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The Sandaki #1
Mated
Laira Marshall had to admit—getting kidnapped wasn’t something she’d expected. Discovering her kidnappers were aliens who planned on selling her into sexual slavery, definitely tipped the scales into the truly bizarre. But she’s determined to fight her way through this—until their slave ship is attacked, and Laira’s faced with an entirely new problem. Rakin and Dev were the leaders of the Sandaki—a race genetically engineered to fight. Using their enhanced traits, they’ve freed their people and have devoted their lives to seeking out those who enslaved them. They never considered the concept of love—or that one woman could bring them to their knees. With unknown enemies working against them, the three lovers must come together not only to save themselves, but the Sandaki race itself.
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First published October 21, 2014
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469 people want to read
About the author
Gwendolyn Cease
13 books78 followersGwendolyn Cease has been writing ever since she was old enough to pick up a pen. From the very beginning, her stories involved handsome heroes, tough heroines, and happily ever after. Even as she slogged through her undergraduate and finally master's in education, writing remained a top priority. Though she now teaches elementary school, she still makes time for her characters and their never-ending adventures.
Currently, Gwendolyn lives in Kentucky with her three incredibly spoiled cats and one yellow Lab, who somehow thinks she's a cat. If you'd like to contact her she'd love to hear from you. She loves to hear from anyone who enjoys a good book, especially the ones she's written.
Currently, Gwendolyn lives in Kentucky with her three incredibly spoiled cats and one yellow Lab, who somehow thinks she's a cat. If you'd like to contact her she'd love to hear from you. She loves to hear from anyone who enjoys a good book, especially the ones she's written.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 15, 2014
This was a pretty okay MMF Alien Abduction Erotica (short) novel. I think I would have rated it higher if it had been a little longer including more length at the end about adjusting to alien life.
Quick Rundown: Chick finds herself not only abducted by aliens on their way to sell her in an illegal slave auction but physically "enhanced" in order to get a higher price. Meaning, bigger boobs, better hair, bigger eyes, taller, leaner, etc and basically unrecognizable to herself. After enduring weeks in containment with other abducted aliens from all kinds of races and planets, the ship is overtaken by some Alien Badasses. Polyamorous mating occurs in a dubious consent kinda way and Chick finds herself in the hands of two very important, bisexual alien lovers.
Characterization: This was pretty fair. There was a little more telling than showing/feeling here. And I was kinda disturbed with the body enhancements. It kinda skeeved me out that Alien Dudes were immediately attracted to her that they knew she was their mate upon first sight so I always felt like they fell in insta love with her looks and not who she was since she was completely unrecognizable even to herself. I couldn't believe that that wasn't an issue for her in this relationship. Secondary characters were done well enough but I wasn't expecting much from such a short book. The Big Bad was taken care of pretty quickly- again, short book length.
Plot: Nothing new here except for the body enhancements which I didn't enjoy. The alien culture was a little different but I've come across a couple of similar ones in other books of this genre. The sex scenes were MF, MM, and MMF and were pretty darn hot. Ending wasn't quite enough for me.
Overall: I enjoyed it fairly well and will read others if this is a series.
-Spuffed
Quick Rundown: Chick finds herself not only abducted by aliens on their way to sell her in an illegal slave auction but physically "enhanced" in order to get a higher price. Meaning, bigger boobs, better hair, bigger eyes, taller, leaner, etc and basically unrecognizable to herself. After enduring weeks in containment with other abducted aliens from all kinds of races and planets, the ship is overtaken by some Alien Badasses. Polyamorous mating occurs in a dubious consent kinda way and Chick finds herself in the hands of two very important, bisexual alien lovers.
Characterization: This was pretty fair. There was a little more telling than showing/feeling here. And I was kinda disturbed with the body enhancements. It kinda skeeved me out that Alien Dudes were immediately attracted to her that they knew she was their mate upon first sight so I always felt like they fell in insta love with her looks and not who she was since she was completely unrecognizable even to herself. I couldn't believe that that wasn't an issue for her in this relationship. Secondary characters were done well enough but I wasn't expecting much from such a short book. The Big Bad was taken care of pretty quickly- again, short book length.
Plot: Nothing new here except for the body enhancements which I didn't enjoy. The alien culture was a little different but I've come across a couple of similar ones in other books of this genre. The sex scenes were MF, MM, and MMF and were pretty darn hot. Ending wasn't quite enough for me.
Overall: I enjoyed it fairly well and will read others if this is a series.
-Spuffed
November 11, 2014
*I received a free copy to read & review for Wicked Reads Review Team*
This was a fun, steamy, quick read. It was different then many Sci-Fi romance/erotica that I've read - and for that I'm thankful!
Laira finds herself in an odd situation, she's notified that she has been abducted by alien slavers to be auctioned as a sex slave.
Not only that, but her body has also been physically altered to maximize her "potential". She quickly makes friends with the other "slaves", and I love that not once did she act like a victim.
The world building was OK, nothing super special but I did get a feel for her new "world". (I need to add, that I REALLY want a "cleansing" booth!)
Everything comes to a crazy "head" when the girls realized the slaver's ship is being attacked.
And we get to meet the Sandaki!! Now, these are some aliens that I could take a liking to. As Laira and her group of new friends are trying to escape danger of the fierce warrior race of Sandaki, they realize they're being chased.
Not only chased but hunted...
Laira is captured, and the story really starts :)
Rakin is the "leader" of the Sandaki, and has claimed Laira as his mate-which is a forever type of lover. As with any relationship, there are trials and tribulations. Not to mention, Rakin's co-leader and shield mate: Dev (that's all I can say about him).
Twists and turns abound: threats to the Sandaki are realized, love blossoms, and the erotic scenes are HOT!
Overall, I really liked the characters, I liked the writing, and I would love to read the next book in this series.
This was a fun, steamy, quick read. It was different then many Sci-Fi romance/erotica that I've read - and for that I'm thankful!
Laira finds herself in an odd situation, she's notified that she has been abducted by alien slavers to be auctioned as a sex slave.
Not only that, but her body has also been physically altered to maximize her "potential". She quickly makes friends with the other "slaves", and I love that not once did she act like a victim.
The world building was OK, nothing super special but I did get a feel for her new "world". (I need to add, that I REALLY want a "cleansing" booth!)
Everything comes to a crazy "head" when the girls realized the slaver's ship is being attacked.
And we get to meet the Sandaki!! Now, these are some aliens that I could take a liking to. As Laira and her group of new friends are trying to escape danger of the fierce warrior race of Sandaki, they realize they're being chased.
Not only chased but hunted...
Laira is captured, and the story really starts :)
Rakin is the "leader" of the Sandaki, and has claimed Laira as his mate-which is a forever type of lover. As with any relationship, there are trials and tribulations. Not to mention, Rakin's co-leader and shield mate: Dev (that's all I can say about him).
Twists and turns abound: threats to the Sandaki are realized, love blossoms, and the erotic scenes are HOT!
Overall, I really liked the characters, I liked the writing, and I would love to read the next book in this series.
October 27, 2014
I do have a soft spot for alien abduction. Even better.... Laira is abducted by slave trader aliens... but before being sold into sex slavery she (and the rest of the kidnapped "women") are "saved" by the Sandaki (known only to be savage killers). The immediate connection between Rakin and Laira was really well written. I loved the chase and capture scene. I loved that Laira and Rakin were both such strong and demanding characters... but neither could control the urge to be together. And then when Dev entered the picture? Let's just leave it at "WOW".
The cover doesn't depict Rakin and Dev anything like I would imagine them. They're described as being large and somewhat cat-like. I wish the cover was more true.
I have to say... the story reminded me of Hers to Command (Patricia A. Knight). In that story Ari was the leader. He was to marry Fleur. But.... they needed Doral (Ari's 2nd) to complete their triad. It was story somewhat of magic between the 3 saving their world. Not the same story as Mated.... but still.... the 2 men were together ruling, but weren't complete until they formed their full bond with Fleur.
The cover doesn't depict Rakin and Dev anything like I would imagine them. They're described as being large and somewhat cat-like. I wish the cover was more true.
I have to say... the story reminded me of Hers to Command (Patricia A. Knight). In that story Ari was the leader. He was to marry Fleur. But.... they needed Doral (Ari's 2nd) to complete their triad. It was story somewhat of magic between the 3 saving their world. Not the same story as Mated.... but still.... the 2 men were together ruling, but weren't complete until they formed their full bond with Fleur.
October 24, 2014
As I started reading this book, all I could think of was Choosing Riley by S.E. Smith from the Captured Box Set. There were a lot of similarities and it bothered me. At first. The lion-like aliens, the most feared alien race.. But, As we get farther into the book.. The more I read, the better it was. The story started to go it's own way, instead of being so similar.
The character of Laira was fun and sassy. I liked her. I thought it was great how Laira stuck up for the other woman. Trust me, I was giggling when they danced! The sex was hot, mmm, I really enjoyed the first "chase" and um, yea... holy hot. When you meet Dev, things get much much more interesting! Just trust me on this, you'll have to read to find out.
If you're into aliens who are rough, sexy and possessive, you're going to want to read this. It was a pretty good read all in all.
The character of Laira was fun and sassy. I liked her. I thought it was great how Laira stuck up for the other woman. Trust me, I was giggling when they danced! The sex was hot, mmm, I really enjoyed the first "chase" and um, yea... holy hot. When you meet Dev, things get much much more interesting! Just trust me on this, you'll have to read to find out.
If you're into aliens who are rough, sexy and possessive, you're going to want to read this. It was a pretty good read all in all.
January 14, 2016
I really liked this 'kidnapped-by-space aliens' story. Good writing, sex scenes aren't too numerous or overly lengthy. Quite a good story. Some typos, but I'm not going to deduct a star for that (this time). I was in a down mood and was looking for something light and humorous... this fit the bill.
I will buy the next book in this series if there is one.
I will buy the next book in this series if there is one.
November 19, 2014
I loved it!
When I saw the title my first thought was yes a shifter romance.
But reading the blurb it was a science fiction romance and I love that too.
I loved Laira character she had spunk. Also loves both Hero’s Rakin & Dev.
And together they where HOT!
I am so glad that there will be 2 more books I hardly can wait to read them!!
When I saw the title my first thought was yes a shifter romance.
But reading the blurb it was a science fiction romance and I love that too.
I loved Laira character she had spunk. Also loves both Hero’s Rakin & Dev.
And together they where HOT!
I am so glad that there will be 2 more books I hardly can wait to read them!!
September 28, 2017
The story itself was overall okey. Nothing special plot wise, but execution wasn't bad.
However, there were some points that did not work for me.
First of all, it was never really explained how the Silarins look, except saying that they seemed "vaguely bored" once, and that's not nearly enough for me to create an image in my mind. It may not seem all important in the great scheme of things, but that was our MC's first ever contact with aliens, so I would have liked to now what they looked like.
Secondly, I was unable to properly connect with the characters, which left me kind of detached from the story. For the most part, I did not believe anything they (and by they I mostly mean the girl. Jeez, I just finished the book and already I can't remember her name. I'm hopeless) were feeling. Because, really, she was just stolen by aliens, changed on a cellular level and was told that that she would soon be sold as a sex slave, but our MC (seriously, why can't I ever remember anyone's name?) was as cool as a cucumber. She was all fierce and determined and pissed and even occasionally cheerful, but never once did she react as scared. I don't buy it.
Although, I guess it's still better than the reaction of other fellow slaves.
“Are you still walking this path of destruction? Laira, you cannot attack them. We are property to be bought and sold without a thought.”
Riiight, no thanks.
So, all in all, the story itself - okey, the emotional aspect - shitty.
September 10, 2017
Just finished reading this book and I LOVED IT!
I wish I knew what Laira looked like before her change, there wasn't much description to what she looked like before. At first I didn't like the idea of her changing completely but after thinking about it, and realizing no other alien book I've read had done that I started to like it. I love my alien books and because I've read so many there are so many similarities between all of them so I love when a book does something new and different. I LOVE LOVE LOVED that Dev and Rakin were also lovers. Usually in books where there are three lovers, the males aren't lovers themselves. At first I was confused though, maybe it was just me not paying close attention but I had thought the two were brothers so when I saw that there was feelings there I was taken aback for a second!
After I finished this book I was so looking forward to a second book. ESPECIALLY since I saw this book came out in 2014. In my mind I was like "dang there must be at least 3 or so books in this series and since it came out 3 years ago they're all going to be finished Im so excited to binge read!!!" WELL when I clicked on the series there was only this book! ): WHY WHY WHY I wanted to read more and really get to know all the characters and the Sandaki. There definetly should be another book or 5 in the series. I read this all in one sitting I loved it so much.
I wish I knew what Laira looked like before her change, there wasn't much description to what she looked like before. At first I didn't like the idea of her changing completely but after thinking about it, and realizing no other alien book I've read had done that I started to like it. I love my alien books and because I've read so many there are so many similarities between all of them so I love when a book does something new and different. I LOVE LOVE LOVED that Dev and Rakin were also lovers. Usually in books where there are three lovers, the males aren't lovers themselves. At first I was confused though, maybe it was just me not paying close attention but I had thought the two were brothers so when I saw that there was feelings there I was taken aback for a second!
After I finished this book I was so looking forward to a second book. ESPECIALLY since I saw this book came out in 2014. In my mind I was like "dang there must be at least 3 or so books in this series and since it came out 3 years ago they're all going to be finished Im so excited to binge read!!!" WELL when I clicked on the series there was only this book! ): WHY WHY WHY I wanted to read more and really get to know all the characters and the Sandaki. There definetly should be another book or 5 in the series. I read this all in one sitting I loved it so much.
June 17, 2020
Very short. I like the main female and was hopeful this was book one where we build a world and lay a foundation but there do not appear to be any more. So with that in mind I rated 3 stars for leaving frustrating loose ends, and not enough depth to the characters. I wanted to know what happens with the story devolving with the Priestess and Kavich, that could have been something more. Zarick and the leads friends all could have had something to pique my interest. Could be something if the author comes back to it but as she published this 6 years ago and didn’t touch it since I don’t anticipate it will happen now.
June 2, 2018
Very Hot. World-building was not prefect but author definitely put some thought into it.
Warning M/M action, which is NOT my thing but it was tolerable for the story.
I wish there was a second book in the series. If there is, I am not finding it. When I looked for it, I discovered that this author seems to focus on M/M romance, so very likely the only book of hers I will read.
Warning M/M action, which is NOT my thing but it was tolerable for the story.
I wish there was a second book in the series. If there is, I am not finding it. When I looked for it, I discovered that this author seems to focus on M/M romance, so very likely the only book of hers I will read.
March 18, 2021
Did not finish
not-interested
September 28, 2016MMF
November 18, 2014
"I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads."
Really fun read, with some interesting messages too. This starts with an alien abduction, but very soon the writer has made the current state normality and it is easy to fall into the new world and get completely absorbed in the story. The mating rituals are reassuringly familiar and the addition of a triad relationship makes it extra hot. I look forward to seeing what happens next. In the meantime the waterless shower is definitely on my Christmas list!
Really fun read, with some interesting messages too. This starts with an alien abduction, but very soon the writer has made the current state normality and it is easy to fall into the new world and get completely absorbed in the story. The mating rituals are reassuringly familiar and the addition of a triad relationship makes it extra hot. I look forward to seeing what happens next. In the meantime the waterless shower is definitely on my Christmas list!
December 8, 2015
From the blurb, I did not expect to get shifter-esque heroes. Still, it was relatively well executed, so I enjoyed it regardless after I adapted. The thing that largely ruined this book was the heroine's tone of voice. I'm sorry, but "peeps"? I guess I should be happy she didn't start listening to Justin Bieber (and thank god my phone doesn't even know his name lol). The way she talked and "explained" things was just downright lazy. Run on sentences, cop outs like "and shit", it was honestly painful to read.
I was happy with the angst, enjoyed Dev's need for a mate due to his beast being closer to the surface and all that, but would have loved to see more. And more world building... they never even made it to the planet for god's sake!
I was happy with the angst, enjoyed Dev's need for a mate due to his beast being closer to the surface and all that, but would have loved to see more. And more world building... they never even made it to the planet for god's sake!
October 27, 2014
Mated(The Sandaki book 1) by Gwendolyn Cease
An awesome absorbing well developed storyline with a sassy,strong female character and deliciously alpha alien mates. Everything is engaging,enjoyable,entertaining and has a hot,sizzling scenes that captures your attention to keep reading to see what happens next. The supporting characters help intrigue your imagination to maybe get their own story development for expansion of the series. I definitely want more additional entries to this storyline. Great writing!!
An awesome absorbing well developed storyline with a sassy,strong female character and deliciously alpha alien mates. Everything is engaging,enjoyable,entertaining and has a hot,sizzling scenes that captures your attention to keep reading to see what happens next. The supporting characters help intrigue your imagination to maybe get their own story development for expansion of the series. I definitely want more additional entries to this storyline. Great writing!!
November 18, 2014
This was a pretty fast paced book. With lots of humor and some action.
I really liked Laila. Even with everything that happened to her she never acted like a victim. She stayed strong and never stopped fighting. I liked that she helped the other women realize that they weren't slaves and could fight back too.
Rakin and Dev were awesome. Very alpha male and hot! I loved the chemistry between them all.
Overall it was a good read. Some moments were a little over the top but it was still an interesting book.
I really liked Laila. Even with everything that happened to her she never acted like a victim. She stayed strong and never stopped fighting. I liked that she helped the other women realize that they weren't slaves and could fight back too.
Rakin and Dev were awesome. Very alpha male and hot! I loved the chemistry between them all.
Overall it was a good read. Some moments were a little over the top but it was still an interesting book.
September 8, 2015
Above average
Not a bad story, but I think I've enjoyed other books by this author more. I'd give it a solid three and a half stars. There is one thing I don't understand though. Why do women in these sort of stories tend to talk to whatever aliens so informally, like "hey, dude" or any sort of expletive-laced sentence one could come up with? I guess the humor in that has worn away for me.
Not a bad story, but I think I've enjoyed other books by this author more. I'd give it a solid three and a half stars. There is one thing I don't understand though. Why do women in these sort of stories tend to talk to whatever aliens so informally, like "hey, dude" or any sort of expletive-laced sentence one could come up with? I guess the humor in that has worn away for me.
November 5, 2014
I have a review of this posted somewhere but I can't find the blog post: In short, it's a fantastic read, I got a copy of the uncorrected proof, and seriously, it's fantastic, the author is a fantastic writer, the story was engaging; fairly fast paced and I was hooked in from the very beginning. I would recommend this to anyone who likes M/M/F or paranormals.
March 1, 2015
Oh my! Quite the erotic voyage into outerspace and into a world full of testosterone, sex, and everything goes. It was actually much more appetizing than anticipated. A hot romance triangle that takes place amidst the stars and with a race of warrior-aliens that will knock your socks off! (And maybe a little bit more!)
June 28, 2015
Different space romance
I enjoy a good space abduction romance. This was different than any I have read before and that is what made this story so good. I liked the different take on the mating as well. I would have liked an epilogue but am hoping for more stories with these characters. Well worth reading.
I enjoy a good space abduction romance. This was different than any I have read before and that is what made this story so good. I liked the different take on the mating as well. I would have liked an epilogue but am hoping for more stories with these characters. Well worth reading.
November 3, 2014
Wow! Pleasantly surprised. Enjoyable alien book. Storyline was entertaining and definitely hot. Could not put down. Loved the interaction and chemistry between Laira, Dev and Rakin. First book for me by this author. Would recommend.
January 6, 2015
Interesting
Enjoyed but if you aren't a sci-fi person you may not. I ready enjoyed the interactions between the girls and our heroine's strong and kick ass attitude. Humorous at times.
Be warned there are male/male themes in this book also.
Enjoy the ride
Enjoyed but if you aren't a sci-fi person you may not. I ready enjoyed the interactions between the girls and our heroine's strong and kick ass attitude. Humorous at times.
Be warned there are male/male themes in this book also.
Enjoy the ride
March 31, 2016
Overall I did enjoy this book. I would have liked more world building and more one on one with the heros. I hope there will be a sequel as I wanted more. I also would like to see more of their day to day and how they grow as a unit.
November 24, 2023
This book is HAWT !
Surprisingly it was very well executed and the author put some thought to the world building, the technology was really interesting to learn about even though I'm not really a fan of sci-fi.
Surprisingly it was very well executed and the author put some thought to the world building, the technology was really interesting to learn about even though I'm not really a fan of sci-fi.
November 6, 2014
This was a great story, well written and I'll be looking for other books from this author.
January 2, 2015
I enjoyed the storyline but felt it could have been a little longer or fleshed out a little more. Im giving it a 3.5 overall.
May 15, 2015
It was an OK read. It would be worth 3 stars if all the story lines were concluded.
June 8, 2015
A great read
I would love to see more from her. Especially from this series. I enjoyed every page. She makes her character s
I would love to see more from her. Especially from this series. I enjoyed every page. She makes her character s
June 13, 2015
Hands down one of my favorite books ever!
The book is addicting I cannot wait for the next one! I absolutely love the Sandaki world created here. Gimme Gimme
The book is addicting I cannot wait for the next one! I absolutely love the Sandaki world created here. Gimme Gimme
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews