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Galactic Bonds #2
Only Good Enemies
A WOMAN ON A MISSION . . .
My name is Vesper Quill. I used to be a lowly lab rat, toiling away in obscurity developing brewmakers and other household appliances. But thanks to my seer magic and my own ingenuity, I'm now a Regal lady and the head of a successful corporation.
My mission? To destroy the Techwave, the dangerous group that has stolen my designs and plans to weaponize them against the Imperium. But when my mission takes an unexpected turn, I'm once again surrounded by enemies and fighting for my life.
Further complicating matters is Kyrion Caldaren, an arrogant Regal lord whose fate is bound to mine. Kyrion doesn't realize the two of us still have an unwanted connection that puts us both in grave danger . . . or does he?
A MAN SURROUNDED BY ENEMIES . . .
My name is Kyrion Caldaren. As the leader of the Arrows, the Imperium's elite fighting force, I've been tasked with tracking down and destroying the Techwave before they seize control of the Archipelago Galaxy.
My other mission? Find a way to assassinate Lord Callus Holloway, the Imperium ruler who wants to take my psion power for his own. Holloway is also a threat to Vesper Quill, who haunts my thoughts, despite the broken bond and distance between us.
When I realize Vesper is in danger, my priorities change, and I vow to use all my telepathic, telekinetic, and other abilities to help her. I will save Vesper from her enemies and mine-even if I have to burn down the whole bloody galaxy.
My name is Vesper Quill. I used to be a lowly lab rat, toiling away in obscurity developing brewmakers and other household appliances. But thanks to my seer magic and my own ingenuity, I'm now a Regal lady and the head of a successful corporation.
My mission? To destroy the Techwave, the dangerous group that has stolen my designs and plans to weaponize them against the Imperium. But when my mission takes an unexpected turn, I'm once again surrounded by enemies and fighting for my life.
Further complicating matters is Kyrion Caldaren, an arrogant Regal lord whose fate is bound to mine. Kyrion doesn't realize the two of us still have an unwanted connection that puts us both in grave danger . . . or does he?
A MAN SURROUNDED BY ENEMIES . . .
My name is Kyrion Caldaren. As the leader of the Arrows, the Imperium's elite fighting force, I've been tasked with tracking down and destroying the Techwave before they seize control of the Archipelago Galaxy.
My other mission? Find a way to assassinate Lord Callus Holloway, the Imperium ruler who wants to take my psion power for his own. Holloway is also a threat to Vesper Quill, who haunts my thoughts, despite the broken bond and distance between us.
When I realize Vesper is in danger, my priorities change, and I vow to use all my telepathic, telekinetic, and other abilities to help her. I will save Vesper from her enemies and mine-even if I have to burn down the whole bloody galaxy.
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2023
429 people are currently reading
1384 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Estep
95 books11.9k followersJennifer Estep is a New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling author who prowls the streets of her imagination in search of her next fantasy idea.
Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.
For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at www.JenniferEstep.com or sign up for her newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-....
FOLLOW JENNIFER ONLINE:
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/yyj59omw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_es...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jennifer_Estep
Amazon: https://amzn.to/39lCyX6
BookBub: https://tinyurl.com/y4dm3zso
Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/y638q98k
Jennifer's blog: https://tinyurl.com/2dj4afb
Jennifer's newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-...
Happy reading, everyone! 😎
Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.
For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at www.JenniferEstep.com or sign up for her newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-....
FOLLOW JENNIFER ONLINE:
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/yyj59omw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_es...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jennifer_Estep
Amazon: https://amzn.to/39lCyX6
BookBub: https://tinyurl.com/y4dm3zso
Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/y638q98k
Jennifer's blog: https://tinyurl.com/2dj4afb
Jennifer's newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-...
Happy reading, everyone! 😎
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 296 reviews
March 25, 2025
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Rating: 4 stars
'Only Good Enemies' follows a similar structure to the first book, with a clunky start that soon leads to an entertaining mix of action and romance.
Cover: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Writing: 🌟🌟🌟
Storyline: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Main character(s): 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Secondary characters: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Romance: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Narration & Audio: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The initial chapters of this sequel are packed with background information as detailed recaps and updates set the scene. While this wasn't a gripping start, the story soon gained momentum, and the high-stakes storyline was engaging despite a few convenient moments. I especially enjoyed the constant bursts of action, which were well-written and vividly described. Also, the advanced, imaginative technology kept the world interesting, although the galactic setting wasn't dramatically expanded, and some concepts felt over-explained.
"everything truly was better with a cup of tea"
Vesper's journey in this book is just as rough as the first book, even with her change in status. Through it all, her fierce determination, nerdy charm, and resilience kept her character easy to like and root for. I also appreciated the deeper dive into her fear of abandonment, which brought about some character growth. In contrast, Kyrion remains true to his arrogant and guarded personality. This often made me want to shake him for being so cagey about his feelings! Still, his dynamic with Vesper was even more compelling in this sequel, as their growing feelings are reflected in their actions and vulnerability. This meant that while their romance and fated bond received more focus in this book, it remained believable and adorable.
The supporting characters are given more attention in this sequel, with key characters from the previous book taking on larger roles and new characters being introduced. It was great to see Vesper and Kyrion lean on their friends for support, and even the antagonists are further fleshed out, adding depth to the plot. Besides, the loose ends surrounding some characters make me eager to see what's next in the series!
"It only takes a small thing to change your whole perspective, your whole life, your whole world. "
The narrators—Lauren Fortgang, James Fouhey, and Max Roll— also deserve praise. Their natural, emotive performances fit the characters and brought them to life. They even adapted slight character voices, and their narration of "pew pew" during the action scenes always made me chuckle!
See my other reviews for Jennifer Estep:
Galactic Bonds:
1. Only Bad Options
Crown of Shards Series:
1. Kill the Queen
2. Protect the Prince
3. Crush the King
You can also find more of my thoughts and discussion questions on my blog!
Rating: 4 stars
'Only Good Enemies' follows a similar structure to the first book, with a clunky start that soon leads to an entertaining mix of action and romance.
Cover: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Writing: 🌟🌟🌟
Storyline: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Main character(s): 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Secondary characters: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Romance: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Narration & Audio: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The initial chapters of this sequel are packed with background information as detailed recaps and updates set the scene. While this wasn't a gripping start, the story soon gained momentum, and the high-stakes storyline was engaging despite a few convenient moments. I especially enjoyed the constant bursts of action, which were well-written and vividly described. Also, the advanced, imaginative technology kept the world interesting, although the galactic setting wasn't dramatically expanded, and some concepts felt over-explained.
"everything truly was better with a cup of tea"
Vesper's journey in this book is just as rough as the first book, even with her change in status. Through it all, her fierce determination, nerdy charm, and resilience kept her character easy to like and root for. I also appreciated the deeper dive into her fear of abandonment, which brought about some character growth. In contrast, Kyrion remains true to his arrogant and guarded personality. This often made me want to shake him for being so cagey about his feelings! Still, his dynamic with Vesper was even more compelling in this sequel, as their growing feelings are reflected in their actions and vulnerability. This meant that while their romance and fated bond received more focus in this book, it remained believable and adorable.
The supporting characters are given more attention in this sequel, with key characters from the previous book taking on larger roles and new characters being introduced. It was great to see Vesper and Kyrion lean on their friends for support, and even the antagonists are further fleshed out, adding depth to the plot. Besides, the loose ends surrounding some characters make me eager to see what's next in the series!
"It only takes a small thing to change your whole perspective, your whole life, your whole world. "
The narrators—Lauren Fortgang, James Fouhey, and Max Roll— also deserve praise. Their natural, emotive performances fit the characters and brought them to life. They even adapted slight character voices, and their narration of "pew pew" during the action scenes always made me chuckle!
See my other reviews for Jennifer Estep:
Galactic Bonds:
1. Only Bad Options
Crown of Shards Series:
1. Kill the Queen
2. Protect the Prince
3. Crush the King
You can also find more of my thoughts and discussion questions on my blog!
January 17, 2024
My second book of 2024 is finished and I really liked this one! The story was an adventure and a half. It was very entertaining. The ending had me on the edge of my seat. The chemistry between the hero and heroine was amazing. I can't wait to see where this story takes us next.
Though the next book in this series is a novella and it's not in the main couple's POV. So I'm very much on the fence about reading it. I just don't like the guy that's going to be featured. However, the twist the author threw in at the end regarding him was definitely something.
Overall fantastic read and would definitely recommend if you're looking for a sci-fi fantasy type story with a small romantic subplot running throughout everything!
Though the next book in this series is a novella and it's not in the main couple's POV. So I'm very much on the fence about reading it. I just don't like the guy that's going to be featured. However, the twist the author threw in at the end regarding him was definitely something.
Overall fantastic read and would definitely recommend if you're looking for a sci-fi fantasy type story with a small romantic subplot running throughout everything!
November 12, 2023
Jennifer Estep writes nice speculative fiction, mixed with romance. And I need a mystery or action element to make romance palatable. She has done a good job of creating two main characters who don't expect to find a partner in life or love and then set them on the path toward both.
Vesper knows that she and Kyrion share a true bond, but he has hostile associations with the whole concept. His parents had a true bond and were used as a power source and eventually killed by Callus Holloway, Imperial leader. Holloway is a siphon, sucking magical energy from the environment and people around him. True bonds stimulate his greed for power, offering a rich source. Vesper has kept her distance, tried to run her life and her company on her own terms without troubling either man, but politics get in her way.
Estep sets things up neatly, with Vesper conditioned by her mother and her ex-boyfriend, among others, who have abandoned her in the past. Now she expects to go it alone. Kyrion also has parental issues, having been shut out of his own family by the strength of his parents' true bond. Naturally, these two are suspicious of the nature of the bond and of each other.
As in her Elemental Assassin series, Estep seems to enjoy writing about food. The main characters enjoy preparing and eating good food. Indeed, she writes food scenes much more deftly than sex scenes. Nevertheless, she has set up an interesting twist to lead us to the third installment of Galactic Bonds. Plotting is one of her strong suits, with a hook at the end of each book to encourage you to seek out the next one. I only hope that my library ponies up and purchases Zane Zimmer's book.
Vesper knows that she and Kyrion share a true bond, but he has hostile associations with the whole concept. His parents had a true bond and were used as a power source and eventually killed by Callus Holloway, Imperial leader. Holloway is a siphon, sucking magical energy from the environment and people around him. True bonds stimulate his greed for power, offering a rich source. Vesper has kept her distance, tried to run her life and her company on her own terms without troubling either man, but politics get in her way.
Estep sets things up neatly, with Vesper conditioned by her mother and her ex-boyfriend, among others, who have abandoned her in the past. Now she expects to go it alone. Kyrion also has parental issues, having been shut out of his own family by the strength of his parents' true bond. Naturally, these two are suspicious of the nature of the bond and of each other.
As in her Elemental Assassin series, Estep seems to enjoy writing about food. The main characters enjoy preparing and eating good food. Indeed, she writes food scenes much more deftly than sex scenes. Nevertheless, she has set up an interesting twist to lead us to the third installment of Galactic Bonds. Plotting is one of her strong suits, with a hook at the end of each book to encourage you to seek out the next one. I only hope that my library ponies up and purchases Zane Zimmer's book.
November 9, 2024
Only Good Enemies by Jennifer Estep
Galactic Only Good Enemies by Jennifer Estep
Galactic Bonds series #2. Science fiction space opera. Fantasy romance, slow burn. Fated mates. Dual POV. Best read in series order.
Vesper Quill used to be a lab rat, designing different pieces of household appliances. Or so she believed. Between her seer Magic and telling the wrong person about a design flaw, and fleeing for her life, Vesper is now a Regal lady and head of a successful corporation. On the bad side, she’s still fighting for her life and hiding her mating from Kyrion Caldaren. Or so she believes.
Kyrion Caldaren is the leader of the Arrows. He’s trying to destroy the Techwave before they seize control of the Archipelago Galaxy. He’s also trying to find a way to assassinate the Imperium ruler who had held and killed his family and still hold power over Kyrion. Vesper continues to haunt his thoughts even though their bond has been broken. Realizing she is still in danger changes his priorities and he will do anything to get to her and protect her.
High action and adventure, danger and altruism. Vesper and Kyrion work to protect the other and realize there is more to the whole bond thing than either of them know.
An interesting hook at the end will have you wanting to read the next book immediately. Book 4 just came out October 2024 and the last and final book will be October 2025. I’m really looking forward the rest of this series. Vesper and Kyrion are strong and ultimately fighting for good even though there is a lot of gray in there in the middle.
4.5
Galactic Only Good Enemies by Jennifer Estep
Galactic Bonds series #2. Science fiction space opera. Fantasy romance, slow burn. Fated mates. Dual POV. Best read in series order.
Vesper Quill used to be a lab rat, designing different pieces of household appliances. Or so she believed. Between her seer Magic and telling the wrong person about a design flaw, and fleeing for her life, Vesper is now a Regal lady and head of a successful corporation. On the bad side, she’s still fighting for her life and hiding her mating from Kyrion Caldaren. Or so she believes.
Kyrion Caldaren is the leader of the Arrows. He’s trying to destroy the Techwave before they seize control of the Archipelago Galaxy. He’s also trying to find a way to assassinate the Imperium ruler who had held and killed his family and still hold power over Kyrion. Vesper continues to haunt his thoughts even though their bond has been broken. Realizing she is still in danger changes his priorities and he will do anything to get to her and protect her.
High action and adventure, danger and altruism. Vesper and Kyrion work to protect the other and realize there is more to the whole bond thing than either of them know.
An interesting hook at the end will have you wanting to read the next book immediately. Book 4 just came out October 2024 and the last and final book will be October 2025. I’m really looking forward the rest of this series. Vesper and Kyrion are strong and ultimately fighting for good even though there is a lot of gray in there in the middle.
4.5
July 19, 2023
This is a fun series, and it is great to watch these characters develop as the books play out. I really enjoyed this one, as Vesper continues to really come into her own. She's so damn clever, I just love her. My heart breaks for the life she's lived, though. She's definitely earned that abandonment complex.
To that end, I don't want some reconciliation with Zane, I really don't. Yeah, yeah, apparently he helped out on the sly a little bit at the end (a very little bit) after their familial connection was revealed. I don't care. It doesn't sway me. He's a goddamn monster who happily hunted her down, watched the other arrows beat her, and handed her over to Halloway, who literally tortured her right in front of Zane. Zane who did nothing. Look, he's a fucking Nazi storm trooper. Maybe he cares a teeny iota now that he knows she's related to him. Not enough to REALLY help, but like, as long as he doesn't have to stick his neck out, he'll stand to the side like a lazy asshole while they fight their way free. Meh.
Vesper's family history is so fucking unbelievably toxic that I don't want Zane anywhere near her. She deserves so fucking much better than that. Better than that whole shitty family with the bitchy grandma who cast a child out like garbage. Fuck them all.
I figured, in book 1, that this was where it was going (the N... Or Z... On her sword when Zane carried a sword full of Zs is a nice little nudge), so the reveal wasn't surprising. I suppose it wasn't even surprising to see Zane continue to be a dutiful little terrorist stormtrooper either. Just gross, though. He can seriously fuck right off. I hope Holloway turns on that family, the way poisonous vipers tend to do. I don't want them condescending to help Vesper. I want them mired in shit, fighting for their lives, with no allies because toxic fuckers always end up standing alone when the tables are turned on them. And then Vesper can step in with Kyrion to save their asses, and when they try and come at her with their "oh, family!" shit, accepting her after she has been invaluable to them, she can say nope. Nope. Don't want none of that. I helped because that's what good people do. You are literal human trash, though, so you can fuck off with the family thing. Go back to being one of the villains of the universe, whatever, just stay out of my life. Kthxbye.
My only other quibble with this book is that I wish the "Vesper is kidnapped and tortured" wasn't such a repeating bit. I mean, it happened a couple times in book 1. It happens a couple times here. It's a quibble, though, because she's not a damsel - Vesper does a good bit of work to get herself free before anyone shows up to help her. So that's the saving grace. Though I'm tired of watching her be hurt like that over and over, if I'm being honest.
All that said, it was such a damn glorious moment when Kyrion and Vesper finally slapped their doubt (and self-doubt) down and accepted the bond, accepted their feelings for each other.
Super excited to see where the series goes next... Though I see it's a Zane novella up next and, boy, I might need a barrel of ginger ale to keep my gag reflex in check to get through that, because fuck that guy.
To that end, I don't want some reconciliation with Zane, I really don't. Yeah, yeah, apparently he helped out on the sly a little bit at the end (a very little bit) after their familial connection was revealed. I don't care. It doesn't sway me. He's a goddamn monster who happily hunted her down, watched the other arrows beat her, and handed her over to Halloway, who literally tortured her right in front of Zane. Zane who did nothing. Look, he's a fucking Nazi storm trooper. Maybe he cares a teeny iota now that he knows she's related to him. Not enough to REALLY help, but like, as long as he doesn't have to stick his neck out, he'll stand to the side like a lazy asshole while they fight their way free. Meh.
Vesper's family history is so fucking unbelievably toxic that I don't want Zane anywhere near her. She deserves so fucking much better than that. Better than that whole shitty family with the bitchy grandma who cast a child out like garbage. Fuck them all.
I figured, in book 1, that this was where it was going (the N... Or Z... On her sword when Zane carried a sword full of Zs is a nice little nudge), so the reveal wasn't surprising. I suppose it wasn't even surprising to see Zane continue to be a dutiful little terrorist stormtrooper either. Just gross, though. He can seriously fuck right off. I hope Holloway turns on that family, the way poisonous vipers tend to do. I don't want them condescending to help Vesper. I want them mired in shit, fighting for their lives, with no allies because toxic fuckers always end up standing alone when the tables are turned on them. And then Vesper can step in with Kyrion to save their asses, and when they try and come at her with their "oh, family!" shit, accepting her after she has been invaluable to them, she can say nope. Nope. Don't want none of that. I helped because that's what good people do. You are literal human trash, though, so you can fuck off with the family thing. Go back to being one of the villains of the universe, whatever, just stay out of my life. Kthxbye.
My only other quibble with this book is that I wish the "Vesper is kidnapped and tortured" wasn't such a repeating bit. I mean, it happened a couple times in book 1. It happens a couple times here. It's a quibble, though, because she's not a damsel - Vesper does a good bit of work to get herself free before anyone shows up to help her. So that's the saving grace. Though I'm tired of watching her be hurt like that over and over, if I'm being honest.
All that said, it was such a damn glorious moment when Kyrion and Vesper finally slapped their doubt (and self-doubt) down and accepted the bond, accepted their feelings for each other.
Super excited to see where the series goes next... Though I see it's a Zane novella up next and, boy, I might need a barrel of ginger ale to keep my gag reflex in check to get through that, because fuck that guy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2023
One thing I can say without any reservations, Jennifer Estep can write a rousing, heart-thumping story like no other! There are some small glitches in this second book in the series that stopped me from giving it a full five stars, but even so, one can’t argue that the story keeps one reading and loving every minute.
So, the glitches? Well, just a couple of little things - like no matter what planet they are on, the delicious food they eat is always what we love here on earth in the 21st century. Can every planet in the universe all eat the exact food we do? Actually in all things, the story reads like it is all happening on earth - so those who are looking for strong sci-fi, this probably isn’t the series to pick up. It is more an awesome action/adventure/romance that just happens to use space-ships to get around.
Personally, I also had trouble with Vesper and Kyrion’s constant nasty sniping and refusal to at least try and accept the other throughout most of the book. I prefer a growing romance to have at least some kind and warm times in order for me to believe they are falling for each other… but that is just me. And, it does all work out at the end (the very end). It was great to FINALLY see the bond solidifying and accepted.
SO…. Overall, I really did enjoy the book. Read it until my eyes couldn’t stay open at night, then got up first thing and jumped right back in - (before I even got out of bed!) because I HAD to finish it and see what happens! Now, I just have to wait for what will assuredly seem like forever to find out what’s next!
So, the glitches? Well, just a couple of little things - like no matter what planet they are on, the delicious food they eat is always what we love here on earth in the 21st century. Can every planet in the universe all eat the exact food we do? Actually in all things, the story reads like it is all happening on earth - so those who are looking for strong sci-fi, this probably isn’t the series to pick up. It is more an awesome action/adventure/romance that just happens to use space-ships to get around.
Personally, I also had trouble with Vesper and Kyrion’s constant nasty sniping and refusal to at least try and accept the other throughout most of the book. I prefer a growing romance to have at least some kind and warm times in order for me to believe they are falling for each other… but that is just me. And, it does all work out at the end (the very end). It was great to FINALLY see the bond solidifying and accepted.
SO…. Overall, I really did enjoy the book. Read it until my eyes couldn’t stay open at night, then got up first thing and jumped right back in - (before I even got out of bed!) because I HAD to finish it and see what happens! Now, I just have to wait for what will assuredly seem like forever to find out what’s next!
July 24, 2024
Fun, fast, high stakes, and romantic.
Kind of bothers me how much this book overplays its hand in giving clues.
Kind of bothers me how much this book overplays its hand in giving clues.
July 22, 2023
Brilliant characters in an impossible position.
In this galaxy The ruling classes all have psychic abilities, empathy, telekinesis, telemetry etc. The galaxy is ruled by a despot, Blackwell, who gains power from siphoning off this physical ability from bonded pairs, as such he is the strongest and most deadly psychic in the galaxy. Kyrion is the head of his elite fighters (known as Arrows) and he knows just how deadly Blackwell is as he was responsible for the prolonged torture and deaths of his parents, by constantly siphoning off their power till one day he took too much and killed Kyrion's mother. Vasper Quill is an engineer quietly beavering away in her menial job making toasters, brewmakers and other household appliances but secretly she longs to.do.something to make a difference. The galaxy is at war and has been for a long time, the enemy known as the Techwavers (terrible name I know) are destroying while planets and millions of people. So, Deeper keeps working on developing new weapons, in her own time but her employers never find any of her designs worthy of production. Vesper is alone in the world and has been since she was eight when her mother abandoned her as she didn't have any obvious psychic ability. These are the two main characters, two lost souls who have seen the worst there is but their lives cross when Vesper ends up framed for a crime and conscripted into the army fighting the Techwavers. Casper has no chance of surviving the first battle, she and the.others like her are just cannon fodder meant to distract while the real fighters (like the Arrows) destroy the enemy. But Vesper doesn't immediately die and more she rescued Kyrion from certain death. So begins the story of one couple will fight against a despot who wants their power and an army that wants to destroy the galaxy...........a pretty big order. The world they live in is very much every man for himself but along the way they do find friends willing to help ............................This is book two in the story which began with Only Bad Options which you should read first in order to understand this one fully.
In this galaxy The ruling classes all have psychic abilities, empathy, telekinesis, telemetry etc. The galaxy is ruled by a despot, Blackwell, who gains power from siphoning off this physical ability from bonded pairs, as such he is the strongest and most deadly psychic in the galaxy. Kyrion is the head of his elite fighters (known as Arrows) and he knows just how deadly Blackwell is as he was responsible for the prolonged torture and deaths of his parents, by constantly siphoning off their power till one day he took too much and killed Kyrion's mother. Vasper Quill is an engineer quietly beavering away in her menial job making toasters, brewmakers and other household appliances but secretly she longs to.do.something to make a difference. The galaxy is at war and has been for a long time, the enemy known as the Techwavers (terrible name I know) are destroying while planets and millions of people. So, Deeper keeps working on developing new weapons, in her own time but her employers never find any of her designs worthy of production. Vesper is alone in the world and has been since she was eight when her mother abandoned her as she didn't have any obvious psychic ability. These are the two main characters, two lost souls who have seen the worst there is but their lives cross when Vesper ends up framed for a crime and conscripted into the army fighting the Techwavers. Casper has no chance of surviving the first battle, she and the.others like her are just cannon fodder meant to distract while the real fighters (like the Arrows) destroy the enemy. But Vesper doesn't immediately die and more she rescued Kyrion from certain death. So begins the story of one couple will fight against a despot who wants their power and an army that wants to destroy the galaxy...........a pretty big order. The world they live in is very much every man for himself but along the way they do find friends willing to help ............................This is book two in the story which began with Only Bad Options which you should read first in order to understand this one fully.
October 8, 2023
2.5 stars.
I liked it at first but as I read on it became a bit of a disappointing follow up to the first book. The first installent hit all the beats I wanted and set us up for this book, unfortunately this one felt rushed, H and h barely got anytime together instead jumping from one minor crisis to the next often separately. It felt like the author had a checklist of things that need to be reviled or included and just lined them up and knocked them off. There were too many antagonists for me to care about a single one and it made their defeats less valuable. Honestly I wish this had been split into two books, one to focus on the tech wave antagonists and bring H and h back together and cement their relationship/accept their bond maybe even reveal who she is to her mom and out her as a traitor. Then a second to deal w the big reveals of who her father is and have them break away from Holloway, defeat the twins, and set up Zane for his book which seems to be where this is going next.
I liked it at first but as I read on it became a bit of a disappointing follow up to the first book. The first installent hit all the beats I wanted and set us up for this book, unfortunately this one felt rushed, H and h barely got anytime together instead jumping from one minor crisis to the next often separately. It felt like the author had a checklist of things that need to be reviled or included and just lined them up and knocked them off. There were too many antagonists for me to care about a single one and it made their defeats less valuable. Honestly I wish this had been split into two books, one to focus on the tech wave antagonists and bring H and h back together and cement their relationship/accept their bond maybe even reveal who she is to her mom and out her as a traitor. Then a second to deal w the big reveals of who her father is and have them break away from Holloway, defeat the twins, and set up Zane for his book which seems to be where this is going next.
December 1, 2023
3.5
I won’t go the full Monty (4 stars) as I went to bed and put the book down…and I wasn’t moved to keep reading the next day. It took me 3 days to pick it up again... Obviously it says nothing against the book in itself, but it does say to me I wasn’t fully invested.
I’m not sure whether I’ll keep reading this series.
I won’t go the full Monty (4 stars) as I went to bed and put the book down…and I wasn’t moved to keep reading the next day. It took me 3 days to pick it up again... Obviously it says nothing against the book in itself, but it does say to me I wasn’t fully invested.
I’m not sure whether I’ll keep reading this series.
November 17, 2024
Not for the faint of heart
Four months have passed since the events at the end of Only Bad Options (OBO). Vesper Quill has taken over the former Kent Corporation, by purchasing a controlling interest of its shares, appointing herself CEO, and renaming it the Quill Corporation. Its profits have exploded because of massive sales of her fantastic household-appliance inventions. Because she is a Seer psion, Vesper has foreknowledge that she will soon be approached by leaders of the Techwave, a terrorist group trying to take down the Imperium planetary alliance, which has been ruled with an iron fist for the past 30 years by the evil emperor, Lord Callus Holloway. Unfortunately, her vision did not provide enough information to prevent her from formulating an inaccurate impression about how that encounter would go down. She has assumed that the Techwave will attempt to bribe her to join their cause, not kidnap her, in order to force her, via bloody torture, to join their ranks. Fortunately, she is not without self-defense abilities. For months she has trained to fight with her personal stormsword, under the supervision of one of the foremost swordfighters in the Imperium, and because of their truebond, she has access to Kyrion's psionic powers.
OGE offers an endless stream of violence and misery for the beleaguered Vesper and, to a secondary degree, for Kyrion as well. Until the final chapter in this novel, there is not a single break in the action. I'm all for the plot of an action-adventure, militaristic, SF novel's keeping things lively. But there is such a thing as the artistic choice to provide occasional moments of rest amidst ongoing frenzy, in order to keep the audience from becoming numb with gruesome overload, and the FMC's sufferings becoming tiresomely redundant. In that regard, in particular, I got really burned out on Vesper's being kidnapped and tortured not one, not two, but three whole times in this story! I found myself yelling at the story, "Oh come on! Give me a break! Not again!"
In addition, if a story is going to rely on the FMC perpetually pitted against impossible odds, then the salvation of the FMC from those odds should be equally, continually credible. Not so with this story. In the climax scene, in particular, the Big Bad is implausibly inconsistent with the use of his telekinesis to prevent backtalk. And in multiple fight scenes, injuries to either Vesper or Kyrion, which are serious enough to, at times, be life threatening, are treated as if they are no more inhibiting than a muscle sprain, until it is safe for them to collapse onto a med-bay treatment table inside a getaway spaceship. I realize this approach has been implemented in order to incessantly face Vesper and Kyrion with a multitude of murderous enemies, but that doesn't make it any less aggravating. Nor do I excuse it because this convention is commonplace in macho-male, action-adventure movies. I (admittedly idealistically) expect more from female authors writing SF romance that is primarily aimed toward a female audience.
This "enemies to lovers" romance between Vesper and Kyrion is the slowest of slowburn. They do not even kiss in OBO. In this book, their first kiss does not arrive until 50%, and there is no further sensual contact until they finally consummate their relationship during the next-to-last chapter. On the plus side, however, after all the buildup between them, we are not cheated out of experiencing their lovemaking. It actually takes place on the page rather than offstage. And, even better, it is sensitively written, with no crude language, and the focus is on passionate affection rather than mindless lust.
A central mystery of both OBO and OGE--Who is Vesper's biological father?--is not answered until an add-on chapter in Zane's point of view, after this book is finished. But at least there were sufficient hints during the latter part of OGE to allow the reader to make an accurate guess as to who he is.
I experienced this novel in audiobook format. Though the narrators did a good job, listening to the story in audio drastically slowed down my forward progression through Vesper's agony. For that reason, due to my expectation that her pain and suffering will not abate in any future book in this series from Vesper's POV, I will not be purchasing any more audiobooks from this series. Instead, I will be buying an eminently skimmable Kindle version.
Four months have passed since the events at the end of Only Bad Options (OBO). Vesper Quill has taken over the former Kent Corporation, by purchasing a controlling interest of its shares, appointing herself CEO, and renaming it the Quill Corporation. Its profits have exploded because of massive sales of her fantastic household-appliance inventions. Because she is a Seer psion, Vesper has foreknowledge that she will soon be approached by leaders of the Techwave, a terrorist group trying to take down the Imperium planetary alliance, which has been ruled with an iron fist for the past 30 years by the evil emperor, Lord Callus Holloway. Unfortunately, her vision did not provide enough information to prevent her from formulating an inaccurate impression about how that encounter would go down. She has assumed that the Techwave will attempt to bribe her to join their cause, not kidnap her, in order to force her, via bloody torture, to join their ranks. Fortunately, she is not without self-defense abilities. For months she has trained to fight with her personal stormsword, under the supervision of one of the foremost swordfighters in the Imperium, and because of their truebond, she has access to Kyrion's psionic powers.
OGE offers an endless stream of violence and misery for the beleaguered Vesper and, to a secondary degree, for Kyrion as well. Until the final chapter in this novel, there is not a single break in the action. I'm all for the plot of an action-adventure, militaristic, SF novel's keeping things lively. But there is such a thing as the artistic choice to provide occasional moments of rest amidst ongoing frenzy, in order to keep the audience from becoming numb with gruesome overload, and the FMC's sufferings becoming tiresomely redundant. In that regard, in particular, I got really burned out on Vesper's being kidnapped and tortured not one, not two, but three whole times in this story! I found myself yelling at the story, "Oh come on! Give me a break! Not again!"
In addition, if a story is going to rely on the FMC perpetually pitted against impossible odds, then the salvation of the FMC from those odds should be equally, continually credible. Not so with this story. In the climax scene, in particular, the Big Bad is implausibly inconsistent with the use of his telekinesis to prevent backtalk. And in multiple fight scenes, injuries to either Vesper or Kyrion, which are serious enough to, at times, be life threatening, are treated as if they are no more inhibiting than a muscle sprain, until it is safe for them to collapse onto a med-bay treatment table inside a getaway spaceship. I realize this approach has been implemented in order to incessantly face Vesper and Kyrion with a multitude of murderous enemies, but that doesn't make it any less aggravating. Nor do I excuse it because this convention is commonplace in macho-male, action-adventure movies. I (admittedly idealistically) expect more from female authors writing SF romance that is primarily aimed toward a female audience.
This "enemies to lovers" romance between Vesper and Kyrion is the slowest of slowburn. They do not even kiss in OBO. In this book, their first kiss does not arrive until 50%, and there is no further sensual contact until they finally consummate their relationship during the next-to-last chapter. On the plus side, however, after all the buildup between them, we are not cheated out of experiencing their lovemaking. It actually takes place on the page rather than offstage. And, even better, it is sensitively written, with no crude language, and the focus is on passionate affection rather than mindless lust.
A central mystery of both OBO and OGE--Who is Vesper's biological father?--is not answered until an add-on chapter in Zane's point of view, after this book is finished. But at least there were sufficient hints during the latter part of OGE to allow the reader to make an accurate guess as to who he is.
I experienced this novel in audiobook format. Though the narrators did a good job, listening to the story in audio drastically slowed down my forward progression through Vesper's agony. For that reason, due to my expectation that her pain and suffering will not abate in any future book in this series from Vesper's POV, I will not be purchasing any more audiobooks from this series. Instead, I will be buying an eminently skimmable Kindle version.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2023
I finished this a week ago and I should absolutely not have let this review sit this long because I don't have much to say at this point. I do think that the series suffers a bit when the leads are not together, but if it moves forward I don't think they can't be except as a way of heightening stakes? Very happy I gave this series a try this year though.
February 23, 2024
This book and the Galactic Bonds series are the perfect balance of magic, pew! pew! pew!, and royal romance. If any of these three are your gig, you’ll enjoy this book. If all three of these things are your gig, you’ll really enjoy this book. The series also has an interesting take on the “bonding” sub-genre in all its good, bad, and ugly.
Bravo and cheers for a fun series so far.
Bravo and cheers for a fun series so far.
June 28, 2024
I really enjoyed this second book in the series. It had been a while since I had read the first one but the author did a great job weaving in what had previously happened. There was lots of action and good romance. I also really enjoy the space element. I am excited to read the next one.
August 17, 2023
While the author does a lovely job of recapping events from Only Bad Options, I recommend listening in the order of release.
Vesper Quill is now head of the company whose leader sent her off-planet to be killed. She is still hiding her bond with Kyrion Caldaren, the leader of the Arrows. She is hiding the bond for several reasons. 1. She doesn’t think Kyrion wants it. 2. Lord Callus Holloway, the Imperium ruler, will hold them captive and drain them of their power, like he did Kyrion’s parents.
The world is interesting with royalty and a hierarchy similar to those in historical fiction… only off planet with magic and cool tech. When Vesper is kidnapped by Techwave, Holloway sends Kyrion along with bonded twins to destroy Techwave and kill Vesper. The tale that unfolds kept me listening way past my bedtime.
I adore Vesper, even if she is sometimes too stubborn for her own good. Granted, it has taken Kyrion a beat to realize his feelings for Vesper. I love their interactions and heat and the non-stop action.
While the world is revealed as we go further into the series, I love the set up, from the popstar treatment of Royals to the magic and technology.
Only Good Enemies offered an engaging tale that built, advanced the plot and provided an ending that left me eager for the next audio release. Fans of space opera and science fiction with strong romantic elements will want to grab this series.
The audio was well done and narrated by Lauren Fortgang, James Fouhey, and Max Roll. I felt they captured the voices of these characters and the tone of Estep’s story. I highly recommend listening.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Vesper Quill is now head of the company whose leader sent her off-planet to be killed. She is still hiding her bond with Kyrion Caldaren, the leader of the Arrows. She is hiding the bond for several reasons. 1. She doesn’t think Kyrion wants it. 2. Lord Callus Holloway, the Imperium ruler, will hold them captive and drain them of their power, like he did Kyrion’s parents.
The world is interesting with royalty and a hierarchy similar to those in historical fiction… only off planet with magic and cool tech. When Vesper is kidnapped by Techwave, Holloway sends Kyrion along with bonded twins to destroy Techwave and kill Vesper. The tale that unfolds kept me listening way past my bedtime.
I adore Vesper, even if she is sometimes too stubborn for her own good. Granted, it has taken Kyrion a beat to realize his feelings for Vesper. I love their interactions and heat and the non-stop action.
While the world is revealed as we go further into the series, I love the set up, from the popstar treatment of Royals to the magic and technology.
Only Good Enemies offered an engaging tale that built, advanced the plot and provided an ending that left me eager for the next audio release. Fans of space opera and science fiction with strong romantic elements will want to grab this series.
The audio was well done and narrated by Lauren Fortgang, James Fouhey, and Max Roll. I felt they captured the voices of these characters and the tone of Estep’s story. I highly recommend listening.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
August 30, 2025
“I don’t get no respect,” comedian Rodney Dangerfield once said and neither does Lady Vesper Quill. Vesper may be a newly-minted aristocrat and head of her own prosperous company because she saved a ruler and countless lives, but you wouldn’t know it based on the disgruntlement from several interested parties that do not wish her happiness or success. Jennifer Estep’s Only Bad Enemies takes up right where Only Bad Options left off.
Only Bad Enemies opens with brilliant R&D scientist and psychic Vesper Quill waiting for the TechWave enemy to approach her about siding with them against the Imperium just as her predecessor did. Vesper may hate the Imperium’s leader and is determined that he comes to a sticky end, but the Imperium are a better prospect of governance than the evil mass destruction in lives of the TechWave. Vesper’s plan is to let the TechWave come to her, tag them with her little tracers and track them to their secret installations. Meanwhile, she’s keeping the secret that she and a certain arrogant Regal lord and head of the elite Arrows still shares a psychic bonding. No way will she admit even to herself that she misses him and wished he wanted their bond. But, alas her plans go awry and she needs the help of Lord Kyrion Calderen to escape a surprise kidnapping and worse.
Kyrion has gone months without seeing Vesper, but as much as he tries he can’t get the infernal female off his mind. Was breaking the bond a mistake? No, not when he stares into the power-greedy eyes of Callus Holloway who has just ordered Kyrion to find Vesper Quill and… kill her. Its likely a test of Kyrion’s loyalty and to discover if the bond is intact, but he can’t not go to Vesper’s aid. And, to add to the challenge, Holloway sends Kyrion with Zane and two of the most sadistic Arrows there are.
Only Bad Enemies had an exciting action sequence when Vesper and Kyrion were up against the Techwave, but the political intriguing moments and surprise reveals were just as intense in a different way. I loved seeing the progress of Vesper and Kyrion’s tempestuous relationship. Both are unsure if the bond has created the feelings they have for each other and Vesper is doubly hesitant to believe in her feelings after being abandoned by her own mother and then Kyrion’s early reluctance to be bonded. The advancement of the series plot threads is at a good pace, wrapping up some things and leaving others to carry on into the next book.
All in all, this is coming along as an entertaining and engaging Space Opera series that I’m eager to continue and recommend to others to put on their TBR piles.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 8.20.25
Only Bad Enemies opens with brilliant R&D scientist and psychic Vesper Quill waiting for the TechWave enemy to approach her about siding with them against the Imperium just as her predecessor did. Vesper may hate the Imperium’s leader and is determined that he comes to a sticky end, but the Imperium are a better prospect of governance than the evil mass destruction in lives of the TechWave. Vesper’s plan is to let the TechWave come to her, tag them with her little tracers and track them to their secret installations. Meanwhile, she’s keeping the secret that she and a certain arrogant Regal lord and head of the elite Arrows still shares a psychic bonding. No way will she admit even to herself that she misses him and wished he wanted their bond. But, alas her plans go awry and she needs the help of Lord Kyrion Calderen to escape a surprise kidnapping and worse.
Kyrion has gone months without seeing Vesper, but as much as he tries he can’t get the infernal female off his mind. Was breaking the bond a mistake? No, not when he stares into the power-greedy eyes of Callus Holloway who has just ordered Kyrion to find Vesper Quill and… kill her. Its likely a test of Kyrion’s loyalty and to discover if the bond is intact, but he can’t not go to Vesper’s aid. And, to add to the challenge, Holloway sends Kyrion with Zane and two of the most sadistic Arrows there are.
Only Bad Enemies had an exciting action sequence when Vesper and Kyrion were up against the Techwave, but the political intriguing moments and surprise reveals were just as intense in a different way. I loved seeing the progress of Vesper and Kyrion’s tempestuous relationship. Both are unsure if the bond has created the feelings they have for each other and Vesper is doubly hesitant to believe in her feelings after being abandoned by her own mother and then Kyrion’s early reluctance to be bonded. The advancement of the series plot threads is at a good pace, wrapping up some things and leaving others to carry on into the next book.
All in all, this is coming along as an entertaining and engaging Space Opera series that I’m eager to continue and recommend to others to put on their TBR piles.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 8.20.25
October 24, 2023
I really love this series. It took me a while to read this one just because the plot requires more concentration than I've had available, but I'm so glad I finally managed to get myself there. Lot of really good moments in this one, but I was a big fan of Kyrion's "oh wow I have friends" moment and obviously "I would burn down the galaxy for you." Obviously.
Only reason I'm knocking a star off is
Only reason I'm knocking a star off is
June 27, 2023
Reviewed on Lili Lost in a Book
I have been eagerly anticipating this book ever since I read Only Bad Options last year. As some of you may or may not know, I’ve been really into sci-fi lately—that is all I want to read these days, so this series came at a perfect time. Especially because it’s so good! This is Jennifer Estep’s first foray into the sci-fi genre, and she is doing it so well! Plus, she weaves fantasy elements into it and it made it that much better! It was so good! I can’t get over it!
One of my favorite things about Jennifer’s writing is that her characters always have some cool and interesting powers, and this book and series are no different. Vesper is a Seer and can see when something is not going right, whether it’s one of the appliances she created or a dangerous situation she suddenly found herself in. And Kyrion is a telekinetic and telepath. But what I like is that the characters always find some really interesting ways to use their abilities to get out of tough situations.
Another thing I loved about this book was the romance. The enemies-to-lovers, the slow-burn romance... I loved it all! The quips and the bickering between Vesper and Kyrion were so much fun! I loved it! Especially when their attraction for one another flared and they got all
And they tried to suppress those feelings because they thought it was the Truebond influencing their emotions, both of them unsure whether their feelings are their own. It was really heartbreaking to see them struggle through this, but it’s also very understandable. Imagine you find yourself in a similar circumstance, with a soulmates-like situation on your hands: are you attracted to this person because of this bond, or because of your own free will?
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Kyrion and Vesper both struggle with this throughout the book, and I enjoyed following them on their journey as they parsed through their feelings and tried to live with the Truebond that was definitely not as severed as they were hoping at the end of the last book.
And on top of the Truebond and their feelings, they also have to contend with Holloway and him finding out about said Truebond and him inevitably feeding on them. It’s absolutely horrible what this man does! Kyrion has been trying to find a way to eliminate him but has not been successful thus far.
Another heartbreaking thing that Vesper had to deal with was her mother. Well, it was more frustrating and surprising, but it was also really sad because Nerezza cares about no one but herself. And we got a lot of Nerezza in this book—a lot of shocking things when it came to her. She and Vesper had a really tough conversation, Nerezza talking about her daughter like she was nothing but leverage to become a Regal. And when that didn’t work, she basically abandoned the child. And Nerezza obviously doesn’t know that Vesper is her daughter, but it was just so heartbreaking to see how cold she was. I’m interested to see where this plotline is going to go in the next book because the things that went down in this book were insane!
And I’m just looking forward to the next book in general. This book was SO good! The action and overall story were good and very engaging, the world was amazing, and the characters and their relationships were complex and interesting. I liked seeing Vesper and Kyrion’s relationship evolve as they navigated obstacles, and what it actually means to have a Truebond. I also loved seeing Kyrion’s softer, sweeter side when it came to Vesper. Zane and Asterin are two characters I’m very intrigued by. I loved Asterin and that she wasn’t just your average Regal. Zane is an Arrow and a sort of frenemy of Kyrion’s, but there’s more to the guy. And after that Epilogue, I need to know more! Luckily the next story in this series is a novella revolving around Zane, and I am very excited! I’m looking forward to seeing how all the plot twists we got in this book will play into the next one. I can’t wait!
I have been eagerly anticipating this book ever since I read Only Bad Options last year. As some of you may or may not know, I’ve been really into sci-fi lately—that is all I want to read these days, so this series came at a perfect time. Especially because it’s so good! This is Jennifer Estep’s first foray into the sci-fi genre, and she is doing it so well! Plus, she weaves fantasy elements into it and it made it that much better! It was so good! I can’t get over it!
One of my favorite things about Jennifer’s writing is that her characters always have some cool and interesting powers, and this book and series are no different. Vesper is a Seer and can see when something is not going right, whether it’s one of the appliances she created or a dangerous situation she suddenly found herself in. And Kyrion is a telekinetic and telepath. But what I like is that the characters always find some really interesting ways to use their abilities to get out of tough situations.
Another thing I loved about this book was the romance. The enemies-to-lovers, the slow-burn romance... I loved it all! The quips and the bickering between Vesper and Kyrion were so much fun! I loved it! Especially when their attraction for one another flared and they got all
And they tried to suppress those feelings because they thought it was the Truebond influencing their emotions, both of them unsure whether their feelings are their own. It was really heartbreaking to see them struggle through this, but it’s also very understandable. Imagine you find yourself in a similar circumstance, with a soulmates-like situation on your hands: are you attracted to this person because of this bond, or because of your own free will?
<Kyrion and Vesper both struggle with this throughout the book, and I enjoyed following them on their journey as they parsed through their feelings and tried to live with the Truebond that was definitely not as severed as they were hoping at the end of the last book.
And on top of the Truebond and their feelings, they also have to contend with Holloway and him finding out about said Truebond and him inevitably feeding on them. It’s absolutely horrible what this man does! Kyrion has been trying to find a way to eliminate him but has not been successful thus far.
Another heartbreaking thing that Vesper had to deal with was her mother. Well, it was more frustrating and surprising, but it was also really sad because Nerezza cares about no one but herself. And we got a lot of Nerezza in this book—a lot of shocking things when it came to her. She and Vesper had a really tough conversation, Nerezza talking about her daughter like she was nothing but leverage to become a Regal. And when that didn’t work, she basically abandoned the child. And Nerezza obviously doesn’t know that Vesper is her daughter, but it was just so heartbreaking to see how cold she was. I’m interested to see where this plotline is going to go in the next book because the things that went down in this book were insane!
And I’m just looking forward to the next book in general. This book was SO good! The action and overall story were good and very engaging, the world was amazing, and the characters and their relationships were complex and interesting. I liked seeing Vesper and Kyrion’s relationship evolve as they navigated obstacles, and what it actually means to have a Truebond. I also loved seeing Kyrion’s softer, sweeter side when it came to Vesper. Zane and Asterin are two characters I’m very intrigued by. I loved Asterin and that she wasn’t just your average Regal. Zane is an Arrow and a sort of frenemy of Kyrion’s, but there’s more to the guy. And after that Epilogue, I need to know more! Luckily the next story in this series is a novella revolving around Zane, and I am very excited! I’m looking forward to seeing how all the plot twists we got in this book will play into the next one. I can’t wait!
August 13, 2023
Only Good Enemies continues the tale of Vesper and Kyrion, an unlikely pair that is destined to be. After Vesper assists in the unveiling of enemies within the Royals, she takes over the former Kent Corp and institutes her own designs for improved tech. She is still bonded to Kyrion, but has hidden that fact from both Kyrion and the Imperium Leader, Callus Holloway. When the terrorist group, TechWave, kidnaps Vesper, Holloway sends Kyrion and a few select Arrows to retrieve and kill her.
Only Good Enemies is filled with lots of exciting adventures, ambitious battle scenes, and a lovely romance! I found I enjoyed the second adventure more than the first now that I understand the rules of the world. Vesper is taking full advantage of her new station in life, but she continues to hide her connection to Kyrion because she doesn’t want to burden him. I enjoyed her internal debate on whether or not her feelings for Kyrion are driven by the truebond or her free will. I appreciate that the author gives the characters the space to discover more about the bond and their feelings. Kyrion uses the bond as an excuse to stay away from Vesper, but he knows his feelings are true. I adored their developing romance. I also love that the pair spends most of the book working together to face their common enemies.
As I mentioned in my review of the first book, Only Bad Options, the Galactic Bond world isn’t strictly science fiction or fantasy, rather an interesting blend. The setting includes a number of distant planets, with an incredible amount of unexplained tech. Several characters have magical mind powers, which I liken to the Psy abilities from Nalini Singh’s series. What continues to bother me, although not as much as in the first book, is that Vesper’s seer magic does too many different things, giving her way too many convenient advantages. She also has an incredible brain and develops amazing tech and has bonded to a “super” sword. And due to her truebond, she can draw on Kyrion’s power/knowledge. All of these advantages together give her a way to get out of any situation. With that said, I love that Vesper hires a top-tier fighter to train her and that she’s taking steps to improve her personal safety, rather than allowing her abilities and luck to guide her. And as the story develops, Vesper does struggle, making her seem less advantaged than in the first half of the book.
Overall, I enjoyed my return trip to the Galactic Bonds world. Only Good Enemies moves the overarching plot forward by a bunch, while dropping a few twists and turns, allowing the story to remain unfinished. The book as a satisfying conclusion, but I’m excited to see what happens next.
My Rating: B+
Review copy provided by author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Only Good Enemies is filled with lots of exciting adventures, ambitious battle scenes, and a lovely romance! I found I enjoyed the second adventure more than the first now that I understand the rules of the world. Vesper is taking full advantage of her new station in life, but she continues to hide her connection to Kyrion because she doesn’t want to burden him. I enjoyed her internal debate on whether or not her feelings for Kyrion are driven by the truebond or her free will. I appreciate that the author gives the characters the space to discover more about the bond and their feelings. Kyrion uses the bond as an excuse to stay away from Vesper, but he knows his feelings are true. I adored their developing romance. I also love that the pair spends most of the book working together to face their common enemies.
As I mentioned in my review of the first book, Only Bad Options, the Galactic Bond world isn’t strictly science fiction or fantasy, rather an interesting blend. The setting includes a number of distant planets, with an incredible amount of unexplained tech. Several characters have magical mind powers, which I liken to the Psy abilities from Nalini Singh’s series. What continues to bother me, although not as much as in the first book, is that Vesper’s seer magic does too many different things, giving her way too many convenient advantages. She also has an incredible brain and develops amazing tech and has bonded to a “super” sword. And due to her truebond, she can draw on Kyrion’s power/knowledge. All of these advantages together give her a way to get out of any situation. With that said, I love that Vesper hires a top-tier fighter to train her and that she’s taking steps to improve her personal safety, rather than allowing her abilities and luck to guide her. And as the story develops, Vesper does struggle, making her seem less advantaged than in the first half of the book.
Overall, I enjoyed my return trip to the Galactic Bonds world. Only Good Enemies moves the overarching plot forward by a bunch, while dropping a few twists and turns, allowing the story to remain unfinished. The book as a satisfying conclusion, but I’m excited to see what happens next.
My Rating: B+
Review copy provided by author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
September 26, 2023
I still really enjoyed this one but I did love the first one just a bit more. That being said, the story in this one flows well, there are a good amount of twists and some well done romance. I didn't find those twists very surprising but I enjoyed them all the same. I love the bits with their powers being used, especially Vesper learning more about how her Seer gifts work and how strong she actually is. I would have liked more time with Kyr and Vesper together on page but they spent the majority of the book apart for various reasons.
I cannot wait for the Zane novella to come out!
I cannot wait for the Zane novella to come out!
July 22, 2023
Only Good Enemies was one of my most anticipated reads of 2023. I had it in my priority shelf since I read the first part. And Jennifer Estep did a good job delivering.
CHARACTERS = 4.25/5
Kyrion and Vesper are a duo I can easily get behind. Both are strong characters with established personalities who are used to problem solving. Their dynamic is something I love—easy banter with deep care for each other. The side characters was another treat. I love that the bonds between all of them are strengthening.
PLOT = 4/5
Though not something I couldn't have guessed (therefore no blind twists), the plot was still interesting with the true bond manifesting and secrets getting revealed.
I enjoyed the book overall. It was more of a fun read then a roller-coaster ride.
CHARACTERS = 4.25/5
Kyrion and Vesper are a duo I can easily get behind. Both are strong characters with established personalities who are used to problem solving. Their dynamic is something I love—easy banter with deep care for each other. The side characters was another treat. I love that the bonds between all of them are strengthening.
PLOT = 4/5
Though not something I couldn't have guessed (therefore no blind twists), the plot was still interesting with the true bond manifesting and secrets getting revealed.
"...I never thought anyone could accept the darkness inside me, the monstrous things I’ve done in order to survive.”
She cupped my cheek. “That same darkness is inside me too. Maybe that’s the thing that connects us, more than any other.”
I enjoyed the book overall. It was more of a fun read then a roller-coaster ride.
July 26, 2023
Soooo good! The characters, the story, the plot twists. The ending isn’t a cliffhanger but written so I’m overly excited for more. Literal squealing, giggling, and kicking my feet. And the next book/novella is in Zane’s POV?!? Excitement is through the roof! It is going to be sooooo good.
July 22, 2023
3.5
The sci-fi Action was plentiful. The plot was solid with a few nice twists. Only Good Enemiies has a fated mate trope, so there is some the angst that typically goes with these romantic pairings, and it was enjoyable watching Kryrion and Vesper grow into their 'powers.' The next book in the series looks good too.
The sci-fi Action was plentiful. The plot was solid with a few nice twists. Only Good Enemiies has a fated mate trope, so there is some the angst that typically goes with these romantic pairings, and it was enjoyable watching Kryrion and Vesper grow into their 'powers.' The next book in the series looks good too.
July 12, 2023
The book starts with a clever recap of everything that had happened in the first book, bringing us up to speed before sweeping us up in a torrent of well-paced action and surprise reveals.
You can take the girl out of the R&D lab, but you can’t take the lab out of the girl. Vesper is still the slightly awkward tech nerd wanting to build things that make the world a better place. Only now she had the actual means to make that happen. But underneath her newly promoted civilized image, her need for revenge is burning hot. Kyrion is still the same brooding hottie that’s even more determined to eradicate the Techwave and find a way to beat Callus Holloway.
Kyrion and Vesper had so many things to deal with, but the most pressing matter was figuring out whether their feelings were real, or just there because of the bond. And did it even matter? It was spectacularly satisfying when they finally committed to the bond. (Hope this isn’t a spoiler – you all saw it coming, right?) I couldn’t tear myself away from the frenzied action that subsequently followed, and my heart was in my throat until the end. And what an epilogue that was!
The author also did an excellent job of creating thoroughly hateful villains and seemingly hopeless situations for our heroes.
I can highly recommend this series is you like strong, capable characters, magic, and nail-biting action. The books should definitely be read in order and I’m already looking forward to whatever comes next. Vesper and Kyrion take turns telling the story, both in the first person.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 1, 2023
This series is maybe my favourite discovery of the year. It's a beautiful slow burn space opera, with magic and technology and existing together & a main couple who are literally like "I would burn down the galaxy for you", like literally what else would I want?!
July 19, 2023
This one was just as good as the first, but went easier because we knew the world and the characters.
I wished that now Vesper is a Regal Lady and running the business that things would have been great for her, no issues in her life. Sadly that was not the case, the least being she was still bonded to Kyrion. I liked that by the end of the book they worked that out, but it took time and them talking. Along the way they both had to face things from the past coming back at them and dealing with them.
I'm intrigued where things will go from here, Vesper learned new things about herself, she and Kyrion seem like they are going to make the bond a real thing and then there is the 3rd dark horse. So much there wasn't what it seemed and I'm sure they will come into play again, will be fun to see if they are friend or foe.
I wished that now Vesper is a Regal Lady and running the business that things would have been great for her, no issues in her life. Sadly that was not the case, the least being she was still bonded to Kyrion. I liked that by the end of the book they worked that out, but it took time and them talking. Along the way they both had to face things from the past coming back at them and dealing with them.
I'm intrigued where things will go from here, Vesper learned new things about herself, she and Kyrion seem like they are going to make the bond a real thing and then there is the 3rd dark horse. So much there wasn't what it seemed and I'm sure they will come into play again, will be fun to see if they are friend or foe.
March 10, 2025
2025 Reads #101/250
4.25🌟
4.25🌟
July 28, 2023
4.5 ☆
October 26, 2023
3.5 book 1 was better.
This is a good series, but truthfully I found this a bit of a slog. I'm just not into characters who are so frustratingly ignorant of their own feelings and who willfully and stubbornly do stupid things that they know are stupid.
A lot of action in this one. It was basically one escape after another - but I loved the wrap up and I like the side characters a lot. I'm interested to see where it all goes, I think.
This is a good series, but truthfully I found this a bit of a slog. I'm just not into characters who are so frustratingly ignorant of their own feelings and who willfully and stubbornly do stupid things that they know are stupid.
A lot of action in this one. It was basically one escape after another - but I loved the wrap up and I like the side characters a lot. I'm interested to see where it all goes, I think.
May 10, 2023
4.4☆. Problem with reading a review copy is you have that much longer to wait for the next book!
While these are set in space the stories are quick paced. I love Vesper's mechanical genius and that her magic is different from what I've seen in years, and that is no easy challenge.
I didn't give it a 5 because it's a bit predictable. Nothing caught me off guard plot wise, although it did hit emotionally. The author has a great sense of humor.
Fun, witty, quick action... and I want a Stormsword! 😆
Can't wait for the next book and see what happens with characters I cannot name, read and find out for yourself!
Note- I'm not a sci-fi or space opera fan and enjoyed this. Not even sure what genre to peg it as. And I've read more in my life than some libraries won, so it's hard to catch me off guard plot wise.
While these are set in space the stories are quick paced. I love Vesper's mechanical genius and that her magic is different from what I've seen in years, and that is no easy challenge.
I didn't give it a 5 because it's a bit predictable. Nothing caught me off guard plot wise, although it did hit emotionally. The author has a great sense of humor.
Fun, witty, quick action... and I want a Stormsword! 😆
Can't wait for the next book and see what happens with characters I cannot name, read and find out for yourself!
Note- I'm not a sci-fi or space opera fan and enjoyed this. Not even sure what genre to peg it as. And I've read more in my life than some libraries won, so it's hard to catch me off guard plot wise.
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