What do you think?
Rate this book
Human Pets of Talin #7
Redeeming Captivity
After suffering under an abusive owner for years, Lena has become angry and defiant. Tarquin wants to show her that he's different, but can she stop trying to bite him long enough to give him a chance? TarquinSent to a remote Talin outpost under the pretext of an emergency readiness inspection, Tarquin finds the only human there in poor condition. Unlike the images of Lena given to him before setting off, the woman he encounters is unkempt and volatile. Getting her away from an abusive owner turns out to be the easy part. Teaching her to trust him will be the true challenge. This will be the most important task of Tarquin’s life, and he's determined to succeed. What he doesn’t expect is to lose his heart to this human pet and all the danger that implies.LenaLena spent her childhood and young adulthood as a cherished pet. Growing up with loving parents and adoring Talin owners, she’d never experienced deprivation or hardship. But when financial trouble strikes the Talin family, they’re forced to sell her. She’s sent to live with a new owner at a remote outpost and her life turns into a nightmare. By the time rescue comes in the form of a Talin named Tarquin, it’s too late. Nothing is left of the carefree young woman she once was. Bitterness and anger rule her life. No matter what she does, Tarquin’s patience and kindness don’t change. It doesn’t take long until she thinks it’s might be possible to trust again. In the midst of getting to know each other, Tarquin and Lena find themselves embroiled in a complex plot to overthrow the Talin government. Does she help Tarquin or does she stand back and let the whole empire burn?
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 14, 2025
44 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
dnf
April 8, 2025Instalove doesn’t work in this situation
June 3, 2025
Redeeming Captivity was the seventh book in R.K.Munin’s Human Pets of Talin series. It was a solid installment that continued to balance sci-fi romance with a bit of action and intrigue.
Our lead FMC for this one was Lena, a human woman who was born and raised within Talin society as a pet. Her childhood was good but the last couple of years of her life had been blighted by significant trauma after being sold to a cruel owner. This experience left her deeply scarred but also provided her with a fuller understanding of the darker undercurrents of Talin society. The male lead was Tarquin, who was another very liberal Talin, largely due to his association with Hollian, as his adopted son. Tarquin’s care and protective instincts towards Lena was soon put to use as he had to rescue her from her cruel owner. Their journey together also involved more direct confrontation with active elements of the Traditionalist movement which injected a bit more action into this particular story.
I was a fan of the slightly different dynamic between Lena and Tarquin. Lena's perspective, shaped by her lifelong status as a pet and the subsequent trauma, was compelling. I liked how Tarquin genuinely cared for Lena, and his more progressive outlook, influenced by Holian and time spent on his human friendly Colony, made their connection believable and hopeful. Equally important was Lena's own character arc as her experiences had clearly opened her eyes to the dangers and significant downsides of Talin society even for those supposedly cherished. This realization added a layer of depth to her character and the story.
On the whole, this was a solid and engaging read that effectively blended the romance and story of the leads with the wider political tensions of the Talin world.
Rating: 3.5 stars.
Audio Note: Used Eleven Reader text-to-speech app and the Jessica Anne Bogart voice. It was solid.
Our lead FMC for this one was Lena, a human woman who was born and raised within Talin society as a pet. Her childhood was good but the last couple of years of her life had been blighted by significant trauma after being sold to a cruel owner. This experience left her deeply scarred but also provided her with a fuller understanding of the darker undercurrents of Talin society. The male lead was Tarquin, who was another very liberal Talin, largely due to his association with Hollian, as his adopted son. Tarquin’s care and protective instincts towards Lena was soon put to use as he had to rescue her from her cruel owner. Their journey together also involved more direct confrontation with active elements of the Traditionalist movement which injected a bit more action into this particular story.
I was a fan of the slightly different dynamic between Lena and Tarquin. Lena's perspective, shaped by her lifelong status as a pet and the subsequent trauma, was compelling. I liked how Tarquin genuinely cared for Lena, and his more progressive outlook, influenced by Holian and time spent on his human friendly Colony, made their connection believable and hopeful. Equally important was Lena's own character arc as her experiences had clearly opened her eyes to the dangers and significant downsides of Talin society even for those supposedly cherished. This realization added a layer of depth to her character and the story.
On the whole, this was a solid and engaging read that effectively blended the romance and story of the leads with the wider political tensions of the Talin world.
Rating: 3.5 stars.
Audio Note: Used Eleven Reader text-to-speech app and the Jessica Anne Bogart voice. It was solid.
March 18, 2025
Redeeming Captivity
I so enjoy returning to the Talin. The MMC is very much a human “whisperer”. The MFC has been through such terrible trauma and he is so patient and understanding with her. I really liked how she decided to stay where the wounded warriors go to help them with their trauma.
The Talin empire is struggling with many of the things that are happening in our reality, like having conservative thinkers who live in contrived narratives,
“When I rule the empire, we’ll return to our era of glory.”
Tarquin was genuinely confused. “When did the era end? We haven’t lost a war in a thousand years, we have the second most powerful military in the known universe, and we’re a rich, advanced species.”
It's so odd that someone with so much power seems to think that their empire isn't doing well. Is it just an insatiable longing for more power? How much power does one person need?
I appreciated the comments on the importance of art,
“Those necklaces and decorations distinguish our people from the Traditionalists in one of the most important ways.’
Lena was intrigued despite herself. ‘In what way?’
‘Unquestioning conformity,’...
And this,
‘The Traditionalists are all about making sure everyone conforms but don’t care if they die. I’m not sure what I’d call that.’
‘Doomed obedience?’ Lena suggested.
Definitely full of echoes of our life outside the pages of fiction. Of course, books themselves are art (and the MFC writes stories) that remind us in countless ways to not conform everyday.
I so enjoy returning to the Talin. The MMC is very much a human “whisperer”. The MFC has been through such terrible trauma and he is so patient and understanding with her. I really liked how she decided to stay where the wounded warriors go to help them with their trauma.
The Talin empire is struggling with many of the things that are happening in our reality, like having conservative thinkers who live in contrived narratives,
“When I rule the empire, we’ll return to our era of glory.”
Tarquin was genuinely confused. “When did the era end? We haven’t lost a war in a thousand years, we have the second most powerful military in the known universe, and we’re a rich, advanced species.”
It's so odd that someone with so much power seems to think that their empire isn't doing well. Is it just an insatiable longing for more power? How much power does one person need?
I appreciated the comments on the importance of art,
“Those necklaces and decorations distinguish our people from the Traditionalists in one of the most important ways.’
Lena was intrigued despite herself. ‘In what way?’
‘Unquestioning conformity,’...
And this,
‘The Traditionalists are all about making sure everyone conforms but don’t care if they die. I’m not sure what I’d call that.’
‘Doomed obedience?’ Lena suggested.
Definitely full of echoes of our life outside the pages of fiction. Of course, books themselves are art (and the MFC writes stories) that remind us in countless ways to not conform everyday.
March 21, 2025
Redeeming Captivity
I was so excited to see another book in this series and, of course, I devoured it from beginning to end. This might be one of my favorite books in the series so far. I love how strong Lena is in spite of all she has gone through. Tarquin is perfection in his knowledge of how to interact with humans and was the perfect cure for the terrible things other Talins had done to Lena. The end of the book, maybe not as adventure filled as some, was perfect for Lena and Tarquin. To get a sense of their tranquil life together just makes this world feel like one you could jump on a spaceship and go visit. This series and the origins series are in my top 3 favorite series and guaranteed to have me rushing to read them as soon as they’re released.
I was so excited to see another book in this series and, of course, I devoured it from beginning to end. This might be one of my favorite books in the series so far. I love how strong Lena is in spite of all she has gone through. Tarquin is perfection in his knowledge of how to interact with humans and was the perfect cure for the terrible things other Talins had done to Lena. The end of the book, maybe not as adventure filled as some, was perfect for Lena and Tarquin. To get a sense of their tranquil life together just makes this world feel like one you could jump on a spaceship and go visit. This series and the origins series are in my top 3 favorite series and guaranteed to have me rushing to read them as soon as they’re released.
May 7, 2025
Love, explosions, villains!
