A review by allingoodtime
Barbarian's Seduction by Ruby Dixon

hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

I’m enjoying a look at the humans who mated quickly and never had their stories told. The author does a good job of telling a current tale about the human and her mate that can lead to her ruminating and the origin story of the mating being told.

Marlene is so bold and isn’t afraid to take what she wants. While the other women are terrified and hoping to find a way home, Marlene has nothing tying her to Earth so she embraces her new world wholeheartedly. While Marlene is audacious, Zennek is shy and mild-mannered. He is drawn to the sensual nature of Marlene while she is drawn to his bashful nature. Zennek also has a large, welcoming family which is something Marlene never got to experience.

Although Marlene has a strong personality, she is also very observant and attuned to those around her. She’s the one who befriended a timid and anxious Ariana when her emotions pushed many others away. Marlene is always on the lookout for signs from her deceased mom that help her feel safe and cared for.

This story was like a warm hug from the series. There is tons of love and respect all around. There is also a peek into one of the more non-traditional relationships that have been alluded to in the past. Not between Marlene and Zannek, but between people close to them.