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The Little Ships #1
Head Above Water
No memories.
No rescue.
Just one determined alien. When I wake up bloody and bruised beneath the lurid glow of emergency lighting, I know I’m in trouble, and that’s before I realize I don’t even remember my name. I only have a minute to catch my breath before I learn the worst part…I’m not alone. The monster that overtakes me from the shadows of my crashed spaceship is the stuff of nightmares, and he’s decided he’s going to help me whether I want him to or not. We’ll need to work together to survive—and hopefully, return home, wherever that may be for both of us. With no common language outside of hand gestures and sketches in the dirt, communicating is a challenge, but the attraction that binds us ignites faster than a forest fire. I may not find my memory in this alien jungle, but I just might discover my heart. Head Above Water is a slow burn standalone MM (male/male) romance.
No rescue.
Just one determined alien. When I wake up bloody and bruised beneath the lurid glow of emergency lighting, I know I’m in trouble, and that’s before I realize I don’t even remember my name. I only have a minute to catch my breath before I learn the worst part…I’m not alone. The monster that overtakes me from the shadows of my crashed spaceship is the stuff of nightmares, and he’s decided he’s going to help me whether I want him to or not. We’ll need to work together to survive—and hopefully, return home, wherever that may be for both of us. With no common language outside of hand gestures and sketches in the dirt, communicating is a challenge, but the attraction that binds us ignites faster than a forest fire. I may not find my memory in this alien jungle, but I just might discover my heart. Head Above Water is a slow burn standalone MM (male/male) romance.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2023
152 people are currently reading
414 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
May 23, 2024
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
I still really loved Jace and Sohven’s story the second time around. The slow unveiling of Jace’s past, the mystery of the alien planet, the adventures, the loving relationship between the two, the language barrier.
The alien scenery mixed with the whole amnesia aspect was what made this read a little different, a little more special.
There are a couple of underdeveloped parts, some plot holes and some unanswered questions, but for a debut I still found it a lovely and fun read.
The spice was sizzling, the alien anatomy a bit reminiscent of a couple of Lily Mayne’s beasties.
It was all fun and light, sweet and spicy and I’m so glad we get a second installment, because I need more.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Amnesia
- Alien x human
- Forced proximity
- Language barrier
- Size difference
- Atypical anatomy
- Frotting
- Rimming
- Strict top/bottom
Original review 15/08/23
Fun and captivating adventure-filled plot, a human with amnesia and a swoony alien — this alien sci-fi romance has it all!
Their relationship is adorable, filled with cute moments, a language barrier and steamy times.
A bit of a slow burn, but very much worth the wait!
POV: 1st person, single (only Jace’s)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
⋆⁺₊⋆⟢ I’ve spent the majority of my time on this planet looking for ways to leave. Now that I realize what I might lose if I return, I’m no longer certain the rescue will be worth the price. ⟣⋆⁺₊⋆
I still really loved Jace and Sohven’s story the second time around. The slow unveiling of Jace’s past, the mystery of the alien planet, the adventures, the loving relationship between the two, the language barrier.
The alien scenery mixed with the whole amnesia aspect was what made this read a little different, a little more special.
There are a couple of underdeveloped parts, some plot holes and some unanswered questions, but for a debut I still found it a lovely and fun read.
“Sohven,” I sigh into the air, “I don’t ever think I’ll get enough of you.”
The spice was sizzling, the alien anatomy a bit reminiscent of a couple of Lily Mayne’s beasties.
It was all fun and light, sweet and spicy and I’m so glad we get a second installment, because I need more.
“I love you, you know that right? And I loved you all over again, even when I didn’t know. You’re it for me, big guy. End game.”
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Amnesia
- Alien x human
- Forced proximity
- Language barrier
- Size difference
- Atypical anatomy
- Frotting
- Rimming
- Strict top/bottom
Original review 15/08/23
Fun and captivating adventure-filled plot, a human with amnesia and a swoony alien — this alien sci-fi romance has it all!
Their relationship is adorable, filled with cute moments, a language barrier and steamy times.
A bit of a slow burn, but very much worth the wait!
POV: 1st person, single (only Jace’s)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2024
2.75⭐ - Completely underwhelming.
I don't even know what to say about this book. It's about humans, aliens and space exploration, but at the same time it's so underdeveloped considering the premise, that the reading was utterly unsatisfying.
🟣 Alien/human
🟢 Head injury, amnesia
🔵 MMCs are together already
🟡 Stranded on an alien planet
🟠 'Slow burn', very slow paced
🌶️ Some smut, well written but not that intriguing because of the story itself
This story starts somewhere in the middle with no background and for the majority of the book I had absolutely no idea where this was leading. It turns out the MMCs are already a couple, but literally nothing hints to that during almost the whole book - and yes, that little info was needed.
Jace, the human and Sohven, the alien, are on this particular alien planet where Jace wakes up amidst the shipwreck, doesn't recognise Sohven as his partner and runs away. Now, we don't know until 90% of the book that Sohven is actually Jace's partner. Maybe because their chemistry is non existent. You can't imagine it even if you'd want to.
Their dialogues consist only of
"Water?"
"Iayo?"
and that's all they talk about all the entire time they're together, no desire to teach each other the language or anything. Jace dreams up his memories occasionally and gets the idea that he must've been some kind of first-contact expert, but for such an expert he sure does suck.
The book goes in complete detail about how these two are preparing their food and how they're managing to find clean water - but that's it! That's all they do!
Somewhere down the line there's some sex involved, but there's absolutely no special, familiar intimacy between them, I felt no connection considering they're a couple of 2 years and Jace is Sohven's fated mate? How is that possible? If Jace'd at least have more intense flashbacks and felt at least something while touching Sohven, but there was nothing, only some alien sex, could've been with anyone, really.
Jace's character is quite disappointing. Not only was he too stubborn for no damn reason whatsoever, he doesn't seem really smart either and Jace's guessing about Sohven's intelligence, waiting all the time if he'll produce some kind of humane gesture or word seemed almost laughable.
I was at 90% of the book and the only development was Jace and Sohven's crew coming to rescue them. Even when they were rescued, literally nothing substantial happened between them. The book ended with them just joining the crew and having a drink. The epilogue was even worse, giving us what the prologue should give us - the moment these two met and got together.
What kind of world do these guys live in? How do humans and aliens work together? What happened in Jace's past that he left his job? He's obviously now preventing trafficking of other aliens but literally nothing is said about it? How did him and Sohven even get together?
So many damn questions, yet the book answers nothing, not a damn thing.
It would be so, so much better if we could read more about their past, how they met, how they got involved, just to get an idea of their relationship prior to this accident.
The double POV was TERRIBLY missing, it was awful being in someone's head 100% of the time with Jace's past and present combined with a head injury with no other input whatsoever.
