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Elanie & the Empath
Half-human. Half-machine. Totally unprepared for love.
I wasn’t built for emotions. I was built for efficiency. As a bionic, I’ve spent my life working aboard my interstellar pleasure cruise in rational, dispassionate contentment. But when I finally install my long-overdue hormone upgrade, everything changes. Fast. Suddenly, I’m distressed, overwhelmed, and alarmed daily by my changing body. I need help. And even though Dr. Semson, the ship’s empathic physician, is handsome, I suppose, with his blue skin and smooth voice and swoopy silver hair, he’s the last person I want to see about my puberty issues. Since empaths can’t read bionic emotions, we scare them, and they tend to avoid us.
But he’s all I’ve got.
Sem is kinder than I thought he’d be. And I know it’s inappropriate, maybe even wrong, the way every brush of his hands during my medical exams sets my skin on fire. But when he tries to explain the changes I’m going through, using calmly stated words like aroused and sensation, even when he draws me diagrams, I only find myself more…confused.
While my feelings spiral out of control, something sinister creeps through the Known Universe. Bionics are disappearing. Leaving their posts in the dead of night. And when I hear a voice, deep and coaxing and calling me to join him, I have no choice but to steal an escape pod and run.
And for some bewildering reason, Sem follows.
We crash together on a frozen, uncharted planet, with only one cave to protect us. The bitter cold bites, but the heat between us builds. Every night by the fire, every accidental touch, pulls us closer to something we’ve both been denying. But the voice is waiting for me, and when it returns, it leads us to a seductive hidden community that seems like paradise. But this place and its leader aren’t what they seem. And soon we’re fighting for our lives again. For our future.
Because this fire between us? It’s more than desire. It’s more than lust. It’s the one thing that might save us both.
From the author of Come As You Are comes a scorching sci-fi romance adventure for fans of The Murderbot Diaries, Ice Planet Barbarians, and forbidden, slow burn, high stakes love stories.
Content notes: This story contains descriptions and discussions of medical situations, doctor/patient entanglements (the romance develops only after this relationship is resolved), teacher/student dynamics, a secret hedonistic community, use of mind-altering substances, explicit and graphic sexual content, difficult family dynamics, and people repeatedly risking life and limb for each other while insisting that they are not in love.
I wasn’t built for emotions. I was built for efficiency. As a bionic, I’ve spent my life working aboard my interstellar pleasure cruise in rational, dispassionate contentment. But when I finally install my long-overdue hormone upgrade, everything changes. Fast. Suddenly, I’m distressed, overwhelmed, and alarmed daily by my changing body. I need help. And even though Dr. Semson, the ship’s empathic physician, is handsome, I suppose, with his blue skin and smooth voice and swoopy silver hair, he’s the last person I want to see about my puberty issues. Since empaths can’t read bionic emotions, we scare them, and they tend to avoid us.
But he’s all I’ve got.
Sem is kinder than I thought he’d be. And I know it’s inappropriate, maybe even wrong, the way every brush of his hands during my medical exams sets my skin on fire. But when he tries to explain the changes I’m going through, using calmly stated words like aroused and sensation, even when he draws me diagrams, I only find myself more…confused.
While my feelings spiral out of control, something sinister creeps through the Known Universe. Bionics are disappearing. Leaving their posts in the dead of night. And when I hear a voice, deep and coaxing and calling me to join him, I have no choice but to steal an escape pod and run.
And for some bewildering reason, Sem follows.
We crash together on a frozen, uncharted planet, with only one cave to protect us. The bitter cold bites, but the heat between us builds. Every night by the fire, every accidental touch, pulls us closer to something we’ve both been denying. But the voice is waiting for me, and when it returns, it leads us to a seductive hidden community that seems like paradise. But this place and its leader aren’t what they seem. And soon we’re fighting for our lives again. For our future.
Because this fire between us? It’s more than desire. It’s more than lust. It’s the one thing that might save us both.
From the author of Come As You Are comes a scorching sci-fi romance adventure for fans of The Murderbot Diaries, Ice Planet Barbarians, and forbidden, slow burn, high stakes love stories.
Content notes: This story contains descriptions and discussions of medical situations, doctor/patient entanglements (the romance develops only after this relationship is resolved), teacher/student dynamics, a secret hedonistic community, use of mind-altering substances, explicit and graphic sexual content, difficult family dynamics, and people repeatedly risking life and limb for each other while insisting that they are not in love.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 23, 2025
8 people are currently reading
1255 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 1, 2025
I pre-ordered this book as soon as it was possible. Shortly thereafter, Hardy put out a call in her newsletter for ARC readers. I told myself I was going to for once wait like a normal person for my release-date copy. And then I saw on Hardy's socials she put it up on Netgalley. And I caved. I am a weak woman in the face of early-book-access-FOMO.
I can truly say I'm glad I caved (pun intended because a cave features prominently in this book) because this book is worth the early hype.
Elanie & The Empath pick up where Sunastara & The Venusian left off. It helps if you read that book first, but it's not necessary.
Elanie a sentient bionic assistant on a pleasure space cruise installs a puberty update to her system and starts spiraling to the point she seeks the guidance of the ship's on board doctor, Dr. Semson. Who is of course a hot empathic alien. Sem is intrigued by Elanie because as an empath he can't read bionics.
Without giving too much away, Elanie and Sem find themselves on a distant planet where Elanie has been summoned to by a mysterious force. From there, it's a sci-fi adventure with a healthy dose of a slow burn/one cave (bed) romance.
Hardy does an amazing job with her world building and it doesn't feel overwhelming (especially to a mostly non-sci-fi reader like myself).
One note to the "Books shouldn't be political!!!" pearl-clutchers: this book is definitely not for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for indulging me in my advanced copy FOMO.
I can truly say I'm glad I caved (pun intended because a cave features prominently in this book) because this book is worth the early hype.
Elanie & The Empath pick up where Sunastara & The Venusian left off. It helps if you read that book first, but it's not necessary.
Elanie a sentient bionic assistant on a pleasure space cruise installs a puberty update to her system and starts spiraling to the point she seeks the guidance of the ship's on board doctor, Dr. Semson. Who is of course a hot empathic alien. Sem is intrigued by Elanie because as an empath he can't read bionics.
Without giving too much away, Elanie and Sem find themselves on a distant planet where Elanie has been summoned to by a mysterious force. From there, it's a sci-fi adventure with a healthy dose of a slow burn/one cave (bed) romance.
Hardy does an amazing job with her world building and it doesn't feel overwhelming (especially to a mostly non-sci-fi reader like myself).
One note to the "Books shouldn't be political!!!" pearl-clutchers: this book is definitely not for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for indulging me in my advanced copy FOMO.
September 18, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Feelings are confusing, especially if you are a half-human. Bionic Elanie is more confused than ever after receiving her newest upgrade. A mix of emotions and body changes has her seeking out the advice of the ship’s grumpy physician Sem. Empath Sem doesn’t know how he’ll be able to help Elanie between her unreadable feelings and his developing crush.
Elanie & the Empath is the second book in the Space Cruise Romance series. This book was previously published under the title I, Bionic as part of the author’s Ignisar series. Some light editing and additions have been made to the original but overall it’s the same spicy sci-fi love story. This romance does include open-door content. While it could be read as a stand-alone, I would highly recommend reading book one, Sunastara & the Venusian, first for context.
We are back to the Ignisar for another fun and flirty romp. A good chunk of the story does take place off-ship but we still see plenty of the beloved crew throughout the book. Elanie & the Empath has everything I like to see in a sci-fi romance. There’s humor, spice, and life-or-death situations. What more could I ask for? I loved seeing more of Elanie and Sunny’s relationship. They have a sort of quirky, sister-like bond and it really shows while Elanie is struggling.
This is the series that really introduced me to this author’s writing, particularly this book. Elanie and Sem’s story is just as delightful now as it was the first time I read about them. I look forward to reading whatever Jess K. Hardy has next for her readers, whatever the genre may be.
Feelings are confusing, especially if you are a half-human. Bionic Elanie is more confused than ever after receiving her newest upgrade. A mix of emotions and body changes has her seeking out the advice of the ship’s grumpy physician Sem. Empath Sem doesn’t know how he’ll be able to help Elanie between her unreadable feelings and his developing crush.
