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Galactic Bonds #4
Only Cold Depths
A WOMAN WHO CAN’T CONTROL HER POWER . . .
Everyone knows the name Vesper Quill. I used to be a lowly lab rat working in a Regal-owned corporation, but thanks to my truebond with Kyrion Caldaren, I’m now one of the most wanted fugitives in the Archipelago Galaxy.
Kyrion and I have spent the last few weeks avoiding bounty hunters, along with the Arrows, the elite Imperium warriors tasked with capturing us. Now we’ve journeyed to a distant planet that’s supposed to be a refuge for truebonded couples, but when new enemies appear, we’re once again in grave danger.
As a seer, inventor, and engineer, I’m skilled at figuring out how things work, but I can’t quite understand my growing magic and newfound psionic abilities. The clock is ticking, and if I don’t figure out how to tap into my power, I’ll doom myself to a gruesome fate, along with Kyrion.
A MAN WHO CAN’T LET GO OF HIS FEAR . . .
As Kyrion Caldaren, I’m used to being respected and feared, especially given my telekinesis, telepathy, telempathy, and other powerful psionic abilities. What I’m not used to is being on the run, but as a rogue Arrow, I’ll do anything to protect Vesper.
Just when I think we’ve finally reached a safe haven, trouble finds us again, reigniting all my fears about losing Vesper.
When the cold depths of our enemies’ plan are finally revealed, the truth is more terrifying than anything I could imagine. Soon Vesper and I are fighting for our lives again, but even with our growing truebond power, this is one battle we might not survive.
Everyone knows the name Vesper Quill. I used to be a lowly lab rat working in a Regal-owned corporation, but thanks to my truebond with Kyrion Caldaren, I’m now one of the most wanted fugitives in the Archipelago Galaxy.
Kyrion and I have spent the last few weeks avoiding bounty hunters, along with the Arrows, the elite Imperium warriors tasked with capturing us. Now we’ve journeyed to a distant planet that’s supposed to be a refuge for truebonded couples, but when new enemies appear, we’re once again in grave danger.
As a seer, inventor, and engineer, I’m skilled at figuring out how things work, but I can’t quite understand my growing magic and newfound psionic abilities. The clock is ticking, and if I don’t figure out how to tap into my power, I’ll doom myself to a gruesome fate, along with Kyrion.
A MAN WHO CAN’T LET GO OF HIS FEAR . . .
As Kyrion Caldaren, I’m used to being respected and feared, especially given my telekinesis, telepathy, telempathy, and other powerful psionic abilities. What I’m not used to is being on the run, but as a rogue Arrow, I’ll do anything to protect Vesper.
Just when I think we’ve finally reached a safe haven, trouble finds us again, reigniting all my fears about losing Vesper.
When the cold depths of our enemies’ plan are finally revealed, the truth is more terrifying than anything I could imagine. Soon Vesper and I are fighting for our lives again, but even with our growing truebond power, this is one battle we might not survive.
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First published October 29, 2024
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About the author
Jennifer Estep
97 books12k followersJennifer Estep is a New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling author who prowls the streets of her imagination in search of her next fantasy idea.
Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.
For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at www.JenniferEstep.com or sign up for her newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-....
FOLLOW JENNIFER ONLINE:
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Happy reading, everyone! 😎
Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.
For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at www.JenniferEstep.com or sign up for her newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-....
FOLLOW JENNIFER ONLINE:
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/yyj59omw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_es...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jennifer_Estep
Amazon: https://amzn.to/39lCyX6
BookBub: https://tinyurl.com/y4dm3zso
Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/y638q98k
Jennifer's blog: https://tinyurl.com/2dj4afb
Jennifer's newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-...
Happy reading, everyone! 😎
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
November 3, 2024
I LOVED the first two books in this series. They are vintage Estep and SOOOO good. The third book is a novella. It was good but focussed on a secondary character. This book is a complete (and disappointing) mystery to me. Vesper, the strong MacGiver-type heroine that I absolutely adore is completely gone! The first 20% is the story is nothing more than a huge pity party on her part. AND, through the majority of the book, instead of thinking outside the box and finding ways to save herself, she freezes and allows her enemies to take her… MULTIPLE times!! This turned a totally amazing bad-A, to a weak, TSTL whiner. I could hardly believe it.
I am flummoxed! What happened to her?!?! The even sadder part is Kyrion (MMC) is no better! He wallows in self-doubt almost as much as her… well, no one can be as bad as her but, it is a close thing. “I’m not good enough” (her), “I’ll never be able to save her” (him) peppered the entire book constantly.
The one thing that kept the stars at three is the absolute unchallenged gift Ms. Estep has to write nail-biting, riveting fight/battle scenes. Those are still top-of-the-board-can’t-put-down- awesomeness! Best action and adventure out there!
I am flummoxed! What happened to her?!?! The even sadder part is Kyrion (MMC) is no better! He wallows in self-doubt almost as much as her… well, no one can be as bad as her but, it is a close thing. “I’m not good enough” (her), “I’ll never be able to save her” (him) peppered the entire book constantly.
The one thing that kept the stars at three is the absolute unchallenged gift Ms. Estep has to write nail-biting, riveting fight/battle scenes. Those are still top-of-the-board-can’t-put-down- awesomeness! Best action and adventure out there!
November 11, 2024
I worried about this book, because it seemed like Vesper and Kyrion backslid from where we left them in book 2. Like, we had two whole books of them being undecided about the bond, but they accepted it explosively in the end of book 2 (and then book 3 was a novella with Zane). To have them floundering in awkward, unsure land in this book was frankly irritating.
But I do get it. Accepting the bond doesn't make their personal baggage go away, and they both have a backstory that makes them not trust in love. Not trust that the universe won't pull the rug out from under them. They needed to shake that off in this book, and choose to be all in.
Vesper was also surprisingly TSTL in a couple places. She's generally been a very solid, competent main character, so that was an unhappy development. I'm not sure if it's just that being up against another seer brought all her insecurities to the fore, or what, but it felt like she was repeatedly eager to go off without Kyrion in this book, and it was pretty much a shit show every time.
That said, I liked it. I like them together. And I liked the progression with the Zimmers (Zane and Wendell... Beatrice can suck it). I did not like the Colliers much - I have no idea why Asterin was treated like an outsider in the family. We got the story of her dad, but like, okay. Why does her dad making a mistake in the mine tarnish everyone's opinion of her? They seem to be fine with her mom, who remarried Lord Collier...so this made no sense to me. Also, Siya is a complete fucking bitch, and Kyrion should have killed her. Someone is going to sooner or later - her ego does not match her skillset - so it might as well be him, now.
Looking forward to the next one.
But I do get it. Accepting the bond doesn't make their personal baggage go away, and they both have a backstory that makes them not trust in love. Not trust that the universe won't pull the rug out from under them. They needed to shake that off in this book, and choose to be all in.
Vesper was also surprisingly TSTL in a couple places. She's generally been a very solid, competent main character, so that was an unhappy development. I'm not sure if it's just that being up against another seer brought all her insecurities to the fore, or what, but it felt like she was repeatedly eager to go off without Kyrion in this book, and it was pretty much a shit show every time.
That said, I liked it. I like them together. And I liked the progression with the Zimmers (Zane and Wendell... Beatrice can suck it). I did not like the Colliers much - I have no idea why Asterin was treated like an outsider in the family. We got the story of her dad, but like, okay. Why does her dad making a mistake in the mine tarnish everyone's opinion of her? They seem to be fine with her mom, who remarried Lord Collier...so this made no sense to me. Also, Siya is a complete fucking bitch, and Kyrion should have killed her. Someone is going to sooner or later - her ego does not match her skillset - so it might as well be him, now.
Looking forward to the next one.
November 9, 2024
Vesper Quill and Kyrion Calderon are still on the run with a bounty on their heads. Their true-bond has made them the object of Callus Holloway's greed, wanting to capture their psion power. Vesper's friend Asterin has encouraged the couple to come to her home world, where the true-bonded are protected.
However, when they arrive, Vesper and Kyrion quickly learn that Asterin's family is not too thrilled to meet them. Asterin's sister is downright antagonistic. If that wasn't bad enough, a pair of mercenaries with powerful psionic powers are hot on their heels. And then the Zimmer family shows up—do they truly want a family connection with Vesper or do they have an ulterior motive?
As usual, Vesper and Kyrion have multiple problems to solve. They've been warned that their true-bond hasn't yet stabilized and they have no idea how to deal with that either. Can they figure things out? Can they overcome the past and forge a real future for themselves?
Estep continues to write fabulous food scenes. I wonder if those happen when she gets hungry? And why do I suspect that she may have a cocky and annoying brother rather like Zane Zimmer?
However, when they arrive, Vesper and Kyrion quickly learn that Asterin's family is not too thrilled to meet them. Asterin's sister is downright antagonistic. If that wasn't bad enough, a pair of mercenaries with powerful psionic powers are hot on their heels. And then the Zimmer family shows up—do they truly want a family connection with Vesper or do they have an ulterior motive?
As usual, Vesper and Kyrion have multiple problems to solve. They've been warned that their true-bond hasn't yet stabilized and they have no idea how to deal with that either. Can they figure things out? Can they overcome the past and forge a real future for themselves?
Estep continues to write fabulous food scenes. I wonder if those happen when she gets hungry? And why do I suspect that she may have a cocky and annoying brother rather like Zane Zimmer?
February 9, 2025
I read the first 45% of this in pieces, mostly one chapter at a time, and struggled to get into it. I'm willing to attribute at least 75% of that to outside forces. But I will say once things started moving at around the 45% mark, I got into it and really enjoyed how things played out. I really like where this left Vesper and Kyrion, and also I really am going to need more of Zane and Asterin (especially together).
November 4, 2024
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Science Fiction
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Only Cold Depths is the fourth installment in author Jennifer Estep's Galactic Bonds series which takes place right after the events of Only Hard Problems which featured Zane and Asterin Armas. The story alternates between Vesper Quill and Kyrion Caldaren. Vesper is an inventor, engineer, and seer who has escaped enemies like Holloway and Techwave who want her recaptured. Kyrion is the former leader of the Arrows and has taken the initiative to protect Vesper even from herself.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Science Fiction
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Only Cold Depths is the fourth installment in author Jennifer Estep's Galactic Bonds series which takes place right after the events of Only Hard Problems which featured Zane and Asterin Armas. The story alternates between Vesper Quill and Kyrion Caldaren. Vesper is an inventor, engineer, and seer who has escaped enemies like Holloway and Techwave who want her recaptured. Kyrion is the former leader of the Arrows and has taken the initiative to protect Vesper even from herself.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
November 3, 2024
I find this series losing steam, unfortunately. I really hope the next one is the last, with the final confrontation with Holloway. If not, I hope it's all about Vesper inventing cool stuff and winning fights on wit and intelligence.
Huh, I think I just didn't like Kyrion much in this one.
Huh, I think I just didn't like Kyrion much in this one.
November 5, 2024
UNPOPULAR OPINION.
I. Just. Can't. Finish. It.
I'm bored to effing tears.
Tapped out at 57 % m.
I. Just. Can't. Finish. It.
I'm bored to effing tears.
Tapped out at 57 % m.
April 22, 2025
3ish stars?
The last 25% or so was a lot better but I found this book dragged. Vesper is filled with self-doubt and everything makes that worse as she believes she is the "weak-link". I get it, lots has suddenly changed in her life but the whining got annoying. Her and Kyrion don't talk to one another about how they feel, instead you get all the internal turmoil that is her not being enough and him not being able to save her. Frustrating! I missed Vespers thinking outside the box, it's missing for most of the book instead she is just getting captured and being a bit on the TSTL side.
The mystery, if you can even call it that is so obvious it hurts. The new bad guys were interesting but they were also a bit one-dimensional. Power hungry, psychopaths running a mercenary company.
I still think the world and the action scenes are so good. Estep does know how to keep your attention during those big show downs. But I did find the characters lacking something this time around.
I am curious where things go with the Zimmer's in the future. Plus what Asterin will get up to after this book. I hope we get another book with their POVs.
Also, how many times do you have to say House Collier?? It's not like the reader forgets between one paragraph and the next. Turns out its said over 140 times and it isn't a part of the book until 25% or so and stops mostly around 75%. Too much repetition and padding of pages.
This one was just okay, but I will still read the next one when it is out later in the year.
The last 25% or so was a lot better but I found this book dragged. Vesper is filled with self-doubt and everything makes that worse as she believes she is the "weak-link". I get it, lots has suddenly changed in her life but the whining got annoying. Her and Kyrion don't talk to one another about how they feel, instead you get all the internal turmoil that is her not being enough and him not being able to save her. Frustrating! I missed Vespers thinking outside the box, it's missing for most of the book instead she is just getting captured and being a bit on the TSTL side.
The mystery, if you can even call it that is so obvious it hurts. The new bad guys were interesting but they were also a bit one-dimensional. Power hungry, psychopaths running a mercenary company.
I still think the world and the action scenes are so good. Estep does know how to keep your attention during those big show downs. But I did find the characters lacking something this time around.
I am curious where things go with the Zimmer's in the future. Plus what Asterin will get up to after this book. I hope we get another book with their POVs.
Also, how many times do you have to say House Collier?? It's not like the reader forgets between one paragraph and the next. Turns out its said over 140 times and it isn't a part of the book until 25% or so and stops mostly around 75%. Too much repetition and padding of pages.
This one was just okay, but I will still read the next one when it is out later in the year.
October 30, 2024
I have been waiting for this book for a while because space opera is currently one of my favorite genres. Vesper and Kyr are also two great characters and most importantly the author keeps a pretty high pace and not all of her plots are predictable, in fact I'm seriously thinking about getting into reading her urban fantasy series because it reminds me a lot of Ilona Andrews' style which means a lot for me.
Stavo aspettando questo libro da un po' perché attualmente lo space opera é uno dei miei generi preferiti. Vesper e Kyr sono anche due ottimi personaggi e soprattutto l'autrice tiene un ritmo piuttosto alto e non tutte le sue trame sono scontate, anzi sto seriamente pensando di mettermi a leggere la sua serie urban fantasy perché mi ricorda parecchio lo stile di Ilona Andrews che per me é una garanzia.
Stavo aspettando questo libro da un po' perché attualmente lo space opera é uno dei miei generi preferiti. Vesper e Kyr sono anche due ottimi personaggi e soprattutto l'autrice tiene un ritmo piuttosto alto e non tutte le sue trame sono scontate, anzi sto seriamente pensando di mettermi a leggere la sua serie urban fantasy perché mi ricorda parecchio lo stile di Ilona Andrews che per me é una garanzia.
February 13, 2025
I struggled with this until Zane showed up and then I got much more interested. Please can I have more Zane/Asterin in the next book???
October 23, 2024
Picking up shortly after the second and third titles, Only Cold Depths finds Vesper and Kyrion on the run from the leader of the Imperium, his Arrows, and the terrorist group Techwavers. With a huge bounty on their heads, it’s not surprising when dangerous mercenaries discover their location and nearly capture Vesper. But when the same group is also involved in a mysterious plot on a non-Imperium planet, Vesper and Kyrion realize something devious is going on.
Only Cold Depths continues the high-action adventures of Vesper and Kyrion in a series that should be read in order. Part planet-hopping sci-fi and part magic-wielding fantasy, the GalacticGalactic Bond series is a wonderful blend of action and romance. There is an over-arching storyline of the Techwavers versus the Imperium, which involves the couple, who are truebonded, making them a prize to the devious Callus Holloway. While this storyline isn’t the central focus this time around, it’s still plays a significant part in what happens.
I enjoy the personal relationships most in the series. I liked that even though it took what felt like a really long time, Kyrion and Vesper’s relationship continues to progress. Their bond gets stronger and they become wiser. I really enjoying watching Vesper having to come to terms with her newly discovered family. I don’t love that her insecurities and past continue to dominate her actions; however, I hope that based on the events in Only Cold Depths, she’s moving past her worries. I don’t love that her powers, especially when combined with Kyrion and the truebond, gives Vesper such a wide range of capabilities that get her out of any situation.
Only Cold Depths brings readers lots of action and more forward momentum for both the romance and the series plot. There are little side stories (such as Asterin and Zane!) that add to the overall enjoyment, and I hope we get more progress on these supporting characters, soon!
My Rating: B
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by the author
Only Cold Depths continues the high-action adventures of Vesper and Kyrion in a series that should be read in order. Part planet-hopping sci-fi and part magic-wielding fantasy, the GalacticGalactic Bond series is a wonderful blend of action and romance. There is an over-arching storyline of the Techwavers versus the Imperium, which involves the couple, who are truebonded, making them a prize to the devious Callus Holloway. While this storyline isn’t the central focus this time around, it’s still plays a significant part in what happens.
I enjoy the personal relationships most in the series. I liked that even though it took what felt like a really long time, Kyrion and Vesper’s relationship continues to progress. Their bond gets stronger and they become wiser. I really enjoying watching Vesper having to come to terms with her newly discovered family. I don’t love that her insecurities and past continue to dominate her actions; however, I hope that based on the events in Only Cold Depths, she’s moving past her worries. I don’t love that her powers, especially when combined with Kyrion and the truebond, gives Vesper such a wide range of capabilities that get her out of any situation.
Only Cold Depths brings readers lots of action and more forward momentum for both the romance and the series plot. There are little side stories (such as Asterin and Zane!) that add to the overall enjoyment, and I hope we get more progress on these supporting characters, soon!
My Rating: B
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by the author
November 22, 2024
Welp, I guess Jennifer Estep is one of my favourites now. This was thrilling, fun and I love the setting and the politics and the feels oh my. I was a bit nervous when the book begins with trouble in truebonded paradise, but it actually worked for the story and gave both Vesper and Kyrion nice growth arcs, together and apart, as they faced their demons. The family reveals and the ever-growing list of enemies kept the pace up and I am eagerly awaiting what I sincerely hope will be another love story that the ground work keeps get laid for. Can't wait for the next book, pew pew pew.
December 16, 2024
4.5 stars!
November 1, 2024
An excellent plane read, and an excellent continuation of this story.
October 20, 2024
This was so much fun. Action packed from page one!! Jennifer’s writing is incredible in this one. At no point did I know what was going to happen.
I loved that Vesper and Kyr don’t just have it easy because they’re bonded. They really had to work for their bond and their relationship in this book.
The character growth was so satisfying. Watching Vesper get her happy ending is all I want!!! The found family moments are my favorite. I really love Zane lol. He is so sarcastic and brings so much chaos to the dynamic.
Sweet baby Kryion is such a good man. He was really going through it trying to keep Vesper safe, but their bond by the end was beautiful.
The new enemies and plot twists!! I’m really excited to see what happens next. Hopefully we get more Zane. And maybe Asterin. 👀
I loved this book. It was the perfect continuation of this series! And I’m really excited it’s not over. Give me all the character spin offs!!! 🥰
I loved that Vesper and Kyr don’t just have it easy because they’re bonded. They really had to work for their bond and their relationship in this book.
The character growth was so satisfying. Watching Vesper get her happy ending is all I want!!! The found family moments are my favorite. I really love Zane lol. He is so sarcastic and brings so much chaos to the dynamic.
Sweet baby Kryion is such a good man. He was really going through it trying to keep Vesper safe, but their bond by the end was beautiful.
The new enemies and plot twists!! I’m really excited to see what happens next. Hopefully we get more Zane. And maybe Asterin. 👀
I loved this book. It was the perfect continuation of this series! And I’m really excited it’s not over. Give me all the character spin offs!!! 🥰
February 27, 2025
Book 4 in the series has Vesper and Kyrion on the run from Holloway, who wants to siphon their powers as well as Esmina and Pollux, mercenary assassins who want to collect on the multi-million bounty Holloway has placed on them. They flee by spaceship to Erzton territory to the estate of their friend Asterin, only to be pursued by their enemies and others who want them for other nefarious reasons. The story was well written and compelling, to be continued in future books in this series.
paused
November 18, 202428% in and I'm absolutely pushing myself through this. I don't know if I'm just not in the mood for it or am over it all together :/ such a shame since I own and love the first book.
So, I'm pausing this, not dnfing, and I hope to pick it up the next time in the mood for a sci-fi romance. Maybe re-reading the series is needed.
So, I'm pausing this, not dnfing, and I hope to pick it up the next time in the mood for a sci-fi romance. Maybe re-reading the series is needed.
August 23, 2025
Good continuation of this series. Not the final book in the series, but still ended in a good place. This is science fiction romance, though there is a fantasy feel to it. I feel this could probably fall under either science fiction or fantasy.
Dual POV, which I don't always like, but feel like it was done well.
Dual POV, which I don't always like, but feel like it was done well.
November 9, 2024
I really like this series. It's not the most revolutionary, but it's got all the elements of an enjoyable fantasy/scifi romance. The characters are fun and unique, the individual book ties in a new conflict and the overarching series conflict, we get to explore an old romance and a budding new one, and Vesper's mindscape is always fascinating to explore. Unfortunately I'm going to have to wait a whole year for the next one 😭.
October 19, 2025
I tried really hard, over several attempts, to finish this book, but I just couldn't. I didn't like our MCs in this and found myself very bored. The first book was fantastic, but I think it's time to give up.
November 2, 2024
Wow - such a great read. Looking forward to the next instalment.
March 12, 2025
2025 Reads #102/250
3.75⭐️
3.75⭐️
June 23, 2025
More intergalactic fun and adventures!!
October 31, 2024
I was really looking forward to this book, but felt like there was something missing. The other books were exhilarating and felt like we were moving forward but this one felt like we moved back a few steps. I was a bit annoyed that we were having the same problems and that their relationship wasn’t as talked about. Though there was focus on vesper’s family and other people associated with them. It felt too stagnant. Overall it was a good read I’m definitely going to be waiting for the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2025
3.5
Seems like this is just back and forth imo
Seems like this is just back and forth imo
September 25, 2025
The whole galaxy has heard of former Arrow Kyrion Calderen and his true-bond partner, Vesper Quill. A bounty is on their heads and they are on a running dodge hopefully to safety outside Holloway’s jurisdiction, but trouble and danger do seem to find them and a new threat arises. Jennifer Estep’s continuing Galactic Bonds series has me utterly captivated.
Only Cold Depths is the fourth in the Galactic Bonds space opera series. The books are tightly connected so this series must be taken in order.
Only Cold Depths picks up after the end of Only Hard Problems which took a side path and was told from Zane’s perspective, but this book is back to Vesper and Kyrion’s points of view.
The story opens with Vesper and Kyrion on the run and stopping off to refuel and grab some food supplies only to be tagged by a bounty team. No surprise, the bounty team was tough, but there were more formidable foes right on their heels. Vesper has a way of getting through situations, but she is knocked off kilter when she is confronted by another Seer who gets in her head and magnifies Vesper’s existing fears- that she’s weak, out of her league, and will likely get her and Kyrion killed because she can’t harness her magic or figure out their true bond issues.
Kyrion has his own raw spots and the pair really struggle the length of this book. However, their next stop is Asterin’s home world with a similar society to the Regals though with one important difference- they respect and honor True Bonds. Asterin’s mother and step-father share such a bond so she has no doubt Vesper and Kyrion will be given sanctuary.
Unfortunately, Asterin’s House Collier clan and family are involved in political intrigue and power plays so Vesper and Kyrion end up embroiled in the middle. Someone is trying to take down House Collier and maybe the same someone is interested in the bounty.
Meanwhile, Vesper has her own personal crisis magnified when she must face the fact that she’s an unacknowledged daughter of House Zimmer and the Zimmer’s led by Zane have tracked her down, too. She has so much anger at feeling abandoned and is scared of trying for a connection especially with people she isn’t sure she can trust.
