Stone Awakened

Gladiators of the Vagabond #6

by Robin O'Connor

An alien warrior in uniform should be sexy, but it’s nerve-wracking when I'm on an undercover rescue mission.

Agatha

I don’t think twice about diving headfirst into a dangerous rescue mission, especially when it's for the people who saved me. I'll kick in teeth, swap uniforms, go undercover as a gladiator trainer. Nothing can throw me. Except him

That man in the uniform has his eyes trained on me. And I'm caught off my guard. He’s a little older and he looks like a freaking gargoyle, but each look gives me shivers.

I need to rescue these kids, escape. But it’s hard to think of a plan, when those gray eyes are always watching. Not everything is what it seems, and when changes come one after the other, I don’t roll with the punches, I might just fall straight into his arms.

Sunder

There’s only one thing on my mind. Rescue my son. I’ve got a meticulous plan for that and I’m not about to let anyone mess that up.

The stern faced, straight-laced teacher is the last thing I want to deal with, but she’s between me and my son. I shouldn’t find her attractive, she’s on a Crimelord’s payroll. Yet I can’t keep my eyes of her.

She’s an unlikely ally I can work with, and beneath that stern exterior? She’s hiding a fire I shouldn’t want to tame, but I can’t seem to stay away.

Stone Awakened is a full-length standalone sci-fi romance featuring hot alien gladiators, a clever silver fox, a kind-hearted schoolteacher, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

Note: each book in the series can be read as a standalone, but for maximum enjoyment, it’s recommended that the series be read in order.

Genres: Romance, Aliens, Science Fiction Romance, Science Fiction

Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 2024

About the author

Robin O’Connor is an author who loves to write about strong, alien heroes and quirky heroines. She lives with her husband and son along with a couple hundred books (hers, definitely hers) and probably just as many computer parts (her husband’s). Her house therefore probably resembles something like a mad-scientist’s lab on any given day.

She’s always working on at least a half dozen projects at the same time but is never without time to answer questions, write up funny extras or hang out in her group online to speak with her readers.

Join her mailing list ➜ https://robinoconnor.ink/

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Reviews

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am absolutely loving this series and I can’t help falling in love with Sunder, especially as he took off to find his son he had been separated from. He arrived at the crimelords compound where he found Agatha in the training pits with his son and another small boy.

Agatha was in charge of the training for the young boys until they hit puberty, now she only to care for Amar who is three, he is her best friends boy who was taken for gladiator training and Jett who is around seven years old. Agatha has a plan to escape with both boys to protect them from the life that the crimelord has in for them. She didn’t take in to her plans meeting Jett’s father, Sunder and falling in love with him. There are lots of twists and turns in this story and lots of action but in the end they manage to escape and go on to have a happily ever after.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[kymagirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Agatha/Aggy (h) is undercover to rescue children being imprisoned and trained as gladiators. Sunder (H) is on a mission to rescue the son who was taken from him. He doesn’t know what to make of gladiator trainer Aggy, even as he finds himself attracted to her. Sunder and Aggy will have to work together if they’re going to rescues the kids and escape to the Vagabond. Hot and steamy action for Aggy and Sunder. Love how she’s the cure for his condition. There's lots of action and adventure throughout. Given the recurring characters and overarching arc, the books in the series are best read in series order to fully understand the characters, relationships, and collective backgrounds.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stone Awakened by Robin O’Connor
Gladiators of the Vagabond #6

Absolutely love this series and look forward eagerly for each book that comes out – once I begin to read, I can’t stop till the last word is read.

What I liked:
* Sunder: ex-gladiator, survivor, alien, father of Jett, on rescue mission to retrieve his son from captivity, finds his mate while on the mission
* Agatha ‘Aggy’ Munster: human, undercover to free captive child that was entrusted to her, finds Sunder intriguing
* Jett and Amar: two small alien boys, captives, being trained as products to be sold to gladiator stables
* The plot, pace, location, and writing
* That I felt part of the story, cared, and hoped for a happy ending for all
* Getting to see the rest of the characters from the series and find out how they are doing
* That the bad guys were thwarted
* The twists and turns and surprises that occured
* Hoping that Da’vi will have his turn to find his mate next
* Knowing that there is another book coming soon

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Realizing that though fiction, there is a lot of truth and reality in this series

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to the author for the ARC – this is my honest review.

5 Stars

[Tima · Rating 5 out of 5]

Agatha, the human female lead, has taken a job as trainer/carer for child gladiator slaves because her adopted nephew was taken and she needs to get him out. Sunder, the male gargoyle alien lead, has taken a job as guard/trainer for the same child slaves because his son is another of them. Neither can trust the other - they are both voluntarily employed by a crime lord! But the mutual attraction is real and they’re going to have to trust someone to succeed escaping with their children.

This story is dual POV, well written, and a great read. I empathised with Sunder’s health concerns and how he was ignoring all his issues to get his son out. I enjoyed Agatha’s determination to succeed even though she was a previously abducted human with little experience, skills, or funds in this part of the galaxy. I enjoyed Sunder’s dismay at his attraction to her and their cooperation towards their mutual goal. I enjoyed the integration of secondary characters and was amused by the banter and the relationship development, both romantic and secondary. Another great instalment in this series and I’m looking forward to the next one!

I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lisa Bing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another fab addition to the series and I loved how this adventure unfolded ;) The main characters were both undercover trying to rescue children and yeah, trust is a hard commodity in that situation. However, the chemistry between them was hot ;) Told in dual POV, this well written story, full of adventure, twists and steam, made for quite the page turning read.

[Hippo · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to like this more than I did. I think I just found Agatha too annoying for some reason and I didn’t feel the genuine connection between her and Sunder

[Karen Nastasio · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sadly this is book 6 in the series and I’ve loved every book and every character on how they came to meet the fated mates and this was a perfect end. Agatha is a human that’s going undercover to save her dead best friends child that was kidnapped along with others by a Crimelord who will train them to be gladiators and then sell them off but with her fake credentials she helps train them and is there caregiver until she can escape with them all. But there is a sexy older gargoyle man watching her and this has her body on high alert with desires for him but her first priority is the children. Gladiator Sunder got a job for the Crimlord so he could get close to his that was kidnapped and is being trained but Sunder has a plan to save him before it’s to late and all the others as well until a sexy human female shows up making him rethink his plans as she is with the children constantly. When they realize they are on the same side and both have a mission to save the children they must be careful so they don’t get caught. Do they succeed in there mission and get a HEA or do they get caught and lose everyone. There is so much more to this book than in this review there’s adventure, action, suspense, drama, kidnappings, chemistry, matebonds, crime lords are just a few things that make this book and the whole series a must read. Loved it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mc Chanster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love love lovelove this series! I get excited for each book that comes out and this was definitely no exception!

Stone Awakened focuses on Sunder, and his search for his son. After finally discovering where he is, Sunder finds his way into the compound with only one goal – rescue Jett. What he didn’t count on was Agatha, a human teacher who cared for Jett and fellow gladiator-child-in-training, Amar, as if they were her own. First impressions aren’t always accurate and soon, the two find themselves allies in the fight to free the kids, and fighting to keep their desires at bay.

Oh yeah, the sexual tension was high on this one. I loved it. I’ve had a soft spot for Sunder since the beginning, and I’m so happy he finally found his mate, and all the advantages that came along with it! After Kitan’s story, this may actually be my favorite. One thing I’ve appreciated all throughout these books is how each novel really could be a standalone, but there’s just that little hint of a connection that makes you want to read the rest of the series. Well done, Ms. O’ Connor!

Thank you Robin O’ Connor and StoryOrigins for my copy! I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the complete story of Sunder and Agatha. Agatha a schoolteacher in a camp for the gladiator/slaves. She went in trying to save the son of friends and met another captive little boy she’s determined to save. Only problem she didn’t plan an exit strategy. Sunder has been searching for his son ever since he and the crew earned their freedom and he has finally done so. What he didn't expect to find was his mate trapped in the compound as well. Now the have to work together to save the boys and themselves.
This is a great series. Each book is the story of one couple but reading in order will help you understand who’s in the supporting cast for each book. Steamy romance with lots of action and adventures. If you like aliens and fated mates this series is for you!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Georgie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally Sunder's story, I've loved Sunder from the first book in the series and how even though he was rough on the outside he was a softie on the inside. Aggy and Sunder's chemistry was off the charts and I loved the way they worked together to save the kids. There romance was soo cute, I feel like the brought the best out of each over. The little family formed was adorable and I loved the dynamic. I loved how Aggy was such a fiery and determined character and how well that fit with Sunder. I also really loved the plot of the book and how it was very unique from the other books, it was really wholesome and had me hooked from the start.
I definitely recommend this book either as a standalone or as part of the series. Especially if you love an intergalactic romance.

[Chrissy Loves Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ **4 Stars — Action, heart, and one seriously swoon-worthy stony hero!** 🪨💫

I *loved* Sunder and Agatha! These two couldn’t be more different, yet together they’re pure magic. Their mission to rescue the stolen children had my heart pounding, but it’s the way they bonded—both in battle and in heart—that really got me.

Sunder discovering his mate was such a satisfying moment, and I adore how this story keeps expanding the Vagabond crew. This “band of brothers by choice” continues to be one of my favorite parts of the series—each one so unique, loyal, and full of heart.

Robin O’Connor keeps hitting the sweet spot between adventure and romance. Another great read in a series that just keeps getting better! 🚀❤️

[Nina Diab · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Another wonderful addition to an already fantastic series! Great world building. I was captivated with the story from the start and couldn't put it down. Agatha was undercover overseeing to the training of abducted children who were being sold to become gladiators and rescue them. Sunder is the father of one of the children and managed to secure a job as a guard to rescue his son. I really liked that both Aggy and Sunder were there with the same goal in mind and had to regard each other as obstacles. The story was exciting and suspenseful. I loved both characters. An excellent read. 5 stars.

[Harleem · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series and impatiently await the next book!

This one is the story of Sunder, an older gladiator who was "past his prime" and stuck in his battle form, but who had found purpose by training and being a mentor to the other gladiators. He sets off on his own on a personal rescue mission when he finds a human woman, Agatha, in his path.

Told from the POV of both Sunder and Agatha, the storyline flows naturally and the characters, as well as the setting, come to life beautifully.

A well written PNR with some steam.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Zelda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mission accomplished! 🥰

Sunder finally found his son after months of searching and would do anything to get him back, even if it means him going undercover to do so. He then meets Aggy who is on a mission of her own. Aggy is a brave school teacher who also went undercover to rescue her best friends son. Sundar is wise, protective and will stop at nothing to protect whats his. These two were made for eachother.🥰🥰 Two very different beings on a mission to save stolen children being held in a gladiator training facility join forces in more ways than one. Exciting, adventureing, tense, and hot!🥵

Another sit on the edge of your seat book in the Gladiators of the Vagabond series.

[Carole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book #6 of the Gladiators of the Vagabond is another engaging adventure featuring Agatha and Sunder who are both involved in a rescue mission unbeknownst to one another.
With good writing and world building the story flows at a fast-pace and the energy level is kept high as the reader is pulled into a fascinating story with its expertly crafted characters and emotionally engaging storyline full of action, mate bonds and surprises. This was a great Sci-Fi Romance!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sentinelle23 · Rating 4 out of 5]

💚🌌🛸 A good surprise.

Agatha was afraid to discover that the two children in her care were no longer there.

She put her hand on the scanner on the warehouse door. The sliding door slid noiselessly. The bunks were empty...

-----------------

A good surprise for this science fiction romance story full of action and unexpected events.

I liked the background story, as well as the two main characters, Agatha and Sunder, whom I found very moving.
The presence of children is a plus. The story is gripping, it's hard to put the book down...

To discover for fans of the genre.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great read it’s Agatha and Sunders story. It’s the sixth in the series of the Gladiators of the Vagabond but can be read as a standalone. It’s an excellent entertaining sci fi fast paced engaging adventure full of action suspense danger abduction twists surprises mate bonds steam hot alpha male romance and love. It’s a fantastic story and having them both unbeknownst to one another be involved in the rescue mission was fun and had humorous moments. It’s a read I highly recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ilenia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another exquisite addition to the Vagabond saga.
Sunder was one of the most enigmatic characters of the entire Vagabond crew. This book sheds light to Sunder’s past and his motives.
The book is well paced and touching. The brotherhood between the ex-slave/gladiators is strong with this one as well.
Agatha is a very well shaped character and her motives match those of Sunder.
There is suspense as well as a lot of anticipation for the lovely ending. A read worthy of your time, will most definitely travel you to a story that takes your breath away.

[Shana W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robin O'Connor really knows how to tell a story.  This exciting tale has some lovely heartwarming moments, as well as suspense, romance and plenty of steam. The world building is terrific.  I love the detailed depictions of all the characters. Aggy, Sunder and the two children are very likeable and feel very real.  I read the book in no time, as I couldn't put it down. I'm so excited to read the next one in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Didi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 6 of Gladiators of the Vagabond
Another engaging read in the Gladiators of the Vagabond series. The author’s use of imaginative world building and wonderfully crafted characters holds the readers interest. Action, suspense, danger, love, steam, surprises, cute kids, humorous moments make for a great HEA read.
Can be read as a stand-alone but part of a interconnected series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this book! It’s well written, entertaining, exciting and has plot twists, undercover rescue missions, unlikely allies, steamy scenes and a happily ever after ending. The characters are wonderful and the storyline has great world building and lots of details which make for a better reading experience. I love this series and can’t wait for the next book to come out.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sunder infiltrated the crimelord’s stronghold to rescue his son. He didn’t expect to find him being cared for by Aggy, a human who Sunder can’t figure out. Aggy is there undercover to rescue Amar, her friend’s son. The characters are well suited and the storyline interesting. It was especially nice to see the people from the Vagabond again.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gleeful Goblin Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Book Will Sunder Your Heart.....And Put It Back Together

Gleeful Goblin Review: This is a sweet story of rescues and relationships that will break your heart and heal it in the same novel. Both MCs are protectors and trying to help the children in their charge for different reasons and without knowing the other is also doing the same. There are miscommunications and false starts made but once they get into sync the result is absolutely lovely. 5/5 Stars

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recommend reading this series from the beginning!

Stone Awakened is book 6 in the Gladiators of the Vagabond series. If you like alien romance with a fun storyline and exciting characters this is for you!

Human teacher Agatha is all impulsive actions, no planning and lots of heart. She is protecting her young charges, Jett and Amar, while training them to be gladiators.

Sunder is oh so serious, all planning, no distractions and all he wants is to rescue his son as he goes undercover to infiltrate a crime lord’s gladiator training facility. Sunder has been stuck in his horrifying “gargoyle” battle form for years but is he also battling his feelings for Agatha? Can he trust her? Can she trust him?

In Stone Awakened we find a new nefarious kingpin, some espionage capers and maybe a couple new unexpected allies. And of course our hunky gladiator brothers and feisty human sisters join the fray and as always they band together for each other!

I can’t wait for the next one… Doom Averted!

[Ming Ransdell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series!

Easy read with so many Alien details... Am really enjoying this series with all the varied cast! Light reading, with some twists and turns in every book. Am so impressed with your imagination, Robin! Since i prefer the HEA story, hard to find books that actually go into world and character building! Will definitely look for more books! Highly recommended!

[Jeannette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aggie and Sunder

This is a very good, well written, SciFi, Alien/Human romance. The characters are interesting and likable. There are two lovable children and a young soldier who needs some guidance. Aggie was a school teacher when she was abducted, then adopted into an alien family. She goes undercover to rescue their son. Sunder has gone undercover to rescue his son. Read how they are able to join forces and rescue the two boys.

[Sandra Sanches · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful!Since Ziame's story i'm totally hooked on this serie and this one doesn't disapoint.Sunder and Aggy's story will bring smiles and tears to your eyes.Defenitly a Must read!And Robin O'Connor is an author to follow!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sara Munoz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This intriguing book 6 in The Gladiators of the Vagabond Book Series has an entertaining and amazing alien romantic adventure, with a sexy silver fox/gargoyle hero. This was an exciting, thrilling, and interesting adventure. This story has Sunder finding his mate. which is great since he was deserving when she is perfect for him. This is a must read Alien Romance Story.

[Carmen · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Peace Form

I loved Sunder and Agatha! Two very different persons on a mission to save children stolen and held in a gladiator training facility join forces in more ways than one! Sunder finds his mate and we have another human on board the Vagabond! I love this band of brothers by choice.

[Killeena Savola · Rating 5 out of 5]

This alien is a wise man being through so much has taught him many things. When given the chance at finding what was taken from him will change everything. Aggy will lie her way to get to the one thing she has left in her new world. Not knowing who to trust and not knowing then end game can be very dangerous for them.