Hers to Choose

Verdantia #2

by Patricia A. Knight

To preserve their civilization, a disillusioned warrior and a violated innocent need to put aside the trauma of their past to confront a present evil.

Mentally scarred from her years as prisoner to the off-world invaders, Lady Sophillia Glorianna DeLorion, doubts she can be a fit sexual partner for any man...

...even one whose passionate green eyes make her remember what it is to desire.

Commander of the Queen’s Royal Guard, Eric DeStroia had grown up watching the corrosive, soul-killing effects of arranged, aristocratic marriage and vowed to remain alone. But under his hardened military exterior, Eric has a kind heart. When the second Tetriarch suggests he marry a noble woman rescued from the enemy, Eric reconsiders, consoling himself with visions of sheltering a wounded dove under his mighty arm. Instead, he discovers a fierce falcon that refuses to stoop to his lure.

In the aftermath of their resounding defeat, a survivor from the enemy camp plotted a return to Verdantia to exact retribution. His first objective is the recapture of Lady Sophillia DeLorion. She had been unreachable until she went to the Oshtesh. Now, only Eric DeStroia stands in his way.

Genres: Science Fiction, Romance, Erotica, Fantasy, BDSM, Aliens, Adult

334 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 13, 2013

About the author

Patricia A. Knight is the pen name for an eternal romantic and died-in-the-wool hermit who lives in Dallas, Texas with her horses, dogs and the best man on the face of the earth. With the BMOTFOTE and pups as navigators, she travels the US in her motorcoach, affectionately dubbed, the Taj-ma-haul, on her endless search for the best chocolate cake recipe. Look for her coming to your state! (Seriously, look for her... her driving skills are sketchy.) When her PA Pam forces her to, she writes.

A Note About My Reviews:
Book reviews are wildly subjective. Many things influence whether or not a reader enjoys a book that are out of the author's control and unrelated to the quality of their writing. My book reviews deal with books I can recommend as having entertained me. For this reason you will not see reviews below a 3-star rating. My reviews are recommendations not critiques. I read books I don't like--books I can't finish. I just don't review them. I also do not review books by authors I edit. I do not review books to have mine reviewed, I'm easy to please. I don't require fine literature. Just tell me a good yarn.

I love to hear from my readers and can be reached at http://www.patriciaaknight.com. or
https://www.facebook.com/patriciaknig...
Or send me an email at patriciaknight190@gmail.com.

Reviews

[Shurrn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gorgeous and steamy Sci-Fi Sequel!

(Mild Spoilers if you haven't read Hers to Command)

This was an amazing followup to the first book in the series. It carried all of the strengths of its predecessor while focusing on a new couple with all new obstacles...

I did a full breakdown of the intricacies of this high-fantasy Sci-Fi world in My review for the previous book in the series. Rather than rehashing all of that, I'll simply encourage you to catch up with that post.

However, I want to remind you of one important fact: The Planet Verdantia is sentient; She has feelings, and interacts with her population. That interaction occurs when certain Verdantians have sex... Crazy, sweaty, kinky, burn-up-the sheets sex...



All this awesome sex helps the planet flourish - it keeps the lights on, makes the crops grow, and it powers the shields which protect the Verdantia from outside forces...

Only Verdantians with a specific set of genetic markers are capable of performing the sexual rites, and they were systematically slaughtered during the war with the Haarb. Only a handful of these Magistras survived the decimation of Verdantia...

SOPHI

“You make me bold, Eric.”

We met Sophi at the end of Hers to Command. She is Doral's beloved sister, and was held captive by the Haarb during the war. Ari rescued Sophi and her mother from the clutches of the Haarb and returned them to Doral, who thought they were dead.

Sophi was a cowering mess in the wake of her captivity. She was incapable of enduring the social atmosphere of the palace, and was taken to a village in the wastelands where she could mentally recover from her ordeal.

The female warriors who inhabit the wastelands handed her a bow and taught her to defend herself. Three years later, she's Flight Leader of a squadron of highly trained soldiers, and is capable of battling any enemy. But fate has different plans for Sophi, as one of the few remaining females of the noble class, she's being recalled to Sylvan Mintoth to claim her birthright.

ERIC

He had underestimated the endless capacity of his heart to feel joy.

Eric is the childhood friend of Queen Fleur and commander of her Royal Guard. He was hand selected by Doral to bring Sohi out of the wastelands and as candidate to become her partner in the rites.

Eric seems to be every bit as enthusiastic about the situation as Sophi, but he is honor bound to protect and escort her home... Sophi is nothing like the shell of a girl who fled Sylvan Mintoth three years earlier, she's a headstrong warrior and she has no patience for Eric.

The road from the wastelands to the palace is a long and treacherous one, they'll have to work together, trust, and fight side by side in order to survive...

Several differences between this book and the first:
- There was a focus on building trust and respect between the main characters.
- We had a MF romance rather than an MMF, and their relationship was encouraged but not forced like in Hers to Command...
- Eric & Sophi took their time before falling into bed, and when they did hit the sheets the chemistry was perfection.

In addition:
There was more action,
Sophi proves she's a badass,
There were several female warriors of worth,
and this book packed more emotion than the first in my opinion...

The Tetriarch played a large part in this book as well, so don't worry about missing our favorite Royal Threesome... Note to self: 'Royal Threesome' is an awesome band name...

Overall it was a wonderful experience, and I'm looking forward to reading more of the Verdantia series... I hear the next book has D/s elements, so I'm definitely on board!

Some of My Favorite Moments:

"...Honest ignorance can be remedied. Willful ignorance is nothing but poorly disguised prejudice and I have no patience for it.”

“Oh. I’ll get you a cloth to cover yourself.”
He could barely blow his nose on the scrap of cloth she handed him. He dangled it by a pitiful corner. “I am supposed to cover myself with this?”
Averting her eyes, she motioned to his groin area. “It appears it will do the job.”
“It’s the cold water. I’m usually much —oh, hells, never mind. Just change the gods-be-dammed bandage.”

“Sophi, love. Sex is not a life or death experience. Normally, it is mindless pleasure and play and romping and being silly. There is no room in my bed for solemn sacrifice . If you desire martyrdom in sex, you have the wrong man.”
He stood relaxed, his hands on his hips while she thought his words over.
“I would like to know mindless pleasure.”

"...As horny as I am, you could arouse me by clipping my fingernails.”

“Eric, your body’s a thing of beauty. You are like a beautifully made bow.” She ran her hands in a caress over his cleanly muscled thighs, dipping her thumbs into the crease where they met his groin. “Deadly utility disguised as glorious art.” “Sophi,” he groaned. “A bow? How about a golden god of manly parts or a bronzed warrior of studly proportions?”

“You make me bold, Eric.”

Eric shrugged in dismissal. “Sophi, I am only the setting and a roughly bracketed one at that. It is you are the rare jewel. I merely unshackle and direct the power She instills within you.”

He had underestimated the endless capacity of his heart to feel joy.

I want to fight with you and make love to you. I want years and years of ordinary days doing nothing with you.

“May we please allow a little normalcy to creep into all the madness? I would like a day —no, several—where I didn’t worry about you being killed, me being killed, or the fate of Verdantia.”

He’d completed the rebirth of the woman the Haarb had destroyed.


My Other Reviews in the Verdantia Series:

1 - Hers to Command - Read my review here
2 - Hers to Choose - You're Reading it!
3 - Hers To Cherish - Read my review here.
4 - Hers To Claim - Read my review here

[Malinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

**This was an ARC copy given by the author for a honest review**

5 stars

I'm so pleased that I received an ARC copy of Hers to Choose from the author. I loved the first book in the series and her second book did not disappoint. This was a great book! I love Sophi and Eric both separately and as a couple.

Sophi is the sister of Doral (one of the trio from the first book). She was taken captive by the invaders, the Haarb but was saved and brought home. She having issues dealing with regular society so she went to live with the desert people and come back to herself. It takes a few years but she manages to become a warrior and leader among her new people. She isn't happy to see Eric and his men coming to take her to her brother.

Eric is a good man. He always wanted to marry for love but with the the needs of the planet out weighing his wants he agrees to go get Sophi. When he meets her he promises that he wont take her against her will but asks her to give him a chance. She agrees to get to know him on their trip back to her brother.

I really enjoyed seeing Sophi and Eric's relationship grow, they compliment each other well. Sophi is unsure but brave enough to admit her attraction and make an effort to explore it and not run. Eric is all man but sweet as well. He does really well in his treatment of Sophie. He doesn't look down on her and her female warriors and gives her the respect she deserves. And she does deserve it because from the beginning trouble haunts their path and Sophie and her group of female warriors are quite helpful to Eric and his soldiers when the Haarb attack.

There is a lot of action to deal with as their relationship grows but there's a good balance between the action and relationship story line that kept me in to the story and constantly wanting to know what was happening next. I really can't remember a boring moment. The story had me laughing sometimes and reaching for a tissue other times. I loved how Eric was able to get back to Sophi after the ambush. What happened brought about an interesting change to Eric that saved the day when things looked the worst in the final battle of the book. I'll be interested to see how this plays out in future books!

This book gives us so much to look forward to with the series. I loved the characters, both ones from the first book and new ones. One of the characters introduced in this book is Ram, who will be the hero for the 3rd book in the series. I liked what I saw of Ram so I'm really looking forward to his story. There's also an enemy from the past that didn't get a solid resolution in this book. I suspect she'll be showing back up....mores the pity.

This book was great. I loved the characters and enjoyed the whole story. The end conflict had a definite wow factor that leads in to a sweet and satisfying ending. I can't wait for the next book in the series! I'd recommend this book. 2 thumbs way up! :D

11-29-15 - This was a reread of the story. I still think it's a great story and love the MCs. :)

[Lucy Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I'm in love with this series already.
I don't usually read a lot of science-fiction inspired romance, but I'm loving the style with the Verdantia Series.

[Stephanie- The Boyfriend Bookmark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in trouble now… first it was Travis Luedke and his amazingly hot vampires, now it’s Patricia A. Knight and her amazingly hot planet… Living outside of my comfort zone is becoming a bit of a habit and I am learning to love it! Hers To Choose is the follow up to Hers To Command and was simply amazing! My only concern was that I could only give it five stars. Now, this has been a dilemma of mine regarding certain vampires from past books I have read, but I never thought that I could fall in love with a planet that requires sex to survive… yes, the planet… I love this planet.

But more than the planet, I love the journey on its surface. Sophi is requested to join her brother tearing her from the family that has helped to heal years of pain she experienced when she was being held captive. But more than that, she has been requested to attempt to get to know Eric. The two of them are bound together by the forces of Verdantia and will help to make the planet stronger. Eric is the Commander of the Queens guard and has been sent to bring Sophi back to Doral, her brother. But her brother has one request, along the journey, she must attempt to get to know Eric and see if true compatibility is there. If it is, Sophi is to consider him to marry to create a stronger force for the planet. If it is not there, that will be the end of the discussion. She will not be forced to marry him the way so many people on the planet have been forced to do in the past.

What Eric isn’t ready to face on the journey back is the stubborn and strong-willed Sophi. She is now a Flight Leader and has her own team of warriors to work with, all skilled and trained, but will it be enough to get Sophi and Eric home?

Sophi is drawn to Eric. He is so strikingly handsome but the years of being a prisoner have left her heart scarred and she is not sure she can truly find happiness with any man. Eric knows that Sophi is beautiful and he is determined to show her exactly how he feels, but will there be enough time for them?

This journey, from the village where Sophi has lived for the past four years, is rough and not without problems. Evil forces are trying to kidnap her so they can use her as a bargaining tool to gain their power back.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat and the passion between Sophi and Eric was so undeniable and so hot that I could not put the book down. But then there were the battles and the evil forces and creatures… ugh! I am not sure I could have survived much more drama! Hers To Choose was captivating and full of passion, action and drama.

I actually went back and read it twice before I could sit down to write a review. Yes, it was that good! I wanted to capture in my mind every nuance of this story. I did not want to part with Eric or Sophi! I am now anxiously awaiting the third book in the Verdantia series, Hers to Cherish. I just want more of this planet and the people that live on it.

*I received a complimentary copy of Hers To Choose in exchange for an honest review*

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sophillia's life was turned upside down when her world was shattered. She's sold off into sexual slavery. The horrors she's experienced is traumatizing. Rescued and recovering back on her homeworld, she's still plagued with nightmares.

In this second installment from the talented Ms. Knight, an old enemy is back. Actually a couple of old enemies returned. What I find appealing about Ms. Knight's stories is her gritty no holds bar in death and torture. She doesn't go into excruciating details nor does she gloss over it. The aftermath of those who suffered at the hands of an evil enemy is just right.

Ms. Knight continues to add to this world. It captivates me. The sexual rituals are alluring. This one is less about ritual and more about erotic satiation. Characters from the previous book make a lovely cameo appearance. The focus is on Sophillia, Flight Leader and sexy Eric DeStroia. Both main characters are admirable. They are very relate-able to readers. While they are of the aristocratic class, they are down to earth. They embody the philosophy of protecting. They are also the perfect match for each other. I liked Eric's ability to look past a woman's beauty to see her worth. I liked Sohpillia's courageous journey from catatonic to warrior woman. The two of them coming together isn't easy. There are a few rough starts which after many bonding experiences through adversity, it smooths out.

This plot kept me up all night as I read through it in one sitting. I enjoyed how at each point, Sophillia and Eric's plans were foiled. They suffered a lot through loss of friends and sister/brothers in arms. Ms. Knight's careful building of power is very good. It makes the story follow a logical conclusion. I eagerly look forward to the next book. It seems there are a few hints to who will be showcased in the next novel. I recommend this to sci-fi/fantasy lovers who enjoy sweet sexual healing.

*I received this book as a review copy in return for an honest review

[Katrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 Stars. Hers to Choose is a wonderful follow-up of Hers to Command and an absolute pleasure to read. I loved Sophi, loved her strength and vulnerability, loved her ability to survive and re-build herself without becoming hard or brittle, but it is Eric who totally enamored me. What a beautiful, beautiful man Ms Knight created!! Nobel but down-to-earth, arrogant yet humble in all the right areas. For me, he brought Aragorn to mind, and as I have been in love with Aragorn for most of my life, please, Ms Knight, accept this comparison as a highest of compliments. The book have a feel of and reads more like a fantasy then a sci-fi, the passion between the characters is scorching, but at the same time there is a playfulness in it that is absolutely charming and on many occasions had me laughing out loud. The loss of the half star is due to the secondary characters, particularly the villagers - I found them sliding a bit too much in to medieval subservient stereotypes. I am unashamedly hooked. Ms Knight, more, pretty please!!

[Karen ~ Divhine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book by the author for review.

Hers to Choose is the second book of the Verdantia series. It is a great mixture of sci-fi adventure, erotica, non-stop action and humor. Sophi is one of my favorite heroines. She is brave, compassionate and has endured hardships from being kidnapped by the Haarb. She has become a Flight Leader and is very capable of taking care of herself. Eric is wonderful. He is kind and gentle, and at times frustrated with trying to protect Sophi. There are happy moments and other times sad and violent moments. I found Hers to Choose an exciting book and can’t wait for the next book in the series. Highly recommended.

[Michelle Willms · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hers to Choose by Patricia Knight
The planet Verdantia is sentient and can communicate with specific highly evolved beings while they are performing certain complex sexual rites designed to channel the planet’s energy into diamonte stones. These stones are then used for everything from heating to operating appliances. Modern technology does not work on Verdantia due to the high energy currents running throughout the planet.
The planet is currently ruled by a Tetriach, three people, who together perform the rituals necessary to maintain all the security barriers around the planet thus protecting the planet from invasion. Prior to the Tetriarch’s rule, Verdantia was invaded and many of her people kidnapped and sold into slavery. It took many years to locate most of the planet’s people.
Doral DeLorion, one of the members of the Tetriach, managed to rescue his sister, Sophi, from an invading Haarb pirate ship after a search lasting three years. When at last she was found, she had been tortured so brutally she was no longer able to function normally in society. Doral took her to live with the Oshtash, a people who did not depend upon the ancient rites for any of their needs.
Now, he needs her to return home and marry within one of the genetically appropriate families so their world can be repopulated and the many rites continued. There are only a few bloodlines that can communicate with Verdantia, so Sophi has been assigned a husband, Eric DeStroia.
DeStroia was Commander of the Queen’s Guard and was sent to retrieve Sophi from the Oshtash. While he, too, was being forced to marry, he vowed to do whatever necessary for his country and for the Tetriarch.
Patricia Knight has, once again, created a beautiful, passionate science fiction story that transports the reader into another world. This world becomes completely believable as passion ignites a room’s lighting system, and planetary invaders use hostages as egg depositories.
The plights of Sophi and of Eric, through Knight’s writing, become real and viable. The needs of varying cultures on Planet Verdantia become more than just something relevant in science fiction. Knight writes in a way that brings to light flaws with unilateral thinking in any society; her world building skills become more profound with each tale.
The couple’s relationship is not based merely upon passion. There are mature discussions, and interactions, though often with a variety of tertiary characters. Knight’s scenes of love-making are passionate and beautifully descriptive.
Hers to Choose is so captivating readers may be surprised to discover how quickly the time flies while reading it. Knight manages to enthrall and entertain readers with an exciting adventure that doesn’t end until the pages can no longer be turned.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed within this review are mine.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hers to Choose continues the story of Verdantia's recovery from a genocidal war. Sophi is a well-bred young woman of the aristocracy who has experienced untold horrors during a two year captivity under the evil Haarb. Eric is Commander of the Queen's Royal Guard, with enormous amounts of military skill, chivalry, and... well.... it's an erotic sci/fi romance, he's just all around enormous.

Like the first book, this one makes it clear how exquisitely beautiful she is and how he is beyond handsome and... larger than life. Also like the first one I liked both Sophi and Eric and enjoyed reading their story - which was told largely while the two of them are on there way from danger to safety and back again. It was a very exciting story and contained even more of the magic created by Verdantia's sentience, through sex between the right people.

Except for one horrific flash-back, we don't really find out exactly what Sophi endured under the Haarb. However, given the examples of their cruelty shown in this book, it must have been horrific indeed. The problems I had with this story - and they are relatively minor - was my inability to suspend disbelief in several areas. It made little sense that Sophi survived her captivity unscathed physically, given the Haarb penchant for grotesque body modifications. Another part that made no sense to me was when Fleur - the Verdantian queen who starred in the first book - decided to leave the safety of the capital so she could come along too (you'll have to read the story to find out what she came along for ;P).

Sophi is supposedly the only other remaining magistra besides Fleur (female able to conduct Verdantian magic), which makes both women absolutely essential to the survival of the planet. So the queen (who never exhibited such childish disregard for her safety in the first book) blithely decides to "come along" into certain danger? This bit annoyed me, and, frankly, didn't add much of anything to the story.

Other than those quibbles, the story was exciting, hot, and not at all easy to put down. I recommend it to those who enjoy erotic sci/fi romance.

[~ Lei ~ Reading Is An Adventure ~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received ARC from the author for an honest review*
✰✰✰✰
We knew at the end of that Doral and Sophilia had endured some horrifying treatment at the hands of the Contradinas and Sophi was kidnapped by the Haarb and used as a sex slave for years so there was some reckoning and healing that needed to be done so this was a little less light-hearted than Hers To Command.

Sophi and Eric's romance was slow to build as befitting Sophi's character as a rape survivor, there was an initial attraction but they became friends first. This story was even more action-packed than #1 and Sophi and Eric had to deal directly with the fallout of the aristocracy's failure to protect Verdantia in the first place, causing the invasion and war so this was interesting since Book #1 dealt with getting the sigils back up to protect the planet and Fleur, Ari and Doral were a bit disconnected from the Verdantian survivors and their lack of resources and feelings toward the aristocracy.

Sexin' was hot and creative, (although I did miss it being a menage, but great for you all who shy away from menage) - a solid 4-stars from me and looking forward to which is Ram and Steffani's story - hint, hint, shibari is involved. It was nice to revisit Fleur, Ari and Doral.

Since Krakoll and Allegra have not paid their dues, I'm guessing we'll be seeing them in Book #3

[R *is for Relentless* · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Another great scifi/adventure/romance set in the world of Verdantia. The ultimate in "Green Energy" the planet has chosen two more to power up her energy grid and save the day. This book is about about Sophi and Eric. Sophi had been a captive of the alien Haarb and Krakoll ( the super evil bad guy)wants her back. She has found peace in the last few years living with the desert dwelling Osh-tesh on Verdantia. Her world is about to collide with Eric who is a force of nature himself. The world building and character development was just as good in this book as the last. I felt this book was a little darker than the first. There are instances of torture that are described in a way that may disturb some. The battle scenes are very graphic.
There was only one instance in the book that drew me out of the story In one love scene Sophi is thinking she has only been with a few men and how "tight" she is. o.O I thought she was a slave on a Haarb battleship and it was implied that she had been abused sexually during that time. That was why she was in the desert with the Osh-tesh to recover. It could be that she hadn't been with anyone since she had been with the Oshtesh (4 years) but it wasn't explained that way)
If you are looking for a scifi erotic romance with a fully developed story and hot sex scenes I recommend this series and this book. Go Green! I know I'm already looking forward to the next one!

[Elizabeth SaFleur · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just read Hers to Choose, or perhaps I should write I just “flew” threw the book. This is the second book I've read of Patricia Knights’. Hers to Choose is a real page turner. I was left breathless in parts – just the way I like my erotic romance. The caring, warrior hero, Eric DeStroia and the vulnerable but feisty heroine, Sophi DeLorion, are compelled to consider one another out of duty, but the love that emerges blooms in a realistic and captivating fashion. Patricia again created deep and meaningful characters and painted their evolution with care – and gave us some wonderful surprises along the way, too.

Patricia has a terrific sense of humor, imbibing her characters with wit and charm, showing us that even in troubled times, heroes and heroines needn't be mired in deadly seriousness and significance every second of their journey, too. Such a nice relief in the heaviness that can accompany fantasy involving a war.

I highly recommend this book if you like fantasy/sci fi erotic romance.

[Krissys Bookshelf Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely great!
I am really happy I was lucky enough to get a copy of Hers to Choose because I have found a fabulous new author to enjoy. Patricia has done a marvelous job creating well developed characters and a detailed plot for her readers to follow.
I enjoyed the book so much that I actually read it a second time right after finishing it.
I really liked seeing a strong female lead as well as a determined but soft hearted hero to adore.
The journey of lessons learned despite the hardships in their lives so that love can take root and bloom between the spunky personalities of both lead characters was delightful and entertaining.

Bravo for Patricia Knight I can't wait to read more in the future!

[Karen Soutar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Verdantia series and it lives up to expectations! Having read the first book, Hers to Command, I was eagerly awaiting this follow up. A great mixture of sci-fi adventure and erotica, the story follows Sophi, a young woman abused while a captive of her planet's enemies, and Eric, the commander who is charged with protecting her with a view to taking her as his wife. Patricia A. Knight once again creates sympathetic, feisty and sexy characters who come to love each other after a shaky start. But enemies still lurk in the background waiting to strike...I won't say more - read the book! Beautifully described sex scenes combined with exciting adventure make this a must-read. Highly recommended.

[Dalene · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, I would like to thank Patricia A. Knight for sending me this book for an honest review. Second, I have to ask, did Travis pose for the cover? :) Again, Patricia did a great job with her world building and characters. I loved the story from beginning to end. Eric and Sophie are amazing characters, and Sophie has had a lot she had to overcome, and more when she meets Eric. The secondary characters also were very well done. Keep them coming Patricia, I am hooked, I so ready to read the next book in the series. I guessed who the next main male character was going to be while reading this book, but didn't know who the female lead was going to be until I read the blurb.

[Ellie Potts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love love love this series. I love the work put into the planets mythos and the people. I love how the stories go together yet not. This one is by far my favorite. I loved Eric and Sophie. Sophie was hurt and abused and Eric understand that. I cannot wait for the next pairing, and to see what else Patricia Knight throws at me. And man did I get a laugh out of the glowing bit! If you like science fiction romances this series is a must read. Great fast plots, characters you will fall in love with, and some hot sex as well!

[Rustye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hers to Choose is the second book of the Verdantia series and a great sequel to the first book. This book moves from the minute you start reading and does not slow until the end. There is never a dull moment and the characters are wonderful. Sophi has got to be one of my favorite heroines and Eric is a total hunk! Ms. Knight has the enviable ability to write an interesting and engaging sci-fi romance with warm and tender love scenes. I can hardly wait for the next book!

I received an ARC for an honest review.

[Cheryl Sanders · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Verdantia series. Fantastic action from the first page to the last! This is the story of Commander Eric DeStroia and Flight Leader Sophi DeLorian. Amazing characters with fantastic story lines that flowed smoothly throughout the entire book. This is a fabulous sci-fi romance with some remarkably steamy scenes. You will also get to re-visit Ari, Doral, and Fleur from book 1.
*I received a copy for an honest review*

[Kae Thomas Hawk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love love loved it. She did an awesome job keeping my interest. I especially liked that it was not your typical paranormal story and that it was set mostly in the desert. Will add any new book by her.

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Gayle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as a goodreads contest giveaway. Although I didn't noticed this was the 2nd book in the series it took a minute to get into the rhythm of the story but once I did it was great! Sexual content was just right, also included a couple battle scenes. Was a good read.

[Christine Hayes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Turned out to be really good for a freebie.Enjoyed the story and characters.Would like to read more from this author

[Dana aka ♥Belladonna♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Patricia Knight is so much fun to read!

[Elnora Romness · Rating 5 out of 5]

Women around the world are mishandled, abused, made to feel as though they are less than nothing. This maltreatment causes many to withdraw into shells, building walls thousands of feet high in an attempt to never be hurt ever again. For that matter, this happens to men to. What happens, however, when someone broaches that wall with barely trying? What happens when the protective defenses of a planet are literally fueled by two lovers tending one another? What happens when evil tries to conquer love?
LONG STORY SHORT
I. Want. This. Book. Made. Into. A. Movie. Posthaste!!!!!!! Lead man - Chris Hemsworth. Lead woman - me....or someone who is actually blonde, I guess. :P

"Hers to Choose" is quite simply one of the best books I've had the pleasure of reading in a long time. Knight deftly weaves a tale of magikal intrigue, romance, love, hate, war, carnal pleasure, and suspense that grabs readers by their shirttails for a whirlwind of a ride, carrying them along in a wave of literary pleasure that is wholly gratifying by the end.

Sophi is a woman who has been hurt...cruelly and for years. Eric is a man who is known as somewhat of a beast both on the battlefield and in bed. Sophi's brother sends Eric to bring his stubborn sister who has some war-like skills of her own back from a settlement in order to be wed to Eric...if Sophi is willing....but can she open her heart to a man after being hurt for so long? Will war conquer the day when those who had held her captive come back to claim her?

Amazing plot? Check. Characters that absolutely demand your whole attention, making you care about their being? Check. Gut-wrenching adventure that refuses to release your mind from its captivating dance? Check Check! Um, well-written steamy scenes that perfectly balance the rest of the book and do not dominate the work? Check!

In short, I give this work a 5 out of 5!!

LONG STORY
In the words of the infamous George Takei, "oh myyyyyyyyyyyyyy"!!!!!!!

Imagine a world where there are clear class divides, and those at top literally power defensive shields for the planet, among other life-sustaining, things when they come together and tend one another physically. Oh, and by the way, this "power" is only contained within the genes of a particular few.

Imagine a world decimated by war after a brutal and malicious breed of beings who excel at genetic manipulation discover a substance on that world that is a powerful aphrodisiac worth our equivalent of billions of dollars.

Imagine a woman. A breath-takingly beautiful woman who was stolen away from her home world to become an unwilling sexual attraction and plaything to the aforementioned brutal breed of beings.

Now, imagine that woman is home again and seeking healing and respite...far away from anything resembling those "men" creatures who hurt her so badly. Oh, and her brother sends a hauntingly handsome man to escort her back to a major city where her union with this man is being considered.

Oh boy!

No....oh myyyyyyyyyyyyy!

So, that's about the plot in a nutshell. Sophi does not make it easy for Eric to bring her back to her brother - she has spent time honing her survival skills, cares deeply for those under her command, holds a devastatingly strong distrust and fear of men and anything approaching anything physical, and is determined to hold onto her freedom. Eric, on the other hand, is a military leader who is accustomed to winning his way no matter what, both on the battlefield and in the bedroom. Women want him...except this one. What a challenge!!

I love this book. I come close to absolutely adoring this book. The story hooked me right away. C'mon - even the cover is enticing...who can look away from that man's smoldering gaze? Now, this is the second book in a series. I have not read the first book (though I certainly want to now!). This didn't really matter. Sure, there were some things that would have come a bit more easily if I'd read the first book, but that did not prevent this from being an absolutely amazing work by itself. Knight has skillfully written a work that has just enough detail from the previous story to explain what is going on in the present, but does not spend so much time in the past as to neglect the present.

I came to truly care for these characters. These are people with whom I could break bread - the broken in one form or another. Sophi distrusts men, and for good reason. Eric is battle-hardened. Their voices are distinct from one another - even if "he said...she said" was not clearly lined out in a few conversations, it was very clear who was speaking. That being said, each voice in this work was clearly distinct. Thank you, Knight, for realizing that each character needs to have its own personality and that personality needs to be evident. You did a fine job here. =)

Let's see...Knight's writing style is simply a joy to read. She is not dealing with light topics. Abuse, particularly sexual abuse, is never a light topic. Learning to trust again after being abused is not a light topic. Dealing with the slaughter of innocents is not a light topic. Yet Knight is able to weave a shiny thread of humor throughout this work that keeps readers reading rather than getting bogged down in the despair of it all. This is not a humor that diminishes any of the negative things that have happened, but rather the humor that one must see in life to endure it.

Want to know one of my favorite things about this book? I am forever annoyed by sex scenes in movies or literary works where everything goes perfectly. The two sexual partners absolutely go at each other, but somehow the woman's makeup is rarely mussed and her hair is still perfect after the night of debauchery. The man's pointy hair is still pointy, and he's oiled to an attractive shine. Where is the farting at unexpected moments? Where is the squirrel's nest that women with any amount of wave in their hair must deal with upon coming up for air? Where are the little bumps, insecurities, and mess-ups that make interaction between lovers real, human, and something to which people can relate? Well, Knight has all of that here! Now, I'm not saying that any of the people in this book farted, but there are "real" moments between lovers that happen - things not going quite as planned, etc.

That being said, there are several places in this book that are more steamy in nature than I want my son to read. Ever. :P And they are very well written in a way that is about as far away from smut as one can get.

What else do you want to hear about? How the plot, writing style, characters, setting and such come together in a wonderful meld of pure literary gold? How the action moves quickly and refuses to let readers rest? How the book makes readers want more? Okay, well there you have it!

Perhaps I should share one of my favorite passages?

"Eric forced one foot in front of the other. Fatigue crushed him. He fought a battle of self-discipline with every footstep. The wall became a convenient leaning post. The floor sang a siren's song of enticement. Sliding down to the wooden planking and never getting up seemed a magnificent idea. Damnation, I am getting some sleep. Everything else can wait."

Haven't we all been that tired at one point or another? As a toddler's mother, I'm that tired regularly. I just love how she described it! I love the verbal interplay between Sophi and Eric (think Beatrice and Benedict in Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing"). I loved that I had a hard time putting this work down. Seriously, I lost some sleep. :)

Setting is fantastic, characters are fantastic, plot is fantastic, voice is fantastic (though Knight shifts point of view around regularly, she does so in a way that is not confusing at all)...everything about this book is just fantastic. : )

(And before you get all upset with me that as a Christian woman I'm rating a book with multiple steamy scenes as "fantastic", remember that God encourages a man and woman to couple. Sex is not the problem. What people do with sex is the problem.)

The Bugly
Honestly, my only major pet peeve with this book (I know, shocking, right?) is that the names of places and people's titles got a bit confusing in places. Knight would have served readers well to include a glossary of names and places.

Oh, okay fine - the "science" in this book is a little questionable. Sex fueling the life energy of a planet? C'mon. Yet as readers we are often called upon to suspend reality for the sake of a well-written plot, and this is certainly a well-written plot!

Now go get this book! ; )

See my blog - ogcmat.blogspot.com - for more reviews!

[Jennifer (Bad Bird Reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

http://readingandwritingurbanfantasy....

At A Glance
I enjoyed the story but found myself bored sometimes.

The Good
I didn't read the first book of the series, but I had no problems since Hers To Choose reads like a standalone for the most part. I was drawn to this story just from reading the blurb. I can't help but love damaged people finding love. I wasn't expecting the action Knight packed between these pages though. That was a nice surprise. And the darkness of the story scared and fascinated me.

Sophillia has lived years as a slave to her enemy. Now free, she has grown from a meek, quiet woman to a fierce, strong warrior. You have to respect a woman who can fight the nightmares of a horrible past and come out stronger and braver than before. I loved her tenacity and ability to keep it together during bad situations.

Eric is the epitome of the words alpha warrior. He knows how to keep his cool despite his crazy feelings for Sophillia. He may be a fierce fighter, but he is so gentle and caring with Sophillia's fears. He really was the perfect mate for Sophillia.

What stood out to me the most in Hers To Choose is the world-building and descriptions. The detail of the land, the buildings, everything really was just amazing. And the complicated politics and workings of the planet and species made me crave more. The violence was a surprise but it really added darkness to this story that I liked.

The Bad
I am not a heavy sci-fi/ fantasy reader. So things that bothered me in this book might not bother others who are use to this genre. But I found myself bored pretty often throughout the book. Between the amazing action, there were scenes that just lagged. I am not use to so many lulls.

The names of people and places were weird and confusing. I never really got them straight and often felt confused.

I felt like Sophillia's past was an untapped gold mind. We learned little of her capture and slavery even though it was a huge experience that made her who she is today.

I never connected with any of the characters as I hoped.

The Snuggly
The romance took some time to come, but once it did, it was super hot. (Two words: Body. Glue. LOL) But I wouldn't really classify it as full-on erotica, but it's not for the easily embarrassed either. I loved the sexual tension Knight built between Sophillia and Eric. They may have been thrown together in the beginning, but they obviously gained true feelings for each other by the end.

Final Thoughts
I liked the story and world-building of Hers To Choose, I just wish I had a better connection with the characters and wasn't bored so often. I think it's an overall good sci-fi/fantasy book that many would enjoy. Recommended.

Quotes
“She lay there, destroyed, quiet aftershocks shuddering through her. Silence settled into the room.

“Mind letting go of my hair, Sophi?” His muffled voice vibrated against her pubic bone.

“Oh!” She released her fists still violently clenched in his hair. He raised his head, laughter gleaming in his eyes.”

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first, I wasn’t quite as impressed with Hers to Choose as I was with Hers to Command . I didn’t feel as grounded in the story or connected to Eric, although I liked Sophi. She was strong and independent, yet still fighting guilt from her time as a Haarb slave. By the fifth or sixth chapter, however, I warmed up to Eric. It was my stubborn expectation of a repeat of the first book, I believe, that held me back.

I think I just wanted to see some action, *nudge nudge wink wink.* However, if their relationship had developed faster, it wouldn’t have shown how Sophi heals and overcomes the damage the Haarb did to her soul. Thus, I did like how their relationship progressed, and how other plot elements were woven into the story. It wasn’t entirely sex ( They actually don’t start getting lusty loins until about 25% ). It is more... romantic a development than in Hers to Command but that’s good—it gives the story a different feel. It also has more heart-pounding action intermixed with slow romance instead of political tension and insatiable passion. It’s like the pacing was reversed! Very nice!

When we learn about Sylvester Contradina and his aunt (oh, the description of her!), my interest was piqued even more. I was not disappointed by this book whatsoever!

One stylistic note: the italics for Flight leader and flight in general were annoying. Italics for other terms, emphasized words, and inner dialogue occurred often enough that these two became visually distracting. Aside from that, I have no complaints.

Fantastic – 5 stars!

[Lynn Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4 1/2 stars

I received this book for review from the author. I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review.

This book is totally different from book one. In the first book of this series, we had some BDSM, and then we had some M/M, M/F, and M/F/M sex action. This book is more about the love between two people – one who is comfortable in his sexuality and one who the enemy has traumatized.

You will need to be aware that some of the scenes with the enemy can be a little graphic but it is necessary. Patricia needed to show how evil the enemy really was. But please don’t let those scenes turn you off. These scenes help the reader get to know more about the people of Verdantia. Also, Patricia continues the theme of the power of sex to renew the planet. Can you imagine if we had that kind of power?

Just like in book one, this is not a story that you don’t want to rush. We are watching a world come back to life and renewing its energy sources. I think this would make a great series on the SyFy Channel. The problem for me would be who to cast as the main characters. I think that I would love to see little known actors and actresses – watch them bring Patricia’s characters to life.

Now once you finish reading this book, don’t forget to mark book three for your to-read list. I was surprised to see what character she chose to be the hero. It will be interesting to see how our author takes the next step in teaching her readers about Verdantia.

[Joy · Rating 2 out of 5]

335 pages

Book two in the Verdantia series of three. Fantasy isn’t really my thing but the blurb sounded good enough to at least give it a try. There’s lots of reviews so I’m limiting mine to my thoughts rather than repeat what’s already been said.



SPOILERY WARNING

Immediately on opening the reader is introduced to the H having sex with a courtesan and details are not spared. Damnit I really don’t like it when authors go down this track, it taints the entire read for me no matter how kind, decent and honourable Eric eventually proved to be...despite a sudden reluctance to continue I pushed ahead anyway.

Sophi’s a rape survivor, a captive sex slave of the Haarb for four years until she was rescued by her brother. Actual survivors of rape will snort in incredulous disbelief at her insta attraction to Eric two years after being rescued. Truly if only it were that simple.

Erotica this is not. The ménage from book one between Fleur, Ari and Doral shares some of the spotlight but nowhere near enough in my estimation to topple it into erotica but it might be enough to persuade readers to go back and read book one if that’s your thing. The romance was not so different to what you’d find in most main stream romance today except here it was secondary to keeping Sophi safe from the invading Haarb.

In reality I’ll leave the fantasy to fantasy lovers. It's not really my thing after all.

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

3+ stars

The second book in the Verdantia series doesn't disappoint. But this time, the Dune aspect takes front-and-center in the Star Trek meets Dune meets New Age/Goddess/Pagan Rites meets Erotica. And once again, it's not just a thin plot holding together steamy sex scenes; it's a fun, sci-fi, fantasy romp that explores characters we met in book 1, Eric and Sophilla (Doral's sister).

The author doesn't indulge in the tough-subject-matter territory, but she also doesn't shy away from the terrors that Sophi faced while kidnapped and forced into sexual slavery to the Haarb. We see the aftermath of that experience in Sophi's level of trust and ability to accept just who and what she is... and to even think about the possibility of trying to have that "normal" life that she pictured for herself before being captured by the Haarb.

We also explore Eric's personality. At times, he seems too good to be true, but nothing goes against what we know of him in book 1. And he's the right match in personality, character, and strength for Sophi.

The suspense/thriller part comes into play when we learn that the horrid Haarb that we met in book 1 is on the planet and after Sophi, intending to ransom her for his freedom. We also discover another villain who we thought was gone is in play... and boy, what a vicious, nasty one!

There's a bit of heartwarming in the HEA, and lots of comedy, especially when we see the triumvirate back in action again.

[Drako Drako · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this one picks up a few years at least after the first book. The Tetriarch, the, uh, trio from the last book are clearly happily married…..or together. Not entirely sure on that one but hey, they’ve got kids, they rule the planet, and they’re happy. Doral apparently wants his sister happy and settled, but the planet also needs her for her genetics. Enter Eric Destroia, leader of the queen’s personal guard.

Sophi is resistant. She’d been prisoner to her race’s mortal enemies, the Haarb, for years and was subjected to plenty of abuse. She’s found herself in a home for single women who can’t stand the main Verdantian society. She’s become a warrior in her own right, but clearly still fears committment.

Contrary to popular belief, I’m a fan of all erotica. I enjoyed this. I liked watching Sophi struggle with herself, giving excuses for each step she takes before deciding she’s in love with Eric. I found it rather hilarious to see how she talked once she got more comfortable with him. Once I got to reading, I found myself very irritated with having to stop. I wanted to continue, and now I want more in the series.

[Heather in FL · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another interesting story in the Verdantia series. Lady Sophilia had been utterly broken being a sex slave to the Haarb. After she was rescued, she couldn't handle life at court, couldn't handle the men's looks as they were mesmerized by her beauty, so she went to live with the Oshtesh, a group of people who were desert dwellers and didn't really believe in the aristocracy or the magic of Verdantia. Among the Oshtesh, she flourished.

Eric DeStroia has been sent to bring Sophilia home so she can live out her birthright. Her brother, Doral, wants her to marry Eric, but Eric won't make her, especially knowing her history. And the Haarb want her back. Desperately. Lots of treachery and deceit among certain people of Verdantia. But in the midst of them trying to return Sophilia to her original home and fending off attacks and such, Sophilia and Eric actually do fall in love.

Another very interesting story with some steamy parts. I thought the incollare was a particularly inventive idea, lol.