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Alien Fated Mates #2
Eighty Percent Beef Twenty Percent Cake
All it takes is one giant intergalactic leap of faith…
When ambitious Ginger is diagnosed with a rare blood disease, she seeks solace far from Earth. The last thing she expects is to end up trapped inside a volcano, running from a monstrous sandworm. And the last thing she wants is to rely on an infuriating, overprotective alien as her only hope of survival. She doesn’t need his help—or his ridiculous insistence on keeping her safe.
JayJay never planned on rescuing a stubborn human female, but protecting her awakens something primal inside him. Exiled from his home planet for a crime he didn’t commit, he knows better than to dream of companionship. Yet the more time he spends with Ginger, the more his instincts scream one impossible she belongs to him.
When a life-saving treatment forces them into an unbreakable bond, Ginger and JayJay must face the impossible—could fate have destined them to be mates? Or will an old enemy destroy Ginger’s prospects for a cure and shatter their fragile chance at love before it even begins?
When ambitious Ginger is diagnosed with a rare blood disease, she seeks solace far from Earth. The last thing she expects is to end up trapped inside a volcano, running from a monstrous sandworm. And the last thing she wants is to rely on an infuriating, overprotective alien as her only hope of survival. She doesn’t need his help—or his ridiculous insistence on keeping her safe.
JayJay never planned on rescuing a stubborn human female, but protecting her awakens something primal inside him. Exiled from his home planet for a crime he didn’t commit, he knows better than to dream of companionship. Yet the more time he spends with Ginger, the more his instincts scream one impossible she belongs to him.
When a life-saving treatment forces them into an unbreakable bond, Ginger and JayJay must face the impossible—could fate have destined them to be mates? Or will an old enemy destroy Ginger’s prospects for a cure and shatter their fragile chance at love before it even begins?
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2025
24 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Chris Redd
3 books47 followersWould you like to review future ARCs from me? How about gaining access to exclusive content! If so I'd love to hear from you. Sign up for my newsletter at www.chrisredd.ca.
Chris Redd has been dreaming up stories since she can remember. Her attraction to the romance genre began in the dusty corridors of her tiny local library, browsing the curled corners of Sweet Valley Highs and Sweet Dreams. Now she writes her own twist on romance.
She loves to craft vivid sci-fi worlds where flawed humans fall in love with equally flawed aliens. She is the author of the steamy Alien Fated Mates series.
When she’s not writing, you can find Chris Redd exploring the forests and the coastline with her Toy Aussiedoodle or trying to capture the perfect video of her daughter’s rabbit doing a binkie.
Chris Redd has been dreaming up stories since she can remember. Her attraction to the romance genre began in the dusty corridors of her tiny local library, browsing the curled corners of Sweet Valley Highs and Sweet Dreams. Now she writes her own twist on romance.
She loves to craft vivid sci-fi worlds where flawed humans fall in love with equally flawed aliens. She is the author of the steamy Alien Fated Mates series.
When she’s not writing, you can find Chris Redd exploring the forests and the coastline with her Toy Aussiedoodle or trying to capture the perfect video of her daughter’s rabbit doing a binkie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
June 16, 2025
3.5 Stars
Author Chris Redd has delivered another fun, immersive, and sexy sequel in this very morish sci-fi romance series, about alien castoffs and the human beings who become their fated mates.
Veering from the M/M dynamic of book one, this M/F romance picks up immediately where Geo and Makir’s story ended (in 20% Stud 80% Muffin), still on the planet of Tern, as the new colonisation continues to grow together, shaping new friendships and forging new unexpected love stories.
In book one, we met gentle-giant Rockdweller JayJay and sassy human female Ginger—one a mighty warrior banished to Tern, convicted of a heinous crime he didn’t commit; the other a renowned fashion-designer, secretly hiding her chronic-health woes as a short-stay visitor from Earth.
The pair clash immediately, sharing very electric push-and-pull energy, much like Geo and Makir, both initially misinterpreting actions and intentions, until a deeper understanding and connection forms between them, shattering expectations and leading to the kind of emotional and physical bond so few individuals, across the galaxy, are lucky enough to experience.
JayJay and Ginger were fun side characters, but they ended up being even better romantic leads. Their relationship was so lovely in its evolution, as they found themselves growing closer through some fun forced proximity and even quirkier health related reasons, that often brought a chuckle out of me—or at the very least a fond smile.
I’m always a sucker for a good, well-crafted sci-fi romance, but I certainly appreciated the blending of a few other themes and tropes that kept me glued to the pages late into the night, including, but not limited to:
☆ Fated Mates
☆ Interspecies Romance
☆ Chronic illness rep
☆ Virgin MMC/Gentle Giant
☆ Hurt-comfort
☆ Explicit steaminess
☆ He Falls First
☆ Found Family
There were also some exciting moments of action and adventure, as the MCs and their friends worked tirelessly to keep their colonisation safe from some very big and dangerous threats to their survival. Once again, showcasing world-building that was fresh and vivid, giving me mixed visual vibes, the likes of Star Wars, Dune, and even the lush inner-earth scenes from the Journey to the Center of the Earth movie.
After some thought, I’ve decided I enjoyed this sequel even more than its predecessor, preferring the story arc and the romance to a greater degree. Due to the large number of engaging and amusing characters, I can foresee this series stretching out into something even more enjoyable and exciting with the potential for so many more fated mates pairings to come.
***A special thanks to the author and publishers (via Book Sirens) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Author Chris Redd has delivered another fun, immersive, and sexy sequel in this very morish sci-fi romance series, about alien castoffs and the human beings who become their fated mates.
Veering from the M/M dynamic of book one, this M/F romance picks up immediately where Geo and Makir’s story ended (in 20% Stud 80% Muffin), still on the planet of Tern, as the new colonisation continues to grow together, shaping new friendships and forging new unexpected love stories.
