#BookReview – “Unforgettable Lover” by Rosalie Redd

Blurb

The Betram ritual, when the full moon occurs on the summer solstice, is a sexual rite—and a requirement—for all unbonded Stiyaha of age. The irresistible urge to mate drives their inner beasts. Some succumb and transform, while others hide behind masks. None can escape the compelling need.

For Leonna, Betram offers one night of freedom from a destiny she doesn’t want. Eager to participate, she’s drawn to a formidable male whose tenderness burrows into her soul. Despite discovering she’s below his status, she is caught up in their passionate frenzy, and loses her heart to a male she can never have.

Though reluctant, as an unbonded male, Prince Nicholai must participate in the Betram ritual. Because he fears harming anyone he gets close to, he dons his mask and vows to stay in human form. What he doesn’t expect is the intensity of his hunger for a certain honeyed female hidden behind a disguise. As much as he longs to forget her, he can’t, for she’s unforgettable.

Review

In the prequel to the Warriors of Lemuria series, Prince Nikolai is one of the strongest warriors of the Stiyaha (a shape-shifting race from another planet sent to earth to battle the evil Gossums), and he lives his life around duty and responsibility. He fears he will fail the people he cares for, which prohibits him from making many friends and taking a mate.

Leonna yearns for freedom. The responsibility of her family’s honey-making business weighs heavily on her shoulders, and all she wants to do with her life is paint. Though she’s looking forward to the Betram ritual—a sexual rite all unbonded Stiyaha males and females must attend, to help them find mates—she doesn’t want a mate, at least until she meets Nikolai. Though both of them are wearing disguises, she recognizes him as the future king and believes they can never be together beyond the Betram.

I really liked Nikolai and Leonna. They’re both hardworking, loyal people who are trapped under their families’ expectations and needs, and I think their plight could speak to a lot of readers.

Though I enjoyed the story and understood the environment/world in which the characters lived, I’m relieved I’ve already read book one in the series. The first book just gave much more detailed information about the world than this novella did. The writing is strong, but there were a few minor typos. Since this story takes place 600 years ago, in the 1400s, I was surprised the characters spoke like people from contemporary times, and not in more old-fashioned terms.

Anyway, it’s a good story, and I look forward to reading more from Ms. Redd.

4 Stars

Disclaimer – I bought this book for my own enjoyment. I am not paid or compensated in any way, shape, or form for this honest review. I will not change or alter this review for any reason unless at my discretion.