He was destined to die. Until she changed his fate.
Atuk is doomed to die a slow death with his harem brothers, pining for the lost female he didn’t love and who had never wanted him. And then he meets her.
Being named a healer gives Lily a place among the tribe and provides protection for herself, her mates—Frrar, Tor, Arruk, and Drrak—and the two shevari children they’ve adopted. But when she’s tasked with saving Atuk, her growing feelings for him threaten to undo all she and her mates have fought for.
What she feels for him isn’t just reckless, it shouldn’t be possible. Males can’t mate twice...can they? When a stolen moment has sparks flying between them, it makes her question everything.
How much is Lily willing to risk for the captivating male with a galaxy of hurt in his eyes? And if she Chooses him, will he Choose her back?
Or will their forbidden love bring everything crashing down around them?
Stacy Jones is an award-winning romance author living in beautiful Hot Springs, Arkansas. She can usually be found at her desk, with an oversized coffee cup, bringing the fantastical worlds and captivating characters in her imagination to life.
A beautiful story, surprisingly full of emotional depth, despite being an RH with aliens.
Primitive alien world Reverse harem Language barrier (but learning) Sweet/innocent heroes Strong/kind fmc Tails/Purring Matriarchal society
My favorite are still the first two books in the series. Sometimes stories like these tend to get overly complicated with additional men, kids, and alien politics.
Books 1-4 must be read in order, not a standalone.
To start, to say that I adored this 4th book of Lily and her guys doesn't seem enough. Originally, book 3 in the series had an epilogue that included a brief mention of some of what happens in this story and I was fine with that, I didn't know what I didn't know. Now having read Native, Lily and Atuk's part of her love story needed to be shared, it was such a beautiful journey of forbidden feelings, worry over others' judgement, and finding acceptance and true love. There's also plenty of love and support still going strong between Lily and her other 4 mates, although Tor is still scared of her eyebrows which will never cease to crack me up. Also, steam, cause yeah, these guys do that well too.
Mixed in with the love story, we also see the impact that the battle from book 3 has had on the tribe's lives. Lily is active as a Healer and sadly, we see the devastation of Skaa's disappearance on two of her mates. We also get amazing time with Skaa's children as they've been adopted by Lily and her mates, who have a lot to learn about parenting young Shevari. Side characters help build a more complete picture of daily life and I'm really hoping for one of these side character's own love story at some point. There's also more to see of this alien planet and wildlife, plus an absolutely amazing, heart-full feeling surprise close to the end that had me tearing up in happiness.
Ms. Jones's Chosen series was my first foray into aliens that look like aliens romance and this series will always hold a special place for that, in addition to how amazing it is. Native is a wonderful and emotional continuation of that story. Ms. Jones just knows how to write all-around fulfilling tales of main characters falling in love with the perfect alien men for them. I hope she never stops.
As a note, there is a glossary at the end of the book that's super helpful and there's also character art for visualization of each of Lily's amazing men.
Ended up reading all 4 in one day. I do hope this isn't the end. I really thought the dude with wings was going to be part of her harem. Like, where was he in this book?
Fun and sweet series. Will definitely be reading more by this author.
I have missed these characters and this world so much so I dove right in. I love Lily and her 4 aliens. They are ridiculously cute! Then cue mate #5 Atuk. What's happening between them is unbelievable and put Lily right back in the spotlight with the Tribe. All of her men are ready to defend her and are very accepting of the unexpected turn. I adored everything about this - the relationship between all of them, the kids, the pets. There were lots of hilarious moments and then the citri moment that had me tearing up. The development with the kids had lots of ups & downs which was pretty realistic. Overall this was such a great read, well written and a good story arc; and I loved spending every page with my favorite 5 now 6 aliens plus kids and pets :)
I've been a long time fan of the Chosen series, having read and reread the original three books multiple times. Those books released years ago so I never thought there would be a fourth book even though I desperately wanted this story to continue. I happen to be on the FB group and Stacy made a post that she was *surprise* working on a fourth book and I've been politely stalking her since then.
And folks? Book four did NOT disappoint.
If you're in the tldr camp, below is my quick synopsis. If you want details, then by all means, read on! 😘
Ratings Character building: 👽👽👽👽👽 World building: 🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎 Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 (oooh, this one was shiver inducing) Suspense: 💣💣 Action: 🍿🍿🍿 Drama: 👀👀👀 Romance: 💓💓💓💓💓 Multiple POVs: YES Ending: HFN (open for more coming!) Cliffhanger: No (or...only if you want there to be one 😉)
The Deets:
I was a bit worried that since so much time had passed, the writing may have changed or the characters may "feel" different. None of that was true. Turning page one was as smooth of a transition as if it was a continuation of book three. I was instantly back in this world with its fascinating planet, unusually sentient plant and animal life, and sweet alpha males.
Book four has less action and suspense than the original trilogy but it's by no means lacking in intensity. Instead of constant danger, fighting, and running, book four is more of a relationship book. There is the growth of the original group settling into the Shevari tribe and figuring out how to integrate but keep enough distance so their unique relationship does not create problems with the tribe. There is the growth of the tribe, figuring out how to accept and appreciate Lily's differences. There is the angst and sweet romance between Lily and Atuk as he struggles to believe anyone could ever accept and desire him with his differences. Book four is a downright sweet angsty steamy story.
Sweet Heat One of the primary reasons I'm so enthralled with this story is the sweet alpha vibe of the guys. I'm not generally a fan of enemies to lovers or stories heavy on domination/humiliation. Sometimes you just need to read some "sweet heat" and the guys in this story are the perfect blend of sweet and alpha. They are growly protective while at the same time being appreciative and respectful of their woman. I love every single one of them.
Unique Heroes I appreciate that Stacy builds the harem over time (other than the initial three which come as a package deal). With that slower approach, and the multiple points of view (which she does seamlessly), we really get to know each character. For all that these guys share the same traits of being sweet and protective and curious, they never blend into the same character. They each have their own "voice" and they each bring something important to the family. It really feels like a family. I find myself grinning and swooning through all their interactions. These guys are not just side characters to the fmc. They are main characters, with there own damage, fears, insecurities and dreams.
World Building I love the way Stacy describes the plant and animal life. This planet is so lush and beautiful in my mind. From the dancing flowers to the beautiful Arrawaa bird (possible deity?). Even the way the planet interacts with the inhabitants is fascinating.
Not to turn this into a social platform but it's interesting to read about a reverse society, where the females are the dominant gender and males who struggle with "perfect submission" are ostracized. Bottom line, no society thrives under domination/subjugation.
If you're reading reviews on book four then you've most likely read the other books in the series and know that in addition to writing this story, the author created a language for the native people. I sort of loved that in this fourth book she's using more of the Shevari language (with less translation). Sort of forcing us to learn the language, lol. It's working though. I'm picking it up!
If you made it to this point let me leave you with my FIRM recommendation that you put aside other stories in your tbr and jump this beautiful sweet heat story right to the top!
I really wasn't impressed with this one. I skimmed over 50% of it and I got the gist perfectly.
Again, it's repetitive. It's recycled material. And the author intends to write more? Idk how that's gonna go. Maybe I'll pick it up if it has the right plot line, but if not, I'll skip it entirely.
Atuk was hot, but I was tired of the back and forth and "I don't deserve you" trope.
I would not reread this and I don't think I would recommend it either unless you're in love with the series.
I'm so glad the author decided to continue this series. There are still so many unanswered questions. Poor Atuk was full of self-loathing and it takes Lily and her mates quite a while to get his head out of his ass. The kids and pet pantari are great. Can't wait to find out more about Skarr. I am curious if Lily will ever . I keep waiting for it to happen.
Mehashk frrn! 🤭 I loved this series so much! It has become one of my favorite RH series. It's so sweet, with lots of world building and relationship development. The plot mostly focuses on Lily and her mates, but I believe there will be more books that will explore the slavers and other possibilities. The thing I loved the most about the series is how great the world building is. I loved the language and there was a moment that I could understand without the need to translate. The shevari culture and how different it is from human culture is so nice and fun. I was a bit uncertain about a new mate in the harem, but damn Atuk did not disappoint! One thing I'm on the fence about are the kids. I find it weird that Lily and her mates will take care of them only for their mother to return. I'd rather Skaa was dead to be honest. I imagine her shock when she comes back and finds out not only two of her mates are dead, but her third one is mated to another. It just felt like they were the placeholders, waiting for the bio mom to come back.
Overall, I loved the series and will certainly read it again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I was so happy when I realized this book was coming out, I adored this series and I hated how the third book ended because it left so much opened.
Seeing Lily and her mates grew as a family was so cute, it was slow paced and we got to see how they manage as a family. Atuk's backstory was very emotional and it was so sweet to see him and Lily bond and eventually mate.
I felt a mixed of both happiness and annoyance at knowing this is not the end, although in reality I should have seen that because so many questions were still not answered.
So much love to share! I love being back in this world with Lily and her unusual Shevari mates. Lily is attracted to Atuk, a male she is caring for as a healer. Atuk feels the same attraction, but he is so conflicted, and unsure of acceptance. This is one wild ride! There are ups and downs, as each one deals with their feelings, troubles of other sorts must be heeded, young ones to be guided - so very much happening. Atur and Sahas are sweethearts, with delightful personalities. It’s interesting to see how they process everything that happens. I adore Trrak, Lily’s pet panteri. He’s quite an amazing creature, behaving so well, acting like another caretaker for those adventurous kids. There are truths found here that resonate to all - be yourself, not who you think others want you to be. Words to live by.
No strong representation of diverse characters or minority identities.
Overall: 5-stars
I'm SO happy Stacy has decided to continue the Chosen series! I always felt the epilogue of book #3 (Tribe Protector) didn't really wrap things up. And, even with this book, there are so many plot points that still need addressing, although I'm happy Lily's new mate, Atuk, finally gets his story told. I'm also thinking there will be a cross-over with Stacy's Taken series (first book: Aria's Awakening), although I don't know how well that will go over considering the Tribe has no exposure to technology.
Overall, I cannot wait for the next book in this series! Lily's husbands are so freaking funny.
Wow! This series just keeps getting better. Honestly, I often find myself losing interest in a series around the third or fourth book. I think that’s because a lot of authors draw out the story with needless details and filler. I didn’t feel that way at all about these books.
Jones has done a good job of character development with the heroine and each of the heroes—they feel distinct and I like them all. This book had more angst than the previous ones, and a lot of the story had to do with emotional issues and growth, but I really liked the addition of Atuk, along with the kids and pets (where can I get a citri?).
I appreciate how loving and supportive the guys all are, not just with Lily, but with each other. They may have different personalities, but one thing they all have in common is how caring they are. Even so, they are capable of being fierce protectors when needed. It’s refreshing change from the typical alphas that dominate the alien romance genre (and romance in general, probably). While I enjoy those characters too, it’s nice to see males being portrayed as kind and strong.
It's been awhile, but I was so excited to read about the next chapter for Lily and her guys! This story was a total surprise. Lily is caring for Skaa's pining mates, but Atuk seems to be recovering. Could Atuk be imprinting on Lily? Is there a chance for them or will this ruin Lily's status with the tribe? Let me tell you, this story is FULL of steamy episodes with Frarr, Tor, Arruk, and Drrak. Stacy kind of outdid herself in this reverse harem. They are all learning to become parents because they've been caring for Sahas and Atur, Skaa's children. There's some great adventures with Trrak, Lily's pantari. And you will get another surprise for Lily later in the book. If you're a fan, it's SUCH a good one. I fell in love with Atuk and I think you will, too. He's the perfect Shevari male - at least from the outside. Find out if Lily's love is limitless... Captivating story! 4 stars
This book was okay, but didn't quite live up to the original three books. I was super excited to see that there was a fourth book, because I thought it was a trilogy, but it was just kind of meh and more of the same. Maybe it has been too long since I read the other books, but I also found it a lot harder to follow the alien language.
I do love me some space smut, and Stacy always provides me with the goods! I was so thrilled to see her jumping back into the Chosen world as the epilogue in book three drops the fact she has a fifth mate then doesn't give us the goods!
This book definitely delivers all of the feels, though! You get to revisit the best alien harem (IMO) and learn how they cope with becoming adoptive parents, get some lovely pet time (love Trrak and Seri) and get a whole new romance story! This book really helps round out the series.
I'm soooo very excited that we'll be getting more in this universe! And hopefully, a crossover with the Aria's Awakening Taken series!
The FMC Lily is adorable. Honestly, she's got so much love to give, and I love how she's grown over the series and has settled into alien life. The romance between her and Atuk is great to watch - especially with the message of being who you are even if it doesn't conform to society.
The Guys, Frrar, Tor, Arruk, Drrak, & Atuk! I love these guys so much as individuals and as brothers. Honestly, it was so amazing to see the established harem welcome in the newbie, Atuk. They all want what's best for Lily, and it really comes through. Atuk is the star in this book as it's essentially his story with Lily.
The Smut I love a good group scene. Stacy doesn't do crazy orgys where it's peens flying left and centre, but more a one after the other type of scene - which, if we're honest, seems more achievable IRL 😜 It's hot as hell and draws out the steam!
*Due to the Many Various type of Language Barriers I will put them in One of Three Categories. Language Barrier(?): Yes.
****But I also want to point out how much I LOOOOVE(!!) the Language Glossary & Glossary for this world (at the end of the book), I love it when authors are willing to go to that much detail 🥰
Language Barrier - Temporary, Semi or Permanent(?): Semi.
*Permanent is where >both main characters/significant others< speak their own languages but cannot understand each other so they have to rely on using either various basic words, sounds or gestures to get a point across, and there is no mechanical solution or it’s unable to be used. *Semi Permanent is where one or both teach each other their language and can at some point speak near fluent and may or may not have a mechanical solution at some point, but in the end can go without mechanical help but the option is there. *Temporary is where there IS a mechanical solution to fix the language barriers between significant others permanently. No future issues.
After seeing that the 3rd book was supposed to be the last one and there was so many unanswered questions, I was glad that the author decided to revisit the series. Most of the book was about Atuk imprinting on Lily after the disappearance of Skaa. Her two mates, while holding, on are still dying a slow death despite all Lily's done to care for them. I liked seeing how Atuk fit into the harem and him getting along with them. I'll admit the whole 'not good enough' got tedious at times but I'm not a fan of angst in general. Even though I knew it was coming, I was surprisingly teary-eyed when Atuk's harem brothers died. Once again Saha did something reckless to get on my nerves. I swear she annoys me just as much as the last book. I'm disappointed that there was still no answers since the last book. There was too much insertion of alien language and I was taken out of the story trying to understand what was being said. The plot of the missing tribes is never wrapped up. No one wonders if Lily can get pregnant? Hope the next book has answers but after four books with nothing, I don't have much hope.
Omg aww I loved Seri I couldn't stop crying I actually sobbed my eyes off I'm so thankful that Lily found her and her babies I can't tell who Seri is but you will loved her. Now I want to thank Stacy for writing book 4 because I was so sad when book 3 finished that I thought I never get to see Lily and her guys again and wow another hottie *sighs* Atuk is a real sweetheart and it's great to see their relationship grow. This book makes me fan my self, it's scorchingly hot hot hot.... Ok Tor he is adorable and funny as I can't believed he's still think Lily's eye brows are creatures hahaha he is hilarious. And the Kids aww I love Atur he is the sweetest and Sahas I guess is a typical pasha very bossy and Trrak aww he is grown up. I can't wait for another book and I do hope that there will be more human women because there are lots of unmated Shavari males.
Giddy! This book had me totally giddy. If you haven’t picked up on it yet, I’m a rather big fan of Stacy Jones’ books and this one did not disappoint. The Chosen series is one of my all time favourites, and getting another chapter in Lily’s story was absolutely awesome. First of all, seeing Lily and her guys together and part of the tribe, I’m totally giddy. Lily being accepted and valued as a healer, settling into her new life, was so wonderful. Not to mention, her loving and steamy af relationship with Frrar, Tor, Arruk and Drrak. And then there’s Atuk. He’s supposed to be fading away with his brothers. But he was never quite the same as them. Somewhere along the way, he SEES Lily, and Lily sees him. And everything is just wow, and hot, and sweet, and ..... and he’s having to find the courage to open himself up to her. And she’s facing her feelings for him. And they’re all facing the possibility that this all might be a problem with the tribe! All while being parents to two newly orphaned children. And I just could not stop reading! I love Lily for her kindness and strength and pragmatism. Her ability to face things head on with caring and thoughtfulness, has me constantly longing for things to work out for her. Atuk is patient and considerate, and a wonderful parent, and I was constantly longing for things to work out for him too! (And I can’t not mention that there’s some HAWT scenes in there!) This story had me hooked, it just flew by, and seeing all their relationships develop and come together was so heartwarming. I loved getting back into this world, and I’m sure to find myself having another reread of this whole series.
My favorite book in this series so far!! I think BECAUSE it wasn't originally planned, it came from a depth of feeling in the author that isn't always there in a book. Books that just HAVE to be written because there's more story to tell seem to turn out amazing!! I cried more than once during this book, where I didn't cry at all through the rest. I liked the other books well enough, but this one stood out from the others. Well done!!
I really like this series. Always checking to see if an other book is out. The only thing with this book is the different language spoken in it. I have no idea what they were saying and there was no interpretation. So yeah that was pretty frustrating. Other than that I would recommend this one for you to read.
Oh my gosh I just loved these characters. The love between them was awesome and hot. The world building was absolutely beautiful and amazing. I have so been looking forward to more in this series and I am so happy there will be more. I can't tell you enough how excited I am. I highly recommend this book and this series.
Even though I expected everything to happen thanks to last book I'd still reread this again. All the awesomeness and wholesome scenes mixed with sext times was fabulous. Loved the tiny cliffhanger at the end and excited to see how the story progresses. Great artworks of the guys. Can't wait to read more. JL
This was a nice ending to Lily's story. It wasn't as exciting as the other books, but I liked it. I thought it ended on a really nice note. There is obviously going to be a spin off. And I'll definitely be reading it.
Another HIT by Stacy Jones. I have been waiting for this book and it didn’t disappoint. I had all the feels, it was funny, romantic and it even made me cry. It was definitely worth the wait and now I have to “patiently” 😅 wait for the next one. Do read it.