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Dark Planet Warriors #4.5
Darkside Blues
Be careful in Darkside, because its darkness is seductive. Once you feel its allure, you won’t be able to resist.
Zyara al Sirian has devoted most of her adult life to the art of healing. As the First Division’s medic, she’s seen more than her fair share of war wounds and trauma. And ever since the Kordolians arrived on Earth, she’s had her hands full tending to a motley group of survivors.
She hasn’t had a break in longer than she can remember.
A break? What’s that again?
After much persuasion, she finally agrees to take some well-deserved time off to explore the city with Sera, Arin, Jia, and their Kordolian mates.
You need to relax. It’ll be fun, you’ll see. Darkside comes alive at night.
When she crosses paths with a mysterious, charming Human called Kainan, she realizes there’s more to this lawless place than meets the eye. The Federation holds no sway here. Beneath Darkside’s glittering facade, Humans rule hidden empires from the shadows through secrecy and violence.
Zyara gets a taste of their world when Human conflict spills out onto the street. She can’t help but intervene. It’s what she was trained to do.
Her actions save a life. In return, Kainan says he will give her anything she desires.
Oh dear. What’s a Kordolian to do?
Warning: This book is a science-fiction alien romance. It contains swearing, violence, sensual sex scenes and silver aliens. It's definitely recommended for readers aged 18 and over.
Darkside Blues is a novella set in the Dark Planet Warriors universe. It will make more sense if you've read the other books first, although that's probably not absolutely essential.
Zyara al Sirian has devoted most of her adult life to the art of healing. As the First Division’s medic, she’s seen more than her fair share of war wounds and trauma. And ever since the Kordolians arrived on Earth, she’s had her hands full tending to a motley group of survivors.
She hasn’t had a break in longer than she can remember.
A break? What’s that again?
After much persuasion, she finally agrees to take some well-deserved time off to explore the city with Sera, Arin, Jia, and their Kordolian mates.
You need to relax. It’ll be fun, you’ll see. Darkside comes alive at night.
When she crosses paths with a mysterious, charming Human called Kainan, she realizes there’s more to this lawless place than meets the eye. The Federation holds no sway here. Beneath Darkside’s glittering facade, Humans rule hidden empires from the shadows through secrecy and violence.
Zyara gets a taste of their world when Human conflict spills out onto the street. She can’t help but intervene. It’s what she was trained to do.
Her actions save a life. In return, Kainan says he will give her anything she desires.
Oh dear. What’s a Kordolian to do?
Warning: This book is a science-fiction alien romance. It contains swearing, violence, sensual sex scenes and silver aliens. It's definitely recommended for readers aged 18 and over.
Darkside Blues is a novella set in the Dark Planet Warriors universe. It will make more sense if you've read the other books first, although that's probably not absolutely essential.
136 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2016
278 people are currently reading
348 people want to read
About the author
Anna Carven
59 books1,251 followersAnna Carven is a daydreamer. So much so that she's decided to make a living from it.
She has a penchant for big bad alpha heroes who reserve their secret soft gooey centers only for their fated mates and treasured little ones.
To stay in touch and find out about future releases, you can find her on Facebook, or join the mailing list.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annacarvenau...
Mailing list: http://eepurl.com/bQaHP5
She has a penchant for big bad alpha heroes who reserve their secret soft gooey centers only for their fated mates and treasured little ones.
To stay in touch and find out about future releases, you can find her on Facebook, or join the mailing list.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annacarvenau...
Mailing list: http://eepurl.com/bQaHP5
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
September 8, 2016
This is a great novella entry to Anna Carven's Dark Planet series. We meet up with favorites Abbey and Tarak, along with all the other pairings going on in the Kordolian/Human universe. This story is about First Division's lead medic Zyara. She is the only sympathetic Kordolian female we've seen in the four books of the series so far, and I had hoped she would get her own full length novel. Her character is interesting enough to merit that, and there was enough material in Darkside Blues to expand for a full novel. I hope when Ms. Carven has more time she gives Zyara's story a makeover. I would buy it.
For a novella, I thought the story could have been tighter in places and expanded in others. I wanted less about the gang war and the decadence of this futuristic "sin city," and more about Kai and his background, plus more one-on-one interaction with Zyara. We get a hint of insta-love here, which has not been typical of Carven's work to date. However, Zyara's reactions to this "human" world were terrific. While there has been some of this in other Dark Planet stories, the wonder, awe and incredulity blossom in this book. Very entertaining.
Like others have noted, Ms. Carven is cranking out books in this series very quickly. And they are quality. Each book lays out little kernels of potential future stories that would make terrific sequels. Keep it up Ms. Carven.
For a novella, I thought the story could have been tighter in places and expanded in others. I wanted less about the gang war and the decadence of this futuristic "sin city," and more about Kai and his background, plus more one-on-one interaction with Zyara. We get a hint of insta-love here, which has not been typical of Carven's work to date. However, Zyara's reactions to this "human" world were terrific. While there has been some of this in other Dark Planet stories, the wonder, awe and incredulity blossom in this book. Very entertaining.
Like others have noted, Ms. Carven is cranking out books in this series very quickly. And they are quality. Each book lays out little kernels of potential future stories that would make terrific sequels. Keep it up Ms. Carven.
September 29, 2019
.
I loved this one as much as the first book!!
Zyara finds love on the wild side of Earth... er rather, the Darkside. An area of Earth outside the law and ruled by gangs. One of these gangs is lead by Kai, the first lieutenant of the top mobster.
Kai is a dish!
They meet by chance under fire, and it was good timing for both of them.
Lots of intrigue, world building fill this short read to the brim.
The ending was a little rushed but other than that, I found this one hard to put down.
safety is good
I loved this one as much as the first book!!
Zyara finds love on the wild side of Earth... er rather, the Darkside. An area of Earth outside the law and ruled by gangs. One of these gangs is lead by Kai, the first lieutenant of the top mobster.
Kai is a dish!
They meet by chance under fire, and it was good timing for both of them.
Lots of intrigue, world building fill this short read to the brim.
The ending was a little rushed but other than that, I found this one hard to put down.
safety is good
March 14, 2022
More, now please!!
I just love these characters and their worlds. Zyara is such a fantastic intriguing character. Medic, warrior, woman. And Kai, so many layers and levels.
Can't wait for Arin Varga and Rykal's backstory.
The story is so focussed on the main characters that you can jump in here without having read the previous books. But do yourself a favor and read them, wow.
Looking forward to the next release from this author wether it's this universe or another.
I just love these characters and their worlds. Zyara is such a fantastic intriguing character. Medic, warrior, woman. And Kai, so many layers and levels.
Can't wait for Arin Varga and Rykal's backstory.
The story is so focussed on the main characters that you can jump in here without having read the previous books. But do yourself a favor and read them, wow.
Looking forward to the next release from this author wether it's this universe or another.
November 22, 2021
'Like most of the inhabitants of Darkside, she instantly recognized him for what he was. Details mattered. His distinctive dark, tailored suit and the small round pin at his lapel, the Ouroboros symbol of his clan, gave him away.'
What really sucked about this book is that it felt really, really rushed when it had the potential, if it had been explored, to be the strongest one of the series. It was majorly set on the darkside of Earth, the unregulated part of town, and featured some fascinating concepts of clans and turf wars that gave me Six of Crow vibes. But, a lot of interesting things were raised and then mostly tossed aside in favor of the also rushed-feeling romantic "plot". So, great concepts and interesting characters that just ended up falling flat because they weren't given the time and exploration to let their real potential shine.
What really sucked about this book is that it felt really, really rushed when it had the potential, if it had been explored, to be the strongest one of the series. It was majorly set on the darkside of Earth, the unregulated part of town, and featured some fascinating concepts of clans and turf wars that gave me Six of Crow vibes. But, a lot of interesting things were raised and then mostly tossed aside in favor of the also rushed-feeling romantic "plot". So, great concepts and interesting characters that just ended up falling flat because they weren't given the time and exploration to let their real potential shine.
September 12, 2016
I love it when in the alien romance the human is male.
The hero in this is an honorable mob boss. Not that the heroines cares that he is honor. She figures his job is a job like any other.
I love in this series that humans are seen for their strengths as well as their follies.
The hero is mega sexy. A sharp dressed asian gang tattooed man. I can't tell if he is asian but it is likely that he is mixed in some way.
The heroine is the wonderful healer from the series. The romance is very good and sexy as hell.
He loves that she is so strong.
This part of the world is kind of dropped on the reader which made me not love the book in terms of the series plot arc and the novella is shorter than the love story deserved but it a pleasurable morsel of a book.
The hero in this is an honorable mob boss. Not that the heroines cares that he is honor. She figures his job is a job like any other.
I love in this series that humans are seen for their strengths as well as their follies.
The hero is mega sexy. A sharp dressed asian gang tattooed man. I can't tell if he is asian but it is likely that he is mixed in some way.
The heroine is the wonderful healer from the series. The romance is very good and sexy as hell.
He loves that she is so strong.
This part of the world is kind of dropped on the reader which made me not love the book in terms of the series plot arc and the novella is shorter than the love story deserved but it a pleasurable morsel of a book.
November 14, 2018
I'm a huge fan of this series and in this short story we get to learn more about the famous Kordolian First Division medic Zyara. She's always been a little aloof and very focused on her job. Finally we get to see her let down her hair and fall in love. I enjoyed getting to know Kai; he really deserves some happiness after the life he's lived.
The cover model needs to have lilac hair...at least the got the eye color right.
The cover model needs to have lilac hair...at least the got the eye color right.
September 27, 2019
This was fine, probably more of a 2.5 stars rounded up because I liked the setting more than anything. But story-wise it doesn't really have alot to do with the overarching storyline and it's wrapped up hella quick. It's just ok, and an easy one to skip.
September 9, 2016
4 Kordolian Stars
I love me some Kordolians, I just love how they have come to Earth. this time though the loan Kordolian Medic Zyara meets he match in the Ourboro boss master Kia. I can't wait to read about them in future books.
One small complaint. It has several grammatical errors I did find annoying.
I love me some Kordolians, I just love how they have come to Earth. this time though the loan Kordolian Medic Zyara meets he match in the Ourboro boss master Kia. I can't wait to read about them in future books.
One small complaint. It has several grammatical errors I did find annoying.
May 31, 2017
Darkside Blues by Anna Carven is a novella centered on the First Division's female medic, Zyara. While spending a night in the town with some of the human mates, Zyara sees a girl injured in a fight between rival gangs and jumps in to save her. She meets Kai, a gangster who control the North side of lawless Darkside; and as thanks for helping the girl he offers her anything she needs, anytime she needs it. Zyara doesn't expect to require his help; but when two of the children rescued from the lab are in desperate need of a rare medication, Zyara decides to try asking Kai for help.
An excellent albeit short addition to the Dark Warriors series. 4 stars.
An excellent albeit short addition to the Dark Warriors series. 4 stars.
August 5, 2021
Why did the only Kordolian female in the First Division get the shortest story? This was a great story and could have been longer. There could have been more indepth backstory on Kainan and his gangster clan. Of course this book wasn't fluffed out with bedroom scenes like Tarak and Abbey's second book about their pregnancy. Hopefully the author revisits this couple and shows us more of their life together. I want to see how Kainan is adjusting to his new life in the Kordolian society being built on Earth.
November 27, 2021
The romance was meh, but the back story was good.
September 28, 2023
3.5
Really loved Zyara and Kai's story and actually wish it was longer.
The only downside is Carven could really use a couple more editing passes...
Really loved Zyara and Kai's story and actually wish it was longer.
The only downside is Carven could really use a couple more editing passes...
January 2, 2018
Fun love story
Finally we get to know more about Zyara. She is really interesting, and not just because she is the only female Kordolian in the fleet. I love her love story. Kai is really interesting too. Of course she would fall for a gangster. Still he isn't completely cold blooded but he protects what is his, just like the other males in this series. It is definitely fun to see him interact with the Kordolian soldiers. This is definitely an important part of the series so I am not sure why it is 4.5 in the series. I read this after the 5th book and it was fine.
Finally we get to know more about Zyara. She is really interesting, and not just because she is the only female Kordolian in the fleet. I love her love story. Kai is really interesting too. Of course she would fall for a gangster. Still he isn't completely cold blooded but he protects what is his, just like the other males in this series. It is definitely fun to see him interact with the Kordolian soldiers. This is definitely an important part of the series so I am not sure why it is 4.5 in the series. I read this after the 5th book and it was fine.
Want to read
October 17, 2019**Note From Author**
If you wish to read the series chronologically, I’d suggest the following order:
Book 1.0: Dark Planet Warriors (originally a serial made up of Invasion, Taken, Escape)
Book 4.0: Out of Darkness
Book 5.0: Forged in Shadow
Book 7.0: Electric Heart
Book 2.0: Dark Planet Falling
Book 3.0: Into the Light
Book 4.5: Darkside Blues
Book 6.0: Infinity's Embrace
Book 8.0: Brilliant Starlight
Book 8.1: Earth Files: Book 1
Book 8.5: Sanctuary
If you wish to read the series chronologically, I’d suggest the following order:
Book 1.0: Dark Planet Warriors (originally a serial made up of Invasion, Taken, Escape)
Book 4.0: Out of Darkness
Book 5.0: Forged in Shadow
Book 7.0: Electric Heart
Book 2.0: Dark Planet Falling
Book 3.0: Into the Light
Book 4.5: Darkside Blues
Book 6.0: Infinity's Embrace
Book 8.0: Brilliant Starlight
Book 8.1: Earth Files: Book 1
Book 8.5: Sanctuary
February 5, 2017
My least favorite in the series so far... Probably because it so short, but the characters, especially Kainan seemed one dimensional. The story could have been fleshed out a bit more... with Zyara's back story for example. And overall I was just disappointed that the one female Kordolian in the series didn't get a full book of her own.
October 9, 2016
Absolutely captivating
This book is just as good if better, than the previous ones? A love story with enough action and drama to keep you glued to the story. A captivating series, I love each book and hope to see more.
This book is just as good if better, than the previous ones? A love story with enough action and drama to keep you glued to the story. A captivating series, I love each book and hope to see more.
January 20, 2017
My favorite in the series.
December 31, 2018
Not into alpha heroines with beta heroes, which was how I found the characterisation in this one. It's just my personal thing. Nothing wrong with the writing at all.
June 26, 2018
This was really pretty good up until the end. I really liked Kai and the whole gangster thing going on. And Zyara deserves to be happy as much as anyone does. My problem was the very end. I'm not really into redemption stories or the sort, so I wasn't expecting Kai to want to become a good guy and do what he did. I was actually pretty shocked by it and not in a good way.
A couple of the girls convince Zyara to go to Darkside with them and their mates one night and for some reason, she relents. I'm not sure she was actually enjoying herself much, but she did learn that her people should really stay away from alcohol. While outside trying to clear her head a gang fight brakes out with an innocent girl caught in the middle. She knows she should stay out of human affairs, but the doctor in her can't allow a child to die when she might be able to save her. What Zyara didn't know was that the girl was the daughter of a huge mob boss.
Kai is one of the most powerful people under the boss and controls the North territory. He was in the middle of something else when he received notice of the attack and goes there as soon as he can. He's surprised to see a Kordolian helping the girl, but knows she needs a hospital and fast. He shows no fear of her, and no fear of the other warriors when the surround him and refuse to let him take Zyara with him.
Zyara is impressed with this human male and interested in the conflicting ways him and his people act. But she knows that they're from two very different worlds and doesn't expect to see him again. When Tarak and his men rescued Abbey they also rescued so many others that were put thru horrible experiments. Two of them require something hard to get or they will revert to nothing but animals, losing themselves completely. Kai said he owes her a favor and she decides to call it in to get what she needs to help the twins.
Kai can't get the beautiful Kordolian out of his head, but he has a lot bigger problems to deal with now. He's being framed for ordering the attack, the boss is dying, and he's got so many enemies that would like to see him dead closing in. But when Zyara shows up at his house, he finds himself wanting to show her a night on the town instead of worrying about everything else. It all starts off well enough, but it's not long until their night is ruined and they go back to his house. The next day Zyara finds out what was done to Kai and knows that she can fix it but she has do it on Silence and she has to do it fast. Afterwards it's another 'this is what happened' and a time skip. Like I said, I did not really like the end much at all. Though what the boss did as his last act was pretty cool in a bad mob boss kind of way.
A couple of the girls convince Zyara to go to Darkside with them and their mates one night and for some reason, she relents. I'm not sure she was actually enjoying herself much, but she did learn that her people should really stay away from alcohol. While outside trying to clear her head a gang fight brakes out with an innocent girl caught in the middle. She knows she should stay out of human affairs, but the doctor in her can't allow a child to die when she might be able to save her. What Zyara didn't know was that the girl was the daughter of a huge mob boss.
Kai is one of the most powerful people under the boss and controls the North territory. He was in the middle of something else when he received notice of the attack and goes there as soon as he can. He's surprised to see a Kordolian helping the girl, but knows she needs a hospital and fast. He shows no fear of her, and no fear of the other warriors when the surround him and refuse to let him take Zyara with him.
Zyara is impressed with this human male and interested in the conflicting ways him and his people act. But she knows that they're from two very different worlds and doesn't expect to see him again. When Tarak and his men rescued Abbey they also rescued so many others that were put thru horrible experiments. Two of them require something hard to get or they will revert to nothing but animals, losing themselves completely. Kai said he owes her a favor and she decides to call it in to get what she needs to help the twins.
Kai can't get the beautiful Kordolian out of his head, but he has a lot bigger problems to deal with now. He's being framed for ordering the attack, the boss is dying, and he's got so many enemies that would like to see him dead closing in. But when Zyara shows up at his house, he finds himself wanting to show her a night on the town instead of worrying about everything else. It all starts off well enough, but it's not long until their night is ruined and they go back to his house. The next day Zyara finds out what was done to Kai and knows that she can fix it but she has do it on Silence and she has to do it fast. Afterwards it's another 'this is what happened' and a time skip. Like I said, I did not really like the end much at all. Though what the boss did as his last act was pretty cool in a bad mob boss kind of way.
September 28, 2025
**MINOR SPOILERS**
This novella is part of a plethora of books, novellas, and at least two spin off series of Dark Planet Warriors. The books were published out of chronological order. When I started reading this book, I thought it should be read after Dark Planet Falling, but there were references to events that took place after that, and it should be read after Into the Light. Though this is a novella, it does a great job at providing detail and a robust story. I do not recommend it as a standalone.
Zyara, a medic for an alien race that is taking refuge on Earth, is going out for an evening with a group. She takes a momentary break from the music and alcohol and goes outside just as an attack is made on a convoy of cars. The convoy is for the 13 year old daughter of a gangleader/godfather and she is injured. Zyara intervenes and saves her life.
One of the leaders of the gang, Kai, is immediately impressed with and attracted to Zyara. He is close with the gangleader and he finds out his boss is dying and the attack was meant to lead to Kai’s death. His boss tells him who was behind the attack and what he needs to do next.
Zyara is researching on how to reverse the effects of some experiments that were done on humans. Finding out about the lab that did the research was in Into the Light. Note: the doctor who did some of the experiments is referenced in this book.
Their worlds collide and they learn about each other. Zyara helps Kai and he trusts her to do so. Kai believes in her research and helps her to move it forward.
The pace of the book is fast. The point of view alternates between Kai and Zyara. While the story was interesting, the relationship developed in the space of a couple of meetings.
Spoiler… you slowly realize that Kai has been planning a life change for a long time and at the end of the book, you find out what it was.
I think it would be nice for the author to include a reference list in the books. Included could be the names of the different male and female main characters, planets mentioned, aliens mentioned, and maybe a few word translations (siv, etc) that the Kordolians use.
I had already purchased the next book in the series.
This novella is part of a plethora of books, novellas, and at least two spin off series of Dark Planet Warriors. The books were published out of chronological order. When I started reading this book, I thought it should be read after Dark Planet Falling, but there were references to events that took place after that, and it should be read after Into the Light. Though this is a novella, it does a great job at providing detail and a robust story. I do not recommend it as a standalone.
Zyara, a medic for an alien race that is taking refuge on Earth, is going out for an evening with a group. She takes a momentary break from the music and alcohol and goes outside just as an attack is made on a convoy of cars. The convoy is for the 13 year old daughter of a gangleader/godfather and she is injured. Zyara intervenes and saves her life.
One of the leaders of the gang, Kai, is immediately impressed with and attracted to Zyara. He is close with the gangleader and he finds out his boss is dying and the attack was meant to lead to Kai’s death. His boss tells him who was behind the attack and what he needs to do next.
Zyara is researching on how to reverse the effects of some experiments that were done on humans. Finding out about the lab that did the research was in Into the Light. Note: the doctor who did some of the experiments is referenced in this book.
Their worlds collide and they learn about each other. Zyara helps Kai and he trusts her to do so. Kai believes in her research and helps her to move it forward.
The pace of the book is fast. The point of view alternates between Kai and Zyara. While the story was interesting, the relationship developed in the space of a couple of meetings.
Spoiler… you slowly realize that Kai has been planning a life change for a long time and at the end of the book, you find out what it was.
I think it would be nice for the author to include a reference list in the books. Included could be the names of the different male and female main characters, planets mentioned, aliens mentioned, and maybe a few word translations (siv, etc) that the Kordolians use.
I had already purchased the next book in the series.
August 5, 2018
A wonderful little interlude Kordoliain-style in the Dark Planet Warriors series!!
Anna Carven’s Dark Planet Warriors series has been an all-time favorite of mine, yet I always wondered after Book Three what would be Zyara’s story? I’ve always had so many questions about Kordolian women including what they looked like, what where their social roles in society, especially when involving the Court. How are they treated when there are so few females compared to males and what was going on regarding their plummeting fertility?
Well, most of these questions weren’t answered, but I was amazed how much I really enjoyed this novella when I’m not the novella-loving person. (I prefer novels far more.) But somehow Ms. Carven managed to cram in enough details to make it very satisfying when I had just a little time time sneak in a short book.
As with most mafioso stories, most writers don’t push the envelope. Some even go has far as make this genre look so much like hearts and flowers. Gah! I want some realism, and I did get it. But Kordolians, especially Zyara, kick bigger ass. I rather liked seeing Kai realize that such an ass-kicking female was exactly what he needed in his life, someone who could easily take over control and make him all vulnerable and open. (Sometimes big, alpha males need this.)
So this is one of the rare novellas that get a five-star rating from me. The writing is well-done, and I had a chance to enjoy a read rather than find myself editing it. I had a few questions of mine answered. I also now can’t wait for a few things in my life to calm down so I can read the rest of this frickin’ series! It’s so worth it!
Anna Carven’s Dark Planet Warriors series has been an all-time favorite of mine, yet I always wondered after Book Three what would be Zyara’s story? I’ve always had so many questions about Kordolian women including what they looked like, what where their social roles in society, especially when involving the Court. How are they treated when there are so few females compared to males and what was going on regarding their plummeting fertility?
Well, most of these questions weren’t answered, but I was amazed how much I really enjoyed this novella when I’m not the novella-loving person. (I prefer novels far more.) But somehow Ms. Carven managed to cram in enough details to make it very satisfying when I had just a little time time sneak in a short book.
As with most mafioso stories, most writers don’t push the envelope. Some even go has far as make this genre look so much like hearts and flowers. Gah! I want some realism, and I did get it. But Kordolians, especially Zyara, kick bigger ass. I rather liked seeing Kai realize that such an ass-kicking female was exactly what he needed in his life, someone who could easily take over control and make him all vulnerable and open. (Sometimes big, alpha males need this.)
So this is one of the rare novellas that get a five-star rating from me. The writing is well-done, and I had a chance to enjoy a read rather than find myself editing it. I had a few questions of mine answered. I also now can’t wait for a few things in my life to calm down so I can read the rest of this frickin’ series! It’s so worth it!
August 7, 2025
LOVED IT!
I am really loving this series by Anna Craven. I’m no stranger to sci-fi and alien romance, but this series really stands out. The technology of Kordolians is mind blowing. The characters are deep and complex, incredibly skilled and deadly, yet tender and gentle with their human mates. I like that Earth is set in a prosperous future. Yes, the human governments are still just as despicable and corrupt As ever, and regular citizens are as clever and creative and determined as ever. And even though the Kordolians MO is typically invasion and subjugation, since their biggest baddest general fell in love with a human, they’re playing nice. Just don’t try to tell them what they can and can’t do on earth because they don’t give a sht. They’re here to stay and humans can just suck it up and appreciate the fact they’re not being ‘invaded’ while the aliens set up shop in the desert and build themselves a nice impenetrable compound to hand out in. So this review doesn’t have much to do with this particular book on the series, but my kindle app doesn’t always let me leave a review so I had to take this opportunity to finally share my thoughts. This book, of course, was great. I was glad to see the only female Kordolian on earth get herself a nice chiseled and lethal human of her own. Definitely start the series with Dark Planet Warriors!!
I am really loving this series by Anna Craven. I’m no stranger to sci-fi and alien romance, but this series really stands out. The technology of Kordolians is mind blowing. The characters are deep and complex, incredibly skilled and deadly, yet tender and gentle with their human mates. I like that Earth is set in a prosperous future. Yes, the human governments are still just as despicable and corrupt As ever, and regular citizens are as clever and creative and determined as ever. And even though the Kordolians MO is typically invasion and subjugation, since their biggest baddest general fell in love with a human, they’re playing nice. Just don’t try to tell them what they can and can’t do on earth because they don’t give a sht. They’re here to stay and humans can just suck it up and appreciate the fact they’re not being ‘invaded’ while the aliens set up shop in the desert and build themselves a nice impenetrable compound to hand out in. So this review doesn’t have much to do with this particular book on the series, but my kindle app doesn’t always let me leave a review so I had to take this opportunity to finally share my thoughts. This book, of course, was great. I was glad to see the only female Kordolian on earth get herself a nice chiseled and lethal human of her own. Definitely start the series with Dark Planet Warriors!!
May 12, 2018
The calm, competent medic of Tarak's troops and a gangster with a noble streak. While they aren't necessarily two you'd think would hit it off, they work surprisingly well together. After all, Zyara comes from a people known to be ruthless and a little bloodthirsty. She can more than hold her own against Kai and his ways.
Not that she needs to hold her own, so to speak. Kai's pretty smitten with her and will do whatever it takes to make sure she's protected while in his territory. But when things go down, Zyara isn't some shrinking violet who fades into the background. Nope. She stands her ground and does her thing.
I am thoroughly enjoying watching these Kordollians fall one by one. They're fierce, determined, and aren't afraid to get their hands dirty. You know, if they need to.
Frankly, they seem to need to a lot. Which makes for some good reading.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Not that she needs to hold her own, so to speak. Kai's pretty smitten with her and will do whatever it takes to make sure she's protected while in his territory. But when things go down, Zyara isn't some shrinking violet who fades into the background. Nope. She stands her ground and does her thing.
I am thoroughly enjoying watching these Kordollians fall one by one. They're fierce, determined, and aren't afraid to get their hands dirty. You know, if they need to.
Frankly, they seem to need to a lot. Which makes for some good reading.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
August 6, 2017
Zyara and Kai
This story takes place on earth; I enjoyed the previous stories in space more than this one.
Zyara is a Kordolian Doctor. She and friends venture into the Darkside for a night of bar hopping. While there she witnesses an ambush of some cars and sees a young girl get stabbed. Zyara fights her way to the girl in hopes of saving her life before she bleeds to death. Once they make it to the hospital she meets Kai, the girls guardian. There is interest between them but then neither is in a position to start any type of relationship. Kai does tell Zyara he owes her a favor for saving Melian- what ever she needs, whenever she needs it.
There was more build up to the relationship than during their time together and a lot of background was covered for such a short story. I still enjoyed it but felt the whole plot would be more suited to a full length novel.
This story takes place on earth; I enjoyed the previous stories in space more than this one.
Zyara is a Kordolian Doctor. She and friends venture into the Darkside for a night of bar hopping. While there she witnesses an ambush of some cars and sees a young girl get stabbed. Zyara fights her way to the girl in hopes of saving her life before she bleeds to death. Once they make it to the hospital she meets Kai, the girls guardian. There is interest between them but then neither is in a position to start any type of relationship. Kai does tell Zyara he owes her a favor for saving Melian- what ever she needs, whenever she needs it.
There was more build up to the relationship than during their time together and a lot of background was covered for such a short story. I still enjoyed it but felt the whole plot would be more suited to a full length novel.
January 9, 2019
Excellent!
I really enjoyed reading your his book. Of course, I had already read the rest of the series, which is essential if you want to truly understand and enjoy the storyline!
My only complaint is that there is not an audio version of this book. The rest of the series, seven more books are all on Audiobooks and are incredible! I have listened to them twice and am on my third round, lol! I've even got my husband listening with me.
Be aware, this book and the others are full of erotic scenes that are fiery and intense. This is definitely not for young readers, 18+ only!
If you enjoy alien civilizations mixing with earthlings, this series will be right up your alley.
I really enjoyed reading your his book. Of course, I had already read the rest of the series, which is essential if you want to truly understand and enjoy the storyline!
My only complaint is that there is not an audio version of this book. The rest of the series, seven more books are all on Audiobooks and are incredible! I have listened to them twice and am on my third round, lol! I've even got my husband listening with me.
Be aware, this book and the others are full of erotic scenes that are fiery and intense. This is definitely not for young readers, 18+ only!
If you enjoy alien civilizations mixing with earthlings, this series will be right up your alley.
July 23, 2021
Walk on the wild side
Zymara the Kordolian medic finally takes time off from her duty-bound workaholic life to go clubbing with friends. In the Darkside she saves a girl during a street brawl/gang war, and ends up meeting Kainan the chillingly handsome mob underboss. Her thing for the bad boy gets them both caught up in an underworld as treacherous and violent as her long forgotten life at the Kardolian court. It’s a novella with steamy sex, and a dark underworld atmosphere that really puts you into the story. I wish it had been a bit longer and more fleshed out, but I really liked it anyway.
Zymara the Kordolian medic finally takes time off from her duty-bound workaholic life to go clubbing with friends. In the Darkside she saves a girl during a street brawl/gang war, and ends up meeting Kainan the chillingly handsome mob underboss. Her thing for the bad boy gets them both caught up in an underworld as treacherous and violent as her long forgotten life at the Kardolian court. It’s a novella with steamy sex, and a dark underworld atmosphere that really puts you into the story. I wish it had been a bit longer and more fleshed out, but I really liked it anyway.
June 5, 2017
I loved the storyline, but not the text errors.
The story was fun and futuristic, which I was expecting in this series. Although the text was spell checked, it was not edited for grammatical errors. This type of errors push me out of the stories and make me wonder why no one had the time to read through the book and correct these glaring errors. Was the book rushed through to be completed? I can only guess that was the cause. I wanted to give the storyline a five star revue, but I felt it may garner more attention to this problem with a lower revue.
The story was fun and futuristic, which I was expecting in this series. Although the text was spell checked, it was not edited for grammatical errors. This type of errors push me out of the stories and make me wonder why no one had the time to read through the book and correct these glaring errors. Was the book rushed through to be completed? I can only guess that was the cause. I wanted to give the storyline a five star revue, but I felt it may garner more attention to this problem with a lower revue.
January 30, 2023
So happy to see Kyara find her human mate. While this is actually the length of a novella, there is enough action and drama to make it a real page turner. I think while some thought it rushed, I liked that only the important parts were there without all the filler longer books sometimes use.
Kai was at the end of his old life and really didn't need to have lots of drama to feel the relief of his new life with Kyara.
While I read this via Kindle Unlimited, I think it well worth my time and $$.
Kai was at the end of his old life and really didn't need to have lots of drama to feel the relief of his new life with Kyara.
While I read this via Kindle Unlimited, I think it well worth my time and $$.
January 25, 2024
Good
This novella features the Kordolian Medic Zyara, and a human from Darkside, Kainan, who is a bit of a bad boy himself!
It’s a fairly quick, short read, with a couple of enjoyable cameos. Chronologically this is seventh in series, and is set shortly after “Into the Light”. You will definitely need to have read the first four books (publishing order) since otherwise this will spoiler things, and to be fair there are also mild spoilers for books five and seven too.
An enjoyable story, this is a must read for Kordolian lovers.
This novella features the Kordolian Medic Zyara, and a human from Darkside, Kainan, who is a bit of a bad boy himself!
It’s a fairly quick, short read, with a couple of enjoyable cameos. Chronologically this is seventh in series, and is set shortly after “Into the Light”. You will definitely need to have read the first four books (publishing order) since otherwise this will spoiler things, and to be fair there are also mild spoilers for books five and seven too.
An enjoyable story, this is a must read for Kordolian lovers.
March 22, 2017
Should have been longer. Zyara and Kai could have had a lot more story to tell. The ending was hurried and too easy. Lots of missed chances on real intimacy and feeling between the two characters. I would have liked to know what the other Kordolins thought of her mating a human. Kai was a cool character but I wanted him to have more chances to be a bad guy since he is supposed to be a gangster. Then redemption is so much sweeter. The whole implant/virus thing would have been a great area to bring in some depth, but it was just hurriedly fixed. If Carven wanted to do right by these characters, she should have written a more complete story. Complex characters whittled down to a couple of scenes and a quick happy ever after. Seems like a missed opportunity.
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