In book one, we met gentle-giant Rockdweller JayJay and sassy human female Ginger—one a mighty warrior banished to Tern, convicted of a heinous crime he didn’t commit; the other a renowned fashion-designer, secretly hiding her chronic-health woes as a short-stay visitor from Earth.
The pair clash immediately, sharing very electric push-and-pull energy, much like Geo and Makir, both initially misinterpreting actions and intentions, until a deeper understanding and connection forms between them, shattering expectations and leading to the kind of emotional and physical bond so few individuals, across the galaxy, are lucky enough to experience.
JayJay and Ginger were fun side characters, but they ended up being even better romantic leads. Their relationship was so lovely in its evolution, as they found themselves growing closer through some fun forced proximity and even quirkier health related reasons, that often brought a chuckle out of me—or at the very least a fond smile.
I’m always a sucker for a good, well-crafted sci-fi romance, but I certainly appreciated the blending of a few other themes and tropes that kept me glued to the pages late into the night, including, but not limited to:
☆ Fated Mates
☆ Interspecies Romance
☆ Chronic illness rep
☆ Virgin MMC/Gentle Giant
☆ Hurt-comfort
☆ Explicit steaminess
☆ He Falls First
☆ Found Family
There were also some exciting moments of action and adventure, as the MCs and their friends worked tirelessly to keep their colonisation safe from some very big and dangerous threats to their survival. Once again, showcasing world-building that was fresh and vivid, giving me mixed visual vibes, the likes of Star Wars, Dune, and even the lush inner-earth scenes from the Journey to the Center of the Earth movie.
After some thought, I’ve decided I enjoyed this sequel even more than its predecessor, preferring the story arc and the romance to a greater degree. Due to the large number of engaging and amusing characters, I can foresee this series stretching out into something even more enjoyable and exciting with the potential for so many more fated mates pairings to come.
***A special thanks to the author and publishers (via Book Sirens) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2025
This is a 3.5 star read for me.
Let me start by saying that when this book was good, it was sooooo good. I burned through the pages in those moments.
I loved Ginger and JayJay and once settled into their world I absolutely loved being there. It was perfectly sweet without being sickly, about 3 chilli peppers for the spice and a good arsenal of side characters, I suspect, will be preparing us for the next instalment.
I haven’t read Geo’s book yet (the previous to this) but I’m interested enough to have downloaded it on kindle, so I will be reading that.
This gets 3.5 stars because I was EVENTUALLY able to get elbow deep in the story and characters which I enjoyed in this full length novel that has sat with me for a handful of days while I relaxed in an evening.
The reason it’s not a solid 4 stars is because it took me until about 30% in to actually be able to get into the story. There were a lot of unnecessary sentence strictures that made it difficult for me to follow. Part of which I am sure is because I jumped in at the second book, however, it was a lot of words to say things that could’ve just been said.
Paragraphs had no breaks which messed with the sense of time passing and switching of scenes in my mind.
And finally, the interrupted vocabulary. Through the whole book a character would speak. Another character would change the subject. Then the character would jump back to the interrupted topic. Once or twice, fine, but it was a consistent thing through the book and added to the previous issues regarding the ease of following the words.
overall, this story was worth experiencing and with previous issues highlighted, I do hope others will find the enjoyment I had. Happy blanting reading 🤗
I was lucky enough to received a free copy of this book and am leaving an honest review of my experience.
Let me start by saying that when this book was good, it was sooooo good. I burned through the pages in those moments.
I loved Ginger and JayJay and once settled into their world I absolutely loved being there. It was perfectly sweet without being sickly, about 3 chilli peppers for the spice and a good arsenal of side characters, I suspect, will be preparing us for the next instalment.
I haven’t read Geo’s book yet (the previous to this) but I’m interested enough to have downloaded it on kindle, so I will be reading that.
This gets 3.5 stars because I was EVENTUALLY able to get elbow deep in the story and characters which I enjoyed in this full length novel that has sat with me for a handful of days while I relaxed in an evening.
The reason it’s not a solid 4 stars is because it took me until about 30% in to actually be able to get into the story. There were a lot of unnecessary sentence strictures that made it difficult for me to follow. Part of which I am sure is because I jumped in at the second book, however, it was a lot of words to say things that could’ve just been said.
Paragraphs had no breaks which messed with the sense of time passing and switching of scenes in my mind.
And finally, the interrupted vocabulary. Through the whole book a character would speak. Another character would change the subject. Then the character would jump back to the interrupted topic. Once or twice, fine, but it was a consistent thing through the book and added to the previous issues regarding the ease of following the words.
overall, this story was worth experiencing and with previous issues highlighted, I do hope others will find the enjoyment I had. Happy blanting reading 🤗
I was lucky enough to received a free copy of this book and am leaving an honest review of my experience.
February 18, 2025
I'm giving this a 4.25 stars and 2 chili peppers
This was a new author for me so it did take me a little bit to get into the book without having the foundation for the world that the first book probably provided. Once I did, though, I was definitely interested!
This has a low level of angst, which is nice if you prefer the sweet stories but enjoy a little frustration along with it. Essentially we've got a cinnamon roll MMC who is awkward around our FMC and really doesn't want to be interested in her. I found his awkwardness really charming. The author made the FMC super stubborn so not even halfway through the book, I got really annoyed by her crappy behavior towards JayJay and almost hoped he'd ditch her for someone else.
The tension between them builds pretty well and even though I rolled my eyes at the plot device that brings them together, it still worked for me.
And then there's the elusive "coil". There's a lot of dancing around what it actually is (those of us who've read a lot of alien romance know you can pretty much have anything below the belt) and it was vague, but if the guy is a rock dweller and he's 8 feet tall, there's a lot of curiosity building about that coil. I think the author could have given this guy's junk a superbowl halftime show when it finally was revealed, but it was more subdued than that.
I still liked the story, I was incredibly charmed by JayJay and glad the FMC finally got her shit together and treated him right. I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for other books by this author!
This was a new author for me so it did take me a little bit to get into the book without having the foundation for the world that the first book probably provided. Once I did, though, I was definitely interested!
This has a low level of angst, which is nice if you prefer the sweet stories but enjoy a little frustration along with it. Essentially we've got a cinnamon roll MMC who is awkward around our FMC and really doesn't want to be interested in her. I found his awkwardness really charming. The author made the FMC super stubborn so not even halfway through the book, I got really annoyed by her crappy behavior towards JayJay and almost hoped he'd ditch her for someone else.
The tension between them builds pretty well and even though I rolled my eyes at the plot device that brings them together, it still worked for me.
And then there's the elusive "coil". There's a lot of dancing around what it actually is (those of us who've read a lot of alien romance know you can pretty much have anything below the belt) and it was vague, but if the guy is a rock dweller and he's 8 feet tall, there's a lot of curiosity building about that coil. I think the author could have given this guy's junk a superbowl halftime show when it finally was revealed, but it was more subdued than that.
I still liked the story, I was incredibly charmed by JayJay and glad the FMC finally got her shit together and treated him right. I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for other books by this author!
February 22, 2025
“My mind and body have claimed you as my own, and my silver pearl skin and linnea cuffs speak my heart’s truth.”
I enjoyed this story, the author did a good job expressing the angst and doubts ,and JayJay sense of unworthiness.
Ginger character balances him well,she's strong willed even suffering from a rare blood disease.
I specially enjoyed their banter, and the sweet ackwardness of JayJay.
A good world building, well developed characters and spicy scenes with a virgin MMC.
And a very special mention to cute Nebula, JayJay animal companion.
I enjoyed this story, the author did a good job expressing the angst and doubts ,and JayJay sense of unworthiness.
Ginger character balances him well,she's strong willed even suffering from a rare blood disease.
I specially enjoyed their banter, and the sweet ackwardness of JayJay.
A good world building, well developed characters and spicy scenes with a virgin MMC.
And a very special mention to cute Nebula, JayJay animal companion.
March 29, 2025
I am done with this author. I read the first book and loved the writing, the world building and the concept but hated one of the MCs. So I went into this book hoping for something better but nope another shitty MC. Apparently that's how this author likes it, but that's not for me. I need to like the MCs to enjoy a book. So you've got a disease that's killing you but you're just gonna suffer in silence instead of telling your friends. That's so stupid. You're in danger but you want to be "independent" yelling "I'm not going to sit here. I'll help!" How??? You're sick and weak, sit the F down so you're not in the way. I hate characters like this, know your limits and stop hindering people just to show off.
The book ended well, just like the last one but I just can't force myself to try another one. I was going to do 1 star but I liked the ending so changed it to 2.
The book ended well, just like the last one but I just can't force myself to try another one. I was going to do 1 star but I liked the ending so changed it to 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2025
I loved how sweet and sexy this book is. I enjoyed that the world is so immersive and you can really imagine the planets.
I enjoyed the beautiful journey of experiencing the FMC fall in love with Jayjay. His uncertainty in himself warring with his love for her was so endearing along with his protective energy was just chefs kiss.
I always love when authors develop side characters well and she did just that. I love a found family and her new tribe supports her while providing her with a purpose.
I can’t wait to see what happens next.
❤️Sci-Fi
❤️ He falls first
❤️ Spice 🌶️🌶️
❤️ Fated Mates
❤️ Found Family
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I enjoyed the beautiful journey of experiencing the FMC fall in love with Jayjay. His uncertainty in himself warring with his love for her was so endearing along with his protective energy was just chefs kiss.
I always love when authors develop side characters well and she did just that. I love a found family and her new tribe supports her while providing her with a purpose.
I can’t wait to see what happens next.
❤️Sci-Fi
❤️ He falls first
❤️ Spice 🌶️🌶️
❤️ Fated Mates
❤️ Found Family
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 12, 2025
In this second book, the pairing is M/F. Leo's bestie Ginger continues the awkward dance around Leo's Rock Dweller foreman JayJay that they started in the first book. But then, the universe throws them the dumbest reason ever to have sex, and they kind of have to figure out what's going on between them.
Also, the nasty giant burrowing worm returns with a vengeance (and with its family,) and we learn a lot more about JayJay's background and why he is on Tern in the first place.
I love this universe, and hope there'll be more books.
Also, the nasty giant burrowing worm returns with a vengeance (and with its family,) and we learn a lot more about JayJay's background and why he is on Tern in the first place.
I love this universe, and hope there'll be more books.
November 23, 2025
Eighty % Beef Twenty % Cake is book 2 in Chris Redd's Alien Fated Mates Series.
This story follows the developing relationship between JayJay, a rock dweller and Ginger, a human woman. I love these two characters and I loved this story.
Ginger has a rare blood disorder and is becoming increasingly unwell. She hasn't told her best friend Geo and she had her head stuck in the sand with deep denial. She is also pushing herself physically to the point where she has no choice but to meet her medical needs.
JayJay has a troubled past, having been exiled from his home planet to Tern, for a crime he did not commit. JayJay does not want the commitment of keeping an eye on Ginger, but when they are attacked by a monstrous worm, and stuck inside a volcano for safety, they realise there might be more between them than they initially believed.
Ginger and JayJay have amazing chemistry. Their relationship has a nice amount of angst and tension, tenderness and sweetness. There is a lot of action in the book, great pacing and more understanding about the history of Tern, the fires that cleanse, and the creature that survived the impossible destruction years before.
I love that the characters discover a home in a place that is harsh, dangerous and beautiful. There is such fun and imagination in this book. Chris Redd writes in a smooth and engaging way and her characters are very well developed. AND honestly, I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series.
This story follows the developing relationship between JayJay, a rock dweller and Ginger, a human woman. I love these two characters and I loved this story.
Ginger has a rare blood disorder and is becoming increasingly unwell. She hasn't told her best friend Geo and she had her head stuck in the sand with deep denial. She is also pushing herself physically to the point where she has no choice but to meet her medical needs.
JayJay has a troubled past, having been exiled from his home planet to Tern, for a crime he did not commit. JayJay does not want the commitment of keeping an eye on Ginger, but when they are attacked by a monstrous worm, and stuck inside a volcano for safety, they realise there might be more between them than they initially believed.
Ginger and JayJay have amazing chemistry. Their relationship has a nice amount of angst and tension, tenderness and sweetness. There is a lot of action in the book, great pacing and more understanding about the history of Tern, the fires that cleanse, and the creature that survived the impossible destruction years before.
I love that the characters discover a home in a place that is harsh, dangerous and beautiful. There is such fun and imagination in this book. Chris Redd writes in a smooth and engaging way and her characters are very well developed. AND honestly, I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2025
“All it takes is one giant intergalactic leap of faith…”
Chris Redd has done it again 😭💗—Eighty Percent Beef Twenty Percent Cake was such a ridiculously fun, steamy, emotional sci-fi romance that had me kicking my feet and grinning like a loon, only to have my heart ache two pages later. 💥🍰👽 This sequel was everything I didn’t know I needed and more, expanding the rich world of Tern with warmth, found family, life-or-death stakes, and yes, a very large and very swoony alien warrior.
While 20% Stud 80% Muffin gave us the explosive chemistry of Makir and Geo (still obsessed, btw), this book pivoted into a M/F dynamic with JayJay—a gentle giant wrongly exiled to Tern—and Ginger, a bold, stylish human who’s secretly battling a rare and life-threatening blood condition. Their banter was electric ⚡, their misunderstandings genuinely funny or touching, and their eventual closeness so earned and swoon-worthy 😭❤️.
The plot kicked off right in the thick of it—literally—with Ginger trapped inside a volcano, being chased by a monstrous sandworm 🐍🌋. JayJay swoops in like a massive, brooding space-hero (but, like, the cinnamon roll kind 😭), and despite their clashing personalities (and her stubborn refusal to accept help), the two slowly but surely find something deeper than either of them expected. There’s forced proximity (😏), medical bonding, and the kind of emotional growth that had me wiping away tears one moment and giggling the next.
Ginger’s chronic illness rep was handled with care and honesty, and it really added an extra layer of vulnerability and courage to her character 💉💔. And JayJay? Oh my HEART—this sweet, loyal, fiercely protective virgin alien just wanted someone to choose him for once. And watching that happen? Watching her choose him again and again? My chest physically hurt. 🥹💘
Besides the romance (which was 10/10 🔥), we also got high-stakes action and danger, as a looming threat rises against the new Tern colony. The worldbuilding remained lush and vivid—giving me Star Wars meets Dune meets Journey to the Center of the Earth vibes 🪐🌿⛏️—and I loved revisiting familiar characters while meeting new faces, all equally quirky and lovable.
✨ This one’s perfect for fans of:
• Alien romance with heart and heat 💓👽
• Sassy heroines and protective, soft alpha heroes 💅💪
• Virgin MMCs (done so well here 🥹🔥)
• Found family 🫂
• Forced proximity 🛌
• Chronic illness rep (that’s tender and real) 🩺
• “He falls first” energy 🫠
• Hurt/comfort 🤕❤️
• Fated mates 🌌💍
• Life-saving bond → unbreakable connection 💉💓
• Enemies (but not really) to lovers 👀
Ginger and JayJay stole the show. 💫 Their chemistry, their growth, their slow unfurling bond felt so tender and satisfying—and the steam? Deliciously explicit 😳🔥. There were so many laugh-out-loud moments (one involving medication-induced side effects that had me cackling), but also deep, emotional beats about trust, belonging, and letting yourself be loved despite the broken pieces you carry. 💔🧩
This book is morish in every way—sweet, spicy, and impossible to stop once you’ve started. Chris Redd, I’m ready for the next alien-to-love story. Take me back to Tern already 😭🛸💖
📚 Read this if you love:
• Slow-burn sci-fi romance with real heart
• Big alien softies with big, uh, feelings 😏
• Heroines who are glamorous and gutsy
• Feel-good, action-packed, steamy adventures in space 💫🔥
Let’s be real—I’d read anything titled Eighty Percent Beef Twenty Percent Cake just out of curiosity. But this book? This one made me feel. Thank you again to the author and BookSirens for the ARC—I’m so glad I took the leap 💗🪐
Chris Redd has done it again 😭💗—Eighty Percent Beef Twenty Percent Cake was such a ridiculously fun, steamy, emotional sci-fi romance that had me kicking my feet and grinning like a loon, only to have my heart ache two pages later. 💥🍰👽 This sequel was everything I didn’t know I needed and more, expanding the rich world of Tern with warmth, found family, life-or-death stakes, and yes, a very large and very swoony alien warrior.
While 20% Stud 80% Muffin gave us the explosive chemistry of Makir and Geo (still obsessed, btw), this book pivoted into a M/F dynamic with JayJay—a gentle giant wrongly exiled to Tern—and Ginger, a bold, stylish human who’s secretly battling a rare and life-threatening blood condition. Their banter was electric ⚡, their misunderstandings genuinely funny or touching, and their eventual closeness so earned and swoon-worthy 😭❤️.
The plot kicked off right in the thick of it—literally—with Ginger trapped inside a volcano, being chased by a monstrous sandworm 🐍🌋. JayJay swoops in like a massive, brooding space-hero (but, like, the cinnamon roll kind 😭), and despite their clashing personalities (and her stubborn refusal to accept help), the two slowly but surely find something deeper than either of them expected. There’s forced proximity (😏), medical bonding, and the kind of emotional growth that had me wiping away tears one moment and giggling the next.
Ginger’s chronic illness rep was handled with care and honesty, and it really added an extra layer of vulnerability and courage to her character 💉💔. And JayJay? Oh my HEART—this sweet, loyal, fiercely protective virgin alien just wanted someone to choose him for once. And watching that happen? Watching her choose him again and again? My chest physically hurt. 🥹💘
Besides the romance (which was 10/10 🔥), we also got high-stakes action and danger, as a looming threat rises against the new Tern colony. The worldbuilding remained lush and vivid—giving me Star Wars meets Dune meets Journey to the Center of the Earth vibes 🪐🌿⛏️—and I loved revisiting familiar characters while meeting new faces, all equally quirky and lovable.
✨ This one’s perfect for fans of:
• Alien romance with heart and heat 💓👽
• Sassy heroines and protective, soft alpha heroes 💅💪
• Virgin MMCs (done so well here 🥹🔥)
• Found family 🫂
• Forced proximity 🛌
• Chronic illness rep (that’s tender and real) 🩺
• “He falls first” energy 🫠
• Hurt/comfort 🤕❤️
• Fated mates 🌌💍
• Life-saving bond → unbreakable connection 💉💓
• Enemies (but not really) to lovers 👀
Ginger and JayJay stole the show. 💫 Their chemistry, their growth, their slow unfurling bond felt so tender and satisfying—and the steam? Deliciously explicit 😳🔥. There were so many laugh-out-loud moments (one involving medication-induced side effects that had me cackling), but also deep, emotional beats about trust, belonging, and letting yourself be loved despite the broken pieces you carry. 💔🧩
This book is morish in every way—sweet, spicy, and impossible to stop once you’ve started. Chris Redd, I’m ready for the next alien-to-love story. Take me back to Tern already 😭🛸💖
📚 Read this if you love:
• Slow-burn sci-fi romance with real heart
• Big alien softies with big, uh, feelings 😏
• Heroines who are glamorous and gutsy
• Feel-good, action-packed, steamy adventures in space 💫🔥
Let’s be real—I’d read anything titled Eighty Percent Beef Twenty Percent Cake just out of curiosity. But this book? This one made me feel. Thank you again to the author and BookSirens for the ARC—I’m so glad I took the leap 💗🪐
September 14, 2025
Eighty Percent Beef Twenty Percent Cake: Review
This book was so fun! Much like Chris Redd’s first book in the Alien Fated Mates series, I found myself fully enjoying the unique world, the different alien races, the banter, danger, misunderstandings and… fabulously hilarious “life-saving treatment” that forces Ginger and JayJay to deal with their baggage and face their fears.
From the tiniest character (oh my how I loved this little being) to the largest, Chris Redd’s universe will sweep you away into a whirlwind of stubborn aliens (and humans!) who maybe, just maybe will get a second chance at a life they never dreamed possible.
I really enjoyed the lore in this and how Chris Redd wove ancient tradition into the mix. This was so intriguing!
Loveable JayJay may be stubborn as all heck – wait? More stubborn than the fierce fmc Ginger? He sure as heck has met his match! The two will take you on a journey filled with deep feelings, laughable, joyous moments and sadness that’ll have you weeping – I so love this series!
This second installment dives into a whole other underground world of delight. You will, no doubt, fall in love with the stunning descriptions and long to wiggle your toes in that springy moss. So many amazing details here brought to life in a story that will have you rooting for our main characters like never before!
Be prepared for steamy spice, found family, chronic illness representation and a heck of a good time!
This book was so fun! Much like Chris Redd’s first book in the Alien Fated Mates series, I found myself fully enjoying the unique world, the different alien races, the banter, danger, misunderstandings and… fabulously hilarious “life-saving treatment” that forces Ginger and JayJay to deal with their baggage and face their fears.
From the tiniest character (oh my how I loved this little being) to the largest, Chris Redd’s universe will sweep you away into a whirlwind of stubborn aliens (and humans!) who maybe, just maybe will get a second chance at a life they never dreamed possible.
I really enjoyed the lore in this and how Chris Redd wove ancient tradition into the mix. This was so intriguing!
Loveable JayJay may be stubborn as all heck – wait? More stubborn than the fierce fmc Ginger? He sure as heck has met his match! The two will take you on a journey filled with deep feelings, laughable, joyous moments and sadness that’ll have you weeping – I so love this series!
This second installment dives into a whole other underground world of delight. You will, no doubt, fall in love with the stunning descriptions and long to wiggle your toes in that springy moss. So many amazing details here brought to life in a story that will have you rooting for our main characters like never before!
Be prepared for steamy spice, found family, chronic illness representation and a heck of a good time!
March 11, 2025
4.5 stars. JayJay, the male rock-appearing alien humanoid lead, has been exiled to planet Tern because he was framed and found guilty of killing a female of his species. His boss and friend has left him in charge of the care of Ginger, the female human lead, though she’s certain she doesn’t need his assistance.
Until her degenerative disease increases speed of deterioration and the doctor recommends JayJay’s emissions as a solution. Desperate to get back to Earth for a professional competition, Ginger is willing to give it a shot, not realising that JayJay’s people tend to commit for life.
JayJay never expected to find a partner and, though he’s embarrassed that he misunderstood Ginger’s desire, he’s willing to do what he can to help. But both of them are feeling more than professional feelings for each other.
And JayJay’s past is about to come back to try killing him again…
This story is dual POV, well written, and a fast-paced, sci fi, alien humanoid/human, struggling with disability and social expectations, steamy romance. I enjoyed Ginger’s personal strength and independence, though I sympathised with the source of it. I enjoyed that she was willing to apologise when she was too stubborn. I enjoyed JayJay’s sincerity and commitment, and his willingness to give Ginger whatever she needed. I enjoyed their steamy intimate scenes and appreciated JayJay’s willingness to ask for help rather than just bumbling along. I enjoyed the emotional and relational development. I enjoyed the integrated secondary characters, and the found family feeling. I enjoyed the comeuppance of the antagonist.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Until her degenerative disease increases speed of deterioration and the doctor recommends JayJay’s emissions as a solution. Desperate to get back to Earth for a professional competition, Ginger is willing to give it a shot, not realising that JayJay’s people tend to commit for life.
