THE BAD BOYS GUIDE TO THE GALAXY – Karen Kelley
Kensington Brava
ISBN: 978-0-7582-1769-1
July 2008
Science Fiction Romance

Texas – Present Day

Sam Jones is happy that his friend and partner Nick has found love, even if Kia is an alien from Nerak. Sam is even more ecstatic that he’s going on vacation and can get a little rest and relaxation after the unsettling events when Kia showed up. But before he can effectively disappear, the unexpected happens again as Kia’s sister, Lara, shows up, desperate to find a cure for one of Nerak’s Elders who has become ill. Suddenly, Sam’s relaxing vacation includes an uppity alien whom he, in one moment wants to strangle, and in another to drag her off to bed.

Lara is determined to resist the temptations of Earth, including chocolate and sex. Unfortunately, determination and will power are two different things, and before too long, she’s indulging in both. But she hasn’t forgotten her purpose in leaving Nerak, nor the fact that she’ll eventually have to go back. First, though, there are some things she plans to enjoy…thoroughly.

THE BAD BOYS GUIDE TO THE GALAXY is another romantic comedy from Karen Kelley featuring the women of Nerak and the Earthmen who love them. Chocolate and sex feature heavily in both the romance and the humor, as it has in previous tales. Even more hilarious is Lara’s reaction to alcohol and the somewhat painful results of the encounter. Although you get a bit of background about both Sam and Lara, the tale is a bit shallow. More intriguing is the glimpse into the lives of Aasera and Lyraka, secondary characters whom you’ll want to learn more about.

While there are several chuckles to be had and some sizzling sexual encounters, that special something that grabs you and keeps you engaged with the characters and story is missing. THE BAD BOYS GUIDE TO THE GALAXY is good, but somewhat forgettable.

Kathy Samuels