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Eden #1

Unexpected Eden

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Eden, #1

Paradise, love and power. . .and a prophecy with a price.

Most people believe Eden no longer exists. Lexi Merrill's about to learn they're wrong. A hard-working bartender with a self-sufficient backbone and a wary nature, she knows pickup lines like a second language. So, when Eryx Shantos barges into her world with too-smooth words and a body to back it up, she locks up her libido and vows to keep her distance.

Eryx has other ideas. As king of the Myren race, Eryx is duty-bound to enforce the laws preventing exposure of their existence to humans. Yet The Fates have led him through his dreams to Lexi, a temptation he doesn't want to resist. The question is, is she Myren, or human - which makes her forbidden fruit?

When Eryx's nemesis tags Lexi as his next target, Eryx insists on taking her home where he can keep her safe. Lexi had no idea "home" would mean the one-and-only land of creation. . .or that she'd trigger a prophecy that could doom her newfound race.

81,411 Words

230 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 29, 2014

302 people are currently reading
2091 people want to read

About the author

Rhenna Morgan

29 books1,067 followers
A native Oklahoman with two beautiful girls, Rhenna Morgan is a certified romance junkie and has a resume that reflects her passion for new experiences. Since graduating with a Bachelors in Radio, Television, and Film at Oklahoma State, she’s racked up positions ranging from on-air radio talent, skip tracer, and promotions director, to real estate agent, project manager, and business analyst.

Like most women, she’s got obligations stacked tight from dawn to dusk. To combat the crush of reality, she’s turned to romance as her primary source of escape ever since she cracked the spine on her first Christine Feehan book years ago. Whether it’s contemporary, paranormal, or fantasy you’re after, Rhenna’s stories pack new, exciting worlds, and strong, intuitive men who fight to keep the women they want.

For advance release news and exclusive content, sign up for her newsletter at http://RhennaMorgan.com. You can also find her social media links there, along with her smoking hot inspiration boards.

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Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].
3,030 reviews25.3k followers
October 12, 2016
RATING 4.5 STARS

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Unexpected Eden is book one in the Eden series by Rhenna Morgan.

Alexis (Lexi) Merrill has never felt like she fit in, always felt off in some way. She grew up in foster homes. She’s twenty five years old now, working two jobs, one being a bartender nights in a busy bar, and going to school during the day. She is used to men coming in to the bar and making passes at her. She’s heard about every line there is. But she was not prepared for the drop dead gorgeous, persistent man that showed up that night. Just looking at him woke up all her girly parts that had been asleep far too long.

“Guys like Eryx were landmines waiting for a trigger.”

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Eryx Shantos has been plagued with dreams of a mystery woman and he and his protector have been searching for her for ten long years. Finally he has found her. Eryx is the leader or King of the Myren race in the land of Eden in an alternate dimension. Myrens have powers or abilities that set them apart from humans and live much longer life spans but otherwise are fairly similar to us. But they are forbidden to reveal their race to humans or to ever bring a human to Eden. Eryx knows, though, that Lexi is the woman of his dreams. And he feels an energy when he is near her. Could she be a Myren, one of the lost since her infancy? Before he can make the decision as to what to do, the arch enemy of their race, Maxis, shows himself. Now that he knows Lexi is important to him, she will never be safe, so he is forced to take her back to Eden.

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Lexi is soon to discover a place where she finally feels she belongs, and people that finally feel like family. She finds beauty beyond her wildest imagination. But above all she finds love.

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Eryx is truly a warrior, proud and strong. But from the lips of this man the most beautiful words come. He knows Lexi is his intended mate, fated to rule by his side. But can he convince her that her life is here, with him?

“Ten years he’d searched, dreamed and waited. And here he was, his soul perched on the edge of an emotional cliff.”

But what would a story be without an evil, power hungry enemy, bent on overthrowing Eryx and ruling in his place? Or an ex-lover determined to eliminate Lexi from the picture and getting Eryx back for herself?

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The sexual chemistry between Eryx and Lexi sizzled right off the pages. Eryx went into this determined to win Lexi over with his heart on his sleeve but I loved how he had to break down Lexi’s protective walls and earn her trust. At the same time, introducing her to a new way of life and a new role.

“It’s not too late to run.” His voice caught and his emotions crackled against her newfound senses.
“I’m done running.”
“I’d have chased you anyway.”


This book has it all, swoony Myren men, some great steamy scenes, some sweet melting into a puddle moments. But Maxis is determined to overthrow the royal family in his quest for power with his band of rebels and will stop at nothing to get it. And what better way to weaken Eryx than to separate him from his love. There is evil at work in Eden. Can Eryx stop the rebellion and keep Lexi safe?

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This was a great first book and introduction to this beautiful new world. I love the Myren people and am excited to see what their future brings with the leadership of Eryx and his new Queen. There is so much more to discover about these characters and can’t wait to continue.

“The fates led me to you, Alexis. You’re the destiny I dreamed of and searched for.”
Profile Image for Christina.
632 reviews26 followers
February 15, 2015
I WANT ONE!!! I want a Malran, I want a Fireann, I want to live in Eden, I want, I want, I want!!!! But NOOOOOO, I’m stuck on Evad, ARGH!!!!

(Taking deep breathe)…Have you figured it out yet? Yep, LOVED this!!! Man oh man, this Author had me sucked in from the very beginning. Eryx and Ludan are hot and sexy Myren from Eden (yep, THAT Eden) who are searching for Eryx’ mate in Evad (Earth). Lexi thinks she’s just a bartender who’s stuck going to school and working for the rest of her life until she’s approached by these two. Her world is literally turned on its axis the very night they meet.

As you read the story, you start thinking, “ok, so that’s gonna happen, then this will happen…” and you’re right. But what you won’t be prepared for is a book filled with non-stop, on the edge of your seat, reading THROUGHOUT the entire book. Just when you think something is done, something else arises and has you hooked all over again. I couldn’t put this down even when I tried.

One piece of advice…don’t be afraid to use the Glossary. Once you enter the realm that is Eden, getting acclimated with their choice of word can be a little tricky at first. But with the Glossary, it makes sense quicker than just trying to barrel through it.

Could this really be the first book from this Author? WHAT? No way! Regardless if she’s a new Author or not, she has a fan….and potential stalker…lol

If you’re a Paranormal Romance lover, I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend this book. Be warned, you’ll be hooked too.

*I was given a copy of this book as a gift from The JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review.

Profile Image for Mei.
1,897 reviews471 followers
November 5, 2014
I received this book from the Netgalley for my honest review.

I was more than pleasantly suprised! This book is great!

As I said before, it reminds me of Robin D. Owens Summoning series but with a more modern situations, hotness and overall writing.

But the basic elements are all here too: an alternate Earth, where extraordinary powers belong to its inhabitants, a girl brought there revealed to be the bringer of a prophecy, a hot guy revealed to be the king, forver (hot) mating, a power-hungry villain... you say it and it's there!

I had a great time reading it! Really! It was such a smooth read that I was sad when it ended! I wanted the next book as soon as i read the last page!

A truly refreshing book!!! Very recommended to those who have loved the Summoning series!
Profile Image for Kate.
2,277 reviews356 followers
March 31, 2016
I don't really want to write a review for this but as this was given to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I kind of have to. DNF @ 47 %

What I liked:

- the characters
- the premise of the story
- the book is original and different in a positive way.


What was okay:

- the writing style
- the pace of the book
- the world building was aa tad rushed.

What I didn't like:

- Jumping between characters and different views from the good and baddies. It was confusing.
- The previous history
- The chemistry between the H/h was forced and the lack of communication.

Please be aware that this cannot and should not be based on my opinion if you want to read this book. It is always a personal preference.
Profile Image for Beth.
3,102 reviews301 followers
November 22, 2025
Opening the pages of Unexpected Eden, I immediately discovered that this is a new series I’m going to love to jump into.

Lexi Merrill is a bartender, who seems somewhat set apart from her fellow employees and patrons. She just doesn’t quite fit in. Her only real friend is an older cop that is struggling with the disappearance of his wife and child.

Eryx is the king of the Myren race. A supernatural people that were left in Eden after the creator sent humans out. Their abilities have put them in a superior position of power with full knowledge of the human world.

Eryx is draws to Lexi, but humans and Myrens can’t mix so why is she the woman of his dreams? Lexi keeps dreaming of a mysterious paradise and presence but has never discovered its origins. That all changes, the day she meets Eryx. But Eryx isn’t the only one that discovers Lexi, his rival and a traitor to his people, has also seen Lexi and she becomes a target in his plans for taking over Eden.

This was a marvelous story with fun but very sexy characters. I loved the unique world of Morgan’s imagination and can’t wait to discover more.

This was a 5 star read for me right up till the last chapter and then it dropped to 4.5 Stars. I still really enjoyed this story but found the ending extremely anticlimactic and unbefitting the rest of this story.

I received this ARC copy of Unexpected Eden from Kensington Books in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication December 29, 2014.
Profile Image for Alexa.
640 reviews23 followers
January 29, 2015
I am not a reader that hates insta-love in my books. Some stories it fits and I love it, some stories it doesn’t. My favorite insta-love books are the forever mate/soul-mate type of thing. So when I read the synopsis I knew that I had to pick this one up. I was definitely pleasantly surprised when I read this book. It had so much more than I was expected and I was hooked right from the beginning.

Lexi Merrill is a bartender just trying to make it through two jobs and college. Lexi grew up in multiple foster homes and learned to become really distrustful of people and especially men. The only friend she has is an older cop who is still grieving and looking for his missing wife and child. On one of her shifts a man shows up and can’t take his eyes off her. Lexi ignores him, knowing he is a man that comes with a warning label. When he finally gets her to talk to him there is something different about him. She agrees to go to breakfast with him. What she doesn’t know is that her whole world is about to change.

Eryx Shantos is the Malren, the king of the Myren race. He lives in Eden a different world filled with supernatural people who look like human but are so much more. For ten years he has been having dreams of his mate. The problem is Myren don’t allow humans to know about them and Eryx isn’t sure if Lexi is human or Myren until he meets her. When he finally finds her he knows he has to bring her to Eden. That is where she belongs but now he isn’t the only one who has found her. Maxis, traitor and rival, has learned of her importance and will stop at nothing to get her and weaken Eryx so he can take over Eden.

This was an interesting story. Morgan really creates a whole different world filled with dominate sexy men and bad-ass women. Eryx is perfect. He is dominate, completely alpha male but there is also a vulnerability he shows us. He genuinely cares about Lexi and his people. Lexi is a strong character but it is more subtle. She has been through so much and she is still a functioning human being (not really human but you know what I mean). She has this whole new world thrown at her and she takes it in stride. She doesn’t toss and turn between going with the love she feels for Eryx and fighting it. I can definitely see her becoming a bad-ass fighter in the coming books.

The writing was great. Morgan created a world that I couldn’t help but devour. We had multiple POVs throughout the book. I am ok with having the villain’s POV but I didn’t really care for how much we saw of Maxis. I feel like it was easier for me to guess what he was going to do before it came in the story. I did like how we get both main characters and Galena’s POV There might be more but I’m not sure right now, either way the way the story was presented was great and the flow worked. I think we could have done without so much Maxis, a few chapters would have been better.

I can’t wait for the next book. I am dying to know about Galena and Reese. Really I want to know more about them all.
Profile Image for Sylvie.
113 reviews31 followers
September 25, 2015
I won this book during an author chat on Night Owl Reviews and I'm so glad I did! This one grabbed me and didn't let go till I was done!

Lexi Merrill is a young woman who, thanks to growing up in the foster care system, is distrustful of most people, men in particular. She works as a bartender, where she's heard just about every line there is. When Eryx Shantos, an extraordinarily hot and hunky guy, makes his way to her bar and gives her the eye, she ignores him on principle. Eventually she agrees to meet him for breakfast at the nearby Waffle House after her shift. On the way, they run into Maxis Steysis, a real slimeball of a villain. Eryx believes Lexi is in danger, since she's now on Maxis' radar, and determines that the best way to keep Lexi safe is to bring her home. Not her home, but rather his home. His home dimension, that is, of Eden.

What follows is a great story full of twists and turns and excitement, as well as humor and genuine emotion, as Lexi learns about the new world she's in, and she and Eryx learn about each other.

I really loved these characters. Lexi is tough and brave, adventurous and strong, with a great no-nonsense attitude. Eryx is a full-on warrior-king - strong, powerful and deadly to any who might try to take his throne. Yet with Lexi, he is completely gentle and giving. He soon earns Lexi's trust and her love, and their relationship is wonderful to watch unfold.

Many of the other characters are great as well. I especially loved Eryx's siblings Galena and Ramsay, and his right hand man, Ludan, was an absolute hoot! I hope we get to know them all better eventually, in their own books!
Profile Image for C.J. Burright.
Author 21 books380 followers
November 13, 2014
Unexpected Eden is a unique fantasy romance with tons of adventure, sexy-times, and characters who will stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Lexi is a no-nonsense bartender who never quite fit in. Immune to pick-up lines, she’s not impressed when Eryx and his Myren mojo walk into the bar…not that she knows anything about the Myren race. Yet. Eryx is king of the Myrens, the race who still lives in Eden. They’re forbidden to reveal themselves to humans. But he’s dreamed about Lexi for years and knows she’s the only one for him. Now that he’s found her, he’s not letting her go. Convincing Lexi isn’t so easy, and taking her to his world is a risk he has to take. I love this story so much! Eryx is a delicious alpha-male all the way, yet he’s not a jerk. And when he dances on that line, Lexi isn’t afraid to push him back. The chemistry between the two is smoking-hot, and the love scenes are scorching. Throw in a fabulous cast of secondary characters, a prophecy, a scheming villain, amazing story-building – there’s nothing not to love about Unexpected Eden, and I can’t wait for the sequel!
Profile Image for Audrey Carlan.
Author 240 books6,713 followers
January 7, 2015
This book is utterly beautiful. It's mystical, unique and unlike anything I've ever read! The characters have special abilities that will blow you away. I've not read a book before where flying occurred when it wasn't an Angel type creature. What Rhenna does in this tale is take you into a new world. Think JR Ward and her Black Dagger Brotherhood series. It's not like that, but the feeling you get when you're inside a world you've never been in, yet you feel completely connected to it like it's happening all around you...yeah, it's like that.

There's this incredibly COOL part where special tattooing is involved and I honest to god think my heart skipped a beat. At that point I was so hooked I couldn't see straight. The mating ceremony...gah! So amazing. I won't share what happened because it's too amazing. Just know that you are about to enter a world unlike any other. Enjoy every minute. I cannot wait to read book 2 to see how the supporting characters lives play out.

Rhenna Morgan is the next big Paranormal Author of my year. That's for sure!
Profile Image for Monica **can't read fast enough**.
1,033 reviews371 followers
February 23, 2015
UNEXPECTED EDEN is a great beginning to a series that I am really looking forward to continuing. The action is fast paced, the characters, both main and secondary are interesting, and the world being built by Morgan is one that I want to delve deeper into. There is only one criticism that I had with this one and that is I wanted more. I wanted more background information on almost everything! I realize that this is just book one so I hope that as the series continues much more information will be filled in.

The passion between Lexi and Eryx is lightening quick and hot as lava. The obstacles to their happiness is fraught with an evil mastermind in the form of Maxis. By the end of this one Morgan has me craving more from this world and there are plenty of stories that can still be told. I will be reading more books in this series in the future.

You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
Profile Image for Juliette Cross.
Author 51 books4,681 followers
May 19, 2016
Fabulous and original paranormal romance. Sexy hero and strong heroine in a cool new fantasy world. I loved how Eden felt so real, yet fantastical at the same time. Rhenna Morgan's worldbuilding kept me anticipating what would happen next. Fast-paced and action-packed, my favorite kind of paranormals. And her alpha males, both the MC and the secondary characters, were delicious in every way.

Lexi's discovery of her own role and powers in Eden felt real and well-paced. As well as the love building between Eryx and Lexi. If you like your romance steamy, then you definitely want to pick this one up. Perfect for a summer read and escape to a fantasy land.

Recommended to all lovers of paranormal romance.
Profile Image for Alison.
1,123 reviews13 followers
December 4, 2016
I really got into this series straight off

I love the mating of them coming together (totally cool)

I love how the PNR seems to be told in so much colour, I love going to these other worlds & dimensions!!

Look forward to the rest of the series as this one was just getting started
Profile Image for Ashley.
40 reviews4 followers
June 28, 2017
It's been awhile since I've read a paranormal, as I tend to jump on one genre wagon and ride it for a bit, before hopping off for a breather. I recently found Rhenna Morgan through her Men of Haven series, so when I saw her name attached to a paranormal, I knew I needed to give it a go. I wasn't disappointed. Reminiscent of JR Ward Black Dagger series, this book throws you right into a world you know nothing about. Unlike some of the other reviewers, I appreciate slowly being shown details of this other world at the same time Lexi discovers them, rather than being told them in monotonous narrative. I found it to be a fully developed realm, and I easily understood each detail as it was presented. And true to her other books, man was this HOT! Something about those Alpha males, whether they be human, or in this case, not. Interested to see where this story takes us, and looking forward to book 2!
Profile Image for Donna Till.
231 reviews2 followers
May 30, 2017
Love this book. From the start this book really gripped me and I just couldn't put it down, mange to read it in less than 24hrs. I love both the main characters Eryx and Lexi, as well as all the other characters and looking forward to reading book number 2!
Profile Image for Heidi Ryan.
309 reviews12 followers
February 10, 2015
This book took me by surprise. I hadn't heard of this author before, so I didn't know what to expect. This is an incredible read, the world the author has created is incredible and fascinating. The descriptive way to the story is so colorful and in depth, you feel like you are right there in that new world. I found myself not wanting the story to end, and it appears I get my wish, the threads left undone lead to a series to come. I will most definitely be reading more of the story as soon as it becomes available. One thing that really sets this book apart from other series' is that it seems most first books in a series have to waste so much of the story setting the scene for the rest of the series. This book does it so seamlessly that there is no long boring explanation of the author's world. You pick up pieces as you go through the story, never feeling that usual drag one encounters with created worlds in books. This author nails this right out of the gate.
Lexi Merrill is a no nonsense bartender. She can take care of herself and doesn't need anyone to do it for her. When a smooth talking man waltz's into her bar, trying to pick her up, she shuts down and battens down the hatches. But this smooth as silk man is unlike any other. Eryx Shantos is actually the leader of the Myrens. They live in a dimension just outside of our Earth. They live in Eden, yes, that one. They were created by God just like earthlings, but they are like a human 2.0. They live longer, have gifts tied to the elements, can communicate telepathically with family and those they choose to bond with, and some have empathic and healing abilities. Eryx has been coming to our earth searching for Lexi. He first found her in his dreams, and he has been looking for her ever since. Ten years he has searched and he finally found her working at this bar. He knows the fates have lead him to her, but he doesn't know if she is human or Myren. If she is only human, she would be forbidden to him. Humans cannot be told of his race. It is one of their strictest laws. But if she is one of theirs, they call them the lost, she may be part of a prophecy, and they don't know if that is good or bad. Breaking through her defenses, he convinces her to trust him and follow him home. She is blown away, and falling for him. Unfortunately, she has a lot to find out, and that may or may not tear her away from him. Back on Eden, Eryx's reign may be in trouble by a rebellion that wants to take over. When they learn of Lexi, they make plans to get to her. With help from a bitter ex, they may just succeed. Eryx will move Nirana and Eden to get her back from his enemies, but will he be able to get to her in time? Will the rebellion be successful? And who else will get hurt in the process? There is so much that occurs in this story, it is like an epic journey that is just getting started. I, for one, cannot wait to see what comes next. This book grabbed me from the beginning and just wound itself deeper into my heart as the story unfolded. This is looking like it will be a wonderful series, the characters and the incredible world the book lives in are so fresh and unique. I cannot say enough good things about it. If you love romance and fantasy, you have to check this book out. It is awesome!
Profile Image for Naturalbri (Bri Wignall).
1,381 reviews119 followers
January 12, 2015
What I Thought:

This is such a great book! If you, like me, are a lover of fantasy and are keen to read a little romance as well, then this is perfect.

The book is so well written. The theme of the book is one that is realistic enough that it is easy to get caught up in the story and almost believe that it is real. It is definitely one that you feel like it could actually happen. There are all the main points: a girl who needs a life she can enjoy, a man looking for his other half, friends and family to surround you, a horrible man who tries to ruin everything and, of course, your soon to be man is (sort-of) royalty.

I love that the beginning started with a woman who was content, but always wanted something more in her life. She had written off men and wasn't interested in even trying. She knew it would always end in heartache, but soon she is shown that is completely wrong and so much more. It was great to see her find out that some people are honest and can be trusted.

I was very drawn in to the romance between the two main characters. The amount of passion they felt was so strong it was almost unbearable, but in such a good way. It's the kind of passion we always dream of feeling and hope it's possible to find one day. The kind where a simple touch send jolts through your body.

I also thought it was important that there was a real fantasy point to the story, not just a bit of magic. They were actually caught up in the beginning of a great turmoil and it would take everyone and all their skills to keep Eden intact. It really brought out the fantasy element and that's what did it for me. I loved the romance, it was beautifully written, but having an excellent fantasy story alongside it was the icing on the cake.

Overall, the characters were excellent. The pace was great. I loved the fantasy nature and the supporting theme from the baddie, and subsequent action he caused. This book was excellent. I really enjoyed every page and feel that it is a book most fantasy, romance readers would love.
Profile Image for Isabelle MBTL .
749 reviews59 followers
December 29, 2014

review2
 

Lexi Merrill always keep her distance from people in general. She has never really fit in. One day a strange man challenge all her rules and get in her way. He saves her from a strange man and takes her into a life that she didn't even know it exist. Will she be able to finally fit in, or will this be another dead end in her life?

Unexpected Eden was really "unexpected". The plot and world built created by Ms. Morgan grabbed me almost from the beginning and I was pleasantly hooked until the end. Both characters were very easy to like, and several secondary characters have interested me enough that I'm dying to read their stories.

I would like to have known more about Lexi's life on Earth. I also believed the prophecy was not given a proper explanation, and needs to be explored better at the next book of the series.

This is a great first book for the author and I'm really looking forward to read more of this series.
You MAY read this book if you enjoy fantasies; you SHOULD read this book because you are looking for a great romance; but you MUST read this book if you are willing to enter a parallel world full of passion and love!
"The fates. Perhaps this was their destiny. To come together in this unexpected Eden and forever change the future of their race."



 This review was originally posted on More Books Than Livros
Profile Image for Megan (BookWifeReviews).
1,564 reviews54 followers
June 18, 2016
I got the 3rd book of this series on Netgalley.. I didn't realize it was the third before I requested it so now I'm reading the first 2 in the series first.

This one was pretty good. There is honestly a lot of things happening. Like soooooooo much. The Myren have way too many powers. Seriously some of their base powers are flying, telekinesis, and telepathy.. Seriously and these are powers that all of them get and then on top of those itty bitty powers they also get "major" powers. Like: healing, controlling the elements, being able to read emotions or and being able to shred minds.. you know no big deal... dude I'm sorry but thats too freaking much for these people to be able to do. I won't lie, I got kind of annoyed at that. It's not fun to read about a race that is literally all powerful.

I also felt like the book was hella long. I honestly don't know how long it actually was but I got a little bored in the beginning and then again towards the end.

Despite me bitching for the last forever I really did enjoy the book. The first book in a series like this is bound to be a little boring because the author has to get all the explaining out of the way. I get that, doesn't mean I'm not going to complain about it though :)

I really liked all of the characters. Lexi was a strong female and she was really well written for a queenly role. Eryx was a baddass with a soft spot for Lexi = which means he's the perfect guy. I really like Eryx somo (I'm guessing thats like his personally bodyguard.. they never really said) Ludan. He was funny in a serious sort of way. I was hoping to get his book next but nope we get Eryx sister.. who I also guess I liked.. a little. We shall see!
Profile Image for Pyper Diangelo.
80 reviews9 followers
April 4, 2015
4.5 stars for this wonderful magical world Rhenna Morgan has created with "Unexpected Eden". Story starts out a little wordy everything is described to the littlest detail. Some may love this, I myself find it a little distracting. I'm getting lost in the detail and it slows up the pace of the book. Only mentioning this because, I hate to skim any parts but I was so eager to get to the meat of the story (The blurb had me excited to find out, just where this story was going) that I was becoming a little impatient in the first couple chapters. But afterwards she hits her stride & it moves along very well without seeming like it's hurried.

Lexi or should I say Alexis, I love that name. Girl has some grit & spit in her, no swooning heroin here. And Eryx, that names fun to try and roll off your tongue. Man is hard yet his heart is nearly on his sleeve from the moment he comes into contact with Lexi, it's sweet. I enjoy the banter between them, how they bump heads and push pull and hide from another in a dance to feel the other out before putting their cards on the table. The trials and challenges they face once they meet are thrilling, following along as Lexi learns of his world is a true delight. We start out with Lexi at her bar tending job & Erxy who she believes just to be another Casanova yet it doesn't pan out that way.

Risking it all to bring her into his world, the journey they take together is wonderful as he introduces her to everything Eden has to offer. What would a story be without a little drama of a man named Maxis trying to destroy this & the tender sexy scenes between the two leads. All in all I love this book & see myself re-reading to visit once again.
Profile Image for Kristie.
1,170 reviews76 followers
January 6, 2018
This was a lot of fun. New world, new ideas, something really different and unexpected. I find myself needing to read the rest of the series soon. There are some issues I have with a few little things, but nothing major.

The story, while good, sometimes moves at a weird pace for me and felt rushed at times, not letting me learn about this world in an organic way. There are a lot of new words from this world, a language that is really their own, so having to stop and look at the glossary at the back stalled me some. If this was a paperback, maybe that would have been okay. But in the world of ebooks, bookmarking, finding the glossary and going back and forth is not as smooth as I'd like. Particularly when the main heroine was also new to this world, having to learn all of this at the same time I was. So I felt better descriptions and teaching moments would have made this flow better.

I really enjoyed it though so I'm off to read book 2.
Profile Image for Phoenix.
539 reviews9 followers
December 11, 2014
This book was very intriguing. At first, I was not sure how I would feel about this book since it was something unlike anything I had ever read, but I am glad I took the chance because it was written really well. It depicts an amazingly beautiful Eden and lures the reader in at every twist and turn. Even though it is in another world, it feels so real. The characters jump off the page and into your hearts. I can't wait to read the next one.

I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
For more reviews, go to my blog bbsbookreviews.com
Profile Image for Yvonne Wood.
1,013 reviews15 followers
July 9, 2017
Had this series on my to read list forever just waited for more books to come through. At the end of this first book it is everything I hoped it would be and more. Really looking forward to reading more and more about Eden. Reading about people with extra powers is just my cup of tea! Good storyline bellievable characters and love interest great!
Profile Image for Nelta.
510 reviews7 followers
June 27, 2017
This was a freebie and my first book by this author..
The characters and storyline will grab you from the get-go and I didn't close the cover until the last page.
I enjoyed this unusual book....
Profile Image for Books Movies Fandoms.
219 reviews12 followers
January 2, 2015
My Star Rating for Unexpected Eden is: 4 out of 5 stars! :)


My ‘Blogging Reader’s Review’ after reading an ARC Copy of ‘UNEXPECTED EDEN’(via: BooksMoviesFandoms.wordpress.com):

‘Unexpected Eden’ is the first novel of the Eden Series and was definitely such a lovely surprise. I rarely read and review novels from the Paranormal and Fantasy genres but I’m glad I was given the chance to check this one out. Reader’s are able to get a good feel of the story through the three P.O.V.’s(point of views) in this story of Alexis “Lexi” Merrill, Eryx Shantos, and Maxis Steysis.

Alexis “Lexi” Merrill is a beautiful black haired woman who works as a bartender in order to take care of herself now that she's an adult and on her own. She was raised in foster homes but eventually grew out of the system. She has only one person she considers her closest and trusted friend, an older man named Ian Smith who is a retired cop. When she meets eyes with an attractive stranger across the bar while she’s working one night, the life she’s known will soon be completely turned upside down. Her journey through life will go in a whole new unexpected direction.

When Eryx Shantos is led to her, he is certain that she is the one fate says will be his mate. He is tall, with a bold-sexiness to him and completely determined to make this beautiful woman his. The only thing is that he is not human and comes from a different world known as Eden where he holds a very important title among those like his kind who are called the Myren people.

I would love to say more about this amazing story but I’m afraid of giving away too much and spoiling the exciting storyline. Readers who love an entertaining paranormal or fantasy romance novel will enjoy this one. The main characters are easy to like and enjoyable to follow. All of the supporting characters were also easy to get attached to while reading this novel. I enjoyed the interactions between them all. There is also a dash of suspense because of the enemy who leads an underground group of Myren. The beginning of the story was fairly enjoyable but I was really captivated by the story so much more about halfway through because the suspense and action picks up there.

I recommend this great novel which is the debut novel and first of the series. How will Lexi feel when she finds out the truth about Eryx and where he is from? Who is determined to undermine and bring down Eryx and the Myren people that follow the current rulers? Who will live, who will die and who is at risk of being put in the middle of danger? I look forward to the next novel of this wonderful series. Check this one out because it was a fun read!


My star rating for UNEXPECTED EDEN is: 4 out of 5 stars! :)


Visit my Blog and see Memorable quotes and character photos of how I imagined them while reading UNEXPECTED EDEN.


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Profile Image for A.M..
Author 4 books35 followers
May 14, 2015
The equivalent of star-gazing: a phenomenal out-of-this-world experience.

From the very first sentence, things were already rolling. The story was told at a constant pace, left nothing crucial out. Great writing style, very easy to follow. The reader's experience was exactly the same as the main female character. Literally being thrown into something out of a Sci-Fi movie. Everything I read felt new and refreshing, there was always something more to learn, to read about. There was never a dull moment, not that I'm complaining.

The romance between the two main characters was extremely unique and beautiful. Forget the fact that from the moment Eryx, Malran of the Myren race, and Lexi met, it was like a mind-boggling, nerve-wrecking, never-ending roller coaster. The quickness of everything was what added to the intensity of there relationship and the importance of the many things to come. Eryx was super protective, and super gentle. However, that doesn't mean he can't lose control when it comes to a certain female, especially when there is some teasing and taunting going on. Being Myren does have its perks. So does being Malran. But the latter does have a few setbacks. Lexi has that no-nonsense attitude from the moment she meets Eryx, and does not lighten up regardless of his god-like body or the strong vibe she keeps getting from him even when they are several feet away. Eventually she does give in, though. Where is the fun in giving in so quickly when you can make things just a tad more interesting? Or a lot more interesting... The antagonists were very well depicted and I am amazed to say that I admire the evilness as much as I abhore the thought of it all. Sick and twisted at its finest ladies and gents.

I can honesty say that this was unlike anything I have ever read, and I rejoiced in reading something so different and intriguing to a reader's eye. The content in this book was, to put it bluntly "Well hung and loaded."

In the end, I felt that things ended a bit too quickly. I feel that there is more to tell when it comes down to the whereabouts of Eryx's ex and nemesis, Maxis and Serena, but then again it just goes to show that things are far from over. I would have also liked to know the the true extent of collateral damage that was caused.

Overall, I absolutely enjoyed this wonderfully written story and am ecstatic to get my hands on the next book in the series. I commend the author and editor on their hard work and would highly recommend this read to those looking for an out-of-this-world experience. I can guarantee that this story can catch just about anyone's eye.
Profile Image for Diaries of 2 Thick Chicks.
181 reviews14 followers
January 13, 2015
Hallelujah the odds are ever in my favor because new author Rhenna Morgan has released a series to take the place of one of my all time favorites series the Night Huntress Series. Unexpected Eden was a journey into a mystical world that runs parallel to Earth with alpha males that can fly, wield energy balls of fire, open doors with their minds and stroke all the right places with just a simple thought! **wink wink** Can a woman ask for more?

Well it seems Lexi can do just that when she meets the beautiful and strange Eryx and two hours later finds herself being whisked away from the realm of Earth to Eden, an unknown realm she knows nothing about. If that wasn't enough, Lexi soon learns that she is a lost Myren and somehow ended up in Earth's realm with no idea who her parents are and how she ended up on Earth. Even more, she's Eryx's fated mate and the queen of Eden. When her powers are awakened, all sorts of havoc takes place and after her mating, an old prophecy comes into the picture that states together Lexi and Eryx will bring Eden into a new era.

While I loved the characters of Lexi and Eryx, what really pulled me into the book were the secondary characters of Ludan, Galena, and Ramsay. Galena and Ramsay are Eryx's brother and sister and ludan is his personal guard. All three characters brought humor and lightheartedness to the overall storyline, as well as made me interested in finding out how their characters will shape the overall story arc. I'm particularly interested in Galena and the impending story of her attraction to the enemy's army trainer. He struck me as interesting from the start and with the way the book ended, my curiosity is even more peeked at this point.

Rhenna Morgan did an excellent job setting up the villains in the story. Both Maxis and Serena have an ax to grind with Eryx and his family line. It will be interesting to see how twisted things get now that these two are together. All in all, I loved this first book and had it not been for the long drawn out detailed middle of the story, this would have been a solid 5 keys for me. Don't get me wrong, the details were necessary especially with this being the first book, they were just a little bit too slow for my taste. Either way, I'm on board for future books and can't wait to see how Morgan develops the story further. Loved the twist with Ian at the end. I'm giving Unexpected Eden 4 Sweltering Keys!

Go pick up your copy today!
Profile Image for Cheryl La Pa.
395 reviews66 followers
January 1, 2015
Unexpected Eden is a story about a powerful race living in a different realm, a prophecy and fated love. It is also about exploring new powers and responsibility, about trusting your instincts and believing in yourself, about fitting in and starting a new life.

Beautifully written with wonderful characters and incredible world building, Unexpected Eden took me on an adventure into a fascinating, magical realm where Lexi learns of her heritage and destiny. She must follow her instincts and listen to her heart as she is thrust into a new world with a new love and new responsibilities. It is different to the world that she has grown up in, and she is intrigued as well as apprehensive and overwhelmed. She must quickly learn the customs and laws of Eden and decide if she wants this to be her new home. All is not ‘Eden’ though as Lexi’s connection with Eryx makes her the perfect target.

The relationship between Eryx and Lexi was heart-warming and beautifully portrayed and it easy to understand why Lexi found Eryx so irresistible. Eryx is so open with his feelings for Lexi, and goes to great lengths to lay claim to her and show his love.

I loved Ramsay, Ludan and Galena, and felt that they added depth and humour to the story. I hope that they feature more in future books.

Some favourite quotes:

Such warm, heartfelt words. They radiated out across Lexi’s soul and cocooned her spirit in a soft embrace. Orla held her for long, patient moments.


“Ah, yes. Your manly image. Let’s see...” Ramsay coughed dramatically and placed a theatric hand at his chest. “He’s the soul of bravery, wisdom and discipline. Women flock to him and he has no equal in the sensual arts. That work better for you?”
Ludan rolled his eyes. “I think the short version is ‘Well hung and loaded.’”


This was a fascinating journey though I would have liked a few more plot twists. I also felt that Lexi’s retelling of her past trauma was told in a very matter of fact way and that there could have been more focus on her feelings and thoughts.

To sum up, this is an enjoyable, beautifully written story and I eagerly await the next instalment.
Profile Image for Stephanie Weiford.
Author 2 books2 followers
February 24, 2015
I was so excited to find a book like this! As an avid supporter of all things fantasy, it’s good to see new authors expanding in this genre! I just had to say yes to a read & review for this book!

Here’s my reading experience: (Warning Spoilers beyond this point) Ever read a story where the characters names just don’t fit their personalities? Well author Rhenna Morgan, has not only adeptly named her characters but has given them explosive personalities to back them up! Lexi and Eryx are full of wit, charm, bravery, and steamy romance! I’ll admit that the emotions feel a bit rushed, BUT I will also point out that Eryx has been waiting an awfully long time for Lexi, so who can blame him for all that pent up love and lust?

Maxis is the perfect villain, and I want to give Morgan some BIG props for the way she handled his story. It was very well done, how we get to see his run in at the beginning with our main characters, and then his story continues on its own until the big blow out at the end. While reading I wanted to shout at our protagonists that Maxis was plotting against them, but of course they were busy will some well-deserved alone time!

The story was well crafted, and using Eden as a setting was perfect. You can really tell the author put a lot of thought into the world she created; there is a hierarchy and order that keeps everything moving forward in a way that makes sense.

I would like to see more of Ian in the next book, and I think we will. He is a good tie for Lexi to have to her old life, and Morgan also seems to be setting him up for a very interesting story.

However, and this may be a bit of surprise, but I would name Ludan as my favorite character! What can I say? I prefer the ‘rough around the edges type’! I can’t wait to see what Morgan has in store for him and the others as the series continues!
Profile Image for KathyAnne.
570 reviews97 followers
December 28, 2014
Wish the time line of events was longer... everything happened way too fast. It's always better with a slower build up between couples. Lexi and her reactions to all that was happening to her was too accepting considering she knew nothing about Eden or this man Eryx who claims she was destined to be his mate. I wanted more resistance from her and definitely more chase!
The world development was very rushed as well. I think this probably should have been broken into two books with a slower coming together of the couple and more attention paid to introducing the world of Eden.
I really liked the overall premise to the story and there are some great supporting characters so, I'll definitely stick around for the next installment. I really liked Eryx sister and looks like book two will focus on her and her potential love interest Reese. Hopefully the pace of the story will slow down a bit in book two.
Fans of insta-romance may have a different view of this story so definitely give this a go if this is you!

ARC provided by Kensington Books via netgalley


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Profile Image for Sportochick.
623 reviews13 followers
December 2, 2014
This book is a new exciting theme that draws you in with solid characters that wrap around your senses and keep you spellbound till the very end. There is intrigue, murder, kidnapping and love all wrapped into this storyline.

Though the primary characters are Alexis (Lexi) and Eyrx with the villians being Maxis, Serena and Reese Theron. The secondary characters of Ian, Ludan, Galena, Jagger, and Ramsay are so mesmerizing that I can see this series going on for a very long time.

A thought provoking story of the existence of Eden where people known as the Myren race live. The author goes into great description of what this land looks like and further draws you into the story with how a Myren man loves and honors his mate. I came away with a sense of longing for this never-ending type of love described in this book and the desire to see other characters in this book find the same love.

At the end of a battle there is an interaction between healer Galena and the leader of the enemy army, Reese, that will break your heart and you will wonder “Is there really a way to mend broken souls?”. I loved Galena’s answer and look forward to see it happen in future books by this author.

Memorable Quote of the book - "Never tell me what you think I want to hear. I can't provide for your needs if you don't share them" Eryx to Lexi at their mating

To see the full review visit my blog: sportochicksmusings.blogspot .com

I WAS GIFTED AN ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST OPINION VIA NETGALLEY.
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