JayJay never expected to find a partner and, though he’s embarrassed that he misunderstood Ginger’s desire, he’s willing to do what he can to help. But both of them are feeling more than professional feelings for each other.
And JayJay’s past is about to come back to try killing him again…
This story is dual POV, well written, and a fast-paced, sci fi, alien humanoid/human, struggling with disability and social expectations, steamy romance. I enjoyed Ginger’s personal strength and independence, though I sympathised with the source of it. I enjoyed that she was willing to apologise when she was too stubborn. I enjoyed JayJay’s sincerity and commitment, and his willingness to give Ginger whatever she needed. I enjoyed their steamy intimate scenes and appreciated JayJay’s willingness to ask for help rather than just bumbling along. I enjoyed the emotional and relational development. I enjoyed the integrated secondary characters, and the found family feeling. I enjoyed the comeuppance of the antagonist.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
March 10, 2025
The book is a fun and easy read. If you're a fan of fated mates—where each character has their own history but simply can't resist the pull—or if you love rich and original alien worlds, this book is for you.
This is the second book by Chris Redd that I’ve read, and it retains the same charming and humorous storytelling style.
JayJay is a gray-skinned giant from the planet Yagras, where females are so rare that they must be protected at all costs. Naturally, very few males have a partner, let alone a fated mate. Think that’s bad for JayJay? Not yet—because he also finds himself unjustly stripped of his position as Lead Protector of the Elite Guard and exiled to another planet for a murder he didn't commit. Now he's a construction worker on the planet Tern, building dwellings for multiple alien species—some winged and beaked, some fire-breathing, some Rock Dwellers like himself.
Enter Ginger, a human visiting a friend from Earth. She's tough and independent, with a great job as a designer, but she’s also ill. And of course, she doesn’t think she needs JayJay’s protection—or so she tells herself. She wants him to believe that too… until she doesn’t.
The story takes them from complete denial of their feelings to fated mates who build a future together and right some past wrongs.
I loved the chemistry between the characters and the imaginative world Chris Redd creates. A special mention goes to Nebula, JayJay's pet, who chooses him.
Loved the book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the second book by Chris Redd that I’ve read, and it retains the same charming and humorous storytelling style.
JayJay is a gray-skinned giant from the planet Yagras, where females are so rare that they must be protected at all costs. Naturally, very few males have a partner, let alone a fated mate. Think that’s bad for JayJay? Not yet—because he also finds himself unjustly stripped of his position as Lead Protector of the Elite Guard and exiled to another planet for a murder he didn't commit. Now he's a construction worker on the planet Tern, building dwellings for multiple alien species—some winged and beaked, some fire-breathing, some Rock Dwellers like himself.
Enter Ginger, a human visiting a friend from Earth. She's tough and independent, with a great job as a designer, but she’s also ill. And of course, she doesn’t think she needs JayJay’s protection—or so she tells herself. She wants him to believe that too… until she doesn’t.
The story takes them from complete denial of their feelings to fated mates who build a future together and right some past wrongs.
I loved the chemistry between the characters and the imaginative world Chris Redd creates. A special mention goes to Nebula, JayJay's pet, who chooses him.
Loved the book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 20, 2025
Good God! Men and their pride. Jayjay’s is a whole character in itself.
This is a fun read about giant worms leaning more towards Tremors than Dune. I liked the mirror imagery of the spiral of teeth in the “giant veiny worms” and the spiraled ridge on the male Rock Dweller’s “coil”. Very clever.
I had a good laugh that this book started with a trigger warning about misogyny when Ginger started as a twit who refuses to take care of herself and constantly gets herself in trouble. If anyone ever needed a keeper, it’s her. But she matures once she’s forced to confront her illness and she learns not only a little common sense, but also that it doesn’t diminish her independence to accept help once in a while.
JayJay came from a culture with few females. Not only was he programmed to protect such a valuable resource, but he also had no experience with interacting with them. Ginger’s careful tutelage was charming and sweet, and JayJay turned out to be quite a quick study. He soon learned how to help her and fulfill his need to protect while not infringing on her rights or desires for personal freedom.
Alas, the medicinal semen just did not work for me. Booo. In a world of space flight and hover bikes they couldn’t figure out a way to extract or synthesize what she needed? Also. Why semen? Such a contrived plot device. They would have gotten together without it anyway.
This is a fun read about giant worms leaning more towards Tremors than Dune. I liked the mirror imagery of the spiral of teeth in the “giant veiny worms” and the spiraled ridge on the male Rock Dweller’s “coil”. Very clever.
I had a good laugh that this book started with a trigger warning about misogyny when Ginger started as a twit who refuses to take care of herself and constantly gets herself in trouble. If anyone ever needed a keeper, it’s her. But she matures once she’s forced to confront her illness and she learns not only a little common sense, but also that it doesn’t diminish her independence to accept help once in a while.
JayJay came from a culture with few females. Not only was he programmed to protect such a valuable resource, but he also had no experience with interacting with them. Ginger’s careful tutelage was charming and sweet, and JayJay turned out to be quite a quick study. He soon learned how to help her and fulfill his need to protect while not infringing on her rights or desires for personal freedom.
Alas, the medicinal semen just did not work for me. Booo. In a world of space flight and hover bikes they couldn’t figure out a way to extract or synthesize what she needed? Also. Why semen? Such a contrived plot device. They would have gotten together without it anyway.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2025
Ginger and JayJay sure have an adventure waiting fot them in this story. It's a perfect addition to the series, but you don't need to read the 1st book before this one to enjoy it allt all.
Its an intergalactic love story, with dangerous creatures, wrongful convictions, and a life-threatening medical condition. Ginger has her work cut out for her after being medically diagnosed, traveling the universe, and being the quicker-stitcher-upper others depend on. Now throw in our local JayJay who is a fierce warrior and protector, with a hidden past, that longs for a loving and purposeful future that may not ever come to be. These two have their work cut out for them. Not only do they face outside sources of opposition, they each have their own worries of self-worthiness and denials to deal with.
You will love this story! It's filled with moments of laughter, intense scenes of fear, sparks of hope, and some very steamy bedroom antics. There's a rollercoaster of emotions to navigate through and experience. But this book will have you wanting to binge read it all to the end, while still craving a bit more. I can't wait until the next in the series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Its an intergalactic love story, with dangerous creatures, wrongful convictions, and a life-threatening medical condition. Ginger has her work cut out for her after being medically diagnosed, traveling the universe, and being the quicker-stitcher-upper others depend on. Now throw in our local JayJay who is a fierce warrior and protector, with a hidden past, that longs for a loving and purposeful future that may not ever come to be. These two have their work cut out for them. Not only do they face outside sources of opposition, they each have their own worries of self-worthiness and denials to deal with.
You will love this story! It's filled with moments of laughter, intense scenes of fear, sparks of hope, and some very steamy bedroom antics. There's a rollercoaster of emotions to navigate through and experience. But this book will have you wanting to binge read it all to the end, while still craving a bit more. I can't wait until the next in the series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 28, 2025
Lots of Action, slow burn romance
Ginger is on Tern to visit her friend Geo and his husband Makir. While she is there, Geo and Makir leave to visit Makir's home planet, and Geo asks his friend and foreman, JayJay, to look out for Ginger while he is gone. There is attraction between them, but both seem a bit oblivious to what it means. Eventually they are forced to spend time together because of dangerous hellsna monster threats on Tern and unforeseen complications Ginger is facing. Their relationship develops into a special bond which is threatened when JayJay's past catches up to him.
I love the world building and side characters who are new to this book and many who make reappearances from the previous book. The story is fast paced with a lot of action happening while the romance and discovery of a new relationship between Ginger and JayJay takes longer to develop. The plot is really intricate, and I was impressed with how many things were happening in the story and how creative the world on Tern is described. This is a great book in the series. I definitely recommend reading the first book in the series, but this does stand alone as it's own story.
Ginger is on Tern to visit her friend Geo and his husband Makir. While she is there, Geo and Makir leave to visit Makir's home planet, and Geo asks his friend and foreman, JayJay, to look out for Ginger while he is gone. There is attraction between them, but both seem a bit oblivious to what it means. Eventually they are forced to spend time together because of dangerous hellsna monster threats on Tern and unforeseen complications Ginger is facing. Their relationship develops into a special bond which is threatened when JayJay's past catches up to him.
I love the world building and side characters who are new to this book and many who make reappearances from the previous book. The story is fast paced with a lot of action happening while the romance and discovery of a new relationship between Ginger and JayJay takes longer to develop. The plot is really intricate, and I was impressed with how many things were happening in the story and how creative the world on Tern is described. This is a great book in the series. I definitely recommend reading the first book in the series, but this does stand alone as it's own story.
June 24, 2025
I greatly enjoyed this wonderful story, JayJay and Ginger are amazing, funny and delicious together. Their individual stories are fascinating and they have a long hard journey filled with danger, misunderstandings, challenges and surprises. It will be worth all the pain and troubles for the heartwarming, amazing HEA. I can’t wait for the next book in this fascinating series 🥰
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 6, 2025
80% Beef 20% Cake
By Christine Redd
5⭐️
3🌶️
#ARCreview Ever since I met Jayjay in book one I couldn’t wait for him to have a HEA. He’s a sweet rockdweller and a male with dignity and honor. However due to his past, he feels that he is unworthy of love and companionship.
Ginger our beautiful human who is dealing with a rare disease finds herself in a crazy predicament where she needs the broody and loud rock dweller.
Chris, the characters you write are absolutely lovable. I had a great time yet again trapped in a volcano, trying to avoid getting eaten by a giant worm. While also being so turned on by Jayjay and his adorable fumbles. The scene where he runs out of the cave! Ha! I loved Ginger and her fiery attitude, even when she felt down she pushed herself.
I wish everyone would read this and feel all the giddiness feelings that this author creates with her words! More ppl need to read these!
#fatedmates #virginMC #scifiromance #swoonworthy #bookreviews
By Christine Redd
5⭐️
3🌶️
#ARCreview Ever since I met Jayjay in book one I couldn’t wait for him to have a HEA. He’s a sweet rockdweller and a male with dignity and honor. However due to his past, he feels that he is unworthy of love and companionship.
Ginger our beautiful human who is dealing with a rare disease finds herself in a crazy predicament where she needs the broody and loud rock dweller.
Chris, the characters you write are absolutely lovable. I had a great time yet again trapped in a volcano, trying to avoid getting eaten by a giant worm. While also being so turned on by Jayjay and his adorable fumbles. The scene where he runs out of the cave! Ha! I loved Ginger and her fiery attitude, even when she felt down she pushed herself.
I wish everyone would read this and feel all the giddiness feelings that this author creates with her words! More ppl need to read these!
#fatedmates #virginMC #scifiromance #swoonworthy #bookreviews
March 24, 2025
So much more than an alien fated mates romance.
80% Beef 20% Cake is much more than an unexpected romance between the petite stubborn human, Ginger and the huge, loud, and proud rock dweller, JayJay.
Looking out for Ginger whilst her best friend Geo is away, is a task that lands JayJay in more stressful situations than he could have imagined.
Keeping Ginger safe following an avalanche, and later while they are being stalked by a fearsome giant sand worm like predator, the Hellsna are tasks JayJay is wired for, but providing her with the medicine she needs to cure her rare blood disease is way outside his comfort one.
Just when everything seems to be falling into place, the corrupt Rock Dweller politician who’d framed JayJay and had him sent into exile arrives on Tern and plans to take Ginger for himself, sacrificing JayJay to the Hellsna in the process.
Another great read from Chris Redd, and highly recommended.
80% Beef 20% Cake is much more than an unexpected romance between the petite stubborn human, Ginger and the huge, loud, and proud rock dweller, JayJay.
Looking out for Ginger whilst her best friend Geo is away, is a task that lands JayJay in more stressful situations than he could have imagined.
Keeping Ginger safe following an avalanche, and later while they are being stalked by a fearsome giant sand worm like predator, the Hellsna are tasks JayJay is wired for, but providing her with the medicine she needs to cure her rare blood disease is way outside his comfort one.
Just when everything seems to be falling into place, the corrupt Rock Dweller politician who’d framed JayJay and had him sent into exile arrives on Tern and plans to take Ginger for himself, sacrificing JayJay to the Hellsna in the process.
Another great read from Chris Redd, and highly recommended.
February 27, 2025
I received an arc copy and read this without even reading the blurb. I also haven't read this author before. I jumped in, loving the quirky title and was pleasantly surprised by how well written the story was. A few different aliens/cultures to learn, which I love. Jay Jay and Ginger were hilarious and adorable. Jay Jay flipping from awkward and inexperienced to overbearing caveman understandably both charmed and irritated the hell out of Ginger. Definitely check it out, I'm off to read book 1 now and hoping for another (looking at you Sisip and Tuga!)
March 14, 2025
Beautiful description of an alien world that needs to be conolized again after a devastating pandemic. Lovely characters, good descriptions of the varying species.
I really wanted to try the foods and beverages described😉.
Our hero and heroine make quite the couple. Loved the misunderstandings due to language, tradition and culture. And then the ultimate challenge, she needs him for her survival, and that creates a whole new misunderstanding on its own.
Cannot wait for the next book about Tuga and Sisip.
I received and arc, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really wanted to try the foods and beverages described😉.
Our hero and heroine make quite the couple. Loved the misunderstandings due to language, tradition and culture. And then the ultimate challenge, she needs him for her survival, and that creates a whole new misunderstanding on its own.
Cannot wait for the next book about Tuga and Sisip.
I received and arc, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 30, 2025
4⭐
I'm so glad I got to dive into this world again. I'm also glad Geo & Makir made multiple appearances too - no offense to the beautiful Ginger & King Kong, but Geo and Makir are still my favorite.
I wasn't so much a fan of the "How/why" Ginger and JayJay's situationship started, however seeing/reading them falling for each other was beautiful - definitely balancing it out.
If you like:
*SciFi + Romance
*He Falls First
*Fated Mates
*Found Family
*Spice
This is for you.
Thank you Chris Redd & BookSirens for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
I'm so glad I got to dive into this world again. I'm also glad Geo & Makir made multiple appearances too - no offense to the beautiful Ginger & King Kong, but Geo and Makir are still my favorite.
I wasn't so much a fan of the "How/why" Ginger and JayJay's situationship started, however seeing/reading them falling for each other was beautiful - definitely balancing it out.
If you like:
*SciFi + Romance
*He Falls First
*Fated Mates
*Found Family
*Spice
This is for you.
Thank you Chris Redd & BookSirens for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 17, 2025
Amazing second edition to the series with the lovely squishi Rockman, Jay Jay and Ginger, the human. Yes I said squishy rockman but he’s all marshmallows!
Anyway great plot and characters with a fab little world. A good bad guy too!
This series is like my own personal catnip.
I definitely recommend this book to all who likes romance action and a dubious past. Oh I also forgot to mention a sassy fmc 🤣 win win
I received this arc for free, and I am loving this review voluntarily.
Anyway great plot and characters with a fab little world. A good bad guy too!
This series is like my own personal catnip.
I definitely recommend this book to all who likes romance action and a dubious past. Oh I also forgot to mention a sassy fmc 🤣 win win
I received this arc for free, and I am loving this review voluntarily.
March 13, 2025
A longer read for me but thoroughly enjoyed these two characters as they dealt with whatever came their way. Ginger has a rare disease and decides to get away from earth and the weight of her health. She ends up inside a volcano, chased by a giant worm and rescued by Jay Jay, an alien who is in exile. The two have to work together to achieve a future and along the way, deal with an enemy.
This was a nice break from the genre's I've been enjoying and a trip back into sci fi. :D
This was a nice break from the genre's I've been enjoying and a trip back into sci fi. :D
March 15, 2025
I do not take this lightly when I say that I love this author so much and this is only the second book I read by this author that if they wrote a menu I would read it. I was already excited to read jayjay and ginger story after I read Geo story. And this did not disappoint. And I absolutely love nebula. I hope that Tuga gets his own book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 3, 2025
This was a great sequel. Loved Jay-Jay and Ginger from book 1, and I was excited to read their story. Without a spoiler, their grounds to start being intimate was campy but fun. Jay-Jay backstory from book 1 was engaging, and he was a noble and sweet character. Ginger was sassy and dealing with heavy stuff, very easy to root for. Fun read!
March 26, 2025
I absolutely loved the first book and this one definitely lived up to the hype I was anticipating!! I loved the character dynamic between JayJay and Ginger a lot! The world that was built in book one just gets expanded further in book two!! Loved it! Can’t wait for more!!!
May 27, 2025
really good
I really enjoyed this. I loved book one and this was so good. Ginger and JayJay together were really great. I loved the banter Ginger brought to this book. I’m excited to see if we get another couple out of this series.
I really enjoyed this. I loved book one and this was so good. Ginger and JayJay together were really great. I loved the banter Ginger brought to this book. I’m excited to see if we get another couple out of this series.
February 22, 2025
Brilliant storytelling. I love the world the author had created, the detail and depth is compelling. Ginger and Jayjays story makes for superb reading. I didn't want to put it down.
Loved it!
Loved it!
March 16, 2025
Absolutely adored this book! Just as good as the previous one with great plot, lovable characters and decent badies!
March 25, 2025
Part of the Alien Fated Mates series. Ginger, a human is rescued by JayJay, an alien. Will they have a HEA as fated mates?
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