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Tallean Mercenaries #1
A Deal for Zeylum
Ashe is in trouble with a capital T.
Stuck on a spaceship heading to an intergalactic auction as merchandise, Ashe's future looks grim. So when a dangerous alien outlaw with a bounty on his head solicits her help to break them out of lockup, she jumps on the chance. Ashe only needs to survive long enough with the known criminal to get her end of the bargain. Marooned on a barely civilized and lawless planet, her very survival is in his hands.
As captain of an infamous mercenary vessel, Zeylum carefully cultivates his dastardly reputation with crass words and a brutish exterior. Will Ashe look past his rough facade and fall for the man beneath? Or will she leave him at the end of their adventures for a fresh new start?
Feisty heroine, growly alpha male and lots of action ahead. HEA guaranteed.
Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2020
910 people are currently reading
857 people want to read
About the author
Lynnea Lee
56 books482 followersLynnea Lee is a recovered serial monogamist who now lives in her forever home with the man of her dreams. Still hopelessly addicted to the feeling of falling in love she now feeds her habit with a routine prescription of romance novels and rampant imagination. When she is not dreaming up fantastical stories of love, lust and romance, her hobbies includes talking to her plants, putting on a full face of makeup to stay home on Saturday nights and hugging her dog longer than is appreciated.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
February 2, 2025
An adventure in space!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🩵🖤❤️💚
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: ☹️☺️😍😄
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Solo Narration
The heroine: Ashe - she is a human woman who was kidnapped from her life, taken into space by Dominion slavers and was headed for the auctions, kept in the ships hold in cells with other humans, fighting for the little food and water they are given. Until a huge alien male was captured and taken prisoner along with the humans.
The Hero: Zeylum - he is the captain of a mercenary spaceship, he was famous, and a wanted man. When he gets caught, his captors are more than happy thinking of the huge bounty they will get. The price on Zey’s head was high, but nobody could keep him locked up for long. So when the little human female helps him out, he decides to help her as well.
The Story: When Zeylum makes his move to escape from the Dominion ship, he takes Ashe along with him and they end up in the wilderness on a nearby planet. While camping out in the rugged terrain of an unknown planet, they get to know each other and start bonding. Zeylum is afraid that Ashe will want to go to a safe planet, since Earth is no longer safe. He knew that of living with him on his ship isn’t the kind of life she might want. So, they are each a bit wary of the others feelings and motives.
I tend to really like alien romance books that have a journey or adventure in the story. This was a good example of that, they started in a spaceship, went to a city and then to the wilderness, they ended up on his ship, then on to a new planet. I really liked both of the characters and they were well developed. Zeylum was huge, strong and self-assured, but he had a good heart and he was protective of Ashe, which I really liked. Ashe had a strong character and was interesting in her own right.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via Solo narration and was narrated by Troy Duran. Troy is one of my top five male narrators. He has a deep, sexy voice and always does a fantastic job. I rarely get solo narration audiobooks, but I don’t mind them if it is narrated by Troy. He is great at using different voices for different characters and always sounds very natural.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🩵🖤❤️💚
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: ☹️☺️😍😄
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Solo Narration
The heroine: Ashe - she is a human woman who was kidnapped from her life, taken into space by Dominion slavers and was headed for the auctions, kept in the ships hold in cells with other humans, fighting for the little food and water they are given. Until a huge alien male was captured and taken prisoner along with the humans.
The Hero: Zeylum - he is the captain of a mercenary spaceship, he was famous, and a wanted man. When he gets caught, his captors are more than happy thinking of the huge bounty they will get. The price on Zey’s head was high, but nobody could keep him locked up for long. So when the little human female helps him out, he decides to help her as well.
The Story: When Zeylum makes his move to escape from the Dominion ship, he takes Ashe along with him and they end up in the wilderness on a nearby planet. While camping out in the rugged terrain of an unknown planet, they get to know each other and start bonding. Zeylum is afraid that Ashe will want to go to a safe planet, since Earth is no longer safe. He knew that of living with him on his ship isn’t the kind of life she might want. So, they are each a bit wary of the others feelings and motives.
I tend to really like alien romance books that have a journey or adventure in the story. This was a good example of that, they started in a spaceship, went to a city and then to the wilderness, they ended up on his ship, then on to a new planet. I really liked both of the characters and they were well developed. Zeylum was huge, strong and self-assured, but he had a good heart and he was protective of Ashe, which I really liked. Ashe had a strong character and was interesting in her own right.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via Solo narration and was narrated by Troy Duran. Troy is one of my top five male narrators. He has a deep, sexy voice and always does a fantastic job. I rarely get solo narration audiobooks, but I don’t mind them if it is narrated by Troy. He is great at using different voices for different characters and always sounds very natural.
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December 16, 2021
2.5 stars
September 8, 2021
Why is it always the girl having to change
This author is so so so creative and I love the new worlds she brings us into! But what I didn’t like about this one is how much Ashe had to change to meet Zey’s needs and how he expected it no exceptions. He didn’t change or adapt any of her “human” ways but she needed to get used to being watched and having public sex, learn their language, the list goes on and on. Yes Zey accepted that she was his weakness but that’s essentially it. The rest he was non-negotiable about and as for the mate thing that was instinct so you can count the her being his weakness with that too. I just wish Zey was more…
This author is so so so creative and I love the new worlds she brings us into! But what I didn’t like about this one is how much Ashe had to change to meet Zey’s needs and how he expected it no exceptions. He didn’t change or adapt any of her “human” ways but she needed to get used to being watched and having public sex, learn their language, the list goes on and on. Yes Zey accepted that she was his weakness but that’s essentially it. The rest he was non-negotiable about and as for the mate thing that was instinct so you can count the her being his weakness with that too. I just wish Zey was more…
October 21, 2021
What a Ride! Ashe and Zeylum have quite an adventure Running away from the space mercenaries. They end up stranded on a n alien planet and have to Run for their lives. They have to learn to deal with each other wich is very amusing as Zeylum is very growly and Ashe doesn't really know or trust him. They develop a great conection even with all the drama and manage to evade the Pirates. A great first book that makes you want to read the whole series.
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.
February 14, 2023
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I struggled between 3 or 4 stars for this one. The storyline is good, but I found the author’s writing style a little off putting at times. You would be reading about one character then wham, the next thing you know you are in another characters head space. I did enjoy the story thus why I did give it a 4 ⭐️ rating.
I struggled between 3 or 4 stars for this one. The storyline is good, but I found the author’s writing style a little off putting at times. You would be reading about one character then wham, the next thing you know you are in another characters head space. I did enjoy the story thus why I did give it a 4 ⭐️ rating.
June 21, 2020
A wonderful, hot read!
November 7, 2024
Juvenile writing. Inner monologues were better written than the actual dialogue (so many exclamation points). Romance was practically zero and they just went for it with barely any buildup or explanation of desire. Spicy scenes? In, out, in, out. No waxing poetic on feelings (emotional or physical), etc. So very bland. Escaping prison? Just a handful of sentences. No tension, no drama, no anticipation, no excitement.
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August 19, 2024
Human ladies who hook up (and match in the BEST possible way) with an alien male are my thing. I mean, I LIKE THIS SCENARIO. Sure, Ashe was in a bit of a pickle when Zeylum first crosses her path, but Zey wasn't in the best place either. You know, given how they were both guests being held against their will on a Dominion ship. And by "guests being held against their will" I mean they were prisoners. Just so we're clear.
Ashe is one of many humans stolen from Earth, but Zey is a prize of a different sort. As a Tallean mercenary captain, he's bigger, badder, and the bounty on his head will bring in plenty of credits for his captors. Too bad said captors didn't realize humans are resourceful and willing to team up with the alien in their cell.
Before long, Ashe and Zey are on the run, camping out in the wilds of the planet they fled to, and starting that mating bond thing. Which is a little problematic for Zey since he doesn't think Ashe will want to stay with him aboard his ship. Jokes on him, though, because is willing to do a lot of things since she was stolen that she might not have done before. Staying with a sexy merc who is willing to do anything to keep her safe? NO PROBLEM.
Fierce humans, dangerous planets, bad guys who just keep coming, a male who wasn't looking for his special someone, and a lady who had to deal with a lot of upheaval in a short amount of time. It all works out in the end, though, so YESSSSS!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Ashe is one of many humans stolen from Earth, but Zey is a prize of a different sort. As a Tallean mercenary captain, he's bigger, badder, and the bounty on his head will bring in plenty of credits for his captors. Too bad said captors didn't realize humans are resourceful and willing to team up with the alien in their cell.
Before long, Ashe and Zey are on the run, camping out in the wilds of the planet they fled to, and starting that mating bond thing. Which is a little problematic for Zey since he doesn't think Ashe will want to stay with him aboard his ship. Jokes on him, though, because is willing to do a lot of things since she was stolen that she might not have done before. Staying with a sexy merc who is willing to do anything to keep her safe? NO PROBLEM.
Fierce humans, dangerous planets, bad guys who just keep coming, a male who wasn't looking for his special someone, and a lady who had to deal with a lot of upheaval in a short amount of time. It all works out in the end, though, so YESSSSS!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
October 5, 2024
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Alright, buckle up because this book took me on a wild ride! Picture this: bad guys lurking in the shadows, predators around every corner, and our poor main characters scrambling to escape like they're in an episode of Survivor. But wait—amidst all the chaos, a love connection is brewing! Nothing says "romance" like running for your life, right?
The chemistry between the characters? Chef’s kiss. The banter was on point, and the way they both realized, "Oh hey, maybe we need to rethink a few things here" was oddly relatable. You know, like when you argue over pizza toppings and realize compromise is the spice of life.
