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Hearts With Teeth #1
Colossal: Dark Romance in Deep Space
The predatory alien blood in Orion Halen’s veins makes him dangerous. Volatile. Addictive. But desire burns brightest in the depths of darkness... And the fall can feel so good.
Kaia never imagined her lifelong mission would lead to this: a sacrificial lamb on a colony ship, chosen to bear an heir for the ship’s ruthless soon-to-be commander. To Orion Halen, she’s a means to an end—a piece to play in his twisted game. But Kaia is no ordinary pawn.
Even as their machinations intertwine and secrets grow deep, an insatiable attraction takes root. Their dance of power and seduction blurs the lines between pleasure and pain. There’s a cruel lure in Orion's glacial eyes. A mere touch threatens to expose a hunger Kaia can’t afford to let herself indulge, because she’s hunting for something far more precious than her own survival. But desire burns brightest in the depths of darkness... And it's so tempting to give in.
Colossal: Dark Romance in Deep Space is a steamy science fiction romance novel where morally gray protagonists navigate treacherous desires in a slow burn that satisfies the senses and leaves the reader aching for more.
Kaia never imagined her lifelong mission would lead to this: a sacrificial lamb on a colony ship, chosen to bear an heir for the ship’s ruthless soon-to-be commander. To Orion Halen, she’s a means to an end—a piece to play in his twisted game. But Kaia is no ordinary pawn.
Even as their machinations intertwine and secrets grow deep, an insatiable attraction takes root. Their dance of power and seduction blurs the lines between pleasure and pain. There’s a cruel lure in Orion's glacial eyes. A mere touch threatens to expose a hunger Kaia can’t afford to let herself indulge, because she’s hunting for something far more precious than her own survival. But desire burns brightest in the depths of darkness... And it's so tempting to give in.
Colossal: Dark Romance in Deep Space is a steamy science fiction romance novel where morally gray protagonists navigate treacherous desires in a slow burn that satisfies the senses and leaves the reader aching for more.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 7, 2023
12 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Alexandra Norton
13 books30 followersAlexandra Norton writes steamy, high-concept science fiction romance that leans dark.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
October 15, 2023
One of the most original sci-fy stories I’ve read in a long time. “Hearts with teeth” is an apt title.
She was about to go from a malnourished scavenger to the commander’s wife on the biggest colony ship in the universe.
Dystopian/futuristic
Spaceship that runs on genetics
Power dynamics
Morally grey characters
Addictive serum in tongue and peen spikes
Size differences
Unique reincarnation
Ends on a cliffhanger
This story is DARK and that will sneak up on you when you least expect it.
His body was just a sleeve for the thing within. The way he had moved, watched—shit, the way he breathed—was other. Alien.
She was about to go from a malnourished scavenger to the commander’s wife on the biggest colony ship in the universe.
Dystopian/futuristic
Spaceship that runs on genetics
Power dynamics
Morally grey characters
Addictive serum in tongue and peen spikes
Size differences
Unique reincarnation
Ends on a cliffhanger
This story is DARK and that will sneak up on you when you least expect it.
His body was just a sleeve for the thing within. The way he had moved, watched—shit, the way he breathed—was other. Alien.
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October 9, 2023
I'm not often impressed by the random books I'll come across and download when checking out new releases. In fact, I usually DNF within the first three pages. But this one had me HOOKED.
Basically, we have a futuristic world where Earth has long been uninhabitable, so humans have two choices - they can either eke out a difficult existence on random planets or live in one of the massive spaceships that roam the universe looking for a 'New Earth'. Kaia is one of the former. Orion is one of the latter. In fact, as the son of the current leader of the spaceship Colossal, he's the only person able to take over from his mother when she dies - as the ship's controls are keyed to his family's genes exclusively. If he doesn't take over, all the thousands of people on board will die.
No pressure.
Kaia and Orion run into each other planetside, and each recognises an opportunity in the other. For Orion, it's a chance to score one off his mother by bringing home a completely unsuitable bride. For Kaia, Orion represents her ticket... to death. But soon they begin to surprise each other.
I really liked the characterisation in this one. Both Orion and Kaia are morally grey characters, but in different ways, and seeing them navigate their budding relationship was interesting. The worldbuilding is also excellent - frankly, tons better than I expected. My one warning for anyone reading this is that the ending is quite... abrupt. In the long run, I think our characters will be fine, but this isn't the usual HEA (or even HFN) ending...
Basically, we have a futuristic world where Earth has long been uninhabitable, so humans have two choices - they can either eke out a difficult existence on random planets or live in one of the massive spaceships that roam the universe looking for a 'New Earth'. Kaia is one of the former. Orion is one of the latter. In fact, as the son of the current leader of the spaceship Colossal, he's the only person able to take over from his mother when she dies - as the ship's controls are keyed to his family's genes exclusively. If he doesn't take over, all the thousands of people on board will die.
No pressure.
Kaia and Orion run into each other planetside, and each recognises an opportunity in the other. For Orion, it's a chance to score one off his mother by bringing home a completely unsuitable bride. For Kaia, Orion represents her ticket... to death. But soon they begin to surprise each other.
I really liked the characterisation in this one. Both Orion and Kaia are morally grey characters, but in different ways, and seeing them navigate their budding relationship was interesting. The worldbuilding is also excellent - frankly, tons better than I expected. My one warning for anyone reading this is that the ending is quite... abrupt. In the long run, I think our characters will be fine, but this isn't the usual HEA (or even HFN) ending...
October 12, 2023
Major Trigger Warning
This book has martial SA 88% in. I doubled checked for trigger warnings at the front and on the listing, which had none. I went back through the scene and it's not dub-con, it's straight SA with violence. The MFC accepts it because she thinks it's appropriate punishment and she's never had any encounters with anyone that didn't involve pain based on later information.
Due to the lack of trigger warnings and how the encounter plays out afterwards, I've dropped 2 stars. There is dark romance and then there is just violence.
Cancer death, sibling death, parental death, institutionalized suicide, low fertility are some other trigger warnings
Spoilers after this
The progression of their relationship flows well until the last 12 percent of the book. After that, things seem to get glossed over and rushed. This is a decently long book, but the conflict and resolution needed more time. The book then ends on a potential violent cliffhanger.
Overall I like the story, characters, universe, technology, space travel. The violence at the end followed by rushed resolution then cliffhanger just took away from the enjoyment of the book and left a sour taste in my mouth.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book has martial SA 88% in. I doubled checked for trigger warnings at the front and on the listing, which had none. I went back through the scene and it's not dub-con, it's straight SA with violence. The MFC accepts it because she thinks it's appropriate punishment and she's never had any encounters with anyone that didn't involve pain based on later information.
Due to the lack of trigger warnings and how the encounter plays out afterwards, I've dropped 2 stars. There is dark romance and then there is just violence.
Cancer death, sibling death, parental death, institutionalized suicide, low fertility are some other trigger warnings
Spoilers after this
The progression of their relationship flows well until the last 12 percent of the book. After that, things seem to get glossed over and rushed. This is a decently long book, but the conflict and resolution needed more time. The book then ends on a potential violent cliffhanger.
Overall I like the story, characters, universe, technology, space travel. The violence at the end followed by rushed resolution then cliffhanger just took away from the enjoyment of the book and left a sour taste in my mouth.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 2, 2023
Hearts with teeth book #1 was awesome. 5⭐️.
I just finished #0 and loved it! Both are stand-alones in case you’re wondering. I worried Orion would be too much for me and I was wrong. I’m new to dark romance and his whole being was bigger than life. He was dangerous and literally additive. Kaia was everything I like to see in a strong female. This was a slow burn which I loved as I got to know these two and I completely fell for the romance. The world building was good and I can’t wait for the next one. Really good.
Thanks Booksirens
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I just finished #0 and loved it! Both are stand-alones in case you’re wondering. I worried Orion would be too much for me and I was wrong. I’m new to dark romance and his whole being was bigger than life. He was dangerous and literally additive. Kaia was everything I like to see in a strong female. This was a slow burn which I loved as I got to know these two and I completely fell for the romance. The world building was good and I can’t wait for the next one. Really good.
Thanks Booksirens
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 12, 2025
4.5 STARS!
Absolutely worth reading . . . Colossal satisfied my dark sci-fi loving heart with its well fleshed-out characters whose chemistry sizzled on the pages. I loved how the slow-burn relationship between Orion and Kaia unfolded in parallel with the overarching story, and I'm eager to continue this saga with Alina as the FMC - on to the next!
Absolutely worth reading . . . Colossal satisfied my dark sci-fi loving heart with its well fleshed-out characters whose chemistry sizzled on the pages. I loved how the slow-burn relationship between Orion and Kaia unfolded in parallel with the overarching story, and I'm eager to continue this saga with Alina as the FMC - on to the next!
September 12, 2023
Halfway through, and this story has me hooked. Two characters that seem polar opposites in every way, but both are intriguing in themselves. Where the storyline is heading I can only guess at, but I’m along for the ride.
Update-have to say these two characters are well suited to each other. Both selfish, wanting things to suit themselves. Both mentally traumatised by past deeds. Both emotionally challenged. This was a roller coaster ride of intrigue, with Orian’s mother causing chaos as she dies. This book ends with a cliff hanger, so be prepared.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Update-have to say these two characters are well suited to each other. Both selfish, wanting things to suit themselves. Both mentally traumatised by past deeds. Both emotionally challenged. This was a roller coaster ride of intrigue, with Orian’s mother causing chaos as she dies. This book ends with a cliff hanger, so be prepared.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2023
“Her monster had taken her back to his lair.”
Let me start with a warning, this book ends with a series cliffhanger that is a serious doozy. I’m talking, fighting the desire to throw my tablet at the wall, how can you do this to me, Alexandra ending. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t prepared for it to end like it did, especially with no date available for when the next book will be published. Also, when she says this book is the darkest she’s ever written, believe her. And it’s long. Sixty five chapters, almost 400 pages. If you are looking for a light read, this is not it. You are going to get sucked in to so much action and emotion, plus you’re going to need a full box of tissues. I’m not going into any details of anything specific because I want everyone to have the chance to read this book blind. It’s like peeling an onion, layer by layer, with lots of tears. Alexandra is a truly gifted storyteller and this is another amazing example. Now if she’ll just publish the next book quickly, I just might be able to forgive her for leaving me the way she did here.
Let me start with a warning, this book ends with a series cliffhanger that is a serious doozy. I’m talking, fighting the desire to throw my tablet at the wall, how can you do this to me, Alexandra ending. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t prepared for it to end like it did, especially with no date available for when the next book will be published. Also, when she says this book is the darkest she’s ever written, believe her. And it’s long. Sixty five chapters, almost 400 pages. If you are looking for a light read, this is not it. You are going to get sucked in to so much action and emotion, plus you’re going to need a full box of tissues. I’m not going into any details of anything specific because I want everyone to have the chance to read this book blind. It’s like peeling an onion, layer by layer, with lots of tears. Alexandra is a truly gifted storyteller and this is another amazing example. Now if she’ll just publish the next book quickly, I just might be able to forgive her for leaving me the way she did here.
December 28, 2023
I was given this book to read as an ARC but my review is freely given and my own.
The writing, world building, and character development is ON POINT. It's so immersive, paced well, well shown characters, etc. The story and characters are very dark however.
I think this is an amazingly well written sci fi novel but the fact that it's romance too? *Chef's kiss*
The writing, world building, and character development is ON POINT. It's so immersive, paced well, well shown characters, etc. The story and characters are very dark however.
I think this is an amazingly well written sci fi novel but the fact that it's romance too? *Chef's kiss*
February 2, 2024
FMC: Kaia
MMC(s): Orion
Tropes: Morally grey MMC, Survivor FMC, Fake dating
> Reviewer add: Alien physiology
Perspective: Third person
Plot or character driven: Both
Spicy scenes breakdown:
> Present? Yes.
> Detailed? Yes.
> With only one character? Yes.
> Multiple, with both/multiple characters? Yes.
> State of the joystick? It has spikes.
Burn speed: Slow.
Can this be read as a stand-alone: Yes, but I want more of the series.
Re-Readability: High, even though this is fairly decent sized.
Monster level: 1 - Alien.
Content/Trigger Warnings/Enticements: Extensive. Addiction, dubious consent (including a scene that could be considered SA), rough sex, disordered eating, genetic modification, class differences, aphrodisiac/addictive bodily fluids, familial loss.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book, and this is my voluntary, honest review.
Y’all know I suck at a plot synopsis. So, Maia is a pilot that needs to make a certain amount of coin so she can meet up with her little brother in the afterlife. Orion needs someone that will pretend to be his fiance with his mother. Hello fake dating. Now, Orion is part alien, and that little bit of alien makes him a lot alien from regular humans.
This world folded me up in a little cocoon, and I was so upset upon emerging that I HAD NO OTHER BOOKS BY THIS AUTHOR TO READ. Just writing this I want to go back and read it again. This is somewhere between the darkest parts of Battlestar Galactica and Klingon mating rituals, which makes this a bit darker than most of the other books I read, but no less enjoyable. The sense of heaviness, the fleet that’s trying to survive – yes. And then you have the interplay between Orion and Maia, and it’s not necessarily a healthy relationship, but it’s as flawed as the people within it.
This is a dark sci-fi story and for some people it’s going to be too dark. However, it was just the perfect amount for me, and it’s a very enthusiastic thumbs up.
MMC(s): Orion
Tropes: Morally grey MMC, Survivor FMC, Fake dating
> Reviewer add: Alien physiology
Perspective: Third person
Plot or character driven: Both
Spicy scenes breakdown:
> Present? Yes.
> Detailed? Yes.
> With only one character? Yes.
> Multiple, with both/multiple characters? Yes.
> State of the joystick? It has spikes.
Burn speed: Slow.
Can this be read as a stand-alone: Yes, but I want more of the series.
Re-Readability: High, even though this is fairly decent sized.
Monster level: 1 - Alien.
Content/Trigger Warnings/Enticements: Extensive. Addiction, dubious consent (including a scene that could be considered SA), rough sex, disordered eating, genetic modification, class differences, aphrodisiac/addictive bodily fluids, familial loss.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book, and this is my voluntary, honest review.
Y’all know I suck at a plot synopsis. So, Maia is a pilot that needs to make a certain amount of coin so she can meet up with her little brother in the afterlife. Orion needs someone that will pretend to be his fiance with his mother. Hello fake dating. Now, Orion is part alien, and that little bit of alien makes him a lot alien from regular humans.
This world folded me up in a little cocoon, and I was so upset upon emerging that I HAD NO OTHER BOOKS BY THIS AUTHOR TO READ. Just writing this I want to go back and read it again. This is somewhere between the darkest parts of Battlestar Galactica and Klingon mating rituals, which makes this a bit darker than most of the other books I read, but no less enjoyable. The sense of heaviness, the fleet that’s trying to survive – yes. And then you have the interplay between Orion and Maia, and it’s not necessarily a healthy relationship, but it’s as flawed as the people within it.
This is a dark sci-fi story and for some people it’s going to be too dark. However, it was just the perfect amount for me, and it’s a very enthusiastic thumbs up.
December 21, 2023
Finally! A book that combines my love of Sci-fi (without glossing over the details or world building) with my love of romance. Hats off to the author for satisfying my need for both.
In “Colossal” we follow Kaia and Orion: two morally grey characters whom I alternately loved and hated throughout the whole book. Kaia is looking for atonement for her past, and Orion is trying to gain control of his future. At times they were so hot/cold with each other that I didn’t know what to make of their relationship, but the plot kept me captivated throughout.
Some good things to know about the book/troupes:
✅ Orion has a unique 🍆, with spikes! (I know this is critical information for my fellow monster/alien lovers out there 😉)
✅ Strong-willed FMC
✅ Marriage of convenience
✅ Space exploration with good world building 🌍
Warnings/Callouts:
⚠️ A couple instances of non-con/dub-con
⚠️ Slow burn 🔥
⚠️ Even though the book summary talks of MMC needing a heir, breeding is not the focus here
⚠️ Brief 3rd act break up
⚠️ There is a HFN but book ends on a cliffhanger
⚠️ Institutionalised suicide (although no specific details given)
The author’s note at the front mentions that this is the “darkest story the author has written.” I’m sure this depends on your perspective…I have read some really dark/pitch black stories so the level of darkness/violence in this didn’t feel extreme to me.
Overall I really enjoyed this and am invested in the series and the adventures to come.
To conclude, I’ll leave you with one of my favourite scenes/quotes:
“Don’t you know what this means?” Orion allowed himself a little push of the hips, urging her back into careful motion. “We can make a fucking baby.”
“Don’t worry,” Orion insisted. “It’s too early to worry about that. We have hundreds of years to figure this out. There’s nothing to rush here.”
“But it’s my job,” Kaia stumbled. “It’s like… my only job.”
“Your job right now,” he wiped a silver smudge from her chin, “is to find New Earth with me. And to make it a great fucking adventure.”
In “Colossal” we follow Kaia and Orion: two morally grey characters whom I alternately loved and hated throughout the whole book. Kaia is looking for atonement for her past, and Orion is trying to gain control of his future. At times they were so hot/cold with each other that I didn’t know what to make of their relationship, but the plot kept me captivated throughout.
Some good things to know about the book/troupes:
✅ Orion has a unique 🍆, with spikes! (I know this is critical information for my fellow monster/alien lovers out there 😉)
✅ Strong-willed FMC
✅ Marriage of convenience
✅ Space exploration with good world building 🌍
Warnings/Callouts:
⚠️ A couple instances of non-con/dub-con
⚠️ Slow burn 🔥
⚠️ Even though the book summary talks of MMC needing a heir, breeding is not the focus here
⚠️ Brief 3rd act break up
⚠️ There is a HFN but book ends on a cliffhanger
⚠️ Institutionalised suicide (although no specific details given)
The author’s note at the front mentions that this is the “darkest story the author has written.” I’m sure this depends on your perspective…I have read some really dark/pitch black stories so the level of darkness/violence in this didn’t feel extreme to me.
Overall I really enjoyed this and am invested in the series and the adventures to come.
To conclude, I’ll leave you with one of my favourite scenes/quotes:
“Don’t you know what this means?” Orion allowed himself a little push of the hips, urging her back into careful motion. “We can make a fucking baby.”
“Don’t worry,” Orion insisted. “It’s too early to worry about that. We have hundreds of years to figure this out. There’s nothing to rush here.”
“But it’s my job,” Kaia stumbled. “It’s like… my only job.”
“Your job right now,” he wiped a silver smudge from her chin, “is to find New Earth with me. And to make it a great fucking adventure.”
September 6, 2023
Orion, the male human/alien hybrid lead, was exiled from his colony ship by his mother, the commander, a decade ago. Now she’s recalled him because she’s dying. He has no choice but to go because colony ships are programmed to a commander’s genetics and he’s his mother’s only child. If he doesn’t go, then the colony ship will be unable to be moved.
Kaia, the female human lead, is a scavenger, surviving at the base level of society and trapped in a crime lord’s world. She’s desperately saving credits so that she can have her conscious uploaded to join her dead brother. When the crime lord she’s indebted to offers her the opportunity to get enough credits, she jumps at the chance, even though it means dealing with intimacy with Orion and the real risk of physical damage and addiction, due to the chemical his alien genes mean he exudes through his bodily fluids.
Orion wants her to be a final rebellion against his mother. Kaia is trying to appease her old sense of guilt. But the attraction between them is real. There are many obstacles between them though, and some aren’t even self generated!
This long story is dual POV, well written, and an interesting but definitely dark sci fi romance. Whilst there is a HEA for the lead couple, the overarching plot ends in a serious cliffhanger and the teaser for the next story is all tension. I enjoyed Kaia’s resilience and her acknowledgment of her own preferences, even though she didn’t appreciate them. I empathised with her guilt. I enjoyed Orion’s self-confidence and his enjoyment of his own capabilities. I also enjoyed seeing him brought down several notches by Kaia, mediating his arrogance. I enjoyed the slow burn intimacy, with significant relationship development. I enjoyed the final balance. I’m curious where the author is taking this series. It is definitely dark but not so dark that I’m leaving.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kaia, the female human lead, is a scavenger, surviving at the base level of society and trapped in a crime lord’s world. She’s desperately saving credits so that she can have her conscious uploaded to join her dead brother. When the crime lord she’s indebted to offers her the opportunity to get enough credits, she jumps at the chance, even though it means dealing with intimacy with Orion and the real risk of physical damage and addiction, due to the chemical his alien genes mean he exudes through his bodily fluids.
Orion wants her to be a final rebellion against his mother. Kaia is trying to appease her old sense of guilt. But the attraction between them is real. There are many obstacles between them though, and some aren’t even self generated!
This long story is dual POV, well written, and an interesting but definitely dark sci fi romance. Whilst there is a HEA for the lead couple, the overarching plot ends in a serious cliffhanger and the teaser for the next story is all tension. I enjoyed Kaia’s resilience and her acknowledgment of her own preferences, even though she didn’t appreciate them. I empathised with her guilt. I enjoyed Orion’s self-confidence and his enjoyment of his own capabilities. I also enjoyed seeing him brought down several notches by Kaia, mediating his arrogance. I enjoyed the slow burn intimacy, with significant relationship development. I enjoyed the final balance. I’m curious where the author is taking this series. It is definitely dark but not so dark that I’m leaving.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2023
Colossal is is a dark science fiction romance taking place in a dystopian future. Earth is destroyed, water is scarce, and humanity is constantly searching the galaxy for a new planet like Earth to colonize. Orion is the last living heir of the commander of one of the last colony ships, Colossal, and he is summoned home to prepare for taking up the mantle of command as his mother is dying. Kaia is a scavenger working at a defunct space station trying to scrape up enough cash to pay for uploading her consciousness to heaven so she can join her dead brother. Their paths cross on Orion’s journey home, and Kaia is coerced into pursuing a relationship with Orion by her boss. Orion sees Kaia as a way to get petty revenge on his mother’s demands, whereas Kaia is tasked with giving her old boss as much information about Colossal so her boss can eventually dismantle the ship for profit.
Orion is extremely selfish and self-centered. He resents his enforced future and almost seems incapable of caring for anyone other than himself. His uhyre blood exacerbates his violent, sadistic tendencies. Kaia ultimately is fatalistic and somewhat suicidal, but she’s willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals. She also is somewhat masochistically bent, but her fear of addiction keeps her from fully embracing Orion. Their relationship grows in a twisted, somewhat unhealthy fashion. As Orion’s mother’s final exploration and their wedding draws near, Orion and Kaia are forced to look outside their desires and decide whether the future is worth fighting for.
Colossal is an excellent science fiction book with rich, believable world building and a fabulously dark romance that leaves you aching for more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Orion is extremely selfish and self-centered. He resents his enforced future and almost seems incapable of caring for anyone other than himself. His uhyre blood exacerbates his violent, sadistic tendencies. Kaia ultimately is fatalistic and somewhat suicidal, but she’s willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals. She also is somewhat masochistically bent, but her fear of addiction keeps her from fully embracing Orion. Their relationship grows in a twisted, somewhat unhealthy fashion. As Orion’s mother’s final exploration and their wedding draws near, Orion and Kaia are forced to look outside their desires and decide whether the future is worth fighting for.
Colossal is an excellent science fiction book with rich, believable world building and a fabulously dark romance that leaves you aching for more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 15, 2023
Y'all. The fucking chokehold this book had on me. I devoured it in less than 24 hours which is insane because I have been on a pretty standard diet of titles under 300 pages.
Orion has been summoned back by his ailing mother to pilot the Colossal, a colony ship that is programmed to run on his specific genetic structure. Kaia is a scavenger tasked with seducing Orion so that her warlord boss can get a foothold on the Colossal. Orion sees Kaia as an opportunity to stick it to his mom by bringing home the scruffy little nerfherder (sorry, I had to).
Kaia has a fiery personality and takes zero shit and Orion is kind of an entitled bastard, oh and not to mention he has murderous tendencies and secretes a toxin that causes partners to be quite literally addicted to him. What could possibly go wrong?
I'm going to level with you, this is a pretty dark romance so please check the TW/CW. There's quite a bit of violence and both characters can dish it as well as they can take it. It also has a DELICIOUS slow burn and the spice is top notch, in my humble opinion.
Kaia is the driven FMC that you want to see in a title like this and while Orion is, as I said, kind of a dick, I still really liked him. He has this charming brutish quality that, while is a major red flag, is really fun to play with.
If you're looking for a comparison to as far as how dark this is. I want to say it broaches Harley Laroux, specifically Her Soul To Take which is currently one of my darkest reads so far so I might just be a complete amatuer in this genre so take that with a grain of salt if you're a pro dark romance reader.
I would like to thank Alexandra Norton for sending me an ARC of this title in exchange for a review.
Orion has been summoned back by his ailing mother to pilot the Colossal, a colony ship that is programmed to run on his specific genetic structure. Kaia is a scavenger tasked with seducing Orion so that her warlord boss can get a foothold on the Colossal. Orion sees Kaia as an opportunity to stick it to his mom by bringing home the scruffy little nerfherder (sorry, I had to).
Kaia has a fiery personality and takes zero shit and Orion is kind of an entitled bastard, oh and not to mention he has murderous tendencies and secretes a toxin that causes partners to be quite literally addicted to him. What could possibly go wrong?
I'm going to level with you, this is a pretty dark romance so please check the TW/CW. There's quite a bit of violence and both characters can dish it as well as they can take it. It also has a DELICIOUS slow burn and the spice is top notch, in my humble opinion.
Kaia is the driven FMC that you want to see in a title like this and while Orion is, as I said, kind of a dick, I still really liked him. He has this charming brutish quality that, while is a major red flag, is really fun to play with.
If you're looking for a comparison to as far as how dark this is. I want to say it broaches Harley Laroux, specifically Her Soul To Take which is currently one of my darkest reads so far so I might just be a complete amatuer in this genre so take that with a grain of salt if you're a pro dark romance reader.
I would like to thank Alexandra Norton for sending me an ARC of this title in exchange for a review.
September 9, 2023
This book was a susenseful page turner. I couldn't put it down. Wanted things to work out for Kaia and Orion, who are both complex and flawed characters.
Orion is the heir of Colossal, a spaceship travelling in search of a planet similar to Earth, about a thousand of years after Earth was destroyed and what remained of humanity had to abandon it, following an alien invasion. Orion is a human with an uhyre heritage, making him unpredictable and violent. He is summoned back to the ship by his dying mother after a decade away to marry a woman she chooses for him. He doesn't like it and comes up with an idea to bring with him a fiancee to the ship, someone his mother would not like to be the mother of his future heir. So he offers Kaia to become his fiancee.
Kaia is a scavenger pilot working for a pirate called Loran, who makes her seduce Orion so he could take over Colossal and tear it apart. Kaia is filled with guilt from a young age and blames herself of killing her little brotger. She wants to earn enough money to die and join him in Heaven.
Both Orion and Kaia are morally grey. Both of them don't care at first about the the lives of the people on the ship and only focus on their love-hate relationship in order to reach their personal goals. I really look forward to reading what happens next to Orion and Kaia, who reached their HFN, but the book ends with a huge cliffhanger.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Orion is the heir of Colossal, a spaceship travelling in search of a planet similar to Earth, about a thousand of years after Earth was destroyed and what remained of humanity had to abandon it, following an alien invasion. Orion is a human with an uhyre heritage, making him unpredictable and violent. He is summoned back to the ship by his dying mother after a decade away to marry a woman she chooses for him. He doesn't like it and comes up with an idea to bring with him a fiancee to the ship, someone his mother would not like to be the mother of his future heir. So he offers Kaia to become his fiancee.
Kaia is a scavenger pilot working for a pirate called Loran, who makes her seduce Orion so he could take over Colossal and tear it apart. Kaia is filled with guilt from a young age and blames herself of killing her little brotger. She wants to earn enough money to die and join him in Heaven.
Both Orion and Kaia are morally grey. Both of them don't care at first about the the lives of the people on the ship and only focus on their love-hate relationship in order to reach their personal goals. I really look forward to reading what happens next to Orion and Kaia, who reached their HFN, but the book ends with a huge cliffhanger.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2023
Addicted! That sums up my feelings after reading the incredible new book, : Dark Romance in Deep Space," from Alexandra Norton. This delectable book is the first book in the Heart with Teeth series. The prelude to the series, "Downfall," grabbed me first, and it basically prepared me for the colony life aboard the massive spaceship known as Colossal. The book blurb does a great job of setting up this story between Orion, the privileged heir to the colony ship, and Kaia, the tough, almost starved scavenger who Orion has decided to use for his own purposes.Kaia knows she is just to be used, and that is okay with her. She plans to use him for her own reasons.
I loved these two characters, always at war with one another, but ever enthralled by the other. Orion is so selfish and brutally uses Kaia to the point that I just almost hate the spoiled rich kid. Kaia is so broken and guilt-ridden that I felt so much empathy for her. Their chemistry, though dark, is addictive to read, and I am completely hooked!
Ms. Norton has built a world in this book to captivate and draw you into the colony ship and its journey. There is a shocking cliffhanger that has me on pins and needles to see what happens next. Oh, how I do hope there is more to Orion and Kaia's story!
This, and "Downfall," are the first books I have read from this author. I received a free copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I have loved these books and have found a new author to add to my favorites.
I loved these two characters, always at war with one another, but ever enthralled by the other. Orion is so selfish and brutally uses Kaia to the point that I just almost hate the spoiled rich kid. Kaia is so broken and guilt-ridden that I felt so much empathy for her. Their chemistry, though dark, is addictive to read, and I am completely hooked!
Ms. Norton has built a world in this book to captivate and draw you into the colony ship and its journey. There is a shocking cliffhanger that has me on pins and needles to see what happens next. Oh, how I do hope there is more to Orion and Kaia's story!
This, and "Downfall," are the first books I have read from this author. I received a free copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I have loved these books and have found a new author to add to my favorites.
September 19, 2023
Orion is the heir to a colony ship called the Colossal which is currently run by his parents during his banishment.
When his mother calls him back to learn the various lessons needed to run everything, he learns she is dying and he can no longer hide from expectations.
He meets a scavenger who he decides is perfect because of her spirit and fight.. She will be everything his alien side will love to destroy and he takes her as his fiance.
Kaia has plans of her own that include gaining enough chips so she can upload and join her brother in heaven... In order to do this, she needs to attach herself to Orion and gain access to the Colossal for a terrible warlord.
Neither of them knew what they'd awaken in each other but both will shed some blood.
This was a different type of story that wasn't particularly lovey dovey but I enjoyed the darker aspect to it.
Orion is part alien and has natural violent tendencies that mean his sexual partners must be made of something stronger...Kaia is basically made of steel.
Both use the other for various reasons but there are little cracks of softness which make you hold on for the romance.
I was enjoying the encounters, the sense of betrayal and the development of the characters.
It would be easy to hate the main male but his change throughout is a slow but steady stream.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When his mother calls him back to learn the various lessons needed to run everything, he learns she is dying and he can no longer hide from expectations.
He meets a scavenger who he decides is perfect because of her spirit and fight.. She will be everything his alien side will love to destroy and he takes her as his fiance.
Kaia has plans of her own that include gaining enough chips so she can upload and join her brother in heaven... In order to do this, she needs to attach herself to Orion and gain access to the Colossal for a terrible warlord.
Neither of them knew what they'd awaken in each other but both will shed some blood.
This was a different type of story that wasn't particularly lovey dovey but I enjoyed the darker aspect to it.
Orion is part alien and has natural violent tendencies that mean his sexual partners must be made of something stronger...Kaia is basically made of steel.
Both use the other for various reasons but there are little cracks of softness which make you hold on for the romance.
I was enjoying the encounters, the sense of betrayal and the development of the characters.
It would be easy to hate the main male but his change throughout is a slow but steady stream.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 15, 2024
Earth has been abandoned, and the human race is spread around the galaxy.
Orion is an entitled, shallow commander's son, who has been banished to Mars by his mother for over a decade. He gets the news that it's time for him to return and learn to take over command.
Kaia lives on Riker 109 as a scavenger. Her boss wants her to target Orion on his stop from Mars to Colossal, the colony ship. He wants her to make it to Colossal and get him information on how to access the ship. It's full of resources and the best tech, due to its goal of finding New Earth.
The book follows their journey as they get to know each other, journey along Colossal, and use each other for their own means.
I greatly enjoyed the world building and unique aspects of the world and the ship itself. I had a hard time feeling very invested in the relationship forming between the two of them, as it's more trauma bonding than anything else most of the time.
It definitely ends on a cliffhanger though, so now it's time to wait until book 2 comes out!
TW/CW - check the authors website for full content warnings: though the dubcon is more like sexual assault with FMC feeling she "deserves it", suicidal ideation, suicide, sexual violence, knife play
I was lucky to receive an ARC from the author to read.
Orion is an entitled, shallow commander's son, who has been banished to Mars by his mother for over a decade. He gets the news that it's time for him to return and learn to take over command.
Kaia lives on Riker 109 as a scavenger. Her boss wants her to target Orion on his stop from Mars to Colossal, the colony ship. He wants her to make it to Colossal and get him information on how to access the ship. It's full of resources and the best tech, due to its goal of finding New Earth.
The book follows their journey as they get to know each other, journey along Colossal, and use each other for their own means.
I greatly enjoyed the world building and unique aspects of the world and the ship itself. I had a hard time feeling very invested in the relationship forming between the two of them, as it's more trauma bonding than anything else most of the time.
It definitely ends on a cliffhanger though, so now it's time to wait until book 2 comes out!
TW/CW - check the authors website for full content warnings: though the dubcon is more like sexual assault with FMC feeling she "deserves it", suicidal ideation, suicide, sexual violence, knife play
I was lucky to receive an ARC from the author to read.
July 25, 2024
53% in and I am loving it! I like the world buiding and the fascination with water. I am also intrigued with the whole 10% alien dna, the uploading into heaven idea and the search for a new earth.
One negative for me right now: I understand Kaia's wish to reunite with her brother, but what does she think will happen with this big ship Colossal when Loran catches up with them because of all of the intel she has provided him? Doesn't Kaia care about the fate of all her co-travellers? Or is she so driven to atone for her brothers death she doesn't care? And what will Orion think of it when he finds out, not to mention his mum reaction? Mother in law has 20% of alien dna, so I guess she can get real angry. Oh well I need to continue, not skip one single page and try not to bite to polish off my fingers.
71% in. I’m a bit disappointed in myself. After the incident Zephyr, Kaia is depressed, afraid and angry. My reaction was, well you knew what you were getting into. The reaction everyone in the book had. I feel I should sympathize more with Kaia. I get it, if you really are afraid to become a junkie then what Orion did is disgusting. But but but, you knew. And no matter what Loran promised he would get you an upload. What’s the problem? I’m missing some empathic part, how disappointing. >> I have to say (this is added after I've finished it) Kaia agrees with me in the end.
Plus: love the nail-polished fingers, Ms Norton really has a great imagination!
Finished! It was wrapped up with a tidy bow. It ends on a HFN and with a bit of a cliffhanger. I have pre ordered the next installment.
4,5 stars! As I would have liked to read more about the confrontation between Loran and Kaia. And what was his big plan??
One negative for me right now: I understand Kaia's wish to reunite with her brother, but what does she think will happen with this big ship Colossal when Loran catches up with them because of all of the intel she has provided him? Doesn't Kaia care about the fate of all her co-travellers? Or is she so driven to atone for her brothers death she doesn't care? And what will Orion think of it when he finds out, not to mention his mum reaction? Mother in law has 20% of alien dna, so I guess she can get real angry. Oh well I need to continue, not skip one single page and try not to bite to polish off my fingers.
71% in. I’m a bit disappointed in myself. After the incident Zephyr, Kaia is depressed, afraid and angry. My reaction was, well you knew what you were getting into. The reaction everyone in the book had. I feel I should sympathize more with Kaia. I get it, if you really are afraid to become a junkie then what Orion did is disgusting. But but but, you knew. And no matter what Loran promised he would get you an upload. What’s the problem? I’m missing some empathic part, how disappointing. >> I have to say (this is added after I've finished it) Kaia agrees with me in the end.
Plus: love the nail-polished fingers, Ms Norton really has a great imagination!
Finished! It was wrapped up with a tidy bow. It ends on a HFN and with a bit of a cliffhanger. I have pre ordered the next installment.
4,5 stars! As I would have liked to read more about the confrontation between Loran and Kaia. And what was his big plan??
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2024
Colossal is a Sci-Fi, Dystopian, Dark Romance. This is a very, very slow burn tale. I found it to barely dark, and there to be very few spicy scenes, and a touch of violence.
I really wanted to like this book, I am a huge dark romance fan, dystopian fan and really enjoy a well written sci-fi story line. It would be hard for me to say Colossal was well written, the author consistently flips between past and present tense while describing the same situation, as well as other grammatical errors.
I loved the concept of this story, a steamy sci-fi romance where a morally gray main male character has to navigate treacherous desires as power and seduction blur the lines between pleasure and pain.Unfortunately, the plot never really took off, it spent way to long with setting up the story and never gave us any development. At times it felt like the story was stuck on a loop, the same feelings and situations over and over again, without any progression.
I loved the base characteristics of both main characters. Kaia a headstrong hustler, doing whatever it takes to get where she wants and strong and spoiled part alien Orion, who is heir to the biggest colony ship in space. Unfortunately that is where my love stops. Neither showed enough character growth throughout the book. This caused them to become boring and flat for me.
I really wanted to like this book, I am a huge dark romance fan, dystopian fan and really enjoy a well written sci-fi story line. It would be hard for me to say Colossal was well written, the author consistently flips between past and present tense while describing the same situation, as well as other grammatical errors.
I loved the concept of this story, a steamy sci-fi romance where a morally gray main male character has to navigate treacherous desires as power and seduction blur the lines between pleasure and pain.Unfortunately, the plot never really took off, it spent way to long with setting up the story and never gave us any development. At times it felt like the story was stuck on a loop, the same feelings and situations over and over again, without any progression.
I loved the base characteristics of both main characters. Kaia a headstrong hustler, doing whatever it takes to get where she wants and strong and spoiled part alien Orion, who is heir to the biggest colony ship in space. Unfortunately that is where my love stops. Neither showed enough character growth throughout the book. This caused them to become boring and flat for me.
November 9, 2023
I loved this book so much!!!! It took me 3 days to read this and I work full time and I am in school. I literally could not put it down. It is darker than I would usually read, but Orion and Kaia were such a good fit for each other despite their flaws. Alexandra Norton did such a good job of infusing the characters' personalities into their points of views. Orion is very self-centered but it comes across as charming especially when considering that character development definitely comes his way. Kaia is very stubborn and strong in a way that made her the perfect match for Orion.
The world building had me hooked as well. I absolutely love this desolate view of the future of humanity and it was made well. I love all the consideration that has gone into options for humans in terms of where they live, how they live in these different places, and cultural differences simply because of the amount of space between people. The world building is so good, in addition to the characters being so fun to read. I have loved everything from Alexandra Norton that I have read so far, and I plan to read pretty much anything she will put out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The world building had me hooked as well. I absolutely love this desolate view of the future of humanity and it was made well. I love all the consideration that has gone into options for humans in terms of where they live, how they live in these different places, and cultural differences simply because of the amount of space between people. The world building is so good, in addition to the characters being so fun to read. I have loved everything from Alexandra Norton that I have read so far, and I plan to read pretty much anything she will put out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 4, 2024
This is my first book by this author, and it left an impression on me. She is a good writer, things were described well. Sometimes with SciFi reads, I can't picture what's happening, but that wasn't an issue here. The world building is also excellent. She took a story concept and made it her own, and it definitely had me intrigued.
I love the chemistry between the two MMC's. It's definitely a slow burn, but it just makes them finally coming together that much more satisfying. They are both deeply flawed characters, and I definitely shook my head at both of them throughout. They do grow and change together though.
The pacing was fine until the end, and that's honestly why I dropped my review down to 4 stars. The books story progression, as well as the relationship between Orion and Kaia flowed very well until their wedding. Some violent things happen during the climax, there is a pretty big rift opened between the two, and it all seems to get resolved in a couple chapters. I just wish there would have been a bit more to fully flesh that ending out.
That cliffhanger though! I was desperately hoping there was more, and she left me dangling over the edge! I will definitely be reading Command when it comes out.
I love the chemistry between the two MMC's. It's definitely a slow burn, but it just makes them finally coming together that much more satisfying. They are both deeply flawed characters, and I definitely shook my head at both of them throughout. They do grow and change together though.
The pacing was fine until the end, and that's honestly why I dropped my review down to 4 stars. The books story progression, as well as the relationship between Orion and Kaia flowed very well until their wedding. Some violent things happen during the climax, there is a pretty big rift opened between the two, and it all seems to get resolved in a couple chapters. I just wish there would have been a bit more to fully flesh that ending out.
That cliffhanger though! I was desperately hoping there was more, and she left me dangling over the edge! I will definitely be reading Command when it comes out.
January 13, 2025
This book was good, visuals were good, storyline was good, I really enjoyed it and I paced myself instead of blowing through the entire thing, Kaia and Orion are cute characters, I liked the development of their relationship I only wish Kaia didn't beat herself up so much over her trauma, I did like how she sort of overcame it...sort of, manifesting it into something more than just getting uploaded, Orion was a haughty one for a character, but he knew what he is and well that made him, no one could tell him otherwise, Loran lmfao that sonofabitch that's all i gotta say about him, in my head he had the most annoying and scratchy voices in my head lol i wanted nothing more than to never encounter him again but when Kaia ugh...like girl nooooooo I am trying not to spoil it hahaha.
Also I liked the hyperjump scene when Orion got launched into the air without warning like no one could warn them they were going to jump? So everyone in the banquet hall for the wedding is just hovering in air LOL! But I did feel bad at the end, man he was soooooo hurt it was like damn Kaia how are you two going to build trust again after that?
The end: wow! Excited for the second installment
PS. Mare Halena, you are such a dickhead for dropping out like that!
Also I liked the hyperjump scene when Orion got launched into the air without warning like no one could warn them they were going to jump? So everyone in the banquet hall for the wedding is just hovering in air LOL! But I did feel bad at the end, man he was soooooo hurt it was like damn Kaia how are you two going to build trust again after that?
The end: wow! Excited for the second installment
PS. Mare Halena, you are such a dickhead for dropping out like that!
February 27, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am providing this review voluntarily.
Rating: 5 stars 🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
- Dark Sci-fi
- Slow burn
- Enemies-to-lovers
- Morally Grey MMC and FMC
- Hidden intentions
- Dual POV
I devoured this book in a couple of days, definitely sacrificing precious hours of sleep because I couldn't put it down. The pacing starts slow, but the character growth, their banter, and the story building make it entirely worthwhile. At one point, I even wondered if the hate would last forever, lol.
We follow Kaia and Orion, both desiring something from the other. For Orion, it's a chance to rebel once again against his mom. For Kaia, it's her way to obtain her ... (no spoilers, lol).
These two characters are well-suited to each other. Both selfish, wanting things to suit themselves. Both mentally affected by the past. Both emotionally challenged.
The alien spice and dom/non-sub dynamic were definitely a nice addition. I really, really enjoyed this book and hate that I have to wait for the next one. Be prepared for the cliffhanger when you embark on this spaceship !
Rating: 5 stars 🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
- Dark Sci-fi
- Slow burn
- Enemies-to-lovers
- Morally Grey MMC and FMC
- Hidden intentions
- Dual POV
I devoured this book in a couple of days, definitely sacrificing precious hours of sleep because I couldn't put it down. The pacing starts slow, but the character growth, their banter, and the story building make it entirely worthwhile. At one point, I even wondered if the hate would last forever, lol.
We follow Kaia and Orion, both desiring something from the other. For Orion, it's a chance to rebel once again against his mom. For Kaia, it's her way to obtain her ... (no spoilers, lol).
These two characters are well-suited to each other. Both selfish, wanting things to suit themselves. Both mentally affected by the past. Both emotionally challenged.
The alien spice and dom/non-sub dynamic were definitely a nice addition. I really, really enjoyed this book and hate that I have to wait for the next one. Be prepared for the cliffhanger when you embark on this spaceship !
September 14, 2023
This book was very enjoyable and my only pet peeve is it ends in a cliffhanger. Orion Haley is a human / uhyre hybrid heritage that will take over Command of the Colossal thats looking for a new planet to settle on but when his mother kicks him off the space craft he meets Kaia who is sexy and drives him crazy. And now his dying mother has called him back to take over but he must marry the female she has chosen and so he needs a plan. Kaia is a scavenger pilot who works for Loran but al she wants is to die and be with her brother who died and she believes is her fault and now Loran wants her to get close to Orion so he can take over Command of the Colossal and when they meet she is quite attracted to him even when he is driving her crazy and when he asks her to be his fiancé she agrees and it isn’t long before they get hot and steamy and he hopes for an heir. How does it all turn out in the end when it ends on a cliffhanger so I’ll look forward to the next one as well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2024
I was expecting a sexy romantic SciFi novel, and it was definitely SciFi, but the sex wasn’t sexy, and the romance wasn’t particularly romantic. I still enjoyed it; the story is interesting, and the MMC and FMC are interesting , if not the most immediately likable characters I’ve run across. I’ll probably read the sequel, because yes, this ends on a cliffhanger- not to the romance, that’s resolved by the end of the book - but to the SciFi plot, and I want to see how it turns out. But I won’t read it expecting to be titillated by the sex or to swoon over the romance, because that didn’t happen.
There was also a major plot point that didn’t make sense to me. The FMC is initially working for/with a criminal war lord, and although her allegiances change in the course of the book, he shows up, and his very presence is supposed to be a danger to everyone and everything present, but I don’t understand how he, by himself, could cause havoc and damage to the extent anticipated by the FMC. He may be a criminal war lord, but he’s still only one individual.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There was also a major plot point that didn’t make sense to me. The FMC is initially working for/with a criminal war lord, and although her allegiances change in the course of the book, he shows up, and his very presence is supposed to be a danger to everyone and everything present, but I don’t understand how he, by himself, could cause havoc and damage to the extent anticipated by the FMC. He may be a criminal war lord, but he’s still only one individual.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 31, 2023
Orion (H), a privileged individual who is part-human and part-alien, becomes infatuated with Kaia (h), a scavenger he meets in a bar. Despite their differences, they engage in a passionate encounter. However, Kaia discovers Orion's true identity as an "uhyre," a hybrid creature. Orion brings Kaia to his family's colony ship, Colossal, to integrate her into his life and Kaia must navigate the complexities of the privileged environment and her relationship with Orion. She experiences both attraction and conflict with Orion, and their interactions become increasingly intense and intimate. Kaia and Orion grapple with power dynamics, personal secrets, and their individual motivations. They face external threats, uncover hidden agendas, and learn about the true nature of their roles in their society. Ultra-hot and steamy alien-human dark romance with lots of emotional struggles, desires, and a relationship full of complexities.
September 8, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Genre: Sci-Fi Romance
Series: Y
FMC: Kala
MMC: Orion
POV: First Person, Second Person, Third Person, Multi POV, Dual POV
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶
HEA: Yes/No
Tropes: Space Opera, Romantic Suspense, Dark Romance,
"Colossal" by Alexandra Norton delivers a gripping sci-fi romance set in a post-Earth world. Orion, the future leader of a colossal colony spaceship, crosses paths with Kaia, a morally complex character with her own agenda. Their relationship evolves from animosity to something more complicated, adding depth to the story. The book's world-building and storytelling are top-notch, though the morally ambiguous characters and an open-ended conclusion might not suit everyone's taste. If you enjoy edgy sci-fi romance with intricate politics, "Colossal" is a must-read, leaving you eager for the next chapter in this captivating tale.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Genre: Sci-Fi Romance
Series: Y
FMC: Kala
MMC: Orion
POV: First Person, Second Person, Third Person, Multi POV, Dual POV
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶
HEA: Yes/No
Tropes: Space Opera, Romantic Suspense, Dark Romance,
"Colossal" by Alexandra Norton delivers a gripping sci-fi romance set in a post-Earth world. Orion, the future leader of a colossal colony spaceship, crosses paths with Kaia, a morally complex character with her own agenda. Their relationship evolves from animosity to something more complicated, adding depth to the story. The book's world-building and storytelling are top-notch, though the morally ambiguous characters and an open-ended conclusion might not suit everyone's taste. If you enjoy edgy sci-fi romance with intricate politics, "Colossal" is a must-read, leaving you eager for the next chapter in this captivating tale.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 22, 2023
Orion and Kaia bring the heat. This was such a good book. This is the first time reading this author and it will not be the last. Normally slow burn romances can drive me crazy. However, this author’s ability to write makes the slow burn worthwhile. She has built characters with unique personalities, and they blend together to make this a great read.
Kaia is a strong FMC who has a strong sense of family. This is her motivation throughout the book and forces her relationship with Orion. The MMC, Orion, is strong, dominant, self-centered and grows into a reluctant leader. Their chemistry is off the charts.
I will not give any spoilers but be prepared for a wild ride with betrayal, intrigue, violence, and dark s3x. This science fiction romantic thriller is worth your time.
Kaia is a strong FMC who has a strong sense of family. This is her motivation throughout the book and forces her relationship with Orion. The MMC, Orion, is strong, dominant, self-centered and grows into a reluctant leader. Their chemistry is off the charts.
I will not give any spoilers but be prepared for a wild ride with betrayal, intrigue, violence, and dark s3x. This science fiction romantic thriller is worth your time.
January 25, 2024
I was extremely impressed with this very original, dark sci-fi romance. Heart and Teeth is a more than appropriate name for this series.
Orion and Kaia have nothing in common. He is the privileged, spoilt heir to the colony ship Colossal whereas Kaia is a broken, almost starved scavenger. She is tough and Orion found his match in her, but at least in the beginning, I felt a little sorry for her. Both plan to use each other for different reasons but their chemistry is dark and makes for an addictive read. I thoroughly enjoyed the character development and the world Ms. Norton built within and around the colony ship.
Colossal is the first book I read by this author and I can't wait to read the next installment in this series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Orion and Kaia have nothing in common. He is the privileged, spoilt heir to the colony ship Colossal whereas Kaia is a broken, almost starved scavenger. She is tough and Orion found his match in her, but at least in the beginning, I felt a little sorry for her. Both plan to use each other for different reasons but their chemistry is dark and makes for an addictive read. I thoroughly enjoyed the character development and the world Ms. Norton built within and around the colony ship.
Colossal is the first book I read by this author and I can't wait to read the next installment in this series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 14, 2025
At first, I thought Orion was a spoiled rotten elitist throwing a tantrum when Mommy called him home actually to work for a living. Then as the story progresses, you find that Orion was sent to Mars, where he wasn't allowed to fly like he'd been trained or do anything useful. It is no wonder he has Mommy issues and an elitist attitude. So when he's ordered home, and he knows his parents will expect him to kowtow and marry as they will, he decides this is the one thing he will rebel about. Instead, he sets out to choose his bride, and Kaia is perfect for what he has in mind. She's stubborn, rebellious, and one hell of a pilot. She also has an ulterior motive when she says yes. Colossal is plenty steamy, with some intrigue and adventure along the way. I enjoyed it and can't wait to read the second in the series.
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