Elanie & the Empath is the second book in the Space Cruise Romance series. This book was previously published under the title I, Bionic as part of the author’s Ignisar series. Some light editing and additions have been made to the original but overall it’s the same spicy sci-fi love story. This romance does include open-door content. While it could be read as a stand-alone, I would highly recommend reading book one, Sunastara & the Venusian, first for context.
We are back to the Ignisar for another fun and flirty romp. A good chunk of the story does take place off-ship but we still see plenty of the beloved crew throughout the book. Elanie & the Empath has everything I like to see in a sci-fi romance. There’s humor, spice, and life-or-death situations. What more could I ask for? I loved seeing more of Elanie and Sunny’s relationship. They have a sort of quirky, sister-like bond and it really shows while Elanie is struggling.
This is the series that really introduced me to this author’s writing, particularly this book. Elanie and Sem’s story is just as delightful now as it was the first time I read about them. I look forward to reading whatever Jess K. Hardy has next for her readers, whatever the genre may be.
September 17, 2025
Can I go live on the Ignisar? Visit? Because I absolutely adore this crew and their stories. We saw Elanie get her bionic hormone upgrade at the end of Sunastara & the Venusian, and in her own book we get everything you could ever want about the trials and tribulations of a bionic/organic hybrid going through puberty as an "adult." Oh, the feelings!
If you think a combination of Murderbot, I Robot, Good Deeds (the Kathryn Moon book), and Ice Planet Barbarians sounds fun, this one will be right up your alley!
Not only do we get a sort of "coming of age" story with this one, we also get a story about finding freedom from a job where bionics are essentially owned by the corporation and have very little rights or time to themselves. We get a story about friendships, about relationships, and about learning how to deal with emotions you are not ready for (and can be really inconvenient).
Having Dr. Semson be our MMC, that bumbling, awkward Portisan with a severe case of "foot in mouth" at the most inopportune times, was a great counterpoint to Elanie's more blunt communication style.
The majority of Elanie's story actually takes place off the Ignisar, but we do get a lot of great interactions with the crew before she and Sem end up crash landed on a planet full of ice in a cave. The slow burn to conflagration of Elanie and Sem's relationship is so damn good. And the last few chapters... no spoilers but they are frustrating and nerve-wracking and sweet and heart-stopping.
This is another great book by the author, and I will follow the crew of the Ignisar anywhere in the Known Universe. I read this early as an ARC, and all opinions are my own.
If you think a combination of Murderbot, I Robot, Good Deeds (the Kathryn Moon book), and Ice Planet Barbarians sounds fun, this one will be right up your alley!
Not only do we get a sort of "coming of age" story with this one, we also get a story about finding freedom from a job where bionics are essentially owned by the corporation and have very little rights or time to themselves. We get a story about friendships, about relationships, and about learning how to deal with emotions you are not ready for (and can be really inconvenient).
Having Dr. Semson be our MMC, that bumbling, awkward Portisan with a severe case of "foot in mouth" at the most inopportune times, was a great counterpoint to Elanie's more blunt communication style.
The majority of Elanie's story actually takes place off the Ignisar, but we do get a lot of great interactions with the crew before she and Sem end up crash landed on a planet full of ice in a cave. The slow burn to conflagration of Elanie and Sem's relationship is so damn good. And the last few chapters... no spoilers but they are frustrating and nerve-wracking and sweet and heart-stopping.
This is another great book by the author, and I will follow the crew of the Ignisar anywhere in the Known Universe. I read this early as an ARC, and all opinions are my own.
October 13, 2025
Jess loves to make me cry, and I say thank you every time.
Sometimes when it comes to interconnected standalones that feature new MCs in every book, I have a hard time connecting, especially if I connected with a specific MC in particular. However, Jess has this amazing way of writing her books that makes me feel connected to every character. There has yet to be a time when I saw one of her books and thought, "Nah, that character didn't really do it for me." I loved Elanie in SATV, and getting to know her in-depth through EATE was so rewarding. She was complex, she was relatable, and I firmly believe that she asked all the questions that so many women and girls are afraid to ask out loud but absolutely have had. And Sem was an absolute delight to read as well.
This story was gripping, romantic, exciting, and even more than I'd hoped it would be. Easy 5 stars and endless recommendations from me on this one. A+, Jess!
Sometimes when it comes to interconnected standalones that feature new MCs in every book, I have a hard time connecting, especially if I connected with a specific MC in particular. However, Jess has this amazing way of writing her books that makes me feel connected to every character. There has yet to be a time when I saw one of her books and thought, "Nah, that character didn't really do it for me." I loved Elanie in SATV, and getting to know her in-depth through EATE was so rewarding. She was complex, she was relatable, and I firmly believe that she asked all the questions that so many women and girls are afraid to ask out loud but absolutely have had. And Sem was an absolute delight to read as well.
This story was gripping, romantic, exciting, and even more than I'd hoped it would be. Easy 5 stars and endless recommendations from me on this one. A+, Jess!
September 27, 2025
ARC REVIEW (Thanks NETGALLEY!)
Ohh I think this is my favorite of the series so far!!
I loved Elanie and Sem! After the ending of Sunstara I assumed this book was just going to be a horny romp after Elanie does her hormone upgrade but nooo! Sem and Elanie were just what each other needed. They fit together so perfectly. This book isn’t as campy as the others in the series it was a great change of pace.
Ohh I think this is my favorite of the series so far!!
I loved Elanie and Sem! After the ending of Sunstara I assumed this book was just going to be a horny romp after Elanie does her hormone upgrade but nooo! Sem and Elanie were just what each other needed. They fit together so perfectly. This book isn’t as campy as the others in the series it was a great change of pace.
October 19, 2025
My ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I just love this author and the universes she creates.
November 11, 2025
DNF. Hardy is an automatic read for me, but this one was disappointing.
October 23, 2025
REVIEW
cw: brief mention of child loss, themes of enslavement
As a bionic, who's part organic, part AI, Elanie has spent her life working aboard an interstellar pleasure cruise in rational, dispassionate contentment. But when she finally installs her long-overdue hormone upgrade, everything changes. Dr. Semson, the ship’s empathic physician, is the last person she wants to see about her puberty issues. Since empaths can’t read bionic emotions, they tend to avoid them. But suddenly he's all she's got.
Jess K. Hardy writes the most beautiful, unexpected stories, and this was no exception. I absolutely adored the first book in this series, and if possible, I loved this one even more.
I loved Elanie's no-nonsense side, but also her (reluctantly) vulnerable side. The scene where she borrows Sem's mirror was as adorably awkward as every early interaction with him. But I loved that Sunny tried to help her. Blake was such a clueless idiot, so I was very happy when she dumped him early on. My heart broke for Elanie, though, when she spoke about the reality of being a bionic. The setup for the Thura storyline was well-crafted, and the chapters in the cave were some of my favourites, especially as Elanie and Sem slowly let down their walls and grew closer.
Sem was so adorably awkward and discombobulated around Elanie early on, and their introduction made me giggle. But he was also such an absolute sweetheart. I loved how utterly smitten he was with her. But my heart broke for Sem when he revealed the reason he'd ended up working on the Ignisar, and how he was perceived by his family.
The chemistry between Sem and Elanie simmered right from the start, but I loved how they slowly revealed their attraction and feelings for each other. The intimacy was beautifully written yet also steamy, and Sem's special 'feature' was ingenious (IYKYK).
I thought the themes of servitude and workers' rights were explored sensitively and were particularly well-written. My heart ached especially for Elanie and the other bionics when we learned just how little downtime and time off they were allowed.
It was wonderful to catch up with the rest of the Ignisar crew, especially Sunny and Freddie, and Rax was hilarious, but this story, quite rightly, focused on Elanie, Sem, and bionics in general. It was easy to see how Elanie might finally think she'd found her own utopia on Thura. I won’t spoil the details, but the dichotomy Sem and Elanie faced while there was SO well-written. I loved Maximus. He was so sassy. Meanwhile, my heart broke for Mal and his siblings, but chapter thirty-six ripped that same heart out, and chapter thirty-seven stomped on it. *shakes fist at Jess*
Thankfully, even though the author can be a big meanie at times (affectionately), she ALWAYS delivers a happy ending, and my ugly crying changed to the happiest of happy tears by the final chapter, not only because of the romantic outcome, but Elanie's focus.
This was an absolutely gorgeous story of love and overcoming adversity. All of the inter-galactic stars!
Overall Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥.5
*Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. Elanie & the Empath is published today in the UK*
Favourite Quotes:
Puberty left no being’s self-confidence unscathed. Not even, evidently, a bionic’s.
“I won’t qualify for my first day off for another twenty-three years, forty-two days, and sixteen hours,” I said. “But who’s counting.”
Maybe I wanted something other than a life of unending service. Maybe I wanted a hobby. Maybe I wanted a passion. Maybe…I wanted more—
“You should be more careful,” she said, her nostrils flaring. Definitely annoyed. “Pay more attention.”
Elanie, I couldn’t pay more attention to you if I tried.
We were bonded now, on this frozen tundra. We were ice melting and reforming. We were snowflakes swirling through the air, our crystalline branches reaching out for one another, spanning space and time until we finally made contact.
"I could tell at our first visit that you didn’t like me.”
“Saints, Elanie.” My heart sank, landing somewhere near my stomach. “I have never not liked you.” I liked you too much, I thought. More than I should have. Probably more than I should now.
“I didn’t ask for this life. And maybe it’s our fault because we never complain. But how could we? We’re too busy. We’re too tightly controlled. Even our union is only allowed to meet for one hour every six months. We don’t have a voice.”
“It twitched,” I gasped, pointing. “I just saw it twitch.”
“Yeah, well.” He bent down, grabbed his sailboat boxers and slid them back on. “That happens sometimes.” While he adjusted himself, he muttered something that sounded a lot like, “Bite your lip like that and expect me not to get hard.”
I wondered what we could become if we had more time here. If we had forever. I wanted that. Stars, I wanted forever here with him.
I’d take any pain the worlds could inflict on me as long as she was safe in my arms at the end.
I heard myself muttering things in her ear. Things I wouldn’t remember saying. Things she probably wouldn’t remember hearing. Things I wanted to say to her over and over again for the rest of our lives. Because that’s what I wanted with her.
“These worlds I live in, the beings all around me, even my own programming have always wanted me to be alone. And I’ve been okay with it. I’ve been fine. But now, here, with you…” Her eyes glistened, silver pooling along her lids. “I don’t want to be alone anymore.”
Elanie was worth the risk. She was worth every risk. And I would do everything in my power to survive so I could finally tell her that.
“I’m not leaving. I’ll just be lost, but you can find me.”
“I think they were the best cave partner a being could ever ask for. Maybe that’s why I never want to wake up from these dreams. Maybe that’s why, when I do, I try my hardest to fall asleep again, just so I can go back."
cw: brief mention of child loss, themes of enslavement
As a bionic, who's part organic, part AI, Elanie has spent her life working aboard an interstellar pleasure cruise in rational, dispassionate contentment. But when she finally installs her long-overdue hormone upgrade, everything changes. Dr. Semson, the ship’s empathic physician, is the last person she wants to see about her puberty issues. Since empaths can’t read bionic emotions, they tend to avoid them. But suddenly he's all she's got.
Jess K. Hardy writes the most beautiful, unexpected stories, and this was no exception. I absolutely adored the first book in this series, and if possible, I loved this one even more.
I loved Elanie's no-nonsense side, but also her (reluctantly) vulnerable side. The scene where she borrows Sem's mirror was as adorably awkward as every early interaction with him. But I loved that Sunny tried to help her. Blake was such a clueless idiot, so I was very happy when she dumped him early on. My heart broke for Elanie, though, when she spoke about the reality of being a bionic. The setup for the Thura storyline was well-crafted, and the chapters in the cave were some of my favourites, especially as Elanie and Sem slowly let down their walls and grew closer.
Sem was so adorably awkward and discombobulated around Elanie early on, and their introduction made me giggle. But he was also such an absolute sweetheart. I loved how utterly smitten he was with her. But my heart broke for Sem when he revealed the reason he'd ended up working on the Ignisar, and how he was perceived by his family.
The chemistry between Sem and Elanie simmered right from the start, but I loved how they slowly revealed their attraction and feelings for each other. The intimacy was beautifully written yet also steamy, and Sem's special 'feature' was ingenious (IYKYK).
I thought the themes of servitude and workers' rights were explored sensitively and were particularly well-written. My heart ached especially for Elanie and the other bionics when we learned just how little downtime and time off they were allowed.
It was wonderful to catch up with the rest of the Ignisar crew, especially Sunny and Freddie, and Rax was hilarious, but this story, quite rightly, focused on Elanie, Sem, and bionics in general. It was easy to see how Elanie might finally think she'd found her own utopia on Thura. I won’t spoil the details, but the dichotomy Sem and Elanie faced while there was SO well-written. I loved Maximus. He was so sassy. Meanwhile, my heart broke for Mal and his siblings, but chapter thirty-six ripped that same heart out, and chapter thirty-seven stomped on it. *shakes fist at Jess*
Thankfully, even though the author can be a big meanie at times (affectionately), she ALWAYS delivers a happy ending, and my ugly crying changed to the happiest of happy tears by the final chapter, not only because of the romantic outcome, but Elanie's focus.
This was an absolutely gorgeous story of love and overcoming adversity. All of the inter-galactic stars!
Overall Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥.5
*Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. Elanie & the Empath is published today in the UK*
Favourite Quotes:
Puberty left no being’s self-confidence unscathed. Not even, evidently, a bionic’s.
“I won’t qualify for my first day off for another twenty-three years, forty-two days, and sixteen hours,” I said. “But who’s counting.”
Maybe I wanted something other than a life of unending service. Maybe I wanted a hobby. Maybe I wanted a passion. Maybe…I wanted more—
“You should be more careful,” she said, her nostrils flaring. Definitely annoyed. “Pay more attention.”
Elanie, I couldn’t pay more attention to you if I tried.
We were bonded now, on this frozen tundra. We were ice melting and reforming. We were snowflakes swirling through the air, our crystalline branches reaching out for one another, spanning space and time until we finally made contact.
"I could tell at our first visit that you didn’t like me.”
“Saints, Elanie.” My heart sank, landing somewhere near my stomach. “I have never not liked you.” I liked you too much, I thought. More than I should have. Probably more than I should now.
“I didn’t ask for this life. And maybe it’s our fault because we never complain. But how could we? We’re too busy. We’re too tightly controlled. Even our union is only allowed to meet for one hour every six months. We don’t have a voice.”
“It twitched,” I gasped, pointing. “I just saw it twitch.”
“Yeah, well.” He bent down, grabbed his sailboat boxers and slid them back on. “That happens sometimes.” While he adjusted himself, he muttered something that sounded a lot like, “Bite your lip like that and expect me not to get hard.”
I wondered what we could become if we had more time here. If we had forever. I wanted that. Stars, I wanted forever here with him.
I’d take any pain the worlds could inflict on me as long as she was safe in my arms at the end.
I heard myself muttering things in her ear. Things I wouldn’t remember saying. Things she probably wouldn’t remember hearing. Things I wanted to say to her over and over again for the rest of our lives. Because that’s what I wanted with her.
“These worlds I live in, the beings all around me, even my own programming have always wanted me to be alone. And I’ve been okay with it. I’ve been fine. But now, here, with you…” Her eyes glistened, silver pooling along her lids. “I don’t want to be alone anymore.”
Elanie was worth the risk. She was worth every risk. And I would do everything in my power to survive so I could finally tell her that.
“I’m not leaving. I’ll just be lost, but you can find me.”
“I think they were the best cave partner a being could ever ask for. Maybe that’s why I never want to wake up from these dreams. Maybe that’s why, when I do, I try my hardest to fall asleep again, just so I can go back."
September 19, 2025
Thank you so much to Ms. Hardy and the publisher for this ARC.
Oh, this was such a fun book. I breezed through it so quickly, and was bummed to have to say goodbye to these characters. It’s never a dull moment on the Ignisar.
Elanie is a bionic, half humanoid half machine, who has recently upgraded to a new program that floods her with hormones. Now she’s suddenly feeling emotions she’s never felt before and doesn’t know how to cope. She goes to Dr. Semson, the ship’s empathic doctor to get help.
Dr. Semson is an empath who uses his ability to sense others’ emotions to help treat ailments and illnesses. Who he is unable to read, however, are bionics. When Elanie comes to him for help regarding all of the hormonal changes she is experiencing, he can’t help the attraction he feels, though he tries his very best to stay professional.
All is not as it seems, however. Bionics have started disappearing. When Elanie begins to hear a voice urging her to join him, her program glitches, and she finds herself unable to ignore the call. Catching her in the act of trying to steal an escape pod, Sem rushes to her side in order to prevent her from escaping and potentially harming herself. Unable to stop the pod from ejecting from the ship, they’re on course to a mysterious planet. Landing in a frozen tundra, they hide out in a cave until Elanie hears the call to go to Thura. Once there, it seems like they’ve arrived to a paradise where all bionics are free, but something sinister lurks underneath. Can they escape this planet, and get back home?
First of all, there’s so much wonderful goodness to unpack in this novel. Elanie and Sem are fantastic. Though they take different approaches to life, they complement each other well. Sem is a kind and caring man who does his best to support Elanie on her quest for freedom. In this world, bionics are seen as the workers, catering to the needs of other beings. Essentially, they were designed to be the workforce. Sem sees Elanie for who she is and not what she can do. He genuinely loves her, and it was moving to watch their relationship blossom as Elanie goes through the trials of puberty and tries to better understand herself. He’s patient and loving and was an all around great hero.
Elanie is so earnest and lovable. Her frank demeanor made way for some very humorous moments. As she grapples with the new feelings and sensations in her body, she quickly learns that there’s more to life than work. She longs for love and freedom and will stop at nothing to reach for them. Her character arc was lovely as she slowly grows into her new normal. She hasn’t lost her essence or the core of who she is, but rather gains a more meaningful sense of purpose. There were just so many wonderful qualities to both of them.
What’s really great about this novel is its captivating plot and well rounded characters. There’s also an interesting discussion regarding classism and the problems with capitalism. Ultimately, a workforce is created to work themselves to the bone without a chance for a meaningful life to serve a corporation. It’s hard to miss the parallels to the current climate in the US, where workers’ wages are stalled and not proportional to the cost of living. People work to survive, and many do not have the luxury to take vacations or have moments of pleasure. In Ms. Hardy’s fictional world, we get a glimpse of the future dangers should we not make changes.
This was really great! I thoroughly enjoyed it, and crave more stories from the crew of Ignisar.
Oh, this was such a fun book. I breezed through it so quickly, and was bummed to have to say goodbye to these characters. It’s never a dull moment on the Ignisar.
Elanie is a bionic, half humanoid half machine, who has recently upgraded to a new program that floods her with hormones. Now she’s suddenly feeling emotions she’s never felt before and doesn’t know how to cope. She goes to Dr. Semson, the ship’s empathic doctor to get help.
Dr. Semson is an empath who uses his ability to sense others’ emotions to help treat ailments and illnesses. Who he is unable to read, however, are bionics. When Elanie comes to him for help regarding all of the hormonal changes she is experiencing, he can’t help the attraction he feels, though he tries his very best to stay professional.
All is not as it seems, however. Bionics have started disappearing. When Elanie begins to hear a voice urging her to join him, her program glitches, and she finds herself unable to ignore the call. Catching her in the act of trying to steal an escape pod, Sem rushes to her side in order to prevent her from escaping and potentially harming herself. Unable to stop the pod from ejecting from the ship, they’re on course to a mysterious planet. Landing in a frozen tundra, they hide out in a cave until Elanie hears the call to go to Thura. Once there, it seems like they’ve arrived to a paradise where all bionics are free, but something sinister lurks underneath. Can they escape this planet, and get back home?
First of all, there’s so much wonderful goodness to unpack in this novel. Elanie and Sem are fantastic. Though they take different approaches to life, they complement each other well. Sem is a kind and caring man who does his best to support Elanie on her quest for freedom. In this world, bionics are seen as the workers, catering to the needs of other beings. Essentially, they were designed to be the workforce. Sem sees Elanie for who she is and not what she can do. He genuinely loves her, and it was moving to watch their relationship blossom as Elanie goes through the trials of puberty and tries to better understand herself. He’s patient and loving and was an all around great hero.
Elanie is so earnest and lovable. Her frank demeanor made way for some very humorous moments. As she grapples with the new feelings and sensations in her body, she quickly learns that there’s more to life than work. She longs for love and freedom and will stop at nothing to reach for them. Her character arc was lovely as she slowly grows into her new normal. She hasn’t lost her essence or the core of who she is, but rather gains a more meaningful sense of purpose. There were just so many wonderful qualities to both of them.
What’s really great about this novel is its captivating plot and well rounded characters. There’s also an interesting discussion regarding classism and the problems with capitalism. Ultimately, a workforce is created to work themselves to the bone without a chance for a meaningful life to serve a corporation. It’s hard to miss the parallels to the current climate in the US, where workers’ wages are stalled and not proportional to the cost of living. People work to survive, and many do not have the luxury to take vacations or have moments of pleasure. In Ms. Hardy’s fictional world, we get a glimpse of the future dangers should we not make changes.
This was really great! I thoroughly enjoyed it, and crave more stories from the crew of Ignisar.
October 7, 2025
Only Jess K. Hardy can get me to read a sci fi romance between a bionic life form and the blue empath doctor who’s gone for her and leave me wanting even more steamy space romance. Elanie and the Empath is another installment in the Space Cruise Romance series, which has tons forced proximity, quippy banter, and sizzling chemistry, along with a hard look at the culture of work.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Bionic Elanie (part AI, part organic being) recently installed her hormone upgrade, and none of the overwhelming new emotions make sense to her. So she seeks out Dr. Sem Semson, the ship’s empath doctor for help. She can’t avoid noticing his gorgeous blue skin and those forearms, too. Sem thinks Elanie is stunning, and adores her matter-of-fact truth bombs. With bionics across the Known Universe beginning to mysteriously disappear, though, he worries when he finds Elanie attempting to leave the ship in the middle of the night. He makes the split second decision to jump into the escape pod with her, and the two hurl through space, ending up on a cold, distant planet. But why are they here, and who brought them there? While exploring the planet and spending time in Only One Cave, the two get to know each other better and help each other figure out what’s going on.
These two are adorable together. It’s definitely a case of opposites attract and forced proximity in all the best ways. Sem is out of his element with Elanie, since he can’t use the empathy he relies on to read her emotions. And Elanie is absolutely lost when faced with the emotions of her hormone upgrade.
The romance is a slow burn, and things pick up as the book goes on. The last third of the book is exciting, stressful, and emotional, and I loved every second. The plot brings up interesting ideas about AI, choice, and attachment to work culture, and ended up being thought provoking while also being super hot.
Elanie and the Empath is a great follow up to Sunastara & the Venusian. It continues the fantastic sci fi world building while including more serious issues, along with a steamy romance. I recommend the entire series, and can’t wait to read what’s up next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Bionic Elanie (part AI, part organic being) recently installed her hormone upgrade, and none of the overwhelming new emotions make sense to her. So she seeks out Dr. Sem Semson, the ship’s empath doctor for help. She can’t avoid noticing his gorgeous blue skin and those forearms, too. Sem thinks Elanie is stunning, and adores her matter-of-fact truth bombs. With bionics across the Known Universe beginning to mysteriously disappear, though, he worries when he finds Elanie attempting to leave the ship in the middle of the night. He makes the split second decision to jump into the escape pod with her, and the two hurl through space, ending up on a cold, distant planet. But why are they here, and who brought them there? While exploring the planet and spending time in Only One Cave, the two get to know each other better and help each other figure out what’s going on.
These two are adorable together. It’s definitely a case of opposites attract and forced proximity in all the best ways. Sem is out of his element with Elanie, since he can’t use the empathy he relies on to read her emotions. And Elanie is absolutely lost when faced with the emotions of her hormone upgrade.
The romance is a slow burn, and things pick up as the book goes on. The last third of the book is exciting, stressful, and emotional, and I loved every second. The plot brings up interesting ideas about AI, choice, and attachment to work culture, and ended up being thought provoking while also being super hot.
Elanie and the Empath is a great follow up to Sunastara & the Venusian. It continues the fantastic sci fi world building while including more serious issues, along with a steamy romance. I recommend the entire series, and can’t wait to read what’s up next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 8, 2025
Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the ARC!
Elanie & The Empath follows Elanie, a bionic - half humanoid and half machine. After installing a puberty upgrade, she is suddenly overwhelmed with new emotions and body changes she doesn't understand and seeks the help of Dr Semson, the ship's physician. Sem is an empath, a useful trait in aiding his patients, but he can't read bionics - Elanie might be the first patient he doesn't know how to help.
I'm a sucker for a romance in space and this story achieves that brilliantly. The worldbuilding is straightforward yet vivid, I could easily picture the world around them. The story felt very unique to me with Elanie being a bionic being, yet she was so relatable. I loved how direct she was which was a great balance to Sem's initial awkwardness.
Elanie's journey is written extremely well, this is a great example of how to handle inexperienced characters. Elanie never comes across as naive or exploited, Sem shows the perfect amount of patience and understanding to help Elanie blossom into her own person and learn what pleasure means. Together they have a wonderful journey.
This story really encapsulates romantic sci-fi but it's so much more than that. There's humour, tension and at the very heart of the story, it's all about choosing to be who we are, not what we're expected to be.
Elanie & The Empath is the second book in the Space Cruise Romance series. I hadn't read the first book, Sunastara & The Venusian (and I will be immediately rectifying that!) but felt this worked great as a standalone.
Elanie & The Empath follows Elanie, a bionic - half humanoid and half machine. After installing a puberty upgrade, she is suddenly overwhelmed with new emotions and body changes she doesn't understand and seeks the help of Dr Semson, the ship's physician. Sem is an empath, a useful trait in aiding his patients, but he can't read bionics - Elanie might be the first patient he doesn't know how to help.
I'm a sucker for a romance in space and this story achieves that brilliantly. The worldbuilding is straightforward yet vivid, I could easily picture the world around them. The story felt very unique to me with Elanie being a bionic being, yet she was so relatable. I loved how direct she was which was a great balance to Sem's initial awkwardness.
"Holding Sem tightly in my lap, I realized that for the first time since I'd been commissioned, the first time in my living memory, I had absolutely no idea what would happen next."
Elanie's journey is written extremely well, this is a great example of how to handle inexperienced characters. Elanie never comes across as naive or exploited, Sem shows the perfect amount of patience and understanding to help Elanie blossom into her own person and learn what pleasure means. Together they have a wonderful journey.
"I would stay with her. We were bonded now, on this frozen tundra. We were ice melting and reforming. We were snowflakes swirling through the air, our crystalline branches reaching out for one another, spanning space and time until we finally made contact."
This story really encapsulates romantic sci-fi but it's so much more than that. There's humour, tension and at the very heart of the story, it's all about choosing to be who we are, not what we're expected to be.
Elanie & The Empath is the second book in the Space Cruise Romance series. I hadn't read the first book, Sunastara & The Venusian (and I will be immediately rectifying that!) but felt this worked great as a standalone.
September 28, 2025
One thing I can count on in every Jess K Hardy novel I’ve ever read is that I am going to be taken on the BEST sort of emotional rollercoaster. Her latest, ELANIE AND THE EMPATH, is no exception.
Elanie is a bionic, made of flesh and bone and metal and circuitry. Originally created to work long hours and endless days with emotionless intelligence, things go haywire when she gets a hormonal upgrade to her system. Like a teenager, everything becomes dramatically and uncontrollably emotional. Trying to navigate her first attempt at a sexual relationship—to a useless dumbass of a bionic boyfriend named Blake—Elanie decides to seek help from Dr. Semson (Sem), the ship's doctor, a handsome empath from a blue-skinned species known as the Portisans.
Unable to read emotions from bionics, Sem is initially unsure he can effectively help Elanie with her, ahem… issues. Her blunt questions about sex and his overwhelming attraction to her test the limits of their doctor patient encounters but he manages to keep it professional. It takes a late-night encounter with an out-of-control Elanie and an unplanned ride in an escape pod to a faraway planet for Sem’s resolve to cave. In an actual cave, it just so happens. Have these two found a paradise where a bionic and an empath can live in peace, or will they find there is more going on than they first realize?
On finishing Elanie and Sem’s story (which had me choked up at the end—boy can Jess K Hardy write a tearjerker of an HEA), I’m left wondering why there aren’t more sci-fi romances out right now. With topical themes such as capitalism, dehumanization, worker’s rights, and AI running throughout, it seems like the perfect time for this story and others like it. It had me hooked from the start and I can't wait for the next book in the Space Cruise Romance series.
Thank you to Netgalley for the digital ARC
Elanie is a bionic, made of flesh and bone and metal and circuitry. Originally created to work long hours and endless days with emotionless intelligence, things go haywire when she gets a hormonal upgrade to her system. Like a teenager, everything becomes dramatically and uncontrollably emotional. Trying to navigate her first attempt at a sexual relationship—to a useless dumbass of a bionic boyfriend named Blake—Elanie decides to seek help from Dr. Semson (Sem), the ship's doctor, a handsome empath from a blue-skinned species known as the Portisans.
Unable to read emotions from bionics, Sem is initially unsure he can effectively help Elanie with her, ahem… issues. Her blunt questions about sex and his overwhelming attraction to her test the limits of their doctor patient encounters but he manages to keep it professional. It takes a late-night encounter with an out-of-control Elanie and an unplanned ride in an escape pod to a faraway planet for Sem’s resolve to cave. In an actual cave, it just so happens. Have these two found a paradise where a bionic and an empath can live in peace, or will they find there is more going on than they first realize?
On finishing Elanie and Sem’s story (which had me choked up at the end—boy can Jess K Hardy write a tearjerker of an HEA), I’m left wondering why there aren’t more sci-fi romances out right now. With topical themes such as capitalism, dehumanization, worker’s rights, and AI running throughout, it seems like the perfect time for this story and others like it. It had me hooked from the start and I can't wait for the next book in the Space Cruise Romance series.
Thank you to Netgalley for the digital ARC
September 30, 2025
Hurtle through galaxies, cults, and feelings in this amazing romance, the second in Jess K. Hardy’s space cruiser series.
Elanie is a bionic—part natural/organic, part programmed—built to work 24/7 and serve her masters, in this case, Luna Corp.’s pleasure cruise ship. But after her most recent update, which basically involved putting her through puberty, things feel off. So much so that she lets her BFF Sunny talk her into seeing the ship doctor, Sem.
Sem is an empath, which is what it sounds like: he can read emotions and feelings in others, which helps him treat them and understand them. But, naturally, he can’t do that with a bionic, so he’s a bit at a loss with Elanie. One thing he can easily see is that they’re attracted to each other, but how would that ever work? Plus, he’s her doctor and would never take advantage of her.
When strange forces in the universe send them careening off the ship and through space, all bets are off. Especially when they land in a very strange place with Utopian/cultish vibes…
I LOVED this book! I’m not usually a sci-fi reader, but Jess K. Hardy can write anything well, and I’ve enjoyed every single one of her books. So gimme more sci-fi romance, please! Sem was the best guy—thoughtful, smart, brave, and would do anything for Elanie. Elanie too—a caring and courageous soul who also must balance her taste of freedom with where she and Sem belong in the world. Their love was innocent and pure at times, and anything but at other times! Talk about hot. And a fantastic bonus was getting some glimpses of Sunny and Freddie.
Overall, such a fun read and I can’t wait for the next one in the series!
Thank you to Jess K. Hardy for my advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
Elanie is a bionic—part natural/organic, part programmed—built to work 24/7 and serve her masters, in this case, Luna Corp.’s pleasure cruise ship. But after her most recent update, which basically involved putting her through puberty, things feel off. So much so that she lets her BFF Sunny talk her into seeing the ship doctor, Sem.
Sem is an empath, which is what it sounds like: he can read emotions and feelings in others, which helps him treat them and understand them. But, naturally, he can’t do that with a bionic, so he’s a bit at a loss with Elanie. One thing he can easily see is that they’re attracted to each other, but how would that ever work? Plus, he’s her doctor and would never take advantage of her.
When strange forces in the universe send them careening off the ship and through space, all bets are off. Especially when they land in a very strange place with Utopian/cultish vibes…
I LOVED this book! I’m not usually a sci-fi reader, but Jess K. Hardy can write anything well, and I’ve enjoyed every single one of her books. So gimme more sci-fi romance, please! Sem was the best guy—thoughtful, smart, brave, and would do anything for Elanie. Elanie too—a caring and courageous soul who also must balance her taste of freedom with where she and Sem belong in the world. Their love was innocent and pure at times, and anything but at other times! Talk about hot. And a fantastic bonus was getting some glimpses of Sunny and Freddie.
Overall, such a fun read and I can’t wait for the next one in the series!
Thank you to Jess K. Hardy for my advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
October 23, 2025
God I will read anything Jess K. Hardy writes. Just inject it into my veins, because she gets to the heart and soul of humanity with her storytelling and I loved everything about Sem, our resident blue skinned, web-fingered Portisan doctor, and Elanie, the most beautiful bionic that tells it like it is especially since being crippled by teenage hormones.
This book was so funny. Only in a sci-fi, could you have a grown woman experience the chaos of puberty in all its fearsome glory. As a bionic electing to have a hormone upgrade, Elanie can’t process the insecurity, the unusual feelings, the body changes that are happening to her. Poor Dr. Semson doesn’t know what hits him when Elanie walks into his office asking for a breast exam. I’m not sure there could be a better meet cute. And the cuteness does not let up. Elaine’s frankness with understanding the world in black and white truths countered with Sem’s brightly colored gift of literally feeling what his patients are experiencing (except, unfortunately bionics), puts opposites attract to the test.
When bionics start disappearing and then Elanie hears a voice calling to her, is it the hormone upgrade or something more? For a book that takes place in outer space, and then even further outer space limits, I had a very specific visual in my head. Responding unwillingly and unknowingly to this voice, Elanie and Sem are shuttled to a frozen planet on the outskirts of the known universe. The way they experience their new surroundings and have to rely on each other for basic needs feels a like a creation story in the way they are each other’s salvation and comfort. It’s the most inhospitable place and yet the perfect setting for brewing a love story.
This book is so smartly written and beautifully crafted. It was yet another page turner from Hardy full of deep feelings, self-discovery, and lots and lots of love. Please do yourself a favor and pick up this book, or any one of Jess’s novels for an early it of this world experience. I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
This book was so funny. Only in a sci-fi, could you have a grown woman experience the chaos of puberty in all its fearsome glory. As a bionic electing to have a hormone upgrade, Elanie can’t process the insecurity, the unusual feelings, the body changes that are happening to her. Poor Dr. Semson doesn’t know what hits him when Elanie walks into his office asking for a breast exam. I’m not sure there could be a better meet cute. And the cuteness does not let up. Elaine’s frankness with understanding the world in black and white truths countered with Sem’s brightly colored gift of literally feeling what his patients are experiencing (except, unfortunately bionics), puts opposites attract to the test.
When bionics start disappearing and then Elanie hears a voice calling to her, is it the hormone upgrade or something more? For a book that takes place in outer space, and then even further outer space limits, I had a very specific visual in my head. Responding unwillingly and unknowingly to this voice, Elanie and Sem are shuttled to a frozen planet on the outskirts of the known universe. The way they experience their new surroundings and have to rely on each other for basic needs feels a like a creation story in the way they are each other’s salvation and comfort. It’s the most inhospitable place and yet the perfect setting for brewing a love story.
This book is so smartly written and beautifully crafted. It was yet another page turner from Hardy full of deep feelings, self-discovery, and lots and lots of love. Please do yourself a favor and pick up this book, or any one of Jess’s novels for an early it of this world experience. I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
October 6, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ What a great book! We meet Elanie, a bionic, working on a pleasure cruise ship in space. Bionic’s are made up of organic and inorganic material it would seen. She’s recently added a hormone upgrade to her programing and is going through puberty essentially. There wasn’t a lot of background given on bionics at first or much about the universe these characters inhabit, and it pretty much jumps right in. We do get some background info later though so that was good.
In order to understand what is happening with her body Elanie meets up with the ships doctor Dr. Semsen, or Sem. He is immediately attracted to her, but fights it since she is his patient. The inner monologue parts from Sem were too funny. He was trying so hard to be professional. I appreciated that nothing happened between them until their doctor/patient relationship was over.
There is trouble brewing in the universe though and Elanie is forced off the ship by a program overriding her controls. Sem, in an effort to stop her, joins her and they are both taken to a distant world. I don’t want to give too much away about that part of the plot though.
The intimate scenes between Sem and Elanie were so sweet, he was so patient with her and didn’t overwhelm her when it came to sex. It was actually pretty hot reading about the slow build up to them going all the way. The third act conflict is a big one, and I actually teared up at times! That is a rarity for me with books. I really loved this book and would recommend it.
I want to thank the Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
4/5 on the Spicy Scale
M/F
Sci-Fi Romance
In order to understand what is happening with her body Elanie meets up with the ships doctor Dr. Semsen, or Sem. He is immediately attracted to her, but fights it since she is his patient. The inner monologue parts from Sem were too funny. He was trying so hard to be professional. I appreciated that nothing happened between them until their doctor/patient relationship was over.
There is trouble brewing in the universe though and Elanie is forced off the ship by a program overriding her controls. Sem, in an effort to stop her, joins her and they are both taken to a distant world. I don’t want to give too much away about that part of the plot though.
The intimate scenes between Sem and Elanie were so sweet, he was so patient with her and didn’t overwhelm her when it came to sex. It was actually pretty hot reading about the slow build up to them going all the way. The third act conflict is a big one, and I actually teared up at times! That is a rarity for me with books. I really loved this book and would recommend it.
I want to thank the Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
4/5 on the Spicy Scale
M/F
Sci-Fi Romance
November 5, 2025
*Review includes content guidance*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What happens when you finally allow yourself to want more - and the universe (or a spaceship) gives you the chance to claim it?
Elanie and the Empath by Jess K. Hardy is an absolutely captivating sci-fi romance that hit me right in the heart. As someone passionate about helping others go for more - whatever “more” means to them - I connected deeply with Elanie’s journey of freeing herself from society’s expectations and her own limiting beliefs. Reading Elanie's journey was both powerful and emotional for me.
This story has everything you'll love:
🚀 A high-stakes sci-fi road trip
🏕️ Only one cave (yes, forced proximity at its best)
🔥 A sensual, tender sexual awakening with major “teach me” action
💘 A hero who falls first and hardest
🌌 And worldbuilding that’s rich without ever overshadowing the romance
Jess K. Hardy masterfully balances spice, humor, and depth. There are several deliciously teasing mentions of what happens on a certain deck of the pleasure ship - and while she keeps things just at the edge of tantalizing, I couldn’t help but hope for a follow-up bonus scene (please?).
This book is adventurous, emotionally intelligent, and beautifully written. It’s a reminder that love is as much about liberation as it is about connection.
If you enjoy romantic sci-fi with heart, heat, and healing — Elanie and the Empath deserves a spot at the very top of your TBR.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and author for providing me with a copy of this story ahead of publication date.
Content guidance: forced labor, manipulation, near-death experiences, murder, classism, racism, torture.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What happens when you finally allow yourself to want more - and the universe (or a spaceship) gives you the chance to claim it?
Elanie and the Empath by Jess K. Hardy is an absolutely captivating sci-fi romance that hit me right in the heart. As someone passionate about helping others go for more - whatever “more” means to them - I connected deeply with Elanie’s journey of freeing herself from society’s expectations and her own limiting beliefs. Reading Elanie's journey was both powerful and emotional for me.
This story has everything you'll love:
🚀 A high-stakes sci-fi road trip
🏕️ Only one cave (yes, forced proximity at its best)
🔥 A sensual, tender sexual awakening with major “teach me” action
💘 A hero who falls first and hardest
🌌 And worldbuilding that’s rich without ever overshadowing the romance
Jess K. Hardy masterfully balances spice, humor, and depth. There are several deliciously teasing mentions of what happens on a certain deck of the pleasure ship - and while she keeps things just at the edge of tantalizing, I couldn’t help but hope for a follow-up bonus scene (please?).
This book is adventurous, emotionally intelligent, and beautifully written. It’s a reminder that love is as much about liberation as it is about connection.
If you enjoy romantic sci-fi with heart, heat, and healing — Elanie and the Empath deserves a spot at the very top of your TBR.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and author for providing me with a copy of this story ahead of publication date.
Content guidance: forced labor, manipulation, near-death experiences, murder, classism, racism, torture.
October 17, 2025
Elanie & the Empath is utterly charming! A perfect sci-fi romance.
I absolutely adored how both Elanie and Sem were, in a sense, operating blind. Elanie is a bionic (half human, half machine) and only recently got an upgrade that gave her hormonal/emotional reactions, and Sem's powers as an empath don't work on bionics, so he was unable to read Elanie's feelings the way he can any other being. The ways that each of them compensate for this form the real foundation of their romance.
I did read the first book in the series, Sunastara & the Venusian, before I started this book, and I felt like it added to the experience but wasn't totally necessary. Elanie & the Empath can definitely stand alone, especially since a great bulk of the action takes place away from the ship.
Without giving away any of the delightful details, I'll say that this book is for anyone who has ever felt out of place, whether in their family, their community, or their own skin, and just wanted to find a place to belong. For anyone who has ever been tempted to solve that problem in an unhealthy way, this book could be healing, and for anyone who solves it in a healthy way, it's definitely validating. And if the sci-fi aspect makes you hesitate, don't let it -- this book is well worth stepping out of your usual reading zone!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
I absolutely adored how both Elanie and Sem were, in a sense, operating blind. Elanie is a bionic (half human, half machine) and only recently got an upgrade that gave her hormonal/emotional reactions, and Sem's powers as an empath don't work on bionics, so he was unable to read Elanie's feelings the way he can any other being. The ways that each of them compensate for this form the real foundation of their romance.
I did read the first book in the series, Sunastara & the Venusian, before I started this book, and I felt like it added to the experience but wasn't totally necessary. Elanie & the Empath can definitely stand alone, especially since a great bulk of the action takes place away from the ship.
Without giving away any of the delightful details, I'll say that this book is for anyone who has ever felt out of place, whether in their family, their community, or their own skin, and just wanted to find a place to belong. For anyone who has ever been tempted to solve that problem in an unhealthy way, this book could be healing, and for anyone who solves it in a healthy way, it's definitely validating. And if the sci-fi aspect makes you hesitate, don't let it -- this book is well worth stepping out of your usual reading zone!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
October 27, 2025
STEM MMC: medical doctor
I don’t like to read sci-fi because it’s too far from reality for my brain to accept it, so I probably shouldn’t have picked this one up. It’s an alien and a bionic together. The alien is actually less an issue for me than the bionic. A bionic never ages, so how’s that going to work? He’s just going to age and die while she stays young and beautiful forever? Also, she can’t have children because she’s bionic, so it’s less childfree and more childless. I kind of hate that there was only like one sentence at the end that even remotely addressed that with him, and I don’t feel like it was given the proper gravitas or space to allow that conversation to unfold fully. That dropped a star for me as a childfree person.
Big spoiler ahead. The other star drop was because of one of my most dreaded tropes: amnesia (or in this case, she got her memory swiped). I sobbed for them, and I really hate being that upset when I’m reading a romance. It’s supposed to be fluffy and happy (or at least that’s how I like my romances).
Anyway, overall it was well written, and it had a well thought out plot, and the spice was good. This is the second book in a series, but it can definitely be read as a stand alone since that’s how I read it. I didn’t feel like I was lost or needed to read the first book to get into this story.
I don’t like to read sci-fi because it’s too far from reality for my brain to accept it, so I probably shouldn’t have picked this one up. It’s an alien and a bionic together. The alien is actually less an issue for me than the bionic. A bionic never ages, so how’s that going to work? He’s just going to age and die while she stays young and beautiful forever? Also, she can’t have children because she’s bionic, so it’s less childfree and more childless. I kind of hate that there was only like one sentence at the end that even remotely addressed that with him, and I don’t feel like it was given the proper gravitas or space to allow that conversation to unfold fully. That dropped a star for me as a childfree person.
Big spoiler ahead. The other star drop was because of one of my most dreaded tropes: amnesia (or in this case, she got her memory swiped). I sobbed for them, and I really hate being that upset when I’m reading a romance. It’s supposed to be fluffy and happy (or at least that’s how I like my romances).
Anyway, overall it was well written, and it had a well thought out plot, and the spice was good. This is the second book in a series, but it can definitely be read as a stand alone since that’s how I read it. I didn’t feel like I was lost or needed to read the first book to get into this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2025
Elanie is a bionic whose straightforward, structured existence has been completely thrown for a loop by an upgrade which puts her into puberty. When she seeks help from ship's doctor Sem, it kick-starts all sorts of unexpected emotions on both sides, and leads to a perilous off-ship adventure that teaches them more about their feelings and needs than they ever bargained for.
This is a great follow-up to Sunastara and the Venetian, taking us back to the Ignisar and also expanding the detail of the universe it inhabits. I loved the interactions between Elanie and Sem, her extremely direct questions about her body causing him great discomfort because not only is he developing a crush on her, but his empath skills are of no use with a bionic, leading to a very interesting and amusing dynamic which develops beautifully. But this isn't just a romantic sci-fi romp; alongside the humour and dangerous situations and spice, there are a lot of pointed questions raised around AI, workers' rights, power balance, the notion of family, and the freedom to follow the path you want versus what is expected of you by others. It all makes for a well-rounded and thought-provoking addition to an excellent series.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
This is a great follow-up to Sunastara and the Venetian, taking us back to the Ignisar and also expanding the detail of the universe it inhabits. I loved the interactions between Elanie and Sem, her extremely direct questions about her body causing him great discomfort because not only is he developing a crush on her, but his empath skills are of no use with a bionic, leading to a very interesting and amusing dynamic which develops beautifully. But this isn't just a romantic sci-fi romp; alongside the humour and dangerous situations and spice, there are a lot of pointed questions raised around AI, workers' rights, power balance, the notion of family, and the freedom to follow the path you want versus what is expected of you by others. It all makes for a well-rounded and thought-provoking addition to an excellent series.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
October 3, 2025
What an awesome follow up to "Sunastara & the Venusian"! Elanie & Sem are such an amazing couple to get to know. While they are fundamentally different and “shouldn’t” make sense together, they are similar in the ways that count. This story is a beautiful exploration into how far you’ll go for the one you love and how a person grows individually and as a part of a couple as they learn more about themselves, love and the world around them.
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Elanie is an incredible FMC. Watching her explore sexuality and learn about love was so moving. It makes you think back to that same time in your life and re-feel the emotions of the time. It was an emotional ride seeing her find her motivation, her reason.
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Sem is such a wonderful, noble MMC. His reaction to Elanie, his desire to cherish and protect her and the ways he shows his love for her is something all hero’s should aspire to.
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Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC Jess K. Hardy! Huge fan!
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Elanie & the Empath
by @jesskhardy_author
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2025 ~ Book 42
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#ElanieAndTheEmpath #JessKHenry
#romancebooks #romancereader #melreadsromance
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Elanie is an incredible FMC. Watching her explore sexuality and learn about love was so moving. It makes you think back to that same time in your life and re-feel the emotions of the time. It was an emotional ride seeing her find her motivation, her reason.
.
Sem is such a wonderful, noble MMC. His reaction to Elanie, his desire to cherish and protect her and the ways he shows his love for her is something all hero’s should aspire to.
.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC Jess K. Hardy! Huge fan!
.
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Elanie & the Empath
by @jesskhardy_author
.
2025 ~ Book 42
.
#ElanieAndTheEmpath #JessKHenry
#romancebooks #romancereader #melreadsromance
October 24, 2025
5 ⭐ 3 🌶️
I'm not normally a sci-fi reader, but if Jess writes it, I'm reading it, and becoming obsessed with it too. This Space Cruise series is freaking phenomenal and insanely perfect. There was so much heart and soul in this story; just a complete gambit of emotions as I was laughing my butt off one minute and close to tears the next. Sem and Elanie were everything I was hoping for and more.
Sem just about ripped my heart out at the end. Then Elanie comes barging in and puts it back together, but so beautifully I almost start crying. And then of course I'm laughing all over again with Grover and the spice and Freddie and Sunny and gahhhh I'm rambling but I seriously just adore this world.
The acknowledgements hit me hard too, with Jess building Elanie on a version of herself during covid... It's been 5 years and I'm not sure if that's a lifetime ago or a few seconds, it honestly feels like both. But I'm so happy The Known Universe has made its way into our universe because I wouldn't be the same without it. And SO FREAKING HAPPY IT'S NOT OVER!! GIMME A TWIN JESS! PLEASEEEEE!!
I'm not normally a sci-fi reader, but if Jess writes it, I'm reading it, and becoming obsessed with it too. This Space Cruise series is freaking phenomenal and insanely perfect. There was so much heart and soul in this story; just a complete gambit of emotions as I was laughing my butt off one minute and close to tears the next. Sem and Elanie were everything I was hoping for and more.
Sem just about ripped my heart out at the end. Then Elanie comes barging in and puts it back together, but so beautifully I almost start crying. And then of course I'm laughing all over again with Grover and the spice and Freddie and Sunny and gahhhh I'm rambling but I seriously just adore this world.
The acknowledgements hit me hard too, with Jess building Elanie on a version of herself during covid... It's been 5 years and I'm not sure if that's a lifetime ago or a few seconds, it honestly feels like both. But I'm so happy The Known Universe has made its way into our universe because I wouldn't be the same without it. And SO FREAKING HAPPY IT'S NOT OVER!! GIMME A TWIN JESS! PLEASEEEEE!!
October 18, 2025
Elainie is a bionic—part AI, part organic, and now newly hormonally upgraded. When that upgrade awakens feelings she’s never experienced before, she turns to Dr. Semson, the ship’s doctor aboard a delightfully chaotic interstellar cruise where she’s bound by indentured servitude. What follows is part forbidden romance, part sci-fi romp, and part revolution—complete with planetary escapades, survival thrills, and the toppling of a dystopian regime.
That summary might sound deadly serious, but rest assured—this story sparkles with humor and heart. Imagine Star Trek with a dash of rom-com chaos: eccentric side characters, offbeat adventures, and a romance that grows from curiosity into genuine connection. The chemistry between Elainie and Sem crackles, and watching two beings—so different in nature—navigate desire and duty is surprisingly tender.
Beneath the laughter and lasers, Hardy slips in some sharp, timely observations about labor, exploitation, and the uneasy dance between humanity and AI. It’s rare to find a book that makes you giggle and think about the ethics of sentience, but Hardy pulls it off with style.
Hardy continues to prove she can write anything and still deliver a captivating love story. Sci-fi romance fans, don’t miss this one.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
That summary might sound deadly serious, but rest assured—this story sparkles with humor and heart. Imagine Star Trek with a dash of rom-com chaos: eccentric side characters, offbeat adventures, and a romance that grows from curiosity into genuine connection. The chemistry between Elainie and Sem crackles, and watching two beings—so different in nature—navigate desire and duty is surprisingly tender.
Beneath the laughter and lasers, Hardy slips in some sharp, timely observations about labor, exploitation, and the uneasy dance between humanity and AI. It’s rare to find a book that makes you giggle and think about the ethics of sentience, but Hardy pulls it off with style.
Hardy continues to prove she can write anything and still deliver a captivating love story. Sci-fi romance fans, don’t miss this one.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
October 19, 2025
Thanks to Jess K. Hardy for an ARC of Elanie & the Empath! All opinions are my own.
Jess K. Hardy just absolutely refuses to miss!! I loved Sunastara & the Venusian and was so excited to get back into the world of the Ignisar and its crew. Elanie and Sem were so sweet, and I loved how much Elanie grew and understood about her wants and herself over the course of the book. We also got space bionic labor law politics going on which was WAY better done that you can imagine.
JKH stays on the auto buy list, and I’m excited for everyone to get a hold of their favorite bionic and blue ship doctor on 10/23!
POV: dual first person
You can expect: sex ed, forced proximity, cuddling for warmth, stranded, labor politics, “teach me”, he falls first, opposites attract, empath MMC, doctor mmc, bionic FMC, space adventures: yearning edition
Spice: 3
CW: enslavement, violence
Jess K. Hardy just absolutely refuses to miss!! I loved Sunastara & the Venusian and was so excited to get back into the world of the Ignisar and its crew. Elanie and Sem were so sweet, and I loved how much Elanie grew and understood about her wants and herself over the course of the book. We also got space bionic labor law politics going on which was WAY better done that you can imagine.
JKH stays on the auto buy list, and I’m excited for everyone to get a hold of their favorite bionic and blue ship doctor on 10/23!
POV: dual first person
You can expect: sex ed, forced proximity, cuddling for warmth, stranded, labor politics, “teach me”, he falls first, opposites attract, empath MMC, doctor mmc, bionic FMC, space adventures: yearning edition
Spice: 3
CW: enslavement, violence
October 24, 2025
My first ever alien romance! I loved Elanie and Sem. Sem was so gone, I loved his little freak outs over her. And Elanie was so refreshingly honest and straightforward. I’m trying not to think too hard about how she needed to be bionic in order to be that way as a commentary on how women are programmed to be accommodating. She was naive, but didn’t even know it was something to be embarrassed about.
And I enjoyed the spin on road trip and only one bed tropes to become space pod landing on inhospitable planet and only one cave.
I think I may need to circle back to the first book in this series too - just to see if I missed any world building.
And I enjoyed the spin on road trip and only one bed tropes to become space pod landing on inhospitable planet and only one cave.
I think I may need to circle back to the first book in this series too - just to see if I missed any world building.
October 30, 2025
Great second instalment in the series
The characters are completely different to the first in this series, but the vibe is consistent - which is great! I loved revisiting the crew, and I loved that Sem and Elanie got to explore their dynamic in a different setting. There were definite emotional ups and downs, and throughout it all, you just have to keep turning the pages. Some parts were a little predictable, however there were other sections where the most predictable path was not the one we were led down. This was very refreshing and welcome. I hope to see more in this series.
Full disclosure: I was given an ARC of the book, however this review is my own honest opinion.
The characters are completely different to the first in this series, but the vibe is consistent - which is great! I loved revisiting the crew, and I loved that Sem and Elanie got to explore their dynamic in a different setting. There were definite emotional ups and downs, and throughout it all, you just have to keep turning the pages. Some parts were a little predictable, however there were other sections where the most predictable path was not the one we were led down. This was very refreshing and welcome. I hope to see more in this series.
Full disclosure: I was given an ARC of the book, however this review is my own honest opinion.
October 16, 2025
I am a "Hardy Completionist" and that means I clearly love everything she writes. 💖 This was no different. I also happen to adore scifi/alien romance in all its forms, so this was a double hit for me. Elanie and Sem were so precious, and I am such a sucker for a "he falls first and HARD" scenario.😍 The world that Jess has created with the Space Cruise series, has so much possibility, and based on the first 2 books, she will be exploring many more fascinating places and introducing us to amazing new characters! 🚀
4.5🌟
4.5🌟
November 10, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh Elanie 😂! Loved her Bionic personality and Sem was so sweet, blue and almost normal.
I was a bit sad that this book would mostly be off the Ignisar, the pleasure cruise ship and spent mostly in an terraformed ice planet.
The last few chapters moved very quickly and I felt a bit lost as to who was where and what the heck was actually happening. But Sem broke my heart in his last chapter.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this advanced e-arc and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh Elanie 😂! Loved her Bionic personality and Sem was so sweet, blue and almost normal.
I was a bit sad that this book would mostly be off the Ignisar, the pleasure cruise ship and spent mostly in an terraformed ice planet.
The last few chapters moved very quickly and I felt a bit lost as to who was where and what the heck was actually happening. But Sem broke my heart in his last chapter.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this advanced e-arc and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 10, 2025
Jess Hardy is such a fun read and while her contemporary romances are fabulous, it's best not to sleep on this space Romance series. Elanie and Sem are adorable and I love a good "he falls first" romance. This one has a lot going on and I loved how Sem and Elanie finally came together. I also really appreciate how Hardy kept this plot going because I thought we were close to done about a third of the way through, but nope nope, she has more up her sleeve and I'm glad 8 stuck around for the HEA. and there's a third boo, coming? Yes please.
Thanks to the author for the advance copy!
Thanks to the author for the advance copy!
October 9, 2025
This. Book. I wasn't entirely sure what to expect since my experience with Elanie from the first book in the series was a bit off-putting. However, I loved getting to know her while she was getting to know herself and what she wanted. I also loved how Sem was excited to learn about Elanie without being able to rely on reading her emotions. I was truly sad when the book ended - I could have had so much more Elanie and Sem.
I read this as an ARC and would happily pay for it. I have to say, Jess K. Hardy know how to write a captivating story.
I read this as an ARC and would happily pay for it. I have to say, Jess K. Hardy know how to write a captivating story.
October 13, 2025
This might be the most perfect sci-fi book I’ve read in a very long time. Swoony, funny, wacky, tense, sexy, romantic. It was such a well-plotted book, I was so intrigued to see where the story was going. It seems like it will follow a familiar path, but the places it goes are quite surprising. The last half of the book really ratcheted up the suspense, and I finished it in one day. The ending made me squee with joy. Highly recommend this fantastic ride, wish I could give it 6 stars.
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