Step aboard the Albatross and blast into the starry universe of the Mandrake Company series, where sexy mercenaries, clever heroines, and pulse-pounding space adventures collide with steamy romance! Written by Ruby Lionsdrake, the pen name of prolific author Lindsay Buroker, this science fiction romance saga launched in 2014 and has hooked fans with its Firefly-inspired grit and swoon-worthy love stories.
Imagine a galaxy ruled by an oppressive conglomerate, where only the bold—like the rugged crew of the Mandrake Company—dare to carve their own destinies. With witty banter, thrilling action, and just the right amount of spice, this series is a must-read for anyone craving a blend of space opera and heartfelt connection.
How Mandrake Company Began
Ruby Lionsdrake, aka Lindsay Buroker, is no stranger to adventure. Before becoming a full-time author, she juggled careers as a soldier, lifeguard, and network administrator, all while dreaming of storytelling. In 2009, she committed to writing novels, and by 2014, she unleashed Mandrake Company under her Lionsdrake pseudonym to explore spicier, romance-driven sci-fi. Inspired by classics like Firefly and the works of Linnea Sinclair, Buroker crafted a universe where love blooms amid intergalactic chaos, drawing on her knack for witty dialogue and intricate world-building.
The Heart of Mandrake Company
The series kicks off with Mercenary Instinct (2014), where Captain Viktor Mandrake captures entrepreneur Ankari Markovich for a bounty, only to find she’s no criminal. As they dodge bounty hunters and unravel conspiracies, sparks fly in a jungle-charged adventure. Trial and Temptation follows pilot Jamie Flipkins and her romance with a stoic officer, blending high-stakes missions with heartfelt moments. The Assassin’s Salvation dives into an assassin’s redemption through love, while The Ruins of Karzelek pairs a treasure hunter with a mercenary in a trap-filled quest.
Set in a galaxy of oppressive regimes and untamed planets, Mandrake Company blends fast-paced action with themes of loyalty, freedom, and found family. Each book spotlights a new couple, weaving romance with suspense and humor. Fans praise Buroker’s vivid characters—like the stoic yet lovable Viktor—and her ability to balance steamy scenes with robust plots, making every story feel like a standalone adventure within a cohesive universe.
Why Mandrake Company Resonates
Mandrake Company has carved a niche in sci-fi romance, earning comparisons to Firefly for its ragtag crew and Star Wars for its epic scope. Readers on Goodreads and Amazon rave about its binge-worthy mix of action, humor, and romance, with many calling it a top-tier series alongside Buroker’s Star Guardians. Its lasting appeal lies in its relatable characters—flawed, funny, and fiercely loyal—who navigate love and danger in a richly imagined galaxy.
The series’ impact extends to its fans, who clamor for more stories about side characters like Striker and Hazel, despite its “complete” status. By blending accessible sci-fi with emotional depth, Mandrake Company has inspired readers to explore Buroker’s wider catalog, cementing her as a beloved voice in the genre.
- Publication Years: 2014–2017
- Number of Books: 7 novels, 1 novella
- Genres: Science fiction, romance, space opera
Ready to join the Mandrake Company’s wild ride? Grab Mercenary Instinct and dive into a galaxy where love conquers all—even in the heat of battle!