What do you think?
Rate this book
Love After Earth #1
The Hunter's Heart
I thought my job sucked. But I’m about to be sold as a breeder to a seven-foot panther-man, so things can get worse…much worse.
Zensah is the reluctant leader of his nearing-extinction tribe. He’d thought he was paying the passage for willing settlers, not abducted females. If only he’d trusted his instincts and refused the trade. But then he would never have met Poppy, the brave human leader whose beautiful eyes burn with courage and defiance. She’s the only female he’s ever yearned to claim as his mate. But will she ever accept him?
When Poppy fights her captors, Zensah and his men help the humans escape, but find themselves stranded in the wild territories of his home planet. Determined to live independently, Poppy asks Zensah to teach her survival skills on their journey to her rendezvous with her fellow humans. She should hate him… Except she’s never felt so alive.
Reader advisory: This book contains scenes of abduction and some violence.
Zensah is the reluctant leader of his nearing-extinction tribe. He’d thought he was paying the passage for willing settlers, not abducted females. If only he’d trusted his instincts and refused the trade. But then he would never have met Poppy, the brave human leader whose beautiful eyes burn with courage and defiance. She’s the only female he’s ever yearned to claim as his mate. But will she ever accept him?
When Poppy fights her captors, Zensah and his men help the humans escape, but find themselves stranded in the wild territories of his home planet. Determined to live independently, Poppy asks Zensah to teach her survival skills on their journey to her rendezvous with her fellow humans. She should hate him… Except she’s never felt so alive.
Reader advisory: This book contains scenes of abduction and some violence.
- GenresScience FictionRomance
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 18, 2021
About the author
Astrid Sharpe
2 books4 followersI write fun, sexy science fiction romance, with seven-foot panther-men.
I'm delighted to be publishing my Love After Earth alien-abduction romance series with Totally Bound Publishing. I live in East London with my husband, two children and two cats.
I'm delighted to be publishing my Love After Earth alien-abduction romance series with Totally Bound Publishing. I live in East London with my husband, two children and two cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
April 23, 2021
**I was provided with an ARC for an honest review.**
For a sexy alien book, this was weirdly long (prolonging the actual sex part I wanted) and world-building got alotta attention
Zensah the local chief of Relicais planet discovers this strange pale thing that doesn't speak the proper language
“She shouts a word I do not understand, “NA-UW!”, then lets out a high-pitched scream. The other females do the same, and I cover my ears in pain. The sound is horrific. It pierces my skull like a blade. Is this their defense mechanism?”
Poppy was captured from Earth, meant to be sold, they revolted against the evil aliens! Only to learn the new aliens had no idea they were unwilling.
It was like a mail-order-bride gone horribly wrong situation. Now they are trapped on this insane jungle planet with no resources ... till a certain sexy alien shows up *Cheering!*
Poppy was cute and had an inner strength, but she was a pretty generic character. She was just known for wanting a better life while providing some chuckle-worthy commentary on all the shit going on. no other personality traits besides the whole wanting to survive. which is valid. but also kinda generic.
“Now got the biggest crush on a giant, alien-panther-man.
I need a psychiatrist.
I need to sit down.
I shudder as I imagine all sorts of alien creepy-crawlies writhing beneath the giant leaves.”
It was cute the two of them with Poppy learning the new planet and Zensah being in awe of this powerful woman that traveled among the stars to find him... BUT WHERE WAS THE SEX
"The wild should be afraid of her, she is the most powerful creature I have ever met.”
His protective instincts and her bravery was the perfect beginning couple to introduce readers
Some of the other captured girls were Ceri, Anna, Harpreet indicates that definitely going to be continuing so yay more books. My prediction is that this couple is next:
“They are wise. The wild is no place for those without proper training,” grumbles Burok, as if he has said this same phrase many times before.
“Oh, fuck off, Burok!” snaps Harpreet, and I’m surprised when Burok merely flicks his tail in irritation”
World-building wise, I was DEFINITELY surprised by the amount of forethought that went into the world.
Like this is very obviously an alien romance but the author tried to build up the tension with details that perfectly encaptured the danger of the new planet
''Zensah’s next words send a wave of dread and horror through my body as I watch the bloody carnage. "The shadow pack can smell death from many teks away. If the Prime has the kill’s heart, it will not want your own.”
scary as fuck ammiright?
My biggest critique is that for being a fun smut alien read... they didn't even KISS till like the friggen 13th chapter.
I am not even kidding. While there was some fun banter and attraction, there was noooo sexy sexy fun action for HALF the book. So it kinda made parts feel wayyyyyy longgggger than it should've/suppose to be in its genre. I wanted more intimacy and physical touch to be more incorporated throughout the book. Not an all-or-nothing situation.
Overall the book is exactly like the cover shows -- alien, fun, and sexy read.
For a sexy alien book, this was weirdly long (prolonging the actual sex part I wanted) and world-building got alotta attention
Zensah the local chief of Relicais planet discovers this strange pale thing that doesn't speak the proper language
“She shouts a word I do not understand, “NA-UW!”, then lets out a high-pitched scream. The other females do the same, and I cover my ears in pain. The sound is horrific. It pierces my skull like a blade. Is this their defense mechanism?”
Poppy was captured from Earth, meant to be sold, they revolted against the evil aliens! Only to learn the new aliens had no idea they were unwilling.
It was like a mail-order-bride gone horribly wrong situation. Now they are trapped on this insane jungle planet with no resources ... till a certain sexy alien shows up *Cheering!*
Poppy was cute and had an inner strength, but she was a pretty generic character. She was just known for wanting a better life while providing some chuckle-worthy commentary on all the shit going on. no other personality traits besides the whole wanting to survive. which is valid. but also kinda generic.
“Now got the biggest crush on a giant, alien-panther-man.
I need a psychiatrist.
I need to sit down.
I shudder as I imagine all sorts of alien creepy-crawlies writhing beneath the giant leaves.”
It was cute the two of them with Poppy learning the new planet and Zensah being in awe of this powerful woman that traveled among the stars to find him... BUT WHERE WAS THE SEX
"The wild should be afraid of her, she is the most powerful creature I have ever met.”
His protective instincts and her bravery was the perfect beginning couple to introduce readers
Some of the other captured girls were Ceri, Anna, Harpreet indicates that definitely going to be continuing so yay more books. My prediction is that this couple is next:
“They are wise. The wild is no place for those without proper training,” grumbles Burok, as if he has said this same phrase many times before.
“Oh, fuck off, Burok!” snaps Harpreet, and I’m surprised when Burok merely flicks his tail in irritation”
World-building wise, I was DEFINITELY surprised by the amount of forethought that went into the world.
Like this is very obviously an alien romance but the author tried to build up the tension with details that perfectly encaptured the danger of the new planet
''Zensah’s next words send a wave of dread and horror through my body as I watch the bloody carnage. "The shadow pack can smell death from many teks away. If the Prime has the kill’s heart, it will not want your own.”
scary as fuck ammiright?
My biggest critique is that for being a fun smut alien read... they didn't even KISS till like the friggen 13th chapter.
I am not even kidding. While there was some fun banter and attraction, there was noooo sexy sexy fun action for HALF the book. So it kinda made parts feel wayyyyyy longgggger than it should've/suppose to be in its genre. I wanted more intimacy and physical touch to be more incorporated throughout the book. Not an all-or-nothing situation.
Overall the book is exactly like the cover shows -- alien, fun, and sexy read.
June 1, 2021
4 Stars
The Hunter’s Heart is the first book in the Love After Earth series, and debut novel by Astrid Sharpe. This is a superb sci-fi romance, with all the ingredients needed to make it a captivating read. This story is so well-written, with vivid scene setting and fantastic characters. Ms. Sharpe’s world building is clever and creative- she crafted a world that came to life before my eyes, making what I was ‘seeing’ and the events that transpired, completely believable and ‘real’. She has given me a taste for her stories, and I can’t wait to get my hands on her next book/s. She is an author I will definitely be following closely from now on. #engagestalkermode
Poppy was snatched up on her way home from work one night- and wakes up to find aliens have abducted her for some ‘breeding’ program. Could things get any worse!!! But no spoilers here. Get set for an exciting ride!! Things are about to take a strange turn- but one you won’t want to miss!!
A fantastic start to a new series, and wonderfully original offering for a debut novel.
Bring on Book #2!
Thank you, Astrid Sharpe!
The Hunter’s Heart is the first book in the Love After Earth series, and debut novel by Astrid Sharpe. This is a superb sci-fi romance, with all the ingredients needed to make it a captivating read. This story is so well-written, with vivid scene setting and fantastic characters. Ms. Sharpe’s world building is clever and creative- she crafted a world that came to life before my eyes, making what I was ‘seeing’ and the events that transpired, completely believable and ‘real’. She has given me a taste for her stories, and I can’t wait to get my hands on her next book/s. She is an author I will definitely be following closely from now on. #engagestalkermode
Poppy was snatched up on her way home from work one night- and wakes up to find aliens have abducted her for some ‘breeding’ program. Could things get any worse!!! But no spoilers here. Get set for an exciting ride!! Things are about to take a strange turn- but one you won’t want to miss!!
A fantastic start to a new series, and wonderfully original offering for a debut novel.
Bring on Book #2!
Thank you, Astrid Sharpe!
April 5, 2021
*ARC provided by author for an honest review*
Black Panther meets Avatar a fantastic debut novel 4.5 stars!!!!
This a Astrid Sharpe's debut novel and all I can say is WOW!!! It is highly imaginative, descriptive and well written told from the point of view of both our leading characters which I love as I'm always left wondering what's going through the male leads head when it's told by the heroines point of view alone.
The story is about five women from the U.K who are abducted to be sold as breeders/mates to a species of panther-like men called the Relicai. The telling of their abduction and subsequent escape was fast paced which was great as I always tend to speed read those parts to get to the good stuff. In this case I didn't have to wait long as our heroes were introduced by chapter 2. This tale is based on Poppy (yeah my mind went there lol to the trolls movie) a single fish and chip shop worker from south London who was courageous, smart and funny. Our leading male was Zensah, the leader of the Relicai who was described as tall, muscular with amber eyes and a flat wide nose, fangs, black leather soft skin and hands with three fingers and a thumb which had a pad in the center and retractable claws. I found that when I thought of him I envisioned him looking like the superhero Black Panther as at first when I saw the cover I couldn't get over how much our leading male looked completely like a panther and nothing like his description of a panther man hybrid. I just kept envisioning Poppy making out with an actual wild animal and getting mauled and bitten which was grose to be honest but thanks to her description of him and my imagination I was able to get rid off that awful image. I find that book covers are the selling point of a book, it's what draws you in and I'd hate for this book to be passed over based solely on that point, for people to see what I saw and not give it a chance as they'd be missing out on a fascinating story. What I was left to wonder about though was whether they had hair on their heads?? This isn't mentioned and when Poppy brought up his ears she just said they were pointed..... so are they like elves ears on the sides of his head or like an animals on the top of his head?? I just wasn't sure as they have many similarities to humans.
Their story was packed full of action and adventure with Zensah introducing Poppy to his world and teaching her the fundamentals to survive and thrive in his jungle home. His world reminded me of Avatar (minus the neon colours) with the humongous trees for climbing and living in, large insects, animals and flowers of all kinds, a diverse and unspoiled Eco system. Poppy grew as a person whilst there, she gained self confidence and strength believing in herself after living a hard and lonely life.
The romance between our main characters was a slow simmer, tortuously slow actually. Zensah had such self control he could have been a saint. Charming, patient, honorable, kind and valiant he was a woman's dream and I admire Poppy for holding out as long as she did. He was the traditional sort not wanting just a fling but a life long commitment so he resisted his attraction to her with a steely resolve. I definitely would have liked to have seen his iron will crumble under his uncontrollable desire for her and not been so chivalrous. To have been so overcome with passion that he'd just thought 'fuck it' and ravished her especially when she gave him a very blatant go ahead but alas that is not who our sweet Zensah is.
Their intimate scenes were HOT but I felt their was something missing especially for their first time and what that thing turned out to be was that their was no communication between them during the act other than to say 'I love you' to each other. No sexy talk at all to each other, no encouraging words of delight, what you find arousing about your partner or what your feeling for that matter which heightens emotions and the scene all at once. At least the next time they were intimate Poppy was in fact a little vocal with her pleasure though it was a shame that Zensah is still to utter even a single word during the act. I do have a query though about his anatomy, Poppy mentions after seeing his large equipment that she had noticed some extras on him but nothing was mentioned when they actually had sex which was a shame.
There are a few plot twist which were unexpected keeping you hooked throughout the story which was great. Not even the second book in the series is want you think is likely to come next because as you get towards the end of the book you will find that the author has way more planned for our four remaining single ladies than just each book being about them finding their way through the jungle towards the Relicai's village. I was beyond thrilled to learn that the next book will be Burok's and Harpreet's as I'm captivated by him especially after finding out about his back story and all he's been through. I have a feeling that the dynamic between them is gonna be intense and explosive as these two seem to have an angry/hate thing going on that I love and fingers crossed for some bun in the oven action (seeing as someone has had a certain ritual performed already).
Highly recommend this book to all Sci-fi romance fans especially you lovers out there of a certain sexy Black Panther, you won't be disappointed.
Black Panther meets Avatar a fantastic debut novel 4.5 stars!!!!
This a Astrid Sharpe's debut novel and all I can say is WOW!!! It is highly imaginative, descriptive and well written told from the point of view of both our leading characters which I love as I'm always left wondering what's going through the male leads head when it's told by the heroines point of view alone.
The story is about five women from the U.K who are abducted to be sold as breeders/mates to a species of panther-like men called the Relicai. The telling of their abduction and subsequent escape was fast paced which was great as I always tend to speed read those parts to get to the good stuff. In this case I didn't have to wait long as our heroes were introduced by chapter 2. This tale is based on Poppy (yeah my mind went there lol to the trolls movie) a single fish and chip shop worker from south London who was courageous, smart and funny. Our leading male was Zensah, the leader of the Relicai who was described as tall, muscular with amber eyes and a flat wide nose, fangs, black leather soft skin and hands with three fingers and a thumb which had a pad in the center and retractable claws. I found that when I thought of him I envisioned him looking like the superhero Black Panther as at first when I saw the cover I couldn't get over how much our leading male looked completely like a panther and nothing like his description of a panther man hybrid. I just kept envisioning Poppy making out with an actual wild animal and getting mauled and bitten which was grose to be honest but thanks to her description of him and my imagination I was able to get rid off that awful image. I find that book covers are the selling point of a book, it's what draws you in and I'd hate for this book to be passed over based solely on that point, for people to see what I saw and not give it a chance as they'd be missing out on a fascinating story. What I was left to wonder about though was whether they had hair on their heads?? This isn't mentioned and when Poppy brought up his ears she just said they were pointed..... so are they like elves ears on the sides of his head or like an animals on the top of his head?? I just wasn't sure as they have many similarities to humans.
Their story was packed full of action and adventure with Zensah introducing Poppy to his world and teaching her the fundamentals to survive and thrive in his jungle home. His world reminded me of Avatar (minus the neon colours) with the humongous trees for climbing and living in, large insects, animals and flowers of all kinds, a diverse and unspoiled Eco system. Poppy grew as a person whilst there, she gained self confidence and strength believing in herself after living a hard and lonely life.
The romance between our main characters was a slow simmer, tortuously slow actually. Zensah had such self control he could have been a saint. Charming, patient, honorable, kind and valiant he was a woman's dream and I admire Poppy for holding out as long as she did. He was the traditional sort not wanting just a fling but a life long commitment so he resisted his attraction to her with a steely resolve. I definitely would have liked to have seen his iron will crumble under his uncontrollable desire for her and not been so chivalrous. To have been so overcome with passion that he'd just thought 'fuck it' and ravished her especially when she gave him a very blatant go ahead but alas that is not who our sweet Zensah is.
Their intimate scenes were HOT but I felt their was something missing especially for their first time and what that thing turned out to be was that their was no communication between them during the act other than to say 'I love you' to each other. No sexy talk at all to each other, no encouraging words of delight, what you find arousing about your partner or what your feeling for that matter which heightens emotions and the scene all at once. At least the next time they were intimate Poppy was in fact a little vocal with her pleasure though it was a shame that Zensah is still to utter even a single word during the act. I do have a query though about his anatomy, Poppy mentions after seeing his large equipment that she had noticed some extras on him but nothing was mentioned when they actually had sex which was a shame.
There are a few plot twist which were unexpected keeping you hooked throughout the story which was great. Not even the second book in the series is want you think is likely to come next because as you get towards the end of the book you will find that the author has way more planned for our four remaining single ladies than just each book being about them finding their way through the jungle towards the Relicai's village. I was beyond thrilled to learn that the next book will be Burok's and Harpreet's as I'm captivated by him especially after finding out about his back story and all he's been through. I have a feeling that the dynamic between them is gonna be intense and explosive as these two seem to have an angry/hate thing going on that I love and fingers crossed for some bun in the oven action (seeing as someone has had a certain ritual performed already).
Highly recommend this book to all Sci-fi romance fans especially you lovers out there of a certain sexy Black Panther, you won't be disappointed.
May 12, 2021
A great story
This is the kind of book I like. And this story did not disappoint.
It is a very interesting romance has mystery and excitement.
I especially enjoyed the ways that world was different from ours
a very imaginative book. If you like alien romance or you just like a good story.
I am happy to recommend this book
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the kind of book I like. And this story did not disappoint.
It is a very interesting romance has mystery and excitement.
I especially enjoyed the ways that world was different from ours
a very imaginative book. If you like alien romance or you just like a good story.
I am happy to recommend this book
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2021
The Hunter's Heart (Love After Earth) by Astrid Sharpe is a Sci Fi romance and her debut book. The creativity is not limited and Astrid’s world building and character building which is vividly rich in its descriptions and enticing to even someone like me who is not a huge sci fi buff. There is fun and easy banter and sexy attraction. It is a great start to this new series, and I am excited to see where it goes. Good work Astrid.
April 20, 2021
A brilliant start to the series that leaves you wanting more. Absolutely recommended!
June 5, 2021
Poppy is a woman who lives a lonely and sometimes frustrating existence in the tower blocks of Summercotes in East London, she lives on her own since her mum dies the year before and spends the rest of her time in the fish and chip shop where she works, Franks Fries, but that all changes when she is kidnapped on her way home as someone grabs her from behind and injects her in the neck with a syringe. Zensah is a Relicai, he is the leader of their tribe and has had to make some hard decisions for them when a giant tsunami ravages the planet they live on, destroys their homes and kills most of their elderly, women and cubs, it is a devastating loss and he is going to meet with another race who have said that they are going to be bringing some female settlers with them next time they are there and whether there is room for them on his planet, he says yes and they agree to meet again.
The next thing Poppy knows is that she is waking up somewhere unknown, fully clothed with a headache worse than a hangover, the fully clothed part is a good thing, but when she opens her eyes and sees the bright light above her and a giant toad next to her, things get a bit surreal. The weird thing is that she can understand the language and when she sees the girl next to her getting some laser treatment in her eyes, she understands that the same thing must have happened to her. As she takes in more of her surroundings, she finds she is bound by some glowing yellow bands, which is why she cannot move, there are also four other women in the same situation, well at least she isn't alone in her predicament. The next thing she knows is that the alien is reporting to someone else that they are ready to be presented to someone and that they need to be their best behaviour, but who to is just as startling, a group of five panther-men walk through the door and as they talk about being “settlers” the truth dawns on Poppy and the others, they are to be sold as “breeding slaves”. Since this is the last thing that they want, they plan their escape by screaming and using the frog people’s own weapons against them, however, the plan doesn’t go as expected and the next thing they know, they are having to escape again, this time down to the last planet they wanted to be on.
When Zensah boards the shuttle with his four best warriors to go and meet the new settlers on the ship, he is thinking about the decisions he has made since being chosen as the leader and he is doubting his abilities to do the job, especially when he sees his home planet from above. When they dock with the main ship and go and meet the new settlers, he soon finds out that they aren’t settlers at all, that they are not there of their own free will and that they are being sold to him for the crystals on his home planet, this doesn’t sit well at all with Zensah or his Relicai nature and so he refuses the trade, that is until it is mentioned that if they refuse, the females won’t be returned home, they will just be taken elsewhere, he is stunned and doesn’t know what to do. However, when the females make their escape bid, he sees something new in them and makes the split second decision to help them, however, the consequences of this are suddenly more drastic than he believes and when they return to his home planet, he knows that he owes it to this band of females to help them adjust to life on his planet.
He starts this by protecting the one who is with him called Poppy, taking her back to his village and then talking to the other females after that, however, this isn’t as simple a task as it seems when Poppy asks him to teach her survival skills on the way, he agrees and becomes a mentor to her as they travel. Will they be able to reach the tribe’s home territory and cross the wild landscape unscathed, or will their luck run out during their long journey? This is a dystopian adventure with aliens, humans, friendship and hardship throughout as these two people learn about life and working together as they draw you along this new path with them.
The next thing Poppy knows is that she is waking up somewhere unknown, fully clothed with a headache worse than a hangover, the fully clothed part is a good thing, but when she opens her eyes and sees the bright light above her and a giant toad next to her, things get a bit surreal. The weird thing is that she can understand the language and when she sees the girl next to her getting some laser treatment in her eyes, she understands that the same thing must have happened to her. As she takes in more of her surroundings, she finds she is bound by some glowing yellow bands, which is why she cannot move, there are also four other women in the same situation, well at least she isn't alone in her predicament. The next thing she knows is that the alien is reporting to someone else that they are ready to be presented to someone and that they need to be their best behaviour, but who to is just as startling, a group of five panther-men walk through the door and as they talk about being “settlers” the truth dawns on Poppy and the others, they are to be sold as “breeding slaves”. Since this is the last thing that they want, they plan their escape by screaming and using the frog people’s own weapons against them, however, the plan doesn’t go as expected and the next thing they know, they are having to escape again, this time down to the last planet they wanted to be on.
When Zensah boards the shuttle with his four best warriors to go and meet the new settlers on the ship, he is thinking about the decisions he has made since being chosen as the leader and he is doubting his abilities to do the job, especially when he sees his home planet from above. When they dock with the main ship and go and meet the new settlers, he soon finds out that they aren’t settlers at all, that they are not there of their own free will and that they are being sold to him for the crystals on his home planet, this doesn’t sit well at all with Zensah or his Relicai nature and so he refuses the trade, that is until it is mentioned that if they refuse, the females won’t be returned home, they will just be taken elsewhere, he is stunned and doesn’t know what to do. However, when the females make their escape bid, he sees something new in them and makes the split second decision to help them, however, the consequences of this are suddenly more drastic than he believes and when they return to his home planet, he knows that he owes it to this band of females to help them adjust to life on his planet.
He starts this by protecting the one who is with him called Poppy, taking her back to his village and then talking to the other females after that, however, this isn’t as simple a task as it seems when Poppy asks him to teach her survival skills on the way, he agrees and becomes a mentor to her as they travel. Will they be able to reach the tribe’s home territory and cross the wild landscape unscathed, or will their luck run out during their long journey? This is a dystopian adventure with aliens, humans, friendship and hardship throughout as these two people learn about life and working together as they draw you along this new path with them.
May 15, 2021
****4.5 stars!****
Who knew!
*waves arms*
Who knew I needed seven-feet panther men in my life!
Well, let me tell you – I. Am. Here. For. That.
The Hunter’s Heart is the debut release by author Astrid Sharpe and, if that wasn’t enough (steady!), it’s Book 1 in a brand-new series called Love After Earth.
To say Poppy is having a bad day, week, month, year is a bit of an understatement *snorts*. Now, to top it all off, she’s been kidnapped by aliens to be sold as a breeder to a near extinct race! *blows out breath* And I think I’m having a bad day!!
But all is not as it seems!
THH is everything I love about alien/sci-fi/smexy action romance suspense reads (trope-atastic!). You suspend your disbelief at the door and just buckle yourself in for the ride!
TMI alert – my only grumble was I had to wait till 77% (not that I was counting!) for that ‘ride’ *snorts*.
*sighs* It was worth it though… whaaa? I did say TMI before I started.
One of my favourite things about the start of a new series is the world building as the author introduces us to the characters while giving us just enough information to whet our appetite and leave us wanting more. I have so many questions. I’m already thinking about who is going to end up with who, and all the complications that could arise. Plus, I need to know more about the Ancestors!!
For all of Zensah’s imposing physique and presence, he is so sweet and sensitive. Determined to right the wrongs done to Poppy and the other humans along with the part he unwittingly played. He’ll lay down his spear to make amends while doing the best for his tribe. *wails* He really is perfect (if tails are your thing).
Adventure awaits anyone picking up this book.
*whispers* One last thing before I go… purring *winks*.
Right?
*coughs*
If you know, you know. *shrugs*
Who knew!
*waves arms*
Who knew I needed seven-feet panther men in my life!
Well, let me tell you – I. Am. Here. For. That.
The Hunter’s Heart is the debut release by author Astrid Sharpe and, if that wasn’t enough (steady!), it’s Book 1 in a brand-new series called Love After Earth.
To say Poppy is having a bad day, week, month, year is a bit of an understatement *snorts*. Now, to top it all off, she’s been kidnapped by aliens to be sold as a breeder to a near extinct race! *blows out breath* And I think I’m having a bad day!!
But all is not as it seems!
THH is everything I love about alien/sci-fi/smexy action romance suspense reads (trope-atastic!). You suspend your disbelief at the door and just buckle yourself in for the ride!
TMI alert – my only grumble was I had to wait till 77% (not that I was counting!) for that ‘ride’ *snorts*.
*sighs* It was worth it though… whaaa? I did say TMI before I started.
One of my favourite things about the start of a new series is the world building as the author introduces us to the characters while giving us just enough information to whet our appetite and leave us wanting more. I have so many questions. I’m already thinking about who is going to end up with who, and all the complications that could arise. Plus, I need to know more about the Ancestors!!
For all of Zensah’s imposing physique and presence, he is so sweet and sensitive. Determined to right the wrongs done to Poppy and the other humans along with the part he unwittingly played. He’ll lay down his spear to make amends while doing the best for his tribe. *wails* He really is perfect (if tails are your thing).
Adventure awaits anyone picking up this book.
*whispers* One last thing before I go… purring *winks*.
Right?
*coughs*
If you know, you know. *shrugs*
June 3, 2021
Wow I really enjoyed this book. I loved the mixture of sci-fi, Romance and adventure. Astrid Sharpe has done an amazing job of creating not only the characters but also the world they are in. Both the lead characters Zensah and Poppy are strong willed and they compliment each other beautifully. You can feel every emotion the characters are going through from Poppy's anger and fear to Zensah's passion and restraint on his feelings.
Zensah is the leader of his tribe. When his tribe is wiped out he is hoping to be able to rebuild to stop his people going extinct. Imagine his joy when another tribe tells him of settlers who are willing to join his tribe.
Poppy is one of these 'settlers and a very unwilling one at that. After being kidnapped her and the other humans need to escape.
When Zensah realises that the women are victims he and his hunters vow to help and care for these women.
And this is where the fun begins. The attraction between Zensah and Poppy is pretty instant but Poppy is determined to be an independent woman. With Zensah help she wants to learn how to live in his world on her own and not rely on him. As they spend more time together will they give in to their attraction? Could Poppy be the mate Zensah has been waiting for all along? Or will Poppy just think he's after someone to mate to increase his tribe?
Zensah is the leader of his tribe. When his tribe is wiped out he is hoping to be able to rebuild to stop his people going extinct. Imagine his joy when another tribe tells him of settlers who are willing to join his tribe.
Poppy is one of these 'settlers and a very unwilling one at that. After being kidnapped her and the other humans need to escape.
When Zensah realises that the women are victims he and his hunters vow to help and care for these women.
And this is where the fun begins. The attraction between Zensah and Poppy is pretty instant but Poppy is determined to be an independent woman. With Zensah help she wants to learn how to live in his world on her own and not rely on him. As they spend more time together will they give in to their attraction? Could Poppy be the mate Zensah has been waiting for all along? Or will Poppy just think he's after someone to mate to increase his tribe?
June 8, 2021
This book was everything I didn’t know I needed and then some.
After Poppy and various other women get it abducted and sent into “space” the agreement that was supposed to secure the future of Zensah’s pack unravels when they discover the humans were taken against their will. Poppy and Zensah end up on a planet that isn’t earth. But, luckily it was Zensah’s home planet. Ending up days away from Zensah’s pack, and home. Poppy and Zensah’s mission to return to the pack and home then ensues. With every book element I’ve ever needed / wanted without knowing that I needed. Aliens, abduction, romance, a strong female lead, steamy scenes. The plot was stunning, the romance was stunning, and you never got lost in the mix of both of them. I loved every second of this book - and the ending was TOP LEVEL. I can’t recommend this book enough.
After Poppy and various other women get it abducted and sent into “space” the agreement that was supposed to secure the future of Zensah’s pack unravels when they discover the humans were taken against their will. Poppy and Zensah end up on a planet that isn’t earth. But, luckily it was Zensah’s home planet. Ending up days away from Zensah’s pack, and home. Poppy and Zensah’s mission to return to the pack and home then ensues. With every book element I’ve ever needed / wanted without knowing that I needed. Aliens, abduction, romance, a strong female lead, steamy scenes. The plot was stunning, the romance was stunning, and you never got lost in the mix of both of them. I loved every second of this book - and the ending was TOP LEVEL. I can’t recommend this book enough.
June 4, 2021
This is the first book in the Love After Earth series. I have been on a sci-fi romance kick lately, and this book delivered. I liked Poppy's attitude of dealing with a situation - she focused on her survival, waited until it was safe to have a mini-meltdown, then moved on to figuring out a plan of action. I relate to Poppy in that way as I do my best to do the same. Zensah is awesome! I loved his sense of honour and willingness to teach Poppy. He may have been a bit hard on himself for some of the events that happened, but he did his best to be fair to Poppy and the other humans. He is super sweet and treats Poppy like a person capable of learning and making her own decisions.
The world-building is well done. I thought the descriptions were great and the way the planet worked was interesting. I also liked that even though language was not a huge barrier, things like idioms, slang, and culture, still made communication interesting. I look forward to reading more in this series and finding out what happens with the other women taken with Poppy.
The world-building is well done. I thought the descriptions were great and the way the planet worked was interesting. I also liked that even though language was not a huge barrier, things like idioms, slang, and culture, still made communication interesting. I look forward to reading more in this series and finding out what happens with the other women taken with Poppy.
May 22, 2021
This is the first book in this series which I enjoyed. It is a scientific romance story that was hard to put down. This is my first book by this author, I look forward to reading more from them in the future. This is a well written story that I found to be fast paced and engaging. The characters are relatable and kept me wanting to see what would happen next. This is a story about Zensah and Poppy. Zensah is the leader of his tribe and Poppy is a human leader. He is out to prove that she is his mate but will she accept him? The action picks up when she asks him to teach her survival skills to help on her journey to meet up with the rest of her group. There is a lot of growth in this story which makes it easy to read. It was a great book to pick up. I highly recommend this book.
June 7, 2021
Wow! The Hunter's Heart tells the story of Poppy, a human with not much going for her on Earth. When she and several other women are kidnapped and awaken on an alien space ship, they fight back with the help of Zensah and his panther-man warriors. Escaping, each human woman is left alone with one of the warriors. As Poppy and Zensah travel through the unknown(to her) world, Zensah teaches her how to hunt, fight, and survive on his planet.
This novel is amazing! The setting is magical, beautiful, and so creative. The dangers feel real, and the emotions between Zensah and Poppy hit the reader straight in the heart. Some of the parts told from Poppy's point of view were laugh out loud funny with the way she thinks. I hope that Astrid Sharpe continues this series because I NEED to know what happens next! Great writing, I couldn't put this book down once I started it!
This novel is amazing! The setting is magical, beautiful, and so creative. The dangers feel real, and the emotions between Zensah and Poppy hit the reader straight in the heart. Some of the parts told from Poppy's point of view were laugh out loud funny with the way she thinks. I hope that Astrid Sharpe continues this series because I NEED to know what happens next! Great writing, I couldn't put this book down once I started it!
May 26, 2021
Great Start for a New Series . . .
Zensah, the leader of his tribe on Relicai, paid the passage for what he assumed was women willing to come to their world to raise families and replenish their dwindling population. He did not know they would be kidnapped from their own world and forced into this life. But the panthers are decent and will not pressure the women.
Zensah and his men help the women escape their kidnappers. But they are left stranded in the wild. Poppy wants Zensah to each her about survival on their new world as they start their journey to join the others. The skills she learns will help her maintain her independence. She gives him glimpses of her courage along the way, and she is the only female he has ever desired to claim as his mate. Will Poppy be willing to accept him as hers? Will she be open to starting a new life and family on this planet with her panther man?
The reader will love the world-building the author gives us so we can visualize this rich planet with its strange animals and plants. It was also clever to let the reader see how Zensah’s teaching her gave them a way to know each other better and begin to fall in love and respect each other. The slow building of love can make it all the sweeter. And the sweet, honorable Zensah makes it easy to love him. Grab your copy and see what comes of their journey “home”.
Zensah, the leader of his tribe on Relicai, paid the passage for what he assumed was women willing to come to their world to raise families and replenish their dwindling population. He did not know they would be kidnapped from their own world and forced into this life. But the panthers are decent and will not pressure the women.
Zensah and his men help the women escape their kidnappers. But they are left stranded in the wild. Poppy wants Zensah to each her about survival on their new world as they start their journey to join the others. The skills she learns will help her maintain her independence. She gives him glimpses of her courage along the way, and she is the only female he has ever desired to claim as his mate. Will Poppy be willing to accept him as hers? Will she be open to starting a new life and family on this planet with her panther man?
The reader will love the world-building the author gives us so we can visualize this rich planet with its strange animals and plants. It was also clever to let the reader see how Zensah’s teaching her gave them a way to know each other better and begin to fall in love and respect each other. The slow building of love can make it all the sweeter. And the sweet, honorable Zensah makes it easy to love him. Grab your copy and see what comes of their journey “home”.
May 28, 2021
The Hunter’s Heart by Astrid Sharpe is her debut novel. This is the story of an English woman who is abducted and sold by some nefarious creatures to a group of alien panther-like men. The panther-like men, who live in a different realm from Earth that is short on panther-like females following a tragedy, are looking for willing breeders/mates. I wasn’t sure about the premise of the book, but I thought I would take a chance on the novel. I’m so glad I did! This novel is absolutely science fiction, but it is so imaginative. Astrid Sharpe’s world-building is simply incredible. While the story is obviously fiction, the way Ms. Sharpe writes and brings the environment to life makes it feel relatable to the reader. I can’t imagine all the work that goes into creating a story that takes place both on Earth and a different planet, but I certainly appreciate Ms. Sharpe’s effort and diligence. I absolutely recommend this fantastic story!
June 4, 2021
The Hunter’s Heart (Love After Earth) by Astrid Sharpe is a fantastic debut story that is unlike anything I have read before! This author has created a story that is imaginative and original. This is the kind of book that took me by surprise and I ended up reading in one sitting. I just had to read more about the tribe and Zensah.
I thought the writing style was fantastic. It seemed to use creative word play that helped to make the whole book come alive. It was developed slowly and meticulously so that I would be enjoy fully.
This is a fantastic book and I am already excited about what is next from this author.
I thought the writing style was fantastic. It seemed to use creative word play that helped to make the whole book come alive. It was developed slowly and meticulously so that I would be enjoy fully.
This is a fantastic book and I am already excited about what is next from this author.
June 5, 2021
Considering The Hunter's Heart is Ms. Sharpe's first novel all I can say is wow. One of my favorite things in a book is when an author gives their readers view points from both of their leading characters Ms. Sharpe does this flawlessly in The Hunter's Heart and it blew me away. Her writing style flows beautifully, her imagination paints beautiful scenery for her readers and her descriptions leave her readers feeling everything that her main characters feel. Her romance goes from a slow simmer to a boil with twists and turns that her readers won't see coming. While I am not normally a Sci-fi lover, this Sci-fi romance was so good that I can't wait to see what Ms. Sharpe has planned next.
June 7, 2021
World building! I was blown away with the descriptions of a new world, the creatures, and the panthers. I don’t know that I have ever enjoyed discovering a world as much as I did this one. I hope author continues writing because I want to read Burok’s story. He jumped off the page, and he wasn’t even main character. I love how real the characters were to me, some great and some flawed. I seriously had a hard time putting it down!
May 26, 2021
The Hunter’s Heart is the first in the Love After Earth series by Astrid Sharpe and is by far one of my favorite reads of the year.
The book follows human woman, Poppy, and a band of women that were stolen from earth, and Zensah, leader of an alien tribe nearly extinct, who thought he was meeting settlers not stolen women.
I literally felt like I was eating this book I read it so fast. I’ve recently gotten into more fantasy and sci-fi books and this one perfectly scratches that itch. The characters were fun to read and easy to relate to. I found myself liking Poppy, not liking Poppy, and going back to liking her. I feel that shows the true talent of a writer when a character can influence you so much. Zensah was a dream and did similar for me as Poppy. If you are into sci-fi even a little bit, this is definitely a book you should check out! The story was vivid with lots of detail and descriptive so you could imagine where all of this takes place.
I will definitely read this again and I can’t wait to start the next!
The book follows human woman, Poppy, and a band of women that were stolen from earth, and Zensah, leader of an alien tribe nearly extinct, who thought he was meeting settlers not stolen women.
I literally felt like I was eating this book I read it so fast. I’ve recently gotten into more fantasy and sci-fi books and this one perfectly scratches that itch. The characters were fun to read and easy to relate to. I found myself liking Poppy, not liking Poppy, and going back to liking her. I feel that shows the true talent of a writer when a character can influence you so much. Zensah was a dream and did similar for me as Poppy. If you are into sci-fi even a little bit, this is definitely a book you should check out! The story was vivid with lots of detail and descriptive so you could imagine where all of this takes place.
I will definitely read this again and I can’t wait to start the next!
May 16, 2021
I love science fiction and the possibility of other sentient beings with human like capabilities. Ms. Sharpe had created a world with beings who have big cat like features but are humanistic. Our heroine, Poppy, along with other women, are kidnapped from earth in England and taken to another planet as mates to a dying race. Zensah, the leader, was looking for willing setters, not enslaved women. Zensah and his warriors team up with Poppy and the other women to escape the dishonest kidnappers. Zensah and Poppy have to work together on his planet in order to reach safety. Ms. Sharpe’s description of the planet, along with the animals and flora, is thrilling. I loved the interaction between our two main characters, Zensah and Poppy, and hope to read other books in the Love After Earth Series soon!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2021
If you’re having a bad day then just consider how worse it could be. You could be minding your own business before being abducted by toads, to be sold to panthers. This is what happens to Poppy and the others in the first book in the Love After Earth series.
Zensah is the reluctant leader of Relicai and thought he was getting willing women who wanted to settle on their world, not abductees. Fortunately, our panthers are completely honourable, or at least, Zensah is. I’m not sure about the others, but I can’t wait to find out!
The relationship between Zensah and Poppy is a slow-burn, focusing more on Poppy’s growth as she learns how to survive in the sometimes harsh world of the Relicai. Without meaning to, Poppy has become the leader of the group of women, and she wants to be there on equal terms.
I loved the stories behind the crystals and the colours, and hopefully, I will learn more as the series continues. The world-building is exceptional, and I laughed aloud at the reference to AntMan!
All in all, this was a brilliant Sci-Fi read that kept me engrossed from start to finish, and has left me wanting more. A wonderful start to the series, and I can’t wait to continue with it. Absolutely recommended by me.
Zensah is the reluctant leader of Relicai and thought he was getting willing women who wanted to settle on their world, not abductees. Fortunately, our panthers are completely honourable, or at least, Zensah is. I’m not sure about the others, but I can’t wait to find out!
The relationship between Zensah and Poppy is a slow-burn, focusing more on Poppy’s growth as she learns how to survive in the sometimes harsh world of the Relicai. Without meaning to, Poppy has become the leader of the group of women, and she wants to be there on equal terms.
I loved the stories behind the crystals and the colours, and hopefully, I will learn more as the series continues. The world-building is exceptional, and I laughed aloud at the reference to AntMan!
All in all, this was a brilliant Sci-Fi read that kept me engrossed from start to finish, and has left me wanting more. A wonderful start to the series, and I can’t wait to continue with it. Absolutely recommended by me.
June 12, 2021
I give The Hunter's Heart (Love After Earth) by Astrid Sharpe, 5 stars.
I enjoyed this book so much more than I thought I would. The story was so interesting and different. When I read about the book, I wasn't sure, but it intrigued me enough to try it. I was pulled in right away and could not put it down until I was finished. I like everything about this book. The characters are phenomenal. Poppy quickly became one of my favorite lead female characters. She never meant for this to happen and had no control over it. But she adapts quickly and learns just what she is truly made of. Zensah questions his role as leader but has a heart of gold. He just has to come to peace with himself and discover who he really is.
Then there is the story. The action starts right away and keeps happening throughout the entire book. But that is not all of this book. Along the way, there is romance, sorrow, and some humor as well. Of course, since this takes place on another planet with other creatures, there is plenty of science fiction, which is the main genre of this book. The author does such a great job on this new world, I imagined it perfectly and could see myself there.
If you are a fan of science fiction with romance and action in a wonderfully created new world with intriguing characters, this book is for you.
I enjoyed this book so much more than I thought I would. The story was so interesting and different. When I read about the book, I wasn't sure, but it intrigued me enough to try it. I was pulled in right away and could not put it down until I was finished. I like everything about this book. The characters are phenomenal. Poppy quickly became one of my favorite lead female characters. She never meant for this to happen and had no control over it. But she adapts quickly and learns just what she is truly made of. Zensah questions his role as leader but has a heart of gold. He just has to come to peace with himself and discover who he really is.
Then there is the story. The action starts right away and keeps happening throughout the entire book. But that is not all of this book. Along the way, there is romance, sorrow, and some humor as well. Of course, since this takes place on another planet with other creatures, there is plenty of science fiction, which is the main genre of this book. The author does such a great job on this new world, I imagined it perfectly and could see myself there.
If you are a fan of science fiction with romance and action in a wonderfully created new world with intriguing characters, this book is for you.
June 11, 2021
This one starts with a big leap of faith - a group of young women are abducted from their neighbourhoods in England, and blasted into outer space to be sold to a group of Panther-men as breeders for their dying race. Well, if you can get past the absurdity of the premise - this book is actually pretty amazing. Strong, independent female heroines who are masters of their own destiny, despite being dropped onto an alien planet that they no nothing about, with few applicable skills to defend themselves with. Poppy is adamant that she learn the skills of the Panther-men so that she and her fellow women can take care of themselves, and not be beholden to others to make their way in this new world. Despite the origins of the arrangement, Zensah of the Panther-man race respects the women and honours their right to independent life. As their journey wears on, the two come to care for each other more than they expected.
The writing is lush and illustrative. There are many foreign vistas in this adventure, and Sharpe is adept at describing them. Her writing is so immediate and rich that imagining you are following behind Poppy and Zensah in the jungle is easy. Being able to easily picture Zensah's sleek rippling muscles didn't hurt my enjoyment of the book either! This really is a great read, I can absolutely recommend it for sci-fi, adventure, and romance fans.
The writing is lush and illustrative. There are many foreign vistas in this adventure, and Sharpe is adept at describing them. Her writing is so immediate and rich that imagining you are following behind Poppy and Zensah in the jungle is easy. Being able to easily picture Zensah's sleek rippling muscles didn't hurt my enjoyment of the book either! This really is a great read, I can absolutely recommend it for sci-fi, adventure, and romance fans.
April 4, 2022
“Better they assume our ignorance than anticipate our intelligence.”
Poppy thought she was surviving on Earth, being abducted by Aliens gave surviving a whole new meaning.
Zensah hasn’t been leading his people for long, but as his tribe recovers from a tragedy he is doing his best to lead them into the future. As he finds himself teaching Poppy how to survive on his world, he is also seeing his recent past from a different perspective, questioning his choices, taking responsibility for the consequences of his decisions, and striving to find the best path forward not just for his tribe, but for the humans that now find themselves on his world as well.
I was gifted with a copy of this done in one book, and hope there are more in this series. The Relicai are an interesting species/culture, on an interesting world, and these human women with ‘no one to miss them’ back on Earth are discovering what it is to truly be part of a tribe, as opposed to being alone.
Poppy thought she was surviving on Earth, being abducted by Aliens gave surviving a whole new meaning.
Zensah hasn’t been leading his people for long, but as his tribe recovers from a tragedy he is doing his best to lead them into the future. As he finds himself teaching Poppy how to survive on his world, he is also seeing his recent past from a different perspective, questioning his choices, taking responsibility for the consequences of his decisions, and striving to find the best path forward not just for his tribe, but for the humans that now find themselves on his world as well.
I was gifted with a copy of this done in one book, and hope there are more in this series. The Relicai are an interesting species/culture, on an interesting world, and these human women with ‘no one to miss them’ back on Earth are discovering what it is to truly be part of a tribe, as opposed to being alone.
October 3, 2022
Honestly, this book was everything I didn't know I needed and wanted in a story! Astrid's vivid description of a new world and the slow build of the main characters and their romance, was beautifully done. She kept me HOOKED from page to page. This is one of those books where every time I neared the end of a chapter, I'd say "ok, last one and I'll go to bed," only to end up finishing the book at 5am because I couldn't stop LOL. The slight introduction of others characters was well written as well and was juuust enough to make you want to read the other books just for them. Could've used some more "smut" earlier in the book, but the main characters personality makes sense with why there wasn't and with it being the first in a series, I'm sure the next books will include it more!
For anyone who is into adventure, sci-fi and romance, or just a great read in general, I highly recommend this book! I am impatiently waiting for book 2 and can't wait for its release <3.
For anyone who is into adventure, sci-fi and romance, or just a great read in general, I highly recommend this book! I am impatiently waiting for book 2 and can't wait for its release <3.
June 11, 2021
The Hunter's Heart (Love After Earth)
By Astrid Sharpe
This was a great read that kept me captivated the entire time. This book was full of action and adventure. Poppy and some other women were abducted and were supposed to be given to Zensah and his tribe, but he didn't know they were not willing participants. Zensah and some of his tribe help the woman escape from their abductors. Poppy and Zensah have a long trip to get back to where he lives. During this trip he teaches her how to survive and they learn a lot about each other and themselves. This is a must read if you want to find out what happens with these two. The author does a wonderful job writing a story rich in detail so I can picture it in my mind's eye. I recommend this book and I can't wait to see what's in store in the next one.
By Astrid Sharpe
This was a great read that kept me captivated the entire time. This book was full of action and adventure. Poppy and some other women were abducted and were supposed to be given to Zensah and his tribe, but he didn't know they were not willing participants. Zensah and some of his tribe help the woman escape from their abductors. Poppy and Zensah have a long trip to get back to where he lives. During this trip he teaches her how to survive and they learn a lot about each other and themselves. This is a must read if you want to find out what happens with these two. The author does a wonderful job writing a story rich in detail so I can picture it in my mind's eye. I recommend this book and I can't wait to see what's in store in the next one.
June 12, 2021
If you like Sci-Fi and the wonder of mate bonds then this story is for you. Zensah and Poppy are a couple brought together by chance, but soon find that they stay togetherr as they find love. Poppy and other random earth girls were abucted by aliens known as Greenskins whom believe the women to be un-cared for and sure to not be missed. When they are taken to a land of the Relicai (panther like men) for a trade it becomes a battle of the wills. They are soon taught to hunt and survive in hopes of being able to return home. Its a wonderous journey that is full of adventure, survival, and the appreciation of differences.
June 12, 2021
The Hunter's Heart is the first book in the Love After Earth Series by Astrid Sharpe. This is an amazing Sci-Fi romance novel. Sharpe has gone above and beyond with the wicked descriptions of the characters and the place. This novel is about Zensah and Poppy. Zensah is a hybrid from a different planet and Poppy is a human from earth. When Poppy gets kidnapped, she is taken to Zensah's planet. What follows next is just mind blowing, I definitely recommend reading this novel. Astrid Sharpe is a an amazing author that grabbed my attention from the get go.
June 12, 2021
Astrid Sharpe has written a new and exciting sci-fi romance with her first book in the Love After Earth series. Having finished this book, I cannot wait to read more of her works! Sharpe uses descriptive language that creates worlds that are easy to imagine. I loved her characters and routed for Poppy as she fought throughout the story. She was so courageous and strong, I loved how Sharpe made Poppy a positive female lead while still allowing her to be vulnerable at times. Overall, an entertaining read.
August 1, 2021
Enjoyed this sci-fi romance! Absolutely adored the characters - Poppy was hilarious and brave, and Zensah was so sweet. The plot was excellent and the slow burn romance very well done, although I could’ve done with a few more sexy scenes later in the book. The world-building and attention to detail was amazing, presumably a set up for a whole series. I’m guessing Harpreet’s story is next and that looks to be exactly the sort of enemies to lovers, forced proximity delight that I love.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews