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Valcan Mates #1
Warrior's Captive
Previously published as Gladiator's Captive: A Rough Sci-Fi Romance by Mary Auclair
First he took me captive. Then he took me as his mate.
Since I saw him fight in the arena, I have dreamed of him at night. Dreams I blush to think about.
What I never imagined was this fearsome alien warrior carrying me off, spanking me into shameful submission, and then ravaging my virgin body as I screamed with every brutal climax.
But when my father tried to have him killed, he broke free of his chains and took me captive.
I thought I would be nothing more than a bargaining chip to secure his escape, but I was wrong.
He has claimed me as his mate.
Publisher's Note: Warrior's Captive includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.
First he took me captive. Then he took me as his mate.
Since I saw him fight in the arena, I have dreamed of him at night. Dreams I blush to think about.
What I never imagined was this fearsome alien warrior carrying me off, spanking me into shameful submission, and then ravaging my virgin body as I screamed with every brutal climax.
But when my father tried to have him killed, he broke free of his chains and took me captive.
I thought I would be nothing more than a bargaining chip to secure his escape, but I was wrong.
He has claimed me as his mate.
Publisher's Note: Warrior's Captive includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2024
404 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 8, 2025
Dominant alien gladiator!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🖤💙🩷💚
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 🙂🙁😀😉🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Serena - her father Arenius, was the governor of the desert planet Valcan where they lived. He built a huge gladiator Arena and has been holding fights to the death for more than ten years, which drew fans from all over the galaxy and it made him one of the richest and most powerful men in the galaxy. She had been away at an exclusive boarding school for years, but now she was home, she was required to attend the fights, which she hated. Today she found out that her father was planning an engagement between her and Rodrigo, an evil man that he needs to make a business deal with.
The Hero: Rager - a Muharib warrior, a former general, he was caught and made a slave in the gladiator arena. He is called the Champion of Valcan and has been the most winning gladiator in the fighting arena for the last ten years. He had a plan to escape, but when Arenius found out, he decided to host a final fight for Rager to drawn in the crowds. It was to be the fight that would Kill Rager. He was required to fight against two Agapete’s and two Madrago’s, both races were deadly in their own right, but one against four was especially deadly.
The Story: After winning the fight, Rager escaped, like he had planned and made his way to Aernius’ family apartments. He needed to have Arenius remove the implant which he and all the slaves had implanted in their forearms that would poison him if he killed Arenius. Serena walked into the room at the time, and Rager held her captive, warning Arenius to remove the implant. Though her father didn’t care enough about her to be willing to save her, if it meant giving up his hold over any of his slaves. Serena talked her father into it, because he needs her for his deal with Rodrigo, though Rager takes Serena with him to make his escape.
Rager was a harsh, dominant character that demanded Serena follow his orders, though she had done that her entire life with her father and didn’t want to spend her entire life that way, so she fought against him. I liked the characters but not everything made sense in this book. Starting with the fact that it was said at the beginning that the desert planet was so dry that water had to be brought in from other planets. So how did Rager think he could escape into the desert? Although we do find out a bit later.
The story was good, but once the two main characters became intimate, it became smut scene after smut scene and I thought it might be that way till the end, but there was much more story to be had when they got to the hidden city called Tartarus. They meet some colorful characters, like Sayk who wants Rager to become his enforcer and the human doctor Janet who doesn’t know it, but she is Sayk’s mate. Rager and Serena soon find that Tartarus is no utopia. The only thing I really didn’t like about this book was the fact that Rager (and Sayk) used spanking as a punishment for the females. I don’t mind a little spanking in a steamy romance when both people want it, but I am not fond of it when it is used as a punishment for disobedience. I don’t like when women are supposed to follow orders of a man, just because they say so.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view and was narrated in dual narration by Tieran Wilder and Mike Carnes. Tieran Wilder has a nice voice but spoke in a bit of a whiny and overdramatic way that I really didn’t like. Mike Carnes has a deep, soft voice that I liked a lot. His voice fit the character of Rager, and I could have listened to him all night.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🖤💙🩷💚
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 🙂🙁😀😉🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Serena - her father Arenius, was the governor of the desert planet Valcan where they lived. He built a huge gladiator Arena and has been holding fights to the death for more than ten years, which drew fans from all over the galaxy and it made him one of the richest and most powerful men in the galaxy. She had been away at an exclusive boarding school for years, but now she was home, she was required to attend the fights, which she hated. Today she found out that her father was planning an engagement between her and Rodrigo, an evil man that he needs to make a business deal with.
The Hero: Rager - a Muharib warrior, a former general, he was caught and made a slave in the gladiator arena. He is called the Champion of Valcan and has been the most winning gladiator in the fighting arena for the last ten years. He had a plan to escape, but when Arenius found out, he decided to host a final fight for Rager to drawn in the crowds. It was to be the fight that would Kill Rager. He was required to fight against two Agapete’s and two Madrago’s, both races were deadly in their own right, but one against four was especially deadly.
The Story: After winning the fight, Rager escaped, like he had planned and made his way to Aernius’ family apartments. He needed to have Arenius remove the implant which he and all the slaves had implanted in their forearms that would poison him if he killed Arenius. Serena walked into the room at the time, and Rager held her captive, warning Arenius to remove the implant. Though her father didn’t care enough about her to be willing to save her, if it meant giving up his hold over any of his slaves. Serena talked her father into it, because he needs her for his deal with Rodrigo, though Rager takes Serena with him to make his escape.
Rager was a harsh, dominant character that demanded Serena follow his orders, though she had done that her entire life with her father and didn’t want to spend her entire life that way, so she fought against him. I liked the characters but not everything made sense in this book. Starting with the fact that it was said at the beginning that the desert planet was so dry that water had to be brought in from other planets. So how did Rager think he could escape into the desert? Although we do find out a bit later.
The story was good, but once the two main characters became intimate, it became smut scene after smut scene and I thought it might be that way till the end, but there was much more story to be had when they got to the hidden city called Tartarus. They meet some colorful characters, like Sayk who wants Rager to become his enforcer and the human doctor Janet who doesn’t know it, but she is Sayk’s mate. Rager and Serena soon find that Tartarus is no utopia. The only thing I really didn’t like about this book was the fact that Rager (and Sayk) used spanking as a punishment for the females. I don’t mind a little spanking in a steamy romance when both people want it, but I am not fond of it when it is used as a punishment for disobedience. I don’t like when women are supposed to follow orders of a man, just because they say so.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view and was narrated in dual narration by Tieran Wilder and Mike Carnes. Tieran Wilder has a nice voice but spoke in a bit of a whiny and overdramatic way that I really didn’t like. Mike Carnes has a deep, soft voice that I liked a lot. His voice fit the character of Rager, and I could have listened to him all night.
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August 27, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
He is an alien, a gladiator, and she's the daughter of the man who had him captive for the past 10 years.
He escapes and takes her with him (the escape scene was a little bit confusing at times, especially when the MMC negotiated the terms of his freedom).
Everything moved pretty fast between them; not sure yet, even after finishing the book, why he chose her as his mate; she was just there, I suppose 😂.
This read was spicy, but the scenes were the same; they became boring actually after a while; the same old thing, she's disobedient, he gets mad, he punished her, and then everyone is happy. 🥱
The world building was actually much more interesting than their relationship 😂 but this is the star wars fan in me talking, haha.
The current cover is much better than the original one (this is a re-release of the book, under another name), it does match better the atmosphere of the book, but it still portrays the MMC as being too human like; he was described as having feline features and it would have been nice to see this reflected in the cover; but that's fine, not a deal breaker, of course.
Overall, it was an interesting read, and I might want to read an eventual next book, with Doc and Sayk, if the author decides to turn this into a series.
.
"
“If I love you, little girl?” Rager nuzzled my hair softly as he spoke. “I breathe you. I drink your essence with every breath I take. You are the blood in my veins, the bones in my body, holding me up. Without you, Serena, I am nothing. I don’t just love you. I adore you.”"
Ok, ok, for a big, bad alien warrior / gladiator, he could pour his heart out. Sappy but adorable! 🥰 he could be gentle; sadly, for her, after this proclamation, he went ahead and showed her again who the boss is (or luckily actually 💥🤔🫣🫠🔥).
.
.
