Reviewing Cherish by Lexi Ander

Cherish (Valespian Pact #4) by Lexi Ander  5*

BLURB: 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. Warnings: violence, captivity, experimentation/not shown, physical trauma, death of unnamed character/not shown, talk of suicide, suicide not on page, death of chicks when eggs go cold.

My Review: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 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.

n.b. Look for my other post today - OWI has a blog tour for this book going on with a nice little giveaway.