“Because I felt like to you, I was a person.” What can I say? Waiting for Ruby Dixon to release new books is one of my favourite pastimes. Even though Ice Planet Barbarians has taken #bookstagram and #booktok by storm and rightfully so, I am somewhat more partial to Icehome. Perhaps it is the diverse cast of characters and a greater exploration of the natural world of Not-Hoth that draws me in. I mean, will you look at that gorgeous otherworldly cephalopod behind Steph and Juth on the cover? As someone who loves good world-building in sci-fi and fantasy, I really enjoyed how Steph’s Outcast delves deeper into both the natural world and cultural peculiarities of Not-Hoth. The beaching of the giant shell-beasts and the upheaval it causes in the already tenuous lives of the denizens of Icehome connects very nicely with the changing relationships between the various peoples inhabiting the planet and their concepts of insider and outsider. Ruby Dixon has a way of writing romance that is at once both mindful of real relationship issues (even in alien settings) and committed to reaching a wholesome resolution. Steph and Juth getting to know each other and their growing relationship was heartbreakingly beautiful to read. While I felt lukewarm about them individually as characters, it was easy to empathise with the challenges of their situation and their story was overall delightful and extremely satisfying. The side characters in this story like Daisy, O’jek and adorable little baby Pak (and his sentient little tail) and their relationship with the main characters are also poignant and memorable. Steph’s Outcast is not only a great new addition to the Icehome series, but also a continuation of Ruby Dixon’s efforts at carving out her unique and persuasive voice in the alien romance genre. 3.5/5 🌟 #rubydixon #stephsoutcast #icehome #iceplanetbarbarians #ipb #alienromance #foundfamily #scifiromance #bluealiens #romancebooks #bookstagramusa #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookstagrammer #romancereader #romancereadersofinstagram #romancenovels #romancebookstagram #booklover #readersofinstagram #romancereads #bookcover #bookcommunity #romancenovel https://www.instagram.com/p/CRjQJFNLcvC/?utm_medium=tumblr
