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A World Beyond #1
Torkel's Chosen
What would you do if Earth didn’t have enough men?
Would you take a chance and leave the only world you knew behind?
This is the decision Faith Reid faces. Placing all her hope in a new government program, she seizes the opportunity that offers a chance for the women of Earth to find love among the stars, on a world beyond the one they know.
How many times can one man risk rejection?
Would you give up on your dreams?
Torkel Alonson has had enough of being ignored and looked over by females on his adopted home world of Enotia. His pride has suffered and he must accept the painful truth. Females will never choose a male with his evil lineage despite his honorable service to his government’s military.
Can two people looking for the same thing find not just what they want but what they need in one another?
Would you take a chance and leave the only world you knew behind?
This is the decision Faith Reid faces. Placing all her hope in a new government program, she seizes the opportunity that offers a chance for the women of Earth to find love among the stars, on a world beyond the one they know.
How many times can one man risk rejection?
Would you give up on your dreams?
Torkel Alonson has had enough of being ignored and looked over by females on his adopted home world of Enotia. His pride has suffered and he must accept the painful truth. Females will never choose a male with his evil lineage despite his honorable service to his government’s military.
Can two people looking for the same thing find not just what they want but what they need in one another?
259 pages, ebook
First published February 1, 2015
390 people are currently reading
1715 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 320 reviews
February 3, 2015
3 stars.
This could have easily been 4 stars...except the heroine took a little bit too much abuse and she was the ONLY one apologizing - which really REALLY bugs me.
(pet peeve)
Before I rant, keep in mind I do recommend this book and fully intend to read the next in the series.
The world building was fantastic. The characters created were wonderful and I felt myself fully immersed in this story.
PLOT: Faith is living on an Earth in the future where a virus has decimated the male population where women outnumber men 10 to 1 and 20 to 1 in some places.
As it turns out, humans are compatible with 90% of the known alien speices.
Also, there is a galactic Singles Program that will ship mates off to specific worlds. Faith has applied twice before and been denied, and finally accepted on her third application. For twenty thousand dollars they will ship her off to find an alien husband.
She meets another girl leaving Earth named Lyndsey who schools Faith on all of the possibilities of planets and men. I feel certain the next book in this series will be about Lyndsey. Lyndsey wants to go to the planet where you get two husbands. Faith picks the planet with all of the blonde hot guys.
Torkel is a Marenian. Marenians are glactic slavers kidnapping and selling people. Torkel was left as a baby on this planet and adopted by a sweet couple of Enotians and raised to be a Junka (sp?) warrior. Because he is of his slaver-heritage, no woman wants him. He has tried to mate in this "choosing" ceremony 6 times. This 7th time is his final try.
******
I really don't want to spoiler this story because it was enjoyable despite my annoyance.
MH does a great job of setting up a snow-balling conflict.
It's one of those 'naive heroine' does something she didn't know she shouldn't & doesn't immediately tell the Hero about it. Then that action get used to blackmail her.
What really pissed me off about this story is:
I got into it and enjoyed the story despite my annoyance at the heroine seemingly reduced to begging for everyone to forgive her at the end.
It's an engaging story and the author made it very three dimensional for me.
I will definitely be looking for the next in this series.
PS - Sex scenes were yummy and descriptive!
This could have easily been 4 stars...except the heroine took a little bit too much abuse and she was the ONLY one apologizing - which really REALLY bugs me.
(pet peeve)
Before I rant, keep in mind I do recommend this book and fully intend to read the next in the series.
The world building was fantastic. The characters created were wonderful and I felt myself fully immersed in this story.
PLOT: Faith is living on an Earth in the future where a virus has decimated the male population where women outnumber men 10 to 1 and 20 to 1 in some places.
As it turns out, humans are compatible with 90% of the known alien speices.
Also, there is a galactic Singles Program that will ship mates off to specific worlds. Faith has applied twice before and been denied, and finally accepted on her third application. For twenty thousand dollars they will ship her off to find an alien husband.
She meets another girl leaving Earth named Lyndsey who schools Faith on all of the possibilities of planets and men. I feel certain the next book in this series will be about Lyndsey. Lyndsey wants to go to the planet where you get two husbands. Faith picks the planet with all of the blonde hot guys.
Torkel is a Marenian. Marenians are glactic slavers kidnapping and selling people. Torkel was left as a baby on this planet and adopted by a sweet couple of Enotians and raised to be a Junka (sp?) warrior. Because he is of his slaver-heritage, no woman wants him. He has tried to mate in this "choosing" ceremony 6 times. This 7th time is his final try.
******
I really don't want to spoiler this story because it was enjoyable despite my annoyance.
MH does a great job of setting up a snow-balling conflict.
It's one of those 'naive heroine' does something she didn't know she shouldn't & doesn't immediately tell the Hero about it. Then that action get used to blackmail her.
What really pissed me off about this story is:
I got into it and enjoyed the story despite my annoyance at the heroine seemingly reduced to begging for everyone to forgive her at the end.
It's an engaging story and the author made it very three dimensional for me.
I will definitely be looking for the next in this series.
PS - Sex scenes were yummy and descriptive!
December 5, 2015
Well, that was disappointing!
It started off really well, the hero being so desperate to have a chosen, and the heroine being sweet and kind, it seemed like a match in heaven.
Sadly... what kind of military compound is so easily broken into? Why was Axan so damn upset at the heroine choosing the hero? Why did the heroine have to go through months of literal torture, and then on top of that have to apologise, while the hero who had abandoned her didn't apologise even once? And our heroine, after figuring out she was being blackmailed, why didn't she come clean to her chosen? No answers were forthcoming.
I was extremely disappointed when our hero abandoned the heroine, because it showed that all the flowery words spouted before that were bullshit. And that just turned me off the whole story. Also, where was the world building? All in all, a very disappointing read.
It started off really well, the hero being so desperate to have a chosen, and the heroine being sweet and kind, it seemed like a match in heaven.
Sadly... what kind of military compound is so easily broken into? Why was Axan so damn upset at the heroine choosing the hero? Why did the heroine have to go through months of literal torture, and then on top of that have to apologise, while the hero who had abandoned her didn't apologise even once? And our heroine, after figuring out she was being blackmailed, why didn't she come clean to her chosen? No answers were forthcoming.
I was extremely disappointed when our hero abandoned the heroine, because it showed that all the flowery words spouted before that were bullshit. And that just turned me off the whole story. Also, where was the world building? All in all, a very disappointing read.
September 8, 2023
Surprisingly good!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💚❤️💜💖
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌍
Character development: 😉☺️😘🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Solo Narration
The heroine: Faith (a.k.a. Faye) - Earth had a shortage of men after a virus took out much of the world’s population. Women outnumbered men ten to one and most women applied for the off-world singles program. Faith applied to the program three times before being accepted and that was a rarity especially since they considered 28 to be too old. She was excited to be going off-world and since human women were compatible with 90% of the alien populations, chances were good of her finding someone to love and have children with.
The Hero: Torkel - on his own world of Enotia, he was not seen as a ‘catch’, due to the the fact that he was of Marenian origin, and they had a history as slavers. He had been rejected over and over by the females of his world despite the fact that he was a respectable man with a distinguished history as a warrior and leader who often fought against Marenian slavers. He wanted nothing more than to find a chosen to love and applied to the singles program but was passed over seven times already.
