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The Binding Chronicles #4
Troubled
He’s a halfling yearning for adventure. She’s the vampire trying to keep him safe.
Marius Wisethorn, Prince of Eleyta, has always wanted one thing: adventure. One night, the perfect opportunity falls in his lap. He intercepts a message about a feral, ancient vampire that has escaped its tomb, and he comes up with the perfect plan. He'll track down the First and kill it, proving to his sister that he’s ready to explore the world.
Vivienne Beaumont never expected her job as the halfling prince’s bodyguard to be so much work. She’s been a soldier for a century, and this should have been easy in comparison. She's wrong, though. The prince runs away on her first night, and suddenly, the blood vow she took to keep him safe mocks her. In an effort to keep him safe, she joins him on his foolish mission to stop the First.
He’s a magnet for trouble. She’s just trying to keep him (and herself) alive. Neither expects to find love along the way.
This is a standalone fantasy romance that takes place after Tethered, Tormented, and Treasured. It can be read on its own, but is best read after the trilogy.
Marius Wisethorn, Prince of Eleyta, has always wanted one thing: adventure. One night, the perfect opportunity falls in his lap. He intercepts a message about a feral, ancient vampire that has escaped its tomb, and he comes up with the perfect plan. He'll track down the First and kill it, proving to his sister that he’s ready to explore the world.
Vivienne Beaumont never expected her job as the halfling prince’s bodyguard to be so much work. She’s been a soldier for a century, and this should have been easy in comparison. She's wrong, though. The prince runs away on her first night, and suddenly, the blood vow she took to keep him safe mocks her. In an effort to keep him safe, she joins him on his foolish mission to stop the First.
He’s a magnet for trouble. She’s just trying to keep him (and herself) alive. Neither expects to find love along the way.
This is a standalone fantasy romance that takes place after Tethered, Tormented, and Treasured. It can be read on its own, but is best read after the trilogy.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2024
895 people are currently reading
9968 people want to read
About the author
Elayna R. Gallea
32 books2,077 followersElayna Gallea lives in beautiful New Brunswick, Canada with her husband and two kids. They have dogs and cats and enjoy touring their beautiful province whenever they can.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
December 4, 2024
I received this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. I tend to do things backwards at times, I read this book first instead of the first 3 books. 🤷🏼♀️ To me, it can act as a standalone. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and can’t wait to read the other 3 books. Vivienne and Marius has a forbidden love romance with the perfect amount of banter. A must read!
February 16, 2025
This is the fourth and final book of the Binding Chronicles series. This is considered a YA series- so no smut or spice- just a good story that keeps you reading.
The first three books were Luna and Sebastian’s story- this is the story of Luna’s brother, Marius, grown up, setting out on his own adventure with a new bodyguard, Vivienne, in tow, trying to keep him out of trouble. Come to find out, one of the first vampires has awoken from a curse to take over and only a non-vampire can kill her- so Marius gets his adventure.
I loved the first three books of the series- I liked this one because it was a continuation of the characters and the world I had just read about. But…Marius is no Sebastian.
The first three books were Luna and Sebastian’s story- this is the story of Luna’s brother, Marius, grown up, setting out on his own adventure with a new bodyguard, Vivienne, in tow, trying to keep him out of trouble. Come to find out, one of the first vampires has awoken from a curse to take over and only a non-vampire can kill her- so Marius gets his adventure.
I loved the first three books of the series- I liked this one because it was a continuation of the characters and the world I had just read about. But…Marius is no Sebastian.
November 3, 2024
“It was so unfair that this frustrating man for whom she could have absolutely no feelings was so handsome.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
Author: Elayna R. Gallea
Publisher: Independently Published
Series: The Binding Chronicles
Release Date: 4th November 2024
What you’ll find in this book:
- Slow Burn
- He’s a Magnet for Trouble
- Forbidden Romance
- Quests
- She’s more powerful than him
- Ancient Evils have Awoken
- Biting
- Dragons
Oh Elayna, I love your books so much! It’s no secret that I have a very special place in my heart for the Binding Chronicles, and it was such an absolute joy to go back to Eleyta in this standalone bodyguard x prince forbidden romance. Having already met Marius in the previous books, I was so excited to read a book where we explore him more as a character and how he does very much get himself into a whole heap of trouble. This book is perfect for lovers of forbidden romance, where there’s a plentiful amount of yearning and the vibes are very much bodyguard x unruly prince, where’s he’s trying to claim his freedom and she’s trying to prevent him from getting himself killed.
As aforementioned this book follows Marius as he decides it’s a wise idea to take his opportunity at freedom in the form of tracking down an ancient and very feral vampire that has escaped its entombment, and his bodyguard Vivienne who forced it to travelling with him in order to keep him safe. Vivienne expecting her new assignment guarding the prince to be easy, doesn’t realise what she is in for and how much harder sticking to her new blood vow is going to be. However, after getting into issue after issue things start to shift between these two into something more than just a duty bound guard and a trouble magnet prince.
I absolutely love Marius and Vivienne as a pair, their quips and banter is absolutely fabulous. Where Marius is slightly more cheeky and plays on his charms, Vivienne is serious and cautious. They balance each other in terms of personalities in the most fabulous of ways and means that their interactions are nothing short of being both funny and incredibly emotional. Elayna has an amazing skill of getting you completely invested in her wonderful characters and these two were no exception, reading as their relationship developed and shifted was magnificent. I also adored it when during the book we got to meet returning characters from the series, it just gives you the most beautiful nostalgia.
The plot for me felt well rounded and the book well paced, we got to where we were going in a timely manner and this meant I read the book in one sitting. When I started the book it took me a minute to become accustomed to what was going on and what the issue was at hand, but once I did everyone clicked into place in a satisfying way. Elayna knows exactly how to tug at your heart strings and this book was no exception, I cried, just as I expected I would. Also, that ending was stunning and truly so fitting, I wish I could read it all over again for the first time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
Author: Elayna R. Gallea
Publisher: Independently Published
Series: The Binding Chronicles
Release Date: 4th November 2024
What you’ll find in this book:
- Slow Burn
- He’s a Magnet for Trouble
- Forbidden Romance
- Quests
- She’s more powerful than him
- Ancient Evils have Awoken
- Biting
- Dragons
Oh Elayna, I love your books so much! It’s no secret that I have a very special place in my heart for the Binding Chronicles, and it was such an absolute joy to go back to Eleyta in this standalone bodyguard x prince forbidden romance. Having already met Marius in the previous books, I was so excited to read a book where we explore him more as a character and how he does very much get himself into a whole heap of trouble. This book is perfect for lovers of forbidden romance, where there’s a plentiful amount of yearning and the vibes are very much bodyguard x unruly prince, where’s he’s trying to claim his freedom and she’s trying to prevent him from getting himself killed.
As aforementioned this book follows Marius as he decides it’s a wise idea to take his opportunity at freedom in the form of tracking down an ancient and very feral vampire that has escaped its entombment, and his bodyguard Vivienne who forced it to travelling with him in order to keep him safe. Vivienne expecting her new assignment guarding the prince to be easy, doesn’t realise what she is in for and how much harder sticking to her new blood vow is going to be. However, after getting into issue after issue things start to shift between these two into something more than just a duty bound guard and a trouble magnet prince.
I absolutely love Marius and Vivienne as a pair, their quips and banter is absolutely fabulous. Where Marius is slightly more cheeky and plays on his charms, Vivienne is serious and cautious. They balance each other in terms of personalities in the most fabulous of ways and means that their interactions are nothing short of being both funny and incredibly emotional. Elayna has an amazing skill of getting you completely invested in her wonderful characters and these two were no exception, reading as their relationship developed and shifted was magnificent. I also adored it when during the book we got to meet returning characters from the series, it just gives you the most beautiful nostalgia.
The plot for me felt well rounded and the book well paced, we got to where we were going in a timely manner and this meant I read the book in one sitting. When I started the book it took me a minute to become accustomed to what was going on and what the issue was at hand, but once I did everyone clicked into place in a satisfying way. Elayna knows exactly how to tug at your heart strings and this book was no exception, I cried, just as I expected I would. Also, that ending was stunning and truly so fitting, I wish I could read it all over again for the first time.
October 4, 2024
I received this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Overall, this was a really good story and the perfect ending to the Tethered Chronicles. It wrapped up the story for all the characters really well, and the final scene was really just the cherry on top!
I identified with Viv so much, her constant exasperation and grumbling with Marius - it kind of reminded me of how I am with my partner sometimes, when he gets super excited about something and then takes us on a 2 hour detour! Her whole attitude was such a vibe and I feel she and I could be great friends.
Marius gives such younger brother energy it’s unbelievable! He’s young, stupid and does not anticipate consequences (despite being able to literally see the future!) of his actions until it’s way too late. He does grow over the course of the story, though, so he is redeemed!
I knew this was going to be a slow burn, but the further I was getting into the story, the more apprehensive I got about potential spicy scenes. As a reader, we’re introduced to Marius when he’s a literal child. So he’s a bit like your best friend’s little brother, and let's be honest, no one wants to think about their best friend’s little brother getting it on! Elanya dealt with it very tastefully and respectfully - I won’t spoil it, but rest assured, there’s no ick factor!
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed it and will continue to read Elayna’s work and plan to work through her other series over the next few years.
Overall, this was a really good story and the perfect ending to the Tethered Chronicles. It wrapped up the story for all the characters really well, and the final scene was really just the cherry on top!
I identified with Viv so much, her constant exasperation and grumbling with Marius - it kind of reminded me of how I am with my partner sometimes, when he gets super excited about something and then takes us on a 2 hour detour! Her whole attitude was such a vibe and I feel she and I could be great friends.
Marius gives such younger brother energy it’s unbelievable! He’s young, stupid and does not anticipate consequences (despite being able to literally see the future!) of his actions until it’s way too late. He does grow over the course of the story, though, so he is redeemed!
I knew this was going to be a slow burn, but the further I was getting into the story, the more apprehensive I got about potential spicy scenes. As a reader, we’re introduced to Marius when he’s a literal child. So he’s a bit like your best friend’s little brother, and let's be honest, no one wants to think about their best friend’s little brother getting it on! Elanya dealt with it very tastefully and respectfully - I won’t spoil it, but rest assured, there’s no ick factor!
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed it and will continue to read Elayna’s work and plan to work through her other series over the next few years.
January 26, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
This was a really cute story about Marius and the adventures he still wants to go on.
In comparison to Luna and Sebastian, this fell a little flat for me because I think I wanted more romance between them.
They denied their feelings for so long and it was Marius who couldn’t keep his hands to himself after they kissed.
There was a lot going on but I’m glad he got his adventure and found love as well.
I almost wish I could have gotten to know Marius a little more because I still feel as though I don’t know him enough.
It was nice to still have Luna and Sebastian around since they are a big part of his life. In all, it was a good conclusion and I’m glad everyone got a happily ever after!
This was a really cute story about Marius and the adventures he still wants to go on.
In comparison to Luna and Sebastian, this fell a little flat for me because I think I wanted more romance between them.
They denied their feelings for so long and it was Marius who couldn’t keep his hands to himself after they kissed.
There was a lot going on but I’m glad he got his adventure and found love as well.
I almost wish I could have gotten to know Marius a little more because I still feel as though I don’t know him enough.
It was nice to still have Luna and Sebastian around since they are a big part of his life. In all, it was a good conclusion and I’m glad everyone got a happily ever after!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2024
Full disclosure - I did NOT read the first three books in this series - BUT I really enjoyed this story! Even though it is book #4, I would absolutely say it can act as a standalone novel.
Marius is a prince who has been kept on a short leash his entire life. When he sees an opportunity for freedom and adventure, he leaps at the chance....annnnnd doesn't really think things through beforehand. He has absolute puppy vibes, all bounding, tail wagging energy, with not much going on in terms of planning and preparation...which, understandably, leads to some dangerous situations.
Vivienne is a MUCH older vampire (much older than Marius at least) and has been assigned as his bodyguard - before she's even been introduced to the Prince, he runs away, and she's forced between a rock and a hard place - on one hand, her blood vow to keep him safe, and on the other hand, the fear that the King will rip her apart when he finds out she left him alone to report his attempt at sneaking off.
I really enjoyed the fact that the bodyguard was the female MC in this book, and the Prince was a bit hopeless (if only at first). The trope is usually reversed, and same with the age difference - usually you have an older MMC, and a younger FMC, when the opposite was true in "Troubled."
There is lot of internal dialog by each character, and it does trend towards repetitive at times, however I enjoyed the storyline/action and adventure so much it didn't really detract from the overall view of the book.
I will definitely be checking out more books by this author!
I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I'm writing a review voluntarily.
Marius is a prince who has been kept on a short leash his entire life. When he sees an opportunity for freedom and adventure, he leaps at the chance....annnnnd doesn't really think things through beforehand. He has absolute puppy vibes, all bounding, tail wagging energy, with not much going on in terms of planning and preparation...which, understandably, leads to some dangerous situations.
Vivienne is a MUCH older vampire (much older than Marius at least) and has been assigned as his bodyguard - before she's even been introduced to the Prince, he runs away, and she's forced between a rock and a hard place - on one hand, her blood vow to keep him safe, and on the other hand, the fear that the King will rip her apart when he finds out she left him alone to report his attempt at sneaking off.
I really enjoyed the fact that the bodyguard was the female MC in this book, and the Prince was a bit hopeless (if only at first). The trope is usually reversed, and same with the age difference - usually you have an older MMC, and a younger FMC, when the opposite was true in "Troubled."
There is lot of internal dialog by each character, and it does trend towards repetitive at times, however I enjoyed the storyline/action and adventure so much it didn't really detract from the overall view of the book.
I will definitely be checking out more books by this author!
I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I'm writing a review voluntarily.
October 31, 2024
Thank you to the author for the opportunity for the ARC of this book.
I have followed all the other books in this universe so I was very happy to follow along another couple. I love Vivienne and Marius! A great forbidden love mixed in adventure. I loved their banter. Great read!
I have followed all the other books in this universe so I was very happy to follow along another couple. I love Vivienne and Marius! A great forbidden love mixed in adventure. I loved their banter. Great read!
October 4, 2024
So happy to get an ARC for this and revisit my two favorite vampires! I loved the original trilogy with Luna and Sebastian so to be able to get a glimpse of them while getting Marius’ story was wonderful!
The book did start off slow, but definitely picked up. I love Vivienne and her sassiness and how well she paired with Marius. Overall it was a wonderful addition to this world and who can say no to more vampires? Especially when it ends with happily ever after. I did tear up at the end but that happens when it’s such a good book and ending.
The book did start off slow, but definitely picked up. I love Vivienne and her sassiness and how well she paired with Marius. Overall it was a wonderful addition to this world and who can say no to more vampires? Especially when it ends with happily ever after. I did tear up at the end but that happens when it’s such a good book and ending.
October 5, 2024
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a review. This book follows the 3rd book in the series but now focuses on Luna's brother, Marius. You could read this without the other 3 (but they're all good!). This is closed door romance with some romantic scenes, but not smut.
Marius is the right amount of vexing, his bodyguard Vivienne is the right amount of annoyed with him. I just loved their dynamic as they went on an adventure, one Marius has been yearning for. It starts with Vivienne accompanying Marius unwillingly (if anything happens to him, she will lose her life too) and begrudgingly. By the time they're on their 2nd quest she no longer feels that way. It's adventure packed with the right amount of character/relationship development. Imo this is the author's best writing to date. Very satisfying ending :)
Marius is the right amount of vexing, his bodyguard Vivienne is the right amount of annoyed with him. I just loved their dynamic as they went on an adventure, one Marius has been yearning for. It starts with Vivienne accompanying Marius unwillingly (if anything happens to him, she will lose her life too) and begrudgingly. By the time they're on their 2nd quest she no longer feels that way. It's adventure packed with the right amount of character/relationship development. Imo this is the author's best writing to date. Very satisfying ending :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2024
I was thrilled to receive an ARC of Troubled! I absolutely adore the rest of the Binding Chronicles and returning to this world felt like a nice warm, hug. This books reminds me so much of Twisted Games but gender swap our MCs and you get an excellent idea of their personalities and the chaos they create. The banter between Marius and Vivianne is perfection and watching them grow closer was a joy. Loved everything about this book from start to finish!
If you love romantasy, these are a MUST READ. Don’t sleep on this series!
If you love romantasy, these are a MUST READ. Don’t sleep on this series!
November 21, 2024
Disclaimer: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Final rating: 3.75/5
Thank you, Elayna, for the opportunity to review this book. While I absolutely loved the first three installments of the series, I found this final book to be a bit disjointed and slower paced. I still enjoyed it, but it took me about a third of the way through to really get into the story. Additionally, I didn’t feel the same connection to Marius and Vivienne as I did with Sebastien and Luna. Marius and Vivienne’s relationship felt somewhat forced at first, and it didn’t flow as naturally.
Some other reviewers mentioned that Marius made too many poor decisions, but I understand where the author was going with this. His portrayal as young, naïve, and seeking independence and freedom made sense to me, even if his choices were frustrating at times.
On a positive note, the book has great narrative drive, and the dialogue is fun to read. However, I did notice that some descriptions were repetitive. Since this is an ARC, I'm not sure where it stands in the editing process, but I think it would benefit from additional line editing to make the writing smoother and to tighten the prose.
As an author myself, I know how much effort goes into crafting a book and how much heart we pour into our writing. I hope my feedback comes across as constructive rather than harsh.
Overall, this is a satisfying conclusion to the series, and I’m glad we got glimpses of Sebastien and Luna. Fans of the series should enjoy this final chapter.
Thank you, Elayna, for an amazing ride over these four books! 😊
Final rating: 3.75/5
Thank you, Elayna, for the opportunity to review this book. While I absolutely loved the first three installments of the series, I found this final book to be a bit disjointed and slower paced. I still enjoyed it, but it took me about a third of the way through to really get into the story. Additionally, I didn’t feel the same connection to Marius and Vivienne as I did with Sebastien and Luna. Marius and Vivienne’s relationship felt somewhat forced at first, and it didn’t flow as naturally.
Some other reviewers mentioned that Marius made too many poor decisions, but I understand where the author was going with this. His portrayal as young, naïve, and seeking independence and freedom made sense to me, even if his choices were frustrating at times.
On a positive note, the book has great narrative drive, and the dialogue is fun to read. However, I did notice that some descriptions were repetitive. Since this is an ARC, I'm not sure where it stands in the editing process, but I think it would benefit from additional line editing to make the writing smoother and to tighten the prose.
As an author myself, I know how much effort goes into crafting a book and how much heart we pour into our writing. I hope my feedback comes across as constructive rather than harsh.
Overall, this is a satisfying conclusion to the series, and I’m glad we got glimpses of Sebastien and Luna. Fans of the series should enjoy this final chapter.
Thank you, Elayna, for an amazing ride over these four books! 😊
October 25, 2024
I was provided this ARC for an honest and voluntary review and it was an absolute PLEASURE to be part of this ARC team🥰
I absolutely loveeee Elayna’s writing, i have read a lot of her work and have enjoyed all of the adventures i have been on in the pages of her books🥰 and i adored ‘Troubled’ just as much as all the others!
My thoughts:-
I love the progression of Marius & Viv’s relationship, how instantly Marius is sneaking about and causing trouble when you first start the book🤣 and i also loveee the POV of the ‘First’ too so you can see the world building and different perspectives of how the world used to be thousands of years ago compared to how the kingdoms are ran now with Luna & Sebastian as king and queen🥰🙌🏻 it gives a more detailed understanding of the world of Eleyta and the history of it too!
I love how Marius is just so vibrant and wants to explore and do crazy things without thinking of the consequences, of course hes going to feel like that after being sick for so long growing up, the guy wants his freedom! I understand that a lot more after having previously read about him and how he grew up and dealt with a lot throughout the Binding Chronicles, But i do really admire how Elayna has taken care to show in detail how he grows with Viv being his second voice and really talking sense into him whilst falling in love with him! Even though it annoys her it still intrigues her how he’s so full of life and wants these experiences and not thinking about the bad that can come from them until it actually happens😂 I absolutely love that growth within him, it’s amazing!
There were some repetitive sentences throughout that could be slightly changed just to bring all of the book together, which I’m sure could be edited to give it that complete smooth flow, but otherwise i absolutely loved everything about this book: The world building, the characters, the plot, the MC’s progression and growth throughout and the ending that brought it all together!💜
As having read the Binding Chronicles AND the Ithenmyr Chronicles it made me SO happy to see Luna & Sebastian in Troubled (of course with Luna being Marius’ Sister) AND the crossover with Xander visiting too was just beautiful, thats one HUGE thing i LOVE about Elayna’s writing that they are all subtly connected with characters from other series being in the books! But also it doesn’t take away from the story so if you haven’t read the other series it still flows really well but gives us readers little easter egg crossovers if we have read them which i love soooo much🥰
The romance throughout was PG but the moments between Marius & Viv were honestly perfect, it made the story and progression between them a lot more heartwarming and loving it was very beautiful🥹🥰
The ending honestly had my heart clutching from worry to despair to happiness it was such a crazy but beautiful ending, and it brought everything to a great close along with the ending of The Binding Chronicles🥰
It was a great book and i can’t wait to reread them all together again VERY soon.
I absolutely loveeee Elayna’s writing, i have read a lot of her work and have enjoyed all of the adventures i have been on in the pages of her books🥰 and i adored ‘Troubled’ just as much as all the others!
My thoughts:-
I love the progression of Marius & Viv’s relationship, how instantly Marius is sneaking about and causing trouble when you first start the book🤣 and i also loveee the POV of the ‘First’ too so you can see the world building and different perspectives of how the world used to be thousands of years ago compared to how the kingdoms are ran now with Luna & Sebastian as king and queen🥰🙌🏻 it gives a more detailed understanding of the world of Eleyta and the history of it too!
I love how Marius is just so vibrant and wants to explore and do crazy things without thinking of the consequences, of course hes going to feel like that after being sick for so long growing up, the guy wants his freedom! I understand that a lot more after having previously read about him and how he grew up and dealt with a lot throughout the Binding Chronicles, But i do really admire how Elayna has taken care to show in detail how he grows with Viv being his second voice and really talking sense into him whilst falling in love with him! Even though it annoys her it still intrigues her how he’s so full of life and wants these experiences and not thinking about the bad that can come from them until it actually happens😂 I absolutely love that growth within him, it’s amazing!
There were some repetitive sentences throughout that could be slightly changed just to bring all of the book together, which I’m sure could be edited to give it that complete smooth flow, but otherwise i absolutely loved everything about this book: The world building, the characters, the plot, the MC’s progression and growth throughout and the ending that brought it all together!💜
As having read the Binding Chronicles AND the Ithenmyr Chronicles it made me SO happy to see Luna & Sebastian in Troubled (of course with Luna being Marius’ Sister) AND the crossover with Xander visiting too was just beautiful, thats one HUGE thing i LOVE about Elayna’s writing that they are all subtly connected with characters from other series being in the books! But also it doesn’t take away from the story so if you haven’t read the other series it still flows really well but gives us readers little easter egg crossovers if we have read them which i love soooo much🥰
The romance throughout was PG but the moments between Marius & Viv were honestly perfect, it made the story and progression between them a lot more heartwarming and loving it was very beautiful🥹🥰
The ending honestly had my heart clutching from worry to despair to happiness it was such a crazy but beautiful ending, and it brought everything to a great close along with the ending of The Binding Chronicles🥰
It was a great book and i can’t wait to reread them all together again VERY soon.
November 4, 2024
This was super cute!
I will start by saying that I have not yet read the first trilogy of The Binding Chronicles. While there are definitely some elements that I think others who have read the original trilogy will appreciate in this story, it does stand on its own very well.
I loved reading about Marius's just overall excitement about leaving Castle Sanguis. He's been a sick child and therefore protected his whole life. Now that he's grown, of course he wants to get out there and see all the places that he's learned about while he was growing up. He is quite naive in thinking he can take on this super powerful feral vampire all by himself, and he's very lucky that his bodyguard is so intent on protecting him that she goes with him. But I appreciated his very sunshiney attitude as he went on various quests. His absolute excitement when he learned that he was the only one who could complete a specific task was palpable through the pages.
Vivienne is the definition of a grumpy bodyguard. She takes this new post of guarding the prince and thinks that it'll be easy-peasy. But she quickly learns it's anything but when he runs away the first night she's guarding him. Their first adventure together couldn't have gone worse and sadly she sees all the weapons out there that can render her powerless.
I love reading about both of their inner monologues as they fight their attraction for the other! She knows she cannot cross the line to feel something for this prince. Not only would it not be allowed, but she could be executed for going there with him. And he thinks that she does not feel the same for him, so he doesn't want to cross any lines that would make their relationship awkward as she guards him. But when they do finally admit their feelings, nothing could tear them apart! Literally.
One of my favorite moments occurred during the final battle when Marius is unaliving the big baddie. While this is a very tense moment, both because of the actual fight and the fact that Vivienne is actively dying, the hilarity came in with Marius's inner thoughts of "Just d!e faster!" It is supposed to be this big moment because he is able to accomplish the near impossible, but he just wants to check on Vivienne.
If you loved The Binding Chronicles, you will love this standalone finale to the series! Definitely give this story a read, especially if you like a slow burn, forbidden love, prince x bodyguard romance, reverse gummy x sunshine, reverse age gap, quests, she's more powerful than him, he's a magnet for trouble, biting, dragons, and ancient evils have awoken.
I received an advanced review copy for free. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
I will start by saying that I have not yet read the first trilogy of The Binding Chronicles. While there are definitely some elements that I think others who have read the original trilogy will appreciate in this story, it does stand on its own very well.
I loved reading about Marius's just overall excitement about leaving Castle Sanguis. He's been a sick child and therefore protected his whole life. Now that he's grown, of course he wants to get out there and see all the places that he's learned about while he was growing up. He is quite naive in thinking he can take on this super powerful feral vampire all by himself, and he's very lucky that his bodyguard is so intent on protecting him that she goes with him. But I appreciated his very sunshiney attitude as he went on various quests. His absolute excitement when he learned that he was the only one who could complete a specific task was palpable through the pages.
Vivienne is the definition of a grumpy bodyguard. She takes this new post of guarding the prince and thinks that it'll be easy-peasy. But she quickly learns it's anything but when he runs away the first night she's guarding him. Their first adventure together couldn't have gone worse and sadly she sees all the weapons out there that can render her powerless.
I love reading about both of their inner monologues as they fight their attraction for the other! She knows she cannot cross the line to feel something for this prince. Not only would it not be allowed, but she could be executed for going there with him. And he thinks that she does not feel the same for him, so he doesn't want to cross any lines that would make their relationship awkward as she guards him. But when they do finally admit their feelings, nothing could tear them apart! Literally.
One of my favorite moments occurred during the final battle when Marius is unaliving the big baddie. While this is a very tense moment, both because of the actual fight and the fact that Vivienne is actively dying, the hilarity came in with Marius's inner thoughts of "Just d!e faster!" It is supposed to be this big moment because he is able to accomplish the near impossible, but he just wants to check on Vivienne.
If you loved The Binding Chronicles, you will love this standalone finale to the series! Definitely give this story a read, especially if you like a slow burn, forbidden love, prince x bodyguard romance, reverse gummy x sunshine, reverse age gap, quests, she's more powerful than him, he's a magnet for trouble, biting, dragons, and ancient evils have awoken.
I received an advanced review copy for free. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2024
Thank you Elayna for the ARC. I was really excited to return to the world of Eleyta! I loved The Binding Chronicles and I was expecting an epic adventure from Marius because of his fascination with the spy master at the end of Luna and Sebastian’s story.
The book started with a prologue in the big bads POV. I’ve always liked having the villains POV so it started on a good note for me.
Viviene (Viv) gets newly assigned as Marius’ bodyguard and loses sight of him the first night on duty. She finds him fleeing through the woods from the event they are attending. And then this is where the book starts going downhill and doesn’t pick back up for me.
She’s a vampire and he’s a halfling human-fortune elf. She is supposed to be protecting him and she decides it’s better to follow him on a stupid mission instead of hog tying his ass and dropping him off at his sister’s feet.
Marius: He’s a fortune elf and he only walks the silver planes 3 times throughout the book. His character felt very weak and although he has only been in the position of prince for 10 years, he certainly plays the part very well. He lives with vampires and he has overcome a lot in the previous trilogy but he portrays someone with no life experiences in ‘Troubled’.
Viv: She’s a badass and deserves more. She has been in the military/guard/bodyguard since she was turned. She has been protecting and looking out for others for at least a century. She deserved someone to look out for her and protect her. It’s ok to be strong, but putting her in a role to protect her love interest made her out to be only a protector and nothing else. Time and again she is injuring herself to near death for Marius. Yes, she is his bodyguard, and it is literally her duty, but this is Marius’ plan and his mission to “prove himself” when it is Viv who is doing the heavy lifting.
The writing was very repetitive. Racing hearts: 15 times, achy hearts and chests (not due to injury): 11 times, warming chests and hearts: 9 times, pounding heart: 9 times, in total there are 61 phrases referencing hearts and chests, not due to injury, in a 409-page book. That is an average of every 7 pages of the book.
I didn’t feel any chemistry between Viv and Marius. At 64% into the book, we are still reading how “wholly inappropriate” their relationship was. This was the point I almost DNF’d.
The only other positive was the appearance of Xander and the non-appearance of Aileana.
The book started with a prologue in the big bads POV. I’ve always liked having the villains POV so it started on a good note for me.
Viviene (Viv) gets newly assigned as Marius’ bodyguard and loses sight of him the first night on duty. She finds him fleeing through the woods from the event they are attending. And then this is where the book starts going downhill and doesn’t pick back up for me.
She’s a vampire and he’s a halfling human-fortune elf. She is supposed to be protecting him and she decides it’s better to follow him on a stupid mission instead of hog tying his ass and dropping him off at his sister’s feet.
Marius: He’s a fortune elf and he only walks the silver planes 3 times throughout the book. His character felt very weak and although he has only been in the position of prince for 10 years, he certainly plays the part very well. He lives with vampires and he has overcome a lot in the previous trilogy but he portrays someone with no life experiences in ‘Troubled’.
Viv: She’s a badass and deserves more. She has been in the military/guard/bodyguard since she was turned. She has been protecting and looking out for others for at least a century. She deserved someone to look out for her and protect her. It’s ok to be strong, but putting her in a role to protect her love interest made her out to be only a protector and nothing else. Time and again she is injuring herself to near death for Marius. Yes, she is his bodyguard, and it is literally her duty, but this is Marius’ plan and his mission to “prove himself” when it is Viv who is doing the heavy lifting.
The writing was very repetitive. Racing hearts: 15 times, achy hearts and chests (not due to injury): 11 times, warming chests and hearts: 9 times, pounding heart: 9 times, in total there are 61 phrases referencing hearts and chests, not due to injury, in a 409-page book. That is an average of every 7 pages of the book.
I didn’t feel any chemistry between Viv and Marius. At 64% into the book, we are still reading how “wholly inappropriate” their relationship was. This was the point I almost DNF’d.
The only other positive was the appearance of Xander and the non-appearance of Aileana.
January 22, 2026
Please note that the following is entirely my personal pov if u have any issues with the criticism, stop reading.
I had such high hopes for this book bcuz the first three were so good but it disappointed me so much. I had to force myself to finish it and I thought abt dnf it 25% thru.
The mmc is a walking contradiction and literally rage bait. He has absolutely no common sense at all and walks right into a life threatening situation with no foresight (which is ironic bcuz he can literally see the future). I wanted to throw my kindle across the room multiple time whilst reading this bcuz of how stupid and inconsiderate he was in the beginning.
The fmc is slightly better but not by much. She thinks she only has two options. The first one being to follow the prince, and the second one being to fly back to the castle and warning the king. She actually has a third option which was to drag Marius back to the castle while flying. It was mentioned in the book that she was strong and she was literally able to do it later on in the book so that could've prevented this whole situation in the first place. And her job is to protect the prince from danger. She can't do that when she's begrudgingly agrees to follow him into said danger. Despite how she might relate to his feeling.
And in the end Sebastian and Luna still played a huge role in saving them from being killed which, if they hadn't stepped in the rest of the story might as well not exist
And personally I still can't help but think that the mmc is still just a child bcuz he literally was in the first three books. This takes place several years later but I can't get it out of my head that he's still ten. Honestly I feel like the author should've done a more detailed backstory for Sebastian.
I do feel like the later half of the book is better but it strays from the entire plot of Marius killing the first on his own. He still does, obviously, but he had a huge amount of help from Luna and Sebastian.
if Goodreads were able to give half stars I would give it 2.5 but I don't think it's good enough to warrant a 3.
I had such high hopes for this book bcuz the first three were so good but it disappointed me so much. I had to force myself to finish it and I thought abt dnf it 25% thru.
The mmc is a walking contradiction and literally rage bait. He has absolutely no common sense at all and walks right into a life threatening situation with no foresight (which is ironic bcuz he can literally see the future). I wanted to throw my kindle across the room multiple time whilst reading this bcuz of how stupid and inconsiderate he was in the beginning.
The fmc is slightly better but not by much. She thinks she only has two options. The first one being to follow the prince, and the second one being to fly back to the castle and warning the king. She actually has a third option which was to drag Marius back to the castle while flying. It was mentioned in the book that she was strong and she was literally able to do it later on in the book so that could've prevented this whole situation in the first place. And her job is to protect the prince from danger. She can't do that when she's begrudgingly agrees to follow him into said danger. Despite how she might relate to his feeling.
And in the end Sebastian and Luna still played a huge role in saving them from being killed which, if they hadn't stepped in the rest of the story might as well not exist
And personally I still can't help but think that the mmc is still just a child bcuz he literally was in the first three books. This takes place several years later but I can't get it out of my head that he's still ten. Honestly I feel like the author should've done a more detailed backstory for Sebastian.
I do feel like the later half of the book is better but it strays from the entire plot of Marius killing the first on his own. He still does, obviously, but he had a huge amount of help from Luna and Sebastian.
if Goodreads were able to give half stars I would give it 2.5 but I don't think it's good enough to warrant a 3.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2024
2.5 out of 5
Thank you for the ARC! I was excited to return to the world of Sebastian and Luna. Of all the Ithenmyr Chronicles, I enjoy their story best.
I really wanted to love this book. But it’s got a few things stacked against it:
-Marius, like most 21yos males who haven’t experienced adulting , even one who has been part of prophecies and defied a deadly illness, thinks he knows a lot more about life than he actually does. Even though he knows his magic isn’t strong, he lives with the strongest vampires in the land… somehow he feels like he knows better than them, let alone a vampire a century older than him?
I do empathize with his plight, but for someone who has seen death, danger, and kidnapping, he doesn’t have a strong grasp on consequences or reality.
-I never really felt any emotional involvement- it’s a stand alone so I wasn’t worried about true “danger” or a substantial cliff hanger.
-The former Queen was an engaging villain- unpredictable in that was crazy people are, like you didn’t know what her next move was going to be… this original Vampire had pretty obvious motivations and not much else. She had potential (the shadow-zombie-vampire things were intriguing) but it’s not realized.
I did like Vivienne, just poor her for dealing with Marius and his poorly thought out plans.
I’m not trying to put the author down- I am eagerly awaiting The Choosjng Chronicles and Given, I just can’t start ANOTHER unfinished series right now, so I’ll wait until next year.
Thank you for the ARC! I was excited to return to the world of Sebastian and Luna. Of all the Ithenmyr Chronicles, I enjoy their story best.
I really wanted to love this book. But it’s got a few things stacked against it:
-Marius, like most 21yos males who haven’t experienced adulting , even one who has been part of prophecies and defied a deadly illness, thinks he knows a lot more about life than he actually does. Even though he knows his magic isn’t strong, he lives with the strongest vampires in the land… somehow he feels like he knows better than them, let alone a vampire a century older than him?
I do empathize with his plight, but for someone who has seen death, danger, and kidnapping, he doesn’t have a strong grasp on consequences or reality.
-I never really felt any emotional involvement- it’s a stand alone so I wasn’t worried about true “danger” or a substantial cliff hanger.
-The former Queen was an engaging villain- unpredictable in that was crazy people are, like you didn’t know what her next move was going to be… this original Vampire had pretty obvious motivations and not much else. She had potential (the shadow-zombie-vampire things were intriguing) but it’s not realized.
I did like Vivienne, just poor her for dealing with Marius and his poorly thought out plans.
I’m not trying to put the author down- I am eagerly awaiting The Choosjng Chronicles and Given, I just can’t start ANOTHER unfinished series right now, so I’ll wait until next year.
October 28, 2024
He was an elven prince who craved adventure, who yearned to explore lands beyond his home, and to meet other beings different from him, like the fae and the merfolk. It was a need for freedom that he felt at his core, after having been denied from living his life as he wished because of a sickness that plagued him for most of his childhood.
Now, one of the most vicious vampires to have ever walked the land has escaped its entombment, and the prince has been tasked for its capture and elimination.
In this quest he is accompanied by a female vampire guard who has sworn a blood vow to protect him at all costs. As they embark on their quest, they encounter fierce and bloody battles where their lives are nearly lost. Along the way, they learn about each other, form a budding friendship, and begin to forge a connection that only deepens and strengthens over time. Soon enough, a near-fatal event solidifies their realization that they mean to each other more than they could have ever imagined.
I have truly enjoyed this fourth installment of the Binding Chronicles series. The writing was beautiful, crystalline and melodic. You could visualize clearly every scene, feel every emotion intensely, and the action - well, there certainly wasn't a dull moment anywhere in the book! The final battle scenes were particularly intense and moving, I couldn't stop reading even when I already needed to! Finally, the epilogue...it was just the ending I needed and deserved: heartwarming, satisfying, blissful. Amazing storytelling indeed.
Now, one of the most vicious vampires to have ever walked the land has escaped its entombment, and the prince has been tasked for its capture and elimination.
In this quest he is accompanied by a female vampire guard who has sworn a blood vow to protect him at all costs. As they embark on their quest, they encounter fierce and bloody battles where their lives are nearly lost. Along the way, they learn about each other, form a budding friendship, and begin to forge a connection that only deepens and strengthens over time. Soon enough, a near-fatal event solidifies their realization that they mean to each other more than they could have ever imagined.
I have truly enjoyed this fourth installment of the Binding Chronicles series. The writing was beautiful, crystalline and melodic. You could visualize clearly every scene, feel every emotion intensely, and the action - well, there certainly wasn't a dull moment anywhere in the book! The final battle scenes were particularly intense and moving, I couldn't stop reading even when I already needed to! Finally, the epilogue...it was just the ending I needed and deserved: heartwarming, satisfying, blissful. Amazing storytelling indeed.
July 22, 2025
This was a good conclusion to the Binding Chronicles following our friend Marius and his bodyguard Vivienne! Marius has spent years in the castle after a long illness and his sister Luna, who sacrificed EVERYTHING for his health, wanted him to be protected. Enter Vivienne- who loses track of him the first night….. once she finally catches up to him Marius’ ultimatum leads them to an extremely dangerous journey that gets both of them in HUGE trouble. The trouble doesn’t end there- they end up in the middle of a tremendously dangerous situation and it seems Marius is the one who will have to get them out of it. All the while- he’s catching feelings for Vivienne….. does she feel the same way? Will they be able to get out of their predicament? Gotta read to find out!
This book was prob my favorite of the four books. I do love Marius and it was great to read about him as an adult. His bodyguard, Vivienne is definitely his perfect match, a soldier and a powerful vampire who can handle his stubbornness all the while protecting him. They do end up protecting each other which I really loved. Their dynamics were cute and the burn was SLOW on this one. This read was quick and I liked the storyline. There was a little twist at the end that I LOVED. This was a good series- not too complicated, not too dark, no real spice if that’s you’re jam (PS i read the indie version which is low/no spice but the series is being republished traditionally with spice. Ill prob re-read for the spice 🔥)
This book was prob my favorite of the four books. I do love Marius and it was great to read about him as an adult. His bodyguard, Vivienne is definitely his perfect match, a soldier and a powerful vampire who can handle his stubbornness all the while protecting him. They do end up protecting each other which I really loved. Their dynamics were cute and the burn was SLOW on this one. This read was quick and I liked the storyline. There was a little twist at the end that I LOVED. This was a good series- not too complicated, not too dark, no real spice if that’s you’re jam (PS i read the indie version which is low/no spice but the series is being republished traditionally with spice. Ill prob re-read for the spice 🔥)
May 1, 2025
So far everything that I have read by ERG has been ok, I read the Ithenmyr Chronicles which was a total drag and I almost DNF’d it, and now the Binding Chronicles. Even though it’s all mostly YA series and there’s no spice, this is the best book of hers I’ve read. This is what I wish all the other books were like. This was more plot driven, her writing improved and there wasn’t all the “you are mine, and I am yours” nonsense every other page, which is so over done in all her other books that it’s like 🤮. Granted she could do less with the seconds feeling like minutes/hours/eternity still, this was a lot better and more fast paced. I totally dig Marius and Vivienne’s story and we finally had an FMC that I didn’t want to slap and could totally hold her own. I definitely enjoyed that this was a darker story and we got Marius’s point of view as an adult after everything that had happened and he got his own taste of adventure. Definitely good as a standalone in my opinion. If I could do it again I wouldn’t have wasted my time on the Ithenmyr Chronicles, this series was better, although I still have some meh feelings towards Luna. Overall, I wish the series had been a bit darker from the beginning and more towards the mature adult genre because I feel like it had the potential to be a really good story for Sebastian and Luna with some decent spiciness but oh well. Overall I give the whole series a 3.5 star rating.
November 4, 2024
4/5⭐ .5/5🌶️
Please see that this is an ARC review, and the book was so kindly given to me by the author in exchange for my honest opinion 🩷
This is book 4 of The Binding Chronicles and a stand alone after the events of the main trilogy (which I haven't completed yet 🤭) it follows Prince Marius and his bodyguard Vivienne as she is forced to follow him as he runs away from his sheltered and guarded life and out into the unknown. And did I mention that he seems to attract trouble?
This book was a really fun ride. It felt full of action and adventure. It did feel alittle slow at the start, but when the ball started rolling it certainly didn't stop. The story had me in a choke hold the entire time, keeping me engaged and wanting to know what happened next. The chemistry between the Vivienne and Marius was also fantastic. I LOVED the inner struggle Vivienne had with being how bodyguard but also feeling attachment to the prince. The progression of their relationship felt natural for their situation and I really enjoyed it.
Overall, this book was absolutely worth the read. I haven't yet finished the trilogy before this, so that's where I'm coming from with my review. More from a stand alone perspective. And I really enjoyed it. If you're looking for action, adventure, and a thrilling story, with romantic tension and no smut, then this would absolutely be for you!
Please see that this is an ARC review, and the book was so kindly given to me by the author in exchange for my honest opinion 🩷
This is book 4 of The Binding Chronicles and a stand alone after the events of the main trilogy (which I haven't completed yet 🤭) it follows Prince Marius and his bodyguard Vivienne as she is forced to follow him as he runs away from his sheltered and guarded life and out into the unknown. And did I mention that he seems to attract trouble?
This book was a really fun ride. It felt full of action and adventure. It did feel alittle slow at the start, but when the ball started rolling it certainly didn't stop. The story had me in a choke hold the entire time, keeping me engaged and wanting to know what happened next. The chemistry between the Vivienne and Marius was also fantastic. I LOVED the inner struggle Vivienne had with being how bodyguard but also feeling attachment to the prince. The progression of their relationship felt natural for their situation and I really enjoyed it.
Overall, this book was absolutely worth the read. I haven't yet finished the trilogy before this, so that's where I'm coming from with my review. More from a stand alone perspective. And I really enjoyed it. If you're looking for action, adventure, and a thrilling story, with romantic tension and no smut, then this would absolutely be for you!
November 6, 2024
The epic conclusion to the Binding Chronicles by Elayna R. Gallea 🦇
While I absolutely loved the first 3 books in the Binding Chronicles (focused on Sebastian & Luna), getting to know Marius and Vivienne on a deeper level was a treat.
Mix an adventure seeking halfling prince with a century old bodyguard (and may I say a badass female character), and we get a beautiful adventure.
I loved getting to learn more about Marius and Viv! This is definitely a slow burn, and there is very little spice in this book - which in this case I loved because it really focused on plot development and their growing relationship. After spending his life as a sick child, Marius yearns for adventure and is determined to experience it. Marius comes across as reckless in an effort to prove he no longer needs to be babied, cue Viv his bodyguard who follows along to keep him safe. I loved reading books with strong FMC, and this really hit the mark for me! Troubled was truly an epic conclusion to this series.
If you loved the Binding Chronicles, then you’ll love Troubled - though it stands well on it’s own I would definitely recommend reading the first three as well as I feel you get a bit more information that makes it that much better.
Thank you so much for the ARC, it was a pleasure!
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
1 🌶️
While I absolutely loved the first 3 books in the Binding Chronicles (focused on Sebastian & Luna), getting to know Marius and Vivienne on a deeper level was a treat.
Mix an adventure seeking halfling prince with a century old bodyguard (and may I say a badass female character), and we get a beautiful adventure.
I loved getting to learn more about Marius and Viv! This is definitely a slow burn, and there is very little spice in this book - which in this case I loved because it really focused on plot development and their growing relationship. After spending his life as a sick child, Marius yearns for adventure and is determined to experience it. Marius comes across as reckless in an effort to prove he no longer needs to be babied, cue Viv his bodyguard who follows along to keep him safe. I loved reading books with strong FMC, and this really hit the mark for me! Troubled was truly an epic conclusion to this series.
If you loved the Binding Chronicles, then you’ll love Troubled - though it stands well on it’s own I would definitely recommend reading the first three as well as I feel you get a bit more information that makes it that much better.
Thank you so much for the ARC, it was a pleasure!
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
1 🌶️
January 19, 2025
❤️🔥 Última parte de la saga de las "Crónicas Vinculantes". En lo personal no lo contaría como tal ya que es totalmente independiente a los otros tres, y aunque aparecen Luna y Sebastián, diría que no es necesario leer la trilogía con anterioridad para poder entender este libro, solo tal vez para conocer un poco más a los reyes de Eleyta.
❤️🔥 Este libro nos narra sobre el hermano de Luna, un halfling mitad humano y mitad elfo de la fortuna quien quiere aventuras pero siente que en el castillo Sanguis jamás podrá vivirlas, por lo que se escapa en la noche del baile y Vivienne, su guardaespaldas, lo sigue para ir con él y poder protegerlo de los peligros que acechan a un mortal como él.
❤️🔥 Fue una lectura bastante ligera y rápida de leer, además de que no tiene una fantasía difícil de entender, por lo que me parece bien para aquellos que buscan iniciar en este mundo de fantasía.
❤️🔥 Algo que me gustó bastante es como se va desarrollando de a poco el amor entre Marius y Vivienne, me parecieron muy tiernos. Aunque a veces me parecía que iban demasiado lento, pero entiendo el porqué de esto.
❤️🔥 Mi calificación se debe a que me pareció un tanto lineal la trama, además de que siento que muchas cosas se pudieron haber evitado si Marius hubiese dado el mensaje que debía a la reina en vez de intentar lidiar el solo con todo.
❤️🔥 Este libro nos narra sobre el hermano de Luna, un halfling mitad humano y mitad elfo de la fortuna quien quiere aventuras pero siente que en el castillo Sanguis jamás podrá vivirlas, por lo que se escapa en la noche del baile y Vivienne, su guardaespaldas, lo sigue para ir con él y poder protegerlo de los peligros que acechan a un mortal como él.
❤️🔥 Fue una lectura bastante ligera y rápida de leer, además de que no tiene una fantasía difícil de entender, por lo que me parece bien para aquellos que buscan iniciar en este mundo de fantasía.
❤️🔥 Algo que me gustó bastante es como se va desarrollando de a poco el amor entre Marius y Vivienne, me parecieron muy tiernos. Aunque a veces me parecía que iban demasiado lento, pero entiendo el porqué de esto.
❤️🔥 Mi calificación se debe a que me pareció un tanto lineal la trama, además de que siento que muchas cosas se pudieron haber evitado si Marius hubiese dado el mensaje que debía a la reina en vez de intentar lidiar el solo con todo.
October 17, 2024
Marius Wisethorne is the halfling prince of Eleyta. After a childhood of illness his sister, Queen Luna, wants to keep him close. All Marius wants is an adventure. When he intercepts a message about a feral First escaping their tomb he jumps at the chance to prove himself. It is Vivienne's first night being assigned as the prince's bodyguard when she catches him running off. In an effort to keep him safe, and keep her head, she reluctantly joins him on his foolish mission. Neither of them know what they are going to find, and definitely didn't expect to find love.
I was so excited to get back into the Four Kingdoms and to see how things turned out. It was great to see Marius all grown up and healthy, even though he definitely came off as naive and stubborn. But given that he is seeking his independence after a lifetime of feeling trapped it is understandable. So it was good to see his growth as Vivienne attempts to curb his impulsiveness. This book kinda felt like a farewell to the Four Kingdoms era and it was nice to see everyone happy and the world at peace. It was a great ending.
Rating 4 stars
*I received a review copy from the author for my voluntary and honest review
I was so excited to get back into the Four Kingdoms and to see how things turned out. It was great to see Marius all grown up and healthy, even though he definitely came off as naive and stubborn. But given that he is seeking his independence after a lifetime of feeling trapped it is understandable. So it was good to see his growth as Vivienne attempts to curb his impulsiveness. This book kinda felt like a farewell to the Four Kingdoms era and it was nice to see everyone happy and the world at peace. It was a great ending.
Rating 4 stars
*I received a review copy from the author for my voluntary and honest review
November 1, 2024
Contains spoilers **
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was so excited to continue reading in this world as I have read the first three books. Overall, I was pleased with the story and would read again.
This book while it touches on our favorites Sebastian & Luna is truly about Luna's brother Marius many years after the completion of book 3. He has grown up quite a bit since being cured and is ready to start an adventure. Considering his start at life, he is very naive about things and makes rash impulsive decisions, which of course affect those around him. Specifically his new bodyguard, Vivienne.
Things go much as expected in this genre. Marius does dumb things for noble reasons, and while it irritates his bodyguard , she understands his motives, thus starting to have feelings. While being young and naive Marius' feelings seem to happen more quickly.
I would have liked for there to be a bit more growth to the pairs' feelings, but that could have taken a lot more book to spell out. So it didn't bother me overly.
Elayna does a good job as expected drawing readers back into the world she has built and in my opinion was able to complete a grear story for all her beloved characters.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was so excited to continue reading in this world as I have read the first three books. Overall, I was pleased with the story and would read again.
This book while it touches on our favorites Sebastian & Luna is truly about Luna's brother Marius many years after the completion of book 3. He has grown up quite a bit since being cured and is ready to start an adventure. Considering his start at life, he is very naive about things and makes rash impulsive decisions, which of course affect those around him. Specifically his new bodyguard, Vivienne.
Things go much as expected in this genre. Marius does dumb things for noble reasons, and while it irritates his bodyguard , she understands his motives, thus starting to have feelings. While being young and naive Marius' feelings seem to happen more quickly.
I would have liked for there to be a bit more growth to the pairs' feelings, but that could have taken a lot more book to spell out. So it didn't bother me overly.
Elayna does a good job as expected drawing readers back into the world she has built and in my opinion was able to complete a grear story for all her beloved characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2024
📚✨ Book Review Time! ✨📚
Troubled by Elayna R. Gallea
Adventure-seeking prince + badass vampire bodyguard = one wild ride! 🏰🦇
Meet Marius Wisethorn, the halfling prince of Eleyta, who's itching for some action beyond palace walls. His brilliant (read: totally reckless) plan? Track down an ancient, feral vampire and prove he’s ready to rule the world. Spoiler: He’s not ready. 😂
Enter Vivienne Beaumont, the century-old vampire bodyguard who’s so done with babysitting royals. But thanks to a blood vow, she’s stuck protecting this runaway prince on his suicidal mission. Cue the chaos—and a surprising spark of forbidden love. 💜🔥
This standalone gem offers: 🦇 Fierce female lead who can crush you... and does. 💜 Slow-burn romance that makes you scream “JUST KISS ALREADY!” 🦇 Epic adventures with dragons, dangerous missions, and lots of trouble. 💜 Biting. Yes, that kind. 😉
It's all about balance—keeping the prince alive and resisting his charm (Vivienne is doing great... not really). If you loved the tension in Tethered, Tormented, and Treasured, you’re in for another treat! 🎉
Ready to dive into the mayhem? Trust me, it’s totally worth it. 😉
#Troubled #FantasyRomance #HalflingAdventures #VampireBodyguard #ForbiddenLove #Bookstagram #DragonsAndDrama #ReadThisNow 📖🦇🔥
Troubled by Elayna R. Gallea
Adventure-seeking prince + badass vampire bodyguard = one wild ride! 🏰🦇
Meet Marius Wisethorn, the halfling prince of Eleyta, who's itching for some action beyond palace walls. His brilliant (read: totally reckless) plan? Track down an ancient, feral vampire and prove he’s ready to rule the world. Spoiler: He’s not ready. 😂
Enter Vivienne Beaumont, the century-old vampire bodyguard who’s so done with babysitting royals. But thanks to a blood vow, she’s stuck protecting this runaway prince on his suicidal mission. Cue the chaos—and a surprising spark of forbidden love. 💜🔥
This standalone gem offers: 🦇 Fierce female lead who can crush you... and does. 💜 Slow-burn romance that makes you scream “JUST KISS ALREADY!” 🦇 Epic adventures with dragons, dangerous missions, and lots of trouble. 💜 Biting. Yes, that kind. 😉
It's all about balance—keeping the prince alive and resisting his charm (Vivienne is doing great... not really). If you loved the tension in Tethered, Tormented, and Treasured, you’re in for another treat! 🎉
Ready to dive into the mayhem? Trust me, it’s totally worth it. 😉
#Troubled #FantasyRomance #HalflingAdventures #VampireBodyguard #ForbiddenLove #Bookstagram #DragonsAndDrama #ReadThisNow 📖🦇🔥
November 27, 2024
I've read a bunch from this author and I will definitely continue to do so. Especially after this one.
I loved the continuation of the storyline in this book. It follows Marius (the halfling prince, brother to Luna) and his vampire bad a$$ bodyguard Vivienne.
This definitely gives you adventure and action. It also gives tension and romance. The perfect combination!
Marius is trying to prove himself after being coddled and hidden away to protect him his whole life. This leads him to make some less than stellar choices even though his intentions were in the right place. Vivienne on the other hand has spent more than a lifetime working her way into this position. She was expecting this job to be easier than it has turned out to be. Good thing she is a darn good bodyguard. Being a vampire definitely has its advantages sometimes.
The tension between the characters was really well written. You felt it. The pull that they both tried to fight. The attraction that they tried to ignore. The reverse age gap isnt always my favorite but Elayna did it right and I truly enjoyed that trope in this book. The forbidden aspect of their attraction was another bonus point in my eyes.
This was such a good addition to the series and so worth reading. Go check out her other books too!
I loved the continuation of the storyline in this book. It follows Marius (the halfling prince, brother to Luna) and his vampire bad a$$ bodyguard Vivienne.
This definitely gives you adventure and action. It also gives tension and romance. The perfect combination!
Marius is trying to prove himself after being coddled and hidden away to protect him his whole life. This leads him to make some less than stellar choices even though his intentions were in the right place. Vivienne on the other hand has spent more than a lifetime working her way into this position. She was expecting this job to be easier than it has turned out to be. Good thing she is a darn good bodyguard. Being a vampire definitely has its advantages sometimes.
The tension between the characters was really well written. You felt it. The pull that they both tried to fight. The attraction that they tried to ignore. The reverse age gap isnt always my favorite but Elayna did it right and I truly enjoyed that trope in this book. The forbidden aspect of their attraction was another bonus point in my eyes.
This was such a good addition to the series and so worth reading. Go check out her other books too!
November 4, 2024
The fourth book in The Binding Chronicles did not disappoint!
I already cherish this series as Luna and Sebastian are my favorite couple. I was surprised and excited to find out there was a fourth book and it would be in Marius POV!
Now all grown, Marius wants adventure! And who could blame him? With his immortal Queen sister and her husband having these grand adventures and meeting so many important people during his younger years as Prince of Eleyta. Marius is ready and willing to go the uncharted road to get the freedom he craves.
After intercepting a note, meant for the Queen and King, Marius sets on a path of danger, bringing along his grumpy bodyguard, Vivienne, who fights him at every turn. But that won't stop him! Marius is ready to prove he's not a sick kid anymore.
This is a very slow burn, grumpy bodyguard / danger-magnet prince relationship. Their bickering is very fun and watching them slowly fall for each other during this adventure was cute. The adventure itself is great. I loved learning about the original 12 and their backstory. The storytelling was well done, it didn't feel like it dragged on or was over too fast.
It was nice to come back and see things through Marius eyes.
** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily **
I already cherish this series as Luna and Sebastian are my favorite couple. I was surprised and excited to find out there was a fourth book and it would be in Marius POV!
Now all grown, Marius wants adventure! And who could blame him? With his immortal Queen sister and her husband having these grand adventures and meeting so many important people during his younger years as Prince of Eleyta. Marius is ready and willing to go the uncharted road to get the freedom he craves.
After intercepting a note, meant for the Queen and King, Marius sets on a path of danger, bringing along his grumpy bodyguard, Vivienne, who fights him at every turn. But that won't stop him! Marius is ready to prove he's not a sick kid anymore.
This is a very slow burn, grumpy bodyguard / danger-magnet prince relationship. Their bickering is very fun and watching them slowly fall for each other during this adventure was cute. The adventure itself is great. I loved learning about the original 12 and their backstory. The storytelling was well done, it didn't feel like it dragged on or was over too fast.
It was nice to come back and see things through Marius eyes.
** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily **
November 4, 2024
Troubled is such a great addition to the Tethered books! It was so fun to see Marius grown up and healthier, as well as seeing Luna and Sebastian again. I thought Marius got the story he deserved, and I love that for him.
A creature has broken out of its tomb and is causing chaos in the kingdom. Marius has been cooped up, and Luna isn’t allowing him to go out on the adventures he’s craving to have. He gets word of this creature, and finds it a great time to prove he can be allowed out in the world. He gets caught by his new guard, Vivienne, and forces her to join him.
I really loved how this storyline made it so Marius really was the only one who could save the day. It forces Luna to realize that she can’t keep Marius sheltered and that she needs to let go a bit. It also gives Marius a chance to grow up even more, learn what he really wants in life, and what to love is really about. Vivienne was a perfect balance for him.
Tropes
Prince x Guard
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Romance
Slow Burn
🌶️.5
Thank you, Elayna, for sending me a copy of this book!
A creature has broken out of its tomb and is causing chaos in the kingdom. Marius has been cooped up, and Luna isn’t allowing him to go out on the adventures he’s craving to have. He gets word of this creature, and finds it a great time to prove he can be allowed out in the world. He gets caught by his new guard, Vivienne, and forces her to join him.
I really loved how this storyline made it so Marius really was the only one who could save the day. It forces Luna to realize that she can’t keep Marius sheltered and that she needs to let go a bit. It also gives Marius a chance to grow up even more, learn what he really wants in life, and what to love is really about. Vivienne was a perfect balance for him.
Tropes
Prince x Guard
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Romance
Slow Burn
🌶️.5
Thank you, Elayna, for sending me a copy of this book!
November 4, 2024
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really loved Luna and Sebastian’s story, so I was excited to read more from the series. I was a little apprehensive at first since Marius is so young when we first meet him in the first three books, but there is enough separation that it didn’t feel as weird as I thought!
Love the reversal of roles with FMC first of all being the bodyguard, and also with being the more deadly of the two! Marius and Viv have great chemistry throughout and are both total badasses. Even though Marius bites off more than he can chew (on several occasions), he grows a lot over the course of the novel.
I would say that this book definitely can be read on its own, but it helps to have read the other books as there is less world building in this one. The world isn’t too complex and you will be able to follow the story without the other books. It does help to understand the history between Luna and Marius though, so I would recommend to read as a series.
Overall, really enjoyed it! Thank you Elayna!
I really loved Luna and Sebastian’s story, so I was excited to read more from the series. I was a little apprehensive at first since Marius is so young when we first meet him in the first three books, but there is enough separation that it didn’t feel as weird as I thought!
Love the reversal of roles with FMC first of all being the bodyguard, and also with being the more deadly of the two! Marius and Viv have great chemistry throughout and are both total badasses. Even though Marius bites off more than he can chew (on several occasions), he grows a lot over the course of the novel.
I would say that this book definitely can be read on its own, but it helps to have read the other books as there is less world building in this one. The world isn’t too complex and you will be able to follow the story without the other books. It does help to understand the history between Luna and Marius though, so I would recommend to read as a series.
Overall, really enjoyed it! Thank you Elayna!
November 6, 2024
What an absolutely delightful finish to the Binding Chronicles!
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. :)
I highly recommend that anyone and everyone read this book. If you like forbidden romance, slow burn romance and adventure, this is the book for you. Once I started it I couldn't put it down. I recommend reading the first 3 books of this series before reading Troubled. It adds context and you will see reoccurring characters.
The events of this book take place over a decade after the original trilogy of the Binding Chronicles. Marius is all grown up and he longs to go see the world, but his sister, the queen, keeps him close and extra safe at all times. Enter Vivienne, our prince's new body guard. She thought guarding the Prince Marius would be like retirement after serving in the army. She couldn't have been more wrong. These two embark on a journey for Marius to prove himself to the Queen and King after a baddie of legend escapes their tomb. Please go read this and follow them on their adventure. :)
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. :)
I highly recommend that anyone and everyone read this book. If you like forbidden romance, slow burn romance and adventure, this is the book for you. Once I started it I couldn't put it down. I recommend reading the first 3 books of this series before reading Troubled. It adds context and you will see reoccurring characters.
The events of this book take place over a decade after the original trilogy of the Binding Chronicles. Marius is all grown up and he longs to go see the world, but his sister, the queen, keeps him close and extra safe at all times. Enter Vivienne, our prince's new body guard. She thought guarding the Prince Marius would be like retirement after serving in the army. She couldn't have been more wrong. These two embark on a journey for Marius to prove himself to the Queen and King after a baddie of legend escapes their tomb. Please go read this and follow them on their adventure. :)
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