Only Bad Options

Galactic Bonds, Book 1

By: Jennifer Estep

Narrated by: Lauren Fortgang, James Fouhey

“This is space opera at its finest.”—Ilona Andrews, #1 New York Times bestselling author

New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Estep blasts off with an exciting new science-fiction fantasy adventure with a dash of historical romance. This action-packed space opera features a mix of magic and technology, along with a soulmates and enemies-to-lovers story. Perfect for fans of Star Wars, Bridgerton, and Pride and Prejudice.

A WOMAN WHO SEES EVERYTHING . . .

Few people know the name Vesper Quill. To most folks, I’m just a lowly lab rat who designs brewmakers and other household appliances in the research and development lab at the powerful Kent Corp. But when I point out a design flaw and a safety hazard in the new line of Kent Corp spaceships, everyone knows who I am—and wants to eliminate me.

I might be a seer with a photographic memory, but I don’t see the trouble headed my way until it’s too late. Suddenly, I’m surrounded by enemies and fighting for my life.

I don’t think things can get any worse until I meet Kyrion Caldaren, an arrogant Regal lord who insists that we have a connection, one that could be the death of us both.

A MAN WHO CAN’T FORGET HIS PAST . . .

The name Kyrion Caldaren strikes fear in the hearts of people across the Archipelago Galaxy. As the leader of the Arrows, the Imperium’s elite fighting force, I’m used to being a villain, as well as the personal assassin of Lord Callus Holloway. Even the wealthy Regals who live on the planet of Corios are afraid of me.

But everything changes when I meet Vesper Quill. I might be a powerful psion with telepathic, telekinetic, and other abilities, but Vesper sees far too many of my secrets.

Thanks to an arcane, unwanted quirk of psionic magic, the two of us are forced to work together to unravel a dangerous conspiracy and outwit the deadly enemies who want to bend us to their will.

©2022 Jennifer Estep (P)2022 Audible, Inc.

Couldn’t put it down

Interesting and different! Kept me engaged and couldn’t put it down! SciFi with a bit of fantasy

Unique

I am a big reader and it takes a lot to wow me. I enjoyed this book greatly. The main characters had flaws and were not god built. I am excited for the next book

Banter

I enjoyed the internal banter of the characters. It was not a deep book, but it was enjoyable.

Great Soap Opera Scifi but narration was off

What I appreciated most about this book was that it wasn't the typical insta-love story that I've come across in other "fated-mates" trope books. The forced relationship was actually a challenge to overcome which I found a refreshing change and a more satisfying and believable love story.

However, I did have some issues with the narration. While the male narrator was serviceable, his voice didn't quite match the character that I had imagined in my head. Of course, this could just be a matter of personal preference.

As for the female narrator, I had previously enjoyed her work in the Kill the Queen series. However, in the beginning of this audiobook, her performance left me feeling somewhat underwhelmed. It seemed like she was portraying the main character as being somewhat apathetic or depressed, which didn't quite match the tone that I had expected. That being said, I do think that narration is a highly personal thing and others may have a different experience with this performance.

Despite my issues with the narration, the story itself was engaging and well-written.

a wonderful book, full of excitement

I enjoyed the book tremendously. it's complete on its own, but I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. I'll definitely be reading it. I always love a kick-ass heroine