The Story: Torkel had heard great thing about females from Earth. They were lively and sensual and most males who had them, were happy with their chosen. Faye and the other women were able to choose which world they wanted to go to, and she chose Enotia. Once at the choosing, she met a man who offered to pay her $20,000 to choose his friend who had not been chosen in seven years and it was his last year. She agreed, but more because of their similar circumstances than because of the money.
I liked how surprised Torkel was when Faye chose him. He was so honored and happy to be finally chosen. Though he still had trouble believing that she really wanted to stay with him. I also loved how Torkel’s friends and warriors were so interested in Fae. They asked her all sorts of questions about Earth women. She was the first one they have seen. The Enotian men looked very much like human men, though most had light blonde hair. Torkel had dark hair due to his Marenian background. They asked her if human females came in all different colors and sizes and were fascinated. They gave her something to drink and she immediately got drunk, which was a nice ice breaker.
I knew from the start that taking that money would come back to haunt Faye, and it wasn’t long before that happened. It added some mystery and intrigue to the storyline. I have read a lot of alien romance, and I liked this storyline. It seemed new and different when so many alien romance seem to be little more that retelling of the alien barbarian trope.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via solo narration. It was narrated by Michael Pauley. He has a nice deep voice which was very pleasant sounding. He is good at doing that tempo that is a bit formal and stilted which seems to work so well for alien romance. Soft music played at the beginning and end of each chapter. I don’t think I have ever heard that before on an audiobook.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💚❤️💜💖
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌍
Character development: 😉☺️😘🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Solo Narration
The heroine: Faith (a.k.a. Faye) - Earth had a shortage of men after a virus took out much of the world’s population. Women outnumbered men ten to one and most women applied for the off-world singles program. Faith applied to the program three times before being accepted and that was a rarity especially since they considered 28 to be too old. She was excited to be going off-world and since human women were compatible with 90% of the alien populations, chances were good of her finding someone to love and have children with.
The Hero: Torkel - on his own world of Enotia, he was not seen as a ‘catch’, due to the the fact that he was of Marenian origin, and they had a history as slavers. He had been rejected over and over by the females of his world despite the fact that he was a respectable man with a distinguished history as a warrior and leader who often fought against Marenian slavers. He wanted nothing more than to find a chosen to love and applied to the singles program but was passed over seven times already.
The Story: Torkel had heard great thing about females from Earth. They were lively and sensual and most males who had them, were happy with their chosen. Faye and the other women were able to choose which world they wanted to go to, and she chose Enotia. Once at the choosing, she met a man who offered to pay her $20,000 to choose his friend who had not been chosen in seven years and it was his last year. She agreed, but more because of their similar circumstances than because of the money.
I liked how surprised Torkel was when Faye chose him. He was so honored and happy to be finally chosen. Though he still had trouble believing that she really wanted to stay with him. I also loved how Torkel’s friends and warriors were so interested in Fae. They asked her all sorts of questions about Earth women. She was the first one they have seen. The Enotian men looked very much like human men, though most had light blonde hair. Torkel had dark hair due to his Marenian background. They asked her if human females came in all different colors and sizes and were fascinated. They gave her something to drink and she immediately got drunk, which was a nice ice breaker.
I knew from the start that taking that money would come back to haunt Faye, and it wasn’t long before that happened. It added some mystery and intrigue to the storyline. I have read a lot of alien romance, and I liked this storyline. It seemed new and different when so many alien romance seem to be little more that retelling of the alien barbarian trope.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via solo narration. It was narrated by Michael Pauley. He has a nice deep voice which was very pleasant sounding. He is good at doing that tempo that is a bit formal and stilted which seems to work so well for alien romance. Soft music played at the beginning and end of each chapter. I don’t think I have ever heard that before on an audiobook.
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April 9, 2017
3 1/2 stars
I enjoyed this book a lot and would've rated it higher except for one MAJOR thing - this book needed a good grovel from the H!!! I don't understand why authors have their H's behave badly and then neglect that critical element! Neglecting to include a good grovel scene can ruin a book. If the author would've included a good grovel (& depending on how good it was) this easily could've been a 5 star book.
The h in this book was super annoying with her beyond stupid decisions however those decisions were a driving factor in the book and ended up creating a lot of angst. The angst was unexpected and added a deeper & rivioting element to the story. I was spellbound & devoured the second half of the book greedily anticipating the grovel - that never happened! URGH!
Ms. Howard wrote a terrific sci-fi romance that had a hunky, likeable H, an interesting unique new world & culture and an absorbing plot. I would recommend if you can tolerate
I enjoyed this book a lot and would've rated it higher except for one MAJOR thing - this book needed a good grovel from the H!!! I don't understand why authors have their H's behave badly and then neglect that critical element! Neglecting to include a good grovel scene can ruin a book. If the author would've included a good grovel (& depending on how good it was) this easily could've been a 5 star book.
The h in this book was super annoying with her beyond stupid decisions however those decisions were a driving factor in the book and ended up creating a lot of angst. The angst was unexpected and added a deeper & rivioting element to the story. I was spellbound & devoured the second half of the book greedily anticipating the grovel - that never happened! URGH!
Ms. Howard wrote a terrific sci-fi romance that had a hunky, likeable H, an interesting unique new world & culture and an absorbing plot. I would recommend if you can tolerate
February 5, 2015
3 1/2 stars, Earth is now over run with woman, leaving the few men on earth to treat woman like playthings and then leave. When a new program was opened and woman could apply to meat aliens who were compatible Faye knew this was her only chance at a family. But with her age raising and getting closer to being to old for the program this is Faye's last chance. Getting accepted Faye leaves. Torkel knows this is his last choosing after being rejected too many times he can no longer take the pain of being past over because of his heritage. Torkel is from a world that has slaves and though he was found abandoned as a baby and raised on a different planet no one can forget who he really is even if he now works hard to stop slavery. He knows that he may have to accept being all alone with only his friends and work.
After choosing her planet and deciding on her mate Faye is intercepted by a man who asked her to reconsider and pick his friend who has been passed over too many times. After hearing Torkel's story thats hits a little too close to home and the promise of a money transfer Faye agrees. Soon Faye realizes that picking Torkel was the best thing that ever happened to her. He is sweet and loving and they very quickly begin to fall in love and neither can imagine being happier. Then Faye gets a call from the man who gave her money wanting information of Torkel's mission. When Faye says no the caller threatens the truth, knowing it would break Torkel's heart Faye agrees. As time goes by the burden of her secret weighs heavy and Torkel and his men begin to wonder if they have a trader in their mist after to many failed missions.
When alarms go off one day Torkel runs to keep his chosen safe only to realize she has been taken. Knowing he can't rest till he has her back safe Torkel and his men do everything they can to get Faye back till a message is delivered revealing Faye's secret. Devastated Torkel grieves his loss. After being captured and tortured Faye is sure Torkel will save her but Torkel isn't so sure he can forgive.
