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Curizan Warriors #1
Ha'ven's Song
Ha’ven Ha’darra is the Crown Prince for the Curizans, an advanced species known for their technology. They may not have the power to shift like the Valdier or the Sarafin but they have hidden powers of their own that they guard. Not even his best friends, Creon Reykill of the Valdier or Vox d’Rojah of the Sarafin, are aware of the powers he holds within his deadly frame.
Ha’ven is happy to help out his Valdier friend when he calls. There are only two things that satisfy the restlessness inside him – a good fight and an even better evening with a hot, willing female. He has no desire to settle down like his two friends have. He enjoys having his freedom and the wide sample of females at his disposal.
All of that changes when he catches a glimpse of the delicate beauty who looks through him as if he doesn’t even exist. His blood calls to her, his magic aches to meld with hers, but she blocks his every advance.
Emma Watson’s life was perfect. Her love for music and dance let her escape the overwhelming shyness that she suffered from all her life. When she is invited to travel with a group to promote music and dance for children in South America, she believes it is the perfect chance to discover who she can really be. Everything changes when she is kidnapped by a powerful drug lord. Beaten and forced to watch the torture of other women, she withdrawals into the world she feels safest – the one inside herself.
When she is rescued by creatures not of this world, they heal her physical wounds but cannot touch the ones deep inside her. She has given up on ever returning to her world and has little hope for the future. That is why she does not understand why one aggravating male suddenly won’t leave her alone. She wants nothing to do with men! They cause nothing but heartache and pain. She had been on the receiving end of their fists to know that! Why would she want one that could crush her with one hand?
No woman has ever turned Ha’ven Ha’darra down and he isn’t about to accept his mate doing it. He will show her that not all men are the same, even if he has to kidnap her and take her to his world to do it. He plans to show her the power she has hidden deep inside her and open her heart to the love he has in his.
Now, he just has a few extra problems to overcome. Her Valdier protectors have given him six months to change her mind about wanting to return to them, a traitor is trying to kill them both, and they have crashed on a remote moon.
Can he unlock her magic in time to save their love or will the traitor, determined to kill them, destroy her before he can?
Ha’ven is happy to help out his Valdier friend when he calls. There are only two things that satisfy the restlessness inside him – a good fight and an even better evening with a hot, willing female. He has no desire to settle down like his two friends have. He enjoys having his freedom and the wide sample of females at his disposal.
All of that changes when he catches a glimpse of the delicate beauty who looks through him as if he doesn’t even exist. His blood calls to her, his magic aches to meld with hers, but she blocks his every advance.
Emma Watson’s life was perfect. Her love for music and dance let her escape the overwhelming shyness that she suffered from all her life. When she is invited to travel with a group to promote music and dance for children in South America, she believes it is the perfect chance to discover who she can really be. Everything changes when she is kidnapped by a powerful drug lord. Beaten and forced to watch the torture of other women, she withdrawals into the world she feels safest – the one inside herself.
When she is rescued by creatures not of this world, they heal her physical wounds but cannot touch the ones deep inside her. She has given up on ever returning to her world and has little hope for the future. That is why she does not understand why one aggravating male suddenly won’t leave her alone. She wants nothing to do with men! They cause nothing but heartache and pain. She had been on the receiving end of their fists to know that! Why would she want one that could crush her with one hand?
No woman has ever turned Ha’ven Ha’darra down and he isn’t about to accept his mate doing it. He will show her that not all men are the same, even if he has to kidnap her and take her to his world to do it. He plans to show her the power she has hidden deep inside her and open her heart to the love he has in his.
Now, he just has a few extra problems to overcome. Her Valdier protectors have given him six months to change her mind about wanting to return to them, a traitor is trying to kill them both, and they have crashed on a remote moon.
Can he unlock her magic in time to save their love or will the traitor, determined to kill them, destroy her before he can?
244 pages, Paperback
First published November 18, 2013
228 people are currently reading
1588 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Smith
259 books2,580 followersS.E. Smith is an internationally acclaimed, New York Times and USA TODAY Bestselling author of science fiction, romance, fantasy, paranormal, and contemporary works for adults, young adults, and children. She enjoys writing a wide variety of genres that pull her readers into worlds that take them away.
Readers can check out her website at https://sesmithfl.com and chat with her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/se.smith.5
Readers can check out her website at https://sesmithfl.com and chat with her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/se.smith.5
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
November 22, 2013
Emma Watson is a broken shell. The Valdiers may have rescued her along with Sara and healed her physical injuries but the mental damage is severe and Emma fades away day by day. Nothing they or her fellow Earth friends do or say can help reverse what's occurring and it's feared Emma isn't long for this world if something drastic isn't done.
Crown Prince Ha’ven Ha’darra has watched in horror as one by one his friends mate with the Earth women. The ruthless warriors of old have turned into weaklings who fear their mate's wrath and go out of their way to keep them happy and content. Ha'ven feels dark magic is at work and distances himself from the women lest he become a victim himself. He's successful until he sights Emma. The sparks are instantaneous and Ha'ven realizes that at long last he's found his own mate. What a shame she doesn't feel the same and makes it well known that she wants nothing to do with him. As she's under the protection of the Valdier royal family his options are limited. Respect her wishes or kidnap her and reveal his own magical powers. Of course that's assuming he survives once the Valdiers get ahold of him for kidnapping Emma.
