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All I wanted was a job. Instead, I got a desert planet, a low-grade fever, and a seven-foot alien shadow I call "Stabby."

Life in the caves is simple: Don’t die of planet sickness, try to make alien lizard meat taste like chicken, and ignore the massive, golden-skinned warrior sharpening his blade in the corner.

His name is Sarven. I call him Stabby McGoldy.

He doesn’t speak English, and I don’t speak "Growl."

But he watches me. Constantly. With red eyes that are terrifyingly intense and a lack of personal space that is frankly alarming.

I’m determined to stay independent. I can fetch my own water, thank you very much. I don’t need a mate. I need a life that’s less complicated and a way off this rock.

But when our clan's only water source turns toxic, survival goes from difficult to impossible.

Suddenly, my independence isn't enough. I need a hunter who can track the source of the poison before the desert claims us all. Now Stabby is stepping out of the shadows to help, and as the heat rises, I’m starting to realize that the only thing more dangerous than the water might be falling for the alien who’s decided I’m his.

(First-contact sci-fi romance with forced proximity, survival stakes, and a possessive but devoted alien hero.)

232 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 6, 2026

125 people are currently reading
188 people want to read

About the author

A.G. Wilde

44 books626 followers

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5 stars
258 (42%)
4 stars
187 (30%)
3 stars
134 (22%)
2 stars
27 (4%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Mari.
240 reviews6 followers
January 8, 2026
If you enjoy Ice Planet Barbarians, you’ll definitely love this series and this author. This is the second saga I’ve read from her, and I’ve devoured all of them. They’re so good and ridiculously addictive.

Even though each book follows a different couple, the world keeps expanding and getting richer, so it never feels repetitive. You don’t get bored reading the same story over and over again, which is exactly why, yes, I actually like these more than Ice Planet Barbarians.

I wish this was longer though 🥰 - can’t wait for the next book!
113 reviews
January 7, 2026
I feel like a peasant watching Michelangelo paint the Sistine Chapel.

I need 35 of these books yesterday. They’re sweet, funny, well paced, and interesting. This series is going to be the next big thing in alien/monster romance.

When it comes to how these men will truly be anything for their ladies, let’s just say A.G. Wilde is doing things never 👏🏻 done 👏🏻 before 👏🏻 in the alien romance genre, and I am so grateful to watch a master at work. Pardon the pun, but A.G., if you’re reading this, please do not hesitate to get ~wild~ with this. We are ready and waiting!

Counting down the days to book 4!
Profile Image for Kaitlin.
487 reviews2 followers
February 14, 2026
Ughhhh…I still love this series but this one felt like a novella that was way too long. I loved the characters but the “journey” aspect of the plot was so boring and drawn out and clunky. This series will be unstoppable if the author gets a better editor. There was one line mentioning how the light “hit his horns” but like…I don’t think these guys have horns? How did that make it in? I think it’s also getting more difficult for the author to keep track of the language barrier. I’ve caught a few moments where the aliens say or think something that I don’t think they should know about yet, like Earth concepts that don’t exist there. Anyways I’m going to keep reading the series for sure but I had to DNF near the end I just couldn’t do it.

*minor spoiler*
Also, why are they going to sleep so many times on the way to look at the water source?! Why is it taking them so long? Why is she never talking about being thirsty I was thirsty just reading how long she went without water? Also is the cave hot or cold it went back and forth and the floor breaking part that was way too dramatic with low stakes and why did they sit down and go to sleep like just keep walking lol…anyways
Profile Image for Pocket_ _Chaos.
11 reviews
January 18, 2026
Sarven is, without a doubt, my absolute favorite so far! Don’t get me wrong—I adore Rok and Tharn—but Sarven is the perfect mate in every way. Gah! This man had me in a chokehold from start to finish. I’m completely obsessed with this world and so ridiculously happy that I stumbled upon Rok’s Captive!

I am absolutely buzzing with excitement for Kol’s story! That man deserves a break after being the rock for everyone else for so long—I can’t wait to see what’s in store for him.
612 reviews56 followers
Read
January 7, 2026
Dnf 31%. Kinda cringey. Idk.
Profile Image for Savannah.
16 reviews
February 11, 2026
Fine, yes, I do like when my alien books have a knotting crossover.
4,323 reviews
March 11, 2026
Sarven’s Oath brings a slightly more humorous tone to the series while still maintaining the dangerous survival stakes of the desert world. The heroine finds herself stuck in the caves with a mysterious alien warrior she has nicknamed “Stabby,” largely because of his constant weapon sharpening and intimidating presence. Communication between them is nearly impossible at first, which leads to a series of awkward, tense, and sometimes amusing interactions. Despite her determination to remain independent, the reality of life on this hostile planet slowly forces her to accept that survival might require working together.

Sarven begins as a silent and intimidating presence, watching everything with intense focus while rarely revealing his thoughts. Beneath that intimidating exterior, however, is a warrior whose sense of duty and loyalty runs deep. As the two spend more time together, small gestures begin to reveal a protective instinct that grows stronger with every passing day. Their relationship develops gradually through shared struggles, especially when their clan faces a crisis after their only water source becomes poisoned. Themes of cooperation, resilience, and learning to rely on someone else take center stage in their growing bond.

The writing balances tension and humor beautifully, allowing the characters’ personalities to shine even in the middle of a dangerous environment. The heroine’s sarcastic inner commentary adds levity to situations that might otherwise feel overwhelming. Meanwhile, Sarven’s quiet devotion becomes more meaningful as his actions speak louder than words. Sarven’s Oath delivers a satisfying mix of survival adventure, slow building romance, and character driven storytelling set against a vivid alien landscape.

I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK!
Profile Image for Joque Bookreviewer.
331 reviews17 followers
January 9, 2026
Grumpy sunshine, IPB in desert! Loved it and can't wait for the next! (Please be Kol and Erika's book). Fun, exciting adventure, culture clashes, translator issues, alien adaptation, romance, spice, alien peen including a 🪢, and a HEA.

Series setup & backstory:
This series starts out like IPB. An abduction of many Earth women, crash landing on a desert planet that has no females of their own, & one Earth girl going for help or supplies but finding natives. That was book 1.

In book 2 another woman goes looking for the original girl who left for supplies (they're sisters) and ends up needing saving. That's how she meets Tharn'.

This is book 3 and the women have been rescued & relocated to the aliens home cave. But something is making the humans sick, and they must figure it out before they lose all of the women.

One alien is set apart from the rest. Broody, silent, hulking as he scrapes his knife in a dark corner while never taking his focus away from Mih-kay-lah.

All of the aliens long for a mate, something they never dared hope for before, is now possible- they make gifts and linger by the women while trying to appear busy. Hoping someone, anyone, will notice them. But Sarven only has eyes for one. And when their water supply is compromised, he goes with her to solve the problem. As a human scientist, Makayla thinks she can solve the issue with the water. But can she solve the issue of a 7foot alien shadow who's warm and wants to keep her safe?

This book was sweet, swoony alien goodness! Read whatever makes you happy fellow book lovers! Then tell me about it lol.
43 reviews1 follower
January 12, 2026
Another great installment but read more like a novella

Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
Romance: 😍😍😍😍 4/5
Creativity/Worldbuilding: 🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎 5/5
Heat/Chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 4/5
Graphic Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 4/5
Enjoyment/Entertainment: 🍿🍿🍿🍿🍿4/5
Storyline: 📚📚📚📚📚 5/5

Alright, so I did enjoy this next installment in her series, but I felt like it was a bit rushed. Read a bit more like a novella. We didn’t get as many glimpses into the other characters this time, either, and I really enjoy those bits. World-building and overarching plot progression was still top-notch!

I felt like this was a one-sided romance a bit as well…Mikaela didn’t really do much during the courting/lead-up part of the romancing and put up quite the resistance through it all—it was definitely all effort from Sarven. Sarven’s character I absolutely loved. Thoroughly enjoy the grumpy/silent type.

I think after this story I’d love to read one about a female character who is actually open to (dare I say, looking forward to?) a relationship with one of the Drakavs. The Drakavs are so hopeful and have been missing out on even the smallest bit of female affection it would just be so nice to see some of the human females recognize this and be more inclined to connections with them.

But anyway, we’ll see what happens with Erika and Kol. Erika has been suspicious and skeptical from the start so I doubt she will be the “open, looking-forward-to-a-relationship” fmc I’m hoping for, but we’ll see how Wilde plays the dynamic out between her and Kol. I’m still looking forward to reading it even if Erika ends up being as reluctant as Mikaela :).
Profile Image for Nicola Roche-Harris.
78 reviews
January 18, 2026
Sarven’s Oath by A.G. Wilde
Barbarians of the Dust, Book 3

The third instalment in the Barbarians of the Dust series, although calling these Drakav aliens “barbarians” feels wildly unfair. They are anything but. Think first-contact sci-fi romance with forced proximity, survival stakes, and a possessive yet utterly devoted alien hero.

Seven feet of golden, battle-scarred deliciousness, these warriors would burn worlds to protect those they love.

This book follows FMC Mikayla, a snarky, intelligent scientist, and MMC Sarven, a brooding, scarred hunter who watches her with an intensity that makes her breath hitch. The connection between them is undeniable. Sarven is certain she is his fated mate, yet the bond has not revealed itself…yet.

When danger strikes and Mikayla and her companions fall ill, Sarven’s heightened senses detect contamination in the water supply. He sets out with a team to find the source, and Mikayla, leveraging her scientific expertise, insists on joining the expedition. Along the way, they become separated from the rest of their group and inevitably, the bond finally ignites. Sarven’s body adapts to become exactly what Mikayla needs, heightening both their strength and senses in a beautifully primal and emotional way.

