Cold Temptation

Ice Planet Rendu #2

by Zoe Ashwood

Zoologist Mika Yadama has her hands full exploring a new alien world - the only problem is that the planet itself keeps trying to kill her. And the one male assigned to be her guide seems to be keeping his distance.

Kol ad Naals wants nothing more than to give in to temptation and drag Mika off to his bed, yet she’s leaving in six weeks. He’s lost enough people already, and he won’t allow himself to care for the human.

That would be easier if she didn’t put herself in constant danger - rescuing her from certain death ties them together whether he likes it or not.

But the environment and the lethal alien species aren’t the only threats to their relationship, and as a series of mysterious break-ins occurs in the capital, Kol’s duty to his queen and his nation must come first. If only it didn’t mean letting go of the only woman he ever wanted to keep.

Cold Temptation is a steamy Sci-Fi alien romance perfect for readers who like sexy alpha males and quirky, independent heroines. It can be read as a sequel to Cold Attraction or as a standalone, and it features a full HEA.

Genres: Romance, Science Fiction

Kindle Edition

First published February 4, 2020

About the author

Zoe Ashwood writes sexy paranormal romance for women who believe in magic and true love.

She's in love with the art of making up stories - and making her characters fall in love.

Get a FREE paranormal romance by joining her newsletter !

You can also find her on: Facebook - Instagram - Pinterest.

Reviews

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

With her, a superficial connection would be impossible. Anything he felt for her now would be increased exponentially every time he saw her, and when she left... He didn't want to lose another loved one, so he would do anything to avoid putting her in that category.

4.5 Ice Blue stars!

For me, this sequel was not as good as the first novel, but still an angsty and enjoyable read. I've been fascinated by Mika and Kol's hot-and-cold relationship since book one, and they sure did not disappoint on that front. They both began developing feelings for the other during their many explorations of Rendu's animal life, but they were both also terrified of rejection and therefore kept pushing the other away. Their push-and-pull courtship was punctuated by plenty of steamy goodness, but I would have liked for there to be a common goal for them to work towards to add some danger and purpose to the plot. But other than me being picky, this was a great alien-romance and a great series overall! Hanne and Lhett have been such mysterious and elusive characters thus far, and I am SO EXCITED for their story, especially after Hanne's cryptic epilogue!!

*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

[Jolie Vines · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so psyched to be back on Rendu with the second of the hot blue alien brothers. I adore Ashwood's take on science fiction romance. Her heroines are no wilting flowers, they are ballsy and smart, and they knock their huge grumpy heroes on their backsides.

Mika is part of a human delegation visiting Rendu to study the planet. She's a zoologist and interested in the animals, including one very dangerous floof that takes a liking to her. Kol is a prince and determined to stifle his attraction to the human. She's leaving in a matter of weeks and he can't face the heartache if he grows attached.

I LOVE the hands-off trope. Of COURSE he's going to fall head over heels. Particularly as he needs to save Mika from a terrible accident.

The way Kol gravitates around Mika was just adorable. They are steamy hot together and I was cheering every time they made a decision that brought them closer together.

Bring on book three! I can't wait.

[Zoe Ashwood]

Hi everyone!

I'm super glad to announce that Cold Temptation is out now!

Here's a little teaser from the story:


Kol unwrapped Mika from several layers of furs he’d piled on her during their journey. He brushed the backs of his knuckles over her pink cheeks and frowned at how cool they were.

“Are you sure you’re not too cold?” he asked. “Do you want to crack some of those warmers we brought?”

This mission would be tricky: he needed to keep Mika from suffering frostbite or hypothermia—he’d learned the words from her and the human doctor, who’d explained to him all the perils of taking a human into the ice caves without proper gear. This was why he was carrying a military-grade tent made of the same material as the Rendian army uniforms.

“I’m fine,” she insisted and pulled off one mitten. Then she placed her hand on his. “Look, warm.”

On instinct, Kol intertwined his fingers with hers. He couldn’t stop touching her, despite his best intentions. There was a reckless inevitability in this moment; having decided to be her guide, he left his reservations behind.

Here, he wasn’t a diplomat, and it didn’t matter that Mika was leaving the planet soon. Here, he was just Kol, and she was the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen.

***********
Ahh, Kol, you amazing man. I loved writing this couple so much! You can read Chapter One on my website or get the book today on Amazon!

Happy reading!
Zoe

[Erin Figueiredo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal Alien Love story!

I love the hot blue alien brothers from Rendu and I couldn't wait to read about Kol and Mika. This story was everything I was hoping for. It had fantastic characters, suspense, intrigue, adventure and a whole lot of very spicy moments. I was enthralled and highly entertained from beginning to end.

Mika is funny, sassy and very smart. Kol is fierce, strong and grumpy (most of the time). But when these two are together the chemistry and the love oozes off the pages. They make a very captivating and sweet couple. And all the hot sexy moments they have are intense and highly combustible.

Zoe Ashwood writes such fantastic characters that I fall deeply in love with them. Her storytelling is phenomenal and utterly captivating. I can't wait for book 3. Highly recommend.

[Sian’s Reading Adventure · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cold Temptation
Ice Plant Rendu #2

“Mika would leave, and he would always miss her.”

I absolutely loved this book, it’s the second one in Zoe’s Ice Plant Rendu Series and I can’t get enough. I love how even though this book is set on an alien plant it’s still so relatable.

The story is about the middle Naals brother, Kol and shows us how he deals with the after math of what happened to the queen and finding his one all at the same time.

Mika is the zoologist of the human delegates and her love for animals is amazing, no matter how troublesome or dangerous they might be. These two characters are amazing and their story is beautiful.

I can’t wait for everyone to get a chance to read it! Out Now!

[sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a new SFR author for me and what a great story it is. Mika, a zoologist is sent to the ice planet Rendu. Kol is her guide to the caves so she can observe. There is an accident, a rescue, life threatening illness, a human betrayal and of course steamy love.

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

[Jennifer Wertz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Cold Temptation! This book is incredible. I love the setting of the alien planet. The book is well written and detailed with great depth of characters. The plot is interesting and engaging. Cold Temptation is exciting and full of adventure and romance. The characters are fantastic and relatable. I really enjoyed reading this and did not want to put the book down. I highly recommend this book!

[Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The great plot was well written and the characters were so well developed that as I turned each page the chemistry between the characters kept me totally hooked until the very last page!
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."

[Raquel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Buckle up because you're in for a ride! I LOVED this sequel to Cold Attraction!!
I was eagerly waiting this story because a) Zoe writes fantastic erotic romances and b) alien world!!
*
Obviously the tension between Mika and Kol did not disappoint. It was a great will they, won't they vibe. There were some great scenes set up between them, I especially liked when Mika wants to go explore an alien animal in some ice caves and Kol reluctantly takes her there. Chaos and sexual tensions ensues.
*
I also just love Mika in general. She's very unsure of herself when it comes to building relationships with other people and being in social settings but her love for animals knows no bounds. I love her belief that all animals are beautiful and should be respected. Her determination for writing the first zoologist/biology book for Rendu is heartwarming and I like that she has a goal and passion outside of just fulfilling her sexual desires.
*
I was definitely looking forward to reading more about Rendu and its world- the animals, climate, how it affects humans, etc. If you haven't read the first book, Rendu is an ice planet and very very cold. There were some great tidbits thrown in here that gave you a better understanding of what secrets this place holds and how versatile the Rendu aliens are. Also, how one small detail of another planet's biology could seriously affect humans. I live in Canada with 7 months of the year being cold and snowy so really, I can relate on a human scale ;)
*
I do sense a lead up to a third story within the series, perhaps between Queen Zeema and Steven (human) as Zeema has been in both stories now and a bridging of politics/love between Rendu/Earth would be very delightful. Zeema is also just doing her best after the events of the first novel so I am really hoping we jump into her head to see what's really going on!
*
Again, another fantastic alien sci-fi romance in the books! It was great and definitely gave me the warm - tingly feeling, definitely rated R! I most definitely recommend although, I do recommend reading Cold Attraction before Cold Temptation for a better understanding of the story.
Happy Reading!

[Vinita P Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful

Once again we have a fated pair of lovers ignorant of each other's customs but still forging their way through the inconsistencies. Each trying to understand the underlying intricacies. One being the human heart n the other the cold nature of the Rendian.
Mika is the human zoologist there on Rendu to study the different species of animal life the planet has. She's never been able to interact as well with people like she does with animals. A fact that presents it when she comes face to face with an alien being mistaking it for some form of wild life. This alien is highly intelligent, tho left alone by the Rendians, n quite poisonous. But it is intrigued by the human, n as it can read her thoughts, allow her to let him. A feeling it finds extremely pleasant n satisfying. No one has ever dared to touch his kind before. Her Rendian escort is slightly terrified n worried that the alien would harm her. His fear unnecessary as he watches the alien bound away after being petted by Mika n licking her hand in farewell. She's in her element as she has a natural affinity for nature. As I said before, it's just human or in this case, Rendian emotions she's having trouble deciphering.
Kol ad Naals has been escorting Mika around Rendu to let her study n photograph the different forms of wildlife living on Rendu. The human delegation has been allowed to stay for several months to study the environment n other activities associated with Rendian life. Each human has a different specialty or degree. He finds Mika fascinating n inexplicably drawn to her but unable to act on his emotions for fear of the repercussions when she returns to Earth. So he pretends that she means nothing to him when all he wants is to do is undress her n caress until she's moaning his name. His indifference has Mika baffled n unsure of herself. Quite a quandary, as each person is truly besotted.
So much intrigue !! As you read this story. Kudos to the author for another trip thru her imagination.

[Toni Glitz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grab a cuppa and a snack and curl up on the sofa with this fun alien romance.

This is the second book in the Ice Planet Rendu trilogy, an Alien Sci-Fi Romance from Zoe Ashwood. The book is set on the mostly inhospitable frozen planet of Rendu and features both human and sentient alien beings. There are several descriptive scenes of consenting inter-species sexual activity between an alien male and a human female.

This is a lighthearted and fun look at alien-human romance. I really enjoyed it. These books are long enough to develop characters and build worlds, yet short enough to read in one sitting. Like book one, this has a Happy Ever After and no cliffhangers. It can be read as a standalone but it is better read as part of the series.

Human zoologist, Mika Yadama, is in her element. A strange new world with an abundance of new creatures to catalogue. She has little fear and no idea which animals are approachable and which want to kill her. Sady for her, it seems that most animals on this planet want to kill her. She’s highly likely to die from petting something she shouldn’t pet. Her guardian for the duration of the human visit is Kol ad Naals, who seems to be keeping as much distance from her as possible now that the political situation on his planet has been resolved. Kol wants Mika more than anyone he’s ever met but she’s leaving with the delegation and he is tied up investigating a series of break-ins. His duty to the new Queen and his people must come first but Mika is distracting and maintaining that distance is not as easy as he thought it would be.

The reading order for this series is as follows:
Book 1: Cold Attraction
Book 2: Cold Temptation

[Proud Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been looking forward to reading this since Zoe announced this world was turning into a series. And I want to lead with the fact that I’m already looking forward to the final instalment. Not that I’m sure when that’s coming out… Hopefully later this yr!

I loved the way the Mika and Kol were fighting their attraction yet fighting to be together as well. Like Cold Attraction, we come in after the initial romantic feelings begin, and get the story after that. In this case we begin at the funeral of the previous King of Rendu.

Unlike the previous book, the drama doesn’t come from external forces and the human need to know more. This time it comes purely from Mika and her desire to know more about the animals of Rendu while also proving to be incredibly unlucky.

I mean, who else falls down a glacier, goes walking in a blizzard and gets sick?

Those trails and tribulations put a lot of pressure on them and their relationship. Following both of them as they learn about the other customs, world, dangers, weaknesses, strengths and their place in each other’s lives was so enjoyable.

