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Variant #7

Respite

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About This Book



Things don’t play out in Alliance quite the way they do in the rest of the world. That’s because most of the people in Alliance are not human — they’re Variant. A species of elite soldier forcibly created by the government in an effort to create the perfect warrior, the perfect weapon. Finally liberated, the Variant people live in their own community — Alliance — where they are free to be themselves. Which means their instincts are free to rule. Which instincts? Well, they’re predators, so it could be anything.



Law, who’s the face of the Variant, the liaison between all governmental agencies and the Variant people as a whole, is the epitome of reason, calm, control, and dependability. Except for the indisputable manipulation he’s gone to in order to bring his mate to Alliance and keep her there. It’s no wonder she’s mistrusting now, leaving Alliance and Law far behind the first chance she gets. She’s forgotten one thing, though… Law is not human. Now he’s thrown his carefully constructed reputation out the window and has become the hunter, succumbing to the addictive need of having his mate within reach. He will not stop until he finds her and brings her screaming all the way back to Alliance, if that’s what it takes.



And then there’s Vicious, cursed to live what remains of his life in a body slowly draining every ounce of his will to live. The scars covering 90% of his body continue to thicken and grow daily making it a painful struggle to even breathe. The only thing keeping him alive is the vague hope that a captive doctor might be able to reverse the damage done to his body. That and the gentle female he’s discovered is his mate. He wants her, needs her, but can’t even touch her, so he constantly pushes her away. She’s tired of feeling like an imposition to the large surly male. He wants to be alone, so that’s how she’ll leave him — alone. He’s about to learn the old adage of ‘be careful what you wish for…’.



Both Law and Vicious have drastic changes taking place in their personal lives, not the least of which is their sudden lack of a mate to stand by their sides. Now they’ve got to repair the damage not only to their relationships with their females, but also to their lives as a whole. Will they both be left standing alone when the smoke clears?



Their stories will play out in this 7th book about the Variant, but they’re not the only members of the Variant community going through changes. Both old and new favorites will face choices and changes that will affect their lives forever.



This book is intended for mature audiences. This book contains violence and abuse both real and implied, and intimacy and sexual situations that may be disturbing for some readers. If you are offended by these subjects, please do not buy this book. While some aspects of this series and the beginnings of the world it is set in are dark, this series is ultimately a tale of survival, revenge, healing, and love.



This book — the story, characters, plot, circumstances, and everything it entails are all products of the author’s imagination. All are human-dreamed, human-imagined, and human-created.

278 pages, Paperback

Published April 3, 2024

42 people are currently reading
14 people want to read

About the author

Sandra R. Neeley

68 books885 followers
I write Paranormal, SciFi and Fantasy Romance. Why, you may ask? Romance, because who doesn’t love a good romance, and the lack of reality in the story lines - because, well, normal is highly overrated. I’m 55, I have two kids, one 32 and one 12 (yes, God does have a sense of humor), one grandchild, one husband, and a menagerie of animals. Literally, too damn many things that eat wandering around our property. I love to cook, and I am a voracious reader, though since I started writing I don’t get as much time to read as I once did. I am a homebody and prefer my writing/reading time to a crowd. I have had stories and fictional characters wandering around in my head for as long as I can remember. I started letting them out into the real world and surprisingly, people have loved them. I am a Self-Published Author, and I like it that way because I can decide what and when to write. I am by no means a formal, polished, properly structured individual and neither are my stories. But people seem to love the easy emotion and passion that naturally flow from them. A bit of a warning though, there are some “triggers” in them that certain people should avoid. I’m a firm believer that you cannot have light without the dark. You cannot fully embrace the joy and elation that my people eventually find if you do not bear witness to their darkest hours as well. So please be sure to read the warnings supplied with each of the synopses about my books before you buy them. I've got three series published at this time, Avaleigh's Boys - PNR, Whispers From the Bayou - Fantasy PNR, Haven - a SciFi, and three more in process. I’m a bit sarcastic, scathing actually, and a smartass to boot, so if I offend you, it is most likely not intentional. But be prepared because it probably won’t be the last time. I’m always glad to hear from readers; those who have followed me from the beginning, and those who have just found my people. So feel free to look me up and say hello, or just follow along; either way, I’m glad to have you.

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5 stars
169 (76%)
4 stars
44 (19%)
3 stars
8 (3%)
2 stars
1 (<1%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
86 reviews4 followers
April 8, 2024
I fall more in love with each book!
Reviewed in the United States on April 8, 2024
This is my favorite book of the year so far! I'm a big fan of the Variant series and loved every book but this one really touched me in a whole different way. Law has always remained calm and had the ability to be the peace keeper for the Variant people but everyone has their breaking point. I thought of him as a sort of bland character throughout the series but now he's a delicious alpha in my eyes! Several characters step up in new ways and it was such an enjoyable change for me. This book made me laugh, have moments of anxiety, tears, and had just got enough heat to cause a girl to fan herself. The ending has me so excited for more. I wish this series would get picked up by one of the networks to be turned into film. I want to say so much but I hate spoilers, so I suggest reading it and if you haven't read the series it's an excellent one to binge on!
Profile Image for Susan.
1,161 reviews22 followers
May 21, 2024
A double whammy with two Variant claiming their mates. ❤

I have so much love for this series, right from book 1 these characters and their stories drew me into the dark world of genetic manipulation that turned soldiers into something not human, into killing machines that follow orders. It's thrilling, terrifying and addictive. I can't get enough.

This book we get a double whammy, Law and Vicious both giving us their stories, now I love the Lawman and I liked how he went after Laurel and let his Hunter nature loose to claim her.

I have so much love for Vicious, he just got to me.
I absolutely broke my heart when I first met him and read of the harrowing ordeal that left him in agonising unbearable pain.
I'm so happy he got to claim his mate Kim, she stood by him through everything and I adore her for that.

I need more Variant as soon as possible. Such a fantastic series that helps me escape from reality for a few hours.
Profile Image for Merry One Maria.
2,330 reviews10 followers
April 13, 2024
More good for the Variants

This is book seven and I have been reading the series. I enjoy this author and this series. This book features all of the variant family plus it focuses on two couples Law and Laurel and Kim and Vicious. As you know from the previous book, Laurel misinterpreted a note that Law left for his secretary and she leaves without anyone noticing. Law’s team are determined to help locate Laurel for Law who was on an assignment. Vicious is in pain and his condition is not stable. Kim is trying to help but Vicious is in so much pain that he can cope with her presence. The feelings are deep and the couples learn about true love, forgiveness, bonds, and compassion. There is also a good amount of story to keep us updated with our other variants and their mates. It’s a solid story and you feel good about where it ends for now. . . . Read On!
Profile Image for Nancy Reads Romance.
1,106 reviews35 followers
April 8, 2024
Just WOW on this book! I got all choked up and I cried a few times. I love the Variant world and family that Sandra Neeley has created. It's easy to get attached to our guys. What was unique about this book is that it covered both Law and Vicious' stories. In the beginning, Law's mate Laurel has run away due to a misunderstanding. That was quite the adventure and ended up a little angsty and quite humorous. Vicious and Kim's story will rip your heart out and then mend it back together. This book is full of SO much. We get to visit with so many of our Variant family. There wasn't anything I didn't love! Don't miss this story. 5 stars! 3 spice emojis!

**If you're a fan of New Species by Lauran Dohner OR Badari Warriors by Veronica Scott then you have to read the Variant series!!
Profile Image for Candy Berg.
279 reviews4 followers
April 18, 2024
The Variant are survivors

Read these in order written. I’ve been enthralled with this story since the beginning. Who in history hasn’t heard of people attempting to remake mankind into something better? Unfortunately there are others who believe they know best and knowing best becomes torture. Out of a horrible story comes pride and success, the people who are Variant are ones who have been altered in an attempt to create a super soldier. However they were not free in that life, now they are and they are rebuilding their lives and still searching for more of their own who are still missing. I know I’m looking forward to more in this series l.
Profile Image for Kerry Pruett.
630 reviews10 followers
April 20, 2024
A great series with a look at what could happen int he future with our military. It is greatly written. As I read, I feel like I am reading about actual people that I know. It is always great to pick up a book to read and get pulled in to where you don't realize you have been there for hours upon hours. I never want to reach the end of these books.
Law and his mate have had a long road to travel to get to their happy ending. It was a great road to travel along with them and get to spend time with a few others along the way.
Profile Image for Jannie Cv.
1,082 reviews29 followers
April 4, 2024
A thrilling addition to the Variant series!
This story is packed with some serious tension and close calls, along with soul satisfying high points. I experienced tears of sorrow and tears of joy. I love the Variant! Their stories are each compelling. Seeing them find their mates, finding love and happiness, helping each other when things go awry is heartwarming. I am always thrilled to read a new ‘chapter’ in their lives. Not to be missed!
401 reviews1 follower
May 10, 2024
Reviewed by Beth

I admit, I read this book out of order. Yes, I'll be backing up to read in order the other stories.

This reminds me of a series I LOVE. Which right now I can't remember the author only that series is labeled by Breed.

Since I read out of order and really enjoyed this story I plan on reading the rest of them.

The story has everything I love in a book. Good & bad guys, strong female character, over coming, finding strength even courage...
Profile Image for TIERN.
521 reviews3 followers
June 20, 2024
This 🎸 big time 🔥

I have truly enjoyed this book , all the Variant’s lives ,and the new addition to the group. Vicious is moving on with his life after his operation, mate and all.
Sin is sharing responsibilities with Law and finally a good life with Lauren.
Brutal’s new baby Warrik and scorn’s is on its way to soon with Athena.
Frenzy and Tawny’s new mating. I can’t wait to read it with Scorn’s as well. This series so far two books. 🎸
Profile Image for Kristen.
31 reviews
April 5, 2024
Great Addition to a Great Series

I could not put this book down!!! I fell in love with the Varient people in book 1 and each book gets better and gives you more characters to cheer on. This book made me laugh, cry, scream and fall in love with a few more sexy Males. Cannot wait for the next book in the series!!
Profile Image for Janis Leonard.
56 reviews
April 15, 2024
Emotional and exciting read.

The Varient series is one of my favorite by this author. She infuses real life struggles with amazing and heartwarming romance. Her stories make you invest yourself in the characters so that you feel a part of their lives. Highly recommend this book and the whole series.
7 reviews
April 17, 2024
love, love love this series

I’m probably an older fan but I love this series! The characters are well written and believable. The only dislike is getting to the end. I hope Sandra’s creative juices are inspiring her to write about some of the other characters we were kind of left hanging about. Thank you so much for the spice to retirement!!!
Profile Image for Brandy Giese.
18 reviews
April 12, 2024
wonderful as always

This book was wonderful as always. I enjoyed the fact that it shared viewpoints from many of the characters giving the reader an opportunity to reacquaint themselves with the community at large.
8 reviews
April 14, 2024
love love love this series!

A.Neely nails it every time for me! Every character is their own person and everything that has been built for characters, plots just keeps on building. Romance, humor and drama! Love it! Will continue to follow this series and the other one attached!
10 reviews
April 17, 2024
This is a excellent book to get lost in

This is one of those books you just can't put down. I've read and reread all of the Variant books so far.
Ms. Medley hasn't disappointed. I've rush to find and read everything I can find that she has written
4 reviews1 follower
April 17, 2024
heartbreaking , heartwarming

Heartbreaking in their suffering and abuse, heartwarming at their survival and ability to make a life for themselves.
A touching , thought provoking series absolutely enjoyed everyone’s story a wonderful series
Profile Image for Theresa.
30 reviews
April 19, 2024
LOVE this world!

These people and their stories are awesome. I loved going on their life's journey with them. I waited anxiously for the next book and am a bit sad to see them end (maybe). One of the few set of books to make me cry and I am not a crier.
16 reviews
June 23, 2024
Amazing

I can't Wait for the next book to come out This 1 was amazing in every way Time That Law got his Happily ever after And that vicious and Kim Finally we're allowed to be together
15 reviews
August 15, 2024
Continuing several romances

Respite is a continuation of several romance storylines that have started in previous books. This is not the book to start with if you’re new to the world of the variant. But as usual, Sandra writes another great chapter to the Variant’s story.
9 reviews
October 10, 2024
Great story telling

Liked the way multiple strands are explored and pulled together without endless boring sex scenes some author indulge in.

I would recommend read in the series in order.
Profile Image for Robin.
213 reviews2 followers
April 26, 2025
Bad thing about reading a new release in a series is the waiting until the next one comes out.

I’m so glad I found this series. I’m hooked and not sure I have the patience to wait for the next one.
268 reviews2 followers
July 5, 2025
so much

There is so much going on in this book it could have another 200 pages and the story would just be getting good. Wait that didn’t sound right it is a good story it would make it a fantastic story. Can’t hardly wait for the next book.
2 reviews
April 6, 2024
Excellent read

This is a wonderful series! Every characters story is heartfelt. I can't wait for the next books in the series.



Profile Image for Michelle.
693 reviews2 followers
April 7, 2024
Another fantastic book

Another fantastic book on the varient. Loved that Law and Vicious got their ladies. Looking forward to the next one.
5 reviews
April 7, 2024
I loved it

Thank you Ms. Neeley for continuing writing such wonderful stories. Looking forward to reading the next one in this series and also your others...😊




2 reviews
April 8, 2024
Perfect

Another perfect story by Sandra NeeLey! I'd recommend this book to anyone. But you definitely have to start with book 1
39 reviews
April 25, 2024
Stop making me cry. Lol

I cried for Vicious. I cried for the babies. Another awesome book. Thank you. Can't wait to need Scorn and Athena's probably not so little one. 💓
1 review
April 28, 2024
Great read

Loved this book. Glad Vicious finally got relief!! Can't wait for the next book in the series. Will it be about Chef or the General? What happens with Tawny and Frenzy?
52 reviews
May 2, 2024
Great stories

A must read if you've already read the first books in the series. If you haven't, then you need to. S R Heeley is an amazing author and all her books are great!
226 reviews3 followers
June 22, 2024
The Variant fought to be free and find happiness. This book adds to the list of characters who find their their mates and a reason to fight for a future. Love the series...the characters...this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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