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Saving Askara #1
Saving Askara
Victoria's day starts out like any other aboard the transorbital ship, Phoenix. Such is the life of an emergency medicine specialist in the age of "post-discovery". Sure, she had always dreamed of interacting with intelligent extraterrestrial life- the real thing, not those microbes on distant moons. Who wouldn't? She was still happy with her career, however mundane and demanding it might be. That's what it took to run a ship the size of a small city smoothly. Monotony. But all that changes one morning, and suddenly she's not so sure she didn't stick her foot in it...
Be careful what you wish for.
***
Escape had been their only drive, and even death was preferable to the alternative. But they never thought their flight for freedom would put them in an uncharted system. Forced to interact with an isolated world and its inferior, albeit curious people. When it affords them an unforseen and unprecedented opportunity to take back their world from those who seek to destroy them, however, Aderus begins to wonder if it wasn't fate. Earth's proposal is shocking and uncomfortable for a fierce, independent race that relishes in their solitude. But the more he learns of humans, the more he comes to admire and respect them. One, in particular.
*Saving Askara is a Part I of II*
WARNING: Not intended for readers under 18.
Contains explicit sexual content.
Be careful what you wish for.
***
Escape had been their only drive, and even death was preferable to the alternative. But they never thought their flight for freedom would put them in an uncharted system. Forced to interact with an isolated world and its inferior, albeit curious people. When it affords them an unforseen and unprecedented opportunity to take back their world from those who seek to destroy them, however, Aderus begins to wonder if it wasn't fate. Earth's proposal is shocking and uncomfortable for a fierce, independent race that relishes in their solitude. But the more he learns of humans, the more he comes to admire and respect them. One, in particular.
*Saving Askara is a Part I of II*
WARNING: Not intended for readers under 18.
Contains explicit sexual content.
216 pages, Paperback
First published February 5, 2018
458 people are currently reading
2592 people want to read
About the author
J.M. Link
6 books369 followersJM is a part-time writer, full-time dreamer, who was raised in rural upstate New York where she still resides with her wonderful husband, their son and two four-legged fur children. She loves anything to do with space and relishes in the search for the perfect chai latte.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 406 reviews
October 2, 2023
I think we’ve got a case of genre confusion here. As a sci-fi novel, I liked Saving Askara. But as an alien romance, it falls flat. Which is unfortunate because the series is marketed as alien romance first and foremost.
Saving Askara is a first contact story about a group of humans living on a space station orbiting Earth and an alien spaceship that pops into existence nearby. The Askari vessel, containing war prisoners fleeing a devastating genocide on their home planet, are the first sentient aliens humans have ever come across. Victoria, the heroine, is a medical specialist chosen to facilitate diplomatic talks with the Askari delegate, Aderus.
Humans want to convince their new alien contacts to share their superior tech. The Askari desperately need help defending against the alien invaders destroying their planet. But the two alien races are very different physically and socially, and that complicates the fragile alliance they’re hoping to forge. Those differences cause most of the conflict in the plot, because…not that much actually happens in this book.
So, as a sci-fi book—pretty cool. Aderus and Tori struggle to understand each other. The Askari by nature are solitary, stoic, and prone to aggressive displays. They don’t talk much. They find humans small, weak, underdeveloped, and annoyingly social, but the desperate situation they’re in forces them to ask humans for help. They’re not too happy about that.
As an alien romance—nope. It doesn’t work. Aderus, while a compelling character, sucks as a love interest. He thinks Tori is irritating and offputting, and he has no qualms letting her know how pathetic and unappealing she is. Like…am I supposed to be rooting for this guy to get the girl? Tori, for her part, is a total doormat. Anytime Aderus gets mad at her and throws a childish fit, she apologizes immediately, whereas he never deigns to apologize to her or even meet her a quarter of the way. The two leads had zero chemistry and I didn’t buy their romance for a second.
Also, the world-building was underdeveloped and made little sense. We know next to nothing about the broader context of the story. When in the human future does this story take place? No clue. On the one hand, they have space stations and synthetic blood and other advanced tech. On the other hand, Tori makes contemporary references that make me think it’s not that far in our future (for instance, she compares a character to Captain America).
Just to show you how confused the whole book really is, when Tori curses, she invokes so many different deities, as if the author changed her mind seven times about the belief system of this world while writing then never bothered to go back and edit for consistency. First Tori says “oh my god” like a modern person, then she switches to “Gaia”, sometimes she says “gods” or “goddess”, then she’s back to “Jesus”, then finally she invokes “Good Reason”, like…what?? What the fuck do these sci-fi people believe in? Just fucking pick one!
The aliens don’t make a lot of sense either. Perhaps this is nitpicking because I’m a bio nerd, but the book focuses in on their social differences, so I have to point this out. The Askari are supposedly a solitary species. There are no mate pairs, no family units, no communities, no romantic relationships at all (again, why is this a romance?). How then did they come to be the dominant species on their planet? How did they develop complex technology, form armies, build societies? The number one trait in humans that has allowed us to become the dominant species on Earth is our ability to communicate, organize, and specialize—that’s what enables us to build cities and grow food and do literally anything beyond what an individual human can accomplish. Even on an alien planet, the ability to work in a larger system of people is a prerequisite to building the kind of society the Askari have. So I think the basic premise of the book is flawed.
Anyway, I’m going to finish the duet because 1) this book ends on a cliffhanger and 2) I’m trying to be better about completing the series I start. Hopefully book 2 has some development in the leads’ chemistry and better worldbuilding.
Saving Askara is a first contact story about a group of humans living on a space station orbiting Earth and an alien spaceship that pops into existence nearby. The Askari vessel, containing war prisoners fleeing a devastating genocide on their home planet, are the first sentient aliens humans have ever come across. Victoria, the heroine, is a medical specialist chosen to facilitate diplomatic talks with the Askari delegate, Aderus.
Humans want to convince their new alien contacts to share their superior tech. The Askari desperately need help defending against the alien invaders destroying their planet. But the two alien races are very different physically and socially, and that complicates the fragile alliance they’re hoping to forge. Those differences cause most of the conflict in the plot, because…not that much actually happens in this book.
So, as a sci-fi book—pretty cool. Aderus and Tori struggle to understand each other. The Askari by nature are solitary, stoic, and prone to aggressive displays. They don’t talk much. They find humans small, weak, underdeveloped, and annoyingly social, but the desperate situation they’re in forces them to ask humans for help. They’re not too happy about that.
As an alien romance—nope. It doesn’t work. Aderus, while a compelling character, sucks as a love interest. He thinks Tori is irritating and offputting, and he has no qualms letting her know how pathetic and unappealing she is. Like…am I supposed to be rooting for this guy to get the girl? Tori, for her part, is a total doormat. Anytime Aderus gets mad at her and throws a childish fit, she apologizes immediately, whereas he never deigns to apologize to her or even meet her a quarter of the way. The two leads had zero chemistry and I didn’t buy their romance for a second.
Also, the world-building was underdeveloped and made little sense. We know next to nothing about the broader context of the story. When in the human future does this story take place? No clue. On the one hand, they have space stations and synthetic blood and other advanced tech. On the other hand, Tori makes contemporary references that make me think it’s not that far in our future (for instance, she compares a character to Captain America).
Just to show you how confused the whole book really is, when Tori curses, she invokes so many different deities, as if the author changed her mind seven times about the belief system of this world while writing then never bothered to go back and edit for consistency. First Tori says “oh my god” like a modern person, then she switches to “Gaia”, sometimes she says “gods” or “goddess”, then she’s back to “Jesus”, then finally she invokes “Good Reason”, like…what?? What the fuck do these sci-fi people believe in? Just fucking pick one!
The aliens don’t make a lot of sense either. Perhaps this is nitpicking because I’m a bio nerd, but the book focuses in on their social differences, so I have to point this out. The Askari are supposedly a solitary species. There are no mate pairs, no family units, no communities, no romantic relationships at all (again, why is this a romance?). How then did they come to be the dominant species on their planet? How did they develop complex technology, form armies, build societies? The number one trait in humans that has allowed us to become the dominant species on Earth is our ability to communicate, organize, and specialize—that’s what enables us to build cities and grow food and do literally anything beyond what an individual human can accomplish. Even on an alien planet, the ability to work in a larger system of people is a prerequisite to building the kind of society the Askari have. So I think the basic premise of the book is flawed.
Anyway, I’m going to finish the duet because 1) this book ends on a cliffhanger and 2) I’m trying to be better about completing the series I start. Hopefully book 2 has some development in the leads’ chemistry and better worldbuilding.
February 14, 2024
What a gem this was, Saving Askara actually took me completely by surprise and blew me away with how much I enjoyed it.
I've been meaning to get round to this book for a while and let me tell you it definitely didn't disappoint loved it.
I have a thing for real aliens that actually seem and act different and this had that in spades.
So this story revolves around Tori who is a human Doctor stationed on a Research ship orbiting the earth and Aderus a Demon like species of alien whose ship they encounter.
Tori is chosen by the aliens to be their liaison when the two species make an alliance.
So I adored the pure alienness of the story, Aderus initially finds Tori completely unattractive and strange-looking not just in appearance but also in temperament.
Their own females are highly aggressive more so than the males so she is also an anomaly in that way.
Aderus himself, like all his kind, is solitary, stoic, unemotional disliking physical touch.
Obviously Tori is his complete opposite and is also more tactile in nature.
Confused, slightly disgusted and horrified when he initially realises he is drawn to Tori Aderus tries to keep his distance.
She is much more accepting of there attraction initially than him.
But with Tori being the human liaison the two are thrown together continuously.
So many things about this I loved like this takes into account not just the physical differences but also the cultural.
I adored how predatory and different Aderus was and also how tentative and unstructured the courting was, loved the explorations of there unique differences and the intimate scenes between both were only hotter due to the pure alienness of everything.
So this is slow burn, duel POV and is also part one of a duet, not to worry both are out so no waiting around.
Highly recommend this its a fantastic read.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
April 12, 2018
First off – THAT COVER! It’s beautiful! Now, I usually am one to judge a book by its cover, though I know I shouldn’t as I’ve read some really good books with bad covers, and bad books with amazing covers, but that really is what draws my eye to the book and I gauge my interest based on that. This cover seriously lured me and I one-clicked fast and moved it up to the top of my TBR pile.
I was NOT disappointed! I loved this book from the first page, and even more so once Aderus was introduced. If you know me, you know I love ‘other’ heroes. Aderus seriously fits the bill! While humanoid in shape, everything else is quite different. Almost scary. Probably scary. His entire race, the Askara, are vicious being who live by instinct. He’s detached, and solitary, and they don’t like to be touched. But things change the more he learns about Tori.
Tori is sweet. She’s patient and understanding, though she likes to flip flop. I wanted to tell her to just jump his bones, but I completely understood her reasons and her hesitation. She’s a healer, and has been made into an ambassador (requested by Aderus) between her people and his. She isn’t cowed by demands, and despite her size, she is no weakling.
This book is a slow burn and it is so worth it by the end. I loved every minute of it and highly recommend this book and the series to come after it which will include characters from Saving Askara. There is a bit of a cliffhanger, and I knew this going into this book, so I’m on the edge of my seat waiting for the next!
I was NOT disappointed! I loved this book from the first page, and even more so once Aderus was introduced. If you know me, you know I love ‘other’ heroes. Aderus seriously fits the bill! While humanoid in shape, everything else is quite different. Almost scary. Probably scary. His entire race, the Askara, are vicious being who live by instinct. He’s detached, and solitary, and they don’t like to be touched. But things change the more he learns about Tori.
Tori is sweet. She’s patient and understanding, though she likes to flip flop. I wanted to tell her to just jump his bones, but I completely understood her reasons and her hesitation. She’s a healer, and has been made into an ambassador (requested by Aderus) between her people and his. She isn’t cowed by demands, and despite her size, she is no weakling.
This book is a slow burn and it is so worth it by the end. I loved every minute of it and highly recommend this book and the series to come after it which will include characters from Saving Askara. There is a bit of a cliffhanger, and I knew this going into this book, so I’m on the edge of my seat waiting for the next!
April 21, 2021
Audio - 4 Stars
Story - 4 Stars
Story - 4 Stars
April 18, 2018
Damn you Cliffhanger....damn you!!!
I simply LOVE IT when I find jewels like this one and I also hate it when I don't read and see that it ends in a cliffhanger with the next book not even dated for its upcoming release.
Everything I love about scify-alien-romance stories I found it in Saving Askara:
-Kickass heroine
-Grouchy alien hero
-Great storyline
-No insta-love
-Heat level through the roof
I just need the next book ASAP please!
I simply LOVE IT when I find jewels like this one and I also hate it when I don't read and see that it ends in a cliffhanger with the next book not even dated for its upcoming release.
Everything I love about scify-alien-romance stories I found it in Saving Askara:
-Kickass heroine
-Grouchy alien hero
-Great storyline
-No insta-love
-Heat level through the roof
I just need the next book ASAP please!
June 28, 2018
Y'all, this was so good! It's exactly what I want in an alien romance and a great way to start a new series. I love the experiencing the learning and coming together of two completely different cultures, not to mention species. And give me a slow burn any day of the week. Definitely recommend for all those who love actual aliens in their scifi romance. Can't wait for the next one!
January 31, 2021
I DNF'd the book at less than 25%. So my review of the book is going to be highly selective...
I do understand that the book is supposed to be Science FICTION romance, but I just couldn't move on from the unbelievable first meeting. And the cliches!
My main problem with this book was the 'first contact' with the aliens and how stupidly it was handled. I would like to think that the Earthlings would have far more sense than what was exhibited in the book. It was compounded with the fact that the first meeting was done by the heroine and her TSTL decisions.
First of all, why would a civilian doctor be in on the first meeting? Has the military lost all their doctors? And then, the heroine puts out her hand to shake with alien!! An alien, who has no clue about their culture and about whose culture, she has no clue. She, then, decides to go on an alien ship without any protection. If she was the only person allowed to go, I would be all for sending her too. But her reactions are all wrong - she is never afraid of going there alone (and that is after 5-minute meeting with an alien who doesn't speak).
Her immediate anti-human sentiments grated on me, too. Why would she be strongly against sharing any knowledge she gleans from aliens to her superiors? Isn't the basic idea of getting to know an alien race is to share the knowledge about their culture? She basically thought she knew more about handling aliens than her superiors and pretty much everyone else. She suddenly trusts alien race not only to not hurt her but also mean no harm to Earth as a whole!
Her reactions, her surprise about an alien race requiring blood was off and exaggerated. And also, why would she give them HER blood? Why didn't she just get some stored blood for the hurt aliens? And she kept touching an alien race even though he clearly explained her the reason to not to do so!
My other complaint was the cliches - demon looking aliens that drink the blood (and her blood tasting delicious and warm!), a girly bestie, an arrogant creepy colleague and the pushy, hostile superior with political power. I could clearly see where the story was going.
I am sure the romance would have been interesting enough, but I hit my level of tolerance with TSTL actions of the heroine and the cliches (due to which I could see the entire book playing out)! This was simply not my cup of tea.
I do understand that the book is supposed to be Science FICTION romance, but I just couldn't move on from the unbelievable first meeting. And the cliches!
My main problem with this book was the 'first contact' with the aliens and how stupidly it was handled. I would like to think that the Earthlings would have far more sense than what was exhibited in the book. It was compounded with the fact that the first meeting was done by the heroine and her TSTL decisions.
First of all, why would a civilian doctor be in on the first meeting? Has the military lost all their doctors? And then, the heroine puts out her hand to shake with alien!! An alien, who has no clue about their culture and about whose culture, she has no clue. She, then, decides to go on an alien ship without any protection. If she was the only person allowed to go, I would be all for sending her too. But her reactions are all wrong - she is never afraid of going there alone (and that is after 5-minute meeting with an alien who doesn't speak).
Her immediate anti-human sentiments grated on me, too. Why would she be strongly against sharing any knowledge she gleans from aliens to her superiors? Isn't the basic idea of getting to know an alien race is to share the knowledge about their culture? She basically thought she knew more about handling aliens than her superiors and pretty much everyone else. She suddenly trusts alien race not only to not hurt her but also mean no harm to Earth as a whole!
Her reactions, her surprise about an alien race requiring blood was off and exaggerated. And also, why would she give them HER blood? Why didn't she just get some stored blood for the hurt aliens? And she kept touching an alien race even though he clearly explained her the reason to not to do so!
My other complaint was the cliches - demon looking aliens that drink the blood (and her blood tasting delicious and warm!), a girly bestie, an arrogant creepy colleague and the pushy, hostile superior with political power. I could clearly see where the story was going.
I am sure the romance would have been interesting enough, but I hit my level of tolerance with TSTL actions of the heroine and the cliches (due to which I could see the entire book playing out)! This was simply not my cup of tea.
February 8, 2019
I found a gem!!!!
DO NOT let the cover fool you - this book was amazing!!! Highly recommended for fans of The Last Hour of Gannby R. Lee Smith and Lips Like Ice by Peggy Barnett. Personally i found saving Askara even better than those two because it doesn't drag so long page after page. I have no words to describe this book other than it had everything in it... sci-fi, slow building romance, discovery, real predatory aliens...
warning: this story is not the whole story and if you hate cliffhangers....better wait, till part two is out.
Escape had been their only drive, and even death was preferable to the alternative. But they never thought their flight for freedom would put them in an uncharted system. Forced to interact with an isolated world and its inferior, albeit curious people.
When it affords them an unforseen and unprecedented opportunity to take back their world from those who seek to destroy them, however, Aderus begins to wonder if it wasn't fate. Earth's proposal is shocking and uncomfortable for a fierce, independent race that relishes in their solitude. But the more he learns of humans, the more he comes to admire and respect them. One, in particular.
DO NOT let the cover fool you - this book was amazing!!! Highly recommended for fans of The Last Hour of Gannby R. Lee Smith and Lips Like Ice by Peggy Barnett. Personally i found saving Askara even better than those two because it doesn't drag so long page after page. I have no words to describe this book other than it had everything in it... sci-fi, slow building romance, discovery, real predatory aliens...
warning: this story is not the whole story and if you hate cliffhangers....better wait, till part two is out.
Escape had been their only drive, and even death was preferable to the alternative. But they never thought their flight for freedom would put them in an uncharted system. Forced to interact with an isolated world and its inferior, albeit curious people.
When it affords them an unforseen and unprecedented opportunity to take back their world from those who seek to destroy them, however, Aderus begins to wonder if it wasn't fate. Earth's proposal is shocking and uncomfortable for a fierce, independent race that relishes in their solitude. But the more he learns of humans, the more he comes to admire and respect them. One, in particular.
July 4, 2018
What a pleasant surprise. I had my doubts about this novel because I thought it would have been like other cliches alien romance novels. I liked that the protagonists weren't instantly attracted to each other. Most alien romance makes this mistake.
I enjoyed the banter between Tori and Aderus. She pulled his hair! That had me cracking... I also liked how Adreus listed all of Toria's unattractive traits, yet he still wanted her.
I was getting tired of Tori's sudden bravery and immediate trust. It was like an on and off switch:
"A recklessness tore through her and the next thin Tori knew she was running into the room".
Besides those hiccups, I enjoyed this book. I can't wait for the next story in this series.
I enjoyed the banter between Tori and Aderus. She pulled his hair! That had me cracking... I also liked how Adreus listed all of Toria's unattractive traits, yet he still wanted her.
I was getting tired of Tori's sudden bravery and immediate trust. It was like an on and off switch:
"A recklessness tore through her and the next thin Tori knew she was running into the room".
Besides those hiccups, I enjoyed this book. I can't wait for the next story in this series.
April 28, 2024
Great writing about first contact with aliens, who need human help. Better than usual sci-fi romance about aliens who are secretive and violent. The doctor h seemed quite real to me, as she navigates the needs of two very different cultures, and physiology, with very different diets.
April 20, 2018
I have a lot of love for this book. A LOT. Like, it gave me all the odd, alien lovin' I didn't know I needed AND the potential for so much more. Actually, let me modify that slightly: I could still do with more alien lovin'. Aderus and Tori barely scratched the surface on what works for them and I imagine it will only get better.
Things I loved: The Askari are VERY not human. Humanoid, in some respects, but there are plenty of differences once you get past the two legs and two arms thing. Culturally, they're worlds apart. Askari are extremely solitary and Tori and her people aren't. Which causes some tense moments for our characters.
Basically, Aderus has to suppress every instinct he has when they make first contact and I PRETTY MUCH LOVED THAT.
Flat out, it takes time for Aderus and Tori to begin to see each other in a potential romantic light. Aderus is focused (as are all the Askari survivors) on pulling his people out of the cosmic crapstorm they've found themselves in. (Uhh, that's a metaphorical cosmic crapstorm, not a literal one. Just so we're clear.) As a doctor, Tori is focused on helping the wounded aboard the Askari ship and not completely blowing things with a heretofore unknown alien species.
I am SO ready to see what happens next. Because this book isn't the end of their story and that ending KILLED ME.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Things I loved: The Askari are VERY not human. Humanoid, in some respects, but there are plenty of differences once you get past the two legs and two arms thing. Culturally, they're worlds apart. Askari are extremely solitary and Tori and her people aren't. Which causes some tense moments for our characters.
Basically, Aderus has to suppress every instinct he has when they make first contact and I PRETTY MUCH LOVED THAT.
Flat out, it takes time for Aderus and Tori to begin to see each other in a potential romantic light. Aderus is focused (as are all the Askari survivors) on pulling his people out of the cosmic crapstorm they've found themselves in. (Uhh, that's a metaphorical cosmic crapstorm, not a literal one. Just so we're clear.) As a doctor, Tori is focused on helping the wounded aboard the Askari ship and not completely blowing things with a heretofore unknown alien species.
I am SO ready to see what happens next. Because this book isn't the end of their story and that ending KILLED ME.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
April 15, 2018
Oh this was a good sci-fi romance - the first of two parts.
The Askara are aliens whose home planet has been overtaken. The Askara in this book escaped imprisonment due to a solar flare and high tailed it out of there. They randomly ended up in Earth’s atmosphere and are seeking assistance to repair their ship. This is set in the future and Earth is more advanced but not a ton more than today.
Enter Tori a doctor serving on the space station where the aliens have docked. Tori is smart and her open minded- she manages to convince the aliens to allow her onboard.
The Askara are very much aliens, they seem almost animal like in their communication style - lots of noises and body language but their technology is far far superior than what Earth has.
Tori is a bit weirded out by them and more than a bit intimidated but overall she is dedicated to helping their alliance with the humans.
Aderus serves as the main ambassador from the Askara but also guards Tori on the alien ship when she goes there to treat patients.
This first book sets up a lot and I really enjoyed Tori’s determination to help and learn about the Askara. Her growing relationship with Aderus is also interesting- they are both unsure how to deal with it.
The book ends with a cliffhanger so I really hope the next one is out soon!
The Askara are aliens whose home planet has been overtaken. The Askara in this book escaped imprisonment due to a solar flare and high tailed it out of there. They randomly ended up in Earth’s atmosphere and are seeking assistance to repair their ship. This is set in the future and Earth is more advanced but not a ton more than today.
Enter Tori a doctor serving on the space station where the aliens have docked. Tori is smart and her open minded- she manages to convince the aliens to allow her onboard.
The Askara are very much aliens, they seem almost animal like in their communication style - lots of noises and body language but their technology is far far superior than what Earth has.
Tori is a bit weirded out by them and more than a bit intimidated but overall she is dedicated to helping their alliance with the humans.
Aderus serves as the main ambassador from the Askara but also guards Tori on the alien ship when she goes there to treat patients.
This first book sets up a lot and I really enjoyed Tori’s determination to help and learn about the Askara. Her growing relationship with Aderus is also interesting- they are both unsure how to deal with it.
The book ends with a cliffhanger so I really hope the next one is out soon!
August 4, 2020
Oooh, I'm always so happy when I find a new author and series.
This one really impressed me as it made first alien contact so realistic. There's no mistaking that these guys are ALIENS. They don't behave or think like humans...and they shouldn't be expected to.
Because of these differences, there's no insta-love here. Tori and Aderus have to work to understand each other...pretty hot!
The first book ends on a cliffie, so I'm proceeding right into book 2.
This one really impressed me as it made first alien contact so realistic. There's no mistaking that these guys are ALIENS. They don't behave or think like humans...and they shouldn't be expected to.
Because of these differences, there's no insta-love here. Tori and Aderus have to work to understand each other...pretty hot!
The first book ends on a cliffie, so I'm proceeding right into book 2.
April 13, 2018
This was a KU and the first book by J.M. Link. The cover enticed me but the story pulled me in. If you're looking for a sci fi romance with a truly alien hero this book is for you. I like that the Askarans aren't anything like humans, nor do they pretend to be.
I thought the writing was very good for a debut novel. The characters are smart and engaging. I was totally invested in the story. I wish the next book was already available. *** warning*** the story is not concluded. I wouldn't say the book ends in a nail biting cliffhanger but it leaves you wanting more. If you don't have kindle unlimited the book is worth the 1-click.
Once in awhile I read a book with kindle unlimited that I have buy so it's in my permanent library. This is one of those books. I'll definitely be re-reading this one and hope the wait isn't very long for the next book.
4.0 - 4.50 ***
I thought the writing was very good for a debut novel. The characters are smart and engaging. I was totally invested in the story. I wish the next book was already available. *** warning*** the story is not concluded. I wouldn't say the book ends in a nail biting cliffhanger but it leaves you wanting more. If you don't have kindle unlimited the book is worth the 1-click.
Once in awhile I read a book with kindle unlimited that I have buy so it's in my permanent library. This is one of those books. I'll definitely be re-reading this one and hope the wait isn't very long for the next book.
4.0 - 4.50 ***
September 18, 2018
4.5 stars.
An excellent story, the hero is a real alien looking! And he came from a culture so different from Earth. Er.. this is not erotica, it’s a slow burn romance with an amazing heroine! 😘
Ended with a cliffhanger but book #2 already published, so no complaints here.
❤️❤️❤️
An excellent story, the hero is a real alien looking! And he came from a culture so different from Earth. Er.. this is not erotica, it’s a slow burn romance with an amazing heroine! 😘
Ended with a cliffhanger but book #2 already published, so no complaints here.
❤️❤️❤️
July 6, 2021
New favorite alien romance right here! I can’t believe this has sat on my tbr for over a year and I didn’t read it sooner! If you want a super inhuman and slightly terrifying (but super mesmerizing) hero and a slow burn with a verrrry satisfying payoff, then read this immediately!
I can’t believe this was a debut because it’s so well written, and I’m putting J. M. Link on my insta-read author list.
It does end on a cliffhanger, so prepare to want to dive immediately into book 2, as I’m about to do.
I can’t believe this was a debut because it’s so well written, and I’m putting J. M. Link on my insta-read author list.
It does end on a cliffhanger, so prepare to want to dive immediately into book 2, as I’m about to do.
April 23, 2018
The book Saving Askara by J.M. Link was an amazingly refreshing new discovery.
What drew me in to her world, right from the start, was that non-generic and unique view on aliens. As well as the rare and authentic display of a female character. Who has brains, conquers her anxiety and rises with every confrontation and new task. All on her own. It was a joy. We need more of those real characters. Down to earth, no drama, real feelings i could relate to and not focused solemnly on unrealistic romantic aspects. The author succeeded in her task to portray Aliens, as Aliens. And they were more intriguing than any i have read before. Besides the book "The last hour of Gann". As well as the political, social and psychological considerations, she mentioned. Not only for the created Alien society but the humans as well. That is what made me love it.
I really hope she keeps that up. And surprises us with more unique and creative stories and insight of the Askari and their crew. And does not fall into the trap of more instalments for the sake of it, which easily fall victim to superficiality and focus solemnly on romantic encounters for the sake of more "novellas" every second month. I hate those. There are way to many of those out there already, lately, with no ambitions and less creative writing. Where you can spot easily the writers limits and average talent.
Which this book proofed not to be. It was a really enjoyable surprise. I hope the author sticks to her shown talent and rises as well.
I actually loved that it was not a cheap sexual and romantic based formula fiction. That the romantic aspect was given time to bloom, without neglecting the sci-fi aspect.
That Cliffhanger made me jolt in my seat and groan out lout, that the book was already over. I can't wait to read the next book about Tori and Aderus. In hopes it will be a long and adventures one.
PS: the book cover on kindle with the backside of Aderus is beautiful and preternatural. Thank you, it is not another naked man body pumped full of steroids with bulging veins.
What drew me in to her world, right from the start, was that non-generic and unique view on aliens. As well as the rare and authentic display of a female character. Who has brains, conquers her anxiety and rises with every confrontation and new task. All on her own. It was a joy. We need more of those real characters. Down to earth, no drama, real feelings i could relate to and not focused solemnly on unrealistic romantic aspects. The author succeeded in her task to portray Aliens, as Aliens. And they were more intriguing than any i have read before. Besides the book "The last hour of Gann". As well as the political, social and psychological considerations, she mentioned. Not only for the created Alien society but the humans as well. That is what made me love it.
I really hope she keeps that up. And surprises us with more unique and creative stories and insight of the Askari and their crew. And does not fall into the trap of more instalments for the sake of it, which easily fall victim to superficiality and focus solemnly on romantic encounters for the sake of more "novellas" every second month. I hate those. There are way to many of those out there already, lately, with no ambitions and less creative writing. Where you can spot easily the writers limits and average talent.
Which this book proofed not to be. It was a really enjoyable surprise. I hope the author sticks to her shown talent and rises as well.
I actually loved that it was not a cheap sexual and romantic based formula fiction. That the romantic aspect was given time to bloom, without neglecting the sci-fi aspect.
That Cliffhanger made me jolt in my seat and groan out lout, that the book was already over. I can't wait to read the next book about Tori and Aderus. In hopes it will be a long and adventures one.
PS: the book cover on kindle with the backside of Aderus is beautiful and preternatural. Thank you, it is not another naked man body pumped full of steroids with bulging veins.
May 13, 2020
What a wonderful and original story!
Realistic plot line, original characters, vivid descriptions, loved the journey in witnessing the politics around a new alien race looking for humanities help....just absolutely in love with the story.
I loved that Aderus, the alien species looking for humanities aid and Victoria's, the ER doctor in the role of diplomat story, was NOT an insta romance or even initial attraction. The author gave Aderus and Victoria time to get to know each other. Also, Aderus is an ALIEN and you felt it and saw it. His thinking and his physical description was vividly emphasized so when their ' romance' occurred we knew it's Victoria human meets Aderus alien.
When they finally became intimate it wasn't just lust but curiosity and adventure. Almost all alien romance limit their love to fated soul mate so that there is no choice and no adventure but also takes away the consent of the lovers. This was a 'relationship ' where interspecies love was not to have more babies to populate their dying planet, or alien invasion with human woman made into slaves at auction. This was an adult woman exploring her sexuality with an a 'male' that made her wet. It probably want the best time but it was real.
One point of contention:
A professional doctor would never have sex with their patient. I would have rather her be any other professional then a doctor violating her oath of office with such negligence.
Anyway already looking all over for the next book. Eagerly waiting even if the last book was a cliffhanger
Realistic plot line, original characters, vivid descriptions, loved the journey in witnessing the politics around a new alien race looking for humanities help....just absolutely in love with the story.
I loved that Aderus, the alien species looking for humanities aid and Victoria's, the ER doctor in the role of diplomat story, was NOT an insta romance or even initial attraction. The author gave Aderus and Victoria time to get to know each other. Also, Aderus is an ALIEN and you felt it and saw it. His thinking and his physical description was vividly emphasized so when their ' romance' occurred we knew it's Victoria human meets Aderus alien.
When they finally became intimate it wasn't just lust but curiosity and adventure. Almost all alien romance limit their love to fated soul mate so that there is no choice and no adventure but also takes away the consent of the lovers. This was a 'relationship ' where interspecies love was not to have more babies to populate their dying planet, or alien invasion with human woman made into slaves at auction. This was an adult woman exploring her sexuality with an a 'male' that made her wet. It probably want the best time but it was real.
One point of contention:
A professional doctor would never have sex with their patient. I would have rather her be any other professional then a doctor violating her oath of office with such negligence.
Anyway already looking all over for the next book. Eagerly waiting even if the last book was a cliffhanger
April 10, 2018
A very promising debut novel! The aliens are alien, not humans from another system. They are bipedal/humanoid in form with some very significant differences The author handles those differences quite well.
Tori, a human emergency medicine doctor based in space, is the unwitting human ambassador to the alien race. Due to her training and caring nature, she gains the very beginnings of trust from the aliens who have fled their war-ravaged homeworld.
Aderus is the de facto leader of the aliens, the Askari. Their world has been invaded and only one ship managed to escape, with many injured. They need help but are not a species that has developed that kind of relationship with other species.
Tori and Aderus learn to work together for the greater good of each species. Along the way, we learn more about the Askari and the burgeoning relationship between Tori and Aderus.
This book does end on a cliffhanger and I am looking forward to the next book!
Tori, a human emergency medicine doctor based in space, is the unwitting human ambassador to the alien race. Due to her training and caring nature, she gains the very beginnings of trust from the aliens who have fled their war-ravaged homeworld.
Aderus is the de facto leader of the aliens, the Askari. Their world has been invaded and only one ship managed to escape, with many injured. They need help but are not a species that has developed that kind of relationship with other species.
Tori and Aderus learn to work together for the greater good of each species. Along the way, we learn more about the Askari and the burgeoning relationship between Tori and Aderus.
This book does end on a cliffhanger and I am looking forward to the next book!
November 30, 2021
3 stars because I’m waiting and hoping for the 2nd book to really get things going.
Spoiler alert: it didn’t
I’m sorry I wasted my time on these two books.
Spoiler alert: it didn’t
I’m sorry I wasted my time on these two books.
November 27, 2019
Very recently I have been laid out with really severe back problems. I literally couldn’t do anything, even now tying shoe laces requires a quick rest and some painkillers afterwards to recover. But, there has been a little light in the recently dark miasma of pain. I couldn’t do much more than lie down, so I had plenty of time to further develop my obsession with all things alien romance related. This is how Saving Askara wandered into my world.
This is the debut novel by author J.M. Link and she has certainly started with a bang! I loved it. Link’s aliens were unique and interesting and I really like the intrepid Victoria, the heroine of this book. Victoria and Aderus, our alien hero, did far more to keep my mind occupied and away from the war zone that was my back than my stacks of painkillers. Instead my mind was floating off into space with the very prickly Askara who were an anti social race with a tendency towards violence as displays of dominance and who are on the brink of annihilation due to war.
If you follow my reviews, you know that I love my aliens to be as unusual as possible. I need to get myself a mug saying “The weirder the better!”. And I like my aliens to be different in more than just appearance, so although the Askara race were definitely NOT just humans with pretty colour skin, their differences were more than just skin deep. Their culture was also worlds apart and I really enjoyed seeing Aderus and Victoria slowly getting to know one another an try and over come the massive culture shock.
Now, here comes the stinger. This ended in a cliffhanger! Most of this book showed Victoria integrating with the Askara and her developing and tumultuous relationship with their appointed leader Aderus. Then just as things started to heat up. BOOM. It was over. I was devastated and I am now anxiously awaiting the release of the next book so I can see the continuation and conclusion of Victoria and Aderus’relationship and then hopefully Link will contine with more Askara human romances afterwards.
This book won’t be for every one, however, if you like an intense alien romance with a fierce and non-human alien (although still humanoid, don’t worry no tentacles this time!) than you need to give this a try.
This is the debut novel by author J.M. Link and she has certainly started with a bang! I loved it. Link’s aliens were unique and interesting and I really like the intrepid Victoria, the heroine of this book. Victoria and Aderus, our alien hero, did far more to keep my mind occupied and away from the war zone that was my back than my stacks of painkillers. Instead my mind was floating off into space with the very prickly Askara who were an anti social race with a tendency towards violence as displays of dominance and who are on the brink of annihilation due to war.
If you follow my reviews, you know that I love my aliens to be as unusual as possible. I need to get myself a mug saying “The weirder the better!”. And I like my aliens to be different in more than just appearance, so although the Askara race were definitely NOT just humans with pretty colour skin, their differences were more than just skin deep. Their culture was also worlds apart and I really enjoyed seeing Aderus and Victoria slowly getting to know one another an try and over come the massive culture shock.
Now, here comes the stinger. This ended in a cliffhanger! Most of this book showed Victoria integrating with the Askara and her developing and tumultuous relationship with their appointed leader Aderus. Then just as things started to heat up. BOOM. It was over. I was devastated and I am now anxiously awaiting the release of the next book so I can see the continuation and conclusion of Victoria and Aderus’relationship and then hopefully Link will contine with more Askara human romances afterwards.
