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The Phoenix Adventures #3.5
Beneath a Trojan Moon
A flirtatious fortune teller + a sexy, single-minded marshal = a sexy, fast-paced sci fi romance
Fortune teller Relda Dela-Cruz is a woman with a secret. One she'll do anything to conceal. She hides in plain sight on the market world of Souk, content with running her profitable fortune-telling business and never letting anyone too close. But when assailants attack her in pursuit of a powerful artefact, Relda collides with the city's handsome, new marshal. A man who leaves no stone unturned and no secret covered.
War has left former Galactic Special Forces Captain Hunt Calder tired and empty, but one look at sexy Relda - with her wild curls and lush curves - brings him back to life. When she's threatened over the mysterious Trojan Moon, Hunt will let nothing stop him from protecting her. Even Relda herself.
As they face alien attackers and killer droids, Relda can't resist her burning attraction to Hunt. But she knows he's the most dangerous threat of all, because he doesn't just want her body, he wants her trust and her secret, too. A secret with the power to destroy Hunt and Relda, the city, even the planet itself.
81 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2014
46 people are currently reading
324 people want to read
About the author
Anna Hackett
162 books2,913 followersI’m a USA Today bestselling romance author who’s passionate about fast-paced, emotion-filled romantic suspense and science-fiction romance. I love writing about people overcoming unbeatable odds and achieving seemingly impossible goals. I like to believe it’s possible for all of us to do the same.
I love hearing from readers and you can find me on Facebook, Instagram and my website: www.annahackett.com
I love hearing from readers and you can find me on Facebook, Instagram and my website: www.annahackett.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 2, 2014
Originally reviewed at West Coast Book Reviews.
Beneath a Trojan Moon is a novella in the Phoenix Adventures Series.
I adored Relda right from the start. She gave someone who broke into her shop a job and pays a young street kid to run messages she could send electronically. Her hidden abilities show us why we should like big, rough Hunt the moment we meet him.
Hunt has been left worn by years in the Special Forces, the only bright spot in his life is Relda though he doesn't have a chance to get close to her until she's in danger. Then, all bets are off.
Beneath a Trojan Moon is a sweet complement to the action driven romance of the three novels preceding it in the series although the action is in no way lacking. In those, the destination is puzzled out then sought. Great journeys had, chases run and galaxies crossed. All in pursuit of a happy ending and home.
In Beneath a Trojan Moon, Relda and Hunt fight for the home and happy ending already surrounding them. Their great adventure is in discovering and protecting what they have together.
Although this novella can be read as a stand alone, I found my familiarity with Hackett's sci-fi world helped me dig in right away and appreciate Relda and Hunt's backgrounds.
Beneath a Trojan Moon holds up to the others in the series in terms of action, butt kicking heroines and the alpha males who welcome them as both their weakness and their strength.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Beneath a Trojan Moon is a novella in the Phoenix Adventures Series.
I adored Relda right from the start. She gave someone who broke into her shop a job and pays a young street kid to run messages she could send electronically. Her hidden abilities show us why we should like big, rough Hunt the moment we meet him.
Hunt has been left worn by years in the Special Forces, the only bright spot in his life is Relda though he doesn't have a chance to get close to her until she's in danger. Then, all bets are off.
Beneath a Trojan Moon is a sweet complement to the action driven romance of the three novels preceding it in the series although the action is in no way lacking. In those, the destination is puzzled out then sought. Great journeys had, chases run and galaxies crossed. All in pursuit of a happy ending and home.
In Beneath a Trojan Moon, Relda and Hunt fight for the home and happy ending already surrounding them. Their great adventure is in discovering and protecting what they have together.
Although this novella can be read as a stand alone, I found my familiarity with Hackett's sci-fi world helped me dig in right away and appreciate Relda and Hunt's backgrounds.
Beneath a Trojan Moon holds up to the others in the series in terms of action, butt kicking heroines and the alpha males who welcome them as both their weakness and their strength.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
January 26, 2015
In case anybody was worried, I'm still loving sexy sci-fi. Yep. Something about different planets/aliens/spaceships does it for me.
Guess what? THIS BOOK GAVE ME ALL THOSE THINGS! Different planet? CHECK! Aliens (some who are humanoid with some awesome little extra powers!)? CHECK! Spaceships? Check! (although the spaceship was only fleeting. STILL! SPACESHIP!) I also got my bonus favorites of a strong female lead and a hunky Alpha male. BOOM! Everything I wanted!
Hunt and Relda. I liked them together. She has secrets. He has a fine appreciation for how she reacts to his presence. The two of them together make for some nicely explosive chemistry. Actually, the explosion comes later. You'll see what I mean!
Although this is book 4 in the series, it worked well as a standalone. Annnnd... now I kinda want to read the rest of the series. Because, you know, SEXY SCI-FI!
*slow thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Guess what? THIS BOOK GAVE ME ALL THOSE THINGS! Different planet? CHECK! Aliens (some who are humanoid with some awesome little extra powers!)? CHECK! Spaceships? Check! (although the spaceship was only fleeting. STILL! SPACESHIP!) I also got my bonus favorites of a strong female lead and a hunky Alpha male. BOOM! Everything I wanted!
Hunt and Relda. I liked them together. She has secrets. He has a fine appreciation for how she reacts to his presence. The two of them together make for some nicely explosive chemistry. Actually, the explosion comes later. You'll see what I mean!
Although this is book 4 in the series, it worked well as a standalone. Annnnd... now I kinda want to read the rest of the series. Because, you know, SEXY SCI-FI!
*slow thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
August 22, 2021
Series: Phoenix Adventures #3.5
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
Fortune teller Rela Dela-Cruz has a secret. She hides in plain sight on the market world of Souk and never lets anyone close. But when she is attacked by assailants looking for an artifact, she finds herself unable to avoid the city’s new marshal, Hunt Calder.
This was an excellent addition to the series, especially considering Hunt and Rela are two completely new characters. Hunt and Rela have a fast paced and intense romance. Rela was a great heroine who could take care of herself. She was independent, smart, kind, and wasn’t afraid to defend herself. Her abilities as a Vega-Lyran were fascinating and I wish we had seen more of what she was able to do.
Hunt was a wonderful hero. He is strong, protective, and knows exactly who he wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. I loved how he handled finding out who Rela was and that he refused to let her keep running away. I do wish we had gotten more of his backstory and history though.
Overall, this was a great novella. I do wish it had been longer but it was still very good. I can’t wait to see what will happen next in this series.
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
Fortune teller Rela Dela-Cruz has a secret. She hides in plain sight on the market world of Souk and never lets anyone close. But when she is attacked by assailants looking for an artifact, she finds herself unable to avoid the city’s new marshal, Hunt Calder.
This was an excellent addition to the series, especially considering Hunt and Rela are two completely new characters. Hunt and Rela have a fast paced and intense romance. Rela was a great heroine who could take care of herself. She was independent, smart, kind, and wasn’t afraid to defend herself. Her abilities as a Vega-Lyran were fascinating and I wish we had seen more of what she was able to do.
“You brought me back to life. One look at you and all this vibrant color crashed into my gray world.”
Hunt was a wonderful hero. He is strong, protective, and knows exactly who he wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. I loved how he handled finding out who Rela was and that he refused to let her keep running away. I do wish we had gotten more of his backstory and history though.
Overall, this was a great novella. I do wish it had been longer but it was still very good. I can’t wait to see what will happen next in this series.
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
December 29, 2014
4.5 stars! I loved this novella from this great series. Relda is a fortune teller on the market world of Souk, who had the briefest appearance in the first Phoenix Adventure book - At Star's End. The heroines of the first two books also have a short scene in this, but otherwise this stands completely alone from the rest of the series and is a perfect entry point if you need to be convinced.
Relda is a powerful woman with big secrets, but she mostly keeps to herself and lives a quiet life. Until recently her biggest problem had been her inconvenient attraction to the city's new marshal, Hunt Calder. Relda's learned the hard way not to trust anyone with her secrets, so getting close to any man is not on the agenda. Especially such an overwhelming one as this.
Until Relda's secrets start to catch up with her. It's time to leave Souk behind - if only Hunt would let her go.
This story is a little different to the rest of the series so far. Partly because it's set entirely on one world, so there's no space travel involved. But Hunt's an unusual hero, because he's pure alpha. He takes charge of every situation and once he claims Relda for his own, he refuses to accept she might leave him. Yet it works, because Relda is so very powerful herself she needs a man who can match her, challenge her and balance her. They're equally as determined as each other, with strong protective instincts.
The plot is fast, full of danger and sexy moments. It rips along in the same romping fashion that I've come to expect - and love - from this series. It also adds yet more layers to this great universe, full of so many secrets and wonders. This might only be a novella, but it's just as well written and balanced as the rest of this series.
Relda is a powerful woman with big secrets, but she mostly keeps to herself and lives a quiet life. Until recently her biggest problem had been her inconvenient attraction to the city's new marshal, Hunt Calder. Relda's learned the hard way not to trust anyone with her secrets, so getting close to any man is not on the agenda. Especially such an overwhelming one as this.
Until Relda's secrets start to catch up with her. It's time to leave Souk behind - if only Hunt would let her go.
This story is a little different to the rest of the series so far. Partly because it's set entirely on one world, so there's no space travel involved. But Hunt's an unusual hero, because he's pure alpha. He takes charge of every situation and once he claims Relda for his own, he refuses to accept she might leave him. Yet it works, because Relda is so very powerful herself she needs a man who can match her, challenge her and balance her. They're equally as determined as each other, with strong protective instincts.
The plot is fast, full of danger and sexy moments. It rips along in the same romping fashion that I've come to expect - and love - from this series. It also adds yet more layers to this great universe, full of so many secrets and wonders. This might only be a novella, but it's just as well written and balanced as the rest of this series.
May 16, 2024
BENEATH A TROJAN MOON was another excellent addition to the series and I've really been enjoying the diversity of planets, species, and races that Anna Hackett has been incorporating in her stories. This is truly a galaxy of many varied types and all the variations definitely add complexity to the world she's created. Relda was a great heroine who knows how to take care of herself and knows what she wants in life. Because her species was hunted, she's had to keep her powers a secret from everyone and though she thinks she's keeping everyone at arm's length, she's actually put down strong roots in Souk.
I absolutely loved Hunt, he's the exact type of hero that I seek out in books. Hunt is strong, protective and a touch dominant; this man knows he wants Relda and he's not afraid to tell her exactly what he wants to do to her. He's that perfect mix of steadfast and wild. I did feel the story was focused a lot more on Relda so we didn't get a very in-depth look at Hunt and his history but enough was covered to get the basics.
I always say I want a longer book but in this case it was more needed than wanted. Relda once revealed who she was to the man she thought loved her and he betrayed her; because of this, Relda is very cautious and believes she will never find true love with someone. With all of that background, it was a bit unexpected that Relda would reveal her secret to Hunt so easily and quickly after being with him. Because this novella was less than 100 pages there wasn't a lot of time for true trust to be built so Relda is really just going on instinct when she confides in Hunt. I wanted a longer book so that this could be more developed.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
“You brought me back to life. One look at you and all this vibrant color crashed into my gray world.”
I absolutely loved Hunt, he's the exact type of hero that I seek out in books. Hunt is strong, protective and a touch dominant; this man knows he wants Relda and he's not afraid to tell her exactly what he wants to do to her. He's that perfect mix of steadfast and wild. I did feel the story was focused a lot more on Relda so we didn't get a very in-depth look at Hunt and his history but enough was covered to get the basics.
I always say I want a longer book but in this case it was more needed than wanted. Relda once revealed who she was to the man she thought loved her and he betrayed her; because of this, Relda is very cautious and believes she will never find true love with someone. With all of that background, it was a bit unexpected that Relda would reveal her secret to Hunt so easily and quickly after being with him. Because this novella was less than 100 pages there wasn't a lot of time for true trust to be built so Relda is really just going on instinct when she confides in Hunt. I wanted a longer book so that this could be more developed.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
“You brought me back to life. One look at you and all this vibrant color crashed into my gray world.”
February 3, 2024
3.5 Stars. I’ve enjoyed the world building and space travel concept in the PHOENIX Space Opera series and have very much enjoyed the previous books. For whatever reason, I didn’t find BENEATH A TROJAN MOON as captivating as the previous titles. It seemed to have less adventure and story depth, yet plenty steamy scenes - IMO. That being said, readers of action-adventures-romance novels, light fantasy romances or light Space Opera romances with HEAs may wish to try BENEATH A TROJAN MOON/#4, a novella in the PHOENIX Space Opera series because it does work well as a standalone title.
BENEATH A TROJAN MOON does not involve the PHOENIX family, except by brief mention. BENEATH includes the world that the PHOENIX books are written, and the main female character, Relda, was briefly mentioned in an earlier novel, otherwise BENEATH A TROJAN MOON stands well alone. The MMC, Capt Hunt Calder, is the new Marshall providing law and order in the small market town of Medina, on the planet Souk - the planet the PHOENIX brothers regularly visit when purchasing supplies before each hunt. BENEATH A TROJAN MOON is a short 2nd Chance novella in which Relda, a market stall owner, wonders if she has found a man she can finally trust. Considerable sexual intimacy is present, on-scene, & steamy. Therefore I do not recommended it for young readers or those who prefer Clean novels.
READER CAUTIONS - NOT recommended for those who prefer Clean fiction. Not appropriate for YA readers.
PROFANITY - Yes. Occasional strong language used.
VIOLENCE - Yes. PG-13/R? in Sci-fi/Fantasy fashion (Star Wars type). Possible triggers - women at risk, woman abduction.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. On-scene adult intimacy.
BENEATH A TROJAN MOON does not involve the PHOENIX family, except by brief mention. BENEATH includes the world that the PHOENIX books are written, and the main female character, Relda, was briefly mentioned in an earlier novel, otherwise BENEATH A TROJAN MOON stands well alone. The MMC, Capt Hunt Calder, is the new Marshall providing law and order in the small market town of Medina, on the planet Souk - the planet the PHOENIX brothers regularly visit when purchasing supplies before each hunt. BENEATH A TROJAN MOON is a short 2nd Chance novella in which Relda, a market stall owner, wonders if she has found a man she can finally trust. Considerable sexual intimacy is present, on-scene, & steamy. Therefore I do not recommended it for young readers or those who prefer Clean novels.
READER CAUTIONS - NOT recommended for those who prefer Clean fiction. Not appropriate for YA readers.
PROFANITY - Yes. Occasional strong language used.
VIOLENCE - Yes. PG-13/R? in Sci-fi/Fantasy fashion (Star Wars type). Possible triggers - women at risk, woman abduction.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. On-scene adult intimacy.
December 19, 2014
Relda Dela-Cruz carries a huge secret, one that threatens not only her life, but those around her. Relocating to the market planet of Souk four years ago, Relda remains in hiding as a market businesswoman.
Marshal Hunt Calder recently moved to Souk to be marshal after retiring from Galactic Security Services. When two baddies attempt to rough up Relda, Hunt makes it his personal mission to protect her. With his alpha side taking control, Hunt can no longer hide his desire for Relda.
Beneath a Trojan Moon is an incredibly sexy and well-developed novella set in the Phoenix Adventure series. The title is completely stand-alone, although a few familiar characters make a cameo appearance. Hunt and Relda are HOT! The pair steams up the pages and develop an excellent rapport in the time given.
The story behind Relda’s secret and the lengths she’ll take to protect those around her is engrossing. I really enjoyed Ms. Hackett’s voice and the complexity she obtains in the novella-length format. I didn’t figure out the tale’s twist until the last moments, and I found the plot well-written and exciting.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novella. Beneath the Trojan Moon is super sexy and fun! It had the right mix of action, romance, and intrigue. Relda and Hunt are likable characters, both of whom I connect with immediately. I loved their sparks and enjoyed the back and forth play. They are mature and caring, not willing to play games. This stand-alone story is a must read for fans of sci-fi and romance.
My Rating: A, loved it!
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by author.
Marshal Hunt Calder recently moved to Souk to be marshal after retiring from Galactic Security Services. When two baddies attempt to rough up Relda, Hunt makes it his personal mission to protect her. With his alpha side taking control, Hunt can no longer hide his desire for Relda.
Beneath a Trojan Moon is an incredibly sexy and well-developed novella set in the Phoenix Adventure series. The title is completely stand-alone, although a few familiar characters make a cameo appearance. Hunt and Relda are HOT! The pair steams up the pages and develop an excellent rapport in the time given.
The story behind Relda’s secret and the lengths she’ll take to protect those around her is engrossing. I really enjoyed Ms. Hackett’s voice and the complexity she obtains in the novella-length format. I didn’t figure out the tale’s twist until the last moments, and I found the plot well-written and exciting.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novella. Beneath the Trojan Moon is super sexy and fun! It had the right mix of action, romance, and intrigue. Relda and Hunt are likable characters, both of whom I connect with immediately. I loved their sparks and enjoyed the back and forth play. They are mature and caring, not willing to play games. This stand-alone story is a must read for fans of sci-fi and romance.
My Rating: A, loved it!
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by author.
January 19, 2015
I am hooked on The Phoenix Adventures. Beneath a Trojan Moon is a side story novella set in the Phoenix universe. What it does not have are any of the Phoenix men in the story. Two of the Phoenix women do appear briefly but this is really Relda Depa-Cruz and Hunt Calder story and romance and it is a good one.
Relda and Hunt are both very appealing characters. The action in the story is a result of Relda’s secret. Hunt just wants to protect Relda at any cost. All of this sets up an action filled well written romance.
Beneath a Trojan Moon is a great addition to the series. It does stand alone but like any good series it is more fun if you read every book.
Relda and Hunt are both very appealing characters. The action in the story is a result of Relda’s secret. Hunt just wants to protect Relda at any cost. All of this sets up an action filled well written romance.
Beneath a Trojan Moon is a great addition to the series. It does stand alone but like any good series it is more fun if you read every book.
March 23, 2019
A quick and enjoyable little story. I just love last-of-their-kid psychic stories. Lots of sex for such a short book, though.
May 29, 2015
Originally published at Reading Reality
Unlike yesterday’s book, Beneath a Trojan Moon reads very much as a standalone, in spite of being book 4 in Anna Hackett’s Phoenix Adventures series.
In this short, sweet and sexy story, the home base of the famous or infamous Phoenix Brothers is a moon orbiting the planet Souk where this adventure takes place. While the Phoenix Brothers are mentioned (their moon is actually a repeating pun) the brothers (and their assorted cousins) only appear briefly as very much secondary (maybe tertiary) characters. The Phoenix Brothers provide setting and worldbuilding, but do not underpin the story.
In other words, if you are looking for an entry into this marvelous series, Beneath a Trojan Moon is a good place to start. Almost as good as the excellent first book in the series, At Star's End.
Instead, we have the story of one of the last survivors of a powerful and persecuted race, in possession of an artifact that has ties to old Earth (our Earth) but with extra added provenance and power.
The Hope Diamond is still dazzling, and it is still spreading its curse around the galaxy. It is also a powerful artifact that enhances the psychic powers of whoever holds it. In other words, it is still beautiful and precious, and it still leaves death in its wake.
Relda is one of the last of her people, and she is also the keeper of the Trojan Moon, a blue diamond that once graced the head of a goddess, and was once part of the French crown. Relda’s Trojan Moon is sought by collectors and would-be psychics, especially those with too much money and no scruples whatsoever.
Relda has been hiding in plain sight on Souk as a fortune-teller.Most people believe she is a talented faker, but in fact she is one of the last of the Vega-Lyrans, and seeing the future is just one of her many talents. Also just one of her many secrets.
Former Galactic Special Forces Captain Hunt Calder is the law on Souk. He’s also a Predian, which means he has a few extra-special talents up his rather muscular sleeve. One of those abilities allow him to sense a person’s heart and respiration rate. Unless someone is very, very good, and very, very heartless, Calder knows when someone is lying.
And he’s absolutely certain that Relda is lying through her beautiful teeth about why so many people are after her and the Trojan Moon, whatever that might be.
Putting her into protective custody in his own apartment allows Hunt and Relda to finally explore the chemistry that has been simmering between them, in spite of the necessary evasions that have kept them apart.
It also makes Relda a much easier target for the bad guys to find. The question is whether she can rescue herself before Hunt finds her, and whether or not that rescue just paints and even bigger target on both their backs.
Escape Rating A-: This one is short, sweet and sexy, more of an appetizer for this series where the novels have been main courses.
I’m writing this at lunch time, so I may be a bit hungry, but I think the analogy still holds up. The novels in this series, At Star's End, In the Devil's Nebula and On a Rogue Planet include a heaping helping of adventure along with the sc-fi romance. Beneath a Trojan Moon is all about the romance between Relda and Hunt. The story just uses (and uses well) a science fictional setting that the author has already done a marvelous job setting up.
Hunt has quit GalCom and become a local lawman because he felt that the work he was doing for GalCom was turning him into an emotionless robot. But falling for Relda, someone he knows is hiding some awfully big secrets, is more of a stretch than he planned on.
Relda tells herself that Souk is just a temporary stopover in a life of running and hiding, but in 4 years she has put down more roots than she expected. She has made herself a home and isn’t quite aware of it.
Her surface awareness is that people who were afraid of the Vega-Lyrians have made all members of her species personae non grata on every planet, and that frightened people hunted her people, including her own parents, to death. Not for anything they actually did, but for what they were capable of.
Relda has the power to level the entire planet. Any planet. She’s rightfully afraid that if she reveals herself the mob will come for her too.
At the same time, she is constantly looking over her shoulder because there are collectors (just like The Collector in Guardians of the Galaxy) who will spend any amount of wealth to add both The Trojan Moon and Relda herself to their private collections.
This story comes to a marvelous head when Relda has to choose which is more important – revealing herself and while saving Hunt and her friends on Souk from a ship crash, knowing that the people of Souk may turn her in later themselves, or hiding and letting go of any chance of happiness, or even a future.
Beneath a Trojan Moon packs a lot of sci-fi wallop into a short story. I loved this little aperitif, and can’t wait to dive into another full-course story in the Phoenix Adventures.
Unlike yesterday’s book, Beneath a Trojan Moon reads very much as a standalone, in spite of being book 4 in Anna Hackett’s Phoenix Adventures series.
In this short, sweet and sexy story, the home base of the famous or infamous Phoenix Brothers is a moon orbiting the planet Souk where this adventure takes place. While the Phoenix Brothers are mentioned (their moon is actually a repeating pun) the brothers (and their assorted cousins) only appear briefly as very much secondary (maybe tertiary) characters. The Phoenix Brothers provide setting and worldbuilding, but do not underpin the story.
In other words, if you are looking for an entry into this marvelous series, Beneath a Trojan Moon is a good place to start. Almost as good as the excellent first book in the series, At Star's End.
Instead, we have the story of one of the last survivors of a powerful and persecuted race, in possession of an artifact that has ties to old Earth (our Earth) but with extra added provenance and power.
The Hope Diamond is still dazzling, and it is still spreading its curse around the galaxy. It is also a powerful artifact that enhances the psychic powers of whoever holds it. In other words, it is still beautiful and precious, and it still leaves death in its wake.
Relda is one of the last of her people, and she is also the keeper of the Trojan Moon, a blue diamond that once graced the head of a goddess, and was once part of the French crown. Relda’s Trojan Moon is sought by collectors and would-be psychics, especially those with too much money and no scruples whatsoever.
Relda has been hiding in plain sight on Souk as a fortune-teller.Most people believe she is a talented faker, but in fact she is one of the last of the Vega-Lyrans, and seeing the future is just one of her many talents. Also just one of her many secrets.
Former Galactic Special Forces Captain Hunt Calder is the law on Souk. He’s also a Predian, which means he has a few extra-special talents up his rather muscular sleeve. One of those abilities allow him to sense a person’s heart and respiration rate. Unless someone is very, very good, and very, very heartless, Calder knows when someone is lying.
And he’s absolutely certain that Relda is lying through her beautiful teeth about why so many people are after her and the Trojan Moon, whatever that might be.
Putting her into protective custody in his own apartment allows Hunt and Relda to finally explore the chemistry that has been simmering between them, in spite of the necessary evasions that have kept them apart.
It also makes Relda a much easier target for the bad guys to find. The question is whether she can rescue herself before Hunt finds her, and whether or not that rescue just paints and even bigger target on both their backs.
Escape Rating A-: This one is short, sweet and sexy, more of an appetizer for this series where the novels have been main courses.
I’m writing this at lunch time, so I may be a bit hungry, but I think the analogy still holds up. The novels in this series, At Star's End, In the Devil's Nebula and On a Rogue Planet include a heaping helping of adventure along with the sc-fi romance. Beneath a Trojan Moon is all about the romance between Relda and Hunt. The story just uses (and uses well) a science fictional setting that the author has already done a marvelous job setting up.
Hunt has quit GalCom and become a local lawman because he felt that the work he was doing for GalCom was turning him into an emotionless robot. But falling for Relda, someone he knows is hiding some awfully big secrets, is more of a stretch than he planned on.
Relda tells herself that Souk is just a temporary stopover in a life of running and hiding, but in 4 years she has put down more roots than she expected. She has made herself a home and isn’t quite aware of it.
Her surface awareness is that people who were afraid of the Vega-Lyrians have made all members of her species personae non grata on every planet, and that frightened people hunted her people, including her own parents, to death. Not for anything they actually did, but for what they were capable of.
Relda has the power to level the entire planet. Any planet. She’s rightfully afraid that if she reveals herself the mob will come for her too.
At the same time, she is constantly looking over her shoulder because there are collectors (just like The Collector in Guardians of the Galaxy) who will spend any amount of wealth to add both The Trojan Moon and Relda herself to their private collections.
This story comes to a marvelous head when Relda has to choose which is more important – revealing herself and while saving Hunt and her friends on Souk from a ship crash, knowing that the people of Souk may turn her in later themselves, or hiding and letting go of any chance of happiness, or even a future.
Beneath a Trojan Moon packs a lot of sci-fi wallop into a short story. I loved this little aperitif, and can’t wait to dive into another full-course story in the Phoenix Adventures.
June 23, 2018
Another fun read!
This is a peripheral story to the Phoenix brothers and cousins.
Relda is a fortune teller on the planet of Souk which is the planet where Khan, the asteroid where the Phoenix brothers live, is in a LaGrangian orbit with its moon. Marshall Hunt Calder is the law on Souk and he is drawn to the mystery of Relda. Relda has built a serene life on Souk after running for most of her life. She has special psychic powers that she daren't use since they are so powerful but, her anonymity is coming to an end. Hunt doesn't care who she is he only knows that she is all he needs and when someone targets her he won't sit back.
Once again, a fast paced romantic adventure from Anna Hackett.
This is a peripheral story to the Phoenix brothers and cousins.
Relda is a fortune teller on the planet of Souk which is the planet where Khan, the asteroid where the Phoenix brothers live, is in a LaGrangian orbit with its moon. Marshall Hunt Calder is the law on Souk and he is drawn to the mystery of Relda. Relda has built a serene life on Souk after running for most of her life. She has special psychic powers that she daren't use since they are so powerful but, her anonymity is coming to an end. Hunt doesn't care who she is he only knows that she is all he needs and when someone targets her he won't sit back.
Once again, a fast paced romantic adventure from Anna Hackett.
July 29, 2019
4&1\2🌟
Relda and Hunt's story was a delicious interlude in the on going Phoenix adventures. Hunt is seriously one of the sexiest leading men I've read about in a long time He's Strong, honorable a man who knows what he wants and what he's willing to do to protect what's his. Relda, a women from a reads of very powerful beings hunted down and killed due to fear. Together these two learn valuable lessons about trust, love and acceptance. The adventures and danger they face together will give the family they both a!ways dreamed of!💖💖
Relda and Hunt's story was a delicious interlude in the on going Phoenix adventures. Hunt is seriously one of the sexiest leading men I've read about in a long time He's Strong, honorable a man who knows what he wants and what he's willing to do to protect what's his. Relda, a women from a reads of very powerful beings hunted down and killed due to fear. Together these two learn valuable lessons about trust, love and acceptance. The adventures and danger they face together will give the family they both a!ways dreamed of!💖💖
May 22, 2017
Once again AH delivers a fast paced, action packed story. I love the world AH created with this series, I think if we could take a quick peek centuries into the future we'd see something very much like she describes here.
Anna Hackett has an incredible gift, so far I have read what must be close to 20 or so of her books and I have yet to come across one that isn't unique. Now that takes talent.
Anna Hackett has an incredible gift, so far I have read what must be close to 20 or so of her books and I have yet to come across one that isn't unique. Now that takes talent.
September 5, 2019
An enjoyable science fiction novella with lots of fast paced exciting action. I liked multiple things about the heroine; her strength, her special ability and her care for the unfortunate. The hero also had some good traits. Fortune teller Relda's business is attacked and Captain Hunter works to catch the bad guys and protect her.
May 16, 2018
So good
This series is one of my new favorites. The Phoenix cousins are funny and strong. This book does not involve the Phoenix clan. Relda the fortune teller from Dathan 's story reveals her secrets. Hunt Calder tames Relda. Sweet story
This series is one of my new favorites. The Phoenix cousins are funny and strong. This book does not involve the Phoenix clan. Relda the fortune teller from Dathan 's story reveals her secrets. Hunt Calder tames Relda. Sweet story
October 13, 2017
This is a cute novella in the Phoenix Adventures world. Loved it!
April 25, 2018
This is a standalone novella. The Terren artifact was the Hope Diamond.
August 10, 2018
Two characters who live on Souk, the planet below the Phoenix Brother's base. The Terran artifact is the Hope Diamond. Easy Read.
January 30, 2019
Great book.
I really like this series. It's exciting and keeps you turning pages. A very good book and can't wait to read the next.
I really like this series. It's exciting and keeps you turning pages. A very good book and can't wait to read the next.
February 9, 2022
A fun pause in the series. Nice characters. Nice story.
February 24, 2022
I like this book I might even read more in this series because for it. I don’t read many series so that is a big thing.
May 17, 2015
This was a decent novella.
The Good: Sexy; pretty descriptions of a lush fortune-telling booth, house, and asteroid; interesting world building.
The Meh: The hero wasn't my style; action was hard to picture.
The heroine is secretly an alien species that has been hunted to extinction because they have god-like psionic powers. Someone has recognized her from her jewelry and is now trying to kidnap her and steal her stuff. She must rely on local law enforcement so that her identity and powers aren't revealed. A while ago, she trusted a lover with her identity and he sold her out, so she now can't trust the sexy cop who keeps telling her to trust him. Also, she takes in local orphan girls and trains them to be fortune tellers.
As stated at the start of the review, this was a decent story that mostly kept me engaged; when my mind wandered, it was short enough that I decided to finish it. The cop is trying to figure out her secret for the first part, then telling her what to do for the second. You'd think that he would appreciate that she had kept herself alive for this long and give her some props for handling things herself, but no, he's too alpha for that. This will definitely make him attractive to many readers but for me it detracted. I kept thinking he was like Channing Tatum in Jupiter Ascending if he had been way more of a jerk.
I also had a hard time picturing the market and planet. It was really hard to figure out how big it was. That might be my fault - I do skim sometimes! - and not the author's. The heroine would be running between tents and then pass a floating grav-truck. Or the hero would park at the law enforcement office and then walk (?) to the heroine's house. Are these like a block apart or a couple miles? It's nit-picky but it did interfere with my enjoyment. Especially in comparison to the way she describes the food, the tea, the silks, the jewels, the furnishings...those parts are really lovely. I wanted to understand more of what I was seeing.
Overall, I'd recommend it as a quick, sexy SFR read.
The Good: Sexy; pretty descriptions of a lush fortune-telling booth, house, and asteroid; interesting world building.
The Meh: The hero wasn't my style; action was hard to picture.
The heroine is secretly an alien species that has been hunted to extinction because they have god-like psionic powers. Someone has recognized her from her jewelry and is now trying to kidnap her and steal her stuff. She must rely on local law enforcement so that her identity and powers aren't revealed. A while ago, she trusted a lover with her identity and he sold her out, so she now can't trust the sexy cop who keeps telling her to trust him. Also, she takes in local orphan girls and trains them to be fortune tellers.
As stated at the start of the review, this was a decent story that mostly kept me engaged; when my mind wandered, it was short enough that I decided to finish it. The cop is trying to figure out her secret for the first part, then telling her what to do for the second. You'd think that he would appreciate that she had kept herself alive for this long and give her some props for handling things herself, but no, he's too alpha for that. This will definitely make him attractive to many readers but for me it detracted. I kept thinking he was like Channing Tatum in Jupiter Ascending if he had been way more of a jerk.
I also had a hard time picturing the market and planet. It was really hard to figure out how big it was. That might be my fault - I do skim sometimes! - and not the author's. The heroine would be running between tents and then pass a floating grav-truck. Or the hero would park at the law enforcement office and then walk (?) to the heroine's house. Are these like a block apart or a couple miles? It's nit-picky but it did interfere with my enjoyment. Especially in comparison to the way she describes the food, the tea, the silks, the jewels, the furnishings...those parts are really lovely. I wanted to understand more of what I was seeing.
Overall, I'd recommend it as a quick, sexy SFR read.
March 31, 2015
Being a big mood reader, I’ve been on the lookout for some good SciFi romance as that’s what I feel like reading. This one was a freebie on Amazon so I picked it up. I didn’t realized until after that it just a short story – but hey, it was free so who am I to complain.
Relda Dela-Cruz is a fortune teller and quite an entrepreneur. She is building quite a nice little business on the world of Souk. But when one of her treasure is seen by the bad guys, they want to steal it from her. Enter marshal Hunt Calder a former Special Forces Captain. He is quite taken with Relda and determines to save her from the bad guys Relda is quite taken with Hunt too but she is very much more than just a simple shop keeper and fortune teller. She has untold powers that she it trying to hide to keep from being captured and killed as so many like her have. Thus she tried to maintain a distance from Hunt, having learned from experience how dangerous it is to trust the wrong person.
Though as I said earlier this is quite a short story; I read in only a few hours, considering the length, it was quite good. Certainly I enjoyed it enough to check out some of this author’s other works. There was a brief scene with characters from previous book that I really want to learn more about.
This book comes across somewhat as a galactic western. And since I love westerns, I was really pleased when I finished this. A genre I liked, the possibility of more books, a squeal of a deal on price, I’m glad I picked up Beneath a Trojan Moon
Relda Dela-Cruz is a fortune teller and quite an entrepreneur. She is building quite a nice little business on the world of Souk. But when one of her treasure is seen by the bad guys, they want to steal it from her. Enter marshal Hunt Calder a former Special Forces Captain. He is quite taken with Relda and determines to save her from the bad guys Relda is quite taken with Hunt too but she is very much more than just a simple shop keeper and fortune teller. She has untold powers that she it trying to hide to keep from being captured and killed as so many like her have. Thus she tried to maintain a distance from Hunt, having learned from experience how dangerous it is to trust the wrong person.
Though as I said earlier this is quite a short story; I read in only a few hours, considering the length, it was quite good. Certainly I enjoyed it enough to check out some of this author’s other works. There was a brief scene with characters from previous book that I really want to learn more about.
This book comes across somewhat as a galactic western. And since I love westerns, I was really pleased when I finished this. A genre I liked, the possibility of more books, a squeal of a deal on price, I’m glad I picked up Beneath a Trojan Moon
June 2, 2016
Relda has a big ol' secret. She's not just a fortune-teller and business woman. She's pretty much the last of a powerful psychic race and there are those who will not rest until she's dead or in their hands. But when the ex spec-ops Marshal takes an interest in her she may just make it out alive. Souk may be a market world but it's just what Hunt is looking for. He's tired of war and just wants to keep those under his care safe. But why is he drawn to the exotic Relda and her entourage of orphaned girls? Will he be able to keep her safe and just what is this moon that the bad guys are hunting?
Space cowboys - what is not to love!!!! Damsel in distress (but capable of annihilating the bad guys if she wants to), sexy, savvy and downright lovable Marshal who wants to get under the shell of the exotic fortune-teller/businesswoman/orphan caregiver. I couldn't fault this in anyway!!! I want more!!!!!!!!!!!!
Space cowboys - what is not to love!!!! Damsel in distress (but capable of annihilating the bad guys if she wants to), sexy, savvy and downright lovable Marshal who wants to get under the shell of the exotic fortune-teller/businesswoman/orphan caregiver. I couldn't fault this in anyway!!! I want more!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 5, 2015
I found this a nice and lively story about a fortune teller who can read auras on a distant planet. She hides the fact that she's of an unusual and powerful race. Someone is sending thugs after her and her jewel known as the Trojan Moon.
There's a vivid romance - I actually thought the adult scenes detracted from the story as they removed the sense of urgency and tension. But the romance itself makes sense and ties the other elements nicely.
I also liked the use of the astronomy term a Trojan moon.
There's a vivid romance - I actually thought the adult scenes detracted from the story as they removed the sense of urgency and tension. But the romance itself makes sense and ties the other elements nicely.
I also liked the use of the astronomy term a Trojan moon.
March 11, 2016
Another Absolutely Wonderful Read by Anna Hackett
Each book is just as important to this continuing storyline as it expands the characters and supporting characters in their struggles,conquests of dangerous situations and their finding their matches in love with plenty of steamy scenes. Thoroughly enjoyed this fantastic read and every book in her terrific writing. So if I were you I'd check them out for I know you will fall in love with her wonderful characters and their stories.
Each book is just as important to this continuing storyline as it expands the characters and supporting characters in their struggles,conquests of dangerous situations and their finding their matches in love with plenty of steamy scenes. Thoroughly enjoyed this fantastic read and every book in her terrific writing. So if I were you I'd check them out for I know you will fall in love with her wonderful characters and their stories.
June 12, 2015
Sweet and Intriguing
Relda has a huge secret that she has spent her entire life trying to keep. She's settled, independent and safe or so she thought. One rumor is all it took to put her and the lives she's come to care for at risk. Hunt is the new Marshall in charge of keeping the planet safe. He a war hardened man but he may hold the key to keeping Relda from running again. Great story with interstellar species that your imagination can bring to life.
Relda has a huge secret that she has spent her entire life trying to keep. She's settled, independent and safe or so she thought. One rumor is all it took to put her and the lives she's come to care for at risk. Hunt is the new Marshall in charge of keeping the planet safe. He a war hardened man but he may hold the key to keeping Relda from running again. Great story with interstellar species that your imagination can bring to life.
June 13, 2015
I loved this book. Sci-fi action, Romance and best of all, very well written.
Humanity has moved to the stars. There are some races who have almost disappeared because they had special powers and were hunted almost to extinction.
This book tells the story of one such woman and the man who tries to save her.
I receive a copy of this book from the author. I was not paid nor asked to write a positive review.
Humanity has moved to the stars. There are some races who have almost disappeared because they had special powers and were hunted almost to extinction.
This book tells the story of one such woman and the man who tries to save her.
I receive a copy of this book from the author. I was not paid nor asked to write a positive review.
January 5, 2017
I loved this short story set in the world created for the Phoenix Adventures.
This is Relda and Hunt's story and I hope we see more of them in future books.
I love the fact that she is training girls to be fortune tellers but her predictions are absolute truth, and the fact that she thought she would have to leave after showing everyone what she could do...
This is Relda and Hunt's story and I hope we see more of them in future books.
I love the fact that she is training girls to be fortune tellers but her predictions are absolute truth, and the fact that she thought she would have to leave after showing everyone what she could do...
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