.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
He is an alien, a gladiator, and she's the daughter of the man who had him captive for the past 10 years.
He escapes and takes her with him (the escape scene was a little bit confusing at times, especially when the MMC negotiated the terms of his freedom).
Everything moved pretty fast between them; not sure yet, even after finishing the book, why he chose her as his mate; she was just there, I suppose 😂.
This read was spicy, but the scenes were the same; they became boring actually after a while; the same old thing, she's disobedient, he gets mad, he punished her, and then everyone is happy. 🥱
The world building was actually much more interesting than their relationship 😂 but this is the star wars fan in me talking, haha.
The current cover is much better than the original one (this is a re-release of the book, under another name), it does match better the atmosphere of the book, but it still portrays the MMC as being too human like; he was described as having feline features and it would have been nice to see this reflected in the cover; but that's fine, not a deal breaker, of course.
Overall, it was an interesting read, and I might want to read an eventual next book, with Doc and Sayk, if the author decides to turn this into a series.
.
"
“If I love you, little girl?” Rager nuzzled my hair softly as he spoke. “I breathe you. I drink your essence with every breath I take. You are the blood in my veins, the bones in my body, holding me up. Without you, Serena, I am nothing. I don’t just love you. I adore you.”"
Ok, ok, for a big, bad alien warrior / gladiator, he could pour his heart out. Sappy but adorable! 🥰 he could be gentle; sadly, for her, after this proclamation, he went ahead and showed her again who the boss is (or luckily actually 💥🤔🫣🫠🔥).
.
.
.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2024
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Good storyline, plenty of action. My gripe is how much, and how heavy the spanking punishments are. Sometimes I think authors get a little carried away when it comes to what constitutes a spank, as opposed to a beating. I realise the male characters are serious alpha males, but I feel the author treads a fine line when it comes to the spanking descriptions
Good storyline, plenty of action. My gripe is how much, and how heavy the spanking punishments are. Sometimes I think authors get a little carried away when it comes to what constitutes a spank, as opposed to a beating. I realise the male characters are serious alpha males, but I feel the author treads a fine line when it comes to the spanking descriptions
November 10, 2024
Warrior’s Captive: A Sci-Fi Alien Romance by R. A. Steffan is an electrifying introduction to the Valcan Mates series, offering a captivating blend of sci-fi adventure, steamy romance, and emotional depth. The story takes place on a distant planet where alien warriors are bound by ancient customs and fierce loyalty to their people. The protagonist, a strong and determined woman, is thrust into a high-stakes situation after being taken captive by one of these intimidating alien warriors. The chemistry between the human female lead and her alien captor is undeniable, with their complex relationship unfolding against the backdrop of a tense and unpredictable plot. The writing is fast-paced, drawing readers in with its vivid world-building, detailed character development, and rich interplanetary politics. The romance is steamy yet grounded, with moments of vulnerability that make the connection between the characters feel authentic.
What sets this book apart is its well-rounded characters and the exploration of themes like trust, power dynamics, and redemption. The hero, though initially seeming cold and distant, is revealed to have layers that make him more than just the stereotypical alpha male. The heroine, too, is no damsel in distress; she's strong-willed and resourceful, creating an empowering narrative that is both sexy and satisfying. While the plot is primarily driven by romance, there are thrilling action sequences and enough suspense to keep readers engaged. However, some might find certain tropes predictable, particularly in the romance genre, but Steffan manages to weave in enough twists to keep it fresh. Overall, Warrior’s Captive offers an enticing mix of passion, intrigue, and adventure that will leave fans of alien romance eager for the next installment in the Valcan Mates series.
What sets this book apart is its well-rounded characters and the exploration of themes like trust, power dynamics, and redemption. The hero, though initially seeming cold and distant, is revealed to have layers that make him more than just the stereotypical alpha male. The heroine, too, is no damsel in distress; she's strong-willed and resourceful, creating an empowering narrative that is both sexy and satisfying. While the plot is primarily driven by romance, there are thrilling action sequences and enough suspense to keep readers engaged. However, some might find certain tropes predictable, particularly in the romance genre, but Steffan manages to weave in enough twists to keep it fresh. Overall, Warrior’s Captive offers an enticing mix of passion, intrigue, and adventure that will leave fans of alien romance eager for the next installment in the Valcan Mates series.
March 24, 2024
Serena (h), a young woman trapped in a life dictated by her ruthless father, finds herself unexpectedly entangled with Rager (H), a Muharib Warrior and gladiator fighting for survival in the brutal arena of planet Valcan. Serena's father, Arenius, rules with an iron fist, using his daughter as a pawn in his schemes for power and wealth. Rager, tired of a decade-long existence as a slave fighter, seizes an opportunity for freedom when he escapes captivity, taking Serena with him. Initially intending to use her as leverage for his getaway, Rager is surprised to find himself drawn to Serena in ways he hadn't anticipated and things heat up between the two with plenty of intense, rough action, including spankings and dominance. Despite her initial resistance and defiance, Serena's vulnerability and determination begin to chip away at Rager's emotional armor. As they journey across treacherous landscapes and face various dangers, including Serena's own father and his cronies, their relationship evolves from reluctant allies to passionate partners. Along the way, Rager's protective instincts emerge, driving him to keep Serena safe at any cost, even as they both grapple with their own demons and the dangers lurking in their path. Ultra-hot and steamy romance with lots of action, adventure, and intrigue around a tale of escape, survival, and finding redemption and fulfillment in unexpected places. Lots of hot rough sexual scenes, and power play dynamics, including spanking, whipping, rough play and a lot of pleasure enhanced by pain. If dominant partners, spanking and rough sex aren't your thing, then this isn't the book for you.
November 9, 2024
I was completely absorbed by this story from the first page. The author’s ability to create a vivid, immersive world is nothing short of astounding. The characters are complex, with backstories that add layers of meaning to their actions. The plot is expertly crafted, with twists that kept me guessing until the very end. The themes explored are both timely and universal, making this a book that resonates on many levels. An absolute must-read!
November 9, 2024
What a beautifully written piece! The author paints vivid images with their words, making every scene come alive. I felt like I was there, experiencing every moment alongside the characters. The story was heartfelt and touching. It’s one of those rare finds that you want to read again immediately. A gem!
April 19, 2024
Wonderful
This is a wonderful read from a new author for me.
Eager is a captive gladiator who once was a feared warrior from a destroyed planet looking for escape he's and his world are spoiled of war. Serena is the daughter of the owner of the gladiator colosseum Arenius.
Both are running from there captured pass and looking for there own freedom . They forge an unlikely team and fall deeply in love. But, it not without own consequences.
Looking forward to next book.
This is a wonderful read from a new author for me.
Eager is a captive gladiator who once was a feared warrior from a destroyed planet looking for escape he's and his world are spoiled of war. Serena is the daughter of the owner of the gladiator colosseum Arenius.
Both are running from there captured pass and looking for there own freedom . They forge an unlikely team and fall deeply in love. But, it not without own consequences.
Looking forward to next book.
Read
April 19, 2024ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!!! Best read of 2024!
Finally, a proper love story... Violence, trickery, very graphic sexualscenes and lots of perilous fleeing! Great book, even Greater Author!!!
Finally, a proper love story... Violence, trickery, very graphic sexualscenes and lots of perilous fleeing! Great book, even Greater Author!!!
May 4, 2025
Okay. Let’s just start with this: I devoured this book like I hadn’t eaten in days and someone tossed me the most delicious, forbidden snack ever created. Warrior’s Captive was exactly the kind of primal, possessive, over-the-top alien gladiator fantasy I didn’t know I needed until I was halfway through a chapter and blushing like I’d just committed a sin in public.
I mean… Rager. His name alone had me raising an eyebrow—and then I met him on the page, and yeah, I got it. He’s all snarling dominance, raw muscle, and this untamed, alpha energy that just grabs you. Literally and figuratively. I felt like I was right there with the heroine, breath caught, heart racing, and totally unsure if I was terrified or turned on (spoiler: it was both, and I loved every second of it).
The heroine? I could totally relate to her confusion and surrender. She’s got fire, but she’s thrust into this wild situation where all the rules change. Watching her go from shocked and struggling to full-on addicted to this intense bond with Rager was a ride. There’s something deliciously twisted about how fast the captor-to-mate shift happens, but in this world, it works. I wasn’t questioning it—I was cheering it on.
And let’s talk about the spice. Whew. SPICE. This book does not hold back, and thank God for that. The spankings? Scorching. The claiming? Ferocious. The way he treats her like his to protect, punish, and pleasure? That was some next-level alpha fantasy and I was here for it. It hit all the right buttons—dark, dirty, possessive, and surprisingly emotional underneath the heat.
Alyce Guertin created a world where danger and desire are inseparable, and I didn’t want to leave it. The arena fights, the rebellion, the raw mating instinct—it all builds into this steamy, addictive storm that had me one-clicking book 2 the second I finished.
If you like your heroes massive, growly, and ready to toss you over their shoulder while muttering "mine," then Warrior’s Captive is going to rock your world. Just clear your schedule and maybe keep a fan nearby—you’re gonna need it.
I mean… Rager. His name alone had me raising an eyebrow—and then I met him on the page, and yeah, I got it. He’s all snarling dominance, raw muscle, and this untamed, alpha energy that just grabs you. Literally and figuratively. I felt like I was right there with the heroine, breath caught, heart racing, and totally unsure if I was terrified or turned on (spoiler: it was both, and I loved every second of it).
The heroine? I could totally relate to her confusion and surrender. She’s got fire, but she’s thrust into this wild situation where all the rules change. Watching her go from shocked and struggling to full-on addicted to this intense bond with Rager was a ride. There’s something deliciously twisted about how fast the captor-to-mate shift happens, but in this world, it works. I wasn’t questioning it—I was cheering it on.
And let’s talk about the spice. Whew. SPICE. This book does not hold back, and thank God for that. The spankings? Scorching. The claiming? Ferocious. The way he treats her like his to protect, punish, and pleasure? That was some next-level alpha fantasy and I was here for it. It hit all the right buttons—dark, dirty, possessive, and surprisingly emotional underneath the heat.
Alyce Guertin created a world where danger and desire are inseparable, and I didn’t want to leave it. The arena fights, the rebellion, the raw mating instinct—it all builds into this steamy, addictive storm that had me one-clicking book 2 the second I finished.
If you like your heroes massive, growly, and ready to toss you over their shoulder while muttering "mine," then Warrior’s Captive is going to rock your world. Just clear your schedule and maybe keep a fan nearby—you’re gonna need it.
March 1, 2025
It had more of a story than I expected.
It’s a gladiator story in an alien world with alien men and a chosen human mate.
Serena, unloved daughter of Arenius, the man who owns the gladiators and arena, is going to be forced into a marriage by her father.
Rager, whose real name is never revealed, is a Muharib general captured in a war with the Galactic Empire. His planet was destroyed, his people scattered, and he has been called “the Breath of Death” due to his success in the gladiator arena. He realizes his last battle was meant to kill him, so after all these years, he decides to escape too (why he didn’t earlier, I do not know, but don’t think on it too hard).
In his escape he grabs Serena to use as his safe passage because apparently all the slaves owned by Arenius have a poison implant he can set off at any time and would go off upon his death too. So in order to leave Rager barters Serena’s life, saying he’ll let her go once he’s far enough away, after removing the implant.
Serena is scared but also attracted to Rager. She’s stubborn and fights him a bit which makes him spank her and makes her…well you get the picture. So during night one of their escape they use up some time to do some other activities, which you learn also means Rager accepts Serena as a lifelong mate.
Anywho without giving much more away, the story has more to it before an HEA can be reached. And there will be one set one month later.
But the plot holes made the story less compelling.
It’s a gladiator story in an alien world with alien men and a chosen human mate.
Serena, unloved daughter of Arenius, the man who owns the gladiators and arena, is going to be forced into a marriage by her father.
Rager, whose real name is never revealed, is a Muharib general captured in a war with the Galactic Empire. His planet was destroyed, his people scattered, and he has been called “the Breath of Death” due to his success in the gladiator arena. He realizes his last battle was meant to kill him, so after all these years, he decides to escape too (why he didn’t earlier, I do not know, but don’t think on it too hard).
In his escape he grabs Serena to use as his safe passage because apparently all the slaves owned by Arenius have a poison implant he can set off at any time and would go off upon his death too. So in order to leave Rager barters Serena’s life, saying he’ll let her go once he’s far enough away, after removing the implant.
Serena is scared but also attracted to Rager. She’s stubborn and fights him a bit which makes him spank her and makes her…well you get the picture. So during night one of their escape they use up some time to do some other activities, which you learn also means Rager accepts Serena as a lifelong mate.
Anywho without giving much more away, the story has more to it before an HEA can be reached. And there will be one set one month later.
But the plot holes made the story less compelling.
March 7, 2025
A great first book!
This is the first book in the Valcan Mates series, although I’ve read it second. Not that I missed anything about the plot – they are interconnected but standalone stories, so no harm no foul. I loved both books, but this one I think I liked a bit more (just a tiny bit, though).
I loved Serena and Rager. Rager, a former Muharib general, was captured when his species lost the war with the Galactic Empire and was forced to be a gladiator and fight to the death for 10 long years, owned by the hideous Arenius, in Villea, the capital city of planet Valcan. Serena is Arenius’ daughter – seen as a mere possession to be used to gain profit by her father, through an arranged marriage. Rager manages to escape and, because of the circumstances, takes Serena with him as a prisoner, a security measure, to ensure that Arenius won’t come for him by promising to release her to her father unharmed, when he is safe. His plan is to find the mythical independent city of Tartarus and find an escape route from there, away from Arenius and the Empire. But what happens when attraction, the realization that Serena, who he understands at some point that she is his mate, is in the same peculiar position as he is and a whirlwind of events follow? Will they find Tartarus? What will happen when danger closes up on them? Who will help them ? New friends are found, enemies strike and they need to fight for their future and a chance of a new life. I couldn’t put my kindle down, turning the pages like a maniac to find out how our amazing couple can get its HEA. Great book – 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first book in the Valcan Mates series, although I’ve read it second. Not that I missed anything about the plot – they are interconnected but standalone stories, so no harm no foul. I loved both books, but this one I think I liked a bit more (just a tiny bit, though).
I loved Serena and Rager. Rager, a former Muharib general, was captured when his species lost the war with the Galactic Empire and was forced to be a gladiator and fight to the death for 10 long years, owned by the hideous Arenius, in Villea, the capital city of planet Valcan. Serena is Arenius’ daughter – seen as a mere possession to be used to gain profit by her father, through an arranged marriage. Rager manages to escape and, because of the circumstances, takes Serena with him as a prisoner, a security measure, to ensure that Arenius won’t come for him by promising to release her to her father unharmed, when he is safe. His plan is to find the mythical independent city of Tartarus and find an escape route from there, away from Arenius and the Empire. But what happens when attraction, the realization that Serena, who he understands at some point that she is his mate, is in the same peculiar position as he is and a whirlwind of events follow? Will they find Tartarus? What will happen when danger closes up on them? Who will help them ? New friends are found, enemies strike and they need to fight for their future and a chance of a new life. I couldn’t put my kindle down, turning the pages like a maniac to find out how our amazing couple can get its HEA. Great book – 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2025
His fiery mate - Rager escaped the gladiator pits, the champion of Valcan a proud warrior forced to kill to survive. Serena is his hostage, his captor's only heir who sought her own freedom from her father's cruelty. On the run from certain death, she surrenders to his authority, promises to obey. Or there will be punishment. He has claimed her as his mate, the only one to ever hold his heart. Serena is a fighter in her own right, mustering up her courage in even the most dire situations. She'll take her lumps for putting herself in danger, but she'll never stand by and let him be bested. Rager is a dominant lover for his untried mate, giving no quarter for her inexperience. A rough loving is what she can always expect, and she revels in his touch. A good read that kicks off what purports to be an exciting series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 4, 2024
Warrior’s Captive is a spicy fast paced Sci-Fi Romance, the first book of the author’s Warriors of Tartarus series.
MFC Serena is daughter of the capitol city of Villea’s Governor who also owns gladiators that are forced to fight in his arena.
One of those men is Muharib warrior MMC Rager who Serena is drawn to as a moth to a flame.
Their story is one of intrigue, suspense, danger, spice, mate bonding, and romance that becomes ever fiercer when Rager uses Serena to escape the clutches of her egregious father.
I enjoyed their action filled well written adventure that leads to love and ultimate freedom for both from under her father’s oppression.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
MFC Serena is daughter of the capitol city of Villea’s Governor who also owns gladiators that are forced to fight in his arena.
One of those men is Muharib warrior MMC Rager who Serena is drawn to as a moth to a flame.
Their story is one of intrigue, suspense, danger, spice, mate bonding, and romance that becomes ever fiercer when Rager uses Serena to escape the clutches of her egregious father.
I enjoyed their action filled well written adventure that leads to love and ultimate freedom for both from under her father’s oppression.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2025
Audio Review:
Okay so I don't normally go towards alien romance. Honestly the cover really was captured my eye along withe the authors note, but I decided why not give it a try and I was surprisingly glad I did. I loved the audio because it was easy to follow and understand what is occurring which I normally struggle with in Sci-Fi books. The author is beautifully descriptive in everything she wrote and even after listening I was also captivated by the story line itself. The spice was evident no denying the intense scenes in this book that really makes a reader blush, but loved every minute of it. Tieran Wilder and Mike Carnes did an amazing job narrating this and it was a great read. The authors and the narrators have me hooked for book 2 and wanting more.
Okay so I don't normally go towards alien romance. Honestly the cover really was captured my eye along withe the authors note, but I decided why not give it a try and I was surprisingly glad I did. I loved the audio because it was easy to follow and understand what is occurring which I normally struggle with in Sci-Fi books. The author is beautifully descriptive in everything she wrote and even after listening I was also captivated by the story line itself. The spice was evident no denying the intense scenes in this book that really makes a reader blush, but loved every minute of it. Tieran Wilder and Mike Carnes did an amazing job narrating this and it was a great read. The authors and the narrators have me hooked for book 2 and wanting more.
June 27, 2024
★ “Obeying me is not a matter of option.” ★
A celebrated gladiator champion is suddenly strapped with the daughter of the governor of the planet Valcan….which also happens to be his owner. Rager, the “Breath of Death” is sick of all the violence and blood spilled all around him as well as by his hands. Keeping Serena safe as she becomes his responsibility leads to much more as he struggles to make a life for himself outside of the arena. Enjoyed diving into this new-to-me author’s sci-fi alien romance!
A celebrated gladiator champion is suddenly strapped with the daughter of the governor of the planet Valcan….which also happens to be his owner. Rager, the “Breath of Death” is sick of all the violence and blood spilled all around him as well as by his hands. Keeping Serena safe as she becomes his responsibility leads to much more as he struggles to make a life for himself outside of the arena. Enjoyed diving into this new-to-me author’s sci-fi alien romance!
December 26, 2024
Warrior’s Captive is the first book in The Valcan Mates series. It is a rough sexy sci-fi romance. Rager is a Muharib warrior and captive gladiator. He is being forced to fight by Arenius, the owner of the colosseum. To secure his release, he kidnaps Serena, the daughter of Arenius. They manage to escape and run for their lives. It is during this time that Rager and Serena fall in love and become mates. Tieran Wilder and Mike Carnes were both phenomenal in their narration. They brought this story to life. I highly recommend listening to this fabulous audiobook.
April 7, 2024
There's something about the total possession and dominion that Rager required that is dark and delicious. Serena doesn't understand why he keeps saving her. He keeps giving her mixed signals. I loved the action and adventure as well as the erotic levels that their romance escalate too. An entertaining read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2024
okay
The story was good but some of the spicy scenes were a bit too much in the punishment department. There wasn’t a single time where the FMC wasn’t beaten with a belt beforehand and every time they had sex it was some sort of punishment. I understand that he’s an alpha MMC but it would have been nice if at least one of these scenes could have been loving or at least not the result of some big blow up fight. Not every sexual encounter has to be brought on by rage.
The story was good but some of the spicy scenes were a bit too much in the punishment department. There wasn’t a single time where the FMC wasn’t beaten with a belt beforehand and every time they had sex it was some sort of punishment. I understand that he’s an alpha MMC but it would have been nice if at least one of these scenes could have been loving or at least not the result of some big blow up fight. Not every sexual encounter has to be brought on by rage.
May 26, 2024
Excellent Rough Love
This is a very imaginative and well-written short story. It's easy to imagine two beings, forced to endure unbelievable hardships, running for their lives, could become dependent and close. That closeness could easily turn into love. Love comes in many different ways, and who's to say if one person's tolerances are unacceptable to the rest of us. Compelling tale of love conquering hardship, status, and evil to flourish magnificently! Enjoy!
This is a very imaginative and well-written short story. It's easy to imagine two beings, forced to endure unbelievable hardships, running for their lives, could become dependent and close. That closeness could easily turn into love. Love comes in many different ways, and who's to say if one person's tolerances are unacceptable to the rest of us. Compelling tale of love conquering hardship, status, and evil to flourish magnificently! Enjoy!
March 31, 2024
So good…
Rager, one of the last remaining legendary Muharib warriors, fought valiantly in the gladiator arena longer than any other. When an opportunity presented itself, he took it along with Serena, the evil slave-owners daughter… I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
Rager, one of the last remaining legendary Muharib warriors, fought valiantly in the gladiator arena longer than any other. When an opportunity presented itself, he took it along with Serena, the evil slave-owners daughter… I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
April 14, 2024
What I liked most about Rager was his absolute belief in himself and his abilities. He knew he could overcome all obstacles. The only hesitation was his feelings for Serena. She made him re-evaluate his dangerous path, but kept him focussed on freedom and survival for both. I previously read this as Gladiator's Captive and enjoyed it just as thoroughly the second time around.
March 9, 2025
Well color me surprised. This was actually a robust story, with a some very intriguing worldbuilding and interesting characters.
The most surprising thing is that i didn't like the smexy times as much as I liked the rest of the books.
Probably has to do with the kind of spank spank there was and that the backdoor action was more front and center.
Still, will read book 2 for sure.
The most surprising thing is that i didn't like the smexy times as much as I liked the rest of the books.
Probably has to do with the kind of spank spank there was and that the backdoor action was more front and center.
Still, will read book 2 for sure.
March 17, 2025
Warrior’s captive is an alien story that is a quick read. Ragnar (alien) was a captured warrior and fought as a gladiator. Serena (human) was the ruler’s daughter.
This story goes from zero to 100 in five seconds. There’s an escape, kidnapping, a race to get away, spankings, and that only a little bit what to expect. You have to read the book to find out how it ends.
This story goes from zero to 100 in five seconds. There’s an escape, kidnapping, a race to get away, spankings, and that only a little bit what to expect. You have to read the book to find out how it ends.
April 2, 2024
fast paced, dark and spicy
If you read the blurb, you know what you are getting into with this book. The plot and timeline move super fast but in this type of book that just works. A fun read for sure
If you read the blurb, you know what you are getting into with this book. The plot and timeline move super fast but in this type of book that just works. A fun read for sure
April 5, 2024
Cracking
A great start to the series - I really enjoyed this book which is well written and has solid characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A great start to the series - I really enjoyed this book which is well written and has solid characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 9, 2024
Good
I loved how intense Rager was. I was sad that he was unwilling to share his real name. I was confused that he talked about going to his home planet, but yet we learn it was stripped and made uninhabitable. But it's okay because the story was awesome.
I loved how intense Rager was. I was sad that he was unwilling to share his real name. I was confused that he talked about going to his home planet, but yet we learn it was stripped and made uninhabitable. But it's okay because the story was awesome.
July 10, 2024
Definitely a decent read. I thought the story was really well written and kept me reading. I liked the punishment scenes the best! This girl finds a character worth meeting!
I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
July 12, 2024
DNF
I’ve read almost this exact book before, I tried to look to see if the author/name had been changed during a republication, but couldn’t find that it had. It says it was published March 2024 so that seems unlikely.
I’ve read almost this exact book before, I tried to look to see if the author/name had been changed during a republication, but couldn’t find that it had. It says it was published March 2024 so that seems unlikely.
November 9, 2024
I appreciated the effort that went into crafting this story, but it didn’t quite resonate with me. The plot had potential, but the execution was lacking. There were too many side plots that distracted from the main narrative. I enjoyed parts of it, but it wasn’t as cohesive as I’d hoped.
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