In this spin off series first installment from the Dragon Lords Of Valdier, Ha’ven Ha’darra, who has been cameoed previously, meets his mate. The signature strong independent female meets alpha male formula is still at work which provides oodles and oodles of fun. The one caveat is that at the beginning of this story Emma is featured as an abuse survivor who's basically given up on life. Did I enjoy the way Ha'ven cracked her shell? Yes and no. It WAS painful to read her journey of recovery (which was condensed as this is a book with limited ability to showcase this) but extreme measures were required and Ha'ven had her best interests at heart to help her. Yet in true S.E. Smith fashion, the heroine becomes the hero thus finding her own inner strength along with a mate who will be by her side through thick and thin. (I've actually included vague references to key parts of the story without giving away spoilers here)
As for the erotic romance scenes. I was on the fence whether I felt less erotica and more action/adventure or if the adult content scenes complimented the overall story line to the point I felt it was a natural extension of events. I really haven't decided and think I'll have to re-read this book shortly before the next installment paying more attention to that premise.
I do have to comment that I really appreciated the sci-fi elements and how they were worked in. It had a sort of 'Star Wars' feel as the technological and cultural elements went in this direction. Ha'ven is my Han Solo who wants to do the right and honorable thing but has baggage issues and a mysterious past. I'm a sucker for that series and that character. :D
Other than a few grammer/spelling/editorial issues I enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next which was teased in the last couple of pages so I know it will be Adalard. Let the stalking begin.
Crown Prince Ha’ven Ha’darra has watched in horror as one by one his friends mate with the Earth women. The ruthless warriors of old have turned into weaklings who fear their mate's wrath and go out of their way to keep them happy and content. Ha'ven feels dark magic is at work and distances himself from the women lest he become a victim himself. He's successful until he sights Emma. The sparks are instantaneous and Ha'ven realizes that at long last he's found his own mate. What a shame she doesn't feel the same and makes it well known that she wants nothing to do with him. As she's under the protection of the Valdier royal family his options are limited. Respect her wishes or kidnap her and reveal his own magical powers. Of course that's assuming he survives once the Valdiers get ahold of him for kidnapping Emma.
In this spin off series first installment from the Dragon Lords Of Valdier, Ha’ven Ha’darra, who has been cameoed previously, meets his mate. The signature strong independent female meets alpha male formula is still at work which provides oodles and oodles of fun. The one caveat is that at the beginning of this story Emma is featured as an abuse survivor who's basically given up on life. Did I enjoy the way Ha'ven cracked her shell? Yes and no. It WAS painful to read her journey of recovery (which was condensed as this is a book with limited ability to showcase this) but extreme measures were required and Ha'ven had her best interests at heart to help her. Yet in true S.E. Smith fashion, the heroine becomes the hero thus finding her own inner strength along with a mate who will be by her side through thick and thin. (I've actually included vague references to key parts of the story without giving away spoilers here)
As for the erotic romance scenes. I was on the fence whether I felt less erotica and more action/adventure or if the adult content scenes complimented the overall story line to the point I felt it was a natural extension of events. I really haven't decided and think I'll have to re-read this book shortly before the next installment paying more attention to that premise.
I do have to comment that I really appreciated the sci-fi elements and how they were worked in. It had a sort of 'Star Wars' feel as the technological and cultural elements went in this direction. Ha'ven is my Han Solo who wants to do the right and honorable thing but has baggage issues and a mysterious past. I'm a sucker for that series and that character. :D
Other than a few grammer/spelling/editorial issues I enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next which was teased in the last couple of pages so I know it will be Adalard. Let the stalking begin.
February 8, 2018
Loved it.
I wish Ha'ven and Emma's mysterious powers were explained though. It was all just left in air... I liked Arrow's inquisitiveness a lot! I wish we can get Adalard's book soon.
I wish Ha'ven and Emma's mysterious powers were explained though. It was all just left in air... I liked Arrow's inquisitiveness a lot! I wish we can get Adalard's book soon.
January 11, 2017
Emma and Ha'ven... BooooooooRing
Sometimes this author is so predictable I don't know why I bother finishing the book. Plus her Heroes and evil villains keep getting more OTT. H'aven is practically god-like in his powers and to be honest, that kinda of omnipotence is just dull.
There's a lot of info dumping, tediously long sex scenes, a Goddess who shows up just in the nick of time once or twice, and an OTT bad guy who keeps popping up like a jack-in-the-box.
Emma was rescued from an some evil guy in previous book and has retreated into herself, becoming mute. Ha'ven's powers have become dangerous and he fears he will have to kill himself or risk destroying the entire planet... I kid you not, the whole frickin' planet, (roll my eyes).
Of course Ha'ven is a ladies man and determined to stay single until one whiff of his mate, Emma and then it's like he's a different person. Emma is not interested and leads him a merry dance. This was entertaining until she caves and then the book was just blah blah, Blah, blah-blah, blaHHHH and more blah.
I actually DNFed at 99%
The reader for the audio book, P. J. Ochlan was fantastic!!!
Sometimes this author is so predictable I don't know why I bother finishing the book. Plus her Heroes and evil villains keep getting more OTT. H'aven is practically god-like in his powers and to be honest, that kinda of omnipotence is just dull.
There's a lot of info dumping, tediously long sex scenes, a Goddess who shows up just in the nick of time once or twice, and an OTT bad guy who keeps popping up like a jack-in-the-box.
Emma was rescued from an some evil guy in previous book and has retreated into herself, becoming mute. Ha'ven's powers have become dangerous and he fears he will have to kill himself or risk destroying the entire planet... I kid you not, the whole frickin' planet, (roll my eyes).
Of course Ha'ven is a ladies man and determined to stay single until one whiff of his mate, Emma and then it's like he's a different person. Emma is not interested and leads him a merry dance. This was entertaining until she caves and then the book was just blah blah, Blah, blah-blah, blaHHHH and more blah.
I actually DNFed at 99%
The reader for the audio book, P. J. Ochlan was fantastic!!!
January 3, 2017
So to begin with - it felt like I started somewhere in the middle of the series (maybe I did?..). Stories that have been told about previous adventures sounded a lot more interesting. Actually, in the beginning this book had a huge potential, at least that's what I think now. Then it became only "bearable" as nothing happened. The "love story" made me furious and I actually skipped a few pages just to not get annoyed (even though it was too late).
I found Emma somewhat pathetic and though I understand how much she suffered and what she went through, her character's "development"(if it could be called so) was just ridiculous. I needed something more, something deeper, something more convincing. When things finally got bad and I hoped for some action... I was only left annoyed and frustrated. The ending was okay, but it didn't change my disappointment.
I found Emma somewhat pathetic and though I understand how much she suffered and what she went through, her character's "development"(if it could be called so) was just ridiculous. I needed something more, something deeper, something more convincing. When things finally got bad and I hoped for some action... I was only left annoyed and frustrated. The ending was okay, but it didn't change my disappointment.
November 27, 2013
Once again, really worth the wait!!
I live Ha'ven, how he went from wanting nothing to do with love and Earth women to the big alpha male pursuing and protecting his mate.
His magic and darkness were very interesting. We finally got to know more about the Curizan and their ability. I would have like to read more about their planet and culture!! In the next book hopefully.
As for Emma, she came from very far and became a great character. You cannot help but feel deeply for her and what she has been through. But despite all of it, she grows stronger after every events. Could have been a bit more developed and longer evolution but it still worked. But she is not as head strong as the usual heroin. A bit sad I think but maybe the change was needed to add diversity.
I loved the ending of the book. There is going to be a hell to pay for Adalar I think. Can't wait to read it!!
I live Ha'ven, how he went from wanting nothing to do with love and Earth women to the big alpha male pursuing and protecting his mate.
His magic and darkness were very interesting. We finally got to know more about the Curizan and their ability. I would have like to read more about their planet and culture!! In the next book hopefully.
As for Emma, she came from very far and became a great character. You cannot help but feel deeply for her and what she has been through. But despite all of it, she grows stronger after every events. Could have been a bit more developed and longer evolution but it still worked. But she is not as head strong as the usual heroin. A bit sad I think but maybe the change was needed to add diversity.
I loved the ending of the book. There is going to be a hell to pay for Adalar I think. Can't wait to read it!!
November 22, 2013
A good continuation of the plot. Thought Emma could have used more development. Enjoyed the sparks between them. Looking forward to reading the twins stories and let us not forget the tempting thread that there may be a Monikers series too
December 31, 2020
I have to say that Ms. Smith is one of my favorite authors and with this book it is no different. Loved it great start to the seies and a must series to continue.
November 22, 2013
I had high hopes for "Ha'ven's Song." I'd read "Choosing Riley" and enjoyed it.
Unfortunately, I was seriously underwhelmed. Neither the story nor the characters ever really came alive for me. Emma has survived terrible trauma, and has withdrawn into herself. Ha'ven similarly has withdrawn from his friends and family because he's loosing control of his energy. So the story should work well as they recover together, but it never really gets off the ground for me. Maybe because of the whole 'energy' thing -- constantly swirling around, acting on the characters, but never really explained.
Especially Emmma's special energy powers. It's central to the story, but Smith never tells us how or why Emma has this power. Emma is supposed to be human, so how did she acquire the power? Or, does she only have the power because it's a response to Ha'ven's? Otherwise it becomes a magician's trick that allows Emma's character to have a "get out of jail free" card when she's in a tight spot.
So...only 2 stars.
Unfortunately, I was seriously underwhelmed. Neither the story nor the characters ever really came alive for me. Emma has survived terrible trauma, and has withdrawn into herself. Ha'ven similarly has withdrawn from his friends and family because he's loosing control of his energy. So the story should work well as they recover together, but it never really gets off the ground for me. Maybe because of the whole 'energy' thing -- constantly swirling around, acting on the characters, but never really explained.
Especially Emmma's special energy powers. It's central to the story, but Smith never tells us how or why Emma has this power. Emma is supposed to be human, so how did she acquire the power? Or, does she only have the power because it's a response to Ha'ven's? Otherwise it becomes a magician's trick that allows Emma's character to have a "get out of jail free" card when she's in a tight spot.
So...only 2 stars.
September 3, 2015
It was okay, not exactly as action pact or as adventuress as I'd like. Also, every everytime he referred to his mate as "my Emma" it made me cringe, ick!
December 17, 2017
My face while reading this book.....
December 2, 2013
S.E. Smith's enthralling "Dragon Lords of Valdier" series seamlessly segues into her latest series with Ha'ven's Song, the first of the "Curizan Warrior" tales.
Rescued from a drug lord torturing women, Emma Watson's physical injuries are healed by her alien rescuers' advanced knowledge, but her mental wounds are beyond their reach. A gifted singer and dancer, she suffers great post-traumatic stress. She resists facing her ordeal so much she can no longer speak and limits her physical contact with other people, especially men.
Ha'ven Ha'darra, Crown Prince of the Curizan (an advanced race famous for their technology), also recently suffered extended torture at the hands of an enemy. Although able to draw on the energies around him to link with Curizan tech as most of his species does (in a variety of ways and strength levels), Ha'ven's "magical" talents are exponentially increasing as a result of the torture. He fears it will soon exceed his ability to control it and lead to devastating consequences for his world.
Looking for a mate is definitely not his priority, but when Ha'ven encounters Emma, he can't deny his fate. Unfortunately, she shuns him although a mental link forms between them, and she seems to anchor his power. Adding to the dilemma, her Valdier protectors will only allow him six months to convince her to stay with him, and he's already endangered her life simply because traitors to the throne are trying to kill both of them...
Ha'ven's Song is the beautiful love story of a man wooing his mate with words and actions-their physical passion unfolds achingly slowly-while fighting desperately to protect their lives. As always, S.E. Smith delivers her signature action-packed paranormal romance without the dreaded "cookie-cutterness" of some serial writing. And like other favorite authors, I both love her and hate her because she wrote a fantastic new book which I've finished and now have to wait for the next one!
Rescued from a drug lord torturing women, Emma Watson's physical injuries are healed by her alien rescuers' advanced knowledge, but her mental wounds are beyond their reach. A gifted singer and dancer, she suffers great post-traumatic stress. She resists facing her ordeal so much she can no longer speak and limits her physical contact with other people, especially men.
Ha'ven Ha'darra, Crown Prince of the Curizan (an advanced race famous for their technology), also recently suffered extended torture at the hands of an enemy. Although able to draw on the energies around him to link with Curizan tech as most of his species does (in a variety of ways and strength levels), Ha'ven's "magical" talents are exponentially increasing as a result of the torture. He fears it will soon exceed his ability to control it and lead to devastating consequences for his world.
Looking for a mate is definitely not his priority, but when Ha'ven encounters Emma, he can't deny his fate. Unfortunately, she shuns him although a mental link forms between them, and she seems to anchor his power. Adding to the dilemma, her Valdier protectors will only allow him six months to convince her to stay with him, and he's already endangered her life simply because traitors to the throne are trying to kill both of them...
Ha'ven's Song is the beautiful love story of a man wooing his mate with words and actions-their physical passion unfolds achingly slowly-while fighting desperately to protect their lives. As always, S.E. Smith delivers her signature action-packed paranormal romance without the dreaded "cookie-cutterness" of some serial writing. And like other favorite authors, I both love her and hate her because she wrote a fantastic new book which I've finished and now have to wait for the next one!
November 22, 2013
I don't know how SE Smith does it but every single time I finish a book in one of her series, I want the next one. SES creates diverse and interesting worlds filled with alpha men totally devoted to their ladies and children.
This book is a new series but still connected to our Dragon Lords and Sarafin Warriors. We follow Emma, who first appears in Carmen's book and learn her story and travel the road to her recovery and finding her mate and coming in to her own. I like how SES gave the Curizan subtle powers that worked with their superior technology that they create. They were a new mix to the shifters who have appeared thus far and still work in with those characters well.
If you are new to this SES, whilst this book may stand alone, a lot of the scenes will be more enjoyable with their back stories, so don't start here.
I found this to be an easy, entertaining read that I enjoyed. This story was finalised but there was a small teaser for the next book and I'm already looking forward to it.
This book is a new series but still connected to our Dragon Lords and Sarafin Warriors. We follow Emma, who first appears in Carmen's book and learn her story and travel the road to her recovery and finding her mate and coming in to her own. I like how SES gave the Curizan subtle powers that worked with their superior technology that they create. They were a new mix to the shifters who have appeared thus far and still work in with those characters well.
If you are new to this SES, whilst this book may stand alone, a lot of the scenes will be more enjoyable with their back stories, so don't start here.
I found this to be an easy, entertaining read that I enjoyed. This story was finalised but there was a small teaser for the next book and I'm already looking forward to it.
August 4, 2017
S.E. Smith does it again! I stumbled across this author by accident and within three months had read every book she had written. I am a die hard fan of Ms. Smith.
is a delightful example of her work. Ha'ven is a wonderful character who finds himself in the same position that his friends were in, in love with a human female and completely clueless as to what to do. Emma has been hurt and just wants to disappear but Ha'ven makes her feel again. There are twists, turns, danger, and laughter as the two make their way to each other. All in all a wonderful read.
is a delightful example of her work. Ha'ven is a wonderful character who finds himself in the same position that his friends were in, in love with a human female and completely clueless as to what to do. Emma has been hurt and just wants to disappear but Ha'ven makes her feel again. There are twists, turns, danger, and laughter as the two make their way to each other. All in all a wonderful read.
February 9, 2014
Nooooooo... I read it out of order. It's a spin-off from other series. I was wondering why the other characters in the book were all coupled off. I wanted to read about their stories too. Ugh. Off to read those first before continuing with this story.
It was good. I think it was too instant after they got together. She was just so traumatized and going through PTSD for it to turn off that quickly and fall in "love" with him. The alpha-ness was missing a bit as well IMO.
Overall, it was good. I will continue with the series... after I read the other previous series first. I am so OCD when it comes to reading things in order lmao. I do hope it gets better as it goes along...
It was good. I think it was too instant after they got together. She was just so traumatized and going through PTSD for it to turn off that quickly and fall in "love" with him. The alpha-ness was missing a bit as well IMO.
Overall, it was good. I will continue with the series... after I read the other previous series first. I am so OCD when it comes to reading things in order lmao. I do hope it gets better as it goes along...
January 15, 2015
Just a medicore read
Unfortunately, this book just didn’t work for me. I think it was mostly because I didn’t care much for the heroine or hero and I found the plot to be overly predictable. This book does have a ton of positive reviews, so perhaps it was just me. It wasn’t bad but it wasn’t good. It just never pulled me into the storyline. I also tired of them constantly declaring their love for one another. "I love you" "I love you" " I love you". We get it. I doubt I will continue this series.
Unfortunately, this book just didn’t work for me. I think it was mostly because I didn’t care much for the heroine or hero and I found the plot to be overly predictable. This book does have a ton of positive reviews, so perhaps it was just me. It wasn’t bad but it wasn’t good. It just never pulled me into the storyline. I also tired of them constantly declaring their love for one another. "I love you" "I love you" " I love you". We get it. I doubt I will continue this series.
December 1, 2019
Le début était prometteur mais la situation évolue beaucoup trop vite ensuite, dommage.
November 23, 2013
I loved it! I love the world that Ms. Smith has created. It was 100% believable and felt very real. The story is so good that, romance aside, it is worth the investment of your time and money. This is a stand alone book and you don't have to read the Dragon Lords of Valdier series or Choosing Riley in order to enjoy this, though I recommend it as you will get "more" out of the story. I've read almost all the books by SE Smith and I found this one to be quite different in that it was actually a tender and sweet romance rather than a HOT romance.
**********SPOILERS**********
Emma is a sweet human girl suffering from PTSD due to a horrific experience on Earth. She has closed down and no longer talks, eats very little and has lost the will to live. I was very moved by Ms. Smith's portrayal of her and thought Emma's withdrawal was 100% realistic. Ha'ven is a powerful Curzian prince and a total alpha male. His people have the power to manipulate energy (loved it!) and he can see aura's. When he walks into a dining room on the planet Valdier, his energy meshes with Emma's and he knows he found his mate. He immediately wants to claim her but he quickly realizes something is very wrong with her. Upon this realization, Ha'ven begins to carefully court Emma - trying to give her time to get to know him and trust him. I loved this part of the book - alot! I really appreciated that Ms. Smith gave us, the reader, the TIME to understand the magnitude of Emma's pain AND the time for the foundation of a relationship to be built. (I hate it when author's rush the "mating".) He soon has to leave Emma for a week and upon his return he kidnaps her. (LOVED IT!)
Once on board his ship, Emma has a nasty flashback and her terror was so gripping and poignant that it leaped off the page! I was 100% there. I thought her struggle to deal with her pain was very realistic. Now for the bad part - they mate right after this. Urgh! I really, really, REALLY thought it happened much too quickly considering she had just had a pretty dang traumatic flashback. Their mating at that time felt like a let down, and didn't seem realistic. I didn't like the quick transition from traumatized Emma to sexually prowess Emma. Now, I know and indeed wanted the transition to occur, I just wish it would have taken a bit longer. Considering Emma's emotional state it just didn't seem realistic.
**********END SPOILER**********
The rest of the story was great and I enjoyed it immensely. All the worlds, aliens and creatures that Ms. Smith creates are so amazing and we get a heartfelt and satisfying HEA. If your looking for a sci-fi romance that is more on the sweeter side, you will LOVE this!
**********SPOILERS**********
Emma is a sweet human girl suffering from PTSD due to a horrific experience on Earth. She has closed down and no longer talks, eats very little and has lost the will to live. I was very moved by Ms. Smith's portrayal of her and thought Emma's withdrawal was 100% realistic. Ha'ven is a powerful Curzian prince and a total alpha male. His people have the power to manipulate energy (loved it!) and he can see aura's. When he walks into a dining room on the planet Valdier, his energy meshes with Emma's and he knows he found his mate. He immediately wants to claim her but he quickly realizes something is very wrong with her. Upon this realization, Ha'ven begins to carefully court Emma - trying to give her time to get to know him and trust him. I loved this part of the book - alot! I really appreciated that Ms. Smith gave us, the reader, the TIME to understand the magnitude of Emma's pain AND the time for the foundation of a relationship to be built. (I hate it when author's rush the "mating".) He soon has to leave Emma for a week and upon his return he kidnaps her. (LOVED IT!)
Once on board his ship, Emma has a nasty flashback and her terror was so gripping and poignant that it leaped off the page! I was 100% there. I thought her struggle to deal with her pain was very realistic. Now for the bad part - they mate right after this. Urgh! I really, really, REALLY thought it happened much too quickly considering she had just had a pretty dang traumatic flashback. Their mating at that time felt like a let down, and didn't seem realistic. I didn't like the quick transition from traumatized Emma to sexually prowess Emma. Now, I know and indeed wanted the transition to occur, I just wish it would have taken a bit longer. Considering Emma's emotional state it just didn't seem realistic.
**********END SPOILER**********
The rest of the story was great and I enjoyed it immensely. All the worlds, aliens and creatures that Ms. Smith creates are so amazing and we get a heartfelt and satisfying HEA. If your looking for a sci-fi romance that is more on the sweeter side, you will LOVE this!
September 29, 2018
RATING: 3 Hearts!
April 25, 2016
What an introduction to this series! Smith balances action with romance and all the steamy encounters you could desire. It’s the perfect SciFi story – enough realism to make it plausible and the intergalactic adventure of a lifetime. I loved the way that the backstory is all pulled together. It was fascinating, simultaneously building the world, introducing readers to an entirely new culture and civilization, while also forming a connection with the characters. Smith’s indepth and fascinating world building had me wanting to travel to Curizan posthaste. I loved getting to know the Curizan powers and what they involve. The mix of magic and technology was fascinating. I thoroughly enjoyed the myths surrounding the Goddess and how they play into everyday life.
I loved the deeper look at Ha’ven’s character throughout the novel. He’s both complex and completely straightforward. The way that Ha’ven’s powers were developed made them so very real for me. I loved seeing Emma’s growth and recovery. Not only were these two a fun pair to get to know, but I felt emotionally connected to them from the get-go.
Ha’ven’s Song might just be the most beautiful thing I’ve ever experienced. And I’ll admit, it’s left me dying for Adalard’s story. He’s almost as much fun as the main characters.
I loved the deeper look at Ha’ven’s character throughout the novel. He’s both complex and completely straightforward. The way that Ha’ven’s powers were developed made them so very real for me. I loved seeing Emma’s growth and recovery. Not only were these two a fun pair to get to know, but I felt emotionally connected to them from the get-go.
Ha’ven’s Song might just be the most beautiful thing I’ve ever experienced. And I’ll admit, it’s left me dying for Adalard’s story. He’s almost as much fun as the main characters.
October 23, 2022
Ha'ven was a troubled man with the weight of his world on his shoulders and a power that destroy it all. There was no light to his situation until Emma. Emma was damaged by malice and loss. She took solace in the shadows and the dark. She just never imagined that her need for the dark would be the light that he needed to push forward. The power they both hold together will fuel their future and that of their world.
It took time but I got accustom to the narrator. Not my first choice to begin this series. It may just take some time to get use to his style in tackling the genre. He just does not read like a lover of it or a regular narrator for such things.
It took time but I got accustom to the narrator. Not my first choice to begin this series. It may just take some time to get use to his style in tackling the genre. He just does not read like a lover of it or a regular narrator for such things.
October 21, 2021
Not bad for second read
Read for the second time since the second book in this series FINALLY just came out and I wanted to reread so I could remember the storyline. This book was good. There is romance and adventure. I remember liking all her books, but the writing style is just OK and not as great as I remenbered. Hopefully the writing gets better in the second book because this one was published in 2013 and the second book in 2021.
Read for the second time since the second book in this series FINALLY just came out and I wanted to reread so I could remember the storyline. This book was good. There is romance and adventure. I remember liking all her books, but the writing style is just OK and not as great as I remenbered. Hopefully the writing gets better in the second book because this one was published in 2013 and the second book in 2021.
Want to read
July 18, 2013I can't wait till this book comes out. Hurry, hurry. It sounds like such a good story line. Kind of like Gracie's Touch and Lily's Cowboys combined, btw, two of my favorites.
January 7, 2015
So... much... cheese.
May 29, 2018
Each book gets better , and better !!
I have been reading this DRAGONS of VALDIER series one , by one, and honestly , I can barely get anything done !!
In this mystical, magical world that S E Smith has created, galaxy far , far away from Earth, several Earth women have found themselves "guests " of the VALADIER Royal family. Sara, and Emma where found in the jungles of South America being savagely abused by a man who could not find the female responsible for his list limb . So he would find and kidnap women who looked similar, and have them take her place (sadistic SOB) . Carmen , the lady actually responsible, had ended up , far , far away from South America in a whole nother GALAXY ! So , in order for Carmen to move forward with her new life , she needed to get some type of closure. So , back to Earth they came , so she could kill the man she maimed months ago. Once inside the compound , they found the two surviving women ,who looked so much like her. It was decided that the women who were badly injured would accompany then back to VALDIER, where the technology could heal them. But some wounds are deep and internal . And that's what Emma is dealing with.
Emma Watson the only child of a couple who had her later in life, and was very sheltered. Her beloved father had died recently, and her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer s and Emma could no longer take care of her. She wanted to see the world, and have an adventure,but got WAYYY more then she bargained for. After being kidnapped from the hotel she was at , and beaten over and over agian......She broke down and withdrew into herself. She didn't want to do anything but disappear .And now she finds herself not even on the Planet anymore !! Not having anyone but her parents in her life , all she wanted was to go back to when she was happy -with them . Enter HA' VAN .
HA' VAN HAD' DARA was a Prince , and friend of the VALADIER Princes . During the wars he had been kidnapped and tortured, and imbued with a power that threatens to get out of control, quickly. It is as he is coming to understand his fragile grip on this extra enhancement to his already considerable power that he feels another power , one that can perhaps balence his own. And that may just be the miracle he needs . But all Emma wants is to be left alone , and besides, she doesn't have any "power" ......does she ???
The story continues as she claims that she doesn't want the Prince, but he intends to Claim her.....if she will let him.
I found this book to be a great addition to a great series, and I look forward to many ,many more from this Author. To be honest , these books are like potato chips---- bet you can't READ just one !! I dare you to give them a try !!!
I have been reading this DRAGONS of VALDIER series one , by one, and honestly , I can barely get anything done !!
In this mystical, magical world that S E Smith has created, galaxy far , far away from Earth, several Earth women have found themselves "guests " of the VALADIER Royal family. Sara, and Emma where found in the jungles of South America being savagely abused by a man who could not find the female responsible for his list limb . So he would find and kidnap women who looked similar, and have them take her place (sadistic SOB) . Carmen , the lady actually responsible, had ended up , far , far away from South America in a whole nother GALAXY ! So , in order for Carmen to move forward with her new life , she needed to get some type of closure. So , back to Earth they came , so she could kill the man she maimed months ago. Once inside the compound , they found the two surviving women ,who looked so much like her. It was decided that the women who were badly injured would accompany then back to VALDIER, where the technology could heal them. But some wounds are deep and internal . And that's what Emma is dealing with.
Emma Watson the only child of a couple who had her later in life, and was very sheltered. Her beloved father had died recently, and her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer s and Emma could no longer take care of her. She wanted to see the world, and have an adventure,but got WAYYY more then she bargained for. After being kidnapped from the hotel she was at , and beaten over and over agian......She broke down and withdrew into herself. She didn't want to do anything but disappear .And now she finds herself not even on the Planet anymore !! Not having anyone but her parents in her life , all she wanted was to go back to when she was happy -with them . Enter HA' VAN .
HA' VAN HAD' DARA was a Prince , and friend of the VALADIER Princes . During the wars he had been kidnapped and tortured, and imbued with a power that threatens to get out of control, quickly. It is as he is coming to understand his fragile grip on this extra enhancement to his already considerable power that he feels another power , one that can perhaps balence his own. And that may just be the miracle he needs . But all Emma wants is to be left alone , and besides, she doesn't have any "power" ......does she ???
The story continues as she claims that she doesn't want the Prince, but he intends to Claim her.....if she will let him.
I found this book to be a great addition to a great series, and I look forward to many ,many more from this Author. To be honest , these books are like potato chips---- bet you can't READ just one !! I dare you to give them a try !!!
May 31, 2017
This was another tearjerker for me. What Emma went through with her mom was similar to my experience with mine. The book had me bawling whenever Emma described taking care of her elderly parent with Alzheimer's.
Ok, so Ha'van was a cocky dude. Seriously not used to women not throwing themselves at him. Of course Emma isn't like any woman he met before.
While I liked their relationship, I kinda felt like she gave up the drawers very quickly. Granted, he was the only person to spark a strong reaction out of her so there was that. The bad guys from the first Valdier book are the gifts that keep on giving. Even defeating the leaders doesn't stop their sadistic underlinings from acting up. Still pissed that dude kicked a pregnant woman!
The action was good and Ha'ven's powers are very interesting. Plus the ending definitely shows you what the next book in this series will be. That'll be fun!
Overall an enjoyable story. I do like how Emma became stronger as the book went on. She'd been thru a horrific experience so it's understandable she's in a bad way. Ha'ven basically brought her back to life. And she gave him balance. I like how they complimented each other and bought out their strengths. I definitely recommend this one if you're a fan of the Valdier and their friends.
Ok, so Ha'van was a cocky dude. Seriously not used to women not throwing themselves at him. Of course Emma isn't like any woman he met before.
While I liked their relationship, I kinda felt like she gave up the drawers very quickly. Granted, he was the only person to spark a strong reaction out of her so there was that. The bad guys from the first Valdier book are the gifts that keep on giving. Even defeating the leaders doesn't stop their sadistic underlinings from acting up. Still pissed that dude kicked a pregnant woman!
The action was good and Ha'ven's powers are very interesting. Plus the ending definitely shows you what the next book in this series will be. That'll be fun!
Overall an enjoyable story. I do like how Emma became stronger as the book went on. She'd been thru a horrific experience so it's understandable she's in a bad way. Ha'ven basically brought her back to life. And she gave him balance. I like how they complimented each other and bought out their strengths. I definitely recommend this one if you're a fan of the Valdier and their friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2024
Emma Watson, Prince Ha’ven Ha’darra
Emma is kidnapped while traveling in South America. She is abused and has to watch horrible things while at the hands of her captors. She ends up rescued by beings that are not from Earth.
She's withdrawn because of what she's went through, but also because she's not able to be there for her mother who has Alzheimer's.
Then comes Ha'ven who recognizes her as his mate and he does everything he can to woo her, and he eventually gets through to her.
During this time, they are also in the sights of someone who wants to destroy Ha'ven by any means necessary and has no quims using Emma in the process.
I enjoyed this story and how the author handled what happened to Emma and how Ha'ven pursued her with that in mind. I liked the elements of the magic or whatever power they had that bonded them together more.
The only time I rolled my eyes was Emma's quick turnaround. They had barely left where she was staying and made their agreement and then she was in love. Other than that little blip, I enjoyed the story and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
Emma is kidnapped while traveling in South America. She is abused and has to watch horrible things while at the hands of her captors. She ends up rescued by beings that are not from Earth.
She's withdrawn because of what she's went through, but also because she's not able to be there for her mother who has Alzheimer's.
Then comes Ha'ven who recognizes her as his mate and he does everything he can to woo her, and he eventually gets through to her.
During this time, they are also in the sights of someone who wants to destroy Ha'ven by any means necessary and has no quims using Emma in the process.
I enjoyed this story and how the author handled what happened to Emma and how Ha'ven pursued her with that in mind. I liked the elements of the magic or whatever power they had that bonded them together more.
The only time I rolled my eyes was Emma's quick turnaround. They had barely left where she was staying and made their agreement and then she was in love. Other than that little blip, I enjoyed the story and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
November 11, 2020
Asking the real questions here:
- How did Emma get her powers? Why does she even have powers to begin with? (This could have been an interesting angle to explore, but of course, none of it is really explained, so I'm just gonna call it deus ex machina.)
- Why does everybody have a husky voice? I mean, everybody! The villain, the side characters, random nobodies -- you name it. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if even rocks and trees have husky voices.
That aside, I was alternating between annoyance and boredom with the main couple. Emma was far too whiny and pathetic that I quickly lost sympathy. Ha'ven's just like every other "hero" from the author's books, with very little personality that quickly gets tossed out the window once the instalove kicks in. And boy, was it bad.
The second half of the book was a teeny improvement over the awful infodump-tastic first half, but not enough save the story. And I'm just gonna say this...Crom needs his own book, pronto!
- How did Emma get her powers? Why does she even have powers to begin with? (This could have been an interesting angle to explore, but of course, none of it is really explained, so I'm just gonna call it deus ex machina.)
- Why does everybody have a husky voice? I mean, everybody! The villain, the side characters, random nobodies -- you name it. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if even rocks and trees have husky voices.
That aside, I was alternating between annoyance and boredom with the main couple. Emma was far too whiny and pathetic that I quickly lost sympathy. Ha'ven's just like every other "hero" from the author's books, with very little personality that quickly gets tossed out the window once the instalove kicks in. And boy, was it bad.
The second half of the book was a teeny improvement over the awful infodump-tastic first half, but not enough save the story. And I'm just gonna say this...Crom needs his own book, pronto!
January 2, 2017
Eh, I liked it, but seriously it's sooooo irritating to have to flip between books because they keep spoiling each other.
The Sarafin series and the Curzian series I read with books of the Valdier series, because more of the same:
I was going to do this detailed instruction manual of what incredibly complicated order to read the books in, but life is too short! Basically, I read books 2-5 at the same time, skipping between them at points of intersection of the books! Because! Spoilers! Ye flippin' gods the spoilers between books. And it irritated me. I had to keep going to the next book (books 6 to... 9?) because the previous book was spoiling. I skipped the sex scenes. I started reading the series because my Amazon kept suggesting I should read the Dragonling's Christmas and such. I wanted the adorableness!!! And they were adorable... But thank gods I'm out of that interminable morass of nonsense!! Ah, plenty of continuity errors, mostly timeline.
The Sarafin series and the Curzian series I read with books of the Valdier series, because more of the same:
I was going to do this detailed instruction manual of what incredibly complicated order to read the books in, but life is too short! Basically, I read books 2-5 at the same time, skipping between them at points of intersection of the books! Because! Spoilers! Ye flippin' gods the spoilers between books. And it irritated me. I had to keep going to the next book (books 6 to... 9?) because the previous book was spoiling. I skipped the sex scenes. I started reading the series because my Amazon kept suggesting I should read the Dragonling's Christmas and such. I wanted the adorableness!!! And they were adorable... But thank gods I'm out of that interminable morass of nonsense!! Ah, plenty of continuity errors, mostly timeline.
June 24, 2018
Emma is one of the woman that Creon saved from the man who killed Carmen's husband. She is on Valdier but not doing well. She has retreated into herself and is not eating or talking to anyone. One night Sara, another woman that was rescued, talked her into going to a dinner that Abby prepared.
Ha'ven walked into the dinner and saw Emma his energy began to entwine with Emma's. He tried to get her to eat but she ran. He followed and she started talking. Little by little she started getting better. Ha'ven then kidnapped her to take her to his planet. He needs her to help control his powers that is getting stronger. He has no choice unless he is ready to die.
Traitors are still be searched for and Ha'ven and Emma are placed in danger.
I enjoyed finding out more about the Curizan's powers.
I recommend all of the books I have read so far.
Ha'ven walked into the dinner and saw Emma his energy began to entwine with Emma's. He tried to get her to eat but she ran. He followed and she started talking. Little by little she started getting better. Ha'ven then kidnapped her to take her to his planet. He needs her to help control his powers that is getting stronger. He has no choice unless he is ready to die.
Traitors are still be searched for and Ha'ven and Emma are placed in danger.
I enjoyed finding out more about the Curizan's powers.
I recommend all of the books I have read so far.
February 14, 2018
4.5 rating. I was expecting a more exciting story. It was a good story, just really sweet. Ha’ven was not the warrior I was expecting. I saw the Ha’ven from the dragonling stories. Fiercely protective. Emma grew. Loved it. She grew stronger. She was different in this story than in the dragonling adventures. Preferred this version. Strong. The twins were fun. Looking forward to reading their story. I always enjoy reading Ms. Smith’s work. Even though I missed the excitement of the other stories, I can say there was much love in Ha’ven and Emma’s story. Very enjoyable.
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