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80% Smoke 20% Show: Alien Fated Mates
Not yet published
Expected 15 May 2680% Smoke 20% Show
All it takes is one intergalactic leap of faith…
Nash
For his birthday, Nash expected cake. Maybe a quiet night in. Definitely not a seven-foot tall, purple-scaled alien doing chin-ups in his living room.
Apparently, when your cousin is mated to a warrior from another planet, surprise dragons are just part of the deal.
Saluda is powerful. Built for battle.
And completely unprepared for Nash.
Nash doesn’t fight with claws or fire. He fights by showing up. By caring. By offering warmth without asking for anything in return.
And that kind of strength might be the most dangerous of all.
Saluda
To earn his wings, Saluda must prove himself worthy of becoming a Drack warrior.
Strength. Discipline. Control.
That is all that matters.
The human male who smells like storms and looks at him as though he is more than a weapon is only a distraction.
Nash is small. Soft. Weak by Drack standards.
Yet he stands his ground with quiet certainty. He protects others without armor. He gives without fear.
Saluda has spent his life believing strength is measured in muscle and fire.
But as their heart link connection ignites and the trials to earn his wings loom, he begins to understand a truth that shakes him to his The strongest male in the room is not always the one who can burn it down.
Sometimes, it’s the one who can hold it together.
When duty demands sacrifice and destiny demands fire, Saluda must decide what kind of warrior he truly wants to be—and whether earning his wings is worth losing the male who has already taught him how to fly.
80% Smoke 20% Show is an MM sci-fi romance featuring a dragon-like alien warrior and the human who redefines his idea of strength. Expect fated mates, found family, storm-charged heat, emotional growth, and a love that proves true power isn’t always loud.
Book three in the Alien Fated Mates series is approximately 100,000 words. While it can be read as a standalone, it is best enjoyed in order.
All it takes is one intergalactic leap of faith…
Nash
For his birthday, Nash expected cake. Maybe a quiet night in. Definitely not a seven-foot tall, purple-scaled alien doing chin-ups in his living room.
Apparently, when your cousin is mated to a warrior from another planet, surprise dragons are just part of the deal.
Saluda is powerful. Built for battle.
And completely unprepared for Nash.
Nash doesn’t fight with claws or fire. He fights by showing up. By caring. By offering warmth without asking for anything in return.
And that kind of strength might be the most dangerous of all.
Saluda
To earn his wings, Saluda must prove himself worthy of becoming a Drack warrior.
Strength. Discipline. Control.
That is all that matters.
The human male who smells like storms and looks at him as though he is more than a weapon is only a distraction.
Nash is small. Soft. Weak by Drack standards.
Yet he stands his ground with quiet certainty. He protects others without armor. He gives without fear.
Saluda has spent his life believing strength is measured in muscle and fire.
But as their heart link connection ignites and the trials to earn his wings loom, he begins to understand a truth that shakes him to his The strongest male in the room is not always the one who can burn it down.
Sometimes, it’s the one who can hold it together.
When duty demands sacrifice and destiny demands fire, Saluda must decide what kind of warrior he truly wants to be—and whether earning his wings is worth losing the male who has already taught him how to fly.
80% Smoke 20% Show is an MM sci-fi romance featuring a dragon-like alien warrior and the human who redefines his idea of strength. Expect fated mates, found family, storm-charged heat, emotional growth, and a love that proves true power isn’t always loud.
Book three in the Alien Fated Mates series is approximately 100,000 words. While it can be read as a standalone, it is best enjoyed in order.
- GenresAliensM M Romance
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 15, 2026
2 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Chris Redd
4 books49 followersWould you like to review future ARCs from me? How about gaining access to exclusive content! If so I'd love to hear from you. Sign up for my newsletter at www.chrisredd.ca.
Chris Redd has been dreaming up stories since she can remember. Her attraction to the romance genre began in the dusty corridors of her tiny local library, browsing the curled corners of Sweet Valley Highs and Sweet Dreams. Now she writes her own twist on romance.
She loves to craft vivid sci-fi worlds where flawed humans fall in love with equally flawed aliens. She is the author of the steamy Alien Fated Mates series.
When she’s not writing, you can find Chris Redd exploring the forests and the coastline with her Toy Aussiedoodle or trying to capture the perfect video of her daughter’s rabbit doing a binkie.
Chris Redd has been dreaming up stories since she can remember. Her attraction to the romance genre began in the dusty corridors of her tiny local library, browsing the curled corners of Sweet Valley Highs and Sweet Dreams. Now she writes her own twist on romance.
She loves to craft vivid sci-fi worlds where flawed humans fall in love with equally flawed aliens. She is the author of the steamy Alien Fated Mates series.
When she’s not writing, you can find Chris Redd exploring the forests and the coastline with her Toy Aussiedoodle or trying to capture the perfect video of her daughter’s rabbit doing a binkie.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 10, 2026
4.25 stars. This story is dual POV, well written and edited, and a fast-paced, sweet and steamy, emotionally charged, fated mates, opposites attract, sci fi romance between Nash, the male human massage therapist lead, and his new housemate, Saluda, the male alien warrior lead who has come to earth to compete, hoping to force his body to final winged maturity and isn’t looking for a mate. I enjoyed Nash’s gentle, open, loving personality, his willingness to offer people the benefit of the doubt, and his joy in other people’s happiness. I enjoyed Saluda’s goal focus and his willingness to take risks to achieve his aims. I also enjoyed his empathy when he realised how poorly fellow non-humans were being treated on earth, and his work to assist their refugee claims for another planet. I adored Nash calling out Saluda’s bad behaviour and his refusal to accept less than sincere repentance. I enjoyed the supportive and engaged secondary characters who provided advice and guidance to both characters. I enjoyed the steamy intimate scenes, which helped emphasise relationship development stages. I enjoyed the more balanced relationships that Nash had established by the end of the story, with Saluda but also with important others in his life.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
April 24, 2026
I went into 80% Smoke 20% Show by Chris Redd expecting a fun alien romance… and walked out emotionally wrecked in the best way possible. 😭✨ The angst? High. The misunderstandings? Painful. The feelings? Absolutely overwhelming. There were multiple moments where I genuinely teared up. These two deserved the world, and watching them constantly put each other first made my heart ache in the softest way. I just wanted to wrap Nash and Saluda in a blanket and protect them forever. 🫶
The story followed Nash—who expected a quiet birthday but instead got a seven-foot, purple-scaled alien doing chin-ups in his living room—and Saluda, a disciplined warrior trying to earn his wings. What started as chaos quickly turned into something deeper. Nash’s quiet, steady kindness challenged everything Saluda believed about strength. And as their heart-link connection grew stronger, so did the stakes. Duty, identity, and love clashed in such an emotional, meaningful way. 🐉⚡
What I loved most was how beautifully the love story unfolded. It felt natural. Earned. Deep. 💞 Nash didn’t fight with brute force—he showed up, cared, and held space. And Saluda? Watching him slowly unlearn everything he thought strength meant was chef’s kiss. The character growth here was stunning, with such a powerful message: strength isn’t always loud—it’s often quiet, steady, and selfless. 🥹
The plot was packed with intriguing twists, emotional tension, and action that kept me hooked. I loved the cameos from earlier characters—it made the world feel alive and connected. And Saluda and Nash? Completely different from previous couples, in the best way. Their dynamic was softer, deeper, and incredibly intimate. 💫
If it’s not obvious yet—this became my absolute favourite in the series. I didn’t think anything could top the previous books, but here we are. I’m already tempted to reread the entire series from the beginning. 💜
✨ Perfect for fans of:
🐉 Alien x Human (MM romance)
💫 Fated mates
🥹 Emotional angst & misunderstandings
🫶 Found family vibes
🔥 Slow-burn, heartfelt romance
⚔️ Warrior learning softness
🌧️ “Strength isn’t what you think” theme
💞 Gentle love interest x guarded warrior
While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the series in order—it just hits harder that way. 💯
Huge thanks to the author and BookSirens for the ARC opportunity. This is my honest review. 💌
The story followed Nash—who expected a quiet birthday but instead got a seven-foot, purple-scaled alien doing chin-ups in his living room—and Saluda, a disciplined warrior trying to earn his wings. What started as chaos quickly turned into something deeper. Nash’s quiet, steady kindness challenged everything Saluda believed about strength. And as their heart-link connection grew stronger, so did the stakes. Duty, identity, and love clashed in such an emotional, meaningful way. 🐉⚡
What I loved most was how beautifully the love story unfolded. It felt natural. Earned. Deep. 💞 Nash didn’t fight with brute force—he showed up, cared, and held space. And Saluda? Watching him slowly unlearn everything he thought strength meant was chef’s kiss. The character growth here was stunning, with such a powerful message: strength isn’t always loud—it’s often quiet, steady, and selfless. 🥹
The plot was packed with intriguing twists, emotional tension, and action that kept me hooked. I loved the cameos from earlier characters—it made the world feel alive and connected. And Saluda and Nash? Completely different from previous couples, in the best way. Their dynamic was softer, deeper, and incredibly intimate. 💫
If it’s not obvious yet—this became my absolute favourite in the series. I didn’t think anything could top the previous books, but here we are. I’m already tempted to reread the entire series from the beginning. 💜
✨ Perfect for fans of:
🐉 Alien x Human (MM romance)
💫 Fated mates
🥹 Emotional angst & misunderstandings
🫶 Found family vibes
🔥 Slow-burn, heartfelt romance
⚔️ Warrior learning softness
🌧️ “Strength isn’t what you think” theme
💞 Gentle love interest x guarded warrior
While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the series in order—it just hits harder that way. 💯
Huge thanks to the author and BookSirens for the ARC opportunity. This is my honest review. 💌
May 9, 2026
✨ARC Book Review✨
Intergalactic relationships are honestly just wild 💫
What I liked about this story was that aliens and humans had already been exposed to each other. So when Nash comes home to Saluda, a large purple scaled alien, in his apartment, he’s more confused than terrified 😅💜
It’s interesting watching two beings learn about each other, their cultures, and find common ground. The different names for body parts, activities, and social dynamics leave so much room for confusion, which makes it so much fun!
Often, when I read, I end up liking one main character more than the other, but in this story, they both had endearing personalities. Nash wanted love and genuinely had a good heart. Saluda wanted to accomplish a life goal and feel fulfilled. Watching them grow together through that was pretty cool 💖
I also loved that the book included visual illustrations to help readers get an idea of what they looked like. I was really impressed with the artwork 👏🏻🔥
Intergalactic relationships are honestly just wild 💫
What I liked about this story was that aliens and humans had already been exposed to each other. So when Nash comes home to Saluda, a large purple scaled alien, in his apartment, he’s more confused than terrified 😅💜
It’s interesting watching two beings learn about each other, their cultures, and find common ground. The different names for body parts, activities, and social dynamics leave so much room for confusion, which makes it so much fun!
Often, when I read, I end up liking one main character more than the other, but in this story, they both had endearing personalities. Nash wanted love and genuinely had a good heart. Saluda wanted to accomplish a life goal and feel fulfilled. Watching them grow together through that was pretty cool 💖
I also loved that the book included visual illustrations to help readers get an idea of what they looked like. I was really impressed with the artwork 👏🏻🔥
April 24, 2026
Chris Redd is one of my favorite authors! I loved both of these characters and loved their transformations. I wanted to wrap Nash up in a blanket and slap Sal upside his head sometimes, but I loved how they changed together and were there with each other when the other needed them. This was a great read and I look forward to all of Chris Redd's books in the future!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 23, 2026
I’m always on the look for new mm sci fi authors which is why I gave this book a go and I wasn’t disappointed.
I went ahead and got the other books in the series too. The other books focused on relationships off world but this one involves Sal coming to earth.
Nash and Sal were beautiful together. I adored Nash: he had a heart of gold and he always did everything he could to help others. Sal fought his connection to Nash. He had a lot to learn about what real strength was and what he deemed as weak was far from the truth. He learnt the hard way but when he did, he was all in and went above and beyond.
The author did a brilliant job bringing the characters to life especially, Sal. His unique physical characteristics were mind blowing and added a whole load of something extra to their dynamics.
I’m loving this series! This is definitely an author to watch and I’ll definitely adding her to my favourite list. Can’t wait to read other books in this series.
This instalment was action packed and so steamy. I would highly recommend it.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
I went ahead and got the other books in the series too. The other books focused on relationships off world but this one involves Sal coming to earth.
Nash and Sal were beautiful together. I adored Nash: he had a heart of gold and he always did everything he could to help others. Sal fought his connection to Nash. He had a lot to learn about what real strength was and what he deemed as weak was far from the truth. He learnt the hard way but when he did, he was all in and went above and beyond.
The author did a brilliant job bringing the characters to life especially, Sal. His unique physical characteristics were mind blowing and added a whole load of something extra to their dynamics.
I’m loving this series! This is definitely an author to watch and I’ll definitely adding her to my favourite list. Can’t wait to read other books in this series.
This instalment was action packed and so steamy. I would highly recommend it.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow. This book exceeded my expectations. I didn't think it was possible for me to have a new favourite in this series, but I was wrong! THIS book is now my absolute favourite of the series, so far, and I'm excited to read whatever comes next.
Okay, with that said, what specifically did I like about this book, aside from everything? Strong, dynamic, colourful characters. Clear character growth (with a really great message). The setting - this time back on Earth - is also dynamic, interesting, and unique. The plot, along with the action throughout the book, again, is also unique and intriguing. The love story develops naturally and beautifully. There are cameos from previous book characters. And, and, and… so much more.
I guess what I'm saying is that Saluda isn't like the main alien characters from the previous novels, and Nash isn't like the previous human characters… they're unique both individually and as a couple. This is also true for the storyline and events throughout the book - markedly different from the previous books, which I really like because it's new, exciting, and I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next. So much so, in fact, that I read this book in less than 24 hours, and now I'm considering reading the series AGAIN from the beginning.
If it isn't clear yet, I absolutely recommend this book and this series. Also, I'd like to say that I'm grateful to the author and to BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read the book before publication. What you've read here is my honest opinion.
While it's not necessary, if you haven't yet, I'd recommend reading the books in order, as I believe it's a much better experience. Read and enjoy!
Okay, with that said, what specifically did I like about this book, aside from everything? Strong, dynamic, colourful characters. Clear character growth (with a really great message). The setting - this time back on Earth - is also dynamic, interesting, and unique. The plot, along with the action throughout the book, again, is also unique and intriguing. The love story develops naturally and beautifully. There are cameos from previous book characters. And, and, and… so much more.
I guess what I'm saying is that Saluda isn't like the main alien characters from the previous novels, and Nash isn't like the previous human characters… they're unique both individually and as a couple. This is also true for the storyline and events throughout the book - markedly different from the previous books, which I really like because it's new, exciting, and I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next. So much so, in fact, that I read this book in less than 24 hours, and now I'm considering reading the series AGAIN from the beginning.
If it isn't clear yet, I absolutely recommend this book and this series. Also, I'd like to say that I'm grateful to the author and to BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read the book before publication. What you've read here is my honest opinion.
While it's not necessary, if you haven't yet, I'd recommend reading the books in order, as I believe it's a much better experience. Read and enjoy!
April 26, 2026
I love when I story starts out with action and keeps moving at a fast pace like this one.
What's really great about this book and the entire series, is that each story has interconnected characters and plots, but each one is entirely different also. In this story, Saluda leaves Tern to go to Earth where he meets Nash, and the story takes place there. That's really refreshing rather than just rereading the same plot in each book of a series.
