Fated Frenzy

Planetary Pairing Program Aqua #1

by Gigi Zarbi

Nala's thirty-two, single, and unwilling to mingle. Dating seems like a waste of reading time. Demons, fae, mafiosos, shifters, vampires, etc. were her type; no Steve from Tinder could compete with her book boyfriends.

So when a stranger with gills offers Nala the opportunity to join their planet's matchmaking program, she doesn't hesitate to accept.

Who would refuse the chance to date their potential one [to three] true love[s]?

Not her. Not even if the six handsome suitors can become monstrous unearthly creatures.

Nala's undeterred by the Planetary Pairing Program's fine print along with this peculiar magical world she's been cannonballed into.

Will finding love bring happily ever after, or is it only just the beginning?

Genres: Why Choose, Fantasy, Paranormal

472 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 6, 2024

About the author

Gigi Zarbi writes spicy romances that are packed with laughs–although, proceed with caution and check the content warnings, as faer stories can sometimes be dark too. Being a visually driven libra, all of faer works are illustrated in-text by insanely talented human artists. When fae aren't writing, Gigi is typically hanging out with faer three dogs or snapping photos.

Reviews

[Alexandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I. Could. Not. Put. It. Down.

I ate this book UP y'all! 🔥 The entire concept is something that i didn't know i needed. I mean a galactic dating program with wealthy, attractive monster shifters? Sign me up!

The world building was brilliant and perfectly placed. It wasn't so intense that I got bored with it, but it also wasn't lacking in description. I could visualize each planet, building and room easily.

Nala is such a refreshing FMC. She's in her thirties, opinionated AF and her emotional strength is amazing. Though she suffers from depression/anxiety, she pushes through and perseveres. The amount of love she can feel and give is beautiful. She really is such a relatable character!

I found myself constantly giggling, gasping and kicking my feet while reading. The genuine banter between characters had me laughing out loud and highlighting like crazy on my Kindle. There are few wince-worthy moments (like things that have happened in the past) but nothing compares to the love between these pages.

And let's not forget the spice, baby! This romp-fest of a novel won't leave you high and dry. I can promise you that. Anything and everything you can think of is between these pages (and these characters 👀👀). I mean, come on, the FMC is romance reader. You get the picture.

And get ready for the plot twist of all MF plot twists, okay?! It left me SCREAMING and DMing GiGi immediately.

If you like:

✨️ fated mates
✨️ why choose
✨️ strong fmc lead
✨️ diverse cast
✨️ modern magical world
✨️ fast burn

You'll love it!

A special THANK YOU to the author for providing me an ARC to devour! While I am so grateful for that, this review is 100%my own thoughts 🖤🖤

[LaTosha Webber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where do I begin?!? This was such a fun read from start to almost finish, since ish hits the fan at the end. So let’s start with what kept this from being five stars, 1. a few times I was to confused with all the emotional upheaval to understand what information the characters were trying to impart and about like how the visions and Sight played into things and where there different versions? 2. The way Nala went from all in emotionally to hesitant about fate and mates when like the whole basis for her handling things so well was that her fantasy/smut reading had prepared her for being in the position she was in. It just didn’t feel like a logical character development. And 3. The subspecies and creature differences felt a little distracting? Or like unnecessarily complicated, idk. I just feel like if I would have understood a little better the things happening with Nala would have made more sense, maybe?!? But we are still seating at a solid 4/4.25 here!

This was a solid and enjoyable read. It feels very fast paced but the plot builds a touch slower and balances things out nicely. Also point of fact…I fucking knew it, when it comes to a certain someone who was not passing the vibe check!!

Anyway moving along. This is a book for reader girls but not in the cheesy way!! Nala is such a lovable character. The FMCS are well developed and all very different in personalities and the clashes were so enjoyable. I like when things don’t go completely smooth when the harem is being built from “scratch.” The world building was fun and painted vividly but not overly complicated so I could picture everything for the most part. I’m so happy to have received this ARC and I’m beyond excited about book 2. This ends in a cliffhanger but you kinda see it coming a mile away.

[E.K. Darnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC and my review is my own opinion.

I really enjoyed how unique this book was, along with the intensive world building. It was done in a way which kept me interested, no big sections of info dumping, but sprinkled throughout the story. Love a good why choose story, because why have one hot bachelor when you can have a bunch! It was interesting to see how she built relationships with the different guys and how they all fit together as a unit!

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun ARC to read!

This book is nearly 600 pages long, and I devoured each and every one.

I can relate to our FMC, Nala, in several ways which made me root for her and mentally cuss her out simultaneously.
Then there are the males. Sweet, pouty Jin. Protective, problem-solving Mo. Deliciously chaotic and naughty Ry. Secretive and swoony Vex.
I adore a book that gives me multifaceted characters. I feel their victories and failures as if I'm forging into life with them. I can't wait to tackle new challenges with them.

I thought I'd be overwhelmed by the multitude of characters combined with world building. Instead, I'm looking forward to continuing to see/experience other worlds and realms with this adventurous fivesome.

Gigi managed to combine so many of my favorites, and I cannot wait for what comes next!

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was just entertaining. hooking me in right from the start. When Nala goes from her normal day working at a diner in her hometown in South Carolina, to being basically kidnapped and taken to Neptune.
Yup, Neptune.
and finds out she's been taken to be part of a matchmaking program. For the next 5 weeks she'll be going on dates with specifically chosen 6 candidates to hopefully be a match with Nala. Catch is, they're not human. all different shifters with their own magic. they're looking for a mate. they're looking for HER.
Her dates are, Vex, Timos, Jin, Ryloh, Zaire, and Chadwick.
This was just so fun in my opinion. a lot of information that was thrown in...it did confuse me at times. however I still couldn't get enough.
this is a SUPER FAST BURN/INSTALOVE
this book takes place within 2 weeks and A LOT happens in these 2 weeks. I honestly thought several weeks passed by, until they mentioned how much time was left near the end of the book. 😅
I'd have to say my favorites were Ryloh and Timos.
I wish we got more chapters in each of their pov.
that cliffhanger got me again though. those last several chapters were just insane. I can't wait to start book 2.


thank you Sunnybabepr and Gigi for a copy of this book in exchange of a review. I enjoyed it so much. Definitely reading the next book. 🫶🏻

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐
3-4🌶️

Planetary Pairing Program - Take me away! What an absolutely fun and unique ride. First off, the chapter illustrations are one of my new favorite things, the art is so good and it's really an awesome touch. The classification guide in the beginning for sure deserves all the love (it's also so cute and colorful) and a few once overs so you don't get confused. The characters are diverse and well done. Want Sirens? Fae? Dragons? Demons? Vampires? Maybe, other breeds crossed with various other animals and begins - well this has them all and more. World building is really cool and the attention to detail was great.

Nala is a refreshing FMC, with a wonderful harem at her hands and it's been a riot to read her finding herself on Neptune. There were a few times I did find myself a bit confused, but I couldn't put this down and the end had me running to book 2.

Still trying to figure out who my favorite MMC is but... why choose right?


-- Quotes --

"And it seemed the snail caught herself a dragon, too."

"That's what happens when you crave for things to be true, you fucking invent them."

"Impossibility is a false construct. All is possible."

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

an unexpected emotional journey

I by no means expected what I got out of this book. I expected some fluffy romcom with aliens and adjustments.

What I got was the example of a poly relationship that isn’t perfect. And as an avid poly/reverse harem fan. It was very nice to see and actual struggle to come together to see them work through their weaknesses and strengths.

Definitely not what I was expecting, but I’m not complaining, I just hope that the author continues the momentum through the second book and into the third. The middle Book always is a struggle

[Unleishd_reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was well-written with some strong moments, but the genre just wasn’t for me (I tried! But aliens just didn’t do it for me). While it didn’t fully click for me, I can appreciate the creativity and effort put into the story. The FMC is strong and fierce and all the characters were well developed.
I think I’ll give it another go round when I’m in a different head space to see if it clicks a bit more for me.
Thank you so much to Gigi for the opportunity to read the ARC…I’ll be back.

[Tara Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic story

OMG! This book is just ugh, so so good! The story and world building is phenomenal. I couldn’t put it down! The FMC Nala is so relatable, down to her reading habits even. Her relationships with all her men is so fun to see, they each have a different personality and yet they all mesh so well together. That cliffhanger is criminal and I’m so glad book 2 just released.

[Emmy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down...

I went in expecting a fluffy, fun, alien dating game show-esque story (I only read the title-sorry). And it started that way, before going full on political intrigue and Nala, regular human from earth, becoming something else entirely. I devoured this in about 2 days, it was so hard to put it down.

[Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ate this up. I am SO ready to delve into a sequel and it isn’t even out yet 😭 The devastation I felt that I couldn’t stay in the universe or storyline because the sequel isn’t published BROKE MY HEART (in the best way). I LOVED THIS BOOK

[Kiara Sibila · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an addicting book to read. The amount of times I laughed out loud is more than I can count. Nala has such a fun personality. I love how each relationship she has is special. The way Gigi wrote all the scenes make you fall into that world. You’ll love this book if you like fierce and funny FMC, why choose, lots and lots of spice and fantasy world you can get lost in. I cannot wait to read book 2! (It does end on a cliffhanger)

[Shelby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Gosh.
I LOVED THIS BOOK. Gigi knows how to do aliens 😮‍💨. To make them “human” in their emotions too.
It’s long past due that we had a planetary book!
The smut is so good!
If you like matchmaking shows you’ll love this!!

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am leaving an honest review as an ARC reader. It was such a privilege to be able to read Fated by Frenzy before its release.

It was very well written and I thoroughly enjoyed the story. There were some plot twists and surprises that I was definitely not expecting. The characters are great and so lovable.

I can’t wait for this book to be released officially because everyone should read it.

[Annie✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want a FMC you can really relate to, then this book is for you!

I loved everything about the story. It was funny, made me angry at times and I even cried!

If I could get sucked into the book, then I would 100% volunteer! Because getting all these men swooning and drooling over me? Heck yeah! But I wouldn’t be able to choose just one… I would collect them like Pokémon 😂
Gotta catch them all! 👀

Absolutely enjoyed this book and I am so grateful for the ARC 🫶🏻

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to @sunnybabepr and @gigi.zarbi for sending me this book for the opportunity to review it! 💌

I love this book. Like, seriously obsessed. But also lowkey had no idea what was going on for the first 100 pages… in the best way possible 🤣. You’re dropped (well rifted) into this chaotic, twisty universe and it’s like, “strap in babe, we’re going for a ride.” And WHAT a ride it is.

This book is a fucking rollercoaster—holy shit. One second I’m laughing out loud, the next I’m clutching my chest like a Victorian widow. So much is happening but it never feels overwhelming because we’re learning it all alongside Nala, our chaotic, relatable, anxious lil’ main character. You feel every emotion with her and it’s addictive.

Despite being on the longer side, I didn’t get bored once. Not even for a second. There was never a moment where I thought, “gosh, why am I still reading?” because the pace just goes. It’s twisty, spicy, and has this fun little undercurrent of thriller energy woven through all the fated mate madness.

I genuinely didn’t realise how badly I needed this book until I was halfway through screaming internally. It’s sexy, weird, violent, funny, and unhinged in the most delicious way. If I could give it 6 stars, I absolutely would.

And yes… I bought book 2 immediately after finishing. 👀💸

Trigger warnings: explicit language, anxious, depressed, + sometimes stressed MC’s, explicit sexual depictions: rough consensual sex + forked tongues + orgies + breeding kinks + bondage + light electrocution play + several hand necklaces, non-consensual stalking, lying between MC’s, traumatic recollections: assault + domestic abuse + familial discord + religious pressures + familial death + scientific testing, gory depictions: murder + duelling + multiple mentions of blood + boatloads of biting, cliffhanger ending, if the mention of earthly religions being false perturbs, this probably isn’t the romantasy read for you. the fmc is anti-organised religion. from a spice perspective, these books are hot 🔥 or 6-8 out of 10. from a dark romance perspective, these books are grey 🩶 or 3-5 out of 10.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

“You will be matched with what you might consider to be aliens or monsters, more accurately, shifters." This is supposed to be a warning? They don't know us reader girlies like Nala, WHERE'S MY PEN?!

