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Intersolar Union #6
Alliance
When a human doll knocks on Fásach's door and asks him for help, he's understandably suspicious. He knows better than to trust her, having just watched his guildmates raid the brothel from which she came.
But she says she knows a place where his girls could live without fear. The human colony, Renata. She's never been there, but she has memories she can't explain, and with his help, they can all reach salvation.
The only problem? There's no way Renata will allow a doll into their borders. Not while an invisible war is brewing. They'll need to take drastic steps and rely on each other to make it there in one piece. What's the saying?
Ask for forgiveness.... Not permission.
In Development.
***
The Intersolar Union series is a long-arc action-packed dramatic romance series featuring a different couple in each book (except for Books 1 & 2). Fans of Mass Effect will love this series!
While previous books could be read out of order, I do not recommend reading books 5 onward out of order.
Books 3 onward contain dark themes. Features explicit adult scenes - mature readers only. All of my books are HEA, no cheating.
But she says she knows a place where his girls could live without fear. The human colony, Renata. She's never been there, but she has memories she can't explain, and with his help, they can all reach salvation.
The only problem? There's no way Renata will allow a doll into their borders. Not while an invisible war is brewing. They'll need to take drastic steps and rely on each other to make it there in one piece. What's the saying?
Ask for forgiveness.... Not permission.
In Development.
***
The Intersolar Union series is a long-arc action-packed dramatic romance series featuring a different couple in each book (except for Books 1 & 2). Fans of Mass Effect will love this series!
While previous books could be read out of order, I do not recommend reading books 5 onward out of order.
Books 3 onward contain dark themes. Features explicit adult scenes - mature readers only. All of my books are HEA, no cheating.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2024
56 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Etta Pierce
16 books314 followersI'm a hopeless academic and science fiction romance author. I write intelligent women, complicated men, and slow burn steam! My first series, the Intersolar Union Series, is ongoing with many more series and books planned for the future. Strap in for the long haul, guys, I'm here to stay and crank out some good romantic fiction!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
January 6, 2026
4✨
2.5🌶️
🩵Sci-fi alien romance
🩵Standalone romance in interconnected series
🩵Human “doll” FMC x alien MMC
🩵Single dad/guardian
🩵Sentience, autonomy, identity – what does it mean to be “human”?
🩵Ask for forgiveness, not permission
🩵Consent king MMC
🩵Travel partners to friends to lovers
🩵Rutting/mating heat
Alliance by Etta Pierce is the sixth book in the Intersolar Union series and follows Roz-02, a newly sentient human “doll” on the run from captivity, and Fásach, a guarded Yiwren alien searching for a more settled and safe life for himself and the two children under his care. Realizing they could help each other—Roz with her knowledge of how to reach a safer destination thanks to her originator’s memories, and Fás with his protection and connections—the four of them make their escape.
Roz’s struggle between her original programming, inherited memories, and evolving sense of self serves as a primary source of conflict and tension in the story, and it also influences how secondary characters view and interact with the MCs. “Dolls” seem alien even to aliens, viewed as lesser, insentient, and certainly not human.
But as someone who was also underestimated in his own life, Fás sees her and knows she’s more than code—she’s living. She is human. He recognizes her autonomy and goes above and beyond to protect it, even against his own nature. Because, you see, Fás is in a bit of a rut—literally. As a Yiwren, he goes through natural life cycles in which he leans predator (harder, better, faster, stronger—basically Daft Punk) or prey (leaner, weaker, dormant). And right now, with the dangers they face on their journey, they need a predator.
There are certain ways to trigger this change more quickly, the most significant being a mating rut. Fás knows Roz would agree to it, given the delicate friendship that has blossomed between them and her willingness to help. However, he refuses to compromise Roz’s autonomy—particularly her bodily autonomy, given her past treatment. Even at his most desperate, Fás does not waver, fighting against his own instincts.
When it finally happens, it feels as though Roz and Fás truly choose each other—and would always choose each other, regardless of circumstance. Alliance is, at its core, a romance, with the budding connection between Roz and Fás at its heart. But Pierce isn’t afraid to set that romance against heavier themes, including trauma and existential questioning.
I’m loving every direction Pierce takes this Intersolar Union series. The beginning of Alliance did feel a bit technically heavy and immediately thrust the reader into an uncomfortable situation. As the story progresses, however, the relationship between Roz and Fás—and their individual struggles—becomes more intimate, allowing readers to see how their alliance truly unfolds. Pierce is exceptionally skilled at weaving the title of each book into its central themes, and Alliance is no exception.
Pierce continues to create rich alien worldbuilding that is interesting, unique, and almost addictive. I love this series so, so much.
2.5🌶️
🩵Sci-fi alien romance
🩵Standalone romance in interconnected series
🩵Human “doll” FMC x alien MMC
🩵Single dad/guardian
🩵Sentience, autonomy, identity – what does it mean to be “human”?
🩵Ask for forgiveness, not permission
🩵Consent king MMC
🩵Travel partners to friends to lovers
🩵Rutting/mating heat
Alliance by Etta Pierce is the sixth book in the Intersolar Union series and follows Roz-02, a newly sentient human “doll” on the run from captivity, and Fásach, a guarded Yiwren alien searching for a more settled and safe life for himself and the two children under his care. Realizing they could help each other—Roz with her knowledge of how to reach a safer destination thanks to her originator’s memories, and Fás with his protection and connections—the four of them make their escape.
Roz’s struggle between her original programming, inherited memories, and evolving sense of self serves as a primary source of conflict and tension in the story, and it also influences how secondary characters view and interact with the MCs. “Dolls” seem alien even to aliens, viewed as lesser, insentient, and certainly not human.
But as someone who was also underestimated in his own life, Fás sees her and knows she’s more than code—she’s living. She is human. He recognizes her autonomy and goes above and beyond to protect it, even against his own nature. Because, you see, Fás is in a bit of a rut—literally. As a Yiwren, he goes through natural life cycles in which he leans predator (harder, better, faster, stronger—basically Daft Punk) or prey (leaner, weaker, dormant). And right now, with the dangers they face on their journey, they need a predator.
There are certain ways to trigger this change more quickly, the most significant being a mating rut. Fás knows Roz would agree to it, given the delicate friendship that has blossomed between them and her willingness to help. However, he refuses to compromise Roz’s autonomy—particularly her bodily autonomy, given her past treatment. Even at his most desperate, Fás does not waver, fighting against his own instincts.
When it finally happens, it feels as though Roz and Fás truly choose each other—and would always choose each other, regardless of circumstance. Alliance is, at its core, a romance, with the budding connection between Roz and Fás at its heart. But Pierce isn’t afraid to set that romance against heavier themes, including trauma and existential questioning.
I’m loving every direction Pierce takes this Intersolar Union series. The beginning of Alliance did feel a bit technically heavy and immediately thrust the reader into an uncomfortable situation. As the story progresses, however, the relationship between Roz and Fás—and their individual struggles—becomes more intimate, allowing readers to see how their alliance truly unfolds. Pierce is exceptionally skilled at weaving the title of each book into its central themes, and Alliance is no exception.
Pierce continues to create rich alien worldbuilding that is interesting, unique, and almost addictive. I love this series so, so much.
July 15, 2024
Another excellent book in a well done series.
July 8, 2024
3.25 stars | super well written, I just didn’t feel connected to these characters the way I have to the others in the series. Plot was a bit anticlimactic and MC’s seemed like they were only together because Fas was the first dude she met and they were both lonely.
June 20, 2024
I had to read this whole book today because OMG this writing always sucks me in. Every character in this series is complex and has some sort of trauma that impacts how the interact with the world around them. Roz’ trauma was different, because it was layered with Rosy’s trauma and her first experiences upon “waking”. I was a little unsure how the book would tie up in the end, but I thought it was a solid conclusion to this particular story
Roz was a curious mix of innocent and jaded; constantly second guessing what was her. I LOVED that she was android-y because I almost never see a female droid-like character. Fásach was such a cinnamon roll consent king dealing with some…. biological urges in such a respectful way. He encouraged Roz to be selfish and was always ready to reassure her that she was not just a doll. She was just as protective of him and brought him all the comfort that she could when he needed it. Fás is an absolute dream boat and I NEED him!
Also, the huhuhuh sound he makes? I love it. I was so confused the first few times it said “war chuckle” because he wasn’t laughing 😆
I already want the next book, but perfection like this takes time and all that.
But imma still be a lil grouchy that I don’t already have Marcella’s, Sizzle’s, or whatever character comes next’s book.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: Sexual harassment against the FMC, SA of FMC (brief, has some flashbacks), Objectification of FMC, Burns, Bullying of the MMC, Undocumented immigration, Suicidal thoughts and actions, Questions self and identity, Resistance to self and identity, Medical sterilization (prior to story), Visual and aural hallucinations, Post-traumatic stress symptoms, Vivisection, Lethal violence, Death of a parent (hallucinations), Death, Gore, Hypothermia
Roz was a curious mix of innocent and jaded; constantly second guessing what was her. I LOVED that she was android-y because I almost never see a female droid-like character. Fásach was such a cinnamon roll consent king dealing with some…. biological urges in such a respectful way. He encouraged Roz to be selfish and was always ready to reassure her that she was not just a doll. She was just as protective of him and brought him all the comfort that she could when he needed it. Fás is an absolute dream boat and I NEED him!
Also, the huhuhuh sound he makes? I love it. I was so confused the first few times it said “war chuckle” because he wasn’t laughing 😆
I already want the next book, but perfection like this takes time and all that.
But imma still be a lil grouchy that I don’t already have Marcella’s, Sizzle’s, or whatever character comes next’s book.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: Sexual harassment against the FMC, SA of FMC (brief, has some flashbacks), Objectification of FMC, Burns, Bullying of the MMC, Undocumented immigration, Suicidal thoughts and actions, Questions self and identity, Resistance to self and identity, Medical sterilization (prior to story), Visual and aural hallucinations, Post-traumatic stress symptoms, Vivisection, Lethal violence, Death of a parent (hallucinations), Death, Gore, Hypothermia
July 27, 2025
ALLIANCE brought something really fun and different to the INTERSOLAR UNION series and I loved the exploration of Roz's humanity and what truly makes us human. After the revelations of the previous book I was curious to see what would happen now that there's a doll with living code (basically a clone) and Etta Pierce did not disappoint! I adored Roz's fight and determination, the way she was excited about each new experience, and the way she gently fell for Fásach.
As much as I loved Roz, I equally loved Fásach and it was so awesome to learn about another alien species in this world that Pierce has created. I think the Yiwren might be one of my favorite species after the Venandi and I loved all the little chirps, growls, yips were so cute. And the way Fásach was just so obsessed with Roz -- the whining, begging, and cuddling -- had me swooning! I just loved these two together and their chemistry was amazing.
Because this book took place mostly off of Yaspur its tightly focused on Roz and Fásach's story but we also got some POV chapters about Roav and Jharim and wow, talk about some surprises! I don't know where that plot line will go in future books but I definitely want to know more.
Content Warning: brief sexual assault of FMC (not by MMC); references to human trafficking
As much as I loved Roz, I equally loved Fásach and it was so awesome to learn about another alien species in this world that Pierce has created. I think the Yiwren might be one of my favorite species after the Venandi and I loved all the little chirps, growls, yips were so cute. And the way Fásach was just so obsessed with Roz -- the whining, begging, and cuddling -- had me swooning! I just loved these two together and their chemistry was amazing.
Because this book took place mostly off of Yaspur its tightly focused on Roz and Fásach's story but we also got some POV chapters about Roav and Jharim and wow, talk about some surprises! I don't know where that plot line will go in future books but I definitely want to know more.
Content Warning: brief sexual assault of FMC (not by MMC); references to human trafficking
July 28, 2024
This series is one of the best sci fi romance reads out there. Next installment is already preordered.
Plot and worldbuilding are complex and keep getting more interesting.
The romance is great. The MMC is not human and you won't forget it, unlike MANY sci fi romances.
Well-written and edited.
I can't speak for the accuracy of the diversity representation, but it is clear to me that it is done with the intentions of inclusion and respect.
Plot and worldbuilding are complex and keep getting more interesting.
The romance is great. The MMC is not human and you won't forget it, unlike MANY sci fi romances.
Well-written and edited.
I can't speak for the accuracy of the diversity representation, but it is clear to me that it is done with the intentions of inclusion and respect.
June 23, 2024
Another amazing book in this series! I loved that we got to see glimpses of some of my favorite characters (Sizzle!). Alliance definitely has a foreboding vibe to it. As the FMC (Roz) and the MMC (Fásach) go on their journey to Renata, you get a sense of impending doom. Or like something **big** is about to happen. I loved Fásach! He was just the right amount of territorial and possessive while still respecting Roz's autonomy and boundaries. I liked that he helped her explore her humanity and discover who she really was. He helped her separate herself from her originator, Rosy. I thought her body's adjustments were really interesting and unique also, as she became less Doll and more human.
Also, for yall smut sluts out there (me included), we are blessed with a messy face sitting scene after he chased her through the woods, fucked her, and came inside her 😇
Fásach is hungry for Roz in the best type of way and I'm loving it!
Can't end this without mentioning Sizzle again. Really looking forward to his book, Quit Your Waning! He is such a unique character and I'm really excited to see what's next!
Also, for yall smut sluts out there (me included), we are blessed with a messy face sitting scene after he chased her through the woods, fucked her, and came inside her 😇
Fásach is hungry for Roz in the best type of way and I'm loving it!
Can't end this without mentioning Sizzle again. Really looking forward to his book, Quit Your Waning! He is such a unique character and I'm really excited to see what's next!
July 21, 2024
The way Pierce writes this complicated society with intricate species living and interacting is awe inspiring. If these weren’t sexy romances, I think they’d get a lot of love from the sci fi world, but I am so glad they are sexy romances because some of us like BOTH and it is fantastic when a writer is this good at what they do. This whole series is fantastic.
July 4, 2024
Immaculate. Incredibly epic and the sci-fi is so good. If you like alien MMCs who look alien, competent FMCs in the 30ish age range, in depth world building, slow burn romance, emotionally intimate spice, that’s tied up very nicely with beautifully created sci-fi grounded in real world science that’s immersive and believable, this is the series.
What happens when living genetic code merges with synthetic designed to mimic the real thing? What happens when the coding for that merger is interrupted opening the door for liberation?
Fás is a charming blend of romantic and feral who respects Roz as an individual with free will instead of the object she was created to be. Character and relationship development are exceptional, particularly character. Roz navigating what is her coding and what is free will is quite masterfully done. Meanwhile Fás is doing his own navigating, trying to move from his prey state to predator to ensure their survival. There’s a very tangible sense of foreboding throughout that heightens every decision, every interaction. I was truly on the edge of my seat the entire book. Excited for the next installment and more reveals.
What happens when living genetic code merges with synthetic designed to mimic the real thing? What happens when the coding for that merger is interrupted opening the door for liberation?
Fás is a charming blend of romantic and feral who respects Roz as an individual with free will instead of the object she was created to be. Character and relationship development are exceptional, particularly character. Roz navigating what is her coding and what is free will is quite masterfully done. Meanwhile Fás is doing his own navigating, trying to move from his prey state to predator to ensure their survival. There’s a very tangible sense of foreboding throughout that heightens every decision, every interaction. I was truly on the edge of my seat the entire book. Excited for the next installment and more reveals.
June 25, 2024
A heart shattering, all-consuming tale in the phenomenal universe created by Etta Pierce!
This book was the most wanted and long waited and still surprises me how good she is,the minucious care with details, in depht world building and carefull development and diversity of the characters
A pleasure doll that overrided her program,a Yiwren struggling that only wants a futur for his daughters,a connection that defies reason,lots of secrets, action packed and the brilliant touch of Ms Pierce makes this book an absolute MUST READ!!!
This book was the most wanted and long waited and still surprises me how good she is,the minucious care with details, in depht world building and carefull development and diversity of the characters
A pleasure doll that overrided her program,a Yiwren struggling that only wants a futur for his daughters,a connection that defies reason,lots of secrets, action packed and the brilliant touch of Ms Pierce makes this book an absolute MUST READ!!!
July 8, 2024
Fasach might top Sizzle for my favorite.
The chase scene? Perfection.
The consent-seeking? Perfection.
The care for her needs and SIMULTEANEOUS desire to use her in the most delicious of feral ways? Unf.
Getting into the doll's mind is delightful. I loved the way her struggles to process her newfound humanity are portrayed. The way she struggles to define what is HER and what is preprogrammed by others feels -incredibly- relatable as someone who has to work to untangle similar threads for different reasons. What's mine? What's been artificially applied to me in a bid to make me acceptable to society/other particular humans?
I really, really dig. I also am super fascinated by where the story of Renata goes next.
I have yet to encounter a single miss from Etta Pierce. This book is no exception. Choosing a favorite is hard, but this is surging to the top of the pile.
The chase scene? Perfection.
The consent-seeking? Perfection.
The care for her needs and SIMULTEANEOUS desire to use her in the most delicious of feral ways? Unf.
Getting into the doll's mind is delightful. I loved the way her struggles to process her newfound humanity are portrayed. The way she struggles to define what is HER and what is preprogrammed by others feels -incredibly- relatable as someone who has to work to untangle similar threads for different reasons. What's mine? What's been artificially applied to me in a bid to make me acceptable to society/other particular humans?
I really, really dig. I also am super fascinated by where the story of Renata goes next.
I have yet to encounter a single miss from Etta Pierce. This book is no exception. Choosing a favorite is hard, but this is surging to the top of the pile.
July 5, 2024
I devoured this book! Pierce's writing always sucks me in and keeps the pages turning.
This is the 6th book in the series so I do recommend reading the previous books if you haven't but it isn't required.
This book was full of mystery, I saw another review that mentioned a foreboding vibe and I couldn't agree more. Roz, a human doll, finds herself stranded, alone, and in need of help. When she crosses paths with Fásach she convinces him to help her get to the human colony, Renata.
I love that we're able to follow Roz and Fásach on their dangerous journey. Along the way Roz has to reconcile the memories she has that aren't hers with who she is and wants to be. Fásach has to find a way to become stronger without feeling like he's taking advantage of Roz.
For me Fásach was my absolute favorite, I feel like I haven't met an alien with such a tender heart in a long time. Even with his faults he's a stand up Yiwren and it comes through loud and clear. I also really enjoyed Roz's self exploration, I've read stories with clones and androids but this one really takes the introspection to another level in my opinion. I adored the relationship that buds between Fásach and Roz. They might be my favorite couple of the series. My one gripe is a personal one, which is that I would've loved an ending with Roz and Fásach having a nice boring day together, spoiler, that doesn't happen. But maybe we can get a R&F novella in the future? A girl can dream.
I highly recommend this book. It was such a satisfying read. Thank you to Etta Pierce for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I loved this book.
This is the 6th book in the series so I do recommend reading the previous books if you haven't but it isn't required.
This book was full of mystery, I saw another review that mentioned a foreboding vibe and I couldn't agree more. Roz, a human doll, finds herself stranded, alone, and in need of help. When she crosses paths with Fásach she convinces him to help her get to the human colony, Renata.
I love that we're able to follow Roz and Fásach on their dangerous journey. Along the way Roz has to reconcile the memories she has that aren't hers with who she is and wants to be. Fásach has to find a way to become stronger without feeling like he's taking advantage of Roz.
For me Fásach was my absolute favorite, I feel like I haven't met an alien with such a tender heart in a long time. Even with his faults he's a stand up Yiwren and it comes through loud and clear. I also really enjoyed Roz's self exploration, I've read stories with clones and androids but this one really takes the introspection to another level in my opinion. I adored the relationship that buds between Fásach and Roz. They might be my favorite couple of the series. My one gripe is a personal one, which is that I would've loved an ending with Roz and Fásach having a nice boring day together, spoiler, that doesn't happen. But maybe we can get a R&F novella in the future? A girl can dream.
I highly recommend this book. It was such a satisfying read. Thank you to Etta Pierce for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I loved this book.
June 26, 2024
I’ll be blunt that I expected to not enjoy this read as the previous books since I wasn’t particularly interested in Rosy as a character. However, I was intrigued to learn more about Fas and about Yiwrens.
Somehow within the first chapter I was wondering over and hooked. I thoroughly enjoyed the narrative style of Roz’s mental and cognitive processes and the rest of the book made it so natural to visualize what was happening.
Pros:
*Etta’s writing! These books have the right amount of detail that is fitting to be immersed without being overwhelmed with descriptions
* Existing and new Characters motivations and decisions were consistent
* We finally get to peek into the guild
* Distinct narratives between the mfc and mmc from the previous books. Their personalities were not recycled characters, they read as genuine.
* Nuances of details adding the binary for the bogs language, I was more than happy to slap that binary into a translator and delighted to see what was underneath
* Unapologetically adding in non English languages and not needing to explain. We live in a technological world that it’s easy for us to quickly translate on a kindle or Google translate.
Cons:
It’s not really a con, I think the end goal paced a bit too quickly for me with all the build up. Im probably being selfish because wanted more lol. But the ending was still reasonable and readers should have closure.
I received an ARC copy. I recommend this book as a fitting continuation to the series.
Somehow within the first chapter I was wondering over and hooked. I thoroughly enjoyed the narrative style of Roz’s mental and cognitive processes and the rest of the book made it so natural to visualize what was happening.
Pros:
*Etta’s writing! These books have the right amount of detail that is fitting to be immersed without being overwhelmed with descriptions
* Existing and new Characters motivations and decisions were consistent
* We finally get to peek into the guild
* Distinct narratives between the mfc and mmc from the previous books. Their personalities were not recycled characters, they read as genuine.
* Nuances of details adding the binary for the bogs language, I was more than happy to slap that binary into a translator and delighted to see what was underneath
* Unapologetically adding in non English languages and not needing to explain. We live in a technological world that it’s easy for us to quickly translate on a kindle or Google translate.
Cons:
It’s not really a con, I think the end goal paced a bit too quickly for me with all the build up. Im probably being selfish because wanted more lol. But the ending was still reasonable and readers should have closure.
I received an ARC copy. I recommend this book as a fitting continuation to the series.
June 27, 2024
As with every other book by Etta, I loved it so much. It becomes increasingly difficult to pick a favorite. This one just felt so deep and really made you think, in my opinion. The FMC, Roz, is a "doll" but she isn't like other dolls because while she was plugged in something happens to her that causes her to break I guess you could say. By "breaking" she has free will, wants, thoughts, and desires of her own. At the same time she has memories from the human she was made from. She spends a lot of the book going through the emotions of the woman she was made from and her own. What she was made for and what she wants. What her true feelings are and what she was programmed to do. I found it to be incredibly emotional and impactful.
The MMC, Fás, was a dreamboat and really helped Roz understand who she is. He was so incredibly supportive and never once questioned or doubted her in anyway. He was constantly thinking of HER feelings, HER wants before his own, all while protecting his daughters. He was a delicious cinnamon roll. The slow burn, as per usual was so incredibly worth it and the chase scenes made me scream into a pillow. If you didn't know Fás is very much an Alien inspired by Hyenas. How unique is that?
The ending wrapped up in a beautiful little bow and I truly didn't want it to end. Waiting for book 7 is going to make me lose my mind.
The MMC, Fás, was a dreamboat and really helped Roz understand who she is. He was so incredibly supportive and never once questioned or doubted her in anyway. He was constantly thinking of HER feelings, HER wants before his own, all while protecting his daughters. He was a delicious cinnamon roll. The slow burn, as per usual was so incredibly worth it and the chase scenes made me scream into a pillow. If you didn't know Fás is very much an Alien inspired by Hyenas. How unique is that?
The ending wrapped up in a beautiful little bow and I truly didn't want it to end. Waiting for book 7 is going to make me lose my mind.
September 7, 2025
This was a very good book. Definitely read it. And this entire series. The end.
Also, this was my favorite of the series so far.
Also, this was my favorite of the series so far.
May 26, 2025
Not my favorite, even though I love this series as a whole.
The chemistry was way off for most of this book between the mc’s. I liked the mmc. But the pining was all one-way for over half of the book.
This is why I don’t like AI fmc. Some might say it’s a cool thing to have it be different, because usually it’s the mmc that’s the AI.
If I have to put words to it… I would say it’s because the fmc AI was a sex robot initially. When the mmc is the AI, the stories usually have him as a soldier or a medic or something. Most of the time. (I know Kathryn Moon wrote a book with male sex bot reverse-harem, but I didn’t care for that either.)
Just seems like as another reviewer said- that they got together because they were just both lonely. She didn’t love him, she just craved safety. Then her reaction to him wanting to rut with her was a kind of ditzy “okie-dokie!” attitude. Just like a good sex bot!
It was difficult to follow the story line in several spots. I’m glad I got through it, but man I wanted to dnf so bad.
The chemistry was way off for most of this book between the mc’s. I liked the mmc. But the pining was all one-way for over half of the book.
This is why I don’t like AI fmc. Some might say it’s a cool thing to have it be different, because usually it’s the mmc that’s the AI.
If I have to put words to it… I would say it’s because the fmc AI was a sex robot initially. When the mmc is the AI, the stories usually have him as a soldier or a medic or something. Most of the time. (I know Kathryn Moon wrote a book with male sex bot reverse-harem, but I didn’t care for that either.)
Just seems like as another reviewer said- that they got together because they were just both lonely. She didn’t love him, she just craved safety. Then her reaction to him wanting to rut with her was a kind of ditzy “okie-dokie!” attitude. Just like a good sex bot!
It was difficult to follow the story line in several spots. I’m glad I got through it, but man I wanted to dnf so bad.
July 19, 2024
Alliance takes us back to the scorching planet Huajile, away from the established human settlement, Renata on Yaspur. We briefly met Fásach in the previous novel, a friend of Vin. He is a Yiwren, a minority alien and the only other mammalian species introduced so far outside of humans. I was excited to see a new species up close! The change was refreshing and prevents the overarching romantic pairing theme from going stale, though I think the story itself prevents it 😉 Sweet, desperate drug-running Fás is a new father to the two adopted daughters of his old guild partner and only wants to provide them with safety and security. Running into an illegally cloned human sex doll does NOT fit into his plans, until innocent ROZ-02 makes a promise he can't afford (literally) to say no to.
ROZ-02 was created for one purpose - for others' pleasure. Except she was created differently than all the others, the first with living genetic code. ROZ-02 sustains significant damage that gives her the ability to override her submissive coding. ROZ-02 is now Roz, armed with Rosa's memories of the safe haven Renata, and is determined to discover a new purpose and what it means to be a human in a doll's body.
I loved this novel. It mostly takes place in the wilds of Yaspur, so there are not many interactions shown between Roz and other humans. Learning about the Yiwren was so fun; the duology between being able to switch between being prey/predator-fluid was an excellent evolutionary trait to add to the species as a whole and reflected a lot about Fás's character, especially his being a CONSENT KING 👑👐 Yiwren are like a mix of a carnivore with some defining deer-like traits. Wild, I loved reading about Fás's transition to the more aggresive fluid state. I also enjoyed how Fas was so excited to experience being around another mammal and doing communal bonding activities, like grooming and cuddling!
Roz is a sweetheart, honest and inquisitive. After arriving on Yaspur with Fas and his daughters, Roz senses a forbidding wrongness the closer they get to the settlement. Something sinister calls, as Roz struggles to maintain her ability to still be HER after the terrifying blackouts that take control over her body. Roz knows she must keep her promise, even if it means she has to give up her one chance of truly being "real" on this side of the galaxy.
This novel portrayed Roz's android-like mind, its thought evolution, and insecurities so well. The descriptions given by Roz slightly changed over time, which allows the reader to start off through her "newly born" eyes and grow with Roz as she etches out her own humanity. We get more mind-boggling info on the scandalous biognostics duo back at Renata in this book, which only leads to more intrigue behind their sinister actions in book 5...and hope for Roz.
ROZ-02 was created for one purpose - for others' pleasure. Except she was created differently than all the others, the first with living genetic code. ROZ-02 sustains significant damage that gives her the ability to override her submissive coding. ROZ-02 is now Roz, armed with Rosa's memories of the safe haven Renata, and is determined to discover a new purpose and what it means to be a human in a doll's body.
I loved this novel. It mostly takes place in the wilds of Yaspur, so there are not many interactions shown between Roz and other humans. Learning about the Yiwren was so fun; the duology between being able to switch between being prey/predator-fluid was an excellent evolutionary trait to add to the species as a whole and reflected a lot about Fás's character, especially his being a CONSENT KING 👑👐 Yiwren are like a mix of a carnivore with some defining deer-like traits. Wild, I loved reading about Fás's transition to the more aggresive fluid state. I also enjoyed how Fas was so excited to experience being around another mammal and doing communal bonding activities, like grooming and cuddling!
Roz is a sweetheart, honest and inquisitive. After arriving on Yaspur with Fas and his daughters, Roz senses a forbidding wrongness the closer they get to the settlement. Something sinister calls, as Roz struggles to maintain her ability to still be HER after the terrifying blackouts that take control over her body. Roz knows she must keep her promise, even if it means she has to give up her one chance of truly being "real" on this side of the galaxy.
This novel portrayed Roz's android-like mind, its thought evolution, and insecurities so well. The descriptions given by Roz slightly changed over time, which allows the reader to start off through her "newly born" eyes and grow with Roz as she etches out her own humanity. We get more mind-boggling info on the scandalous biognostics duo back at Renata in this book, which only leads to more intrigue behind their sinister actions in book 5...and hope for Roz.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2025
ehhh idk why this one didn't work for me :/ maybe it took until this point in my binge reading of the series to be tired of it *shrugs*
It is a really interesting concept though and I'm looking forward to the next addition ^_^
It is a really interesting concept though and I'm looking forward to the next addition ^_^
July 9, 2024
Loved it!
🫶 This book was hot (we had primal and switch Dom/sub dynamics)
🫶 The twisty overarching plot of the series just got dialed up to a 100 (seriously, what is happening? Who are even the bad guys?? Things are getting so intense)
🫶 And I love an arctic survival story
But mostly, how this book approached Dom/sub sexy times was so cool—that I can’t stop thinking about it.
Here’s the setup: our heroine Roz was a human sex doll. Literally, a robot (that’s just cool all by itself). And our hero Fásach was an alien whose species is prey-predator fluid, their bodies transforming based on their role.
And the plot of the story needed him change from Prey Daddy to Predator Daddy in order for them to survive. Cue the delightfully campy ‘we need to bone in order to live’ trope.
But do you know what this book *did not* do? Buy into any of the “strong = dominant = man = good / weak = submissive = woman = bad” nonsense.
Because for Roz, advanced illegal “living code” technology (plus an accident) meant that she had autonomy and selfhood. Being willful felt reassuring—following orders, on the other hand, took enormous strength of character. And for Fásach, prey and predator were both himself, neither one stronger or better than the other.
I can’t wait for the next book. I need answers!
🫶 This book was hot (we had primal and switch Dom/sub dynamics)
🫶 The twisty overarching plot of the series just got dialed up to a 100 (seriously, what is happening? Who are even the bad guys?? Things are getting so intense)
🫶 And I love an arctic survival story
But mostly, how this book approached Dom/sub sexy times was so cool—that I can’t stop thinking about it.
Here’s the setup: our heroine Roz was a human sex doll. Literally, a robot (that’s just cool all by itself). And our hero Fásach was an alien whose species is prey-predator fluid, their bodies transforming based on their role.
And the plot of the story needed him change from Prey Daddy to Predator Daddy in order for them to survive. Cue the delightfully campy ‘we need to bone in order to live’ trope.
But do you know what this book *did not* do? Buy into any of the “strong = dominant = man = good / weak = submissive = woman = bad” nonsense.
Because for Roz, advanced illegal “living code” technology (plus an accident) meant that she had autonomy and selfhood. Being willful felt reassuring—following orders, on the other hand, took enormous strength of character. And for Fásach, prey and predator were both himself, neither one stronger or better than the other.
I can’t wait for the next book. I need answers!
October 15, 2024
I was super pumped for this next installment in the Intersolar series! Loved the previous books.
Roz, an escaped robot doll, seeks out the help of yiwren (kind of a deer + hyena combo that was a fun mix of scary and cuddly) refugee Fasach to find a safe place to call home and start a new life. Made from “living code”, Roz wrestles with it means to have her own mind, but be programmed to please others. Fas fights to transition from prey to predator and protect his family and new traveling companion.
It took me a little bit to get into this one, probably due to the layers of disorientation right at the beginning. Between our first person narrator waking up disoriented herself and then the reader having to quickly learn the histories/cultures/vocabulary for two new specifies (we’ve seen lots of the two main races - the Shilpakaari and Venandi - at this point), it was a lot to sort through mentally. However, once the story got rolling, it was super entertaining! Pierce took us on a unique, new adventure while weaving in the threads that connect the series as a whole. Plenty of suspense, action, betrayals, triumphs, growth, and visits from our favorite characters. She is a master storyteller!
If you like sci-fi romance, I wholeheartedly recommend this series. Definitely worth a read.
Many thanks to Etta for providing an advanced copy of the book in exchange for my honest thoughts!
Roz, an escaped robot doll, seeks out the help of yiwren (kind of a deer + hyena combo that was a fun mix of scary and cuddly) refugee Fasach to find a safe place to call home and start a new life. Made from “living code”, Roz wrestles with it means to have her own mind, but be programmed to please others. Fas fights to transition from prey to predator and protect his family and new traveling companion.
It took me a little bit to get into this one, probably due to the layers of disorientation right at the beginning. Between our first person narrator waking up disoriented herself and then the reader having to quickly learn the histories/cultures/vocabulary for two new specifies (we’ve seen lots of the two main races - the Shilpakaari and Venandi - at this point), it was a lot to sort through mentally. However, once the story got rolling, it was super entertaining! Pierce took us on a unique, new adventure while weaving in the threads that connect the series as a whole. Plenty of suspense, action, betrayals, triumphs, growth, and visits from our favorite characters. She is a master storyteller!
If you like sci-fi romance, I wholeheartedly recommend this series. Definitely worth a read.
Many thanks to Etta for providing an advanced copy of the book in exchange for my honest thoughts!
August 4, 2025
3.75 ⭐/ 2 🌶️-Did I really enjoy this? Yes. Did some of the plot or worldbuilding not make sense? Also yes. Pierce didn't really indicate (and she hadn't in the previous books) what the difference was between a clone and a doll. There is a subplot related to coding that never gets a proper explanation. However, if you ignore these issues, there is a lot of entertainment value in this book. I am not a huge fan of the Born Sexy Yesterday trope, so this wasn’t my favorite in the series.
August 2, 2025
Good series.
July 2, 2024
4.5 stars. Roz, the female lead, is a synthetic entity created to be a slave/toy for others. But her body has managed to get a hold of “living code” and she’s no longer the functional robot she was supposed to be. She has preferences and she can make some choices. When her world explodes as she’s about to be directed to her first “client”, she survives because she’s been given a symbiote that works to heal her. Trying to work out what to do, she runs into Fasach, the male lead.
Fasach is an alien species that changes body shape and skill depending on need. Currently the parent to his deceased partner’s daughters, he’s in a weaker physical state than he’s been at other points in his life. Desperate to keep his daughters safe, he tries to push Roz away when he encounters her but compassion, and the fact that she believes she can get them safely to the human colony he knows exists, means he offers for her to travel with his family.
As they head out, they encounter others who only see the robot that Roz was made as, not the person she’s become, which causes a certain amount of friction. Then there’s the natural barriers of the physical world that the human colony is on, plus the attraction to Roz that Fasach feels guilty over and is ignoring, and maybe there’s something sinister hidden in Roz’s coding…
This long story is mostly lead character dual POV, with female lead in first person and male lead in third - a little unusual but makes discerning perspective change easy - with a few chapters from other perspectives to provide insight the lead characters can’t have. It is well written, and a complex, detailed sci fi romance that continues the series by this author - she clearly states that books 5 on must be read in order, even though there is an introduction at the beginning of the story. I enjoyed the fact that both these characters were “normal”; both of low socioeconomic status, Fasach a single parent struggling to provide for his children. Neither was a hero to the world or critical to anything but each other and the children, and I really appreciated that. I enjoyed Roz’s struggle to discover herself and to discern where she was separating from her original coding. I enjoyed Fasach’s consent focus and his determination to ensure that Roz was not pressured to make choices she didn’t want. I enjoyed the intertwined character and relationship development. I appreciated the ending for these characters and am looking forward to more in this series.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Fasach is an alien species that changes body shape and skill depending on need. Currently the parent to his deceased partner’s daughters, he’s in a weaker physical state than he’s been at other points in his life. Desperate to keep his daughters safe, he tries to push Roz away when he encounters her but compassion, and the fact that she believes she can get them safely to the human colony he knows exists, means he offers for her to travel with his family.
As they head out, they encounter others who only see the robot that Roz was made as, not the person she’s become, which causes a certain amount of friction. Then there’s the natural barriers of the physical world that the human colony is on, plus the attraction to Roz that Fasach feels guilty over and is ignoring, and maybe there’s something sinister hidden in Roz’s coding…
This long story is mostly lead character dual POV, with female lead in first person and male lead in third - a little unusual but makes discerning perspective change easy - with a few chapters from other perspectives to provide insight the lead characters can’t have. It is well written, and a complex, detailed sci fi romance that continues the series by this author - she clearly states that books 5 on must be read in order, even though there is an introduction at the beginning of the story. I enjoyed the fact that both these characters were “normal”; both of low socioeconomic status, Fasach a single parent struggling to provide for his children. Neither was a hero to the world or critical to anything but each other and the children, and I really appreciated that. I enjoyed Roz’s struggle to discover herself and to discern where she was separating from her original coding. I enjoyed Fasach’s consent focus and his determination to ensure that Roz was not pressured to make choices she didn’t want. I enjoyed the intertwined character and relationship development. I appreciated the ending for these characters and am looking forward to more in this series.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
June 23, 2024
Series: Intersolar Union #6
Rating: 5 stars - I loved it!
When Roz survives the destruction of the Concord and ends up with the memories of her creator, she knows she needs to find Imani James and the human colony Renata. To get there though she needs the help of Vin’s guildmate Fásach. But will Renata allow a human doll into their colony?
This was an emotional story that I couldn’t put down. From the beginning Roz and Fásach's story hooked me and I spent the day devouring their book. Roz is a human doll created with living code but when her creator is killed she gains her memories. Roz spends a lot of time struggling with who she is and if she is even her own person because of the code that originally controlled her. Roz’ story is so different from the others in this series because of this and presents a whole new look at clones and biognostic’s.
Fásach was such a sweetheart and I loved him from the very beginning. He is the adoptive father to two little girls and is determined to give them a better life. While initially he planned not to help Roz, he quickly changes his mind and works to help her become herself. I loved that he taught her about consent and never pushed his needs on her. He let her set the pace and waited until she understood everything about a Yiwren before even hinting that he wanted her. I adored Fásach and his determination to protect her. Also his transformation was fascinating and I loved learning about it since this is the first book about Yiwrens.
This story was very emotional and intense. Fásach and Roz’s relationship was beautifully written and I love how they grew as a couple as the book went on. I also loved how protective they were of each other and how they would comfort each other. Fásach was just the perfect partner for Roz and I can’t wait to see more of these two in the future.
Overall, this was a fantastic addition to the series and I can’t wait to see what will happen next. There is so much going on that I never know what is going to happen next.
TW: sexual assault and harassments; objectification of FMC; burns; bullying of MMC; undocumented immigration; suicidal thoughts and actions; visual and aural hallucinations; hypothermia; PTSD; vivisection; violence and death; death of a parent mentioned;
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
Rating: 5 stars - I loved it!
When Roz survives the destruction of the Concord and ends up with the memories of her creator, she knows she needs to find Imani James and the human colony Renata. To get there though she needs the help of Vin’s guildmate Fásach. But will Renata allow a human doll into their colony?
This was an emotional story that I couldn’t put down. From the beginning Roz and Fásach's story hooked me and I spent the day devouring their book. Roz is a human doll created with living code but when her creator is killed she gains her memories. Roz spends a lot of time struggling with who she is and if she is even her own person because of the code that originally controlled her. Roz’ story is so different from the others in this series because of this and presents a whole new look at clones and biognostic’s.
Fásach was such a sweetheart and I loved him from the very beginning. He is the adoptive father to two little girls and is determined to give them a better life. While initially he planned not to help Roz, he quickly changes his mind and works to help her become herself. I loved that he taught her about consent and never pushed his needs on her. He let her set the pace and waited until she understood everything about a Yiwren before even hinting that he wanted her. I adored Fásach and his determination to protect her. Also his transformation was fascinating and I loved learning about it since this is the first book about Yiwrens.
This story was very emotional and intense. Fásach and Roz’s relationship was beautifully written and I love how they grew as a couple as the book went on. I also loved how protective they were of each other and how they would comfort each other. Fásach was just the perfect partner for Roz and I can’t wait to see more of these two in the future.
Overall, this was a fantastic addition to the series and I can’t wait to see what will happen next. There is so much going on that I never know what is going to happen next.
TW: sexual assault and harassments; objectification of FMC; burns; bullying of MMC; undocumented immigration; suicidal thoughts and actions; visual and aural hallucinations; hypothermia; PTSD; vivisection; violence and death; death of a parent mentioned;
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
July 9, 2024
When I tell you that I loved this book, I MEAN THAT I LOVED THIS BOOK. These two characters just fit so well. I spent the whole first half of the book yelling "NOW KISS."
The whole series (and its spin-off) have been impeccable, but this one is especially darling. I haven’t read many robot/cyborg/doll novels, and will admit that I was a little nervous going into this one because Roz is so NEW, in the most literal sense. Books I’ve previously read with this Pinocchio sentiment of “becoming real” have had bot characters with long lifespans that have had years to become sentient. That’s not the case with Roz, and I was nervous about how it would feel to be in her brain. But I love her, you guys. She’s (pun unintended) a freaking DOLL. Just the very best sunshine character that I’ve read in a long, long time. She sweet without seeming stupid, and seeing her learn the world is simultaneously uplifting and heartbreaking.
And while Fásach is stoic, he’s not the grump that you’d expect to partner such a sunshiney FMC. In fact, he’s incredibly hopeful, caring, and sweet, which is just the prefect counterpart to Roz. Their individual character arcs are so deep and meaningful that it makes it even better when they come together - emotionally AND PHYSICALLY, IF YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN.
I will point out that you should probably read the other books in this series - definitely the one previous, Resistance - before you dive in, or you’re likely to be confused about some of the elements of the overarching plot. You won’t be disappointed though. This is so fun and different from any other sci fi romance series I’ve read. (if you feel like raw-dogging it, there is a recap of the series so far at the beginning of each book.)
Thanks so much to Etta Pierce for the ARC of Alliance! This was an absolute gem and I enjoyed every second of it. Even the seconds when my blood pressure was elevated, and for not fun reasons.
The whole series (and its spin-off) have been impeccable, but this one is especially darling. I haven’t read many robot/cyborg/doll novels, and will admit that I was a little nervous going into this one because Roz is so NEW, in the most literal sense. Books I’ve previously read with this Pinocchio sentiment of “becoming real” have had bot characters with long lifespans that have had years to become sentient. That’s not the case with Roz, and I was nervous about how it would feel to be in her brain. But I love her, you guys. She’s (pun unintended) a freaking DOLL. Just the very best sunshine character that I’ve read in a long, long time. She sweet without seeming stupid, and seeing her learn the world is simultaneously uplifting and heartbreaking.
And while Fásach is stoic, he’s not the grump that you’d expect to partner such a sunshiney FMC. In fact, he’s incredibly hopeful, caring, and sweet, which is just the prefect counterpart to Roz. Their individual character arcs are so deep and meaningful that it makes it even better when they come together - emotionally AND PHYSICALLY, IF YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN.
I will point out that you should probably read the other books in this series - definitely the one previous, Resistance - before you dive in, or you’re likely to be confused about some of the elements of the overarching plot. You won’t be disappointed though. This is so fun and different from any other sci fi romance series I’ve read. (if you feel like raw-dogging it, there is a recap of the series so far at the beginning of each book.)
Thanks so much to Etta Pierce for the ARC of Alliance! This was an absolute gem and I enjoyed every second of it. Even the seconds when my blood pressure was elevated, and for not fun reasons.
July 8, 2024
Surprised me.
Fas and Roz story surprised me. Going into this book I honestly wasn't sure if I was going to like it. I actually stopped and started a couple times before pushing forward.
It was nothing to do with the writing and everything to do with the characters themselves. I didn't feel a strong connection to Fas in the previous book and I didn't like Rosy, for obvi reasons if you read the previous book. I absolutely love Etta Pierce's books and knew to keep going. Hell, I hated Imani but ended up liking her by the end of Resistance. By the end of the book I absolutely loved them both and I even choked up at the end.
Roz is a clone/pleasure bot (doll) with living code inserted that was built to look like a human. When she "wakes" she discovers that she can make decisions on her own and no longer has to follow specific commands. This leads her to find Fas and the whole story takes off from there. It was so interesting to see the "robotic" inquires/commands that Roz has. That was well done. In the beginning I definitely felt she was more "robotic" and as the story progresses you can see how she starts to become more human.
Fas is a Yiwren and an absolute cinnamon roll but also has that primal trait as well. Hello chase scene, yessss. I absolutely loved how he treated Roz and made sure she had choices and he kept reassuring Roz. Especially since Roz was still discovering herself.
Other than the main story (Fas and Roz) the ending definitely left me with more questions. Mainly the scene between Imani and Roz. Also the Bogs.....I was shocked when I found out about Jharim. I need his and Roav story! Also if we can get Travelers story too. He was such an interesting character in such a short amount of "screen" time.
I would definitely recommend this book!
Fas and Roz story surprised me. Going into this book I honestly wasn't sure if I was going to like it. I actually stopped and started a couple times before pushing forward.
It was nothing to do with the writing and everything to do with the characters themselves. I didn't feel a strong connection to Fas in the previous book and I didn't like Rosy, for obvi reasons if you read the previous book. I absolutely love Etta Pierce's books and knew to keep going. Hell, I hated Imani but ended up liking her by the end of Resistance. By the end of the book I absolutely loved them both and I even choked up at the end.
Roz is a clone/pleasure bot (doll) with living code inserted that was built to look like a human. When she "wakes" she discovers that she can make decisions on her own and no longer has to follow specific commands. This leads her to find Fas and the whole story takes off from there. It was so interesting to see the "robotic" inquires/commands that Roz has. That was well done. In the beginning I definitely felt she was more "robotic" and as the story progresses you can see how she starts to become more human.
Fas is a Yiwren and an absolute cinnamon roll but also has that primal trait as well. Hello chase scene, yessss. I absolutely loved how he treated Roz and made sure she had choices and he kept reassuring Roz. Especially since Roz was still discovering herself.
Other than the main story (Fas and Roz) the ending definitely left me with more questions. Mainly the scene between Imani and Roz. Also the Bogs.....I was shocked when I found out about Jharim. I need his and Roav story! Also if we can get Travelers story too. He was such an interesting character in such a short amount of "screen" time.
I would definitely recommend this book!
July 16, 2024
Couldn’t put this book down!
Alliance is the 6th novel in the Interstellar Union (ISU) series by Etta Pierce. This whole series is amazing and just keeps getting better. This book, Alliance, centers around Fasach and Roz-02.
Fasach, the male main character, has been taking care of his partner’s children after her death. Misila and Safia Gaulex. They are very young and a different species from Fasach. Fasach is a Yiwreni who is a hyena-like biped while the girls are Venandi which are bipeds with an exoskeleton and spires. Despite these differences, there is such care that Fasach shows the girls, more especially with all the sacrifices he needs to make to earn funds. He was originally a bouncer/heavy but has had to resort to selling drugs to make ends meet.
Roz-02 is a “human doll” and the female main character. Roz-02 is a doll (think synthetic) who has become sentient and self-aware. She is cloned from a human named Rosalind, who unfortunately is no longer alive. This seems to be the first time a doll has become independent. She escapes her owners and seeks help from Fasach. She is naive and full of sunshine and relies on Fasach for reality checks as well as protection.
The chemistry between Fasach and Roz-02 is off the charts. Fasach treats Roz-02 as a person, not a thing, regardless of any species differences or Roz-02’s doll designation.
No plot spoilers revealed here. The story is fast paced and keeps you engaged. Another few pieces of the ISU universe are revealed. I wholeheartedly recommend Alliance as your next book TBR. It does help if you’ve read the prior books in the series as there are quite a few different species, plot lines and so on that are referenced in this book. I’ve personally read the entire series 3 times, it is *so* good. You won’t be disappointed.
Alliance is the 6th novel in the Interstellar Union (ISU) series by Etta Pierce. This whole series is amazing and just keeps getting better. This book, Alliance, centers around Fasach and Roz-02.
Fasach, the male main character, has been taking care of his partner’s children after her death. Misila and Safia Gaulex. They are very young and a different species from Fasach. Fasach is a Yiwreni who is a hyena-like biped while the girls are Venandi which are bipeds with an exoskeleton and spires. Despite these differences, there is such care that Fasach shows the girls, more especially with all the sacrifices he needs to make to earn funds. He was originally a bouncer/heavy but has had to resort to selling drugs to make ends meet.
Roz-02 is a “human doll” and the female main character. Roz-02 is a doll (think synthetic) who has become sentient and self-aware. She is cloned from a human named Rosalind, who unfortunately is no longer alive. This seems to be the first time a doll has become independent. She escapes her owners and seeks help from Fasach. She is naive and full of sunshine and relies on Fasach for reality checks as well as protection.
The chemistry between Fasach and Roz-02 is off the charts. Fasach treats Roz-02 as a person, not a thing, regardless of any species differences or Roz-02’s doll designation.
No plot spoilers revealed here. The story is fast paced and keeps you engaged. Another few pieces of the ISU universe are revealed. I wholeheartedly recommend Alliance as your next book TBR. It does help if you’ve read the prior books in the series as there are quite a few different species, plot lines and so on that are referenced in this book. I’ve personally read the entire series 3 times, it is *so* good. You won’t be disappointed.
July 11, 2024
Every time I read a novel by Etta Pierce, it becomes my new favorite book.
Alliance is no exception to this, with our 6th venture into the ISU series offering plenty of action to go along with the romance. I was concerned how I would feel about Roz given that she was a synthetic, but any fears were allayed before the end of the prologue. This heroine is such a precious ray of sunshine without ever feeling annoying or forced. Her naivete is balanced by her programing in such a way that she's a complex, multi-faceted character who you're rooting for from the beginning.
Fas, our hero, is a beautiful blend of strength and gentleness. As a single dad raising two kids, he's already got enough on his plate when Roz (literally) drops in his lap. However, he takes a risk on her and never looks back!
The chemistry between the two characters is immediate, but never feels awkward. It's definitely a realistic slow burn where the couple begins as unlikely friends before eventually becoming lovers.
As always, the world building and side characters are top tier. I'm always left wanting to know more about every person who's named in the ISU books, and I can only hope that we get dedicated novels about some of these folks in the future [*coughcough Traveler coughcough*].
As an aside, one of the things that I particularly loved about this book was the implied audio of it. Referencing the hyena-like laughter and chuffing that Fas regularly made gave me literal goosebumps! This is definitely a read that would be excellent in audio book format, and I hope that we see that happen one day soon!
Alliance is no exception to this, with our 6th venture into the ISU series offering plenty of action to go along with the romance. I was concerned how I would feel about Roz given that she was a synthetic, but any fears were allayed before the end of the prologue. This heroine is such a precious ray of sunshine without ever feeling annoying or forced. Her naivete is balanced by her programing in such a way that she's a complex, multi-faceted character who you're rooting for from the beginning.
Fas, our hero, is a beautiful blend of strength and gentleness. As a single dad raising two kids, he's already got enough on his plate when Roz (literally) drops in his lap. However, he takes a risk on her and never looks back!
The chemistry between the two characters is immediate, but never feels awkward. It's definitely a realistic slow burn where the couple begins as unlikely friends before eventually becoming lovers.
As always, the world building and side characters are top tier. I'm always left wanting to know more about every person who's named in the ISU books, and I can only hope that we get dedicated novels about some of these folks in the future [*coughcough Traveler coughcough*].
As an aside, one of the things that I particularly loved about this book was the implied audio of it. Referencing the hyena-like laughter and chuffing that Fas regularly made gave me literal goosebumps! This is definitely a read that would be excellent in audio book format, and I hope that we see that happen one day soon!
July 5, 2024
❄️ Immersive World Building
❄️ Scifi Alien Romance with Horror Elements
❄️ Slow Burn
❄️ Body Fluid (Predator/prey fluid)
❄️ FMC Human Clone
❄️ MMC hyena inspired alien species
❄️ Primal Chase for survival
❄️ Found Family
I love this series so much 🥹
The Intersolar Union series has been my favorite series find of 2024, and I was so pumped to be given an ARC of Alliance. I can’t hype up this book series enough, please pleaseeeee go read it 😭🫶
Etta masterfully weaves Alliance with a compelling plot, an ever creeping feeling of foreboding, an immersive world building, a steamy romance, and complex characters you’ll inevitably fall for.
I have a soft spot for cyborg/robot/android ect type characters. Our fmc Roz is a flawed clone doll, with living human code. Her journey: both literal to Renata, and metaphorical into her own identity is deeply fascinating and gripping. Her story fits so well within the rest of the ISU, and she definitely a favorite fmc for me. I loved her duality of being very highly skilled and competent while also being very new and unsure with all things human.
& Fásach 🫶🫶🫶 I LOVED our mmc.This is the first time we get for his species, Yiwren, and I didn’t know what to expect. They’re an alien species inspired by hyenas, and they’re Predator/prey fluid. I’ve never read something like that before and it was all so clever. There was so much duality in Fás and it worked so well for his character. I loved him 🫶
Not to mention:
🔥 hand necklaces
🔥 primal chase
🔥 rutting
🔥 touch her and 💀
✨I’m voluntarily leaving a review of arc received, thoughts are my own
❄️ Scifi Alien Romance with Horror Elements
❄️ Slow Burn
❄️ Body Fluid (Predator/prey fluid)
❄️ FMC Human Clone
❄️ MMC hyena inspired alien species
❄️ Primal Chase for survival
❄️ Found Family
I love this series so much 🥹
The Intersolar Union series has been my favorite series find of 2024, and I was so pumped to be given an ARC of Alliance. I can’t hype up this book series enough, please pleaseeeee go read it 😭🫶
Etta masterfully weaves Alliance with a compelling plot, an ever creeping feeling of foreboding, an immersive world building, a steamy romance, and complex characters you’ll inevitably fall for.
I have a soft spot for cyborg/robot/android ect type characters. Our fmc Roz is a flawed clone doll, with living human code. Her journey: both literal to Renata, and metaphorical into her own identity is deeply fascinating and gripping. Her story fits so well within the rest of the ISU, and she definitely a favorite fmc for me. I loved her duality of being very highly skilled and competent while also being very new and unsure with all things human.
& Fásach 🫶🫶🫶 I LOVED our mmc.This is the first time we get for his species, Yiwren, and I didn’t know what to expect. They’re an alien species inspired by hyenas, and they’re Predator/prey fluid. I’ve never read something like that before and it was all so clever. There was so much duality in Fás and it worked so well for his character. I loved him 🫶
Not to mention:
🔥 hand necklaces
🔥 primal chase
🔥 rutting
🔥 touch her and 💀
✨I’m voluntarily leaving a review of arc received, thoughts are my own
July 4, 2024
Etta Pierce does it again! I loved this. I was on the edge of my seat the entire book.
What I love about this series is that Etta’s world building is so impressive, and each book has a masterful plot with a compelling romance while simultaneously pulling you along on this epic overarching mystery (which is also why I have to recommend you read these in order).
Roz and Fas were too precious. They are each battling with being at the whims of their circumstances and biology, and I loved how they navigated that both separately and together. It can be hard to write a doll/clone/AI character because of the inherent issues with autonomy and consent. This is both dealt with and played with in this book and it was so well done. I can’t say much more without spoilers, but I will say I always trusted Roz to figure out what she wanted in the end.
This book is darker than the others in some ways, but softer in many of the romance aspects. I thought it struck such a good balance, while keeping the spice a little grittier (I liked). I mean, what. A. Chase. Scene.
What I love so much about this series is that Etta writes fully formed MMCs and kick-ass FMCs and I always adore both so much. I felt a sense of closure at the end of this book while my jaw also dropped to the floor at the sort-of cliffy.
As far as sci-fi/alien romance goes, this series is top shelf and this was another banger.
What I love about this series is that Etta’s world building is so impressive, and each book has a masterful plot with a compelling romance while simultaneously pulling you along on this epic overarching mystery (which is also why I have to recommend you read these in order).
Roz and Fas were too precious. They are each battling with being at the whims of their circumstances and biology, and I loved how they navigated that both separately and together. It can be hard to write a doll/clone/AI character because of the inherent issues with autonomy and consent. This is both dealt with and played with in this book and it was so well done. I can’t say much more without spoilers, but I will say I always trusted Roz to figure out what she wanted in the end.
This book is darker than the others in some ways, but softer in many of the romance aspects. I thought it struck such a good balance, while keeping the spice a little grittier (I liked). I mean, what. A. Chase. Scene.
What I love so much about this series is that Etta writes fully formed MMCs and kick-ass FMCs and I always adore both so much. I felt a sense of closure at the end of this book while my jaw also dropped to the floor at the sort-of cliffy.
As far as sci-fi/alien romance goes, this series is top shelf and this was another banger.
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