Only Cold Depths had a lot of moving parts in that drama, action, and intrigue all swirled together. Whether it was Vesper and Kyrion or secondary regulars like Zane and Asterin, or new characters like Asterin’s family, everyone was stirred up by something. It was tough to see Vesper and Kyrion frustrated and unable to work their true bond, but interesting to have the Colliers there to give them some knowledge and set them on the right track. Would they get it figured out and sorted by the big showdown against a pair of truly lethal, powerful villains, though?
While there were slow bits, there were also action and suspense aspects, as usual. Wasn’t surprised by what a late reveal offered. Things are coming to a head now as various factions line up for the final showdown. Space Opera and those who like drama and intrigue in their sci-fi romance should definitely give this series a go.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 9.17.25.
Only Cold Depths is the fourth in the Galactic Bonds space opera series. The books are tightly connected so this series must be taken in order.
Only Cold Depths picks up after the end of Only Hard Problems which took a side path and was told from Zane’s perspective, but this book is back to Vesper and Kyrion’s points of view.
The story opens with Vesper and Kyrion on the run and stopping off to refuel and grab some food supplies only to be tagged by a bounty team. No surprise, the bounty team was tough, but there were more formidable foes right on their heels. Vesper has a way of getting through situations, but she is knocked off kilter when she is confronted by another Seer who gets in her head and magnifies Vesper’s existing fears- that she’s weak, out of her league, and will likely get her and Kyrion killed because she can’t harness her magic or figure out their true bond issues.
Kyrion has his own raw spots and the pair really struggle the length of this book. However, their next stop is Asterin’s home world with a similar society to the Regals though with one important difference- they respect and honor True Bonds. Asterin’s mother and step-father share such a bond so she has no doubt Vesper and Kyrion will be given sanctuary.
Unfortunately, Asterin’s House Collier clan and family are involved in political intrigue and power plays so Vesper and Kyrion end up embroiled in the middle. Someone is trying to take down House Collier and maybe the same someone is interested in the bounty.
Meanwhile, Vesper has her own personal crisis magnified when she must face the fact that she’s an unacknowledged daughter of House Zimmer and the Zimmer’s led by Zane have tracked her down, too. She has so much anger at feeling abandoned and is scared of trying for a connection especially with people she isn’t sure she can trust.
Only Cold Depths had a lot of moving parts in that drama, action, and intrigue all swirled together. Whether it was Vesper and Kyrion or secondary regulars like Zane and Asterin, or new characters like Asterin’s family, everyone was stirred up by something. It was tough to see Vesper and Kyrion frustrated and unable to work their true bond, but interesting to have the Colliers there to give them some knowledge and set them on the right track. Would they get it figured out and sorted by the big showdown against a pair of truly lethal, powerful villains, though?
While there were slow bits, there were also action and suspense aspects, as usual. Wasn’t surprised by what a late reveal offered. Things are coming to a head now as various factions line up for the final showdown. Space Opera and those who like drama and intrigue in their sci-fi romance should definitely give this series a go.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 9.17.25.
December 1, 2024
Reasons why this book frustrated me:
1) Overuse of words such as “drawled”;
2) Repetitive use of certain phrases to describe things or people (“the most notorious killer in the galaxy”, “my inner monster”, “sticky web”);
3) The “pew pew pew!”, “boom!”, etc.;
4) The fact that the narrator insisted on explaining things that I, as a reader, should realize on my own (e.g. Vesper being an unwanted child and the fact that she yearns for a family). I am not dumb, I can connect things and come to my own conclusions.
5) The fact that it felt like the book really didn’t have a plot, but a story meant to keep the ball rolling (e.g. introducing random new villains, when we already know who the ultimate villain is);
6) Connected to the above, the fact that this was the last book, and in fact, it isn’t.
If these things bother you, this is not the book for you.
1) Overuse of words such as “drawled”;
2) Repetitive use of certain phrases to describe things or people (“the most notorious killer in the galaxy”, “my inner monster”, “sticky web”);
3) The “pew pew pew!”, “boom!”, etc.;
4) The fact that the narrator insisted on explaining things that I, as a reader, should realize on my own (e.g. Vesper being an unwanted child and the fact that she yearns for a family). I am not dumb, I can connect things and come to my own conclusions.
5) The fact that it felt like the book really didn’t have a plot, but a story meant to keep the ball rolling (e.g. introducing random new villains, when we already know who the ultimate villain is);
6) Connected to the above, the fact that this was the last book, and in fact, it isn’t.
If these things bother you, this is not the book for you.
March 18, 2025
Series: Galactic Bonds #4
Rating: 5 stars - I loved it!
“Sometimes I couldn’t believe how drastically my life had changed. I’d gone from being a lowly lab rat toiling away in obscurity, to a Regal lady and the head of a corporation, to an infamous fugitive.”
It’s been a few weeks since Vesper and Kyrian escaped Callus Holloway's attempt to capture them and steal their truebond magic. They are on the run and are trying to avoid the various mercenaries after them because of the huge bounty Holloway has put on their heads. Vesper and Kyrian are making their way to a potential safe zone in the Erzton empire but like usual, things don’t go according to plan.
“Before I met Vesper, I had been living in the dark, like some creature trapped in a cave who never saw the sun. She had brought so much joy and wit and humor and warmth into my life in such a short time, and if anything happened to her . . . well, it would destroy me, regardless of our psionic connection.”
This was an action packed and dangerous adventure for Kyrian and Vesper. They are on the run evading mercenaries and Arrows, dealing with an unstable bond, and trying to figure out their next step. When Vesper is almost taken by two mercenaries, with extremely strong psionic abilities, they find themselves dealing with new dangers and a larger plot that they keep unraveling.
From the very first chapter I was hooked to this story and couldn't put the book down. Vesper and Kyrian have come a long way from their initial meeting and revelation that they formed a truebond. They are now a couple who will do anything they can to protect the other from being taken by Holloway. I really love the progression of their relationship and how it wasn’t just an instant love story. These two have a lot of things they have to work through before they can be an actual couple and I have loved seeing that progression.
“Vesper was my blue moon. My sun, my stars, and everything else that was bright and beautiful and lovely in the galaxy.”
The fight against the mercenaries Esmina and Pollux was fascinating and action packed. These two were great villains and I loved learning more about them, especially their abilities. Esmina was an especially fun villain since she could use her seer magic to predict things, making her a hard foe to vanquish. Vesper and Kyrian have a hard fight against these two but along the way they learn to trust each other and their bond. It made for a great fight and I love seeing these two grow stronger, in both their relationship and their magic.
“We can’t save each other all the time. Sometimes we both need to save ourselves.”
We also finally get to see Vesper confront the Zimmers and decide if she wants to be a part of the family. I have been eagerly waiting for this confrontation since her heritage was revealed and it didn’t disappoint. It was emotional and hard for both sides and time was given for Vesper to think over everything she learned from them. I will be extremely interested in seeing how this relationship plays out in future books.
Overall, this was a fantastic addition to this series and I couldn’t put it down. While Vesper and Kyrian may have defeated one enemy, they still have Holloway and Nereza to deal with. I really can’t wait to read the next book now.
TW: PTSD, death, kidnapping, inujuries and gore; past kidnapping and torture mentioned; child abandonment discussed;
Rating: 5 stars - I loved it!
“Sometimes I couldn’t believe how drastically my life had changed. I’d gone from being a lowly lab rat toiling away in obscurity, to a Regal lady and the head of a corporation, to an infamous fugitive.”
It’s been a few weeks since Vesper and Kyrian escaped Callus Holloway's attempt to capture them and steal their truebond magic. They are on the run and are trying to avoid the various mercenaries after them because of the huge bounty Holloway has put on their heads. Vesper and Kyrian are making their way to a potential safe zone in the Erzton empire but like usual, things don’t go according to plan.
“Before I met Vesper, I had been living in the dark, like some creature trapped in a cave who never saw the sun. She had brought so much joy and wit and humor and warmth into my life in such a short time, and if anything happened to her . . . well, it would destroy me, regardless of our psionic connection.”
This was an action packed and dangerous adventure for Kyrian and Vesper. They are on the run evading mercenaries and Arrows, dealing with an unstable bond, and trying to figure out their next step. When Vesper is almost taken by two mercenaries, with extremely strong psionic abilities, they find themselves dealing with new dangers and a larger plot that they keep unraveling.
From the very first chapter I was hooked to this story and couldn't put the book down. Vesper and Kyrian have come a long way from their initial meeting and revelation that they formed a truebond. They are now a couple who will do anything they can to protect the other from being taken by Holloway. I really love the progression of their relationship and how it wasn’t just an instant love story. These two have a lot of things they have to work through before they can be an actual couple and I have loved seeing that progression.
“Vesper was my blue moon. My sun, my stars, and everything else that was bright and beautiful and lovely in the galaxy.”
The fight against the mercenaries Esmina and Pollux was fascinating and action packed. These two were great villains and I loved learning more about them, especially their abilities. Esmina was an especially fun villain since she could use her seer magic to predict things, making her a hard foe to vanquish. Vesper and Kyrian have a hard fight against these two but along the way they learn to trust each other and their bond. It made for a great fight and I love seeing these two grow stronger, in both their relationship and their magic.
“We can’t save each other all the time. Sometimes we both need to save ourselves.”
We also finally get to see Vesper confront the Zimmers and decide if she wants to be a part of the family. I have been eagerly waiting for this confrontation since her heritage was revealed and it didn’t disappoint. It was emotional and hard for both sides and time was given for Vesper to think over everything she learned from them. I will be extremely interested in seeing how this relationship plays out in future books.
Overall, this was a fantastic addition to this series and I couldn’t put it down. While Vesper and Kyrian may have defeated one enemy, they still have Holloway and Nereza to deal with. I really can’t wait to read the next book now.
TW: PTSD, death, kidnapping, inujuries and gore; past kidnapping and torture mentioned; child abandonment discussed;
October 29, 2024
Only Cold Depths by Jennifer Estep is the 4th book in her Galactic Bonds Sc-Fi/Fantasy series. As noted, many times, I am a big fan of Jennifer Estep, having enjoyed all her fantastic series. I was thrilled to learn that she was starting a different kind of new series, and after reading this second book, I can’t wait for more.
Vesper Quill, our heroine, is on the run with her truebond, Kyrion Caldaren; with both of them being the most wanted fugitives. Always avoiding Bounty Hunters, Arrows, Psionics, and Imperium warriors determined to capturing them. They are now journeying to a different planet that welcomes truebond couples.
Vesper is a seer, as well as being a successful inventor/ engineer: but she still needs to increase her powers to use her magic or psionic abilities. Kyrion is also very powerful, maybe more so with his Psionic Arrow abilities; he is determined to protect Vesper at any cost. Together their truebond continues to grow.
Vesper and Kyrion arrive at House Collier, who are accepted as they are truebond; the family allows them to live in their House. Siya, one of the daughters, is in charge of the security, with her team using Hammers as vicious weapons. Asterin, one of the other daughters, is friends with Vesper, and she helped solve some problems in past attacks in the Imperium. To Vesper and Kyrion’s surprise, they are invited to a ball, and they are shocked that House Zimmer was invited, bringing along Zane, Wendall and Beatrice. Vesper is not happy, as the Zimmer family have always ignored her as part of their family; but their appearance forces her to listen to some truths, which they want to bring her back into the family. Of course, Vesper hates Zane, but by the end, she will begin to accept both Zane and Wendall.
Vesper is early at meeting with Asterin, and notices someone is trying to steal equipment; which leads her to Esmine and Pollux, with their team. Throughout most of the book, both Esmine and Pollux are determined to kidnap either Vesper or Kyrion, which will lead into and exciting, wild, suspenseful threat against Vesper, Kyrion, Zane and Asterin. Will they survive?
What follows is an exciting, non-stop suspenseful, intriguing, violent captivating story that kept me unable to put the book down. Vesper continued improve her magic powers, as well as being mentally able to reach out to Kyrion. She was a fantastic heroine, smart, savvy, with amazing abilities. I loved seeing Vesper & Kyrion work together to fight against their enemies, with their truebond romance continuing to increase. The last half of the book was extremely tense and exciting, with some twists and surprises along the way.
Only Cold Depths was a terrific intriguing Space/Sci-Fi adventure filled with secrets, lies, betrayal, magic, elemental, tense and danger. Only Cold Depths was very well written by Jennifer Estep. I can’t wait to see what Jennifer has in story of us.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Vesper Quill, our heroine, is on the run with her truebond, Kyrion Caldaren; with both of them being the most wanted fugitives. Always avoiding Bounty Hunters, Arrows, Psionics, and Imperium warriors determined to capturing them. They are now journeying to a different planet that welcomes truebond couples.
Vesper is a seer, as well as being a successful inventor/ engineer: but she still needs to increase her powers to use her magic or psionic abilities. Kyrion is also very powerful, maybe more so with his Psionic Arrow abilities; he is determined to protect Vesper at any cost. Together their truebond continues to grow.
Vesper and Kyrion arrive at House Collier, who are accepted as they are truebond; the family allows them to live in their House. Siya, one of the daughters, is in charge of the security, with her team using Hammers as vicious weapons. Asterin, one of the other daughters, is friends with Vesper, and she helped solve some problems in past attacks in the Imperium. To Vesper and Kyrion’s surprise, they are invited to a ball, and they are shocked that House Zimmer was invited, bringing along Zane, Wendall and Beatrice. Vesper is not happy, as the Zimmer family have always ignored her as part of their family; but their appearance forces her to listen to some truths, which they want to bring her back into the family. Of course, Vesper hates Zane, but by the end, she will begin to accept both Zane and Wendall.
Vesper is early at meeting with Asterin, and notices someone is trying to steal equipment; which leads her to Esmine and Pollux, with their team. Throughout most of the book, both Esmine and Pollux are determined to kidnap either Vesper or Kyrion, which will lead into and exciting, wild, suspenseful threat against Vesper, Kyrion, Zane and Asterin. Will they survive?
What follows is an exciting, non-stop suspenseful, intriguing, violent captivating story that kept me unable to put the book down. Vesper continued improve her magic powers, as well as being mentally able to reach out to Kyrion. She was a fantastic heroine, smart, savvy, with amazing abilities. I loved seeing Vesper & Kyrion work together to fight against their enemies, with their truebond romance continuing to increase. The last half of the book was extremely tense and exciting, with some twists and surprises along the way.
Only Cold Depths was a terrific intriguing Space/Sci-Fi adventure filled with secrets, lies, betrayal, magic, elemental, tense and danger. Only Cold Depths was very well written by Jennifer Estep. I can’t wait to see what Jennifer has in story of us.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
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