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Twisted Fate
When you touch, the bond awakens, but only for a chosen few.
In this world, you're a settler or a searcher. Settlers pick a partner of their choosing, but the searchers spend their lives seeking out the person made for them. Most die without finding the one.
Emry Crowe's a settler, and happy in her life with Sebastian. When a chance encounter causes Theo's hand to graze her skin, destiny has other plans.
Theo's neither a searcher nor a settler, knowing his journey will be shorter than most. When the bond brings him to Emry, he has a second chance at life.
Emry's devotion to her husband never sways, but the pull between her and Theo may be too much. The three of them battle the laws of nature, wanting a happy ending on their own terms. When challenges arise that threaten everyone's future, both men decide their love for Emry might just change the rules.
The Fate and Flame duet releases back to back, on 10/01/23 & 10/13/23
***There is no cheating in this duet***
★★★★★ Liz has such a way with her writing style that makes you not want to put the book down and I honestly couldn’t get enough.
★★★★★ Liz’s books always have so many layers to peel back.
★★★★★ Liz Hambleton does a great job of creating people that you can't quite trust.
★★★★★ If you haven’t read anything by Liz yet, what the heck are you doing?!
★★★★★ The way Liz writes keeps you connected and creates a want in you to keep reading and see how the story plays out. The Bond It was spontaneous, the discovery of the bond. One couple first and then a dozen, all of them granted youth and health because they touched the skin of their one true person. Their love for each other was immediate but true, and once bondmates found each other, they were never apart. As the world watched in awe, two groups formed amongst its inhabitants. Searchers and Settlers. Searchers spent their lives looking for their bonded, and since the only way to find their fated partner was by skin-to-skin contact, everyone within reach was a candidate. It became the norm, people brushing against your body everywhere you went, but the bond was rare, and very few were granted the spark of its existence. Settlers opted for a traditional life, finding a partner and settling down to enjoy their family. Wedding bands were replaced by tattoos, symbolizing the permanency of their choice in the face of a world obsessed with bonding. Years went on and the business of the bond became the most lucrative enterprise. As greed often does, it bred sinister endeavors. The Genome Theory fronted as a research facility, capturing and holding lost youths, using them for torturous scientific research in desperation to find the key to the bond. After years of going undiscovered, a competitor, NeXus, uncovered the kidnappings and infiltrated Genome’s operation, rescuing hundreds of children who had undergone years of abuse. To this day, no one knows why bondmates exist or how they find one another.
In this world, you're a settler or a searcher. Settlers pick a partner of their choosing, but the searchers spend their lives seeking out the person made for them. Most die without finding the one.
Emry Crowe's a settler, and happy in her life with Sebastian. When a chance encounter causes Theo's hand to graze her skin, destiny has other plans.
Theo's neither a searcher nor a settler, knowing his journey will be shorter than most. When the bond brings him to Emry, he has a second chance at life.
Emry's devotion to her husband never sways, but the pull between her and Theo may be too much. The three of them battle the laws of nature, wanting a happy ending on their own terms. When challenges arise that threaten everyone's future, both men decide their love for Emry might just change the rules.
The Fate and Flame duet releases back to back, on 10/01/23 & 10/13/23
***There is no cheating in this duet***
★★★★★ Liz has such a way with her writing style that makes you not want to put the book down and I honestly couldn’t get enough.
★★★★★ Liz’s books always have so many layers to peel back.
★★★★★ Liz Hambleton does a great job of creating people that you can't quite trust.
★★★★★ If you haven’t read anything by Liz yet, what the heck are you doing?!
★★★★★ The way Liz writes keeps you connected and creates a want in you to keep reading and see how the story plays out. The Bond It was spontaneous, the discovery of the bond. One couple first and then a dozen, all of them granted youth and health because they touched the skin of their one true person. Their love for each other was immediate but true, and once bondmates found each other, they were never apart. As the world watched in awe, two groups formed amongst its inhabitants. Searchers and Settlers. Searchers spent their lives looking for their bonded, and since the only way to find their fated partner was by skin-to-skin contact, everyone within reach was a candidate. It became the norm, people brushing against your body everywhere you went, but the bond was rare, and very few were granted the spark of its existence. Settlers opted for a traditional life, finding a partner and settling down to enjoy their family. Wedding bands were replaced by tattoos, symbolizing the permanency of their choice in the face of a world obsessed with bonding. Years went on and the business of the bond became the most lucrative enterprise. As greed often does, it bred sinister endeavors. The Genome Theory fronted as a research facility, capturing and holding lost youths, using them for torturous scientific research in desperation to find the key to the bond. After years of going undiscovered, a competitor, NeXus, uncovered the kidnappings and infiltrated Genome’s operation, rescuing hundreds of children who had undergone years of abuse. To this day, no one knows why bondmates exist or how they find one another.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2023
457 people are currently reading
2820 people want to read
About the author
Liz Hambleton
12 books276 followersLiz Hambleton writes imperfectly beautiful romance. Her heroines are always strong-willed, and her heroes, resilient. Her characters live in alternate worlds and futuristic times, and putting yourself in their stories lets you escape reality while still feeling the power of true love.
If she’s not reading, she’s writing, and her deep adoration for the written word shines in everything she creates. Liz is married with two children, two large dogs, and a fish that refuses to die.
Connect with Liz on Social Media:
https://lizhambletonbooks.com/
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TikTok: @lizhambletonauthor
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If she’s not reading, she’s writing, and her deep adoration for the written word shines in everything she creates. Liz is married with two children, two large dogs, and a fish that refuses to die.
Connect with Liz on Social Media:
https://lizhambletonbooks.com/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/lizhambleton...
https://www.facebook.com/LizHambleton...
TikTok: @lizhambletonauthor
Instagram: @lizhambletonauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
October 15, 2023
Twisted Fate: An Urban Fantasy Romance
Fate & Flame book 1
Liz Hambleton
Stars:🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🔥
Cliffhanger
**Read trigger warnings!!!**
This review may contain spoilers.
Tropes:
- [x] Forced proximity
- [x] Fated mates/bonds
- [x] Love triangle
Wow! That’s the first thing that comes to mind not only when i finished this book, but the entire time I was reading. Twisted Fate has such a unique take on fated mates/bonds and I absolutely love it!
Let’s talk a minute about the characters…
Emery is a strong female character, despite her past. I am so glad Liz Hambeton did not write her as a timid and meek woman. Yes she has her moments, but such is life. Sebastian, I absolutely adore him! He has got to be going through h*ll but the fact he is not only understanding, but in the end willing to open his relationship to allow Theo in! I have a feeling my heart is going to break in the next book! Theo, the man who never really looked for his bonded, despite his condition. When a chance encounter brings him his bonded, suddenly he can’t stay away from her, but doesn’t want to causes her pain either.
I usually like my guys dark, gritty and morally gray but these guys are great! They make my heart smile if that even makes sense!
DO read this series!
This is an arc review!
Fate & Flame book 1
Liz Hambleton
Stars:🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🔥
Cliffhanger
**Read trigger warnings!!!**
This review may contain spoilers.
Tropes:
- [x] Forced proximity
- [x] Fated mates/bonds
- [x] Love triangle
Wow! That’s the first thing that comes to mind not only when i finished this book, but the entire time I was reading. Twisted Fate has such a unique take on fated mates/bonds and I absolutely love it!
Let’s talk a minute about the characters…
Emery is a strong female character, despite her past. I am so glad Liz Hambeton did not write her as a timid and meek woman. Yes she has her moments, but such is life. Sebastian, I absolutely adore him! He has got to be going through h*ll but the fact he is not only understanding, but in the end willing to open his relationship to allow Theo in! I have a feeling my heart is going to break in the next book! Theo, the man who never really looked for his bonded, despite his condition. When a chance encounter brings him his bonded, suddenly he can’t stay away from her, but doesn’t want to causes her pain either.
I usually like my guys dark, gritty and morally gray but these guys are great! They make my heart smile if that even makes sense!
DO read this series!
This is an arc review!
July 25, 2024
am i the asshole or is no one ever this nice?
October 1, 2023
* this arc was sent in exchange for an honest review *
Man oh man. This is my first book my Liz and I loved it. Whilst I wasn’t hooked from the beginning as soon as the bond between Theo and Emry hit I couldn’t stop and binged the rest of the book.
I’m that deep into it I’m going to go and start twisted flame this evening.
The overall storyline was enthralling and the twist at the end had my heart racing. I can’t wait to see what the 2nd part of this duet has to offer.
Liz thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a part of your arc team! 🖤
Man oh man. This is my first book my Liz and I loved it. Whilst I wasn’t hooked from the beginning as soon as the bond between Theo and Emry hit I couldn’t stop and binged the rest of the book.
I’m that deep into it I’m going to go and start twisted flame this evening.
The overall storyline was enthralling and the twist at the end had my heart racing. I can’t wait to see what the 2nd part of this duet has to offer.
Liz thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a part of your arc team! 🖤
September 1, 2025
I was surprised by this duet. I actually fell upon it, because one of the members of the #cakeeaters suggested it for a buddy read. I ended up, getting the books from KU and bought the audiobooks. But I just listened to the audiobook.
It was really good. It is not a why choose? but a Menage. It has fated mates in it and the story is good. Also the plot held my attention all the time. Things move on at a nice pace.
The only problem is that you need to go in blind and just go for it. Which means no plot spoilers or other spoilers here.
It was really good. It is not a why choose? but a Menage. It has fated mates in it and the story is good. Also the plot held my attention all the time. Things move on at a nice pace.
The only problem is that you need to go in blind and just go for it. Which means no plot spoilers or other spoilers here.
October 18, 2023
Wow! It is amazing how creative Liz is. She creates these worlds over and over so unique from anything I’ve read. Her storylines are well developed and detailed, not something you can rush through and read, but instead take your time and savor the details. Starting book 2 in this duet immediately.
November 4, 2023
**I want to start by saying thank you to Liz for allowing me to be part of the ARC review team!**
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
***OKAY WELL. When I read the synopsis I really was nervous when I read "mate" and "bond" and was hoping it wouldn't be another "LOVE OF MY LIFE LETS LIVE HAPPILY EVER AFTER". Liz in fact did the opposite. She described the bond so vividly unlike I have ever seen it explained! Liz was able to put a twist and clever take on a dynamic we all love to read about and make it her own.***
Emry, a very strong willed women with an impossible past & Sabastian, her husband who saved her decided to settle and be married and choose to love each other in a world full of searchers. Searchers who are searching for their bondmate. What I loved about this book was the pull in the opposite direction that books usually go when you hear "bond". Emry continued to fight even though it almost killed her to be away from her bonded (Theo) because her love was so strong for her husband. She didn't want to bond, she was perfectly happy in her life, but twisted fate had other plans.
"She thinks I gave up or gave in, but she doesn't know how it feels to have someone love you because they chose you. If she did, everything would change"
I love how supportive Sebastian is and how much he truly loves his wife no matter what happens between her and Theo. AND THEO?! He damn near broke my heart. Can you imagine finding the one person who is meant to complete you and give you a longer life, only to realize you will be tearing them apart from the person who has loved them almost their whole life? TEARS. Both Theo and Sebastian were such understanding and likeable male leads, which makes it harder for you to pick which one you rather her end up with.
As you get further in the book you learn more about the characters and their development. You learn about their pasts, what they have endured, what they want out of life and by the end you want them to just all live happily ever after together, all 3 of them! But like I said Liz describes the bond like no other and will it be possible to break, bend or change?
By the end of the book I was waiting and waiting for something big to happen and knew it had to be coming because of the build up. and then BAM. It hits you and drags you right into book 2! Don't sleep on this series! It really is one of the most unique books I have read this year and I am excited to start book 2 tonight!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
***OKAY WELL. When I read the synopsis I really was nervous when I read "mate" and "bond" and was hoping it wouldn't be another "LOVE OF MY LIFE LETS LIVE HAPPILY EVER AFTER". Liz in fact did the opposite. She described the bond so vividly unlike I have ever seen it explained! Liz was able to put a twist and clever take on a dynamic we all love to read about and make it her own.***
Emry, a very strong willed women with an impossible past & Sabastian, her husband who saved her decided to settle and be married and choose to love each other in a world full of searchers. Searchers who are searching for their bondmate. What I loved about this book was the pull in the opposite direction that books usually go when you hear "bond". Emry continued to fight even though it almost killed her to be away from her bonded (Theo) because her love was so strong for her husband. She didn't want to bond, she was perfectly happy in her life, but twisted fate had other plans.
"She thinks I gave up or gave in, but she doesn't know how it feels to have someone love you because they chose you. If she did, everything would change"
I love how supportive Sebastian is and how much he truly loves his wife no matter what happens between her and Theo. AND THEO?! He damn near broke my heart. Can you imagine finding the one person who is meant to complete you and give you a longer life, only to realize you will be tearing them apart from the person who has loved them almost their whole life? TEARS. Both Theo and Sebastian were such understanding and likeable male leads, which makes it harder for you to pick which one you rather her end up with.
As you get further in the book you learn more about the characters and their development. You learn about their pasts, what they have endured, what they want out of life and by the end you want them to just all live happily ever after together, all 3 of them! But like I said Liz describes the bond like no other and will it be possible to break, bend or change?
By the end of the book I was waiting and waiting for something big to happen and knew it had to be coming because of the build up. and then BAM. It hits you and drags you right into book 2! Don't sleep on this series! It really is one of the most unique books I have read this year and I am excited to start book 2 tonight!
September 28, 2023
In a world where you are either a settler or searcher our story begins. For those who search the end goal is to find your bonded, fated mate. A bond that is so strong it heals and awakens something magical within you. Searchers are eternally searching for their mate at all costs, most never coming close. where settlers choose to live life outside of this concept and love or co parents with a person of their choosing.
Emry Crowe our female lead is a settler, and happy married to her partner of her own choosing Sebastian. She scoffs at searchers and does not understand the obsession when you can choose love and happiness in a person of your own choosing. As a scientist she sees it from a different perspective and often voices her opinions - even to her best friend who is a searcher. Her past experiences and trauma due to searchers play a factor in her upbringing. Sebastian was Emrys knight in shining armour - pulling her out of her trauma and helping her heal - falling in love in the process.
Theodore - neither a searcher or seeker plans on living out his life on his own terms - partially due to the heart condition he’s inherited from his father.
When a chance encounter causes Theo and Emry to share in a physical touch - destiny deals another hand.
Emry in a panic flees and never sways from her love and devotion to her husband Sebastian. But Sebastian understands the bond and knows it is inevitable that they do not end up together.
Emry wants to break the bond which there is no research on how to or if it’s even possible. Both Theo and Emry agree to become test subjects in order to break the bond. Theo, Emery, and Sebastian must work together and come to an understanding as challenges arise that threaten the safety of one of them.
Emry's devotion to her husband never sways, but the pull between her and Theo may be too much. The three of them battle the laws of nature, wanting a happy ending on their own terms. When challenges arise that threaten everyone's future, both men decide their love for Emry might just change the rules.
This arc was sent to me in exchange for my honest review.
Emry Crowe our female lead is a settler, and happy married to her partner of her own choosing Sebastian. She scoffs at searchers and does not understand the obsession when you can choose love and happiness in a person of your own choosing. As a scientist she sees it from a different perspective and often voices her opinions - even to her best friend who is a searcher. Her past experiences and trauma due to searchers play a factor in her upbringing. Sebastian was Emrys knight in shining armour - pulling her out of her trauma and helping her heal - falling in love in the process.
Theodore - neither a searcher or seeker plans on living out his life on his own terms - partially due to the heart condition he’s inherited from his father.
When a chance encounter causes Theo and Emry to share in a physical touch - destiny deals another hand.
Emry in a panic flees and never sways from her love and devotion to her husband Sebastian. But Sebastian understands the bond and knows it is inevitable that they do not end up together.
Emry wants to break the bond which there is no research on how to or if it’s even possible. Both Theo and Emry agree to become test subjects in order to break the bond. Theo, Emery, and Sebastian must work together and come to an understanding as challenges arise that threaten the safety of one of them.
Emry's devotion to her husband never sways, but the pull between her and Theo may be too much. The three of them battle the laws of nature, wanting a happy ending on their own terms. When challenges arise that threaten everyone's future, both men decide their love for Emry might just change the rules.
This arc was sent to me in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2025
I didn't expect this poly (MFM) romance to be my cup of tea: established married couple, slow burn romance with the other MMC despite them being fated/bonded mates, and it's not MMF (my reading preference).
However, this was a really unique take on the fated mates concept. Bond mates are a rarity in the future, yet so many people (Searchers) are hopeful it'll happen to them. Bonded mates are set for life financially while they donate blood for government research to "crack the code" of the bond, and have a life expectancy of up to 500 years(!).
The FMC, Emry, is not a Searcher, but rather a Settler. The reasons for that are woven into her childhood and the medical trauma she endured as a teenager. Her husband, Sebastian, was almost too perfect at times. So, when he expressed how he was really feeling, it was refreshing. The dual first person perspectives are from Emry and Theo, the other MMC, which was an interesting choice. I really was curious how the trio's dynamic would work out since Emry was really set on rejecting and breaking the bond.
The only aspects of this book I disliked were a few chapters that had scenes from both Emry's and Theo's perspectives, as well as the blog post style writing of the "news articles." It also ends on a cliffhanger.
However, this was a really unique take on the fated mates concept. Bond mates are a rarity in the future, yet so many people (Searchers) are hopeful it'll happen to them. Bonded mates are set for life financially while they donate blood for government research to "crack the code" of the bond, and have a life expectancy of up to 500 years(!).
The FMC, Emry, is not a Searcher, but rather a Settler. The reasons for that are woven into her childhood and the medical trauma she endured as a teenager. Her husband, Sebastian, was almost too perfect at times. So, when he expressed how he was really feeling, it was refreshing. The dual first person perspectives are from Emry and Theo, the other MMC, which was an interesting choice. I really was curious how the trio's dynamic would work out since Emry was really set on rejecting and breaking the bond.
The only aspects of this book I disliked were a few chapters that had scenes from both Emry's and Theo's perspectives, as well as the blog post style writing of the "news articles." It also ends on a cliffhanger.
July 16, 2025
This was unlike anything I've read before. I am loving all the characters and it's heartbreaking seeing these characters go through so many emotions and it has the potential to end very badly. I can't wait to read the second book because this ended in a cliffhanger!!
October 2, 2023
I went in blind and was absolutely blown away! Great read and hard to put down.
Set in the future where a simple touch of another can awaken a bond. A bond that heals, defies aging, and connects you with your soulmate. People are considered either a Searcher or a Settler; those that spend their lives searching for their bonded, or those that settle and marry one of their choice to live out a normal, traditional life.
The story follows Emry, a Settler, who is married to Sebastian, and Theo, her newly bonded, as they battle the forces of nature and attempt to break the bond.
I won't give any spoilers but it ends on a cliffhanger. Make sure to check out Twin Flames (releasing 10/13/23).
Set in the future where a simple touch of another can awaken a bond. A bond that heals, defies aging, and connects you with your soulmate. People are considered either a Searcher or a Settler; those that spend their lives searching for their bonded, or those that settle and marry one of their choice to live out a normal, traditional life.
The story follows Emry, a Settler, who is married to Sebastian, and Theo, her newly bonded, as they battle the forces of nature and attempt to break the bond.
I won't give any spoilers but it ends on a cliffhanger. Make sure to check out Twin Flames (releasing 10/13/23).
September 30, 2023
I want to start by saying thank you to Liz for allowing me to be part of the ARC review team. I’ve read 86 books this year and Twisted Fate is one I’m going to be thinking and talking about for a while. It has everything I’ve been wanting in a 5⭐️ book. Incredible writing, forced proximity, fated mates, found family, some spice, and a little bit of mystery. Liz also has the ability to really put you into her characters shoes so you can almost feel their emotions with them and for me that doesn’t happen often.
I want to keep this completely spoiler free but just know you won’t be able to put this one down!!!!!
I’m running to read Twin Flame now to see what happens next!!
I want to keep this completely spoiler free but just know you won’t be able to put this one down!!!!!
I’m running to read Twin Flame now to see what happens next!!
March 31, 2025
The twist on bonded/fated mates is refreshing. I feel like a lot happened but also nothing substantial happened. Some part of the book felt slow and dragged on and then picked up the last few chapters. But not enough for me to pick up the next.
Overall I hate the FMC. She gave off the most judgmental, self righteous, bratty woman. Like girl we get it you found the catch of a lifetime and settled but that doesn’t mean you look at your best friend under your nose like some self righteous prick just because she wants to experience a life different from what you picked. Really pissed off. I don’t she deserves her best friend Alison or her husband Seb or her bonded, Theo.
Overall I hate the FMC. She gave off the most judgmental, self righteous, bratty woman. Like girl we get it you found the catch of a lifetime and settled but that doesn’t mean you look at your best friend under your nose like some self righteous prick just because she wants to experience a life different from what you picked. Really pissed off. I don’t she deserves her best friend Alison or her husband Seb or her bonded, Theo.
September 29, 2025
I love this book. It caused me to have anxiety. Silly, I know. The character development and the love these characters share are brilliant. Liz has done it to be sure. I can't wait to start reading book two.
The idea that our society could be so crazed to find that one true love, that a mother would sacrifice her child to find the bond is bewildering. Sebastion and Emry share a love that can't be broken from a bond, but that doesn't mean the bond can't still be very present in all three of the man characters. I love the love they all three share. I was on the edge of my seat.
The idea that our society could be so crazed to find that one true love, that a mother would sacrifice her child to find the bond is bewildering. Sebastion and Emry share a love that can't be broken from a bond, but that doesn't mean the bond can't still be very present in all three of the man characters. I love the love they all three share. I was on the edge of my seat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2023
Y'all!!! I am ob-freaking-sessed. I am in love with this world. I never want to leave.
Twisted Fate is a dystopian adult romance book that follows a society in which there are Searchers and Settlers. Searchers spend their entire life desperately seeking out their bonded mate. Which finding a mate is extremely rare and the only way one finds their mate is through physical touch. So everyone, everywhere is always randomly touching people. In addition, when pairs are mated, they seem to age in reverse (basically): wrinkles disappear, scars disappear, and their life spans get longer by like 500 years. Settlers find someone to spend their life with and are content on not finding their bonded mate.
Twisted Fate follows two settlers: Emery and Sebastian.
But what happens when a bond occurs?
The books opens 13 years in the past with 16 year old Emery at an underground experimental lab when she is rescued by 19 year old Sebastian - a man who works for the government's geneticists. In this underground lab, they tested on people to basically try and force bonds to occur. These experiments were extremely harsh and a lost cause. Especially since no one knew why bonds existed and how they came about - only that they are extremely rare.
Emery and Sebastian begin a friendship. But he remained hesitant of any relationship beyond friendship at first. He really wanted her to experience the world and find herself. (Highly recommend reading the bonus chapter at the end of the book to get an extra glimpse at this). But the two decide during her last year in college to give it a go and live out their life together forever in contentment. Especially since neither were interested in trying to find their bonded mate.
Fast forward 13 years and Sebastian still works for the same company and Emery is now a professor. Their life is very content and the two are hopelessly in love. Sebastian is the ultimate book boyfriend, he cooks for her, bathes her, and he is so loving and caring it just oozes out of him. The two are a match made in haven.
Due to Emery's past, she still suffers from PTSD and random people constantly touching her can send her into panic attacks. Which lately she's been experiencing high stress from this. So when her and her best friend get in a little disagreement, it initiates a panic attack. Fleeing as quickly as she can, she runs into a man. Happy to find that this man isn't desperate to touch her, she can take a deep breath. But when he hands her a napkin, the two brush contact sending a jolt of electricity throughout their bodies.
This isn't something Emery wanted and so she runs, but she knows she cannot hide this forever.
Will Emery and Sebastian be end game? How will the bond challenge their relationship?
Liz Hambleton has a way of writing that literally captures you and you can't stop reading. This is book one in a duology and does end on a cliffhanger and I need book two like yesterday.
HEA: No, not yet (cliffhanger)
POV: Dual, First Person
OWD/OMD: Ehhh, listen she is married and ends up finding a bonded mate (but I wouldn't consider it drama
STEAMY: Yes
Twisted Fate is a dystopian adult romance book that follows a society in which there are Searchers and Settlers. Searchers spend their entire life desperately seeking out their bonded mate. Which finding a mate is extremely rare and the only way one finds their mate is through physical touch. So everyone, everywhere is always randomly touching people. In addition, when pairs are mated, they seem to age in reverse (basically): wrinkles disappear, scars disappear, and their life spans get longer by like 500 years. Settlers find someone to spend their life with and are content on not finding their bonded mate.
Twisted Fate follows two settlers: Emery and Sebastian.
But what happens when a bond occurs?
The books opens 13 years in the past with 16 year old Emery at an underground experimental lab when she is rescued by 19 year old Sebastian - a man who works for the government's geneticists. In this underground lab, they tested on people to basically try and force bonds to occur. These experiments were extremely harsh and a lost cause. Especially since no one knew why bonds existed and how they came about - only that they are extremely rare.
Emery and Sebastian begin a friendship. But he remained hesitant of any relationship beyond friendship at first. He really wanted her to experience the world and find herself. (Highly recommend reading the bonus chapter at the end of the book to get an extra glimpse at this). But the two decide during her last year in college to give it a go and live out their life together forever in contentment. Especially since neither were interested in trying to find their bonded mate.
Fast forward 13 years and Sebastian still works for the same company and Emery is now a professor. Their life is very content and the two are hopelessly in love. Sebastian is the ultimate book boyfriend, he cooks for her, bathes her, and he is so loving and caring it just oozes out of him. The two are a match made in haven.
Due to Emery's past, she still suffers from PTSD and random people constantly touching her can send her into panic attacks. Which lately she's been experiencing high stress from this. So when her and her best friend get in a little disagreement, it initiates a panic attack. Fleeing as quickly as she can, she runs into a man. Happy to find that this man isn't desperate to touch her, she can take a deep breath. But when he hands her a napkin, the two brush contact sending a jolt of electricity throughout their bodies.
This isn't something Emery wanted and so she runs, but she knows she cannot hide this forever.
Will Emery and Sebastian be end game? How will the bond challenge their relationship?
Liz Hambleton has a way of writing that literally captures you and you can't stop reading. This is book one in a duology and does end on a cliffhanger and I need book two like yesterday.
HEA: No, not yet (cliffhanger)
POV: Dual, First Person
OWD/OMD: Ehhh, listen she is married and ends up finding a bonded mate (but I wouldn't consider it drama
STEAMY: Yes
October 1, 2023
4 -⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I'm sorry we didn't meet under different circumstances. I'm sorry I'm not Sebastian..."
Twisted Fate is the first novel in the Adult Sci-Fi Romance duology where in this world their are settlers and searchers: those who spend their days desperately searching for a soulmate to give them longevity and a bond so precious OR those who decide to accept their fate and find happiness in the world they know, and even find love and marriage. Emry has settled into a happy marriage alongside Sebastian but finds herself torn apart when she meets Theo and realizes she must decide between love...and family.
This angsty fated mates book had the best tension I have read in a long time. Emry is a strong and resilient figure, having gone with great horrors in her younger years she has embraced a future where she chooses love herself rather than having it thrust on her. Her love of Sebastian is powerful and fills your heart. I truly felt for her when she faced with the uncertainty of their future. I struggled so much with her denial but the love and strain she felt was filling the pages
Theo is a business man who knows his life is measured in years. He has spent his time keeping people distanced and, yet, meeting Emry changes everything. He is a man stuck in an incredibly hard place and, oh boy, the pain I felt for this man - finding the one person who is meant to complete his soul and give him a long life only to realize he will cause her the loss of the one person who has stood by her side and loved her.
I also want to address Sebastien a bit. When I started this book I went on the defensive thinking I should not like him because he is not her mate...but over the course of the book I came to love him the same as Theo and Emry. He is a comfort to Emry but also the most accepting man I have read. He knows the odds are stacked against him despite Emry's clinging to him but watching him try to be the rock against the storm pulled on my heartstrings time and time again.
This book does contain spice. I would say 3 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. There is a pre-existing relationship between Emry and Sebastian as husband and wife and so spice does appear early on. It was well written and also emphasizes the level of angst that hit me as these three seek to overpower something many see as impossible...biology.
The world building and story line is this book fascinates me. I will say the use of the word "settler" did throw me off at first as the connotation of it is vastly different than used in this book, but the premise of this society draws on science fiction to open this world of people desperate for connection. Seeing how the very world has change to fit the needs of these people was interesting as an alternative reality.
The story itself is slow to build up but I didn't feel that slowed the reading experience. Instead we get time to really understand each character and their struggles. The angst, the tension, and the emotions felt amongst each character tugged onto me the entire time in a way I could not put this book done. The action and movement definitely picks up and hits with a painful cliffhanger BUT book 2 does come out very soon.
If you loved fated mates, angst, and a question of love vs. biology then this book is a perfectly fast read for you to dive into!
Thank you Liz for the e-ARC!
"I'm sorry we didn't meet under different circumstances. I'm sorry I'm not Sebastian..."
Twisted Fate is the first novel in the Adult Sci-Fi Romance duology where in this world their are settlers and searchers: those who spend their days desperately searching for a soulmate to give them longevity and a bond so precious OR those who decide to accept their fate and find happiness in the world they know, and even find love and marriage. Emry has settled into a happy marriage alongside Sebastian but finds herself torn apart when she meets Theo and realizes she must decide between love...and family.
This angsty fated mates book had the best tension I have read in a long time. Emry is a strong and resilient figure, having gone with great horrors in her younger years she has embraced a future where she chooses love herself rather than having it thrust on her. Her love of Sebastian is powerful and fills your heart. I truly felt for her when she faced with the uncertainty of their future. I struggled so much with her denial but the love and strain she felt was filling the pages
Theo is a business man who knows his life is measured in years. He has spent his time keeping people distanced and, yet, meeting Emry changes everything. He is a man stuck in an incredibly hard place and, oh boy, the pain I felt for this man - finding the one person who is meant to complete his soul and give him a long life only to realize he will cause her the loss of the one person who has stood by her side and loved her.
I also want to address Sebastien a bit. When I started this book I went on the defensive thinking I should not like him because he is not her mate...but over the course of the book I came to love him the same as Theo and Emry. He is a comfort to Emry but also the most accepting man I have read. He knows the odds are stacked against him despite Emry's clinging to him but watching him try to be the rock against the storm pulled on my heartstrings time and time again.
This book does contain spice. I would say 3 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. There is a pre-existing relationship between Emry and Sebastian as husband and wife and so spice does appear early on. It was well written and also emphasizes the level of angst that hit me as these three seek to overpower something many see as impossible...biology.
The world building and story line is this book fascinates me. I will say the use of the word "settler" did throw me off at first as the connotation of it is vastly different than used in this book, but the premise of this society draws on science fiction to open this world of people desperate for connection. Seeing how the very world has change to fit the needs of these people was interesting as an alternative reality.
The story itself is slow to build up but I didn't feel that slowed the reading experience. Instead we get time to really understand each character and their struggles. The angst, the tension, and the emotions felt amongst each character tugged onto me the entire time in a way I could not put this book done. The action and movement definitely picks up and hits with a painful cliffhanger BUT book 2 does come out very soon.
If you loved fated mates, angst, and a question of love vs. biology then this book is a perfectly fast read for you to dive into!
Thank you Liz for the e-ARC!
October 23, 2023
I received an arc of this book in exchange for my honest thought and review. The following thoughts, comments, and opinions are my own.
I was pulled into this book from chapter one and I couldn’t put it down. Liz Hambleton’s writing in this story is beyond words. The mind she has to develop this story is mind blowing. How she builds the world and her characters just *chefs kiss*! So good! The world Liz builds within these pages is filled with characters who create an unimaginable bonds with a simple touch. A bond that heals, rejuvenates them, and sears two soul mates together. The pages of this book flew by for me. This book has forced proximity, found family, fated mates, spice, and an amazing plot. What I love most in a book is to fall into the story and live the plot right along with the characters and Liz does just that. She puts us in the characters head and we live every moment, feel every emotion, and see everything they see. This book has become a book that stands out by far for me and will be a book I will return to read again. I can’t wait to see what the second book has in store. This is a book I will recommend to anyone!
I was pulled into this book from chapter one and I couldn’t put it down. Liz Hambleton’s writing in this story is beyond words. The mind she has to develop this story is mind blowing. How she builds the world and her characters just *chefs kiss*! So good! The world Liz builds within these pages is filled with characters who create an unimaginable bonds with a simple touch. A bond that heals, rejuvenates them, and sears two soul mates together. The pages of this book flew by for me. This book has forced proximity, found family, fated mates, spice, and an amazing plot. What I love most in a book is to fall into the story and live the plot right along with the characters and Liz does just that. She puts us in the characters head and we live every moment, feel every emotion, and see everything they see. This book has become a book that stands out by far for me and will be a book I will return to read again. I can’t wait to see what the second book has in store. This is a book I will recommend to anyone!
December 15, 2023
3.8⭐️ rounding up to 4.
I was a little concerned about my feelings of the FMC at the start. But as I learned more about Emrys past I felt more of a connection with her. And I adore Theo, I think he is fun. And Sebastian is so sweet.
The concept of this book is so interesting. It kept me engaged the entire time. Some spots are a bit slow. But still feel necessary. I cannot wait to start the second book to see how the story ends.
I was a little concerned about my feelings of the FMC at the start. But as I learned more about Emrys past I felt more of a connection with her. And I adore Theo, I think he is fun. And Sebastian is so sweet.
The concept of this book is so interesting. It kept me engaged the entire time. Some spots are a bit slow. But still feel necessary. I cannot wait to start the second book to see how the story ends.
September 26, 2023
Altered universe and chapter one had me PULLED IN. You have to graze your partner to know if they are YOUR partner? Weird concept but interesting! Emry? Didn’t go that route and married a man she loves (and I love) Seb!! Then she meets her bond THEO?! Lord lord ready for book two.
I have received this ARC for an honest review, all thoughts/opinions above are my own.
I have received this ARC for an honest review, all thoughts/opinions above are my own.
October 21, 2023
Huge thanks to Liz Hambleton for letting me be on your ARC team!
The plot behind this book was absolutely genius and the execution was perfect. I got hooked from the first page. I love how deep of a role the bond and the idea of settlers vs searchers played in the society. I’m still just completely in awe of this story. As for the characters, they were amazing. There was so much to love about each of them. Another thing that stood out in this book for me was the writing style. While I don’t think there was anything too special about it, it just made it so easy to picture everything that was happening. It’s beautifully written but not in an ‘in your face’ sort of way. This was just such a beautiful story and I honestly think it’s something that everyone should give a try!
The plot behind this book was absolutely genius and the execution was perfect. I got hooked from the first page. I love how deep of a role the bond and the idea of settlers vs searchers played in the society. I’m still just completely in awe of this story. As for the characters, they were amazing. There was so much to love about each of them. Another thing that stood out in this book for me was the writing style. While I don’t think there was anything too special about it, it just made it so easy to picture everything that was happening. It’s beautifully written but not in an ‘in your face’ sort of way. This was just such a beautiful story and I honestly think it’s something that everyone should give a try!
July 10, 2024
Devastatingly beautiful. The world building was wildly unique and captivating. Each character was written incredibly well. As you're reading, you can decide if you're a Settler or a Seeker, with no negative connotations besides the main character's bias. I was so deeply invested in this book and it ended on such a brutal cliffhanger so the next book is immediately added to my Kindle.
January 7, 2024
Phenomenal!
This book has SUCH a cool and unique plot. I absolutely loved it! I SOBBED in parts but it’s so good! The cliffhanger at the end has me in its grip, so I’m going to go start the second book.
This book has SUCH a cool and unique plot. I absolutely loved it! I SOBBED in parts but it’s so good! The cliffhanger at the end has me in its grip, so I’m going to go start the second book.
January 27, 2024
4⭐️
1 🌶️
Duology review: welp these books will make you FEEL things. Extremely unique, bittersweet, lovely, thought provoking, just very well done. There was a lot of crying by me throughout these books. Sitting here with a tear stained face having finished the second one. This one is gonna echo in my dreams I just know it.
This book:
A really unique premise and characters I got really invested in. Can’t wait to see how it all turns out. I know what I’m hoping for but, we will see. Is it fair to give a book 4 stars instead of 5 because the FMC did the dumbest shit in the last 2% of the book? Probably….but it is what it is.
1 🌶️
Duology review: welp these books will make you FEEL things. Extremely unique, bittersweet, lovely, thought provoking, just very well done. There was a lot of crying by me throughout these books. Sitting here with a tear stained face having finished the second one. This one is gonna echo in my dreams I just know it.
This book:
A really unique premise and characters I got really invested in. Can’t wait to see how it all turns out. I know what I’m hoping for but, we will see. Is it fair to give a book 4 stars instead of 5 because the FMC did the dumbest shit in the last 2% of the book? Probably….but it is what it is.
