A NIGHT OWL REVIEWS BOOK REVIEW | Reviewed by: Daisiemae
When I started the second installment of the Borders of the Worlds Saga: The Soldier by Mark Alders, I had high expectations. I loved the first book in the series, The Nourisher, and was anxious to read what new and exciting adventures Drake and Vernon were in for next. I'm happy to say that I loved this book as much as I loved the first one and now I'm officially addicted to reading this series and more from the author himself. The Soldier pretty much begins where the first book ended. Drake and his alien lover, Vernon, are very much in love and have a strong bond between them that will not be broken. Drake continues to `nourish' Vernon's eggs with his sperm, and every time they mate, it just solidifies the love and the amazing connection they have formed between them. Unfortunately, there is an ongoing conflict between the species, and Drake and Vernon must leave their happy home in Priaxia to try and negotiate a peace agreement between species so that there will be safety, peace and harmony again. The Soldier mimics the same hair raising adventures and all-consuming love between Drake and his lover, Vernon. There were times throughout the book that I admit I sat on the edge of my seat with wonder and with hope that Drake and Vernon would continue to escape the evil clutches of their enemies. One of the reasons I loved this book so much is: I adore Drake and Vernon together. I never in a million years thought I would enjoy reading about a thirteen foot spiderlike alien hero and his very human lover. Even with all of the physical differences between them, they truly fit together perfectly. There is something very beautiful and romantically sweet about the love and devotion they share together, and I for one love every scene they have together. Another reason I love this book is: I think the unique and well-plotted out storyline and world building that Mr. Alders creates within these books is incredibly creative and highly addictive to experience through Drake's eyes. There are also many surprises and twists as the story progresses that definitely have me looking forward to the last book in the series, The Incubator. As I mentioned earlier, The Soldier is the second book in the Border of the Worlds Saga. I do believe it's not necessary to read the first book, The Nourisher, to understand the politics and dynamics of the creative and adventurous storyline. BUT, in my opinion, to fully understand the amazing love and connection that Drake and Vernon have together, I HIGHLY recommend these books to be read in series order. Believe me; once you read the first book, you'll definitely be more than anxious to read the second!
May 19, 2011 | 978-1-55487-829-1
5 - Rare Top Pick | 4.5 - Top Pick | 4 - I Liked It | 3.5 - Enjoyable | 3 - OK | 2.5 - It just didn't click
Book Blurb for The Soldier
Drake Glauco, now a successful nourisher and happily joined to Vernon, comes to realize it's time for a Priaxian/human alliance to come to fruition. The joy he has experienced too great for it to not be used to benefit all mankind. The mutual need too important. With each passing day, Drake and Vernon's symbiotic relationship grows just as much as the hatchlings inside the egg the Priaxian carries as the hope for his species.
But trouble stirs in the dark places of the galaxy. A once sleeping giant, an enigmatic race known as the Herdsmen, stirs. Their awakening brought about by many events, including trespassing into their territory. The result of them becoming known is devastating for all the sentient species, especially for humans. The Herdsmen have developed a taste for mankind's flesh.
Can Drake and Vernon negotiate an agreement with the Herdsmen before it's too late? Offer some alternative to the slaughter that will result if they enter human space. Or will their plans to dominate the galaxy obliterate all in their path, including their allies?
All hope once more falls on Drake…and a mysterious Priaxian soldier who communicates to him in his dreams.
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