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Brute Force
Stripped of my dignity and locked in a cage.
My only chance for freedom?
A savage alien brute...
I am the rightful queen of Xaridia. In theory at least. But in reality, I’ve been betrayed by those closest to me. Locked away in a cage.
I am not alone, however.
My new neighbor is a captured Dugorim warlord, the enemy of my people. He is a massive brute of an alien. Seven feet of bulging muscles and growling dominance.
I am grateful for the wall of bars separating us. This beast could easily tear me apart.
But he says he has a plan for escape. His species has a protective instinct that makes him strong enough to bend solid steel.
There’s just one little problem...
For his instinct to manifest, he requires a mate. And the way he’s looking at me through those bars tells me who he has in mind. That look makes me flush with shame and quiver with anticipation.
To what lengths am I willing to go to win my freedom?
Am I willing to submit to the alien’s plan?
Am I willing to kneel before him?
My only chance for freedom?
A savage alien brute...
I am the rightful queen of Xaridia. In theory at least. But in reality, I’ve been betrayed by those closest to me. Locked away in a cage.
I am not alone, however.
My new neighbor is a captured Dugorim warlord, the enemy of my people. He is a massive brute of an alien. Seven feet of bulging muscles and growling dominance.
I am grateful for the wall of bars separating us. This beast could easily tear me apart.
But he says he has a plan for escape. His species has a protective instinct that makes him strong enough to bend solid steel.
There’s just one little problem...
For his instinct to manifest, he requires a mate. And the way he’s looking at me through those bars tells me who he has in mind. That look makes me flush with shame and quiver with anticipation.
To what lengths am I willing to go to win my freedom?
Am I willing to submit to the alien’s plan?
Am I willing to kneel before him?
176 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2021
204 people are currently reading
385 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
October 11, 2024
*3.5* Filthy, ridiculous and fun.
Imprisoned alien warlord
Human queen
Size difference
Breeding
Sex while in two separate cells
I’m going to send a hot load down her gullet, followed shortly thereafter by another into her womb.
The fact that he uses the word “thereafter“ in his internal dialogue just shows what a classy hero he is.
Imprisoned alien warlord
Human queen
Size difference
Breeding
Sex while in two separate cells
I’m going to send a hot load down her gullet, followed shortly thereafter by another into her womb.
The fact that he uses the word “thereafter“ in his internal dialogue just shows what a classy hero he is.
May 19, 2021
Inventive and Sweet!!
I love stories that are different. Love stories that are outside of the norm. That's one of the reasons I love Lizzy Bequin. Her stories are always creative and something you won't have read anywhere else. There was a point in this one where I stopped reading and thought, "How does someone come up with this?" In a good way though, a very kinky way, but a good way none the less.
When Fiorinda, becomes Queen after the death of her father, she feels that she can take a different path to finally bring their planet peace, and end the war between humans and the Dugorim. Like with all government it seems though, the shiesty backstabbers had no desire to give up their power. The schemers devise a plan to force Fiorinda under their thumbs, but they didn't anticipate her resolve and fortitude to be free and enact change.
I loved Fiorinda. She was one tough cookie. I like a girl that will do what it takes to get the job done lol. G'rakk is dominant with a sweet streak. He melted my heart and heated up the ole' lady bits too.
I need to find this kind of love, a love that lasts forever.
This was a quick sweet yet spicy read. There was some crazy shenanigans going on down in the dungeon, and G'rakk is all alien, yet HEAs abound with teases to the future.
Even though this is an ARC review, I will always shoot you straight. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love stories that are different. Love stories that are outside of the norm. That's one of the reasons I love Lizzy Bequin. Her stories are always creative and something you won't have read anywhere else. There was a point in this one where I stopped reading and thought, "How does someone come up with this?" In a good way though, a very kinky way, but a good way none the less.
When Fiorinda, becomes Queen after the death of her father, she feels that she can take a different path to finally bring their planet peace, and end the war between humans and the Dugorim. Like with all government it seems though, the shiesty backstabbers had no desire to give up their power. The schemers devise a plan to force Fiorinda under their thumbs, but they didn't anticipate her resolve and fortitude to be free and enact change.
I loved Fiorinda. She was one tough cookie. I like a girl that will do what it takes to get the job done lol. G'rakk is dominant with a sweet streak. He melted my heart and heated up the ole' lady bits too.
I need to find this kind of love, a love that lasts forever.
“And what about after I die?” I ask him.
“Then I will die too. I will follow you into the afterdeath, so my spirit can continue to protect yours. When your heart ceases to beat, mine will cease with it.”
“You are able to control your heart like that?”
“No, but you are.”
This was a quick sweet yet spicy read. There was some crazy shenanigans going on down in the dungeon, and G'rakk is all alien, yet HEAs abound with teases to the future.
Even though this is an ARC review, I will always shoot you straight. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 8, 2024
I have no idea what I just read. And why. I blame Gloria and her review.
It is just mediocre smut.
2.5
It is just mediocre smut.
2.5
May 25, 2021
OK….so wow. I DID NOT expect this to be this good. I picked it up for a quick smutty read but the writing and the story were very good. Fiorinda has become Queen after the death of her father and wants to end the war between humans and the Dugorim (the native alien species on the planet). When Fiorinda lets her advisors, stepmother and husband (in name only) know this, she is thrown into the dungeon. Fiorinda wishes for peace but they wish for war and complete annihilation of the Dugorim.
Thrown into the dungeon, Fiorinda quickly realizes she is imprisoned next to a Dugorim named G’rakk. G’rakk once thought there could be peace between their people but that only got him thrown into the dungeon for years. Upon seeing Fio, he devises a plan that could help them escape and exact revenge on Fio’s stepmother and husband. But the price is Fio. In order for G’rakk to acquire the strength to bust them out of the prison, she must become his mate. Can Fio and G’rakk find love despite the circumstances? Can Fio get her revenge on her stepmother and husband? Will G’rakk finally get the life and mate he has dreamed of?
Fio was a great character...she was strong and resilient and I really loved her. G’rakk was dominant and dirty with a sweetness only for his mate. This was a dirty read but I was here for it. I only wish there had been more story about them outside of the prison. I really wanted to read more about them and their life. But I loved the tease for the next book. Overall, a pretty solid smutty alien romance.
Thrown into the dungeon, Fiorinda quickly realizes she is imprisoned next to a Dugorim named G’rakk. G’rakk once thought there could be peace between their people but that only got him thrown into the dungeon for years. Upon seeing Fio, he devises a plan that could help them escape and exact revenge on Fio’s stepmother and husband. But the price is Fio. In order for G’rakk to acquire the strength to bust them out of the prison, she must become his mate. Can Fio and G’rakk find love despite the circumstances? Can Fio get her revenge on her stepmother and husband? Will G’rakk finally get the life and mate he has dreamed of?
Fio was a great character...she was strong and resilient and I really loved her. G’rakk was dominant and dirty with a sweetness only for his mate. This was a dirty read but I was here for it. I only wish there had been more story about them outside of the prison. I really wanted to read more about them and their life. But I loved the tease for the next book. Overall, a pretty solid smutty alien romance.
October 7, 2024
2.5 stars
It’s a fairy tale: Evil stepmother and young queen’s evil husband deposes young queen and throws her into the dungeon with a dangerous dragon.
It’s science-fi: the dangerous dragon is really just a large, brutal alien.
It’s smut: the large, brutal alien can get them out of the dungeon if the young queen consents to mate with him, including prep work.
Turns out fairy tale sci-fi smut is a lot like regular smut, only with ginormous alien penises.
(Giggle.)
It’s a fairy tale: Evil stepmother and young queen’s evil husband deposes young queen and throws her into the dungeon with a dangerous dragon.
It’s science-fi: the dangerous dragon is really just a large, brutal alien.
It’s smut: the large, brutal alien can get them out of the dungeon if the young queen consents to mate with him, including prep work.
Turns out fairy tale sci-fi smut is a lot like regular smut, only with ginormous alien penises.
(Giggle.)
December 12, 2025
So much better than expected
I needed a mindless, unhinged plot such as only Bequin can write to take my mind off the fact my mom is going home after a lengthy visit and not only did this do the trick, it was better than expected?
So short yet I connected with both MCs and the ending was surprisingly satisfying despite its realism. I think it's because of it that I liked it so much.
(if you're not familiar with her work, thread with caution, because despite this one being on the mild side for her, it's still very much a dark sci-fi romance)
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
I needed a mindless, unhinged plot such as only Bequin can write to take my mind off the fact my mom is going home after a lengthy visit and not only did this do the trick, it was better than expected?
So short yet I connected with both MCs and the ending was surprisingly satisfying despite its realism. I think it's because of it that I liked it so much.
(if you're not familiar with her work, thread with caution, because despite this one being on the mild side for her, it's still very much a dark sci-fi romance)
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬
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January 31, 2023
I don't remember where the recommendation for Brute Force by this new to me author came from but boy am I happy to have read it. For starters this book is super short, and the story is pretty much glossed over, but I totally enjoyed myself. It was filled with smutty goodness, and I hope we get a book featuring Fiorinda and G'rakk's son.
November 9, 2022
This was an instalove story of deliciousness. It wasn't super smutty, it wasn't super deep, but it definitely hit the spot just right.
She was sitting in her own dungeon for daring to want peace. He was sitting there because he was an alpha alien. They couldn't be any more different, but they had a common goal: freedom.
And the method of gaining that freedom was both ridiculous and entertaining. Mating to gain invincible strength. Mating through bars. Hilarious and hot!
And the epilogue, with everything coming full circle with their son... amazing!
She was sitting in her own dungeon for daring to want peace. He was sitting there because he was an alpha alien. They couldn't be any more different, but they had a common goal: freedom.
And the method of gaining that freedom was both ridiculous and entertaining. Mating to gain invincible strength. Mating through bars. Hilarious and hot!
And the epilogue, with everything coming full circle with their son... amazing!
May 24, 2021
So much potential, but not quite there!
I really liked the concept of this novella. I actually think it would have been much better if it had been longer and the story had been more developed. Things moved at warp speed after G’rakk and Fio escaped the prison. I feel like there was so much story left to tell but the end of the book felt incredibly rushed. Because this was so short there wasn’t much relationship building between h and H. The majority of their relationship was when they were in the prison together, but that was only for 2 days (despite taking up about 80% of the book), then they escaped, then all of a sudden it was 9 months later and they were in love.
I also thought there were some really odd word choices that completely ruined some of the sex scenes for me. Like “vagina” or “penis”. It was so clinical and out of place for the smutty scenes!
Overall, this book didn’t live up to its full potential. I liked it, but I didn’t love it, and I’m not invested enough to continue on with the story.
I really liked the concept of this novella. I actually think it would have been much better if it had been longer and the story had been more developed. Things moved at warp speed after G’rakk and Fio escaped the prison. I feel like there was so much story left to tell but the end of the book felt incredibly rushed. Because this was so short there wasn’t much relationship building between h and H. The majority of their relationship was when they were in the prison together, but that was only for 2 days (despite taking up about 80% of the book), then they escaped, then all of a sudden it was 9 months later and they were in love.
I also thought there were some really odd word choices that completely ruined some of the sex scenes for me. Like “vagina” or “penis”. It was so clinical and out of place for the smutty scenes!
Overall, this book didn’t live up to its full potential. I liked it, but I didn’t love it, and I’m not invested enough to continue on with the story.
January 31, 2022
So even though this one was a nice change of pace by this author(One Male, one female love story), it was still just an "alright" read for me.
This one is more of a Novella type with a few more chapters involved. But it's packed with story. It just didn't go as deep or as intense that I was hoping it would, regarding these characters. All the ingredients are there for this story. It was interesting. It's just the execution of how it all played out, left a lot to be desired for me.
I did like the final two chapters and the Epilogue was decent too. That's what got this one to the 3 *** mark.
It's a decent read, but still could be better, IMO.
I would recommend this read though.
This one is more of a Novella type with a few more chapters involved. But it's packed with story. It just didn't go as deep or as intense that I was hoping it would, regarding these characters. All the ingredients are there for this story. It was interesting. It's just the execution of how it all played out, left a lot to be desired for me.
I did like the final two chapters and the Epilogue was decent too. That's what got this one to the 3 *** mark.
It's a decent read, but still could be better, IMO.
I would recommend this read though.
February 3, 2022
4.5 stars.
Ok.
So this was hot.
This was enemies to hesitant lovers, sort of mating of convenience alien addition. With forced proximity, mates, and hot hate sex.
The plot is pretty simple, and the book is short so we get into things fairly quickly, which I didn’t mind.
It’s smuttastic, honestly.
Not exactly what I was expecting, but definitely what I wanted.
I wish we got more time with the Dugorim clan, to learn the culture and see these two interact after they escape.
But it was super hot regardless and I enjoyed what we did get.
That epilogue was pretty amusing in its sort of full circle irony, too.
Ok.
So this was hot.
This was enemies to hesitant lovers, sort of mating of convenience alien addition. With forced proximity, mates, and hot hate sex.
The plot is pretty simple, and the book is short so we get into things fairly quickly, which I didn’t mind.
It’s smuttastic, honestly.
Not exactly what I was expecting, but definitely what I wanted.
I wish we got more time with the Dugorim clan, to learn the culture and see these two interact after they escape.
But it was super hot regardless and I enjoyed what we did get.
That epilogue was pretty amusing in its sort of full circle irony, too.
February 22, 2025
I have to give it some credit for being different and reaaaaally going there. This is weird alien smut, if that’s what you’re in the market for. Ridiculous and kinda gross while also being entertaining. Prisoners, breeding kink, size difference. I don’t like this kind of size difference, it messes with my brain and scares me to think about, so I shrunk him down some in my head.
If you want some alien smut but are tired of the Ice Planet Barbarian formula, this is for you. It’s definitely different. The writing is not great, and I didn’t find it to be particularly sexy, but it was interesting and I was entertained for about half the book. I was in it for the "sex from two different prison cells" bit, like with the bars between them. It wasn't done to my liking, but that part was the most interesting.
I skimmed after the 70% mark.
If you want some alien smut but are tired of the Ice Planet Barbarian formula, this is for you. It’s definitely different. The writing is not great, and I didn’t find it to be particularly sexy, but it was interesting and I was entertained for about half the book. I was in it for the "sex from two different prison cells" bit, like with the bars between them. It wasn't done to my liking, but that part was the most interesting.
I skimmed after the 70% mark.
May 23, 2021
A short read Novella but a pretty fast paced steamy one too. Two sworn enemies have to work together to escape a prison that theyve both been put into. Except they not only have to trust each other they also have to have sex. A steamy twist. I actually liked Florinda and G'raak. They started out hating each other but with time they find out that they have much more in common than they think. I really enjoyed reading this book but my only criticism is that i wish it had been a longer read
May 23, 2021
Fantastic! A little different from other books but loved it. Fiorinda has lost her father, the king. Despite his rule, she wishes for change. Sadly, her stepmother and husband, in name only, wish to continue the war with G'rakk's people. He explains a way out of the dungeon that eventually leads to a strong bond forming between them. It was a lovely read and wonderful characters. I look forward to more of Atys and his 'soon' to be mate!
May 21, 2021
I really enjoyed the merger of fairytale aspects with Lizzy Bequin’s typical sci-fi romance storytelling style. And I particularly like Grakk’s spin on the North Wind - Sun fable (wink, wink). The story is short yet completely satisfying - a perfect quick and hot read.
May 25, 2021
Fast, delightful read!
What fun! This is a captive romance with a twist: both the delicious hero and his heroine are at the mercy of their mutual enemies. Can the find enough common ground to escape? Read on to find out. It’s a delicious, steamy romp of a story that will leave you with a glow as bright as an alien sunrise.
Highly recommended.
What fun! This is a captive romance with a twist: both the delicious hero and his heroine are at the mercy of their mutual enemies. Can the find enough common ground to escape? Read on to find out. It’s a delicious, steamy romp of a story that will leave you with a glow as bright as an alien sunrise.
Highly recommended.
December 17, 2025
Well that was fun. Very silly and ridiculous but fun nonetheless.
May 20, 2021
Princess Fiorinda is a human living during the human occupation of the alien planet Xaridia, once belonging to native Dugorim aliens. The sole heir to the throne, she became queen upon her father's death. Her first act as queen was a decree to try and establish diplomatic relations with the Dugorim and end the war between the two species- one that greatly displeased her counsel, stepmother, and husband. Betrayed, she is thrown into the dungeon and her throne usurped.
G'rakk is a Dugorim warlord captured in battle and has spent the last five years as a prisoner locked away in the dungeon. He is aggressive, angry, and savage. Locked side-by-side in adjacent cells separated only by prison bars, can they find a way to work together and escape?
I really enjoyed this story. It all very felt believable with human occupation of a land that isn't theirs and war against the native peoples. The plot to overthrow a young queen deemed not fit to rule by those who crave power also felt very believable. I enjoyed this aspect of the book the most- as well as getting a conclusion to this story arc by the end of the book instead of it fading away in favor of a couple's relationship storyline.
The relationship itself was okay. It took me a whilleee to warm up to G'rakk. He just rubbed me the wrong way through a lot of the book. Aggressive- one of those males who's determined to get what he wants and not care about anyone else's will. While most of the chapters are from Fiorinda's point of view, we also get a few from G'rakk's. At one point he thinks, "If these bars were not separating us...there would be nothing, nothing she could do about it. I would impose my will upon her." (I omitted sentences in between to avoid spoilers) It was just a big turn off to me. He grew on me later when he actually started to care about Fiorinda more and lost that 'beat-into-submission' vibe. (Just to be clear, there was no physical abuse between the two- he never beat her. I only mean his way of thinking.)
In spite of my opinion on G'rakk, I still enjoyed the story. And I'm sure there will be people who will like his assertive, dominating attitude. As someone who would not like that in a real relationship, I didn't. But fantasy is fantasy. Brute Force is still a good read by a good author, and I do recommend reading this book. 3.5 stars
G'rakk is a Dugorim warlord captured in battle and has spent the last five years as a prisoner locked away in the dungeon. He is aggressive, angry, and savage. Locked side-by-side in adjacent cells separated only by prison bars, can they find a way to work together and escape?
I really enjoyed this story. It all very felt believable with human occupation of a land that isn't theirs and war against the native peoples. The plot to overthrow a young queen deemed not fit to rule by those who crave power also felt very believable. I enjoyed this aspect of the book the most- as well as getting a conclusion to this story arc by the end of the book instead of it fading away in favor of a couple's relationship storyline.
The relationship itself was okay. It took me a whilleee to warm up to G'rakk. He just rubbed me the wrong way through a lot of the book. Aggressive- one of those males who's determined to get what he wants and not care about anyone else's will. While most of the chapters are from Fiorinda's point of view, we also get a few from G'rakk's. At one point he thinks, "If these bars were not separating us...there would be nothing, nothing she could do about it. I would impose my will upon her." (I omitted sentences in between to avoid spoilers) It was just a big turn off to me. He grew on me later when he actually started to care about Fiorinda more and lost that 'beat-into-submission' vibe. (Just to be clear, there was no physical abuse between the two- he never beat her. I only mean his way of thinking.)
In spite of my opinion on G'rakk, I still enjoyed the story. And I'm sure there will be people who will like his assertive, dominating attitude. As someone who would not like that in a real relationship, I didn't. But fantasy is fantasy. Brute Force is still a good read by a good author, and I do recommend reading this book. 3.5 stars
May 27, 2021
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Fiorinda has ascended to the throne after the death of her father only to find her stepmother and husband have conspired to take the throne from her, all because she wants to work out a peace agreement between her human people and a tribe of aliens known as Dugorim. She ends up in a dark, dank cell in the dungeon under the castle. In the cell next to her is a Dugorim warlord by the name of G'rakk. Huge, brutish and a prisoner since Fiorinda was a child, he tells her the only way they can escape is for her to mate with him. But the catch is that they both have to be compatible with each other and to find out if they are, she has to allow him to smell her, then she has to suck him off, then lose her virginity to him. The situation is made worse by the fact that she is very popular with her people and her stepmother and husband decide to have her appear in public via video link to lull the locals into thinking she is out of sight because she is mourning the death of her father all the while they are working together to have her "disappear". Realizing there is no way out of the dungeon except to agree to G'rakk's offer she is thrust into an adventure of survival like no other. Will things change for her and G'rakk once they are free of the city. How will she survive in a colony of alien beasts who have long been enemies of the humans who rule the kingdom.
Only Lizzy Bequin can think of stories like this and then put the ideas together to create a story that you just can't put down - no matter how hungry or thirsty you get. It's literally a case of - "I'll just read one more chapter", then before you realize you've finished the book. I could easily read a book by this author that is ten times longer and not get bored.
Very highly recommended
Fiorinda has ascended to the throne after the death of her father only to find her stepmother and husband have conspired to take the throne from her, all because she wants to work out a peace agreement between her human people and a tribe of aliens known as Dugorim. She ends up in a dark, dank cell in the dungeon under the castle. In the cell next to her is a Dugorim warlord by the name of G'rakk. Huge, brutish and a prisoner since Fiorinda was a child, he tells her the only way they can escape is for her to mate with him. But the catch is that they both have to be compatible with each other and to find out if they are, she has to allow him to smell her, then she has to suck him off, then lose her virginity to him. The situation is made worse by the fact that she is very popular with her people and her stepmother and husband decide to have her appear in public via video link to lull the locals into thinking she is out of sight because she is mourning the death of her father all the while they are working together to have her "disappear". Realizing there is no way out of the dungeon except to agree to G'rakk's offer she is thrust into an adventure of survival like no other. Will things change for her and G'rakk once they are free of the city. How will she survive in a colony of alien beasts who have long been enemies of the humans who rule the kingdom.
Only Lizzy Bequin can think of stories like this and then put the ideas together to create a story that you just can't put down - no matter how hungry or thirsty you get. It's literally a case of - "I'll just read one more chapter", then before you realize you've finished the book. I could easily read a book by this author that is ten times longer and not get bored.
Very highly recommended
May 22, 2021
4.5 stars - short, steamy, creative, and primal
POV: dual
HUMOR: yes
F BOMBS: yes
CLIFFHANGER: no
NEW AUTHOR FOR ME: no
TRIGGERS: betrayal, explicit sex scenes, crude/graphic language
CHARACTERS: Fiorinda is young, smart, and brave. She appears "puny" to alien G'rakk, who is a large, crude beast. They are imprisoned in cells next to each other with no means of escape. For now.
This novella is the perfect day read for fans of sci-fi romance with just a touch of enemies-to-lovers. Even though it's a shorter read, it has the necessary ingredients to include enough world-building, a creative means of escape, a steamy relationship, and an epilogue. There's definitely room for this to become a series, which I'd look forward to.
No typos (only one punctuation oopsy), well-written, and easy-to-read. This one includes the trademark raw primal themes that I look forward to in her books.
Though the bad guys were a bit obvious, I still wanted to see how the story progressed and I enjoyed it. My only complaint is that I wished it was longer (maybe just one more chapter?) to solidify/complete that energy described in their growing romance/relationship. But that's just me being demanding.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
POV: dual
HUMOR: yes
F BOMBS: yes
CLIFFHANGER: no
NEW AUTHOR FOR ME: no
TRIGGERS: betrayal, explicit sex scenes, crude/graphic language
CHARACTERS: Fiorinda is young, smart, and brave. She appears "puny" to alien G'rakk, who is a large, crude beast. They are imprisoned in cells next to each other with no means of escape. For now.
This novella is the perfect day read for fans of sci-fi romance with just a touch of enemies-to-lovers. Even though it's a shorter read, it has the necessary ingredients to include enough world-building, a creative means of escape, a steamy relationship, and an epilogue. There's definitely room for this to become a series, which I'd look forward to.
No typos (only one punctuation oopsy), well-written, and easy-to-read. This one includes the trademark raw primal themes that I look forward to in her books.
Though the bad guys were a bit obvious, I still wanted to see how the story progressed and I enjoyed it. My only complaint is that I wished it was longer (maybe just one more chapter?) to solidify/complete that energy described in their growing romance/relationship. But that's just me being demanding.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 20, 2021
The writing and editing of the ARC version of the manuscript was clean, with no typos that I found and well constructed sentences. The world building was competent, with Xaridian political realities coming to life. The characterization was okay, with the hero and heroine being sympathetic individuals, if not especially nuanced. The development of the romantic relationship was HOT, with a heat level of four chili peppers. The plot was the strength of this novel, being tight and exciting. As a consequence, the pacing was quick. There was low angst and high stakes throughout this novel, which tends to be one of my preferred narrative structures for a romance novel. This novel used the Mating Bond trope and the Enemies to Lovers trope. The world building, plot, and pacing were all four stars. The characterization and development of the romantic relationship were both three stars. I therefore rounded up and gave this novel a combined rating of four stars. This novel ended on a Happy Ever After ending instead of a cliffhanger ending, so that was a big plus. I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy sci-fi romances with high heat and political machinations. I look forward to reading the next book in this series, if the author turns it into one. I do not currently plan to buy myself a keeper copy of this novel.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2021
I'm used to Lizzy's books popping off at the start, and Brute Force flowed into its story. There isn't a damn thing wrong with that. It just not what I'm used to, and this being a novella, I thought it would be a wham, bam, thank you, ma'am. So, let me start this off by saying this was not what I expected.
Fiorinda is the Queen of Xaridia. It's her wish to make peace with the Dugorim, a savage alien breed that co-exists with humans. When she makes it known that she plans to send an emissary to seek peace, she finds herself the subject of a coup. Now her Dungeonmate is none other than a savage Dugorim.
Lizzy has a bit of a Beauty and the Beast retelling with a brutal twist. I love her debauched fairytale, and I would love to read the next one, which she teases at the end of this book.
WHAT. A. TEASE!
I loved everything about this novella, except for the fact that it is so short, and it left me wanting more. I just started getting into the world when it was over. So, I dinged it a star. But this is another winner from Lizzy Bequin.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary advance copy of this book.
Fiorinda is the Queen of Xaridia. It's her wish to make peace with the Dugorim, a savage alien breed that co-exists with humans. When she makes it known that she plans to send an emissary to seek peace, she finds herself the subject of a coup. Now her Dungeonmate is none other than a savage Dugorim.
Lizzy has a bit of a Beauty and the Beast retelling with a brutal twist. I love her debauched fairytale, and I would love to read the next one, which she teases at the end of this book.
WHAT. A. TEASE!
I loved everything about this novella, except for the fact that it is so short, and it left me wanting more. I just started getting into the world when it was over. So, I dinged it a star. But this is another winner from Lizzy Bequin.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary advance copy of this book.
May 22, 2021
This is absolutely a love story.
As long as she lives he cannot die. So when Fio asks “And what about after I die?” G’rakk's answer is “Then I will die too. I will follow you into the afterdeath, so my spirit can continue to protect yours. When your heart ceases to beat, mine will cease with it." It's the literal truth for the mated Dugorim, not just pretty words. It made me tear-up.
G'rakk will fight for his Queen in the battle to bring down the corrupt human throne. As they fight for a chance at peace.
The scenario is hardly surprising and totally what would happen if we ever did leave this solar system.
Humans settle Xaridia, a world which already has intelligent life.
Humans try to murder them all.
Humans wonder why they fight back...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As long as she lives he cannot die. So when Fio asks “And what about after I die?” G’rakk's answer is “Then I will die too. I will follow you into the afterdeath, so my spirit can continue to protect yours. When your heart ceases to beat, mine will cease with it." It's the literal truth for the mated Dugorim, not just pretty words. It made me tear-up.
G'rakk will fight for his Queen in the battle to bring down the corrupt human throne. As they fight for a chance at peace.
The scenario is hardly surprising and totally what would happen if we ever did leave this solar system.
Humans settle Xaridia, a world which already has intelligent life.
Humans try to murder them all.
Humans wonder why they fight back...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2021
I have to admit that I have never had a Lizzy Bequin book that I didn't love! She always comes up with fresh and interesting stories that keep me hungry for more. The chemistry between Fio and G'rakk is scorching hot! I will admit that I needed a couple of icy beverages to cool me down. The storyline itself was very interesting. What's a Queen to do when she is kidnapped and thrown in the dungeon for trying to extend an olive branch to the Dugorim race? Especially when there is a Dugorim in the cell next to hers. I think she made the right choice. Also, loved the epilogue so much! If you like your romance a little dark and dirty, and are ready for a good bit of action and adventure, then this is a great book for you. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2021
Fiorinda is imprisoned in the dungeons and helped to escape by G’rakk.
When her father died in battle ten days ago Fiorinda became Queen of Xaridia she decides that they will enter into diplomatic relations with the Dugorim who are the native of the colony world but for most of the time since the humans landed have been at war with each other.. After she goes to bed she is grabbed and taken to the dungeon on the orders of her stepmother and husband where she thrown into a cell next to G’rakk a Dugorim who has been imprisoned for many years. After another visit from her stepmother and husband G'rakk proposes a way to escape that shocks Fiorinda.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When her father died in battle ten days ago Fiorinda became Queen of Xaridia she decides that they will enter into diplomatic relations with the Dugorim who are the native of the colony world but for most of the time since the humans landed have been at war with each other.. After she goes to bed she is grabbed and taken to the dungeon on the orders of her stepmother and husband where she thrown into a cell next to G’rakk a Dugorim who has been imprisoned for many years. After another visit from her stepmother and husband G'rakk proposes a way to escape that shocks Fiorinda.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2021
Brute force, a deliciously hot and dirty story, with a great storyline and a even better HEA. Lizzy really knows how to deliver a very hot and deliciously dark story, and no matter how many aliens to one women, her stories will make your feet curl.
Fiorindas father has died and she is now the queen, however there are people that are against her and wish her gone. That very night she is taken from her room and left in the dungeons with a Warlord of the Dugorims. Grakk dosnt particulary like the human female but need her to get out of the prison and that means bonding with her, which after sniffing her he knows it will surely work.
This book is a must read.... hot and delightful..... 5 plus stars
Fiorindas father has died and she is now the queen, however there are people that are against her and wish her gone. That very night she is taken from her room and left in the dungeons with a Warlord of the Dugorims. Grakk dosnt particulary like the human female but need her to get out of the prison and that means bonding with her, which after sniffing her he knows it will surely work.
This book is a must read.... hot and delightful..... 5 plus stars
May 30, 2021
⛓️“I am the master of your body. But you are the master of my heart.”
~~~
Fiorinda is a young and idealistic queen. Even after she’s betrayed, she remains strong and resilient and I really liked that about her.
G’rakk is rough, brutal and dominant. But he’s also caring and protective.
I liked the development of their relationship and the way they grew to care about each other despite their initial expectations and reluctance. And it was hot, and dirty, and so captivating.
And the epilogue was a great wrap-up of the story.
Overall, the story is a fast-paced read filled with action, danger and steam.
I enjoyed it very much!
~~~
Fiorinda is a young and idealistic queen. Even after she’s betrayed, she remains strong and resilient and I really liked that about her.
G’rakk is rough, brutal and dominant. But he’s also caring and protective.
I liked the development of their relationship and the way they grew to care about each other despite their initial expectations and reluctance. And it was hot, and dirty, and so captivating.
And the epilogue was a great wrap-up of the story.
Overall, the story is a fast-paced read filled with action, danger and steam.
I enjoyed it very much!
May 21, 2021
I loved the bit of dark and the end was perfect!
I devoured this book, so much I forgot bacon in the oven…my family was not happy lol This book was tons of fun to read. I liked the bit of darkness in the beginning…it eclipsed with a sort of raw hunger that kept the reader (me) oblivious to the real world. The heroine was young, but she was thrust into her role as Queen and wanted to make a difference. Then things got turned around and that is when she met our hero. Oh he was just a strong, slightly rude, brute…I loved him right away. This author is quickly becoming a favorite 💛
I devoured this book, so much I forgot bacon in the oven…my family was not happy lol This book was tons of fun to read. I liked the bit of darkness in the beginning…it eclipsed with a sort of raw hunger that kept the reader (me) oblivious to the real world. The heroine was young, but she was thrust into her role as Queen and wanted to make a difference. Then things got turned around and that is when she met our hero. Oh he was just a strong, slightly rude, brute…I loved him right away. This author is quickly becoming a favorite 💛
May 22, 2021
This was a quick hot read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Fiorinda and G'rakk meet in very trying conditions and have to work together to save themselves and each other. That's the PG summary :) But the way they "rescue" each other... oh my. Once again Lizzy excels in a fast-paced plot with lots of steam and a well constructed story, quick as it is. The dialogue was especially enjoyable - when these two were laying out their "terms" with each other it made me snort-laugh.
Lots of fun, lots of steam, great story.
Lots of fun, lots of steam, great story.
May 22, 2021
The book and its plot made me curious and I liked it a lot. Like all of Lizzy Bequin's books, this one is exciting and steamy.
My favorite scene was actually the epilogue from Atys' point of view. I had to laugh so much when he kneels in front of Antiope and he tells her to lift her dress - just great!
I'm giving the book 4.5 out of 5 stars because I would have loved to read more from Fiorinda and G'rakk - the book was just too quick to end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My favorite scene was actually the epilogue from Atys' point of view. I had to laugh so much when he kneels in front of Antiope and he tells her to lift her dress - just great!
I'm giving the book 4.5 out of 5 stars because I would have loved to read more from Fiorinda and G'rakk - the book was just too quick to end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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