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Darksoul #1
Sūnder
If Sūnder Alārd was born female he would have been cherished for being faeborn—born with magick—and his birth celebrated. Instead, his L’fÿn mother insisted on his death. Only his Panthrÿn father’s desperate escape through the forest saved him.
With most Chándariāns uneasy in his presence due to rumors he is doomed to become a darksoul, and unlikely to find a mate because of it, Sūnder has nevertheless carved out an honorable existence as a warrior and commander. Serving as a bodyguard and chaperone, Sūnder accompanies the Chándariān prince to the annual mating festival on Earth, and when the prince is injured, he can’t help but be fascinated by the tongue-tied nurse who attends them at the hospital.
At sixteen years of age, Gabriel St. Baptista came home to discover his parents had taken off into space, leaving him behind to look after himself. Gabe never recovered from the unexpected desertion, and keeps everyone at arm’s length to avoid the pain of being abandoned again. However, after meeting Sūnder, Gabe finds himself unable to resist the bond between them and breaks his carefully crafted rules to spend time with the Chándariāns, regardless of the fact that Sūnder will soon leave. Scared by what he feels for Sūnder, Gabe can only hope his heart won’t be too broken when Sūnder returns to Chándaria.
But deceit and treachery surrounds them both, and when Gabe saves Sūnder’s life, it sets off a chain of events that could either tear Gabe and Sūnder apart… or give them both exactly what they want.
*Sūnder is a 120,000 word standalone with a HEA ending.
With most Chándariāns uneasy in his presence due to rumors he is doomed to become a darksoul, and unlikely to find a mate because of it, Sūnder has nevertheless carved out an honorable existence as a warrior and commander. Serving as a bodyguard and chaperone, Sūnder accompanies the Chándariān prince to the annual mating festival on Earth, and when the prince is injured, he can’t help but be fascinated by the tongue-tied nurse who attends them at the hospital.
At sixteen years of age, Gabriel St. Baptista came home to discover his parents had taken off into space, leaving him behind to look after himself. Gabe never recovered from the unexpected desertion, and keeps everyone at arm’s length to avoid the pain of being abandoned again. However, after meeting Sūnder, Gabe finds himself unable to resist the bond between them and breaks his carefully crafted rules to spend time with the Chándariāns, regardless of the fact that Sūnder will soon leave. Scared by what he feels for Sūnder, Gabe can only hope his heart won’t be too broken when Sūnder returns to Chándaria.
But deceit and treachery surrounds them both, and when Gabe saves Sūnder’s life, it sets off a chain of events that could either tear Gabe and Sūnder apart… or give them both exactly what they want.
*Sūnder is a 120,000 word standalone with a HEA ending.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2015
51 people are currently reading
478 people want to read
About the author
Lexi Ander
36 books453 followersLexi has always been an avid reader and at a young age started reading (secretly) her mother’s romances (the ones she was told not to touch). She was the only teenager she knew of who would be grounded from reading. Later, with a pencil and a note book, she wrote her own stories and shared them with friends because she loved to see their reactions. A Texas transplant, Lexi now kicks her boots up in the Midwest with her Yankee husband and her 80 pound puppies named after vacuum cleaners.
Website: http://www.lexiander.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lexi.ander.9
Blog: http://lexiander.blogspot.com/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/LexiAnder1
Email: lexi.ander.author@gmail.com
Website: http://www.lexiander.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lexi.ander.9
Blog: http://lexiander.blogspot.com/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/LexiAnder1
Email: lexi.ander.author@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
August 1, 2023
Reread July 2023
I don't know how many times I can say it or write it, but I love this book.
Reread October 2020
This is still one of my favorite books by Lexi.
Reread October 2018
I love these two so much. I can't wait for more in this series.
Reread May 2018
Oh how I love this book! I know I will reread it many times. I love Lexi Ander's writing and the worlds she creates. Her heroes are so swoony and my heart melts every time. I hope she continues this series soon. There are so many side characters who need books. Plus, I just want more of Gabe and Sūnder.
Originally read October 2017
**5++ Stars**
Almost killed at birth by his mother's people due to a 500 year old superstition and prejudice, Sūnder is quickly snatched away by his father and taken to his home. He is adopted and raised by his aunt due to the accord between his father's and mother's people that he can never be claimed as the heir to the throne. Sūnder grows to be the highest commander and has more than proven his worth and value but he still feels lacking. Lacking in family and love. On a trip to Earth for the mating festival, Sūnder rushes his cousin to the hospital where he meets beautiful nurse, Gabe. Instantly attracted to each other, he sets out to woo Gabe as his mate. But there are others who still want Sūnder dead and will stop at nothing to make it happen and in turn, starting a war and destruction of a world. Can the two survive and get the HEA they each deserve?
I found this book on Amazon by clicking on one book, then another and saw it in the similar books section. The cover caught my eye. I’m a sucker for sci-fi romance. From page one, this book grabbed me. I was a little confused at first with all the different races and who was who, but I caught on and couldn't put it down. I would classify this as a sci-fi/fantasy book. Sci-fi in that Earth now houses different species from different planets with “future” technology, but also fantasy in a lot of these people remind you of fae, druids and use magic. Add in that it's MM, and it is right up my alley.
Sūnder...oh man, he was amazing. My heart broke for him but he amazed me that he was such a caring and giving person. He was so swoon-worthy. The things he said to Gabe made my heart melt into a puddle of goo.
But not only him. Gabe was just as amazing and swoon-worthy. He had been holding himself back from previous relationships due to abandonment issues. But with Sūnder, he let himself go and become who Sūnder needed. Not only that, he would love and protect Sūnder with all his heart and soul.
I loved every aspect of the romance between these two. But there was so much more going on in this book. There was also another love story brewing and we get a little glimpse of that which hopefully leads to another book. There's betrayal, espionage, plots of murder of peoples, greed, world pollution, prejudices, superstition, ignorance…I could go on and on but this is just one of those books that is best experienced. If you are a lover of sci-fi/fantasy romance, I highly recommend reading this book.
My only complaint would be there are a lot of different species/peoples/names introduced. And these are not simple names like Tom, Dick and Harry. It got confusing at times. There is a glossary in the back which helps but it’s kind of hard to flip back and forth and kind of took me out of “the moment” of the book. Mostly I just prodded along and looked at the end.
This is by far, one of the best books I’ve read this year and that’s saying a lot because I’ve read a bunch of great ones. This will definitely be on my reread shelf and I can't wait for more in this series. I'll be checking out Lexi Ander's other works as well.
**PS...Don't let the mpreg shelf scare you. This is a very different take on that...no men "birthing" babies here...
I don't know how many times I can say it or write it, but I love this book.
Reread October 2020
This is still one of my favorite books by Lexi.
Reread October 2018
I love these two so much. I can't wait for more in this series.
Reread May 2018
Oh how I love this book! I know I will reread it many times. I love Lexi Ander's writing and the worlds she creates. Her heroes are so swoony and my heart melts every time. I hope she continues this series soon. There are so many side characters who need books. Plus, I just want more of Gabe and Sūnder.
“I thought I knew what love was until I met you. Now, I wake up every day more in love with you than the day before.”~Gabe
“Your scent… I want you to be mine, only mine.”~Sūnder
Originally read October 2017
**5++ Stars**
Almost killed at birth by his mother's people due to a 500 year old superstition and prejudice, Sūnder is quickly snatched away by his father and taken to his home. He is adopted and raised by his aunt due to the accord between his father's and mother's people that he can never be claimed as the heir to the throne. Sūnder grows to be the highest commander and has more than proven his worth and value but he still feels lacking. Lacking in family and love. On a trip to Earth for the mating festival, Sūnder rushes his cousin to the hospital where he meets beautiful nurse, Gabe. Instantly attracted to each other, he sets out to woo Gabe as his mate. But there are others who still want Sūnder dead and will stop at nothing to make it happen and in turn, starting a war and destruction of a world. Can the two survive and get the HEA they each deserve?
I found this book on Amazon by clicking on one book, then another and saw it in the similar books section. The cover caught my eye. I’m a sucker for sci-fi romance. From page one, this book grabbed me. I was a little confused at first with all the different races and who was who, but I caught on and couldn't put it down. I would classify this as a sci-fi/fantasy book. Sci-fi in that Earth now houses different species from different planets with “future” technology, but also fantasy in a lot of these people remind you of fae, druids and use magic. Add in that it's MM, and it is right up my alley.
Sūnder...oh man, he was amazing. My heart broke for him but he amazed me that he was such a caring and giving person. He was so swoon-worthy. The things he said to Gabe made my heart melt into a puddle of goo.
“I thought I could be patient and woo you. Court you, go as slow as you wanted. I want to be your friend and your lover, your mate of choice, but I’ve found I’m not that strong.”~ Sūnder
But not only him. Gabe was just as amazing and swoon-worthy. He had been holding himself back from previous relationships due to abandonment issues. But with Sūnder, he let himself go and become who Sūnder needed. Not only that, he would love and protect Sūnder with all his heart and soul.
“How do I explain it other than to say you make me feel alive, as if I had been walking through the world half asleep until you came along? I don’t want to go back to who I was before if it means being without you.”~Gabe
I loved every aspect of the romance between these two. But there was so much more going on in this book. There was also another love story brewing and we get a little glimpse of that which hopefully leads to another book. There's betrayal, espionage, plots of murder of peoples, greed, world pollution, prejudices, superstition, ignorance…I could go on and on but this is just one of those books that is best experienced. If you are a lover of sci-fi/fantasy romance, I highly recommend reading this book.
My only complaint would be there are a lot of different species/peoples/names introduced. And these are not simple names like Tom, Dick and Harry. It got confusing at times. There is a glossary in the back which helps but it’s kind of hard to flip back and forth and kind of took me out of “the moment” of the book. Mostly I just prodded along and looked at the end.
This is by far, one of the best books I’ve read this year and that’s saying a lot because I’ve read a bunch of great ones. This will definitely be on my reread shelf and I can't wait for more in this series. I'll be checking out Lexi Ander's other works as well.
"There was only one suitable response to the love in Gabe’s voice. Sūnder covered Gabe’s mouth with his own, sealing their vows for evermore."
**PS...Don't let the mpreg shelf scare you. This is a very different take on that...no men "birthing" babies here...
September 12, 2017
There was a lot going on in this story, lots of different characters and their povs, lots of different situations, lots of world building and a lot of history that somehow comes all together. This is definitely a book where the MCs share the spot light with the secondary characters.
I can’t tell if it was me or if part of the story telling was a bit scattered (most likely it was me), but keeping up with the different species with special gifts and purposes and how they tied in to each other was a challenge at first. I normally don’t care for repetitiveness in a story, but in this case, I was grateful for it. I didn’t have to resort to constant backtracking or referring to the glossary to understand what was what and who was who.
This book has a sweet and loving couple, loveable secondary characters, lots of action, decent steam, and interesting revelations.
I’ve had a couple of Lexi Ander's books on my ever growing wtrl for awhile. If this book is a good example of what I can expect, then I look forward to reading the others.
I can’t tell if it was me or if part of the story telling was a bit scattered (most likely it was me), but keeping up with the different species with special gifts and purposes and how they tied in to each other was a challenge at first. I normally don’t care for repetitiveness in a story, but in this case, I was grateful for it. I didn’t have to resort to constant backtracking or referring to the glossary to understand what was what and who was who.
This book has a sweet and loving couple, loveable secondary characters, lots of action, decent steam, and interesting revelations.
I’ve had a couple of Lexi Ander's books on my ever growing wtrl for awhile. If this book is a good example of what I can expect, then I look forward to reading the others.
May 28, 2018
Loved this one. Sunder is amazing and I loved seeing Gabe come into his own. The world building is fantastic. Can’t wait for the next in the series.
June 18, 2020
"Sūnder trembled under his touch, his face pressed to Gabe’s skin. “I thought I could be patient and woo you. Court you, go as slow as you wanted. I want to be your friend and your lover, your mate of choice, but I’ve found I’m not that strong. I want you for my mate, Gabe."
I loved this story when it was first written as Darksoul: Part One as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love is an Open Road" event. Back then it was unfinished (hence the "part one") and I was so hoping for the next part. Luckily, Lexi Ander has now revised and expanded Darksoul to create the whole and complete story of Sūnder and Gabe in Sūnder (Dark Soul #1).
The world this story is set in is incredibly fleshed out and proves just how great Ander is at creating whole universes for her stories which are unique and interesting.
I really loved Sūnder and Gabe, both individually and as a couple. The two of them were each strong and vulnerable in different ways, and I loved seeing both of them taking care of one another instead of the usual one alpha protecting and taking the lead. Sūnder and Gabe play so well off of each other and really complement one another.
The side characters in this story were also well done and, at times, stole the show for a chapter or two (I'm looking at you Ronan and Akirá!). I also really loved Sūnder's family and how much they cared for one another in spite of the shitty circumstances thrown at them.
This book is listed as "Darksoul #1" so I'm really looking forward to more of this series. While Sūnder and Gabe's story is wrapped up in this book, the consequences of the ending definitely leave room for more. I'd love to read a book about A’yrē getting his own love. Hell, I'd take a book with Valiant finding someone who actually isn't shitty and sticks around.
So, I was debating on whether or not to tag this as
Overall, another great story from Lexi Ander! Those who read the original will be beyond pleased at how this has been expanded and revised to make the characters and plot even better than before. And for people who never read the unfinished original: what are you waiting for??? Start Sūnder ASAP and read about this wonderful couple!!
5 Stars
July 1, 2018
About a thousand years in Earth’s future, a lot has changed due to the discovery of several alien species, and yet the world Lexi Ander has created for this exciting new series has more in common with today’s than I first suspected. Yes, there are multiple alien species, their varied societies and cultures, and lots of intergalactic politics. But there are also environmental issues on a larger scale than we see today, power-hungry despots ruthlessly following their goals, and interpersonal and family problems we are very familiar with in the 21st century. The story is told mainly by Sūnder, a Chándariān male faeborn with magick that makes him an outcast in some people’s eyes, and Gabe, a dedicated human nurse who has no idea about his true heritage. Others very occasionally chime in as well, and this makes for an intricately woven tale that starts with a bang and didn’t let me go until the final page.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 15, 2017
WOW. I LOVED THIS BOOK. LOVE, LOVE, LOVED IT.
I'm always a bit hesitant to read sci-fi because so many times I feel like the romance gets put on the back burner for the sake of world building, trying to come up with as many weird names and weird non-earth creatures as possible, that it gets away from what I want to read - which is the romance. I am very happy to say that in this story, it's definitely about the romance! In fact, there are 2 of them going on in this story!
I never read the original when it was part of the GR event here, so I obviously have nothing to compare it to, but I was blown away with the world building AND the romance in this! I just loved Gabe and Sunder together, how much they wanted each other but thought they could never have the other, and their chemistry and connection was just perfection. People have said in their reviews that Gabe and Sunder compliment each other well, and that's totally it. And then the kinky side loved the tail sex, the possessive scenting, and the differences in Sunder's body.
There was a while somewhere around the 30-35% point of the story, that I felt like it was a little boggled down by exposition, explanations, and a lot of info brought up in a little bit of time, but then it got back on track and we also go to read about Ronan and Akira, who were also great together. Ronan is Gabe's best friend, and also hoping for an epic romance. I love that it gave time for them as well as continuing with Sunder and Gabe.
Aside from the main characters, I also really loved Sunder's family - I loved his mother, his brother, and how happy and excited they were that they could publicly claim Sunder as family.
There is so much going on in this story, from the different races, to what makes Sunder unique, his relationship with Gabe as a Guardian, that there's no way I could do it justice in my review here. Also, I did tag this with the mpreg bookshelf, but it's not your typical mpreg - although someone does "birth" something.
This was incredibly creative, imaginative, and seriously - once I started reading this, I could NOT stop. I CANNOT wait for more from this author in this unique universe she has created! WOW!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'm always a bit hesitant to read sci-fi because so many times I feel like the romance gets put on the back burner for the sake of world building, trying to come up with as many weird names and weird non-earth creatures as possible, that it gets away from what I want to read - which is the romance. I am very happy to say that in this story, it's definitely about the romance! In fact, there are 2 of them going on in this story!
I never read the original when it was part of the GR event here, so I obviously have nothing to compare it to, but I was blown away with the world building AND the romance in this! I just loved Gabe and Sunder together, how much they wanted each other but thought they could never have the other, and their chemistry and connection was just perfection. People have said in their reviews that Gabe and Sunder compliment each other well, and that's totally it. And then the kinky side loved the tail sex, the possessive scenting, and the differences in Sunder's body.
There was a while somewhere around the 30-35% point of the story, that I felt like it was a little boggled down by exposition, explanations, and a lot of info brought up in a little bit of time, but then it got back on track and we also go to read about Ronan and Akira, who were also great together. Ronan is Gabe's best friend, and also hoping for an epic romance. I love that it gave time for them as well as continuing with Sunder and Gabe.
Aside from the main characters, I also really loved Sunder's family - I loved his mother, his brother, and how happy and excited they were that they could publicly claim Sunder as family.
There is so much going on in this story, from the different races, to what makes Sunder unique, his relationship with Gabe as a Guardian, that there's no way I could do it justice in my review here. Also, I did tag this with the mpreg bookshelf, but it's not your typical mpreg - although someone does "birth" something.
This was incredibly creative, imaginative, and seriously - once I started reading this, I could NOT stop. I CANNOT wait for more from this author in this unique universe she has created! WOW!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2017
4.3 Stars
Wow, that was one helluva story...and I can't help but see it as a metaphor for how power & greed is corrupting our own planet. How the factions are fighting to stay in charge and letting the need to fix the environment fall to the wayside as they grapple with delivering the desires of special interests. (I loved how the oily substance had a name that looks like it could be pronounced "Evil".)
LOL at the Earth fans with "Sūnder <3s Gabe 4evar" signs. I think we will always be the most rabid shippers!
I really do hope there are more to this series. Yes, we got at least one side-couple's story...but I want to see if my suspicions for A'yre & Paolo come true. And Oh, yeah, like I mentioned in the update, the Booker family thing. Genetically altered mostly-humans? I think I need that book (with Talon & Prophet). So, more please? Thanks!!
Wow, that was one helluva story...and I can't help but see it as a metaphor for how power & greed is corrupting our own planet. How the factions are fighting to stay in charge and letting the need to fix the environment fall to the wayside as they grapple with delivering the desires of special interests. (I loved how the oily substance had a name that looks like it could be pronounced "Evil".)
LOL at the Earth fans with "Sūnder <3s Gabe 4evar" signs. I think we will always be the most rabid shippers!
I really do hope there are more to this series. Yes, we got at least one side-couple's story...but I want to see if my suspicions for A'yre & Paolo come true. And Oh, yeah, like I mentioned in the update, the Booker family thing. Genetically altered mostly-humans? I think I need that book (with Talon & Prophet). So, more please? Thanks!!
July 22, 2019
Lexi Ander has again blown me away. I started reading the free short story
but I was so intrigued that I went and purchased the full extended story. This futuristic Earth has aliens, magick, corruption, suspense and so much hot sweaty man-love.
I can't get enough of this world and can only hope that we get more stories. I'm desperate for Ayre to find love.
but I was so intrigued that I went and purchased the full extended story. This futuristic Earth has aliens, magick, corruption, suspense and so much hot sweaty man-love.I can't get enough of this world and can only hope that we get more stories. I'm desperate for Ayre to find love.
October 26, 2017
I loved this enough to go ahead and give it 5 stars even though I had a couple of niggles. Mostly it's just that there's a disconnect between what was the "old" DRitC story and the expanded full version. But I loved the original story and I love all the new material. Can't wait to see what happens next.
September 5, 2017
Really enjoyed this one. Great worldbuilding, nicely high stakes, and wonderful characters. I'm excited to read more in this series!
August 26, 2017
4.5 Stars
*****I was given this ebook in exchange for an honest review*****
I first read the free story, "Darksoul", a while ago and was hooked on this story. I was so glad that Lexi was able to finish the rest of the story.
"Sunder" includes the first story, which flowed as I remembered it. The second part was all I could ask for. The truth about the faeborn males, the slow death of the Jade Forrest, and Gabe's heritage are all revealed quite satisfactorily.
I loved seeing Sunder and Gabe together; how they complemented each other and gave each other strength.
The world building was fantastic and the various species were imaginative. The supporting characters were well formed and, even though there were a lot of them, they all had a purpose.
The only thing holding this back from being 5 full stars is the large use of accented letters. I appreciate what the author was trying to do but most of the accents resulted in the words sounding the same as without the accents. There were a few exceptions, and I appreciated the explanations, but the sheer number of accents distracted me from the story. It might just be me.
That little thing aside, I loved the story, the characters and the world. I can't wait to spend more time there with further volumes in the series.
*****I was given this ebook in exchange for an honest review*****
I first read the free story, "Darksoul", a while ago and was hooked on this story. I was so glad that Lexi was able to finish the rest of the story.
"Sunder" includes the first story, which flowed as I remembered it. The second part was all I could ask for. The truth about the faeborn males, the slow death of the Jade Forrest, and Gabe's heritage are all revealed quite satisfactorily.
I loved seeing Sunder and Gabe together; how they complemented each other and gave each other strength.
The world building was fantastic and the various species were imaginative. The supporting characters were well formed and, even though there were a lot of them, they all had a purpose.
The only thing holding this back from being 5 full stars is the large use of accented letters. I appreciate what the author was trying to do but most of the accents resulted in the words sounding the same as without the accents. There were a few exceptions, and I appreciated the explanations, but the sheer number of accents distracted me from the story. It might just be me.
That little thing aside, I loved the story, the characters and the world. I can't wait to spend more time there with further volumes in the series.
September 22, 2017
Yet another complex intriguing world that amazes me by its solid world building and characters. This author constantly is able to build worlds that are unique and do not feel like they have been done before. This book also has some pretty complicated political dynamics that toward the end are a little confusing with all the various characters that come out. I liked that Gabriel and Sunder are given time to get together and there is time devoted to given me a feel for each of the characters before the story shifts into overdrive with lots of action and political intrigue. The only thing that at times limited my enjoyment of this book was the cast of characters and side stories become too large to be contained in one book. I began to feel overwhelm towards the end of the book. The other downside to this book it might be a while before another book for this series will show up. Luckily everything is tied up pretty well and there are not any cliff hangers.
December 4, 2021
Re-Read: March 2019
rating: 4 stars
I think I enjoyed this a little more the second time I read it. The middle didn't drag as much for me this time around. Upgrading my rating to 4 stars.
Rating: 3.5 stars
I enjoyed this new world that Lexi Ander created. I loved both Gabe and Sūnder as the main characters. I am intrigued enough that I want to read more stories featuring Gabe and Sūnder. I would also love to read more of Akira's and Ronan's story. I would have rated it a bit higher, but thought the book dragged a bit in the middle. All in all, it was a good book and I highly recommend it.
rating: 4 stars
I think I enjoyed this a little more the second time I read it. The middle didn't drag as much for me this time around. Upgrading my rating to 4 stars.
Rating: 3.5 stars
I enjoyed this new world that Lexi Ander created. I loved both Gabe and Sūnder as the main characters. I am intrigued enough that I want to read more stories featuring Gabe and Sūnder. I would also love to read more of Akira's and Ronan's story. I would have rated it a bit higher, but thought the book dragged a bit in the middle. All in all, it was a good book and I highly recommend it.
December 30, 2017
When you read a Lexi Ander book, you can expect certain things. You can expect Fabulous World building ✅. You can expect a huge cast of complex and charismatic characters✅. You can expect action, intrigue and adventure ✅. You can expect not to want to put the book down till every word is absorbed✅. You can expect to love the main characters and become invested in their lives ✅✅. You can expect to love it and need book two immediately ✅✅✅✅✅✅. I think this book fulfils its expectations.
I received this ebook as an ARC and am pleased to give an honest opinion. Just bought my official copy too.
I received this ebook as an ARC and am pleased to give an honest opinion. Just bought my official copy too.
September 12, 2017
LOVED!! Review to come & reasoning behind only 3 stars!
September 16, 2017
OMG. Just read this book lol.
~M
~M
September 11, 2017
She did it again!
With Sūnder, Lexi Ander has created a whole new universe full of magic, many diverse and interesting characters, wonder and action.
As it is usual with any of the tales written by this talented author, Sūnder is many stories in one, all of them compelling - a beautiful romance between two lost souls who finally find their own strength and place in the world by caring for, loving and protecting one another - a wonderful story about the love of a true family, which isn’t always the one you were born into, but shines true nonetheless - and an exciting environmental thriller where the lives of many innocent beings are threatened by few power hungry people who would do anything to keep their privileges.
And this is just the first book of the series!
I have already read Sunder twice, thinking that the second time around I’d slow down and enjoy it at a slower pace so that I could think about what to put in my review in the meantime. No such luck - the story swallowed me whole again and I found myself back at square 1. This only shows how well this fantastic novel is written.
So, if you are looking for a story which takes you away from it all and entertains the heck out of you, then Sūnder (Darksoul 1) by Lexi Ander is the book.
Happy reading, everyone!
With Sūnder, Lexi Ander has created a whole new universe full of magic, many diverse and interesting characters, wonder and action.
As it is usual with any of the tales written by this talented author, Sūnder is many stories in one, all of them compelling - a beautiful romance between two lost souls who finally find their own strength and place in the world by caring for, loving and protecting one another - a wonderful story about the love of a true family, which isn’t always the one you were born into, but shines true nonetheless - and an exciting environmental thriller where the lives of many innocent beings are threatened by few power hungry people who would do anything to keep their privileges.
And this is just the first book of the series!
I have already read Sunder twice, thinking that the second time around I’d slow down and enjoy it at a slower pace so that I could think about what to put in my review in the meantime. No such luck - the story swallowed me whole again and I found myself back at square 1. This only shows how well this fantastic novel is written.
So, if you are looking for a story which takes you away from it all and entertains the heck out of you, then Sūnder (Darksoul 1) by Lexi Ander is the book.
Happy reading, everyone!
September 11, 2017
3.5 stars.
It pains me to say this but, I expected more. Perhaps that's why I'm doubly disappointed. Part one was absolutely perfect. I loved it. And I loved seeing Gabe and Sunder get to know each other. It was absolutely adorable. The little mystery of Sunder's birth and Sunder's birth mother was intriguing too.
But I think part two sort of messed things up for me. I constantly got lost and confused. Too many things and too many new characters all of a sudden. And while I appreciate an author's skill in bringing in different characters with different voices, it was ten too many.
Plus, there were a few side storylines I didn't much care for or would prefer if they had their own book to explore. I mean, I love Ronan and how protective he is of Gabe but I love Gabe and Sunder more. I want their book to be about them. And it wasn't fair to Ronan to have his romance inserted as a short aside than a full length of its own.
Or maybe it's just me. I know I was super exhausted but was still pushing myself to finish it. Perhaps a few sleeps and a reread will reduce my confusion and improve my impression of it?
It pains me to say this but, I expected more. Perhaps that's why I'm doubly disappointed. Part one was absolutely perfect. I loved it. And I loved seeing Gabe and Sunder get to know each other. It was absolutely adorable. The little mystery of Sunder's birth and Sunder's birth mother was intriguing too.
But I think part two sort of messed things up for me. I constantly got lost and confused. Too many things and too many new characters all of a sudden. And while I appreciate an author's skill in bringing in different characters with different voices, it was ten too many.
Plus, there were a few side storylines I didn't much care for or would prefer if they had their own book to explore. I mean, I love Ronan and how protective he is of Gabe but I love Gabe and Sunder more. I want their book to be about them. And it wasn't fair to Ronan to have his romance inserted as a short aside than a full length of its own.
Or maybe it's just me. I know I was super exhausted but was still pushing myself to finish it. Perhaps a few sleeps and a reread will reduce my confusion and improve my impression of it?
February 12, 2020
3.5 stars
This story had some great bones. Complex characters, political intrigue, a futuristic earth, fascinating aliens, and a budding romance between our primary characters.
On the flip side, I think the author introduced far too many players into the story that just became confusing as the story unfolded. Especially with several oddly similar names beginning with the letter A. I was pulled out of the story repeatedly wondering who was who. I also didn’t care for the reversal in Sunder’s behavior, alpha to wimp, or taking the focus off our main couple to introduce another prospective couple. I would like to have seen more expansive, more detailed world building.
And... the author just had to go there... mpreg light. Sheesh. 😕
This story had some great bones. Complex characters, political intrigue, a futuristic earth, fascinating aliens, and a budding romance between our primary characters.
On the flip side, I think the author introduced far too many players into the story that just became confusing as the story unfolded. Especially with several oddly similar names beginning with the letter A. I was pulled out of the story repeatedly wondering who was who. I also didn’t care for the reversal in Sunder’s behavior, alpha to wimp, or taking the focus off our main couple to introduce another prospective couple. I would like to have seen more expansive, more detailed world building.
And... the author just had to go there... mpreg light. Sheesh. 😕
September 8, 2017
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Rating 5 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-byi on 9/9
From that review: " I'm totally captivated by the fantasy world and characters of Sūnder (Darksoul #1) by Lexi Ander. Finishing at wee morning hours, I lay there lost in the relationship of Gabe and Sūnder, the amazing resolution of the saga that had unfolded through the night hours, all the beings that I had met and fallen madly in love with and knew I was not ready to leave any of them behind..."
for all our reviews, author interviews and such, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating 5 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-byi on 9/9
From that review: " I'm totally captivated by the fantasy world and characters of Sūnder (Darksoul #1) by Lexi Ander. Finishing at wee morning hours, I lay there lost in the relationship of Gabe and Sūnder, the amazing resolution of the saga that had unfolded through the night hours, all the beings that I had met and fallen madly in love with and knew I was not ready to leave any of them behind..."
for all our reviews, author interviews and such, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
September 6, 2017
Fabulous world, outstanding characters!
I am in love with this book! Lexi Ander does her usual job of building a fantastic world and the different people of this world are fascinating. The ethnic groups of this world are intricately connected. The Prologue starts this story with a bang and then you cannot put this book down because you need to know what happens to Gabriel and Sunder and what a romance that is!
Now I'm going to get lost in this world again....
I am in love with this book! Lexi Ander does her usual job of building a fantastic world and the different people of this world are fascinating. The ethnic groups of this world are intricately connected. The Prologue starts this story with a bang and then you cannot put this book down because you need to know what happens to Gabriel and Sunder and what a romance that is!
Now I'm going to get lost in this world again....
September 24, 2025
Lexi has done it again. I'm normally not reaching for SF first but Lexi's is different. Suprised it took me this long to read this book. I LOVED( Alpha Trine (The Valespian Pact #1)) and have read it more than once. Too much goes on for me to be able to explain. There are people who do it better. But know it was so good. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could.
December 3, 2017
Reviewed on The Blogger Girls.
4.5 Stars
Sūnder grew up hated by his mother’s people because he’s faeborn and has magick, something that, up until his birth, meant death for male newborns. Somehow he’s managed to grow up into a respected warrior and commander so when he goes to Earth to guard the Chándariān prince, he doesn’t expect to find his mate. Gabriel hasn’t had it easy lately. His parents left him when he was sixteen and aside from his best friend, he doesn’t have anyone else in his life. When he meets Sūnder, his whole world tilts but he knows their time together can’t last. But the more time they spend together, the closer they get and the closer they get to finding out who Gabriel really is.
OMG, where has this book been my whole life? I somehow missed it during the M/M Romance Group’s Love is an Open Road event and what a shame that was! This one surprised the heck out of me, though. I knew it was scifi but I didn’t really know what I was getting into and once I started it, I was sucked right in! It starts off with a bang and just keeps going from there. When I thought I was starting to see where things were going, something would happen and take it into a different direction. I will say that this book does have mpreg in it. However, it’s not the traditional kind and I won’t go into details with it but readers should be aware that this happens so they don’t get blind-sided.
As for the characters, Sūnder starts off a little cold. He’s been hated by his mother’s people and not allowed to acknowledge his father or brother so it’s made him a little bitter. All that changes when he meets Gabriel because one thing after another happens that finally gives him what he’s been craving in life. It was interesting to see that change happen because he’s a completely different person by the end of the book, he’s more vulnerable and more understanding. For Gabriel, he develops so much in this book that I almost didn’t recognize him. He starts off this naive, innocent guy and then by the end, he’s this sorta leader. It was so fascinating to see how much these two developed in their relationship not just romantically but also mentally. I just fell in love with this story and have that urge to re-read it already even though I just finished it!
I ADORED this book and the only thing I had an issue with is there was too much sex for my liking. I loved the chemistry between Sūnder and Gabriel but still too much sex on page for me.
In the end, this was an amazing book. I loved the world building and the character development. I liked that Ms. Ander wrote about them after they get together and not just left it at that because I’m always curious about ‘after’. Long story short, I can’t wait to read the next book in this series! Give this one a try if you enjoy a great scifi book with a few surprises along the way.
4.5 Stars
Sūnder grew up hated by his mother’s people because he’s faeborn and has magick, something that, up until his birth, meant death for male newborns. Somehow he’s managed to grow up into a respected warrior and commander so when he goes to Earth to guard the Chándariān prince, he doesn’t expect to find his mate. Gabriel hasn’t had it easy lately. His parents left him when he was sixteen and aside from his best friend, he doesn’t have anyone else in his life. When he meets Sūnder, his whole world tilts but he knows their time together can’t last. But the more time they spend together, the closer they get and the closer they get to finding out who Gabriel really is.
OMG, where has this book been my whole life? I somehow missed it during the M/M Romance Group’s Love is an Open Road event and what a shame that was! This one surprised the heck out of me, though. I knew it was scifi but I didn’t really know what I was getting into and once I started it, I was sucked right in! It starts off with a bang and just keeps going from there. When I thought I was starting to see where things were going, something would happen and take it into a different direction. I will say that this book does have mpreg in it. However, it’s not the traditional kind and I won’t go into details with it but readers should be aware that this happens so they don’t get blind-sided.
As for the characters, Sūnder starts off a little cold. He’s been hated by his mother’s people and not allowed to acknowledge his father or brother so it’s made him a little bitter. All that changes when he meets Gabriel because one thing after another happens that finally gives him what he’s been craving in life. It was interesting to see that change happen because he’s a completely different person by the end of the book, he’s more vulnerable and more understanding. For Gabriel, he develops so much in this book that I almost didn’t recognize him. He starts off this naive, innocent guy and then by the end, he’s this sorta leader. It was so fascinating to see how much these two developed in their relationship not just romantically but also mentally. I just fell in love with this story and have that urge to re-read it already even though I just finished it!
I ADORED this book and the only thing I had an issue with is there was too much sex for my liking. I loved the chemistry between Sūnder and Gabriel but still too much sex on page for me.
In the end, this was an amazing book. I loved the world building and the character development. I liked that Ms. Ander wrote about them after they get together and not just left it at that because I’m always curious about ‘after’. Long story short, I can’t wait to read the next book in this series! Give this one a try if you enjoy a great scifi book with a few surprises along the way.
October 1, 2017
To be honest I am a little biased about this book because I wrote the story prompt based on the photo for Love is an Open Road, that Lexi choose and ended up writing Darksoul: Part One, so I am emotionally connected to this book in so many ways.
I don't even know where to start: Sunder was amazing.
It turned out to be so much more than I could ever have imagined.
The emotions in the story had me on a roller coaster that didn't seem to want to quit. I don't even have the words to describe how much I absolutely loved this. But I can say how amazing it was and how emotional Sunder and Gabe's trials and tribulations made me feel and hope that many others see what a beautiful and complex story this was. What started out as a simple photo story prompt that turned into Darksoul: Part One, is now more than I could have even imagined and its all thanks to Lexi and her amazing ability to write.
Lexi has put so much effort into this book, creating an entire world for a fan to escape into. I want to thank her because this is truly more than I could have ever hoped for. So Lexi, thank you! I have always been a fan of yours and will continue to be because of the worlds you create and the emotions that your books and characters bring out in me. Your ability to write is amazing to me.
I don't even know where to start: Sunder was amazing.
It turned out to be so much more than I could ever have imagined.
The emotions in the story had me on a roller coaster that didn't seem to want to quit. I don't even have the words to describe how much I absolutely loved this. But I can say how amazing it was and how emotional Sunder and Gabe's trials and tribulations made me feel and hope that many others see what a beautiful and complex story this was. What started out as a simple photo story prompt that turned into Darksoul: Part One, is now more than I could have even imagined and its all thanks to Lexi and her amazing ability to write.
Lexi has put so much effort into this book, creating an entire world for a fan to escape into. I want to thank her because this is truly more than I could have ever hoped for. So Lexi, thank you! I have always been a fan of yours and will continue to be because of the worlds you create and the emotions that your books and characters bring out in me. Your ability to write is amazing to me.
January 5, 2018
5 STARS
Every now and again I get swallowed up by a huge warm fuzzy of a book. It doesn’t happen often enough but I just loved this book. High Fantasy, Sci-FI, Magick, Maddeningly Sappy but beautiful M/M Interspecies Relationships, Asexual characters, Abandonment Issues, Intergalactic Feuds, Battle Scene’s, Wooing, Romance, Thriller, Mystery with a big fat HEA and walking tree’s.
Not to mention the obvious for it to get 5 stars. It was excellently written and edited with a fantastic storyline. There is also a gargantuan amount of left over material to play with in this actual universe Lexi has created. There was no writing into corners with this book and I’d be shocked to find that there isn’t people gagging for a series not just a sequel ;)
Please god (agnostically speaking) write another, books like this are my comfort food! Some people might see me eating Lobster with the finest cocktail sauce while others will see me eating salted herring crusted in crushed candy. I so don’t care, I need more
Every now and again I get swallowed up by a huge warm fuzzy of a book. It doesn’t happen often enough but I just loved this book. High Fantasy, Sci-FI, Magick, Maddeningly Sappy but beautiful M/M Interspecies Relationships, Asexual characters, Abandonment Issues, Intergalactic Feuds, Battle Scene’s, Wooing, Romance, Thriller, Mystery with a big fat HEA and walking tree’s.
Not to mention the obvious for it to get 5 stars. It was excellently written and edited with a fantastic storyline. There is also a gargantuan amount of left over material to play with in this actual universe Lexi has created. There was no writing into corners with this book and I’d be shocked to find that there isn’t people gagging for a series not just a sequel ;)
Please god (agnostically speaking) write another, books like this are my comfort food! Some people might see me eating Lobster with the finest cocktail sauce while others will see me eating salted herring crusted in crushed candy. I so don’t care, I need more
September 18, 2017
3 stars
This story was one of my favorites from the m/m romance group's "Love Is an Open Road" event, and I've been waiting for the completed story ever since I read the first part. Maybe that's why I'm a bit disappointed?
It just didn't do it for me.
Normally when I read a book that I enjoy, I can sit and read until morning without feeling tired. With this I felt myself grow distracted and unfocused after only reading for a short while. At the same time I can't point to anything that's wrong with the book. Maybe I just wasn't in the right headspace.
Anyways, I'm sure others will enjoy it much more than I.
This story was one of my favorites from the m/m romance group's "Love Is an Open Road" event, and I've been waiting for the completed story ever since I read the first part. Maybe that's why I'm a bit disappointed?
It just didn't do it for me.
Normally when I read a book that I enjoy, I can sit and read until morning without feeling tired. With this I felt myself grow distracted and unfocused after only reading for a short while. At the same time I can't point to anything that's wrong with the book. Maybe I just wasn't in the right headspace.
Anyways, I'm sure others will enjoy it much more than I.
September 8, 2017
Not bad
In some places the story was just a lil more rushed. Over all I enjoyed the book, I read it in one day so not too long and yes I would read book 2. I did like the unique take on this... But I would have like the love stories to happen in there own books so you could get more attached to there stories.
In some places the story was just a lil more rushed. Over all I enjoyed the book, I read it in one day so not too long and yes I would read book 2. I did like the unique take on this... But I would have like the love stories to happen in there own books so you could get more attached to there stories.
September 13, 2017
*****I recieved this ebook in exchange for an honest review*****
This has been a much-anticipated read for me since I read the original story in the M/M Romance Group's "Love is an Open Road" event back in 2015, which contained only book 1. In this new completed version, we see book 1 with only some minor alterations for the sake of plot, and we get book 2, which is where things get interesting.
I really like the premise of the book, and Lexi has such an amazing talent for world building and creating interesting and diverse characters. We get a bunch of fantastic species, the Panthrÿn which I more or less interpreted as humanoid cats, the L’fyn which resemble the fabled Elves (like LotR elves), and the Faelÿns, also humanoid cat, but with their felines features much more marked. Not to mention of course, the entire plan related species and the persons with power over them.
This book captured me from the very beginning I must say. I particularly like the flow of it, it’s very easy to read and get lost in this universe, which again, is why I love reading anything from this author. In the prologue, we get the backstory of Sunder’s birth and how it has shaped his life. In general, all throughout book one, we get to know each of the characters, their personalities and the why of their actions. It is also where we see Gabriel and Sunder’s relationship develop and flourish, and one can’t help but root for them in the intrigue-filled environment in which they find themselves immersed.
Little by little, we get to discover that things are not as they seem, Gabriel suddenly has magical powers that allow him to speak to and control plants, and also he’s capable of cleansing Sunder’s soul from this weird sentient pollution. Then things kick up a notch (or 10). There come the guardians, the Silverhands, the Darksoul hunters, the druids. Basically, the last part of book one and most of book two is packed with action, fights, political intrigue, devious machinations from the bad guys, and all sorts of awesome.
I loved the side characters and their interactions. They each have their own voice and purpose in the story. I really liked Valora, such a fierce mother and p
This has been a much-anticipated read for me since I read the original story in the M/M Romance Group's "Love is an Open Road" event back in 2015, which contained only book 1. In this new completed version, we see book 1 with only some minor alterations for the sake of plot, and we get book 2, which is where things get interesting.
I really like the premise of the book, and Lexi has such an amazing talent for world building and creating interesting and diverse characters. We get a bunch of fantastic species, the Panthrÿn which I more or less interpreted as humanoid cats, the L’fyn which resemble the fabled Elves (like LotR elves), and the Faelÿns, also humanoid cat, but with their felines features much more marked. Not to mention of course, the entire plan related species and the persons with power over them.
This book captured me from the very beginning I must say. I particularly like the flow of it, it’s very easy to read and get lost in this universe, which again, is why I love reading anything from this author. In the prologue, we get the backstory of Sunder’s birth and how it has shaped his life. In general, all throughout book one, we get to know each of the characters, their personalities and the why of their actions. It is also where we see Gabriel and Sunder’s relationship develop and flourish, and one can’t help but root for them in the intrigue-filled environment in which they find themselves immersed.
Little by little, we get to discover that things are not as they seem, Gabriel suddenly has magical powers that allow him to speak to and control plants, and also he’s capable of cleansing Sunder’s soul from this weird sentient pollution. Then things kick up a notch (or 10). There come the guardians, the Silverhands, the Darksoul hunters, the druids. Basically, the last part of book one and most of book two is packed with action, fights, political intrigue, devious machinations from the bad guys, and all sorts of awesome.
I loved the side characters and their interactions. They each have their own voice and purpose in the story. I really liked Valora, such a fierce mother and p
September 28, 2017
2.5 stars. This was a tough one for me. The characters just did not do it for me- it seemed that they (Gabe, Sunder, Ronan) changed personalities halfway through and I didn't appreciate that. Generally for everyone I thought the character development was weak. Since I'm a sucker for character development and world building (which was alright, although the alien characters seemed like Americans with a different body type- that is to say culturally, they were and acted like Americans), this was a disappointment.
That being said, the plot was pretty kickass. That's what salvaged this for me and encouraged me to push through. While some inconsistencies need to be edited, overall the plot was engaging, complex, and unique. I liked that it's applicable as well to our society today . It's hard to find such complex plot lines in the mm-romance genre, and for that I appreciate it. My only complaint is that the ending scenes, including the climax fight, seemed very rushed.
Side note that gives nothing away, so don't worry about spoilers, what is "ènts" supposed to be? I know what they are in the context of the story, but the comment was made that it is similar to an English word and perhaps this was the original source of the word. I got "evyelle" is supposed to be evil, but what in the world is ents? Because if it's supposed to be ants, I assure you that makes no sense to me, considering we're talking about trees. Can anyone clarify?
That being said, the plot was pretty kickass. That's what salvaged this for me and encouraged me to push through. While some inconsistencies need to be edited, overall the plot was engaging, complex, and unique. I liked that it's applicable as well to our society today . It's hard to find such complex plot lines in the mm-romance genre, and for that I appreciate it. My only complaint is that the ending scenes, including the climax fight, seemed very rushed.
Side note that gives nothing away, so don't worry about spoilers, what is "ènts" supposed to be? I know what they are in the context of the story, but the comment was made that it is similar to an English word and perhaps this was the original source of the word. I got "evyelle" is supposed to be evil, but what in the world is ents? Because if it's supposed to be ants, I assure you that makes no sense to me, considering we're talking about trees. Can anyone clarify?
January 27, 2018
*spoiler alert*
I was expecting more of this book. Or I should say... less. Less confusion, less far fetched ideas, less convulsed action and far less cliches.
For example... Gabe was a commitment-phobe... Then gave up so easily and accepted Sunder as the love of his life, blah, blah, blah. He's presented as this almost meek, non confrontational character and all of a sudden he became this strong alpha guy who snarls at everyone that does so much at look at his partner. The transformation was too unexpected, too unrealistic, too sudden. I was feeling left out and confused. Scrolled back 30 pages, read a page, went back where I was initially reading and all I could think of was "that is not the same guy". At least Sunder and the others were more consistent as chracters. Mostly...
And the Guardian subplot? Don't get me started on that. It was convulsed, inconsistent and baffling. The author wanted to do too much, too quickly and didn't go into much detail.
The mpreg subplot? Another failure for me. I felt like I was reading 3 different books at the same time and they didn't have a damn thing in common, except they were all fantasy novels.
I was skipping pages at the end. First 20-30% of the book were ok, but after that...
I was expecting more of this book. Or I should say... less. Less confusion, less far fetched ideas, less convulsed action and far less cliches.
For example... Gabe was a commitment-phobe... Then gave up so easily and accepted Sunder as the love of his life, blah, blah, blah. He's presented as this almost meek, non confrontational character and all of a sudden he became this strong alpha guy who snarls at everyone that does so much at look at his partner. The transformation was too unexpected, too unrealistic, too sudden. I was feeling left out and confused. Scrolled back 30 pages, read a page, went back where I was initially reading and all I could think of was "that is not the same guy". At least Sunder and the others were more consistent as chracters. Mostly...
And the Guardian subplot? Don't get me started on that. It was convulsed, inconsistent and baffling. The author wanted to do too much, too quickly and didn't go into much detail.
The mpreg subplot? Another failure for me. I felt like I was reading 3 different books at the same time and they didn't have a damn thing in common, except they were all fantasy novels.
I was skipping pages at the end. First 20-30% of the book were ok, but after that...
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