He’s as cold as ice, but I’m ready to make him melt. I’m sick of being alone, sick of being ignored by my alien “husband,” Xade, and exhausted from always being as nice as possible. When the local alien wildlife starts rampaging, all I see is a golden opportunity to finally get some alone time with him on a mission, convince Xade to be my friend… and maybe more. Xade’s grumpy demeanor brings out another side of me, though, and I start to realize saying "no" is a skill I need to work on. But our mission to uncover the mystery of what’s driving the alien dinosaurs out of control turns dangerous quickly. Xade and I are in over our heads, but at least we have each other. And in this case, our opposite personalities might make us the perfect team… something he's starting to recognize, too.
January Bell writes steamy sci-fi and fantasy romance with a guaranteed happily ever after. Combining pure escapism, a little adventure, and a whole lotta love makes for romance that's a world apart. For the latest updates, follow her on Instagram and Twitter and subscribe to her newsletter for exclusive content. Is there a character you would like to see featured in a future novel or novella? Don't be shy! She'd love to hear from you.
Things I enjoyed: * Although not at first, the FMC Carmen and MMC Xade do communicate with each other and try to establish a decent start to build off of. * Mention of trying therapy to work on improving communication in a relationship! (unethical therapy but hey) * Kyle * "You spoke your truth. That is not cause for apology." is a raw ass thing to say * "Why do you make eye water?" * "What is an ass cave?" * There's a same sex relationship! Finally! I feel like MF monster/alien romance series are often terrible at including queer characters. I worry sometimes because as a reader, it's tough to know if an author's lack of queer characters is from heteronormativity eclipsing the possibility of same sex couples in their story or if they're more directly homophobic.
Things I did not enjoy: * Everything was rushed. January, it's OK to take longer to put out your books. The two characters fall into bed way too quickly for dumb reasons with little buildup. The book takes place over the course of like 3-4 days * Carmen's whole personality changes as the catalyst for shaking things up. While she sort of balances that out in the end, that just doesn't make sense. * The most interesting part of the plot doesn't really kick off until like 60% of the way through the book. * So much more could have been done with the outlaw city * Instalove * SO many assumptions are made about the cool thing at the end of the book with zero evidence or research. Look, it's a cool thing to introduce but like, build up some anticipation while the characters investigate and confirm what's going on! * I was really looking forward to seeing the two biologists get along and share cool biology stuff with each other. I envisioned them bonding over their love for biology and care for animals and the environment or whatever, or Xade proudly sharing information that impresses Carmen, or Carmen figuring things out about local wildlife that impresses Xade, and so on. NONE of that happens. There is ZERO cool biology shit. In fact, Carmen is even depicted as being a biology dipshit as she completely freaks out over a snake?? and spouts complete nonsense. It ruins her credibility altogether. What the hell?
Again, please put content warnings in the book blurb or book itself. Pointing me to your website when, 1) you don't even link to the content warnings but make me hunt around for them, and 2) the website doesn't even have said warnings, is obnoxious.
The following ratings are out of 5: Romance: 💚💜💙❤️ Story/Plot: 📕📗📙 Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏 Character development: 😒🥺😀🙂 Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙 Narration type: Dual Narration
The heroine:Carmen - she is a xenobiologist who came to the Suevan territory on a diplomatic mission, only to find out that she and the other women on the mission were sold out by their government. The welcoming ceremony when they got to the planet was in fact a wedding ceremony and all the females were now tied to Suevan husbands. Carmen finds herself wed to a grumpy alien that doesn’t want a mate.
The Hero:Xade - he is what is called a hunter in his tribe. It doesn’t mean that he hunts for food, though certainly can do that. He is called a hunter because he hunts for the truth in the wilderness. He is basically a conservation biologist that strives to learn about the world around him. He was raised in the Jungle all alone. When he was found by his people, he came out of the jungle for warlord training and then immediately returned. His fellow Suevan’s were surprised when he was chosen to get a wife, because he doesn’t deal with people much at all and doesn’t like to.
The Story: The Suevan’s discover a problem with the Crigomar (creatures like the Tyrannosaurus Rex), who used to stay in one part of the planet but have been leaving their territory more and more. This is a danger to aliens and humans alike, and Xade is going to study them and see if he can find out why and what to do about the problem. The other females suggest that Carmen goes along since she is a biologist and has the background to help him.
This story was entertaining; I liked the fact that both main characters were so similar, and both had a love of the flora and fauna. I also enjoyed the mystery they went away to research. The fact that they were going to study some very dangerous creatures definitely added to the suspense of the story, I could tell from the start that there would be some dicey situations in store for them.
This audiobook was narrated from multiple perspectives, done in dual narration by Mason Lloyd and Hollie Jackson. These two narrators make me think of the Ice Planet Barbarian’s and the storylines and romance in these books don’t differ all that much aside from being set on a jungle planet instead of an ice planet. Mason and Hollie always do a fantastic job, and I like their narration style.
In a groundbreaking mission, Earth has launched an all-female team into space with the objective of establishing contact with extraterrestrial life and fostering goodwill. However, the team encounters unexpected challenges that go beyond their initial expectations. A significant aspect of this encounter involves differing perceptions: while the human women see it as a welcoming initiative, the aliens view it through the lens of traditional customs, including marriage.
This situation unfolds in a complex and often hostile environment, raising concerns about the safety of the human team. As the narrative progresses, the dynamics between the women and the alien alpha warlords evolve, highlighting their protective instincts toward the newcomers. This interplay leads to intense chemistry among the characters, prompting them to confront their feelings and desires amidst the challenges they face.
The story is rich with elements of action, misunderstandings, fear, pain, love, and humor, creating a multifaceted exploration of relationships across species and the journey toward mutual understanding and connection.
I started skimming heavily about 35% in and skipped to the end after 55%. Zero chemistry between these two. The insta-luv after almost no contact between them was ridiculous. And I'm sorry author, but Carmen was whiny and annoying and ruined what little of the book I enjoyed.
My initial reaction after finishing “Wed to the Alien Hunter” from January Bell went like this: Woahhhhhh! Wow!! I’m so sad this read is over, it feels like it went by too fast! I have one question though: what is happening next?!! Now we have a setup for a continuation of this series or new spin-off series, right?
This book is for you if you like: 🟢grumpy/sunshine 🟢dual POV 🟢forced proximity 🟢alien road trip! 🟢found family🦖🦖 🟢my wife! 🟢stalker *cough* I mean scientist observing vibes
You know what I love about the Suevans? Their vibrating xof… 🤗 in addition to that, I love how much they love and cherish their wives, so it was a shock to me when Xade seemed more comfortable watching and observing his wife from afar… like a stalker romance? (am I into that…?)
Something else I love that always gets me are language nuances that get lost in translation from human to alien. There is a ton of that in Wedded to the Alien Hunter and it gives me the squeals of joy every time.
These two MCs are both awkward in communicating: Carmen has been a pushover and yes-gal ever since earth was invaded by the bad aliens so she can’t say what she wants and Xade was raised in the jungle so he’s almost feral and doesn’t know how to be around others (same, tho, tbh). I enjoyed Carmen finding her backbone and standing up for herself with the other women and with Xade. One of my favorite things was when Carmen is sassy with Xade and it’s like an aphrodisiac for him. I love a MC that fully appreciates the sass.
Love this sci-fi romance and am so excited to see what happens next with this group.
It started off strong for me. A reclusive hero, a people pleasing girl who’s starting to stand up for herself, traveling and science, a thawing hero…
Sadly I don’t think it was executed as well as it could’ve been. Even though Carmen is trying to be more assertive, I feel like she’s still super accepting of Xade’s jerkish behavior.
This could’ve went ok if there was a slow burn and him starting to know her and thawing out but everything happens in like 2 days! And this is after months of him ignoring her, so even though he “watched” her, she didn’t know him at all.
Also I hate the casual reference of him sleeping with others in the past and licking their c**nts when she asks if he knows how to kiss - and Carmen having no reaction except being turned on. It’s literally one sentence and I’m being dramatic 😂 but in my head him living in the jungle for so long and hating being around people made me believe he wasn’t with others. I at least wanted him to say it was different with her or something.
I didn’t sense their connection too much and the plot was super quick. I feel like every book advances the story only ever so slightly.
I did like that they realized their miscommunications and differences and set up a plan to resolve them in the future.
So overall, the pacing was off to me, but I might try future ones in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Xade had potential as a MC, with an interesting past and resulting poor social skills. Carmen had some good momentum behind her finding her power again. However, I felt like the reasons Xade had had for not spending time with Carmen changed. By the end of the book I wasn’t really sure what his reasoning was because it seemed to morph.
Maybe my second favorite in the series? Carmen has been into Xade since the beginning, but can't figure out why he doesn't seem to be interested in her. Turns out he doesn't have the best people skills combined with not wanting to make Carmen do something she doesn't want to do. Carmen and Xade had me cackling throughout this book and I thought they were perfect together.
I enjoyed this one, but as others have mentioned, it did have its faults.
Still, their term for honeymoon was funny. And Petunia and Greg. 🩷🩷 The mystery cave was very interesting. Having been stuck in a real cave one time for over 6 hours, scary caves in fiction always interest me.
But for the stuff I wasn’t crazy about- -The issue with Xade and his reasons for being cold to Carmen kept changing. At first it was like, he was practically raised by wolves. (Not really. But he has a mysterious jungle past.) He thought of himself as animalistic and too socially stupid to be worthy of anyone. So I was thinking whoa.. maybe he has this rage monster thing inside of him where he goes extra feral when he’s emotional, or turned on? Oooh… Then, the next thing is, it’s Carmen who is the issue by being a doormat for her friends. And I was like… what? Really? Well he never spoke to her to get to know her, yet for a supposed scientist, he illogically assumed he already knew all about her. Eh.
-Also, that little bit about licking other females wet c**** during the kissing scene, his way of saying he’s had experience… dude… Carmen didn’t bat an eye. Wtf? Almost as bad as Under the Basilisk’s Gaze when the mmc of that book was boasting about his tongue and what it could do to cocks (saying this to the fmc). It’s petty and gross to me and jars me out of the story vibes.
-It was mentioned by one of the human women that these dudes are all really fast to fall in love, and this book was a case in point. I mean after I think one day of talking to each other, after 6 months of avoiding talking to her, the next morning he’s ready to bang. He’s more cerebral, supposedly, than the others. I thought it would take some more time to build chemistry between these two.
I realize that writing a series like this is difficult. So many reasons. But maybe take a break and write something else in between, so that you get a break and then come back to it with fresh eyes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Why is it that each book just keeps getting better and better as this series goes on? In typical January Bell fashion, this book was jam packed with a spicy romance, great humor, and a building plot that leaves you surprised by the end
What I loved about this book: -The market scene was hysterical! I literally had to reread it three times over because it just cracked me up that much. I love the alien miscommunications and how things get misconstrued with a comical twist. Speaking of... -Insect Nectar Lunar Quest. This also was another favorite part of the book. -Carmen and Xade are the epitome of the grumpy/sunshine troupe. I loved how even though you could see Xade changing a bit from being around Carmen, he was still true to his grumpy self. I liked too, how Carmen pushed herself and her limits to stand up for herself. -I was mind blown over Carmen's discovery at a certain point later in the book and can't wait to see how this works in the following books! -A slight spoiler here, but there are Crigomar babies and they are legit the cutest little things ever.
My only complaint: -This is probably just me being a little bit picky, but I wish that there was at least one more intimate scene between Carmen and Xade. Considering how the first time goes, the second time makes up for it a little bit. But that said, I thought one more intimate scene could have done them justice in deepening their connection.
That all said, I really enjoyed this book and it's probably my favorite out of the series! A solid 4.5/5 star read and I definitely recommend it!
We have the next installment from "The Accidental Alien Brides" series and this is the story of Carmen and Xade.
I was really excited to read it, because I caught a glimpse into the previous books of how hot this couple would be. She has been attracted to him since the beginning, but she can't understand why he is avoiding her and doesn't want to speak with her. After all, they are married. It turns out, they just needed some time alone. And this time alone it wasn't what I imagined it to be because it was full of action and a little bit of danger 😁. But it was still enough for them to finally start communicating with each other.
Even though the story was short, I loved how Carmen stopped being a people pleaser and finally started realizing that she can actually say "NO". And Xade...This stubborn male finally saw that she was the one for him. He realized that they could be together, they just needed to communicate more with each other in the future. They can even start thinking about children.
The book finished really nicely and I think that the next books will be good.
***I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion ***
This 7th book in the Accidental Alien Brides Series does not disappoint. Carmen has had enough of never standing up for herself and is fed up with Xade flat out ignoring her. The princess forces Xade’s hand and he is required to take his bride with him on a mission to figure out why the Crigormars (alien version of a dinosaur) are not acting normal.
Mistakes and misunderstandings abound in this book, as well as some seriously funny moments, like Carmen describing a honeymoon (iykyk)
Carmen found her inner strength and Xade does his best to make sure he can keep up. I’m so glad they get their HEA!
The plot and writing are superb. It’s easy to get invested in these characters and their lives. January Bell writes excellent romance!
This book can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend starting from the beginning.
The series is a fun quick read. Not very heavy, light on the details and fleshing out the characters.
What I find annoying is the spelling errors, syntax errors, continuity errors, and how EVERYONE pinches the bridge of their nose when annoyed or trying for patience. They are small thing but the pinching of the nose is the most irritating. It feels like the author wasn’t even trying to give them different personalities and quirks. Just find one that works and keep regurgitating it with everyone as if no one would notice.
I would give it more stars if there was more diversity in the characters.
Good plot progression in this one. There were some really good moments, although I wish there was a little bit more time spent with their changing relationship.
Rude. I was all into their Eistien-Rosen Bridge theories & then the book just ends. Overall this was another boring one in comparison to others, but I did really like Xade. & I almost died laughing during the snake throwing fiasco. Carmen was - I dont even know - but she's been one of my least favorite women so far. I'm assuming this series isnt over yet, but I'm not sure I'll pay attention enough to read any new additions. The series is fine; funny, but just fine.
For the most part, this was fine. I liked and understood why Xade pushed Carmen away — because he thought he would walk all over her and destroy someone as kind and pushover-y as she appeared. And as we come to discover, he didn't stay way because he didn't like her, he stayed away because he was afraid he was too harsh for her.
I also really enjoyed the fact that Carmen was the one who pushed for something to happen between the two, which was a nice change of pace for this series. I did think she was super over-the-top dramatic about it, however, but I do understand she was lonely.
I also just struggled with her because I felt like she had no real personality, just like a desire to have sex with her husband and for her "friends" to stop telling her what to do. And like you don't have to be mean to assert yourself. But this series over and over makes us believe that you have to be super aggressive and loud for anyone to listen to you. I also understood very little about the shifts in their relationship. Things just happened so quickly and I didn't feel like the build up was there at all. It was all "he hates me" to "i'm drunk and going to sit on his lap" to "now he wants to fuck me" to miscommunication to "oh we're in love," and finally to, "oh he doesn't believe I saw what I know I saw, but in the end, I love him still." It was just very strange in progression.
Also, something that I am really getting fed up with in this series is that in EVERY SINGLE ONE, when the FMC goes away and has this emotional journey with the MMC, when they come back the other women ALWAYS look at and treat that woman like she's crazy and can't possibly believe or think what she says. It's always for a different reason, and this one did make more sense because Carmen actually was physically harmed and they all think she might be hallucinating -- so they had more of a reason to be this way. However, how HARD would it be to not look at a woman you know like you think something is wrong with her and need to check her out medically before listening to a single goddamn word she says? Like. She's a person with autonomy and I feel that the other woman absolutely never treat each other that way when they've returned from those journeys. And then all of a sudden after she's been checked out medically they argue with her until she yells loud enough that they listen to her and then they defend her and are like "yeah why didn't your husband believe you." And it's like, BITCH? YOU DIDN'T BELIEVE HER EITHER?? Just. I hate women ganging up on a single woman and I hate it when women are not believed or listened to and that's a consistent pattern in this series.
However, I found it adorable that Xade just wants her to be happy so much and buys her like millions of dollars worth of shit to fill up his house for her. I think Xade is one of my favorites of the males in this series.
I also LOVE that they actually decide to go to therapy. It's been discussed in other books but this was the first time a couple has ever actually done it, and like, I feel that's a super imperative thing considering none of these couples are from the same species and have 7 million miscommunication issues.
I also liked the reoccurrence of the crigomar and having this couple adopt two baby crigomar (dinosaurs basically)! That was absolutely adorable and I was HERE for it.
Also, the wormhole to another realm was...something. I just wasn't expecting that and have no idea where that is going but hopefully, it'll circle around and be dealt with in the next book.
💚 “You are sunshine itself, and my own storm clouds might dull you, but you will still shine through.” ~~~ Carmen can’t seem to say no to anyone. The human biologist is one quiet, always helpful, nice and sweet woman. And she’s so, so lonely. But she’s done letting people walk all over her and being ignored by her alien husband. And the real Carmen is an absolute fire! She’s fierce, assertive, brave, stubborn and so much fun! And she doesn’t hesitate to stand up for herself. I absolutely adored her!
Xade is one grumpy, growly, quiet, stoic and socially awkward warrior. The Suevan Hunter is not used to people and spends most of his time in the jungles. But there’s another side of him, too, that he rarely shows! Because Xade is also fiercely protective, loyal, honorable, caring and thoughtful. He’s a really wonderful male and I loved everything about him. But this jungle boy definitely needs to level up his game if he wants to keep his wife.
I absolutely adored everything that happened between Carmen and Xade! What should a woman do, if her alien husband does everything in his power to avoid her? Well, she takes matters into her own hands and joins him on a mission in the wilderness! I loved those two together! I loved their constant banters and bickering. And, ohhh, all that tension! And the translator issues made everything even more fun. Carmen and Xade were so stubborn and such opposites, but they fit so well together. And the more time they spent together, the more they discovered who they truly were deep inside and that they’re meant to be together. And when they couldn’t resist the undeniable need for one another, the passionate moments they shared were so hot! Yes, both definitely needed to work on how to communicate with each other, but when there’s a will, there’s a way, and I loved that both were willing to work for their relationship.
In addition, the storyline was phenomenal! We get to go on an adventure through the Suevan wilds to search why the Crigomar are acting weird. And we get to visit an outlaw town… Can we have more outlaws, pretty please? And Bex… Ah, that woman always cracks me. And there’s more! Baby dinosaurs!!! Who could say “no” to these adorable cuties?! And what they discovered in the jungle… Holy Smokes! I NEED FREAKING ANSWERS!!!
Overall, the story is another incredible addition to the series! It’s filled with adventure, danger, suspense, humor, twists, drama, action, scorching hot passion and spectacular characters.
I couldn’t put it down and absolutely loved every page of it! And I cannot wait to see what will happen next!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Wed to the Alien Hunter is another addictive, swoon-worthy, laugh-out-loud addition to the Accidental Alien Brides series! Carmen and Xade’s grumpy/sunshine dynamic is absolute perfection, and their journey from misunderstanding to undeniable passion kept me hooked from start to finish. Carmen is a total sweetheart—kind, patient, and always putting others before herself. But after being ignored by her broody alien husband for far too long, she’s done playing nice. Determined to finally get Xade’s attention, she forces her way onto his mission, and let me tell you—watching her unleash her fiery, no-nonsense side was so satisfying. And Xade? Oh, this grumpy jungle warrior had my heart. He’s socially awkward, blunt, and a total loner, but underneath all that growly stoicism is a male who adores Carmen—he just has no idea how to show it. Turns out, his distance wasn’t disinterest, but a misguided attempt at respecting her choices. And once Carmen starts pushing back? Whew. The tension between them was electric! Their banter, the bickering, the stolen glances—it was all building to some seriously hot moments that did not disappoint. Beyond the romance, the adventure in this book was so much fun. A mysterious disturbance driving alien dinosaurs into a frenzy? A trek through the untamed Suevan wilderness? An outlaw town packed with danger and secrets? Yes, yes, and yes. The translator mishaps had me cackling, the action scenes had me on edge, and the adorable Crigomar babies? I NEED ONE. January Bell nails the perfect balance of humor, heart, and heat. I adored watching Carmen come into her own, standing up for herself and proving she’s more than just the “nice girl.” And Xade? Seeing him slowly open up, realizing that he wants Carmen in every way? It was everything. Their love story felt earned, and their chemistry was off the charts. This book had it all—romance, adventure, laugh-out-loud moments, and just enough mystery to leave me desperate for the next one. I’m loving how each book keeps expanding this world, introducing new twists, new characters, and new challenges. The series just keeps getting better, and I cannot wait for more!
I really had a fun time with Wed to the Alien Hunter, though I was a little disheartened when I saw that it was roughly 30+ pages shorter than her previous books, and this specific heroin (Carmen) I was highly anticipating her romance. That being said, the romance between the heroine (Carmen) and the hero ( Xade) what is decently developed and the main location/ object that they discover during the course of the story is very intriguing, which only leaves me wanting the final book in the series that much more (no spoilers).
The biggest positive for me was the heroine in general she developed her own voice, and was finally able to say “no” which we hadn’t seen much of up until this book. I really appreciated her character still sweet and kind, but no longer been a doormat . It felt like a natural progression while she was learning how to navigate between still having the people pleaser part of her, and wanting to stick up for what she wants and believes in.
On the other hand, the biggest let down was the sexual interaction between our two main characters. It felt very rushed, and when I was reading their first romantic encounter it left me slightly confused on how we got there in such a little bit of time with not a lot of development. I also would have enjoyed the hero’s (Xade) character slightly more if we were able to find out more details about his childhood, because he grew up very differently than the other warlords in the series. All in all I enjoyed it and would recommend especially if you want to see Carmen’s happily ever after.
2/5 Stars – “This Wasn’t a Romance, It Was a Scientific Study in Ghosting”
So here’s Carmen. Sweet, smart, a little lonely, and married to an alien warlord who is basically David Attenborough with a grudge. You’d think being married to the planet’s top eco-nerd would mean shared interests, long walks through the alien jungle, and hot discussions about reptilian mating habits.
NOPE.
What she gets is a silent, broody wall of scales named Xade who treats her like a ghost with a clipboard. He won’t talk to her, touch her, or even acknowledge she exists. The man gives trees more attention than his wife. Meanwhile, Carmen is one bad day away from making out with a fern just to feel something.
The other girls are out here glowing (literally), shacked up with tail-having himbos who worship the ground they float on. Carmen? She's screaming into the void and baking space snacks no one eats.
Eventually, Gen (MVP of meddling) sends her on a field trip with her walking emotional cactus of a husband to investigate some space dinosaurs acting weird. Cue forced proximity in the jungle, emotional bottlenecks, and one (1) tender moment after 80,000 sighs. It’s a long, dry road to a single drop of intimacy.
When they finally connect, it’s sweet, sure, but it’s giving “too little, too late” energy. Like being offered a warm cookie after watching everyone else eat theirs.
Highlights include:
Carmen yelling at dust motes like they’re her therapist Xade refusing to even grunt in her direction A scientific expedition that doubles as relationship CPR One kiss, maybe? We blinked and missed it
TL;DR: She brought heart, he brought silence, and I brought disappointment. 2 stars for jungle angst and the audacity to call this a romance when my girl needed a hug 200 pages ago.
I really enjoyed the first few books in this series but each of them is starting to feel like a carbon copy of the others. One thing I was excited about is finally getting a fmc that wasn’t a badass who was stubborn and mouthy (because frankly it gets cringey when every single fmc uses that same diction). And she is supposed to be a biologist yay!! Unfortunately about 10% into the book she decides enough is enough and she’s going to start “speaking her mind” and carrying a sword and flinging snakes into the air. I know many readers enjoy this type of fmc but I personally love when an fmc can actually be feminine and soft and not be ashamed about it. Also she could still learn to say no to others in her own softer way without morphing into an embarrassing loudmouth. Plus she was supposed to be an intelligent biologist but everything she does is the opposite of what a biologist would do. Same with the mmc, he is supposed to be a scientist as well but in this book he is literally called a hunter so the author changed his entire personality to just to fit with the whole barbaric savage warrior trope 🥲 come on I was so excited for nothing. And there is so much you can do with two scientists in an alien planet! We don’t need another jungle adventure creepy cave monster blah blah blah. And maybe I just didn’t understand it but I was confused by the instalust and overstimulation thing that the fmc had (was this the author trying to be inclusive I’m not sure?) but then by the second time they have sex the fmc was cured of this ailment or whatever it was. Lack of chemistry between the two and very worrying that they love each other so quickly but also talk about going to couples therapy. I may try to finish the series but not anytime soon
This book was another hit for the series. I am glad that Carmen finally got her HEA and was able to tame the Hunter. Now I have to honestly admit that when I read the previous books in the series, I didn’t really think that Carmen, the main female character, was that much of a doormat. I really thought she was a helpful nice person who was dependable. Maybe I was reading it wrong and just didn’t see that bevies I was always caught up in the story and relationship of each book. I will say though, I like that she found her some fire and stood up for herself and took what she wanted. She deserves to be happy and content like all her friends. When her and Zade finally come to an agreement and he realizes that Carmen is the one for him no matter what kind of personality she has, soft and sweet or take charge, it all falls into place for them.
The story had a little bit of adventure that kept it interesting and I liked the into of new characters and hope to potentially see more of the outlaws. I also like the mystery portal element that was added in this book. Over the course of the series, certain elements have been included like hidden caves and ruins and I feel like there is more to the planet than we think.
I completely recommend this book and the entire series. They are short, great reads and just the thing to hit the spot. They are worth checking out!
I loved this book, just as I've loved all the others. How could anyone not love a grumpy/sunshine spine where she's actually grumpier than she seems and he's not grumpy as much as raised in the wild by (metaphorical) wolves?! Carmen isn't my favorite of the leading ladies, but I think that her and Xade's story is one of the top. I like how they came together, and their little thoughts about one another. There will be a collection of quotes below in a spoiler for any who are interested! As well as some more thoughts about that ending. Can't wait for more! And if there are any aliens looking to take me on an insect nectar lunar object, I'm game. Especially if there are baby animals. I love every pet these ladies have gotten, but babies that will grow up to be ferocious? Takes the cake.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 Per usual, January Bell is hilarious and sweet and spicy. I love this newest edition to the Accidental Alien Brides, a super grumpy/sunshine that ends on a crazy cliffhanger.
Carmen is a bit of a people pleaser who is kind and sunshiney and her alien husband - mega grump and introvert known as the Hunter - won’t give her the time of day. She’s lonely and tired being ignored so when the opportunity to join her husband on an excursion to find out what’s going on with the plant’s dinosaur like creature, Carmen joins Xade. The two quickly realize that they’d misunderstood each other and fall for each other, but the planet is trying the hardest to thwart their love.
I thought the dynamics between Carmen and Xade was sweet and I loved the role the rest of the women/ their alien husbands played in the book. I also love the grumpy/ sunshine of the two. I was also really excited by the mystery they were trying to solve (and by the exciting new discoveries). I do wish we had a little more of them together and I want to know what happens! I definitely can’t wait for the next!
This is for you if you like: 🛸sci fi romance 🛸badass heroine 🛸a space mystery 🛸MY WIFE 🛸forced proximity 🛸grumpy/sunshine // introvert/extrovert 🛸dinosaur pets 🛸only one tent
This book was a 3.75 for me, I’ve been loving the Accidental Alien Brides series and I think this one had some great humour and relationship development, but i think I preferred some of the other books in terms of plot.
I’m also gonna say that Xade had to be a universally licensed GRAVE DIGGER with all his ‘reasoning’ to stay away from Carmen in the first half of the book. But the way Carmen gave up the niceties and put her foot down, first of all, made me super proud of her and, second of all, BOY did it up the tension. Because this guy was drooling over Carmen’s newfound backbone and lemme tell you, that was swoon-worthy🤭. This had the whole ‘you are my wife’ possessiveness I live for, but also the comedic timing was GOLD with these two, like it wasn’t haha-in-my-head it was haha-out-loud. So the relationship development factor was great if you can get past the miscommunication, which they did work through VERY well, so it made up for the miscommunication in the first place🤷♀️. The other girls in this were girlboss img the hell out of everyone but also the emotional support buddies we all need and i love that. I just think I preferred the storylines of the other books a bit more, they seemed to have a bit more substance and were more cohesive that this storyline, maybe I just struggled in understanding what was going on. But that’s really all, otherwise the banter was great between literally every character🫶🏼
This book follows Carmen and Xade on their infamous Insect Nectar Lunar Object! It was a grand quest to celebrate their union!
Carmen! So glad to see our science officer start leaning into assertiveness and advocate for her needs and wants! The bar scene was hilarious. I especially loved how Carmen's character growth cumulated to her standing up for herself when practically everyone else thought she had head trauma.
Xade! Our stalk-erm-hunter! I was hoping for a little more info about Xade's background/childhood and how that impacted him and made him different than the other warlords; I did enjoy the little bit that we saw with Redax though.
The romance in this book ran at a faster pace, with minimal barriers. I was surprised at how early a spicy scene popped up! This is definitely a more straightforward romance with minimal tension, which makes sense because these two have been fighting tension for all the previous books. This book seemed to be centered on setting the stage for another potential spin-off (ngl I was half expecting a new gaggle of women to magically arrive à la Ruby Dixon)