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Time Captive #1
Paused
Their lives are on hold…
Dr. Valda Bashan wakes to the inexplicable—a biosphere where she and four others are the only occupants. Before this place, she possessed a life and a career. A computerized voice welcomes her to the biosphere and the job she’s apparently accepted. The terms are clear, she and her companions have to survive there for a year, and only when the time is up, will they be free.
Her companions trouble her on a deeply personal level…
Andreas, Hatch, Oz, and Dirk couldn’t be more different. Each man seems to be in the same predicament as her. No one remembers agreeing to the project or what task they have to complete. If they can’t work together, they may never be able to escape.
The first order of business: learn to get along. Though that task may be the most impossible of all, because everyone seems to be hiding secrets.
**Please note this is a reverse harem and the author suggests you always read the forward in her books. This is the first in a trilogy and the story will continue through future books.
***Previously published as Their Memoriam by Jazz Michaels, a pen name. Now re-edited and proofed for re-release.
Dr. Valda Bashan wakes to the inexplicable—a biosphere where she and four others are the only occupants. Before this place, she possessed a life and a career. A computerized voice welcomes her to the biosphere and the job she’s apparently accepted. The terms are clear, she and her companions have to survive there for a year, and only when the time is up, will they be free.
Her companions trouble her on a deeply personal level…
Andreas, Hatch, Oz, and Dirk couldn’t be more different. Each man seems to be in the same predicament as her. No one remembers agreeing to the project or what task they have to complete. If they can’t work together, they may never be able to escape.
The first order of business: learn to get along. Though that task may be the most impossible of all, because everyone seems to be hiding secrets.
**Please note this is a reverse harem and the author suggests you always read the forward in her books. This is the first in a trilogy and the story will continue through future books.
***Previously published as Their Memoriam by Jazz Michaels, a pen name. Now re-edited and proofed for re-release.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2020
131 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
Heather Long
260 books2,280 followersI love books. Not just a little bit, but a lot. Books were my best friends when I was growing up. Books didn’t care if I was new to a town or to a class. They were always there, my trustiest of companions. Until they turned on me and said I had to write them.
I can tell you that my own personal happily ever after included writing books. I’ve always said that an HEA is a work in progress. It’s true in my marriage, my friendships, and in my career. I am constantly nurturing my muse as we dive into new tales, new tropes, new characters and more.
After seventeen years back in Texas, we relocated to the Pacific Northwest in search of seasons, new experiences, and new geography. I can’t wait to discover what life (and my muse) have in store for me.
Maybe writing was always my destiny and romance my fate. After all, my grandmother wasn’t a fan of picture books and used to read me her Harlequin Romance novels.
Friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, friends to enemies to lovers, you name it, I love them and love to write them. I started with Earth Witches Aren’t Easy, the first in the Chance Monroe trilogy, but my characters and I have traveled a long way since I created that urban fantasy world.
One of the series I hear my readers recommend the most is the Untouchable series followed in quick succession by the Vandals, and that just delights me. No lie, whenever one of my readers brings up my wolves, I do a little a fist pump.
I’m active on social media, and I love hearing from readers. Feel free to tag me with a question about any of my books, or just say hi!
I can tell you that my own personal happily ever after included writing books. I’ve always said that an HEA is a work in progress. It’s true in my marriage, my friendships, and in my career. I am constantly nurturing my muse as we dive into new tales, new tropes, new characters and more.
After seventeen years back in Texas, we relocated to the Pacific Northwest in search of seasons, new experiences, and new geography. I can’t wait to discover what life (and my muse) have in store for me.
Maybe writing was always my destiny and romance my fate. After all, my grandmother wasn’t a fan of picture books and used to read me her Harlequin Romance novels.
Friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, friends to enemies to lovers, you name it, I love them and love to write them. I started with Earth Witches Aren’t Easy, the first in the Chance Monroe trilogy, but my characters and I have traveled a long way since I created that urban fantasy world.
One of the series I hear my readers recommend the most is the Untouchable series followed in quick succession by the Vandals, and that just delights me. No lie, whenever one of my readers brings up my wolves, I do a little a fist pump.
I’m active on social media, and I love hearing from readers. Feel free to tag me with a question about any of my books, or just say hi!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
April 7, 2021
This one was interesting it’s a trilogy and this is book one and this sets the stage with its mysterious and secretive vibe.
The parallel’s with this one are eerily surreal considering the pandemic status we are currently experiencing.
It’s a dystopian sci-fi reverse-harem and It takes place in the future sometime after a global pandemic.
According to the information available, it’s 2065 and Dr Valda Bashan awakens from her life-pod in a Biosphere with no memory of the past few years, she also has no idea where she is or even recalls volunteering for this current assignment.
There's very limited information available to her other than she’s the lead researcher and that there are four other occupants also scheduled to awaken within the next 24 hours.
Valda is a bit of a loner she’s a scientist and definitely not much of a people person.
Andreas Kenton’s is a psychologist who’s a tad hostile and distrustful.
Hatch Benedict ex-pilot and Royal Air Force he’s a comedian and all-around wise-guy.
Dr Oz Morgan is serious and straight to the point and finally, captain Dirk Rossi special forces who comes across all alpha male and is also extremely protective.
Each individual has made a video expressing their consent to be here but it’s also apparent there are still secrets still being kept.
It’s all a bit mysterious and extremely intriguing, The biosphere seems to be self-sustaining with a whole section dedicated to an ecosystem.
So many secrets and answers waiting to be revealed, But as much as I liked the premise here this does take some getting into.
There’s an awful lot of medical jargon and the conversations between characters also come across as very wordy which I wasn’t a fan of, I persevered here just because of how different this was.
It also moves very slowly not much happens till just over halfway then it does get a bit more interesting.
I liked this mostly because of the whole unique idea but wasn’t so sure regarding the whole execution of it which could have been better.
There’s far too much talking and philosophical debates for my liking and myself I would have just preferred more action overall and far less lofty words.
So why the low star rating well it was the overall language and tone used here that I couldn’t quite gel with, the writing itself is fine just very intellectual and I found that quite offputting.
Overall though this really was such a unique concept and for that reason alone I’m glad I picked it up and gave it a chance.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
September 24, 2020
I don't like mystery or suspense, I am too impatient. But any book in this genre that is able to hold my interest and I manage to finish deserves my 5 stars. But this one will get point five subtracted because there are somethings that I still can't make sense of and I am not going to blame my intelligence for failing to understand them. I would rather blame the author for not explaining them in the way that would be simpler for me, totally Heather's fault.
That being said, this was interesting and different from my normal go to RH. I thought it was a bit slow at times but that might just have been me in a hurry to get to the point beyond the mystery, like I said impatient.
I will be reading the next book because I need to know where the hell this is going.
That being said, this was interesting and different from my normal go to RH. I thought it was a bit slow at times but that might just have been me in a hurry to get to the point beyond the mystery, like I said impatient.
I will be reading the next book because I need to know where the hell this is going.
Read
November 10, 2021I'm DNFing this one... for now.
I really liked the other series by this author that I have read and decided to seek out her other books and came across this one.
I basically had to force myself to read this and only got to about 50% and finally called it quits. I shouldn't have to force myself to read a book, unless its for homework and thats a whole differenttorture story. Anywayys..
The MC wakes up and is confused. She has no memory of why she would be in a life pod thingamabob and why she's in the biodome thingamaplace. She quickly learns that in 24 hours the rest of her team is to wake up and she has to help them. Together they have to work see if they can make life in this manufactured environment sustainable, or something along those lines.
I'm gonna be honest... they use a lot of big words in this book. That makes me sound like an imbecile, and I swear I have a pretty good vocabulary and all that jazz, but the dialogue is so clinical, so unless you are fluent in science, you're probably gonna have a hard time following along (or its just me and clearly I'm not as smart as I thought I was).
I just lost interest really quick. Then we get to the part where the romance is introduced and that shitwasWEIRD. So, apparently, he set up her whole Reverse Harem harem when he found out they were gonna be sent to the biodome.
Yeah. I love Heather Long's other series (Savage Vandal) but I just couldn't get into this series. It's not bad, its just not for me.
I really liked the other series by this author that I have read and decided to seek out her other books and came across this one.
I basically had to force myself to read this and only got to about 50% and finally called it quits. I shouldn't have to force myself to read a book, unless its for homework and thats a whole different
The MC wakes up and is confused. She has no memory of why she would be in a life pod thingamabob and why she's in the biodome thingamaplace. She quickly learns that in 24 hours the rest of her team is to wake up and she has to help them. Together they have to work see if they can make life in this manufactured environment sustainable, or something along those lines.
I'm gonna be honest... they use a lot of big words in this book. That makes me sound like an imbecile, and I swear I have a pretty good vocabulary and all that jazz, but the dialogue is so clinical, so unless you are fluent in science, you're probably gonna have a hard time following along (or its just me and clearly I'm not as smart as I thought I was).
I just lost interest really quick. Then we get to the part where the romance is introduced and that shitwasWEIRD. So, apparently, he set up her whole Reverse Harem harem when he found out they were gonna be sent to the biodome.
Yeah. I love Heather Long's other series (Savage Vandal) but I just couldn't get into this series. It's not bad, its just not for me.
April 13, 2020
Their lives are on hold…
Dr. Valda Bashan wakes to the inexplicable—a biosphere where she and four others are the only occupants. Before this place, she possessed a life and a career. A computerized voice welcomes her to the biosphere and the job she’s apparently accepted. The terms are clear, she and her companions have to survive there for a year, and only when the time is up, will they be free.
Her companions trouble her on a deeply personal level…
Andreas, Hatch, Oz, and Dirk couldn’t be more different. Each man seems to be in the same predicament as her. No one remembers agreeing to the project or what task they have to complete. If they can’t work together, they may never be able to escape.
The first order of business: learn to get along. Though that task may be the most impossible of all, because everyone seems to be hiding secrets.
Oh my gosh i really don't know where to start with this book!
The story is freaking amazing and you never know what to expect!
I loved the complexity of the characters and the whole world building !
So many emotional ups and downs in this book and my gosh i was in tears!
I loved the fact that it was something new and something unexpected. The story sucked me in so much i truly didn't realize when i reached the end and it had me craving for more.
So excited about this book it was so new and refreshing!
I received a complimentary eARC. I am choosing to leave a fair and honest review.
Dr. Valda Bashan wakes to the inexplicable—a biosphere where she and four others are the only occupants. Before this place, she possessed a life and a career. A computerized voice welcomes her to the biosphere and the job she’s apparently accepted. The terms are clear, she and her companions have to survive there for a year, and only when the time is up, will they be free.
Her companions trouble her on a deeply personal level…
Andreas, Hatch, Oz, and Dirk couldn’t be more different. Each man seems to be in the same predicament as her. No one remembers agreeing to the project or what task they have to complete. If they can’t work together, they may never be able to escape.
The first order of business: learn to get along. Though that task may be the most impossible of all, because everyone seems to be hiding secrets.
Oh my gosh i really don't know where to start with this book!
The story is freaking amazing and you never know what to expect!
I loved the complexity of the characters and the whole world building !
So many emotional ups and downs in this book and my gosh i was in tears!
I loved the fact that it was something new and something unexpected. The story sucked me in so much i truly didn't realize when i reached the end and it had me craving for more.
So excited about this book it was so new and refreshing!
I received a complimentary eARC. I am choosing to leave a fair and honest review.
September 10, 2020
Captivating, Twisting Sci-fi RH!
This was such an awesome read
and eerily on point for a 2020 Pandemic!
Paused introduces us to Dr. Valda BASHAN, the beautiful and brilliant daughter of the researcher scientist held as a scapegoat for a worldwide pandemic some decades prior. With the world held in the grips of panic and fear, birth rates plummeted and DNA shredded, the world turned its back on science and in particular, Valda.
Valda awakens alone in Biosphere One with no understanding of her mission, no memory of the last three years, and only a video of her past self telling her she signed up of her own volition to reassure her.
Less than 24 hours later, the four other mysterious crew members, Dirk, Oz, Andreas and Hatch, begin waking, and Valda must attempt to overcome her own barriers and solve the mysteries science has presented her with, all while slowly realizing perhaps nothing is what it seems.
Long wrote a fascinating science fiction romance filled with interesting characters, and I found myself chasing the elusive truth right along side Valda and the men. Where are they, how did they get there and who is REALLY in control of Biosphere One?
I never saw the twists coming, and I can't wait to read Rewind and Fast Forward!
This was such an awesome read
and eerily on point for a 2020 Pandemic!
Paused introduces us to Dr. Valda BASHAN, the beautiful and brilliant daughter of the researcher scientist held as a scapegoat for a worldwide pandemic some decades prior. With the world held in the grips of panic and fear, birth rates plummeted and DNA shredded, the world turned its back on science and in particular, Valda.
Valda awakens alone in Biosphere One with no understanding of her mission, no memory of the last three years, and only a video of her past self telling her she signed up of her own volition to reassure her.
Less than 24 hours later, the four other mysterious crew members, Dirk, Oz, Andreas and Hatch, begin waking, and Valda must attempt to overcome her own barriers and solve the mysteries science has presented her with, all while slowly realizing perhaps nothing is what it seems.
Long wrote a fascinating science fiction romance filled with interesting characters, and I found myself chasing the elusive truth right along side Valda and the men. Where are they, how did they get there and who is REALLY in control of Biosphere One?
I never saw the twists coming, and I can't wait to read Rewind and Fast Forward!
April 14, 2020
First "Paused" is a reverse harem, re-edited and re-proofed re-release of author Heather Long's pen name Jazz Michaels. All that said this is a very intriguing read.
Dr. Valda Bashan wakes up in a biosphere and has no idea how she got there. Her four companions are Andreas, Hatch, Oz and Dirk and as completely different from each other as could be. They too do not remember agreeing to the project or what it is they are suppose to be doing there. The only thing they can do is work together to try to escape - and that includes Valda.
Valda is a bit older for a romance heroine, nice change by the way, and that gives her a mature depth. Well, that and the fact that her parents were scientists, as is she, means she has a brain. One thing I have noticed in most RHs, the men usually seem to be in agreement with the whole situation, but these guys deal with jealousy. Adds a bit of drama and spice.
If you are looking for a good, steamy, sci-fy romance with an unexpected and rather frightening twist at the end then get your hands on Paused.
Dr. Valda Bashan wakes up in a biosphere and has no idea how she got there. Her four companions are Andreas, Hatch, Oz and Dirk and as completely different from each other as could be. They too do not remember agreeing to the project or what it is they are suppose to be doing there. The only thing they can do is work together to try to escape - and that includes Valda.
Valda is a bit older for a romance heroine, nice change by the way, and that gives her a mature depth. Well, that and the fact that her parents were scientists, as is she, means she has a brain. One thing I have noticed in most RHs, the men usually seem to be in agreement with the whole situation, but these guys deal with jealousy. Adds a bit of drama and spice.
If you are looking for a good, steamy, sci-fy romance with an unexpected and rather frightening twist at the end then get your hands on Paused.
April 14, 2020
When I started reading this I immediately thought, how apropos, a pandemic. I knew this book had been written a few years ago and once again marveled at how Heather Long can weave a tale that enthralls from the very first page.
From the first page I was intrigued and as each of the characters awaken from life pods my curiosity grew. Beginning with Valda the apparent Team Lead, and the next day her team. Each waking with the same needs but also differences.
I loved the vivid descriptions of the Biosphere and the gradual settling into a team rather than individuals. Although it took Valda longer to rach that point.
There is attraction between them that is undeniable but still no clue as the purpose of the sphere.
I have to say I wasn't prepared for the answers given and was truly shocked but not appalled. There's lots of suspense, intrigue, secrets and sizzling romance.
I can't wait to see what happens next!
From the first page I was intrigued and as each of the characters awaken from life pods my curiosity grew. Beginning with Valda the apparent Team Lead, and the next day her team. Each waking with the same needs but also differences.
I loved the vivid descriptions of the Biosphere and the gradual settling into a team rather than individuals. Although it took Valda longer to rach that point.
There is attraction between them that is undeniable but still no clue as the purpose of the sphere.
I have to say I wasn't prepared for the answers given and was truly shocked but not appalled. There's lots of suspense, intrigue, secrets and sizzling romance.
I can't wait to see what happens next!
April 14, 2020
I’d say the first thing you should know (and the author is VERY up front about this) is that this is definitely a book one. I am anxiously waiting for what comes next, that’s for sure! Trying not to give any spoilers, Valda Bashan is…somewhere…along with four hunky men. Andreas, Hatch, Oz and Dirk are an enigma to her but strangely enough, they are all devoted to one another. I’d say that this first story sets up the overall storyline and I am hoping to continue this very wild ride and find out what is goin’ on! It is a very sexy story and each of the men is a different personality. Somehow, Valda rules it all. Action, suspense, intrigue, sexy times, futuristic technology – it has it all – and it is only book 1. Can’t wait to read more.
April 14, 2020
Now talk about different and you are looking for it just stop right there. This is also the first one in a trilogy so I was glad for that. Dr Valda sure has a challenge especially when she does not remember it. She does have other that are in this job with her and the 3 and her have to figure it out or else. Everyone also has a huge task in this since secrets seem to be the operation of the day and that can not continue or else. You might get distracted by the steam that escapes at times but the twists could make you lopsided. Never fear though after you are shocked there will be more to come.
October 18, 2025
A really interesting premise so far, with a decidedly more unique setting for a reverse harem story. Valda is also a refreshing main character, being quite cerebral and aged in her mid or late 30s (and acting like it).
I thought the story was going to go in one direction based off of the blurb, then a completely different one while reading, and then I was pretty shocked by the cliffhanger ending to this first book.
Side note: the covers are... odd. I just double checked and the last one in the trilogy is the only one that actually looks like how Valda is described.
I thought the story was going to go in one direction based off of the blurb, then a completely different one while reading, and then I was pretty shocked by the cliffhanger ending to this first book.
Side note: the covers are... odd. I just double checked and the last one in the trilogy is the only one that actually looks like how Valda is described.
April 15, 2020
LOVED this story! It had me wondering at first then as I read more, I wanted more and couldn't put it down. It's different, it's funny, it's got heat, it's got surprises oh boy does it so be prepared for them. The men are all different and so's she and as always it works, you may not be sure it will but it does. You're left wanting the next book, but come on be honest when you saw book 1 you already knew that, but I know it'll be well worth it!
March 28, 2020
Paused (Time Captive Book 1) Kindle Edition
by Heather Long
Thank you to Heather Long for the complimentary eARC. I am choosing to leave a fair and honest review.
Paused is the perfect book to read right now. It begins with a chillingly familiar scenario of a deadly virus outbreak. Valda, the 40 year old daughter of the woman blamed for the pandemic, wakes to find herself in a Biosphere, with little to no memory if agreeing to be there and no idea of why. She is a nice change to your average heroine. Four men are locked in the Biosphere with her: Andreas, Dirk, Hatch and Oz. In many RH's, the men seem to constantly get along. In Paused, there is a friction of jealousy. The way the men fit in Valda's life, as her heart, mind, body and soul is absolutely brilliant.
The beginning has a certain echo to Octavia Butler's Dawn (Xenogenesis book 1), where a woman wakes up years after a nuclear Holocaust.
Much like the Butler classic, this story can work without the romance element. That makes the story so much better, must more complex and the twist at the end all the more shocking. The final twist will leave you swiping back to see what you missed. And then you will realize how wrong you were and how the many clues were laid out.
The steamy moments are exactly that, steamy as all get out. But the story doesn't use these moments as a crutch. They are more like punctuation marks, marking the beginning or the ending of moments. These are moments of pleasure and of wonder.
This was originally written under Ms. Long's pen name when she wanted to try something new. She truly succeeds with this amazingly complex and unique book.
5 stars out of 5
https://www.amazon.com/Paused-Time-Ca...
by Heather Long
Thank you to Heather Long for the complimentary eARC. I am choosing to leave a fair and honest review.
Paused is the perfect book to read right now. It begins with a chillingly familiar scenario of a deadly virus outbreak. Valda, the 40 year old daughter of the woman blamed for the pandemic, wakes to find herself in a Biosphere, with little to no memory if agreeing to be there and no idea of why. She is a nice change to your average heroine. Four men are locked in the Biosphere with her: Andreas, Dirk, Hatch and Oz. In many RH's, the men seem to constantly get along. In Paused, there is a friction of jealousy. The way the men fit in Valda's life, as her heart, mind, body and soul is absolutely brilliant.
The beginning has a certain echo to Octavia Butler's Dawn (Xenogenesis book 1), where a woman wakes up years after a nuclear Holocaust.
Much like the Butler classic, this story can work without the romance element. That makes the story so much better, must more complex and the twist at the end all the more shocking. The final twist will leave you swiping back to see what you missed. And then you will realize how wrong you were and how the many clues were laid out.
The steamy moments are exactly that, steamy as all get out. But the story doesn't use these moments as a crutch. They are more like punctuation marks, marking the beginning or the ending of moments. These are moments of pleasure and of wonder.
This was originally written under Ms. Long's pen name when she wanted to try something new. She truly succeeds with this amazingly complex and unique book.
5 stars out of 5
https://www.amazon.com/Paused-Time-Ca...
May 27, 2020
Read and reviewed previously as Their Memoriam
Their Memoriam by Jazz Michaels
Valda Bashan woke up in a biosphere with no memory of the last 5 years and no idea why or what she was supposed to do other than oversee the waking of the four men with her and be their team leader on a mostly unknown project. The project must be completed successfully before they would be released. Valda is a scientist, not a 'people person', not a team leader, and the four men on her team present a challenge from the moment they awaken. Andreas, Hatch, Oz, and Dirk are very different from one another and from Valda and often clash. No one seems to know why they are there but they must find a way to work together if they are to survive. However, Valda feels that something just isn't right. She doesn't fully trust the men even though they have all told her that they are enthralled with her, that they want her. It seems that they may have secrets or maybe she's just looking for trouble. She doesn't realize how very important this project actually is.
Their Memoriam is nothing like any RH I have ever come across. It's scientific, intellectual; possibly too much at times. I had a hard time getting into the book with the scientific and technical aspects. It took away from the characters and their story I stayed with it and it turned out to be worthwhile because about halfway through the characters take over and the story starts to come together nicely. Valda is an atypical female for an RH. She's attractive, brilliant, and can be witty but she's suspicious, critical, and antisocial. She prefers the seclusion of her lab to time spent with others. Luckily this changes a little as the story progresses. I have mixed feelings about the men. Dirk is perfection, everything I want in a man. Hatch is fun and entertaining. Oz is compassionate. Andreas is displeasing. While I didn't connect with Hatch or Oz, I disliked Andreas. His behavior was offputting through the majority of the book. As a huge fan of RH, I need the men to really step it up in the next biosphere for me to believe that they deserve a share of Valda.
I wasn't sold on the first half of this book. It dragged and didn't give me a reason to care about the characters. However, that all changes. Certain discoveries are made, secrets revealed, and the relationships become more legitimate. The is so much more depth to this story that first appears; so much more love, so much more heartache. It's surprising. It's tragic. It's hopeful. I look forward to another chance, more time in the biosphere.
Their Memoriam by Jazz Michaels
Valda Bashan woke up in a biosphere with no memory of the last 5 years and no idea why or what she was supposed to do other than oversee the waking of the four men with her and be their team leader on a mostly unknown project. The project must be completed successfully before they would be released. Valda is a scientist, not a 'people person', not a team leader, and the four men on her team present a challenge from the moment they awaken. Andreas, Hatch, Oz, and Dirk are very different from one another and from Valda and often clash. No one seems to know why they are there but they must find a way to work together if they are to survive. However, Valda feels that something just isn't right. She doesn't fully trust the men even though they have all told her that they are enthralled with her, that they want her. It seems that they may have secrets or maybe she's just looking for trouble. She doesn't realize how very important this project actually is.
Their Memoriam is nothing like any RH I have ever come across. It's scientific, intellectual; possibly too much at times. I had a hard time getting into the book with the scientific and technical aspects. It took away from the characters and their story I stayed with it and it turned out to be worthwhile because about halfway through the characters take over and the story starts to come together nicely. Valda is an atypical female for an RH. She's attractive, brilliant, and can be witty but she's suspicious, critical, and antisocial. She prefers the seclusion of her lab to time spent with others. Luckily this changes a little as the story progresses. I have mixed feelings about the men. Dirk is perfection, everything I want in a man. Hatch is fun and entertaining. Oz is compassionate. Andreas is displeasing. While I didn't connect with Hatch or Oz, I disliked Andreas. His behavior was offputting through the majority of the book. As a huge fan of RH, I need the men to really step it up in the next biosphere for me to believe that they deserve a share of Valda.
I wasn't sold on the first half of this book. It dragged and didn't give me a reason to care about the characters. However, that all changes. Certain discoveries are made, secrets revealed, and the relationships become more legitimate. The is so much more depth to this story that first appears; so much more love, so much more heartache. It's surprising. It's tragic. It's hopeful. I look forward to another chance, more time in the biosphere.
April 26, 2020
OMG! The suspense
This book was SO much more gripping than I expected. I started and could not stop. By the half way point I started writing down thoughts already knowing I would be leaving a 5 star review. I also started routinely checking the % complete growing more anxious as it approached the end, because I would never be ready for this to end.
Chapter 14...OMG the suspense.
Chapter 15...heart rate is climbing. You just know something really good or really bad is about to happen.
Chapter 16 and 17...hold your breath. I almost didn't want to know.
Chapter 18...DAMN
Every word, people. I'm someone who can lose interest pretty easily and find myself skimming through. That didn't happen once. In fact I found myself several times purposely slowing down just to make it last longer.
I had so many questions along the way. Where are they? Are they in space? On another planet? On Earth? Has it been 3 years, 5 years, 100 years? Is there truly no way out? Some of these you will get answers to and the answers come with a whole new set of questions.
My recommendation, don't think to hard on this. One-click this book. You're going to want to own this one.
This book was SO much more gripping than I expected. I started and could not stop. By the half way point I started writing down thoughts already knowing I would be leaving a 5 star review. I also started routinely checking the % complete growing more anxious as it approached the end, because I would never be ready for this to end.
Chapter 14...OMG the suspense.
Chapter 15...heart rate is climbing. You just know something really good or really bad is about to happen.
Chapter 16 and 17...hold your breath. I almost didn't want to know.
Chapter 18...DAMN
Every word, people. I'm someone who can lose interest pretty easily and find myself skimming through. That didn't happen once. In fact I found myself several times purposely slowing down just to make it last longer.
I had so many questions along the way. Where are they? Are they in space? On another planet? On Earth? Has it been 3 years, 5 years, 100 years? Is there truly no way out? Some of these you will get answers to and the answers come with a whole new set of questions.
My recommendation, don't think to hard on this. One-click this book. You're going to want to own this one.
June 3, 2025
4.5 stars. this review is for the 3 books in the trilogy
I'm new to Heather Long but what I've just read has left a lasting impression.
Valda and her men have a storyline unlike anything I've read before. The mystery and intrigue and yes, even the science, are written in a way that pulls you firmly in, even when you have no idea what's going on.
I won't give any spoilers but this was unique in several ways. Sci-Fi reverse harem is already pretty niche, but then you add a mature heroine, a memory-loss/AI scenario and 4 devoted guys with very different skill sets and you get a story that sets out to do something different and actually achieves it.
The writing style and storyline are definitely more "high-brow" than most RH readers are used to. For me, that wasn't a negative. I enjoy stories that are more plot than p0rn, and the writing here was top class.
Would I recommend this trilogy? Only to those willing to read something a bit different, who aren't put off by an excess of scientific terminology and won't mind a flawed heroine who thankfully gets better with each book.
If you're looking for a smutty read, this definitely isn't that but I still believe it's worth it for the romance with the guys alone, whose devotion actually blew me away.
my rating for the series:
Book 1: 4.5 stars
Book 2: 4.5 stars
Book 3: 4 stars (with a too short but still perfect ending/epilogue)
I'm new to Heather Long but what I've just read has left a lasting impression.
Valda and her men have a storyline unlike anything I've read before. The mystery and intrigue and yes, even the science, are written in a way that pulls you firmly in, even when you have no idea what's going on.
I won't give any spoilers but this was unique in several ways. Sci-Fi reverse harem is already pretty niche, but then you add a mature heroine, a memory-loss/AI scenario and 4 devoted guys with very different skill sets and you get a story that sets out to do something different and actually achieves it.
The writing style and storyline are definitely more "high-brow" than most RH readers are used to. For me, that wasn't a negative. I enjoy stories that are more plot than p0rn, and the writing here was top class.
Would I recommend this trilogy? Only to those willing to read something a bit different, who aren't put off by an excess of scientific terminology and won't mind a flawed heroine who thankfully gets better with each book.
If you're looking for a smutty read, this definitely isn't that but I still believe it's worth it for the romance with the guys alone, whose devotion actually blew me away.
my rating for the series:
Book 1: 4.5 stars
Book 2: 4.5 stars
Book 3: 4 stars (with a too short but still perfect ending/epilogue)
September 20, 2020
Paused is the first book in the Time Captive Trilogy and was a fantastic read!
Dr. Valda Bashan wakes up in a biosphere with no no idea where she is and any recollection of how she got there. She quickly realizes she has no memories from the past few years. The only thing she has is a video of herself telling her she signed up on her own accord. She quickly finds she is the team leader and has a team of 4 with her who are set to wake up in 24 hours.
Her team includes Andreas, Hatch, Oz and Dirk. They each have a different specialty and bring something extra to the table. Valda is leery of the men at first while trying to work with them to figure out what is going on around them. As the story unfolds you learn more about Valda, the guys, and the biosphere but something still seems "off."
This is the first sci-fy RH I've read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's interesting, steamy, and left my mind reeling! Pick up Paused and dive into the world that is Valda and her guys. You're going to love it!
Dr. Valda Bashan wakes up in a biosphere with no no idea where she is and any recollection of how she got there. She quickly realizes she has no memories from the past few years. The only thing she has is a video of herself telling her she signed up on her own accord. She quickly finds she is the team leader and has a team of 4 with her who are set to wake up in 24 hours.
Her team includes Andreas, Hatch, Oz and Dirk. They each have a different specialty and bring something extra to the table. Valda is leery of the men at first while trying to work with them to figure out what is going on around them. As the story unfolds you learn more about Valda, the guys, and the biosphere but something still seems "off."
This is the first sci-fy RH I've read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's interesting, steamy, and left my mind reeling! Pick up Paused and dive into the world that is Valda and her guys. You're going to love it!
April 20, 2020
Possibly should have timed this read a bit better - set in the aftermath of a pandemic!
Valda, is the daughter of the person blamed for the pandemic. She is older than our usual heroines (over 40) and that's a great refresher. Nice to read something with the heroine not some 20 something.
Valda awakes in a sealed biosphere with 4 males. None of them remember volunteering to participate in any so-called experiments. They have to survive a year together before they are allowed to leave. Andreas, Dirk, Hatch and Oz are all very individual characters, each with their own personalities and quirks (and secrets!) However, unlike other RH stories, these boys may all get on with each other usually but they do have to deal with jealousy - there doesn't seem to be any agreement between them that they'll just with the RH arrangement!
Plenty of twists along the way and you will probably find yourself scrolling backwards to find where you missed a clue or two!
Valda, is the daughter of the person blamed for the pandemic. She is older than our usual heroines (over 40) and that's a great refresher. Nice to read something with the heroine not some 20 something.
Valda awakes in a sealed biosphere with 4 males. None of them remember volunteering to participate in any so-called experiments. They have to survive a year together before they are allowed to leave. Andreas, Dirk, Hatch and Oz are all very individual characters, each with their own personalities and quirks (and secrets!) However, unlike other RH stories, these boys may all get on with each other usually but they do have to deal with jealousy - there doesn't seem to be any agreement between them that they'll just with the RH arrangement!
Plenty of twists along the way and you will probably find yourself scrolling backwards to find where you missed a clue or two!
July 20, 2020
Loved this book
The story took a while to catch me, but oh my…but once I got into the story, I was hooked. I love the twists and was SO shocked. I love how vivid Heather described every aspect of the building and the gardens. And how the team took time to settle and get to know Valda at her own pace. The attraction between Valda and the guys is clear from the start, but I love that they took their time to explore and didn’t jump straight into relationships.
Action, suspense, intrigue, sexy times, futuristic technology…this book has it all and I love it.
I can't wait to see what happens next
The story took a while to catch me, but oh my…but once I got into the story, I was hooked. I love the twists and was SO shocked. I love how vivid Heather described every aspect of the building and the gardens. And how the team took time to settle and get to know Valda at her own pace. The attraction between Valda and the guys is clear from the start, but I love that they took their time to explore and didn’t jump straight into relationships.
Action, suspense, intrigue, sexy times, futuristic technology…this book has it all and I love it.
I can't wait to see what happens next
April 19, 2020
Another great story and immersive experience from one of my favorite authors. There was suspense and sexual tension woven into the fabric of this storyline. It kept me guessing pretty much the whole time. The story takes place in a biosphere years after a plague that caused major harm to humans including genetic damage that affected the birth rate. I was hooked pretty much right at the beginning. The characters were interesting and unique but somehow they fit together perfectly. I can't wait to continue this story and see where it leads
April 27, 2020
The plot of this book is quite clever. A scientist wakes up with no memory in a dome without any windows or doors. After 24 hours alone 4 others wake up one after another. They claim they don't have memories but she is the only one with missing 3 years of her life.
Each man is seemingly randomly chosen for the experiment. Plot twist, they are not and nothing is what it seems.
I liked the scientific objectivity in the book, the calmness invested in assessing the circumstances by the characters.
It's a good book, well written and the next book is added into my to be read shelf.
Each man is seemingly randomly chosen for the experiment. Plot twist, they are not and nothing is what it seems.
I liked the scientific objectivity in the book, the calmness invested in assessing the circumstances by the characters.
It's a good book, well written and the next book is added into my to be read shelf.
January 28, 2025
A Suspenseful Ride
Valda awakens in the biosphere with broken memories of the past several years. What is her mission? Where is she? Who are the four men that are part of her team? All these questions repeat throughout the book as we dive into science beyond my understanding. Is the science sound? I don't know. That's why it's science fiction. The plot is swift, the characters intriguing, and the twists and turns delicious. One of the best sci-fi books I've read in years. The fact that it's rh is a fun bonus. Recommend to fans of Andy Weir!
Valda awakens in the biosphere with broken memories of the past several years. What is her mission? Where is she? Who are the four men that are part of her team? All these questions repeat throughout the book as we dive into science beyond my understanding. Is the science sound? I don't know. That's why it's science fiction. The plot is swift, the characters intriguing, and the twists and turns delicious. One of the best sci-fi books I've read in years. The fact that it's rh is a fun bonus. Recommend to fans of Andy Weir!
May 1, 2020
This took me awhile to get into and there was a lot of scientific vocabulary involving research that was difficult to follow at times... but I promise once you get past that it is so worth it. This is definitely a more unique story line that hasn't been overdone. Unfortunately I can't say much or the whole thing will be spoiled. It definitely ends on a bit of a cliffhanger and the second book is not currently available!
March 3, 2025
fascinating premise that is ultimately revealed at the end. i will say, the transition into romantic interest with each guy doesn’t seem suuuuper smooth. also don’t love how the FMC can seemingly orgasm multiple times from a strong breeze lol. but definitely will continue to see how the rest of the trilogy is handled.
April 18, 2020
I did not see that ending coming. This story is fantastic. Valda is a great heroine, I liked her scientific and logical approach. The guys are great and I like how they all prioritize Valda. I am looking forward to book 2!
June 16, 2020
Mind blown
This book was wow. It was something I wasn’t expecting and that made me fall in love with it. I didn’t see that ending coming and it blew my mind and I can’t wait to start the next book. I loved the Characters and I’m excited to see how this plays out.
This book was wow. It was something I wasn’t expecting and that made me fall in love with it. I didn’t see that ending coming and it blew my mind and I can’t wait to start the next book. I loved the Characters and I’m excited to see how this plays out.
February 4, 2021
Good story
I enjoyed this story a lot. It had such a good storyline.
The story surprised me with a twist and I couldn’t put it down. Kept me on the edge my sit to to see what happens next. Downloading next one. Good writer
I enjoyed this story a lot. It had such a good storyline.
The story surprised me with a twist and I couldn’t put it down. Kept me on the edge my sit to to see what happens next. Downloading next one. Good writer
February 7, 2025
The science language was so fun to read about in a fictional setting. The characters were unbearable; individually and as a group. The ending was strange and I don’t see myself reading the next book.
April 15, 2020
Brilliant!
What an incredible concept! And then a brilliant twist in the plot right at the end. Thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next one!
What an incredible concept! And then a brilliant twist in the plot right at the end. Thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next one!
April 17, 2020
Definitely an interesting read. This story is unique and different. I enjoyed the story. I was captivated by the characters.
April 21, 2020
Intrigued
This book was both interesting and intriguing. Totally unique and unlike anything I have read before. I am most definitely looking forward to reading more
This book was both interesting and intriguing. Totally unique and unlike anything I have read before. I am most definitely looking forward to reading more
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