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The Starborn Series #1
The Wildborn
Not yet published
Expected 28 Jul 26To walk the path of a morazir, I will exist in three states of being:
Untouched.
Untaken.
Unconquered.
Airik, a battle-scarred warrior serving the cruel intergalactic empire of the Veynari, craves silence from the nightmares tormenting his mind. But while on post to decommission a failed experiment of a planet, a rogue human spacecraft crashes, and a reckless decision leaves him stranded—entangled with a woman he never should have saved.
Nora wakes light-years from Earth, broken in body and spirit, at the mercy of an alien soldier who refuses to let her die. Devastatingly beautiful, terrifyingly competent, and bound by a warrior’s oath that permits touch only to destroy, he’s the reluctant guardian angel she neither wants nor believes she deserves.
Nora wakes light-years from Earth, broken in body and spirit, at the mercy of an alien soldier who refuses to let her die. Devastatingly beautiful, terrifyingly competent, and bound by a warrior’s oath that permits touch only to destroy, he’s the reluctant guardian angel she neither wants nor believes she deserves.
Trapped together, they’re forced to navigate a brutal landscape, vicious beasts, and the deadly remnants of an abandoned world. Duty demands Airik’s cold indifference. Yet Nora sparks something deliciously alive—and entirely forbidden—within him. What begins as necessity ignites a primal hunger: scorching, consuming, and impossible to resist.
But even if they survive, the Veynari—ever present and ruthless—won’t allow its warriors weakness like love. For Airik and Nora to be together, they must risk everything.
The Wildborn is a steamy, high-stakes sci-fi romance featuring forced proximity with an emotionally repressed alien protector who falls hard. Perfect for fans of Zoey Draven’s immersive world-building, the dark emotional complexities of Victoria Aveline’s Ruling Sikthand, and the lyrical storytelling of Grace Draven.
Note from the author: This novel contains emotionally intense themes, including grief and trauma. A full list of content considerations is available on the author’s website.
689 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 28, 2026
About the author
Perri Torani
1 book57 followersPerri Torani writes soul-aching sci-fi and paranormal romance. Her favorite kind of suffering to write about involves tormented heroes and the lovers who bring them to their knees. She doesn’t know how to tell a love story that doesn’t hurt—but don’t worry, she’ll heal the pain by the end. She loves her characters too much to let them suffer past the final page.
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June 14, 2026pre:read
one of my most anticipated ARCs this year just hit the kindle, BRB while I dive right in
one of my most anticipated ARCs this year just hit the kindle, BRB while I dive right in
June 19, 2026
WHAT A BOOK !!!
well that was fucking incredible ???
Cauthorperritorani I adore you & your brain for giving us Airik and Nora, their story is heartbreakingly beautiful & romantic.
Genuinely one of my favourite reads of the year, deliciously spicy, funny, full of healing. I just adore these two tortured souls so much
"For the rest of this life, you're mine. If there's an eternity after, you're mine for all of it. If there are more universes than this one, I'll find you everywhere -and you'll be mine in all of them."
I AM UNWELL
well that was fucking incredible ???
Cauthorperritorani I adore you & your brain for giving us Airik and Nora, their story is heartbreakingly beautiful & romantic.
Genuinely one of my favourite reads of the year, deliciously spicy, funny, full of healing. I just adore these two tortured souls so much
"For the rest of this life, you're mine. If there's an eternity after, you're mine for all of it. If there are more universes than this one, I'll find you everywhere -and you'll be mine in all of them."
I AM UNWELL
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐️/ 4🌶️
*Thank you so much to Perri Torani for providing me an arc of this book, I greatly appreciate and overjoyed at this book I have been anticipating to read!
*Check content warnings before reading
Omg where do I bring with how much I LOVE this book? From the moment I came across Perri’s instagram account and saw some artwork she had commissioned for her book, and little snippets about it, I was so eager to read her book. With the great honor to arc read her book, it made my day to finally get a chance to read this amazing story. Nora and Airik’s story was such a fascinating one to read because, it showed two souls who were very much alone, and honestly craved for something they couldn’t quite put a name to. When meeting each other, Nora and Airik’s lives changed in ways they couldn’t possibly imagine and it was thrilling to see them grow closer as the story went on.
From Nora and Airik being sad boy/sad girl to forced proximity, an oath bound MMC, an MMC who quite literally was touch starved and an FMC who felt so alone among the humans she was previously with, there was a lot of interesting things when it came to these characters and their story. The thing that really caught my attention was seeing how Airik and Nora were from different worlds, and as they got to know each other they were able to learn new things as well as experience them. Since Airik was an oath bound Morzair, a warrior bound to not be touched, and live by other codes set before him, he had never really known the touch of another. To see Airik gradually and honestly quickly become so enthralled by Nora, it made him want to feel the touch of Nora’s skin, her lips, and want every single part of her for himself. Nora was similar in the way she couldn’t help but want to feel Airik in a way she has felt before, there was a sense of desire that ignited in her due to Airik. In addition, seeing such lonely souls find one another, Nora and Airik became each other’s happiness, peace, and support in a way they had always hoped for.
This story was filled with so many things that ranged from the darker realities Nora and Airik faced to a blossoming relationship that brought so much joy , to an intriguing plot line that got even more intense and fascinating as the story went. Nora and Airik’s story wasn’t just one of a human and an alien falling in love, it was also one that shed light on the difficulties they struggled with. Nora was such a sweet character who right from the start was just going through the motions of life, but not necessarily living. Once Nora met Airik, it was the moment that changed everything for her, she felt a deep connection to him, and seeing her feel so strongly about someone, and take care of them showed how much Nora loved Airik, and so much more. Airik was also someone who just followed the rules set before him, and lived the life of the warrior he was trained to be. Living a life that meant no love, no touches of any kind, and following orders. Airik falling for Nora was the best thing because, I could see how he gradually became so enamored with her, and especially protective of her. Airik was a being who couldn’t fathom wanting a person so much as he wanted Nora, but once he gave into his feelings for her, GIRL IT WAS THE BEST THING EVER!
This story had as much spice as it had plot so, it was a well rounded story that kept me intrigued the whole way through. The spice in this book was passionate, hot, brimming with plenty of steam that I was blushing and swooning with the things Airik and Nora said to one another and the THINGS THEY DID TOGETHER! HOT! Airik was OBSESSED WITH NORA! So much so that he constantly loved touching her hair, always wanted her, HE WHIMPERED FOR HER YESSSS! And there was A LOT MORE AMAZING THINGS THAT AIRIK SAID AND DID IN THIS BOOK…he also called Nora…. A GOOD GIRL OMG! Yeah, the spice in this book was FANTASTIC! As much as I enjoyed the spice, I also enjoyed the ongoing plot of the book too. The whole time, I was wondering what would happen to Nora and Airik, and just saw I thought they’d figured things out, surprise twists came along that shook things up!!!! I found myself not only getting so emotionally attached to both Airik and Nora, but also to Lucky and I found myself CRYING! The things that happened later on in this story had me on the EDGE OF MY FREAKING SEAT! Genuinely so anxious to see what would happen next!!!!
As if you couldn’t already tell, this was a 5 star read. Nora and Airik story was the kind that made me feel all the emotional parts of their story, but also getting to know them on a deeper level. Nora and Airik were both unique in their own ways, and they wholeheartedly complimented each other perfectly. I loved the romance, the gentle way Airik was around Nora, but also how he couldn’t keep his hands off her because he cared about her so much. Nora was initially such a lonely person who had no desire to live in the world, but upon meeting Airik he ignited the passion inside her, and developed a strong love for both life and for him. To my sensitive, touched starved characters who only wanted to be loved, and cared for, Nora and Airik found each other, and I’m happy with the way their story currently stands. I’m excited to see how the next book will play out and the series if Perri makes more books in Nora and Airik’s story. Suffice it to say, I’m so happy for the wait as this book was not only a highly anticipated read for me, but the newest book to introduce me to my favorite characters and favorite author. HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!
*Thank you so much to Perri Torani for providing me an arc of this book, I greatly appreciate and overjoyed at this book I have been anticipating to read!
*Check content warnings before reading
Omg where do I bring with how much I LOVE this book? From the moment I came across Perri’s instagram account and saw some artwork she had commissioned for her book, and little snippets about it, I was so eager to read her book. With the great honor to arc read her book, it made my day to finally get a chance to read this amazing story. Nora and Airik’s story was such a fascinating one to read because, it showed two souls who were very much alone, and honestly craved for something they couldn’t quite put a name to. When meeting each other, Nora and Airik’s lives changed in ways they couldn’t possibly imagine and it was thrilling to see them grow closer as the story went on.
From Nora and Airik being sad boy/sad girl to forced proximity, an oath bound MMC, an MMC who quite literally was touch starved and an FMC who felt so alone among the humans she was previously with, there was a lot of interesting things when it came to these characters and their story. The thing that really caught my attention was seeing how Airik and Nora were from different worlds, and as they got to know each other they were able to learn new things as well as experience them. Since Airik was an oath bound Morzair, a warrior bound to not be touched, and live by other codes set before him, he had never really known the touch of another. To see Airik gradually and honestly quickly become so enthralled by Nora, it made him want to feel the touch of Nora’s skin, her lips, and want every single part of her for himself. Nora was similar in the way she couldn’t help but want to feel Airik in a way she has felt before, there was a sense of desire that ignited in her due to Airik. In addition, seeing such lonely souls find one another, Nora and Airik became each other’s happiness, peace, and support in a way they had always hoped for.
