Destin's Hold (The Alliance #5)

Internationally acclaimed, New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of Science Fiction, Urban Fantasy, and Paranormal Romance, S.E. Smith, brings another action, adventure, and suspense-filled story to transport readers out of this world!

Destin Parks will do whatever it takes to rebuild the city he calls home, even if it means working with another alien ambassador. Her predecessor left him hesitant to trust the alien diplomats assigned to Chicago’s rebuilding, but Destin knows that if he refuses to work with them, he will be replaced, and he won’t give them the satisfaction.

Jersula Ikera was assigned to Earth by the Alliance Council. The Council hopes her logical mind and calm demeanor will resolve the upheaval caused by the last ambassador. Jersula has fought hard for her position, and while not pleased with her current assignment to liaise with humans, she will do her best to help rebuild the world its inhabitants have destroyed. What she does not anticipate is her reaction to the hardheaded human male that she has been assigned to work with. His ability to get under her skin and ignite a flame inside her is quite alarming, mystifying, and leaves her questioning her own sanity.

When Jersula uncovers an alien cartel’s plans to traffic human women and children, a near fatal attack leaves her unable to trust anyone but Destin, who can't bring himself to trust her in return. Together, Destin and Jersula race to stop the cartel before anyone is taken off-planet, but the traffickers are not the only ones they are fighting against; Waxian and Drethulan forces have targeted Earth.

Can Destin and Jersula stop the traffickers and prevent the deadly forces of the Waxians and Drethulans from destroying the progress they have made? Will the Alliance be able to protect Destin when the enemy discovers his connection to a powerful Alliance family? The battle for Earth has just become personal. Rated '3/5 - Open door' for steam/spice/heat level.