This book won’t be for every one, however, if you like an intense alien romance with a fierce and non-human alien (although still humanoid, don’t worry no tentacles this time!) than you need to give this a try.
October 12, 2018
10/5/18 reread
next?
next?
January 28, 2021
Really, really liked this, I only wish more happened in the larger plot line. Even still, if you love a slow-burn alien romance with very little drama and angst...download this now!
So, the positives:
1) Tori is great! At first, I read that she was a smart, sad, parent-less doctor and resisted the urge to roll my eyes at ALL THE TROPES. But the author won me over with her reasonableness and level-headedness. I mean, the girl got thrown into this ambassador role and was like, "I heart aliens," then..."I'mma smash an alien." Gotta respect it.
2) The back and forth analysis between human/alien species. Honestly, it felt a bit like an introductory anthropology class, as the characters constantly questioned their own biases about their own species' behaviors, anatomy, etc. and tried to understand one another. And THAT is what I loved. The both tried to understand, even if at moments they were angry, or frustrated or (in Tori's case), saddened by the other's response. Aderus is not at all the hulkish, violent alien (though he is both of those things)...I should say, he isn't only those things. He really thinks about Tori and her humanity and genuinely tries to see past it.
3) It's all so REASONABLE. I mean, Earthers and Askarans are feeling each other out. There is distrust. There's secrecy. There's a game of mental chess being played, and I'm here for it.
4) The author let aliens be aliens. She mentions this a lot in the author's note, and I love it. There is no humanizing the aliens. They think differently, act differently, have different forms of communication. I appreciate the careful writing by the author as she didn't make Aderus do something out of character for his species.
Negatives...
1) There is this big push to save Askara (uh, the title) but so little is being done between the humans and the Askarans beyond talking. I realize that this is, in fact, one thing I said I liked (above), but if I could have my cake and eat it too, I want more action with everything else. I felt like I was twiddling my thumbs following Tori here and there between ships.
2) Along with the action, I want more physical/emotional conflict between Tori and Aderus. They are both so reasonable and YES I SAID I LIKED THAT ABOVE (don't judge me!), but I mean...come on. Just yell and fight a little too, eh?
3) Alien anatomy. I mean...its
All in all, definitely worth a read if you love alien romances. It lacked a little with respect to world-building, but made up for it with character development and a nice slow burn.
So, the positives:
1) Tori is great! At first, I read that she was a smart, sad, parent-less doctor and resisted the urge to roll my eyes at ALL THE TROPES. But the author won me over with her reasonableness and level-headedness. I mean, the girl got thrown into this ambassador role and was like, "I heart aliens," then..."I'mma smash an alien." Gotta respect it.
2) The back and forth analysis between human/alien species. Honestly, it felt a bit like an introductory anthropology class, as the characters constantly questioned their own biases about their own species' behaviors, anatomy, etc. and tried to understand one another. And THAT is what I loved. The both tried to understand, even if at moments they were angry, or frustrated or (in Tori's case), saddened by the other's response. Aderus is not at all the hulkish, violent alien (though he is both of those things)...I should say, he isn't only those things. He really thinks about Tori and her humanity and genuinely tries to see past it.
3) It's all so REASONABLE. I mean, Earthers and Askarans are feeling each other out. There is distrust. There's secrecy. There's a game of mental chess being played, and I'm here for it.
4) The author let aliens be aliens. She mentions this a lot in the author's note, and I love it. There is no humanizing the aliens. They think differently, act differently, have different forms of communication. I appreciate the careful writing by the author as she didn't make Aderus do something out of character for his species.
Negatives...
1) There is this big push to save Askara (uh, the title) but so little is being done between the humans and the Askarans beyond talking. I realize that this is, in fact, one thing I said I liked (above), but if I could have my cake and eat it too, I want more action with everything else. I felt like I was twiddling my thumbs following Tori here and there between ships.
2) Along with the action, I want more physical/emotional conflict between Tori and Aderus. They are both so reasonable and YES I SAID I LIKED THAT ABOVE (don't judge me!), but I mean...come on. Just yell and fight a little too, eh?
3) Alien anatomy. I mean...its
All in all, definitely worth a read if you love alien romances. It lacked a little with respect to world-building, but made up for it with character development and a nice slow burn.
August 5, 2020
re-read
I must say I'm really liking this new cover!
But also, I had just as much fun reading this sci-fi alien romance the second time around- and still love the main characters
On to the next!
I must say I'm really liking this new cover!
But also, I had just as much fun reading this sci-fi alien romance the second time around- and still love the main characters
On to the next!
May 3, 2018
Very recently I have been laid out with really severe back problems. I literally couldn't do anything, even now tying shoe laces requires a quick rest and some painkillers afterwards to recover. But, there has been a little light in the recently dark miasma of pain. I couldn't do much more than lie down, so I had plenty of time to further develop my obsession with all things alien romance related. This is how Saving Askara wandered into my world.This is the debut novel by author J.M. Link and she has certainly started with a bang! I loved it. Link's aliens were unique and interesting and I really like the intrepid Victoria, the heroine of this book. Victoria and Aderus, our alien hero, did far more to keep my mind occupied and away from the war zone that was my back than my stacks of painkillers. Instead my mind was floating off into space with the very prickly Askara who were an anti social race with a tendency towards violence as displays of dominance and who are on the brink of annihilation due to war.
If you follow my reviews, you know that I love my aliens to be as unusual as possible. I need to get myself a mug saying "The weirder the better!". And I like my aliens to be different in more than just appearance, so although the Askara race were definitely NOT just humans with pretty colour skin, their differences were more than just skin deep. Their culture was also worlds apart and I really enjoyed seeing Aderus and Victoria slowly getting to know one another an try and over come the massive culture shock.
Now, here comes the stinger. This ended in a cliffhanger! Most of this book showed Victoria integrating with the Askara and her developing and tumultuous relationship with their appointed leader Aderus. Then just as things started to heat up. BOOM. It was over. I was devastated and I am now anxiously awaiting the release of the next book so I can see the continuation and conclusion of Victoria and Aderus'relationship and then hopefully Link will contine with more Askara human romances afterwards.
This book won't be for every one, however, if you like an intense alien romance with a fierce and non-human alien (although still humanoid, don't worry no tentacles this time!) than you need to give this a try.
*Reviewed by Suzanne❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
July 27, 2018
It starts slow... and stays that way...
Tori, our intrepid heroine, is surprised to find herself attracted to Aderus, one of the aliens whose damaged ship needs Earth’s help to repair. Aderus is reluctant to share much about his people with humans, but Tori is nothing like the females of his world, and he’s somehow drawn to her inquisitive and caring nature. However, despite their differences, Tori persuades Aderus to act on their feelings (at least her feelings), and everything changes.....
I was not a big fan of Tori, who borders on being TSTL. Or at least TATL (Too Annoying to Live). Even though Aderus is an extraterrestrial, Tori seems to expect him to understand all Her Feelings and wants him to talk about Their Relationship. When he doesn’t, she gets pouty and bitchy. In her defense, though, it's difficult to tell if Aderus is into her or not, since he's NOT HUMAN.....
And speaking of not communicating....you know next to nothing about Aderus, except that his people are solitary by nature... and seem rather cat-like (or is that redundant?). He doesn’t think, or want to talk, about his feelings... at all. And while he’s initially reluctant to have sex with Tori, he seems to get over his scruples pretty easily....Ha! Such a guy....
On a positive note, I’m glad that the author made an effort to have Aderus and his buddies’ appearance and culture completely alien (well...fairly alien, anyway). Too often in sci-fi romance, the ‘aliens’ aren’t....alien... at all. However, there needs to be a happy medium -- sure, aliens need to be non-human, but not so different that a relationship seems impossible....like it does here.
Also, there’s too much narrative, when it’s the characters’ words and actions that should be telling the story. Also there are plot holes a-plenty that are a huge distraction.
Tori, our intrepid heroine, is surprised to find herself attracted to Aderus, one of the aliens whose damaged ship needs Earth’s help to repair. Aderus is reluctant to share much about his people with humans, but Tori is nothing like the females of his world, and he’s somehow drawn to her inquisitive and caring nature. However, despite their differences, Tori persuades Aderus to act on their feelings (at least her feelings), and everything changes.....
I was not a big fan of Tori, who borders on being TSTL. Or at least TATL (Too Annoying to Live). Even though Aderus is an extraterrestrial, Tori seems to expect him to understand all Her Feelings and wants him to talk about Their Relationship. When he doesn’t, she gets pouty and bitchy. In her defense, though, it's difficult to tell if Aderus is into her or not, since he's NOT HUMAN.....
And speaking of not communicating....you know next to nothing about Aderus, except that his people are solitary by nature... and seem rather cat-like (or is that redundant?). He doesn’t think, or want to talk, about his feelings... at all. And while he’s initially reluctant to have sex with Tori, he seems to get over his scruples pretty easily....Ha! Such a guy....
On a positive note, I’m glad that the author made an effort to have Aderus and his buddies’ appearance and culture completely alien (well...fairly alien, anyway). Too often in sci-fi romance, the ‘aliens’ aren’t....alien... at all. However, there needs to be a happy medium -- sure, aliens need to be non-human, but not so different that a relationship seems impossible....like it does here.
Also, there’s too much narrative, when it’s the characters’ words and actions that should be telling the story. Also there are plot holes a-plenty that are a huge distraction.
February 7, 2023
If I could rate it lower, I would. That's how disgusting this was. The story set-up, the world building was actually really good and in all honesty, I thought characters set in such a background will at the very least, be interesting. Nope.
From the get-go, the lead dude was a dick, same-old same-old, all up-in-your-face aggressive, superior being shit, how misfortune brought them to deal with filths (aka humans), what a disgrace lowering themselves to ask for help from a disabled, backwater race and the most disgusting part was that the lead girl ate it all up like it was gold. She was like, "how may I serve you, master?", not in those exact words but you get it. Continuously insults her on a daily basis and her reply, how may I improve myself so that you approve? He doesn't deign her worthy to even touch or respond to, whereas she's off to her dreamland making babies with the alien. And the minute, he pays her one insignificant compliment, especially in the face of all other wrongs he's done before, she's like I'm blessed to be with you.
Pathetic and cliché characters every other incompetent writers write about for the advantage of appearing edgy or some such shit but in the end, get litter thrown at. At least by those readers with half a brain and without a mile long masochistic streak.
From the get-go, the lead dude was a dick, same-old same-old, all up-in-your-face aggressive, superior being shit, how misfortune brought them to deal with filths (aka humans), what a disgrace lowering themselves to ask for help from a disabled, backwater race and the most disgusting part was that the lead girl ate it all up like it was gold. She was like, "how may I serve you, master?", not in those exact words but you get it. Continuously insults her on a daily basis and her reply, how may I improve myself so that you approve? He doesn't deign her worthy to even touch or respond to, whereas she's off to her dreamland making babies with the alien. And the minute, he pays her one insignificant compliment, especially in the face of all other wrongs he's done before, she's like I'm blessed to be with you.
Pathetic and cliché characters every other incompetent writers write about for the advantage of appearing edgy or some such shit but in the end, get litter thrown at. At least by those readers with half a brain and without a mile long masochistic streak.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2020
So...
Despite the fact that my eyebrows were pretty much up to my hairline for most of this book (I can count the number of alien-based fiction romance books I've read on one hand), and especially as things got... anatomically challenging... this two-book series is the first I've managed to actually finish after what appears to be quite an extended book slump of mine, and I can say that I actually enjoyed it.
All I can say is that if you want to give this a try, you gotta keep an open mind for this one...
Despite the fact that my eyebrows were pretty much up to my hairline for most of this book (I can count the number of alien-based fiction romance books I've read on one hand), and especially as things got... anatomically challenging... this two-book series is the first I've managed to actually finish after what appears to be quite an extended book slump of mine, and I can say that I actually enjoyed it.
All I can say is that if you want to give this a try, you gotta keep an open mind for this one...
September 28, 2018
I love how alien the Askarians are, both physically and culturally. The author says that's what she wanted to do, and she hit it perfectly. There are shocks and misunderstandings, and the characters are very believable because of it. The romance takes a while to build up - as it should, in my opinion - and is no less steamy for it. I knew this was going to be a favourite a quarter of the way through and I'll be holding my breath for the rest of the series.
May 12, 2018
I'm on a roll!
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