Saluda is a Drack alien looking to earn his warrior wings. That's how he gets duped into going to earth to fight in the Smash Clash ring. What it gets him is Nash, a lovely and gentle human, as a roommate.
Saluda think his worthiness depends on getting his warrior wings. Nash is a sweet pushover who can't say no. The main and side characters shine in this story. There is a lot of good and evil at play. Saluda has ideas about what's important in his life. The story is the process of him coming to the realization of what makes him a true warrior. It's a slow process and there is plenty of alien/human action taking place on earth intertwined in the story, but in the end Saluda learns what is really important in life and Nash and he get the hea.
What's really great about this book and the entire series, is that each story has interconnected characters and plots, but each one is entirely different also. In this story, Saluda leaves Tern to go to Earth where he meets Nash, and the story takes place there. That's really refreshing rather than just rereading the same plot in each book of a series.
Saluda is a Drack alien looking to earn his warrior wings. That's how he gets duped into going to earth to fight in the Smash Clash ring. What it gets him is Nash, a lovely and gentle human, as a roommate.
Saluda think his worthiness depends on getting his warrior wings. Nash is a sweet pushover who can't say no. The main and side characters shine in this story. There is a lot of good and evil at play. Saluda has ideas about what's important in his life. The story is the process of him coming to the realization of what makes him a true warrior. It's a slow process and there is plenty of alien/human action taking place on earth intertwined in the story, but in the end Saluda learns what is really important in life and Nash and he get the hea.
Review of advance copy
80% Smoke 20% Show is an interesting and exciting read that deals with interspecies relationships, refugees and an attempted military take-over. Nash is a human living on Earth. He is a physical therapist and singer song writer who works as a mentor on an addicts recovery group / choir. He meets Saluda who is his new roommate and a Drack. Saluda has come to Earth to become a fighter for Smash Clash, a ‘televised’ fighting programme in an attempt to become a winged warrior. This is a bit of a surprise to Nash who has not been checking his e-mails having been persuaded by his work mate / friend that emails are old school. Saluda is smoking hot in more than one way and Nash is soon lusting after him.
This is a romance above all things but it is also about trust, talking, kindness, protecting the innocent and standing for what is right even if it puts your life at risk. It delivers on all those fronts and is a great read. The dialogue is sparky and real. The characters are wonderful and the ending is just right.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a romance above all things but it is also about trust, talking, kindness, protecting the innocent and standing for what is right even if it puts your life at risk. It delivers on all those fronts and is a great read. The dialogue is sparky and real. The characters are wonderful and the ending is just right.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I love this series. I enjoy how the author has introduced us to the different worlds and cultures. The only disappointing part about earth is how realistically humanity is portrayed. That is a compliment to the author and a scathing review of humanity. This romance is so cute and I love how they work together to help people throughout the story. The sexy scenes are well written and spicy enough to increase my heart rate. The miscommunication trope is one of my least favorite but the crossed lines do make sense to the characters so I won't hold it against them. The story arc is smooth and links perfectly with the other books in the series. The hints for the next story are there and I'm excited to learn more about D'mtry.
I was happy to receive an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was happy to receive an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another amazing addition to the Alien Fated Mates series, and it does not disappoint!
This time on Earth! A futuristic Earth where a few aliens are settling, and not all humans are happy about it. We get glimpses of characters from Chris Redd’s previous books in the series, plus some fantastic new ones!
Expect fire and water, emotion and heat in this fast-paced SPICY M/M alien/human romance that’ll have you burning through pages to find out what happens next! The last 20% will bring you to tears, perched on the edge of your sofa, holding your breath.
Loads of fun, turmoil, ups and down, mixed signals, soft cozy vibes, heroism, and simple day-to-day pleasures to delight romance readers looking for a steamy read full of character growth and heart touching moments with no cliff hanger!
I highly recommend this series!
This time on Earth! A futuristic Earth where a few aliens are settling, and not all humans are happy about it. We get glimpses of characters from Chris Redd’s previous books in the series, plus some fantastic new ones!
Expect fire and water, emotion and heat in this fast-paced SPICY M/M alien/human romance that’ll have you burning through pages to find out what happens next! The last 20% will bring you to tears, perched on the edge of your sofa, holding your breath.
Loads of fun, turmoil, ups and down, mixed signals, soft cozy vibes, heroism, and simple day-to-day pleasures to delight romance readers looking for a steamy read full of character growth and heart touching moments with no cliff hanger!
I highly recommend this series!
Review of advance copy
I loved it! Saluda and Nash's story will make your heart pound and flutter at the same time. I could not put this book down! It's an amazing story to add to this alien-rich, fated-mates, HEA universe. I highly recommend reading this book. It can be read as a standalone, but I really do enjoy the entire series.
Talk about miscommunication, mutual pining, and sweaty, steamy, blush-inducing scenes! You can definitely have your romance cake and eat the spicy moments too! You'll have a front row seat to the personal growth, found family, second-chances, and drama in this alien romance. The emotions these characters face and internal battles they have to overcome are so encouraging and well worth the read to see their journey.
Talk about miscommunication, mutual pining, and sweaty, steamy, blush-inducing scenes! You can definitely have your romance cake and eat the spicy moments too! You'll have a front row seat to the personal growth, found family, second-chances, and drama in this alien romance. The emotions these characters face and internal battles they have to overcome are so encouraging and well worth the read to see their journey.
Currently Reading
April 16, 202680% Smoke 20% Show is an MM sci-fi romance featuring a dragon-like alien warrior and the human who redefines his idea of strength. Expect fated mates, found family, storm-charged heat, emotional growth, and a love that proves true power isn’t always loud.
Book three in the Alien Fated Mates series is approximately 100,000 words. While it can be read as a standalone, it is best enjoyed in order.
Available May 15, 2026
👽Fated Mates
🫣Virgin Hero
🐘Prehensile anatomy
🌶️🌶️🌶️Spicy/MM
🩳Track suits & Shiny Gold Shorts
🚫No Cliff Hanger
I hope you love Nash and Saluda!
ARC copies available until May 15, 2026!
Edit Review
Book three in the Alien Fated Mates series is approximately 100,000 words. While it can be read as a standalone, it is best enjoyed in order.
Available May 15, 2026
👽Fated Mates
🫣Virgin Hero
🐘Prehensile anatomy
🌶️🌶️🌶️Spicy/MM
🩳Track suits & Shiny Gold Shorts
🚫No Cliff Hanger
I hope you love Nash and Saluda!
ARC copies available until May 15, 2026!
Edit Review
Review of advance copy
80% Smoke 20% Show is the third book in the Alien Fated Mates series. As stated by the author "While it can be read as a standalone, it is best enjoyed in order." This is the story of Nash a human and Saluda an alien. This was a rollercoaster ride of emotions, mostly good ones. These two were perfect for each other. I loved watching Sal learn that strength isn't always about who is physically stronger. There were plenty of twists that kept the story interesting. I loved the characters and world building that went into this series. I can't wait to read whatever Chris Redd writes next. I would definitely recommend this book and series as 5 star reads.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an Advanced Reader Copy
This was a perfect book for Saluda. I loved it so much. It was so good I couldn’t put it down. I absolutely love how Chris world builds. All the characters backgrounds and the way the worlds work. This book was mainly on Earth instead of Tern and it did not disappoint in the least. Nash is the sweetest thing ever and just perfection. I hope this series will continue because I absolutely adore it.
This was a perfect book for Saluda. I loved it so much. It was so good I couldn’t put it down. I absolutely love how Chris world builds. All the characters backgrounds and the way the worlds work. This book was mainly on Earth instead of Tern and it did not disappoint in the least. Nash is the sweetest thing ever and just perfection. I hope this series will continue because I absolutely adore it.
Review of advance copy
Review to come
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews