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Not Your Mama's Alien Romance #2
Zero Dark Bloodthirsty
The only thing worse than losing your life to an out-of-control space
virus?
Being the only one immune. It’s been weeks now of standing over my loved ones, watching them cling to life, willing their vitals to improve.
Weeks of helplessly watching my mate struggle to survive. There’s hope — a vaccine is on the way. But until then, it’s just me and my comatose friends. As if that isn’t enough torture, at night my imagination runs off with Ohem and leaves me a
sweaty, aching and unfulfilled mess in need of bone-crunching
distraction. Thankfully, I have a mission to focus find the high-tech resources my people buried deep in the bowels of this godforsaken planet and get us back
in this war. I wasn’t supposed to be a part of this, but now I’m here, I’m going
to make damn sure the Unity gets what’s theirs. Especially the sorry, underhanded, son-of-a-B who tried to take my mate from me... Zero Dark
Bloodthirsty is the second book in the Not Your Mama’s Alien Romance
series by Alisha Sunderland.
virus?
Being the only one immune. It’s been weeks now of standing over my loved ones, watching them cling to life, willing their vitals to improve.
Weeks of helplessly watching my mate struggle to survive. There’s hope — a vaccine is on the way. But until then, it’s just me and my comatose friends. As if that isn’t enough torture, at night my imagination runs off with Ohem and leaves me a
sweaty, aching and unfulfilled mess in need of bone-crunching
distraction. Thankfully, I have a mission to focus find the high-tech resources my people buried deep in the bowels of this godforsaken planet and get us back
in this war. I wasn’t supposed to be a part of this, but now I’m here, I’m going
to make damn sure the Unity gets what’s theirs. Especially the sorry, underhanded, son-of-a-B who tried to take my mate from me... Zero Dark
Bloodthirsty is the second book in the Not Your Mama’s Alien Romance
series by Alisha Sunderland.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2023
90 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Alisha Sunderland
4 books176 followersI started writing because I wanted to flip the script on some of my favorite tropes. I wanted tall, morally gray buff ladies who were the hero. I wanted the dragon shifter to be a girl who rescues the knight.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
June 3, 2023
I don't even know where to start with this. So many good things. Alisha Sunderland continues to impress me with the subversion of typical tropes and established gender norms in more explicit romance books and I could not be happier about it. These are just some of the highlights:
1. Jack continues to be one of my favorite female heroines. Just a girl who is unapologetically bloodthirsty. I feel like women in romance novels often wring their hands over harder choices and dirty work and it ends up coming off as really whiny. Jack is anything but. She makes the hard decisions and embraces her nature with a very no nonsense attitude. At times, it's a little gory but I think given the setting and plot, it fits. I love a girl who cleans up (metaphorically, not literally because there are a lot of guts strewn in this book). Also the revelation that Jack is a barbie girl makes me unbelievably happy. She deserves all the pink and glitter in the world.
2. I love Alisha Sunderland's secondary female characters. This is one of the best romance types I think she's upended and it makes me mad I've been reading books so long and never gotten it. Her female characters have such deep relationships and it's not all based on their conversations of men. Don't get me wrong, they definitely dish on sex and boys but their relationship is so much more. Jack truly appreciates her friends talents and personalities. They have bond formed in a high pressure environment and it truly is a pleasure to see how Sunderland fleshes them out on the side without them feeling like bit tokens. Also Jack's protective nature makes me feel things in my cold, dead heart.
3. AGA! Oh when he was first to wake up I was so excited. It's like the best buddy cop relationship. Ohem jokes that he should never let them conspire but oh boy I'm glad they do. It's really refreshing to have such a strong male-female relationship that's not sexual. And I love that not only does Aga respect the hell out of Jack, he truly revels in her bloodthirsty nature. The ultimate hype man.
4. I genuinely love the platonic pack bonds that form between core group. It really elevates side characters and has that found family feeling.
As far as drawbacks go, I would say very few. It was a little gory at times for my taste but that's a personal thing. I also struggled a bit with the military strategy in the middle of the book but mostly because there were certain tactical decisions they made that I didn't fully understand why they made them. Anyways this book is still a 5/5 for me. The author ramped up the spicy scenes which I loved and added a pretty in depth recap which I simply adored (why don't all authors do this, it was SO helpful).
DISCLAIMER: I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for a review. This does not influence any of the opinions I've expressed in the above review.
1. Jack continues to be one of my favorite female heroines. Just a girl who is unapologetically bloodthirsty. I feel like women in romance novels often wring their hands over harder choices and dirty work and it ends up coming off as really whiny. Jack is anything but. She makes the hard decisions and embraces her nature with a very no nonsense attitude. At times, it's a little gory but I think given the setting and plot, it fits. I love a girl who cleans up (metaphorically, not literally because there are a lot of guts strewn in this book). Also the revelation that Jack is a barbie girl makes me unbelievably happy. She deserves all the pink and glitter in the world.
2. I love Alisha Sunderland's secondary female characters. This is one of the best romance types I think she's upended and it makes me mad I've been reading books so long and never gotten it. Her female characters have such deep relationships and it's not all based on their conversations of men. Don't get me wrong, they definitely dish on sex and boys but their relationship is so much more. Jack truly appreciates her friends talents and personalities. They have bond formed in a high pressure environment and it truly is a pleasure to see how Sunderland fleshes them out on the side without them feeling like bit tokens. Also Jack's protective nature makes me feel things in my cold, dead heart.
3. AGA! Oh when he was first to wake up I was so excited. It's like the best buddy cop relationship. Ohem jokes that he should never let them conspire but oh boy I'm glad they do. It's really refreshing to have such a strong male-female relationship that's not sexual. And I love that not only does Aga respect the hell out of Jack, he truly revels in her bloodthirsty nature. The ultimate hype man.
4. I genuinely love the platonic pack bonds that form between core group. It really elevates side characters and has that found family feeling.
As far as drawbacks go, I would say very few. It was a little gory at times for my taste but that's a personal thing. I also struggled a bit with the military strategy in the middle of the book but mostly because there were certain tactical decisions they made that I didn't fully understand why they made them. Anyways this book is still a 5/5 for me. The author ramped up the spicy scenes which I loved and added a pretty in depth recap which I simply adored (why don't all authors do this, it was SO helpful).
DISCLAIMER: I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for a review. This does not influence any of the opinions I've expressed in the above review.
November 21, 2023
3.5⭐️ Still finding its way, but still a good read.
Okay.
So, I LOVED B1. Think, action-comedy, reminiscent of Die Hard [but in space 😎], in that the danger and violence is real, but the response and solutions are deliberate cringe-OTT, meant to be funny.
The heroine is a werewolf John McClane, not especially smart or talented, just mostly willing to take risks and hard to kill. 😅
They do what needs to be done, then return to a supporting role. Absolutely worked.
B2. She’s not smarter, or more talented, hasn’t suddenly matured or developed an interest in responsibility or leading. But she is now a special snowflake, who has access to extra special tech.
Sooo, she’s got the power. 😳🥱 it’s not working.
She now comes across as manic and childish, cringe in a not funny way, too often.
She’s walking through a M.A.S.H. like setup with wounded, dying, misery, and getting all teary…sees her friend she hasn’t spoken to for a day or 2, instantly happy, laughing, bouncing [her surroundings have not changed 😳].
Her lover is a career officer, lots of experience, understands the stakes, consequences, etc.. During an important strategy meeting with staff and allies [after a battle that left many dead, including a friend of his], they play sexual footsy undercover, until she orgasms [cause she couldn’t care less what’s being discussed, just tell her who to kill… 😵💫].
B1. She’s a female trucker, with that perfect balance between tough, rough, crude, but as feminine as she wants, when she wants.
B2. She’s tearing up at the drop of a hat, squeeing and spouting ‘I love you’s’, to all her besties, who she’s know for a week or so [and is only friends with through shared circumstances, not choice or personalities].
Plus, I can deal with a slight psychopathic heroine, even enjoy they’re sense of humour when it’s unapologetic and it fits.
But in B1 we have her enjoying her villainy, only to then experience the other side where her loved ones are harmed and dying at the end, but rather than growing from it or evolving at all, she immediately reverts back in B2 to immature, unknowledgeable enjoyment of war the moment everyone recovers. 🤔🤷♀️🙄
[Except for her teary moments of awareness [lasting seconds], or equally brief feelings of trauma, where we are supposed to sympathise with her, while ignoring her blatant hypocrisy and psychopathy. 🫠]
This is of course followed by another moment revelation…
The author is taking it too far this time and losing that magical balance.
Less Starship Troopers, more Spaceballs 2.
There’s also several historical and cultural references being given new interpretation’s [as you do in sci-fi], but doesn’t have the research or logic to make it work.
If you want to reinterpret history, you first need to know what it originally was, or you get all the nerds complaining that it doesn’t work. 🤓 [Mmmm, Matt Damon, ‘The Wall’, so much fun! ‘Stargate’. 🤩😍]
It still had moments of intense action, but these felt kinda long and drawn out, possibly as their inevitable outcome was never in doubt. Just needed some more character tension-balance.
The amazing one liners remain, but gone was any real angst [other than noticeably plot driven, but absolutely safe], lasting trauma, or noticeable character development, with all the leads ending up as ‘special’, and plot perfect.
To be honest, at times it read more like a really well written high schoolers fan-fic, each character representing one of their friends. 🥸😬
But, still giving it a decent rating. It is after all only her second book ever. The author deserves a chance to make some mistakes and learn from them.
Plus after hitting such a massive high on her first go, seems inevitable that there’d be some crashing. The potential for improvement was still there, so wait and see.
[Oh, be warned, it pulls a LOTR, having multiple endings, making you question, ‘are we there yet?’]
Ends on a softish cliffy. Third book as yet unpublished.
Okay.
So, I LOVED B1. Think, action-comedy, reminiscent of Die Hard [but in space 😎], in that the danger and violence is real, but the response and solutions are deliberate cringe-OTT, meant to be funny.
The heroine is a werewolf John McClane, not especially smart or talented, just mostly willing to take risks and hard to kill. 😅
They do what needs to be done, then return to a supporting role. Absolutely worked.
B2. She’s not smarter, or more talented, hasn’t suddenly matured or developed an interest in responsibility or leading. But she is now a special snowflake, who has access to extra special tech.
Sooo, she’s got the power. 😳🥱 it’s not working.
She now comes across as manic and childish, cringe in a not funny way, too often.
She’s walking through a M.A.S.H. like setup with wounded, dying, misery, and getting all teary…sees her friend she hasn’t spoken to for a day or 2, instantly happy, laughing, bouncing [her surroundings have not changed 😳].
Her lover is a career officer, lots of experience, understands the stakes, consequences, etc.. During an important strategy meeting with staff and allies [after a battle that left many dead, including a friend of his], they play sexual footsy undercover, until she orgasms [cause she couldn’t care less what’s being discussed, just tell her who to kill… 😵💫].
B1. She’s a female trucker, with that perfect balance between tough, rough, crude, but as feminine as she wants, when she wants.
B2. She’s tearing up at the drop of a hat, squeeing and spouting ‘I love you’s’, to all her besties, who she’s know for a week or so [and is only friends with through shared circumstances, not choice or personalities].
Plus, I can deal with a slight psychopathic heroine, even enjoy they’re sense of humour when it’s unapologetic and it fits.
But in B1 we have her enjoying her villainy, only to then experience the other side where her loved ones are harmed and dying at the end, but rather than growing from it or evolving at all, she immediately reverts back in B2 to immature, unknowledgeable enjoyment of war the moment everyone recovers. 🤔🤷♀️🙄
[Except for her teary moments of awareness [lasting seconds], or equally brief feelings of trauma, where we are supposed to sympathise with her, while ignoring her blatant hypocrisy and psychopathy. 🫠]
This is of course followed by another moment revelation…
The author is taking it too far this time and losing that magical balance.
Less Starship Troopers, more Spaceballs 2.
There’s also several historical and cultural references being given new interpretation’s [as you do in sci-fi], but doesn’t have the research or logic to make it work.
If you want to reinterpret history, you first need to know what it originally was, or you get all the nerds complaining that it doesn’t work. 🤓 [Mmmm, Matt Damon, ‘The Wall’, so much fun! ‘Stargate’. 🤩😍]
It still had moments of intense action, but these felt kinda long and drawn out, possibly as their inevitable outcome was never in doubt. Just needed some more character tension-balance.
The amazing one liners remain, but gone was any real angst [other than noticeably plot driven, but absolutely safe], lasting trauma, or noticeable character development, with all the leads ending up as ‘special’, and plot perfect.
To be honest, at times it read more like a really well written high schoolers fan-fic, each character representing one of their friends. 🥸😬
But, still giving it a decent rating. It is after all only her second book ever. The author deserves a chance to make some mistakes and learn from them.
Plus after hitting such a massive high on her first go, seems inevitable that there’d be some crashing. The potential for improvement was still there, so wait and see.
[Oh, be warned, it pulls a LOTR, having multiple endings, making you question, ‘are we there yet?’]
Ends on a softish cliffy. Third book as yet unpublished.
June 13, 2023
I love how this book started with a recap of the previous book 💕 I appreciated it SO MUCH since it helped me refresh some of my memories of the first book. This book expands on the wordbuilding and continues to build on the characters, especially with Jack and Ohem. The snark and the hilarity are absolutely top tier! There were some emotional moments in the book that I thought were pretty well done since they absolutely got me in my feels. I've said it with the first book but I am SO excited for the next book! I can't wait to see what Sunderland has for our beloved characters next 🫶
April 1, 2024
Bloodthirstiest FMC
There’s very little I can say that won’t spoil book 1, so imma keep it short.
I love that this edition of found family still lets Jack keep her OG family. Because who doesn’t need a clan of murdery monsters adopting them?
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: basically this book is dark AF, and has every trigger relating to war and violence. And I mean that very literally.
There’s very little I can say that won’t spoil book 1, so imma keep it short.
I love that this edition of found family still lets Jack keep her OG family. Because who doesn’t need a clan of murdery monsters adopting them?
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: basically this book is dark AF, and has every trigger relating to war and violence. And I mean that very literally.
February 20, 2024
The comedic balance achieved in the first book got a bit lost in this one. Hopefully it makes a comeback in later books.
Still just randomly ended and this time with many separate Cliff hangers.
Still just randomly ended and this time with many separate Cliff hangers.
June 15, 2023
****ARC Review****
Hooooboyyyy!!!! I didn't think the second book could top the first. We've gotten so many answers yet so many more questions. This world continues to expand in surprising and exciting ways! Both hilarity and savagery hit peak entertainment value in this sequel. The interactions between characters are full of deep connection, humor, and camaderie
It makes you care more and more about them all with every conversation and action. Not only between the heroine and mate but with everyone that meets her. It was well worth the wait! I will do a more spoiled filled review once it goes live. Everyone should get to experience every bit on their own. All I can say is buckle up!!! It's a wild ride and have plenty of batteries on hand!
Going to re re re re re re read it until the next!!!
Hooooboyyyy!!!! I didn't think the second book could top the first. We've gotten so many answers yet so many more questions. This world continues to expand in surprising and exciting ways! Both hilarity and savagery hit peak entertainment value in this sequel. The interactions between characters are full of deep connection, humor, and camaderie
It makes you care more and more about them all with every conversation and action. Not only between the heroine and mate but with everyone that meets her. It was well worth the wait! I will do a more spoiled filled review once it goes live. Everyone should get to experience every bit on their own. All I can say is buckle up!!! It's a wild ride and have plenty of batteries on hand!
Going to re re re re re re read it until the next!!!
June 4, 2023
ARC review - I got this as a free copy. And Oh, boy, am I excited about that!! This story is action-packed, with great humour, some very emotional moments, and the spice to 🔥 me up! 🥰 I will not go into storie details as that would be spoilers. But one thing that I can mention (and will 😎) is that I really liked the Recap part. There was a lot of stuff going on in the first book that I had already forgotten. So this really helped me to get back into this story where we have left. Only it should be titled "Previously on "American Warewolf In Space", because this book reads like a TV series. Am I right, or am I right?!🤣🤣
June 5, 2023
****ARC review****
Story starts with a freaking "recap" which I LOVED. Why don't more authors do "recaps" it's beyond me?! 🤔 It is a very useful tool in storytelling, especially when a long time has passed between reading the books.
This story made me laugh out loud 🤣, have goosebumps travel my body up and down on more then one occasion and I even got tears in my eyes (which I rarely have while reading).
I loved the friendships and love that they have for one another.
This was one of more millitary strategic packed books that I have read. I definitely love that in my sci-fi TV shows / movies, I like the visual aspect of it with all the blasts and space fight... but I do not see this in books, but that's on me 😅. So there's that. But I definitely loved all the blood and gore 😌😈 That is my kind of story.
All in all I loved it 😍 and I would definitely suggest it to others 👍👌
Story starts with a freaking "recap" which I LOVED. Why don't more authors do "recaps" it's beyond me?! 🤔 It is a very useful tool in storytelling, especially when a long time has passed between reading the books.
This story made me laugh out loud 🤣, have goosebumps travel my body up and down on more then one occasion and I even got tears in my eyes (which I rarely have while reading).
I loved the friendships and love that they have for one another.
This was one of more millitary strategic packed books that I have read. I definitely love that in my sci-fi TV shows / movies, I like the visual aspect of it with all the blasts and space fight... but I do not see this in books, but that's on me 😅. So there's that. But I definitely loved all the blood and gore 😌😈 That is my kind of story.
All in all I loved it 😍 and I would definitely suggest it to others 👍👌
June 4, 2023
***ARC REVIEW***
I honestly didn't think anything could top American Warewolf in Space, but man does this one deliver.
The story starts with Jack watching over her loved ones with the occasional slaughter and snackage before ramping up to a full scale battle.
One thing that Sunderland does better than any other author I can think of is depict the importance of platonic love. This is a constant core of the story and is found amongst top-notch world building, the brutality and grief of war, and super hot fun times.
This was a wonderful book and I cannot wait to see what's in store for this bunch!
I honestly didn't think anything could top American Warewolf in Space, but man does this one deliver.
The story starts with Jack watching over her loved ones with the occasional slaughter and snackage before ramping up to a full scale battle.
One thing that Sunderland does better than any other author I can think of is depict the importance of platonic love. This is a constant core of the story and is found amongst top-notch world building, the brutality and grief of war, and super hot fun times.
This was a wonderful book and I cannot wait to see what's in store for this bunch!
February 3, 2026
Fantastic
I am so happy that this series was recommended to me. I love ALL the characters. I love the world building. I love the friendships (Patty and Jack for life!!!). I loved the action. I laughed and I cried. I can't wait for the next adventure
I am so happy that this series was recommended to me. I love ALL the characters. I love the world building. I love the friendships (Patty and Jack for life!!!). I loved the action. I laughed and I cried. I can't wait for the next adventure
June 5, 2023
This book!! OMG!!!! What a series so far! And we are only on book 2.
I fell HARD for book 1. So fucking hard that I had to message the author and fan girl so hard😁
I love everything about the first book…EVERYTHING!!😍
Then the cliffy happened and I HAD to know what was coming next!
I’ve read this book while Alisha was writing, even through edits(and she’s done it all and got both books thoroughly edited) and now I was gifted an ARC copy so I could enjoy the fully polished yumminess😍 and I have to mention getting this gift on my birthday!!💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽
I am so far gone for the characters, Jack, Ohem, Patty, Rema, Callie, Sam and Aga. Even Dr Ghix the spider man😁 this found-family is everything I would want IRL and more! I love love love them endlessly.
And I have to praise the world building, the action packed pace, cleverly thought out other planets and peoples. The intro to another language. The sci-fi nerd in me has been fed via these awesome books.
Also let’s talk about the spice. Phew … the spice🥵 gawdddd the spice🤤 beautifully written and spaced out throughout. Ohem’s big dick is one for the books. Ask Jack, she’ll tell ya!😆
I am totally enchanted by Alisha Sunderland’s writing style. She’s now one of my top fav authors. And I will never stop hyping up these books. She deserves all the good best selling titles coming her way🥰
I can’t wait for Patty & Rema’s book. Also Callie and Sam😊 I am all the way in!!
If you want a badass FMC, a dominant alpha male MMC who has a sweet cinnamon roll side with awesome friends and a crew who will always have their backs, then this series is for you.
I’m so over the doormat, TSTL women being written. Its time to give us more women who are strong, badasses who know their worth but will still be partners with their mates. This is the type of fictional monster/alien romances I want to read!😊
I got lost in this world. And that’s why I read fictional romance books. These books are the perfect examples of why I love reading.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND this series. Anticipating book 3 with bated breath😄😍
I fell HARD for book 1. So fucking hard that I had to message the author and fan girl so hard😁
I love everything about the first book…EVERYTHING!!😍
Then the cliffy happened and I HAD to know what was coming next!
I’ve read this book while Alisha was writing, even through edits(and she’s done it all and got both books thoroughly edited) and now I was gifted an ARC copy so I could enjoy the fully polished yumminess😍 and I have to mention getting this gift on my birthday!!💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽
I am so far gone for the characters, Jack, Ohem, Patty, Rema, Callie, Sam and Aga. Even Dr Ghix the spider man😁 this found-family is everything I would want IRL and more! I love love love them endlessly.
And I have to praise the world building, the action packed pace, cleverly thought out other planets and peoples. The intro to another language. The sci-fi nerd in me has been fed via these awesome books.
Also let’s talk about the spice. Phew … the spice🥵 gawdddd the spice🤤 beautifully written and spaced out throughout. Ohem’s big dick is one for the books. Ask Jack, she’ll tell ya!😆
I am totally enchanted by Alisha Sunderland’s writing style. She’s now one of my top fav authors. And I will never stop hyping up these books. She deserves all the good best selling titles coming her way🥰
I can’t wait for Patty & Rema’s book. Also Callie and Sam😊 I am all the way in!!
If you want a badass FMC, a dominant alpha male MMC who has a sweet cinnamon roll side with awesome friends and a crew who will always have their backs, then this series is for you.
I’m so over the doormat, TSTL women being written. Its time to give us more women who are strong, badasses who know their worth but will still be partners with their mates. This is the type of fictional monster/alien romances I want to read!😊
I got lost in this world. And that’s why I read fictional romance books. These books are the perfect examples of why I love reading.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND this series. Anticipating book 3 with bated breath😄😍
June 15, 2023
Once again, Alisha hits it out of the ballpark and it’s an easy 5 stars from me.
Alisha notes that she wanted to flip the script, so that the heroines were the violent, strong, possessive animals in the story, and she has effortlessly achieved that. ‘Zero Dark Bloodthirsty’ is the second book in the ‘Not Your Mama’s Alien Romance’ series, and it’s a doozy. Once again I’ve highlighted way too many passages and have included a few of my favourite quotes at the end of my review. This isn’t a standalone story, and you need to have read her ‘American Werewolf in Space’ before this, even just for the that story on its own merit. It’s obvious she has taken immense care not only in crafting this world and its characters, but also throughout the editing process. As with the first book in the series, there really aren’t any negatives I can think of, which is a feat in and of itself. Jack is just as bloodthirsty and loyal here as before, with the same rashness and self-deprecating humour. I received an ARC of this and I’ve already read it twice, along with reading the first one again too. We see less of A’tens, and I missed him, which was the whole point because Jack was struggling with his absence too.
Apparently the next book will be about Patty and Rema, and while I’m super excited, I really would have liked another book about Jack and Ohem, maybe a dual-POV. As far as complaint go though, wanting more books doesn’t really count lol!
POV: The story is told from Jack’s POV again, but there’s enough engagement with the other characters that as someone who struggles with that ordinarily, I happily tumbled on through. There’s an epilogue that includes A’tens POV too, which I really appreciated.
Spice: Because we see less of Jack’s mate, we initially have less spice, but what we get is worth waiting for and heaps of fun. Alisha manages to make it adventurous and thrilling, rather than running through the same tired scenes.
Quotes:
Jack:
Blah, blah, blah, battle strategy, blah blah blah, casualties, blah, blah, blah, mad Rijitera, blah, blah, blah, Rakis.
The table was an unmovable object against Ohem’s unstoppable force, with me trapped in the middle at his mercy. And my mate had none. Each thrust was hard, punishing, fucking deep.
We were outnumbered and surrounded, and it was glorious.
General A’tens:
“She tries to steal my soul through my cock, drains me of a lifetime's worth of my seed, and now she demands I walk? My mate has no mercy.”
She was hope and light, a true gift that was often covered in the blood and gore of his enemies she’d dropped at his feet.
Alisha notes that she wanted to flip the script, so that the heroines were the violent, strong, possessive animals in the story, and she has effortlessly achieved that. ‘Zero Dark Bloodthirsty’ is the second book in the ‘Not Your Mama’s Alien Romance’ series, and it’s a doozy. Once again I’ve highlighted way too many passages and have included a few of my favourite quotes at the end of my review. This isn’t a standalone story, and you need to have read her ‘American Werewolf in Space’ before this, even just for the that story on its own merit. It’s obvious she has taken immense care not only in crafting this world and its characters, but also throughout the editing process. As with the first book in the series, there really aren’t any negatives I can think of, which is a feat in and of itself. Jack is just as bloodthirsty and loyal here as before, with the same rashness and self-deprecating humour. I received an ARC of this and I’ve already read it twice, along with reading the first one again too. We see less of A’tens, and I missed him, which was the whole point because Jack was struggling with his absence too.
Apparently the next book will be about Patty and Rema, and while I’m super excited, I really would have liked another book about Jack and Ohem, maybe a dual-POV. As far as complaint go though, wanting more books doesn’t really count lol!
POV: The story is told from Jack’s POV again, but there’s enough engagement with the other characters that as someone who struggles with that ordinarily, I happily tumbled on through. There’s an epilogue that includes A’tens POV too, which I really appreciated.
Spice: Because we see less of Jack’s mate, we initially have less spice, but what we get is worth waiting for and heaps of fun. Alisha manages to make it adventurous and thrilling, rather than running through the same tired scenes.
Quotes:
Jack:
Blah, blah, blah, battle strategy, blah blah blah, casualties, blah, blah, blah, mad Rijitera, blah, blah, blah, Rakis.
The table was an unmovable object against Ohem’s unstoppable force, with me trapped in the middle at his mercy. And my mate had none. Each thrust was hard, punishing, fucking deep.
We were outnumbered and surrounded, and it was glorious.
General A’tens:
“She tries to steal my soul through my cock, drains me of a lifetime's worth of my seed, and now she demands I walk? My mate has no mercy.”
She was hope and light, a true gift that was often covered in the blood and gore of his enemies she’d dropped at his feet.
June 10, 2023
Disclaimer: I received an ARC version. First of all, we get a recap in the beginning. Considering how much I read, this was such a nice touch for me to get me ramped back into where we last left off. This is an action packed series with your amped up ride or die power team that is out for revenge and blood. We’ve come a lot further than abducted damsels rescuing themselves in a new frontier to being smack dab in a full scale war on land and space. There’s struggle, diplomacy, “magic”, angst, loss, gore, fighting, f*€king, and an ultimate showdown.
The sheer imagination of the author in creating new alien races and forming a melting pot coupled with advanced alien technology was a delight to see what comes around the next corner. It was introduced as bite size information that didn’t overwhelm and kept me curious.
It is difficult to write my most favorite parts that doesn’t spoil anything. With book 2, I can’t tell you how many times I felt tingles of happiness, sadness, exhilarated in getting into Jack’s head space. IMO You would think the description of how blood thirsty Jack has been would get old. But it doesn’t, because it all came off quite naturally.
Overall, I enjoyed how plot driven these books have been. There were only a couple small issues I had with this book. But I will chalk it up to personal preference and it doesn’t take away from creative choices made. Also, I can understand other readers prefer a lot more spice. But I think the author’s attempt to appease with more spice worked well considering the heroes are in the middle of a war. Lastly, the build up from book 1 alluded to the book 2 ending was appropriate. Im too hyped for book 3!!!
The sheer imagination of the author in creating new alien races and forming a melting pot coupled with advanced alien technology was a delight to see what comes around the next corner. It was introduced as bite size information that didn’t overwhelm and kept me curious.
It is difficult to write my most favorite parts that doesn’t spoil anything. With book 2, I can’t tell you how many times I felt tingles of happiness, sadness, exhilarated in getting into Jack’s head space. IMO You would think the description of how blood thirsty Jack has been would get old. But it doesn’t, because it all came off quite naturally.
Overall, I enjoyed how plot driven these books have been. There were only a couple small issues I had with this book. But I will chalk it up to personal preference and it doesn’t take away from creative choices made. Also, I can understand other readers prefer a lot more spice. But I think the author’s attempt to appease with more spice worked well considering the heroes are in the middle of a war. Lastly, the build up from book 1 alluded to the book 2 ending was appropriate. Im too hyped for book 3!!!
June 16, 2023
Holy Jack and Ohem! What a ride!
Alisha is quite unique in her writing and story line. Loved the story as it gave us more detail and world building.
Here are my feelings about absolute awesomeness of this book:
1 - The recap! Why can’t every author do this? I really hate reading lines I have read before telling me all over again how a story started. This recap was expertly done and succinct. Freakin’ awesome!
2 - Our heroine! She is everything I love about strong women. She is loyal, she is protective beyond reason, she loves with all her heart, and she rips into the enemy like the true Berserker she is!
3 - Our hero - Ohem! SWOON! Ladies, we all need men who know where certain parts of our anatomy is located (with ease, I might add!!) and one who has uhm multiple appendages to give immense pleasure. All the while being just as protective and loyal to their mate, clan, crew, and people.
4 - Friends! I have read tons and tons of books but the connections these lot have are intense and so very beautiful. I can’t wait to read Patty put Rema’s people in their place! Mwahahaa!
5 - The reverse hunt scene WAS EPIC! Not saying more, you gotta read it. 😈
6 - The tech - after the underwhelming tech of the shark dudes… we finally get to have some cool tech. Go Rijiterans!
7 - OK, clearly I love everything and you should read it right away!
** ARC copy review **
I still bought it. 😍 Gotta own them all!
Alisha is quite unique in her writing and story line. Loved the story as it gave us more detail and world building.
Here are my feelings about absolute awesomeness of this book:
1 - The recap! Why can’t every author do this? I really hate reading lines I have read before telling me all over again how a story started. This recap was expertly done and succinct. Freakin’ awesome!
2 - Our heroine! She is everything I love about strong women. She is loyal, she is protective beyond reason, she loves with all her heart, and she rips into the enemy like the true Berserker she is!
3 - Our hero - Ohem! SWOON! Ladies, we all need men who know where certain parts of our anatomy is located (with ease, I might add!!) and one who has uhm multiple appendages to give immense pleasure. All the while being just as protective and loyal to their mate, clan, crew, and people.
4 - Friends! I have read tons and tons of books but the connections these lot have are intense and so very beautiful. I can’t wait to read Patty put Rema’s people in their place! Mwahahaa!
5 - The reverse hunt scene WAS EPIC! Not saying more, you gotta read it. 😈
6 - The tech - after the underwhelming tech of the shark dudes… we finally get to have some cool tech. Go Rijiterans!
7 - OK, clearly I love everything and you should read it right away!
** ARC copy review **
I still bought it. 😍 Gotta own them all!
January 4, 2024
So, so, so good!! Normally I don't enjoy cliffhangers, or multiple books with the same couple, but this was still engaging and exciting with lots of new developments and more time spent with both Jack and Ohem as well as the side characters that will take the lead in coming books.
Highly recommend this series for fans of Etta Pierce, Linnea Sinclair, Nalini Singh, and Mass Effect.
Highly recommend this series for fans of Etta Pierce, Linnea Sinclair, Nalini Singh, and Mass Effect.
September 14, 2024
¿Cómo coño me van a dejar así?!
Osea, el colmoooo.
Necesito que saquen ese libro para ayer.
* Ame todoooo. Chico, me encanta toda la historia, todos los personajes y todas las batallas.
Osea, el colmoooo.
Necesito que saquen ese libro para ayer.
* Ame todoooo. Chico, me encanta toda la historia, todos los personajes y todas las batallas.
December 21, 2023
These books are some of my favorite books ever. Nothing I could say would ever live up to reading them.
June 15, 2023
ARC review - I would say this is more like a 3.5 to me. It’s not nearly as satisfying as the first. It’s more like the Jack show, not the Jack and Ohem show. There’s not really any romance, just sex scenes when Ohem finally wakes up. The rest is just Jack fighting. Which got a little boring for me after a while.
The first book ends on a major cliffhanger, revealing that Jack’s mom drugged her. The 2nd book kinda forgets that happens until the very end. It’s disappointing. You’d think we’d jump right into that story but it’s barely a plot point.
As always, I loved the characters. The writing is great, if not a little too casual. But if you liked it in the first book, you’ll like it in this book.
It kind of ends on a cliffhanger? It definitely doesn’t feel like Jack’s story is over, and if it is that’s really silly. There’s so many open ended questions about her and her people. It was very disappointing when we got to the end and it seemed like a magic wand was waved and everything was exactly as planned or something.
I guess, at the end of the day, my main issue is that the story did not go in the direction it seemed like it was going. And it was much more action and hardly any adventure like the first book was. What I enjoyed so much about the first wasn’t really here in the second. But! I was still thoroughly entertained.
The first book ends on a major cliffhanger, revealing that Jack’s mom drugged her. The 2nd book kinda forgets that happens until the very end. It’s disappointing. You’d think we’d jump right into that story but it’s barely a plot point.
As always, I loved the characters. The writing is great, if not a little too casual. But if you liked it in the first book, you’ll like it in this book.
It kind of ends on a cliffhanger? It definitely doesn’t feel like Jack’s story is over, and if it is that’s really silly. There’s so many open ended questions about her and her people. It was very disappointing when we got to the end and it seemed like a magic wand was waved and everything was exactly as planned or something.
I guess, at the end of the day, my main issue is that the story did not go in the direction it seemed like it was going. And it was much more action and hardly any adventure like the first book was. What I enjoyed so much about the first wasn’t really here in the second. But! I was still thoroughly entertained.
January 14, 2026
I read this book like 3 times!
It picks up right after the 2nd book. It has way more gory fight scenes with a maniacally unhinged jack leading every time!
The storyline evolved so much! You learn so much about the Rijitera people and their history.
She is still the only one awake after the virus from the first book sickened her friends and Ohem. She's alone and learning about her history. Then she finds out all the advanced technology that was hidden away, and she's ready for a war. Jack is ready to unleash her fury and get revenge for the harm done to her friends and Mate. Alliances are made, a battle is fought, and a trip back to Earth proves to be a shocking and intriguing revelation!
What I loved about this book:
Jack and Aga's friendship develops more and strengthens so much. It's like watching siblings argue and always try to come out in top.
There is an epic battle scene in this book that has you on the edge of your seat!
And once again, Jack is just bad ass and indestructible! I LOVE how she is just the strongest. She fights with all her possessive loyalty and beats the shit out of anyone who dares stand in her way. I have not read another book where the FMC is unbeatable and the strongest there is. She doesn't try to lead or control the fights. She's perfectly okay being the murdery b*tch that she is.
Ohem and Jack are just *chefs 💋! They're obsessed with each other, so possessive but not controlling, sweet, hot, and I want it!!!
And Jacks friendships are something I want! She's so in love with her friends, and I would hate to be someone who makes the mistake of threatening her friends!
These 1st 2 books are my top 2 favorite reads of 2023!
It picks up right after the 2nd book. It has way more gory fight scenes with a maniacally unhinged jack leading every time!
The storyline evolved so much! You learn so much about the Rijitera people and their history.
She is still the only one awake after the virus from the first book sickened her friends and Ohem. She's alone and learning about her history. Then she finds out all the advanced technology that was hidden away, and she's ready for a war. Jack is ready to unleash her fury and get revenge for the harm done to her friends and Mate. Alliances are made, a battle is fought, and a trip back to Earth proves to be a shocking and intriguing revelation!
What I loved about this book:
Jack and Aga's friendship develops more and strengthens so much. It's like watching siblings argue and always try to come out in top.
There is an epic battle scene in this book that has you on the edge of your seat!
And once again, Jack is just bad ass and indestructible! I LOVE how she is just the strongest. She fights with all her possessive loyalty and beats the shit out of anyone who dares stand in her way. I have not read another book where the FMC is unbeatable and the strongest there is. She doesn't try to lead or control the fights. She's perfectly okay being the murdery b*tch that she is.
Ohem and Jack are just *chefs 💋! They're obsessed with each other, so possessive but not controlling, sweet, hot, and I want it!!!
And Jacks friendships are something I want! She's so in love with her friends, and I would hate to be someone who makes the mistake of threatening her friends!
These 1st 2 books are my top 2 favorite reads of 2023!
September 28, 2023
Ok, so last book was refreshing - the heroine gets kidnapped by aliens and she just kills them all. Very snarky, Kate Daniels homage. But it's kind of devolved. Lots of war scenes. Characters are changed significantly and randomly and it feels very rushed - Patty is changed into a lizardwoman, but has plant controlling powers. No one has any well rounded perspectives or thoughts; they kill and kill and no one thinks about who they're killing. There's very little internal dialog. There's lots of talking about how much they are family (found family), but they're not really building the ties, they're just stating they exist. I ended up not liking the characters at all, and the worldbuilding didn't really grab my imagination.
October 28, 2024
I need more! The refreshing take on roles and gender assumptions continue in this book. It's a wild ride that's lots of fun. I've recommended this series to everyone who will listen.
July 5, 2023
Do you know what's the definition of a book hangover? When you read a book so enthralling that it takes you days to come back to reality, and every book you read after that one is just not doing it for you? even books you know you would love if you were not in the worse book hangover you had had in a while.
That's the definition of what happened to me after reading this book, even when I thought I was prepared for it after reading book one. It took me a couple of weeks to organize my thoughts enough to develop a review that would make this book some justice; I gave up, so here we go.
Zero Dark Blood Thirsty is a steamy alien paranormal romance that takes readers on a captivating journey. From the very first page, this book delivers an intoxicating blend of sensuality, suspense, action, horror, and otherworldly hot-as-heck passion that keeps you hooked until the end. The book starts with a recap of book one; I was so excited that I started reading the synopsis to my husband. He politely (not) asked me to stop because he absolutely needed to read book one and didn't want any spoilers.
Ms. Sunderland skillfully weaves a complex and engaging plot filled with tension and unexpected twists. The interplay between the humans and our alien heroes is artfully crafted. The palpable chemistry between Jack and Ohem is enhanced by the inherent danger of the situation, making every stolen moment all the more thrilling. I love how Jack and Ohem are not perfect. They are multidimensional and flawed, making them relatable and easy to invest in emotionally. Their vulnerabilities and insecurities add a layer of authenticity to their connection, making their love story even more compelling.
The intimate scenes are scorching hot, but they are not mere gratuitous moments. Each encounter serves a purpose, deepening the emotional bond between Jack and Ohem and driving the plot forward. Ms. Sunderland combined explicit sensuality with tenderness and emotional vulnerability, creating a well-rounded and satisfying romantic experience that will leave you wanting more. The world-building is rich and imaginative, offering readers a glimpse into a captivating Rijitera civilization and its complex history and cultural dynamics.
I cannot wait to read about Rema and Patty's adventures and what will happen when the Rijitera returns from the dead.
That's the definition of what happened to me after reading this book, even when I thought I was prepared for it after reading book one. It took me a couple of weeks to organize my thoughts enough to develop a review that would make this book some justice; I gave up, so here we go.
Zero Dark Blood Thirsty is a steamy alien paranormal romance that takes readers on a captivating journey. From the very first page, this book delivers an intoxicating blend of sensuality, suspense, action, horror, and otherworldly hot-as-heck passion that keeps you hooked until the end. The book starts with a recap of book one; I was so excited that I started reading the synopsis to my husband. He politely (not) asked me to stop because he absolutely needed to read book one and didn't want any spoilers.
Ms. Sunderland skillfully weaves a complex and engaging plot filled with tension and unexpected twists. The interplay between the humans and our alien heroes is artfully crafted. The palpable chemistry between Jack and Ohem is enhanced by the inherent danger of the situation, making every stolen moment all the more thrilling. I love how Jack and Ohem are not perfect. They are multidimensional and flawed, making them relatable and easy to invest in emotionally. Their vulnerabilities and insecurities add a layer of authenticity to their connection, making their love story even more compelling.
The intimate scenes are scorching hot, but they are not mere gratuitous moments. Each encounter serves a purpose, deepening the emotional bond between Jack and Ohem and driving the plot forward. Ms. Sunderland combined explicit sensuality with tenderness and emotional vulnerability, creating a well-rounded and satisfying romantic experience that will leave you wanting more. The world-building is rich and imaginative, offering readers a glimpse into a captivating Rijitera civilization and its complex history and cultural dynamics.
I cannot wait to read about Rema and Patty's adventures and what will happen when the Rijitera returns from the dead.
June 12, 2023
I received an advanced copy for the purpose of leaving review, well that was the author's purpose. Mine was to devour the second book in a series I became addicted to on page two of book one. Let me tell you book two did not disappoint, Jack was every bit the badass as in book one, if not more so. I love the dichotomy of imagining the giant muscular woman ready, willing, and able to slaughter anyone who threatened the people she loves, yet will admit to loving all things girly, pink, and frilly. Jack is an awesome heroine and so much fun to read about. She has a heart as big as a planet when it comes to her "family/clan" loves children, and kitties even if they don't love her back. Oh and let's not forget her love for her mate Ohem. Why wouldn't she love him
he is also so much fun, I mean heck I love him, who doesn't love a giant alien with the pet name big bad, that is also an adorable history nerd.
Patty is back and more of a psycho than before, a feat that should be impossible. I don't question the tiny psycho I just thank the universe for such a wonderful gift. I also want to tell the Unity to start repenting of their evil ways and beg their various deities for mercy while they can. Because trust me the only mercy this bitch will show you is a painful, bloody, and maybe quick death. All of the newly added crazy Patty has been gifted is much appreciated by her great big, bashful alien. He wants nothing more than to have the tiny psychopath that's chosen to court him, climb him like a tree for the rest of their lives.
All of our favorite characters from book one have come back and I couldn't be happier because there's nothing better than a friend group of women, each with complementary strengths, ready, willing, and more than able to conquer the universe. This book was just as fun to read as the first, and I highly recommend both books. I can't wait until book three, and Patty's story!
he is also so much fun, I mean heck I love him, who doesn't love a giant alien with the pet name big bad, that is also an adorable history nerd.
Patty is back and more of a psycho than before, a feat that should be impossible. I don't question the tiny psycho I just thank the universe for such a wonderful gift. I also want to tell the Unity to start repenting of their evil ways and beg their various deities for mercy while they can. Because trust me the only mercy this bitch will show you is a painful, bloody, and maybe quick death. All of the newly added crazy Patty has been gifted is much appreciated by her great big, bashful alien. He wants nothing more than to have the tiny psychopath that's chosen to court him, climb him like a tree for the rest of their lives.
All of our favorite characters from book one have come back and I couldn't be happier because there's nothing better than a friend group of women, each with complementary strengths, ready, willing, and more than able to conquer the universe. This book was just as fun to read as the first, and I highly recommend both books. I can't wait until book three, and Patty's story!
January 8, 2024
Good
This means WAR! Jack’s found family is hurt, and Jack is more than ready to deliver retribution to her enemies.
With Ohem, Patty, Callie, Aga, Rema, and the rest in healing pods, Jack starts to learn a little more about her people, and about the Unity and the corruption now staining it.
With Rakis’ plans playing out, it’s up to Jack and her friends from preventing the Unity from killing another planet…
This was a fun book, much like the first one. Jack is a beast of a woman, one who is more than willing to do what it takes to protect what she considers HERS. I love her character so much, even her brutal and berserker sides- and when you put her in the same room as Aga, hilarity ensues!
Ohem is absent from the first half of this book, so once more we get to see Jack at her fiercest, but still being loyal to Ohem.
It was also pleasantly refreshing to see a character actually learning things- she might be a warrior, but she was definitely dedicated to learning as much as possible about her people and their ways.
In the end, I was disappointed only that the book ended, and we’d yet to see the rest of the Rijiterans get to do their things!
I was ecstatic that we did get to meet Jack’s family though, even if only briefly.
Ultimately, this is a dark sci-fi romance. The hero is monstrous, the heroine just as monstrous, and the things they’re dealing with are definitely on the dark side; add in some steamy sex scenes, and it’s probably best you pay attention to trigger warnings.
However, if you’re a fan of monster/alien romances, hardcore heroines, and series heavy on the sci-fi elements, then this is a fantastic read!
This means WAR! Jack’s found family is hurt, and Jack is more than ready to deliver retribution to her enemies.
With Ohem, Patty, Callie, Aga, Rema, and the rest in healing pods, Jack starts to learn a little more about her people, and about the Unity and the corruption now staining it.
With Rakis’ plans playing out, it’s up to Jack and her friends from preventing the Unity from killing another planet…
This was a fun book, much like the first one. Jack is a beast of a woman, one who is more than willing to do what it takes to protect what she considers HERS. I love her character so much, even her brutal and berserker sides- and when you put her in the same room as Aga, hilarity ensues!
Ohem is absent from the first half of this book, so once more we get to see Jack at her fiercest, but still being loyal to Ohem.
It was also pleasantly refreshing to see a character actually learning things- she might be a warrior, but she was definitely dedicated to learning as much as possible about her people and their ways.
In the end, I was disappointed only that the book ended, and we’d yet to see the rest of the Rijiterans get to do their things!
I was ecstatic that we did get to meet Jack’s family though, even if only briefly.
Ultimately, this is a dark sci-fi romance. The hero is monstrous, the heroine just as monstrous, and the things they’re dealing with are definitely on the dark side; add in some steamy sex scenes, and it’s probably best you pay attention to trigger warnings.
However, if you’re a fan of monster/alien romances, hardcore heroines, and series heavy on the sci-fi elements, then this is a fantastic read!
July 1, 2023
Can't Wait For More In This Series!
My first introduction to Alisha's books was American Werewolf In Space and I have to say I really loved it! In fact I loved it so much I contacted the author just to see if there was going to be another book and was extremely excited to hear a yes! LOL I like to say any wait for an anticipated book is wait torture but it was definitely worth it with this series!
I really love the characters in this series and the author keeps your attention through the whole book (which is really needed in great books) and I have to say I had a few chuckles while reading it!
Jack is one woman who you don't want to mess with. Especially since she's not exactly human and can grow her own weapons! While she waits for her friends to wake up she has time to learn a little more about herself and her people. With the help of the "computer" she does just that and finds some secrets that were left behind!
General At'ens brother is still at it. Wanting a war he thinks he can win but he has two problems....Jack and the General! If he thinks they are a problem just wait until they meet again because Jack will kick butt and take names! She's not one to back down and she really wants to see him again!
Being kidnapped was the best thing that could have happened to Jack and her 2 friends! I not only recommend this book but if you haven't read the 1st book to start there. I know this will be one series I will read again and again! I can't wait for the 3rd book!
My first introduction to Alisha's books was American Werewolf In Space and I have to say I really loved it! In fact I loved it so much I contacted the author just to see if there was going to be another book and was extremely excited to hear a yes! LOL I like to say any wait for an anticipated book is wait torture but it was definitely worth it with this series!
I really love the characters in this series and the author keeps your attention through the whole book (which is really needed in great books) and I have to say I had a few chuckles while reading it!
Jack is one woman who you don't want to mess with. Especially since she's not exactly human and can grow her own weapons! While she waits for her friends to wake up she has time to learn a little more about herself and her people. With the help of the "computer" she does just that and finds some secrets that were left behind!
General At'ens brother is still at it. Wanting a war he thinks he can win but he has two problems....Jack and the General! If he thinks they are a problem just wait until they meet again because Jack will kick butt and take names! She's not one to back down and she really wants to see him again!
Being kidnapped was the best thing that could have happened to Jack and her 2 friends! I not only recommend this book but if you haven't read the 1st book to start there. I know this will be one series I will read again and again! I can't wait for the 3rd book!
June 14, 2023
**ARC Review***
To start with, Alisha gives us a recap of An American Werewolf in Space, which MORE AUTHORS NEED TO DO!!!! There are so many times where there is an epic story that spans multiple books, and I am so lost at the beginning that it takes me at least 3 chapters to remember what the heck is happening!!! Thank you, Alisha!!!!!
We pick up with Jack all alone on her ancestral planet; her new found family kept in stasis pods so that they can heal from an aggressive and deadly virus. As her found family starts to wake up, Jack and the others prepare for war against the corrupted Unity.
This book is 90% battle. It's violence and bloodshed and fury. The other 10% is smut and hugs. That's it. Am I complaining? Not at all! I loved that we got to see more feral Jack!!! We don't get Ohem back until about 45-50% of the way through, and I missed that dynamic. I wanted more Patty, more Sam, and more Callie. The characters have such great interactions that the first half of the book definitely seemed a little lacking without it.
I loved the new characters, I loved the Ritijera history, I loved the tech, and I loved the battle. I can't wait for more. We'll get Patty and Rema's book next, so you know that's going to be fun! Can't wait to see the hellfire that the Ritijerans bring to the Unity!!!
To start with, Alisha gives us a recap of An American Werewolf in Space, which MORE AUTHORS NEED TO DO!!!! There are so many times where there is an epic story that spans multiple books, and I am so lost at the beginning that it takes me at least 3 chapters to remember what the heck is happening!!! Thank you, Alisha!!!!!
We pick up with Jack all alone on her ancestral planet; her new found family kept in stasis pods so that they can heal from an aggressive and deadly virus. As her found family starts to wake up, Jack and the others prepare for war against the corrupted Unity.
This book is 90% battle. It's violence and bloodshed and fury. The other 10% is smut and hugs. That's it. Am I complaining? Not at all! I loved that we got to see more feral Jack!!! We don't get Ohem back until about 45-50% of the way through, and I missed that dynamic. I wanted more Patty, more Sam, and more Callie. The characters have such great interactions that the first half of the book definitely seemed a little lacking without it.
I loved the new characters, I loved the Ritijera history, I loved the tech, and I loved the battle. I can't wait for more. We'll get Patty and Rema's book next, so you know that's going to be fun! Can't wait to see the hellfire that the Ritijerans bring to the Unity!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2023
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
And I absolutely loved it!
I accidentally found out about this series because of some *spicy* reddit fanart, and I became interested immediately.
This sequel is just as good as the first book. The battle scenes were beautifully written (as in bloody and realistic, but without going so much into strategics that it becomes boring).
The characters were just as lovely as in the first book (and to be honest it felt like meeting up again with a group of friends), and the couples too! Looking forward to third book, since I heard it’s gonna be Patty and Rema.
Also, an important thing to me which I forgot to mention was that Jack, even though she’s strong, she still has to work and fight to better herself. She’s not handed anything just because, and we get to see her grow even more in this book, which is wholesome.
Oh and let’s not forget about the spice. The spicy scenes are just 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ I wish human men had appendages like Ohem’s, let’s just say.
The only very small negative thing I have to say is that the beginning of Ohem’s first chapter near the end is slightly confusing (pronoun switching from third person to second person, while referring to the same thing, for example). But that didn’t take anything away from me enjoying the book.
And now I’m left hanging until the next book 🙃
And I absolutely loved it!
I accidentally found out about this series because of some *spicy* reddit fanart, and I became interested immediately.
This sequel is just as good as the first book. The battle scenes were beautifully written (as in bloody and realistic, but without going so much into strategics that it becomes boring).
The characters were just as lovely as in the first book (and to be honest it felt like meeting up again with a group of friends), and the couples too! Looking forward to third book, since I heard it’s gonna be Patty and Rema.
Also, an important thing to me which I forgot to mention was that Jack, even though she’s strong, she still has to work and fight to better herself. She’s not handed anything just because, and we get to see her grow even more in this book, which is wholesome.
Oh and let’s not forget about the spice. The spicy scenes are just 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ I wish human men had appendages like Ohem’s, let’s just say.
The only very small negative thing I have to say is that the beginning of Ohem’s first chapter near the end is slightly confusing (pronoun switching from third person to second person, while referring to the same thing, for example). But that didn’t take anything away from me enjoying the book.
And now I’m left hanging until the next book 🙃
August 14, 2023
Zero Dark Bloodthirsty
The story is definitely not over, but this one wasn't a cliffhanger like the first book. Really, I have a hard time thinking of this as a romance, and here's why (spoilers):
The hero was in a coma for the first about 50% of the book, so other than some "gosh, I sure wish he'd wake up," and, "shucks, I sure miss him," kind of comments he wasn't really a part of the story. For. Half. Of. The. Book. Also, the first 70% of the book was mostly battle. Really graphic, excellently gory, superbly violent battle. There was one spicy passage. Then more war council and more battle. I enjoyed the story very much, just think calling it a romance is like if you had a mystery novel and mixed in all the murder and intrigue the main characters had a couple of discussions about the meaning of life and someone decided to label it a treatise on philosophy. The last bit of the book had a pinch of spice before it went back to talking about the rebellion, so I guess you could call it an incredibly slow burn romance-ish? A space opera with an R rating? An alien horror story/comedy/adventure with adult themes?
All that aside, I didn't notice as many typos in this one, I still adore all of the main characters, the story was excellent, the spice is still mild and of the fairly vanilla variety.
The story is definitely not over, but this one wasn't a cliffhanger like the first book. Really, I have a hard time thinking of this as a romance, and here's why (spoilers):
The hero was in a coma for the first about 50% of the book, so other than some "gosh, I sure wish he'd wake up," and, "shucks, I sure miss him," kind of comments he wasn't really a part of the story. For. Half. Of. The. Book. Also, the first 70% of the book was mostly battle. Really graphic, excellently gory, superbly violent battle. There was one spicy passage. Then more war council and more battle. I enjoyed the story very much, just think calling it a romance is like if you had a mystery novel and mixed in all the murder and intrigue the main characters had a couple of discussions about the meaning of life and someone decided to label it a treatise on philosophy. The last bit of the book had a pinch of spice before it went back to talking about the rebellion, so I guess you could call it an incredibly slow burn romance-ish? A space opera with an R rating? An alien horror story/comedy/adventure with adult themes?
All that aside, I didn't notice as many typos in this one, I still adore all of the main characters, the story was excellent, the spice is still mild and of the fairly vanilla variety.
June 11, 2025
Still fun, more gory than before with a few moving moments.
Jack was still a bloodthirsty psycho, but with her mate and friends in stasis healing from the deadly virus and later the beginning of the war had moments that showed she had depth. The time she spent on the dead planet with her sick, unconscious family were hard for her, and the scene with Aga waking up was so cute that it made me tear up a bit. He was like her crazy, violent brother from another mother, I loved that crocodile.
The war started bloody and gory, it was great! Maybe a bit repetitive on the second day, but it wouldn't be a high stakes war if they won after one skirmish. The poor civilians, it was brutal. Jack and Ohem with little Lorys were very moving, they should adopt the boy.
I loved all the crew again, Rema, Patty, Callie, Sam and Aga are great family for Ohem and Jack. They all cared deeply for each other even though they are all so different, not only with all the alien species, but temperaments. For the girls it started with a trauma bond, but I feel like they built upon it, especially with Sam and Jack, Sam kept her sane in the weeks she spent planetside only with unconscious people around her.
The ending was so disappointing, not because it was bad, but because poor Jack didn't get a huge entrance and surprise she wanted. I was gutted for her.
Jack was still a bloodthirsty psycho, but with her mate and friends in stasis healing from the deadly virus and later the beginning of the war had moments that showed she had depth. The time she spent on the dead planet with her sick, unconscious family were hard for her, and the scene with Aga waking up was so cute that it made me tear up a bit. He was like her crazy, violent brother from another mother, I loved that crocodile.
The war started bloody and gory, it was great! Maybe a bit repetitive on the second day, but it wouldn't be a high stakes war if they won after one skirmish. The poor civilians, it was brutal. Jack and Ohem with little Lorys were very moving, they should adopt the boy.
I loved all the crew again, Rema, Patty, Callie, Sam and Aga are great family for Ohem and Jack. They all cared deeply for each other even though they are all so different, not only with all the alien species, but temperaments. For the girls it started with a trauma bond, but I feel like they built upon it, especially with Sam and Jack, Sam kept her sane in the weeks she spent planetside only with unconscious people around her.
The ending was so disappointing, not because it was bad, but because poor Jack didn't get a huge entrance and surprise she wanted. I was gutted for her.
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