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Homebound

Book 1 in the series:Rix Universe

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Homebound by Lydia Hope is a science fiction romance set on a dystopian Earth. The story follows Gemma, a prison guard at a human and alien prison, who forms a deep connection with an alien prisoner named Simon. The book explores their evolving relationship, the challenges they face in a corrupt and harsh environment, and the mysterious world they inhabit. Despite some flaws in writing style and world-building, the plot captivates readers with its strong characters and unique setting.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Gemma as a compassionate heroine and Simon as a complex and emotionally rich alien figure, transcending traditional tropes.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is mostly clear with some noted grammatical issues and awkward phrases, providing emotional depth but occasionally disrupting the narrative flow.

Plot/Storyline:

The story revolves around Gemma, a prison worker caring for a sick alien inmate named Simon, showcasing themes of survival, slow-burn romance, and societal questions.

Setting:

The setting is a dystopian Earth characterized by poverty and a prison environment, though broader world-building leaves some aspects unclear.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally slow, focused on developing characters and relationships, but some readers find the conclusion abrupt and unsatisfying.
Back then, no taxpayer money had been spared on the prison’s construction. Copious amounts of reinforced concrete had been poured in a precise fashion to resemble a medieval castle, and the resulting ...

Notes:

Gemma is a heroine with a very naivety, reminiscent of classic fairytale characters.
She works as a janitor in a prison for aliens and primarily cares for a sick alien named Simon.
The story features a strong world-building component and a slow-burn romance.
Gemma's compassion contrasts with a bleak and harsh environment, highlighting her strength despite her vulnerability.
Simon, the alien, is described as having unusual anatomy and is protective of Gemma as the story progresses.
The book includes themes of poverty, violence, and survival in a dystopian setting post-alien invasion.
There are some critiques regarding the book's editing, with complaints about grammar and syntax errors.
Readers appreciate the character development and depth of their relationship as it transitions from caretaker to deeper love.
The novel ends abruptly, leaving some readers wanting more closure or an epilogue.
Homebound has garnered a dedicated following in the alien romance genre, with many readers enjoying the unique storyline and emotional depth.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of sexual assault and violence, particularly relating to the treatment of prisoners.

Has Romance?

The romance is a significant focus of the story, driving the character development and plot.

From The Publisher:

Earth is in decline, and the wealthy have fled it leaving only the destitute citizens behind. And aliens.

Gemma McKinley works at a prison cleaning goop off the floors and serving food to inmates. When she is reassigned to the alien ward, Gemma is nervous. Aliens are dangerous and ruthless. They bite. But there is one that isn't like them. Simon is damaged, starved, and wasting away in complete isolation. Touched by his loneliness, Gemma starts nursing him back to health, dismissing rumors that he's high-risk, ignoring the advice to let him croak.

Simon despises humans. His only goal is to get off this miserable planet fast, for he is hunted by a scientist obsessed with perfecting the human race. Simon's rare alien genes are just the ingredient that's missing for breakthrough research. Thanks to Gemma, for the first time in years he can escape.

And he will. He will…

As the hunt for Simon heats up, Gemma becomes an unintended target. Is she a fool to help him get away? And will he risk another captivity to protect her?

Ratings (35)

Incredible (9)
Loved It (12)
Liked It (12)
It Was OK (2)

Reader Stats (60):

Read It (36)
Want To Read (12)
Not Interested (12)

1 comment(s)

Loved It
7 months

The storyline was fantastic. A tense story and the main character was different, not easy.

 
 
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