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Shifter Planet #1
Shifter Planet
Specialist Amanda Sumner is one of the first to make contact on the Earth-like planet Harp and discovers she's the only Earthling who can hear the trees sing in the strange forest. Determined to remain and learn more of the planet’s secrets, Amanda sets out to become part of the elite Guild there...
But there is a secret involving some Guild members–one that could get her killed.
Shifter Rhodry de Mendoza wants the Earthlings off his planet before they destroy it—even if that means denying what he feels for the fierce and lovely Amanda. The pair is thrown together in what becomes a fight for their lives. And they might just lose everything–including each other–in their battle for the right to live in peace.
But there is a secret involving some Guild members–one that could get her killed.
Shifter Rhodry de Mendoza wants the Earthlings off his planet before they destroy it—even if that means denying what he feels for the fierce and lovely Amanda. The pair is thrown together in what becomes a fight for their lives. And they might just lose everything–including each other–in their battle for the right to live in peace.
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 26, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
October 27, 2015
*3.5 stars*
D.B. Reynolds is my girl, and I'll pretty much read anything that she writes. I'm absolutely obsessed with her Vampires in America series, and I was prepared to LOVE this. No dice. But while this was definitely not a "love" for me, it was a strong like with the hope of better things to come. I'll even give the author a pass on that title...
This book is a mash-up of Avatar and your standard shifter romance. In fact, this book so strongly reminded me of Avatar (with the heavy-handed moral lesson of treating the planet with respect, and the space crew looking for a new planet to profit off of), that I was a little turned off. The mix between the singing forest, the cat shifters, and the Irish/highlander vibe was a strange blend for me. It felt like the author forced a few different tropes into one story, and I didn't love them all together.
I also didn't like how difficult it was for Amanda and Rhodry to communicate! Gah! I felt like screaming at the both of them because their failure to just talk caused SO many problems. Miscommunications or communication issues are some of my least favorite plot devices.
But despite my issues, it all comes down to the fact that D.B. Reynolds can write her little tush off. I was eventually sucked into the story, and I really enjoyed the second half. There is a ton of action and suspense, and I dug this author's kick-butt female MC, something that this author does very well. D.B. Reynolds tends to write very strong female characters, and I love her for it.
The chemistry was there, and though it took a long time for everything to develop, I liked the romance. I wish more plot time was devoted to romantic developments, but I'm guessing the emotions are going to come more in the next books in the series. I also want to know more about why Amanda can do things no other human can.
Not as good as her vampire series, but I think Shifter Planet is pretty promising. I'm counting on D.B. Reynolds to deliver in all future installments.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
D.B. Reynolds is my girl, and I'll pretty much read anything that she writes. I'm absolutely obsessed with her Vampires in America series, and I was prepared to LOVE this. No dice. But while this was definitely not a "love" for me, it was a strong like with the hope of better things to come. I'll even give the author a pass on that title...
This book is a mash-up of Avatar and your standard shifter romance. In fact, this book so strongly reminded me of Avatar (with the heavy-handed moral lesson of treating the planet with respect, and the space crew looking for a new planet to profit off of), that I was a little turned off. The mix between the singing forest, the cat shifters, and the Irish/highlander vibe was a strange blend for me. It felt like the author forced a few different tropes into one story, and I didn't love them all together.
I also didn't like how difficult it was for Amanda and Rhodry to communicate! Gah! I felt like screaming at the both of them because their failure to just talk caused SO many problems. Miscommunications or communication issues are some of my least favorite plot devices.
But despite my issues, it all comes down to the fact that D.B. Reynolds can write her little tush off. I was eventually sucked into the story, and I really enjoyed the second half. There is a ton of action and suspense, and I dug this author's kick-butt female MC, something that this author does very well. D.B. Reynolds tends to write very strong female characters, and I love her for it.
The chemistry was there, and though it took a long time for everything to develop, I liked the romance. I wish more plot time was devoted to romantic developments, but I'm guessing the emotions are going to come more in the next books in the series. I also want to know more about why Amanda can do things no other human can.
Not as good as her vampire series, but I think Shifter Planet is pretty promising. I'm counting on D.B. Reynolds to deliver in all future installments.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
October 13, 2015
I'm sooo happy to have received this book from Netgalley!!!!
I was expecting a usual SF trope where the woman ends on alien planet and falls madly in love/lust with an alpha alien!
And does it happen here? Nooooooo!!!!
Here Amanda, the Earth girl, who, by the way, never set foot on planet Earth, is the true heroine. She's tough in the truest way: she's athletic and physically strong; she's determinate to succede. She wants what has never been achieved: to enter the mysterious Guild!
But the mystery of the Guild is soon revealed, but that is not the main point of the story.
The main point is Amanda! And what a point she made! WOW!
She obviously stubborn and the goal she set for herself is full of danger: a very physical danger, but she's really ready and she's absolutely aware of everything!
She's a very unusual heroine: she's not a simpering damisel in distress, nor she's a TSTL one that runs head-first in danger! She's incredibly capable!
You'll not find here any description of fashion or dresses or hear-style. You'll not find in her any emotional angst because of past grievances of any kind!
What you'll find is a dirty, smelly, wounded heroine who, despite all that, manages to be incredibly intriguing and full of resources in some highly dangerous situation!
What you'll find is a story of an extraordinary adventure! I was jumping up and down with excitement all the time!!!!
The hero is interesting and even if at first a macho-man, he's not unreasonable and he's overcome his caveman-ness or, at least did everything to overcome it! LOL
A fantastic adventure! A novel idea in shifer-world!
Run to read it as soon as it comes out: I'm sure you'll love it!
I was expecting a usual SF trope where the woman ends on alien planet and falls madly in love/lust with an alpha alien!
And does it happen here? Nooooooo!!!!
Here Amanda, the Earth girl, who, by the way, never set foot on planet Earth, is the true heroine. She's tough in the truest way: she's athletic and physically strong; she's determinate to succede. She wants what has never been achieved: to enter the mysterious Guild!
But the mystery of the Guild is soon revealed, but that is not the main point of the story.
The main point is Amanda! And what a point she made! WOW!
She obviously stubborn and the goal she set for herself is full of danger: a very physical danger, but she's really ready and she's absolutely aware of everything!
She's a very unusual heroine: she's not a simpering damisel in distress, nor she's a TSTL one that runs head-first in danger! She's incredibly capable!
You'll not find here any description of fashion or dresses or hear-style. You'll not find in her any emotional angst because of past grievances of any kind!
What you'll find is a dirty, smelly, wounded heroine who, despite all that, manages to be incredibly intriguing and full of resources in some highly dangerous situation!
What you'll find is a story of an extraordinary adventure! I was jumping up and down with excitement all the time!!!!
The hero is interesting and even if at first a macho-man, he's not unreasonable and he's overcome his caveman-ness or, at least did everything to overcome it! LOL
A fantastic adventure! A novel idea in shifer-world!
Run to read it as soon as it comes out: I'm sure you'll love it!
November 4, 2015
4.5 Stars! OUT. OF. THIS. WORLD. GOOD!!!
A unique, imaginative read filled with a host of interesting characters, odd creatures, and a story line that will have the reader wholly engaged from beginning to end!
Amanda is a strong and determined heroine. Having been raised on a spaceship and its confined spaces, she longs for the freedom to explore the planet Harp and the Green that calls to her. Nothing will keep her from achieving her goal...to become a part of the Guild. She's tricked and tossed into a nearly impossible situation, and not only does she confront the dangerous obstacles in her way, she uses her brains and mad skills to defeat and overcome them, and never wavers from her goal. Amanda has that WOW factor that just knocked my socks off...I had a major girl crush on her!
Rhodry wants to keep Amanda out of the Green and doesn't think she has what it takes to become a part of the Guild. The Green is dangerous and there are secrets on his planet that he would rather she never find out, and something that's a big part of who he really is. He would much prefer she go back to outer space and get off Harp, she's trouble with a capital "T". The pull she has on him is messing with his mind and heart, but, as time goes by he begins to see that she is more than meets the eye, although he likes what his eyes see! By all appearances, Rhodry is brawn and bravado, and utterly gorgeous, but he has a soft, protective side that Amanda will be the recipient of, along with some of his other sensual talents...very HOT!! He's the all around complete hero, the total package...RAWRRRR!
Even though the attraction between Rhodry and Amanda is apparent from the moment they meet, they keep their distance, eye each other from afar, build mutual respect and form an unbreakable bond when they find themselves fighting for their lives. I love the slow build, it always makes the final objective...sex... that much more explosive!
The ending was somewhat rushed and felt a little incomplete, and for that reason I detracted a half a star. Rhodry and Amanda do get their HEA, but after all they'd been through, I felt the author owed us a little more in the end. That being said, D.B. Reynolds never fails to deliver and Shifter Planet is what I believe could be the start of a fantastic series. There is so much more to explore, character's stories that need to be told, and I don't want this to be the last that I hear of Rhodry and Amanda. They are the Raphael and Cyn (one of my favorite power couples) of outer-space, and I hope that someday I'll be taking the shuttle back to the planet Harp!
*A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley*
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December 30, 2015This is one of mine, so ...
October 26, 2015
5 - "Watch and learn, Earth girl." Stars!
It’s really hard for me to describe Shifter Planet, in fact I have taken a couple of days to try and put my thoughts together, because it was such an enjoyable and unusual read. Think G. I. Jane, crossed with Avatar, with a side of Star Trek and you are kind of in the ballpark of where this PNR tale sits.
Amanda has spent her life aboard various space ships, and having never spent any time on land, it comes as a bit of a shock to her how attuned with the Planet Harp she is when her team land to carry out a diplomatic as well as exploratory mission. The descendants of Harp, hail from Earth, but over the years changes in their biological make-up have turned some of their residents into more than just your Average Joe.
”You are such a pretty kitty.”
I really, really enjoyed this book, I must admit I went in with no expectations, being the first book I have read by the author, and to be honest the Title not to mention the synopsis, could both do with a bit of work. Amanda was strong, sassy and the adventure she goes on in an effort to be the first female earther to become a member of The Guild is unlike any adventure I have read before.
”I finally get you half naked… and you’re bleeding all over my sleeping bag.”
Rhodry goes from uber male, to injured kitty as the story progresses, and I loved that Amanda was the strong and dominant influence in their partnership for a time. Shifter Planet felt more of an action/adventure story over romance for the most part, our couple do get hot and heavy later on in the book, but for me it was the journey that Amanda and Rhodri took, and the obstacles that they overcame that built their relationship.
Well worth a read if you are looking for PNR with a bit of a unique spin on it. The first third of the book definitely sets the scene and gives you the background information you need to know about Harp and its people, but once past that the story is full on, action, suspense and adventure right through to its finish.
This is my first book by D. B. Reynolds, and I hope that she continues on from Shifter Planet with the amount of characters introduced in the story, there is certainly potential for more stories to be told.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
It’s really hard for me to describe Shifter Planet, in fact I have taken a couple of days to try and put my thoughts together, because it was such an enjoyable and unusual read. Think G. I. Jane, crossed with Avatar, with a side of Star Trek and you are kind of in the ballpark of where this PNR tale sits.
Amanda has spent her life aboard various space ships, and having never spent any time on land, it comes as a bit of a shock to her how attuned with the Planet Harp she is when her team land to carry out a diplomatic as well as exploratory mission. The descendants of Harp, hail from Earth, but over the years changes in their biological make-up have turned some of their residents into more than just your Average Joe.
”You are such a pretty kitty.”
I really, really enjoyed this book, I must admit I went in with no expectations, being the first book I have read by the author, and to be honest the Title not to mention the synopsis, could both do with a bit of work. Amanda was strong, sassy and the adventure she goes on in an effort to be the first female earther to become a member of The Guild is unlike any adventure I have read before.
”I finally get you half naked… and you’re bleeding all over my sleeping bag.”
Rhodry goes from uber male, to injured kitty as the story progresses, and I loved that Amanda was the strong and dominant influence in their partnership for a time. Shifter Planet felt more of an action/adventure story over romance for the most part, our couple do get hot and heavy later on in the book, but for me it was the journey that Amanda and Rhodri took, and the obstacles that they overcame that built their relationship.
Well worth a read if you are looking for PNR with a bit of a unique spin on it. The first third of the book definitely sets the scene and gives you the background information you need to know about Harp and its people, but once past that the story is full on, action, suspense and adventure right through to its finish.
This is my first book by D. B. Reynolds, and I hope that she continues on from Shifter Planet with the amount of characters introduced in the story, there is certainly potential for more stories to be told.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
June 9, 2019
Reread in anticipation of the soon-to-be-released second book of the series. Although the book is a little rough around the edges of wordbuilding; I liked the plot and setting. I enjoyed SP every bit as much as the first read; and am anxiously awaiting the new book finally being released after such a long wait...
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Very nice start to what I’m hoping will be a new series by Reynolds. There’s a bit of scifi at the beginning as Amanda first comes to the planet known as Harp. There is a cute shout-out to the original Star Trek, as the name of her space ship is the James T. Once she arrives on the planet, it goes into the shifter part of the story. The story is very good, and the wordbuilding well done. This is better than 90% of the shifter stories being written, imo; and different.
Amanda is a strong heroine, stubborn and resourceful when she finds herself battling her way back to civilization. She even saves the life of the hero, Rhodry! I enjoyed the story, and unlike many books I read, did not rush to the end but slowed down to savor the story. It’s not perfect, but it was exciting and action packed; more than enough to make me want to read more in this world. It’s obvious that a lot of work went into the wordbuilding of the world, plotline, and the unique setting.
The only real nit I have is that I really don’t care for the title of the book. It would be fine for the series name, but as a book title it’s a bit cheesy. This is another exciting read, however, and a very nice complement to Reynold’s excellent ‘Vampires in America’ series.
————————————
Very nice start to what I’m hoping will be a new series by Reynolds. There’s a bit of scifi at the beginning as Amanda first comes to the planet known as Harp. There is a cute shout-out to the original Star Trek, as the name of her space ship is the James T. Once she arrives on the planet, it goes into the shifter part of the story. The story is very good, and the wordbuilding well done. This is better than 90% of the shifter stories being written, imo; and different.
Amanda is a strong heroine, stubborn and resourceful when she finds herself battling her way back to civilization. She even saves the life of the hero, Rhodry! I enjoyed the story, and unlike many books I read, did not rush to the end but slowed down to savor the story. It’s not perfect, but it was exciting and action packed; more than enough to make me want to read more in this world. It’s obvious that a lot of work went into the wordbuilding of the world, plotline, and the unique setting.
The only real nit I have is that I really don’t care for the title of the book. It would be fine for the series name, but as a book title it’s a bit cheesy. This is another exciting read, however, and a very nice complement to Reynold’s excellent ‘Vampires in America’ series.
December 18, 2015
Just found a new favorite series! Think IAD (Kresley Cole) meets Ilona Andrews' Kate Daniels.
Review to come after I come down from this massive binge read session.
Bloody good PNR. Get it. Read it. Love it!
Review to come after I come down from this massive binge read session.
Bloody good PNR. Get it. Read it. Love it!
October 9, 2015
This book is absolutely more than a 5 star read for me. It will most assuredly leave me in a post-book hangover because it was probably the most EPIC shifter romance I've ever read. And, as an avid reader of paranormal romance, THAT Is saying something.
Shifter Planet was truly unlike anything I've ever read before. It was amazingly imaginative, highly seductive, and a pulse pounding adventure. The world Reynolds created was set in a far into the future, and on a distant planet, but had trappings that will not be unfamiliar to the reader.
This story was gritty (in spots), raw (in spots), and pulse-pounding (all throughout). The hero -- Rhodry -- and the heroine -- Amanda -- were absolutely perfect. Rhodry contained the best attributes of a shifter male, strong protective, dominant, and SEXY! And Amanda...WOW! I love that Reynolds creates strong female leads and her female characters in her Vampires in America series are very strong. However, I have to say that Amanda leaves them all in the dust. Everything that she endured! Her resilience and fortitude left me absolutely speechless!
Shifter Planet was an AMAZING read and one that I will HAPPILY recommend to anyone who stops by to read this review.
Shifter Planet was truly unlike anything I've ever read before. It was amazingly imaginative, highly seductive, and a pulse pounding adventure. The world Reynolds created was set in a far into the future, and on a distant planet, but had trappings that will not be unfamiliar to the reader.
This story was gritty (in spots), raw (in spots), and pulse-pounding (all throughout). The hero -- Rhodry -- and the heroine -- Amanda -- were absolutely perfect. Rhodry contained the best attributes of a shifter male, strong protective, dominant, and SEXY! And Amanda...WOW! I love that Reynolds creates strong female leads and her female characters in her Vampires in America series are very strong. However, I have to say that Amanda leaves them all in the dust. Everything that she endured! Her resilience and fortitude left me absolutely speechless!
Shifter Planet was an AMAZING read and one that I will HAPPILY recommend to anyone who stops by to read this review.
November 23, 2015
I enjoyed this sci fi romance by the author of the Vampires in America series (which I enjoy as well). The world building was pretty good, I felt like she did a good job of creating this new world and characters. The small things that keep this from being a great read were that I felt like the hero spent too much time staying away from the heroine for a dumb reason and I wanted a nice epilogue to see what happens once they are home from the journey that took half the book. We know they are together but I wanted some resolution so I know how they build a life together.
I hope there are more books in the series so we will see what happens to them in the future.
I hope there are more books in the series so we will see what happens to them in the future.
October 10, 2015
ARC received for review
4.5 stars
It's not a full five stars cause the first half did drag a little getting through history and backstory and her training.
I absolutely loved the name of the ship, James T., made me laugh every time and think of Star Trek and the yummy Chris Pine.
Amanda was a strong female lead and Rhodry, the sexy shifter, let her, but he still wanted to protect her. There was no insta-love. It was a romance that built to love with adventure and danger. This was just a great book.
I hope this is the start to a new series cause there are great secondary characters that I want to know more about.
4.5 stars
It's not a full five stars cause the first half did drag a little getting through history and backstory and her training.
I absolutely loved the name of the ship, James T., made me laugh every time and think of Star Trek and the yummy Chris Pine.
Amanda was a strong female lead and Rhodry, the sexy shifter, let her, but he still wanted to protect her. There was no insta-love. It was a romance that built to love with adventure and danger. This was just a great book.
I hope this is the start to a new series cause there are great secondary characters that I want to know more about.
October 9, 2015
Ive previously read and enjoyed this authors Vampires in America series so could not wait to start this new futuristic series that manages to combine sci fi with paranormal elements . Now there's a huge clue in the title so I won't insult your intelligence but I will say this lost colony from Earth are not exactly what I was expecting. When they're discovered on the planet Harp a small contingent of scientists travel down to investigate. Amongst them is Amanda , a woman with remarkable intelligence and a huge desire to finally set down roots after a life in space. What she wasn't prepared for was to hear the planet and it's fauna communicating with her! Yes these trees sing a song that apparently Amanda is the only female to have ever heard .The all male Guild hear the trees in all their glory and Amanda quickly realises that joining the Guild is her only way to discover the secrets of Harp. However the natives are distrustful and the arrogant De Mendoza is gorgeous but downright unfriendly! Ok he may be the answer to a maidens prayers but Amanda is made of sterner stuff and hunkers down to just show these males what a determined woman is really capable of!
It took me a while to really get pulled into this story if honest. I thought Amanda's easy acceptance of the shifters was a tad too blasé but she's seen so much of space and it's assorted hybrids that I did come around to understanding her attitude. Speaking of attitude, that girl does not quit! Amanda sticks her chin in the air and just plows along. I loved that about her and for this reader the adventure really began when Amanda faced her trial alone and battling her way back towards the Green and civilisation. There's trickery afoot and betrayal, not to mention downright murderous intentions but this plucky heroine amazed me . Yes there's romance but what I really enjoyed was seeing the tables turn although I think if this continues as a series then Amanda might just have set the cat well and truly amongst the pidgeons ! I'm still a little nonplussed by some things but cannot fault the action that kept me gripped.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
It took me a while to really get pulled into this story if honest. I thought Amanda's easy acceptance of the shifters was a tad too blasé but she's seen so much of space and it's assorted hybrids that I did come around to understanding her attitude. Speaking of attitude, that girl does not quit! Amanda sticks her chin in the air and just plows along. I loved that about her and for this reader the adventure really began when Amanda faced her trial alone and battling her way back towards the Green and civilisation. There's trickery afoot and betrayal, not to mention downright murderous intentions but this plucky heroine amazed me . Yes there's romance but what I really enjoyed was seeing the tables turn although I think if this continues as a series then Amanda might just have set the cat well and truly amongst the pidgeons ! I'm still a little nonplussed by some things but cannot fault the action that kept me gripped.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
October 27, 2019
3.5 stars
November 7, 2016
I first saw this book talked about at Dear Author and immediately realized I was in need of a good shifter book. With a sci-fi feel to it, Shifter Planet gave me much enjoyment. It has a very slow start - please remember that if you decide to read it. But it definitely picks up and after a while, I could not put it down.
Set in a futuristic world where humans aka Earthers have gone to space to live, Amanda was born on a ship and loves to discover new planets. She is tough, smart and has a passion inside of her to find new things. Her current mission is to explore the Earth-like planet called Harp. Long ago, humans crash landed on this planet, and Amanda and the others on her ship are very curious to discover how they have survived on this planet.
There were people living on this planet - human colonists who'd had no contact with Earth in almost five hundred years. That meant a specialized First Contact team would be going down there, followed by a full scidence contingent.
The first thing Amanda notices when she lands on Harp, is that she can hear the trees singing. Realizing no one else can, she keeps this secret to herself. The lush forest on this planet seems to hold a special place, but sheis also warned that it is very dangerous and she should not go exploring on her own.
She soon meets the people who live on this planet, and our hero Rhodry. Very alpha, very cocky, Rhodry doesn't take kindly to the fact that his planet has new visitors. Being a warrior of one of five mountain clans on the planet, he wants them gone before their weapons can destroy his home. Rhodry belongs to the elite guild, a special unit sworn to protect the Green (aka the lush forest). The guild can also communicate with the trees, something Amanda finds very interesting. Obviously, with the title called Shifter Planet, you realize there are shifters on Harp, including our hero. I am going to leave the details of why they shift and who shifts etc... to uncover as you read, as Amanda is in the dark about those specifics and I feel like as the reader, it's important to go on that journey with her. But I like the background about how the shifters came to be.
Amanda decides to uncover the secrets of Harp, she is going to have to become one of them, and decides to try out to be a Guild member. Obviously the current guild members do not want her to join, and most assume this female will never make it past the tests. After Amanda aces the written exam, she must then go through a final challenge - where she is dropped off at an undisclosed location and must make her way back. This is the meaty portion of the story and the part I could not stop reading. With a ton of action, foul play, and finally a romance that blossoms, this is where Amanda and Rhodry's personalities shine. Again, I'm not going to give away specifics of what happens here, but it's really fun. It reminded me a bit of the Kresley Cole Immortals After Dark book where the characters had to go on that challenge - that was always a highlight in that series for me.
The romance is slow to build, but once it gets going, it worked very well for me. Both Amanda and Rhodry are a bit sarcastic and stubborn and butt heads. At one point Rhodry is injured and Amanda has to take control and to watch the power struggle between them is fun.
Stick with it through the slow beginning - it's worth it! Smexy reviewer, Sheena enjoyed this a lot too.
Grade: B
Set in a futuristic world where humans aka Earthers have gone to space to live, Amanda was born on a ship and loves to discover new planets. She is tough, smart and has a passion inside of her to find new things. Her current mission is to explore the Earth-like planet called Harp. Long ago, humans crash landed on this planet, and Amanda and the others on her ship are very curious to discover how they have survived on this planet.
There were people living on this planet - human colonists who'd had no contact with Earth in almost five hundred years. That meant a specialized First Contact team would be going down there, followed by a full scidence contingent.
The first thing Amanda notices when she lands on Harp, is that she can hear the trees singing. Realizing no one else can, she keeps this secret to herself. The lush forest on this planet seems to hold a special place, but sheis also warned that it is very dangerous and she should not go exploring on her own.
She soon meets the people who live on this planet, and our hero Rhodry. Very alpha, very cocky, Rhodry doesn't take kindly to the fact that his planet has new visitors. Being a warrior of one of five mountain clans on the planet, he wants them gone before their weapons can destroy his home. Rhodry belongs to the elite guild, a special unit sworn to protect the Green (aka the lush forest). The guild can also communicate with the trees, something Amanda finds very interesting. Obviously, with the title called Shifter Planet, you realize there are shifters on Harp, including our hero. I am going to leave the details of why they shift and who shifts etc... to uncover as you read, as Amanda is in the dark about those specifics and I feel like as the reader, it's important to go on that journey with her. But I like the background about how the shifters came to be.
Amanda decides to uncover the secrets of Harp, she is going to have to become one of them, and decides to try out to be a Guild member. Obviously the current guild members do not want her to join, and most assume this female will never make it past the tests. After Amanda aces the written exam, she must then go through a final challenge - where she is dropped off at an undisclosed location and must make her way back. This is the meaty portion of the story and the part I could not stop reading. With a ton of action, foul play, and finally a romance that blossoms, this is where Amanda and Rhodry's personalities shine. Again, I'm not going to give away specifics of what happens here, but it's really fun. It reminded me a bit of the Kresley Cole Immortals After Dark book where the characters had to go on that challenge - that was always a highlight in that series for me.
The romance is slow to build, but once it gets going, it worked very well for me. Both Amanda and Rhodry are a bit sarcastic and stubborn and butt heads. At one point Rhodry is injured and Amanda has to take control and to watch the power struggle between them is fun.
Stick with it through the slow beginning - it's worth it! Smexy reviewer, Sheena enjoyed this a lot too.
Grade: B
November 4, 2015
I am going to start off by saying I love D.B Reyonlds Vampires in America series but Shifter Planet not so much. I really think what was the big frustration for me was the pages and pages of text, No real meaningful interaction between the characters (main or other). We got some talking here and there but it really was all about Amanda (the heroine) and her quest to join the shifter planets Guild Hall. So the story talks about what she did, how she prepared, months going by etc. No real connection between the Rhodry (the Hero) or Amanda, at least for me.
This went on for 50 percent of the book.
Then after the 50 percent it picked up and became more interesting. A lot more talking and interacting and it became a good story.
This went on for 50 percent of the book.
Then after the 50 percent it picked up and became more interesting. A lot more talking and interacting and it became a good story.
November 4, 2016
I loved this book! I have to admit in the beginning I was not a Specialist Amanda Sumner fan. I found her arrogant and annoying. For example she practically throws a hissy fit when she finds out there are shifters on the planet and no one told her. Really? This is one of their biggest secrets, your people have done nothing but harm but they should have told you because your breathing? That irritated me. But I loved Rhodry from go. He was protective and honorable, plus being smoking hot didn't hurt. And truth be told Amanda grew on me, her personally became less entitled and more independent (is they're a difference? Of course there is) which also coincided with the story really picking up. The less I worried about her the more I realized that this was a really good book. The world building was spot on, I was never confused about where they were or what something looked like. The relationship between Rhodry and Amanda was refreshing, instant attraction but not insta-love. And the story itself was great, just enough angst to make you want to read, just a little more.
I recommend reading this, the book comes out October 26th. Grab it, you won't be disappointed. I did get a free copy from netgalley, so thank you for that!
I recommend reading this, the book comes out October 26th. Grab it, you won't be disappointed. I did get a free copy from netgalley, so thank you for that!
January 6, 2016
4.5 stars
June 9, 2019
<4
Years ago I read Ms Reynolds' only werewolf story and was intrigued by it. It seemed a pity to me that she focused all her attention of her ViA series (even if I love it) as, if I remember correctly, she wasn't at ease with shifters' stories.
Imagine what a (lovely) surprise when I realized she had written a new book, and it was a shifter story :) As a fan I couldn't resist, could I? :D
Shifter planet, ungainly title apart, was everything I wanted in a PNR romance: world-building, solid characters and, my god, a real romance! (As opposed to fated/mated/no reason to develop a love story book, not that she writes those books anyway *grin*)
Amanda is a great heroine, strong, stubborn without ever being stupid, loyal with a core of steel. It was great reading how she saved herself and the guy too, it was great to see a truly competent woman. I loved her relationship with her mother, even if it's only touched (and her mother's relationship with the admiral). And here comes my only nit, I found some secondary characters needed a stronger development, even when the same can't be same for other characters (see the mother and the admiral above, where a few touches were revealing enough). I guess it depends on their role in the story. Fionn for example was too bland for me, or maybe I simply needed a more populated planet :D
This was Amanda's story, and the focus was squarely on her and her alpha. But I missed some solidity on the other inhabitant or earthers.
It's great a new series come to life, and I hope ms Raynolds will branch out often :D
Arc courtesy of publisher via Netgalley.
Years ago I read Ms Reynolds' only werewolf story and was intrigued by it. It seemed a pity to me that she focused all her attention of her ViA series (even if I love it) as, if I remember correctly, she wasn't at ease with shifters' stories.
Imagine what a (lovely) surprise when I realized she had written a new book, and it was a shifter story :) As a fan I couldn't resist, could I? :D
Shifter planet, ungainly title apart, was everything I wanted in a PNR romance: world-building, solid characters and, my god, a real romance! (As opposed to fated/mated/no reason to develop a love story book, not that she writes those books anyway *grin*)
Amanda is a great heroine, strong, stubborn without ever being stupid, loyal with a core of steel. It was great reading how she saved herself and the guy too, it was great to see a truly competent woman. I loved her relationship with her mother, even if it's only touched (and her mother's relationship with the admiral). And here comes my only nit, I found some secondary characters needed a stronger development, even when the same can't be same for other characters (see the mother and the admiral above, where a few touches were revealing enough). I guess it depends on their role in the story. Fionn for example was too bland for me, or maybe I simply needed a more populated planet :D
This was Amanda's story, and the focus was squarely on her and her alpha. But I missed some solidity on the other inhabitant or earthers.
It's great a new series come to life, and I hope ms Raynolds will branch out often :D
Arc courtesy of publisher via Netgalley.
October 27, 2015
As a fan of DB Reynolds, I had high hopes for this new book and WOW did this book exceed my expectations. It BLEW my mind with the creativity of her world and character building, the engaging Sci-Fi/futuristic aspects, the intensity of the characters and their dedication to their way of life. Of course the romance was also sizzling hot and the chemistry between Amanda and Rhodry was evident from the start.
I know not everyone is a fan of the in depth world building and planetary history that went into this book but I, for one, enjoy knowing all I can about the characters and how they became who and what they are. And how their physical reality has influenced the choices they have made. Most especially I loved the connection that developed between them and the planet; how in tune they became with each other and how developing that sense helped them to thrive on the amazing planet called Harp. While this is not the first race of shifters I have read about in the SFR genre, I found that this was a truly unique way of looking at shifters and their origins. In fact, I have never read another book that had this type of genesis for any species (as far as I know but some of these species are very private). I was very impressed with the fact that these shifters could not exist anywhere but on this planet because it was the crash landing on this planet and the necessity to survive that created this new species. Very cool!
By the same token, Amanda would not have been who she was without the genetics and love for planetary life that she inherited. As well, being born and growing up on a spaceship obviously influenced her abilities, her life and education choices, making her the woman she needed to be when she arrived on Harp. I can’t imagine the feeling of “coming home” that would resonate within you when the trees of a planet you never knew existed until a short while ago began to sing in welcome to you. Wouldn’t you want to stay and learn all you could about this amazing place?
I enjoyed getting to know Amanda and some of the other Harp residents, both city dwellers like Prince Fionn and Guild Members such as Tonio. Feeling the chemistry and attraction between Amanda and Rhodry grow was as interesting as learning the history and development of the Guild. And when all things finally came together and these two find themselves in a fight for their lives and their love, the moments between them were hot and explosive and touching.
The secrets and truths that are revealed as they come together as a couple and fight for their rights are sad, intense and truly help define who each one is. And this is what takes this book from good to amazing for me, that so many little, inconsequential things we learned come together to finish this book in a unique and interesting way. I so enjoyed these people and their lifestyle and their trees that I truly hope she makes this into a series. I am so ready for a book 2!
I know not everyone is a fan of the in depth world building and planetary history that went into this book but I, for one, enjoy knowing all I can about the characters and how they became who and what they are. And how their physical reality has influenced the choices they have made. Most especially I loved the connection that developed between them and the planet; how in tune they became with each other and how developing that sense helped them to thrive on the amazing planet called Harp. While this is not the first race of shifters I have read about in the SFR genre, I found that this was a truly unique way of looking at shifters and their origins. In fact, I have never read another book that had this type of genesis for any species (as far as I know but some of these species are very private). I was very impressed with the fact that these shifters could not exist anywhere but on this planet because it was the crash landing on this planet and the necessity to survive that created this new species. Very cool!
By the same token, Amanda would not have been who she was without the genetics and love for planetary life that she inherited. As well, being born and growing up on a spaceship obviously influenced her abilities, her life and education choices, making her the woman she needed to be when she arrived on Harp. I can’t imagine the feeling of “coming home” that would resonate within you when the trees of a planet you never knew existed until a short while ago began to sing in welcome to you. Wouldn’t you want to stay and learn all you could about this amazing place?
I enjoyed getting to know Amanda and some of the other Harp residents, both city dwellers like Prince Fionn and Guild Members such as Tonio. Feeling the chemistry and attraction between Amanda and Rhodry grow was as interesting as learning the history and development of the Guild. And when all things finally came together and these two find themselves in a fight for their lives and their love, the moments between them were hot and explosive and touching.
The secrets and truths that are revealed as they come together as a couple and fight for their rights are sad, intense and truly help define who each one is. And this is what takes this book from good to amazing for me, that so many little, inconsequential things we learned come together to finish this book in a unique and interesting way. I so enjoyed these people and their lifestyle and their trees that I truly hope she makes this into a series. I am so ready for a book 2!
October 18, 2015
Amazing new series from a favourite author! In my top 5 reads of the year!
I am a huge D.B. Reynolds fan, her Vampires in America series is one of my all time favourites so when I saw she had a new series I hopped on Netgalley and requested an ARC and lucky me I was given one in exchange for an honest review. I will happily go out and buy this novel when it goes on sale October 26..yes it was that good!
I"m always looking for the unique, as an avid reader of PNR I do find that story lines can get repetitive or that the books all start to blend in my mind. Not with Shifter Planet. This is a totally new and unique take on the shifter sub genre of PNR...with a bit of a futuristic twist...I wouldn't say sci fi...it only happens to take place in a world in space. This story has a fresh yet raw, grittiness to it..there are truly dark moments yet with such wonderful characters the eye is always on the HEA prize. In this the first book of the series DBR took the time to build a wonderfully different world where shifters are the protectorate...strong, alpha, indomitable and caring. The characters are both strong and well matched...the conflicts so tough that there is a real suspense, action vibe to the novel. The main male Rhodry the alpha of our story is strong yet there is a vulnerability to him that DBR excels at...and like with ViA her strong female lead kicks complete ass.
This novel is my top 5 books read so far this year and I can't wait to dig into more in this series we have so much more to learn about Harp and the people who inhabit it....If I could give the book more than 5 stars I would ...what I can give it is a t'irla high recommendation and a push to make this your first purchase on OCTOBER 26....a must read! .
I am a huge D.B. Reynolds fan, her Vampires in America series is one of my all time favourites so when I saw she had a new series I hopped on Netgalley and requested an ARC and lucky me I was given one in exchange for an honest review. I will happily go out and buy this novel when it goes on sale October 26..yes it was that good!
I"m always looking for the unique, as an avid reader of PNR I do find that story lines can get repetitive or that the books all start to blend in my mind. Not with Shifter Planet. This is a totally new and unique take on the shifter sub genre of PNR...with a bit of a futuristic twist...I wouldn't say sci fi...it only happens to take place in a world in space. This story has a fresh yet raw, grittiness to it..there are truly dark moments yet with such wonderful characters the eye is always on the HEA prize. In this the first book of the series DBR took the time to build a wonderfully different world where shifters are the protectorate...strong, alpha, indomitable and caring. The characters are both strong and well matched...the conflicts so tough that there is a real suspense, action vibe to the novel. The main male Rhodry the alpha of our story is strong yet there is a vulnerability to him that DBR excels at...and like with ViA her strong female lead kicks complete ass.
This novel is my top 5 books read so far this year and I can't wait to dig into more in this series we have so much more to learn about Harp and the people who inhabit it....If I could give the book more than 5 stars I would ...what I can give it is a t'irla high recommendation and a push to make this your first purchase on OCTOBER 26....a must read! .
June 20, 2016
All those oaths he’d sworn to himself to stay away from her, telling himself that she was a complication he didn’t need. All of those excuses for ignoring the aching desire, the hunger that had consumed him from the moment they’d met… No more excuses, no more pretending. She was his, and he was going to fight for her whether she liked it or not.
I adore shifter romances and this book did not disappoint.
I loved both the main characters, the heroine was very independent and sassy, and the hero broody and bossy. Perfect combination for success ;-)
I liked that the attraction was instant, but that the romance was very slow building. These two were very hot together, and I really enjoyed their chemistry.
The world-building was fantastically done, and I really liked that this story took place on another planet, with magical trees that only a few could hear sing, and lots of dangerous predators.
The plot was captivating and very adventurous with Amanda trying to survive her guild trials and trying to prove that despite being human and a woman she was more than capable to survive.
My only complaint was that I would have preferred a HEA ending and not a HFN.
This was a really great PNR and a must read for all romance lovers who love broody shifters, sassy heroines, great world-building and an adventurous plot.
October 29, 2015
I love DBR's Vampires in America series so I was totally pumped to pick up her new book about shifters. Shifter Planet was like a mash up of Avatar and a PNR and it totally worked. The world building was a little slow in the beginning but still well done. Amanda was a strong and capable heroine without being over the top, and Rhodry was alpha and delicious. I loved the adventure plot line, but my only complaint was that when they did return to the city it seemed a little rushed. Was there no consequences for Nando and his sabotage? Maybe I missed that.
Anyway I really hope there will be more stories set in the Shifter Planet world.
Anyway I really hope there will be more stories set in the Shifter Planet world.
November 10, 2016
I've been wanting to read this book for awhile and my library finally had it. It was good (a little long) and the romance was good also with a little misunderstanding thrown in to flavor it. I enjoyed the book.
November 3, 2015
In the year 4668, human Amanda Sumner is sent to explore the planet of Harp and discovers she can hear the trees sing. Unwilling to leave the first place that has felt like home, Amanda sets out to join the Guild. The members of the mysterious Guild don't want her anywhere near their secrets and none more so than Rhodry de Mendoza. Rhodry feels the spark between him and Amanda but the human could mean disaster to his planet so he wants her gone. After a betrayal leaves them injured and away from help, Amanda and Rhodry must work together to survive Harp's most dangerous environment.
Amanda is a fabulous heroine. She's intelligent, resourceful, and incredibly brave. She jumps at the chance to visit Harp, a planet 500 years prior was colonized by humans that were forced to get...resourceful in order to survive. The big, beautiful trees in what is called the Green sing to Amanda and she knows this is her home. In order to fully explore the Green, she must become a Guild member. The book is called Shifter Planet and even though it's treated as a secret, I feel it's obvious from the start that the Guild is made of shifters that can handle the dangers within the Green. Amanda wants to be free among the trees so if that means joining the Guild, then so be it. Living on a new planet alone? Going toe to toe with big, grumpy shifters? Amanda is pretty badass without really trying to be.
Rhodry de Mendoza radiates dominance and loves his home and family more than anything. Sweet qualities and at times I like him and other times I want to strangle him. Amanda and the other earthlings are a threat and wants them gone. His body and heart desires her but he denies himself (because that always works out) and tries to dissuade her from joining the Guild out of fear for her safety. He wants to help and not help for her own good. So frustrating! For me, this is Amanda's book and Rhodry plays a supporting, yet important, part and it works for his character.
The romance is one of the weaker aspects of the book but that may be more because I'm use to bigger sparks between D.B. Reynolds' characters and this book is different from her Vampires in America series. Here, Rhodry and Amanda spend a lot of time apart yet what moments they share are filled with emotion. It's not until well into the book that things get serious. What I get is hot and full of passion but it wasn't quite enough to satisfy my romance sweet tooth.
There are so many details in Shifter Planet that as you read you feel like you're transported to Harp and really get to know its City and people. The writing is excellent and paints a great picture of the creatures and dangers lurking in the Green. There are moments where it feels like information overload and it slows the pace of the book but I can definitely say there's no lack of detail.
Aside from Amanda's bid to enter the Guild, there's a bit of family drama both within Rhodry's clan and on the outside between him and what I'll call the ruling party of Harp. This plays a part in his teaming up with Amanda in the wild during her Guild admission test and adds interesting conflict to the book. Not to mention a few characters I would love to know more about. I sure hope this is the start of a series because there is so much more I want to explore on Harp.
