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Galaxy Games #1
Down to One
All the unbridled passion and gut-clenching action that can fit on the page.
Stakes are high when alien gladiator Titan and abducted Earth girl Blaze are forced into The Game.
Forming a tenuous alliance to battle the hundred other alien combatants increases their odds of staying alive. As they contend with constant camera surveillance and wage a life-or-death campaign to survive, the unlikely duo can't ignore their sizzling attraction.
Despite their deepening connection, it isn't safe to trust because in The Game it all comes Down. To. One.
Award-winning author Alana Khan writes as Anna Lynn in this gritty departure from the heartwarming and hopeful science fiction romances of the Alanaverse. Dare to join Blaze and Titan on their adventure as they dodge death and accept the profound attraction they feel for one another that may ultimately prove fatal for one or both of them. Fans of Alana Khan be warned: the emotional connection you crave lies between the pages of Down To One, but elements of suspense and a savage struggle for survival are unlike anything you've read from Alana before.
Warning: This book is spicy and contains violence. For readers 18+.
Stakes are high when alien gladiator Titan and abducted Earth girl Blaze are forced into The Game.
Forming a tenuous alliance to battle the hundred other alien combatants increases their odds of staying alive. As they contend with constant camera surveillance and wage a life-or-death campaign to survive, the unlikely duo can't ignore their sizzling attraction.
Despite their deepening connection, it isn't safe to trust because in The Game it all comes Down. To. One.
Award-winning author Alana Khan writes as Anna Lynn in this gritty departure from the heartwarming and hopeful science fiction romances of the Alanaverse. Dare to join Blaze and Titan on their adventure as they dodge death and accept the profound attraction they feel for one another that may ultimately prove fatal for one or both of them. Fans of Alana Khan be warned: the emotional connection you crave lies between the pages of Down To One, but elements of suspense and a savage struggle for survival are unlike anything you've read from Alana before.
Warning: This book is spicy and contains violence. For readers 18+.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2021
116 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Alana Khan
175 books619 followersSexy Alien Heroes, Sassy Human Heroines, Stories That Satisfy
Alana Khan is a USA TODAY Bestselling author whose pen traverses galaxies and explores the extraordinary.
In a life as diverse as her stories, Alana boasts IMDB film credits, thrilling Harley adventures on open roads, and a stint as a professional spoon player—because, why not?
With a background as a psychotherapist, she delves into the human psyche, enriching her storytelling.
Join her on fantastical journeys through her novels, where cosmic romance and monstrous love merge with spice as hot as a Carolina Reeper chili pepper.
Sign up for Alana's free newsletter at https://alanakhan.com/
Follow me on Bookbub to be notified when my books go on sale: https://www.bookbub.com/search?search...
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Alana Khan is a USA TODAY Bestselling author whose pen traverses galaxies and explores the extraordinary.
In a life as diverse as her stories, Alana boasts IMDB film credits, thrilling Harley adventures on open roads, and a stint as a professional spoon player—because, why not?
With a background as a psychotherapist, she delves into the human psyche, enriching her storytelling.
Join her on fantastical journeys through her novels, where cosmic romance and monstrous love merge with spice as hot as a Carolina Reeper chili pepper.
Sign up for Alana's free newsletter at https://alanakhan.com/
Follow me on Bookbub to be notified when my books go on sale: https://www.bookbub.com/search?search...
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/alana.khan.5...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
March 11, 2024
Hunger Games, alien style!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙❤️💚💜
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😊😘😟😄
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Slayer (a.k.a. Blaze) - she is tiny, but mighty. She is only 5’2” and human, but she was a trained military sniper, and she grew up in foster care, so she knew how to fight. Though when she was stolen from her barracks by aliens, she was sold as a housemaid. Three years later, her owner finds out about her abilities and enters her in “The Game”.
The Hero: Titan (a.k.a. Zavick) - he has been a slave for over a decade. He is a gladiator and is good at it. He is the best gladiator for his owner. Though he gets caught by his master while he is servicing the masters’ mate. He didn’t want to do it, but how can a slave refuse an order from the mistress. He is punished by his master by whipping, then when he didn’t think he could take anymore, they decide not to kill him and to instead they drug him and put him in “The Game”, they can bet against him and win a bundle.
The Story: The game is similar to the hunger games, except it starts right away, with no build up or training. There are no rules, and 100 contestants but only one can win. The last one alive gets a million credits and whether they are slaves or criminals they get their freedom. Of course, the producers can change the rules at any time or add more contestants to the game. The contestants can become favorites of the viewers and get credits they can use to buy things like food or weapons.
Blaze and Titan become partners right away before the game begins, because all the other contestants have already formed alliances and groups. Blaze turns out to be an early fan favorite, though she is ranked last among the contestants left after the first few hours. Titan is a gladiator, so he is ranked near the top, but isn’t as much of a fan favorite. The two of them feel an instant attraction so they take advantage and hook up during their first opportunity (which is a bit strange in my opinion) since they know they are on camera.
The concept and much of the plot is certainly derivative of The Hunger Games but is sort of original for alien romance. Though gladiatorial fights are not, this game was a bit more fun than most. The two main characters did get intimate way too soon, but it was certainly steamy and I kind of liked the romance between these two.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Ramona Master and C.J. Grey. This is the first time I have listened to Ramona Master, and I enjoyed her voice, it was very clear, yet feminine and believable for Blaze. C.J. Grey is always fantastic. He has a deep and gravelly voice and is terrific at alien romance.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙❤️💚💜
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😊😘😟😄
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Slayer (a.k.a. Blaze) - she is tiny, but mighty. She is only 5’2” and human, but she was a trained military sniper, and she grew up in foster care, so she knew how to fight. Though when she was stolen from her barracks by aliens, she was sold as a housemaid. Three years later, her owner finds out about her abilities and enters her in “The Game”.
The Hero: Titan (a.k.a. Zavick) - he has been a slave for over a decade. He is a gladiator and is good at it. He is the best gladiator for his owner. Though he gets caught by his master while he is servicing the masters’ mate. He didn’t want to do it, but how can a slave refuse an order from the mistress. He is punished by his master by whipping, then when he didn’t think he could take anymore, they decide not to kill him and to instead they drug him and put him in “The Game”, they can bet against him and win a bundle.
The Story: The game is similar to the hunger games, except it starts right away, with no build up or training. There are no rules, and 100 contestants but only one can win. The last one alive gets a million credits and whether they are slaves or criminals they get their freedom. Of course, the producers can change the rules at any time or add more contestants to the game. The contestants can become favorites of the viewers and get credits they can use to buy things like food or weapons.
Blaze and Titan become partners right away before the game begins, because all the other contestants have already formed alliances and groups. Blaze turns out to be an early fan favorite, though she is ranked last among the contestants left after the first few hours. Titan is a gladiator, so he is ranked near the top, but isn’t as much of a fan favorite. The two of them feel an instant attraction so they take advantage and hook up during their first opportunity (which is a bit strange in my opinion) since they know they are on camera.
The concept and much of the plot is certainly derivative of The Hunger Games but is sort of original for alien romance. Though gladiatorial fights are not, this game was a bit more fun than most. The two main characters did get intimate way too soon, but it was certainly steamy and I kind of liked the romance between these two.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Ramona Master and C.J. Grey. This is the first time I have listened to Ramona Master, and I enjoyed her voice, it was very clear, yet feminine and believable for Blaze. C.J. Grey is always fantastic. He has a deep and gravelly voice and is terrific at alien romance.
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May 12, 2023
3.5 Stars ⭐️
The vibe here was an X-rated Sci-fi alien version of the hunger games/running man. It was an intriguing read that didn’t grab me straight away but did start to get better the further I read. initially, it felt a bit underdeveloped but fortunately, this did improve as the story began to unfold.
Both Blaze and Xzavic under their slave names of Slayer and Titan find themselves unwilling participants in the network-televised tv show ‘The Game’ Both are there because they’ve upset their current masters. The rules here are simple 100 enter 99 will die and only one can ultimately walk away with their freedom. The live-action will be networked to the population who can assist their favourite players by way of credits.
Xzavic is a 7ft blue alien gladiator and a definite favourite to win whilst Blaze is a small-statured human previously targeted and abducted from Earth for her particular skill set. Despite knowing that it’s likely that they will have to attempt to eliminate each other from the competition these two team up for added protection.
Though they try to stay detached the intensity of the current situation and their constant reliance on each other means this is an impossibility. Using every tool at their disposal including their intense attraction Blaze and Xzavic attempt to take on the corrupt and unfair system and rules managing to win support from the masses along the way.
This was intense and immersive and kept me on the edge of my seat. It was also incredibly spicy and these two had plenty of poignant chemistry. It was a tad instalove but not in a bad way as it did kind of work for this. I enjoyed this it had lots to recommend it and the second half of this was definitely stronger in terms of my engagement and interest. Overall this was a decent arena-type romance it wasn’t perfect but it was mostly enjoyable.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
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January 29, 2022I'm so glad this book will now be available on the regular Amazon platform and on KU. I first published it on Amazon's new episodic platform, Vella. Now that it's complete in that venue, I've uploaded it for pre-order on Amazon.
I have had an absolute BLAST writing in the episodic format. Really, all that's different is that the episodes are shorter than my regular chapters, and all end with exciting cliffhangers. (The book does NOT end in a cliffhanger--I hate them, too).
The reason I published it as "Alana Khan writing as Anna Lynn" is that this is grittier than my normal "brand" and I didn't want my regular readers to be surprised at the content. To be honest, though, no one has complained.
The Game is set in a dystopian side of the Alanaverse where, as one reviewer put it "Hunger Games meets Spartacus." It starts with one hundred participants and only one can survive. So, Alana, you might ask, how are you going to make a romance out of that? Well, as I used to say in my third-grade book reports, "You'll just have to read it to find out."
Down to Two and Down to Three are available on Vella and will also soon be out on Amazon. All three books (all STANDALONES) will publish on the 'Zon in March, April, and May.
As the blurb says: All the unbridled passion and gut-clenching action that can fit on the page.
I have had an absolute BLAST writing in the episodic format. Really, all that's different is that the episodes are shorter than my regular chapters, and all end with exciting cliffhangers. (The book does NOT end in a cliffhanger--I hate them, too).
The reason I published it as "Alana Khan writing as Anna Lynn" is that this is grittier than my normal "brand" and I didn't want my regular readers to be surprised at the content. To be honest, though, no one has complained.
The Game is set in a dystopian side of the Alanaverse where, as one reviewer put it "Hunger Games meets Spartacus." It starts with one hundred participants and only one can survive. So, Alana, you might ask, how are you going to make a romance out of that? Well, as I used to say in my third-grade book reports, "You'll just have to read it to find out."
Down to Two and Down to Three are available on Vella and will also soon be out on Amazon. All three books (all STANDALONES) will publish on the 'Zon in March, April, and May.
As the blurb says: All the unbridled passion and gut-clenching action that can fit on the page.
July 1, 2022
4 ⭐️
Good book something similar to Hunger games but with Aliens 🤪 the first 2/3 of the book was great but the last third was just stretched out the book could have finished much faster.
Good book something similar to Hunger games but with Aliens 🤪 the first 2/3 of the book was great but the last third was just stretched out the book could have finished much faster.
March 23, 2022
This was such an exciting read and, I have to say, it kept me up past my bedtime ;D A survivor game that's supposed to leave only one person alive at the end is an interesting premise when it comes to a romance story. This piqued my interest but the characters, action, chemistry and plot kept me glued to my reader. I'm not giving anything away but I will say you won't be disappointed when you crack this baby open and dive right into a fab reading ride.
January 27, 2023
***3.5***
Hunger Games set in an alien landscape is really the perfect description for this book. 100 people --think slaves, criminals, people who pissed off the wrong people--are forced to compete in The Game where there can be only one winner. Their every move is recorded by drones and aired. There is literally nowhere they can hide. Viewers at home can send their favorite players credits to buy extra rations or weapons, competitors can team up, civilians can aid them in real time, but in the end, there can be only one winner. Oh, and did I mention each competitor comes with their very own, top of the line, shock collar that could can deliver shocks or take their heads off at the whim of the TV execs? Yeah, so there's that, too.Titan and Blaze team up from the onset because they were the two outsiders. While their first interaction left much to be desired in terms of teamwork, by the end of day one, they decide maybe it's not so bad working together afterall. This show could also be called The Sex Game after the first night. That's all I'm saying. I guess if you're going to go out, go out banging a super hot alien gladiator. Normally this kind of instalust/love is not my shtick, but crazy stuff happens in really intense situations. I can see how emotions might develop really quickly if you think every moment might be your last. This ended up being a quick, fun, pretty smutty read that made me tear up just a bit.
Hunger Games set in an alien landscape is really the perfect description for this book. 100 people --think slaves, criminals, people who pissed off the wrong people--are forced to compete in The Game where there can be only one winner. Their every move is recorded by drones and aired. There is literally nowhere they can hide. Viewers at home can send their favorite players credits to buy extra rations or weapons, competitors can team up, civilians can aid them in real time, but in the end, there can be only one winner. Oh, and did I mention each competitor comes with their very own, top of the line, shock collar that could can deliver shocks or take their heads off at the whim of the TV execs? Yeah, so there's that, too.Titan and Blaze team up from the onset because they were the two outsiders. While their first interaction left much to be desired in terms of teamwork, by the end of day one, they decide maybe it's not so bad working together afterall. This show could also be called The Sex Game after the first night. That's all I'm saying. I guess if you're going to go out, go out banging a super hot alien gladiator. Normally this kind of instalust/love is not my shtick, but crazy stuff happens in really intense situations. I can see how emotions might develop really quickly if you think every moment might be your last. This ended up being a quick, fun, pretty smutty read that made me tear up just a bit.
March 5, 2022
I found it a pleasure to read this absolutely fascinating Sci-Fi alien romance. It is the first book in the “Galaxy Games, Hostile Planet”series & it promises to be an enthralling series. (The author has already mentioned trigger warnings, so I’m not going to repeat them) This plot is well-written with good world-building & outstanding scene descriptions and the reader’s attention is firmly kept with unexpected jaw-dropping situations. The characters are well-developed & portray realistic emotional feelings while reacting with believable reactions as they continuing to develop throughout the storyline to become emotional strong individuals who love each other. There is good support from the secondary characters.
There is: a alien gladiator (Titan), a human female (Blaze), various kinds of aliens, despicable villains, a deadly game, diabolical schemes, a resistance organization, unexpected allies, deceit, action, adventure, twists & turns, intrigue, suspense, abduction, threats, danger, violence, enemies, manipulations, life-threatening incidents, survival issues, courage, determination, surprises, steamy scenes, love & a well-deserved satisfying conclusion. I would definitely recommend this book to people who enjoy reading this genre.
There is: a alien gladiator (Titan), a human female (Blaze), various kinds of aliens, despicable villains, a deadly game, diabolical schemes, a resistance organization, unexpected allies, deceit, action, adventure, twists & turns, intrigue, suspense, abduction, threats, danger, violence, enemies, manipulations, life-threatening incidents, survival issues, courage, determination, surprises, steamy scenes, love & a well-deserved satisfying conclusion. I would definitely recommend this book to people who enjoy reading this genre.
January 9, 2022
A new series by Alana Khan this on is set against an Olympic Games type scenario - except the can only be one winner - alive.
The contestants get to chose their "partner" and being a tiny human, Blaze is the last one to be chosen - by alien gladiator Titan. She wasn't who he wanted and he wouldn't have been her choice either, so they start with a certain amount of animosity towards each other. It soon becomes very apparent that they both have abilities that are valuable to each other so start to work together. Along the route, a friendship builds that soon becomes respect. It is also apparent that there is a higher force who wants Titan dead.
How are they going to stay alert enough to not only get through each trial, but stay alive?
The scheme behind this story is diabolical, but thoroughly enjoyable and as with all of Alan's books I've read, very hard to put down. It's literally "just one more chapter, just one more chapter". Next thing you know you've read all night and missed meals.
Do I recommend this book? Most definitely.
The contestants get to chose their "partner" and being a tiny human, Blaze is the last one to be chosen - by alien gladiator Titan. She wasn't who he wanted and he wouldn't have been her choice either, so they start with a certain amount of animosity towards each other. It soon becomes very apparent that they both have abilities that are valuable to each other so start to work together. Along the route, a friendship builds that soon becomes respect. It is also apparent that there is a higher force who wants Titan dead.
How are they going to stay alert enough to not only get through each trial, but stay alive?
The scheme behind this story is diabolical, but thoroughly enjoyable and as with all of Alan's books I've read, very hard to put down. It's literally "just one more chapter, just one more chapter". Next thing you know you've read all night and missed meals.
Do I recommend this book? Most definitely.
March 15, 2022
Wow! This was a fantastic book! It hooked me from the start and I couldn't put it down. Great world building. I absolutely loved the characters. Blaze grew up in the foster care system and was later in the army. She is abducted by aliens for her skills and thrown in The Game- a brutal free-for-all battle to the death. Titan is an alien gladiator owned as a slave and used for battle and sex. He, too is thrown into The Game. There can be only one survivor at the end. This story is action-packed and fast-paced, exciting and suspenseful. I loved every page. Fantastic! I highly recommend picking this one up! 5 stars.
March 27, 2022
The first book in the Galaxy Games Hostile Planet Alien Romance Series. Alien gladiator Titan and abducted Earth girl Blaze(Slayer)'s story. The story is well written with a great storyline I was not putting this book down until I was finished. The angst, and their love made this story well worth reading. I would recommend.
March 10, 2022
This story is a nail biting, edge of your seat, ride from start to finish! I was terrified for the hero and heroine and went from ecstatically happy to wanting to cry. It has all the feels and I guarantee you won’t want to put it down before you’re finished!
March 7, 2022
Newest entry from Alana Khan with the Galaxy Games. The plot was really good along with the world-building. There was a lot of action and also steamy scenes. Really enjoyed the hero and heroine in this one too.The bad guys were really bad and I wish they would have gotten their comeuppance. Since this is a series, that could be why. Can't wait for the next one!
March 5, 2022
Outstanding sci-fi romance. Action packed and full of drama. Blaze and Savik are really intriguing characters that capture your interest and support from the beginning. Steamy and romantic in a background kind of like the hunger games. I loved this story all the way through. Couldn’t put it down. Looking forward to more within this new world. Definitely recommend.
March 4, 2022
Blaze surviving in a hostile world managing to save a vital part of herself. Xzavic a slave owned Body and soul by whom ever meets his sale price. The world so wrong on so many levels. How can two lost souls find a modicum of peace. While I hated their fates I couldn’t put the book down.
February 1, 2022
I admit, I love almost all of Alana Khan’s books and usually read each one within a week of release. I read this one in installments on Kindle Vella and it was everything I hoped it would be. There was steamy romance, of course! But there was also suspense, playfulness, character depth, a great story arc, and so much more. If you like steamy romance and books like The Hunger Games, I really think you will enjoy this book.
June 6, 2022
DNF - quit at 35%
I just lost interest because I wasn't really pulled into the story. I don't know, I just wasn't feeling the connection at all between the characters or the plot. Also, Blaze was just really hard to like as a FMC. Titan garnered more sympathy because of his history given -to that point, making him feel like he got the raw end of the deal in life in general. Them jumping right into the sex within maybe 8-12 hours together (not sure of the exact amount of time), seemed like there was a time limit set up that they had to rest after their gruesome day started, and as soon as they reach that rest place, they are banging -just because they are horny. It just really didn't make sense to waste their precious energy on sex instead of conserving it for the grueling game. A lot of stuff just didn't make sense to this story though.
At my age (60), life is way too short & my time is too important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
I just lost interest because I wasn't really pulled into the story. I don't know, I just wasn't feeling the connection at all between the characters or the plot. Also, Blaze was just really hard to like as a FMC. Titan garnered more sympathy because of his history given -to that point, making him feel like he got the raw end of the deal in life in general. Them jumping right into the sex within maybe 8-12 hours together (not sure of the exact amount of time), seemed like there was a time limit set up that they had to rest after their gruesome day started, and as soon as they reach that rest place, they are banging -just because they are horny. It just really didn't make sense to waste their precious energy on sex instead of conserving it for the grueling game. A lot of stuff just didn't make sense to this story though.
At my age (60), life is way too short & my time is too important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
March 31, 2022
surprised
Have to admit I was really looking forward to reading this. Got lost about half the way through when I realized I was skipping more pages than reading. I’m surprised because I’ve become such a fan of the gladiator books I’ve read but this was a hard nope. Wasn’t really drabs for me, more like a big glove hanging over head, swatting people around and then a little more sex thrown in to appeal to the readers who only read for the porn. No connection between the two characters, really felt like strangers bouncing off each other for kicks. Not sure if I’m going to read the next one. If it’s a repeat of this formula, probably not. Was really thinking I’d like these two when it started out. Maybe I’m just a space gladiator girl.
Have to admit I was really looking forward to reading this. Got lost about half the way through when I realized I was skipping more pages than reading. I’m surprised because I’ve become such a fan of the gladiator books I’ve read but this was a hard nope. Wasn’t really drabs for me, more like a big glove hanging over head, swatting people around and then a little more sex thrown in to appeal to the readers who only read for the porn. No connection between the two characters, really felt like strangers bouncing off each other for kicks. Not sure if I’m going to read the next one. If it’s a repeat of this formula, probably not. Was really thinking I’d like these two when it started out. Maybe I’m just a space gladiator girl.
January 22, 2022
This is a great world building story of survival. The male hero, if you can call him that, starts the story and grabs you. Our heroine, Blaze- I love that name, has secrets you are dying to find out. They are running for their lives in The Game, being setup at every turn and falling in love while doing it all. Fabulous book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2022
The two main characters have their work cut out for them. The stage is set for them to lose…. big time. Danger is not only all around them, but purposely sent to kill them and all for The Game, or is it …. revenge?
January 13, 2022
This story is a nail biting, edge of your seat, ride from start to finish! I was terrified for the hero and heroine and went from ecstatically happy to wanting to cry. It has all the feels and I guarantee you won’t want to put it down before you’re finished!
January 11, 2022
This is a dark and gritty sci-fi romance.. I liked it. Great chemistry, and super scenes!
January 17, 2023
Alien reality show - Battle to the death - Down To One!
Start of a new series within the Galaxy Universe. Can absolutely be read as a stand-alone. There are no reoccurring characters, but there is a mention of Sanctuary and it has some of the same reoccurring themes.
** There are multiple scenes, themes and references to subjects that will be difficult for sensitive readers. These include abduction, enslavement, forced mating, mental health challenges, and trafficking. A high-level list is included below. **
— Although I try to watch it, if you have not read this, the following may contain spoilers. —
What do you have when you take 100 slaves and prisoners, place them in an old gymnasium, and tell them whoever is the lone survivor to reach a certain destination receives their freedom and one million credits? Rules? There are none. It is an alien PPV reality show / free for all, that ends up with some NSFW scenes. I am only surprised that one of our irl networks haven’t tried something similar 😁.
The story universe and characters are well defined. There are some scenes that made me LOL until tears were running down my cheeks, others that made me gag, and some that were heartfelt and emotional. That is one of the things I am really enjoying with Alana Khan’s stories and series. She always makes them come to life and keeps me engaged.
I mention the following for readers such as myself that visualize the story as it is read, because errors interrupt the flow. There are a few grammatical errors, but nothing difficult to interpret. These include incorrect word choice / typos, punctuation, word tense, extra inserted word, and inconsistent data regarding possessive words ending in ‘s’. I uploaded my notes to goodreads for anyone interested.
In this story, Titan, was abducted from his home world and forced into slavery about 15 years ago. He is currently being forced to ‘service’ his ‘mistress’ until her mate arrives home and catches them ‘in flagrente delicto’ (Obviously this is rape and a dark subject, but Alana helps alleviate it somewhat with subtle humor). Titan is then lashed with a whip and thought he was going to be beaten to death until his ‘mistress’ recommends he be entered into The Game her mate is producing. Titan is to be treated and drugged before he is transported.
Blaze, aka Slayer as she was renamed by her ‘owner’), is a human female that was abducted from Earth about 3 years ago. She was taken straight from her bunk at the military base. Blaze was lucky to have been placed as the only slave within her household. Then her ‘owner’ became aware of her special skills and she was placed somewhere else. When Blaze didn’t perform to their standards she was forced into a hover and brought to an old office. There she was ‘presented’ a 14-page contract. From the look of 🩸 on the floor, refusing to sign it was not an option.
Afterwards Blaze was thrown into a room with a lot of other species. None of them look like the type to bring home to meet the parents. Blaze had heard the commercials, so she knew a little about The Game and how it was going to be ‘Down To One’. She has some great skills, but hand-to-hand combat is not one of them, so she knows her best chance to survive the next hour is to get within a group. It becomes clear that is not going to be easy, then a newcomer is ‘escorted’ into the room.
Titan is still feeling the effects of whatever it was they gave him. When he enters the room he scopes out the others. There are only a few gladiators mixed in among what appears to be mainly the ‘lowest of the low’ prisoners. Then there is a female human, or Morganian, that is the size of a child in his species. She is staring at him and starts moving toward him.
Blaze approaches the blue/green male and gives him her best proposal to work as a team. It is a win/win for him, so he agrees. She can either pull her own weight, provide a distraction to his opponents, or die trying. Then The Game begins. Titan stops Blaze from trying to get out first so the others can battle it out. This also gives them the opportunity to find and secure a weapon. Blaze doesn’t know how Titan is going to do that, but then he rips some piping from the old bleachers. Then they are ready to breach the doorway where they know others are waiting to kill them …
There are powerful forces behind the scenes that also want to shut them up … can they find a way to survive, together?
⛔️ Story contains references to, or scenes detailing, subject matter that may be a trigger or offensive to some, including, but not limited to: adult language; derogatory terms; mental health challenges with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, etc.; steamy adult intimate scenes with dominance, submission, etc.; violence throughout typical of the alien abduction genre such as kidnapping / abduction, murder / death, torture, assault, rage , fighting, human (species) trafficking, enslavement, pain/kill collar, mental, physical and sexual abuse of adults and children, coercion, etc.
Start of a new series within the Galaxy Universe. Can absolutely be read as a stand-alone. There are no reoccurring characters, but there is a mention of Sanctuary and it has some of the same reoccurring themes.
** There are multiple scenes, themes and references to subjects that will be difficult for sensitive readers. These include abduction, enslavement, forced mating, mental health challenges, and trafficking. A high-level list is included below. **
— Although I try to watch it, if you have not read this, the following may contain spoilers. —
What do you have when you take 100 slaves and prisoners, place them in an old gymnasium, and tell them whoever is the lone survivor to reach a certain destination receives their freedom and one million credits? Rules? There are none. It is an alien PPV reality show / free for all, that ends up with some NSFW scenes. I am only surprised that one of our irl networks haven’t tried something similar 😁.
The story universe and characters are well defined. There are some scenes that made me LOL until tears were running down my cheeks, others that made me gag, and some that were heartfelt and emotional. That is one of the things I am really enjoying with Alana Khan’s stories and series. She always makes them come to life and keeps me engaged.
I mention the following for readers such as myself that visualize the story as it is read, because errors interrupt the flow. There are a few grammatical errors, but nothing difficult to interpret. These include incorrect word choice / typos, punctuation, word tense, extra inserted word, and inconsistent data regarding possessive words ending in ‘s’. I uploaded my notes to goodreads for anyone interested.
In this story, Titan, was abducted from his home world and forced into slavery about 15 years ago. He is currently being forced to ‘service’ his ‘mistress’ until her mate arrives home and catches them ‘in flagrente delicto’ (Obviously this is rape and a dark subject, but Alana helps alleviate it somewhat with subtle humor). Titan is then lashed with a whip and thought he was going to be beaten to death until his ‘mistress’ recommends he be entered into The Game her mate is producing. Titan is to be treated and drugged before he is transported.
Blaze, aka Slayer as she was renamed by her ‘owner’), is a human female that was abducted from Earth about 3 years ago. She was taken straight from her bunk at the military base. Blaze was lucky to have been placed as the only slave within her household. Then her ‘owner’ became aware of her special skills and she was placed somewhere else. When Blaze didn’t perform to their standards she was forced into a hover and brought to an old office. There she was ‘presented’ a 14-page contract. From the look of 🩸 on the floor, refusing to sign it was not an option.
Afterwards Blaze was thrown into a room with a lot of other species. None of them look like the type to bring home to meet the parents. Blaze had heard the commercials, so she knew a little about The Game and how it was going to be ‘Down To One’. She has some great skills, but hand-to-hand combat is not one of them, so she knows her best chance to survive the next hour is to get within a group. It becomes clear that is not going to be easy, then a newcomer is ‘escorted’ into the room.
Titan is still feeling the effects of whatever it was they gave him. When he enters the room he scopes out the others. There are only a few gladiators mixed in among what appears to be mainly the ‘lowest of the low’ prisoners. Then there is a female human, or Morganian, that is the size of a child in his species. She is staring at him and starts moving toward him.
Blaze approaches the blue/green male and gives him her best proposal to work as a team. It is a win/win for him, so he agrees. She can either pull her own weight, provide a distraction to his opponents, or die trying. Then The Game begins. Titan stops Blaze from trying to get out first so the others can battle it out. This also gives them the opportunity to find and secure a weapon. Blaze doesn’t know how Titan is going to do that, but then he rips some piping from the old bleachers. Then they are ready to breach the doorway where they know others are waiting to kill them …
There are powerful forces behind the scenes that also want to shut them up … can they find a way to survive, together?
⛔️ Story contains references to, or scenes detailing, subject matter that may be a trigger or offensive to some, including, but not limited to: adult language; derogatory terms; mental health challenges with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, etc.; steamy adult intimate scenes with dominance, submission, etc.; violence throughout typical of the alien abduction genre such as kidnapping / abduction, murder / death, torture, assault, rage , fighting, human (species) trafficking, enslavement, pain/kill collar, mental, physical and sexual abuse of adults and children, coercion, etc.
March 4, 2023
„Bis auf Einen“ von Alana Khan ist eine Alien Gladiator Romanze und der Auftakt ihrer Galaxy Games Serie.
Der außerirdische Gladiator Titan und die entführte Menschenfrau Blaze werden beide unfreiwillig zu Teilnehmern des tödlichen Spiels „The Game“. Dabei kämpfen einhundert Mitspieler um das reine Überleben, bis am Ende nur noch Einer übrigbleibt. Blaze und Titan verbünden sich mehr oder weniger zufällig, um ihre Chancen zu Beginn etwas zu steigern. Überraschenderweise ist das ungleiche Duo ein schlagkräftiges Team, bei dem es auch bald in romantischer Hinsicht knistert. Doch am Schluss des grausamen Spiels darf es nur einen Sieger geben und so scheint ein gemeinsames Glück von vornherein ausgeschlossen.
Die Autorin wirft die Leser direkt in die Handlung, wobei man zumindest bei Titan erfährt, warum er in der tödlichen Reality-Show gelandet ist. Blaze bleibt zu Anfang noch ziemlich undurchschaubar, was das Ganze aber spannender macht.
Der Schreibstil von Alana Khan liest sich leicht und flüssig und die beiden Hauptfiguren erzählen abwechselnd aus ihren jeweiligen Perspektiven. Das Setting auf dem fremden Planenten ist für mich persönlich ganz gut und detailliert beschrieben, so dass man sich alles bildhaft vorstellen kann.
Titan ist als Teenager entführt und seitdem von seinen Besitzern als Sklave und Gladiator in der Arena gehalten worden. Äußerlich hat er sich fast schon stoisch mit seiner Rolle abgefunden, aber im Laufe der Zeit wird der kleine Funken Hoffnung in ihm immer stärker. Zu seiner Vergangenheit hätte ich aber gern noch ein wenig mehr erfahren.
Blaze wird als kleine Menschenfrau oft unterschätzt, aber hinter ihrer unschuldigen Fassade steckt viel mehr. Die Entwicklung ihrer Gefühle für Blaze von der reinen Zweckgemeinschaft zu etwas tieferem ist für mich nachvollziehbar beschrieben, obwohl am Anfang die körperliche Anziehung im Fokus steht.
Die Story ist knisternd und spannend aufgebaut, wobei man auch die Triggerwarnungen beachten sollte. Ich würde auf jeden Fall auch die Fortsetzung lesen, denn die Grundidee hat absolut Potenzial.
Mein Fazit:
Ich gebe gern eine Leseempfehlung!
Der außerirdische Gladiator Titan und die entführte Menschenfrau Blaze werden beide unfreiwillig zu Teilnehmern des tödlichen Spiels „The Game“. Dabei kämpfen einhundert Mitspieler um das reine Überleben, bis am Ende nur noch Einer übrigbleibt. Blaze und Titan verbünden sich mehr oder weniger zufällig, um ihre Chancen zu Beginn etwas zu steigern. Überraschenderweise ist das ungleiche Duo ein schlagkräftiges Team, bei dem es auch bald in romantischer Hinsicht knistert. Doch am Schluss des grausamen Spiels darf es nur einen Sieger geben und so scheint ein gemeinsames Glück von vornherein ausgeschlossen.
Die Autorin wirft die Leser direkt in die Handlung, wobei man zumindest bei Titan erfährt, warum er in der tödlichen Reality-Show gelandet ist. Blaze bleibt zu Anfang noch ziemlich undurchschaubar, was das Ganze aber spannender macht.
Der Schreibstil von Alana Khan liest sich leicht und flüssig und die beiden Hauptfiguren erzählen abwechselnd aus ihren jeweiligen Perspektiven. Das Setting auf dem fremden Planenten ist für mich persönlich ganz gut und detailliert beschrieben, so dass man sich alles bildhaft vorstellen kann.
Titan ist als Teenager entführt und seitdem von seinen Besitzern als Sklave und Gladiator in der Arena gehalten worden. Äußerlich hat er sich fast schon stoisch mit seiner Rolle abgefunden, aber im Laufe der Zeit wird der kleine Funken Hoffnung in ihm immer stärker. Zu seiner Vergangenheit hätte ich aber gern noch ein wenig mehr erfahren.
Blaze wird als kleine Menschenfrau oft unterschätzt, aber hinter ihrer unschuldigen Fassade steckt viel mehr. Die Entwicklung ihrer Gefühle für Blaze von der reinen Zweckgemeinschaft zu etwas tieferem ist für mich nachvollziehbar beschrieben, obwohl am Anfang die körperliche Anziehung im Fokus steht.
Die Story ist knisternd und spannend aufgebaut, wobei man auch die Triggerwarnungen beachten sollte. Ich würde auf jeden Fall auch die Fortsetzung lesen, denn die Grundidee hat absolut Potenzial.
Mein Fazit:
Ich gebe gern eine Leseempfehlung!
March 12, 2022
Trigger warning! Attempted rape and violence.
This new series is going to blow you away!
Owned and treated like nothing, they become everything to each other.
Owned by one master after another for twelve years, Titan has been used for fighting in the gladiator ring and brawn and sex outside of it. None of it by his own choosing.
From his viewpoint "living" sounds too dreamlike, he'll take just being able to breathe.
For doing something he was ordered to do, he's beaten and thrown into The Game. A vicious free-for-all, anything goes battle where the only winner is the last one left alive.
Blaze is a tough, quick thinking military woman. Being brought up in the Foster Care system taught her how to survive, the Army taught her how to thrive. She's abducted for her "skill set" by the alien planet's military. When she disobeys an order, she's also thrown into The Game.
As they team up to fight their way to the end, the chips are stacked against them. The ones that threw them in will do whatever it takes to make sure both of them die. As passions rise between them, they decide to " use what you have to get what they need". The toes! OH YES!
The first page grabs you, then it turns into an intense well of emotion coming from the main character. Then, every chapter just makes you want to keep going. Both characters are likable and I couldn't help cheering every time they got the upper hand. (even though it always came at a price)
It's a graphic, action-packed and steamy run for the finish line that all comes, Down. To. One!
Yes I recommend this one!
This new series is going to blow you away!
Owned and treated like nothing, they become everything to each other.
Owned by one master after another for twelve years, Titan has been used for fighting in the gladiator ring and brawn and sex outside of it. None of it by his own choosing.
From his viewpoint "living" sounds too dreamlike, he'll take just being able to breathe.
For doing something he was ordered to do, he's beaten and thrown into The Game. A vicious free-for-all, anything goes battle where the only winner is the last one left alive.
Blaze is a tough, quick thinking military woman. Being brought up in the Foster Care system taught her how to survive, the Army taught her how to thrive. She's abducted for her "skill set" by the alien planet's military. When she disobeys an order, she's also thrown into The Game.
As they team up to fight their way to the end, the chips are stacked against them. The ones that threw them in will do whatever it takes to make sure both of them die. As passions rise between them, they decide to " use what you have to get what they need". The toes! OH YES!
The first page grabs you, then it turns into an intense well of emotion coming from the main character. Then, every chapter just makes you want to keep going. Both characters are likable and I couldn't help cheering every time they got the upper hand. (even though it always came at a price)
It's a graphic, action-packed and steamy run for the finish line that all comes, Down. To. One!
Yes I recommend this one!
March 30, 2022
So so so fabulous!🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖💖
Omg😍😍😍😍 this was so freaking fabulous! D everything from the world building and the chemistry of the lead characters! I have to say I've read a couple of the "game" type series and although they were good this one was superb. Xzavic is a gladiator who we stolen from his home, made a slave and forced to fight as a gladiator. And for forbid he deny his owners a trying including his own body. As a oh punishment he's forced in the Game to fight for his licensed did he hope to believe he 'd find his one true love. Blaze stolen from Earth 3 years ago and made a slave to the federation. She was a tough foster kid that was way to smart for her own good.She ended up in the military as a highly trained sniper. When her owners to d out about her special skill set then send her on a mission that she just doesn't believe in. This she also ends up I. the " Game". They team up out of necessity but stay together out of love. This is one hell of a fantastic roller coaster ride. Non stop action, high passion and heat as well as soul deep love all the best experiences filled I to one story. Infant wait to read the next story can't come out fast enough. I'm greedy more! More! More!💖💖💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖
Omg😍😍😍😍 this was so freaking fabulous! D everything from the world building and the chemistry of the lead characters! I have to say I've read a couple of the "game" type series and although they were good this one was superb. Xzavic is a gladiator who we stolen from his home, made a slave and forced to fight as a gladiator. And for forbid he deny his owners a trying including his own body. As a oh punishment he's forced in the Game to fight for his licensed did he hope to believe he 'd find his one true love. Blaze stolen from Earth 3 years ago and made a slave to the federation. She was a tough foster kid that was way to smart for her own good.She ended up in the military as a highly trained sniper. When her owners to d out about her special skill set then send her on a mission that she just doesn't believe in. This she also ends up I. the " Game". They team up out of necessity but stay together out of love. This is one hell of a fantastic roller coaster ride. Non stop action, high passion and heat as well as soul deep love all the best experiences filled I to one story. Infant wait to read the next story can't come out fast enough. I'm greedy more! More! More!💖💖💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥💖
January 21, 2023
A "game" where if you lose you die. Hero (a blue alien) and heroine team up as nobody else wants to join them. 100 people enter the game, one leaves "Down to One".
Hero and heroine were both forcibly entered into the game against their will. They are slaves.
I liked how strong and resourceful and "coming up with ideas" the heroine was. She was smart and savvy.
The hero protected her very well and they both fell in love. But they were doomed because only one person can win the game.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
Eventually the rebels manage to hack the game and start showing how the creators of the game are cheating and not giving the hero and heroine access to the credits the crowd is paying to give them to buy weapons and food in the game.
With the help of the rebels, they manage to convince the creators of the game to announce both the hero and heroine as winners. But the network plans to kill them both as soon as they can.
A king shows up in his car to offer them asylum in his kingdom where slavery is forbidden. They get married and live happily ever after.
I took off 1 star because the hero was kidnapped as a teenager and he never contacted his family, even after he was free. I thought it was a big plot hole.
Hero and heroine were both forcibly entered into the game against their will. They are slaves.
I liked how strong and resourceful and "coming up with ideas" the heroine was. She was smart and savvy.
The hero protected her very well and they both fell in love. But they were doomed because only one person can win the game.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
Eventually the rebels manage to hack the game and start showing how the creators of the game are cheating and not giving the hero and heroine access to the credits the crowd is paying to give them to buy weapons and food in the game.
With the help of the rebels, they manage to convince the creators of the game to announce both the hero and heroine as winners. But the network plans to kill them both as soon as they can.
A king shows up in his car to offer them asylum in his kingdom where slavery is forbidden. They get married and live happily ever after.
I took off 1 star because the hero was kidnapped as a teenager and he never contacted his family, even after he was free. I thought it was a big plot hole.
March 24, 2022
Blaze was abducted from earth, she's a 5'2" sharpshooter. Titan is a 7' blue gladiator. Down To One is the name of The Game their owners threw them into for revenge or to shut them up. The game makes more money for the Game organizers and the rich. The story reminds me of The Hunger Games. Blaze and Titan agree to run together, tho a very unlikely pair, against the other 98 people thrown into the game. They start our barely getting along but as they learn to work together, find each others strengths, they find respect and more. This is a dark story full of well developed characters and great world building with a HEA, thank goodness. There is a a despicable greedy games organization , strategy, evil villains, realistic life and death situations, the resistance, plot twists, evil scheming, action, slavery, danger and unexpected but will developed steam scenes. Great character development throughout the story as well as descriptions of locations that will make you feel like you are right in the midst of their trials. And then it's Down To One? You will need to read this story.
June 7, 2023
Wann kann Liebe gefährlich werden?
heiße Enemies-to-Lovers Geschichte ala Hungergames
Blaze wurde vor Jahren von der Erde von Aliens entführt und muss jetzt in einem "Spiel" um ihr Leben kämpfen (dabei müssen 100 Sklaven zu einer Flagge gelangen, gewonnen hat wer als letzter am Leben ist). Dabei trifft sie auf Titan, ein Alien der bisher als Gladiator gekämpft hat, nun aber von seinem Besitzer in The Game, zur Bestrafung, gesteckt wurde. Wie der Zufall es will verbünden sich die Zwei - doch wie lange kann das gut gehen? Vor allem wenn Sex und Gefühle ins Spiel kommen.
Die Handlung ist ganz gut entwickelt und wenn auch manches erwartungsgemäß abläuft, kommt es doch auch zu unerwarteten Entwicklungen. Zu Beginn brauchte ich etwas Zeit um mit den Schreibstil anzufreunden, aber es wird dann so spannend und gut zu lesen, dass man das Buch nicht mehr so leicht aus den Händen legen kann.
Eine Romanze die gleichzeitig auch Handlung und Entwicklung der Charaktere bietet. Leseempfehlung für Fans von den Hungerspielen und sich eine erwachsenere Version wünschen (und Aliens, den Weltraum spannend finden).
heiße Enemies-to-Lovers Geschichte ala Hungergames
Blaze wurde vor Jahren von der Erde von Aliens entführt und muss jetzt in einem "Spiel" um ihr Leben kämpfen (dabei müssen 100 Sklaven zu einer Flagge gelangen, gewonnen hat wer als letzter am Leben ist). Dabei trifft sie auf Titan, ein Alien der bisher als Gladiator gekämpft hat, nun aber von seinem Besitzer in The Game, zur Bestrafung, gesteckt wurde. Wie der Zufall es will verbünden sich die Zwei - doch wie lange kann das gut gehen? Vor allem wenn Sex und Gefühle ins Spiel kommen.
Die Handlung ist ganz gut entwickelt und wenn auch manches erwartungsgemäß abläuft, kommt es doch auch zu unerwarteten Entwicklungen. Zu Beginn brauchte ich etwas Zeit um mit den Schreibstil anzufreunden, aber es wird dann so spannend und gut zu lesen, dass man das Buch nicht mehr so leicht aus den Händen legen kann.
Eine Romanze die gleichzeitig auch Handlung und Entwicklung der Charaktere bietet. Leseempfehlung für Fans von den Hungerspielen und sich eine erwachsenere Version wünschen (und Aliens, den Weltraum spannend finden).
April 9, 2022
I am absolutely amazed by how much I enjoyed this book!
I rarely leave reviews because I read so much that it's difficult to entertain or impress me. This book? FANTASTIC! I didn't foresee the twists and turns ahead, the characters personalities and interactions were wonderful, and I genuinely ENJOYED reading about Blaze and Titan. Hell, I think I may have fallen in love with them lol The added cherry on top was my complete enjoyment of the writing style itself.
Ms. Khan is a wonderful storyteller whose work is solid enough for me not to feel the need to hit up Google and double-check what I just read. I was so into the story that the real world fell away and I found myself a spectator of The Game, on the edge of my seat rooting for my favorite fighters to beat the odds.
Characters, dialogue, interactions A+
Authors writing style and voice A+
Emotional investment in character-driven saga A+
Ending A+
I already preordered book #2 and am now awaiting April 24th. It can't come quick enough!
I rarely leave reviews because I read so much that it's difficult to entertain or impress me. This book? FANTASTIC! I didn't foresee the twists and turns ahead, the characters personalities and interactions were wonderful, and I genuinely ENJOYED reading about Blaze and Titan. Hell, I think I may have fallen in love with them lol The added cherry on top was my complete enjoyment of the writing style itself.
Ms. Khan is a wonderful storyteller whose work is solid enough for me not to feel the need to hit up Google and double-check what I just read. I was so into the story that the real world fell away and I found myself a spectator of The Game, on the edge of my seat rooting for my favorite fighters to beat the odds.
Characters, dialogue, interactions A+
Authors writing style and voice A+
Emotional investment in character-driven saga A+
Ending A+
I already preordered book #2 and am now awaiting April 24th. It can't come quick enough!
May 18, 2022
Good
Book one in the series, featuring Blaze (Slayer) and Xzavic (Titan).
Blaze was a sniper in the human military three years ago, when she was abducted by aliens. Now she has been forced to participate in “The Game: Down to One”, where the odds are stacked against her.
A slave since the age of fifteen, and a gladiator, Titan is punished for being forced to do as his owner asked. Beaten and drugged, he was forced into The Game, where he teamed up with the tiny human woman.
Even though they will end up as rivals, Blaze and Titan need to work together, even when the network broadcasting the game is working against them.
This is a riveting sci-fi romance, which pits a street-savvy, tiny, human female soldier and a seasoned, gigantic, alien male together. Rather than spoil the story though, because it is kind of fun when the surprises start rolling, just know it is a lot deeper than sex, or a game show. Deeper themes of slavery and corruption play large roles in the story, and make for an exciting and action filled read.
Recommended for sci-fi romance fans.
Book one in the series, featuring Blaze (Slayer) and Xzavic (Titan).
Blaze was a sniper in the human military three years ago, when she was abducted by aliens. Now she has been forced to participate in “The Game: Down to One”, where the odds are stacked against her.
A slave since the age of fifteen, and a gladiator, Titan is punished for being forced to do as his owner asked. Beaten and drugged, he was forced into The Game, where he teamed up with the tiny human woman.
Even though they will end up as rivals, Blaze and Titan need to work together, even when the network broadcasting the game is working against them.
This is a riveting sci-fi romance, which pits a street-savvy, tiny, human female soldier and a seasoned, gigantic, alien male together. Rather than spoil the story though, because it is kind of fun when the surprises start rolling, just know it is a lot deeper than sex, or a game show. Deeper themes of slavery and corruption play large roles in the story, and make for an exciting and action filled read.
Recommended for sci-fi romance fans.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews