The Adventures of Josain Jovenne

by Clare Dugmore

A Throvani Ethrionth Star System Series Prologue Novella.
Raised in an orphanage in a star system beyond the Earth’s, now an adult, Josain Jovenne seeks adventures.

In her trusty spaceship, Stone Ocean, Josain has travelled far and wide. And in every spaceport, there’s another notch on her bedpost.

Naturally curious, Josain is drawn to the planet Kralis by a royal ritual. And, determined to see what’s happening inside the Obsidian Palace, Josain sneaks inside.

But she isn’t the only one.

Savrion is a Kralian on the wrong side of the law, and intends to use the royal ritual as his chance to steal from the Obsidian Palace. There’s only one thing standing in his way, Josain.

Josain is many things, but she isn’t a thief. She won’t let Savrion walk away with rare book from the royal library. Even if that means risking her life for a race of beings that aren’t even her own.

But perhaps the adventurer and outlaw can come to an agreement that involves far less bloodshed, and instead an outlet for their mutual attraction.

THE ADVENTURES OF JOSAIN JOVENNE is a spicy science-fiction romance novella intended to serve as an introduction to my forthcoming science-fiction romance novel, THE STARLIGHT PRINCE.

115 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 19, 2024

About the author

For Clare, storytelling has always been a sacred space — a place of wonder, connection, and escape. Now, as an author, they strive to offer readers that same refuge through stories infused with magic, romance, and quiet resistance.

A queer, neurodivergent creative, Clare writes with an open heart and a justice-driven lens, often centering marginalized voices and themes of chosen family, healing, and hope. Their work is rooted in a gentle faith — one that finds God in softness, starlight, and the radical act of compassion.

Clare lives in the West Midlands, UK, with their spouse and two children. When not building fantastical worlds or devouring books, they can be found gaming, binge-watching cozy series, or crafting handmade magic.

Looking ahead, Clare is focused on cultivating a vibrant, values-led creative community. Through their stories and the Kindred Book Club (https://claredugmore.com/kindred-book...) — a platform to uplift indie authors and support meaningful causes — they aim to spark joy, amplify diverse voices, and remind readers that they're never alone.

Want to stay in the loop? Subscribe to my newsletter (https://claredugmore.com/letters-from...) for heartfelt updates, writing news, and bookish magic.

Reviews

[Abbie · Rating 1 out of 5]

I got 22 pages in and quit. I'm normally quite resillient, but the writing was awkward, and the tense constantly switched between past & present, even midsentence!

[Christine Rains · Rating 5 out of 5]

Josain Jovenne has traveled across the cosmos seeking adventure. When she gets word that a royal ritual is taking place on the beautiful planet of Kralis, she can't resist sneaking inside and watching it herself. Yet instead of witnessing a prince finding his fated mate, she discovers a plot by usurpers to undermine the sacred will of their god and a gorgeous thief in the library. Before she knows it, she's helping the alliance and inviting the thief into her bed. But will she end up with a target on her back for being unable to resist the hot Kralian who fought her for a book?

This book is a spicy introduction to the sci-fi romance series, The Throvani Ethrionth Star System. The world building is incredible, even though we just get a peek at it through Josain's eyes. It's beautiful, magical, and filled with unique aliens. Josain is a bold and spunky adventurer who isn't out to cause trouble, but lets her curiosity take her to new places to explore. Savrion is a Kralian who loathes his father and wants to stop his evil plots, but when Josain stands in his way of stealing a sacred book, they find something neither of them expected. The tension between them is sizzling, and oh is there some steamy scenes! I can't wait for more in this series.

[K.M. Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

good introduction to starboard lovers…

I am going to start by saying I don’t usually read sci-fi, it’s not usually my thing, but I’ve read Clare Dugmore’s contemporary romance before and thought I’d give it ago. What a beautifully created world. I could imagine all the colours and sparkle throughout. Josain and Savrion are very likeable characters, the story was fast paced, but since there will be more to come it was the perfect introduction to this world. If a sci/fantasy book can keep my attention (which never happens) then it’s worth a go.

[Destiny Cherry · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is not much to say about this book because it is incredibly short. In terms of content the descriptions of the world and the aesthetics of the characters is beautifully worded and easy to imagine. But along the same vain in made the interactions between characters uncomfortable and stiff. So I think this writer is fantastic at world building and descriptions but needs work in personalizing interactions, making them intimate or witty or whatever emotion they’re attempting to convey.

[Laz the Sailor · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a clever short story that is supposed to be a prelude to a series, but the other books aren't published yet(?). There are many species and advanced technology. There is a backstory and some magic too. There is a little sex, but it's generally a light-hearted romp with medium spice. The various threads got a bit jumbled, but the core story worked well. There are several editing errors that should be corrected in a future release.

I doubt I will read more in this series.

[Clare Bentley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not my usual genre to read, but I found The Adventures Of Josain Jovenne extremely enjoyable. I was particularly impressed with Dugmore's world building and fell in love with the characters, Josain and Savrion. A recommended read for those who love to delve into fantasy worlds.

[Kyra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short read to introduce people to Clare's new series! Absolutely phenomenal world building and descriptions, and a fantastic cast of characters I'm looking forward to learning more about!