Amanda is a fabulous heroine. She's intelligent, resourceful, and incredibly brave. She jumps at the chance to visit Harp, a planet 500 years prior was colonized by humans that were forced to get...resourceful in order to survive. The big, beautiful trees in what is called the Green sing to Amanda and she knows this is her home. In order to fully explore the Green, she must become a Guild member. The book is called Shifter Planet and even though it's treated as a secret, I feel it's obvious from the start that the Guild is made of shifters that can handle the dangers within the Green. Amanda wants to be free among the trees so if that means joining the Guild, then so be it. Living on a new planet alone? Going toe to toe with big, grumpy shifters? Amanda is pretty badass without really trying to be.
Rhodry de Mendoza radiates dominance and loves his home and family more than anything. Sweet qualities and at times I like him and other times I want to strangle him. Amanda and the other earthlings are a threat and wants them gone. His body and heart desires her but he denies himself (because that always works out) and tries to dissuade her from joining the Guild out of fear for her safety. He wants to help and not help for her own good. So frustrating! For me, this is Amanda's book and Rhodry plays a supporting, yet important, part and it works for his character.
The romance is one of the weaker aspects of the book but that may be more because I'm use to bigger sparks between D.B. Reynolds' characters and this book is different from her Vampires in America series. Here, Rhodry and Amanda spend a lot of time apart yet what moments they share are filled with emotion. It's not until well into the book that things get serious. What I get is hot and full of passion but it wasn't quite enough to satisfy my romance sweet tooth.
There are so many details in Shifter Planet that as you read you feel like you're transported to Harp and really get to know its City and people. The writing is excellent and paints a great picture of the creatures and dangers lurking in the Green. There are moments where it feels like information overload and it slows the pace of the book but I can definitely say there's no lack of detail.
Aside from Amanda's bid to enter the Guild, there's a bit of family drama both within Rhodry's clan and on the outside between him and what I'll call the ruling party of Harp. This plays a part in his teaming up with Amanda in the wild during her Guild admission test and adds interesting conflict to the book. Not to mention a few characters I would love to know more about. I sure hope this is the start of a series because there is so much more I want to explore on Harp.
November 3, 2015
4.5/5
"You did a lot of walking today, " she said softly, moving in close. "And you'll need your strength." His eyes opened wide as her hand grazed up his thigh. He grinned and started to reach for her, then howled in outrage when she pressed her fingers directly into the still tender knife wound in his groin.
"Damn it, woman! What kind of healer are you?"
"Not kind at all," she said smugly. "Now go inside and rest while I find us a snake."
Women power! *shakes fists* I love D.B. Reynolds for her exceptionally stubborn, clever and wilful heroines. Throughout the whole book I was grinning and cheering for Amanda, while she was acing her trials and thumbing shifters' noses.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. As far as I know D.B. Reynolds hasn't written anything else in sci-fi genre, so Shifter Planet must have been a first for her, and it was done exceptionally well.
Amanda was born on a space ship and all her life has been dreaming about living on a planet. She is a specialist in first contact, so when a new planet is discovered (or shall I say, planet which dropped out of circulation for 500 years) she is beyond excited to relocate and start researching it.
There is a bit of Avatar theme going on, as the flora and fauna of the planet is extremely hostile to humans, and first Earthlings had to create a new species by splicing the gene and combining it with human genome to become more attuned to the planet itself. Not everyone has the right genes, but those who have can shift into animals and become members of the Guild - an organisation which provides protection to people travelling through the forests and which listens to the needs of the environment itself.
Amanda, all fresh eyed and excited learns that she has a special connection to that same environment and tries to enroll into The Guild. Of course, everyone is in uproar because she is (shockingly) a girl and is not a shifter.
"What if you're not the only non-shifter who can do that? What if you're the first of many? You don't only have to fail, Amanda, you have to fail spectacularly so that no norm will ever try again."
"That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard," she said in disgust. "If norms were going to line up to join the Guild, don't you think they'd have done it before now? And if that's the kind of thinking going on in the Guild, then I'm worried for the planet because it's being run by a bunch of furry idiots with dicks."
So the whole book is about Amanda getting ready for the trials to qualify as The Guild member and going through them. And that woman, ladies and gents, kicked some ass. She was amazing, so get ready not only for some spectacular action, but for some sexy times in between.
I loved this book and solidly recommend it to all the fans of UF, sci-fi and strong heroines in any genre.
"You did a lot of walking today, " she said softly, moving in close. "And you'll need your strength." His eyes opened wide as her hand grazed up his thigh. He grinned and started to reach for her, then howled in outrage when she pressed her fingers directly into the still tender knife wound in his groin.
"Damn it, woman! What kind of healer are you?"
"Not kind at all," she said smugly. "Now go inside and rest while I find us a snake."
Women power! *shakes fists* I love D.B. Reynolds for her exceptionally stubborn, clever and wilful heroines. Throughout the whole book I was grinning and cheering for Amanda, while she was acing her trials and thumbing shifters' noses.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. As far as I know D.B. Reynolds hasn't written anything else in sci-fi genre, so Shifter Planet must have been a first for her, and it was done exceptionally well.
Amanda was born on a space ship and all her life has been dreaming about living on a planet. She is a specialist in first contact, so when a new planet is discovered (or shall I say, planet which dropped out of circulation for 500 years) she is beyond excited to relocate and start researching it.
There is a bit of Avatar theme going on, as the flora and fauna of the planet is extremely hostile to humans, and first Earthlings had to create a new species by splicing the gene and combining it with human genome to become more attuned to the planet itself. Not everyone has the right genes, but those who have can shift into animals and become members of the Guild - an organisation which provides protection to people travelling through the forests and which listens to the needs of the environment itself.
Amanda, all fresh eyed and excited learns that she has a special connection to that same environment and tries to enroll into The Guild. Of course, everyone is in uproar because she is (shockingly) a girl and is not a shifter.
"What if you're not the only non-shifter who can do that? What if you're the first of many? You don't only have to fail, Amanda, you have to fail spectacularly so that no norm will ever try again."
"That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard," she said in disgust. "If norms were going to line up to join the Guild, don't you think they'd have done it before now? And if that's the kind of thinking going on in the Guild, then I'm worried for the planet because it's being run by a bunch of furry idiots with dicks."
So the whole book is about Amanda getting ready for the trials to qualify as The Guild member and going through them. And that woman, ladies and gents, kicked some ass. She was amazing, so get ready not only for some spectacular action, but for some sexy times in between.
I loved this book and solidly recommend it to all the fans of UF, sci-fi and strong heroines in any genre.
October 29, 2015
As a huge fan of D.B. Reynolds I couldn't wait to start her new series. I'm sorry to say that while I liked it, I just didn't love it. I loved the writing, and I thought Amanda was a great h. She was strong, resilient and smart which are an awesome combination for me. Rhodry was a typical Alpha very stubborn. I think my biggest problem is that it felt like information overload to me and at times I was bored. Also when they finally made their way back to the city it was to rushed. I'm really hoping that Rhodry and Amanda's story continues.
August 8, 2018
Lieutenant Amanda Sumner is on the United Earth Flagship James T. when they discover the planet Harp. A lost colony is found. Or rather their descendants. And on that planet are singing trees that Amanda can hear. Many of the colonists do not want the Earthers there but when the ship leaves, Amanda remains along with a few others.
Rhodry de Mendoza is one of those who wants the Earthers gone. There are secrets on Harp that he needs to protect. He is one of the Shifters. A group of genetically modified people created to protect the city from the planet's predators.
I won't get into more of the story but I really liked it. I am normally not a great fan of shifters stories. This author is new to me and I liked it enough that I will definitely read more.
Rhodry de Mendoza is one of those who wants the Earthers gone. There are secrets on Harp that he needs to protect. He is one of the Shifters. A group of genetically modified people created to protect the city from the planet's predators.
I won't get into more of the story but I really liked it. I am normally not a great fan of shifters stories. This author is new to me and I liked it enough that I will definitely read more.
October 6, 2015
What a great start to this new series! SHIFTER PLANET is one of those books that fires my enthusiasm and reminds me why I love to read. I was immediately drawn right in to the story and did not want to put it down. In the year 4668, Amanda Sumner serves aboard a starship as a scientist exploring the universe. The fleet travels the cosmos looking for new economic opportunities of undiscovered planets when her ship responds to an old distress call. They find a lost colony from Earth which was “an old European Union, a Spanish and Irish joint venture” from almost five hundred years ago on a very intriguing and unique planet called Harp. This small world is dominated by the Green: an area of trees, plants, and animals that controls the planet in an unusual way. The trees have a secret and so do the planet’s inhabitants which they do not want any outside “Earthers” finding out. This beautiful yet hostile planet calls to Amanda in a soul deep way. The Green speaks to Amanda in a manner she does not fully understand, so when she stays behind to help establish a base on Harp, she decides to try for membership in the Guild: a group that oversees and protects the Green which is full of danger, but necessary to the planet’s life on a deep intrinsic level. Every member of the Guild is a male shifter determined to keep their secrets from everyone else including Amanda and out of their select society. Amanda has to work twice as hard to prove herself in the testosterone filled, alpha male shifter Guild. They don’t get it that she does not want to be a man but the best version of herself and most crucially, the Green sings to her, too.
Rhodry De Mendoza, one of the clan chiefs of the shifter society is …”a big man; at several inches over six feet…probably close to three hundred pounds of pure, gorgeous muscle,” and chosen to protect the “norms” on Harp. He does not want Amanda, or any of her crew, finding out about the shifters or the special qualities of the massive and diverse trees. After an intense, immediate attraction, Rhodry fights his desire for Amanda which gives their connection a slow burn development. When they are put together in a dire situation including a fight for their lives, passions ignite and the barriers fall though their relationship still has obstacles due in part to his male shifter stubbornness as well as his clan and the Guild traditions on Harp.
I truly enjoyed this well-conceived and superbly executed story. The genre is an interesting hybrid, much like Harp’s shifters, of romance and science fiction. With a fun nod to Star Trek in the name of Amanda’s starship, the “James T,” this story of space exploration for profit rather than just adventure reminds us that humans are willing not only, in the words of that great split infinitive, “to boldly go where no man (or woman) has gone before” and explore all of creation, but also to exploit whatever they find. I like Amanda very much; she is a complex and strong yet sensitive character. Readers will find themselves rooting for her success on the epic quest as well as for her relationship with her sexy, surly shifter. Amanda Sumner, along with Cynthia Leighton, tops the list of my favorite D.B. Reynolds characters. I will be highly anticipating and longing for the next in the series.
Rhodry De Mendoza, one of the clan chiefs of the shifter society is …”a big man; at several inches over six feet…probably close to three hundred pounds of pure, gorgeous muscle,” and chosen to protect the “norms” on Harp. He does not want Amanda, or any of her crew, finding out about the shifters or the special qualities of the massive and diverse trees. After an intense, immediate attraction, Rhodry fights his desire for Amanda which gives their connection a slow burn development. When they are put together in a dire situation including a fight for their lives, passions ignite and the barriers fall though their relationship still has obstacles due in part to his male shifter stubbornness as well as his clan and the Guild traditions on Harp.
I truly enjoyed this well-conceived and superbly executed story. The genre is an interesting hybrid, much like Harp’s shifters, of romance and science fiction. With a fun nod to Star Trek in the name of Amanda’s starship, the “James T,” this story of space exploration for profit rather than just adventure reminds us that humans are willing not only, in the words of that great split infinitive, “to boldly go where no man (or woman) has gone before” and explore all of creation, but also to exploit whatever they find. I like Amanda very much; she is a complex and strong yet sensitive character. Readers will find themselves rooting for her success on the epic quest as well as for her relationship with her sexy, surly shifter. Amanda Sumner, along with Cynthia Leighton, tops the list of my favorite D.B. Reynolds characters. I will be highly anticipating and longing for the next in the series.
December 16, 2015
My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!
***Received ebook for an honest review from Netgalley
The cover is beautiful and intriguing, and it definitely made me want to read!!
This is a new world by D.B. Reynolds, and I am hoping that there will be a lot more of this planet. I am always completely amazed by D.B.’s creativity in creating her worlds not to mention the complexity she puts into them. She puts words together in a way that enthralls you and pulls you right into the story. I couldn’t put it down.
Rhodi is the typical Alpha male who wants everything his way and thinks only shifters can handle the Green. Amanda comes and throws him for a loop. She is stubborn and amazing! She is a very strong female lead that makes want to be like her. I loved this story, the world, and the characters.
I love everything by D.B. Reynolds! I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves shifters and if you have ever read and loved D.B.’s work (and if you haven’t what are you waiting for!!) I really hope that this becomes a series of some type because I want more!!!
***Received ebook for an honest review from Netgalley
The cover is beautiful and intriguing, and it definitely made me want to read!!
This is a new world by D.B. Reynolds, and I am hoping that there will be a lot more of this planet. I am always completely amazed by D.B.’s creativity in creating her worlds not to mention the complexity she puts into them. She puts words together in a way that enthralls you and pulls you right into the story. I couldn’t put it down.
Rhodi is the typical Alpha male who wants everything his way and thinks only shifters can handle the Green. Amanda comes and throws him for a loop. She is stubborn and amazing! She is a very strong female lead that makes want to be like her. I loved this story, the world, and the characters.
I love everything by D.B. Reynolds! I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves shifters and if you have ever read and loved D.B.’s work (and if you haven’t what are you waiting for!!) I really hope that this becomes a series of some type because I want more!!!
October 27, 2015
Very imaginative and very hard to put down! What I like about the book is how unexpected the story line is, it is refreshingly different with a refreshingly strong female lead. She is strong in a realistic and believable way which makes the story so much more interesting, and keeps the plot from ever becoming the same old, same old.
February 3, 2016
Loved this...review pending. I sure hope there is a sequel in the works!!!!
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