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Found & Freed: The Unfettered #2
Unfettered Kelpie
Do the very worst to him and then cherish him.
That’s what my friend Brodie wants me to do to a little kelpie.
Save a life, instead of taking one, is another thing he says.
The kelpie was imprisoned in a billionaire’s harem, the piece of work bit him, forcing a mating bond and making the kelpie believe he was in love.
The enslaver had to die, and now the kelpie is dying too. The only thing that can save him is a new mate. Except he won’t want one. I’ll have to force my mark on him. Then the kelpie mating magic will do its thing and he will become devoted to me. He will think I’m the one he loves.
Brodie says that Doolin is adorable. Kind, sweet. Sunshine personified. Totally gorgeous as well.
Beautiful enough to catch the eye of a billionaire collecting seven stunning men for his harem.
Having Doolin worship me won’t be a hardship. Except it will all be false. All a lie. Nothing but mating magic.
And I’m never going to forgive myself for what I’m going to have to do to him to make it happen.
Unfettered Kelpie is the second book in the Found & Freed: The Unfettered series, which follows the lives of seven paranormal boys after they escape a billionaire's harem. The books are best read in order.
Unfettered Kelpie contains hurt/comfort, an arranged mating that is like an arranged marriage, and a sunshine/ brooding pairing.
That’s what my friend Brodie wants me to do to a little kelpie.
Save a life, instead of taking one, is another thing he says.
The kelpie was imprisoned in a billionaire’s harem, the piece of work bit him, forcing a mating bond and making the kelpie believe he was in love.
The enslaver had to die, and now the kelpie is dying too. The only thing that can save him is a new mate. Except he won’t want one. I’ll have to force my mark on him. Then the kelpie mating magic will do its thing and he will become devoted to me. He will think I’m the one he loves.
Brodie says that Doolin is adorable. Kind, sweet. Sunshine personified. Totally gorgeous as well.
Beautiful enough to catch the eye of a billionaire collecting seven stunning men for his harem.
Having Doolin worship me won’t be a hardship. Except it will all be false. All a lie. Nothing but mating magic.
And I’m never going to forgive myself for what I’m going to have to do to him to make it happen.
Unfettered Kelpie is the second book in the Found & Freed: The Unfettered series, which follows the lives of seven paranormal boys after they escape a billionaire's harem. The books are best read in order.
Unfettered Kelpie contains hurt/comfort, an arranged mating that is like an arranged marriage, and a sunshine/ brooding pairing.
177 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2023
89 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
S. Rodman
37 books309 followersI love characters who are battered and broken by life, who through the course of finding love, discover they are strong.
Despite everything, because of everything, I will always believe that love conquers all.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
July 18, 2024
Rating: 3.5 Stars.
Steam: 5 out of 10.
Triggers:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Check triggers. One of the characters in this book act a little child like but nothing much.
This is a cute (but darkish book)
Every character have a book and while I started this series with book four and didn't have any major trouble I would recommend reading in order so you can absorb it.
In this book we met lello (or yellow) he was part of a forced harem and is now dying, we needs a new mating bound or he will die.
His friends arrange a new mate for him but this mate will have to force himself on him because he will not want a new mate (his body wants his old mate even if his mate is dead) but it's the only way lello gets to live.
Lello now have a new mate and was so learn a new (and free) way of thinking and see the world, he's not a slave anymore and with the help of the other boys he will get there.
Steam: 5 out of 10.
Triggers:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Check triggers. One of the characters in this book act a little child like but nothing much.
This is a cute (but darkish book)
Every character have a book and while I started this series with book four and didn't have any major trouble I would recommend reading in order so you can absorb it.
In this book we met lello (or yellow) he was part of a forced harem and is now dying, we needs a new mating bound or he will die.
His friends arrange a new mate for him but this mate will have to force himself on him because he will not want a new mate (his body wants his old mate even if his mate is dead) but it's the only way lello gets to live.
Lello now have a new mate and was so learn a new (and free) way of thinking and see the world, he's not a slave anymore and with the help of the other boys he will get there.
June 4, 2025
4.0
It was a sweet, beautiful ending. I enjoyed the story very much. I was really also bummed out like his man was that he was gonna change to please a man, but at the end it all worked out he didn’t change and they grew to love each other, which I really loved.
It was a sweet, beautiful ending. I enjoyed the story very much. I was really also bummed out like his man was that he was gonna change to please a man, but at the end it all worked out he didn’t change and they grew to love each other, which I really loved.
January 6, 2024
I mean how else does one address traumatized beings needs. I mean nookie is a universal method of healing.
September 2, 2023
I like the characters but this felt so repetitive with the he loves me/he loves me not angst. Not my jam. .
April 15, 2024
I am indeed left with more questions than answers.... mostly about the bonding mate magic and confused why anyone would want it and hows its intended to work and what purpose it serves and what the submissive person in the relationship is meant to gain from the bond - it just seems to strip them of their agency in a way??
I was also confused by the characters choices, and why we spent so much time in Carter's POV when i feel like as a reader I really needed more of Lello's input to feel ok with the whole situation.
I really liked the other two books thus far and am looking fowarded to the rest of the series but I'm just confused. You can skip this one to be honest and be fine for the rest. The third one happens at the same time as this one so you still see what happens mostly just from another characters POV.
I was also confused by the characters choices, and why we spent so much time in Carter's POV when i feel like as a reader I really needed more of Lello's input to feel ok with the whole situation.
I really liked the other two books thus far and am looking fowarded to the rest of the series but I'm just confused. You can skip this one to be honest and be fine for the rest. The third one happens at the same time as this one so you still see what happens mostly just from another characters POV.
August 31, 2023
Good
I've been waiting for Lello's story, and I'm so glad it's finally here!
Was it cute? Yes
Did it deliver Lello's story? Yes
That's really all I can say. I'm not sure what I expected honestly. I think my biggest hurdle was the lack of communication. It's, unfortunately, a trope I'm not the biggest fan of. Other than that, it was a quick, satisfying read and I'm definitely looking forward to the rest of the series.
I've been waiting for Lello's story, and I'm so glad it's finally here!
Was it cute? Yes
Did it deliver Lello's story? Yes
That's really all I can say. I'm not sure what I expected honestly. I think my biggest hurdle was the lack of communication. It's, unfortunately, a trope I'm not the biggest fan of. Other than that, it was a quick, satisfying read and I'm definitely looking forward to the rest of the series.
November 8, 2024
I guess I’ve found my new author-series addiction. Despite several issues, I recommend this for entertaining reading.
Mates/mate bonding, kelpie-human pairing, hurt-comfort, grumpy-sunshine, have sex/be claimed or die, some suspense.
I didn’t read book 1 of the series so missed how this group of found family escaped from the evil billionaire who’d collected them and kept them as a harem of sex slaves for his and his rich friends’ entertainment, and the book doesn’t entirely stand alone because of that, but, it didn’t hinder my enjoyment of this book at all. It’s far from perfect, but, the chemistry, connection, and conflict between the MCs is as addictive as it is in book 5 (the first one I read, Ned’s story/the vampire), and I ate it up again.
Kelpie shifter Lello (given name Doolin, but he no longer likes that) is dying. He was caught and forcibly mated to the evil billionaire sex slaver, loved him due to the mate bond, and wanted to do all the things he was forced to, and now that his (pure sickeningly evil) mate is dead, he too will die unless he’s claimed by a new mate. Thankfully, his loving friends have found him one.
Here’s where it gets frustrating—healer Brodie, who took care of the group and helped them escape, has asked his trusted friend Carter to be that man/mate. And we learn pretty much NOTHING about Carter. He was an enforcer…for…who? What does that mean? He’s no longer doing that, so, he’s doing…what? And, Carter feels he’s a monster and worthy of nothing at all…why? Where does that come from? He assumes Brodie chose him to do this terrible thing (forcing Lello into another mating, having to have sex even though he cannot consent, to save his life) because Brodie and everyone knows Carter is an irredeemable monster. But we get NO info at all on what Carter’s done that makes him believe that about himself. Zero. Zilch. I guess it’s in previous books? Not getting any insight, any backstory, about a main character in his own book is baffling. We do learn more about Lello due to his former kelpie herd being part of this story, but, not enough…like, who are his parents, why aren’t they involved in any of the drama? Are they dead? For that matter, does Carter have any family? If it’s mentioned, I don’t remember.
Yet, I still loved reading about Lello and Carter coming together. Carter mates Lello successfully, and Lello starts bonding, adoring, wanting to be with Carter, subsuming himself to be the perfect mate. It’s heartbreaking, because all Carter wants is for Lello to be himself, to have choices…and yet to live, Lello has to have the mate bond. And Carter’s heart breaks every time Lello looks at him with utter adoration, because he knows it’s not really Lello, it’s the bond magic making it happen. There’s a lot Carter doesn’t know about the bond, and Lello doesn’t fill him in, and there’s all kinds of push-pull tension that lights up the pages and keeps them flipping fast. Carter doesn’t want Lello to HAVE to have sex with him. Lello LOVES sex, and actually needs it for his health as a mated kelpie, and is desperately hurt any time Carter won’t be intimate with him. Over and over, they don’t fully communicate and make mistakes, yet are so adorable together you just want to squish them into a bed and say GET IT ON ALREADY! Uh. So to speak!
Lello is the sunshine, a sweetheart, people pleaser, loves his friends, is falling so hard for Carter (but is he? The tension is real!). Despite coming in part from being enslaved, his love of sex feels organic, not icky, and though my heart broke for what he went through/what shaped him that way, he was just a pure bundle of sweetness who was not afraid to demand what he wanted throughout (though I was a little squicked out by his juvenile term for it). Carter’s the grump, strong and super-protective but feeling unworthy of Lello’s affections, torn because he’s falling so hard for his mate but doesn’t know if it’s really Lello or the mate bond making Lello be what Carter wants.
Gah!
There are a couple annoying plot holes, like And, the overall paranormal leader Silas comes to check on them and makes sure the friend group’s house perimeter is super secure, completely unbreachable, and yet, HOW?!
But whatever. The romance is addictive, the storytelling and voice are addictive, and I’m going on to the next book because I. Am. Addicted.
HEA, grumpy sunshine, mate bond, hurt-comfort, PNR, have sex or die, suspense, immersive read. No cheating, no other-people interactions or drama, totally safe for me. Recommended!
Mates/mate bonding, kelpie-human pairing, hurt-comfort, grumpy-sunshine, have sex/be claimed or die, some suspense.
I didn’t read book 1 of the series so missed how this group of found family escaped from the evil billionaire who’d collected them and kept them as a harem of sex slaves for his and his rich friends’ entertainment, and the book doesn’t entirely stand alone because of that, but, it didn’t hinder my enjoyment of this book at all. It’s far from perfect, but, the chemistry, connection, and conflict between the MCs is as addictive as it is in book 5 (the first one I read, Ned’s story/the vampire), and I ate it up again.
Kelpie shifter Lello (given name Doolin, but he no longer likes that) is dying. He was caught and forcibly mated to the evil billionaire sex slaver, loved him due to the mate bond, and wanted to do all the things he was forced to, and now that his (pure sickeningly evil) mate is dead, he too will die unless he’s claimed by a new mate. Thankfully, his loving friends have found him one.
Here’s where it gets frustrating—healer Brodie, who took care of the group and helped them escape, has asked his trusted friend Carter to be that man/mate. And we learn pretty much NOTHING about Carter. He was an enforcer…for…who? What does that mean? He’s no longer doing that, so, he’s doing…what? And, Carter feels he’s a monster and worthy of nothing at all…why? Where does that come from? He assumes Brodie chose him to do this terrible thing (forcing Lello into another mating, having to have sex even though he cannot consent, to save his life) because Brodie and everyone knows Carter is an irredeemable monster. But we get NO info at all on what Carter’s done that makes him believe that about himself. Zero. Zilch. I guess it’s in previous books? Not getting any insight, any backstory, about a main character in his own book is baffling. We do learn more about Lello due to his former kelpie herd being part of this story, but, not enough…like, who are his parents, why aren’t they involved in any of the drama? Are they dead? For that matter, does Carter have any family? If it’s mentioned, I don’t remember.
Yet, I still loved reading about Lello and Carter coming together. Carter mates Lello successfully, and Lello starts bonding, adoring, wanting to be with Carter, subsuming himself to be the perfect mate. It’s heartbreaking, because all Carter wants is for Lello to be himself, to have choices…and yet to live, Lello has to have the mate bond. And Carter’s heart breaks every time Lello looks at him with utter adoration, because he knows it’s not really Lello, it’s the bond magic making it happen. There’s a lot Carter doesn’t know about the bond, and Lello doesn’t fill him in, and there’s all kinds of push-pull tension that lights up the pages and keeps them flipping fast. Carter doesn’t want Lello to HAVE to have sex with him. Lello LOVES sex, and actually needs it for his health as a mated kelpie, and is desperately hurt any time Carter won’t be intimate with him. Over and over, they don’t fully communicate and make mistakes, yet are so adorable together you just want to squish them into a bed and say GET IT ON ALREADY! Uh. So to speak!
Lello is the sunshine, a sweetheart, people pleaser, loves his friends, is falling so hard for Carter (but is he? The tension is real!). Despite coming in part from being enslaved, his love of sex feels organic, not icky, and though my heart broke for what he went through/what shaped him that way, he was just a pure bundle of sweetness who was not afraid to demand what he wanted throughout (though I was a little squicked out by his juvenile term for it). Carter’s the grump, strong and super-protective but feeling unworthy of Lello’s affections, torn because he’s falling so hard for his mate but doesn’t know if it’s really Lello or the mate bond making Lello be what Carter wants.
Gah!
There are a couple annoying plot holes, like And, the overall paranormal leader Silas comes to check on them and makes sure the friend group’s house perimeter is super secure, completely unbreachable, and yet, HOW?!
But whatever. The romance is addictive, the storytelling and voice are addictive, and I’m going on to the next book because I. Am. Addicted.
HEA, grumpy sunshine, mate bond, hurt-comfort, PNR, have sex or die, suspense, immersive read. No cheating, no other-people interactions or drama, totally safe for me. Recommended!
September 8, 2023
Changing for love
Though the boys are free from the harem they still have restrictions for them in the world. Lello seemed most at risk at the end of the last book, with his forced bond slowly killing him. The solution to that is having another mate, which is where Brodie brings in Carter.
Understandably, several of the former harem members don't like sex anymore (or perhaps never liked it). We didn't get a clear idea of whether Lello did or not since as a bonded kelpie he would only want to be with his mate but he was forced to be with so many others. Carter is lost when it comes to this. He has to bond to Lello which means that forced intimacy, but beyond that Carter feels they shouldn't have anything more as that would be continuing to force Lello back into his nightmare. But life and this situation are more complicated than that. It takes all the members of the family to realize that their relationship needs to be different from what happened in the harem, but that doesn't mean completely removing intimacy from the situation.
