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Skyport Virgo #1
Refuge
As a political refugee on twenty-fourth century Earth, Laleh Sarafpour suddenly faces deportation to her hellish home planet because of a ridiculous clerical error. She never expects a chance meeting with Pike Grayson, a deliciously sexy Spacefleet admiral, to drastically change her life. In the span of a night, Pike saves Laleh from her sadistic half-brother sent to haul her back to the nightmare of her past life and offers her a chance to save a marriage of convenience for naturalization papers.From the moment Pike claps eyes on Laleh, he craves the breathtakingly exotic beauty. Pike's desire ignites the second she accepts his proposal, but her innocence in the pleasures of the flesh forces him to practice a little patience. With the gentlest of seductions, Pike introduces Laleh to all the naughty delights to be found in a marriage bed.As they journey across galaxies to Pike’s first command station, the sizzling attraction between the pair proves to be explosive. But when Laleh’s past threatens to catch up with them, Pike risks everything to protect the woman who has managed to so perfectly capture his heart.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2010
13 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Lolita Lopez
65 books1,011 followersWhile browsing bookstore shelves as a teenager, Lo discovered the erotic writings of Anaïs Nin and A.N. Roquelaure. Certain her mother would not approve, Lo smuggled the books home and squirreled them away in the most likely of places: under her bed. Late at night, she delved into the sensual worlds both writers created.
As a co-ed studying biochemistry and genetics at Texas A&M University, Lo dabbled in creating naughty tales to entertain her friends. Study for a midterm or pen a deliciously dirty story to delight her small band of fans? Not surprisingly, Lo is now on an extended sabbatical from college.
Luckily, Lo stumbled onto the world of erotic romance publishers. She realized there were other readers and writers who loved and craved breathtaking romance with the spiciest of love scenes. She took a chance and submitted her first novella. The rest is history.
Lo lives in Texas with her family and beloved Great Dane, Bosley.
As a co-ed studying biochemistry and genetics at Texas A&M University, Lo dabbled in creating naughty tales to entertain her friends. Study for a midterm or pen a deliciously dirty story to delight her small band of fans? Not surprisingly, Lo is now on an extended sabbatical from college.
Luckily, Lo stumbled onto the world of erotic romance publishers. She realized there were other readers and writers who loved and craved breathtaking romance with the spiciest of love scenes. She took a chance and submitted her first novella. The rest is history.
Lo lives in Texas with her family and beloved Great Dane, Bosley.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 11, 2014
Enjoyed this book a lot. Tempted to re-read it. Excellent heroine!
Educated, level headed, doesn't beg, grovel or put up with much crap.
Hero was enjoyable too. Although he does perform a little douchebaggery, he's very apologetic and sincerely feels like a cad afterwards. Somewhat typical male ego, but not extreme.
Sex scenes were good (Hey - it's Lolita Lopez writing this) but not too frequent or overdone.
Great villain/tension. I kept waiting for Jai to pop out through many scenes....and didn't see it coming when he did.
HEA, Recommended
Educated, level headed, doesn't beg, grovel or put up with much crap.
Hero was enjoyable too. Although he does perform a little douchebaggery, he's very apologetic and sincerely feels like a cad afterwards. Somewhat typical male ego, but not extreme.
Sex scenes were good (Hey - it's Lolita Lopez writing this) but not too frequent or overdone.
Great villain/tension. I kept waiting for Jai to pop out through many scenes....and didn't see it coming when he did.
HEA, Recommended
July 18, 2014
This had everything I was looking for at the time of reading; sci-fi theme, romance and some hot, dirty sex. Added bonus was the writing was good and the plot, decent enough.
Quick Rundown: Chick who was born royalty on an extremely abusive planet is about to be deported from Earth where her recently deceased mother had taken refuge when Chick was 6. Chick conveniently meets up with Dude who is Admiral of a space ship that's headed to a huge skyport months away from Earth. This highly educated though very poor Chick faces threat of family (want her back on abusive planet) as well as deportation so he solves this problem by marriage. InstaLust (not InstaLove) explodes and great things happen in the bedroom. The couple grow to deep love and have to fight off the Big Bad in the end after lots of good and dirty sex.
Like I said, this hit the spot (no pun intended). Yes, there are holes in the plot, it was predictable, cliche'd and low on action BUT the characters were somewhat unique and believable. I really liked how Laleh was so educated and how she got a job straight away and wasn't the typical housewife. And I liked that he wasn't the typical Alpha who tried to control her. They both put forth effort to make the marriage work and had realistic issues dealt with. She didn't whine nor bitch. He didn't ignore or suppress feelings. The author didn't just put a trust between these two, she grew it. So that was worth a star for me in the end. Oh, and some hot dirty sex.
World building was sufficient. There's no interplanetary travel. They go from a futuristic Austin Texas to a spaceship to a skyport so there wasn't much world building to do. Secondary characters were vague and uninteresting but they weren't really needed for the plot. Unlike other reviewers, there was not too much sex- one was not beat over the head with it but let's be honest, the main reason why we read this genre is for the sex which was both sweet and loving and good and dirty.
Overall, a good read read when you want to escape with something that's not thought provoking.
-Spuffed, "Half stars are for pansies and one gif is plenty"
Quick Rundown: Chick who was born royalty on an extremely abusive planet is about to be deported from Earth where her recently deceased mother had taken refuge when Chick was 6. Chick conveniently meets up with Dude who is Admiral of a space ship that's headed to a huge skyport months away from Earth. This highly educated though very poor Chick faces threat of family (want her back on abusive planet) as well as deportation so he solves this problem by marriage. InstaLust (not InstaLove) explodes and great things happen in the bedroom. The couple grow to deep love and have to fight off the Big Bad in the end after lots of good and dirty sex.
Like I said, this hit the spot (no pun intended). Yes, there are holes in the plot, it was predictable, cliche'd and low on action BUT the characters were somewhat unique and believable. I really liked how Laleh was so educated and how she got a job straight away and wasn't the typical housewife. And I liked that he wasn't the typical Alpha who tried to control her. They both put forth effort to make the marriage work and had realistic issues dealt with. She didn't whine nor bitch. He didn't ignore or suppress feelings. The author didn't just put a trust between these two, she grew it. So that was worth a star for me in the end. Oh, and some hot dirty sex.
World building was sufficient. There's no interplanetary travel. They go from a futuristic Austin Texas to a spaceship to a skyport so there wasn't much world building to do. Secondary characters were vague and uninteresting but they weren't really needed for the plot. Unlike other reviewers, there was not too much sex- one was not beat over the head with it but let's be honest, the main reason why we read this genre is for the sex which was both sweet and loving and good and dirty.
Overall, a good read read when you want to escape with something that's not thought provoking.
-Spuffed, "Half stars are for pansies and one gif is plenty"
November 6, 2014
Hot but not a lot of depth
I'd say this was a solid 3.5 star book. I was in the mood for a steamy sci-fi type romance, and this did the trick. Granted the plot was pretty cliché, and the characters nor plot had much depth, but it still managed to be enjoyable. It also had insta-love, and a book virgin which are usually total deal breakers for me but this wasn’t done to an overkill. It was a nice quick read with a good amount of steam.
I'd say this was a solid 3.5 star book. I was in the mood for a steamy sci-fi type romance, and this did the trick. Granted the plot was pretty cliché, and the characters nor plot had much depth, but it still managed to be enjoyable. It also had insta-love, and a book virgin which are usually total deal breakers for me but this wasn’t done to an overkill. It was a nice quick read with a good amount of steam.
October 8, 2013
Not much of a story but for pure smut with some romance, it was perfect.
January 7, 2016
I actually enjoyed this one a lot more than I thought I was. I really liked it!
Her non Russian Protector World (I say world, because that includes the Connelly Brothers and the Albanians) tend to be.. not necessarily misses, but not hits like the aforementioned series. - To be fair, I haven't read her SERIES under this name very much. Just the short kinky ones. So the Dragons might be a different story all together.
The only thing that really bugged me at all? Once again it was set in Houston.
Really, even in the sci fi future, all of her novels have to have Houston be a part of it? There are other cities ya know?
It didn't really bother me that much, but it was just one of those slight eye rolling moments. We get it, you like Houston. (I was born there. I don't even like it as much as she apparently does.)
I didn't dislike Lelah.
I liked Pike. The only time I didn't like him was when he basically switched personalities
Quinn.. was likable. I'd like to see more of his story.
One thing I did like, was how relationships weren't just m/f. There were couples of all kinds, and the f/f relationship of some of the side characters was completely nonplussed and normal. There was no big deal made about it at all, it just was. They were happily married and that was that.
One thing that amused me.. I don't know if the author did it on purpose or not, but I found connections.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the movie? Main male character was named Pike.
Pike was replaced in the TV show by Angel. Who was played by David Boreanaz.
Boreanaz was one of the names that popped up in this book.
Also, within the same paragraph as Boreanaz? Brennan.
Hmm.. what is David B currently in? Bones, Where the main character is Temperance Brennan.
Coincidence? Probably. But it amused me.
I am actually a bit sad that this appears to be a one off. I am going under the impression of that since it was written 5 years ago with no hint of a sequel. The Russians have taken over her writing life. And that's okay, I like the Russians.
Her non Russian Protector World (I say world, because that includes the Connelly Brothers and the Albanians) tend to be.. not necessarily misses, but not hits like the aforementioned series. - To be fair, I haven't read her SERIES under this name very much. Just the short kinky ones. So the Dragons might be a different story all together.
The only thing that really bugged me at all? Once again it was set in Houston.
Really, even in the sci fi future, all of her novels have to have Houston be a part of it? There are other cities ya know?
It didn't really bother me that much, but it was just one of those slight eye rolling moments. We get it, you like Houston. (I was born there. I don't even like it as much as she apparently does.)
I didn't dislike Lelah.
I liked Pike. The only time I didn't like him was when he basically switched personalities
Quinn.. was likable. I'd like to see more of his story.
One thing I did like, was how relationships weren't just m/f. There were couples of all kinds, and the f/f relationship of some of the side characters was completely nonplussed and normal. There was no big deal made about it at all, it just was. They were happily married and that was that.
One thing that amused me.. I don't know if the author did it on purpose or not, but I found connections.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the movie? Main male character was named Pike.
Pike was replaced in the TV show by Angel. Who was played by David Boreanaz.
Boreanaz was one of the names that popped up in this book.
Also, within the same paragraph as Boreanaz? Brennan.
Hmm.. what is David B currently in? Bones, Where the main character is Temperance Brennan.
Coincidence? Probably. But it amused me.
I am actually a bit sad that this appears to be a one off. I am going under the impression of that since it was written 5 years ago with no hint of a sequel. The Russians have taken over her writing life. And that's okay, I like the Russians.
April 25, 2013
This was a good book. Pike is a newly appointed admiral of a star ship for the Space Fleet. Ahh yes, a yummy guy in uniform. Pike meets the heroine Laleh (how the heck do you pronounce that???)at a bar and he ends up rescuing her from her brother Jai as he beats her and attempts to kidnap her to take her back to there home planet. Laleh's brother was able to find her because she was placed on a deportation list due to a clerical error. Pike ends up marrying Laleh to save her from deportation because her home planet treats women horribly and he can't stand to see her sent back. Of course her brother Jai takes it as a personal insult to the family that she marries an outsider without permission. In his culture to assuage family dishonor Laleh must be killed for her offense. So now Jai is out to get Laleh. I like that Laleh and Pike are not perfect and they take their time to develop a relationship before things really get rolling. I also like that Laleh is so smart and has her doctorate degree. She really is an interesting character. This is the second book I have read by Lolita Lopez and I enjoyed it. My only disappointment is that there is no sequel out yet for this series. Hopefully one will be published soon.
July 18, 2016
I really liked this - both characters have flaws but who doesn't?
I like the way they have problems - Pike can be kind of a dick, but they work it out rather then letting it fester and there is no long, drawn out mis-communication or deception that occurs so much in lots of romance tales.
There's plenty of sexy times, though to be honest, they didn't do much for me. They weren't awful though.
The world building was fine, would have liked a little more imagination to be honest. Space travel is common place but Laleh likes orange soda and chocolate-pecan cheesecake? A universe of things to eat and drink and she still prefers orange soda and cheesecake? Seemed kind of silly to me.
Also, Laleh is an alien, from a completely different planet but there's no mention of any real physical difference. Does she just look like a human? I also had some trouble pronouncing her name in my head. I read it as Lar-Leh - but I did wonder if it's supposed to be Leila, but if so - why the weird spelling?
All in all a good read!
I like the way they have problems - Pike can be kind of a dick, but they work it out rather then letting it fester and there is no long, drawn out mis-communication or deception that occurs so much in lots of romance tales.
There's plenty of sexy times, though to be honest, they didn't do much for me. They weren't awful though.
The world building was fine, would have liked a little more imagination to be honest. Space travel is common place but Laleh likes orange soda and chocolate-pecan cheesecake? A universe of things to eat and drink and she still prefers orange soda and cheesecake? Seemed kind of silly to me.
Also, Laleh is an alien, from a completely different planet but there's no mention of any real physical difference. Does she just look like a human? I also had some trouble pronouncing her name in my head. I read it as Lar-Leh - but I did wonder if it's supposed to be Leila, but if so - why the weird spelling?
All in all a good read!
September 7, 2013
Refuge by Lolita Lopez is her first book in her Skyport Virgo series. Refuge is a futuristic romance.
Refuge features Laleh Sarafpour, a refuge on Earth hiding out from her extremely abusive father and brother. Laleh's mother escaped with Laleh from their home planet years ago and have taking refuge on Earth. Laleh is now along with her mom having recently died from an "accident." Laleh is set to be deported when Pike Grayson, a Spacefleet admiral steps in and offers a marriage of convenience. The marriage of convenience turns into much more but Laleh's family is determined to destroy her happiness.
I enjoyed this romance with a bit of intrigue. Laleh and Pike were likable characters. Life on the skyport was interesting to read about and the drama wasn't too over the top, very enjoyable. I highly recommend!
Refuge features Laleh Sarafpour, a refuge on Earth hiding out from her extremely abusive father and brother. Laleh's mother escaped with Laleh from their home planet years ago and have taking refuge on Earth. Laleh is now along with her mom having recently died from an "accident." Laleh is set to be deported when Pike Grayson, a Spacefleet admiral steps in and offers a marriage of convenience. The marriage of convenience turns into much more but Laleh's family is determined to destroy her happiness.
I enjoyed this romance with a bit of intrigue. Laleh and Pike were likable characters. Life on the skyport was interesting to read about and the drama wasn't too over the top, very enjoyable. I highly recommend!
January 12, 2016
Laleh had a veneer of depth, but man, Pike was just like, dick words and actual dick moves. He was no substance.
And that my friends means that I was bored to tears of the sex! It felt awkward and fake, and weird, and just no. I found myself skimming past every scene just to get to the plot.
Actually now in chapter one, I wonder why I'm even skimming for the plot? Why am I finishing this book?
No idea, but I will regret it. I can sense it.
Nope, I definitely regret it. The cheese factory ended with a true Harlequin ending.
I guess the Grab series is like the only Lolita Lopez thing I like? And since the issues with Ellora's Cave, well, I guess I ain't getting that. Well, c'est la vie, there are more books to come.
And that my friends means that I was bored to tears of the sex! It felt awkward and fake, and weird, and just no. I found myself skimming past every scene just to get to the plot.
Actually now in chapter one, I wonder why I'm even skimming for the plot? Why am I finishing this book?
No idea, but I will regret it. I can sense it.
Nope, I definitely regret it. The cheese factory ended with a true Harlequin ending.
I guess the Grab series is like the only Lolita Lopez thing I like? And since the issues with Ellora's Cave, well, I guess I ain't getting that. Well, c'est la vie, there are more books to come.
April 26, 2017
What I hoped for: An female alien male human sci-fi romance with steamy scenes.
What this book is: For at least 2/3 of the book we might as well be in a contemporary setting for there is nothing that feels even remotely alien about the girl, or the situations.
The sci-fi elements in the story is very light, almost non-existent... the story could have just as easily been about a girl from a middle-eastern kingdom and a navy officer.
Don't get me wrong, it's readable al right, it's just not what I expected.
What this book is: For at least 2/3 of the book we might as well be in a contemporary setting for there is nothing that feels even remotely alien about the girl, or the situations.
The sci-fi elements in the story is very light, almost non-existent... the story could have just as easily been about a girl from a middle-eastern kingdom and a navy officer.
Don't get me wrong, it's readable al right, it's just not what I expected.
January 23, 2014
I am probably being hard on this book, there was a lot of sex and I don't think that was what I was looking for out of it. I liked the beginning and after skimming some excessive "interactions" I even got into the big rescue scene. But I was hoping for sexy aliens and instead got a whole lot of foreplay and intercourse. I find less is more. It's not really this books fault. But I was disappointed. If all I wanted was erotica I wouldn't have bothered with the Sci Fi aspect.
November 5, 2014
Character development was very lacking. Extremely weak world-building in terms of being sci-fi. There is lots of sex in the book, so much so, that it became repetitive and skim-worthy. There is little plot outside of the sex. The main characters got together and fell in love very early in the book, and the romance was boring. I deducted a star for the oops pregnancy at the very end of the book. It was so cliche!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2014
Science fiction, romance and alpha man with strong woman, love, love, love. I enjoy Lolita Lopez writing style, she can write words that can make a reader hot, hot, hot. The best part she can write with a terrific plot twist and a happy ending. What more a girl can want on a cold, snowy night nothing else, but the book Refuge and maybe Pizza and Pepsi.
April 28, 2016
Yet another book in a genre that I don't normally find appealing... but has completely bowled me over and left me panting for more!
I'm convinced that it's Ms. Lopez' exceptional story telling skillz that have me hooked!
I'm convinced that it's Ms. Lopez' exceptional story telling skillz that have me hooked!
May 20, 2013
I enjoyed this. Reminded me a bit of Vicious. But Pike is not Vicious. Pike and Laleh are their own people.
August 18, 2013
Too much sex but had a good plot idea.
August 23, 2015
2.5*, rounded to 3.
Just so-so. Not too bad, but not a favourite either. Mostly forgettable characters and plot.
Just so-so. Not too bad, but not a favourite either. Mostly forgettable characters and plot.
June 20, 2016
there was a core of a story that wasn't bad but... *shakes head*
October 2, 2016
Wow,made me blush...even at my age . Definitely for grownup.
May 7, 2015
My favorite lolita lopez book
You had me at the Margaret Atwood reference. This is a well-rounded sci fi romance, where the characters aren't perfect, and character development is well thought out and charming. I bought this book originally on my nook, but had to get another copy for my kindle. Yes, it is that good. It is intelligent, characters are likable, and characters don't get confusing. I can't wait until more books are released in this series.
You had me at the Margaret Atwood reference. This is a well-rounded sci fi romance, where the characters aren't perfect, and character development is well thought out and charming. I bought this book originally on my nook, but had to get another copy for my kindle. Yes, it is that good. It is intelligent, characters are likable, and characters don't get confusing. I can't wait until more books are released in this series.
September 16, 2015
Excellent job. Really enjoyed how descriptive this author is. Well written and truly terrific to read. If you enjoy reading sci-fi and romance then you will love this one. I hope there is another in this series.
October 10, 2015
The sex was sizzling hot. Of course after getting married knowing each other a day there are bound to be a bunch of misunderstandings, but they were fun and the reader could see these two form a real relationship. It was topped off with a dash of suspense too. My kind of entertainment - 5 stars!
November 8, 2019
Well it was written in 2010 and I’m still waiting on a sequel......safe to say it isn’t coming?
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews