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Monster Mercenary Mates #8

Claimed by the Alien Mercenary

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She’s the mission. He’s the monster everyone fears. His claim might destroy them both.

Dani

I came to Radin chasing a miracle cure hidden in a flower. I never expected to become prey. Days of captivity leave my empathic senses burned out, my power little more than an ache beneath my skin.

Then Jaxin arrives, silent, shark-eyed, built for violence. When the rescue goes awry, he hauls me over his shoulder and runs. Alone in Radin’s humid jungle, survival means pressed bodies, shared breath, and heat that has nothing to do with the heat of summer.

As my empathy recovers, I feel what he hides. Control layered over hunger. Possession strangled by discipline. A truth he refuses to he feels more than he’s allowed.

Jaxin

Emotion is forbidden. My people, the Rummicaron, suppress it for a reason. But the jungle strips restraint bare, and my true nature claws its way to the to claim, to protect, to possess a mate.

Dani doesn’t just tempt me, she awakens something ancient and dangerous. As Radin’s giant closes in and a crime lord tightens her grip, I must choose between duty and instinct.

And if I choose wrong, Radin will kill us both.

This is a standalone novel and the eighth book in the Monster Mercenary Mates series. This sci-fi monster romance features a not-so-emotionless, shark-like alien mercenary, a gifted empathic scientist, and a steamy HEA.

274 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 27, 2026

25 people are currently reading
11 people want to read

About the author

Robin O'Connor

46 books168 followers
Robin O’Connor is an author who loves to write about strong, alien heroes and quirky heroines. She lives with her husband and son along with a couple hundred books (hers, definitely hers) and probably just as many computer parts (her husband’s). Her house therefore probably resembles something like a mad-scientist’s lab on any given day.

She’s always working on at least a half dozen projects at the same time but is never without time to answer questions, write up funny extras or hang out in her group online to speak with her readers.

Join her mailing list ➜ https://robinoconnor.ink/

Join her on Facebook ➜ https://www.facebook.com/RobinOConnor...

Visit her website ➜ https://robinoconnor.ink/

Follow her on Instagram➜ instagram.com/robinoconnorofficial/

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
822 reviews3 followers
February 5, 2026
I have been wondering how Robin would portray Jaxin. How would she describe intimacy with a shark-type male? It was a good read and full of intriguing action and engaging characters. We even get a bit of an update on the other members of the Varakatoom! Enjoy the world of science and galactic battles.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lynn_G.
1,135 reviews27 followers
January 23, 2026
Dani and her team were sent to the planet Radin to try to produce a treatment or cure for the always fatal aftermath of being exposed to an illicit synthetic drug manufactured and distributed by none other than her now-deceased father and currently her drug lord half sister. When the lab is infiltrated by a group of thugs on her sister’s payroll, she and her team are forced at gunpoint to work nearly around the clock at an unreasonable pace to complete the task. As an Aderian empath, Dani is so overwhelmed by the negative (and otherwise) feelings and thoughts surrounding her, she’d given up hope of ever finding a being she could be intimate with, and certainly never thought it’d appear in the form of a shark-like humanoid alien with deadly assassin skills.

As the weapons specialist aboard the Varakartoom, Jaxon is always up for a rescue or exfiltration, but since recovering from a horrific injury several months ago, he’d been confined to the ship. Finally cleared to return to the field, he’s immediately drawn to the captivating Dani, and especially keen to help her complete her mission to help stop beings dying from exposure to the awful drug. After he liberates her team from the captors, he helps her find and gather more flora to continue conducting her work off-planet.

Between the giants who dwell on Radin and the threat still posed by her half-sister and her goons, Jacob must keep Dani safe while awaiting his crew’s return to escort them away to safety. Their attraction becomes overwhelming and inevitable, despite neither species being known for having fated mates.

When they’re once again taken captive, the pair must work together to liberate themselves from their captors.

This was another exciting and steamy book in Robin O’Connor’s mercenary series. I received an advance reader copy from the author and BookSprout, and I’m sharing my honest thoughts.
Profile Image for Zelda.
99 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 24, 2026
Alright Jaxin!! 🥰🥰

If you've read any of Robin's books that mentioned Jaxin and or his species you know he's Rummicaron ( a species that suppresses their feelings and look like they have the head of a shark). Jaxin is going through some emotions that he's having trouble keeping in check. After nearly dying and still recovering, he hides his emotions the best he can so he can go on the next mission. That mission... is to rescue Aderian scientists.

Danitalin (Dani) along with 3 other scientists are sent to the planet Radin to try to produce a treatment/cure for those who become sick with a deadly disease from the production of the illegal drug Roka. After being on the planet for a few weeks and many many failed attempts at the cure, they become captured. Held captive by a crime lord they are being rushed to create the cure so the crime lord gets it first. When Jaxin goes to save the captured scientists, he gets separated from the team. He then has to reach an extraction point to save them both. Along the way they help, teach, and learn from each other. They also make a new friend. Love that part!

This story was soooo well written! The storyline was easy to follow. The action, the twist and turns and even the spice all have you sitting on the edge of your seat. The chemistry between Dani and Jaxin is so so strong. I love it!! I love even more learning more about Jaxin and why his species teaches them to suppress their emotions. You get to learn where Bex came from and his attachment for her. Now, the twist with Dani and the crime lord... hello what!?! 🤯🤯

Jaxin is the perfect match for Dani and her to him.🥰🥰 So so looking forward to the next book on Thatcher and Ysa. 🥰😁🥰.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
720 reviews5 followers
February 2, 2026
I have loved every book of this series but I think so far this one is the best 🥰🥰🥰

With Jaxin the Rummicaron (space shark) mercenary who’s species trains themselves to suppress ALL of their emotions, struggling with trauma…and Dani, the gentle, extraordinarily talented Aderian healer, scientist and strong empath…..these two are a perfect fit….if they can survive that is….

What an adventure!!!! So much action, we meet a new species, there are some amazing surprises….and of course when we see what happens when a Rummicaron stops suppressing all those emotions and desires????? YES PLEASE!!!!! Grrrrrrr🤗😍🥰😍🤗🔥🔥🔥.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Chandra Luna.
1,894 reviews13 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 23, 2026
Dani comes to the brutal planet Radin chasing a miracle: a cure that could save countless lives from a deadly drug legacy left behind by her own family. Instead, she finds captivity, exhaustion, and an empathic overload so severe it nearly breaks her. Stripped of safety and hope, Dani is already fighting to survive long before the real danger arrives.

That danger—and salvation—comes in the form of Jaxin.

A Rummicaron mercenary feared by nearly everyone, Jaxin is controlled, lethal, and emotionally restrained by culture and conditioning. Recently sidelined by injury, he’s finally back in the field when Dani’s rescue mission goes sideways. What follows is a relentless fight for survival through Radin’s unforgiving jungle, where danger presses close and intimacy becomes unavoidable.

What makes this story shine is the emotional contrast between the leads. Dani feels everything—too much, too deeply—while Jaxin has spent his life suppressing emotion to survive. As Dani’s empathic abilities recover, she senses the truth beneath his discipline: hunger held in check, devotion he refuses to name, and a possessive instinct that terrifies him as much as it draws him closer to her.

Their bond grows through shared danger, trust, and quiet moments of grounding rather than instant fate. Jaxin becomes Dani’s safe harbor, offering her calm when the emotional noise becomes unbearable. Dani, in turn, becomes the one presence Jaxin doesn’t have to guard himself against. Their intimacy—both emotional and physical—feels earned, layered, and deeply satisfying.

The world-building remains immersive without overwhelming the story, and the pacing keeps the tension high with looming threats from Radin’s giants, criminal forces, and unfinished missions. The mercenary crew adds warmth and loyalty, reinforcing the found-family theme that runs beneath the action.

Most of all, this book delivers a romance built on mutual respect, protection, and choice. Jaxin isn’t just a fearsome alien warrior—he’s a man learning to balance instinct with restraint, devotion with duty. Dani isn’t just surviving—she’s determined to make a difference, no matter the cost.

Claimed by the Alien Mercenary is fast-paced, emotionally rich, and deeply rewarding. For readers who love protective alien heroes, capable heroines, action-driven plots, and romances forged under pressure, this story doesn’t just deliver—it claims your attention and refuses to let go.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for kymagirl.
6,373 reviews89 followers
January 29, 2026
Trapped together in the jungle. Bound by more than survival.

Jaxin is a Rummicaron weapon master, trained to suppress emotion and built for war. Danitalin is an Aderian empath chasing a potential cure on a dangerous jungle planet. When mercenaries take over her research station, she’s forced to cooperate. Jaxin is sent in with his team, but the extraction spirals out of control. With no time to plan and enemies closing in, he grabs her and runs.

Out in the wild, survival strips them bare. Jaxin clings to control, but Dani feels what he won’t show. Pain, hunger, and the instincts he keeps tightly chained. She’s more than a mission, and he’s more than a weapon. With each step, the space between them narrows, and something deeper takes hold.

They find unexpected shelter in a hidden Radin city, but peace is short-lived. A powerful figure from Dani’s past threatens everything they’ve built. Trust becomes the only way forward. As danger closes in, it’s not just about survival anymore, it’s about choosing each other, even when the cost is high.

Jaxin begins closed off and emotionally restrained, shaped by years of silence and loss. Dani starts raw and cautious, her empathy frayed by trauma. Together, they shift. He lets someone see him. She lets someone hold her. What grows between them is slow, intense, and impossible to ignore.

A high heat, fated mates, alien survival romance packed with forced proximity, jungle danger, a protective mercenary, and the unraveling of emotional walls. Exploring trauma recovery, grief, identity, emotional repression, vulnerability, trust, connection, sacrifice, and healing. It’s about two damaged souls learning to feel again, finding strength in each other, and building a bond forged through fire when survival alone is no longer enough.

The Elevator Pitch: A fierce, emotionally charged alien romance where survival ignites an unbreakable bond. When an empathic scientist is taken hostage and rescued by a weaponized mercenary with buried grief, their escape through a hostile jungle sparks a connection neither can control. Packed with tension, vulnerability, and heat, it’s a story of trust earned, emotions unraveled, and love forged in fire.
574 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 22, 2026
Marvelous Mercenary Madness and Teeth… So Many Teeth!!!

Claimed by the Alien Mercenary is book 8 in the Monster Mercenary Mates series. This can be read as a standalone, it has its own storyline and HEA but I highly suggest reading this series from the beginning. There are unique and special characters and spectacular events that you don’t want to miss and many of the secondary characters we have met again and again!

What could possibly go wrong when an Empath and an emotionally stunted Mercenary are forced together? Claimed by the Alien Mercenary follows Mercenary Jax and scientist Dani in an adventure that takes them into a hostile planet with terrifying foes chasing their heels and friends, old and new who have their backs. I loved getting to know these characters and I cannot wait for another book in this creative series.

If you are looking to immerse yourself in a universe of diverse characters tons of adventure and plenty of spicy goodness, I put a reading order recommendation below. Some time frames slightly overlap and different characters, events and exciting plots lines like to pop into each other’s books for a visit and that makes it so much fun!

1. Prequel novella, Gladiator’s Sanctuary, I received this for free on Robin’s website.
2. The Gladiators of the Vagabond series; read in order.
3. Three holiday themed novellas; There’s An Alien Down My Chimney, There’s An Elf In My Cockpit and Spy You Next Year; These all take place in the same universe!
4. Taken by the Gargoyle King; a novella related to the Gladiators series.
5. The Naga Hunter’s Lost Mate; prequel to the Serpents of Serant series.
6. The Serpents of Serant series; read in order.
7. Protected by the Alien Mercenary; is part of the My Monster, My Protector series but feels like an introduction to Robin’s Monster Mercenary Mates series.
8. The Monster Mercenary Mates series; read in order!
Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,358 reviews119 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 24, 2026
Claimed by the Alien Mercenary by Robin O’Connor
Monster Mercenary Mates #8

~ Mercenaries of the Varakartoom spaceship are slowly finding, protecting, and falling in love with the women meant just for them ~ Loved Jaxin and Dani’s adventure ~ Great addition to the series ~

What I liked:
* Jaxin: Rummicaran – shark-like attributes, weapons master, injured in previous book and healing, has nightmares related to his past, suppresses his feelings, strong, lethal, attracted to Dani
* Danitalin “Dani”: Aderian, empath, scientist, physician, father was a crime lord and her half sister took his place, seeking a cure, stronger than she realizes, enjoys the calm she experiences with Jaxin
* Escaping for a while to another world and watching a romance unfold
* The way Jaxin and Dani cared for one another and looked out for each other
* The giants on Radin and getting to know TakTak and his way of living a little bit – wouldn’t mind seeing him and his people again in the future
* The plot, setting, pacing, and writing
* Jaxin’s and Dani’s backstories
* Jaxin’s relationship to his cannon “Bex” and his ability to eventually see “not-Bex” in a better light
* That the Varakartoom team is always there for their members
* Ysra: mechanic, saved and repurposed parts of Jaxin’s cannon, interesting, may end up with Thatcher in a future book

What I didn’t like:
* Koratalin: Dani’s half-sister, criminal, opposite of empathetic, wicked, evil, hope not to see her again in the future
* Thinking about the aliens that wanted to take over the Giant’s planet by force and their willingness to kill to do so

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars
Profile Image for Hollollolly.
83 reviews
January 28, 2026
Claimed by the Alien Mercenary is an interesting read because both the MMC Jaxin and FMC Danitalin are aliens, meaning neither of the main characters is human. This didn't slow me down at all and if you've read any of the other books in this series it won't be an issue for you either. Jaxin and Dani's story is a break from the chase for their main crimelord villain and a peek into the world of a different crimelord - spinoff series, please?!

Robin creates rich worlds and multifaceted, interesting, lovable characters that intermingle across a shared universe. Plus the spicy scenes are hot af. An appendix is so underrated for a long series and Robin O’Connor is a real one for providing. I also really needed the cover photo because I’ve been trying to picture Jaxin for 7 books unsuccessfully.

I enjoyed this book and will continue to read the series. I'm excited for Dravion and I really enjoyed the native giants we got a glimpse of in Claimed by the Alien Mercenary. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Spoilers! Below are the tags I included in my personal tracking that other readers may find relevant: alien, aquatic creatures, fated mates, fmc-dani, interseries, interspecies, mental health, mmc-jaxin, sci-fi, space, special junk, virgin

Fiction, romance, science fiction, adventurous, fast paced
Plot or Character Driven: character
Strong character development: yes
Lovable characters: yes
Diverse cast of characters: yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: it’s complicated
181 reviews
January 28, 2026
I didn't expect much from Jaxin's story, except knowing why he was so attached to his weapon ... and it was devasting (in a good way?).
After succeding to making me like Sin (a tiny bit), I knew I was going to enjoy this either way and Jaxin and Dani's story is opposite attracts in the best way, they both feel much more than they're supposed to, he's repressing it while she's forced to live everyone's emotions with her empathy gift. He's the calm to her storm, and she's making him see that feelings aren't so bad... that was beautiful and I'm happy to see him come to terms with unresolved things from his past, and Dani being a key point to help those who suffered like his family ... once again beautiful ! I just really enjoyed this, glad they didn't get a pet while on the mission like the others ... but also they have Bex already lol.
The giants were very intriguing, too bad we couldn't see more of them.
Can't wait for Thatcher and Ysa, and maybe Dravion or Saisir next, both would be very interesting ! Not counting these two, there's only three unmated crew members left.

"to be claimed by a beast like me" felt a bit cringe, like I'm used to it but I don't know why this time it stuck and I couldn't help but laugh, thinking about it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
688 reviews7 followers
February 1, 2026
This alien romance was such an enjoyable read and a great addition to the series. The story follows a brilliant scientist who is desperately trying to find a cure—one that turns out to be incredibly dangerous for her to possess, because far too many people want it for their own purposes. That constant threat adds real tension to the plot and keeps the story moving at a strong pace.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between the main characters. Both of them are aliens with very unique traits, which makes their relationship feel fresh and interesting rather than familiar or predictable. The rescue aspect of the story is well done, but it never overshadows the fact that the female main character is intelligent, driven, and deeply involved in the larger stakes of the plot.
The romance develops naturally alongside the action, blending danger, trust, and connection in a way that feels balanced. It fits beautifully into the overall series and expands the universe without feeling overwhelming.
Overall, this is a compelling alien romance with strong characters, a high-stakes plot, and just the right mix of science, suspense, and emotional connection. Definitely a great read for fans of the series and alien romance in general.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,026 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 21, 2026
This story is dual POV, well written and edited, and a fast-paced, action focused, sci fi romance, in a darker setting, between Jaxin, the male alien shark headed humanoid mercenary lead, and Dani(talin), the female alien humanoid empath/medical science researcher lead. I adored Jaxin in previous stories and have been waiting for his story! It did not disappoint. I enjoyed the way the author showed Jaxin working to balance his emotions as his people and culture required, and appreciated the way he showed Dani to help balance her empathic overload *and* to provide his mind as her safe harbour. I enjoyed Dani’s determination to pursue her work and to make a societal difference, even when faced with challenges and demands. I enjoyed her comfort in Jaxin, and the way she leaned into her empathy. I enjoyed both characters’ focus on peace with the natives of the planet they were on. I enjoyed the building intimacy and the steamy moments that contributed to the relationship development. I adored the support of Jaxin’s chosen mercenary family. I love the world and characters this author has created, and every instalment is fantastic. Cannot wait for the next one!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
27 reviews
Review of advance copy
January 22, 2026
Claimed by the Alien Mercenary is a fast-paced, engaging sci-fi romance that blends action, emotional bonding, and a satisfying romantic arc. As part of the Monster Mercenary Mates series, this installment delivers the familiar elements fans expect while still allowing the main couple to shine in their own story.

The alien mercenary hero is protective, battle-hardened, and deeply loyal, but what makes him compelling is the emotional depth beneath his tough exterior. The heroine is resilient and adaptable, and her growth throughout the story feels organic rather than rushed. Their relationship develops through shared danger and mutual respect, creating chemistry that feels earned.

The pacing is strong, with enough external conflict to keep the story moving while maintaining focus on the romance. The world-building continues to be immersive without becoming overwhelming, making it accessible both to long-time series readers and those newer to the universe.

I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy sci-fi romance with alien heroes, action-driven plots, protective mates, and emotionally satisfying relationships.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Between pages.
374 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 25, 2026
​I enjoy the fact that Jaxin was paired with a non-human mate! I honestly couldn’t imagine how a shark-like hero would work with a human, but leave it to a creative genius like Robin to make it happen. She always manages to make it work—it was sexy, hot, and beyond passionate.

​I love seeing these mercenaries meet new "friends" during hard times. The Rudin giants seem so loyal, and I really want to learn more about them! I’ll admit, I was half-expecting Dani and Jaxin to have a deep chat about flowers hidden quality or you know, that could help finding a cure, but even though their communication wasn't what I imagined, it still totally worked. Also, I’m convinced Taktak knows way more than he’s letting on... or maybe he’s just a curious giant.

​Just when I thought the rescue was going smoothly—BAM! Another gripping hinder to cross!. That Varakartoom rescue mission is always my favorite part. I love how these awesome mercenaries gets bigger and with Dani on their side, she can be a badass assit ! She can build bomb, a strong empath! But with Jaxin exercises to prevent her from overwhelming emotions around ! She can be mad scientist😎. Varakartoom new crew acquired!

Plus, the hints dropped for the next books? I am already hyped! 🤩
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Toni.
2,390 reviews24 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 25, 2026
Jaxin if recovering from being injured. He's still adjusting to having list his previous "gun". Parts of her were in his body as part of his bones. Now he's pushing himself so he can go on missions. He is morning his the death of his cannon named after his sister. Then another ship member gives him a surprise gift...a cannon that is his old one but not.
Danitalin is in a planet being guarded while she and her team are working on a cure for something. She went out to get more plants and on her return she's meet by the guard that had mentioned her sister's name.
Something isn't right and if she can't come up with a cute she and are team might be dead.
He and his crew members have a new mission to head to the planet Radin and rescue a female scientist named Danitalin.
This begins a new journey and mission that will shake both his world and hers. But what does her sister have to do with anything?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for A L.
191 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy
January 25, 2026
This book is the 8th in a series. I haven’t read all of the previous ones but I think 3 or 4 of them so it was a warm welcome back to the mercenaries on board the Varakartoom.
Dani and Jax meet under jarring conditions but still develop a true mate bond which greatly enhances them both. It gives them an interesting development arc in the story and also grounds the reader a bit in a somewhat disjointed chase on a hostile planet. It’s exiting and a very complex layout of an alien world but I use the term disjointed because it is at times difficult to sort out what is really going on and there’s a lot of different storylines interwoven with the main ones: the love story and the chase.
There are loads of elements to love, notable mention are the giants, and the healing and redemption of our mc’s stand out.
It’s a book well worth reading and you will be very entertained but also, in true dani fashion, a bit overwhelmed.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
120 reviews5 followers
January 28, 2026
Dani just wants to help. She is searching for a cure hiding within the small flowers she gathers. Little does she know but others want this cure too. It would be used cruelly in the wrong hands. When Dani's lab is taken over by vile mercenaries she has little hope for finishing her research or even coming out of this alive. Then he shows up...all tall dark and handsome with a quiet calmness that instantly soothes Dani's frazzled senses. Maybe there is hope afterall.

Jaxin thought this was just another rescue mission. Get in, grab the scientists and get out. Then he saw her. His Dani. Maybe his race didn't mate for life ...but here he was feeling exactly that. She was his and he is going to make sure she she is safe and can finish her cure.

I have always adored Jaxin and I am so happy he gets his chance at a mate. A great tale of discovering ones true self behind the protections we wall behind. Looking inside is often the best way to move ahead.

It was near impossible to put this book down!
Profile Image for Sandra Sanches.
688 reviews21 followers
Review of advance copy
January 25, 2026
I was truely curious to see how Robin O'Connor would pull this one out.
The "shark man' is so unemotional that I thought it was a challenge,but she did her magic again and showed other side of the Varakartoom’s weapons master.
Jaxin is still recovering from his almost fatal injuries (Sineater 's story) but insists to go in a mission to retrieve an Aderian scientist.
Danitalin is a powerful empath and others emotions leave her near a burnout.
Jaxin is a blessing for her with his capacity to close his emotions.
And when ,on the run from enemies, they're stranded on the planet ,a bond forms and our Rummicaron shows that he's feelings are there and are powerful.
One more amazing addiction to this rich,imaginative and utterly addictive series,well written, a good world building, a never-ending of action and charismatic characters that pull all your strings.
Highly recomend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Chelsea.
1,569 reviews81 followers
February 4, 2026
I really enjoyed this newest addition to the Monster Mercenary Mates series and getting to know Jaxin & Danitalin. Seeing how the relationship between Jaxin & Dani grew as the story unfolded was entertaining and I also liked the Radin Giant Taktak that they befriend. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

Steam Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥

Monster Mercenary Mates
Prequel is Protected by the Alien Mercenary: Thar'oc & Rikki
Caught by the Alien Mercenary: Captain Asmoded & Manyin
Stolen by the Alien Mercenary: Mitnick & Harper
Betrothed to the Alien Mercenary: Aramon & Evie
Entangled by the Alien Mercenary: Tasseloris & Elyssa
Saved by the Alien Mercenary: Brace & Ruby
Chased by the Alien Mercenary: Solear & Lyra
Tempted by the Alien Mercenary: The Sineater & Frederique
Claimed by the Alien Mercenary: Jaxin & Dani
Stalked by the Alien Mercenary: Thatcher & Ysa

🦈 I received a free advanced reader copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. 🛸
Profile Image for Jen Is Reading.
235 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy
January 24, 2026
Dani is an empath and scientist who finds herself trapped, her mental gifts burnt out by the stress of captivity. Jaxin is culturally forbidden from feeling. I enjoyed the tension between Jaxin’s emotional silence and Dani’s emotional sensitivity.

As they navigate their feelings for each other, the plot takes them on an exciting journey to find their rescue. Watching Jaxin give in to the pull of his mate and learn it is safe to feel was entertaining to read.

While this is book eight, it works well as a standalone, though fans of the series will appreciate seeing familiar faces. A fantastic escape for readers who love an MMC who is terrifying to everyone else but soft and possessive only for his mate.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
779 reviews4 followers
January 28, 2026
This is such a fun series. Each book is a standalone for the couple with of course an enchanting HEA for them.

I liked both Jaxin and his sidekick Bex (aka his canon gun) and Danitalin ( Jaxin calls her Dani) She is a strong empath and scientist. I loved that Jaxin was able to help her with some of her empath problems. and that she in turn was able to help him with his feelings or according to his crew lack of.

Action throughout and steam to the eventual romance. I loved the conflicts they had to power through. We learn a little about Dani's past . I also loved that her empath abilities were able to help them with the people they encountered. Can't wait for the next to find their other half.

I received a free advanced copy of this book via Booksiren and am voluntarily leaving my review.
2,405 reviews13 followers
January 28, 2026
Another one bites the dust in falling in love and finding his mate on the Varakartoom crew. This wonderful story is about Dani an Aderian/empath/medical scientist who was experimenting on a plant for a cure but gets captured when her research compound was taken over by her sister's (Koratalin) thugs and Rummicaron mercenary Jaxin who saves her. Jaxin is on recovery, feeling guilty his friends got hurt, and mourning the loss of his best friend Bex, his cannon that saved him. The crew is heading to the planet Radin. With pure determination he goes on the mission and saves Dani. Running in the jungle being chased by her sister's crew this adventurous romantic engaging story captivated me. Loved our characters, they were wonderfully depicted and very likable. This enjoyable copy was a delight to read, and I'd volunteer to review.
607 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 20, 2026
Oh man Robin has done it again!!! She has totally hit it out of the park. I have fallen in love with this series. I loved every single moment of this read!! The way we are able to fully delve into the way these individual mercs think and feel and all their hidden talents that are slowly revealed in each book. The way Jaxin makes Dani feel safe and gives her strength to better control her talent for feeling every ones feelings around her. The way these two come together made for a thrilling adventure. I loved every moment of this read!!! These just keep getting better and better!! I cannot wait to see what more will be coming our way with this series!!
Profile Image for Florencia.
5 reviews
Review of advance copy
January 21, 2026
Claimed by the Alien Mercenary is a solid addition to the series, offering a satisfying combination of intense romantic chemistry and sci-fi action. The dynamic between the stoic Jaxin and the empathetic Dani is captivating, showing how love can break down even the most rigid emotional barriers.
I love how Jaxin's connection with Dani causes him to begin to experience and accept the powerful emotions that his training has suppressed. I love how they support each other and how Jaxin grows emotionally!
This book does not disappoint, just like all the other books in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Carole.
2,095 reviews16 followers
January 27, 2026
Claimed by the Alien Mercenary book eight is another story of romance entwined with the action and adventure that always shadows the mercenaries and their mates of the Varakartoom.
This newest will bring together empath Dani and Rummicaron mercenary Jaxin.
Personal vulnerabilities, passion, enemies, danger, and family dynamics, never fails to bring the reader into a nicely written story with engaging characters who always keep the entertainment fast paced, and the romance fierce as they power towards that ever deserved HEA which ALWAYS leaves this reader looking forward to the very next story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Johanna.
1,888 reviews41 followers
January 28, 2026
'This is a standalone novel and the eighth book in the Monster Mercenary Mates series. This sci-fi monster romance features a not-so-emotionless, shark-like alien mercenary, a gifted empathic scientist, and a steamy HEA.'

The characters were so very appealing and likeable and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. Another great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely 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.
2,707 reviews13 followers
Review of advance copy
January 24, 2026
Searching for a cure!

Danitalin is leading a research team on Radin, seeking a cure for a deadly disease. The Varakartoom is hired to rescue the scientists after communication is lost. Jaxin is determined to be on the landing party. His wounds are not completely healed after the deadly injuries he received in the battle that cost him Bex. The moment he sets eyes on Danitalin, he knows his life is changed forever.

Excellent sci-fi action-romance! There is great chemistry between Danitalin and Jaxin. I received an advance copy, but my review is honest and voluntary.
1,539 reviews31 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 25, 2026
Dani is on Radin to find a cure for the awful effects of a rampant drug that is killing the people who are making it. Jaxin is part of the mercenary group who has come to rescue Dani and her helpers when they are taken over by the bad guys. In the midst of trying to get off the planet there are a number of surprises one of which is that they find they are attracted to each other. This is a fast paced adventure romance that I really enjoyed! Thanks to the author for an arc of this book! This review is my own opinion.
581 reviews5 followers
January 29, 2026
I love a story featuring an alien who actually looks like an alien and Jaxin (who has shark like attributes) is a perfect example of that. I love that he shortened Danitalin’s name to Dani (so sweet) and that he was able to give her the emotional rest that she so desperately needed. There was a perfect blend of tension and action and the relationship between Dani and Jaxin was “chef’s kiss”. I am so looking forward to the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,884 reviews31 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 26, 2026
“Claimed by the Alien Mercenary” by Robin O’Connor

-A fast-paced sci-fi romance with high stakes, danger, and irresistible chemistry. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.

Dani is a capable empath heroine, and Jaxin is a protective, emotionally restrained alien mercenary I adored. Action, heart, and heat blend perfectly, making this a deeply satisfying read with a strong ending.
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