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Alien Warrior #1
Aedian
A Steamy Sci-Fi Alien Invasion Paranormal Romance
This is a full-length novel with no cliffhangers
Ten years ago, the Calphesians, a warrior race from far beyond our stars, invaded Earth with the intention to kill everyone they found and take the planet’s resources for themselves. In order to prevent the destruction of the human race, a treaty was set, allowing the Calphesians to remain on Earth and use its resources as long as they didn't kill anyone or hurt the people. In addition, they would be able to pick and choose from a selection of human women to marry and have children with, in order to keep their kind from dying out.
Every five years, three women are randomly selected and married off to the strongest warriors of the Calphesians, and this year Roxanne has been chosen. She's angry and bitter about having her life decided for her, and nothing changes when she meets Aedian, her husband to be. He's boorish and crude, and treats her like she's insignificant most of the time, and all they do is fight.
But when another race of aliens seeks to destroy the Earth and everyone on it, everyone will have to band together to fight them off, and both Aedian and Roxanne will realize there's more to each other than they'd thought.
This Sci-Fi Alien Invasion Paranormal Romance has action, adventure and romance around every turn. Get your copy today by clicking “Buy Now!”...
CAUTION: Includes hot sex scenes and intense action! 18 or older.
This is a full-length novel with no cliffhangers
Ten years ago, the Calphesians, a warrior race from far beyond our stars, invaded Earth with the intention to kill everyone they found and take the planet’s resources for themselves. In order to prevent the destruction of the human race, a treaty was set, allowing the Calphesians to remain on Earth and use its resources as long as they didn't kill anyone or hurt the people. In addition, they would be able to pick and choose from a selection of human women to marry and have children with, in order to keep their kind from dying out.
Every five years, three women are randomly selected and married off to the strongest warriors of the Calphesians, and this year Roxanne has been chosen. She's angry and bitter about having her life decided for her, and nothing changes when she meets Aedian, her husband to be. He's boorish and crude, and treats her like she's insignificant most of the time, and all they do is fight.
But when another race of aliens seeks to destroy the Earth and everyone on it, everyone will have to band together to fight them off, and both Aedian and Roxanne will realize there's more to each other than they'd thought.
This Sci-Fi Alien Invasion Paranormal Romance has action, adventure and romance around every turn. Get your copy today by clicking “Buy Now!”...
CAUTION: Includes hot sex scenes and intense action! 18 or older.
169 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2015
16 people are currently reading
373 people want to read
About the author
Ashley West
26 books60 followersAshley West was raised in a small Midwest town. She has always been a big fan of all thing science fiction and paranormal. Her all-time favorite movie is the original Star Wars.
She started writing at a young age and has not looked back since. Ashley brings her worlds to life with vivid details and strong character development. On her spare time she enjoys painting , cooking, and curling up to her favorite books.
She started writing at a young age and has not looked back since. Ashley brings her worlds to life with vivid details and strong character development. On her spare time she enjoys painting , cooking, and curling up to her favorite books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 13, 2015
Surprisingly good
I wasn't expecting much from this book but I was pleasantly surprised and delighted with it. The story is more character driven with very little world building and I appreciate that since this is erotic romance with two stubborn MC.
'For decades, humans have looked up at the stars and wondered what's beyond their atmosphere...And while human beings tried to make contact with the furthest reaches we could, it caught everyone by surprise when something made contact with us instead.'
The Calphesians, a warrior race (with horns) that prizes strength and survival above all things, invade earth from beyond our solar system but instead of killing and plundering the earth's resources, earth makes a peace treaty with them which allows the aliens to take the resources they need without bloodshed. Additionally, Every five years, three women are randomly selected from different countries and married off to the best Calphesian warriors, in order to have children and save their race from dying out.
'Ten years after the Calphesians has made their way to earth, and having them around was the new normal. It was common place to be at the mall or the grocery store and see he tall, horned creatures going about their business as well.'
The story begins when Roxanne, a dark skin beauty, is given to Aedian, a huge muscled warrior with horns and rude, condescending, boorish attitude to match. She didn't understand the fascination with these aliens but since her right to choose her husband was taken from her, she won't put up with any attitude or disrespect from her alien partner. From the beginning, Aedian and Roxanne argue and fight about almost everything.
Aedian and Roxanne's first proper encounter was pretty antagonistic, immature and funny...
"If we're stating facts, you smell like you haven't showered in days"
"I smell like a champion", he retorted, "you smell like a concubine."
Aedian didn't want a life mate and he hadn't even considered children but he is a good warrior and would fallow orders, however reluctantly. He expected an inferior creature but he got a female who challenges him on every level and forces him to change his attitude and views at an alarming rate. Aedian found Roxanne fascinating, sexy, infuriating, confusing and over-time, he found her to be a warrior in her own right and his match in every way.
In the end, Roxanne also learned to trust and respect Aedian. Her attitude and assumptions slowly changed into grudging admiration which gave way to deeper feelings.
Usually, heroines in these genre turn into wet noodle with brain cells and backbone to match as soon as alien hero gets them into bed. Roxanne stayed strong, determined and yet reasonable. She gave as much as she got and still maintained her self-respect, dignity and common sense and I like that in my heroines and so does Aedian, eventually.
'Aedian accepted that she was headstrong and wanted to do things her way, and he didn't ttry to fight her on it anymore. In fact, every time she stood up to him, it seemed like his respect for her only grew.'
I also loved the dual POV as we get to see the story from their prospective and by extension how each race sees this fragile peace treaty/relationship.
Although this book had very little world building or development of side characters, relationship of the MC and romance was realistic, fun and sometimes even adorable. The hero and heroine were strong, balanced and relatable. The trust and respect developed in stages and the erotic/passionate moments (which were plenty) was hot. Overall, this was a fun enjoyable read. I can't wait to read more of this author's work.
I wasn't expecting much from this book but I was pleasantly surprised and delighted with it. The story is more character driven with very little world building and I appreciate that since this is erotic romance with two stubborn MC.
'For decades, humans have looked up at the stars and wondered what's beyond their atmosphere...And while human beings tried to make contact with the furthest reaches we could, it caught everyone by surprise when something made contact with us instead.'
The Calphesians, a warrior race (with horns) that prizes strength and survival above all things, invade earth from beyond our solar system but instead of killing and plundering the earth's resources, earth makes a peace treaty with them which allows the aliens to take the resources they need without bloodshed. Additionally, Every five years, three women are randomly selected from different countries and married off to the best Calphesian warriors, in order to have children and save their race from dying out.
'Ten years after the Calphesians has made their way to earth, and having them around was the new normal. It was common place to be at the mall or the grocery store and see he tall, horned creatures going about their business as well.'
The story begins when Roxanne, a dark skin beauty, is given to Aedian, a huge muscled warrior with horns and rude, condescending, boorish attitude to match. She didn't understand the fascination with these aliens but since her right to choose her husband was taken from her, she won't put up with any attitude or disrespect from her alien partner. From the beginning, Aedian and Roxanne argue and fight about almost everything.
Aedian and Roxanne's first proper encounter was pretty antagonistic, immature and funny...
"If we're stating facts, you smell like you haven't showered in days"
"I smell like a champion", he retorted, "you smell like a concubine."
Aedian didn't want a life mate and he hadn't even considered children but he is a good warrior and would fallow orders, however reluctantly. He expected an inferior creature but he got a female who challenges him on every level and forces him to change his attitude and views at an alarming rate. Aedian found Roxanne fascinating, sexy, infuriating, confusing and over-time, he found her to be a warrior in her own right and his match in every way.
In the end, Roxanne also learned to trust and respect Aedian. Her attitude and assumptions slowly changed into grudging admiration which gave way to deeper feelings.
Usually, heroines in these genre turn into wet noodle with brain cells and backbone to match as soon as alien hero gets them into bed. Roxanne stayed strong, determined and yet reasonable. She gave as much as she got and still maintained her self-respect, dignity and common sense and I like that in my heroines and so does Aedian, eventually.
'Aedian accepted that she was headstrong and wanted to do things her way, and he didn't ttry to fight her on it anymore. In fact, every time she stood up to him, it seemed like his respect for her only grew.'
I also loved the dual POV as we get to see the story from their prospective and by extension how each race sees this fragile peace treaty/relationship.
Although this book had very little world building or development of side characters, relationship of the MC and romance was realistic, fun and sometimes even adorable. The hero and heroine were strong, balanced and relatable. The trust and respect developed in stages and the erotic/passionate moments (which were plenty) was hot. Overall, this was a fun enjoyable read. I can't wait to read more of this author's work.
October 17, 2015
Nice story about an alien warrior who must marry a human woman for "peace"
February 29, 2016
3.0 STARS
Scifi erotica/futuristic/ Mars needs women
10 years ago aliens arrived on Earth...
