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It's Definitely Not Aliens #1
Stardusted
A slow-burn sci-fi rom-com about secrets, sparks, and a galaxy’s worth of trouble.
It’s definitely not aliens.
At least, Raven Barrister’s pretty sure it isn’t.
Between double shifts, looming exams, and an embarrassingly intense crush on her way-too-attractive bartender coworker, Sky, she doesn’t have time for alien nonsense, anyway.
But everything changes the night she crashes into a UFO. Suddenly there’s a glowing artifact, a robot that isn’t from around here, unexplained lights in the sky…and Raven’s starting to think maybe it is time to put the extra in extraterrestrial.
Marked with strange symbols and haunted by memories no one else has, she doesn’t know what to believe. The only person with answers may be the one guy she’s no longer sure she can Sky.
He’s hiding something. Something big.
Too bad nobody gave her the study guide for cosmic chemistry, galaxy-sized problems, or…you know, what to do when your crush might not be from this planet.
It’s definitely not aliens.
…But what if it is?
For fans of The X-Files and Roswell, Stardusted is the first book in a voicey, high-stakes sci-fi romcom series packed with banter, slow-burn tension, alien tech, and found-family chaos. It’s not a traditional romance since there's no tidy ending yet, but the chemistry’s undeniable and the stardust hasn’t settled!
Buckle up for glowing mysteries, eventual open-door spice, and alien adventures that just keep getting hotter.
It’s definitely not aliens.
At least, Raven Barrister’s pretty sure it isn’t.
Between double shifts, looming exams, and an embarrassingly intense crush on her way-too-attractive bartender coworker, Sky, she doesn’t have time for alien nonsense, anyway.
But everything changes the night she crashes into a UFO. Suddenly there’s a glowing artifact, a robot that isn’t from around here, unexplained lights in the sky…and Raven’s starting to think maybe it is time to put the extra in extraterrestrial.
Marked with strange symbols and haunted by memories no one else has, she doesn’t know what to believe. The only person with answers may be the one guy she’s no longer sure she can Sky.
He’s hiding something. Something big.
Too bad nobody gave her the study guide for cosmic chemistry, galaxy-sized problems, or…you know, what to do when your crush might not be from this planet.
It’s definitely not aliens.
…But what if it is?
For fans of The X-Files and Roswell, Stardusted is the first book in a voicey, high-stakes sci-fi romcom series packed with banter, slow-burn tension, alien tech, and found-family chaos. It’s not a traditional romance since there's no tidy ending yet, but the chemistry’s undeniable and the stardust hasn’t settled!
Buckle up for glowing mysteries, eventual open-door spice, and alien adventures that just keep getting hotter.
374 pages, Paperback
First published October 28, 2025
About the author
Elle DeYesso
2 books37 followersElle DeYesso writes slow burn sci-fi and fantasy romance and has a soft spot for sarcasm, found families, and complicated characters who banter their way through problems.
Her stories blend romance, action, and out-of-this-world adventure.
An avid lover of all things sci-fi and fantasy, Elle lives in the Midwest with her family and is powered by iced coffee and binge-reading. When her nose isn’t buried in a book, she enjoys video games, cooking, hiking, and convincing herself she can keep a house plant alive..
You can find her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, and she absolutely wants to hear from readers.
Her stories blend romance, action, and out-of-this-world adventure.
An avid lover of all things sci-fi and fantasy, Elle lives in the Midwest with her family and is powered by iced coffee and binge-reading. When her nose isn’t buried in a book, she enjoys video games, cooking, hiking, and convincing herself she can keep a house plant alive..
You can find her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, and she absolutely wants to hear from readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
October 17, 2025
Tropes & Themes
* Alien X non-believer
* Broody MMC
* Coworkers
* Forbidden romance
* Multiple alien species
* Protective MMC
* Robots
* Secret crush
* Slow-burn
Raven is just trying to get through her education, while working at a local restaurant to pay her way. Suddenly strange things start happening in her small town that everyone wants to blame on aliens, but Raven doesn’t believe it. Then one night she’s run off the road by a mysterious floating orb of light. And who better to come to the rescue than her hot bartender coworker, Sky, that she has a huge crush on? Before long, Raven is thrown into a confusing sci-fi adventure and Sky just might be the only one with answers. The tension quickly grows between the two as they end up on an epic adventure with intergalactic consequences.
The chapter titles are hilarious, and so is the banter between the two MCs. I really enjoyed reading this story, and I’m so grateful I got to be on the ARC team. However, some of the scene descriptions were confusing and hard to follow. The ending answered several questions while leaving several more left unanswered, perfectly setting the story up for the next book. I highly recommend this read and I’m very excited for the next one to land in our solar system!
🫑
* Alien X non-believer
* Broody MMC
* Coworkers
* Forbidden romance
* Multiple alien species
* Protective MMC
* Robots
* Secret crush
* Slow-burn
Raven is just trying to get through her education, while working at a local restaurant to pay her way. Suddenly strange things start happening in her small town that everyone wants to blame on aliens, but Raven doesn’t believe it. Then one night she’s run off the road by a mysterious floating orb of light. And who better to come to the rescue than her hot bartender coworker, Sky, that she has a huge crush on? Before long, Raven is thrown into a confusing sci-fi adventure and Sky just might be the only one with answers. The tension quickly grows between the two as they end up on an epic adventure with intergalactic consequences.
The chapter titles are hilarious, and so is the banter between the two MCs. I really enjoyed reading this story, and I’m so grateful I got to be on the ARC team. However, some of the scene descriptions were confusing and hard to follow. The ending answered several questions while leaving several more left unanswered, perfectly setting the story up for the next book. I highly recommend this read and I’m very excited for the next one to land in our solar system!
🫑
April 3, 2026
What I was expecting: alien romcom. What I got: a what if aliens are already amongst us and a regular college student ends up in the middle of it all. This story was such a fun ride! The FMC is so delightfully quirky with the best one-liners and thought spirals. The MMC is a mysterious, hot, alien bartender who's doing his best to watch out for her and keep her out of an alien conspiracy. There's lots of action, intrigue, and tension. This is a true slow burn, with sparks flying but nothing more than a kiss in book one and I am dying to see where these two go next.
September 29, 2025
Okay.. I loved this so much 👽 absolutely hilarious!!
Spoiler-free Synopsis: Raven Barrister is keeping her head down as the world around her is abuzz with increasingly-severe symptoms of an intense solar flare and rumors of strange lights in the sky. But whatever, her coworkers and the people online can yap about how "it's aliens!" all they want, she's just trying to get through her waitressing shifts, her college anthro finals, and her massive crush on her hunky coworker, Sky.. plus, she knows, it's definitely not aliens . When she stumbles onto something in her college's anthropology department that she shouldn't have, she gets caught up in conspiracies, Sky, and something a whole lot bigger than she could ever imagine. Raven and Sky must stick together while they figure out how to save her.. and maybe a whole lot more.
I grew up being absolutely smitten with with Max from Roswell and Clark from Smallville, so when I saw that the author said this was shades of Roswell, with a hott alien love interest.. yeah.. I was in. I was lucky enough to beta-read this and I loved every page.
The story itself is fast paced, the plot flows smoothly, definitely has an "un-put-downable" quality to it (seriously I had like 2 nights of "I'll just read one more pag-- oh crap it's 2am." As a reader, you get caught up in Raven's world immediately. The prose is great, quite cleverly written.. The author is a genuine wordsmith and it shows. It's descriptive enough without being too much.. there's an ambience in the page that you can't help but feel, sometimes scary, sometimes comical, and sometimes mysterious. The action pieces are well written and make a clear picture in your head (the antagonists of said action pieces are super original, something quite unique- I especially loved them.)
Raven (Rae) is a wonderful MC. She's clever and quick witted and spunky (without falling into the trap that a lot of "strong female MCs" do - which is just being a snarky bitch-) she's kind, but she isn't a pushover.. tough but she isn't a jerk. She develops well throughout the novel. The reader spends quite a lot of time in her head, which was an outstanding choice by the author, because it gives the book its excellent comical quality. Rae's witty inner thoughts are often hilarious (but again, without being too much, it doesn't reach Marvel levels of quippy.)
