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GAL Friday #2
Badass Alien Boss
He’s a battle-scarred warrior with something to prove. She’s the bodyguard assigned to keep him alive—whether he likes it or not.
After a brutal attack leaves former military hero Ruyn gravely injured, his combat career is over. Stuck planetside and recovering, he reluctantly joins his brother’s company while he rebuilds his strength. But his brother is convinced the assault wasn’t a random act of violence. Someone wanted Ruyn dead—and they may try again.
Enter Michaela Perine.
A former investigator and elite bodyguard, Michaela is hired through GAL Friday—Galactic Auxiliary Labor—to protect Ruyn. There’s just one Ruyn would never agree to having a bodyguard. So his brother presents her as the newest administrative assistant.
Michaela can handle danger, criminals, and impossible assignments. Pretending to be a secretary for a stubborn, intimidating alien warrior? That may be her toughest job yet.
When Ruyn discovers the truth, sparks fly. Furious at the deception and determined to reclaim his independence, he clashes with the fierce human woman assigned to protect him. But the more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the attraction simmering beneath their arguments.
As new threats emerge and the mystery behind the attack deepens, Michaela and Ruyn find themselves caught in a deadly conspiracy. To survive, they'll have to trust each other completely.
Because someone is still hunting Ruyn.
And losing his heart to his bodyguard may be the most dangerous battle of all.
After a brutal attack leaves former military hero Ruyn gravely injured, his combat career is over. Stuck planetside and recovering, he reluctantly joins his brother’s company while he rebuilds his strength. But his brother is convinced the assault wasn’t a random act of violence. Someone wanted Ruyn dead—and they may try again.
Enter Michaela Perine.
A former investigator and elite bodyguard, Michaela is hired through GAL Friday—Galactic Auxiliary Labor—to protect Ruyn. There’s just one Ruyn would never agree to having a bodyguard. So his brother presents her as the newest administrative assistant.
Michaela can handle danger, criminals, and impossible assignments. Pretending to be a secretary for a stubborn, intimidating alien warrior? That may be her toughest job yet.
When Ruyn discovers the truth, sparks fly. Furious at the deception and determined to reclaim his independence, he clashes with the fierce human woman assigned to protect him. But the more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the attraction simmering beneath their arguments.
As new threats emerge and the mystery behind the attack deepens, Michaela and Ruyn find themselves caught in a deadly conspiracy. To survive, they'll have to trust each other completely.
Because someone is still hunting Ruyn.
And losing his heart to his bodyguard may be the most dangerous battle of all.
- GenresScience Fiction
215 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 10, 2026
About the author
Cara Bristol
110 books944 followersUSA Today bestselling author Cara Bristol writes science fiction romance about tough alien and cyborg heroes who fall hard for sassy heroines.
Cara is a homebody who married a wanderer. When she’s not writing or being distracted by squirrels cavorting outside her office window, she enjoys reading and traveling the world with her husband. Topping her bucket list is visiting all seven continents and petting a squirrel.
Visit her website to get a free sci-fi romance.
Cara is a homebody who married a wanderer. When she’s not writing or being distracted by squirrels cavorting outside her office window, she enjoys reading and traveling the world with her husband. Topping her bucket list is visiting all seven continents and petting a squirrel.
Visit her website to get a free sci-fi romance.
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August 4, 2026His combat career is over due to a severe injury, then he’s assaulted when he takes up new work for his brother’s company so his brother brings on a female bodyguard posing as his assistant. This office romance could not be more explosive. Cara Bristol’s exciting, steamy, and yet flirty alien romances are an out of this world treat that I can’t miss.
My full review will post at That's What I'm Talking About 10.8.26.
My full review will post at That's What I'm Talking About 10.8.26.
Review of advance copy received from Author
★★★★★ Even Better Than the First!
Badass Alien Boss is the newest book from Cara Bristol and the second in her Gal Friday series. I enjoyed the first book, but this one was even better. It grabbed me from the very beginning when I immediately felt for soldier whose career had ended before he was ready.
Plus, it has so many of the tropes I love! If you’re an enemies-to-lovers fan, this one’s for you. If you like feisty, badass women, this one’s for you. And if you like your sci-fi romance with extra steam on the side, you’ll definitely enjoy this one, because the author turns up the heat. Add plenty of action to the mix, and the story keeps moving right along.
Ruyn is an alien military warrior whose career with the Space Force ended after a vicious attack left him with injuries too extensive to continue serving. Now he works for his brother in what Ruyn considers a pity job. To make matters worse, his brother has hired him an assistant through Gal Friday, an interplanetary staffing agency. Ruyn doesn’t need an assistant, and he certainly doesn’t want one. When he discovers Michaela isn’t really there to assist him but is an ex-military bodyguard hired to protect him, he’s determined to get rid of her one way or another.
Michaela, however, has no intention of quietly going away. She has plans to start her own protection agency, and she knows exactly what she’s capable of. After Ruyn sees her in action and gets a firsthand look at both her reasoning and her combat skills, he reluctantly begins to realize she’s far more capable than he initially gave her credit for.
As they discover there’s much more to each other than either expected, their relationship shifts from irritation and resignation to respect, attraction, and eventually something much deeper. And, well, we romance readers know where that can lead.
This is one book I really hated to see end. Ruyn and Michaela were such fun characters, moving from snarky and witty to caring and loving without losing the spark that made them so entertaining together. And the plot twists? I won’t give anything away, but I loved where they took me.
Funny, action-packed, romantic, and seriously steamy, Badass Alien Boss was a great read and my favorite of the Gal Friday series so far. I can’t wait to see what Cara Bristol gives us next.
Badass Alien Boss is the newest book from Cara Bristol and the second in her Gal Friday series. I enjoyed the first book, but this one was even better. It grabbed me from the very beginning when I immediately felt for soldier whose career had ended before he was ready.
Plus, it has so many of the tropes I love! If you’re an enemies-to-lovers fan, this one’s for you. If you like feisty, badass women, this one’s for you. And if you like your sci-fi romance with extra steam on the side, you’ll definitely enjoy this one, because the author turns up the heat. Add plenty of action to the mix, and the story keeps moving right along.
Ruyn is an alien military warrior whose career with the Space Force ended after a vicious attack left him with injuries too extensive to continue serving. Now he works for his brother in what Ruyn considers a pity job. To make matters worse, his brother has hired him an assistant through Gal Friday, an interplanetary staffing agency. Ruyn doesn’t need an assistant, and he certainly doesn’t want one. When he discovers Michaela isn’t really there to assist him but is an ex-military bodyguard hired to protect him, he’s determined to get rid of her one way or another.
Michaela, however, has no intention of quietly going away. She has plans to start her own protection agency, and she knows exactly what she’s capable of. After Ruyn sees her in action and gets a firsthand look at both her reasoning and her combat skills, he reluctantly begins to realize she’s far more capable than he initially gave her credit for.
As they discover there’s much more to each other than either expected, their relationship shifts from irritation and resignation to respect, attraction, and eventually something much deeper. And, well, we romance readers know where that can lead.
This is one book I really hated to see end. Ruyn and Michaela were such fun characters, moving from snarky and witty to caring and loving without losing the spark that made them so entertaining together. And the plot twists? I won’t give anything away, but I loved where they took me.
Funny, action-packed, romantic, and seriously steamy, Badass Alien Boss was a great read and my favorite of the Gal Friday series so far. I can’t wait to see what Cara Bristol gives us next.
August 12, 2026
I enjoyed this story. It had romance, action, and mystery. It was great to see how everything was tied together in the end especially with some of the plot twists that I didn't see coming. The world building was also done well. Enough information was given to explain things without the explanation being over complicated.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2026
Yawn
Referring to someone as an "it" when you don't know their gender is a pretty crappy thing to do. Be better.
Referring to someone as an "it" when you don't know their gender is a pretty crappy thing to do. Be better.
Review of advance copy received from Author
He lost the life that defined him, then found someone worth fighting for.
After a brutal ambush ends Ruyn’s military career, the decorated alien warrior is left scarred, injured, and furious at the world. The last thing he wants is help, especially from Michaela, the stubborn administrative assistant his brother hires. What he doesn’t know is that she’s really a bodyguard investigating who tried to kill him.
When Ruyn uncovers the deception, their already tense working relationship turns combative. He resents what her presence says about his limitations, while Michaela refuses to let his pride interfere with keeping him alive. Their arguments sharpen into respect as she proves she’s far more capable than he assumed, and he reveals the discipline, intelligence, and vulnerability beneath his anger.
As the investigation exposes cloaked attackers, corporate corruption, and ties to the Prellim Cartel, Michaela and Ruyn become partners. Their attraction grows through shared meals, private honesty, and the trust built each time they choose to rely on one another. What begins as reluctant proximity turns intensely physical, then deepens into a commitment neither expected.
Michaela never treats Ruyn as damaged, and her faith helps him stop measuring himself against the warrior he used to be. Ruyn, in turn, sees beyond her competence to the woman carrying everyone else’s safety on her shoulders. When danger reaches what they thought was safe, Ruyn tries to sacrifice their future to protect her, but Michaela refuses to let fear decide for them.
This is a wounded-hero, bodyguard romance built on enemies-to-lovers tension, grumpy-sunshine friction, and hard-earned trust. Beneath the suspense and high heat, it’s about identity after loss, choosing partnership over pride, and refusing to abandon love when survival makes hope feel dangerous.
The Elevator Pitch: A battle-scarred alien warrior wants nothing more than to reclaim his independence, until the woman assigned to protect him refuses to let him face the darkness alone. As danger closes in from every direction, trust gives way to desire, and two stubborn hearts discover that the greatest battles aren't always fought on the battlefield. Their future depends on uncovering the truth before fear, betrayal, and unseen enemies steal the life they're only beginning to build.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥 Hot
After a brutal ambush ends Ruyn’s military career, the decorated alien warrior is left scarred, injured, and furious at the world. The last thing he wants is help, especially from Michaela, the stubborn administrative assistant his brother hires. What he doesn’t know is that she’s really a bodyguard investigating who tried to kill him.
When Ruyn uncovers the deception, their already tense working relationship turns combative. He resents what her presence says about his limitations, while Michaela refuses to let his pride interfere with keeping him alive. Their arguments sharpen into respect as she proves she’s far more capable than he assumed, and he reveals the discipline, intelligence, and vulnerability beneath his anger.
As the investigation exposes cloaked attackers, corporate corruption, and ties to the Prellim Cartel, Michaela and Ruyn become partners. Their attraction grows through shared meals, private honesty, and the trust built each time they choose to rely on one another. What begins as reluctant proximity turns intensely physical, then deepens into a commitment neither expected.
Michaela never treats Ruyn as damaged, and her faith helps him stop measuring himself against the warrior he used to be. Ruyn, in turn, sees beyond her competence to the woman carrying everyone else’s safety on her shoulders. When danger reaches what they thought was safe, Ruyn tries to sacrifice their future to protect her, but Michaela refuses to let fear decide for them.
This is a wounded-hero, bodyguard romance built on enemies-to-lovers tension, grumpy-sunshine friction, and hard-earned trust. Beneath the suspense and high heat, it’s about identity after loss, choosing partnership over pride, and refusing to abandon love when survival makes hope feel dangerous.
The Elevator Pitch: A battle-scarred alien warrior wants nothing more than to reclaim his independence, until the woman assigned to protect him refuses to let him face the darkness alone. As danger closes in from every direction, trust gives way to desire, and two stubborn hearts discover that the greatest battles aren't always fought on the battlefield. Their future depends on uncovering the truth before fear, betrayal, and unseen enemies steal the life they're only beginning to build.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥 Hot
Review of advance copy received from Author
NIGHT AND DAY, I’M YOUR SHADOW
Wow! This GAL Friday book has amazing twists and turns you don’t see coming. Then it is out of the ordinary—for a bodyguard to be a female, Michaela Perine, hired to protect Ruyn. The story is full of action, adventure, and surprises.
“He’s a battle-scarred warrior with something to prove. She’s the bodyguard assigned to keep him alive—whether he likes it or not.”
Michaela Perine, of Earth, has been working for GAL Friday—Galactic Auxiliary Labor for a couple of years now. As a former investigator and elite bodyguard, she has been recently hired for a six-month stint by Korsan of Korsan Enterprises to guard his younger brother, Ruyn, who was attacked by four masked men and left severely injured, ruining his military career. She is to appear as his personal assistant at Korsan Enterprises, even having an apartment next door to him. It will become a battle of wills—and one that Michaela will take seriously, whether or not Ruyn wants her there or not.
This was such a page-turning tale and full of angst, capitulations, and attraction. I like how Michaela doesn’t treat Ruyn as broken, but convinces him that they can work together, especially when she starts getting evidence of the attack and what appears to be incompetence and even possibly a cover-up. It doesn’t take long for Ruyn to see her worth and change his mind about her staying. While it will never bring back his military career, with the two of them together, they start piecing bits and pieces of problems within his brother’s company.
“The more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the attraction simmering beneath their arguments.”
The story has the good, the bad, and the ugly among aliens. The chemistry between Michaela and Ruyn is present, and while Michaela has never been involved with a client before, she can’t deny that Ruyn is different. They make an excellent team, respect one another, and work together to try and discover why there are discrepancies at some of the locations. Their investigation becomes a life-and-death situation that baffles them—and even has doctors needing to know what is happening. Will they get their answers before the end of her assignment, and where will that leave these two? The story doesn’t have mild sex scenes between a human and an alien. Also, by the end of the story, you will get some answers!
Wow! This GAL Friday book has amazing twists and turns you don’t see coming. Then it is out of the ordinary—for a bodyguard to be a female, Michaela Perine, hired to protect Ruyn. The story is full of action, adventure, and surprises.
“He’s a battle-scarred warrior with something to prove. She’s the bodyguard assigned to keep him alive—whether he likes it or not.”
Michaela Perine, of Earth, has been working for GAL Friday—Galactic Auxiliary Labor for a couple of years now. As a former investigator and elite bodyguard, she has been recently hired for a six-month stint by Korsan of Korsan Enterprises to guard his younger brother, Ruyn, who was attacked by four masked men and left severely injured, ruining his military career. She is to appear as his personal assistant at Korsan Enterprises, even having an apartment next door to him. It will become a battle of wills—and one that Michaela will take seriously, whether or not Ruyn wants her there or not.
This was such a page-turning tale and full of angst, capitulations, and attraction. I like how Michaela doesn’t treat Ruyn as broken, but convinces him that they can work together, especially when she starts getting evidence of the attack and what appears to be incompetence and even possibly a cover-up. It doesn’t take long for Ruyn to see her worth and change his mind about her staying. While it will never bring back his military career, with the two of them together, they start piecing bits and pieces of problems within his brother’s company.
“The more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the attraction simmering beneath their arguments.”
The story has the good, the bad, and the ugly among aliens. The chemistry between Michaela and Ruyn is present, and while Michaela has never been involved with a client before, she can’t deny that Ruyn is different. They make an excellent team, respect one another, and work together to try and discover why there are discrepancies at some of the locations. Their investigation becomes a life-and-death situation that baffles them—and even has doctors needing to know what is happening. Will they get their answers before the end of her assignment, and where will that leave these two? The story doesn’t have mild sex scenes between a human and an alien. Also, by the end of the story, you will get some answers!
August 13, 2026
Ruyn and the Bodyguard . . .
Ruyn is a warrior hero injured in a brutal attack that permanently ends his combat career. Because he is stationed on the planet to recover, he joins his brother Korsan’s company so he can regain his strength. His brother is concerned that the assault may have been deliberate and probably intended to be lethal. So he hires human Michaela Perine to be Ruyn's bodyguard, fully expecting an argument. Michaela is both a clever investigator and skilled bodyguard, holding two black belts in Earth martial arts, and is a master-level sharpshooter with handheld and long-range laser weapons. But Korsan was more interested in her skill at identifying possible threats and conducting her own investigation to figure out who attacked Ruyn. And since he knows Ruyn would never agree to having a bodyguard at all, his brother presents her as their new administrative assistant who will be assigned to Ruyn. Michaela easily handles danger, criminals, and otherwise impossible assignments -- but working as a secretary to the stubborn warrior is the most difficult job she has been tasked to do. Needless to say, it is unpleasant for everyone when Ruyn discovers the truth. However, their spending time together does eventually allow attraction and respect to develop between them. With further threats, it begins to appear that a deadly conspiracy is truly at play and the violence against Ruyn isn't going to end. And he has his suspicions about what might be going on. Can he and Michaela learn to trust each other and to fight together? Or will their partnership instead make her an identified target as well? Who could be threatened enough to continue such an attack? Will they find out what is behind this?
Ruyn is a warrior hero injured in a brutal attack that permanently ends his combat career. Because he is stationed on the planet to recover, he joins his brother Korsan’s company so he can regain his strength. His brother is concerned that the assault may have been deliberate and probably intended to be lethal. So he hires human Michaela Perine to be Ruyn's bodyguard, fully expecting an argument. Michaela is both a clever investigator and skilled bodyguard, holding two black belts in Earth martial arts, and is a master-level sharpshooter with handheld and long-range laser weapons. But Korsan was more interested in her skill at identifying possible threats and conducting her own investigation to figure out who attacked Ruyn. And since he knows Ruyn would never agree to having a bodyguard at all, his brother presents her as their new administrative assistant who will be assigned to Ruyn. Michaela easily handles danger, criminals, and otherwise impossible assignments -- but working as a secretary to the stubborn warrior is the most difficult job she has been tasked to do. Needless to say, it is unpleasant for everyone when Ruyn discovers the truth. However, their spending time together does eventually allow attraction and respect to develop between them. With further threats, it begins to appear that a deadly conspiracy is truly at play and the violence against Ruyn isn't going to end. And he has his suspicions about what might be going on. Can he and Michaela learn to trust each other and to fight together? Or will their partnership instead make her an identified target as well? Who could be threatened enough to continue such an attack? Will they find out what is behind this?
August 15, 2026
This was a really interesting alien romance with a lot more going on than just the relationship between the main characters. The heroine is hired as a bodyguard and assistant for an ex-military man who has just survived an assassination attempt, and the two of them soon find themselves trying to figure out who was responsible.
I particularly enjoyed how many layers the story has. Almost everyone seems to be hiding something, from the hero's brother to a former defense minister who has now become a café owner. As the story progresses, more secrets and connections are revealed, and there are quite a few twists and turns that I didn't see coming.
I also liked the way seemingly straightforward details turned out to have unexpected explanations. Even the allergic reactions aren't necessarily what you initially assume they are, which added another interesting layer to the mystery.
The romance develops alongside all of this rather than completely taking over the story, which worked well for me. There is enough mystery and intrigue to keep things moving while the relationship gradually develops.
Overall, this was an engaging alien romance with a layered plot, plenty of secrets, and some genuinely unexpected twists. I enjoyed trying to figure out what was really going on and seeing how all the different pieces eventually fit together.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I particularly enjoyed how many layers the story has. Almost everyone seems to be hiding something, from the hero's brother to a former defense minister who has now become a café owner. As the story progresses, more secrets and connections are revealed, and there are quite a few twists and turns that I didn't see coming.
I also liked the way seemingly straightforward details turned out to have unexpected explanations. Even the allergic reactions aren't necessarily what you initially assume they are, which added another interesting layer to the mystery.
The romance develops alongside all of this rather than completely taking over the story, which worked well for me. There is enough mystery and intrigue to keep things moving while the relationship gradually develops.
Overall, this was an engaging alien romance with a layered plot, plenty of secrets, and some genuinely unexpected twists. I enjoyed trying to figure out what was really going on and seeing how all the different pieces eventually fit together.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2026
This is the second book in the GAL (Galactic Auxiliary Labor) Friday series. Each book is a standalone read. This is the story of Ruyn and Michaela Perine. Ruyn had his military career with Space Force ended by a brutal attack that left him gravely injured. He had joined his brother's company planetside while he heals and gets his strength back. His brother believes the attack wasn't random and that someone wants Ruyn dead. So he secretly hires him a bodyguard and has her pose as Ruyn's newest administrative assistant. Michaela is a former investigator and elite bodyguard. She is hired through GAL. Michaela has been through many dangerous and difficult assignments, but being the administrative assistant to a grumpy, stubborn and intimidating alien might be the hardest assignment yet. This is their story. The book is well written and easy to read. I enjoyed watching the relationship grow as opposition slowly turned to respect and attraction. This is a romance but there are plenty of twists to keep you wondering what will happen next. I enjoyed the snarky dialog as they feel each other out. The book is funny and romantic with a side helping of action. I enjoyed this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Solving The Puzzle
Ruyn didn’t want or need a personal assistant and definitely no bodyguard. He might be badly injured, but he still has his pride and badass experiences serving in the Luturnan Space Force. And he can’t fire the woman his brother hired. Being with Michaela, seeing how she behaves in a familiar way as did his former colleagues, he slowly admits to himself that he is intrigued and starting to fall for her. While Michaela submitted to his attractiveness and admired his prowess even with his limitations due to his injury, at one point both find their sexual tension too hard to resist.
But Ruyn stumbles over some financial inconsistencies in the books of his brother’s investment firm. It leads to some unpleasant discoveries.
An enjoyable romantic story between a vulnerable, strong man, who has to adjust his expectations of his life and a strong, intelligent woman, wanting to start her own, independent security firm. Both working together to solve the puzzle.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ruyn didn’t want or need a personal assistant and definitely no bodyguard. He might be badly injured, but he still has his pride and badass experiences serving in the Luturnan Space Force. And he can’t fire the woman his brother hired. Being with Michaela, seeing how she behaves in a familiar way as did his former colleagues, he slowly admits to himself that he is intrigued and starting to fall for her. While Michaela submitted to his attractiveness and admired his prowess even with his limitations due to his injury, at one point both find their sexual tension too hard to resist.
But Ruyn stumbles over some financial inconsistencies in the books of his brother’s investment firm. It leads to some unpleasant discoveries.
An enjoyable romantic story between a vulnerable, strong man, who has to adjust his expectations of his life and a strong, intelligent woman, wanting to start her own, independent security firm. Both working together to solve the puzzle.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Awesome!
Book two in the GAL Friday series in even stronger than the first. Don’t start reading it until you have time to finish it. You won’t be able to put it down!
Michaela has been hired as a bodyguard for an injured alien. His brother is concerned that whoever attacked him will come back and finish the job. But he knows Ruyn will reject that so he convinces her to go in undercover.
Ruyn absolutely refuses to have Michaela as a personal assistant. When he confronts his brother and tells him to fire her he finally confesses that she is really his bodyguard. He likes that even less!
Ruyn and Michaela butt heads from the get go, but Michaela refuses to back down. She says she won’t leave until she figures out who attacked him. So he reluctantly agrees to work with her. Slowly they make progress, but every clue just brings more questions. This book is a real page-turner with lots of twists and turns and unexpected surprises. Don’t miss it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Book two in the GAL Friday series in even stronger than the first. Don’t start reading it until you have time to finish it. You won’t be able to put it down!
Michaela has been hired as a bodyguard for an injured alien. His brother is concerned that whoever attacked him will come back and finish the job. But he knows Ruyn will reject that so he convinces her to go in undercover.
Ruyn absolutely refuses to have Michaela as a personal assistant. When he confronts his brother and tells him to fire her he finally confesses that she is really his bodyguard. He likes that even less!
Ruyn and Michaela butt heads from the get go, but Michaela refuses to back down. She says she won’t leave until she figures out who attacked him. So he reluctantly agrees to work with her. Slowly they make progress, but every clue just brings more questions. This book is a real page-turner with lots of twists and turns and unexpected surprises. Don’t miss it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Badass Alien Boss is the second book in the GAL Friday series, following Ruyn, a battle scarred alien warrior recovering from a brutal attack, and Michaela, an elite human investigator and bodyguard hired to protect him.
Told in dual POV, the story is fast paced, suspenseful, and unexpectedly tender. I was hooked from start to finish, especially watching their relationship evolve as Ruyn slowly let down his guard. His initial resistance to having a bodyguard made their growing bond all the more satisfying.
The author excels at character development, contrasting Ruyn’s vulnerability beneath his warrior exterior with Michaela’s strength, intelligence, and resilience. The dynamic between them highlights the power of trust and the balance between perceived weakness and true courage.
This installment is a wonderful addition to the series. While the ending felt a bit rushed, the journey was compelling, with unexpected twists, and I’d recommend it to sci-fi romance lovers.
Told in dual POV, the story is fast paced, suspenseful, and unexpectedly tender. I was hooked from start to finish, especially watching their relationship evolve as Ruyn slowly let down his guard. His initial resistance to having a bodyguard made their growing bond all the more satisfying.
The author excels at character development, contrasting Ruyn’s vulnerability beneath his warrior exterior with Michaela’s strength, intelligence, and resilience. The dynamic between them highlights the power of trust and the balance between perceived weakness and true courage.
This installment is a wonderful addition to the series. While the ending felt a bit rushed, the journey was compelling, with unexpected twists, and I’d recommend it to sci-fi romance lovers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Michaela Perine was hired by GAL Friday to protect Ruyn. His brother Korsan hired her. Ruyn doesn’t need any help. He certainly doesn’t need a human to be his assistant. When he finds out that Korsan hired her to be his bodyguard, that really upsets him. She just needs to stay out of his way. When Michaela digs into his attack she learns it was no random event. These two start looking into every aspect of the attack. As they dig deeper, there is more going on then they thought.
I honestly didn’t expect that Korsan would be an issue. I liked Mama Murta. She was fun but then we received that twist in the story. I was not expecting that part. I did guess about why Michaela kept getting sick. I was almost in tears. Thank goodness for Dr. Stratos. If you read the first book in the series, Grumpy Alien Boss, you know about him. These two do get their happy ending, which they both deserve.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I honestly didn’t expect that Korsan would be an issue. I liked Mama Murta. She was fun but then we received that twist in the story. I was not expecting that part. I did guess about why Michaela kept getting sick. I was almost in tears. Thank goodness for Dr. Stratos. If you read the first book in the series, Grumpy Alien Boss, you know about him. These two do get their happy ending, which they both deserve.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2026
Badass Alien Boss is the second book of the author’s Gal Friday series.
This one follows FMC Michaela Perine, elite bodyguard who has been hired as protection for military hero Ruyn who is recovering from a recent unprovoked attack. His family feels someone wants him unlived!
No one told Ruyn though and he thinks she is just the new assistant hired for him once he joined his brothers company.
This was an enjoyable Sci-Fi romance that heats up when the alien MMC Ruyn discovers the truth about Michaela and proceeds to have a conniption fit!
With nice writing, some drama, humor, intrigue, mystery, and enemies slowly becoming lovers made this an entertaining, spicy read and I enjoyed it and the well crafted characters who kept the pace easing into surprises, steamy encounters, action, and humor as the HEA was reached.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This one follows FMC Michaela Perine, elite bodyguard who has been hired as protection for military hero Ruyn who is recovering from a recent unprovoked attack. His family feels someone wants him unlived!
No one told Ruyn though and he thinks she is just the new assistant hired for him once he joined his brothers company.
This was an enjoyable Sci-Fi romance that heats up when the alien MMC Ruyn discovers the truth about Michaela and proceeds to have a conniption fit!
With nice writing, some drama, humor, intrigue, mystery, and enemies slowly becoming lovers made this an entertaining, spicy read and I enjoyed it and the well crafted characters who kept the pace easing into surprises, steamy encounters, action, and humor as the HEA was reached.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 22, 2026
GAL series is back - enemies to lovers edition! 🥳
The plot - unbeatable, the banter, brilliant. The characters - well layered and real. The surprises, action, suspense - Cara Bristol has written a fantastic second book to the series!
Michaela is a GAL Friday not so secret bodyguard masquerading as assistant hired by Ruyn’s brother to protect Ruyn.
Too bad Ruyn cannot fire her. He tries to do so during the first 3 minutes he sees her.
He is grieving his former self - skills + physical appearance.
Also, he has no idea how a 5 ft human woman can protect him.
Soon, he realizes what she brings to the table - support without judgement, companionship, friendship.
She uncovers more details of his attack in a week than the police in months - opening pandoras box.
The attack was not random as initially believed.
The twists and turns puts their lives in danger.
The reference to Star Trek made me chuckle
Must read, of course.
The plot - unbeatable, the banter, brilliant. The characters - well layered and real. The surprises, action, suspense - Cara Bristol has written a fantastic second book to the series!
Michaela is a GAL Friday not so secret bodyguard masquerading as assistant hired by Ruyn’s brother to protect Ruyn.
Too bad Ruyn cannot fire her. He tries to do so during the first 3 minutes he sees her.
He is grieving his former self - skills + physical appearance.
Also, he has no idea how a 5 ft human woman can protect him.
Soon, he realizes what she brings to the table - support without judgement, companionship, friendship.
She uncovers more details of his attack in a week than the police in months - opening pandoras box.
The attack was not random as initially believed.
The twists and turns puts their lives in danger.
The reference to Star Trek made me chuckle
Must read, of course.
August 31, 2026
Girl Friday has struck again. They delivered a female who is a bodyguard and is able to handle the bad guys. After Ryan is injured during his military career he comes home to recuperate near his brother. He needs to build up his strength but with investigation going on about the last mission it seems like circumstances might have been intentional. This is where are female main character Michaela shows up. The bantering. The resistance of having her as his bodyguard is intriguing. But there seems to be twists and turns and unexpected passages that you read that seems to be connected to parts and known. The relationship that the two main characters are developing seems to be monitored by the villains! Something's got to give and hopefully are gal Friday will be able to crack the case. Love the interaction between the main characters. It is a very very good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2026
The h in this was always pretty levelheaded or sympathetic about everything. H was really rude, even physical at first and she instantly forgave. made sure a worker didn't get in trouble when they got frustrated with her. Then when H lost his cool and yelled at her for something she was actually right about she didn't get mad at his yelling but apologized a few times immediately. So, it was really unnecessary and odd to have this at the end.
“I certainly will,” sniffed the unidentified alien nurse-tech of unknown gender who obviously disliked the challenge to his or her authority. “Wait here.” He, she, it disappeared, returning ten minutes later with a scowl. “Follow me.”
h then went on calling them that in her head 2-3 more times
This was a pretty quick read, not too much emotion, and a little action surrounding some mysteries. But I thought the epilogue was strange when that wasn't her plan the entire book.
“I certainly will,” sniffed the unidentified alien nurse-tech of unknown gender who obviously disliked the challenge to his or her authority. “Wait here.” He, she, it disappeared, returning ten minutes later with a scowl. “Follow me.”
h then went on calling them that in her head 2-3 more times
This was a pretty quick read, not too much emotion, and a little action surrounding some mysteries. But I thought the epilogue was strange when that wasn't her plan the entire book.
Review of advance copy received from Storygraph
4.25 stars. This story is dual POV, well written and edited, and a sweet and steamy, bodyguard acting as assistant/injured ex-soldier, sci fi romantic suspense between Michaela, the female human bodyguard lead, and Ruyn, the male alien recovering ex-soldier lead. I enjoyed Michaela’s determination, confidence, and capability. I empathised with Ruyn’s unstable mental health, and enjoyed seeing him become more proactive and engaged with his world. I enjoyed the developing relationship as they pursued the mysteries surrounding Ruyn’s injuries, and the issues Michaela began to experience. I enjoyed the intimate moments. I enjoyed the resolution of the mysteries and the happy ending pursuing joint employment goals.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When Ruyn is attacked when he is home on leave, his brother, Korsan, hires a bodyguard through GAL Friday for him. Michaela is smitten with her new client and as they get closer a d start talking, Ruyn discovers some accounting errors. They take a trip to investigate undercover one of the resort owner by Korsan. Michaela has a severe allergic reaction to something at the resort. They come back home and she has a second reaction. In all she has 3 episodes and it is determined that Ruyn is infected with a robotic virus that is infecting Michaela. The doctor sends blood samples to a colleague who they hope will find a cure.
It's a bit of a nail biter waiting to find out if the researcher can come up with a cure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It's a bit of a nail biter waiting to find out if the researcher can come up with a cure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 14, 2026
I really enjoyed this intriguing mystery, along with the spice and action in the story. Ruyn is a Luturnan who has been brutally attacked, ending his military career. His brother Korsan has hired a bodyguard to protect him in case he is attacked again. Michaela is sent from GAL Friday to guard Ruyn. Both MCs are former military, and both of them are strong and independent. She is not really needed to protect him, but she can help to find out who attacked him and why. Ruyn finally accepts her help, but now they have another problem - Michaela has gone into anaphylaxis a few times and they don't know why. And so the mystery deepens. The writing is great and the plot is gripping. If you enjoy sci-fi romance with danger and suspense, I highly recommend this book.
I read an advanced copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I read an advanced copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 21, 2026
Ruyn is a military hero. That career was ripped away by an ambush in a dark alley. His brother has hired Michaela Perine through GAL Friday to be Ruyn’s assistant (bodyguard on the sly). Michaela is also former military, but is working toward a career in investigations. Things do not start off well. Soon, though, they discover they work well together and are very much attracted to each other. I really enjoyed the romance and adventure between Ruyn and Michaela. Their story has lots of plot twists, mystery, corporate espionage, dealings with the cartel (bad news), a good bit of fun, and a steamy romance. Will they be able to discover who is responsible for the ambush on Ruyn? Can they solve the financial quirk with the company? An exciting story with a fitting and fantastic ending.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
Review of advance copy
I received an ARC from BookSprout and I'm willingly leaving a review. Worth 4.5 stars, rounded up.
Medical emergencies, mystery, suspense, bad business decisions, physical attacks, and romance. All tucked in this one story. The pace is mostly fast, but no dull moments. I really liked the moments when we hear what's happening in their head; some are sad, some are funny, but some are hot too. I loved the character development, and how they discussed either what was happening, or the projects they were researching. Great twists at the end; I called out 2/3 but the getting there - and if I was right or not - was fun! Open door bedroom scenes (if you need to know that). Loved the cameo from the previous book!
Medical emergencies, mystery, suspense, bad business decisions, physical attacks, and romance. All tucked in this one story. The pace is mostly fast, but no dull moments. I really liked the moments when we hear what's happening in their head; some are sad, some are funny, but some are hot too. I loved the character development, and how they discussed either what was happening, or the projects they were researching. Great twists at the end; I called out 2/3 but the getting there - and if I was right or not - was fun! Open door bedroom scenes (if you need to know that). Loved the cameo from the previous book!
Review of advance copy
Honestly was hesitant at first. After the underwhelming experience of the first book. I however wanted to give it a chance for redemption. Everything about the book was well written. It had a balance of plot and spice with out overwhelming. It lacked core elements that I seek out in any sort of alien and or sci-fi romance. I'm still giving her 5 stars. There was nothing inherently wrong just a personal preference. This is great way to ease some into this genre in an engaging way. The spice is prob 3.5 ish so I'd say maybe 16 and up. However once again personal preference in the age range.
Lastly I did receive this as an arc and am under no obligation to leave this review.
Lastly I did receive this as an arc and am under no obligation to leave this review.
August 11, 2026
This was another enjoyable read in this series. This story is about Ruyn a scarred warrior who's reconstructing his life by working in his brother's Korsan company and Michaela Perine who's hired by his brother to protect and investigate into the attack that wounded him by posing as his administrative assistant. There are non-stop action and drama in the twisty plot as someone keeps trying to kill Ruyn, engaging interactions between our likable couple, and steamy romance in this engaging story that kept me invested. I've received a copy and volunteer to read and review this enjoyable Gal Friday book.
August 13, 2026
Guarding His Body
Ooh! I loved this new GAL Friday book. Michaela is hired to guard the younger brother of a successful alien business head after he is attacked by unknown assailants. Unfortunately for her, the younger brother was a soldier, forced to retire after the attack. And he does not want a bodyguard at all! As the two work together love starts to grow but there are unknown enemies they have no idea are watching them closely. The story was great and the sexy times were heated but not over the top. Cara is sneaky though, there were some plot twists that really shocked me. Great book.
Ooh! I loved this new GAL Friday book. Michaela is hired to guard the younger brother of a successful alien business head after he is attacked by unknown assailants. Unfortunately for her, the younger brother was a soldier, forced to retire after the attack. And he does not want a bodyguard at all! As the two work together love starts to grow but there are unknown enemies they have no idea are watching them closely. The story was great and the sexy times were heated but not over the top. Cara is sneaky though, there were some plot twists that really shocked me. Great book.
September 5, 2026
This was a fun read. They story jumps in page 1. His attitude is right there as well. I liked how the female stood her ground. The way she describes being sandwiched between 4 brothers is mostly the reason she is the way she is. This was definitely not love at first sight. Lust ? Oh yeah. It took time for him to come to terms that he needed her - in more ways than one. And his new limitations. There is some drama and some plot twist along the way. You are given little hints that give you an idea of what's coming. I enjoyed this read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 10, 2026
What started out as enemies quickly turned into lovers in this passionate, sci-fi romance. Ruhn had more than enough trying to work through his recovery, his pain, and his irritation with the woman hired to be his new assistant, AKA "protect" him from what couldn't possibly be an accident. But as he comes to know her, he discovers she is more than just a bodyguard. His respect for her commitment and her skills quickly morphs into an emotional attachment that becomes so much more when danger presents itself.
August 11, 2026
“Badass Alien Boss” by Cara Bristol
- This is a fun, steamy sci-fi romance packed with action, suspense, humor, and unexpected twists. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Michaela and Ruyn make a great pair, going from constant arguments to trust, respect, and undeniable attraction. The mystery surrounding Ruyn’s attack and each new clue reveals another surprise while keeping the story moving.
The strong grumpy-sunshine dynamic and satisfying romance make this an enjoyable and entertaining page-turner.
- This is a fun, steamy sci-fi romance packed with action, suspense, humor, and unexpected twists. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Michaela and Ruyn make a great pair, going from constant arguments to trust, respect, and undeniable attraction. The mystery surrounding Ruyn’s attack and each new clue reveals another surprise while keeping the story moving.
The strong grumpy-sunshine dynamic and satisfying romance make this an enjoyable and entertaining page-turner.
August 12, 2026
Ruyn and Michaela:
Lots of action and adventure, danger, intrigue, mystery, alien cartel, forced proximity, heat and HEA.
After Ruyan was attacked, his brother hires an agent from Gal Friday agency. As an agent of Gal Friday, Michaela shows up to her assignment not expecting to find a reluctant yet capable alien man. But she's trained in combat and can take car of herself. Michaela and Ruyn works together investigating Ruyn's attack, but they also uncover more than tthey bargin for.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lots of action and adventure, danger, intrigue, mystery, alien cartel, forced proximity, heat and HEA.
After Ruyan was attacked, his brother hires an agent from Gal Friday agency. As an agent of Gal Friday, Michaela shows up to her assignment not expecting to find a reluctant yet capable alien man. But she's trained in combat and can take car of herself. Michaela and Ruyn works together investigating Ruyn's attack, but they also uncover more than tthey bargin for.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
August 18, 2026I love Cara Bristol's alien series and the Gal Friday series; her characters are always charismatic and interesting. Ruyn and Michaela are exceptional.
Ruyn feels as if he's damaged; Michaela's determined to help him stop measuring himself against the man he used to be. Ruyn sees the woman who's taking care of everyone else’s safety but her own. When danger comes for them, Ruyn tries to sacrifice himself to protect her, but Michaela refuses to let anything else decide their fate but themselves.
Ruyn feels as if he's damaged; Michaela's determined to help him stop measuring himself against the man he used to be. Ruyn sees the woman who's taking care of everyone else’s safety but her own. When danger comes for them, Ruyn tries to sacrifice himself to protect her, but Michaela refuses to let anything else decide their fate but themselves.
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