I know whenever I read one of Zoe’s book’s I’m in for a quick, fun, action packed romance that’s a little different to her previous books. It feels like with every book she writes she does something a little bit different.

The only thing I was really surprised about was the epilogue. The first book had the epilogue months after from Adriana’s point of view. Having this one be from Hanna’s point of view was quite a surprise. Yet it’s what’s driving my excitement about the final book. So I kinda get why Zoe decided to change her pace for the epilogue this time.

[Allie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cold Temptation by Zoe Ashwood is the second book in the Ice Planet Rendu series. When this book was offered up by the author to read and review, I was elated. I loved the first in the series and was excited to dive back into the world of Rendu and its exciting characters.

Cold Temptation took me a couple of tries to read, but once I started, I could not put my kindle down. From the first book to the second book, you get so much more world-building. With Mika being a zoologist, you get to read about a lot of the world's wildlife. I love animals, so I liked that this book focused on that. The author put a lot of thought and detail into the animals that called Rendu home. Cold Temptation also features a great cast of characters. I loved Kol and Mika and their relationship. While it took a while to build, the wait was worth it. There was also a twist I was not expecting. I had to find out what happened.

Cold Temptation was an excellent addition to the Ice Planet Rendu series. After reading this book, I have to read the third and final book in the series. I am so excited to read the next and to read more by Zoe Ashwood.

*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was better than book 1.
Though ZA’s portrayal of a Japanese woman definitely felt false. First, veganism, while Japan has begun to have few places providing options like this, it is rare amongst the populace. And in the book, Mika is vegan (though Kol grabs her eggs, so…?). Then the fact that she hugs. Hugs, even between friends are rare in Japan, it wouldn’t be an instinctive reaction (which is what happened when Kol said she could meet Oshi). Then small details like calling it “tempura vegetables” in her head. It would have been in reverse, veggie then tempura. Or Kol looking at a picture of her smiling family, if it was candid yes, but smiling adults in a posed photo is rare. Take photos with adults in Japan, often they won’t smile. They’ll make a pleasant face, or sometimes not even, but they don’t usually smile in photos.

Anyhow, aside from these things, I liked Kol and Mika together. I liked the plot in this one, though the end didn’t do a good job of explaining why Graham did what he did, and no future Kol & Mika epilogue which was disappointing.
But next to Lhett and Hanne’s story.

[Vita_Nova · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked everything about this book! The story was solid and the characters were magnificent. I laughed a lot, there was action and, of course, the constant saving Mika's life... Boy, she has Trouble written all of her face! :D I loved Mein and Kol's pet, as well as the connection Mika seems to have with all animals on the planet (deadly or not!) This was the first book I read from this author, but I'll read the first one as well since I want to know Taren and Adriana's story! Also, the ending is quite promising and I was really curious about Hanne from the beginning, so I will definitely read the next one. :)) I hope we'll learn more about Lhett as well since he seems quite mysterious and the exact opposite of Hanne ;)

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

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book accomplished a feat. Not only did I really enjoyed it but it's also the first time I'm giving 5 stars to an alien sci-fi romance book. I was really curious to see how Mika and Kol's story would develop and I was not disappointed. That story is really freaking cute and I might be a little bit in love with Kol even though I kinda wanted to slap him a few times. If you read book 1 in the series, you know that Mika is a Japanese zoologist and Kol is an important alien diplomat from Rendu. After Mika decides that Kol is gonna be her assigned guide/guard, we follow them through all sort of adventures as Mika explore the fauna of Rendu. Speaking of, that blurb was not lying; that planet is really out to get Mika but everything ends up just fine with a really satisfying HEA at the end and a very intriguing epilogue.

[Louise Norton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Mika is a sassy women who is a zoologist exploring new alien world's. Kol is assigned to keep her safe but all he wants to do is take her to bed so he keeps his distance. Only everything is dangerous on an alien world and Kol has to save her. When break ins occur in the capital Lol has to find out who is doing it. But can he put his queen first or will Mika become the most important person in his life. This is a great read with an awesome alien planet and great characters to fall in love with. Give the book a read you will love it.

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

[Elizabeth McDaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mika and her crew were delegates on the planet Rendu. These tall blue aliens had caught a few of the crews eyes. Mika had fallen for Kol but wasn’t sure if she could stay on this cold planet for longer than their planned amount of time. Kol fell hard for the human Mika but if she wouldn’t commit fully to him.....it was all or nothing. Right? Could they stay away from each other? Could they make a relationship work? Could she really give up everything to stay on Rendu for Kol?

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

[Yvonne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good sequel to the first book. I enjoyed it, but not as much as the first. The world building was great and I liked seeing the characters from the first book again. I didn't think the flow for these two main characters was as smooth and I felt there were pieces missing - even though that is probably something that will get covered in book three. Not amazing, but good.

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

[Kristine L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mika is a Zoologist exploring the planet Rendu. She's have problems because everything on that planet is trying to kill her. Kol is her guide to the caves and also protection so she can do her observations. This has so much going on. Hot passion, suspense, mystery, intrigue, danger, life threatening illness. and other human betrayal. Read worthy story. He might not want to care for Mika but he's going to in the end. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the Ice Planet Rendu series a well written story that I was not putting down until I finished reading. I want to read the next book I want to know two things will Jean be okay, and who is the letter to. Extraterrestrial anthropologist Adriana and Taron ad Naals' story, there is suspense, drama, danger, shooting, a traitor, and romance. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carmen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally!

Kol and Mika’s story made me so mad. I could not believe how clueless they both were! He was so busy trying to protect her from herself that he couldn’t see how much he was hurting her. And she was so busy being the Zoologist and Miss Independence that she forgot she was on an alien planet and dealing with an alien male. So, you can tell it was a god story because it pulled a strong reaction out of this reader at any rate. I can’t wait to read Hanne’s story.

[Ashley Carr, LSoR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding follow up to her first book in the series!! The characters were well developed and the storyline was intriguing. It sucked me in from the beginning and with the plot twists it kept me entertained throughout. The chemistry between Mika and Kol is off the charts and the more time they spend together the more they are drawn to each other. This is an exciting alien planet but it is also fraught with dangers. Will Kol be able to keep Mika safe on this hostile planet?

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book drew me right into the story line, immediately. It’s easy to read and the characters are well developed by the author. The story is believable, also. I highly recommend this book! I can't wait to read more!!!!

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

[Connie Best · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting

A good story that catches you up and doesn't let go until you finish it. Then you are looking for the next one. Which unfortunately won't be out til August (groan). Mila and Kol are flawed and wonderful. There is depth to them and you feel like you are right there with them. Ms Ashwood is a terrific story teller.

[Scarolet Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cold Temptation: An Alien Sci-Fi Romance (Ice Planet Rendu Book 2) by Zoe Ashwood is such an awesome read. This is book number two out of three in this awesome series. I can not wait to read the next book in this awesome series and I highly recommend this story to all who loves reading Sci-Fi.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series and it focuses on Kol ad Naals and the human scientist Mika. She's on Rendu to study the animals. They have tumultuous back and forth relationship. Through the whole book he's trying to send her home, but it really is a sweet romance overall as they grow and bond and learn each other. I volunteered to read this book.

[Anca Antoci · Rating 5 out of 5]

I binge-read the books, and I liked Cold Temptation even more than Cold Attraction. To be honest, I had a rough time lately and felt emotionally drained, and these stories kept my mind off my struggles.
It's easy to get lost in a story with strong yet vulnerable characters, suspenseful storyline, adventure, and spicy moments.

[Shylee · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!
This was a great second book! I loved the push and pull that Kol and Mika had. I think that I'd have all the same concerns that Mika had with the progress of her relationship with Kol. I think that relatability is such a huge factor to have in books. Yeah, I can relate so that makes me enjoy it more. I cant wait for the conclusion!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant as always, I thoroughly enjoyed the book I couldn't put it down, can't wait for more,. I would recommend this book to anyone

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