I love this series. It has great characters, so much action and a wonderful teaser at the end of this book. Tarquin and Lena are well thought out characters and Lena's difficulty talking is so understandable. Darwin's double role trying to assess Lena's condition while posing as an inspector of the readiness of the planet's defenses is very convincing. But then the action begins-the scenes trying to survive a capture, a wind driven rock storm, a rescue, another capture, runaway rock walkers. Even the ultimate rescue is amazing. But it doesn't end there, so much more after that. I get pretty impatient waiting for the next book in the series.
I love this series. It has great characters, so much action and a wonderful teaser at the end of this book. Tarquin and Lena are well thought out characters and Lena's difficulty talking is so understandable. Darwin's double role trying to assess Lena's condition while posing as an inspector of the readiness of the planet's defenses is very convincing. But then the action begins-the scenes trying to survive a capture, a wind driven rock storm, a rescue, another capture, runaway rock walkers. Even the ultimate rescue is amazing. But it doesn't end there, so much more after that. I get pretty impatient waiting for the next book in the series.
March 21, 2025
5 stars
I only give books I am sure I will read again 5 stars. Since besides this one, I have read the rest 3 times, it is pretty safe to assume I will do the same her.
I appreciate Lena. I appreciate she never really started talking, either. Sometimes trauma is what it is, and a person does th best you can.
Tarquin was fine. He was what you expect out of a Talin. But Lena stole the show. I can't wait to catch up with them later. If you haven't read how the humans became pets, I suggest you do. It is super entertaining.
I only give books I am sure I will read again 5 stars. Since besides this one, I have read the rest 3 times, it is pretty safe to assume I will do the same her.
I appreciate Lena. I appreciate she never really started talking, either. Sometimes trauma is what it is, and a person does th best you can.
Tarquin was fine. He was what you expect out of a Talin. But Lena stole the show. I can't wait to catch up with them later. If you haven't read how the humans became pets, I suggest you do. It is super entertaining.
March 30, 2025
If you haven't started this series, you should. I love the Talins! Each book is a stand alone read. But each book also has characters from previous stories included and over all it is one big story made of lots of stories. This is Tarquin and Lena's story. It may trigger some folks, but I thought it was a great read. It does have some spicy scenes, but not an overwhelming amount unlike some books. I enjoyed the book and thought it was GREAT! I can't wait to see what troubles that Ruby and Myrum might get up to. I hope they are in the next book.
March 15, 2025
Another Great Book!
I loved the newest addition to the Talin universe! Personally, the wounded bird troupe is my favorite and it was done beautifully in this story.
This one can be read as a stand alone, but still carries on the overarching plot of the Talin universe. Definitely recommend!
I loved the newest addition to the Talin universe! Personally, the wounded bird troupe is my favorite and it was done beautifully in this story.
This one can be read as a stand alone, but still carries on the overarching plot of the Talin universe. Definitely recommend!
March 15, 2025
Enjoyed it but the romance was very weirdly rushed. She's always been treated as a pet with no concept of Talin/human romance. Shes been horrible abused and is mistrustful, won't speak, and bites when someone tries to touch her. But three days after they meet she says "I love you" and they have sex. It was so abrupt and jarring. There was almost no transition.
March 23, 2025
loved it.
RK Munin has been and always will be my favourite author. I love the world she makes. I have read every book that she has released and I can’t stop telling everyone who will listen about them! Please never stop writing!
Now, about Ruby. I need more of her in my life. Like. Right this second. I can’t wait a whole year!
RK Munin has been and always will be my favourite author. I love the world she makes. I have read every book that she has released and I can’t stop telling everyone who will listen about them! Please never stop writing!
Now, about Ruby. I need more of her in my life. Like. Right this second. I can’t wait a whole year!
April 20, 2025
All the feels and an intriguing plot.
I love when they underestimate their human pets. I always fall in love with every character in this series. The over arching story of what is happening also has me wanting more. I am so hoping Kormin and the Simtees get stories. Or maybe the Simtees get their own series.
Can not wait for more from this author whatever genre they write.
I love when they underestimate their human pets. I always fall in love with every character in this series. The over arching story of what is happening also has me wanting more. I am so hoping Kormin and the Simtees get stories. Or maybe the Simtees get their own series.
Can not wait for more from this author whatever genre they write.
March 15, 2025
This book was so heartbreaking but I loved how the Talin sent made our little broken human strong again. I recommend this series by RK MUNIN starting with book 1 Creating Captivity-Origins book 1. This will give you the understanding of the world of the Talins and Humans. Good reading!!
March 17, 2025
Engaging Story
I truly enjoyed reading about Tarquin and Lena. Lena’s abuse, panic attacks, her chance on Tarquin, his patience, care and the subsequent events all lead to a really great story. Love this series and Go Ruby.
I truly enjoyed reading about Tarquin and Lena. Lena’s abuse, panic attacks, her chance on Tarquin, his patience, care and the subsequent events all lead to a really great story. Love this series and Go Ruby.
November 22, 2025
too rushed, and then too slow
This really could have benefited from a slower romance, and honestly Lena not being able to talk just forced. I loved this series in the beginning but it just got kind of boring.
This really could have benefited from a slower romance, and honestly Lena not being able to talk just forced. I loved this series in the beginning but it just got kind of boring.
March 14, 2025
Outstanding characters! Lots of action, sweet hero. A wonderful addition to the Talin books.
March 15, 2025
I'm not sure why the last chapter was written in a lizard's point of view, but it was cute.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2025
LOVE LENA THE BRAVE
Lena is brave and strong and resilient. Tarquin is so wonderful with her. The very end is from a lizards POV. Can't wait for the next in this series.
Lena is brave and strong and resilient. Tarquin is so wonderful with her. The very end is from a lizards POV. Can't wait for the next in this series.
March 26, 2025
The series plot is getting serious. This one wasn't my favorite romance but I did like Lena and the adventure they had was cool.
August 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really enjoy this series and this was an excellent addition. I look forward to reading the next one. Easy 5 stars.
I really enjoy this series and this was an excellent addition. I look forward to reading the next one. Easy 5 stars.
September 10, 2025
This one was another favorite (maybe my actual favorite in the series). Tarquin was so patient with Lena and seeing her come into her own was something. He also wasn't a Talin who thought she was "too soft" or "too weak" or even dumb. She became badass like Lakin and I liked their ending.
Read
October 16, 2025man i can’t stop reading this series it’s just such fun filler no stakes fluff
March 20, 2025
This story continues to move the overall plot of the series forward. Lena was sold as a pet to abusive Talins and her previously pampered life is shattered. Tarquin comes to inspect the colony and discovers that nothing is happening as it should.
Of course Lena is clever, smart, and works to save the day. There is scent bonding with just the right mix of adventure with a Talin who had endless devotion to his human.
Of course Lena is clever, smart, and works to save the day. There is scent bonding with just the right mix of adventure with a Talin who had endless devotion to his human.
March 22, 2025
What an amazing story. Lena is a human that knows Talins both good and bad. Unfortunately, she has been owned by an abusive one for awhile and is damaged both physically and mentally. Enter Tarquin, a Talin sent to retrieve her anyway he can. When he meets her and she bites him, he is rather shocked but it does not change his mind. I enjoyed this story immensely, so much so, that I stayed up way to0 late reading it. Tarquin was so good with Lena and even though she did not speak he paid such attention to her that most of the time he knew what she was feeling. It is always fun to open one of these books and know you are going to see old friends again. Can't wait for the next one.
April 1, 2025
the best yet
It's been really nice to see this author come into the style and background of the Talin empire. I do have some older favorites Lana and her companion, Zia and her tenacity. This one is my new favorite and will be hard to top.
It's been really nice to see this author come into the style and background of the Talin empire. I do have some older favorites Lana and her companion, Zia and her tenacity. This one is my new favorite and will be hard to top.
April 5, 2025
I liked it, but a few things bothered me. Human pets are precious. Yet multiple people on her new owner's planet hit her or harmed her by leaving her in a small cage without anything to do. Why didn't the other Talin help her? We are told someone anonymously reported her abuse.
She was ripped away from her parents and family and sold. Yet after she is rescued she never tries to contact them.
I liked how the hero spoiled her with gifts.
She was ripped away from her parents and family and sold. Yet after she is rescued she never tries to contact them.
I liked how the hero spoiled her with gifts.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews