Saved by the Alien Mercenary

Monster Mercenary Mates #5

by Robin O'Connor

Alone in the Zeta quadrant, I made one reckless choice. Now I’m pregnant, trapped on a pirate ship, and my only ally is a gruff, brooding cook with a dark past.

Ruby

As a lone human in the Zeta quadrant, my life revolves around survival. It’s isolating, and in a moment of weakness, I give in to my deepest desire—to have a child. Now, pregnant and more vulnerable than ever, everything is twice as terrifying.

When I discover smuggled drugs aboard my ship, I’m furious. When pirates arrive to steal everything of value, I’m horrified. Desperate to survive, I strike a deal with the devil—and become a ‘guest’ aboard their ship.

The only solace? A gruff voice that speaks to me during my midnight snack runs to the mess hall. A soul as lonely as mine.

Brace

Rage is my constant companion, a force so dangerous I keep myself locked away in the galley, focusing only on making food. If I let go, I’d be on a path of vengeance, leaving nothing but death and destruction in my wake.

Then she appears in the dead of night. Pregnant, hungry, and despite everything, still smiling. She’s my light in the darkness, my heart. For her, I want to be better. For her smiles, I’ll leash the fury inside me, channel it, and destroy anyone who dares to threaten her unborn child.

For my Ruby, I’d do anything—even face the past I swore to bury and endure the revulsion of revealing what I truly am.

This is a standalone novel and the fifth book in the Monster Mercenary Mates series. This sci-fi monster romance features a grumpy alien hermit chef, a brave pregnant human captain, and a steamy HEA.

Genres: Aliens, Romance, Science Fiction, Science Fiction Romance

234 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 29, 2025

About the author

Robin O’Connor is an author who loves to write about strong, alien heroes and quirky heroines. She lives with her husband and son along with a couple hundred books (hers, definitely hers) and probably just as many computer parts (her husband’s). Her house therefore probably resembles something like a mad-scientist’s lab on any given day.

She’s always working on at least a half dozen projects at the same time but is never without time to answer questions, write up funny extras or hang out in her group online to speak with her readers.

Join her mailing list ➜ https://robinoconnor.ink/

Join her on Facebook ➜ https://www.facebook.com/RobinOConnor...

Visit her website ➜ https://robinoconnor.ink/

Follow her on Instagram➜ instagram.com/robinoconnorofficial/

Reviews

[Lynn_G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captain of a trading airship, a very pregnant Ruby discovers her crew decided to bring something extra on board which they stole from an intergalactic crime lord. While on the way to the trade point for the legitimate cargo, they’re intercepted by the Varakartoom. Rather than persecuting Ruby, she’s treated to medical attention and some outrageous meals courtesy of an elusive furry blue giant.

The embodiment of Sully from Monsters, Inc. mixed with Khal Drogo, Brace survived having his family slaughtered only to be forced into fighting gladiator style for the same ruthless crime lord Ruby’s crew stole drugs from. Brace, however, believes Ruby has nothing to do with it, and in fact feels strongly that she’s his fated mate, and is determined to keep her and her unborn son safe.

Brace volunteers to accompany Ruby to complete her trade mission, which in short order has them developing deep feelings for each other before turning into a desperate fight for survival.

I was generously furnished an advance reader copy from the author and booksprout, and I’m happy to share my honest review.

[Sandra Sanches · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally we get to see the secrets of the elusive cook of the Varakartoom.
Ruby is the captain of her ship and is pregnant ,transporting goods with a small crew but soon finds that they stached drugs abord.
The Varakartoom mercenaries intercept her and take her abord and as soon as Brace scents her ,his protective instints rise and this is where their story starts.
Whitin a never ending of action Brace and Ruby form a bond and find love for each other and for the baby unborn.
But soon they find who really is the child's father and his connection to the drugs lord ,Jalima.
The overarching plot of the series is rich and descriptive and it shows in each new story.
A excelent world building and settings.
And the unique and complex characters that steal your heart from the very beginning make this story an absolute MUST READ!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Holly Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saved by the Alien Mercenary by Robin O’Conner is book 5 of Monster Mercenary Mates. Ruby is a female human captain of a cargo ship set in delivering goods to a planet walking with her two crew, but she’s discovered illicit drugs on board linked to a criminal mastermind, and now pirates are boarding! Turns out the pirates are the crew of the Varacartoom, a band of pirates set on distorting the mastermind. There Ruby, hugely pregnant as a result of a one night stand, begins to fall for 8 foot tall, blue pelted Brace, the chef who immediately claims her as his own. The adventures and hot times they have are amazing! Read this wonderful space saga!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Avis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. I liked the worldbuilding. We get to know Brace and his strong will power not to let his violent half take control of him. We learn about his past and how that created the "monster" he thought he was.
I loved that Ruby could see through all of his defenses and see the true mate he was.
Action throughout. Loved the suspense and of course the perfect HEA for them.
I also liked that the crew helped at the end of the story but most of the journey to was about Ruby and Brace.
Can't wait to see who is matched with our damaged Solear.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with the previous books in this series, this book was absolutely amazing and action packed. I loved everything about this book, especially how Ruby wasn't even scared of Brace at all. I'm so very happy for Brace and that he finally got the mate that he deserved even though at first he didn't think he deserved her but that's exactly why he did deserve her. They fit each other really well. I can't wait to read more books in this series.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was another great addition to the Monster Mercenary Mates series and it was nice getting to know Brace better in this book and I loved getting to see the relationship between him and his human mate Ruby and how protective he was with her while still supporting her with whatever was important to her to do. The epilogue was nice and I am really looking forward to reading the next book in this series and getting to know Solear better as well seeing what kind of person his mate will be.

Monster Mercenary Mates
Prequel is Protected by the Alien Mercenary: A Steamy Sci-fi Monster Romance: Thar'oc & Rikki
Caught by the Alien Mercenary: Captain Asmoded & Manyin
Stolen by the Alien Mercenary: Mitnick & Harper
Betrothed to the Alien Mercenary: Aramon & Evie
Entangled by the Alien Mercenary: Tasseloris & Elyssa
Saved by the Alien Mercenary: Brace & Ruby
Chased by the Alien Mercenary: Solear & Lyra

I received a free advanced reader copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lois · Rating 5 out of 5]

Does she hold the power to heal him?

Captain Ruby González of the freighter spaceship Finix has a problem. The freighter is old, and one of its engines recently gave up the ghost. She only carries boring cargo to lessen the possibility of pirate attacks. The current cargo is material for making uniforms. However, this morning she found contraband aboard the ship. Drugs that certainly should never be found on her ship, but something that would certainly attract pirates.

She's never dealt with pirates before. She'd never taken any risk before, until she decided that she wanted a child. Now pregnant and with pirates approaching, she's at a loss as to what to do. She places a distress call. Unfortunately, she soon learns that her baby's father, De’tor, a Kertinal, is the current right-hand man to Jalima, the most powerful crime lord in the Zeta Quadrant.

Brace is a Hoxiam, a huge alien covered in blue fur, and a huge maw filled with rows of sharp, pointed teeth. His back is covered in scars he received as a captive forced to fight in the arena. He had been captured as a child and enslaved by the crime lord Jalima. He'd been forced to fight and had been starved to control his weight to fit a certain weight class for the arena. Normally, once his species tastes the blood of opponents, they acquire a bloodlust that is impossible for them to control. The only way to ease this frenzy is to eat others. He escaped from the warlord just before he became old enough to have to fight to the death and eat the opponent. If that would have happened, he'd never overcome the bloodlust. He has somewhat learned to control the red haze when it tries to overcome him, usually by destroying his furniture. But the lust for killing has never completely left him, especially for the warlord, Jalima.

Captain Asmoded is the leader of the most notorious group of mercenaries in the Zeta Quadrant. His state-of-the-art ship, the Varakartoom, is filled with males of various species who are all top-notch at their various talents. He's taken on Brace as the ship's cook. There are also females aboard, including other humans who were rescued by the crew. Most have found their mates from among the crew.

Brace loves to cook, but even more than that, he loves that he can do it from behind a screen so he doesn't have to interact with anyone. One of the women aboard, Elyssa, is a childhood friend of his and is mated to one of the crew. He still even hides from her. He's afraid to let others become close to him in case he harms them if the red haze overtakes him. However, it doesn't take long for Rose and her unborn son to worm their way into his heart.

When Rose is kidnapped by De’tor and her baby, Mateo, is taken from her arms, Brace will reunite his family at any cost...

The author includes an appendix at the end of the book to refresh your memory or introduce the crew members to you. Even though I've read the entire series to date, I found it helpful to read this section before starting the book.

I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Moonburst · Rating 3 out of 5]

Captain Ruby has made it all the way to the Zeta quadrant on her own, but it's lonely and dangerous being a human. When she finds illicit drugs on her ship and she's stopped by pirates, she's terrified that the drugs will lead to her and her unborn child's death. Thankfully the pirates are actually mercenaries, and after taking the drugs they allow her back to her ship with only their mysterious chef for protection. Brace is a huge, fuzzy alien prone to fits of rage. But both Ruby and Brace cannot deny the connection between them.

I really wanted to like this book. I was excited to learn more about Brace. While he had some interesting angst about his hunger and rage issues, there was little time spent describing his past. This made his emotional turmoil less impactful.

Unfortunately, I really struggled to like Ruby. She is clearly missing a few Think-It-Through Tiles. Despite knowing the risks to humans in the area, instead of cultivating a loyal crew, she cycles through crewmen every two years. She seems to not have any disguises, even though she needs to regularly interact with the general public. When she decided to have a baby, she essentially picked a male out at random and does no further investigation on him. Once pregnant, she does absolutely no research in his species' biology to determine what to expect. She seems to have no real plan for once the baby is born, and changes her mind for the future readily.

Finally, the plot needed a little more explanation. Characters suddenly know things without explanation. Characters also make strange decisions. For example, it was weird that Asmoded allowed Ruby back onto her ship without explaining why he thought she would run into trouble. Clearly, he was taking some responsibility for her safety, as he provided protection. So why not explain what difficulties she might encounter so she could prepare? Even if they were using her as bait, there was no reason to keep her in the dark. Another confounding example is when Ruby meets her baby daddy, and he says he wants the baby, she just knows he has something evil planned. They haven't spoken to each other at all. Perhaps he just wanted his own child. We really needed a little more interaction between the two to really make the threat make sense. After all, what exactly is a crimelord going to do with a newborn?

Overall, this story has a lot of interesting facets but fails to make a true connection to the reader. A rather frustrating addition that could have been much more.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Teddy Bear Brace!

Saved by the Alien Mercenary is book 5 in the Monster Mercenary Mates series and I have been waiting to read Brace’s story and he was everything I wanted in a ferocious mercenary; shy, cuddly, protective and he can cook! We got a little taste, ha ha, he is the galley chef after all… of Brace in the previous books and especially in book 4, Entangled by the Alien Mercenary and he was just as delicious as I suspected he would be!

In Saved by the Alien Mercenary we get to know Brace and Ruby and their adventure is dangerous, exciting and spicy and I adored how their relationship and her belly grew so quickly! The entire Varakartoom crew joins in the fun and the overall series plot develops and entices us a little more! I cannot wait for the next book in the series because we will get to know more about the very mysterious, menacing and unpredictable Solear! Shiver, shudder and shake!

Although you can certainly read this as a standalone book I highly recommend you do not! I have read every single one of Robin O’Connor’s books and I think the Monster Mercenary Mates are best enjoyed being read from the beginning of the series.

And… if you want more of this fascinating world, for a wonderful binge read where you can immerse yourself in all things hunky, dangerous and dominating aliens and their feisty humans, this would be my reading order recommendation.
1. Prequel novella, Gladiator’s Sanctuary, I received this for free on Robin’s website.
2. The Gladiators of the Vagabond series; read in order.
3. Two holiday themed novellas; There’s An Alien Down My Chimney and There’s An Elf In My Cockpit.
4. Taken by the Gargoyle King; a novella related to the Gladiators series.
5. The Naga Hunter’s Lost Mate; prequel to the Serpents of Serant series, I got this on Robin’s website too. 6. The Serpents of Serant series; read in order.
7. Protected by the Alien Mercenary; is part of the My Monster, My Protector series but feels like an introduction to Robin’s Monster Mercenary Mates series.
8. The Monster Mercenary Mates series; read in order!

[Tima · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby, the female human lead and spaceship captain, entered this quadrant of space as she was attempting to get as far away from Earth as possible after her family was killed in wildfires. Now a cargo delivery spaceship, she’s terrified when she finds what she thinks are pirates trailing her ship of only two crew and her pregnant self and some illicit cargo that she doesn’t know which of her crew snuck on board.

Brace, the male blue furred giant alien lead, is the chef on the mercenary ship following Ruby’s because they’re tracking down illicit cargo to put a crime lord out of business. His people are feared because of their “known” habit of eating sentient species and he struggles with his rage and hunger after having been trapped as a gladiator in his youth.

Then Ruby enters his kitchen and Brace finds himself irresistibly drawn to her. When she needs a bodyguard, he demands to go with her. But there are things she doesn’t know about the one night stand that gave her a baby, as well as the crime lord’s people chasing them for the cargo Brace’s people have already disposed of, and then they get stuck in inhospitable territory…

This story is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, fast-paced, action filled, alien/human, size difference, sci fi romance. I enjoyed Ruby’s resilience and determination. I enjoyed the trust she had in Brace, even when he didn’t trust himself. I enjoyed Brace’s slowly coalescing confidence in himself, as well as his absolute devotion to Ruby, and the care he showed for others. I enjoyed their intimate moments. I enjoyed the confidence with which Brace claimed Ruby’s baby as his own, and the whole found family on the mercenary spaceship. I enjoyed the action and the non-romance plot. I enjoyed the set up for the next story and I’m deeply excited for that male lead to get his story - I’ve been waiting for it!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.

[DebbieReadsBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Independent reviewer for BookSirens, I was gifted my copy of this book.

This is book 5 in the Monster Mercenary Mates series, and I really think you need to have read the other 4 books before this one. While not strictly necessary, I think it will give you a better picture of how Brace fits into his crew, and what they all think of him hiding in the galley.

Ruby is pregnant, and has a traitor on board. The mercenary vessel alongside her tells her so, she just doesn't know who it is. The crew of the mercenary vessel are welcoming and their mates are mostly human and it makes Ruby feel at home. But why is she drawn to the chef, who hides in the galley?? Brace is Hoxiam, a race of beings with a well deserved fearful reputation. He hides in the galley so as not to set himself off down a very slippery slope. But Ruby? She calls to him, on a level he doesn't deserve. He'll do anything for Ruby, even sign his own fate.

These books, right?? They are really the light of my life right now! I am so enjoying very little in my world, and these books just brighten it so much!

They are dark and deadly in places. Sweet and smexy in others. Deeply emotional in others still, and they cover a whole gammut of things in between. This one kept me on my toes, cos, while I *KNEW* there was a HEA, I wasn't sure there would be, if that makes any sense!

That bloody warlord, though?? The man has 9 lives and so far used 5 of them!! I really REALLY hope he gets his comeuppence at some bloody point!!

Solear is next. He doesn't speak and is possibly the scariest of this bunch! Can't wait!!

4 very VERY good stars, please keep em coming!

*same worded review will appear elsewhere

[Gleeful Goblin Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gleeful Goblin Review: So, normally in alien/monster romances you don't see a pregnancy storyline until the end or even the epilogue of a book so the fact that this story **starts** with our female main character already pregnant. In fact, ironically one of the only times I've seen an author do this same flip of the script it's Ruby Dixon. And Ruby just so happens to be the name of our FMC! Now, being one of the only humans out in the vastness of space AND being pregnant is absolutely petrifying and only gets worse when she's captured by the ship and crew of our MMC, Brace.

Brace is a former gladiator who has escaped his past physically but remains firmly trapped there mentally and emotionally. All around him are happy couples while he feels increasingly alone. He's also deeply afraid of how much anger, rage even that is inside of him. He's afraid of what he could do if he lets down his guard for even a moment, so he keeps everyone at arm's length or further away. The only one who manages to really slip through those dizzingly high emotional walls of Brace's is....Ruby.

These two souls seem like they couldn't be more different on the outside but as friendship and love blooms between them they discover that they have much more in common than they ever imagined. The biggest lesson for these two in my opinion is that there is strength in vulnerability and companionship. It is terrifying to let yourself be known, but it's infinitely worse to never be known at all. 5/5 Stars

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[kymagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pregnant human cargo captain Ruby (h) didn’t ask for trouble, but it found her anyway. Caught with contraband she didn’t know she had and outnumbered, she ends up on the alien ship Varakartoom, surrounded by dangerous but disciplined warriors. Ship's cook Brace (H) is a massive, silent Hoxiam with a violent past and a temper no one dares to provoke. But Ruby sees something no one else does: protection, loyalty, and the quiet hope that maybe she’s not alone.

As threats close in from every side, including the baby's criminal father, Ruby and Brace are forced to trust one another to survive. What starts as uneasy protection grows into something deeper as they face betrayal, brutal fights, and freezing wilderness with almost nothing. The closer Ruby gets to giving birth, the higher the stakes. As things heat up, their bond deepens through pain and trust, and by the time everything explodes around them, it’s clear they are each other's only future.

Brace is terrifying to everyone but Ruby, and watching him fall for her while facing his own demons is powerful. Ruby’s a fighter in every sense, for her child, her mate, her freedom, and her future. Their attraction is intense, but their emotional connection is key.

A steamy, emotional alien-human sci-fi romance, exploring love, connection, healing, survival, resilience, protection, sacrifice, identity, redemption, motherhood, agency, and chosen family. It's about love forged in chaos and what it takes to heal when the universe wants you broken.

[Shelley G · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved this one. finally brace gets his story and his happy ending. poor brace has lived a life of hardship, abuse, slavery, and finally freedom but at a price of always being alone because he can't control his rages. he can never touch someone or let others see his battle ravaged body for fear he scare or hurt them. he always has to hide the hunger that never stops. then suddenly a pregnant human female ruby gets brought on board from a ship they stop to search and he is drawn to her instantly but feels he can never have her. upon going on her ship to be rubys bodyguard she ends up seeing him in his true form without him hiding in his cloak and slowly a bond starts to form. ruby looks past his scars into his soul and she's the alien underneath his past trauma. brace will do anything to protect ruby and her unborn baby and fights multiple times to protect them both. after something horrible happens to ruby brace must fight to save them all and maybe have the family he's been craving at last. ruby and brace are both damaged and alone and this helps draw them together. together can they overcome their past traumas and current dangers and find love together with ruby's baby and be safe at last esp when the babies father finds them and wants his son. read on thru the excitement, danger, suspense, and emotional highs and lows to see how the story ends. wonderful characters with richly detailed plot and world building. i recommend this entire series.
I received an arc copy from booksirens and this is my honest voluntary review.

[Lyndsay L · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!!! This book has exceeded every single level in my mind. I was so excited to hear Robin decided to write this book for us earlier than we thought. I fell in love with Brace immediately he is the biggest sweetheart that hides away cause he is worried about hurting others. He knows his choice of staying hidden away causes some pain in his best friend, but he doesn't want to have his rage get ahead of him and hurt any of the people he cares about. The first moment he sees and smells Ruby he knows she is his mate. As he makes her the special food and fills the plate for her it is his way of taking care of her. When Ruby reaches for that plate and her fingers brushes Brace's she feels the electricity between them and she feels safe just knowing he is around. Nothing surprises her more when Brace is the one to come with her on her ship to help her finish her run. He cannot leave her. The way these two sweet people come together is such a fun read and I loved every single moment. How Brace takes care of Ruby is so heartwarming and he protects her with every single breath he takes. I loved every single moment of this book once you start you have to finish. I couldn't help being excited near the end when all Brace's friends all come together to help him and Ruby out. It was a dynamic way to end the book, and now I can't wait till Robin writes the next one!!! I highly recommend this book and series!!!

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

MFC Captain Ruby González has just had her ship overtaken by pirates in Saved by the Alien Mercenary, book five of the Monster Mercenary Mates series.
After they take her aboard their ship she learns they are mercenaries and looking for information on crime lord Jalami and the drugs she is carrying for him.
Unfortunately Ruby had only learned that morning that two of her crew had smuggled the contraband on board her ship and didn’t know anything about Jalami or his operations.
Being pregnant and only wanting to get her cargo delivered was her major concern at the moment. Her fears are soon alleviated though when she meets the ship Varakartoom’s human female mates and they embrace her as one of them.
When she gets a glimpse of the ships Hoxiam chef MMC Brace who serves her a midnight snack of the chocolate she has been craving this Sci-Fi romance takes some unexpected and exciting twists and turns. Two lonely beings are about to discover each other and their journey turns into a thrilling one filled with personal vulnerabilities, mate bonding, family dynamics, danger, intrigue, suspense, and passion.
Love this series as each new book delivers great writing, wonderful characterizations, and world building while delivering top notch storytelling that keeps the action, adventure flowing fast and always entertaining! HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby is the captain of the spaceship Finix. She's on a run with her crew when she discovers that they are being followed. Pirates! What's worse is that she found drugs one of her crew hid. They could be so dead!!
Brace a former gladiator is now cook on the pirate ship the Varakartoom. He still has episodes of the time of his captivity. He hides in his galley cooking. Then he learns that a human female with child has been brought on board. He becomes restless and nervous and his rage rises.
When Ruby seeks the galley for food Brace asks what she'd like and she says chocolate. He gives her a treat he made for his captain's mate. Then it hits him that she is his...his mate. But he will not act on it because he feels unstable. But he learns she wishes to return to her ship and he volunters to go with her.
Now the two are alone on her ship. She manages to catch him unawares and sees all of him. Then she sees the loneliness in his eyes. He is like her...alone and lost in it. They eventually get to the station where she's to sell the fabric. Only things go sideways once the transaction is complete. And of all things, Ruby comes almost face to face with the father of her baby.
Now they're on the run. Will Brace be able to keep his mate and her baby safe? Will the Varakartoom come help them or are they on their own?
Another fantastic and heart stopping story within this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saved by the Alien Mercenary by Robin O’Connor
Monster Mercenary Mates #5

Mercenaries of the Varakartoom spaceship are slowly meeting and falling in love with their mates. This story sees Brace a hulking hairy Hoxiam falling in love with much smaller human Ruby.

What I liked:
* Ruby González: captain and owner of the spaceship Finix, human, survivor, pregnant with alien fetus, attracted to Brace
* Brace: cook on Varakartoom, ex-gladiator, reclusive, lethal, eight feet tall, alien species with blur fur and eyes, attracted to Ruby
* That Ruby and Brace are both strong survivors who are instantly attracted to one another
* That Brace is so protective of Ruby and accepting of her unborn fetus
* Getting to see some of the characters from previous stories
* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing
* The healing devices available in these stories
* That even though there are trials to overcome and some difficulties there is also a happy ending
* That most of the bad guys were dealt with handily – do wonder if that one that jumped out the window will show up again, though
* Knowing that there is another book to look forward to

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* That both Ruby and Brace lost their families and seemed lonely till they met one another

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

[Angela Nichols · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m so glad Brace got his story and his happily ever after. He’s always been that mysterious alien in the galley you just don’t know much about. I was so glad we got to know him because he is an absolute sweetheart, but boy can he turn on the scary vibes when needed.
I loved that we got to see him figure out how to control his rages and hunger. He found that peace that had eluded him for so long. It was beautiful.
And Ruby was just so accepting and nurturing. She recognized that loneliness in him and since it matched her own she was able to empathize with him. She was a fabulous match for him. She wasn’t really that gung ho strong female, but more of a quiet strength where when she sets her mind to something, she will keep going. Even when it seems hopeless or she’s hurting. It was so wonderful to see that type of strength portrayed.
I also enjoyed seeing how these fierce mercenaries, even the ones not mated yet, have softened around the women.
Now for the con. I felt there were more scenes than normal where there was telling rather than showing. Like when talking about their pasts and the trauma they have gone through, those scenes felt like more of a recitation and it didn’t pull me into the story like it normally does. So it’s more of a 4 star read instead of the normal 5 I get with Robin. Still wonderful, just not my favorite book of hers.

I did receive an ARC from Booksprout and this is my honest opinion.

[Nina Diab · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Brace and Ruby. Both were very lonely people. Brace coped by staying away from others as much as he could as to not risk hurting anyone in his rage. Ruby coped by trying to have a baby. I loved their first meeting so much. She could only see hints of fur as he was hidden away. But she was hungry and craving chocolate- which is rare. He gave her a small chocolate cake and ginger tea and she was so happy. He completely won my heart then. And I loved that he began cooking and baking in a frenzy after that to make something that she would like. It was adorable!

'After last night’s surprise visitor, I had spent hours scrubbing the galley until every surface gleamed, my head whirring as I cataloged what foods I could make that might please her. Then I’d begun baking and cooking in a frenzy that had left me with seared fingertips, Haras flour all over my fur, and far more food than even the entire crew on the ship could possibly eat in one day. I’d gone nuts, and not in the usual way.'

And of course, he believed himself unworthy of a female- too broken, damaged, and dangerous. I love this trope and couldn't wait for her to show him how worthy he was and that he could be cherished just as much as he would cherish her. A very sweet romance with a wonderful couple and found family. More please! 5 stars.

[Hollollolly · Rating 4 out of 5]

The appendix! The author is a real one for giving readers the appendix. There are so many characters, places, jobs, species…and that’s just on their home ship, Varakartoom. The appendix is also handy if you want to jump around reading order or want to read as a standalone.

One thing I love about this series is not every book ends with the couple pregnant or starting a family, and that multiple forms of family, including found family, are represented. This installment is another beautiful example of this.

Do you ever feel so self aware that you’re pretty sure it’s going to kill you? Let me tell ya, Brace can relate. Oh, and what’s this, hello female empowerment! Ruby is all about that life. This was a really sweet addition to this series. There are areas I wish the author had delved deeper into. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Spoilers! Below are the tags I included in my personal tracking that other users may find relevant: alien, fated mates, fmc-ruby, interseries, interspecies, mmc-brace, pregnancy, sci-fi, space, special junk.

Fiction, romance, science fiction, adventurous, hopeful, tense, fast paced
Plot or Character Driven: plot
Strong character development: yes
Lovable characters: yes
Diverse cast of characters: yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: yes

[Nora Ellen (Nbbookery) · Rating 4 out of 5]

After mercenaries board her ship, pregnant Ruby finds herself at the mercy of the crew while they investigate a smuggling issue. She meets the lonely chef of the pirate ship, Brace, who, despite his bloody past and fearful species, is a kind-hearted soul who promises to protect her. He and Ruby finish her planned supply run but don't account for the feelings igniting between them. With a price on their heads, they flee the shipyard. When Brace is discovered, Ruby takes it upon herself to rescue her alien, despite the growing odds and her son's untimely arrival.

Finally, the mysterious chef gets a happily ever after. Since learning a bit about Brace earlier in the series, I've been holding out hope for his story. This one did not disappoint. I loved how he took everything he faced and channeled it into protecting Ruby. His determination to save her from any and all threats made him prime mate material. Ruby was a fun character, and I loved her unwavering dedication and affection for Brace. She didn't care that his people were feared; she only wanted him to feel less lonely. Their bond was wonderful to see, especially that size difference in action! I also enjoyed how the whole crew of the Varakartoom came together to save the day. This is the dream team!

[Sheree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 5 and we are back to the mercenary ship the Varakartoom where they have intercepted Ruby’s ship just as she has discovered smuggled drugs. Fearing the worst the pregnant captain is surprised to be offered care and a room to stay in. One night, when up for a midnight snack, she encounters the mysterious ship chef.

Brace has been hiding out in his galley, refusing to let anyone see him. He thinks he is too violent and unstable to be around. He finds himself fascinated with the pregnant human and unable to do anything else but protect her. He is the grumpy to her sunshine. A male tortured by his past who is determined to protect his mate, despite believing he can’t stay with her. Ruby is drawn to the large, scarred male and recognises his loneliness matches her own. But can he accept her and her baby?

This was a quick paced, action filled read with well-rounded characters. The world building continues to develop, with increasing back story for the different aliens. It was enjoyable to see the previous couples and the mercenaries who are yet to find their mates. The camaraderie between them all is fun to read, with moments of levity to balance out the serious topics. The series has become one of my favourites and I can’t wait to read Solear’s story.

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book, like all the other books by this, Author, I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Captain Ruby González of the freighter spaceship Finix is in a mighty fix, and when she meets Brace who is a Hoxiam, a big blue alien with big, sharp teeth, he believes that she is his fated mate. Brace is the cook on the state-of-the-art ship, the Varakartoom. The spaceship is full of mercenaries who are out to help those who are targeted by pirates and others who want to own other species to fight in their areas or for their nefarious business. Brace believes that Ruby is innocent of what she is accused of, and set out to help her and to protect her and her unborn son. This story is full of action and sweet, steamy moments between the two main characters. The story is told in the point of view of both the main characters and is very enjoyable to read. It is fast paced and even though I haven’t read any of the other books in this series, I thoroughly enjoyed this one. The book ended with the prologue to the next book in the series, which also seems to be something to look forward to.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sentinelle23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

💚🛸CAPTIVATING

On her way to make a delivery to the planet Rummicaron Six, Ruby was bustling around behind the pilot of the Finix spaceship.

They were being followed by a mysterious black ship...

>>>>

This is a great and rather captivating adventure to read, with many twists and turns.

I enjoyed following the tumultuous adventures of the unlikely Ruby/Brace couple.

A very enjoyable read!
I highly recommend it!

####################

💚🛸CAPTIVANT

En route pour une livraison sur la planète Rummicaron Six, Ruby s’agitait derrière le pilote du vaisseau spatial Finix.

Ils étaient suivis par un mystérieux vaisseau noir...

>>>>

Voici une grande aventure plutôt captivante à lire, avec de très nombreux rebondissements et imprévus.

J’ai aimé suivre les tumultueuses aventures de l’improbable couple Ruby/Brace.

Très agréable lecture !
Je recommande vivement !

[Jenia Tortora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby is a freight ship captain but when she discovers her ship is carrying contraband AND she is being followed by a pirate ship she’s very concerned. Being brought aboard the pirates ship she learns that things aren’t what they seem. Pregnant alone and learning her crew betrayed her is hard but the chef on this new ship is a surprise she never expected. Brave is a Hoxiam a race known for their savagery and violence. He’s been more restless lately but when he meets Ruby things shift. Now he’s coming out of hiding to protect her and feeling things he never expected. Ruby knows he would never hurt her and she is drawn to him. They are so sweet and adorable together!!! Brace getting his HEA is perfect!! He’s been this mysterious character for so many books and I love that he finally gets his chance to shine in all his sweet and caring glory.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Zelda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great addition to the series.🥰🥰

This one follows Brace and Ruby. Brace is a huge alien covered with blue fur who loves to cook. He’s always been the mysterious alien in the kitchen (galley) you just don’t know much about. He is an absolute sweetheart but with a terrible past and boy can he turn on the scary vibes. We got to see him learn how to control his rages and hunger all because of Ruby. When Ruby’s ship is boarded she believes her life may be over. Ruby is pregnant from a one night stand and is trying to find and figure out what to do not just for herself but for her baby as well. What she finds instead is a family of misfits and she fits right in. But she proves you can’t judge a book by its cover with Brace and teaches him acceptance and love along the way.

The world building always pulls you in and I’m loving getting to know every character on the Varakartoom and their story. Sooo looking forward to Solears story.

[Ramona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story that's about Brace our solitary cook on the Varakartoom crew and Ruby Gonzalez, Captain of the Finix. Ruby on a night of loneliness selected a well dress man for a night of passion and got pregnant. Ruby discovered that someone on her crew smuggled drugs on her ship. She's being pursued by the Varakartoom who have intel that she's carrying cargo for Jalima their sworn enemy. What occurs when Ruby surrenders to the Varakartoom is a touchy, enjoyable, twisty, action-packed story as Brace volunteers to bodyguard Ruby to her delivery. Can Brace protect her, his mate when he's afraid of harming her when the madness occurs? I'd volunteer to read and review this delightful copy I'd received.

[Harleem · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm absolutely loving this series! It's so similar to her original series (Gladiators of the Vagabond) but because the crew of the Varakartoom are a crew of all sorts of different alien species, each one is unique.

Narrated from a first person point of view, from both the male and female main characters, this story is full of the good stuff: instant connection, forced proximity, fated mates, fiercely protective alien alpha male, independently strong human female… with some action & adventure, a few spicy scenes, and a happy ending thrown in too ;)

I didn't want to put this book down! Now I'm anxiously awaiting for the next book...

I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Didi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always enjoy escaping into a book by this author. Good writing, world building, wonderful characters and storylines that keep you engaged. Captain Ruby González’s ship is taken over and found to have contraband she wasn’t aware of. Pregnant and brought to their ship she meets the ship Varakartoom’s human female mates and they rally around her. A midnight snack changes everything when she meets Brace who is from the Hoxiam who are known for their savagery and violence. I loved their love journey as two lonely souls find acceptance and love. Filled with danger, bonding, found family, vulnerability, humor, suspense and a whole lot of love. Great read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.