Calphesians...
Before they could invade or cause destruction, the goverment made a treaty to guarrantee peace between our two species. Calphesians are running out of women and need a compatible breeding specie to regain their numbers. Every five years, 3 women are selected randomly, to marry three of their warriors.
A tournament is held, to see who are the worthy ones for these women...And that's how our protagonists meet.
Aedian's isn't too interested, although he knows it's a great honor to be chosen.
On the other side, Roxanne's is appalled and angry.
An interesting premise of course. The couple fights a lot and don't really like each other. Except during sex. In my opinion, altough the sex was hot, the relationship was cold and void till the end. Their is no real romance here, if you ask me. So don't expect meaningful romance build up. This is truly plain erotica with a tinge of attraction and little feelings involved. The hero isn't a possessive Alpha. There is no insta love and no weird connection. Just FYI, in case your looking for something around those lines. It's just about two people who are forced to live with each other and sort of get along, especially in sexual terms. To have babies of course... and maintain peace.
It was sort of satisfying... I enjoyed it. The writing was ok and the plot was interesting. It didn't go too deep but there was good built up till the war breaks.
Other aliens come to invade, and Calphesians choose to defend Earth from their old enemies.
We don't get action, till the very end. And it's not very clear or relevant because Calphesians win in the end. It was poorly described and was just splashed momentarily to sort of force some angst and make the h/h finally admit their feelings.
I didn't really buy the whole ending and feelings... I couldn't relate or like the main heroine. And I wished Aedian would've gotten a better match. And in the end I was happy the book finished quickly... It wasn't bad. But it wasn't great either. It just fell into the 'meh... book zone'.
I resolved three stars for entertainment and the alien race. I don't recommend this book to romance readers or Scifi romance fans. I do recommend it to Mars needs women fans and some people who might be looking for something different in the genre. I bid you farewell and my your next reads be fab!
Scifi erotica/futuristic/ Mars needs women
10 years ago aliens arrived on Earth...
Calphesians...
Before they could invade or cause destruction, the goverment made a treaty to guarrantee peace between our two species. Calphesians are running out of women and need a compatible breeding specie to regain their numbers. Every five years, 3 women are selected randomly, to marry three of their warriors.
A tournament is held, to see who are the worthy ones for these women...And that's how our protagonists meet.
Aedian's isn't too interested, although he knows it's a great honor to be chosen.
On the other side, Roxanne's is appalled and angry.
An interesting premise of course. The couple fights a lot and don't really like each other. Except during sex. In my opinion, altough the sex was hot, the relationship was cold and void till the end. Their is no real romance here, if you ask me. So don't expect meaningful romance build up. This is truly plain erotica with a tinge of attraction and little feelings involved. The hero isn't a possessive Alpha. There is no insta love and no weird connection. Just FYI, in case your looking for something around those lines. It's just about two people who are forced to live with each other and sort of get along, especially in sexual terms. To have babies of course... and maintain peace.
It was sort of satisfying... I enjoyed it. The writing was ok and the plot was interesting. It didn't go too deep but there was good built up till the war breaks.
Other aliens come to invade, and Calphesians choose to defend Earth from their old enemies.
We don't get action, till the very end. And it's not very clear or relevant because Calphesians win in the end. It was poorly described and was just splashed momentarily to sort of force some angst and make the h/h finally admit their feelings.
I didn't really buy the whole ending and feelings... I couldn't relate or like the main heroine. And I wished Aedian would've gotten a better match. And in the end I was happy the book finished quickly... It wasn't bad. But it wasn't great either. It just fell into the 'meh... book zone'.
I resolved three stars for entertainment and the alien race. I don't recommend this book to romance readers or Scifi romance fans. I do recommend it to Mars needs women fans and some people who might be looking for something different in the genre. I bid you farewell and my your next reads be fab!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2015
Stars: 3
Overall: 10 years ago aliens landed on Earth and we as a people decided to attack them. They disseminated are troops and after that one brave man made a treaty with the aliens. They could stay on Earth and live peacefully with the humans and the aliens asked that every 5 years 3 women to be chosen to become brides and help keep the alien race alive. Fast Forward 10 years and Roxy is in the arena waiting for the tournament to end and when it does, the champion that chooses he is a surly man that doesn't seem to like her. At first things are strained between them, but after a round of good sex, they start to get on talking terms, but it takes a slap to the face for Aedian to really see Roxy for who she is. After that their relationship gets better and before they can get a HEA a war breaks out between the aliens and their foes. In the end the foe is defeated and Roxy and Aedian drive off into a happily ever after sunset or should i say sexist.
Pros: I did like the relationship between Roxy and Aedian because it felt some what real given the situation. I also liked the idea of the tournament and that's was the way the men were chosen to get their brides. At first I wasn't sure I was going to like the book because all Roxy and Aedian did was argue, but I really liked that sex brought them together and that Aedian started to take the time to see what humans were about because Roxy fought so hard to show that she was just as equal as he was.
Cons: I personally can't pinpoint what I didn't like about this story because overall it was a good book. What I didn't care for was the length of the story because I didn't feel a real connection between the characters or the plot. I felt like that there was a lot of good details but they were rushed and I just wanted more of the story. Other than that I really enjoyed the story
Characters: Roxy & Aedian
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont: I'm not sure
Recommend: Yes
Overall: 10 years ago aliens landed on Earth and we as a people decided to attack them. They disseminated are troops and after that one brave man made a treaty with the aliens. They could stay on Earth and live peacefully with the humans and the aliens asked that every 5 years 3 women to be chosen to become brides and help keep the alien race alive. Fast Forward 10 years and Roxy is in the arena waiting for the tournament to end and when it does, the champion that chooses he is a surly man that doesn't seem to like her. At first things are strained between them, but after a round of good sex, they start to get on talking terms, but it takes a slap to the face for Aedian to really see Roxy for who she is. After that their relationship gets better and before they can get a HEA a war breaks out between the aliens and their foes. In the end the foe is defeated and Roxy and Aedian drive off into a happily ever after sunset or should i say sexist.
Pros: I did like the relationship between Roxy and Aedian because it felt some what real given the situation. I also liked the idea of the tournament and that's was the way the men were chosen to get their brides. At first I wasn't sure I was going to like the book because all Roxy and Aedian did was argue, but I really liked that sex brought them together and that Aedian started to take the time to see what humans were about because Roxy fought so hard to show that she was just as equal as he was.
Cons: I personally can't pinpoint what I didn't like about this story because overall it was a good book. What I didn't care for was the length of the story because I didn't feel a real connection between the characters or the plot. I felt like that there was a lot of good details but they were rushed and I just wanted more of the story. Other than that I really enjoyed the story
Characters: Roxy & Aedian
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont: I'm not sure
Recommend: Yes
October 18, 2015
I actually liked this. It was different and I enjoyed the story as a whole. Every 5 years 3 random women are chosen to be "prizes" for like tournament games and whoever the 3 warrior winners gets a choice of the 3 women. Aedian chose last and it wasn't a choice really because Roxanne was the only one left. Roxanne wasn't at all thrilled be a PRIZE. Hated it actually. Had a bad attitude going into it. What made it worse is Aedian has a negative attitude as well. Detested humans and thought they were weak which they are kinda compared to them. He did have a misconception in thinking they were worthless until he met her. What surprised me is that they consummated so fast. Like the same day as the tournament after dinner. They weren't even supposed to be married for awhile. They have sexual chemistry big time. However, they hated their situation and disliked each other that they both refused to actually get to know the other. Stubborn. That was my issue with this. They didn't know each other and didnt want to, it was hard to root for them. No emotional connection. Very little even at the end. Still they didn't love each other. Its like a marriage of convenience type of thing but never loving that person EVER. That was disappointing to me and really sad. I guess that the way Ms. West wanted it written.
October 23, 2015
Ashley West did it again! I received this book for an honest review, I am not a native English writer, sorry in advance for some mistakes. Aedian is a great alien-invasion romance, mixing some of my fav romance themes, from reluctant "marriage", to Beauty and the Beast, Rape of Sabine Women... and The Taming of the Shrew. The result is a very original story, well written, as usuall, with vivid, credible, characters.
Roxy and Aedian reluctant encounter starts from very understandable instant dislike at first sight, they have to face some cultural clashes, and... no spoiling in this review, read the story. The story is really good, and convincing. I did not understood the ending the same way some readers did it because I saw it as an open ending, matching perfectly with the characters, and the time we leave them. They are no cliffhanger, but my imagination started to think about a sequel to this story, with Aedian and Roxy, and more, they are other characters who could deserve their own stories.
I had a great time with a story very different from others Ashlew West books, and appreciate both her original and personnal touch, and the way she tries something new.
Roxy and Aedian reluctant encounter starts from very understandable instant dislike at first sight, they have to face some cultural clashes, and... no spoiling in this review, read the story. The story is really good, and convincing. I did not understood the ending the same way some readers did it because I saw it as an open ending, matching perfectly with the characters, and the time we leave them. They are no cliffhanger, but my imagination started to think about a sequel to this story, with Aedian and Roxy, and more, they are other characters who could deserve their own stories.
I had a great time with a story very different from others Ashlew West books, and appreciate both her original and personnal touch, and the way she tries something new.
November 13, 2015
This genre is a little different than what I normally read, so please understand that my review is through eyes of one who is not a regular reader of sci-fi contemporary.
Although this was described as a full length novel, I would have to beg to differ. It is 168 pages, which in my opinion is more of a short story or novella. I tend to shy from short stories because it seems to me that it doesn't lend the author enough time to delve into the complexities of the characters or plot.
That said, I must admit I enjoyed the story and liked the characters. The sexual heat level is SCORCHING but I still felt like I wanted more.
I was getting a little annoyed with the h from time to time, but not enough to hate her.
I don't like retelling the premise of a book since it only makes the review long and repettitve to the summary already given on GR. SO I will close with that I gave 4 stars because there is nothing specific that liked or disliked. It was unique and entertaining.
Although this was described as a full length novel, I would have to beg to differ. It is 168 pages, which in my opinion is more of a short story or novella. I tend to shy from short stories because it seems to me that it doesn't lend the author enough time to delve into the complexities of the characters or plot.
That said, I must admit I enjoyed the story and liked the characters. The sexual heat level is SCORCHING but I still felt like I wanted more.
I was getting a little annoyed with the h from time to time, but not enough to hate her.
I don't like retelling the premise of a book since it only makes the review long and repettitve to the summary already given on GR. SO I will close with that I gave 4 stars because there is nothing specific that liked or disliked. It was unique and entertaining.
March 5, 2017
I enjoyed this and would read it again.
The h and H learn to compromise for each other. They fight a lot and make up with sex. It ends hopeful, with a happy for now.
The cover isn't an accurate picture of the hero. The comment about the Earth not having conflicts was far-fetched. I really liked that the heroine wasn't Caucasian.
mature content
The h and H learn to compromise for each other. They fight a lot and make up with sex. It ends hopeful, with a happy for now.
The cover isn't an accurate picture of the hero. The comment about the Earth not having conflicts was far-fetched. I really liked that the heroine wasn't Caucasian.
mature content
November 28, 2015
a treaty bride awarded as a prize in a tournament of alien conquerors, makes peace and a life with her alien mate. they grow to respect and care for each other. then another alien race invades and the fight is on.
October 10, 2015
Too short to be fully believable (and world building wasn't up to par with the futuristic theme), but overall pretty nice to read.
September 29, 2020
Yet another DNF.
I just didn't connect with the characters, at all. 🤷🏼♀️
I just didn't connect with the characters, at all. 🤷🏼♀️
Read
December 9, 2015DNF at 25%
November 27, 2017
Likable enough
The only reason I’m not raving about this is because of the presentation of a really good story. Two hotheads falling in Love was a fun idea and the tension of the subplot was good. The problem was presentation. There was a lot of summarizing events rather than going through them. It would have been better to show the characters doing their thing rather than telling us how that it happened. Roxanne wasn’t especially likable because she was such a hothead and instead of talking to her champion, she made herself a donkey by assuming she knew what’s what. It was a very telling story that would have been made awesome with a lot more in-depth scenes rather than summarization of events.
The only reason I’m not raving about this is because of the presentation of a really good story. Two hotheads falling in Love was a fun idea and the tension of the subplot was good. The problem was presentation. There was a lot of summarizing events rather than going through them. It would have been better to show the characters doing their thing rather than telling us how that it happened. Roxanne wasn’t especially likable because she was such a hothead and instead of talking to her champion, she made herself a donkey by assuming she knew what’s what. It was a very telling story that would have been made awesome with a lot more in-depth scenes rather than summarization of events.
July 17, 2019
Ler em inglês para mim não é muito fácil, mas por causa da leitura vale o serviço dobrado de ler, mesmo que algumas palavras tenha que procurar no dicionario para saber o significado. Mas tirando essa parte e falando sobre o livro, devo dizer que amei, mas achei a personagem principal um pouco chata no começo, mas depois ela se mostrou muito mais interessante, então é um livro que recomendo e que adoraria ver traduzido para o português!!
July 20, 2021
hmmm... a fascinating and surprisingly gentle alien encounter. Warrior race that embraces peace as they come to occupy earth. Enter the battle of the wills and exit with a sweet coming together. Fast read.
January 16, 2018
2.5 stars
February 5, 2018
Hot sex... check.
Hunky alien... check.
Plucky earth girl... check.
Insta-love... not at all!
Hunky alien... check.
Plucky earth girl... check.
Insta-love... not at all!
Read
October 27, 2021enders game meets the selection
March 24, 2023
Audiobook
Good story but read better
Good story but read better
July 1, 2023
2.5 stars
October 26, 2015
“Earth Girls are EASY’, Aedian: Alien Warrior: A Sci-Fi Alien Invasion Paranormal Romance by Ashley West, is a sex-filled science fiction breeder book with two very opinionated main characters. What is a science fiction breeder book, you ask? Well, dear reader, it is where the male population has been decimated by some unknown force, and the sexy aliens can’t have babies with their females; or their population of females has been decimated by something (insert plague de jour here). I am not trying to be snarky because a lot of authors are able to pull this plot line off. Ms. West has a problem writing in the breeder genre, and it isn’t because Ms. West is a bad writer. It’s because she invented a very sassy young woman in her heroine, Roxanne Weaver, and what does defiant Ms. Weaver do right from the start? She has mind blowing, orgasm inducing sex with the sexy alien barbarian i.e. Aedian. ARRRRRRRGH …. insert scream of the reviewer. If you write a heroine who is pissed at being in a situation, don’t have that heroine fall into bed with the sexy alien if you expect me to respect the character. If Roxy is so up in arms about being bartered off to the aliens for the peace of the world, then Roxy should have kept her clothes on. That fiery character that can give lip to the alien should not be using those same lips to wrap around his huge alien penis. How is sex going to make you understand your new life mate when you hate him any other time? Geez, I think I am too old for alien sex as the story by Ms. West is pretty much a lot of alien sex.
The alien Calphesians are an insular society having not mingled with the human race in ten years, but they have sex with human women so some are mingling. I wish West had explored what was happening and not happening in the ten years since the introduction of the aliens to earth. The plot takes place ten years after the initial invasion, but the main female character, Roxy, never interacts with any of the other ‘bride/prizes’ that came before her? The author missed out on giving the reader secondary characters to grow the depth of the primary ones. Also, she completely skips over details of where the aliens live. How can I, the reader, interact with a foreign world if it isn’t described?
I believe authors have the entire story in their heads, but they forget we readers are not privy to the innermost working of their minds. So here is some free unwanted advice to Ms. West and all the other science fiction authors who want to publish a book. Get a good beta reader who is willing to play devil’s advocate with you! If someone just gushes about your book, move on to an honest reviewer as they don’t want to hurt your feelings. Truth! You do have talent, but your story needed fleshing out. Remember you can show and tell, but let me fall into your world.
Also, authors, pay someone to make your aliens on the covers of your books look like the alien in the book. The Conan the Barbarian on Aidean is fine, but the author’s alien has curved horns. Either omit the horns or put them on your cover.
I know Ms. West isn’t going to invite me to her next BBQ, but know she does have talent. She just needs to learn to flesh out her story, make her characters connect, and she can have a good science fiction writing career.
If you are looking for fiery hot sex scenes between a horny alien male and a feisty female human, then this book might be right up your alley.
The alien Calphesians are an insular society having not mingled with the human race in ten years, but they have sex with human women so some are mingling. I wish West had explored what was happening and not happening in the ten years since the introduction of the aliens to earth. The plot takes place ten years after the initial invasion, but the main female character, Roxy, never interacts with any of the other ‘bride/prizes’ that came before her? The author missed out on giving the reader secondary characters to grow the depth of the primary ones. Also, she completely skips over details of where the aliens live. How can I, the reader, interact with a foreign world if it isn’t described?
I believe authors have the entire story in their heads, but they forget we readers are not privy to the innermost working of their minds. So here is some free unwanted advice to Ms. West and all the other science fiction authors who want to publish a book. Get a good beta reader who is willing to play devil’s advocate with you! If someone just gushes about your book, move on to an honest reviewer as they don’t want to hurt your feelings. Truth! You do have talent, but your story needed fleshing out. Remember you can show and tell, but let me fall into your world.
Also, authors, pay someone to make your aliens on the covers of your books look like the alien in the book. The Conan the Barbarian on Aidean is fine, but the author’s alien has curved horns. Either omit the horns or put them on your cover.
I know Ms. West isn’t going to invite me to her next BBQ, but know she does have talent. She just needs to learn to flesh out her story, make her characters connect, and she can have a good science fiction writing career.
If you are looking for fiery hot sex scenes between a horny alien male and a feisty female human, then this book might be right up your alley.
August 1, 2016
This was kind of short and sweet - I read it in a couple of hours.
To be honest, I started it kind of reluctantly, expecting it to be a bit rubbish and it was a nice surprise to discover that I enjoyed it.
There's a bit of an info dump at the beginning, about how the Calphesians came to earth and the treaty but it doesn't go on and on and soon enough you're in the story proper.
Aedian is an alpha male without being a total prick. He recognises when he's wrong, he's not a total barbarian - dragging Roxy around by her hair or demanding things of her, he pretty much lets her get on with her life and when he steps over the line, he gives her time and then goes to find her to talk it over.
When he does step over the line , she doesn't just go along with it because he's oh-so-sexy and her hormones override her common sense or sense of self respect (this is one of the things that absolutely infuriates me in every sort of romance) - she gets pissed and reacts and storms off and I love that.
Roxy is annoyed at being dragged into this marriage, however - she's not a total shrew. She doesn't just bitch at him for the sake of it or try to make things difficult.
I would say I'd have liked a little more character development - what exactly is it she does? She's job hunting in the book but we don't find out much about her, what are her interests, hobbies, skills? All that we know is that she has a mother, father and a best friend - Sam. How does she spend her days? For that matter, what does Aedian do? It's kind of vague . . . he trains and attends meetings. That's really it. We don't really get to know him either.
I was interested in the society of the Calphesians - they have a medial bay and a government infrastructure but we don't learn much about them or their day-to-day lives.
There's also quite a bit of tell and not show in this book.
I did enjoy this quite a bit but I feel with a bit more padding out it could have been really, really great - rather than just good.
To be honest, I started it kind of reluctantly, expecting it to be a bit rubbish and it was a nice surprise to discover that I enjoyed it.
There's a bit of an info dump at the beginning, about how the Calphesians came to earth and the treaty but it doesn't go on and on and soon enough you're in the story proper.
Aedian is an alpha male without being a total prick. He recognises when he's wrong, he's not a total barbarian - dragging Roxy around by her hair or demanding things of her, he pretty much lets her get on with her life and when he steps over the line, he gives her time and then goes to find her to talk it over.
When he does step over the line , she doesn't just go along with it because he's oh-so-sexy and her hormones override her common sense or sense of self respect (this is one of the things that absolutely infuriates me in every sort of romance) - she gets pissed and reacts and storms off and I love that.
Roxy is annoyed at being dragged into this marriage, however - she's not a total shrew. She doesn't just bitch at him for the sake of it or try to make things difficult.
I would say I'd have liked a little more character development - what exactly is it she does? She's job hunting in the book but we don't find out much about her, what are her interests, hobbies, skills? All that we know is that she has a mother, father and a best friend - Sam. How does she spend her days? For that matter, what does Aedian do? It's kind of vague . . . he trains and attends meetings. That's really it. We don't really get to know him either.
I was interested in the society of the Calphesians - they have a medial bay and a government infrastructure but we don't learn much about them or their day-to-day lives.
There's also quite a bit of tell and not show in this book.
I did enjoy this quite a bit but I feel with a bit more padding out it could have been really, really great - rather than just good.
December 1, 2015
This was an exciting book, that started off rough with the Calphesians coming to Earth with the intent to take over and conquer because they had to flee their own planet b/c it was dying and they had few women left. There was a bloody battle, but then a treaty was drawn up where humans and Calphesians would share technology and the humans would trade three women to Calphesian warriors in a tournament every five years. Both groups were able to coexist alongside each other in an awkward manner, not getting to close but it worked. Roxanne is picked in this year's tournament and paired with Aedian. Both have their own biases against the others race and clash quite a bit, yet they are very compatible in between the sheets. The Platoks another alien race is headed to Earth and the Calphesian's aren't sure why, but its definitely not good news. The Calphesians will not back down from a fight and wil defend their new home. Even without the alien issue between Aedian and Roxanne this was a good story, they just needed to put the insults behind them and get to know each other and become stronger as a couple. Roxanne proved this when she went out into the middle of the battle to get Aedian to safety after he was injured.
April 26, 2016
Aedian was an easy and short read and surprisingly better than my first experience with Ashley West writing.
This was more of an erotic story than romance since I barely got the love between the characters.
Aedian is an alien warrior from a race that decided to make first contact. Their requests were simple: live with us on Earth and have some women to procreate with.
Roxanne was paired with Aedian and they both found themselves in a relationship that was sexual/physical. There were no feelings or Insta-love between the two of them. Roxy gave back as good as she got and I have appreciated the way she stood up to Aedian.
I'd say that the dual POV helped a lot to understand both characters since there was not much world or character build.
This was a very interesting take on the "Mars needs women" genre and even more interesting for the star gazers who are wondering what and who is out there.
I appreciate a lot the author's imagination in the way she put a twist on these themes. I just wished for a better build of the story and plot.
I can only recommend this book as an erotic story since sex was abundant but clearly not as a romance.
Might make for an easy read for someone who wants something new and fast to read.
This was more of an erotic story than romance since I barely got the love between the characters.
Aedian is an alien warrior from a race that decided to make first contact. Their requests were simple: live with us on Earth and have some women to procreate with.
Roxanne was paired with Aedian and they both found themselves in a relationship that was sexual/physical. There were no feelings or Insta-love between the two of them. Roxy gave back as good as she got and I have appreciated the way she stood up to Aedian.
I'd say that the dual POV helped a lot to understand both characters since there was not much world or character build.
This was a very interesting take on the "Mars needs women" genre and even more interesting for the star gazers who are wondering what and who is out there.
I appreciate a lot the author's imagination in the way she put a twist on these themes. I just wished for a better build of the story and plot.
I can only recommend this book as an erotic story since sex was abundant but clearly not as a romance.
Might make for an easy read for someone who wants something new and fast to read.
October 21, 2015
The aliens were called Calphesians, and they were from the planet Calphas, They had come with the intent of destroying the human race and taking over to live on the planet since their own was dying and there was nothing left there for them. To achieve peace a treaty was signed that - Every 5 years 3 random women are chosen to be "prizes" for tournament games and whoever the 3 warrior winners gets a choice of the 3 women. Since their society is mostly male.
Aedian was one of the three winners but didnt want to be there. Roxanne was one of the chosen three women and wasn’t very happy about it. So at first Aedian and Roxy don’t like each other but have great Chemistry and end up in bed together but gradually the relationships develops and they end up working together to help save earth from a enemy of the calphesians that want to enslave and take over earth.
Aedian was one of the three winners but didnt want to be there. Roxanne was one of the chosen three women and wasn’t very happy about it. So at first Aedian and Roxy don’t like each other but have great Chemistry and end up in bed together but gradually the relationships develops and they end up working together to help save earth from a enemy of the calphesians that want to enslave and take over earth.
October 21, 2015
I was pleasantly surprised with this story. Alot of times with these stories they are not realistic at all (I mean I know its about an alien invasion but it could happen). I really liked the dynamic between the two main I was pleasantly surprised with this story. Alot of times with these stories they are not realistic at all (I mean I know its about an alien invasion but it could happen). I really liked the dynamic between the two main characters as well. All an all i would read more books from this author and look forward to what else she has planned for us. as well. All an all i would read more books from this author and look forward to what else she has planned for us.
October 16, 2015
This book started like another series that I am following. Aliens invade Earth and the subsequent treaty involves them marrying Earth women-- since their society is predominately male. That is where the similarity ends. There is a tournament to decide which males can mate. It is held once every 5 years and 3 women are chosen for this event. Neither Aidean nor Roxy are thrilled that they have been chosen for this honor. But, as time passes, they decide that their union is not so bad. And, when another race of aliens invades, they discover that they may have something worth fighting for.
November 18, 2015
This invasion wasn't barbaric like I was expected. But what I quite enjoyed in this book was the dynamic or the solution of peace, not between two races but between a couple, which was kinda funny in a way and somehow led to more understanding but not clouded by that erotic relationship.
What more?
Somehow both race learnt from each other.
Stronger and softer or not narrow minded and understanding.
What more?
Somehow both race learnt from each other.
Stronger and softer or not narrow minded and understanding.
October 28, 2015
What an entertaining story about a couple of very stubborn, independent characters! I had to read it through in one sitting. While most of us don't fantasize about seven foot tall aliens with horns, Aedian was impossible not to love. He certainly meets his match with Roxy and life will never be dull between the two of them!
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