What do you think?
Rate this book
** Alternate Cover for ISBN 9781530208074 **
The Klints, a superior race in every way, long ago decided to abolish natural birthing; over the last millenniums, every child had been engineered, created, designed; but things went wrong, hence their need for human breeders.
Lena's life might have changed since their invasion, but she's not particularly affected by their presence on a daily basis, until the day they find out that she's a hundred percent compatible to the emperor of the entire galaxy.
Her job was simple. She was supposed to give birth to his heir and disappear.
But then, someone threatens that child.
******
Note that Rise is part One out of Three.
Schedule: Rage (April) Rule (May)
The Klints, a superior race in every way, long ago decided to abolish natural birthing; over the last millenniums, every child had been engineered, created, designed; but things went wrong, hence their need for human breeders.
Lena's life might have changed since their invasion, but she's not particularly affected by their presence on a daily basis, until the day they find out that she's a hundred percent compatible to the emperor of the entire galaxy.
Her job was simple. She was supposed to give birth to his heir and disappear.
But then, someone threatens that child.
******
Note that Rise is part One out of Three.
Schedule: Rage (April) Rule (May)
236 pages, Paperback
First published February 26, 2016
80 people are currently reading
484 people want to read
About the author
May Sage
143 books1,926 followersMay Sage is a USA Today Bestselling romance writer dabbling in different genres.
When she isn’t writing, she spends her time with her German Shepherd and her two Savannahs. She loves reading, ballet, running, and cake. Mostly, cake.
May Sage also writes longer fantasy romance novels as Alexi Blake.
When she isn’t writing, she spends her time with her German Shepherd and her two Savannahs. She loves reading, ballet, running, and cake. Mostly, cake.
May Sage also writes longer fantasy romance novels as Alexi Blake.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
March 2, 2016
I like reading the work of May Sage and Rise is another great read. I have to say I think this is her best work so far. It shows a maturity as a writer and I like the style of narrative in Rise...she may well have found her voice. Rise is tame compared to her other works but Blue Blood Book 1 doesn't suffer because of it.
There are elements of her style that are quite distinctive and evident, the humour, characterisation and the emotive writing shines through. This is the start of what will be a good series. Well done May Sage.
There are elements of her style that are quite distinctive and evident, the humour, characterisation and the emotive writing shines through. This is the start of what will be a good series. Well done May Sage.
July 19, 2017
This was a good story and I really liked the idea behind it but it lost something for me when it skipped ahead with little detail. It moved the story along, sure, but I missed the character build up that you usually get.
August 28, 2017
I would have liked this story a lot more if it were to stop with the Emperor and Lena.
the writing was very engaging' and there were no stone left unturned, but the story felt rushed, like we had to hear every one's tale' when i wasn't even ready to stop hearing about the first couple. should have been a lot longer book, for all the romance that got included.
the writing was very engaging' and there were no stone left unturned, but the story felt rushed, like we had to hear every one's tale' when i wasn't even ready to stop hearing about the first couple. should have been a lot longer book, for all the romance that got included.
August 16, 2017
First, it's not just one story....it's several!
Of course we have the leading couple, but also the cousins, the son...and so on! You finish one chapter and jump to a new couple.
I really enjoyed the whole book. It was unique, refreshing, full of twists!
I wonder how the author can create this worlds!
Please try this one ...it worth every penny!
Of course we have the leading couple, but also the cousins, the son...and so on! You finish one chapter and jump to a new couple.
I really enjoyed the whole book. It was unique, refreshing, full of twists!
I wonder how the author can create this worlds!
Please try this one ...it worth every penny!
May 29, 2017
There were some spelling errors and sentence structure was off. Good effort.
There were some spelling errors and sentence structure was off in some places. Good effort. Storyline could have been improved upon.
There were some spelling errors and sentence structure was off in some places. Good effort. Storyline could have been improved upon.
June 3, 2017
4.5 stars
I enjoy this author. I suspect this to be an earlier work, the writing isn't as smooth, the editing a tad rough, BUT the humor, the characters and the world building make for a fun read!
I enjoy this author. I suspect this to be an earlier work, the writing isn't as smooth, the editing a tad rough, BUT the humor, the characters and the world building make for a fun read!
June 10, 2017
I don't usually like space kidnappings, but this series was no bad.
March 15, 2017
I really enjoyed this book!
First of all Lena is awesome, she isn't a helpless damsel in distress, but she also isn't overly cocky. She knows who she is and what she is capable of and it's pretty awesome.
This isn't really your typical love story, sure there are some feelings involved but this story is more logical and practical than most love stories which I really enjoyed.
This book also is a good lesson on snap judgements of people, so much nonsense could have been avoided in all of their lives had they reserved judgement.
First of all Lena is awesome, she isn't a helpless damsel in distress, but she also isn't overly cocky. She knows who she is and what she is capable of and it's pretty awesome.
This isn't really your typical love story, sure there are some feelings involved but this story is more logical and practical than most love stories which I really enjoyed.
This book also is a good lesson on snap judgements of people, so much nonsense could have been avoided in all of their lives had they reserved judgement.
June 2, 2016
This is one very high-octane, fast-paced story that never slows and never lets up. The genre is one I would define as “sci-fi erotic thriller.” Now that I know there are such things, I concede I’ll be wading into these waters more often. The story is even more impressive in that the B-story or romance part of the plot is not handled in cutaways from the A-Story to give you a breather from the latter. Instead, the romantic ups and downs are intermingled with the A-story and quite inseparable from it. This is a big part of the reason why the story never slows. Last but not least, the author’s humor and dry wit is in evidence on every page, and the snarky one-liners do a lot to drive the story as well as advance character. For this reason, the tale could also be classified as New Adult/College—what teen do you know that is devoid of sarcasm? They’re more aptly described as a sarcasm AI with a meat sack attached.
The story did have some speed bumps which is why I went with a four star rating, albeit this is arguably a strong four. Aside from the occasional typos, there was the frequent sense of being fed scenes that lacked in sufficient context and so of being disoriented and confused initially. Often the clarity would come in subsequent chapters, but I would have preferred better handholds as I went along, especially for a tale that moves this fast.
That said, the story is a lot of fun and I would definitely read more from this author, and will be only too happy to continue on with this series. The premise for this one is fascinating. The one human girl who can carry a baby to term for this advanced race is chosen to be wed to the supreme ruler of a galactic civilization. It’s a love-hate relationship from the get-go despite the preternatural sex appeal of this more advanced species. I liked how the author fed in the sci-fi elements using them to establish a strong sense of place and time, and to make the near-future come alive with die-for tech we can’t wait to get our hands on. Almost makes being invaded by an alien species worthwhile. The three-way tension between the supreme ruler’s closest confidant and friend, who also has feelings for our heroine, and the ruler and the girl sizzles and pops and is the main story engine driving the plot. I found myself liking all three characters, despite myself, and so I feel I just have to read on with the series now. I’m hooked.
The story did have some speed bumps which is why I went with a four star rating, albeit this is arguably a strong four. Aside from the occasional typos, there was the frequent sense of being fed scenes that lacked in sufficient context and so of being disoriented and confused initially. Often the clarity would come in subsequent chapters, but I would have preferred better handholds as I went along, especially for a tale that moves this fast.
That said, the story is a lot of fun and I would definitely read more from this author, and will be only too happy to continue on with this series. The premise for this one is fascinating. The one human girl who can carry a baby to term for this advanced race is chosen to be wed to the supreme ruler of a galactic civilization. It’s a love-hate relationship from the get-go despite the preternatural sex appeal of this more advanced species. I liked how the author fed in the sci-fi elements using them to establish a strong sense of place and time, and to make the near-future come alive with die-for tech we can’t wait to get our hands on. Almost makes being invaded by an alien species worthwhile. The three-way tension between the supreme ruler’s closest confidant and friend, who also has feelings for our heroine, and the ruler and the girl sizzles and pops and is the main story engine driving the plot. I found myself liking all three characters, despite myself, and so I feel I just have to read on with the series now. I’m hooked.
July 5, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
In this sci-fi romance, Earth and its inhabitants are ruled by the Klints, superior humanoid beings and inter-galactic heavy-weights. Klints need humans. They are reliant on human female breeders to ensure their superior bloodline survives. Advanced genetic testing finds matches for male Klints from among the female populace. The testing is relentless and far-reaching for Calden, the Klints’ emperor. When one Lena Smith is discovered to be Calden’s perfect genetic match, she is persuaded to bear the heir.
I like the change of pace a work of science fiction offers. The fantastic Klints with their brightly hued hair are imaginative and interesting. Lena is a formidable, lethal heroine who can certainly hold her own when up against an alpha emperor and his enlightened race. And for all her humanity, Lena proves she is indeed a contender. Other characters, like Calden’s right-hand Jaycen, are likeable and add to an overall pleasant read.
At its core, this love story is nothing new or innovative except for its unorthodox development. Calden and Lena’s relationship is based in convenience and logic, completely devoid of intimacy. Although the simmering sexual tension exists, it isn’t initially explored. Though they are a genetic match, a union between Calden and Lena would be impudent at best.
An entertaining read overall, I found it difficult to put Rise down. It’s fairly short. I don’t usually complain about a book being too short, however, I feel Rise would’ve benefitted from improved development in the second half. The ending, originally a cliff-hanger of sorts, has been enhanced. While this leads to a more satisfying read, the story arc becomes disjointed and a little awkward. I look forward to future installments in the Blue Bloods trilogy.
Reviewed for I Smell Sheep
http://www.ismellsheep.com/2016/06/bo...
In this sci-fi romance, Earth and its inhabitants are ruled by the Klints, superior humanoid beings and inter-galactic heavy-weights. Klints need humans. They are reliant on human female breeders to ensure their superior bloodline survives. Advanced genetic testing finds matches for male Klints from among the female populace. The testing is relentless and far-reaching for Calden, the Klints’ emperor. When one Lena Smith is discovered to be Calden’s perfect genetic match, she is persuaded to bear the heir.
I like the change of pace a work of science fiction offers. The fantastic Klints with their brightly hued hair are imaginative and interesting. Lena is a formidable, lethal heroine who can certainly hold her own when up against an alpha emperor and his enlightened race. And for all her humanity, Lena proves she is indeed a contender. Other characters, like Calden’s right-hand Jaycen, are likeable and add to an overall pleasant read.
At its core, this love story is nothing new or innovative except for its unorthodox development. Calden and Lena’s relationship is based in convenience and logic, completely devoid of intimacy. Although the simmering sexual tension exists, it isn’t initially explored. Though they are a genetic match, a union between Calden and Lena would be impudent at best.
An entertaining read overall, I found it difficult to put Rise down. It’s fairly short. I don’t usually complain about a book being too short, however, I feel Rise would’ve benefitted from improved development in the second half. The ending, originally a cliff-hanger of sorts, has been enhanced. While this leads to a more satisfying read, the story arc becomes disjointed and a little awkward. I look forward to future installments in the Blue Bloods trilogy.
Reviewed for I Smell Sheep
http://www.ismellsheep.com/2016/06/bo...
May 2, 2016
Another awesome work by May Sage! What I love most about her stories is that all of them are so different, all the while keeping that magical something that you can’t exactly pinpoint, but that’s what make all of them so absolutely unforgettable.
I think I read almost all of May’s modern fairy tales, and couldn’t wait to get my hands on her sci-fi romance, and it didn’t disappoint! The whole premise of the story, about how the alien race colonized the Earth to breed children with human females, is intriguing enough; however, when their emperor finds his perfect, scientifically proven, one hundred percent mate in Lena, the feisty redhead with a mysterious past who at first wants nothing to do with the Klints before she meets Calden, after that I couldn’t put the book down.
May created a completely new universe and presented it in such a realistic way that I felt like I was right in the middle of the action. And, of course, as always May kept her signature witty and sexy style of writing, which has already gained her so many fans. Beautiful work that deserves more than five stars!
I think I read almost all of May’s modern fairy tales, and couldn’t wait to get my hands on her sci-fi romance, and it didn’t disappoint! The whole premise of the story, about how the alien race colonized the Earth to breed children with human females, is intriguing enough; however, when their emperor finds his perfect, scientifically proven, one hundred percent mate in Lena, the feisty redhead with a mysterious past who at first wants nothing to do with the Klints before she meets Calden, after that I couldn’t put the book down.
May created a completely new universe and presented it in such a realistic way that I felt like I was right in the middle of the action. And, of course, as always May kept her signature witty and sexy style of writing, which has already gained her so many fans. Beautiful work that deserves more than five stars!
April 25, 2016
Brilliant! I loved it. This is not the typical alien/human fantasy, it is something entirely different and very well thought out. The world/worlds in which this story is set are lovingly created with everything seeming very real to the point the reader can happily lose themselves. The Emperor is exactly as he should be, given his upbringing and responsibilities but also something of a wildcard. Lena, who is his human breeder is very different and out of the mold. She is a strong, independent woman caught up in something not of her making. The interaction between them is quite electric and even the lesser characters have strong charisma.
I am going to be after getting the second book in this series. The taster in the back of this book shows it to be every bit as good. Highly recommended.
I am going to be after getting the second book in this series. The taster in the back of this book shows it to be every bit as good. Highly recommended.
March 3, 2016
This is my first book by May Sage, which I received in return for an honest review. It starts out a little choppy, setting the stage for current events. But once it settles in to the present time, it takes off and flies. I couldn't put it down until I came to the cliffhanger ending. (Book two, Rage:A New Threat, is available for pre-order, to be released April 15th.) I prefer books that have a solid HEA ending, then move on to the next book, making me want to see what happens next because that book is so good. This is an excellent start to that book. But it loses a star because of the serial, cliffie, aspect.
March 21, 2016
Fresh writing with great characters
I love this book, and I love the way the author writes. She writes some flat-out funny lines in this alien invasion story. She has a way with words and isn’t afraid to get a little dirty.
The first part is slow going, but keep reading. It skips forward in time and seems like an abridged version that doesn’t need to explain what’s going on. They feel like prologues to books that we don’t get to read. After about 30 or 40 pages, sticking to one time frame. That’s when this book picks up and gets really interesting. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I love this book, and I love the way the author writes. She writes some flat-out funny lines in this alien invasion story. She has a way with words and isn’t afraid to get a little dirty.
The first part is slow going, but keep reading. It skips forward in time and seems like an abridged version that doesn’t need to explain what’s going on. They feel like prologues to books that we don’t get to read. After about 30 or 40 pages, sticking to one time frame. That’s when this book picks up and gets really interesting. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2016
It took me a little while to get into the story at the beginning. I felt it was a bit short on information and atmosphere, especially about the Planet that the Klints came from.
Overall I enjoyed it. The concept was great and the characters were interesting. It is well written, where Alien meets human woman, with the intention to breed. The female character, Lena, was probably the best developed character, but I can't say I liked 'her.'
The story ends abruptly. I don't mind cliffhangers, and I believe there is a sequel, but it was perhaps just a little too hurried at the end, for my taste.
Overall, I enjoyed this fast paced, short read
Overall I enjoyed it. The concept was great and the characters were interesting. It is well written, where Alien meets human woman, with the intention to breed. The female character, Lena, was probably the best developed character, but I can't say I liked 'her.'
The story ends abruptly. I don't mind cliffhangers, and I believe there is a sequel, but it was perhaps just a little too hurried at the end, for my taste.
Overall, I enjoyed this fast paced, short read
May 2, 2016
Love with the alien
Man, earth taken over by a superior race that can no longer produce offspring. All because they preferred to create children without the benefits of male/female contact. They even decide the females that are created have no reproductive organs. (Must have been a male that came up with that plan). Turns out earth females are compatible. So what to do conquer earth of course. Lena does not want to be a breeder, she is a 100% match. Get her now or do they. No spoilers here. Read the book. You will learn things.
Man, earth taken over by a superior race that can no longer produce offspring. All because they preferred to create children without the benefits of male/female contact. They even decide the females that are created have no reproductive organs. (Must have been a male that came up with that plan). Turns out earth females are compatible. So what to do conquer earth of course. Lena does not want to be a breeder, she is a 100% match. Get her now or do they. No spoilers here. Read the book. You will learn things.
May 26, 2016
While I have some issues with the less than romantic start to the relationship in the story, that's my own idealism and something that I stumble over in some of my favorite books. It's actually appreciated that the author hasn't made everything easy, cut and dry; there is conflict, there is uncertainty, and there is humor. I'm very much enjoying this series so far and look forward to the next one. Definitely worth the read.
March 31, 2016
Fun romance
This is a fun, quick read. The characters draw you in and keep you reading. The only negative for me was the gratuitous cursing. Some of it flowed with the situation but not for most of it. It leaves you with a cliffhanger of sorts. I wish she had fleshed out the story a little more but the story is interesting and worth reading.
This is a fun, quick read. The characters draw you in and keep you reading. The only negative for me was the gratuitous cursing. Some of it flowed with the situation but not for most of it. It leaves you with a cliffhanger of sorts. I wish she had fleshed out the story a little more but the story is interesting and worth reading.
June 22, 2016
This was a well-written, fun, fast-paced book. It's the first in a 3-part story. Lena is just trying to live her life and get an education after the takeover of Earth by a race called the Klints. Their emperor, Calden, is looking for the most compatible match to bear his child. Sparks fly when these two cross paths! I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2016
Loved this book. A lot of surprises that kept it fun and interesting not to mention hot. I recommend it. I enjoyed reading and it kept my attention all the way through. I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2016
Not your everyday alien romance story
Great story that kept me enthralled all the way to the end. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Great story that kept me enthralled all the way to the end. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
April 17, 2016
a cute, sweet romance- very fast read. I love Lena. She kicks ass.
December 7, 2016
To be honest, when I first saw the cover I didn't think this would be my kind of book. I was so wrong! The story is captivating and amazing!
April 18, 2017
I liked the book a lot. The ending was a pretty big surprise to me. My favorite character would have to be Lena because of her courage, sarcasm and not taking anyones BS.
March 27, 2017
A very entertaining read
I love the worlds, or in this case universe, May Sage creates. I also liked that this read was longer than her usual stories. I look forward to reading more of her books.
I love the worlds, or in this case universe, May Sage creates. I also liked that this read was longer than her usual stories. I look forward to reading more of her books.
April 19, 2017
My first book from this author....
I personally like that the book was not broken down. You read about all the characters and their ending without having to wait for the next book. Xian's story was a bit abrupt, ending right in the middle only to pick back up at the end. Ok read.
I personally like that the book was not broken down. You read about all the characters and their ending without having to wait for the next book. Xian's story was a bit abrupt, ending right in the middle only to pick back up at the end. Ok read.
April 24, 2017
A Real Page Turner
Loved this book. We get 5 stories in one that give you a complete history and future for those alien Klint Empire. My favorite is Lena though, she is just bad @$$. Calden is perfect for her once he manned up. Also loved Alek holding out for Ava.
Loved this book. We get 5 stories in one that give you a complete history and future for those alien Klint Empire. My favorite is Lena though, she is just bad @$$. Calden is perfect for her once he manned up. Also loved Alek holding out for Ava.
April 27, 2017
The Author Ruined this Story
It would have been awesome if the author hadn't made it so darn choppy and tried to fit five stories into one. This would have been a great multi book series but instead it was a freaking hot mess of jumbled short stories.
It would have been awesome if the author hadn't made it so darn choppy and tried to fit five stories into one. This would have been a great multi book series but instead it was a freaking hot mess of jumbled short stories.
May 3, 2017
This wasn't something I was expecting from this story!
It's fortunately not a story about helpless women that needs to be protected from everything! She's a kickass heroine! I loved Lena!
But what will happen when your supposed mate is more logical and practical than anything?
I want more!
It's fortunately not a story about helpless women that needs to be protected from everything! She's a kickass heroine! I loved Lena!
But what will happen when your supposed mate is more logical and practical than anything?
I want more!
did-not-finish
October 8, 2017DNF'd @ 12%
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews