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Ruth & Gron #4
Ruth's Baby
The Gandry tribe has settled down after Moira's arrival, but Ruth still feels that something is wrong. The way Gron is acting makes her think he expected something to be different. They want a family, but it's not happening on it's own, so Ruth makes the momentous decision to ask T'Lax for help, and do whatever it takes to hold Gron's baby in her arms.
This is a 40,000 word novella, and it is recommended that this series be read in order.
This is a 40,000 word novella, and it is recommended that this series be read in order.
140 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 10, 2017
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157 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
April 21, 2017
Ruth and Gron Make a Baby
Ruth and Moira make some tools and a house while Gron and the Greenies help with the baby. The author addresses inter-species mingling, but spends way too much time addressing making necklaces and floor mats. The redeeming parts are the ever present sweetness of Gron and the sense of community from the Gandry. This novella will appeal to fans of the series, extending stories of familiar characters. 2.5 rounded to 3 stars.
Ruth and Moira make some tools and a house while Gron and the Greenies help with the baby. The author addresses inter-species mingling, but spends way too much time addressing making necklaces and floor mats. The redeeming parts are the ever present sweetness of Gron and the sense of community from the Gandry. This novella will appeal to fans of the series, extending stories of familiar characters. 2.5 rounded to 3 stars.
April 20, 2017
3 1/2 stars, I liked this one and loved book one and two but reading this one made me wish I had went back and read the first two books over so I could refresh my memory and because I liked them so much. This is a short and sweet book and a nice follow up to Gron and Ruth's story. We also get a nice sneak peak into the next book which I can't wait for. I never read book three (I'm not into Multi partner books) but I will say reading this book (which has the couple from book three in it) I was a little lost with their situation, and again I don't and never have read MFM so maybe it's me but their relationship seems very strange.
April 15, 2017
If you are reading this series, of course you should read this book.
It is sweet and fun return to this world. I would have liked to be in the other heroine's storyline more as well but I enjoyed this baby seeking adventure.
Feels like it might be the last book in this series.
It is sweet and fun return to this world. I would have liked to be in the other heroine's storyline more as well but I enjoyed this baby seeking adventure.
Feels like it might be the last book in this series.
June 6, 2018
This is a combined review for - Ruth's Bonded, Gron's Fated, Unbonded and Ruth's Baby
I wish I could remember where I picked up the recommendation for this series, because I loved it. So, whoever/wherever this was recommended to me clearly knows exactly what I love; really alien aliens. I lap it up! If my hero is coming has a different planet of origin than mine, then I want him to be undeniably alien. I know not everyone feels the same way, but apparently V.C. Lancaster does!
But, because Gron and our alien hero and his fellow alien friends have a pelt, tail and really really big sharp fangs, I know not everyone is going to appreciate this series like I do. Gron lives in a matriarchal and primitive society where the females are larger and more aggressive. The female, the Queen, rules over an all male tribe and she has a select few of those males as her mates. It’s good to be Queen! But, Gron has been abducted from his tribe and locked in a metal box. Ruth, a human woman is thrown in with him…and this where the fun begins.
Not only do Ruth and Gron have massive cultural and societal difficulties to overcome, they also have to do this without being able to speak to one another. For reasons explained in the series they are unable to speak one another’s language so they have to find other ways to communicate. I admit, this aspect of the story was strange at first they never have a typical verbal conversation through the whole series. But I found the way they came together with only basic communication and demonstrating their feelings through actions and body language…kind of sweet. It was all show and no tell. It is also easier to come to terms with this lack of verbal communication as the book switches between Ruth and Gron’s POV. So, even though they might not be able to know what the other is thinking as the reader, we do.
But, Ruth and Gron aren’t the only couple in this series the third book Unbonded gives a menage story between another human woman. Moira is abducted and ends up being saved by some familiar aliens from the previous books who help her try and adapt to this new world and bring her back to Ruth and Gron’s tribe. I admit, I missed Ruth and Gron, our original couple, in this book and I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first two in the series, however, it was still a good read with plenty of alien hotness.
I loved this series, beneath the strange looking aliens it was an adorable love story with plenty of heat. Who knew tails could be so sexy? As soon as the next book comes out I will be all over it! So, if you like a sweet alien love story I highly recommend giving this one a go.
I wish I could remember where I picked up the recommendation for this series, because I loved it. So, whoever/wherever this was recommended to me clearly knows exactly what I love; really alien aliens. I lap it up! If my hero is coming has a different planet of origin than mine, then I want him to be undeniably alien. I know not everyone feels the same way, but apparently V.C. Lancaster does!
But, because Gron and our alien hero and his fellow alien friends have a pelt, tail and really really big sharp fangs, I know not everyone is going to appreciate this series like I do. Gron lives in a matriarchal and primitive society where the females are larger and more aggressive. The female, the Queen, rules over an all male tribe and she has a select few of those males as her mates. It’s good to be Queen! But, Gron has been abducted from his tribe and locked in a metal box. Ruth, a human woman is thrown in with him…and this where the fun begins.
Not only do Ruth and Gron have massive cultural and societal difficulties to overcome, they also have to do this without being able to speak to one another. For reasons explained in the series they are unable to speak one another’s language so they have to find other ways to communicate. I admit, this aspect of the story was strange at first they never have a typical verbal conversation through the whole series. But I found the way they came together with only basic communication and demonstrating their feelings through actions and body language…kind of sweet. It was all show and no tell. It is also easier to come to terms with this lack of verbal communication as the book switches between Ruth and Gron’s POV. So, even though they might not be able to know what the other is thinking as the reader, we do.
But, Ruth and Gron aren’t the only couple in this series the third book Unbonded gives a menage story between another human woman. Moira is abducted and ends up being saved by some familiar aliens from the previous books who help her try and adapt to this new world and bring her back to Ruth and Gron’s tribe. I admit, I missed Ruth and Gron, our original couple, in this book and I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first two in the series, however, it was still a good read with plenty of alien hotness.
I loved this series, beneath the strange looking aliens it was an adorable love story with plenty of heat. Who knew tails could be so sexy? As soon as the next book comes out I will be all over it! So, if you like a sweet alien love story I highly recommend giving this one a go.
May 4, 2017
This would have been 5+ stars if it would have been dual POV with Gron's perspective. This one was all about Ruth asking the toad alien guys to help her get pregnant. Eventually they figure out how to manipulate the chromosomes to make it work and impregnate her. She has to sneak off a few times making Gron go crazy. Again we haven't gotten his pov since she practically died in his arms in book two. I REALLY wanted to know what he was thinking. He sniffs her to make sure she wasn't with anyone else. When he finds the beads she is using to surprise him with a father necklace his reaction was priceless. He has to make sure he is the father but after that he is soooooo thrilled. A bit of a complicated birth but a hybrid baby boy is born. It jumps 3 years and many changes have happened. They have houses, fire, and cooked food. Their son leaned the Gandry language first, then English. Gron asks his son to tell his mom that she has his heart. I balled like a baby realizing he is finally telling her he loves her with his son as a translator. It was a beautiful ending. The other mates also have a baby girl, though we don't know who is the father.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2018
By the time I got to this book I was done with being in Ruth’s headspace, and since this is pretty much how this book is written I had a hard time with it. Lancaster is a talented author it's just I am not a fan of the constant self-monologue. I prefer the story explained things instead of the character explaining.
The saving grace is when the baby is finally born. I loved when the book finally got to that point. I will be honest I skimmed a lot to get there. I just wasn’t in the mood for the sex scenes. Which Lancasters writes wonderfully, but since they told in Ruth’s POV, I was just done with them. I wanted out of her head.
Ruth’s Baby is getting a 2 Boundless Stars from me I skimmed most of it and just read the important relevant bits, like how the baby was made, born and especially the Epilogue which was my favorite parts. There is one more book in this series right now. Not sure if I am going to read it. I feel like I am in a good place and I am done.
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The saving grace is when the baby is finally born. I loved when the book finally got to that point. I will be honest I skimmed a lot to get there. I just wasn’t in the mood for the sex scenes. Which Lancasters writes wonderfully, but since they told in Ruth’s POV, I was just done with them. I wanted out of her head.
Ruth’s Baby is getting a 2 Boundless Stars from me I skimmed most of it and just read the important relevant bits, like how the baby was made, born and especially the Epilogue which was my favorite parts. There is one more book in this series right now. Not sure if I am going to read it. I feel like I am in a good place and I am done.
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January 2, 2022
We finally return to Ruth and Gron and I’m so here for it! Ruth is ready to be a mom, and she believes Gron is not only ready but wondering why it hasn’t happened yet. Ruth decides to call on the green aliens to help her put a Gandry bun in the oven. There are a lot of questions- is she able to conceive?, will the baby live?, what will she give birth to? Questions that require a lot of patience to receive an answer. Unfortunately it’s something Ruth will have to do alone, while keeping her space travels from Gron so he doesn’t freak out.
I enjoyed this novella. I feel like the author soothed the sore spot that was Moira and Kranu. I’m back where I wanted to be with Ruth and Gron. My only negative is that we don’t get chapters from Gron’s pov, which I feel could’ve only added to the story.
3.65 Stars
I enjoyed this novella. I feel like the author soothed the sore spot that was Moira and Kranu. I’m back where I wanted to be with Ruth and Gron. My only negative is that we don’t get chapters from Gron’s pov, which I feel could’ve only added to the story.
3.65 Stars
Read
November 27, 2021DNF at 43% because I got bored and was satiated with the series by the second book.
March 6, 2019
This book made me happy. Ruth feels her "baby-clock" ticking and realizes that she'll probably need help to get pregnant. Her and Gron are different species so it makes sense that they would not be breeding compatible.
The only negative comment I have is that the epilogue (which jumps ahead 3 years) is kind of spoilery. It talks about stuff that will happen in book 5 which I haven't read yet.
The only negative comment I have is that the epilogue (which jumps ahead 3 years) is kind of spoilery. It talks about stuff that will happen in book 5 which I haven't read yet.
September 9, 2018
I enjoyed this book, but I felt a bit let down that we got NOTHING from Gron's point of view. It was a great addition to the first two books, and I feel like with Ruth going missing and then getting pregnant and having the baby, I would have loved to really have heard what was in Gron's head.
I also wasn't a fan of the time jump. Four years later and blowing through Moira's baby as well as mentioning multiple times the two new members of the tribe is cheating readers. Especially if the author goes back to then write the book of those two new members. I wanted to read about K/T and Moria having a kid and what it took for her to get pregnant. I wanted to see more of the two terrors yelling at each other while Troji and Moira look on. I just... I felt cheated in this book.
I also wasn't a fan of the time jump. Four years later and blowing through Moira's baby as well as mentioning multiple times the two new members of the tribe is cheating readers. Especially if the author goes back to then write the book of those two new members. I wanted to read about K/T and Moria having a kid and what it took for her to get pregnant. I wanted to see more of the two terrors yelling at each other while Troji and Moira look on. I just... I felt cheated in this book.
March 20, 2019
1.5 stars
By this point, I was sick of Ruth and Moira but I'm never one to quit a book series. This book didn't make anything better especially since the entire time we are stuck in Ruth's head and we hear nothing from Gron. The 1.5 stars are mainly for Gron and how sweet he is in this book. Also, Moira's willingness to help Ruth made me like her a little more, especially since Ruth seems to be asking a lot of Moira consistently throughout the whole novella. At least the next book deals with a completely different couple. Hopefully, I'll like those characters better
By this point, I was sick of Ruth and Moira but I'm never one to quit a book series. This book didn't make anything better especially since the entire time we are stuck in Ruth's head and we hear nothing from Gron. The 1.5 stars are mainly for Gron and how sweet he is in this book. Also, Moira's willingness to help Ruth made me like her a little more, especially since Ruth seems to be asking a lot of Moira consistently throughout the whole novella. At least the next book deals with a completely different couple. Hopefully, I'll like those characters better
October 26, 2021
[reread 2021] Still cried at the end. Though this did feel shorter and a little less substantial than the others (and why I gave it 3 stars originally), I’m bumping this to four stars anyway.
[2019] I was waiting for the moment they could communicate, and it happened, and I cried.
[2019] I was waiting for the moment they could communicate, and it happened, and I cried.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
July 23, 2023I feel like bawling my eyes out, Omg!
Their kid became bilingual and translates for them, fucking awww in my feels!
Such a cute conclusion to Ruth and Gron's story! Very much a wholesome and spicy alien x human romance!
Their kid became bilingual and translates for them, fucking awww in my feels!
Such a cute conclusion to Ruth and Gron's story! Very much a wholesome and spicy alien x human romance!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2023
Update: Currently reread this series because I just needs a terrific palate cleanser, and this series does that for me every time. ☺️
I Give this Book a 4-4.5/5 Star Rating, Listing as 4.
HEA(?): Yes
Relationship Type: MF
Pacing: Mid-But fast yet the pace is great for me.
Heat: 4/5
Romance: 4.5-5/5
Drama: 3.5/5
Suspense: 3-3.5/5
Dark(?): No
*Due to the Many Various type of Language Barriers I will put them in One of Three Categories.
Language Barrier(?): Yes! And I Love it! 😍
Language Barrier - Temporary, Semi or Permanent(?): Permanent, but also Semi.
*Permanent is where >both main characters/significant others< speak their own languages but cannot understand each other so they have to rely on using either various basic words, sounds or gestures to get a point across, and there is no mechanical solution or it’s unable to be used.
*Semi Permanent is where one or both teach each other their language and can at some point speak near fluent and may or may not have a mechanical solution at some point, but in the end can go without mechanical help but the option is there.
*Temporary is where there IS a mechanical solution to fix the language barriers between significant others permanently. No future issues.
Such a Great Book! I do Miss Gron’s POV, but I understand what Ruth needs it for herself.
Loved the Ending very much in this one, it was a great surprised twist to the Language Barrier that I had hoped might happen.
I hope Mruin gets a book! ☺️
I Give this Book a 4-4.5/5 Star Rating, Listing as 4.
HEA(?): Yes
Relationship Type: MF
Pacing: Mid-But fast yet the pace is great for me.
Heat: 4/5
Romance: 4.5-5/5
Drama: 3.5/5
Suspense: 3-3.5/5
Dark(?): No
*Due to the Many Various type of Language Barriers I will put them in One of Three Categories.
Language Barrier(?): Yes! And I Love it! 😍
Language Barrier - Temporary, Semi or Permanent(?): Permanent, but also Semi.
*Permanent is where >both main characters/significant others< speak their own languages but cannot understand each other so they have to rely on using either various basic words, sounds or gestures to get a point across, and there is no mechanical solution or it’s unable to be used.
*Semi Permanent is where one or both teach each other their language and can at some point speak near fluent and may or may not have a mechanical solution at some point, but in the end can go without mechanical help but the option is there.
*Temporary is where there IS a mechanical solution to fix the language barriers between significant others permanently. No future issues.
Such a Great Book! I do Miss Gron’s POV, but I understand what Ruth needs it for herself.
Loved the Ending very much in this one, it was a great surprised twist to the Language Barrier that I had hoped might happen.
I hope Mruin gets a book! ☺️
December 13, 2020
This story was a huge disappointment after the first three novels were so well crafted. It makes sense that Ruth and Gron have a different number of chromosome pairs. What doesn't make sense is why the aliens T'Lax and his superiorly intelligent gang didn't check that out, especially since they went to all of the trouble of transporting Moire to this planet after Ruth.
I would have much preferred a lengthy novel where Ruth, Moire or both of them started to lose periods of time in their memory. Moire ends up pregnant because these time lapses are from the Greenies secretly kidnapping and tinkering with the patients unbeknownst to the humans. The Gandrys don't really know either, but since communication is limited between them and humans, everyone stays lost in explanation. A huge struggle ensues because not only does Moire not know if Kranu or Troii is the father, but Gryla aggressively pushes the bead wearing issue on Moire because that is the Gandry way and poor Moire is clueless.
Meanwhile, Ruth is trying to keep a happy face for Moire, not wanting to share her disappointment in being unable to conceive. Gron kind of thinks he knows why Ruth is unhappy and keeps trying to help fix the problem the good ol' fashion way. The story could've ended with everyone happily kid-riddled and harmonious once again and then suddenly there appears a third human woman leading around several new Gandry as well.
I would have much preferred a lengthy novel where Ruth, Moire or both of them started to lose periods of time in their memory. Moire ends up pregnant because these time lapses are from the Greenies secretly kidnapping and tinkering with the patients unbeknownst to the humans. The Gandrys don't really know either, but since communication is limited between them and humans, everyone stays lost in explanation. A huge struggle ensues because not only does Moire not know if Kranu or Troii is the father, but Gryla aggressively pushes the bead wearing issue on Moire because that is the Gandry way and poor Moire is clueless.
Meanwhile, Ruth is trying to keep a happy face for Moire, not wanting to share her disappointment in being unable to conceive. Gron kind of thinks he knows why Ruth is unhappy and keeps trying to help fix the problem the good ol' fashion way. The story could've ended with everyone happily kid-riddled and harmonious once again and then suddenly there appears a third human woman leading around several new Gandry as well.
Read
September 2, 2019No rating not because it was a bad book, I just don't care for the subject matter (i.e. I'm not a big baby plot person).
I knew what this book was going in. I figured I wouldn't enjoy it as much as I have the previous books in the series, but I wanted to read it anyway so I'd have the information if I wanted to read the next book.
It was good overall; nothing was really wrong with it. My only complaint is that even though Gandry culture has women as the alphas and the men being submissive toward them, I didn't really appreciate how Gron was being so possessive and displaying the gross "alpha" behavior that is present in some other romance books that end up romanticizing toxic and/or abusive relationships.
That's not to say that Ruth and Gron's relationship was toxic, I just was NOT a fan of how their relationship kind of flipped on what it first was.
At this point, I don't think I'll be reading the next book. I'm thinking it will be somewhat similar to book 3, which was okay but wasn't what I was looking for. I loved book 1 but so far none of the other books in the series have reached that level of enjoyment for me.
I knew what this book was going in. I figured I wouldn't enjoy it as much as I have the previous books in the series, but I wanted to read it anyway so I'd have the information if I wanted to read the next book.
It was good overall; nothing was really wrong with it. My only complaint is that even though Gandry culture has women as the alphas and the men being submissive toward them, I didn't really appreciate how Gron was being so possessive and displaying the gross "alpha" behavior that is present in some other romance books that end up romanticizing toxic and/or abusive relationships.
That's not to say that Ruth and Gron's relationship was toxic, I just was NOT a fan of how their relationship kind of flipped on what it first was.
At this point, I don't think I'll be reading the next book. I'm thinking it will be somewhat similar to book 3, which was okay but wasn't what I was looking for. I loved book 1 but so far none of the other books in the series have reached that level of enjoyment for me.
April 12, 2017
Disappointed
I read in VC Lancaster's blog that she wasn't enthused to write this book. Unfortunately, that sentiment came through loud and clear. I adored the first 2 Ruth and Gron books. The 3rd was only okay for me.
This book was so boring that I found myself skimming through several paragraphs at a time. The story was only in Ruth's POV which made it challenging to understand what Gron was feeling and thinking. There were 2 characters discussed in the epilogue that I've never heard of. Who are Naomi and Iron? Did I miss a story or something in the author's blog that introduced them?
I gave this story 2 stars because I really enjoyed how the author devised a way to overcome the language barrier between Ruth and Gron. I love the Gandry and definitely want to read more about them (even new characters), but I sincerely hope the author only writes more stories when she is inspired and feels a high level of enthusiasm for the material.
I read in VC Lancaster's blog that she wasn't enthused to write this book. Unfortunately, that sentiment came through loud and clear. I adored the first 2 Ruth and Gron books. The 3rd was only okay for me.
This book was so boring that I found myself skimming through several paragraphs at a time. The story was only in Ruth's POV which made it challenging to understand what Gron was feeling and thinking. There were 2 characters discussed in the epilogue that I've never heard of. Who are Naomi and Iron? Did I miss a story or something in the author's blog that introduced them?
I gave this story 2 stars because I really enjoyed how the author devised a way to overcome the language barrier between Ruth and Gron. I love the Gandry and definitely want to read more about them (even new characters), but I sincerely hope the author only writes more stories when she is inspired and feels a high level of enthusiasm for the material.
July 25, 2017
I liked it but
I liked it but I missed hearing things from Gron's point of view. That's what I loved about the first books. Also I would have expected for them to know common frequent words or sounds. For instance Gron obviously knew the word 'no' when Ruth used it. The common head gestures that are automatic like when we say yes we usually nod. Those little things. Other than that it was lovely. I hope we get more like Naomi's book. Its a fun read.
I liked it but I missed hearing things from Gron's point of view. That's what I loved about the first books. Also I would have expected for them to know common frequent words or sounds. For instance Gron obviously knew the word 'no' when Ruth used it. The common head gestures that are automatic like when we say yes we usually nod. Those little things. Other than that it was lovely. I hope we get more like Naomi's book. Its a fun read.
April 18, 2018
Interesting.
Definitely worth a read if you’ve enjoyed the series so far. I liked that there was an epilogue.
*spoiler*
It was weird that another couple was mentioned in the epilogue. I’m guessing there was meant to be or is going to be another book about that couple. I’m just glad there was an epilogue. And extra great that Aric can translate!
Definitely worth a read if you’ve enjoyed the series so far. I liked that there was an epilogue.
*spoiler*
It was weird that another couple was mentioned in the epilogue. I’m guessing there was meant to be or is going to be another book about that couple. I’m just glad there was an epilogue. And extra great that Aric can translate!
June 16, 2017
Where was Gron?!
I missed Gron's point of view and this was missing so much of the previous books depth. I was really looking forward to more of their story, so this was extremely disappointing.
I missed Gron's point of view and this was missing so much of the previous books depth. I was really looking forward to more of their story, so this was extremely disappointing.
April 27, 2020
Yes!!! This was a wonderful way to continue the Ruth and Gron series.
May 17, 2017
3.5
Awwww
Awwww
August 16, 2017
Very cute, a little science and voila, babies :)
September 22, 2017
3.5 stars. Cute story -but I also missed Gron's perspective.
October 29, 2019
So cute.
Loved this little short story where Ruth and Gron get a baby. I really hope we see this kind of thing for the other couples in the tribe.
Loved this little short story where Ruth and Gron get a baby. I really hope we see this kind of thing for the other couples in the tribe.
April 1, 2021
Baby fever
Ruth had previously wondered if the Gandry had a breeding season. And, while not exactly, they did have a rainy season that trapped them on their platforms for weeks at a time. Which did contribute to a following baby boom. Well, the rainy season came and went, and Gron is acting disappointed. Apparently he'd hoped for a little one. It being close to a year now, Ruth is starting to realize that conception may take green intervention. But how exactly is she going to get away, possibly multiple times, to get things moving towards getting a baby Gron?
Spoilers ahead.
This is a short book. We don't get Gron's POV, either. Ruth and Moira's plans to get away were a little silly. Kranu never lets Moira out of his sight, which leaves readers wondering how he pulls his weight in the tribe. The greens are clinical, but you'd think they'd be more excited about possibly increasing Gandry numbers. One thing Ruth and Moira didn't think of- unsuccessful breeding is currently saving other human women from being kidnapped. Allowing the greens to play mad scientist may encourage them to grab more. We can see from Gron's reactions that he goes from sad over no baby, to panicked over her multiple disappearances, to worried she's looking for a new mate, his joy when they get the good news... And through it all they still don't communicate. Moira has hand signals, phrases that even if they don't completely understand they get enough to follow, and even plays games and pranks. Ruth has had an extra 6mos and is just so complacent that it drives me bonkers. The saddest thing I read was one of the last few lines of the book. Three years have passed and her kid translates something for them. Can she not scratch stuff in the dirt? Work out hand signals like Moira? He learned potty in a quick moment. Make up sounds he can imitate, close enough she can remember but growly enough he can learn, too? There's no way I'd be happy waiting years to be able to communicate with someone. And to not be able to understand half of what her child says. The series is fun and serious in turns, an enjoyable escape. My biggest peeve, though, is Ruth not attempting to communicate and just accepting his fear over things instead of establishing some way to tell him. And she missed a huge opportunity to warn Moira about those tiger like things, and that they can understand them and warn the tribe. And Gryla makes some overtures towards Ruth, showing concern and interest, that Ruth ignores or freezes during instead of initiating any kind of thank you response to. I just find her floating along behavior incredibly frustrating. But, as I've read these before, I know I'm going into Naomi's book next and I adore her spirit and her interactions with what she calls the bigfoots and sasquatches.
Ruth had previously wondered if the Gandry had a breeding season. And, while not exactly, they did have a rainy season that trapped them on their platforms for weeks at a time. Which did contribute to a following baby boom. Well, the rainy season came and went, and Gron is acting disappointed. Apparently he'd hoped for a little one. It being close to a year now, Ruth is starting to realize that conception may take green intervention. But how exactly is she going to get away, possibly multiple times, to get things moving towards getting a baby Gron?
Spoilers ahead.
This is a short book. We don't get Gron's POV, either. Ruth and Moira's plans to get away were a little silly. Kranu never lets Moira out of his sight, which leaves readers wondering how he pulls his weight in the tribe. The greens are clinical, but you'd think they'd be more excited about possibly increasing Gandry numbers. One thing Ruth and Moira didn't think of- unsuccessful breeding is currently saving other human women from being kidnapped. Allowing the greens to play mad scientist may encourage them to grab more. We can see from Gron's reactions that he goes from sad over no baby, to panicked over her multiple disappearances, to worried she's looking for a new mate, his joy when they get the good news... And through it all they still don't communicate. Moira has hand signals, phrases that even if they don't completely understand they get enough to follow, and even plays games and pranks. Ruth has had an extra 6mos and is just so complacent that it drives me bonkers. The saddest thing I read was one of the last few lines of the book. Three years have passed and her kid translates something for them. Can she not scratch stuff in the dirt? Work out hand signals like Moira? He learned potty in a quick moment. Make up sounds he can imitate, close enough she can remember but growly enough he can learn, too? There's no way I'd be happy waiting years to be able to communicate with someone. And to not be able to understand half of what her child says. The series is fun and serious in turns, an enjoyable escape. My biggest peeve, though, is Ruth not attempting to communicate and just accepting his fear over things instead of establishing some way to tell him. And she missed a huge opportunity to warn Moira about those tiger like things, and that they can understand them and warn the tribe. And Gryla makes some overtures towards Ruth, showing concern and interest, that Ruth ignores or freezes during instead of initiating any kind of thank you response to. I just find her floating along behavior incredibly frustrating. But, as I've read these before, I know I'm going into Naomi's book next and I adore her spirit and her interactions with what she calls the bigfoots and sasquatches.
May 30, 2025
A Storm Survived, a Baby Arrived
This book is exactly what the title promises – Ruth’s baby is coming into the world, and what a beautiful, emotional ride it is!
Ruth’s Baby didn’t just restore my hope for this series – it cradled it, rocked it gently, and gave it a warm bottle of emotional healing. After the emotional hurricane that was Unbonded, I was honestly ready to tap out. But something told me to keep going… and I’m so glad I did. This book is like the golden sunlight after a storm: soft, warm, and quietly powerful.
There’s definitely some rambling, and sure, not every moment is action-packed – but you know what? That’s what made it so comforting. It’s like sitting with a dear friend who doesn’t always get to the point, but you don’t care because their presence feels like home. The slower pace allowed the tender moments to really shine, and I found myself grinning like a fool at the smallest, sweetest things.
Watching Ruth prepare to bring her baby into the world made my heart swell. The love, the anticipation, the gentle chaos of it all—it was just what my soul needed. I felt wrapped in a warm blanket of love and soft emotions the entire time.
If you’ve made it through book 3 and are feeling unsure about continuing, let me be your sign: Keep going. Push through. Trust me, Ruth’s baby is worth it. This book reminded me why I fell in love with these characters in the first place. It gave me hope, healing, and a big goofy smile that still hasn’t left my face.
So go on—meet Ruth’s baby. Your heart will thank you.
This book is exactly what the title promises – Ruth’s baby is coming into the world, and what a beautiful, emotional ride it is!
Ruth’s Baby didn’t just restore my hope for this series – it cradled it, rocked it gently, and gave it a warm bottle of emotional healing. After the emotional hurricane that was Unbonded, I was honestly ready to tap out. But something told me to keep going… and I’m so glad I did. This book is like the golden sunlight after a storm: soft, warm, and quietly powerful.
There’s definitely some rambling, and sure, not every moment is action-packed – but you know what? That’s what made it so comforting. It’s like sitting with a dear friend who doesn’t always get to the point, but you don’t care because their presence feels like home. The slower pace allowed the tender moments to really shine, and I found myself grinning like a fool at the smallest, sweetest things.
Watching Ruth prepare to bring her baby into the world made my heart swell. The love, the anticipation, the gentle chaos of it all—it was just what my soul needed. I felt wrapped in a warm blanket of love and soft emotions the entire time.
If you’ve made it through book 3 and are feeling unsure about continuing, let me be your sign: Keep going. Push through. Trust me, Ruth’s baby is worth it. This book reminded me why I fell in love with these characters in the first place. It gave me hope, healing, and a big goofy smile that still hasn’t left my face.
So go on—meet Ruth’s baby. Your heart will thank you.
November 4, 2021
Questions
Honestly I liked this novella better than the last book. I was very disappointed that this story was only from Ruth's POV when the other 3 books had Gron's POV as well. I wanted to know what he thought of her disappearing a few times. What was going through his mind during her pregnancy? What was Gryla telling him each time she checked Ruth's progress. What did he think about the greenies showing up and then disappearing? Did he really think the child wasn't his or was that a miscommunication? Did he smell the greenies on Ruth when he scented her?
I am bummed that we were just given new characters in the epilogue with no actual story behind it. Who is Krol.. he was just popped in like we were familiar with him. All in all it was a good series so I am open to reading more from this author.
Edited to add:
After my review I was suggested to read the next book in the series. It was not attached in anyway to the first 4 when I began this series so I didn't know there was another. I am not sure if that would have made me more happy, because reading the novella spoiled everything with an epilogue summary of what happens in book 5. However if I would've read book 5 first, it would have spoiled the novella. I think the author should cut the epilogue from the novella so the story just flows from there to book 5.
Honestly I liked this novella better than the last book. I was very disappointed that this story was only from Ruth's POV when the other 3 books had Gron's POV as well. I wanted to know what he thought of her disappearing a few times. What was going through his mind during her pregnancy? What was Gryla telling him each time she checked Ruth's progress. What did he think about the greenies showing up and then disappearing? Did he really think the child wasn't his or was that a miscommunication? Did he smell the greenies on Ruth when he scented her?
I am bummed that we were just given new characters in the epilogue with no actual story behind it. Who is Krol.. he was just popped in like we were familiar with him. All in all it was a good series so I am open to reading more from this author.
Edited to add:
After my review I was suggested to read the next book in the series. It was not attached in anyway to the first 4 when I began this series so I didn't know there was another. I am not sure if that would have made me more happy, because reading the novella spoiled everything with an epilogue summary of what happens in book 5. However if I would've read book 5 first, it would have spoiled the novella. I think the author should cut the epilogue from the novella so the story just flows from there to book 5.
December 4, 2023
I would have liked this more but there were a few things I couldn't get past.
- After 9 months you still haven't been able to establish simple hand gestures for certain things to make communication easier. Like nodding yes or no. You have names down, so some language *can* be learned. You can point to things and they can understand what you want. But you can't go any further than that? It didn't make sense.
- There is a dangerous beast wandering around and you don't take the time to at least learn to be able to communicate when that is in the area.
- Their lives are very boring. They clean themselves, collect fruit and make baskets. That's it.
I really disliked book three. I'm a one girl and one guy kind of gal. And I was very disappointed that
I thought over all it was cute.
- After 9 months you still haven't been able to establish simple hand gestures for certain things to make communication easier. Like nodding yes or no. You have names down, so some language *can* be learned. You can point to things and they can understand what you want. But you can't go any further than that? It didn't make sense.
- There is a dangerous beast wandering around and you don't take the time to at least learn to be able to communicate when that is in the area.
- Their lives are very boring. They clean themselves, collect fruit and make baskets. That's it.
I really disliked book three. I'm a one girl and one guy kind of gal. And I was very disappointed that
I thought over all it was cute.
May 7, 2025
I liked the story, but...it would be a 4 star if we had Gron's POV.
If you plan on reading the next book I recommend skipping the epilogue. It takes place three years into the future and is spoilery as all hell for the last book in the series.
Ruth felt like she was ready for a baby, but after months of having sex with Gron she didn't conceive. He seemed expectant and disappointed when her bleeding came month after month, the poor guy didn't understand that their differences meant that they were different species and wouldn't be able to have babies naturally. Ruth understood that so she asked the little green aliens for help. She had to visit them a few times and hide her disappearances from Gron. She didn't do a great job with that and he seemed to think that she was looking for another male ;) I would have slapped him if I were in her place when he learned about the pregnancy and asked if it was his.
If you plan on reading the next book I recommend skipping the epilogue. It takes place three years into the future and is spoilery as all hell for the last book in the series.
Ruth felt like she was ready for a baby, but after months of having sex with Gron she didn't conceive. He seemed expectant and disappointed when her bleeding came month after month, the poor guy didn't understand that their differences meant that they were different species and wouldn't be able to have babies naturally. Ruth understood that so she asked the little green aliens for help. She had to visit them a few times and hide her disappearances from Gron. She didn't do a great job with that and he seemed to think that she was looking for another male ;) I would have slapped him if I were in her place when he learned about the pregnancy and asked if it was his.
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