The whole “cultural expectations” thing was an interesting twist too. Who knew navigating love and danger could be a lesson in mutual understanding? But hey, they pulled it off!
So, three stars because it was a fun adventure, but it didn't blow my socks off. I mean, I kept them on... just in case of more predators.
Alright, buckle up because this book took me on a wild ride! Picture this: bad guys lurking in the shadows, predators around every corner, and our poor main characters scrambling to escape like they're in an episode of Survivor. But wait—amidst all the chaos, a love connection is brewing! Nothing says "romance" like running for your life, right?
The chemistry between the characters? Chef’s kiss. The banter was on point, and the way they both realized, "Oh hey, maybe we need to rethink a few things here" was oddly relatable. You know, like when you argue over pizza toppings and realize compromise is the spice of life.
The whole “cultural expectations” thing was an interesting twist too. Who knew navigating love and danger could be a lesson in mutual understanding? But hey, they pulled it off!
So, three stars because it was a fun adventure, but it didn't blow my socks off. I mean, I kept them on... just in case of more predators.
June 18, 2023
Survival of the fittest
The author took me on a fantastic adventure with this book. There are bad guys, and predators, and a desperate attempt to get free that mesh perfectly with the brewing love connection between these two. I love the byplay between the characters and how they both discovered they needed to modify their thinking to overcome different cultural expectations. This story is one with a lot of depth and side stories that enhanced the story rather than detract from it. It did have a feel that there’s a prequel or a link to another series that I might have missed, but I didn’t feel lost other than in the story itself. This book is perfect for a weekend read, and I can’t wait to see what happens with the rest of the crew.
The author took me on a fantastic adventure with this book. There are bad guys, and predators, and a desperate attempt to get free that mesh perfectly with the brewing love connection between these two. I love the byplay between the characters and how they both discovered they needed to modify their thinking to overcome different cultural expectations. This story is one with a lot of depth and side stories that enhanced the story rather than detract from it. It did have a feel that there’s a prequel or a link to another series that I might have missed, but I didn’t feel lost other than in the story itself. This book is perfect for a weekend read, and I can’t wait to see what happens with the rest of the crew.
July 3, 2020
This was a first book by this author and its definitely worth the read if you are into this genre. It’s a fast paced read with a mix with action/adventure and romance/steam. Refreshing to see a couple fall in love throughout their adventure rather than be forced together because they are fated mates.
August 20, 2024
Super cute!
This was my first Lynnea Lee book and I really enjoyed it! I haven’t read an alien or sci-fi romance in a while but, this was right up my alley! Swoon worthy, possessive but, teddy bear males? Yes please. While I love the main characters and their story line I did find myself wanting some more world building thrown in there. I found myself wondering how the earth and alien worlds came together and was wanting more information about that. But, it was still really good with a sweet HEA, I’m excited for the second book!
This was my first Lynnea Lee book and I really enjoyed it! I haven’t read an alien or sci-fi romance in a while but, this was right up my alley! Swoon worthy, possessive but, teddy bear males? Yes please. While I love the main characters and their story line I did find myself wanting some more world building thrown in there. I found myself wondering how the earth and alien worlds came together and was wanting more information about that. But, it was still really good with a sweet HEA, I’m excited for the second book!
October 11, 2024
When it rains it pours.
Lately I've just been picking up duds when it comes to books and this one is no exception.
I appreciate the back and forth. Dual point of view, I think it's something that we don't see a lot in romance and when done well, it can be a wonderfully immersive experience to jump back and forth between the characters heads as the action is happening rather than chapter by chapter.
Unfortunately this book was not done well. I didn't mind it being done in third person but I minded was the quality of the writing and the way the story was being told. There was tons of info dumping in the first 20% of the book and then after that the story seems to pick up pace and we have this insta-love moment between our main characters, which makes absolutely no sense to me. I get that they were trying to make it a faded mates situation, but there wasn't enough detail to really push that point across. Because of this tension is just not there. So when they get into the intimate scenes it sort of feels like a “f*** it. I guess this is what we're doing” situation.
Then we have the sort of vague understanding of zay's and his crew's place in the universe. I get that they're sort of like space pirates and they go on various missions. But that's about all. We really get this concrete. Everything else is kind of just wishy-washy.
When it comes to romance, there is absolutely zero romance in here. The characters speak more to themselves than they do to each other about anything of substance.
I do like the creation of the species of her main character, I thought the Tallens were quite unique and had some promise but at the 40% Mark it started to get really painful to keep reading.
The world building was 40% there. There was some interesting Flora and fauna and some of the clothing they wore was also really otherworldly which I liked. However, the dialogue strongly took away from it. Zay's speech was just too modern too human too much like a millennial to sound as if he came from another world. There were moments where the author tried to do the miscommunication thing of some of the human words, but his speech in general was very human.
I love sci-fi romance. I love me a good alien Daddy but this book was not it. The characters could have used way more development and the context of the story could use a lot of developmental work before it gets to a point where I truly find it immersive.
I don't know about you but I do not like the experience of reading something and constantly checking the page to see how far I've got to go and that was my entire experience of this book.
Lately I've just been picking up duds when it comes to books and this one is no exception.
I appreciate the back and forth. Dual point of view, I think it's something that we don't see a lot in romance and when done well, it can be a wonderfully immersive experience to jump back and forth between the characters heads as the action is happening rather than chapter by chapter.
Unfortunately this book was not done well. I didn't mind it being done in third person but I minded was the quality of the writing and the way the story was being told. There was tons of info dumping in the first 20% of the book and then after that the story seems to pick up pace and we have this insta-love moment between our main characters, which makes absolutely no sense to me. I get that they were trying to make it a faded mates situation, but there wasn't enough detail to really push that point across. Because of this tension is just not there. So when they get into the intimate scenes it sort of feels like a “f*** it. I guess this is what we're doing” situation.
Then we have the sort of vague understanding of zay's and his crew's place in the universe. I get that they're sort of like space pirates and they go on various missions. But that's about all. We really get this concrete. Everything else is kind of just wishy-washy.
When it comes to romance, there is absolutely zero romance in here. The characters speak more to themselves than they do to each other about anything of substance.
I do like the creation of the species of her main character, I thought the Tallens were quite unique and had some promise but at the 40% Mark it started to get really painful to keep reading.
The world building was 40% there. There was some interesting Flora and fauna and some of the clothing they wore was also really otherworldly which I liked. However, the dialogue strongly took away from it. Zay's speech was just too modern too human too much like a millennial to sound as if he came from another world. There were moments where the author tried to do the miscommunication thing of some of the human words, but his speech in general was very human.
I love sci-fi romance. I love me a good alien Daddy but this book was not it. The characters could have used way more development and the context of the story could use a lot of developmental work before it gets to a point where I truly find it immersive.
I don't know about you but I do not like the experience of reading something and constantly checking the page to see how far I've got to go and that was my entire experience of this book.
November 15, 2021
3.5 stars.
This book works for what it is. A quick and dirty alien type romance. However the alien part isnt really necessary, you could have written the same plot on earth. And while the cheek and jaw thing is interesting the makeup of the "aliens" are basically just different colour human otherwise. Their clothing, their society structure, their food even is not particularly alien at all. Basically the alien let's the be a bit kinkier but not much, into exhibitionism and maybe swinging (and tickling?) but sex is still just... Kinda unremarkable sex.
The plot kept my interest and it was fun to see the different characters introduced. However once a heroine is kidnapped a second time in the same book....
Anyways I'm going to keep trying this series, it was enough to pique my interest.
This book works for what it is. A quick and dirty alien type romance. However the alien part isnt really necessary, you could have written the same plot on earth. And while the cheek and jaw thing is interesting the makeup of the "aliens" are basically just different colour human otherwise. Their clothing, their society structure, their food even is not particularly alien at all. Basically the alien let's the be a bit kinkier but not much, into exhibitionism and maybe swinging (and tickling?) but sex is still just... Kinda unremarkable sex.
The plot kept my interest and it was fun to see the different characters introduced. However once a heroine is kidnapped a second time in the same book....
Anyways I'm going to keep trying this series, it was enough to pique my interest.
July 2, 2021
"Captain Zeylum of the Defiant, the monster behind the infamous pirate vessel terrorizing the frontier."
Life can't get worse than being abducted by aliens, right? Maybe having an alien pirate thrown into your cell on top of you?
Ashe is making it up as she goes along, and while she may not always get it right, I loved the way she tried, tried to keep her calm, her wits about her, tried to think things through, and tried to learn about this galaxy of unknowns and new things she'd been tossed into.
Zeylum has no delusions about who he is, and has never thought about trying to change... but maybe Ashe is the balance he needs, and someone worth adapting for.
Life can't get worse than being abducted by aliens, right? Maybe having an alien pirate thrown into your cell on top of you?
Ashe is making it up as she goes along, and while she may not always get it right, I loved the way she tried, tried to keep her calm, her wits about her, tried to think things through, and tried to learn about this galaxy of unknowns and new things she'd been tossed into.
Zeylum has no delusions about who he is, and has never thought about trying to change... but maybe Ashe is the balance he needs, and someone worth adapting for.
July 20, 2021
Enjoyed Ashe and Zeylum’s story
It’s a beautiful romantic tale. It’s easy to read and enjoy. I liked it because Zeylum and Ashe were accepting of their attraction and only put up a small push back. They both were kidnapped and put in the same area. Ashe was smart and recognized Zeylum’s strength as well as his sexiness. She got close to him and started asking him questions about his plans. They put together a plan and executed their escape. Their journey begins there. . . Read On!
It’s a beautiful romantic tale. It’s easy to read and enjoy. I liked it because Zeylum and Ashe were accepting of their attraction and only put up a small push back. They both were kidnapped and put in the same area. Ashe was smart and recognized Zeylum’s strength as well as his sexiness. She got close to him and started asking him questions about his plans. They put together a plan and executed their escape. Their journey begins there. . . Read On!
December 14, 2020
Disgusting
You wrote about RAPE at the start of your book like it’s nothing...I was floored I couldn’t believe how u dismissed it so easily in your writings ....I was so disgusted... I read for a little more hoping that u would have done something about it but u wrote about it and then u moved on....I couldn’t believe it so bleeping disgusting
You wrote about RAPE at the start of your book like it’s nothing...I was floored I couldn’t believe how u dismissed it so easily in your writings ....I was so disgusted... I read for a little more hoping that u would have done something about it but u wrote about it and then u moved on....I couldn’t believe it so bleeping disgusting
August 21, 2020
Fast paced story. Zey was exactly the type of male lead I like in my romance novel! Some good steamy sections too.
February 6, 2022
Zeylum is the captain of the mercenary ship the Defiance. He has a bounty on his head and given his life, he never thought he'd find a mate and actively avoids situations that might trigger his mating bond.
Ashley aka Ashe was a graphic artist before she was kidnapped from Earth by a Dominion ship to be sold as a slave. She may be tiny but she has a strength and attitude that will help her survive the upcoming danger, as long as there are no insects to scare the crap out of her.
When Zey is captured and thrown into the same cell as Ashe he doesn't understand why he keeps wanting to protect and care for the tiny human. But he does, he teases and charms her, while doing his best not to trigger his mating bond.
Ashe tries not to attract attention but she can't help sharing her food and water with the bound alien. She doesn't understand why he makes her feel safe, but she hopes he will help her escape.
Whether imprisoned or on the run, after they escape these two can't keep their hands off each other. The only question is if they can get over their insecurities and junk in their heads to stay together after they are safe from recapture.
I've read other books in the Tallean Mercanaries series and while this isn't the best, I see all the seeds planted for the other books in the series that I've really enjoyed.
For more of my reviews follow my blog at https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
If you prefer to listen to my reviews, you can find my reviews on Spotify here: https://anchor.fm/wyldheart-reads
Ashley aka Ashe was a graphic artist before she was kidnapped from Earth by a Dominion ship to be sold as a slave. She may be tiny but she has a strength and attitude that will help her survive the upcoming danger, as long as there are no insects to scare the crap out of her.
When Zey is captured and thrown into the same cell as Ashe he doesn't understand why he keeps wanting to protect and care for the tiny human. But he does, he teases and charms her, while doing his best not to trigger his mating bond.
Ashe tries not to attract attention but she can't help sharing her food and water with the bound alien. She doesn't understand why he makes her feel safe, but she hopes he will help her escape.
Whether imprisoned or on the run, after they escape these two can't keep their hands off each other. The only question is if they can get over their insecurities and junk in their heads to stay together after they are safe from recapture.
I've read other books in the Tallean Mercanaries series and while this isn't the best, I see all the seeds planted for the other books in the series that I've really enjoyed.
For more of my reviews follow my blog at https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
If you prefer to listen to my reviews, you can find my reviews on Spotify here: https://anchor.fm/wyldheart-reads
August 31, 2021
Has some promise, but doesn't deliver.
There are a LOT of alien romances on Kindle--and some of them are actually really good. This is not one of them.
The H is a lot of bluster--a vaguely appealing (but something is off) bad-boy who is suddenly completely tamed by a rather unremarkable human female. His emotional range extends from "kill, protect, mate" to "I'm a failure! She's going to leave me!", and that's pretty much it.
SHE (the h) is written as ignorant and wildly insecure--and one moment she is wringing her hands because she has nothing to bring to the table other than what she can do in the sheets, whereas the next moment she's calmly plotting and scheming to help overcome the bad guy.
Oh yes--the bad guy. The one who will beat and rape a woman quite happily, who is then suddenly not so bad at the end of the book? Wow. Just--wow.
The sexy times are just "cringey". Let's borrow overused pet phrases from other alien romance series, mash them together--and hope that inspires a sense of how magical this couple's chemistry is. Not to mention there is no build-up to the hook-up, and it's insecure insta-love at its worst.
There are some really glaring failures to even attempt good world building, including the alien H referring to himself as having a "caveman" attitude or reaction.
Not great literature, true...not intended to be--but even for what it is, it isn't very good.
There are a LOT of alien romances on Kindle--and some of them are actually really good. This is not one of them.
The H is a lot of bluster--a vaguely appealing (but something is off) bad-boy who is suddenly completely tamed by a rather unremarkable human female. His emotional range extends from "kill, protect, mate" to "I'm a failure! She's going to leave me!", and that's pretty much it.
SHE (the h) is written as ignorant and wildly insecure--and one moment she is wringing her hands because she has nothing to bring to the table other than what she can do in the sheets, whereas the next moment she's calmly plotting and scheming to help overcome the bad guy.
Oh yes--the bad guy. The one who will beat and rape a woman quite happily, who is then suddenly not so bad at the end of the book? Wow. Just--wow.
The sexy times are just "cringey". Let's borrow overused pet phrases from other alien romance series, mash them together--and hope that inspires a sense of how magical this couple's chemistry is. Not to mention there is no build-up to the hook-up, and it's insecure insta-love at its worst.
There are some really glaring failures to even attempt good world building, including the alien H referring to himself as having a "caveman" attitude or reaction.
Not great literature, true...not intended to be--but even for what it is, it isn't very good.
June 24, 2024
Story: Ashe (h), a human woman, is captured and designated as merchandise for an alien auction. Things take a turn when she meets Zeylum (H), the alien captain of a mercenary vessel, who is also imprisoned with her. Despite his fearsome reputation and daunting appearance, Zeylum strikes a deal with Ashe—her assistance in escaping their captors in exchange for her freedom. As they navigate dangers, including being stranded on an alien planet and running from space mercenaries, a connection forms between Zeylum and Ashe, and things heat up between the two. Zeylum, who has never considered settling down due to his dangerous lifestyle, finds himself drawn to Ashe's courage and resilience. He begins to see her as more than just a partner in escape; she becomes his mate, a realization that profoundly changes his priorities. Throughout their journey, Ashe and Zeylum confront not only external threats but also internal conflicts as they struggle with cultural differences and personal insecurities. Their relationship deepens under the strain of constant danger, evolving into a powerful alliance that challenges both to reconsider their preconceptions and plans. Hot and steamy alien-human romance with plenty of action and suspense.
Audio: Narrator Troy Duran does a great job with Zeylum and other male voices, and a good job with Ashe's voice - I personally prefer a female narrator is used to voice female voices. The audio quality is good and there were no issues.
Audio: Narrator Troy Duran does a great job with Zeylum and other male voices, and a good job with Ashe's voice - I personally prefer a female narrator is used to voice female voices. The audio quality is good and there were no issues.
April 13, 2023
Instalove isn't my thing, but I can do it if done well. This wasn't. The story starts with the FMC in a holding cell where the males clearly outnumber the females and the threat of sexual assault is pervasive. A guard sexually assaults another female in clear view of everyone and another guard physically assaults the FMC. Immediately after that, the worst criminal in the galaxy is thrown in the cell with the FMC. And what happens?! She instantly feels safe with him, they become inseparable, and instalove commences. It was too unbelievable after all of that trauma.
On the positive side, I really liked some of the unique plot points the author used. Males and females were kidnapped from Earth. Then, one of the Earth males steps up, helps the imprisoned alien MMC defeat the antagonist, and steals the antagonist's spaceship! Towards the end, the antagonist reveals why he's doing what he's doing. It doesn't absolve him of the kidnapping, but it definitely made me wish there were more pages dedicated to his story as resolution pertaining to him is left as a cliffhanger.
I won't continue the series, but kudos to the author for the equal opportunity kidnappings, a (secondary) MC who embraces a do-over, and a bad guy who may be worth some small measure of redemption.
Kindle
3
On the positive side, I really liked some of the unique plot points the author used. Males and females were kidnapped from Earth. Then, one of the Earth males steps up, helps the imprisoned alien MMC defeat the antagonist, and steals the antagonist's spaceship! Towards the end, the antagonist reveals why he's doing what he's doing. It doesn't absolve him of the kidnapping, but it definitely made me wish there were more pages dedicated to his story as resolution pertaining to him is left as a cliffhanger.
I won't continue the series, but kudos to the author for the equal opportunity kidnappings, a (secondary) MC who embraces a do-over, and a bad guy who may be worth some small measure of redemption.
Kindle
3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2024
DNF. Too black and white.
Very good dialogue and flow, but absolutely no descriptions, colour, smell, feel, or anything to bring the world to life.
I felt like I was skim reading, when I wasn’t.
This is a dime a dozen story, and there are so many more options that include the details I want, soooo.
But if your someone who doesn’t want the extraneous, this one’s for you.
Below is an exert.
The previous page we are in a (un-described) shuttle, about to enter a space port (her first ever) filled with alien criminals, and she has to pretend to be a slave, with a list of offensive commands.
Next page:
Despite being early afternoon, the tavern’s dingy dining hall was scattered with suspicious-looking patrons nursing glasses of foul-smelling booze. Ashe crinkled her nose at the stench. Zey kept a firm grip on her forearm and tugged her behind him as he moved purposefully to join a group playing a game of knives.
They watched a few games silently. Ashe almost heard the gears ticking in his head as he sized up the competition. One of the players, a male who went by the nickname Brawn, was more talented than the rest, and he prided himself on this fact. Ashe peered up at the large stranger through her lashes. He was burly to the point of looking like a bear. Not quite as tall as Zey, but thicker by far and heavily muscled. He held a small knife in his hand.
Very good dialogue and flow, but absolutely no descriptions, colour, smell, feel, or anything to bring the world to life.
I felt like I was skim reading, when I wasn’t.
This is a dime a dozen story, and there are so many more options that include the details I want, soooo.
But if your someone who doesn’t want the extraneous, this one’s for you.
Below is an exert.
The previous page we are in a (un-described) shuttle, about to enter a space port (her first ever) filled with alien criminals, and she has to pretend to be a slave, with a list of offensive commands.
Next page:
Despite being early afternoon, the tavern’s dingy dining hall was scattered with suspicious-looking patrons nursing glasses of foul-smelling booze. Ashe crinkled her nose at the stench. Zey kept a firm grip on her forearm and tugged her behind him as he moved purposefully to join a group playing a game of knives.
They watched a few games silently. Ashe almost heard the gears ticking in his head as he sized up the competition. One of the players, a male who went by the nickname Brawn, was more talented than the rest, and he prided himself on this fact. Ashe peered up at the large stranger through her lashes. He was burly to the point of looking like a bear. Not quite as tall as Zey, but thicker by far and heavily muscled. He held a small knife in his hand.
July 3, 2021
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
I'm a huge fan of Lynnea Lee and this book didn't disappoint. Here we find Ashe has been abducted and thrown into a bitterly cold cell with other abductees. Another "being" is thrown into her cell - a great big huge alien. Ashe is only a tiny little human and she's terrified. The alien is Zeylum a mercenary pirate and captain of his ship The Defiant. The name should say it all about the alien's attitude to just about everything. One thing he does become aware of very quickly - Ashe is his bond-mate. Only there's no way she is going to accept him, so using every bit of patience he has, he slowly gains enough of her trust to allow him to sit and lay close to her to keep her from freezing to death. The story of their long spun-out friendship is riveting. How they escape from their captors and build a union that literally takes them beyond the stars. Ashe and Zeylum are adorable - both very strong in their own ways, the friendships they make along the way are true, sincere and loyal. The book is hard to put down, but then I have that problem with every one of Lynnea's books I read. This series promises to be brilliant and I can't wait for the next one to come out.
I'm a huge fan of Lynnea Lee and this book didn't disappoint. Here we find Ashe has been abducted and thrown into a bitterly cold cell with other abductees. Another "being" is thrown into her cell - a great big huge alien. Ashe is only a tiny little human and she's terrified. The alien is Zeylum a mercenary pirate and captain of his ship The Defiant. The name should say it all about the alien's attitude to just about everything. One thing he does become aware of very quickly - Ashe is his bond-mate. Only there's no way she is going to accept him, so using every bit of patience he has, he slowly gains enough of her trust to allow him to sit and lay close to her to keep her from freezing to death. The story of their long spun-out friendship is riveting. How they escape from their captors and build a union that literally takes them beyond the stars. Ashe and Zeylum are adorable - both very strong in their own ways, the friendships they make along the way are true, sincere and loyal. The book is hard to put down, but then I have that problem with every one of Lynnea's books I read. This series promises to be brilliant and I can't wait for the next one to come out.
October 20, 2021
Ashley has been kidnapped from earth along with many other human males and females by the Dominion. The males are bound for working in the mines and the females are headed for a much worse fate! She can’t imagine how things could get any worse when a huge alien is thrown into her cell with her almost smashing her to death. When she learns he is the dreaded pirate Captain Zeylum she is even more terrified. Fortunately he is chained up very securely. But being the softy that she is she manages to get him some of the food and water they are given each day. The next morning she finds out he has managed to get out of his chains and has kept her warm during the night. Maybe he isn’t so bad after all. She figures he is her best chance at escape so they make a deal! Then the fun begins.
This is a delightful story of Zey and Ash’s journey from escape to being rescued. Along the way they both must face some personal demons and move past them in order for their relationship to have a chance. Don’t miss it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a delightful story of Zey and Ash’s journey from escape to being rescued. Along the way they both must face some personal demons and move past them in order for their relationship to have a chance. Don’t miss it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2021
Verified ARC Reader
Zeylum yearned to keep Ashe and make her his mate!
by sewsummore
Zeylum was the Captain of the Defiant, a pirate vessel terrorizing the frontier. He had been captured after he was betrayed by a former lover and was thrown into the cells of a space craft with abducted human men and women destined for the slave trade. However, with the help of Ashe, a lone human female he was able to steal a shuttle and escape to the closest planet. Zeylum knew his men would come for him after he contacted them and the two of them would be safe. Zeylum had promised Ashe he would take her to Reka 5 once they were free of pursuit. He had admired and respected the tiny human who was the reason he had been able to escape but the more time he spent in her company, the less he wanted to leave her. This was an enjoyable and exciting read. Zeylum was a male with many admirable qualities, he yearned to make her his mate, but felt she would be safer on Reka 5. Does Ashe stay with Zeylum? You will have to read the book to find out for yourself!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2021
A story that grabbed me from the beginning. Ashe and other humans have been abducted from earth and are being transported on a ship. An alien is added to their holding cell - Zeylum, a pirate that has been captured and is to be turned in for a bounty. Ashe helps him with food and he returns the favor by helping keep her warm at night. They come to have a soft spot for each other.
There is danger throughout the story. Some Tallen men see human women as slaves for them to do whatever they want with. Zey vows to keep Ashe safe until they reach Reka 5. The more time they spend together, they begin to question if parting at Reka 5 is really what they want. I was surprised at how much action we get after reaching Reka 5. I figured the story would be wrapping up, but not so.
We get a great introduction to the crew of the Defiant and Second Chance in this story to start the series. I had previously read Vore's story and was excited to go to the beginning and read the series in order. This story did not disappoint. Can't wait to move on to book 2.
There is danger throughout the story. Some Tallen men see human women as slaves for them to do whatever they want with. Zey vows to keep Ashe safe until they reach Reka 5. The more time they spend together, they begin to question if parting at Reka 5 is really what they want. I was surprised at how much action we get after reaching Reka 5. I figured the story would be wrapping up, but not so.
We get a great introduction to the crew of the Defiant and Second Chance in this story to start the series. I had previously read Vore's story and was excited to go to the beginning and read the series in order. This story did not disappoint. Can't wait to move on to book 2.
February 24, 2021
Worth reading.
I liked this book a lot. It was filled with action, adventure, and romance. It does contain a couple of incidents describing sexual assault involving secondary characters and one near miss with the main character, so a trigger warning should be provided. The world building was imaginative and the story flowed nicely.
My one criticism is that this author needs to find an editor. The number of times I was pulled out of the story because the verbs suddenly changed tenses, or the spelling was wonky, or a plural word was made singular or singular word made plural were too numerous to count! Sometimes verb tenses changed in the middle of sentences!! I often had the feeling the book was written in another language and then translated by a computer program. If the book was translated or written by a non-native English speaker, then they did a better job than I could have done translating into a foreign language, but please go find a native speaker to edit the book before publishing it! Your readers will thank you!
I liked this book a lot. It was filled with action, adventure, and romance. It does contain a couple of incidents describing sexual assault involving secondary characters and one near miss with the main character, so a trigger warning should be provided. The world building was imaginative and the story flowed nicely.
My one criticism is that this author needs to find an editor. The number of times I was pulled out of the story because the verbs suddenly changed tenses, or the spelling was wonky, or a plural word was made singular or singular word made plural were too numerous to count! Sometimes verb tenses changed in the middle of sentences!! I often had the feeling the book was written in another language and then translated by a computer program. If the book was translated or written by a non-native English speaker, then they did a better job than I could have done translating into a foreign language, but please go find a native speaker to edit the book before publishing it! Your readers will thank you!
May 5, 2021
1st published work by new artist - Grest way to start your career in PNRs!
Written for mature readers only (18+ years old) due to subject matter that may be a trigger or offensive to some including adult language, steamy intimate scenes and violence.
As I understand it, this is the first story to be published by Lynnea Lee. What a way to start! The story universe was started for a few different places. There were 2 scenes that I was wishing for a bit more detail, but I don’t want to potential provide any spoilers so I won’t include any details. Zey and Ashe are an interesting couple, oh the stories a pirate space cowboy could tell if he was only real outside my imagination .... 🤪
I recommend this for any reader that is not offended by what some consider darker subjects (abduction / kidnapping, human trafficking, assault, etc.), that loves a series that becomes more detailed and lively as the stories continue, and whomever wants some action in their reality suspending PNR stories.
Written for mature readers only (18+ years old) due to subject matter that may be a trigger or offensive to some including adult language, steamy intimate scenes and violence.
As I understand it, this is the first story to be published by Lynnea Lee. What a way to start! The story universe was started for a few different places. There were 2 scenes that I was wishing for a bit more detail, but I don’t want to potential provide any spoilers so I won’t include any details. Zey and Ashe are an interesting couple, oh the stories a pirate space cowboy could tell if he was only real outside my imagination .... 🤪
I recommend this for any reader that is not offended by what some consider darker subjects (abduction / kidnapping, human trafficking, assault, etc.), that loves a series that becomes more detailed and lively as the stories continue, and whomever wants some action in their reality suspending PNR stories.
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