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The Prime Awakening Trilogy #1

The Awakening: Anaya's Why Choose Alien Romance

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If you think marrying a brilliant billionaire after only three months would be the craziest thing I’d ever do… you’d be wrong.

Because my husband isn’t human.

He’s Rhuzhanian—an alien who has spent decades searching Earth for me. And now that he’s finally found me, I’m being pulled into a world where desire, intimacy, and connection are woven into every part of life.

Including the bonding rituals.

The deeper I fall into their seductive off-world culture, the harder it becomes to separate pleasure from trust… especially when long-buried secrets begin to surface.

Because I’m not just a wife.

I may be the biological key to saving an entire species.

And I can’t stop wondering whether I was truly chosen for love… or for what my body can give them.

Tropes: Aliens, Off World, Why Choose, Reverse Harem, Romance, Spice, Alien Romance, Fated Mates, Breeding, Spicy Sci-fi, Poly, Erotic , Steamy, Multiple Partners, Strong Female Lead
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

If you love Ruby Dixon or Tana Stone, you'll love Lara Lorens.

179 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 1, 2026

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Lara Lorens

9 books9 followers

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5 stars
59 (51%)
4 stars
42 (36%)
3 stars
9 (7%)
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4 (3%)
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1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
Profile Image for Katarzyna.
150 reviews5 followers
February 1, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️

Thank you to Lara for an ARC!

This was a spicy fun time! We follow Anaya, a fencing instructor, who marries Vedin, a biotech researcher, not knowing that he is actually an alien from another planet who sought her out specifically for her DNA, a fact that he withholds from her for most of the book. When she accidentally travels through a portal to his planet, she gets thrown into a massive culture shock, especially given the carnal nature of his people. The story evolves into a why choose situation and is full of toe-curling spice. This was an insta-lust/insta-love situation, but I didn’t mind because I loved the spice that it brought and it suited the nature of Vedin‘s people. That cliffhanger ending has me needing book two ASAP!
Profile Image for N.
366 reviews18 followers
February 1, 2026
Anaya is finally getting a turn of luck for the better. And she is about to learn that not everything is as it seems. Her husband is a special kind. He has a strong interest and isn't revealing everything. Even with a couple of minor drawbacks, she isn't ready to let her good thing go. That's when things get interesting. I enjoyed this spicy sci-fi reverse harem romance.
Profile Image for Püppët.
85 reviews3 followers
September 7, 2026
So this is probably the second alien romance I’ve ever read, and despite it saying it was a reverse harem, it didn’t really feel like one. However, the story caught my attention even if it did move a little quickly, and I actually wouldn’t mind reading the next installment in the series! It was definitely an experience 😅✨
Profile Image for Tonika.
373 reviews6 followers
February 5, 2026
Phenomenal world building absolutely loved it! The plot excellent, the characters are dynamic and personable.

Alaya FMC fencing instructor
Vedin MMC alien scientist

Are you kidding this is how you end book one. You left me flustered and flabbergasted with so much hanging in the air OMG way to spike a ladies anxiety!

It was spectacular, I cannot absolutely do not want to wait for book 2 to see how this all plays out.

Key points in no particular order:
- sentient natural Ai alien planet
- infertility
- bonded mates
- manipulation
- MFM
- pulsing ridges
- portal travel
- fencing
- lies and deceit
- spicy 5/5
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
21.3k reviews369 followers
February 7, 2026
Anaya and Vedin . . .

Anaya Raymond is apparently a very special female. She is lured by Vedin Ashcroft, a biotechnology researcher, whose plan is to officially meet Anaya, make her fall for him, then bond with her before she can figure out what is really going on. Then they will return to his planet to save his species. Anaya owns her own gym where she teaches fencing. So he hosts a fencing tournament at his huge estate to draw the fencing instructor into his life as she attends the event. He even provides a former Olympian to give her a worthy opponent when she steps forward to participate. Her body is 3 moves ahead as she anticipates what her opponent's moves will be. He manages to intrigue her and they marry after only a few short months... and she doesn't even suspect she just married a Rhuzhanian alien who wants to ultimately take her home to his planet! Apparently they need her DNA.

I loved Anaya's strong character. I was disappointed that Vedin wasn't completely honest with her from the start. Chances are that she would have gone along with him even knowing the truth, but not telling her at all felt cold and dishonest. How will she react when a portal sends her to his planet and her husband is willing to share her? Will she enjoy the experience, the acceptance, the feel of belonging in a family? Can she also accept what she finally discovers is happening to her physically... and why he doesn't seem "surprised"? Or will she figure that he has never really cared for her at all but just used her for her rare "Prime marker/compatible species" DNA? Or is the answer even stranger than that?
Profile Image for matti rubi.
51 reviews2 followers
April 23, 2026
This book was definitely a surprise! You have aliens, portal magic, save the species, sharing, and so much more.

I enjoy the book quite a bit. I’m shocked how it ended. It was evenly paced and the spice spread out a bit.

There is 3rd act break up
Sharing with others that’s not the partner but they are present
Manipulation
Lying.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,765 reviews9 followers
February 19, 2026
This was an interesting start to the trilogy. I liked the plot and the alien world. I felt that the pace was fast at the beginning, then slowed down in the middle before ramping up at the end into a twist and a huge cliffhanger. I can't wait to find out what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nicole.
290 reviews9 followers
January 30, 2026
This was such a fun why choose read! I loved Anaya and the roller coaster she ends up going through in this book! Vedin is has his own secrets and stories. I can’t wait for what’s next!
Profile Image for Candee.
109 reviews2 followers
February 3, 2026
This book was very fast paced and had some really good spice. If you love alien books and all there glory this book is perfect for you. A billionaire husband that is absolutely obsessed with the main female character what is more to love, well except the fact he’s an alien. But I loved the love story the characters have and just so much love and caring between them. There are some elements definitely leaving you wondering what is wrong and what’s the real problem in the story. And the cliffhanger is amazing. I love books with cliffhangers and this one was definitely one that took my breath away.
1,020 reviews12 followers
February 1, 2026
At first glance The Awakening is a love story with encompassing sensuality. But there’s so much more. Anaya, the fmc is strong and independent, attacking challenges head on. But even she has to pause sometimes. Make a choice. Hope it’s the right one. At the end there’s a cliffhanger! OMG readers, I dislike them totally but this cliffhanger is the bomb! I did not see that coming. Brilliant writing!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
91 reviews7 followers
February 2, 2026
it was a good short read. it is fantasy with advanced technology. a why choose story. has a little spice and ends on a cliffhanger.
1,143 reviews4 followers
February 8, 2026
Pulsing
Vedin is so hot and pulsing. Pulsing veins, pulsing……..how could Anaya not be pulled to him. Plus he sees her, really sees her. But what will she do when she really sees him?! Sees what he really is!
Profile Image for Chrissy.
1,018 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2026
This book was an absolute page-turner! The characters were so well-developed and the plot kept me on the edge of my seat. I found myself completely immersed in Anaya's world, and I couldn't put it down until I finished. The author did a fantastic job of creating a captivating and emotional story that I will remember for a long time.
Profile Image for Andi Downs.
1,494 reviews14 followers
March 16, 2026
Felt I'd better read this after seeing that the next book will be out soon. I will also say I hate cliff hangers, but in light on the next book coming, I can accept a short wait.
Loved all the characters but felt for Anaya. To fall in love and find out all wasn't quite as it seemed. Loved Vedin, but despite his love for her, he should have been honest with her. His friends were lovely and enjoyed the 3some! So hot!! 🌶🌶😍😍 Now I'm looking forward to the next book.
I also purchased a copy of this book. :)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for kymagirl.
7,811 reviews87 followers
February 8, 2026
He seduced her to save his species. She gave him her heart before she knew who he really was.

Anaya thinks marrying a brilliant billionaire after three months is impulsive. Finding out he isn't human pushes her into a reality she never saw coming. Vedin has been watching Earth for years, waiting for her, because she's the only one who can change the future of his people. What starts as obsession turns into something he can’t control.

On Rhuzhan, nothing stays skin deep. The planet pulses with life, and every touch means something more. Vedin opens Anaya to new ways of feeling, of connecting, of being wanted. Nylsar’s steady strength and Theron’s raw hunger draw her in too, until she no longer wants to choose. She wants it all, and they want her just as much.

But even the deepest connection can't survive every secret. When Anaya uncovers what really brought her to Rhuzhan, everything shifts. Her body is changing. Her past was never fully hers. And the choice between escape and becoming something new might already be gone. She’ll have to decide what’s worth holding onto, and what she’s willing to become.

Anaya grows from guarded and grounded to powerful and painfully aware. Vedin starts out cold and strategic but becomes something real, breaking open under the weight of what he feels. Their bond burns hot but carries cracks beneath the surface, tested by truth, fear, and the struggle for control. It’s messy, raw, and unforgettable.

A steamy, high heat, alien–human, why choose romance with fated mates, secret identity, betrayal, body transformation, and forced proximity, exploring trust, autonomy, intimacy, identity, survival, power, and connection. It’s about falling for the ones who change you, craving the touch that undoes you, and choosing yourself when nothing is what it seemed.

Note: The first book in "The Prime Awakening Trilogy" - ends on a cliffhanger.

The Elevator Pitch: A high-heat alien romance where a woman is seduced into marriage, only to discover her husband is not human and her body holds the key to saving his dying species. As she’s drawn into a world of erotic ritual, deep emotional bonds, and irreversible transformation, trust fractures and desire becomes a battlefield. It’s dark, sensual, and emotionally charged with betrayal, autonomy, and connection at its core.
1,391 reviews14 followers
February 13, 2026
Rich Worldbuilding and a Spicy Reverse Harem Romance

This alien reverse harem novel starts off relatively tame but doesn’t take long to turn up the heat. Once the story gets going, the spice level definitely rises, making it a satisfying read for those who enjoy passionate, multi-partner romances.
What really stood out to me, though, wasn’t just the romance—it was the worldbuilding. The alien biology is distinctly different from humans, and the author clearly put thought into how those differences would realistically affect relationships, attraction, and social structures. Their culture is equally well-developed, with customs and expectations that feel unique rather than just slightly altered versions of human norms.
That cultural and biological depth makes the story far more interesting than a typical reverse harem setup. The dynamic between the characters isn’t just about attraction; it’s also about navigating unfamiliar traditions and perspectives. Watching the human female main character react to these differences—sometimes with confusion, sometimes with curiosity, and often with strength—adds another compelling layer to the narrative.
Her responses to the new environment and the developing relationships feel authentic and engaging, which helps ground the more fantastical elements of the story.
Overall, this is a very enjoyable alien reverse harem romance. It blends rich worldbuilding with escalating spice and a fascinating cultural clash, making it both entertaining and immersive. If you enjoy sci-fi romance with depth and heat, this one is definitely worth picking up.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
275 reviews
July 22, 2026
Anaya Raymond is a world renowned fencer, highly disciplined and structured in her life, but still craves the love of her family. While at a fencing tournament she meets and falls in love with Vedin Ashcroft, a Nobel Peace Prize recipient and biotechnology researcher. Unbeknownst to her,  Vedin has been searching for Anaya for a very long time. Finally meeting her, his plan is to take her back to his home-- only he's not human and he's not from earth. He's from the planet Rhuzhan and Anaya contains the genetic make-up to save his species from eventual extinction.  What will happen when Anaya finds out about Vedin's secret mission and manipulation? Will she forgive him or will she attempt to return to earth to continue out her life without the man (or rather alien) whom she's fallen in love with? 


The Awakening is the first book in a trilogy written by author Lara Lorens. It's a story that is depicted in such a way as to leave the reader feeling like they are present in every scene. This book has so many wonderful qualities-- strong FMC; adoring and intriguing MMC; unique plot with vivid imagery and plenty of twists and turns; a why choose theme that is sure to leave the reader blushing and feeling a tad warm.... this book is the perfect summertime read! I'm already off to start reading the next book in the series. I'm addicted!.
140 reviews1 follower
July 28, 2026
This is a High Heat Alien Romance with Friends with Benefits
Anaya Raymond is a fencer who now teaches fencing to kids. She is invited to an exhibition at the home of Vedin Ashcroft. Vedin is a millionaire biotechnology researcher.
It's love and lust at first sight for Anaya and Vedin
3 months in they are married. In the middle of their honeymoon bliss, Anaya finds a portal that transports her to another planet where she discovers Vedin is not actually a human! It's a beautiful planet where the technology anticipates everyone's needs, and women's pleasure is paramount. So Vedin is committed to Anaya, but she can have pleasure with any other people. Everything seems to be perfect for our couple.
Unfortunately, Anaya finds out that their relationship didn't begin quite the way Vedin had told her and as secrets do - it threatens their relationship. Anaya feels like her parents used her, and now her husband has used her.
It does end on a bit of a cliffhanger but the next book is available.

I'm updating my review after reading the other 2 books in this series. Wow - Books 2 and 3 are evem better. Do read them! Taken together this is a really fun series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
121 reviews4 followers
February 8, 2026
An engaging and thoughtful romp thru an alien/human relationship and potential race saving consequences for the participants. Xanya-a human woman fencing instructor is introduced to Viden after a demonstration at a fundraiser. Rich and brilliant he quickly inserts himself into a whirlwind romance and marriage that seems to meet both their needs. After a quick honeymoon and the eventual return to their new shared domicile, things start to happen when she literally walks right thru a portal and is transported to another planet Rhuzhan. This circumstance leads to meeting some of her husband's scientific friends who happen to be purple and horned as is her husband to her eye- opening surprise. These events intertwined with a lot of hot erotica build to a densely detailed back story of intriguing world-building that drives this first part of an upcoming trilogy. The story is a quick opening dive into a thought provoking and sexy tale that is definitely worth the time. The author was kind enough to provide me with an ARC for honest review.
Profile Image for Iluvbks.
702 reviews6 followers
February 19, 2026
This book ends with a cliff hanger. The story is very interesting. She comes from a wealthy family who thinks she is never good enough. He comes from another planet who has been looking for her for over 50 years. Their explosive relationship is pure love. Almost an instant love. He does on her. Loves her completely. All this changes when she goes looking for him one morning. This story has a great plot. You can see the heartbreak coming for her. I liked how he tried to ease her into knowing why he met her. But she reacts like you think she would. The other characters are such a big part of the story. The idea of your whole world being controlled by AI is strange and scary. The concept of no money needed - due to everything being provided for you by your home- is strange. The descriptions and flow of the story are really good and kept the story interesting. I am not a fan of cliffhangers but now I am vested and will need to continue this story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
910 reviews3 followers
September 13, 2026
The Awakening: Anaya’s Why Choose Alien Romance is book 1 of The Prime Awakening Trilogy series. This was the first in a very interesting series. This book is very interesting, and I can’t wait to read the next two books and see how things go. It starts with Vedin, he has been looking for a particular woman for a while, and once he got eyes on her, he slowly figured out what her likes were and made sure to have her encounter him. She has a business teaching fencing to students. Anaya is very strict in her teaching and in her life, born with money, but always isolated. Once they finally meet, he has a plan, but isn’t sure what the future is, but he must have her. The storyline is wonderful and unique; the characters are multi-layered and realistic. This is a series to not pass, it’s good and so much pulls you in and keeps your attention. Make sure you grab this book and the rest of the series and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Deziree.
5 reviews1 follower
February 2, 2026
Anaya meets Vedin, a brilliant scientist, and believes her luck has finally turned. She’s genuinely happy with how her life is unfolding. Their chance encounter at an event sparks an instant connection, and after just three months of knowing each other, they get married.
One day, while searching for her husband in their mansion, Anaya stumbles upon a portal that transports her to an entirely new planet. There, she finds Vedin—but not as she remembers him. He isn’t human at all; he is Rhuzhanian. Despite the shock, Anaya loves him deeply enough to accept his true form, along with his friends and his world.
However, dark secrets are being kept from her. When the truth finally comes to light, Anaya is left questioning whether she can continue her life with Vedin and everything that comes with him. The story ends on a gripping cliffhanger, and I’m eagerly awaiting the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,439 reviews33 followers
February 3, 2026
This novella is dual POV, and an interesting sci fi romance serial beginning between Anaya, the female human ex-Olympic fencer lead, and Vedin, the male alien bio specialist lead -the story is advertised as why choose but seems more like relationship open for her. I enjoyed the non-romance plot and the intricacies of it; I am definitely curious to see where the author takes it through the remaining two books. I empathised with Anaya’s grief over her family of origin and enjoyed her willingness to take a risk on the safe bet that Vedin appeared to be. I empathised with Vedin’s concern for his people, and his need to balance that with his emotions for Anaya. I found the cliffhanger ending interesting, though I’m not typically a fan of cliffhangers, and I’m curious to see where the author takes the story.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
55 reviews1 follower
March 12, 2026
When capable and independent (but unlucky in love) Anaya meets Vedin, a kind, brilliant billionaire scientist, she falls head over heels. Although she questions how quickly and deeply she has fallen, marrying him after just a few months, she never expects to discover that he is actually from the planet Rhuzhan and has been searching for her for years in the hope of saving his species from extinction.

This was a fantastic start to the series. It is incredibly well written, packing a surprising amount of story, setting, and world-building into a relatively short book. Despite the length, the narrative is well crafted that and I felt genuinely connected to the characters. The story balances relationship development, plot, and a good dose of spice, while also setting up the next instalment perfectly. If you enjoy main characters who are a little… alien, you will definitely have fun with this one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
251 reviews2 followers
March 14, 2026
The Awakening: Anaya's Why Choose Alien Romance is an exciting and imaginative start to The Prime Awakening Trilogy. The story combines science fiction elements with romance, creating a unique world that quickly draws the reader in.

Anaya is a compelling heroine, and her journey of discovery adds emotional depth to the story. The “why choose” dynamic introduces intriguing character interactions, each bringing a different energy and personality to the developing relationships. The mix of mystery, tension, and romance keeps the story engaging and makes it easy to keep turning the pages.

Readers who enjoy alien romance, strong heroines, and stories with complex relationship dynamics will likely enjoy this book. It’s a promising beginning to the trilogy and leaves you curious to see how the story will unfold in the next installment.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
101 reviews
April 10, 2026
This story delivers a captivating blend of heat, magic, and emotional turmoil.

Anya and Vedin are deeply in love, but their relationship is shadowed by the secrets Vedin keeps and the manipulations he believes are necessary. Anya stands out as a confident, capable heroine, while Vedin is torn between his devotion to her and his loyalty to his planet.

The worldbuilding is absolutely amazing—lush, immersive, and full of vivid detail that pulls you straight into the story. Every twist, turn, and revelation adds another layer to the tension between them, making their romance feel both fragile and powerful.

Filled with spice, romance, secrets, and high‑impact revelations, this book balances emotional depth with an intriguing, magical world. A compelling read for anyone who loves fantasy romance with complexity, heat, and heart.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
183 reviews
June 12, 2026
The angst, the flirting (all characters), the background and world building, the plot, the betrayal, the spice - let me start, loved it

Girl (Anaya) meets boy (Vedin), he sweeps her off her feet and marries her within 3 months.
They are perfect for each other, or so it seems.

No. It is not. It is all smoke and mirrors.

She discovers little by little there are white lies/hidden reasons why he married her.
"White lie no. 1" - He is not human, he is an alien.
"White lie no. 2" - He shows her his alien world and it is all perfect, utopia, or so it seems.
There are more!
He did not tell her the whole truth from the beginning due to the importance of the mission + did not want to lose her

Ends in the deepest, most mysterious cliffhanger that will make you jump to book 2

Yes, read this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
31 reviews
July 25, 2026
This one was wild from start to finish. Anaya thinks she's marrying an ordinary biotech researcher, but Vedin has been hiding a pretty huge secret… he's actually an alien, and his interest in her goes far beyond romance. After an unexpected trip through a portal lands her on his home planet, she's forced to adapt to an entirely different world with customs that are far more intimate than anything she's ever known.

From there, the story leans into a why-choose romance packed with plenty of steamy moments. The romance moves at lightning speed, but it fit the story and the culture of Vedin's people, so it never felt out of place for me. If you're looking for a sci-fi romance with high heat, lots of tension, and an ending that will leave you desperate for more, this definitely delivers. That cliffhanger had me immediately reaching for book two.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
177 reviews5 followers
February 5, 2026
This sci-fi romance centers on an MMC from another planet who is desperate to save his dying world—and believes he’s finally found the solution in a woman from Earth. Anaya, a world-class fencer and refreshingly strong FMC, is invited to an exhibition where she meets Vedin. Their whirlwind romance leads to marriage after just three months, all without Anaya knowing her new husband is actually an alien.

The story delivers plenty of sexy scenes while still offering a solid plot. The author does a great job with descriptive narration, especially when it comes to Vedin’s planet, and the characters feel believable despite the otherworldly premise. Anaya stands out as a confident, capable heroine, which I always appreciate.

If you’re into monster romance, don’t mind sharing, and enjoy strong female leads paired with a steamy storyline, this one is definitely worth checking out.
Profile Image for Sandra Sanches.
773 reviews22 followers
March 25, 2026
A fast paced first part of a series.
Aliens live on Earth looking for a cure for infertility.
Anaya,a fencing champion has something in her ADN that catches the eye of Vedin ,an alien scientist.
He stalkes her,studies and seduces her and three monthes later they're married.
By accident she finds the portal for their world and starts to unravel their secrets.
Treated like a godess by over-sexed aliens who like to share,she uncovers more than she can handle and jumps through the portal but ....
I liked the premisse of the story but things happen too fast,she accepts all the alieness too easy and,in my opinion kept me from a full engagment perhaps because it was a short first part.
Even so,I’m curious to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews