The Awakening: Anaya's Why Choose Alien Romance

The Prime Awakening Trilogy #1

by Lara Lorens

You'd think marrying a brilliant billionaire after only knowing him for three months would be the craziest thing I'd ever do.

You'd be wrong.

Turns out my husband isn't human. He's Rhuzhanian, and he's been looking for me on Earth for decades to seduce and take me back to his planet with him.

Now that he has me, he's sharing me with his alien friends and my body responds in ways I can't control—and I don't want it to stop.

I'm falling for them. All of them. Becoming one of them.

Then I find out he never loved me—he needed my genetics to save his dying species, and I hate him for it.

Alien romance, reverse harem, fated mates, breeding, why choose
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Trilogy

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

Genres: Science Fiction Romance

165 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 1, 2026

Reviews

[Katarzyna · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.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!

[N · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Tonika · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Candee · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Kay Mack · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[matti rubi · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Brooke Ferguson · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

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?

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

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!

[Ladnamal · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Teresa R · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Chrissy · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Andi Downs · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[kymagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Ingrid · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Robert Bollinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Iluvbks · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Deziree · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Tima · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.

[Plottwistpending · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Catherine Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Susan Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Sandra Sanches · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.

[Kayla Garcie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t really know what I expected going into this book and I’m still not sure to be honest so let’s just say it’s very interesting so far.

I like Anayas character, though I do wish the poor girl would catch a break. She’s super resilient and composed, I mean if I found out my husband was a purple alien with horns I doubt I’d be so calm.

I’m still slightly confused with the dynamics of the relationships I know Vedin is her husband but I’m not sure if she’s actually taken more aliens into her harem? I guess that’s something for us to find out in the next book.
Although I’m all for kicking Vedin out of whatever relationship they have right now. That man is well and truly in the dog house and has a lot of making up to do.

Let’s hope our new red alien friends are a bit more truthful and trustworthy than our purple ones!.

[Missgotty · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a slow build alien romance with lust but little romance. Unfortunately, the characters have no depth to their personalities and the couple don't really have any real chemistry. Anaya doesn't blink at the fact that her husband's an alien, she just accepts it and quickly moves on. There's spice, it's ok, but mostly you're just waiting for Vedin to tell his wife what's going on, and it's a long drawn out affair. Once the wife gets to the alien planet, the progress of the story stalls in place for a long time, only shifting right at the very end when revelations come to light. Then the book ends on a severe cliffhanger which I'm not a fan of.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Earth Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is wonderfully written. The spice is pure steamy spice. The plot is wonderful. Loved all the characters. And especially enjoyed the planet Rhuzhan. Where Vedin comes from.
I could totally get very comfortable on their planet. It would be a total dream come true. Wink wink. LoL 🤗💜
With a cliffhanger that leaves you all twisted up inside wanting to scream. Noooo!
This is my first book by Lara and I will definitely be reading more of her books. I truly love how she writes her stories.
So all of you Alien Romance lovers, this is a must read.
And Lara please I need the next book asap. I have to know.
Enjoy everyone, happy reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an exciting start to a new series! I Ioved this portal story and devoured it in one sitting! Anaya is swept off her feet in a whirlwind romance by the perfect man - only to find out he’s not human. And although she comes to terms with that (and their cultural differences 😉), she just can’t overlook his deception about the reasons he sought her out. When she decides to return to Earth to try to process everything she’s gone through however, the planet’s biotech sends her somewhere new - and I can’t wait until the next book comes out to see what happens next!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Flor Arasco · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know WHAT is wrong with with me, but I fell in love with this story from the first page and unapologetically would defend Vedin in any fight.

It was spicy, interesting and the world building was amazing. I'm so intrigued by this alien race and their problems. It was amazingly fast paced, in a good way, we got aliens, a billionaire perfect husband that isn't what he seems, secrets, lies, a reverse harem and the MOTHER of plot twists at the end.

Can't wait to read the next book in the series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thus is Book 1 of The Prime Awakening Trilogy. And it starts things off with a bang! Look forward to more from this world.

'I'm falling for them. All of them. Becoming one of them.'

The characters were very appealing and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.