October 11, 2023
This was such an interesting concept, completely different to what I've read before - I've read about fated mates, but not where the whole world's DNA is physically altered - everyone has a very small chance of meeting 'the one'.
'It was spontaneous, the discovery of the bond. One couple first and then a dozen, all of them granted youth and health because they touched the skin of their one true person'.
Emry is a 'settler', meaning she's chosen to marry and not be a 'searcher' - searching for their bond mate. She's happy as a settler, and happy in her marriage to Seb. But all of this changes when Emry brushes skin with her bond mate.. Theo. Will she accept the bond, or stay in her chosen marriage with Seb?
𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
I loved this, it was such a cool concept and it was brought to life so well.
The characters were amazing, I usually don't like triangles but everyone was so mature about the situation - Seb being understanding and supportive, you can't help who your bond mate is and when you find them; Theo also understanding that his bond mate is married, but also heartbreaking for him; and Emry, completely torn between her chosen husband and the pull of her bond mate.
'Why break his heart with a sledgehammer when a knife is enough?'
I can't to see where this takes us in the second book! Thank you to Liz for this copy. This review is voluntary.
'It was spontaneous, the discovery of the bond. One couple first and then a dozen, all of them granted youth and health because they touched the skin of their one true person'.
Emry is a 'settler', meaning she's chosen to marry and not be a 'searcher' - searching for their bond mate. She's happy as a settler, and happy in her marriage to Seb. But all of this changes when Emry brushes skin with her bond mate.. Theo. Will she accept the bond, or stay in her chosen marriage with Seb?
𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
I loved this, it was such a cool concept and it was brought to life so well.
The characters were amazing, I usually don't like triangles but everyone was so mature about the situation - Seb being understanding and supportive, you can't help who your bond mate is and when you find them; Theo also understanding that his bond mate is married, but also heartbreaking for him; and Emry, completely torn between her chosen husband and the pull of her bond mate.
'Why break his heart with a sledgehammer when a knife is enough?'
I can't to see where this takes us in the second book! Thank you to Liz for this copy. This review is voluntary.
November 1, 2024
Unique concept. Really enjoy the writing style and the characters. The emotions in this book are so heart wrenching at times. Beautiful love triangle romance 🩷
December 1, 2024
Very creative story! I envisioned one thing but something else happened.
March 29, 2025
Damn, I wish I was good at writing reviews because this book needs more reviews. Both books.
July 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.✨
The bonds remind me a bit of the Broken Bonds series but just the tiniest bit of fantasy in a normal world! Had a great time and read it in like two days. I loved the relationship dynamic even if I wanted to shake our FMC sometimes 😅 she felts so relatable though
The bonds remind me a bit of the Broken Bonds series but just the tiniest bit of fantasy in a normal world! Had a great time and read it in like two days. I loved the relationship dynamic even if I wanted to shake our FMC sometimes 😅 she felts so relatable though
October 15, 2023
These are the story of Emry, Sebastian and Theo. At first it is on Emry and Sebastian, who are both settlers, finding the person they choose to love and marry. Others are searchers, who are searching for the person made just for them.
Theo is neither a searchers or a settler, when fate throws a curve his way.
Greed of course makes others become sinister in their ways of trying to make money. But Emry, Sebastian and Theo want to put Genome Theory out of business.
This duet was so good!! I was so glad Liz sent both arc’s together because you will want to start Twisted Flame immediately.
Theo is neither a searchers or a settler, when fate throws a curve his way.
Greed of course makes others become sinister in their ways of trying to make money. But Emry, Sebastian and Theo want to put Genome Theory out of business.
This duet was so good!! I was so glad Liz sent both arc’s together because you will want to start Twisted Flame immediately.
December 10, 2024
THIS BOOK
ate me, chewed me up and spit me out.
it was great
In a world where only a select few are "bonded," everyone wants to be. Society itself had made it it's mission to figure out what it is and how everyone can have it.
And our main character, Emry, got it. Probably the only person in the entire world who would never want it in the first place.
And that's where I'll leave the summary. That's how I was acquainted with the book and I think it's a good jumping off point.
It's an incredible book, incredibly written. I love it so much. The characters are fantastic, sometimes they are so sweet to each other I want to throw up.
I just started reading the second one and I don't know how I'm gonna handle it.
ate me, chewed me up and spit me out.
it was great
In a world where only a select few are "bonded," everyone wants to be. Society itself had made it it's mission to figure out what it is and how everyone can have it.
And our main character, Emry, got it. Probably the only person in the entire world who would never want it in the first place.
And that's where I'll leave the summary. That's how I was acquainted with the book and I think it's a good jumping off point.
It's an incredible book, incredibly written. I love it so much. The characters are fantastic, sometimes they are so sweet to each other I want to throw up.
I just started reading the second one and I don't know how I'm gonna handle it.
October 17, 2023
What do you do when you unexpectedly find your bonded soulmate, but you are already married and in love with someone else…?
The storyline of this book is SO unique and it hooked me from the very start. Once I picked this up, I didn’t want to put it down!! I am running to read the second book, Twin Flame, because I have to know how this story plays out!
•Dystopian romance
•Urban fantasy
•Fated mates
•Spice
The storyline of this book is SO unique and it hooked me from the very start. Once I picked this up, I didn’t want to put it down!! I am running to read the second book, Twin Flame, because I have to know how this story plays out!
•Dystopian romance
•Urban fantasy
•Fated mates
•Spice
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