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Brides of the Kylorr #1
Desire in His Blood
A monster wants her as his bride...and he will stop at nothing to claim her.
Gemma Hara is drowning under the weight of her father’s debts. Working herself to the bone, she knows that if she doesn’t pay them off in time, the sadistic creditors will take everything: their home, their respected name, and, worst of all, her two beautiful sisters.
To save her family, Gemma agrees to do something reckless: marry a wealthy and mysterious stranger, who offers her a wicked bargain she can’t afford to refuse.
However, his bargain comes with one terrifying catch. Because her husband-to-be is a Kylorr.
One of the most fearsome alien races in the Four Quadrants, the Kylorr are beastly monsters, all muscle and menace, with powerful wings, depraved cravings, and berserker-like rages. The worst part?
They survive on blood.
Cold and cruel, Azur of House Kaalium, the High Lord of Laras, demands Gemma as his blood bride. To feed from her. To use her body in whatever way he wishes. For paying off her family’s debts, he expects her complete submission.
What neither of them predicts is how his bite doesn’t bring pain—it fills Gemma with more exquisite pleasure than she’s ever known. And as she finds her footing on a strange new planet, the one thing Gemma thought she’d never surrender might be at risk after all.
Her heart.
Too bad her new husband can’t seem to decide if he wants to break it...or keep it forever.
Gemma Hara is drowning under the weight of her father’s debts. Working herself to the bone, she knows that if she doesn’t pay them off in time, the sadistic creditors will take everything: their home, their respected name, and, worst of all, her two beautiful sisters.
To save her family, Gemma agrees to do something reckless: marry a wealthy and mysterious stranger, who offers her a wicked bargain she can’t afford to refuse.
However, his bargain comes with one terrifying catch. Because her husband-to-be is a Kylorr.
One of the most fearsome alien races in the Four Quadrants, the Kylorr are beastly monsters, all muscle and menace, with powerful wings, depraved cravings, and berserker-like rages. The worst part?
They survive on blood.
Cold and cruel, Azur of House Kaalium, the High Lord of Laras, demands Gemma as his blood bride. To feed from her. To use her body in whatever way he wishes. For paying off her family’s debts, he expects her complete submission.
What neither of them predicts is how his bite doesn’t bring pain—it fills Gemma with more exquisite pleasure than she’s ever known. And as she finds her footing on a strange new planet, the one thing Gemma thought she’d never surrender might be at risk after all.
Her heart.
Too bad her new husband can’t seem to decide if he wants to break it...or keep it forever.
12 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 1, 2022
2481 people are currently reading
11606 people want to read
About the author
Zoey Draven
35 books3,905 followersZoey Draven has been writing stories for as long as she can remember. Her love affair with the romance genre started with her grandmother's old Harlequin paperbacks and has continued ever since. As a Top 100 Amazon bestselling author, now she gets to write the happily-ever-afters—with a cosmic, otherworldly twist, of course!
When she's not writing, she's probably drinking one too many cups of coffee, hiking in the redwoods, or spending time with her family.
Sign-up for Zoey Draven's newsletter for new release announcements and bonus content: http://bit.ly/2lkn8M4
When she's not writing, she's probably drinking one too many cups of coffee, hiking in the redwoods, or spending time with her family.
Sign-up for Zoey Draven's newsletter for new release announcements and bonus content: http://bit.ly/2lkn8M4
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,327 reviews
January 7, 2023
space vampire with wings is the type of men i go for in 2023
July 30, 2025
5 ⭐️ The best book I’ve read this year! Y’all are sleeping on this series!!!!!!
It was inconvenient, I decided, to be attracted to my husband. Unfortunately, I was. Terribly.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ sci-fi / fantasy romance
✨ he’s a dominating vampire-like alien lord
✨ she’s the eldest human daughter of his enemy
✨ arranged marriage
✨ enemies to lovers
✨ hate to love
✨ slow burn
✨ insane sexual tension
✨ 4/5 🌶️ (primal, biting, knotting)
✨ his bite makes them both 💦
✨ size difference
✨ fated mates
✨ high angst
✨ “where is my wife?!”
✨ secrets and hidden truths
✨ incredible world building
✨ dual POV
✨ HEA
✨ standalone
Summary:
Gemma lives with her father and two younger sisters, and they are drowning in debt. To save her family, she agrees to marry a wealthy and mysterious stranger. But her husband-to-be is a Kylorr, one of the most brutal and feared races in the Four Quadrants who survive off blood.
Cold and cruel, Azur demands Gemma's submission and plans to make her life a living hell. But neither of them could predict how his bite doesn't bring pain but absolute pleasure to them both.
My Thoughts:
When I tell you I am OBSESSED, I mean it! I love sci-fi / fantasy romance, and this book is easily one of my absolute favorites within the genre and of all time! Once I started, I could not put it down!
It is TRUE enemies-to-lovers where there are actual feelings of hatred. But once Azur and Gemma realize his bite will bring them absolute pleasure, it's really a toss up between if they want to fight or f*ck each other. The tension between them is palpable, especially when Gemma is so defiant (to Azur's annoyance and appreciation). The banter between these two had me kicking my feet and screaming. Their chemistry is off the charts and the spice was HOT! Seriously, these scenes had my heart pounding and thighs clenching. They were that good!
Bonus, the writing was great and world-building was incredibly well done. This is a complicated universe, but I never once felt confused or overwhelmed by the information!
Update: The audiobook is just as good! I love that it’s a dual narration! The narrators do a fantastic job! 10/10 recommend!
Favorite Quotes:
"I will do whatever I please with my wife . . . She is mine now."
_______
Did she realize that her neck began to flush red whenever she saw me? Blood rushing. Preparing. Like her body knew who it belonged to and it was doing whatever it could to please its master.
_______
Though her mere presence put me on edge, I wanted her close. I wanted her near.
_______
"But if you think that you are the worst thing I've endured, then you would be wrong. So do your worst, husband. Feed from me. Make me fear you. Break me. But I will always be my own."
_______
"Be careful what you offer me, wife." His teeth flashed and he bent low. His breath spread over my delicate and sensitive inner wrist as he said, "Because I will take it. When it comes to you, I will take whatever I want."
_______
"You came looking for me because you needed your relief, didn't you? You were craving my bite, my fangs because now you know I'm the only one who can make you feel this."
_______
"You beg so well, wife," he growled, lifting his head, meeting my eyes. "Beg me more."
_______
"Then it's a good thin your husband is a berserker," he answered me. "Because I would tear anyone in two if they came for you."
_______
"You think I don't want to be without your blood, wife? I don't want to be without you."
_______
"We can begin again so that you will always know I want to marry you because. . . because you are my heart, Gemma. My heart's blood. My laraya. Not for any other reason.
_______
It was inconvenient, I decided, to be attracted to my husband. Unfortunately, I was. Terribly.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ sci-fi / fantasy romance
✨ he’s a dominating vampire-like alien lord
✨ she’s the eldest human daughter of his enemy
✨ arranged marriage
✨ enemies to lovers
✨ hate to love
✨ slow burn
✨ insane sexual tension
✨ 4/5 🌶️ (primal, biting, knotting)
✨ his bite makes them both 💦
✨ size difference
✨ fated mates
✨ high angst
✨ “where is my wife?!”
✨ secrets and hidden truths
✨ incredible world building
✨ dual POV
✨ HEA
✨ standalone
Summary:
Gemma lives with her father and two younger sisters, and they are drowning in debt. To save her family, she agrees to marry a wealthy and mysterious stranger. But her husband-to-be is a Kylorr, one of the most brutal and feared races in the Four Quadrants who survive off blood.
Cold and cruel, Azur demands Gemma's submission and plans to make her life a living hell. But neither of them could predict how his bite doesn't bring pain but absolute pleasure to them both.
My Thoughts:
When I tell you I am OBSESSED, I mean it! I love sci-fi / fantasy romance, and this book is easily one of my absolute favorites within the genre and of all time! Once I started, I could not put it down!
It is TRUE enemies-to-lovers where there are actual feelings of hatred. But once Azur and Gemma realize his bite will bring them absolute pleasure, it's really a toss up between if they want to fight or f*ck each other. The tension between them is palpable, especially when Gemma is so defiant (to Azur's annoyance and appreciation). The banter between these two had me kicking my feet and screaming. Their chemistry is off the charts and the spice was HOT! Seriously, these scenes had my heart pounding and thighs clenching. They were that good!
Bonus, the writing was great and world-building was incredibly well done. This is a complicated universe, but I never once felt confused or overwhelmed by the information!
Update: The audiobook is just as good! I love that it’s a dual narration! The narrators do a fantastic job! 10/10 recommend!
Favorite Quotes:
"I will do whatever I please with my wife . . . She is mine now."
_______
Did she realize that her neck began to flush red whenever she saw me? Blood rushing. Preparing. Like her body knew who it belonged to and it was doing whatever it could to please its master.
_______
Though her mere presence put me on edge, I wanted her close. I wanted her near.
_______
"But if you think that you are the worst thing I've endured, then you would be wrong. So do your worst, husband. Feed from me. Make me fear you. Break me. But I will always be my own."
_______
"Be careful what you offer me, wife." His teeth flashed and he bent low. His breath spread over my delicate and sensitive inner wrist as he said, "Because I will take it. When it comes to you, I will take whatever I want."
_______
"You came looking for me because you needed your relief, didn't you? You were craving my bite, my fangs because now you know I'm the only one who can make you feel this."
_______
"You beg so well, wife," he growled, lifting his head, meeting my eyes. "Beg me more."
_______
"Then it's a good thin your husband is a berserker," he answered me. "Because I would tear anyone in two if they came for you."
_______
"You think I don't want to be without your blood, wife? I don't want to be without you."
_______
"We can begin again so that you will always know I want to marry you because. . . because you are my heart, Gemma. My heart's blood. My laraya. Not for any other reason.
_______
December 17, 2022
3.75 Smut Stars
I enjoy Zoey Draven books. They are just wacky alien and/or omegaverse smut-fests and therefore right up my alley. This was the first one in a new series that promises to be delicious. Cannot wait for the next one.
Here's to smut for smut's sake, friends.
I enjoy Zoey Draven books. They are just wacky alien and/or omegaverse smut-fests and therefore right up my alley. This was the first one in a new series that promises to be delicious. Cannot wait for the next one.
Here's to smut for smut's sake, friends.
January 14, 2023
✦ expected to love this because helloooooooo have you seen the sexy winged alien man on the cover... but it was sadly disappointing.
✦ this was so dragged out i started skimming at like 40%. it just got boring.
✦ the hero and heroine had their blood bond, which made them constantly horny for each other, but that is basically ALL they had. they had absolutely no actual chemistry or connection. 🫣
✦ this was so dragged out i started skimming at like 40%. it just got boring.
✦ the hero and heroine had their blood bond, which made them constantly horny for each other, but that is basically ALL they had. they had absolutely no actual chemistry or connection. 🫣
January 3, 2023
A forced marriage to pay off her father’s gambling debts but add vampire aliens with wings and horns… oh and knotting…
I was OBSESSED with Zoey Draven’s Horde King’s of Dakkar series so I was really excited to read this book. It did not disappoint! It is in the same universe and has the same vibe to her other series but it completely stood on its own. They have a more advanced lifestyle than the Horde Kings but not overly futuristic which I loved.
This is a true hate to love romance, (I wouldn’t call it enemies to lovers because for me, there needs to be history of them attempting to basically kill each other but, there was definitely a lot of hate). Azur loathed Gemma and her family so much he refused to see anything else. There was a lot of resistance trying to deny the little cracks in their hearts for each other. Their relationship development was perfection. It never felt like they were going too fast or that we were missing anything crucial to their story but it never felt too slow either. I could really feel their connection. The banter was just as fun to read about as the sweet moments and they just seemed to fit together really well.
It sounds like it’s going to be similar to her other series where each book is a stand alone but all has one bigger plot connected throughout. I can’t wait for the next one coming out early 2023!!
I was OBSESSED with Zoey Draven’s Horde King’s of Dakkar series so I was really excited to read this book. It did not disappoint! It is in the same universe and has the same vibe to her other series but it completely stood on its own. They have a more advanced lifestyle than the Horde Kings but not overly futuristic which I loved.
This is a true hate to love romance, (I wouldn’t call it enemies to lovers because for me, there needs to be history of them attempting to basically kill each other but, there was definitely a lot of hate). Azur loathed Gemma and her family so much he refused to see anything else. There was a lot of resistance trying to deny the little cracks in their hearts for each other. Their relationship development was perfection. It never felt like they were going too fast or that we were missing anything crucial to their story but it never felt too slow either. I could really feel their connection. The banter was just as fun to read about as the sweet moments and they just seemed to fit together really well.
It sounds like it’s going to be similar to her other series where each book is a stand alone but all has one bigger plot connected throughout. I can’t wait for the next one coming out early 2023!!
August 28, 2024
THIS BOOK?!?!?!!???
Zoey Draven knew what had to be done, and she did it. FLAWLESSLY. I know her keyboard had imposter syndrome after being used to type this masterpiece.
Whatever Gemma wanted, Azur gave it to her. He could not, would not, deny her. I was rooting for him, and he did NOT let me down. His hatred begrudgingly turning into love was a treat, and the cherry, caramel, fudge, and sprinkles on top was him feeling & expressing genuine remorse for his actions.
I have a totally reasonable request for 15 more books of this series to be out right now, thank you.
★★★★★
Zoey Draven knew what had to be done, and she did it. FLAWLESSLY. I know her keyboard had imposter syndrome after being used to type this masterpiece.
Whatever Gemma wanted, Azur gave it to her. He could not, would not, deny her. I was rooting for him, and he did NOT let me down. His hatred begrudgingly turning into love was a treat, and the cherry, caramel, fudge, and sprinkles on top was him feeling & expressing genuine remorse for his actions.
I have a totally reasonable request for 15 more books of this series to be out right now, thank you.
★★★★★
June 30, 2023
“Because I will take it. When it comes to you, I will take whatever I want”
Gemma is having trouble with her father's debt and works really hard to save her family while also taking care of her sisters.
With the need for money to save her family, Gemma accepts an offer to marry a Kylorr known for their scary, ruthless, depraved cravings and their need for blood.
Azur of House Kaalium demands Gemma be his wife. To do whatever he wants from her and also to feed from her. All of these were necessary for Gemma to finally pay off her father's debts, but then things got interesting when Azur found out that Gemma is actually his blood mate.
“I will break you,” he promised me softly, those eyes rapt on me. “It is only a matter of time.”
I liked it especially the first half of the story. Gemma even though she's a victim but she's a fighter. Azur is mean to her. He despised her. So, at first, I really enjoyed their story. The world building and getting to know their world. I thought it was going to be another 5 star read, but then when entering the second half, it's really dragging the never-ending sex scenes, chapters after chapters like yeah i get it you guys are mates and all BUT HEY WHO AM I TO JUDGE🫡 MATES HAHA WHATS THAT CANT RELATE
“I did want to hurt you,”
“But not now?”
I held my breath as he shook his head.
“No, not now.”
Gemma is selfless and brave, and she loves her family and sisters. She would literally do anything to keep them safe. :')
Then his wings spread, nothing more than a whisper as they stretched. Completely encasing us within the alcove, his wings were like a barrier, a door, that allowed nothing else in. Even the wind outside seemed to soften, as if it didn’t dare to disobey him.
Azur, I can understand the pain he's going through. He also loves his family so much and has his own way of protecting and saving them.
“You think I don’t want to be without your blood, wife? I don’t want to be without you.”
All the breath whistled from my throat when I whirled back to face Azur.
“My maddening, stubborn, frustrating, wonderful little human wife,” he finished, his voice a dark deep rumble. “Today has already been hell without you.”
I love their dynamic tbh, they're so perfect for each other. It warms my heart to see them overcome their deepest pasts to be the best version of themselves.
Anyway, this is good overall, and I'm kind of curious about the rest of the series: is it going to be his brothers? because I am personally curious about Azur's twin🤭.
And hey, if you are looking for a very hot vampire smut (with wings and horns), this is for you🫡🫡
Gemma is having trouble with her father's debt and works really hard to save her family while also taking care of her sisters.
With the need for money to save her family, Gemma accepts an offer to marry a Kylorr known for their scary, ruthless, depraved cravings and their need for blood.
Azur of House Kaalium demands Gemma be his wife. To do whatever he wants from her and also to feed from her. All of these were necessary for Gemma to finally pay off her father's debts, but then things got interesting when Azur found out that Gemma is actually his blood mate.
“I will break you,” he promised me softly, those eyes rapt on me. “It is only a matter of time.”
I liked it especially the first half of the story. Gemma even though she's a victim but she's a fighter. Azur is mean to her. He despised her. So, at first, I really enjoyed their story. The world building and getting to know their world. I thought it was going to be another 5 star read, but then when entering the second half, it's really dragging the never-ending sex scenes, chapters after chapters like yeah i get it you guys are mates and all BUT HEY WHO AM I TO JUDGE🫡 MATES HAHA WHATS THAT CANT RELATE
“I did want to hurt you,”
“But not now?”
I held my breath as he shook his head.
“No, not now.”
Gemma is selfless and brave, and she loves her family and sisters. She would literally do anything to keep them safe. :')
Then his wings spread, nothing more than a whisper as they stretched. Completely encasing us within the alcove, his wings were like a barrier, a door, that allowed nothing else in. Even the wind outside seemed to soften, as if it didn’t dare to disobey him.
Azur, I can understand the pain he's going through. He also loves his family so much and has his own way of protecting and saving them.
“You think I don’t want to be without your blood, wife? I don’t want to be without you.”
All the breath whistled from my throat when I whirled back to face Azur.
“My maddening, stubborn, frustrating, wonderful little human wife,” he finished, his voice a dark deep rumble. “Today has already been hell without you.”
I love their dynamic tbh, they're so perfect for each other. It warms my heart to see them overcome their deepest pasts to be the best version of themselves.
Anyway, this is good overall, and I'm kind of curious about the rest of the series: is it going to be his brothers? because I am personally curious about Azur's twin🤭.
And hey, if you are looking for a very hot vampire smut (with wings and horns), this is for you🫡🫡
December 27, 2025
4 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I want you disobedient, little wife,” I purred. “Because it will be all the more pleasurable to break you.”
“You might have bought me, Azur,” she told me, her voice strong and even. “But you will never own me. You think I am frightened of what you could do to me? Well, I am. Does that please you? But if you think that you are the worst thing I’ve ever endured, then you would be wrong. So do your worst, husband. Feed from me. Make me fear you. Break me. But I will always be my own.”
An arranged marriage? With hate-to-love? Between a human and an alien lord? Who have an insane sexual tension? Featuring a 30-year-old heroine? Say no more.
Desire in his Blood was a delightful and sizzling treat! and while I'm not very enthusiastic about aliens/foreign species but damn how do I get a hot Kylorr warrior myself?
Maybe because I went in expecting a read focused solely on the romance and action, but I was actually surprised and quite delighted with how loss and grief was woven into the story.
I found myself resonating with Gemma's journey deeply as an eldest daughter and I finished the book feeling quite proud of her growth—on the other hand, I gradually started to like Azur and enjoyed seeing that hard exterior crumble and my god he had me swooning halfway through the book.
As a reader who enjoys world-building and lore feasts, I was rewarded with intriguing intergalactic and species lore that enriches the setting of the story to me.
I can't wait to read the interconnected standalones that follow this one! I devoured this book within 24 hours and highly recommend it even if you don't typically enjoy alien romances. I did both the ebook and audiobook at the same time and if you can get the audiobook, you should!
Content warning: graphic violence, blood, mention of su*cide, war, abuse, grief, torture, death (off page).
“I want you disobedient, little wife,” I purred. “Because it will be all the more pleasurable to break you.”
“You might have bought me, Azur,” she told me, her voice strong and even. “But you will never own me. You think I am frightened of what you could do to me? Well, I am. Does that please you? But if you think that you are the worst thing I’ve ever endured, then you would be wrong. So do your worst, husband. Feed from me. Make me fear you. Break me. But I will always be my own.”
An arranged marriage? With hate-to-love? Between a human and an alien lord? Who have an insane sexual tension? Featuring a 30-year-old heroine? Say no more.
Desire in his Blood was a delightful and sizzling treat! and while I'm not very enthusiastic about aliens/foreign species but damn how do I get a hot Kylorr warrior myself?
Maybe because I went in expecting a read focused solely on the romance and action, but I was actually surprised and quite delighted with how loss and grief was woven into the story.
I found myself resonating with Gemma's journey deeply as an eldest daughter and I finished the book feeling quite proud of her growth—on the other hand, I gradually started to like Azur and enjoyed seeing that hard exterior crumble and my god he had me swooning halfway through the book.
As a reader who enjoys world-building and lore feasts, I was rewarded with intriguing intergalactic and species lore that enriches the setting of the story to me.
I can't wait to read the interconnected standalones that follow this one! I devoured this book within 24 hours and highly recommend it even if you don't typically enjoy alien romances. I did both the ebook and audiobook at the same time and if you can get the audiobook, you should!
Content warning: graphic violence, blood, mention of su*cide, war, abuse, grief, torture, death (off page).
June 21, 2024
Vampire-like aliens!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙❤️💚💜
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😕😊😄😘
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Duet Narration
The heroine: Gemma - she has been working like crazy for over five years, managing her families' mines since her mother died, while her father has wracked up huge debts and spent money meant to pay their workers on get rich quick schemes. He also drinks too much. She is always dealing with their creditors and the threats against her and her sisters. One of his largest creditors brokered a marriage between Gemma and a wealthy Kylorr, one of the most brutal races in the four quadrants.
The Hero: Azur of House Kaalium, son of Trhon, the High Lord of Laras - he purchased a human female bride, the eldest of House Haras. The Kylorr were famous for their battle rages, they descend from a line of berserkers. It is said that you should stay far away from a Kylorr in a rage lest you be ripped apart piece by piece.
The Story: It wasn’t long before Gemma was marrying Azur, and she soon found out the reason he spared no expense to get her. Her father was his enemy and he wanted revenge against House Haras. He tells her she now belongs to him, and she could not refuse him. What she didn’t know was that her family had wronged a member of his house, and she was owed to him, because balance must be restored. An eye for an eye. Azur had saved House Hara so he could see it fall once more, at his hands.
This was a good story, and very steamy, though it wasn’t particularly original for alien romance. I liked the fact that Azur wanted to hate Gemma because she was the daughter of his enemy, and he fought against having feelings for her, but her kind nature kept shining through and made him forget the circumstances that brought them together.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via duet narration and was narrated by Marcio Catalano and Stella Hunter. I really like Stella Hunter; she sounds age appropriate for Gemma and has a very nice voice. Marcio Catalano is not one of my favorite male narrators, but he does have a fairly deep voice and is good at doing different voices for different characters.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙❤️💚💜
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😕😊😄😘
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Duet Narration
The heroine: Gemma - she has been working like crazy for over five years, managing her families' mines since her mother died, while her father has wracked up huge debts and spent money meant to pay their workers on get rich quick schemes. He also drinks too much. She is always dealing with their creditors and the threats against her and her sisters. One of his largest creditors brokered a marriage between Gemma and a wealthy Kylorr, one of the most brutal races in the four quadrants.
The Hero: Azur of House Kaalium, son of Trhon, the High Lord of Laras - he purchased a human female bride, the eldest of House Haras. The Kylorr were famous for their battle rages, they descend from a line of berserkers. It is said that you should stay far away from a Kylorr in a rage lest you be ripped apart piece by piece.
The Story: It wasn’t long before Gemma was marrying Azur, and she soon found out the reason he spared no expense to get her. Her father was his enemy and he wanted revenge against House Haras. He tells her she now belongs to him, and she could not refuse him. What she didn’t know was that her family had wronged a member of his house, and she was owed to him, because balance must be restored. An eye for an eye. Azur had saved House Hara so he could see it fall once more, at his hands.
This was a good story, and very steamy, though it wasn’t particularly original for alien romance. I liked the fact that Azur wanted to hate Gemma because she was the daughter of his enemy, and he fought against having feelings for her, but her kind nature kept shining through and made him forget the circumstances that brought them together.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via duet narration and was narrated by Marcio Catalano and Stella Hunter. I really like Stella Hunter; she sounds age appropriate for Gemma and has a very nice voice. Marcio Catalano is not one of my favorite male narrators, but he does have a fairly deep voice and is good at doing different voices for different characters.
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March 16, 2025
Re-read 2025 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Still as amazing as the first time. The chemistry, world-building but most of all the fated mate trope is so well written. Ah… Gemma and Azur make my heart sing and gives me goosebumps.
———
Desire in his Blood is my first sci-fi romance and what an introduction to the genre it was. I was completely mesmerized and hooked on this story.
Fabulous enemies to lovers banter between Gemma and Azur along with a slow burn of a story. These two was so much fun and intense.
Azur feeding on Gemma was highly erotic especially because of their special connection and how into it Gemma was.
The world building was so well done and the side characters got a good introduction that I’m very excited to continue this series.
Azur and Gemma gave me deep emotions, fabulous steam and character development that elevated this story. I’ve found a new author and genre.
Still as amazing as the first time. The chemistry, world-building but most of all the fated mate trope is so well written. Ah… Gemma and Azur make my heart sing and gives me goosebumps.
———
Desire in his Blood is my first sci-fi romance and what an introduction to the genre it was. I was completely mesmerized and hooked on this story.
Fabulous enemies to lovers banter between Gemma and Azur along with a slow burn of a story. These two was so much fun and intense.
Azur feeding on Gemma was highly erotic especially because of their special connection and how into it Gemma was.
The world building was so well done and the side characters got a good introduction that I’m very excited to continue this series.
Azur and Gemma gave me deep emotions, fabulous steam and character development that elevated this story. I’ve found a new author and genre.
May 21, 2023
Ok, the cover totally sold me on one-clicking the book, and I DID NOT regret it. Also, KU makes it so easy to try out new to me authors.
All the things I really enjoyed about this book:
Big alpha male, with a big mushy heart when it comes to his loved ones.
Fangs, blood, and sexy times.
Loved the relationship between h and H.
Strong-willed heroine, smart, loving, and just the right person to tame her man.
Low on relationship drama.
Great storytelling and writing.
World building that was just right.
The book was very enjoyable, fast and easy read. The writing was just right, pulled me in, kept me invested, and I absolutely loved the development of their relationship. The couple actually figured out how the other one ticked - which makes for a low angst read. My favourite kind!!!
All the things I really enjoyed about this book:
Big alpha male, with a big mushy heart when it comes to his loved ones.
Fangs, blood, and sexy times.
Loved the relationship between h and H.
Strong-willed heroine, smart, loving, and just the right person to tame her man.
Low on relationship drama.
Great storytelling and writing.
World building that was just right.
The book was very enjoyable, fast and easy read. The writing was just right, pulled me in, kept me invested, and I absolutely loved the development of their relationship. The couple actually figured out how the other one ticked - which makes for a low angst read. My favourite kind!!!
December 23, 2022
For some reason I always giggle when I pick up an alien romance kwhrowjdjekej
Also, one of my absolute favorite new-to-me authors this year has been Zoey Draven. When I picked this up, I actually thought it was by Grace Draven (another author I love). Half way through the book however, I realize that this was the same author who wrote “Captive of the Horde King”, which I read earlier this year and absolutely loved.
Moral of this story is: All women whose last name is “Draven” are excellent story-tellers and shall be trusted from now on.
Side note: Somebody please change the covers though. They’re truly horrendous🥲
Also, one of my absolute favorite new-to-me authors this year has been Zoey Draven. When I picked this up, I actually thought it was by Grace Draven (another author I love). Half way through the book however, I realize that this was the same author who wrote “Captive of the Horde King”, which I read earlier this year and absolutely loved.
Moral of this story is: All women whose last name is “Draven” are excellent story-tellers and shall be trusted from now on.
Side note: Somebody please change the covers though. They’re truly horrendous🥲
November 20, 2022
Rating: 1 star
DNF 59% in 🥲
The fact the H wouldn’t have been interested in the h if it weren’t for the fact of their blood drinking bond how sad 😬
He legit thought she was plain and her looks weren’t anything special. It says in the book “ I’d heard the Hara daughters were well sought-after. I’d heard they were great beauties of their race, but I couldn’t see it in Gemma.”
LIKE WTF!!! And only when he realized that she was his blood drinking mate did he think of her attractive and was interested in her. He treated her horrible and treated her like a whore. The H and h don’t have a proper connection at all. All they have is their lust 😑 I needed some grovel from him and it didn’t happen
DNF 59% in 🥲
The fact the H wouldn’t have been interested in the h if it weren’t for the fact of their blood drinking bond how sad 😬
He legit thought she was plain and her looks weren’t anything special. It says in the book “ I’d heard the Hara daughters were well sought-after. I’d heard they were great beauties of their race, but I couldn’t see it in Gemma.”
LIKE WTF!!! And only when he realized that she was his blood drinking mate did he think of her attractive and was interested in her. He treated her horrible and treated her like a whore. The H and h don’t have a proper connection at all. All they have is their lust 😑 I needed some grovel from him and it didn’t happen
December 11, 2025
(Reread 10/12/25)-Highly recommend this, it was still so good the second time.
This was great it’s the first book in a new series and worked for me in every way. It’s a sci-fi enemies-to-lovers alien romance with an arranged marriage and strong revenge trope. Gemma of house Hara is the oldest daughter and carries a heavy burden. She alone is responsible for keeping her family’s heads above water whilst her wastrel father squanders and gambles their business and estate away. Unbeknownst to her two sisters, the family is now in dire straights which is the only reason she reluctantly agrees to marriage with a male she's never met on the understanding that he will clear her family’s debts.
Azur is a Kylorr an alien berserker a race that has a violent reputation. Equipped with horns wings and fangs they exist on a diet of blood that supplements their regular diet. This pastime also helps to strengthen and sustain them. No source is more powerful than that of their blood mate which is their ideal match in every way. Something Azur now discovers he possesses in his new human wife and considering the less than honest reasons he married her this information is not a welcome addition.
This initially had a somewhat grey undertone with the way that Azur acts towards his new bride but this does gradually give way to feelings of intensity and attraction which Azur due to his initial feelings of apathy fights strongly.
In this, the sins of the father have literally been inherited by the daughter and it’s her father's past actions that now place Gemma firmly in her husband's crosshairs. Not understanding why Azur seems to hate her intensely Gemma tries to make the best of it. But the intense attraction she feels especially when her husband feasts on her blood is something Gemma hadn’t ever anticipated. Equally, Azur is also fighting his equally intense evolving feelings a blood-mate should be a gift but with the vows of vengeance already promised elsewhere, he’s greatly conflicted.
This had passion and chemistry and plenty of primal behaviour. I loved the initial push-pull of Azur and Gemma’s situation and the enemies-to-lovers evolution felt authentic and believable. The characters also felt fully fleshed and both were very relatable.
I liked that Gemma had a backbone I was slightly worried initially considering she acted the doormat with her family but it soon became apparent that she was more than a match for Azur.
I liked how different in appearance Azur was and though he started this with such vengeance and hatred and behaving the way he did towards someone wholly innocent he does manage to turn it around and by the time this concluded I totally believed in his full devotion and care towards Gemma. He did a complete one-eighty and now had her back one hundred and ten per cent.
I definitely recommend this if you like well-written engaging sci-fi romances that come complete with a strong dominant possessive male and I will now be continuing on with those series.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/63435390
October 31, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: Arranged marriage, fated mates, revenge, enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Desire in His Blood is definitely one of my favorite reads of the year! Beautiful storytelling that sets the stage, pulls you in, and holds you there until the end. There is tons of action and emotional ups and downs. The world building is fantastic and it makes you so excited for what's to come. Desire in His Blood is angsty, emotional, and gut wrenching in parts and in other places you just find yourself smiling while reading. I definitely love how much the storyline reminded me of my old school, historical faves complete with the plain, spinster heroine ❤️.
I absolutely love Azur and Gemma. Love how dedicated to his family Azur is and how protective. I love how he married Gemma as a tool for revenge, but how he can't help but fall for her in spite of himself. And he's completely perplexed by his feelings. Not the fact that he lusts after her because of the mating bond, but true feelings. This is a true hate to lovers on his side, but you can't help but love Gemma - and neither can he :). Gemma is practical, a hard worker, and selfless to the ones she loves. TONS of chemistry between these two and hot, panty melting smexy, despite it being a bit of a slow burn. All that biting, nipping, and licking, lol ** shivers**. I didn't know how Ms. Draven was going to surpass the Horde Kings of Drakkar, but she completely blew me away. I truly can't wait to see what's next!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes contain spoilers
Trope: Arranged marriage, fated mates, revenge, enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Desire in His Blood is definitely one of my favorite reads of the year! Beautiful storytelling that sets the stage, pulls you in, and holds you there until the end. There is tons of action and emotional ups and downs. The world building is fantastic and it makes you so excited for what's to come. Desire in His Blood is angsty, emotional, and gut wrenching in parts and in other places you just find yourself smiling while reading. I definitely love how much the storyline reminded me of my old school, historical faves complete with the plain, spinster heroine ❤️.
I absolutely love Azur and Gemma. Love how dedicated to his family Azur is and how protective. I love how he married Gemma as a tool for revenge, but how he can't help but fall for her in spite of himself. And he's completely perplexed by his feelings. Not the fact that he lusts after her because of the mating bond, but true feelings. This is a true hate to lovers on his side, but you can't help but love Gemma - and neither can he :). Gemma is practical, a hard worker, and selfless to the ones she loves. TONS of chemistry between these two and hot, panty melting smexy, despite it being a bit of a slow burn. All that biting, nipping, and licking, lol ** shivers**. I didn't know how Ms. Draven was going to surpass the Horde Kings of Drakkar, but she completely blew me away. I truly can't wait to see what's next!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes contain spoilers
October 15, 2024
I picked this up because i wanted some toxic goodness and the cover just looked right up my alley. I ended up loving it much More than i expected . I now recommend this book to literally everybody. I cannot tell you how many people I got to read this.
Our fmc Gemma is basically sold off to marry a Vampire Alien to settle her fathers debts. Azur has set out to make her miserable to get revenge for something Gemma knows nothing about.
Obviously things do not go as planned. 😏
Theres some really hot and sweet moments .
5/5 🌶️
Cant wait for the next installments
Our fmc Gemma is basically sold off to marry a Vampire Alien to settle her fathers debts. Azur has set out to make her miserable to get revenge for something Gemma knows nothing about.
Obviously things do not go as planned. 😏
Theres some really hot and sweet moments .
5/5 🌶️
Cant wait for the next installments
November 2, 2022
So so good!
Nothing gives a good dose of escapism from reality than a wonderfully written alien romance.
If you love Marriage of convenience trope: you should absolutely read this book. It has everything I love in a good romance book.
Strong, loyal and honourable protagonists, alien planet, different and fascinating customs and cultures, colourful and wonderful secondary characters, solid plot, angst, drama, passion, emotion and scorching love scenes!
Azur and Gemma were soulmates.
They had a rocky start and I loved how their relationship progressed and how much they fought for their love. Especially Gemma. She had so many difficult obstacles and hard choices to overcome and I loved how Azur supported her through it all.
I could feel the dilemma and turmoil of Azur and how he wanted to do right by everyone. Similarly Gemma’s bewilderment and confusion regarding Azur’s initial behaviour. All because of the fantastic writing style of Zoey Draven. It’s no secret that I absolutely love (and eagerly wait for) her books.
I also enjoyed the amazing depiction of their alien world. The world building and different species and their beliefs were all so fascinating and interesting.
God, just gimme the next book already!
Recommended, Kindle Unlimited and safe.
P.s I need a book for every characters introduced in the book please.
I received an advance copy for free and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
Nothing gives a good dose of escapism from reality than a wonderfully written alien romance.
If you love Marriage of convenience trope: you should absolutely read this book. It has everything I love in a good romance book.
Strong, loyal and honourable protagonists, alien planet, different and fascinating customs and cultures, colourful and wonderful secondary characters, solid plot, angst, drama, passion, emotion and scorching love scenes!
Azur and Gemma were soulmates.
They had a rocky start and I loved how their relationship progressed and how much they fought for their love. Especially Gemma. She had so many difficult obstacles and hard choices to overcome and I loved how Azur supported her through it all.
I could feel the dilemma and turmoil of Azur and how he wanted to do right by everyone. Similarly Gemma’s bewilderment and confusion regarding Azur’s initial behaviour. All because of the fantastic writing style of Zoey Draven. It’s no secret that I absolutely love (and eagerly wait for) her books.
I also enjoyed the amazing depiction of their alien world. The world building and different species and their beliefs were all so fascinating and interesting.
God, just gimme the next book already!
Recommended, Kindle Unlimited and safe.
P.s I need a book for every characters introduced in the book please.
I received an advance copy for free and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
June 21, 2024
DESIRE IN HIS BLOOD is the first book in Zoey Draven’s brand new adult fantasy/sci-fi romance series—Brides of the Kylorr—and it was nothing short of brilliant. I discovered Zoey with her Horde Kings of Dakkar series and immediately fell in love with her story-telling. I devoured that series and I have been obsessed with her writing ever since. DESIRE IN HIS BLOOD was absolutely everything I wanted it to be. I read it in one sitting, I was just unable to stop reading.
I think Zoey’s writing is amazing, the way she is able to bring these characters and world to life is unparalleled, the way she makes me feel while reading is something I don’t often come across. I have a few favorite authors that I love and would literally read anything they publish, Zoey is now one of them.
I absolutely loved the story of this book, it’s not your typical “human-woman-gets-abducted-by-aliens-and-sold-to-the-mysterious-alien-king” — not that there is anything wrong with these stories, it’s just not what this book is about. What I love with this book and Zoey’s Horde Kings series, is that humans already live out of space among other alien species, they’ve lived there for centuries and this has always been their life. It’s refreshing and, for me, makes the story much more interesting.
DESIRE IN HIS BLOOD is the story of human woman Gemma, who in order to save her sisters from her father’s never-ending debts, decides to marry a Kylorr, berserker-like aliens who survive on blood, have grey skin, horns, and giant wings. I know, it’s hot.
Just please read the blurb. It explains the story way better than I ever could.
I loved the heroine, Gemma. She is thirty, would do anything to protect her family, but isn’t a pushover either. She is full of compassion, brave and extremely smart. I loved everything about her. I loved how even when she was scared shitless, she always put on a brave face, I loved how compassionate and kind she could be, but also fierce and unyielding when needed. It’s rare for me to love the heroines as much as I usually love the heroes, I know, it’s not my best trait, but I can’t help it. I often find them annoying. I have never felt this way while reading Zoey’s books. She always manages to write such amazing and nuanced heroines, almost like I could put myself in their shoes and make the same decisions. I don’t know if that makes sense, but it makes sense to me.
Azur, the hero, was just as you would expect a big bad alien to be. At first, he is not the nicest, but that’s kind of how I like them. Okay, okay, I need therapy, whatever. But you quickly discover another side of him, and not everything is how it seems. He is strong, and hot, like seriously hot, I think it’s very important to mention that. But he’s also very smart, and compassionate, and bossy, and hot, did I say hot already? Anyway, I don’t want to reveal too much, so you’ll have to read the book to fully enjoy the magnificence that is Azur of House Kaalium, the High Lord of Laras.
Zoey wrote these characters to perfection, the way their relationship evolved felt so organic and so real. I loved them together. The pacing of this whole book was perfect, I wouldn’t change a thing. I loved how we got to explore their relationship at the same time as them, how we got to see it evolve from being an arranged marriage, to companionship, and finally love. One thing I love as a reader is being able to enjoy the couple actually together for a little while, and not have them get together just at the end. To me that’s frustrating because I always end up wanting more, to see them happy as a couple, to read about it some more, and Zoey gave me that. I absolutely adore that in a story and this one didn’t disappoint.
As for the storyline itself, once again, Zoey didn’t miss. I love a good romance, of course, but I also enjoy a good plot. As I’ve said, I was hooked from the start, be it for the romance or the storyline. I thought it was super interesting, from the way Zoey describes the Four Quadrants and how everything works, to why Gemma has to marry, and why the Kylorr is interested in her in the first place. And when she gets to Laras, Azur’s home, I was done for. Zoey describes everything so vividly without it being too much, and I could picture myself there.
As you can probably tell from this never-ending review, I really really loved this book. And something I haven’t talked about, is how freaking hot it was. Like, blood-sucking-while-fucking-hot. Don’t think I can put that in my amazon review, but I don’t care. I’ll change the word. Anyway, it was HOT, the angst, the sexual tension, the world building, everything, I loved everything and can’t recommend it enough. Please, go read it and thank me later.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I think Zoey’s writing is amazing, the way she is able to bring these characters and world to life is unparalleled, the way she makes me feel while reading is something I don’t often come across. I have a few favorite authors that I love and would literally read anything they publish, Zoey is now one of them.
I absolutely loved the story of this book, it’s not your typical “human-woman-gets-abducted-by-aliens-and-sold-to-the-mysterious-alien-king” — not that there is anything wrong with these stories, it’s just not what this book is about. What I love with this book and Zoey’s Horde Kings series, is that humans already live out of space among other alien species, they’ve lived there for centuries and this has always been their life. It’s refreshing and, for me, makes the story much more interesting.
DESIRE IN HIS BLOOD is the story of human woman Gemma, who in order to save her sisters from her father’s never-ending debts, decides to marry a Kylorr, berserker-like aliens who survive on blood, have grey skin, horns, and giant wings. I know, it’s hot.
Just please read the blurb. It explains the story way better than I ever could.
I loved the heroine, Gemma. She is thirty, would do anything to protect her family, but isn’t a pushover either. She is full of compassion, brave and extremely smart. I loved everything about her. I loved how even when she was scared shitless, she always put on a brave face, I loved how compassionate and kind she could be, but also fierce and unyielding when needed. It’s rare for me to love the heroines as much as I usually love the heroes, I know, it’s not my best trait, but I can’t help it. I often find them annoying. I have never felt this way while reading Zoey’s books. She always manages to write such amazing and nuanced heroines, almost like I could put myself in their shoes and make the same decisions. I don’t know if that makes sense, but it makes sense to me.
Azur, the hero, was just as you would expect a big bad alien to be. At first, he is not the nicest, but that’s kind of how I like them. Okay, okay, I need therapy, whatever. But you quickly discover another side of him, and not everything is how it seems. He is strong, and hot, like seriously hot, I think it’s very important to mention that. But he’s also very smart, and compassionate, and bossy, and hot, did I say hot already? Anyway, I don’t want to reveal too much, so you’ll have to read the book to fully enjoy the magnificence that is Azur of House Kaalium, the High Lord of Laras.
Zoey wrote these characters to perfection, the way their relationship evolved felt so organic and so real. I loved them together. The pacing of this whole book was perfect, I wouldn’t change a thing. I loved how we got to explore their relationship at the same time as them, how we got to see it evolve from being an arranged marriage, to companionship, and finally love. One thing I love as a reader is being able to enjoy the couple actually together for a little while, and not have them get together just at the end. To me that’s frustrating because I always end up wanting more, to see them happy as a couple, to read about it some more, and Zoey gave me that. I absolutely adore that in a story and this one didn’t disappoint.
As for the storyline itself, once again, Zoey didn’t miss. I love a good romance, of course, but I also enjoy a good plot. As I’ve said, I was hooked from the start, be it for the romance or the storyline. I thought it was super interesting, from the way Zoey describes the Four Quadrants and how everything works, to why Gemma has to marry, and why the Kylorr is interested in her in the first place. And when she gets to Laras, Azur’s home, I was done for. Zoey describes everything so vividly without it being too much, and I could picture myself there.
As you can probably tell from this never-ending review, I really really loved this book. And something I haven’t talked about, is how freaking hot it was. Like, blood-sucking-while-fucking-hot. Don’t think I can put that in my amazon review, but I don’t care. I’ll change the word. Anyway, it was HOT, the angst, the sexual tension, the world building, everything, I loved everything and can’t recommend it enough. Please, go read it and thank me later.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2022
Welp. This was utterly fantastic in every way. True enemies to lovers with some wonderfully swoony moments and plenty of steam balanced with an intriguing soft sci fi world.
This was a GREAT time. I'm very impressed with this author a d so happy to see she has quite an extensive backlist.
Seriously this book was fantastic, I'm a big fan.
This was a GREAT time. I'm very impressed with this author a d so happy to see she has quite an extensive backlist.
Seriously this book was fantastic, I'm a big fan.
May 24, 2025
so sorry i judged it by the cover (i mean i still read it for a fun time lmao) bc this was genuinely written so well with developed characters and backstory, no stupid third act miscommunication breakup, an fmc with a real brain that does reasonable actions (instead of impulsive things for the plot—PLUS, SHE’S 30 !! YAY for an fmc who didn’t just turn 18💀), an mmc with FEELINGS (and not just some hot, 8-pack man who only growls and knows possessiveness & rage *insert lego batman monologue*)
i thought the amount of world-building was done well. this was still a romance book first, and sci-fi second but the world-building definitely didn't take a backseat in the amount of thought put into it!
i liked the way the authors shows things through actions rather than just telling. it makes immersing myself in the novel way better. and the TENSION between them !! HOLY SHITJSSJSK IT WAS SO GOOD. it's dual POV (in first person, which i usually don't like. i prefer third person POV bc sometimes authors' writings are difficult to tell whose POV i'm reading from. but this author did very well at channeling the fmc and mmc's individual voices!)
(i also appreciate that there was no overlap in POV switches. i don't need to reread a scene twice but w bro's feelings. bc this author was that good at portraying it from the fmc's POV already🙂↕️💗)
AND THE YEARNING (ESPECIALLY FROM HIM. FOR HIS WIFE HE INITIALLY WANTED TO USE FOR REVENGE)😫 we just don't get that nowadays 🚬
i usually don't like reading arranged marriages or anything of that sort because of the power imbalance and how the mmc treats the fmc but this one did something to me guys. he’s different i swear
if you enjoyed ice planet barbarians, you would also love this. i personally loved this book/universe more !! perhaps it's because we have a bigger cast and more realms to explore
also, i would definitely appreciate a map of this planet because there are a lot of locations, rulers, and realms mentioned
((and can we also get a different cover edition bc i don't like staring at this on my goodreads💗))
i thought the amount of world-building was done well. this was still a romance book first, and sci-fi second but the world-building definitely didn't take a backseat in the amount of thought put into it!
i liked the way the authors shows things through actions rather than just telling. it makes immersing myself in the novel way better. and the TENSION between them !! HOLY SHITJSSJSK IT WAS SO GOOD. it's dual POV (in first person, which i usually don't like. i prefer third person POV bc sometimes authors' writings are difficult to tell whose POV i'm reading from. but this author did very well at channeling the fmc and mmc's individual voices!)
(i also appreciate that there was no overlap in POV switches. i don't need to reread a scene twice but w bro's feelings. bc this author was that good at portraying it from the fmc's POV already🙂↕️💗)
AND THE YEARNING (ESPECIALLY FROM HIM. FOR HIS WIFE HE INITIALLY WANTED TO USE FOR REVENGE)😫 we just don't get that nowadays 🚬
i usually don't like reading arranged marriages or anything of that sort because of the power imbalance and how the mmc treats the fmc but this one did something to me guys. he’s different i swear
if you enjoyed ice planet barbarians, you would also love this. i personally loved this book/universe more !! perhaps it's because we have a bigger cast and more realms to explore
also, i would definitely appreciate a map of this planet because there are a lot of locations, rulers, and realms mentioned
((and can we also get a different cover edition bc i don't like staring at this on my goodreads💗))
May 14, 2024
BEST book of my year so far. Why oh why did I skip this one for so long?
To my fellow alien romance lovers, I need you to experience this with me.
Dark romance readers, if you have your classic genres like dark contemporary or dark mafia romances covered and are looking to expand your horizons to something a little more alien... THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU.
The alien MMC is still humanoid enough to appeal to new sci-fi romance readers, with impressive but easy to grasp worldbuilding.
The spice is alien enough to feel thrillingly unfamiliar.
READ IT. READ IT NOW.
Actual RTC because this masterpiece deserves it.
To my fellow alien romance lovers, I need you to experience this with me.
Dark romance readers, if you have your classic genres like dark contemporary or dark mafia romances covered and are looking to expand your horizons to something a little more alien... THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU.
The alien MMC is still humanoid enough to appeal to new sci-fi romance readers, with impressive but easy to grasp worldbuilding.
The spice is alien enough to feel thrillingly unfamiliar.
READ IT. READ IT NOW.
Actual RTC because this masterpiece deserves it.
January 22, 2023
4.5 STARS!
"We were fated from the very beginning."Zoey Draven never disappoints! There's always that sharp edge to her stories that keeps me glued to the pages.
July 21, 2024
5 ✨
ೃ⁀➷
Ommgggg, this book has been on my TBR for forever, and it did not disappoint. This book had everything I could ever want. Not only are they enemies to lovers, but they also have an arranged marriage, and he is a vampire alien, so I AM UPPPP!
˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ Azur
So Azur, the MMC, is a vampire alien who basically has the world on his shoulders due to being the eldest and a leader. He was initially repulsive by Gemma’s presence, but when you get the backstory, you understand why. But seeing how he opens his eyes and realizes how much he could not be with Gemma was so cute to see. And also, even when he acts like a grump, you obviously see how big softie he is for the ones he loves.
˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ Gemma
Gemma, my darling, ooo she is literally the definition of the eldest daughter. The way she never felt beautiful compared to her sister and was the one who was trying to make ends meet for her family broke my heart. I love that she did not back down from Azur's remarks and could give him back the same energy, and I live for their bickering. It was pure comedy. I love how loving and understanding she was, and even though she had to move to a foreign planet, she still made sure the other characters around her felt welcome in her presence and wanted to help them in any way.
˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ Overall Thoughts
The way Azur & Gemma’s relationship began to transform was beautiful to see, and the way Azur never failed to remind Gemma how beautiful she is🥹. And when Azur would go “ Wife” or “My love” I was on my kneesssss🧎🏾♀️.OMG THE SPICE WAS SPICYINGGGG especially after they realized they are blood mates and there was knotting happening I WAS HERE FOR ITTTT 🥵🤭. Anyways, I really appreciated learning about the other territories that were mentioned, and I found the side characters to be really wholesome, so I cannot wait to read book 2.
ೃ⁀➷
"We were fated from the very beginning, for reasons I will likely never understand. But I don’t need to understand to know that it’s you. That it will always be you."
Ommgggg, this book has been on my TBR for forever, and it did not disappoint. This book had everything I could ever want. Not only are they enemies to lovers, but they also have an arranged marriage, and he is a vampire alien, so I AM UPPPP!
˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ Azur
So Azur, the MMC, is a vampire alien who basically has the world on his shoulders due to being the eldest and a leader. He was initially repulsive by Gemma’s presence, but when you get the backstory, you understand why. But seeing how he opens his eyes and realizes how much he could not be with Gemma was so cute to see. And also, even when he acts like a grump, you obviously see how big softie he is for the ones he loves.
˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ Gemma
Gemma, my darling, ooo she is literally the definition of the eldest daughter. The way she never felt beautiful compared to her sister and was the one who was trying to make ends meet for her family broke my heart. I love that she did not back down from Azur's remarks and could give him back the same energy, and I live for their bickering. It was pure comedy. I love how loving and understanding she was, and even though she had to move to a foreign planet, she still made sure the other characters around her felt welcome in her presence and wanted to help them in any way.
˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ Overall Thoughts
The way Azur & Gemma’s relationship began to transform was beautiful to see, and the way Azur never failed to remind Gemma how beautiful she is🥹. And when Azur would go “ Wife” or “My love” I was on my kneesssss🧎🏾♀️.OMG THE SPICE WAS SPICYINGGGG especially after they realized they are blood mates and there was knotting happening I WAS HERE FOR ITTTT 🥵🤭. Anyways, I really appreciated learning about the other territories that were mentioned, and I found the side characters to be really wholesome, so I cannot wait to read book 2.
March 27, 2025
… Zoey Draven, you magnificent genius.
Please, please, PLEASE let early 2023 mean Craving In His Blood comes out January 🥵
Look. I am a very simple reader. You promise vampire alien and you deliver vampire alien?
*internally screaming*
I’ve been waiting for the next vampire romance and it has been a drought, looking at new releases and older works, so THANK YOU ZOEY DRAVEN FOR READING MY MIND.
Like honestly. These neck sucking scenes 😮💨😮💨😮💨 Zoey did not come here to play. She said every 👏🏽 scene 👏🏽 we’re pulling hair, baring necks 🧛♂️
And honestly that’s the blood play I’m into. So hot 🤭🤭🤭 That’s why I read vampire romance. For the vampire link of domination, the “special” blood, the hunger 😩😩😩
The vampire alien also has WINGS. So beautiful, I hope we hear more and do more with the wings. Also they have horns. Small claws. Beautiful eyes that I think with no irises or at least they disappear. Hero has ember eyes 😙
Also bonus points for black haired heroines. I’m on a kick for black haired heroines. Witch vibes let’s go. She’s not a witch though. Just a human.
The world-building includes fated mates ie blood mates, and this is the planet from where the famous lore plant comes from. Excited for the world-building! The lore and the Halo orbs remind me of Dune.
Side Note: Yes, more sexy scenes but much of it is neck play. This work is much more in line with the Horde King series than her writing in her other alien works where there was no fantasy writing style, and it was more sci fi/alien smut.
I would also add that the hero has a scheme for vengeance but even as the heroine notes, his bark is worse than his bite.
Let’s hope for a big bad kylorr in this series 😈
Please, please, PLEASE let early 2023 mean Craving In His Blood comes out January 🥵
Look. I am a very simple reader. You promise vampire alien and you deliver vampire alien?
*internally screaming*
I’ve been waiting for the next vampire romance and it has been a drought, looking at new releases and older works, so THANK YOU ZOEY DRAVEN FOR READING MY MIND.
Like honestly. These neck sucking scenes 😮💨😮💨😮💨 Zoey did not come here to play. She said every 👏🏽 scene 👏🏽 we’re pulling hair, baring necks 🧛♂️
And honestly that’s the blood play I’m into. So hot 🤭🤭🤭 That’s why I read vampire romance. For the vampire link of domination, the “special” blood, the hunger 😩😩😩
The vampire alien also has WINGS. So beautiful, I hope we hear more and do more with the wings. Also they have horns. Small claws. Beautiful eyes that I think with no irises or at least they disappear. Hero has ember eyes 😙
Also bonus points for black haired heroines. I’m on a kick for black haired heroines. Witch vibes let’s go. She’s not a witch though. Just a human.
The world-building includes fated mates ie blood mates, and this is the planet from where the famous lore plant comes from. Excited for the world-building! The lore and the Halo orbs remind me of Dune.
Side Note: Yes, more sexy scenes but much of it is neck play. This work is much more in line with the Horde King series than her writing in her other alien works where there was no fantasy writing style, and it was more sci fi/alien smut.
I would also add that the hero has a scheme for vengeance but even as the heroine notes, his bark is worse than his bite.
Let’s hope for a big bad kylorr in this series 😈
July 22, 2023
- plain Jane, spinster h. 30. Has a heart of gold, and she’s a strong female.
Her younger sisters are the beauties, and she’s considered the plain and drab sister who takes care of everyone.
- phony, manufactured attraction between the MCs (which is usually the case in plain Jane + hot H stories, he’s physically attracted because the author said so), seems like he is more attracted to her for her blood than her, because of their blood bond.
He even said he found her plain and anything spectacular to look at, “Her pouting lips were perhaps the most pleasing of her features to look at—plump and pursed���but they couldn’t save the rest of her appearance.”
“I’d heard they were great beauties of their race, but I couldn’t see it in Gemma/h”
“The ferocity with which hunger had gnawed at me was surprising, considering looking at her made me feel vaguely nauseous.”
They had lots of sex, but he only started desiring her after realizing that she was his fated mate after a feeding, before this, he didn’t feel any attraction to her,🤦🏼♀️
-H is a rich and powerful vampire asshole, or a mosquito, since he can fly?😂
He’s a compete douchbag though to the poor h, who made the ultimate sacrifice for her ungrateful family. I really liked her, and hated her family and him in the beginning.
Other wise a decent Alien book.
Edit, giving this book another star because for once, the h was a strong AF woman, and not a doormat.
Her younger sisters are the beauties, and she’s considered the plain and drab sister who takes care of everyone.
- phony, manufactured attraction between the MCs (which is usually the case in plain Jane + hot H stories, he’s physically attracted because the author said so), seems like he is more attracted to her for her blood than her, because of their blood bond.
He even said he found her plain and anything spectacular to look at, “Her pouting lips were perhaps the most pleasing of her features to look at—plump and pursed���but they couldn’t save the rest of her appearance.”
“I’d heard they were great beauties of their race, but I couldn’t see it in Gemma/h”
“The ferocity with which hunger had gnawed at me was surprising, considering looking at her made me feel vaguely nauseous.”
They had lots of sex, but he only started desiring her after realizing that she was his fated mate after a feeding, before this, he didn’t feel any attraction to her,🤦🏼♀️
-H is a rich and powerful vampire asshole, or a mosquito, since he can fly?😂
He’s a compete douchbag though to the poor h, who made the ultimate sacrifice for her ungrateful family. I really liked her, and hated her family and him in the beginning.
Other wise a decent Alien book.
Edit, giving this book another star because for once, the h was a strong AF woman, and not a doormat.
January 5, 2023
Tropes:
~legit enemies to lovers
~arranged marriage (heroine is bought by hero)
~revenge
~royalty
~monstrous alien hero (almost like a vampire mixed with a gargoyle, and he also has a berserker mode)
~size difference 🍆
~biting/feeding kink 🩸
~knotting 🥵
My first 5⭐️ read of 2023!! I can’t believe this is my first time reading a Zoey Draven book, but I can tell you it won’t be my last! I’m about to dive headfirst into her backlist, because this gave me soooo much of what I look for in an alien romance!
We have a scary af looking hero who is a bit villainous at the beginning, and acts as terrifying as he looks (which can be so hard to find in the swarm of scary-looking heroes who act like instant cinnamon rolls). This is also an ACTUAL enemies to lovers in the beginning, with the hero set on revenge against the heroine’s father for a reason we don’t fully learn the details of until pretty far into the novel. But when we did learn why he haaaates her father, his actions throughout the book made so much sense.
Also, the chemistry between these two was off the charts and the smut was 🔥 I loved that we got a lot of build up that made this feel almost like a slow burn, even though there were plenty of bite-induced orgasms leading up to it 😏
Now excuse me while I go lament over the fact that vampire/gargoyle/berserker alien men don’t actually exist to buy me as their wife and whisk me away to a far-off planet. Le sigh 😢
~legit enemies to lovers
~arranged marriage (heroine is bought by hero)
~revenge
~royalty
~monstrous alien hero (almost like a vampire mixed with a gargoyle, and he also has a berserker mode)
~size difference 🍆
~biting/feeding kink 🩸
~knotting 🥵
My first 5⭐️ read of 2023!! I can’t believe this is my first time reading a Zoey Draven book, but I can tell you it won’t be my last! I’m about to dive headfirst into her backlist, because this gave me soooo much of what I look for in an alien romance!
We have a scary af looking hero who is a bit villainous at the beginning, and acts as terrifying as he looks (which can be so hard to find in the swarm of scary-looking heroes who act like instant cinnamon rolls). This is also an ACTUAL enemies to lovers in the beginning, with the hero set on revenge against the heroine’s father for a reason we don’t fully learn the details of until pretty far into the novel. But when we did learn why he haaaates her father, his actions throughout the book made so much sense.
Also, the chemistry between these two was off the charts and the smut was 🔥 I loved that we got a lot of build up that made this feel almost like a slow burn, even though there were plenty of bite-induced orgasms leading up to it 😏
Now excuse me while I go lament over the fact that vampire/gargoyle/berserker alien men don’t actually exist to buy me as their wife and whisk me away to a far-off planet. Le sigh 😢
May 10, 2025
I really like this author and after enjoying her Horde King series… I snatched this up. She’s excellent with world building and character growth, but damn she takes her time getting things moving along which can be torture for my impatient reading brain.
The blurb sets this up, Gemma is a human with a dead beat/gambling father that has put their family in huge debt. Desperate, she agrees to an arranged marriage with Azur, a prince of sorts for the Kylorr, a berserker/vampy-ish alien race. I went into this blind and skip this spoiler if you want the same, but his reasoning is revealed within the first few chapters which sets the tone of the book…..
Bottom Line- Strong start to her new series. I liked it and didn’t skim, but I struggled some in the first half. I’m not a big fan of taking the scenic route to relationships (unless they’re spending loads of time together) and started getting restless when these two got stuck in the dancing around each other holding pattern... but things pick up, and I'll definitely continue with the series. It's free to read with KU.
The blurb sets this up, Gemma is a human with a dead beat/gambling father that has put their family in huge debt. Desperate, she agrees to an arranged marriage with Azur, a prince of sorts for the Kylorr, a berserker/vampy-ish alien race. I went into this blind and skip this spoiler if you want the same, but his reasoning is revealed within the first few chapters which sets the tone of the book…..
Bottom Line- Strong start to her new series. I liked it and didn’t skim, but I struggled some in the first half. I’m not a big fan of taking the scenic route to relationships (unless they’re spending loads of time together) and started getting restless when these two got stuck in the dancing around each other holding pattern... but things pick up, and I'll definitely continue with the series. It's free to read with KU.
June 29, 2024
4.5☆ Grumpy alien vampire king revenge-marries his enemy's daughter and acts like a real dick about it.
Yay for Elle Jae and Christina recs! While this started a little rough for me, I enjoyed the ride and will be getting on the next one. At first I wasn't so sure about Azur, but he won me over hard. It's never all that fun for me when a hero is intentionally scaring the heroine; feels like a bully romance. But as Azur gets to know poor, selfless, hardworking Gemma as more than her father's daughter, he comes to understand, respect, and value her beyond their fated bloodmate connection. And obviously becomes a huge softie, totally obsessed and possessive and all that good stuff. 🥰🌶️
Strong, adaptable Gemma was a likable heroine, though I wish she hadn't compared her looks to her sisters' quite so often and hidden her burdens from them—Azur taking them on was a relief. But when she finds out about what happened between their families and Azur’s motivations, ZD really made me feel her horror and devastation. That was heartbreaking. 🥺 Her father was a right bastard; while he sadly lost his wife and struggled with addiction, I couldn't forgive him because he made no effort whatsoever to get help, even for his daughters' sake, and essentially sold one of them to finance his activities. 🤬
The book deals with some heavier topics like alcohol and gambling addiction, a parent’s mental illness and suicide, and holding people accountable for war crimes. But there’s also healing and a pretty sweet love story; the action and tension and sacrifices come to fruition in a way that makes the drama feel worth it. ❤️🩹 There are some interesting side characters as well as a background subplot of looming war and international trade spies that continue into Book 2. And let's not forget the plentiful vampire-alien-shifterish smut, complete with claiming bites, knottiness, and sex-venom. 🤭 🪢 🤭🩸
Yay for Elle Jae and Christina recs! While this started a little rough for me, I enjoyed the ride and will be getting on the next one. At first I wasn't so sure about Azur, but he won me over hard. It's never all that fun for me when a hero is intentionally scaring the heroine; feels like a bully romance. But as Azur gets to know poor, selfless, hardworking Gemma as more than her father's daughter, he comes to understand, respect, and value her beyond their fated bloodmate connection. And obviously becomes a huge softie, totally obsessed and possessive and all that good stuff. 🥰🌶️
Strong, adaptable Gemma was a likable heroine, though I wish she hadn't compared her looks to her sisters' quite so often and hidden her burdens from them—Azur taking them on was a relief. But when she finds out about what happened between their families and Azur’s motivations, ZD really made me feel her horror and devastation. That was heartbreaking. 🥺 Her father was a right bastard; while he sadly lost his wife and struggled with addiction, I couldn't forgive him because he made no effort whatsoever to get help, even for his daughters' sake, and essentially sold one of them to finance his activities. 🤬
The book deals with some heavier topics like alcohol and gambling addiction, a parent’s mental illness and suicide, and holding people accountable for war crimes. But there’s also healing and a pretty sweet love story; the action and tension and sacrifices come to fruition in a way that makes the drama feel worth it. ❤️🩹 There are some interesting side characters as well as a background subplot of looming war and international trade spies that continue into Book 2. And let's not forget the plentiful vampire-alien-shifterish smut, complete with claiming bites, knottiness, and sex-venom. 🤭 🪢 🤭🩸
March 8, 2025
this is TRUE enemies to lovers. the tension, the build up, the slight angst, it all just WORKED together 😭 i cannot wait to read more of zoey draven’s books! ive been SLEEPING on her 😩😩
September 4, 2023
This is actually the second time I've read this. I enjoyed it just as much as the first time. So far I've never been disappointed in a Zoey Draven book.
This was an enemies to lovers story for sure, and the sizzling slow burn was scorching hot. Wings, and fangs, and knots....yes please. Yes, yes yes yes please!!
Azur was brooding, scary, and full of secrets. Gemma was a fierce little thing determined to face, head on, whatever came her way. I love these two together. I can't wait to read the next one.
This was an enemies to lovers story for sure, and the sizzling slow burn was scorching hot. Wings, and fangs, and knots....yes please. Yes, yes yes yes please!!
Azur was brooding, scary, and full of secrets. Gemma was a fierce little thing determined to face, head on, whatever came her way. I love these two together. I can't wait to read the next one.
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