A review by caughtbetweenpages
Sam's Secret by Ruby Dixon

emotional lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

My goodness, did I miss the traditional SaKhui boys from Ice Planet Barbarians! Don't get me wrong, I'm having fun with the Ice Home books, but there's something really special about the adoring, kind instincts of the men from the first series, and that return to form in Sessah (who it was really cool to see all grown up!) was especially important for this pairing. He was so overwhelmingly excited to start a family, and so much more mature as an adult about the sort of things he values in a partner. His thoughtful, caring nature, letting his partner set the pace of their relationship, and open and honest communication about his feelings made him properly perfect for Sam.

And speaking of, my goodness, did I love Sam! A good number of the human refugees are emotionally damaged in some way, but I really loved the portrayal of post-traumatic stress as it appeared in her. I found her paranoia and desire to be self sufficient quite true to life, as well as her avoidance of being alone with men. It only makes sense after her experiences on earth. And given those experiences, I was very proud of her as she slowly overcame her fear. 

I'm also glad she was given both the opportunity to allow a strange man the benefit of the doubt, and also
kill him dead when he proved himself to be a rapey, creepy piece of shit.
That sort of release isn't always given to female victims of violence, so I'm glad she got to live that out, on behalf of other victims. AND I love how ride-or-die Sessah was about it. His only regret being
that he didn't protect her from the trauma of having to experience another man trying to hurt her? And agreeing to keep it quiet
to allow Sam peace of mind afterward? Chef's kiss! 

This is one of the standout books of this spinoff series for me, and I'm excited for Ice Planet Clones.
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