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Over the Moon #3
Quit Your Waning
Jihae is hungry for home. As the colony's first Halloween Festival approaches, Jihae becomes nostalgic for ghosts, ghouls, and goblins. Unlike in the West, South Korea's spookiest season is the dead of summer, once the humid air goes still and the shadows hang heavy in the trees and alleyways... So when she's offered the task of decorating a haunted trail, she takes the opportunity, even though it means she'll be working with the most terrifying creature in the the hellish bilong named Sizzle.
When he starts haunting her dreams, she blames it on her obsession with supernatural K-dramas. But this taboo infatuation is more than a passing phase. Once Sizzle sinks his teeth into her, she knows he'll never let go.
Sizzle is hungry for connection. Connectors, actually. Electrical wires, pistons, plasma filters, battery acid... The bilong is insatiable. At least, until he meets Jihae and everything starts to taste like soap. Though he despises the taste of flesh, Sizzle finds that Jihae's scent is the only thing that makes his mouth water. The human woman is causing his instincts to shift in unpredictable ways.
Unable to get her taste out of his senses, Sizzle does what any apex predator would do. He stalks from the shadows, hunts her scent, and plays with his food until the succulent pitter patter of her little heart makes him drool... Jihae will accept his possessive claim. And he'll make sure she likes it.
***
The Over the Moon series takes place in the Intersolar Union universe, in the human colony on Yaspur. These are lighter standalones with a touch of emotional turmoil. They can be read in any order, separate from the ISU series.
Features explicit adult scenes - mature readers only. All of my books are HEA, no cheating. Please read the content notes on my website.
Nervous about jumping into a book without some spoilers first? Reach out to me on social media if you have specific questions about any of my books so I can make your reading experience more comfortable!
When he starts haunting her dreams, she blames it on her obsession with supernatural K-dramas. But this taboo infatuation is more than a passing phase. Once Sizzle sinks his teeth into her, she knows he'll never let go.
Sizzle is hungry for connection. Connectors, actually. Electrical wires, pistons, plasma filters, battery acid... The bilong is insatiable. At least, until he meets Jihae and everything starts to taste like soap. Though he despises the taste of flesh, Sizzle finds that Jihae's scent is the only thing that makes his mouth water. The human woman is causing his instincts to shift in unpredictable ways.
Unable to get her taste out of his senses, Sizzle does what any apex predator would do. He stalks from the shadows, hunts her scent, and plays with his food until the succulent pitter patter of her little heart makes him drool... Jihae will accept his possessive claim. And he'll make sure she likes it.
***
The Over the Moon series takes place in the Intersolar Union universe, in the human colony on Yaspur. These are lighter standalones with a touch of emotional turmoil. They can be read in any order, separate from the ISU series.
Features explicit adult scenes - mature readers only. All of my books are HEA, no cheating. Please read the content notes on my website.
Nervous about jumping into a book without some spoilers first? Reach out to me on social media if you have specific questions about any of my books so I can make your reading experience more comfortable!
214 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2024
64 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
About the author
Etta Pierce
16 books307 followersI'm a hopeless academic and science fiction romance author. I write intelligent women, complicated men, and slow burn steam! My first series, the Intersolar Union Series, is ongoing with many more series and books planned for the future. Strap in for the long haul, guys, I'm here to stay and crank out some good romantic fiction!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
July 4, 2025
I was so excited for Sizzle’s book and it did NOT disappoint. He was all primal bitey chaos and I love him so much. He brought Jihae a sense of safety, belonging, and pieces of the home she missed. And lots of fun, because who doesn’t love an unhinged alien spicing things up? Jihae was an awesome MC too; kind and polite, with chronic illness (hyperthyroidism) and a love of horror. She gave Sizzle the acceptance he really needed and joy he hadn’t experienced. I adore this universe, the diverse cast, and the unique aliens.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: references to past SA and slavery, abduction (mostly off page), MMC threatens to eat other character, frequent references to MMC consuming other sentient beings, stalking and obsession, MMC marks FMC with natural oils that act as aphrodisiac without her knowledge (she is aware before any sexual touch), mild violence, symptoms of PTSD, mentions of past surgery, mention of exhuming deceased family member
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: references to past SA and slavery, abduction (mostly off page), MMC threatens to eat other character, frequent references to MMC consuming other sentient beings, stalking and obsession, MMC marks FMC with natural oils that act as aphrodisiac without her knowledge (she is aware before any sexual touch), mild violence, symptoms of PTSD, mentions of past surgery, mention of exhuming deceased family member
November 7, 2024
✨4.5 (rounded to 5 for GR)
🌶️2.75
📖~214 pages
📚Interconnected series with different main couples
🎬Sci-fi alien romance
❓Would I Recommend? YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
✏️Review:
Oh Etta Pierce, the absolute LEGACY you are creating in the sci-fi alien romance world.
Quit Your Waning: An Intersolar Alien Romance by Etta Pierce combines rich and lush sci-fi world building with a host of human and aliens alike and deeply meaningful but also pure fun romances that give the best love stories a run for their money. This book is an addition to the already immersive settings of the Intersolar Union and Over the Moon series, featuring familiar faces and fresh lore. But this time our favorite hellhound Sizzle is taking center stage as the MMC, and he’s got his sight set on a certain schoolteacher…
This was the best Halloween-day read I could’ve asked for. An obvious and festive Halloween setting, spooky vibes all around, and an expression of different ways to celebrate honoring the melting pot they’ve created on their colony. It felt like there was something to discover around every literary corner.
This also just makes a best-anytime read too 😊
What to expect/Tropes:
🧩 30+ Korean FMC
🧩 Alien colony guardian MMC (hellhound-type creature known as a bilong)
🧩 Four-legged MMC
🧩 HALLOWEEN!
🧩 Dual FMC and MMC POV
🧩 Found-family-by-circumstance-but-making-the-best-of-it
On the eve of Halloween, alien abduction survivor and current schoolteacher colonist Jihae is missing her former home, particularly nostalgic for traditions from South Korea's spookiest season. But as she takes part in the preparations for the holiday and combats her own personal cultural loneliness, Jihae finds comfort and company in the most unlikely of places: the frightening bilong Sizzle, a hellhound-type alien who protects their home as one of its – and the humans – guards.
What starts as a tentative partnership morphs into a taboo fascination on Jihae’s part, which then slowly develops into an alarming desire, as Sizzle’s own infatuation surrounds her and intertwines with her very being. Sizzle is insatiable, Jihae’s scent spiraling him into his basest mating instincts. Both struggle with their heated feelings and strong urges, pushing them closer together, a storm on the precipice of eruption. And when they finally come together… it’s lightning!
Spice:
🔥Knotting and fisting (not with a fist)
🔥Stalking/primal
🔥Sizzle has a filthy mouth on him
🔥Heat (FMC) and Nesting (MMC)
Even for seasoned alien romance lovers like me, Sizzle as an MMC might be something new for you, as it was for me (I think, I’ve read a lot of alien romance haha, but I think Sizzle is a cake-taker). He’s only mammaloid in very, VERY loose terms if at all; the rest of him is pure creature-feature monster alien all of the above. But his personality SHINES in this, and Pierce somehow makes his alien differences feel like personality quirks or unconscious habits that give insight into Sizzle’s mind frame. He’s such a well-done character, and I was rooting for him as a romance hero. Spectacular all around.
And Sizzle with Jihae was chef’s kiss. He somehow kept all his dominance and primal-ness, but also treated Jihae with equal patience, consent, and choice. Some of it did mix at times with Jihae’s heat and Sizzle’s mating instincts, but as a reader I never felt that their romance was only based in that primal instinct. Their conversations and emotional connection mattered just as much. Sizzle was just as sweet as he was spicy.
He was just the perfect counterpoint, or should I say complement, to the character of Jihae, who was endearing in her own right as well. I love her love for K-dramas, and how she didn’t compromise on air conditioning, TV, and indoor plumbing in her new nest with Sizzle. That’s MY girl.
Jihae’s medical issues and trauma from her past alien abduction were not shied away from in this book, but rather explored and addressed. Sizzle’s support in this was monumental, but he also supported Jihae in a way that was supplementary and kept Jihae at the forefront of her own choices, exemplifying her strength.
Safety:
🚩 PTSD and negative medical consequences from prior alien abduction (FMC)
🚩 FMC has hyperthyroidism and deals with symptoms of the condition (mild physical tremors, heat intolerance, etc.)
🚩 No OM/OW drama
To end this review, I want to emphasize how much I wholeheartedly recommend these series and Etta Pierce as an author, especially for all the alien romance lovers. I know I already have GR friends who know and love this series, and I just want more and more people to discover it, too.
There’s also an Etta Exclusive epilogue for this book, which apparently includes breeding kink and knotting… on my way, Etta!
🔮
Symbol Key
✨= star level, 🌶️= spice level, 📖= total pages (usually on my iPhone screen), 📚= series or standalone, 🎬= genre, 🧩= tropes/elements, 🚩= potential safety/triggers, 🔥= spice/kink elements, ⛔️= quibbles/complaints, 🔮= ending
🌶️2.75
📖~214 pages
📚Interconnected series with different main couples
🎬Sci-fi alien romance
❓Would I Recommend? YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
✏️Review:
Oh Etta Pierce, the absolute LEGACY you are creating in the sci-fi alien romance world.
Quit Your Waning: An Intersolar Alien Romance by Etta Pierce combines rich and lush sci-fi world building with a host of human and aliens alike and deeply meaningful but also pure fun romances that give the best love stories a run for their money. This book is an addition to the already immersive settings of the Intersolar Union and Over the Moon series, featuring familiar faces and fresh lore. But this time our favorite hellhound Sizzle is taking center stage as the MMC, and he’s got his sight set on a certain schoolteacher…
This was the best Halloween-day read I could’ve asked for. An obvious and festive Halloween setting, spooky vibes all around, and an expression of different ways to celebrate honoring the melting pot they’ve created on their colony. It felt like there was something to discover around every literary corner.
This also just makes a best-anytime read too 😊
What to expect/Tropes:
🧩 30+ Korean FMC
🧩 Alien colony guardian MMC (hellhound-type creature known as a bilong)
🧩 Four-legged MMC
🧩 HALLOWEEN!
🧩 Dual FMC and MMC POV
🧩 Found-family-by-circumstance-but-making-the-best-of-it
On the eve of Halloween, alien abduction survivor and current schoolteacher colonist Jihae is missing her former home, particularly nostalgic for traditions from South Korea's spookiest season. But as she takes part in the preparations for the holiday and combats her own personal cultural loneliness, Jihae finds comfort and company in the most unlikely of places: the frightening bilong Sizzle, a hellhound-type alien who protects their home as one of its – and the humans – guards.
What starts as a tentative partnership morphs into a taboo fascination on Jihae’s part, which then slowly develops into an alarming desire, as Sizzle’s own infatuation surrounds her and intertwines with her very being. Sizzle is insatiable, Jihae’s scent spiraling him into his basest mating instincts. Both struggle with their heated feelings and strong urges, pushing them closer together, a storm on the precipice of eruption. And when they finally come together… it’s lightning!
Spice:
🔥Knotting and fisting (not with a fist)
🔥Stalking/primal
🔥Sizzle has a filthy mouth on him
🔥Heat (FMC) and Nesting (MMC)
Even for seasoned alien romance lovers like me, Sizzle as an MMC might be something new for you, as it was for me (I think, I’ve read a lot of alien romance haha, but I think Sizzle is a cake-taker). He’s only mammaloid in very, VERY loose terms if at all; the rest of him is pure creature-feature monster alien all of the above. But his personality SHINES in this, and Pierce somehow makes his alien differences feel like personality quirks or unconscious habits that give insight into Sizzle’s mind frame. He’s such a well-done character, and I was rooting for him as a romance hero. Spectacular all around.
And Sizzle with Jihae was chef’s kiss. He somehow kept all his dominance and primal-ness, but also treated Jihae with equal patience, consent, and choice. Some of it did mix at times with Jihae’s heat and Sizzle’s mating instincts, but as a reader I never felt that their romance was only based in that primal instinct. Their conversations and emotional connection mattered just as much. Sizzle was just as sweet as he was spicy.
He was just the perfect counterpoint, or should I say complement, to the character of Jihae, who was endearing in her own right as well. I love her love for K-dramas, and how she didn’t compromise on air conditioning, TV, and indoor plumbing in her new nest with Sizzle. That’s MY girl.
Jihae’s medical issues and trauma from her past alien abduction were not shied away from in this book, but rather explored and addressed. Sizzle’s support in this was monumental, but he also supported Jihae in a way that was supplementary and kept Jihae at the forefront of her own choices, exemplifying her strength.
Safety:
🚩 PTSD and negative medical consequences from prior alien abduction (FMC)
🚩 FMC has hyperthyroidism and deals with symptoms of the condition (mild physical tremors, heat intolerance, etc.)
🚩 No OM/OW drama
To end this review, I want to emphasize how much I wholeheartedly recommend these series and Etta Pierce as an author, especially for all the alien romance lovers. I know I already have GR friends who know and love this series, and I just want more and more people to discover it, too.
There’s also an Etta Exclusive epilogue for this book, which apparently includes breeding kink and knotting… on my way, Etta!
🔮
Symbol Key
✨= star level, 🌶️= spice level, 📖= total pages (usually on my iPhone screen), 📚= series or standalone, 🎬= genre, 🧩= tropes/elements, 🚩= potential safety/triggers, 🔥= spice/kink elements, ⛔️= quibbles/complaints, 🔮= ending
October 16, 2024
I love this series and the one it is spun off from. I have been waiting for Sizzle's book for AGES!!
It did not disappoint. (Err...except that I am really bummed out we didn't get more after the ending)
I loved the slow build up, the little acts of service, the stalking...all of it.
OMG, if I don't see little sizzle babies sometime down the line, I don't know what I'll do lol.
The day this came out a pre-order for the next one went up, but not for until next October. Good lord I hope we don't actually have to wait a year. I already can't wait.
It did not disappoint. (Err...except that I am really bummed out we didn't get more after the ending)
I loved the slow build up, the little acts of service, the stalking...all of it.
OMG, if I don't see little sizzle babies sometime down the line, I don't know what I'll do lol.
The day this came out a pre-order for the next one went up, but not for until next October. Good lord I hope we don't actually have to wait a year. I already can't wait.
July 27, 2025
I didn't know how much I needed Sizzle's book until I read QUIT YOUR WANING! I'm so glad Pierce is giving us these companion books featuring those living in Renata. We haven't seen much of Jihae in previous books but Sizzle has been an unforgettable side character who was brought in to help protect the human colony.
I really enjoyed these two together and overall, this was a low angst read as Jihae found her purpose and passion again and Sizzle found the family he never realized he wanted. Throw in a spooky Halloween trail, an obsessed MMC, and some very unusual alien peen and this was a lot of fun!
Content Warning: PTSD from past abduction and sexual slavery
I really enjoyed these two together and overall, this was a low angst read as Jihae found her purpose and passion again and Sizzle found the family he never realized he wanted. Throw in a spooky Halloween trail, an obsessed MMC, and some very unusual alien peen and this was a lot of fun!
Content Warning: PTSD from past abduction and sexual slavery
November 20, 2024
I put off reading this one because I had read the novella. Mistake. The expansion of this story made a huge difference. More slice of life and relationship development turned this from monster smut to a compelling romance.
Sizzle is EVERYTHING.
This was a lil holiday novel, so I hope the next one gets back to the everyday politics and running of the colony. I think it will, based on who's story it will follow.
Sizzle is EVERYTHING.
This was a lil holiday novel, so I hope the next one gets back to the everyday politics and running of the colony. I think it will, based on who's story it will follow.
February 20, 2025
This wasn't horrible, but it wasn't amazing either. Even though it could be read as a standalone there were a lot of moments/things that would have been received better if I had read the previous books. Overall, okayish.
February 19, 2025
Besides this being not my thing, there were too many instances that rubbed me the wrong way. This wasn’t poorly written per se, but there was just some weird stuff that I couldn’t get past.
February 19, 2025
hmmm. 2.5 stars. feeling dubious about this one. interesting alien lore, but. some of the actual writing choices made me cringe.
February 20, 2025
More like a 2.5 not my jam but also kinda boring and uncomfy
November 18, 2024
Primal Sizzle!
This novella is the third in the Over The Moon series.
What I loved!
::Cheerful, lusty, earthy Sizzle
::Jihae and her connection to her Korean culture, and Sizzle’s loving recognition of that
::The tease and heat of their attraction
::Even with a primal chase scene the steamy scenes are 100% consensual.
Some parts of the worldbuilding were confusing, but I suspect those questions are answered in the full-length books that precede this one.
This novella is the third in the Over The Moon series.
What I loved!
::Cheerful, lusty, earthy Sizzle
::Jihae and her connection to her Korean culture, and Sizzle’s loving recognition of that
::The tease and heat of their attraction
::Even with a primal chase scene the steamy scenes are 100% consensual.
Some parts of the worldbuilding were confusing, but I suspect those questions are answered in the full-length books that precede this one.
October 19, 2024
4 perfect for Halloween stars ⭐️
If you read the novella this has been edited massively and is that much better for it. Characters and relationships have been given room to breathe and explore and Sizzle especially really benefitted from all of the changes.
This is very much a non-human romance and it leans heavily into this trope so reader beware 🤣
Really enjoyed!
(You should read the others in the series to understand the world and relationships up to this point)
If you read the novella this has been edited massively and is that much better for it. Characters and relationships have been given room to breathe and explore and Sizzle especially really benefitted from all of the changes.
This is very much a non-human romance and it leans heavily into this trope so reader beware 🤣
Really enjoyed!
(You should read the others in the series to understand the world and relationships up to this point)
October 21, 2024
Alien romance with cozy, small town vibes celebrating a "human holiday" on another planet. This series features side characters from Pierce’s Intersolar Union series getting their own stories of living and loving in the colony for the humans rescued in that series.
If you want an “alien who looks alien” love interest, this delivers. The enigmatic Sizzle walks on four legs, enjoys making Jihae blush with his boldness, and calls her "morsel". He's on the hunt for her. Maybe has some plans of nesting and putting his very long tongue to good use. Definitely very covetous of Jihae if she says yes.
Post abduction and rescue, Jihae is striving to make a life for herself on this new planet teaching the children of the human colony, hoping to keep her Korean language alive, and longing for a piece of home. She loves horror movies and Sizzle is exactly her kind of monster.
If you want an “alien who looks alien” love interest, this delivers. The enigmatic Sizzle walks on four legs, enjoys making Jihae blush with his boldness, and calls her "morsel". He's on the hunt for her. Maybe has some plans of nesting and putting his very long tongue to good use. Definitely very covetous of Jihae if she says yes.
Post abduction and rescue, Jihae is striving to make a life for herself on this new planet teaching the children of the human colony, hoping to keep her Korean language alive, and longing for a piece of home. She loves horror movies and Sizzle is exactly her kind of monster.
October 18, 2024
Quit Your Waning was an instant favorite 😍
Sizzle has been such a beloved side character and his book was everything I hoped it would be. My monster loving self just adores Sizzle and his chaotic nature. Jihae was so sweet and the perfect match for Sizzle. I love the theme of acceptance this series has.
This latest slice-of-life standalone installment in the Over the Moon series is the perfect read for October 🎃
🎃 a halloween festival
🎃 monster alien mmc/ human
🎃 unique alien anatomy
🎃 heat & rutting
🎃 so much teeth
🎃 primal chasing
🎃 nesting
ARC provided by author. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sizzle has been such a beloved side character and his book was everything I hoped it would be. My monster loving self just adores Sizzle and his chaotic nature. Jihae was so sweet and the perfect match for Sizzle. I love the theme of acceptance this series has.
This latest slice-of-life standalone installment in the Over the Moon series is the perfect read for October 🎃
🎃 a halloween festival
🎃 monster alien mmc/ human
🎃 unique alien anatomy
🎃 heat & rutting
🎃 so much teeth
🎃 primal chasing
🎃 nesting
ARC provided by author. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 2, 2026
I think this is my favorite in by Etta Pierce so far. I'm slightly biased since Sizzle is my favorite character and this was my most anticipated read.
This was amazing. I read the original novella a while back and I already knew I would love the full book, and I'm so excited that it lived up to my expectations!
The sexual tension? Amazing.
This felt forbidden and feral and I loved it. Sizzle is very obsessive and possessive. He wants to protect his Morsel and keep her and maybe even eat her (Literally? Metaphorically?? Maybe both??). I just loved this so so much 😭
Only downside is that I wanted MORE! I am greedy, like Sizzle, and I need at least another 100...200 pages 😂
-------
Reread! Still excellent as ever, favorite of the series. Etta is amazing at writing mmcs who yearn for their women. Sizzle is hungry in all the best ways 😭
------
Reread. Who would I be if I didn't read this at least once a year?
This was amazing. I read the original novella a while back and I already knew I would love the full book, and I'm so excited that it lived up to my expectations!
The sexual tension? Amazing.
This felt forbidden and feral and I loved it. Sizzle is very obsessive and possessive. He wants to protect his Morsel and keep her and maybe even eat her (Literally? Metaphorically?? Maybe both??). I just loved this so so much 😭
Only downside is that I wanted MORE! I am greedy, like Sizzle, and I need at least another 100...200 pages 😂
-------
Reread! Still excellent as ever, favorite of the series. Etta is amazing at writing mmcs who yearn for their women. Sizzle is hungry in all the best ways 😭
------
Reread. Who would I be if I didn't read this at least once a year?
October 28, 2024
Ok I did not expect to love this one as much as I did because I was in a bit of a funk despite adoring the other books.
I was not expecting Sizzle to be a romantic lead let alone as fantastic as a lead he was. I loved his character in the first book, and I adored him even more throughout this book.
Perfect match for Jihae, and I love how diverse and rich all the experiences and inner worlds of the characters are. Also loved remembering the other characters as they popped up here and there.
I was not expecting Sizzle to be a romantic lead let alone as fantastic as a lead he was. I loved his character in the first book, and I adored him even more throughout this book.
Perfect match for Jihae, and I love how diverse and rich all the experiences and inner worlds of the characters are. Also loved remembering the other characters as they popped up here and there.
October 6, 2025
I really enjoyed Sizzle in the other books so getting to read his story (set during Halloween) was a wonderful start to the spooky season.
Both main characters were well done and the cozy/spooky vibes were perfect. I liked the inclusion of Korean horror and legends. Sizzle is also more monstrous than the other aliens and his creative anatomy was very cool!
The first half was the best but the end was more spotty in quality with the last chapter cutting off the story abruptly. I think this book may have suffered from being a novella/short story that was expanded on.
Both main characters were well done and the cozy/spooky vibes were perfect. I liked the inclusion of Korean horror and legends. Sizzle is also more monstrous than the other aliens and his creative anatomy was very cool!
The first half was the best but the end was more spotty in quality with the last chapter cutting off the story abruptly. I think this book may have suffered from being a novella/short story that was expanded on.
October 15, 2024
I think this was bit beastly for me but I still liked Jihae and Sizzle on their own. Not sure I entirely got the romance part though. Nevertheless, I cannot wait for Etta’s next book 😌
May 7, 2025
1000000000000/10
Sizzle, omfgggg. Had me sceeaminggggggggggg into my pillow. There isn’t a thing Etta writes that I don’t love but this was my favorite so far in the Over the Moon series. I am so obsessed with this man? Creature? Alien? Bilong? Feral.
Sizzle, omfgggg. Had me sceeaminggggggggggg into my pillow. There isn’t a thing Etta writes that I don’t love but this was my favorite so far in the Over the Moon series. I am so obsessed with this man? Creature? Alien? Bilong? Feral.
October 5, 2025
Original review from when it was available in the Supra Velum anthology:
Quit Your Waning by Etta Pierce - the whole reason I bought the book! Jihae and Sizzle. True monstrous romance, but also cute & sweet.
ETA: copying my reviews for the whole anthology here, since it can no longer be reviewed on GR and I don't want to lose them
Inn Trouble by Alana Khan - good start, I liked Misty and Zylus and would read more in this world. (she wins inn, possibly haunted, he fixes it up)
Halloween at the Imperial Palace by Alma Nilsson - Tulia & Kal. One of my least favorites. I felt like I was missing a backstory and the whole plot element hinges on some big misunderstandings of human culture.
Lucky Chance by Ami Wright - Lea and Chance. Don't remember a lot of details on this one, but it was cute and fluffy. Botanist hero and florist heroine?
In Parallel by A.M. Kore - told in second person POV which is not my fav. PhD student transports to another world, rescued by alien prince, horny pollen.
Craving Stardust by Ava Ross - Lordek and Iris, alien crash lands on earth
Hologram Hookup by Bebe Harper - Crystal, Oh'Karth. Mixed signals in a holographic dating sim, humans as refugees in space
Ghostship by Bella Blair - Jane and Wren. Really liked this one, a nice snippet of action from a larger, more developed world.
The Witch's Warrior by Chloe Parker - Ivarr and Circe, dystopian Michigan. Very gothy!
Defy Gravity by Cleo Rose - Atlas and Sienna. Human woman kidnapped & genetically modified then dumped on a semi-primitive world.
Bloodbound to the Space Vampire by Deysi O'Donal - Jaro & Beth. College kids go to party hosted by space vampires.
Fated to the Lost Warrior by Erin Hale - Eloise & Zedam. Crash landing on alien planet, hero has amnesia, cute furry native animal.
Quit Your Waning by Etta Pierce - the whole reason I bought the book! Jihae and Sizzle. True monstrous romance, but also cute & sweet.
Blind Date with the Alien by Holly Hanzo - Meadow & Zaith, tavern dancer and sculptor, semi-fated mates. Meh.
Monster in the Mist by Honey Phillips - Kim & Tiva. Abducted, crash lands on abandoned planet with creepy mist (so much mist/fog in this anthology!), shared dreams. Really good, one of my favorites in the collection.
Orelia's Orc by Iona Strom - OMG such overwrought prose, like an angsty teenager. Barley skimmed this one.
Alliance with the Alien Pirate by Ivy Knox - Erin and Khatazo. Maze contestants help each other out. I liked this one.
Spiderwoman by Jade Waltz - short & spicy-ish. Human playboy meets sexy spiderwoman
Tricks & Screams by Kahaula - orgy time! Lisi and three males, raunchy Halloween festival, lots of worldbuilding rules.
Savage Mist: Arden by Kassie Keegan - author warned about her love of Capitalization and Boy does She ever Love them and Possibly Overuse them. So much info-dumping to start and I absolutely laughed out loud at Lio Nels and Lio Nesses. Thundercats go! Reverse harem/why choose with two humans and two lion aliens
Mist a Trick by Latrexa Nova - human woman & a bunch of nanobots.
The Aelyzaen by Marlow Roy - Agata and Tethys. Human woman with hybrid child, alien historian/researcher. Doin' it for science.
Midnight Mist by Michele Mills - human woman & alien miner male. I read the first in this series and was meh on it, thought this setting seemed familiar but didn't remember it until the very end.
Devil in the Details by Nancey Cummings - Zelda & Malgraxon, a demon/alien. Summoning gone wrong slash right, cozy heist vibes.
Bride of the Hallow King by Olivia Riley - colonists offer sacrifice to local "god", secret radio talks, monster creatures in the woods.
The Twelve Nights of Halloheen by RK Munin - established human colonists with mashed up traditions, sweet scaled hero, part of a series.
Himbos and Hormones by Rowan Merrick - Half-alien heroine, space werewolf hero, omegaverse style.
Argurma Monster by S.J. Sanders - cyborg heros, scientist heroine, time jump? I skimmed the first part of this but it got interesting when they ran into space zombies.
Destiny's Mate by Trish Heinrich - Antony & Thalia, friends with benefits who become more. Great world-building, would like to read the rest of this series.
Rescued by My Brother's Best Friend by V.C. Lancaster - title says it all! Not the biggest fan of high school/college age protagonists, but this was done well. Human settlers and werewolf/anubis like natives. More sex pollen!
Blessings of Violence by Vera Valentine and J.L. Logosz - short and weird, but good. Cocoon alien and deer alien, on a mishmash of ships welded together for make an underground fighting ring.
Breaking the Alien Love Curse by Veronica Scott - just like the title says. Cute, space magic vibes, mutual pining.
Alien's Trick or Treat by Vicky Holt - set on Earth in the 1950s, "Martians" come to small town America. Maybe a hair too progressive to be believable, but cute and cozy.
Quit Your Waning by Etta Pierce - the whole reason I bought the book! Jihae and Sizzle. True monstrous romance, but also cute & sweet.
ETA: copying my reviews for the whole anthology here, since it can no longer be reviewed on GR and I don't want to lose them
Inn Trouble by Alana Khan - good start, I liked Misty and Zylus and would read more in this world. (she wins inn, possibly haunted, he fixes it up)
Halloween at the Imperial Palace by Alma Nilsson - Tulia & Kal. One of my least favorites. I felt like I was missing a backstory and the whole plot element hinges on some big misunderstandings of human culture.
Lucky Chance by Ami Wright - Lea and Chance. Don't remember a lot of details on this one, but it was cute and fluffy. Botanist hero and florist heroine?
In Parallel by A.M. Kore - told in second person POV which is not my fav. PhD student transports to another world, rescued by alien prince, horny pollen.
Craving Stardust by Ava Ross - Lordek and Iris, alien crash lands on earth
Hologram Hookup by Bebe Harper - Crystal, Oh'Karth. Mixed signals in a holographic dating sim, humans as refugees in space
Ghostship by Bella Blair - Jane and Wren. Really liked this one, a nice snippet of action from a larger, more developed world.
The Witch's Warrior by Chloe Parker - Ivarr and Circe, dystopian Michigan. Very gothy!
Defy Gravity by Cleo Rose - Atlas and Sienna. Human woman kidnapped & genetically modified then dumped on a semi-primitive world.
Bloodbound to the Space Vampire by Deysi O'Donal - Jaro & Beth. College kids go to party hosted by space vampires.
Fated to the Lost Warrior by Erin Hale - Eloise & Zedam. Crash landing on alien planet, hero has amnesia, cute furry native animal.
Quit Your Waning by Etta Pierce - the whole reason I bought the book! Jihae and Sizzle. True monstrous romance, but also cute & sweet.
Blind Date with the Alien by Holly Hanzo - Meadow & Zaith, tavern dancer and sculptor, semi-fated mates. Meh.
Monster in the Mist by Honey Phillips - Kim & Tiva. Abducted, crash lands on abandoned planet with creepy mist (so much mist/fog in this anthology!), shared dreams. Really good, one of my favorites in the collection.
Orelia's Orc by Iona Strom - OMG such overwrought prose, like an angsty teenager. Barley skimmed this one.
Alliance with the Alien Pirate by Ivy Knox - Erin and Khatazo. Maze contestants help each other out. I liked this one.
Spiderwoman by Jade Waltz - short & spicy-ish. Human playboy meets sexy spiderwoman
Tricks & Screams by Kahaula - orgy time! Lisi and three males, raunchy Halloween festival, lots of worldbuilding rules.
Savage Mist: Arden by Kassie Keegan - author warned about her love of Capitalization and Boy does She ever Love them and Possibly Overuse them. So much info-dumping to start and I absolutely laughed out loud at Lio Nels and Lio Nesses. Thundercats go! Reverse harem/why choose with two humans and two lion aliens
Mist a Trick by Latrexa Nova - human woman & a bunch of nanobots.
The Aelyzaen by Marlow Roy - Agata and Tethys. Human woman with hybrid child, alien historian/researcher. Doin' it for science.
Midnight Mist by Michele Mills - human woman & alien miner male. I read the first in this series and was meh on it, thought this setting seemed familiar but didn't remember it until the very end.
Devil in the Details by Nancey Cummings - Zelda & Malgraxon, a demon/alien. Summoning gone wrong slash right, cozy heist vibes.
Bride of the Hallow King by Olivia Riley - colonists offer sacrifice to local "god", secret radio talks, monster creatures in the woods.
The Twelve Nights of Halloheen by RK Munin - established human colonists with mashed up traditions, sweet scaled hero, part of a series.
Himbos and Hormones by Rowan Merrick - Half-alien heroine, space werewolf hero, omegaverse style.
Argurma Monster by S.J. Sanders - cyborg heros, scientist heroine, time jump? I skimmed the first part of this but it got interesting when they ran into space zombies.
Destiny's Mate by Trish Heinrich - Antony & Thalia, friends with benefits who become more. Great world-building, would like to read the rest of this series.
Rescued by My Brother's Best Friend by V.C. Lancaster - title says it all! Not the biggest fan of high school/college age protagonists, but this was done well. Human settlers and werewolf/anubis like natives. More sex pollen!
Blessings of Violence by Vera Valentine and J.L. Logosz - short and weird, but good. Cocoon alien and deer alien, on a mishmash of ships welded together for make an underground fighting ring.
Breaking the Alien Love Curse by Veronica Scott - just like the title says. Cute, space magic vibes, mutual pining.
Alien's Trick or Treat by Vicky Holt - set on Earth in the 1950s, "Martians" come to small town America. Maybe a hair too progressive to be believable, but cute and cozy.
October 21, 2024
Quit your Waning is the 3rd Novella in this series by Etta Pierce. It is set in the InterSolar Union (ISU) universe. You don’t need to read the prior books in this series to enjoy this one. If you can though, I highly recommend it as there are characters in this book that also appeared in the prior ones. Reading them would provide more backstory and background on the types of alien species living together on this Moon.
Yaspur, a tropical moon in orbit around a water planet is the setting of the book. The moon is host to a group of human refugees rescued from illegal slavery by unsavory aliens. These humans were abducted from earth, and as they’ve been “enlightened “ to the existence of aliens, the ISU has sheltered them on this moon as a refuge.
The human’s colony named Renata has a consistent tropical climate. That has made it difficult for humans to judge “seasons” as they did on earth. In an effort to get everyone together, the diverse group of humans have been sharing similar traditions with one another. This book centers upon Halloween Festival which for Koreans was traditionally found in the summer (~July) while Americans traditionally celebrated it in late October.
Jihae, a female Korean teacher at the school, loves the spooky holidays. She enjoys watching old Korean horror movie classics In Korea, Jihae was a talented graphic artist. Her artistic talents lead her to be put in charge of decorating the haunted trail. Lacking a decorating partner, the security guard Sizzle volunteers to help her. Sizzle is a distinctly scary looking alien, some might even say monster. He is a species called bilong which are like Komodo dragons but described with “thousand-tooth grins, which unzip in a Y-shape down their necks and they can and will eat anything”. They are feared by everyone, but for some reason Jihae feels more secure with Sizzle than scared. They work closely together to decorate the trail while also getting to know each other.
This is not a traditional hearts and flowers romance. However, despite Sizzle's monster-like exterior, he is a thoughtful and dare I say “gentlemanly” male while trying to “woo” Jihae. Sizzle is also sensitive to the abduction and cruel sexual slavery that Jihae experienced. Now, don’t get me wrong, there are definitely hot and spicy scenes, but there is a slow burn build up to them becoming a couple.
I cannot recommend this book enough. I’d like to emphasize the exquisite attention to detail that Etta Pierce shows in her writing with respect to not only the unique world building/universe but also to the aliens’ features/anatomy that inhabit it. This extends towards her mindfulness to the culture, food favorites (jjajangmyeon) and ethnicity of the main female character. This same detail is showcased in all her books, and in my humble opinion, you should put Etta Pierce books on your Must Read Immediately list. Although I read an advanced copy of this book, I purchased my own copy.
Yaspur, a tropical moon in orbit around a water planet is the setting of the book. The moon is host to a group of human refugees rescued from illegal slavery by unsavory aliens. These humans were abducted from earth, and as they’ve been “enlightened “ to the existence of aliens, the ISU has sheltered them on this moon as a refuge.
The human’s colony named Renata has a consistent tropical climate. That has made it difficult for humans to judge “seasons” as they did on earth. In an effort to get everyone together, the diverse group of humans have been sharing similar traditions with one another. This book centers upon Halloween Festival which for Koreans was traditionally found in the summer (~July) while Americans traditionally celebrated it in late October.
Jihae, a female Korean teacher at the school, loves the spooky holidays. She enjoys watching old Korean horror movie classics In Korea, Jihae was a talented graphic artist. Her artistic talents lead her to be put in charge of decorating the haunted trail. Lacking a decorating partner, the security guard Sizzle volunteers to help her. Sizzle is a distinctly scary looking alien, some might even say monster. He is a species called bilong which are like Komodo dragons but described with “thousand-tooth grins, which unzip in a Y-shape down their necks and they can and will eat anything”. They are feared by everyone, but for some reason Jihae feels more secure with Sizzle than scared. They work closely together to decorate the trail while also getting to know each other.
This is not a traditional hearts and flowers romance. However, despite Sizzle's monster-like exterior, he is a thoughtful and dare I say “gentlemanly” male while trying to “woo” Jihae. Sizzle is also sensitive to the abduction and cruel sexual slavery that Jihae experienced. Now, don’t get me wrong, there are definitely hot and spicy scenes, but there is a slow burn build up to them becoming a couple.
I cannot recommend this book enough. I’d like to emphasize the exquisite attention to detail that Etta Pierce shows in her writing with respect to not only the unique world building/universe but also to the aliens’ features/anatomy that inhabit it. This extends towards her mindfulness to the culture, food favorites (jjajangmyeon) and ethnicity of the main female character. This same detail is showcased in all her books, and in my humble opinion, you should put Etta Pierce books on your Must Read Immediately list. Although I read an advanced copy of this book, I purchased my own copy.
October 13, 2024
4.5 stars. Jihae, the female teacher lead, is a rescued human slave currently living in a refuge on a moon in another place. She was abducted after surgery to fix her hyperthyroidism and has never fully recovered, struggling with many symptoms, though the worst were alleviated. She also struggles with PTSD, though she’s an integrated part of the settlement and enjoys her job.
