Hers to Command

Verdantia #1

by Patricia A. Knight

For some, existence without their mate might seem like the end of their world...
...for the members of Verdantia’s Tetriarch, it would be.

Conte Camliel Aristos deTano, Ari, has long spurned the marriage forced upon him. His contractual bride, Princess Fleur Constante, the beautiful future queen though young and inexperienced, is willing to risk everything, including her own sanity, to save her planet.

The inhabitants of the sentient planet, Verdantia, are poised on the precipice of extinction following a brutal invasion by an off-world, nomadic horde. Verdantia’s capital, Sylvan Mintoth, must have its failing energy shield restored, or the planet is doomed. The Elders know the shield can draw energy from only one thing ~ a very arduous and grueling coupling of two specific people who were pre-chosen by the planet Herself and promised by prearranged marriage contract.

Verdantia draws strength from the duo, but the sentient planet whispers to Ari that a third is necessary ~ Ari’s aide de camp, Visconte Doral deLorion, an angelically handsome, skilled assassin who silently surrendered his heart to Ari long ago.

The trio struggles to make this surprising partnership harmonious, pushing through pride, scars of past abuse, fears of inexperience and distrust. To save Verdantia, they must overcome their individual weaknesses and realize their full potential. Only the Tetriarch and their combined synergy, can harness Verdantia’s immense power to shield its citizens from invasion.

Be part of the Tetriarch! Get your copy today!

Genres: Science Fiction, Menage, Erotica, Fantasy, Romance, M M F, Science Fiction Romance

342 pages, Paperback

First published May 19, 2013

About the author

Patricia A. Knight is the pen name for an eternal romantic and died-in-the-wool hermit who lives in Dallas, Texas with her horses, dogs and the best man on the face of the earth. With the BMOTFOTE and pups as navigators, she travels the US in her motorcoach, affectionately dubbed, the Taj-ma-haul, on her endless search for the best chocolate cake recipe. Look for her coming to your state! (Seriously, look for her... her driving skills are sketchy.) When her PA Pam forces her to, she writes.

A Note About My Reviews:
Book reviews are wildly subjective. Many things influence whether or not a reader enjoys a book that are out of the author's control and unrelated to the quality of their writing. My book reviews deal with books I can recommend as having entertained me. For this reason you will not see reviews below a 3-star rating. My reviews are recommendations not critiques. I read books I don't like--books I can't finish. I just don't review them. I also do not review books by authors I edit. I do not review books to have mine reviewed, I'm easy to please. I don't require fine literature. Just tell me a good yarn.

I love to hear from my readers and can be reached at http://www.patriciaaknight.com. or
https://www.facebook.com/patriciaknig...
Or send me an email at patriciaknight190@gmail.com.

Reviews

[Rain · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would describe this is Fantasy-Syfy. At the core of the story is a sentient female planet that feeds off the prolonged sex energy of the few royalty. But not just any sex, hours of foreplay without release… and a bunch of magic words tossed in there.

Betrothed against his will at 16, the hero refuses to comply until absolutely necessary. As an adult, he is a fierce warrior and spends his days fighting and fucking ow.

“It was not the thought of marriage to you that was distasteful. What was distasteful was the thought of a marriage to anyone based solely on my genetics. It is how you breed animals, not people. I am not a stud horse to be bred to Patricio’s favorite mare.”

The princess is of course, a virgin. She doesn’t have the required training that she should have, so she is somewhat at his mercy.

Their world is about to be taken over, the only thing that will save them, is the betrothed couple perform the Great Rite. (Which entails days of orgasm withholding) During their final release, the planet speaks to them, requesting a third.

MFM with individual interactions, including MM
Both of the heroes are gorgeous
Pierced peen
A complicated magic system
Detailed world-building
No ow/om after everyone is together
A unique marriage with a queen and her consort(s)
HEA

Doral followed him down, his shaft pumping shallowly, filling Ari’s back passage with warmth. With every pass of Doral’s cock, Ari shuddered violently. The dual sensations of Fleur’s slippery warmth and Doral’s gentle surges prolonged and intensified his climax into an endless loop.

I really enjoyed the idea of this story. Had author taken more time with the actual characters and their growth, over the complicated descriptions of world-building, this would’ve been an amazing story. Still, quite enjoyable for what it was.

[Shurrn · Rating 5 out of 5]

All hail the Tetriarch!
I'm crazy excited that I've found a new series to sink my teeth into... Please excuse me while I gush all over this book...

"Oh yes, our planet hangs in the balance." With a tortured inhalation, he shuddered, "No pressure."

The world of Verdantia is beautifully detailed. This is a lovely blend of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Erotica, Romance, & Intrigue... And it is incredibly entertaining!

I'd like to create some kind of award for 'Best Prologue' just for this book... I was given a thorough recounting of an entire planet's History, Technology, Climatology, Sociology, and Social Hierarchy without becoming over-inundated with information... That's damn impressive!

I thrive on originality, and what I found in the pages of Hers to Command was a wonderful adventure of love, lust, and fantasy!



Let's break it down:

1. The planet Verdantia has an electromagnetic force which renders all technology useless, so even though we have all the Science Fiction hallmarks of spaceships, battle-cruisers, phasers, etc. None of these items work on the surface of the planet. Verdantians live in a pseudo-gilded-iron-age type setting... Add in the royal hierarchy and arranged marriages, and you're left with an atmosphere equal parts Science-Fiction & Historical Romance...

2. The Planet Verdantia is sentient: She has feelings, and interacts with her population. That interaction occurs when certain Verdantians have sex... Crazy, sweaty, kinky, burn-up-the sheets sex...



All this awesome sex helps the planet to flourish - it keeps the lights on, makes the crops grow, and it powers the shields which protect the planet from outside forces...

3. It stands to reason that a planet which requires Her citizens to have ritualistic fuck-fests would also have vast resources of harvestable aphrodisiac, right? Right! This sacred aphrodisiac (known as cinnagin) is used in sexual Rites and is a highly valuable resource coveted by the greedy enemies of Verdantia.

One such enemy is the Haarb. They invaded Verdantia and began systematically slaughtering Her inhabitants, leaving only a handful of Magisters capable to performing the magick necessary to generate protective shields around the planet.

Can you tell how excited I am?!?!

ARI

"You will obey me without fail. Our lives rest on your obedience."

Ari is on the front lines of the war against the invading Haarb. He is pulled from his position as Commander of Verdantia's army by an important message - the last remaining energy shield is failing, and as a trained Magister, he must return to the palace to perform the Great Rite...

But his partner for the Rite is someone he has avoided for years...
His arranged marriage to the Princess is a burden he has fought vehemently...
To his surprise, she is ignorant of the marriage contract...

FLEUR

"Gentle, fearfully delicate. So intensely desirable."

Fleur is the high-spirited princess of a world which is being driven to the point of extinction. She is the only female on the surface of the planet who is capable of performing the Great Rite necessary to power the remaining shields...

But she has not had nearly enough training...
Failure to complete the Rite is dangerous in the best of times, but now the fate of the entire planet hangs in the balance...

DORAL

"By all the gods, you are a visual feast. You devastated my senses from the first moment I saw you."

Doral is a highly skilled assassin and right hand man of Ari. He is known as The Beast - tortured by a sadistic mistress and trained to be a cold-hearted killer...

Though, Doral's heart has warmed to Ari in the time he has served as his Visconte. Not that Doral would ever voice those desires...

As Ari departs for the palace, Doral's chance at love leaves with him... But Verdantia is whispering for a third in the Rites...

It is the rise of second great Tetriarch, powerful enough to finally bring an end to the war.

All three must come together in order to save the world.

In addition, they face:
Political Corruption,
Assassination Plots,
A Fragile Romance,
Arranged Marriages,
Broken Contracts,
& Shielded Hearts...

I'll leave it to you to figure out if this book is up your cup of tea... But I fucking loved it every now and then I would wonder: Was this book written specifically for me?!?

It ticked every single box on my naughty-book check-list:
Beautiful writing,
an MMF Romance (You know I'm an MMF whore),
the perfect amount of fantasy,
panty-soaking sex of the highest caliber,
& Impossible-to-put-down fun...

Some of My Favorite Moments:

"you will obey me without fail. Our lives rest on your obedience."

Rarely had his duty run so parallel with his desires.

A vicious snarl of curses followed her rejoinder. She moved to the window, putting distance between them. "Goodness, Ari, you are creative. I don't think that last is anatomically possible,"

"Yes, well. Being balls-deep between your legs creates a certain intimacy," Ari said with a wicked grin.

"...I am not pig-headed." A small tear leaked out to trickle down her cheek.
"Ah, sweet lady, I am afraid you do need me. But I stand corrected. You are not pig-headed. You are far too beautiful." Ari considered for a moment. "Mule-headed? Hmm. Yes, I think mule-headed. There are some very lovely mules."

High Lord and Supreme Joint Commander, Camliel Aristos DeTano - diplomat, tactician, revered Verdantian military hero.

"Oh yes, our planet hangs in the balance." With a tortured inhalation, he shuddered, "No pressure."

"By all the gods, you are a visual feast. You devastated my senses from the first moment I saw you."

"Gentle, fearfully delicate. So intensely desirable."

"I never knew your tiny finger was so strong."
Fleur made a questioning sound.
"You have two very intense males throughly wrapped around it. They are yours to command m'lady."

"I made plans for your glorious self."
"Do they require nudity?"
"Extensive. Prolonged."
Fleur's smile was so wide he thought her jaw must hurt.


I loved this book so much I've already started the next book in the series! I can't think of a better recommendation than that!



My Other Reviews in the Verdantia Series:

1 - Hers to Command - You're reading it!
2 - Hers to Choose - Read my review here.
3 - Hers To Cherish - Read my review here.
4 - Hers To Claim - Read my review here

[Optimist ♰King's Wench♰ · Rating 3 out of 5]

WHERE THE HELL WAS THE COMMANDING????

*kicks rocks*

Sex was pretty hot though + points for the piercing.

*kicks more rocks*

Could've used more commanding though is all I'm saying.

[Malinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

**This was an ARC copy given by the author for a honest review**

5 stars

In all honesty, this book was great! Fleur, Ari and Doral are a awesome trio! I loved this story and have added it to my faves list. I started this book unsure what to expect but with an open mind and was surprised at just how quickly the story and characters sucked me in. I'm so glad I didn't have plans today and could read this straight through because I don't think I could have stopped reading.

This is my first experience with this author but I plan to read more. The story is very well written and the characters are very engaging. I hope the next book in the series comes out soon because I can't wait to buy it!

Fleur is the Princess of a planet that's been invaded. She's in a tough position but she doesn't balk from her responsibilities and duties (even ones that put her at risk). As things start out she's rather out of her depth and inexperienced but she learns quick and has an inner strength. She has a few "moments" (don't we all) but she didn't come across as weak or weepy. I really liked Fleur, more and more as the story went on.

Ari was forced when he was a very young man (15 years before) to sign a contact to marry Fleur. She was very young (5 or 6 yo I think) and he left the planet before she came of age to escape the contact. Ari came back to the planet after the invasion to help with the fight. Ari's a good and honorable man and couldn't stay away when there was such need.

Ari gets summoned to the Capital to perform a "Great Rite" with Fleur. He's not thrilled because he's still unwilling to be pushed in to a marriage he doesn't want. However, the planet is down to one defensively shielded area around the Capital city and that shield is almost dead. Ari and Fleur have to perform the rite or all is lost. He goes and helps Fleur perform the rite but finds himself attracted to her and starts considering going through with the marriage contract.

As things begin between Ari and Fleur and it's interesting to see them spar with each other. The attraction is strong between them so things do progress and it was sweet to see their emotions for each other grow. Just when they've decided to proceed with the wedding they find out that they are 2 of the 3 needed for a tetriarch (a very powerful trio that could save the planet if they can make it work). The 3rd ends up being Doral, Ari's second in command.

Doral works for Ari and has loved him secretly for a while. He has a tortured past where he was forced to endure horrible things and made in to a killer (a spy/assassin). Doral suffers greatly with what he feels he's become (a monster). When he finds out he's supposed to be part of the tetriarch he is willing but nervous. When he meets Fleur he's attracted to her but is afraid to hurt her. He is so worried of doing something wrong and doesn't want to overstep his bounds. Doral is like a gentle giant...he was made in to a killer and that's how most people see him but in all actuality he's sweet and sensitive. Now it's just buried under his past and only peaks out. I loved Doral...I think he is my favorite of the three (although Fleur is pretty awesome too...and Ari is great...).

Ari, Fleur and Doral learn to be together and bond while trying to secure the planet's defenses. I really liked seeing how they act towards each other once they started settling in together. They're became very much a trio of equals. Fleur doesn't get all the power because she's royalty. Ari isn't the top male leaving Doral as the lower rank male (even though according to technical rank Ari is higher). They all order each other around or get on each other's cases depending on what's going on and the situation which I just loved. I think it's one of the more even (in power) menage relationships I've seen.

And while the issue of getting their relationship working and building the planet's defenses back up is keeping things hopping, there's still more going on with the invasion and the people working against them (even from supposed allies). There's a good amount of intrigue that kept things interesting and I was pretty impressed that the author kept things going without making things confusing or hard to follow.

I don't want to give too much away but I will say that I'm very happy with the way things worked out. It was a great ending and I was so happy for Fleur, Ari and Doral (I was totally rooting for them). It was an awesome story that left me with an excitedly happy vibe at the end. This is totally worth buying and I'm already planning to buy the next in the series when it's out. I'd highly recommend this story. 2 thumbs way up! :D

11/28/15 - This was a reread and I still love the story. Ari, Doral and Fleur are a great trio and the story's very enjoyable. :)

[~ Lei ~ Reading Is An Adventure ~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received ARC from the author for an honest review*
✰✰✰✰✰

This was my 9th 5-star read for 2013 - I'm rereading because I rushed through the first read and it's just as good the second time.

I love menage reads but it's a rare menage where all three characters are equal and each has their own relationship with the other two and all three are more powerful as a triad.

This book had it all - humor, great writing, yummy sexin' - mf, mm, mfm, mmf, characters I cared about, excellent world building - the scene with Council Chair Tetaria commenting on Doral's manly attributes was quite amusing.

Ari had spent 15 years running from an arranged marriage to Fleur and finally returns to perform the Great Rite with her, a magical rite that could help resecure their planet from invaders and finds her to be much more than he imagined. As their relationship grows, the new couple receive a another curve ball, Ari's second-in-command, Doral might very well be their third in the second Tetriarch in 450 years.

I really liked the way Ari and Fleur worked separately to avenge Lady Contradina's abuse of Doral. I see nothing but greatness for this triad.

I am looking forward to future books from this new-to-me author because she hit this one out of the park.

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 5 out of 5]

Force field grid powered by crystals which require sexual energy, where is this planet? Is it possible to check to see if I have the required DNA? I would hope that I do because I'd be happy to go through the seven years of training to be subjected to high magic.  Ms. Knight is a new to me author who I will be following closely. She creates a sexually charged world with a science fiction fantasy background. When my favourite genre of science fiction is mixed with steamy BDSM, I'm completely enthralled.

The plot contains a bit of suspense and good conflict. It's a familiar trope and easy to follow. The characters Ari, Fleur and Doral are engaging and sexy. Their chemistry together is flaming hot and so good to experience.

What really sold me on this book is the erotic sex with amazing edging. I loved the BDSM elements with submission through obedience and orgasm control. Ms. Knight writes smoking hawt ménage sex. Ari is so sexy with his commands. His method of sexual torment as well as his control will make any submissive want to drop straight to their knees. There are so many delightful scenes in this story. There are also good interludes to move the plot forward. It's a nice balance between sex and plot. One of my favourite scenes is Fleur forcing Ari to have sex with her. Ari resists and ends up with a week of constant blow jobs with no orgasm. How does a man function with a hard-on all the time? It boggles the mind. The devilish kinky tortures as well as suggestive suffering under the lashes of a demanding dominatrix keeps the reader's arousal humming. This entire book is super charged erotic.


What I like about the characters is that each of them are unique. They are different pieces which combine to make the perfect kinky triad. Their strengths are different which helps them become a stronger set. They are also loving and loyal of each other. Their protective and possessive traits come to the forefront when they dole out their vengeance. Making sure their enemies pay in a horrific way makes me purr with satisfaction. I like the way Ms. Knight devious mind comes up with suitable nasty punishments. This science fiction erotica is highly recommended to kinky ménage lovers who like their sex with an edge.

*I received this book as a review copy in return for an honest review

[Kathleen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay, so this is erotic erotica, and for the genre it's probably fine, if that's your thing. I am learning to be wary of it, discovering that I'm not crazy about ménage. Plus, there was sooo much sex it got redundant. As for the plot, my view differs from many readers, but IMO, the "magickal" world-building elements are pretty thin.

The power of a crystal in the hands of destiny's epic lovers -- the plot came straight out of Sedona, and reminded me of Jayne Castle's less raunchy crystal-tuning romantica, like Midnight Crystal, or her Krentz title, Crystal Flame.

The notion of a sentient planet is handled better in Sharon Fisher's romantica, Ghost Planet, IMO.

I did like the three lovers. The Rebel Warlord Aristocrat, the Feared and Lonely Assassin, and The Courageous Virginal Princess. However, I really couldn't feel the love. The author needed to build an emotional bond, but Ari laid his Fleur on the crystal slab the moment he met her. I bonded more with the assassin, Doral.

Decent writing and editing. The cover's all wrong. She should be a blond. Ari's a redhead. Doral's a blond. They all should have very long hair.

Contents: Numerous and lengthy sex scenes, M/F, M/M, and MMF, front and rear door. Minimal swearing or profanity. A little violence, a few murders. I saw only one minor typo.

Didn't finish, but got almost 80% through.

[Vivian · Rating 4 out of 5]

War, intrigue, and ménage in a fantasy/sci-fi setting.

Doral, hands down is my favorite. A tortured assassin who is the consummate killing machine, yes, I'll take me a helping of that. It is a pleasure to watch his skill in action.

Ari, is the confident alpha male who doesn't yield--until he does, and boy is that sexy.

Fleur, is the sweet innocent princess whose duty to her country and head for diplomacy is admirable. Plus she has claws and a vicious streak when provoked.

For a story with such a serious premise, a world under attack and barely hanging on, there is a great deal of humor infused, which displaces some of the tension. This planet, Verdantia has been facing genocide and each of the characters bears scars from the war. There are points where it is dark and this helps it from dwelling there and proceeding so that it reads as more of a heroic story than a tragedy.

The villains are good, no gender bias there with enough evil lurking in the games for planetary control it is good to see the load spread. There are things about the language and names used that are going to cue thoughts or associations that for the most helped coalesce the characters and setting rather than distracting. Like all science fiction, you have to accept the rules of the world set out. If you accept, then the read is flawless. My one issue: electromagnetism and the form of warfare.

Favorite quote:
“My Lady, our first time together will be in my rooms, in my bed, on my terms. "

[Kayla Stonor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Verdantia is an erotic delight. What a planet!

Patricia Knight seamlessly weaves a whole new world, society, and culture through tantalizing, steamy scenes that make a woman yearn to experience a man (or two) with the endurance her heroes repeatedly demonstrate to the point of torture. She puts Fleur through ecstatic heaven, and a little bit of hell judging from Fleur’s demand for some serious payback on at least one occasion.

The beauty of this novel is that the Verdantian’s salvation depends on this trio spending a lot of intimate time together. This book has two strong-minded, well-endowed, and dangerous heroes, one relatively inexperienced but charming princess, and a well-crafted plot that lifts this book from the normal fare of erotica into a sci-fi fantastical feast for the senses.

Received advance review copy free in exchange for an honest review.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Erotic sci/fi romance is one of my favorite genres, and I've wanted to read this book and the entire series for some time now, after reading the positive reviews and comments of some trusted friends. I was not disappointed.

What struck me about this story is how well balanced it was, dark parts offset by humor or light moments, angst balanced by growth and healing before it got tedious, and erotic moments balanced by the solid world building of an intriguing story about the aftermath of war on a sentient planet. All of it was blended very well and kept my interest even though I wasn't able (due to life events) to read as quickly as I'd have liked.

The main characters were all admirable and I liked them - not always the case in my experience. The villains were horribly evil and their comeuppances were very satisfying. The two male protagonists, Ari and Doral, were physically attractive, sexually experienced (ie, really good at it ;P) and larger than life (in all the important areas ;P), our heroine, Fleur, beautiful beyond words, petite, and endearingly innocent was perfection itself. What kept these characters from becoming complete stereotypes of the genre, was their offsetting characteristics. Fleur was intelligent and practical, Doral emotionally vulnerable and devoted, and Ari was able to accept when he was in the wrong and see the humor of the situation.

I strongly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys erotic sci/fi in general, and good characters, a strong story, and solid writing in particular.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so much fun~ and such a wild ride, can I go again? I must admit I was a little lost in the beginning, but I soon caught up and let me tell you, I did not want to put it down. Right away you know that this planet is singular in many ways, and that the inhabitants are not conventional in their manner of creating and maintaining energy. I like that the author gave you this to start with, but I think it was lost on me until the real story began, and I could put it into context. I have to say I love fantasy, and although I don't read erotica often, I found it to be such a fun way to elevate the fantastical-ness of this space adventure. The characters are loveable, and the conflict feels personal, that is what I want from a good romance story, and that is what I got. If you love fantasy, adventure, and romance you will enjoy this book...(the steamy erotic scenes help a lot too)
A copy of this awesome tale was provided in exchange for my honest review.

[Chappy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book really snuck up on me...at around the 18% mark I almost DNF.

I read some friend reviews and this gave me the strength to hang on...I'm soooo glad I did.

I can't really say why this story didn't hook me from the beginning. I mean there is a lot of world building and the names were quite confusing but I just couldn't connect.

Then something happened and Ari didn't seem like such jerk-face anymore and Fleur became a sensual, gentle woman instead of a whiney princess. Once these 2 forgot about duties and just had regular intimate sex instead of the all-magical power-generating climaxes their people/planet require for energy; it was jaw dropping.

When beautiful Doval gets added to mix, let me tell you, it's scorching hot.

Can't wait to read more.

[Mindy (Book Snitch) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! What an erotically nice surprise! When I first started I was a little lost and confused. However, as the story progressed it started to make more sense and it was hard to put down. It was like reading an erotic retelling of Star Wars and the main focus was to create sustainable energy through performing the Great Rite. Which is basically having sex that creates energy. But... not just anyone can do this and be successful. You have to have training and discipline. So the planet depends on Ari, Doral and Fleur to spend a lot of time together having crazy hot, sweaty, panty melting sex. Oh sweet mercy the sex in this book is off the chart HAWT! I loved it!



I really enjoyed the characters also. Ari, Fleur and Doral. Fleur was a little annoying with her pouting and some of her weird off the wall comments. Doral has a complicated and dark history and I really wanted to learn more about that. Ari just commands your attention when ever hes in a room. Ari the alpha, Doral the assassin and Fleur the innocent and curious princess. Such a fantastic read! The one thing I feel that would have been really helpful is a glossary at the beginning. I think it would have really helped me understand the story a lot better.

Overall, I loved it. Yummy, filthy, sexy, panty flinging hot sex, interesting sci-fi story and great characters. Im filing this under the 2 finger, 1 handed read category.

[♂♀♂ Mary's Menage Reviews ♂♂♀ · Rating 5 out of 5]

to read my full review:

(...)

My first impression was not that good. I thought the introduction was too long, the names were a bit complicated to remember, the world description a bit too much to remember and my first reaction was that Hers to Command was a sequel. But like each book, I do my best to have an open mind and try to put images behind the words… and it worked. But I honestly enjoyed the intro only after I read the first chapter. I, then, understood the intro better and things made better sense to me.

(...)

This is the kind of story that the more you read, the more you are drowned into it and do not want to let go before the last line of the story. It is one of those book, that you definitely want an Ari and a Doral in your life. I loved the intensity of their love for the heroine and most especially Ari. I love the kind of man that have a hard time to love but once they do, they give you everything they have and more and their possession is no longer caveman act but passionate love. The line is so very thin in romance and kudos to Patricia A. Knight for making it right for me.

(...)

Finally, I would like to mention that this book is the prequel of the series and from what I understood, every single one that will follow Hers to Command will be MF. It is possible that the author add some twists and offer some MM but I see only two people in the next stories… and that is definitely a big shame for me but probably be a great thing for the MF lovers :)

[Simon Okill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hers to Command was not what I expected at all. Is it scifi - yes? Is it erotic - yes? Is it romance - yes? But most of all it is unique! Patricia Knight has created a masterpiece way better than Dune with her stunning planet of Verdantia that is sentient and needs the energy released from the act of sex to sustain it and the protective force-field surrounding it. The heroine of this erotic adventure is Fleur. She is a fiercely loyal newlywed to one of our heroes, Ari. Their world is shattered when the Haarb invade to take all the sex spice - cinnagrin which is prized throughout the known galaxy. The Haarb slaughter all in their path with the help of a traitor within the Verdantia Elders. The defensive net is destroyed, leaving Verdantia helpless. One tower survives to restore the net, but without sex it has no power. This is where Ari's male lover and assassin, Doral comes in. Literally. Fleur, Ari and Doral form a Tetriarch - a powerful three-way to boost the energy needed to restore the force field before all is lost to the brutal Haarb.
There is so much more to this incredible scifi epic, but I'll leave it to the reader to discover the wonders so richly described by this awesome author, Patricia Knight.
Hers To Command is a FIVE STAR Scifi extravaganza with enough, sex and violence to exhaust our entire planet.

[Book Ninja · Rating 3 out of 5]

The whole idea for planet to connect with people was interesting. It reminded me a little on Avatar (the movie). I was struggling with vocabulary and new words at first but through the book I get to know most of them. The story was ok but jumping from person to person and skipping months ahead was a bit confusing for me. I wanted to know what happened in meanwhile, like all the dirty details with their sex, schemes and even the Haarb. The main characters are good but I couldn't completely connect to them. I would need more emotion to do so. Nevertheless I came to love them all. Doral the brutal assassin who believe he is unworthy, Ari the wild leader and Fleur fearless princess. They become the first Tetriarch after many decades. I loved how Ari and FLour both wanted to avenge what happend to Doral. The schemes, plots and intrigues are intertwined through the whole story. Overall it’s a good erotic sci-fi story with HEA.

[Bella Jeanisse · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book surprised me to no end. It was not what I expected, although, I tried to be open minded. The story was so much more than I imagined. I loved Ari, really loved Doral and Fleur was a strong, amazing woman. I wish the book was even longer. I want more of those three!!! The sex scenes were more muted than I would have liked and some ended before starting, but the story was not all about that. The love displayed got to me and I am not into love stories. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes SciFi with romantic/erotic undertones. Actually, you don't have to like SciFi. The foreign world is explained well. Good job Patricia!!!!!

[Jeanny · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @43%
The plot just wasn't able to keep my attention.

[Drako · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, with a name like Fleur, I honestly didn't think I'd like her very much. Being who I am, I was most looking forward to Ari and Doral. However, this is a trio, so I realized I'd have to adjust to the idea anyway. Fleur is surprisingly humble for someone with a name like hers. Her obvious lack of experience sexually actually makes her more endearing. But watching her grow is the most appealing thing. She has a temper and she's fiercely loyal and protective.

Ari is the very confident type. He's been very promiscuous in the past as he ran from what his family forced him into, marriage to Fleur who was still a child while he was almost at adulthood. He's had scores of women and men, but as a commander he issued a rule that commanding officers couldn't have relations with their subordinates. Being a man of honor, he tied his own hands when it came to Doral.

Doral is probably my favorite. He's known as a ruthless killer, though few know the reasons why. He has a dark and tortured past and from the beginning it's obvious he's head over heels in love with Ari but can't act because of Ari's own rules. You feel his hurt when Ari is called away to perform the Great Rite with Fleur. He constantly shows his utter devotion to Ari, following commands with little argument and even killing for him. Finding out the details of his past made this so much better for me.

Now, the story itself. This is a very different world. Sex powers the energy of what some would call magicians. They perform their Rites during sex and the sex actually powers the shield that protect them. This is a very accepting society of sexual differences. It's kind of how I wish our world was now. So no one bats an eye at the possibility of males with males for their rights. What makes this unique is Fleur, the royal princess and heir apparent to the thrown, being paired with Ari and then Doral being added to the mix. In their society, it makes sense that Fleur would be oddly accepting of Ari's attraction to the other male and that she would fall for Doral as well.

As for the really fun part, the sex, I found it fairly hot in the beginning with just Ari and Fleur. But when Doral was added to the mix, first with Fleur, then in the first threeway, it got hotter. Hottest was when Doral finally got to take Ari while Ari got Fleur all at once. That made me regret being at work while reading. Talk about steamy.

There were a few grammatical issues here and there, nothing that took away from the story. All in all, the author has created a fascinating and unique world that I'd love to read more of.

[Doris Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Have You Missed in Star Wars?

Remember your first romance? It probably ended with holding hands, vibrating butterflies in your bellies, a kiss maybe? That's exactly what they've shown us about Anakin and Padmé! And then bang: "The wedding of Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala took place in 22 BBY by way of secret ceremony at the Varykino lake retreat in Naboo's Lake Country." Leap forward through bloody scenes of distant wars and Padmé gives birth to their twins, a baby boy and a baby girl. So, out of this romantic stuff, legends are made to last beyond the life span of a galaxy.

Have you ever wondered what actually happens at the core of these heavenly romances? What's the story behind the curtains? If you did, as I did, then waste no minute and start reading "Hers to Command" by Patricia Knight. In many space operas, including the outstanding Star Wars films, the battles and the ships and the politics and, of course, the characters in their startling garments, take the center stage. You are not allowed to peek into the intimate chambers where all the new players are made (for coming sequels), conceived out of crystal springs of love, on the surges of passion and the music of rebellious romance, as the old ones consume themselves through hells and heavens of tensions, pains and pleasures.

Have you felt betrayed by those grand space operas? Has the rating policy taken away from you the most tasteful scenes of the superb story? Not so in "Hers to Command!" While reading this exceptional book, I raised my eyes, times and times again, looking up to the blue sky - this most convenient screen to project your mind's imagination on. What I have seen has delighted my soul in too many ways to write about in a single review.

The ways of Verdantia are like the ways of Earth, some of them, or unlike the norms known to us, some more of them. What counts, at the end of the day (whatever planetary day), is that "Hers to Command" is a must read for any romantic sci-fi gal (or guy) and that this reading screams for a movie. A romantic, sensual, erotic, space opera able to nascent new lasting legends. I want to see the movie!

[Susan M (MomBlogger) · Rating 4 out of 5]

ADULT ONLY PLEASE!

As with many of the sci-fi books I've read, I had a difficult time with the first chapter. The foreign words, names and places as well as all the foreign history included in the first chapter is a lot to comprehend when thrown at me right away. It takes a bit of the enjoyment away from the story for me. Although I do enjoy Paranormal, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy, I have a hard time getting into stories that begin by throwing a bunch of foreign names, places and information at me in the first chapter. I know it is the authors' way of explaining the background of the story and the setting, but I much prefer easier to understand and easier to read names and places - or the author including it in the flow of the story - but that's just my personal preference.

Once I got through the first chapter of background and information, the story became much more interesting. I was able to start forming a mental picture of the scenes and settings that lead up to Ari and Princess Fleur's initial meeting. I fell in love with Ari and Fleur right away. I loved how "alpha male" Ari was while still being sensitive and caring enough to help Fleur through a very difficult and possibly life threatening situation.

As their feelings developed for each other, and the chaos of their world at war intensified the situation, I found the story dragging me deeper and deeper. . .continue reading and go to giveaway

(review/giveaway will be posted & link will be live no later than June 5th)

[Lynn Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4 1/2 stars

I received this book for review from the author. I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review.

The Prologue gives the reader some of the background of the planet called Verdantia so make sure that you don't skip it. After all, this is the start of the series and when you get to book two, Hers to Choose, coming out in July you want to have some knowledge of the Verdantians.

Ari, Fleur, and Doral have an interesting way to heal their planet. Too bad it wouldn't work with ours. But you never know - maybe we're not listening hard enough.

If you like your stories with a science fiction/fantasy twist, you might want to give Patricia's series a try. It also has touches of BDSM, M/M, M/F, and M/F/M. So if you also like erotic stories you'll want to give this series a try. Sex can be very nice or it can be highly physical - it depends on what you're comfortable with.

This is not a story that you want to rush. It is a short story but take your time in reading about Verdantia and its inhabitants. It's a world that does not exist and you don't want to miss anything - especially the struggles that go on. So if you are one of those people that speed reads, slow it down some and enjoy the love that Ari, Doral, and Fleur create.

[Cherryreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hers to Command is an Erotic Sci-Fi that is filled with action, intrigue and sex. The novel starts off really slow in the beginning and truth be told I was close to not finishing the book. This has only happened to me two other times before, but I am glad that I stuck with it. I think that in trying to create a new world with unique customs is very difficult and add newly created vocabulary in the mix and it may make for a difficult read. I have to say, if you can get past the prologue and through part of the first chapter, you will be riveted till the end. The author does a great job developing likable and unlikable characters. As expected there is a lot of sex M/F, M/M, and some non-consent, but it is essential to the storyline. The main antagonist Krakoll is one of the most evil characters I have had the pleasure to read about. I was really glad that the author didn’t go into too much detail when describing one of the punishments that he doled out. I’m sure that it would have given me nightmares. The three main characters Ari, Fleur, Doral are very intriguing-all have somewhat of a compelling backstory. It is the three of them that must come together in order to save their besieged planet. I am now hooked to the story and can’t wait for the next installment.
**I received this novel for free in exchange for an honest review.**

[Julia Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hers to Command is an incredible futuristic journey with espionage, suspense, romance, and steaming hot love! It had me smiling and swooning one minute and then white knuckling it hoping no one got hurt and if that wasn't enough I thought my kindle might catch fire from the intensely erotic scenes between the Fleur, Ari and Dolan.

Patricia Knight has done an incredible job creating Verdantia and Her allies with amazing clarity. She gives descriptions that make you feel you are there meeting a one eyed ambassador that wants to know how well endowed the Segundo is and if he knows how to love the Queen well. The character development of Fleur, Ari and Doral was impeccable. I was able to feel the emotions building and flowing between the Tetriarch.

Wherever the sentient world of Verdantia is...I want to go!!! This is a definite MUST READ!

[T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was a pleasant surprise! I was expecting fluff and I got substance. The story was well developed and the characters were well written. I liked the sub-plots (pun not intended, but upon re-read, I got a laugh out of it) and behind the scene stories. This was a very good book. The story theme revolves around the stories of three characters destined to come together as a threesome to save their planet (yeah, I admit the whole sex to save the planet thing is cheesy, hence my surprise that this book had more to offer than expected), in fact the focus was more on the relationship and the intimacy/love between the protagonists, rather than the sex. A great read, and I highly recommend it!

[Sophia Triad · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book. I really wanted to like it because it was a recommendation. Sadly it did not work for me.

In the beginning I was confused with all theses names of people and places flying around and when I got the hang of it, I got very bored reading the rest of the story.
No sparkles, no passion, not a very attractive story.

The only interesting person was the assassin, Doral. Ari and Fleur had no chemistry, I was actually flipping through most of the erotic scenes between these two.

[Josephine]

Left unrated, with my apologies; in this case it's not because I didn't like or didn't finish the book. I'm a bit too close to provide an unbiased review...and no. I'm not the author. Trust me. I'm the editor of this one and the two sequels.

I'm just going to add, however, that unlike many of the other reviewers, I loved the foreign terms. How many authors out there short of Dorothy Sayers remember the correct feminine ending for magister?

Most definitely placet.

[Dana aka ♥Belladonna♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3-4 stars of total space opera yumminess.

Now, if only Ms. Knight would pen a novella about Doral letting himself off of his proverbial chain. I want a scene with the triumvirate where he lets all of that dominance out! ;-)

[Leigha Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prologue

I'm a diverse reader: my bookshelves are a hodgepodge of works ranging from literary fiction, biographies, historical fiction, mysteries, thrillers, horror, paranormal, humor, history, romance (mostly Jane Austin), and - of course - tonnes and tonnes of scifi, fantasy and my new love: steampunk. What I don't have on my shelves is erotica. Nope. Not a smidge. I'm not a prude but it just didn't seem to ever cross my path until about a year ago when a friend of mine and I were in our cups. When I confessed I hadn't ever read any she gave me a copy of a certain very popular book another friend of mine had once called "TwiPorn." I blearily thought, "I like vampires," and took the book.

After I sobered up, I cracked it open and read one random chapter. When I recovered from the shock of there not being a fang in sight, I was horrified by what my friend had recommended I read. At best I could call it the worst example of sophmoronic drivel I had ever read. Cliché-rich and repetitive writing, and an unbelievably ridiculous story premise made me want to use a fruit spoon to scrub the memory of Fifty Shades of Meh from my brain. Sadly, I don't think even that would have worked. What really cracked my brainpan was that I could be so put off by one short mid-book chapter (presumably easier to like because the typical back story info-dump is over) and yet the author has made a ridiculous amount of money off this book...I mean books. Yes, sadly there is more than one book in that heinous series.

Colour me Fifty Shades of WTF!

So after this near miss with a surgical fruit spoon, I gave up on erotica. I figured I had finally met my literary Kryptonite because if that was the best erotica had to offer, I was tapping out. There was simply no way I could read it.

It turns out I was wrong - very, very wrong.

And now, the review:

A couple of weeks back, there was a call for readers to provide honest reviews of a book by Patricia A. Knight, HERS TO COMMAND and I was happy to throw my hat in the ring for the chance to read something new. I will admit, before I began to read I was nervous but cautiously optimistic. I follow Patricia Knight on Twitter and, despite the 140 character per Tweet limit, she's obviously someone who knows her way around the English language so I thought it unlikely that her book was going to force me to make a run for the flatware. On the other hand, her book bridged one of my favourite genres with one I had recently decided I hated with the flaming passion of a thousand suns (see above). Happily, after reading less than a chapter I was already thoroughly enjoying this steamy scifi and my initial reservations were long forgotten.

I don't want to ruin the fun of discovery for those who haven't yet read this book but I'll give a brief general overview: when the book begins there are three people living on the embattled planet Verdantia who don't yet know it but who are destined to be together for love, for lust and to save their entire (semi-sentient) world. Hers to Command is about Fleur, Ari, and Doral - three complex and strong yet realistically flawed heroes with complicated pasts who weren't immune to anxiety or self-doubt as they tried to build a strong polyamorous relationship while knowing the survival of their people and their living planet depended on their ability to do so. No pressure there, right?

I thought the planet Verdantia and its people were well developed and the creative story premise gave clear reasons behind the early sex between near strangers so it didn't feel gratuitous or contrived. The author also managed to skilfully balance the various story elements while still presenting a very sexy scifi so there was never a cheesy boomchickawrowwrow vibe or a point where the reader would be left wondering what happened to the story's spice. I also really liked that as the story progressed, the relationships between the characters deepened and their sexual encounters reflected that change, adding a whole new layer to the experience for them and for me as the reader.

All in all, this was a white hot supernova of an erotic scifi. The story was a good one and Patricia Knight's writing didn't disappoint. Would I recommend this book to everyone? Well let's just say I'm not giving it my granny for Christmas this year (her loss) but if you're up for a scifi with a smart and sexy MFM twist, this is definitely for you. I think it also says a lot that this book made me reconsider a pretty strong bias against a whole genre (quite a feat!).

HERS TO COMMAND gets an enthusiastic 5 stars out of 5 from me.

[t'irla ~The Bookslayer~ aka Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a hellva ride. Romance, suspense, intrigue, space ships and royality...and 2 HAWT!!!! Heroes for the Princess, oh did I mention this is an Erotic Romance?


Description:

For some, existence without their mate might seem like the end of their world--for the members of Verdantia’s Tetriarch, it would be.

Love triangles often create disastrous relationships, but the unlikely members of the Tetriarch face worldwide disaster without the successful bonding of their trio.The inhabitants of the sentient planet, Verdantia, are poised on the precipice of extinction following a brutal invasion by an off-world, nomadic horde. Verdantia’s capital, Sylvan Mintoth, must have its failing energy shield restored, or the planet is doomed. The Elders know the shield can draw energy from only one thing—a very arduous and grueling coupling of two specific people who were pre-chosen by the planet Herself and promised by prearranged marriage contract.

Conte Camliel Aristos deTano, Ari, has long spurned the marriage forced upon him. His contractual bride, Princess Fleur Constante, is the beautiful future queen. She was but six years old when the contract was signed. Though young and inexperienced, she is willing to risk everything, including her own sanity, to save her planet.

Verdantia draws strength from the duo, but the sentient planet whispers to Ari that a third is necessary – Ari’s aide de camp, Visconte Doral deLorion, an angelically handsome, skilled assassin who silently surrendered his heart to Ari long ago.

The trio struggles to make this surprising partnership harmonious, pushing through pride, scars of past abuse, fears of inexperience and distrust. To save Verdantia, they must overcome their individual weaknesses and realize their full potential.

Only the tetriarch and their combined synergy, can harness Verdantia’s immense power to shield its citizens from invasion.

*I was given this book by the Author for an Honest review*

My Thoughts:

Books with a sci-fi feel are not my normal reading fare however when I read the blurb it intrigued me and I thought I'd give it a shot. I am so glad I was adventurous! The novel started out with a prologue which was a bit dry but so very necessary to the story and I recommend that you don't skip it. PAK created an interesting world where king and queens rule the world and others hold arms against invaders . The world is Verdantia and the current ruler is Fleur. I will only scratch over the details because I think knowing too much will spoiler the book. I will tell you this land has been invaded and the planet council who is supposed to help our planet out of her world condemned it and left it open for invasion.

This is where our heroes come in Ari is in charge of the Military and Doral is his second. PAK creation of these characters were perfect Ari, Doral and Fleur all had fully rounded characters and the reader has an instant connection with them. The plot takes them through personal combats and off world threats. It offered us angst on several different levels but the angst was not whiny it was more a growing and coming of age for the character. The plot, characters and world are all based on an Erotic Romance between the three heroes and the planet so They can all live in peace and BE happy. Oh, did I mention this is a menage MMF book?

This is my first book by Patricia A Knight and I am so glad she asked me to read it. I am not sure I would have picked it up myself..I probably would have read space ships and ran in the other direction. If this had happened I would have missed an Erotic but sweet romantic story with a good strong plot and a very enjoyable read.

I rate this book 4.5 stars and look forward to reading more of her books
Thanks for the opportunity Patricia. I give this the t'irla 4 bear recommendation:)

more reviews by t'irla? tirlastalk.blogspot.ca READ RATE REVIEW the author thanks you!