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Le sombre et redoutable rebelle vandar exile sur notre monde refuse de m’ aider sans contrpartie.
Corvak n’a rien à voir avec les males de ma planète. Violent et menaçant, il ne veut rien avoir à faire avec aune humaine comme moi. Mais il est le seul à savoir se batter, et je refuse d’être sans défense lorsque l’Empire nous attaquera… et ce n’ qu’ une question de temps avant qu’il le fasse.
J’ai entendu les rumeur sur les Vandars. Leurs hordes invisibles voyagent à bord de terrifiants oiseaux de guerre, leurs guerriers terrorisant les Zagraths et tout vaisseau se mettant en travers de leur chemin. Ça m’ est égal. Je suis prête à tout pour devenir une guerrière, même si pour ce faire, je dois convaincre Corvak que je mérite son attention. Mme si je dois discrètement me render dans ses quartiers pour le supplier.
Mais suis-je prête à accepter le marché qu’il finit par me proposer ? Il veut quitter la planète que je souhaite désespérément sauver. S’il m’apprend à me batter, je devrai l’aider à s’ échapper. Bien que le Vandar dominant me tape sur les nerfs, réussirai-je à le regarder partir ?
"Châtiée" est une romance de science-fiction garantie sans infidélité et avec une fin heureuse. Ce roman contient des scènes torrides se déroulant sur un vaisseau de guerre rebelle, des batailles spatiales de hordes extraterrestres, et des relations passionnées entre des ennemis devenus amants avec un écart d'âge.
Si vous appréciez les guerriers extraterrestres dominants et dangereux, les enlèvements extraterrestres, et les scènes brûlantes avec un dénouement heureux, vous adorerez "Châtiée", le cinqième livre de la série de romance SF des Seigneurs de guerre rebelles de Vandar de Tana Stone. Chaque livre peut être lu séparément.
Corvak n’a rien à voir avec les males de ma planète. Violent et menaçant, il ne veut rien avoir à faire avec aune humaine comme moi. Mais il est le seul à savoir se batter, et je refuse d’être sans défense lorsque l’Empire nous attaquera… et ce n’ qu’ une question de temps avant qu’il le fasse.
J’ai entendu les rumeur sur les Vandars. Leurs hordes invisibles voyagent à bord de terrifiants oiseaux de guerre, leurs guerriers terrorisant les Zagraths et tout vaisseau se mettant en travers de leur chemin. Ça m’ est égal. Je suis prête à tout pour devenir une guerrière, même si pour ce faire, je dois convaincre Corvak que je mérite son attention. Mme si je dois discrètement me render dans ses quartiers pour le supplier.
Mais suis-je prête à accepter le marché qu’il finit par me proposer ? Il veut quitter la planète que je souhaite désespérément sauver. S’il m’apprend à me batter, je devrai l’aider à s’ échapper. Bien que le Vandar dominant me tape sur les nerfs, réussirai-je à le regarder partir ?
"Châtiée" est une romance de science-fiction garantie sans infidélité et avec une fin heureuse. Ce roman contient des scènes torrides se déroulant sur un vaisseau de guerre rebelle, des batailles spatiales de hordes extraterrestres, et des relations passionnées entre des ennemis devenus amants avec un écart d'âge.
Si vous appréciez les guerriers extraterrestres dominants et dangereux, les enlèvements extraterrestres, et les scènes brûlantes avec un dénouement heureux, vous adorerez "Châtiée", le cinqième livre de la série de romance SF des Seigneurs de guerre rebelles de Vandar de Tana Stone. Chaque livre peut être lu séparément.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 12, 2021
About the author
Tana Stone
96 books856 followersI love sexy aliens and independent heroines. I grew up on Star Trek: Next Generation and Star Wars (and I adore them equally). My favorite superhero is Thor (with Aquaman a close second because, well, Jason Momoa), my favorite dessert is key lime pie (okay, fine, all pie), and I still lament the loss of Firefly.
I live in North Carolina in the US and have one husband, two teenagers, and two neurotic cats. I sometimes wish I could teleport to a holographic space station like the one in my tribute brides series (or maybe vacation at the oasis with the sand planet barbarians). :-) When I'm not writing, I love to paddleboard, dive, travel, and read obsessively!
Want to hang out with me in my private Facebook group? Join on all the fun at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tanas...
I live in North Carolina in the US and have one husband, two teenagers, and two neurotic cats. I sometimes wish I could teleport to a holographic space station like the one in my tribute brides series (or maybe vacation at the oasis with the sand planet barbarians). :-) When I'm not writing, I love to paddleboard, dive, travel, and read obsessively!
Want to hang out with me in my private Facebook group? Join on all the fun at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tanas...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
May 14, 2021
5 stars ⭐️
Well damn, after getting himself banished from his horde, Corvak is about to find out why all the Raas of the Vandar are falling for their human females. Another action packed instalment of the Vandar Warlords series, in which the Dothvek Warriors and their females make an appearance.
Well damn, after getting himself banished from his horde, Corvak is about to find out why all the Raas of the Vandar are falling for their human females. Another action packed instalment of the Vandar Warlords series, in which the Dothvek Warriors and their females make an appearance.
April 17, 2021
The Secret Warrior💃💋🔪
ADULT Alpha Alien 👽Male Romance💕 and Space Adventure🚀.
Corvak🐺💪🍆⛲🔪, a mighty Vandar warrior and raider, is banished by his ship commander to a primitive 🌎 world, Kimithion III, . It is a backwater planet🌍 with no resources of importance so it is ignored by the Zagrath Empire, the enemy of the Vandar. The inhabitants of Kimithion🌍 are a once amphibious native people and some human colonists.
Corvak🐺💪🍆⛲🔪 realizes the people, who are mostly fisherman and farmers, have literally no defense, and are untrained in combat. He knows someday the Zagrath will come, because the inhabitants have a tremendous secret they are hiding!
He decides to make himself useful and begins training the men in the settlement in hand to hand combat. The first day, he realizes one of the men is a woman, secretly posing as a man. Sienna💃💋 is the young human woman, and she is actually the best of the bunch, but their laws prevent her from learning how to fight. Sienna💃💋 cajoles and bribes Corvak🐺💪🍆⛲🔪 to train her in secret. Against his better judgment, Corvak begins training her and starts to have feelings for her.
ARC Provided by Bookfunnel 🌀
I got this ebook on Amazon with KU.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.
This book has more of a story than many ADULT sci-fi romance books of this genre. The story ends in a cliffhanger that leads to the next book in the series.
ADULT Alpha Alien 👽Male Romance💕 and Space Adventure🚀.
Corvak🐺💪🍆⛲🔪, a mighty Vandar warrior and raider, is banished by his ship commander to a primitive 🌎 world, Kimithion III, . It is a backwater planet🌍 with no resources of importance so it is ignored by the Zagrath Empire, the enemy of the Vandar. The inhabitants of Kimithion🌍 are a once amphibious native people and some human colonists.
Corvak🐺💪🍆⛲🔪 realizes the people, who are mostly fisherman and farmers, have literally no defense, and are untrained in combat. He knows someday the Zagrath will come, because the inhabitants have a tremendous secret they are hiding!
He decides to make himself useful and begins training the men in the settlement in hand to hand combat. The first day, he realizes one of the men is a woman, secretly posing as a man. Sienna💃💋 is the young human woman, and she is actually the best of the bunch, but their laws prevent her from learning how to fight. Sienna💃💋 cajoles and bribes Corvak🐺💪🍆⛲🔪 to train her in secret. Against his better judgment, Corvak begins training her and starts to have feelings for her.
ARC Provided by Bookfunnel 🌀
I got this ebook on Amazon with KU.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.
This book has more of a story than many ADULT sci-fi romance books of this genre. The story ends in a cliffhanger that leads to the next book in the series.
September 9, 2025
She Fought Like a Girl—and That Was the Problem
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚💜💙❤️🤎
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 😋🙂☺️😍🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Duet Narration
🛡️ Outcast Warrior Meets Rebellious Dreamer
Audiobook Review: Punished by Tana Stone
Narrated by Marcio Catalano & Addison Barnes
---
🦸🏻♂️ Hero: Corvak
Exiled from his Vandar warship and stranded on the peaceful alien world of Kamithian 3, Corvak is a warrior without a war. Though the Kamithirians welcome him, their pacifist ways leave him restless. Immortality is the planet’s gift, but for Corvak, eternal boredom is no reward. He earns local hero status after fending off an invasion, yet his true ambition lies in training the Kamithirian males to defend themselves—whether they want to or not. His presence is a storm waiting to break, and Kamithian 3 may not be as safe as it seems.
---
🦸🏼♀️ Heroine: Sienna
Sienna is a human firebrand in a society that insists she stay silent. Raised by a drunken missionary father who clings to patriarchal beliefs, she dreams of becoming a warrior—despite a culture that forbids women from training. Her bond with her sister Juliet is strained, especially with the arrival of the imposing Vandar warrior, Corvak, who stirs feelings Sienna swore she’d never entertain. Marriage is a trap she refuses to fall into, especially after watching it destroy her mother. But when war looms, Sienna’s defiance becomes her greatest weapon.
---
🔥 Plot Snapshot
Sienna’s family wants her to marry Donnell, the arrogant son of a minister. Juliet, smitten with Donnell herself, is caught in the emotional crossfire. But Donnell only has eyes for Sienna—who would rather spar than swoon. Disguised in a cloak, Sienna infiltrates the male-only training sessions and quickly proves herself, even besting Corvak in combat. Her identity is revealed, and she’s cast out despite her skill. But when the Zagrath—a ruthless faction of Earth’s former elite—set their sights on Kamithian 3’s secret to immortality, Corvak may have no choice but to turn to the one warrior who’s already proven she’s more than worthy.
---
❤️🔥 What Worked
• Sienna’s arc is a standout: She’s fierce, determined, and refuses to be boxed in by outdated gender roles. Her fight for agency on a planet stuck in the past is deeply satisfying.
• The tension builds beautifully: Between the looming Zagrath threat and the training sequences, the story keeps its momentum and stakes high.
---
🤨 What Fell Short
• The Zagrath reveal felt a bit on-the-nose: Earth’s one-percenters turned space colonizers? It’s a compelling idea, but their motivations and behavior felt too familiar, lacking the alien intrigue I hoped for.
• Some of the societal dynamics on Kamithian 3 could’ve been explored more deeply—especially the immortality angle, which was ripe for philosophical tension
---
🎧 Narration Vibes
Dual POVs, dual narrators, duet narration—yes please.
• Marcio Catalano brings a velvety depth to Corvak’s voice, especially in the more intimate scenes. His delivery is smooth, grounded, and quietly intense.
• Addison Barnes injects energy and emotion into Sienna’s chapters. Her faster pace adds urgency, and her expressiveness makes Sienna’s frustration and fire leap off the page.
---
📝 Final Thoughts
This audiobook blends sci-fi, romance, and rebellion with a heroine who refuses to play by the rules. If you love stories where women fight for their place—literally and figuratively—this one delivers. The narration elevates the experience, and while the villains could use more nuance, the emotional payoff is worth the ride.
---
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚💜💙❤️🤎
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 😋🙂☺️😍🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Duet Narration
🛡️ Outcast Warrior Meets Rebellious Dreamer
Audiobook Review: Punished by Tana Stone
Narrated by Marcio Catalano & Addison Barnes
---
🦸🏻♂️ Hero: Corvak
Exiled from his Vandar warship and stranded on the peaceful alien world of Kamithian 3, Corvak is a warrior without a war. Though the Kamithirians welcome him, their pacifist ways leave him restless. Immortality is the planet’s gift, but for Corvak, eternal boredom is no reward. He earns local hero status after fending off an invasion, yet his true ambition lies in training the Kamithirian males to defend themselves—whether they want to or not. His presence is a storm waiting to break, and Kamithian 3 may not be as safe as it seems.
---
🦸🏼♀️ Heroine: Sienna
Sienna is a human firebrand in a society that insists she stay silent. Raised by a drunken missionary father who clings to patriarchal beliefs, she dreams of becoming a warrior—despite a culture that forbids women from training. Her bond with her sister Juliet is strained, especially with the arrival of the imposing Vandar warrior, Corvak, who stirs feelings Sienna swore she’d never entertain. Marriage is a trap she refuses to fall into, especially after watching it destroy her mother. But when war looms, Sienna’s defiance becomes her greatest weapon.
---
🔥 Plot Snapshot
Sienna’s family wants her to marry Donnell, the arrogant son of a minister. Juliet, smitten with Donnell herself, is caught in the emotional crossfire. But Donnell only has eyes for Sienna—who would rather spar than swoon. Disguised in a cloak, Sienna infiltrates the male-only training sessions and quickly proves herself, even besting Corvak in combat. Her identity is revealed, and she’s cast out despite her skill. But when the Zagrath—a ruthless faction of Earth’s former elite—set their sights on Kamithian 3’s secret to immortality, Corvak may have no choice but to turn to the one warrior who’s already proven she’s more than worthy.
---
❤️🔥 What Worked
• Sienna’s arc is a standout: She’s fierce, determined, and refuses to be boxed in by outdated gender roles. Her fight for agency on a planet stuck in the past is deeply satisfying.
• The tension builds beautifully: Between the looming Zagrath threat and the training sequences, the story keeps its momentum and stakes high.
---
🤨 What Fell Short
• The Zagrath reveal felt a bit on-the-nose: Earth’s one-percenters turned space colonizers? It’s a compelling idea, but their motivations and behavior felt too familiar, lacking the alien intrigue I hoped for.
• Some of the societal dynamics on Kamithian 3 could’ve been explored more deeply—especially the immortality angle, which was ripe for philosophical tension
---
🎧 Narration Vibes
Dual POVs, dual narrators, duet narration—yes please.
• Marcio Catalano brings a velvety depth to Corvak’s voice, especially in the more intimate scenes. His delivery is smooth, grounded, and quietly intense.
• Addison Barnes injects energy and emotion into Sienna’s chapters. Her faster pace adds urgency, and her expressiveness makes Sienna’s frustration and fire leap off the page.
---
📝 Final Thoughts
This audiobook blends sci-fi, romance, and rebellion with a heroine who refuses to play by the rules. If you love stories where women fight for their place—literally and figuratively—this one delivers. The narration elevates the experience, and while the villains could use more nuance, the emotional payoff is worth the ride.
---
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
February 3, 2022
I thought I’d hate corvek but this is my favorite book in the series
October 31, 2024
**3.2/5 stars**
After being banished from his Horde for insubordination, Corvak, the former battle chief, finds himself exiled on a planet that reluctantly accepts him. In exchange for sanctuary, he must teach the citizens how to defend themselves. This planet harbors a secret that could attract the attention of the Zagrath, so they must prepare for a potential attack. Meanwhile, Sienna is weary of the traditional and misogynistic culture that defines her world. Determined to forge her own path, she rejects the idea of marriage and yearns to learn how to fight! She has a deal for the Vandar; if he helps her to learn how to fight, she will help him get off of this planet. Will Corvak accept Sienna's deal?
Sienna was a bit of a tomboy, yet she maintained a distinctly feminine touch, driven by her determination to defy the traditional expectations of her people. She was a strong and uplifting presence, embracing her individuality without any pretense.
In the earlier books, Corvak made several appearances, consistently opposing the idea of taking human women as mates. I was eager to see how his own story would unfold and how he would come to fall for a human. While I can’t say I was disappointed, I also wasn’t blown away. He turned out to be different from what I anticipated—softer and more patient with Sienna, but at least he still retained his grumpy and serious demeanor.
Overall, I think they made a really good couple with great chemistry. There was a bit of push and pull from Corvak, even though he was the first one to feel the attraction. He just had to figure out his feelings and accept that she meant more to him than he expected.
✔️HEA
✔️Standalone Part of a series
✔️Dual POV
✔️Grumpy/Sunshine trope
✔️Fated Mates
✔️Broody/ Protective H
✔️Sunshine/Strong/Virgin h
✔️No OW/OM
✔️No cheating
🔥 Steam level: 2/5
⚡Content warning
⚡Trigger warning
I believe this series has a main plot that will chronologically develop with each installment, so you probably want to read them all in order.
After being banished from his Horde for insubordination, Corvak, the former battle chief, finds himself exiled on a planet that reluctantly accepts him. In exchange for sanctuary, he must teach the citizens how to defend themselves. This planet harbors a secret that could attract the attention of the Zagrath, so they must prepare for a potential attack. Meanwhile, Sienna is weary of the traditional and misogynistic culture that defines her world. Determined to forge her own path, she rejects the idea of marriage and yearns to learn how to fight! She has a deal for the Vandar; if he helps her to learn how to fight, she will help him get off of this planet. Will Corvak accept Sienna's deal?
“I’d rather have one lifetime filled with adventure, than a dozen lifetimes filled with nothing special. Life means more when you know it isn’t forever.”
Sienna was a bit of a tomboy, yet she maintained a distinctly feminine touch, driven by her determination to defy the traditional expectations of her people. She was a strong and uplifting presence, embracing her individuality without any pretense.
In the earlier books, Corvak made several appearances, consistently opposing the idea of taking human women as mates. I was eager to see how his own story would unfold and how he would come to fall for a human. While I can’t say I was disappointed, I also wasn’t blown away. He turned out to be different from what I anticipated—softer and more patient with Sienna, but at least he still retained his grumpy and serious demeanor.
“It gives you something more powerful to fight for. Revenge is good, but love is better.”
Overall, I think they made a really good couple with great chemistry. There was a bit of push and pull from Corvak, even though he was the first one to feel the attraction. He just had to figure out his feelings and accept that she meant more to him than he expected.
✔️HEA
✔️Standalone Part of a series
✔️Dual POV
✔️Grumpy/Sunshine trope
✔️Fated Mates
✔️Broody/ Protective H
✔️Sunshine/Strong/Virgin h
✔️No OW/OM
✔️No cheating
🔥 Steam level: 2/5
⚡Content warning
⚡Trigger warning
I believe this series has a main plot that will chronologically develop with each installment, so you probably want to read them all in order.
Raider Warlords of the Vandar Series
1. Possessed - 2. Plundered
3. Pillaged - 4. Pursued
5. Punished* - 6. Provoked
7. Prodigal - 8. Prisoner
9. Protector - 10. Prince
April 12, 2021
Nooooooooooo, I need more. Dang it...every time I read one of these books, I need the next one right now…*stomps foot*. Every time, I wine and pout, you know the normal adult reaction to not getting more of what you want🤣….because I’m a grown up that way. They are so addicting. I always want more of this series book crack, it’s just that great.
This is Corvak’s aka tough guys book, remember he got exiled to a primitive planet. Good times *shakes head*. Sienna is all kinds of a fighter, and stubborn, she was perfect for him. He can’t train her to fight with the others, because she’s female...and like I said, primitive planet. But, because she won’t accept that, she strikes a deal with Corvak, to train with him privately. Soooo, smart and battle ready, it’s like he’s with the female version of himself *wags eyebrows*.
Safe read, fantastic and addictive storyline, because as we already know, nothing is truly peaceful in this world. These two had crazy heat, and I love that Sienna was bold with him, and stood her ground….he loved it too. Outside of Sienna, not sure I have some new favorites in this book, just old favorites. Well, we do get to see the infamous Deranged Warlord. We get to see our favorite crew of badass female bounty hunters and their mates, from her series Barbarians of the Sand Planet...I forgot how much Tori cracks me up...skirts, pretty boy...lmao. And I love that she has intertwined these series. An epilogue that had me chanting “I want more” “I want more”, and a true mate marking hea. Next book please. I will be “patiently” waiting *shakes head*.
This is Corvak’s aka tough guys book, remember he got exiled to a primitive planet. Good times *shakes head*. Sienna is all kinds of a fighter, and stubborn, she was perfect for him. He can’t train her to fight with the others, because she’s female...and like I said, primitive planet. But, because she won’t accept that, she strikes a deal with Corvak, to train with him privately. Soooo, smart and battle ready, it’s like he’s with the female version of himself *wags eyebrows*.
Safe read, fantastic and addictive storyline, because as we already know, nothing is truly peaceful in this world. These two had crazy heat, and I love that Sienna was bold with him, and stood her ground….he loved it too. Outside of Sienna, not sure I have some new favorites in this book, just old favorites. Well, we do get to see the infamous Deranged Warlord. We get to see our favorite crew of badass female bounty hunters and their mates, from her series Barbarians of the Sand Planet...I forgot how much Tori cracks me up...skirts, pretty boy...lmao. And I love that she has intertwined these series. An epilogue that had me chanting “I want more” “I want more”, and a true mate marking hea. Next book please. I will be “patiently” waiting *shakes head*.
September 21, 2024
Now, this one was really, really good. This FMC could kick ass. She was barely trained, and she still managed to get some good hits in, and she rescued herself, which was great. The MMC was a bit of a dunce sometimes, but overall, I liked him. I'm glad he got his HEA. Although I do think that his old Raas should have acknowledged him. Also, I wish the bad guy would've gotten publicly denounced, but oh well, the rest was good.
December 22, 2024
I’m liking the FMC’s more as the series progresses - bit more fire and a bit more fight.
September 18, 2024
4.5 stars
"Raider Warlords of the Vandar" is a steamy sci-fi romance series, much like Tana's other series. The series follows the Vandar, a group of hot and sexy alpha aliens who travel across galaxies as raiders. However, they are not what everyone in the empire believes them to be. They actually fight for freedom against the empire, which takes what it wants. Along their journey, they encounter more than they could have hoped for. The series is full of action, war, and sexy themes as they traverse the skies. Tana's worlds and characters are well-written and believable. If you love sci-fi with sexy aliens and hot romance, you will enjoy Tana's work.
"Raider Warlords of the Vandar" is a steamy sci-fi romance series, much like Tana's other series. The series follows the Vandar, a group of hot and sexy alpha aliens who travel across galaxies as raiders. However, they are not what everyone in the empire believes them to be. They actually fight for freedom against the empire, which takes what it wants. Along their journey, they encounter more than they could have hoped for. The series is full of action, war, and sexy themes as they traverse the skies. Tana's worlds and characters are well-written and believable. If you love sci-fi with sexy aliens and hot romance, you will enjoy Tana's work.
September 13, 2021
3 Stars, for a book that was a pleasant enough read, but could've been so much better with just a little more effort on the part of the author.
This is the fifth book in the series, apparently, but it's the first book in the series I've read. I don't actually think that was a problem at all, and I'd say this can 100% be read as a standalone, if, like me, you're unsure about the series and this is the plot that stands out to you the most. The author does a good job of giving you the information you need without bogging you down in unnecessary recapping of prior books, and while it does seem like we get a few cameos from characters who must've been in previous books, it really and genuinely was not problematic that I had no idea who these people were. They weren't important to the plot, and for once, I think an author is 100% correct to say each book in the series can be read as a standalone.
A couple of pet peeves:
For whatever reason, this author, like so many other authors in this genre, chooses to throw in a whole "old earth sayings are rarely said in this futuristic space world, yet This Super Quirky MC uses them all the time because Personality!" thing... and I just hate this trend. The "old earth sayings" don't even seem out of place in the new world, so it doesn't even make sense for them to be as "quirky" as the author wants them to be, and we're also given literally no reason to believe the main character would know any "old earth sayings that aren't used in common discourse," anyways. She's not a historian or an archeologist, there's no other personality details given about her that would indicate she collects old books or whatever. It's just thrown in there to give the character "depth," but it ends up doing the opposite, in my opinion.
The villain is cartoonishly evil just for the sake of being evil, and the whole thing is just so stereotypical and predictable. Of course, there's a pompous rich dick who wants to marry our heroine, but he's an ass and she's not interested. Of course, he doesn't take no for an answer, and goes from mysogynistic to outright abusive in a matter of seconds. ...I just don't get why authors feel the need to use these kinds of characters as foils for their Heroes. The Hero should stand out as a Good Guy (unless we're going for an Antihero or something similarly more complicated) without needing to have 'competition' for the heroine's affections from an Actual Asshole Of A Villain. Like, come on. And, to be clear, the hero here in this book would stand out just fine without this villainous character; he's completely unnecessary and only weakens the plot and the characters, if you ask me. But, whatever.
Every character in this book has the same annoying, strange habit of talking aloud to themselves... not in a way that feels natural, but in a way that almost responds to the narrator or continues on from a sentence narrated. It just feels out of place, odd, and clunky as hell, and it's not just a character quirk, because literally every character does this for some inexplicable reason. For instance:
The world's fastest turn-around occurred midway through the book, where we went from:
to:
in less than three pages. ...Unironically.
Most of these were just small annoyances, though, in the grand scheme of things. Except for one thing: The heroine hits the hero in anger, not during one of their sparring sessions, and it's played off like this is an acceptable thing and a sign of the heroine being Badass and Spunky. But let's be clear: No. No it is not okay, just because it's a woman hitting a man. Domestic violence is never okay, and should never be portrayed as 'cute' because it's coming from a 'spunky' woman. Additional safety warning for threatened but not actually occurring sexual assault, not between the hero and the heroine, which was really not handled well and not essential to the plot in any way, shape or form; it felt thrown in "just because," as a thing that could make the heroine more sympathetic? I'm grasping at straws, here, because it was that unnecessary.
All of that said, I actually enjoyed the book well enough, as I found it to be a pleasant, easy little read that didn't make me think and gave me the brief distraction I'd been looking for. It's not winning any awards any time soon, of course, and I doubt it'll end up on many people's Favorites shelf, but for someone who likes these themes and is looking for a little bit of mindless entertainment and doesn't plan to take a book too seriously, this read does the trick.
This is the fifth book in the series, apparently, but it's the first book in the series I've read. I don't actually think that was a problem at all, and I'd say this can 100% be read as a standalone, if, like me, you're unsure about the series and this is the plot that stands out to you the most. The author does a good job of giving you the information you need without bogging you down in unnecessary recapping of prior books, and while it does seem like we get a few cameos from characters who must've been in previous books, it really and genuinely was not problematic that I had no idea who these people were. They weren't important to the plot, and for once, I think an author is 100% correct to say each book in the series can be read as a standalone.
A couple of pet peeves:
For whatever reason, this author, like so many other authors in this genre, chooses to throw in a whole "old earth sayings are rarely said in this futuristic space world, yet This Super Quirky MC uses them all the time because Personality!" thing... and I just hate this trend. The "old earth sayings" don't even seem out of place in the new world, so it doesn't even make sense for them to be as "quirky" as the author wants them to be, and we're also given literally no reason to believe the main character would know any "old earth sayings that aren't used in common discourse," anyways. She's not a historian or an archeologist, there's no other personality details given about her that would indicate she collects old books or whatever. It's just thrown in there to give the character "depth," but it ends up doing the opposite, in my opinion.
The villain is cartoonishly evil just for the sake of being evil, and the whole thing is just so stereotypical and predictable. Of course, there's a pompous rich dick who wants to marry our heroine, but he's an ass and she's not interested. Of course, he doesn't take no for an answer, and goes from mysogynistic to outright abusive in a matter of seconds. ...I just don't get why authors feel the need to use these kinds of characters as foils for their Heroes. The Hero should stand out as a Good Guy (unless we're going for an Antihero or something similarly more complicated) without needing to have 'competition' for the heroine's affections from an Actual Asshole Of A Villain. Like, come on. And, to be clear, the hero here in this book would stand out just fine without this villainous character; he's completely unnecessary and only weakens the plot and the characters, if you ask me. But, whatever.
Every character in this book has the same annoying, strange habit of talking aloud to themselves... not in a way that feels natural, but in a way that almost responds to the narrator or continues on from a sentence narrated. It just feels out of place, odd, and clunky as hell, and it's not just a character quirk, because literally every character does this for some inexplicable reason. For instance:
I’d finally flopped down onto the couch and let sleep overtake me, too weary to stagger back to the sleeping chamber. “Which was a mistake,” I mumbled, as I tried to swivel my neck, flinching from the pain.
The world's fastest turn-around occurred midway through the book, where we went from:
Even though Vandar didn’t lie, I couldn’t admit to her or myself that I was so weak as to desire the female I’d promised to teach.
to:
I lied.
in less than three pages. ...Unironically.
Most of these were just small annoyances, though, in the grand scheme of things. Except for one thing: The heroine hits the hero in anger, not during one of their sparring sessions, and it's played off like this is an acceptable thing and a sign of the heroine being Badass and Spunky. But let's be clear: No. No it is not okay, just because it's a woman hitting a man. Domestic violence is never okay, and should never be portrayed as 'cute' because it's coming from a 'spunky' woman. Additional safety warning for threatened but not actually occurring sexual assault, not between the hero and the heroine, which was really not handled well and not essential to the plot in any way, shape or form; it felt thrown in "just because," as a thing that could make the heroine more sympathetic? I'm grasping at straws, here, because it was that unnecessary.
All of that said, I actually enjoyed the book well enough, as I found it to be a pleasant, easy little read that didn't make me think and gave me the brief distraction I'd been looking for. It's not winning any awards any time soon, of course, and I doubt it'll end up on many people's Favorites shelf, but for someone who likes these themes and is looking for a little bit of mindless entertainment and doesn't plan to take a book too seriously, this read does the trick.
May 1, 2022
4 1/2 stars!
While this could probably be read as a stand-alone, I HIGHLY recommend it be read in series order for maximum reader satisfaction, as there are reoccurring characters, consecutive timelines and overarching themes.
I have so missed the Bounty Hunting Babes! It is a type of guilty pleasure read for me. I have held off on reading the series for a little bit in hopes that a couple would be available and it looks like it worked. Hopefully there will be more to come from Tori and the rest of their team!
In this story we catch up Korvek, the now former Battle Chief for a Vandar Horde. He was exiled when his former Commander took a human mate and Korvek was convinced she was not being truthful. So he acted and did what he thought was necessary to confirm his beliefs.
Korvek has been sent to a planet that is known to be very peaceful, not technically advanced and very sexist. When he arrives the elders of the planet ask him if he will teach fighting techniques to their males as they fear the Empire will attack and want their planet for themselves. After Korvek learns the secret surrounding it, he knows it is just a matter of time before the Empire comes at them hard. They would do anything to take over the planet if they could confirm what they were accidentally told.
There are a few scenes that may be difficult for sensitive readers, so I have included some warnings below.
There are a couple of reasons I couldn’t in good conscience give this 5 stars. These include:
- Minor grammatical errors
- Open thread with the local would-be beau, Donel
- Wanted closure (maybe justice would be a better description) around what happened with Korvek, Donel, her father, etc. and the sexist ways of the planet.
⛔️ Contains references to, or scenes detailing, subject matter that may be a trigger or offensive to some, including, but not limited to: adult language; mental health challenges; steamy adult intimate scenes with dominance, submission, etc.; violence such as kidnapping, abduction, death, assault, fighting, betrayal, coercion, blackmail, attempted rape, threats, etc.
While this could probably be read as a stand-alone, I HIGHLY recommend it be read in series order for maximum reader satisfaction, as there are reoccurring characters, consecutive timelines and overarching themes.
I have so missed the Bounty Hunting Babes! It is a type of guilty pleasure read for me. I have held off on reading the series for a little bit in hopes that a couple would be available and it looks like it worked. Hopefully there will be more to come from Tori and the rest of their team!
In this story we catch up Korvek, the now former Battle Chief for a Vandar Horde. He was exiled when his former Commander took a human mate and Korvek was convinced she was not being truthful. So he acted and did what he thought was necessary to confirm his beliefs.
Korvek has been sent to a planet that is known to be very peaceful, not technically advanced and very sexist. When he arrives the elders of the planet ask him if he will teach fighting techniques to their males as they fear the Empire will attack and want their planet for themselves. After Korvek learns the secret surrounding it, he knows it is just a matter of time before the Empire comes at them hard. They would do anything to take over the planet if they could confirm what they were accidentally told.
There are a few scenes that may be difficult for sensitive readers, so I have included some warnings below.
There are a couple of reasons I couldn’t in good conscience give this 5 stars. These include:
- Minor grammatical errors
- Open thread with the local would-be beau, Donel
- Wanted closure (maybe justice would be a better description) around what happened with Korvek, Donel, her father, etc. and the sexist ways of the planet.
⛔️ Contains references to, or scenes detailing, subject matter that may be a trigger or offensive to some, including, but not limited to: adult language; mental health challenges; steamy adult intimate scenes with dominance, submission, etc.; violence such as kidnapping, abduction, death, assault, fighting, betrayal, coercion, blackmail, attempted rape, threats, etc.
October 22, 2022
Raiders Warlords of the Vandar is an alien romance series written by Tana Stone. The premises is around a galactic war with two sides: the Zagrath Imperial Empire and those who oppose it. The Empire is made mostly of humans. The Vandar Raiders are warriors that fight the Empire and all who associate, while aiding those who rebel against them. These aren’t noble warriors. The Vandars are ruthless raiders, taking and destroying. The Vandar species are muscular humanoids, with tannish-bronze skin, magical mating tattoos tails and huge cocks (of course).
Written in first person, Punished is book 5 in this series, and follows Vandar raider Corvak and the human Sienna. Corvak was Raas Bron’s majak (from book 4). When Corvak restrained his human mate Alana in his oblesk, he was banished to a pre-warp planet called Kimithion III, where Kimithians and humans lived peacefully side-by-side. However, Kimithion had a secret regarding immortality that drew the attention of the Empire. Corvak agreed to train the residents against the impeding attack. Sienna is a resident of the planet who wants nothing more than to learn how to fight. Being a woman who was promised to the minister’s son, on a planet that forbid women to fight, she made a secret deal with Corvak to train her. The two fell in love during training, which was ironic since his whole reason for being banished was his mistrust of human females, and she gained his mating marks.
What initially made me love this particular series was that this wasn’t some alien species that protected all women and honorably waited for consent. No. They took what they wanted. Which made for some very spicy sex scenes in the first book. I wouldn’t exactly call them “romantic,” more like brutish and carnal, which is right up my alley. I liked the idea of less nobility and morals, and more savage dominance. Unfortunately, there has been less and less of that as books go on, which left extremely disappointed with this read. I will still continue to read the series because they are short well written love stories, but I just wish the author would return to the initial barbaric appeal.
Written in first person, Punished is book 5 in this series, and follows Vandar raider Corvak and the human Sienna. Corvak was Raas Bron’s majak (from book 4). When Corvak restrained his human mate Alana in his oblesk, he was banished to a pre-warp planet called Kimithion III, where Kimithians and humans lived peacefully side-by-side. However, Kimithion had a secret regarding immortality that drew the attention of the Empire. Corvak agreed to train the residents against the impeding attack. Sienna is a resident of the planet who wants nothing more than to learn how to fight. Being a woman who was promised to the minister’s son, on a planet that forbid women to fight, she made a secret deal with Corvak to train her. The two fell in love during training, which was ironic since his whole reason for being banished was his mistrust of human females, and she gained his mating marks.
What initially made me love this particular series was that this wasn’t some alien species that protected all women and honorably waited for consent. No. They took what they wanted. Which made for some very spicy sex scenes in the first book. I wouldn’t exactly call them “romantic,” more like brutish and carnal, which is right up my alley. I liked the idea of less nobility and morals, and more savage dominance. Unfortunately, there has been less and less of that as books go on, which left extremely disappointed with this read. I will still continue to read the series because they are short well written love stories, but I just wish the author would return to the initial barbaric appeal.
April 4, 2021
While I never ooh and ah over a book because I am more of an academic, I thoroughly enjoyed Tana Stone’s newest story. It’s another great tale about the Raider Warlords of the Vandar. Corvak, the battle chief, has been exiled from his horde on the peaceful planet Kimithion III. For a Vandar, death is preferable to the shame of exile, and for a warrior like Corvak, it is death times two to be put away on a “peaceful” world. However, the Kimitherians want him to train their males in the art of war because the imperial soldiers are headed their way; they have heard about the secret that makes this world special. But it doesn’t matter how many skills Corvak teaches the males, it is a wasted effort when the first skirmish actually turns into a reality, for they splinter and run away from the fight. They do not have a single drop of testosterone bravery in their bodies. In contrast to the cowardly, useless men, there is a natural warrior on this planet—a female—by the name of Sienna. Her one skill is and has always been fighting which is totally inappropriate according to the males of the planet. She doesn’t care; she wants to learn how to protect her world, and Corvak agrees to work with her in secret. Needless to say, though he fights the human female’s lure because he feels the Earthling weakens the Vandar, the two fall in love; however, the son of the powerful minister thinks she belongs to him and that he is going to marry her. Sienna definitely has other ideas which do not include the creepy Donal. Thank goodness the bounty hunter females (from the Barbarians of the Sand Planet series) and their mates show up to help Corvak as well as the Deranged Warlord who patrols the hinterlands. With their help, Corvak is able to defeat the empire and save the planet. He now has the means to leave this planet because both groups want him to join them. In the meantime, Sienna has been kidnapped. Honestly, there is so much going on in this story that you have to read it to get the complete joy from it. As a Trekkie fan, I love these space narratives. Keep them coming, Tana!
January 11, 2022
VINDICATION FOR CORVAK!!
This book didn't quite make what happened in the last book better, but it helped. I probably shouldn't have put "vindication" there; it's more like "yay much better story."
This book didn't quite make what happened in the last book better, but it helped. I probably shouldn't have put "vindication" there; it's more like "yay much better story."
May 17, 2021
Who knew I'd call for Corvak💖💞💖
I have to say the male I've disliked for 4 books is now one of my favorites ,Corvak. He didn't like or trust the human woman and in the last book he made Rass Be on so angry he was exiled. His attitude needed adjusting and he got just that in this story. It was nice to see him realize he was at fault and was responsible for his own actions and his willingness to help the people of the planet he was stranded on went along way at redeeming him but it was his interaction with the feisty human woman Sienna that I loved the most. He learned first hand what it was to call in in love. With the very females he spend so much time disliking. Sienna, is a warrior in her own way trapped on a planet that on the surface is peaceful but that hides much. She longs for more than her backward planet can offer especially in its attitude towards women. When a Vandar warrior agrees to train the young men of her village she hope that he will be more forward thinking and train her as well. Sienna turns out to be the best true fighter on her planet, but Corvak fights his attraction at first and refuses to help her. Lol he should have never underestimate a determined woman. She haunts him until they come to an agreement. As they secretly train their feelings grow but danger lurks from the sky and the village. You have to read this book to see how everything turns out. It's one of my very favorite of the entire series! I'm off to read the last with excitement and a heavy heart for I don't want to see my Vandar warriors disappear!💖💞💖💞💖💞💖💖💖💞💖💞💖💞💖💞
I have to say the male I've disliked for 4 books is now one of my favorites ,Corvak. He didn't like or trust the human woman and in the last book he made Rass Be on so angry he was exiled. His attitude needed adjusting and he got just that in this story. It was nice to see him realize he was at fault and was responsible for his own actions and his willingness to help the people of the planet he was stranded on went along way at redeeming him but it was his interaction with the feisty human woman Sienna that I loved the most. He learned first hand what it was to call in in love. With the very females he spend so much time disliking. Sienna, is a warrior in her own way trapped on a planet that on the surface is peaceful but that hides much. She longs for more than her backward planet can offer especially in its attitude towards women. When a Vandar warrior agrees to train the young men of her village she hope that he will be more forward thinking and train her as well. Sienna turns out to be the best true fighter on her planet, but Corvak fights his attraction at first and refuses to help her. Lol he should have never underestimate a determined woman. She haunts him until they come to an agreement. As they secretly train their feelings grow but danger lurks from the sky and the village. You have to read this book to see how everything turns out. It's one of my very favorite of the entire series! I'm off to read the last with excitement and a heavy heart for I don't want to see my Vandar warriors disappear!💖💞💖💞💖💞💖💖💖💞💖💞💖💞💖💞
April 11, 2021
⚔️ “Don’t worry, Vandar. I can take anything you can dish out.”
~~~
I’m so obsessed with this series! I love everything about the characters and with each new story, I love the Vandar and their mates more and more!
Sienna is a total badass. She’s strong, brave, fearless, feisty, stubborn and does not conform to the status quo of her world. She fights hard to protect the people she loves and to get what she wants. She’s just the perfect match for Corvak.
Corvak is a grumpy, angry, dominant and tough warrior, exiled on Kimithion III (yeah... put a barbarian on a peaceful planet…). But he’s also protective and honorable and does everything he can to keep the citizens safe. He’s not a bad guy and I really loved him. I understand the reasons for what he did in the previous book and I respect him for that.
I loved the development of their relationship! I enjoyed their verbal sparring (the yodeling threat was hilarious) and loved the twists and turns and their inner struggles. Their chemistry and attraction was undeniable and their HEA was well-deserved.
I really enjoyed meeting some old friends and allies, too!
Punished is a magnificent story filled with action, drama, suspense, strong characters and steam and I loved every page of it!
And with that epilogue, can’t wait for Raas Vassim’s story!
I was so excited to receive an ARC and I'm happily leaving a review.
~~~
I’m so obsessed with this series! I love everything about the characters and with each new story, I love the Vandar and their mates more and more!
Sienna is a total badass. She’s strong, brave, fearless, feisty, stubborn and does not conform to the status quo of her world. She fights hard to protect the people she loves and to get what she wants. She’s just the perfect match for Corvak.
Corvak is a grumpy, angry, dominant and tough warrior, exiled on Kimithion III (yeah... put a barbarian on a peaceful planet…). But he’s also protective and honorable and does everything he can to keep the citizens safe. He’s not a bad guy and I really loved him. I understand the reasons for what he did in the previous book and I respect him for that.
I loved the development of their relationship! I enjoyed their verbal sparring (the yodeling threat was hilarious) and loved the twists and turns and their inner struggles. Their chemistry and attraction was undeniable and their HEA was well-deserved.
I really enjoyed meeting some old friends and allies, too!
Punished is a magnificent story filled with action, drama, suspense, strong characters and steam and I loved every page of it!
And with that epilogue, can’t wait for Raas Vassim’s story!
I was so excited to receive an ARC and I'm happily leaving a review.
May 28, 2023
Sparring their way into love
I loved, loved Corvak and Sienna’s alien-human, fish out of water with a side of secrets romance. The witty banter and sexual tension between these two was romantic suspense perfection. Two strong determined main characters for the win. Corvak is a Vandar warrior who was recently exiled to a pre-warp planet as a result of his actions while battle chief of his horde. He resents being on the planet and the human female that caused it. Sienna is a human woman who lives on the planet. She does not fit in well with the patriarchal planet’s rules and is uninterested in the ultimate marriage that she is expected to be excited about. When the planet leaders asked Corvak to teach the males how to fight the Empire, Sienna wants to learn too. Since she is forbidden, it needs to be done in secret. Thus begins Corvak and Sienna’s exciting, intense, and fun journey to their HEA. They are well matched in their intensity, stubbornness, and love of fighting. Vandar warriors are clearly no match for human females even if they are determined. The story was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline as told through sweet moments, steamy scenes, fighting, dangerous situations, alien physiology and cultures, evil overlords, loyal friends, painful pasts, drama, snark, plot twists, secrets, and laughs. I love this series.
I loved, loved Corvak and Sienna’s alien-human, fish out of water with a side of secrets romance. The witty banter and sexual tension between these two was romantic suspense perfection. Two strong determined main characters for the win. Corvak is a Vandar warrior who was recently exiled to a pre-warp planet as a result of his actions while battle chief of his horde. He resents being on the planet and the human female that caused it. Sienna is a human woman who lives on the planet. She does not fit in well with the patriarchal planet’s rules and is uninterested in the ultimate marriage that she is expected to be excited about. When the planet leaders asked Corvak to teach the males how to fight the Empire, Sienna wants to learn too. Since she is forbidden, it needs to be done in secret. Thus begins Corvak and Sienna’s exciting, intense, and fun journey to their HEA. They are well matched in their intensity, stubbornness, and love of fighting. Vandar warriors are clearly no match for human females even if they are determined. The story was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline as told through sweet moments, steamy scenes, fighting, dangerous situations, alien physiology and cultures, evil overlords, loyal friends, painful pasts, drama, snark, plot twists, secrets, and laughs. I love this series.
April 14, 2021
Oh Dear! Corvak, former battle chief, let his pride and patriotism lead him astray. He really should have known that attempting to interrogate the female claimed by his Raas would NOT go over well. He was lucky that he only got exiled from the Horder and not shot out of the nearest airlock!
Kimithion III is just about the worst place you could stick a Vandar. Peaceful backwater, no trouble of any kind really except for a bit of a weird way of living. But Corvak's battle skills may not get as rusty as he thought - looks like the Empire have learned of Kimithion's big secret and want it for themselves. But can 1 Vandar teach a bunch of farmers, merchants, and teenagers how to defend a planet in time?
Then there is the problem in the shape of Sienna. She chafes against the way her planet keeps females "safe". Fighting is what she is good at but due to their ancient attitudes, she has been excluded from lessons with Corvak. Wel, that's not going to stop her for long - she'll just have to get a private lesson or two!
There is plenty going on to keep you interested in this book. There is Dona the skeevy Council member's son, a possible hoard of weapons, a long-lived miracle cure to keep under wraps and, of course, an off-the-charts hot romance to contend with. Oh and a wee cameo from some of our favourite Galactic Bounty Hunters! Another great story in the series!
Kimithion III is just about the worst place you could stick a Vandar. Peaceful backwater, no trouble of any kind really except for a bit of a weird way of living. But Corvak's battle skills may not get as rusty as he thought - looks like the Empire have learned of Kimithion's big secret and want it for themselves. But can 1 Vandar teach a bunch of farmers, merchants, and teenagers how to defend a planet in time?
Then there is the problem in the shape of Sienna. She chafes against the way her planet keeps females "safe". Fighting is what she is good at but due to their ancient attitudes, she has been excluded from lessons with Corvak. Wel, that's not going to stop her for long - she'll just have to get a private lesson or two!
There is plenty going on to keep you interested in this book. There is Dona the skeevy Council member's son, a possible hoard of weapons, a long-lived miracle cure to keep under wraps and, of course, an off-the-charts hot romance to contend with. Oh and a wee cameo from some of our favourite Galactic Bounty Hunters! Another great story in the series!
February 1, 2026
Punished is book 5 in Raider Warlords of the Vandar series. Our MMC is Corvac who we first met in book four of the Vander series. Being distrustful of humans, he disobeys Raas Bron by interrogating his fated mate, Corvac is punished and exiled to the distant planet Kimithion III.
Kimithion III is a peacekeeping world, home to both humans and the native Kimitherians however, the inhabitants believe the Zagarth Empire is preparing to invade, and they agree to take Corvac in for reasons that are far from selfless. As part of their agreement for his stay on their planet, Corvac is assigned the role of training both the human men and the native inhabitants in combat, although he is unaware of the looming threat.
This is where we meet Sienna, a strong-willed, fiery human FMC who refuses to accept the future being forced upon her. She is expected to marry Donal, although she has never agreed to this, a man with rigid, outdated beliefs about women being seen and not heard. Sienna wants more than survival or submission; she wants to fight for her planet. She’s feisty, sassy, and fiercely protective of her younger sister Juliette, a baker, while their father is a useless, bitter, drinker who blames Juliette for their mother’s death in childbirth, he sees Sienna’s marriage as a means to improve the family’s standing.
My View: Very much in keeping with the tone and themes of Tana Stone’s Vander books, Punished delivers a satisfying blend of sci-fi world-building, strong characters, and a compelling fated-mates romance. The story moves at a fast, engaging pace. Corvac eventually relents and agrees to train Sienna, and through this forced proximity their bond deepens into a powerful fated-mates connection. Their romance unfolds naturally alongside the growing external threat, balancing action, emotion, and desire. A solid and really enjoyable addition to the series.
Kimithion III is a peacekeeping world, home to both humans and the native Kimitherians however, the inhabitants believe the Zagarth Empire is preparing to invade, and they agree to take Corvac in for reasons that are far from selfless. As part of their agreement for his stay on their planet, Corvac is assigned the role of training both the human men and the native inhabitants in combat, although he is unaware of the looming threat.
This is where we meet Sienna, a strong-willed, fiery human FMC who refuses to accept the future being forced upon her. She is expected to marry Donal, although she has never agreed to this, a man with rigid, outdated beliefs about women being seen and not heard. Sienna wants more than survival or submission; she wants to fight for her planet. She’s feisty, sassy, and fiercely protective of her younger sister Juliette, a baker, while their father is a useless, bitter, drinker who blames Juliette for their mother’s death in childbirth, he sees Sienna’s marriage as a means to improve the family’s standing.
My View: Very much in keeping with the tone and themes of Tana Stone’s Vander books, Punished delivers a satisfying blend of sci-fi world-building, strong characters, and a compelling fated-mates romance. The story moves at a fast, engaging pace. Corvac eventually relents and agrees to train Sienna, and through this forced proximity their bond deepens into a powerful fated-mates connection. Their romance unfolds naturally alongside the growing external threat, balancing action, emotion, and desire. A solid and really enjoyable addition to the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2021
Punished is an awesome continuance of the Raider Warlords of the Vandar and is the 5th book in the series. The story starts up where the last one ends. Bron has dumped Corvak on Kimithion III as a punishment with Corvak agreeing to teach the peaceful Kimitions how to fight in order to protect themselves from an incoming threat. What he doesn’t count on is Sienna, a human who lives on the planet, dressing up as a man to learn how to fight in his ragtag group. After Corvak’s experience with Bron’s mate, he’s still a bit crusty about human females in general. Despite his misgivings, she’s the best fighter out of the group and continues to train her in private once she’s discovered and forced to stop.
Punished is a cute, quick and easy read with smoking hot smexy times. Corvak is super crusty, but still has a great sense of honor and willingness to do the right thing. Sienna is quite the sassy pants and is super fun, really just a person who wants to take charge of her own life. This book is a standalone, but there is an overarching theme that goes through all the books. Can’t wait for Provoked!!
Punished is a cute, quick and easy read with smoking hot smexy times. Corvak is super crusty, but still has a great sense of honor and willingness to do the right thing. Sienna is quite the sassy pants and is super fun, really just a person who wants to take charge of her own life. This book is a standalone, but there is an overarching theme that goes through all the books. Can’t wait for Provoked!!
April 17, 2021
wow just wow another fantastic book in this series I think it's one of the best yet. I love grumpy strict old school Corvak who is so unwilling to see any good in human females for mates and fiesty sassy Sienna who doesn't fit into the world in which she lives. with corvak dumped on this barren peaceful planet both are misfits. sienna wants to break out of her traditional female role and learn to fight to protect those she loves and she's the best one they've got but will anyone realize in time that she is exactly what is needed? as corvak and sienna secretly train together they fall in love despite all the challenges to come and each of their individual hang ups. throw in lots of actions, some betrayal, the there's always one pampered rich kid village idiot who thinks no doesn't mean him, and so much drama this book will leave u excitedly turning pages fast to see how the story ends with a surprise ending I nailed before reading it. LOL this is a MUST have book and u will not be disappointed. I am chomping at the bit now for the next book.
I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my honest voluntary review.
I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my honest voluntary review.
October 9, 2023
Corvak's exile
Another enjoyable twist in the Warlords of Vandar series. Exiled to a backward and peaceful planet, Corvak struggles with the merciful consequences of having challenged his horde's Raas. But he never asked for mercy, and the punishment seems more than he can bear.
Sienna lives a frustrated life, good at only one thing... fighting... and constrained by her culture to conform to the fixed expectations of being female. She's clever, capable, and wanting more. And she's the only one unafraid of Corvak.
An interesting set of twists await both of them, as the Vandar world expands for the reader. I found this story moved quickly. (A good thing.) But there was a largely missed opportunity for the humans to see Warrior women and their mates here... although it's possible, I suppose, that we will revisit the planet in later books... I don't expect that we will. I enjoyed the growth trajectory these characters displayed. And it appears the exiled Raas we've now met will be our next featured warlord, with Sienna's sister about to meet more challenges than she anticipated.
Another enjoyable twist in the Warlords of Vandar series. Exiled to a backward and peaceful planet, Corvak struggles with the merciful consequences of having challenged his horde's Raas. But he never asked for mercy, and the punishment seems more than he can bear.
Sienna lives a frustrated life, good at only one thing... fighting... and constrained by her culture to conform to the fixed expectations of being female. She's clever, capable, and wanting more. And she's the only one unafraid of Corvak.
An interesting set of twists await both of them, as the Vandar world expands for the reader. I found this story moved quickly. (A good thing.) But there was a largely missed opportunity for the humans to see Warrior women and their mates here... although it's possible, I suppose, that we will revisit the planet in later books... I don't expect that we will. I enjoyed the growth trajectory these characters displayed. And it appears the exiled Raas we've now met will be our next featured warlord, with Sienna's sister about to meet more challenges than she anticipated.
June 16, 2024
This female was nothing but an irritation I didn't need and a distraction I could not afford.
5 stars!
I loved this book so much! Sienna was such a fun and badass heroine; she was spunky and not afraid to go up against a revered Vandar warrior, and I loved her so much. Corvak was intrigued by Sienna's strength and tenacity despite his wariness of human females, and I loved watching the tension continue to build between them as Corvak's admiration and attraction towards Sienna slowly blooms. Even though their relationship is a slow burn, once Corvak gives in to the passion between them, the sexy scenes were so hot but still fun thanks to Sienna's creativity. For me, there was just the right amount of danger, action, and angsty feelings between Sienna and Corvak for me to enjoy this story immensely. Well done, TS!🖤
Tropes: hate-to-love-you, teacher/student romance, brooding outcast hero, badass heroine, forbidden love, 'who hurt you' vibes, reluctant hero, alien romance, tail kink, slow burn, slight OM drama (unwanted fiancé, no cheating), STEAMY🔥
January 25, 2022
Vandar warrior Corvak has been exiled to a planet and has agreed to train the men to defend the planet from the Empire. What he didn't count on is female human Sienna who is a great fighter and is not willing to be excluded on the basis of sex. And so determined to succeed she snakes into his home in order to beg him to teach her separately from the men. In a deal, she agrees to help him leave the planet if he teaches her - the question is will she be able to watch him leave without her?
I enjoyed this story which had a determined human female who was not prepared to be discounted just for being female snd \corvak who was determined to resist her and not give in to the intense attraction he had for her. The layers of misinformation and lies were impressive considering that the planet was supposed to be so peaceful but Corvak didn't disappoint with his fierceness as well as his ability to find the attraction of a human female too much to resist. Easy to read and understand, it was very easy to become invested in the story. Contains some explicit sexual content.
I enjoyed this story which had a determined human female who was not prepared to be discounted just for being female snd \corvak who was determined to resist her and not give in to the intense attraction he had for her. The layers of misinformation and lies were impressive considering that the planet was supposed to be so peaceful but Corvak didn't disappoint with his fierceness as well as his ability to find the attraction of a human female too much to resist. Easy to read and understand, it was very easy to become invested in the story. Contains some explicit sexual content.
April 10, 2021
I was so pleased to read this book, the latest in Tana’s Vandar Series. In the last book, the Horde’s Raas’s Battle Chief found himself exiled on a planet and l was wondering what happened to him, well wonder no more, this is his story. It’s a great story and explains the reasoning behind the actions he took whilst with his Horde. He has time to ponder on his deeds but is also determined to help the inhabitants of the planet prepare for conflict. One of his pupils just turns out to be a rather fiesty female, their relationship has many twists and turns before they get their HEA. I loved the end of this story, it was a surprise to see who turned up to assist the planet! Nice to catch up this crew too. This story is highly recommended and I’m so looking forward to reading more in this series. The next book should be exciting.
I was fortunate to receive and ARC and this is my review.
I was fortunate to receive and ARC and this is my review.
April 14, 2021
I have been waiting for Corvak's story and I'm not disappointed. The battle has been exile to a peaceful and primitive planet. Sienna is from a human settlement in Kimithion III and she doesn't fit in but with a Vandar warrior being there and teaching the males how to fight, she must find a way to fight too.
Oh, these books are so addictive! It's a relatively easy read with some danger, a Vandar who's not keen on humans and a fighting female who more than he expected and can't resist, there's no way they're not meant for each other but pigheadedness may get in the way. The Bounty babes make an appearance and it was so good to see them intermix in this series again.
We get a glimpse of who the next book might be and I'm antsy for it the Derange Warlord and Juliette.
I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Oh, these books are so addictive! It's a relatively easy read with some danger, a Vandar who's not keen on humans and a fighting female who more than he expected and can't resist, there's no way they're not meant for each other but pigheadedness may get in the way. The Bounty babes make an appearance and it was so good to see them intermix in this series again.
We get a glimpse of who the next book might be and I'm antsy for it the Derange Warlord and Juliette.
I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 22, 2021
Everyone has secrets
Corvak has been banished from the horde he has called family for years. He is now on a backwoods planet that has hardly no technology, there is no fighting or even weapons. What is a former weapons master to do?
Soon the Kiminthian leaders approach him to teach the younger males to fight because they believe that the Zagrath may come to the planet eventually and they want to be able to protect themselves.
Sienna is a human female on the planet that won't allow women to do anything except marry and have children. They are required to live with their father until they are married. They may have jobs but they are not allowed to participate in the fight training. Sienna I fed up with their primitive ways. She will learn to fight no matter what anyone says.
This is an interesting storyline and I loved the ending and epilogue. The fact that we get to see some characters from a previous series is totally awesome!!
Corvak has been banished from the horde he has called family for years. He is now on a backwoods planet that has hardly no technology, there is no fighting or even weapons. What is a former weapons master to do?
Soon the Kiminthian leaders approach him to teach the younger males to fight because they believe that the Zagrath may come to the planet eventually and they want to be able to protect themselves.
Sienna is a human female on the planet that won't allow women to do anything except marry and have children. They are required to live with their father until they are married. They may have jobs but they are not allowed to participate in the fight training. Sienna I fed up with their primitive ways. She will learn to fight no matter what anyone says.
This is an interesting storyline and I loved the ending and epilogue. The fact that we get to see some characters from a previous series is totally awesome!!
April 16, 2021
This was an alien warrior romance. The story was well developed and the world building was amazing. The characters were fierce and kiss a**.
Corvak the Vandar battle chief for Raas Bron was exiled to Kimirthion III after defying his leader. He has agreed to train the natives and humans who live on the planet to fight in case of an Empire attack.
Sienna wants to learn to fight. It is the only thing she is good at and feels exhilarated when doing so. She sneaks into the training session and is the best fighter. Unfortunately Corvak has to kick her out because women are not allowed to fight in their culture. She later convinces him to teach her privately at night and she will later help him get off the planet. They fall in love and after the Empire attacks the planet they leave together.
Corvak the Vandar battle chief for Raas Bron was exiled to Kimirthion III after defying his leader. He has agreed to train the natives and humans who live on the planet to fight in case of an Empire attack.
Sienna wants to learn to fight. It is the only thing she is good at and feels exhilarated when doing so. She sneaks into the training session and is the best fighter. Unfortunately Corvak has to kick her out because women are not allowed to fight in their culture. She later convinces him to teach her privately at night and she will later help him get off the planet. They fall in love and after the Empire attacks the planet they leave together.
March 31, 2024
4.5 Stars
Punished is the fifth book in the fantastic Raider Warlords of the Vandar series by Tana Stone.
Raider Warlords of Vandar Series by Tana Stone is another fantastic sci-fi romance series – with an ‘abduction and seduction’ theme that runs through the collection.
With Alien Warlords, resistance fighters, space battles, action, adventure, captives, war, alpha males, tension, intrigue, emotion, drama, and danger- while the vivid world-building made this series all the more enjoyable.
Each book could be read as a standalone, but there is a ‘bigger picture’ being painted in the background, therefore, I really recommend reading the entire series (in sequence) so you don’t miss any of the important interconnected details, which will elevate you whole reading experience.
Looking forward to more from Ms. Stone…
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Tana Stone!
Punished is the fifth book in the fantastic Raider Warlords of the Vandar series by Tana Stone.
Raider Warlords of Vandar Series by Tana Stone is another fantastic sci-fi romance series – with an ‘abduction and seduction’ theme that runs through the collection.
With Alien Warlords, resistance fighters, space battles, action, adventure, captives, war, alpha males, tension, intrigue, emotion, drama, and danger- while the vivid world-building made this series all the more enjoyable.
Each book could be read as a standalone, but there is a ‘bigger picture’ being painted in the background, therefore, I really recommend reading the entire series (in sequence) so you don’t miss any of the important interconnected details, which will elevate you whole reading experience.
Looking forward to more from Ms. Stone…
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Tana Stone!
April 14, 2021
There is always something going on with one of Tanner stones stories, she is truly an enchantress who weaves a spell to draw her audience in. As with the previous books in this series, this story didn’t fail to bring you into the excitement of the story. I fell in love with the characters Raas Corvak and Sienna, I thoroughly enjoyed the drama and the excitement of the things that they had to endure to reach the point where they could no longer keep their hands off each other and eventually fell in love with each other and lived happily ever after. But we know that but it’s not the end of the story and we will have to keep reading what happens with Juliette and Raas Vassim.
I was given an advanced copy of this book to read and review with my honest and fair opinion
I was given an advanced copy of this book to read and review with my honest and fair opinion
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