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Xarc'n Warriors
Holly and the Hunter
Deck the halls… or die trying.
I’ve spent months preparing for the holidays. Gifts for the children, hand-knit stockings, and enough decorations to cover New Franklin in Christmas cheer. It was going to be perfect.
Then the raiders came.
They didn’t take food. Or medicine. Or anything remotely useful for surviving winter. No, they stole the crate full of holiday magic. Everything is gone. Even the star for the tree.
Now the settlement’s focused on repairs and defense, and no one has time to recover what was lost. Except me. And the only person available to help? A grumpy, battle-hardened Xarc’n warrior who thinks tinsel is a tactical hazard.
But grumpy protector or not, we’re going to make this work. He’s got the blade, I’ve got the sparkle, and together, we are going to save Christmas.
This is a standalone novella-length holiday story set in the Xarc’n Warrior universe. Get ready for a sweet and steamy adventure with a HEA guaranteed!
I’ve spent months preparing for the holidays. Gifts for the children, hand-knit stockings, and enough decorations to cover New Franklin in Christmas cheer. It was going to be perfect.
Then the raiders came.
They didn’t take food. Or medicine. Or anything remotely useful for surviving winter. No, they stole the crate full of holiday magic. Everything is gone. Even the star for the tree.
Now the settlement’s focused on repairs and defense, and no one has time to recover what was lost. Except me. And the only person available to help? A grumpy, battle-hardened Xarc’n warrior who thinks tinsel is a tactical hazard.
But grumpy protector or not, we’re going to make this work. He’s got the blade, I’ve got the sparkle, and together, we are going to save Christmas.
This is a standalone novella-length holiday story set in the Xarc’n Warrior universe. Get ready for a sweet and steamy adventure with a HEA guaranteed!
116 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 4, 2025
78 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Lynnea Lee
56 books482 followersLynnea Lee is a recovered serial monogamist who now lives in her forever home with the man of her dreams. Still hopelessly addicted to the feeling of falling in love she now feeds her habit with a routine prescription of romance novels and rampant imagination. When she is not dreaming up fantastical stories of love, lust and romance, her hobbies includes talking to her plants, putting on a full face of makeup to stay home on Saturday nights and hugging her dog longer than is appreciated.
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December 23, 2025
Alien Bugs, Holiday Spirit & Unexpected Bonds
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💜💚❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌎
Character development: 😋😀😍☺️🥰
📚 Book Review: Holly and the Hunter (Xarc’n Warriors)
Author: Lynnea Lee
Genre: Science Fiction/Alien Romance
🦸🏼♀️ Holly – The Heart of New Franklin
In the ever-growing settlement of New Franklin, Holly shoulders the impossible task of bringing Christmas to life amid the Bugpocalypse. Between baking cookies, stringing decorations, and ensuring every child has a gift, she embodies the warmth and resilience of her community. Her determination to preserve joy—even in a world overrun by alien insects—makes her the settlement’s quiet heroine.
🦸🏻♂️ Burr’k – The Reluctant Protector
Burr’k, a gruff Xarc’n warrior, has little patience for human traditions. To him, Christmas is baffling—songs, lights, and gifts pale beside the honor of celebrating warriors. Yet beneath his surly exterior lies a fighter torn between duty and curiosity. Assigned to guard Holly on her dangerous foraging missions, he finds himself drawn into her world of stubborn hope and holiday magic.
📚 The Story
When raiders strike New Franklin, stealing vital supplies—including the decorations and presents meant for Christmas—the community faces heartbreak. Fueled by determination, Holly vows to replace what was lost, even with only a week left before the holiday. With Burr’k at her side, she braves toy stores and scavenging runs, confronting not only hostile raiders but the deeper mistrust humans harbor toward the Xarc’n. Together, they fight to reclaim joy in a fractured world.
🌟 Highlights
• Series Continuity: As a longtime fan of this dystopian saga, I loved seeing a holiday novella woven into the larger arc. The blend of action, alien warriors, and festive spirit felt fresh and fun.
• New Stakes: The raiders add a chilling twist—armed with stolen Xarc’n tech and fueled by dangerous beliefs, they raise the tension and hint at larger conflicts to come.
• Mate Bond Magic: The series’ signature mate bond remains a favorite. That sudden, unbreakable embrace—lasting hours or days—never fails to deliver emotional punch.
💔 Where It Fell Short
Novellas always leave me wanting more. While this story was engaging, I wished it had the length to fully explore the raider threat and resolve more of the lingering questions in this world.
💬 Final Thoughts
A festive, action-packed interlude in a beloved series, this novella balances alien battles with holiday heart. Holly’s determination and Burr’k’s reluctant partnership make for a charming clash of traditions, proving that even in the darkest times, joy is worth fighting for.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💜💚❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌎
Character development: 😋😀😍☺️🥰
📚 Book Review: Holly and the Hunter (Xarc’n Warriors)
Author: Lynnea Lee
Genre: Science Fiction/Alien Romance
🦸🏼♀️ Holly – The Heart of New Franklin
In the ever-growing settlement of New Franklin, Holly shoulders the impossible task of bringing Christmas to life amid the Bugpocalypse. Between baking cookies, stringing decorations, and ensuring every child has a gift, she embodies the warmth and resilience of her community. Her determination to preserve joy—even in a world overrun by alien insects—makes her the settlement’s quiet heroine.
🦸🏻♂️ Burr’k – The Reluctant Protector
Burr’k, a gruff Xarc’n warrior, has little patience for human traditions. To him, Christmas is baffling—songs, lights, and gifts pale beside the honor of celebrating warriors. Yet beneath his surly exterior lies a fighter torn between duty and curiosity. Assigned to guard Holly on her dangerous foraging missions, he finds himself drawn into her world of stubborn hope and holiday magic.
📚 The Story
When raiders strike New Franklin, stealing vital supplies—including the decorations and presents meant for Christmas—the community faces heartbreak. Fueled by determination, Holly vows to replace what was lost, even with only a week left before the holiday. With Burr’k at her side, she braves toy stores and scavenging runs, confronting not only hostile raiders but the deeper mistrust humans harbor toward the Xarc’n. Together, they fight to reclaim joy in a fractured world.
🌟 Highlights
• Series Continuity: As a longtime fan of this dystopian saga, I loved seeing a holiday novella woven into the larger arc. The blend of action, alien warriors, and festive spirit felt fresh and fun.
• New Stakes: The raiders add a chilling twist—armed with stolen Xarc’n tech and fueled by dangerous beliefs, they raise the tension and hint at larger conflicts to come.
• Mate Bond Magic: The series’ signature mate bond remains a favorite. That sudden, unbreakable embrace—lasting hours or days—never fails to deliver emotional punch.
💔 Where It Fell Short
Novellas always leave me wanting more. While this story was engaging, I wished it had the length to fully explore the raider threat and resolve more of the lingering questions in this world.
💬 Final Thoughts
A festive, action-packed interlude in a beloved series, this novella balances alien battles with holiday heart. Holly’s determination and Burr’k’s reluctant partnership make for a charming clash of traditions, proving that even in the darkest times, joy is worth fighting for.
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December 5, 2025
He’s got the blade. She’s got the sparkle. Together, they’re going to save Christmas... or die trying.
Holly’s spent months prepping the perfect holiday for New Franklin. Hand-knit stockings, toys for the kids, enough decorations to make the whole settlement shine. Then raiders take it all, leaving behind silence where joy should be. No one has time to fix it except her.
Burr’k’s a Xarc’n warrior running on instinct and grit. Stoic, scarred, and not big on glitter, he doesn’t get why humans cling to celebration. But when he’s ordered to escort Holly on a supply run through scorched towns and snowy ruins, her spirit gets under his skin and starts melting his walls.
What starts as forced proximity turns into shared survival. Blaster fire, frozen nights, quiet meals, and the kind of touches that speak louder than words. They push past tension, learn to rely on each other, and realize that wanting someone is easy. Keeping them takes real strength.
As the danger builds, so do the feelings neither of them expected. Burr’k can't ignore the instinct to protect her. Holly sees through his rough exterior and into the heart he hides. Side by side, they stop running and start choosing each other for real.
They don’t just survive the journey, they evolve. Holly steps into her strength, not just as a planner but as someone who leads with fire and fight. Burr’k opens up, lets love in, and becomes more than a soldier. Together, they find something worth holding on to.
A steamy, grumpy sunshine, forced proximity, fated mates, alien warrior x human female, post-apocalyptic holiday romance exploring love, resilience, sacrifice, cultural connection, and healing through intimacy. It’s about two people from different worlds finding light in the wreckage, choosing joy after loss, and learning to trust when it feels safer not to.
The Elevator Pitch: A determined woman and a gruff alien warrior team up to recover stolen Christmas supplies in a post-apocalyptic world. What begins as a reluctant partnership becomes a slow burn romance filled with danger, intimacy, and emotional transformation. It’s a steamy, high-stakes holiday story about trust, survival, and love that refuses to quit.
Holly’s spent months prepping the perfect holiday for New Franklin. Hand-knit stockings, toys for the kids, enough decorations to make the whole settlement shine. Then raiders take it all, leaving behind silence where joy should be. No one has time to fix it except her.
Burr’k’s a Xarc’n warrior running on instinct and grit. Stoic, scarred, and not big on glitter, he doesn’t get why humans cling to celebration. But when he’s ordered to escort Holly on a supply run through scorched towns and snowy ruins, her spirit gets under his skin and starts melting his walls.
What starts as forced proximity turns into shared survival. Blaster fire, frozen nights, quiet meals, and the kind of touches that speak louder than words. They push past tension, learn to rely on each other, and realize that wanting someone is easy. Keeping them takes real strength.
As the danger builds, so do the feelings neither of them expected. Burr’k can't ignore the instinct to protect her. Holly sees through his rough exterior and into the heart he hides. Side by side, they stop running and start choosing each other for real.
They don’t just survive the journey, they evolve. Holly steps into her strength, not just as a planner but as someone who leads with fire and fight. Burr’k opens up, lets love in, and becomes more than a soldier. Together, they find something worth holding on to.
A steamy, grumpy sunshine, forced proximity, fated mates, alien warrior x human female, post-apocalyptic holiday romance exploring love, resilience, sacrifice, cultural connection, and healing through intimacy. It’s about two people from different worlds finding light in the wreckage, choosing joy after loss, and learning to trust when it feels safer not to.
The Elevator Pitch: A determined woman and a gruff alien warrior team up to recover stolen Christmas supplies in a post-apocalyptic world. What begins as a reluctant partnership becomes a slow burn romance filled with danger, intimacy, and emotional transformation. It’s a steamy, high-stakes holiday story about trust, survival, and love that refuses to quit.
November 29, 2025
Some holiday romances sparkle with magic. Some deliver action, danger, and high-stakes adventure. And Holly and the Hunter by Lynnea Lee somehow gives us both—a story that blends Christmas cheer with alien warriors, human resilience, and a love that grows in the most unlikely places.
From the very first pages, Holly stole my heart. She’s the kind of heroine you instantly root for—warm, determined, and carrying the weight of everyone’s hope on her shoulders. In a world still reeling from the Scourge, Christmas isn’t just a holiday in New Franklin; it’s a lifeline, especially for the children. Holly pours her entire soul into creating something bright and beautiful for them.
So when raiders steal the crate holding every bit of their holiday magic? It hurts. Deeply. And you feel that ache with her, because it’s not just about decorations—it’s about survival of the spirit.
And then there’s Burr’k.
The ultimate grumpy alien warrior—scarred, frustrated, and furious that he’s being sent on what he considers a frivolous, pointless mission. He wants battle, not ornaments. He wants to prove himself again, not babysit a human woman with tinsel in her hair and hope in her eyes.
But the beauty of this book is how quickly their dynamic becomes addictive.
Holly’s sunshine warmth crashes right into Burr’k’s cold, armored exterior, and watching her positivity chip away at his walls is pure joy. Their banter is sharp, funny, and packed with chemistry you can feel. And the forced proximity? Absolute perfection.
Yet what makes this story truly stand out is the emotion woven between the humor and action. Holly is fighting for joy in a world that’s lost so much. Burr’k is fighting for a sense of purpose after years of feeling broken. They both step into this mission reluctantly, only to discover something far more important than presents or battle scars:
They find each other.
As danger closes in, as their hunt becomes more treacherous than expected, and as Christmas ticks ever closer, the tension between them shifts from antagonistic to undeniably tender. Burr’k becomes Holly’s protector, but Holly becomes his healing. Their connection blossoms in the most unexpected, beautifully human way.
This book is adventurous, heartfelt, hilarious, and full of holiday spirit. It’s gripping enough to keep your pulse racing but warm enough to melt even the iciest alien warrior’s heart.
If you love:
💫 Grumpy vs. sunshine
💫 Forced proximity with high stakes
💫 Christmas magic in a post-apocalyptic world
💫 Alien warriors with hidden softness
💫 Heroines who refuse to give up on hope
Then Holly and the Hunter will absolutely sweep you away.
It’s more than a mission to save Christmas.
It’s a story about choosing hope, choosing connection, and discovering that even in the darkest of worlds, love still finds a way to shine.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
From the very first pages, Holly stole my heart. She’s the kind of heroine you instantly root for—warm, determined, and carrying the weight of everyone’s hope on her shoulders. In a world still reeling from the Scourge, Christmas isn’t just a holiday in New Franklin; it’s a lifeline, especially for the children. Holly pours her entire soul into creating something bright and beautiful for them.
So when raiders steal the crate holding every bit of their holiday magic? It hurts. Deeply. And you feel that ache with her, because it’s not just about decorations—it’s about survival of the spirit.
And then there’s Burr’k.
The ultimate grumpy alien warrior—scarred, frustrated, and furious that he’s being sent on what he considers a frivolous, pointless mission. He wants battle, not ornaments. He wants to prove himself again, not babysit a human woman with tinsel in her hair and hope in her eyes.
But the beauty of this book is how quickly their dynamic becomes addictive.
Holly’s sunshine warmth crashes right into Burr’k’s cold, armored exterior, and watching her positivity chip away at his walls is pure joy. Their banter is sharp, funny, and packed with chemistry you can feel. And the forced proximity? Absolute perfection.
Yet what makes this story truly stand out is the emotion woven between the humor and action. Holly is fighting for joy in a world that’s lost so much. Burr’k is fighting for a sense of purpose after years of feeling broken. They both step into this mission reluctantly, only to discover something far more important than presents or battle scars:
They find each other.
As danger closes in, as their hunt becomes more treacherous than expected, and as Christmas ticks ever closer, the tension between them shifts from antagonistic to undeniably tender. Burr’k becomes Holly’s protector, but Holly becomes his healing. Their connection blossoms in the most unexpected, beautifully human way.
This book is adventurous, heartfelt, hilarious, and full of holiday spirit. It’s gripping enough to keep your pulse racing but warm enough to melt even the iciest alien warrior’s heart.
If you love:
💫 Grumpy vs. sunshine
💫 Forced proximity with high stakes
💫 Christmas magic in a post-apocalyptic world
💫 Alien warriors with hidden softness
💫 Heroines who refuse to give up on hope
Then Holly and the Hunter will absolutely sweep you away.
It’s more than a mission to save Christmas.
It’s a story about choosing hope, choosing connection, and discovering that even in the darkest of worlds, love still finds a way to shine.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 29, 2025
Fun Christmas Tale!
Holly is in charge of the annual Christmas celebration at New Franklin. It’s their way of making sure the children of New Franklin have some cheer and hope in their lives as everyone struggles to survive after the Scourge came to earth. When their compound is attacked by the human raiders and all of the Christmas presents and decorations are stolen, Holly is devastated. But she is determined to go out and try and find replacements, even though Christmas is only a week away. All she needs is a Hunter to take her and help.
Burr’k is the ultimate grumpy warrior. Gravely injured early in his career, he has had to stay on the mother ship to do support work. He longs to get back to the fight against the Scourge, but until just recently he wasn’t recovered enough to even try. When asked if there was a warrior available to help go out and look for replacements for the Christmas gifts stolen, he is angry when his boss volunteers him. No way should he have to go out and waste time on a celebration he doesn’t understand and considers frivolous. He should he out fighting!
When Holly meets Burr’k she can’t believe how grumpy and unfriendly he is. Oh well, she will just have to kill him with kindness! Burr’k has seen Holly from a distance but has never talked to her. Even though he want’s nothing to do with her or the mission, he is inexplicably drawn to her. Will these two survive being in close quarters for a day? But the mission doesn’t go as planned and danger lurks around every corner. Seems Burr’k has gotten his wish to fight the enemy, but will Holly get hers in time to save Christmas!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Holly is in charge of the annual Christmas celebration at New Franklin. It’s their way of making sure the children of New Franklin have some cheer and hope in their lives as everyone struggles to survive after the Scourge came to earth. When their compound is attacked by the human raiders and all of the Christmas presents and decorations are stolen, Holly is devastated. But she is determined to go out and try and find replacements, even though Christmas is only a week away. All she needs is a Hunter to take her and help.
Burr’k is the ultimate grumpy warrior. Gravely injured early in his career, he has had to stay on the mother ship to do support work. He longs to get back to the fight against the Scourge, but until just recently he wasn’t recovered enough to even try. When asked if there was a warrior available to help go out and look for replacements for the Christmas gifts stolen, he is angry when his boss volunteers him. No way should he have to go out and waste time on a celebration he doesn’t understand and considers frivolous. He should he out fighting!
When Holly meets Burr’k she can’t believe how grumpy and unfriendly he is. Oh well, she will just have to kill him with kindness! Burr’k has seen Holly from a distance but has never talked to her. Even though he want’s nothing to do with her or the mission, he is inexplicably drawn to her. Will these two survive being in close quarters for a day? But the mission doesn’t go as planned and danger lurks around every corner. Seems Burr’k has gotten his wish to fight the enemy, but will Holly get hers in time to save Christmas!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 29, 2025
'I’d been so excited to go on this trip. I’d seen how sweet the hunters were with their mates, and I was really hoping something romantic might come of it. And even if it didn’t, maybe he’d have friends he could introduce me to. But Burr’k was grumpy and surly and didn’t look like he wanted to be here one bit.
The guy looked like he was carved from stone, but it didn’t matter that he had the hottest freaking body I’d ever seen if he constantly acted like he’d been denied his morning coffee.'
I loved this book. I was excited to read a Christmas Xarc'n romance. Great world building and wonderful characters. The story was fast-paced and exciting from the start from the raider attack and turned into an adventure. I loved both Holly and Burr'k. She's the sunshine to his grumpy. She was excited for the festivities and determined to make Christmas happen. He couldn't wrap his mind around the point of the holidays. He didn't seem happy to go out with her to forage the things they needed (or understood half of them), and his shuttle wasn't one bit cozy, but Holly was on a mission to save Christmas. Turns out she was finding love, too.
A fun, cute romance. And I love the cover! So cute and festive! 5 stars
The guy looked like he was carved from stone, but it didn’t matter that he had the hottest freaking body I’d ever seen if he constantly acted like he’d been denied his morning coffee.'
I loved this book. I was excited to read a Christmas Xarc'n romance. Great world building and wonderful characters. The story was fast-paced and exciting from the start from the raider attack and turned into an adventure. I loved both Holly and Burr'k. She's the sunshine to his grumpy. She was excited for the festivities and determined to make Christmas happen. He couldn't wrap his mind around the point of the holidays. He didn't seem happy to go out with her to forage the things they needed (or understood half of them), and his shuttle wasn't one bit cozy, but Holly was on a mission to save Christmas. Turns out she was finding love, too.
A fun, cute romance. And I love the cover! So cute and festive! 5 stars
December 21, 2025
DANG, I love these warriors when they fall and fall HARD for the lady meant for them. Burr'k is in the process of adjusting to this new way of life on Earth and he still has that warrior mindset. To be fair, he was stationed on one of the motherships due to an injury and he hadn't really interacted with humans until recently. So, yeah, he's a little surly, doesn't quite understand what drives humans, and is still caught up in the way of life he knew before.
BUT...Holly's about to change all that. Sure, Burr'k grumpy and a little abrupt, but Holly has enough holiday cheer for the both of them. It's doesn't take long before the big guy sees that it's not about the presents, but about the hope and good cheer Holly spreads with her generosity.
A little danger (between raiders and bugs, there's always something to keep an eye out for), a road trip for presents and decorations, a couple of steamy kisses, a warrior who is looking for his place in this new world, and a lady who finds something for herself when she wasn't looking. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
BUT...Holly's about to change all that. Sure, Burr'k grumpy and a little abrupt, but Holly has enough holiday cheer for the both of them. It's doesn't take long before the big guy sees that it's not about the presents, but about the hope and good cheer Holly spreads with her generosity.
A little danger (between raiders and bugs, there's always something to keep an eye out for), a road trip for presents and decorations, a couple of steamy kisses, a warrior who is looking for his place in this new world, and a lady who finds something for herself when she wasn't looking. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
December 5, 2025
This book is packed with action and humour, so you won't want to stop reading. Holly is the sunshine to Burr'k's grumpiness. Their compound was raided and the only crate stolen had all the Christmas decorations and gifts in it. Our two MCS are on a mission to save Christmas for people who badly need the good cheer in a world otherwise filled with darkness. Holly has to help the Xarc'n hunter see the value in a holiday that just seems pointless to him. All he wants to do is train to hunt the scourge for the first time in years. As they continue their foraging, danger strikes, and he can finally put his hunting skills to good use. And Holly? She gets the Xarc'n warrior she's been longing for and a Christmas to remember. I love their interactions with each other and with all of the side characters. Between that and the thrilling action, you will not want to miss this book, especially if you have enjoyed the other books in the series like I have.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 30, 2025
As soon as I heard Lynnea was expanding on these sexy purple Xarc'n Warriors I did a big happy dance. This book is so good and I loved how Christmas was spun into this series. Holly is on a mission to keep Christmas on track for everyone at the settlement and their kids. Holly has always wanted one of the warriors for herself, and now she gets to go on this mission with one of her own. Burr'k thinks this whole little shopping trip is a waste of time and now he is stuck with one of these human women when he would rather be training to take these bugs down himself. This was such a fun read and anyone who has tried this series do not hesitate to rush and get your own copy. It is worth every penny, and be prepared to not want to put it down. I loved every single moment of this story. The chemistry between these two was so much fun to read and how a grumpy, growly hunter turns into a softy when it comes to his woman.
December 2, 2025
With a name like Holly can she really be anything but a holiday aficionado? Of course the raiders have to show up and steal all the kids presents and the New Franklin decorations! What makes it worse is it's almost Christmas and the first one safe one for many kids.
Holly volunteers to go on a scavenger trip and gets matched with the grumpy new comer Burr'k who is still learning social niceties. Although Burr'k learns quickly and one of the sweetest/romantic scenes has to do with a stuffed animal. The scavenger hunt ends up being a fun and very successful.
This is a great short read that gives more behind the scenes of what is going on and possibilities for the future. Hint, hint, we need a New Year's celebration with some fun/whacky resolutions. While this book can be read as a stand-alone it is more enjoyable revisiting with previous characters from other books.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Holly volunteers to go on a scavenger trip and gets matched with the grumpy new comer Burr'k who is still learning social niceties. Although Burr'k learns quickly and one of the sweetest/romantic scenes has to do with a stuffed animal. The scavenger hunt ends up being a fun and very successful.
This is a great short read that gives more behind the scenes of what is going on and possibilities for the future. Hint, hint, we need a New Year's celebration with some fun/whacky resolutions. While this book can be read as a stand-alone it is more enjoyable revisiting with previous characters from other books.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2025
When raiders manage to steal all that they had managed to forage and make for Christmas over the past year, Holly goes on a foraging expedition to see if she can replace it. Burr'k, a Xarc'n warrior who is still trying to find his place in New Franklin, is sent with her. Not understanding what Christmas is all about, Holly tries to explain to the grumpy Xarc'n that what they are doing brings hope, but the trip is not as easy as it looked and hope is thin on the ground that they will make it back to the compound in one piece. A beautiful short story that is sweet, spicy and with enough drama that will leave you holding your breath. I love how their relationship journey developed and if you love a sunshine/grumpy post apocalyptic story, then you will adore this seasonal novella. Lynnea has created a world that captivates, entertains and leaves us on the edge of our seats and I love it.
December 5, 2025
Christmas Story Xarc’n Style
Loved this cute, sweet and steamy Grumpy, Sunshine story with a Christmas theme!
In New Franklin, survivors have banded together to fight the scourge and try to have a semblance of a normal life. With Christmas around the corner, they have been preparing to celebrate the holiday with the children. A group of raiders ruin this plan by stealing all the Christmas presents and decorations.
With no time to spare, Holly is determined to save Christmas and gets paired up with the grumpiest of Xarc’n warriors.
Burr’k has been recovering from an injury he got from fighting the scourge. Now that he’s back, he gets paired with Holly and he’s not thrilled about this mission.
That all changes when they spend time together and the mating bond adds a thrilling twist to this Christmas love story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved this cute, sweet and steamy Grumpy, Sunshine story with a Christmas theme!
In New Franklin, survivors have banded together to fight the scourge and try to have a semblance of a normal life. With Christmas around the corner, they have been preparing to celebrate the holiday with the children. A group of raiders ruin this plan by stealing all the Christmas presents and decorations.
With no time to spare, Holly is determined to save Christmas and gets paired up with the grumpiest of Xarc’n warriors.
Burr’k has been recovering from an injury he got from fighting the scourge. Now that he’s back, he gets paired with Holly and he’s not thrilled about this mission.
That all changes when they spend time together and the mating bond adds a thrilling twist to this Christmas love story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2025
"It was about making life worth living."
Burr'k is an alien struggling to understand the human holidays, among other things. Whether or not he realizes it, his world has been turned upside down just as much as these people struggling to survive a "bugpocalyse", but sometimes life really is what you make of it, and how you choose to react.
Holly is determined to give the kids in their community a joyous and festive Christmas. With everything else that has been taken away from them, a day to be happy, to gather with friends as a community, to open thoughtful gifts doesn't sound like too much to ask for, even if the Universe is conspiring against her holiday cheer.
This done in one kindle unlimited quick read captures what makes the holidays so special, particularly for kids. The gifts symbolize many things, not least of all that someone sees you, recognizes and appreciates you, and wants to share a moment of joy with you, even when distance may separate you.
Burr'k is an alien struggling to understand the human holidays, among other things. Whether or not he realizes it, his world has been turned upside down just as much as these people struggling to survive a "bugpocalyse", but sometimes life really is what you make of it, and how you choose to react.
Holly is determined to give the kids in their community a joyous and festive Christmas. With everything else that has been taken away from them, a day to be happy, to gather with friends as a community, to open thoughtful gifts doesn't sound like too much to ask for, even if the Universe is conspiring against her holiday cheer.
This done in one kindle unlimited quick read captures what makes the holidays so special, particularly for kids. The gifts symbolize many things, not least of all that someone sees you, recognizes and appreciates you, and wants to share a moment of joy with you, even when distance may separate you.
December 14, 2025
This is a fun sci-fi Christmas novella. It’s part of the Xarc’n Warriors series but can be read as a standalone.
Human FMC Holly is trying to plan Christmas for the settlement, but when raiders steal their Christmas supplies in a Grinchy fashion, she and MMC alien hunter Burr’k have to go on a supply run for more toys. Of course, there’s only one bed on the shuttle, and they have to cuddle… you know, for warmth.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick, easy read full of Christmas cheer and a classic grumpy/sunshine dynamic, set in a post-apocalyptic settling. There was even some solid plot, action and world-building mixed in between all the cute, cozy and spicy parts.
Overall, this was a fun holiday read. It’s the only book in the series that I’ve read so far, and now I guess I’ll have to go back and start at the beginning, because I need more Xarc’n Warriors.
Spice 4/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Writing: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 4.5/5
Human FMC Holly is trying to plan Christmas for the settlement, but when raiders steal their Christmas supplies in a Grinchy fashion, she and MMC alien hunter Burr’k have to go on a supply run for more toys. Of course, there’s only one bed on the shuttle, and they have to cuddle… you know, for warmth.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick, easy read full of Christmas cheer and a classic grumpy/sunshine dynamic, set in a post-apocalyptic settling. There was even some solid plot, action and world-building mixed in between all the cute, cozy and spicy parts.
Overall, this was a fun holiday read. It’s the only book in the series that I’ve read so far, and now I guess I’ll have to go back and start at the beginning, because I need more Xarc’n Warriors.
Spice 4/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Writing: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 4.5/5
December 11, 2025
This installment in the Xarc'n Warrior romance series takes Christmas shopping to a whole new level. Instead of last-minute crowds and long queues, the characters are trying to track down Christmas presents while navigating a world full of lurking monsters — and honestly, if you’ve ever gone shopping the day before Christmas, the comparison feels surprisingly accurate.
The story blends the series’ signature paranormal edge with a light festive touch, making it a fun and seasonally fitting read. It’s fast, entertaining, and gives the familiar holiday hustle a delightfully dangerous twist.
All in all, it’s an interesting and enjoyable festive addition to the series — perfect for readers who like their Christmas romances with claws, chaos, and charm.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story blends the series’ signature paranormal edge with a light festive touch, making it a fun and seasonally fitting read. It’s fast, entertaining, and gives the familiar holiday hustle a delightfully dangerous twist.
All in all, it’s an interesting and enjoyable festive addition to the series — perfect for readers who like their Christmas romances with claws, chaos, and charm.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 30, 2025
This story is a great addition to the Xarc'n warrior series and is a Christmas holiday adventure. While surviving the bugopocolyps, the Xarc'n warriros and humans are gearing up to make this Christmas the best one since the bugs arrived, unfortunatly that is all in jeopardy after an attack.
Holly makes it her mission to save Christmas and Burr'k is the warrior assigned to help her. They could not be more different in attitude, but the more time they spend together, they begin to empathize with each other.
One of my favorite moments is when the ship asks to see the picture taken of it and Burr'k.
I loved their adventure and how they both needed to overcome their doubt to make things work. Spending time together is not just enough, they need to choose each other too.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Holly makes it her mission to save Christmas and Burr'k is the warrior assigned to help her. They could not be more different in attitude, but the more time they spend together, they begin to empathize with each other.
One of my favorite moments is when the ship asks to see the picture taken of it and Burr'k.
I loved their adventure and how they both needed to overcome their doubt to make things work. Spending time together is not just enough, they need to choose each other too.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 27, 2025
Great addition to the series!
Quick fun read. Grumpy Warrior vs Sunshine attitude. Burr’k and Holly are complete opposites, which makes the story so fun. They have to forage for Christmas gifts to save Christmas for the children in New Franklin, all while fighting through snow/Ice storms and the scourge. I love seeing a glimpse of how things are working out in New Franklin.
I’m really hoping Ms. Lee expands to other Settlements like she did into the Mountains. I’m really curious about how other cities a fairing in the bugpocolypse. I really enjoyed reading about California in the last book and hope she expands to that area of the bugpocolypse in future books.
~~ ARC provided for honest review ~~~
Quick fun read. Grumpy Warrior vs Sunshine attitude. Burr’k and Holly are complete opposites, which makes the story so fun. They have to forage for Christmas gifts to save Christmas for the children in New Franklin, all while fighting through snow/Ice storms and the scourge. I love seeing a glimpse of how things are working out in New Franklin.
I’m really hoping Ms. Lee expands to other Settlements like she did into the Mountains. I’m really curious about how other cities a fairing in the bugpocolypse. I really enjoyed reading about California in the last book and hope she expands to that area of the bugpocolypse in future books.
~~ ARC provided for honest review ~~~
December 1, 2025
Holly and the Hunter is a quick, fun read that I couldn't put down. The dynamic between Holly and the grumpy warrior, Burr'k, is very entertaining. He can't help but be grumpy and is adorably awkward around Holly and her sunshine and warmth.
The plot of fighting through snow, ice, and the Scourge to save Christmas for the children of New Franklin is pure holiday fun. I loved how she grew to understand where his grumpiness was coming from and how his icy demeanor melted for her.
The story is a fantastic, action-packed, and sweet holiday romance. Perfect for fans of sci-fi romance and the Xarc'n Warriors series looking for some seasonal cheer with a dose of spice!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The plot of fighting through snow, ice, and the Scourge to save Christmas for the children of New Franklin is pure holiday fun. I loved how she grew to understand where his grumpiness was coming from and how his icy demeanor melted for her.
The story is a fantastic, action-packed, and sweet holiday romance. Perfect for fans of sci-fi romance and the Xarc'n Warriors series looking for some seasonal cheer with a dose of spice!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 3, 2025
I thought this was really fun. It was really cute and a perfect little hit of hopeful spirit during what for me can be a hard time with winter and busy holidays.
It had all the good story things even though it was only novella length. Plenty of drama and interesting characters with well crafted backgrounds and personalities. They didn't magically fix each other they still needed to communicate (maybe with a lot of grumpy harrumphing). And I love the whole 'what is the point of a post apocalyptic Christmas' storyline.
I do really want to know if the raiders knew what they were stealing and are secret grinches (their getaway vehicle did a good Max impression) or are going to be really disappointed when they get home.
It had all the good story things even though it was only novella length. Plenty of drama and interesting characters with well crafted backgrounds and personalities. They didn't magically fix each other they still needed to communicate (maybe with a lot of grumpy harrumphing). And I love the whole 'what is the point of a post apocalyptic Christmas' storyline.
I do really want to know if the raiders knew what they were stealing and are secret grinches (their getaway vehicle did a good Max impression) or are going to be really disappointed when they get home.
December 3, 2025
Oh no they didn’t! MFC Holly has prepared for a wonderful New Franklin Christmas when raiders attack and take the container with all the holiday decorations, and children’s presents.
With the help of assigned guide and protector grumpy Xarc’n warrior Burr’k they set out to find replacements in time for the holiday a week away.
Burr’k obviously doesn’t want to be going on this mission and Holly becomes just as determined to fill him full of holiday cheer.
Loved this holiday novella which was sweet, spicy, a little dramatic, nicely written, and brought together another human/Xarc’n in a mate bond when their adventure into the scourge infested wilds sparks a surprise neither expected.
HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
With the help of assigned guide and protector grumpy Xarc’n warrior Burr’k they set out to find replacements in time for the holiday a week away.
Burr’k obviously doesn’t want to be going on this mission and Holly becomes just as determined to fill him full of holiday cheer.
Loved this holiday novella which was sweet, spicy, a little dramatic, nicely written, and brought together another human/Xarc’n in a mate bond when their adventure into the scourge infested wilds sparks a surprise neither expected.
HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2025
Loved this Christmas Xarc'n Warrior story that's about Holly and our older warrior Burr'k. Holly's is in charge of running the Christmas festival this year for New Franklin when the colony was attacked by the New Earth Militia. The NEM took the Christmas crates that held the gifts for the children and the decorations. Holly and Burr'k are assigned to retrieve them. Their journey is fraught with danger and discovery as our older Burr'k finds Holly is his possible mate. Do they save Christmas? Loved our characters and their romance story was enjoyable to read in this copy I'd received and volunteer to read and review. PS This has a cute cover, the first drawing among the Xarc'n Warriors series.
December 7, 2025
Holly is co-head of the Christmas Committee for New Franklin. It’s crunch time and all their holiday gifts and decor get taken by the rebels. So she fronts the team to go salvage new stuff. She just needs a hunter to accompany her for safety. She gets the one she has been crushing on Burr’k.
Burr’k wants to get back in action since he is healed and in the action zone. He just needs the lay of the land. On his first day he meets a bubbly female that stops him in his tracks and leaves him speechless in the process. So finding out she needs his help to save Christmas is a plus and a minus. He is not great with words and less with expressing himself. McGrump he is. Until they get in a steamy position and the book take a very hot detour lol.
Burr’k wants to get back in action since he is healed and in the action zone. He just needs the lay of the land. On his first day he meets a bubbly female that stops him in his tracks and leaves him speechless in the process. So finding out she needs his help to save Christmas is a plus and a minus. He is not great with words and less with expressing himself. McGrump he is. Until they get in a steamy position and the book take a very hot detour lol.
December 9, 2025
Holly and Burr’k
I love holiday themed books and alien romance books and this One? It's the perfect mix baby off the two of them. Holly is the most woundefully fun, holiday lover heroine out there and She has to work with Burr'k that is an alien version of scrouge. Not like he hates everyting fun and Holly but he does like te war and pratical things more, he thinks that it's whats more important but we all know that the spirit is also very important and that is what Holly wants to do, to bring Joy and hope to everybody at the settlement. They start to see each others side of the story and to undestand it better. I loved how they developled their feelings and found the best gift ever, Love. Super cute and fun book!
I love holiday themed books and alien romance books and this One? It's the perfect mix baby off the two of them. Holly is the most woundefully fun, holiday lover heroine out there and She has to work with Burr'k that is an alien version of scrouge. Not like he hates everyting fun and Holly but he does like te war and pratical things more, he thinks that it's whats more important but we all know that the spirit is also very important and that is what Holly wants to do, to bring Joy and hope to everybody at the settlement. They start to see each others side of the story and to undestand it better. I loved how they developled their feelings and found the best gift ever, Love. Super cute and fun book!
December 11, 2025
In New Franklin, survivors are ready to give their kids one magical Christmas—until raiders steal every gift and decoration.
Holly won’t let the holiday die. She volunteers to hunt the thieves through the frozen wasteland, and gets stuck with Burr’k: a massive, freshly wounded, terminally grumpy Xarc’n warrior who’d rather fight scourge than play elf.
He growls. She glares. They trek.
But snowstorms force them close, banter turns to trust, and the moment his mating purr kicks in, saving Christmas becomes the least of their problems.
A short, steamy, grumpy-meets-sunshine alien holiday romance where a brooding warrior and a fierce human save the day—and find each other.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Holly won’t let the holiday die. She volunteers to hunt the thieves through the frozen wasteland, and gets stuck with Burr’k: a massive, freshly wounded, terminally grumpy Xarc’n warrior who’d rather fight scourge than play elf.
He growls. She glares. They trek.
But snowstorms force them close, banter turns to trust, and the moment his mating purr kicks in, saving Christmas becomes the least of their problems.
A short, steamy, grumpy-meets-sunshine alien holiday romance where a brooding warrior and a fierce human save the day—and find each other.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2025
This is a fantastic story that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. We are once again, embarking on a journey with the new Franklin Township and the Xarc’n Warriors and their families. This was a great Christmas, story about Holly and the Xarc'n warrior Burr’k. Holly is bright and bubbly and Burr’k is grumpy and not pleasant to be around. As with all the stories in the series, influences to bring about their romance, and eventually recognising that they are meant for each other. The storyline is great and smooth flowing, I loved the characters, which I’m happy to say they have their own HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2025
In my experience, books in series that are only there to celebrate one holiday or another aren’t usually the best. This one however was quite cute. It centres around saving Christmas with a last minute forage for apparel after their stuff is stolen. Holly loves the holidays and does her best to keep hope alive in a desolate world. Burr’k meanwhile has a grumpy streak fuelled by depression so pairing them together for the excursion seems like a bad idea. But in the end they make sense together. I think what I liked about this book was more to do with the underlying maintain hope message that many of us need to remember these days.
December 7, 2025
Both Holly and Burr’k have experienced change and loss. Holly has had more time to adjust to her new reality and has found giving hope is something that gives her purpose and helps her cope. Burr’k's loss is much more recent so he's visibly struggling. And he's struggling while he sees others moving on, making his struggle feel worse.
Getting roped into a more frivolous mission is just the thing he needs - plus in this world he'll still get the danger and fighting in between gathering toys and hearing about odd human ways.
Overall, very cute!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Getting roped into a more frivolous mission is just the thing he needs - plus in this world he'll still get the danger and fighting in between gathering toys and hearing about odd human ways.
Overall, very cute!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 25, 2025
After a month of listening to the Xarc’n series on Audible, my inner voice heard this in Troy and Keira’s voices lol. I saved this book after purchasing it for Christmas Eve, and it did not disappoint. Much shorter than the rest of the series, it still was filled with all the fun, action, and sexy times that I expected. I loved how she figured out that his “grumpiness”was really just him not having a purpose with the downed mothership and that she stared to show him that he still had a purpose, it just might look different on Earth. An all around just a satisfying way to spend Christmas Eve.
December 26, 2025
I feel like maybe my rating would be higher if this wasn’t my first book in this series. Maybe if I was more familiar with this world and its aliens I would like it more. I understand this was meant to be a short novella but it felt so quick and instalove and just inorganic. I just wish the relationship all came about differently. One moment they are looking at each other the next they are making out. I almost got whiplash. I liked the plot of a human and her alien protector as they go forage for Christmas gifts for the kids. It was cute. I may explore the other books in this series at another time. But for what it is, this book wasn’t bad.
November 28, 2025
I’ll be home (in New Franklin) for Christmas 🎄 ❤️
My own personal Christmas gift🎁- back to New Franklin and another hot Xarc’n Warrior on my present list!! Holly is head of the Christmas Committee when their Christmas supplies are stolen. Burr’k is volunteered to help her procure more and their relationship, while a little rocky, is moving and beautiful. Hope springs eternal at New Franklin 🥰 I just love this whole series!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My own personal Christmas gift🎁- back to New Franklin and another hot Xarc’n Warrior on my present list!! Holly is head of the Christmas Committee when their Christmas supplies are stolen. Burr’k is volunteered to help her procure more and their relationship, while a little rocky, is moving and beautiful. Hope springs eternal at New Franklin 🥰 I just love this whole series!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2025
Holly is on a mission to save Christmas for the children in the settlement. She needs to find a way to replace gifts and decorations - Pronto. She is assigned to fly with the new hunter Burr'k to a nearby town to raid their toy store. She had been trying to get the new hunter's attention since he came to the settlement but has had no luck. Will things change now that they are a scavenging mission together? Can she convince the big purple guy to be less grumpy? Maybe. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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