Sky is an excellent love interest. He is developed well, as is the relationship between the two of them. They immediately have excellent electric chemistry on the page. It's a great slow-burn. No spice in this novel (that makeout scene though 🥵), but the blurb does say that book 2 will be.. spicy, so be prepared for that. I can't say too much about Sky without getting into spoiler territory, but he's also kind, a bit shy, a lot sexy, and 100% bonafide book boyfriend material.
This is usually the part of the review where I say what I wasn't a fan of... but.. I honestly can't think of anything negative to say about this. This was a perfect rom-com, and laid the groundwork for a really great series, imo. It was a really fun, funny, fast ride of a read from start to finish. It made my 12-year-old obsessed with Roswell self so happy. It also made my 35 year-old obsessed with dark, mysterious male love interests self happy.
Great characters, cinematic action scenes, really good slow burn developing love-story, swoony love interest, unique antagonists, cool world building, wonderful comedic elements.. I don't think I've ever read an actual SciFi Romance before..and if this is what they're like, then I'll certainly be looking for more to read! Including the sequel to this (which better come out fast.. please..😭)
5 out of 5 star(dust)s!
Spoiler-free Synopsis: Raven Barrister is keeping her head down as the world around her is abuzz with increasingly-severe symptoms of an intense solar flare and rumors of strange lights in the sky. But whatever, her coworkers and the people online can yap about how "it's aliens!" all they want, she's just trying to get through her waitressing shifts, her college anthro finals, and her massive crush on her hunky coworker, Sky.. plus, she knows, it's definitely not aliens . When she stumbles onto something in her college's anthropology department that she shouldn't have, she gets caught up in conspiracies, Sky, and something a whole lot bigger than she could ever imagine. Raven and Sky must stick together while they figure out how to save her.. and maybe a whole lot more.
I grew up being absolutely smitten with with Max from Roswell and Clark from Smallville, so when I saw that the author said this was shades of Roswell, with a hott alien love interest.. yeah.. I was in. I was lucky enough to beta-read this and I loved every page.
The story itself is fast paced, the plot flows smoothly, definitely has an "un-put-downable" quality to it (seriously I had like 2 nights of "I'll just read one more pag-- oh crap it's 2am." As a reader, you get caught up in Raven's world immediately. The prose is great, quite cleverly written.. The author is a genuine wordsmith and it shows. It's descriptive enough without being too much.. there's an ambience in the page that you can't help but feel, sometimes scary, sometimes comical, and sometimes mysterious. The action pieces are well written and make a clear picture in your head (the antagonists of said action pieces are super original, something quite unique- I especially loved them.)
Raven (Rae) is a wonderful MC. She's clever and quick witted and spunky (without falling into the trap that a lot of "strong female MCs" do - which is just being a snarky bitch-) she's kind, but she isn't a pushover.. tough but she isn't a jerk. She develops well throughout the novel. The reader spends quite a lot of time in her head, which was an outstanding choice by the author, because it gives the book its excellent comical quality. Rae's witty inner thoughts are often hilarious (but again, without being too much, it doesn't reach Marvel levels of quippy.)
Sky is an excellent love interest. He is developed well, as is the relationship between the two of them. They immediately have excellent electric chemistry on the page. It's a great slow-burn. No spice in this novel (that makeout scene though 🥵), but the blurb does say that book 2 will be.. spicy, so be prepared for that. I can't say too much about Sky without getting into spoiler territory, but he's also kind, a bit shy, a lot sexy, and 100% bonafide book boyfriend material.
This is usually the part of the review where I say what I wasn't a fan of... but.. I honestly can't think of anything negative to say about this. This was a perfect rom-com, and laid the groundwork for a really great series, imo. It was a really fun, funny, fast ride of a read from start to finish. It made my 12-year-old obsessed with Roswell self so happy. It also made my 35 year-old obsessed with dark, mysterious male love interests self happy.
Great characters, cinematic action scenes, really good slow burn developing love-story, swoony love interest, unique antagonists, cool world building, wonderful comedic elements.. I don't think I've ever read an actual SciFi Romance before..and if this is what they're like, then I'll certainly be looking for more to read! Including the sequel to this (which better come out fast.. please..😭)
5 out of 5 star(dust)s!
October 27, 2025
Wow, what an otherworldly (*get it?*) book! The overall writing of this story, the plot design, and the exciting world building are all so well done that I find it hard to believe it's actually a debut novel. Truth be told, this book may be my most favorite sci-fi romance other than Jennifer L. Armentrout's Lux series. The story follows Raven "Rae," a college student who works in a café where she has a major crush on her super hot bartender coworker, Sky, the broody guy who stays professional and polite the whole time both on and off work. Although Rae's convinced that there is absolutely NO alien in reality, after encountering several weird (and heart-gripping, literally) supernatural events, she starts to question herself or rather, her sanity. Thankfully, all the answers she's seeking seem to have the same source: Sky, and I promise it's not her way of trying to single him out and spend more time with him alone. *wink*
As for the romance, oh sweet baby aliens everywhere, the slow-burn is BURRRRNNNIINNNGGG, I'm telling you!! I mean, there are only about two kissing scenes and a whole lot of sexual tension between Sky and Rae, but that's all we get from this book. The romance between them blossoms so frustratingly slowly I can't even BUT miraculously, the sci-fi elements with all the alien talks, odd happenings on campus, and even more potential UFO sightings in the near future, totally blow me away and keep me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire time. In fact, I'm so captivated by them that I don't even notice the slow pace of the romance until I finish devouring the book, which is saying a lot considering how huge a romance reader I am.
In a nutshell, please do yourself a favor and pick this book up! You can thank me later. It's truly well-written and I cannot wait for more swoon-worthy moments between Sky and Rae in the sequel, coming out next February! HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
***Thanks to the author and the Author Agency for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
As for the romance, oh sweet baby aliens everywhere, the slow-burn is BURRRRNNNIINNNGGG, I'm telling you!! I mean, there are only about two kissing scenes and a whole lot of sexual tension between Sky and Rae, but that's all we get from this book. The romance between them blossoms so frustratingly slowly I can't even BUT miraculously, the sci-fi elements with all the alien talks, odd happenings on campus, and even more potential UFO sightings in the near future, totally blow me away and keep me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire time. In fact, I'm so captivated by them that I don't even notice the slow pace of the romance until I finish devouring the book, which is saying a lot considering how huge a romance reader I am.
The pulling sensation was strange, electric, and familiar. Familiar in a way I couldn't name, a mutter skating the edge of memory. Like a voice calling my name in a dream I couldn't quite recall.
In a nutshell, please do yourself a favor and pick this book up! You can thank me later. It's truly well-written and I cannot wait for more swoon-worthy moments between Sky and Rae in the sequel, coming out next February! HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
***Thanks to the author and the Author Agency for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
December 28, 2025
This was a really fun sci-fi romance that leaned into charm, banter, and action in a way that kept me engaged the whole time. The story blends small-town vibes with escalating sci-fi elements, and I loved how the mystery slowly builds while still keeping things light and entertaining.
The main character is easy to root for, and I enjoyed watching her perspective shift as the story unfolds. The romance is a true slow burn, which worked well here it added tension without taking over the plot. The banter and chemistry felt natural, and the action scenes helped keep the pacing moving when things could have slowed down.
While a few sections felt a bit more reflective than necessary, it didn’t pull me out of the story. Overall, this was a cute, enjoyable read with some great action moments and a satisfying blend of romance and sci-fi.
If you’re in the mood for a lighthearted sci-fi romance with humor, mystery, and just enough stakes to keep things interesting, this one is worth checking out.
The main character is easy to root for, and I enjoyed watching her perspective shift as the story unfolds. The romance is a true slow burn, which worked well here it added tension without taking over the plot. The banter and chemistry felt natural, and the action scenes helped keep the pacing moving when things could have slowed down.
While a few sections felt a bit more reflective than necessary, it didn’t pull me out of the story. Overall, this was a cute, enjoyable read with some great action moments and a satisfying blend of romance and sci-fi.
If you’re in the mood for a lighthearted sci-fi romance with humor, mystery, and just enough stakes to keep things interesting, this one is worth checking out.
October 14, 2025
If you’ve ever craved a fun, light-hearted alien invasion with a dash of romance and extraterrestrial activities then this is the book for you! Set in the small town of One Willow, readers get to follow anthropology student Rae through her outer-worldly encounters that may or may not involve a certain charismatic bartender…
The prose is fluid and fun, the characters are quirky and relatable, and I loved the author’s use of self-depreciating humour. The internal dialogue felt a bit long winded at times, but that didn’t take away from the creativity of Elle’s storytelling.
Overall, Stardusted is a great debut with an original plot and lots of moments that will have you laughing out loud.
Congratulations on the release, Elle. And thank you for the trust 💚
The prose is fluid and fun, the characters are quirky and relatable, and I loved the author’s use of self-depreciating humour. The internal dialogue felt a bit long winded at times, but that didn’t take away from the creativity of Elle’s storytelling.
Overall, Stardusted is a great debut with an original plot and lots of moments that will have you laughing out loud.
Congratulations on the release, Elle. And thank you for the trust 💚
January 12, 2026
Just finished Stardusted by Elle DeYesso and I’m hooked! This book gave me all the vibes I loved growing up with The X‑Files and Roswell that mix of mystery, aliens, and slow‑burn tension. Raven and Sky’s chemistry is intense and the banter had me grinning. It starts playful, then pulls you into something bigger and more thrilling, all while keeping that rom‑com charm. Can’t wait to find out what happens in book 2 .
January 10, 2026
Omg!! I loved this book!! I couldn’t put it down till I finished it. Elle did an amazing job drawing you in from start to finish. The chapter titles were absolutely perfect. I loved them.
Raven(Rae) the FMC in the book is a college student. Working at a restaurant to pay for college. She has a huge crush on the bartender. Rae is a non-believer. Some strange glowing orb runs her off the road and her co-worker Sky almost runs her over in the middle of the road he takes her home cause her car died. Rae goes to talk to one of her professors one day and gets more than she expects. Sky the mysteriously charming MMC in the book is the bartender and an undercover Alien.
The character growth for both Rae and Sky was amazing. The banter between Rae and Sky was just the right amount. The chapter titles were perfect. This is a slow-burn. I can’t wait for the next book.
Raven(Rae) the FMC in the book is a college student. Working at a restaurant to pay for college. She has a huge crush on the bartender. Rae is a non-believer. Some strange glowing orb runs her off the road and her co-worker Sky almost runs her over in the middle of the road he takes her home cause her car died. Rae goes to talk to one of her professors one day and gets more than she expects. Sky the mysteriously charming MMC in the book is the bartender and an undercover Alien.
The character growth for both Rae and Sky was amazing. The banter between Rae and Sky was just the right amount. The chapter titles were perfect. This is a slow-burn. I can’t wait for the next book.
January 11, 2026
(4.25⭐️)
this was an absolutely brilliant mix of romance, sci-fi, and hilarity!! i had so much fun reading this entire thing. raven and sky had me actually grinning to myself. chef’s kiss
this was an absolutely brilliant mix of romance, sci-fi, and hilarity!! i had so much fun reading this entire thing. raven and sky had me actually grinning to myself. chef’s kiss
October 28, 2025
Thank you to Elle DeYesso and the Author Agency for this ARC!
This is book one in her It’s Definitely (not) Aliens series. I enjoyed this book immensely! While the story focuses on aliens and invasions, it felt grounded the entire time, always staying very close to reality without ever feeling too outlandish. The world felt very believable, almost lived in, not into too much backstory or scientific jargon which often dissuades me from reading sci-fi.
I loved the way Rae and Sky's relationship developed over the course of the book. By the end they really felt like partners in crime, going from strangers to allies as the book progresses. There was a clear protectiveness from Sky and it shows throughout the book. He gives her the space to process while also helping her through this new unknown world that she had been dropped into.
I CAN NOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK! I am so curious to see what happens next! If you enjoy sci-fi books that read like all those 2000s rom-coms, definitely check this book out! You will not regret it!!
This is book one in her It’s Definitely (not) Aliens series. I enjoyed this book immensely! While the story focuses on aliens and invasions, it felt grounded the entire time, always staying very close to reality without ever feeling too outlandish. The world felt very believable, almost lived in, not into too much backstory or scientific jargon which often dissuades me from reading sci-fi.
I loved the way Rae and Sky's relationship developed over the course of the book. By the end they really felt like partners in crime, going from strangers to allies as the book progresses. There was a clear protectiveness from Sky and it shows throughout the book. He gives her the space to process while also helping her through this new unknown world that she had been dropped into.
I CAN NOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK! I am so curious to see what happens next! If you enjoy sci-fi books that read like all those 2000s rom-coms, definitely check this book out! You will not regret it!!
January 21, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
Stardusted by Elle Deyesso
Let me start by saying this was my first-ever sci-fi romcom… and WOW, it did not disappoint.
I laughed. I swooned. I stayed up thinking about it.
The humor was sharp, the romance was chef’s kiss, and the sci-fi elements were fun without being overwhelming—perfect for someone easing into the genre. The banter had me smiling like an idiot, and the story flowed in a way that kept me completely hooked.
And SKY???
That is my hero. Period.
Rae is lucky I’m letting her borrow him because the grip this man had on me was unreal. Protective, charming, and absolutely unforgettable—he alone deserves five stars.
This book was witty, romantic, heartfelt, and surprisingly addictive. If you’re hesitant about sci-fi but love romance and humor, Stardusted is the perfect place to start.
✨ I came curious. I left obsessed.
Stardusted by Elle Deyesso
Let me start by saying this was my first-ever sci-fi romcom… and WOW, it did not disappoint.
I laughed. I swooned. I stayed up thinking about it.
The humor was sharp, the romance was chef’s kiss, and the sci-fi elements were fun without being overwhelming—perfect for someone easing into the genre. The banter had me smiling like an idiot, and the story flowed in a way that kept me completely hooked.
And SKY???
That is my hero. Period.
Rae is lucky I’m letting her borrow him because the grip this man had on me was unreal. Protective, charming, and absolutely unforgettable—he alone deserves five stars.
This book was witty, romantic, heartfelt, and surprisingly addictive. If you’re hesitant about sci-fi but love romance and humor, Stardusted is the perfect place to start.
✨ I came curious. I left obsessed.
October 18, 2025
Disclaimer: I received this book free as an ARC to read and review honestly.
The only thing I don’t like about this book, is I have to wait until next year for book two.
This book was so good. It was my first Sci-fi Romcom, my first real sci-fi book in general and I need more. The book held my attention throughout every page. Raven and Sky’s banter is amazing. Even ravens sarcastic sassy thoughts were hilarious. The way Elle describes the different aliens you can see them in your head. I felt like I was in One Willow experiencing all of this chaos with Raven and Sky.
i CANNOT wait for book two. I want to meet Bast, read about more crazy alien battles and of course see what sparks between Raven and Sky.
The only thing I don’t like about this book, is I have to wait until next year for book two.
This book was so good. It was my first Sci-fi Romcom, my first real sci-fi book in general and I need more. The book held my attention throughout every page. Raven and Sky’s banter is amazing. Even ravens sarcastic sassy thoughts were hilarious. The way Elle describes the different aliens you can see them in your head. I felt like I was in One Willow experiencing all of this chaos with Raven and Sky.
i CANNOT wait for book two. I want to meet Bast, read about more crazy alien battles and of course see what sparks between Raven and Sky.
January 11, 2026
As someone who does not usually read Sci-Fi X Romance books, I loved it!
The FMC Raven is relatable and so when aliens become too real, my heart was aching for her. However with the MMC of Sky (a new favourite book boyfriend) his protectiveness was everything as he tried to keep her safe. Elle’s writing was engaging and had me hooked from the first chapter- she even saved me from going into another reading slump! I am obsessed with Elle and Sky and I cannot wait to read about the next part of their journey in Starfallen coming out soon.
If you need a new comfort author or are falling into a reading slump like I was, Stardusted is the perfect book for you!
The FMC Raven is relatable and so when aliens become too real, my heart was aching for her. However with the MMC of Sky (a new favourite book boyfriend) his protectiveness was everything as he tried to keep her safe. Elle’s writing was engaging and had me hooked from the first chapter- she even saved me from going into another reading slump! I am obsessed with Elle and Sky and I cannot wait to read about the next part of their journey in Starfallen coming out soon.
If you need a new comfort author or are falling into a reading slump like I was, Stardusted is the perfect book for you!
January 18, 2026
Elle has really brought her series, It's Definitely Not Aliens, to life in the first book, Stardusted. I absolutely adored this story, with its complex characters and fast-paced plot. The romance is a slow-burn, and it's bound to pop off in book two - I can feel it! The side characters all have their own quirks and personalities. I have to say, I truly enjoy Kelly. At first, you might think she's an airhead chasing conspiracy theories, but you get to see that develop a little further as the plot thickens.
Overall, I would highly recommend this story to someone looking for a lot of sci-fi, a lot of action, and a lot of agonizing pining!
Overall, I would highly recommend this story to someone looking for a lot of sci-fi, a lot of action, and a lot of agonizing pining!
January 15, 2026
Aliens, love, and college—what could possibly go wrong? The author did an excellent job of making this book stand out. She crafted well-developed characters that I genuinely enjoyed. The book as a whole felt relatable.
I did like the book! However, I didn’t give it 4 stars because it was a bit slow at times. Some sections dragged on.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
I did like the book! However, I didn’t give it 4 stars because it was a bit slow at times. Some sections dragged on.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
January 16, 2026
Stardusted was a wild ride! I wasn't sure what to expect but it totally transported me, like I was binge watching a fave show from back in the day. Sky's got that whole protective vibe, and I can't shake the feeling he reminds me of someone... just gotta figure out who....it's right on the tip of my tongue. but for my first alien novel I have to say I enjoyed it.
January 12, 2026
I am obsessed! This was so cute. I was totally hooked from the first page, I really enjoyed the pacing. I love that this seems to be a true slow burn! One of my favorite things is having to wait for future books for spicy scenes. Book 2 can’t come soon enough!
March 23, 2026
Wow! I saw one of the revelations coming, but this book had so many twists and turns. I absolutely loved the romance and I hope it will pick up in book two. Such a sweet book!
September 26, 2025
I was blessed to ARC read for Elle on her debut novel and I'm so happy I was!
This book is incredibly fun, intriguing, full of energy and just a touch of spice.
Am in obsessed with the hot alien bartender? Definitely! Am I impressed with the quirky heroine? Most definitely yes!
Elle brings all the things we look for in a great book to the table. Do I need book 2??? Yes please Elle, because I most definitely need to meet the next hot alien.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶 mild
This book is incredibly fun, intriguing, full of energy and just a touch of spice.
Am in obsessed with the hot alien bartender? Definitely! Am I impressed with the quirky heroine? Most definitely yes!
Elle brings all the things we look for in a great book to the table. Do I need book 2??? Yes please Elle, because I most definitely need to meet the next hot alien.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶 mild
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Stardusted was such an amazing and intense read! I loved watching Raven’s confidence grow throughout the story, and learning more about the mysterious bartender who kept surprising me in the best ways.
This book delivered so many of my favorite tropes, forced proximity, a morally gray MMC, and a beautifully done slow-burn romance. I’m especially hoping we get a one bed trope in book two 🫣 because the tension is already perfection.
This book had a perfect blend of action, suspense, mystery, and romance! And of course, aliens 👽
For a debut, Elle has absolutely knocked it out of the park. As the first installment in the It’s Definitely Not Aliens series, this feels like the beginning of something really special, and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next.
Stardusted was such an amazing and intense read! I loved watching Raven’s confidence grow throughout the story, and learning more about the mysterious bartender who kept surprising me in the best ways.
This book delivered so many of my favorite tropes, forced proximity, a morally gray MMC, and a beautifully done slow-burn romance. I’m especially hoping we get a one bed trope in book two 🫣 because the tension is already perfection.
This book had a perfect blend of action, suspense, mystery, and romance! And of course, aliens 👽
For a debut, Elle has absolutely knocked it out of the park. As the first installment in the It’s Definitely Not Aliens series, this feels like the beginning of something really special, and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next.
October 28, 2025
**ARC READ***
This story pulled me in on the very first page. To say I'm obsessed is an understatement. The vibe is definitely a moody small town mixed with X-files, which I mean come on so amazing! The author really made it feel like you were right there with Raven and Sky. In all honesty I felt very pulled to Raven's character/story and cannot wait to follow her on her journey into the next book. I also wrote down several quotable lines from this book that just flat out made me laugh and/or swoon. Definitely a book you won't want to put down!
This story pulled me in on the very first page. To say I'm obsessed is an understatement. The vibe is definitely a moody small town mixed with X-files, which I mean come on so amazing! The author really made it feel like you were right there with Raven and Sky. In all honesty I felt very pulled to Raven's character/story and cannot wait to follow her on her journey into the next book. I also wrote down several quotable lines from this book that just flat out made me laugh and/or swoon. Definitely a book you won't want to put down!
October 28, 2025
Alien x nonbeliever
Broody MMC
Coworkers
Robots
Secret crush
Forbidden romance
Multiple alien species
Protective MMC
Slow burn
Found family chaos
Open door spice
Raven is just trying to get through her shift at a restaurant to pay her way and get her education as an anthropology student. But things start to occur in their small town and everyone in town jumps to aliens. It seems Rae doesn’t believe. Then one night she's run off the road by a mysterious floating orb of light. And who better to come to the rescue than her hot bartender coworker, Sky, that she has a huge crush on?
Such a fun, light-hearted alien invasion with a touch of romance and extraterrestrial activities!
the characters are quirky and relatable, and I loved the humour. And the banter lol
Overall, Stardusted is a great debut and I enjoyed this read! I can’t wait for the next book!
Quotes:
She says nothing at all, but simply stares upward into the dark sky and watches, with sad eyes, the slow dance of the infinite stars.
A philosopher once asked, "Are we human because we gaze at the stars, or do we gaze at them because we are human?" Pointless, really..."Do the stars gaze back?" Now, that's a question.
You have to believe. Otherwise, it will never happen.
Every lover is, in his heart, a madman, and, in his head, a minstrel.
Adventures are all very well in their place, but there's a lot to be said for regular meals and freedom from pain.
He stared up at the stars: and it seemed to him then that they were dancers, stately and graceful, performing a dance almost infinite in its complexity. He imagined he could see the very faces of the stars; pale, they were, and smiling gently, as if they had spent so much time above the world, watching the scrambling and the joy and the pain of the people below them, that they could not help being amused every time another little human believed itself the center of its world, as each of us does.
You know when I said I knew little about love? That wasn't true. I know a lot about love. I've seen it, centuries and centuries of it, and it was the only thing that made watching your world bearable. All those wars. Pain, lies, hate... It made me want to turn away and never look down again. But when I see the way that mankind loves... You could search to the furthest reaches of the universe and never find anything more beautiful. So yes, I know that love is unconditional. But I also know that it can be unpredictable, unexpected, uncontrollable, unbearable and strangely easy to mistake for loathing, and... What I'm trying to say, Tristan is... I think I love you. Is this love, Tristan? I never imagined I'd know it for myself. My heart... It feels like my chest can barely contain it. Like it's trying to escape because it doesn't belong to me any more. It belongs to you. And if you wanted it, I'd wish for nothing in exchange - no gifts. No goods. No demonstrations of devotion. Nothing but knowing you loved me too. Just your heart, in exchange for mine.
There was once a young man who wished to gain his Heart’s Desire.
What do stars do? They shine
"Could it be that the heart that you seek is no longer my own? I have given my heart to another."…..
"Nonetheless, he has my heart. I hope your sisters will not be too hard on you, when you return to them without it.
For fans of The X-Files and Roswell, Stardusted is the first book in a voicey, high-stakes sci-fi romcom series packed with banter, slow-burn tension, alien tech, and found-family chaos. It's not a traditional romance since there's no tidy ending yet, but the chemistry's undeniable and the stardust hasn't settled! Buckle up for glowing mysteries, eventual open-door spice, and alien adventures that just keep getting hotter.
Broody MMC
Coworkers
Robots
Secret crush
Forbidden romance
Multiple alien species
Protective MMC
Slow burn
Found family chaos
Open door spice
Raven is just trying to get through her shift at a restaurant to pay her way and get her education as an anthropology student. But things start to occur in their small town and everyone in town jumps to aliens. It seems Rae doesn’t believe. Then one night she's run off the road by a mysterious floating orb of light. And who better to come to the rescue than her hot bartender coworker, Sky, that she has a huge crush on?
Such a fun, light-hearted alien invasion with a touch of romance and extraterrestrial activities!
the characters are quirky and relatable, and I loved the humour. And the banter lol
Overall, Stardusted is a great debut and I enjoyed this read! I can’t wait for the next book!
Quotes:
She says nothing at all, but simply stares upward into the dark sky and watches, with sad eyes, the slow dance of the infinite stars.
A philosopher once asked, "Are we human because we gaze at the stars, or do we gaze at them because we are human?" Pointless, really..."Do the stars gaze back?" Now, that's a question.
You have to believe. Otherwise, it will never happen.
Every lover is, in his heart, a madman, and, in his head, a minstrel.
Adventures are all very well in their place, but there's a lot to be said for regular meals and freedom from pain.
He stared up at the stars: and it seemed to him then that they were dancers, stately and graceful, performing a dance almost infinite in its complexity. He imagined he could see the very faces of the stars; pale, they were, and smiling gently, as if they had spent so much time above the world, watching the scrambling and the joy and the pain of the people below them, that they could not help being amused every time another little human believed itself the center of its world, as each of us does.
You know when I said I knew little about love? That wasn't true. I know a lot about love. I've seen it, centuries and centuries of it, and it was the only thing that made watching your world bearable. All those wars. Pain, lies, hate... It made me want to turn away and never look down again. But when I see the way that mankind loves... You could search to the furthest reaches of the universe and never find anything more beautiful. So yes, I know that love is unconditional. But I also know that it can be unpredictable, unexpected, uncontrollable, unbearable and strangely easy to mistake for loathing, and... What I'm trying to say, Tristan is... I think I love you. Is this love, Tristan? I never imagined I'd know it for myself. My heart... It feels like my chest can barely contain it. Like it's trying to escape because it doesn't belong to me any more. It belongs to you. And if you wanted it, I'd wish for nothing in exchange - no gifts. No goods. No demonstrations of devotion. Nothing but knowing you loved me too. Just your heart, in exchange for mine.
There was once a young man who wished to gain his Heart’s Desire.
What do stars do? They shine
"Could it be that the heart that you seek is no longer my own? I have given my heart to another."…..
"Nonetheless, he has my heart. I hope your sisters will not be too hard on you, when you return to them without it.
For fans of The X-Files and Roswell, Stardusted is the first book in a voicey, high-stakes sci-fi romcom series packed with banter, slow-burn tension, alien tech, and found-family chaos. It's not a traditional romance since there's no tidy ending yet, but the chemistry's undeniable and the stardust hasn't settled! Buckle up for glowing mysteries, eventual open-door spice, and alien adventures that just keep getting hotter.
January 31, 2026
As this was my first sci-fi romance, I was a little skeptical about whether or not I would enjoy it. However, it was out of this world! (a little too “on the nose”? 😂) Elle De’Yesso has done an absolutely fantastic job with this book! It really does tick all of the right boxes for me, making it an engaging read from start to finish. The world-building is intricate and imaginative, the characters are incredibly relatable, and the chemistry between them adds an intense layer to the narrative, creating a yearning that is truly palpable.
I absolutely loved how well written and descriptive the whole story was. It truly felt like I was seeing the events unfold as I read. I feel that the plot was so intricately written to the extent that I felt like the events were occuring in real time. I also enjoyed the use of sci-fi themed language. It was enough to make it obvious it was a sci-fi without being overly complicated to the point of needing Google while reading!
I also found the chapter titles hilarious. They made me want to keep reading well past my bedtime, as each title seemed to promise a new adventure or a delightfully hilarious twist that I simply couldn’t resist. The clever wordplay and wit woven into each chapter title ignited my curiosity, compelling me to turn the pages late into the night. However, the sleep deprivation was 100% worth it, as the stories unfolded in a way that kept me thoroughly entertained, leaving me with a mix of laughter and intrigue that lingered long after I finally put the book down.
I think Raven, the FMC was the perfect level of dorky and sassy. Her reactions to the events around her were so relatable, especially her utter awkwardness around Sky. It was refreshing to have a FMC that didn’t ooze confidence within herself or the situation she found herself in. Her inner monologue was hilarious and made me laugh out loud so many times!
Sky, our MMC, was also perfectly imperfect. Although he came across as quite calm throughout the start of the book, it becomes apparent as the story progresses that he can also lose his composure. Especially when it comes to our FMC. It’s obvious that he cares for Raven and wants to protect her, but he also has a overriding need to protect his Creed.
The slow burn romance and yearning was impeccable. You really get a sense of the longing that is felt on both sides throughout the story. The stolen glances, burning faces and that god damned kiss was swoon worthy… I practically squealed!
If you’re a fan of evocative prose, riotous humour, and yearning that is sublime.. Then Stardusted really needs to be added to your TBR! I absolutely loved it, and cannot wait to see what’s in store for Raven and Sky in Starfalling.
Watch this space for my review of Sarfalling, available on Kindle and paperback on the 12th February 2026!
I absolutely loved how well written and descriptive the whole story was. It truly felt like I was seeing the events unfold as I read. I feel that the plot was so intricately written to the extent that I felt like the events were occuring in real time. I also enjoyed the use of sci-fi themed language. It was enough to make it obvious it was a sci-fi without being overly complicated to the point of needing Google while reading!
I also found the chapter titles hilarious. They made me want to keep reading well past my bedtime, as each title seemed to promise a new adventure or a delightfully hilarious twist that I simply couldn’t resist. The clever wordplay and wit woven into each chapter title ignited my curiosity, compelling me to turn the pages late into the night. However, the sleep deprivation was 100% worth it, as the stories unfolded in a way that kept me thoroughly entertained, leaving me with a mix of laughter and intrigue that lingered long after I finally put the book down.
I think Raven, the FMC was the perfect level of dorky and sassy. Her reactions to the events around her were so relatable, especially her utter awkwardness around Sky. It was refreshing to have a FMC that didn’t ooze confidence within herself or the situation she found herself in. Her inner monologue was hilarious and made me laugh out loud so many times!
Sky, our MMC, was also perfectly imperfect. Although he came across as quite calm throughout the start of the book, it becomes apparent as the story progresses that he can also lose his composure. Especially when it comes to our FMC. It’s obvious that he cares for Raven and wants to protect her, but he also has a overriding need to protect his Creed.
The slow burn romance and yearning was impeccable. You really get a sense of the longing that is felt on both sides throughout the story. The stolen glances, burning faces and that god damned kiss was swoon worthy… I practically squealed!
If you’re a fan of evocative prose, riotous humour, and yearning that is sublime.. Then Stardusted really needs to be added to your TBR! I absolutely loved it, and cannot wait to see what’s in store for Raven and Sky in Starfalling.
Watch this space for my review of Sarfalling, available on Kindle and paperback on the 12th February 2026!
November 8, 2025
Girls evening plans are severely ruined by an impromptu alien invasion.
✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧
Plot
The story follows Raven, a perfectly normal girl living a perfectly normal life as a waitress come student. Her life is quite literally turned upside down by a teenie weenie alien invasion. Thankfully, her handsome barman who definitely isn't an alien himself comes to her rescue and they take it from there...
I really loved the premise of this story, especially the mix of two very different alien species and how they themselves are kinda connected. The little twists, especially in Sky's history were well crafted and definitely caught me by surprise.
Characters
FMC
I liked Raven - there's nothing that special about her and that is definitely not a bad thing. She is however a smart cookie and a brave one at that; the later she demonstrates time and again, especially towards the end of the story when she is weeeelll out of her depth.
MMC
Sky is a real sweetie. I really enjoyed learning about his background, especially as things unravelled towards the end. I also liked how caring he was, especially towards Raven.
The Rest
I didn't care for Raven's colleagues - they were pretty annoying most of the time, and I'm not sure if they were supposed to me. Maybe?
The Chemistry
Raven and Sky have great chemistry - what starts as a physical attraction builds as they keep getting forced together. The banter between them is excellent and I thoroughly enjoyed the slow burn.
The Good
My favourite part of the entire story is the creativity around these two strikingly different aliens. Both were so well crafted and I loved all the tit bits we got as the story progressed, especially Sky's people.
The Bad
I did want even more physical romance, but looks like I'm gonna have to wait patiently for the next book.
The Ugly
Nothing ugly.
The Wrap Up
I would like the next one please, just to make sure it's definitely not aliens.
✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧
Others in the Series
It's' Definitely Not Aliens - Book Two: A scifi romcom
Find Me
Instagram
Storygraph
✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧
Plot
The story follows Raven, a perfectly normal girl living a perfectly normal life as a waitress come student. Her life is quite literally turned upside down by a teenie weenie alien invasion. Thankfully, her handsome barman who definitely isn't an alien himself comes to her rescue and they take it from there...
I really loved the premise of this story, especially the mix of two very different alien species and how they themselves are kinda connected. The little twists, especially in Sky's history were well crafted and definitely caught me by surprise.
Characters
FMC
I liked Raven - there's nothing that special about her and that is definitely not a bad thing. She is however a smart cookie and a brave one at that; the later she demonstrates time and again, especially towards the end of the story when she is weeeelll out of her depth.
MMC
Sky is a real sweetie. I really enjoyed learning about his background, especially as things unravelled towards the end. I also liked how caring he was, especially towards Raven.
The Rest
I didn't care for Raven's colleagues - they were pretty annoying most of the time, and I'm not sure if they were supposed to me. Maybe?
The Chemistry
Raven and Sky have great chemistry - what starts as a physical attraction builds as they keep getting forced together. The banter between them is excellent and I thoroughly enjoyed the slow burn.
The Good
My favourite part of the entire story is the creativity around these two strikingly different aliens. Both were so well crafted and I loved all the tit bits we got as the story progressed, especially Sky's people.
The Bad
I did want even more physical romance, but looks like I'm gonna have to wait patiently for the next book.
The Ugly
Nothing ugly.
The Wrap Up
I would like the next one please, just to make sure it's definitely not aliens.
✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧
Others in the Series
It's' Definitely Not Aliens - Book Two: A scifi romcom
Find Me
Storygraph
November 2, 2025
This book got me. Truly. I didn’t just read it, I inhaled it like a gremlin crouched over a treasure.
Raven (Rae) stole my heart from page one. She is an overthinking, anxious little tornado of intrusive thoughts and I have never felt so seen. Her inner monologue had me laughing out loud more times than I could count. She is peak relatable millennial brain and I can already feel the groundwork for a phenomenal character arc ahead. It's brimming with strong character character growth with a fit of giggles from her witty expressions.
And then there’s Sky. Ugh. The perfect amount of charming, flawed, and mysterious. He’s one of those male leads who feels real enough to date… which is exactly why I’m suspicious of him. If he turns out to be too good to be true, I’m not emotionally prepared.
I wish there were 400 more pages, because I devoured this story way too fast. I wanted to stay in this world longer just wrapped up in Rae’s head, unraveling whatever secrets are bubbling under the surface, and basking in every moment of banter, tension, and emotional chaos.
the sci-fi reveal? Chef’s kiss. It was done so smoothly that I felt the genre shift happening in my bones. You can tell this world is about to expand in a big way, and I am so ready to be launched deeper into it in Book Two.
Also, a standing ovation for the chapter subtitles. Truly. The humor, the charm, the tiny micro-bursts of joy they delivered before every chapter… I felt spoiled.
As for the romance: this slow burn fed my soul. I live for the delicious, aching tension and this book understood the assignment. Once characters get together too quickly, I will admittedly zone out with the romance, but this? This had me kicking my feet like a teenager. And I can tell we’re being set up for one heck of a payoff in the next installment.
In short: Book Two can’t come fast enough. I’m already refreshing the author’s page like a raccoon at 3AM looking for snacks. Looks like Feb 2026 is when I can snatch up my copy!
Raven (Rae) stole my heart from page one. She is an overthinking, anxious little tornado of intrusive thoughts and I have never felt so seen. Her inner monologue had me laughing out loud more times than I could count. She is peak relatable millennial brain and I can already feel the groundwork for a phenomenal character arc ahead. It's brimming with strong character character growth with a fit of giggles from her witty expressions.
And then there’s Sky. Ugh. The perfect amount of charming, flawed, and mysterious. He’s one of those male leads who feels real enough to date… which is exactly why I’m suspicious of him. If he turns out to be too good to be true, I’m not emotionally prepared.
I wish there were 400 more pages, because I devoured this story way too fast. I wanted to stay in this world longer just wrapped up in Rae’s head, unraveling whatever secrets are bubbling under the surface, and basking in every moment of banter, tension, and emotional chaos.
the sci-fi reveal? Chef’s kiss. It was done so smoothly that I felt the genre shift happening in my bones. You can tell this world is about to expand in a big way, and I am so ready to be launched deeper into it in Book Two.
Also, a standing ovation for the chapter subtitles. Truly. The humor, the charm, the tiny micro-bursts of joy they delivered before every chapter… I felt spoiled.
As for the romance: this slow burn fed my soul. I live for the delicious, aching tension and this book understood the assignment. Once characters get together too quickly, I will admittedly zone out with the romance, but this? This had me kicking my feet like a teenager. And I can tell we’re being set up for one heck of a payoff in the next installment.
In short: Book Two can’t come fast enough. I’m already refreshing the author’s page like a raccoon at 3AM looking for snacks. Looks like Feb 2026 is when I can snatch up my copy!
January 22, 2026
Book Title: Stardusted: A Sci-Fi Romcom (It's Definitely Not Aliens)
Author: Ell DeYesso
Genre: Sci-FI/Rom-Com
Publication Date: Oct 28, 2025
Format Reviewed: Kindle ARC
Overall Rating:
★★★★★
Spice Level:
(Rate 1–5 peppers, where 1 = Mild/No Spice and 5 = Extremely Spicy)
Spice Rating: 🌶️
Summary (No Spoilers):
Imagine what would happen in modern day if an alien lived and blended in with us unknowingly and a skeptical FMC with hilarious internal dialogue crushes hard on her coworker (MMC) while mysterious things happen in the town they live in. FMC contemplates what is fact vs fiction, even more wild things happen (a little suspenseful at times, witty and comical at other times). FMC and MMC characters have the slowwwwest of burns but after certain events occur, they end up facing each other. This story is fast-paced, soo funny, and had me smirking and chuckling at my kindle. Other parts I devoured due to the suspense of some of the scenes. This book crosses all boundaries when it comes to genres, with a sci-fi rom-com twist that is SO refreshing! So if you are tired of the same ol cookie cutter type romance books, this one will definitely get you out of a reading slump! 10/10 recommend!
What I Loved:
- the titles of the chapters had me in stitches!
- FMC internal dialogue is the best!
- Super refreshing plot!
What Could Be Improved:
- I wouldn't change anything!
Spice Breakdown:
This is a slowwww burn! One of my fav tropes!
Who Should Read This Book:
I think because of how this book crosses into several genres, it would honestly appeal to a wide audience!
Favorite Quote: Literally every chapter title in this book is quote worthy!
Final Thoughts:
Perfect book to get out of a reading slump. Funny, witty, loved the easter eggs with references to sci-fi pop culture!
Would I Read More by This Author? YES YES YES!
Author: Ell DeYesso
Genre: Sci-FI/Rom-Com
Publication Date: Oct 28, 2025
Format Reviewed: Kindle ARC
Overall Rating:
★★★★★
Spice Level:
(Rate 1–5 peppers, where 1 = Mild/No Spice and 5 = Extremely Spicy)
Spice Rating: 🌶️
Summary (No Spoilers):
Imagine what would happen in modern day if an alien lived and blended in with us unknowingly and a skeptical FMC with hilarious internal dialogue crushes hard on her coworker (MMC) while mysterious things happen in the town they live in. FMC contemplates what is fact vs fiction, even more wild things happen (a little suspenseful at times, witty and comical at other times). FMC and MMC characters have the slowwwwest of burns but after certain events occur, they end up facing each other. This story is fast-paced, soo funny, and had me smirking and chuckling at my kindle. Other parts I devoured due to the suspense of some of the scenes. This book crosses all boundaries when it comes to genres, with a sci-fi rom-com twist that is SO refreshing! So if you are tired of the same ol cookie cutter type romance books, this one will definitely get you out of a reading slump! 10/10 recommend!
What I Loved:
- the titles of the chapters had me in stitches!
- FMC internal dialogue is the best!
- Super refreshing plot!
What Could Be Improved:
- I wouldn't change anything!
Spice Breakdown:
This is a slowwww burn! One of my fav tropes!
Who Should Read This Book:
I think because of how this book crosses into several genres, it would honestly appeal to a wide audience!
Favorite Quote: Literally every chapter title in this book is quote worthy!
Final Thoughts:
Perfect book to get out of a reading slump. Funny, witty, loved the easter eggs with references to sci-fi pop culture!
Would I Read More by This Author? YES YES YES!
January 9, 2026
Out of this world!
Wow; this is the alien rom-com I never knew I needed. Who says sci-fi has to be serious, stuffy or written by old guys? This narrative is laugh-out-loud funny; the prose well-written; the main characters fully rounded; the plot well-sequenced. For me, the specific sci-fi language was at the right level: enough to belong in this genre but not too much that a layperson could get caught up in confounding physics' terminology.
The protagonist - Raven/Rae - is dorky, quirky, useless around the guy she has been pining over, and has the funniest internal monologues I've read in a long time. It is refreshing to read an FMC who does not have all the answers, is not self-assured, and is relatable around hot guys.
Likewise, Sky is a loveable male counterpart. Considerate, cool, collected and mysterious; he is the right mixture of secretive, protective and guarded with glimmers of emotion and vulnerability thrown in. The development of the connection between these two is realistic and the forced proximity didn't feel overly engineered. The pace of the action and plot sequencing is pitched just right; the development of Rae & Sky's connection is more tentative which is completely plausible. There are bigger issues at hand - on a Universal scale - than a little thing like romance. That being said, the chemistry is there, and so was the action, even if it was temporary (for now).
I loved that Rae's questions mirrored what I'd also want to know; her reactions to the situation and subsequent behaviours again completely believable. I cannot wait to find out more about Sky, his 'people' and how the adventure will unfold.
If you are a fan of extraterrestrial tales, the X-Files, Roswell etc. then Stardusted needs to be added to your TBR!
Wow; this is the alien rom-com I never knew I needed. Who says sci-fi has to be serious, stuffy or written by old guys? This narrative is laugh-out-loud funny; the prose well-written; the main characters fully rounded; the plot well-sequenced. For me, the specific sci-fi language was at the right level: enough to belong in this genre but not too much that a layperson could get caught up in confounding physics' terminology.
The protagonist - Raven/Rae - is dorky, quirky, useless around the guy she has been pining over, and has the funniest internal monologues I've read in a long time. It is refreshing to read an FMC who does not have all the answers, is not self-assured, and is relatable around hot guys.
Likewise, Sky is a loveable male counterpart. Considerate, cool, collected and mysterious; he is the right mixture of secretive, protective and guarded with glimmers of emotion and vulnerability thrown in. The development of the connection between these two is realistic and the forced proximity didn't feel overly engineered. The pace of the action and plot sequencing is pitched just right; the development of Rae & Sky's connection is more tentative which is completely plausible. There are bigger issues at hand - on a Universal scale - than a little thing like romance. That being said, the chemistry is there, and so was the action, even if it was temporary (for now).
I loved that Rae's questions mirrored what I'd also want to know; her reactions to the situation and subsequent behaviours again completely believable. I cannot wait to find out more about Sky, his 'people' and how the adventure will unfold.
If you are a fan of extraterrestrial tales, the X-Files, Roswell etc. then Stardusted needs to be added to your TBR!
January 12, 2026
Raven is skeptical about the conspiracy theories she keeps hearing at work about aliens living among them. She absolutely does not believe in them, she tends to be more logical about things that everything has an explanation.
She also has the biggest crush on her co worker Sky, she can’t help but stare at him, can’t form words properly when he talks to her. To her he is sexy as an enigma.
But what Raven doesn’t know is that Sky has a secret, that might turn her from being skeptic about aliens to believing in them.
👽The truth is out there 👽
When she stumbles across something she shouldn’t have her life will never be normal again. She’s shaken by what happened to her wants to forget it but that’s easier said than done. Everything has changed 🛸
She gets help from Sky who knows a lot more about what is happening to her. He will protect her from danger. When he reveals who he truly is, Raven realises she never really knew him. She should be scared but instead she is curious about him.
She still has a crush on him,he’s still attractive and gorgeous to her and when they finally kiss 🔥 her dreams are coming true. Sky confesses to her that he liked her the moment he saw her.
Whatever lies ahead they are in this together, he will protect her from danger that’s ahead of them. The aliens were coming for her and they aren’t going to stop. Ravens life will never be the same again.
The tension and banter between Raven and Sky I liked the moments when they were chatting and getting to know one another, Sky tries to put Ravens fears at ease. When Raven describes his butt as being engineered for denim had me in stitches 😂 I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book especially the references to X files, Independence Day, Star Trek, Roswell.
She also has the biggest crush on her co worker Sky, she can’t help but stare at him, can’t form words properly when he talks to her. To her he is sexy as an enigma.
But what Raven doesn’t know is that Sky has a secret, that might turn her from being skeptic about aliens to believing in them.
👽The truth is out there 👽
When she stumbles across something she shouldn’t have her life will never be normal again. She’s shaken by what happened to her wants to forget it but that’s easier said than done. Everything has changed 🛸
She gets help from Sky who knows a lot more about what is happening to her. He will protect her from danger. When he reveals who he truly is, Raven realises she never really knew him. She should be scared but instead she is curious about him.
She still has a crush on him,he’s still attractive and gorgeous to her and when they finally kiss 🔥 her dreams are coming true. Sky confesses to her that he liked her the moment he saw her.
Whatever lies ahead they are in this together, he will protect her from danger that’s ahead of them. The aliens were coming for her and they aren’t going to stop. Ravens life will never be the same again.
The tension and banter between Raven and Sky I liked the moments when they were chatting and getting to know one another, Sky tries to put Ravens fears at ease. When Raven describes his butt as being engineered for denim had me in stitches 😂 I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book especially the references to X files, Independence Day, Star Trek, Roswell.
November 13, 2025
This book got me. Truly. I didn’t just read it, I inhaled it like a gremlin crouched over a treasure.
Raven (Rae) stole my heart from page one. She is an overthinking, anxious little tornado of intrusive thoughts and I have never felt so seen. Her inner monologue had me laughing out loud more times than I could count. She is peak relatable millennial brain and I can already feel the groundwork for a phenomenal character arc ahead. It's brimming with strong character character growth with a fit of giggles from her witty expressions.
And then there’s Sky. Ugh. The perfect amount of charming, flawed, and mysterious. He’s one of those male leads who feels real enough to date… which is exactly why I’m suspicious of him. If he turns out to be too good to be true, I’m not emotionally prepared.
I wish there were 400 more pages, because I devoured this story way too fast. I wanted to stay in this world longer just wrapped up in Rae’s head, unraveling whatever secrets are bubbling under the surface, and basking in every moment of banter, tension, and emotional chaos.
the sci-fi reveal? Chef’s kiss. It was done so smoothly that I felt the genre shift happening in my bones. You can tell this world is about to expand in a big way, and I am so ready to be launched deeper into it in Book Two.
Also, a standing ovation for the chapter subtitles. Truly. The humor, the charm, the tiny micro-bursts of joy they delivered before every chapter… I felt spoiled.
As for the romance: this slow burn fed my soul. I live for the delicious, aching tension and this book understood the assignment. Once characters get together too quickly, I will admittedly zone out with the romance, but this? This had me kicking my feet like a teenager. And I can tell we’re being set up for one heck of a payoff in the next installment.
In short: Book Two can’t come fast enough. I’m already refreshing the author’s page like a raccoon at 3AM looking for snacks. Looks like Feb 2026 is when I can snatch up my copy!
Raven (Rae) stole my heart from page one. She is an overthinking, anxious little tornado of intrusive thoughts and I have never felt so seen. Her inner monologue had me laughing out loud more times than I could count. She is peak relatable millennial brain and I can already feel the groundwork for a phenomenal character arc ahead. It's brimming with strong character character growth with a fit of giggles from her witty expressions.
And then there’s Sky. Ugh. The perfect amount of charming, flawed, and mysterious. He’s one of those male leads who feels real enough to date… which is exactly why I’m suspicious of him. If he turns out to be too good to be true, I’m not emotionally prepared.
I wish there were 400 more pages, because I devoured this story way too fast. I wanted to stay in this world longer just wrapped up in Rae’s head, unraveling whatever secrets are bubbling under the surface, and basking in every moment of banter, tension, and emotional chaos.
the sci-fi reveal? Chef’s kiss. It was done so smoothly that I felt the genre shift happening in my bones. You can tell this world is about to expand in a big way, and I am so ready to be launched deeper into it in Book Two.
Also, a standing ovation for the chapter subtitles. Truly. The humor, the charm, the tiny micro-bursts of joy they delivered before every chapter… I felt spoiled.
As for the romance: this slow burn fed my soul. I live for the delicious, aching tension and this book understood the assignment. Once characters get together too quickly, I will admittedly zone out with the romance, but this? This had me kicking my feet like a teenager. And I can tell we’re being set up for one heck of a payoff in the next installment.
In short: Book Two can’t come fast enough. I’m already refreshing the author’s page like a raccoon at 3AM looking for snacks. Looks like Feb 2026 is when I can snatch up my copy!
October 29, 2025
👽 x nonbeliever
Broody MMC
Coworkers
Robots
Secret crush
Forbidden romance
Multiple 👽 species
Protective MMC
Slow burn
Raven is just trying to get through her shift at a restaurant to pay her way and get her education as an anthropology student. But things start to occur in their small town and everyone in town jumps to aliens. It seems Rae doesn’t believe. Then one night she's run off the road by a mysterious floating orb of light. And who better to come to the rescue than her hot bartender coworker, Sky, that she has a huge crush on?
Such a fun, light-hearted 👽 invasion with a touch of romance and extraterrestrial activities!
the characters are quirky and relatable, and I loved the humour. And the banter lol
Overall, Stardusted is a great read and I enjoyed this book! I can’t wait for the next book!
Quotes:
She says nothing at all, but simply stares upward into the dark sky and watches, with sad eyes, the slow dance of the infinite stars.
A philosopher once asked, "Are we human because we gaze at the stars, or do we gaze at them because we are human?" Pointless, really..."Do the stars gaze back?" Now, that's a question.
His eyes had looked like theyd won first place in a Hollywood special effects competition. He'd sparkled.
And not like the vampire guy from that one book. He'd had silver skin.
I tore my gaze from his mouth when his small smile deepened, revealing that rogue dimple in his right cheek that shouldn't be wielded around small children.
I knew there was a reason not to do this.
An extraterrestrial reason.
But right now, it couldn't hurt to try it out. you kror...for science.
Nothing was as it seemed lately.
Not my life.
Not the truth about aliens.
Not even my hot bartender crush.
"It's complicated. But I also.." He exhaled a soft,
self-depreciating
laugh and shook his head, "I don't know. I like the way you're looking at me right now. Like you see me."
You have to believe. Otherwise, it will never happen.
Every lover is, in his heart, a madman, and, in his head, a minstrel.
Adventures are all very well in their place, but there's a lot to be said for regular meals and freedom from pain.
He stared up at the stars: and it seemed to him then that they were dancers, stately and graceful, performing a dance almost infinite in its complexity. He imagined he could see the very faces of the stars; pale, they were, and smiling gently, as if they had spent so much time above the world, watching the scrambling and the joy and the pain of the people below them, that they could not help being amused every time another little human believed itself the center of its world, as each of us does.
You know when I said I knew little about love? That wasn't true. I know a lot about love. I've seen it, centuries and centuries of it, and it was the only thing that made watching your world bearable. All those wars. Pain, lies, hate... It made me want to turn away and never look down again. But when I see the way that mankind loves... You could search to the furthest reaches of the universe and never find anything more beautiful. So yes, I know that love is unconditional. But I also know that it can be unpredictable, unexpected, uncontrollable, unbearable and strangely easy to mistake for loathing, and... What I'm trying to say, Tristan is... I think I love you. Is this love, Tristan? I never imagined I'd know it for myself. My heart... It feels like my chest can barely contain it. Like it's trying to escape because it doesn't belong to me any more. It belongs to you. And if you wanted it, I'd wish for nothing in exchange - no gifts. No goods. No demonstrations of devotion. Nothing but knowing you loved me too. Just your heart, in exchange for mine.
There was once a young man who wished to gain his Heart’s Desire.
What do stars do? They shine
"Could it be that the heart that you seek is no longer my own? I have given my heart to another."…..
"Nonetheless, he has my heart. I hope your sisters will not be too hard on you, when you return to them without it.
Broody MMC
Coworkers
Robots
Secret crush
Forbidden romance
Multiple 👽 species
Protective MMC
Slow burn
Raven is just trying to get through her shift at a restaurant to pay her way and get her education as an anthropology student. But things start to occur in their small town and everyone in town jumps to aliens. It seems Rae doesn’t believe. Then one night she's run off the road by a mysterious floating orb of light. And who better to come to the rescue than her hot bartender coworker, Sky, that she has a huge crush on?
Such a fun, light-hearted 👽 invasion with a touch of romance and extraterrestrial activities!
the characters are quirky and relatable, and I loved the humour. And the banter lol
Overall, Stardusted is a great read and I enjoyed this book! I can’t wait for the next book!
Quotes:
She says nothing at all, but simply stares upward into the dark sky and watches, with sad eyes, the slow dance of the infinite stars.
A philosopher once asked, "Are we human because we gaze at the stars, or do we gaze at them because we are human?" Pointless, really..."Do the stars gaze back?" Now, that's a question.
His eyes had looked like theyd won first place in a Hollywood special effects competition. He'd sparkled.
And not like the vampire guy from that one book. He'd had silver skin.
I tore my gaze from his mouth when his small smile deepened, revealing that rogue dimple in his right cheek that shouldn't be wielded around small children.
I knew there was a reason not to do this.
An extraterrestrial reason.
But right now, it couldn't hurt to try it out. you kror...for science.
Nothing was as it seemed lately.
Not my life.
Not the truth about aliens.
Not even my hot bartender crush.
"It's complicated. But I also.." He exhaled a soft,
self-depreciating
laugh and shook his head, "I don't know. I like the way you're looking at me right now. Like you see me."
You have to believe. Otherwise, it will never happen.
Every lover is, in his heart, a madman, and, in his head, a minstrel.
Adventures are all very well in their place, but there's a lot to be said for regular meals and freedom from pain.
He stared up at the stars: and it seemed to him then that they were dancers, stately and graceful, performing a dance almost infinite in its complexity. He imagined he could see the very faces of the stars; pale, they were, and smiling gently, as if they had spent so much time above the world, watching the scrambling and the joy and the pain of the people below them, that they could not help being amused every time another little human believed itself the center of its world, as each of us does.
You know when I said I knew little about love? That wasn't true. I know a lot about love. I've seen it, centuries and centuries of it, and it was the only thing that made watching your world bearable. All those wars. Pain, lies, hate... It made me want to turn away and never look down again. But when I see the way that mankind loves... You could search to the furthest reaches of the universe and never find anything more beautiful. So yes, I know that love is unconditional. But I also know that it can be unpredictable, unexpected, uncontrollable, unbearable and strangely easy to mistake for loathing, and... What I'm trying to say, Tristan is... I think I love you. Is this love, Tristan? I never imagined I'd know it for myself. My heart... It feels like my chest can barely contain it. Like it's trying to escape because it doesn't belong to me any more. It belongs to you. And if you wanted it, I'd wish for nothing in exchange - no gifts. No goods. No demonstrations of devotion. Nothing but knowing you loved me too. Just your heart, in exchange for mine.
There was once a young man who wished to gain his Heart’s Desire.
What do stars do? They shine
"Could it be that the heart that you seek is no longer my own? I have given my heart to another."…..
"Nonetheless, he has my heart. I hope your sisters will not be too hard on you, when you return to them without it.
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