Sue Mercury's Royal Alien Mate is a captivating blend of romance, science fiction, and adventure, set against the backdrop of interplanetary politics and cultural clashes. The novel explores themes of sacrifice, love, and redemption, all while weaving a narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

The story begins with Esmay, a young woman burdened by the weight of her family's financial troubles. In a desperate bid to save her parents from debtor's prison, she makes the bold decision to become an alien mail order bride. This premise sets the stage for a tale that is as much about personal growth as it is about romance. Esmay's journey to Mars is not just a physical one; it is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Her character is well-developed, and readers will find themselves rooting for her as she navigates the complexities of her new life.

Upon arriving on Mars, Esmay is introduced to Prince Vaath, a character who is both intriguing and intimidating. Vaath is a blue-skinned alien prince with a past that haunts him. His leadership in a deadly battle against Earth has left a scar on his reputation, and he is acutely aware of the fear and mistrust that humans have towards him. This adds a layer of complexity to his character, making him more than just a typical romantic hero. Vaath's internal struggle between his duty to his people and his growing affection for Esmay is a central theme in the novel.

The chemistry between Esmay and Vaath is palpable, and Mercury does an excellent job of building their relationship in a way that feels organic and believable. Their interactions are filled with tension and tenderness, and the gradual development of their bond is one of the novel's highlights. Esmay's initial fear and skepticism towards Vaath slowly give way to understanding and affection, and Vaath's determination to win her heart is both endearing and compelling.

One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of cultural differences and the challenges that come with them. The Martian society is depicted as one that is struggling to adapt to the influx of human females, and the tension between the two species is palpable. Mercury uses this backdrop to explore themes of acceptance and understanding, and the novel ultimately delivers a message of hope and unity.

The world-building in Royal Alien Mate is well-executed, with Mars depicted as a vibrant and complex world. The author provides enough detail to make the setting feel real and immersive, without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary exposition. The political dynamics and societal norms of the Martian culture are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and richness to the story.

In terms of pacing, the novel strikes a good balance between action and romance. The plot moves at a steady pace, with enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged. The presence of dark forces threatening Esmay adds an element of suspense, and the stakes are high enough to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Comparatively, Royal Alien Mate shares similarities with other works in the alien romance genre, such as Ruby Dixon's Ice Planet Barbarians series. Both authors excel at creating compelling alien worlds and developing complex relationships between their characters. However, Mercury's novel stands out for its focus on political intrigue and cultural integration, adding a unique twist to the familiar trope of human-alien romance.

Overall, Royal Alien Mate is a well-crafted and engaging novel that will appeal to fans of both romance and science fiction. Sue Mercury has created a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that are relatable and a plot that is both thrilling and heartwarming. Whether you're a long-time fan of the genre or a newcomer looking for an exciting read, this book is sure to captivate and delight.

In conclusion, Royal Alien Mate is a testament to Sue Mercury's skill as a storyteller. With its rich world-building, well-developed characters, and compelling narrative, it is a novel that will resonate with readers long after they've turned the last page. It's a story of love and redemption, of overcoming prejudice and finding common ground, and ultimately, of the power of the human (and alien) heart.