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Veredian Chronicles #1
Escaping Fate
Enslaved. Exploited. Hunted.
Born and raised on a slavers ship, Amalia is one of the rare survivors of the Veredian race. Like all Veredian females, Amalia possesses a unique psi ability which makes her the prized pet of her master Gruuk. She escapes to Xelix Prime, a warrior planet where slavery is prohibited. There, she participates in the Fastening to select one of countless hopeful warriors as her mate and protector. Except, she’s now torn between two cousins.
For Khel and Lhor, time is ticking. Like most Xelixian males, they are Tainted. On top of marking them as a lesser class of society, the disease mars their bodies and reduces their lifespan to less than forty years. Only a compatible female can slow or revert the Taint. But the females at the Fastening shun the males with visible symptoms. Until Amalia…
Between Gruuk’s dogged pursuit, deadly rivalries, assassins and corrupted nobles, can the cousins keep Amalia safe or will their respective feelings for her tear them apart?
This MFM novel is a constant toe-curling, action-packed thriller. It is standalone with no cliffhanger.
The Veredian Chronicles is the perfect read for fans of Nalini Singh and M.K. Eidem, pursuing their tradition of strong heroines, treacherous political intrigues, and the twists and turns you didn't see coming.
LOSING AMALIA BONUS SCENE INCLUDED!
Born and raised on a slavers ship, Amalia is one of the rare survivors of the Veredian race. Like all Veredian females, Amalia possesses a unique psi ability which makes her the prized pet of her master Gruuk. She escapes to Xelix Prime, a warrior planet where slavery is prohibited. There, she participates in the Fastening to select one of countless hopeful warriors as her mate and protector. Except, she’s now torn between two cousins.
For Khel and Lhor, time is ticking. Like most Xelixian males, they are Tainted. On top of marking them as a lesser class of society, the disease mars their bodies and reduces their lifespan to less than forty years. Only a compatible female can slow or revert the Taint. But the females at the Fastening shun the males with visible symptoms. Until Amalia…
Between Gruuk’s dogged pursuit, deadly rivalries, assassins and corrupted nobles, can the cousins keep Amalia safe or will their respective feelings for her tear them apart?
This MFM novel is a constant toe-curling, action-packed thriller. It is standalone with no cliffhanger.
The Veredian Chronicles is the perfect read for fans of Nalini Singh and M.K. Eidem, pursuing their tradition of strong heroines, treacherous political intrigues, and the twists and turns you didn't see coming.
LOSING AMALIA BONUS SCENE INCLUDED!
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2017
532 people are currently reading
1930 people want to read
About the author
Regine Abel
86 books2,662 followersUSA Today bestselling author Regine Abel is a fantasy, paranormal, and sci-fi junkie. Anything with a bit of magic, a touch of the unusual, and a lot of romance will have her jumping for joy. She loves writing hot alien warriors meeting no-nonsense, kick-ass heroines. Her novels are steamy, action-packed, and with the twists and turns you never saw coming.
Before devoting herself as a full-time writer, Regine had surrendered to her other passions: music and video games! After a decade working as a Sound Engineer in movie dubbing and live concerts, Regine became a professional Game Designer and Creative Director, a career that has led her from her home in Canada to the US and various countries in Europe and Asia.
Before devoting herself as a full-time writer, Regine had surrendered to her other passions: music and video games! After a decade working as a Sound Engineer in movie dubbing and live concerts, Regine became a professional Game Designer and Creative Director, a career that has led her from her home in Canada to the US and various countries in Europe and Asia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
May 30, 2017
Regine Abel is an author to keep in your sights! This is my 2nd book by her in 2 weeks. Her writing flows off the pages and in to your hearts.
Escaping fate is the story of Amalia a very brave alien woman. Regine Abel weaves a tale of her heroics, hilarious antics and at times seductress. While the story is told in 3 point of views, if I explain more I will give away too much.
The story had me laughing, at times crying (which I hate doing) and even screaming at the situation. If a book can cause that much of a reaction that is 100% my definition of a 5 star book. I am enamored with these characters and cannot wait to find out what else happens. I will read anything this lady writes! 5 stars from Reviews by Reds!
Escaping fate is the story of Amalia a very brave alien woman. Regine Abel weaves a tale of her heroics, hilarious antics and at times seductress. While the story is told in 3 point of views, if I explain more I will give away too much.
The story had me laughing, at times crying (which I hate doing) and even screaming at the situation. If a book can cause that much of a reaction that is 100% my definition of a 5 star book. I am enamored with these characters and cannot wait to find out what else happens. I will read anything this lady writes! 5 stars from Reviews by Reds!
dnf
August 7, 2020DNF at 40%
I thought this would be about a fierce warrior fighter (look at that cover!)
But it was disappointing and I disliked far too many occurrences, intricacies, small details that I finally just called it quits.
Things I disliked:
-when Amalia is caught innocently hacking in the military database to play a small joke on the hero's cousin, the hero is willing and ready to throw her in jail while they investigate what she looked at and whether she's an enemy. He's already started absorbing the hormone necessary to his survival from her (without asking first!!!). And he doesn't even argue or plead or anything. If not for someone else's intervention, she would've been immediately locked up. Not even taken in by him, he called some lackey to get her. Real manly. Real mate-like.
-He distrusts her tech powers and even considers her a threat for a minute. But when she says she doesn't want a career using her powers, he thinks, "what a waste." Yeah, I bet she could be of real use to you huh, hypocrite?
-Asshole H is willing to let his cousin die of the very same affliction that he's taking her hormones for, and he's too jealous and angry and resentful to even consider a way to share her or her precious hormone. What a heartless, selfish man.
-The heroine asks her hero's cousin to train her. The cousin rebukes her and lectures her about not going behind her mate's back if she knows he would disapprove of her learning to fight because it would hurt his stupid, fragile male ego. Fuck the hero and the hero's cousin here. Can someone please place the heroine first and consider what she wants and needs to feel safe and secure in and of herself? Not in this very obviously patriarchal society.
-The hero's cousin then says that it's inappropriate for her to touch him, it's disrespectful to her mate. BUT. That's the way of HER people. Why is she forced to listen and follow their societal rules, yet they get to benefit from her biology and psi powers? They get to suck the oxytocin from her and she has to fall in line with the military and laws and expectations? FUCK. THAT.
Do I read to much into the details of the book? Or perhaps blow something from micro to macro too easily? Perhaps. But I read a lot of reviews that made me excited to read this book and spoke of how awesome it was. oversold, it was.
I thought this would be about a fierce warrior fighter (look at that cover!)
But it was disappointing and I disliked far too many occurrences, intricacies, small details that I finally just called it quits.
Things I disliked:
-when Amalia is caught innocently hacking in the military database to play a small joke on the hero's cousin, the hero is willing and ready to throw her in jail while they investigate what she looked at and whether she's an enemy. He's already started absorbing the hormone necessary to his survival from her (without asking first!!!). And he doesn't even argue or plead or anything. If not for someone else's intervention, she would've been immediately locked up. Not even taken in by him, he called some lackey to get her. Real manly. Real mate-like.
-He distrusts her tech powers and even considers her a threat for a minute. But when she says she doesn't want a career using her powers, he thinks, "what a waste." Yeah, I bet she could be of real use to you huh, hypocrite?
-Asshole H is willing to let his cousin die of the very same affliction that he's taking her hormones for, and he's too jealous and angry and resentful to even consider a way to share her or her precious hormone. What a heartless, selfish man.
-The heroine asks her hero's cousin to train her. The cousin rebukes her and lectures her about not going behind her mate's back if she knows he would disapprove of her learning to fight because it would hurt his stupid, fragile male ego. Fuck the hero and the hero's cousin here. Can someone please place the heroine first and consider what she wants and needs to feel safe and secure in and of herself? Not in this very obviously patriarchal society.
-The hero's cousin then says that it's inappropriate for her to touch him, it's disrespectful to her mate. BUT. That's the way of HER people. Why is she forced to listen and follow their societal rules, yet they get to benefit from her biology and psi powers? They get to suck the oxytocin from her and she has to fall in line with the military and laws and expectations? FUCK. THAT.
Do I read to much into the details of the book? Or perhaps blow something from micro to macro too easily? Perhaps. But I read a lot of reviews that made me excited to read this book and spoke of how awesome it was. oversold, it was.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2017
Escaping Fate was an amazing challenge to write. I love sci-fi romance novels as well as anything with a touch of the paranormal. For years, I've been a huge fan of Nalini Singh, Tracy St. John, R. Lee Smith, M.K. Eidem, and Evangeline Anderson. Each of them and their work has been a part of my inspiration writing this novel.
When I started writing this book, I wanted a properly fleshed out world, with complex social and political conflicts that would still be relatable to our modern day world. The Psy-Changelings series and the Clans of Kalquor are great examples of what I was gunning for. As I am a sucker for the Mars Needs Women trope, I had to weave that in somehow and explore some of the serious repercussion such a situation could have on the people, their society, and criminality.
Then I wanted a smart, strong heroine that had no problem embracing her vulnerabilities while also kicking ass when needed. Add to that two hot, deeply conflicted men, a bit of scorching heat, a relentless master and corrupt nobles, it felt like a good recipe for an action-packed, keep you at the edge of your seat romantic thriller.
I hope you will enjoy my book as much as I loved writing it.
When I started writing this book, I wanted a properly fleshed out world, with complex social and political conflicts that would still be relatable to our modern day world. The Psy-Changelings series and the Clans of Kalquor are great examples of what I was gunning for. As I am a sucker for the Mars Needs Women trope, I had to weave that in somehow and explore some of the serious repercussion such a situation could have on the people, their society, and criminality.
Then I wanted a smart, strong heroine that had no problem embracing her vulnerabilities while also kicking ass when needed. Add to that two hot, deeply conflicted men, a bit of scorching heat, a relentless master and corrupt nobles, it felt like a good recipe for an action-packed, keep you at the edge of your seat romantic thriller.
I hope you will enjoy my book as much as I loved writing it.
April 13, 2017
Good GRAVY, I liked this book. As a sci-fi romance junky, this book made me SO HAPPY. It had everything I wanted AND MORE. I mean, LOOK! It's making me review in sporadic caps. THAT'S VERY TELLING.
Things I adored: the worldbuilding. SO GOOD. From the genetic taint that is killing Khel and Lhor and others of their kind to the slavers running their flesh trades to the quirks of Amalia's heritage (quirks she isn't even aware of since she's one of the last of her kind), I was smitten. The more we learned of the world/universe, the more I WANTED to know.
*draws sparkly hearts around it all*
As for the romance, I was VERY curious how the very possessive Khel would reach the point where he was willing to see Amalia in another's arms. Whether his cousin or someone else. Honestly, it took time. His possessive streak runs deep and he had to come to terms with things in his head before he was comfortable with seeing her with another.
I'm incredibly excited about this series in general and CAN'T WAIT to see what's up next with the Veredians.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Things I adored: the worldbuilding. SO GOOD. From the genetic taint that is killing Khel and Lhor and others of their kind to the slavers running their flesh trades to the quirks of Amalia's heritage (quirks she isn't even aware of since she's one of the last of her kind), I was smitten. The more we learned of the world/universe, the more I WANTED to know.
*draws sparkly hearts around it all*
As for the romance, I was VERY curious how the very possessive Khel would reach the point where he was willing to see Amalia in another's arms. Whether his cousin or someone else. Honestly, it took time. His possessive streak runs deep and he had to come to terms with things in his head before he was comfortable with seeing her with another.
I'm incredibly excited about this series in general and CAN'T WAIT to see what's up next with the Veredians.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
February 22, 2020
4.5 stars
“We’re going to wash away today’s madness. And while we do so, I’ll tell you about a little girl’s dream of escaping fate.”
Thank you very much to Regine Abel for providing a copy of her novel in exchange for an honest review.
Regine Abel’s Escaping Fate is an alluring and tantalising sci-fi that all Romance lovers should read. Set against the backdrop of alien planets, impending war and phenomenal world-building, Escaping Fate is both a character- and plot-driven romance that kept me reading until the early hours of the morning.
It has been a very long time since I last read a hetero romance novel, and I have never before read a MFM. I had no idea what to expect going into this novel, and to say I was impressed by Escaping Fate would be an understatement. Regine Abel has created something truly spectacular here – a real tour de force. By far the strongest element in the novel Abel’s impeccable world-building: alien worlds, distinct cultures and species, venereal ceremonies, forms of government, corrupt politics … the list just goes on. Never before have I read a SFF where the world felt so real. What I loved most about the worlds Abel has created is that Xelix Prime, the planet Amalia finds herself on, is deeply respectful of women. It’s still a patriarchal society but women are venerated, and despite the inclusion of sexual slavery, the novel is very pro-woman and pro-choice. Abel makes it very clear who the bad guys are: the slavers, the rapists, the people who stood idly by while women were kidnapped and forced to breed.
The plot felt like one wild ride after another – it didn’t let up for a second. After Amalia escapes from her slaver, she is directed by her grandmother to attend a Fastening, a sort of mock-marriage ceremony the people’s of the planet Xelix Prime experience. There, Amalia discovers the unfair caste system of society: the Primes, the Norms, and the Tainted. The latter group are infected with a non-transmissible disease that manifests itself in black lines across one’s body, and also infects the organs and reproductive functions while decreasing life expectancy from 135 to 40. Society has all but abandoned the Tainted and treat them little better than slaves. But the Taint can also be reversed, even healed, through intercourse, which delays the spread of the disease. Amalia attends the Fastening to find herself a mate and surprises everyone by choosing one of the Tainted: Khel, the last surviving member of the noble Praghan family and General of the Xelixian Army. Amalia chooses him to protect her from her former slaver, who is hunting her down.
Reading the blurb, I never would have expected Amalia to be such a badass. I fully expected her to be like the stereotypical female romance characters from the fiction I read years ago: submissive, meek, with no discernible personality aside from lusting after the love interest every five minutes, but Amalia is not like that. She’s a strong, willful, dominant young woman who endured a lifetime of slavery, escaped, and is ready to take down the bastards who ruined her life. I have nothing but admiration for her, and am so grateful that Abel wrote her this way. She is also surprisingly funny – many of her interactions with Khel, Lhor and their friends is filled with moments of hilarity. Those scenes really brightened the entire novel. She also has this extraordinary empathy for everyone and won’t rest until the women she watched be sold into slavery are found.
I had a few issues with Khel’s character, mainly at how overprotective of Amalia he seemed to be. The Xelixian people are very protective of women, due to the spread of the Taint, and they have strict societal codes that everyone must abide by. He could come across as quite rigid and traditional, but I liked how Abel specifically contrasted him with his cousin Lhor, the exact opposite to Khel. While Khel has a few issues with anger and protectiveness, he also grows and learns from his mistakes. What Abel did really well in Escaping Fate is keeping character’s personalities consistent, while also open enough for development. What I mean by that is, often in Romances, characters’ personalities can be all over the place as the plot tends to come second to the erotica – thankfully, that is not the case with Abel’s novel. I am highly impressed by each of the characters in Escaping Fate, even the background ones.
Lhor, on the other hand, was an absolute delight. During the Fastening, Amalia is torn between Lhor and Khel, but eventually chooses Khel because of his strength, but the tension between Lhor and Amalia is undeniable. As Abel describes in her short story Losing Amalia, Lhor and Amalia’s souls knew each other, but Amalia chooses his cousin instead. Lhor suffers silently in jealousy and shame: jealousy, because Amalia is basically his soulmate, and shame because Khel is his Geminate. The Geminates are one of the most interesting aspects of Abel’s worldbuilding – it is a person whose soul is split into two separate bodies, allowing them to feel one another’s emotions. Usually, Gems come in the form of twins, but Lhor and Khel are special cases as they are cousins. If the Gems are separated for a long period of time, the younger, weaker Gem becomes sick and only the presence of the elder Gem can heal them. Because Lhor is the younger Gem, he has often felt inadequate his entire life, as though he were leaching off of Khel. The scenes were Lhor self-deprecates tore at my heart and I just wanted to give him a hug. He is a sweetheart of a character, and my favourite from the novel.
Abel really toyed with my emotions throughout Escaping Fate. I didn’t expect to care this much about the characters, but I did. Abel’s impeccable prose and pacing certainly had something to do with this. At times, I was so blown away by her writing it almost didn’t register I was reading at all and I breezed through the novel in a matter of days. Anytime I found myself with a spare moment, I was drawn back to Escaping Fate.
I look forward to the next novel in the series. As Escaping Fate is a standalone, I assume the next novel will focus on other characters, but perhaps the same world and similar plot as Abel has left a few storylines open. I especially am looking forward to how learning more about the Tainted and how attitudes towards them will develop.
Escaping Fate was an epic sci-fi, simmering with passionate romance. Abel has truly outdone herself and I highly recommend this novel to any fan of romances. It’s a must-read.
“We’re going to wash away today’s madness. And while we do so, I’ll tell you about a little girl’s dream of escaping fate.”
Thank you very much to Regine Abel for providing a copy of her novel in exchange for an honest review.
Regine Abel’s Escaping Fate is an alluring and tantalising sci-fi that all Romance lovers should read. Set against the backdrop of alien planets, impending war and phenomenal world-building, Escaping Fate is both a character- and plot-driven romance that kept me reading until the early hours of the morning.
It has been a very long time since I last read a hetero romance novel, and I have never before read a MFM. I had no idea what to expect going into this novel, and to say I was impressed by Escaping Fate would be an understatement. Regine Abel has created something truly spectacular here – a real tour de force. By far the strongest element in the novel Abel’s impeccable world-building: alien worlds, distinct cultures and species, venereal ceremonies, forms of government, corrupt politics … the list just goes on. Never before have I read a SFF where the world felt so real. What I loved most about the worlds Abel has created is that Xelix Prime, the planet Amalia finds herself on, is deeply respectful of women. It’s still a patriarchal society but women are venerated, and despite the inclusion of sexual slavery, the novel is very pro-woman and pro-choice. Abel makes it very clear who the bad guys are: the slavers, the rapists, the people who stood idly by while women were kidnapped and forced to breed.
The plot felt like one wild ride after another – it didn’t let up for a second. After Amalia escapes from her slaver, she is directed by her grandmother to attend a Fastening, a sort of mock-marriage ceremony the people’s of the planet Xelix Prime experience. There, Amalia discovers the unfair caste system of society: the Primes, the Norms, and the Tainted. The latter group are infected with a non-transmissible disease that manifests itself in black lines across one’s body, and also infects the organs and reproductive functions while decreasing life expectancy from 135 to 40. Society has all but abandoned the Tainted and treat them little better than slaves. But the Taint can also be reversed, even healed, through intercourse, which delays the spread of the disease. Amalia attends the Fastening to find herself a mate and surprises everyone by choosing one of the Tainted: Khel, the last surviving member of the noble Praghan family and General of the Xelixian Army. Amalia chooses him to protect her from her former slaver, who is hunting her down.
Reading the blurb, I never would have expected Amalia to be such a badass. I fully expected her to be like the stereotypical female romance characters from the fiction I read years ago: submissive, meek, with no discernible personality aside from lusting after the love interest every five minutes, but Amalia is not like that. She’s a strong, willful, dominant young woman who endured a lifetime of slavery, escaped, and is ready to take down the bastards who ruined her life. I have nothing but admiration for her, and am so grateful that Abel wrote her this way. She is also surprisingly funny – many of her interactions with Khel, Lhor and their friends is filled with moments of hilarity. Those scenes really brightened the entire novel. She also has this extraordinary empathy for everyone and won’t rest until the women she watched be sold into slavery are found.
I had a few issues with Khel’s character, mainly at how overprotective of Amalia he seemed to be. The Xelixian people are very protective of women, due to the spread of the Taint, and they have strict societal codes that everyone must abide by. He could come across as quite rigid and traditional, but I liked how Abel specifically contrasted him with his cousin Lhor, the exact opposite to Khel. While Khel has a few issues with anger and protectiveness, he also grows and learns from his mistakes. What Abel did really well in Escaping Fate is keeping character’s personalities consistent, while also open enough for development. What I mean by that is, often in Romances, characters’ personalities can be all over the place as the plot tends to come second to the erotica – thankfully, that is not the case with Abel’s novel. I am highly impressed by each of the characters in Escaping Fate, even the background ones.
Lhor, on the other hand, was an absolute delight. During the Fastening, Amalia is torn between Lhor and Khel, but eventually chooses Khel because of his strength, but the tension between Lhor and Amalia is undeniable. As Abel describes in her short story Losing Amalia, Lhor and Amalia’s souls knew each other, but Amalia chooses his cousin instead. Lhor suffers silently in jealousy and shame: jealousy, because Amalia is basically his soulmate, and shame because Khel is his Geminate. The Geminates are one of the most interesting aspects of Abel’s worldbuilding – it is a person whose soul is split into two separate bodies, allowing them to feel one another’s emotions. Usually, Gems come in the form of twins, but Lhor and Khel are special cases as they are cousins. If the Gems are separated for a long period of time, the younger, weaker Gem becomes sick and only the presence of the elder Gem can heal them. Because Lhor is the younger Gem, he has often felt inadequate his entire life, as though he were leaching off of Khel. The scenes were Lhor self-deprecates tore at my heart and I just wanted to give him a hug. He is a sweetheart of a character, and my favourite from the novel.
Abel really toyed with my emotions throughout Escaping Fate. I didn’t expect to care this much about the characters, but I did. Abel’s impeccable prose and pacing certainly had something to do with this. At times, I was so blown away by her writing it almost didn’t register I was reading at all and I breezed through the novel in a matter of days. Anytime I found myself with a spare moment, I was drawn back to Escaping Fate.
I look forward to the next novel in the series. As Escaping Fate is a standalone, I assume the next novel will focus on other characters, but perhaps the same world and similar plot as Abel has left a few storylines open. I especially am looking forward to how learning more about the Tainted and how attitudes towards them will develop.
Escaping Fate was an epic sci-fi, simmering with passionate romance. Abel has truly outdone herself and I highly recommend this novel to any fan of romances. It’s a must-read.
March 28, 2017
Okay, I am that type of blogger who reads the weirdest books and always read all kinds of books. When I saw Escaping Fate's blurb, I knew I had to read it. It had such an enticing storyline with a weird sci-fi vibe that definitely caught my eye. I only read one sci-fi and no book had surpassed that but I found myself so surprised that I found another sci-fi/alien that delivered the goods. Escaping Fate was such an interesting and explosive sci-fi book that had me so excited to point that I was going crazy.
Escaping Fate was a book that pulled me in. There was just something so special about it that totally made me pay attention. I was reading something very different and unique and it definitely sated my reading taste buds. Riveting. Explosive. Sexy. Drama. Angst. Escaping Fate was a beautiful sci-fi romance that left me begging for more. Escaping Fate was a book packed with enough action that thrilled me. I was transported to another planet while I reading this book. I felt I was in he alien and experiencing their lives. It is because of the writing. The writing was so vivid that I swear I was living the reality of the aliens. I actually thought I was one of them. It reminded me of Star Wars but more edgier,more darker and more sexier that caused a burning hole in my kindle. This book should come with hazard. Warning, this book will make you hot all over. Hahaha. I commend Regine Abel for giving me a book I craved so much for. It was a definite sci-fi beauty that transfixed me.
Meet Amalia, a Veredian woman with such a feisty nature and a survivor and Khel and Lhor, two tainted Xelixian males looking for two Pearls to cure their Taint, together they were such a complicated couple yet had enough drama and angst that brought me to the edge. I was fixated on their relationship. I could not get enough of it. Their relationship was toe curling and enough heat to cause a fire. I loved their struggle as a unit and it was a side that I liked.Not every trio has roses. No there is jealousy and resentment and Regine Abel executed that perfectly. I loved Amalia. She was fierce, strong, loving and caring. Khel was dominant but damn he made me hot. Lhor was different. He was more vulnerable. He cared far more and I absolutely adored him. There are a unit to be reckoned with.
Well, Escaping Fate was amazing. I enjoyed so much that I am going to stalk the author. I have my conspiracy theories and I cannot wait until they are solved. Looking to the next book in the series. It has piqued my curiosity.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Escaping Fate was a book that pulled me in. There was just something so special about it that totally made me pay attention. I was reading something very different and unique and it definitely sated my reading taste buds. Riveting. Explosive. Sexy. Drama. Angst. Escaping Fate was a beautiful sci-fi romance that left me begging for more. Escaping Fate was a book packed with enough action that thrilled me. I was transported to another planet while I reading this book. I felt I was in he alien and experiencing their lives. It is because of the writing. The writing was so vivid that I swear I was living the reality of the aliens. I actually thought I was one of them. It reminded me of Star Wars but more edgier,more darker and more sexier that caused a burning hole in my kindle. This book should come with hazard. Warning, this book will make you hot all over. Hahaha. I commend Regine Abel for giving me a book I craved so much for. It was a definite sci-fi beauty that transfixed me.
Meet Amalia, a Veredian woman with such a feisty nature and a survivor and Khel and Lhor, two tainted Xelixian males looking for two Pearls to cure their Taint, together they were such a complicated couple yet had enough drama and angst that brought me to the edge. I was fixated on their relationship. I could not get enough of it. Their relationship was toe curling and enough heat to cause a fire. I loved their struggle as a unit and it was a side that I liked.Not every trio has roses. No there is jealousy and resentment and Regine Abel executed that perfectly. I loved Amalia. She was fierce, strong, loving and caring. Khel was dominant but damn he made me hot. Lhor was different. He was more vulnerable. He cared far more and I absolutely adored him. There are a unit to be reckoned with.
Well, Escaping Fate was amazing. I enjoyed so much that I am going to stalk the author. I have my conspiracy theories and I cannot wait until they are solved. Looking to the next book in the series. It has piqued my curiosity.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2021
**4.25** This is more science fiction than romance than the cheesy cover suggests. I was expecting some fun M/F/M steam and possibly some fighting since Amalia is on the cover with a sword in hand. This story had wonderful world building, great characters and fabulous details into side characters as well. There is political intrigue, alien ceremonies, corrupt doctors and so many secret bad guys!
Amalia has always been a slave. She’s grown up on a ship run by a slaver. While he’s not cruel to Amalia, he does let his crew torture and rape other slaves to keep Amalia and her ‘Nana’ in line. Amalia and her grandmother are from an almost extinct race of aliens called Veredian. They have psi powers.
Khel and Lhor are cousins, both suffering from a disease called The Taint. It's a progressive illness where the men become sicker and sicker until they die, usually before their 40th birthday. The untainted live over 130 years.
I loved the idea surrounding Gems. Khel and Lhor are Geminates, half of the others soul. (No sword crossing here)
Blood Houses made perfect sense for this world. I couldn’t help but feel really badly for those poor Tainted men who are left to die! Of course this society is using women for their oxytocin! If only the elite are able to get mates, and only a rare few of the Tainted get cured, I can understand the desperation. Why not get rid of the middle man, and let women decide if they want to share their oxytocin with these men!
Amalia has always been a slave. She’s grown up on a ship run by a slaver. While he’s not cruel to Amalia, he does let his crew torture and rape other slaves to keep Amalia and her ‘Nana’ in line. Amalia and her grandmother are from an almost extinct race of aliens called Veredian. They have psi powers.
Khel and Lhor are cousins, both suffering from a disease called The Taint. It's a progressive illness where the men become sicker and sicker until they die, usually before their 40th birthday. The untainted live over 130 years.
The Taint had staked its claim on his body even more than mine. HIs light grey skin was covered by a network of black veins. On his face, neck and chest, dark blotches indicated some capillaries had ruptured.These men are ostracized from society, usually taking hard labor work to offset the severity of the Taint. BUT, there is a cure!!
The more oxytocin I absorbed from her, the faster I would be rid of the Taint. But the hormone was also responsible for the feeling of ecstasy that lingered after a female’s orgasm. Each drop I took from her lessened the intensity of her rapture.The romance angle is slow to build and it actually felt realistic. I think because of the cover, I expected a menage, but that doesn’t happen until around 90%. (And even then, it’s super tame) The men struggle with sharing Amalia. It was a refreshing take on a M/F/M relationship.
I loved the idea surrounding Gems. Khel and Lhor are Geminates, half of the others soul. (No sword crossing here)
Blood Houses made perfect sense for this world. I couldn’t help but feel really badly for those poor Tainted men who are left to die! Of course this society is using women for their oxytocin! If only the elite are able to get mates, and only a rare few of the Tainted get cured, I can understand the desperation. Why not get rid of the middle man, and let women decide if they want to share their oxytocin with these men!
March 19, 2017
For me, the focus of the book wasn't on the female lead, she's fallen on her feet to a certain extent after a horrible start in life. I was completely fascinated by the complex relationship between Lhor and Khel. Geminates, they are the other half of each other's soul, ones tries to protect, one feels he's a burden, neither talks about it and its ripping them apart.
Both are dying from the Taint a disease common to most Xelixian males which results in death before 40. Both try to spare the other's feelings, keeping a 'stiff upper lip' till Amalia comes on the scene and changes the game entirely. Jealous, anger, heartbreak and self sacrifice, its all here against a backdrop of saving enslaved females.
This is a riveting start to a series, and although many people may be wishing Regine goes on to explore the rest of Amalia's fascinating race, I'll be looking out for more angst ridden Xelixians!
Both are dying from the Taint a disease common to most Xelixian males which results in death before 40. Both try to spare the other's feelings, keeping a 'stiff upper lip' till Amalia comes on the scene and changes the game entirely. Jealous, anger, heartbreak and self sacrifice, its all here against a backdrop of saving enslaved females.
This is a riveting start to a series, and although many people may be wishing Regine goes on to explore the rest of Amalia's fascinating race, I'll be looking out for more angst ridden Xelixians!
March 27, 2017
Any story that has a feisty thinking heroine who wants to learn to fight despite having the protection of the entire Xelixian army has got to be worth reading about. Plus she speaks her mind and isn't overly impressed with restrictive societal etiquette.
Escaping Fate is an interesting and enjoyable read, decently paced, with some good main characters. Perhaps feisty Amalia is a bit too perfect, but the character development of the two cousins – Khel in particular – is nicely done, and secondary characters flesh out the story. After Khel, First Officer Ghan is probably my favourite character.
It's sci-fi, futuristic, fantasy plus romance and sex, with some fighting and killing, so there is a good imaginative mix in there.
If you choose to look, there are some serious messages in there about slavery, prostitution, female independence, discrimination, jealousy, emotional insecurity – and — not judging people (solely) by their appearances, which I thought elevated this from an average decent fantasy to a rather more interesting one.
There are no real surprises in the plot, so it will be interesting to see how Abel follows up this story given that this is Book 1 of the Veredian Chronicles.
A few typos still existed in my pre-publication copy, so hopefully the author can sort those before April. Nothing mega though, not enough to seriously disrupt the reading enjoyment.
Escaping Fate is an interesting and enjoyable read, decently paced, with some good main characters. Perhaps feisty Amalia is a bit too perfect, but the character development of the two cousins – Khel in particular – is nicely done, and secondary characters flesh out the story. After Khel, First Officer Ghan is probably my favourite character.
It's sci-fi, futuristic, fantasy plus romance and sex, with some fighting and killing, so there is a good imaginative mix in there.
If you choose to look, there are some serious messages in there about slavery, prostitution, female independence, discrimination, jealousy, emotional insecurity – and — not judging people (solely) by their appearances, which I thought elevated this from an average decent fantasy to a rather more interesting one.
There are no real surprises in the plot, so it will be interesting to see how Abel follows up this story given that this is Book 1 of the Veredian Chronicles.
A few typos still existed in my pre-publication copy, so hopefully the author can sort those before April. Nothing mega though, not enough to seriously disrupt the reading enjoyment.
September 21, 2017
Really enjoyed this book, some one from one of the facebook groups I'm in recommended it and I'm glad they did!! A bit hot too and steamy to recommend to my Mum but the story was great the world building was satisfying no too stupid to live moments from the heroine.
I loved how the romance went, sometimes things are so rushed they don't seem plausible but I was really invested in the story and did not think this was the case in this book.
A new author to me but definitely on my watch list now! Hmmm 12:30am and I have got book two .. to sleep or not to sleep
I loved how the romance went, sometimes things are so rushed they don't seem plausible but I was really invested in the story and did not think this was the case in this book.
A new author to me but definitely on my watch list now! Hmmm 12:30am and I have got book two .. to sleep or not to sleep
September 9, 2021
4.2 stars.
This book was beautiful.
There was so much emotion and playfulness in the story.
I really loved seeing all of them come together and create their own family.
There was danger, and heartache, and struggle.
But there was also love, and growth, and reunion.
I really liked Amalia and all of her strength, attitude and deep loyalty to those she loves.
I enjoyed getting to know about Xelixian culture and politics and laws. So interesting.
I didn’t really enjoy the ending as much as I wanted to, though.
It felt unfinished.
Things get left unsaid and I know it’s because the next book has those answers.
Unfortunately for me, I’m not all that interested in reading about the next cast of characters.
It was a sweet ending. But it was wide open and I hate when that happens in a book claiming to be standalone.
The plot continues, while the characters’ relationship at the very least gets a HEA.
Very frustrating for me.
But even still, I loved reading this.
This author is fast becoming a favorite.
Even with her tendency to summarize when the story is coming to an end.
This book was beautiful.
There was so much emotion and playfulness in the story.
I really loved seeing all of them come together and create their own family.
There was danger, and heartache, and struggle.
But there was also love, and growth, and reunion.
I really liked Amalia and all of her strength, attitude and deep loyalty to those she loves.
I enjoyed getting to know about Xelixian culture and politics and laws. So interesting.
I didn’t really enjoy the ending as much as I wanted to, though.
It felt unfinished.
Things get left unsaid and I know it’s because the next book has those answers.
Unfortunately for me, I’m not all that interested in reading about the next cast of characters.
It was a sweet ending. But it was wide open and I hate when that happens in a book claiming to be standalone.
The plot continues, while the characters’ relationship at the very least gets a HEA.
Very frustrating for me.
But even still, I loved reading this.
This author is fast becoming a favorite.
Even with her tendency to summarize when the story is coming to an end.
March 25, 2017
I received this ARC in exchange for my review.
4+ stars. This is a very good SFR story with a somewhat complicated plot and strong characters. There are dark themes of slavery and bigotry, and references to terrible things that have happened in the past, but the main story is about the development of the relationship between Amalia and the men who take her in. Throw in a missile or two and a mystery alien guest and you've got a rocking story.
There are some classic themes which are given original spins to avoid falling into trope-land. In addition, there are several races to keep track of, and several layers of politics. Plus the "sex or die" aspect is a driving force. The world building is sufficient to provide the setting, but doesn't drown is in details or techno-babble. The author holds back some surprises until late in the book, but they are quite rewarding.
There are several hot sex scenes, and even more fade-to-black / woke-up-sore references. I would have preferred more, but I always do.
I look forward to the next book.
4+ stars. This is a very good SFR story with a somewhat complicated plot and strong characters. There are dark themes of slavery and bigotry, and references to terrible things that have happened in the past, but the main story is about the development of the relationship between Amalia and the men who take her in. Throw in a missile or two and a mystery alien guest and you've got a rocking story.
There are some classic themes which are given original spins to avoid falling into trope-land. In addition, there are several races to keep track of, and several layers of politics. Plus the "sex or die" aspect is a driving force. The world building is sufficient to provide the setting, but doesn't drown is in details or techno-babble. The author holds back some surprises until late in the book, but they are quite rewarding.
There are several hot sex scenes, and even more fade-to-black / woke-up-sore references. I would have preferred more, but I always do.
I look forward to the next book.
April 4, 2017
I love the world Regine has built.
Khel is so sweet, amazing, and understanding and ferociously protective but also very possessive.
Amalia has a tortured soul. For things she's had to do in the past to insure the welfare of those around her.
She quickly becomes the light to both Khel and Lhor.
Lhor is funny, amusing, amazing and ferociously protective.
I don't know maybe I'm overly emotional or maybe I'm just that invested in these characters but I can't turn off the waterworks.
If you like adventure, excitement, danger and love then this is the book for you.
No cliffhanger, No cheating, garuanteed HEA.
Khel is so sweet, amazing, and understanding and ferociously protective but also very possessive.
Amalia has a tortured soul. For things she's had to do in the past to insure the welfare of those around her.
She quickly becomes the light to both Khel and Lhor.
Lhor is funny, amusing, amazing and ferociously protective.
I don't know maybe I'm overly emotional or maybe I'm just that invested in these characters but I can't turn off the waterworks.
If you like adventure, excitement, danger and love then this is the book for you.
No cliffhanger, No cheating, garuanteed HEA.
August 10, 2018
LOVED IT!
June 6, 2021
Totally engrossing story and world building. First book in this series certainly sets the pace for following books.
March 8, 2018
I just loved this sooo dang much....
This was everything I could want in a story,with an extra H to love added to the mix....
Amalia was just simply amazing !!! Period,full stop !
She was that wonder combination of smart sass, intelligent with a strong backbone and sense of honor but full of common sense knowing she couldn’t do everything herself when to lean on others and full of love and laughter and eager to share that with others....
all to often you read books where your “supposed” root or the hero or heroine to get together or be loved but honestly your not always shown why,either the H or the h or both may have personalities that or either too aggressive and commanding ( demanding love or respect or loyalty or compliance) with out wanting to earn it, or being too passive and doing such a good imitation of a doormat it seems someone should be commenting on how WELCOME is printed across their foreheads heroines who will do anything ( and I do mean ANYTHING!) for the H because her panties damp and has a sexy body and yet you don’t really know why your supposed to like these clueless fools all the other characters seem to fawn over...
You sit there thinking such and such is nice but why is everyone falling over themselves to have him or her,there’s no real character building to inspire the characters “love fest” for them and yet everyone just has to have them or try and please them ...
Not here, Amalia gives you reasons from the get go w/her kindness and strength and true intelligence and even with all she’s seen and done a sweetness ,bravery and innocence, you go off on her journey with her excited to see what life has in store for her praying she gets the chance at the better life she soo richly deserves .....
I loved when she went to the “Fastening” ( what an interesting idea ) ( I loved that despite being a patriarchal society women get to be in charge of moment ) when she met Khel and Lhor it was soo sweet and beautiful and kinda sexy in a way...
I loved er choice of wanting a “tainted” male, wanting someone who wanted and needed her as much as she needed him....
My only regret was how long it took for things to work out for Amalia to both her mates and work past all their hurts and insecurities,mainly Khel’s and though it made sense it worked out it , did I just can’t help but wish Khel could have been a little less insecure with the two ppl who he loved most in the world and vice versa......
If I could have changed anything other than staying with three amazing ppl and their family longer ( never wanted to leave) it would have been giving Khel a much needed reality check sooner,his resistance to knowing and understanding things about himself and his cousin who was really his brother ( in all ways that counted ) was just drawn out a bit too long and then his reaction to let his quote “ inner beast” loose to verbally attacked and flay Amalia and Lhor was just 80 shades of wrong and honestly I feel Amalia and Lhor shoulda kicked his rear a bit over that, instead of feeling and acting like ones needing to apologize,even thought lol Amalia was very very good at setting him straight ...
Why should she apologize for saving Lhor’s life,was she supposed to let him die ?
Loved this book,I’m sorry I waited soo long....
I can’t wait to read more , I hope this series continues!!!!
This was everything I could want in a story,with an extra H to love added to the mix....
Amalia was just simply amazing !!! Period,full stop !
She was that wonder combination of smart sass, intelligent with a strong backbone and sense of honor but full of common sense knowing she couldn’t do everything herself when to lean on others and full of love and laughter and eager to share that with others....
all to often you read books where your “supposed” root or the hero or heroine to get together or be loved but honestly your not always shown why,either the H or the h or both may have personalities that or either too aggressive and commanding ( demanding love or respect or loyalty or compliance) with out wanting to earn it, or being too passive and doing such a good imitation of a doormat it seems someone should be commenting on how WELCOME is printed across their foreheads heroines who will do anything ( and I do mean ANYTHING!) for the H because her panties damp and has a sexy body and yet you don’t really know why your supposed to like these clueless fools all the other characters seem to fawn over...
You sit there thinking such and such is nice but why is everyone falling over themselves to have him or her,there’s no real character building to inspire the characters “love fest” for them and yet everyone just has to have them or try and please them ...
Not here, Amalia gives you reasons from the get go w/her kindness and strength and true intelligence and even with all she’s seen and done a sweetness ,bravery and innocence, you go off on her journey with her excited to see what life has in store for her praying she gets the chance at the better life she soo richly deserves .....
I loved when she went to the “Fastening” ( what an interesting idea ) ( I loved that despite being a patriarchal society women get to be in charge of moment ) when she met Khel and Lhor it was soo sweet and beautiful and kinda sexy in a way...
I loved er choice of wanting a “tainted” male, wanting someone who wanted and needed her as much as she needed him....
My only regret was how long it took for things to work out for Amalia to both her mates and work past all their hurts and insecurities,mainly Khel’s and though it made sense it worked out it , did I just can’t help but wish Khel could have been a little less insecure with the two ppl who he loved most in the world and vice versa......
If I could have changed anything other than staying with three amazing ppl and their family longer ( never wanted to leave) it would have been giving Khel a much needed reality check sooner,his resistance to knowing and understanding things about himself and his cousin who was really his brother ( in all ways that counted ) was just drawn out a bit too long and then his reaction to let his quote “ inner beast” loose to verbally attacked and flay Amalia and Lhor was just 80 shades of wrong and honestly I feel Amalia and Lhor shoulda kicked his rear a bit over that, instead of feeling and acting like ones needing to apologize,even thought lol Amalia was very very good at setting him straight ...
Why should she apologize for saving Lhor’s life,was she supposed to let him die ?
Loved this book,I’m sorry I waited soo long....
I can’t wait to read more , I hope this series continues!!!!
January 23, 2018
First in series.
We meet Amalia held captive, forces into assisting a cruel and cunning trafficker of women, it doesn’t matter their species he will sell them for the right price. But not Amalia...she is gutted like all who share her veredian race. Seizing her opportunity to escape and devasation at leaving her grandmother behind she flees... her only chance at survival is to find a protector, a saviour...a mate.
The planet Amalia finds herself on is renowned for its protecting of females and even has outworlders vying to secure males at the fastening ceremonies.
Primes ( the most wanted males ) norms ( next in the hierarchy ) and then the least wanted or cared for those that are suffereing from taint. A genetic disfiguring and painful condition that robs the males of their lives at roughly 40 years old. Most of the tainted are warriors, the physical activity assists in holding the taints spread...the only other things is oxytocin from their mate.
With women in very low numbers and off worlder women generally arranged in advance.. the tainted males attend the fastening knowing they have little or no chance but it is a last chance.
General Khel and his cousin ( and gem- shared soul ) lhor are two tainted males attending thebfastening khel because he needs a mate to help him secure his family home and lhor at khel’s request....khel doesn’t expect to get chosen but when he finds Amalia stood in front of him and lhor choosing between them... he finds himself praying that she picks him.
What a fantastic book. The amount of world building that has gone into this is amazing. I was completely blown away and can honestly say that I adored every minute of this book.
I enjoyed seeing Amalia flourish and grow in her relationship with khel.
I actually enjoyed that khel was jealous and insecure over Amalia and lhor’s relationship, it brought a fantastic level of realism to the book.
I will defiantly be reading the rest of this series!!
And I wanna know if ghan will have a book??? PLEASE PLEASE SAY HE DOES!!!
We meet Amalia held captive, forces into assisting a cruel and cunning trafficker of women, it doesn’t matter their species he will sell them for the right price. But not Amalia...she is gutted like all who share her veredian race. Seizing her opportunity to escape and devasation at leaving her grandmother behind she flees... her only chance at survival is to find a protector, a saviour...a mate.
The planet Amalia finds herself on is renowned for its protecting of females and even has outworlders vying to secure males at the fastening ceremonies.
Primes ( the most wanted males ) norms ( next in the hierarchy ) and then the least wanted or cared for those that are suffereing from taint. A genetic disfiguring and painful condition that robs the males of their lives at roughly 40 years old. Most of the tainted are warriors, the physical activity assists in holding the taints spread...the only other things is oxytocin from their mate.
With women in very low numbers and off worlder women generally arranged in advance.. the tainted males attend the fastening knowing they have little or no chance but it is a last chance.
General Khel and his cousin ( and gem- shared soul ) lhor are two tainted males attending thebfastening khel because he needs a mate to help him secure his family home and lhor at khel’s request....khel doesn’t expect to get chosen but when he finds Amalia stood in front of him and lhor choosing between them... he finds himself praying that she picks him.
What a fantastic book. The amount of world building that has gone into this is amazing. I was completely blown away and can honestly say that I adored every minute of this book.
I enjoyed seeing Amalia flourish and grow in her relationship with khel.
I actually enjoyed that khel was jealous and insecure over Amalia and lhor’s relationship, it brought a fantastic level of realism to the book.
I will defiantly be reading the rest of this series!!
And I wanna know if ghan will have a book??? PLEASE PLEASE SAY HE DOES!!!
March 21, 2017
** ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
Its been a while that a read a really good/great scifirom.
Yayyy finally. I really love this one.
And I can't wait to read the next one! (Hoping it will be soon!)
Its been a while that a read a really good/great scifirom.
Yayyy finally. I really love this one.
And I can't wait to read the next one! (Hoping it will be soon!)
January 31, 2020
Inconsistent characters
Amalia started out so promising but once she was in the relationship with Kher, she turned sour for me. She kept keeping secrets only to swear she wouldn't hidden anything anymore and then she did I again. The world building was good, some things were too similar to the human/terran body and society so I think the author could have don't more there. They overall background plot was interesting enough to keep me reading. Undecided if I'll continue the series.
Amalia started out so promising but once she was in the relationship with Kher, she turned sour for me. She kept keeping secrets only to swear she wouldn't hidden anything anymore and then she did I again. The world building was good, some things were too similar to the human/terran body and society so I think the author could have don't more there. They overall background plot was interesting enough to keep me reading. Undecided if I'll continue the series.
March 23, 2020
Good science fantasy world building. The Hs are both dying and although the h saves them it's a rather drawn out complicated process. Lots of bad guys, misunderstandings and the h's inexperience causes some angst. The Hs are full of guilt and dishonest too, easy to understand as they are grieving before one of them dies. Nice bite of angst, a good adventure, and a tiny bit long winded, with too much Telling. I loved it anyway.
July 2, 2021
1.5 rounded up
DNF 87%. So close to finishing but I absolutely don’t care.
This book isn’t horrible but it’s far from enjoyable. A few good moments but not enough to keep the boredom at bay. Ultimately I decided watching the beach waves was more enjoyable than this particular beach read. Meh all around. Rounded up because one stars are reserved for books that are a personal affront to how horrendous they are.
DNF 87%. So close to finishing but I absolutely don’t care.
This book isn’t horrible but it’s far from enjoyable. A few good moments but not enough to keep the boredom at bay. Ultimately I decided watching the beach waves was more enjoyable than this particular beach read. Meh all around. Rounded up because one stars are reserved for books that are a personal affront to how horrendous they are.
March 21, 2025
2.5 ⭐️. It pains me to do this to you, Regine, but this book was a miss for me. It felt a little phoned in at times to me. This wasn’t necessarily a deal breaker since the premise was interesting.
What really knocked down my rating was the FMC and how the two mates situation was executed/handled. The FMC knows early on that she wants both MMCs, plots about it, and ultimately decides not to say anything until the situation blows up. And my god does it blow up badly! I wasn’t a huge fan of MMC 1 after the blow up, but I did sympathize with him. It felt like he got forced into a polygamous relationship that he didn’t sign up for, but was open to out of a sense of love for both of the other MC. Meanwhile, MMC 2 just deserved better all the way around.
I’m going to continue the series because I am interested in the world. I’m hoping the series gets better, and I’m going to assume that book one was a fluke.
What really knocked down my rating was the FMC and how the two mates situation was executed/handled. The FMC knows early on that she wants both MMCs, plots about it, and ultimately decides not to say anything until the situation blows up. And my god does it blow up badly! I wasn’t a huge fan of MMC 1 after the blow up, but I did sympathize with him. It felt like he got forced into a polygamous relationship that he didn’t sign up for, but was open to out of a sense of love for both of the other MC. Meanwhile, MMC 2 just deserved better all the way around.
I’m going to continue the series because I am interested in the world. I’m hoping the series gets better, and I’m going to assume that book one was a fluke.
April 3, 2017
This may be the first sci-fi I’ve ever read so I don’t have anything to compare it to. But I am a fan of the genre if other books are anything like Escaping Fate. Being the first story I’ve read by Regine Abel, I consider myself lucky that I got to read this before its release date and write a review. As far as I’m concerned I have found a writer that I truly enjoy and who’ll continue to get better over time. Honestly, I can’t understand how this book has been added to Amazon Unlimited for $0.00 and only $2.99 purchase price. Escaping Fate is of a higher caliber; I don’t believe readers will be disappointed by this purchase.
Summary: A woman who was bred, institutionalized, and imprisoned on a sex trafficking spaceship plans to escape and seek rescue on a foreign planet. Although she was protected because of her special abilities, the time had come where she too would be thrust into the sex/slave ring as a victim herself. On her journey to escape the clutches of her enemy, she discovers a new world and new people. Her bond to them is intense, as she learns their ways as they learn hers. Their common goal is to rescue other victims while dealing with mixed emotions and new relationships that become entwined.
Escaping fate would fit into any genre. The storyline is so good that if you were to change the setting to anything other than an intergalactic world, it would still be an incredible read.
This story had great flow. Its pace wouldn’t allow me to put the book down, even as my eyes were begging me to sleep. Every character contributed to the story and was intriguing, both individually and as a unit. The only reason I deducted a star, was that in some instances the author was redundant. I don’t like it when characters relay (from their POV) the same information that another did in a previous chapter. This is a waste of time, but didn’t in any way, affect the momentum or diminish my interest in the book.
Escaping Fate was a complete surprise as it raised very human issues that, despite its alien characters, makes this story relatable. The emotions that come across from each of the characters tugged at my heart strings and the battles they fought seemed all too real. Human trafficking, racism, segregation and slavery are cleverly covered up in an imaginary world, yet I couldn’t help but compare it all to the world we live in now.
This made the book feel less like sci-fi because Regine Abel brings our focus back to the journey of all the main characters with flawless precision.
This book was given to me by the author (for free) in exchange for an honest review. I was not coaxed in any way to give a good review, as my followers know, I rarely do.
Summary: A woman who was bred, institutionalized, and imprisoned on a sex trafficking spaceship plans to escape and seek rescue on a foreign planet. Although she was protected because of her special abilities, the time had come where she too would be thrust into the sex/slave ring as a victim herself. On her journey to escape the clutches of her enemy, she discovers a new world and new people. Her bond to them is intense, as she learns their ways as they learn hers. Their common goal is to rescue other victims while dealing with mixed emotions and new relationships that become entwined.
Escaping fate would fit into any genre. The storyline is so good that if you were to change the setting to anything other than an intergalactic world, it would still be an incredible read.
This story had great flow. Its pace wouldn’t allow me to put the book down, even as my eyes were begging me to sleep. Every character contributed to the story and was intriguing, both individually and as a unit. The only reason I deducted a star, was that in some instances the author was redundant. I don’t like it when characters relay (from their POV) the same information that another did in a previous chapter. This is a waste of time, but didn’t in any way, affect the momentum or diminish my interest in the book.
Escaping Fate was a complete surprise as it raised very human issues that, despite its alien characters, makes this story relatable. The emotions that come across from each of the characters tugged at my heart strings and the battles they fought seemed all too real. Human trafficking, racism, segregation and slavery are cleverly covered up in an imaginary world, yet I couldn’t help but compare it all to the world we live in now.
This made the book feel less like sci-fi because Regine Abel brings our focus back to the journey of all the main characters with flawless precision.
This book was given to me by the author (for free) in exchange for an honest review. I was not coaxed in any way to give a good review, as my followers know, I rarely do.
November 20, 2022
This was okay! I do wish she got w/ the other guy a little earlier in the book tho.
Some of the language was so un-alien like, it threw me for a loop. “awesome”, “baby” (as a pet name), “sweetie” etc etc. Took me out of the story a little bit.
Overall interesting but I’m not sure if i’ll continue with the series.
Some of the language was so un-alien like, it threw me for a loop. “awesome”, “baby” (as a pet name), “sweetie” etc etc. Took me out of the story a little bit.
Overall interesting but I’m not sure if i’ll continue with the series.
April 14, 2017
5 Amazing Out of this World Stars
Wow! What an out of this world adventure this book took me on. I was hooked from the very beginning and on the edge of my seat with all of the twists and turns. There was romance, action, adventure, danger and some very hot and steamy moments.
Amalia is a strong, brave, caring young woman about to be sent off to her captors breeding program. When the opportunity arises, she knows it is now or never to make her escape and to try to find someone who will help protect her. After hearing about the Fastening ceremony on Xelix Prime, she is torn between trying to survive on her own and going through with trying to find a mate at the ceremony.
Khel and Lhor are two cousins who have been Tainted and are in desperate need of finding a mate that can help reverse the devastating illness that they are slowly dying from. The problem is that any tainted males are looked down upon are rarely chosen by any females.
When their worlds collide will they be able to find a way to help each other?
Surrounded by corruption, how will any of them know who they can trust. When even deeper problems arises will Amalia be the key to changing the world as they know it?
A must read book for sure! You will not be disappointed. - Alisa
Wow! What an out of this world adventure this book took me on. I was hooked from the very beginning and on the edge of my seat with all of the twists and turns. There was romance, action, adventure, danger and some very hot and steamy moments.
Amalia is a strong, brave, caring young woman about to be sent off to her captors breeding program. When the opportunity arises, she knows it is now or never to make her escape and to try to find someone who will help protect her. After hearing about the Fastening ceremony on Xelix Prime, she is torn between trying to survive on her own and going through with trying to find a mate at the ceremony.
Khel and Lhor are two cousins who have been Tainted and are in desperate need of finding a mate that can help reverse the devastating illness that they are slowly dying from. The problem is that any tainted males are looked down upon are rarely chosen by any females.
When their worlds collide will they be able to find a way to help each other?
Surrounded by corruption, how will any of them know who they can trust. When even deeper problems arises will Amalia be the key to changing the world as they know it?
A must read book for sure! You will not be disappointed. - Alisa
March 8, 2017
This book is a wonderful start to a new series.
It grips from the beginning as we see Amalia plotting her escape from the slaver ship, the only home she has ever known.
The tension escalates as she escapes on Xelix Prime and attends the Fastening, where she finds her mate Khel and his cousin Lhor. Both are suffering from the Taint and didn't expect to find a woman willing to take them on. Amalia, however, is no ordinary woman!
The characters are well drawn and we watch them develop, along with their relationships, over the course of the story.
There is adventure, attempted murder, slave trafficking, and romance in the plot which moves along at a brisk pace.
Despite the pace Regine Abel builds a world, a foreign world, without resorting to info "dumping", the world builds naturally as the story progresses.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and can't wait for the next in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book
It grips from the beginning as we see Amalia plotting her escape from the slaver ship, the only home she has ever known.
The tension escalates as she escapes on Xelix Prime and attends the Fastening, where she finds her mate Khel and his cousin Lhor. Both are suffering from the Taint and didn't expect to find a woman willing to take them on. Amalia, however, is no ordinary woman!
The characters are well drawn and we watch them develop, along with their relationships, over the course of the story.
There is adventure, attempted murder, slave trafficking, and romance in the plot which moves along at a brisk pace.
Despite the pace Regine Abel builds a world, a foreign world, without resorting to info "dumping", the world builds naturally as the story progresses.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and can't wait for the next in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book
April 9, 2017
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Reading the synopsis of Escaping Fate I was immediately intrigued and knew I had to read it. I'm glad I did.
This book had me engaged and invested in the characters from the start. In particular I was drawn to the complex relationship between Khel and Lhor. As 'geminates' they are two halves of the same soul but have very different personalities and temperaments. I was fascinated by Khel and his struggle to do the right thing by those he loves whilst staying true to his Xelixian male traits.
The storyline was well paced to keep things interesting without rushing.
I particularly enjoyed learning about the variety of different alien species in the book and cannot wait to learn more.
The fact that our two males leads are dying of a disease called the taint also adds an extra dynamic to the story that makes it stand out from other fantasy/sci-fi romances.
Overall I really enjoyed Escaping Fate and will be hoping for some further stories regarding Amalia's re-emerging race and their psi abilities but I also hope Regine Abel will bring us some more angst ridden 'tainted' Xelixians!!!
Reading the synopsis of Escaping Fate I was immediately intrigued and knew I had to read it. I'm glad I did.
This book had me engaged and invested in the characters from the start. In particular I was drawn to the complex relationship between Khel and Lhor. As 'geminates' they are two halves of the same soul but have very different personalities and temperaments. I was fascinated by Khel and his struggle to do the right thing by those he loves whilst staying true to his Xelixian male traits.
The storyline was well paced to keep things interesting without rushing.
I particularly enjoyed learning about the variety of different alien species in the book and cannot wait to learn more.
The fact that our two males leads are dying of a disease called the taint also adds an extra dynamic to the story that makes it stand out from other fantasy/sci-fi romances.
Overall I really enjoyed Escaping Fate and will be hoping for some further stories regarding Amalia's re-emerging race and their psi abilities but I also hope Regine Abel will bring us some more angst ridden 'tainted' Xelixians!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2021
Intricate world build with a lot of action and on top of that there was budding relationship that turned into deeply evolved trouple relationship.
April 14, 2017
This is an engrossing and fascinating start to a series, it's unique in it's sci-fi, futuristic, fantasy. A fast paced read full of action, adventure, suspense, twists, romance and sex.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
April 15, 2017
Great book
Loved the characters and the fact that the lead female was strong but savvy enough not to put herself in danger needlessly.
Loved the characters and the fact that the lead female was strong but savvy enough not to put herself in danger needlessly.
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