Determinant (The Guardians of Vesturon #3)

Aug 10, 2012 Shelly rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is the third book in this series, but it's able to be read as a standalone. I do have the other two books, but I was concerned that I wouldn't have time to read them all and stay caught up with my other review books so I opted to just read this one. I didn't have any problems getting into the plot of the story so it really was good as a standalone. I also don't really feel like I need to go back to read the first ones.

I enjoyed the sci-fi plot of this story a lot. I liked the 2 main charact...more This is the third book in this series, but it's able to be read as a standalone. I do have the other two books, but I was concerned that I wouldn't have time to read them all and stay caught up with my other review books so I opted to just read this one. I didn't have any problems getting into the plot of the story so it really was good as a standalone. I also don't really feel like I need to go back to read the first ones.

I enjoyed the sci-fi plot of this story a lot. I liked the 2 main characters Rykerian and January, but I wasn't particularly drawn to either of them. I definitely felt compassion for January because of her home situation, but I felt like she was kind of whiny especially when it's 3 years past and she hasn't really moved on too much. Here is what I think it was, I felt like I was being told too much. I should have felt these things for her because of how her story is written but she, January, reiterates over and over how she never felt love, etc... I think it's one of those "show me don't tell me" scenarios. It's almost the same with with Rykerian, he's a little too open for me! I think maybe this is one place where it would have been helpful to have read the other books, then I may have had a little more insight into his character. He just seemed to fall in love really quickly, but even that turns on a dime when he gets a little jealous.

My absolute favorite character was Jurek and I would love to read a whole story just about him. He was complex, but unlike the other characters he wasn't an open book. There are definitely things to be learned about him and his mercenaries. I think he added something to the story that was necessary. I am still anxious to see what his connection is to January. I would love to see a spin off series with Jurek and his whole group!

This story really is pretty fast paced, there is a lot of action, but it's not too hard to keep up with and it's plotted out so that it's unfolds pretty naturally. I think that if you are a fan of YA paranormal, you will really like this series. It's a whole new spin on Aliens, and let me tell you they are pretty darn hot!(less)

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Sep 08, 2012 Michelle rated it 5 of 5 stars

I must say that this is my favorite book from the series! It's goodness in every page! While it is good to read the first two books before heading onto Determinant, it can also be read as a stand alone but I'll still advise you to read the first two books because they are good! Besides, you'll be able to appreciate Determinant even more if you follow the series!

Having a family that doesn't love you back sucks. It's pretty bad and January was one of those whose family didn't even care for her at...more

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Jul 31, 2012 Tana rated it 4 of 5 stars

Determinant (The Guardians of Vesturon #3) by A.M. Hargrove

A.M. Hargrove has given us a third book in this series The Guardians of Vesturon, this book is by far one of the best books in this series and I expect the series is only going to get better. A.M’s writing is easy to read, her words flowed well, and character and plot are also well written. Determinant can be read as a standalone but I do suggest you read Survival and Resurrection to get to know everyone.
This book has everything a good b...more Determinant (The Guardians of Vesturon #3) by A.M. Hargrove

A.M. Hargrove has given us a third book in this series The Guardians of Vesturon, this book is by far one of the best books in this series and I expect the series is only going to get better. A.M’s writing is easy to read, her words flowed well, and character and plot are also well written. Determinant can be read as a standalone but I do suggest you read Survival and Resurrection to get to know everyone.
This book has everything a good book should include, romance, suspense, action and did I mention hot aliens. Now I have never been a big science fiction books, but A.M has be rethinking this.

We meet January who is working at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during the summer on an internship. One night she witness some men walk in and take vials out of the Centre. Then we meet Rykerian Yarrister, a Guardian of Vesturon, who is one of those hot aliens I mentioned previously. Rykerian saves January and takes her home. The romance of course is well written and you women reading this will want a man like Rykerian. When January is kidnapped Rykerian will do anything to get her back. Mean while a disease is being spread around the earth and people are sick and dying. The Guardians must save January and our world.

Now I have to talk about Jurik I won’t say how is comes about into this story as I don’t want to give away anything and have to write spoiler alerts. But after reading this book I want A.M. Hargrove to write an entire book on him because he is so drool worthy.

A.M Hargrove has definitely become one of my favorite authors, and I will follow her around until I get Jurcs story oh and Rayn’s and Rykerian have some brothers and one sister so I would expect there to be some more books to be published on all of them.
I would recommend Determinant to all my friends and anyone who follows my reviews or blog.

A.M Hargrove is a fantastic, creative and wonderful person and I hope you take the time to pick up a copy of Determinant.
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Jun 29, 2012 Jessica rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reading-challenge, coming-of-age, indie-authors, on-my-nook, paranormal, review, love-story, science-fiction, series, young-adult, fiction, dual-pov

See more of my reviews on my blog Thoughts At One In The Morning.

My Thoughts:

The third book in this series is a little different that the first two. This book doesn’t follow Rayn and Maddie, although they do appear throughout. Determinant is told from January’s perspective as well as Rykerian’s. We met January while Maddie was in college, and we’ve known of Rykerian since Maddie was saved from her abduction. January’s story starts before Maddie’s did--on the day of her high school graduation.

Whe...more See more of my reviews on my blog Thoughts At One In The Morning.

My Thoughts:

The third book in this series is a little different that the first two. This book doesn’t follow Rayn and Maddie, although they do appear throughout. Determinant is told from January’s perspective as well as Rykerian’s. We met January while Maddie was in college, and we’ve known of Rykerian since Maddie was saved from her abduction. January’s story starts before Maddie’s did--on the day of her high school graduation.

When I started reading about what January went through, my heart went out to her. It was completely unexpected, the tale of her life. Then we see her through college and her internship. This part goes by quickly, which is nice to me since I’m most anxious to get to where book two left off. Once we get to that point, it starts to get interesting. Rykerian was at one point smitten with Maddie, even though she was meant to be with his brother, Rayn. I thought it was wonderful to see him fall for somebody, especially after his heartbreak. And that somebody, January, was definitely a wonderful person. I adored their relationship throughout.

Of course, it can't just end here with the two of them falling for each other... Enter Jurek. He’s not like anyone on Vesturon, his people are completely different. With these differences, he has a certain advantage over them. Because of this, he uses his powers to get them to help him rescue his family from the Xanthians, a people who are not kind in the least. At first, you want to hate the guy for what he is putting the Yarrister’s and January through, but then you see that he really isn’t that bad. At least, I grew to like him a lot. The bond he and January formed was pretty amazing. He helped teach her about things she wanted to know, and also needed to know.

As expected, Determinant was a wild ride, just like the others in the series. A lot of twists and turns and love and sadness. A.M. Hargrove delivers again! I can say that this one is my favorite of the three so far. I liked January a little more than Maddie, she was less, childish, in her manner of speaking and thinking. Seeing Rykerian finally find his happiness was great. And the introduction to Jurek, awesome. I cannot wait to see where the series leads to next!

My Rating:

Very Good: Stay up late(less)

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Apr 07, 2013 Elisabeth Wheatley rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: giveaway-loot, indies, aliens, sci-fi, love-stories-i-actually-liked

I’m not going to lie, I wasn’t sure I wanted to read this book. I became very attached to Maddie and Rayn and I didn’t want to leave them behind, even if Rykerian is a bit difficult not to like. In the end, I found myself liking this book more than the previous two and adoring January and Rykerian to bits!

The plot:
Okay, you could probably split this book into two novellas with their own beginnings, middles, and ends, but I think it worked. I saw the same “problem” here that I did in the previous...more I’m not going to lie, I wasn’t sure I wanted to read this book. I became very attached to Maddie and Rayn and I didn’t want to leave them behind, even if Rykerian is a bit difficult not to like. In the end, I found myself liking this book more than the previous two and adoring January and Rykerian to bits!

The plot:
Okay, you could probably split this book into two novellas with their own beginnings, middles, and ends, but I think it worked. I saw the same “problem” here that I did in the previous book of there being a slight lack of direction after the first half. Nonetheless, this was a wonderful tale and I am very, very glad I read it.

The characters:
January. Poor January! The day she graduates high school (at sixteen) she is thrown out by her “father” who tells her that she is not really his daughter and that the reason her mother has always seemed to hate her is because January is the product of a rape and her mother really does hate her. Forced to live in her car, January is lucky enough to be taken in by various people who try to help her out. As time goes by, she is cut off from her little brother and sister (who are the only people who’ve ever really loved her) by her she-dog of a mother and the total cur who is her mother’s husband. January struggles to make her grades to get into med school, but working two jobs and sleeping way too little take their toll and soon she starts slipping. Nonetheless, she manages to get an internship at the Centers for Disease Control and that’s where she is infected with hemorrhagic smallpox the real trouble starts. I really, really just wanted to hug this poor girl. She had absolutely no one and I just wanted her to be okay! When Rykerian comes along, I was so happy because I knew he’d take care of her (yes, I know it’s a romance and I shouldn’t have been worried).

Rykerian was just…so flippin’ sweet. He is the more shy and awkward of the Yarrister siblings and though I didn’t really take to him in the earlier books, I found myself liking him even more than Rayn. I really enjoyed how this love story follows them all the way to (view spoiler)

One of my favorite characters was Jurek, the inter-matter shape shifter mercenary. He was gruff and a little hard on the outside, but with a heart of goose down and a wonderful sense of humor. I loved his mockery of the Vesturions, only because he was so funny!

An awesome series and I’m looking forward to reEmergent!
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Aug 26, 2012 Sheri rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed, ya

The third book in The Guardians of Vesturon series was my favorite, although I loved the first two books as well. Determinant is fast paced and full of adventure and surprises that will be sure to keep you guessing. Plus, it is packed full of hot guys…who can resist?

January is a great character. She has had a tough life but despite her past, or maybe because of it, she is a strong lead and knows how to take care of herself. She is easily likable and fun to be reading about. I really love Rykeria...more

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Jan 23, 2013 Dianne rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: action-and-adventure, coming-of-age, child-abuse, futuristic-ya-fantasy, new-adult, own, paranormal-romance, sci-fi, series, strong-female-characters, aliens

Best yet in this series! DETERMINANT digs deep, emotionally, mentally. January St. Davis didn't grow up in a warm and loving home and she never knew why. She excelled in school, graduated first in her class at sixteen, and for her graduation present, her parents kicked her out of the house, after dropping a HUGE bombshell aimed straight at her heart. (At this point, I have to say, her parents are now my all-time most hated characters.)

January's story is entwined with Maddie's story, (Survival, R...more

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Oct 16, 2012 Tee loves Kyle Jacobson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-must-reads, oct-2012

HOLY HADES AND ARES!

Can I just say where to begin...... I read this book is 7 hours! I told the kids to leave me alone and go bother their father because mommy needed some "ME" time! Okay that is how good this book is. Laundry and cooking and cleaning be dammed! A.M. has crafted and created a world where I want to live minus the bad stuff and the diseases of course. But HOLY HADES Rykerian can we have Alien babies??

January has had a rough life. She has lost a friend who has just up and disappea...more

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Oct 12, 2012 Aliaa El-Nashar rated it 3 of 5 stars

The covers for the three books in this series are absolutely stunning! I just feel so bad I hadn't had a chance to read the first two in the series, though I will work on doing that as soon as I can. But I was told this book works as a standalone book as well, so I guess that was alright - for the time being.

January has had a miserable life, wanting nothing more than her family to accept her, love her, and treat her as a daughter. But none of that happens as January is kicked out of the house on...more The covers for the three books in this series are absolutely stunning! I just feel so bad I hadn't had a chance to read the first two in the series, though I will work on doing that as soon as I can. But I was told this book works as a standalone book as well, so I guess that was alright - for the time being.

January has had a miserable life, wanting nothing more than her family to accept her, love her, and treat her as a daughter. But none of that happens as January is kicked out of the house on her graduation day with nowhere to go and has to learn how to make it alone at the age of 16. Now that she's 19, life hasn't been looking up either, as one of her friends had gone missing a couple years back and her school life had gone downhill. But it all changes when she catches a deadly disease and is saved from it by Rykerian, a boy so handsome she cannot fathom why he'd help her or want to be with her. Taken away, she begins to discover more about who she really is and that she isn't the freak she always thought herself, but that doesn't mean life would ease up either. There's still a disease spreading, and no one knows how it got there or whether or not it can be stopped.

This book was amazing! Though, I know this is the first time I would possibly ever say this, but the romance in the book kind of ruined it for me. Not completely, but I think it should have been less. I know it's strange, since I love romantic books, yet, in this case, a little more on this amazing Vesturion culture would have been preferred. The dealing of this epidemic that seems to have travelled almost everywhere on the planet, knowing who caused it and how to stop it. The book and the story was completely fascinating and I loved watching January grow. I enjoyed watching her interactions with her siblings, and more importantly how she adapted to what she is. Not to mention I enjoyed her interactions with Rykerian, more from his point of view actually than hers. He was completely exciting, the contradictions of his character and many aspects were so great, his was a character very well developed.

The writing was quite well done, and so were the stories mixed together. It was quick and easy, not complicated and hard to get into. I liked how the story was split into books and how each one held a different point of view. I like getting into the characters' heads, so clearly this was an entertaining read for me and I quite enjoyed it! Not to mention, the names? Rykerian? Different languages? Telepathy? This was definitely my kind of book!

Rating: 3/5(less)

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Oct 12, 2012 Drennan Spitzer rated it 3 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. A.M. Hargrove's Determinant is a hybrid of Young Adult science fiction and Young Adult romance. Think Meyer's Twilight, only substitute aliens for the vampires and werewolves. This means that Determinant should appeal to the young adult reader, particularly the female, who enjoys Twilight, but it also means that thematically Hargrove's novel suffers from the same retrogressive treatment of gender and male-female relationships that we see in Meyer's phenomenally popular series.

Although the third...more A.M. Hargrove's Determinant is a hybrid of Young Adult science fiction and Young Adult romance. Think Meyer's Twilight, only substitute aliens for the vampires and werewolves. This means that Determinant should appeal to the young adult reader, particularly the female, who enjoys Twilight, but it also means that thematically Hargrove's novel suffers from the same retrogressive treatment of gender and male-female relationships that we see in Meyer's phenomenally popular series.

Although the third in Hargrove's The Guardians of Vesturon series, Determinant can certainly be read as a stand-alone novel. Here, Hargrove tells the story of January St. Davis, a college student, who must struggle financially and socially, mostly because she has been completely shunned by her family. After contracting smallpox during an internship with the Centers for Disease Control, January is saved by Rykerrian Yarrister, a charasmatic, attractive male from the planet of Vesturon. Rykerian quickly falls in love with January, and the plot becomes a combination of interplanetary warfare and politics alongside the developing romantic and sexual relationship of January and Rykerian.

Determinant is a quick read, as suits the intended audience. Hargrove's writing style is not particularly polished, and some sections of the novel lack the kind of development that I would have liked. Although not terribly well written, Determinant presents characters who are likely to appeal to this audience in the insecure and somewhat needy January and the overly attractive Rykerian. I wanted more science fiction and less love story. However, I think that many young readers, particularly female readers, will prefer the story of the developing relationship, both emotional and physical, between the two main characters.

Please be aware that the remainder of this review may contain plot spoilers.

What I found particularly interesting about this novel is Rykerian's insistence on chastity in his relationship with January. Several times, she makes overtures indicating that she is ready and willing to have sex with him, but Rykerian, a member of the royal family of Vesturon, insists upon sex only within the boundaries of marriage, for this is the cultural and social expectation upon Vesturon. The upshot of this is, as one may expect, that January and Rykerian, after several makeout sessions, decide to get married, although January is only 19 and has aspirations to finish college and become a medical doctor. What follows are several relatively graphic sex scenes, all couched in terms of their enduring love, bordering on near obsession, for one another and January's pregnancy.

On the one hand, I appreciate the message, particularly for young adult readers, that chastity in a relationship carries value and that, however difficult maintaining one's purity may be, there is a payoff for it in the end. At the same time, it seems somewhat inconsistent to so heavy-handedly insist on this message but then feed readers what amount to fairly titillating descriptions of January and Rykerian's physical relationship after marriage. I feel as though the book is simultaneously saying, "Maintain your virginity!" but, "Here, fantasize about sex," albeit within the structure of marriage, all at the same time.

I also question the implications of January's decision to leave her education and professional aspirations behind in order to marry Rykerian when she's only 19. And yet, the very structure of the plot makes any other choice almost impossible. Earth, as we know it and as January has known it, has been ravaged by plague, violence, and anarchy to such an extent that she cannot return to college and the life she has known once she recovers from smallpox. And because of her family and financial problems, January has all but failed out of college anyhow. The circumstances of the plot, of January's life all but force her to become dependent on Rykerian and to accept the life that he offers her. Rykerian becomes the traditional male stepping in to save January not just from disease but from the mess that her life has become. January's goals and dreams recede, for the most part, once she begins to fall in love with Rykerian, although we are left with the sense that she may someday become a healer on Rykerian's home planet of Vesturon, a calling not terribly far removed from January's goal of being a doctor. Still, the implication seems to be that young women are better off not pursuing their own goals but in marrying young and becoming whatever best accommodates their husbands, husbands who somehow save but also infantilize their wives.

Thematically, then, Hargrove seems to present gender and gender roles within relationships in ways that feel retrogressive and at odds with my own constructions of feminism. Young readers certainly assimilate the thematic implications of literature, and this is particularly true of female readers of novels that deal with intimate relationships. This presentation of gender, chastity, and the role of the romantic / intimate relationship in the development of the central female character, again, feels quite similar to what we see in Stephenie Meyer's Twilight saga. I think it's time that we move beyond this and offer young females something that speaks to their own empowerment.

NOTE: This review originally appeared at www.drennanspitzer.com Please visit me there!(less)

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Aug 21, 2012 Marissa rated it 4 of 5 stars

I thought this was a wonderful story. January has had a tough upbringing, and after learning a big secret the day of her high school graduation, she is forced to leave her cruel/heartless parents and loving young siblings behind. January then heads off to college where she gets used to this new lifestyle. She creates new friendships, but one of her friends and suite mate (Maddie) suddenly disappears, reappears, and then disappears and after two years, is still not heard of. As January is still f...more

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Aug 15, 2012 Cierra (The Book Lover's Report) rated it 4 of 5 stars

This story starts out with a prologue type thing in third person p-o-v. All we know is that this group of guys are stealing a deadly virus from the Center for Disease Control. They come across the girl, and all we know afterwards is that the girl can read minds. Then, the Bad Guys spread the virus around for what we think is 'to save their planet'.

Then, we skip to a girl's point of view, and she's trying to head home, even though she's ready to pass out, has a really high fever, and his hallucin...more This story starts out with a prologue type thing in third person p-o-v. All we know is that this group of guys are stealing a deadly virus from the Center for Disease Control. They come across the girl, and all we know afterwards is that the girl can read minds. Then, the Bad Guys spread the virus around for what we think is 'to save their planet'.

Then, we skip to a girl's point of view, and she's trying to head home, even though she's ready to pass out, has a really high fever, and his hallucinating. All we know before the end of this is that she's lost.

Skip to three years before, and the girl, January, has just graduating college. It's immediately apparent that her parents don't care that much for her when they skip out on her graduation. She goes back home to ask why they didn't and she eventually finds out that she's the product of her mother's rape, and that they ALL hate her (except for her little brother and sister). Her parents then kick her out of the house.

Eventually, we get to present day, and college... Then, when she's trying to head home with the high fever, hallucinations, and passing out. She gets lost in the woods.

And then, part two starts, in Rykerian's point of view. (I'll save that for you all to read instead of telling you it).

So, I'll tell you all right here. I liked the story... but (you knew a but was coming), I didn't really like how the story was mostly worded. It sounded too proper, too stiff to be teenagers/ young adults talking. I connected to the idea of the characters, but I just couldn't connect to the words/ wording. A lot of times it annoyed me, but I liked the story enough that I tried to get over it, and finish the book.

I also didn't like how the pint of views were in parts like 'part one' and 'part two'. I would've liked it better if it alternated between the characters; that would have made it more enjoyable, in my opinion.

So, I gave this book four hearts... well, more of a 3.5.

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Jul 23, 2012 Rachael Woohoo rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, arc, book, ebook, reviewed, romance, review-copy, july-2012, ebooks-i-own

If you want to see more of my reviews, check out my blog @ Moosubi Reviews!

Disclaimer: The fact that I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review has not affected my rating. This review expresses my honest opinion.

Rating Clarification: 3.5 / 5 Stars

I suppose I came into this book with just average or "meh" expectations. Although I enjoyed the previous two books of the series, I was a little on edge about the introduction of a new character from Maddie's life on Earth - Ja...more If you want to see more of my reviews, check out my blog @ Moosubi Reviews!

Disclaimer: The fact that I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review has not affected my rating. This review expresses my honest opinion.

Rating Clarification: 3.5 / 5 Stars

I suppose I came into this book with just average or "meh" expectations. Although I enjoyed the previous two books of the series, I was a little on edge about the introduction of a new character from Maddie's life on Earth - January. I was afraid that January's story would be very similar to Maddie's, kind of like a repeat of a story but in a different voice. Nevertheless, I received an ARC copy from the author (thanks!) and was pleasantly surprised.

January is definitely a different character than Maddie. For one, they have much different backgrounds. While Maddie's parents are dead while January's are alive, Maddie's parents were much more compassionate towards Maddie than January's would have ever been. It was definitely interesting to see a Vesturion story in such a different voice! My only complaint is that January's smarts seemed slightly over exaggerated, almost perfect in a way. Coming from a person whose high school hierarchy is based on the number of AP classes you take and your GPA, it's still rare to see someone that gets a 2400 on the SATs, is the only valedictorian, maintains a perfect GPA, and gets a 5 on all AP tests, while balancing a hard family background and numerous part time jobs. Don't get me wrong - January's definitely an extraordinary character - it's just that it seems slightly unrealistic.

It was also interesting to see Rykerian's POV. In my previous review of Resurrection, I complained that Rykerian as well as his previous attraction to Maddie seemed to disappear. Thankfully, Rykerian reappeared, and was definitely a strong and emotional character. His reactions towards January and her various interactions were also very different from Rayn's, and sometimes I found myself comparing the two brothers. Hmph. Definitely different and interesting!

The plot was also pretty fast paced and, erm, full of sexual tension (hmm, good for the teenage hormones!?) There was definitely a lot of conflict, gunfire, and kidnapping involved, although there was a lot of focus on romance. There's also some trouble and chaos on Earth, which is actually relatively realistic. Hopefully some more development on the situation on Earth will be done.

Overall, Determinant is a new take on the Vesturion legend and is definitely worth your time if you were a fan of the rest of the series. If you haven't read the first two books, Survival and Resurrection, I would recommend that you read them first, although it's not necessary - there is some backstory and explaining in this book. However, reading the first two helps understand more thoroughly what happened in the past. However, I would recommend the series as a whole if you're a big fan of PNR - these books may not be for everyone, but it might be for you (personally, I recommend reading Survival first - it's free pretty much everywhere. If you are a fan of that book, or liked it a bit, I would recommend the rest of the series - there's a lot more action in Resurrection and Determinant!)(less)

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Jul 06, 2012 Alexia rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2012

Where to begin? I was blown away by Determinant - it's definitely my favourite in the series. My emotions were on a major roller coaster ride - completely haywire!!

Rykerian is so sensitive, sweet, sensual, loving and romantic - the list could go on. He's the type of guy that would carry you on his hands and kiss the ground you walk on! Ok, he does have his moments of typical 'guyness' (is that a word? lol), but what guy doesn't? He gained a mate but also lost a close family member - I was gutte...more Where to begin? I was blown away by Determinant - it's definitely my favourite in the series. My emotions were on a major roller coaster ride - completely haywire!!

Rykerian is so sensitive, sweet, sensual, loving and romantic - the list could go on. He's the type of guy that would carry you on his hands and kiss the ground you walk on! Ok, he does have his moments of typical 'guyness' (is that a word? lol), but what guy doesn't? He gained a mate but also lost a close family member - I was gutted!! My throat was so tight from swallowing back tears!

January on the other hand is 'hard', for lack of a better word. She has/had an extremely tough life through and through... seriously, life just kept throwing her curve balls. Her parents treated her badly (like, oh em gee badly), then she was doing so well at college, until a friend of hers disappears... Her grades start dropping, she can't keep up with working 2 jobs as well as attending college and the heart ache of her friend's disappearance. Wow - she has it bad! She is as tough as nails though, pushes through every obstacle life hands her.... until she goes wandering in the woods ;)

January and Rykerian together are amazing. At first it was a touch and go situation - which is obvious when you wake up in a strange house with a robot hovering over you!! But, once they accept each other and move forward... FIREWORKS!! Rykerian has a way with words... damn... if someone had to say such romantic things to me I'd melt in a puddle at their feet - no jokes!

Normally I don't mention the 'bad guy' - but good grief! Slap me silly and call me Sam, this bad boy hit a nerve... in a good way ;) Total bad ass and mysterious hawtness monster of note! Jurek needs his own story - I want to know all about him... I think I'd go so far as to say that, if he weren't a fictional character I would totally stalk him! Really, I would! He has this extremely dangerous side, but every now and then you'll see a different side of him (I don't mean in the sense of multiple personalities), I mean, catch him on a good day and he'll open up and let you see the real him... does that make sense?? Any who... I want to read his story too! Pretty please, with a cherry on the top :)(less)

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Aug 08, 2012 Janelle Stalder rated it 5 of 5 stars

Okay, so I had to give the book before this only four stars, just to show how much better I thought this one was compared to it. They are both great though, don't get me wrong! Determinant just seemed to have everything the first was lacking. I'm not even sure what that is, to be honest. In the beginning of Survival I found myself confused by the numerous flashbacks, and just trying to learn the characters and story. When I realized just what kind of book it was, I was SHOCKED, to say the least....more

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Jul 22, 2012 Maghon Thomas rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy, paranormal, review-4-author, young-adult

First, I know this is book 3, but I felt like you could jump in and read this one alone. It’s written well enough that you get background and info without a dumping of it. Yes, you will know that there has been events in the past, but it wouldn’t hinder reading for you. I know I’ve just said its written well, but I love this writer’s style! And of course I love the whole book.

January is a broken, scared, depressed, defeated girl, yet somehow she survives all these terrible things. Thank goodness...more

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Jul 25, 2012 Nicole rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Teens and Adults!

Shelves: fantasy, fav-author, own, sci-fi, romance, teen, young-adult

Series review short and sweet

While I do readily admitstrugglinga bit with the first two (as I do with most authors 1st works) the payoff is most certainly worth it. Book 3 was awesome and A.M. Hargrove is one author to watch. It maybe just because I am not really big into sci-fi but never the less I am really glad I stayed with the series it is different andthoroughlyenjoyable!

Rating - 4 stars!

Recommended for - teens and adults

Stalk A.M. (she is really great to interact with and I'm proud to...more

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Jul 30, 2012 Clara rated it 4 of 5 stars

Please check out my blog at http://readrw.blogspot.com

A couple of weeks ago I read the first novel of The Guardians of Vesturon series. Survival was okay, the characters really stood out to me, but I didn't love the whole idea of the Guardians. Determinant is the third installment of the series, and I'd still say the same thing if I was telling someone about this series. I love all the detail and the weirdness of all the characters, but the whole E.T. like people just didn't make sense, for me a...more Please check out my blog at http://readrw.blogspot.com

A couple of weeks ago I read the first novel of The Guardians of Vesturon series. Survival was okay, the characters really stood out to me, but I didn't love the whole idea of the Guardians. Determinant is the third installment of the series, and I'd still say the same thing if I was telling someone about this series. I love all the detail and the weirdness of all the characters, but the whole E.T. like people just didn't make sense, for me anyways.

The beginning of the novel, like the first novel in the series starts out in a world where we see everything the main character has ever experiences and continues on to their college life. Then something drastic occurs, which turns the whole miserable story into a charming one, in my opinion.

I admire A.M. Hargrove for her creativity and gumption to have something in a novel that is a pressing topic, which most would like to get rid of but don't want to talk about. If that made sense. I love how A.M. Hargrove makes her characters realistic and their own, one of a kind. The way she moves a story along really is something that I wish I could do. Then there are times when I'd think I should be crying, when I'm not in reality. It's just the reader in my head is bawling her eyes out and giving my heart out to these characters, especially January. Ugh! I can't start to believe how A.M. Hargrove wrote such a broken main character without breaking down from all of her hardships. I also love how she pushes the boundaries of the "aliens" in this novel. It's quite interesting how this is the third installment of a series, but can be read independently.

January St. Davis maybe the most broken hearted, strong character I've ever read. I can't imagine how she turned out all right per se, coming from a family that she does. So I loved how I saw her be kicked when she was on the ground, and then picked up to a sort of heaven like place. Then there is the dialogue with the whole romantic scenes with Rykerian. I could not believe what I was reading sometimes. It became very cheesy at moments that I just wanted to skip the whole scene. Then there were a lot of angst and reassuring going on that kind of got on my nerves, but I guess everything goes right at the end because of it all. My favorite character is Jurek Herdekian because his awesomeness might not be aware when we first meet him, but he is awesomeness personified. It was cute when he spent time with January, and too be honest I was not really wishing for a love triangle, but I didn't want Jurek to disappear later in the novel. I got my happy medium. :)

I really questioned the Vesturons a lot in this novel because something terrible happens to humans they try to save them and honestly I don't see why. I understand that some of the Vesturons significant others are humans, I don't truly understand their motive. I feel like they should have given hope, and said," Whatever, it was meant to be like that." That's how I see aliens doing if they find out that their was a pandemic on Earth, even though it's from a cause from someone else.

All in all I really enjoyed Determinant by A.M. Hargrove with all of the crazy characters and the strange aliens, and making me suffocate during romantic scenes. I'm finding that I've been reading a lot of books that when I'd talk to someone about the book I'd give a head nods, thumbs up. (4 out of 5)(less)

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Nov 04, 2012 Naomi rated it 3 of 5 stars

Determinant is separated into 5 different books where each book is from a different POV, alternating between the two main characters, January and Rykerian. All the books continue on the story one after another and it is interesting to see how both characters process the situations they get into.

When I began reading the first book from January’s POV, I was really shocked! January has had one of the worst childhoods from an emotional perspective. She wasn’t physically abused, more emotionally abus...more Determinant is separated into 5 different books where each book is from a different POV, alternating between the two main characters, January and Rykerian. All the books continue on the story one after another and it is interesting to see how both characters process the situations they get into.

When I began reading the first book from January’s POV, I was really shocked! January has had one of the worst childhoods from an emotional perspective. She wasn’t physically abused, more emotionally abused. You can see that her parents treat her poorly and it really crushed me. She is highly intelligent, finishing High School at 16 and was also the Valedictorian. What parents wouldn’t love that?? All January has wanted from her parents is for them to care about her and what she has accomplished, but they give her nothing. It was so frustrating..... I wanted to jump into the book and shake some sense into these people.

January was able to continue on by herself, but she lacked all confidence due to her upbringing. She was accepted to College and tried so hard to get ahead by working two jobs as well as doing her studies. After three years of hard work she was able to secure an internship for the holidays. By the end of the first book January still lacked self esteem and she almost burnt herself out with the workload. I really sympathised with her because no matter what she tried to achieve it was never good enough.

Book two is Rykerians and this is where the twist comes in. It’s fun to see what he thinks of January. He has felt an attachment to January from the moment he set eyes on her, so he works hard to help her and show her his feelings. She is quite hesitant as she has no idea what love is, so she finds it hard to trust him and to see herself like he does. Together they need to work to help Rykerian’s family prevent war within the universe.

The only issue I had with this book was the massive change in January’s personality in such a short timeframe. She is so timid in the first book and you can see the effect Rykerian has on her in Book two, but in Book three she is now confident, opinionated and outspoken. She is quick to argue with people and is a nonstop chatter box. I found it a bit hard to believe that someone could have a complete change in personality after a few days.

Other than that, the story was fast paced, and fun to read. I liked the new January and was happy she found Rykerian. Rykerian is very protective and will move heaven and earth for January, isn’t that what we all want in our men?? I read Determinant as a standalone and A.M. Hargrave fills us in when details occur in earlier books, so I was able to follow the story easily. There is a lot more adventure in store for fans of this series as the story continues!(less)

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Sep 05, 2012 Meghan rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: e-books, author-review-request, first-reads, reviewed

I was beyond excited to receive this book from Anne Hargrove! If you've been around our blog for a little while, you know I read and reviewed the first two in this series and loved them both desperately! I was even lucky enough to do a interview with the very lovely Hargrove, in which we learned lots about the books and I got to pay her lots of well deserved compliments. You can read that review here.

So I waited ever so impatiently for book 3, and I am very much pleased with what I received in t...more I was beyond excited to receive this book from Anne Hargrove! If you've been around our blog for a little while, you know I read and reviewed the first two in this series and loved them both desperately! I was even lucky enough to do a interview with the very lovely Hargrove, in which we learned lots about the books and I got to pay her lots of well deserved compliments. You can read that review here.

So I waited ever so impatiently for book 3, and I am very much pleased with what I received in the end. We kinda of move on from Rayn and Maddie and instead embark on a story involving Rykerian and a young not entirely human girl named January. We do although pretty much pick up in the same time frame as the second book left off at.

First we get to learn all about January. And maybe you remember her briefly from the first story. It just so happens she was one of Maddie's room mates in college. The more I learned about January, the more I wanted to reach into those pages and give that poor girl a hug. I don't know that I've ever read anything more heartbreaking than what she has to endure in the beginning of the book. She is one strong hearted soldier though, and soldier on she does. She eventually finds herself working at a disease prevention center when a virus leak occurs. January finds herself inflicted and on the brink of death when Rykerian finds her.

What happens after was thrilling, scary, heartbreaking and also heart warming. The diesease is threatening to wipe out the human population and as protectors of Earth, the Vesturion Guardians must find a way to prevent this from happening. But unforeseen and unimagined forces are at work here. We encounter a brand new race that before was never known to exist. They emerge and display their incredible amounts of power, making the Guardians look almost weak and helpless. But which side are they on?! Which side will they align with in the end?

All during this war of galaxies, some evil, some good, and some maybe still on the fence. Rykerian and January are finding their love for each other. January may not be completely human after all, just maybe she finally finds her home and her sense of belonging at last. But of course it doesn't come that easily when Earth is on the brink of destruction and your in love with a man who's sworn an oath to protect it at all costs. Throw in some brand new, incredibly powerful enemies and we've got a big old pot of fun.

Hargrove never ceases to satisfy me. I am so in love with the characters she creates. I love them all like they're my own friends and family. I feel like they are all such unique and amazing people, yeah that's right. I'll just call them people from now on, not characters. Because Hargrove does such an amazing job at bringing them to life. She breathes a fresh, amazing breath of life right into them and they stroll right into my heart as I ride their emotional waves with them. Also, those Yarrister men can stroll right into my heart anytime haha. I wish gentlemen like that still existed! Way to create a whole family of men to make all us ladies swoon haha.

I want to send a massive thank you to Hargrove for sending me a copy to read and review. This series holds a special place in my heart and I am so glad to have stumbled upon it. Already I can't wait to read book #4, come on 2013!!!!(less)

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Jan 24, 2013 Tracey rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: men-of-the-hottnes

This series is great for It's originality. The first two books were enjoying to read. Then this the third, was equally good. I'm so glad it was about Ryekierian finding love. since in the last book I felt bad for him since he had such a crush on his brother Rayns boo, Maddie. but no fear hottie found his own mate in January. January's life sucked big time until Rye, comes to save her from death. cause that's what the guardians do. but there's a connection between them. and sparks fly...surprise,...more

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Aug 08, 2012 Aimee rated it 4 of 5 stars

I signed on to be a part of this blog tour for Determinant months ago. I knew this was book three and I also knew they said this book could be a stand alone but I really wanted to read the first two books first. I have to say that I'm glad I read the other two books first. It helped me feel like I knew the other characters and some history as well.

Having said that, I liked this book better than the other two. I think I just like Rykerian and January more. Rykerian was my preference in the other...more

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Aug 01, 2012 Soma "Insomnia Of Books" rated it 4 of 5 stars

Well, this is the third book in the series, Guardians of Versturon, but as the author stated, it can be read as a standalone. Although it wasn't required, I decided to read the first two books (Check out my reviews here and here). I liked this book very much, and I wonder whether I would have liked it that much if I didn't read the first two books. So you might want to give them a try then read this! Fortunately, the first book, Survival is free on Smashwords (Download it here), and the second b...more Well, this is the third book in the series, Guardians of Versturon, but as the author stated, it can be read as a standalone. Although it wasn't required, I decided to read the first two books (Check out my reviews here and here). I liked this book very much, and I wonder whether I would have liked it that much if I didn't read the first two books. So you might want to give them a try then read this! Fortunately, the first book, Survival is free on Smashwords (Download it here), and the second book, Resurrections is only a few bucks (Buy it here).
So, the first two books were from Maddie and Rayn's point of views. But although this book picks up where Resurrection left off, it is from Rykerian and January's point of views. Which is very enjoyable and humerous.
January is having a difficult life; her mother threw her out of the house, she doesn't know who her father is, and she doesn't have any money. Because of how much she has been through, she doesn't believe in relationships, or love or happiness. But all that changes when she meets six strangely-dressed men in the facility where she works.
Rykerian is Rayn's brother. He has everything he needs and his life is good, but if only he can forget the beautiful young girl he saw near his house. When Rykerian saves January's life,a blazing spark forms between the two. Rykerian finally has the chance to win her over, but she is suddenly taken away from him by an unknown being who threatens to kill her if his demands are not met.
Will January let go of her past, and give Rykerian a chance? Will Rykerian be able to resue January from her abductor? Find out this and much more when you read Determinant. Which is an incredibly romantic, exhilarating read.
Although I didn't like the first two books very much, this book was the total opposite... To say I loved it, is a huge understatement. The plot is much more quicker, you will just swim with the flow. Although the setting is the same, it is throughoutly explained and detailed. And the characters will take your breath away!
I don't know why, but I wish that the first two books were also about Janurary and Rykerian. I loved both of them. January has been through so much, but she is willing to change everything she has believed to get a chance at real love. Rykerian is just the perfect dream boy, protective, caring, strong-willed and overly sensitive. I am head over heels in love with Rykerian, you better not ask me what I will do to him if he is real!
This book is a lovely roller coaster, full of unexpected twists and turns. If you are willing to refresh your views on true love, then you better not miss reading Determinant!(less)

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Nov 14, 2012 Beth Cutwright rated it 4 of 5 stars

What an awesome read!! I completely felt for January St. Davis and her life pre-graduation at age 16. She had straight A's and was the class valedictorian;she thought that would make her parents proud of her. When she arrived home that evening, after not seeing her parents and younger siblings at the graduation, she was thrown out of the house and told not to return. What a shock that would have been! She had never felt love from either her mother or her step father. Now, at sixteen she was on h...more

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Oct 15, 2012 Ivette rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: manual-for-boyfriend, boys-from-out-of-space

This book was a great surprise. After finishing book two on the series I, felt like our main characters had an amazing conclusion. Therefore when I saw that "Determinant" was about my second favorite Prince Alien (no offence intended, just my way of showing my love) my interest skyrocket from 60 to 120. It was a fast moving story, fill with romance, angst and of course some war and politics movement. What I love of this new series is that Hargrove does not try to push angst by mixing love betwee...more

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Jul 04, 2012 Alana ~ The Book Pimp rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, 2012-reading-challenge, arc, ebooks, series-urban-fantasy, to-review

Review to come with quotes...

But some quick notes first. I actually had NOT read the previous books in the series (I've been meaning to forever) but I heard that this could be read as a stand alone, so I jumped in. I had absolutely no difficulty following the story, and feeling like I knew the characters. I may have enjoyed it even more by reading the previous books, but I still thought it was a great read without them.

"I didn't sign-up for this!" Love that quote! Love, love, love it!

More to com...more

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Aug 09, 2012 Kimberly McFarland rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya

Determinant is the third book in The Guardians of Vesturon series. I haven't read the first two books, but I had no trouble following the storyline so I think this one could easily be read as a stand alone.

I had some trouble getting into this book because I thought it started off a little bit on the slow side, but about half way through is when things start to get very interesting. There were a lot of twists and turns that I didn't see coming!

I really enjoyed the romance aspect of this book. I t...more

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Nov 09, 2012 Simone rated it 4 of 5 stars

I received a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. January finds out on her graduation day that she was a product of rape, not only did her family not show up for the ceremony, she was thrown out of the house the very same day. I loved how the story started out as a drama and turned into a sci-fi novel. My only issue was that January didn’t come across as a strong female character that I’d have expected to develop because of the situation she was in. Other than that, I think it wa...more

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Jul 29, 2012 Terri ♥ (aka Mrs. Christian Grey) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-m-mentioned-or-beta

Quick review:

Cover: Fitting
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 4
Overall: Another fabulous installment with my favorite aliens
Characters: So good.
Plot: An interesting tale with a twist that made me smile and want more
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Rykerian (honestly Jurek, lol)

SUMMARY (50 words or less)

January has her day and well, even with her predicament, I want to be in her shoes. Not only Rykerian but then there is hunky Jurek. With a lot of things going on January...more

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Dec 30, 2012 Sitt rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book is the third installment of the Vesturon Guardian Saga. I read the first and the second installment and was totally mesmerized by a series of events. This one follows the life of January St. Davis and her relationship later on with one of the Yarrister Clan members of Vesturon, Rykerian. The book is divided in several partitions so you might get a glance of thoughts from each January and Rykerian. It is well organized to the end and has some funny parts as well. Anyone who knows the ot...more

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Determinant (The Guardians of Vesturon #3)

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Determinant (The Guardians of Vesturon #3)

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