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The Arkadian Brides Agency is about to send Hailey to paradise.
Hailey always thought she was a member of the noble poor in Arkadia’s underworld. Her family’s farm might be struggling, but as the designated produce runner, she is reminded how lucky she is every time she brings donations to the village children’s home. But when Hailey learns that the family business isn’t what it seems, she knows she has to get away fast. The only option is the unthinkable – sell herself off as a bride to a wealthy man in the overworld to buy her family out of danger.
Orion follows the rules. It’s the only option if he wants to be elected the King’s ambassador. But when a single night of fun in the Outer Rings lands him with an unexpected heir on his doorstep, Orion must take action, and fast. Since the little one’s biological mother can’t be found, he opts to sponsor a bride from the underworld. His daughter will not be made to grow up without a mother figure. And after all, a permanent tie to Arkadia’s working class underworld could gain him essential votes. But he is determined to honor his new bride with his name and fortune, without imposing himself on her romantically.
The unlikely couple might be planning a marriage of convenience, but their shared love of little Opal brings them inexorably closer each day. When Hailey’s past threatens to catch up with her, they will be forced to face their true feelings. Will Orion sacrifice his career for love? Or will Hailey go on the run again before he gets a chance?
If you like strong women, hunky aliens, wild adventures, steamy sensual scenes, and happily-ever-afters, then you’ll love the world of Arkadia!
Hailey always thought she was a member of the noble poor in Arkadia’s underworld. Her family’s farm might be struggling, but as the designated produce runner, she is reminded how lucky she is every time she brings donations to the village children’s home. But when Hailey learns that the family business isn’t what it seems, she knows she has to get away fast. The only option is the unthinkable – sell herself off as a bride to a wealthy man in the overworld to buy her family out of danger.
Orion follows the rules. It’s the only option if he wants to be elected the King’s ambassador. But when a single night of fun in the Outer Rings lands him with an unexpected heir on his doorstep, Orion must take action, and fast. Since the little one’s biological mother can’t be found, he opts to sponsor a bride from the underworld. His daughter will not be made to grow up without a mother figure. And after all, a permanent tie to Arkadia’s working class underworld could gain him essential votes. But he is determined to honor his new bride with his name and fortune, without imposing himself on her romantically.
The unlikely couple might be planning a marriage of convenience, but their shared love of little Opal brings them inexorably closer each day. When Hailey’s past threatens to catch up with her, they will be forced to face their true feelings. Will Orion sacrifice his career for love? Or will Hailey go on the run again before he gets a chance?
If you like strong women, hunky aliens, wild adventures, steamy sensual scenes, and happily-ever-afters, then you’ll love the world of Arkadia!
169 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2021
94 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
January 31, 2022
This was really a MEH read, and I'm not sure why it has such great ratings. Probably because it's not on KU and therefore the people shelling out money for it are people who really like the author.
The heroine is... basically like a blank slate. All I know about her is that she has a brother and 2 parents, worked on some sort of farm, and is somewhat altruistic. She's also maybe skinny, or not, has lavender coloured eyes (how, I don't know), and.... they live in some sort of super far fetched physically impossible world. And I'm an astrophysicist so for me this is like... uhh okay whatever.
The hero is... kind of like a stereotypical alpha dude with a lot of altruism added. He was quite attractive in that way, but I can't remember what he's supposed to look like other than... light hair with green highlights (which were supposed to show he was genetically altered but that was never explained, as usual I suppose). There was perhaps a tiny bit more background info on him, although now thinking back on it I can't really remember much of it so maybe not. He had a one night stand that resulted in a baby, but... no details were given on that (perhaps to appeal to the "no OW" crowd).
The only cute and enjoyable thing about this book was Opal.
The heroine is... basically like a blank slate. All I know about her is that she has a brother and 2 parents, worked on some sort of farm, and is somewhat altruistic. She's also maybe skinny, or not, has lavender coloured eyes (how, I don't know), and.... they live in some sort of super far fetched physically impossible world. And I'm an astrophysicist so for me this is like... uhh okay whatever.
The hero is... kind of like a stereotypical alpha dude with a lot of altruism added. He was quite attractive in that way, but I can't remember what he's supposed to look like other than... light hair with green highlights (which were supposed to show he was genetically altered but that was never explained, as usual I suppose). There was perhaps a tiny bit more background info on him, although now thinking back on it I can't really remember much of it so maybe not. He had a one night stand that resulted in a baby, but... no details were given on that (perhaps to appeal to the "no OW" crowd).
The only cute and enjoyable thing about this book was Opal.
October 10, 2021
Hailey thought her life was simple and that she was part of the noble poor in the Arkadia underworld as she often took donations from their farm to the village's children's home but then she learned that her family business is not quite what it seems. Suddenly she knows she has to get away fast and sell herself off as a bride to a wealthy man from the overworld to buy her family's safety. Orion has always followed the rules and so he is confident he can be elected as the King's ambassador but a single night of fun in the outer rings results in him receiving an unexpected heir. So he takes action fast and opts to sponsor a bride from the underworld so that his daughter grows up with a mother plus a permanent tie to the underworld could gain him votes. In return, he will honour his new bride with his name and fortune and not impose himself romantically on her. It might be a marriage of convenience initially but baby Opal brings them closer and when Hailey's past threatens to catch up on her they will be forced to face their true feelings - will Orion sacrifice his career for love or will Hailey be on the run again before he gets the chance?
This was a sweet story of how their lives were polar opposites, convenience brought them together and baby Opal worked her own brand of magic to bring them together as a loving couple. I loved the way that Orion's campaign manager played a central role in helping Hailey and making sure that she had a friend in the upper world. It was well written, easy to read and understand the thoughts and emotions of the characters. Contains some explicit sexual content.
This was a sweet story of how their lives were polar opposites, convenience brought them together and baby Opal worked her own brand of magic to bring them together as a loving couple. I loved the way that Orion's campaign manager played a central role in helping Hailey and making sure that she had a friend in the upper world. It was well written, easy to read and understand the thoughts and emotions of the characters. Contains some explicit sexual content.
September 4, 2021
This was my first book by Tasha Black, but it certainly won't be my last! I thoroughly enjoyed Orion & Hailey and would want to be friends with them in real life. I even loved the secondary characters like Kypha, Chaz, Summer & Valerie too! Tasha's world-building is exceptional! I loved everything about this book. Thank you for writing it, Tasha!!
July 20, 2024
Conocí a Opal hace una semana hoy. Y borraría planetas por ella.
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February 13, 2022
A nice addition to the aliens-need-brides/mail-order-brides tropes, Orion takes place in the far future on a different planet with the human woman a refugee. Add in an evil drug lord for suspense and it's another entertaining and steamy read from Tasha Black.
June 21, 2023
I was surprised to find that this was published after "Burn This!" by the same author; that book seemed to have more mature writing, a more distinctive & personal voice, greater character development and better editing.
I wanted to like this taste of a new-to-me series, but the editing missteps were too much (heroine's POV jumped back & forth from 1st person to 3rd person without any transitions several times over the course of only a few chapters).
I wanted to like this taste of a new-to-me series, but the editing missteps were too much (heroine's POV jumped back & forth from 1st person to 3rd person without any transitions several times over the course of only a few chapters).
August 19, 2022
I love it! Hailey's farm is in the lower Arkadias & not doing so well. Still they make donations to orphanage every month when she & her brother make the deliveries. This time when he is sick she goes alone. When she stops to she the kids, she adds a box of berries from her last stop to the orphanage's bundle. Unknowing that her act of kindness is going to open a whole mess of trouble. She goes on to her last delivery, the Tyvarr's Place. When he notices the box of berries missing, she says they had a bad harvest & were short. He demands to see her father now! She goes to get him, not too sure what the problem is, it's only a box of berries! She goes home & tells her family what is going on. They go into a panic & rush to get the box from brother Jeff. Her mom tells them to let her know why everyone is so upset. It turns out, they have been delivering a D-19 powder in the berry boxes to the Tyvarr's place. Hailey is appalled but knows they have to get the box before Brother Jeff opens it. But by the time they get to the orphanage, it is too late. The police are already there, Brother Jeff won't even look at her. Her father is arrested but claims his family knew nothing about it. Tyvarr's son is arrested. The police had been trying to get something on them for years. Hailey & the rest of her family went home. They are preparing to leave. Her brother tells her to find a place & lie low for a while, the Tyvarrs' are sure to be looking for her. The go their separate ways. Orion VynFleet talking to his publicity consultant, Kypha. She tells him his polls are down because he seems cold & standoffish. She thinks he needs a family. He has a family. She says that's not what she meant. He doesn't have time to date. She hands him a bridal agency card. About that time he gets a delivery. He tells the kid to set it on the hall table. He says it's not something you leave on a table. Then a droid brings in what looks like a baby wrapped up in it's arms. Then the baby starts to cry. Hailey gets off the airbus, in what she sees is the wrong place in town. She isn't sure what to do when she sees the ad on the wall for the bridal agency. 6 month training, & possibly a match. She could hide out here. Plus there is a bonus if she does get a match! She could help her family. She goes in to see if she could join. She signs up & is introduced to her room mates. Valerie & Summer, They show her how to operate the shower & wardrobe printer. They get to talking & Summer tells her she is the worst student ever. She is so clumsy & has done so many dumb things! She has been told, one more incident & she will not be matched at all! The next day they are going through a simulated City fair. Summer backs away from a painting to get a better look an knocks over a table of vases breaking them. She is so desolate, she's out. Orion has come, he wants to find a wife & mother today. The head of the agency, Marion, isn't sure they can find a match in so short a time but lets him observe the City fair training session, to see what he thinks. He sees Summer knock over the table & he then sees Hailey apologize for the mishap, taking the blame, to cover for her. He asks if she is matched? She is perfect! Marion tells him she just started yesterday. He wants to ask anyway. This is the one he wants! When Hailey walks up, she recognizes him immediately. He is the one fixing the roads for the lower communities & will make things better for them. When he explains about his daughter, Opal needing a mother & wanting a wife, today, will she accept. Hailey accepts right away. When they get to the Higher Arkades she is a little overwhelmed by the blue sky! She has only ever seen the artificial lights & dark underneath of the Higher Arkadeas that has been above them her whole life. She looking around the city as they go to his house. He looks at her amazed expression. The reason he chose her, was her selfless act of kindness to help her friend at the agency. That is the kind of person he would want to be helping raise Opal. When they get to his house, he sees all the reporters at the front door, he has the driver pull around to the back, so Hailey doesn't have to deal with this today. They go in the back door. Kypha wants to know why they are coming in that way. Orion tells her they want some privacy. He introduces Hailey & tells her that she will need a little training. Kypha offers to train her herself, they will start by getting makeovers tonight! Hailey isn't too sure she wants to get a makeover but ok with everything else. He then calls the day nanny to bring Opal to meet her new mother-to-be. She wakes up in a bedroom & knows she nodded off in the family room. She should be with him, right? She goes to his room & knocks. When he tells her to go back to her room she feels rejected. He sees what he has done & calls her back. He tries to make her understand it is not that she is unwanted, he is just trying to be a good person & not push her too much too fast. He gets his point across without coming on too strong, no matter how much he wants her. She is young & seems fairly innocent about sex so he plans to take it slow, even if it kills him. She goes to one of Orion's meetings with him. When she finds out there will be a news video, she panics. If she is on the news, the Tyvarrs' will be able to find her! She goes to get a drink, then pretends to trip & spill it all over the equipment & short it out. There are some very angry news people, that tech is not cheap. Orion promises to pay for all the equipment damaged. She then decides to go with Kypha to get that makeover she has been trying to get her to do, it might help disguise her. Tyvarr Sr. stops by Hailey's farm hoping to find some of the family there. Because of them his drug ring is gone, & his son is in jail, they are all going to pay! He finds Brother Jeff & some of the orphans working the field. He asks where the family is & when they will be back. He tells him they didn't say. Tyvarr makes sure he has his contact & tells him he will inform Tyvarr when they return. He doesn't say it out-right but anyone can see it is an or else threat. That evening, Hailey is about to go to Orion's room again to see if she can get him to do more than just hold her this time. She hears Opal crying, thinking it is odd for the baby to still be crying like that, she has a nanny. She goes to check on her. She is not in the nursery, she finds Opal still crying in her floating crib with her nanny. They are in the family room downstairs, with the night nanny, scanning her media feed, ignoring the child. Furious, Hailey picks her up, & wants to know why she was just letting her cry. Phyrissa, the nanny, told her the baby had been fussy all night. She probably had a cold & would cry herself to sleep. Hailey asks her if she thinks Opals' sick, why hasn't she told Orion? Phyrissa tells her that he doesn't care, Opal is just a prop. Hailey tells her no. If the child appears sick in anyway to get her or her father! Phyrissa tells her she is just hired help too. The only reason he is marrying her is to win the election. At that time Orion walks in says she is dismissed. She misunderstands & says ok she can come in early tomorrow to make up hours. He says no, you are dismissed, you have an hour to get your things & leave. Security will be waiting & drive you anywhere you want. After she leaves he goes on to tell Hailey that she is not hired help. They take Opal to the nursery. Orion pulls out a diaper & shows Hailey how to change her. He tells her, one of the nannies had to show him how to do it when he first got Opal. Hailey puts her in her crib & sings her a song her mom used to sing to her. They watch her nod off. The next morning, Kypha is there to tell Orion the news man had leaked a clip of Hailey spilling the drinks on the equipment, but she shut it down. He is probably going to hear from him because he is saying he was censored. There is a fundraiser they will be going to. When they get there things go smoothly until it seems time to go home. An old Terran, Lars Offalt, making some rude comments to her, pinches her rear. She gets back to Orion trying to stay calm so nothing gets on video again. After she sees the cameras gone, she sees Lars alone at the bar. She gives Opal to Orion & goes to speak with him. Lars grabs at her, she grabs his wrist & twists it so he can't move. She promptly tells him what she thinks of him & to never speak of Opal again. She tells him to say if he understands or she will break his wrist. He says yes & she tells him to get out. Orion comes up at that time tells her to get in the car. She explains what happened, he said she should have told him. They don't solve things that way here. Later Kapha is helping Hailey pick out her dress. Orion is at the gym working things out with Titan. Hailey is walking the grounds with Opal when a van pulls up, a man with a gun leans out. He tells her to get in, Tyvarr is inside. He tells her he was going to kill her but it would be better to have a politicians' wife in his pocket. If she doesn't do everything he tells her, he will kill her family, Opal & Orion. The next day, their wedding day, she is all dressed up, not knowing what to do. Lars shows up at the wedding with a video of her being forced into the van yesterday with Tyvarr & begins saying horrible things about her. Orion hears him & is angry. He storms past her & punches him in the face. He tells him to get out & he doesn't care about the election. He tells Kapha to get the officiant to meet them at home. They are going to do a private ceremony. They see a small group of friends who came to their home for the wedding. The next morning she comes into the kitchen to see Orion cooking an breakfast with Opal in his arms. While they are eating Kypha storms in wanting to know where he has been? She has tried to reach him all morning gulping a whole cup of coffee & the getting another one. A lot has bee going on. Thanks to Lars video, Tyvarr is in custody & will be put away for a long time. Lars will be put in protective custody in Lower Arkadia. Plus when the newsman who is angry with him, leaked the video from the wedding yesterday, it backfired. It may have lost him a lot of male supporters in Higher Arkadia but it showed him defending his family. He got a lot more women & lower Arkadia on his side! He won the election. So, don't look for a new job yet Ambassador VynFleet! I love it!
February 7, 2022
This is an OK sci-fi alien romance, but I did have a few issues with it. It gets 3 stars from me.
First, it was too short to have as much character development as I like. I would have liked a little more backstory on both Orion and Hailey.
The couple in this story falls in instalove, as is typical in books of this genre. I felt, though, that they were more in lust than in love. They just didn't know each other well enough to be in love, and had very little in common.
Hailey was likable enough, but the part where she had absolutely no idea that her family was delivering drugs for a local crime family was a little weird. I found it difficult to believe they would have been able to keep something like that from her -- there had to be odd signs that she would have noticed. I also thought it was odd that she and her family thought running would save her from the revenge of that crime family. They were criminals, after all, and had the resources to find her. I did like that she fell for Orion's daughter Opal so quickly.
Orion was a nice guy, and truly wanted to make life better for everyone on Arkadia. It didn't matter to him that the people on Lower Arkadia were not genetic Arkadians. I liked that he immediately fell in love with his daughter, and was willing to do anything for her. He resisted the idea of marriage at first, but then realized Opal needed a mother. After he married Hailey, he then tried very hard to help her adjust to the life of a politician's wife on Upper Arkadia. He even finally realized that she meant more to him than his politician's career.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
First, it was too short to have as much character development as I like. I would have liked a little more backstory on both Orion and Hailey.
The couple in this story falls in instalove, as is typical in books of this genre. I felt, though, that they were more in lust than in love. They just didn't know each other well enough to be in love, and had very little in common.
Hailey was likable enough, but the part where she had absolutely no idea that her family was delivering drugs for a local crime family was a little weird. I found it difficult to believe they would have been able to keep something like that from her -- there had to be odd signs that she would have noticed. I also thought it was odd that she and her family thought running would save her from the revenge of that crime family. They were criminals, after all, and had the resources to find her. I did like that she fell for Orion's daughter Opal so quickly.
Orion was a nice guy, and truly wanted to make life better for everyone on Arkadia. It didn't matter to him that the people on Lower Arkadia were not genetic Arkadians. I liked that he immediately fell in love with his daughter, and was willing to do anything for her. He resisted the idea of marriage at first, but then realized Opal needed a mother. After he married Hailey, he then tried very hard to help her adjust to the life of a politician's wife on Upper Arkadia. He even finally realized that she meant more to him than his politician's career.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
September 11, 2021
Hailey always thought she was a member of the noble poor in Arkadia’s underworld. Her family’s farm might be struggling, but as the designated produce runner, she is reminded how lucky she is every time she brings donations to the village children’s home. But when Hailey learns that the family business isn’t what it seems, she knows she has to get away fast. Orion follows the rules. It’s the only option if he wants to be elected the King’s ambassador. But when a single night of fun in the Outer Rings lands him with an unexpected heir on his doorstep, Orion must take action, and fast. Since the little one’s biological mother can’t be found, he opts to sponsor a bride from the underworld.
Haileys family is from lower Arkadia and though they are not wealthy, they manage to get by and even help those around them. Unfortunately Hailey's generous heart brings her family secrets to light in a spectacular way. She has to leave to keep her and her family safe. While looking for a place to hide she stumbles upon a dating agency.
Orion has worked hard to become an ambassador. He has lead in trying to bring jobs and ways to bring more income into lower Arkadia. Most people think he is cold and distant, but those closest to him and those who he has helped know the truth. Orion wants to help others without it turning into a publicity stunt. But one day a nights a fun he had with a stranger comes back to haunt him. He must try to find a bride to complete his family and help him become ambassador. For this he decides to enlist the help of a dating agency.
Overall I give this book a solid 4stars. There were parts I loved, parts that seemed out of place and parts where I wanted more. Overall this is a good quick read. The main characters were likeable and there was an instant connection between Orion and Hailey that you can feel. There were definitely a few heated scenes and some tender moments. The book has A HEA and I would recommend it. I actually can't wait to read the couples in the rest of the series.
Haileys family is from lower Arkadia and though they are not wealthy, they manage to get by and even help those around them. Unfortunately Hailey's generous heart brings her family secrets to light in a spectacular way. She has to leave to keep her and her family safe. While looking for a place to hide she stumbles upon a dating agency.
Orion has worked hard to become an ambassador. He has lead in trying to bring jobs and ways to bring more income into lower Arkadia. Most people think he is cold and distant, but those closest to him and those who he has helped know the truth. Orion wants to help others without it turning into a publicity stunt. But one day a nights a fun he had with a stranger comes back to haunt him. He must try to find a bride to complete his family and help him become ambassador. For this he decides to enlist the help of a dating agency.
Overall I give this book a solid 4stars. There were parts I loved, parts that seemed out of place and parts where I wanted more. Overall this is a good quick read. The main characters were likeable and there was an instant connection between Orion and Hailey that you can feel. There were definitely a few heated scenes and some tender moments. The book has A HEA and I would recommend it. I actually can't wait to read the couples in the rest of the series.
September 6, 2021
A wonderful start to a new series. Hailey is kind-hearted and compassionate young woman who thinks of others before herself. She found herself in a serious situation after doing a kind thing an giving more ice berries to the local orphanage only to later learn the ice berries were how her family distributed drugs for a local crime family. Hailey is upset her unknowing actions have out her family and their produce farm in serious jeopardy.
After leaving her family farm to escape the reach of the local crime family she literally trips over a possible solution, becoming a bride in a matchmaking program.
Orion is a politician who is trying to make a difference and suddenly discovers he is a father. He decides he needs a wife to mother his daughter and he chooses HAILEY.
These two have an unconventional meeting and are from entirely different backgrounds, but Orion is impressed with Hailey’s immediate bonding with his baby daughter Opal. Her momma bear instincts pleases him greatly. He is also attracted to her but vows to make her life extremely comfortable and not to push her into a physical relationship. Haley is very attracted to Orion, but isn’t sure what he expects of her beyond being a mother to Opal.
These two are thrown together with little opportunity to talk about what they need or expect of each other, and they are in the public eye due to Orion’s position as a politician and his upcoming election.
The storyline moves at a fast-pace and the character’s have a few misunderstandings due to their different backgrounds and how quickly their pairing has taken place. This is an enjoyable read and a good start to a new series.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
After leaving her family farm to escape the reach of the local crime family she literally trips over a possible solution, becoming a bride in a matchmaking program.
Orion is a politician who is trying to make a difference and suddenly discovers he is a father. He decides he needs a wife to mother his daughter and he chooses HAILEY.
These two have an unconventional meeting and are from entirely different backgrounds, but Orion is impressed with Hailey’s immediate bonding with his baby daughter Opal. Her momma bear instincts pleases him greatly. He is also attracted to her but vows to make her life extremely comfortable and not to push her into a physical relationship. Haley is very attracted to Orion, but isn’t sure what he expects of her beyond being a mother to Opal.
These two are thrown together with little opportunity to talk about what they need or expect of each other, and they are in the public eye due to Orion’s position as a politician and his upcoming election.
The storyline moves at a fast-pace and the character’s have a few misunderstandings due to their different backgrounds and how quickly their pairing has taken place. This is an enjoyable read and a good start to a new series.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 13, 2021
There hasn't been a book I didn't enjoy written by Ms. Tasha Black and this book is no exception! I love the books she writes about people on different planets...and of course the babies are so adorable!
Hailey and Orion's story hooked me from page 1, and then when little Opal put in an appearance it became just a little bit more enjoyable! Intrigue, romance, some sexy times, a cute baby...I can't think of anything more this book needs!
Hailey flees Lower Arcadia due to circumstances pretty much out of her control and catches the eye of Orion. The sparks start to fly! And once Hailey meets baby Opal, she's convinced it's all worth it and she was meant to be where she was! And being with the handsome and sexy Orion adds icing to her cake!
One thing I really appreciated in this book was the message that people are who they are. If you feel the need to change someone, then maybe you're with the wrong person. And Orion was very happy with Hailey and felt she had no need to make herself over. I thought that was very sweet!
Another winner from the incomparable Tasha Black! If you haven't read any of her Alien books yet...what are you waiting for?! You're going to love them!
Hailey and Orion's story hooked me from page 1, and then when little Opal put in an appearance it became just a little bit more enjoyable! Intrigue, romance, some sexy times, a cute baby...I can't think of anything more this book needs!
Hailey flees Lower Arcadia due to circumstances pretty much out of her control and catches the eye of Orion. The sparks start to fly! And once Hailey meets baby Opal, she's convinced it's all worth it and she was meant to be where she was! And being with the handsome and sexy Orion adds icing to her cake!
One thing I really appreciated in this book was the message that people are who they are. If you feel the need to change someone, then maybe you're with the wrong person. And Orion was very happy with Hailey and felt she had no need to make herself over. I thought that was very sweet!
Another winner from the incomparable Tasha Black! If you haven't read any of her Alien books yet...what are you waiting for?! You're going to love them!
October 4, 2021
Awesome
This is a great love story, There's drama and a family to relocate. The family has kept a secret and a kind mistake has everything and everyone on edge. I really enjoyed the start of this series. In fact, the suspense built and the fear of leaving ones' home is understandable. The truth is much more worrisome, much scarier than Hailey imagined. There have never been two people more suited to be parents. They are so worthy. I'm so happy for them. I am so happy that no one can ruin Hailey's reputation and that she can to settle among High end citizens for the remainder of their lives.They are awesome characters that I really enjoyed. Tasha Black's creativity is so endless and her characters are unrivaled, her stories are enthralling. This is another favorite of her extraordinary series, they always touch my heart. I selfishly don't want this story to end and after finishing this wonderful story. Even then it may not be enough because I'm in love with these characters, but as I am always reminded of in the beginning, is that everything has a ending. But this story is well worth it all in my opinion.
This is a great love story, There's drama and a family to relocate. The family has kept a secret and a kind mistake has everything and everyone on edge. I really enjoyed the start of this series. In fact, the suspense built and the fear of leaving ones' home is understandable. The truth is much more worrisome, much scarier than Hailey imagined. There have never been two people more suited to be parents. They are so worthy. I'm so happy for them. I am so happy that no one can ruin Hailey's reputation and that she can to settle among High end citizens for the remainder of their lives.They are awesome characters that I really enjoyed. Tasha Black's creativity is so endless and her characters are unrivaled, her stories are enthralling. This is another favorite of her extraordinary series, they always touch my heart. I selfishly don't want this story to end and after finishing this wonderful story. Even then it may not be enough because I'm in love with these characters, but as I am always reminded of in the beginning, is that everything has a ending. But this story is well worth it all in my opinion.
February 11, 2022
rough ride
I had a hard time reading this. The technical writing was good, but the story tropes were….well unbelieveable. The lead female is on the run from a crime boss, recognizes a politician from the news and doesn’t put together that she’d be exposed in news feeds? That as a seasoned politician, the main male lead thinks taking some unschooled bumpkin to social gatherings without expecting turbulent issues to arise? The romance wasn’t really insta-lust or slow burn…it just kinda popped out of nowhere without any fuel or explanation. My other complaint is that the problems the mains faced just kinda puttered out by themselves off-screen. The male lead also didn’t feel quite believeable….too sweet, too understanding, too even-tempered and logical. There wasn’t much flaw to overcome. I feel a story should be a rollercoaster with ups, downs, twists and turns, and this felt to me like a flat train ride where even putting aside a healthy dose of suspension of disbelief doesn’t help much.
I had a hard time reading this. The technical writing was good, but the story tropes were….well unbelieveable. The lead female is on the run from a crime boss, recognizes a politician from the news and doesn’t put together that she’d be exposed in news feeds? That as a seasoned politician, the main male lead thinks taking some unschooled bumpkin to social gatherings without expecting turbulent issues to arise? The romance wasn’t really insta-lust or slow burn…it just kinda popped out of nowhere without any fuel or explanation. My other complaint is that the problems the mains faced just kinda puttered out by themselves off-screen. The male lead also didn’t feel quite believeable….too sweet, too understanding, too even-tempered and logical. There wasn’t much flaw to overcome. I feel a story should be a rollercoaster with ups, downs, twists and turns, and this felt to me like a flat train ride where even putting aside a healthy dose of suspension of disbelief doesn’t help much.
July 14, 2023
A really different take on the way of future could be. Pretty much you have the upper class living in literally the upper part of the world, and the Terrans living below them. They feel lucky to be taken in after their planet was decimated. Now in lower, they have the enter Galactic bride agency, training the humans in the lower part to be the perfect wife to the wealthy in upper Arcadia. Any Arcadian mail with enough money can purchase a female. I know it seems crude, but when you read the book, the system works Orion needs more than just a wife. He also needs a Mother’s for a little girl that just got put on his doorstep. That’s what a one night stand will get you. Instead of waiting, he arrives at the agency and finds the perfect girl in Hailey. Not only is she beautiful, but she protects her friends around her. They are a little bit to get used to each other but they managed to make it work. It’s an interesting take on the future and it’s a really good start to a new series by one of my favorite authors.
September 5, 2021
Orian, Hailey & Opal
Neither planned to marry at least not now. Until a major family problem. She didn't have the money to rescue them--except...
He was too busy to marry. Until a surprise showed up at his office. The results of a one-night stand with a woman who didn't want the surprise and couldn't be found. He needed a mother, not just the nannies he afforded but someone who would love and treat sweet little Opal the way the tiny baby deserved.
The agency set up to bring brides to the "elite" would provide the money she needed and the mother for his daughter. Win-win even if it wasn't a love match.
Could, would things change between them? Their societies were far different. Maybe that would be the starting point. Unless her problem reared up again. Could he help her or would her problem become his and ruin his future?
The relationship is sweet, steamy, and the baby adorable. Another good one from Tasha Black.
Neither planned to marry at least not now. Until a major family problem. She didn't have the money to rescue them--except...
He was too busy to marry. Until a surprise showed up at his office. The results of a one-night stand with a woman who didn't want the surprise and couldn't be found. He needed a mother, not just the nannies he afforded but someone who would love and treat sweet little Opal the way the tiny baby deserved.
The agency set up to bring brides to the "elite" would provide the money she needed and the mother for his daughter. Win-win even if it wasn't a love match.
Could, would things change between them? Their societies were far different. Maybe that would be the starting point. Unless her problem reared up again. Could he help her or would her problem become his and ruin his future?
The relationship is sweet, steamy, and the baby adorable. Another good one from Tasha Black.
September 6, 2021
Oh my stars! This is the 1st fantastic story in a new spin-off, (Arkadian Alien Mail Order Brides) that hooked me from the start! ... Hailey & Orion are an unlikely pair that come together in a contract, each with their own agenda and not looking for love. But becoming insta-parents for a sweet baby girl who Orion didn’t know he had fathered from a previous affair, changed many of their plans...
“ORION” is a romantic PNR must read with a unique & enjoyable plot, and with some ‘heat’ ;) plus a touch of action and suspense! Always relatable characters & clever dialogue with exceptional descriptions keep the reading flowing smoothly, that I was turning pages like crazy until I finished in record time! ...
Even tho I always volunteer to read this author’s books prior to the kindle release date, I also buy kindle books whenever I can. So yes, I can honestly recommend this & any book by Tasha Black, to Adult fans of fiction. I can’t wait for more, but I will always wait for them!
“ORION” is a romantic PNR must read with a unique & enjoyable plot, and with some ‘heat’ ;) plus a touch of action and suspense! Always relatable characters & clever dialogue with exceptional descriptions keep the reading flowing smoothly, that I was turning pages like crazy until I finished in record time! ...
Even tho I always volunteer to read this author’s books prior to the kindle release date, I also buy kindle books whenever I can. So yes, I can honestly recommend this & any book by Tasha Black, to Adult fans of fiction. I can’t wait for more, but I will always wait for them!
April 17, 2022
I read Atlas first
Not knowing I had the series of 3 books! Haha...hmmm 😄😁😂
I have read enough fan fiction in which a wrong chapter was posted so it wasn't difficult in orienting myself with events.
This was a terrific story and I am enjoying Tasha Black's writing. It is great reading a writer who knows her world and the folks she creates. Arkadia is not a perfect place but there are those who can that are doing what they can to improve upper and lower Arkadia.
Orion is in the public eye 👁️ and is already helping progress but he hopes to do more as Intergalactic ambassador. Unfortunately, Hailey, his very new wife, has not made a good impression upon one of Orion's big donors. It gets worse a day or so later when the stupid donor continues with his vulgarity towards Hailey and Opal, Orion's daughter. A father and husband must protect his family, shouldn't he?
A good story and a great series!
Not knowing I had the series of 3 books! Haha...hmmm 😄😁😂
I have read enough fan fiction in which a wrong chapter was posted so it wasn't difficult in orienting myself with events.
This was a terrific story and I am enjoying Tasha Black's writing. It is great reading a writer who knows her world and the folks she creates. Arkadia is not a perfect place but there are those who can that are doing what they can to improve upper and lower Arkadia.
Orion is in the public eye 👁️ and is already helping progress but he hopes to do more as Intergalactic ambassador. Unfortunately, Hailey, his very new wife, has not made a good impression upon one of Orion's big donors. It gets worse a day or so later when the stupid donor continues with his vulgarity towards Hailey and Opal, Orion's daughter. A father and husband must protect his family, shouldn't he?
A good story and a great series!
September 11, 2021
Hailey lived on a farm with her family and provided produce to their neighbors. Hailey loves visiting the orphanage and on her last trip she decided to give the orphanage an extra case of berries that was meant for another family. When she arrives home she tells her family the neighbor was angry because he was short of case of berries and she proceeded to tell her family what she did. Hailey was not aware what she did would put them all in danger. Once she discovers her error she if forced to leave her family home to protect them from her mistake. Hailey joins the dating agency and is selected by Orion to become his wife and help raise his daughter. There is a lot going on in this story but the story had my attention from page one. Love this book, the story is great and the characters are amazing.
September 10, 2021
Protecting the family
This book was everything I have come to expect from the author and so much more! I really enjoyed the beginning of the book, it really highlighted the social differences between the characters and made their meeting so much more romantic and enticing. I was drawn in by the gentle, sweetness of Hailey, who got handed a rough lot in life because of that goodness, and with each new character I found myself a little more taken with the story. The author couldn’t have done a better job with Orion’s character and the way his true colors showed as his family became the focus of his life. This book was amazing! And the perfect beginning to a series. I am looking forward to seeing what happens when upper and lower combine again in the next book.
This book was everything I have come to expect from the author and so much more! I really enjoyed the beginning of the book, it really highlighted the social differences between the characters and made their meeting so much more romantic and enticing. I was drawn in by the gentle, sweetness of Hailey, who got handed a rough lot in life because of that goodness, and with each new character I found myself a little more taken with the story. The author couldn’t have done a better job with Orion’s character and the way his true colors showed as his family became the focus of his life. This book was amazing! And the perfect beginning to a series. I am looking forward to seeing what happens when upper and lower combine again in the next book.
September 9, 2021
Loved this story. It was a great first story in a new series. Orion has a new daughter and needs to find a mother for her badly. So he gets a mail-order bride. Hailey tried to do a good deed for an orphanage and now she is on the run from a crime family so she decides to become a mail-order bride to get away. This story had great characters and an exciting, interesting story line. It was steamy and kept me glued to the pages. I have enjoyed all of Tasha Black's stories that I have read so far and this story is no exception. I received a review copy of this story and am leaving a voluntary honest review.
September 14, 2021
This my first read with this author and I enjoyed myself. A little twist on the Cinderella. Hailey’ a young woman who believes her family is working hard to support themselves and those less fortunate with the extra produce they grow. After a harrowing evening (details in the description), Hailey ends becoming a mail order to Orion, a powerful man in the Arkadia government. Orion needs a wife quickly for his image and to look after child.
This was great quick read; I was satisfied with the world building. The chemistry between both MCs was right. I will be reading the rest of this series
I received an ARC copy and this is my honest review,
This was great quick read; I was satisfied with the world building. The chemistry between both MCs was right. I will be reading the rest of this series
I received an ARC copy and this is my honest review,
December 12, 2021
This is a great start for a new series with a sweet love story. Hailey joins the mail order bride program after things go bad with her parent's farm. She can save her family by making this decision. She is chosen by a politician with an adorable baby. At first Orion thinks it will be a marriage of convenience only but his feelings for Hailey grows quickly especially as Hailey's feelings for baby Opal grows as quickly as her feelings for Orion. There are a few obstacles they have to go through but they do it together and their love for each other triumphs. You can always depend on enjoying this author's books!
February 5, 2022
Didn't really do anything for me
This was a short story about Orion who is an ambassador that is struggling in the polls for seeming cold and just found out his one night stand ended up in a baby that was left on his doorstep.
He needs a mother for his child and hopes having a family will help his image. Enter Hailey.
The story is short but tries to pack a lot into it. The beginning is actually Hailey and the trouble she gets into. I have liked a lot of Tasha Black books but this really didn't do anything for me. There is a HEA and it's pretty low drama but I didn't really connect to the characters and the few intimate scenes were kind of boring to me.
This was a short story about Orion who is an ambassador that is struggling in the polls for seeming cold and just found out his one night stand ended up in a baby that was left on his doorstep.
He needs a mother for his child and hopes having a family will help his image. Enter Hailey.
The story is short but tries to pack a lot into it. The beginning is actually Hailey and the trouble she gets into. I have liked a lot of Tasha Black books but this really didn't do anything for me. There is a HEA and it's pretty low drama but I didn't really connect to the characters and the few intimate scenes were kind of boring to me.
August 5, 2022
This book was great. It took two people from two different classes to win the Ambassador’s position.
Orion is a great soul. He takes in his child from a one night stand. Then he goes and find her a mother that will be there when he can’t. Give Opal the love and support that he got from his own mother.
Hailey is a great person. She loved her life even if it is hard. She looks forward to delivering to the orphanage to visit with the children. So when her life gets tossed around she jumps at the chance to go with Orion even without any training.
They have a bump or two to overcome. But it is all worth it in the end.
Orion is a great soul. He takes in his child from a one night stand. Then he goes and find her a mother that will be there when he can’t. Give Opal the love and support that he got from his own mother.
Hailey is a great person. She loved her life even if it is hard. She looks forward to delivering to the orphanage to visit with the children. So when her life gets tossed around she jumps at the chance to go with Orion even without any training.
They have a bump or two to overcome. But it is all worth it in the end.
May 16, 2023
Ya leí muchos libros de Tasha y sabía que esperar del libro. Entiendo si es la primera vez que leen este tipo de libro y entonces dejan esos comentarios de que deja cosas inconclusas, que sí, pero si ya leíste algo de ella antes no sé que pretendías. Sus libros, sobre todo los primeros en la saga, son más introductorios, supongo que más adelante en el resto de los libros va a desarrollar más el mundo. 🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️
Estuvo medianamente bueno, es un planeta nuevo y plantea cosas copadas. Que abre muchos problemas muy complejos que se solucionaron demasiado rapido? Sí. Que es muy corto para tanto plot? También.
Estuvo medianamente bueno, es un planeta nuevo y plantea cosas copadas. Que abre muchos problemas muy complejos que se solucionaron demasiado rapido? Sí. Que es muy corto para tanto plot? También.
June 19, 2023
There is one definitive thing that could have made this book miles better. And that's the length of it.
This book was too short. Too short to really get a feel for the world, too short to get a chance to learn the characters, and too short for the romance to really develop. Everything happens so fast, and I didn't like that.
There's a certain amount of finesse required when writing a book this short, and I just wasn't getting it. I initially wanted to give this book 2 stars, but feeling that it had potential if a few things were changed, decided to give it a higher rating. I didn't love this one, but I didn't hate it either.
This book was too short. Too short to really get a feel for the world, too short to get a chance to learn the characters, and too short for the romance to really develop. Everything happens so fast, and I didn't like that.
There's a certain amount of finesse required when writing a book this short, and I just wasn't getting it. I initially wanted to give this book 2 stars, but feeling that it had potential if a few things were changed, decided to give it a higher rating. I didn't love this one, but I didn't hate it either.
October 13, 2023
Uhmmm, creo que sin buscar mucho, debe de ser uno de los primero libros de la autora. No lo odie, pero tampoco lo amé. Ambos protagonistas son meh, por falta de una mejor palabra. Muchos capítulos los sentí como de relleno y algunas de las cosas que pasaban eran como forzadas para que la historia siguiera.
Digo amo a Tasha Black, pero en este libro quedó a deber a mi gusto. Voy a seguir leyendo cosas de ella, porque me entretiene la mayoría del tiempo, pero este nunca va a ser de mis favoritos.
Si gustan leerlo, adelante, pero no se van a enamorar del todo de Orion, que claramente es la razón por la cual leemos estos libros.
Digo amo a Tasha Black, pero en este libro quedó a deber a mi gusto. Voy a seguir leyendo cosas de ella, porque me entretiene la mayoría del tiempo, pero este nunca va a ser de mis favoritos.
Si gustan leerlo, adelante, pero no se van a enamorar del todo de Orion, que claramente es la razón por la cual leemos estos libros.
September 1, 2021
I thought this was a very intriguing start for this new series. I found the story entertaining and it held my attention easily. The marriage of convenience trope is not always my favorite but in this case I will say I thought it worked well and I liked it. Hailey and Orion were interesting characters and I felt they made a really good couple. A smartly crafted blend of emotions, drama, sweetness, humor, heat and heart flows across the pages and fuels this terrific romance which left me eager to read more books in this fun series. I'm volitionally posting a candid review.
September 8, 2021
Tasha Black has another new series and it is a hoot seasoned with serious moments and sinister tones. It is a page turner and she keeps her readers wondering what will happen next. A standalone romance but promises to be better when read in the series. An aristocrat and a woman from the wrong side of the planet, strong and stronger, protective of each other. Another great book. I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2021
Another very detailed described alien locale with interesting circumstances. Already loving this new mail order brides series. I love how this just jumps right into the thick of it, maintains a steady enticing flow, how the characters click and how the threads of suspense add to their story without overwhelming it. Enjoyed reading their getting to know you hiccups and got caught up in their chemistry. Fun, entertaining and sweet story. Looking forward to the next adventure. I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to read and leave a review.
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