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Bound
My punisher. My protector. Shere Khan.
For nearly ten years, Shere Khan the tiger has watched my every move, but I have never seen his face.
Legend says he is a man. A bounty hunter with a black heart and an evil soul—cursed to roam the jungle in desperate search of revenge for the family he lost. The family my father took from him.
When he finally comes for me, will I be able to resist? Or am I bound to be his? Body and soul. Khan’s to corrupt.
‘Bound’ is a full-length romance novel where the villain gets the girl. It is part one in 'The Jungle's Queen' trilogy, which was inspired by ‘The Jungle Book’. For full CWs, tropes, and notes see the author’s website.
For nearly ten years, Shere Khan the tiger has watched my every move, but I have never seen his face.
Legend says he is a man. A bounty hunter with a black heart and an evil soul—cursed to roam the jungle in desperate search of revenge for the family he lost. The family my father took from him.
When he finally comes for me, will I be able to resist? Or am I bound to be his? Body and soul. Khan’s to corrupt.
‘Bound’ is a full-length romance novel where the villain gets the girl. It is part one in 'The Jungle's Queen' trilogy, which was inspired by ‘The Jungle Book’. For full CWs, tropes, and notes see the author’s website.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 1, 2023
Woefully disappointed
I was so excited for this book that I created a calendar event for its release. I don’t even know where to begin. I was debating even writing a review because I have nothing good to say. I don’t know why the author thought it was a good idea to retell the same chapter from two different character’s POVs but let me tell you… it was not a good idea. I was thinking “if this is how the whole book is going to be, I can’t do this.” When I say retell, I literally mean the same exact thing is happening. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad if it was action but to continuously read the same dialogue from the king’s shitty rapist right hand man multiple times was 🤮 honestly that character was giving Jafar from Aladdin vibes but lord someone just kill him. And I get it’s an enemies to lovers trope but not really bc the fl has no idea that Khan wants to kill her. When he thinks to himself “I’m a hunter, not a monster” (or something like that) I was thinking “Well… to avenge your family you want to kill the innocent daughter of the king who’s actually responsible and also alive soooo yeah you are a bit of a monster my guy.” Sadly the spice is SEVERELY lacking. The end scene is so underwhelming, I thought when the author mentioned Khan’s piercings things were going to be good but no, not at all. All of sudden she’s his everything and his light and his breath… blah, blah, blah. The story doesn’t even develop properly for his feelings to be so extreme. When Khan spoke to his ancestors I really thought they were going to be positive and say something like “Don’t live your life fueled by revenge, we want you to thrive and live a life of happiness because you’re our ONLY LIVING KIN.” Instead they were like “Nah son, kill her or we’re killing you.” Funny enough after hearing that news Khan immediately takes Gliana’s v card 💀 there’s so much more I could go on about like the bear and wolf but in the end I don’t recommend this book and won’t be reading the second part.
Actually the only good thing was the horse. That poor thing CARRIED this book and the characters. Without her all the characters would be lost in the jungle or dead.
I was so excited for this book that I created a calendar event for its release. I don’t even know where to begin. I was debating even writing a review because I have nothing good to say. I don’t know why the author thought it was a good idea to retell the same chapter from two different character’s POVs but let me tell you… it was not a good idea. I was thinking “if this is how the whole book is going to be, I can’t do this.” When I say retell, I literally mean the same exact thing is happening. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad if it was action but to continuously read the same dialogue from the king’s shitty rapist right hand man multiple times was 🤮 honestly that character was giving Jafar from Aladdin vibes but lord someone just kill him. And I get it’s an enemies to lovers trope but not really bc the fl has no idea that Khan wants to kill her. When he thinks to himself “I’m a hunter, not a monster” (or something like that) I was thinking “Well… to avenge your family you want to kill the innocent daughter of the king who’s actually responsible and also alive soooo yeah you are a bit of a monster my guy.” Sadly the spice is SEVERELY lacking. The end scene is so underwhelming, I thought when the author mentioned Khan’s piercings things were going to be good but no, not at all. All of sudden she’s his everything and his light and his breath… blah, blah, blah. The story doesn’t even develop properly for his feelings to be so extreme. When Khan spoke to his ancestors I really thought they were going to be positive and say something like “Don’t live your life fueled by revenge, we want you to thrive and live a life of happiness because you’re our ONLY LIVING KIN.” Instead they were like “Nah son, kill her or we’re killing you.” Funny enough after hearing that news Khan immediately takes Gliana’s v card 💀 there’s so much more I could go on about like the bear and wolf but in the end I don’t recommend this book and won’t be reading the second part.
Actually the only good thing was the horse. That poor thing CARRIED this book and the characters. Without her all the characters would be lost in the jungle or dead.
May 31, 2023
I'm disappointed by so many things that I need some time to process it.
But this was a Catfish in quite a few ways for me. And I am more sad than mad about it.
Very low chance that I will even read the second part of this duet.
2.5 stars
1.5 on the spice scale
CW: attempted SA
But this was a Catfish in quite a few ways for me. And I am more sad than mad about it.
Very low chance that I will even read the second part of this duet.
2.5 stars
1.5 on the spice scale
CW: attempted SA
May 30, 2023
Oh. My. Goddess. Whatjusthappened. I’m OBSESSED.
Bound was much more intense than I had imagined and I cannot get enough of this story! Gliana is such a strong but also soft character. Even with the horrible things she has had to endure for her entire life, she still finds beauty in the world and strives to keep peace with those around her. She’s so intriguing and I cannot wait to watch her continue to grow in the second half of this duet!
The men! They are so different and well played. It was entirely too easy to fall head over heels for these characters. From the broken and gruff Khan, with a tragic backstory and ruthless nature. To the softhearted and adventurous Raksha who is endlessly loyal. And Barlo- the gentle giant whose devotion to his Ana’s safety is absolutely swoon worthy!
This reimagining of the Jungle Book has a dark and twisted side that pairs so very well with the dee emotional drive that the characters experience. I really cannot compliment the author enough and I’m patiently awaiting the next part of this story!
Bound was much more intense than I had imagined and I cannot get enough of this story! Gliana is such a strong but also soft character. Even with the horrible things she has had to endure for her entire life, she still finds beauty in the world and strives to keep peace with those around her. She’s so intriguing and I cannot wait to watch her continue to grow in the second half of this duet!
The men! They are so different and well played. It was entirely too easy to fall head over heels for these characters. From the broken and gruff Khan, with a tragic backstory and ruthless nature. To the softhearted and adventurous Raksha who is endlessly loyal. And Barlo- the gentle giant whose devotion to his Ana’s safety is absolutely swoon worthy!
This reimagining of the Jungle Book has a dark and twisted side that pairs so very well with the dee emotional drive that the characters experience. I really cannot compliment the author enough and I’m patiently awaiting the next part of this story!
June 1, 2023
Oh my… What a wonderful surprise when this email was received with the ARC of Bound in my email. It made my day! Thank you so much @caraclareauthor.
A Disney-retelling, well if you know me, you’ll know I’m a huge fan of retellings. The multiple POV gave the reader a brilliant insight into the book and characters. From page one I was absolutely gripped. I didn’t think 𝗔𝗡𝗬𝗢𝗡𝗘 could make the Jungle Book captivating, sexy with a little smut and still keep the attention of readers… it’s genius!
"𝕋𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕨𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕓𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕠𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕡𝕝𝕒𝕔𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕣𝕦𝕟𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕚𝕤 𝕟𝕠 𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕘𝕖𝕣 𝕒𝕟 𝕠𝕡𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟."
There are so many incredible points in this book. Shere Khan, dark and twisted but I’m kind of digging it! ❤️🔥🙊
And of course, it wouldn’t be @caraclareauthor style if she didn’t finish with a bang… oh yes, and a cliffhanger! I am absolutely stoked to read more and can’t wait for the next book in this absolutely fantastic duology.
Thanks @readingforthethrill for the buddy read. Sorry I couldn’t keep up with you 😂
A Disney-retelling, well if you know me, you’ll know I’m a huge fan of retellings. The multiple POV gave the reader a brilliant insight into the book and characters. From page one I was absolutely gripped. I didn’t think 𝗔𝗡𝗬𝗢𝗡𝗘 could make the Jungle Book captivating, sexy with a little smut and still keep the attention of readers… it’s genius!
"𝕋𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕨𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕓𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕠𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕡𝕝𝕒𝕔𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕣𝕦𝕟𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕚𝕤 𝕟𝕠 𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕘𝕖𝕣 𝕒𝕟 𝕠𝕡𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟."
There are so many incredible points in this book. Shere Khan, dark and twisted but I’m kind of digging it! ❤️🔥🙊
And of course, it wouldn’t be @caraclareauthor style if she didn’t finish with a bang… oh yes, and a cliffhanger! I am absolutely stoked to read more and can’t wait for the next book in this absolutely fantastic duology.
Thanks @readingforthethrill for the buddy read. Sorry I couldn’t keep up with you 😂
September 9, 2024
8/10
🌶️.5
A dark Romantasy reimagining of Jungle Book and throw in a love triangle! I was never the biggest Jungle Book fan, but I really enjoyed this! I loved all the characters and how they were portrayed.
🌶️.5
A dark Romantasy reimagining of Jungle Book and throw in a love triangle! I was never the biggest Jungle Book fan, but I really enjoyed this! I loved all the characters and how they were portrayed.
June 16, 2023
Really enjoyed this retelling of the jungle book but annoyed I have to wait until August for the 2nd book to come out.
Want to Read
March 28, 2023So basically a jungle book retelling with a tiger shifter for Shere Kahn. I am all for it!!!
June 6, 2023
Jungle Book retelling
🌶️
Cliff hanger ending, book 2 is out in July.
Plot was good, it had me wanting to finish and find out how it ended.
I loved all the characters and the author did a great job tying them together.
Something that annoyed me was the way the author wrote every other chapter as a different characters point of view of the same event. You feel like you’re reading the same chapter twice.
The only spice in the book isn’t until the ending (91% into it).
Basically, If you’re looking for a spicy book this isn’t for you… If you’re just wanting a nice Disney retelling then you’ll enjoy it.
🌶️
Cliff hanger ending, book 2 is out in July.
Plot was good, it had me wanting to finish and find out how it ended.
I loved all the characters and the author did a great job tying them together.
Something that annoyed me was the way the author wrote every other chapter as a different characters point of view of the same event. You feel like you’re reading the same chapter twice.
The only spice in the book isn’t until the ending (91% into it).
Basically, If you’re looking for a spicy book this isn’t for you… If you’re just wanting a nice Disney retelling then you’ll enjoy it.
May 28, 2023
4.5 stars!
Cara has done it again. I devoured Bound in nearly one sitting and cannot wait for Freed!
Bound is a dark retelling of The Jungle Book. We follow Shere Khan, a tiger shifter, last of his kind, on his journey for vengeance. His bounty to sate his quest for revenge? Gliana, the princess of Valoria, Queen-for-a-day of Calandria, and daughter of the king who slaughtered Khan’s family.
Gliana isn’t the easy prey Khan thought she’d be. No, she is a survivor and a fighter. She has a strength inside her that rivals his and throws him for a loop. She got under his skin the moment he put a face to his prey.
“𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈’𝐦 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐲 𝐜𝐚𝐭? 𝐍𝐨. 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐥, 𝐧𝐨.”
We meet The Bear immediately after Gliana’s wedding ceremony. He’s the Calandrian guard with the brightest blue eyes, and the only person to show Gliana kindness. He helps her escape with hope of finding her again. He is such an endearing character, especially after we learn how Gliana and he are connected. I may or may not have fist pumped when he had his own chapter… because that means he’ll be in her harem, and I. Am. Here. For. It!
During Gliana’s escape, she runs into Khan’s horse, Bagheera, who essentially saves her life. Bagheera brings Gliana to the secret wolf village where “Ana” meets Raksha. The story skips ahead, so while we don’t get to see the relationship build between Gliana and Raksha, we get to see how close they are now.
Khan finds Gliana once more, but this time he is successful in taking his bounty. The longer he’s around her, the more he struggles with his task to kill her and avenge his ancestors. The chemistry between these two is unreal. Despite how hard he tries, Gliana isn’t afraid of him - she wants him, wants to understand him. When he gives in? It’s an inferno.
“𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥. 𝐆𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐲𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐫. 𝐀𝐝𝐦𝐢𝐭 𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐭, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝.”
“𝑰𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
Bagheera seems to have an integral part to play in this duet. She shows up when the characters need her most. I can’t wait to find out what happens when she finds Khan again!
The only reason I didn’t give Bound a full 5 stars is because whatever is building between the Bear and Raksha seems forced. I didn’t feel the chemistry right away, and I wish it was a slower build up so it’s more believable. Raksha, who is in love with Gliana, and never once seemed to look at men, appreciates Bear’s figure and suddenly he’s ready to explore whatever they have as long as Ana is okay with it (when they find her, of course). It’s the same with Bear: he’s loved Gliana for a long time, but close proximity to Rak has him wanting more. I am all for these two getting together at some point. I can see it happening, and I freaking LOVE MM within the harem. However, I just want to feel the chemistry and build up. It moved too fast for me considering how little we get of them.
Cara has done it again. I devoured Bound in nearly one sitting and cannot wait for Freed!
Bound is a dark retelling of The Jungle Book. We follow Shere Khan, a tiger shifter, last of his kind, on his journey for vengeance. His bounty to sate his quest for revenge? Gliana, the princess of Valoria, Queen-for-a-day of Calandria, and daughter of the king who slaughtered Khan’s family.
Gliana isn’t the easy prey Khan thought she’d be. No, she is a survivor and a fighter. She has a strength inside her that rivals his and throws him for a loop. She got under his skin the moment he put a face to his prey.
“𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈’𝐦 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐲 𝐜𝐚𝐭? 𝐍𝐨. 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐥, 𝐧𝐨.”
We meet The Bear immediately after Gliana’s wedding ceremony. He’s the Calandrian guard with the brightest blue eyes, and the only person to show Gliana kindness. He helps her escape with hope of finding her again. He is such an endearing character, especially after we learn how Gliana and he are connected. I may or may not have fist pumped when he had his own chapter… because that means he’ll be in her harem, and I. Am. Here. For. It!
During Gliana’s escape, she runs into Khan’s horse, Bagheera, who essentially saves her life. Bagheera brings Gliana to the secret wolf village where “Ana” meets Raksha. The story skips ahead, so while we don’t get to see the relationship build between Gliana and Raksha, we get to see how close they are now.
Khan finds Gliana once more, but this time he is successful in taking his bounty. The longer he’s around her, the more he struggles with his task to kill her and avenge his ancestors. The chemistry between these two is unreal. Despite how hard he tries, Gliana isn’t afraid of him - she wants him, wants to understand him. When he gives in? It’s an inferno.
“𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥. 𝐆𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐲𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐫. 𝐀𝐝𝐦𝐢𝐭 𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐭, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝.”
“𝑰𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
Bagheera seems to have an integral part to play in this duet. She shows up when the characters need her most. I can’t wait to find out what happens when she finds Khan again!
The only reason I didn’t give Bound a full 5 stars is because whatever is building between the Bear and Raksha seems forced. I didn’t feel the chemistry right away, and I wish it was a slower build up so it’s more believable. Raksha, who is in love with Gliana, and never once seemed to look at men, appreciates Bear’s figure and suddenly he’s ready to explore whatever they have as long as Ana is okay with it (when they find her, of course). It’s the same with Bear: he’s loved Gliana for a long time, but close proximity to Rak has him wanting more. I am all for these two getting together at some point. I can see it happening, and I freaking LOVE MM within the harem. However, I just want to feel the chemistry and build up. It moved too fast for me considering how little we get of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2023
𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒔 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆. 𝑴𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒔𝒔. 𝑴𝒚 𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒆𝒏. 𝑴𝒚 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥
Relationship: Why choose?, MMWM (still establishing), MW
Tropes/content: Jungle Book retelling, enemies to lovers, childhood friends, shifter/human, virgin main character, slow burn, princess/bodyguard, sort of a dark romance (I wouldn't classify it that way, but I could see how some might)
Series: Corrupted Classics #1
⚠️Check triggers⚠️
For all of Gliana's life, she has lived under her father's tyrannical rule, never allowed to leave the castle. When she turns eighteen, she finds out she is being sent to a neighboring city to marry their leader and join the two cities together. On her wedding night, Gliana's life changes when a guard, Bear, helps her escape. She flees through the jungle and is found by Raksha, a wolf, and his pack. Gliana begins to build a life with the pack and starts to feel safe. That all changes when Shere Khan, bounty hunter and tiger shifter, comes looking for Gliana to seek vengeance for the things her father did to his family. Shere Khan was prepared to end Gliana's life, but spending time with her makes him second guess if revenge is what he wants.
This book intrigued me because I've never read a Jungle Book retelling. The story is interesting and has potential to be great. Cara did a good job of world building, introducing the characters, and starting to develop their relationships. I like that this is a why choose romance and could already feel Gliana's connections with her men. I am worried this is only a duology because I think there's a lot that needs to be explored. I'm hoping part two is able to properly explore this story.
While I did like this book, there were some issues. In the beginning, there were several chapters that were essentially the same but told from a different pov. If new information was shared, it would've been fine, but they were truly the same. Some of the plot points were dropped, which was confusing because they played a significant role in the beginning of the story. Additionally, the pacing was off and a bit jarring. There were time jumps that didn't make sense. The ending was okay. It did feel rushed. I think this story could've benefited from being a bit longer to allow for more development of the story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥
Relationship: Why choose?, MMWM (still establishing), MW
Tropes/content: Jungle Book retelling, enemies to lovers, childhood friends, shifter/human, virgin main character, slow burn, princess/bodyguard, sort of a dark romance (I wouldn't classify it that way, but I could see how some might)
Series: Corrupted Classics #1
⚠️Check triggers⚠️
For all of Gliana's life, she has lived under her father's tyrannical rule, never allowed to leave the castle. When she turns eighteen, she finds out she is being sent to a neighboring city to marry their leader and join the two cities together. On her wedding night, Gliana's life changes when a guard, Bear, helps her escape. She flees through the jungle and is found by Raksha, a wolf, and his pack. Gliana begins to build a life with the pack and starts to feel safe. That all changes when Shere Khan, bounty hunter and tiger shifter, comes looking for Gliana to seek vengeance for the things her father did to his family. Shere Khan was prepared to end Gliana's life, but spending time with her makes him second guess if revenge is what he wants.
This book intrigued me because I've never read a Jungle Book retelling. The story is interesting and has potential to be great. Cara did a good job of world building, introducing the characters, and starting to develop their relationships. I like that this is a why choose romance and could already feel Gliana's connections with her men. I am worried this is only a duology because I think there's a lot that needs to be explored. I'm hoping part two is able to properly explore this story.
While I did like this book, there were some issues. In the beginning, there were several chapters that were essentially the same but told from a different pov. If new information was shared, it would've been fine, but they were truly the same. Some of the plot points were dropped, which was confusing because they played a significant role in the beginning of the story. Additionally, the pacing was off and a bit jarring. There were time jumps that didn't make sense. The ending was okay. It did feel rushed. I think this story could've benefited from being a bit longer to allow for more development of the story.
June 5, 2023
I was so excited when I came across the author's TikTok promoting Bound back in February. I had never seen a Jungle Book retelling and instantly added it to my Pre-Order Tracker. I was so excited when it was finally released! So here's a run down of what I liked and didn't.
Loved:
- Finally having a Jungle Book retelling! I loved the idea of the villain getting the girl and making Shere Khan the lead.
- The unique ways the author added the characters from the original movie into her book. *SPOILER* (Bagheera being a horse, the wolf shifters, Baloo as an MC known as "The Bear")
- I also loved the growth you could see the FMC, Gliana, had during the book. She went from being reserved, afraid of taking chances to a warrior princess who embraced the jungle.
What I Didn't Like:
(This is my opinion and reflects things that I personally did not enjoy during the reading experience, you may totally like it and that's completely fine)
*SPOILERS*
- The changing timelines. The book would go from the present, to 10 years ago, to a year forward, back a few years, etc. I think it would have been more cohesive to have started in the past and built forward.
- Khan's convo with the ancestors and how the last scene played out. It was very anti-climatic
- With the book being promoted as a Jungle Book retelling, I expected it to feel more like it took place in India and have cities and names that reflected that.
- When I first found the book (back in February) there was no mention on Amazon or on the TikToks that it was a duology so I went in blind thinking it would wrap up nicely and didn't (totally on me but was still bummed).
Loved:
- Finally having a Jungle Book retelling! I loved the idea of the villain getting the girl and making Shere Khan the lead.
- The unique ways the author added the characters from the original movie into her book. *SPOILER* (Bagheera being a horse, the wolf shifters, Baloo as an MC known as "The Bear")
- I also loved the growth you could see the FMC, Gliana, had during the book. She went from being reserved, afraid of taking chances to a warrior princess who embraced the jungle.
What I Didn't Like:
(This is my opinion and reflects things that I personally did not enjoy during the reading experience, you may totally like it and that's completely fine)
*SPOILERS*
- The changing timelines. The book would go from the present, to 10 years ago, to a year forward, back a few years, etc. I think it would have been more cohesive to have started in the past and built forward.
- Khan's convo with the ancestors and how the last scene played out. It was very anti-climatic
- With the book being promoted as a Jungle Book retelling, I expected it to feel more like it took place in India and have cities and names that reflected that.
- When I first found the book (back in February) there was no mention on Amazon or on the TikToks that it was a duology so I went in blind thinking it would wrap up nicely and didn't (totally on me but was still bummed).
June 9, 2023
Why choose jungle book retelling with a gender bent Mogli and 3 hot men! 🥵🌴
This book is written with such stunning imagery. The world builds itself around you while you read and before you know it you’re trapped inside and you never want out. These characters are so steeped with backstory and tension that creates a very high stakes plot driven by desire and need. The jungle book references are all there and placed in a way that feels built into the plot rather than haphazardly thrown in for nostalgia sake.
👸🏼Gliana is “Mogli” and the reluctant princess who just wants to be in the jungle
🐯Shere Khan - morally gray tiger shifter bounty Hunter hell bent on finding gliana and avenging his families brutal murders
🐻BARLO/Blue - “The Bear” protective, bodyguard vibes. Childhood friend of Glianas who is back and determined to protect her now bc he couldn’t back then
🐺Raksha - wolf shifter who found Gliana in the jungle hurt and alone. He and his pack protected her and he and Gliana have a forbidden romance (everything BUT sex)
We get some hardcore ⚔️ vibes from 🐻and🐺 AND I am HERE FOR IT. PLEASE I’m begging. I need it.
Honorable mentions:
🐍Kaa is an absolute creep and someone you might find in an episode of dateline. I hope he suffers a great deal by the end of it
🐴bageera is a horse not a panther in this book. Still black and still silently protective of gliana while silently judging everyone’s actions and choices. So…Totally on brand 🤣
In case you weren’t sure tho by the above mentioned … READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!! It was spectacular
This book is written with such stunning imagery. The world builds itself around you while you read and before you know it you’re trapped inside and you never want out. These characters are so steeped with backstory and tension that creates a very high stakes plot driven by desire and need. The jungle book references are all there and placed in a way that feels built into the plot rather than haphazardly thrown in for nostalgia sake.
👸🏼Gliana is “Mogli” and the reluctant princess who just wants to be in the jungle
🐯Shere Khan - morally gray tiger shifter bounty Hunter hell bent on finding gliana and avenging his families brutal murders
🐻BARLO/Blue - “The Bear” protective, bodyguard vibes. Childhood friend of Glianas who is back and determined to protect her now bc he couldn’t back then
🐺Raksha - wolf shifter who found Gliana in the jungle hurt and alone. He and his pack protected her and he and Gliana have a forbidden romance (everything BUT sex)
We get some hardcore ⚔️ vibes from 🐻and🐺 AND I am HERE FOR IT. PLEASE I’m begging. I need it.
