All I've wanted since my abduction from Earth's first long-range space flight is freedom from my alien captors. But when I'm sold off to a Rhonar warrior, I learn I'm not the only one enslaved on this hellish planet, and survival comes at a cost. The commanding alien they call Xelan may be in charge, but his fair dealings-and devilishly sexy charms-give me hope for the future. If I can strike an agreement with the battle-scarred warrior, perhaps together we can change the destiny of those bound in chains. And if I can't-well, I haven't backed down from a fight yet. However, as enemies line up to destroy the alien warriors and subjugate the galaxy, I discover that the universe has a sense of humor. Fated mates are real. And Xelan declares me his. How can I attain my freedom if I'm tied to another being? Even if his possessive growls and single-minded attention ignite my desires in ways I've only dreamed, I cannot be his. But how long can I fight the pull of a mating bond before I lose my head-and my heart-to the heat burning between us? Only the stars know.