Really the whole relationship is complicated on both ends and it was really fascinating to read. While everyone feels forced in bringing Carter into the situation to save Lello, it seems that Carter has his own baggage. This is a new life chance for him as well and often Carter does not seem to believe that he deserves or can have happiness. Carter simply hopes that he can do some good to balance out the darkness of his life and truly doesn't imagine more for himself. At the same time Lello is bright and sunny, but he is desperate for a good bond and wants to become whatever that is to make Carter happy. He believes that means changing himself completely, and is ready for the bond to do that. This really brings up the idea of changing for a relationship, how we don't like the idea of it but how everyone does to some degree in a good relationship. It is a complicated situation that isn't easy on either man and figuring things out takes more than just some easy magic.
A great read with a fair amount of darkness and complications but always leading towards light and better times!
Though the boys are free from the harem they still have restrictions for them in the world. Lello seemed most at risk at the end of the last book, with his forced bond slowly killing him. The solution to that is having another mate, which is where Brodie brings in Carter.
Understandably, several of the former harem members don't like sex anymore (or perhaps never liked it). We didn't get a clear idea of whether Lello did or not since as a bonded kelpie he would only want to be with his mate but he was forced to be with so many others. Carter is lost when it comes to this. He has to bond to Lello which means that forced intimacy, but beyond that Carter feels they shouldn't have anything more as that would be continuing to force Lello back into his nightmare. But life and this situation are more complicated than that. It takes all the members of the family to realize that their relationship needs to be different from what happened in the harem, but that doesn't mean completely removing intimacy from the situation.
Really the whole relationship is complicated on both ends and it was really fascinating to read. While everyone feels forced in bringing Carter into the situation to save Lello, it seems that Carter has his own baggage. This is a new life chance for him as well and often Carter does not seem to believe that he deserves or can have happiness. Carter simply hopes that he can do some good to balance out the darkness of his life and truly doesn't imagine more for himself. At the same time Lello is bright and sunny, but he is desperate for a good bond and wants to become whatever that is to make Carter happy. He believes that means changing himself completely, and is ready for the bond to do that. This really brings up the idea of changing for a relationship, how we don't like the idea of it but how everyone does to some degree in a good relationship. It is a complicated situation that isn't easy on either man and figuring things out takes more than just some easy magic.
A great read with a fair amount of darkness and complications but always leading towards light and better times!
August 28, 2023
Another one of Rodman's books that I read in a single sitting because I just couldn't put it down. There are definitely triggers in this, so make sure you check the warnings. There was so much emotion in this book. I love that all these characters are constantly looking after each other and they are never selfish. There's plenty of angst in this book. A lot of it is external, but the angst between the main characters really comes from them not thinking they are what the other needs.
Lello has an absolutely tragic past, and losing his captor is literally killing him. But he still tries so hard to be his sweet sunshiny self and everything Carter wants. Carter is just worried about keeping Lello happy and second guesses if he is really the right person for the job. There's a good amount of heat and chemistry between the MCs. They definitely have some communication issues, but they are there for each other when it counts.
This was a great read for me. It was on the darker side of what I like to read, but I couldn't stop reading. A great combination of emotion, angst, and heat with a bit of action thrown in as well. I love that we got to see more of Red, Brodie, and the rest of the boys too. Absolutely cannot wait for the next book in the series!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Lello has an absolutely tragic past, and losing his captor is literally killing him. But he still tries so hard to be his sweet sunshiny self and everything Carter wants. Carter is just worried about keeping Lello happy and second guesses if he is really the right person for the job. There's a good amount of heat and chemistry between the MCs. They definitely have some communication issues, but they are there for each other when it counts.
This was a great read for me. It was on the darker side of what I like to read, but I couldn't stop reading. A great combination of emotion, angst, and heat with a bit of action thrown in as well. I love that we got to see more of Red, Brodie, and the rest of the boys too. Absolutely cannot wait for the next book in the series!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion.
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March 24, 2024This one I stopped and reread whenever I hit those places that annoed me and paid attention to what I think is keeping this series from being really good.
The first thing was there is a sh!# ton of internal monologue that goes around in circles self blaming - indecisive - can't make up your mind crap. I get it! The character is conflicted - but way too much.
The second part is the repetitive aspect of the writing. . Again too much! Once or twice, but this is frequent. An example is the following "I spread him wide. I fill him. Take him. Claim him. His body accepts my invasion. The way he clenches around me feels like he is sucking me in greedily. He wants me inside of him. He craves my cock. He wants to embrace it with his soft silken heat." Please - make the point and move on. Again this is not once or twice in the book, but frequently. Within a few pages we get "Everything before me looks too incredible to be real, including Lello. I have to be dreaming. This ethereal moment has no place in reality. It is all too stunning to be true."
What is left is an okay story buried in chunks of poor writing - this person needs s few Beta readers who will honestly give feedback and ideas.
The first thing was there is a sh!# ton of internal monologue that goes around in circles self blaming - indecisive - can't make up your mind crap. I get it! The character is conflicted - but way too much.
The second part is the repetitive aspect of the writing. . Again too much! Once or twice, but this is frequent. An example is the following "I spread him wide. I fill him. Take him. Claim him. His body accepts my invasion. The way he clenches around me feels like he is sucking me in greedily. He wants me inside of him. He craves my cock. He wants to embrace it with his soft silken heat." Please - make the point and move on. Again this is not once or twice in the book, but frequently. Within a few pages we get "Everything before me looks too incredible to be real, including Lello. I have to be dreaming. This ethereal moment has no place in reality. It is all too stunning to be true."
What is left is an okay story buried in chunks of poor writing - this person needs s few Beta readers who will honestly give feedback and ideas.
July 18, 2024
What a ride. There is much more relationship angst, some paranormal world angst, but so much love and swoon.
So, the book definitely does not begin with sunshine and unicorns. The relationship starts with a heavy dub-con situation that is off-page. But I must say, Carter really redeemed himself in my eyes. He lacks confidence in his goodness, but he proves it with his actions, even though these actions result in lots of push and pull and hesitancy. There is definitely a lack of communication but I still survived and loved it.
Lello was so cute and sweet, but also a bundle of nerves. I got everything I wished for from these two and more. The found family is strong, and both MCs interact with them and strengthen their bonds.
And I cannot wait for Grey's book next.
Bonus epilogue: (from the author's newsletter link) Sweet and funny short with the boys and their domestic shenanigans.
Series rating:
Unfettered Omega: 5*
Unfettered Kelpie: 5*
Unfettered Demon: TBR
Unfettered Siren: TBR
So, the book definitely does not begin with sunshine and unicorns. The relationship starts with a heavy dub-con situation that is off-page. But I must say, Carter really redeemed himself in my eyes. He lacks confidence in his goodness, but he proves it with his actions, even though these actions result in lots of push and pull and hesitancy. There is definitely a lack of communication but I still survived and loved it.
Lello was so cute and sweet, but also a bundle of nerves. I got everything I wished for from these two and more. The found family is strong, and both MCs interact with them and strengthen their bonds.
And I cannot wait for Grey's book next.
Bonus epilogue: (from the author's newsletter link) Sweet and funny short with the boys and their domestic shenanigans.
Series rating:
Unfettered Omega: 5*
Unfettered Kelpie: 5*
Unfettered Demon: TBR
Unfettered Siren: TBR
September 2, 2023
4.5 stars
This is book 2 in the series. I would highly recommend reading book 1.
I absolutely love the found family aspect of this book.
Sweet, innocent Lello/Doolin had a mating bond forced on him by a nasty pos. Now that the bond is broken, he is dying. His family is desperate to save him so they need to find someone to force a new bond. Carter is troubled by his past as an Enforcer, he's knows forcing a bond isn't a nice thing to do, but it is necessary, and he's hoping some good will come of it. Both men are drawn to each other, but there are doubts, questions, and insecurities. If they would have opened up and spoken honestly, there would have been a lot less angst. While trying to figure things out, there is danger lurking.
This book was engaging from the first page to the last, it is full of intriguing characters, and there is plenty of steam that's balanced with an abundance of heart. Lello and Carter have a bumpy journey, but they do find a genuine love and a sweetly satisfying HEA.
I would definitely recommend this series.
This is book 2 in the series. I would highly recommend reading book 1.
I absolutely love the found family aspect of this book.
Sweet, innocent Lello/Doolin had a mating bond forced on him by a nasty pos. Now that the bond is broken, he is dying. His family is desperate to save him so they need to find someone to force a new bond. Carter is troubled by his past as an Enforcer, he's knows forcing a bond isn't a nice thing to do, but it is necessary, and he's hoping some good will come of it. Both men are drawn to each other, but there are doubts, questions, and insecurities. If they would have opened up and spoken honestly, there would have been a lot less angst. While trying to figure things out, there is danger lurking.
This book was engaging from the first page to the last, it is full of intriguing characters, and there is plenty of steam that's balanced with an abundance of heart. Lello and Carter have a bumpy journey, but they do find a genuine love and a sweetly satisfying HEA.
I would definitely recommend this series.
August 29, 2023
I highly recommend reading book one Unfettered Omega first because you may miss important background information.
Doolin/Lello is fading away fast and the only way to save him his a forced bond.
Carter is an ex Enforcer so he agrees in order to save Lello.
There was lots of miscommunications on both sides and also just deliberate withholding of information that led to situations which could have easily been resolved.
Carter continuously makes mistakes because he doesn't trust himself or Lello to truly know his mind.
Lello constantly asking for nooky was cute but also serves a purpose, he just doesn't know how to explain it to Carter.
I did love seeing how fiercely protective Carter was of Lello and how beautiful the bond between them was once it was actually established.
There was some fast paced action and danger as a threat to Lello occurs but it was well resolved.
I loved getting to see glimpses of the others, their potential mates and I just love their found family.
Doolin/Lello is fading away fast and the only way to save him his a forced bond.
Carter is an ex Enforcer so he agrees in order to save Lello.
There was lots of miscommunications on both sides and also just deliberate withholding of information that led to situations which could have easily been resolved.
Carter continuously makes mistakes because he doesn't trust himself or Lello to truly know his mind.
Lello constantly asking for nooky was cute but also serves a purpose, he just doesn't know how to explain it to Carter.
I did love seeing how fiercely protective Carter was of Lello and how beautiful the bond between them was once it was actually established.
There was some fast paced action and danger as a threat to Lello occurs but it was well resolved.
I loved getting to see glimpses of the others, their potential mates and I just love their found family.
August 30, 2023
As soon as book 1 (Unfettered Omega) finished I knew I wasn't going to rest comfy until we knew what happened to innocent kelpie Lello; his story in book 1 was so traumatic and he was so very very precious, so I was thrilled when Unfettered Kelpie was announced as the next in the series. Going in I had no idea how they were going to resolve the seemingly impossible situation of Lello's mating bond that is the opening setting for the book, and I won't say much for fear of spoilers but I thought it was brilliantly resolved into the HEA Lello so desperately deserved. Like all this author's books, Unfettered Kelpie is full of heat and heart, and I love the way the characters have flaws and snark and never fail to capture your love. Start with book 1 and get ready to devour the rest of the rainbow as they come out.
September 2, 2023
Unfettered Kelpie - Broken Chains of the Past
‘Pleasure, euphoria and ecstasy are running through my veins and filling my lungs. I have ceased to exist and now am only pure love and joy and devotion, and I never, ever want it to end. This is my heaven.’
S. Rodman is one of my favorite MM Paranormal authors, and Unfettered Kelpie and the Found and Freed series is just one reason.
Human Carter, a retired Magical Enforcer, is entrusted with the care of our poor dying Lello, who must be mate marked to survive. Each have their own cultural pasts, and Lello’s past abuse, that make it unclear to them that they care deeply for the other.
Through much trial and error, and decidedly sweet moments that still involve Lello’s favorite, Nooky, challenges are overcome and enemies are thwarted so these two beautiful souls can find eternal happiness together.
‘Pleasure, euphoria and ecstasy are running through my veins and filling my lungs. I have ceased to exist and now am only pure love and joy and devotion, and I never, ever want it to end. This is my heaven.’
S. Rodman is one of my favorite MM Paranormal authors, and Unfettered Kelpie and the Found and Freed series is just one reason.
Human Carter, a retired Magical Enforcer, is entrusted with the care of our poor dying Lello, who must be mate marked to survive. Each have their own cultural pasts, and Lello’s past abuse, that make it unclear to them that they care deeply for the other.
Through much trial and error, and decidedly sweet moments that still involve Lello’s favorite, Nooky, challenges are overcome and enemies are thwarted so these two beautiful souls can find eternal happiness together.
August 10, 2024
SUNSHINE AND MAGIC!!!😍😍😍
Thank you S. Rodman for telling Kelly's story! 😁 Sunshine and magic indeed! My heart sped up from the beginning sentence and did not let up until the very end! Wow! S. Rodman did it again! Lello is such a sexy, sweet Kelpie. Captured and enslaved by a sadistic billionaire...( read first book first!!!)...hasn't diminished his spirit. But he is still in danger and a last ditch effort is all there is left to try. Carter is called to try and save Lello. He wants to save him and become his mate even though he has no idea what any of this entails. I mean really, no one actually knows too much about the Kelpie race...so, yeah! Let's try it. Carter is enchanted from the moment he sees Lello.😍😘🤗 This is the second installment and reading in order is recommended. This story is as well constructed as the first. The characters pull you in, grab whole of your feels, and will not let you go!! And hit is well worth the ride!!!😎😋
Thank you S. Rodman for telling Kelly's story! 😁 Sunshine and magic indeed! My heart sped up from the beginning sentence and did not let up until the very end! Wow! S. Rodman did it again! Lello is such a sexy, sweet Kelpie. Captured and enslaved by a sadistic billionaire...( read first book first!!!)...hasn't diminished his spirit. But he is still in danger and a last ditch effort is all there is left to try. Carter is called to try and save Lello. He wants to save him and become his mate even though he has no idea what any of this entails. I mean really, no one actually knows too much about the Kelpie race...so, yeah! Let's try it. Carter is enchanted from the moment he sees Lello.😍😘🤗 This is the second installment and reading in order is recommended. This story is as well constructed as the first. The characters pull you in, grab whole of your feels, and will not let you go!! And hit is well worth the ride!!!😎😋
August 18, 2024
Kelpie Lello was imprisoned in a billionaire’s harem, the piece of work bit him, forcing a mating bond and making the kelpie believe he was in love. The enslaver had to die, and now the kelpie is dying too. The only thing that can save him is a new mate. Except he won’t want one. Carter will have to do something against his beliefs and force his mark on him. Then the kelpie mating magic will do its thing and he will become devoted to him. He will think Carter is the one he loves. Brodie says that Lello is adorable. Kind, sweet. Sunshine personified. Gorgeous as well.
I enjoyed this story as Carter hated himself for forcing himself on Lelo to save him. The angst did gat a bit much at times and I did feel so desperately sorry for Lello at times as his mate appeared quite pathetic at times. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I enjoyed this story as Carter hated himself for forcing himself on Lelo to save him. The angst did gat a bit much at times and I did feel so desperately sorry for Lello at times as his mate appeared quite pathetic at times. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
August 25, 2023
Doolin, or Lello, needs a new mate bond to replace the one from the evil man who kept him and the others as sex slaves or he will die. Carter feels like he has a chance to do something good in his life by saving him, even if he feels awful for forcing himself on the poor kelpie. This book was full of feels. S Rodman knows how to craft characters that can find the sunshine and the brightness in even the darkest of situations. Carter doubts himself and acts like Lello doesn’t know his own mind. He struggles with his own feelings and seems to forget Lello is not a child. Lello is stronger than Carter gives him credit for. I really enjoyed this book and am seriously invested in all of these guys finding happiness. (The cameos of Silas don’t hurt either. I still love Silas!)
August 27, 2023
Ao happy to get the second book in this series as loved the first and the concept. What I love most about Sez is the “getting straight into it” writing where you are thrown in, first page the story starts and keeps that rhythm, never slowing down and I enjoy that.
Our beautiful lello, my heart broke for him in first book but it was put back together in this. I loved the direction Sez took his character, forward thinking and positive and finding fulfilment and enjoyment of being wanted and having that sexual connection.
Poor Carter was in such a position and it was handled well. Having to claim Doolin to save him but also unsure whether to read the signs of want were from the claiming or natural. I really liked him. Cannot wait for more in this series.
Our beautiful lello, my heart broke for him in first book but it was put back together in this. I loved the direction Sez took his character, forward thinking and positive and finding fulfilment and enjoyment of being wanted and having that sexual connection.
Poor Carter was in such a position and it was handled well. Having to claim Doolin to save him but also unsure whether to read the signs of want were from the claiming or natural. I really liked him. Cannot wait for more in this series.
August 28, 2023
Lello was very damaged by his time in the harem, and it was hard to see how he could have a happy future, so I was really keen to see how the author would handle this. Well, I wasn’t disappointed! This is a beautiful story, with some heart-wrenching moments, but I felt all lingering concerns regarding Lello were resolved. Lello is both vulnerable and strong at the same time, and Carter struggles with trying to do the right thing and what he instinctively wants (Lello). It’s a bumpy road but Lello does get his HEA, with help and love from Carter, his friends, and others. I can’t wait for the next books in this series. All the boys from the harem need their HEAs!
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book and this is a voluntary review.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book and this is a voluntary review.
September 4, 2023
This is the second book of the Unfettered series, following Unfettered Omega. Our Rainbow is now free, but sweet kelpie, Lello, or Doolin, is dying because of the mate-bond he had with the billionaire that had kept them all captive. Enter Carter, former enforcer and human, to help. This was a sweet and fun story, yet also plenty of action to keep it interesting. Lello's forays into the human world were adorable and Carter is his perfect mate. There a few moments that really broke my heart, but overall it was a sappy smile kind of story.
September 11, 2023
Love this unexpected MC
Even though I met Lello in the last book his character in this book is delightfully unexpected. He’s a victim of the harem and the awful things done and it seems he should be a victim of a horrible type of mating bond magic. And he is. But he’s also incredibly strong and resilient. He knows what he wants and what he likes. And he’s not afraid to be a bit bossy.
We don’t get a lot of background on Carter. But he’s a killer and thinks of himself as a monster. And yet he’s so invested in Lello being able to be his own person. He doesn’t see how amazing he is himself. All he knows is he has to fight for Lello even if it’s himself he’s fighting.
These two have a lot to work out. But their HEA is perfect.
Even though I met Lello in the last book his character in this book is delightfully unexpected. He’s a victim of the harem and the awful things done and it seems he should be a victim of a horrible type of mating bond magic. And he is. But he’s also incredibly strong and resilient. He knows what he wants and what he likes. And he’s not afraid to be a bit bossy.
We don’t get a lot of background on Carter. But he’s a killer and thinks of himself as a monster. And yet he’s so invested in Lello being able to be his own person. He doesn’t see how amazing he is himself. All he knows is he has to fight for Lello even if it’s himself he’s fighting.
These two have a lot to work out. But their HEA is perfect.
July 22, 2024
This story was sweet and intense and heartrending, a little bit more than the first one. I already loved Lello, his sweet and idealistic nature and how he loves with his whole heart. Carter, once he'd gotten through his own obstacles, was the right man for him who was caring and protective. We see them having different outings in public and then getting closer at home. The scenes when Lello wakes up, wanting Carter and Carter returns, saying sorry for leaving felt jarring, we could all feel Lello's discomfort at waking up alone. But, in the end, it turned out well. Overall, I liked the story that developed because they start together as mates and end up being both mates and falling in love with each other.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2024
"Unfettered Kelpie" received THREE AND A HALF stars.
Carter’s back and forth I’m-not-good-for-him-but-I-want-him was a bit annoying after a while.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
1/2 * gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
* gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."
Carter’s back and forth I’m-not-good-for-him-but-I-want-him was a bit annoying after a while.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
1/2 * gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
* gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."
March 22, 2025
2.5 Stars
I think the premise of this was good. Mate bonds that literally change one of the mates, great idea. However, I don’t think this was explored enough in the actual story. The story itself felt kind of disjointed, maybe and the conflict seemed a bit forced. Especially considering it was either reused from the last of the vessel books or that was reused from it ( either way that book was significantly better in my opinion, if you even had mildly good feelings towards this book go read that on). Overall, it had nothing really going for it and nothing against it so 2.5 stars rounded down since I was a bit annoyed about the plot and the lack of mate bound exploration. If you’re going to be dark, commit to it.
I think the premise of this was good. Mate bonds that literally change one of the mates, great idea. However, I don’t think this was explored enough in the actual story. The story itself felt kind of disjointed, maybe and the conflict seemed a bit forced. Especially considering it was either reused from the last of the vessel books or that was reused from it ( either way that book was significantly better in my opinion, if you even had mildly good feelings towards this book go read that on). Overall, it had nothing really going for it and nothing against it so 2.5 stars rounded down since I was a bit annoyed about the plot and the lack of mate bound exploration. If you’re going to be dark, commit to it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2023
I love Rodman’s work! I binged the first book so I had context for this one as an ARC reader and Lello was the character I wanted more insights into and we get a good perspective on his mindset and what drives him and this book definitely gives us that. His mate didn’t have as much development(backstory) as I would like, but I understand the focus is on the harem. There is so much angst on both sides that could be solved with a wee bit of communication but that keeps you turning pages! I love how the blended family comes together and goes to bat for one another and are all determined to find their HPE. I can’t wait for the next book!
August 27, 2023
Carter is called to save Lello's life and enters into a mating with him that is complicated, made more so by the feelings growing between them.
What I really liked was how moral Carter tried to be. He acknowledged the issue of consent, Lello has to have a mate bond, or he will die, but that isn't a real choice. He tries to be good to Lello but hurts both their feelings in the process.
Lello is fairly pragmatic over it all, allowing the bonding magic to do its thing and not overthinking it. Yes, he's slightly damaged after his harem days, but he's focused on his future.
Plenty of steamy times, a fast pace, and a super sweet ending
What I really liked was how moral Carter tried to be. He acknowledged the issue of consent, Lello has to have a mate bond, or he will die, but that isn't a real choice. He tries to be good to Lello but hurts both their feelings in the process.
Lello is fairly pragmatic over it all, allowing the bonding magic to do its thing and not overthinking it. Yes, he's slightly damaged after his harem days, but he's focused on his future.
Plenty of steamy times, a fast pace, and a super sweet ending
August 27, 2023
Carter must give Doolin a mating bite to save the kelpie's life. You should read the "Unfettered Omega" first to know what's happening in this book. I love the series, with the harem victims being truly bonded and looking out for each other. Carter can't be sure if Doolin (Lello) really cares for him or the mating bond is forcing him to. It's painful to see how much Carter cares for him but doesn't want to force him. Lello is such a beautiful and pure soul, he just wants to be loved. Their happiness together is so sweet and joyful. I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.
October 25, 2024
I should have stopped at book one.
I should have stopped the first time I realized that there was no way I could believe that this main character is supposed to be in his 40s.
I should have stopped when Lello is revealed to have a Disney Princess bedroom and still doesn't speak aloud in an age-appropriate manner.
I should have stopped when it became increasingly apparent that this author has made the choice to forego the use of contractions, making the dialogue stilted, difficult to read, and even worse - made the characters' voices indiscernible from one another.
Nonetheless, I persisted, and I finished it. I won't be making the same mistake twice.
I should have stopped the first time I realized that there was no way I could believe that this main character is supposed to be in his 40s.
I should have stopped when Lello is revealed to have a Disney Princess bedroom and still doesn't speak aloud in an age-appropriate manner.
I should have stopped when it became increasingly apparent that this author has made the choice to forego the use of contractions, making the dialogue stilted, difficult to read, and even worse - made the characters' voices indiscernible from one another.
Nonetheless, I persisted, and I finished it. I won't be making the same mistake twice.
June 29, 2025
Another great story
Lello always had a positive and happy attitude, even while being held in the harem. It broke my heart because Lello was the one who was treated the worst by Richie and his friends. From book one, I’ve felt so deeply for him. After years of captivity, the boys are finally free, but freedom comes at a cost. Lello is dying. Without a new mate, he won’t survive. That’s when Brodie reaches out to his friend Carter.
Carter agrees to help, not realizing he’d end up falling in love with Lello.
This series has such an emotional grip on me. I love these books and can’t wait to read the rest!
Lello always had a positive and happy attitude, even while being held in the harem. It broke my heart because Lello was the one who was treated the worst by Richie and his friends. From book one, I’ve felt so deeply for him. After years of captivity, the boys are finally free, but freedom comes at a cost. Lello is dying. Without a new mate, he won’t survive. That’s when Brodie reaches out to his friend Carter.
Carter agrees to help, not realizing he’d end up falling in love with Lello.
This series has such an emotional grip on me. I love these books and can’t wait to read the rest!
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