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Rogue Bonds #1
Kade: Accidentally Bonded
Growing up on Rendol 4, Aiden Hill only ever wanted to help better his planet. Now a lieutenant in the Alliance Military, he is doing just that, defending the population from space pirates, slave traders and a rogue species fighting them for colonisation rights of the planet.
But during a mission gone awry, Aiden stumbles upon Kade, a brainwashed slave who immediately imprints on him and declares Aiden to be his master. But slavery in the Alliance is strictly forbidden, leaving Aiden attempting to rehabilitate his unexpected charge, despite Kade’s obvious reluctance to cooperate.
Kade has waited for years to meet his master, the man he can devote himself to for the rest of his life. But when they finally meet, his master seems oddly reluctant to make use of Kade’s many skills – including his skills in the bedroom! Instead of giving him orders, his master insists that Kade should make his own decisions and express opinions that conflict with his master’s desires.
A slave without a master is like a boat without a sail; directionless and destined to be swept up by the storms of life. But for Aiden to treat Kade as the slave he insists he is would be a moral travesty, defying both Alliance law and his own conscience. So how can the two of them ever find a middle ground, when the life Kade so ardently wants is one that Aiden finds so abhorrent?
Contains frequent military-style violence.
But during a mission gone awry, Aiden stumbles upon Kade, a brainwashed slave who immediately imprints on him and declares Aiden to be his master. But slavery in the Alliance is strictly forbidden, leaving Aiden attempting to rehabilitate his unexpected charge, despite Kade’s obvious reluctance to cooperate.
Kade has waited for years to meet his master, the man he can devote himself to for the rest of his life. But when they finally meet, his master seems oddly reluctant to make use of Kade’s many skills – including his skills in the bedroom! Instead of giving him orders, his master insists that Kade should make his own decisions and express opinions that conflict with his master’s desires.
A slave without a master is like a boat without a sail; directionless and destined to be swept up by the storms of life. But for Aiden to treat Kade as the slave he insists he is would be a moral travesty, defying both Alliance law and his own conscience. So how can the two of them ever find a middle ground, when the life Kade so ardently wants is one that Aiden finds so abhorrent?
Contains frequent military-style violence.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 23, 2024
119 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
About the author
Laura Taylor
24 books98 followersLaura Taylor is a pseudonym for Gabriel Danes. Gabriel is a bisexual, transgender writer of fantasy and romance novels. He likes watching ice hockey, reading about vampires and werewolves, cooking, and has fantasies of one day becoming a firefighter.
Gabriel lives on the South Coast of New South Wales, Australia.
Gabriel lives on the South Coast of New South Wales, Australia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
August 28, 2025
The premise: During a mission gone awry, Aiden stumbles upon Kade, a brainwashed slave who immediately imprints on him and declares Aiden to be his master.
A solid mix of sci-fi action and angsty romance. I liked the tension between Kade’s need for structure and devotion versus Aiden’s refusal to treat him as a slave. Kade believes he needs (structure, ownership, purpose) and what Aiden feels is right (freedom, autonomy, equality). Sometimes the push-pull felt frustrating, but overall, I enjoyed this storytelling.
Tropes/Themes:
Gay sci-fi (human/alien)
Rescued slave
Fated bond/imprinting
Forced proximity
Strangers to lovers
Military environment
Found family
Hurt/comfort
The best quote and friend telling Aiden the hard truth.
Aiden, he’s telling you what makes him happy. He’s literally saying, ‘I am happy when my master is happy’. But then you’re discounting that by saying that you would not be happy to live under those conditions. So do you actually want to make him happy, or do you want to find a way to make him conform to Alliance standards so that you feel better about it?”
The audiobook is narrated by the author, and done well.
A solid mix of sci-fi action and angsty romance. I liked the tension between Kade’s need for structure and devotion versus Aiden’s refusal to treat him as a slave. Kade believes he needs (structure, ownership, purpose) and what Aiden feels is right (freedom, autonomy, equality). Sometimes the push-pull felt frustrating, but overall, I enjoyed this storytelling.
Tropes/Themes:
Gay sci-fi (human/alien)
Rescued slave
Fated bond/imprinting
Forced proximity
Strangers to lovers
Military environment
Found family
Hurt/comfort
The best quote and friend telling Aiden the hard truth.
Aiden, he’s telling you what makes him happy. He’s literally saying, ‘I am happy when my master is happy’. But then you’re discounting that by saying that you would not be happy to live under those conditions. So do you actually want to make him happy, or do you want to find a way to make him conform to Alliance standards so that you feel better about it?”
The audiobook is narrated by the author, and done well.
October 6, 2025
⭐️ 5 stars ⭐️
Aiden accidentally bonded with a dimari. Now he has to learn how to keep him happy.
I feel ridiculous giving five stars to an alien romance with a cover like that, but OMG this was so fun and sexy.
I loved seeing Aiden slowly trying to get to know Kade, them figuring out their unexpected ‘master/slave’ relationship.
Just the fact that it’s alien slave vs human master was such a different take from the usual.
And that spice? Aiden was all dominating and sexy, Kade subservient and wanting to please, and the praise, the want, the love.
For what seemed at first glance to be just a sexy alien sci-fi romance, it actually had a pretty complex world-building. There was a whole political sub-plot and a variety of species and characters.
I’m so intrigued by this world, and I’m looking forward to reading more of this series. Starting right now, probably. Most definitely. I’ve already got book two open.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Master/slave dynamic
- Human vs alien
- Accidental bonding
- Dub-con/power imbalance
- Military MCs
- Death/violence
- Light D/s dynamic
- Top/bottom
- Orgasm control
- Praise
- Shower sex
I braced myself for an attack, even as my tired brain scrambled for a reason why a man would be standing alone inside a shipping container. “Master,” a husky voice breathed.
Aiden accidentally bonded with a dimari. Now he has to learn how to keep him happy.
I feel ridiculous giving five stars to an alien romance with a cover like that, but OMG this was so fun and sexy.
He wanted to shower… with me?
I loved seeing Aiden slowly trying to get to know Kade, them figuring out their unexpected ‘master/slave’ relationship.
Just the fact that it’s alien slave vs human master was such a different take from the usual.
And that spice? Aiden was all dominating and sexy, Kade subservient and wanting to please, and the praise, the want, the love.
Stars, my master was wonderful.
For what seemed at first glance to be just a sexy alien sci-fi romance, it actually had a pretty complex world-building. There was a whole political sub-plot and a variety of species and characters.
I’m so intrigued by this world, and I’m looking forward to reading more of this series. Starting right now, probably. Most definitely. I’ve already got book two open.
“You belong here, Kade,” he said, as he stroked my hair in the darkness. “I’m not going to let anyone take you from me.”
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Master/slave dynamic
- Human vs alien
- Accidental bonding
- Dub-con/power imbalance
- Military MCs
- Death/violence
- Light D/s dynamic
- Top/bottom
- Orgasm control
- Praise
- Shower sex
December 31, 2024
3.5 stars ⭐️ hmmm….i found the complexities of the dimari and other species interesting, but ultimately they ended up giving the book more of a think-piece vibe than a romance one. so my romance cravings weren’t met, the the sci-fi side of things, including the world building, was quite captivating, at least enough for me to binge this in one sitting….i’m super curious to learn more about this world and its species and who will be the next couple👀
January 4, 2025
this is not a review, but a warning for those who will come after me: this is NOT a romance, but a slave fantasy. proceed at your own risk.
April 12, 2025
Laura Taylor books are comfort reads for me, even when I'm reading them for the first time. I like the way she writes and the way she tackles difficult subjects with thoughtfulness. I really liked this book and I'm going straight for book 2 next :)
dnf
October 30, 2025DNF@97%
Big sci-fi.
Little romance.
Didn't work for me just because it's not my preferred reading material.
Big sci-fi.
Little romance.
Didn't work for me just because it's not my preferred reading material.
August 8, 2025
This was not at all what I expected, but I enjoyed it quite a bit. I was expecting a romance and what I got was a science fiction story with a little romance on the side. At first I wasn’t sure that I liked it, but it certainly grew on me and by the end I loved both Aiden and Cade. I was also thoroughly engrossed in the story. If you like science fiction I highly recommend it. If you’re just looking for a love story between a slave and his master you might be disappointed. However, give it a chance. It is quite entertaining.
June 1, 2025
A new favorite! In reading the summary, I thought I was going to get one of those types of books where slavery is titillating. Instead, Laura Taylor dives into the ethical dilemmas and ends up somewhere you might not expect. So what most liked about the book was how it seriously treated different cultural expectations and the consequences of miscommunication.
What helped along the way were the action scenes, sci-fi world building, and super hot sex scenes.
I would love to read more!
What helped along the way were the action scenes, sci-fi world building, and super hot sex scenes.
I would love to read more!
June 15, 2025
4.5⭐️ 3.5🌶️
📝 Review & thoughts:
Not exactly what I expected but I was pleasantly surprised.
It’s full of action and adventure, with an interesting plot and world building. It definitely took a very interesting and thought provoking stake on specific issues with sl*very of another race that I was not expecting but really enjoyed as it was different from what I’ve read before.
My favorite chapters were the ones in Kade’s pov. My heart broke in some of his reasonings and misunderstandings when it came to Aiden.
This is a master x sl*ve story that takes a different route from the usual (for my limited reading with this trope so far that is). It took an interesting route that I was not expecting but I was still happy with.
To enjoy this you need to read it with an open mind, if you can do that and be comfortable with the set up, I totally recommend it.
🏷️ Tropes & tags (possible spoilers):
MM
Sci-fi romance
Master (human) x sl*ve (alien)
Forced proximity
Strangers to lovers
Military environment
POV: 1st person, dual
Angst: low
Vibe: adventurous
Pet names: Master, Sir
HEA: yes with its limitations (HFN)
🌶️ Spice & k!nks (possible spoilers):
M/s (D/s), dom!nation, bareback, praise
Strict top/bottom or versatile: strict top/bottom
Heat: 6 scenes, medium heat
⚠️ Content warnings (possible spoilers):
Dubcon: yes (only because of the sl*ve thing)
Noncon: no
Themes of sl*very
💬 Quotes (possible spoilers):
“I need you to explain to me why you’re rejecting me, I wanted to say to him. I want to understand what I did wrong. Humans did not understand the way dimari worked, I reminded myself. My master had said as much. But if he did not understand, and I could not explain, how were we ever going to make this work?”
“Front and centre, Aiden, he’s telling you what makes him happy. He’s literally saying, ‘I am happy when my master is happy’. But then you’re discounting that by saying that you would not be happy to live under those conditions. So do you actually want to make him happy, or do you want to find a way to make him conform to Alliance standards so that you feel better about it?”
* Fyi about 🌶️ levels: I rate spice on a combination of quantity, quality, length, intensity and explicitness of the scenes. K!nks are listed separately and generally do not directly affect the steam level to keep it fair for non k!nky books.
📝 Review & thoughts:
Not exactly what I expected but I was pleasantly surprised.
It’s full of action and adventure, with an interesting plot and world building. It definitely took a very interesting and thought provoking stake on specific issues with sl*very of another race that I was not expecting but really enjoyed as it was different from what I’ve read before.
My favorite chapters were the ones in Kade’s pov. My heart broke in some of his reasonings and misunderstandings when it came to Aiden.
This is a master x sl*ve story that takes a different route from the usual (for my limited reading with this trope so far that is). It took an interesting route that I was not expecting but I was still happy with.
To enjoy this you need to read it with an open mind, if you can do that and be comfortable with the set up, I totally recommend it.
🏷️ Tropes & tags (possible spoilers):
MM
Sci-fi romance
Master (human) x sl*ve (alien)
Forced proximity
Strangers to lovers
Military environment
POV: 1st person, dual
Angst: low
Vibe: adventurous
Pet names: Master, Sir
HEA: yes with its limitations (HFN)
🌶️ Spice & k!nks (possible spoilers):
M/s (D/s), dom!nation, bareback, praise
Strict top/bottom or versatile: strict top/bottom
Heat: 6 scenes, medium heat
⚠️ Content warnings (possible spoilers):
Dubcon: yes (only because of the sl*ve thing)
Noncon: no
Themes of sl*very
💬 Quotes (possible spoilers):
“I need you to explain to me why you’re rejecting me, I wanted to say to him. I want to understand what I did wrong. Humans did not understand the way dimari worked, I reminded myself. My master had said as much. But if he did not understand, and I could not explain, how were we ever going to make this work?”
“Front and centre, Aiden, he’s telling you what makes him happy. He’s literally saying, ‘I am happy when my master is happy’. But then you’re discounting that by saying that you would not be happy to live under those conditions. So do you actually want to make him happy, or do you want to find a way to make him conform to Alliance standards so that you feel better about it?”
* Fyi about 🌶️ levels: I rate spice on a combination of quantity, quality, length, intensity and explicitness of the scenes. K!nks are listed separately and generally do not directly affect the steam level to keep it fair for non k!nky books.
December 10, 2024
Fabulous world building, tidy and action packed plot with some light intrigue, and fascinating moral discussions. This is everything I love about speculative sci if in a supremely well written mm romance package, served to you with sides of adventure. I would have read 500 more pages of this. This terrible cover hides a truly excellent book, and I will be looking for more from Laura Taylor!
December 9, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
This was really interesting 😊 I loved the world building and how both characters were willing to learn about each other.
This book focuses more on the world and the plot than the romance, which I was not expecting from the title and the cover x), but I had a really good time with it 😊
...
Narrator: Gabriel Danes
This was really interesting 😊 I loved the world building and how both characters were willing to learn about each other.
This book focuses more on the world and the plot than the romance, which I was not expecting from the title and the cover x), but I had a really good time with it 😊
...
Narrator: Gabriel Danes
December 28, 2025
3.5 stars
December 20, 2024
4.25 stars ✨ Love the world building and hope there is another book in this universe!
November 26, 2024
This book handles a difficult subject remarkably well with plenty of nuances. Kade was trained from a young age to be a slave for his new master. Shipped for transport to his "owner" instead his container crash lands on another planet. Aiden is a military officer charged with investigating the landing site debris for salvageable materials. Caught under fire, he opens a container and comes across Kade. Kade immediately imprints on Aiden, believing him to be his new master.
Aiden has a difficult time with an imprinted slave. His culture rejects slave trade totally and he is highly uncomfortable with the concept. Still, he knows that many of these slave that inadvertently land on their planet succumb to suicide within several years. He decides to study the situation in depth with the aim to make sure Kade is happy and comfortable.
It immediately becomes clear that Kade is highly trained in military skills. He joins Aiden in his unit after being interviewed, tested, and trained to their methods. Still, Aiden struggles to deal with Kade at home as his master. He reluctantly accepts that it is mandatory that he shows Kade affection, friendship, and closeness to keep Kade fulfilled.
In the meantime, there are dangerous missions, political intrigue, and new faces. This book has detailed world-building, complex storylines, evolving personalities, and a beautiful love. I hope to see more from this world!
Aiden has a difficult time with an imprinted slave. His culture rejects slave trade totally and he is highly uncomfortable with the concept. Still, he knows that many of these slave that inadvertently land on their planet succumb to suicide within several years. He decides to study the situation in depth with the aim to make sure Kade is happy and comfortable.
It immediately becomes clear that Kade is highly trained in military skills. He joins Aiden in his unit after being interviewed, tested, and trained to their methods. Still, Aiden struggles to deal with Kade at home as his master. He reluctantly accepts that it is mandatory that he shows Kade affection, friendship, and closeness to keep Kade fulfilled.
In the meantime, there are dangerous missions, political intrigue, and new faces. This book has detailed world-building, complex storylines, evolving personalities, and a beautiful love. I hope to see more from this world!
March 15, 2025
4.25 stars
I’ve seen a lot of human slave and alien kidnapper stories, so it was neat to see the trope subverted to human master, alien slave. To the point that you wonder if the author is pro enslaving, but I think it’s its own sci fi conundrum or maybe a kinky comparison for 24/7 D/s. Either way I liked the unconventional approach and adored the characters. Glad to see the couple featured in the next book too.
Spice: 3-4/5
Angst: 2/5
I’ve seen a lot of human slave and alien kidnapper stories, so it was neat to see the trope subverted to human master, alien slave. To the point that you wonder if the author is pro enslaving, but I think it’s its own sci fi conundrum or maybe a kinky comparison for 24/7 D/s. Either way I liked the unconventional approach and adored the characters. Glad to see the couple featured in the next book too.
Spice: 3-4/5
Angst: 2/5
January 16, 2025
And what if I said best book I've read in 2025 so far?? What if??😤 Don't judge this book by cover!!
The world building went OFF, the concept was soooo interesting, and I'm very curious how book two will go. Had me staying up late to read
The world building went OFF, the concept was soooo interesting, and I'm very curious how book two will go. Had me staying up late to read
December 2, 2024
A great book!
I admit I’m always a bit leery about books that involve slavery, even in a sci-fi world where the humans are staunchly against it. But it was handled really beautifully. Getting to see the world from both Kade’s (the slave’s) POV as well as Aiden’s (his accidental human owner’s) we come to understand that while their sudden relationship is messy and complex, both are devoted to ensuring the other one is happy. I loved getting to see them both grow and change. I would say the spice was 3/5 — definitely there, and a needed component to the story, but this is a plot and character driven book, rather than one purely smut. I’m looking forward to the next book!
I admit I’m always a bit leery about books that involve slavery, even in a sci-fi world where the humans are staunchly against it. But it was handled really beautifully. Getting to see the world from both Kade’s (the slave’s) POV as well as Aiden’s (his accidental human owner’s) we come to understand that while their sudden relationship is messy and complex, both are devoted to ensuring the other one is happy. I loved getting to see them both grow and change. I would say the spice was 3/5 — definitely there, and a needed component to the story, but this is a plot and character driven book, rather than one purely smut. I’m looking forward to the next book!
January 9, 2026
4.5 stars!
November 27, 2024
Loved it, totally recommend. I cannot explain to you how freaking ecstatic I am that an author created some weird social constructs for the characters and then actually bothered to flesh it out and make it make sense. Without spoiling, basically it will harm Kade if he goes against orders, and Aiden has to come to terms with how to have any sort of relationship with him (platonic, working, or otherwise).
April 7, 2025
I should have written a review a few days ago so my thoughts were fresh, but better late than never. I LOVED this, and it was done so well. I really enjoyed this and can’t wait to read more from this series- already read Dax and need to write its review too.
This book was layered and complex, in both characters and plot. I loved all the different alien races and the politics in this book, and I really enjoyed learning about the dimari and all the specifics about their training and how they think. I think it was really well done and the complexities of one of the MCs being a slave accidentally bonded to the other MC was handled very well. The characters were well developed, and I thought the pacing was great.
Kade! He was wonderful. I really enjoyed his POV and his thoughts on learning to navigate his new world, and it was always so interesting to see the difference in how a human and a dimari understood the same interaction, and watching Kade and Aiden learn to understand each other. There was a lot of trying times and Kade feeling unworthy and I felt so bad for him! But watching him figure things out and learn more about humans over the course of the book was rewarding. He became so much more confident and sure of his place in a way that seemed realistic. I just loved him.
And Aiden! Also great. I thought he was a strong character and also really well developed. The human side of things and his determination to do right by Kade was great. They worked great together, and I really loved them together. He was so considerate and tried so hard to do things the right way, even when that was often controversial or very difficult.
The plot and politics were so well done as well. , and the conflicts between species kept my attention.
I don’t know what other thoughts I have. I just loved this and thought everything was handled great. It went far deeper into ethics and morals and the like that I ever expected, and I had such a fun time with this book. I already read Dax and really enjoyed that one too, and can’t wait for the third book
This book was layered and complex, in both characters and plot. I loved all the different alien races and the politics in this book, and I really enjoyed learning about the dimari and all the specifics about their training and how they think. I think it was really well done and the complexities of one of the MCs being a slave accidentally bonded to the other MC was handled very well. The characters were well developed, and I thought the pacing was great.
Kade! He was wonderful. I really enjoyed his POV and his thoughts on learning to navigate his new world, and it was always so interesting to see the difference in how a human and a dimari understood the same interaction, and watching Kade and Aiden learn to understand each other. There was a lot of trying times and Kade feeling unworthy and I felt so bad for him! But watching him figure things out and learn more about humans over the course of the book was rewarding. He became so much more confident and sure of his place in a way that seemed realistic. I just loved him.
And Aiden! Also great. I thought he was a strong character and also really well developed. The human side of things and his determination to do right by Kade was great. They worked great together, and I really loved them together. He was so considerate and tried so hard to do things the right way, even when that was often controversial or very difficult.
The plot and politics were so well done as well. , and the conflicts between species kept my attention.
I don’t know what other thoughts I have. I just loved this and thought everything was handled great. It went far deeper into ethics and morals and the like that I ever expected, and I had such a fun time with this book. I already read Dax and really enjoyed that one too, and can’t wait for the third book
October 7, 2025
I freaking love it ！I love the world building and all the premise in it, it was such a fresh and unique plot 😍
What would you do when you were accidentally bonded to a being that have been brainwashed to be a slave that devote themselves of making their master happy ? It is an ongoing issues in the book world where they rescue and try to give freedom to the Dimari and try to make them “normal” again yet the result backfire which make the Dimari depressed and lead to suicide 😭that bits broke my freaking heart 💔
To me it is such a brilliant plot because we get to see how the character tackle the issues. I love seeing how Aiden try to still in his idea of giving Kaden freedom of thinking and making decision but still juggle to avoid until leading it to backfire. He try to understand the cause of problem and brainstorm what actually make Kaden feel fulfilled and happy although at first he have difficulty to accept it.
it is absolutely fun reading their journey and hot tooo 🔥🔥 What make it interesting is we get to witness Kaden way of thinking too, from there we get to understand he didn’t necessary gain independent state of him “normalcy” that Aiden wish to achieve but rather he adapt and change to what actually Kaden thought Aiden desire from him. It is such a complex and unique way of thinking every time i read Kaden POV. The moment Aiden & I thought that Kaden have evolved and escape the “brainwashed” gasp…..Kaden actually just understand and kinda sense what Aiden wanted from him, so he slowly change into it while still in the goal in mind of “making his master happy” 🤯 very intriguing ✨
I also love how supportive all the people around Aiden in helping the journey 🥹 this make me soooo excited for the next book and every book in this series, i wish for more book in the series ♥️
What would you do when you were accidentally bonded to a being that have been brainwashed to be a slave that devote themselves of making their master happy ? It is an ongoing issues in the book world where they rescue and try to give freedom to the Dimari and try to make them “normal” again yet the result backfire which make the Dimari depressed and lead to suicide 😭that bits broke my freaking heart 💔
To me it is such a brilliant plot because we get to see how the character tackle the issues. I love seeing how Aiden try to still in his idea of giving Kaden freedom of thinking and making decision but still juggle to avoid until leading it to backfire. He try to understand the cause of problem and brainstorm what actually make Kaden feel fulfilled and happy although at first he have difficulty to accept it.
it is absolutely fun reading their journey and hot tooo 🔥🔥 What make it interesting is we get to witness Kaden way of thinking too, from there we get to understand he didn’t necessary gain independent state of him “normalcy” that Aiden wish to achieve but rather he adapt and change to what actually Kaden thought Aiden desire from him. It is such a complex and unique way of thinking every time i read Kaden POV. The moment Aiden & I thought that Kaden have evolved and escape the “brainwashed” gasp…..Kaden actually just understand and kinda sense what Aiden wanted from him, so he slowly change into it while still in the goal in mind of “making his master happy” 🤯 very intriguing ✨
I also love how supportive all the people around Aiden in helping the journey 🥹 this make me soooo excited for the next book and every book in this series, i wish for more book in the series ♥️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2025
Unexpected great read! Kade and Aiden find themselves in an impossible position. Kade is a highly trained, brainwashed without the possibility of repair slave. Aiden is a soldier whose moral compass tells him everything about Kade’s history and his programing to serve his master without question is wrong. The last thing Aiden expected was to find Kade and accidentally become his master. Together they navigate some huge topics. Can a slave provide consent, especially of the spicy variety? Kade’s programing cannon be reversed and he is only happy serving his master, which is a direct attack of Aiden’s beliefs. Is it humane to ignore his programing or is the more humane thing to follow it and make him happy? These are impossible questions but I enjoyed how the author navigated them. The dual POV is invaluable and it was fascinating to read their inner banter. Together they reach a version of a relationship they are both happy with. The world building is great and throughly done! 10/10 recommend!
4 stars and not 5 because, although the book has great world building, there are just too many alien species to keep track of. After a while they all blend together and it gets confusing. Also, Aiden’s and Kade’s spicy relationship starts way too fast. Given Aiden’s moral issues with slavery and Kaden’s spicy programing, which is mentioned multiple times, it would have been more believable if that aspect of their relationship had come later. I think a slow build better suited the story and the complex moral issues it attempted to tackle.
4 stars and not 5 because, although the book has great world building, there are just too many alien species to keep track of. After a while they all blend together and it gets confusing. Also, Aiden’s and Kade’s spicy relationship starts way too fast. Given Aiden’s moral issues with slavery and Kaden’s spicy programing, which is mentioned multiple times, it would have been more believable if that aspect of their relationship had come later. I think a slow build better suited the story and the complex moral issues it attempted to tackle.
April 20, 2025
Anyway, if you’re looking for a low-angst, thought-provoking, sweetheart read then this is the one for you.
I’ve been avoiding this series when it pops up as suggested. Mainly because Sci-fi Alien Romances (especially ones involving the military) are incredibly scripted in the sense that they’re all the same. I don’t mean that they follow similar plot lines. They follow the EXACT same plot line. And while that can be comforting when you’re looking for low angst reads, it’s not comforting when it sends you into a reading slump because you really love Sci-fi Alien Romances but the category isn’t especially varied.
That being said, I’m absolutely KICKING myself for not reading it before now. This book never feels scripted. Probably because it has similar plot lines to every other Sci-fi Alien Romance in the genre but the Author also used an original thought. (This review is shaping up to be very harsh but I only intend to be honest; and if that honesty helps highlight the Author’s creativity and boosts their reviews—even better.)
Anyway, if you’re looking for a low-angst, thought-provoking, sweetheart read then this is the one for you. Aiden and Kade navigate their way through the nuances of bonded life in the Alliance and despite the odds being stacked against them (literally), the two of them work together (literally) to create their HEA. 💜
I’ve been avoiding this series when it pops up as suggested. Mainly because Sci-fi Alien Romances (especially ones involving the military) are incredibly scripted in the sense that they’re all the same. I don’t mean that they follow similar plot lines. They follow the EXACT same plot line. And while that can be comforting when you’re looking for low angst reads, it’s not comforting when it sends you into a reading slump because you really love Sci-fi Alien Romances but the category isn’t especially varied.
That being said, I’m absolutely KICKING myself for not reading it before now. This book never feels scripted. Probably because it has similar plot lines to every other Sci-fi Alien Romance in the genre but the Author also used an original thought. (This review is shaping up to be very harsh but I only intend to be honest; and if that honesty helps highlight the Author’s creativity and boosts their reviews—even better.)
Anyway, if you’re looking for a low-angst, thought-provoking, sweetheart read then this is the one for you. Aiden and Kade navigate their way through the nuances of bonded life in the Alliance and despite the odds being stacked against them (literally), the two of them work together (literally) to create their HEA. 💜
January 17, 2025
Two things:
One I loved reading this. It was well written, fast paced, complex and interesting cultures, and lots of military action and political intrigue elements, and a deep mild romance plot about a lieutenant trying to rehabilitate a slave who was accidentally bonded to him.
Two this is not fluffy. this is only appropriate for some readers given the triggers. It has mentions of self harm and child abuse. In one of the final chapters it has the later one in the form of a memory and those few sentences have been haunting me for days. I think I also didn’t like it because it was when they genetically made the character into a slave and unable to make their own decisions. It’s basically someone killing a kid, the soul not the body but I still wasn’t prepared for it.
Like what other reviewers have said I’m unsure how to classify the slave master romance. I was hopeful and everything is concentual but I thought they were making progress, but the ending reveals that the ‘abuse’ was permanent. I don’t know if the author is intending to change that in book 2 or whether she decided that that was enough concent and progress for readers to be content. The ending is HFN, abut I don’t know what the author wanted me to feel.
One I loved reading this. It was well written, fast paced, complex and interesting cultures, and lots of military action and political intrigue elements, and a deep mild romance plot about a lieutenant trying to rehabilitate a slave who was accidentally bonded to him.
Two this is not fluffy. this is only appropriate for some readers given the triggers. It has mentions of self harm and child abuse. In one of the final chapters it has the later one in the form of a memory and those few sentences have been haunting me for days. I think I also didn’t like it because it was when they genetically made the character into a slave and unable to make their own decisions. It’s basically someone killing a kid, the soul not the body but I still wasn’t prepared for it.
Like what other reviewers have said I’m unsure how to classify the slave master romance. I was hopeful and everything is concentual but I thought they were making progress, but the ending reveals that the ‘abuse’ was permanent. I don’t know if the author is intending to change that in book 2 or whether she decided that that was enough concent and progress for readers to be content. The ending is HFN, abut I don’t know what the author wanted me to feel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2025
An exploration of consent, culture clash, and love. This a book for group discussions! Let's argue!
I went into this expecting a straightforward sci-fi rescue romance, but instead I found myself utterly invested in Aiden and Kade’s impossible and weird 'bond'. Aiden, the dutiful lieutenant defending Rendol 4 from pirates and slavers, never planned on stumbling across Kade—an imprinted slave who insists Aiden is his rightful master. Ok, sign me up but also WTF?>?>? It's basically a tug-of-war between duty and desire, law and culture, master and partner.
What Hooked Me
The moral dilemma: Upholding the Alliance’s absolute ban on slavery while honoring Kade’s lifelong imprinting.
Culture vs. conscience: How do you respect someone’s deeply held customs when they clash with your own ethical code?
Emotional depth: Watching Aiden wrestle with guilt and protection, and Kade navigate freedom and longing, felt profoundly real.
Unexpected intimacy: Their connection blossoms not through commands, but through patience, trust, and genuine curiosity about each other’s worlds.
Minor Hesitations
At times the political backdrop fades into the background, but the emotional stakes keep you riveted.
A few moments of angst felt prolonged, though they ultimately underscored each character’s growth.
Final Verdict
If you crave a romance that challenges black-and-white morality and celebrates the nuance of consent, this one’s unmissable. It’s a triumphant blend of action, heartfelt emotion, and respect for cultural differences—even when they push you beyond your comfort zone.
Looking for discussion prompts on power dynamics, worldbuilding, and overall right vs wrong, give this book a try. Also it's a series and I can't wait to read the next one.
I went into this expecting a straightforward sci-fi rescue romance, but instead I found myself utterly invested in Aiden and Kade’s impossible and weird 'bond'. Aiden, the dutiful lieutenant defending Rendol 4 from pirates and slavers, never planned on stumbling across Kade—an imprinted slave who insists Aiden is his rightful master. Ok, sign me up but also WTF?>?>? It's basically a tug-of-war between duty and desire, law and culture, master and partner.
What Hooked Me
The moral dilemma: Upholding the Alliance’s absolute ban on slavery while honoring Kade’s lifelong imprinting.
Culture vs. conscience: How do you respect someone’s deeply held customs when they clash with your own ethical code?
Emotional depth: Watching Aiden wrestle with guilt and protection, and Kade navigate freedom and longing, felt profoundly real.
Unexpected intimacy: Their connection blossoms not through commands, but through patience, trust, and genuine curiosity about each other’s worlds.
Minor Hesitations
At times the political backdrop fades into the background, but the emotional stakes keep you riveted.
A few moments of angst felt prolonged, though they ultimately underscored each character’s growth.
Final Verdict
If you crave a romance that challenges black-and-white morality and celebrates the nuance of consent, this one’s unmissable. It’s a triumphant blend of action, heartfelt emotion, and respect for cultural differences—even when they push you beyond your comfort zone.
Looking for discussion prompts on power dynamics, worldbuilding, and overall right vs wrong, give this book a try. Also it's a series and I can't wait to read the next one.
April 12, 2025
To begin with I Highly recommend this Author's book. I believe she hits 10 out of 10 in "Kade: Accidentally Bonded" the first of a series. I just finished it and had to submit a review even before checking out any of the other in the series.
At first, I thought this was just another sf/fantasy romance. A little slow in the beginning but world building requires some time. Then the action sequences moved things along at the same time the characters were growing, changing.
SPOILER ALERT!
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The plot increases, from just a romance with action or an action with romance to something more substantial. The questions civilization and humanity must constantly answer and re-evaluate. What is slavery? What marks the difference between human and non-human (animal) rights to freedom and self-determination?
I love the sensitivity and boldness of addressing such concepts within a 'romance' setting.
This is a book well worth more than just 5 stars.
At first, I thought this was just another sf/fantasy romance. A little slow in the beginning but world building requires some time. Then the action sequences moved things along at the same time the characters were growing, changing.
SPOILER ALERT!
|
|
|
|
V
The plot increases, from just a romance with action or an action with romance to something more substantial. The questions civilization and humanity must constantly answer and re-evaluate. What is slavery? What marks the difference between human and non-human (animal) rights to freedom and self-determination?
I love the sensitivity and boldness of addressing such concepts within a 'romance' setting.
This is a book well worth more than just 5 stars.
October 5, 2025
This book turned out to be more of a sci-fi alien fantasy with a sub plot of romance (and the romance in question was more physical than emotional). And to be clear, this is slave book. Yes the society is against slavery, but the alien MC and those of his race want/need to be slaves after how their brains were messed with. So there are some aspects that I found a little uncomfortable to read.
The world building came as more explanations than organically learning things. This author likes to overly explain situations where at times I think the reader could assume some things without having it written out.
The romance was really secondary to the plot and there wasn’t much chemistry or yearning from the MCs. For majority of the book I really didn’t think I’d be continuing with the series but I was intrigued at the end. It makes me think that the next book in the series might be more romance centric now that the world building and premise is established.
The world building came as more explanations than organically learning things. This author likes to overly explain situations where at times I think the reader could assume some things without having it written out.
The romance was really secondary to the plot and there wasn’t much chemistry or yearning from the MCs. For majority of the book I really didn’t think I’d be continuing with the series but I was intrigued at the end. It makes me think that the next book in the series might be more romance centric now that the world building and premise is established.
December 29, 2025
great story
I love this book. I just read it for the third time because I like to reread a series as each new book comes out. I love the way the author uses sex between the characters as a plot element and for character development instead of just throwing it in gratuitously like most MM authors do. In general, I tend to skip over the sex in most of the MM books I read just because it is gratuitous. Ms. Taylor, however, uses the interactions and the intimacy between Kade and Aiden to demonstrate their evolution as individuals and as a couple. The sex wasn’t just visceral and superficial like I often tend to find it in other stories (even the good ones that I really like). It served a purpose in this story. And I loved the story line throughout. I hope Ms. Taylor writes many many many more books in this series, because I am no where near ready to be done with this world and the characters she’s created. Thank you Ms. Taylor.
I love this book. I just read it for the third time because I like to reread a series as each new book comes out. I love the way the author uses sex between the characters as a plot element and for character development instead of just throwing it in gratuitously like most MM authors do. In general, I tend to skip over the sex in most of the MM books I read just because it is gratuitous. Ms. Taylor, however, uses the interactions and the intimacy between Kade and Aiden to demonstrate their evolution as individuals and as a couple. The sex wasn’t just visceral and superficial like I often tend to find it in other stories (even the good ones that I really like). It served a purpose in this story. And I loved the story line throughout. I hope Ms. Taylor writes many many many more books in this series, because I am no where near ready to be done with this world and the characters she’s created. Thank you Ms. Taylor.
April 22, 2025
Sucked right in
I binged Kade and then Dax in a heaping helping. I recommend both of them highly. These books are not fluff. I spent a lot of time considering social norms and biases, empathy, consent, and what it means to love.
The MMCs are fully fleshed out people that I felt like I knew and then missed them when I closed the book. I was excited to see Zade and Aiden in the second book. I know that I will be thinking about all of them for a good long time.
The world building, descriptions, pacing and writing in general are all very well done. I cannot recommend these books highly enough. Do not read Dax as a standalone. You'll probably be able to figure it out but it will lose much of its depth.
I binged Kade and then Dax in a heaping helping. I recommend both of them highly. These books are not fluff. I spent a lot of time considering social norms and biases, empathy, consent, and what it means to love.
The MMCs are fully fleshed out people that I felt like I knew and then missed them when I closed the book. I was excited to see Zade and Aiden in the second book. I know that I will be thinking about all of them for a good long time.
The world building, descriptions, pacing and writing in general are all very well done. I cannot recommend these books highly enough. Do not read Dax as a standalone. You'll probably be able to figure it out but it will lose much of its depth.
May 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kade: Accidentally Bonded delivers a compelling blend of sci-fi action, emotional tension, and thought-provoking dynamics around autonomy, consent, and identity. Aiden is principled and conflicted, a soldier torn between duty and desire, while Kade is a devoted, brainwashed slave who believes his purpose lies in complete surrender. Their clash of values sparks a slow-burning connection that’s equal parts frustrating and tender. The story doesn’t shy away from the darker implications of Kade’s conditioning, yet it also offers moments of surprising warmth and genuine growth. With military grit and emotional depth, this is a fascinating omegaverse-adjacent romance that challenges as much as it entertains.
Kade: Accidentally Bonded delivers a compelling blend of sci-fi action, emotional tension, and thought-provoking dynamics around autonomy, consent, and identity. Aiden is principled and conflicted, a soldier torn between duty and desire, while Kade is a devoted, brainwashed slave who believes his purpose lies in complete surrender. Their clash of values sparks a slow-burning connection that’s equal parts frustrating and tender. The story doesn’t shy away from the darker implications of Kade’s conditioning, yet it also offers moments of surprising warmth and genuine growth. With military grit and emotional depth, this is a fascinating omegaverse-adjacent romance that challenges as much as it entertains.
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