My View:
This is easily my favourite book in the series so far. A.G. Wilde’s world building continues to draw me in, the landscapes, culture, and alien physiology are well imagined and easily pictured. Sarven’s Oath delivers everything I love in an alien/human romance, we have forced proximity, survival tension, fated mates, and a fiercely protective hero. I absolutely loved it.
Profile Image for Molleigh Roth.
110 reviews2 followers
March 5, 2026
Rounding up to be nice lol but 2.5 stars

The main characters were sweet and entertaining enough for an easy alien romance but I just couldn't get past the contamination prior to spiciness lmao.

Still excited for the next one and the continuation of the series on this desert alien planet.
8 reviews
January 14, 2026
Came for the cornrows-on-cover, stayed for yearning alien.

A bunch of reviews on here thought they were a boring couple, but I disagree. Maybe Sarven's brand of 'looks like could kill you but is a cinnamon roll' is just a bit of me. I like em intense, and that he was.

I like that despite me entering this universe with no background information right into book three, the first paragraphs weren't just chunks of exposition. That was refreshing.

If I had to complain about anything it's that one scene where the even for classy smut, the smut just throws me out of the book for a second? Not because it's necessarily that spicy but because WHAT DO YOU MEAN BRINGING SOMEBODY BACK TO LIFE WITH SMUT? I MEAN WHAT?

That was just me, though. It was probably meant to be funny, and maybe to others it is. Idk. That's the only reason my review isn't five stars.

Stellar author though! Literally starting book one after this review because how else will I keep my sanity while waiting for the next book? Looking forward to follow the writer's journey!
Profile Image for JML.
1,344 reviews26 followers
February 8, 2026
Oh I love these Barbarians of the Sand!💖🔥🌟

Sarven is a true warrior and his mind space and heart space seem to be centered on Mikaela. These is something wrong with the water in the mountain. In the last book several of the human women get sick but the cause is unknown. Until Sarven smells something off or wrong with the water. Mikaela is now feeling the effects of the sickness but she was a science teacher back on earth and has some ideas of his to help. together she , Sarven and a few others head out to check on the main source of water crust the clan has. What they discover is a Red bacteria growing on the water that is acting like a poison. Mikaela rigs up a filter system , they discover they are being spied on by a rival clan and while all this is going on Sarven and Mikaela 's relationship blooms hotter than the fire bloom flowers the clans use to heal. Each story gets better in fully invested in our Shah planet warriors and I can wait to read Kol's book next. Highly recommend🌟🔥💖🔥🌟🌟🔥💖💖🌟🔥🔥🌟💖🔥🌟💖🔥🌟💖🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖💖🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖🌟💖🔥🔥
Profile Image for CorkDork11.
13 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy
January 5, 2026
Spoiler free review:
Book 3 of Barbarians of the Dust picks up with grouchy, scowl-y, Sarven and analytical scientist Mikaela. I highly recommend reading the previous 2 books so you better understand the situation these earth women find themselves in...also, because they're really freaking good!
Mikaela and Sarven find themselves cut off from the main group after they leave to investigate an unknown threat, deeper in the mountain. They are forced to tackle one challenge after another, becoming closer and closer along the way as they make their way back to camp, and figure out how to keep the group safe.
Sarven's inner monologue had me giggling more than once, and his banter with Mikaela was as hot as it was sweet. As usual, A.G. Wilde does not disappoint with this book and I'm very much looking forward to the next!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Carole.
2,275 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy
January 6, 2026
Sarven’s Oath is the third book of the Barbarians of the Dust series with the newest couple soon to be Mikaela and Sarven. Well she would rather it not be but circumstances will soon prove her wrong… if only those fever dreams involving a certain warrior would stop.
I enjoyed this newest addition to the storyline that was nicely written with wonderful characterizations, and filled with action, adventure, intrigue, danger, passion, and spice. Loved when Sarven and Mikaela FINALLY bonded which really kicked into high gear when the group discovers their water has been tainted and Mikaela insists on going with Sarven to the water source in the hope of finding out why.
Another dynamic read and I am looking forward to the other ladies finding their bond mates, and the stories to come.
This couple received their HEA but the threats continue for our little tribe of Drakav and humans.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Racheal.
685 reviews12 followers
March 11, 2026
Dang, these Barbarians of the Dust can't catch a break! On a world that is already terrifying and dangerous, another threat lurks. This book focuses on Sarven and Mikaela as they venture through the mountain to find the source of the water that's causing sickness in the human females. While they do find a quick solution, the danger definitely is going to continue into the next book.
That said, it was sweet getting to see Sarven and Mikaela team up together and fall a little closer together on their journey. I loved how Sarven put serious thought into his gift to Mikaela and how he could connect with her. I also loved how he used his words with her, knowing that mind speak wouldn't be possible. Mikaela on the other hand, was a very caring and brave person who you couldn't help but admire.
My only complaint with this book is that it had a slightly slower pace at times as they journeyed through the caves. Still, it was an enjoyable read and a good addition to the series.
182 reviews
January 7, 2026
4.5 stars

I enjoyed Mikaela and Sarven's journey to their HEA. Mikaela has grit, determination, and stubbornness that helps her motor through situations. Sarven is there with loyalty and dedication to help Mikaela when she falters. Sarven's thoughtfulness and protective ways pull Mikaela in and has her realizing this is the alien for her. Sarven has always felt a pull for Mikaela. He thinks she's beautiful, brave, stubborn, and smart. The two are a good couple. They are Tor-vakh, having each other's back forever.



This book has a good storyline, characters, humor (those one sided convos are funny, as are the chapter headings for each book), action and adventure, and love.

Another good read in this series. Can't wait for Kol's book.
Profile Image for Lauren.
428 reviews3 followers
Read
January 12, 2026
I think this was my least favourite of the series so far.

The storyline felt really original and I liked how Mikaela’s science knowledge came in useful and ended up essentially saving everyone.

I wish there was more of a build up between the characters and more of a language barrier. The blurb makes it seem as though Sarven can’t speak any English but he was fluent enough to be able to be understood in all situations. It also seemed a bit of a 180 from the previous books and how painful they found it to talk, to then using words regularly with the women.

I am excited for Kol’s book and to see where the rest of the story goes.
129 reviews
January 22, 2026
Sarven’s Oath continues to impress with its rich world-building and the way the larger story of human women stranded on a harsh, dust-filled planet with alien males keeps expanding. While the individual bonding story is engaging and filled with chemistry and intimacy, what truly stands out is how the overall plot deepens, adding twists and layers to the universe.
Each book builds on the last, making the world feel more alive and interconnected. I’m completely invested in where this is going—though it’s a little frustrating that the next book isn’t available yet. A captivating read that makes the wait worthwhile.
Profile Image for Alex.
372 reviews3 followers
March 29, 2026
4.5/5 stars. Sarven and Mikaela were such strong characters in terms of their characterization and personality. The plot was interesting and I felt like I was kept on edge through a large part of the book as they are trying to survive and solve the mystery of the poisoned water. The pacing was great, and I’m excited to see where the rest of the series goes.

Sarven is head over heels obsessed with Mikaela from first sight. I don’t think I’ve read a book with this much yearning from an MMC in such a long time. Mikaela is also a very strong, competent, and smart FMC.
13 reviews
March 18, 2026
A must read!

A.G. Wilde has a knack for writing believable characters with unique personalities. The stakes are high, and the payoff is rewarding! My favorite part about this author's writing style is that the struggle doesn't come from a flimsy misunderstanding that could have been avoided by communication between partners. Wilde shows a healthy relationship dynamic I wish could be found more often in the romance genre. Well done, Wilde! I look forward to your future books!
Profile Image for Michelle.
520 reviews2 followers
January 18, 2026
This was such a good book! Throughout the series so far they've all been really strong characters. I loved the strength and snark in the main female character and the strength and confidence in the main male character. The humor, the action, and just the world building in general continues to keep me wanting more! Each book in the series just has it all!
Profile Image for Maddie.
831 reviews5 followers
February 10, 2026
I really like this world and the struggles the humans have to go through to actually make it habitable. However, sometimes the pacing feels off because it is trying to be a contained story but also fit into the greater narrative. I also fear that the miscommunication troupe is going to get old soon…
334 reviews1 follower
February 23, 2026
Sarven and Mikala

I was worried this story would be too much like the last one, but It definitely wasn't. Mikala is so much different than the other women due to her science background. She brings a lot to the group. I love Sarven and how much he waits and hopes and how good he is for her. Great story.
Profile Image for mailen.
280 reviews3 followers
March 24, 2026
I thought this was the last book and was excited to get closure on what happens to the girls but there’s another book coming out later this year 😭

Didn’t enjoy this book much because I was reading basically the same romance for the third time, but at least it was short and had a different background plot.
Profile Image for Marianne.
7,384 reviews89 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 2, 2026
This is an amazing sci-fi/fated mate romance! I liked it a lot.. It has wonderful detail and suspense. Very appealing characters!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
70 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy
January 3, 2026
I love me a short-lived story with drama and sass my time of read when I need a break from school stuff thanks 😊 definitely reccomended.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amber Germann.
25 reviews
January 7, 2026
Love this series!

I absolutely love these books and the characters. I find myself chuckling at the drakav. The way that these two interact is touching and adorable. I am always on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book in the series. Can't wait!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews