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Verdant String #8
Defender
Hunted, captured, taken off-planet . . .
As a Special Forces Commander, Ethan Hyt is well aware his duty is to protect the Planetary Head of Defense, Velda Shanïha, but when their ship is shot down and they are taken prisoner, he finds it harder and harder to pretend he’s protecting Velda out of duty.
Velda knows that as Aponi’s Head of Defense, she’s a good bargaining chip for her enemies, and she’s hoping that fact will keep her and Ethan alive.
She and Ethan made a good team before, but their forced proximity has made their connection even stronger, and they’ll need each other to take every opportunity to get free.
Because if they don’t, Velda’s afraid they’re going to disappear forever.
As a Special Forces Commander, Ethan Hyt is well aware his duty is to protect the Planetary Head of Defense, Velda Shanïha, but when their ship is shot down and they are taken prisoner, he finds it harder and harder to pretend he’s protecting Velda out of duty.
Velda knows that as Aponi’s Head of Defense, she’s a good bargaining chip for her enemies, and she’s hoping that fact will keep her and Ethan alive.
She and Ethan made a good team before, but their forced proximity has made their connection even stronger, and they’ll need each other to take every opportunity to get free.
Because if they don’t, Velda’s afraid they’re going to disappear forever.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 9, 2025
80 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Diener
54 books1,920 followersMichelle Diener is a bestselling, award-winning author of historical fiction, science fiction and fantasy. Having worked in publishing and IT, she's now very happy crafting new worlds and interesting characters.
Michelle was born in London and currently lives in Australia with her husband and two children.
When she's not writing, or driving her kids from activity to activity, you can find her online at Twitter and Facebook.
Michelle was born in London and currently lives in Australia with her husband and two children.
When she's not writing, or driving her kids from activity to activity, you can find her online at Twitter and Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 9, 2025
This is the eighth book in Diener’s Verdant String series. At the very least, you should read Book 7, Enthraller, before starting this book as it jumps right in focusing on side characters from Enthraller. The timelines overlap, too.
This penultimate book in the series includes many callbacks to all the previous books, so just go read all of them and thank me in the morning. I might also suggest a reread for fans, as the release of the VS series has been fairly spread out. But it’s all coming together, people!
Defender includes all the elements we love in Diener’s formula: 1) Brilliantly written action and adventure; 2) A mature romance that blends perfectly with the plot; 3) Stronger together love interests—with assistance from those mysterious magical silver balls; 4) Sympathetic characters, even the baddies, who all get names interestingly, which I love; 5) A universal addiction to coffee; and 6) The propensity of the MCs to take showers. (You read enough Michelle Diener, you start noticing things…)
Defender does have some issues. Our heroes find themselves needing to escape from three? four? different space ships that I lost track of whose ship they were on, who was in control of the ship, and whether that was good or bad. There are also stretches of extended exposition and info dumping between action sequences that are frequently and conveniently overheard by the heroes. (Like I said, you read enough Michelle Diener, you start noticing things…)
Overall, Defender is an exciting addition to Verdant String, while also propelling the overall arc of the series to an exciting conclusion in the next book. Brava and cheers!
I received an ARC of this book as a member of Diener’s Facebook Reader Group, and was able to suss out a few typos. Look for my name in the acknowledgments. #braggitybraggitybragbrag
This penultimate book in the series includes many callbacks to all the previous books, so just go read all of them and thank me in the morning. I might also suggest a reread for fans, as the release of the VS series has been fairly spread out. But it’s all coming together, people!
Defender includes all the elements we love in Diener’s formula: 1) Brilliantly written action and adventure; 2) A mature romance that blends perfectly with the plot; 3) Stronger together love interests—with assistance from those mysterious magical silver balls; 4) Sympathetic characters, even the baddies, who all get names interestingly, which I love; 5) A universal addiction to coffee; and 6) The propensity of the MCs to take showers. (You read enough Michelle Diener, you start noticing things…)
Defender does have some issues. Our heroes find themselves needing to escape from three? four? different space ships that I lost track of whose ship they were on, who was in control of the ship, and whether that was good or bad. There are also stretches of extended exposition and info dumping between action sequences that are frequently and conveniently overheard by the heroes. (Like I said, you read enough Michelle Diener, you start noticing things…)
Overall, Defender is an exciting addition to Verdant String, while also propelling the overall arc of the series to an exciting conclusion in the next book. Brava and cheers!
I received an ARC of this book as a member of Diener’s Facebook Reader Group, and was able to suss out a few typos. Look for my name in the acknowledgments. #braggitybraggitybragbrag
December 13, 2025
Enjoyed the story but it didn’t grab me quite like the previous couple of books have. It felt a bit slow going (but that is relative considering the action packed versions we are used to) through the first half. The second half was right up there with the best of them, though! I LOVE the gyr! Those little nanos are arguably the best part of the story! Any plotline with them in it is pure gold IMHO.
The only reason I didn’t up the four stars to at least 4.5 is that abrupt ending. I think it is the first time in memory that the author didn’t tie up the loose ends and give us a HFN. It is left pretty much open ended and they *Spoiler alert* didn’t even get back to where they were headed and still had no idea what was happening.
The only reason I didn’t up the four stars to at least 4.5 is that abrupt ending. I think it is the first time in memory that the author didn’t tie up the loose ends and give us a HFN. It is left pretty much open ended and they *Spoiler alert* didn’t even get back to where they were headed and still had no idea what was happening.
December 3, 2025
I liked this book. I liked it a lot! This can be read as a stand alone. But I would not suggest it. At least read Enthraller first. I liked it too. A lot.
The characters are well written. They could be real people not just thrown together to advance the story or carbon copies of characters used in earlier books. Each character from major ones to minor ones are unique and could have a story of their own. What I really like about the characters is that they are good and bad. Even the villains.
The story itself is exciting and kept me going when I should have put it down to do chores. What I liked most was that so much of it was not what I expected. The twists and turns were realistic and the outcomes were appropriate. It fit.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely with the caveat that once you read one of her books you’re going to find yourself going back to the beginning of this series of books. Then the Class 5 series. Then her other books. They are very addictive.
I received an ARC for my independent review.
The characters are well written. They could be real people not just thrown together to advance the story or carbon copies of characters used in earlier books. Each character from major ones to minor ones are unique and could have a story of their own. What I really like about the characters is that they are good and bad. Even the villains.
The story itself is exciting and kept me going when I should have put it down to do chores. What I liked most was that so much of it was not what I expected. The twists and turns were realistic and the outcomes were appropriate. It fit.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely with the caveat that once you read one of her books you’re going to find yourself going back to the beginning of this series of books. Then the Class 5 series. Then her other books. They are very addictive.
I received an ARC for my independent review.
December 16, 2025
Planetary Head of Defense, Velda Shani’ha and Special Forces Commander, Ethan Hyt are investigating the traitorous actions of planetary government members when their ship is shot down. They end up prisoners of the Core, but there are other groups in play and it takes Velda and Ethan time to sort out what is going on. They work together well, and there is definitely a special connection between them too. There is a lot of fighting, but all of the factions recognize the value of Velda as a bargaining chip, and she ends up being very good at negotiating with their captors. It was a very exciting and action-packed story, with great main characters. The secondary characters were all pretty bad, which made it easy to root for them to fail against the good guys. There were events that were described, which happened in previous books, that helped ground the story in the Verdant String world, as well as explaining where some of the current players fit in. That helped me get a better picture of what had been going on and how everything fit together. I believe there will be one more story in the series, which I am eagerly looking forward to reading, to see how it all turns out.
December 9, 2025
ARC Review
I loved it! Verdant String is my favourite series of Michelle Diener, because each novel is so different. What links them are these amazing Silver Balls, but they are manifested in different ways in each of the novels, to the point where each book could be read independently, even this one. Broadly speaking this Science Fiction Romantic Suspense, but one book had monsters, another had aquatic creatures and a Surfing Beach Feel to it, yet another had a sophisticated espionage feel where architecture ruled.
I really love this series and was very disappointed to read that the final novel was coming next. Surely, surely there can be more for Verdant String? This is a series with a difference, where even though I have read the other 6 in order, the only things they really have in common is the location of the planets of Verdant String, and the technology of the Silver Balls, oh and the villianous Cores Group. Each have different characters and run the gamut from planetary leadership, to refugees, to soldiers and scientists.
I loved it! Verdant String is my favourite series of Michelle Diener, because each novel is so different. What links them are these amazing Silver Balls, but they are manifested in different ways in each of the novels, to the point where each book could be read independently, even this one. Broadly speaking this Science Fiction Romantic Suspense, but one book had monsters, another had aquatic creatures and a Surfing Beach Feel to it, yet another had a sophisticated espionage feel where architecture ruled.
I really love this series and was very disappointed to read that the final novel was coming next. Surely, surely there can be more for Verdant String? This is a series with a difference, where even though I have read the other 6 in order, the only things they really have in common is the location of the planets of Verdant String, and the technology of the Silver Balls, oh and the villianous Cores Group. Each have different characters and run the gamut from planetary leadership, to refugees, to soldiers and scientists.
December 20, 2025
I enjoyed it! the beginning was a bit slow, but the rest of the story made up for it! The ending leads into the next book.
December 27, 2025
Review to come.
December 11, 2025
3.5 stars
This was the book #8 in the Verdant String series. It started slowly, but then picked up speed and didn't let go till the end. Ostensibly, it is a sci-fi adventure romance, but the romance thread is weak. I didn't feel any chemistry between the protagonists.
On the other hand, the sci-fi adventure thread is strong. The hero and heroine are hurled from one calamity to another almost without stop. They come on top every single time, and then something else happens to plunge them even deeper into troubles.
The plot is quick and engaging, the science non-existent, the characters capable and sympathetic, and the writing professional. My only complaint is that the book ended on a cliffhanger. And the next book will only come out later the next year. I hate cliffhangers, but I'm too involved in this series to abandon it now. I'll wait for the next novel, of course, because I want to know how the story continues. I want to experience catharsis at the triumphant resolution of all the heroes' issues.
This was the book #8 in the Verdant String series. It started slowly, but then picked up speed and didn't let go till the end. Ostensibly, it is a sci-fi adventure romance, but the romance thread is weak. I didn't feel any chemistry between the protagonists.
On the other hand, the sci-fi adventure thread is strong. The hero and heroine are hurled from one calamity to another almost without stop. They come on top every single time, and then something else happens to plunge them even deeper into troubles.
The plot is quick and engaging, the science non-existent, the characters capable and sympathetic, and the writing professional. My only complaint is that the book ended on a cliffhanger. And the next book will only come out later the next year. I hate cliffhangers, but I'm too involved in this series to abandon it now. I'll wait for the next novel, of course, because I want to know how the story continues. I want to experience catharsis at the triumphant resolution of all the heroes' issues.
December 31, 2025
I adored this addition to the Verdant String series. If you haven’t read anything else in the series before this, I recommend you start at the beginning. There’s just too much information you’ll need plus you’ll have a wonderful time catching up! I’m always so sad when I finish a book my this author because I’m so immersed in the story and hate to wait for the next addition. I’m spoiled by her writing and world building. I’m going to re-read this entire series again from the beginning because I can’t get enough. Then I’ll either go to the Class 5 series and start at Dark Horse or go to the Rising Wave series. Or any of her series are wonderful! Michelle Diener will always be one of the authors whose books I buy without even reading a synopsis. She’s just that good!
December 13, 2025
Great romantic sci fi adventure
The worldbuilding remains fascinating, Velda and Ethan are engaging characters, and the nanotech continues to enchant me. The ending is abrupt and a bit of a cliffhanger, but Velda and Ethan are safe and at a logical break point. I'm disappointed by the announcement that book 9 will be the last book in the series, since I have thoroughly enjoyed all the Verdant String books.
The worldbuilding remains fascinating, Velda and Ethan are engaging characters, and the nanotech continues to enchant me. The ending is abrupt and a bit of a cliffhanger, but Velda and Ethan are safe and at a logical break point. I'm disappointed by the announcement that book 9 will be the last book in the series, since I have thoroughly enjoyed all the Verdant String books.
December 18, 2025
Another Brilliant Instalment in a Favourite Series
This is a pretty good addition to one of my favourite series! The first part of the book is set against the backdrop of the end of Enthraller (Book 7), but from a completely different angle, and it's done pretty well.
The pacing is non-stop: action, tension and forward momentum from the very first pages. I love the gentle natural reminders of past events woven into conversations. I really appreciate the "show, not tell" writing style.
There’s a lot happening in this book, and it all feels meaningful. The stakes continue to rise, and we finally get a look at the Corps' true agendas, their motivations and the wider implications for the VSC.
It pulled everything into sharper focus while still left plenty of mystery dangling. I can't wait for the final book - this set-up is fantastic.
This is a pretty good addition to one of my favourite series! The first part of the book is set against the backdrop of the end of Enthraller (Book 7), but from a completely different angle, and it's done pretty well.
The pacing is non-stop: action, tension and forward momentum from the very first pages. I love the gentle natural reminders of past events woven into conversations. I really appreciate the "show, not tell" writing style.
There’s a lot happening in this book, and it all feels meaningful. The stakes continue to rise, and we finally get a look at the Corps' true agendas, their motivations and the wider implications for the VSC.
It pulled everything into sharper focus while still left plenty of mystery dangling. I can't wait for the final book - this set-up is fantastic.
December 12, 2025
I normally really enjoy Michelle Diener's books, but this particular Verdant String short book did not grab me the way they usually do. This is a sci fi with light romantic elements. Readers should at least have read Book 7, Enthraller, before starting this book (Enthraller review https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...). Defender is closely tied to the previous book, Enthraller, and the timelines closely align with side characters from Enthraller featured here.
I do enjoy reading about the overarching evil space corporation that is exploiting many of the Verdant String planets. They are fun to hate on. Our hero and heroine are mature adults unexpected thrown together to resist the evil overlords, with some instalust thrown in. Although they are both competent individuals in their livelihoods, they are captured and recaptured here over and over again, which gets a bit tedious. One of the "grey" characters (not truly good or evil) is the daughter of a nasty pirate who is intermittently detaining our hero and heroine. I find her awfully wearing, and I got tired of seeing her.
Apparently this is the second to last book in the series. I'm excited to see how Diener will wrap this up. While it's getting easier to find Sci Fi romance, I still don't care for many of the offerings in this genre, and Diener is a pretty dependable author for me. I'm excited to see how she ties this arc up!
I received an ARC from the author for review. My opinions are my own. Normally I would post my review on my Amazon website, but Amazon has inactivated my account because I haven't purchased more than $50 in the last 6 months (how annoying), so I'm only posting the review here at Goodreads at this time.
I do enjoy reading about the overarching evil space corporation that is exploiting many of the Verdant String planets. They are fun to hate on. Our hero and heroine are mature adults unexpected thrown together to resist the evil overlords, with some instalust thrown in. Although they are both competent individuals in their livelihoods, they are captured and recaptured here over and over again, which gets a bit tedious. One of the "grey" characters (not truly good or evil) is the daughter of a nasty pirate who is intermittently detaining our hero and heroine. I find her awfully wearing, and I got tired of seeing her.
Apparently this is the second to last book in the series. I'm excited to see how Diener will wrap this up. While it's getting easier to find Sci Fi romance, I still don't care for many of the offerings in this genre, and Diener is a pretty dependable author for me. I'm excited to see how she ties this arc up!
I received an ARC from the author for review. My opinions are my own. Normally I would post my review on my Amazon website, but Amazon has inactivated my account because I haven't purchased more than $50 in the last 6 months (how annoying), so I'm only posting the review here at Goodreads at this time.
December 17, 2025
4 Stars
‘The seven planets of the Verdant String, the green, fecund sources of life spanning five solar systems, comprise the Verdant String Coalition. While the people of the Verdant String know they have a common ancestor, a group of explorers who colonised the planets at the same time a thousand or more years ago, the mysteries of who they were, and where they came from, persist.’
Defender is Book #8 in The Verdant String series by Michelle Diener. I have really enjoyed exploring this series which is made up of captivating science fiction, romance, and adventure, all set against the lush and imaginative backdrop of seven life-rich planets, spanning five solar systems. The worldbuilding is one of its strongest elements - each planet feels distinct, with its own culture, politics, and environmental challenges, making the Coalition setting feel alive and interconnected.
A series highlight is the balance between high-stakes action and heartfelt character development. Ms. Diener’s protagonists are resourceful, intelligent, and emotionally layered, often navigating both interplanetary intrigue and deep, personal relationships. The romance elements are woven seamlessly into the plot, never overshadowing the sci-fi core but instead enriching it.
Throughout it all there is a sense of optimism and resilience. Even amid danger, there’s a thread of hope, cooperation, and respect for diversity - both human and alien.
If you enjoy richly imagined space settings, strong and capable leads, and a perfect mix of romance and adventure, then you should jump on board for a rewarding journey through the stars.
Happy Reading…
‘The seven planets of the Verdant String, the green, fecund sources of life spanning five solar systems, comprise the Verdant String Coalition. While the people of the Verdant String know they have a common ancestor, a group of explorers who colonised the planets at the same time a thousand or more years ago, the mysteries of who they were, and where they came from, persist.’
Defender is Book #8 in The Verdant String series by Michelle Diener. I have really enjoyed exploring this series which is made up of captivating science fiction, romance, and adventure, all set against the lush and imaginative backdrop of seven life-rich planets, spanning five solar systems. The worldbuilding is one of its strongest elements - each planet feels distinct, with its own culture, politics, and environmental challenges, making the Coalition setting feel alive and interconnected.
A series highlight is the balance between high-stakes action and heartfelt character development. Ms. Diener’s protagonists are resourceful, intelligent, and emotionally layered, often navigating both interplanetary intrigue and deep, personal relationships. The romance elements are woven seamlessly into the plot, never overshadowing the sci-fi core but instead enriching it.
Throughout it all there is a sense of optimism and resilience. Even amid danger, there’s a thread of hope, cooperation, and respect for diversity - both human and alien.
If you enjoy richly imagined space settings, strong and capable leads, and a perfect mix of romance and adventure, then you should jump on board for a rewarding journey through the stars.
Happy Reading…
December 15, 2025
Defender continues the Verdant String series with exciting momentum, carrying the story forward seamlessly from Enthraller (Book 7). Michelle Diener once again proves why this series stands out, delivering a plot that is fast-paced, layered, and genuinely unpredictable.
This instalment centres on the pairing of Velda Shanïha and Ethan Hyt, and their dynamic adds both emotional depth and tension to the story. The novel works as much as a psychological thriller as it does an action-driven adventure, blending high stakes with character-focused intensity in true Michelle Diener style.
One of the greatest joys of reading Michelle Diener’s work is her refusal to rely on formula. Just when you think you understand where the story is heading, it takes an unexpected turn. Defender is full of these moments, keeping the reader engaged and slightly off-balance in the best possible way. The pacing is tight, the action well executed, and the psychological elements add an extra layer of suspense throughout.
The ending genuinely surprised me and feels clearly designed to set up the finale of the series — one I am now eagerly anticipating. Defender is a strong continuation of the Verdant String series and a reminder of why Michelle Diener remains such a compelling storyteller.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This instalment centres on the pairing of Velda Shanïha and Ethan Hyt, and their dynamic adds both emotional depth and tension to the story. The novel works as much as a psychological thriller as it does an action-driven adventure, blending high stakes with character-focused intensity in true Michelle Diener style.
One of the greatest joys of reading Michelle Diener’s work is her refusal to rely on formula. Just when you think you understand where the story is heading, it takes an unexpected turn. Defender is full of these moments, keeping the reader engaged and slightly off-balance in the best possible way. The pacing is tight, the action well executed, and the psychological elements add an extra layer of suspense throughout.
The ending genuinely surprised me and feels clearly designed to set up the finale of the series — one I am now eagerly anticipating. Defender is a strong continuation of the Verdant String series and a reminder of why Michelle Diener remains such a compelling storyteller.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2025
Defender picks up one of the dangling threads from the previous novel in the series Enthraller – what happened to Special Forces Captain Ethan and Head of Planetary Defence Velda – and runs with it.
We have some early overlap in the time-line with Enthraller but see a different set of events from a new perspective as we are taken on a wild ride with Ethan & Velda as they are attacked, evade the enemy and are captured by turn.
Defender includes all the elements I have come to expect from Michelle Diener’s work, action, adventure, romance and great characters. We also get to find out a bit more about our villains which was fascinating and it is leading to what promises to be a very exciting final book.
It does have a minor issue that kept it from being a five star for me – that was the ending felt incomplete. It was clearly setting things up to bring together elements from previous books into the final book and while not a total cliffhanger, it did feel to me like it left Ethan & Velda’s story not entirely resolved.
I am both excited and sad for the next book as it will be great to read the conclusion but I also don’t want this series to end.
I received and ARC from the author but all view expressed are my own
We have some early overlap in the time-line with Enthraller but see a different set of events from a new perspective as we are taken on a wild ride with Ethan & Velda as they are attacked, evade the enemy and are captured by turn.
Defender includes all the elements I have come to expect from Michelle Diener’s work, action, adventure, romance and great characters. We also get to find out a bit more about our villains which was fascinating and it is leading to what promises to be a very exciting final book.
It does have a minor issue that kept it from being a five star for me – that was the ending felt incomplete. It was clearly setting things up to bring together elements from previous books into the final book and while not a total cliffhanger, it did feel to me like it left Ethan & Velda’s story not entirely resolved.
I am both excited and sad for the next book as it will be great to read the conclusion but I also don’t want this series to end.
I received and ARC from the author but all view expressed are my own
December 13, 2025
In this eighth book of the Verdant String series, Special Forces Commander Ethan Hyt takes his duty very seriously protecting the Planetary Head of Defense, Velda Shaniha; however, he has more of an agenda than just his job. Ethan has been waiting to take their relationship to a more personal level. While on a mission, their ship is attacked leaving them on the ground defenseless. While trying to get back to the city, they are taken prisoner, eventually multiple times by linked nefarious forces.
Two of the VSC enemies seemed to have formed an uneasy alliance; both of which see Velda as a useful tool to achieve their goals. Ethan and Velda spend quite a bit of time trying to escape and figure out which bad guys are ultimately in control as well as trying to foment a rebellion within the enemy forces. The ancient nanotech utilized in the previous books aids Ethan and Velda by enhancing certain of their abilities making manipulation and escape a greater possibility.
Ethan and Velda’s story is the penultimate book in the series which will resolve the overall arc in the next and final book.
December 31, 2025
This is the eight book in the Verdant String series by Michelle Diener. All of the previous books could be read as stand-alones with the story enriched by having read the other books first. However, this book is the story of two side characters from the previous book, ‘Enthraller’, and often has oblique references to incidents that happened previously. I would definitely recommend reading ‘Enthraller’ before this book.
That being said, I have to admit that I use every new book in this series as an excuse to re-read the whole thing again. I love this series! So, I’m not sure if ‘Defender’ could be read as a stand-alone since I’m too vested in the whole world Michelle Diener has built.
‘Defender’ is still on the Verdant String world of Aponi. The main characters, Ethan and Velda, are shot down on their way back to the main city. This is the story of them trying to get back. You learn more about the people trying to hijack ancient technology and what their end game might be. Good story but it’s hard to wait for the next book
That being said, I have to admit that I use every new book in this series as an excuse to re-read the whole thing again. I love this series! So, I’m not sure if ‘Defender’ could be read as a stand-alone since I’m too vested in the whole world Michelle Diener has built.
‘Defender’ is still on the Verdant String world of Aponi. The main characters, Ethan and Velda, are shot down on their way back to the main city. This is the story of them trying to get back. You learn more about the people trying to hijack ancient technology and what their end game might be. Good story but it’s hard to wait for the next book
December 8, 2025
This series has a richly developed world that always delivers a high-action adventure with all the things we love about science fiction with a little romance for fun. The main characters Ethan and Velda have both avoided starting anything with each other because she is his boss, but when the enemy trying to take over their home planet downs their transport they are forced into close proximity and have to run for their lives.
There are high tech devices, aliens, strange new abilities and an almost absurd number of kidnappings. The plot keeps coming keeping things exciting from beginning to end.
The book unfortunately does end without a complete resolution for the story, basically a cliffhanger with the reader not knowing how things will work out for our heroes. I always prefer to know that going into a book, so here’s your warning.
There are high tech devices, aliens, strange new abilities and an almost absurd number of kidnappings. The plot keeps coming keeping things exciting from beginning to end.
The book unfortunately does end without a complete resolution for the story, basically a cliffhanger with the reader not knowing how things will work out for our heroes. I always prefer to know that going into a book, so here’s your warning.
December 31, 2025
This addition to the series is truly wonderful! I suggest reading the books in order because the storylines and characters are deeply connected, which really enhances your understanding and enjoyment. But don't worry if you haven't read the previous books—Michelle does a great job of summarizing enough so you can still enjoy the story. Velda and Ethan are such an engaging couple; their chemistry draws you in and makes you eager to see what happens next. Their teamwork and ability to seem like they can read each other's minds are truly impressive. Plus, their telepathic communication, which started after the experiments, works seamlessly for them. The plot is exciting, the characters feel real, and the action stays steady throughout. If you're a fan of Michelle Diener's books, you're definitely going to love this new one, and I highly recommend it!
December 3, 2025
I love the Verdant string series so I was thrilled to get my hands on an ARC and it did not disappoint. I loved Ethan and Velda, and their action packed story.
I would not recommend reading this one before you have checked out the previous books in this series. There are so many threads to the overarching plots that were brought together in preparation for the next (final book) and you cannot fully appreciate them if you don’t have some knowledge of what has been happening in this universe. Also the previous books in this series are just as entertaining and worth a read so that’s just a bonus!
I would label this sci fi with a touch of romance.
Arc provided in return for an honest review.
I would not recommend reading this one before you have checked out the previous books in this series. There are so many threads to the overarching plots that were brought together in preparation for the next (final book) and you cannot fully appreciate them if you don’t have some knowledge of what has been happening in this universe. Also the previous books in this series are just as entertaining and worth a read so that’s just a bonus!
I would label this sci fi with a touch of romance.
Arc provided in return for an honest review.
December 2, 2025
My absolute favorite author is Michelle Diener. I have read every single one of her books, some of them more than once. So when she announces a new book, I immediately queue it up and read it. It never disappoints. Clear, flowing prose and exciting action, with a little romance thrown in as spice, there is something magical about it no matter what the genre. She includes historical and contemporary in with her sci-fi, and I eat up all of them.
Defender, her newest, lives up to her promise, and I loved it. Like dark chocolate to chocolate lovers, I had to savor it. I only wish she did nothing else in life but write, so I would have even more to read!!I can hardly wait for the next one!
Defender, her newest, lives up to her promise, and I loved it. Like dark chocolate to chocolate lovers, I had to savor it. I only wish she did nothing else in life but write, so I would have even more to read!!I can hardly wait for the next one!
December 9, 2025
Defender is the 8th book in the Verdant String series. Velda and Ethan are colleagues that are interested in each other but have been cautious since they work together. However, they are thrown together when a plot to takeover their planet of Aponi comes to a head and results in their ship being targeted and crashing. Velda and Ethan find themselves on the run and look for ways to survive and find a way home. The romance is secondary to the story of a found planet, surviving the opponents of the Verdant String and the ancient technology. This was a solid addition to the series and it should be read after the prior book, Enthraller.
This review is based on the ARC addition.
This review is based on the ARC addition.
December 10, 2025
Defender
In the Verdant String series, Velda and Ethan's narrative transcends traditional storytelling, weaving an intricate tapestry of heart-racing action and profound emotional depth. With masterful precision, the author crafts characters so vivid and a world so immersive that readers are transported beyond the boundaries of conventional fiction. This extraordinary saga is not merely a story, but a transformative odyssey that will captivate and challenge even the most sophisticated literary palates. An absolute must-read that promises to redefine the boundaries of speculative fiction.
In the Verdant String series, Velda and Ethan's narrative transcends traditional storytelling, weaving an intricate tapestry of heart-racing action and profound emotional depth. With masterful precision, the author crafts characters so vivid and a world so immersive that readers are transported beyond the boundaries of conventional fiction. This extraordinary saga is not merely a story, but a transformative odyssey that will captivate and challenge even the most sophisticated literary palates. An absolute must-read that promises to redefine the boundaries of speculative fiction.
December 21, 2025
I have thoroughly enjoyed each Verdant String book and this is no exception. Each book has stood alone as an amazing read, but reading the series in order, ramps up the excitement to a whole new level. Defender, like each book, has a satisfying ending for the hero and heroine. Now that the series is wrapping up, one more book to go, the author is tying up all the loose ends and connecting all the dots. Now that I have raved about the series, I get specific to this book. There is so much suspense, action, romance (no described sex scenes), humor, and a wonderful story that keeps you turning pages to find out what happens next.
December 16, 2025
Very enjoyable series
Every book in this series is quite different from the previous. I love the fact that the author keeps this fresh.
The heroines are not looking to get rescued, they are looking for a partner in adventure. The heros are strong but don't need to be alphaholes.
Defender is able to be ready as a standalone but moves the overall story along. Lots of action - I read almost all of it in one sitting and didn't notice the time. My one quibble is that the ending felt a little rushed but I have a feeling this is just going to roll into the next book.
Every book in this series is quite different from the previous. I love the fact that the author keeps this fresh.
The heroines are not looking to get rescued, they are looking for a partner in adventure. The heros are strong but don't need to be alphaholes.
Defender is able to be ready as a standalone but moves the overall story along. Lots of action - I read almost all of it in one sitting and didn't notice the time. My one quibble is that the ending felt a little rushed but I have a feeling this is just going to roll into the next book.
December 26, 2025
I’ve been patiently waiting for this book and it did not disappoint. This was a great addition to the Verdant String series and I’m sad that the next book will be the last. I’m wondering if all the previous characters that now host the nanotech will finally meet up. Velda and Ethan made a great team and while the romance took off at quite a quick pace, I liked them as a couple. Defender was an adventure from start to finish and if you’re a fan of the series you won’t want to miss this book.
December 2, 2025
I got an ARC of this book and Michelle's Diener never let's me down.
I loved this story between Velda and Ethan! I wondered what happened to them in ENTHRALLER so was extra happy to find out in Defender. It's a sci-fi adventure and political thriller in one short story that had me reading in every spare moment over 24 hrs.
I'm excited to read what happens next for Velda and Ethan.
I loved this story between Velda and Ethan! I wondered what happened to them in ENTHRALLER so was extra happy to find out in Defender. It's a sci-fi adventure and political thriller in one short story that had me reading in every spare moment over 24 hrs.
I'm excited to read what happens next for Velda and Ethan.
December 9, 2025
it’s all coming together…
Another great adventure from Diener in the Verdant String series. We meet some of the puppet masters pulling the strings behind the scenes, and we get several satisfying fight scenes, in addition to getting to know a smart and charismatic new couple. I love when a plan comes together! Looking forward to the last book in the series!
Another great adventure from Diener in the Verdant String series. We meet some of the puppet masters pulling the strings behind the scenes, and we get several satisfying fight scenes, in addition to getting to know a smart and charismatic new couple. I love when a plan comes together! Looking forward to the last book in the series!
December 9, 2025
This is another five star read from Michelle Diener. High packed action with a touch of romance makes this a welcome addition to this series. The characters pulled me into the story and I could not stop reading it. I think Michelle is one of the best authors in this genre. Download and enjoy❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
December 16, 2025
I loved this series, but this story fell flat. No originality. It was just them trying to get out from being captured for the entire book! It’s been awhile since the last books so the references to others from previous books leaves you lost. Also this book doesn’t really have an ending, it just leaves you hanging.
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