I really liked this book, Torkel was a great hero who loved Faye more than anything in the world and only wanted to take care of her and make sure she was safe. Faye only wanted love like her parents had and knew she found that in Torkel. Some won't like what happens after Faye is taken but I think it just added to the story. I do wish what happens after had been given more time and delved into more because I enjoyed that so much. This being the first book in a new series we also get a whole set of new interesting characters just waiting for their own book. This is the first time I have read a book by this author and I really enjoyed it and her writing style. She easily drew me in and had me rooting for the characters and shaking my head in despair when Faye made what she thought was an innocent deal. This is a series I will be keeping my eye on to see what happens next.
After choosing her planet and deciding on her mate Faye is intercepted by a man who asked her to reconsider and pick his friend who has been passed over too many times. After hearing Torkel's story thats hits a little too close to home and the promise of a money transfer Faye agrees. Soon Faye realizes that picking Torkel was the best thing that ever happened to her. He is sweet and loving and they very quickly begin to fall in love and neither can imagine being happier. Then Faye gets a call from the man who gave her money wanting information of Torkel's mission. When Faye says no the caller threatens the truth, knowing it would break Torkel's heart Faye agrees. As time goes by the burden of her secret weighs heavy and Torkel and his men begin to wonder if they have a trader in their mist after to many failed missions.
When alarms go off one day Torkel runs to keep his chosen safe only to realize she has been taken. Knowing he can't rest till he has her back safe Torkel and his men do everything they can to get Faye back till a message is delivered revealing Faye's secret. Devastated Torkel grieves his loss. After being captured and tortured Faye is sure Torkel will save her but Torkel isn't so sure he can forgive.
I really liked this book, Torkel was a great hero who loved Faye more than anything in the world and only wanted to take care of her and make sure she was safe. Faye only wanted love like her parents had and knew she found that in Torkel. Some won't like what happens after Faye is taken but I think it just added to the story. I do wish what happens after had been given more time and delved into more because I enjoyed that so much. This being the first book in a new series we also get a whole set of new interesting characters just waiting for their own book. This is the first time I have read a book by this author and I really enjoyed it and her writing style. She easily drew me in and had me rooting for the characters and shaking my head in despair when Faye made what she thought was an innocent deal. This is a series I will be keeping my eye on to see what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2016
Beginning: Okay
Early Middle: STUPID!!!!!! ..... Stupid!!!!!
End: Meh
Torkel needs to get his ass confronted with something and feel the mother of all guilt-trips
that is all.
Early Middle: STUPID!!!!!! ..... Stupid!!!!!
End: Meh
Torkel needs to get his ass confronted with something and feel the mother of all guilt-trips
that is all.
May 26, 2015
Torkel and Faith. Well I have to say I was VERY disappointed in this one. I enjoyed her other warlord series so much, that I was expecting more of the same. But this was kinda predictable and Faith was dull as dishwater. Torkel is your usual elite Alpha hot-guy but with the handicap of racism against him by so many of the people on his adopted planet. So he is used to being undervalued and has learned to expect nothing. Where Earth is short on men due to some virus, Torkel's home planet is short on women and he is usually the odd man left out. Faith in a ditsy snafu as she heads out to the ceremony where women choose their men on this planet, accepts a bribe to choose Torkel. Although it would seem to Faith that all her troubles are almost gone, things are going to just get worse. There's a crazy spoiled jealous guy but worse then that, she's being blackmailed to tell secrets on her new husband who works in kind of a navy seals type job. I thought Faith was so utterly gutless. She really does sell him out and her reasoning was so selfish and shallow, that it I was hoping she'd get killed off and I started to skim ahead through the story.
November 23, 2016
I liked so much about this book. The world building is nicely done and it has one of my favorite troupes: a hero and heroine who both want to be married.
Though it isn't exactly, mail order bride, it is close enough.
The band of brothers the Torkel leads is a wonderful group of special forces. His story of adoption and his loving family are great.
I like the heroine. However, she does something really dumb. It works my nerve and I think that if she doesn't get how she should have come forward with it and why it was really, really bad, she becomes dumb. Agh. But this thing she does makes little sense to me and hurts character development. I get why she does one thing but then the other thing which would hurt as much more than the thing she is preventing, no. How is that for no spoilers?
Now, she really pays for her error. A lot. So, there is that.
So, I liked the book despite this maddening element. And will be buying the rest of the series because the other heroes and heroines look great!
Though it isn't exactly, mail order bride, it is close enough.
The band of brothers the Torkel leads is a wonderful group of special forces. His story of adoption and his loving family are great.
I like the heroine. However, she does something really dumb. It works my nerve and I think that if she doesn't get how she should have come forward with it and why it was really, really bad, she becomes dumb. Agh. But this thing she does makes little sense to me and hurts character development. I get why she does one thing but then the other thing which would hurt as much more than the thing she is preventing, no. How is that for no spoilers?
Now, she really pays for her error. A lot. So, there is that.
So, I liked the book despite this maddening element. And will be buying the rest of the series because the other heroes and heroines look great!
February 2, 2016
Mehh no thank you.
June 22, 2020
This book really pushed some buttons.
I hate it when misunderstandings escalate and when you cast projections on the other person when it's you with all the hang-ups. Yes you've been burned and admittedly it's terrible but that does not excuse your asshole behaviour.
The more I think about it the more I get pissed off and the more I question myself that what exactly was it that I liked/enjoyed about this book? Was Fay (the h) just plain new born stupid? Fudge Yes! But did she deserve what happened for her mistake? No, she didn't. She was an idiot but she was a scared idiot and we all make terrible choices out of fear.
Agh!! I keep getting pissed off. Ugh! I hate that H. Ooof! The entire book progressed as if he had done nothing wrong! Hell! He never even accepted that she didn't do it on purpose. That f*ckwad!
Damn it! I'm so done with this.
2.75 stars because while the story and characters were shit the more I think about it, the author can write.
August 4, 2016
DNF 80%
This book left a very bad taste in my mouth. I don’t like blackmail driven plots because, as Kyele said, “You’ve got to be extremely naïve.” Yes, extremely, to not see the solution to this problem staring you right in the face. And I do not like naïve characters, be they male or female.
Torkel was no better. I mean, come on… How the hell did you become a leader when you blab to your wife about top secret missions every time you go on one? She couldn’t have given him anything if she didn’t know anything, right.
Would like to finish this book but I’m not going to hold my breath on that happening. I’m to f**king disgusted with Faye for being so pathetic as to beg Torkel not to leave her.
This book left a very bad taste in my mouth. I don’t like blackmail driven plots because, as Kyele said, “You’ve got to be extremely naïve.” Yes, extremely, to not see the solution to this problem staring you right in the face. And I do not like naïve characters, be they male or female.
Torkel was no better. I mean, come on… How the hell did you become a leader when you blab to your wife about top secret missions every time you go on one? She couldn’t have given him anything if she didn’t know anything, right.
Would like to finish this book but I’m not going to hold my breath on that happening. I’m to f**king disgusted with Faye for being so pathetic as to beg Torkel not to leave her.
July 26, 2018
3.5 Stars
September 23, 2018
I can’t decide what is worse... a so-so story that is written well or a SUPER good story that has infuriating holes in the writing! This book is the latter.
Honestly - the story had me from the minute I started reading. The premise of a “choosing” where the men line up in hopes that a woman will pick them for a mate and the women having the decision of getting that choice is perfect! How many times do we read of just the opposite? And, add to that, Torkel is a Navy Seals-type warrior (albeit on another planet) who has had to live down his low-birth and deal with the rejection in that Choosing for seven long years before Faith finally chooses him.
It was the very best of romance reading!! Then, the holes started showing up. First, they were small, like a Sci-fi with no world building or explanations at all. That isn’t something I minded much, though. BUT... then Faith made some decisions that were truly TSTL and with those, the impending plot was immediately given away. From there it was just super annoying waiting for the bomb to drop. After everything hit the fan, however, things got back on track and the tension and nail-biting hit nuclear levels as we watched the devastating fall-out for Faith’s choices.
That’s when another HUGE hole opens and completely swallows the reader. We are absolutely aching for the conversation between Tarkel and Faith that will bring about the resolution. But WE DON’T GET IT!!! Instead we have a quickly rushed, half-baked attempt, gloss over and... The End. The author doesn’t give readers the time for Faith and Torkel to really understand and connect - with BOTH of them seeing how they messed up - NOT just Faith. Good Grief, Torkel needed to understand what she went through because of HIS neglect for heavens sake!!!! We need to see him hear her story and know what she went through to protect him. Because of this, the story overlooks any depth that would have made this an unforgettable story.
SO... my dear friends, Would I recommend this book? I’m honestly not sure. It had a world’s worth of potential but where much is given, much is expected. Those expectations just weren’t met - at least for me. I guess I would suggest trying it and see if it is worth it for you. I know I’ll be giving the series at least one more chance just to see if things develop better down the road.
Honestly - the story had me from the minute I started reading. The premise of a “choosing” where the men line up in hopes that a woman will pick them for a mate and the women having the decision of getting that choice is perfect! How many times do we read of just the opposite? And, add to that, Torkel is a Navy Seals-type warrior (albeit on another planet) who has had to live down his low-birth and deal with the rejection in that Choosing for seven long years before Faith finally chooses him.
It was the very best of romance reading!! Then, the holes started showing up. First, they were small, like a Sci-fi with no world building or explanations at all. That isn’t something I minded much, though. BUT... then Faith made some decisions that were truly TSTL and with those, the impending plot was immediately given away. From there it was just super annoying waiting for the bomb to drop. After everything hit the fan, however, things got back on track and the tension and nail-biting hit nuclear levels as we watched the devastating fall-out for Faith’s choices.
That’s when another HUGE hole opens and completely swallows the reader. We are absolutely aching for the conversation between Tarkel and Faith that will bring about the resolution. But WE DON’T GET IT!!! Instead we have a quickly rushed, half-baked attempt, gloss over and... The End. The author doesn’t give readers the time for Faith and Torkel to really understand and connect - with BOTH of them seeing how they messed up - NOT just Faith. Good Grief, Torkel needed to understand what she went through because of HIS neglect for heavens sake!!!! We need to see him hear her story and know what she went through to protect him. Because of this, the story overlooks any depth that would have made this an unforgettable story.
SO... my dear friends, Would I recommend this book? I’m honestly not sure. It had a world’s worth of potential but where much is given, much is expected. Those expectations just weren’t met - at least for me. I guess I would suggest trying it and see if it is worth it for you. I know I’ll be giving the series at least one more chance just to see if things develop better down the road.
March 20, 2015
With age a factor and the chance of having a husband and family becoming progressively unlikely, Faith Reid makes a decision to pay the required $20,000 fee to travel to another planet to mate with an alien. Choosing the planet Enotia for the tall muscle bound HAWT alpha male population, Faye is about to get an education when she's informed she, along with all the women aboard ship, will have to choose their husbands immediately upon arriving from a pre-selected pool of eligible men, and based solely on their provided bio profiles. Choices to be made on a first grabbed first choice basis.
Torkel Alonson has served his planet as a Jutak Warrior (equivalent to US SEALS) with honor and to the best of his ability but it's not enough to attract a Chosen. Seven times he has entered the pool waiting and seven times he has left, alone. He makes it known that this is his last time. One last time to be rejected before the realization of never having a family becomes his reality.
Fate and friends put the two together but is it enough when outside forces and circumstances put roadblocks in the way that will test their very resolve and loyalties.
* * *
This series uses the Earth women/alien mating premise in a formula that I've seen so many times before: other planets (aliens) need women and Earth has them (women) to supply. I'll admit I'm a fan of this sort of theme as long as it's done right and has an original slant to distance it from other similar themes. In this case I guess a similar flavor is Michelle Pillow's "Dragon Lords" series so if you are a fan of that series you'll probably enjoy this one.
While the author makes a good attempt to add twists & turns and suspense elements to the story, I myself felt it was straightforward and predictable. But. It was promising enough that I definitely will be looking to follow it (i.e. Kyele) hoping the author tweeks problematic issues and finds her own unique voice for the series as a whole.
Main characters. It was refreshing to have a female character who isn't afraid or reluctant to embrace her sexuality and can hold her own. Faye wasn't a shy TSTL character (though she was naive) who made the decision to seek out a husband and then gets all virginal and repressed when she gets exactly what she's looking for. Call it biological clock or nesting syndrome but Faye wanted her man and once she got him she jumped into enjoying him in all ways (if you know what I mean). Torkel was well depicted as a male who had been rejected so many times and doesn't feel worthy yet, to please his family and friends, he continues to go through the humiliating choosing ceremony time after time. He's made the decision to end the farce by making it known he's only doing it one last time when low and behold he's chosen. Definitely got me vested and cheering these two on.
Secondary characters. I mentioned in my subjective story summation that Torkel is the equivalent of a US SEAL and therefore it's no stretch of the imagination in saying he lives with his team and brings Faye there. Imagine a sole female being added to this testosterone environment. Men who haven't seen or interacted with a female. I laughed, I giggled, I groaned as Jaron, Geile, Gregir, Arak, Kyele, & Dr. Maky added value to the world building and a glimpse into where the series will be going. Each reader will have their favorite as the variety and mix will appeal to different fans. Throw in Lindsey, Axan, Lissi, & other unnamed characters and the die is cast. It's a flip of the coin whether I want Lindsey or Kyele to get their stories told next but based on the way this story ended I'm hoping for Lindsey (menage potential).
Adult content. Yes, there are a number of erotica scenes of the m/f variety that have a sensual erotic slant and a degree of kinkery. One of the reasons I'm a SFR fan is because of the fantasy potential. In this case the author did embellish on aliens being anatomically similar yet different. This added some pleasurable results in the intimacy scenes between the main characters that keeps me hopeful for my own abduction some day. hehehe.
My issues. While I totally appreciated and enjoyed the superficial story as a whole, problematic issues in the meat and potato department kept getting in the way. The biggie is the overall premise that there were very very limited numbers of women approved for a chance to acquire off planet mates AND required to pay a hefty sum of money when there were planets desperate for female mates. I totally get the need to be very picky and screen women but once that threshold is met .... totally don't understand why the women were paying such a huge sum of money based on the back story details/information. Myself, I'd think the receiving planet would so that whole $20,000 and all circumstances surrounding that just didn't make sense or work for me. That had me further questioning so many off shoots about this whole premise to the point it became a non issue for me. I'm also a bit peeved regarding the Jutaks. SEAL's are notoriously the best of the best i.e. Justaks are the same. That means if scenes are written that don't keep to that premise - they shouldn't be. That's all I'll say about that...
I am recommending this though not to any 'must read this book' degree as the meat and potato content had issues. I do feel though that it is promising if tweeked and added depth is provided to the plot mystery/suspense theme. By that I mean this installment has a HFN ending that 'teases' at several open ended potentials for the series as a whole. I'm hopeful that the snack quality installment I just read turns into more of a full meal deal in which case I'll definitely become a fan.
Now hand me a glass of soku.....
Torkel Alonson has served his planet as a Jutak Warrior (equivalent to US SEALS) with honor and to the best of his ability but it's not enough to attract a Chosen. Seven times he has entered the pool waiting and seven times he has left, alone. He makes it known that this is his last time. One last time to be rejected before the realization of never having a family becomes his reality.
Fate and friends put the two together but is it enough when outside forces and circumstances put roadblocks in the way that will test their very resolve and loyalties.
* * *
This series uses the Earth women/alien mating premise in a formula that I've seen so many times before: other planets (aliens) need women and Earth has them (women) to supply. I'll admit I'm a fan of this sort of theme as long as it's done right and has an original slant to distance it from other similar themes. In this case I guess a similar flavor is Michelle Pillow's "Dragon Lords" series so if you are a fan of that series you'll probably enjoy this one.
While the author makes a good attempt to add twists & turns and suspense elements to the story, I myself felt it was straightforward and predictable. But. It was promising enough that I definitely will be looking to follow it (i.e. Kyele) hoping the author tweeks problematic issues and finds her own unique voice for the series as a whole.
Main characters. It was refreshing to have a female character who isn't afraid or reluctant to embrace her sexuality and can hold her own. Faye wasn't a shy TSTL character (though she was naive) who made the decision to seek out a husband and then gets all virginal and repressed when she gets exactly what she's looking for. Call it biological clock or nesting syndrome but Faye wanted her man and once she got him she jumped into enjoying him in all ways (if you know what I mean). Torkel was well depicted as a male who had been rejected so many times and doesn't feel worthy yet, to please his family and friends, he continues to go through the humiliating choosing ceremony time after time. He's made the decision to end the farce by making it known he's only doing it one last time when low and behold he's chosen. Definitely got me vested and cheering these two on.
Secondary characters. I mentioned in my subjective story summation that Torkel is the equivalent of a US SEAL and therefore it's no stretch of the imagination in saying he lives with his team and brings Faye there. Imagine a sole female being added to this testosterone environment. Men who haven't seen or interacted with a female. I laughed, I giggled, I groaned as Jaron, Geile, Gregir, Arak, Kyele, & Dr. Maky added value to the world building and a glimpse into where the series will be going. Each reader will have their favorite as the variety and mix will appeal to different fans. Throw in Lindsey, Axan, Lissi, & other unnamed characters and the die is cast. It's a flip of the coin whether I want Lindsey or Kyele to get their stories told next but based on the way this story ended I'm hoping for Lindsey (menage potential).
Adult content. Yes, there are a number of erotica scenes of the m/f variety that have a sensual erotic slant and a degree of kinkery. One of the reasons I'm a SFR fan is because of the fantasy potential. In this case the author did embellish on aliens being anatomically similar yet different. This added some pleasurable results in the intimacy scenes between the main characters that keeps me hopeful for my own abduction some day. hehehe.
My issues. While I totally appreciated and enjoyed the superficial story as a whole, problematic issues in the meat and potato department kept getting in the way. The biggie is the overall premise that there were very very limited numbers of women approved for a chance to acquire off planet mates AND required to pay a hefty sum of money when there were planets desperate for female mates. I totally get the need to be very picky and screen women but once that threshold is met .... totally don't understand why the women were paying such a huge sum of money based on the back story details/information. Myself, I'd think the receiving planet would so that whole $20,000 and all circumstances surrounding that just didn't make sense or work for me. That had me further questioning so many off shoots about this whole premise to the point it became a non issue for me. I'm also a bit peeved regarding the Jutaks. SEAL's are notoriously the best of the best i.e. Justaks are the same. That means if scenes are written that don't keep to that premise - they shouldn't be. That's all I'll say about that...
I am recommending this though not to any 'must read this book' degree as the meat and potato content had issues. I do feel though that it is promising if tweeked and added depth is provided to the plot mystery/suspense theme. By that I mean this installment has a HFN ending that 'teases' at several open ended potentials for the series as a whole. I'm hopeful that the snack quality installment I just read turns into more of a full meal deal in which case I'll definitely become a fan.
Now hand me a glass of soku.....
not-interested
March 2, 2016"Hero" that deserves to get stabbed in his sleep.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
May 13, 2019
WARNING!
YEP... STUPID GIRL ALERT!
Let's start by saying I enjoyed this new author. A nice new series to add to my "Alien Addiction" mental list and looking forward to the next book.
Having said that, I need to address that I disagreed with many reviewers on many things, which I will address throughout my review.
This is one of those reads that you either love or hate.
So this is about Faith Reid's decision to leave Earth to find the alien man of her dreams...
She enlists in the government program to be an alien bride. Basically, she pays, chooses the alien by bio-pic and has to learn the planets rules to meet her alien male match. There aren't a lot of men on Earth so it's an "Earth Needs Males" kind of thing.
This, of course, benefits aliens because their situation is reversed, "Mars Needs Woman".
So both sides are happy!
The only problem is, Faith's choice has been influenced by a deal she should have never made in the first place... Or should she?
That's how she chooses Torkel. A Jutak Warrior who was adopted and belongs to an evil race.
An insecure soul that has tried to be chosen by a female around seven times already. Torkel has tried to prove to the people of Enotia that he is good in heart and worthy. But nothing he does earns him the trust or the respect he deserves. No female has chosen him... Till now.
Things I liked:
I think the author's style excels in two major aspects, to provoke emotion and to keep you engaged despite a rushed pace that has obvious plot holes.
I also liked the fact that this time, the girls get to choose! A lot of hetero single ladies need men.
The twist of the Mars Needs Woman theme was a great move from the author. I thought it was original and very interesting. All my single ladies finding their alien match in heaven... Sorry space, I mean space.
There is no forcing anyone to anything, which is kind of a thing in this genre. It was truly a breath of fresh air!
One of the things I loved about this book, and many will disagree, is Torkel. Did anybody notice the Loki origin story wink here?
Yes, I'm talking about THE Loki of Thor MCU. Although, in his case, he doesn't get to know he's adopted until further on, in the story.
Torkel and Loki have totally different objectives and developments. BUT!
They both belong to an evil race. They were adopted by the good guys and they both feel like they don't belong. Their insecurity and origins are what make a beautifully sad tortured hero/villain.
Ok, you get my point...
Of course, similarities pretty much end there. Going back to Torkel and why I love this character...
I love the fact that he's a hero who's constantly trying to prove himself. Who is insecure, emotionally weak and can't see his worth. His humility and need to appease make him vulnerable. Rejections and discrimination make him a relatable character. Setting aside the fact that he was raised by the "good guys", you can see how he struggles with a weight that is not his own but of an entire race. And he still tries to be good!
My face scrunched up when I read some reviews saying that Torkel didn't apologize for not believing in the heroine and didn't even acknowledge her torture. Let me ask you this.
If the love of your life was paid to choose and marry you, how would you feel?
Like your boyfriend lied to you all this time and he was paid...
GOD! I'd be raging! And if I had insecurity issues it would be worse. So I get that Torkel feels betrayed. That he is disappointed and feels used. That he no longer trusted our heroin and that it took time for him to understand and believe her motives. Totally understandable!
And most of us girls would've been much more unforgiving in his shoes.
The sexy bits were great and the chemistry between Faith and Torkel dance between hot & sweet all the time. I was into it.
I would've liked a little bit more love and communication scenes, but it's okay.
One more thing I enjoyed, was the secondary characters and potential heroes in the following books. It had a Dohner, Laurann vibe without the world building.
Things I didn't enjoy...
The plot in this installment was fairly weak. And there were major plotholes everywhere.
I also disliked the lack of detail and world building. It's like the author herself was skimming while she wrote. Focusing on the relationship and some unnecessary conversations that didn't help the development of the story at all.
Faith... I hated Faith. One, she's stupid and easily manipulated.
Has no one told her not to trust strangers? What was she thinking?
And after you made the stupid mistake, couldn't she have come forward and told Torkel the truth before things got crazy?
No... She lies. Decides to hide things under a rug like dust and just lives a lie. Dishonesty is not a thing I can easily forgive. So its something I hated in Faith. Not only because she lies, but because she makes no effort to come clean with the person she loves. She is only thinking of herself...
Not of Torkel's feelings and how hurt he could be if someone else tells him.
And Faith is not evil. She's just stupid and thoughtless when it comes to life and the important stuff. I've seen more mature teenagers than this woman!
*sigh*
She definitely redeems herself when she pays for her mistakes. And I valued that stage of the character when she faces the consequences of her actions. Faith also needs more background, she's a definite 2D character in my book.
The story itself felt short and went a little bland at the end. I truly have no issue with fast-paced reads, but I really needed more development between these two characters.
I needed more redemption from her part. I needed her to do something gutsy at some point to make the story a little more epic. And I really needed Torkel to overcome his issues with insecurity and trust, which never happens.
The characters never come full circle and that's the major issue in this book.
To conclude this review... Its a good start for a series and has some refreshing points. A 3.0 Star is enough for this one. It's recommendable and enjoyable. Has room to improve and potential tools to be used in other books. So I dig this series and I'm looking forward to other heroines and their alien choices.
YEP... STUPID GIRL ALERT!
Let's start by saying I enjoyed this new author. A nice new series to add to my "Alien Addiction" mental list and looking forward to the next book.
Having said that, I need to address that I disagreed with many reviewers on many things, which I will address throughout my review.
This is one of those reads that you either love or hate.
So this is about Faith Reid's decision to leave Earth to find the alien man of her dreams...
She enlists in the government program to be an alien bride. Basically, she pays, chooses the alien by bio-pic and has to learn the planets rules to meet her alien male match. There aren't a lot of men on Earth so it's an "Earth Needs Males" kind of thing.
This, of course, benefits aliens because their situation is reversed, "Mars Needs Woman".
So both sides are happy!
The only problem is, Faith's choice has been influenced by a deal she should have never made in the first place... Or should she?
That's how she chooses Torkel. A Jutak Warrior who was adopted and belongs to an evil race.
An insecure soul that has tried to be chosen by a female around seven times already. Torkel has tried to prove to the people of Enotia that he is good in heart and worthy. But nothing he does earns him the trust or the respect he deserves. No female has chosen him... Till now.
Things I liked:
I think the author's style excels in two major aspects, to provoke emotion and to keep you engaged despite a rushed pace that has obvious plot holes.
I also liked the fact that this time, the girls get to choose! A lot of hetero single ladies need men.
The twist of the Mars Needs Woman theme was a great move from the author. I thought it was original and very interesting. All my single ladies finding their alien match in heaven... Sorry space, I mean space.
There is no forcing anyone to anything, which is kind of a thing in this genre. It was truly a breath of fresh air!
One of the things I loved about this book, and many will disagree, is Torkel. Did anybody notice the Loki origin story wink here?
Yes, I'm talking about THE Loki of Thor MCU. Although, in his case, he doesn't get to know he's adopted until further on, in the story.
Torkel and Loki have totally different objectives and developments. BUT!
They both belong to an evil race. They were adopted by the good guys and they both feel like they don't belong. Their insecurity and origins are what make a beautifully sad tortured hero/villain.
Ok, you get my point...
Of course, similarities pretty much end there. Going back to Torkel and why I love this character...
I love the fact that he's a hero who's constantly trying to prove himself. Who is insecure, emotionally weak and can't see his worth. His humility and need to appease make him vulnerable. Rejections and discrimination make him a relatable character. Setting aside the fact that he was raised by the "good guys", you can see how he struggles with a weight that is not his own but of an entire race. And he still tries to be good!
My face scrunched up when I read some reviews saying that Torkel didn't apologize for not believing in the heroine and didn't even acknowledge her torture. Let me ask you this.
If the love of your life was paid to choose and marry you, how would you feel?
Like your boyfriend lied to you all this time and he was paid...
GOD! I'd be raging! And if I had insecurity issues it would be worse. So I get that Torkel feels betrayed. That he is disappointed and feels used. That he no longer trusted our heroin and that it took time for him to understand and believe her motives. Totally understandable!
And most of us girls would've been much more unforgiving in his shoes.
The sexy bits were great and the chemistry between Faith and Torkel dance between hot & sweet all the time. I was into it.
I would've liked a little bit more love and communication scenes, but it's okay.
One more thing I enjoyed, was the secondary characters and potential heroes in the following books. It had a Dohner, Laurann vibe without the world building.
Things I didn't enjoy...
The plot in this installment was fairly weak. And there were major plotholes everywhere.
I also disliked the lack of detail and world building. It's like the author herself was skimming while she wrote. Focusing on the relationship and some unnecessary conversations that didn't help the development of the story at all.
Faith... I hated Faith. One, she's stupid and easily manipulated.
Has no one told her not to trust strangers? What was she thinking?
And after you made the stupid mistake, couldn't she have come forward and told Torkel the truth before things got crazy?
No... She lies. Decides to hide things under a rug like dust and just lives a lie. Dishonesty is not a thing I can easily forgive. So its something I hated in Faith. Not only because she lies, but because she makes no effort to come clean with the person she loves. She is only thinking of herself...
Not of Torkel's feelings and how hurt he could be if someone else tells him.
And Faith is not evil. She's just stupid and thoughtless when it comes to life and the important stuff. I've seen more mature teenagers than this woman!
*sigh*
She definitely redeems herself when she pays for her mistakes. And I valued that stage of the character when she faces the consequences of her actions. Faith also needs more background, she's a definite 2D character in my book.
The story itself felt short and went a little bland at the end. I truly have no issue with fast-paced reads, but I really needed more development between these two characters.
I needed more redemption from her part. I needed her to do something gutsy at some point to make the story a little more epic. And I really needed Torkel to overcome his issues with insecurity and trust, which never happens.
The characters never come full circle and that's the major issue in this book.
To conclude this review... Its a good start for a series and has some refreshing points. A 3.0 Star is enough for this one. It's recommendable and enjoyable. Has room to improve and potential tools to be used in other books. So I dig this series and I'm looking forward to other heroines and their alien choices.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2024
DNF! Didn’t like the writing, very corny dialogue!
And to think that I used one of my credits to listen to it on Audible! Ugh 😑😒
And to think that I used one of my credits to listen to it on Audible! Ugh 😑😒
April 8, 2015
Stars: 3.5
Overall: Earth is over run with woman and for the past 20 years there has been a program where woman can purchase a ticket to go to other planets to find a husband. Faye has been saving up for years and finally gets her chance to find love. When she boards the plane she meets a really nice woman who helps her decide where she wants to go. When she gets to the planet, before leaving the aircraft a man approaches her and offers her money to pick a warrior that he claims to be a friend. Faye agrees and picks the warrior but before they can leave the last guy throws a fit and things get confusing. Torkel is beyond happen that he has finally found his chosen and he goes above and beyond to make her happy and to be confident in himself about it. After this point Torkel has a lot of failed missions with the slavers and Faye is attacked. She ends up getting taken by the slavers, but Torkel thinks he found information that links them to her in a negative way and his team ends up saving her by mistake. It takes sometime, but Torkel's heart is too filled with love with her to really let her go. In the end they get their HEA and than some.
Pros: I really loved Torkel's family and how they embraced Faye. His sister was a hoot and I loved how they picked on each other. I also like when Torkel found it in himself to forgive Faye for not telling him about the communicator and other things.
Cons: It really bothered me that Torkel was just going to leave Faye to rot and not search for her. I don't care what the woman did, but he should at least found her and brought her to justice if he thought that she was working against him.
Characters: Torkel & Faye
Page Turner: Yes & No
Series Cont: I'm not sure but I hope so!
Recommend: Yes
Overall: Earth is over run with woman and for the past 20 years there has been a program where woman can purchase a ticket to go to other planets to find a husband. Faye has been saving up for years and finally gets her chance to find love. When she boards the plane she meets a really nice woman who helps her decide where she wants to go. When she gets to the planet, before leaving the aircraft a man approaches her and offers her money to pick a warrior that he claims to be a friend. Faye agrees and picks the warrior but before they can leave the last guy throws a fit and things get confusing. Torkel is beyond happen that he has finally found his chosen and he goes above and beyond to make her happy and to be confident in himself about it. After this point Torkel has a lot of failed missions with the slavers and Faye is attacked. She ends up getting taken by the slavers, but Torkel thinks he found information that links them to her in a negative way and his team ends up saving her by mistake. It takes sometime, but Torkel's heart is too filled with love with her to really let her go. In the end they get their HEA and than some.
Pros: I really loved Torkel's family and how they embraced Faye. His sister was a hoot and I loved how they picked on each other. I also like when Torkel found it in himself to forgive Faye for not telling him about the communicator and other things.
Cons: It really bothered me that Torkel was just going to leave Faye to rot and not search for her. I don't care what the woman did, but he should at least found her and brought her to justice if he thought that she was working against him.
Characters: Torkel & Faye
Page Turner: Yes & No
Series Cont: I'm not sure but I hope so!
Recommend: Yes
March 23, 2015
I really enjoyed this story. I wasn't sure if I would after seeing the prominent negative reviews on Amazon. I'm glad to say that I read the book anyway.
Right from the beginning, I cared about what happened to the Hero. The obstacles he has dealt with are delineated right from the beginning and you root for him to find the love he's been hoping for. I have to admit that it took a little bit for me to care about the Heroine. I wasn't sure about her until the two really seemed to start bonding together.
Without giving away spoilers, the conflict between the couple was pretty heartbreaking for me. I don't usually cry over books and movies, but it did bring tears to my eyes. I managed to keep them from falling so my macho image is still in tact.
To sum up, it was an easy, enjoyable story. The couple is engaging, the sex is hot, and I really cared about the characters.
Note to the author: Pleez rite moar Jutak warrior storeez. Tank yew.
Right from the beginning, I cared about what happened to the Hero. The obstacles he has dealt with are delineated right from the beginning and you root for him to find the love he's been hoping for. I have to admit that it took a little bit for me to care about the Heroine. I wasn't sure about her until the two really seemed to start bonding together.
Without giving away spoilers, the conflict between the couple was pretty heartbreaking for me. I don't usually cry over books and movies, but it did bring tears to my eyes. I managed to keep them from falling so my macho image is still in tact.
To sum up, it was an easy, enjoyable story. The couple is engaging, the sex is hot, and I really cared about the characters.
Note to the author: Pleez rite moar Jutak warrior storeez. Tank yew.
July 21, 2017
The first book in the A World Beyond series by Michelle Howard. Faith who prefers to be called Faye has made the decision to leave earth and find a mate elsewhere. Women outnumber the men on earth and Faye wants love. She knows she won't find it on Earth. She ends up on Enotia and choses Torkel Alonson. Torkel is a elite warrior and this was his last year to find a mate. But there are those who feel Torkel doesn't need a mate and especially a coveted human one. Torkel was adopted as a baby. He was born a Marenian. Marenians make their living as slavers. Because of this Torkel is considered undesirable.
It was decent enough but didn't quite reach it's potential. It didn't grab me like I'd wanted it to. I may try this author again sometime because it wasn't a bad read.
It was decent enough but didn't quite reach it's potential. It didn't grab me like I'd wanted it to. I may try this author again sometime because it wasn't a bad read.
March 19, 2017
This one was a really surprisingly awesome read. I mean I had hoped it would be good, but I wasn't expecting certain aspects of this story to emotionally blow me away, but it did.
This is the first book to this series. And while it does open up doors for other characters to have their stories told, I'm still on the fence about diving into the other books. Simply because I felt this one was so good, I don't see how others could be better. Still deciding if I'll proceed further or not, but I HIGHLY recommend that if you're curious about any book in this series, please start here first.
Happy Reading :)
This is the first book to this series. And while it does open up doors for other characters to have their stories told, I'm still on the fence about diving into the other books. Simply because I felt this one was so good, I don't see how others could be better. Still deciding if I'll proceed further or not, but I HIGHLY recommend that if you're curious about any book in this series, please start here first.
Happy Reading :)
May 22, 2017
Got to chapter 17 and gave up. It's an okay, if a bit wooden start. It was the heroine's idiocy and naive hero which put me off. I was left under no illusion of how the story would go downhill rapidly. Having checked spoiler reviews I am relieved I didn't put myself through the inevitable frustration.
July 4, 2016
The narration on this one was excellent and the addition of limited sound enhancements was a nice touch. The story was good enough to get me interested in this world. I will more than likely continue this series. The only negative is that book 2 isn't on audible ye.
added-it
March 2, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/2/2021)! 🎁
December 24, 2024
I had a love hate relationship with both Torkel and Faith each for their own reasons, as well as the same reason on opposing sides.
Faith was pardon the pun incredibly faithful and was put through so much, while this hero Torkel was completely lacking in faith and barely did anything to prove himself this amazing title that cost him a match for so long.
I wanted to be able to cheer for Torkel and his teammates but they too lacked in a lot of ways that was beyond disappointing outside their bonding scenes with Faith.
Luckily the female characters redeemed the potential of this series for me.
I will be looking forward to reading the next installment with hopes that our author redeems the heroes next time around.
Faith was pardon the pun incredibly faithful and was put through so much, while this hero Torkel was completely lacking in faith and barely did anything to prove himself this amazing title that cost him a match for so long.
I wanted to be able to cheer for Torkel and his teammates but they too lacked in a lot of ways that was beyond disappointing outside their bonding scenes with Faith.
Luckily the female characters redeemed the potential of this series for me.
I will be looking forward to reading the next installment with hopes that our author redeems the heroes next time around.
May 14, 2015
In a future where women heavily outnumber men it's possible for a price to travel to other planets to find compatible males . Faye is determined not to remain alone and simply wants a family of her own and hopefully love. Time is running out though as once a woman hits thirty they are not eligible for the programme but finally Faye gets the clearance she needs and so begins her journey.
Torkel was adopted as a baby and brought up in the ways of Enotia and even though he has proved himself as a brave warrior many don't trust him because of his heritage. Torkel has decided that this is the last time he will present himself for " choosing" and takes his final walk on the sands but Torkel the unwanted is about to get his dreams come true when Faye picks him but not everyone is happy and they are both about to be tested in so many ways!
There are lots of books that have this theme of human females going off to find alien partners and when done well they can be fun reads. I think the author has done quite a good job in making Torkel come to life but there are quite a few supporting characters introduced and although I'm sure they are intended for future books I did think maybe less is more! The interactions though allowed the author to inject humour as these males are not quite sure what to make of a human female . This is sci fi romance so of course it's a sexy story and the heroine Faye is not afraid to embrace her desires and luckily Torkel is very much onboard with that!
If I had any quibbles with this story it's probably the final third that felt a little too much for this reader. No spoilers here exactly but the heroine goes through so much (too much?) and it simply felt wrong. Add in Torkeks reaction and no it just didn't work for me. There's nothing wrong with dark themes in books but I much prefer balance and our hero failed big time in this. Would I read more? Yes I would as I enjoyed the pure escapism and the ending does allow for more but I sincerely hope that the author gives her readers far less injustice because some things left a bad taste in my mouth. Bottom line it was fun, quick, sexy but the heroine was naive and the hero needed a good shake!
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
Torkel was adopted as a baby and brought up in the ways of Enotia and even though he has proved himself as a brave warrior many don't trust him because of his heritage. Torkel has decided that this is the last time he will present himself for " choosing" and takes his final walk on the sands but Torkel the unwanted is about to get his dreams come true when Faye picks him but not everyone is happy and they are both about to be tested in so many ways!
There are lots of books that have this theme of human females going off to find alien partners and when done well they can be fun reads. I think the author has done quite a good job in making Torkel come to life but there are quite a few supporting characters introduced and although I'm sure they are intended for future books I did think maybe less is more! The interactions though allowed the author to inject humour as these males are not quite sure what to make of a human female . This is sci fi romance so of course it's a sexy story and the heroine Faye is not afraid to embrace her desires and luckily Torkel is very much onboard with that!
If I had any quibbles with this story it's probably the final third that felt a little too much for this reader. No spoilers here exactly but the heroine goes through so much (too much?) and it simply felt wrong. Add in Torkeks reaction and no it just didn't work for me. There's nothing wrong with dark themes in books but I much prefer balance and our hero failed big time in this. Would I read more? Yes I would as I enjoyed the pure escapism and the ending does allow for more but I sincerely hope that the author gives her readers far less injustice because some things left a bad taste in my mouth. Bottom line it was fun, quick, sexy but the heroine was naive and the hero needed a good shake!
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
January 9, 2016
Good concept. Story opened great. Interesting plot. Ssomeone pays her to pick the guy she ends up with; then blackmails her into spying on where hubby and his team will hit next. So far so good.
She gets found out, and hubby is upset, everyone is upset. Then she gets kidnapped, and tortured, and hubby thinks, good riddance. Actually, he thinks she ran, and when she is retrieved, doesn't believe her. Hubby and team actually went to retrieve Lindsay (h's friend) whose powerful husbands (politicians or sth), want her back.
So... too much torture.
Why 2 stars and not 1? I liked the beginning. Someone please rewrite it half way onwards! Apologies to the author, Michelle Howard; this is rather harsh. But her other books are angsty, bordering on torture (emotional, if nothing else), but not really this bad. This was just beyond bounds. And dropped her out of my to-read author list. Oh well, maybe I'll go read her other series.
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update: the reason i'd read this was because i read King's Revenge (2nd book in the series) first. and loved it!! it was absolutely amazing. and... you don't have to have read this to make sense of it. it works well (better) as a standalone.
edit: I got the series mixed up! King's Revenge is set in a completely different world. I never read the 2nd book of this series (Lindsey's Rescue) because menage isn't my thing. And I never read Arak's book bcos I was just soured of the series :|. Will go read the Warlord series again :D
She gets found out, and hubby is upset, everyone is upset. Then she gets kidnapped, and tortured, and hubby thinks, good riddance. Actually, he thinks she ran, and when she is retrieved, doesn't believe her. Hubby and team actually went to retrieve Lindsay (h's friend) whose powerful husbands (politicians or sth), want her back.
So... too much torture.
Why 2 stars and not 1? I liked the beginning. Someone please rewrite it half way onwards! Apologies to the author, Michelle Howard; this is rather harsh. But her other books are angsty, bordering on torture (emotional, if nothing else), but not really this bad. This was just beyond bounds. And dropped her out of my to-read author list. Oh well, maybe I'll go read her other series.
-------------------
update: the reason i'd read this was because i read King's Revenge (2nd book in the series) first. and loved it!! it was absolutely amazing. and... you don't have to have read this to make sense of it. it works well (better) as a standalone.
edit: I got the series mixed up! King's Revenge is set in a completely different world. I never read the 2nd book of this series (Lindsey's Rescue) because menage isn't my thing. And I never read Arak's book bcos I was just soured of the series :|. Will go read the Warlord series again :D
February 4, 2015
3.5 stars!!
I really enjoyed this and think it was a good start to the series. Action from the first page and a few quirks along the way to make it different from it's peers.
In the beginning I thought Faith was totally dumb and basically to stupid to live but I have to admit she grew on me and redeemed herself at about 60%. Torkel and his buddies are fantastic .... I can't wait to read the other guys stories, especially Kyele!!
Hurry up with the next book please - I need to know WHO the baddie is lol!!
February 22, 2015
I cannot be but disappointed with Torkel's story. I got a preview of him and I wanted more.
Michelle Howard, you really have a great imagination, why limit to short stories?
Michelle Howard, you really have a great imagination, why limit to short stories?
March 16, 2020
I was pretty excited about this book and it was mostly ok. But the heroine got on my nerves so much, I can only rate this book 3 stars.
Faith Reid decides to leave Earth and join the Singles Program and find a husband. Luckily for her, Earth women are very much appreciated in the Universe. She settles for Torkel, who's some sort of Navy SEAL / Special Forces commander.
Faith Reid decides to leave Earth and join the Singles Program and find a husband. Luckily for her, Earth women are very much appreciated in the Universe. She settles for Torkel, who's some sort of Navy SEAL / Special Forces commander.
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