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Wakanreo #1
Alien Bonds
Set in the far future on Wakanreo, a planet where the dominant species mates for life, ALIEN BONDS explores the effect that biology can have on culture, but uses a love story to do that. The female main character is a human woman who comes to the world for her career but stays because she finds herself bound to the planet in a way she never anticipated. The male main character is a Wakanrean, a well known singer who had thought he would never find a mate.
389 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 23, 2018
78 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Carmen Webster Buxton
18 books31 followersI live in Maryland with my husband and a sweet-natured beagle named Cosmo, who gets me out of the house every day.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
March 17, 2021
I really loved this book!
Even if the writing is really easy and simple, but, maybe, just because of that! :)
I thought at first that it willbe the usual insta-mates romance, but it was so much more than that!
The worldbuilding was sooo interesting and the Wakaanreo culture was really interesting!
I liked that the hero, Kuaron and the heroine, Dina, seemed to me like real people. Their interaction under the circumstances were true and, after the lust-satisfying part, was a slow building love.
I liked that they didn't fall in love immediately, but that first come the trust and understanding!
There was also a really lovely friendship here. I admit that I cried when the friend had to leave... it was really heartbreaking.
I'm curious about the other books by this author!
Even if the writing is really easy and simple, but, maybe, just because of that! :)
I thought at first that it willbe the usual insta-mates romance, but it was so much more than that!
The worldbuilding was sooo interesting and the Wakaanreo culture was really interesting!
I liked that the hero, Kuaron and the heroine, Dina, seemed to me like real people. Their interaction under the circumstances were true and, after the lust-satisfying part, was a slow building love.
I liked that they didn't fall in love immediately, but that first come the trust and understanding!
There was also a really lovely friendship here. I admit that I cried when the friend had to leave... it was really heartbreaking.
“So what does this ritual actually mean?” she asked Kuaron as she put down her fork. “Is it any kind of legal relationship or is it just a formality?”
“It’s neither.” Kuaron poured another cup of quascha. “It has no legal standing, but it’s much more than a formality. Glynunshai owe each other loyalty and friendship. If Jared were to send me word that he needed help on Xuxan, I would go there at once.”
Jared lifted his eyebrows. “If you send me the same kind of message, furball, you’ll have to explain glynunshah to ThreeCon.”
“I see,” Dina said. “And how long does this relationship last?”
“Until one of us dies.”
“I might never make it back to Wakanreo before that happens,” Jared said.
“That makes no difference. Glynunshah is a promise that’s not affected by time or distance.”
I'm curious about the other books by this author!
December 9, 2019
If you are a fan of Star Wars, Star Trek and SciFi, this may be a series for you. We have all you need…out of this world romance, intrigue, race discrimination, and characters that grow and develop as the story is told. Each book spotlights a different couple and could stand alone, but if you are new to the series, I highly recommend starting at the beginning.
I accidentally read the books out of order, grabbing the second book in the series, Alien Vows, and reading that first. It did make reading Alien Bonds easier, because I got used to the unique names and words, though there is a glossary at the end of the book. I invented my own pronunciations making the flow smoother for me. I do that a lot when there are tough names and words to mentally pronounce.
We are on the planet Wakanrea. Space travel is common, yet the species tend to stick to their own kind.
In Alien Bonds, we meet Dina Bellaire, a Terran, human, and Kuaron Du, a Wakanrean. Their meeting change their worlds forever. They meet from across a crowded room and they are floored by shahgunrah, a biological event that is like imprinting for werewolves . Their love is slow to develop, but their mating is instantaneous, creating problems that could be deadly…for her.
Some of the events make me think of the Twilight series, but I will leave that for you SciFi lovers to find out for yourselves. The surprise is worth the wait.
Carmen Webster Buxton has created a world that I got lost in by her ability to bring it to life through her descriptive words and the characters quickly became dear to me. There are hidden agendas, corporate greed, race hatred, romance, acceptance, and more.
Carmen Webster Buxton fills us in on the Wakanrean history and you could call the Alien Bonds historical fiction of the scifi kind. LOL
Jared, a Terran, human, is a character I met early in the story. He is Kuaron’s friend and their lively banter brings me lots of smiles. I wonder…will he get his own story? I would love to see it.
I want to thank you, Carmen, for giving me an opportunity to travel to a distant planet, meet some wonderful characters, and learn some life lessons along the way.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Alien Bonds by Carmen Webster Buxton.
See more at fundinmental
I accidentally read the books out of order, grabbing the second book in the series, Alien Vows, and reading that first. It did make reading Alien Bonds easier, because I got used to the unique names and words, though there is a glossary at the end of the book. I invented my own pronunciations making the flow smoother for me. I do that a lot when there are tough names and words to mentally pronounce.
We are on the planet Wakanrea. Space travel is common, yet the species tend to stick to their own kind.
In Alien Bonds, we meet Dina Bellaire, a Terran, human, and Kuaron Du, a Wakanrean. Their meeting change their worlds forever. They meet from across a crowded room and they are floored by shahgunrah, a biological event that is like imprinting for werewolves . Their love is slow to develop, but their mating is instantaneous, creating problems that could be deadly…for her.
Some of the events make me think of the Twilight series, but I will leave that for you SciFi lovers to find out for yourselves. The surprise is worth the wait.
Carmen Webster Buxton has created a world that I got lost in by her ability to bring it to life through her descriptive words and the characters quickly became dear to me. There are hidden agendas, corporate greed, race hatred, romance, acceptance, and more.
