ASH PLANET WARRIORS was the introduction to this wonderful series and to the very young couple, Zerim and Lia, who are featured in this book, BOUND TO THE WARLORD BOOK THREE. Born the son of a Vetusian Warden of the Empire and a captured Jal'zar shimid (shaman) after Solgad had been conquered and occupied, Zerim is a hybid, though he has been called many things. None of them good. Being born without a tale claw means that he can never claim a mate or father children. Born as a male Shimid is rare, but without the tailclaw, too, he is a considered a freak. He struggles to find his place. But when Zerim saves Lia, in the intro, she makes him feel more than just a filthy half breed. She makes him feel strong, capable, better. For Lia, "this shaman has stolen her heart and imprisoned her soul".
The incredible introduction left all of the V.K. Ludwig fans with a cliffhanger, while she diabolically tortured us by writing books 1 and 2. And those were both amazing stories, as well, but we still waited anxiously for what was happening with Zerim and Lia. FINALLY, the rest of their story is here! I strongly recommend that you read the introduction first, if you have not. You don't want to miss out on any part of this romance!
Five solar cycles have passed now and these two wonderful characters have grown and matured but neither have been able to forget their first kiss, their first sexual experience, their first love. In this second chance romance the two are brought together again. But hurt, anger, betrayal and duty may yet keep them apart.
There are so many things I love about this book and, really, all of the series.
First, the characters are so intense and wonderfully developed, even those you may not like very much. The epitome of a fabulous story-teller, V. K. Ludwig has such a way of bringing out their absolute best and their very worst. Don't be surprised if the very ones you hate turn out to be the ones you later love, in spite of their flaws.
Next, when it comes to world building, this author paints such a realistic picture with her words and descriptions, you feel you are there. [I could practically taste the salt.]
And lastly, the writing is so professionally delivered; it is effortless art for this author. When she is funny, she is hysterical. When she gives us drama, it is gritty, raw and leaves you full of emotions. And the hot, steamy sex scenes won't disappoint either.
There is still one book to come from this series. Thank you V.K. Ludwig for actually listening to your fans who have begged for Razgar's story. Maybe we do just like the "A" holes, or maybe it is just that we haven't had enough of the Ash Planet Warriors, yet. I WANT ONE!