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The Mate Index: Vora #1
Bound by the Vori
When Kim Harris decides to volunteer for the Mate Index, it’s all about going big or go home. As a statuesque woman with a full figure, she wants a massive male—or better yet, males—who are capable of making all her dreams come true. With no immediate career prospects on the horizon and a savings rapidly dwindling, it seems like that the perfect time to take the jump—straight into the arms of two giant Vori, elite palace guards who will bind her to them with more than an “I do.”
When she gets a position as an instructor for the Matriarch’s offspring, it seems as if all of her dreams are finally about to come true. She has obtained a respected position and is discovering love with her mates, who are among the first among the elite guards to be granted access to the program. It is like a dream but one that becomes slowly tainted as she begins to notice that there is something awry at the palace. Is it just youthful hijinks or something more sinister? And when danger threatens can it be that someone desperately wants her out of the way?
If so, they will have to through Rykaal and Sijhord first! Larger than most male Vori, they have been permitted to have what always seemed untenable—a mate of their own—and they will shake the foundations of the palace itself before they allow her to come to harm. Nothing less can be accepted when, in all ways, they are bound.
When she gets a position as an instructor for the Matriarch’s offspring, it seems as if all of her dreams are finally about to come true. She has obtained a respected position and is discovering love with her mates, who are among the first among the elite guards to be granted access to the program. It is like a dream but one that becomes slowly tainted as she begins to notice that there is something awry at the palace. Is it just youthful hijinks or something more sinister? And when danger threatens can it be that someone desperately wants her out of the way?
If so, they will have to through Rykaal and Sijhord first! Larger than most male Vori, they have been permitted to have what always seemed untenable—a mate of their own—and they will shake the foundations of the palace itself before they allow her to come to harm. Nothing less can be accepted when, in all ways, they are bound.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2023
417 people are currently reading
572 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Sanders
86 books1,008 followersS.J. Sanders is a mom of two toddlers and one adult living in Anchorage, Alaska. She has a BA degree in History, but spends most of her free time painting, sculpting, doing odd bits of historical research, and writing. While she has more research orientated writing under another pen name, her passion is sci-fi and paranormal romance of which she is an avid reader. After years of tinkering with the idea, and making her own stories up in her head, S.J has began to seriously pursue writing as an author of Sci-fi Romance utilizing her interests in how cultures diversify and what they would look like on a extraterrestrial platform to humans interacting with them and finding love.
She can be found on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Author-SJ-Sa...
And follow her blog at https://sjsandersromance.wordpress.com
She can be found on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Author-SJ-Sa...
And follow her blog at https://sjsandersromance.wordpress.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
October 25, 2023
this was boring bc it was very instalove so idk i lost interest fast but also there was a conversation about age and they basically saying “idc about your age ima devour you” was a huge turn off for me
April 10, 2025
3.5 rounded up
Kim was pretty confident and definitely knew her own mind. She was not nervous about jumping straight to the fun stuff with her guys. Her guys were opposites in most ways, but rounded out their family unit well. There were parts of the story that dragged that kept me from giving it 4 stars.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: violence, gore, death, poisoning, allergic reaction, near fatal accident, pregnancy
Kim was pretty confident and definitely knew her own mind. She was not nervous about jumping straight to the fun stuff with her guys. Her guys were opposites in most ways, but rounded out their family unit well. There were parts of the story that dragged that kept me from giving it 4 stars.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: violence, gore, death, poisoning, allergic reaction, near fatal accident, pregnancy
March 29, 2024
Enjoyable
This was an easy and low angst read. It didn’t give me enough to be really invested in the characters but the plot was intriguing enough to keep my attention.
This was an easy and low angst read. It didn’t give me enough to be really invested in the characters but the plot was intriguing enough to keep my attention.
July 27, 2024
Let's talk about how much this book surprised me. Ive never really vibed with the alien romance or sci-fi vibe but hello??? This was so well done. The female black mc was pretty authentic and honestly being excited to see someone being able to braid her hair as soon as she lands on a new planet? Same.
I think my favorite part of this whole story was the dynamic between the three characters. They all had very different personalities that complimented each other so well. We have a perfect golden retriever mc, an older mc that's a little more serious and structured, and an educated driven black female main character that was trying to find her way in a new environment. The politics and the history of this whole race was so interesting. I really want to check out the other books to understand the background more. It seems to have alot more depth to it.
A few people seem to have problems with the instalove but it really didn't bother me because the whole plot from the beginning centered around this alien race having the opportunity to find love and pursue it when they usually didn't have the option. You could see the friendship between the two male mc's an the excitement they felt to build a home together and whoever the the women coming from earth would be. Honestly it was all so precious. You could feel their excitement.
Growing to and learning each other on a deeper level while also having a cultural difference was also interesting to see. Honestly I was just giddy reading this book and really enjoyed it. The sex scenes were great and although there were alot of them they were perfect. And there was way more going on besides the sex. So I can't wait to pick up a physical copy, definitely a new favorite.
I think my favorite part of this whole story was the dynamic between the three characters. They all had very different personalities that complimented each other so well. We have a perfect golden retriever mc, an older mc that's a little more serious and structured, and an educated driven black female main character that was trying to find her way in a new environment. The politics and the history of this whole race was so interesting. I really want to check out the other books to understand the background more. It seems to have alot more depth to it.
A few people seem to have problems with the instalove but it really didn't bother me because the whole plot from the beginning centered around this alien race having the opportunity to find love and pursue it when they usually didn't have the option. You could see the friendship between the two male mc's an the excitement they felt to build a home together and whoever the the women coming from earth would be. Honestly it was all so precious. You could feel their excitement.
Growing to and learning each other on a deeper level while also having a cultural difference was also interesting to see. Honestly I was just giddy reading this book and really enjoyed it. The sex scenes were great and although there were alot of them they were perfect. And there was way more going on besides the sex. So I can't wait to pick up a physical copy, definitely a new favorite.
September 2, 2023
I put down whatever I'm reading for an S.J. Sanders book.
So this was no exception.
Great addition to the Vora story. Great characters, great dynamics. It did feel shorter than a normal S.J.--but she covered that reason in the author's note.
Zero complaints. LOVE the return to the Mate Index. It's my second favorite series of all time, so I'm incredibly thrilled she's coming back to it/them.
Great read, but then again, I've always been a fan.
Highly recommend, happy reading!
So this was no exception.
Great addition to the Vora story. Great characters, great dynamics. It did feel shorter than a normal S.J.--but she covered that reason in the author's note.
Zero complaints. LOVE the return to the Mate Index. It's my second favorite series of all time, so I'm incredibly thrilled she's coming back to it/them.
Great read, but then again, I've always been a fan.
Highly recommend, happy reading!
August 31, 2023
An excellent, fast-moving romance!
Kim is a volunteer for the mate index program who wants a mate big enough to make her feel small. She is taller than most women, with a physique to match. I love her self assurance, inner strength, and decisive nature. She’s an excellent teacher as well. Rykaal and Sijhord are awesome! Two very different personalities, both very attractive. I think they are a perfect match for Kim. There is a rocky road ahead, though. You must read to see what happens to this delightful triad on their journey to happiness. An intriguing mystery along with an unusual love story!
Kim is a volunteer for the mate index program who wants a mate big enough to make her feel small. She is taller than most women, with a physique to match. I love her self assurance, inner strength, and decisive nature. She’s an excellent teacher as well. Rykaal and Sijhord are awesome! Two very different personalities, both very attractive. I think they are a perfect match for Kim. There is a rocky road ahead, though. You must read to see what happens to this delightful triad on their journey to happiness. An intriguing mystery along with an unusual love story!
September 4, 2023
Yessss! Back on Vora!
This was a totally different look into the world and culture of Vora. In the Vori's Mate and The Vori's Secret the setting was in the jungles of Vora, this book brings you into the capital city of the Western Continent and into the Matriarch's palace. You get to experience the changes to Vora after the madness and treatment that Dr. Vadal developed. The first two books didn't really dig into the darkness that Vora experienced, this one does, but does it in a way that you see the hope and change toward a better future.
This was a totally different look into the world and culture of Vora. In the Vori's Mate and The Vori's Secret the setting was in the jungles of Vora, this book brings you into the capital city of the Western Continent and into the Matriarch's palace. You get to experience the changes to Vora after the madness and treatment that Dr. Vadal developed. The first two books didn't really dig into the darkness that Vora experienced, this one does, but does it in a way that you see the hope and change toward a better future.
September 1, 2023
love this series
Out of all S.J Sanders series this one of my favorite. I just love this series and this story didn’t disappoint from the spicy moments and to the actions moments. I have so enjoyed this book.
Out of all S.J Sanders series this one of my favorite. I just love this series and this story didn’t disappoint from the spicy moments and to the actions moments. I have so enjoyed this book.
March 1, 2024
I loved that we got a POC main lead in a monster romance. And not only a POC lead, but a lead in her 30s.
But the insta love for me was difficult. I can handle it to an extent lol but ya know. Also why was this 200 page novella dragging so badly in the middle? Lol
But the insta love for me was difficult. I can handle it to an extent lol but ya know. Also why was this 200 page novella dragging so badly in the middle? Lol
October 1, 2023
While adore Sanders books this one left me feeling strangely unsatisfied. The Mate Index is a lengthly series and while I don't remember most of the stories and this book coming out years afters the initial Vora story I wasn't terribly confused.
Kim went into her match eyes wide open and knowing what to expect so the almost insta-love that developed wasn't a surprise or a turn off. It was actually refreshing that I didn't have to sit through the couple sorting out differences and miscommunications. The main couple was cute and complimented each other.
However, the 'villian' of the story gained my sympathy instead of my righteous fury. All through the book it was emphasised that the males bond deeply with their mate and that the 'throwbacks' are undesirabl, shunned, and not mate material (as they are not controllable and should not be mated), in their history and present day. Though their matriarch has throwbacks as her mates.
Inkol, her second mate (who I assumed has been with her for years, seeing as she has ten), though mated was deemed unsuitable to breed with. His actions towards Kim though wrong was understandable. Shunned by his own mate but that same mate made it possible for his 'type' to mate and breed while he can't.
In the Sanders established a very human solution to a very alien problem. Counselling while good does not help the problem if females want the throwbacks as mates because of their aggression and protectiveness but not to breed. My understanding was the bond between mates equated to wanting offspring which Inkol didn't get. Not even getting the chance to TRY. Inkol death resulted in the blindness and backward thinking of his own mate and her forward thinking for others, which I found sad.
Kim went into her match eyes wide open and knowing what to expect so the almost insta-love that developed wasn't a surprise or a turn off. It was actually refreshing that I didn't have to sit through the couple sorting out differences and miscommunications. The main couple was cute and complimented each other.
However, the 'villian' of the story gained my sympathy instead of my righteous fury. All through the book it was emphasised that the males bond deeply with their mate and that the 'throwbacks' are undesirabl, shunned, and not mate material (as they are not controllable and should not be mated), in their history and present day. Though their matriarch has throwbacks as her mates.
Inkol, her second mate (who I assumed has been with her for years, seeing as she has ten), though mated was deemed unsuitable to breed with. His actions towards Kim though wrong was understandable. Shunned by his own mate but that same mate made it possible for his 'type' to mate and breed while he can't.
In the Sanders established a very human solution to a very alien problem. Counselling while good does not help the problem if females want the throwbacks as mates because of their aggression and protectiveness but not to breed. My understanding was the bond between mates equated to wanting offspring which Inkol didn't get. Not even getting the chance to TRY. Inkol death resulted in the blindness and backward thinking of his own mate and her forward thinking for others, which I found sad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2023
Vori’s might be my new obsession
This was such an interesting read. Sweet.
I enjoyed the story and I really like SJ Sanders’ writing, it’s refreshing.
This world was new to me and I really enjoyed the bit of “who done it” that was added. The spice and steam was really good as well.
This was such an interesting read. Sweet.
I enjoyed the story and I really like SJ Sanders’ writing, it’s refreshing.
This world was new to me and I really enjoyed the bit of “who done it” that was added. The spice and steam was really good as well.
December 12, 2023
Ok, I'll be honest, I DNF'd at like Chapter 8. Which is really early and kinda sad for me.
I really like the premise of this book! It's the first I've read of S.J.'s work, and I love that there's soooo much to back read whenever I get the chance to.
However...
The reason for the 2 stars is purely due to the following:
1. I couldn't actually visualize the Vori well. That is, I understood the general bits, but it was hard to just envision them doing anything? If that made any sense? I just struggled hard during the sex scenes to 'see' them and the positions everyone was in. (well one scene I guess.).
2. It seems like the one I read might have some leftover typos in it. Because it clearly seems like this was switched from First POV to Third for Kim. (there's some 'me' and 'us' there. I was a little confused.) (But this is actually VERY minor for me)
3. I honestly couldn't get into it too much. I think this is probably one of those things where it would've made way more sense if I started with like the very first book of the whole Mate Index jazz or something. I love the concept but I got kind of sucked out by the info given and nothing explained too much.
Character wise:
I don't mind the so-called Insta-love thing. In fact, I kinda prefer it because the will/won't they thing can get old fast and I'm more interested in how they maintain it.
That said, I'd honestly call this more of an instant-attraction than love, but that's just me.
I kinda like the characters. I like the fact that Kim is hella fine with everything is going on and she actually reads what's given to her. Too many times I read alien stories and it drags because the heroine is a very uneducated and unwilling to even try to see what's up with this other culture. So that was deeply refreshing to see someone at least somewhat informed and pretty happy about this.
The two male leads are... Fine. I guess. (also, I don't get Kim's issue with the younger male. He's an adult. She's an adult and not even that much older and they don't even have remotely the same life experiences to even qualify that. He's an Alien, hun, pls.)
I just didn't really feel one way or another about them. Whereas I got a lot of personality from Kim, they're just.. kinda there and horny. very horny. I don't blame them but like..maybe a bit more about their likes outside of that would be nice? Or maybe I should've read more.
Either way, I just really couldn't get into it after the first time and I felt my attention wane. However, the brief bit I read did feel like it was a world that would exist and some of the structure is pretty neat.
I just had trouble envisioning it.
I really like the premise of this book! It's the first I've read of S.J.'s work, and I love that there's soooo much to back read whenever I get the chance to.
However...
The reason for the 2 stars is purely due to the following:
1. I couldn't actually visualize the Vori well. That is, I understood the general bits, but it was hard to just envision them doing anything? If that made any sense? I just struggled hard during the sex scenes to 'see' them and the positions everyone was in. (well one scene I guess.).
2. It seems like the one I read might have some leftover typos in it. Because it clearly seems like this was switched from First POV to Third for Kim. (there's some 'me' and 'us' there. I was a little confused.) (But this is actually VERY minor for me)
3. I honestly couldn't get into it too much. I think this is probably one of those things where it would've made way more sense if I started with like the very first book of the whole Mate Index jazz or something. I love the concept but I got kind of sucked out by the info given and nothing explained too much.
Character wise:
I don't mind the so-called Insta-love thing. In fact, I kinda prefer it because the will/won't they thing can get old fast and I'm more interested in how they maintain it.
That said, I'd honestly call this more of an instant-attraction than love, but that's just me.
I kinda like the characters. I like the fact that Kim is hella fine with everything is going on and she actually reads what's given to her. Too many times I read alien stories and it drags because the heroine is a very uneducated and unwilling to even try to see what's up with this other culture. So that was deeply refreshing to see someone at least somewhat informed and pretty happy about this.
The two male leads are... Fine. I guess. (also, I don't get Kim's issue with the younger male. He's an adult. She's an adult and not even that much older and they don't even have remotely the same life experiences to even qualify that. He's an Alien, hun, pls.)
I just didn't really feel one way or another about them. Whereas I got a lot of personality from Kim, they're just.. kinda there and horny. very horny. I don't blame them but like..maybe a bit more about their likes outside of that would be nice? Or maybe I should've read more.
Either way, I just really couldn't get into it after the first time and I felt my attention wane. However, the brief bit I read did feel like it was a world that would exist and some of the structure is pretty neat.
I just had trouble envisioning it.
January 14, 2025
Alright y’all, SJ Sanders did her thing with Bound by the Vori. This book had me laughing, swooning, and feeling all the emotions from start to finish. The world-building was so vivid, I felt like I was right there with them. And the characters? Unforgettable.
First off, let’s talk about these relationships. Sijhord and Rykaal’s friendship? That’s the kind of brotherhood we love to see. The way Rykaal hyped up Sijhord when he was doubting himself? My heart! Those little moments of care and connection made these characters feel so real. And Vora and Rykaal? Whew, chile, their romance had me kicking my feet and grinning like a fool. It was giving all the love, all the spice, and all the feels.
Now, the mystery and suspense? Chef’s kiss. I was side-eyeing Inkol from the jump, and I knew he was shady. I was ready to put $5 on him being up to no good, and guess what? I was right! The whole situation with Zana and the Flower Festival had me on edge. And the commentary on traditions? It was great. It’s so true—we gotta question why we do things, especially when times change.
The little moments of chaos in the mystery gave the story so much life. The balance between the laugh-out-loud scenes and those vulnerable moments was perfect.
Favorite Highlights:
Sijhord’s sweet and vulnerable energy. Watching him try not to panic? My heart broke for him.
Rykaal being the ultimate supportive bestie and romantic partner. His gestures had me melting.
The twists and turns around the Flower Festival. Suspense on point.
The jaw-dropping moments when true motives were revealed.
Final Thoughts:
This book is straight-up gold. SJ Sanders knows how to create characters you fall in love with and stories you can’t put down. The romance, the humor, the mystery—it all came together beautifully. If you love sci-fi romance that hits on every level, you need to read this.
PERFECT FOR: Black women who want to feel seen, readers who love swoony romance, and anyone craving a sci-fi story with heart and heat.
SJ Sanders, girl, you understood the assignment—thank you for blessing us with this masterpiece!
First off, let’s talk about these relationships. Sijhord and Rykaal’s friendship? That’s the kind of brotherhood we love to see. The way Rykaal hyped up Sijhord when he was doubting himself? My heart! Those little moments of care and connection made these characters feel so real. And Vora and Rykaal? Whew, chile, their romance had me kicking my feet and grinning like a fool. It was giving all the love, all the spice, and all the feels.
Now, the mystery and suspense? Chef’s kiss. I was side-eyeing Inkol from the jump, and I knew he was shady. I was ready to put $5 on him being up to no good, and guess what? I was right! The whole situation with Zana and the Flower Festival had me on edge. And the commentary on traditions? It was great. It’s so true—we gotta question why we do things, especially when times change.
The little moments of chaos in the mystery gave the story so much life. The balance between the laugh-out-loud scenes and those vulnerable moments was perfect.
Favorite Highlights:
Sijhord’s sweet and vulnerable energy. Watching him try not to panic? My heart broke for him.
Rykaal being the ultimate supportive bestie and romantic partner. His gestures had me melting.
The twists and turns around the Flower Festival. Suspense on point.
The jaw-dropping moments when true motives were revealed.
Final Thoughts:
This book is straight-up gold. SJ Sanders knows how to create characters you fall in love with and stories you can’t put down. The romance, the humor, the mystery—it all came together beautifully. If you love sci-fi romance that hits on every level, you need to read this.
PERFECT FOR: Black women who want to feel seen, readers who love swoony romance, and anyone craving a sci-fi story with heart and heat.
SJ Sanders, girl, you understood the assignment—thank you for blessing us with this masterpiece!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2024
2.8/5
It was dumb. Lame plot that dragged in places and jumped ahead in others and characters that seemed interesting in the beginning but kind of blended together by the midpoint. Lots of syntax and grammatical errors that made sentences hard to read and understand. And it was predictable and boring. Easy to guess who the bad guy was. Plus in order to add mystery and intrigue the author ended up just making her characters dumb.
This story was painfully dumb.
I was following for a while but why the hell didn’t she tell her mates she loved them? And was the FUCK didn’t she tell them she was pregnant when she found out?
Also. Why the fuck did they all think the princess was the poisoner? They did no evidence gathering nor did they even ask her. They (including the royal guards and her mother and fathers) all just assumed she was guilty. That’s fucking DUMB.
And when she tells Kim she didn’t do it and had to motive, Kim is like “I guess she is too embarrassed to admit it” and doesn’t consider any other possibility. Neither do her mates. Morons.
Then like 1 chapter later she is convinced the princess could never do it? What?
There was a lot of double peen size queen alien smut. So if you want that then go for it but I ended up skipping it was so samey.
And then it just ended super abruptly at the end. The pacing was so off.
Alien snake men. MFM. Dual peen. DVP. DAP. DP. Anal. Virgin MCs? Non virgin FMC. 34 yo FMC. MMC 43 and 25. Breeding. Pregnancy. Epilogue 5mo later still pregnant. No cheating. No breakup. No OMD/OWD.
It was dumb. Lame plot that dragged in places and jumped ahead in others and characters that seemed interesting in the beginning but kind of blended together by the midpoint. Lots of syntax and grammatical errors that made sentences hard to read and understand. And it was predictable and boring. Easy to guess who the bad guy was. Plus in order to add mystery and intrigue the author ended up just making her characters dumb.
This story was painfully dumb.
I was following for a while but why the hell didn’t she tell her mates she loved them? And was the FUCK didn’t she tell them she was pregnant when she found out?
Also. Why the fuck did they all think the princess was the poisoner? They did no evidence gathering nor did they even ask her. They (including the royal guards and her mother and fathers) all just assumed she was guilty. That’s fucking DUMB.
And when she tells Kim she didn’t do it and had to motive, Kim is like “I guess she is too embarrassed to admit it” and doesn’t consider any other possibility. Neither do her mates. Morons.
Then like 1 chapter later she is convinced the princess could never do it? What?
There was a lot of double peen size queen alien smut. So if you want that then go for it but I ended up skipping it was so samey.
And then it just ended super abruptly at the end. The pacing was so off.
Alien snake men. MFM. Dual peen. DVP. DAP. DP. Anal. Virgin MCs? Non virgin FMC. 34 yo FMC. MMC 43 and 25. Breeding. Pregnancy. Epilogue 5mo later still pregnant. No cheating. No breakup. No OMD/OWD.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2023
4&1\2 terrific🌟's for Bound by the Vori💖
This is the first in a spin off Mate Index series all about the Vori! In this first book Kim a smart gorgeous teacher has had enough of teaching on earth and just wants a fresh start with mates that not only want her but see her for the wonderful woman she is. She researches long and hard and chooses Vora and the Naga like beings as her match. When she's meets her mates Rykaal, and Sijhord she knows she's made the right choice. Vora has gone through many changes and some old traditions are giving way to new ones to help improve lives. Some are excited and others have been traumatized by the past and can't see a future. Rykaal, and Sijhord are two of the palace guards who have been given the opportunity to have a mate one before rules and traditions changed would never have been allowed. When they meet Kim they are sure all their hopes and dreams of having a loving, smart beautiful mate have come true. But others are not so happy and resent human women coming to Vora. Is their new love in danger!? Can they find out who is willing to go to any lengths to see the human females gone!? You need too read and fins out you won't be disappointed! Its a great start and I can't wait to see what happens next in this new spin off series. Totally recommend!💖🌟🔥🔥🌟💖💖🌟🔥🔥🌟💖
This is the first in a spin off Mate Index series all about the Vori! In this first book Kim a smart gorgeous teacher has had enough of teaching on earth and just wants a fresh start with mates that not only want her but see her for the wonderful woman she is. She researches long and hard and chooses Vora and the Naga like beings as her match. When she's meets her mates Rykaal, and Sijhord she knows she's made the right choice. Vora has gone through many changes and some old traditions are giving way to new ones to help improve lives. Some are excited and others have been traumatized by the past and can't see a future. Rykaal, and Sijhord are two of the palace guards who have been given the opportunity to have a mate one before rules and traditions changed would never have been allowed. When they meet Kim they are sure all their hopes and dreams of having a loving, smart beautiful mate have come true. But others are not so happy and resent human women coming to Vora. Is their new love in danger!? Can they find out who is willing to go to any lengths to see the human females gone!? You need too read and fins out you won't be disappointed! Its a great start and I can't wait to see what happens next in this new spin off series. Totally recommend!💖🌟🔥🔥🌟💖💖🌟🔥🔥🌟💖
October 16, 2023
More Attention to Detail is Needed
*****Spoilers*****
Rykaal and Sijhord are Kim's mates. She from earth and traveled to their world for them. The book is mostly the three connecting and someone trying to kill Kim. It wasn't terrible, more a 2.5 but so much is missing I can't elevate it to a 3. Alien stories are difficult in general I think and this author missed the mark I think on the alien part and the details. More detail is seriously needed. More descriptors, better descriptions, and a full lead from start to finish as it relates to the storytelling would improve it. World building seems to be there but isn't conveyed well in the book. Kim is from earth and excited about her mates which is wonderful because she keeps that excitement all of the time. I wasn't able to visualize Rykaal and Sijhord because their descriptions are vague. There was too much earth speak coming from the aliens. The culture was too easy to change. The plot to kill Kim didn't make sense. Neither Kim nor her mates were on high enough alert after her life was threatened more than once. I'll stop there and just say that the story could be much improved with more attention to details and descriptions.
*****Spoilers*****
Rykaal and Sijhord are Kim's mates. She from earth and traveled to their world for them. The book is mostly the three connecting and someone trying to kill Kim. It wasn't terrible, more a 2.5 but so much is missing I can't elevate it to a 3. Alien stories are difficult in general I think and this author missed the mark I think on the alien part and the details. More detail is seriously needed. More descriptors, better descriptions, and a full lead from start to finish as it relates to the storytelling would improve it. World building seems to be there but isn't conveyed well in the book. Kim is from earth and excited about her mates which is wonderful because she keeps that excitement all of the time. I wasn't able to visualize Rykaal and Sijhord because their descriptions are vague. There was too much earth speak coming from the aliens. The culture was too easy to change. The plot to kill Kim didn't make sense. Neither Kim nor her mates were on high enough alert after her life was threatened more than once. I'll stop there and just say that the story could be much improved with more attention to details and descriptions.
December 22, 2023
cute story but wanted more world building
I thought it was a super cute story. I’ve rarely read alien romance in which the FMC boldly volunteers to become a mate. They’re usually kidnapped or saved in some manner. Kim is very forward and determined to live her life out loud. The author could’ve done a better job of world building. Vori was somewhat anlready immersed into human culture although that wasn’t what was portrayed in the book. I don’t understand why Kim didn’t tell the guys her condition. The reasoning behind the assassination attempts wasn’t dumb but whomp whomp. It brought attention to the change needed in the world.
Some gramatical errors. The author switched between first and third person here and there. The timeline was also incorrect. In chapter 15, several lunar cycles had passed but in chapter 16, it said it had only been one lunar cycle.
I thought it was a super cute story. I’ve rarely read alien romance in which the FMC boldly volunteers to become a mate. They’re usually kidnapped or saved in some manner. Kim is very forward and determined to live her life out loud. The author could’ve done a better job of world building. Vori was somewhat anlready immersed into human culture although that wasn’t what was portrayed in the book. I don’t understand why Kim didn’t tell the guys her condition. The reasoning behind the assassination attempts wasn’t dumb but whomp whomp. It brought attention to the change needed in the world.
Some gramatical errors. The author switched between first and third person here and there. The timeline was also incorrect. In chapter 15, several lunar cycles had passed but in chapter 16, it said it had only been one lunar cycle.
July 23, 2024
• I do not like insta love. But, I didn’t mind it here, it was more like attraction at first sight. & there was constant talk of wanting to deepen the connection/fall in love. Besides all this, the author basically warns you that this species mates for life. So it stands to reason that, for the most part, the mail order bride situation is going to have an instant component to it.
• The one thing I wish we could’ve had was a drawing. I know, it sounds very graphic novel of me. Hear me out: there were new anatomy that were being introduced in scenes where it was already a lot going on. A labeled diagram at the beginning of the novel would have gone along way in helping me to picture them better. Plus I’ve never met a Vori.. have you? Personally, I think all alien books should show any and all species mentioned in the book.
• The one thing I wish we could’ve had was a drawing. I know, it sounds very graphic novel of me. Hear me out: there were new anatomy that were being introduced in scenes where it was already a lot going on. A labeled diagram at the beginning of the novel would have gone along way in helping me to picture them better. Plus I’ve never met a Vori.. have you? Personally, I think all alien books should show any and all species mentioned in the book.
January 1, 2024
A wonderful read, but a few things to mention...
I loved the story, but sometimes hard to follow with the grammatical errors and typing (not spelling) errors.
It's not bad to the point where I didn't enjoy it, it was just a bit more taxing to have to figure out what the author was trying to convey.
Anyway, aside from that, I would have plucked my eye out and offered it on a silver platter for a post-nestlings epilogue and an update on Shaagra. Mildly disappointed that there wasn't more detail on the royal mother-daughter relationship building, and where the trio ended up was nice but a complete 180 from the original line of their values. I'm getting too deep, but hey, it was a great story, of course I'm in too deep.
I loved the story, but sometimes hard to follow with the grammatical errors and typing (not spelling) errors.
It's not bad to the point where I didn't enjoy it, it was just a bit more taxing to have to figure out what the author was trying to convey.
Anyway, aside from that, I would have plucked my eye out and offered it on a silver platter for a post-nestlings epilogue and an update on Shaagra. Mildly disappointed that there wasn't more detail on the royal mother-daughter relationship building, and where the trio ended up was nice but a complete 180 from the original line of their values. I'm getting too deep, but hey, it was a great story, of course I'm in too deep.
September 19, 2023
Love me some Naga men
I adore the mate index and I’m quite pleased that there’s gonna be a spin off series on Vori alone. Sometime you just need some delicious snake men in your life and this series delivers.
This was a great story you’ve got your snake men, you’ve got a bipoc fmc with a body type that isn’t the ‘standard’ which is so great to see and you’ve got a bit of a mystery so it actually had a storyline. I loved the fmc she knew what she wanted and went for it. And her two males were adorable with her.
Looking forward to more Vori stories!
I adore the mate index and I’m quite pleased that there’s gonna be a spin off series on Vori alone. Sometime you just need some delicious snake men in your life and this series delivers.
This was a great story you’ve got your snake men, you’ve got a bipoc fmc with a body type that isn’t the ‘standard’ which is so great to see and you’ve got a bit of a mystery so it actually had a storyline. I loved the fmc she knew what she wanted and went for it. And her two males were adorable with her.
Looking forward to more Vori stories!
September 22, 2023
I love these books!
I want you to do just the Vori's series please these books are so good! I want more of them I want to know everything about their world and their beings and how they know about humans and who was the first humans on their planet and can the men mate with their females, I am so ready to dive in and get lost in these stories that are so well written that I feel like I am right there in the story. I am going to read VORI secret next. I am happy to be a new fan of S.J. Sanders. As always Happy reading😍😘
I want you to do just the Vori's series please these books are so good! I want more of them I want to know everything about their world and their beings and how they know about humans and who was the first humans on their planet and can the men mate with their females, I am so ready to dive in and get lost in these stories that are so well written that I feel like I am right there in the story. I am going to read VORI secret next. I am happy to be a new fan of S.J. Sanders. As always Happy reading😍😘
September 29, 2023
I loved it😍
I loved Kim, and her take life by the horns, attitude. She decided to take charge of her own happiness, and just go for it. Despite her family of nay sayers, she was suddenly wrapped up in big muscles, Tails, and 4 C--ks. She told them, your all for me, and was she took, and thoroughly received. Two big growly, protective, and passionate mates. I was cheering for her through this story. I am new to this series, so now I want to go back, and read about Reggie, and her males. Great story telling!😁😊
I loved Kim, and her take life by the horns, attitude. She decided to take charge of her own happiness, and just go for it. Despite her family of nay sayers, she was suddenly wrapped up in big muscles, Tails, and 4 C--ks. She told them, your all for me, and was she took, and thoroughly received. Two big growly, protective, and passionate mates. I was cheering for her through this story. I am new to this series, so now I want to go back, and read about Reggie, and her males. Great story telling!😁😊
October 5, 2023
Absolutely loved
SJ Sanders is quickly becoming a tried and true favorite of mine. Her world building is incredible, and Bound by the Vori is no different. I loved the leading lady Kim, who is a tall, confident, plus size woman of color. While she may experience a moment of self doubt regarding her body it is not a super motivating factor in the book. The naga-like male main characters fall hard and fast. This is a high spice, relatively low angsty read that I would recommend for fans of sci-fi/ alien romances
SJ Sanders is quickly becoming a tried and true favorite of mine. Her world building is incredible, and Bound by the Vori is no different. I loved the leading lady Kim, who is a tall, confident, plus size woman of color. While she may experience a moment of self doubt regarding her body it is not a super motivating factor in the book. The naga-like male main characters fall hard and fast. This is a high spice, relatively low angsty read that I would recommend for fans of sci-fi/ alien romances
December 15, 2023
I liked the fact that the female lead was a woman of color but I wasn't sure why the author gave her two love interest as it seems one was added just as a extra. The vori who are called Naga in other fantasy works were kind of interesting although I was a little put off by how fast they became attached with their females simply by sexing them but the story was a bit ho-hum for me. You could easily tell where the story was going and it was a little boring the ending was especially a put down. I gave three stars because I like Naga.
September 3, 2023
Not as engrossing as your other books.
I always buy your books automatically I was disappointed in this one because there wasn't a whole lot of character building and we didn't even get to meet the babies I love your books because there's such a great family story and I like sex as much as anybody but I would have liked a little bit more about the people like your other mate books 😭😭
I always buy your books automatically I was disappointed in this one because there wasn't a whole lot of character building and we didn't even get to meet the babies I love your books because there's such a great family story and I like sex as much as anybody but I would have liked a little bit more about the people like your other mate books 😭😭
September 10, 2023
My first SJ Sanders did not disappoint
Enjoyed this RH Alien Romance with two cooperative MMC characters, though I feel like I should have started a bit earlier in the series as there’s some small nuances about Vori that had me rereading some sections. The heat was high and I was surprised that the passion escalated so quickly. The plot was a bit twisty but I appreciated it, and it kept me engaged past the spicy parts. I’ll be reading the rest of them too
Enjoyed this RH Alien Romance with two cooperative MMC characters, though I feel like I should have started a bit earlier in the series as there’s some small nuances about Vori that had me rereading some sections. The heat was high and I was surprised that the passion escalated so quickly. The plot was a bit twisty but I appreciated it, and it kept me engaged past the spicy parts. I’ll be reading the rest of them too
October 24, 2023
If there’s one thing I really appreciate in a monster/alien romance it’s when the h isn’t resistant and is quick to accept this new world and culture she’s thrust into. It was probably the case in this book bc it was Kim’s choice to go to Vora, but still I liked that she was immediately down with her mates and had no qualms when it came to adjusting to life there.
Overall this was fun with a bit of drama that was outside of Kim and her mates
Overall this was fun with a bit of drama that was outside of Kim and her mates
February 12, 2024
pretty cute.
Pretty cute. At times I found the writing a bit confusing. Mostly with the spicy scenes cuz I’m not sure I understood the anatomy of the Vori or their mating practices. Also pretty predictable and low stakes. But it is a romance. Still cute though and I loved how there was no coyness between the main characters. They knew what was up and went for it. Nice easy read.
Pretty cute. At times I found the writing a bit confusing. Mostly with the spicy scenes cuz I’m not sure I understood the anatomy of the Vori or their mating practices. Also pretty predictable and low stakes. But it is a romance. Still cute though and I loved how there was no coyness between the main characters. They knew what was up and went for it. Nice easy read.
September 13, 2023
Bound by the Vori
Awesome read!!! Loved Kim and her mates. Wonderful character development and the supporting characters were very well thought out. The world building was incredible and so interesting. I love the Mate Index series. I would highly recommend this book and this series. It has come a long way from the beginning and is a truly enjoyable series.
Awesome read!!! Loved Kim and her mates. Wonderful character development and the supporting characters were very well thought out. The world building was incredible and so interesting. I love the Mate Index series. I would highly recommend this book and this series. It has come a long way from the beginning and is a truly enjoyable series.
September 16, 2023
Good read
It started slow but then you get into the story there's a little bit of interaction with the characters A lot on the intimate side and then towards the end it was just like 1 bad Character It would have been nice if you would have finished the ending with the birth of the kids and how many she had and then being pregnant again but that didn't happen
It started slow but then you get into the story there's a little bit of interaction with the characters A lot on the intimate side and then towards the end it was just like 1 bad Character It would have been nice if you would have finished the ending with the birth of the kids and how many she had and then being pregnant again but that didn't happen
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