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The Valespian Pact #3
Constant
Can a Warlord and a Prince find love when the galaxy is on the brink of war?
Chief Warlord Sohm'lan has a job he loves protecting the family who claims him as one of their own. He has known the loss of a mate and believed he would walk alone for the rest of his life… that is until Prince Mestor demanded more from him than duty. Unable to fathom why Mestor would want a widowed older warrior, Sohm'lan maintains his distance believing Mestor will eventually choose an amor closer in age and experience, even though the thought causes him more pain than it should.
Prince Mestor is tired of pretending and his patience is eroding. He needs Sohm'lan to see past their respective ranks and duties to who Mestor is underneath it all. Worried Sohm'lan will be lost to him if he pushes too hard, Mestor and Sohm'lan are caught in a dance of denied desires and tangled obligations.
Warlord Sohm'lan and Prince Mestor struggle to find a way to their heart's desire against the backdrop of galactic conspiracies, the dangerous mission escorting the Fal'Amoric royals, and discoveries within the Vondorian family that threaten to tear apart everything they hold dear. The two of them stand together to fight the coming battle whatever the consequences.
Chief Warlord Sohm'lan has a job he loves protecting the family who claims him as one of their own. He has known the loss of a mate and believed he would walk alone for the rest of his life… that is until Prince Mestor demanded more from him than duty. Unable to fathom why Mestor would want a widowed older warrior, Sohm'lan maintains his distance believing Mestor will eventually choose an amor closer in age and experience, even though the thought causes him more pain than it should.
Prince Mestor is tired of pretending and his patience is eroding. He needs Sohm'lan to see past their respective ranks and duties to who Mestor is underneath it all. Worried Sohm'lan will be lost to him if he pushes too hard, Mestor and Sohm'lan are caught in a dance of denied desires and tangled obligations.
Warlord Sohm'lan and Prince Mestor struggle to find a way to their heart's desire against the backdrop of galactic conspiracies, the dangerous mission escorting the Fal'Amoric royals, and discoveries within the Vondorian family that threaten to tear apart everything they hold dear. The two of them stand together to fight the coming battle whatever the consequences.
888 pages, ebook
First published March 18, 2020
40 people are currently reading
182 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 83 reviews
February 28, 2021
Reread February 2021
Wow, I can't believe it's only been a year since I read this. I had forgotten how long it is. Over 800 pages! Oh how I love there characters. I can't wait to see where they're all going to go and the new ones coming.
Originally read February 2020
Oh man! Do you even know how excited I was to get an ARC of this book? I feel like I've waited forever for the next installment in the Valespian Pact series. I've reread books 1 & 2, too many times to count.
Lexi Ander's mind must be a fascinating place. There are so many different peoples and worlds it's unreal. But in this installment, things are running parallel with books 1 & 2, mainly from Sohm'lan and Mestor's POV. We get some of the other characters' POV such as Ashari, Canry and Shaneva and even Zeus. But it's nice to see sort of "behind the scenes" of what's going on.
This book wrecked me. It tore me to pieces and then put me back together. There's lots of secrets revealed and things fall into place. The Bespoken still needs to be found and traitors brought to justice. But underlying it all is this big, loving family. They really made the book for me. Don't get me wrong, the romance between Sohm'lan and Mestor was beautiful. But all the characters really make the book.
The book is scheduled to be released March 20th.
Wow, I can't believe it's only been a year since I read this. I had forgotten how long it is. Over 800 pages! Oh how I love there characters. I can't wait to see where they're all going to go and the new ones coming.
Originally read February 2020
Oh man! Do you even know how excited I was to get an ARC of this book? I feel like I've waited forever for the next installment in the Valespian Pact series. I've reread books 1 & 2, too many times to count.
Lexi Ander's mind must be a fascinating place. There are so many different peoples and worlds it's unreal. But in this installment, things are running parallel with books 1 & 2, mainly from Sohm'lan and Mestor's POV. We get some of the other characters' POV such as Ashari, Canry and Shaneva and even Zeus. But it's nice to see sort of "behind the scenes" of what's going on.
This book wrecked me. It tore me to pieces and then put me back together. There's lots of secrets revealed and things fall into place. The Bespoken still needs to be found and traitors brought to justice. But underlying it all is this big, loving family. They really made the book for me. Don't get me wrong, the romance between Sohm'lan and Mestor was beautiful. But all the characters really make the book.
The book is scheduled to be released March 20th.
March 6, 2020
SPOILER FREE Review
The Valespian Pact series is one of my all-time favorites and Constant lives up to the legacy of the first two books.
Sohm and Mestor are a fantastic foil to the Alpha Trine of Dargon, Alpha, and Zeus. Their relationship is one of patience, changing dynamics, and all about second chances and learning how to love beyond grief. We get more of the main characters, new characters, and some satisfying ends to characters that had me cheering.
The story jumps seamlessly between childhood moments of the Vondorian royal family, with Shaneva, Canry, Mestor, and others getting POV chapters, filling in the vast and complicated foundations of the series. The majority of the book focuses on Mestor and Sohm, though, so no worries about too much happening that isn't the main characters. The story spans decades, with great reveals that fill in open questions created in Alpha Trine and Striker.
The mythos of this universe is expanded, flushed out, and details that supply a great base for what's to come in the future, and the YESSS moments had me cheering!
The relationship between Sohm and Mestor is engaging, poignant, respectful, and heated with great chemistry.
I absolutely enjoyed this book and the length of 250,000 words just flew by--I wanted more! I consider this book to be one of the masterpieces of the LGBTQ+ scifi genre and it does not disappoint.
The Valespian Pact series is one of my all-time favorites and Constant lives up to the legacy of the first two books.
Sohm and Mestor are a fantastic foil to the Alpha Trine of Dargon, Alpha, and Zeus. Their relationship is one of patience, changing dynamics, and all about second chances and learning how to love beyond grief. We get more of the main characters, new characters, and some satisfying ends to characters that had me cheering.
The story jumps seamlessly between childhood moments of the Vondorian royal family, with Shaneva, Canry, Mestor, and others getting POV chapters, filling in the vast and complicated foundations of the series. The majority of the book focuses on Mestor and Sohm, though, so no worries about too much happening that isn't the main characters. The story spans decades, with great reveals that fill in open questions created in Alpha Trine and Striker.
The mythos of this universe is expanded, flushed out, and details that supply a great base for what's to come in the future, and the YESSS moments had me cheering!
The relationship between Sohm and Mestor is engaging, poignant, respectful, and heated with great chemistry.
I absolutely enjoyed this book and the length of 250,000 words just flew by--I wanted more! I consider this book to be one of the masterpieces of the LGBTQ+ scifi genre and it does not disappoint.
March 8, 2020
This was one of the best books I have ever read. Despite its longevity it was so easy to read, so engrossing and so well balanced. In Striker we got a glimpse of Mar'Sani people, but here we got the full picture - their history, way of life, their beliefs and what makes them such an extraordinary race of people.
The relationship between Sohm'lan and Mestor is seamlessly interwoven into the story of political intrigue, intergalactic fights and Mar'Sani people finding themselves. It was tender, sweet, at times possessive but always so loving. Those two are incredibly suited to each other in strength, convictions, honor and passion. I loved reading their moments together.
The author created this amazing world steeped in traditions and rituals. I couldn't stop reading about it. The descriptions were so vivid, the Mar'Sani people were so diverse in their deeds and thoughts, it was like submerging oneself into another dimension where everything was so vibrant and colorful. The Vondorian royal family is one of most wonderful families, their bonds and connections to each other are tested by time, power and deceit but nothing can diminish their love and acceptance. I freaking loved this book so much. The many POVs gave me a chance to see the story through different eyes from different angles, and it was so much richer because of that. Some moments were breathtaking and I reread them over and over. This was an incredible story about a unique race of people who love like no other, fight the hardest and never leave their own behind. Bravo! Well earned praise and 5+ stars from me. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
The relationship between Sohm'lan and Mestor is seamlessly interwoven into the story of political intrigue, intergalactic fights and Mar'Sani people finding themselves. It was tender, sweet, at times possessive but always so loving. Those two are incredibly suited to each other in strength, convictions, honor and passion. I loved reading their moments together.
The author created this amazing world steeped in traditions and rituals. I couldn't stop reading about it. The descriptions were so vivid, the Mar'Sani people were so diverse in their deeds and thoughts, it was like submerging oneself into another dimension where everything was so vibrant and colorful. The Vondorian royal family is one of most wonderful families, their bonds and connections to each other are tested by time, power and deceit but nothing can diminish their love and acceptance. I freaking loved this book so much. The many POVs gave me a chance to see the story through different eyes from different angles, and it was so much richer because of that. Some moments were breathtaking and I reread them over and over. This was an incredible story about a unique race of people who love like no other, fight the hardest and never leave their own behind. Bravo! Well earned praise and 5+ stars from me. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
November 27, 2021
Rating: 4.5 stars
While I didn’t like it quite as much as I did the first two in the series, I still really loved this book. Yes it was long and much of it took place during the events of the previous books, but still I loved all of it. I loved Sohm'lan and Mestor. I loved that we got multiple perspectives. Not just the two MCs. I loved getting more insight to the events behind the scenes from the previous books. I do think the author retconned some things and a few small things didn’t seem to totally add up, but it didn’t stop my enjoyment of the story. All in all, a wonderful addition to the series. I am looking forward to finally getting the Bespoken story. Hopefully, it will come a lot sooner than this one did.
While I didn’t like it quite as much as I did the first two in the series, I still really loved this book. Yes it was long and much of it took place during the events of the previous books, but still I loved all of it. I loved Sohm'lan and Mestor. I loved that we got multiple perspectives. Not just the two MCs. I loved getting more insight to the events behind the scenes from the previous books. I do think the author retconned some things and a few small things didn’t seem to totally add up, but it didn’t stop my enjoyment of the story. All in all, a wonderful addition to the series. I am looking forward to finally getting the Bespoken story. Hopefully, it will come a lot sooner than this one did.
March 22, 2020
Read this review and more on the blog!
4.5 stars
The third book in the Valespian Pact series introduces even more intergalactic intrigues and convoluted family dynamics while focussing on the members of the Vondorian family.
Content warnings include: violence and graphic injury, torture, past torture of children, child abuse, intense xenophobia & bigotry resulting in the brutally enforced isolation of an entire people, child gets orphaned and subsequently adopted, sex on-page, exile; mentions of unconsensual surgery on intersex child.
Alpha Trine absolutely hooked me, and Striker was just as good, so it was a no-brainer for me to read Constant, despite it having different protagonist. Constant plays parallel to Striker and a huge chunk is pretty much the exact same events happening, just told from another POV and with an entirely different focus.
Despite knowing many of the events already, it was never boring. A lot of the big things from Striker were not described as in depth, instead elaborating on what happened in between those key events or to another character at the time.
Technically, Constant could be read as a stand-alone, as it repeats pretty much everything that happened in the series thus far, but I do recommend reading the prequels first. The world of the Valespian Pact is just so huge and encompassing, so complex and convoluted, in all aspects of worldbuilding, backstory, plot and character dynamics that I cannot imagine understanding the events of Constant without such a previous knowledge.
That said, not everything lined up with the prequels. There are a couple small details in Constant that are different from Striker, but it wasn't a too big distraction, and makes more sense this way anyways.
The protagonists of Constant are Warlord Sohm'lan and Mestor, but the book focusses a lot on the Vondorian family as a whole. There are a lot of flashbacks to the siblings' childhood, and several family members, like Ashari, Shaneva, Canry, Zeus and Azaes get POV chapters as well. I loved how important and connected the entire family was, though some of the personal character arcs felt out of place or mistimed, particulalry Zeus's in combination with what happened in Striker.
The book is long . Like, really long. As such there are quite a few plotlines, both over-arching and self-contained sequential ones. I was a bit thrown by one that popped up around the middle of the book and then pulled pretty much the entire focus, almost completely pushing the overarching plot around the lost Bespoken, the Grid and V'Saar into the background. It was still a cool plot however.
The romantic subplot was mainly focussed on Sohm'lan and Mestor, and I was a bit apprehensive about it since Sohm'lan is Mestor's "waterfather", basically his godfather, and played a big role in raising him. This age difference was handled well, though, and helped by Mestor being in his thirties at the time of the book and when the two get together.
Several side couples and triads are also mentioned or develop a bit.
That said, the romance, and particularly the sexual part of it, was way less in the foreground than in the previous two books. While there are sex scenes, they were less detailed and shorter than the ones in Alpha Trine.
Personally I did not mind that, and I found Mar'Sani sex interesting as their biology differes a bit from humans (though they are still humanoid.)
Generally, as I have mentioned before, the aliens and alien cultures are one of the things that make me love the series. The Mar'Sani in particular are in the foreground, but there were a lot of glimpses into other species. I especially liked the Dire D'Noss. I also liked small details like humans being obsessed with a species that look like dolphins and regularly beg to be put in contact with them.
Humor such as that is a frequent occurence - despite the dark touches and content, I wouldn't say the series is especially dark or heavy.
Overall I loved the book. The series quickly wormed its way into my heart, and I love its focus on family. The plot is so interesting and I enjoy it despite how tangled and far stretching it is. It doesn't always make sense or align perfectly, but I'm absoltely hooked and looking forward to the sequels, because hoooo boy there are still so many unanwered questions and loose plot threads!
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
4.5 stars
The third book in the Valespian Pact series introduces even more intergalactic intrigues and convoluted family dynamics while focussing on the members of the Vondorian family.
Content warnings include: violence and graphic injury, torture, past torture of children, child abuse, intense xenophobia & bigotry resulting in the brutally enforced isolation of an entire people, child gets orphaned and subsequently adopted, sex on-page, exile; mentions of unconsensual surgery on intersex child.
Alpha Trine absolutely hooked me, and Striker was just as good, so it was a no-brainer for me to read Constant, despite it having different protagonist. Constant plays parallel to Striker and a huge chunk is pretty much the exact same events happening, just told from another POV and with an entirely different focus.
Despite knowing many of the events already, it was never boring. A lot of the big things from Striker were not described as in depth, instead elaborating on what happened in between those key events or to another character at the time.
Technically, Constant could be read as a stand-alone, as it repeats pretty much everything that happened in the series thus far, but I do recommend reading the prequels first. The world of the Valespian Pact is just so huge and encompassing, so complex and convoluted, in all aspects of worldbuilding, backstory, plot and character dynamics that I cannot imagine understanding the events of Constant without such a previous knowledge.
That said, not everything lined up with the prequels. There are a couple small details in Constant that are different from Striker, but it wasn't a too big distraction, and makes more sense this way anyways.
The protagonists of Constant are Warlord Sohm'lan and Mestor, but the book focusses a lot on the Vondorian family as a whole. There are a lot of flashbacks to the siblings' childhood, and several family members, like Ashari, Shaneva, Canry, Zeus and Azaes get POV chapters as well. I loved how important and connected the entire family was, though some of the personal character arcs felt out of place or mistimed, particulalry Zeus's in combination with what happened in Striker.
The book is long . Like, really long. As such there are quite a few plotlines, both over-arching and self-contained sequential ones. I was a bit thrown by one that popped up around the middle of the book and then pulled pretty much the entire focus, almost completely pushing the overarching plot around the lost Bespoken, the Grid and V'Saar into the background. It was still a cool plot however.
The romantic subplot was mainly focussed on Sohm'lan and Mestor, and I was a bit apprehensive about it since Sohm'lan is Mestor's "waterfather", basically his godfather, and played a big role in raising him. This age difference was handled well, though, and helped by Mestor being in his thirties at the time of the book and when the two get together.
Several side couples and triads are also mentioned or develop a bit.
That said, the romance, and particularly the sexual part of it, was way less in the foreground than in the previous two books. While there are sex scenes, they were less detailed and shorter than the ones in Alpha Trine.
Personally I did not mind that, and I found Mar'Sani sex interesting as their biology differes a bit from humans (though they are still humanoid.)
Generally, as I have mentioned before, the aliens and alien cultures are one of the things that make me love the series. The Mar'Sani in particular are in the foreground, but there were a lot of glimpses into other species. I especially liked the Dire D'Noss. I also liked small details like humans being obsessed with a species that look like dolphins and regularly beg to be put in contact with them.
Humor such as that is a frequent occurence - despite the dark touches and content, I wouldn't say the series is especially dark or heavy.
Overall I loved the book. The series quickly wormed its way into my heart, and I love its focus on family. The plot is so interesting and I enjoy it despite how tangled and far stretching it is. It doesn't always make sense or align perfectly, but I'm absoltely hooked and looking forward to the sequels, because hoooo boy there are still so many unanwered questions and loose plot threads!
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 31, 2023
To naprawdę było zaskoczenie. Wnioskując po dwóch poprzednich częściach, założyłam, że to będzie krótkie, niedopracowane i momentami bez sensu, ale wciągające. Okazało się jednak, że w czasie bardzo długiej przerwy między częścią 2 a 3 autorka poprawiła swój warsztat. Historia jest trzykrotnie dłuższa niż poprzednie, dzięki czemu relacje miłosne mogły zostać dopracowane. Fabuła jak zwykle jest wciągająca i zawiera tylko jeden moment, w którym coś mi się nie zgadzało. Być może reszty nie zauważyłam, bo tak dobrze mi się czytało.
Pół gwiazdki odejmuję za momentami rozwlekły styl i zbędne powtórzenia.
4,5 gwiazdki.
Pół gwiazdki odejmuję za momentami rozwlekły styl i zbędne powtórzenia.
4,5 gwiazdki.
March 6, 2020
I seriously love this series. Constant follows Sohm and Mestor, they were in the background of the first two books but now they get to step into the forefront. This is woven seamlessly into the first books as it covers previous events from a different perspective through fresh eyes. The world-building is top-notch and the storyline for these amazing characters had me glued to my tablet. I highly recommend this thoroughly entertaining story, really I recommend the entire series.
March 21, 2020
very good and interesting.. fast paced.. action packed.. made me curious and kept me interested.. i really liked it. and the characters were wonderful.
April 7, 2020
This book was epic, in both scope and awesomeness! I’m truly having a hard time getting all my thoughts together to tell everyone how great of a story this is!
Book 3 in the Valespian Pact series, Constant takes place during the events of Striker (book 2) and immediately after. While the main couple of the book is Mestor and Sahm’lan (both of whom I ADORE!), this book is so much more than a story about their relationship.
As the book goes through new POVs of events from Striker, the audience gets to experience the story from a whole new perspective! There are so many secrets and plot twists to discover!
As Mestor and Sohm’lan work their way towards becoming lovers, Constant really hammers home the value of family in this series. The whole Vondorian family plays such a heavy role and I loved seeing this amazingly strong family work together to save their people and ultimately, the universe.
I also really loved getting to know Sohm’lan better. All the flashbacks to him with the Vondorian children were so cute and heartbreaking at times. It made me appreciate Mestor’s slow courtship of Sohm all the more!
Ander does such great world-building in this series and Constant is no different! With new POVs, family secrets, and new revelations, Constant is a fantastic addition to this enthralling series.
5 Stars
Book 3 in the Valespian Pact series, Constant takes place during the events of Striker (book 2) and immediately after. While the main couple of the book is Mestor and Sahm’lan (both of whom I ADORE!), this book is so much more than a story about their relationship.
As the book goes through new POVs of events from Striker, the audience gets to experience the story from a whole new perspective! There are so many secrets and plot twists to discover!
As Mestor and Sohm’lan work their way towards becoming lovers, Constant really hammers home the value of family in this series. The whole Vondorian family plays such a heavy role and I loved seeing this amazingly strong family work together to save their people and ultimately, the universe.
I also really loved getting to know Sohm’lan better. All the flashbacks to him with the Vondorian children were so cute and heartbreaking at times. It made me appreciate Mestor’s slow courtship of Sohm all the more!
Ander does such great world-building in this series and Constant is no different! With new POVs, family secrets, and new revelations, Constant is a fantastic addition to this enthralling series.
5 Stars
April 14, 2020
Very impressed with this third book in the series. Lexi Ander has kept up the top-notch quality of writing, imagination, characters and story development.
March 26, 2020
*I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review, so here it is.
I have no words to describe how much I love this book. I’ve been a fan of this series for a long time, I’ve lost count of how many times I have reread the first two books, I feel like I know them from memory by know.
This is a pretty long book (around 250K) and I read it a couple of times so I could really absorb the details and world building, there are so many interesting species and characters. I’m sure I’ll discover new things and little hidden details when I read it again.
First thing you have to know, although the romantic part of this book is fulfilled by Mestor and Sohm’lan, this book is so much more than that, it’s about the Vondorians as a family, their dynamics and interactions, and specially their unconditional love for each other; it’s also about the whole Atlantician people, their culture, their struggles as a people and how they persevere through all obstacles to get to the right path.
I find the book is naturally divided in two parts, the first one occurs simultaneously with the events in striker, but told in Mestor and Sohm’s POV. In Striker we only get Zeus and Dargon’s POV, and in the case of the famous battle only Zeus’, so for me it’s great we can widen our perspective on this by getting how Sohm’lan and Mestor perceive all these events.
We see a totally different side of Sohm, although we know he has an immense respect and loyalty for the royal family and specially Zeus, we always saw him as a Warlord, stoic and silent; in this book we get to know him as a really cose friend of Valdor and Ashari and as the kits waterfather, which according to their culture is a pretty important role in de youngling’s life, we can see he is practically a third parent for the kits and they adore him so much. One thing I love about Lexi’s books is that she evokes such feeling in her scenes.... I can’t with the feels... they are great hahaha....
We also get to know more of Mestor... From the previous books we know he has a temper, he is extremely protective of Zeus, he is a bit of a playboy, and both him and Azaes are a couple of troublemakers since they were kits, a trait that hasn’t gone away with adulthood. Most of this traits remain, but we get to find out why he became a playboy and the length and depth of his love and commitment to Sohn’lam.
This first part is where we see their relationship develop, how much Mestor had to work for it, Sohm’lan realizing he had feelings for Mestor and his struggle to accept them, his everlasting love for his late mate and youngling and how this affected his budding feelings and decisions. It’s nice how thoughtful Mestor is about the importance they still have in Sohm’s life.
At this point in the book their relationship is a bit more solidified, now the author makes us look at other thing, other very important and very wrong things that are occurring in the life of the Vondorian family and the people of the longing, and this is how we tie this first part with the second half. The conflict with the Numina people and the people of the shore, brought to attention by Shaneva and Canry.
I won’t talk about much of this part because I don’t think I can’t not reveal anything important that will spoil it, but suffice it to say that, for me, this was the best part. This it’s full of action, can’t-let-go-of-it-till-I-finish action, and we get to see soooooo many cute and endearing moments, I cannot tell you, seriously.... However not all is cute, we have a healthy dose of bigotry, Xenophobia and violence, but I feel it was handled very well in the book.
That being said, and here’s my absolute favorite part, there’s a NINJA NANNY!!!! OMG, I never thought I would think of this two words together, but now I can’t get enough of them.... We get some pretty awesome revelations that I’m sure will have great impact in the future books, Zeus and alpha are awesome, and we finally see the kits, YAY!!! The cuteness killed me.
I wish I could do justice to the book in this review, but there’re so many things I’d like to talk about that there’s just not enough space. I highly recommend this book, you will love it. However I have to say that this is not meat to be read as a standalone, if you haven’t read alpha trine and striker you are going to be pretty lost, so take that into consideration and go grab them.
I’m happily waiting for the next book in the series because this one left me, and I think not just me, with so many questions. It explained a lot from previous books, but also raised a million more questions that I can’t wait to get the answers to.
I have no words to describe how much I love this book. I’ve been a fan of this series for a long time, I’ve lost count of how many times I have reread the first two books, I feel like I know them from memory by know.
This is a pretty long book (around 250K) and I read it a couple of times so I could really absorb the details and world building, there are so many interesting species and characters. I’m sure I’ll discover new things and little hidden details when I read it again.
First thing you have to know, although the romantic part of this book is fulfilled by Mestor and Sohm’lan, this book is so much more than that, it’s about the Vondorians as a family, their dynamics and interactions, and specially their unconditional love for each other; it’s also about the whole Atlantician people, their culture, their struggles as a people and how they persevere through all obstacles to get to the right path.
I find the book is naturally divided in two parts, the first one occurs simultaneously with the events in striker, but told in Mestor and Sohm’s POV. In Striker we only get Zeus and Dargon’s POV, and in the case of the famous battle only Zeus’, so for me it’s great we can widen our perspective on this by getting how Sohm’lan and Mestor perceive all these events.
We see a totally different side of Sohm, although we know he has an immense respect and loyalty for the royal family and specially Zeus, we always saw him as a Warlord, stoic and silent; in this book we get to know him as a really cose friend of Valdor and Ashari and as the kits waterfather, which according to their culture is a pretty important role in de youngling’s life, we can see he is practically a third parent for the kits and they adore him so much. One thing I love about Lexi’s books is that she evokes such feeling in her scenes.... I can’t with the feels... they are great hahaha....
We also get to know more of Mestor... From the previous books we know he has a temper, he is extremely protective of Zeus, he is a bit of a playboy, and both him and Azaes are a couple of troublemakers since they were kits, a trait that hasn’t gone away with adulthood. Most of this traits remain, but we get to find out why he became a playboy and the length and depth of his love and commitment to Sohn’lam.
This first part is where we see their relationship develop, how much Mestor had to work for it, Sohm’lan realizing he had feelings for Mestor and his struggle to accept them, his everlasting love for his late mate and youngling and how this affected his budding feelings and decisions. It’s nice how thoughtful Mestor is about the importance they still have in Sohm’s life.
At this point in the book their relationship is a bit more solidified, now the author makes us look at other thing, other very important and very wrong things that are occurring in the life of the Vondorian family and the people of the longing, and this is how we tie this first part with the second half. The conflict with the Numina people and the people of the shore, brought to attention by Shaneva and Canry.
I won’t talk about much of this part because I don’t think I can’t not reveal anything important that will spoil it, but suffice it to say that, for me, this was the best part. This it’s full of action, can’t-let-go-of-it-till-I-finish action, and we get to see soooooo many cute and endearing moments, I cannot tell you, seriously.... However not all is cute, we have a healthy dose of bigotry, Xenophobia and violence, but I feel it was handled very well in the book.
That being said, and here’s my absolute favorite part, there’s a NINJA NANNY!!!! OMG, I never thought I would think of this two words together, but now I can’t get enough of them.... We get some pretty awesome revelations that I’m sure will have great impact in the future books, Zeus and alpha are awesome, and we finally see the kits, YAY!!! The cuteness killed me.
I wish I could do justice to the book in this review, but there’re so many things I’d like to talk about that there’s just not enough space. I highly recommend this book, you will love it. However I have to say that this is not meat to be read as a standalone, if you haven’t read alpha trine and striker you are going to be pretty lost, so take that into consideration and go grab them.
I’m happily waiting for the next book in the series because this one left me, and I think not just me, with so many questions. It explained a lot from previous books, but also raised a million more questions that I can’t wait to get the answers to.
March 22, 2020
First off, don't let the size of this book scare you away. The majority of the first half is told concurrently with the events from book two of The Valespian Pact, Striker. The focus has shifted from Zeus, Dargon, Alpha, and their circle, to Chief Warlord Sohm'lan, Prince Mestor, and the Vondorian family as a whole. Once the backstory has been filled in, the two story arcs merge, and our cast of characters are once again ready to defend their families and their people.
I cannot express what a pleasure it is reading these books. The author has an imagination with which they are able to bring magical species to colorful and brilliant life from the pages. It's truly fantastic. In addition, they also know how to make sure you feel every emotion the characters feel, from joy to the utter terror of rejection or loss. A lot of details from the past are revealed that have remained closely held secrets, even from those who needed the knowledge most. But choices had to be made, and those in power often face the most difficult.
Mestor has been trying to get Sohm'lan's attention since he was fifteen summers. However, as Sohm'lan lived in ignorance of his Waterson's attentions, he never forgot his past. When he could no longer ignore Mestor, and finally gave in to his pursuit, the claim between the two was immediate and possessive.
Many things, from medical advancement to history returning to Atlainticia, happen in this action packed story. Many changes that have been forgotten take place in order to ready each warrior for the coming battles. The enemy they face was introduced in Striker, but the reader learns exactly what vile and reprehensible creatures they truly are in this book.
The denouement of the storyline happens in two phases. One on land, and one in the deep. But, again, a decision had to be made, and one warrior shows his true love of his mate, family, and people, by putting it all on the line for the chance to reach the ear of the being needed to end this divide and abuse on Atlainticia.
There is also Kryp, the Dire D'Noss spy, who takes on an entirely new role in the second half of this book. I can't leave him out, because I just adore him and what he brings to Mestor and Sohm'lan's lives, but you have to read the book to find out about him and his charge.
I am waiting with bated breath for the next story, as the search for the Bespoken takes off. I truly can't recommend this series enough. The imagery in my head often brings to mind the brilliance of the creatures from the movie Avatar. To me, sci-fi/fantasy writing does not get much better world building than that.
Happy reading!
* I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my honest review. *
I cannot express what a pleasure it is reading these books. The author has an imagination with which they are able to bring magical species to colorful and brilliant life from the pages. It's truly fantastic. In addition, they also know how to make sure you feel every emotion the characters feel, from joy to the utter terror of rejection or loss. A lot of details from the past are revealed that have remained closely held secrets, even from those who needed the knowledge most. But choices had to be made, and those in power often face the most difficult.
Mestor has been trying to get Sohm'lan's attention since he was fifteen summers. However, as Sohm'lan lived in ignorance of his Waterson's attentions, he never forgot his past. When he could no longer ignore Mestor, and finally gave in to his pursuit, the claim between the two was immediate and possessive.
Many things, from medical advancement to history returning to Atlainticia, happen in this action packed story. Many changes that have been forgotten take place in order to ready each warrior for the coming battles. The enemy they face was introduced in Striker, but the reader learns exactly what vile and reprehensible creatures they truly are in this book.
The denouement of the storyline happens in two phases. One on land, and one in the deep. But, again, a decision had to be made, and one warrior shows his true love of his mate, family, and people, by putting it all on the line for the chance to reach the ear of the being needed to end this divide and abuse on Atlainticia.
There is also Kryp, the Dire D'Noss spy, who takes on an entirely new role in the second half of this book. I can't leave him out, because I just adore him and what he brings to Mestor and Sohm'lan's lives, but you have to read the book to find out about him and his charge.
I am waiting with bated breath for the next story, as the search for the Bespoken takes off. I truly can't recommend this series enough. The imagery in my head often brings to mind the brilliance of the creatures from the movie Avatar. To me, sci-fi/fantasy writing does not get much better world building than that.
Happy reading!
* I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my honest review. *
October 7, 2023
Wow this book is long, but it did hold my attention. It is obviously a labor of LOVE for the author, and I really liked getting a more in depth look at events that were happening or mentioned in Striker.
I think with all the characters and species that populate this world, it is highly helpful to read these books back to back. Though, I'm not terribly fond of rereading books; I reread the 1st 2 books. It definitely made a difference. Even with rereading, I was extremely grateful for my Kindle which makes brushing up on who a character is so quick & easy.
Lots of storylines were moved forward or found resolution, but these were all ones on the homeworld. Nothing was moved forward towards finding the Bespoke and/or saving the grid. At over 800 pages, I think some might find that discouraging. I would have liked a little more progress, but I was not bothered by the lack of it either. I think more "pieces" were put in place that will be needed for the resolution.
I loved the kits and some other added family including the"Nanny". I'm happy Zeus and his family all got some much needed closure from their pasts and continued to heal plus grow.
The 4th book is out. I will probably go ahead and read it now while it's fresh, though there is supposed to be at least 1 more book at this point. That will be very frustrating on the memory whenever that comes out. As much as I liked it, I do not see me re-reading this 800+ pages tome.
One thing that should be kept in mind is not only do I love reading, but I love science fiction by far the most. This was right up my alley. If sweeping sagas and/or fantasy space operas are not your thing, then this might be a slog.
Update, I am most definitely not reading the next book. It apparently is more a prequel, and once again, does not move the current timeline forward. Nope. Just nope to over 1500 pages and not going forward.
I think with all the characters and species that populate this world, it is highly helpful to read these books back to back. Though, I'm not terribly fond of rereading books; I reread the 1st 2 books. It definitely made a difference. Even with rereading, I was extremely grateful for my Kindle which makes brushing up on who a character is so quick & easy.
Lots of storylines were moved forward or found resolution, but these were all ones on the homeworld. Nothing was moved forward towards finding the Bespoke and/or saving the grid. At over 800 pages, I think some might find that discouraging. I would have liked a little more progress, but I was not bothered by the lack of it either. I think more "pieces" were put in place that will be needed for the resolution.
I loved the kits and some other added family including the"Nanny". I'm happy Zeus and his family all got some much needed closure from their pasts and continued to heal plus grow.
The 4th book is out. I will probably go ahead and read it now while it's fresh, though there is supposed to be at least 1 more book at this point. That will be very frustrating on the memory whenever that comes out. As much as I liked it, I do not see me re-reading this 800+ pages tome.
One thing that should be kept in mind is not only do I love reading, but I love science fiction by far the most. This was right up my alley. If sweeping sagas and/or fantasy space operas are not your thing, then this might be a slog.
Update, I am most definitely not reading the next book. It apparently is more a prequel, and once again, does not move the current timeline forward. Nope. Just nope to over 1500 pages and not going forward.
March 19, 2020
I was so very excited to get an ARC of this book!!! This series is one of my all-time favorites and one I constantly re-read when I need a pick-me-up; now I can add Constant to that list. To be able to get a sneak peak at the third book in the series was…words can’t express it! This book was amazing in many way, as not only do we get to see and understand more about the Mar’Sani and Atlainticia’s myths and legends, but we also get a glimpse into the awesomeness that is Lexi Ander’s mind.
The first two-thirds or so of the book mainly takes place along the same time as events in Striker, but the glorious part is that the third book in the series gives us insights into what was going on outside of events that were mainly seen from Zeus’ and/or Dargon’s point of views. Constant gives us POVs from most of the Vondorian family, as well as a few other key characters, and although the plot is similar to what took place in Striker, it feels like a different story because we get to see all the side stories that happened while others were going on at the same time, thereby fleshing out more details and filling in some questions that had been brought up in Striker but either never really addressed or kinda overlooked.
The last third of the book continues past the events of Striker, and fleshes out some of the mysteries of Atlainticia’s history, the Ancients’ origins, and the building war with the V’Saar. Throughout the book, it was an emotional rollercoaster as some secrets were finally revealed and the emotional toll that took on everyone involved. That is not to say that there aren’t still lots of secrets and questions tantalizingly left unanswered. It was very hard to put down and I look forward to re-reading it to savor again all the nuances that Ander expertly weaves into all her stories.
I especially look forward to how she keeps developing the interaction and interconnection of the different species. I mean, there is still the Bespoken to be found and traitors to be brought to justice and practice to make perfect. There is still a lot of work to be done by our friends and still so many pieces of the puzzle that just don’t fit. Constant just made me that more excited to see what is in store in the fourth book…
The first two-thirds or so of the book mainly takes place along the same time as events in Striker, but the glorious part is that the third book in the series gives us insights into what was going on outside of events that were mainly seen from Zeus’ and/or Dargon’s point of views. Constant gives us POVs from most of the Vondorian family, as well as a few other key characters, and although the plot is similar to what took place in Striker, it feels like a different story because we get to see all the side stories that happened while others were going on at the same time, thereby fleshing out more details and filling in some questions that had been brought up in Striker but either never really addressed or kinda overlooked.
The last third of the book continues past the events of Striker, and fleshes out some of the mysteries of Atlainticia’s history, the Ancients’ origins, and the building war with the V’Saar. Throughout the book, it was an emotional rollercoaster as some secrets were finally revealed and the emotional toll that took on everyone involved. That is not to say that there aren’t still lots of secrets and questions tantalizingly left unanswered. It was very hard to put down and I look forward to re-reading it to savor again all the nuances that Ander expertly weaves into all her stories.
I especially look forward to how she keeps developing the interaction and interconnection of the different species. I mean, there is still the Bespoken to be found and traitors to be brought to justice and practice to make perfect. There is still a lot of work to be done by our friends and still so many pieces of the puzzle that just don’t fit. Constant just made me that more excited to see what is in store in the fourth book…
March 26, 2020
The wait was worth it! So, so worth it.
This is an epic tale of adventure with woven romance within. A scifi future story of survival, intrigue, betrayal and mystery.
Constant is the third book in the "The Valespian Pact". We follow the POV of Prince Mestor and Warlord Sohm`lan. Lexi Ander takes us back to key events in 'Alpha Trine' and 'Striker'. This provides us with a deeper and better understanding of what was really happening during these crucial points. Because of this, I suggest reading the books in order for the best enjoyment. As the book moves on, we see the continued search of the Bespoken, more expanding world build and the power of love (I know it sounds corny, but, truth). Yes, there is also our other favorite characters Zeus, Dragon, and Alpha throughout this book. As well as so many other characters that have made this series. But really, this is Mestor's and Sohm'lan's story. They are so cute together, that I melted.
Five stars, no doubt about it. I cried, I cheered, I laughed and I raged. I could not put this book down.
If you enjoy a fantastic world building of futuristic/scifi, of love and devotion. The struggle to solve a mystery with epic plot and storyline.
Then think about giving this series a try!
I recieved this book as a ARC for an honest review.
This is an epic tale of adventure with woven romance within. A scifi future story of survival, intrigue, betrayal and mystery.
Constant is the third book in the "The Valespian Pact". We follow the POV of Prince Mestor and Warlord Sohm`lan. Lexi Ander takes us back to key events in 'Alpha Trine' and 'Striker'. This provides us with a deeper and better understanding of what was really happening during these crucial points. Because of this, I suggest reading the books in order for the best enjoyment. As the book moves on, we see the continued search of the Bespoken, more expanding world build and the power of love (I know it sounds corny, but, truth). Yes, there is also our other favorite characters Zeus, Dragon, and Alpha throughout this book. As well as so many other characters that have made this series. But really, this is Mestor's and Sohm'lan's story. They are so cute together, that I melted.
Five stars, no doubt about it. I cried, I cheered, I laughed and I raged. I could not put this book down.
If you enjoy a fantastic world building of futuristic/scifi, of love and devotion. The struggle to solve a mystery with epic plot and storyline.
Then think about giving this series a try!
I recieved this book as a ARC for an honest review.
March 23, 2020
Worth the wait!
This book is an amazing addition to one of my favorite series! The main focus of this book is the love story of Mestor and Sohm’lan. The love story was very sweet. The love between them grew naturally from mentor-ship, to friendship, to romantic love. The whole book is a story about the love for each other that this family has and the lengths they will go to for each other.
This story is not just Mestor and Sohm’lan's romance story, though. This book continues the progression of the overarching story line about the missing Bespoken and the possible collapse of the Grid. Although not the main focus of the story the hints of information about the missing Bespoken and the glimpses into the continuing love story of Zeus and Dargon make this an even better read.
The world building in this book is incredible. Lexi is able to immerse you in the story and to give information about the culture and planet of the Mar'Sani without info dumping. This book is a great addition to the series because it gives depth to the world that Lexi is building and makes the reader even more invested in the continuation of the series.
All in all this book was an amazing read that I couldn't put down and I stayed up all night to finish. Even at eight hundred some pages the book wasn't long enough. I love the world that Lexi has built and I can't wait for the next installment.
This book is an amazing addition to one of my favorite series! The main focus of this book is the love story of Mestor and Sohm’lan. The love story was very sweet. The love between them grew naturally from mentor-ship, to friendship, to romantic love. The whole book is a story about the love for each other that this family has and the lengths they will go to for each other.
This story is not just Mestor and Sohm’lan's romance story, though. This book continues the progression of the overarching story line about the missing Bespoken and the possible collapse of the Grid. Although not the main focus of the story the hints of information about the missing Bespoken and the glimpses into the continuing love story of Zeus and Dargon make this an even better read.
The world building in this book is incredible. Lexi is able to immerse you in the story and to give information about the culture and planet of the Mar'Sani without info dumping. This book is a great addition to the series because it gives depth to the world that Lexi is building and makes the reader even more invested in the continuation of the series.
All in all this book was an amazing read that I couldn't put down and I stayed up all night to finish. Even at eight hundred some pages the book wasn't long enough. I love the world that Lexi has built and I can't wait for the next installment.
March 7, 2020
This is an amazing sequel to Alpha Trine and Striker in the Valespian Pact series. It can be read as a standalone of sorts but is significantly better if you’ve read the first two books.
Alpha Trine was like dipping your toe into water. With Striker, you are immersed up to your knees in a beautiful lake. Now, in Constant, I feel like we are up to our chest in a breathtaking bay that’s beckoning you further into the ocean beyond.
Story
This is more or less a story of Mestor and Sohm’lan though Zeus still remain a focus from the edges of the story throughout. From prologue to about half way of the book, the events were happening in parallel to events in Striker. We get to know more about all the younglings of the royal Vondorion family and their chief warlord Sohm’lan. Things that were hidden from Zeus’s focus come to the fore here and we really get to enjoy the Mar'Sani world and events on their home planet.
What I loved
This is an epic love letter. There’s sweet childhood stories, rousing battles, wanton cruelty (which happened in the background) that causes visceral flinch and disgust for the perpetrators, uncertainty and fear for your beloved characters, secrets and mystery that slowly unravels for you and for the characters. What runs through all this is really love — love for family, love for friends, love for anyone who needs it, and of course romantic love. The overwhelming emotion you feel is love and acceptance. My heart breaks for some of the characters but I rejoice at their perseverance, their victory over their travails.
The story tied up a lot of threads from the prior two books. It is just perfectly long for me as I savor the characters I have come to love and when the story ends, my heart is full with joy, love, and satisfaction.
This story is science-fiction AND fantasy. This is an epic. This is about love, friendship, family, acceptance, honor, integrity, and heroism.
I eagerly await the next book in this series. Highly recommended.
Alpha Trine was like dipping your toe into water. With Striker, you are immersed up to your knees in a beautiful lake. Now, in Constant, I feel like we are up to our chest in a breathtaking bay that’s beckoning you further into the ocean beyond.
Story
This is more or less a story of Mestor and Sohm’lan though Zeus still remain a focus from the edges of the story throughout. From prologue to about half way of the book, the events were happening in parallel to events in Striker. We get to know more about all the younglings of the royal Vondorion family and their chief warlord Sohm’lan. Things that were hidden from Zeus’s focus come to the fore here and we really get to enjoy the Mar'Sani world and events on their home planet.
What I loved
This is an epic love letter. There’s sweet childhood stories, rousing battles, wanton cruelty (which happened in the background) that causes visceral flinch and disgust for the perpetrators, uncertainty and fear for your beloved characters, secrets and mystery that slowly unravels for you and for the characters. What runs through all this is really love — love for family, love for friends, love for anyone who needs it, and of course romantic love. The overwhelming emotion you feel is love and acceptance. My heart breaks for some of the characters but I rejoice at their perseverance, their victory over their travails.
The story tied up a lot of threads from the prior two books. It is just perfectly long for me as I savor the characters I have come to love and when the story ends, my heart is full with joy, love, and satisfaction.
This story is science-fiction AND fantasy. This is an epic. This is about love, friendship, family, acceptance, honor, integrity, and heroism.
I eagerly await the next book in this series. Highly recommended.
Read
December 4, 2021
Trigger & Content Warnings
Child abuse
Graphic physical injury
Exile
Child abuse
Graphic physical injury
Exile
March 23, 2020
Constant is the third book in the Valespian Pact Series by Lexi Ander. This book is about Somhlan and Mestors love and all of the trials and tribulations that they go through while trying to figure out their relationship. Somhlan doesn’t feel that he is a worthy bull for Mestor and feels that he is too old for the young bull. Mestor has been in love with Somhlan since he was 15, but his farsight showed him if he pushed too hard, then he would loose Somhlan for good. They both have duties that take them away from each other, but it only makes them love each other more. There are also some revelations that you will never see coming!
This book was just as awesome as the others in this series. Lexi Ander has a way with words and keeps you glued to the pages throughout the whole book. It is really hard to put the books down to get some sleep at night. I would recommend this and all books from Lexi Ander.
This book was just as awesome as the others in this series. Lexi Ander has a way with words and keeps you glued to the pages throughout the whole book. It is really hard to put the books down to get some sleep at night. I would recommend this and all books from Lexi Ander.
May 12, 2020
3 Stars - Nothing More
First off, I will say that I truly love the stories and characters that Lexi Ander creates. I have read both Alpha Trine and Striker repeatedly and loved every moment of them. This book however... is different. The story is an excellent idea, the characters have depth and show growth, and the world building is extensive. However, this book is just to long. There are so many unnecessary details and what felt like dozens of subplots that as a reader you quickly start to lose interest and feel detached. I genuinely almost stopped reading this book because of how it went on and on but I forced myself to finish it. There are many books that are over 800 pages that can keep a reader engaged until the very end, but book is not one of them. It honestly felt like this book could have been made into 3-4 books and have had a cleaner story line and managed to keep a reader entertained. At its core the characters, plot, and writing are very good so this book gets 3 stars, however nothing more.
First off, I will say that I truly love the stories and characters that Lexi Ander creates. I have read both Alpha Trine and Striker repeatedly and loved every moment of them. This book however... is different. The story is an excellent idea, the characters have depth and show growth, and the world building is extensive. However, this book is just to long. There are so many unnecessary details and what felt like dozens of subplots that as a reader you quickly start to lose interest and feel detached. I genuinely almost stopped reading this book because of how it went on and on but I forced myself to finish it. There are many books that are over 800 pages that can keep a reader engaged until the very end, but book is not one of them. It honestly felt like this book could have been made into 3-4 books and have had a cleaner story line and managed to keep a reader entertained. At its core the characters, plot, and writing are very good so this book gets 3 stars, however nothing more.
October 8, 2022
***Reread Jan 2021***
Just finished reading and already itching to pick it up again... what kind of witchery is this?
***Dec 2020***
I am addiced to Lexi Anders fantastic worlds, her loveable MC's and their tight bonds to their partners, family and friends and so much more.
I love the humor in this book so much:
Mestor regarded his father. “Why are you upset?”
“I wanted to stand beside my sons, be the blade protecting their backs.” His father was… Mestor would never, ever, say pouting, but that is what it looked like.
This book is so complex. It's not just focused on Mestor and Sohm's relationship. You get glimpses into the families past, what made them who they are today. You get to know Canry and his sister, what happened to them having to live a life separate from the rest of the family. And of corse my favorit person Kryp.
' Spinning on his heel to take care of the last two, he found Kryp standing at his back. His hand-to-hand combat was more like a dance as he protected Sohm’lan. The Dire D’Noss laughed happily, enjoying how he confounded the Basilisc who could not seem to land a strike on the youth.
“Warlord Sohm’lan!” Kryp called out excitedly. “Excellent greetings. Are we killing or incapacitating today?” '
Oh man, writing about the book just makes me want to read it all over again. Well, needs must I suppose... what a hardship 😊
Just finished reading and already itching to pick it up again... what kind of witchery is this?
***Dec 2020***
I am addiced to Lexi Anders fantastic worlds, her loveable MC's and their tight bonds to their partners, family and friends and so much more.
I love the humor in this book so much:
Mestor regarded his father. “Why are you upset?”
“I wanted to stand beside my sons, be the blade protecting their backs.” His father was… Mestor would never, ever, say pouting, but that is what it looked like.
This book is so complex. It's not just focused on Mestor and Sohm's relationship. You get glimpses into the families past, what made them who they are today. You get to know Canry and his sister, what happened to them having to live a life separate from the rest of the family. And of corse my favorit person Kryp.
' Spinning on his heel to take care of the last two, he found Kryp standing at his back. His hand-to-hand combat was more like a dance as he protected Sohm’lan. The Dire D’Noss laughed happily, enjoying how he confounded the Basilisc who could not seem to land a strike on the youth.
“Warlord Sohm’lan!” Kryp called out excitedly. “Excellent greetings. Are we killing or incapacitating today?” '
Oh man, writing about the book just makes me want to read it all over again. Well, needs must I suppose... what a hardship 😊
October 15, 2021
I’m absolutely loving this series. It’s addictive and takes you on one hell of a sci-fi adventure. The author truly outdone herself with her world building. The world she built came alive through her words and I enjoyed getting lost in its depth.
Warlord Somh’lan and Mestor were an interesting couple to watch. There were moments when I thought Somh would never come through for Mestor. Waiting for that precious moment when they come together, was definitely worth it.
There were several unexpected surprises and twists. Some were heartbreaking whereas, others made my heart swell.
The author shared many different POVs and it was done flawlessly. The story flowed beautifully and pulled me in at every turn. Many trips are made down memory lane: some filled in the missing gaps whereas, others were simply entertaining. My favourite memory was Prince Mestor wearing a smelly rat pelt on his head lol.
This was a long book but it didn’t drag.
Finally, the two kits were beautiful. Watching the kits venturing from Dargon’s pouch was adorable. The possessive quality one kit showed made me laugh.
This is a brilliant series that shouldn’t be missed.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Warlord Somh’lan and Mestor were an interesting couple to watch. There were moments when I thought Somh would never come through for Mestor. Waiting for that precious moment when they come together, was definitely worth it.
There were several unexpected surprises and twists. Some were heartbreaking whereas, others made my heart swell.
The author shared many different POVs and it was done flawlessly. The story flowed beautifully and pulled me in at every turn. Many trips are made down memory lane: some filled in the missing gaps whereas, others were simply entertaining. My favourite memory was Prince Mestor wearing a smelly rat pelt on his head lol.
This was a long book but it didn’t drag.
Finally, the two kits were beautiful. Watching the kits venturing from Dargon’s pouch was adorable. The possessive quality one kit showed made me laugh.
This is a brilliant series that shouldn’t be missed.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
March 21, 2020
3.5 stars
Epic isn’t a big enough word for this book. Lexi Ander’s imagination is vast and from it comes this complex story. Unfortunately I found it overwhelming. There are so many species and planets and characters to keep track of.
The first half of the book takes place during Striker, the second book in the series. It was cool to see another perspective but I found the very beginning more of a “previously on Valespian Pact” video montage (but in words) than part of the story. I had a really hard time getting into the narrative with two characters I hadn’t really connected with in the first two books being the MCs. As the book dragged on I began to see them differently and as the story turned to new information I began to enjoy it more.
However, there are a few unnecessary scenes that could have been released as bonus material rather than be part of this story. It would have improved pacing and shortened this huge book. However, I know there are some who will love all the details and complexity. Like I said, it is very imaginative!
Epic isn’t a big enough word for this book. Lexi Ander’s imagination is vast and from it comes this complex story. Unfortunately I found it overwhelming. There are so many species and planets and characters to keep track of.
The first half of the book takes place during Striker, the second book in the series. It was cool to see another perspective but I found the very beginning more of a “previously on Valespian Pact” video montage (but in words) than part of the story. I had a really hard time getting into the narrative with two characters I hadn’t really connected with in the first two books being the MCs. As the book dragged on I began to see them differently and as the story turned to new information I began to enjoy it more.
However, there are a few unnecessary scenes that could have been released as bonus material rather than be part of this story. It would have improved pacing and shortened this huge book. However, I know there are some who will love all the details and complexity. Like I said, it is very imaginative!
March 30, 2020
This book was not what I expected at all. The tone of this book was very different from the first two books. Alpha Trine and Striker were fairly light hearted. There were definitely some serious parts, but overall it was a happy book. Constant was much more serious and at times hard for me to read. I did like that look that we get into so many characters' lives from the first two books. The first 3rd of the book or so is also just rehashing things from the first two books in a different point of view. I ended up skimming quite a bit of it. Also, some of the backstories between the first two books and this one didn't really line up, especially Zeus's.
I really wanted to love this book as much as the first two, but it just didn't do it for me.
I really wanted to love this book as much as the first two, but it just didn't do it for me.
April 1, 2020
Loved the latest instalment of this series by Lexi Ander. The world building is amazing as are all the different "aliens".
You do need to read the previous 2 books in the series but they are more than worth the time to do so.
If you love sci-fi, different cultures and love stories this is the series for you!
You do need to read the previous 2 books in the series but they are more than worth the time to do so.
If you love sci-fi, different cultures and love stories this is the series for you!
February 4, 2021
Lexi Ander: Constant
Constant ist das dritte Buch der Serie
"The Valespian Pact.",
Ich habe sowohl # 1: "Alpha Trine",
als auch # 2 "Striker",
gelesen und nun schon einige Jahre auf die Fortsetzung gewartet.
Wollte ich doch wissen, wie es weitergeht mit Zeus und was mit seinem vermissten Bruder Prometheus geschehen ist.
Daher war ich alles andere als begeistert, als die Autorin ankündigte, dass sie einen Band dazwischen schieben würde, der sich ausgiebig mit Zeus Adoptiv-Familie befasst und einen seiner (Adoptiv-)Brüder in den Mittelpunkt stellte, um, so ihre Begründung, einiges an Informationen unter zu bringen, die wir für die Geschichte brauchen.
Deshalb habe ich dem Band dann auch lange ignoriert.
Und es ist nur einem Anfall von Langeweile zu verdanken, dass ich über den Prolog hinweg gelesen habe.
Denn schon auf den ersten Seiten machte die Autorin etwas, was ich abgrundtief hasse, sie veränderte mal eben einen ganzen Erzählstrang und machte eine ganze Reihe von Vorgängen in den vorhergegangenen Bänden unwahrscheinlich. Bis jetzt ist mir nicht klar, was sie damit bezweckt hat.
Und dann musste ich für eine lange Zeit die Zähne zusammenbeißen und durchhalten, denn sehr, sehr lange wurde eine Geschichte erzählt, die ich schon kannte. Aufgelockert durch ein paar Erinnerungen an die Kindheit der Prinzen erleben wir Zeus Abenteuer aus Band 1 und 2 nun mit den Augen Mestors und seines Warlords.
Ich finde es durchaus spannend, wenn eine Geschichte aus zwei Perspektiven erzählt wird, aber hier funktioniert es für mich nicht, einfach weil ich ungeduldig darauf warte zu erfahren, was den nun eigentlich mit Prometheus geschehen ist.
Den er ist mir wichtig, doch von ihm wird eigentlich nur wenig, bis eigentlich nichts erzählt. Stattdessen werden noch mehr Außerirdische eingeführt, noch mehr Erzählstränge begonnen und ich war einige Male versucht, das Buch abzubrechen.
Erst im letzten Viertel ging es dann mit der Gesamt-Geschichte weiter, und ich bin froh, durchgehalten zu haben, auch wenn mir wieder einmal einige Motive nicht so zugesagt haben.
Nun warte ich ungeduldig auf den nächsten Band, damit es endlich richtig weitergeht, auch wenn ich mit Schrecken festgestellt habe, dass es nun schon 5 Bände sind, die angekündigt worden sind.
Constant ist das dritte Buch der Serie
"The Valespian Pact.",
Ich habe sowohl # 1: "Alpha Trine",
als auch # 2 "Striker",
gelesen und nun schon einige Jahre auf die Fortsetzung gewartet.
Wollte ich doch wissen, wie es weitergeht mit Zeus und was mit seinem vermissten Bruder Prometheus geschehen ist.
Daher war ich alles andere als begeistert, als die Autorin ankündigte, dass sie einen Band dazwischen schieben würde, der sich ausgiebig mit Zeus Adoptiv-Familie befasst und einen seiner (Adoptiv-)Brüder in den Mittelpunkt stellte, um, so ihre Begründung, einiges an Informationen unter zu bringen, die wir für die Geschichte brauchen.
Deshalb habe ich dem Band dann auch lange ignoriert.
Und es ist nur einem Anfall von Langeweile zu verdanken, dass ich über den Prolog hinweg gelesen habe.
Denn schon auf den ersten Seiten machte die Autorin etwas, was ich abgrundtief hasse, sie veränderte mal eben einen ganzen Erzählstrang und machte eine ganze Reihe von Vorgängen in den vorhergegangenen Bänden unwahrscheinlich. Bis jetzt ist mir nicht klar, was sie damit bezweckt hat.
Und dann musste ich für eine lange Zeit die Zähne zusammenbeißen und durchhalten, denn sehr, sehr lange wurde eine Geschichte erzählt, die ich schon kannte. Aufgelockert durch ein paar Erinnerungen an die Kindheit der Prinzen erleben wir Zeus Abenteuer aus Band 1 und 2 nun mit den Augen Mestors und seines Warlords.
Ich finde es durchaus spannend, wenn eine Geschichte aus zwei Perspektiven erzählt wird, aber hier funktioniert es für mich nicht, einfach weil ich ungeduldig darauf warte zu erfahren, was den nun eigentlich mit Prometheus geschehen ist.
Den er ist mir wichtig, doch von ihm wird eigentlich nur wenig, bis eigentlich nichts erzählt. Stattdessen werden noch mehr Außerirdische eingeführt, noch mehr Erzählstränge begonnen und ich war einige Male versucht, das Buch abzubrechen.
Erst im letzten Viertel ging es dann mit der Gesamt-Geschichte weiter, und ich bin froh, durchgehalten zu haben, auch wenn mir wieder einmal einige Motive nicht so zugesagt haben.
Nun warte ich ungeduldig auf den nächsten Band, damit es endlich richtig weitergeht, auch wenn ich mit Schrecken festgestellt habe, dass es nun schon 5 Bände sind, die angekündigt worden sind.
March 29, 2020
It Keeps On Getting Better And Better!
Constant is the third volume of the Valespian Pact Series and, believe me, it’s absolutely awe inspiring! Lexi Ander is not your average author, no sir! She is a master weaver of intricate but breathtaking stories full of adventures and romance, a creator of galaxies, universes, races and technologies. Compelling and deeply interesting from the very first page, Constant is like a theatre curtain that opens up to reveal the tale of the proud and brave Mar’Sani people of Atlanticia, told from the eyes and hearts of its royal family and their friends. The unwavering love that unites and strengthen each member of the royal family shines brightly throughout the book - Emperor Valdor and his fierce wife Empress Ashari, their twins Azaes and Mestor, their long lost son Canry, their found son Zeus, whose story begins in Alpha Trine and Striker, and their lovely sister Shaneva. Costant is also the tale of the deep, never wavering love of prince Mestor for Warlord Som’lan. Full of adventures and unexpected turns, this book will keep you on your toes and make you resent the times you have to stop reading it, even if you’re starving for food or late for work. It’s a long book, but it’s never boring.
What has resonated most with me in these trying times we are now living is the Quickening, the long lost ability, and found again when most needed, of the Mar’Sani people to evolve, to develop new abilities and powers. Every being in the universe has the capacity, when in dire straits, to become more, to overcome any obstacle on their path or proudly die while trying with all their might. No loss is wasted, no effort is in vain. This powerful concept is illustrated in the cover of the book, designed by the talented Aisha Akeju, which shows a mighty weapon half buried in Atlanticia’s ocean’s floor.
In the era of Covid-19, Costant by Lexi Ander is a reminder to not cower, but to stand tall and fight together for a better future.
Author Lexi Ander is a warrior at heart and an accomplished writer. She researches and studies so many things before putting pen to paper that it’s no wonder you develop a deep love for all her characters, and start thinking about them as your own friends. She even gives you the most important clue to understand better the story through the illustrations on the covers of her books, and I love her even more for that.
If you are new to Lexi Ander’s work, I wholeheartedly recommend reading the whole Valespian Pact series and all her other books.
Happy reading, everyone!
Constant is the third volume of the Valespian Pact Series and, believe me, it’s absolutely awe inspiring! Lexi Ander is not your average author, no sir! She is a master weaver of intricate but breathtaking stories full of adventures and romance, a creator of galaxies, universes, races and technologies. Compelling and deeply interesting from the very first page, Constant is like a theatre curtain that opens up to reveal the tale of the proud and brave Mar’Sani people of Atlanticia, told from the eyes and hearts of its royal family and their friends. The unwavering love that unites and strengthen each member of the royal family shines brightly throughout the book - Emperor Valdor and his fierce wife Empress Ashari, their twins Azaes and Mestor, their long lost son Canry, their found son Zeus, whose story begins in Alpha Trine and Striker, and their lovely sister Shaneva. Costant is also the tale of the deep, never wavering love of prince Mestor for Warlord Som’lan. Full of adventures and unexpected turns, this book will keep you on your toes and make you resent the times you have to stop reading it, even if you’re starving for food or late for work. It’s a long book, but it’s never boring.
What has resonated most with me in these trying times we are now living is the Quickening, the long lost ability, and found again when most needed, of the Mar’Sani people to evolve, to develop new abilities and powers. Every being in the universe has the capacity, when in dire straits, to become more, to overcome any obstacle on their path or proudly die while trying with all their might. No loss is wasted, no effort is in vain. This powerful concept is illustrated in the cover of the book, designed by the talented Aisha Akeju, which shows a mighty weapon half buried in Atlanticia’s ocean’s floor.
In the era of Covid-19, Costant by Lexi Ander is a reminder to not cower, but to stand tall and fight together for a better future.
Author Lexi Ander is a warrior at heart and an accomplished writer. She researches and studies so many things before putting pen to paper that it’s no wonder you develop a deep love for all her characters, and start thinking about them as your own friends. She even gives you the most important clue to understand better the story through the illustrations on the covers of her books, and I love her even more for that.
If you are new to Lexi Ander’s work, I wholeheartedly recommend reading the whole Valespian Pact series and all her other books.
Happy reading, everyone!
June 8, 2022
This is overlaps the last book and is fascinating to see it from a different perspective. I love this series. I have the other two books in audio as well. (Hope this one will become audio but if not still loved it.) I have a hard time with overly long books. I can do maybe 400 pages before I have problems. I don't stay in the story, I get bored, etc. and I start skipping. I didn't with this book. Lexi Ander is quite the storyteller. Keeping all the different POVs and storylines straight and correct and making them all mess together well is an accomplishment. She created a wonderful world in Alpha Trine and into Striker. (I have to say it has been a while since I read the first two books and I LOVE the new covers.) Now with Constant the epic tale continues. I really hope to get to the next book in the series sooner than I have with the third.
March 31, 2020
Have you ever read about series where your first impression is I have no idea what's going and I love it? Because that's how I feel about this series. It's a strange and beautiful universe with unique and passionate characters and you're just along for the ride. And what a wild ride it is.
This installment is mainly focused on Mestor and Sohm who were previous supporting characters but we actually get so many alternatives POVs that it's hard to say that this story is only theirs. All of the other POVs really flesh out the universe and answer questions from the first two books. I can really tell that the author took the time to make sure the reader understood each individual character's motivations.
That's particularly important in a romance like this that might have some more taboo aspects, such as the age gap and father's best friend relationship. But we get to spend so much time in Mestor and Sohm's heads that their reasons for why they are soul mates makes perfect sense. I enjoyed the romance and I enjoyed the world building even more.
This series is so much more than an amazing scifi romance though. It's the space opera that you didn't know that you needed to read right now. It's not all happiness though, and not all mysteries have been solved so I'll keep reading until everything in the universe is in order.
This installment is mainly focused on Mestor and Sohm who were previous supporting characters but we actually get so many alternatives POVs that it's hard to say that this story is only theirs. All of the other POVs really flesh out the universe and answer questions from the first two books. I can really tell that the author took the time to make sure the reader understood each individual character's motivations.
That's particularly important in a romance like this that might have some more taboo aspects, such as the age gap and father's best friend relationship. But we get to spend so much time in Mestor and Sohm's heads that their reasons for why they are soul mates makes perfect sense. I enjoyed the romance and I enjoyed the world building even more.
This series is so much more than an amazing scifi romance though. It's the space opera that you didn't know that you needed to read right now. It's not all happiness though, and not all mysteries have been solved so I'll keep reading until everything in the universe is in order.
July 12, 2021
This was looooonnnnggg, phewwwie. The back and forth in time to show memories, in the beginning was a bit annoying and I almost quit but I pushed on. So many holes were filled and I’m grateful for that. The series makes a lot of sense now but I gotta say, I’m still lost on where we left Star Eater. We last saw him with Madux on the Gorgon on the way to Valespia. After that, no mention.
I’m so happy for Zeus that his dream came true. Mestor is the jokester of the family it seems, some of his lines were really hilarious. Azaes’ possessiveness, hehe, so unreasonable . Ashari and Valdor were like the best parents ever even in their mistakes. Somh’lan, honorable and loving, it feels like your battles are just starting. Kryp and Matsya, all the secondary characters really were great additions can’t mention all, would take forever.
I thought this was the final book but it seems like there will be so many other books even Nethus’ 😳 Do you suppose Rheax is related to Zeus?
Oh well, we are here to consume the stories weaved. I wonder if there’s anywhere I can go to see illustrations of how others view the species in these books?
Thank you, Lexi Ander
I’m so happy for Zeus that his dream came true. Mestor is the jokester of the family it seems, some of his lines were really hilarious. Azaes’ possessiveness, hehe, so unreasonable . Ashari and Valdor were like the best parents ever even in their mistakes. Somh’lan, honorable and loving, it feels like your battles are just starting. Kryp and Matsya, all the secondary characters really were great additions can’t mention all, would take forever.
I thought this was the final book but it seems like there will be so many other books even Nethus’ 😳 Do you suppose Rheax is related to Zeus?
Oh well, we are here to consume the stories weaved. I wonder if there’s anywhere I can go to see illustrations of how others view the species in these books?
Thank you, Lexi Ander
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