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Pets in Space Anthologies #4
Pets in Space 4
For a limited time only! Pets in Space® 4 is proud to present 13 amazing, original new stories! Join the adventures as today’s leading Science Fiction Romance authors take you on a journey to another world. Pets in Space® proudly supports Hero-Dogs[dot]org, a non-profit charity that provides service animals to veterans and first responders in need. Join New York Times, USA TODAY and Award-winning Bestselling authors S.E. Smith, Anna Hackett, Tiffany Roberts, Veronica Scott, Pauline Baird Jones, Laurie Green, Donna McDonald, Regine Abel, Alexis Glynn Latner, JC Hay, E.D. Walker, Kyndra Hatch, and Cassandra Chandler for another exciting Pets in Space® anthology. Get the stories before they are gone!
Proud supporters of Hero-Dogs[dot]org, Pets in Space® authors have donated over $7,100 in the past two years to help place specially trained dogs with veterans and first responders. Open your hearts and grab your limited release copy of Pets in Space® 4 today!
Cyborg's Revenge by Pauline Baird Jones
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett
Doom by Regine Abel
Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts
Heart of the Spider's Web by J.C. Hay
Import Quarantine by Cassandra Chandler
Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch
Madas's Falling Star by S.E Smith
Nothing Remotely Familiar by Donna McDonald
Spydog by Laurie A. Green
Star Cruise: Idol's Curse by Veronica Scott
The Princess and Her Bodyguard by E.D. Walker
Winter's Prince by Alexis Glynn Latner
Proud supporters of Hero-Dogs[dot]org, Pets in Space® authors have donated over $7,100 in the past two years to help place specially trained dogs with veterans and first responders. Open your hearts and grab your limited release copy of Pets in Space® 4 today!
Cyborg's Revenge by Pauline Baird Jones
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett
Doom by Regine Abel
Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts
Heart of the Spider's Web by J.C. Hay
Import Quarantine by Cassandra Chandler
Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch
Madas's Falling Star by S.E Smith
Nothing Remotely Familiar by Donna McDonald
Spydog by Laurie A. Green
Star Cruise: Idol's Curse by Veronica Scott
The Princess and Her Bodyguard by E.D. Walker
Winter's Prince by Alexis Glynn Latner
1396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2019
366 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Smith
259 books2,572 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 61 reviews
October 8, 2019
Oh lordy this is as always a fabulous way to discover exciting reads whilst at the same time doing some good. This anthology contains a plethora of authors that are consistently giving readers fabulous stories and this is no exception. My review here is for Anna Hacketts offering but rest assured given enough time I will be back with more opinions.
I've always enjoyed the Gladiator series and yes the story included here is shorter than I prefer but still gave me all the feels. A couple who deserve happiness, action scenes to get the heart pumping, humour which completely blindsides the reader with cute possibly antisocial creatures who positively steal any scene they appear in ! Yes I loved Cat but feel anyone who reads this will be keen to read an awful lot more from this group of talented and generous authors.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
I've always enjoyed the Gladiator series and yes the story included here is shorter than I prefer but still gave me all the feels. A couple who deserve happiness, action scenes to get the heart pumping, humour which completely blindsides the reader with cute possibly antisocial creatures who positively steal any scene they appear in ! Yes I loved Cat but feel anyone who reads this will be keen to read an awful lot more from this group of talented and generous authors.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
July 27, 2021
I love the Pets in Space anthologies! I discovered new favorite authors due to previous installments, read new stories by familiar authors and spent hours reading these scifi romance stories with pets. I love the concept and every year I am looking forward to the next Pets in Space. I bought Pets in Space 4 on release day and I plan to read this one through from start to finish. I hope to read a story when I can between arc reads and review obligations. I'll update my review below once I finish a story.
Madas' Falling Star by S.E. Smith
This was a great read. While set in the world of a series by this author, I had no trouble following this story as it tells the background story of two characters and how they fell in love. I liked how both characters looked a bit alien, with their tails, other strange physical differences and the green skin tone of Madas. I would've liked to learn a bit earlier that she had a tail and green skin tough as the first few chapters I thought she looked human.
It has a solid romance. At first they spent time apart while knowing the other is close by, but not directly interacting, which was interesting. Although I did wonder once or twice why Madas never asked Gril for help, but then again she thought his species were dangerous. I liked how they clear that misunderstanding up pretty quickly though. There is dangerous terrain and dangerous wildlife they have to survive and along the way battle their growing attraction. And someone is after Gril as well. The moment their romance progressed felt a bit sudden, but by the end of the story I could definitely feel their romance. I liked both characters, Gril could be a bit possessive, but also let Madas be her own person and trusted her, which I liked. Madas was very capable and I liked how she knew her way around the forest and how to survive and she knew what she wanted out of life.
I liked the pet in this one, it's a sort of combination between a lizard and chameleon with some special powers as well. There are even a few short parts from his point of view which were fun to read. I liked how this creature was a bit alien and the way the author had written him and his personality was fun. He really came to life.
I also liked how a lot of the story took place on this alien planet with nature and animals that are unlike our own. Then there are different plants and ways to survive and I enjoyed reading about this alien planet and how the aliens lived here. I liked how the world felt different enough from our own and I liked reading about it. All in all a solid start of this anthology!
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett
This was a nice little story, but I felt like I was missing something. It follows the romance of a women who has been captured and then saved, now she's save, but can't return home. And she falls in love with a cyborg who has to keep his emotions under control. Most of the backstory is in the past and I felt like I was lacking some information, we're told what happens, but it doesn't have the same impact as actually reading about it.
The characters were likable enough. I liked how she wanted to save the little girl she discovered and how easily she trusts the cyborg. And he has some interesting backstory with strong telepathic powers. I also liked Cat, a cyborg pet, which was a nice touch. There are some great scenes with cat.
The story progressed quite quickly, it didn't feel rushed, but very fast paced. the romance developed a bit quickly and while their romance felt real, I felt like we missed part of that getting to know each other part and understand why they fell for each other. The story is pretty straight forward too. All in all a nice read, but it all progressed a bit quickly and I think you would enjoy it more if you already are familiar with the series.
Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts
I really liked this one, it was a romantic story of two people from different species who meet when they are kids and slowly become close friends. They want to stay together, but the guy's father gets a different post and that separates them. For the years they don't see each other until a chance encounter brings them into contact again.
I liked how we got to see some scenes form them as a kid, so we better understood how close they grew and how even as kids they already knew they wanted to be together even though they didn't understand everything about relationships then. I liked how they both waited for the other, but I thought it was strange neither of them could've found a way to contact the other in all that time. It just seemed a bit weird. I also wish the guy would've tried harder to find her and it felt a bit out of character that he didn't.
I liked both characters, while we don't see a lot of their lives, there's enough to get a feel for them. I liked their romance and how clear it was how much they cared and it was heartwarming to see them reunited after years separate. The guy was an alien, which was interesting and there was enough to get a bit of a feel for these aliens. I also liked the pet in this story, who was a sort of machine pet, who could take on different forms. All in all a great story and I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Star Cruise: Idol's Curse: Veronica Scott
I really enjoyed this one. Having read a few of Veronica Scott's other stories set upon this cruise space ship it was a joy to return there. The story was engaging and fun to read when main character Juli received the task to return a rock to the beach it's former owner took it form. There's a lot more going on when the mysterious rock seems to have unexpected powers. Add in her love interest Steve, his aunt Dian with a cute dog in tow and a few familial side characters form previous stories and this one kept my attention and left my with a happy smile once I finished it.
I liked how the plot line with the stone was the main focus, but the developing romance between the two characters was a big part of the story as well. I liked seeing a bit about Juli's job on board the ship. I was pleased to see a few side characters I remembered form previous stories too. The pet in this one does not belong to the main characters, but Steve's aunt. It was fun to have the pet be involved in this was as Dian and her dog are a big part of the story. All in all a great read.
Cyborgs Revenge by Pauline Baird Jones
Sadly this one was a miss for me. It felt like we got dropped in the middle of a story and it was difficult to figure out what had happened to bring the characters here. The story also felt a bit rushed to me and as I had a hard time getting a feel for the characters and the story it was hard to be invested in what happened. I did like the idea of these humans who were in robot bodies now returning to human forms and the AI that they have in their heads.
Spydog by Laurie Green
This was a decent story, it took me a bit of time to warm up toward the characters. There was a lot of mistrust, not completely without reason, but it still felt a bit like a plot device to keep them on opposite sides. In my opinion this type of enemies to lovers romance doesn't work as well in a shorter read. Then quite suddenly their feelings change, but I did like them more after that as they seemed closer then. I didn't fully feel the romance and their emotions. I liked the stardog, but the male main character seemed a bit rude to her at times. They also seemed a bit too dedicated to the cause at times.
It's clear this is part of a larger universe and the events that happened there I remember bits from previous Pets in Space anthologies, but not everything, so it was hard at times to fully get the impact. There is a time skip which makes sense for this story, but feels a bit anti climactic if you haven't read any of the rest and don't know what exactly happens. All in all this was just an okay story for me and I think it would be more enjoyable if you know the rest of this universe and stories already.
Nothing Remotely Familiar by Donna McDonald
Another okay read. I was in the mood for another Pets in Space story and picked this anthology back up from where I left off. This is another story that's clearly set in an already existing universe, but I found it was easy enough to get a grip on the world and characters. I felt like the author was trying to fit a bit too much into this story, from, Topper and Stark expecting their second child, to their daughter Jessica who gets her first familiar (the pet of this story), a visit to an ice world and a potential romance between Nia and Rigel on said ice planet.
There also was a fair amount of head hopping and switching point of view in the middle of the scene, which threw me off at first. I didn't really care for the part about the pregnancy as that's not my preferred topic to read about. I also feel that seeing more of Topper of Stark might be more fun to those already fans of this series. I didn't feel as invested in Nia and Rigel's potential romance as it felt like we were missing some of the background and with everything else going on it just felt like just another thing going on.
While I didn't enjoy this one as fully as some of the other I still had a fun time reading it. I liked seeing a bit of the worlds and the magic that works there as well as the aliens. I also liked the pet/ familiar in this story and there were some interesting scenes with him.
Doom by Regine Abel
At first I wasn't sure what to think of this one with the almost post apocalyptic vibe of the first part, but I needed up quite enjoying this one. I liked how alien the aliens were. There was this race of bugs that invaded earth and another race that came to help them. I liked the world building and set-up.
I did feel the romance developed a bit quickly, bu that's because of the fated mates trope as well, so it does make sense. I liked how committed these were, but I would've liked to see a bit of just them. This was quite story focused. The ending felt a bit off as it quite quickly spans multiple years to wrap things up. I still enjoyed it mostly and getting a glimpse of the world and aliens this author has created.
Winter's Prince by Alexis Glynn Latner
Heart of the Spider's Web by JC Hay
The Princess and her Bodyguard by E.D. Walker
Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch
Import Quarantine Cassandra Chandler
Madas' Falling Star by S.E. Smith
This was a great read. While set in the world of a series by this author, I had no trouble following this story as it tells the background story of two characters and how they fell in love. I liked how both characters looked a bit alien, with their tails, other strange physical differences and the green skin tone of Madas. I would've liked to learn a bit earlier that she had a tail and green skin tough as the first few chapters I thought she looked human.
It has a solid romance. At first they spent time apart while knowing the other is close by, but not directly interacting, which was interesting. Although I did wonder once or twice why Madas never asked Gril for help, but then again she thought his species were dangerous. I liked how they clear that misunderstanding up pretty quickly though. There is dangerous terrain and dangerous wildlife they have to survive and along the way battle their growing attraction. And someone is after Gril as well. The moment their romance progressed felt a bit sudden, but by the end of the story I could definitely feel their romance. I liked both characters, Gril could be a bit possessive, but also let Madas be her own person and trusted her, which I liked. Madas was very capable and I liked how she knew her way around the forest and how to survive and she knew what she wanted out of life.
I liked the pet in this one, it's a sort of combination between a lizard and chameleon with some special powers as well. There are even a few short parts from his point of view which were fun to read. I liked how this creature was a bit alien and the way the author had written him and his personality was fun. He really came to life.
I also liked how a lot of the story took place on this alien planet with nature and animals that are unlike our own. Then there are different plants and ways to survive and I enjoyed reading about this alien planet and how the aliens lived here. I liked how the world felt different enough from our own and I liked reading about it. All in all a solid start of this anthology!
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett
This was a nice little story, but I felt like I was missing something. It follows the romance of a women who has been captured and then saved, now she's save, but can't return home. And she falls in love with a cyborg who has to keep his emotions under control. Most of the backstory is in the past and I felt like I was lacking some information, we're told what happens, but it doesn't have the same impact as actually reading about it.
The characters were likable enough. I liked how she wanted to save the little girl she discovered and how easily she trusts the cyborg. And he has some interesting backstory with strong telepathic powers. I also liked Cat, a cyborg pet, which was a nice touch. There are some great scenes with cat.
The story progressed quite quickly, it didn't feel rushed, but very fast paced. the romance developed a bit quickly and while their romance felt real, I felt like we missed part of that getting to know each other part and understand why they fell for each other. The story is pretty straight forward too. All in all a nice read, but it all progressed a bit quickly and I think you would enjoy it more if you already are familiar with the series.
Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts
I really liked this one, it was a romantic story of two people from different species who meet when they are kids and slowly become close friends. They want to stay together, but the guy's father gets a different post and that separates them. For the years they don't see each other until a chance encounter brings them into contact again.
I liked how we got to see some scenes form them as a kid, so we better understood how close they grew and how even as kids they already knew they wanted to be together even though they didn't understand everything about relationships then. I liked how they both waited for the other, but I thought it was strange neither of them could've found a way to contact the other in all that time. It just seemed a bit weird. I also wish the guy would've tried harder to find her and it felt a bit out of character that he didn't.
I liked both characters, while we don't see a lot of their lives, there's enough to get a feel for them. I liked their romance and how clear it was how much they cared and it was heartwarming to see them reunited after years separate. The guy was an alien, which was interesting and there was enough to get a bit of a feel for these aliens. I also liked the pet in this story, who was a sort of machine pet, who could take on different forms. All in all a great story and I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Star Cruise: Idol's Curse: Veronica Scott
I really enjoyed this one. Having read a few of Veronica Scott's other stories set upon this cruise space ship it was a joy to return there. The story was engaging and fun to read when main character Juli received the task to return a rock to the beach it's former owner took it form. There's a lot more going on when the mysterious rock seems to have unexpected powers. Add in her love interest Steve, his aunt Dian with a cute dog in tow and a few familial side characters form previous stories and this one kept my attention and left my with a happy smile once I finished it.
I liked how the plot line with the stone was the main focus, but the developing romance between the two characters was a big part of the story as well. I liked seeing a bit about Juli's job on board the ship. I was pleased to see a few side characters I remembered form previous stories too. The pet in this one does not belong to the main characters, but Steve's aunt. It was fun to have the pet be involved in this was as Dian and her dog are a big part of the story. All in all a great read.
Cyborgs Revenge by Pauline Baird Jones
Sadly this one was a miss for me. It felt like we got dropped in the middle of a story and it was difficult to figure out what had happened to bring the characters here. The story also felt a bit rushed to me and as I had a hard time getting a feel for the characters and the story it was hard to be invested in what happened. I did like the idea of these humans who were in robot bodies now returning to human forms and the AI that they have in their heads.
Spydog by Laurie Green
This was a decent story, it took me a bit of time to warm up toward the characters. There was a lot of mistrust, not completely without reason, but it still felt a bit like a plot device to keep them on opposite sides. In my opinion this type of enemies to lovers romance doesn't work as well in a shorter read. Then quite suddenly their feelings change, but I did like them more after that as they seemed closer then. I didn't fully feel the romance and their emotions. I liked the stardog, but the male main character seemed a bit rude to her at times. They also seemed a bit too dedicated to the cause at times.
It's clear this is part of a larger universe and the events that happened there I remember bits from previous Pets in Space anthologies, but not everything, so it was hard at times to fully get the impact. There is a time skip which makes sense for this story, but feels a bit anti climactic if you haven't read any of the rest and don't know what exactly happens. All in all this was just an okay story for me and I think it would be more enjoyable if you know the rest of this universe and stories already.
Nothing Remotely Familiar by Donna McDonald
Another okay read. I was in the mood for another Pets in Space story and picked this anthology back up from where I left off. This is another story that's clearly set in an already existing universe, but I found it was easy enough to get a grip on the world and characters. I felt like the author was trying to fit a bit too much into this story, from, Topper and Stark expecting their second child, to their daughter Jessica who gets her first familiar (the pet of this story), a visit to an ice world and a potential romance between Nia and Rigel on said ice planet.
There also was a fair amount of head hopping and switching point of view in the middle of the scene, which threw me off at first. I didn't really care for the part about the pregnancy as that's not my preferred topic to read about. I also feel that seeing more of Topper of Stark might be more fun to those already fans of this series. I didn't feel as invested in Nia and Rigel's potential romance as it felt like we were missing some of the background and with everything else going on it just felt like just another thing going on.
While I didn't enjoy this one as fully as some of the other I still had a fun time reading it. I liked seeing a bit of the worlds and the magic that works there as well as the aliens. I also liked the pet/ familiar in this story and there were some interesting scenes with him.
Doom by Regine Abel
At first I wasn't sure what to think of this one with the almost post apocalyptic vibe of the first part, but I needed up quite enjoying this one. I liked how alien the aliens were. There was this race of bugs that invaded earth and another race that came to help them. I liked the world building and set-up.
I did feel the romance developed a bit quickly, bu that's because of the fated mates trope as well, so it does make sense. I liked how committed these were, but I would've liked to see a bit of just them. This was quite story focused. The ending felt a bit off as it quite quickly spans multiple years to wrap things up. I still enjoyed it mostly and getting a glimpse of the world and aliens this author has created.
Winter's Prince by Alexis Glynn Latner
Heart of the Spider's Web by JC Hay
The Princess and her Bodyguard by E.D. Walker
Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch
Import Quarantine Cassandra Chandler
October 8, 2019
I love these Sci-fi pet stories!
It’s always so much fun to meet the unusual companions in these delightful stories! I still have a few of them left to read and I know they will be enjoyable.
* Madas’s Falling Star: Lords of Kassis by S. E. Smith
Fascinating story!
I recall Madas and Gril from earlier in the series. The story of their meeting is filled with dangerous treks through forests, over mountains and bog. Madas lead him on a merry chase!
I find the separation of the Tearnat groups, and the way they’ve developed differently over time interesting. L’eon is a most extraordinary, adept pet, although there is some question as to ‘pet’ status! I love it!!
* Dark Guard: House of Rone by Anna Hackett
So much excitement! This short tale is packed with adventures featuring a cyborg with powerful telekinesis abilities, a cyborg hunting cat named Cat, and Calla, a Rellan chef. Cat would let no one harm her people. She’s absolutely amazing! Our telekinetic cyborg , Zaden, is pretty hot. He’s every bit as protective as Cat, and fast falling for Calla. A delightful story!
* Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts
Second-Chance Romance
Well done, with several chapters of earlier years to bring the reader to the current time. Volcair’s intensity, even as a child, draws me in. Kiara’s exuberance and beautiful personality make her perfect for the ‘wound too tight’ Volcair. Cypher is a superb companion/guard and proves his worth as a protector. Incredibly satisfying, even in such a short tale.
* Cyborg’s Revenge: Project Enterprise by Pauline Baird Jones
I do enjoy Cyborgs! Although it seems as if we’ve come in amid an ongoing story arc, the author does a great job of bringing us up to speed regarding this dangerous mission and those who are taking it on. I love the interplay between Rap, Ale, Snake, and the two AIs. Win a battle to take down an evil entity, throw in a sweet bit of romance (they’re shy, what can I say?), and you have an entertaining story!
* Nothing Remotely Familiar: Topper Witch by Donna McDonald
A delightful story in the life of a witch with a most unusual family.
Fun and funny! And, oh, the intrigue - the romance. Jessica’s familiar is quite unusual and certainly wins the day with his timely, critically necessary attacks. Very enjoyable!
* Doom: Xian Warriors by Regine Abel
Excellent! A very exciting introduction to the Xian Warriors who fought to keep the Kryptids from overtaking earth. The battles with the invaders seem relentless. How can they win? Victoria, with her need to help whomever she can, soon runs into Doom and his team. I adore Doom’s companion, a Creckel named Stran. He’s an amazing, intelligent being who makes sure Victoria stays safe while Doom battles Kryptids. I’d love to see more about them!
* The Princess and Her Bodyguard by E D Walker
A really good story, easy to find my way with what’s happening and who is who. I love the princess who is versatile, knowledgeable in far more than royal manners and to whom status doesn’t matter. Jacen, her bodyguard, is highly capable and determined to rescue his love. Pym, her caliba companion is incredibly protective; I think he’s wonderful! Even he gets his own HEA.
* Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch
A very exciting story! Tessa has survived a crash on a hostile desert planet, but will she survive rescue by the enemy? Her pet, Squeak, is an acquisitive, sparkly-loving molk. Incredibly adaptable and considered a scourge by the Karthans. This is a heartwarming story, populated by L’Den, a sexy Karthan cyborg with his not-a-hellhound mogha companion, A’rch, Tessa, her pet Squeak, and numerous secondary characters. I love watching seeing L’Den and Tessa become more and more in tune with each other, and the shenanigans their companions get into!
It’s always so much fun to meet the unusual companions in these delightful stories! I still have a few of them left to read and I know they will be enjoyable.
* Madas’s Falling Star: Lords of Kassis by S. E. Smith
Fascinating story!
I recall Madas and Gril from earlier in the series. The story of their meeting is filled with dangerous treks through forests, over mountains and bog. Madas lead him on a merry chase!
I find the separation of the Tearnat groups, and the way they’ve developed differently over time interesting. L’eon is a most extraordinary, adept pet, although there is some question as to ‘pet’ status! I love it!!
* Dark Guard: House of Rone by Anna Hackett
So much excitement! This short tale is packed with adventures featuring a cyborg with powerful telekinesis abilities, a cyborg hunting cat named Cat, and Calla, a Rellan chef. Cat would let no one harm her people. She’s absolutely amazing! Our telekinetic cyborg , Zaden, is pretty hot. He’s every bit as protective as Cat, and fast falling for Calla. A delightful story!
* Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts
Second-Chance Romance
Well done, with several chapters of earlier years to bring the reader to the current time. Volcair’s intensity, even as a child, draws me in. Kiara’s exuberance and beautiful personality make her perfect for the ‘wound too tight’ Volcair. Cypher is a superb companion/guard and proves his worth as a protector. Incredibly satisfying, even in such a short tale.
* Cyborg’s Revenge: Project Enterprise by Pauline Baird Jones
I do enjoy Cyborgs! Although it seems as if we’ve come in amid an ongoing story arc, the author does a great job of bringing us up to speed regarding this dangerous mission and those who are taking it on. I love the interplay between Rap, Ale, Snake, and the two AIs. Win a battle to take down an evil entity, throw in a sweet bit of romance (they’re shy, what can I say?), and you have an entertaining story!
* Nothing Remotely Familiar: Topper Witch by Donna McDonald
A delightful story in the life of a witch with a most unusual family.
Fun and funny! And, oh, the intrigue - the romance. Jessica’s familiar is quite unusual and certainly wins the day with his timely, critically necessary attacks. Very enjoyable!
* Doom: Xian Warriors by Regine Abel
Excellent! A very exciting introduction to the Xian Warriors who fought to keep the Kryptids from overtaking earth. The battles with the invaders seem relentless. How can they win? Victoria, with her need to help whomever she can, soon runs into Doom and his team. I adore Doom’s companion, a Creckel named Stran. He’s an amazing, intelligent being who makes sure Victoria stays safe while Doom battles Kryptids. I’d love to see more about them!
* The Princess and Her Bodyguard by E D Walker
A really good story, easy to find my way with what’s happening and who is who. I love the princess who is versatile, knowledgeable in far more than royal manners and to whom status doesn’t matter. Jacen, her bodyguard, is highly capable and determined to rescue his love. Pym, her caliba companion is incredibly protective; I think he’s wonderful! Even he gets his own HEA.
* Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch
A very exciting story! Tessa has survived a crash on a hostile desert planet, but will she survive rescue by the enemy? Her pet, Squeak, is an acquisitive, sparkly-loving molk. Incredibly adaptable and considered a scourge by the Karthans. This is a heartwarming story, populated by L’Den, a sexy Karthan cyborg with his not-a-hellhound mogha companion, A’rch, Tessa, her pet Squeak, and numerous secondary characters. I love watching seeing L’Den and Tessa become more and more in tune with each other, and the shenanigans their companions get into!
November 17, 2019
3.69 stars
My overall rating is based on the average of the following stories ratings.
I did skip a few of these stories. They weren’t capturing my attention at the time and I plan to come back to them (if I don’t forget). The overall rating is just for the stories I actually read.
Madas’s Falling Star by S.E. Smith: 5 stars
Enemies to lovers. A pet lizard with mad skills. Stranded Hero. Heroine searching for freedom. Each race has horror stories about the other.
Madas is trying to get away from her planet to escape her mother and an arranged marriage. Gril Tal Mod crash lands on the planet and realizes his plane was sabotaged. With the help of L’eon these two realize there's more to their races than the stories say and that they might be able to help each other. This was a great story filled with great characters, humor, danger, and of course romance.
This story ties into with the Lords of Kassis series but can be read separately without any issue.
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett: 4 stars
Calla Ryss escapes the Edull and ends up with the cyborgs of the House of Rone. She is struggling to find her place and fight her attraction to Zaden. Zaden is a powerful telekinetic who uses cybernetic enhancements to control his powers. He is instantly attracted to Calla but is afraid his power will become a problem. Their relationship was quick and steamy and I loved it.
This is part of a series and I don't recommend reading this book unless you have read the rest of the series (Galactic Gladiator). I think it would be too confusing.
Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts: 5stars
After almost 20 years Volcair is getting a second chance to try and win over Kiara, the woman who has his heart. I was instantly entranced with Volcair and Kiara’s story. Their parting was heartbreaking and I came close to tears. Their reunion was intense and they had a lot to work through but their love shone through.
I loved this story. Volcair and Kiara were great. I loved their reunion. I think I need to read the Infinite City now.
Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse by Veronica Scott: 4 stars
This was quite an interesting story. A sentient rock. A matchmaking aunt and dog. Good luck and bad luck. Thieves and murder.
Juli Shaeffer, Nebula Zephyr’s cruise director, has been tasked with honoring a deceased passengers final wish of returning a cursed/lucky rock to the beach of Tahumaroa. After a lot of weird and unfortunate things keep happening Juli starts to think the owner might have been right about the rock. I liked Juli. She was smart, competent, and knew how to interact with people and make them happy (a skill I envy because I don’t like interacting with people).
Third Officer Steve Aureli is hoping Juli will finally give him a chance again. He finally gets his chance while helping her find the mysterious rock. I liked Steve because he was such a sweetie and never pushed too hard or too fast with Juli. Even though this story takes place over a few days it seemed like a slow building romance between them, which I loved.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and look forward to more.
Cyborg’s Revenge by Pauline Baird Jones:
I am skipping this story because the blurb did not really capture my attention. I might come back to this at the end but we will see.
SpyDog by Laurie A. Green: 4stars
Rigel is making his way to the Network ship with sensitive intell when it explodes. He quickly hides but is found by Sona who says she is also Network but can he trust that. Maura, his spydog, says she is a friend so he reluctantly agrees to let her accompany him to their next pick up point. What follows is a wild ride of these two making their way to the Network base while dealing with their feelings for each other.
I quite liked this one. It was filled with love, heartbreak, and a cute spydog.
Nothing Remotely Familiar by Donna McDonald: 4 stars
Another crazy Topper adventure, but this time it features the whole family. Jessica, her daughter, finally gets assigned her first Familiar and it’s not a normal one. Traveling to Glacier causes unexpected complications with Toppers second pregnancy. An enemy out to get the family. And of course a beautiful goddess.
I quite enjoyed this story. I have enjoyed Topper’s shenanigans over the years and I am glad to see that motherhood hasn’t changed the craziness. I can’t wait to see more from this family because I know they are always up to something.
Doom by Regine Abel: 5 stars
Victoria’s dream of being a small town doctor is destroyed with the Kryptids make contact with earth. As she is fighting to survive and save her patients she meets the alien, Doom. Doom was engineered to eradicate Kryptids. Together these two fight to save the humans and eradicate the enemies while falling more in love with each passing moment.
I loved this story. It was everything I look for in an alien romance. I really hope there will be more books because I really want to see all the brothers find love.
Edit: just saw that there are more books to this series and they are on Unlimited. I am totally going to read them!
Winter’s Prince by Alexis Glynn Latner:
Another skipped story for now.
Heart of the Spider’s Web by JC Hay: 1.5 stars
This story just starts in the middle of what is going on, which was extremely confusing for me. I never understood what actually happened in the world that this is taking place in because of it. I felt like I couldn’t connect with the characters because I didn’t understand the overarching story.
The Princess and Her Bodyguard by E.D. Walker: 4 stars
Princess Liana and her companion Pym has been kidnapped. If her father hadn’t gotten rid of her bodyguard Jacen this wouldn’t have happened. When her kidnappers don’t get the answers they want things escalate Liana fears for her life but before things get bad she is rescued by Jacen.
