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A'yen's Legacy #1
My Name Is A'yen
They've taken everything from him. Except his name.
The Loks Mé have been slaves for so long, freedom is a distant myth A'yen Mesu no longer believes. A year in holding, because of his master's murder, has sucked the life from him. Archaeologist Farran Hart buys him to protect her on an expedition to the Rim, the last unexplored quadrant.
Farran believes the Loks Mé once lived on the Rim and is determined to prove it. And win A'yen's trust. But she's a breeder's daughter and can't be trusted.
Hidden rooms, information caches and messages from a long-dead king change A'yen's mind about her importance. When she's threatened he offers himself in exchange, and lands on the Breeder's Association's radar. The truth must be told. Even if it costs him his heart.
The Loks Mé have been slaves for so long, freedom is a distant myth A'yen Mesu no longer believes. A year in holding, because of his master's murder, has sucked the life from him. Archaeologist Farran Hart buys him to protect her on an expedition to the Rim, the last unexplored quadrant.
Farran believes the Loks Mé once lived on the Rim and is determined to prove it. And win A'yen's trust. But she's a breeder's daughter and can't be trusted.
Hidden rooms, information caches and messages from a long-dead king change A'yen's mind about her importance. When she's threatened he offers himself in exchange, and lands on the Breeder's Association's radar. The truth must be told. Even if it costs him his heart.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2014
79 people are currently reading
535 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Leigh Smith
13 books68 followersRachel Leigh Smith was swept off her feet at the age of six by Magnum, P.I., then again at nine by Frank Hardy. She remembers her favorite romance novels by the hero’s name, so of course she writes romance for the hero lover. She lives in central Louisiana with her family, a half-crazed calico, a ginger tabby lion, and a menagerie of book boyfriends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 26, 2019
3.5 STARS!
Plot: After his beloved owner/lover of 20 years dies trying to protect him, A'yen is sent to a 'holding' facility, where he spends almost a year suffering in horrible conditions. The story begins with his purchase by a mysterious female archaeologist.
So WOW, the sci-fi world-building in this one was FABULOUS! And the story was full of secrets, lies, adventure, heartbreak, and of course, love.
It's too bad it needed another round of editing to smooth out some of the rough edges; there were parts that were unclear and/or clunky and I had to make a few inferences to follow along . . . but I was completely hooked.
"I've been a slave all my life."I'm firmly rounding up because this was a GREAT story!
Plot: After his beloved owner/lover of 20 years dies trying to protect him, A'yen is sent to a 'holding' facility, where he spends almost a year suffering in horrible conditions. The story begins with his purchase by a mysterious female archaeologist.
So WOW, the sci-fi world-building in this one was FABULOUS! And the story was full of secrets, lies, adventure, heartbreak, and of course, love.
It's too bad it needed another round of editing to smooth out some of the rough edges; there were parts that were unclear and/or clunky and I had to make a few inferences to follow along . . . but I was completely hooked.
"Revenge may not be healthy in the long run, but it sure does taste good in the moment."The story dealt with some heavy issues: slavery, sexual assault, the definition of consent, what constitutes 'love', gender roles, among others. I love a book that makes me think.
It was the assumption of violence he hated.Since this one is FREE, if you love sci-fi romance, you have nothing to lose! Hopefully you'll find it as enthralling as I did . . . on to book 2!
August 25, 2014
My Name is A’yen is Rachel Smith’s first Science Fiction Romance novel and she is off to a very good start. A’yen and Farran meet the first time when she purchases him. There is no love or lust at first sight. Smith lets the two work together before any attraction develops. There are problems with that attraction. A’yen, like the rest of his race, cannot be freed. Farran’s Father keeps some of the worse breeding farms making it difficult for A’yen to trust her. While Farran is trying to find the Loks Me home world there are many who are trying to stop her. A’yen loved his first and only previous owner and is still struggling with his loss. Things often do not look that great for the two.
The pacing in My Name is A’yen keeps the story moving while setting up the character growth, world building, back-story and plot development. The story is told from different points of view. Several times when the point of view switched it was very disorienting as there was no build up just an abrupt change of both viewpoint and location. Many times that change introduced both new characters and a new setting. It just took a few seconds to realize what had happened and get back in the story so that was a minor problem but one that I noted each time it happened.
This is book 1 in the A’yen Legacy. While the book ends with somethings settled there is a lot more story to tell. Hopefully book #2 will be out soon. There is a lot more work to be done before A’yen and his people are free.
The pacing in My Name is A’yen keeps the story moving while setting up the character growth, world building, back-story and plot development. The story is told from different points of view. Several times when the point of view switched it was very disorienting as there was no build up just an abrupt change of both viewpoint and location. Many times that change introduced both new characters and a new setting. It just took a few seconds to realize what had happened and get back in the story so that was a minor problem but one that I noted each time it happened.
This is book 1 in the A’yen Legacy. While the book ends with somethings settled there is a lot more story to tell. Hopefully book #2 will be out soon. There is a lot more work to be done before A’yen and his people are free.
April 3, 2019
This book is many things...
I would describe it as a beautifully disturbing read. We sort of have a hate and love relationship. In a good way though.
Warning:
-Rape/ NON-CON/Abuse
-Psychological trauma
-Tortured hero
This was one of those reads that force you to experience stuff. In an intense way, like anger and frustration. Your only option is to read and hope it gets better for the MC's at some point.
My eyes itched a little and I got a weird feeling in my chest that made me sad and depressed.
You want to take a moment, but its too late and you start asking yourself existential questions like:
Should humanity achieve interstellar travel?
Isn't human history a never-ending cycle of evolution and destruction?
Humans are destructive. Do we deserve to meet other sentient beings?
Which made me wallow in a pool of gloomy thoughts and unwanted worries.
So many questions and I realize no matter how uncomfortable or frustrated I got, I was still engaged. Still invested in the story and our MC's.
Although this book is told through switched POVs, you quickly realize that it's really A'yen's story. A complex and truly unique character.
A'yen has nothing but his name. He and his kind have been enslaved for a long time. His master was killed and he lay broken in a holding cell for a year until Archaeologist Farran Hart buys him to protect her on an expedition to the Rim.
Farran is determined to prove that A'yen's people, the Loks Mé, once lived on the Rim. And for that, she not only needs A'yen's protection, but also his trust and knowledge.
It reminded me a little of Lord of the Storm, but not quiet the same.
A'yen is a hard character to like at first with such a distrustful and gruff exterior. But with each POV you peel different layers of his personality. The author does a really good job with his background and the psychological consequences of A'yen's life as a slave. Just loads of emotions I wasn't sure I could handle, but I'm glad I did. He is such a good character you are willing to see the good, the bad and the ugly.
Fae, on the other hand, is a prisoner of the society she lives in. She's trying to change the world with her work as an archeologist. Her father is the owner of the worse breeding farms and she struggles to be different from him. She's willing to be someone by doing what she thinks is right, prove the Loks Mé were an advanced and civil people.
Fae has a tough time throughout the book to gain A'yen's trust and discern his emotions. She tries really hard to make him understand that she wants to help his people and A'yen doesn't make it easy.
I didn't love Fae's character and I think A'yen stole her shine a little. She seems really naive sometimes bordering clueless territory. Her POVs weren't as good as A'yen's. And it was a little disappointing because she felt flat and unfeeling compared to our hero.
The romance actually begins after they establish a sort of understanding and friendship. It's a real slow burn with some glimpses of affection between the two. So when we're talking about the romance aspect, I was definitely unsatisfied.
The world building was interesting though and the mystery of Loks Mé people is what I think aced in Smith's work.
There's a little bit of action, a great dose of angst and constant suspense, that were very well balanced. I also felt that the pace changed constantly and it kept me interested.
I was definitely invested and moved by the writing. Smith's style keeps you leashed to her pages despite the fact that there are characters or events you might not like, and that is pure talent.
It's raw, it's heartwrenching and really gutsy. And I definitely appreciate that.
I think the weak romance plus the unexpected cliffhanger is what had me frowning. I wasn't satisfied after all the emotions I experienced. I really thought it was unfair to leave me speechless and unsatisfied with the ending. I wasn't dying to read the next in line. I was angry.
I did calm down afterward and I realized those were two things I could easily overcome since there's a sequel. Next book might override these feelings so I'm really hoping that when I do read it, it will make amends for this one's mistakes. That does not mean that the book was bad or that I didn't enjoy it. I did. But I needed it to be awesome.
I'm picky that way...
So I think 4 stars is the adequate rating. I do recommend this read and I am very pleased with this new author. I will try to finish her series when I'm in the right mood!
I bid you farewell, may your future read be FABULOUS!
I would describe it as a beautifully disturbing read. We sort of have a hate and love relationship. In a good way though.
Warning:
-Rape/ NON-CON/Abuse
-Psychological trauma
-Tortured hero
This was one of those reads that force you to experience stuff. In an intense way, like anger and frustration. Your only option is to read and hope it gets better for the MC's at some point.
My eyes itched a little and I got a weird feeling in my chest that made me sad and depressed.
You want to take a moment, but its too late and you start asking yourself existential questions like:
Should humanity achieve interstellar travel?
Isn't human history a never-ending cycle of evolution and destruction?
Humans are destructive. Do we deserve to meet other sentient beings?
Which made me wallow in a pool of gloomy thoughts and unwanted worries.
So many questions and I realize no matter how uncomfortable or frustrated I got, I was still engaged. Still invested in the story and our MC's.
Although this book is told through switched POVs, you quickly realize that it's really A'yen's story. A complex and truly unique character.
A'yen has nothing but his name. He and his kind have been enslaved for a long time. His master was killed and he lay broken in a holding cell for a year until Archaeologist Farran Hart buys him to protect her on an expedition to the Rim.
Farran is determined to prove that A'yen's people, the Loks Mé, once lived on the Rim. And for that, she not only needs A'yen's protection, but also his trust and knowledge.
It reminded me a little of Lord of the Storm, but not quiet the same.
A'yen is a hard character to like at first with such a distrustful and gruff exterior. But with each POV you peel different layers of his personality. The author does a really good job with his background and the psychological consequences of A'yen's life as a slave. Just loads of emotions I wasn't sure I could handle, but I'm glad I did. He is such a good character you are willing to see the good, the bad and the ugly.
Fae, on the other hand, is a prisoner of the society she lives in. She's trying to change the world with her work as an archeologist. Her father is the owner of the worse breeding farms and she struggles to be different from him. She's willing to be someone by doing what she thinks is right, prove the Loks Mé were an advanced and civil people.
Fae has a tough time throughout the book to gain A'yen's trust and discern his emotions. She tries really hard to make him understand that she wants to help his people and A'yen doesn't make it easy.
I didn't love Fae's character and I think A'yen stole her shine a little. She seems really naive sometimes bordering clueless territory. Her POVs weren't as good as A'yen's. And it was a little disappointing because she felt flat and unfeeling compared to our hero.
The romance actually begins after they establish a sort of understanding and friendship. It's a real slow burn with some glimpses of affection between the two. So when we're talking about the romance aspect, I was definitely unsatisfied.
The world building was interesting though and the mystery of Loks Mé people is what I think aced in Smith's work.
There's a little bit of action, a great dose of angst and constant suspense, that were very well balanced. I also felt that the pace changed constantly and it kept me interested.
I was definitely invested and moved by the writing. Smith's style keeps you leashed to her pages despite the fact that there are characters or events you might not like, and that is pure talent.
It's raw, it's heartwrenching and really gutsy. And I definitely appreciate that.
I think the weak romance plus the unexpected cliffhanger is what had me frowning. I wasn't satisfied after all the emotions I experienced. I really thought it was unfair to leave me speechless and unsatisfied with the ending. I wasn't dying to read the next in line. I was angry.
I did calm down afterward and I realized those were two things I could easily overcome since there's a sequel. Next book might override these feelings so I'm really hoping that when I do read it, it will make amends for this one's mistakes. That does not mean that the book was bad or that I didn't enjoy it. I did. But I needed it to be awesome.
I'm picky that way...
So I think 4 stars is the adequate rating. I do recommend this read and I am very pleased with this new author. I will try to finish her series when I'm in the right mood!
I bid you farewell, may your future read be FABULOUS!
December 30, 2015
When I started this book, I was really skeptical as to whether I would like it or not... Well, let me tell you, that this amazing new author blew me away with her debut novel and magical style of writing! ... I mainly read romance or suspense & recently started liking paranormal with shifters :)) This is my first sci-fi book in over 20 years, but the talented Ms. Smith weaves a bold, futuristic love story that grabbed a hold of me to where I would think about the story, even after I had to get back to my mundane reality :o ... Wonderfully developed characters & skillfully detailed descriptions will engage the reader & keep the pages turning :) ... I lost a lot of sleep for 2 nights in a row, coz I didn't want to put it down :o lol ... I recommend this MUST READ book to readers of any genre, those who can keep an open mind :) ... This unique fantasy also includes some mystery & suspense, yet tells of a love that grows so strong, it would fit in any century! ... Such an entertaining novel, unlike any other movie I've seen or book I've read since back when Star Trek or Star Wars first became popular! ... So run, don't walk and get your copy now, or at least add this to the top of your must read list :) ... I can NOT wait for the next book in "A'yen's Legacy" and hopefully more of these books after :)
March 7, 2015
Prepare to have your heart repeatedly broken before being patched back together.
What I liked
I adore tortured heroes, and A'yen is probably the most tortured soul I've ever encountered. Just when you feel thing can't get any worse and you see a glimmer of hope, Rachel Leigh Smith has A'yen's plight tear out your heart again. Beautifully descriptive writing and a real emotional rollercoaster. Good romantic tension, and plenty of action, mystery and intrigue. The word building was multi-layered and interesting.
What I didn't like
For me, the action/tension toward the end dropped off a bit. Considering how hard A'yen had to fight throughout the story to be seen as an individual rather than a thing and how his inability to control his life as a slave was abused, I felt some of the conflict/danger aspect from at least one individual could have been stronger.
In conclusion
This was an excellent debut and a promising start to a hero-centric, potentially epic scifi romance series. Looking forward to the rest of the books! (Psst, book two - The King's Mistress is already out).
What I liked
I adore tortured heroes, and A'yen is probably the most tortured soul I've ever encountered. Just when you feel thing can't get any worse and you see a glimmer of hope, Rachel Leigh Smith has A'yen's plight tear out your heart again. Beautifully descriptive writing and a real emotional rollercoaster. Good romantic tension, and plenty of action, mystery and intrigue. The word building was multi-layered and interesting.
What I didn't like
For me, the action/tension toward the end dropped off a bit. Considering how hard A'yen had to fight throughout the story to be seen as an individual rather than a thing and how his inability to control his life as a slave was abused, I felt some of the conflict/danger aspect from at least one individual could have been stronger.
In conclusion
This was an excellent debut and a promising start to a hero-centric, potentially epic scifi romance series. Looking forward to the rest of the books! (Psst, book two - The King's Mistress is already out).
May 19, 2019
Can I have a book without rape, please? Because this is not it...
June 27, 2016
This is Rachel Smith's début novel. She asked me to proofread it before she put it up for preorder online. This means that I had no substantive input into the storyline of the book.
This has to be one of the best début novels I have read. The concept is impressive in its complexity, and Smith's writing is very clear, minimising confusion as one learns new concepts and is introduced to a society and people group that is entirely alien.
A'yen, the main character of the book, is introduced to us as a slave-with-no-owner who has been kept in 'holding' for just over a year. We soon learn that his previous owner, and lover, was murdered and died in his arms. His outlook on life as we meet him is bleak, to say the least. He no longer believes that his people have a homeworld.
He is soon purchased by Farran Hart, an archaeologist in search of A'yen's homeworld. Together they embark on an expedition to a planet on the Rim that sees to fulfil the promises told in the legends of A'yen's people. A planet that A'yen has previously visited with his former Master.
What I really like about this book is that it is, while clearly being a romance, not your conventional romance-format story. While the romance itself faces challenges, the tension in the book comes from an unrelated source.
It didn't take long for A'yen to worm his way into my heart, which made this book a very tough read at times. While it isn't your conventional relaxing, easy read, it is a very rewarding one. All the characters have depth, enabling one to identify with some and resent others (I'm not going to kid about that) - and there are even a few surprises along the way, for good measure.
I appreciated the lengths to which Smith went in building the cultures, society and worlds the book depicts. Here are no info-dumps, but instead tidbits that are easily digestible and tangible, building up images in the mind.
Overall, this is - despite the tough subject matter - an accessible read with a lot of heart and a huge amount of depth. There is clearly much more to this than one book, and I will look forward to each of Smith's future works.
This has to be one of the best début novels I have read. The concept is impressive in its complexity, and Smith's writing is very clear, minimising confusion as one learns new concepts and is introduced to a society and people group that is entirely alien.
A'yen, the main character of the book, is introduced to us as a slave-with-no-owner who has been kept in 'holding' for just over a year. We soon learn that his previous owner, and lover, was murdered and died in his arms. His outlook on life as we meet him is bleak, to say the least. He no longer believes that his people have a homeworld.
He is soon purchased by Farran Hart, an archaeologist in search of A'yen's homeworld. Together they embark on an expedition to a planet on the Rim that sees to fulfil the promises told in the legends of A'yen's people. A planet that A'yen has previously visited with his former Master.
What I really like about this book is that it is, while clearly being a romance, not your conventional romance-format story. While the romance itself faces challenges, the tension in the book comes from an unrelated source.
It didn't take long for A'yen to worm his way into my heart, which made this book a very tough read at times. While it isn't your conventional relaxing, easy read, it is a very rewarding one. All the characters have depth, enabling one to identify with some and resent others (I'm not going to kid about that) - and there are even a few surprises along the way, for good measure.
I appreciated the lengths to which Smith went in building the cultures, society and worlds the book depicts. Here are no info-dumps, but instead tidbits that are easily digestible and tangible, building up images in the mind.
Overall, this is - despite the tough subject matter - an accessible read with a lot of heart and a huge amount of depth. There is clearly much more to this than one book, and I will look forward to each of Smith's future works.
October 28, 2014
As both a writer and an editor, all too often when I read for fun, I find myself mentally editing--not so with A'yen's Legacy. I'd been looking forward to reading this book for a long time, and when I finally sat down with it, I discovered writing that was bold and clear and full of voice, a story so compelling I had to figure out a way to prop my Kindle in the windowsill while I was doing dishes so I could keep reading, and characters so alive that I dreamed about them. A beautiful debut from Rachel Leigh Smith!
July 30, 2019
A master/slave relationship can never be equitable, neither can a relationship involving a child and an adult.
September 26, 2015
3-1/2 stars
A little slow moving with A'yen fighting his feeling and Fae being more than patient. Also the main story pretty slow going too. I'm not sure if I'll read more of this series. With a sci-fi romance, I like a little more romance.
A little slow moving with A'yen fighting his feeling and Fae being more than patient. Also the main story pretty slow going too. I'm not sure if I'll read more of this series. With a sci-fi romance, I like a little more romance.
March 4, 2018
I wasn't sure what to expect from a "science fiction romance," but I enjoyed My Name Is A'yen very much and I look forward to reading the next part in the A'yen's Legacy saga.
September 23, 2014
This deeply moving sci fi romance is so well written, it is hard to believe that this is Ms. Smith's freshman effort. The author builds a vivid world in which the abhorrent institution of slavery is embraced, and an entire race/culture has been subjugated since time immemorable. The story follows the travails of a slave, A'yen, who defies his station in life. He is purchased by Dr. Fae Hart, but she is not the typical slave owner. She has a hidden agenda: to discover the origins of A'yen's people and restore their freedom. Unbeknownst to either of them, there is a faction of dissidents working behind the scenes toward that common goal. Fae has to work hard to earn A'yen's trust, and the romance between them develops at a credible pace. The characters, even the secondary ones, are well developed. A'yen's character is so rich and believable that you cannot help but feel his pain and celebrate his (brief glimpses of) happiness. His determination to be viewed and treated as a person and not as property, is inspiring. Truly a lovable (and often snarky) character that you will be cheering for. However, the story is more than a character study. There is action and intrigue, and the story moves at a satisfying pace. I would be remiss if I did not mention the rape triggers, which thankfully are not graphically covered but still sufficiently disturbing so as to relay the horrors visited upon the main character. I anxiously look forward to reading the sequel and congratulate Ms. Smith on her amazing debut.
June 20, 2021
Wow if I could do a minus 5 stars I would.
If you want to read a NAMBLA justification fantasy this book is for you. This is f** up on a cracker.
I have never canceled an Amazon ebook before but I did on this one.
Let me make this clear 14 year old children can not consent to have sex with the guy who bought and groomed them when they were 10.
Slaves cannot consent.
And this is NOT the same as consenting adults choosing to be in a same sex relationship.
Anyone romancing this needs therapy!!!!
I got maybe a third of the way through the book waiting for someone to mention the problems with the main characters past relationship but when the mum rhapsodized about the pedo meeting her son at 10 and how she knew he would look after him. I opted out.
I don't care if I give spoilers here people should be warned about this book.
I felt like I needed to shower after this.
I had to then sit down and read three books with healthy consenting relationships to stop getting flashbacks from this book.
After writing this review and having to think of this book again I'm going to reread Grace Draven's Radiance again to make me feel better.
If you want to read a NAMBLA justification fantasy this book is for you. This is f** up on a cracker.
I have never canceled an Amazon ebook before but I did on this one.
Let me make this clear 14 year old children can not consent to have sex with the guy who bought and groomed them when they were 10.
Slaves cannot consent.
And this is NOT the same as consenting adults choosing to be in a same sex relationship.
Anyone romancing this needs therapy!!!!
I got maybe a third of the way through the book waiting for someone to mention the problems with the main characters past relationship but when the mum rhapsodized about the pedo meeting her son at 10 and how she knew he would look after him. I opted out.
I don't care if I give spoilers here people should be warned about this book.
I felt like I needed to shower after this.
I had to then sit down and read three books with healthy consenting relationships to stop getting flashbacks from this book.
After writing this review and having to think of this book again I'm going to reread Grace Draven's Radiance again to make me feel better.
February 25, 2017
“My Name is A’yen” is expansive science fiction epic. Ms. Smith draws the reader into a new world very quickly while explaining the intricacies of society along the way.
Read full review in the 2015 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2015 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
December 7, 2020
This book felt like a diamond in the rough.
It needed a lot of edditing, polishing and re-writing work before it could be magnificent. And it could be, it has all the potential.. Really. And this is the reason i gave it 3 stars and not 2.
The parts I think needed working on-
1. A'yen (the hero) is a great character the author wronged in writing, he is too much self absorbed, talks a lot about his emotion and obsessed with his previous love and self pity. It felt like the author really tried to make him the tormented hero, but instead made him a total cry baby. (cause really for a slave, he had had great life with a lot of benefits and people who cared about him while others were actually REAL SLAVES.) it was really showing and felt forced and unnatural the way she execute it. (i LOVE the tormented hero stracture and it didnt work for me here, in some parts i even found it annoying).
2. The other thing that really didnt work for me was the heroine. I think the author was so in love with creating A'yen she forgot to give more qualities and character to the heroine. Which made the relationship and drama between them weak at best and not as strong as I would expected from a well ploted story.
In no part did i felt connected to fae, she was so ordinary and flat i couldnt develop anything really towards her. I wanted to love her, wanted their relationship to be emotionally special and it fell short.
3. The last thing i really had problem with was that the author did (in general) a lot of TELLING instead of SHOWING.
means, alot of things the reader gets to know by how she tells it on the page (when A'yen cries about things lengthily for example, in so many dialogs with everyone who will listen) instead of by figuring it out from the description, in between lines,actions, feelings etc.
I really wish the author will work on that book a bit more so it could live its potential.
I will definitely read it again if it happen.
Ps. The book cover looks like fanfiction, really embarrassing. In such cases i cannot help but feel like the authors disrespect their own works with not investing enough with the cover. If you dont have the money for something fitting fine, write the title in big stylish font with some abstract background but please dont do this kind of ugly-not-worth-even-a-dollar photoshop.
It needed a lot of edditing, polishing and re-writing work before it could be magnificent. And it could be, it has all the potential.. Really. And this is the reason i gave it 3 stars and not 2.
The parts I think needed working on-
1. A'yen (the hero) is a great character the author wronged in writing, he is too much self absorbed, talks a lot about his emotion and obsessed with his previous love and self pity. It felt like the author really tried to make him the tormented hero, but instead made him a total cry baby. (cause really for a slave, he had had great life with a lot of benefits and people who cared about him while others were actually REAL SLAVES.) it was really showing and felt forced and unnatural the way she execute it. (i LOVE the tormented hero stracture and it didnt work for me here, in some parts i even found it annoying).
2. The other thing that really didnt work for me was the heroine. I think the author was so in love with creating A'yen she forgot to give more qualities and character to the heroine. Which made the relationship and drama between them weak at best and not as strong as I would expected from a well ploted story.
In no part did i felt connected to fae, she was so ordinary and flat i couldnt develop anything really towards her. I wanted to love her, wanted their relationship to be emotionally special and it fell short.
3. The last thing i really had problem with was that the author did (in general) a lot of TELLING instead of SHOWING.
means, alot of things the reader gets to know by how she tells it on the page (when A'yen cries about things lengthily for example, in so many dialogs with everyone who will listen) instead of by figuring it out from the description, in between lines,actions, feelings etc.
I really wish the author will work on that book a bit more so it could live its potential.
I will definitely read it again if it happen.
Ps. The book cover looks like fanfiction, really embarrassing. In such cases i cannot help but feel like the authors disrespect their own works with not investing enough with the cover. If you dont have the money for something fitting fine, write the title in big stylish font with some abstract background but please dont do this kind of ugly-not-worth-even-a-dollar photoshop.
May 27, 2017
I really liked this book. There were so many things that I did like that I can’t really seem to get them out of my head and translated into something coherent.
This book made me run the gambit of emotions from sad, to happy, to betrayal, outrage, and well pretty much everything between. Normally I dislike that sort of jumping around when it comes to my emotions, but it was done so very well. I really enjoyed the author’s way of writing it was just so lovely at times even if the subject matter was darn near tear inducing.
I adored the lore, cultures, and personal relationships that went on with all of the different characters. Some of them seemed pretty complicated, but the way the author introduced them made them seem the norm for the world built.
All in all I really liked this book and wouldn’t mind getting my hands on the other books in this series. I found I really like the author’s style of writing.
This book made me run the gambit of emotions from sad, to happy, to betrayal, outrage, and well pretty much everything between. Normally I dislike that sort of jumping around when it comes to my emotions, but it was done so very well. I really enjoyed the author’s way of writing it was just so lovely at times even if the subject matter was darn near tear inducing.
I adored the lore, cultures, and personal relationships that went on with all of the different characters. Some of them seemed pretty complicated, but the way the author introduced them made them seem the norm for the world built.
All in all I really liked this book and wouldn’t mind getting my hands on the other books in this series. I found I really like the author’s style of writing.
December 18, 2017
Just who is A'yen?
There are so many facets to this book, I don't even know where to start. Absolutely compelling story! The characters so complex and well written. Set at a time in the future, and yet in some ways feels like an ancient time. But done in such a way that you can feel the prejudices, misconceptions, fear and above all hope that have plagued every circulation throughout time. A'yen comes from a race fighting to be free of slavery and for a place of equality. He is more important than he knows and will find help in people he never imagined. And he will find a love he never thought he'd ever want again, if only he can release the past and let the present in.
Completely enthralled by this book from page one !! And you can bet I'll be looking for more from Me. Smith.
There are so many facets to this book, I don't even know where to start. Absolutely compelling story! The characters so complex and well written. Set at a time in the future, and yet in some ways feels like an ancient time. But done in such a way that you can feel the prejudices, misconceptions, fear and above all hope that have plagued every circulation throughout time. A'yen comes from a race fighting to be free of slavery and for a place of equality. He is more important than he knows and will find help in people he never imagined. And he will find a love he never thought he'd ever want again, if only he can release the past and let the present in.
