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The Valespian Pact #4
Cherish
Saving a life can change the course of history.
Destin is torn away from his chicks and his bonded when the Terrens invade Aries 7. Experimented on in Terren labs, and made to work their mines, the GyrFalconi struggle to survive. Destin becomes their caretaker, endeavoring to save as many as possible, despite the emotional toll. Amidst the battle for survival, the universe shines on him and he bonds with not one but four people who give him a reason to keep fighting. When Valespia sends its Legions to the GyrFalconi’s aid, Destin and his bonded are eventually freed, only to face new cruelties from their own people.
Freedom comes with its own trials, though, as a divide forms in GyrFalconi society between the winged and the wingless. Destin and his bonded are given a chance at true happiness and they keep what they claim, no matter what.
Tags: The Twenty-Year War where Terrens really mucked things up, so many hatchlings, Love not Lust (yes, using caps there seemed necessary), survivors, bisexual characters, all the cute hatchlings, talking to spirits, low heat, protective chantelle, evil empress, courageous stags, polyamorous, Destin keeps collecting bonded, avian species screech... a lot, non-human ace spectrum characters, found family, underestimated batore, so many stags, Mar'Sani mentor, did I mention the cutest chicks ever?
CHERISH is the fourth book in the award-winning Valespian Pact series. Trigger warnings can be found in the Author’s Note. Please download a sample of this book or use the Look Inside feature. 196,000 words.
Destin is torn away from his chicks and his bonded when the Terrens invade Aries 7. Experimented on in Terren labs, and made to work their mines, the GyrFalconi struggle to survive. Destin becomes their caretaker, endeavoring to save as many as possible, despite the emotional toll. Amidst the battle for survival, the universe shines on him and he bonds with not one but four people who give him a reason to keep fighting. When Valespia sends its Legions to the GyrFalconi’s aid, Destin and his bonded are eventually freed, only to face new cruelties from their own people.
Freedom comes with its own trials, though, as a divide forms in GyrFalconi society between the winged and the wingless. Destin and his bonded are given a chance at true happiness and they keep what they claim, no matter what.
Tags: The Twenty-Year War where Terrens really mucked things up, so many hatchlings, Love not Lust (yes, using caps there seemed necessary), survivors, bisexual characters, all the cute hatchlings, talking to spirits, low heat, protective chantelle, evil empress, courageous stags, polyamorous, Destin keeps collecting bonded, avian species screech... a lot, non-human ace spectrum characters, found family, underestimated batore, so many stags, Mar'Sani mentor, did I mention the cutest chicks ever?
CHERISH is the fourth book in the award-winning Valespian Pact series. Trigger warnings can be found in the Author’s Note. Please download a sample of this book or use the Look Inside feature. 196,000 words.
684 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2021
15 people are currently reading
415 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 - 28 of 28 reviews
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January 25, 2015
Nuff said.
October 24, 2015
Five stars in anticipation of the third book of this series that I already love and to counter the people that rated one star and three stars on a book that I doubt they've even read since there isn't even a release date, yet.
December 5, 2021
1.75 stars
This was a slog to read. I wanted to like it as I really enjoyed the first 3 stories and their complexities and world building.
This story is a prequel to the first 3 in the series.
There were numerous unnecessary scenes that did nothing to drive the story. The part with the picnic? Why? It should have been cut out of the book as it was pointless and had nothing to do with anything. Hence, I didn't bother indicating it as a spoiler.
The constant tearing up and crying was ridiculous; everyone seemed to be an emotional wreck all the time. Everyone. All. The. Time.
A lot of repetition. One example: A ton of people to try to keep track of and new ones thrown in throughout the story; I quit trying. I was confused as to the difference between the "types" of the people, and who had what roles before I decided I didn't care.
Toward the end is the first real bit that links it to the first 3 and barely at that.
It's a long story that doesn't seem to be necessary to the series and could've used a lot of editing. I see there is a #5 scheduled; it will depend on who the characters are if I continue with the series.
This was a slog to read. I wanted to like it as I really enjoyed the first 3 stories and their complexities and world building.
This story is a prequel to the first 3 in the series.
There were numerous unnecessary scenes that did nothing to drive the story. The part with the picnic? Why? It should have been cut out of the book as it was pointless and had nothing to do with anything. Hence, I didn't bother indicating it as a spoiler.
The constant tearing up and crying was ridiculous; everyone seemed to be an emotional wreck all the time. Everyone. All. The. Time.
A lot of repetition. One example: A ton of people to try to keep track of and new ones thrown in throughout the story; I quit trying. I was confused as to the difference between the "types" of the people, and who had what roles before I decided I didn't care.
Toward the end is the first real bit that links it to the first 3 and barely at that.
It's a long story that doesn't seem to be necessary to the series and could've used a lot of editing. I see there is a #5 scheduled; it will depend on who the characters are if I continue with the series.
December 13, 2021
I'm sorry to say... this was awful 😖. I couldn't wait for this book to be published and release. A serious let down. I was truly disappointed and couldn't wait for this book to end. Depressing with some shining light here and there. Boring omgoodness this book shouldn't be part of the collection. Overly detailed half of the chapters could have been removed and you wouldn't have missed anything. If I could return this book back to Amazon I would. Way to many family members and who went where and how they all co-mingled. I'm not looking forward to a new addition to this collection. Honestly the author should have stopped at the 3rd one. If I could give half a star I would!
December 1, 2021
Love This Series!
This series has such a rich and detailed universe. This book to give us the backstory of the GyrFalconi and their troubled past. But watching Destin find his mates, its really a story of hope and found family. I really enjoyed the characters the author created and watching them interact and grow kept my interest. This is a longer read for me, but I was thoroughly engaged and didn't want to put it down! It's a treat to come back to this universe and it makes me intrigued for what's next (can't wait for more Axis!)
This series has such a rich and detailed universe. This book to give us the backstory of the GyrFalconi and their troubled past. But watching Destin find his mates, its really a story of hope and found family. I really enjoyed the characters the author created and watching them interact and grow kept my interest. This is a longer read for me, but I was thoroughly engaged and didn't want to put it down! It's a treat to come back to this universe and it makes me intrigued for what's next (can't wait for more Axis!)
December 11, 2021
I received an ARC for an honest review. So here it goes...
I'm a huge, huge fan of Lexi's and specifically her Valespian Pact series, I have re-read the first three books I don't know how many times now.
Cherish is sort of a prequel of the other books, and there's very little overlap in terms of characters between them, I would say it's more of an explanatory book, like a companion to the series. It gives us a bit more background on previous events mentioned in earlier books but that weren't explained very much and I love that it shows us more of Axis' history, as we didn't have much info on him except for how he lost his wings in the Aries 7 tragedy, which is now very thoroughly explained here.
I gotta say Lexi handled some pretty rough topics very elegantly and compassionately, but if you have triggers for captivity, torture, shunning, and that sort of thing, this may not be your book.
In general, it was a bit of a slow read for me, I had trouble connecting with it at first, however, by the second half of the book something clicked and I started to enjoy it more, we start to see more action, and the relation and repercussions this will have in the future (which would be the present in the other books).
I like very much how resilient all the characters are, it was very heartening and beautiful to read how they rose above all they had to go through (which was A LOT) and came up stronger and more united because of it, Destin is a great example of the strength of a survivor. I also love how they show the other side of the humans, how not all of them are the horrible people they are believed to be by all the other species, and we see Otto!!! This was a highlight for me because I just love him, but his presence there left with absolutely more questions, I won't say much because I don't wanna ruin it, but wow... mindblown!
There's a lot to read here, and to talk about it all would be an essay all of its own, so I won't go into too much detail, but it was a good book, beautifully written (which is Lexi's style always), with a great end that I think (am pretty sure) will tie later on with the other books left to come in the series.
I'm a huge, huge fan of Lexi's and specifically her Valespian Pact series, I have re-read the first three books I don't know how many times now.
Cherish is sort of a prequel of the other books, and there's very little overlap in terms of characters between them, I would say it's more of an explanatory book, like a companion to the series. It gives us a bit more background on previous events mentioned in earlier books but that weren't explained very much and I love that it shows us more of Axis' history, as we didn't have much info on him except for how he lost his wings in the Aries 7 tragedy, which is now very thoroughly explained here.
I gotta say Lexi handled some pretty rough topics very elegantly and compassionately, but if you have triggers for captivity, torture, shunning, and that sort of thing, this may not be your book.
In general, it was a bit of a slow read for me, I had trouble connecting with it at first, however, by the second half of the book something clicked and I started to enjoy it more, we start to see more action, and the relation and repercussions this will have in the future (which would be the present in the other books).
I like very much how resilient all the characters are, it was very heartening and beautiful to read how they rose above all they had to go through (which was A LOT) and came up stronger and more united because of it, Destin is a great example of the strength of a survivor. I also love how they show the other side of the humans, how not all of them are the horrible people they are believed to be by all the other species, and we see Otto!!! This was a highlight for me because I just love him, but his presence there left with absolutely more questions, I won't say much because I don't wanna ruin it, but wow... mindblown!
There's a lot to read here, and to talk about it all would be an essay all of its own, so I won't go into too much detail, but it was a good book, beautifully written (which is Lexi's style always), with a great end that I think (am pretty sure) will tie later on with the other books left to come in the series.
December 13, 2021
Where to start? Valespian pact world is amazing…really, really amazing…so many details and connections…
This book is part of series, but it can be read as standalone; it is happening in the past and giving us a bit of highlights of complexity of Valespian universe. Lexi is master in world building and creating connections between characters. All warnings about this book are given to readers…you will be sad; you will smile and you will enjoy it!
Usually, I like books to have a bit of hotness, and other Lexi’s book have them; but like one of the warning said: there are none here; pure cuteness in some cases with a bit of sassiness :-)
The best thing about this book is how Lexi gave so well packed critique of humans and our behavior and what we consider “normal” behavior. In addition, she gave us hope, that not all of us are rotten, there is always hope that we will redeem our self’s. This series is so refreshing that is showing humans as negative characters and not that we are saviors of universe or that we are to be concurred. Humans are invaders and doing all wrong things that we can see that is done today on our planet.
Like mentioned this can be enjoyed as standalone, but read the series, you will not regret it. Before even writing this review, I did full reread of series, to connect some dots, to refresh my memory, and to make sure that I did not miss something in this book.
Wish you happy reading and good luck in organizing your time to do other things :-)
This book is part of series, but it can be read as standalone; it is happening in the past and giving us a bit of highlights of complexity of Valespian universe. Lexi is master in world building and creating connections between characters. All warnings about this book are given to readers…you will be sad; you will smile and you will enjoy it!
Usually, I like books to have a bit of hotness, and other Lexi’s book have them; but like one of the warning said: there are none here; pure cuteness in some cases with a bit of sassiness :-)
The best thing about this book is how Lexi gave so well packed critique of humans and our behavior and what we consider “normal” behavior. In addition, she gave us hope, that not all of us are rotten, there is always hope that we will redeem our self’s. This series is so refreshing that is showing humans as negative characters and not that we are saviors of universe or that we are to be concurred. Humans are invaders and doing all wrong things that we can see that is done today on our planet.
Like mentioned this can be enjoyed as standalone, but read the series, you will not regret it. Before even writing this review, I did full reread of series, to connect some dots, to refresh my memory, and to make sure that I did not miss something in this book.
Wish you happy reading and good luck in organizing your time to do other things :-)
December 7, 2021
I'm a huge fan of Lexi Ander. I've loved her Valespian Pact series since Alpha Trine. This is the 4th book (or 3rd if you think of the first two books as Part 1 & Part 2) in the series. Since it takes place in the past, it could be read alone, though the knowledge you have of what will happen does inform the story more.
This is not an easy story to read. It's heartbreaking at the launch and it stays heartbreaking for a while. Genocide, experimentation, and slavery are not easy subjects to tackle. There are, of course, spots of light, hope, and love in captivity, but it's captivity. It's not nice and it's not pretty. And freedom isn't always the joy you want it to be. It's a hard story that takes place in a very narrow-minded society where anything other/different is bad and empathy is lacking.
But the main characters grab your heart and keep you holding on. Destin, Worth, Myo, Bogie, Ellatha, (and the Stags) are wonderful characters. They are interesting and compelling. You want to know more about who they are and what they will do.
But this is not an MM book by any traditional means. Sure, the main characters are mostly male (pronoun-wise), but this is an alien species that doesn't conform to known gender roles. So, it's more of a story of unconventional love, bonding, shared tragedy, growth, and opening your eyes and hearts to other people you don't expect.
As for how this story fits in the series, I'm assuming we'll see some of the hatchlings again in the future. We already know Axis and it was fun to meet his family and get a little of his origin story. This book was not what I expected. It took me a long time to finally read it because I knew it would be tough, and it was, but once I started, I couldn't put it down.
If you're looking for solid world-building focused on characters, then this is the book for you. I definitely closed the book wanting more and wishing I could see how everything will unfold for Destin and the gang. I think it will be pretty spectacular, at least I hope so.
