Captain of the Guard

Galactic Kings #3

by Anna Hackett

An alien warrior and a fierce shapeshifter who drive each other crazy must work together to save an entire planet from a terrifying evil.

First Claw Annora Rahl is tough, fierce, and loyal. She stands at her emperor’s side to protect the wolf shapeshifters of the planet Damar, and she isn’t afraid to use her claws. Stopping an evil king from a neighboring planet, who’s intent on enslaving all the planets in their system, is her top priority. She won’t fail her family, her people, or her emperor. Even if it means joining forces with an infuriating rival warrior…one who she isn’t sure if she wants to kill or kiss.

Captain Thadd Naveri is strong, unyielding, and dedicated. As captain of the guard for the overlord of the planet Zhalto, he lets nothing threaten his king or his people. He’s still recovering from his capture and torture by the enemy, but he readily accepts a top-secret mission into enemy territory. He’s less than pleased to share that mission with Annora—the one woman in the galaxy who fills him with scalding hot anger…and burning desire.

To save their allies on the planet Taln, Thadd and Annora must sneak into the enemy’s most feared science labs. As they fight side by side, they are forced to face their overwhelming attraction. But as the enemy closes in, it is a race against time to save not only Taln but themselves.

Genres: Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Science Fiction, Aliens, Science Fiction Romance, Shapeshifters, Audiobook

255 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 17, 2022

About the author

I’m a USA Today bestselling romance author who’s passionate about fast-paced, emotion-filled romantic suspense and science-fiction romance. I love writing about people overcoming unbeatable odds and achieving seemingly impossible goals. I like to believe it’s possible for all of us to do the same.

I love hearing from readers and you can find me on Facebook, Instagram and my website: www.annahackett.com

Reviews

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.

Captain of the Guard is the most recent release in the Galactic Kings and I absolutely had a blast with this one, maybe not quite as much as the previous two books, but it was still such a solid read from this author. I will say that if you are a fan of sci-fi romance, then this series is a MUST-read! I haven’t read much of her other sci-fi romance though so I can’t say how this compares to her other sci-fi series, but it’s definitely some of the best sci-fi romance I have read in a while. I really loved how atmospheric these books are described, I really feel so caught up in the world-building but what is amazing about these books is that it isn’t overwhelming. It’s so well balanced within the story. I really have enjoyed seeing the way the author has crafted this series and how different each heroine is from the previous one. This story though has been teased for the first two books and I really enjoyed seeing this angsty love fest happen. This is where we have the “first claw” Annora who is tough and strong and simply badass. Then we have Captain Thadd who is working on protecting their people and standing by his Overlord. When he and Annora are put together on a mission, sparks fly between them. But when they have to work together to bring down an enemy, they discover something worth holding onto.

She was Emperor Brodin Damar Sarkany’s right-hand, his First Claw. She was known for being tough and deadly. But she wanted this one day. A child. A family. A mate.

I will say that this book was everything I was looking for in a diverting sci-fi romance. It definitely will keep you on the edge of your seat and it’s a story that will deliver all the angsty fun. These two are HILARIOUS together. I mean the hero is a broody alpha male who is so stubborn in his masculinity at times. Then we have our heroine who is kick-ass but his stubbornness drives her crazy. The plot is so engaging and just packed with so much action and intrigue. I never knew where the story was going to head and I really adored that. Anna Hackett is an author that definitely knows how to keep me on my toes and in this book I fell so hard for this romance. Once they get past their stubbornness and pride to hate each other, we see how much they fall for each other. I also adored their devotion and loyalty to their people and most especially in their relationship. And we get a teaser for the upcoming book and man this heroine is going to break my heart but I need it NOW!!

Annora narrowed her gaze. “What did you call me?” “Thistla. It’s a wild plant that grows on Zhalto. There’s some outside my window in Citadel. It’s covered in beautiful, fragrant, white blooms, and thorns. Lots of thorns. I think the name suits you.” He strode up the ramp into the Talnian ship. She swallowed a growl. You can’t claw up your Zhalton ally.

Overall I found this story to be a thrilling, kick-ass romance that delivers the satisfying emotion, and edgy action and is out of this world type of a romance!

[Natalie ~ The Biblioholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite book of the series so far!

Thadd was this fierce warrior, a protector of all, who was a bit broken after being taken and experimented on. There's just something so special about a broken hero.

Annora was equally as fierce as Thadd, just as protective, and a force of nature. I loved how strong and loyal she was.

It was like reading an enemies-to-lovers romance, but without the true hate. It was obvious from previous books that something was sparking between these two and I was here for when it imploded. They were hot!!

There is still so much of the underlying plot to be explored. Zavir, the father of the kings, is out there, plotting ways to bring them to their knees. Luckily, I've already got Conqueror downloaded so I can discover what will happen next.

Find more here: Captain of the Guard

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seductive aliens take center stage with their braun, beauty and mystery.

Earth women testing experimental alien designs to further space travel find themselves flung across the galaxy and no way of getting home. When they arrive in these new worlds, they quickly find that survival is a must from danger from a cruel man who wants to use his sons and their worlds as toys for his own amusement.

Fortunately, these strong women meet skilled allies who come to their rescue. These allies help them and introduce them to exciting experiences they never imagined.

The story is filled with action, from intense battles to steamy moments, as the women discover their inner strength and navigate life in space.

[Marta Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is my favourite so far in this series. The Captain and the First Claw certainly have chemistry that lights up the page and this almost enemies to lovers trope worked very well. Lots of action to keep the reader literally on the edge of their seat with very believable bad guys to fend off. I wasn't particularly sure about the three brothers father previously but can happily say his actions in this book certainly felt much more believable. What can I say ? I loved the characters, the cover art is absolutely gorgeous and this dose of sci fi mixed with a touch of paranormal really hit the spot. If you enjoy steamy romance that sweeps you away amidst battles and even a dash of humour than this book, indeed this series is definitely worth checking out.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

Another great story from Anna Hackett. I am really enjoying this new series of hers. Plenty of action and adventure in every book.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annora and Thadd have sort of snarled and glared their way through the previous meetings they've had and it was kind of spectacular. Teaming up on this mission isn't necessarily an issue because they're both going to do what they need to do to protect both their planets and Taln, BUT... it does cause a little tension. At least at first. Once they get over the snarly knee-jerk reactions they have going on, it's a whole different type of tension, if you know what I mean.

But before we get to the sexy times, these two have to face a little danger. Thadd also has some unresolved issues regarding his time spent as a captive that makes things a little tense. Some of those issues are PTSD-related and some are dealing the physical consequences of being experimented on by extremely bad (and possibly slightly unhinged) scientists.

Yup, Thadd's abilities have changed a bit. Fortunately for him, Annora isn't one to let things lie. Meaning, she pokes and prods at Thadd until he starts to talk about it.

As for the mission, stopping potential wholesale genocide of an entire planet is top priority. As you might imagine. Infiltrating a top secret lab, sabotaging experiments, and saving those they can are all part and parcel with what Thadd and Annora do. *thumbs up*

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal

[Севдалина · Rating 4 out of 5]

Анора Рал (Демари) и Тад Навери (Жалтон)

Анора е Първи нокът на Демари, дясната ръка на императора на планетата Демар. Тад е Капитан на стражата, дясната ръка на Върховен лорд на планетата Жалто. Двамата силни и безстрашни, и не искат да признаят, че са силно привлечени един към друг, затова се заяждат постоянно.

Когато Завир, кове нов план, този оът за масовото изтребление на населението на планетата Талн, решен да накара сина му Гейлан да се присъедини към него, Анора и Тад са доброволците, които да заминат на унищожената от радиация планета и да спрат учените на Заркан да добият кристали с които да унищожат хората на планетата Талн.