I quite enjoyed this one. Liana was smart, kind, and can kick some butt when needed. Jacen, her childhood friend and former bodyguard, was tough, smart, and perfect for her. I quite enjoyed their adventures saving each other and saving Pym. They really kicked some ass.
I really want to know more about this world as well. The caliba birds were fascinating and I want to see more of them in the future.
Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch: 4 stars
Tessa has been stranded on a desert planet for two years. She is rescued by the Korthan who are at war with the humans. They offer to help her get home though. She is drawn to L'Den but doesn't understand why.
I enjoyed this one. I liked Tessa and Squeak alot, especially Squeak since he was so unique. I would like to see more stories about the Korthans.
Import Quarantine by Cassandra Chandler: 4 stars
Caitlin, a veterinarian, is woken from sleep for a house call to check on a sick cat. While following Marq to his cat she realizes there is something off with him. He talks weird and doesn’t understand some basic things. She quickly realizes that he is an alien and they have bases on Earth and the moon.
I quite enjoyed this short story. I liked Caitlin and Marq’s quick relationship and their working through the cultural differences. The pet is just a classic cat but it works perfectly for this alien species who has no experience with animals in general. I really hope we get Nika and Buddy’s story next!
My overall rating is based on the average of the following stories ratings.
I did skip a few of these stories. They weren’t capturing my attention at the time and I plan to come back to them (if I don’t forget). The overall rating is just for the stories I actually read.
Madas’s Falling Star by S.E. Smith: 5 stars
Enemies to lovers. A pet lizard with mad skills. Stranded Hero. Heroine searching for freedom. Each race has horror stories about the other.
Madas is trying to get away from her planet to escape her mother and an arranged marriage. Gril Tal Mod crash lands on the planet and realizes his plane was sabotaged. With the help of L’eon these two realize there's more to their races than the stories say and that they might be able to help each other. This was a great story filled with great characters, humor, danger, and of course romance.
This story ties into with the Lords of Kassis series but can be read separately without any issue.
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett: 4 stars
Calla Ryss escapes the Edull and ends up with the cyborgs of the House of Rone. She is struggling to find her place and fight her attraction to Zaden. Zaden is a powerful telekinetic who uses cybernetic enhancements to control his powers. He is instantly attracted to Calla but is afraid his power will become a problem. Their relationship was quick and steamy and I loved it.
This is part of a series and I don't recommend reading this book unless you have read the rest of the series (Galactic Gladiator). I think it would be too confusing.
Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts: 5stars
After almost 20 years Volcair is getting a second chance to try and win over Kiara, the woman who has his heart. I was instantly entranced with Volcair and Kiara’s story. Their parting was heartbreaking and I came close to tears. Their reunion was intense and they had a lot to work through but their love shone through.
I loved this story. Volcair and Kiara were great. I loved their reunion. I think I need to read the Infinite City now.
Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse by Veronica Scott: 4 stars
This was quite an interesting story. A sentient rock. A matchmaking aunt and dog. Good luck and bad luck. Thieves and murder.
Juli Shaeffer, Nebula Zephyr’s cruise director, has been tasked with honoring a deceased passengers final wish of returning a cursed/lucky rock to the beach of Tahumaroa. After a lot of weird and unfortunate things keep happening Juli starts to think the owner might have been right about the rock. I liked Juli. She was smart, competent, and knew how to interact with people and make them happy (a skill I envy because I don’t like interacting with people).
Third Officer Steve Aureli is hoping Juli will finally give him a chance again. He finally gets his chance while helping her find the mysterious rock. I liked Steve because he was such a sweetie and never pushed too hard or too fast with Juli. Even though this story takes place over a few days it seemed like a slow building romance between them, which I loved.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and look forward to more.
Cyborg’s Revenge by Pauline Baird Jones:
I am skipping this story because the blurb did not really capture my attention. I might come back to this at the end but we will see.
SpyDog by Laurie A. Green: 4stars
Rigel is making his way to the Network ship with sensitive intell when it explodes. He quickly hides but is found by Sona who says she is also Network but can he trust that. Maura, his spydog, says she is a friend so he reluctantly agrees to let her accompany him to their next pick up point. What follows is a wild ride of these two making their way to the Network base while dealing with their feelings for each other.
I quite liked this one. It was filled with love, heartbreak, and a cute spydog.
Nothing Remotely Familiar by Donna McDonald: 4 stars
Another crazy Topper adventure, but this time it features the whole family. Jessica, her daughter, finally gets assigned her first Familiar and it’s not a normal one. Traveling to Glacier causes unexpected complications with Toppers second pregnancy. An enemy out to get the family. And of course a beautiful goddess.
I quite enjoyed this story. I have enjoyed Topper’s shenanigans over the years and I am glad to see that motherhood hasn’t changed the craziness. I can’t wait to see more from this family because I know they are always up to something.
Doom by Regine Abel: 5 stars
Victoria’s dream of being a small town doctor is destroyed with the Kryptids make contact with earth. As she is fighting to survive and save her patients she meets the alien, Doom. Doom was engineered to eradicate Kryptids. Together these two fight to save the humans and eradicate the enemies while falling more in love with each passing moment.
I loved this story. It was everything I look for in an alien romance. I really hope there will be more books because I really want to see all the brothers find love.
Edit: just saw that there are more books to this series and they are on Unlimited. I am totally going to read them!
Winter’s Prince by Alexis Glynn Latner:
Another skipped story for now.
Heart of the Spider’s Web by JC Hay: 1.5 stars
This story just starts in the middle of what is going on, which was extremely confusing for me. I never understood what actually happened in the world that this is taking place in because of it. I felt like I couldn’t connect with the characters because I didn’t understand the overarching story.
The Princess and Her Bodyguard by E.D. Walker: 4 stars
Princess Liana and her companion Pym has been kidnapped. If her father hadn’t gotten rid of her bodyguard Jacen this wouldn’t have happened. When her kidnappers don’t get the answers they want things escalate Liana fears for her life but before things get bad she is rescued by Jacen.
I quite enjoyed this one. Liana was smart, kind, and can kick some butt when needed. Jacen, her childhood friend and former bodyguard, was tough, smart, and perfect for her. I quite enjoyed their adventures saving each other and saving Pym. They really kicked some ass.
I really want to know more about this world as well. The caliba birds were fascinating and I want to see more of them in the future.
Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch: 4 stars
Tessa has been stranded on a desert planet for two years. She is rescued by the Korthan who are at war with the humans. They offer to help her get home though. She is drawn to L'Den but doesn't understand why.
I enjoyed this one. I liked Tessa and Squeak alot, especially Squeak since he was so unique. I would like to see more stories about the Korthans.
Import Quarantine by Cassandra Chandler: 4 stars
Caitlin, a veterinarian, is woken from sleep for a house call to check on a sick cat. While following Marq to his cat she realizes there is something off with him. He talks weird and doesn’t understand some basic things. She quickly realizes that he is an alien and they have bases on Earth and the moon.
I quite enjoyed this short story. I liked Caitlin and Marq’s quick relationship and their working through the cultural differences. The pet is just a classic cat but it works perfectly for this alien species who has no experience with animals in general. I really hope we get Nika and Buddy’s story next!
October 15, 2019
I am currently reading all 13 stories in this wonderful anthology but read Veronica Scott's story over the weekend. This review is for her story, Star Cruise: Idol's Curse.
Juli is on a special assignment. A previous passenger has bequeathed a rock from the planet Tahumaroa to the cruise line with specific instructions to return the rock where he took it from years ago. An odd request but nothing Juli hasn’t experienced before as the Nebula Zephyr’s cruise director. But when the rock mysteriously disappears, she wonders what she’s gotten herself into. Strangers are contacting her offering to buy the rock for huge sums of credits (money). There’s no such things as mystical rocks, right?
She’s not so sure anymore and enlists the help of Third Officer Steve Aureli, his Aunt Dian and her pet dog, Charrli to find the missing rock. They better act fact before the rock’s aura of bad luck turns deadly. But things go from bad to worse once they land on the planet. Can Steve protect Juli from harm while she makes every attempt to return the rock where it longs to be?
Blend Love Boat and Star Trek: TNG and you get Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse. There’s a mystery to solve, unrequited love, a visiting aunt, a psychic dog and mysterious mishaps taking place on a ship full of people. From the very first page, I connected with the characters. Each one has its own set of quirks and witty dialogue. I found the inner workings of the ship fascinating and Veronica Scott describes it in intricate detail. The plot moves at an easy pace but there is plenty going on. The supernatural elements surrounding the rock kept me racing through the pages until I reached the conclusion. The romance between Juli and Steve was slow burning at first but then sped up as circumstances put their lives in danger. One of the best stories I’ve read in a long time.
If you love science fiction romance, you’re in for a treat with Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 5+ stars
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...
Juli is on a special assignment. A previous passenger has bequeathed a rock from the planet Tahumaroa to the cruise line with specific instructions to return the rock where he took it from years ago. An odd request but nothing Juli hasn’t experienced before as the Nebula Zephyr’s cruise director. But when the rock mysteriously disappears, she wonders what she’s gotten herself into. Strangers are contacting her offering to buy the rock for huge sums of credits (money). There’s no such things as mystical rocks, right?
She’s not so sure anymore and enlists the help of Third Officer Steve Aureli, his Aunt Dian and her pet dog, Charrli to find the missing rock. They better act fact before the rock’s aura of bad luck turns deadly. But things go from bad to worse once they land on the planet. Can Steve protect Juli from harm while she makes every attempt to return the rock where it longs to be?
Blend Love Boat and Star Trek: TNG and you get Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse. There’s a mystery to solve, unrequited love, a visiting aunt, a psychic dog and mysterious mishaps taking place on a ship full of people. From the very first page, I connected with the characters. Each one has its own set of quirks and witty dialogue. I found the inner workings of the ship fascinating and Veronica Scott describes it in intricate detail. The plot moves at an easy pace but there is plenty going on. The supernatural elements surrounding the rock kept me racing through the pages until I reached the conclusion. The romance between Juli and Steve was slow burning at first but then sped up as circumstances put their lives in danger. One of the best stories I’ve read in a long time.
If you love science fiction romance, you’re in for a treat with Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 5+ stars
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...
October 8, 2019
A darn good collection that let me revisit favored worlds AND jump into new adventures.
Anna Hackett's Dark Guard gave us cyborgs (CYBORGS!) and I LOVE those metal men. Tiffany Roberts' Entwined Fate is a sad/sweet second chance romance that doesn't let the cosmic distance between the stars stop two people who always should have been together find their way. Veronica Scott drops us back on the interstellar cruise ship that's seen its share of craziness since it started its run with Idol's Curse. We got to go back to the beginning of the Kryptid invasion of Earth in Regine Abel's Doom and watch the big alien warrior fall for his very human mate.
These were great additions to the series I'm already invested in PLUS a whole slew of other stories set on distant worlds (or distant star ships!).
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Anna Hackett's Dark Guard gave us cyborgs (CYBORGS!) and I LOVE those metal men. Tiffany Roberts' Entwined Fate is a sad/sweet second chance romance that doesn't let the cosmic distance between the stars stop two people who always should have been together find their way. Veronica Scott drops us back on the interstellar cruise ship that's seen its share of craziness since it started its run with Idol's Curse. We got to go back to the beginning of the Kryptid invasion of Earth in Regine Abel's Doom and watch the big alien warrior fall for his very human mate.
These were great additions to the series I'm already invested in PLUS a whole slew of other stories set on distant worlds (or distant star ships!).
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Want to read
October 9, 2019Did you get your copy yet? Looks like fun and it helps a great cause. Maybe some of us should do a buddy read of it?
October 10, 2019
Let me tell you about a few of my favorites from Pets in Space 4.
Madas’s Falling Star by S.E. Smith is affiliated with a series, but truly stands alone. I did not feel I was missing anything despite not having read any of the Lords of Kassis books. I thoroughly enjoyed the tale of cat and mouse. And no, the pet in this story is neither cat nor mouse. L’eon is Chameleon Lightning Lizard. Just now, typing that, I figured out where L’eon gets his name.
L’eon is more than a pet. He is also a devious little matchmaker. Intelligent, with a ironic definition of the word ‘pet’, he had a pretty major role in this story. Madas and Gril are also intelligent, strong characters, each with their own motivations. If only they knew they wanted the same thing. Fun story!
***
Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts is a refreshing standalone story in the Infinite City series. I relished the first half of the story told from the viewpoint of a child just as he meets the girl who will become so important in his life. A bored son of a diplomat gets dragged to an adult party and meets the surprise of his life. But diplomatic life separated young Volcair and Kiara, perhaps never to be together again. When they part, Volcair gives Kiara his companion Cypher.
But the title, Entwined Fates, is a dead giveaway. Of course they are going to meet again. This time as stubborn, mule-headed adults who refuse to recognize the truths of their long separation. Cypher plays a role in keeping Kiara safe and maybe even a bit of a matchmaker role. I enjoyed the mixing in of the pirates into the plot, to add a spice of danger.
***
While Cyborg’s Revenge by Pauline Baird Jones can be enjoyed as a standalone (sufficient background supplied), having read Maestra Rising did give me a boost up into the story line.
Rap and Ale are two newly created cyborgs. Sort of new. They were once fully human. Then their consciousness was transferred to robots by an evil genius. Then the good guys helped them transfer back to human bodies. Finally, they were enhanced with AI’s and robotic extensions and that made them cyborgs. Now all they want is to live in peace. So, they go after the evil genius that turned them into robots. Hence the word ‘Revenge’ in the title.
It is during this mission that Rap first finds out that Ale is female. That must have been a fun surprise! It is also during this mission that Rap and Ale figure out how much they mean to each other. The former robots trying to figure out their very non-robotic emotions makes for a cute g-rated romance.
The pet in this story is not one most of us would consider to be pet. Snake is handy when you need to transport something into tight places. And makes a good spy when hanging out in those tight places. Snake is loving in a way that only snakes can be.
I like how the author pulled a few characters from a favorite series (Project Enterprise) and gave them their own satisfying happily ever after.
***
Spydog by Lauri A. Green could be called a prequel to Inherit the Stars. It is a standalone, but of all my favorites in this book, it is the one that may need the benefit of having read other books in the series. Mention of secondary characters and also the term ‘Operation Reset’ may have the reader wondering.
Having said that, I will say that Rigel and Sona are absolutely my favorite couple from the book. Totally untrusting of each other from the beginning, but needing to work together to get out of their sticky situation, makes for a lovely enemies to lovers romance, with plenty of danger and even a little humor along the way.
There seems to be all sorts of issues to prevent the Rigel’s and Sona’s HEA, starting with the fact that Rigel is human and Sona is Rathskian and ending with Sona’s own mission. How will it all end?
The title Spydog is Maura, a genetically engineered StarDog who partners with Rigel. She carries information critical to the Network’s efforts to thwart the Alliance. She also likes Sona, which really irritates Rigel. As with many of the animals we all know, Maura is intuitive and knows a good gal when she meets one. Or a bad guy if that happens…..
There is not much contact with bad guys outright. Just a sense of the fact that they are out there. We don’t want to be caught by them. And in the grand scheme, something’s got to give. Hence the missions, spying and the eventual Operation Reset. There are a few run ins with people who should be Rigel’s ally – they are all on the same side. But trust no one seem to be the phrase of the day – just to make completing the mission more challenging, separating Rigel from both Maura and Sona and making it difficult to get to the happily ever after when they meet up again. Don’t worry about that HEA though…..
***
I’d also like to mention and commend The Prince and Her Bodyguard by E.D. Walker, which has not one, but two romances to recommend it! And Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch, which is tied to her After the Fall which I enjoyed so much last year’s Pets in Space 3. Stran from Doom by Regine Abel gets the award for the scariest endearing pet. Charrli from Idol’s Curse by Veronica Scott wins the prize for the pet I most want sitting on my lap.
***
Two things I don’t care for in Pets in Space 4:
1) Multiple characters from existing series without much of their associated background. The great authors can do this and still call the story a standalone. Although, with short stories, I prefer the number of characters be limited. To be fair, fans of those series may actually like the familiar feel this method provides. However, I found two stories that I lost interest in because I do not read the series. There may be other readers that feel the same way about the series authors I read and enjoyed. For that reason, I always try to point out if ‘standalone’ applies to the story.
2) The cover. Bare-chested men are way overdone in SFR. Plus, they do not usually attract me to a book, unless I already know the author’s work. But the style seems to attract other readers, so who am I to judge? Oh yes. I am the reviewer. 🙂
My 5-star rating does not reflect these criticisms, as I have rated only on those stories I am actually reviewing (enjoyed the most!). No two stories are alike! There is enough variety, with 13 original stories, everyone that reads Pets in Space 4 is sure to find their own 5-star story. Probably several stories!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Madas’s Falling Star by S.E. Smith is affiliated with a series, but truly stands alone. I did not feel I was missing anything despite not having read any of the Lords of Kassis books. I thoroughly enjoyed the tale of cat and mouse. And no, the pet in this story is neither cat nor mouse. L’eon is Chameleon Lightning Lizard. Just now, typing that, I figured out where L’eon gets his name.
L’eon is more than a pet. He is also a devious little matchmaker. Intelligent, with a ironic definition of the word ‘pet’, he had a pretty major role in this story. Madas and Gril are also intelligent, strong characters, each with their own motivations. If only they knew they wanted the same thing. Fun story!
***
Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts is a refreshing standalone story in the Infinite City series. I relished the first half of the story told from the viewpoint of a child just as he meets the girl who will become so important in his life. A bored son of a diplomat gets dragged to an adult party and meets the surprise of his life. But diplomatic life separated young Volcair and Kiara, perhaps never to be together again. When they part, Volcair gives Kiara his companion Cypher.
But the title, Entwined Fates, is a dead giveaway. Of course they are going to meet again. This time as stubborn, mule-headed adults who refuse to recognize the truths of their long separation. Cypher plays a role in keeping Kiara safe and maybe even a bit of a matchmaker role. I enjoyed the mixing in of the pirates into the plot, to add a spice of danger.
***
While Cyborg’s Revenge by Pauline Baird Jones can be enjoyed as a standalone (sufficient background supplied), having read Maestra Rising did give me a boost up into the story line.
Rap and Ale are two newly created cyborgs. Sort of new. They were once fully human. Then their consciousness was transferred to robots by an evil genius. Then the good guys helped them transfer back to human bodies. Finally, they were enhanced with AI’s and robotic extensions and that made them cyborgs. Now all they want is to live in peace. So, they go after the evil genius that turned them into robots. Hence the word ‘Revenge’ in the title.
It is during this mission that Rap first finds out that Ale is female. That must have been a fun surprise! It is also during this mission that Rap and Ale figure out how much they mean to each other. The former robots trying to figure out their very non-robotic emotions makes for a cute g-rated romance.
The pet in this story is not one most of us would consider to be pet. Snake is handy when you need to transport something into tight places. And makes a good spy when hanging out in those tight places. Snake is loving in a way that only snakes can be.
I like how the author pulled a few characters from a favorite series (Project Enterprise) and gave them their own satisfying happily ever after.
***
Spydog by Lauri A. Green could be called a prequel to Inherit the Stars. It is a standalone, but of all my favorites in this book, it is the one that may need the benefit of having read other books in the series. Mention of secondary characters and also the term ‘Operation Reset’ may have the reader wondering.
Having said that, I will say that Rigel and Sona are absolutely my favorite couple from the book. Totally untrusting of each other from the beginning, but needing to work together to get out of their sticky situation, makes for a lovely enemies to lovers romance, with plenty of danger and even a little humor along the way.
There seems to be all sorts of issues to prevent the Rigel’s and Sona’s HEA, starting with the fact that Rigel is human and Sona is Rathskian and ending with Sona’s own mission. How will it all end?
The title Spydog is Maura, a genetically engineered StarDog who partners with Rigel. She carries information critical to the Network’s efforts to thwart the Alliance. She also likes Sona, which really irritates Rigel. As with many of the animals we all know, Maura is intuitive and knows a good gal when she meets one. Or a bad guy if that happens…..
There is not much contact with bad guys outright. Just a sense of the fact that they are out there. We don’t want to be caught by them. And in the grand scheme, something’s got to give. Hence the missions, spying and the eventual Operation Reset. There are a few run ins with people who should be Rigel’s ally – they are all on the same side. But trust no one seem to be the phrase of the day – just to make completing the mission more challenging, separating Rigel from both Maura and Sona and making it difficult to get to the happily ever after when they meet up again. Don’t worry about that HEA though…..
***
I’d also like to mention and commend The Prince and Her Bodyguard by E.D. Walker, which has not one, but two romances to recommend it! And Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch, which is tied to her After the Fall which I enjoyed so much last year’s Pets in Space 3. Stran from Doom by Regine Abel gets the award for the scariest endearing pet. Charrli from Idol’s Curse by Veronica Scott wins the prize for the pet I most want sitting on my lap.
***
Two things I don’t care for in Pets in Space 4:
1) Multiple characters from existing series without much of their associated background. The great authors can do this and still call the story a standalone. Although, with short stories, I prefer the number of characters be limited. To be fair, fans of those series may actually like the familiar feel this method provides. However, I found two stories that I lost interest in because I do not read the series. There may be other readers that feel the same way about the series authors I read and enjoyed. For that reason, I always try to point out if ‘standalone’ applies to the story.
2) The cover. Bare-chested men are way overdone in SFR. Plus, they do not usually attract me to a book, unless I already know the author’s work. But the style seems to attract other readers, so who am I to judge? Oh yes. I am the reviewer. 🙂
My 5-star rating does not reflect these criticisms, as I have rated only on those stories I am actually reviewing (enjoyed the most!). No two stories are alike! There is enough variety, with 13 original stories, everyone that reads Pets in Space 4 is sure to find their own 5-star story. Probably several stories!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 10, 2019
Pets that are hilarious!
I am reviewing Nothing Remotely Familiar by Donna McDonald as I was anxious to read an update about Topper and family. I’m a big fan of the author’s so I read this story first. I will review the other stories as soon as I read them.
Okay, NRF had me laughing from the start! Poor Topper is pregnant, with her second child, and this time it is a boy…one who obviously takes after his alien father. His ICE PLANET born alien father. Baby boy is growing at an accelerated rate, always active, and seriously draining Topper’s energy. Add to all this that the unborn baby wants to go to his father’s ice planet until he is born (don’t ask me to tell you how you know; you will have to read it because it is hilarious) and Topper is SO all over the place, emotions-wise. I cannot come close to the author’s telling so you need to read it for yourself.
Topper and Stark have a daughter, Jessica, that they are taking to Stark’s planet for a visit. Jessica receives a familiar, as it is that time in this little witch’s life, and again, I can’t come close to describing him. Hilarious! But he saves the day, imho, and I will never, ever, look at koala bears the same way again.
There’s fun and laughter and snarky jokes…there’s sophisticated, futuristic designs…and murder and mayhem. Loved it and was thrilled to have the chance to revisit this family. And I can’t wait to red about the other ‘pets’ in this set!
I am reviewing Nothing Remotely Familiar by Donna McDonald as I was anxious to read an update about Topper and family. I’m a big fan of the author’s so I read this story first. I will review the other stories as soon as I read them.
Okay, NRF had me laughing from the start! Poor Topper is pregnant, with her second child, and this time it is a boy…one who obviously takes after his alien father. His ICE PLANET born alien father. Baby boy is growing at an accelerated rate, always active, and seriously draining Topper’s energy. Add to all this that the unborn baby wants to go to his father’s ice planet until he is born (don’t ask me to tell you how you know; you will have to read it because it is hilarious) and Topper is SO all over the place, emotions-wise. I cannot come close to the author’s telling so you need to read it for yourself.
Topper and Stark have a daughter, Jessica, that they are taking to Stark’s planet for a visit. Jessica receives a familiar, as it is that time in this little witch’s life, and again, I can’t come close to describing him. Hilarious! But he saves the day, imho, and I will never, ever, look at koala bears the same way again.
There’s fun and laughter and snarky jokes…there’s sophisticated, futuristic designs…and murder and mayhem. Loved it and was thrilled to have the chance to revisit this family. And I can’t wait to red about the other ‘pets’ in this set!
October 9, 2019
Awesome anthology
I primarily purchased this compilation for Anna Hackett and SE Smith’s contributions. Both stories were fantastic, exactly what I expected from each author, and helped advance each storyline. I loved them. That said, I enjoyed all the stories in this anthology. Since I haven’t read the previous stories in those series, I did feel a little lost, but I enjoyed them nonetheless. And I even found a new author to read!
I primarily purchased this compilation for Anna Hackett and SE Smith’s contributions. Both stories were fantastic, exactly what I expected from each author, and helped advance each storyline. I loved them. That said, I enjoyed all the stories in this anthology. Since I haven’t read the previous stories in those series, I did feel a little lost, but I enjoyed them nonetheless. And I even found a new author to read!
November 6, 2019
Phew!
Over 1400 pages (definitely have to count as more than 1 book!)
Overall it is a decent anthology and I am sure most of this genre readers will find something to their liking. As with most collections, there are some stories that I liked more than others and some that I found meh - dull and naive. Nerveless, there was lots space adventures, interesting pets, steamy moments and part of the proceeds from sales goes to a good cause, so not going to complain much.
Over 1400 pages (definitely have to count as more than 1 book!)
Overall it is a decent anthology and I am sure most of this genre readers will find something to their liking. As with most collections, there are some stories that I liked more than others and some that I found meh - dull and naive. Nerveless, there was lots space adventures, interesting pets, steamy moments and part of the proceeds from sales goes to a good cause, so not going to complain much.
October 8, 2019
I love reading all this mischievous and matchmakers little lizards, kitty's, doggies and so many sweet kind animals and the characters too they were great to read some chacaters that we have already heard about were good to hear their stories. It had a mixed of everything you love reading in a sci-fi romance some were more heartfelt then the others but they were still enjoyable and fun to read.
November 18, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I also really liked the cyborg cat. It was shorter than the others in this series, but it is just as interesting and enthralling.
This is a review of Dark Guard by Anna Hackett.
This is a review of Dark Guard by Anna Hackett.
April 21, 2023
Great stories and interesting pets. So far Star Dog or Spy Dog as she is also known is my favorite. Pick this up now. It will not last.
July 12, 2024
I adore the Pets in Space anthology series that always brings a stellar group of authors together both long-time favs and new to mes that find at the very least likeable, but generally fabulous. I've posted up mini-reviews as I went along. Most can standalone fine though they are from existing series. Clever worldbuilding, strong development of characters and romances, and most definitely well-represented by the fabulous pets!
Madas' Falling Star by SE Smith
#4.1 Lords of Kassis
4 stars
Set in a series world, this prequel tells the story of two side characters introduced in a couple of the earlier books. Fans will recognize and appreciate the characters of Gris and Madas with their pet companion while newbies to the series, like me, will appreciate a solid standalone adventure for a crashed pilot needed to repair his ship and leave to find out whose sabotaging him and a runaway eager to get out of a detestable mating by getting off world.
Loved the primitive and hostile forest adventure they were on separately and then, finally, together. Tender and heated getting to know you period, good action and intrigue. I definitely want to go back for the earlier parts of the series.
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett
#5.1 Galactic Gladiators- House of Rone
4 stars
Calla from Rella was rescued along with a human from the slave traders by the powerful cyborgs fighters of the House of Rone. But, now that she's free and safe, she is at a loss and feeling alone. She would gladly explore something with Zaden, a cold cyborg, if he would give them a chance.
Zaden's telekinesis talent destroyed his childhood and exiled him from his homeworld. Magmus took him into the House of Rone. He's buried his emotions along with his Tk, but a pert Calla and a mischievous cyborg cat work at tempting him to give up his stone cold cyborg persona particularly when Calla deliberately puts herself in the crosshairs of those who would gladly steal her back into the slave markets.
This is my second forage into the Galactic Gladiators world and cyborg fight action and steamy romance reminded me that I really wanted to get to the whole series.
Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts
#.5 The Infinite City series
4 stars
Meeting as children who ignore they are different alien races and form a deep friendship and more as teens, Volcair and Kiara, are wrenched apart by Volcair's father's ambassadorial work taking them to a new planet. Eleven years of silence go by and fate brings them a second chance. A shared alien pet part cyber and part shifting sentient animal acts as matchmaker and rescuer when needed.
I've read a few novellas from another Tiffany Roberts series so was anticipating seeing what they did with a different sci-fi world. Another hit. Tender and sexy romance pair, good action scenes, and well built sci-fi worldbuilding.
Star Cruise: Idol's Curse by Veronica Scott
#14 The Sectors
5 stars
Juli is the cruise director aboard the star cruise liner, Nebula Zephyr. An assignment to pick up an object a deceased former passenger asked to be returned to the planet it came from leads to Juli experiencing a bizarre series of events. She doesn't want to believe the rock- because the object to be returned is a mere rock- can be responsible. And, because it seems others really want the rock, she and Steve, the third officer and former military man along with his capable aunt and her dog companion, are now on a real mission to get the odd little rock to its former resting place on Tahumaroa's beach.
Exciting action, fun far future space cruise ship setting, and engaging sexy romance. Love this series.
Cyborg's Revenge by Pauline Baird Jones
#8.5 Project Enterprise #1 Cyborg Chronicles
4.5 stars
Rap was a robot with human sentience who is now placed in a human cyborg body with an onboard separate sentient AI and a BoaConstruct snake companion. Ale his partner on the mission had a similar transition experience though her original race comes with secrets. He's prepping a Forlorn Hope plan that will take his two person team back into the heart of enemy territory for a crippling cyber attack so their crew aboard the Najer and the humans who helped them will be free of the threat from the powerful Q'uy. Between their awkward shyness and an against all odds mission, can the two find a way through and find the words to say.
I adore cyborg sci-fi romances and enjoyed returning for my second short novella in the Project Enterprise world. A super-smart snake companion saves the day!!! Cyborg's Revenge felt like part of an ongoing story and I felt very lost in the first chapter, but the explanations untangled in my mind and I could then focus on a fabulous multi-layered exciting story. Definitely want more of the cyborgs in this new spinoff series.
Spy Dog by Laurie A Green
# Inherited Stars
5 stars
This was my second venture into the Inherited Stars world. Spy Dog is a standalone story set in the midst of a secret rebellion faction of races and people, The Network, working to topple a large and powerful enemy, The Alliance. A Network spy, Nigel, has vital intel stored in his Star Dog, Maura's databanks so he must get to Network command. His escape ship is blown up and he is also joined by Rathskilian female warrior who makes the unlikely claim that she's Network and she needs to get to Network command for her own top secret reasons. He can't quite trust her when her people side the Alliance, but Maura tells him Sona is good people.
Spy action, intrigue, a race across the galaxy, forbidden romance, and a cute pet operative made this a story that captured my interest and my emotions.
Nothing Remotely Familiar by Donna McDonald
#5 Topper Witch - My Alien Romance, Magic NM world
3.5 stars
An interesting blend of paranormal romance and sci-fi romance, this was my first encounter with the Topper Witch series and my second visit to the overall Magic, NM world.
Topper is a powerful witch and she's mate with an alien who comes from an Ice World. Her current pregnancy is complicating matters right when she needs no extra complications. The Fates are messing with her when they send her teenage daughter and unusual Familiar and other strange events are occurring.
Light and easy to get into even though later in the series. I enjoyed the family dynamics and Jessica's 'Drop Bear' Koala with fangs talking familiar.
Doom by Regine Abel
#1 Xian Warriors
4.5 stars
First contact with aliens to earth was horrific. An insectoid alien race had come not to conquer, but to use and annihilate. Victoria, a doctor just out of her residency, is about to be captured when she personally learns that a second group of aliens are heroes and not more enemies. Doom and his amazing sentient animal companion rescue her, slaughter Khryptids and help the beleaguered humans along with his band of genetically-engineered brethren. An exciting, harrowing sci-fi adventure continues as they fight for their very existence together.
A fated mate romance set against an intense action plot hit the spot and now I want the rest of the series as well as try out this new to me author's backlist.
Winter's Prince by Alexis Glynn Latner
Starways Series 4.5 stars
A whole world dedicated to role-playing games based on Old Earth. A few individual gamers join together to search for the grail and then learn that some within the game are playing for keeps. With the help of a mysterious unicorn, a pair not only find a real life mission, but a chance at love.
What a fabulous job of world building and sending the characters on a suspenseful adventure.
Heart of the Spider's Web by JC Hay
#1 Tri-Systems: Smugglers 4.5 stars
The plotting gets real when a government spy is embedded with a ship of smugglers who stole an illegal shipment from a boss criminal. Trying to work a scheme that will protect the small smuggling crew and get her mission done, the government rep is stuck between a rock and a hard place, but no harder than the ship's security officer who is feeling the same attraction and conflict of interest.
Great suspense and action with attraction leading to something more at a good pace.
The Princess and Her Bodyguard by E.D. Walker 4 stars
Captured for a special kind of ransom from her royal father regarding a rare species of sentient and telepathic birds, a princess and her bird familiar despair of rescue until the dashing bodyguard she kissed and was fired comes to her rescue and helps her rescue her bird and another captured bird. A sparkling and fun class difference romance with good action and a delightful alien bird who the author gives plenty of delightful narration time.
Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch 5 stars
#1 Before the Fall
Returning to a familiar world of two clashing peoples in space, this standalone highlights a shipwrecked human rescued by her Korathan enemy and his mogha companion. He discovers his mate is from the enemy race and she discovers that her enemies aren't the evil aliens war propaganda has led her to believe when she and her hidden pet are brought on board the sentient galaxy ship.
I've enjoyed two later novellas in this world. Wonderful sweet, but exciting enemies to lovers cyborg romances.
Import Quarantine by Cassandra Chandler
#11 Department of Homeworld Security
4 stars
I encountered this series once before and had a good time with the sci-fi romantic comedy tone of the book.
This time a hapless human vet, Caitlin, discovers there are aliens up there when one comes looking for a pet doctor for his support cat companion. The attraction is real between Caitlin and Marq even as she is hit by a startling amount of firsts of the alien encounter kind. Only some aliens are more friendly than others and there is a war going on and there are subversive agents on the ship.
Took me a while to get through these because I wanted to appreciate them a few at a time, but the talent represented in this sci-fi romance anthology is prodigious. Not a boring or disappointing read in the pack. A quality read from cover to cover.
My review posted at Books of My Heart on 6.23.24
Madas' Falling Star by SE Smith
#4.1 Lords of Kassis
4 stars
Set in a series world, this prequel tells the story of two side characters introduced in a couple of the earlier books. Fans will recognize and appreciate the characters of Gris and Madas with their pet companion while newbies to the series, like me, will appreciate a solid standalone adventure for a crashed pilot needed to repair his ship and leave to find out whose sabotaging him and a runaway eager to get out of a detestable mating by getting off world.
Loved the primitive and hostile forest adventure they were on separately and then, finally, together. Tender and heated getting to know you period, good action and intrigue. I definitely want to go back for the earlier parts of the series.
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett
#5.1 Galactic Gladiators- House of Rone
4 stars
Calla from Rella was rescued along with a human from the slave traders by the powerful cyborgs fighters of the House of Rone. But, now that she's free and safe, she is at a loss and feeling alone. She would gladly explore something with Zaden, a cold cyborg, if he would give them a chance.
Zaden's telekinesis talent destroyed his childhood and exiled him from his homeworld. Magmus took him into the House of Rone. He's buried his emotions along with his Tk, but a pert Calla and a mischievous cyborg cat work at tempting him to give up his stone cold cyborg persona particularly when Calla deliberately puts herself in the crosshairs of those who would gladly steal her back into the slave markets.
This is my second forage into the Galactic Gladiators world and cyborg fight action and steamy romance reminded me that I really wanted to get to the whole series.
Entwined Fates by Tiffany Roberts
#.5 The Infinite City series
4 stars
Meeting as children who ignore they are different alien races and form a deep friendship and more as teens, Volcair and Kiara, are wrenched apart by Volcair's father's ambassadorial work taking them to a new planet. Eleven years of silence go by and fate brings them a second chance. A shared alien pet part cyber and part shifting sentient animal acts as matchmaker and rescuer when needed.
I've read a few novellas from another Tiffany Roberts series so was anticipating seeing what they did with a different sci-fi world. Another hit. Tender and sexy romance pair, good action scenes, and well built sci-fi worldbuilding.
Star Cruise: Idol's Curse by Veronica Scott
#14 The Sectors
5 stars
Juli is the cruise director aboard the star cruise liner, Nebula Zephyr. An assignment to pick up an object a deceased former passenger asked to be returned to the planet it came from leads to Juli experiencing a bizarre series of events. She doesn't want to believe the rock- because the object to be returned is a mere rock- can be responsible. And, because it seems others really want the rock, she and Steve, the third officer and former military man along with his capable aunt and her dog companion, are now on a real mission to get the odd little rock to its former resting place on Tahumaroa's beach.
Exciting action, fun far future space cruise ship setting, and engaging sexy romance. Love this series.
Cyborg's Revenge by Pauline Baird Jones
#8.5 Project Enterprise #1 Cyborg Chronicles
4.5 stars
Rap was a robot with human sentience who is now placed in a human cyborg body with an onboard separate sentient AI and a BoaConstruct snake companion. Ale his partner on the mission had a similar transition experience though her original race comes with secrets. He's prepping a Forlorn Hope plan that will take his two person team back into the heart of enemy territory for a crippling cyber attack so their crew aboard the Najer and the humans who helped them will be free of the threat from the powerful Q'uy. Between their awkward shyness and an against all odds mission, can the two find a way through and find the words to say.
I adore cyborg sci-fi romances and enjoyed returning for my second short novella in the Project Enterprise world. A super-smart snake companion saves the day!!! Cyborg's Revenge felt like part of an ongoing story and I felt very lost in the first chapter, but the explanations untangled in my mind and I could then focus on a fabulous multi-layered exciting story. Definitely want more of the cyborgs in this new spinoff series.
Spy Dog by Laurie A Green
# Inherited Stars
5 stars
This was my second venture into the Inherited Stars world. Spy Dog is a standalone story set in the midst of a secret rebellion faction of races and people, The Network, working to topple a large and powerful enemy, The Alliance. A Network spy, Nigel, has vital intel stored in his Star Dog, Maura's databanks so he must get to Network command. His escape ship is blown up and he is also joined by Rathskilian female warrior who makes the unlikely claim that she's Network and she needs to get to Network command for her own top secret reasons. He can't quite trust her when her people side the Alliance, but Maura tells him Sona is good people.
Spy action, intrigue, a race across the galaxy, forbidden romance, and a cute pet operative made this a story that captured my interest and my emotions.
Nothing Remotely Familiar by Donna McDonald
#5 Topper Witch - My Alien Romance, Magic NM world
3.5 stars
An interesting blend of paranormal romance and sci-fi romance, this was my first encounter with the Topper Witch series and my second visit to the overall Magic, NM world.
Topper is a powerful witch and she's mate with an alien who comes from an Ice World. Her current pregnancy is complicating matters right when she needs no extra complications. The Fates are messing with her when they send her teenage daughter and unusual Familiar and other strange events are occurring.
Light and easy to get into even though later in the series. I enjoyed the family dynamics and Jessica's 'Drop Bear' Koala with fangs talking familiar.
Doom by Regine Abel
#1 Xian Warriors
4.5 stars
First contact with aliens to earth was horrific. An insectoid alien race had come not to conquer, but to use and annihilate. Victoria, a doctor just out of her residency, is about to be captured when she personally learns that a second group of aliens are heroes and not more enemies. Doom and his amazing sentient animal companion rescue her, slaughter Khryptids and help the beleaguered humans along with his band of genetically-engineered brethren. An exciting, harrowing sci-fi adventure continues as they fight for their very existence together.
A fated mate romance set against an intense action plot hit the spot and now I want the rest of the series as well as try out this new to me author's backlist.
Winter's Prince by Alexis Glynn Latner
Starways Series 4.5 stars
A whole world dedicated to role-playing games based on Old Earth. A few individual gamers join together to search for the grail and then learn that some within the game are playing for keeps. With the help of a mysterious unicorn, a pair not only find a real life mission, but a chance at love.
What a fabulous job of world building and sending the characters on a suspenseful adventure.
Heart of the Spider's Web by JC Hay
#1 Tri-Systems: Smugglers 4.5 stars
The plotting gets real when a government spy is embedded with a ship of smugglers who stole an illegal shipment from a boss criminal. Trying to work a scheme that will protect the small smuggling crew and get her mission done, the government rep is stuck between a rock and a hard place, but no harder than the ship's security officer who is feeling the same attraction and conflict of interest.
Great suspense and action with attraction leading to something more at a good pace.
The Princess and Her Bodyguard by E.D. Walker 4 stars
Captured for a special kind of ransom from her royal father regarding a rare species of sentient and telepathic birds, a princess and her bird familiar despair of rescue until the dashing bodyguard she kissed and was fired comes to her rescue and helps her rescue her bird and another captured bird. A sparkling and fun class difference romance with good action and a delightful alien bird who the author gives plenty of delightful narration time.
Interrupting Starlight by Kyndra Hatch 5 stars
#1 Before the Fall
Returning to a familiar world of two clashing peoples in space, this standalone highlights a shipwrecked human rescued by her Korathan enemy and his mogha companion. He discovers his mate is from the enemy race and she discovers that her enemies aren't the evil aliens war propaganda has led her to believe when she and her hidden pet are brought on board the sentient galaxy ship.
I've enjoyed two later novellas in this world. Wonderful sweet, but exciting enemies to lovers cyborg romances.
Import Quarantine by Cassandra Chandler
#11 Department of Homeworld Security
4 stars
I encountered this series once before and had a good time with the sci-fi romantic comedy tone of the book.
This time a hapless human vet, Caitlin, discovers there are aliens up there when one comes looking for a pet doctor for his support cat companion. The attraction is real between Caitlin and Marq even as she is hit by a startling amount of firsts of the alien encounter kind. Only some aliens are more friendly than others and there is a war going on and there are subversive agents on the ship.
Took me a while to get through these because I wanted to appreciate them a few at a time, but the talent represented in this sci-fi romance anthology is prodigious. Not a boring or disappointing read in the pack. A quality read from cover to cover.
My review posted at Books of My Heart on 6.23.24
September 26, 2020
I am enjoying the Pets in Space#4 anthology because most of these authors are new to me and it’s an been an excellent means for discovering authors in Fantasy/Space Opera fiction with writing styles I appreciate. Sales for Pets in Space #4 supported the non-profit organization Hero Dogs which provides service animals to veterans and 1st responders so it was Win/Win regardless. :D
JULY UPDATE - I just finished SPYDOG by LAURIE GREEN/Pets in Space #4. This was my first book by Laurie A. Green. I enjoyed reading Spydog, an Enemies to More trope romantic space odyssey novella with much more. I recommend Laurie Green to those who prefer reading sci-fi novels for the science & world building, the exploring of various cultures, and for the galactic battles. Some of her other titles are a little darker than I prefer (the antagonists are truly creepy in the Inherited Stars series) but I picked up the series prequel, StarDog, and look forward to reading it.
The novella SPYDOG involves a small bio-engineered animal, Maura (part feline, canine, ferret, and mongoose) which had been trained to work in conjunction with its undercover human partner, MMC/Rigel Blackline (somewhat like a K-9 or SAR partnership, both partners with joint-mind reading capabilities). The FMC/Sona is a trained warrior from a warring planet. Following a large diversionary explosion, Rigel, Maura, and Sona find themselves each requiring a fast exit from the area, preferably off-planet. It seems obvious that Sona and Rigel are enemies. Do they dare trust each other long enough to negotiate a joint escape or will that plan leave just one person standing - and the other very dead?
Reader Cautions -
Violence - yes, minimal. PG/PG-13 level. A few skirmishes with “blasters” and hand-to-hand. Ship explosions off-scene. Brief mention of cannibalism of enemies.
Profanity - yes, very rare (5+/-). Also occasional oaths in “fictional” language.
Sexual situations - yes. Twice, brief (off and on-scene) intimacy in the latter chapters of the book, easily skipped if preferred.
Not recommended for young readers or those who would be offended by the aforementioned.
JUNE 2020 - ANNA HACKETT’S DARK GUARD, Pets in Space #4, has been released in a standalone title with a second story added. I reviewed DARK GUARD separately in Goodreads under the standalone title “GUARD: DARK GUARD” by Anna Hackett. I immediately purchased other (previous) books in the Galactic Gladiators: House of Rone series and have enjoyed reading them. I will be rereading Dark Guard in its new release form (with the additional stories added) soon. :D
JUNE 2020 - I loved! TIFFANY ROBERTS’ENTWINED FATES/Pets in Space #4, and reviewed it separately in Goodreads under the standalone title “Entwined Fates” by Tiffany Roberts. June 2020.
JUNE 2020 - IDOL’S CURSE by VERONICA SCOTT/Pets in Space #4 is another title in this fun anthology. It reminded me of an outer space Loveboat (the 1970-80’s tv series) with light lines and a HEA. I have a trio of titles by Ms Scott in my TBRs to get to soon.
JUNE 2020 - CYBORG’S REVENGE/Pets in Space #4 anthology by PAULINE BAIRD JONES moved quickly, read easily and kept my interest. I connected with the 2 main characters, RaptorR/MMC and AlebatorR/FMC - a man and an alien humanoid woman who had each been captured, stripped of their humanness, turned into robot/computer forms, recently rescued, salvaged and repaired/healed as much as possible ending up as cyborgs prior to the story’s beginning. Rap’s and Ale’s new mission is truly one of human revenge and their survival is no guarantee, yet the story is light, hope-filled with humor and romance, and a sweet HEA. :D. The MMC has a cyborg side-kicked named Snake who is capable of spreading computer viruses from his epidermis skin cells - fascinating idea. I enjoyed Cyborg’s Revenge and promptly checked the author’s other works, downloading several titles. I am very happy with this purchase. I recommend readers of Space Operas, Sci-fi Romance fiction, shifter romances looking for new material check out Pauline Baird Jones’ novels. She writes space opera/fantasy fiction, and several other genres. I will keep my eyes open for any future additions in the Pets in Space series, as well.
Cyborg’s Revenge Reader Cautions - Suitable for anyone.
Violence - PG-13 similar to Star Wars movies.
Profanity- none.
Sexual situations- none.
IMO Cyborg’s Revenge is a suitable space opera novella for any readers of space opera romance/fantasy fiction including YA.
MAY 2020 - I just finished and was absolutely delighted with HEART OF THE SPIDER’S WEB by JC HAY, one of the 13 stories in the anthology Pets in Space 4. I am a fairly new reader of space opera/romantic science fiction so I hadn’t previously heard of JC Hays. He grabbed me in and I went for the ride and how fun it was! I continued into the wee hours of the night (2:45am) not wanting to stop until I reached the very end. Then I promptly picked up 2 more of his books (1 loosely in this series); I am excited to discover what else he has written. I haven’t read any of the other novels in PIS4 yet. I will review them separately as I complete each. If I enjoy them as much as I did HOTSW, I will be totally thrilled. Sales for Pets in Space #4 supported the non-profit organization Hero Dogs which provides service animals to veterans and 1st responders so it was Win/Win regardless. I am very happy with this purchase. :D I suggest readers of Space Operas, Sci-fi Romance fiction, shifter romances looking for new material check out JC Hay’s novels. I will keep my eyes open for any future additions in the Pets in Space series, as well.
Heart of the Spider’s Web is a Sci-fi Romance/Space Opera novel. The FMC/Sheri Tyler is employed as an undercover enforcement agent. Her position requires excellent fighting skills and an ability to deceive as she inserts herself into various situations. Rayan Barr/MMC is the security officer on the Sentinel, a small smuggling ship that flies various illegal deliveries, struggling to survive in their oftentimes violent and lawless galaxy somewhere far, far away in space. Sheri has been assigned to infiltrate herself into Rayan’s crew and bring them in for either discipline, imprisonment, or torture. It’s been just another assignment for Sheri until she discovers lies and corruption deep within the corporation she serves. As shots are fired and lives hang in the balance, where lies her loyalty now?
Heart of Spider’s Web Reader Cautions - This is not a Clean story.
Violence- not graphic. Similar to a PG or PG-13 movie (think Star Wars #4).
Language - yes, very minimal with a few gestures.
Sexual Situations - yes. The 2 main characters have (steamy) on-scene intimacy on several occasions (couple paragraphs?) IMO, the focus of Heart of the Spider’s Web is the action adventure, the developing relationships, the respect and the trust between the characters, not the sexual aspect. Young readers and those who would be offended by the aforementioned, however, should look elsewhere.
JULY UPDATE - I just finished SPYDOG by LAURIE GREEN/Pets in Space #4. This was my first book by Laurie A. Green. I enjoyed reading Spydog, an Enemies to More trope romantic space odyssey novella with much more. I recommend Laurie Green to those who prefer reading sci-fi novels for the science & world building, the exploring of various cultures, and for the galactic battles. Some of her other titles are a little darker than I prefer (the antagonists are truly creepy in the Inherited Stars series) but I picked up the series prequel, StarDog, and look forward to reading it.
The novella SPYDOG involves a small bio-engineered animal, Maura (part feline, canine, ferret, and mongoose) which had been trained to work in conjunction with its undercover human partner, MMC/Rigel Blackline (somewhat like a K-9 or SAR partnership, both partners with joint-mind reading capabilities). The FMC/Sona is a trained warrior from a warring planet. Following a large diversionary explosion, Rigel, Maura, and Sona find themselves each requiring a fast exit from the area, preferably off-planet. It seems obvious that Sona and Rigel are enemies. Do they dare trust each other long enough to negotiate a joint escape or will that plan leave just one person standing - and the other very dead?
Reader Cautions -
Violence - yes, minimal. PG/PG-13 level. A few skirmishes with “blasters” and hand-to-hand. Ship explosions off-scene. Brief mention of cannibalism of enemies.
Profanity - yes, very rare (5+/-). Also occasional oaths in “fictional” language.
Sexual situations - yes. Twice, brief (off and on-scene) intimacy in the latter chapters of the book, easily skipped if preferred.
Not recommended for young readers or those who would be offended by the aforementioned.
JUNE 2020 - ANNA HACKETT’S DARK GUARD, Pets in Space #4, has been released in a standalone title with a second story added. I reviewed DARK GUARD separately in Goodreads under the standalone title “GUARD: DARK GUARD” by Anna Hackett. I immediately purchased other (previous) books in the Galactic Gladiators: House of Rone series and have enjoyed reading them. I will be rereading Dark Guard in its new release form (with the additional stories added) soon. :D
JUNE 2020 - I loved! TIFFANY ROBERTS’ENTWINED FATES/Pets in Space #4, and reviewed it separately in Goodreads under the standalone title “Entwined Fates” by Tiffany Roberts. June 2020.
JUNE 2020 - IDOL’S CURSE by VERONICA SCOTT/Pets in Space #4 is another title in this fun anthology. It reminded me of an outer space Loveboat (the 1970-80’s tv series) with light lines and a HEA. I have a trio of titles by Ms Scott in my TBRs to get to soon.
JUNE 2020 - CYBORG’S REVENGE/Pets in Space #4 anthology by PAULINE BAIRD JONES moved quickly, read easily and kept my interest. I connected with the 2 main characters, RaptorR/MMC and AlebatorR/FMC - a man and an alien humanoid woman who had each been captured, stripped of their humanness, turned into robot/computer forms, recently rescued, salvaged and repaired/healed as much as possible ending up as cyborgs prior to the story’s beginning. Rap’s and Ale’s new mission is truly one of human revenge and their survival is no guarantee, yet the story is light, hope-filled with humor and romance, and a sweet HEA. :D. The MMC has a cyborg side-kicked named Snake who is capable of spreading computer viruses from his epidermis skin cells - fascinating idea. I enjoyed Cyborg’s Revenge and promptly checked the author’s other works, downloading several titles. I am very happy with this purchase. I recommend readers of Space Operas, Sci-fi Romance fiction, shifter romances looking for new material check out Pauline Baird Jones’ novels. She writes space opera/fantasy fiction, and several other genres. I will keep my eyes open for any future additions in the Pets in Space series, as well.
Cyborg’s Revenge Reader Cautions - Suitable for anyone.
Violence - PG-13 similar to Star Wars movies.
Profanity- none.
Sexual situations- none.
IMO Cyborg’s Revenge is a suitable space opera novella for any readers of space opera romance/fantasy fiction including YA.
MAY 2020 - I just finished and was absolutely delighted with HEART OF THE SPIDER’S WEB by JC HAY, one of the 13 stories in the anthology Pets in Space 4. I am a fairly new reader of space opera/romantic science fiction so I hadn’t previously heard of JC Hays. He grabbed me in and I went for the ride and how fun it was! I continued into the wee hours of the night (2:45am) not wanting to stop until I reached the very end. Then I promptly picked up 2 more of his books (1 loosely in this series); I am excited to discover what else he has written. I haven’t read any of the other novels in PIS4 yet. I will review them separately as I complete each. If I enjoy them as much as I did HOTSW, I will be totally thrilled. Sales for Pets in Space #4 supported the non-profit organization Hero Dogs which provides service animals to veterans and 1st responders so it was Win/Win regardless. I am very happy with this purchase. :D I suggest readers of Space Operas, Sci-fi Romance fiction, shifter romances looking for new material check out JC Hay’s novels. I will keep my eyes open for any future additions in the Pets in Space series, as well.
Heart of the Spider’s Web is a Sci-fi Romance/Space Opera novel. The FMC/Sheri Tyler is employed as an undercover enforcement agent. Her position requires excellent fighting skills and an ability to deceive as she inserts herself into various situations. Rayan Barr/MMC is the security officer on the Sentinel, a small smuggling ship that flies various illegal deliveries, struggling to survive in their oftentimes violent and lawless galaxy somewhere far, far away in space. Sheri has been assigned to infiltrate herself into Rayan’s crew and bring them in for either discipline, imprisonment, or torture. It’s been just another assignment for Sheri until she discovers lies and corruption deep within the corporation she serves. As shots are fired and lives hang in the balance, where lies her loyalty now?
Heart of Spider’s Web Reader Cautions - This is not a Clean story.
Violence- not graphic. Similar to a PG or PG-13 movie (think Star Wars #4).
Language - yes, very minimal with a few gestures.
Sexual Situations - yes. The 2 main characters have (steamy) on-scene intimacy on several occasions (couple paragraphs?) IMO, the focus of Heart of the Spider’s Web is the action adventure, the developing relationships, the respect and the trust between the characters, not the sexual aspect. Young readers and those who would be offended by the aforementioned, however, should look elsewhere.
March 23, 2020
The Pets in Space anthologies are a great bargain. A wide range of stories and styles guarantees several 4 and 5 star reads no matter the reader's tastes -- and a portion of the profits goes to Hero Dogs.
Madas's Falling Star S.E. Smith dnf
Dark Guard Anna Hackett 3.5 stars
Part of a larger series, the backstory details tended to bog down the narrative in the early chapters.
Entwined Fates Tiffany Roberts dnf
Star Cruise: Idol's Curse Veronica_Scott 5-stars.
I liked it so much, I went an read an early book that features characters from this story. Star Cruise: Outbreak
Cyborg's Revenge Pauline Baird Jones skipped.
Mid series installment of a series I want to read in order.
Spydog Laurie A. Green 3.5 stars
Nothing Remotely Familiar Donna McDonald 4-stars.
Doom Regine Abel 4-stars
Winter's Prince Alexis Glynn Latner dnf
Heart of the Spider's Web J.C. Hay 4.5 stars
The Princes and Her Bodyguard E.D. Walker dnf
Interrupting Starlight Kyndra Hatch 3.5 stars
Import Quarantine Cassandra Chandler 4 stars.
Madas's Falling Star S.E. Smith dnf
Dark Guard Anna Hackett 3.5 stars
Part of a larger series, the backstory details tended to bog down the narrative in the early chapters.
Entwined Fates Tiffany Roberts dnf
Star Cruise: Idol's Curse Veronica_Scott 5-stars.
I liked it so much, I went an read an early book that features characters from this story. Star Cruise: Outbreak
Cyborg's Revenge Pauline Baird Jones skipped.
Mid series installment of a series I want to read in order.
Spydog Laurie A. Green 3.5 stars
Nothing Remotely Familiar Donna McDonald 4-stars.
Doom Regine Abel 4-stars
Winter's Prince Alexis Glynn Latner dnf
Heart of the Spider's Web J.C. Hay 4.5 stars
The Princes and Her Bodyguard E.D. Walker dnf
Interrupting Starlight Kyndra Hatch 3.5 stars
Import Quarantine Cassandra Chandler 4 stars.
April 30, 2020
Rating individual stories to get overall rating for collection. DNFs=1 star
1-3.5 stars
2-2.5 stars
3- Skipped because I have expanded version of the story to read
4- 3 stars
5-2.5 stars
6-3.5 stars
7-DNF
8-3.5 stars
9- 2.5 stars
10-4 stars This was my favorite of the collection. Fun dialogue. Multiple NB characters including NB pronouns. Lots of action.
11-DNF
12-DNF Because of problematic language choices and life's too short.
13-DNF
Because of all the DNFs, overall rating for the 12 stories I read or attempted to read is a 2.17 stars.
Lesson learned: I will be avoiding anthologies in the future.
-I do not like trying to jump into stories based on pre-existing series with no quick notes to clue me in on what's going on. Seriously, please take a single page to give a paragraph or two summary of the universe and peoples involved to help out those of us who are not reading all of your work. I should not have to spend so much effort trying to figure out if I'm reading about different groups of humans or non-humans.
-There can be some real gems in them, but most are Okay at best.
1-3.5 stars
2-2.5 stars
3- Skipped because I have expanded version of the story to read
4- 3 stars
5-2.5 stars
6-3.5 stars
7-DNF
8-3.5 stars
9- 2.5 stars
10-4 stars This was my favorite of the collection. Fun dialogue. Multiple NB characters including NB pronouns. Lots of action.
11-DNF
12-DNF Because of problematic language choices and life's too short.
13-DNF
Because of all the DNFs, overall rating for the 12 stories I read or attempted to read is a 2.17 stars.
Lesson learned: I will be avoiding anthologies in the future.
-I do not like trying to jump into stories based on pre-existing series with no quick notes to clue me in on what's going on. Seriously, please take a single page to give a paragraph or two summary of the universe and peoples involved to help out those of us who are not reading all of your work. I should not have to spend so much effort trying to figure out if I'm reading about different groups of humans or non-humans.
-There can be some real gems in them, but most are Okay at best.
November 6, 2019
Awesome and amazing stories about Pets in space
There are various authors contributing to this anthology about Pets in Space. I will give a short synopsis but no spoiler alert for each story.
Madas's Falling Star is about Madas watching the skies for any falling stars like the one that L'eon arrived in her planet. L'eon is a lizard who Madas believes he is her pet. Then she meets Grill who fell with his Starfighter had problems. Will they solved both of their problems? This story is so unique that I hope there's more stories in the future.
Dark Guard is about Zaden who is the cyborg and telekinesis. He doesn't know how to love. Calla was rescued by Zaden and the other cyborgs. Zayden also has a cyborg cat. But who is after her? This clan of cyborg is unique and I hope there's more stories in the future.
Entwined Fate is about Volcair, an alien who had blue markings that glow and Kiara, a girl from Earth. They've known each other since childhood and fell in love. But he has been many years since they have been separated through space and time. Will they ever get together? This intriguing stories about two alien cultures can understand each other's through youth.
Star Cruiser: Idol's Curse is about Juli is one of the crew aboard the Star Cruiser and she is supposed to return a rock to a planet that has a curse on it. Steve is a passenger whose pet to keep track of the rock since it keeps disappearing and causing problems where ever it's found. Will Steve and juli be able to return the curse rock to the planet of its origin? I just love stories about Star Cruiser and I hope I collect all of them in the future.
Cyborgs Revenge is about a mission to plant a virus in the interplanetary defenses of the enemy. AI Nelson and Rap, a male cyborg with enhancement and AI Jett and Ale, a female cyborg with enhancement are going back to robot controlled enemy stronghold. Will Ale and Rap along with Snake, a pet succeed and become more than friends? I enjoyed you so much that I would like to read more from this author.
Spy Dog is about a spy named Rigel and his pet Maura is stranded on a planet and they need to go further on to deliver vital Information. They've encountered a female named Sona, also test for delivering some vital Information. Will they succeed in their plans to make the Galaxy safe? I hope there's more stories about spy dogs and star dogs in the future.
Nothing Remotely Familiar is about a pregnant witch named Topper who lives in Magic, New Mexico with her alien husband, Stark and Jessica, her daughter. They are going to Starks planet. She has a couple months ago in the pregnancy but once they reach his planet, she's good near full-term. Will they get the healer there before the baby's born? I certainly hope there's more stories about Topper and her family in the future.
Doom is about alien bug like creatures who wants Earth for the humans to be food for their larvae. Doom is the name of the genetically engineered human/alien dragon who fights off the other aliens. Victoria is a human doctor fighting to save her planet by healing the sick and wounded. Will Victoria and Doom get together and become mates? This is an interesting story about Earth being taken over by aliens well worth while reading.
Latner's Winter Prince is about quests of University students attending a Fair and participating and in a game. Will they attain their quests and succeed in the game? An intriguing and fascinating story about a planet named Wendis,
Heart of the Spider's Web is about Sherri and Rayan Barr trying to stop a criminal called Spider Queen. Sherri is a spy with intcom and Rayan is Security Officer on a spaceship. A goanna lizard is Rayan's pet who is a ferocious fighter when he is upset. Will a spy and a security officer be able to fall in love? This is a very intriguing story which I enjoyed very much.
The Princess and Her Bodyguard is about Jaden being the bodyguard in charge of Liana. He has been in love with her since childhood. He is banished and then Liana is kidnapped along with her Caliba, Pym. Will Jaden save Liana and Pym? This story is fascinating and I hope the author writes more about story.
Interrupting Starlight is about L'Den, an alien who is strangely drawn to Tessa much to the dismay of L'Den's mogha, A'rch. Tessa has her own pet, Squeak. Will Tessa and L' Den overcome their differences? I just love this story and hope they'll be more written in the future by this author.
Import Quarantine is about Marq is an alien and worried about his cat Meredith so he comes to Earth find a veterinarian name Caitlin. He takes her back to his spaceship, but he has enemies. Will they fall in love? I love this quirky story and hope there will be more stories coming from the author.
I love all these characters and scenario written by different authors and enjoyed them very much. I hope they get together for Pets in Space 5 and 6 and 7 and so forth. A 10 stars and highly recommended.
bookwormsuzy
There are various authors contributing to this anthology about Pets in Space. I will give a short synopsis but no spoiler alert for each story.
Madas's Falling Star is about Madas watching the skies for any falling stars like the one that L'eon arrived in her planet. L'eon is a lizard who Madas believes he is her pet. Then she meets Grill who fell with his Starfighter had problems. Will they solved both of their problems? This story is so unique that I hope there's more stories in the future.
Dark Guard is about Zaden who is the cyborg and telekinesis. He doesn't know how to love. Calla was rescued by Zaden and the other cyborgs. Zayden also has a cyborg cat. But who is after her? This clan of cyborg is unique and I hope there's more stories in the future.
Entwined Fate is about Volcair, an alien who had blue markings that glow and Kiara, a girl from Earth. They've known each other since childhood and fell in love. But he has been many years since they have been separated through space and time. Will they ever get together? This intriguing stories about two alien cultures can understand each other's through youth.
Star Cruiser: Idol's Curse is about Juli is one of the crew aboard the Star Cruiser and she is supposed to return a rock to a planet that has a curse on it. Steve is a passenger whose pet to keep track of the rock since it keeps disappearing and causing problems where ever it's found. Will Steve and juli be able to return the curse rock to the planet of its origin? I just love stories about Star Cruiser and I hope I collect all of them in the future.
Cyborgs Revenge is about a mission to plant a virus in the interplanetary defenses of the enemy. AI Nelson and Rap, a male cyborg with enhancement and AI Jett and Ale, a female cyborg with enhancement are going back to robot controlled enemy stronghold. Will Ale and Rap along with Snake, a pet succeed and become more than friends? I enjoyed you so much that I would like to read more from this author.
Spy Dog is about a spy named Rigel and his pet Maura is stranded on a planet and they need to go further on to deliver vital Information. They've encountered a female named Sona, also test for delivering some vital Information. Will they succeed in their plans to make the Galaxy safe? I hope there's more stories about spy dogs and star dogs in the future.
Nothing Remotely Familiar is about a pregnant witch named Topper who lives in Magic, New Mexico with her alien husband, Stark and Jessica, her daughter. They are going to Starks planet. She has a couple months ago in the pregnancy but once they reach his planet, she's good near full-term. Will they get the healer there before the baby's born? I certainly hope there's more stories about Topper and her family in the future.
Doom is about alien bug like creatures who wants Earth for the humans to be food for their larvae. Doom is the name of the genetically engineered human/alien dragon who fights off the other aliens. Victoria is a human doctor fighting to save her planet by healing the sick and wounded. Will Victoria and Doom get together and become mates? This is an interesting story about Earth being taken over by aliens well worth while reading.
Latner's Winter Prince is about quests of University students attending a Fair and participating and in a game. Will they attain their quests and succeed in the game? An intriguing and fascinating story about a planet named Wendis,
Heart of the Spider's Web is about Sherri and Rayan Barr trying to stop a criminal called Spider Queen. Sherri is a spy with intcom and Rayan is Security Officer on a spaceship. A goanna lizard is Rayan's pet who is a ferocious fighter when he is upset. Will a spy and a security officer be able to fall in love? This is a very intriguing story which I enjoyed very much.
The Princess and Her Bodyguard is about Jaden being the bodyguard in charge of Liana. He has been in love with her since childhood. He is banished and then Liana is kidnapped along with her Caliba, Pym. Will Jaden save Liana and Pym? This story is fascinating and I hope the author writes more about story.
Interrupting Starlight is about L'Den, an alien who is strangely drawn to Tessa much to the dismay of L'Den's mogha, A'rch. Tessa has her own pet, Squeak. Will Tessa and L' Den overcome their differences? I just love this story and hope they'll be more written in the future by this author.
Import Quarantine is about Marq is an alien and worried about his cat Meredith so he comes to Earth find a veterinarian name Caitlin. He takes her back to his spaceship, but he has enemies. Will they fall in love? I love this quirky story and hope there will be more stories coming from the author.
I love all these characters and scenario written by different authors and enjoyed them very much. I hope they get together for Pets in Space 5 and 6 and 7 and so forth. A 10 stars and highly recommended.
bookwormsuzy
October 21, 2022
Originally published at Reading Reality
Some of the pets featured in this series may be small, but every book in the collection – and every story in it – is huge. Sometimes literally and sometimes figuratively.
This is a BIG book. At over 1400 pages, it’s a really, really, really big book. Like 30+ HOURS of book. There’s plenty here to sink your reading teeth – or your own pet’s actual teeth, into. Not that all of the pets featured in this series necessarily HAVE teeth, you understand.
And then there’s the supposedly cursed rock, but it isn’t one of the pets. Only the quarry of one.
Like all of the previous books in this series, Pets in Space 4 is a limited run, so if you love science fiction romance as much as I do, it’s worth getting while it’s available, for extended reading pleasure. This isn’t a book you can tackle in one sitting – except possibly on a trans-Pacific flight – if you read very, very fast. There’s a lot of book here to love.
Also, calling the entries in this book “stories” doesn’t really do them justice. The works in this collection are nearly all novella or novellette length. In other words, they are all long enough and meaty enough to have each been released on their own. Reading Pets in Space 4, or any of the Pets in Space collections, is like reading a whole bunch of generally excellent short novels all in one swell foop.
I’ll admit that I haven’t read the whole thing – at least not yet. I’ve been following this series since its inception, and it’s a collection for savoring and dipping into when the mood strikes or when one needs a reading pick-me-up.
So I attacked this the way I usually do. First I dive into the stories that are set in worlds that I’m already familiar with. Which led me to Dark Guard by Anna Hackett, set in her Galactic Gladiators series, Spydog by Laurie A. Green in her Inherited Stars series, Winter’s Prince in Alexis Glynn Latner’s Starways series, and that one with the cursed rock, Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse in Veronica Scott’s Sectors SF series.
They are all excellent, and also completely different. And feature different pets as well. Dark Guard is an exile story. There’s a temporary wormhole, long since closed, and a couple of tribes of slavers that have a lot to answer for. The day is saved in this one by a cyborg cat, named Cat, with that feline tendency to be disobedient and protective at the same time.
Winter’s Prince is all about an amusement park planet, a quest gone wrong, a search for true love and a genetically engineered unicorn. It’s also an excellent followup to my favorite story from the Pets in Space 4 Sampler, The Magic Mountains.
The cybernetically enhanced Spydog Maura, in the story that is of course named for her, knows what’s best for her human and isn’t the least bit shy about making sure it happens – whatever he might think!
And last, but not least from my perspective, the marvelous Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse – my favorite story so far. The story is lovely, the dog Charrli is adorably bouncy, but the rock is ugly. And cursed. Also blessed. Sometimes at the same time. It’s complicated. The rock is complicated. The setting on the intergalactic cruise ship is marvelous, and the romance between the cruise’s events director and the Third Officer is just a perfect little cocktail of a story – complete with paper umbrella.
I’m far from done with this book. I’ve got a couple more entries from familiar series to get into. Then I’ll look for the rest of the cat stories – because my own cats would accept no less. Then I’ll finish with the series entries that I’m less familiar with just to see what new worlds I want to dive into next!
All in all, Pets in Space 4 is an excellent reading time and a more than worthy companion to its predecessors in the series.
Escape Rating A for this out-of-this-world collection!
Some of the pets featured in this series may be small, but every book in the collection – and every story in it – is huge. Sometimes literally and sometimes figuratively.
This is a BIG book. At over 1400 pages, it’s a really, really, really big book. Like 30+ HOURS of book. There’s plenty here to sink your reading teeth – or your own pet’s actual teeth, into. Not that all of the pets featured in this series necessarily HAVE teeth, you understand.
And then there’s the supposedly cursed rock, but it isn’t one of the pets. Only the quarry of one.
Like all of the previous books in this series, Pets in Space 4 is a limited run, so if you love science fiction romance as much as I do, it’s worth getting while it’s available, for extended reading pleasure. This isn’t a book you can tackle in one sitting – except possibly on a trans-Pacific flight – if you read very, very fast. There’s a lot of book here to love.
Also, calling the entries in this book “stories” doesn’t really do them justice. The works in this collection are nearly all novella or novellette length. In other words, they are all long enough and meaty enough to have each been released on their own. Reading Pets in Space 4, or any of the Pets in Space collections, is like reading a whole bunch of generally excellent short novels all in one swell foop.
I’ll admit that I haven’t read the whole thing – at least not yet. I’ve been following this series since its inception, and it’s a collection for savoring and dipping into when the mood strikes or when one needs a reading pick-me-up.
So I attacked this the way I usually do. First I dive into the stories that are set in worlds that I’m already familiar with. Which led me to Dark Guard by Anna Hackett, set in her Galactic Gladiators series, Spydog by Laurie A. Green in her Inherited Stars series, Winter’s Prince in Alexis Glynn Latner’s Starways series, and that one with the cursed rock, Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse in Veronica Scott’s Sectors SF series.
They are all excellent, and also completely different. And feature different pets as well. Dark Guard is an exile story. There’s a temporary wormhole, long since closed, and a couple of tribes of slavers that have a lot to answer for. The day is saved in this one by a cyborg cat, named Cat, with that feline tendency to be disobedient and protective at the same time.
Winter’s Prince is all about an amusement park planet, a quest gone wrong, a search for true love and a genetically engineered unicorn. It’s also an excellent followup to my favorite story from the Pets in Space 4 Sampler, The Magic Mountains.
The cybernetically enhanced Spydog Maura, in the story that is of course named for her, knows what’s best for her human and isn’t the least bit shy about making sure it happens – whatever he might think!
And last, but not least from my perspective, the marvelous Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse – my favorite story so far. The story is lovely, the dog Charrli is adorably bouncy, but the rock is ugly. And cursed. Also blessed. Sometimes at the same time. It’s complicated. The rock is complicated. The setting on the intergalactic cruise ship is marvelous, and the romance between the cruise’s events director and the Third Officer is just a perfect little cocktail of a story – complete with paper umbrella.
I’m far from done with this book. I’ve got a couple more entries from familiar series to get into. Then I’ll look for the rest of the cat stories – because my own cats would accept no less. Then I’ll finish with the series entries that I’m less familiar with just to see what new worlds I want to dive into next!
All in all, Pets in Space 4 is an excellent reading time and a more than worthy companion to its predecessors in the series.
Escape Rating A for this out-of-this-world collection!
December 3, 2019
Madas' Falling Star, S.E. Smith - (Madas & Gril) This seemed familiar when I started reading, remembered the little lizard creature (L'eon) from a previous anthology. The expanded mythology was slightly confusing, but an entertaining story. L'eon is pretty cute.
Dark Guard, Anna Hackett - (Calla & Zaden) I like this series and this author overall, but I've read too many in a row and they definitely have a formula.
Entwined Fates, Tiffany Roberts - (Kiara & Volcair) I don't think I've read this author before, but this is definitely one of the best stories I've read so far and I'm interested in checking out the series it's part of. Interesting to see alien diplomacy at work, rather than the usual invasion romances.
Star Cruise: Idol's Curse, Veronica Scott - skipped this one for now as I think I want to read all of these novellas in order.
Cyborg's Revenge, Pauline Baird Jones - (Ale & Rap) Interesting, but whoa was it confusing to figure out what had gone on before this story started! Still not sure, but I'm over it.
SpyDog, Laurie A. Green - (Sona & Rigel) This one seemed so familiar when I started reading that I was sure I'd read it before. According to Goodreads I haven't read anything by this author, but I did like this story so maybe that will change.
Nothing Remotely Familiar, Donna McDonald - (Topper & ??) Skipped this one. Again, I swear I've read a story with these characters, but didn't note it on Goodreads. I know I didn't really click with it though. This is part of a "Kindle Worlds" series and I think I've read a novella set in this world, but written by another author, so maybe that's why this seemed familiar?
Doom, Regine Abel - (Victoria & Doom) Interesting concept, but the time jumps were weird. The first part of the story is slow and then all of a sudden we're jumping ahead by months and years and getting a summary of what's happened to the characters.
Winter's Prince, Alexis Glynn Latner - (Sara & Kev) Ren Fest in Spaaaaaaace! I actually really liked this one and it did a good job of telling a complete story and balancing worldbuilding with action - and I'm always up for a sexy adventurous academic. Will definitely see if the author has written more set in this world.
Heart of the Spider's Web, JC Hay - (Sherri & Rayan) I swear that I read the start of this story in another anthology, but maybe I'm making that all up! Another pretty good story, I felt caught up since I have a phantom memory of the events that took place right before the beginning of this story. I like this author's other story in the Pets anthology that I've read, so I will be adding more from them to my TBR list.
The Princess and Her Bodyguard, E.D. Walker - (Liana & Jacen) Cute and fluffy, with a dual romance line for the princess and her pet bird.
Interrupting Starlight, Kyndra Hatch - (Tess & L'Den) Set in the same world as the author's story in the previous anthology, but earlier than that one. Took me a while to remember the events of that and the more detailed descriptions of the mogha in that story, but I did like this and will add the full-length books from this series to my TBR.
Import Quarantine, Cassandra Chandler - (Caitlin & Marq) A cute story overall, but I would have liked more time for the hero & heroine to get to know one another before making plans for the future. I did like the fact that the cat was named Meredith (my sister's middle name!).
Dark Guard, Anna Hackett - (Calla & Zaden) I like this series and this author overall, but I've read too many in a row and they definitely have a formula.
Entwined Fates, Tiffany Roberts - (Kiara & Volcair) I don't think I've read this author before, but this is definitely one of the best stories I've read so far and I'm interested in checking out the series it's part of. Interesting to see alien diplomacy at work, rather than the usual invasion romances.
Star Cruise: Idol's Curse, Veronica Scott - skipped this one for now as I think I want to read all of these novellas in order.
Cyborg's Revenge, Pauline Baird Jones - (Ale & Rap) Interesting, but whoa was it confusing to figure out what had gone on before this story started! Still not sure, but I'm over it.
SpyDog, Laurie A. Green - (Sona & Rigel) This one seemed so familiar when I started reading that I was sure I'd read it before. According to Goodreads I haven't read anything by this author, but I did like this story so maybe that will change.
Nothing Remotely Familiar, Donna McDonald - (Topper & ??) Skipped this one. Again, I swear I've read a story with these characters, but didn't note it on Goodreads. I know I didn't really click with it though. This is part of a "Kindle Worlds" series and I think I've read a novella set in this world, but written by another author, so maybe that's why this seemed familiar?
Doom, Regine Abel - (Victoria & Doom) Interesting concept, but the time jumps were weird. The first part of the story is slow and then all of a sudden we're jumping ahead by months and years and getting a summary of what's happened to the characters.
Winter's Prince, Alexis Glynn Latner - (Sara & Kev) Ren Fest in Spaaaaaaace! I actually really liked this one and it did a good job of telling a complete story and balancing worldbuilding with action - and I'm always up for a sexy adventurous academic. Will definitely see if the author has written more set in this world.
Heart of the Spider's Web, JC Hay - (Sherri & Rayan) I swear that I read the start of this story in another anthology, but maybe I'm making that all up! Another pretty good story, I felt caught up since I have a phantom memory of the events that took place right before the beginning of this story. I like this author's other story in the Pets anthology that I've read, so I will be adding more from them to my TBR list.
The Princess and Her Bodyguard, E.D. Walker - (Liana & Jacen) Cute and fluffy, with a dual romance line for the princess and her pet bird.
Interrupting Starlight, Kyndra Hatch - (Tess & L'Den) Set in the same world as the author's story in the previous anthology, but earlier than that one. Took me a while to remember the events of that and the more detailed descriptions of the mogha in that story, but I did like this and will add the full-length books from this series to my TBR.
Import Quarantine, Cassandra Chandler - (Caitlin & Marq) A cute story overall, but I would have liked more time for the hero & heroine to get to know one another before making plans for the future. I did like the fact that the cat was named Meredith (my sister's middle name!).
August 7, 2020
The Pets in Space anthologies are some of the best around and #4 is no exception with never before stories in some of the most amazing worlds not of this one. This years edition let me revisit S.E. Smith's Lords of Kassis series with the fleshed out tale of Madas and Gril and how they came to be. Anna Hackett's Dark Guard is a fast paced story from her new House of Rone series that tells the story of Calla and Zaden. these two are hot and the action is intense. Veronica Scott's Star Cruise: Idol's Curse takes us back to the Nebula Zephyr and her crew. Juli finally gets her story!
These are my favorites but I have been introduced to so many new authors and their tales of beings and their companions.
Most importantly, the profits from the first month's sales of this limited edition anthology goes to a wonderful cause Hero-Dogs.org, a non-profit that provides service animals o veterans & first responders in need. Having a service animal has been proven to help with the overall well being of those who have experienced things most of us never do. Training these animals is expensive so organization like Hero-Dogs provide something that is priceless. Check it out. Enjoy
These are my favorites but I have been introduced to so many new authors and their tales of beings and their companions.
Most importantly, the profits from the first month's sales of this limited edition anthology goes to a wonderful cause Hero-Dogs.org, a non-profit that provides service animals o veterans & first responders in need. Having a service animal has been proven to help with the overall well being of those who have experienced things most of us never do. Training these animals is expensive so organization like Hero-Dogs provide something that is priceless. Check it out. Enjoy
October 24, 2019
I love sci-fi romance and especially when there are pets involved! Three of the stories were wonderful and I would definitely read them again. A few stories were entertaining to read once, but no plans to read again. The rest were merely ok or boring. The three that were wonderful are:
Madas’s Falling Star by S.E. Smith Can be fully enjoyed without having read any of her other connected stories. There is lots of action, humor, mystery, suspense, and romance to keep you entertained. L’eon is just adorable and full of surprises!
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett This can be read as a stand-alone, but it is even more exciting when read in order. There is lots of action, humor, high and low tech, and romance. The ending is exciting with a HEA for the main characters and no cliff hanger.
Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse by Veronica Scott This is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone. This has mystery, suspense, action, humor, interesting characters, and romance. This definitely has some twists I didn’t see coming.
Madas’s Falling Star by S.E. Smith Can be fully enjoyed without having read any of her other connected stories. There is lots of action, humor, mystery, suspense, and romance to keep you entertained. L’eon is just adorable and full of surprises!
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett This can be read as a stand-alone, but it is even more exciting when read in order. There is lots of action, humor, high and low tech, and romance. The ending is exciting with a HEA for the main characters and no cliff hanger.
Star Cruise: Idol’s Curse by Veronica Scott This is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone. This has mystery, suspense, action, humor, interesting characters, and romance. This definitely has some twists I didn’t see coming.
October 14, 2019
Zaden from the House Of Rhone has had to have his telekinesis powers shut down with cyborg enhancements so he does not loose control and hurt anyone. He lives his life with no emotional attachments until he and member's of the House Of Rhone cyborgs gladiators rescue Calla and Sage from the Edull. Calla is from Rella and now knows that she can never return home. She is slowly getting used to her new home and coming to terms with the cybernetic heart that the healers had to use to save her life. She is also very attracted to Zaden with his silver eyes and handsome face. I love how Zaden introduces her to Cat the cybernetic feline who has adopted Zaden as his owner. Danger is stalking Calla, the Edull want her back and it will be up to Zaden and Cat to try to stop them along with other House Of Rhone Gladiators. I have not read the other books in this anthology yet, this review is only for Anna Hackett who gifted me a review copy. Thank you. Totally enjoyable story.
November 12, 2019
Another great entry in this anthology series combining light romance, SF and, well, yes, pets of all descriptions who get in on the space adventure. Be forewarned that the book is long, mostly because the stories tend more to novella size than true short-story length, but, what the heck, more to love, right?
My personal faves were by authors Pauline Baird Jones, Veronica Scott, Laurie A. Green, J.C. Hay and Kyndra Hatch. There were a couple of others I struggled through. I did skip one or two of the titles based on their blurbs; I won't mention which ones. But in a collection of stories and authors this varied, no reader is going to like every take on the theme. The best stories combined likeable characters, believable pets, real romance and a premise that showed that spark of originality.
Overall, a fun read and a worthy addition to the series.
My personal faves were by authors Pauline Baird Jones, Veronica Scott, Laurie A. Green, J.C. Hay and Kyndra Hatch. There were a couple of others I struggled through. I did skip one or two of the titles based on their blurbs; I won't mention which ones. But in a collection of stories and authors this varied, no reader is going to like every take on the theme. The best stories combined likeable characters, believable pets, real romance and a premise that showed that spark of originality.
Overall, a fun read and a worthy addition to the series.
October 8, 2019
My review is for Dark Guard by Anna Hackett.
Calla Ryss was rescued from her nightmare but was she safe? Control was most important for Zaden. His emotions had made him dangerous and now, the little Rella was making him… feel! She had been feeling non worthy and he had saw himself as guilty but now there was something more at stake that they had to face. With an intriguing and fierce cyborg cat and the House of Rone cyborgs, Calla and Zaden had to battle the forces of evil. Action, adventure, strong attraction, suspense, violence, romance and passion in this story that kept me reading until the end. Interesting, lovely and entertaining how these two young cyborgs found in each other what they needed.
Calla Ryss was rescued from her nightmare but was she safe? Control was most important for Zaden. His emotions had made him dangerous and now, the little Rella was making him… feel! She had been feeling non worthy and he had saw himself as guilty but now there was something more at stake that they had to face. With an intriguing and fierce cyborg cat and the House of Rone cyborgs, Calla and Zaden had to battle the forces of evil. Action, adventure, strong attraction, suspense, violence, romance and passion in this story that kept me reading until the end. Interesting, lovely and entertaining how these two young cyborgs found in each other what they needed.
October 13, 2019
SCI-FI SIZZLING ROMANCE
“Dark Guard by Anna Hackett” is a romantic tale that takes place on the planet Carthago. Notorious aliens take pleasure in kidnapping individuals into slavery. Inside this story you’ll find powerful hero rescues, deadly danger, spine-chilling action, witty banter, a pesky intelligent cyborg cat, sizzling romance and a happy forever.
Zaden, is a powerful cyborg and must keep his emotions in check or he becomes a deadly force. Calla, a beauty spent quite a few fearsome months as a captive of the vicious Edull until powerful cyborgs came to rescue her. Zaden’s emotions skyrocket with fiery desires for Calla. Together the face horrific danger before reaching their happy forever. Fascinating sci-fi read.
“Dark Guard by Anna Hackett” is a romantic tale that takes place on the planet Carthago. Notorious aliens take pleasure in kidnapping individuals into slavery. Inside this story you’ll find powerful hero rescues, deadly danger, spine-chilling action, witty banter, a pesky intelligent cyborg cat, sizzling romance and a happy forever.
Zaden, is a powerful cyborg and must keep his emotions in check or he becomes a deadly force. Calla, a beauty spent quite a few fearsome months as a captive of the vicious Edull until powerful cyborgs came to rescue her. Zaden’s emotions skyrocket with fiery desires for Calla. Together the face horrific danger before reaching their happy forever. Fascinating sci-fi read.
October 8, 2019
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett is one of the 13 short stories that make up Pets in Space 4 and my choice for review. Dark Guard is part of the Galactic Gladiators: House of Rone series and focuses on recently rescued Calla Ryss and the cyborg gladiator Zaden and Cat, a cyborg enhanced feline. Cat has made appearances in other House of Rone books but this is her time to shine as she decides Calla is her person. Calla was captured by the Thraxians and sold to the Edull; she was rescued along with Sage by the House of Rone. Calla is accompanies the cyborgs to the market and Cat decides to go along as well. In the market someone tries to kidnap Calla. Cat comes to the rescue whilst the cyborgs chase the kidnappers.
May 29, 2020
Had to read my favorite first...
Nothing Remotely Familiar brings another chapter in the life of Topper and Stark. Their first born Jessica is a teenager and it time for her to get a familiar, just when they’re going to Stark’s home planet of Glacier. Jessica is a perfect and annoying mix of Topper and Stark, and her assigned familiar is a cool change from the usual cat. Added to that, Topper is heavily pregnant, but it’s not time to give birth, right? Of course, hilarity ensues. I love seeing more of he Glacians. Their culture and their very physiology is fascinating. This is a really cool short read.
Nothing Remotely Familiar brings another chapter in the life of Topper and Stark. Their first born Jessica is a teenager and it time for her to get a familiar, just when they’re going to Stark’s home planet of Glacier. Jessica is a perfect and annoying mix of Topper and Stark, and her assigned familiar is a cool change from the usual cat. Added to that, Topper is heavily pregnant, but it’s not time to give birth, right? Of course, hilarity ensues. I love seeing more of he Glacians. Their culture and their very physiology is fascinating. This is a really cool short read.
October 3, 2019
Dark Guard by Anna Hackett
Zaden is one of the younger cyborgs. His implants were forced onto him by his father after a youthful outburst caused tragedy.
Calla was kidnapped by the Thraxians and saved by Zaden and the other House of Rone Gladiators. Now on the mend she feels useless. Her family didn't think much of her culinary talents but she wants to get back to what she excelled at.
Add in a cute, arrogant, nosy and not a little psychic robocat and you have yourself a surefire passionate adventure!
Zaden is one of the younger cyborgs. His implants were forced onto him by his father after a youthful outburst caused tragedy.
Calla was kidnapped by the Thraxians and saved by Zaden and the other House of Rone Gladiators. Now on the mend she feels useless. Her family didn't think much of her culinary talents but she wants to get back to what she excelled at.
Add in a cute, arrogant, nosy and not a little psychic robocat and you have yourself a surefire passionate adventure!
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