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The Royal Gold Keepers #3
Bonded Ever After
I have more questions than answers…
In one world, I’ve been told to trust no one but Callum. The leaders I’ve always believed in are supposed to be my enemies, and the people I’ve served all my life seem to only see me as a tool to get what they want.
But what do I believe?
Things aren’t any easier in the magical world of Neverwoo. Callum and I are still searching for answers to our fathers’ disappearances, and we’re trying to navigate the irresistible connection between us, when we know we can never be together.
Can two enemies walk between worlds and help each other survive? Or will they simply be the cause of each other’s destruction?
WICKED EVER AFTER is book three in The Royal Gold Keepers series. It is a steamy MF enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance with mystery, magic, and love.
In one world, I’ve been told to trust no one but Callum. The leaders I’ve always believed in are supposed to be my enemies, and the people I’ve served all my life seem to only see me as a tool to get what they want.
But what do I believe?
Things aren’t any easier in the magical world of Neverwoo. Callum and I are still searching for answers to our fathers’ disappearances, and we’re trying to navigate the irresistible connection between us, when we know we can never be together.
Can two enemies walk between worlds and help each other survive? Or will they simply be the cause of each other’s destruction?
WICKED EVER AFTER is book three in The Royal Gold Keepers series. It is a steamy MF enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance with mystery, magic, and love.
- GenresFantasy
174 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2025
20 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Lacey Carter Andersen
272 books935 followersLacey Carter Andersen loves reading, writing, and drinking excessive amounts of coffee. She spends her days taking care of her husband, three kids, and three cats. But at night, everything changes! Her imagination runs wild with strong-willed characters, unique worlds, and exciting plots that she enthusiastically puts into stories.
Lacey has dozens of tales: science fiction romances, paranormal romances, short romances, reverse harem romances, and more. So, please feel free to dive into any of her worlds; she loves to have the company!
And you're welcome to reach out to her; she really enjoys hearing from her readers.
You can find her at:
Email: laceycarterandersen@gmail.com
Mailing List: www.eepurl.com/cVwDNP
Website: https://laceycarterandersen.net/
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/Lacey-Carter-Anderse...
Lacey has dozens of tales: science fiction romances, paranormal romances, short romances, reverse harem romances, and more. So, please feel free to dive into any of her worlds; she loves to have the company!
And you're welcome to reach out to her; she really enjoys hearing from her readers.
You can find her at:
Email: laceycarterandersen@gmail.com
Mailing List: www.eepurl.com/cVwDNP
Website: https://laceycarterandersen.net/
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/Lacey-Carter-Anderse...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
February 13, 2025
I genuinely don’t ever think I’ve read a book where it felt like the author couldn’t be bother finishing off the series. I loved the premise of this series in the first book and the blend of some mysterious magical realm and what seemed like some secular dystopian society.
Everything in this book felt rushed. Things feel like they came out of no where. The other POVs just felt misplaced and odd. The whole pregnancy story line felt like a bizarre addition. The whole “we want to keep them in cages and breed them” could have actually been done SO well and dragged out the story into an actual conclusion; and considering this book was only 176 pages, it’s obvious to see it was just rushed to finish it off.
spoilers
Instead we get a whole town being killed with like 2 pages of build up, their best friends disappearing to escape (whilst one of them somehow gets lost with no context and ends up with bird man Xarex), some weird interactions on their trail which just felt like page fillers, and then some weird “oh you’re actually fae royalty”.
The conversations between Elora and Callum were cringe. I’m genuinely struggling to understand how this series started so strong and then it just felt like the author was like “eh”.
Everything in this book felt rushed. Things feel like they came out of no where. The other POVs just felt misplaced and odd. The whole pregnancy story line felt like a bizarre addition. The whole “we want to keep them in cages and breed them” could have actually been done SO well and dragged out the story into an actual conclusion; and considering this book was only 176 pages, it’s obvious to see it was just rushed to finish it off.
spoilers
Instead we get a whole town being killed with like 2 pages of build up, their best friends disappearing to escape (whilst one of them somehow gets lost with no context and ends up with bird man Xarex), some weird interactions on their trail which just felt like page fillers, and then some weird “oh you’re actually fae royalty”.
The conversations between Elora and Callum were cringe. I’m genuinely struggling to understand how this series started so strong and then it just felt like the author was like “eh”.