Sizzle, the male alien monster lead, eats any and every thing, though he tends to prefer things humans regard as inedible. He initially treated humans as amusing prey but now regards them as his charges and acts as security for them, especially the “pups”, even though they remain largely afraid of him.
When celebrating Halloween is proposed, Jihae is excited - Halloween has always been special to her and the humid weather reminds of Halloween in her South Korean home. As she joins in the decorating, Sizzle catches her scent and is intrigued. But, whilst he desperately wants to keep his human, surely she wouldn’t want a monster…though Jihae does say he makes her feel safe.
This story is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and spooky, slow burn, alien monster/human romance. I enjoyed how Jihae actively enjoyed the fear Sizzle sometimes inspired in her contrasted against the safety his presence provided her. I enjoyed the way Sizzle ensured that Jihae had enough information to make a truly informed decision about becoming his mate, even though his instincts called him to claim her immediately. I enjoyed the relationship building between them and the individual character development. I adored the way Sizzle supported Jihae to take steps to improve her health. I enjoyed his surprise that Jihae would want him as much as he wanted her. I appreciated the careful concern and support from secondary characters. I enjoyed seeing two characters who felt isolated in the group finding happiness and peace together.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Sizzle, the male alien monster lead, eats any and every thing, though he tends to prefer things humans regard as inedible. He initially treated humans as amusing prey but now regards them as his charges and acts as security for them, especially the “pups”, even though they remain largely afraid of him.
When celebrating Halloween is proposed, Jihae is excited - Halloween has always been special to her and the humid weather reminds of Halloween in her South Korean home. As she joins in the decorating, Sizzle catches her scent and is intrigued. But, whilst he desperately wants to keep his human, surely she wouldn’t want a monster…though Jihae does say he makes her feel safe.
This story is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and spooky, slow burn, alien monster/human romance. I enjoyed how Jihae actively enjoyed the fear Sizzle sometimes inspired in her contrasted against the safety his presence provided her. I enjoyed the way Sizzle ensured that Jihae had enough information to make a truly informed decision about becoming his mate, even though his instincts called him to claim her immediately. I enjoyed the relationship building between them and the individual character development. I adored the way Sizzle supported Jihae to take steps to improve her health. I enjoyed his surprise that Jihae would want him as much as he wanted her. I appreciated the careful concern and support from secondary characters. I enjoyed seeing two characters who felt isolated in the group finding happiness and peace together.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
October 13, 2024
Series: Over the Moon #3
Rating:4 stars - It was really good
FYI, a novella version of this story was in the Supra Velum anthology.
Jihae misses her home and as the colony’s first Halloween Festival approaches she finds herself nostalgic for ghosts, ghouls, and goblins. She volunteers to help with the festival and finds herself working on decorating the haunted trail, which means she will also be working with the terrifying creature named Sizzle. But Sizzle isn’t a danger to her and she quickly finds herself craving him and their time together.
Like all of Pierce’s stories, this was sweet and steamy. Sizzle has been the fierce and dangerous Bilong in the Intersolar Union series and now we finally get to see him fall for someone. Sizzle is just a fascinating creature and I loved getting to learn about him and his kind. Bilong’s mating practices were a bit of a surprise but I found myself loving him nesting and trying to eat anything that had Jihae’s scent on it. I especially loved the negotiation on clothes.
“I am overly possessive, obsessive. I will covet you if you let me. What is that animal of human legend… a drahgun? I will destroy civilizations to keep you once I get a taste, Jihae, and that’s not an exaggeration.”
Jihae and Sizzle’s relationship was intense and sweet but I love that Sizzle courted her and flirted with her so much. He was the king of innuendos during their Halloween decorating and it was fun. I just really love that he took his time with her and made sure she knew what she was getting into. Jihae was a sweet woman who quickly found herself falling for the fearsome monster. I liked her a lot and think she was a great partner for Sizzle.
Overall, this was another wonderful romance for this series. I can’t wait to see more of Sizzle and Jihae in future books or see who will fall next.
TW: PTSD; human trafficking; Jihae has tremors from a hyperthyroidism;
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
Rating:4 stars - It was really good
FYI, a novella version of this story was in the Supra Velum anthology.
Jihae misses her home and as the colony’s first Halloween Festival approaches she finds herself nostalgic for ghosts, ghouls, and goblins. She volunteers to help with the festival and finds herself working on decorating the haunted trail, which means she will also be working with the terrifying creature named Sizzle. But Sizzle isn’t a danger to her and she quickly finds herself craving him and their time together.
Like all of Pierce’s stories, this was sweet and steamy. Sizzle has been the fierce and dangerous Bilong in the Intersolar Union series and now we finally get to see him fall for someone. Sizzle is just a fascinating creature and I loved getting to learn about him and his kind. Bilong’s mating practices were a bit of a surprise but I found myself loving him nesting and trying to eat anything that had Jihae’s scent on it. I especially loved the negotiation on clothes.
“I am overly possessive, obsessive. I will covet you if you let me. What is that animal of human legend… a drahgun? I will destroy civilizations to keep you once I get a taste, Jihae, and that’s not an exaggeration.”
Jihae and Sizzle’s relationship was intense and sweet but I love that Sizzle courted her and flirted with her so much. He was the king of innuendos during their Halloween decorating and it was fun. I just really love that he took his time with her and made sure she knew what she was getting into. Jihae was a sweet woman who quickly found herself falling for the fearsome monster. I liked her a lot and think she was a great partner for Sizzle.
Overall, this was another wonderful romance for this series. I can’t wait to see more of Sizzle and Jihae in future books or see who will fall next.
TW: PTSD; human trafficking; Jihae has tremors from a hyperthyroidism;
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
October 27, 2024
Long time Etta Pierce fan her, I have read every story and greatly anticipated every new release. This was not a let down in any regard. Starting out as a short story in a previous charity anthology, Etta expanded upon the characters, adding another layer on the FMC Jihae in the form of a thyroid condition that has heavily impacted and disrupted her lifestyle, hopes and dreams in a very real way that even alien abduction does not compare.
This was a story of .. Acceptance I think? In making the best of your own situation, in accepting, honoring but ultimately letting go of things from the past that are gone but not forgotten. In seeing someone for more than just what they appear on the outside... in the literal sense as Sizzle is for all intents and purposes a monster who has adopted this human colony like pets.
For the most part, despite having read this book previously as a short story, there were very few times I felt like it was a total retread of the past work. No feelings of, wow I have definitely read these exact words in this same sequence before. If I were to take a few points away from this version, it would be that the first half of it felt solid to me, where as some of the stuff in the second half just didn't feel as carefully handled or expanded. There was a slight increase in pace here from this first half, and I felt like I wanted MORE time with the story. It felt like the book could have stayed for heck, another 100 pages and I would have been all the happier.
This is not to diminish the work in any way, but just to illustrate how deeply Jihae and Sizzles story made me want to sit and stay with them for a while. I devoured this title then spent hours on a fanart painting for the couple because I just wanted to give something of myself to this series and author.
If this is your first look at this series, I implore you to just say screw it and grab the first books. They are all stand alone[ish] but DO build upon each other. The journey is worth it, the characters and the writing are WORTH it.
I cannot wait for the next adventure.
This was a story of .. Acceptance I think? In making the best of your own situation, in accepting, honoring but ultimately letting go of things from the past that are gone but not forgotten. In seeing someone for more than just what they appear on the outside... in the literal sense as Sizzle is for all intents and purposes a monster who has adopted this human colony like pets.
For the most part, despite having read this book previously as a short story, there were very few times I felt like it was a total retread of the past work. No feelings of, wow I have definitely read these exact words in this same sequence before. If I were to take a few points away from this version, it would be that the first half of it felt solid to me, where as some of the stuff in the second half just didn't feel as carefully handled or expanded. There was a slight increase in pace here from this first half, and I felt like I wanted MORE time with the story. It felt like the book could have stayed for heck, another 100 pages and I would have been all the happier.
This is not to diminish the work in any way, but just to illustrate how deeply Jihae and Sizzles story made me want to sit and stay with them for a while. I devoured this title then spent hours on a fanart painting for the couple because I just wanted to give something of myself to this series and author.
If this is your first look at this series, I implore you to just say screw it and grab the first books. They are all stand alone[ish] but DO build upon each other. The journey is worth it, the characters and the writing are WORTH it.
I cannot wait for the next adventure.
October 24, 2024
Fantastic!
It was really great, sweet, dark, spooky, and spicy. Toy play always is a big plus in my book. Just because he has the equipment doesn't mean that you can't have "extra" fun. I did expect just a wee bit more stalking, and it would have been awesome to have her apartment on the bottom floor so he could scare her (and other things 😏) at night. However, it turned out, while she needed a tiny bit to get used to how menacing he was up close, she was pretty much a straight up monster lover right from the start. She never needed any convincing from him. I did think that she was already ready to have kids, being so hurt over her most recent "loss". So the need of "birth control" was a bit surprising. I was expecting those 6 pups 🤭
I balled my eyes out when "someone" left to be with another (not romantic relationship, you'll see) and even though there was a continuous family game night thing, having been together so long was heartbreaking. I didn't like that part one bit. Of course, it was also heartbreaking for her friend to have lost her own family, still... I know, I know, now she gets to make a family with sizzle, but I just felt like that "person" was so detached from her, only ever using her teacher title. 😢 Ok, I'm done with crying over that part, lol, sorry.
Another thing, I wish the finishing scene had a bit more depth to it. Yes, the chase was fantastic, and his "appendage" was fantastic, but it seemed to go by too quickly, "too easily" (I know they worked up to that point but still, I felt there should have been some resistance). Plus, he said he wanted to eat her while *cough cough* you know, and I feel like we deserve to "see" that. 😅
It was really great, sweet, dark, spooky, and spicy. Toy play always is a big plus in my book. Just because he has the equipment doesn't mean that you can't have "extra" fun. I did expect just a wee bit more stalking, and it would have been awesome to have her apartment on the bottom floor so he could scare her (and other things 😏) at night. However, it turned out, while she needed a tiny bit to get used to how menacing he was up close, she was pretty much a straight up monster lover right from the start. She never needed any convincing from him. I did think that she was already ready to have kids, being so hurt over her most recent "loss". So the need of "birth control" was a bit surprising. I was expecting those 6 pups 🤭
I balled my eyes out when "someone" left to be with another (not romantic relationship, you'll see) and even though there was a continuous family game night thing, having been together so long was heartbreaking. I didn't like that part one bit. Of course, it was also heartbreaking for her friend to have lost her own family, still... I know, I know, now she gets to make a family with sizzle, but I just felt like that "person" was so detached from her, only ever using her teacher title. 😢 Ok, I'm done with crying over that part, lol, sorry.
Another thing, I wish the finishing scene had a bit more depth to it. Yes, the chase was fantastic, and his "appendage" was fantastic, but it seemed to go by too quickly, "too easily" (I know they worked up to that point but still, I felt there should have been some resistance). Plus, he said he wanted to eat her while *cough cough* you know, and I feel like we deserve to "see" that. 😅
October 20, 2024
I loved this book! I have been waiting for Sizzle's story and it did not disappointment.
Sizzle considers all of the humans on Yaspur his pets (so cute) but he's noticed Jihae in particular. They are put together to work on creating a spooky trail for the colonies Halloween festivities and romance ensues.
I fell in love with both Jihae and Sizzle. Both characters felt so fully formed and getting more of Yaspur and other side characters made this book a delight.
Here are the things I loved:
Learning about Jihae's Korean background, her past career, and health issues.
Sizzle is an absolute flirt, he is so forward but at the same time he made sure that Jihae was taken care of and didn't take advantage of her.
Sizzle is very alien, he can walk on two legs if he wants but chooses to be on all fours most of the time. I really liked that he is so vastly different from humans and that it gave Jihae a bit of a pause but she never looked down on him or found him off-putting, more just wondered how things would work between them.
Sizzle sends Jihae some very interesting gifts and it's just another example of how he wants to take care of her.
Jihae overcoming past trauma from her abduction and dealing with long term health issues. It was wonderful to see the strength that Jihae has.
Do I have any gripes about this book...not really. I mean, other than wanting more!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Etta Pierce for the opportunity to review this book.
Sizzle considers all of the humans on Yaspur his pets (so cute) but he's noticed Jihae in particular. They are put together to work on creating a spooky trail for the colonies Halloween festivities and romance ensues.
I fell in love with both Jihae and Sizzle. Both characters felt so fully formed and getting more of Yaspur and other side characters made this book a delight.
Here are the things I loved:
Learning about Jihae's Korean background, her past career, and health issues.
Sizzle is an absolute flirt, he is so forward but at the same time he made sure that Jihae was taken care of and didn't take advantage of her.
Sizzle is very alien, he can walk on two legs if he wants but chooses to be on all fours most of the time. I really liked that he is so vastly different from humans and that it gave Jihae a bit of a pause but she never looked down on him or found him off-putting, more just wondered how things would work between them.
Sizzle sends Jihae some very interesting gifts and it's just another example of how he wants to take care of her.
Jihae overcoming past trauma from her abduction and dealing with long term health issues. It was wonderful to see the strength that Jihae has.
Do I have any gripes about this book...not really. I mean, other than wanting more!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Etta Pierce for the opportunity to review this book.
October 17, 2024
We've been waiting for Sizzle's book since the beginning of this series, and I could not be more thrilled with the story that we received!
Jihae and Sizzle's tale is an absolutely delightful, spooky, and completely monstrous romance. So many alien romance novels have MMCs that are little more than human guys with weird color skin and bizarre junk, but this is a total game changer. Sizzle is a giant beast with an unhinging maw full of razor sharp teeth, a penchant for eating carburetors, and an almost Geigeresque morphology. Despite this weirdness, he falls for Jihae, the captured Korean teacher, who is fighting to deal with her abduction related trauma and the new world she's found herself in.
This could have easily been a rote monster-f*cker story, but Pierce manages to spin a slow burn tale of two people falling in love with each other in spite of all their differences. Jihae is a complex woman working through her emotional and physical issues, but not letting them define her. She sees Sizzle as the protector that he is at heart, rather than being frightened by his nightmarish exterior. Because of this, she's not cowed by his behavior, and routinely puts him in his place - which he comes to love.
These are two people who feel like outsiders, but are also an intrinsic part of their community. They've lost something in the larger universe that they find in each other, which is one of the best themes of Pierce's work.
10/10, the perfect Halloween romance!
Jihae and Sizzle's tale is an absolutely delightful, spooky, and completely monstrous romance. So many alien romance novels have MMCs that are little more than human guys with weird color skin and bizarre junk, but this is a total game changer. Sizzle is a giant beast with an unhinging maw full of razor sharp teeth, a penchant for eating carburetors, and an almost Geigeresque morphology. Despite this weirdness, he falls for Jihae, the captured Korean teacher, who is fighting to deal with her abduction related trauma and the new world she's found herself in.
This could have easily been a rote monster-f*cker story, but Pierce manages to spin a slow burn tale of two people falling in love with each other in spite of all their differences. Jihae is a complex woman working through her emotional and physical issues, but not letting them define her. She sees Sizzle as the protector that he is at heart, rather than being frightened by his nightmarish exterior. Because of this, she's not cowed by his behavior, and routinely puts him in his place - which he comes to love.
These are two people who feel like outsiders, but are also an intrinsic part of their community. They've lost something in the larger universe that they find in each other, which is one of the best themes of Pierce's work.
10/10, the perfect Halloween romance!
May 17, 2025
I committed a cardinal sin with reading this book when I’ve only read the very first book of this universe, but I have no regrets.
Sizzle is the most literally unhinged mmc I’ve ever come across. Possessive, obsessive, protective, adoring, and a little bit feral. Well, actually… he’s very feral. The kind of feral I have wished some characters were.
It’s not easy writing an mmc that can scare and charm the fmc. So many authors miss the mark for me and go full-bully, or mean or cruel. Sizzle is none of those things, even if it would be so easy for him to be.
I only wish we could have had some character art, because it was difficult to picture what he looked like with that Y-shaped zipper mouth.
I recommend this book to everyone that loved true monster mmc’s who are besotted and unashamed.
The Korean fmc rang true for me based on friends of mine. The mix of conservative politeness mixed with a loving sentimental nature, and a fierceness that is tempered with consideration of others. Sometimes to their own detriment. A strong ethic, wicked sense of humor paired with a loyalty to loved ones. Family- even found family- is important.
Eastern female characters tend to be portrayed as just polite meek dolls. It is a disservice to the characters and a disservice to the readers. I am glad this wasn’t the case here.
I am Brazilian American, who has never seen one of us represented in romance books. Maybe one day. :)
Sizzle is the most literally unhinged mmc I’ve ever come across. Possessive, obsessive, protective, adoring, and a little bit feral. Well, actually… he’s very feral. The kind of feral I have wished some characters were.
It’s not easy writing an mmc that can scare and charm the fmc. So many authors miss the mark for me and go full-bully, or mean or cruel. Sizzle is none of those things, even if it would be so easy for him to be.
I only wish we could have had some character art, because it was difficult to picture what he looked like with that Y-shaped zipper mouth.
I recommend this book to everyone that loved true monster mmc’s who are besotted and unashamed.
The Korean fmc rang true for me based on friends of mine. The mix of conservative politeness mixed with a loving sentimental nature, and a fierceness that is tempered with consideration of others. Sometimes to their own detriment. A strong ethic, wicked sense of humor paired with a loyalty to loved ones. Family- even found family- is important.
Eastern female characters tend to be portrayed as just polite meek dolls. It is a disservice to the characters and a disservice to the readers. I am glad this wasn’t the case here.
I am Brazilian American, who has never seen one of us represented in romance books. Maybe one day. :)
October 16, 2024
Quit your Waning takes the reader on a captivating adventure with the residents of the Yaspur colony as they prepare for the upcoming Halloween holiday.
I really appreciate how the author highlights the cultural diversity of the rescued former human slaves, and in this story MFC Jihae taken from Korea and nostalgic for home confronts her loneliness with the help of Bilong, Sizzle an apex predator if there ever was one!
MMC Sizzle is quite the character and though his monstrous appearance may frighten some, and his taste in food cause chills down the spine his attraction to Jihae and hers to him is the beginning of something special.
Working closely together to set up decorations for the event their connection to each other grows stronger and steamier as Jihae begins experiencing erotic dreams that feature Sizzle while her scent is making his bifurcated mouth drool.
Can nesting be far behind?
I fell for Sizzle myself because there was a lot more beneath that exterior appearance than he let on, and his inner monologues and antics had me chuckling quite a bit.
This was a heart touching, romantic, sweet, feel good story of two lonely souls finding each other in the most unlikely of places and ways… loved it!
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really appreciate how the author highlights the cultural diversity of the rescued former human slaves, and in this story MFC Jihae taken from Korea and nostalgic for home confronts her loneliness with the help of Bilong, Sizzle an apex predator if there ever was one!
MMC Sizzle is quite the character and though his monstrous appearance may frighten some, and his taste in food cause chills down the spine his attraction to Jihae and hers to him is the beginning of something special.
Working closely together to set up decorations for the event their connection to each other grows stronger and steamier as Jihae begins experiencing erotic dreams that feature Sizzle while her scent is making his bifurcated mouth drool.
Can nesting be far behind?
I fell for Sizzle myself because there was a lot more beneath that exterior appearance than he let on, and his inner monologues and antics had me chuckling quite a bit.
This was a heart touching, romantic, sweet, feel good story of two lonely souls finding each other in the most unlikely of places and ways… loved it!
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2025
To start with, I wish I could rate this much higher because I hardcore enjoyed this book.
Etta has sucked me into her world from the very first book I picked up for it. She has managed to, yet again, give me another couple where they're my favorites. Now for those of you that have read this, you know Sizzle is on another level entirely. He can quite literally DEFINE feral with how he acts & that's literally part of the charm!
It was an absolute wild ride to see how Sizzle's world tangles with Jihae, then how they grow from there. Especially when Jihae is one of those that is still very timid and trying to recover from their recent experience with getting taken from Earth. To see how Sizzle works hard to reassure her he's not a bad guy...I couldn't get enough of it.
Not to mention all that STEAM! Man, I couldn't get enough of it!!
Though I have several favorites from this world, I do have to say Sizzle and Jihae are in my #1 slot!
I can't recommend this book enough and I eagerly wait for the next installment in this series! (Don't mind me as I climb the walls, waiting, in the meantime ;) They're so good!!!
Fantastic job, Etta!!!
Etta has sucked me into her world from the very first book I picked up for it. She has managed to, yet again, give me another couple where they're my favorites. Now for those of you that have read this, you know Sizzle is on another level entirely. He can quite literally DEFINE feral with how he acts & that's literally part of the charm!
It was an absolute wild ride to see how Sizzle's world tangles with Jihae, then how they grow from there. Especially when Jihae is one of those that is still very timid and trying to recover from their recent experience with getting taken from Earth. To see how Sizzle works hard to reassure her he's not a bad guy...I couldn't get enough of it.
Not to mention all that STEAM! Man, I couldn't get enough of it!!
Though I have several favorites from this world, I do have to say Sizzle and Jihae are in my #1 slot!
I can't recommend this book enough and I eagerly wait for the next installment in this series! (Don't mind me as I climb the walls, waiting, in the meantime ;) They're so good!!!
Fantastic job, Etta!!!
October 16, 2024
I read QYW when it was released last year in the Supra Vellum anthology. This full length novel with 20+ more chapters was worth the wait. If you’ve been curious of Sizzle since his introduction of what would it be like to take on a non humanoid alien and who is going to eat the pants off you, this is going to be the read we’ve been waiting for.
This read helped me get in the Halloween spirit as the residents of Renata get ready to spruce up the community with ghosts stories around the fire. We’re getting Sizzle’s pov and how blunt he is about what he wants will make you melt and JiHae’s pov reminds us that there are other residents still living day to day with their traumas and working towards overcoming them. Overall, I think this read isn’t the most plot driven but more of a slice of life type of story with 2 characters with a little character development. It was a fun read and the representation with Jihae and a couple other characters helped with the immersion that felt appropriate and worked quite well.
This read helped me get in the Halloween spirit as the residents of Renata get ready to spruce up the community with ghosts stories around the fire. We’re getting Sizzle’s pov and how blunt he is about what he wants will make you melt and JiHae’s pov reminds us that there are other residents still living day to day with their traumas and working towards overcoming them. Overall, I think this read isn’t the most plot driven but more of a slice of life type of story with 2 characters with a little character development. It was a fun read and the representation with Jihae and a couple other characters helped with the immersion that felt appropriate and worked quite well.
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