This story was filled with so many things that ranged from the darker realities Nora and Airik faced to a blossoming relationship that brought so much joy , to an intriguing plot line that got even more intense and fascinating as the story went. Nora and Airik’s story wasn’t just one of a human and an alien falling in love, it was also one that shed light on the difficulties they struggled with. Nora was such a sweet character who right from the start was just going through the motions of life, but not necessarily living. Once Nora met Airik, it was the moment that changed everything for her, she felt a deep connection to him, and seeing her feel so strongly about someone, and take care of them showed how much Nora loved Airik, and so much more. Airik was also someone who just followed the rules set before him, and lived the life of the warrior he was trained to be. Living a life that meant no love, no touches of any kind, and following orders. Airik falling for Nora was the best thing because, I could see how he gradually became so enamored with her, and especially protective of her. Airik was a being who couldn’t fathom wanting a person so much as he wanted Nora, but once he gave into his feelings for her, GIRL IT WAS THE BEST THING EVER!
This story had as much spice as it had plot so, it was a well rounded story that kept me intrigued the whole way through. The spice in this book was passionate, hot, brimming with plenty of steam that I was blushing and swooning with the things Airik and Nora said to one another and the THINGS THEY DID TOGETHER! HOT! Airik was OBSESSED WITH NORA! So much so that he constantly loved touching her hair, always wanted her, HE WHIMPERED FOR HER YESSSS! And there was A LOT MORE AMAZING THINGS THAT AIRIK SAID AND DID IN THIS BOOK…he also called Nora…. A GOOD GIRL OMG! Yeah, the spice in this book was FANTASTIC! As much as I enjoyed the spice, I also enjoyed the ongoing plot of the book too. The whole time, I was wondering what would happen to Nora and Airik, and just saw I thought they’d figured things out, surprise twists came along that shook things up!!!! I found myself not only getting so emotionally attached to both Airik and Nora, but also to Lucky and I found myself CRYING! The things that happened later on in this story had me on the EDGE OF MY FREAKING SEAT! Genuinely so anxious to see what would happen next!!!!
As if you couldn’t already tell, this was a 5 star read. Nora and Airik story was the kind that made me feel all the emotional parts of their story, but also getting to know them on a deeper level. Nora and Airik were both unique in their own ways, and they wholeheartedly complimented each other perfectly. I loved the romance, the gentle way Airik was around Nora, but also how he couldn’t keep his hands off her because he cared about her so much. Nora was initially such a lonely person who had no desire to live in the world, but upon meeting Airik he ignited the passion inside her, and developed a strong love for both life and for him. To my sensitive, touched starved characters who only wanted to be loved, and cared for, Nora and Airik found each other, and I’m happy with the way their story currently stands. I’m excited to see how the next book will play out and the series if Perri makes more books in Nora and Airik’s story. Suffice it to say, I’m so happy for the wait as this book was not only a highly anticipated read for me, but the newest book to introduce me to my favorite characters and favorite author. HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to the author for this eARC in exchange for my honest review!
I loved the fact this story touches on a lot of harder topics but it is done in such a beautiful way! You have themes of grief, depression and trauma that really play a huge role in our main characters and all that has happened to them. It really made Nora and Airik feel more real and their relationship and chemistry that much more fun to read! Plus, I really loved seeing the growth in both Nora and Airik throughout this story. They both have a lot of trauma and grief that they are dealing with from their past and both in their own ways. Nora is stuggling and has a lot of guilt and grief that she holds over what has happened in her past. My heart broke for her again and again just seeing how lost she is and how hopeless she really felt. It's something that I feel like anyone can relate to and just seeing her being vulnerable to Airik and him understanding and being there for her was just so beautiful to see. Plus then you have Airik who is dealing with his own oath that comes from his world and the politics behind his people and how much he struggles with it. He already feels like an outcast to his people with the fact he is "wild" but then has someone, like Nora, who really sees him and makes him feel things he has been told his whole life he shouldn't. It was so much fun to read that growth with them and just seeing their relationship grow from reluctant allies to a touch her and die type of vibe.
The only downside I had with this story was the fact it was a bit too long. The beginning portion - about 15-20% in - was just information overload to the point I was getting lost and had to keep re-reading things just to make sense of what was going on. It felt like we were given so much information and so much of this world all at once without really giving any context or explanation. The story starts in the past and then jumps to a more present time but also switches to a different POV and then jumps again to another timeline and it just got to the point where it was hard to keep things straight on who everyone was and what was happening. Then throughout the rest of the story things just kept getting over explained again and again to the point it was almost redundant, especially since a lot of it had already been established. I understand needing to help build the world and explain things to the reader but it felt like a lot of that should have been done in the beginning to really help cement the different aspects, rules, and politics instead of it continuing to happen again and again even after the 50% mark of the story.
With that said, I still did really enjoy this story and had a fun time reading!
If you like:
- Human FMC
- Alien Warrior MMC
- Forced Proximity
- Forbidden Love
- Touch starved characters
- Grief, Trauma & depression representation
- Animal sidekick
- Touch her and die
- Older FMC (in her 30s)
- Dual POV
- Spiceee
This is a story you should check out!
I loved the fact this story touches on a lot of harder topics but it is done in such a beautiful way! You have themes of grief, depression and trauma that really play a huge role in our main characters and all that has happened to them. It really made Nora and Airik feel more real and their relationship and chemistry that much more fun to read! Plus, I really loved seeing the growth in both Nora and Airik throughout this story. They both have a lot of trauma and grief that they are dealing with from their past and both in their own ways. Nora is stuggling and has a lot of guilt and grief that she holds over what has happened in her past. My heart broke for her again and again just seeing how lost she is and how hopeless she really felt. It's something that I feel like anyone can relate to and just seeing her being vulnerable to Airik and him understanding and being there for her was just so beautiful to see. Plus then you have Airik who is dealing with his own oath that comes from his world and the politics behind his people and how much he struggles with it. He already feels like an outcast to his people with the fact he is "wild" but then has someone, like Nora, who really sees him and makes him feel things he has been told his whole life he shouldn't. It was so much fun to read that growth with them and just seeing their relationship grow from reluctant allies to a touch her and die type of vibe.
The only downside I had with this story was the fact it was a bit too long. The beginning portion - about 15-20% in - was just information overload to the point I was getting lost and had to keep re-reading things just to make sense of what was going on. It felt like we were given so much information and so much of this world all at once without really giving any context or explanation. The story starts in the past and then jumps to a more present time but also switches to a different POV and then jumps again to another timeline and it just got to the point where it was hard to keep things straight on who everyone was and what was happening. Then throughout the rest of the story things just kept getting over explained again and again to the point it was almost redundant, especially since a lot of it had already been established. I understand needing to help build the world and explain things to the reader but it felt like a lot of that should have been done in the beginning to really help cement the different aspects, rules, and politics instead of it continuing to happen again and again even after the 50% mark of the story.
With that said, I still did really enjoy this story and had a fun time reading!
If you like:
- Human FMC
- Alien Warrior MMC
- Forced Proximity
- Forbidden Love
- Touch starved characters
- Grief, Trauma & depression representation
- Animal sidekick
- Touch her and die
- Older FMC (in her 30s)
- Dual POV
- Spiceee
This is a story you should check out!
Review of advance copy received from Auteur
Thank you so much to the Author and The Need Fam for having me as an ARC reader 🩵
✨ ARC review:
This book is AMAZING. I'm SO happy I applied to TNF arc call!!
The world building is amazing, I really loved it, with the whole alien corporation (is that the right term?) and society organisation! And the Morazir's training and conditioning. (Am I the only one who felt some Palpatine's wibes?)
But I need to talk about Airik and Nora's love story. It's so so beautiful. How it grows from distrustful (the crashed human, alone on a dangerous/toxic planet, to the mercy of a giant (yet pretty) alien who barely speaks her language, and angry-reacts each time she moves too fast?) to a healing and life altering love (Ch. 52 🥹)? I need more of them both!! (And - I need to be honest - more of the spicy scenes, they were amazing hehe)
And I need book 2. I need more of Lucky - my favourite character - and Torren!
Bonus points for the language barrier depiction, and all the scenes where they communicate and teach each other words. I honestly loved these scenes so so much 🩵
If you like forced proximity, possessive MMC (and FMC, she just lacks the physical strength of Airik to be as possessive), touch her and die, and found family, this book is for you!!
The Wildborn is book 1 of the Starborn series, but acts as a kind of standalone. The romance plot finishes (that's my impression at least) and the book ends on a kind of stable state. The intrigue plot, however, is far from finished (and I need book 2).
Here are some of my favourite quotes:
🩵 "There was a reason the word love had been lost to progress" -- welcome to the Veynari
🩵 "If I see you on the other side in less than seventy years, know I’ll be very upset, Nora Shaw."
🩵 "What was anaphylactic shock? Was it a pleasant experience?" -- oh Airik, if only you knew...never mind 👀
🩵 "Airik realized there wasn’t much he wouldn’t do for the little human who’d fallen from the sky."
🩵 "The tube’s skin broke easily between his teeth, releasing a lumpy, dense center. Salty. Tangy. Disgusting. [...] he forced himself to swallow, willing to die by cheese." -- THANK YOU FOR HAVING A MC WHO, LIKE ME, DOESN'T LIKE CHEESE!! Finally an accurate depiction of this abomination (he's talking about cheese tortellini btw)
🩵 " "I’ll do to you in my dreams what I wish I could do right now.” " -- 👀
🩵 "His beautiful gift from the stars—fallen from the sky like a wish wrapped in ruin and delusional hope." -- more commonly known as a shooting star 🌠
🩵 " "You do not have to be okay with me,” he whispered. “It is not what makes my heart full with you." " -- what we all deserve to hear 🥹
✨ ARC review:
This book is AMAZING. I'm SO happy I applied to TNF arc call!!
The world building is amazing, I really loved it, with the whole alien corporation (is that the right term?) and society organisation! And the Morazir's training and conditioning. (Am I the only one who felt some Palpatine's wibes?)
But I need to talk about Airik and Nora's love story. It's so so beautiful. How it grows from distrustful (the crashed human, alone on a dangerous/toxic planet, to the mercy of a giant (yet pretty) alien who barely speaks her language, and angry-reacts each time she moves too fast?) to a healing and life altering love (Ch. 52 🥹)? I need more of them both!! (And - I need to be honest - more of the spicy scenes, they were amazing hehe)
And I need book 2. I need more of Lucky - my favourite character - and Torren!
Bonus points for the language barrier depiction, and all the scenes where they communicate and teach each other words. I honestly loved these scenes so so much 🩵
If you like forced proximity, possessive MMC (and FMC, she just lacks the physical strength of Airik to be as possessive), touch her and die, and found family, this book is for you!!
The Wildborn is book 1 of the Starborn series, but acts as a kind of standalone. The romance plot finishes (that's my impression at least) and the book ends on a kind of stable state. The intrigue plot, however, is far from finished (and I need book 2).
Here are some of my favourite quotes:
🩵 "There was a reason the word love had been lost to progress" -- welcome to the Veynari
🩵 "If I see you on the other side in less than seventy years, know I’ll be very upset, Nora Shaw."
🩵 "What was anaphylactic shock? Was it a pleasant experience?" -- oh Airik, if only you knew...never mind 👀
🩵 "Airik realized there wasn’t much he wouldn’t do for the little human who’d fallen from the sky."
🩵 "The tube’s skin broke easily between his teeth, releasing a lumpy, dense center. Salty. Tangy. Disgusting. [...] he forced himself to swallow, willing to die by cheese." -- THANK YOU FOR HAVING A MC WHO, LIKE ME, DOESN'T LIKE CHEESE!! Finally an accurate depiction of this abomination (he's talking about cheese tortellini btw)
🩵 " "I’ll do to you in my dreams what I wish I could do right now.” " -- 👀
🩵 "His beautiful gift from the stars—fallen from the sky like a wish wrapped in ruin and delusional hope." -- more commonly known as a shooting star 🌠
🩵 " "You do not have to be okay with me,” he whispered. “It is not what makes my heart full with you." " -- what we all deserve to hear 🥹
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
Just finished the ARC copy of Wildborn, firstly so thankful to get early access to a book I have been on the countdown for, for months! And it didnt disappoint.
This is a mammoth of a book, nearly 700 pages. But Perri keeps you hanging on, on every page. With a complex world (reminding me of Halo series), complex emotional characters, a different planet and world order and much more.
The wider characters are fun and engaging. The FMC has had a tragic life but with him she shines bright again. He is known only as a 'wild' weapon and known only darkness and pain. Keeping his 'vows' while with her proves harder and harder.
This book has you from the opening chapter with the backstory. By page 44 I knew this book was worth the wait! Excited to see where this seriea goes, with standalone books already promised.
You like your MMC with massive 'look or touch her and die vibes', sweet just for her, will try her 'disgusting' earth foods and massive on hair care.... then Airik is for you!
Already pre-ordered my physical copy of the book.
Book out: 28th July
Book quote:
“For the rest of this life, you’re mine. If there’s an eternity after, you’re mine for all of it. If there are more universes than this one, I’ll find you everywhere—and you’ll be mine in all of themust finished the ARC copy of Wildborn, firstly so thankful to get early access to a book I have been on the countdown for this for months! And it didnt disappoint.
This is a mammoth of a book, nearly 700 pages. But Perri keeps you hanging on, on every page. With a complex world (reminding me of Halo series), complex emotional characters, a different planet and world order and much more.
The wider characters are fun and engaging. The FMC has had a tragic life but with him she shines bright again. He is known only as a 'wild' weapon and known only darkness and pain. Keeping his 'vows' while with her proves harder and harder.
This book has you from the opening chapter with the backstory. By page 44 I knew this book was worth the wait! Excited to see where this series goes, with standalone books already promised.
You like your MMC with massive 'look or touch her and die vibes', sweet just for her, will try her 'disgusting' earth foods and massive on hair care.... then Airik is for you!
Already pre-ordered my physical copy of the book.
Book out: 28th July
Book quote:
“For the rest of this life, you’re mine. If there’s an eternity after, you’re mine for all of it. If there are more universes than this one, I’ll find you everywhere—and you’ll be mine in all of them.”
Just finished the ARC copy of Wildborn, firstly so thankful to get early access to a book I have been on the countdown for, for months! And it didnt disappoint.
This is a mammoth of a book, nearly 700 pages. But Perri keeps you hanging on, on every page. With a complex world (reminding me of Halo series), complex emotional characters, a different planet and world order and much more.
The wider characters are fun and engaging. The FMC has had a tragic life but with him she shines bright again. He is known only as a 'wild' weapon and known only darkness and pain. Keeping his 'vows' while with her proves harder and harder.
This book has you from the opening chapter with the backstory. By page 44 I knew this book was worth the wait! Excited to see where this seriea goes, with standalone books already promised.
You like your MMC with massive 'look or touch her and die vibes', sweet just for her, will try her 'disgusting' earth foods and massive on hair care.... then Airik is for you!
Already pre-ordered my physical copy of the book.
Book out: 28th July
Book quote:
“For the rest of this life, you’re mine. If there’s an eternity after, you’re mine for all of it. If there are more universes than this one, I’ll find you everywhere—and you’ll be mine in all of themust finished the ARC copy of Wildborn, firstly so thankful to get early access to a book I have been on the countdown for this for months! And it didnt disappoint.
This is a mammoth of a book, nearly 700 pages. But Perri keeps you hanging on, on every page. With a complex world (reminding me of Halo series), complex emotional characters, a different planet and world order and much more.
The wider characters are fun and engaging. The FMC has had a tragic life but with him she shines bright again. He is known only as a 'wild' weapon and known only darkness and pain. Keeping his 'vows' while with her proves harder and harder.
This book has you from the opening chapter with the backstory. By page 44 I knew this book was worth the wait! Excited to see where this series goes, with standalone books already promised.
You like your MMC with massive 'look or touch her and die vibes', sweet just for her, will try her 'disgusting' earth foods and massive on hair care.... then Airik is for you!
Already pre-ordered my physical copy of the book.
Book out: 28th July
Book quote:
“For the rest of this life, you’re mine. If there’s an eternity after, you’re mine for all of it. If there are more universes than this one, I’ll find you everywhere—and you’ll be mine in all of them.”
Review of advance copy
I read an Advanced Reader Copy ~ I could barely read more than a page with out NEEDING to highlight and capture the beautiful Quotes and breath taking Romance that makes this a 5 Stars Novel.
"What a terrible thing it was to love. To want someone so much more than life could ever allow, beyond the boundaries of body and mind"
" His breath stopped, at the mercy of a women who could only be his if everything else burned."
I am obsessed!!!! This book is easily now one of my all time favorites! 🩷
One of my favorite things about the couple was that he is OBSESSED with her hair in the sweetest way. Our man is 7 feet tall and he would lightly tug on her braid to have her look as him.
"He towered above her." "Fuck, he was beautiful." "He caught the rope of her hair and tugged- not hard. Just enough to make her look at him again."
~ YEARNING~ 🤭
Romance books MUST have yearning. Period. The yearning is written so uniquely, it feels very fresh and alive.
"Hold me tighter." "You are Mine!" "Keep looking at me... I like it." " Closer... I want your heart against mine."
"If she told him the truth about how she found his entire existence- his words, his spirt, his body and face- inescapable"
" Madness. Thick and hot. Irresistible and consuming. He'd die here. Either from having her or from not."
~ Spice ~ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
We are all here for the spice! We are spicy girlies and this book delivers. This is a 'my husband enjoyed this book, but didn't read it' book. The build up to the spicy chapters was done so well. I was already invested in the relationship and was DYING for them to get together. I did not find the spice to be over powering of the flow of the story. I would also say that they ARE the story.
"He'd spanked her. To shut her up. And she'd loved it." " Is that all that's needed to command humans? Height? " " Fuck she thought. He was going to make her come right here with kisses and words and bites."
The character art is delectable and easily sells the book on its own! 🤤
~The Romance was so written so beautiful that I was in tears. I loved the MMC and FMC so much that I already miss them! I have pre ordered my physical copy to support a new favorite author. I am excited to read future works written by Perri Torani!💙
This novel feels like a hidden gem 💎
"What a terrible thing it was to love. To want someone so much more than life could ever allow, beyond the boundaries of body and mind"
" His breath stopped, at the mercy of a women who could only be his if everything else burned."
I am obsessed!!!! This book is easily now one of my all time favorites! 🩷
One of my favorite things about the couple was that he is OBSESSED with her hair in the sweetest way. Our man is 7 feet tall and he would lightly tug on her braid to have her look as him.
"He towered above her." "Fuck, he was beautiful." "He caught the rope of her hair and tugged- not hard. Just enough to make her look at him again."
~ YEARNING~ 🤭
Romance books MUST have yearning. Period. The yearning is written so uniquely, it feels very fresh and alive.
"Hold me tighter." "You are Mine!" "Keep looking at me... I like it." " Closer... I want your heart against mine."
"If she told him the truth about how she found his entire existence- his words, his spirt, his body and face- inescapable"
" Madness. Thick and hot. Irresistible and consuming. He'd die here. Either from having her or from not."
~ Spice ~ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
We are all here for the spice! We are spicy girlies and this book delivers. This is a 'my husband enjoyed this book, but didn't read it' book. The build up to the spicy chapters was done so well. I was already invested in the relationship and was DYING for them to get together. I did not find the spice to be over powering of the flow of the story. I would also say that they ARE the story.
"He'd spanked her. To shut her up. And she'd loved it." " Is that all that's needed to command humans? Height? " " Fuck she thought. He was going to make her come right here with kisses and words and bites."
The character art is delectable and easily sells the book on its own! 🤤
~The Romance was so written so beautiful that I was in tears. I loved the MMC and FMC so much that I already miss them! I have pre ordered my physical copy to support a new favorite author. I am excited to read future works written by Perri Torani!💙
This novel feels like a hidden gem 💎
Review of advance copy received from Author
This single handedly landed as one of my favorite reads of the year.
I cannot thank Perri enough for blessing me with an arc copy of this book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I truly don’t know how this is Perri’s debut novel. There’s just no way. The Wildborn is beyond words. It was so beautiful, heartbreakingly sad, yet full of hope and love. For long books, it’s often difficult to not have things feel like they’re being dragged on or have irrelevant chapters/scenes. That is NOT the case with this book. Every single scene felt like it was necessary to the plot and the characters. Those 600+ pages flew by so fast, not only because I couldn’t put the book down, but also because it just all flowed so smoothly together. The world building, the tension, the imagry and emotions being conveyed were so well done that I could clearly feel and picture it in my mind.
Airik and Nora… god. They are a beautifully tragic match made in heaven. Both filled with so much grief and trauma from the past, yet those things made them love so much harder. They both went through hell and back so many times, faced the worst that one could deal with, yet carried it with grace. It was apart of them, rather than being all that they are. Airik had such a poetic way with words that it literally made my heart swell. Some of the things he said were truly some of the most romantic words I’ve ever heard. I need an big, strong, scarred alien man like Airik BAD. And Nora? I adored her. She was extremely brave and handled everything thrown at her like a champ. Just like Airik, she loves FIERCLY. Special shoutout to the goodest boy in the world, Lucky the Ooshi. I loved him so much. The bestest alien fox dog thing a person could ask for.
Truly a standing ovation (and ovulation because Airik is FIIIIINE) for Perri Torani. I will consume any book that you write from this day forward
(please let the next book be Liv and Torren. I beg.)
I cannot thank Perri enough for blessing me with an arc copy of this book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I truly don’t know how this is Perri’s debut novel. There’s just no way. The Wildborn is beyond words. It was so beautiful, heartbreakingly sad, yet full of hope and love. For long books, it’s often difficult to not have things feel like they’re being dragged on or have irrelevant chapters/scenes. That is NOT the case with this book. Every single scene felt like it was necessary to the plot and the characters. Those 600+ pages flew by so fast, not only because I couldn’t put the book down, but also because it just all flowed so smoothly together. The world building, the tension, the imagry and emotions being conveyed were so well done that I could clearly feel and picture it in my mind.
Airik and Nora… god. They are a beautifully tragic match made in heaven. Both filled with so much grief and trauma from the past, yet those things made them love so much harder. They both went through hell and back so many times, faced the worst that one could deal with, yet carried it with grace. It was apart of them, rather than being all that they are. Airik had such a poetic way with words that it literally made my heart swell. Some of the things he said were truly some of the most romantic words I’ve ever heard. I need an big, strong, scarred alien man like Airik BAD. And Nora? I adored her. She was extremely brave and handled everything thrown at her like a champ. Just like Airik, she loves FIERCLY. Special shoutout to the goodest boy in the world, Lucky the Ooshi. I loved him so much. The bestest alien fox dog thing a person could ask for.
Truly a standing ovation (and ovulation because Airik is FIIIIINE) for Perri Torani. I will consume any book that you write from this day forward
(please let the next book be Liv and Torren. I beg.)
June 20, 2026
A spicy alien romantasy where they’re trapped on a planet together and he breaks all of his rules for her.
You start off following the MMC through the start of his life, learning a bit of the human language from his dad and growing up loved in a system that doesn’t allow that, by parents who end up dying because of their love. Years later he is one of the few warriors to completely follow their rules even if he is wild, and he’s sent on a mission to destroy a dying planet that his leaders built. But once he arrives, something goes wrong with his ship and he ends up trapped, and at the same time, another ship with a human woman crashes there. With minimal understanding of her language, they’re able to communicate and survive together. The FMC was fleeing her space colony after it came under attack and was saved by her uncle, only instead of ending up on mars, she crash landed on a unknown planet and was saved by an alien she’s not sure can trust. They must work together to survive and find help before time runs out.
I really enjoy an animal side kick so of course this book having one was one of my favorite characters, especially when he was sassy. I also liked that we got some background to both characters and the struggles that they’ve been through in their lives and how coming together and understanding each other allows them to open up like they never have before and work through their issues. There was plenty of tension between the pair as the book continued and of course he follows his own rules as long as he can but she might be the one to finally break him. Overall it was a fun space fantasy and it seems well set up to have more stories in this immense universe it set up. My rating 4.5/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
You start off following the MMC through the start of his life, learning a bit of the human language from his dad and growing up loved in a system that doesn’t allow that, by parents who end up dying because of their love. Years later he is one of the few warriors to completely follow their rules even if he is wild, and he’s sent on a mission to destroy a dying planet that his leaders built. But once he arrives, something goes wrong with his ship and he ends up trapped, and at the same time, another ship with a human woman crashes there. With minimal understanding of her language, they’re able to communicate and survive together. The FMC was fleeing her space colony after it came under attack and was saved by her uncle, only instead of ending up on mars, she crash landed on a unknown planet and was saved by an alien she’s not sure can trust. They must work together to survive and find help before time runs out.
I really enjoy an animal side kick so of course this book having one was one of my favorite characters, especially when he was sassy. I also liked that we got some background to both characters and the struggles that they’ve been through in their lives and how coming together and understanding each other allows them to open up like they never have before and work through their issues. There was plenty of tension between the pair as the book continued and of course he follows his own rules as long as he can but she might be the one to finally break him. Overall it was a fun space fantasy and it seems well set up to have more stories in this immense universe it set up. My rating 4.5/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
June 19, 2026
Thanks to Perri Torani for the opportunity to read this ARC.
At its heart, this is a story about two profoundly lonely people finding connection in a world that has taught them to live without it. What could have been a simple romance instead becomes an exploration of identity, belonging, sacrifice, and the ways love can challenge everything we think we know about ourselves.
What stayed with me most was the emotional depth of Nora and Airik’s relationship. Their bond unfolds naturally, built on trust, curiosity, and a shared longing for something neither of them could fully name before they met. Airik, bound by duty and tradition, and Nora, disconnected from both herself and the world around her, bring out something transformative in one another. Watching them learn, grow, and ultimately choose each other felt both tender and earned.
The world itself is equally compelling. Beneath the romance is a thoughtful examination of control, isolation, and the cost of conformity. The setting blends science fiction and fantasy elements in a way that feels immersive rather than overwhelming, creating a backdrop that raises meaningful questions about humanity, freedom, and what makes life worth living.
I also appreciated how seamlessly the supporting cast and larger conflicts were woven into the story. The narrative never loses sight of its central relationship, but it understands that great romances exist within larger worlds—and those worlds matter.
By the end, I found myself deeply invested not only in Nora and Airik, but in the future of this universe as a whole. The Wildborn is a debut that balances heart, atmosphere, and emotional resonance with remarkable confidence.
A thoughtful, immersive read that lingers long after the final page. SOLID ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
At its heart, this is a story about two profoundly lonely people finding connection in a world that has taught them to live without it. What could have been a simple romance instead becomes an exploration of identity, belonging, sacrifice, and the ways love can challenge everything we think we know about ourselves.
What stayed with me most was the emotional depth of Nora and Airik’s relationship. Their bond unfolds naturally, built on trust, curiosity, and a shared longing for something neither of them could fully name before they met. Airik, bound by duty and tradition, and Nora, disconnected from both herself and the world around her, bring out something transformative in one another. Watching them learn, grow, and ultimately choose each other felt both tender and earned.
The world itself is equally compelling. Beneath the romance is a thoughtful examination of control, isolation, and the cost of conformity. The setting blends science fiction and fantasy elements in a way that feels immersive rather than overwhelming, creating a backdrop that raises meaningful questions about humanity, freedom, and what makes life worth living.
I also appreciated how seamlessly the supporting cast and larger conflicts were woven into the story. The narrative never loses sight of its central relationship, but it understands that great romances exist within larger worlds—and those worlds matter.
By the end, I found myself deeply invested not only in Nora and Airik, but in the future of this universe as a whole. The Wildborn is a debut that balances heart, atmosphere, and emotional resonance with remarkable confidence.
A thoughtful, immersive read that lingers long after the final page. SOLID ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐ rounded up because I'm so obsessed!
I'm not normally a sci-fi or alien romance person, but the teasers for this book hooked me. And the book certainly delivered on all the promises made by the character art.
The world felt not only immersive but also familiar. This is a place where technology and "progress" are weaponized, supposedly in the name of unity, but imsociety is heartbreakingly divided and individuals isolated from love, affection, art, playfulness, passion -- anything that makes life worth living.
In this context, the MCs are stranded together on a planet scheduled for destruction. The slow burn tension had me yelling, "KISS," and the character arcs were complex and emotional. The way Nora found her inner strength was moving, and Airik deserves to be in the book boyfriend Hall of Fame. Their fight to be together comes at several high costs and their happy ending is not simple or easy, showing a realistic look at what happiness looks like in a time of tyranny.
The side characters were folded in so smoothly, already with personalities and arcs I can't wait to explore more. I. am already hungry from what I think will be the focus on Book 2.
Although there were aspects of the writing that felt repetitive or that just weren't my personal taste (some of the spicy stuff, mostly), this turned out to be one of my favorite reads of the year. I think readers who normally enjoy romantasy (as opposed to sci-fi) with substantial world building would enjoy this story. It is certainly romance forward, but the context of political maneuvering is significant and compelling.
Waiting on the edge of my spaceship for Books 2 & 3!
I'm not normally a sci-fi or alien romance person, but the teasers for this book hooked me. And the book certainly delivered on all the promises made by the character art.
The world felt not only immersive but also familiar. This is a place where technology and "progress" are weaponized, supposedly in the name of unity, but imsociety is heartbreakingly divided and individuals isolated from love, affection, art, playfulness, passion -- anything that makes life worth living.
In this context, the MCs are stranded together on a planet scheduled for destruction. The slow burn tension had me yelling, "KISS," and the character arcs were complex and emotional. The way Nora found her inner strength was moving, and Airik deserves to be in the book boyfriend Hall of Fame. Their fight to be together comes at several high costs and their happy ending is not simple or easy, showing a realistic look at what happiness looks like in a time of tyranny.
The side characters were folded in so smoothly, already with personalities and arcs I can't wait to explore more. I. am already hungry from what I think will be the focus on Book 2.
Although there were aspects of the writing that felt repetitive or that just weren't my personal taste (some of the spicy stuff, mostly), this turned out to be one of my favorite reads of the year. I think readers who normally enjoy romantasy (as opposed to sci-fi) with substantial world building would enjoy this story. It is certainly romance forward, but the context of political maneuvering is significant and compelling.
Waiting on the edge of my spaceship for Books 2 & 3!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can’t remember the last time I anticipated a book so eagerly, spent so long waiting to finally read it, and then found that it lived up to every expectation I’d built around it. This book was so much of what I expected and more. From world-building to romance, I was taken by surprise with this one.
I thought the world-building for this book was amazing and so unique. Despite the dangers they were facing, I wished I could be there alongside the characters and experience it for myself. And the whole alien/intergalactic space organization thingy gave major Star Wars vibes (a good thing to me lol) and lent a good deal of intrigue to focus on rather than just the romance, especially with Airik’s history and how he came to be. I knew with the prologue that this was going to be really interesting, and I wasn’t let down.
We were also promised an achingly tender yet rocky love story, and it delivered, with an MMC who is a tortured hero-type struggling internally and an FMC who is emotionally obliterated by a series of tragic events in her life. I was so taken by their story. By the time I made it to the end chapters of this book, I was tearing up just with how devoted they were to each other. And, if you read this and love it as I do, you’ll know what I’m talking about when I say my heart was breaking in my chest for Airik towards the end. Then the epilogue with the picture... UGH, my heart.
I loved this story so much. I will 100% be reading the next ones. I can’t wait to see how this world and plot expand further, and I definitely look forward to any future romances this series may cook up!!
I thought the world-building for this book was amazing and so unique. Despite the dangers they were facing, I wished I could be there alongside the characters and experience it for myself. And the whole alien/intergalactic space organization thingy gave major Star Wars vibes (a good thing to me lol) and lent a good deal of intrigue to focus on rather than just the romance, especially with Airik’s history and how he came to be. I knew with the prologue that this was going to be really interesting, and I wasn’t let down.
We were also promised an achingly tender yet rocky love story, and it delivered, with an MMC who is a tortured hero-type struggling internally and an FMC who is emotionally obliterated by a series of tragic events in her life. I was so taken by their story. By the time I made it to the end chapters of this book, I was tearing up just with how devoted they were to each other. And, if you read this and love it as I do, you’ll know what I’m talking about when I say my heart was breaking in my chest for Airik towards the end. Then the epilogue with the picture... UGH, my heart.
I loved this story so much. I will 100% be reading the next ones. I can’t wait to see how this world and plot expand further, and I definitely look forward to any future romances this series may cook up!!
June 20, 2026
This spicy, dark alien romance is one of my top 2026 reads!!
I happily stumbled across Perri whilst scrolling instagram and saw Airik and Nora’s (MMC & FMC) artwork + the tropes and just KNEW I had to have this book.
- Forced proximity
- Sad boy X sad girl
- Found family
- Forbidden love
- What is “kiss” ? 🤤
- Touch-starved
- Oathbound MMC
- Dual POV
- As much Plot as Spice
** Extra points with **
Older FMC | Touch her and die | Cute animal sidekick |
Firstly, WOW, if I didn’t know I would not think it was a debut novel 😍
ALLLLLLL the emotions were felt in this book. I was sad with Airik and Nora through their grief, their pasts and their trauma but the way these darker themes were written explored them really well and made it very easy to relate to and love these characters very early on. As a person who has been very fortunate, I’ve not experienced a lot of grief but when an author writes it really well you live through it with their characters and I definitely felt that through Airik and Nora’s story!!
The giddiness, the blushing and then the absolute silent screaming and kicking my feet whilst binging at night through the spice scenes and the lead up to it was ALL there! Airik and Nora are HOT and the spice was spicin’ 🌶️
I was physically unable to put this down to the point I binged until 4am. I wanted more at every turn and I found my eyes flicking down to the page number and then freaking out knowing I was getting closer and closer to the end of the book because I busted wanted more !!
If you want a 5 ⭐️ Sci-fi Alien romance book with spicy spice this HAS to be at the top your TBR or you are missing out !!
I happily stumbled across Perri whilst scrolling instagram and saw Airik and Nora’s (MMC & FMC) artwork + the tropes and just KNEW I had to have this book.
- Forced proximity
- Sad boy X sad girl
- Found family
- Forbidden love
- What is “kiss” ? 🤤
- Touch-starved
- Oathbound MMC
- Dual POV
- As much Plot as Spice
** Extra points with **
Older FMC | Touch her and die | Cute animal sidekick |
Firstly, WOW, if I didn’t know I would not think it was a debut novel 😍
ALLLLLLL the emotions were felt in this book. I was sad with Airik and Nora through their grief, their pasts and their trauma but the way these darker themes were written explored them really well and made it very easy to relate to and love these characters very early on. As a person who has been very fortunate, I’ve not experienced a lot of grief but when an author writes it really well you live through it with their characters and I definitely felt that through Airik and Nora’s story!!
The giddiness, the blushing and then the absolute silent screaming and kicking my feet whilst binging at night through the spice scenes and the lead up to it was ALL there! Airik and Nora are HOT and the spice was spicin’ 🌶️
I was physically unable to put this down to the point I binged until 4am. I wanted more at every turn and I found my eyes flicking down to the page number and then freaking out knowing I was getting closer and closer to the end of the book because I busted wanted more !!
If you want a 5 ⭐️ Sci-fi Alien romance book with spicy spice this HAS to be at the top your TBR or you are missing out !!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🫑
Honestly, I was expecting alien smut. I mean I got that too but this book has so much depth and emotion. These characters feel things so deeply and have been through the absolute blender of life’s shitty situations. It’s written beautifully, you truly understand what these characters are going through as it happens. And you feel it. Every tear, every laugh, every gasp, everything. It’s a stunning story of love irregardless of not feeling worthy or being broken. It’s about being loved despite of it. The world Perri has written is brutal, beautiful, harsh and thrilling. And the action and suspense is so well done. And it’s pretty realistic in how I imagine people would react irl. I’m really looking forward to reading more from this author. I love that the “ending” of the book is not very typical. There is lots of potential there and I for one am salivating for it!!!! Ps Perri…. I’m still mad because you know… but you said it will all be okay… so ima trust you . Pps, that flower scene nearly ended me 😭
Favourite quotes:
“Leave your hand where it is ,” he said. “Let it be mine. For a little while.”
“Lucky and I have become friends, too. We want the same thing.” He managed a very small smile. “He shows me what tried to hurt you. I kill it.”
“Don’t hide from me,” he said. “You starve my eyes when you do.”
“There is no light of you are not where my eyes can have you.”
(There are so many more but my fingers got tired from typing 🤣)
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🫑
Honestly, I was expecting alien smut. I mean I got that too but this book has so much depth and emotion. These characters feel things so deeply and have been through the absolute blender of life’s shitty situations. It’s written beautifully, you truly understand what these characters are going through as it happens. And you feel it. Every tear, every laugh, every gasp, everything. It’s a stunning story of love irregardless of not feeling worthy or being broken. It’s about being loved despite of it. The world Perri has written is brutal, beautiful, harsh and thrilling. And the action and suspense is so well done. And it’s pretty realistic in how I imagine people would react irl. I’m really looking forward to reading more from this author. I love that the “ending” of the book is not very typical. There is lots of potential there and I for one am salivating for it!!!! Ps Perri…. I’m still mad because you know… but you said it will all be okay… so ima trust you . Pps, that flower scene nearly ended me 😭
Favourite quotes:
“Leave your hand where it is ,” he said. “Let it be mine. For a little while.”
“Lucky and I have become friends, too. We want the same thing.” He managed a very small smile. “He shows me what tried to hurt you. I kill it.”
“Don’t hide from me,” he said. “You starve my eyes when you do.”
“There is no light of you are not where my eyes can have you.”
(There are so many more but my fingers got tired from typing 🤣)
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gataca meets space opera romance in THE BEST way!
Over the years, I have completed a number of ARC reads, some of which I've greatly enjoyed. But The Wildborn absolutely consumed me.
This sci-fi alien romance, a powerful debut for the author, was so exquisitely and intentionally constructed. There is a satisfying balance of emotional intelligence, humor, social commentary, and romance. It will be a favorite read for a wide range of adult audiences, and leave no one wanting.
SOME SPOILERS AHEAD, be advised:
One of the reasons I love dystopian and dark fantasy writing is how they study and deliver commentary on current events and social structures. Wildborn does this, and yet subverts the expected sci-fi narrative of characters disappearing into the vastness of space with their chosen family and refusing to engage with the unjust systems that created their pain in the first place. For most of us, we can't fully escape the world we live in. Having to navigate the establishment, with good and bad so deeply interwoven that they can't be untangled, all while pursuing love and a future worth fighting for, is much more allegorically accurate and leaves the reader feeling as inspired and cautiously hopeful as the characters.
This isn't just an entertaining read you finish and forget. This is a summons to reach for whatever light you can find, refusing to succumb to a dark world. And, in so doing, allowing your light to reach a little farther.
Over the years, I have completed a number of ARC reads, some of which I've greatly enjoyed. But The Wildborn absolutely consumed me.
This sci-fi alien romance, a powerful debut for the author, was so exquisitely and intentionally constructed. There is a satisfying balance of emotional intelligence, humor, social commentary, and romance. It will be a favorite read for a wide range of adult audiences, and leave no one wanting.
SOME SPOILERS AHEAD, be advised:
One of the reasons I love dystopian and dark fantasy writing is how they study and deliver commentary on current events and social structures. Wildborn does this, and yet subverts the expected sci-fi narrative of characters disappearing into the vastness of space with their chosen family and refusing to engage with the unjust systems that created their pain in the first place. For most of us, we can't fully escape the world we live in. Having to navigate the establishment, with good and bad so deeply interwoven that they can't be untangled, all while pursuing love and a future worth fighting for, is much more allegorically accurate and leaves the reader feeling as inspired and cautiously hopeful as the characters.
This isn't just an entertaining read you finish and forget. This is a summons to reach for whatever light you can find, refusing to succumb to a dark world. And, in so doing, allowing your light to reach a little farther.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, the amount of yearning this book has…perfect. This is a sci-fi romance between an alien solider and a human woman. He is bound to an oath to remain untouched, untaken and unconquered. I loveee an unfeeling MMC that eventually breaks for the FMC.
There is detailed world building and the beginning is a bit slow but once the characters meet, it’s fireworks. They are stranded on an abandoned planet each crashing in their own ships. Nora isn’t even supposed to be there - her shuttle had an entirely different target before crashing. He finds her unconscious in her craft and takes her back to his ship reluctantly. Airik has never seen a human and is fascinated by Nora. He has learned about them and can speak broken English.
Both of these characters are broken by their life circumstances but they ultimately save each other. The amount of yearning and emotional turmoil is TOP TIER. Airik wants her but his oath forbids him from having her, making every interaction between them so angsty!
This is a high stakes sci fi romance with hurt/comfort, reluctant protector, virgin MMC, dual POV and two wounded characters. The romance is a slow burn and so well done! The spice is amazing and plentyyy of hot steamy moments. Airik is a man that loves to 👅 phew 😮💨
Thank you so much for the gifted copy of the book, The Nerd Fam and author! I absolutely loved it!
There is detailed world building and the beginning is a bit slow but once the characters meet, it’s fireworks. They are stranded on an abandoned planet each crashing in their own ships. Nora isn’t even supposed to be there - her shuttle had an entirely different target before crashing. He finds her unconscious in her craft and takes her back to his ship reluctantly. Airik has never seen a human and is fascinated by Nora. He has learned about them and can speak broken English.
Both of these characters are broken by their life circumstances but they ultimately save each other. The amount of yearning and emotional turmoil is TOP TIER. Airik wants her but his oath forbids him from having her, making every interaction between them so angsty!
This is a high stakes sci fi romance with hurt/comfort, reluctant protector, virgin MMC, dual POV and two wounded characters. The romance is a slow burn and so well done! The spice is amazing and plentyyy of hot steamy moments. Airik is a man that loves to 👅 phew 😮💨
Thank you so much for the gifted copy of the book, The Nerd Fam and author! I absolutely loved it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Wildborn was easily one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and I can enthusiastically say it lived up to every bit of that anticipation!
I would've waited six more months for this book and been completely happy about it because it was so, so worth the wait.
I adored this story, these characters, and the journey these MCs went on to find their HEA. The forced proximity, the angst, the yearning... it all worked for me.
I can't even fully express the roller coaster of emotions this book put me through. One minute I was completely heartbroken for them, and the next I was overjoyed for them... then back to being heartbroken again 😂 Just repeat that cycle for infinity. I went through it 😅 stresssss!!!!
I laughed, I cried, I kicked my feet, the spice was perfection, and OMG... Lucky 😭 One of my absolute favorite parts of this story.
I'm also completely heartbroken over one particular character and am dying to know what happens to him next. Please tell me he's getting his own book because I need answers immediately!! Also wondering about another couple we met in this book and if they'll get their own story too👀
I already had high expectations going into this one, but Perri absolutely knocked her debut out of the park. I'm so excited to read literally anything she writes next.
Perri, I'm so proud of you and so incredibly happy for you. ❤️
I would've waited six more months for this book and been completely happy about it because it was so, so worth the wait.
I adored this story, these characters, and the journey these MCs went on to find their HEA. The forced proximity, the angst, the yearning... it all worked for me.
I can't even fully express the roller coaster of emotions this book put me through. One minute I was completely heartbroken for them, and the next I was overjoyed for them... then back to being heartbroken again 😂 Just repeat that cycle for infinity. I went through it 😅 stresssss!!!!
I laughed, I cried, I kicked my feet, the spice was perfection, and OMG... Lucky 😭 One of my absolute favorite parts of this story.
I'm also completely heartbroken over one particular character and am dying to know what happens to him next. Please tell me he's getting his own book because I need answers immediately!! Also wondering about another couple we met in this book and if they'll get their own story too👀
I already had high expectations going into this one, but Perri absolutely knocked her debut out of the park. I'm so excited to read literally anything she writes next.
Perri, I'm so proud of you and so incredibly happy for you. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Wildborn by Perri Torani is an ambitious yet satisfying debut novel. I really enjoyed the characters, worldbuilding and overall atmosphere of the book. I really love how Nora & Airik communicate and his way of speaking was so cute to me when mixing up his words and using the wrong tense. I love a book where the human teaches the alien how to speak. So cute. I also love that their relationship formed over time and it wasn't insta-lust. The spicy scenes were great (and plentiful) and Airik's special "sauce" was a pleasant surprise.
Now on to what I didn't like about this book and that is really only that it is way too long. I feel like the author spent too much time overexplaining things and a lot of stuff could have been cut out. I also like spice in my books, but they were going at it seemingly every few pages. This is fine for some, but for me I wanted to skip some of the scenes to get back to the actual plot.
On the whole, I think this is a wonderful book and I really enjoyed my time with this one. I'll definitely be on the lookout for future work from this author.
Thank you to the author and The Nerd Fam for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Expected Publication Date: 7/28
Now on to what I didn't like about this book and that is really only that it is way too long. I feel like the author spent too much time overexplaining things and a lot of stuff could have been cut out. I also like spice in my books, but they were going at it seemingly every few pages. This is fine for some, but for me I wanted to skip some of the scenes to get back to the actual plot.
On the whole, I think this is a wonderful book and I really enjoyed my time with this one. I'll definitely be on the lookout for future work from this author.
Thank you to the author and The Nerd Fam for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Expected Publication Date: 7/28
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to Perri for the arc opportunity!
First off, this is NOT a 5 star. This is absolutely my first 6 🌟read of the year. By far this has been my most anticipated book since learning about it's release and Perri did not disappoint. It exceeded every single expectation I had and then some.
Nora and Airik's story is such a beautiful and sometimes heartbreaking one. We have two very broken people who not only find their person in each other, but find their own inner strength and ability to live. They're also so dumb for each other. It's the cutest thing in the entire world. Two peas in a pod these two. The chemistry is immaculate and every single moment they're on page together I was smiling like a fool.
The writing was so well done as well. Incredibly written with humor, fluidity, and an elegance of a seasoned writer. I could not stop reading this and you won't want to either, every single word has meaning and everything was there for a reason. This is one you do not want to miss and you will regret not picking up when it comes out!
Also, Airik is just such a cutie pootie. Top 5 men of all time.
First off, this is NOT a 5 star. This is absolutely my first 6 🌟read of the year. By far this has been my most anticipated book since learning about it's release and Perri did not disappoint. It exceeded every single expectation I had and then some.
Nora and Airik's story is such a beautiful and sometimes heartbreaking one. We have two very broken people who not only find their person in each other, but find their own inner strength and ability to live. They're also so dumb for each other. It's the cutest thing in the entire world. Two peas in a pod these two. The chemistry is immaculate and every single moment they're on page together I was smiling like a fool.
The writing was so well done as well. Incredibly written with humor, fluidity, and an elegance of a seasoned writer. I could not stop reading this and you won't want to either, every single word has meaning and everything was there for a reason. This is one you do not want to miss and you will regret not picking up when it comes out!
Also, Airik is just such a cutie pootie. Top 5 men of all time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just knew that I was going to love this book!!! I finished the other day, and already in that slump that sometimes hits after you read a good book.
Easily 5 ⭐️'s guys.. Yes it is a spicy dark romance, but it also has PLOT. There is world building and politics involved.. it's not just spice (but I will interject right now and say the spice is 🥵 and so so good), but an amazing story of loss, found family, personal growth!
I will be honest, when I saw it was almost 700 pages-it scared me a little. Chunky books can be really good, or really bad, but I assure you, that I wanted MORE. It wasn't enough!!! There was never a point while reading where I was bored or wanted to put it down. I genuinely loved it start to finish, and I am only mad that now we have to wait for book two.
Please check the trigger warnings as it deals with loss, thoughts of s*icide, graphic violence, survivors guilt, etc. The author has a full Content Warning page on her site.
In closing, DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS BOOK! If you're a fan of Meg Smitherman (another favorite dark sci-fi author of mine) I think you will really enjoy this one.
Easily 5 ⭐️'s guys.. Yes it is a spicy dark romance, but it also has PLOT. There is world building and politics involved.. it's not just spice (but I will interject right now and say the spice is 🥵 and so so good), but an amazing story of loss, found family, personal growth!
I will be honest, when I saw it was almost 700 pages-it scared me a little. Chunky books can be really good, or really bad, but I assure you, that I wanted MORE. It wasn't enough!!! There was never a point while reading where I was bored or wanted to put it down. I genuinely loved it start to finish, and I am only mad that now we have to wait for book two.
Please check the trigger warnings as it deals with loss, thoughts of s*icide, graphic violence, survivors guilt, etc. The author has a full Content Warning page on her site.
In closing, DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS BOOK! If you're a fan of Meg Smitherman (another favorite dark sci-fi author of mine) I think you will really enjoy this one.
Review of advance copy
The Wildborn's main characters are Nora (a young woman suffering from anxiety and depression following the tragic death of her father and brother, and that's BEFORE she becomes the only survivor when her space station is attacked by terrorists) and Airik, an alien who's considered an aberration by his people and is dealing with the grief of recently losing his parents. These two have been through a lot before they even meet and fall into a forbidden love! If you love sci-fi romance between an alien and a human and like your alien romances emotional as well as spicy, The Wildborn is recommended!
At 689 pages, I did find it a bit too long though. I think the level of detail was needed at the start of the book to explain the world and the various alien races, but the middle of the book could have had one or two hundred pages removed to keep things moving.
The Wildborn has done a great job of setting the series up, introducing the side characters that will likely become the main characters of their own books and progress the ongoing plot.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy from The Nerd Fam, but this is my voluntary and honest review.
At 689 pages, I did find it a bit too long though. I think the level of detail was needed at the start of the book to explain the world and the various alien races, but the middle of the book could have had one or two hundred pages removed to keep things moving.
The Wildborn has done a great job of setting the series up, introducing the side characters that will likely become the main characters of their own books and progress the ongoing plot.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy from The Nerd Fam, but this is my voluntary and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think I’ve found my favourite sci-fi romance. At the very least, Airik has been added to my list of book boyfriends. The yearning, the soft side he only gives to Nora, the determination to keep this tiny little human safe- it all had me twirling my hair and kicking my feet. He’s a broken man in a broken world but doesn’t let that affect the care he shows his girl. Nora was such a compelling character as well! Such profound sadness so deep in her core, but she’s a little ball of light in Airik’s dark, and she dotes on him just as much. Two silly sad souls that find eachother in *literally* the most unlikely of places.
I have to say, that prologue? Hooked me immediately and I was deep into this alien world faster than you can say Wildborn. If I could actually give this book 6 stars I would. That is how much I loved this book. Perri Torani crafts such a beautiful world with such emotional scenes that had me crouched behind the counter at work during my break crying, to the concern of my coworkers.
Thank you so much to Perri Torani for the opportunity to read this as an arc <3
I have to say, that prologue? Hooked me immediately and I was deep into this alien world faster than you can say Wildborn. If I could actually give this book 6 stars I would. That is how much I loved this book. Perri Torani crafts such a beautiful world with such emotional scenes that had me crouched behind the counter at work during my break crying, to the concern of my coworkers.
Thank you so much to Perri Torani for the opportunity to read this as an arc <3
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this one.
The world is expansive and imaginative, but I never felt overwhelmed by it. Even with the sci-fi elements and larger story at play, everything was easy to follow and kept me invested from beginning to end.
The highlight for me was definitely Airik and Nora. Their relationship felt sweet, genuine, and easy to root for. Airik’s devotion and protectiveness had me smiling more than once, and I loved watching their connection develop throughout the story.
Lucky was also an absolute scene-stealer and quickly became one of my favorite characters.
What I appreciated most was that this felt like a complete first installment while still leaving plenty of questions unanswered and possibilities for what’s to come. I’m excited to see where the story goes next and will definitely be picking up book two.
If you enjoy sci-fi romance with a lovable couple, an interesting world, and plenty of adventure, this one is worth checking out.
The world is expansive and imaginative, but I never felt overwhelmed by it. Even with the sci-fi elements and larger story at play, everything was easy to follow and kept me invested from beginning to end.
The highlight for me was definitely Airik and Nora. Their relationship felt sweet, genuine, and easy to root for. Airik’s devotion and protectiveness had me smiling more than once, and I loved watching their connection develop throughout the story.
Lucky was also an absolute scene-stealer and quickly became one of my favorite characters.
What I appreciated most was that this felt like a complete first installment while still leaving plenty of questions unanswered and possibilities for what’s to come. I’m excited to see where the story goes next and will definitely be picking up book two.
If you enjoy sci-fi romance with a lovable couple, an interesting world, and plenty of adventure, this one is worth checking out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was quite excited about this book and I want to thank the author for sending this ARC, for which I'm providing a honest review.
There are definitely aspects of it which I enjoyed very much, such as Airik's POVs which provided a good depth to his character and evolution.
There's also a good effort at world building.
However, I found the book a tad too long and focused at explaining every single step of the story, a sort of telling but not showing, even if written pretty decently.
Add the cute animal side-kick (which disappeared at the most convenient - intimate - times), and many other tropes such as forced proximity, "good girl" moments, bodily fluids specially powered & more (don't want to spoil too much). They all made the story too similar to other alien romances, when it actually had plenty of material to stand out on its own.
Still, the yearning from Airik was great, and I'm definitely here to see what this author got next.
There are definitely aspects of it which I enjoyed very much, such as Airik's POVs which provided a good depth to his character and evolution.
There's also a good effort at world building.
However, I found the book a tad too long and focused at explaining every single step of the story, a sort of telling but not showing, even if written pretty decently.
Add the cute animal side-kick (which disappeared at the most convenient - intimate - times), and many other tropes such as forced proximity, "good girl" moments, bodily fluids specially powered & more (don't want to spoil too much). They all made the story too similar to other alien romances, when it actually had plenty of material to stand out on its own.
Still, the yearning from Airik was great, and I'm definitely here to see what this author got next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to the author for this ARC to review!
I really enjoyed reading this book! For me personally, this was a fresh take on a sci-fi alien romance.
I liked the world/s the author created and also the way the author approached trauma.
There were a few scenes where I teared up so the author definitely knew how to evoke lots of emotion in her writing. I also loved the way Airik treated Nora like someone he truly cherished, once he wasn’t afraid to love her.
I guess my only gripe was the length of the book, there was lots of world building as it is the first book so I do understand, but it did take me a little longer than normal to get through the book. I also wish there was a bit more detail from the scene where Nora sees Airik’s parents.
But, overall, I really enjoyed The Wildborn and I will definitely pick up future books in this series! I will recommend to bookish friends!
I really enjoyed reading this book! For me personally, this was a fresh take on a sci-fi alien romance.
I liked the world/s the author created and also the way the author approached trauma.
There were a few scenes where I teared up so the author definitely knew how to evoke lots of emotion in her writing. I also loved the way Airik treated Nora like someone he truly cherished, once he wasn’t afraid to love her.
I guess my only gripe was the length of the book, there was lots of world building as it is the first book so I do understand, but it did take me a little longer than normal to get through the book. I also wish there was a bit more detail from the scene where Nora sees Airik’s parents.
But, overall, I really enjoyed The Wildborn and I will definitely pick up future books in this series! I will recommend to bookish friends!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm losing my mind over this book!
(I got a free advance copy of this book, but these opinions are entirely my own!)
First of all, this is an amazing debut novel. The writing is so polished and addictive that I ended up pulling all-nighters because I just couldn't stop turning the page.
Nora and Airik both have tragic backstories. They've been through the absolute worst, and my heart broke for them. Because they've survived so much pain, watching them find comfort in each other felt so well-earned. Airik Airik Arik, I can't stop thinking about him. And the spice is off the scale for me. The tension buildup is delicious, and the payoff is incredibly hot. I was blushing and kicking my feet the entire time. The world-building here is top-tier. It's a really gritty, intense, and fascinating world that feels alive.
I need the sequel immediately. If you love heavy emotions, amazing sci-fi worlds, and high-heat romance, you need to read this. Easily a 5-star read for me!
(I got a free advance copy of this book, but these opinions are entirely my own!)
First of all, this is an amazing debut novel. The writing is so polished and addictive that I ended up pulling all-nighters because I just couldn't stop turning the page.
Nora and Airik both have tragic backstories. They've been through the absolute worst, and my heart broke for them. Because they've survived so much pain, watching them find comfort in each other felt so well-earned. Airik Airik Arik, I can't stop thinking about him. And the spice is off the scale for me. The tension buildup is delicious, and the payoff is incredibly hot. I was blushing and kicking my feet the entire time. The world-building here is top-tier. It's a really gritty, intense, and fascinating world that feels alive.
I need the sequel immediately. If you love heavy emotions, amazing sci-fi worlds, and high-heat romance, you need to read this. Easily a 5-star read for me!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I recieved and ARC of this book.
This book was a big one, but it stole my heart. I normally shy away from big reads like this unless they have, tropes, quotes, artwork or anything really to draw me it.
And it did not disappoint, it kept me intrigued, the insane world that has been created kept me on my toes for the new things that appeared. It was all very creative and impressive whilst also being heartbreaking.
The topic that the author touched on were done in such beautiful ways that nothing felt in your face, but natural and real!
The intense way these two were hurting and struggling to let their walls down, the intense way they fell in love, soul devouring made my heart ache, everyone wants that and the beautiful way they learn tobunderstand one another and the way they handled each other. Lucky is the perfect piece to add in to their family.
I am so excited for book 2, im hoping to see where these guys go and to see how some of the other possible paths move.
This book was a big one, but it stole my heart. I normally shy away from big reads like this unless they have, tropes, quotes, artwork or anything really to draw me it.
And it did not disappoint, it kept me intrigued, the insane world that has been created kept me on my toes for the new things that appeared. It was all very creative and impressive whilst also being heartbreaking.
The topic that the author touched on were done in such beautiful ways that nothing felt in your face, but natural and real!
The intense way these two were hurting and struggling to let their walls down, the intense way they fell in love, soul devouring made my heart ache, everyone wants that and the beautiful way they learn tobunderstand one another and the way they handled each other. Lucky is the perfect piece to add in to their family.
I am so excited for book 2, im hoping to see where these guys go and to see how some of the other possible paths move.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Plot - 🌏🌏
This really defied my expectations, it had so much heart and depth!!! I mean, it equally had a lot of spice 🔥🔥 but it had a great build up that made it so so much hotter!!
I loved how intricate the worlds were, it got so technical at times that I felt like I was stood right there in that space station. I loved Nora and all her complexities, I truly loved the mental health representation too. It was refreshing to see a FMC who wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows, she was someone who hasn’t been hardened by time but almost destroyed by it. I felt that so deeply.
Airik! Oh my 🙈🔥🔥 I’m not surprised that Nora was gone so quickly. I, too would be smitten at the sight of him!!!
Ohh the story!! It was so good and so captivating. It is heavily spicy but it has such a good plot.
I don’t want to say more as I don’t want spoil it for anyone.
Spice - 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Plot - 🌏🌏
This really defied my expectations, it had so much heart and depth!!! I mean, it equally had a lot of spice 🔥🔥 but it had a great build up that made it so so much hotter!!
I loved how intricate the worlds were, it got so technical at times that I felt like I was stood right there in that space station. I loved Nora and all her complexities, I truly loved the mental health representation too. It was refreshing to see a FMC who wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows, she was someone who hasn’t been hardened by time but almost destroyed by it. I felt that so deeply.
Airik! Oh my 🙈🔥🔥 I’m not surprised that Nora was gone so quickly. I, too would be smitten at the sight of him!!!
Ohh the story!! It was so good and so captivating. It is heavily spicy but it has such a good plot.
I don’t want to say more as I don’t want spoil it for anyone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
OK PERRI!!! Absolutely DEVOURED this book over the weekend.
Truly such an unexpectedly emotional, heartbreaking, intense, yet so sweet ride. Did I cry at the beginning? YUP! Did I cry at the end? YUP!
You will fall in love with Airik and Nora’s story. The book follows Airik, an alien warrior who is untouchable, and Nora, a lost human on an uninhabitable planet. This is SLOW BURN, high stakes, multifaceted book which will instantly grab the readers attention.
The Wildborn has all of the best parts of a science fiction romance!
👽 hot, sexy aliens
🌎incredible world building
💘emotional connection
🫶they save each other
😭PTSD/mental health rep
⚔️intense action
🦄the cutest sidekick
❤️🔥found family
Please, please, please don’t miss this one!! You will NOT be disappointed!!!
Truly such an unexpectedly emotional, heartbreaking, intense, yet so sweet ride. Did I cry at the beginning? YUP! Did I cry at the end? YUP!
You will fall in love with Airik and Nora’s story. The book follows Airik, an alien warrior who is untouchable, and Nora, a lost human on an uninhabitable planet. This is SLOW BURN, high stakes, multifaceted book which will instantly grab the readers attention.
The Wildborn has all of the best parts of a science fiction romance!
👽 hot, sexy aliens
🌎incredible world building
💘emotional connection
🫶they save each other
😭PTSD/mental health rep
⚔️intense action
🦄the cutest sidekick
❤️🔥found family
Please, please, please don’t miss this one!! You will NOT be disappointed!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a delightful surprise of a book. I’ll admit that I got sucked into applying for this arc because of the character art and just expected a ton of alien smut. Instead we’re given a beautifully tender love story between two souls that just needed someone to see them.
Airik and Nora’s journey of survival, trust, acceptance and love was so spectacularly written, I quite literally couldn’t put it down. Sleeping got in the way otherwise I would’ve devoured it in one sitting… all almost 700 pages of it.
This is a medium spice medium burn sci-fi romance that I honestly cannot recommend enough. What an incredible reading experience. A billion stars, can’t wait to read what comes next in this series!!
Airik and Nora’s journey of survival, trust, acceptance and love was so spectacularly written, I quite literally couldn’t put it down. Sleeping got in the way otherwise I would’ve devoured it in one sitting… all almost 700 pages of it.
This is a medium spice medium burn sci-fi romance that I honestly cannot recommend enough. What an incredible reading experience. A billion stars, can’t wait to read what comes next in this series!!
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