The Last Hawk (Saga of the Skolian Empire Book 2)

Pilot Kelric Valdoria crash-lands his Jag starfighter on Coba after a Trader squad damages his ship during battle. Though his military has designated Coba as Restricted, Kelric initially sees no justification for isolating what appears to be a peaceful world. While recovering, Kelric attracts the attention of powerful women in Coba's matriarchal society, including Deha Dahl, an Estate Manager, and Ixpar Karn, the chosen successor of the Minister. He gradually discovers that Coba's Restricted status was the planet's own choice—and its inhabitants cannot allow him to leave. Complications arise when Kelric's internal biomech system begins to fail, affecting his brain function. When his escape attempt results in a guard's death, he faces trial for a crime that could carry a death sentence. His survival depends on gaining the trust of people who both desire and fear him.