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The God Jars Saga #5

Mentor: Purity and Control 2

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Valis must step up as a mentor, but two highly suspicious men may ruin everything.

Something is wrong with Vohan and Xetar—two reliquary guards who have just returned from field duty. They are adamant that Valis is a spy for Qos because of the black magic he wields. Valis insists their malevolence is more than war trauma, but no one—not even his closest friends—believe him.

With the time to retrieve the lost God Jar quickly approaching, Valis must teach the reliquary guard force the necessary skills to succeed in the coming battles. However, a riot amongst the men hides Vohan and Xetar’s treachery and Valis has to act fast.

If he doesn’t, the people he loves most will pay the ultimate price.

The M/M romantic elements in God Jars is a very slow burn. The God Jars Saga contains explicit material including violence, abuse, and M/M sexual encounters, and is not advised for anyone under the age of 18.

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 6, 2018

12 people are currently reading
38 people want to read

About the author

Devon Vesper

33 books247 followers
If there’s one thing Devon likes most, it’s chaos. They have a chaotic mind and a messy house, and they throw their characters into every calamitous situation possible. When they aren’t writing, they’re editing or formatting other authors’ works, building websites, creating graphics, reading, playing video games, or watching Fortnite streams on Twitch. They like to stay busy. So yes. Chaos.

Working full time, Devon spends as much time as they can talking to their readers. So if you want to get in touch with them, join their Facebook Group Devon’s Dreamers’ Den, or their newsletter, or email them directly at devon.vesper@gmail.com.

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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Becca.
3,229 reviews47 followers
September 18, 2019
I can not believe how amazing this series has gotten with every book. I love it. Absolutely love it. But as much as I love it, I'm also saddened by what Valis has to go through. It's a rough road he's having to travel and at every turn, he's being ambushed with something.
When Valis and Tab and everyone returned home, he couldn't have been happier. He was home. In a place where he finally felt he belonged. Until Aryn came and started things off bad. When he found out Valis and Tav were courting and Aryn was out of the running, the sulking and quiet were an everyday presence. But now he's being bullied and fought again by two men who are supposed to be his brothers. And every day it's getting worse. It wasn't until after a bad training day where Tav was injured, that Valis finally got to see why. But when they got demoted, it wasn't until too late, he figured out what was happening. They took off with Tav and his favorite little girl 'Nali. And when he found them, it was bad. But thanks to all his training and help from his father, he was able to defeat them enough to put them in stasis. But now comes the hard part. Do they put his brothers in prison for something they couldn't control, or can he purify them? And at what cost? To make matters even worse, Aryn has found Valis and Tab after a passionate session and is vowing they will regret it. With all Valis already has on his shoulders, how is he going to deal with the betrayal he feels is coming from someone who is supposed to be his best friend?
You know, I've felt so bad for Valis with all he's had to endure in these books so far, but this book has been one of the worst. His own brothers turning on him, his best friend turning on him, and everything else he's got on his shoulders. He finally managed to break open the 'locks' on Roba's books and what they are finding is horrid. They know things they shouldn't know and Valis is even more determined to make sure everyone can protect themselves. Especially magically. But, as usual, he can't catch a break. Dissention among the ranks are making things so hard. The harder he tries, the worse it gets. He finally figured out why, but it still hurts. All he's been trying to do is be the best he can be. Help others and do what he's supposed to do. And since being told he's the key to a lot of things, it's weighing on him even more. He's shouldering the burdens and he's determined not to give up, but the load is becoming extremely heavy. But one thing I have to say, is I'd be proud of him as a kid. He's grown so much and learned so much. And even after all that happens to him, he still has a heart of forgiveness and love. It's amazing. And watching the journey of him grow and surpass those in higher ranks has just been impressive. Especially being so young. He's a force to be reckoned with and he's still learning.
It's an amazing series. One I'm so glad I've gotten the chance to read.

http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Profile Image for OneDayI'll.
1,601 reviews42 followers
March 3, 2024
Gearing up but losing ground

The overarching plot is losing ground. Too much is being thrown together into the many subplots. The focus is fractured between too many characters, too many threads being pulled. And the emotional punches lack hit because of it. Aryn should have been sent to counseling. The trouble guards should have been pulled aside and tested after their return when the behavior issues cropped up. Valis keeps saying cast by intent and immediately forgets his own lesson. It's the plot to every DareDevil episode: "I can't do the thing!" "Yes, you can!" "Look, I'm doing the thing!" Why couldn't Valis take people with him when rescuing __ and __? He could have hidden their presence. Intent. Why didn't Nali remember? Was it blocked from her memory? If those guards were agents sent to sow chaos, why wouldn't they assume they'd have infected others? Just letting Nali skip off is foolish. If his horse is supposed to be like a partner they need more bonding time and training time. He needs to learn how to fight with his new horse. Why hasn't Valis pushed more people to befriend the mercs? And what are they doing when not on scene with Valis? Why is Tavros so timid in training now? He went from strong to bidable doormat. And seems to have lost every bit of his decades of training in between books. What plans do the caravan people have? Where do they fit in now? Why aren't they training the compound's horses? Why haven't the training sessions rotated through more guards to learn from Valis? Or why haven't they passed on what they've learned? Why haven't we heard anything about the dads in a couple books now? How long is Roba hanging around? And how creepy is it that he's enjoying Valis' alone time with Tavros? And why isn't Tavros upset about it? Why isn't Valis asking questions about __ since learning they were an anchor and that Roba would know a good deal about their habits? As I said, too many plot threads getting tangled or lost. The pattern is too busy and needs a little streamlining.
16.7k reviews158 followers
June 9, 2020
They have come back from war and they accuse him of being a spy. He tries to get others to realise something else is going on with them. He needs to get someone to help.him or he will lose everything. Can he stop them? Will anyone believe him

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Natosha Wilson.
1,274 reviews15 followers
March 5, 2018
With each and every book, this series just keeps getting better and better and when each book has ended...I am left waiting impatiently waiting for the next book. This book especially left me wanting the next book in the series as quickly as I can get it. Devon Vespar has an incredible series with this series.

This book picks up with where the last book left off. Valis, Tavros, Seza, and Zhasina have just arrived back home after being gone for months rescuing the caravan that they left to help. Valis and Tavros are so looking forward to having some down time with each other but that is not exactly what they get. There is too much danger still lurking and with each and every turn there is a new danger awaiting them.

Valis and Tavros are officially courting and have to decide when they will complete their mating. Most are excited for them but few are not. Including Tavros’s younger brother Aryn. Aryn believes that he is better suited for Valis and is not happy that Valis has chosen to court his older brother instead. Of course Valis feels bad that he hurt Aryn but Valis has tried on many occasions to let Aryn know that they were only friends and nothing more. Aryn just chooses not to believe this.

Valis and Tavros are both getting magically stronger with each passing second and they are going to need every bit of it because Qos adherents are getting closer. Much closer they they ever thought would be possible. If the predictions are correct the Valis is about to endure the biggest and most dangerous fight of his life and Tavros will need to be at his side to help to keep Valis not only alive but to help to keep the black magic from taking over.

Valis’ responsibilities keep piling up on him and at times overwhelms him but Tavros is able to calm Valis like no other. These two together are much stronger then apart. Can these two keep the other safe or will the danger that surrounds them eventually be too much for them to survive? Who is it they need to watch out for? Can they fully trust everyone in their inner circle? What part will Aryn play when push comes to shove? Will Aryn support Valis and Tavros in the end or will Aryn be the one that can bring everything evil down upon their heads in the end? These are all questions that I cannot wait to get the answers too. Some will be answered in this book and others will be answered in future books.

I cannot wait for the next book to come out. Hoping will not have to wait too long. Devon definitely created the best book in this series with this book so far.

Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
430 reviews3 followers
January 5, 2020
4.5 🌟 rounded up

This is book two in the Purity and Control trilogy, or book five in the God Jars saga. As with the others, the storyline flows nicely from the previous book, Support. It is nice to see that as Valis is growing into his powers and role in the war to come, he is learning better control over his emotions. I say that, only because most of the crying has dried up; not because Valis's emotions play no role in the story. Actually, that is far from the case.

In this book, Valis finds himself once again the victim of bullying and abuse. But this time, he has known love and family and safety. He has learned a measure of control. And, though he may cower inside, he knows that in order to serve his purpose, he must remain calm and true to his duty.

Valis, Tavros, Seza, and Zhasina have begun their training in the Aesriphos rights and rituals with four reliquary Aesriphos guards, and Valis is determined to teach the elite Aesriphos what he has learned from his sire, both about casting, and about fighting and defending against black magic.

Unfortunately, his tormentors sew seeds of fear and doubt among the guards, and Valis is put in a horrible position. When things get out of hand, Thyran FINALLY steps in, but as this banks the fires in most cases, it seems to inflame the main dissenters.

When there is a threat Valis cannot stomach, the chase is on. The outcome of this not only surprises Thyran and reliquary Aesriphos in regards to Valis, but also brings to light the darkness that has been among them all.

In the meantime, Valis and Tav, and Seza and Zhasina have set the dates for their bonding ceremonies. While this is necessary and a cause for celebration, it also affects Aryn, as he was not given the opportunity to court Valis. Bad things are coming, both from outside forces, as well as from a more personal front. I have a feeling that the dynamics in the circle of friends are going to change, and soon.

Happy reading!

* I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my honest review. *
Profile Image for blub.
2,040 reviews
January 14, 2019
Valis and party return to the Avristin (home to the monastery) But their return isn’t as joyous as Valis or Tavros would have it when the two encounter two fellow Aesriphos (paladins) just as they are trying to get to their rooms. They act very hostile towards Valis and after just returning to his room, two end up barging in to attack Valis. Valis being Valis decides not to let them bother his life but when the two continue to act out and start turning Valis’s students on him. Valis has no choice to bring it up to an authority figure to take care of. But the trouble doesn’t end there when the bullies decide to kidnap two of Valis’s loved ones.

It was an exciting, frustrating to almost tears and a bit of an annoying (because of the bullying and mistreatment). At first, I hadn’t been really into the book since I had taken a small gap break from the series. But as I read on that wasn’t really the case, I found myself fully immersed in the book. Just like the other books in the series I was still in awe of Valis and how much he didn’t let anything bother him after his own ordeal in the beginning. I liked that he was forgiving and let things go since I’m the opposite. It was hard for me not to feel angry that Valis was once again being treated badly and was endanger of being seriously hurt and feeling bad about himself. For those weary of an over abundant of crying; there isn’t much in this one.

I enjoyed getting to know Valis as he’s growing into his powers and witnessing how he wields it and in turn teaches others how to wield their own.

Loved seeing Valis and Tavros courting and being intimate. They’ve both come a long way and I hope that Aryn comes to accept them.

A free copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Chelle Britton.
32 reviews35 followers
March 13, 2018
Just when you thought he couldn't get better. Devon Vesper's character, Valis, is my all time favorite in MM fantasy. And it's for a simple reason: character development. Valis started this series as scared and powerless, but turned into this complete bada** who'd killed anyone who threatened him and his (in battle), but all the while maintaining his sensitive and caring soul. Mentor, book 5 in the God Jars series, gives you a look into exactly how far he has come in his development. There's tons more I could say that I loved about this book, but they'd all be spoilers so I won't.

This story is a great read for those who like fantasy and romance as you get a good dose of both. I completely recommend reading the first 4 books in the series as you'll be a bit lost if you don't.

**I was given an ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.**
Profile Image for tammy rufo.
654 reviews1 follower
January 14, 2019
i love valis and tavros! this was a great book, they keep getting better and hotter. but like always something always has to cause problems. this time it comes from Vohan and Xetar—two reliquary guards. they do everything they can to hurt valis and turn the other guards against him. then there is Aryn, Tavros's younger brother. he is totally infatuated with Valis, and a side from a few threats hasn't done much this book...i fear he will play a bigger part in the next book Betrayal. i mean the name alone doesn't give me a lot of hope....i would def recommend this series. it's a slow burn, but so worth it! love Devon Vesper!
Profile Image for Tony Williamson.
25 reviews
March 17, 2018
Another great book in this series. Valis has the world weighing on his shoulders. Just when he thought he could live a peaceful life among his fiends, his lover Tavros and finally finding some common ground with his birth father (and that is tricky when he is living inside of you...wow!) All hell is about to break loose in an all out war with the adherents of Qo's. Then again, Hell hath no fury like a lover scorned, even if that loves is one sided.This series just gets better with each page read. Ms. Vesper has created one hell of a world.
Profile Image for R.
2,123 reviews
January 8, 2020
Valis and Tavros have settled into their relationship. They have absolute trust in each other.
When Valis is tasked with teaching the Aesriphos his way of making magic (thinking what he needs, not praying for it). It seems that everyone is against them.

I really like the love is developing between the main characters. A couple of interesting surprises added to the enjoyment of the book. The world building keeps getting better. The writing is very easy to read. I like that the sense of doom is being magnified. Nice addition.

I received an arc of this book.
Profile Image for Amanda.
2,054 reviews94 followers
January 17, 2020
I’m having a hard time rating this book. It still was amazing, and had a lot of the things I’ve come to expect and enjoy from this series, I just couldn’t help but wish for more. I feel like we got a lot of background, a lot of insight into what can and may happen next, but a lot less action. I think it was kind of a case of a sophomore slump, as I believe we are ramping up to a heavy hitting end to this portion of the series. Still thoroughly enjoyed it, still can’t wait to move on to the next one, but not as strong as the ones before it.
Profile Image for Janet Hunt.
3,538 reviews46 followers
August 12, 2020
This is the second in the trilogy. Valis finds himself being bullied. But as he hides inside himself, he’s strong on the outside. Valis, Tavros, Seza, and Zhasina begins training but unfortunately there is trouble amongst the ranks. There is fear among the guards. When things get really bad, Thyran steps in and calms the guard. Well written, strong characters, and fantastic story line. I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
Profile Image for Alan D.D..
Author 39 books79 followers
November 8, 2020
Aunque el ritmo lento se mantiene, los personajes se desarrollan bien, la historia se mantiene interesante y el estilo de la autora te mantiene atrapado en la lectura. Algo bueno se viene, aunque ya me está cansando un poco todo este tema del Elegido sin ninguna razón.

Although the slow pace stays put, the characters develop well, the story stays interesting, and the author's style keeps you hooked on reading. Something good is coming, although this whole issue of the Chosen One for no reason is already tiring me a bit.
Profile Image for Michelle.
835 reviews4 followers
January 30, 2020
Another book in this amazing series that managed to keep me rapidly turning to the next page. Aenali is a bit more of a focus in this novel, and there is also the introduction of Xetar and Vohan who make Malfoy look like he was treating Harry kindly. A bit more sexy times in this book and some cleverly introduced magic powers. Times seem desperate, then they're not, and then they are again. Yes, another cliffhanger to add to the pile, so on to the next book!
1,488 reviews4 followers
February 7, 2020
I am impressed by this amazing world, built by Devon Vesper and how the story of Valis and Tavros is evolving. Struggling with danger, intrigue and betrayal with the enemy hidden inside an unexpected place, but of course with their relationship getting stronger, this book left some questions open and the adventure will continue. I can’t wait for the next book in this fantastic series.
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
432 reviews11 followers
August 30, 2020
Valis and his friends are returning to Avristin, but this time it is not the safe place it used and supposed to be. He needs to find inner strength and control to fight for himself and maintain his duties at the same time. It's a precarious balance to achieve, but he's growing with every challenge thrown in his way although that comes with emotional price to pay. I can't emphasize enough how good and addictive this series is. Can't wait for more.
Profile Image for Siobhan Flynn.
568 reviews3 followers
September 21, 2020
I absolutely love that Valis and Tavros have made their relationship official and continue to grow. Valis does sometimes get overwhelmed with all his responsibilities but has the power to accomplish alot now. There is dangers lurking in the shadow and Aryn is being bitter about Valis and Tavros being together but there is hope he will ultimately be happy for them both. An epic fantasy and romance that just keeps getting better as the story progresses.
Profile Image for Joscelyn Smith.
2,307 reviews17 followers
March 27, 2018
This series is a must read for anyone who loves sword and sorcery fantasy. I swear that Valis can't seem to catch a break, every battle won and every obstacle surmounted just makes way for an even greater danger to be faced. As always Mentor ends and leaves me with a desperate need for the next book and this ending is a doozy because the most recent dangers are hitting closer and closer to home.
Profile Image for Tammy.
646 reviews9 followers
October 18, 2018
Story has a nice pace, and enough going on to keep my interest till the end. Love the characters the author made for the series. I hope others enjoy the series as much as I have. Loving the series. The chemistry between Tavros and Valis is slowly getting hotter.
“I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book and was not required to leave a review.”
Thank you for sharing your book with us.
Profile Image for Scarolet Ellis.
7,445 reviews52 followers
January 29, 2019
Mentor: Purity and Control 2 (The God Jars Saga 5) by Devon Vesper is a great book to read. This is book number five in this great series. I really enjoyed reading this story and I highly recommend this to everyone.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
491 reviews15 followers
January 31, 2019
Book number five was quite enjoyable. The ending made me really anxious about book number six...a part of me cant wait while the other part is afraid. Also, I miss Kerac and Doralen so much!! Haven't seen them in the series since book number two. I hope that changes soon.
Profile Image for Patricia Nelson.
1,739 reviews20 followers
February 14, 2020
This fantastic, grab-you-by-the-feels, nail biting, keep-you-on-the-edge-of-your-seat, gripping, poignant, powerful, slow burning, amazing, and totally awesome tale had me hooked from beginning to end. I can't wait to see what happens next.
5,704 reviews39 followers
January 18, 2019
good story... good characters.. fast paced and interesting topic and plot.. the emotions are real and fun to read and feel with them. i liked it
Profile Image for Denise White.
2,038 reviews
March 15, 2022
Poor Vilas can he catch a break! I’m enjoying it though because you actually see his growth and how he is starting to mature.. and Aryn !! WTH!!… off to the next book…
Profile Image for Gema Rodríguez.
Author 6 books3 followers
February 15, 2020
Centered in Valis and Tavros's training, it makes the overall story advance quite nicely having also an interesting side story to keep your attention.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews

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