What do you think?
Rate this book
Ice Planet Barbarians #6
Barbarian's Mate
The next novel in the international publishing phenomenon the Ice Planet Barbarians series, now in a special print edition with a bonus novella!
Josie has always dreamed of finding The One, but the hunter chosen for her is nothing like what she expected (or wanted)—but he might be exactly what she needs.
“Resonance” is supposed to be a dream—that’s when your soulmate is chosen for you. And every woman on the ice planet has hooked up with a big, hunky soulmate of their own—except me. So do I want a mate? Heck yeah. More than anything, all I’ve ever wanted is to be loved by someone.
But the soulmate chosen for me? My least favorite person on the darn ice planet. Haeden’s the most cranky, disapproving, unpleasant, overbearing male alien . . . so why is it that my body sings when he gets close? Why is he working so hard to prove to me that he’s not as awful as I think he is?
I hate him . . . don’t I?
Josie has always dreamed of finding The One, but the hunter chosen for her is nothing like what she expected (or wanted)—but he might be exactly what she needs.
“Resonance” is supposed to be a dream—that’s when your soulmate is chosen for you. And every woman on the ice planet has hooked up with a big, hunky soulmate of their own—except me. So do I want a mate? Heck yeah. More than anything, all I’ve ever wanted is to be loved by someone.
But the soulmate chosen for me? My least favorite person on the darn ice planet. Haeden’s the most cranky, disapproving, unpleasant, overbearing male alien . . . so why is it that my body sings when he gets close? Why is he working so hard to prove to me that he’s not as awful as I think he is?
I hate him . . . don’t I?
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 27, 2016
3112 people are currently reading
14400 people want to read
About the author
Ruby Dixon
166 books20.3k followersRuby Dixon is an author of Science Fiction Romance. She likes fated mates, baby-filled epilogues, and cinnamon roll heroes. She also likes to write biographies of herself in the third person, because it feels more important that way.
Ruby also loves coffee and dirty books and will probably be a cat lady at some point. :)
Ruby also loves coffee and dirty books and will probably be a cat lady at some point. :)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,211 reviews
March 30, 2025
i love these big blue aliens
May 28, 2024
Ice Planet Barbarians is my new personality. Every book is 80% the same story but I can’t stop 🤭
April 15, 2016
Reading Barbarian's Mate was like being celibate for years only to have your dry spell broken by a sex god with Michael Fassbender's package.
Mmmmm... Michael Fassbender.
Er, wait, what was I going to say again?
Oh, right.
So in short, this book was definitely worth the wait, and I'm not even going to lie to you, man--it's definitely my personal favourite out of all the installments in the series so far (sorry, Rukh and Harlow!), and I'll tell you why.
First, Haeden was Mr. Darcy incarnate. That is, if Mr. Darcy lived in another planet, had horns, blue skin and ridges.
Mmmmm. Ridges.
And if that doesn't count as reason number 2 then there is something fundamentally wrong with you. BECAUSE. THERE. ARE. SO. MANY. RIDGES. HERE. GODDAMN. AND. RIDGES. ARE. FUCKTASTIC.
And you know what we do with ridges? We Vektal the crap out of them.
Third, Josie was generally a likeable heroine. Yeah, she got annoying and selfish at some parts , but I understood why she was like that. Plus, she realised what a big selfish bitch she was later on anyway, so it never really became a big issue for me. I think that Tiffany was more annoying that Josie, but hey, to each his own, I guess.
The writing here was really good, though the pacing dragged a bit in the middle, forcing me to go all "JUST GET IT ON ALREADY, YOU TWO!"
There is one thing I want to point out, though, and that's the ex. Yes, Haeden was mated before, but before you get your panties in a twist, I'll clear it out now: the ex was an older alien woman who refused Haeden because she was in love with someone else. Thus, they never had sex, and there was no love lost between them. Haeden didn't have feelings for her and vice versa.
So now, all that's left is for you to read the book. Yes, go buy the book now.
Here is a Michael Fassbender gif to persuade you:
Mmmmm... Michael Fassbender.
Er, wait, what was I going to say again?
Oh, right.
So in short, this book was definitely worth the wait, and I'm not even going to lie to you, man--it's definitely my personal favourite out of all the installments in the series so far (sorry, Rukh and Harlow!), and I'll tell you why.
First, Haeden was Mr. Darcy incarnate. That is, if Mr. Darcy lived in another planet, had horns, blue skin and ridges.
Mmmmm. Ridges.
And if that doesn't count as reason number 2 then there is something fundamentally wrong with you. BECAUSE. THERE. ARE. SO. MANY. RIDGES. HERE. GODDAMN. AND. RIDGES. ARE. FUCKTASTIC.
And you know what we do with ridges? We Vektal the crap out of them.
Third, Josie was generally a likeable heroine. Yeah, she got annoying and selfish at some parts , but I understood why she was like that. Plus, she realised what a big selfish bitch she was later on anyway, so it never really became a big issue for me. I think that Tiffany was more annoying that Josie, but hey, to each his own, I guess.
The writing here was really good, though the pacing dragged a bit in the middle, forcing me to go all "JUST GET IT ON ALREADY, YOU TWO!"
There is one thing I want to point out, though, and that's the ex. Yes, Haeden was mated before, but before you get your panties in a twist, I'll clear it out now: the ex was an older alien woman who refused Haeden because she was in love with someone else. Thus, they never had sex, and there was no love lost between them. Haeden didn't have feelings for her and vice versa.
So now, all that's left is for you to read the book. Yes, go buy the book now.
Here is a Michael Fassbender gif to persuade you:
August 1, 2022
5 Haeden and Josie Stars
May have spoilers
What a cute enemies to lovers story. This book surprised me a bit. I loved Josie in the other books and didn't care much for grumpy, rude Haeden. In this book I loved Haeden so much and wanted to shake some sense into Josie. Both of their backstories were so sad. They both had a ton of baggage that made them act stupidly about the resonance. Even though they had a really rough start to their relationship they ended up being one of my favorite couples right after Raahosh and Liz.
Haeden had a ton of insecurities. He resonated to an older women who already had a lover. She refused him and kept sleeping with her lover while laughing at Haeden like he was lacking. She made them both so sick from resonances that she died and Haeden almost died and needed a new khui. Which is how he resonated to Josie. He cared so much, and had such fear of losing another mate that he came off pissy and cold. He was neither. He was brave, sweet, and really wanted to please Josie. He made a ton of mistakes, but he learned and changed. Josie also had a horrible life. On earth she was in and out of foster homes. Abused sexually, and mentally. Then she was raped by the bad aliens. She was never wanted and had a ton of insecurities of her own. They were both so broken and in pain. I loved watching them fall in love with each other. I loved seeing that love heal some of their pain.
While out by the ocean, Josie found two more human women in pods of the wrecked spaceship. She also found skyclaws. I don't want to spoil it but OMG those things are creepy. I loved getting to see Harlow and Rukh again. I also loved learning some new big news for Liz. Overall this book was mostly about the relationship between Josie and Haeden with just a bit of action thrown in to keep the series plot going. I really loved this book. I did feel Josie should have gave in sooner but still I loved them together. I can't wait for the next book.
May have spoilers
What a cute enemies to lovers story. This book surprised me a bit. I loved Josie in the other books and didn't care much for grumpy, rude Haeden. In this book I loved Haeden so much and wanted to shake some sense into Josie. Both of their backstories were so sad. They both had a ton of baggage that made them act stupidly about the resonance. Even though they had a really rough start to their relationship they ended up being one of my favorite couples right after Raahosh and Liz.
Haeden had a ton of insecurities. He resonated to an older women who already had a lover. She refused him and kept sleeping with her lover while laughing at Haeden like he was lacking. She made them both so sick from resonances that she died and Haeden almost died and needed a new khui. Which is how he resonated to Josie. He cared so much, and had such fear of losing another mate that he came off pissy and cold. He was neither. He was brave, sweet, and really wanted to please Josie. He made a ton of mistakes, but he learned and changed. Josie also had a horrible life. On earth she was in and out of foster homes. Abused sexually, and mentally. Then she was raped by the bad aliens. She was never wanted and had a ton of insecurities of her own. They were both so broken and in pain. I loved watching them fall in love with each other. I loved seeing that love heal some of their pain.
While out by the ocean, Josie found two more human women in pods of the wrecked spaceship. She also found skyclaws. I don't want to spoil it but OMG those things are creepy. I loved getting to see Harlow and Rukh again. I also loved learning some new big news for Liz. Overall this book was mostly about the relationship between Josie and Haeden with just a bit of action thrown in to keep the series plot going. I really loved this book. I did feel Josie should have gave in sooner but still I loved them together. I can't wait for the next book.
August 27, 2020
This was probably my least favorite of the series if I’m being honest. It wasn’t necessarily any worse than any of the other books, but I read these exclusively for da smuts and this one didn’t have nearly enough of that for my liking lmao so 2 stars it is
TW: rape; pedophilia, child abuse (all in the past and off page)
TW: rape; pedophilia, child abuse (all in the past and off page)
March 29, 2016
Look, I know you don't want to read smut. But, this is alien smut. That makes it fall into the Science Fiction category. You can read this series and tell everyone that you are a Sci-Fi loving girl. They will see this:
When you are actually this:
See? You can fool everyone and still get to enjoy the ooey gooey goodness that is the big blue aliens finding their human mates. It's funny, spicy, and endearing. Just add chocolate and you have everything you need to have a happy, fulfilling life.
okay, Mr. Literal... sheesh, that guy is a buzz-kill
And, if you are still feeling guilty, you can always hide your e-reader in a copy of War and Peace or something.
You just need to read these books.
When you are actually this:
See? You can fool everyone and still get to enjoy the ooey gooey goodness that is the big blue aliens finding their human mates. It's funny, spicy, and endearing. Just add chocolate and you have everything you need to have a happy, fulfilling life.
okay, Mr. Literal... sheesh, that guy is a buzz-kill
And, if you are still feeling guilty, you can always hide your e-reader in a copy of War and Peace or something.
You just need to read these books.
January 2, 2017
2.5 I really didn’t like Josie stars
Sigh. I really like this series because it makes me happy. It’s easy reading and it’s “different”. I find all books different and I was curious about Josie’s story. I really like the tension we got in the previous book so I was REALLY looking forward to this one.
I didn’t event take a reading book break, I instantly jumped from the previous book to this one.
BUT gah. … I wanted to SLAP Josie in her STUPID FACE.
I hated her. She was so annoying, so MEAN, REALLY selfish and I didn’t understand her character at all.
She told the guy SHE HATED HIM!? For what? For being a broody male? Umm.. okay. So he’s not the nicest guy, but he hasn’t done ANTYHING get your anger.
This one was a roller coaster of emotions or Josie giving me whip lash. Does she like him? Does she not like him? She then tries to have sex JUST to have a baby, but she can’t do it because she has to be in love.
It’s kind of like she’s in a fixed up marriage and she REALLY doesn’t like her suitor, but instead of just being grateful and TRYING to like the guy, she calls him names, pushes him around and
I was highly disappointed in this one and the only redeeming quality is the last part. I really enjoyed the ending, esp.
I still love this series and I’m happy it didn’t just end with Josie. I can’t wait for the next… okay I can. I’m going to take a mini book break and then I’ll jump back into this series.
Sigh. I really like this series because it makes me happy. It’s easy reading and it’s “different”. I find all books different and I was curious about Josie’s story. I really like the tension we got in the previous book so I was REALLY looking forward to this one.
I didn’t event take a reading book break, I instantly jumped from the previous book to this one.
BUT gah. … I wanted to SLAP Josie in her STUPID FACE.
I hated her. She was so annoying, so MEAN, REALLY selfish and I didn’t understand her character at all.
She told the guy SHE HATED HIM!? For what? For being a broody male? Umm.. okay. So he’s not the nicest guy, but he hasn’t done ANTYHING get your anger.
This one was a roller coaster of emotions or Josie giving me whip lash. Does she like him? Does she not like him? She then tries to have sex JUST to have a baby, but she can’t do it because she has to be in love.
It’s kind of like she’s in a fixed up marriage and she REALLY doesn’t like her suitor, but instead of just being grateful and TRYING to like the guy, she calls him names, pushes him around and
I was highly disappointed in this one and the only redeeming quality is the last part. I really enjoyed the ending, esp.
I still love this series and I’m happy it didn’t just end with Josie. I can’t wait for the next… okay I can. I’m going to take a mini book break and then I’ll jump back into this series.
March 22, 2017
The grumpy alien and his reluctant mate
Haeden is grumpiness personified, but I suppose all the readers despise Josie.
That’s because Haeden has a very good reason for being grumpy: He was rejected by his first mate and then she died and he was left alone and virgin all his life.
On the other hand, Josie has no particular reason for being reluctant: She wants family and children, but she does not want to give a chance to Haeden.
I think this is the only story –besides maybe the story of Liz and Raahosh as the second one- that the two main characters suffer so much and for so long from khui fever. Seriously, they almost die waiting and not acting on their need.
Haeden and Josie will need a lot of time to come to an understanding, to start liking each other, to fall in love and to realize that they are perfect for each other.
Josie needs so badly love and affection and Haeden needs so much to provide support and care. His nurturing instincts are well hidden behind his bad-temperedness.
The world building is still excellent. A strange green island in the middle of the ocean; the vicious tall, monkey-like creatures; the huge birds that can attack and swallow grown up humans in one gulp.
Overall, an excellent addition to the series!
Haeden is grumpiness personified, but I suppose all the readers despise Josie.
That’s because Haeden has a very good reason for being grumpy: He was rejected by his first mate and then she died and he was left alone and virgin all his life.
On the other hand, Josie has no particular reason for being reluctant: She wants family and children, but she does not want to give a chance to Haeden.
I think this is the only story –besides maybe the story of Liz and Raahosh as the second one- that the two main characters suffer so much and for so long from khui fever. Seriously, they almost die waiting and not acting on their need.
Haeden and Josie will need a lot of time to come to an understanding, to start liking each other, to fall in love and to realize that they are perfect for each other.
Josie needs so badly love and affection and Haeden needs so much to provide support and care. His nurturing instincts are well hidden behind his bad-temperedness.
The world building is still excellent. A strange green island in the middle of the ocean; the vicious tall, monkey-like creatures; the huge birds that can attack and swallow grown up humans in one gulp.
Overall, an excellent addition to the series!
October 25, 2016
4 Stars
I REALLY enjoyed this.
Haeden was awesome. I LOVE stoic, grumpy assholes.
And being that we had five books worth of such behavior from him leading up to this one?
SWOON.
I loved how much he cared for Josie.
And then scene where
SO. MUCH. FUN.
So why not 5 stars?
One word:
Josie.
She does something SO selfish and awful in this book, that, well...
It almost made me throw my kindle in annoyance.
And, as much as I loved this, I just couldn't completely forgive her for it.
Fine me at:
I REALLY enjoyed this.
Haeden was awesome. I LOVE stoic, grumpy assholes.
And being that we had five books worth of such behavior from him leading up to this one?
SWOON.
I loved how much he cared for Josie.
And then scene where
SO. MUCH. FUN.
So why not 5 stars?
One word:
Josie.
She does something SO selfish and awful in this book, that, well...
It almost made me throw my kindle in annoyance.
And, as much as I loved this, I just couldn't completely forgive her for it.
Fine me at:
March 26, 2016
4 Stars!
I was really anticipating this story since Josie and Haeden were first introduced in the series. Usually when I'm so eager I get disappointed but this story met my expectations :)
I expected Josie to fight their resonance based on how the last book ended, and that's why I didn't give it 5 stars. She came off a bit mean and insensitive at times and pushed Haeden away so much.
I loved Haeden! He did the sweetest things, although he is not a man of many words his actions and feelings for Josie were very much apparent. He was a very determined yet patient character and understood that Josie needed time to adjust... even though he didn't necessarily agree with giving her time..
"At the thought, another surge of fierce possessiveness rises in me. Whatever she may think, she is mine"
I am so stoked the Ruby Dixon has found a way to prolong this series more! I was not ready to let go of my big blue aliens =D
I was really anticipating this story since Josie and Haeden were first introduced in the series. Usually when I'm so eager I get disappointed but this story met my expectations :)
I expected Josie to fight their resonance based on how the last book ended, and that's why I didn't give it 5 stars. She came off a bit mean and insensitive at times and pushed Haeden away so much.
I loved Haeden! He did the sweetest things, although he is not a man of many words his actions and feelings for Josie were very much apparent. He was a very determined yet patient character and understood that Josie needed time to adjust... even though he didn't necessarily agree with giving her time..
"At the thought, another surge of fierce possessiveness rises in me. Whatever she may think, she is mine"
I am so stoked the Ruby Dixon has found a way to prolong this series more! I was not ready to let go of my big blue aliens =D
March 29, 2016
Ruby Dixon - I love you.
This series gets better with every new installment.
I finished this yesterday and I'm having trouble finding words to express how much I enjoyed it.
It made me laugh, it made me cry, it made my heart hurt.
Haeden was amazing. So amazing, he very nearly knocked Raahosh out of my heart. But not quite. LOVE YOU RAAHOSH.
Josie was a bit annoying - just get it on with the big blue peen for fucks sake! But she came around eventually and then she was all like "why have I been holding out against this for so long?" *facepalm*
Plenty of boing for your buck in this. But the slow burn at the start with Haeden's heartbreaking observations was what truly made this so great. I had butterflies.
Alien smut gave me butterflies.
LOVES.
I need the next one ASAP.
4 you-are-perfect-always Stars
This series gets better with every new installment.
I finished this yesterday and I'm having trouble finding words to express how much I enjoyed it.
It made me laugh, it made me cry, it made my heart hurt.
Haeden was amazing. So amazing, he very nearly knocked Raahosh out of my heart. But not quite. LOVE YOU RAAHOSH.
Josie was a bit annoying - just get it on with the big blue peen for fucks sake! But she came around eventually and then she was all like "why have I been holding out against this for so long?" *facepalm*
Plenty of boing for your buck in this. But the slow burn at the start with Haeden's heartbreaking observations was what truly made this so great. I had butterflies.
Alien smut gave me butterflies.
LOVES.
I need the next one ASAP.
4 you-are-perfect-always Stars
February 20, 2024
Another one in the series I really enjoyed.
“I want her. I want her to want me. Is that so unreasonable?”
These two had a really intense dislike towards one another. And unfortunately are fated mates, which meant that ignoring each other was out of the question.
The hero had a really gruff exterior and whilst the heroine is usually bubbly, he brings out the worst in her.
They were both valid in their dislike and the false perceptions that came up because of it. Both of them have had a past.
They’re forced to talk it out at one point and things fall into place.
The sweetness of these alien men remains unmatched. They’re such cheese-balls and I love it! 🥰
I could stay in this world awhile.
“I want her. I want her to want me. Is that so unreasonable?”
These two had a really intense dislike towards one another. And unfortunately are fated mates, which meant that ignoring each other was out of the question.
The hero had a really gruff exterior and whilst the heroine is usually bubbly, he brings out the worst in her.
They were both valid in their dislike and the false perceptions that came up because of it. Both of them have had a past.
They’re forced to talk it out at one point and things fall into place.
The sweetness of these alien men remains unmatched. They’re such cheese-balls and I love it! 🥰
I could stay in this world awhile.
September 4, 2019
This is Josie's and Haeden's story, and OMG it is just heart meltingly good!! I fell in love with them.
They both were going through so much but coming together made it all the more special. Love, absolutely love this book!!
They both were going through so much but coming together made it all the more special. Love, absolutely love this book!!
May 21, 2022
Fear and Loathing on the Ice Planet!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Romance: 💙💚💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 🫣☺️😎😯
The heroine: Josie - she is the last woman in her group that hasn’t yet resonated with a male. When she finally resonates, she is happy, but then she finds out it is with Haeden, the one male she doesn’t get along with. Josie grew up in group homes and foster care with no family and nobody wanting her so she wants a family and wants someone to love her but fears ending up in a relationship without love.
The Hero: Haeden - a long time ago, when he was young, he resonated with a woman who didn’t want him, then died. He felt a connection with Josie since his clan first found the human women. Though he has been grouchy and grumpy with her because human women are so small and fragile and he fears losing another mate.
The Story: Josie dislikes Haeden and when she finds that he is her mate, she doesn’t want it since it is not of her choosing. Though she may have valid fears due to her upbringing, she doesn’t treat Haeden well at all and behaves pretty selfishly. Though Haeden was grumpy to her, once they resonated, he treated her much better but it took her quite a while to realize it.
I didn’t like Josie much through nearly half of the book, but I liked the fact that she finally realizes how poorly she treated him. I also like the fact that though her actions were not the best, they were a part of her growth as a person and I liked where the story went. It got much better after Josie finally lets Haeden in, there was also some side storylines that were great.
The book was told in dual POV with narration by Mason Lloyd and Hollie Jackson and they did a great job. I kind of like the slightly stilted and formal cadence that Mason uses for the male aliens. It sounds authentic and I enjoy it.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Romance: 💙💚💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 🫣☺️😎😯
The heroine: Josie - she is the last woman in her group that hasn’t yet resonated with a male. When she finally resonates, she is happy, but then she finds out it is with Haeden, the one male she doesn’t get along with. Josie grew up in group homes and foster care with no family and nobody wanting her so she wants a family and wants someone to love her but fears ending up in a relationship without love.
The Hero: Haeden - a long time ago, when he was young, he resonated with a woman who didn’t want him, then died. He felt a connection with Josie since his clan first found the human women. Though he has been grouchy and grumpy with her because human women are so small and fragile and he fears losing another mate.
The Story: Josie dislikes Haeden and when she finds that he is her mate, she doesn’t want it since it is not of her choosing. Though she may have valid fears due to her upbringing, she doesn’t treat Haeden well at all and behaves pretty selfishly. Though Haeden was grumpy to her, once they resonated, he treated her much better but it took her quite a while to realize it.
I didn’t like Josie much through nearly half of the book, but I liked the fact that she finally realizes how poorly she treated him. I also like the fact that though her actions were not the best, they were a part of her growth as a person and I liked where the story went. It got much better after Josie finally lets Haeden in, there was also some side storylines that were great.
The book was told in dual POV with narration by Mason Lloyd and Hollie Jackson and they did a great job. I kind of like the slightly stilted and formal cadence that Mason uses for the male aliens. It sounds authentic and I enjoy it.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
February 6, 2018
2.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: Welp. I am currently giving myself a pat on the back for finishing this one tbh. It was pretty brutal for the first half with how spectacularly annoying Josie was! I kept on thinking about he reviews from my GR friends and how they said that Haeden makes up for it all, so I kept going...but even though I agree that he was a good H, I'm not sure he really made up for how much I disliked her character. I'm bummed because I have enjoyed this series, but I think I'm just about ready to throw in the towel after this one (and the not-so-stellar reviews of the ones I haven't read yet).
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Josie and Haeden's story. They have a enemy type relationship going on when they are shocked to find that Josie's cootie has chosen Haeden as her mate. Josie strongly fights it for a while, but Haeden sticks with her because he has a strong sense of possessiveness for her. They end up on a journey that has them stuck alone in a cave for several days, and the cannot fight their attraction any longer and give in to their fates. There are some suspenseful moments, some sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Josie and Haeden's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. The ending felt abrupt, but otherwise I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 4 stars. Haeden. I liked him. I did want him to communicate a little better a few times, but for the most part I understood where he was coming from and enjoyed his character.
h rating: 1 stars. Josie. She was freaking annoying! I wanted to shake her (or slap her) so many times! She was such an unlikable character that I really don't have words tbh.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes!
Heat level: Okay. They have some alright tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. It takes a while for things to happen between them because of the h pushing away.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had not much closure, but relationship wise they are pretty solid . I would call it a HFN ending.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: Welp. I am currently giving myself a pat on the back for finishing this one tbh. It was pretty brutal for the first half with how spectacularly annoying Josie was! I kept on thinking about he reviews from my GR friends and how they said that Haeden makes up for it all, so I kept going...but even though I agree that he was a good H, I'm not sure he really made up for how much I disliked her character. I'm bummed because I have enjoyed this series, but I think I'm just about ready to throw in the towel after this one (and the not-so-stellar reviews of the ones I haven't read yet).
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Josie and Haeden's story. They have a enemy type relationship going on when they are shocked to find that Josie's cootie has chosen Haeden as her mate. Josie strongly fights it for a while, but Haeden sticks with her because he has a strong sense of possessiveness for her. They end up on a journey that has them stuck alone in a cave for several days, and the cannot fight their attraction any longer and give in to their fates. There are some suspenseful moments, some sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Josie and Haeden's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. The ending felt abrupt, but otherwise I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 4 stars. Haeden. I liked him. I did want him to communicate a little better a few times, but for the most part I understood where he was coming from and enjoyed his character.
h rating: 1 stars. Josie. She was freaking annoying! I wanted to shake her (or slap her) so many times! She was such an unlikable character that I really don't have words tbh.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes!
Heat level: Okay. They have some alright tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. It takes a while for things to happen between them because of the h pushing away.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had not much closure, but relationship wise they are pretty solid . I would call it a HFN ending.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
July 26, 2025
Im loving all the male Virgins in this series. It’s so rare that we get them that I can deal w a lot to have me a male virgin 🤭
I liked Josie a lot I loved how strong she was after everything her life dished out at her. I totally understood why she didn’t want to settle for anyone who didn’t like her. She wanted and deserved a good mate l. She got him but it took a while to get there. L
I felt frustrated w Haeden more cause he needed to make things clearer very early on. He knew she thought he hated her but never tried to get to know her or make things better.
I liked when they finally started to talk. Wish it was earlier. Cause miscommunications trope isn’t my fav.
In the end I loved them both.
Haeden- Virgin!!!
Josie - had SA in her past and never liked sex a lot till her mate.
I liked Josie a lot I loved how strong she was after everything her life dished out at her. I totally understood why she didn’t want to settle for anyone who didn’t like her. She wanted and deserved a good mate l. She got him but it took a while to get there. L
I felt frustrated w Haeden more cause he needed to make things clearer very early on. He knew she thought he hated her but never tried to get to know her or make things better.
I liked when they finally started to talk. Wish it was earlier. Cause miscommunications trope isn’t my fav.
In the end I loved them both.
Haeden- Virgin!!!
Josie - had SA in her past and never liked sex a lot till her mate.
March 5, 2017
2 stars
Josie is a self-centered asshole... I kept shaking my head and all her asinine comments and ideas. Disappointed because I really liked her before her own book.
Josie is a self-centered asshole... I kept shaking my head and all her asinine comments and ideas. Disappointed because I really liked her before her own book.
July 22, 2021
This one is a mixed emotion for me. Why you ask? I’ll explain.
My feelings for Haeden…..
My feelings for Josie…..
I correct myself, I hated her for the first 70% of the book. I literally wanted to stab her in the eye. I’m so shocked, surprised and extremely mad because I was so excited for her and Haeden’s book. And instead of devouring this book with happiest, I’m trying not to throw my phone.
Honestly, if it wasn’t for the fact that this book is only 6 hrs of audio, I don’t think I would have gotten through.
The way she treated Haeden and the fact that she was so selfish and what she tried to do just makes me so angry. I will say, she did redeem herself a little, but just not enough for me to go back to liking her.
Nothing worse than disliking the character you couldn’t wait for.
Did I hate Josie, yes. Did I still enjoy this book, yes. Will I continue, fuck yes.
Instagram | My Blog | Facebook
My feelings for Haeden…..
My feelings for Josie…..
I correct myself, I hated her for the first 70% of the book. I literally wanted to stab her in the eye. I’m so shocked, surprised and extremely mad because I was so excited for her and Haeden’s book. And instead of devouring this book with happiest, I’m trying not to throw my phone.
Honestly, if it wasn’t for the fact that this book is only 6 hrs of audio, I don’t think I would have gotten through.
The way she treated Haeden and the fact that she was so selfish and what she tried to do just makes me so angry. I will say, she did redeem herself a little, but just not enough for me to go back to liking her.
Nothing worse than disliking the character you couldn’t wait for.
Did I hate Josie, yes. Did I still enjoy this book, yes. Will I continue, fuck yes.
Instagram | My Blog | Facebook
August 3, 2016
3.0 RATING- I think this series is a lot of fun to read and I was really looking forward to this one. Unfortunately, for almost all of the book, I didn't care for the heroine. I thought she acted like a cranky selfish bitch and undeserving of her blue alien hunk.
May 9, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
Süße Enemies-To-Lovers Geschichte. Hab wirklich sehr mitgelitten, wann immer Josie Haeden zurückgewiesen hat, besonders weil ich sie beide so gut verstehen konnte.
Der Miscommunication-Trope war mir etwas zu viel, deshalb eine eher milde Sternebewertung. Und irgendwie verloren bisher alle Teile der Reihe ab dem letzten Drittel ihren Kick. Aber auch in Ordnung, die Bücher sind ja echt total kurz.
Süße Enemies-To-Lovers Geschichte. Hab wirklich sehr mitgelitten, wann immer Josie Haeden zurückgewiesen hat, besonders weil ich sie beide so gut verstehen konnte.
Der Miscommunication-Trope war mir etwas zu viel, deshalb eine eher milde Sternebewertung. Und irgendwie verloren bisher alle Teile der Reihe ab dem letzten Drittel ihren Kick. Aber auch in Ordnung, die Bücher sind ja echt total kurz.
December 8, 2022
reread one haha what did i tell you now in december i am going to figure out all the secrets on this planet you wait
I am way to invested in this series
I wanna know what happened to the other girl and who took her
I need to know what’s on the island
And I wanna see my groups family’s grow 😭😭
I am 100% gonna read all 22 books after exam season is over so see you in November bitches
I am way to invested in this series
I wanna know what happened to the other girl and who took her
I need to know what’s on the island
And I wanna see my groups family’s grow 😭😭
I am 100% gonna read all 22 books after exam season is over so see you in November bitches
April 14, 2016
Before anything else, let me just point out the cover of this book.
DAAAAAYM! BEST BOOK COVER IN THIS SERIES SO FAR. JUST LOOKING AT IT IS PRACTICALLY ORGASM INDUCING.
It certainly did wreak havoc in my imaginations -
Gave lots of ideas - BOING!
And (my) mind percolated with possibilities - BOING!
Ok, I think I've said enough how my body went hot with feminine appreciation with that cover alone.
On to the story.
This book is about Josie, our last unmated human chick, and Haeden, the cranky, grouchy, overbearing blue horned bag but barbarian.
Josie wanted what an ordinary female would want - a mate to call her own and make babies to love.
And Haeden? Well, I won't say anything about his story. I would let you, readers, find out about this grouchy but very alpha blue alien. That way nothing is ruined and you'll get to experience it first hand.
Although, this I would say - Haeden definitely stole the scene.
Yes, he was GRUMPY but affable at the same time.
I love my Romeos scarred, yes to crabbiness too(coz it makes them more appealing) protective and hellcats in the sack.
YES. YES TO ALL. TIMES ONE HUNDRED PLS.
*clears throat*
They resonated.
And so their journey begins.
I won't go into details in this review, that is why we read books but believe me when I say that this is an EXCELLENT story. Sure you would have frustrating moments induced by Josie's stupidity - I hated her and at some point I didn't want her to have Haeden but without it, the story will be just bland and flat.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bloody Josie just followed him with a scowl on her face.
If I were her I would've tossed Haeden against the wall and rub myself all over him like a hussy of a cat on a scratching post.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
But of course, cooties are relentless and waay smarter than anyone's heads so they finally gave in.
And let me tell you, Haeden who prefers to do the actions started communicating.
And his choice of words...
Lastly, RIDGES
weren't mentioned a lot in here. I forgave Ms Dixon as she showered me with lotsa Vektalling and I loved it.
Rating it 4.5 ICE-PLANET-BLUE-HORNEDBAG-BARBARIANS-ARE-HAZARDOUS-TO-FEMALES-HORMONES Stars
_________
4.4.16
UNDRESSING HAEDEN NOW. AND SO IT BEGINS! COME AT ME RIDGES. COME AT ME!
_________
30.3.16
THEY SAID RIDGES ARE OVERFLOWING IN THIS BOOK 0.0
PUNANIS WILL REJOICE!
__________________
Off to the future to read this book already!
DAAAAAYM! BEST BOOK COVER IN THIS SERIES SO FAR. JUST LOOKING AT IT IS PRACTICALLY ORGASM INDUCING.
It certainly did wreak havoc in my imaginations -
Gave lots of ideas - BOING!
And (my) mind percolated with possibilities - BOING!
Ok, I think I've said enough how my body went hot with feminine appreciation with that cover alone.
On to the story.
This book is about Josie, our last unmated human chick, and Haeden, the cranky, grouchy, overbearing blue horned bag but barbarian.
Josie wanted what an ordinary female would want - a mate to call her own and make babies to love.
And Haeden? Well, I won't say anything about his story. I would let you, readers, find out about this grouchy but very alpha blue alien. That way nothing is ruined and you'll get to experience it first hand.
Although, this I would say - Haeden definitely stole the scene.
Yes, he was GRUMPY but affable at the same time.
I love my Romeos scarred, yes to crabbiness too(coz it makes them more appealing) protective and hellcats in the sack.
YES. YES TO ALL. TIMES ONE HUNDRED PLS.
*clears throat*
They resonated.
And so their journey begins.
I won't go into details in this review, that is why we read books but believe me when I say that this is an EXCELLENT story. Sure you would have frustrating moments induced by Josie's stupidity - I hated her and at some point I didn't want her to have Haeden but without it, the story will be just bland and flat.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“So unless you want to resonate in public and all the things that entails, come with me so we can talk.”
Bloody Josie just followed him with a scowl on her face.
If I were her I would've tossed Haeden against the wall and rub myself all over him like a hussy of a cat on a scratching post.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
But of course, cooties are relentless and waay smarter than anyone's heads so they finally gave in.
And let me tell you, Haeden who prefers to do the actions started communicating.
And his choice of words...
Lastly, RIDGES
weren't mentioned a lot in here. I forgave Ms Dixon as she showered me with lotsa Vektalling and I loved it.
Rating it 4.5 ICE-PLANET-BLUE-HORNEDBAG-BARBARIANS-ARE-HAZARDOUS-TO-FEMALES-HORMONES Stars
_________
4.4.16
UNDRESSING HAEDEN NOW. AND SO IT BEGINS! COME AT ME RIDGES. COME AT ME!
_________
30.3.16
THEY SAID RIDGES ARE OVERFLOWING IN THIS BOOK 0.0
PUNANIS WILL REJOICE!
__________________
Off to the future to read this book already!
September 1, 2024
Oh I loved this one.
This was opposites attract to a T, and combine with a enemies-to-lovers, and you get *chef's kiss*. I was obssseeeessseeedddd.
This was opposites attract to a T, and combine with a enemies-to-lovers, and you get *chef's kiss*. I was obssseeeessseeedddd.
April 8, 2016
Review in the works.
May 6, 2019
2 stars. Oooh I didn't like this one at all. Josie is the most unpleasant bitch there is and I hated her. I empathized because of the terrible things she'd been through but I still wanted her to fall off of a cliff. Poor Haeden was stuck with her as a mate even though she was so hateful and mean to him. Even though there are chapters told in his point of view, they still couldn't save this book because Josie was just awful. The only good part was when . The story could've ended right there and I would've been perfectly happy. I still enjoy this series but I'm glad to be done with this particular book. Haeden deserved better.
February 10, 2023
Haeden has been on my radar since a few books ago and Mr Tall, Dark and Broody did not disappoint. Is he my new number 1 in the blue alien fan listing? I'm not sure yet, but I loved him and this book is definitely in my top 2 of the series so far.
"He wears his [long black hair] shaved on the sides and in one extra-long braid over the top of his head and down his back".
*starts fanning herself* What is it with this haircut??
We finally discover what hurt him so, and I admit my eyes teared up several times. I kinda hated Josie for a bit there, just because she was causing my Haedie more pain, but I guess we're cool now.
I sigh, thinking of Jo-see's smiles... the ones she never has for me. A wistful ache blooms in my chest. "I want her. I want her to want me. Is that so unreasonable?"
NO IT IS NOT, YOU MAGNIFICENT MAN. He's so sad and grumpy and I just want to hug him and give him the biggest smiles anyone's ever given. (Yes, you guessed it, I've had my fair share of "he's broken, I'll fix him" boyfriends in the past - yet somehow that never works out irl?)
I love when she finally warms up to him and he feels like the happiest man alive. And when he thinks he's lost her? MY HEART. I cry.
"I had a mate," I snarl at it, stabbing my knife into its side again. "And I loved her! You took her from me!"
He's a passionate one, I'll tell ya that.
I love for her that she finds her safe place in this world as well, because she truly deserves it. I understand why she was so standoffish and love that he had the patience to wait for her. The miscommunications they had irked me to no end, but I'm glad everything got resolved in the end.
"But do not seek to tell me that you are not mine yet. Because you have always been mine." Her wounded eyes blink, and then she nods slowly. "Yours," she whispers.
"Always," I growl back.
"He wears his [long black hair] shaved on the sides and in one extra-long braid over the top of his head and down his back".
*starts fanning herself* What is it with this haircut??
We finally discover what hurt him so, and I admit my eyes teared up several times. I kinda hated Josie for a bit there, just because she was causing my Haedie more pain, but I guess we're cool now.
I sigh, thinking of Jo-see's smiles... the ones she never has for me. A wistful ache blooms in my chest. "I want her. I want her to want me. Is that so unreasonable?"
NO IT IS NOT, YOU MAGNIFICENT MAN. He's so sad and grumpy and I just want to hug him and give him the biggest smiles anyone's ever given. (Yes, you guessed it, I've had my fair share of "he's broken, I'll fix him" boyfriends in the past - yet somehow that never works out irl?)
I love when she finally warms up to him and he feels like the happiest man alive. And when he thinks he's lost her? MY HEART. I cry.
"I had a mate," I snarl at it, stabbing my knife into its side again. "And I loved her! You took her from me!"
He's a passionate one, I'll tell ya that.
I love for her that she finds her safe place in this world as well, because she truly deserves it. I understand why she was so standoffish and love that he had the patience to wait for her. The miscommunications they had irked me to no end, but I'm glad everything got resolved in the end.
"But do not seek to tell me that you are not mine yet. Because you have always been mine." Her wounded eyes blink, and then she nods slowly. "Yours," she whispers.
"Always," I growl back.
March 28, 2016
I think this may be my fav planet blue balls book. Haeden, that broody, pissy, bastard......I loves him!
June 10, 2021
I’m officially done. I can’t do anymore. I give up.
August 4, 2023
4 ⭐ An angsty enemies-to-lovers alien romance
"He's everything I never wanted. I thought my cootie would pick a mate that would be kind, and gentle, and caring. Instead, I get the sa-khui Oscar the Grouch, minus the garbage can." 😂
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ alien romance
✨ mars needs women trope
✨ enemies to lovers
✨ grumpy x sunshine
✨ fated mates
✨ virgin mmc
✨ miscommunication
✨ angst
✨ 3/5 spice 🌶️
✨ HEA
✨ tw: past sexual assault and abuse in foster care, death of a previous mate
Summary:
Josie is the last of the human women to resonate, and she desperately wants to find her soulmate. But when her khui picks Haeden, the most cranky, unpleasant, overbearing male alien, she's anything but excited. Josie tries to fight resonance, but it's useless. Their khuis have chosen each other, and their joining is inevitable.
Haeden already had a mate, but she died during the sickness. Now, fate has offered him another chance at happiness. However, Josie doesn't want him, which is understandable considering all he's done since she arrived is fought with her. Haeden's always felt some pull toward Josie, yet his fear has caused him to keep his distance. But with the khui's constant song in his chest, he can no longer ignore Josie and tries to win her affection by proving he's more than just a surly male.
Thoughts:
So happy Josie gets her HEA. ♥️ First off, Josie had a sad childhood where many terrible things happened to her. Yet through it all, she approaches life with such positivity and love. I really admire that about her and think she is one of the strongest characters in this series.
Then, as she settles into life on Not-Hoth, she so desperately wants a mate and a family, yet her khui stays quiet. But that didn't stop her from being hopeful. Until one day, it goes and picks the one person she hates on this planet. 😂 The irony. Josie may have fought resonance at first. However, in the end, her khui knew what it was doing and picked the perfect mate for her - one who would understand what it's like to feel unwanted or unloved.
Haeden is the perfect grumpy MMC! He truly gives off 'I hate everyone but her' vibes, but he even didn't really like Josie in the beginning either. 😂 A total grump. I honestly didn't like him at first, but over the course of the book, we learn about his past and understand why he's built up so many walls around himself and why it's so hard for him to open up. I enjoyed getting to know him and how he softened around Josie. This quote below had me swooning. ♥️
"You are mine. If you are taken, I will come after you. If you are sick, I will never leave your side. If you leave, I will follow. You will never be without me, because I will come after you. Know this."
I absolutely loved the bonus Honeymoon content in Berkley's special edition! This focused on Josie and Haeden further exploring each other and their sexual preferences. There's spanking, safe words, and lube . . . and both Josie and Haeden get their happy endings (if you know what I mean 😉). Overall, a fun and sexy addition to their story.
Even though this is a smutty alien romance, I'm so invested in the world of IPB and the overarching plot. Just when you think the series would end since Josie is the last of the human women . . . something exciting and unexpected happens that will carry us onto the next book. Ruby Dixon knows how to keep things interesting. I can't wait to continue with the series and find out who will be mated next!
Thank you NetGalley for providing an e-ARC copy of this special edition version in exchange for an honest review! As always, all opinions are my own.
Ice Planet Barbarian Books + Ratings
💎 = Favorites
1. Ice Planet Barbarians - 4.5/5 💎
1.5. Ice Planet Honeymoon: Vektal & Georgie - 3/5
2. Barbarian Alien - 4/5
2.5. Ice Planet Honeymoon: Raahosh & Liz - 4/5
3. Barbarian Lover - 5/5 💎
3.5. Ice Planet Honeymoon: Aehako & Kira - 3.5/5
4. Barbarian Mine - 4.5/5 💎
4.5. Ice Planet Honeymoon: Rukh & Harlow - 4.5/5 💎
5. Ice Planet Holiday - 4/5
6. Barbarian’s Prize - 4/5
7. Barbarian’s Mate - 4/5
7.1. Having The Barbarian’s Baby- 3/5
7.2. Ice Ice Babies - 3.5/5
8. Barbarian’s Touch - 4/5
8.5. Calm - 3/5
9. Barbarian’s Taming - 4.5/5 💎
9.5. Aftershocks - 3.5/5
10. Barbarian’s Heart - 4.5/5 💎
11. Barbarian’s Hope - 4/5
12. Barbarian’s Choice - 4.5/5 💎
13. Barbarian’s Redemption - 4/5
14. Barbarian’s Lady - 5/5 💎
15. Barbarian’s Rescue - 3/5
16. Barbarian’s Tease - 3.5/5
16.5. The Barbarian Before Christmas - 3/5
17. Barbarian’s Beloved - 4.5/5 💎
17.5. Barbarian’s Valentine - 3.5/5
18. Barbarian’s Seduction - 4/5
19. Barbarian’s Treasure - 3/5
20. Barbarian’s Bride - 3.5/5
"He's everything I never wanted. I thought my cootie would pick a mate that would be kind, and gentle, and caring. Instead, I get the sa-khui Oscar the Grouch, minus the garbage can." 😂
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ alien romance
✨ mars needs women trope
✨ enemies to lovers
✨ grumpy x sunshine
✨ fated mates
✨ virgin mmc
✨ miscommunication
✨ angst
✨ 3/5 spice 🌶️
✨ HEA
✨ tw: past sexual assault and abuse in foster care, death of a previous mate
Summary:
Josie is the last of the human women to resonate, and she desperately wants to find her soulmate. But when her khui picks Haeden, the most cranky, unpleasant, overbearing male alien, she's anything but excited. Josie tries to fight resonance, but it's useless. Their khuis have chosen each other, and their joining is inevitable.
Haeden already had a mate, but she died during the sickness. Now, fate has offered him another chance at happiness. However, Josie doesn't want him, which is understandable considering all he's done since she arrived is fought with her. Haeden's always felt some pull toward Josie, yet his fear has caused him to keep his distance. But with the khui's constant song in his chest, he can no longer ignore Josie and tries to win her affection by proving he's more than just a surly male.
Thoughts:
So happy Josie gets her HEA. ♥️ First off, Josie had a sad childhood where many terrible things happened to her. Yet through it all, she approaches life with such positivity and love. I really admire that about her and think she is one of the strongest characters in this series.
Then, as she settles into life on Not-Hoth, she so desperately wants a mate and a family, yet her khui stays quiet. But that didn't stop her from being hopeful. Until one day, it goes and picks the one person she hates on this planet. 😂 The irony. Josie may have fought resonance at first. However, in the end, her khui knew what it was doing and picked the perfect mate for her - one who would understand what it's like to feel unwanted or unloved.
Haeden is the perfect grumpy MMC! He truly gives off 'I hate everyone but her' vibes, but he even didn't really like Josie in the beginning either. 😂 A total grump. I honestly didn't like him at first, but over the course of the book, we learn about his past and understand why he's built up so many walls around himself and why it's so hard for him to open up. I enjoyed getting to know him and how he softened around Josie. This quote below had me swooning. ♥️
"You are mine. If you are taken, I will come after you. If you are sick, I will never leave your side. If you leave, I will follow. You will never be without me, because I will come after you. Know this."
I absolutely loved the bonus Honeymoon content in Berkley's special edition! This focused on Josie and Haeden further exploring each other and their sexual preferences. There's spanking, safe words, and lube . . . and both Josie and Haeden get their happy endings (if you know what I mean 😉). Overall, a fun and sexy addition to their story.
Even though this is a smutty alien romance, I'm so invested in the world of IPB and the overarching plot. Just when you think the series would end since Josie is the last of the human women . . . something exciting and unexpected happens that will carry us onto the next book. Ruby Dixon knows how to keep things interesting. I can't wait to continue with the series and find out who will be mated next!
Thank you NetGalley for providing an e-ARC copy of this special edition version in exchange for an honest review! As always, all opinions are my own.
Ice Planet Barbarian Books + Ratings
💎 = Favorites
1. Ice Planet Barbarians - 4.5/5 💎
1.5. Ice Planet Honeymoon: Vektal & Georgie - 3/5
2. Barbarian Alien - 4/5
2.5. Ice Planet Honeymoon: Raahosh & Liz - 4/5
3. Barbarian Lover - 5/5 💎
3.5. Ice Planet Honeymoon: Aehako & Kira - 3.5/5
4. Barbarian Mine - 4.5/5 💎
4.5. Ice Planet Honeymoon: Rukh & Harlow - 4.5/5 💎
5. Ice Planet Holiday - 4/5
6. Barbarian’s Prize - 4/5
7. Barbarian’s Mate - 4/5
7.1. Having The Barbarian’s Baby- 3/5
7.2. Ice Ice Babies - 3.5/5
8. Barbarian’s Touch - 4/5
8.5. Calm - 3/5
9. Barbarian’s Taming - 4.5/5 💎
9.5. Aftershocks - 3.5/5
10. Barbarian’s Heart - 4.5/5 💎
11. Barbarian’s Hope - 4/5
12. Barbarian’s Choice - 4.5/5 💎
13. Barbarian’s Redemption - 4/5
14. Barbarian’s Lady - 5/5 💎
15. Barbarian’s Rescue - 3/5
16. Barbarian’s Tease - 3.5/5
16.5. The Barbarian Before Christmas - 3/5
17. Barbarian’s Beloved - 4.5/5 💎
17.5. Barbarian’s Valentine - 3.5/5
18. Barbarian’s Seduction - 4/5
19. Barbarian’s Treasure - 3/5
20. Barbarian’s Bride - 3.5/5
March 19, 2023
Not your average enemies-to-lovers.
In the IPB series, Ruby Dixon asks the question, “What if there was a symbiotic parasite that made characters go absolutely nuts with lust for each other?” And in the first few books, her characters pretty easily accept resonance, even if they are not initially keen on their partner, and eventually fall madly in love. It’s a fun device. However, books 5 and 6 ask the serious question “What if this resonance is unwanted? Where does choice fit in when characters are biologically compelled to be together?” I really respect Dixon for digging into these somber questions as the series progresses, addressing potential gaps and problems with the world-building; it shows depth as an author. I am interested to see how she continues to interrogate resonance in the next books.
Similar to Barbarian’s Prize, this is not a light and fluffy book and confronts abuse and trauma topics. However, like all the IPB books, it is thoughtful and really well executed. Despite the heavy subject matter, Barbarian’s Mate is still addictive, enjoyable, and well worth reading (though I think some people will probably find the plot pacing and characters’ actions really annoying).
***
Leading up to Barbarian’s Mate, Josie and Haeden seem to fight at every opportunity. Haeden acts disapproving, condescending, and overprotective towards Josie. This causes otherwise always happy and optimistic Josie to despise and defy him, believing that Haeden is misogynistic jerk who hates her specifically.
Haeden is a widower amongst the sa-khui. Years ago, he resonated to (meaning “a symbiotic parasite determined that he was biologically compatible with”) a mate but their resonance was notably never consummated before her death. Haeden, understandably, has never gotten over it. What we also learn later is that this pairing was not mutually desired. So, Haeden carries baggage both from his mate’s rejection and her untimely death.
Since her arrival on his planet, Haeden feels drawn to Josie and it terrifies him. The human girls seem so weak and fragile. Haeden finds the idea of becoming emotionally attached to someone so mortal is unbearable. Instead of confronting his fears, he lashes out, acting like a domineering jerk.
Josie is the most cheerful of the abducted Earth girls who crash-landed on the ice planet. Josie and Haeden are very much sunshine/grump energy. Despite surviving abuse and assault – both on Earth and on the alien captors’ ship – Josie trusts that the best is yet to come. She is the last Earth girl to resonate and prays for the day when she will be paired with her perfect mate and have lots of babies. Josie’s dreams of loving abundantly and being loved just as fervently in return.
When Josie finally resonates to Haeden, she could not be more disappointed. Her existing impression of Haeden combined with numerous unfortunate interactions after resonance reinforce Josie’s conviction that Haeden hates her. After everything Josie’s been through, she refuses to ever again be forced into intimacy with someone who hates her or to bring a child into a world where it will not be loved absolutely. So Josie resists resonance. For months. Until ignoring the biological imperative becomes so intense that both Josie and Haeden are weak and physically unwell. Josie finally becomes convinced that removing and replacing their khui (parasite) is the only option—that doing so will untie her from Haeden and allow her to resonate to a new mate. Though he doubts the plan’s success, Haeden agrees to help.
When Haeden resonates to Josie, he is terrified. Once again, Haeden has been given the precious opportunity to have a mate, and she turns out to be—as he perceives it—exceptionally perishable. In spite of his fears, Haeden is actually thrilled by the resonance and ready to embrace Josie as his mate. Unfortunately, he is incredibly awkward with women and severely puts his foot in his mouth every time he talks to Josie. Haeden is heartbroken when Josie rejects him but respects her space, all the while hoping that eventually she will come around. When Josie proposes having their khui surgically removed, Haeden is devastated. Though Josie might find a new mate if her plan works, for Haeden it means losing another mate, the hope of children—losing Josie. Nevertheless, he is willing to give it all up if it means Josie will be happy again.
Josie and Haeden set off for the “Elder’s Cave” where they hope the surgery machine will be able to remove their khui. When it turns out that the surgery machine is broken, rather than giving in to resonance, Josie leaves. Completely abandons the tribe to survive on her own in the wilderness, something none of the other humans have dared to do. And this is when the book truly starts to get interesting. Over the remainder, Josie and Haeden independently confront their past trauma and their perceptions of one another all while facing new “Not-Hoth” dangers.
There are a lot of things I think will bother a lot of people about this book: the miscommunication/lack of communication trope, Josie and Haeden fighting resonance for such a long time (especially in an erotica series), Josie’s fixation on an unfeasible, selfish, and poorly-thought-out plan. But even though these things are annoying, they are also realistic and understandable given the characters’ backgrounds. The hurdles Josie and Haeden have to overcome make their eventual love all the more satisfying.
I love that Dixon’s romances are not (well, not entirely) written just for the characters to have sex. She takes time to develop her characters and unpack their trauma. Moreover, she incorporates choice into a world with predetermined biological mating imperatives. Maybe there could be more active non-relationship/sequel-bait-related drama, but even so the series is totally captivating and consciously designed. Barbarian’s Mate is another great installation 👍👍
In the IPB series, Ruby Dixon asks the question, “What if there was a symbiotic parasite that made characters go absolutely nuts with lust for each other?” And in the first few books, her characters pretty easily accept resonance, even if they are not initially keen on their partner, and eventually fall madly in love. It’s a fun device. However, books 5 and 6 ask the serious question “What if this resonance is unwanted? Where does choice fit in when characters are biologically compelled to be together?” I really respect Dixon for digging into these somber questions as the series progresses, addressing potential gaps and problems with the world-building; it shows depth as an author. I am interested to see how she continues to interrogate resonance in the next books.
Similar to Barbarian’s Prize, this is not a light and fluffy book and confronts abuse and trauma topics. However, like all the IPB books, it is thoughtful and really well executed. Despite the heavy subject matter, Barbarian’s Mate is still addictive, enjoyable, and well worth reading (though I think some people will probably find the plot pacing and characters’ actions really annoying).
***
Leading up to Barbarian’s Mate, Josie and Haeden seem to fight at every opportunity. Haeden acts disapproving, condescending, and overprotective towards Josie. This causes otherwise always happy and optimistic Josie to despise and defy him, believing that Haeden is misogynistic jerk who hates her specifically.
Haeden is a widower amongst the sa-khui. Years ago, he resonated to (meaning “a symbiotic parasite determined that he was biologically compatible with”) a mate but their resonance was notably never consummated before her death. Haeden, understandably, has never gotten over it. What we also learn later is that this pairing was not mutually desired. So, Haeden carries baggage both from his mate’s rejection and her untimely death.
Since her arrival on his planet, Haeden feels drawn to Josie and it terrifies him. The human girls seem so weak and fragile. Haeden finds the idea of becoming emotionally attached to someone so mortal is unbearable. Instead of confronting his fears, he lashes out, acting like a domineering jerk.
Josie is the most cheerful of the abducted Earth girls who crash-landed on the ice planet. Josie and Haeden are very much sunshine/grump energy. Despite surviving abuse and assault – both on Earth and on the alien captors’ ship – Josie trusts that the best is yet to come. She is the last Earth girl to resonate and prays for the day when she will be paired with her perfect mate and have lots of babies. Josie’s dreams of loving abundantly and being loved just as fervently in return.
When Josie finally resonates to Haeden, she could not be more disappointed. Her existing impression of Haeden combined with numerous unfortunate interactions after resonance reinforce Josie’s conviction that Haeden hates her. After everything Josie’s been through, she refuses to ever again be forced into intimacy with someone who hates her or to bring a child into a world where it will not be loved absolutely. So Josie resists resonance. For months. Until ignoring the biological imperative becomes so intense that both Josie and Haeden are weak and physically unwell. Josie finally becomes convinced that removing and replacing their khui (parasite) is the only option—that doing so will untie her from Haeden and allow her to resonate to a new mate. Though he doubts the plan’s success, Haeden agrees to help.
When Haeden resonates to Josie, he is terrified. Once again, Haeden has been given the precious opportunity to have a mate, and she turns out to be—as he perceives it—exceptionally perishable. In spite of his fears, Haeden is actually thrilled by the resonance and ready to embrace Josie as his mate. Unfortunately, he is incredibly awkward with women and severely puts his foot in his mouth every time he talks to Josie. Haeden is heartbroken when Josie rejects him but respects her space, all the while hoping that eventually she will come around. When Josie proposes having their khui surgically removed, Haeden is devastated. Though Josie might find a new mate if her plan works, for Haeden it means losing another mate, the hope of children—losing Josie. Nevertheless, he is willing to give it all up if it means Josie will be happy again.
Josie and Haeden set off for the “Elder’s Cave” where they hope the surgery machine will be able to remove their khui. When it turns out that the surgery machine is broken, rather than giving in to resonance, Josie leaves. Completely abandons the tribe to survive on her own in the wilderness, something none of the other humans have dared to do. And this is when the book truly starts to get interesting. Over the remainder, Josie and Haeden independently confront their past trauma and their perceptions of one another all while facing new “Not-Hoth” dangers.
There are a lot of things I think will bother a lot of people about this book: the miscommunication/lack of communication trope, Josie and Haeden fighting resonance for such a long time (especially in an erotica series), Josie’s fixation on an unfeasible, selfish, and poorly-thought-out plan. But even though these things are annoying, they are also realistic and understandable given the characters’ backgrounds. The hurdles Josie and Haeden have to overcome make their eventual love all the more satisfying.
I love that Dixon’s romances are not (well, not entirely) written just for the characters to have sex. She takes time to develop her characters and unpack their trauma. Moreover, she incorporates choice into a world with predetermined biological mating imperatives. Maybe there could be more active non-relationship/sequel-bait-related drama, but even so the series is totally captivating and consciously designed. Barbarian’s Mate is another great installation 👍👍
Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,211 reviews