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The Perfect Ruby: A Science Fiction Romance
Ruby Pyxis is a survivor.
After escaping her dying planet as a child, she’s used to doing things on her own. Surviving incarceration and a kidnapping by a powerful galactic politician are no different.
Ozun and Tral are happy with each other and their small crew of space rogues, but when the offer of a lifetime comes along, it’s too difficult to refuse. The problem? Instead of picking up what they think is a priceless gem, their cargo is a person—a beautiful woman named Ruby.
As the lines between captor and captive blur, Ruby’s sweet sensuality and unyielding spirit ignite something in both men, and she sees the window into the souls of the criminals. Maybe, just maybe, they’re not as tough as they appear.
Ozun and Tral have a decision to follow through with the deal or face the wrath of the galaxy’s most fearsome crime boss. Ruby has an important decision as well. Put all of her trust in a crew she barely knows or traverse the vast expanse of the galaxy alone.
The Perfect Ruby is a MMF science fiction alien romance with a HFN/HEA. The Coalition Universe series Book 2. Can be read as a standalone.
After escaping her dying planet as a child, she’s used to doing things on her own. Surviving incarceration and a kidnapping by a powerful galactic politician are no different.
Ozun and Tral are happy with each other and their small crew of space rogues, but when the offer of a lifetime comes along, it’s too difficult to refuse. The problem? Instead of picking up what they think is a priceless gem, their cargo is a person—a beautiful woman named Ruby.
As the lines between captor and captive blur, Ruby’s sweet sensuality and unyielding spirit ignite something in both men, and she sees the window into the souls of the criminals. Maybe, just maybe, they’re not as tough as they appear.
Ozun and Tral have a decision to follow through with the deal or face the wrath of the galaxy’s most fearsome crime boss. Ruby has an important decision as well. Put all of her trust in a crew she barely knows or traverse the vast expanse of the galaxy alone.
The Perfect Ruby is a MMF science fiction alien romance with a HFN/HEA. The Coalition Universe series Book 2. Can be read as a standalone.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2025
15 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
E.K. Darnell
9 books32 followersE.K. is an author of science fiction and fantasy romance. She loves writing about weird aliens and polyamorous relationships. When not writing she spends her time at Renaissance Faires, playing DND with her friends, and cuddling her husband and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
February 6, 2025
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author, but my opinions are my own.
Exactly as advertised! This was lovely revisit of the world from A Bond of Blood, and a delightful example of found family trope. EK Darnell's signature style is growing more polished with each new story. I think she should have a Queen of Tentacle Smut badge.
Exactly as advertised! This was lovely revisit of the world from A Bond of Blood, and a delightful example of found family trope. EK Darnell's signature style is growing more polished with each new story. I think she should have a Queen of Tentacle Smut badge.
February 9, 2025
This marks my fourth ARC read with this phenomenal author! Absolutely love!
If you’re big on polyamorous, kinky sci fi romance this is definitely perfect for you! You will not be disappointed! My eyes are set on Captain Ozun. If I can get him bottled up and released anytime I want I’d die a happy girl. Seriously.
The chemistry between the three characters is mesmerizing. Ruby is such a sexy deviant. She gets Ozun and Tral caught up and choked in a good way. I’m in awe. They’re so adorable!
I cannot wait for the next installment! I needed it like yesterday actually. My honesty is sci fi romance is perfect. It’s hot, sexy, and full of steamy romance.
If you’re big on polyamorous, kinky sci fi romance this is definitely perfect for you! You will not be disappointed! My eyes are set on Captain Ozun. If I can get him bottled up and released anytime I want I’d die a happy girl. Seriously.
The chemistry between the three characters is mesmerizing. Ruby is such a sexy deviant. She gets Ozun and Tral caught up and choked in a good way. I’m in awe. They’re so adorable!
I cannot wait for the next installment! I needed it like yesterday actually. My honesty is sci fi romance is perfect. It’s hot, sexy, and full of steamy romance.
February 13, 2026
Ruby was stuck in the worst position, but lucked out when Tral and Ozun became her unwitting transport to her next enslaver. She was emotionally closed off as a survival mechanism and resourceful. Ozun was a sweetie pie but no push over. Tral was enthusiastic and blunt, treading the line between right and wrong more closely than Ozun, though both were criminals. They were able to open up to each other, helped along by the traumas along the way, and Ruby was able to accept that opening her heart could be worth the risk. I loved how creative of a monster Tral was, with his reptilian body and tentacles.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: sex trafficking / nonconsensual sexual imprisonment (not described on page beyond a kiss and touch, not knowingly done by MMCs)
sex work (mentioned)
power differential between MCs when intimate
violence / murder / gore (not between MCs)
planetwide destruction (not graphic)
bombing resulting in loss of innocent lives (civilians and children, not graphic / detailed)
famine (not graphic / detailed)
voyeurism
exhibitionism
public (but incognito) sex
alcohol
Drugging
kidnapping
physical injury
MMC grinds on FMC while he’s asleep
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: sex trafficking / nonconsensual sexual imprisonment (not described on page beyond a kiss and touch, not knowingly done by MMCs)
sex work (mentioned)
power differential between MCs when intimate
violence / murder / gore (not between MCs)
planetwide destruction (not graphic)
bombing resulting in loss of innocent lives (civilians and children, not graphic / detailed)
famine (not graphic / detailed)
voyeurism
exhibitionism
public (but incognito) sex
alcohol
Drugging
kidnapping
physical injury
MMC grinds on FMC while he’s asleep
February 2, 2025
A Perfect Ruby is an erotic sci-fi romance that’s mostly light hearted and cozy, but touches on heavy subjects with appropriate gravity. It’s tailor made for people who like polyamorous love stories, honorable thieves a la Firefly, and kinky, imaginative human-on-alien “consentacle” smut.
Set in the same universe as Darnell’s A Bond of Blood, which I have not read, it begins with the titular Ruby expositing how she came to be a highly successful sex worker, and later a victim of trafficking. The sex work is treated as an imperfect but empowering line of work; the trafficking as traumatic and a result of hypocrisy among the powerful. But this is neither glamorized nor sensationalized. The man who's bought Ruby tries to be gentlemanly, and is never violent toward her, yet his words and actions degrade and objectify her. When she changes hands, we see her resort to flirting and fawning as a survival tactic—much to the consternation of the male main characters, Captain Ozun and his lover and first mate Tral, who assiduously deny her advances.
This is a good time to point out that none of the three leads are actually human. Ruby is a shifter in human guise, Ozun is from an elf-like species and resents being mistaken for human, and Tral is… more or less a bipedal sea monster. I like the others but I freaking love Tral. He is an easygoing gentle giant who complements his type A partner well. But he’s also horny on main, capable of incredible violence, and sexually something right out of a tentacle hentai.
The crew of Ozun and Tral's ship, where like 80% of the book takes place, is rounded out by one Unsavory Cismale Human, and Brightclaw, a good natured asexual furry creature whose room later becomes a safe space. A Perfect Ruby unapologetically centers around a chemistry that begins when Ruby, Ozun and Tral are placed in forced proximity, which in retrospect was mostly to keep her away from the Unsavory Human Cismale. But the feeling persists beyond that, fanned by Tral’s sunny cuddly personality and the general sluttiness common to all three of them. Ultimately it changes the course of the mission and leads to her becoming a de facto member of the crew, which is when things really heat up.
Tral has a tendency to initiate touch, but it’s 100% Ruby who crosses the line and first involves herself in sex that’s ongoing between the men, leading to three group scenes, each hornier than the last. Tral is consistently a top while the other two play varying roles. There’s an unvoiced assumption that all of them are familiar with and have a flexible interest in basic power exchange, but there are some check-ins when shit's about to get extra crazy or someone seems to be in discomfort.
I've read my fair share of monster smut and I really dug these scenes. They are sensual without being overly serious, they touch on a bunch of niche kinks while remaining balanced and accessible, and each scene has its own emotional stakes.
Of course when the dust settles, and the cum and the unfertilized eggs have washed away, there is still the main plot and its complications to be dealt with. It’s fairly straightforward, you might see the third act twist coming, there's one major fight scene but it is very cathartic. But if you’re the target audience you probably aren’t gonna mind any of that. Darnell promised we'd get our happy ending and we did. These three aren’t just adorable, and they aren't just electric in the sack; together with their ace buddy Brightclaw, they are a found family of scofflaws, in a galaxy where the law deserves to be scoffed at. And I love that for them.
Overall? As a sci-fi adventure story, A Perfect Ruby is good. As a hot sticky inhuman triad romance, it’s fantastic.
Set in the same universe as Darnell’s A Bond of Blood, which I have not read, it begins with the titular Ruby expositing how she came to be a highly successful sex worker, and later a victim of trafficking. The sex work is treated as an imperfect but empowering line of work; the trafficking as traumatic and a result of hypocrisy among the powerful. But this is neither glamorized nor sensationalized. The man who's bought Ruby tries to be gentlemanly, and is never violent toward her, yet his words and actions degrade and objectify her. When she changes hands, we see her resort to flirting and fawning as a survival tactic—much to the consternation of the male main characters, Captain Ozun and his lover and first mate Tral, who assiduously deny her advances.
This is a good time to point out that none of the three leads are actually human. Ruby is a shifter in human guise, Ozun is from an elf-like species and resents being mistaken for human, and Tral is… more or less a bipedal sea monster. I like the others but I freaking love Tral. He is an easygoing gentle giant who complements his type A partner well. But he’s also horny on main, capable of incredible violence, and sexually something right out of a tentacle hentai.
The crew of Ozun and Tral's ship, where like 80% of the book takes place, is rounded out by one Unsavory Cismale Human, and Brightclaw, a good natured asexual furry creature whose room later becomes a safe space. A Perfect Ruby unapologetically centers around a chemistry that begins when Ruby, Ozun and Tral are placed in forced proximity, which in retrospect was mostly to keep her away from the Unsavory Human Cismale. But the feeling persists beyond that, fanned by Tral’s sunny cuddly personality and the general sluttiness common to all three of them. Ultimately it changes the course of the mission and leads to her becoming a de facto member of the crew, which is when things really heat up.
Tral has a tendency to initiate touch, but it’s 100% Ruby who crosses the line and first involves herself in sex that’s ongoing between the men, leading to three group scenes, each hornier than the last. Tral is consistently a top while the other two play varying roles. There’s an unvoiced assumption that all of them are familiar with and have a flexible interest in basic power exchange, but there are some check-ins when shit's about to get extra crazy or someone seems to be in discomfort.
I've read my fair share of monster smut and I really dug these scenes. They are sensual without being overly serious, they touch on a bunch of niche kinks while remaining balanced and accessible, and each scene has its own emotional stakes.
Of course when the dust settles, and the cum and the unfertilized eggs have washed away, there is still the main plot and its complications to be dealt with. It’s fairly straightforward, you might see the third act twist coming, there's one major fight scene but it is very cathartic. But if you’re the target audience you probably aren’t gonna mind any of that. Darnell promised we'd get our happy ending and we did. These three aren’t just adorable, and they aren't just electric in the sack; together with their ace buddy Brightclaw, they are a found family of scofflaws, in a galaxy where the law deserves to be scoffed at. And I love that for them.
Overall? As a sci-fi adventure story, A Perfect Ruby is good. As a hot sticky inhuman triad romance, it’s fantastic.
February 11, 2025
A young woman is unknowingly saved by two aliens, and the trio form a close bond.
The Perfect Ruby is the second instalment in the The Coalition Universe series by E.K. Darnell; however, it can act as a standalone.
The Perfect Ruby is a polyamorous science fiction romance. It follows Ruby, the FMC, after she is kidnapped and held captive by a politician who brainwashes her into thinking that her sole purpose is to serve others. Ruby, considered important cargo, is picked up by Ozun, Tral and their fellow crewmates, and they embark on a journey together. Ozun and his lover, Tral, take an interest in Ruby and realise they enjoy her company more than they initially let on.
I liked how complex Ruby is as our female main character. She willingly enjoys being a sex worker, feeling like she has control over her life for once until she is kidnapped and forced to serve a demanding and cruel politician. Ruby is actually a shifter, but she chooses to disguise herself as a human to appeal more interesting. Initially, she is timid and subservient, but as the book progresses, she opens up to Ozun and Tral.
Ozun and Tral, our male main characters, are lovely. Ozun is the captain of the ship they inhabit, and Tral acts as his right-hand man. Both men are in a committed relationship, but their chemistry with Ruby is palpable. Ruby becomes a member of the crew, and the three become closer.
The book is only 255 pages long, therefore a relatively quick and easy read. The pacing is good and the action is enjoyable. The smut scenes don't feel forced or misplaced, and they are well-written. I haven't read the first book in this series, but I would be interested in picking it up in the near future, as I really enjoyed The Perfect Ruby.
I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review.
The Perfect Ruby is the second instalment in the The Coalition Universe series by E.K. Darnell; however, it can act as a standalone.
The Perfect Ruby is a polyamorous science fiction romance. It follows Ruby, the FMC, after she is kidnapped and held captive by a politician who brainwashes her into thinking that her sole purpose is to serve others. Ruby, considered important cargo, is picked up by Ozun, Tral and their fellow crewmates, and they embark on a journey together. Ozun and his lover, Tral, take an interest in Ruby and realise they enjoy her company more than they initially let on.
I liked how complex Ruby is as our female main character. She willingly enjoys being a sex worker, feeling like she has control over her life for once until she is kidnapped and forced to serve a demanding and cruel politician. Ruby is actually a shifter, but she chooses to disguise herself as a human to appeal more interesting. Initially, she is timid and subservient, but as the book progresses, she opens up to Ozun and Tral.
Ozun and Tral, our male main characters, are lovely. Ozun is the captain of the ship they inhabit, and Tral acts as his right-hand man. Both men are in a committed relationship, but their chemistry with Ruby is palpable. Ruby becomes a member of the crew, and the three become closer.
The book is only 255 pages long, therefore a relatively quick and easy read. The pacing is good and the action is enjoyable. The smut scenes don't feel forced or misplaced, and they are well-written. I haven't read the first book in this series, but I would be interested in picking it up in the near future, as I really enjoyed The Perfect Ruby.
I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2025
The second book in the Coalition series…I now need to read the first one! I adored this book. It gave me massive firefly vibes and I loved it!
The book is so well written and the characters are so lovable. Both Ozun and Tral are so great together and you can just feel the love between them and it’s hot!
Ruby, she has had a tough life as well as the social construct of this world, an Encun (shapeshifter), by law has to have a tracker as they are believed to be dangerous. Ruby had hers removed and becomes a sex worker, using her shape shifting abilities to pull in the clientele, she’s very popular. She is captured and imprisoned before becoming a personal toy for a powerful galactic politician that doesn’t hesitate to sell her on for the right price…from there she meets the team when they come to collect the perfect Ruby, a priceless gem but are met with Ruby. The shock of their situation is clear and they have to make the tough decision whether to go along with the plan or cancel the mission at the risk of angering one of the most powerful crime bosses. You have to read to find out! All in all this was such a good read, the story flowed really well and the relationships weren’t forced and felt natural! Also shoutout to Brightclaw, love that little fur ball, I really enjoyed his character. The spice was so good, that public scene! Had me giggling and kicking my legs! Cannot wait for more of this universe.
The book is so well written and the characters are so lovable. Both Ozun and Tral are so great together and you can just feel the love between them and it’s hot!
Ruby, she has had a tough life as well as the social construct of this world, an Encun (shapeshifter), by law has to have a tracker as they are believed to be dangerous. Ruby had hers removed and becomes a sex worker, using her shape shifting abilities to pull in the clientele, she’s very popular. She is captured and imprisoned before becoming a personal toy for a powerful galactic politician that doesn’t hesitate to sell her on for the right price…from there she meets the team when they come to collect the perfect Ruby, a priceless gem but are met with Ruby. The shock of their situation is clear and they have to make the tough decision whether to go along with the plan or cancel the mission at the risk of angering one of the most powerful crime bosses. You have to read to find out! All in all this was such a good read, the story flowed really well and the relationships weren’t forced and felt natural! Also shoutout to Brightclaw, love that little fur ball, I really enjoyed his character. The spice was so good, that public scene! Had me giggling and kicking my legs! Cannot wait for more of this universe.
April 30, 2025
Ok heads up!!!! This is probably one of the most unhinged reviews I’m gonna write!
The main reason being I think I have unlocked a new kink but I’m also disgusted with myself because of how perfect this whole story is!
Ruby- one of the last of her kind, stolen and sold and used to sex work. Suddenly she’s sold off and a small crew comes to claim her, but they aren’t even aware of what or who she is.
Ozun- captain and near thief and just doing another job alongside his lover and crew. A Ruby to collect and deliver for an obscene price! Who could turn that down? Wait WHAT THE F??? Didn’t sign up for this!!!!
Tral- lover to the captain and always siding with him on everything, he flies along with just about everything, until a certain Ruby comes along and he just KNOWS she’s the one to complete them
Brightclaw- asexual and loyal to a fault! Completely disagreeing with the original plans and willing to do anything to help keep Ruby safe.
C- I cannot even write his name…..just ….. GAH I hate this human…. Why is it always the human who is the bastards and not the aliens????
Anyways, you definitely need to read this and I need more….. just not more ovipositor content because apparently that is where my kinks die!?
The main reason being I think I have unlocked a new kink but I’m also disgusted with myself because of how perfect this whole story is!
Ruby- one of the last of her kind, stolen and sold and used to sex work. Suddenly she’s sold off and a small crew comes to claim her, but they aren’t even aware of what or who she is.
Ozun- captain and near thief and just doing another job alongside his lover and crew. A Ruby to collect and deliver for an obscene price! Who could turn that down? Wait WHAT THE F??? Didn’t sign up for this!!!!
Tral- lover to the captain and always siding with him on everything, he flies along with just about everything, until a certain Ruby comes along and he just KNOWS she’s the one to complete them
Brightclaw- asexual and loyal to a fault! Completely disagreeing with the original plans and willing to do anything to help keep Ruby safe.
C- I cannot even write his name…..just ….. GAH I hate this human…. Why is it always the human who is the bastards and not the aliens????
Anyways, you definitely need to read this and I need more….. just not more ovipositor content because apparently that is where my kinks die!?
March 13, 2025
Ruby, the female alien shape shifter lead, has been abducted from prison, where she was wrongfully imprisoned, and enslaved so that she can only shift on command. Now she’s being sold. Oran, the male humanoid alien lead (with pointy ears), and Tral, the male alien lead with tentacles, are the captain and second of a mercenary crew (as well as longterm partners) who have taken the job of transporting “The Perfect Ruby”, which they believed was a gem. Horrified to find themselves transporting a sentient being, they’re stymied - their employer is a very powerful crime boss.
But the longer Ruby is with them, the more certain they are that it would be wrong to hand her over. Then there is the attraction they’re all fighting…
This story is dual POV, well written, and an action focused, fast paced, sci fi, ménage romance. I enjoyed that Ruby was an active character, working towards her own goals, with no regard for the other characters until it suited her. I enjoyed Ozun and Tral’s shock at Ruby being their cargo, and appreciated their compassion for her and their determination to do the right thing. I enjoyed the found family feeling with another member of their crew. I enjoyed the non-romance plot. I enjoyed the building intimacy. I enjoyed Ruby’s shape shifting abilities.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
But the longer Ruby is with them, the more certain they are that it would be wrong to hand her over. Then there is the attraction they’re all fighting…
This story is dual POV, well written, and an action focused, fast paced, sci fi, ménage romance. I enjoyed that Ruby was an active character, working towards her own goals, with no regard for the other characters until it suited her. I enjoyed Ozun and Tral’s shock at Ruby being their cargo, and appreciated their compassion for her and their determination to do the right thing. I enjoyed the found family feeling with another member of their crew. I enjoyed the non-romance plot. I enjoyed the building intimacy. I enjoyed Ruby’s shape shifting abilities.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
February 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received a copy of this book from the Author and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
I loved this book. Ruby is such a strong character, and I love her. I also love the chemistry between all the characters. I have read a lot of books that involve polyamory, and I have not seen an established couple have a whole conversation about bringing someone else into their relationship. I loved the family found in this book; it made me so happy. My favorite character may or may not be Brightclaw, and I love how blunt he can be. And just like in A Bond of Blood, I love the universe we are in. The coalition is so interesting as a government, and I know we do not see much about them in either book. Still, I am curious about this seemingly dystopian government. I am very interested in this government for a series that has about 400 pages after the coalition is formed. Anyways, if you want a polyamorous, kinky sci-fi romance, this is the book for you.
🛸MMF
🛸Only One Bed
🛸Shapeshifter FMC
🛸Crew of Space Rouges
🛸Aliens
🛸Found Family
I received a copy of this book from the Author and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
I loved this book. Ruby is such a strong character, and I love her. I also love the chemistry between all the characters. I have read a lot of books that involve polyamory, and I have not seen an established couple have a whole conversation about bringing someone else into their relationship. I loved the family found in this book; it made me so happy. My favorite character may or may not be Brightclaw, and I love how blunt he can be. And just like in A Bond of Blood, I love the universe we are in. The coalition is so interesting as a government, and I know we do not see much about them in either book. Still, I am curious about this seemingly dystopian government. I am very interested in this government for a series that has about 400 pages after the coalition is formed. Anyways, if you want a polyamorous, kinky sci-fi romance, this is the book for you.
🛸MMF
🛸Only One Bed
🛸Shapeshifter FMC
🛸Crew of Space Rouges
🛸Aliens
🛸Found Family
February 2, 2025
I received this as an arc, and really enjoyed it.
Ozun and his partner Tral, owners of the Vortex, have been employed to transport the perfect Ruby to its new owner. But the crew of the Vortex are is for a shock when they meet the Perfect Ruby. Ruby is a shape shifter, only able to shift when permitted by her owner. The problem is that the crew of the Vortex vowed never to traffic anyone again, but they do not want to go against Ruby's new powerful owner.
I would say that this is a don't judge a book by it cover, as I would of probably not looked at it based on the cover alone. Saying that i really enjoyed it, easy read and was instantly hooked. Even though it is book 2 in the series you could read this as a standalone. I liked the characters, especially Tral and some interesting spicy scenes involving tentacles.
Overall an an enjoyable read, and will be adding the first book to my tbr
Ozun and his partner Tral, owners of the Vortex, have been employed to transport the perfect Ruby to its new owner. But the crew of the Vortex are is for a shock when they meet the Perfect Ruby. Ruby is a shape shifter, only able to shift when permitted by her owner. The problem is that the crew of the Vortex vowed never to traffic anyone again, but they do not want to go against Ruby's new powerful owner.
I would say that this is a don't judge a book by it cover, as I would of probably not looked at it based on the cover alone. Saying that i really enjoyed it, easy read and was instantly hooked. Even though it is book 2 in the series you could read this as a standalone. I liked the characters, especially Tral and some interesting spicy scenes involving tentacles.
Overall an an enjoyable read, and will be adding the first book to my tbr
March 15, 2025
I got this as an ARC but all opinions are my own!
OMGGGG I freaking loved this so much. Ruby is actually so perfect and even though she’s pretty deeply traumatized by, well basically her entire life to this point, she never gives up on trying to live a fulfilling life. Ozun and Tral are just so freaking PRECIOUS and I know that’s a weird way to describe space aliens but seriously every interaction they have with each other and with Ruby just warmed my whole heart. Brightclaw was unintentionally hilarious all the time just because of the way he speaks and acts and I loved him. The spice in this doesn’t kick off immediately but once it does you won’t want it to stop. It’s aliens though so be prepared for some, let’s say different, kinds of spicy things. The spice in this was amazing, the love in this was perfect, and the action-y parts were super badass. I absolutely loved this and can’t wait for the next book because oh my god that ending!?!?!
OMGGGG I freaking loved this so much. Ruby is actually so perfect and even though she’s pretty deeply traumatized by, well basically her entire life to this point, she never gives up on trying to live a fulfilling life. Ozun and Tral are just so freaking PRECIOUS and I know that’s a weird way to describe space aliens but seriously every interaction they have with each other and with Ruby just warmed my whole heart. Brightclaw was unintentionally hilarious all the time just because of the way he speaks and acts and I loved him. The spice in this doesn’t kick off immediately but once it does you won’t want it to stop. It’s aliens though so be prepared for some, let’s say different, kinds of spicy things. The spice in this was amazing, the love in this was perfect, and the action-y parts were super badass. I absolutely loved this and can’t wait for the next book because oh my god that ending!?!?!
March 16, 2025
I received this novel as an ARC reader, and I loved it!! I’ve never read a novel with such loving representation of polyamory and alien-kind. 🥰
Spoilers-ish
Some of my favorite parts of the novel:
~when Ruby discovers that she can be herself with Tral and Ozun, it melted my heart
~all of the beautiful sex scenes, the respect they have, the way they all build off each others’ pleasure, absolute *chefs kiss*
~the gentleness of Tral and Ozun. I’m a lesbian, but if I were into men of any kind, they would be the types I look for
~the lovely asexual representation
~the found family 🥹
~the topic of trauma was not avoided, it was talked about and each character comforted the other in their own way
~the gentleness of this novel, it felt like a sweet, cozy, spicy warm hug
Least favorite parts:
~Cendrun (if you know you know 😭)
Spoilers-ish
Some of my favorite parts of the novel:
~when Ruby discovers that she can be herself with Tral and Ozun, it melted my heart
~all of the beautiful sex scenes, the respect they have, the way they all build off each others’ pleasure, absolute *chefs kiss*
~the gentleness of Tral and Ozun. I’m a lesbian, but if I were into men of any kind, they would be the types I look for
~the lovely asexual representation
~the found family 🥹
~the topic of trauma was not avoided, it was talked about and each character comforted the other in their own way
~the gentleness of this novel, it felt like a sweet, cozy, spicy warm hug
Least favorite parts:
~Cendrun (if you know you know 😭)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2025
I had a chance to get an Advanced Readers Copy of this book before it officially went on sale. It was right up my alley - space travel, intrigue, alien species, with some interesting interspecies match-ups. This is the second book in Darnell's universe of characters, though it is a standalone book amongst the story arc. While I did not read the first book, a few characters who appeared in that story were referenced here - and I didn't feel as though I was missing information. If anything, I wanted to go back and read Darnell's first book so I could learn more.
I read this on Kindle, and one thing that I feel could enhance the story is artist renderings of the various species. I like the descriptions and my own imagination, but having a reference for the appearance of non-human characters would be welcome.
I read this on Kindle, and one thing that I feel could enhance the story is artist renderings of the various species. I like the descriptions and my own imagination, but having a reference for the appearance of non-human characters would be welcome.
March 2, 2025
The Perfect Ruby was a short yet enjoyable read.
Ruby’s journey was definitely one of self acceptance as she struggled with not being comfortable in her own skin. Following along as Ruby grappled with letting people in as a way to protect herself resonated with me.
I absolutely adored the relationship between Ruby, Tral and Ozun. They are literally the perfect balance for each other. Where Ozun is serious, Tral is playful and lighthearted. Where Ruby is solitary and independent Tral and Ozun are supportive. Did I mention the steam between them? Whew i am definitely interested in knowing how those tentacles feel 👀
Ruby’s journey was definitely one of self acceptance as she struggled with not being comfortable in her own skin. Following along as Ruby grappled with letting people in as a way to protect herself resonated with me.
I absolutely adored the relationship between Ruby, Tral and Ozun. They are literally the perfect balance for each other. Where Ozun is serious, Tral is playful and lighthearted. Where Ruby is solitary and independent Tral and Ozun are supportive. Did I mention the steam between them? Whew i am definitely interested in knowing how those tentacles feel 👀
March 4, 2025
If you love sci-fi erotica, with some serious notes here and there, pick this book up! The characters are great, the plot is there, and the world the story takes place in is described so well. Please note that none of these characters are human, so if that’s not your thing, this isn’t the book for you. I will also note that this a poly relationship, MMF, if you aren’t into sharing, this isn’t the book for you either. The smutty scenes were written so well and had me blushing hard! I would very much recommend this book to anyone looking for this sort of literature! This is book 2 in the series but can be read as a standalone. I can’t wait to read more about this world!
February 19, 2025
This book is one of those where you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, as is the first book of this collection, A Bond of Blood. While both books are erotic, they are also cozy sci-fi. I personally never thought I would like an erotic sci-fi book but I loved them both! I received this book as an ARC and when I found out it was part 2 of the collection, I read A Bond of Blood first and was very satisfied with the technique and detailing in both books. It played out in my head like a movie! Highly recommend E.K. Darnell!
March 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this story. It had action, intrigue, romance and interesting anatomies! I have not read the first in The Coalition Universe series but this story was great as a standalone. The relationship and character development were fantastic. I really enjoyed the personalities of the MCs and how well they complemented each other and enhanced the story. It made their relationship authentic. Their romance was a sweet slow burn that had me primed for the spice! I’m looking forward reading more! Thank you EK Darnell for the eARC
February 23, 2025
I received as an ARC, but I’ve been reading everything I can from this author. Lovely alien romances, fun, niche kinky things are all grand, but I love the way these characters interact with each other. They just work so well together!
I would read grand, SCI fi adventures with these characters the author is flushing out in this world.
I so wish for there to be more and can’t wait to see what comes next.
A fun, quick and spicy read.
I would read grand, SCI fi adventures with these characters the author is flushing out in this world.
I so wish for there to be more and can’t wait to see what comes next.
A fun, quick and spicy read.
March 6, 2025
I really enjoyed this! Took me a minute to grasp all of the terminology because I did not read A Bond of Blood first, but it was still very good. My favorite character was for sure Brightclaw. I loved that all of the characters were very different, but still felt like a unit. Definitely found family vibes while still handling heavy topics. And the spice was top notch 🔥. Will recommend this to all of my alien-lover friends - looking forward to the next one!
March 20, 2025
I loved this book! I really enjoyed Ruby's journey as the story progressed, and Ozun and Tral were so sweet to her. Along with a romance that gave me the warm fuzzies, there are some great spicy scenes that heat things up. I loved Brightclaw as the "scene-stealing bestie" with his matter-of-fact, straightforward manner and how he became a great friend for Ruby. I highly recommend checking this book out if you like alien romance!
April 12, 2025
This was such a sweet and spicy story about three people falling in love. Ozun, Tral, and Ruby were adorable...especially Ozun. Ozun has an almost boyish charm. Tral's tentacles were hot! Ruby was so sweet. She survived so much and held such goodness in her.
While this is book two in the series, it can be read and easily understood without reading book 1, imo.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book.
While this is book two in the series, it can be read and easily understood without reading book 1, imo.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book.
February 22, 2025
I received an ARC copy, but all opinions are my own.
Intriguing and erotic. Kinky sci-fi featuring a poly-amorous relationship that got me thinking about all the possibilities in Star Wars for some reason (lol), so what's not to like?
Super enjoyable read, fast paced and the spicy was 💯. Excited for book 3.
Intriguing and erotic. Kinky sci-fi featuring a poly-amorous relationship that got me thinking about all the possibilities in Star Wars for some reason (lol), so what's not to like?
Super enjoyable read, fast paced and the spicy was 💯. Excited for book 3.
April 1, 2025
"Bruises faded, wounds healed, but some scars would never be forgotten."
The Perfect Ruby is fantastic. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and drama, the story holding my attention from start to finish.
Ozun, Tral and Ruby find a cozy comfort in each other as they navigate their way.
Seriously great spice, tentacles are sooooo interesting.
I am excited to read more from this author.
*Arc Reader
The Perfect Ruby is fantastic. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and drama, the story holding my attention from start to finish.
Ozun, Tral and Ruby find a cozy comfort in each other as they navigate their way.
Seriously great spice, tentacles are sooooo interesting.
I am excited to read more from this author.
*Arc Reader
January 29, 2025
I got an arc, but my rating/review are my own!
Book 2 in the coalition universe series
This was literally what I needed right now🤧🤧🤧 had such an amazing time 🤧💕💕
Tropes:
☆sci-fi romance
☆space crew
☆mmf
☆only one bed
☆augmented anatomy
☆oviposition 👀
☆tentacles👀👀
Book 2 in the coalition universe series
This was literally what I needed right now🤧🤧🤧 had such an amazing time 🤧💕💕
Tropes:
☆sci-fi romance
☆space crew
☆mmf
☆only one bed
☆augmented anatomy
☆oviposition 👀
☆tentacles👀👀
February 18, 2025
Very good!
And I knew I didn’t like that a-hole cendrun
I hope there are more books to this series!!
Also LOVE asexual representation with Brightclaw 🖤🩶🤍💜. Maybe he could get a book with a platonic relationship (queer-platonic-relationship??)
And I knew I didn’t like that a-hole cendrun
I hope there are more books to this series!!
Also LOVE asexual representation with Brightclaw 🖤🩶🤍💜. Maybe he could get a book with a platonic relationship (queer-platonic-relationship??)
February 21, 2025
Arc review
I love Ruby, she is such a strong character and getting to know her Story was great. Also love the relationship between Tral and Ozun 🫶🏼
Overall a great story with some really nice characters ❤️
I love Ruby, she is such a strong character and getting to know her Story was great. Also love the relationship between Tral and Ozun 🫶🏼
Overall a great story with some really nice characters ❤️
March 19, 2025
Whooo weee! This was smoking hot! I loved the found family trope. But really? I was here for the smut and I was not let down what so ever! This is my first book by this author and I most definitely will be reading more!
March 20, 2025
perfect ruby, perfect book!
Where are my monster/alien romance lovers?!The Perfect Ruby is a wonderful blend of heart and heat! If you thought Gaurdians of the Galaxy could have used more kissing this book is for you!!
Where are my monster/alien romance lovers?!The Perfect Ruby is a wonderful blend of heart and heat! If you thought Gaurdians of the Galaxy could have used more kissing this book is for you!!
March 23, 2025
I'm bummed. I loved A Bond of Blood and was thrilled to see this book in the series just released. It simply wasn't for me. I couldn't get into it and I don't care for MMF romances, much preferring no sword crossing and all the MMC's attention to be on the FMC.
March 28, 2025
She was an alien who could shapeshift into anyone, any alien. Yet she barely shapeshifts. At first, she is a prisoner and can't change shape due to cuffs. Even when they get removed, she usually stayed in one shape. It felt like a wasted plotline.
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