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Colliding Worlds Trilogy #1
Collision
FROM THE BEST-SELLING AUTHOR OF 100 DAYS IN DEADLAND
Sienna Wolfe knows it's going to be an interesting day when a man with golden skin and strange tattoos crashes in her backyard . . . and ends up tied to her bedposts. She likes her life just the way it is - simple, easy, relaxed. But when the gorgeous new alien in her life asks for her help in an inter-galactic war on a collision course with Earth, she can't say no . . . but she'll soon wish she had.
The U.S. military has figured out they have uninvited company, and they're not happy. Sienna knows it won't be easy protecting Earth from an alien invasion, but as a woman of action, she refuses to back down. Now it's up to Sienna to pull off the save the world and - hopefully - live a little happily ever after.
Colliding Worlds 1. Collision 2. Implosion 3. Explosion
Science Fiction Romance Sensual
Sienna Wolfe knows it's going to be an interesting day when a man with golden skin and strange tattoos crashes in her backyard . . . and ends up tied to her bedposts. She likes her life just the way it is - simple, easy, relaxed. But when the gorgeous new alien in her life asks for her help in an inter-galactic war on a collision course with Earth, she can't say no . . . but she'll soon wish she had.
The U.S. military has figured out they have uninvited company, and they're not happy. Sienna knows it won't be easy protecting Earth from an alien invasion, but as a woman of action, she refuses to back down. Now it's up to Sienna to pull off the save the world and - hopefully - live a little happily ever after.
Colliding Worlds 1. Collision 2. Implosion 3. Explosion
Science Fiction Romance Sensual
224 pages, Paperback
First published July 30, 2012
45 people are currently reading
592 people want to read
About the author
Berinn Rae
10 books59 followersRACHEL AUKES writes horror stories, and as BERINN RAE she writes sci-fi romance and paranormal romance. Rachel was raised on a farm in Iowa where she boasted the small town’s largest (and only) comic book collection, and she's still addicted to stories starring characters with kickassitude. When not writing, Rachel flies old airplanes in the American Midwest with her awesomely supportive husband and caters to an incredibly spoiled sixty-pound lap dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 26, 2015
My Thoughts
________________________________________
There are many things I enjoyed about this novel. Most of all is the heroine the author has created. Even though she isn’t the strongest physically, she’s brave and totally kickass. She’s also very impetuous which turns the human and alien races militant way of life upside down. She saves the hero’s ass, she plays an integral role in blending the societies, and the feminist in me loved the fact that the Sephian race is a matriarchal society. Women ruled the roost so to speak and I rather enjoyed this refreshing story world the author created.
Sci-fi isn’t normally my genre to read however since its paranormal romance, I jumped at the chance when approached by the author. I’m so glad I did. I believe it has t led me to an epiphany. I’m so over bossy Alpha males! The “I’m the all powerful, you are mine, you will do what I say because I make all the decisions” male that seems to be all too common in our romance novels these days. Thanks Ms. Rae for the refreshing escape! Time for the chicks to rule.
________________________________________
About the Story
________________________________________
Collision is the story of alien beings (Sephians) that secretly came to planet earth hunting their enemy alien race (Draeken). The Sephians believed that the Draeken were here with plans to enslave humans as they did the Sephians years ago. The Sephians stepped in partly because they did not want humans to be enslaved like they were but mainly because they just hated the Draeken and they wanted to kill as many as they can.
Our heroine, Siena, wasn’t too shocked at the discovery of other races on our planet since she grew up with parents that researched alien societies. She also worked for the military’s elite force that studied paranormal life forms. What was shocking for her to discover is that they were so much like humans that they could mate and that she was the pre-destined one true mate (his tahren) of Legian – a member of the leader’s trinity of advisors.
The story then evolves into a suspenseful tale of initiating contact between humans and Sephians, convincing them of the Draeken threat and how they could work together to overcome the threat.
________________________________________
About the Characters
________________________________________
I talked about Sienna above so you know I loved her character. I also enjoyed meeting the hero, Legian. He’s hot as hell like all of our favorite romance heroes are, strong willed and definitely no pushover but willing to do whatever Sienna wanted to make his tahren happy. Including accepting her taking another lover if that was what she wanted. He wouldn’t like it but he was willing to do it. He had her back no matter what messes she gotten herself into, painted her toenails and went out of his way to bring her things on the base where they lived because she missed them – like an Xbox. He offered complete and total support and didn’t boss her around. Tried a few times, didn’t get far and he was ok with that. No big ego for Legian.
The intensity of their passion was compelling from the start and felt throughout the entire story. A passion that was made stronger through mutual respect for each other.
There was time spent on developing the supporting characters. I’ve read a few of Berinn Rae’s novels now and find that to be a particular strength of hers.
________________________________________
About the Writing
________________________________________
The writing in this novel is smart and funny. I enjoyed it when a few of the supporting characters were trying to learn English slang. Imagine a hot alien mate saying to you they would like a “fastee” instead of a “quickie”. Or “you fight unclean” instead of saying she “fought dirty,” and “hold your hollies” instead of “hold your horses.” These little things added to the novel providing a comic relief from the seriousness of the war they were fighting.
A few memorable quotes…
“And for some other unknown reason, Nalea picked up profanity and slang faster than a sailor finding a whore at port.”
And
“It’s not my fault. He’s hitting his time of the month again.” Jax cocked his head and eyed her strangely. “Sephian males. They’re fertile only a couple of days every couple of months. It makes them horny as hell-and they become total dickheads, too.” This totally cracked me up.
And
“Legian’s least favorite of all Sephian weapons, finding it too small for his grip. She knew he carried it for her. Her tahren romanced her in the sweetest ways.”
And
“I know where the ‘extra’ in ‘extraterrestrial’ came from.”
There are many examples of this type of commentary and each one equally amusing.
It’s a fast paced novel and thus a fast read. There are no slow downs that do not make sense. Even though some of the subject matter is serious, the tone is light and offsets the seriousness. Maybe a little too light at times when perhaps it should have been more intense. That is the only reason I rated it at 4 stars instead of 5. That being said, it doesn’t take away from the overall story.
________________________________________
Bottom Line
________________________________________
Overall, an enjoyable read. There’s good character development, a unique story world, intriguing plot, an engaging story with lots of action and very steamy love scenes. I enjoyed it and highly recommend adding it to your To Be Read list.
Happy Reading!!
4 Stars – Really Enjoyed It!!!!
________________________________________
There are many things I enjoyed about this novel. Most of all is the heroine the author has created. Even though she isn’t the strongest physically, she’s brave and totally kickass. She’s also very impetuous which turns the human and alien races militant way of life upside down. She saves the hero’s ass, she plays an integral role in blending the societies, and the feminist in me loved the fact that the Sephian race is a matriarchal society. Women ruled the roost so to speak and I rather enjoyed this refreshing story world the author created.
Sci-fi isn’t normally my genre to read however since its paranormal romance, I jumped at the chance when approached by the author. I’m so glad I did. I believe it has t led me to an epiphany. I’m so over bossy Alpha males! The “I’m the all powerful, you are mine, you will do what I say because I make all the decisions” male that seems to be all too common in our romance novels these days. Thanks Ms. Rae for the refreshing escape! Time for the chicks to rule.
________________________________________
About the Story
________________________________________
Collision is the story of alien beings (Sephians) that secretly came to planet earth hunting their enemy alien race (Draeken). The Sephians believed that the Draeken were here with plans to enslave humans as they did the Sephians years ago. The Sephians stepped in partly because they did not want humans to be enslaved like they were but mainly because they just hated the Draeken and they wanted to kill as many as they can.
Our heroine, Siena, wasn’t too shocked at the discovery of other races on our planet since she grew up with parents that researched alien societies. She also worked for the military’s elite force that studied paranormal life forms. What was shocking for her to discover is that they were so much like humans that they could mate and that she was the pre-destined one true mate (his tahren) of Legian – a member of the leader’s trinity of advisors.
The story then evolves into a suspenseful tale of initiating contact between humans and Sephians, convincing them of the Draeken threat and how they could work together to overcome the threat.
________________________________________
About the Characters
________________________________________
I talked about Sienna above so you know I loved her character. I also enjoyed meeting the hero, Legian. He’s hot as hell like all of our favorite romance heroes are, strong willed and definitely no pushover but willing to do whatever Sienna wanted to make his tahren happy. Including accepting her taking another lover if that was what she wanted. He wouldn’t like it but he was willing to do it. He had her back no matter what messes she gotten herself into, painted her toenails and went out of his way to bring her things on the base where they lived because she missed them – like an Xbox. He offered complete and total support and didn’t boss her around. Tried a few times, didn’t get far and he was ok with that. No big ego for Legian.
The intensity of their passion was compelling from the start and felt throughout the entire story. A passion that was made stronger through mutual respect for each other.
There was time spent on developing the supporting characters. I’ve read a few of Berinn Rae’s novels now and find that to be a particular strength of hers.
________________________________________
About the Writing
________________________________________
The writing in this novel is smart and funny. I enjoyed it when a few of the supporting characters were trying to learn English slang. Imagine a hot alien mate saying to you they would like a “fastee” instead of a “quickie”. Or “you fight unclean” instead of saying she “fought dirty,” and “hold your hollies” instead of “hold your horses.” These little things added to the novel providing a comic relief from the seriousness of the war they were fighting.
A few memorable quotes…
“And for some other unknown reason, Nalea picked up profanity and slang faster than a sailor finding a whore at port.”
And
“It’s not my fault. He’s hitting his time of the month again.” Jax cocked his head and eyed her strangely. “Sephian males. They’re fertile only a couple of days every couple of months. It makes them horny as hell-and they become total dickheads, too.” This totally cracked me up.
And
“Legian’s least favorite of all Sephian weapons, finding it too small for his grip. She knew he carried it for her. Her tahren romanced her in the sweetest ways.”
And
“I know where the ‘extra’ in ‘extraterrestrial’ came from.”
There are many examples of this type of commentary and each one equally amusing.
It’s a fast paced novel and thus a fast read. There are no slow downs that do not make sense. Even though some of the subject matter is serious, the tone is light and offsets the seriousness. Maybe a little too light at times when perhaps it should have been more intense. That is the only reason I rated it at 4 stars instead of 5. That being said, it doesn’t take away from the overall story.
________________________________________
Bottom Line
________________________________________
Overall, an enjoyable read. There’s good character development, a unique story world, intriguing plot, an engaging story with lots of action and very steamy love scenes. I enjoyed it and highly recommend adding it to your To Be Read list.
Happy Reading!!
4 Stars – Really Enjoyed It!!!!
July 8, 2012
From the first page, COLLISION propels you into a fun, fast-paced adventure when a gorgeous alien crash-lands in tough-chick Sienna’s backyard and turns her life upside down. An otherworldly passion explodes between Sienna and Legian, leaving you wondering where all the hot aliens are on Earth! With just the right amount of snark and kickassitude, Sienna is a heroine you can easily root for. I especially loved her banter and newfound friendship with Nalea! Even though the setting takes place on Earth, the reader is well immersed in the Sephian culture. With witty dialogue, fast-paced action, excellent world-building, and well-drawn characters, there’s plenty here to keep you reading far into the night. I thoroughly enjoyed COLLISION and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I would recommend COLLISION to anyone who loves romance and adventure, but especially lovers of SF romance!
I would recommend COLLISION to anyone who loves romance and adventure, but especially lovers of SF romance!
July 21, 2017
The first book in the Colliding Worlds Trilogy by Berinn Rae. Sienna Wolfe lost her husband and retreated to a cabin in Arkansas. Then one day a strange plane crashes and inside is a strange looking alien. So anyway, this alien ends up being her "soul-mate". Legian is a Sephian and they are at war with the Draeken. The Sephian are on Earth to keep the Draeken from invading them and enslaving them.
While I liked the story, I felt there were gaps. Not enough insight as to who the aliens are or their cultures. Just not enough development in the characters or the story. But I did want to find out what happened next so I did download the next book. Hopefully, I'll like it better.
While I liked the story, I felt there were gaps. Not enough insight as to who the aliens are or their cultures. Just not enough development in the characters or the story. But I did want to find out what happened next so I did download the next book. Hopefully, I'll like it better.
November 1, 2014
This was another book club choice. It was...I will admit not the BEST written book, but for some reason extremely enjoyable. It read like a first book, and was promising, so I'd try more by this author! Definitely on the cheesy romance side ya'll ;) A guilty pleasure.
August 16, 2018
Well...that was a ride!
TL;DR - Bad
Overall, I didn't like the book (obviously). It had good moments, but a lot of smaller things ruined the book for me. I even took notes about the stuff I didn't like! Let's get into some.
1) The insta-love. This trope is guaranteed to ruin a book for me, and Sienna & Legian really blew me away with how quickly they declared each other soulmates?? Especially since Sienna is supposedly extremely heartbroken over her husband when she meets him, but just a few days later and they're madly in love? We didn't even see their relationship develop like...come on...
2) Things that just Could Not Happen. I get that this is a sci-fi but our MC is very human (as she likes to mention, a lot) and she just...does things that humans can't do. For example-during a fight, she's tackled and the leg she just broke is twisted underneath her attacker and she just brushes off the pain by...biting her lip? What?? She doesn't at least cry out in pain? Her recently broken leg was just twisted underneath her and...nothing? The next thing I got down is that Sienna straight up I'm worried.
3) Western-centric viewpoints. Golly gee, there were a LOT of examples of this. The first one I noticed was fairly early in when Bente remarks that Draeken have sickly pale skin, "much like humans." I was able to brush this aside because some humans are pale, and surely they don't mean every human, right? The next instance that caught my attention was when the aliens decide to contact the world...sorry, did I say world? I meant the US & UK. Those are the only 'world leaders' present at this little alliance-making meeting, and they're genuinely treated as the only 2 global superpowers throughout and I'm just...so confused. I get not wanting too many unnecessary complications but seriously? Not even China? No mention of any countries behind America and England? As world leaders (of the US and UK, obviously the entire world, duh) they have a chance to announce this to the world on their own terms and deal with the fallout...but what about fallout outside these countries? I have so many questions.
4) Ignorance (that is like...never addressed or part of the plot or something it's just there and it's Kinda Gross). I wanna start with the racial/cultural stuff cause that's what really bothered me, so I got myself 2 nice examples. The first is when Sienna remarks that a nearby cave gives her the creeps and she hung a God's eye in the entrance. Her explanation for a God's eye is: “..a God’s eye is made out of yarn and sticks. It’s a Native American thing. You make them to scare off bad spirits." This felt pretty untrue, so I decided to fact check this and...yeah. A quick, 2-minute google search gives me a more accurate explanation than whatever this was. The next example is more subtle (and I honestly don't think it was purposeful at all, but it's there) but it stood out to me immediately. Sienna remarks that 'men' and 'women' are the same height in the alien species she's stumbled upon, and thus her average human height and inability to heal makes it so that she has to work twice as much to get people to respect her. And if that seems familiar, it is! Because POC have to work twice as much to get half as much, a sentiment that is expressed constantly today and is now written onto a fairly privileged white girl. Don't get me wrong-if you can't write POC characters, don't. But don't push POC struggles onto white mains. There are also times we get some small instances of casual misogyny, along with a pretty gross (and very unnecessary) scene where some Dudebros comment on the prospect of 2 girls having a sleepover...yeah, you can guess.
So yeah! I didn't like this book. Sorry. It made me laugh once or twice, I guess. This book was really lacking something. The closest thing i can think of is substance, but that doesn't exactly explain what I mean.
TL;DR - Bad
Overall, I didn't like the book (obviously). It had good moments, but a lot of smaller things ruined the book for me. I even took notes about the stuff I didn't like! Let's get into some.
1) The insta-love. This trope is guaranteed to ruin a book for me, and Sienna & Legian really blew me away with how quickly they declared each other soulmates?? Especially since Sienna is supposedly extremely heartbroken over her husband when she meets him, but just a few days later and they're madly in love? We didn't even see their relationship develop like...come on...
2) Things that just Could Not Happen. I get that this is a sci-fi but our MC is very human (as she likes to mention, a lot) and she just...does things that humans can't do. For example-during a fight, she's tackled and the leg she just broke is twisted underneath her attacker and she just brushes off the pain by...biting her lip? What?? She doesn't at least cry out in pain? Her recently broken leg was just twisted underneath her and...nothing? The next thing I got down is that Sienna straight up I'm worried.
3) Western-centric viewpoints. Golly gee, there were a LOT of examples of this. The first one I noticed was fairly early in when Bente remarks that Draeken have sickly pale skin, "much like humans." I was able to brush this aside because some humans are pale, and surely they don't mean every human, right? The next instance that caught my attention was when the aliens decide to contact the world...sorry, did I say world? I meant the US & UK. Those are the only 'world leaders' present at this little alliance-making meeting, and they're genuinely treated as the only 2 global superpowers throughout and I'm just...so confused. I get not wanting too many unnecessary complications but seriously? Not even China? No mention of any countries behind America and England? As world leaders (of the US and UK, obviously the entire world, duh) they have a chance to announce this to the world on their own terms and deal with the fallout...but what about fallout outside these countries? I have so many questions.
4) Ignorance (that is like...never addressed or part of the plot or something it's just there and it's Kinda Gross). I wanna start with the racial/cultural stuff cause that's what really bothered me, so I got myself 2 nice examples. The first is when Sienna remarks that a nearby cave gives her the creeps and she hung a God's eye in the entrance. Her explanation for a God's eye is: “..a God’s eye is made out of yarn and sticks. It’s a Native American thing. You make them to scare off bad spirits." This felt pretty untrue, so I decided to fact check this and...yeah. A quick, 2-minute google search gives me a more accurate explanation than whatever this was. The next example is more subtle (and I honestly don't think it was purposeful at all, but it's there) but it stood out to me immediately. Sienna remarks that 'men' and 'women' are the same height in the alien species she's stumbled upon, and thus her average human height and inability to heal makes it so that she has to work twice as much to get people to respect her. And if that seems familiar, it is! Because POC have to work twice as much to get half as much, a sentiment that is expressed constantly today and is now written onto a fairly privileged white girl. Don't get me wrong-if you can't write POC characters, don't. But don't push POC struggles onto white mains. There are also times we get some small instances of casual misogyny, along with a pretty gross (and very unnecessary) scene where some Dudebros comment on the prospect of 2 girls having a sleepover...yeah, you can guess.
So yeah! I didn't like this book. Sorry. It made me laugh once or twice, I guess. This book was really lacking something. The closest thing i can think of is substance, but that doesn't exactly explain what I mean.
July 7, 2012
Legian is secretly fighting an enemy on foreign soil for a race that does not even know he exists. He came to Earth with his people in hopes of aligning with humans to once and for all defeat the Draeken. The aligning has not gone as expected. Apolo, his leader has chosen to remain hidden and fight the enemy in secret.
Sienna moved far away from life and into a remote cabin in the woods to get away from the world. After the loss of her husband her view on life drastically changed. Her goal was isolation and she had it until a UFO crashed in her back yard. Sienna finds herself helping the man in the space craft. Alarms are blaring, fuel is leaking, and time is running out. She doesn’t even know she has just pulled her future from his death.
I found the romance to be a side story. Sienna and Legian are the main characters, they get a happily ever after, but the overall focus of the book seems to be Sienna assisting this alien race as a whole. The book reads and moves like an urban fantasy, but with aliens.
I liked Sienna. She is an easy heroine to connect with. She is trying to hold on to her human normalcy, her love of video games, romance novels, and a good glass of wine, while being the only human living among a base full of aliens. In fact I enjoyed all of the characters. The Sephian race as a whole is intriguing. Their view on women as equals was refreshing. The human friends (Division 51 Black Ops Team) that Sienna calls in for assistance added a nice tension Collision.
I found a new twist on sci fi with Collision. The aliens that have secretly landed on Earth are not here looking for a new home, they’re not looking for breeding vessels. Sephian’s have come to Earth to prevent their enemies from doing to Earth what they did to Sephia. The Sephian’s have brought advanced technology and knowledge to assist in the prevention of a war between humans and Draeken.
Colliding Worlds is a series that I will definitely continue reading. I want know more about many of the characters. I also want to know more about the Draeken. I am looking forward to the next book. I think anyone who enjoys sci fi or urban fantasy, with a touch of romance and aliens would find this an enjoyable read.
***A little FYI. RPG in this book means role playing game, not rocket propelled grenade. I’m not a gamer and I couldn’t figure out what an Xbox and RPG had in common. LOL! Gotta love Google.***
Sienna moved far away from life and into a remote cabin in the woods to get away from the world. After the loss of her husband her view on life drastically changed. Her goal was isolation and she had it until a UFO crashed in her back yard. Sienna finds herself helping the man in the space craft. Alarms are blaring, fuel is leaking, and time is running out. She doesn’t even know she has just pulled her future from his death.
I found the romance to be a side story. Sienna and Legian are the main characters, they get a happily ever after, but the overall focus of the book seems to be Sienna assisting this alien race as a whole. The book reads and moves like an urban fantasy, but with aliens.
I liked Sienna. She is an easy heroine to connect with. She is trying to hold on to her human normalcy, her love of video games, romance novels, and a good glass of wine, while being the only human living among a base full of aliens. In fact I enjoyed all of the characters. The Sephian race as a whole is intriguing. Their view on women as equals was refreshing. The human friends (Division 51 Black Ops Team) that Sienna calls in for assistance added a nice tension Collision.
I found a new twist on sci fi with Collision. The aliens that have secretly landed on Earth are not here looking for a new home, they’re not looking for breeding vessels. Sephian’s have come to Earth to prevent their enemies from doing to Earth what they did to Sephia. The Sephian’s have brought advanced technology and knowledge to assist in the prevention of a war between humans and Draeken.
Colliding Worlds is a series that I will definitely continue reading. I want know more about many of the characters. I also want to know more about the Draeken. I am looking forward to the next book. I think anyone who enjoys sci fi or urban fantasy, with a touch of romance and aliens would find this an enjoyable read.
***A little FYI. RPG in this book means role playing game, not rocket propelled grenade. I’m not a gamer and I couldn’t figure out what an Xbox and RPG had in common. LOL! Gotta love Google.***
July 15, 2014
I absolutely love the Deadland Saga by Rachel Aukes. She also writes under the penname Berinn Rae, so while waiting for the last book in the Deadland Saga, I decided to try Collision, the first book in a SciFi trilogy.
And this is a nice read.
I had expected more of a build up in the romance between Sienna and Legian, but that was not to be. They meet, they kiss, and Bam! They're a couple. I had liked to see a bit more development in that relationship to be honest. Because it was all so quick I didn't really feel invested in their relationship.
But that aside I enjoyed the story. The aliens are interesting, the whole set up intriguing and there's some cool action. I might have been disappointed in the romance, the overall action storyline made up for that.
The lead characters of the next two books are introduced, and I must say I'm very curious about book two in this trilogy.
So although this book isn't as cool as the Deadland Saga, it's still fun enough that I'll put it on my keeper shelves and will pick up the next book sometime.
And this is a nice read.
I had expected more of a build up in the romance between Sienna and Legian, but that was not to be. They meet, they kiss, and Bam! They're a couple. I had liked to see a bit more development in that relationship to be honest. Because it was all so quick I didn't really feel invested in their relationship.
But that aside I enjoyed the story. The aliens are interesting, the whole set up intriguing and there's some cool action. I might have been disappointed in the romance, the overall action storyline made up for that.
The lead characters of the next two books are introduced, and I must say I'm very curious about book two in this trilogy.
So although this book isn't as cool as the Deadland Saga, it's still fun enough that I'll put it on my keeper shelves and will pick up the next book sometime.
August 8, 2012
I’m a sucker for fate-mate love stories, so I was hooked in Collision right away. Legian is an alpha hero any girl could love, but the heroine Sienna is so bad-ass she steals the show. Loved watching her continually surprise Legian with her shenanigans, which usually ended up saving his life and everyone else’s.
Note: I was provided an ARC for review as a professional courtesy. No monetary or other compensation was involved.
Note: I was provided an ARC for review as a professional courtesy. No monetary or other compensation was involved.
August 19, 2012
Collision is a fast-paced romance with a strong heroine. In this Part one of Rae's trilogy we follow Sienna as she comes to term with leadership and loving an alien all the while kicking-butt and never, ever walking away from a fight. It'll be fun to see what will become of her--and Earth--as the next books of the series come out.
January 10, 2015
I read Berinn Rae's short story in Tales From The SFR Brigade (excellent, by the way), and she was one of the author's I followed up with after finishing that collection. I started with Collision since I like SFR.
I liked this book a lot. The beginning really hooked me in and there was a lot of growth to the heroine. My only complaint was the lack of insight into Legian. By the end, I felt like I knew alpha characters Apolo and Jax better. There is a three month leap in time early in the book, and this would have been the best time to discover personality quirks about Legian. I felt cheated as this was when Legian and Sienna discovered each other. Although it is written in third person, we never really get into Legian's head like we do Sienna's.
That nitpick aside, I felt the sequence action in this book was terrific. There was a lot of physical confrontation in terms of fight scenes among the humans and aliens, and I was able to follow the action very well in my head. Sometimes romance authors really lose their pacing in these scenes, but not Rae! She is very strong in this aspect, and each scene is built very well and not at all repetitive. There is a lot of imagination when it comes to the weapons.
The sci fi elements were interesting, including the physical differences with the Sephian and Draeken races. She also incorporated differences in other physical ways related to light/dark, food, healing, etc. I thought it was pretty original.
I also liked the irreverence of the characters. Sienna and Ben were probably the funniest. Rae had a lot of great quips, quoted by another reviewer for this book. The humor sparkled throughout, and it was nice that Sienna didn't curb that personality quirk for anybody.
There are a lot of characters to keep track of in Collision, but Rae does a great job giving each one distinctive personalities and appearances. Actually, one of Rae's strongest writing skills is the introduction of new characters. You leave the scene with a good sense of who just walked into it. There will be plenty of storylines to mine for books two and three!
I liked this book a lot. The beginning really hooked me in and there was a lot of growth to the heroine. My only complaint was the lack of insight into Legian. By the end, I felt like I knew alpha characters Apolo and Jax better. There is a three month leap in time early in the book, and this would have been the best time to discover personality quirks about Legian. I felt cheated as this was when Legian and Sienna discovered each other. Although it is written in third person, we never really get into Legian's head like we do Sienna's.
That nitpick aside, I felt the sequence action in this book was terrific. There was a lot of physical confrontation in terms of fight scenes among the humans and aliens, and I was able to follow the action very well in my head. Sometimes romance authors really lose their pacing in these scenes, but not Rae! She is very strong in this aspect, and each scene is built very well and not at all repetitive. There is a lot of imagination when it comes to the weapons.
The sci fi elements were interesting, including the physical differences with the Sephian and Draeken races. She also incorporated differences in other physical ways related to light/dark, food, healing, etc. I thought it was pretty original.
I also liked the irreverence of the characters. Sienna and Ben were probably the funniest. Rae had a lot of great quips, quoted by another reviewer for this book. The humor sparkled throughout, and it was nice that Sienna didn't curb that personality quirk for anybody.
There are a lot of characters to keep track of in Collision, but Rae does a great job giving each one distinctive personalities and appearances. Actually, one of Rae's strongest writing skills is the introduction of new characters. You leave the scene with a good sense of who just walked into it. There will be plenty of storylines to mine for books two and three!
July 19, 2012
One of my biggest pet peeves about reading books about aliens is that people seem to humanize them. I always feel that it’s lazy and a naïve way to think that aliens would look similar to us. With that said, I wanted to keep an open mind when I read Collision by Berinn Rae. I’ve loved every other book she has written so with that I decided to just let loose and see where the story took me instead of focusing on how the aliens were portrayed, and I am very glad that I did.
Almost right away in this book we are introduced to two different types of aliens. Granted they are very human like, however the way that Berinn had described them made them alien enough to make it more believable. Gold glittery skin, black eyes, yup pretty alien, and the other with flesh covered wings. Works for me! This book also does not wait to get into the romance, I think not even a quarter of the way in, we get some romance. That’s what I expect from a romance novel! Besides the whole romance part of this book though, and let me tell you there is a bunch, and it works in so well with the story, this book has a very nail biting story to it. We’ve all ready cheesy romance books, this is not one of them.
The bond between the two main characters, Sienna and Leigan, is so real and is a bond that many of us wish to have. Their triumphs and tragedies in this story are very real and you feel for both of them. Although this is a love/romance story, it almost seems like a side story to the war that seems to be raging on earth. As I said before, the story is so well written you just get suck up into this book and you cannot put it down. At the end, I was on pins and needles wondering what was going to happen, knowing there is going to be more books in this series I was wondering how this one would end. At the end, I was crying, crying with joy for Sienna and Leigan. I won’t say what happens, but it was the perfect way to end this book. I very much look forward to the second book in this series and I have to say, Berinn, this is my favorite of the books you have written!!
Almost right away in this book we are introduced to two different types of aliens. Granted they are very human like, however the way that Berinn had described them made them alien enough to make it more believable. Gold glittery skin, black eyes, yup pretty alien, and the other with flesh covered wings. Works for me! This book also does not wait to get into the romance, I think not even a quarter of the way in, we get some romance. That’s what I expect from a romance novel! Besides the whole romance part of this book though, and let me tell you there is a bunch, and it works in so well with the story, this book has a very nail biting story to it. We’ve all ready cheesy romance books, this is not one of them.
The bond between the two main characters, Sienna and Leigan, is so real and is a bond that many of us wish to have. Their triumphs and tragedies in this story are very real and you feel for both of them. Although this is a love/romance story, it almost seems like a side story to the war that seems to be raging on earth. As I said before, the story is so well written you just get suck up into this book and you cannot put it down. At the end, I was on pins and needles wondering what was going to happen, knowing there is going to be more books in this series I was wondering how this one would end. At the end, I was crying, crying with joy for Sienna and Leigan. I won’t say what happens, but it was the perfect way to end this book. I very much look forward to the second book in this series and I have to say, Berinn, this is my favorite of the books you have written!!
September 21, 2012
Sienna, a kickass heroine.
Legian, a sexy alien.
Together, they offer the reader everlasting love, some hot hanky panky, amped up sci-fi and a happily ever after.
Sienna's life becomes complicated when she saves Legian from a crash landing and discovers he's an alien. Then her life rockets into the unknown when she becomes Legion's tahren (his lifelong mate) and is thrown into an interstellar battle that involves not only the fate of their relationship but the fate of Earth.
Berinn Rae offers entertaining storytelling that a reader can sink their teeth into. With great attention to detail and a lot of world building, her characters feel real. She's not afraid to push them to their limits to see what they're made of, and it's clear with Sienna and Legian that their happily ever after won't come easily. Then again, that's what makes it sweet. While Sienna and Legion must deal with their newfound bond, Sienna also must learn the ways of a new culture that she's been drawn into. And together they have to shut down a race that's determined to enslave, defeat and kill. It's a battle that comes with a cost, and it's one that Sienna faces head on and willingly. In the end, she shows us the true leader she is.
If you enjoy sci-fi/urban fantasy with a side order of passion and romance, and a little JR Ward thrown in, this book is for you. Definitely recommended -- and curious to see what Rae has up her sleeve for the second in the trilogy!
July 31, 2012
In Collision, we're introduced to Sienna Wolfe, a fairly reasonable and practical woman whose world is turned upside down when a golden-skinned alien crashes in her backyard. In saving him, she unwittingly sets herself on a collision course with the US military and another alien force plotting to enslave the Earth. What is a girl to do? Why, rally the troops, of course!
I think what I enjoyed most was seeing the development of Sienna as not only a warrior, but a leader, and the recognition that being a leader requires hard choices. Sometimes she surprised me with her choices, but I never felt like the choices she made were uncharacteristic of her. Rae does an amazing job keeping Sienna's development believable and true to who she is in the context of her changing world.
And let's not forget the relationship she has with her new love... smoking hot! There are other, equally enjoyable, characters that give this novel some depth. All in all, an enjoyable read.
Alas, Berinn Rae had yet again made me regret starting a series right at the beginning... because now I have to wait to find out what's going to happen. Hopefully, I won't have to wait too long. Right, Berinn?
I think what I enjoyed most was seeing the development of Sienna as not only a warrior, but a leader, and the recognition that being a leader requires hard choices. Sometimes she surprised me with her choices, but I never felt like the choices she made were uncharacteristic of her. Rae does an amazing job keeping Sienna's development believable and true to who she is in the context of her changing world.
And let's not forget the relationship she has with her new love... smoking hot! There are other, equally enjoyable, characters that give this novel some depth. All in all, an enjoyable read.
Alas, Berinn Rae had yet again made me regret starting a series right at the beginning... because now I have to wait to find out what's going to happen. Hopefully, I won't have to wait too long. Right, Berinn?
September 4, 2012
One of my biggest pet peeves about reading books about aliens is that people seem to humanize them. I always feel that it’s lazy and a naïve way to think that aliens would look similar to us. With that said, I wanted to keep an open mind when I read Collision by Berinn Rae. I’ve loved every other book she has written so with that I decided to just let loose and see where the story took me instead of focusing on how the aliens were portrayed, and I am very glad that I did.
Read full review at Step Into Fiction
Review completed by: Ashley
Read full review at Step Into Fiction
Review completed by: Ashley
June 1, 2014
I was very pleasantly surprised with this book. I'm fairly new to romance, so I don't have a lot to compare it to, but nothing raised any red flags for me. I liked the aliens (both species) quite a bit, though Legian was a little too perfect at times, which even with my little experience of the genre is probably fairly common anyway. I loved Sienna, and her character was a breath of fresh air after the bland character building in Hunter's Claim.
May 31, 2014
Loved that the romance was important, but not the main storyline. And the main character was flawed, honest, and kicked some major ass.
September 1, 2018
I have read the Deadland saga by Rachel Aukes, and I enjoyed it very much. So, sifting through her published books, I found this intriguing series.
Well, you can guess by the rating, it was a disappointment.
It read more like a script than a novel.
It is too fast paced. I couldn’t for the life of me build any connection or attachment to the characters. It was a clinical and emotionless writing.
The idea and the story, was great. But the execution was horrible. The whole thing lacked emotions, development and for most authenticity. It was robotically, superficial and not comprehensible most of the time. We get told everything. But not once can we life through it, besides the few action and fighting scenes. Which also were way overboard. First we get told a lot of times from the heroine, she is a human and lacking. While in fights and action scenes, she morphs into a super soldier, leads the show most of the times and can handle herself like a pro, even severely injured and apparently lacking.
First we don’t get any idea of the characters personality. There is no introduction of any kind or any getting to know the characters further along the way. It just jumps right in. Even the first Alien contact and kidnapping. It was unrealistic for me. Cut. Our heroine wanders the halls of the ship. Cut. Then we have the romantic part, which doesn’t exist really. We have some shy shower scenes, 2 to be exact. Cut, we jump forward a couple of weeks, where the heroine apparently has decided let’s have sex. Cut. Next we focus on contacting the human government. The United States to be exact, cause apparently that is the representative force for the human race ergo the whole planet earth. No clue when and how that happened.
We have a lot of stereotypical cliches, that are ridiculous in my point of view and so unnecessary. Our heroine not having done anything special really, only using one dead husband contact, rises to the position of the human ambassador for the Aliens. Well, let’s say this story lacks so much it was boring as hell.
I tried to force myself to finish this book, but I couldn’t anymore at 69%. It got worse and worse. I didn’t care about any of it.
The cover is really nice tho.
Well, you can guess by the rating, it was a disappointment.
It read more like a script than a novel.
It is too fast paced. I couldn’t for the life of me build any connection or attachment to the characters. It was a clinical and emotionless writing.
The idea and the story, was great. But the execution was horrible. The whole thing lacked emotions, development and for most authenticity. It was robotically, superficial and not comprehensible most of the time. We get told everything. But not once can we life through it, besides the few action and fighting scenes. Which also were way overboard. First we get told a lot of times from the heroine, she is a human and lacking. While in fights and action scenes, she morphs into a super soldier, leads the show most of the times and can handle herself like a pro, even severely injured and apparently lacking.
First we don’t get any idea of the characters personality. There is no introduction of any kind or any getting to know the characters further along the way. It just jumps right in. Even the first Alien contact and kidnapping. It was unrealistic for me. Cut. Our heroine wanders the halls of the ship. Cut. Then we have the romantic part, which doesn’t exist really. We have some shy shower scenes, 2 to be exact. Cut, we jump forward a couple of weeks, where the heroine apparently has decided let’s have sex. Cut. Next we focus on contacting the human government. The United States to be exact, cause apparently that is the representative force for the human race ergo the whole planet earth. No clue when and how that happened.
We have a lot of stereotypical cliches, that are ridiculous in my point of view and so unnecessary. Our heroine not having done anything special really, only using one dead husband contact, rises to the position of the human ambassador for the Aliens. Well, let’s say this story lacks so much it was boring as hell.
I tried to force myself to finish this book, but I couldn’t anymore at 69%. It got worse and worse. I didn’t care about any of it.
The cover is really nice tho.
May 23, 2014
I enjoyed reading this book. This novel was recommended as primarily romance fiction with, what I had assumed to be, minor science fantasy elements. However, the story was more violent and layered than I had expected. The title of this book should have prepared me for conflict, which was to take place within this world. The sex/sensual scenes made sense in the context that they appeared. The mechanism of change and accepting a “new normal” are the relevant themes. The novel’s cover art seemed to indicate only the romantic element.
I did want more history regarding the two alien races (Sephian and Draeken). However I appreciated what information was provided did not take the reader out of the story. The main character, Sienna is a strong, emotional and intelligent woman. Both alien races had a matriarchal power structure, but did not relegate the alien males to being decorative accessories. However it did seem as if all males (alien and human) were similar. This could have been due to the fact most were soldiers.
The last two chapters seemed rushed. As this is the first book of a trilogy, the plot acceleration in these concluding chapters may have been more the result of an editorial decision rather than a plot device. The acceleration began with a betrayal (unexpected by both the Sephians and the humans). This seemed odd for two reasons: (1) the betrayer had showed a long-term fascination with certain events and (2) this character’s intent was displayed in a very concrete and obvious way, which should have been discovered by others almost immediately.
The success of this betrayal resulted in pivotal changes for a main character with an enormous amount of collateral damage for the other characters. Perhaps these changes were used as a metaphor for redefining what it means to be part of a changing universe.
I would recommend this book to readers of action/adventure and science fiction. While this book does contain romantic situations, these situations are more peripheral to the story rather than a primary theme.
I did want more history regarding the two alien races (Sephian and Draeken). However I appreciated what information was provided did not take the reader out of the story. The main character, Sienna is a strong, emotional and intelligent woman. Both alien races had a matriarchal power structure, but did not relegate the alien males to being decorative accessories. However it did seem as if all males (alien and human) were similar. This could have been due to the fact most were soldiers.
The last two chapters seemed rushed. As this is the first book of a trilogy, the plot acceleration in these concluding chapters may have been more the result of an editorial decision rather than a plot device. The acceleration began with a betrayal (unexpected by both the Sephians and the humans). This seemed odd for two reasons: (1) the betrayer had showed a long-term fascination with certain events and (2) this character’s intent was displayed in a very concrete and obvious way, which should have been discovered by others almost immediately.
The success of this betrayal resulted in pivotal changes for a main character with an enormous amount of collateral damage for the other characters. Perhaps these changes were used as a metaphor for redefining what it means to be part of a changing universe.
I would recommend this book to readers of action/adventure and science fiction. While this book does contain romantic situations, these situations are more peripheral to the story rather than a primary theme.
September 4, 2018
I am a new Rachel Aukes groupie. Two weeks ago on a business trip, I binge read her 4 Fringe Series books. I enjoyed them so much I had a difficult time waiting for the start of the Colliding Worlds Trilogy. Rachel’s writing is exciting, easy to follow, addictive and well edited. Heroes are flawed, bad guys are sometimes difficult to determine – suspense and plot twists, and there is enough humor to make it all fun. It also is not predictable, which I really appreciate because I read a lot…
In this book, it appears that 2 waring alien races have brought their fight to earth, but they have been here fighting in secret. When Sienna Wolfe is unexpectedly tossed into the middle of everything, her life will never be the same. The book subtly hints that all is not as it seems. The obvious bad aliens, may not be so bad after all. The good guys, may not be so good. Only time will tell which is which.
The book is a quick read. At just over 200 pages I was able to buzz through it in a day. The good news is the next one is due out in a week and the 3rd one a week after that, so you won’t be waiting long for the whole story. That helps keep the story fresh in your mind. If you’re smart, you’ll jump on this right away while it is discounted. Just be forewarned, like a Pringles potato chip, once you start, you won’t be able to stop.
I read 70+ books a year and have been for the last several years. I tend to only review the books I really like, that I would recommend to others. At 99 cents, you can’t go wrong here even if you don’t have time to read it now. I think the book is worth the price at full price, so it is a great deal while discounted.
In this book, it appears that 2 waring alien races have brought their fight to earth, but they have been here fighting in secret. When Sienna Wolfe is unexpectedly tossed into the middle of everything, her life will never be the same. The book subtly hints that all is not as it seems. The obvious bad aliens, may not be so bad after all. The good guys, may not be so good. Only time will tell which is which.
The book is a quick read. At just over 200 pages I was able to buzz through it in a day. The good news is the next one is due out in a week and the 3rd one a week after that, so you won’t be waiting long for the whole story. That helps keep the story fresh in your mind. If you’re smart, you’ll jump on this right away while it is discounted. Just be forewarned, like a Pringles potato chip, once you start, you won’t be able to stop.
I read 70+ books a year and have been for the last several years. I tend to only review the books I really like, that I would recommend to others. At 99 cents, you can’t go wrong here even if you don’t have time to read it now. I think the book is worth the price at full price, so it is a great deal while discounted.
April 30, 2014
***Spoilers***
I’m a sucker for 'fated to be mated' love stories, so I was hooked right away. Legian is an alpha hero which i loved especially when the heroine Sienna is such an amazingly strong character. It was nice to have a heroine who doesn't just sit back and let her partner deal with the bad guys.
I liked reading the sex scenes between them even if they were a bit cliche. For example there is one scene when he "drove himself in deep inside, filling all of her and instantly bringing on another orgasm." That section made me laugh because i have read similar scenes in a lot of romantic fiction. Why is it that fictional heros seem to have a knack for bringing orgasms like its a piece of cake?
I do kind of wish the author hadn't humanised the Sephian species so much. Its one of my peeves that romance involving aliens usually (not always) depicts the 'good' aliens as humanoid. I'd like to see romance/attraction coming from other areas rather than how ripped and humanoid they are.
Overall 4 out of 5
I’m a sucker for 'fated to be mated' love stories, so I was hooked right away. Legian is an alpha hero which i loved especially when the heroine Sienna is such an amazingly strong character. It was nice to have a heroine who doesn't just sit back and let her partner deal with the bad guys.
I liked reading the sex scenes between them even if they were a bit cliche. For example there is one scene when he "drove himself in deep inside, filling all of her and instantly bringing on another orgasm." That section made me laugh because i have read similar scenes in a lot of romantic fiction. Why is it that fictional heros seem to have a knack for bringing orgasms like its a piece of cake?
I do kind of wish the author hadn't humanised the Sephian species so much. Its one of my peeves that romance involving aliens usually (not always) depicts the 'good' aliens as humanoid. I'd like to see romance/attraction coming from other areas rather than how ripped and humanoid they are.
Overall 4 out of 5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2014
I don’t believe I have made this request of a publisher before, but now I am asking; please, please give us artwork of Draeken wings and of Legian and Sienna’s soullares. While you’re at it, perhaps a movie or a graphic novel?
I was totally happy with my first alien-human romance. I was hooked into the plot almost from the beginning. This was my first novel by Berinn Rae, so her imagination was brand new to me. She has a detailed imagination and she translates her visuals into great scenes. I enjoyed her characters, and her world building. In addition to artwork, I would have enjoyed more in the romance department, but the amount of romance makes sense with everything else that is happening in the story.
“Collision” is a complete story in itself that enticed me into reading the second, and now the final book, in the trilogy.
Berinn Rae is on my author list. I’m looking forward to more from her.
I was totally happy with my first alien-human romance. I was hooked into the plot almost from the beginning. This was my first novel by Berinn Rae, so her imagination was brand new to me. She has a detailed imagination and she translates her visuals into great scenes. I enjoyed her characters, and her world building. In addition to artwork, I would have enjoyed more in the romance department, but the amount of romance makes sense with everything else that is happening in the story.
“Collision” is a complete story in itself that enticed me into reading the second, and now the final book, in the trilogy.
Berinn Rae is on my author list. I’m looking forward to more from her.
July 13, 2018
This book was everything I’ve come to expect from this author. It was packed full of action, drama, surprise and suspense at every turn. Sienna is the heroine of this story and is a fairly recent widow who moves out to the country to grieve after her husband is taken from her much too soon. One night she comes across a wreck. And not just any wreck but a spaceship that crashed to earth with a real live alien! What happens to her and the alien is spectacular and truly larger than life. This the first book of the series and is so fantastic that I immediately one clicked the next two ebooks and why I’m rating the book 5 out-of-this-world stars.
I’d also like to highly recommend this Author’s other two series: Deadland Saga and the Fringe series. Both excellent.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I’d also like to highly recommend this Author’s other two series: Deadland Saga and the Fringe series. Both excellent.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
July 10, 2018
I'm new to Rachel Aukes, so this is my first reading of her work.
Vienna lives in a cabin in a forest in order to be alone. She was widowed at a young age and is still coming to terms with this tragedy, hence the living by herself in the middle of nowhere.
This has everything you could possibly ask for to entertain you - action, love, two sets of aliens at war, and a female lead who (outwardly anyway) seems to take everything in her stride and knows her own mind.
Very enjoyable and well-written. Judging by the high standard in this first book, the reader has a lot to look forward to in the other two books in this trilogy.
I was offered an early ecopy which I voluntarily read and honestly reviewed. Any opinions are my own.
Vienna lives in a cabin in a forest in order to be alone. She was widowed at a young age and is still coming to terms with this tragedy, hence the living by herself in the middle of nowhere.
This has everything you could possibly ask for to entertain you - action, love, two sets of aliens at war, and a female lead who (outwardly anyway) seems to take everything in her stride and knows her own mind.
Very enjoyable and well-written. Judging by the high standard in this first book, the reader has a lot to look forward to in the other two books in this trilogy.
I was offered an early ecopy which I voluntarily read and honestly reviewed. Any opinions are my own.
July 23, 2018
I recently won a copy of Collision by Rachel Aukes in a Goodreads giveaway. This is a science fiction alien invasion story and it the first in a trilogy. A woman living alone in a remote area finds a crashed space ship and becomes involved in a war between two alien species that are trapped on Earth. The story moves well at a good pace and the characters are interesting and believable. There is suspense, love intrests, and plenty of action. What I liked most was the development of the aliens versus each other and the Earth governments trying to decide what is best for us. 3.5 stars out of five.
May 11, 2014
Despite the incredibly cheesy cover, this was actually a pretty good read. The plot was interesting and the alien races were intriguing. The main character definitely has potential. I'd love to see a lot of things in this book fleshed out more though. Like more info on the alien races. Hopefully that will happen with the next book.
May 18, 2014
I liked this one. It was nice to see a romance book with a little bit older female lead, one with some life experiance to her. The alien cultures are introduced fairly well. I'll probably read more of this series.
July 31, 2018
Where is the story?
Book is readable but there is nothing special with the plot. There is no background provided for any of the characters or settings. Dialogue is also lacking. A romance starts and concludes within half a chapter.
Book is readable but there is nothing special with the plot. There is no background provided for any of the characters or settings. Dialogue is also lacking. A romance starts and concludes within half a chapter.
August 4, 2018
A fun and exciting new series. Collision is an entertaining and well crafted, action-packed alien invasion story with plenty of suspense, intrigue and even a dash of romance. It was the perfect 5-star weekend read and I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s release of the next book.
July 26, 2018
so far enjoying the series, can't wait to see what happens next.
August 12, 2018
When I started this book I did not think it was for me but the story slowly pulls you in like a good series on TV you want to no what's going to happen next. In short very good.
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