Lieutenant Commander Ailith Hardin has a problem with authority.
It's not her non-regulation gunslinger hat and quick-draw holster that got her transferred three times in nine months. It's her habit of treating orders like suggestions and regulations like punchlines that has made her the most decorated—and most unwanted—officer in the Alliance Fleet.
Captain Aris Thorn has a problem with Security Chiefs.
Five candidates have walked into his office. Five have walked out—or ran. The crew whispers that the position is cursed, that something about their enigmatic Captain drives good officers to desperation.
Now Hardin faces Captain Aris Thorn—A man who knows the regulations like how regular people know how to breathe.
But when she strolls into Thorn's office wearing that infamous hat, something unexpected happens. Instead of the usual ten-minute rejection, they engage in a battle of wits that lasts nearly an hour. For the first time in years, someone isn't afraid of him. For the first time since leaving the super secret squirrel land of classified military operations, someone appreciates her particular brand of controlled chaos.
The ANS Dominion is bound for the outer rim—pirate territory where ships disappear and crews are sold into slavery. In a region where the Alliance's enemies use brainwashing and torture. But as the ship ventures deeper into dangerous space on a mission to deliver much needed medical aid, the real threat may not be the pirates waiting in the void.
It might be the growing attraction between a Captain with dark secrets and a Security Chief who refuses to be broken.
Some rules are meant to be bent. Some authority is meant to be challenged. And some partnerships are forged in the space between insubordination and respect.
This book was gifted to me by the author as an ARC
“I could happily drown in her eyes. In her.”
Military meets sci-fi Space Strong FMC Multiple POVs Corruption Psychological experiments Trauma PTSD Secrets Manipulation Spice Rumors
Fast paced and engaging. A story that will suck you in and keep you coming back for more. I can’t wait for the next books in this series!
A strong, stubborn, brilliant, female high ranking officer, who despises the formality of the military. Clashes with the strict, by the book regimented male captain of the ship. Despite their stark differences, they are drawn to one another.
Will they be able to fight attraction to keep a professional relationship all while manning a ship with threats all around?
Was lucky enough to do an ARC for Bloodlines of the Void and I loved it! When Lieutenant Commander Ailith Harden is sent to Captain Aris Thorn, she is the sixth to be assigned the position after five before her couldn’t make the cut. Ailith’s disdain for unnecessary regulation paired with her skills and success in the Alliance Fleet make her both a handful, but also desirable as an officer. Aris, who is a rigid, no-nonsense type of leader, is immediately drawn to Ailith when she shows no fear, and instead of backing down, demonstrates her wits, bravery, and skills. As Ailith adjusts to life in her new position, Aris finds himself conflicted as he attempts to navigate the pull he feels toward Ailith.
This story is at its heart a romance, but also comes with all of the adventure and action of space fantasy. The world building here is excellent, with enough intricacy to immerse you but without being overcomplicated and difficult to follow. The pacing and action were spot-on, allowing the romance to shine through while also maintaining the action and intrigue that drives the plot. The story addresses complex themes like medical and military trauma, without glossing over them and shedding a much-needed light on how these experiences can manifest into what drives a character.
The best part of this book for me was hands-down Ailith herself. Ailith is an FMC with heart, personality, and integrity. She keeps you on your toes but also rooting for her every step of the way. What I love about her is that she is totally genuine and true to herself at all times. The pairing between Ailith and Aris is perfectly balanced and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for them!
Bloodlines of the Void absolutely blindsided me in the best way. It’s been a long time since I finished a book and immediately felt personally offended there wasn’t more waiting for me. I actually checked to make sure I hadn’t missed pages because I was not ready to leave these characters behind.
Ailith and Aris are instantly one of my favorite sci-fi pairings—two officers who should clash at every turn but somehow fit together perfectly. Ailith’s dry humor and weaponized professionalism had me laughing constantly, and the running idea that people feel emotionally attacked by how professionally she salutes is honestly iconic.
As the first book in a series, there’s a lot of world building and a large cast that doesn’t fully click into place yet, but it feels very intentional. You can already tell pieces are being set up for something much bigger. The story has a Star Trek-style sci-fi feel, but with more tension, sharper banter, darker edges, and an addictive slow-burn dynamic underneath it all.
And that ending? Jaw on the floor. I immediately went searching for the next book because I need answers immediately.
A huge and heartfelt thank you to the author for letting me read this book so early! Now please go write book two!!!
Overall the story was good. Definitely an interesting storyline. It did get a little confusing at times. In my personal opinion, I think if it had been written in first person POV it would have been better. There were a few instances in the story that felt unnecessary, like not quite sure why they were included...but maybe those will be integral for the next book. Nonetheless the book was pretty good and I am curious how it'll play out. The ending ... It ended on a cliffhanger that left me confused. It was abrupt and not conventional. I have no idea what was happening in the cliffhanger. But again, the next book should straighten it out. I'd give a rating of 3.75 but since that's not possible, I rounded up instead because I don't think it deserves a 3 rating.
If you love a heroine who refuses to bend the knee, this one delivers. The FMC is an absolute force—I loved her "no crap" attitude and her constant insubordination. Put her opposite a hot authority figure MMC, who is yearning for her, and the tension is definitely there.
However, the pacing dragged it down a bit. A few chapters felt unnecessary, taking up valuable page time that could have gone to the romance. I desperately needed more development and spice on the two main characters rather than the fillers. But maybe all of this tension is building up to a big boom for book #2.
This is an amazing read! I loved the strong female main character. She made me laugh and celebrate her "take no sh*t" attitude. The characters were complex and wonderful. I loved some and hated others. Gave me so many feels. Loved the Star Trek vibe. And the ending! Ahhh! I can see this series going on for several more books. I can't say enough good things about this book. I cannot wait for book 2. Devin Vandriel is great!
Advanced copy review- I am still trying to process what I read and how it ended!
I really enjoyed the book. I give it 4.25 to 4.5. It was great paced and well written that had my emotions all over the place. The story was filled with so much intensity and drama. The dynamics between the MMC and FMC were amazing and fun to watch! I loved all the side characters but there were a few of them I just wanted to throat punch. The way the book ended blew my mind! BOTV 2, I’m waiting for you!!!
From start to finish, this masterfully written book has everything. Drama, love interests, insubordination. The characters bring their own style and sense of danger throughout and each creates a power dynamic that makes the book amazing. I can’t wait to read the next book when it comes out!!!