What do you think?
Rate this book
Of Blood and Conquest #1
Scars & Starlight
Tara’s life is a battle for survival in the ashes of a fallen world. When her camp is overrun by alien invaders, she braces for the end – until a mysterious new species descends from the sky and obliterates the threat in moments, rewriting the rules of war.
The Avaren are terrifyingly advanced and devastating in battle. At their head stands Kairen, a celestial enigma: beautiful, unreadable, and far too gentle for someone who commands an army.
With a galaxy of secrets between them, Kairen hides the truth: Tara is his genetic match – the one partner fate has carved out just for him. But before he tells her, he plans to earn her trust... and maybe her heart.
As they join forces to reach Earth’s scattered leaders and push back the Ghorvek threat, sparks fly. Because surviving the end of the world? That was just the beginning.
The Avaren are terrifyingly advanced and devastating in battle. At their head stands Kairen, a celestial enigma: beautiful, unreadable, and far too gentle for someone who commands an army.
With a galaxy of secrets between them, Kairen hides the truth: Tara is his genetic match – the one partner fate has carved out just for him. But before he tells her, he plans to earn her trust... and maybe her heart.
As they join forces to reach Earth’s scattered leaders and push back the Ghorvek threat, sparks fly. Because surviving the end of the world? That was just the beginning.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2025
7 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Liana Valerian
17 books298 followersLiana Valerian is a passionate gamer, obsessed bookworm, enthusiastic sci-fi and fantasy nerd, and self-proclaimed crazy cat lady. She crafts dark fantasy romance novels filled with humor, spice, and mythology, blending gothic and romantic elements in shadowy realms where darkness reigns.
Liana's debut novel, The River of Fire, the first in The Rivers of Hell series, is a steamy romance set in the Underworld, where angels, demons, and forbidden love collide. Now, Liana is branching out into sci-fi, taking readers on thrilling, otherworldly adventures filled with romance, intrigue, and the unknown.
You can follow her adventures and connect with her on social media @liana.valerian.
Liana's debut novel, The River of Fire, the first in The Rivers of Hell series, is a steamy romance set in the Underworld, where angels, demons, and forbidden love collide. Now, Liana is branching out into sci-fi, taking readers on thrilling, otherworldly adventures filled with romance, intrigue, and the unknown.
You can follow her adventures and connect with her on social media @liana.valerian.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
November 28, 2025
"As I’m shaking with aftershocks, I find myself convinced that these aliens were sent down to rock our world after all." (Ch 21)
Sweet & Spicy Alien Romance | Science-Fiction
"“There must be something about matches,” I muse. “A scent or something. I was drawn to her from the very beginning, more than I ever was to any female.”" (Ch 8)
This was a good read. This different genre hits differently from Liana's other works. It's definitely on the instalove/instalust side. Cozy, not necessarily cuddly or swoony, but still sweet. Tara, despite her early fierceness, seems to go along with fate quite easily with little reservations. Kairen was practically on board with it from the get-go and is rather protective of and concerned for her. It is a slow burn at first.
Still holds a bit of steam and spice!
"Idon’t think falling onto a female penis-first, like a Nekkar in heat, is the way to befriend her." (Ch 8)
eARC voluntary review
Sweet & Spicy Alien Romance | Science-Fiction
"“There must be something about matches,” I muse. “A scent or something. I was drawn to her from the very beginning, more than I ever was to any female.”" (Ch 8)
This was a good read. This different genre hits differently from Liana's other works. It's definitely on the instalove/instalust side. Cozy, not necessarily cuddly or swoony, but still sweet. Tara, despite her early fierceness, seems to go along with fate quite easily with little reservations. Kairen was practically on board with it from the get-go and is rather protective of and concerned for her. It is a slow burn at first.
Still holds a bit of steam and spice!
"Idon’t think falling onto a female penis-first, like a Nekkar in heat, is the way to befriend her." (Ch 8)
eARC voluntary review
August 25, 2025
Enjoy ;)
September 19, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up!
This is an endearing story about finding love and happiness amidst the literal ending of the world. I found the story enjoyable and will definitely be continuing the series. Here’s my breakdown as a regular degular reader with virtually no writing experience or fancy literary degree.
Plot? It exists and was easy to follow. From the jump, I had a clear idea of who’s who and what’s what. The exposition was informative and concise. I liked the introduction of the new world and all its elements. I would very much like to know what a Nekkar looks like!
The FMC, Tara was very likable. Her inner monologue and mannerisms are not so different from my own, so of course I found her relatable, even though I’d be a giant next to her and we share no physical similarities. Ha!
The MMC, Kairen had some depth. He’s what social media would call a “cinnamon roll” and I eventually find out why cinnamon is in the “spice” cabinet. Whew!
The side characters were also well done. I like the dynamic of the families on both sides. I found it refreshing.
The Ghorvek seemed to be highly intelligent but also senseless which didn’t exactly math out for me. Korvann was a good example of no matter how perfect a society, there’s still some maniacal jackass who sees it as imperfect. I didn’t see what his driving force was, outside of revenge and misogyny. Maybe that’s all he needs. It’s all any man seems to need these days, but I digress.
In the vein of not being a Chatty Cathy, I’ll finish with this;
This was overall a good read. Very light read, and I think it’s perfect as a soft introduction for anyone new to the romantic/scifi genre.
Enjoy!
This is an endearing story about finding love and happiness amidst the literal ending of the world. I found the story enjoyable and will definitely be continuing the series. Here’s my breakdown as a regular degular reader with virtually no writing experience or fancy literary degree.
Plot? It exists and was easy to follow. From the jump, I had a clear idea of who’s who and what’s what. The exposition was informative and concise. I liked the introduction of the new world and all its elements. I would very much like to know what a Nekkar looks like!
The FMC, Tara was very likable. Her inner monologue and mannerisms are not so different from my own, so of course I found her relatable, even though I’d be a giant next to her and we share no physical similarities. Ha!
The MMC, Kairen had some depth. He’s what social media would call a “cinnamon roll” and I eventually find out why cinnamon is in the “spice” cabinet. Whew!
The side characters were also well done. I like the dynamic of the families on both sides. I found it refreshing.
The Ghorvek seemed to be highly intelligent but also senseless which didn’t exactly math out for me. Korvann was a good example of no matter how perfect a society, there’s still some maniacal jackass who sees it as imperfect. I didn’t see what his driving force was, outside of revenge and misogyny. Maybe that’s all he needs. It’s all any man seems to need these days, but I digress.
In the vein of not being a Chatty Cathy, I’ll finish with this;
This was overall a good read. Very light read, and I think it’s perfect as a soft introduction for anyone new to the romantic/scifi genre.
Enjoy!
June 27, 2025
This is absolutely amazing!!
Review coming soon!
Review coming soon!
September 19, 2025
"𝘓𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵," 𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘴. "𝘐 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘦."
ARC Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars!!
Book: Scars & Starlight by Liana Valerian
One of my most anticipated releases, and I was able to read it in advance!! I always love Liana her stories, and I'm not surprised that she wrote another amazing one I get to obsess over
"𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴, 𝘯𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺'𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦."
Kairen is such a sweet character! I loved his caring nature and filthy mouth. I adored the FMC Tara as well. Loved her feisty side. Can't forget the adorable side kick, Kiko. I need a robot friend like him! And as always, there was funny banter and a lot of relatable inner dialog. That's what I absolutely love about her writing style!
"𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘰𝘯𝘦, 𝘭𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦."
I want to thank the author for once again trusting me with your book to read and review 🖤 you keep on impressing me with your work!
"𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘰𝘯, 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦."
Releases: September 26th
Tropes & Vibes:
🩵Forced Proximity
🩵Post Apocalyptic
🩵Alien Romance
🩵Fated Mates (but it's science)
🩵Touch Her and 💀
🩵Mid-Thirties FMC
🩵Sci-Fi / Dystopian
🩵Green Flag MMC (with a dirty mouth)
ARC Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars!!
Book: Scars & Starlight by Liana Valerian
One of my most anticipated releases, and I was able to read it in advance!! I always love Liana her stories, and I'm not surprised that she wrote another amazing one I get to obsess over
"𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴, 𝘯𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺'𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦."
Kairen is such a sweet character! I loved his caring nature and filthy mouth. I adored the FMC Tara as well. Loved her feisty side. Can't forget the adorable side kick, Kiko. I need a robot friend like him! And as always, there was funny banter and a lot of relatable inner dialog. That's what I absolutely love about her writing style!
"𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘰𝘯𝘦, 𝘭𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦."
I want to thank the author for once again trusting me with your book to read and review 🖤 you keep on impressing me with your work!
"𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘰𝘯, 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦."
Releases: September 26th
Tropes & Vibes:
🩵Forced Proximity
🩵Post Apocalyptic
🩵Alien Romance
🩵Fated Mates (but it's science)
🩵Touch Her and 💀
🩵Mid-Thirties FMC
🩵Sci-Fi / Dystopian
🩵Green Flag MMC (with a dirty mouth)
September 28, 2025
This was my first ever alien romance, and I absolutely loved it! 🩵
Liana Valerian is one of my favorite authors and I will probably read anything she writes. I love her writing style, how she mixes action, emotion and funny banter perfectly together.
"I connect with the nanites I shared with her, envious that they're one with her and I'm not. Yet."
Mmmhh yes, we love a jealous & yearning male. 🫠
Kairen was such an adorable MMC. A green flag with a dirty mouth. He was so sweet and caring but also possessive and a little cocky.
"I'm locked in her orbit, and I don't care to ever escape."
Tara was a really funny and relatable FMC. I loved her awkwardness and how she wasn't able to shut her mouth.
"She stops breathing the moment I bottom out, and I take her mouth with mine and give her the breath from my lungs. If she wanted them, I would tear out my hearts and gift them to her as well."
I can't wait for the next book in the series!
A big thank you to Liana Valerian for the e-ARC to read and review. 🩵
Tropes:
🩵 Fated Mates but make it science
🩵 Touch her and 💀
🩵 Forced Proximity
🩵 Alien Love Interest
🩵 Post Apocalyptic
🩵 Sweet & Steamy
Liana Valerian is one of my favorite authors and I will probably read anything she writes. I love her writing style, how she mixes action, emotion and funny banter perfectly together.
"I connect with the nanites I shared with her, envious that they're one with her and I'm not. Yet."
Mmmhh yes, we love a jealous & yearning male. 🫠
Kairen was such an adorable MMC. A green flag with a dirty mouth. He was so sweet and caring but also possessive and a little cocky.
"I'm locked in her orbit, and I don't care to ever escape."
Tara was a really funny and relatable FMC. I loved her awkwardness and how she wasn't able to shut her mouth.
"She stops breathing the moment I bottom out, and I take her mouth with mine and give her the breath from my lungs. If she wanted them, I would tear out my hearts and gift them to her as well."
I can't wait for the next book in the series!
A big thank you to Liana Valerian for the e-ARC to read and review. 🩵
Tropes:
🩵 Fated Mates but make it science
🩵 Touch her and 💀
🩵 Forced Proximity
🩵 Alien Love Interest
🩵 Post Apocalyptic
🩵 Sweet & Steamy
September 18, 2025
If Liana writes it I read it! Honestly I don't even need to know what it's about cause I already know for a fact that I'll love it and this book was no exception!
Sci-fi isn't my go to genre and I typically don't read it a lot but this one sucked me right in with it's immersive world building and spot on humor. And of course leave it up to Liana to make me swoon over a hunky alien green flag.
Kairen could beam me up to his spaceship anytime especially if I get a Kiko of my own cause R2D2 has nothing on him! And honestly Tara wanting to open up and disect everything was the most relatable thing ever as was her little dance for food 😂
Sci-fi isn't my go to genre and I typically don't read it a lot but this one sucked me right in with it's immersive world building and spot on humor. And of course leave it up to Liana to make me swoon over a hunky alien green flag.
Kairen could beam me up to his spaceship anytime especially if I get a Kiko of my own cause R2D2 has nothing on him! And honestly Tara wanting to open up and disect everything was the most relatable thing ever as was her little dance for food 😂
October 13, 2025
While this was different from the usual reads by Liana, it was just as good!
The plot was amazing making the book a real page turner. The FMC and MMC were immediately liable to me. They each had such a distinctive, lovable personalities. I also love how Liana involves the side characters in stories. I never felt like I was confused on who was who. The spice was amazing, I wouldn't expect less with anything written by Valerian. I am excited to continue the rest of this series and that I branched out of usual romances!
The plot was amazing making the book a real page turner. The FMC and MMC were immediately liable to me. They each had such a distinctive, lovable personalities. I also love how Liana involves the side characters in stories. I never felt like I was confused on who was who. The spice was amazing, I wouldn't expect less with anything written by Valerian. I am excited to continue the rest of this series and that I branched out of usual romances!
September 27, 2025
Sign me up for more alien romances! I liked this 🤭
Definitely need more from this world and plus the artwork, amazing!
Definitely need a best friend like kiko
- alien romance
- fated mates (science purposes 🤭)
- touch her and 💀
- found family
Definitely need more from this world and plus the artwork, amazing!
Definitely need a best friend like kiko
- alien romance
- fated mates (science purposes 🤭)
- touch her and 💀
- found family
October 17, 2025
This was such an cute (funny enough because it’s literally the end of the world) and fun read . A great mix of alien romance, fated mates, and end-of-the-world stakes, all wrapped in some heartfelt and great character development moments. It’s engaging, and definitely left me wanting more from this world.
October 8, 2025
It was my honor to ARC this lovely 5🌟 read by Liana Valerian. Scars and Starlight is a cozy sci fi dystopian romance with enough action to keep on your toes. It is high stakes with low angst (which I love)and spicy spice. I truly enjoyed and finished the book in 2 sittings. There are some predictable parts while others surprised me. The latter makes it more unique in its genre. This book is great for readers who love cozy stories and for readers who love more high stakes angst type books this a great pallet cleanser. Do keep in mind this book is part of an unfinished series and is intended voor mature readers. Please check out TW before reading because your mental health matters. That being said please enjoy this lovely, spicy, cozy rollercoaster of a book.
August 21, 2025
𝓢𝓬𝓪𝓻𝓼 & 𝓢𝓽𝓪𝓻𝓵𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽 𝓑𝓮𝓽𝓪 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀
I am just speechless after reading this book. Actually I lied, I have a lot to say. First of all, Liana here just wrote my DREAM man. He is just utterly perfect, at least for me. 🥹🩷 I so wish I could be Tara instead and be swept away with Kairen. 😭 Honestly he embodies so many characteristics that I admire. Just who he is at this very core, spoke volumes and pulled at my heartstrings.
I could go on and on, how much I love him. I think before Chapter 5 I was already a goner for him. That is how much I got obsessed with him.
I enjoyed the storytelling, plot, characters and even small things such as (even though they aren’t small in the literature world) the choice of words. So expressive and painted me a clear picture of this sci-fi world.
This book made me swoon, laugh, gasp, fall in love and rage all within the pages. Honorable mention to the side characters, they were so entertaining and their personalities just shone through all the interactions with the main characters. I have a feeling their stories are yet to be told, and can’t wait to find out more about them. 👀 Especially some of Kairen’s closest men, who are btw charming as hell. But no one beats Kairen in my books!
I have to mention, that I loved Kairen’s family. Especially the mum, she is hilarious and such a character too! How she accepted Tara with open arms was so sweet. Honestly, I admire Tara and could relate to her awkward over explaining personality. Felt so relatable to me. 🙈 Oh, and Kiko, an adorable sidekick you didn’t know you needed! Such a cutie robo. 🥹
Also, umm the breeding kink. I am all for it! 👀 This man has a dirty mouth and he is hawt as hell. ❤️🔥 Honestly, I was just a puddle duration of the book. He is just something else entirely. An embodiment of a green flag. 😭💞
The only thing I would complain is that the main character’s name should have been Adelina and not Tara because Kairen is meant to be mine bahahha. And secondly, I need MORE of this book. Pretty please with a cherry on top? 🥺😇🍒
Thank you Liana for entrusting me to Beta read this book. Easy to say I absolutely loved it. You wrote my favorite male now. (I ofc still love other book boyfriends, but he is my favorite out of the ones you wrote so far.) 🩷
I am just speechless after reading this book. Actually I lied, I have a lot to say. First of all, Liana here just wrote my DREAM man. He is just utterly perfect, at least for me. 🥹🩷 I so wish I could be Tara instead and be swept away with Kairen. 😭 Honestly he embodies so many characteristics that I admire. Just who he is at this very core, spoke volumes and pulled at my heartstrings.
I could go on and on, how much I love him. I think before Chapter 5 I was already a goner for him. That is how much I got obsessed with him.
I enjoyed the storytelling, plot, characters and even small things such as (even though they aren’t small in the literature world) the choice of words. So expressive and painted me a clear picture of this sci-fi world.
This book made me swoon, laugh, gasp, fall in love and rage all within the pages. Honorable mention to the side characters, they were so entertaining and their personalities just shone through all the interactions with the main characters. I have a feeling their stories are yet to be told, and can’t wait to find out more about them. 👀 Especially some of Kairen’s closest men, who are btw charming as hell. But no one beats Kairen in my books!
I have to mention, that I loved Kairen’s family. Especially the mum, she is hilarious and such a character too! How she accepted Tara with open arms was so sweet. Honestly, I admire Tara and could relate to her awkward over explaining personality. Felt so relatable to me. 🙈 Oh, and Kiko, an adorable sidekick you didn’t know you needed! Such a cutie robo. 🥹
Also, umm the breeding kink. I am all for it! 👀 This man has a dirty mouth and he is hawt as hell. ❤️🔥 Honestly, I was just a puddle duration of the book. He is just something else entirely. An embodiment of a green flag. 😭💞
The only thing I would complain is that the main character’s name should have been Adelina and not Tara because Kairen is meant to be mine bahahha. And secondly, I need MORE of this book. Pretty please with a cherry on top? 🥺😇🍒
Thank you Liana for entrusting me to Beta read this book. Easy to say I absolutely loved it. You wrote my favorite male now. (I ofc still love other book boyfriends, but he is my favorite out of the ones you wrote so far.) 🩷
August 24, 2025
General: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🫦🫦🫦🫦
✨✨✨ Scars & Starlight by Liana Valerian (@liana.valerian), is her first novel in her new Sci-fi series Of Blood and Conquest. ✨✨✨
Release: September 26th
Tropes:
🚀 Alien Romance
🪐 Touch her and ☠️
🚀 All the feels
🪐 Fated Mates (but it’s science)
🚀 Forced proximity
🪐 Age gap
🚀 Dystopian Earth
🪐 Space Exploration
Unbelievable! Liana isn’t just slaying gothic romance and PNR—she’s now launching us into orbit with a space saga that’s out of this world 🌌.
The story picks up a few years after the alien invasion featured in Dusk & Desire. Enter Tara: a strong-willed engineer fighting alongside a fierce group of rebels as they battle the brutal Ghorvek forces for survival. During one of their skirmishes, an unexpected alien ship lands and joins the fray. Cue Kairen—the crown prince, white-knight hottie, and intergalactic dreamboat. When he persuades Tara to become Earth’s ambassador, their journey takes off—not just across continents, but through galaxies far beyond.
Once again, Liana delivers with razor-sharp wit and sizzling character banter. And let me tell you—I’m officially obsessed with her newest sidekick, K1K0. This robo-chick is so adorably badass, I need one in my life. Immediately.
But wait—there’s more. The plot? Gripping. The spice? Off the charts. And when that spice evolves into a full-blown breeding kink... whew. Let’s just say I did not expect our prim and proper commander to have such a filthy mouth. And I loved every second of it.
So buckle up, space cowboys. You’re about to be beamed straight into a galaxy of heat, heart, and high-stakes adventure. 🚀
Quotes:
Damn this ma… malien. He has no business being tempting.
“No, love,” he murmurs, his hands going to his pants. “You’re the beautiful one, lying here ravished and pleasured, but ravenous for more.”
⁉️QOTD: Would you trust an alien prince with your heart—or your planet? 👽💫
#indieauthor #booklover #bookgirl #books #reader #spicybooks #booksta #bookrecs #bookstagramer #bookboyfriends #steamyromance #spicyromance #touchheranddie #alienromance #scifi #forcedproximity #review #currentlyreading #kindleunlimited #theshadyivy
Spice: 🫦🫦🫦🫦
✨✨✨ Scars & Starlight by Liana Valerian (@liana.valerian), is her first novel in her new Sci-fi series Of Blood and Conquest. ✨✨✨
Release: September 26th
Tropes:
🚀 Alien Romance
🪐 Touch her and ☠️
🚀 All the feels
🪐 Fated Mates (but it’s science)
🚀 Forced proximity
🪐 Age gap
🚀 Dystopian Earth
🪐 Space Exploration
Unbelievable! Liana isn’t just slaying gothic romance and PNR—she’s now launching us into orbit with a space saga that’s out of this world 🌌.
The story picks up a few years after the alien invasion featured in Dusk & Desire. Enter Tara: a strong-willed engineer fighting alongside a fierce group of rebels as they battle the brutal Ghorvek forces for survival. During one of their skirmishes, an unexpected alien ship lands and joins the fray. Cue Kairen—the crown prince, white-knight hottie, and intergalactic dreamboat. When he persuades Tara to become Earth’s ambassador, their journey takes off—not just across continents, but through galaxies far beyond.
Once again, Liana delivers with razor-sharp wit and sizzling character banter. And let me tell you—I’m officially obsessed with her newest sidekick, K1K0. This robo-chick is so adorably badass, I need one in my life. Immediately.
But wait—there’s more. The plot? Gripping. The spice? Off the charts. And when that spice evolves into a full-blown breeding kink... whew. Let’s just say I did not expect our prim and proper commander to have such a filthy mouth. And I loved every second of it.
So buckle up, space cowboys. You’re about to be beamed straight into a galaxy of heat, heart, and high-stakes adventure. 🚀
Quotes:
Damn this ma… malien. He has no business being tempting.
“No, love,” he murmurs, his hands going to his pants. “You’re the beautiful one, lying here ravished and pleasured, but ravenous for more.”
⁉️QOTD: Would you trust an alien prince with your heart—or your planet? 👽💫
#indieauthor #booklover #bookgirl #books #reader #spicybooks #booksta #bookrecs #bookstagramer #bookboyfriends #steamyromance #spicyromance #touchheranddie #alienromance #scifi #forcedproximity #review #currentlyreading #kindleunlimited #theshadyivy
September 15, 2025
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
I shouldn’t be surprised at this point, but Liana Valerian has done 👏🏽it 👏🏽 again👏🏽 Liana is giving us the most delicious cinnamon roll, walking green flag MMC with an absolutely filthy mouth that you cannot help swooning over!! In usual Liana fashion, the banter with side characters will have you cracking up and when the spice hits? Get ready to fan your face and be jealous of Tara 😂
💥An FMC in Her Mid-Thirties
🛸A Walking Green Flag MMC w/ a FILTHY mouth
💥An Adorable Robot Sidekick
🛸Slow-Burn Romance with 🌶️SPICE🌶️
💥A Special 🍆 (Bumps & Ridges 🤭)
🛸Tech That Makes Her Geek Heart Sing
💥Hilarious Side Characters
🛸A Tour Around Dystopian Earth & Pulse-Racing Battles
💥Fantastical Alien Landscapes
Tara’s life is a battle for survival in the ashes of a fallen world & when she thinks it’s the end against the Ghorvek threat plaguing Earth, the Avaren step in. The Avaren are terrifyingly advanced & devastating in battle. Their commander, Kairen, is a celestial enigma: beautiful, unreadable & far too gentle for someone who leads an army.
With a galaxy of secrets between them, Kairen hides the truth: Tara is his genetic match – the one partner fate has carved out just for him. But before he tells her, he plans to earn her trust... and maybe her heart. (Talk about a walking green flag!) As they join forces to reach Earth’s scattered leaders and push back the Ghorvek, sparks fly…literally & figuratively 🤭
But once on Avaren, will everything go smoothly, or is there unrest brewing?
I don’t know about you, but if an alien prince shows up on Earth and tells me that he’s my match AFTER he’s won my heart? Well, goodbye world, you will never see me again because I’m touring the universe with an alien hottie who is ready to worship me in every sense of the word. I am head over heels for Kairen and he checks so many boxes: protective, respectful, commanding on the battlefield and off, king of consent, ready to put in work while on his knees 👀, loving, ready to start a family as soon as you are (hello, br33d!ng k!nk)...Tara is a lucky woman! The dynamic between these two is heartwarming, and they are perfect for one another.
Cannot wait for more from this series!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
I shouldn’t be surprised at this point, but Liana Valerian has done 👏🏽it 👏🏽 again👏🏽 Liana is giving us the most delicious cinnamon roll, walking green flag MMC with an absolutely filthy mouth that you cannot help swooning over!! In usual Liana fashion, the banter with side characters will have you cracking up and when the spice hits? Get ready to fan your face and be jealous of Tara 😂
💥An FMC in Her Mid-Thirties
🛸A Walking Green Flag MMC w/ a FILTHY mouth
💥An Adorable Robot Sidekick
🛸Slow-Burn Romance with 🌶️SPICE🌶️
💥A Special 🍆 (Bumps & Ridges 🤭)
🛸Tech That Makes Her Geek Heart Sing
💥Hilarious Side Characters
🛸A Tour Around Dystopian Earth & Pulse-Racing Battles
💥Fantastical Alien Landscapes
Tara’s life is a battle for survival in the ashes of a fallen world & when she thinks it’s the end against the Ghorvek threat plaguing Earth, the Avaren step in. The Avaren are terrifyingly advanced & devastating in battle. Their commander, Kairen, is a celestial enigma: beautiful, unreadable & far too gentle for someone who leads an army.
With a galaxy of secrets between them, Kairen hides the truth: Tara is his genetic match – the one partner fate has carved out just for him. But before he tells her, he plans to earn her trust... and maybe her heart. (Talk about a walking green flag!) As they join forces to reach Earth’s scattered leaders and push back the Ghorvek, sparks fly…literally & figuratively 🤭
But once on Avaren, will everything go smoothly, or is there unrest brewing?
I don’t know about you, but if an alien prince shows up on Earth and tells me that he’s my match AFTER he’s won my heart? Well, goodbye world, you will never see me again because I’m touring the universe with an alien hottie who is ready to worship me in every sense of the word. I am head over heels for Kairen and he checks so many boxes: protective, respectful, commanding on the battlefield and off, king of consent, ready to put in work while on his knees 👀, loving, ready to start a family as soon as you are (hello, br33d!ng k!nk)...Tara is a lucky woman! The dynamic between these two is heartwarming, and they are perfect for one another.
Cannot wait for more from this series!
September 28, 2025
🪐Scars and Starlight 🪐
ARC review
So it’s only right that the author who introduced me to fantasy romance be the very same one who gets me into alien romance and make me fall in love with it 😍 I read dusk and desire which was such an amazing novella that set the scene of what happened 4 years before this book and it is very well worth the read!
But anyway fast forward 4 years and we me Tara, and I instantly fell in love with Tara’s character because like her I absolutely ramble when I’m in need/awkward situations and i absolutely adored that part of her as well as her knowledge and her personality! But also Commander Kairen 🥵 now he was all kinds of gorgeous and honestly one of the best if not my favorite cinnamon roll fmcs! But that let that fool you because my oh my the dirty talk on this man? Had me blushing!
This was a truly amazing story, where the storyline flowed seamlessly and as always has the perfect balance of spice to book ratio!! And of course it wouldn’t be a book by Liana without her making you fall in love with some of the side characters aswell! And let’s just say there is two characters I’m thinking may be one too watch out for in this series if they do become a couple because the tension 🔥
Liana wrote this book so beautifully that it really did have my head feeling clear for the first time in the last few weeks while struggling with things in my life! And her writing truly does just help me relax and get out of my head for a while. And that’s the kind of book I love where it’s just so damn good you don’t want to put it down and it just utterly sucks you in from the start!
So again and as always thank you so much Liana for allowing me to be on the team but also being the most kind hearted and amazing author I’ve ever read for and for your understanding you truly are the best❤️
ARC review
So it’s only right that the author who introduced me to fantasy romance be the very same one who gets me into alien romance and make me fall in love with it 😍 I read dusk and desire which was such an amazing novella that set the scene of what happened 4 years before this book and it is very well worth the read!
But anyway fast forward 4 years and we me Tara, and I instantly fell in love with Tara’s character because like her I absolutely ramble when I’m in need/awkward situations and i absolutely adored that part of her as well as her knowledge and her personality! But also Commander Kairen 🥵 now he was all kinds of gorgeous and honestly one of the best if not my favorite cinnamon roll fmcs! But that let that fool you because my oh my the dirty talk on this man? Had me blushing!
This was a truly amazing story, where the storyline flowed seamlessly and as always has the perfect balance of spice to book ratio!! And of course it wouldn’t be a book by Liana without her making you fall in love with some of the side characters aswell! And let’s just say there is two characters I’m thinking may be one too watch out for in this series if they do become a couple because the tension 🔥
Liana wrote this book so beautifully that it really did have my head feeling clear for the first time in the last few weeks while struggling with things in my life! And her writing truly does just help me relax and get out of my head for a while. And that’s the kind of book I love where it’s just so damn good you don’t want to put it down and it just utterly sucks you in from the start!
So again and as always thank you so much Liana for allowing me to be on the team but also being the most kind hearted and amazing author I’ve ever read for and for your understanding you truly are the best❤️
December 24, 2025
This book gave me so much comfort despite its dystopian setting! I don’t know how Liana managed to make me feel like I was being hugged while also evading alien capture in certain scenes.
Can we take a second to talk about GREEN FLAG MMCs? Because Kai is right up there. He is just the best. Now, I love a morally grey, red-flagged guy as much as the rest of us, but there was something so pure and promising about Kai and Tara.
This story didn’t shy away from depth and covered intense feelings and situations beautifully (as can only be expected from a Liana Valerian book).
Despite the displacement the characters go through, and how much you actively feel like you’re living it alongside them, Liana still manages to keep everything grounded and centered. You’re held steady through it all thanks to Kai and Kiko.
I also want to take a moment to appreciate the FMC, because she is badass. I love that she isn’t super young, and it’s fantastic to see her in STEM. I really enjoyed watching her fascination with engineering and the way her knowledge could be applied aboard the spaceships.
We all need a Kiko, okay? He is absolutely adorable. The sidekick we can only hope for.
The tension and pacing were great, as usual. I loved that we got to see so much of Earth ( its politics and current state) while also traveling to another planet. I can’t wait to see where the rest of this series goes.
Special shout out to some of the side characters. Such a great cast, that i just know, in my heart of hearts, how tension filled the next book in the series will be, purely because of how well written these side characters were.
And yes, the spice was really good. It felt natural and real, not forced, even with the forced proximity (which we love anyway). Only one horse? Try only one spaceship.
Can we take a second to talk about GREEN FLAG MMCs? Because Kai is right up there. He is just the best. Now, I love a morally grey, red-flagged guy as much as the rest of us, but there was something so pure and promising about Kai and Tara.
This story didn’t shy away from depth and covered intense feelings and situations beautifully (as can only be expected from a Liana Valerian book).
Despite the displacement the characters go through, and how much you actively feel like you’re living it alongside them, Liana still manages to keep everything grounded and centered. You’re held steady through it all thanks to Kai and Kiko.
I also want to take a moment to appreciate the FMC, because she is badass. I love that she isn’t super young, and it’s fantastic to see her in STEM. I really enjoyed watching her fascination with engineering and the way her knowledge could be applied aboard the spaceships.
We all need a Kiko, okay? He is absolutely adorable. The sidekick we can only hope for.
The tension and pacing were great, as usual. I loved that we got to see so much of Earth ( its politics and current state) while also traveling to another planet. I can’t wait to see where the rest of this series goes.
Special shout out to some of the side characters. Such a great cast, that i just know, in my heart of hearts, how tension filled the next book in the series will be, purely because of how well written these side characters were.
And yes, the spice was really good. It felt natural and real, not forced, even with the forced proximity (which we love anyway). Only one horse? Try only one spaceship.
September 17, 2025
“Your mouth is so hot. I want to own every inch of it, mark it as mine.”
“I vow to be your grounding wire when storms rage, your spark when shadows fall, and to never stop building the life we’ve started together.”
Who can help swooning when the MC says these kind of things?! This was the cozy, spicy sci-fi read for fall I didn’t know I needed!
What it is about?
Tara survived the initial Ghorvek alien invasion and was taken in by a group of survivors. As their camp is attacked by them, she isn’t sure they will make it until another alien group swoops in and destroys the Ghorvek. Weary to trust any alien, Tara ends up on an Avaren ship with Kairen, the commander of the army, and she can’t help but be attracted to him. She doesn’t realize he’s her genetic match/mate, and Kairen doesn’t want her to know until he can win her heart and get to know her better.
My Thoughts:
Kairen is the perfect cinnamon roll hottie who will remove anyone who threatens his match. I love that he can be a fierce commander and deliver fatal consequences to those who deserve it, but he is also fair, gentle and kind— and he has the dirtiest mouth! Tara is a survivor, and I was thrilled that she is in her mid-30’s, determined, smart and a techie. These two have so much heat and sexual tension between them that when the spice gets going, it’s fiery! The robot sidekick, Kiko, is just adorable, and I want one!
Although placed in an exciting, dystopian world, the real story is the beautiful relationship between Kairen and Tara. If you enjoy fated mates, forced proximity, a super hot dirty-mouthed cinnamon roll MC and slow burn that delivers on the spice, run to add this to your TBR!
“I vow to be your grounding wire when storms rage, your spark when shadows fall, and to never stop building the life we’ve started together.”
Who can help swooning when the MC says these kind of things?! This was the cozy, spicy sci-fi read for fall I didn’t know I needed!
What it is about?
Tara survived the initial Ghorvek alien invasion and was taken in by a group of survivors. As their camp is attacked by them, she isn’t sure they will make it until another alien group swoops in and destroys the Ghorvek. Weary to trust any alien, Tara ends up on an Avaren ship with Kairen, the commander of the army, and she can’t help but be attracted to him. She doesn’t realize he’s her genetic match/mate, and Kairen doesn’t want her to know until he can win her heart and get to know her better.
My Thoughts:
Kairen is the perfect cinnamon roll hottie who will remove anyone who threatens his match. I love that he can be a fierce commander and deliver fatal consequences to those who deserve it, but he is also fair, gentle and kind— and he has the dirtiest mouth! Tara is a survivor, and I was thrilled that she is in her mid-30’s, determined, smart and a techie. These two have so much heat and sexual tension between them that when the spice gets going, it’s fiery! The robot sidekick, Kiko, is just adorable, and I want one!
Although placed in an exciting, dystopian world, the real story is the beautiful relationship between Kairen and Tara. If you enjoy fated mates, forced proximity, a super hot dirty-mouthed cinnamon roll MC and slow burn that delivers on the spice, run to add this to your TBR!
October 6, 2025
This was such an enjoyable read. I haven’t come across many alien invasion reads so I was looking forward to this one. The novella prequel, Dusk & Desire, where the invasion starts, was great and set me on this series journey.
Tara is four years into Earths invasion by the Gorvek when the Avaren show up. This advanced species travel the galaxies hunting the Gorvek and liberating the plants they have invaded. Her life is saved by Kairen, commander of the fleet and next in line to rule.
From there this read made me laugh and smile and kept me engaged. It’s pretty low angst once Tara realizes the Avaren are not enemies. The relationship development between Tara and Kai is so sweet and I loved their chemistry. The technology advances of the Avaren were well done and made sense and became so important to the story. And it also added a lot of humor while Tara and Kai figured each other out.
The plot point where the Avaren need to find genetic matches to keep their race going and their view on women in general was amazing. I loved how they all held females in high regard, especially their genetic matches and how having a genetic match is not an automatic assumption the couple will be together was great. Choice, consent, and respect were king in this read!
Tara was a great FMC. She was strong, confident, and battle ready, able to fight and contribute. And Kai loved that about her. I loved how in awe he was of her. We get a great mix of them figuring out their feelings while they travel the world meeting with who’s left of the world leaders and some action/suspense with a disgruntled Avaren and some Gorvak battles.
I can’t wait to read more in the series. The other Avaren we are introduced to have me wanting more. We get some great peeks into who may be next to find their genetic match!
Tara is four years into Earths invasion by the Gorvek when the Avaren show up. This advanced species travel the galaxies hunting the Gorvek and liberating the plants they have invaded. Her life is saved by Kairen, commander of the fleet and next in line to rule.
From there this read made me laugh and smile and kept me engaged. It’s pretty low angst once Tara realizes the Avaren are not enemies. The relationship development between Tara and Kai is so sweet and I loved their chemistry. The technology advances of the Avaren were well done and made sense and became so important to the story. And it also added a lot of humor while Tara and Kai figured each other out.
The plot point where the Avaren need to find genetic matches to keep their race going and their view on women in general was amazing. I loved how they all held females in high regard, especially their genetic matches and how having a genetic match is not an automatic assumption the couple will be together was great. Choice, consent, and respect were king in this read!
Tara was a great FMC. She was strong, confident, and battle ready, able to fight and contribute. And Kai loved that about her. I loved how in awe he was of her. We get a great mix of them figuring out their feelings while they travel the world meeting with who’s left of the world leaders and some action/suspense with a disgruntled Avaren and some Gorvak battles.
I can’t wait to read more in the series. The other Avaren we are introduced to have me wanting more. We get some great peeks into who may be next to find their genetic match!
September 26, 2025
✨️ A love written in the stars ✨️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“You don’t have to fight the whole universe alone anymore.”
From the very first page, Stars and Starlight by Liana Valerian swept me into a world on fire, only to replace the ash with something breathtakingly luminous. Tara is a heroine forged in survival, sharp-edged and scarred, yet vulnerable in the moments when her strength falters. Enter Kairen: commanding yet tender, a contradiction wrapped in starlight. Their chemistry isn’t just electric—it’s gravitational, pulling everything else in the story into their orbit.
Valerian balances apocalyptic stakes with a romance that feels both inevitable and fragile. The alien invasion is cinematic in scope, but what kept me turning pages at a reckless pace was the emotional push and pull between two souls—born galaxies apart—who shouldn’t fit together, but do.
The prose itself glimmers—lush descriptions that never drag, action scenes that crackle with intensity, passionate embraces illustrated in breathtaking technicolour, and quiet interludes where love feels like both rebellion and refuge. There’s a constant thread of hope, even when the odds seem insurmountable, making this a story that doesn’t just entertain but uplifts.
Verdict: A dazzling, heart-pounding fusion of romance and sci-fi, Stars and Starlight proves that even at the end of the world, love can be the fiercest weapon of all. Five shining stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“You don’t have to fight the whole universe alone anymore.”
From the very first page, Stars and Starlight by Liana Valerian swept me into a world on fire, only to replace the ash with something breathtakingly luminous. Tara is a heroine forged in survival, sharp-edged and scarred, yet vulnerable in the moments when her strength falters. Enter Kairen: commanding yet tender, a contradiction wrapped in starlight. Their chemistry isn’t just electric—it’s gravitational, pulling everything else in the story into their orbit.
Valerian balances apocalyptic stakes with a romance that feels both inevitable and fragile. The alien invasion is cinematic in scope, but what kept me turning pages at a reckless pace was the emotional push and pull between two souls—born galaxies apart—who shouldn’t fit together, but do.
The prose itself glimmers—lush descriptions that never drag, action scenes that crackle with intensity, passionate embraces illustrated in breathtaking technicolour, and quiet interludes where love feels like both rebellion and refuge. There’s a constant thread of hope, even when the odds seem insurmountable, making this a story that doesn’t just entertain but uplifts.
Verdict: A dazzling, heart-pounding fusion of romance and sci-fi, Stars and Starlight proves that even at the end of the world, love can be the fiercest weapon of all. Five shining stars.
October 5, 2025
▸Sci-fi romance
▸Alien Romance
▸Fated mates
▸Forced proximity
▸Mars needs women
▸Green flag MMC
▸Emotional depth
▸Touch her and d1e
▸One bed
▸All the feels
▸Dystopian Earth
▸Space Exploration
First, I looove the cover!😍 and second, I absolutely loved this book from start to finish, I have absolutely nothing to complain about🤩 if I could give it more than 5-stars, I would!💖 this book is really interesting from the very first chapter, we are immediately presented with Kairen and Tara who meet each other when evil aliens, the Ghovrek, attacked one of the human survivor camp where Tara lives. the storyline and character development in this story are great, Tara and Kairen are both really well written characters🥰 it makes you want to meet them for real(especially Kairen) the two work well together and have a very natural chemistry✨ what a great alien romance and wonderful male lead character, highly recommended!✨💖
4 years after the evil aliens The Ghovrek came to invade Earth, Tara must survive when a group of The Ghovrek overran the survivor camp where she lived. Tara who was injured while trying to save the children was helped by the commander of the planet Avaris, Kairen, who offered to assist the remaining earth survivors to push back the Ghorvek threat.
💖💖Huge thanks to Liana Valerian for including me on her ARC team, it's an honor and privilege to me. All opinions are my own💖💖
▸Alien Romance
▸Fated mates
▸Forced proximity
▸Mars needs women
▸Green flag MMC
▸Emotional depth
▸Touch her and d1e
▸One bed
▸All the feels
▸Dystopian Earth
▸Space Exploration
"Kairen. The moment I saw you, I was drawn to you like a magnet. It felt as if you were a massive object entering my system, changing my orbit with your gravity. Yet you weren't derailing me. You were stabilizing me."
First, I looove the cover!😍 and second, I absolutely loved this book from start to finish, I have absolutely nothing to complain about🤩 if I could give it more than 5-stars, I would!💖 this book is really interesting from the very first chapter, we are immediately presented with Kairen and Tara who meet each other when evil aliens, the Ghovrek, attacked one of the human survivor camp where Tara lives. the storyline and character development in this story are great, Tara and Kairen are both really well written characters🥰 it makes you want to meet them for real(especially Kairen) the two work well together and have a very natural chemistry✨ what a great alien romance and wonderful male lead character, highly recommended!✨💖
"You say you were born for me, but the truth is, the Creators made me to be everything you will need in this life and the next. The cycles that passed before we met only served to prepare me to be the best match I can possibly be for you, so that I could share my knowledge and my experience once I was yours."
4 years after the evil aliens The Ghovrek came to invade Earth, Tara must survive when a group of The Ghovrek overran the survivor camp where she lived. Tara who was injured while trying to save the children was helped by the commander of the planet Avaris, Kairen, who offered to assist the remaining earth survivors to push back the Ghorvek threat.
💖💖Huge thanks to Liana Valerian for including me on her ARC team, it's an honor and privilege to me. All opinions are my own💖💖
October 9, 2025
My ARC review
I could not put this book down; it was absolutely addictive from start to finish! Every part of it was deliciously well done. The world building was smooth and immersive, easy to follow without being overwhelming. The plot was gripping, full of twists that had me raising my eyebrows and a romance bursting with tension, longing, and those perfect “what if” moments. I devoured every page.
The FMC was fantastic; strong, capable, and a true survivor, yet wonderfully human in her insecurities, especially when faced with the impossibly attractive, godlike alien male. She’s the kind of character every woman can relate to in some way.
And the MMC? Absolute perfection. As the leader of an army, he’s powerful, commanding, and armed with advanced technology, yet treats her with a blend of protectiveness and respect. I loved that instead of coddling her, he empowers her; giving her the tools to defend herself while still cherishing her. And yes, his physical description is pure fantasy fuel. His devotion to finding his mate and fulfilling her every desire makes him completely irresistible. Despite being alien, he feels so emotionally real, which makes this story the perfect bridge for readers new to alien romance.
There are also some amazing side characters (Caden, especially!) that I’m dying to read more about. I cannot wait to see what the author does next with this world; it’s one I never wanted to leave!
I could not put this book down; it was absolutely addictive from start to finish! Every part of it was deliciously well done. The world building was smooth and immersive, easy to follow without being overwhelming. The plot was gripping, full of twists that had me raising my eyebrows and a romance bursting with tension, longing, and those perfect “what if” moments. I devoured every page.
The FMC was fantastic; strong, capable, and a true survivor, yet wonderfully human in her insecurities, especially when faced with the impossibly attractive, godlike alien male. She’s the kind of character every woman can relate to in some way.
And the MMC? Absolute perfection. As the leader of an army, he’s powerful, commanding, and armed with advanced technology, yet treats her with a blend of protectiveness and respect. I loved that instead of coddling her, he empowers her; giving her the tools to defend herself while still cherishing her. And yes, his physical description is pure fantasy fuel. His devotion to finding his mate and fulfilling her every desire makes him completely irresistible. Despite being alien, he feels so emotionally real, which makes this story the perfect bridge for readers new to alien romance.
There are also some amazing side characters (Caden, especially!) that I’m dying to read more about. I cannot wait to see what the author does next with this world; it’s one I never wanted to leave!
October 30, 2025
Rating: 3.75/5⭐️
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Themes:
🌿 Fated Mates
🌿 Alien Invasion
🌿 Sci-Fi
🌿 Forced Proximity
🌿 Dystopian
🌿 Dual POV
Earth was invaded by the Gorvek four years ago, and since then Tara has been separated from her family. When the Gorvek attack the outpost where she’s been taking shelter, she believes her time has finally come—until another alien species, the Avaren, intervene to eradicate the invaders. The Avaren travel the galaxy liberating conquered planets, and the one who saves Tara’s life happens to be none other than the fleet’s commander and heir to the Avaren throne.
This was an enjoyable read with several unique elements that I haven’t often seen in this genre, such as the inclusion of nanites. Tara was a relatable and grounded protagonist—especially with her STEM-oriented curiosity and constant desire to understand how things work. Her inner monologue felt authentic and easy to connect with. And Kairen? An absolute cinnamon roll when it comes to Tara.
The story is fast-paced and full of action, making it a whirlwind from start to finish. At times, I did find myself wishing for a bit more emotional depth and development in the relationship between Tara and Kairen. The ending felt a little rushed, but it also leaves the door open for a potential continuation of their story.
Overall, this is a light, quick read that’s perfect for anyone wanting to dip their toes into the sci-fi romance genre.
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Themes:
🌿 Fated Mates
🌿 Alien Invasion
🌿 Sci-Fi
🌿 Forced Proximity
🌿 Dystopian
🌿 Dual POV
Earth was invaded by the Gorvek four years ago, and since then Tara has been separated from her family. When the Gorvek attack the outpost where she’s been taking shelter, she believes her time has finally come—until another alien species, the Avaren, intervene to eradicate the invaders. The Avaren travel the galaxy liberating conquered planets, and the one who saves Tara’s life happens to be none other than the fleet’s commander and heir to the Avaren throne.
This was an enjoyable read with several unique elements that I haven’t often seen in this genre, such as the inclusion of nanites. Tara was a relatable and grounded protagonist—especially with her STEM-oriented curiosity and constant desire to understand how things work. Her inner monologue felt authentic and easy to connect with. And Kairen? An absolute cinnamon roll when it comes to Tara.
The story is fast-paced and full of action, making it a whirlwind from start to finish. At times, I did find myself wishing for a bit more emotional depth and development in the relationship between Tara and Kairen. The ending felt a little rushed, but it also leaves the door open for a potential continuation of their story.
Overall, this is a light, quick read that’s perfect for anyone wanting to dip their toes into the sci-fi romance genre.
August 17, 2025
I could NOT put this book down!
It was delicious in every way! The world building is gentle and easy to get your head around. The story is gripping with plot twists to make you raise your eyebrows and a love story full of tension and what if moments! I couldn't get enough of it!
The FMC is strong yet flawed and confident in her survival skills yet puts herself down when it comes to an attractive, a god-like specimen of an alien male. Every woman can relate to her where our own insecurities are concerned!
The MMC is perfect. He's the head of an army with incredible strength and technology at his disposal. He handles her like she's a delicate flower needing protecting, but he gives her the tools to defend herself rather than treating her like a prized possession, which I love! I'm not going to lie, his physical appearance is something out of s3xual fantasy, and this man does not disappoint in his conquest to find his mate and see that her every desire is met. He feels more human, which makes this alien romance more appealing to those that don't want to submit to this field of romance 😉 but don't be shy because I think this book opens a whole new world to people who might be reluctant to give it a go.
There are a few side characters that I immediately wanted an entire book based on, Caden to mention one! I can't wait to see where the author goes next with this book!
It was delicious in every way! The world building is gentle and easy to get your head around. The story is gripping with plot twists to make you raise your eyebrows and a love story full of tension and what if moments! I couldn't get enough of it!
The FMC is strong yet flawed and confident in her survival skills yet puts herself down when it comes to an attractive, a god-like specimen of an alien male. Every woman can relate to her where our own insecurities are concerned!
The MMC is perfect. He's the head of an army with incredible strength and technology at his disposal. He handles her like she's a delicate flower needing protecting, but he gives her the tools to defend herself rather than treating her like a prized possession, which I love! I'm not going to lie, his physical appearance is something out of s3xual fantasy, and this man does not disappoint in his conquest to find his mate and see that her every desire is met. He feels more human, which makes this alien romance more appealing to those that don't want to submit to this field of romance 😉 but don't be shy because I think this book opens a whole new world to people who might be reluctant to give it a go.
There are a few side characters that I immediately wanted an entire book based on, Caden to mention one! I can't wait to see where the author goes next with this book!
September 15, 2025
Another fantastic book by Liana. I SO enjoyed reading this sweet and steamy sci fi romance and the adventures of Kairen, Tara and their team of Avarens. The plot, romance and humour throughout was so entertaining it kept me turning the pages frantically for more. I was so hooked and smiling like a deranged person 😂
Kairen is just the sweetest malien (as Tara calls him) he’s handsome, kind and thoughtful but violent when he needs to be. He has a special place in my heart as he is my first alien book boyfriend 😍
Tara is beautiful, clever, kind and tough when she needs to be. A fantastic FMC for the story and I just loved the closeness between her and Kairen. The way they were together makes you want to melt …… it was just lovely *sigh*
Oh and Kiko! …… he is such an adorable little mech and an endearing addition to the story ❤️ He adores Tara and tries to be with her everywhere. I have to also give a shout out to the nanites too! They were such clever little mites and I certainly wouldn’t mind having some of them 😊
The events that unfolded towards the end of the book had me on the edge of my seat. Korvann was just plain evil and his daughter not much better but the actual ending was absolutely gorgeous and I hope we get more soon!!
Kairen is just the sweetest malien (as Tara calls him) he’s handsome, kind and thoughtful but violent when he needs to be. He has a special place in my heart as he is my first alien book boyfriend 😍
Tara is beautiful, clever, kind and tough when she needs to be. A fantastic FMC for the story and I just loved the closeness between her and Kairen. The way they were together makes you want to melt …… it was just lovely *sigh*
Oh and Kiko! …… he is such an adorable little mech and an endearing addition to the story ❤️ He adores Tara and tries to be with her everywhere. I have to also give a shout out to the nanites too! They were such clever little mites and I certainly wouldn’t mind having some of them 😊
The events that unfolded towards the end of the book had me on the edge of my seat. Korvann was just plain evil and his daughter not much better but the actual ending was absolutely gorgeous and I hope we get more soon!!
September 24, 2025
Okay so I devoured Scars & Starlight! This is a wonderful sci-fi read for folks who may be new to the genre or don't typically read sci-fi!
Kairen is the perfect mix between gentleman (gentlemalien I think Tara would put it? LOL) and dirty mouthed! And the alien cargo he's working with? I need one. 🤣 He's the prince of Avaris and on Earth to rid the planet of the Ghorvek, another alien species wreaking havoc across galaxies. I adore his character and the OTT possessive behavior he shows toward his match Tara. 🔥
Tara has been dealing with this apocalypse for about 4 years now, and she's had to figure out how to take care of herself being on the other side of the world away from her family. She's strong willed, funny, and compassionate toward all other living creatures. (I'm still thinking about the gecko moment!) 💛 Honestly I'm impressed with how understanding she is with her predicament, because I fear I would fully crash out! 😅
I can't wait to see what else comes from this series because there's a few other side characters I would love to see find their matches!! This series is great so far! Liana always finds a way to blend humor with more serious topics and I will never get enough of her writing!
This is an ARC review I am leaving voluntarily and all thoughts are my own.
Kairen is the perfect mix between gentleman (gentlemalien I think Tara would put it? LOL) and dirty mouthed! And the alien cargo he's working with? I need one. 🤣 He's the prince of Avaris and on Earth to rid the planet of the Ghorvek, another alien species wreaking havoc across galaxies. I adore his character and the OTT possessive behavior he shows toward his match Tara. 🔥
Tara has been dealing with this apocalypse for about 4 years now, and she's had to figure out how to take care of herself being on the other side of the world away from her family. She's strong willed, funny, and compassionate toward all other living creatures. (I'm still thinking about the gecko moment!) 💛 Honestly I'm impressed with how understanding she is with her predicament, because I fear I would fully crash out! 😅
I can't wait to see what else comes from this series because there's a few other side characters I would love to see find their matches!! This series is great so far! Liana always finds a way to blend humor with more serious topics and I will never get enough of her writing!
This is an ARC review I am leaving voluntarily and all thoughts are my own.
September 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
5 stars and a million rounds of applause for Liana and this work of art 🪐👽✨ This is a fun, cozy sci-fi romance that I would 100% recommend to anyone who likes some spice and wants to get into sci-fi! The world-building is phenomenal, and I would be first in line to be beamed up into a UFO and sent off to Avaren. 🛸🩷
You get it all with this book, y’all: alien invasion, good guys/bad guys, found family, fated mates. Tara is the FMC I didn’t know I needed to be represented in a book - she’s in her 30s, intelligent, and a little flawed. Kairen is a total cinnamon roll with a dirty mouth. 😅😍 Then there’s Kiko, and y’all know I melt for a precious robot character, so he had my heart 🤖🐓 Not to mention, all of the stunning side characters that I need books about ASAP.
Anyway… This is me while I wait for the next one. 🫠✨🩷
🌶️🌶️🌶️
5 stars and a million rounds of applause for Liana and this work of art 🪐👽✨ This is a fun, cozy sci-fi romance that I would 100% recommend to anyone who likes some spice and wants to get into sci-fi! The world-building is phenomenal, and I would be first in line to be beamed up into a UFO and sent off to Avaren. 🛸🩷
You get it all with this book, y’all: alien invasion, good guys/bad guys, found family, fated mates. Tara is the FMC I didn’t know I needed to be represented in a book - she’s in her 30s, intelligent, and a little flawed. Kairen is a total cinnamon roll with a dirty mouth. 😅😍 Then there’s Kiko, and y’all know I melt for a precious robot character, so he had my heart 🤖🐓 Not to mention, all of the stunning side characters that I need books about ASAP.
Anyway… This is me while I wait for the next one. 🫠✨🩷
October 17, 2025
Can you find your fated in another galaxy?
This was my first book by Liana Valerian, and I enjoyed it immensely! Scars & Starlight is a cozy sci-fi dystopian romance filled with heart, heat, and hope.
The world-building was fantastic really intriguing, vivid, and easy to imagine. The story takes place a few years after an alien invasion, and it immediately drew me in.
Our FMC, Tara, is a strong, kind, and capable engineer and fighter working with a group of rebels. Most importantly, she feels wonderfully real. Then there’s our MMC, Kairen or Kai a total cinnamon bun, white-knight, hot-as-sin alien man who completely stole my heart. When their paths cross, their journey takes off, and it’s both sweet and steamy in the best ways. And I have to mention K1KO, the adorable little pocket sidekick , like I seriously need one of my own!
I won’t spoil anything (because if you’re reading reviews, you’re already halfway to picking this up), but here’s what I’ll say: the pacing was perfect, the writing smooth and immersive, and the characters were all easy to love.
Thank you, Liana, for trusting me with this ARC. I absolutely loved every page!
This was my first book by Liana Valerian, and I enjoyed it immensely! Scars & Starlight is a cozy sci-fi dystopian romance filled with heart, heat, and hope.
The world-building was fantastic really intriguing, vivid, and easy to imagine. The story takes place a few years after an alien invasion, and it immediately drew me in.
Our FMC, Tara, is a strong, kind, and capable engineer and fighter working with a group of rebels. Most importantly, she feels wonderfully real. Then there’s our MMC, Kairen or Kai a total cinnamon bun, white-knight, hot-as-sin alien man who completely stole my heart. When their paths cross, their journey takes off, and it’s both sweet and steamy in the best ways. And I have to mention K1KO, the adorable little pocket sidekick , like I seriously need one of my own!
I won’t spoil anything (because if you’re reading reviews, you’re already halfway to picking this up), but here’s what I’ll say: the pacing was perfect, the writing smooth and immersive, and the characters were all easy to love.
Thank you, Liana, for trusting me with this ARC. I absolutely loved every page!
September 18, 2025
2.5 rounded up.
For fans of Ice Planet Barbarians!
Overall, this book was fine but nothing really special. It started off really good: I loved the beginning! The issue came in once he told her she was his match. It was as if all the tension just…… left the book. 😅 I didn’t feel any stakes at all.
The two travel around talking to some politicians while having sex (not at the same time lol). Then even though they haven’t done anything really important to get the bad aliens off the planet, they just leave to have her meet his mother. 🤨 You’d think there’d be… more of a rush to kill these aliens that are KILLING people all over the planet?!?!?!??
Then there’s the climax which is honestly SUPER anticlimactic and very silly. 😅
And that’s it. I really think the climax should not have been what it was. There wasn’t enough set up nor execution to have a political situation like it. We really should have had a climax on Earth of her finding her family or something instead. I just needed more stakes!!!
So, I won’t be reading more of the series.
For fans of Ice Planet Barbarians!
Overall, this book was fine but nothing really special. It started off really good: I loved the beginning! The issue came in once he told her she was his match. It was as if all the tension just…… left the book. 😅 I didn’t feel any stakes at all.
The two travel around talking to some politicians while having sex (not at the same time lol). Then even though they haven’t done anything really important to get the bad aliens off the planet, they just leave to have her meet his mother. 🤨 You’d think there’d be… more of a rush to kill these aliens that are KILLING people all over the planet?!?!?!??
Then there’s the climax which is honestly SUPER anticlimactic and very silly. 😅
And that’s it. I really think the climax should not have been what it was. There wasn’t enough set up nor execution to have a political situation like it. We really should have had a climax on Earth of her finding her family or something instead. I just needed more stakes!!!
So, I won’t be reading more of the series.
October 3, 2025
This was a slow burn to spicy sci-fi alien romance 🥵 🔥
A human named Tara has been living in an apocalyptic world and after being injured wakes up aboard an unknown alien space ship. She soon finds herself swooning over the extremely attractive alien that can’t stop saving her life.
Did I mention that this alien is not only breathtakingly gorgeous but he is a literal walking talking green flag!
Kairen is the Avaris prince and he is apart of an advanced alien race. He is also the commander of the Avaren space ship that Tara woke up on. Kairen is drawn to Tara and takes his time working to win her over before showing her just how much he wants to claim her heart, her mind, and her body. He fully intends to ruin her for anyone else.
I almost forgot, he gifts Tara with the cutest alien mec robot named Kiko to help translate and to be her intergalactic space companion! 5 ⭐️’s I would shelve this under must read sizzling hot alien romance 📚 👾 🤭
I did receive this as an ARC but these thoughts are my own.
A human named Tara has been living in an apocalyptic world and after being injured wakes up aboard an unknown alien space ship. She soon finds herself swooning over the extremely attractive alien that can’t stop saving her life.
Did I mention that this alien is not only breathtakingly gorgeous but he is a literal walking talking green flag!
Kairen is the Avaris prince and he is apart of an advanced alien race. He is also the commander of the Avaren space ship that Tara woke up on. Kairen is drawn to Tara and takes his time working to win her over before showing her just how much he wants to claim her heart, her mind, and her body. He fully intends to ruin her for anyone else.
I almost forgot, he gifts Tara with the cutest alien mec robot named Kiko to help translate and to be her intergalactic space companion! 5 ⭐️’s I would shelve this under must read sizzling hot alien romance 📚 👾 🤭
I did receive this as an ARC but these thoughts are my own.
September 28, 2025
A sci fi romance anyone? Scars & Starlight might be exactly what you're looking for. Liana just proved with this book that she can write anything. Not only is she the paranormal romance queen for me but she brilliantly mastered this sci-fi story.
Kai was the gentlest alien I've read about, but don't let his kindness fool you. That man had me swooning and panting with his dirty talking. Don't even get me started on the br33ding kink. 🫦
I loved that we had a smart, level-headed FMC in her thirties. Tara was so cute and funny. Her awkwardness was totally relatable.
I fear that Kai has set the bar way too high for all fictional men. New book boyfriend unlocked!
The plot and world building were addictive and gripping. The side characters gave me all the found family vibes that I needed.
Liana's writing is so beautiful. This book had the most heartwarming and emotional vows I've read in a while. I may need a thousand more books in this series 🥹
Kai was the gentlest alien I've read about, but don't let his kindness fool you. That man had me swooning and panting with his dirty talking. Don't even get me started on the br33ding kink. 🫦
I loved that we had a smart, level-headed FMC in her thirties. Tara was so cute and funny. Her awkwardness was totally relatable.
I fear that Kai has set the bar way too high for all fictional men. New book boyfriend unlocked!
The plot and world building were addictive and gripping. The side characters gave me all the found family vibes that I needed.
Liana's writing is so beautiful. This book had the most heartwarming and emotional vows I've read in a while. I may need a thousand more books in this series 🥹
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews