Sakev by Elin Wyn

Dr. Evangeline Parr lost it all when the Xathi attacked Fraga. When she’s asked to establish a clinic in the devastated town of Einhiv, she jumps at the chance to help.
The only problem? A smart ass, joking Skotan warrior. He’s a terrible patient. Impossible. Refuses to take anything seriously.
Until they’re caught in an explosive situation, and a new side of him emerges.
Protective. Efficient.
And very intriguing.
Sakev joined the Skotan fleet after an… unusual career. The ghosts of his past have mostly subsided against the ongoing struggle to keep up with the Xathi attacks and their new hybrid weapons.
Mostly.
He never expected a tiny human female to break through his carefully constructed facade.
But his past pales against the mystery of the war they’re fighting. And when the enemy changes yet again, keeping Evie safe becomes more than just another mission.