Completely enthralled by this book from page one !! And you can bet I'll be looking for more from Me. Smith.
December 26, 2017
Gripping story and worlds
This is a story of enslavement of a whole race. Said race being told they were never free. But one person believes they were and thinks she know from which planet they are from. Proving it will be another story, even with possibly evidence.
It's a love story. A'yen had a love for many year with a human man. Said man is killed and A'yen is once again sold as the slave his people are. But the person who bought him and what happens next is as if the fates have orchestrated it.
Well written self-contained story that's very entertaining to read.
This is a story of enslavement of a whole race. Said race being told they were never free. But one person believes they were and thinks she know from which planet they are from. Proving it will be another story, even with possibly evidence.
It's a love story. A'yen had a love for many year with a human man. Said man is killed and A'yen is once again sold as the slave his people are. But the person who bought him and what happens next is as if the fates have orchestrated it.
Well written self-contained story that's very entertaining to read.
April 10, 2018
I enjoyed reading this book. It takes you into the experiences of the main character A’yen with twists and turns in every chapter. I found that I couldn’t put it down ( and I’m sure it’s a book I will read again) . I’m looking forward to starting the next book in the series - which I’ve already downloaded!
April 3, 2025
Based on Kindle Sample - The writing is quite choppy with a lot of sentence fragments, it seems as if every few words there is a period, whether it's called for or not. Sentence structure is awkward as well. Good for this person for writing a book, however the writing is far from what you'd call professional. I'm thankful for Kindle Samples, because I'd be quite unhappy to have paid for this.
October 8, 2018
Historical Future Romance
This book sucked me in from the get-go.
While fiction, this mixes (future) history, romance and intrigue. And spices things up with a rags to riches element.
Recommended reading.
This book sucked me in from the get-go.
While fiction, this mixes (future) history, romance and intrigue. And spices things up with a rags to riches element.
Recommended reading.
June 15, 2019
My Name is A'yen
I loved the story. It starts out with A'yen in prison and Farran buying him. She is an archeologist and is trying to find his home world. He doesn't believe the stories anymore but will go with her to protect her. A lot of action.
I loved the story. It starts out with A'yen in prison and Farran buying him. She is an archeologist and is trying to find his home world. He doesn't believe the stories anymore but will go with her to protect her. A lot of action.
June 30, 2025
This was my first sci fi romance. Where has this genre been and why did I miss out! I am so excited to read on. Love the plot and story building. Some transitions aren’t as smooth as my brain likes them but I can tell if I reread it would be fine. 4.5 stars and I am hooked!
February 9, 2018
Pretty realistic way of the effects of slavery on a man who was born to be way more than an "it".
October 16, 2018
Great read!
Totally unexpected and fantastically creative. A great mix of fantasy and sci Fi with mystery, action, romance and oh my the feels, you won’t believe the feels. Enjoy!
Totally unexpected and fantastically creative. A great mix of fantasy and sci Fi with mystery, action, romance and oh my the feels, you won’t believe the feels. Enjoy!
February 15, 2017
Quite Amazing,
I don't always get into storylines from other planets, weird I guess, since I do like paranormal. This grabbed me, sucked me in, and didn't let go! The storyline is fabulous, A'yen, Fae, Arrin, Cap, Pete and the rest are great characters, well developed, defined and makes you root for them. There's been such heartache and sadness, now it looks as if there may be more but with the love, hope, friends, New family and New life, happiness may not be far off. Look forward to reading the rest! Sorry for Rachel's loss! Maybe A'yen has helped to give you Peace and a piece of your loved one like nothing else can. Thank you for sharing A'yen and part of your story!
This series is for EVERYONE that believes in freedom and Love, no matter the cost or maybe in spite of the cost. You won't be disappointed with this series!
I don't always get into storylines from other planets, weird I guess, since I do like paranormal. This grabbed me, sucked me in, and didn't let go! The storyline is fabulous, A'yen, Fae, Arrin, Cap, Pete and the rest are great characters, well developed, defined and makes you root for them. There's been such heartache and sadness, now it looks as if there may be more but with the love, hope, friends, New family and New life, happiness may not be far off. Look forward to reading the rest! Sorry for Rachel's loss! Maybe A'yen has helped to give you Peace and a piece of your loved one like nothing else can. Thank you for sharing A'yen and part of your story!
This series is for EVERYONE that believes in freedom and Love, no matter the cost or maybe in spite of the cost. You won't be disappointed with this series!
January 13, 2015
This sci-fi novel is set well into the future. A'yen is a handsome Loks-Ma slave, all the male descendants from his race have been slaves for a very long time, all having to bear painful ink markings across their bodies which their captors can control them with. The history of his planet and his people is slowly beginning to get lost along with their hopes of freedom.
A'yen is held in holding/prison after the murder of his previous master which he loved dearly, he is then purchased by Farran an archaeologist who needs him to help her explore what she hopes is the lost Loks-Me planet. Not only does she find hidden treasures and evidence of a previously well advanced culture but she also falls for A'yen. But as she is human and he isn't and also knowing who their fathers are, can they really be together ? and can they save the Loks-Me people ?
Whilst I really grew to love this book with the twists, turns and romance, I personally found it a little complicated in places and a little hard to grasp to begin with. This book may not be everyone's cup of tea, it focuses on slavery and this happens from a young age. However, I feel it is cleverly written as it didn't leave me feeling disturbed at all by any of the events past or present. There is a strong chemistry and relationship that is building between A'yen and Farrah which can really be felt throughout the book.
I am really looking forward to reading the next book... The King's Mistress.
September 3, 2016
I thought this was a wonderful book. It deals with a lot of tough topics - slavery and rape for starters - and has LGB themes to it, and yes, one questions the motive of one character who is only present in the story as a memory. (Some would call him a pedophile - but as this is Sci-Fi, I chose to believe that A'yen's people age faster than humans.) There are things in this book that will trigger some readers.
But the story is full of hope and perseverance and healing and learning to trust. The world building is exquisite, in such fine detail that I really felt I could understand the world I was reading about. I loved A'yen's strength and character, and I felt for him and the torment he experienced. I loved Farran's character, too. She was just as strong as A'yen and dealt with much of it alone, while he had so many friends to help him. For a long time, I wasn't sure he deserved her, until he got is head out of his you know what and saw what a great woman she was.
There are some sex scenes with a mostly closed door, and definite references to both hetero and homosexual love and abuse. It is not easy to read about the things that happen. I'd have to give it a PG-17 rating, for violent and sexual content. I think the language was pretty clean. A quick search revealed 0 f-bombs.
But the story is full of hope and perseverance and healing and learning to trust. The world building is exquisite, in such fine detail that I really felt I could understand the world I was reading about. I loved A'yen's strength and character, and I felt for him and the torment he experienced. I loved Farran's character, too. She was just as strong as A'yen and dealt with much of it alone, while he had so many friends to help him. For a long time, I wasn't sure he deserved her, until he got is head out of his you know what and saw what a great woman she was.
There are some sex scenes with a mostly closed door, and definite references to both hetero and homosexual love and abuse. It is not easy to read about the things that happen. I'd have to give it a PG-17 rating, for violent and sexual content. I think the language was pretty clean. A quick search revealed 0 f-bombs.
June 5, 2015
I admit, until I read this book, I wasn't a science fiction reader at all. Other than some awesome comics with SF elements in it, nope not a one. Then I was given a copy of My Name is A'yen and that all changed.
Author Rachel Smith doesn't pull any punches with content and subject matter, yet delicate and tastefully, showing a side of slavery and same sex situations without prejudice and malice. If you're a reader who loves hero-centered books this one is right up your alley. A'yen is the perfect example of someone who will do what it takes to protect those that he loves or cares for, even at the cost of his own life.
The scenes are rich with detail, whether they're on the Adventure or the unexplored planet believed to be the Lokmane's home planet. The nuances of who and what the Lokmane are is purely imaginative and wonderfully brought to life in each character, especially in A'yen.
Smith shows her deep roots in SF and romance, giving us a wonderful read that will keep you up at night, or unable t pull yourself away from the story.
Author Rachel Smith doesn't pull any punches with content and subject matter, yet delicate and tastefully, showing a side of slavery and same sex situations without prejudice and malice. If you're a reader who loves hero-centered books this one is right up your alley. A'yen is the perfect example of someone who will do what it takes to protect those that he loves or cares for, even at the cost of his own life.
The scenes are rich with detail, whether they're on the Adventure or the unexplored planet believed to be the Lokmane's home planet. The nuances of who and what the Lokmane are is purely imaginative and wonderfully brought to life in each character, especially in A'yen.
Smith shows her deep roots in SF and romance, giving us a wonderful read that will keep you up at night, or unable t pull yourself away from the story.
December 25, 2015
Rachel Leigh Smith’s “My Name is A''yen” is the first book in her A’yen’s Legacy series. It sets up a wonderful mythology with a full ensemble of characters. The series is daring – I like that she took the chance to have the leading man have a history with another man. The main characters, Fae and A’yen are both complex and multifaceted. Definitely a book for smart readers to really dig into. My only small issue is that I wish we had gotten more detailed descriptions of the intimate scenes – seems like we get the start of the scene or a recap of what happened, but never a nice, full-on sexy scene.
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