This was such a fun and unique rom-com! Nala is a funny and strong FMC with lots of love to give (and from a hometown just up the street from me!) I'm normally not into the why choose but I get why Nala wants all of the men she meets through the pairing program. And each of them brings their own unique personalities and fills a role in their little family. There was a little of the prestige and world building I didn't fully understand but, that in no way detracted from the story. I mean what's not to love? This story has it all; faes, dragons, magical powers, fated mates, protective hot men and never forget, Piggly Wiggly!

I don't want to spoil anything but, know that I am on pins and needles waiting for the next book after that cliffhanger and can't to read how the crew fully band together to save each other!

[River · Rating 2 out of 5]

Honestly, skip it

The FMC is irrational at all times throughout the entire book. Being hunted by vampires? Of course she throws a fit and wants to go out alone. A literal Goddess hates you? Cry about having to move to a new city. Destiny is using you to put the world's back into balance? Better go cry in a corner about not getting everything she wants right when she wants it. Her emotional maturity is at the level of a teen yet she is in her 30's

[Song Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holy moly! A book so good and chock full of fantastic imagery and storytelling I read it twice! Nightingale (Nala) Williams 32 year old waitress is abducted from her job and brought to Neptune to participate in the Planetary Pairing Program. She says her favorite color is purple and is given a home in the purple sector of Thalla. Her purple smart home is fitting with "Homie" her AI personal assistant. Her expenses are funded by the males that have shown interest in her as part of the Planetary Pairing Program.

The world-building in this novel is *Chef’s Kiss* so good. The descriptions of the different cities Thalla, Ookea, Gro and Bahasa all sound like incredible resort towns in their own ways. You really feel like Nala is on vacation from her humdrum boring life on earth. I love the interpretation of the different pantheon deities trickling down to the different planets.
There are six shifter suitors that are interested in her. A multicultural cast of MC’s which was really refreshing and consciously approached with care and dignity. Most of the book is from Nala’s perspective, with 2 chapters each from her chosen mates.

*Light Spoilers ahead*

Yu-Jin Rapax is Nala’s first date, he is a “Zoatala” classification, he is a sweet anxious politician shark shifter. Ryloh Cabbage is Nalla’s third date, he is a Fae( though even the character isn't completely sure about his classification) is an electricity-wielding shifter of unknown origins who has more of the “Dark Romance” elements with a dubious consent scenario. Though the character is morally grey and initially there is a lot of bad blood between him, Jin and Timos which causes Nala distress when she realizes how much she actually likes him. But as the story progresses we find that he has a lot of heart actually and will do anything to please Nala as she is his soulmate. Timoset Nala’s second date is a quiet, stoic, kind of shy, powerful, nearly indestructible dragon who is used to people being afraid of him. But his hard shell cracks apart as Nala nerds out and wants to learn everything about him. Avexeidros (Nala’s last date) is a Turnu- powerful serpent who is adorably obsessed with Nala. He does some light stalking and a bit of memory wiping but not for any nefarious reasons.

Both Avexi and Timos have “God” status levels of prestige that puts targets on Nala’s back because of the enemies they have accrued over thousands of years. Their main adversary Malice and her amoroso Dimitros have been lying in wait for the movement Timoset found his amoroso so they can finally kill him.

Watching the group find their footing to become a well fitted polycule felt incredibly honest. Greta polyam representation as well as mental health representation as well. The moments when Nala sinks into a numb depressive state were so heartbreakingly relatable. It was really enjoyable to have this wonderfully sci-fi/ fantasy story still grounded in reality regarding mental health and family (and found family) dynamics. There are "love scenes" in the book as she gets to know the different males. But not so many that it becomes distracting from the story. I'd say the spice level is about 3 out of 5. It does end with a STEEP cliffhanger, but it just means that the resolution to the problems that crop up towards the end doesn't feel rushed to find a mediocre conclusion. I absolutely can not wait for the second book. All in all Fated Frenzy is a rocking start to what will be a fantastic series. If you love shifter/ alien romances definitely give this book a shot!

[TheBookishSkull · Rating 4 out of 5]

This books is a fun, spicy, and imaginative romantasy that captivates from the first page. The Planetary Pairing Program is an ingenious concept that keeps the story fresh and exciting. The illustrations included in the book enhance the immersive experience, bringing the world to life in a whole new way. The cliffhanger ending? It left me wanting more!

When presented with the opportunity to join the Planetary Pairing Program, Nala dives in headfirst, bringing her wit, humor, and unapologetic self to a world of immortal shifters and magical beings. The six suitors vying for Nala’s affection are as diverse as they are intriguing. Each brings unique qualities to the table, from smoldering intensity to unexpected sweetness. I wasn’t sure what to expect with the whole “multiple mates” thing, but now I totally get the hype and I need more!

It’s a very spicy book, but weirdly…I wanted more spice. When the heat actually happens, I felt like it could’ve gone even further. Still, the concept and world-building were chef’s kiss.

Thanks to Sunny Babe PR and Gigi Zarbi for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

—————————

Este libro es una novela romántica de fantasía divertida, picante e imaginativa que cautiva desde la primera página. El Programa de Emparejamiento Planetario es un concepto ingenioso que mantiene la historia fresca y emocionante. Las ilustraciones incluidas en el libro realzan la experiencia inmersiva, dando vida al mundo de una forma completamente nueva. ¿El final de suspense? ¡Me dejó con ganas de más!

Cuando se le presenta la oportunidad de unirse al Programa de Emparejamiento Planetario, Nala se lanza de cabeza, aportando su ingenio, humor y descaro a un mundo de cambiaformas inmortales y seres mágicos. Los seis pretendientes que compiten por el afecto de Nala son tan diversos como intrigantes. Cada uno aporta cualidades únicas, desde una intensidad abrasadora hasta una dulzura inesperada. No estaba segura de qué esperar con todo el tema de las "parejas múltiples", pero ahora entiendo perfectamente el revuelo y ¡necesito más!

Es un libro muy picante, pero extrañamente... quería que lo fuera aún más. Cuando el picante se intensificaba, sentí que podría haber ido aún más lejos. Aun así, el concepto y la creación del mundo fueron una maravilla.

Gracias a Sunny Babe PR y Gigi Zarbi por el ARC a cambio de mi reseña sincera.

[Leigha Lennon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fated Frenzy by Gigi Zarbi is a wildly imaginative and exhilarating blend of romance, fantasy, and laugh-out-loud moments that will sweep you off your feet and leave you desperate for more. With a refreshingly relatable heroine, six (maybe only five...) swoon-worthy shifter bachelors, and an out-of-this-world dating adventure, this book is a rollercoaster of emotions that’s impossible to put down.

Nala is the ultimate bookish heroine—fierce, hilarious, and unapologetically herself. Her sharp wit and quirky personality make her instantly relatable, especially for anyone who’s ever chosen fictional boyfriends over the dating scene. When she’s offered the chance to join the Planetary Pairing Program, she dives in headfirst, and what unfolds is nothing short of spectacular.

The six immortal shifters vying for her heart are as intriguing as they are captivating. Each one brings something unique to the table, from smoldering intensity to unexpected sweetness, and their monstrous forms add a thrilling edge to the romance. The dynamic between Nala and her suitors is electric, with moments of sizzling chemistry, heartfelt vulnerability, and plenty of playful banter that will keep you turning the pages.

Zarbi’s world-building is lush and imaginative, pulling you into a magical planet where the stakes are as high as the romance. The Planetary Pairing Program is an ingenious concept, and the rules, fine print, and unexpected twists keep the story fresh and exciting.

What sets Fated Frenzy apart is its perfect balance of humor, heart, and heat. Zarbi seamlessly blends lighthearted, laugh-out-loud moments with deeply emotional and romantic scenes, creating a story that feels both magical and grounded. The cliffhanger ending will leave you gasping and counting down the days until the next book.

If you’re a fan of fantasy romance with bold heroines, unconventional love stories, and richly crafted worlds, Fated Frenzy is a five-star must-read. Gigi Zarbi has delivered a fresh and addictive story that will stay with you long after the last page. Prepare to fall in love—again and again!

[Spiced Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fated Frenzy 🪐

Author: Gigi Zarbi
Genres: SciFi, Reversed Harem
Published: December 6, 2024
Pages: 554
Format read: Epub

Triggers: Stalking, Murder, Panic Attacks, Death, Infidelity, Misogyny, Cursing, Physical Abuse, Religious Bigotry, Medical trauma

Quick Thoughts: This was such a fun read! A little bit of a wild ride, but so fun!

This book was an ARC and given to me for free.
All reviews are entirely honest and my own opinion.

Rating: 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Characters: 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Plot: 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

When I started Fated Frenzy I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. And I think that this book was all the better for it. This definitely is a read you should go in without any expectations.

From the moment that I started this book I just kept reading. I was eating this book up! It was very unique and I really liked the plot; a sci-fi dating show, with a fantasy twist. There are dragons, vampires, fae, shifters, all of the good things! It just sucked me in and didn’t let me go.

There is quite an intense world-building in this book. At some points, it was just a little bit too much information for my brain to handle. But overall, Gigi managed to sprinkle the information around pretty nicely.

That being said, there were a few points in the book where it felt a little disjointed. I felt a bit of confusion as a reader, too much new things being introduced in a too short of a timespan. This kept the book from being a full five stars for me and knocked it down to a four stars. That didn’t mean I didn’t enjoy it, but sometimes you need to stop and re-read something because it is just a bit confusing. The ending was also just a tad too fast for my liking, making my brain do summersaults in an attempt to follow it all.

Nala was a very like-able main character and I really enjoyed her. She felt like a strong female lead. But what I liked most about her character was the fact that our girl was 30+. There simply are not enough female lead characters in romance novels that are over 30, and I was absolutely gobbling that fact up in this book. From time to time I found myself questioning Nala’s decisions, but I think that makes her more real. She wasn’t perfect, she made mistakes, and that really sold her personality for me.

Fated Frenzy brings you multiple love interests. But the surprising thing about this why-choose reversed harem was that it didn’t go the route that I was expecting it to go. That was a really pleasant surprise and made me very curious about the rest of the book!

Gigi has a very casual writing style that is fast paced and fun to read. It definitely is right up my alley, and I am pretty picky about what writing styles I like. English isn’t my first language, and this was very easy to read. The book didn’t feel like 500+ pages long, as I skated through it pretty quickly. A very enjoyable read, where you can definitely pick your favourite love interest.

Good bits
- Intense world-building
- FMC is not perfect, and that makes her so GOOD
- The female main is 30+
- Took a direction that I was not expecting
- Fast burn
- Reversed harem and Fated Mates
- Such an unique plot; a sci-fi dating show
- Fast paced and easy writing style
- Diverse cast!

Bad bits
- A little too much information on a few occasions
- Felt a little disjointed at times

If you are looking for a book that sucks you in and doesn’t let you go, and you are a lover of fast burn, fated mates, reversed harems, than you should definitely give this book a go! Just take your time, because some parts can get a little complicated. But it is a very enjoyable book!

[Amanda (amanda.always.reading) Magdic · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had such a creative spin on the "why choose" genre. I enjoyed how in depth the descriptions and world building were from the fantasy aspect. You could easily visualize yourself on the planets. I also really liked how our FMC Nala was such an avid reader, especially of the smutty monster kind of novels. Making a nice tie in to how easily she acquiesces to her new surroundings and situation. As well, each of the male suitors as they were all have such different, distinctive personalities, on top of their different classifications. Creating a well rounded and balanced group. I don't know that I could pick a favorite of the four, but Jin was definitely my least favorite, even if he was Nala's. He was just way to whiny for me.

Where the book loses points for me is few sticking points. One of them being the beyond instant insta love. We're talking minutes here not days. And complete infatuation. Even though it is somewhat explained later in the book, it was still just a little too over the top. Length is another thing. I would frequently find myself looking at the percentage read and thinking it had to be further along than that. I did have my suspicions early in the book about the twist near the end, just not the full scope of it. So that was a pleasant surprise.

A few other points in favour of the book: it included a glossary/ pronunciation/ classification guide right at the beginning. I wish this happened more in complexly layered fantasy books. The spice level was steamy. The body positivity and the racial ambiguity. That ending left me wanting more. Overall a solid attempt for a debut novel.

Thank you to SunnyBabePr for my copy in return for an honest review.

[Chante Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get ready to be blown away! This book is absolutely incredible, and I've discovered a new favorite author.

Meet Nala, our lead female character who's whisked away to another planet and thrust into an interstellar dating program. She's got six potential partners vying for her attention: Timoset Drago, the intimidating bad boy everyone fears (but not Nala!), Yu-Jin, a total sweetheart from the moment you meet him, Ryloh, a wild and unpredictable suitor, Chadwick, the well i wont spoil his character, and lastly, Zaire, the quiet, funny, and mysterious one.

The writing is phenomenal, so descriptive and immersive. The cheat sheet and classification guide are fantastic resources that quickly help you understand this incredible world. You'll feel completely immersed in this detailed world, and you'll be rooting for each character as they grow and evolve, even when they're bickering with each other.

The banter is next level, hilarious, and oh-so-funny! I found myself laughing out loud at lines like this:

"I croaked, even the objectophillia novellas.....even the balloon smut"

This book has everything, from kidnapping, spice, mystery, political angst, secrets, to betrayl, shifters, gods and that cliffhanger!

From the very first page, I couldn't put it down. Now I'm completely hooked and NEED the next book, like, yesterday! If I could give more than 5 stars I would.

[Mariette De kock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fated Frenzy by Gigi Zarbi

📚Book 1: Planetary Pairing Program Aqua series

Tropes:
🛸Why choose
🛸 Shifters
🛸 Fated mates
🛸 Human FMC & Shifter MMCS
🛸 Fast burn
🛸Insta Love

Fated Frenzy is a romantasy/sci-fi/paranormal novel. The book follows Nala, She is thirty-two, single, and kidnapped to live on Neptune. She is entered into the plant's matchmaking program where she has five dates with the hope to find true love. But it comes with conditions.

This was a long read with a lot of info. It feels like a high fantasy but sci-fi. It took a bit to get use to everything as it plays of on Neptune with different species. I enjoyed the world building as it was easy to picture every. I love the characters, we are slowly introducing to them and it was amazing. It is an insta love story with spice.

I enjoyed that the Nala was not perfect. She has anxiety, depression and struggles through everything she goes though. She doesn’t just except everything. I love all the MMC and how we get to know all of them. Each has their own unique personalities and identities. Nothing is the same.

This book had me gasping, giggling and swooning. There is a lot that happens but it was so good. The book ended on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to read the next book!! If you like why choose, sci-fi, paranormal romance and a long story . This book is for you. Also who doesn't like monsters shifting?

Thank you Sunny Babe PR and Gigi Zarbi for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Regina Sage · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: My sincerest gratitude to the author for the digital ARC! My opinions are my own.

This book was what I'd call a fantastic romp--lots of spicy scenes packed into a fun and playful world. It starts out pretty low-stakes and feels very cozy... and remains cozy as the stakes are raised at the end!

I'm in awe of the depth of world building, and that Zarbi so expertly tracked that through all the lovers. The book is pretty long, Zarbi did not skimp on certain details. Which is awesome, because even with all the details, I still wanted more world building and character backstories. Honestly, I am so excited to see what the next book will give us, and I can't wait to learn more.

Nala was pretty unlikable at times, but it made her so realistic. To me, this story is less about her and more about how she manages the males, and how they together navigate the world. Timos is 10/10 my favorite. The positive sex work rep was refreshing!

That plot twist at the end really hit me. I was not prepared, was genuinely surprised. That is so rare for me! Props to Zarbi for that, for sure. Minus a star because of the cliffhanger. I really wish it had left me feeling happier, but it definitely made me anxious for the next book.

Shout out to the illustrator for such cute contributions!

[Kristina Brutsch · Rating 5 out of 5]

What to expect:
❤️ Fated mates
💫 dragons, vamps, fae (shifters)
❤️ reverse harem
💫 multiple POV

"You have been selected to partake in a matchmaking Program which our Queen began over a century ago. If you find your match, a mate, then you are granted their immortality to live the rest of your lives together.”

Nala Nightingale Williams was plucked from Earth to Neptune to participate in an intergalactic matchmaking program. This is such a wild ride for anyone to be given an opportunity to find love on another planet. She immediately accepted the terms without question and wasn't frightened at all.

"Accept the males. Fulfill your destiny. Remain vigilant, Primordial of Balance."

She has to go on dates with 6 different guys and then decide which ones she would like to be with. Compared to Earth, when you choose just one companion. ON Neptune, you are allowed to be in a polyamorous relationship with 3 males. But somehow a 4th one snuck up on them and now they have to find a way to all stay together.

This was such an interesting read and quite different. It combined romantasy with comedy that gave the FMC more power over these men. They would kneel at her feet and do anything to keep her safe. She has become the only thing worth protecting and as long as they are together, then that's all that matters. It's crazy how fast Nala has fallen for each and every male.

[beware.thereader Cam Henao · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gigi Zarbi is a talented romance author whose book "Fated Frenzy" captivated me from the very first chapter. Although the book is somewhat lengthy, I found the experience thoroughly enjoyable. The author’s humor shines through her writing, making it both engaging and entertaining. She excels at creating relatable characters that you can’t help but love. As a "why choose?" romance, the story kept me laughing while keeping me on the edge of my seat. This book has made it into my top 10 reads of 2024. The unique storytelling and character development successfully draw the reader in, and the artwork featured in each chapter offers an additional captivating experience. The characters were well-developed, showcasing their flaws and allowing for noticeable growth throughout the narrative. Additionally, the story presented a unique retelling involving gods, titans, demons, dragons, and other supernatural elements, making it a refreshing addition to the genre. Overall, it was an impressive read that stood out for its creativity and depth.  This book is an exhilarating fantasy adventure! It ends on a thrilling cliffhanger that leaves you craving more. I can’t wait to dive into the rest of the series!

[Sarah Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Did not finish book. Stopped at 60%.
1. Ridiculous pacing. Saying "I love you" after literally a day?? I held out to the halfway point, thinking there'd be an explanation for the ridiculous immediate "love" but just couldn't keep reading so much cringe.
2. FMC also went from telling one character, "I know you'll never hurt me," to saying he was dangerous without any explanation. So much inconsistency. And exposition used to tell us stuff about the FMC instead of showing it to us through her actions.
3. Reads like a teeny bopper because of the FMC's immaturity. I was so disappointed because a 30+ FMC is a rarity. Too bad she was just like a 20 year-old.
4. Fated mates/ destiny is not expressed consent. Internal monologues about interest in kinky stuff is not consent. And I absolutely hate when a man says, "But I know you wanted it," etc. Authors, please quit perpetuating this rape culture talking point.
5. Oh, and men are called males, but women are femmes? What if the woman isn't feminine? Because, fyi, femme stems from the lesbian community and referred to lesbians that follow traditional feminine beauty standards. Feels like an attempt at inclusion via world building, but lands flat and actually regressive.

[sycokittykat - Stefanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome to Neptune where you will be mated to monsters

Nala is a typical human woman though she lives with her parents and never really enjoyed life unless she was traveling. When some weirdo grabs her and drugs her she wakes up with no idea what is going on.

Well it turns out she is now on Neptune and she is being offered a chance to find her mate or mates. She will have everything paid for and get to meet six gorgeous men who are all interested in her. Oh and she can pick up to three of these men to bond with.

Well it turns out that several of these men only agreed because there was something about Nala they were drawn too. Now its time to discover the different magic and creatures that reside on Neptune.

From her very first date Mama knows this man us unlike any she has ever dated before and she us ecstatic. Each date brings another new revelation about herself and the men she could bond with.

This book was absolutely fascinating. I love each of the unique men and even their challenges within the harem. The normally crimeless planet has had some issues and these certainly bring a lot to light.

That ending was a terrible cliffhanger and now I need to see what's next for this group.