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Human Pets of Talin #6
Stealing Captivity
Ignatias thinks he’s rescuing a human pet from abuse. It’s up to Kasi to convince Ignatias to keep Sorana Colony’s secrets, and hopefully see her as more than a pet.
Admiral Ignatias
Unable to find a human pet of his own, disheartened and lonely, Admiral Ignatias agrees to inspect a Talin colonial planet on the fringes of the Empire for the Committee of Pet Welfare. If he can’t have a pet of his own, then he wants to make sure his fellow Talins are taking good care of their pets. Arriving early and sneaking down to the planet, he witnesses many shocking sights. Not only are there far more humans on the colony than registered with the Committee, but the humans are running loose all over the place without proper guidance or even collars. Then he sees something so much worse—humans laboring!
The Talins of Sorana colony are perpetrating acts of reprehensible abuse. Humans need to be sheltered and coddled. They’re far too delicate to be doing many of the things he observes.
When he finds a woman in ragged clothes, sweating, and wrestling with an auto-planter by herself, he snaps. With no real plan he grabs her, intending to make his way off the planet with this one poor soul and to come back with reinforcements to save the rest of the humans. But getting off the planet proves harder than he expected, especially when his instincts are to soothe and pamper the little female human instead of focusing on escaping.
Kasi
Kasi couldn’t have known sneaking out to check on her experimental crops one last time would get her kidnapped. Human-napped? Whatever, she’s now somewhere deep in the vast forests of Sorana with a Talin that doesn’t realize humans can be so much more than pets. Admiral Ignatias might be trying to save her, but if he reports what's going on, the colony will be in big trouble. The kind of trouble that could get Talins executed and humans “reallocated” to different Talin owners.
Can she convince him to listen to her? And more importantly, can she get him to trust her? The consequences are dire. If she fails, she’ll have to choose between saving Sorana and saving him.
Admiral Ignatias
Unable to find a human pet of his own, disheartened and lonely, Admiral Ignatias agrees to inspect a Talin colonial planet on the fringes of the Empire for the Committee of Pet Welfare. If he can’t have a pet of his own, then he wants to make sure his fellow Talins are taking good care of their pets. Arriving early and sneaking down to the planet, he witnesses many shocking sights. Not only are there far more humans on the colony than registered with the Committee, but the humans are running loose all over the place without proper guidance or even collars. Then he sees something so much worse—humans laboring!
The Talins of Sorana colony are perpetrating acts of reprehensible abuse. Humans need to be sheltered and coddled. They’re far too delicate to be doing many of the things he observes.
When he finds a woman in ragged clothes, sweating, and wrestling with an auto-planter by herself, he snaps. With no real plan he grabs her, intending to make his way off the planet with this one poor soul and to come back with reinforcements to save the rest of the humans. But getting off the planet proves harder than he expected, especially when his instincts are to soothe and pamper the little female human instead of focusing on escaping.
Kasi
Kasi couldn’t have known sneaking out to check on her experimental crops one last time would get her kidnapped. Human-napped? Whatever, she’s now somewhere deep in the vast forests of Sorana with a Talin that doesn’t realize humans can be so much more than pets. Admiral Ignatias might be trying to save her, but if he reports what's going on, the colony will be in big trouble. The kind of trouble that could get Talins executed and humans “reallocated” to different Talin owners.
Can she convince him to listen to her? And more importantly, can she get him to trust her? The consequences are dire. If she fails, she’ll have to choose between saving Sorana and saving him.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 12, 2024
58 people are currently reading
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April 16, 2024
Books 6 takes us back to the original heroes
Book 1 (Loving Captivity) and Book 2 (Escaping Captivity) have heroes that don't know human/talin pairings are not only possible, but their salvation.
Wait, I thought Lasha (Craving Captivity: Human Pets of Talin, Book 5) already had a mate? Sorry, I'm feeling snarky
Kasi is not exactly like Lasha, but she is of the same ilk. Very positive girls, regardless of circumstances. Unlike, Lasha (who had to endure such a horrible adulthood and maintained her shine), Kasi's brand of reckless happy-go-lucky was grating because of her naivety.
She blindly puts her trust in a Talin that had just spouted things that would not only put her at risk, but all the members of the colony. How is she not aware of the Reformist vs Traditionalist's on-going battle? Despite the effort the author put to explain her ignorance
I was unable to forgive her. Her actions were beyond selfish and irresponsible. Beside her liking his caramel smell, she had no basis to put so much trust in a male that could potential mean the death, separation and exile of so many other adult talins, humans and children.
She is the first and only heroine in a six book series I disliked.
I want caramel
Ignatias was first introduced in Book 1 and his immediate concern for Sora and her potential mistreatment endeared him to me from the get-go.
The first 30% of the book I was gasping and clutching my pearls, unable to believe a man that was so concerned with a random human he met only once for 5 minutes would be so cruel.
Luckily, he never was. When his past guilt was revealed I almost cried. I was so angry at how strong the indoctrination of the Talin culture of 'no feelings' was. Though, it was what attracted me to this world in the first place: such a powerful race, yet so weak they need the soft, fragile humans to save them.
I love Ignatias' journey of shedding the heavy chains of his upbringing. Of all the 'ignorant' (those that don't know human/talin couples are possible) heroes, I think his breakthrough was the most poignant.
Final thoughts
It's a shame I started this series on my pre-review era. Apart from reviewing Book 1 because I re-read it in anticipation of this book coming soon, I haven't reviewed any of the others (maybe I'll re-read some of them this year and do that).
But I can say they have all been 5 ★ star reads for me. (I'm a sucker for the juxtaposition of strong, yet weak MMC)
However, it wasn't only the heroine that brought this book to a 3 ★ rating. Book 3 (Negotiating Captivity) and Book 4 (Fighting Captivity), had this super secret mission that would deliver a blow to the traditionalists. We all got distracted when our hearts broke into a million pieces when we thought Palforma dead.
But this book was unable to distract me enough to realize the overarching plot hasn't moved a single inch. At this point I want it over and done with so I can go back to enjoy plots like those of the heroes that know humans and talins can be mates.
Also, it is my overwhelming love for this series that has me keeping it 3 ★ and not going down to 2 ★, because WHERE TF ARE MY TALIN HYBRIDS! Five books after Sora's pregnancy and we haven't had a single couple with children. If I don't get another, I'm dropping this series. Yes, I have resorted to blackmail because I'm evil and I don't care.
Book 1 (Loving Captivity) and Book 2 (Escaping Captivity) have heroes that don't know human/talin pairings are not only possible, but their salvation.
Wait, I thought Lasha (Craving Captivity: Human Pets of Talin, Book 5) already had a mate? Sorry, I'm feeling snarky
Kasi is not exactly like Lasha, but she is of the same ilk. Very positive girls, regardless of circumstances. Unlike, Lasha (who had to endure such a horrible adulthood and maintained her shine), Kasi's brand of reckless happy-go-lucky was grating because of her naivety.
She blindly puts her trust in a Talin that had just spouted things that would not only put her at risk, but all the members of the colony. How is she not aware of the Reformist vs Traditionalist's on-going battle? Despite the effort the author put to explain her ignorance
If Kasi was honest with herself, she’d thought they were exaggerating the restrictive nature of their society to keep the Wimol humans in line.
The other disquieting thought was her own lack of self- determination. She hadn’t realized the implications of being a pet before because it was never an issue.
Within the Talin Empire, she was considered a possession with no ability to do anything beyond what her owner wanted. It was a sobering thought, and for the first time since this whole adventure started, she felt vulnerable.
I was unable to forgive her. Her actions were beyond selfish and irresponsible. Beside her liking his caramel smell, she had no basis to put so much trust in a male that could potential mean the death, separation and exile of so many other adult talins, humans and children.
She is the first and only heroine in a six book series I disliked.
I want caramel
Ignatias was first introduced in Book 1 and his immediate concern for Sora and her potential mistreatment endeared him to me from the get-go.
The first 30% of the book I was gasping and clutching my pearls, unable to believe a man that was so concerned with a random human he met only once for 5 minutes would be so cruel.
Luckily, he never was. When his past guilt was revealed I almost cried. I was so angry at how strong the indoctrination of the Talin culture of 'no feelings' was. Though, it was what attracted me to this world in the first place: such a powerful race, yet so weak they need the soft, fragile humans to save them.
I love Ignatias' journey of shedding the heavy chains of his upbringing. Of all the 'ignorant' (those that don't know human/talin couples are possible) heroes, I think his breakthrough was the most poignant.
Final thoughts
It's a shame I started this series on my pre-review era. Apart from reviewing Book 1 because I re-read it in anticipation of this book coming soon, I haven't reviewed any of the others (maybe I'll re-read some of them this year and do that).
But I can say they have all been 5 ★ star reads for me. (I'm a sucker for the juxtaposition of strong, yet weak MMC)
However, it wasn't only the heroine that brought this book to a 3 ★ rating. Book 3 (Negotiating Captivity) and Book 4 (Fighting Captivity), had this super secret mission that would deliver a blow to the traditionalists. We all got distracted when our hearts broke into a million pieces when we thought Palforma dead.
But this book was unable to distract me enough to realize the overarching plot hasn't moved a single inch. At this point I want it over and done with so I can go back to enjoy plots like those of the heroes that know humans and talins can be mates.
Also, it is my overwhelming love for this series that has me keeping it 3 ★ and not going down to 2 ★, because WHERE TF ARE MY TALIN HYBRIDS! Five books after Sora's pregnancy and we haven't had a single couple with children. If I don't get another, I'm dropping this series. Yes, I have resorted to blackmail because I'm evil and I don't care.
April 20, 2024
I still love watching these aliens be clueless and touch starved.
I suggest that the bar is in hell for real life relationships if "omg, he acknowledged her sapience!" is romantic wish fulfillment. But, here we are.
I suggest that the bar is in hell for real life relationships if "omg, he acknowledged her sapience!" is romantic wish fulfillment. But, here we are.
June 1, 2025
Stealing Captivity is the sixth book in RK Munin's Human Pets of Talin series. This is a slightly weird sci-fi romance series that blends a heavy focus on cutesy romance with some action and political intrigue.
The story in this 6th installment centered on Kasi, a human woman living in the relatively progressive and newly established Sorana Colony, and Admiral Ignatias, a high-ranking and duty-bound Talin officer. Their paths crossed under tense circumstances tied to the escalating political conflicts and differing ideologies concerning humans in Talin Society. Kasi was settling into life in Sorana when she was unexpectedly abducted by a Talon! Retired Admiral Ignatias, had resigned his commission and decided to take a new job with the Department of Human Welfare after suspecting he was starting to suffer from the Fading. His first task was to assess Sorana Colony. He infiltrated in secret and was horrified that his first encounter with a human was one slaving away in a field. He immediately decided to “save” the human (by abducting her) and fleeing the planet with the intent to report back on the abuses happening at Sorana Colony!
It was a fun but not spectacular instalment. While I found the overall quality of the series has remained fairly consistent throughout, I felt this was probably the weakest installment so far. For me, the romantic chemistry between Kasi and Admiral Ignatias was just a bit lacking when compared to the connections developed by the last few couples in the series. The plot also felt a little less interesting this time around.
The premise was fun enough. Despite not fully feeling the chemistry between the leads I did like how Kasi had to convince Ignatias that humans were not simple Pets and that Sorana Colony was actually a better place for humans to live than the more oppressive and dangerous regular Talon controlled places. It is the first time since the first book we have had a Talon who was deeply indoctrinated in regular Talon political beliefs as the lead character. One of the more enjoyable elements of the tale was how slowly Ignatius was won over by Kasi and the others and how it helped him change a lot of his initial opinions on humans and other restrictive Talon beliefs.
Despite a few slight issues this was still a fun read! I’ve definitely enjoyed how the series has consistently developed the ongoing political story arcs, and this book certainly contributed to that broader narrative. I also particularly liked how we got to see a bit more of the Sorana colony. Learning about it how it functioned as a much better place for humans than the general Talin-controlled worlds was a highlight and offered a hopeful contrast and added more depth to the human experience within this universe.
All in all this was fun if not quite as good as some of the previous books in the series. I’ll read the next one for sure. Weird or not I’m pretty hooked on this series by this point!
Rating: 3.5 stars.
Audio Note: I’m still using the Eleven Reader text-to-speech app due to a lack of professionally narrated audios. It is functional (and the best tts software I’ve listened to so far by a distance) but still quite lacking vs real professionally narrated audiobooks. I went with the Ivy voice this time. It was the weakest I’ve tried so far and I also had some volume issues. I’m not sure if that was an issue with the app or a flaw in the voice selection. I hope this series gets real audiobooks one day. I’ll buy them for sure!
The story in this 6th installment centered on Kasi, a human woman living in the relatively progressive and newly established Sorana Colony, and Admiral Ignatias, a high-ranking and duty-bound Talin officer. Their paths crossed under tense circumstances tied to the escalating political conflicts and differing ideologies concerning humans in Talin Society. Kasi was settling into life in Sorana when she was unexpectedly abducted by a Talon! Retired Admiral Ignatias, had resigned his commission and decided to take a new job with the Department of Human Welfare after suspecting he was starting to suffer from the Fading. His first task was to assess Sorana Colony. He infiltrated in secret and was horrified that his first encounter with a human was one slaving away in a field. He immediately decided to “save” the human (by abducting her) and fleeing the planet with the intent to report back on the abuses happening at Sorana Colony!
It was a fun but not spectacular instalment. While I found the overall quality of the series has remained fairly consistent throughout, I felt this was probably the weakest installment so far. For me, the romantic chemistry between Kasi and Admiral Ignatias was just a bit lacking when compared to the connections developed by the last few couples in the series. The plot also felt a little less interesting this time around.
The premise was fun enough. Despite not fully feeling the chemistry between the leads I did like how Kasi had to convince Ignatias that humans were not simple Pets and that Sorana Colony was actually a better place for humans to live than the more oppressive and dangerous regular Talon controlled places. It is the first time since the first book we have had a Talon who was deeply indoctrinated in regular Talon political beliefs as the lead character. One of the more enjoyable elements of the tale was how slowly Ignatius was won over by Kasi and the others and how it helped him change a lot of his initial opinions on humans and other restrictive Talon beliefs.
Despite a few slight issues this was still a fun read! I’ve definitely enjoyed how the series has consistently developed the ongoing political story arcs, and this book certainly contributed to that broader narrative. I also particularly liked how we got to see a bit more of the Sorana colony. Learning about it how it functioned as a much better place for humans than the general Talin-controlled worlds was a highlight and offered a hopeful contrast and added more depth to the human experience within this universe.
All in all this was fun if not quite as good as some of the previous books in the series. I’ll read the next one for sure. Weird or not I’m pretty hooked on this series by this point!
Rating: 3.5 stars.
Audio Note: I’m still using the Eleven Reader text-to-speech app due to a lack of professionally narrated audios. It is functional (and the best tts software I’ve listened to so far by a distance) but still quite lacking vs real professionally narrated audiobooks. I went with the Ivy voice this time. It was the weakest I’ve tried so far and I also had some volume issues. I’m not sure if that was an issue with the app or a flaw in the voice selection. I hope this series gets real audiobooks one day. I’ll buy them for sure!
April 22, 2025
I'm not sure I'm going to make it through this book (at 60% ish).
I was looking forward to Ignatias' story, but Kasi is the most annoying heroine yet. She is TSTL. I can't comprehend her level of selfishness, stupidity/naivety, and impulsiveness. She puts her probably hundreds if not thousands of Human and Talin lives in jeopardy, because she can't keep her promise not to visit her hobby gardening field. Even though she knows that they are days away from an inspection by the Committee for Pet Welfare. And that all the humans need to be model pets. Knows that it means wearing the collar and pet outfit, being with a Talin at all times, etc.
Instead she's just like, well I'm gonna do what I want, I'm sure it'll be fine. My damn hobby plants and anxiety thoughts are more important than the risk to everything.
And then her dumbass inability to speak up and communicate that she was not being abused. Just kinda of giving up and doing those I'll deal with that later.
Later learning that despite what the people of the Wimol colony agreed to, to move to Talin space and the warnings and instruction they were given on the Talin and the laws around Humans, you didn't bother to fully pay attention and listen or believe what you were being told.
This is why Humans are considered TSTL in this universe. People like her. You'd expect growing up a second class citizen and knowing how bad Humans had it out in the universe, that you would pay attention to anything that had to do with your safety. But no.
3 Chapters in and I'd throw this book across the room if I wasn't reading it on my phone.
Poor Ignatias, no wonder he doesn't believe her with his indoctrination.
And then as it progresses, he has this sudden personality shift, because he "gave in" to his lust and had sex with Kasi. Something he had just a few days ago said the other Talin's should be killed for and was the worst abuse.
Suddenly sex, made all the little doubt we didn't know about come forward and resolve in his mind to be pro Human/Talin pairings. Like fuck that, you don't have a fundamental shift like that in less that a day. Apparently Kasi has a magical vag, that can undone years of programming.
The only thing making this book bearable is the through story and Ignatias. Although he has been done dirty.
I wish a Gorg had eaten Kasi. And I thought Isla was a dumbass. Even with a Neuro-divergent brain you should have some critical thinking skills and self preservation.
What pisses me off the most about Kasi, is that she put 2 colonies and tons of beings at risk of horrible devastating outcomes, so she wouldn't feel "uncomfortable".
Like girl if you had to check your field, put your damn collar on, wear an omni over your work clothes and bring a Talin with you. You can be inconvenienced for a few days.
SO annoyed I'm writing a damn novel myself.
I'll probably finish for the through line and my own ND brain. Helps that I know it'll "work out".
Finished the book for the through line. That, the cameos of previous couples, and Ignatias was what got me through. Kasi never got at critical thinking, impulsivity, or anything really. She stayed TSTL and needs to be locked away on Sorana and kept away from all other Talin's. She's going to get someone killed, disowned, or sold. She is a completely childish, lalala girl.
I did like Ignatias' kids and the hope they represent for the future.
But still they have military oversight for at least a solar. Which means everyone on the colony is living on edge and it all goes back to Kasi. If she had done what she was supposed to have done and said she would. Ignatias' would have done his visit, wrote his report, and then gone off with his ship, leaving the colony alone to continue prospering.
Anything that comes about because of the military being at Sorana, is on Kasi's head.
Such a stupid, thoughtless, selfish, and childish woman. She will have no Ancestor's waiting for her!
I was looking forward to Ignatias' story, but Kasi is the most annoying heroine yet. She is TSTL. I can't comprehend her level of selfishness, stupidity/naivety, and impulsiveness. She puts her probably hundreds if not thousands of Human and Talin lives in jeopardy, because she can't keep her promise not to visit her hobby gardening field. Even though she knows that they are days away from an inspection by the Committee for Pet Welfare. And that all the humans need to be model pets. Knows that it means wearing the collar and pet outfit, being with a Talin at all times, etc.
Instead she's just like, well I'm gonna do what I want, I'm sure it'll be fine. My damn hobby plants and anxiety thoughts are more important than the risk to everything.
And then her dumbass inability to speak up and communicate that she was not being abused. Just kinda of giving up and doing those I'll deal with that later.
Later learning that despite what the people of the Wimol colony agreed to, to move to Talin space and the warnings and instruction they were given on the Talin and the laws around Humans, you didn't bother to fully pay attention and listen or believe what you were being told.
This is why Humans are considered TSTL in this universe. People like her. You'd expect growing up a second class citizen and knowing how bad Humans had it out in the universe, that you would pay attention to anything that had to do with your safety. But no.
3 Chapters in and I'd throw this book across the room if I wasn't reading it on my phone.
Poor Ignatias, no wonder he doesn't believe her with his indoctrination.
And then as it progresses, he has this sudden personality shift, because he "gave in" to his lust and had sex with Kasi. Something he had just a few days ago said the other Talin's should be killed for and was the worst abuse.
Suddenly sex, made all the little doubt we didn't know about come forward and resolve in his mind to be pro Human/Talin pairings. Like fuck that, you don't have a fundamental shift like that in less that a day. Apparently Kasi has a magical vag, that can undone years of programming.
The only thing making this book bearable is the through story and Ignatias. Although he has been done dirty.
I wish a Gorg had eaten Kasi. And I thought Isla was a dumbass. Even with a Neuro-divergent brain you should have some critical thinking skills and self preservation.
What pisses me off the most about Kasi, is that she put 2 colonies and tons of beings at risk of horrible devastating outcomes, so she wouldn't feel "uncomfortable".
Like girl if you had to check your field, put your damn collar on, wear an omni over your work clothes and bring a Talin with you. You can be inconvenienced for a few days.
SO annoyed I'm writing a damn novel myself.
I'll probably finish for the through line and my own ND brain. Helps that I know it'll "work out".
Finished the book for the through line. That, the cameos of previous couples, and Ignatias was what got me through. Kasi never got at critical thinking, impulsivity, or anything really. She stayed TSTL and needs to be locked away on Sorana and kept away from all other Talin's. She's going to get someone killed, disowned, or sold. She is a completely childish, lalala girl.
I did like Ignatias' kids and the hope they represent for the future.
But still they have military oversight for at least a solar. Which means everyone on the colony is living on edge and it all goes back to Kasi. If she had done what she was supposed to have done and said she would. Ignatias' would have done his visit, wrote his report, and then gone off with his ship, leaving the colony alone to continue prospering.
Anything that comes about because of the military being at Sorana, is on Kasi's head.
Such a stupid, thoughtless, selfish, and childish woman. She will have no Ancestor's waiting for her!
April 20, 2024
3.5 stars
I’ve enjoyed most of the Talin books. It’s an interesting world and culture. However, some of the plots are feeling repetitive.
Kasi was an interesting MC, tall and anxious with a love of plants. Ignatius was protective, anxious, and passionate about human welfare. It was nice to see some body positivity going on, although I didn’t really understand why the aliens from Kasi’s home colony would tease her for her size when humans are supposed to be among the smallest species.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: kidnapping, suffocation, panic attack, flashback, attempted murder, space battle
I’ve enjoyed most of the Talin books. It’s an interesting world and culture. However, some of the plots are feeling repetitive.
Kasi was an interesting MC, tall and anxious with a love of plants. Ignatius was protective, anxious, and passionate about human welfare. It was nice to see some body positivity going on, although I didn’t really understand why the aliens from Kasi’s home colony would tease her for her size when humans are supposed to be among the smallest species.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: kidnapping, suffocation, panic attack, flashback, attempted murder, space battle
April 1, 2024
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was an awesome new book in the Human Pets of Talin series!
Ignatius and Kasi are perfect for each other. Every interaction was so sweet and adorable.
Ignatius arrived at the Sorana Colony for an inspection on behalf of the Committee of Pet Welfare. He has recently taken this position in the hopes that it will help him eventually get a human of his own. His character has a strong sense of justice. I think RK Munin did an absolutely amazing job show how the indoctrination every Talin is taught, affects their thoughts and actions. Ignatius is shown the happiness and affection of every human and Talin on the Sorana Colony. He has PTSD from childhood trauma that he subconsciously knows was caused by the rules and expectations enforced on young Talins. But he can’t accept that everything he has been taught for how things should be is wrong, because that would make the foundation of his world view crumble.
Kasi is a gentle and intelligent soul. She is incredibly knowledgable about botany and science in general (all self-taught). She values her community and longs to use her knowledge to benefit the people she loves. While the people of her community see Ignatius as the threat he is, she just wants to give him a hug. She has full belief that with a little convincing he will be on their side. It’s definitely naive of her, but I think that’s why her and Ignatius work so well. She believes in him and he wants to be someone she can believe in.
The overarching storyline between the reformists and the traditionalists is progressing. I have such hope for the political trajectory that is happening. But I hope all our beloved characters stay safe. I love them so much😭.
And for all the 🌶️ lovers out there. The 🌶️ scenes were hot. I definitely loved that lol.
I definitely recommend this book!!
This was an awesome new book in the Human Pets of Talin series!
Ignatius and Kasi are perfect for each other. Every interaction was so sweet and adorable.
Ignatius arrived at the Sorana Colony for an inspection on behalf of the Committee of Pet Welfare. He has recently taken this position in the hopes that it will help him eventually get a human of his own. His character has a strong sense of justice. I think RK Munin did an absolutely amazing job show how the indoctrination every Talin is taught, affects their thoughts and actions. Ignatius is shown the happiness and affection of every human and Talin on the Sorana Colony. He has PTSD from childhood trauma that he subconsciously knows was caused by the rules and expectations enforced on young Talins. But he can’t accept that everything he has been taught for how things should be is wrong, because that would make the foundation of his world view crumble.
Kasi is a gentle and intelligent soul. She is incredibly knowledgable about botany and science in general (all self-taught). She values her community and longs to use her knowledge to benefit the people she loves. While the people of her community see Ignatius as the threat he is, she just wants to give him a hug. She has full belief that with a little convincing he will be on their side. It’s definitely naive of her, but I think that’s why her and Ignatius work so well. She believes in him and he wants to be someone she can believe in.
The overarching storyline between the reformists and the traditionalists is progressing. I have such hope for the political trajectory that is happening. But I hope all our beloved characters stay safe. I love them so much😭.
And for all the 🌶️ lovers out there. The 🌶️ scenes were hot. I definitely loved that lol.
I definitely recommend this book!!
May 4, 2024
It helps if you’ve read one of the earlier books in the Human Pets of Talin series, but it isn’t required. The story engaged me from the first page and I read all night to finish it.
The story has political intrigue, mystery and a gradual uncovering of secrets—this world Munin has created is larger than life. It's more than romance and spicy scenes. It's solid world-building with strong characters. There are of course some spicy scenes but the book doesn’t center on that.
This story stars the female lead named Kasi (a human) and the male lead named Ignatius (a Talin). This universe has Earth destroyed by environmental disasters- huge floods by melting icecaps, chaotic weather and more has eroded any land masses on earth making it impossible for humans to live there. Humans travel into space, but are reliant on other races for survival as they have no true home world.
The Talins are a warlike race that dominates the galaxy. Talin are very tall, by human standards, and have hard plates that can be rattled as nonverbal cues (e.g. loud = upset, soft rhythm = purring, etc). Their mannerisms are the opposite of humans - stoic and regimented. This book centers on Kasi’s agricultural efforts on the new colony planet of Sorana. Difficulties arise when Ignatius arrives to “inspect” Sorana to ensure humans are being treated well. He gets upset at Kasi farming her land. He has the impression she is being forced to do so. Little does he know, she is a diehard botanist and loves all things plant related.
Talins are quite protective of humans and have categorized them as “pets”. This allows the touch-starved Talins to hug, kiss and just touch a human for comfort. Talins think humans need them, when in reality Talins have a great need for humans also.
I can’t wait to see what is next in the civil unrest brewing among the Talins. Five out of five stars for sure.
The story has political intrigue, mystery and a gradual uncovering of secrets—this world Munin has created is larger than life. It's more than romance and spicy scenes. It's solid world-building with strong characters. There are of course some spicy scenes but the book doesn’t center on that.
This story stars the female lead named Kasi (a human) and the male lead named Ignatius (a Talin). This universe has Earth destroyed by environmental disasters- huge floods by melting icecaps, chaotic weather and more has eroded any land masses on earth making it impossible for humans to live there. Humans travel into space, but are reliant on other races for survival as they have no true home world.
The Talins are a warlike race that dominates the galaxy. Talin are very tall, by human standards, and have hard plates that can be rattled as nonverbal cues (e.g. loud = upset, soft rhythm = purring, etc). Their mannerisms are the opposite of humans - stoic and regimented. This book centers on Kasi’s agricultural efforts on the new colony planet of Sorana. Difficulties arise when Ignatius arrives to “inspect” Sorana to ensure humans are being treated well. He gets upset at Kasi farming her land. He has the impression she is being forced to do so. Little does he know, she is a diehard botanist and loves all things plant related.
Talins are quite protective of humans and have categorized them as “pets”. This allows the touch-starved Talins to hug, kiss and just touch a human for comfort. Talins think humans need them, when in reality Talins have a great need for humans also.
I can’t wait to see what is next in the civil unrest brewing among the Talins. Five out of five stars for sure.
April 7, 2024
Kaci has been living on the human/Talin colony for a while now. She doesn't have a Talin but she loves being able to pursue her love of gardening and the overall safety of the colony. She read a bit about Talin society but doesn't really interact with any Talins outside of the colony. Ignatias is determined to get a human pet and decides that working for the pet welfare committee is the best way to get one. He finds a human out laboring and takes her to keep her safe.
Kaci is now forced to discover what it really means to be a human in the Talin society and Ignatias has to figure out that humans are much more than advertised. There is again an over protective Talin and some built in conflict with traditionalist in the Talin society. I felt that there was a lot of growth for Ignatias as a Talin in this story, his character takes time for reflection on his childhood and how things must be for the humans.
If you haven't read any of this series, this would be a good place to start. There are previous characters but everything else is explained during the story.
Kaci is now forced to discover what it really means to be a human in the Talin society and Ignatias has to figure out that humans are much more than advertised. There is again an over protective Talin and some built in conflict with traditionalist in the Talin society. I felt that there was a lot of growth for Ignatias as a Talin in this story, his character takes time for reflection on his childhood and how things must be for the humans.
If you haven't read any of this series, this would be a good place to start. There are previous characters but everything else is explained during the story.
May 11, 2024
Stealing Captivity
I really like how different this series is from other alien romance books. The premise of humans as pets is especially well flushed out, as well as what they provide for the Talins.
The Talin are such an up tight, funless society that making red flowers for fun is considered pointless.
“No Talin would ever think it was a worthwhile use of the time to cut stylized flowers out of red insulation except in the case of amusing a human. Humans let Talins do and feel all kinds of things they weren’t allowed.”
This is pretty much the premise of their whole relationship. What I like about this comparison, is that it reminds me of how the reader uses fantasy/sci-fi/romance to “do and feel all kinds of things they [aren’t] allowed”. We explore different ways of thinking and being, and input that opens our minds.
I really like how different this series is from other alien romance books. The premise of humans as pets is especially well flushed out, as well as what they provide for the Talins.
The Talin are such an up tight, funless society that making red flowers for fun is considered pointless.
“No Talin would ever think it was a worthwhile use of the time to cut stylized flowers out of red insulation except in the case of amusing a human. Humans let Talins do and feel all kinds of things they weren’t allowed.”
This is pretty much the premise of their whole relationship. What I like about this comparison, is that it reminds me of how the reader uses fantasy/sci-fi/romance to “do and feel all kinds of things they [aren’t] allowed”. We explore different ways of thinking and being, and input that opens our minds.
September 11, 2024
It was difficult to like the ML or understand the FLs attraction to him considering his bigotry at the beginning. It felt like one of those ww2 movies where a nazi falls in love with someone and suddenly they are totally fine with the people they saw as inferior before. The paradigm shift was a bit hamfisted and the FLs insta love was incomprehensible. If I wasn't so invested in the political stuff going on in the background I might not have finished this one.
Now that we are getting to book 6 I'm starting to get tired of the way Talins talk down to humans. At least the ML acknowledges how exhausting it can be to continuously have your opinions ignored even if you are being treated well.
It was also nice to get an insight into the cresh.
Now that we are getting to book 6 I'm starting to get tired of the way Talins talk down to humans. At least the ML acknowledges how exhausting it can be to continuously have your opinions ignored even if you are being treated well.
It was also nice to get an insight into the cresh.
November 19, 2024
Without the excitement of the new world-building, this one seems lackluster to me. I can't help but think maybe the series has run its course, it would be better to wrap it up rather than dragging it along.
One of my pet peeves is a doormat heroine pretending to be independent, all the insecurity and traumas only scratch the surface. It seems to me that both main characters choose each other because they are out of choices rather than developed romance organically or emotionally connected.
The last 20% is much better because of some actions taken and plots related to past events, not because I'm interested in the characters. So that's 2 stars for me, but 3 stars out of love for the author.
April 3, 2024
Sweet and spicy alien romance with a little adventure thrown in. I didn't enjoy this as much as the others (especially the origin ones - those are my favorite), but it was still a fun read. A little too sappy and scooby doo mystery this time for me. (Really? the bad guys laid out their plan just like that?? lol) It's a great premise/world though. So, I look forward to reading more books in the series and hope they suit my taste.
September 17, 2024
I thoroughly disliked both of these people. He was opiniated and stupid and she was just a waste of time making bad decisions. How can you endanger the colony by letting him go? Wouldn't it have been better to talk to you more reasonable people on the ground? Then after talking about how illegal it is to be together, they decide to do it on a strange ship among strangers who could SMELL them. I just could not with this book!! So disappointed....
March 30, 2025
Oh, what a fun read. Misconceptions and love abound in this wonderful story from R. K. Munin. I love this series. It has a few spicy scenes, but it has a great story line with excellent characters. I love the Talins! This is Ignatias and Kasi's story. He thinks she is being mistreated and worked to death and she is what he really needs. She is just trying to plant her garden. Well, you have to read it to know what happens after. I loved the story.
April 14, 2024
Great romantic sci fi adventure
Yes, there is adventure and humor and a wonderful story. I felt sorry for Ignatius in his previous appearance and was glad he was getting a human; his PTSD was well-written and believable. Kasi is funny and brilliant and loveable. There is graphic sex and some violence.
Yes, there is adventure and humor and a wonderful story. I felt sorry for Ignatius in his previous appearance and was glad he was getting a human; his PTSD was well-written and believable. Kasi is funny and brilliant and loveable. There is graphic sex and some violence.
April 19, 2024
Ok read. Kasi was childish and didn't have any depth. All she wanted was to farm and be with Ignatius. Bleh. Also the feeding and carrying and "taking care" of the humans the Talins do is bothering me. I love humans as pets but that level of care is belittling. MCs were good together. I don't know why this book just didn't hit the sweet spot for me.
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May 27, 2024Racist Heroes
I had to stop reading this author. Every single book she feels the need to say that light skinned humans are weak and more prone to disease. This guy even pulled up her sleeve to make sure she wasn't white. It doesn't matter to me what color my heroines are, but I do care when the heroes are racists. This author doesn't want me to read her books, which is fine.
I had to stop reading this author. Every single book she feels the need to say that light skinned humans are weak and more prone to disease. This guy even pulled up her sleeve to make sure she wasn't white. It doesn't matter to me what color my heroines are, but I do care when the heroes are racists. This author doesn't want me to read her books, which is fine.
August 14, 2024
I really do enjoy these books, even though they are basically the same story over and over again.
I really love the overarching storyline, and wish we would see more attention paid to it. With a species dying from lack of affection, and Civil War about to break out, I’d like to see more focus on those issues.
I really love the overarching storyline, and wish we would see more attention paid to it. With a species dying from lack of affection, and Civil War about to break out, I’d like to see more focus on those issues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2025
lots of icky things
2 was my Max for this series.
the books started being too vexing.
the women turn into children and the aliens don't have noses or ears so that's gross.
also, they are constantly rubbing oil into the fmc hair to the point it's dropping... Aewww
yeah nope. done.
2 was my Max for this series.
the books started being too vexing.
the women turn into children and the aliens don't have noses or ears so that's gross.
also, they are constantly rubbing oil into the fmc hair to the point it's dropping... Aewww
yeah nope. done.
April 15, 2024
Great Series
I have enjoyed the stories from the beginning! I enjoyed “nace” and Kasia’s relationship. I also enjoyed Ignatias a/k/a “nace” as he grew in his emotional responses and dealt with his childhood trauma. The on-going mystery was a nice tough as well. Great read.
I have enjoyed the stories from the beginning! I enjoyed “nace” and Kasia’s relationship. I also enjoyed Ignatias a/k/a “nace” as he grew in his emotional responses and dealt with his childhood trauma. The on-going mystery was a nice tough as well. Great read.
August 7, 2025
Ok, yay! The last book in this series wasn't my favorite, but the series bounced back with this one for me. I really enjoyed the introduction of the kiddos! And I liked the trustworthy botanist as a side character as well!!
April 13, 2024
I thought the heroine made some really dumb decisions. I liked the book overall.
April 13, 2024
This series always be making me giggle. It’s so freaking cute while also having a great storyline. Def recommend if you like alien romances.
April 16, 2024
Views can change
Misconceptions that are brought to light and how you can gently change opinions. This book you won't put down . can't wait for the next book.
Misconceptions that are brought to light and how you can gently change opinions. This book you won't put down . can't wait for the next book.
April 21, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I always enjoy any book that involves a human and their Talin. This was a great addition to the series and was a fantastic read. I am eagerly anticipating book seven.
I always enjoy any book that involves a human and their Talin. This was a great addition to the series and was a fantastic read. I am eagerly anticipating book seven.
September 10, 2024
least fav
Story of Ignatius (we met him in book 1) and Kasi, a human on Sorana. This was annoying all the way around.
Story of Ignatius (we met him in book 1) and Kasi, a human on Sorana. This was annoying all the way around.
February 15, 2025
why do i keep reading these books lmao, each one is the exact same
July 6, 2025
2.5☆ rounded up. My least favourite in the series so far.. Just a bit boring, innit? There was significantly less tension than the others and I kept dozing off.
May 18, 2024
This story had a lot of humor. Ignatius steals Kasi to save her from abuse only to realize that she was not being abused. She loved what she was doing and had been sneaking out to work in the fields. They had quite the tale to their HEA.
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