What do you think?
Rate this book
Alien Contact for Idiots #1
Alien Contact for Idiots: A Native American scifi romance
WHAT’S A WOMAN GONNA DO WHEN
SHE'S QUARANTINED WITH AN
OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD ALIEN?
When natives from the future move their entire island nation to our Earth, Ell Harmon makes the first alien contact. The take-charge Seattle biologist has yearned to find intelligent aliens, and her dream comes true when she meets Prince Tro Eaglesbrood.
Ell and Tro are quarantined together, while the fearful world wonders whether the newcomers are friends or foes, neighbors or conquerors. Ell knows Tro is honorable and Kwadrans are peaceful … but how to convince the world?
They broadcast a show, which she flippantly titles Alien Contact for Idiots. Every day, Ell interviews Tro and tries to humanize Kwadrans. The show is wildly popular, and the romance developing on-screen between Ell and Tro reassures the world. If a smart woman like her can fall for a Kwadran, they must not be monsters, right?
But Tro’s duty lies with his people, and soon that duty threatens not only the show but Ell’s heart -- as well as the peace and survival of our world.
SHE'S QUARANTINED WITH AN
OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD ALIEN?
When natives from the future move their entire island nation to our Earth, Ell Harmon makes the first alien contact. The take-charge Seattle biologist has yearned to find intelligent aliens, and her dream comes true when she meets Prince Tro Eaglesbrood.
Ell and Tro are quarantined together, while the fearful world wonders whether the newcomers are friends or foes, neighbors or conquerors. Ell knows Tro is honorable and Kwadrans are peaceful … but how to convince the world?
They broadcast a show, which she flippantly titles Alien Contact for Idiots. Every day, Ell interviews Tro and tries to humanize Kwadrans. The show is wildly popular, and the romance developing on-screen between Ell and Tro reassures the world. If a smart woman like her can fall for a Kwadran, they must not be monsters, right?
But Tro’s duty lies with his people, and soon that duty threatens not only the show but Ell’s heart -- as well as the peace and survival of our world.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2015
89 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 26 reviews
July 15, 2017
This was a fun read, but in the end it was only mildly entertaining. This is a clever story of first contact, but it devolves into the silly and then the ridiculous. The main characters are solid, but the secondaries are cardboard.
I probably won't read the next one.
I probably won't read the next one.
May 17, 2016
I am always a sucker for a great science fiction book, and thoroughly enjoy when it is a well-written sci-fi romance. This book ticks both of those boxes and is also an entirely unique read. I have not read anything with a storyline even remotely similar to this and the way the author carried our the story, was also very different. Sometimes, this can result in disaster, as it is too out there, but this book is one of the few that has stepped well outside the envelope and pulled it off very well.
I found the unique nature of the book very intriguing, and this was the initial pull for me to read the book. I was drawn in by the blurb and very attracted to the cover. After the first few chapters introduced us to the story, giving us a lot of background detail and base, we jumped in to an exciting and very entertaining story.
I found that the author took the time to really create a foundation for the book, in the first chapters, which ultimately meant that the book flowed a lot better throughout. He also gave us very detailed characters and surrounding world. For me, this is one of the most important factors for enjoying a book. I liked that the characters had personality and each was able to interact and grow from their meeting one another. I also liked the depth and attention that was paid to the world. It meant that it was easy to jump in a be part of the story, but it also meant that the story flowed by and seemed to fit perfectly with the surroundings.
I found the pace to be very good indeed. It was swift enough to really keep me entertained, but more importantly, it slowed slightly, now and again, to allow for that all important detail to be added.
Overall, this was a really good read. I am looking forward to reading more from this author and highly recommend this book to sci-fi, romance lovers.
**Ireceived this book for free in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
I found the unique nature of the book very intriguing, and this was the initial pull for me to read the book. I was drawn in by the blurb and very attracted to the cover. After the first few chapters introduced us to the story, giving us a lot of background detail and base, we jumped in to an exciting and very entertaining story.
I found that the author took the time to really create a foundation for the book, in the first chapters, which ultimately meant that the book flowed a lot better throughout. He also gave us very detailed characters and surrounding world. For me, this is one of the most important factors for enjoying a book. I liked that the characters had personality and each was able to interact and grow from their meeting one another. I also liked the depth and attention that was paid to the world. It meant that it was easy to jump in a be part of the story, but it also meant that the story flowed by and seemed to fit perfectly with the surroundings.
I found the pace to be very good indeed. It was swift enough to really keep me entertained, but more importantly, it slowed slightly, now and again, to allow for that all important detail to be added.
Overall, this was a really good read. I am looking forward to reading more from this author and highly recommend this book to sci-fi, romance lovers.
**Ireceived this book for free in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
February 8, 2018
***3.25***
There is a good balance of science fiction, romance, action and comedy in this amusing title. The characters are well developed and I really liked the pacing of the storyline. It starts out a little slow, but stick with it, and you won't regret reading this.
When Ell meets Tro, she is determined to keep things strictly professional between them, but Tro is somewhat of a charmer and obviously, being an alien, he is an intriguing character. It isn't all about romance though as we get to learn about the Kwadrans and their strange language, and about their sudden arrival to earth. Like Ell, I was very interested to find out more about the Kwadrans and I was not disappointed by the information provided. The explanations of how space/time travel works were also kept simple enough for the layman, so it was relatively easy to understand.
The side characters are a great addition. Every single one of them, including the President of the United States are characters that I started to really adore, especially towards the end of the book. Basically, they seem like one big quirky (somewhat dysfunctional) family.
Also, important to note: despite the fact that three quarters of this book is set in the quarantine area, it is such an entertaining read that; much like the characters, I wasn't ready to have them leave when the time came!
To be honest, I didn't have a lot of expectations when I picked up this book to read and review. I didn't really like the cover, but the title was catchy enough that it got me curious, and in the end, I did have fun reading this.
There is a second book out already called Alien Contact for Kid Sisters, which is the story of Ell's younger sister, Marianne. If you end up liking this one, you might want to pick up the second book.
Memorable Quote
"Love was a sunrise of the soul that shone its glory into all the dark corners of your being."
RATING
Characters - ★★★★☆
Setting - ★★★☆☆
Writing - ★★★☆☆
Plot - ★★★☆☆
Overall - ★★★☆☆
________________________
Received an ARC of this in e-book format in exchange for an honest review.
________________________
Add me on Twitter!
There is a good balance of science fiction, romance, action and comedy in this amusing title. The characters are well developed and I really liked the pacing of the storyline. It starts out a little slow, but stick with it, and you won't regret reading this.
When Ell meets Tro, she is determined to keep things strictly professional between them, but Tro is somewhat of a charmer and obviously, being an alien, he is an intriguing character. It isn't all about romance though as we get to learn about the Kwadrans and their strange language, and about their sudden arrival to earth. Like Ell, I was very interested to find out more about the Kwadrans and I was not disappointed by the information provided. The explanations of how space/time travel works were also kept simple enough for the layman, so it was relatively easy to understand.
The side characters are a great addition. Every single one of them, including the President of the United States are characters that I started to really adore, especially towards the end of the book. Basically, they seem like one big quirky (somewhat dysfunctional) family.
Also, important to note: despite the fact that three quarters of this book is set in the quarantine area, it is such an entertaining read that; much like the characters, I wasn't ready to have them leave when the time came!
To be honest, I didn't have a lot of expectations when I picked up this book to read and review. I didn't really like the cover, but the title was catchy enough that it got me curious, and in the end, I did have fun reading this.
There is a second book out already called Alien Contact for Kid Sisters, which is the story of Ell's younger sister, Marianne. If you end up liking this one, you might want to pick up the second book.
Memorable Quote
"Love was a sunrise of the soul that shone its glory into all the dark corners of your being."
RATING
Characters - ★★★★☆
Setting - ★★★☆☆
Writing - ★★★☆☆
Plot - ★★★☆☆
Overall - ★★★☆☆
________________________
Received an ARC of this in e-book format in exchange for an honest review.
________________________
Add me on Twitter!
May 17, 2018
Review coming soon!
October 24, 2019
Do not waste your time
I hated this book so much I'm having trouble putting my thoughts together. First, I couldn't finish reading it it was so ridiculous i have no words. The geeky science fiction part was cool but the characters especially the female lead was annoying and grated on my nerves. She was supposed to be this really smart, cute scientist but more often than not she came across as a total idiot airhead who was a tease and a stuck up. The male lead was alright he was likeable with some skills. Actually he was the most redeeming part... No I take it back the mother in law was fantastic in a very shrewd way. When the author introduced the sister and the brother i tapped out i draw the line at how much ridiculousness i can take in one book. I would rate this book 1\5 stars but decided to give it 2 🌟s since the scientific, geeky, technical part was actually good and credible.
I hated this book so much I'm having trouble putting my thoughts together. First, I couldn't finish reading it it was so ridiculous i have no words. The geeky science fiction part was cool but the characters especially the female lead was annoying and grated on my nerves. She was supposed to be this really smart, cute scientist but more often than not she came across as a total idiot airhead who was a tease and a stuck up. The male lead was alright he was likeable with some skills. Actually he was the most redeeming part... No I take it back the mother in law was fantastic in a very shrewd way. When the author introduced the sister and the brother i tapped out i draw the line at how much ridiculousness i can take in one book. I would rate this book 1\5 stars but decided to give it 2 🌟s since the scientific, geeky, technical part was actually good and credible.
August 23, 2018
Funny.
When a duplicate of Vancouver Island suddenly appears slightly to the South of Our Vancouver Island the U.S. Government calls on a number of scientists to make first contact. The first of these is Ell (Elinor) Harmon who wrote a paper on extending the hand of friendship rather than being aggressive in such an event. It so happens that by doing that, by shaking hands, she and two of the newcomers end up in quarantine for three weeks. The government decided to take advantage of this to introduce the aliens to the world by interviewing them for a reality show. This show becomes known as 'Alien Contact for Idiots' based on a throw away remark made by Ell.
One of the 'Allen's' is Prince Tro of Kwadra (their name for Vancouver Island). Ell is immediately attracted to him while he decides to use her attraction to get the best for his people. As Robbie Burns said "the best laid plans of mice and men gang aft astray"!
This will appeal to anyone who enjoys their sf with some humour. Ed Hoornaert continues to show his understanding of women in the nicest way.
When a duplicate of Vancouver Island suddenly appears slightly to the South of Our Vancouver Island the U.S. Government calls on a number of scientists to make first contact. The first of these is Ell (Elinor) Harmon who wrote a paper on extending the hand of friendship rather than being aggressive in such an event. It so happens that by doing that, by shaking hands, she and two of the newcomers end up in quarantine for three weeks. The government decided to take advantage of this to introduce the aliens to the world by interviewing them for a reality show. This show becomes known as 'Alien Contact for Idiots' based on a throw away remark made by Ell.
One of the 'Allen's' is Prince Tro of Kwadra (their name for Vancouver Island). Ell is immediately attracted to him while he decides to use her attraction to get the best for his people. As Robbie Burns said "the best laid plans of mice and men gang aft astray"!
This will appeal to anyone who enjoys their sf with some humour. Ed Hoornaert continues to show his understanding of women in the nicest way.
November 17, 2019
I'm not sure how I missed reading this, since I've read others in the series. I'd like to think when we are faced with 1st Contact, we'd be more like Ell than the ridiculous fear mongers. It doesn't hurt that Tro is a great looking guy. At the beginning of the tv show introducing Tro and the aliens to the North Americans, she's so geeky she reminds me of Bones (tv series), but as she and Tro get to know each other, they ease into a comfortable camaraderie. I love the humorous scenes, esp. at the end. No spoiler but I could see this scene so perfectly. Great into to the series.
June 26, 2017
Fun story!
An interesting premise and reasonably believable characters. The plot moves along at a good pace with only a few minor holes. Lots of fun, without too much sex or violence, which is refreshing. So many authors seem convinced that there has to be a sex scene every third page. And don't even get me started on the level of violence and profanity in most books now... Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be happy to read more by Mr. Hoornaert in future
An interesting premise and reasonably believable characters. The plot moves along at a good pace with only a few minor holes. Lots of fun, without too much sex or violence, which is refreshing. So many authors seem convinced that there has to be a sex scene every third page. And don't even get me started on the level of violence and profanity in most books now... Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be happy to read more by Mr. Hoornaert in future
February 22, 2019
Entertaining & enjoyable
Entertaining & enjoyable read. SciFi, bit of action, drama & romance with splashes of humour. Maybe a little shallow in some respects & a little predictable in some respects but definitely an easy & enjoyable read nonetheless.
Entertaining & enjoyable read. SciFi, bit of action, drama & romance with splashes of humour. Maybe a little shallow in some respects & a little predictable in some respects but definitely an easy & enjoyable read nonetheless.
November 25, 2019
The sci-fi in this story was entertaining. The lead Dr. Harmon was annoying and too immature to be believable as a professor. The 'aliens' were well done and interesting. They kept me reading until the end.
May 31, 2020
Fantabulous page turning delight! Highly recommended
I don’t like to give spoilers on the books that I read. I believe the blurb on the back is enough for you to decide if you will read the book or not. If you choose to read, enjoy!
I don’t like to give spoilers on the books that I read. I believe the blurb on the back is enough for you to decide if you will read the book or not. If you choose to read, enjoy!
October 23, 2016
I'm not quite sure what I was expecting, but it wasn't to have this much fun. There's intrigue and angst and well-meaning busybodies. What's not to like?
December 25, 2016
Kept me up
This book is so engaging I had to keep reading all night! Love the basic plot as well as the romance!
This book is so engaging I had to keep reading all night! Love the basic plot as well as the romance!
November 26, 2016
Edward Hoonaert's "Alien Contact for Idiots" is a long, but charming romantic comedy with some notable sci-fi flourishes. But what makes it worth reading is a rare, imaginative characterization of one of society's most pigeonholed groups, the American Indian.
First, for those hardcore sci-fi fans picking up "Alien Contact for Idiots" in hopes of imbibing intergalactic intrigue and energy weaponry warfare galore...sorry. While exotic tech like "hop-flicks" and "nano molecular carbon shields" pop up, the bulk of sci-fi is geared towards advancing the time-tripping plot. However, author Hoonaert does score bonus points for crafting a plot that draws from what a "real" American first contact scenario with an "alien civilization" might involve. Though staying in the vein of "The Day the Earth Stood Still" scenario of public awareness of first contact, Hoonaert's quarantine situation (in which the visitors are eased, albeit comedically, into society) has been theorized in places such as a 2004 "Popular Mechanics" article as government protocol for handling first contact. It even has some loose historical basis in the since-repealed Title 14, Section 1211 of the Code of Federal Regulations' "Extra-Terrestrial Exposure Law." Of course, the book's greater comedic and romantic themes douce any hopes of this being some great E.T. expose.
As for the book's characters and pace? Early on, things don't seem promising. Any suspense about whether or not the visitors to the modern American Great Northwest are indeed "alien" is all but dashed by an overenthusiastic blurb that heralds, "When American Indians [officially "Kwadrans"] from the future move their entire island nation to our Earth, Ell Harmon makes the first alien contact." Furthermore, the innovative "human" liaison is a rather typically-drawn heroine in Dr. Elinor "Ell" Harmon: The smart, sassy white career-woman who has everything (including academic and political clout and even a name akin to the heroine of "Contact")--everything except true love. Sadly, too many such cookie cutter characterizations inhabit many modern romances, fantasies, and other genres--more playing to the base, perhaps? While the clash of cultures concept is obvious, it would have been more fascinating to have made Ell Asian or some other racial persuasion, and then read the results.
But what the female protagonist lacks in excitement and originality is more than made up for by author Hoonaert's painstaking crafting of the Kwadran civilization and its charismatic leader Prince Tro Eaglesbrood. This is the story's strongest selling point and a bold multicultural move.
American Indians are arguably popular entertainment's least represented and statically portrayed racial groups. Whereas blacks and Asians have risen from stereotypical roles in literature and film to become prominent, groundbreaking characters, American Indians are still rarely afforded more than pigeonholed parts in Westerns or as solemn naturalists. But not here. The Kwadarans are remarkably technologically advanced and captivating in their ability to transport their entire nation back in time--a nation that, in the future, is the world's most advanced! And what seems like a turn towards cheap pidgin English laughs and stereotypical spiritualist tendencies takes a sharp turn into intelligent comedy and social commentary that is driven in large part by Tro and his clever adaptation to Ell and the idiosyncrasies of the past.
So despite a lackluster leading lady and over length, at 300 + pages, "Alien Contact for Idiots" maintains a compelling plot and palpable sense of place that are bolstered by a refreshing and reassuring vision of the American Indian as capable of technological, linguistic, and even romantic prowess in popular fiction.
First, for those hardcore sci-fi fans picking up "Alien Contact for Idiots" in hopes of imbibing intergalactic intrigue and energy weaponry warfare galore...sorry. While exotic tech like "hop-flicks" and "nano molecular carbon shields" pop up, the bulk of sci-fi is geared towards advancing the time-tripping plot. However, author Hoonaert does score bonus points for crafting a plot that draws from what a "real" American first contact scenario with an "alien civilization" might involve. Though staying in the vein of "The Day the Earth Stood Still" scenario of public awareness of first contact, Hoonaert's quarantine situation (in which the visitors are eased, albeit comedically, into society) has been theorized in places such as a 2004 "Popular Mechanics" article as government protocol for handling first contact. It even has some loose historical basis in the since-repealed Title 14, Section 1211 of the Code of Federal Regulations' "Extra-Terrestrial Exposure Law." Of course, the book's greater comedic and romantic themes douce any hopes of this being some great E.T. expose.
As for the book's characters and pace? Early on, things don't seem promising. Any suspense about whether or not the visitors to the modern American Great Northwest are indeed "alien" is all but dashed by an overenthusiastic blurb that heralds, "When American Indians [officially "Kwadrans"] from the future move their entire island nation to our Earth, Ell Harmon makes the first alien contact." Furthermore, the innovative "human" liaison is a rather typically-drawn heroine in Dr. Elinor "Ell" Harmon: The smart, sassy white career-woman who has everything (including academic and political clout and even a name akin to the heroine of "Contact")--everything except true love. Sadly, too many such cookie cutter characterizations inhabit many modern romances, fantasies, and other genres--more playing to the base, perhaps? While the clash of cultures concept is obvious, it would have been more fascinating to have made Ell Asian or some other racial persuasion, and then read the results.
But what the female protagonist lacks in excitement and originality is more than made up for by author Hoonaert's painstaking crafting of the Kwadran civilization and its charismatic leader Prince Tro Eaglesbrood. This is the story's strongest selling point and a bold multicultural move.
American Indians are arguably popular entertainment's least represented and statically portrayed racial groups. Whereas blacks and Asians have risen from stereotypical roles in literature and film to become prominent, groundbreaking characters, American Indians are still rarely afforded more than pigeonholed parts in Westerns or as solemn naturalists. But not here. The Kwadarans are remarkably technologically advanced and captivating in their ability to transport their entire nation back in time--a nation that, in the future, is the world's most advanced! And what seems like a turn towards cheap pidgin English laughs and stereotypical spiritualist tendencies takes a sharp turn into intelligent comedy and social commentary that is driven in large part by Tro and his clever adaptation to Ell and the idiosyncrasies of the past.
So despite a lackluster leading lady and over length, at 300 + pages, "Alien Contact for Idiots" maintains a compelling plot and palpable sense of place that are bolstered by a refreshing and reassuring vision of the American Indian as capable of technological, linguistic, and even romantic prowess in popular fiction.
February 25, 2017
Cute 1st contact story.
May 10, 2016
This was a wildly entertaining new take on alien romance! The storyline was original and intriguing, the characters were very complex and realistic, and the dialogue was spot on and entertaining. The story starts off somewhat slow, but eventually takes off with a blast and was just absolutely gripping! I read a lot of intergalactic romance books- but this one was unique in it's own way. I love how the author tied in Native American culture with the alien race- it was very intriguing! The characters were very lovable and entertaining, making me actually laugh out loud at a few parts. The romance was sweet and intricate, leaving me racing to see what would happen next between them. This is a wildly entertaining book that I would recommend to anybody- even if you're not really into alien romances!
June 6, 2015
This book started out slow, but stick with it; it is a long story--340 pages. It took some time for the author to establish the world and the characters. It's written in multiple points of view, and I think that took extra time for me to get everyone straight.
At about the midway point, the story really took off and I didn't want to put the book down. I literally laughed out loud. Ell and Tro are a fun couple to read. The author is deft at crafting humor in his words.
The premise was interesting. And it was fascinating how Hoornaert wove Native American culture with "alien" culture. Very creative storytelling.
And I didn't realize until I'd finished ACfI that there is a sequel. I will be reading that!
At about the midway point, the story really took off and I didn't want to put the book down. I literally laughed out loud. Ell and Tro are a fun couple to read. The author is deft at crafting humor in his words.
The premise was interesting. And it was fascinating how Hoornaert wove Native American culture with "alien" culture. Very creative storytelling.
And I didn't realize until I'd finished ACfI that there is a sequel. I will be reading that!
August 22, 2015
A well paced, well constructed story with fun characters and complex undertones. I really enjoyed the story of connection, trust, and finding love in unexpected places. Ell is a strong, loveable character with a wonderfully curious heart. Tro is a complicated– and sexy– mystery with the burden of responsibility on his shoulders. One of the parts I found most enjoyable about the story was the way the aliens interacted with the humans. It was realistic and thought-provoking, especially where language was concerned. A definite recommend for fans of literally star-crossed romance and how connections define us as human beings.
February 19, 2017
After reading Newborn, I knew I wanted to read the previous books in the series. Alien Contact for Idiots is book one. It tells the story of Ell Harmon, a scientist chosen to be among the first to make contact with aliens on Kwadra, an island that splashed down next to Vancouver Island in our world, but was originally located on a parallel earth in a future dimension.
It’s a delightful story, full of twists and turns. Hoornaert writes sci-fi romance, and be forewarned, at least one of the scenes is extra-spicy.
It’s a delightful story, full of twists and turns. Hoornaert writes sci-fi romance, and be forewarned, at least one of the scenes is extra-spicy.
April 13, 2020
I would read it again
This was my first Edward Hoornaert book, and I'm glad I purchased it. The story was imaginative spiced with romance and comedy. I mean come on who hasn't image an alternate universe for earth and what would happen should the two meet.
In the series we get to find out 😎
I'm off to the next installment in the Alien Contact series.
This was my first Edward Hoornaert book, and I'm glad I purchased it. The story was imaginative spiced with romance and comedy. I mean come on who hasn't image an alternate universe for earth and what would happen should the two meet.
In the series we get to find out 😎
I'm off to the next installment in the Alien Contact series.
February 25, 2017
What an interesting twist to the alien visitation theme!
Read full review in the 2015 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2015 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read
September 5, 20153.0/5.0
What an interesting twist to the alien visitation theme!
Read full review in the 2015 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
What an interesting twist to the alien visitation theme!
Read full review in the 2015 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
January 24, 2021
The reality show with aliens plot was fun and new. I liked seeing how Ell and Tro worked through everything.
The ending became a bit convoluted and fell apart for me though. I almost wish it was longer so all the subplots could be explored better and tied together in a more satisfying way.
The ending became a bit convoluted and fell apart for me though. I almost wish it was longer so all the subplots could be explored better and tied together in a more satisfying way.
October 9, 2016
Fun read
This felt real, like it could actually happen. The science part at least. I did like that it wasn't insta love, although insta lust did play a part.
This felt real, like it could actually happen. The science part at least. I did like that it wasn't insta love, although insta lust did play a part.
Read
May 18, 2019And this one 2
Displaying 1 - 25 of 26 reviews