I liked the cover, liked the ideas, don't really get the title and hopefully the author can construct their next book a bit differently for us to really enjoy it, tell us all the details and the background and do some witchcraft with the chemistry, because it's sorely lacking, in everything. The smut is well written but also lacks that passionate note where one really feels the desire and the connection.
Double POV. Double POV. Double POV. 🙏
I don't even know what to say about this book. It's about humans, aliens and space exploration, but at the same time it's so underdeveloped considering the premise, that the reading was utterly unsatisfying.
🟣 Alien/human
🟢 Head injury, amnesia
🔵 MMCs are together already
🟡 Stranded on an alien planet
🟠 'Slow burn', very slow paced
🌶️ Some smut, well written but not that intriguing because of the story itself
This story starts somewhere in the middle with no background and for the majority of the book I had absolutely no idea where this was leading. It turns out the MMCs are already a couple, but literally nothing hints to that during almost the whole book - and yes, that little info was needed.
Jace, the human and Sohven, the alien, are on this particular alien planet where Jace wakes up amidst the shipwreck, doesn't recognise Sohven as his partner and runs away. Now, we don't know until 90% of the book that Sohven is actually Jace's partner. Maybe because their chemistry is non existent. You can't imagine it even if you'd want to.
Their dialogues consist only of
"Water?"
"Iayo?"
and that's all they talk about all the entire time they're together, no desire to teach each other the language or anything. Jace dreams up his memories occasionally and gets the idea that he must've been some kind of first-contact expert, but for such an expert he sure does suck.
The book goes in complete detail about how these two are preparing their food and how they're managing to find clean water - but that's it! That's all they do!
Somewhere down the line there's some sex involved, but there's absolutely no special, familiar intimacy between them, I felt no connection considering they're a couple of 2 years and Jace is Sohven's fated mate? How is that possible? If Jace'd at least have more intense flashbacks and felt at least something while touching Sohven, but there was nothing, only some alien sex, could've been with anyone, really.
Jace's character is quite disappointing. Not only was he too stubborn for no damn reason whatsoever, he doesn't seem really smart either and Jace's guessing about Sohven's intelligence, waiting all the time if he'll produce some kind of humane gesture or word seemed almost laughable.
I was at 90% of the book and the only development was Jace and Sohven's crew coming to rescue them. Even when they were rescued, literally nothing substantial happened between them. The book ended with them just joining the crew and having a drink. The epilogue was even worse, giving us what the prologue should give us - the moment these two met and got together.
What kind of world do these guys live in? How do humans and aliens work together? What happened in Jace's past that he left his job? He's obviously now preventing trafficking of other aliens but literally nothing is said about it? How did him and Sohven even get together?
So many damn questions, yet the book answers nothing, not a damn thing.
It would be so, so much better if we could read more about their past, how they met, how they got involved, just to get an idea of their relationship prior to this accident.
The double POV was TERRIBLY missing, it was awful being in someone's head 100% of the time with Jace's past and present combined with a head injury with no other input whatsoever.
I liked the cover, liked the ideas, don't really get the title and hopefully the author can construct their next book a bit differently for us to really enjoy it, tell us all the details and the background and do some witchcraft with the chemistry, because it's sorely lacking, in everything. The smut is well written but also lacks that passionate note where one really feels the desire and the connection.
Double POV. Double POV. Double POV. 🙏
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2023
This is a 3, maybe 3.5 for me, which is slightly skewed upward because of my usual leniency on debut novels. Most of this book is pretty good, more like a 4-4.5 level book. But there's a few problems that drag it down, unfortunately.
First, the ending seemed hella fast. Up until like 85% ish, the book moves at a fairly slow speed. Then Jace gets treatment and it's like everything resolves. I kind of get it because of the whole amnesia thing but still, that aspect seemed disjointed. It needed to be stretched a bit more.
Second, Jace is annoying as FUUUUUCK sometimes. He's so goddamn stubborn that it just becomes exhausting to read his thoughts. He's been nonstop threatened by this planet, but he still balks at Sohven trying to protect him and help him out? Like Sohven would carry Jace if he was feeling weak from lack of food, but nooooo Jace can't possibly be okay with that. Repeat by 100x and you can see how it becomes tedious. I just didn't like his character much.
Third, and this might have some bearing on what I just said about Jace... this needed dual POV. I get that it would have been difficult considering the amnesia stuff, but something needed to be figured out. Sohven feels so one-dimensional because we don't see hardly anything of him. Jace and Sohven never really communicate well or to any reasonable length. Sohven could have been any character, easily replaceable. That's how undefined he feels.
Tangent to that, there are some serious plotholes regarding Jace and Sohven's communication. ⚠️ The rest of this paragraph is going to contain spoilers, so be warned. ⚠️ Okay so, Sohven understood Jace the whole time but Jace didn't know that. Sohven knew Jace didn't know that. So why didn't Sohven sit Jace down and get him to understand, via nonverbal communication, that Sohven can actually understand him? Or use written language to communicate. Because Sohven is clearly capable. Sure, it wouldn't have been perfect but there would have been tons of ways either or both of these men could communicate nonverbally. They had already done it with the word for "eat." It just doesn't make sense. And with the mutual understanding that Sohven can understand Jace, that should have led to Jace forming yes/no questions for Sohven. And thus they communicate, all is well.
Sure, I get it would have invalidated most of the book, but I just can't suspend belief that much. Two very intelligent men can't figure out how to nonverbally communicate, or by writing? That's some big eyeroll, sorry.
- - - - -
Overall, this is an okay read. The author has talent, clearly. But I think more attention should be put towards editing and/or beta reads so that glaring issues like the discussed plot holes, abrupt ending, and inadequate character development don't make it to publication.
These problems are mostly in the "new author" category of issues, though, all reasonably fixable stuff. Given the author's inherent skill visible in the underlying writing, I have faith that they'll do better with these kinds of issues in their next publication. I will definitely be on the lookout for future books.
Afterthought: Author, if you read this, perhaps consider writing in past tense. The present tense + first person was okay, but it got distracting on a couple occasions. I think that has more to do with the fact that present is pretty rare in the MM I read so I'm less used to it. Not a huge deal to me, frankly, but I know some care about it a lot more.
First, the ending seemed hella fast. Up until like 85% ish, the book moves at a fairly slow speed. Then Jace gets treatment and it's like everything resolves. I kind of get it because of the whole amnesia thing but still, that aspect seemed disjointed. It needed to be stretched a bit more.
Second, Jace is annoying as FUUUUUCK sometimes. He's so goddamn stubborn that it just becomes exhausting to read his thoughts. He's been nonstop threatened by this planet, but he still balks at Sohven trying to protect him and help him out? Like Sohven would carry Jace if he was feeling weak from lack of food, but nooooo Jace can't possibly be okay with that. Repeat by 100x and you can see how it becomes tedious. I just didn't like his character much.
Third, and this might have some bearing on what I just said about Jace... this needed dual POV. I get that it would have been difficult considering the amnesia stuff, but something needed to be figured out. Sohven feels so one-dimensional because we don't see hardly anything of him. Jace and Sohven never really communicate well or to any reasonable length. Sohven could have been any character, easily replaceable. That's how undefined he feels.
Tangent to that, there are some serious plotholes regarding Jace and Sohven's communication. ⚠️ The rest of this paragraph is going to contain spoilers, so be warned. ⚠️ Okay so, Sohven understood Jace the whole time but Jace didn't know that. Sohven knew Jace didn't know that. So why didn't Sohven sit Jace down and get him to understand, via nonverbal communication, that Sohven can actually understand him? Or use written language to communicate. Because Sohven is clearly capable. Sure, it wouldn't have been perfect but there would have been tons of ways either or both of these men could communicate nonverbally. They had already done it with the word for "eat." It just doesn't make sense. And with the mutual understanding that Sohven can understand Jace, that should have led to Jace forming yes/no questions for Sohven. And thus they communicate, all is well.
Sure, I get it would have invalidated most of the book, but I just can't suspend belief that much. Two very intelligent men can't figure out how to nonverbally communicate, or by writing? That's some big eyeroll, sorry.
- - - - -
Overall, this is an okay read. The author has talent, clearly. But I think more attention should be put towards editing and/or beta reads so that glaring issues like the discussed plot holes, abrupt ending, and inadequate character development don't make it to publication.
These problems are mostly in the "new author" category of issues, though, all reasonably fixable stuff. Given the author's inherent skill visible in the underlying writing, I have faith that they'll do better with these kinds of issues in their next publication. I will definitely be on the lookout for future books.
Afterthought: Author, if you read this, perhaps consider writing in past tense. The present tense + first person was okay, but it got distracting on a couple occasions. I think that has more to do with the fact that present is pretty rare in the MM I read so I'm less used to it. Not a huge deal to me, frankly, but I know some care about it a lot more.
February 18, 2024
Sci fi survival! I was so excited for this and honestly was not disappointed. Gargoyle shaped alien with *wings* and fun appendages, survival on an alien world, and amnesia. So much fun.
My only complaint was that there were some plot holes and a few stray things that didn't really get explained. I chalk this up to either I wasn't paying attention well enough when reading, and/or first book by the author.
Overall I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more by the author.
My only complaint was that there were some plot holes and a few stray things that didn't really get explained. I chalk this up to either I wasn't paying attention well enough when reading, and/or first book by the author.
Overall I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more by the author.
November 24, 2023
This had so much potential but since they barely understand each other the whole time and there’s barely any dialogue… I can’t say it was as that great being stuck in a single characters head the whole time. Especially with him having amnesia…
There were SO many plot holes and barely anything happened that held my attention so yeah 3 stars it is. I see the potential though!!
There were SO many plot holes and barely anything happened that held my attention so yeah 3 stars it is. I see the potential though!!
February 13, 2024
3.5 stars.
This book had a lot of stuff that I always enjoy, alien romance, survival on an alien planet, communication barriers, and with the extra drama of an MC with amnesia. I liked seeing Jace's feelings develop and how he dealt with the situation he was in, and the descriptions of the alien flora and fauna was vividly creepy. I wish the ending had been longer because I feel like there was a lot more to explore about the characters and their relationship. It felt like we barely got to know Sohven, and it would have been nice to linger a bit more and see how they both dealt with the aftermath of what happened.
This book had a lot of stuff that I always enjoy, alien romance, survival on an alien planet, communication barriers, and with the extra drama of an MC with amnesia. I liked seeing Jace's feelings develop and how he dealt with the situation he was in, and the descriptions of the alien flora and fauna was vividly creepy. I wish the ending had been longer because I feel like there was a lot more to explore about the characters and their relationship. It felt like we barely got to know Sohven, and it would have been nice to linger a bit more and see how they both dealt with the aftermath of what happened.
July 24, 2024
When a book advertises itself as a linguistic-centered plot and slow burn... I expect a linguistic-centered plot and slow burn. I got NEITHER of those.
Characters are droll and flat. Author contradicts their own descriptions of alien species and action during writing. The plot was laughably easy to guess (I solved it in two chapters and then had to slog through this moron of a main character never figuring it out until the last chapter when it's shoved in his face). There were also MULTIPLE times I wanted to bash my head in over how utterly senseless the main character was acting for someone who was supposedly well trained - including putting back on clothing that was dirty, sweat stained, bloody, and mucus covered after bathing and multiple pages of complaints about feeling dirty.
Descriptions of the main character communicating were cringingly offensive and the whole book gave off colonizer fetishist vibes with how he interacted with the alien love interest. That's probably not what the author intended, but this book really needed a sensitivity reader because a lot of these phrasings and descriptions were not good.
I kept plodding though, hoping it would eventually get better, but nope. Waste of a read, and cannot recommend based on the description.
If all you want is instalust "scifi" romance with a humanoid alien who just happens to be tall, dark, winged, and bald, go for it. Anyone else? Skip.
Characters are droll and flat. Author contradicts their own descriptions of alien species and action during writing. The plot was laughably easy to guess (I solved it in two chapters and then had to slog through this moron of a main character never figuring it out until the last chapter when it's shoved in his face). There were also MULTIPLE times I wanted to bash my head in over how utterly senseless the main character was acting for someone who was supposedly well trained - including putting back on clothing that was dirty, sweat stained, bloody, and mucus covered after bathing and multiple pages of complaints about feeling dirty.
Descriptions of the main character communicating were cringingly offensive and the whole book gave off colonizer fetishist vibes with how he interacted with the alien love interest. That's probably not what the author intended, but this book really needed a sensitivity reader because a lot of these phrasings and descriptions were not good.
I kept plodding though, hoping it would eventually get better, but nope. Waste of a read, and cannot recommend based on the description.
If all you want is instalust "scifi" romance with a humanoid alien who just happens to be tall, dark, winged, and bald, go for it. Anyone else? Skip.
November 16, 2023
I enjoyed this a lot! I couldn't tell from the quality that it was a debut book at all.
I liked the prose and narrative voice of Jace quite a bit. Which was important considering the book was a bit lighter on dialogue at times due to the language barrier between Jace and Sohven.
The romance itself was sweet. You could feel the connection between the characters even with them not speaking the same language.
I really hope the author does more with Jace and Sohven. There's definitely room for more stories about them.
I liked the prose and narrative voice of Jace quite a bit. Which was important considering the book was a bit lighter on dialogue at times due to the language barrier between Jace and Sohven.
The romance itself was sweet. You could feel the connection between the characters even with them not speaking the same language.
I really hope the author does more with Jace and Sohven. There's definitely room for more stories about them.
Read
October 7, 2024I started this for the wingtimacy became hyped once I realised it’s a communication overcoming stranded on alien planet romance and am miffed now after the ending which kinda ruined it for me instead of wanting me to continue.
Spoiler ending:
The writing style of first person present made sense for an MC with amnesia but was really not easy to read.
NSFW infos
- Human (bottoms)
- Alien with wings and an appendage that can separate itself from his penis and produce a different kind of slick (tops)
- plugging
- wing cuddling
Spoiler ending:
The writing style of first person present made sense for an MC with amnesia but was really not easy to read.
NSFW infos
- Human (bottoms)
- Alien with wings and an appendage that can separate itself from his penis and produce a different kind of slick (tops)
- plugging
- wing cuddling
January 12, 2026
DNF, 22%. I can't do it. My anxiety brain can't handle a protagonist this clueless. I don't care if he's amnesiac, who doesn't realize there's danger everywhere after the first animal attack, come on.
June 9, 2024
HEAD ABOVE WATER was a beautiful and emotional romance and I'm looking forward to more books with Jace and Sohven. This is told completely from Jace's POV and his "voice" was so engaging to read. He was courageous, tough, and determined to prove he could take care of himself even in a dangerous jungle environment. Sohven was a big, winged alien with talons and horns and absolutely no clothes, lol. He was intimidating and monstrous to Jace at first but as they rely on each other to survive, Jace started to see there's more to Sohven. They don't speak the same language so communicating was difficult but that didn't stop Jace from starting to learn Sohven's facial expressions and sounds and developing feelings for him. The ending came as a wonderful surprise and I just wish we got a little more time seeing Jace with his memories restored.
February 9, 2024
it was reaally frustrating not understanding sohven.
plus the ending was kind of rushed?
plus the ending was kind of rushed?
August 23, 2024
4.25 stars
What a cool premise! An amnesia romance, an alien romance, and a survival in the jungle story rolled up into one. I really liked the characters and concept. I think the subplot of “how do survive the jungle” could’ve had more direction but I still loved it.
Spice: 3/5
Angst: 2-3/5
What a cool premise! An amnesia romance, an alien romance, and a survival in the jungle story rolled up into one. I really liked the characters and concept. I think the subplot of “how do survive the jungle” could’ve had more direction but I still loved it.
Spice: 3/5
Angst: 2-3/5
October 3, 2024
October BOTM. This felt strangely like an extremely long prologue, where little was learned until literally 95%. They were sweet together, and the crumbs of world building we did get were really neat. I think I will check out the next book in the series, but this was a frustrating read overall.
November 10, 2023
Probably 2.5☆ rounded up. This was... not very engaging, tbh. It could have been a fun short story IMHO, but dragging it out to this length where nothing basically happens was almost DNF-worthy. I ended up skimming the bulk of it once I realized that there wasn't much story to be had. Sigh. Moving on...
June 10, 2024
4.5 stars. This is great. A fresh take on alien romance. The fact that the writing is so engaging is key to the success of this story. In less skilled hands it could have been boring, bland, plodding, etc. But I was legitimately on the edge of my seat the whole time. Can't wait to start the sequel.
November 14, 2024
Read November 2024
2.5 stars = pretty good
🚀 MM Sci-Fi Romance 👽
Single POV
Time Frame: Less than a week.
This debut novel shows the author does have writing talent. The story flowed well, was easy to read, and the action scenes were exciting—though I wanted more! Both MCs were likable, but I definitely preferred one over the other. Unfortunately, a few things in the second half didn’t sit well with me, which made me skim to finish. Overall, it was a decent read with some room for improvement.
A key part of the story is discovering how the MCs know each other, revealed at the end. Unfortunately, a few reviewers spoiled this twist, reinforcing the need to avoid reading reviews beforehand.
The MCs:
Jace (human) and
Sohven (a gray-ish alien with horns and large wings).
Sohven is the most vividly described, while Jace and the setting have minimal details, making it challenging to fully envision the story.
The story begins with Jace awakening in a wrecked ship, nursing injuries—including a head injury—and struggling to remember who he is and why he's there. He's spurred into action when he hears a strange, otherworldly sound, and realizes a creature is pursuing him. In a panic, he flees the ship and races across an unfamiliar planet. When he turns to see a terrifying, demon-like creature straight out of a nightmare, his fear drives him to run for his life. However, he soon crashes into a thick tree branch and blacks out.
Jace, stubborn and independent, often runs into trouble. Sohven is my favorite character. He stands out with his caring and protective nature, frequently helping or rescuing Jace. I just wish Jace would've been more appreciative (and willing to submit).
A major obstacle between them is their inability to communicate, leading to misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and Jace's determination to find his own way off the planet. While Sohven understands Jace, the reverse isn’t true. Sohven, however, knows that and does his best to keep Jace from taking unnecessary risks. It was a relief when Jace finally got his memories back.
😬 I'm not a fan of long inner monologues, so it was difficult to read a book that is told primarily through Jace's thoughts. Sohven was the only other character for over 90% of it.
After Jace blacks out three times from his injuries and is saved a few times from dangerous animals, he recovers enough for the MCs' sexual attraction to build. It's clear they desire each other. However, when the sexy times began around 60%, I wasn't feeling it. The planet's hot, humid climate, combined with the fact that the MCs only rinsed off in a river twice, made it hard to believe they did anything sexual—especially since Jace kept wearing his filthy, torn coveralls. 🫤
🤢 The Nasty Coveralls:
▪️ There are stains on the fabric―a dark, blackish brown that I know instinctively is dried blood.
▪️ ...my sweat soaked coveralls have grown clammy.
▪️ ...seeing the combination of congealed blood and yellowish, clear fluid that's crystallized between my skin and my coveralls has me feeling dizzy...
🫣 I definitely don't want to read about BJ's, licking anywhere or anal sex.
Another thing I noticed is that the MCs never go to the bathroom—not once. This absence feels odd, especially since the story happens in real time. It detracted from the realism of the characters.
The ending wrapped up nicely:
What the MCs do in Space:
I believe Sohven was genuinely in love with Jace, as evidenced by his actions. In contrast, I feel that Jace's feelings for Sohven were primarily rooted in attraction. His willingness to go back to the ship alone if necessary, made his later declaration of love less convincing.
I will be attempting book 2, but if Sohven is not the same caring & protective guy (some reviewers say he's not), then I won't be finishing it.
🚫 This is So Wrong During Sex:
🔻 This right here—behind me, above me, around me—is a true taste of the divine.
🔻 He’s mystery and godhead, and when my lips wrap around his head and I swallow his slick, I’m anointed.
🔻 This is sacred space we’re preparing to enter...
🔻 Our harsh breathing combines with the slap of skin on skin and the unholy music of him sliding home through his own slick.
🍆 Sohven's Unusual Appendage:
Something separates from his dick, and it seems to have a mind of its own. This thinner, seeking appendage is dripping a viscous, slippery fluid, and the tip slides and shimmies over my skin as if it’s searching—for some place to burrow.
2.5 stars = pretty good
🚀 MM Sci-Fi Romance 👽
Single POV
Time Frame: Less than a week.
This debut novel shows the author does have writing talent. The story flowed well, was easy to read, and the action scenes were exciting—though I wanted more! Both MCs were likable, but I definitely preferred one over the other. Unfortunately, a few things in the second half didn’t sit well with me, which made me skim to finish. Overall, it was a decent read with some room for improvement.
A key part of the story is discovering how the MCs know each other, revealed at the end. Unfortunately, a few reviewers spoiled this twist, reinforcing the need to avoid reading reviews beforehand.
The MCs:
Jace (human) and
Sohven (a gray-ish alien with horns and large wings).
Sohven is the most vividly described, while Jace and the setting have minimal details, making it challenging to fully envision the story.
The story begins with Jace awakening in a wrecked ship, nursing injuries—including a head injury—and struggling to remember who he is and why he's there. He's spurred into action when he hears a strange, otherworldly sound, and realizes a creature is pursuing him. In a panic, he flees the ship and races across an unfamiliar planet. When he turns to see a terrifying, demon-like creature straight out of a nightmare, his fear drives him to run for his life. However, he soon crashes into a thick tree branch and blacks out.
Jace, stubborn and independent, often runs into trouble. Sohven is my favorite character. He stands out with his caring and protective nature, frequently helping or rescuing Jace. I just wish Jace would've been more appreciative (and willing to submit).
A major obstacle between them is their inability to communicate, leading to misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and Jace's determination to find his own way off the planet. While Sohven understands Jace, the reverse isn’t true. Sohven, however, knows that and does his best to keep Jace from taking unnecessary risks. It was a relief when Jace finally got his memories back.
😬 I'm not a fan of long inner monologues, so it was difficult to read a book that is told primarily through Jace's thoughts. Sohven was the only other character for over 90% of it.
After Jace blacks out three times from his injuries and is saved a few times from dangerous animals, he recovers enough for the MCs' sexual attraction to build. It's clear they desire each other. However, when the sexy times began around 60%, I wasn't feeling it. The planet's hot, humid climate, combined with the fact that the MCs only rinsed off in a river twice, made it hard to believe they did anything sexual—especially since Jace kept wearing his filthy, torn coveralls. 🫤
🤢 The Nasty Coveralls:
▪️ There are stains on the fabric―a dark, blackish brown that I know instinctively is dried blood.
▪️ ...my sweat soaked coveralls have grown clammy.
▪️ ...seeing the combination of congealed blood and yellowish, clear fluid that's crystallized between my skin and my coveralls has me feeling dizzy...
🫣 I definitely don't want to read about BJ's, licking anywhere or anal sex.
Another thing I noticed is that the MCs never go to the bathroom—not once. This absence feels odd, especially since the story happens in real time. It detracted from the realism of the characters.
The ending wrapped up nicely:
What the MCs do in Space:
I believe Sohven was genuinely in love with Jace, as evidenced by his actions. In contrast, I feel that Jace's feelings for Sohven were primarily rooted in attraction. His willingness to go back to the ship alone if necessary, made his later declaration of love less convincing.
I will be attempting book 2, but if Sohven is not the same caring & protective guy (some reviewers say he's not), then I won't be finishing it.
🚫 This is So Wrong During Sex:
🔻 This right here—behind me, above me, around me—is a true taste of the divine.
🔻 He’s mystery and godhead, and when my lips wrap around his head and I swallow his slick, I’m anointed.
🔻 This is sacred space we’re preparing to enter...
🔻 Our harsh breathing combines with the slap of skin on skin and the unholy music of him sliding home through his own slick.
🍆 Sohven's Unusual Appendage:
Something separates from his dick, and it seems to have a mind of its own. This thinner, seeking appendage is dripping a viscous, slippery fluid, and the tip slides and shimmies over my skin as if it’s searching—for some place to burrow.
February 14, 2024
one line summary
Man wakes up in a crashed ship on an alien planet with amnesia and an alien with a giant dick that he has the hots for, spends ~200 pages musing about his life and his thirst for the alien’s humongous rod, only to find out that all his struggles were because he didn’t bother to try and pay attention to what the giant alien with the ginormous staff of love was trying to tell him.
thoughts
Making first person POV non-boring is difficult. It’s even more difficult when the story plot is “I am lost and I don’t know where I am or how I got here, and all I have is this hot alien who has the hots for me.” And also from the beginning the author never intended for this to be any kind of space adventure: it’s some kind of weird amalgamation of the slice-of-life and survival genres.
“Jace” spends a majority of the book musing about how stinky he is, how much he would like a bath, what his “role” was on the crashed ship, how hot the alien with him is, how unsuited he is to the environment, how he would love to bury his face in the alien’s thighs … all very relevant things, I guess, but things that just dragged out the whole story. A whole fat lot of not much happened, and I just felt robbed of my time.
In the end this book became a giant thinkpiece about how having a giant dong up his ass is, *valley girl voice* like, more than just the act, it’s, like, sacred and beautiful.
Sure, man … but I the reader would have had more fun if you just had fun sexy times instead of making every touch, every sex act, every meaningful look, some kind of ode to the beauty of the universe or whatever.
Seriously, look at this:
This is the kind of BS I had to deal with throughout the whole book with Mr I Like Big Knobs And I Cannot Lie.
Funnily, at 89%, the book just refused to load in the browser reader, which I felt was Kindle’s way of warning me that nothing but disappointment lay ahead. But I was 89% in, bro, and I am nothing if not dogged and grim in my pursuit. I would finish this book. It is now another notch in my tablet of penance for 2024.
let me just go ahead and spoil you
Man wakes up in a crashed ship on an alien planet with amnesia and an alien with a giant dick that he has the hots for, spends ~200 pages musing about his life and his thirst for the alien’s humongous rod, only to find out that all his struggles were because he didn’t bother to try and pay attention to what the giant alien with the ginormous staff of love was trying to tell him.
thoughts
Making first person POV non-boring is difficult. It’s even more difficult when the story plot is “I am lost and I don’t know where I am or how I got here, and all I have is this hot alien who has the hots for me.” And also from the beginning the author never intended for this to be any kind of space adventure: it’s some kind of weird amalgamation of the slice-of-life and survival genres.
“Jace” spends a majority of the book musing about how stinky he is, how much he would like a bath, what his “role” was on the crashed ship, how hot the alien with him is, how unsuited he is to the environment, how he would love to bury his face in the alien’s thighs … all very relevant things, I guess, but things that just dragged out the whole story. A whole fat lot of not much happened, and I just felt robbed of my time.
In the end this book became a giant thinkpiece about how having a giant dong up his ass is, *valley girl voice* like, more than just the act, it’s, like, sacred and beautiful.
Sure, man … but I the reader would have had more fun if you just had fun sexy times instead of making every touch, every sex act, every meaningful look, some kind of ode to the beauty of the universe or whatever.
Seriously, look at this:
It’s just Sohven and I now, and I know this isn’t only about a hard dick in a warm hole. This is a sacred space we’re preparing to enter, and neither of us will leave it unscathed when he pulls back his wings and lets in the light after it’s all over.
This is the kind of BS I had to deal with throughout the whole book with Mr I Like Big Knobs And I Cannot Lie.
Funnily, at 89%, the book just refused to load in the browser reader, which I felt was Kindle’s way of warning me that nothing but disappointment lay ahead. But I was 89% in, bro, and I am nothing if not dogged and grim in my pursuit. I would finish this book. It is now another notch in my tablet of penance for 2024.
let me just go ahead and spoil you
August 17, 2023
Jace and Sohven's Story . . .
Jace Cesari survives a crash on a planet. When he regains consciousness, cold and shivering and in pain, he discovers he has lost his memories. All he hears is an annoying beeping that he can’t seem to block out. He hears something behind him but he is in no condition to run from whatever it is, but fear forces him to his feet and he stumbles away. Whatever is behind him chases after him. He finds a door with a small porthole, but all he sees is darkness. Seeing no stars, he is probably not in space. But the growl he hears behind him urges him to escape. Forcing the door open, he jumps. Something cuts his cheek and he feels a jab in his back, but he needs to run. It is so dark that he can see nothing, but the humidity feels like he is in a jungle. He is having trouble breathing, getting scratched up with every step he takes, and when he trips and falls, it is a relief to know it’s finally over for him. And he loses consciousness.
Waking up, still struggling to breathe, Jace is tied to a tree and can now see the creature who chased him. He can’t understand the words, but the tone suggests he is trying to calm Jace. He said “Jhevase”, a word he had said back in the ship, as his clawed fingers lightly touch Jace’s cheek. He wakes and is still tied to the tree but is alone, helpless. He needs to get to his crashed ship and check for survivors! He lets out a cry and the alien comes crashing through the trees, searching everywhere as if looking for a threat. Jace told him there was nothing there, that he had hurt himself with the rope. To his surprise, the creature leans over him and checks the rope. He makes sounds like a whale, vibrations and deep groans. Left alone again, a new horror begins as something crawls down the tree toward him. He finds a small branch and kicks at the creature who now has the branch in its mouth and is not happy. Once more, a bellow and roar from the alien sounds as he shouts “Jhevase” and runs into the clearing, flings the creature away, and cuts the cord from Jace’s wrist. As they walk toward the ship, the nasty creature thing leaps from the tree as the alien wraps a wing around Jace to protect him and shoots the creature out of the air with a weapon. Jace’s alien, Sohven, seems determined to help him survive. They cannot communicate other than using hand gestures and drawing pictures in the dirt. But they start to realize they need each other. Depending on each other builds a strong relationship. Is it strong enough to keep them together?
The descriptions provided by the author will make the reader feel like a participant in this story. The detail is precise to give us a mental picture of where Jace is, the sounds, the smells, everything needed to paint a vivid mental picture of the scenes. I really enjoyed the storyline and seeing how the two of them build trust together. Grab your copy and see what their story becomes. Will Jace still want to return home? Or will he have found a new home right where he is?
Jace Cesari survives a crash on a planet. When he regains consciousness, cold and shivering and in pain, he discovers he has lost his memories. All he hears is an annoying beeping that he can’t seem to block out. He hears something behind him but he is in no condition to run from whatever it is, but fear forces him to his feet and he stumbles away. Whatever is behind him chases after him. He finds a door with a small porthole, but all he sees is darkness. Seeing no stars, he is probably not in space. But the growl he hears behind him urges him to escape. Forcing the door open, he jumps. Something cuts his cheek and he feels a jab in his back, but he needs to run. It is so dark that he can see nothing, but the humidity feels like he is in a jungle. He is having trouble breathing, getting scratched up with every step he takes, and when he trips and falls, it is a relief to know it’s finally over for him. And he loses consciousness.
Waking up, still struggling to breathe, Jace is tied to a tree and can now see the creature who chased him. He can’t understand the words, but the tone suggests he is trying to calm Jace. He said “Jhevase”, a word he had said back in the ship, as his clawed fingers lightly touch Jace’s cheek. He wakes and is still tied to the tree but is alone, helpless. He needs to get to his crashed ship and check for survivors! He lets out a cry and the alien comes crashing through the trees, searching everywhere as if looking for a threat. Jace told him there was nothing there, that he had hurt himself with the rope. To his surprise, the creature leans over him and checks the rope. He makes sounds like a whale, vibrations and deep groans. Left alone again, a new horror begins as something crawls down the tree toward him. He finds a small branch and kicks at the creature who now has the branch in its mouth and is not happy. Once more, a bellow and roar from the alien sounds as he shouts “Jhevase” and runs into the clearing, flings the creature away, and cuts the cord from Jace’s wrist. As they walk toward the ship, the nasty creature thing leaps from the tree as the alien wraps a wing around Jace to protect him and shoots the creature out of the air with a weapon. Jace’s alien, Sohven, seems determined to help him survive. They cannot communicate other than using hand gestures and drawing pictures in the dirt. But they start to realize they need each other. Depending on each other builds a strong relationship. Is it strong enough to keep them together?
The descriptions provided by the author will make the reader feel like a participant in this story. The detail is precise to give us a mental picture of where Jace is, the sounds, the smells, everything needed to paint a vivid mental picture of the scenes. I really enjoyed the storyline and seeing how the two of them build trust together. Grab your copy and see what their story becomes. Will Jace still want to return home? Or will he have found a new home right where he is?
January 10, 2025
excellent world building and characters
Rating: 4.5🌈
A science fiction romance novel that’s got the best plot twist and elements that keeps it exciting and filled with suspenseful moments, Head Above Water is the first novel I read by this author and I’m definitely excited about the already published sequel.
Evermore’s world building is excellent, the way in which the story plot, the characters and the mystery is all set from the beginning is exciting and extremely well executed.
Told from one man’s point of view, a man who has a head injury that’s caused amnesia, a crashed spaceship, and a alien there with him, one who he has no idea whether that being is friendly or not. From that planet or not.
From this frightening moment it’s a matter of following him through that world, his thoughts and an evolving relationship with the being he’s paired up with as they tackle this world together.
While the story twist isn’t exactly unexpected, it’s still terrific. And the epilogue does a great turn in taking the reader and tale backwards to how it all started.
Loved this. Recommending it and heading to the sequel.
The Little Ships (2 books):
Head Above Water #1
Rock and a Hard Place #2
Rating: 4.5🌈
A science fiction romance novel that’s got the best plot twist and elements that keeps it exciting and filled with suspenseful moments, Head Above Water is the first novel I read by this author and I’m definitely excited about the already published sequel.
Evermore’s world building is excellent, the way in which the story plot, the characters and the mystery is all set from the beginning is exciting and extremely well executed.
Told from one man’s point of view, a man who has a head injury that’s caused amnesia, a crashed spaceship, and a alien there with him, one who he has no idea whether that being is friendly or not. From that planet or not.
From this frightening moment it’s a matter of following him through that world, his thoughts and an evolving relationship with the being he’s paired up with as they tackle this world together.
While the story twist isn’t exactly unexpected, it’s still terrific. And the epilogue does a great turn in taking the reader and tale backwards to how it all started.
Loved this. Recommending it and heading to the sequel.
The Little Ships (2 books):
Head Above Water #1
Rock and a Hard Place #2
August 26, 2023
'I don’t need to worry. I never need to. He’s got me. He’s always got me.'
I absolutely loved this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. Jace wakes up from a head injury in a crashed ship with no memory of who he is or where he is. When a demonic looking alien finds him, he runs, but is soon caught. I was completely hooked to this story. It was mysterious and you had no idea what could happen or what dangers are out there. Jace was trying to remember himself, and slowly getting to know Sohven- his new companion. I usually prefer my books to be dual point-of-view, but this was entirely in Jace's POV and that was perfect and allowed me, as the reader, to learn and experience everything with him. As curious as I was to see through Sohven's eyes, I'm glad I couldn't. Jace couldn't understand anything Sohven said, but I loved the way their relationship built and they bonded and communicated. That ending was unexpected and perfect. This is the first book I've read by this author- and I think might be their debut novel. If so, a fantastic start! I hope to see more of these characters, and I will definitely be reading more from J. Evermore in the future. 5 stars.
I absolutely loved this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. Jace wakes up from a head injury in a crashed ship with no memory of who he is or where he is. When a demonic looking alien finds him, he runs, but is soon caught. I was completely hooked to this story. It was mysterious and you had no idea what could happen or what dangers are out there. Jace was trying to remember himself, and slowly getting to know Sohven- his new companion. I usually prefer my books to be dual point-of-view, but this was entirely in Jace's POV and that was perfect and allowed me, as the reader, to learn and experience everything with him. As curious as I was to see through Sohven's eyes, I'm glad I couldn't. Jace couldn't understand anything Sohven said, but I loved the way their relationship built and they bonded and communicated. That ending was unexpected and perfect. This is the first book I've read by this author- and I think might be their debut novel. If so, a fantastic start! I hope to see more of these characters, and I will definitely be reading more from J. Evermore in the future. 5 stars.
May 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Head Above Water completely captivated me with its lush alien world, slow-burn romance, and the deep emotional bond between Jace and Sohven. There’s something so irresistible about two characters who can’t even speak the same language yet manage to build a connection through instinct, trust, and sheer determination. The amnesia element added an intriguing layer, making Jace’s journey not just about survival, but about rediscovering who he is—and who he wants to be.
Sohven was everything I adore in an alien love interest. He’s powerful, intimidating, and completely devoted to Jace’s safety from the very beginning. The way he protected Jace, even before they could communicate properly, melted my heart. And Jace? His resilience, humor, and sheer will to keep going despite the odds made him an easy character to root for. Their slow-burn attraction was intense, and when things finally heated up? Whew. The alien anatomy definitely had a little Lily Mayne influence, and I was not complaining.
The jungle setting was vividly described, making every moment feel immersive—dangerous creatures lurking in the shadows, the humid air pressing down, the uncertainty of whether rescue would ever come. I felt like I was right there with them, experiencing their fears, victories, and growing connection firsthand. Can't wait to read the second book!
Head Above Water completely captivated me with its lush alien world, slow-burn romance, and the deep emotional bond between Jace and Sohven. There’s something so irresistible about two characters who can’t even speak the same language yet manage to build a connection through instinct, trust, and sheer determination. The amnesia element added an intriguing layer, making Jace’s journey not just about survival, but about rediscovering who he is—and who he wants to be.
Sohven was everything I adore in an alien love interest. He’s powerful, intimidating, and completely devoted to Jace’s safety from the very beginning. The way he protected Jace, even before they could communicate properly, melted my heart. And Jace? His resilience, humor, and sheer will to keep going despite the odds made him an easy character to root for. Their slow-burn attraction was intense, and when things finally heated up? Whew. The alien anatomy definitely had a little Lily Mayne influence, and I was not complaining.
The jungle setting was vividly described, making every moment feel immersive—dangerous creatures lurking in the shadows, the humid air pressing down, the uncertainty of whether rescue would ever come. I felt like I was right there with them, experiencing their fears, victories, and growing connection firsthand. Can't wait to read the second book!
September 13, 2023
A wonderful debut novel. A crashed spaceship, a lone passenger with amnesia, and a towering winged protective alien made for a pretty great romance.
I liked Jace and Sohven together. They made a great couple. Sohven was intelligent and calm but protective when he needed to be. And as lost as he was, Jace was pretty brave in the face of things. And even though communication was difficult, they still made it work. The twist was pretty easy to figure out, but it didn't take away from the story. It just made me long for Jace to remember. I enjoyed the world-building, too. This story lets your imagination run wild, and I liked that.
My only critique would be the epilogue. It read more like a flashback. It would've been nice to see a bit more of Sohven and Jace in their present timeline.
Overall, this was a fast-paced, well-conceived story with fun and exciting characters. I cannot wait to see what other stories this author comes up with! 5 stars.
I liked Jace and Sohven together. They made a great couple. Sohven was intelligent and calm but protective when he needed to be. And as lost as he was, Jace was pretty brave in the face of things. And even though communication was difficult, they still made it work. The twist was pretty easy to figure out, but it didn't take away from the story. It just made me long for Jace to remember. I enjoyed the world-building, too. This story lets your imagination run wild, and I liked that.
My only critique would be the epilogue. It read more like a flashback. It would've been nice to see a bit more of Sohven and Jace in their present timeline.
Overall, this was a fast-paced, well-conceived story with fun and exciting characters. I cannot wait to see what other stories this author comes up with! 5 stars.
August 17, 2023
Considering the genre and premise, this was relatively low angst and rather sweet and fluffy. I mean, the two MCs exploring a seemingly hostile jungle on an alien planet, you would expect near-death situation or at least some peril. And there are hints of it, but our heroes come to no real harm. There's drinkable water and available food, so the plot focuses mainly on the two characters interacting. Which is to be expected, if you remember this is actually a romance.
I'm happy to say there was no big mandatory drama at 75%, so that's always a bonus when a romance book steers from the predictable formula.
BTW, if you want a taste of the real thing, read the classic "Deathworld 1" by Harry Harrison.
I'm happy to say there was no big mandatory drama at 75%, so that's always a bonus when a romance book steers from the predictable formula.
BTW, if you want a taste of the real thing, read the classic "Deathworld 1" by Harry Harrison.
October 23, 2023
fantastic debut
First, when I say it’s a fantastic debut, I mean it. Lots of new authors have debut books that needed help before being released, this one must’ve gotten it. The story is interesting and while it does deal with the possible dangers of being on a strange planet in a way that’s believable, it wasn’t pure angst going from one catastrophe to another with no down time.
My only critique is that if you’re expecting a romance, this isn’t one. It’s a survival story with a sort of romantic subplot. It’s still a good story and the steamy scenes were good, but not what I would consider a romance.
Do I recommend? Yeah, especially if you want something like a palate cleanser after reading something dark or angsty. This book should be on your tbr.
First, when I say it’s a fantastic debut, I mean it. Lots of new authors have debut books that needed help before being released, this one must’ve gotten it. The story is interesting and while it does deal with the possible dangers of being on a strange planet in a way that’s believable, it wasn’t pure angst going from one catastrophe to another with no down time.
My only critique is that if you’re expecting a romance, this isn’t one. It’s a survival story with a sort of romantic subplot. It’s still a good story and the steamy scenes were good, but not what I would consider a romance.
Do I recommend? Yeah, especially if you want something like a palate cleanser after reading something dark or angsty. This book should be on your tbr.
January 5, 2024
I liked the premise: Jace wakes up injured and with no memories, in a ship crashed on an alien planet, with an alien who seems to know him, but they can't communicate. The problem though was that although there were flashbacks as some of his memories tried to return, those flashbacks didn't add enough to the story. Then we get to the end and his memory is returned all at once and we're suddenly meeting all these people that we have no background for as readers so it's just like, 'and here's a bunch of new characters, and here's what happened, the end!'. It just felt like I never actually got any real development for the characters, who they actually were, including the love interest, Sohen, with Jace's memories suddenly being all restored at the end like that.
April 10, 2024
I almost didn’t read this because of some negative reviews but I’m glad I did! Instead of a straight-up romance, this is a story of Jace’s struggle to survive and rediscover himself amidst fractured memories, all while trying to decide how much he can rely upon Sohven’s constant presence.
The difficulty in communication with an uncertain ally, Jace’s lost identity, and the remote location leave him feeling extremely isolated, but he is determined to survive and rescue himself regardless. Except, as he grows closer to Sohven, he starts to worry that rescue might mean losing the only person he now knows—one he’s come to care about.
I very much hope this author gives us further stories of these characters!
The difficulty in communication with an uncertain ally, Jace’s lost identity, and the remote location leave him feeling extremely isolated, but he is determined to survive and rescue himself regardless. Except, as he grows closer to Sohven, he starts to worry that rescue might mean losing the only person he now knows—one he’s come to care about.
I very much hope this author gives us further stories of these characters!
August 19, 2023
4 stars
What a solid debut novel. It can be really hard to develop a romantic relationship between two people (or aliens or whatever) who can’t even verbally communicate this author manages just fine. We only get the POV of the human MC, and I would have loved an alternate POV, but I understand why the author kept it this way. In any case this book was interesting, fast paced, and thanks to the language barrier it keeps you guessing what will happen next. I enjoyed every minute and I am hoping that there will be more books in this universe. I would not be adverse to a direct sequel with the same MCs.
What a solid debut novel. It can be really hard to develop a romantic relationship between two people (or aliens or whatever) who can’t even verbally communicate this author manages just fine. We only get the POV of the human MC, and I would have loved an alternate POV, but I understand why the author kept it this way. In any case this book was interesting, fast paced, and thanks to the language barrier it keeps you guessing what will happen next. I enjoyed every minute and I am hoping that there will be more books in this universe. I would not be adverse to a direct sequel with the same MCs.
October 8, 2023
Compelling story with an underwhelming ending
I was so invested in this story, devoured it in a day, was super immersed… and then it just ended with only a couple pages to wrap everything up. So many questions or plot points were left unanswered, and the resolution was so short it was utterly unsatisfying. I expected so much more from the ending considering how the rest of the book was well written, but I was literally disappointed that everything just cut off. Yes it’s a happy ending, but boy was it rushed. I expected more world building and more questions to be answered once the pair were safe, but so much was left dangling. 🥲
I was so invested in this story, devoured it in a day, was super immersed… and then it just ended with only a couple pages to wrap everything up. So many questions or plot points were left unanswered, and the resolution was so short it was utterly unsatisfying. I expected so much more from the ending considering how the rest of the book was well written, but I was literally disappointed that everything just cut off. Yes it’s a happy ending, but boy was it rushed. I expected more world building and more questions to be answered once the pair were safe, but so much was left dangling. 🥲
July 5, 2024
Holy Sexy Sentient...Batman!
I seriously did not know what I was in for when I picked this book!😍 I love it! I mean, yeah... blew me away! Hit the ground running. Literally. There's a stunning alien/ human relationship. The pacing grabs you from the get go and does not let go. Captivating main character, our human,Jace, pulls you into his orbit and there is no getting away. Ever!. While Sohven, alien hunk😘,is super sexy and mysterious in a captivating tale of great chemistry and romance. This story will keep wondering what the h**l is going on. Then it'll spin on your axis! Love it...😎😍😍
I seriously did not know what I was in for when I picked this book!😍 I love it! I mean, yeah... blew me away! Hit the ground running. Literally. There's a stunning alien/ human relationship. The pacing grabs you from the get go and does not let go. Captivating main character, our human,Jace, pulls you into his orbit and there is no getting away. Ever!. While Sohven, alien hunk😘,is super sexy and mysterious in a captivating tale of great chemistry and romance. This story will keep wondering what the h**l is going on. Then it'll spin on your axis! Love it...😎😍😍
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