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Saga of the Bold People #1
Leopold
How does a human survive in an alien dominated InterGalactic Community? By becoming an assassin, of course.
At least, that’s what Leopold thought when he became an assassin for the elite. Pretending to be an alien known as Voidstriker, Leopold feeds his appetite for vengeance, killing aliens as well as taking their money. It's a win-win to his mind. That is, until a bounty is placed upon his head.
With his true identity now revealed to the IG Community, Leopold knows it's only a matter of time before the powerful family members of his victims come for blood. Far worse is the fact that the one who put the bounty on his head, is the one he most fears.
A routine job three cycles ago brought him face-to-face with Mastrodai, a prince of the powerful Mrrog Nation. Not only did Leopold—accidentally—destroy part of Mastrodai’s moon, but one glimpse of the mighty alien had him feeling desire for the first time in his life. He ran, and like predator after prey, Mastrodai never stopped hunting him.
Leopold is convinced that Mastrodai wants bloody revenge. But when he finally confronts the mrrog, he is stunned to realize Mastrodai wants something very different. Something surprisingly intimate—the one thing that scares Leopold more than torture.
At least, that’s what Leopold thought when he became an assassin for the elite. Pretending to be an alien known as Voidstriker, Leopold feeds his appetite for vengeance, killing aliens as well as taking their money. It's a win-win to his mind. That is, until a bounty is placed upon his head.
With his true identity now revealed to the IG Community, Leopold knows it's only a matter of time before the powerful family members of his victims come for blood. Far worse is the fact that the one who put the bounty on his head, is the one he most fears.
A routine job three cycles ago brought him face-to-face with Mastrodai, a prince of the powerful Mrrog Nation. Not only did Leopold—accidentally—destroy part of Mastrodai’s moon, but one glimpse of the mighty alien had him feeling desire for the first time in his life. He ran, and like predator after prey, Mastrodai never stopped hunting him.
Leopold is convinced that Mastrodai wants bloody revenge. But when he finally confronts the mrrog, he is stunned to realize Mastrodai wants something very different. Something surprisingly intimate—the one thing that scares Leopold more than torture.
ebook
First published October 9, 2018
36 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
M.D. Grimm
52 books120 followersM.D. Grimm has wanted to write stories since second grade (kind of young to make life decisions, but whatever) and nothing has changed since then (well, plenty of things actually, but not that!).
Thankfully, she has indulgent parents who let her dream, but also made sure she understood she’d need a steady job to pay the bills (they never let her forget it!). After graduating from the University of Oregon and majoring in English, (let’s be honest: useless degree, what else was she going to do with it?) she started on her writing career and couldn’t be happier.
Working by day and writing by night (or any spare time she can carve out), she enjoys embarking on romantic quests and daring adventures (living vicariously, you could say) and creating characters that always triumph against the villain, (or else what’s the point?) finding their soul mate in the process.
Thankfully, she has indulgent parents who let her dream, but also made sure she understood she’d need a steady job to pay the bills (they never let her forget it!). After graduating from the University of Oregon and majoring in English, (let’s be honest: useless degree, what else was she going to do with it?) she started on her writing career and couldn’t be happier.
Working by day and writing by night (or any spare time she can carve out), she enjoys embarking on romantic quests and daring adventures (living vicariously, you could say) and creating characters that always triumph against the villain, (or else what’s the point?) finding their soul mate in the process.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 14, 2021
EDIT: I said I was going to read the second book. Until I found out it was MFM. No, no, and more no. Absolutely no interest. Done with the series.
Classic example of a great tale in desperate need of a good editor. Very uneven pacing. Far, far too long with a resolution that is much too convenient.
A professional editor would have highlighted some of the very UN-sci-fi terminology that plagued this story, stripped it of unnecessary narrative, refined the language and world building, and cut the overall length of the book by at least 100 pages.
Even with all these flaws, yes, I’m going to read the next book.
Classic example of a great tale in desperate need of a good editor. Very uneven pacing. Far, far too long with a resolution that is much too convenient.
A professional editor would have highlighted some of the very UN-sci-fi terminology that plagued this story, stripped it of unnecessary narrative, refined the language and world building, and cut the overall length of the book by at least 100 pages.
Even with all these flaws, yes, I’m going to read the next book.
November 19, 2018
Wow. This book just made me sad. Spoiler ahead:
I loved it for the first half. Wonderful characters, funny interactions and the actionpacked hunt. After that.... it went downhill. If you ask me, Leopold was way safer and uninjured BEFORE he met his oh so strong, powerfull and protective alien. Pah! I dont know, but doesnt protecting your beloved mate means to PROTECT HIM?! Leo was hurt so often after meeting M, even getting freakin whipped BY HIM (because there „was no other way“....) that theres probably no part left on his body without scars! His alien mate is the weakest „alpha“ alien mate i HAVE EVER READ ABOUT. Protect Leo! I thought he was SO important to you. Im still so shocked to the suffering. I stopped believing in his alien mate, when he said how Leo was his and he would cherish him. Sure.
And Leo! He sees no problems with all his bleeding wounds and new scars. Because, because its for his mate. Love REALLY makes you blind. And deaf. And naive. Poor Leo... Deleted it, no need for a sequel.
I loved it for the first half. Wonderful characters, funny interactions and the actionpacked hunt. After that.... it went downhill. If you ask me, Leopold was way safer and uninjured BEFORE he met his oh so strong, powerfull and protective alien. Pah! I dont know, but doesnt protecting your beloved mate means to PROTECT HIM?! Leo was hurt so often after meeting M, even getting freakin whipped BY HIM (because there „was no other way“....) that theres probably no part left on his body without scars! His alien mate is the weakest „alpha“ alien mate i HAVE EVER READ ABOUT. Protect Leo! I thought he was SO important to you. Im still so shocked to the suffering. I stopped believing in his alien mate, when he said how Leo was his and he would cherish him. Sure.
And Leo! He sees no problems with all his bleeding wounds and new scars. Because, because its for his mate. Love REALLY makes you blind. And deaf. And naive. Poor Leo... Deleted it, no need for a sequel.
October 9, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Leopold is kinda a mixed bag. There’s a lot of good to be found, but at times it means wading through a mix of the boring and obnoxious.
The first fourth of Leopold really wasn’t necessary. It sets up Leopold’s backstory, but honestly that could have been done with a few paragraphs rather than multiple chapters. It leaves the start of the story bogged down with extraneous detail and some pretty slow moving action scenes. Once Mastrodai captures Leo, the pace definitely improves and I would say the rest of the book is fairly steady, though there is still a fair amount that could be trimmed from the story as a whole. Too much of it reads like filler rather than necessary to the overall plot.
Leo and Mastrodai are complex and fairly well developed characters. They aren’t always likable in their actions, but this does make them relatable and gives them an added dimension. I would say both characters are the book’s highlight and when they’re together, there’s an honest sweetness between them that I enjoyed. They only seem to be themselves when they’re with one another. The rest of the world gets a series of masks and none of those are as endearing as the reality.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Leopold is kinda a mixed bag. There’s a lot of good to be found, but at times it means wading through a mix of the boring and obnoxious.
The first fourth of Leopold really wasn’t necessary. It sets up Leopold’s backstory, but honestly that could have been done with a few paragraphs rather than multiple chapters. It leaves the start of the story bogged down with extraneous detail and some pretty slow moving action scenes. Once Mastrodai captures Leo, the pace definitely improves and I would say the rest of the book is fairly steady, though there is still a fair amount that could be trimmed from the story as a whole. Too much of it reads like filler rather than necessary to the overall plot.
Leo and Mastrodai are complex and fairly well developed characters. They aren’t always likable in their actions, but this does make them relatable and gives them an added dimension. I would say both characters are the book’s highlight and when they’re together, there’s an honest sweetness between them that I enjoyed. They only seem to be themselves when they’re with one another. The rest of the world gets a series of masks and none of those are as endearing as the reality.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
March 20, 2020
It was a good read. I was kind of disappointed with the ending. But all in all I really grew to like Leopold's character and his romance with Matsrodai. The plot doesn't follow a typical story arch and reads more like memoirs from Leopold's life. Being boring one instant, then exciting, then god-damn awful, then boring again. Kind of resembling the randomness of life.
But I did enjoy Leopold's journey. Especially the first bit as he played cat and mouse with Mastrodai. The characters felt really rich and the author obviously put a lot of thought into world building.
Not a book for babies as there is a fair amount of sex and violence. Sometimes both.
But I did enjoy Leopold's journey. Especially the first bit as he played cat and mouse with Mastrodai. The characters felt really rich and the author obviously put a lot of thought into world building.
Not a book for babies as there is a fair amount of sex and violence. Sometimes both.
September 29, 2020
CW for this book. Definitely non con.
I know the blurb says all sex/relationship scenarios in this book are concentual between the main characters. They are not. When the person of power in a relationship has literal ownership of the other party, has a friend locked away and threatens their life if their demands aren't met, then forces a magical binding (marriage) ritual within hours of kidnapping them... IT'S NOT CONCENTUAL. Yes doesn't mean yes if the power is that unbalanced and the party without power is under extreme duress.
I know the blurb says all sex/relationship scenarios in this book are concentual between the main characters. They are not. When the person of power in a relationship has literal ownership of the other party, has a friend locked away and threatens their life if their demands aren't met, then forces a magical binding (marriage) ritual within hours of kidnapping them... IT'S NOT CONCENTUAL. Yes doesn't mean yes if the power is that unbalanced and the party without power is under extreme duress.
December 5, 2018
Rating: 4 stars
I’m of two mind on this book. On the one hand, I thought the world that the author created fascinating. On the other hand, I thought the book too long. The first half especially dragged for me. It felt like it took forever to just get to the half way point.
Another problem with the story was Leopold himself. The story was told exclusively from his point of view and he was such an aggressive and touchy character it was hard to relate to him. He became much more relatable once the relationship between him and Mastrodai was established. I really liked Mastrodai and thought the story picked up once he was introduced. He made the perfect partner for Leopold and I loved their interactions.
The plot of the story was pretty good. It was bit cliché and predictable in places but still enjoyable. My main issue was the rape and torture that happened toward the end of the book. It was pretty hard to read. There really should be some sort of trigger warning. Despite that I did end up liking this story and as it is the first in the series, I’m looking forward to reading the next one. Hopefully she won’t take as much time to write that one that she did this one.
I’m of two mind on this book. On the one hand, I thought the world that the author created fascinating. On the other hand, I thought the book too long. The first half especially dragged for me. It felt like it took forever to just get to the half way point.
Another problem with the story was Leopold himself. The story was told exclusively from his point of view and he was such an aggressive and touchy character it was hard to relate to him. He became much more relatable once the relationship between him and Mastrodai was established. I really liked Mastrodai and thought the story picked up once he was introduced. He made the perfect partner for Leopold and I loved their interactions.
The plot of the story was pretty good. It was bit cliché and predictable in places but still enjoyable. My main issue was the rape and torture that happened toward the end of the book. It was pretty hard to read. There really should be some sort of trigger warning. Despite that I did end up liking this story and as it is the first in the series, I’m looking forward to reading the next one. Hopefully she won’t take as much time to write that one that she did this one.
October 18, 2018
3.5 Stars
Warnings: Torture and rape off page, dealing with aftermath of the abuse
Hooyah, that was intense. But I’m surely eager for more of MD Grimm’s latest space opera chronicles! “Leopold” is the first entry to the author’s “Saga of the Bold People” set in fictional InterGalactic space long after the death of the Earth. It was overall a desolate, intense, racy, touching, violent and action-packed journey. The hero of the story was Leopold, born an unwanted human child and growing up holding on to the thirst of vengeance. Human was considered lesser being in this alien dominated world and Leopold’s way of thumbing his nose to the whole thing was being an assassin; hired by the elite to slay the elite.
The story followed Leopold’s adventures; slipping in and out of place assassinating, dodging captures, trying to survive living in multiple times harsher world for human. It was told from single POV, narrated by Leopold and the pace was varied between even and rapid. The upside of things was the insight into our hero’s thoughts and feelings; we learned early on of his conflicting fascination upon clapping eyes on Mastrodai, a powerful kenesurri, while on an assassination mission, how for all bravado he showed outwardly Leopold kept a multitude of feelings residue from his past. The downside was sometimes the thread leaped over events that we could only rely on the MC’s memories - or nightmares - of them, or the unexplainable instant fixation Mastrodai had on him.
Speaking of the character, considering his reputation as Voidstriker and his supposedly unseen power, sometimes Leopold exasperated me with his negligence and pig-headed reactions, not to mention his natural reaction to Mastrodai (I mean, as much as I love them together, I wish they had to work it out more to show what made them fit together well). Also, given that Leopold had survived for quite sometime alone, it just bugged me with the kind of “backup” he had on hand he could fall victims to the subsequent horrors. Between our protagonist, they should be able to anticipate who were considered plain bad and scheming bad of their opponents. But in a way, these were rather humbling and character-building experience that play well into Leopold and Mastrodai’s relationship development.
As the first entry into the “Saga of the Bold People” this book set a path on what our MC might face along the way. I’m not sure if the next part of the journey would stick with Leopold’s POV or continue with it. I surely wish as the story goes human would step further and further up in the food chain, and our protagonist able to sort out their problems. I read this book as a roundabout way to voice the latent inequality in modern world, by swapping the influential privileged races with aliens, or - as this universe taken to call - sescurei and the powerful kenesurri and the less fortunate races as species with no rights whatsoever. Humans of Earth descendent fell under the later description sadly. But fingers-crossed as Leopold and his ally fought for what they believed in and won, the same could be realized in rather worn today’s world, too. Bring on the next adventures!!
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Warnings: Torture and rape off page, dealing with aftermath of the abuse
Hooyah, that was intense. But I’m surely eager for more of MD Grimm’s latest space opera chronicles! “Leopold” is the first entry to the author’s “Saga of the Bold People” set in fictional InterGalactic space long after the death of the Earth. It was overall a desolate, intense, racy, touching, violent and action-packed journey. The hero of the story was Leopold, born an unwanted human child and growing up holding on to the thirst of vengeance. Human was considered lesser being in this alien dominated world and Leopold’s way of thumbing his nose to the whole thing was being an assassin; hired by the elite to slay the elite.
The story followed Leopold’s adventures; slipping in and out of place assassinating, dodging captures, trying to survive living in multiple times harsher world for human. It was told from single POV, narrated by Leopold and the pace was varied between even and rapid. The upside of things was the insight into our hero’s thoughts and feelings; we learned early on of his conflicting fascination upon clapping eyes on Mastrodai, a powerful kenesurri, while on an assassination mission, how for all bravado he showed outwardly Leopold kept a multitude of feelings residue from his past. The downside was sometimes the thread leaped over events that we could only rely on the MC’s memories - or nightmares - of them, or the unexplainable instant fixation Mastrodai had on him.
Speaking of the character, considering his reputation as Voidstriker and his supposedly unseen power, sometimes Leopold exasperated me with his negligence and pig-headed reactions, not to mention his natural reaction to Mastrodai (I mean, as much as I love them together, I wish they had to work it out more to show what made them fit together well). Also, given that Leopold had survived for quite sometime alone, it just bugged me with the kind of “backup” he had on hand he could fall victims to the subsequent horrors. Between our protagonist, they should be able to anticipate who were considered plain bad and scheming bad of their opponents. But in a way, these were rather humbling and character-building experience that play well into Leopold and Mastrodai’s relationship development.
As the first entry into the “Saga of the Bold People” this book set a path on what our MC might face along the way. I’m not sure if the next part of the journey would stick with Leopold’s POV or continue with it. I surely wish as the story goes human would step further and further up in the food chain, and our protagonist able to sort out their problems. I read this book as a roundabout way to voice the latent inequality in modern world, by swapping the influential privileged races with aliens, or - as this universe taken to call - sescurei and the powerful kenesurri and the less fortunate races as species with no rights whatsoever. Humans of Earth descendent fell under the later description sadly. But fingers-crossed as Leopold and his ally fought for what they believed in and won, the same could be realized in rather worn today’s world, too. Bring on the next adventures!!
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 19, 2019
What an ingenious sci fi novel. M.D. Grimm has created a world of three galaxies and a whole slew of species. She gives all the species names and describes them in great detail. And most are not humanoid. Some have tentacles for appendages, some of pincers, some have wings, most have numerous eyes. For example, there’s a tiny being with a that about in the air.
In this intergalactic universe, humans are at the bottom of the food chain. Species without home planets do not have legal status, and Earth no longer exists. (We destroyed it ourselves.) So humans are either bought and sold as slaves or live in absolute squalor. What a concept, huh?
The book reads more like a series of adventures than one cohesive novel. We follow Leopold as he becomes an assassin for the rich and powerful. He's good at his job and he’s feared, but no one knows he’s a human. When his cover is blown by an extremely wealthy mrrog, he’s on the run from bounty hunters. He’s captured—a couple of times, the last time by Mastrodai, the mrrog who put the bounty on his head. And then he’s forced to bond with Mastrodai. (Thankfully, the mrrog are one of the humanoid species.)
The adventures continue, but we begin to see changes in Leo. He rebels against everything, even though Mastrodai is quite benevolent. Freedom is everything to Leo, and now it’s been taken away. But as the book progresses, Leo meets people who become dear to him. And that’s the gist of the novel; Leo’s growth from an angry loner to someone who is loved, and loves return.
And then there’s sex. (Thank goodness Mastrodai is humanoid.) A lot of it. I did get to the point of possibly skimming through the scenes, but they are quite good (i.e., hot).
Leo's (lack of) understanding of our world is often hilarious.
He laughs at us when he discovers the discussion of UFOs and the debate of whether aliens exist or not. He gets mad when Mastrodai interrupts him at the climax of The Iliad.
Many of the secondary characters are delightful. A few of them are horrible. Grimm says she has about six more novels planned. I suppose that’s good because some of the biggest questions, mainly the meaning behind Leo’s visions, haven’t been answered yet. So now I’m wondering which of those secondary characters will become the focus for the next book.
As others have said, there are a huge number of grammatical errors, especially in the later chapters. Fortunately, I was actually able to more or less ignore them this time.
The deckle tilted his head to one side and snickered.
“What’s your name?” I asked.
“Tinker.”
I ask, "As in Bell?"
In this intergalactic universe, humans are at the bottom of the food chain. Species without home planets do not have legal status, and Earth no longer exists. (We destroyed it ourselves.) So humans are either bought and sold as slaves or live in absolute squalor. What a concept, huh?
The book reads more like a series of adventures than one cohesive novel. We follow Leopold as he becomes an assassin for the rich and powerful. He's good at his job and he’s feared, but no one knows he’s a human. When his cover is blown by an extremely wealthy mrrog, he’s on the run from bounty hunters. He’s captured—a couple of times, the last time by Mastrodai, the mrrog who put the bounty on his head. And then he’s forced to bond with Mastrodai. (Thankfully, the mrrog are one of the humanoid species.)
The adventures continue, but we begin to see changes in Leo. He rebels against everything, even though Mastrodai is quite benevolent. Freedom is everything to Leo, and now it’s been taken away. But as the book progresses, Leo meets people who become dear to him. And that’s the gist of the novel; Leo’s growth from an angry loner to someone who is loved, and loves return.
It was so fascinating how one moment he could be tender and considerate and then the next become a merciless killer. And both moods were because of me.
And then there’s sex. (Thank goodness Mastrodai is humanoid.) A lot of it. I did get to the point of possibly skimming through the scenes, but they are quite good (i.e., hot).
Leo's (lack of) understanding of our world is often hilarious.
“Well, it’s a droid. But it’s a replication of a creature on Earth called a dog. More specifically, a pug.”
“Pug?” I shook my head. Pug? What the fuck kind of name was that?
He laughs at us when he discovers the discussion of UFOs and the debate of whether aliens exist or not. He gets mad when Mastrodai interrupts him at the climax of The Iliad.
“Out of the way. Achilles is about to duel Hector. I have to see who wins.”
Many of the secondary characters are delightful. A few of them are horrible. Grimm says she has about six more novels planned. I suppose that’s good because some of the biggest questions, mainly the meaning behind Leo’s visions, haven’t been answered yet. So now I’m wondering which of those secondary characters will become the focus for the next book.
As others have said, there are a huge number of grammatical errors, especially in the later chapters. Fortunately, I was actually able to more or less ignore them this time.
December 3, 2022
Leopold is known as a species, a human from earth. Many young people were brought up in orphanages as the earth became extinct. He was rescued by Zed a Krushen, from the Sescurei/Kenesurri that enslaved and abused those that they captured. Even though Leo sought revenge and hated all aliens, there were still some good aliens and Zed was one of them. He took Leo under his wing and taught him to speak the universal language of Veruvian. Zed was an expert mechanic and kept the Doomed Voyager up and running and made Leo his apprentice and taught him all he knew. Zed’s life was a sad one, after his mate died he chose to not nest for ten years and just live a solitary life. Most of all Leo wanted to be an expert assassin and wanted all species to fear him.
As time passed, Leo did meet his goal, with twenty some odd assassin jobs under his belt. He made his fame among the species that could pay the high price to have an assassination carried out. He was almost perfect but it only took one time for an accident to happen. With a huge explosion he found himself face to face with one of the elite mrrog, Mastrodai and he never forgot.
Leo continued to prove himself as the top assassin. But he did it alone as his friend and mentor Zed had died. But through Zed, Leo always had a safe place to go the myxn village. He had made many friends through Zed too. Through it all he still never forgot the mrrog, Mastrodai.
After a job, Leo visits an out of the way bar and sees an old friend of Zeds, Chancy. What Leo doesn’t know is that there is a bounty on his head. He’s captured and wounded by Terk, a sex/slave-trafficker. But Leo finds a way to escape from the ship but not without taking other captives with him. But the escape doesn’t get easy as none other than Mastrodai is aboard the ship. No matter how hard he tries, Leo finds himself with Mastrodai on his tail. Even as resistant as Leo is the magnetism between him and Mastrodai is too strong to fight. Just when Mastrodai feels it’s time to return home to Mragin, he will face a big mistake and Leo is in unbelievable danger.
M.D. Grimm creates and explosive, fast, action packed story in “Leopold” the first book in “The Saga of the Bold People” series. It has everything in the way of sci-fi. Powerful ships, weapons, new species of Aliens, creative languages and very vivid descriptions. The start of this series is told with Leopold’s POV and it is a very long story, so there’s lot’s happening throughout this epic tale.
The enemies to lovers aspect of the story certainly creates anxiety. As Leopold is an assassin and hates the majority of aliens he’s forever running from Mastrodai. When they finally come together it’s very steamy and for Leopold a new experience. The relationship is very strong between them, especially for Mastrodai who never gave up his pursuit of Leo. It felt like they were just made for each other and nothing would come between them.
This exciting tale is loaded with so many interesting characters and I’m just naming a few: Zed, Chancy, Sasha, Juju, Elnar, Jewel, and Crissie.
“Leopold” was an exciting sci-fi adventure that had me wanting more of Leo and Mastrodai and what other dangers they would face in their chaotic world.
As time passed, Leo did meet his goal, with twenty some odd assassin jobs under his belt. He made his fame among the species that could pay the high price to have an assassination carried out. He was almost perfect but it only took one time for an accident to happen. With a huge explosion he found himself face to face with one of the elite mrrog, Mastrodai and he never forgot.
Leo continued to prove himself as the top assassin. But he did it alone as his friend and mentor Zed had died. But through Zed, Leo always had a safe place to go the myxn village. He had made many friends through Zed too. Through it all he still never forgot the mrrog, Mastrodai.
After a job, Leo visits an out of the way bar and sees an old friend of Zeds, Chancy. What Leo doesn’t know is that there is a bounty on his head. He’s captured and wounded by Terk, a sex/slave-trafficker. But Leo finds a way to escape from the ship but not without taking other captives with him. But the escape doesn’t get easy as none other than Mastrodai is aboard the ship. No matter how hard he tries, Leo finds himself with Mastrodai on his tail. Even as resistant as Leo is the magnetism between him and Mastrodai is too strong to fight. Just when Mastrodai feels it’s time to return home to Mragin, he will face a big mistake and Leo is in unbelievable danger.
M.D. Grimm creates and explosive, fast, action packed story in “Leopold” the first book in “The Saga of the Bold People” series. It has everything in the way of sci-fi. Powerful ships, weapons, new species of Aliens, creative languages and very vivid descriptions. The start of this series is told with Leopold’s POV and it is a very long story, so there’s lot’s happening throughout this epic tale.
The enemies to lovers aspect of the story certainly creates anxiety. As Leopold is an assassin and hates the majority of aliens he’s forever running from Mastrodai. When they finally come together it’s very steamy and for Leopold a new experience. The relationship is very strong between them, especially for Mastrodai who never gave up his pursuit of Leo. It felt like they were just made for each other and nothing would come between them.
This exciting tale is loaded with so many interesting characters and I’m just naming a few: Zed, Chancy, Sasha, Juju, Elnar, Jewel, and Crissie.
“Leopold” was an exciting sci-fi adventure that had me wanting more of Leo and Mastrodai and what other dangers they would face in their chaotic world.
October 13, 2018
I so rarely read science fiction stories, that it’s always an exciting treat for me when I find one like this that has such vast scope, intriguing characters, and complex world building. It was much longer than most books I read (about twice as long), so I was immersed in this universe for quite some time and did grow attached to both Leopold and Mastrodai. There were also supporting characters who caught my attention, and my curiosity is thoroughly piqued to see where the author goes with this saga.
Leopold seemed to have a lot of animosity toward alien species, and rightly so for the most part given how humans are viewed in this book’s world. He channels that into what he does, developing a reputation and becoming a sought-after assassin. While he’s aware there are aliens who are not like most and who are accepting of humans—even calling some of them friends—he never lets his guard down, always protecting himself first. Mastrodai, as a powerful mrrog alien and one who has Leopold on his radar, is someone Leopold actively tries to avoid…until he has nowhere left to run.
The intensity between them, boosted by the enemies-to-more/taboo aspect of them together, makes for a potent pairing—particularly once the physical side takes over between them. There’s still plenty of tension to go around, especially when it comes to the customs of Mastrodai’s people, as well as how alien species in general relate to humans, since humans are seen as nothing more than slaves to most. You’ll also find action and suspense, plus the friction you’d expect in such a complex world with so many diverse, intelligent species.
With a word count of around 170,000 (over 500 pages), this is a pretty long story. While there is plenty of detail, and the world and characters are complex, I felt there were areas that could have been scaled down or even removed without impacting the story and made it feel like it wasn’t so long. But at the same time, I liked that the author explained so much as it really did let me lose myself in the story to the point where I didn’t realize how much time passed as I read. Kind of a double-edged sword for me, but the length is something you should be aware of before you start.
Leopold was a 4.5-star read for me, and I’m definitely planning to see where the author plans to take things from here. If you’re a fan of sci-fi stories, this one would be a great book to add to your collection. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Leopold seemed to have a lot of animosity toward alien species, and rightly so for the most part given how humans are viewed in this book’s world. He channels that into what he does, developing a reputation and becoming a sought-after assassin. While he’s aware there are aliens who are not like most and who are accepting of humans—even calling some of them friends—he never lets his guard down, always protecting himself first. Mastrodai, as a powerful mrrog alien and one who has Leopold on his radar, is someone Leopold actively tries to avoid…until he has nowhere left to run.
The intensity between them, boosted by the enemies-to-more/taboo aspect of them together, makes for a potent pairing—particularly once the physical side takes over between them. There’s still plenty of tension to go around, especially when it comes to the customs of Mastrodai’s people, as well as how alien species in general relate to humans, since humans are seen as nothing more than slaves to most. You’ll also find action and suspense, plus the friction you’d expect in such a complex world with so many diverse, intelligent species.
With a word count of around 170,000 (over 500 pages), this is a pretty long story. While there is plenty of detail, and the world and characters are complex, I felt there were areas that could have been scaled down or even removed without impacting the story and made it feel like it wasn’t so long. But at the same time, I liked that the author explained so much as it really did let me lose myself in the story to the point where I didn’t realize how much time passed as I read. Kind of a double-edged sword for me, but the length is something you should be aware of before you start.
Leopold was a 4.5-star read for me, and I’m definitely planning to see where the author plans to take things from here. If you’re a fan of sci-fi stories, this one would be a great book to add to your collection. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
November 30, 2018
Science fiction books are a dime a dozen, but too many miss the mark. MD Grimm really takes the time to develop the characters and establish their stories. It's a long book, but I was never bored or felt like I was getting an info dump. The time literally flew by as I read. I do understand why the author says she has more books planned - there is so much more to learn about Leopold, and Mastrodai, their world, and their story. It was honestly very impressive and a really solid sci-fi book. Stop here if you don't want minor spoilers. I gave it four stars for a couple different reasons, the first being that there were so many loose ends left hanging which I find frustrating. Then, Mastrodai was a little forceful with Leo when they first began their sexual relationship which rubbed me just a bit wrong. Mastrodai never forced Leo, but he did push him to admit his feelings and the pylx (his cock's lube-like secretion that enhances sexual pleasure) definitely made it a little too easy for Leo to give in when he still had some reservations. That being said, Mastrodai definitely stopped and left him alone when Leo told him to. There IS rape, though not between Mastrodai and Leo and never fully on page. It is spoken of as a memory or vaguely, never in excruciating detail, but it may still be a trigger for some. The other issue bothering me in this book is that Mastrodai and Leo may not continue to be monogamous in future books. I have read some fantastic poly books, but I like to know my characters are going to end up that way. I have a hard time reading characters fall in love, declare themselves life mates and in love only to go off and have sex with other people. If MD Grimm does have them explore outside of their arrangement, I hope they will at least be together when they do. Leo having sex without Mastrodai present, even if he agrees, really feels wrong. That being said, the author worked really hard to show, not just tell the strength of the love and commitment between Mastrodai and Leo and I suspect whatever happens in the future their relationship will still come first. It was a really good book, but the ratings as a whole will hinge on the future books. I have really high hopes with this fantastic start.
October 14, 2018
Wonderful
I don’t usually write reviews but I honestly adored this book. The characters were real and super well developed the the relationships created over the course of the book were believable. I was also super pleased with the plot line which was just bursting with excitement and meaning! Totally worth reading and actually long enough to last more than an hour or two which in my opinion is a blessing.
I don’t usually write reviews but I honestly adored this book. The characters were real and super well developed the the relationships created over the course of the book were believable. I was also super pleased with the plot line which was just bursting with excitement and meaning! Totally worth reading and actually long enough to last more than an hour or two which in my opinion is a blessing.
February 9, 2020
Epic and galactic!
I’m in awe of this gem of a precious and priceless jewel in storytelling and imaginative masterpiece! I love this book, especially it’s two heroic and unforgettable characters: LEOPOLD & MASTRODAI! I’m so in love with this author! I can’t wait to start up reading another memorable saga from this writer’s collection! This book is apocalyptic and apologetic and in your face SENSATIONAL!!
I’m in awe of this gem of a precious and priceless jewel in storytelling and imaginative masterpiece! I love this book, especially it’s two heroic and unforgettable characters: LEOPOLD & MASTRODAI! I’m so in love with this author! I can’t wait to start up reading another memorable saga from this writer’s collection! This book is apocalyptic and apologetic and in your face SENSATIONAL!!
May 26, 2019
I liked the idea of a space assassin and the cat and mouse chase. It was good but needs an edit. Leo and Mas were kinda love hate for me. I liked their reactions to one another and how they grow. I didn’t like Leo’s attitude towards humans, by the end I preferred Mas. This one deals with human slavery and abuse. Favourite part was the tickling.
November 4, 2018
Leopold and Mastrodai
I loved reading about how Leopold's character evolved as he came to love Mastrodai. I look forward to reading about their adventures together. Please clean up the grammatical errors.
I loved reading about how Leopold's character evolved as he came to love Mastrodai. I look forward to reading about their adventures together. Please clean up the grammatical errors.
November 25, 2018
This was a really strong story
There were a ton of grammatical errors that made it less than it could've been though. Editing is required! I loved Leo and Mastrodai. There relationship was seamlessly developed and flushed out.
There were a ton of grammatical errors that made it less than it could've been though. Editing is required! I loved Leo and Mastrodai. There relationship was seamlessly developed and flushed out.
December 9, 2018
One of my favorite books of 2018
Highly recommended
I laughed and i cried and i fucking LOVE these characters
Highly recommended
I laughed and i cried and i fucking LOVE these characters
January 2, 2019
That was so cool :) Can't wait for the follow up
January 26, 2019
Excellent
This was such a good book. I usually don't like sci fi books but this book sucked me in I couldn't put it down.
This was such a good book. I usually don't like sci fi books but this book sucked me in I couldn't put it down.
February 5, 2023
Vou fingir que é um livro único e paz!✌️
March 23, 2022
Good guys don’t take hostages.
October 29, 2020
I was browsing through Amazon when I came across this little beauty and I’m so glad I took the chance and purchased it.
I absolutely loved this book - it was everything I wanted it to be and so much more.
Leopold was fierce and lethal but his choices take him down a dark path. A chance encounter with Mastrodai changes everything and the cat and mouse game begins. The chase comes to an end but a new journey of second chances begins.
Can these two stop butting heads enough to see the special bond growing between them? Will Mastridai succeed in protecting Leo?
Leo faced many challenges, obstacles and dangers. His free yet determined spirit made it difficult not to like or relate to him. The events towards the end shattered my heart - poor Leo went to hell and back yet the light and love he has for his mate brings him back.
The steamy scenes were scorching hot and captured their hunger, need and affection for one another perfectly.
Mastrodai surprised me at every turn with his considerate yet caring nature. He went above and beyond for Leo and his genuine affections including his purrs and licking (grooming) Leo was ever so sweet.
This was a gripping story with excellent world building and amazing MCs. I enjoyed it beginning to end and eagerly look forward to the next book. I’m definitely adding this author to my favourite list.
29/10/20
This is the second time Ive read this book prior to starting book 2. It’s been a while since I read it and needed to jog my memory.
This was an action packed, gripping yet super intense story. There were moments I cried with the things poor Leo went through.
Mastrodai was sweet as ever and I loved how he purred and soothed Leo. These two were so damn beautiful together and their love making captured everything that was hidden in gathering hearts.
I absolutely loved this book - it was everything I wanted it to be and so much more.
Leopold was fierce and lethal but his choices take him down a dark path. A chance encounter with Mastrodai changes everything and the cat and mouse game begins. The chase comes to an end but a new journey of second chances begins.
Can these two stop butting heads enough to see the special bond growing between them? Will Mastridai succeed in protecting Leo?
Leo faced many challenges, obstacles and dangers. His free yet determined spirit made it difficult not to like or relate to him. The events towards the end shattered my heart - poor Leo went to hell and back yet the light and love he has for his mate brings him back.
The steamy scenes were scorching hot and captured their hunger, need and affection for one another perfectly.
Mastrodai surprised me at every turn with his considerate yet caring nature. He went above and beyond for Leo and his genuine affections including his purrs and licking (grooming) Leo was ever so sweet.
This was a gripping story with excellent world building and amazing MCs. I enjoyed it beginning to end and eagerly look forward to the next book. I’m definitely adding this author to my favourite list.
29/10/20
This is the second time Ive read this book prior to starting book 2. It’s been a while since I read it and needed to jog my memory.
This was an action packed, gripping yet super intense story. There were moments I cried with the things poor Leo went through.
Mastrodai was sweet as ever and I loved how he purred and soothed Leo. These two were so damn beautiful together and their love making captured everything that was hidden in gathering hearts.
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