This is not an easy story to read. It's heartbreaking at the launch and it stays heartbreaking for a while. Genocide, experimentation, and slavery are not easy subjects to tackle. There are, of course, spots of light, hope, and love in captivity, but it's captivity. It's not nice and it's not pretty. And freedom isn't always the joy you want it to be. It's a hard story that takes place in a very narrow-minded society where anything other/different is bad and empathy is lacking.
But the main characters grab your heart and keep you holding on. Destin, Worth, Myo, Bogie, Ellatha, (and the Stags) are wonderful characters. They are interesting and compelling. You want to know more about who they are and what they will do.
But this is not an MM book by any traditional means. Sure, the main characters are mostly male (pronoun-wise), but this is an alien species that doesn't conform to known gender roles. So, it's more of a story of unconventional love, bonding, shared tragedy, growth, and opening your eyes and hearts to other people you don't expect.
As for how this story fits in the series, I'm assuming we'll see some of the hatchlings again in the future. We already know Axis and it was fun to meet his family and get a little of his origin story. This book was not what I expected. It took me a long time to finally read it because I knew it would be tough, and it was, but once I started, I couldn't put it down.
If you're looking for solid world-building focused on characters, then this is the book for you. I definitely closed the book wanting more and wishing I could see how everything will unfold for Destin and the gang. I think it will be pretty spectacular, at least I hope so.
December 8, 2021
I was fortunate to receive an ARC copy of Cherish. I am so in love with the whole Valespian Pact series and have read the books many times since I first discovered them. I bought the available audibles and have listened to them as well. Even though I received this as an ARC to review, I bought it as soon as it was released. I have also signed up to the FB group and keep up with Lexi Ander’s updates and posts regarding all of her works. To have the opportunity to sign up and actually be one of the chosen for the ARC was a dream come true.
This book was everything and more than I could have ever hoped for. It definitely ran through the gamut of the emotional rollercoaster ride and it was so worth it. There are some triggers that the author has listed and I do recommend for readers to review them. I loved everything about it from the first word to the last. The characters were so real and the pain and suffering that they went through were important for the reader to experience along with them. The love and the strength of each GyrFalconi in Destin’s family is bittersweet and beautiful. Also, the baby chicks and found hatchlings! The connections that they make as the story unfolds have such a ripple effect to the rest of the series that I am in awe of Lexi Ander for creating these stories and characters. All of the words painted such a vivid picture that I was so immersed in this book and I never wanted to leave. But the benefits are that I get to dive back in whenever I want. I know that I will read Cherish at least once a year if not more as the mood strikes.
I was hoping to do another reread of the whole series, but life has gotten in the way (adulting-bleghh!) so I wanted to post this review now. I highly recommend this book and the rest in the series as well as the other books that Lexi Ander has written.
I am so excited to read this again and again along with the other three, because I now have more info that can tie into parts of the other books.
I received a copy of this book to review.
This book was everything and more than I could have ever hoped for. It definitely ran through the gamut of the emotional rollercoaster ride and it was so worth it. There are some triggers that the author has listed and I do recommend for readers to review them. I loved everything about it from the first word to the last. The characters were so real and the pain and suffering that they went through were important for the reader to experience along with them. The love and the strength of each GyrFalconi in Destin’s family is bittersweet and beautiful. Also, the baby chicks and found hatchlings! The connections that they make as the story unfolds have such a ripple effect to the rest of the series that I am in awe of Lexi Ander for creating these stories and characters. All of the words painted such a vivid picture that I was so immersed in this book and I never wanted to leave. But the benefits are that I get to dive back in whenever I want. I know that I will read Cherish at least once a year if not more as the mood strikes.
I was hoping to do another reread of the whole series, but life has gotten in the way (adulting-bleghh!) so I wanted to post this review now. I highly recommend this book and the rest in the series as well as the other books that Lexi Ander has written.
I am so excited to read this again and again along with the other three, because I now have more info that can tie into parts of the other books.
I received a copy of this book to review.
November 9, 2021
The Valespian Pact series is one of my favorite scifi romance series. Lexi Ander has an incredible ability to write strong, engaging characters inside of detailed and fully fleshed-out worlds. The Valespian Pact series has so many planets, cultures, species, and races that sometimes it can be hard to keep everything straight, and this newest installment is no exception. Luckily, there are character lists and glossaries at the beginning/end for reference. But don't let all of that world-building info discourage you from reading this! The details make for a much more engaging and absorbing reading experience.
There are a LOT of characters in this book, including what I felt were the main characters. You'll definitely want to read the previous books in this series before jumping into this one. While it serves as a sort of prequel (taking place 103 years before Constant), there are many plot threads and some characters that are interwoven between the books.
The culture and characteristics of the GyrFalconi were fascinating and I loved reading about their society, relationships between one another, and their sexualities. There really isn't any sex shown in this book, but there is a TON of intimacy and love between the families. I would say that this book in particular leaned more heavily on the plot than the romance, but at about the 40% mark the romance aspect comes back into play more prominently. I appreciated the diverse sexual nature of the families with a lot of the characters being Ace! I really loved all of Destin's bonded and his chicks were so cute (when a couple of them started hiss-clicking like little Mar'Sani I just about died!)!! Although I could've used a bit more in regards to Destin bonding with Worth, Ellatha, Bogie, and Myo while in captivity. I did tag this as mpreg since, although the male Batore don't actually help to "create" the chicks, they do carry and deliver the eggs. The process is actually a really cool and unique concept that involves the cooperation and participation of multiple GyrFalconi.
I really enjoyed learning more about how the Twenty-Year War we've heard about in previous books started/ended. There was so much suffering, but there was hope and beauty too. Seeing the survivors come together to rebuild their lives was a wonderful aspect of this story. Just be sure to read the Author's Note at the beginning for some content warnings as things got pretty heavy throughout the book, as can be expected when reading about war times, kidnapping, and enslavement.
I'm really excited to see how these characters may play a part in the series as it gets back into dealing with the V'Saar and the missing Bespoken. I'm especially interested in finding out if we'll see some important reincarnations of people thanks to the GyrFalconi's Great Egg guardian (or maybe we already have!).
This is definitely a book you wanna read if you're a fan of the Valespian Pact series. While it is long and may seem daunting to read, it's completely worth it! Destin and his family have played such a huge part in this series and I'm looking forward to hopefully seeing them again!
4 Stars
There are a LOT of characters in this book, including what I felt were the main characters. You'll definitely want to read the previous books in this series before jumping into this one. While it serves as a sort of prequel (taking place 103 years before Constant), there are many plot threads and some characters that are interwoven between the books.
The culture and characteristics of the GyrFalconi were fascinating and I loved reading about their society, relationships between one another, and their sexualities. There really isn't any sex shown in this book, but there is a TON of intimacy and love between the families. I would say that this book in particular leaned more heavily on the plot than the romance, but at about the 40% mark the romance aspect comes back into play more prominently. I appreciated the diverse sexual nature of the families with a lot of the characters being Ace! I really loved all of Destin's bonded and his chicks were so cute (when a couple of them started hiss-clicking like little Mar'Sani I just about died!)!! Although I could've used a bit more in regards to Destin bonding with Worth, Ellatha, Bogie, and Myo while in captivity. I did tag this as mpreg since, although the male Batore don't actually help to "create" the chicks, they do carry and deliver the eggs. The process is actually a really cool and unique concept that involves the cooperation and participation of multiple GyrFalconi.
I really enjoyed learning more about how the Twenty-Year War we've heard about in previous books started/ended. There was so much suffering, but there was hope and beauty too. Seeing the survivors come together to rebuild their lives was a wonderful aspect of this story. Just be sure to read the Author's Note at the beginning for some content warnings as things got pretty heavy throughout the book, as can be expected when reading about war times, kidnapping, and enslavement.
I'm really excited to see how these characters may play a part in the series as it gets back into dealing with the V'Saar and the missing Bespoken. I'm especially interested in finding out if we'll see some important reincarnations of people thanks to the GyrFalconi's Great Egg guardian (or maybe we already have!).
This is definitely a book you wanna read if you're a fan of the Valespian Pact series. While it is long and may seem daunting to read, it's completely worth it! Destin and his family have played such a huge part in this series and I'm looking forward to hopefully seeing them again!
4 Stars
January 5, 2022
This was such an emotional and tumultuous roller-coaster of emotions as a reader. The author did such an amazing job of delving into the depths of the soul and exploring both the best and worst life has to offer. The world-building and vast amount of cultural development the author deployed into this narrative was astounding, really fleshing out the history of series-established characters like Destin and finally witnessing events hinted at in the series. Now I definitely think readers will be better off having read previous entries into the series so that these events and characters are better understood in the context of this fictional universe. However, the author did an amazing job conveying enough emotion and storytelling for these characters to make the reader feel invested in their journeys.
While this novel definitely starts out as a slow-burn kind of storytelling, the second half of the novel ramps up the twists and turns that allow readers to suddenly sit up in their seats and do a double-take, as the connection with these characters becomes more gripping as the plot thickens. As seen at the beginning of this review, there are some hard subject lines in this novel, but the author does a great job of handling them with care and showing the importance of these issues without being too graphic in detail, striking an important balance between a story’s theme and narrative that is so important and found often in the sci-fi romance genre.
The Verdict
A memorable, heartfelt, and engaging sci-fi romance, author Lexi Ander’s “Cherish” is a must-read novel. The mythos and LGBTQ-driven character development, along with truly important themes and explorations of finding hope and family in the darkest of times is something truly special, and readers will not be able to put this book down once they really sit down and get into it.
While this novel definitely starts out as a slow-burn kind of storytelling, the second half of the novel ramps up the twists and turns that allow readers to suddenly sit up in their seats and do a double-take, as the connection with these characters becomes more gripping as the plot thickens. As seen at the beginning of this review, there are some hard subject lines in this novel, but the author does a great job of handling them with care and showing the importance of these issues without being too graphic in detail, striking an important balance between a story’s theme and narrative that is so important and found often in the sci-fi romance genre.
The Verdict
A memorable, heartfelt, and engaging sci-fi romance, author Lexi Ander’s “Cherish” is a must-read novel. The mythos and LGBTQ-driven character development, along with truly important themes and explorations of finding hope and family in the darkest of times is something truly special, and readers will not be able to put this book down once they really sit down and get into it.
January 5, 2022
This was a sprawling epic tale that I greatly enjoyed. This was a book about trauma, the nature of society, and found family. If you are looking for smut and romance, this is not the book for you. Some of the many bonded and hatchlings in this book had interchangeable personalities, but I was able to look past that because those relationships were not really the focus of the book. The scope of the book was very ambitious in terms of the number of years shown, the number of characters and narrators, and the massive amount of world building that went into just this one planet and culture (not to mention the other species that already exist in this universe and made cameos in this book).
Although I enjoyed the story told and the emotions it brought out, it could have greatly benefitted from further editing. Aside from grammar and punctuation issues, this book was 600 pages, and many pages could have been cut. Later books in a series often begin with a brief recap of what happened in previous books. This book contained MANY recaps of what happened in previous chapters, and it seemed repetitive and unnecessary to me. Idk, if you don't binge read this like I did, then maybe you will appreciate the recaps. I just felt that it was reminding me of big events I was unlikely to forget in the first place.
The few complaints I mentioned kept this from being a 5⭐ read for me, but I still enjoyed it enough to go ahead and buy Book 3 in this series, which I obviously had not planned to read since this review is for Book 4 lol.
Although I enjoyed the story told and the emotions it brought out, it could have greatly benefitted from further editing. Aside from grammar and punctuation issues, this book was 600 pages, and many pages could have been cut. Later books in a series often begin with a brief recap of what happened in previous books. This book contained MANY recaps of what happened in previous chapters, and it seemed repetitive and unnecessary to me. Idk, if you don't binge read this like I did, then maybe you will appreciate the recaps. I just felt that it was reminding me of big events I was unlikely to forget in the first place.
The few complaints I mentioned kept this from being a 5⭐ read for me, but I still enjoyed it enough to go ahead and buy Book 3 in this series, which I obviously had not planned to read since this review is for Book 4 lol.
December 14, 2021
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a review. First off let me say that I have read all of the previous books in the Valespian Pact Series. I knew that this book was about the GryFalconi but I did not know what to expect when I first received this book. Cherish is a much longer book than any of the others in the series. It covers the invasion by the Terrans and the 20-year war that the GryFalconi lived through. During these years we meet GryFalconi who exhibits bravery and kindness during these harsh living conditions. And once the war is over the lives of the survivors are not easy. The GryFalconi cling to their bonded in order to survive and in time thrive. I don't want to spoil Cherish for anyone wanting to read it so I am not going in-depth with information but know that the world-building is extensive and the social structure is interesting. Aside from new characters, previous characters pop up and we learn a bit more about them a bit early on in the timeline: Axis, Davina, the MarSani yet to be Emperor Valdor, and Otho. Cherish is a necessary read for Valespian Pact Series. Though at times sad to read during the years of the war it also has hope and courage and the events impact the future of the GryFalconi and other races. A must read for fans of the previous Valespian Pact books.
January 2, 2022
What can I say about this book that won't sound fan-girly or as if I'm not being honest because I am mentioned on the Acknowledgments page?
Well I can tell you that even though it's book #4 it actually takes place chronologically as the prequel to the series. It was fascinating to read historical things mentioned in the previous books from the POV of of those living it.
I have to say I loved the descriptions of the characters and the amount of world building in the book. I actually had trouble in real life that slowed down my reading and thought it would take me forever to finish as it's a long story. However I ended up reading about 64% of it in one night because I couldn't put it down and lights out at 4 in the morning at my age is really not a good idea. It was worth it though.
I think if you haven't read the first three you could still read this one and enjoy it as is. It might even entice you to read the others afterwards, because Lexi has a way of making her universe a place you'll want to visit again and again.
Oh, and one more thing - have some hankies or tissues available as there are a few places where Lexi breaks your heart before putting it back together with the love her characters feel for each other.
Well I can tell you that even though it's book #4 it actually takes place chronologically as the prequel to the series. It was fascinating to read historical things mentioned in the previous books from the POV of of those living it.
I have to say I loved the descriptions of the characters and the amount of world building in the book. I actually had trouble in real life that slowed down my reading and thought it would take me forever to finish as it's a long story. However I ended up reading about 64% of it in one night because I couldn't put it down and lights out at 4 in the morning at my age is really not a good idea. It was worth it though.
I think if you haven't read the first three you could still read this one and enjoy it as is. It might even entice you to read the others afterwards, because Lexi has a way of making her universe a place you'll want to visit again and again.
Oh, and one more thing - have some hankies or tissues available as there are a few places where Lexi breaks your heart before putting it back together with the love her characters feel for each other.
January 5, 2022
This is a very interesting book.
There is so many characters and the story does change views. It also jumps around in time but the author handles both by labeling chapter headings clearly.
There is a lot of the big, science fiction type names for characters and towns and cities snd species. But there is enough explanation and backstory.
The descriptions are amazing painting pictures with words.
Sadly these same points I like slowed the story down with all the deep descriptions and backstory some repetitive. I felt the story could have been much better shorter.
Having said that, I fell in love with Destiny right away and my heart went out to him.
There are emotional triggers in this book like suggested rape ( off page), torture, captivity, and experimentation.
If you like sci/fi, space opera, different species, and cute chicks ( kids) this is for you.
There is so many characters and the story does change views. It also jumps around in time but the author handles both by labeling chapter headings clearly.
There is a lot of the big, science fiction type names for characters and towns and cities snd species. But there is enough explanation and backstory.
The descriptions are amazing painting pictures with words.
Sadly these same points I like slowed the story down with all the deep descriptions and backstory some repetitive. I felt the story could have been much better shorter.
Having said that, I fell in love with Destiny right away and my heart went out to him.
There are emotional triggers in this book like suggested rape ( off page), torture, captivity, and experimentation.
If you like sci/fi, space opera, different species, and cute chicks ( kids) this is for you.
November 20, 2022
This was a very interesting read. The author advises to remember this is an alien culture so sexuality and romantic are different. It was very interesting how the author manages to make up these aliens and various cultures along with the various relationships and sexualities. It is wonderfully creative. The only thing I had that was at all negative, and I didn't think it was all that bad, is there is a lot of repetition. There may have been some opportunity to shorten the length some. Still I found it wasn't something that I minded. I'm interested in finding out how some of this will come into play further into the series.
December 4, 2021
I really love the Valespian series and was so excited to be selected to read this. The things the Gyr-Falconi went through by the Terran’s was horrifying but the love that Destin had with his mates was amazing and so were the chicks. The world building and descriptions make you think you were there. Even though you can read this a a stand-alone, you should read the first three books to read about the different cultures and worlds. I highly recommend.
I received a copy of this book for my review.
I received a copy of this book for my review.
March 20, 2022
First of all, this book is devoid of joy. Second, there are so many characters that you are not really allowed to care about anyone. There are so many mates, but none of the attractions seemed to have any rhyme or reason. Each one came about just because they were people in the same place at the same time. Every interaction felt meaningless. I couldn’t root for anybody. I didn’t even really like anyone either. DNF 74%.
September 8, 2025
Lovely
This was such a sweet and sad book to read. The beginning was hard but needed to tell Destin and his bonded's stories. I am a little sad it has been such a long time since this released and that there isn't a new one yet because I have definitely fallen in love with this galaxy and it's characters. I hope we get to see them all again in the near future.
This was such a sweet and sad book to read. The beginning was hard but needed to tell Destin and his bonded's stories. I am a little sad it has been such a long time since this released and that there isn't a new one yet because I have definitely fallen in love with this galaxy and it's characters. I hope we get to see them all again in the near future.
November 15, 2021
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Wow, it was a long one but it was so interesting and it was great to see in a way the beginnings of the Valespian pact, getting more information about the Terrans and Vassar it was great to see more plot twists coming together. It was a little hard to keep track of all the relationships between all the main characters at times but it was still great to see them come together after all the hardship they have suffered and the changes their entire society went through. It was a true testament to survival and the happiness that awaits if you are prepared to fight for it. It was very interesting to see Davina, if there is another book relating to the G'rfalconi I would love to see more of her and the role she plays in their society. I didn't expect her to be The babies are my favourite and so totally adorable. Getting to see Axis's beginnings and how he ended up at the galactic patrol was so good to see. I can't wait till the next instalment hopefully just as good as this one :)
December 30, 2021
This story had all types of hurt and not much of comfort but I couldn't stop reading. I love Lexi Ander's writing and this book didn't disappoint. A wonderful SciFi saga. I love the entire Valespian Pact series.
December 31, 2021
If I could clone Lexi's brain I would so I could have two people writing such incredible rich and unique worlds. The worldbuilding, characters, plot and writing was sublime....as always.
I highly recommend this series
I highly recommend this series
January 14, 2022
Amazing, I'm so in love with this serie. Looking forward for the next one❤
May 21, 2022
I LOVED this! I had so much sorrow for the GyrFalconi's plight. Just an amazing read!!
December 1, 2021
Valespian Pact Series is one of my absolute favourites so I jumped at the chance to review Cherish.
The author pulled out all the stops with this one. My heart felt so heavy reading the first half - those that were captured went through unimaginable things. I cried for everything they went through and what was stolen from them.
Destin and his bonded had a beautiful connection and the stags that joined later, added to their unique bond.
The chicks were adorable and I loved how the whole roost came together to care for them.
This was an amazing prequel. It was a long book but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
The author pulled out all the stops with this one. My heart felt so heavy reading the first half - those that were captured went through unimaginable things. I cried for everything they went through and what was stolen from them.
Destin and his bonded had a beautiful connection and the stags that joined later, added to their unique bond.
The chicks were adorable and I loved how the whole roost came together to care for them.
This was an amazing prequel. It was a long book but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
December 17, 2021
I was given this book to do a review. I really liked this book but it is definitely a fact filled book. There is a whole lot of information.
You get to know some specific characters. But there’s a lot that you don’t know that kind of makes it a little difficult to follow. This book could almost be read as a standalone. As of right now there doesn’t seem to be any connection to the other books in the series.There is one character that shows up in early books.
The book is written really well this is definitely one of my go to authors.
You get to know some specific characters. But there’s a lot that you don’t know that kind of makes it a little difficult to follow. This book could almost be read as a standalone. As of right now there doesn’t seem to be any connection to the other books in the series.There is one character that shows up in early books.
The book is written really well this is definitely one of my go to authors.
April 5, 2022
I was given a copy of this book for a honest review.
I felt a bit lost in the beginning of this book. I wasn't sure where this timeline fit into this series.
With that being said, this book was wonderful. You get a few mentions of characters from the previous books folded into this story nicely.
The connections between the main characters is heartfelt. The overall arc of the heartache, love and struggle of this story is what draws you into their lives.
I hope to see more of these characters in the future. I think they have more of the story to unfold. Why are these characters so important to Valespian? I hope to know more.
I felt a bit lost in the beginning of this book. I wasn't sure where this timeline fit into this series.
With that being said, this book was wonderful. You get a few mentions of characters from the previous books folded into this story nicely.
The connections between the main characters is heartfelt. The overall arc of the heartache, love and struggle of this story is what draws you into their lives.
I hope to see more of these characters in the future. I think they have more of the story to unfold. Why are these characters so important to Valespian? I hope to know more.
October 28, 2023
Chicks are so cute!!!
This book was great, I'm glad it was written so we can have a back story for axis when his book comes ( hopefully soon )....
This book was great, I'm glad it was written so we can have a back story for axis when his book comes ( hopefully soon )....
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