I enjoy Space Operas from time to time, and if I'm honest, I picked this up due to the cover. Don't let the bit about "goddess of love" make you think this is romance book. Yes, there is a new relationship between a human and a near-human, but it isn't the main driver of this introductory adventure. Note: this is Book 1 of 8, but don't worry - you do get a satisfying story with the promise of more. In a nutshell, this is a space alliance being crushed by an evil empire. A handful of alliance ships jump away and find themselves going to protect Earth. Since I didn't read the bit about Aphrodite (itis), I was tossed the curve-ball, a.k.a. 'd.e.m' intervention in the form of a Greek Goddess. I had to chuckle, but still pressed on. So, you have the evil empire in bed with an unknown more-evil master, and an alliance and distant relative of Humans of Earth working together to survive the crushing blow of war. And yes, a new relationship brewing. The star of this show, Chase Athanotos is the archetype hero: handsome, smart, brave, and an excellent pilot. He banters with Aphrodite and patiently awaits answers to guidance as he - seemingly - can turn the tides of war. There is a small cast of characters - all fun in their own way. In all - it was entertaining. I plan to read Book 2 soon.
4 of 5 stars
From the Publisher:
When the evil Obsidian Empire delivers a deathblow against the Star Alliance, fighter pilot Lieutenant Chase Athanatos leads a band of scattered survivors to the farthest reaches of the known universe, to a little planet called Earth. But Earth is in trouble. The Obsidian Empire is hot on their trail, and unless they find a way to stop them, what's left of the Alliance and the entire planet are doomed to extinction. With the help of the beautiful Commander Sarah Kepler and under the guidance of the goddess of love Aphroditis, Chase races against time to find a way to save the planet from total annihilation. Unbeknownst to him, something dormant is coursing through Chase's blood. But does it hold the key to changing their destiny?
