The peaceful respite for which Zeus and his intended, Dargon and Alpha, had been hoping is shattered when Zeus is unexpectedly drawn to the Waters of Poseidon and told that the safety they’ve been promised is a trap. But the Fal’Amoric aren’t the only important cargo on the Oethra 7, and countless others are depending on the success of their mission. If Zeus hopes to break the silent siege on … Valespia and protect those most precious to him, he will need not just powerful allies but the fortitude to survive overwhelming odds.
**Striker is a 93k sci-fi romance that has mature themes and content as well as a polyamorous relationship. This 2nd edition has been re-edited and 5k words added to add clarity.
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Striker is the second book in The Valespian Pact series by Lexi Ander. We get more fantastic world building with interesting story and characters, mixed with action, excitement, and sexiness. The series definitely ramps up the desire for more books.
I absolutely fell in love with this series while reading Alpha Trine, and this second book only reinforced my first impressions. The world building is phenomenal, and the author brings the characters to life with their strong personalities and fierce devotion.
This book was really almost like a coming of age story for Zeus. As the reader should know from reading book one, Dargon has to take a step back from the action for a while, whether he’s happy about that or not. This allows Zeus to step into more of a leadership role, even though he may not feel worthy.
The book begins with Canry giving a warning that the Valespian airspace is in danger and to seek help from the Feteine. The Oethra 7 is traveling with Zues’ older brothers on their way to Haven. In order to contact the Feteine, they must first communicate with the Qrxzl, a race that is ancient… But, once again, prejudice causes a near fatal misdeed, and in the process, Dargon is injured as well. Star Eater, an Ancient One, is called and takes over quickly, and in the process, Alpha reveals more of his past and true feelings.
Eventually, an uneasy alliance is formed, but trust is not so easily earned. Alpha takes on a different role in this book as well at times, choosing to move with others on occasion and with Zeus when needed. By the time of the battle for their lives, the kits are with Dargon and Alpha is with Zeus, leading the Monticore army against the Terren and V’Saar invaders, with his brother Canry and his comrades singing the humans into the waiting arms of the sea, and then bolstering Zeus’ forces with a battle song. During this fight, Zeus showed not only his leadership and loyalty, but his deadly force as well.
Once reunited with his family, Zeus is brought to task for making Dargon and Alpha his Udens Mahte’lan before being formally announced to the family, let alone the country. His meme and family are overjoyed to have Canry with them again, but they are facing many political issues. One’s outcome is important to Zeus on a more personal level, while the others have the potential to change the future of his family and all of Atlainticia.
Zeus must face the terrors from his past, and the niggling worry that his birthright brings, while trying to remain as calm as possible for his mate and his people. Faced with bigotry, deceit, and treason, Zeus shows the traitors what true valor is. And, when the hero of rumor is called to step up and take his rightful place as leader, Zeus is humbled by the reaction of his people, and the name on their tongues. Striker.
Overall, this was an ending and a beginning in my mind. One story arc seems to have been settled for the time being, but the final act has not come to pass. Zeus set things in motion for the upcoming adventures, and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Happy reading!
* I received a free copy of this book and I am leaving my honest review. *
Wow! What a wonderful experience this was! The next chapter in adventures of Dargon, Zeus and Alpha takes them across the Galaxies encountering enemies and long forgotten allies, discovering new things about themselves and the worlds around them, falling in love and fighting for their lives against the strongest almost undefeatable enemy, the V’Saar.
This was fast paced suspenseful scifi romance with outstanding world building and characters so diverse and well written that I could almost see them. I enjoyed the political intrigue on planetary level, the court’s backstabbing and the suspicions each race has against each other. It was so engrossing. The back story was so well thought out, the amazingly detailed battle scenes went hand in hand with heart breaking and sweet moments of romance between Alpha Trine. But besides all that there were other sub plots that made this such a full resplendent story about sacrifice, duty, survival and affection no matter what blood runs in your veins.
I loved the dynamics between the three men. Alpha was so unconventional, there was so much more to him than just Dargon’s symbiote! I loved him for his wisdom and ability to open his heart to Zeus. Zeus proved his worth in front of his people and finally found his place. I loved his fierceness and protectiveness. Despite Dargon being a bit of a grouch here in there, he constantly showed his loyalty and love towards both Zeus and Alpha. I loved how he supported them both.
I really liked the Mar’Sani people with their customs, traditions and way of life. The Waters of Poseidon and how it all works for the people was one of the most fascinating features.
Told from multiple POV, the story is rich with suspense, romance, intergalactic politics, secrets and strong beliefs in something greater than oneself. I freaking loved it! So good. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review