Honorable mentions:
🐍Kaa is an absolute creep and someone you might find in an episode of dateline. I hope he suffers a great deal by the end of it
🐴bageera is a horse not a panther in this book. Still black and still silently protective of gliana while silently judging everyone’s actions and choices. So…Totally on brand 🤣
In case you weren’t sure tho by the above mentioned … READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!! It was spectacular
May 30, 2023
🦹♂️ Villain gets the girl
🏰 Disney re-telling / based on The Jungle Book
🌶️ Spice
🖤 Dark fairy tale
🚻 Multiple POV
❓ Why choose ?
I LOVED THIS.
If you follow my Bookstagram account, you will know I’m a massive Disney fan. I adore a Disney re-telling / re-imagining - ESPECIALLY when it gets a little dark, a little spicy and the villain gets the girl. That’s my cup of tea right there.
So I am all for this book! Bound is based on The Jungle Book. I really wasn’t sure how the story was going to play out to begin with but I AM OBSESSED.
It had such an exciting plot, and I absolutely adored the setting. It almost felt like the jungle was a secondary character. It was so cleverly written, incorporating the story of the Jungle Book but making it something completely new, and intoxicating. It had me in a chokehold!
The characters as well! I loved that there was multiple POV. Bound is setting up nicely for a why choose situation in the next book - the tiger, the wolf or the bear ? Sign me up for Shere Khan ….
And I never thought I’d ever say that 😂🐅 … ever.
The steam was definitely a slow-burner but the book ended with a brilliant bang.. 😈 a cliffhanger, of course.
I am BEYOND excited for the next book in the duology.
•
•
•
Thank you so much to Cara Clare for including me on the ARC team for this.
🏰 Disney re-telling / based on The Jungle Book
🌶️ Spice
🖤 Dark fairy tale
🚻 Multiple POV
❓ Why choose ?
I LOVED THIS.
If you follow my Bookstagram account, you will know I’m a massive Disney fan. I adore a Disney re-telling / re-imagining - ESPECIALLY when it gets a little dark, a little spicy and the villain gets the girl. That’s my cup of tea right there.
So I am all for this book! Bound is based on The Jungle Book. I really wasn’t sure how the story was going to play out to begin with but I AM OBSESSED.
It had such an exciting plot, and I absolutely adored the setting. It almost felt like the jungle was a secondary character. It was so cleverly written, incorporating the story of the Jungle Book but making it something completely new, and intoxicating. It had me in a chokehold!
The characters as well! I loved that there was multiple POV. Bound is setting up nicely for a why choose situation in the next book - the tiger, the wolf or the bear ? Sign me up for Shere Khan ….
And I never thought I’d ever say that 😂🐅 … ever.
The steam was definitely a slow-burner but the book ended with a brilliant bang.. 😈 a cliffhanger, of course.
I am BEYOND excited for the next book in the duology.
•
•
•
Thank you so much to Cara Clare for including me on the ARC team for this.
May 30, 2023
I don't even know where to start. This book was so good! I couldn't put it down and gave up sleep to power through this book. This book was so different than her first series. As her blurb says, she's taken The Jungle book as her character inspiration and have it a dark romance twist. Her main female lead Glianna is a princess that is crazy controlled by her parents and gets sold off to bind two realms. She is sweet and has a great backbone in the face of a huge amount of adversity. Looks like this will become a why choose in the next book but this book only heated up at the VERY end with Shere Khan. Loved the characters, loved the world building. Cara didn't go over the top with every minutiae, but gave me enough that I could emerse myself in the experience. I can't wait until the 2nd book is released.
I did receive this book as an advanced reader copy for free but have received no compensation for my review. I actually loved this book so much I purchased it to support a great new author.
I did receive this book as an advanced reader copy for free but have received no compensation for my review. I actually loved this book so much I purchased it to support a great new author.
May 28, 2023
“Bound” was a real surprise. A “jungle book” retelling becomes a truly fascinating start of a duet with this book. I absolutely loved these characters and how they are connected to each other.
Even though Gliana is a princess, she is completely stuck in a life not her own. She’s a survivor no matter what, not a badass in the traditional way, but someone who learned to adapt to whatever lives throws her way. I like her spirit, and how it speaks to Shere Khan.
In this first book all the characters are introduced and not all of them start off on the right foot. I’m definitely curious to find out what will happen once they all come together. There is an enemies-to-lovers trope involved in this book, a bit of second chance and a blooming MM relationship I can’t wait to watch develop. I’m already waiting for book two!
Even though Gliana is a princess, she is completely stuck in a life not her own. She’s a survivor no matter what, not a badass in the traditional way, but someone who learned to adapt to whatever lives throws her way. I like her spirit, and how it speaks to Shere Khan.
In this first book all the characters are introduced and not all of them start off on the right foot. I’m definitely curious to find out what will happen once they all come together. There is an enemies-to-lovers trope involved in this book, a bit of second chance and a blooming MM relationship I can’t wait to watch develop. I’m already waiting for book two!
June 7, 2023
Shere Khan last of his kind, fueled by vengeance. Gliana is a princess whose family has kept her locked up until one day everything changes.
The reason this is a 5* for me is because this is everything and more I thought this book was going to be, I have been waiting for it to come out for a while. Gliana is a rebel princess who hates what her family has done. One night, she changes her entire world altogether. The bear is a childhood friend who she doesn't recognise, Shere Khan has been hunting Gliana since he could remember. Now he has her, and he can not bring himself to kill her. He longs for her touch.
The bear and the wolf have still not found them, what is going to happen in the next one.... I really wanna know 💕
The reason this is a 5* for me is because this is everything and more I thought this book was going to be, I have been waiting for it to come out for a while. Gliana is a rebel princess who hates what her family has done. One night, she changes her entire world altogether. The bear is a childhood friend who she doesn't recognise, Shere Khan has been hunting Gliana since he could remember. Now he has her, and he can not bring himself to kill her. He longs for her touch.
The bear and the wolf have still not found them, what is going to happen in the next one.... I really wanna know 💕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2023
⭐️⭐️
I was really excited for this Jungle Book fantasy retelling, but it fell short for me. The romance went from slow burn to rushed, the authors version of multiple POV’s included a copy and paste of certain scenes, and there was no world building or diving into the history of why things were happening. The concept has excellent potential, but this delivery came across as very amateur. If anyone knows of any other Jungle Book fantasy retellings, I’d love to know about them! There is a second book in this duology, but I’m not planning on reading it. At just over 200 pages, this is a quick read.
Gliana is a princess being sold to a king to unite kingdoms. Bear, her childhood friend, is a guard at the new kingdom and excited to see her again after 10 years-although she doesn’t recognize him. Shere Khan is a tiger-shifter bounty hunter who is frequently hired by Louis and has been waiting 10 years to capture the princessk after her father had all other shifters killed while Shere Khan watched. Bagheera is Shere Khan’s stunning black mare. Kaa is Gliana’s fathers advisor who travels with her to the new kingdom for her wedding. The story includes the wolf pack (other shifters who managed to escape and stay hidden), betrayal, jungle adventure (I wish this would have been way more detailed), and a love triangle.
I was really excited for this Jungle Book fantasy retelling, but it fell short for me. The romance went from slow burn to rushed, the authors version of multiple POV’s included a copy and paste of certain scenes, and there was no world building or diving into the history of why things were happening. The concept has excellent potential, but this delivery came across as very amateur. If anyone knows of any other Jungle Book fantasy retellings, I’d love to know about them! There is a second book in this duology, but I’m not planning on reading it. At just over 200 pages, this is a quick read.
Gliana is a princess being sold to a king to unite kingdoms. Bear, her childhood friend, is a guard at the new kingdom and excited to see her again after 10 years-although she doesn’t recognize him. Shere Khan is a tiger-shifter bounty hunter who is frequently hired by Louis and has been waiting 10 years to capture the princessk after her father had all other shifters killed while Shere Khan watched. Bagheera is Shere Khan’s stunning black mare. Kaa is Gliana’s fathers advisor who travels with her to the new kingdom for her wedding. The story includes the wolf pack (other shifters who managed to escape and stay hidden), betrayal, jungle adventure (I wish this would have been way more detailed), and a love triangle.
June 27, 2023
4.5⭐️
This is a reimagining of The Jungle Book, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect but I needn’t have worried as I loved it.
The world building is excellent I loved how the jungle was described almost as another person. The story is told from multiple POV which I loved. The only thing was it did repeat slightly sometimes when told from another POV.
The characters are so well written Shere Khan was the villain but you couldn’t help but love him.
The story kept me hooked all the way through and the cliffhanger at the end 😱. I need book two asap.
Thank you to the author for a gifted ebook in exchange for an honest review.
This is a reimagining of The Jungle Book, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect but I needn’t have worried as I loved it.
The world building is excellent I loved how the jungle was described almost as another person. The story is told from multiple POV which I loved. The only thing was it did repeat slightly sometimes when told from another POV.
The characters are so well written Shere Khan was the villain but you couldn’t help but love him.
The story kept me hooked all the way through and the cliffhanger at the end 😱. I need book two asap.
Thank you to the author for a gifted ebook in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2023
I do love a good classic story retelling especially if it is spicy and this book is a retelling of the classic tale of The Jungle Book. It is the first book in a duet and is a dark romance, slow burn, why-choose with so many twists and turns I could not put it down. I loved the world building and character development and although there has been no group activities yet I am so looking forward to the next book where if I am not mistaken we may also get some MM action too! This is a dark romance so as always please check your TW/CW before reading.
March 24, 2024
Kindle Unlimited catfish.
I was really disappointed. Nothing about this went how I thought it would, at ALL. I did not like the chapters telling the SAME scenes from different characters perspective, repeatedly. I did not like the reimagining of Gliana as a sad-sack princess. The characterization was roundly underdeveloped. None of the characters except Kaa got more than the absolute basics. I did like Bagheera (now a black mare) though; she earned this book a half star all by her self. Will not return for part 2. :(
⭐ 1/2 stars
I was really disappointed. Nothing about this went how I thought it would, at ALL. I did not like the chapters telling the SAME scenes from different characters perspective, repeatedly. I did not like the reimagining of Gliana as a sad-sack princess. The characterization was roundly underdeveloped. None of the characters except Kaa got more than the absolute basics. I did like Bagheera (now a black mare) though; she earned this book a half star all by her self. Will not return for part 2. :(
⭐ 1/2 stars
May 31, 2023
A darker and more seductive version of Jungle Book or at least some of the characters in that book. Gliana (FMC) is being used as political pawn between her father and someone he wants to ally himself with. Its just that things don't go to plan for her. Murder, underhand characters, revenge and some steamy parts too. This book definitely kept me on my toes and that cliff-hanger ending was killer!!! Ill be on tenterhooks until the next book now.
June 1, 2023
I didn't know how much I could enjoy a dark "Jungle Book" retelling until I jumped head first into Bound. Gliana is a strong FMC who has been through far too much and yet still finds a way to stay positive. Each of the characters of this book are unique in their backgrounds and personalities as well as their treatment of Gliana. The storyline is surprisingly emotional and has left me eager for the next book!
June 1, 2023
Loved this book a lot and I’m excited for the sequel!. For some reason, it was giving me The Bridge Kingdom vibes, especially in the beginning of the book. Definitely a slow burn - not too much happens in the spice category (if you’re expecting a lot of spice). Some of my favourite parts were flashback chapters to younger days.
Honestly, I am quite sad this will only be a duology - I loved the story idea that much, that I wish it was even longer and more in-depth.
Honestly, I am quite sad this will only be a duology - I loved the story idea that much, that I wish it was even longer and more in-depth.
May 31, 2023
This book turned out really good! It took the first few chapters to fully immerse myself in the world, but once I got into it I could not put it down!
This is a spicy and twisted retelling of one of my favorite stories "Jungle Book". The way the author was able to take old characters and completely remold them was phenomenal. I am excited to read book 2!
This is a spicy and twisted retelling of one of my favorite stories "Jungle Book". The way the author was able to take old characters and completely remold them was phenomenal. I am excited to read book 2!
June 1, 2023
4.5⭐️
Cara Clare knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat! The characters were great and the cliffhanger! Honestly, I hate cliffhangers, but somehow with Cara Clare’s books I don’t seem to mind them that much 😅
The wait until the second book is only about a month away (fingers crossed 🤞🏼) and I will be devouring it as soon as it drops!
Cara Clare knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat! The characters were great and the cliffhanger! Honestly, I hate cliffhangers, but somehow with Cara Clare’s books I don’t seem to mind them that much 😅
The wait until the second book is only about a month away (fingers crossed 🤞🏼) and I will be devouring it as soon as it drops!
August 22, 2023
Started and finished in one day I couldn't put it down It was that good I was hooked on the first sentence and there is so much tension between all the characters bear, Raksha and khan are pictured so detailed and u can imagine u are gliana can't wait to read the 2nd book if it's as good as this one I can't wait and dont mind the wait
June 9, 2023
I loved the premise and the characters. Our FMC is awesome, but I wish Shere Khan's motivation and feelings had been better explored. It also would have been easy to lean into a more thorough explanation of the magic system. Regardless I enjoyed it and look forward to the next book!
June 14, 2023
This was so good!
The characters are awesome and the plot will suck you in.
I honestly wish this series was going to be more than two books so that we could do a deep dive into this wonderful world that Cara has built.
The characters are awesome and the plot will suck you in.
I honestly wish this series was going to be more than two books so that we could do a deep dive into this wonderful world that Cara has built.
September 16, 2023
I loved The Phoenix prophecy series and this didn’t quite hit the same! It defo felt like it was setting us up so im excited to read the next one in hopes it will pick up. It was enjoyable to read but was expecting more after seeing a video on tiktok- let’s see where the series go!
August 20, 2024
📖: 5/5
💖: 4/5
🌶️: 4/5
🖋️: 5/5
Mc👸: 5/5
4.5/5⭐️
I didn’t have high expectations for this book, but it checked a lot of boxes that I like 🤭. Though it should have had more pages in certain parts to explain more and put more details
💖: 4/5
🌶️: 4/5
🖋️: 5/5
Mc👸: 5/5
4.5/5⭐️
I didn’t have high expectations for this book, but it checked a lot of boxes that I like 🤭. Though it should have had more pages in certain parts to explain more and put more details
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