|
Beyond the Rain
By Jess Granger
Berkley
August 2009
Cyani of Azra has been trained since childhood to be a warrior, devoid of emotional or personal attachments. But when she discovers Soren, a Byralen being held captive and exploited for his unique, addictive hormones, everything she’s been taught is put to the test. Together they escape his captors on Krona and crash land on Makko, an idyllic planet where they are welcomed to stay.
Soren tends to Cyani’s injuries sustained in the crash, and does all he can to ensure her comfort and safety on Makko. Cyani is unaccustomed to being pampered but discovers it definitely has merit. Soren knows his unusual Byralen physiology requires the production of a particular hormone to survive, and this can only be accomplished through mating. While he and Cyani have been intimate, he doesn’t want to obligate her to remain with him, so he doesn’t tell her about his life-sustaining need for her. Instead, he hopes she will stay on her own accord.
Even as Cyani and Soren adapt to the peaceful Makko way of life, she continues her attempt to make contact with the Union, hoping to be rescued by them. Soren knows, if she leaves him, he’ll die.
Granger’s debut novel is a masterful work of colorful images, likable characters, and tantalizing romance. Alien people, places and cultures seem real in their detail. Cyani’s blind dedication to duty is maddening, considering how she’s being manipulated, while all Soren wants to do is love her. The tension is relentless as Cyani’s destiny unfolds, bringing surprising new allies into her life. A clever and altogether sensuous interplanetary tale.
Sandra Van Winkle, ReaderToReader.com
|
More Info...
|