Докато опасностите следват една след друга, Анора и Тад ще могат да разчитат само един на друг, и привличането между тях ще прерасне в изгаряща любов. Но дали тя ще оцелее щом се окажат в жестоките лапи на безмилостен и коварен враг?

Книгата е по-къса от останалите. Имаме супер яките и силни воини, решени да жертват всичко, за да спасят народа на Грейлан. Екшъна беше на ниво, но отново нищо чак до там страшно като в първата книга, сякаш Анна е успокоиша малко топката. Анора и Тад ги харесвам от предишните книги и макар тук малко да се джафкаха в началото, в крайна сметка имаха чудесна химия и се допълваха перфектно. Тук се запознахме и с Иви, която ще е главната героиня в следващата книга. Прекарала 2 години в ужасните лаборатории на злите Заркан, тя има нови сили, кокто не може да контролира и гняв, който я поглъща прекалено лесно. Не сме имали много поглед на Грейлан, затова ще ми е интересно какъв герой е той и как ще се справи с Иви.

[Kristiej · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in this series and like the previous books I quite enjoyed it. The series takes place in a galaxy far, far away and the hero of this book is Thadd, second in command of one of the kings from a previous book and Annora, the heroine and second in command of another king. There is a third king and his story is coming out next. They are also brothers and each leader of a different planet. Their father is evil and determined to rule all three worlds.

In this book, Thaddeus and Annora are tasked to work together to eliminate the latest threat. They are both strong characters each used to being in charge. So working together and having to compromise is difficult for both. If that isn't tough enough, there is a blazing hot chemistry between them.

I've enjoyed a number of books by Anna Hackett and this is another book to add to that. It's a thrilling adventure and I plan to keep on reading her books.

[Julie Sherman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great

A great third book by Miss Anna Hackett. Miss Hackett can weave a great story and make you forget this from is not real. Looking forward to more.
Julie of A. R. C. Anonymous.

[♡︎ Kesa Subban ♡︎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Captain Stars
RTC

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!! Annora and Thadd's story was great. I loved the non stop action and they had great chemistry.

Another excellent story from Ms. Hackett, can't wait to read Graylan's story.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really like the whole world set up, but this is my least favourite relationship story of the series so far. An almost emotionally eventless enemies to lovers story. They just assume their kings will allow them to live together and give up their jobs as Captain of the Guard and First Claw. In most contemporary romance stories, this would be the primary worry for both, but there's not even a hint of either worrying that they will need to sacrifice their home, job and friends for the relationship with the other. Oh, they'll just have secondary leaders to take over when they aren't around for half a year. Either there are going to be some amazing new warrior characters or this is how the planets will be weaker.

The action is exciting as usual but some unnecessary violence and a lot of opponents don't seem to be attacking when they kill them.

I am excited to see what happens in the next story! The characters sound like they have further to go to come together.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This was so good! This is best read in series order, but still enjoyable as a stand-alone. Annora and Thadd are so entertaining as they learn to work together and get to know each other better. The action races along and keeps you reading to find out what happens next. There are lots of very interesting secondary characters that really enhance the story. I can’t wait for the next story in the series!

[Marlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally published at Reading Reality

We met First Claw Annora Rahl and Captain Thadd Naveri in earlier books in the Galactic Kings series. Annora is the leader of Emperor Brodin Damar Sarkany’s elite shapeshifting warriors, while Thadd is the captain of Overlord Rhain Zhalto Sarkany’s guard (hence the title). As their respective rulers have begun working more closely together to throw their sperm donor’s evil minions off of their respective planets in the first two books in this series, Overlord and Emperor, Annora and Thadd keep getting thrown together.

When they do, explosions happen. The First Claw and the Captain get along about like kerosene and matches. It’s always a combustible combination, but until the end of Emperor all of that explosive energy manifested as explosive temper. They could manage to work together to accomplish assigned goals – but it wasn’t easy for either of them. Or for anyone around who had to listen to them bicker.

But all that energy had to go someplace. At the very end of Emperor it went into a kiss that rocked both of their worlds – even if neither of them was willing to admit it – either at the time or as this entry in the series opened.

It does mean, however, that neither of them is all that enthused to be assigned to take a small ship and infiltrate the top-secret research base where the minions working for Rhain, Brodin and Graylan’s sperm donor carry out their genocidal research experiments.

Dear old dad, or rather, his chief scientist Naberius (the scientists in this series make the Nazis look like fluffy bunnies in comparison) is making biological weapons on that station that are genetically engineering to decimate the population of Taln, the planet where Graylan rules.

It’s up to Thadd and Annora to destroy the research along with any samples that have been made – and even the base if they can manage it. If they can manage to eliminate the scientist as well, so much the better.

But first, they have to get past all of his tricks and traps that are genetically engineered specifically for their people’s individual biology – along with Thadd’s simmering PTSD after his previous encounter with Naberius. An encounter where he was tortured and implanted with alien devices, and where his own personal powers were irrevocably changed.

In spite of the pressure they are under – and all the battles yet to come, Thadd and Annora finally let themselves acknowledge what’s been simmering between them all along. Whether their new-found bond makes them stronger or merely gives them each a hostage to fortune is something that can only be tested in the heat of battle.

And they are not, either of them, found wanting.

Escape Rating A-: I’m not sure what I was expecting with Captain of the Guard beyond the rollicking good reading time that I always get when I pick up one of Anna’s books. And I most definitely got that!

What I mean is that normally, my favorite book in any series is the one that features the leader of the gang, or band, or company, or whatever. But in this series, the Galactic Kings, the heroes have all been those kings. In other words, they’re all leaders.

This book, Captain of the Guard, is the one that’s different. Both Thadd and Annora ARE leaders, but they’re not the ‘alpha’ of this series. I think what made this book a bit different from the others so far is what made this one special.

Also because unlike the previous books in the series – and from the way this book ended, the next book in the series – is that they keep finding women from Earth all the way over on the other side of the galaxy near Carthago, the setting for the Galactic Gladiators series(es). So part of what made Captain of the Guard so much fun was that Annora and Thadd are not traumatized and forced ‘immigrants’ to this side of the galaxy. Not that both of them haven’t had their share of trauma.

But their positions give them perspective into each of their societies in a way that still involves them with the movers and shakers but doesn’t put them at the top of their respective pyramids. Not that they’re not high up, but they both had normal childhoods for their worlds and were not raised in the rarified – and in the kings’ cases deadly – atmosphere of any palace.

It was also excellent that they are peers and equals. That a woman is the leader of one planet’s elite warriors, that she holds exactly the same position as a man and garners exactly the same amount of respect.

Which also meant that in order for them to truly get an HEA they had to find a solution that let both of them keep their high ranking jobs. I always love a romance of equals, and this is certainly that.

All of the above made Captain of the Guard an excellent entry in this long-running series of series. And, as is the author’s style, the ending of this book set up the beginning of the next book in the series, Conqueror, which looks like it will be Graylan’s story. It’s just too bad I’ll have to wait until November to see what happens next!

[Girl Reading Books Too · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actual rating: 4.5 stars.

Full review to follow.

[Sabine Honig · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third instalment of the Galactic Kings series focuses on the Captain of the Guard from book one, Thadd Naveri and the First Claw from book two, Annora Rahl.

These two, who know each other, appear to be like oil and water but there is an attraction, a fire between them. Annora is a shapeshifter who is skilled, well trained and she has to team up with Thadd Naveri who is also strong and determined, but he is still recovering from having been captured and tortured in book one by the enemy. He is suffering from PTSD and also from something that is affecting his powers but of course he’s too much of a man to ask for help or to admit that he needs help. Annora sees him, the man as well as his strengths and weaknesses and he sees her strength and determination but also her desires. Can these two work together, joining forces to triumph over the evil that wants to destroy their respective leaders and their peoples?

In my opinion this book had more depth and development to it, and I found it interesting to read and I was much more invested in how these two would get together and what would happen than in the previous two books in this series.

I loved the Pup and the fact that it was Thadd who had the connection to the animal, not Annora, as it’s usually the female who has the connection with any animals. The adventure on the planet and then the trip to the space station with all of its horrors was a perfect segue into finding the character who would no doubt feature in book four as a match for Graylan, the third brother. I was wondering how this would happen and the connection back to the Galactic Gladiators series and the event that started the whole thing off is that connection, so if you haven’t read that series, go and read it.

Slowly but surely the brothers are retaliating against their father who does pop up again in this story but only briefly and I cannot wait to see if there is a big confrontation because up until now there have only been small skirmishes which were used as vehicles for the characters to get to know each other.

I enjoyed this story and am hoping that book four is in the same vein, with just as much action, romance and adventure.

[Spinneretta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good

First Claw of the Damari, Annora, is teamed up with Captain of the Zhalton Guard Thadd in this book.
When an evil warlord targets an entire planet for destruction using their kryptonite, representatives from the other planets in the system team up together to try and prevent it.
Both Annora and Thadd have good reasons for hating the enemy, but can they overcome their antipathy towards each other in order to end the threat before it is realized?

This is the first book in the series, in which the humans only have a small starring role. Annora is a shape shifter, while Thadd is an energy wielder, and both come from planets within the same system.
As first claw, Annora is a strong, powerful, woman, who doesn’t like it when Thadd deploys his protective instinct. Not that he disrespects her, he is that way towards everyone. He is also battling a few mental scars that are causing him a bit of trouble. Both issues cause friction, which leads to all sorts of enjoyable encounters between the two.

This is the third book in the series, which is also loosely linked to the Galactic Gladiators series by the author. The books in the Galactic Kings series need to be read in order to make the most sense, and also because you’ll get spoilers otherwise. It’s no hardship though- they’re all excellent reads! You don’t need to have read all of the Galactic Gladiator series, BUT some events are slightly referenced in this book. Again, not a hardship, the entire series (including each sub-series) is well worth the read.

Ultimately, this is another fantastic addition to the series, with another awesome cover (seriously, the cover art on these books is well worth mentioning).
The fast paced, action filled storyline makes it easy for the reader to not want to put the book down, while the romance allows the characters to have a little down time!
It did make me smile to see the hero being the one to tame a pet this time (so often it’s the human woman), which was another fun diversion.
A thoroughly enjoyable book, with a lovable cast of characters, and an intriguing pairing for the future hinted at within.

Recommended for sci-fi romance fans and Hacketteers!

[Linda Whitacre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 of the Galactic Kings series. Evil warmongering King Zavior Sarkany of Sarkan is trying to force his three sons to join him in his evil reign. So far there are no takers. They all hate him. The sons continue their fight against Zavior with Overlord Rhain Sarkany of Zhalto and his Captain of the Guard, Thadd Naveri working with Emperor Brodin Damar Sarkany of Damar and his first Claw Annora Rahl.
Thadd is a pushy no-nonsense alpha all the way and Annora is not going to be second to anyone, especially Naveri. These two rub each other the wrong way and it’s not going to be pretty when the standoff happens.
Since his sons have rebuffed his evil ways, King Zavior employs equally evil warlords to infiltrate and reek-havoc on their planets. Warlord Kraskin is a scientist who physically butchers and manipulates beings and he greatly enjoys making it very painful. In fact, one of his recent torture victims was Thadd and it has altered him mentally. Now Thadd must face Kraskin again… and this time Kraskin must die.
On their missions wolf shapeshifter Annora and Thadd who can manipulate energy are surprised to find that they strategize and fight very well together, complementing each other’s skills and strengths…and… After being stranded together, they find each other to be exciting and … more. Friendship turns into so much more for these two mighty warriors.
This is an action-packed thriller with a tasty side of finding unlikely love. The story is filled with great characters including a little pup. I received a free advanced copy of this story. My review is my own opinion. Linda

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Claw Annora Rahl and Captain Thadd Naveri did not get along. Bad first impressions, different personalities, rivalries, everything was there, but when they had to work together, for the safety and well-being of others, they began to look at each other with different eyes. Thadd felt different after his previous experience with the enemy and found himself struggling with terrible memories that terrified him. Annora discovered a hidden side of the Naveri that attracted her and made her feel like she had found what was missing in her life. Together they were facing an enemy that threatened not only them but all the inhabitants of Tahl. The adventure didn't make me wait from the beginning and the exciting descriptions and narrations encouraged me to read avidly to find out how they were going to get out of the predicament they found themselves in. Thinking about what Thadd had suffered made me sad and scared for him. I love how these stories grab me, make me feel with the protagonists and create in me a high level of suspense. I was surprised and at the same time I liked Evie’s character, who I did not expect at all, and even less so with everything she brought. Full of action, adventure, suspense, strong emotions, chilling monsters, violence, a villain who they had to struck him with everything, a jealous pet, some funny scenes, romance, passion, even a traitor appeared and a surprise. I voluntarily reviewed this exciting, entertaining and intriguing story that I liked very much.

[Sherill · Rating 5 out of 5]

DANGER-SUSPENSE-ACTION AND SPICY PASSIONATE ROMANCE

“Captain of the Guard” is a thunderstorm of emotions loaded with suspense, lots of action and life-threatening moments. Spicy passionate romance is spellbinding, character interaction is spot on, and the happy forever made me smile.

First Claw Annora Rahl wolf shapeshifter protects her emperor and everyone on planet Demar. She’s a strong willed, fierce fighter in human and wolf form. Captain Thadd Naveri is bodyguard and best friend to the Overlord of planet Zhalto. Annora dislikes the captain’s overbearing attitude and disapproves of his interference because she’s powerful enough to defend herself. They have a habit of bickering every time they come in contact. A wicked king on another planet is planning to destroy their Allies’ planet, Taln. They’re sent on a risky mission to end the king’s horrific plan. Thadd suffers nightmares from his capture by the enemy and hopes his fighting skills can keep Annora from harm. Fiery desires burn wild as they face the onslaught of danger. They encounter many horrid obstacles before attaining their happy forever.

Memorable page-turner, well-written storyline; was eager to learn what happens next. Action scenes are well described. Romance shines in this read. Thadd and Annora work great as a team to end the king’s threat; loved them together. I cheered when Thadd captured Annora’s heart, the woman of his dreams. The author does a great job mixing reality and fantasy. Relished this read; I voluntarily reviewed a prerelease copy.

[A. H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been reading Anna Hackett's books for a long time and practically feel all her characters are extended family. From the more realistic Billionaire Heists and the Norcross Security Series to the awesomely mystical Team 52 Series and Hell Squad. And finally her most recent sci-fi romance series Galactic Kings. Anna has something for everyone! Are they sometimes a little repetitive or similar, sure, but I find that that actually helps me transition from favorite book/series more easily (think story not over, just continuing). This latest book, Captain Of The Guard, Galactic Kings Book 3, continues the saga of the three half- brothers battling their evil father for control over their individual planets. The characters are second in commands for the leaders of two of the planets. Wolf shape shifter Annora from planet Damar and captain of the guard Thadd from Zhalto. They must work together to save their allies by destroying an enemy science lab that is manufacturing a weapon of total destruction for the ally planets. And of course face their budding attraction to each other all the while. Whew, piece of cake, right? There is sacrifice, humor, romance, cute new "pets", and of course life threatening danger. We see old friends, face new enemies, and even find another stray human. In other words, loads of fun. A great escapism read that keeps you interested but not submerged in any dark angst. I received a copy for my honest review.

[Nikki Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annora and Thadd are less enemies to lovers and more rivals They are each second-in-command and used to being n charge - so working with each other was always going to be a challenge but neither wanted to let their leader down.

Thadd and his energy sword (I kept seeing lightsabers - wrong Sci Fi adventures lol) and Annora who can shapeshift - on their own are immensely lethal but together they may just be unstoppable - if they don't kill each other first!

There have been a few misunderstandings/misconceptions between these two but when they finally call a truce to get the job done they realise they have more in common than not. They share selflessness when it comes to protecting others, a burning passion whenever they take time to find a partner and strong friendships with their leaders.

There is plenty of skullduggery afoot as Daddy Dearest, King of the Scum, is still causing problems with his maniacal scientists. The blood did boil when I realised what the crazy scientist was up to. I loved the addition of a "pet", they always add another layer to the story. Annnnnnnnd now I know where Gray's HEA has managed to get herself into danger - I was wondering how she was going to appear. Roll on book 4!

[Grey's Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked it

A fun action science fiction romance where a wolf-shifter and an energy-user walk the line of hate to love as they work together to prevent weapons of genocide being made. The heroine, 31-year-old First Claw Annora Rahl, is the right hand person to the Emperor of the planet of wolf-shifters. She is strong, smart, confident in her skills, graceful in a fight, and of course brave. The hero, Captain Thadd Naveri, is her counterpart to the Overlord of the planet of energy-users. He is tall, strong, doesn't show emotion, and is even more closed off since his time as a captive being tortured. Overall, I enjoyed it and would definitely read more of this series.





*****Spoiler Alert*****
This Book Includes
Violence. A lot of action fighting scenes against bad guys and scary animals with weapons (space guns) and blades or claws, references to torture while in captivity and small scene of torture in captivity, strange experiments and unnatural creatures, prison planet, murders of bad guys, spaceship chase / fight.
Sex. MF sex, short chase and capture, some hair pulling, some orders in bed.

[R · Rating 4 out of 5]

**MINOR SPOILERS**
This book is part of the Galactic Kings series. It can be read as a standalone as one part of the story comes to a conclusion, but there is an overarching storyline that covers the whole series. There is also a bonus epilogue available through the author’s website if you sign up for her newsletter.
Annora is First Claw to the emperor of her planet. Thadd is the captain of the guard on his planet. They both appeared in previous books and are attracted to each other.
In this book, they are sent on a mission together to strike a blow against a power hungry leader of the 5th planet in the system. The people of the different planets have been exposed to the Radiance. The people of Thadd’s planet can manipulate energy. Annora’s people can shapeshift.
I liked both Annora and Thadd and they had a rivals to lovers story. They do seem like a good match as they each understand and are supportive of each other.
You meet several characters from the rest of the books, but they play secondary roles.
The author has other books set in this universe.
I read the whole series and enjoyed it.

[Ashley (Red-Haired Ash Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Series: Galactic Kings #3
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good

Zhalto warrior Captain Thadd Naveri is forced to work with the fierce and strong First Claw Annora Rahl of Damar to stop the mining of a deadly mineral. The plan is to destroy the mine and prevent any genite from leaving the planet, but things quickly go wrong leading to an even more deadly mission.

I have liked both Thadd and Annora since they were introduced and instantly felt the sparks between them. All that aggressive rivalry was totally hiding their lust. Annora is a strong and fierce heroine. I loved how protective she was but still had a soft side that would come through occasionally. Thadd is a very protective alpha hero who is even more determined to bring down their enemies since his capture. He is struggling with PTSD but is still determined to do his job. I really liked how quickly Thadd admitted his feelings for Annora.

“He had no idea why this tough, very spiky woman made him both hotter and angrier than anyone ever had.”

Like I said, these two have a rivals-to-lovers relationship that was action packed. I was instantly sucked into their story and loved watching these strong warriors bend to love. This was also just a great show of teamwork between these two races. I enjoyed seeing the two different battle styles and abilities. It was just a wonderful blend of animal and energy abilities. Also, I really loved Pup and hope she pops up in future books.

This book also introduces us to the potential next couple. I am really excited to learn more about Graylan since he has been in this series the least so far. He definitely seems like he will be an interesting ruler. He definitely will have his hands full with his woman and I can’t wait to see him fall in love.

Overall, I really enjoyed this one. I am loving the overarching story in this series and can’t wait to see the brothers triumph over a dictator.

Trigger warnings: PTSD, torture and experimentation

*ARC provided by the author for an honest review.*

You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.

[JML · Rating 5 out of 5]

And they just keep getting better !💖🔥

this is book 3 in the Galactic Kings series and just when I thought it couldn't get better Ms. Hackett introduced us to Annora First Claw of Delmar and Thadd Captain of the guard the chemistry is absolutely off the charts. They argue, right and love with all the passion only soul mates can have. Both have know each other for a long time have completed missions with one another and the tension has always been high. Both right there attraction that's why they argue once they give in all that fighting turns into raw unimaginable passion and love. While working out what they mean to each other they go on one of the most dangerous missions to help save a planet from genocide. The action and danger is high you'll be on the edge of your seat but it's totally worth the ride. Highly recommend🔥💖🔥🔥💖🔥💖🔥💖🔥🔥💖🔥🔥💖🔥🔥🔥💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖🔥🔥💖💖🔥🔥 and we're left with a bit of a teaser King Graylan is next and he's going to need all his skill as a warrior to fight for the Earth woman he wants and possibly loves! Please please keep these great books coming!

[Chera · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captain of the Guard (Galactic Kings Book 3) brings the reader into the developing relationship between Thadd Naveri and Annora Rhal. Annora is First Claw, the best of the best of the Damar warriors in service to Emperor Brodin. She is a shapeshifter, has amazing strength and fighting ability, and she kissed Thadd Naveri at the Emperor’s wedding. Now she is doing everything she can to keep a distance between them. She won’t be treated as if she is a weak woman who needs a man to protect her.

Thadd Naveri is hanging on by a thread. He was captured, tortured, and used for experiments with implants by their mutual enemy. He is a strong male and doesn’t need help nor pity from anyone. He wants both to push Annora away and pull her closer. He knows one thing for certain, he’s going to do all in his power to keep her safe.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Captain of the Guard

I almost skipped this book because I like all the stories about ordinary Earth girls, and this story is not about humans. But it is still a fun romp between two ultra warriors. Both are powerful, competent, and controlling, which of course, sets off some spectacular sparks.

I liked how he is the one who has to move through emotional issues and he draws on her strength to do so. When he is trapped, he knows that she will come for him. And he is still a badass.

She is so strong that she can actually deliver this line and it's true,

“I think you underestimate my abilities. I can take care of myself.”

I cannot count the number of times it's been spoken by characters and as a reader, I sit there thinking, "no, no you can't", and then wait for doom to fall. Contrary to all that, the MFC actually can take care of herself.

[Avid Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Iron and Steel

A good read for both Annora and Thadd, to find out how he felt differently since his ordeal with Krastin experiment on him. What is it that was drawing him and she wolf together. There was chemistry as Annora ravaged him with a kiss out of blue, that blew his mind.

They teamed up to fight off a scientific experiment that would hurt people of Taln, as an advance team they went into enemy territory to destroy genite stone that would harm them. During the challenge Thadds fear happened and he was captured again, but he had strength to believe his partner would come. The She wolf came to the rescue and saved him. In the process they rescued another earth woman held captive for two years. She was experimented on and changed her. She is now on thaln to recover and heal. Be interesting to read this story.