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The Alpha God #8
Running Up That Mountain, Part 1: An F/F Omegaverse Sci-Fi Romance
Omnis is Kander’s new neighbor.
With the Sworne now at their backdoor, Charlie and Kal face a larger threat than they thought before. Omnis-sar demands Kal to kneel and welcome her to Kander or be devoured. However, Kal will never bend a knee to any being, especially to a corrupt god. War is imminent. The Sworne’s invasion is Charlie’s childhood nightmare repeating itself. But this time, Charlie will protect her loved ones — especially her true mate. She soon learns that Kander holds powerful secrets that may help them defeat the Sworne, or destroy everyone. Charlie and Kal only need to put the pieces together and stay a step ahead of the Sworne. Kander’s fate will demand blood, death, and sacrifices!
* * *
Running Up That Mountain, Part 1 is Book 8 in The Alpha God series. It includes F/F Omegaverse*, Sci-fi Romance, Erotic Romance, G!P*, and a cliffhanger.
110,000
*See the author's blog for more details about Omegaverse and related terms.
With the Sworne now at their backdoor, Charlie and Kal face a larger threat than they thought before. Omnis-sar demands Kal to kneel and welcome her to Kander or be devoured. However, Kal will never bend a knee to any being, especially to a corrupt god. War is imminent. The Sworne’s invasion is Charlie’s childhood nightmare repeating itself. But this time, Charlie will protect her loved ones — especially her true mate. She soon learns that Kander holds powerful secrets that may help them defeat the Sworne, or destroy everyone. Charlie and Kal only need to put the pieces together and stay a step ahead of the Sworne. Kander’s fate will demand blood, death, and sacrifices!
* * *
Running Up That Mountain, Part 1 is Book 8 in The Alpha God series. It includes F/F Omegaverse*, Sci-fi Romance, Erotic Romance, G!P*, and a cliffhanger.
110,000
*See the author's blog for more details about Omegaverse and related terms.
391 pages, Paperback
Published August 8, 2023
17 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
Lexa Luthor
30 books468 followersLexa Luthor is an avid writer and reader of the Omegaverse trope especially including F/F pairing. In her books, each main character(s) is a strong-willed female, who navigates difficult situations but always ends up finding love with their mate. Every tale has a twist and is gripping, sexy, and even a bit adventurous.
When not writing, Lexa enjoys binge watching television shows like Game of Thrones, Gentleman Jack, or The L Word. Her other favorite hobbies are playing cornhole, rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs, and laying around the pool in the summer. At times, Lexa finds time to read romances (both dark and fluffy) and great sci-fi books but nothing else can beat a steamy, downright erotic F/F romance with biting, knotting, and slightly possessive love.
To learn more about Lexa, please visit her website and be sure to join her newsletter!
When not writing, Lexa enjoys binge watching television shows like Game of Thrones, Gentleman Jack, or The L Word. Her other favorite hobbies are playing cornhole, rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs, and laying around the pool in the summer. At times, Lexa finds time to read romances (both dark and fluffy) and great sci-fi books but nothing else can beat a steamy, downright erotic F/F romance with biting, knotting, and slightly possessive love.
To learn more about Lexa, please visit her website and be sure to join her newsletter!
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
August 31, 2023
Every time we are closer to the end of this incredible series, in this penultimate instance we have a book with a lot of action and an ever stronger friendship.
I can’t wait to read the ending!
I have a new favorite character and his name is Kaden.
I can’t wait to read the ending!
I have a new favorite character and his name is Kaden.
September 3, 2023
Another brilliant addition to the Alpha Gods series, though I had no doubts. I cannot wait for part 2!!
September 10, 2023
I really thought I would be done with Kal and Charlie and the Zodiac pack by now, but no. This was a great book again and I can’t wait for book 8 part 2.
September 10, 2023
All right now baby, it's all right now is it though?
Eight books and one would think there would've been a let down at some point. But NO. Every single book from this series is a top notch, exhilarating and steamy read. There's so much that I'd like to talk about, but I cannot. I really need an alpha god buddy reader to talk about the small spoily things hihihi.
Anyway, at the same time that there's a plateau about the war and we get to see what it takes for Kander to hold together against the enemy throughout months, there's development and things we don't properly know, but gets hints about them. There's disappointments, loss and as sad as it can be as long as it isn't Dorlon (or the pack) dying, we are cool, Lexa lmao. Anyway, we are getting close to the end and if one thinks the plot cannot get thicker, one would be wrong. I'm really curious about that thing Charlie and Kae discovered, I've got my guess about it, but one can never tell.
Oh and I love how Charlie more and more takes a part beside Kal in the decision making and is respectfully heard by all, balancing things out. And the pack, they are just the best! Often in books with lots of side characters, I enjoy them, but could live without having the friends of MC being part of scenes, sometimes I even skip pages, but the pack? No, I rejoice every time they are on. They are a funny, interesting lot.
p.s.: Kalatas is a reasonable god (I'd probably think about following a god if they were anything like this).
Eight books and one would think there would've been a let down at some point. But NO. Every single book from this series is a top notch, exhilarating and steamy read. There's so much that I'd like to talk about, but I cannot. I really need an alpha god buddy reader to talk about the small spoily things hihihi.
Anyway, at the same time that there's a plateau about the war and we get to see what it takes for Kander to hold together against the enemy throughout months, there's development and things we don't properly know, but gets hints about them. There's disappointments, loss and as sad as it can be as long as it isn't Dorlon (or the pack) dying, we are cool, Lexa lmao. Anyway, we are getting close to the end and if one thinks the plot cannot get thicker, one would be wrong. I'm really curious about that thing Charlie and Kae discovered, I've got my guess about it, but one can never tell.
Oh and I love how Charlie more and more takes a part beside Kal in the decision making and is respectfully heard by all, balancing things out. And the pack, they are just the best! Often in books with lots of side characters, I enjoy them, but could live without having the friends of MC being part of scenes, sometimes I even skip pages, but the pack? No, I rejoice every time they are on. They are a funny, interesting lot.
p.s.: Kalatas is a reasonable god (I'd probably think about following a god if they were anything like this).
September 12, 2023
I’m absolutely in awe of Lexa Luthor and her brilliant world-building. Like so many others, I have been eagerly awaiting the release of Running Up That Mountain and feel like these characters are so much more than just words in a book.
I would never call myself a fan of science fiction but find myself drawn to these stories because they are intensely character-driven, something I have always been drawn to when choosing a book to read.
Book 8 carries on after Omnis-sar turns up and positions herself right beside Kandar with the intent of taking over the planet. Clearly, Kal, Charlie, and the rest of the pack have no intention of letting that happen. So begins the war, where the Sworne land and fighting begins. The pack is on a mission to find Vaal-da, and Kaden plays a more intrinsic role in helping understand the inner going-ons of Kander.
Like each book, Kal and Charlie’s relationship is front and centre of the plot, and watching them grow as a couple is one of the really special things about the series. This is where all the hot scenes take place, and Lexa Luthor manages to keep them original and fresh even this far into it. Kal’s pack is another high point of the story.
Each character has their own unique backstory, bringing their own strengths to the group. It’s hard not to feel an attachment to them all. And then there is the suspenseful action that takes place, keeping the story moving along at a fast pace, so the reader barely gets a chance to catch their breath. It’s perfect!
I would never call myself a fan of science fiction but find myself drawn to these stories because they are intensely character-driven, something I have always been drawn to when choosing a book to read.
Book 8 carries on after Omnis-sar turns up and positions herself right beside Kandar with the intent of taking over the planet. Clearly, Kal, Charlie, and the rest of the pack have no intention of letting that happen. So begins the war, where the Sworne land and fighting begins. The pack is on a mission to find Vaal-da, and Kaden plays a more intrinsic role in helping understand the inner going-ons of Kander.
Like each book, Kal and Charlie’s relationship is front and centre of the plot, and watching them grow as a couple is one of the really special things about the series. This is where all the hot scenes take place, and Lexa Luthor manages to keep them original and fresh even this far into it. Kal’s pack is another high point of the story.
Each character has their own unique backstory, bringing their own strengths to the group. It’s hard not to feel an attachment to them all. And then there is the suspenseful action that takes place, keeping the story moving along at a fast pace, so the reader barely gets a chance to catch their breath. It’s perfect!
August 13, 2023
I really enjoyed Part 1. Omnis, the Devourer of Many, and the Sworn have arrived as Kandar’s neighbor. Kal, Charlie, the pack, and their people have prepared for this day. Are their preparations enough for the addition of a new planet and their god, not just the army they expected? Charlie has fully stepped into her role as Kal’s true mate and has learned and accepted the ability to wield the power of Kalatas alongside Kal. With all the power and knowledge of Kalatas, Kal still learns there is missing knowledge regarding Kandar. As Charlie and Kaden unearth pieces of the past to try to help them find a way to defeat Omnis, new truths and, perhaps, a forgotten power within their home are discovered. Don’t miss the first half of what looks to be an epic conclusion. Can’t wait to see how part 2 unfolds.
August 9, 2025
I’ve never been so excited, torn, happy, hurt, and fascinated all at once.
CHARACTER IMPRESSIONS:
Charlie and Kal
Charlie is one of the most badass lead characters I’ve ever read. I love how she can be a smug little shit but also sweet and caring in the same breath. Despite what’s happening, Charlie still finds time to celebrate Kal’s birthday in what little ways she can, and now I need to know what Kal’s birthday wish is.
I adore how Kal is always checking in on Charlie to make sure she’s alright. With Kal having such a giving personality, Charlie balances her out because Charlie’s mild selfishness reminds Kal that it’s okay to have what she wants sometimes. Somehow, they always find time to get into each other’s pants and I’m not even mad, because despite the sworne conflict, they make time to connect with one another, whether it’s because they’re just horny or because they need to be with each other on a more intimate level.
I’m seeing a lot of hints and foreshadowing about them having a baby and getting married once the war is dealt with, so I hope it actually does happen by the end of the series, because these two deserve everything after all they’ve been through.
MINOR CHARACTERS:
I can’t get enough of the Zodiac Pack’s ride or die attitude. The way Charlie and Kal’s friends are ready to head into battle with them without hesitation is so endearing to see. Starr is an awesome addition to the team, providing strength like Charlie, while Raine and Talyn provide knowledge, and Andren and Kaden always giving their devotion to the group.
I’m so happy to see so many couples that are breathtaking together, but also remarkable as individuals. Charlie and Kal’s unbreakable relationship will always be a highlight in the series, Raine and Andren are just starting their romance but they’re already committed to one another. There’s even a hint of Tas and Talyn growing closer. And of course, I’m ecstatic about the possibility of Dorlon and Laken maybe starting something. I love how everyone is finding or strengthening their relationships, whether platonic or romantic, and all at their own pace. I am eating all of this up and enjoying every bit of it.
I loved seeing more of Dorlon again. She isn’t ever shown in combat, but when she’s shown being a commander, planning military strategies, or giving advice to her friends, she’s such a badass in her own right. The way other characters talk about her show how great of a friend or mentor she is. I can’t get over how much more of Laken is finally in the story. I also can’t get over how she just happens to sit next to Dorlon whenever the group is together. Am I allowed to ship them now?
STORY IMPRESSIONS:
There are so many new revelations and secrets coming to light. The way the author sprinkles information and unanswered questions about the omega god, Omnis-sar, or things that seem like coincidence at first has me eager to see how everything is going to come full circle.
The Kalmar’s best traits are highlighted in this story. They have good and bad things like any culture, but their drive to protect each other, remain honorable, and fight as one people are at the forefront in this story.
Don’t skip out on the free short stories from Kal’s POV found on the author’s website, otherwise it’s going to feel like you missed out on important events.
I only have one gripe about the story, which occurs throughout the entire series, but I get what the author’s doing with it, however, I personally don’t like references to real life when I’m reading, whether it’s contemporary, sci-fi, fantasy, or f/f omegaverse. I want to be immersed in Kander and its characters—which is very immersive on its own because the worldbuilding is awesome—but when references are thrown in like the Avengers or Tony Stark, it throws me out of the story. I want to be thinking of Kander, Charlie, Kal, and the Zodiac Pack, not be reminded of a Marvel movie. That’s just me though.
I still enjoyed everything about this story and series. Despite the war, there are “quiet” moments in which the characters are simply having dinner or chatting around a campfire. It’s so wholesome seeing a group of people, from various backgrounds and species, having each lost something in their past, come together as a family. I hope everyone comes out the other side of this war alive. I don’t care if that’s not probable. I need everyone to survive because they each still have something personal to accomplish after the war.
HIGHLIGHTS:
* Highlight 1: The way Raine said, “She’s all grown up,” in reference to the Betty May made me wheeze, plus the entire exchange with Andren immediately afterwards.
* Highlight 2: The way Kal stated she’s going to eliminate Omnis-sar.
* Highlight 3: “Welcome to Kander, motherfuckers!”
* Highlight 4: That scene on Page 207 made me emotional, but it’s probably for the best since they’re in the middle of a war. Hopefully they can remedy this once the sworne are gone.
* Highlight 5: Charlie doing the best impression of Kal back when they barely knew each other.
* Highlight 6: Dorlon and Laken finally doing something together other than breathe in the same room. Their conversation about swimming had me rooting for something to come out of this.
* Highlight 7: “You know, Raine agrees with me that Laken has a thing for Dorlon.”
* Highlight 8: Raine referring to Andren as her mate.
* Highlight 9: Raine getting a badass moment to shine using the Galactic Hammer.
* Highlight 10: Raine and Starr reminding Kal to tell Omnis-sar to go fuck herself.
PERSONAL TAGS:
* 3rd person, Charlie’s POV
* Cliffhanger ending
* Competent protagonists
* F/f omegaverse
* Fated mates
* Found family
* G!p
* Human female / she-alpha
* Mercenary / high commander
* Narrative cohesion
* Sci-fi (with a bit of fantasy)
* Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️🌶️ (left me drenched)
CHARACTER IMPRESSIONS:
Charlie and Kal
Charlie is one of the most badass lead characters I’ve ever read. I love how she can be a smug little shit but also sweet and caring in the same breath. Despite what’s happening, Charlie still finds time to celebrate Kal’s birthday in what little ways she can, and now I need to know what Kal’s birthday wish is.
I adore how Kal is always checking in on Charlie to make sure she’s alright. With Kal having such a giving personality, Charlie balances her out because Charlie’s mild selfishness reminds Kal that it’s okay to have what she wants sometimes. Somehow, they always find time to get into each other’s pants and I’m not even mad, because despite the sworne conflict, they make time to connect with one another, whether it’s because they’re just horny or because they need to be with each other on a more intimate level.
I’m seeing a lot of hints and foreshadowing about them having a baby and getting married once the war is dealt with, so I hope it actually does happen by the end of the series, because these two deserve everything after all they’ve been through.
MINOR CHARACTERS:
I can’t get enough of the Zodiac Pack’s ride or die attitude. The way Charlie and Kal’s friends are ready to head into battle with them without hesitation is so endearing to see. Starr is an awesome addition to the team, providing strength like Charlie, while Raine and Talyn provide knowledge, and Andren and Kaden always giving their devotion to the group.
I’m so happy to see so many couples that are breathtaking together, but also remarkable as individuals. Charlie and Kal’s unbreakable relationship will always be a highlight in the series, Raine and Andren are just starting their romance but they’re already committed to one another. There’s even a hint of Tas and Talyn growing closer. And of course, I’m ecstatic about the possibility of Dorlon and Laken maybe starting something. I love how everyone is finding or strengthening their relationships, whether platonic or romantic, and all at their own pace. I am eating all of this up and enjoying every bit of it.
I loved seeing more of Dorlon again. She isn’t ever shown in combat, but when she’s shown being a commander, planning military strategies, or giving advice to her friends, she’s such a badass in her own right. The way other characters talk about her show how great of a friend or mentor she is. I can’t get over how much more of Laken is finally in the story. I also can’t get over how she just happens to sit next to Dorlon whenever the group is together. Am I allowed to ship them now?
STORY IMPRESSIONS:
There are so many new revelations and secrets coming to light. The way the author sprinkles information and unanswered questions about the omega god, Omnis-sar, or things that seem like coincidence at first has me eager to see how everything is going to come full circle.
The Kalmar’s best traits are highlighted in this story. They have good and bad things like any culture, but their drive to protect each other, remain honorable, and fight as one people are at the forefront in this story.
Don’t skip out on the free short stories from Kal’s POV found on the author’s website, otherwise it’s going to feel like you missed out on important events.
I only have one gripe about the story, which occurs throughout the entire series, but I get what the author’s doing with it, however, I personally don’t like references to real life when I’m reading, whether it’s contemporary, sci-fi, fantasy, or f/f omegaverse. I want to be immersed in Kander and its characters—which is very immersive on its own because the worldbuilding is awesome—but when references are thrown in like the Avengers or Tony Stark, it throws me out of the story. I want to be thinking of Kander, Charlie, Kal, and the Zodiac Pack, not be reminded of a Marvel movie. That’s just me though.
I still enjoyed everything about this story and series. Despite the war, there are “quiet” moments in which the characters are simply having dinner or chatting around a campfire. It’s so wholesome seeing a group of people, from various backgrounds and species, having each lost something in their past, come together as a family. I hope everyone comes out the other side of this war alive. I don’t care if that’s not probable. I need everyone to survive because they each still have something personal to accomplish after the war.
HIGHLIGHTS:
* Highlight 1: The way Raine said, “She’s all grown up,” in reference to the Betty May made me wheeze, plus the entire exchange with Andren immediately afterwards.
* Highlight 2: The way Kal stated she’s going to eliminate Omnis-sar.
* Highlight 3: “Welcome to Kander, motherfuckers!”
* Highlight 4: That scene on Page 207 made me emotional, but it’s probably for the best since they’re in the middle of a war. Hopefully they can remedy this once the sworne are gone.
* Highlight 5: Charlie doing the best impression of Kal back when they barely knew each other.
* Highlight 6: Dorlon and Laken finally doing something together other than breathe in the same room. Their conversation about swimming had me rooting for something to come out of this.
* Highlight 7: “You know, Raine agrees with me that Laken has a thing for Dorlon.”
* Highlight 8: Raine referring to Andren as her mate.
* Highlight 9: Raine getting a badass moment to shine using the Galactic Hammer.
* Highlight 10: Raine and Starr reminding Kal to tell Omnis-sar to go fuck herself.
PERSONAL TAGS:
* 3rd person, Charlie’s POV
* Cliffhanger ending
* Competent protagonists
* F/f omegaverse
* Fated mates
* Found family
* G!p
* Human female / she-alpha
* Mercenary / high commander
* Narrative cohesion
* Sci-fi (with a bit of fantasy)
* Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️🌶️ (left me drenched)
August 29, 2023
The great war is here!
Omnis-sar focuses all his energy on Kander and wants to conquer Kal and the planet.
As patient readers, we have been waiting for this for a long time and only hope that our beloved pack survives everything safely ... well, we have to wait a little longer ;)) They plan strategies and mobilize everything they have to stop the superior attacker. It's sooooo exciting.. will they succeed?
This is a very bad time for this attack because our dearest soulmates really only want to mate, because Kal is in a rut and they both want a baby!
But they wouldn't be Kal and Charlie if there wasn't always time for that :)
It is the most important thing in the whole world, although this world is in danger.
They will do anything to protect each other and their deep love for one another.
After a long period of anticipation, and I always have that with this series, it's always satisfying to read the next book
I'm not sad that I have to wait again.
I'm excited to be able to relive that sense of anticipation with these favorite characters one more time!
Needless to say, it is of course full of loving and extremely hot moments.
The love for one's own and the chosen family (pack) is wonderfully the focus and I wish that everyone gets through it well! please 🥺
Omnis-sar focuses all his energy on Kander and wants to conquer Kal and the planet.
As patient readers, we have been waiting for this for a long time and only hope that our beloved pack survives everything safely ... well, we have to wait a little longer ;)) They plan strategies and mobilize everything they have to stop the superior attacker. It's sooooo exciting.. will they succeed?
This is a very bad time for this attack because our dearest soulmates really only want to mate, because Kal is in a rut and they both want a baby!
But they wouldn't be Kal and Charlie if there wasn't always time for that :)
It is the most important thing in the whole world, although this world is in danger.
They will do anything to protect each other and their deep love for one another.
After a long period of anticipation, and I always have that with this series, it's always satisfying to read the next book
I'm not sad that I have to wait again.
I'm excited to be able to relive that sense of anticipation with these favorite characters one more time!
Needless to say, it is of course full of loving and extremely hot moments.
The love for one's own and the chosen family (pack) is wonderfully the focus and I wish that everyone gets through it well! please 🥺
June 21, 2025
OH MY GOD WHERE DO I START?
Kal's birthday celebration is so sweet, and I died laughing at everyone's hesitancy to try chocolate cake. The moments with the whole pack are some of my favorites in the whole series. everyone has come so far! I love each of these goobers and if anything happens to any of them I will riot!!
also Charlie was so fucking cool during the opening of the war! the scene where she and Kal take out the 3 big Sworne ships is so fucking cool and I'm definitely gonna use it for inspiration for writing my own action scenes in the future.
Raine and Andren are together! I love it! also I so hope Dorlon and Laken get together. they would be so cute. (and Dorlon needs some company after what happened to Akron)
maybe this is just me, but I kinda ship Talyn and Tas. like everyone else is getting a mate.. and they have good chemistry I think. not sure if priests can have mates but...
I cried so hard with Charlie's failed attempt to have a pup. fuck this war I hope they wipe the Sworne out!
ALSO ALSO! this book confirms that Kingdoms of Gyldren takes place in the same extended universe! meaning my crossover fics can be grounded! let's fucking goooo!
Kal's birthday celebration is so sweet, and I died laughing at everyone's hesitancy to try chocolate cake. The moments with the whole pack are some of my favorites in the whole series. everyone has come so far! I love each of these goobers and if anything happens to any of them I will riot!!
also Charlie was so fucking cool during the opening of the war! the scene where she and Kal take out the 3 big Sworne ships is so fucking cool and I'm definitely gonna use it for inspiration for writing my own action scenes in the future.
Raine and Andren are together! I love it! also I so hope Dorlon and Laken get together. they would be so cute. (and Dorlon needs some company after what happened to Akron)
maybe this is just me, but I kinda ship Talyn and Tas. like everyone else is getting a mate.. and they have good chemistry I think. not sure if priests can have mates but...
I cried so hard with Charlie's failed attempt to have a pup. fuck this war I hope they wipe the Sworne out!
ALSO ALSO! this book confirms that Kingdoms of Gyldren takes place in the same extended universe! meaning my crossover fics can be grounded! let's fucking goooo!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2023
Loved this great space battles so hot scenes between kal and Charlie love how much love there is between all members of the pack, I laughed a lot with all the marvel and dc references I hope the wait for part two is not too long
November 28, 2024
Blown Away..
Lexa, She's hit another one out of the park. I've come to know and love each character from book 1 to book 8. I'm spellbound with the story .Everyone needs a Kal and Charlie in their lives.
Lexa, She's hit another one out of the park. I've come to know and love each character from book 1 to book 8. I'm spellbound with the story .Everyone needs a Kal and Charlie in their lives.
September 17, 2023
Another fantastic book in this epic story…can’t wait for part 2
June 9, 2025
So far, I actually think that #4 ("Collecting Stars") and #5 ("Like a Calling") in the series is still the best in the Alpha God universe, but I liked how this really reaches out and explores more of the world that Kal and Charlie navigate together for peace.
Now they have to deal with Omnis-Sar, both female and a god-like spirit that has grown out of control and in lust for power.
Now they have to deal with Omnis-Sar, both female and a god-like spirit that has grown out of control and in lust for power.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews