Trading in Exploration (Star Trader Independence Book 4)

For Rayne Nielson, freedom was within grasp, but when a derelict behemoth ship of unknown origin drifts into Federation space, everything she’s been fighting for is at risk. Rayne has worked tirelessly to pay off her crushing debt to the Intergalactic Trading Corporation, and the life she’s dreamed of is finally within reach. But the sudden arrival of a colossal, abandoned ship could tear it all apart. Her assistance is requested by the Gr’ardeth, the bearlike species who still see Rayne as a hero. The reward? A bonus too large to refuse. But exploring a massive ship like this is fraught with danger—traps, false leads, and the constant threat of getting lost or worse. And the ship holds more than just wreckage; something else is lurking inside. Rayne’s life and future might not be the only things on the line as she ventures to uncover the truth within. Leading the exploration of the monumental ship should have been just another job for an experienced mercenary captain and crew. But when Rayne’s safety is on the line, Valen Sitara finds himself fighting for more than just answers. Valen was prepared for the usual challenges of exploration, but the dilapidated ship holds far more danger than he anticipated. With parts of the ship open to space, every moment spent inside brings fresh dangers. Now, his duty goes beyond gathering intel; he's on a mission to protect everything he holds dear. His crew, his ship, and the woman he has come to love are all at risk. And the more he learns, the more he realizes that the entire four-species trading compact is also in danger. Rayne and Valen join forces to face the dangers of the ship, unaware of how the secrets inside will test them and everything they know. And just when they begin to discover answers, the unexpected involvement of the group of cadets on Valen’s ship turns everything upside down. Can they uncover the truth before the entire trading compact erupts in chaos? View Less