Carmen Webster Buxton fills us in on the Wakanrean history and you could call the Alien Bonds historical fiction of the scifi kind. LOL
Jared, a Terran, human, is a character I met early in the story. He is Kuaron’s friend and their lively banter brings me lots of smiles. I wonder…will he get his own story? I would love to see it.
I want to thank you, Carmen, for giving me an opportunity to travel to a distant planet, meet some wonderful characters, and learn some life lessons along the way.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Alien Bonds by Carmen Webster Buxton.
See more at fundinmental
February 8, 2018
This was a decent KU read. Dina is a chemist that recently took a job on the planet Wakanreo. The furry Wakanreans respond instantly when they find their mates. Unfortunately humans have set the mating off in Wakanreans but don't feet the same way. This is devastating to the affected Wakanreans since they only mate once. When the human can't reciprocate and leaves the planet the Wakanreans spend the rest of their lives lonely and pining for a mate that doesn't want them. To protect Wakanreans all humans must wear gloves and avoid physical contact. At a party Wakanrean singer Kuaron Du instantly recognizes Dina as his mate and the impossible occurs. She's responds to him as well. The rest of the story is about their fight to stay together and be recognized by a society that doesn't approve or believe they're bonded.
I found the characters and their situation interesting but I almost DNF the book. I recognize that the author must have spend a huge amount of time world building and creating the Wakanrean language. However I don't read to learn fictional languages. There was just too much of it. Every few pages a new word was introduced with a definition. Some of the words were only mentioned a few times in the book and could have been omitted. IMO the flow of the story suffered. I can't count the times the characters would have to ask "what does that mean". It was just too much. I would have given this book a sold 4 *** but I dropped it back to 3.5 because of the excessive use of the fictional language.
I found the characters and their situation interesting but I almost DNF the book. I recognize that the author must have spend a huge amount of time world building and creating the Wakanrean language. However I don't read to learn fictional languages. There was just too much of it. Every few pages a new word was introduced with a definition. Some of the words were only mentioned a few times in the book and could have been omitted. IMO the flow of the story suffered. I can't count the times the characters would have to ask "what does that mean". It was just too much. I would have given this book a sold 4 *** but I dropped it back to 3.5 because of the excessive use of the fictional language.
December 12, 2020
This is an intriguing take on the "fated mates" trope, where the protagonists are constrained by nature. However, this is a very closed society, so finding your mate is from another species creates serious problems.
Although I found the writing fairly flat, the concepts and challenges presented were uniquely managed. They didn't win every challenge, and the asshats were more successful than usual in a romance. The clever lawyer and the grumpy father were well developed.
I never really felt the emotional depth of the characters - they said it a lot, but I didn't quite feel it. One of the main secondary characters had the best emotional interactions.
So 3-stars for the writing, plus one for an excellent execution of this plot. I haven't decided whether to read the next one.
PS: This is an R-rated romance, with several fade-to-black followed by woke-up-sore references. Nothing detailed, and that was fine for this story.
Although I found the writing fairly flat, the concepts and challenges presented were uniquely managed. They didn't win every challenge, and the asshats were more successful than usual in a romance. The clever lawyer and the grumpy father were well developed.
I never really felt the emotional depth of the characters - they said it a lot, but I didn't quite feel it. One of the main secondary characters had the best emotional interactions.
So 3-stars for the writing, plus one for an excellent execution of this plot. I haven't decided whether to read the next one.
PS: This is an R-rated romance, with several fade-to-black followed by woke-up-sore references. Nothing detailed, and that was fine for this story.
December 12, 2020
I really enjoyed this story. It grabbed me from the beginning and I read it pretty fast compared to my usual speed. Typos were few if any. Days later I'm still thinking about the story. It was a length that I like in a book. The story was imaginative and definitely otherworldly. The romance was great without it being a sex fest. The detailed descriptions of the world were well done and it was easy to picture it in my minds eye. There was plenty of conflict and angst but none of that "I don't deserve you" kind of crap. The heroine was smart and not TSTL. The story had a very satisfying ending. I didn't care for the cover art and wish that it had been more sophisticated. I almost didn't purchase this book because of it.
The story is based on speciesism. Having read it in 2020 it was timely for me because of the Black Lives Matter movement. I have a lot of friends who are into science fiction and they are open minded and liberal. It's too bad that not everyone would enjoy this book and learn from it.
I'm going to get the other books in this series.
The story is based on speciesism. Having read it in 2020 it was timely for me because of the Black Lives Matter movement. I have a lot of friends who are into science fiction and they are open minded and liberal. It's too bad that not everyone would enjoy this book and learn from it.
I'm going to get the other books in this series.
December 16, 2024
Industrial chemist Dina Bellaire has only just recently moved to the planet Wankanreo for her new job, and is still trying settle in when she attends a party and finds her entire life changed in one moment. Kuaron Du, a famous Wakanrean singer, is initially angry when he meets her, thinking that her presence has initiated glashunrah, a false, one-sided "fated mate"-ish bond that is the reason why Wankanreans are wary of humans and have instituted a "no touching" rule for all humans on the planet. When he realizes that their bond is real, shahgunrah rather than glashunrah, he leaves the party with Dina and the two of them go back to his place, where they proceed to have lots of (off-page) sex.
By the time Dina is able to think again, she confused and bewildered, although still drawn to Kuaron. She refuses to believe that they're actually bonded the way Kuaron says they are, and is determined to go to work. Unfortunately, that's not really possible this early during the formation of their bond. Wakanrean culture and laws have procedures in place that allow newly bonded couples to take as much time off as necessary, but the fact that Dina is human complicates things. Another issue is that Kuaron's father is Wakanreo's planetary administrator.
Normally a sci-fi romance book with this setup would be one big excuse for multiple explicit on-page sex scenes. In this case, all the sex is off-page, and the focus is entirely on the cultural aspects and impact, and Dina's efforts to find a place for herself on Wakanreo.
Although I'd call this sci-fi romance, it'd probably be best to go into this more as science fiction than as romance. I don't say that because of the off-page sex scenes, but rather because there was something weirdly unromantic (or emotionally distant?) about Dina and Kuaron's relationship. It wasn't that they were a bad fit for each other - right from the start, they worked hard to respect and understand each other. They just didn't have a whole lot of nice, emotional, romantic moments. Most of the ones I can think of were fairly low-key - Kuaron setting up a birthday party for Dina despite the fact that Wakanreans don't really celebrate birthdays, the one song that Kuaron sang, Kuaron's reaction whenever Dina was feeling unwell, etc.
Especially during the first half, this book was heavy on dialogue focused on defining Wakanrean words. I wish that had been worked in more smoothly. I much preferred it when Dina and Kuaron were finally going places and doing things. As Dina interacted more with Wakanreans, she got to learn more about the effects that shahgunrah had on individuals - not everyone was happy with who they ended up with, and there could be a lot of tension. There were some things that were touched on, but not fully addressed (at least here - but maybe in the next book?), such as the potential impact of research into the specifics of how shahgunrah works. On the one hand, it could have far-reaching and possibly negative effects on Wakanrean society and how it works. On the other hand, it could be a lifeline to Wakanreans who are bonded to individuals they can't stand.
All in all, this was an interesting take on the "fated mates" trope, even if the emotional aspects of Dina and Kuaron's relationship weren't as strong as I'd have liked. For some reason, Kuaron had better emotional (not romantic, but emotional) moments with Jared, one of the book's few other humans, than with Dina. Possibly because they'd been friends for so long before the book began?
Extras:
Includes a glossary of Wakanrean words.
(Original review posted on A Library Girl's Familiar Diversions.)
By the time Dina is able to think again, she confused and bewildered, although still drawn to Kuaron. She refuses to believe that they're actually bonded the way Kuaron says they are, and is determined to go to work. Unfortunately, that's not really possible this early during the formation of their bond. Wakanrean culture and laws have procedures in place that allow newly bonded couples to take as much time off as necessary, but the fact that Dina is human complicates things. Another issue is that Kuaron's father is Wakanreo's planetary administrator.
Normally a sci-fi romance book with this setup would be one big excuse for multiple explicit on-page sex scenes. In this case, all the sex is off-page, and the focus is entirely on the cultural aspects and impact, and Dina's efforts to find a place for herself on Wakanreo.
Although I'd call this sci-fi romance, it'd probably be best to go into this more as science fiction than as romance. I don't say that because of the off-page sex scenes, but rather because there was something weirdly unromantic (or emotionally distant?) about Dina and Kuaron's relationship. It wasn't that they were a bad fit for each other - right from the start, they worked hard to respect and understand each other. They just didn't have a whole lot of nice, emotional, romantic moments. Most of the ones I can think of were fairly low-key - Kuaron setting up a birthday party for Dina despite the fact that Wakanreans don't really celebrate birthdays, the one song that Kuaron sang, Kuaron's reaction whenever Dina was feeling unwell, etc.
Especially during the first half, this book was heavy on dialogue focused on defining Wakanrean words. I wish that had been worked in more smoothly. I much preferred it when Dina and Kuaron were finally going places and doing things. As Dina interacted more with Wakanreans, she got to learn more about the effects that shahgunrah had on individuals - not everyone was happy with who they ended up with, and there could be a lot of tension. There were some things that were touched on, but not fully addressed (at least here - but maybe in the next book?), such as the potential impact of research into the specifics of how shahgunrah works. On the one hand, it could have far-reaching and possibly negative effects on Wakanrean society and how it works. On the other hand, it could be a lifeline to Wakanreans who are bonded to individuals they can't stand.
All in all, this was an interesting take on the "fated mates" trope, even if the emotional aspects of Dina and Kuaron's relationship weren't as strong as I'd have liked. For some reason, Kuaron had better emotional (not romantic, but emotional) moments with Jared, one of the book's few other humans, than with Dina. Possibly because they'd been friends for so long before the book began?
Extras:
Includes a glossary of Wakanrean words.
(Original review posted on A Library Girl's Familiar Diversions.)
December 10, 2020
Disaster or fortunate chaos?
Dina is newly arrived on Wakanreo but already things are heating up. Invited to an alien opera, an invitation to another event that manners say she has to decline. Even if it looks more promising than the opera blind date. But, while the date turned out to be a boor, when she goes to leave, that's when the action starts. An angry Wakanrean is bearing down on her, until he does something explicitly forbidden...he touched her. While both humans and Wakanreans are tactile, they can't be with each other. Wakanreans have a pheromone driven mate instinct that is exacerbated by touch. He scented her and then broke the law to see if it was real. Because too many have suffered false, broken, one sided, pseudo matings caused by human scents. But at his touch she feels the echo of his emotions. The panic doesn't set in til the next day.
Spoilers ahead.
This was a complex introduction book. Humans, due to intergalactic expansion, have different customs that have to be explained. Also, various alien species, their descriptions, cultures, history in ThreeCon, and its inception. Add to that the languages, most speak standard but a lot of Wakanrean words are sprinkled throughout. Context reveals enough that you don't have to look up every word. I enjoyed the focus being on the new bonds, emotional ties, sensations, as well as adaptation to this new world. This isn't a Mars Needs Women, or abduction sci-fi. This is a balanced world that's both welcoming to new and full of purists. Each has valid points in their logic. I wonder why the Wakanreans hadn't pushed for pheromone masking colognes decades ago? Humans have had the opposite for a long time. Eh, I'm not sure exactly when humans started leaving this Earth, how many centuries ago that was, or much else, as the main focus is Wakanreo. I enjoyed the political ideals, their efforts to protect their citizens, how not everything was insta happy, and that neither side caved to the other. There were compromises and teaching moments. The biology, culturally accepted norms, clashing beliefs, family concepts, were fascinating. I was curious about the pheromone issue. In most species that rely on them, they're usually aggressive to close relatives unless in estrus and lack access to other potential mates. Having such an intense sense of smell, Wakanreans should have similar "off switches" considering their very similar biology. I guess "alien" is the explanation here. Other than 2 other issues I don't have any real complaints at this new world created. And those are just tiny issues:
*She had to resort to an artificial womb due to rapid growth. That would have disrupted her hormones for lactation. No mention of hormone therapy to correct that but she's immediately nursing them? And after a night where she had a few drinks?
*They have to present at court after the birth but no mention of who was babysitting. The fancy beds can rock and move around but I don't think it mentioned feeding or changing diapers.
And that's it. Those are the only things that made me back up and scratch my head. This was more complex and involved than the usual KU sci-fi romance, but in the best ways. The author did an amazing job of creating an entire new system, inhabitants of it, and fleshing them all out. And included a dictionary for all the words thrown at you lol.
Dina is newly arrived on Wakanreo but already things are heating up. Invited to an alien opera, an invitation to another event that manners say she has to decline. Even if it looks more promising than the opera blind date. But, while the date turned out to be a boor, when she goes to leave, that's when the action starts. An angry Wakanrean is bearing down on her, until he does something explicitly forbidden...he touched her. While both humans and Wakanreans are tactile, they can't be with each other. Wakanreans have a pheromone driven mate instinct that is exacerbated by touch. He scented her and then broke the law to see if it was real. Because too many have suffered false, broken, one sided, pseudo matings caused by human scents. But at his touch she feels the echo of his emotions. The panic doesn't set in til the next day.
Spoilers ahead.
This was a complex introduction book. Humans, due to intergalactic expansion, have different customs that have to be explained. Also, various alien species, their descriptions, cultures, history in ThreeCon, and its inception. Add to that the languages, most speak standard but a lot of Wakanrean words are sprinkled throughout. Context reveals enough that you don't have to look up every word. I enjoyed the focus being on the new bonds, emotional ties, sensations, as well as adaptation to this new world. This isn't a Mars Needs Women, or abduction sci-fi. This is a balanced world that's both welcoming to new and full of purists. Each has valid points in their logic. I wonder why the Wakanreans hadn't pushed for pheromone masking colognes decades ago? Humans have had the opposite for a long time. Eh, I'm not sure exactly when humans started leaving this Earth, how many centuries ago that was, or much else, as the main focus is Wakanreo. I enjoyed the political ideals, their efforts to protect their citizens, how not everything was insta happy, and that neither side caved to the other. There were compromises and teaching moments. The biology, culturally accepted norms, clashing beliefs, family concepts, were fascinating. I was curious about the pheromone issue. In most species that rely on them, they're usually aggressive to close relatives unless in estrus and lack access to other potential mates. Having such an intense sense of smell, Wakanreans should have similar "off switches" considering their very similar biology. I guess "alien" is the explanation here. Other than 2 other issues I don't have any real complaints at this new world created. And those are just tiny issues:
*She had to resort to an artificial womb due to rapid growth. That would have disrupted her hormones for lactation. No mention of hormone therapy to correct that but she's immediately nursing them? And after a night where she had a few drinks?
*They have to present at court after the birth but no mention of who was babysitting. The fancy beds can rock and move around but I don't think it mentioned feeding or changing diapers.
And that's it. Those are the only things that made me back up and scratch my head. This was more complex and involved than the usual KU sci-fi romance, but in the best ways. The author did an amazing job of creating an entire new system, inhabitants of it, and fleshing them all out. And included a dictionary for all the words thrown at you lol.
August 21, 2018
This is a great book! I really enjoyed it! Great writing, characters, storyline, and dialog! I highly recommend checking it out! I can't wait for book 2!
dont-want-to-read
December 12, 2021The dedication in the front throws me off and makes me uninterested in going on.
February 25, 2019
Goodreads 3.4; Amazon 3.9: well-written; likable characters; interesting world; just not Wow.
I think it's mainly my personal preferences that kept this from being a "full" 4-star rating: I never favor relationships that start with literally irresistible biological urges. (Call it sympathetic emotional claustrophobia.) I realize that the blurb and sample made the premise very clear, but the writing made it seem worthwhile, and the well-thought-out implications in the world-building and interpersonal developments did indeed make it worth the read.
This isn't a high-action plot. There are a few dramatic confrontations of the physical sort, but it's more about cultural contact and adaptation (which IS one of my preferred themes), and emotional decisions. There was one complication I saw coming , but it's handled as among reasonable, honorable, and caring people. If you graphed the plot progression, it wouldn't have huge, steep peaks and valleys, and the ending and epilogue leave us at a point of hope.
I caught a handful of minor errors (more in the useful end-of-the-book glossary than anywhere else), but nothing major (nor any related to ignorance of proper grammar).
I read this in Kindle Unlimited, and I haven't decided yet whether I'll buy it to keep (and reread). Maybe I'll see what I think of Book 2, Alien Vows, first; the story jumps forward to the next generation, and it sounds at least as intriguing.
I think it's mainly my personal preferences that kept this from being a "full" 4-star rating: I never favor relationships that start with literally irresistible biological urges. (Call it sympathetic emotional claustrophobia.) I realize that the blurb and sample made the premise very clear, but the writing made it seem worthwhile, and the well-thought-out implications in the world-building and interpersonal developments did indeed make it worth the read.
This isn't a high-action plot. There are a few dramatic confrontations of the physical sort, but it's more about cultural contact and adaptation (which IS one of my preferred themes), and emotional decisions. There was one complication I saw coming , but it's handled as among reasonable, honorable, and caring people. If you graphed the plot progression, it wouldn't have huge, steep peaks and valleys, and the ending and epilogue leave us at a point of hope.
I caught a handful of minor errors (more in the useful end-of-the-book glossary than anywhere else), but nothing major (nor any related to ignorance of proper grammar).
I read this in Kindle Unlimited, and I haven't decided yet whether I'll buy it to keep (and reread). Maybe I'll see what I think of Book 2, Alien Vows, first; the story jumps forward to the next generation, and it sounds at least as intriguing.
March 6, 2021
Amazing book to read I couldn't put it down. Loved it. Highly recommend it. Five star book.
March 22, 2021
This was an awkward read full of painfully wooden dialogue, almost no worldbuilding or plot, and the main characters were not particlarly well developed or charismatic enough to pick up the slack.
Because of their soulbond they both felt each others broad emotions, but they never communicated their wants and desires, nor made any attempt to actually understand each other as people. Due to this empathy there were no major misunderstandings or tension between them, which was good, but because there was nothing else really driving the story there was no sense of growth, progress, or change either.
The characters spent most of their time in Kuaron's house for no apparent reason. Sometimes Kuaron went off to perform, and sometimes Dina (or rather the author) remembered she had a job to go to in a half-hearted attempt to persuade me the characters had lives and interests outside of one another, but it all felt stale, pointless and repetitive.
This could have been alleviated and been so much more interesting if Dina and Kuaron had ever been shown having difficulties communicating because of a language barrier (there are a lot of made up and unnecessary "alien" words), or their wildly different upbringing, customs, and traditions causing issues until they could work out a compromise. Not arguments or pointless dramatic misunderstandings, just legitimate moments where a vague emotion wasn't enough to go on.
It would have also been great seeing Dina explore this new (to her and us) world and learning to appreciate the food, art, and other cultural touchstones through lived experience with Kuaron's extended family as her guides. I would have loved a later chapter where Jared had taken her to the wrestling instead of just mentioning it .
Or to have Kuaron coming to appreciate the unusual but refreshingly unique qualities of his new human soulmate, and his introspection of what it meant to be forever bonded to an alien bringing new depth and appeal to his performances and critical acclaim.
If I'd been shown any of that, or even some of it, then the situations where someone shows open hostility to Dina and her relationship to Kuaron would have been more shocking and impactful instead of somehow oddly self-pitying (how DARE those people she's never tried to find any common ground with resent and distrust her! Poor, poor Dina!)
Maybe then I wouldn't have resented spending money on a story where any consequences and wider reaching implications of events were quickly brushed aside seemingly in favour of more monotonous hum-drum.
Because of their soulbond they both felt each others broad emotions, but they never communicated their wants and desires, nor made any attempt to actually understand each other as people. Due to this empathy there were no major misunderstandings or tension between them, which was good, but because there was nothing else really driving the story there was no sense of growth, progress, or change either.
The characters spent most of their time in Kuaron's house for no apparent reason. Sometimes Kuaron went off to perform, and sometimes Dina (or rather the author) remembered she had a job to go to in a half-hearted attempt to persuade me the characters had lives and interests outside of one another, but it all felt stale, pointless and repetitive.
This could have been alleviated and been so much more interesting if Dina and Kuaron had ever been shown having difficulties communicating because of a language barrier (there are a lot of made up and unnecessary "alien" words), or their wildly different upbringing, customs, and traditions causing issues until they could work out a compromise. Not arguments or pointless dramatic misunderstandings, just legitimate moments where a vague emotion wasn't enough to go on.
It would have also been great seeing Dina explore this new (to her and us) world and learning to appreciate the food, art, and other cultural touchstones through lived experience with Kuaron's extended family as her guides. I would have loved a later chapter where Jared had taken her to the wrestling instead of just mentioning it .
Or to have Kuaron coming to appreciate the unusual but refreshingly unique qualities of his new human soulmate, and his introspection of what it meant to be forever bonded to an alien bringing new depth and appeal to his performances and critical acclaim.
If I'd been shown any of that, or even some of it, then the situations where someone shows open hostility to Dina and her relationship to Kuaron would have been more shocking and impactful instead of somehow oddly self-pitying (how DARE those people she's never tried to find any common ground with resent and distrust her! Poor, poor Dina!)
Maybe then I wouldn't have resented spending money on a story where any consequences and wider reaching implications of events were quickly brushed aside seemingly in favour of more monotonous hum-drum.
June 1, 2020
Wonderful World-building
I have absolutely fallen in love with Wakanreo. Since I didn’t manage to make it into Hogwarts, I suppose I will have to see about immigration fees.
In all seriousness, this is a lovely combination of sf and romance. As a lover of language, I was particularly entranced by the idioms Buxton creates and the culture at which they hint.
I have absolutely fallen in love with Wakanreo. Since I didn’t manage to make it into Hogwarts, I suppose I will have to see about immigration fees.
In all seriousness, this is a lovely combination of sf and romance. As a lover of language, I was particularly entranced by the idioms Buxton creates and the culture at which they hint.
September 1, 2018
Fascinating sci-fi romance!
This was a unique and very well thought out romance, unlike any other I’ve read before. The world that the author created is intricate and entertaining. The heroine is a human who came to look be and work as a chemist on the Planet Wakanreo. The hero is a famous singer who is a Wakanrean celebrity. When she attends a party out of obligation, they meet and experience shahgunrai, the Wakanreo mating phenomenon. This is both surprising and upsetting to some of the population. I was glued to the story, found it to be a fascinating one. Can’t wait to read more by this author.
This was a unique and very well thought out romance, unlike any other I’ve read before. The world that the author created is intricate and entertaining. The heroine is a human who came to look be and work as a chemist on the Planet Wakanreo. The hero is a famous singer who is a Wakanrean celebrity. When she attends a party out of obligation, they meet and experience shahgunrai, the Wakanreo mating phenomenon. This is both surprising and upsetting to some of the population. I was glued to the story, found it to be a fascinating one. Can’t wait to read more by this author.
December 8, 2020
Mine
An interesting concept of the future! Showing customs and superstitions that each species hold! When a human woman and an alien meet, becomes one’s mate, fall in love, and have a baby. All hell breaks lose! The alien people resent her, threatening her, and her friends betrayal hurt! Everyone blames her, only she truly fell into her mates thrall. What will happen, as everyone works to death their bond. Molts of surprises, secrets, suspense, betrayal, and danger surrounds them and their babies! The characters are awesome, the plot is entertaining, and lots of surprises are in store
An interesting concept of the future! Showing customs and superstitions that each species hold! When a human woman and an alien meet, becomes one’s mate, fall in love, and have a baby. All hell breaks lose! The alien people resent her, threatening her, and her friends betrayal hurt! Everyone blames her, only she truly fell into her mates thrall. What will happen, as everyone works to death their bond. Molts of surprises, secrets, suspense, betrayal, and danger surrounds them and their babies! The characters are awesome, the plot is entertaining, and lots of surprises are in store
August 7, 2019
A fascinating look at an alien culture who mate because of a connection that is biological in nature. There is no marriage as we know it because if one doesn't feel the "shahgunrah" then one doesn't date or mate.
What happens when a Terran and a Wakanrean meet and experience shahgunrah? This novel gives you a bird's eye view of that relationship and how it is a nexus for change in both the couple and the people around them.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book as it showed how Dina (Terran) and Kuaron (Wakanrean) learned to deal with their new found relationship.
What happens when a Terran and a Wakanrean meet and experience shahgunrah? This novel gives you a bird's eye view of that relationship and how it is a nexus for change in both the couple and the people around them.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book as it showed how Dina (Terran) and Kuaron (Wakanrean) learned to deal with their new found relationship.
August 31, 2018
You should probably definitely read this book.
Look, this isn’t a two star book except that I didn’t like it. I don’t enjoy third person omniscient as a POV, so I didn’t like this book. HOWEVER, that being said, I read the entire book because even though I didn’t like it, I wanted to finish it and see how the story unfolded. It is a thought-provoking book and worth a read, but I only recommend it to people who A) love sci-fi, B) find third person omniscient tolerable or enjoyable, and C) have time for a book that will keep you thinking.
Look, this isn’t a two star book except that I didn’t like it. I don’t enjoy third person omniscient as a POV, so I didn’t like this book. HOWEVER, that being said, I read the entire book because even though I didn’t like it, I wanted to finish it and see how the story unfolded. It is a thought-provoking book and worth a read, but I only recommend it to people who A) love sci-fi, B) find third person omniscient tolerable or enjoyable, and C) have time for a book that will keep you thinking.
January 28, 2018
Step by step journey
Dina becomes a part of this other culture step by step and changes along the way. Everything about what she goes through is exactly as I'd imagine with difficulties and new experiences. I couldn't stop reading. I enjoyed these characters so much. There were times you wished you could shake some sense into them and other times wished to hug them. There is a quite a few conversations explaining things but once past those it really is a 5 star book.
Dina becomes a part of this other culture step by step and changes along the way. Everything about what she goes through is exactly as I'd imagine with difficulties and new experiences. I couldn't stop reading. I enjoyed these characters so much. There were times you wished you could shake some sense into them and other times wished to hug them. There is a quite a few conversations explaining things but once past those it really is a 5 star book.
December 11, 2018
I looked over the reviews before I read this book. I do enjoy substantial sci-fi world creation in my books, so the comments had me excited. While there was an abundance of unique details about the society, culture, and political systems of the aliens, the external physicality was described vaguely. It was easy to forget that they WERE physically alien, which is why this book is four stars for me.
Note: the sensual content in this book was "sweet," not exactly explicit.
Note: the sensual content in this book was "sweet," not exactly explicit.
January 27, 2020
Love or destiny
Can a half man and an alien defy prejudice and make it as a couple? When pheromones cause a mating that many view as false, the unlikely couple are faced with prejudice and hatred while growing to love each other, making their bond more than physical. The use of frequent “alien” words at times can make this read a bit confusing, but the story is good with an HEA worth the time it takes to get there.
Can a half man and an alien defy prejudice and make it as a couple? When pheromones cause a mating that many view as false, the unlikely couple are faced with prejudice and hatred while growing to love each other, making their bond more than physical. The use of frequent “alien” words at times can make this read a bit confusing, but the story is good with an HEA worth the time it takes to get there.
February 20, 2020
Loved it ❤️
Great read , you’ve got sci-fi , romance and even racism towards other alien races . After reading the blurb for this book I had to get it and it didn’t disappoint, Kuaron and Dina’s story was fascinating. This Author really knows how to draw you into her story and keep you there , I couldn’t stop reading it was so good !! I can’t wait to read book 2 , I’m crossing my fingers we get to see Jared again
Great read , you’ve got sci-fi , romance and even racism towards other alien races . After reading the blurb for this book I had to get it and it didn’t disappoint, Kuaron and Dina’s story was fascinating. This Author really knows how to draw you into her story and keep you there , I couldn’t stop reading it was so good !! I can’t wait to read book 2 , I’m crossing my fingers we get to see Jared again
November 30, 2020
Best book I've read all year!
I am very impressed with this story, not only because is very original (at least to me being fairly new to this genre) and because the love story is so intercepted by evolution, politics and the cultural differences of two humanoid and Alien species. A must read.
I am very impressed with this story, not only because is very original (at least to me being fairly new to this genre) and because the love story is so intercepted by evolution, politics and the cultural differences of two humanoid and Alien species. A must read.
December 12, 2020
Spectacular!
What happens socially in an alien world when the native alien mates with a human? The answer can be found in Alien Bonds, so ably written by Carmen Webster Buxton. She created a spectacular world, society, humanoids and even a new language. She is a consummate science fiction writer! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story.
What happens socially in an alien world when the native alien mates with a human? The answer can be found in Alien Bonds, so ably written by Carmen Webster Buxton. She created a spectacular world, society, humanoids and even a new language. She is a consummate science fiction writer! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story.
February 14, 2021
A tale about 2 lovers from very different cultures facing prejudice and hatred in finding their happy ever after. SciFi is not really my favorite genre but I found this story had a great plot with very intriguing characters and kept me turning those pages.
May 28, 2018
Well done 🙂
Love story about two being from to different cultures. Mild politics and bigotry. This book written with some world building and good character development.
Love story about two being from to different cultures. Mild politics and bigotry. This book written with some world building and good character development.
May 9, 2025
Alien Bonds was an absolute surprise and a welcome relief in the sci-fi romance genre.
As an avid reader, I can sometimes find myself bored or feeling like I've read similar stories before. But this one? It kept me engaged from start to finish—this is exactly what I crave when I’m looking for my Sci-Fi Romance fix. While the themes might not be entirely new, the way the events unfold and twist kept me on my toes the entire time.
The world-building was one of my favorite aspects. The planet of Wakanreo felt so detailed and thoughtfully constructed, yet it wasn’t overly complicated. I love a well-organized alien world, and the inclusion of immigration policies, of all things, strangely made me happy! It added a layer of depth to the society, setting a tone of civility that allowed me to focus more on the characters’ motivations and actions.
Dina (the female main character) was incredibly well-written. As the story is told through her perspective, it was crucial to understand exactly what she knew—and I was grateful for that clarity. It helped me connect with her, seeing why she reacted the way she did based on her age, education, and background. Kuaron (the male main character), on the other hand, was a bit harder to predict. His actions often surprised me, and I loved that about him.
What stood out was that the biggest tension between them wasn’t their species difference but rather their age gap and differing professions. I feel like if a human singer and scientist were to team up in real life, it would be far more chaotic, so the characters’ challenges felt realistic and grounded in their personalities.
One of the most delightful surprises for me was the language. At first, I had to reread the foreign words related to mating and bonding on Wakanreo. But then I remembered: there's a glossary! It was such a thoughtful addition. The book balances clear, simple descriptions of the alien culture’s concepts with humor, making the story both accessible and entertaining. The moments where the characters used their own idioms made me smile, and I appreciated how well it added to the richness of their relationship.
Overall, Alien Bonds delivered exactly what I was hoping for—a thoughtful and immersive sci-fi romance that felt fresh and full of surprises. If you’re a fan of well-developed worlds and engaging character dynamics, this book is a definite read.
As an avid reader, I can sometimes find myself bored or feeling like I've read similar stories before. But this one? It kept me engaged from start to finish—this is exactly what I crave when I’m looking for my Sci-Fi Romance fix. While the themes might not be entirely new, the way the events unfold and twist kept me on my toes the entire time.
The world-building was one of my favorite aspects. The planet of Wakanreo felt so detailed and thoughtfully constructed, yet it wasn’t overly complicated. I love a well-organized alien world, and the inclusion of immigration policies, of all things, strangely made me happy! It added a layer of depth to the society, setting a tone of civility that allowed me to focus more on the characters’ motivations and actions.
Dina (the female main character) was incredibly well-written. As the story is told through her perspective, it was crucial to understand exactly what she knew—and I was grateful for that clarity. It helped me connect with her, seeing why she reacted the way she did based on her age, education, and background. Kuaron (the male main character), on the other hand, was a bit harder to predict. His actions often surprised me, and I loved that about him.
What stood out was that the biggest tension between them wasn’t their species difference but rather their age gap and differing professions. I feel like if a human singer and scientist were to team up in real life, it would be far more chaotic, so the characters’ challenges felt realistic and grounded in their personalities.
One of the most delightful surprises for me was the language. At first, I had to reread the foreign words related to mating and bonding on Wakanreo. But then I remembered: there's a glossary! It was such a thoughtful addition. The book balances clear, simple descriptions of the alien culture’s concepts with humor, making the story both accessible and entertaining. The moments where the characters used their own idioms made me smile, and I appreciated how well it added to the richness of their relationship.
Overall, Alien Bonds delivered exactly what I was hoping for—a thoughtful and immersive sci-fi romance that felt fresh and full of surprises. If you’re a fan of well-developed worlds and engaging character dynamics, this book is a definite read.
April 1, 2024
What happens when two people of very different species become bonded together? Will they be able to work out their differences or is this relationship doomed to fail?
I found this book very interesting but at times confusing. The book takes place on an Alien world so naturally the culture, customs, and language will be different from our own, and the author displays this beautifully. The main character is a human woman named Dina Belliare. we quickly learn that physical touch is taboo between humans and the natives of this world Wakanreans. The Wakanreans are a race that mates for life and it appears physical touch can start the mating process. She makes the choice to go to a party with a friend, if only she knew this one choice would change her life forever.
I loved how the story flowed and how like the main character we learn more about this alien world as we get further into the story. We learn the language bit by bit as she learns what words mean and what certain actions represent. We learn the culture, customs, superstitions, and even the food and drink of this world. There are a few things I wish I could try, and a few pieces of artwork I wish I could see. The author writes a very nice description, but sometimes words can not channel how an object looks. What I see from the author's words, what you see, and even what the author saw when writing the description can be completely different things.
The only real issue I had with the book was, in the Kindle version of the book I received anyway, the glossary of the Alien words used throughout the book is in the back. As a person who doesn't want a book spoiled, I find this a bit irritating. Because there is a strong chance that I will spoil the ending of the book if I try to access the glossary as I am reading the book. I wish the glossary had been at the front of the book so that I could have learned the words before reading the book instead of as I read the book like the main character.
Overall if you like world-building of alien worlds, tied in with a bit of romance and drama this book would be a great addition to your collection
I found this book very interesting but at times confusing. The book takes place on an Alien world so naturally the culture, customs, and language will be different from our own, and the author displays this beautifully. The main character is a human woman named Dina Belliare. we quickly learn that physical touch is taboo between humans and the natives of this world Wakanreans. The Wakanreans are a race that mates for life and it appears physical touch can start the mating process. She makes the choice to go to a party with a friend, if only she knew this one choice would change her life forever.
I loved how the story flowed and how like the main character we learn more about this alien world as we get further into the story. We learn the language bit by bit as she learns what words mean and what certain actions represent. We learn the culture, customs, superstitions, and even the food and drink of this world. There are a few things I wish I could try, and a few pieces of artwork I wish I could see. The author writes a very nice description, but sometimes words can not channel how an object looks. What I see from the author's words, what you see, and even what the author saw when writing the description can be completely different things.
The only real issue I had with the book was, in the Kindle version of the book I received anyway, the glossary of the Alien words used throughout the book is in the back. As a person who doesn't want a book spoiled, I find this a bit irritating. Because there is a strong chance that I will spoil the ending of the book if I try to access the glossary as I am reading the book. I wish the glossary had been at the front of the book so that I could have learned the words before reading the book instead of as I read the book like the main character.
Overall if you like world-building of alien worlds, tied in with a bit of romance and drama this book would be a great addition to your collection
November 21, 2019
Alien Bonds
Interesting.....I would have liked to see the dictionary of words in the beginning of the book so that I knew what to expect with the meaning of the words. It took a lot longer to read trying to figure out the meanings of words, still sometimes the meanings weren't clear. There were a couple of times that I lost interest for a day or two because of the long process in the explanation of words or situations. I finally finished it but can't give you a good description of the story, basic details yes, but as for the different names of things no.
Interesting.....I would have liked to see the dictionary of words in the beginning of the book so that I knew what to expect with the meaning of the words. It took a lot longer to read trying to figure out the meanings of words, still sometimes the meanings weren't clear. There were a couple of times that I lost interest for a day or two because of the long process in the explanation of words or situations. I finally finished it but can't give you a good description of the story, basic details yes, but as for the different names of things no.
February 27, 2021
Love knows no bounds
This was my first sci-fi romance. I have never desired to read an alien/human romance. Ms. Buxton definitely converted me. I really enjoyed this book. She created her own language. That is pretty cool and probably took a great deal of time and thought. Ms. Buxton is also a good writer and even though the language and concept of multiple planets and such was foreign to me I found the story easy to follow. I like the thought of shahgunra and by the end I was wishing earthlings could follow some Waconrean customs. I will be continuing the series.
This was my first sci-fi romance. I have never desired to read an alien/human romance. Ms. Buxton definitely converted me. I really enjoyed this book. She created her own language. That is pretty cool and probably took a great deal of time and thought. Ms. Buxton is also a good writer and even though the language and concept of multiple planets and such was foreign to me I found the story easy to follow. I like the thought of shahgunra and by the end I was wishing earthlings could follow some Waconrean customs. I will be continuing the series.
May 27, 2022
What a skilled writer
Even though the book seemed very long, it really wasn’t. It just dealt in a lot of the intricacies of every day living with an u familiar species on an unfamiliar planet, which we needed to see on order to appreciate the struggles that our characters were facing. I especially loved the finesse with which Jared’s ceremony was handled - no more words needed to be said and that whole scene was TIGHT!! Very good book. I would love to know more.
Even though the book seemed very long, it really wasn’t. It just dealt in a lot of the intricacies of every day living with an u familiar species on an unfamiliar planet, which we needed to see on order to appreciate the struggles that our characters were facing. I especially loved the finesse with which Jared’s ceremony was handled - no more words needed to be said and that whole scene was TIGHT!! Very good book. I would love to know more.
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