February 16, 2025
Callum and Elora gave me the ick with every conversation and dont get me started on "Little Bean". Storyline kinda came from no where. Every plot twist was kinda just glossed over then suddenly they're royalty without any real context. Came very close to DNFing a few times but was invested in the series so wanted to see how it would end but was sadly disappointed
February 12, 2025
Lacey Carter Andersen left me completely gobsmacked by Bonded Ever After. I never expected the story to go the way that it did. It starts off with a heck of a plot twist. From there, more perspectives, horrific revelations about the council, unexpected developments for a few characters, even more twists, and answers are finally given about not just the Neverwood but also the fate of Elora's and Callum's fathers. The surprises just kept coming.
The story went by incredibly fast, and I enjoyed every minute of it. The entire story reminded me of a fairytale, especially the ending. I'm happy that Elora and Callum got their HEA. I will admit I was shaky about Cal, especially when he reverted right back to his old ways at the beginning of this, but he surprised me. Bonded Ever After was a perfect ending to the series. However, I am curious about the ending, does it mean a possible spin-off? I guess we'll see.
The story went by incredibly fast, and I enjoyed every minute of it. The entire story reminded me of a fairytale, especially the ending. I'm happy that Elora and Callum got their HEA. I will admit I was shaky about Cal, especially when he reverted right back to his old ways at the beginning of this, but he surprised me. Bonded Ever After was a perfect ending to the series. However, I am curious about the ending, does it mean a possible spin-off? I guess we'll see.
February 12, 2025
Wow. This book was off and running from the moment it started. Filled with unexpected revelations and no small amount of plot twists, I could not read this book fast enough. I loved seeing the relationship between Elora and Callum grow and progress, and the way they were able to lean on, to rely on, one another was a thing of beauty. But that ending! It’s gone and stolen most of the thoughts from my head, because I don’t exactly know if we’ve reached the end of the road or if there are still more journeys the author plans to take us on.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
February 12, 2025
I was invested from the start!
The magic, mystery, and romance continue in book 3!
This book had action, adventure, danger, lots of emotions, and love.
Along with some unexpected discoveries, we learn more, and truths are revealed.
Most importantly, I think the author gave us the perfect ending to Callum and Elora's story.
I hope we get more in this world! I mean... Phoenix Trail what?
The magic, mystery, and romance continue in book 3!
This book had action, adventure, danger, lots of emotions, and love.
Along with some unexpected discoveries, we learn more, and truths are revealed.
Most importantly, I think the author gave us the perfect ending to Callum and Elora's story.
I hope we get more in this world! I mean... Phoenix Trail what?
February 17, 2025
This book was just written so fast, the last 2 books had so much development, but this one just didn't follow anything. One page your at one point then the next you are weeks down the line. No explanation nothing.
February 21, 2025
Enjoyed it
The final book in this series doesn't disappoint at all. So many roller-coaster emotions and rides happen. Truths are revealed, and egos are definitely bruised. Enjoyed it
The final book in this series doesn't disappoint at all. So many roller-coaster emotions and rides happen. Truths are revealed, and egos are definitely bruised. Enjoyed it
April 23, 2025
The whole story of the last book felt more than a little rushed. We get a lot of answers but somehow there isn't much happening storywise. More like redundant dialogues.
There are a few plotholes and some things don't quite make sense, like Elora continously not getting the most obvious things.
Still, I enjoyed this series enough to give it three stars.
There are a few plotholes and some things don't quite make sense, like Elora continously not getting the most obvious things.
Still, I enjoyed this series enough to give it three stars.
April 6, 2025
And… the end. A rushed conclusion for a really original premise. So many things gone wrong with this book.
But first the things that I did liked, the relationship between Callum and Elora. For how long the book is, I understood the quick reconciliation, although the misunderstanding could have been omitted, again because the book is short, that part of the story should have been used to develop the plot more. I liked that we see them as a true team and you can feel the love between them, they truly feel like family to each other.
I liked that we get to know a little more about the characters that surround them and a little more about the town. I also liked the conspiracy of the elders and that we finally got to know what Elora’s mom did and why.
Now, for the things that I found utterly disappointing. The pregnancy trope, which I happen to change my opinion throughout the plot. At first I thought it was something unnecessary, then as a plot developed, the pregnancy made sense because it looked that it was the reason things were going to change, then as we found out the true plans of the elders, the pregnancy became as it initially was, unnecessary.
Now for the whole problem in the town, it was horribly done. It was rushed and inconclusive, it left so many things open, and it would have been fine if the problem only affected the main characters, but it wasn’t the case and the people were in danger, and apparently that didn’t matter at all. We don’t get to know anything else about Paradise or the elders, and the cherry on top, the main characters find a perfect society at the end of the road and everything is fine, and they just assume that the people and their friends are fine. Which leads us to the horrendous conclusion of the side characters, that felt patched up and not thought out.
So in the end, it was sadly a bad trilogy, when the premise was awesome, there weren’t fae, shadows, secret royal lines, basically all the things that in romantasy are overused. It was a breath of fresh air, and in the end all the unique parts were killed in this book. So yes, I was disappointed.
But first the things that I did liked, the relationship between Callum and Elora. For how long the book is, I understood the quick reconciliation, although the misunderstanding could have been omitted, again because the book is short, that part of the story should have been used to develop the plot more. I liked that we see them as a true team and you can feel the love between them, they truly feel like family to each other.
I liked that we get to know a little more about the characters that surround them and a little more about the town. I also liked the conspiracy of the elders and that we finally got to know what Elora’s mom did and why.
Now, for the things that I found utterly disappointing. The pregnancy trope, which I happen to change my opinion throughout the plot. At first I thought it was something unnecessary, then as a plot developed, the pregnancy made sense because it looked that it was the reason things were going to change, then as we found out the true plans of the elders, the pregnancy became as it initially was, unnecessary.
Now for the whole problem in the town, it was horribly done. It was rushed and inconclusive, it left so many things open, and it would have been fine if the problem only affected the main characters, but it wasn’t the case and the people were in danger, and apparently that didn’t matter at all. We don’t get to know anything else about Paradise or the elders, and the cherry on top, the main characters find a perfect society at the end of the road and everything is fine, and they just assume that the people and their friends are fine. Which leads us to the horrendous conclusion of the side characters, that felt patched up and not thought out.
So in the end, it was sadly a bad trilogy, when the premise was awesome, there weren’t fae, shadows, secret royal lines, basically all the things that in romantasy are overused. It was a breath of fresh air, and in the end all the unique parts were killed in this book. So yes, I was disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2025
Elora is out jogging and not feeling very energetic, when she sees Ari going into the woods. I know I wanted to talk to her about what I found in my mother’s journals. Elora fallows Ari into the woods and Ari asks her what she wants as she folds away a map she had in her hand. As she tries to ask Ari questions about her mother and Ari’s mother she deflects all the questions. Elora asks Ari if she ever sees Veric and she shakes her head no, when out of the woods Veric comes. Elora says hi but he just nods he hasn’t spoken since the day his father was killed.
As Elora heads back in from the woods and goes to her friend Beva’s house to talk with her as she is due to leave for the university the next day, Beva notices how tried Elora is and Gold Keepers don’t normally get tired or sick, when suddenly Beva is letting Elora smell her new perfume and Elora is getting sick. It leaves Beva to surmise that Elora may be pregnant. Beva goes to the store and buy not one but three pregnancy tests. When Elora does the test she is pregnant. Elora is not sure what to do because Callum has been acting so mean to her.
What is Elora to do with a physical in 3 days before she goes into the woods as a Gold Keeper and if the council finds out she is pregnant. Will they take the baby from her. She goes to Callum’s to talk with him and he refuses to talk with her. Elora comes up with a plan to save her baby but this is a drastic change of plans when the council shows up at her house to do a physical on her unannounced. What will happen when they run the urine and blood and find out she is pregnant? Or if they find out about Teth and Callum there are laws. What does Elora and Callum find in the new science building. As more and more information come out and Elora and Callum run into woods save themselves. Will they be able to find safety between the worlds and a place for them and their baby?
As Elora heads back in from the woods and goes to her friend Beva’s house to talk with her as she is due to leave for the university the next day, Beva notices how tried Elora is and Gold Keepers don’t normally get tired or sick, when suddenly Beva is letting Elora smell her new perfume and Elora is getting sick. It leaves Beva to surmise that Elora may be pregnant. Beva goes to the store and buy not one but three pregnancy tests. When Elora does the test she is pregnant. Elora is not sure what to do because Callum has been acting so mean to her.
What is Elora to do with a physical in 3 days before she goes into the woods as a Gold Keeper and if the council finds out she is pregnant. Will they take the baby from her. She goes to Callum’s to talk with him and he refuses to talk with her. Elora comes up with a plan to save her baby but this is a drastic change of plans when the council shows up at her house to do a physical on her unannounced. What will happen when they run the urine and blood and find out she is pregnant? Or if they find out about Teth and Callum there are laws. What does Elora and Callum find in the new science building. As more and more information come out and Elora and Callum run into woods save themselves. Will they be able to find safety between the worlds and a place for them and their baby?
June 25, 2025
I just finished Bonded Ever After, The Royal Gold Keepers a few hours ago and I took some time to work through it in my mind. I loved the series as it was fresh with an original premise that hadn't been done to death which is unusual in Romantasy these days. Not everyone can be Sarah Maas, but I think this author has not only a singular talent but has room to grow on her technique and storytelling abilities. Overall, I just loved this series.
Of the three, I really can't pick a favorite and there are some bombshells dropped in this book about the answers our heroes sought, as well as things that caught the characters completely off guard. First, the Council is seriously demented and deserves everything coming to them. I'm glad our heroes best friends find their own happily ever afters too. There even a chance Beva might get her own story was Xerex, a secondary character who saved the lives of both Elora and Callum in separate incidents. I really enjoyed Xerex's character and have my fingers crossed he gets a story where he's Beva's knight in shining armor.
The only issue I have with this book was the ending was a bit anticlimactic. Yes, the heroes saved the day and got their answers, but I just felt like everything was so dangerously deadly in Neverwood that the Cloud Realm felt too easy and the answers they received too pat. Don't get me wrong, I loved the books and would recommend them in a heartbeat. I just feel like after every person, animal, plant and ecosystem was trying to kill the heroes through 2 3/4 of 3 books only to end up in a place where *nothing* is dangerous? That just made me a bit uncomfortable, like when you have an itch but scratching it just makes it itch more? Regardless, I enjoyed the series and hope to read more of Ms. Anderson's work.
My recommendation is for 17+ on age range due to steamy scenes without being pure smut and I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Of the three, I really can't pick a favorite and there are some bombshells dropped in this book about the answers our heroes sought, as well as things that caught the characters completely off guard. First, the Council is seriously demented and deserves everything coming to them. I'm glad our heroes best friends find their own happily ever afters too. There even a chance Beva might get her own story was Xerex, a secondary character who saved the lives of both Elora and Callum in separate incidents. I really enjoyed Xerex's character and have my fingers crossed he gets a story where he's Beva's knight in shining armor.
The only issue I have with this book was the ending was a bit anticlimactic. Yes, the heroes saved the day and got their answers, but I just felt like everything was so dangerously deadly in Neverwood that the Cloud Realm felt too easy and the answers they received too pat. Don't get me wrong, I loved the books and would recommend them in a heartbeat. I just feel like after every person, animal, plant and ecosystem was trying to kill the heroes through 2 3/4 of 3 books only to end up in a place where *nothing* is dangerous? That just made me a bit uncomfortable, like when you have an itch but scratching it just makes it itch more? Regardless, I enjoyed the series and hope to read more of Ms. Anderson's work.
My recommendation is for 17+ on age range due to steamy scenes without being pure smut and I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 23, 2025
I need more of this world! Love, love, LOVE this series!
This is definitely my absolute favorite series by LCA. I was hooked from the first book to this last one – the world that LCA created for the Royal Gold Keeper series is absolutely amazing, with characters that have such fantastic depth. Argh I can’t believe that it ends here! Pretty please make more books in this world because I need MORE!
In this last book of the Royal Gold Keepers series, Elora and Callum are back in Paradise Falls. Things start getting weird with the Council, and they discover that the Council is planning on doing something absolutely horrible to them – since they are the last Gold Keepers. They have to escape from the town quickly before they are captured, especially since Elora has a secret that could really have things go badly for them. But at least their friends also try to escape using the old path.
Callum and Elora must travel to places in Neverwood that they have very little information on that could be very dangerous. Based on their previous travels, they know better than to trust anything that seems too good to be true…. Until they reach the end of the path. What they discover there is absolutely NOT what they expected.
I really don’t want to ruin the book, but let’s just say that they are able to get their HEA – but the ending could open it up to more books in this world with their friends who have also ended up in Neverwood. I would love to read THEIR stories!!!
Absolutely 100% recommend reading this book and the series – I can’t tell you enough how much I loved this book!
This is definitely my absolute favorite series by LCA. I was hooked from the first book to this last one – the world that LCA created for the Royal Gold Keeper series is absolutely amazing, with characters that have such fantastic depth. Argh I can’t believe that it ends here! Pretty please make more books in this world because I need MORE!
In this last book of the Royal Gold Keepers series, Elora and Callum are back in Paradise Falls. Things start getting weird with the Council, and they discover that the Council is planning on doing something absolutely horrible to them – since they are the last Gold Keepers. They have to escape from the town quickly before they are captured, especially since Elora has a secret that could really have things go badly for them. But at least their friends also try to escape using the old path.
Callum and Elora must travel to places in Neverwood that they have very little information on that could be very dangerous. Based on their previous travels, they know better than to trust anything that seems too good to be true…. Until they reach the end of the path. What they discover there is absolutely NOT what they expected.
I really don’t want to ruin the book, but let’s just say that they are able to get their HEA – but the ending could open it up to more books in this world with their friends who have also ended up in Neverwood. I would love to read THEIR stories!!!
Absolutely 100% recommend reading this book and the series – I can’t tell you enough how much I loved this book!
February 21, 2025
I cannot express how much I just absolutely loved this story. Callum was a difficult character and had me wonder many times if he could make me like him and then by the end of this story I just absolutely adore him. I love that him and Elora finally work out their issues and find their way back to each other. They have finally found out what happened to Eloras mom and realize they are no longer safe in Paradise Falls and have to flee into Neverwood to save themselves. I loved finally learning what makes them unique and how they were able to go into this magical land and handle the goldarium. They also learn of the fate of their fathers and why they ran. Overall this book wraps up the story really well. I just would have loved to see more of their time in the new world. At the end it’s left off almost like there might be another story to come out of it involving their friends that fled from Paradise Falls as well. If so I will excitedly jump into the story to be able to learn more. I cannot say enough good things about this story and this series. I found it to be a unique story line and just loved everything about it. If you love mystery and a good enemies to lovers story line this series would be for you
February 20, 2025
Bonded Ever After by Lacey Carter Andersen is book three in The Royal Gold Keepers series. I was eager for this book after the second one ended and what a journey this has been. This is the final book in the series so you must read them in order as this one picks up where the last one ended. I flew through this book, I’ve been invested since the start and I needed to know how it all ended. The characters were interesting with a complex undertone. I really dug the Council plot and how immoral it was. But Elora and Callum were what kept me coming back; I really enjoyed their story and how it developed over the course of the three books. I had so many questions throughout the read but really liked some of what came to light. I liked the ending a lot but to me it felt like a happily for now verses a happily ever after. The door was definitely left open for more and I personally wouldn’t mind seeing some of the side characters get their own story. Overall I thought it was written well with good character development and good worldbuilding. Would definitely recommend it if you enjoy an enemies to lovers story set in a fantasy world.
Final review:
4 out of 5 stars
Final review:
4 out of 5 stars
February 20, 2025
Third and final book in this series, things pick up where book two left off. Elora and Callum are back in Paradise Falls, but things are rocky between the two because of Callum's ego and jealousy. Now, there is heavy conflict between them and Elora discovers something that will change both their lives forever. Now, the danger mounts as the Council is looking to control them by any means necessary - which pushes them to run.
Cue up lots of drama in Bonded Ever After. Elora and Callum go the deepest they've ever gone in Neverwood, and leave their friends behind. But along the way they discover more secrets and make a huge discovery.
This book is good, but it could have gone on for another book or even two. Readers would have gotten more detail, and just more overall. This final installment starts feeling like a rush to close it all up before the end. Questions are left unanswered, and it honestly takes a weird twist at one point with a certain reunion making the family dynamics potentially weird (you'll see).
There are hints of spin-offs, but this book ended on a flatter note than it should have. The series was good, but the ending was lack-luster and left tons of questions.
Cue up lots of drama in Bonded Ever After. Elora and Callum go the deepest they've ever gone in Neverwood, and leave their friends behind. But along the way they discover more secrets and make a huge discovery.
This book is good, but it could have gone on for another book or even two. Readers would have gotten more detail, and just more overall. This final installment starts feeling like a rush to close it all up before the end. Questions are left unanswered, and it honestly takes a weird twist at one point with a certain reunion making the family dynamics potentially weird (you'll see).
There are hints of spin-offs, but this book ended on a flatter note than it should have. The series was good, but the ending was lack-luster and left tons of questions.
February 28, 2025
The finale of the Royal Gold Keepers books closed lots of doors and brings a host of questions in its wake!
Elora and Callum are home, and neither want to be there. In Neverwood, they have freedom they’ve never had before and want to keep.
As their discomfort grows the two know something is on the horizon, but don’t know how to prepare for the moves the Council is making or the changes that are going to come into their lives.
This book is filled with lots of anxious action in the sense of I needed to keep reading to know what was going to happen. There were definitely some shocking moments as well, particularly in the final chapters. I did find the ending a bit anticlimactic as there was a great build up to things happening in Paradise Falls and Neverwood, and they kind of just resolved. The author left herself some great openings to revisit this world and use spinoffs for supporting characters to finish the total story arc, so I’m hopeful that this is what will happen.
All told, this was a decent series by an author I’ve enjoyed reading in the past, and I look forward to reading more of.
Elora and Callum are home, and neither want to be there. In Neverwood, they have freedom they’ve never had before and want to keep.
As their discomfort grows the two know something is on the horizon, but don’t know how to prepare for the moves the Council is making or the changes that are going to come into their lives.
This book is filled with lots of anxious action in the sense of I needed to keep reading to know what was going to happen. There were definitely some shocking moments as well, particularly in the final chapters. I did find the ending a bit anticlimactic as there was a great build up to things happening in Paradise Falls and Neverwood, and they kind of just resolved. The author left herself some great openings to revisit this world and use spinoffs for supporting characters to finish the total story arc, so I’m hopeful that this is what will happen.
All told, this was a decent series by an author I’ve enjoyed reading in the past, and I look forward to reading more of.
April 24, 2025
Thank you to Book Sirens and Lacey Carter Anderson for the ARC.
Plot 3/5
Characters 3/5
Ending 3.5/5
Interest 3.5/5
Overall 3/5
-I was glad that I got this book and that it seemed to be the final book in the series. But I was then thrown into an accidental pregnancy trope which ruined everything. I truly considered DNFing this book after that but it’s the third and final book of a series I started and a short one at that, so I thought I would stick through it. Other than that, the plot itself really raised the stakes in this book. And because of this, it did go a little all over the place. Things felt rushed and the book was too short with what was going on.
-The characters are basically the same as they’ve always been but the one difference is that she was pregnant and once he found out, he turned into the perfect boyfriend to her. That didn’t sit right with me. He had been such an asshole to her and kept this facade of him hating her but he finds out about her pregnancy, he’s suddenly so happy and admits his love for her and now their relationship is perfect. I just expected more. Other than them, the side characters were quite involved at the beginning of the book but then we basically didn’t hear anything about them.
-The ending was so unexpected. And it wasn’t particularly in a good way. I still don’t know how I feel about the ending because in a way it was good because it was very open and it leaves a lot to my imagination, but on the other hand, it was a little too open and it felt so far fetched. It felt like the author just wanted to end the story so thought about something and made it so that the characters reached that ending. It was a little disappointing.
Plot 3/5
Characters 3/5
Ending 3.5/5
Interest 3.5/5
Overall 3/5
-I was glad that I got this book and that it seemed to be the final book in the series. But I was then thrown into an accidental pregnancy trope which ruined everything. I truly considered DNFing this book after that but it’s the third and final book of a series I started and a short one at that, so I thought I would stick through it. Other than that, the plot itself really raised the stakes in this book. And because of this, it did go a little all over the place. Things felt rushed and the book was too short with what was going on.
-The characters are basically the same as they’ve always been but the one difference is that she was pregnant and once he found out, he turned into the perfect boyfriend to her. That didn’t sit right with me. He had been such an asshole to her and kept this facade of him hating her but he finds out about her pregnancy, he’s suddenly so happy and admits his love for her and now their relationship is perfect. I just expected more. Other than them, the side characters were quite involved at the beginning of the book but then we basically didn’t hear anything about them.
-The ending was so unexpected. And it wasn’t particularly in a good way. I still don’t know how I feel about the ending because in a way it was good because it was very open and it leaves a lot to my imagination, but on the other hand, it was a little too open and it felt so far fetched. It felt like the author just wanted to end the story so thought about something and made it so that the characters reached that ending. It was a little disappointing.
February 23, 2025
I don’t have many downsides to this book, if any. My only complaint is that it felt rushed. However, that could also be in part because I genuinely loved this world, and series, and didn’t want it to end. I was completely taken by surprise with the final reveal, which is so difficult for me. I love when books actually have a twist I don’t see coming. I was a little ehhh about the …relationship reveal(?) In the end, only because of the technical but not actual relations. But not enough to put me off the whole ending. Just to kind of think twice about it.
It did make my little heart happy to see how protective Callum became, and that his possessiveness did eventually turn into protectiveness. The possessiveness was starting to get a bit too “red flag”-esque for my liking. Though I did love how Elora never stopped putting him in his place for it.
I’m really hoping for a spin off or even just a standalone with our favorite bird man to see how things went for him.
All-in-all, I loved the book, and series, and am really sad that it’s over.
It did make my little heart happy to see how protective Callum became, and that his possessiveness did eventually turn into protectiveness. The possessiveness was starting to get a bit too “red flag”-esque for my liking. Though I did love how Elora never stopped putting him in his place for it.
I’m really hoping for a spin off or even just a standalone with our favorite bird man to see how things went for him.
All-in-all, I loved the book, and series, and am really sad that it’s over.
February 23, 2025
Paradise Falls isn't the place it seems to be, and Elora and Callum are going to find out in probably the worst way possible. If Neverwood is the safer place to be, what does it tell about Paradise Falls.. Now, they need to find a way out, survive, and maybe even find a place to flee.
I had maybe quite high expectations of this book, as the world building especially when it comes to Neverwood was fascinating, I liked the development in the previous books, and was looking forward to see how Elora and Callum will face the challenges and find a way towards each other. But to be honest, this book left me more confused and disappointed than satisfied. It felt fully rushed, the climax in my opinion happened in the middle of the book and the other half was simply a long epilogue that brought no real excitement, I was constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop - which never came, and the conclusion was also very puzzling. I finished the book asking myself what just happened, and it did not leave a good impression on me. Sadly, I cannot give a better review.
I had maybe quite high expectations of this book, as the world building especially when it comes to Neverwood was fascinating, I liked the development in the previous books, and was looking forward to see how Elora and Callum will face the challenges and find a way towards each other. But to be honest, this book left me more confused and disappointed than satisfied. It felt fully rushed, the climax in my opinion happened in the middle of the book and the other half was simply a long epilogue that brought no real excitement, I was constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop - which never came, and the conclusion was also very puzzling. I finished the book asking myself what just happened, and it did not leave a good impression on me. Sadly, I cannot give a better review.
March 2, 2025
Bonded Ever After by Lacey Carter Anderson is a riveting paranormal romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Elora and Callum continue their thrilling journey filled with unexpected surprises and significant revelations. The story is packed with action as they delve into the council's plans for them, forcing them to make crucial decisions. While the pacing is brisk—and at times can feel a tad rushed—it's still an exhilarating read brimming with twists that kept me thoroughly engaged.
If you're a fan of fast-paced paranormal enemies-to-lovers stories, this book is a must-read. It masterfully weaves themes of magic, alternate worlds, supernatural creatures, betrayals, and spicy moments. Lacey Carter Anderson has a gift for crafting series that are not only steamy but also action-driven. Since this is not the first book in the series, I highly recommend reading the first two installments of the Royal Gold Keepers series before diving in. And don’t forget to explore her other series—they're just as captivating!
If you're a fan of fast-paced paranormal enemies-to-lovers stories, this book is a must-read. It masterfully weaves themes of magic, alternate worlds, supernatural creatures, betrayals, and spicy moments. Lacey Carter Anderson has a gift for crafting series that are not only steamy but also action-driven. Since this is not the first book in the series, I highly recommend reading the first two installments of the Royal Gold Keepers series before diving in. And don’t forget to explore her other series—they're just as captivating!
July 19, 2025
Just... this has so much potential and then.. bluh. So they bag like bunnies in the second novel and then hello she's pregnant and then suddenly she goes from high schooler trying to find her dad to OMG MY BAAABY in about 2 seconds flat. Then he goes from moody teen who is even more of an asshole than he was in the last book to a flipped switch who can't wait to be a daddy? Wooo sorry, I don't downshift that fast.
Then apparently it took 15+ years so build a damn building because her mom got killed over the last one and needed blueprints to get in to destroy it, but Elora and her teen friends just swipe a keycard and walk in? Sure. THEN all of them are too dumb to figure out what's being planned so the adults have to monologue about it a few chapters later. It's really not much of a stretch to think that perhaps the town would like more than two gold keepers. ALSO why would they need to wait until they are adult enough for sex if they could have gotten eggs and sperm at any other time in their lives? Sooo many plot holes.
Then apparently it took 15+ years so build a damn building because her mom got killed over the last one and needed blueprints to get in to destroy it, but Elora and her teen friends just swipe a keycard and walk in? Sure. THEN all of them are too dumb to figure out what's being planned so the adults have to monologue about it a few chapters later. It's really not much of a stretch to think that perhaps the town would like more than two gold keepers. ALSO why would they need to wait until they are adult enough for sex if they could have gotten eggs and sperm at any other time in their lives? Sooo many plot holes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2025
What an amazing read this was!!! I was all over the place in my emotions. In true Lacey fashion I was taken on a ride with twists and turns. So many personal refections and revelations. Hooked is definitely a word I would use. I mean we would have to wrap things up as it is the last book in the series, but it ended beautifully. Well done Lacey.
So this series was one that I have pushed to the top of the list of my favorite of hers. The Royal Gold Keeper with Elora and Callum was gold.
So Elora nd Callum are back at Paradise Falls, the Council that I dislike, of course is getting weird. Especially when they find out their plans. Thus starts their final journey , a bit wiser in their quest. The journey is so worth the read. But the question is do they get their HEA?
A amazing series that ends, fantastically. I would 100 percent recommend this series and frankly any one of Lacey's books.
So this series was one that I have pushed to the top of the list of my favorite of hers. The Royal Gold Keeper with Elora and Callum was gold.
So Elora nd Callum are back at Paradise Falls, the Council that I dislike, of course is getting weird. Especially when they find out their plans. Thus starts their final journey , a bit wiser in their quest. The journey is so worth the read. But the question is do they get their HEA?
A amazing series that ends, fantastically. I would 100 percent recommend this series and frankly any one of Lacey's books.
February 20, 2025
Let me just just start by saying that although I like everything I have read so far by this author I absolutely loved this and think it is the best thing she has ever written!
Callum and Elora once they come to terms with their personal situation have to plan to escape the evil council and their shocking plans for the future of the two Goldkeepers.
This is such an amazing ending for this story which had more twists than a corkscrew! It contained excitement , suspense and jaw dropping reveals and I loved every minute. I would like to see a follow up though. There was a certain group of 4 people that we don't know the fate of. The final chapter of the book is 10 months on from the previous chapter so serves as an an epilogue and there is no mention of these 4 characters so it doesn't look as though they found Callum and Elora and I would like to know their fate.
This book is very deserving of a 5 star rating
Callum and Elora once they come to terms with their personal situation have to plan to escape the evil council and their shocking plans for the future of the two Goldkeepers.
This is such an amazing ending for this story which had more twists than a corkscrew! It contained excitement , suspense and jaw dropping reveals and I loved every minute. I would like to see a follow up though. There was a certain group of 4 people that we don't know the fate of. The final chapter of the book is 10 months on from the previous chapter so serves as an an epilogue and there is no mention of these 4 characters so it doesn't look as though they found Callum and Elora and I would like to know their fate.
This book is very deserving of a 5 star rating
February 25, 2025
Great story!
If you looked up forbidden romance, this book would be the definition! From book 1, I was sucked in because of the hate and rivalry between Elora and Callum. It's that kind of animosity that you just know there will be fireworks when they finally give in. Throughout the series, you're really thrown off by how different Callum is because of the rules set in place. That being said, there are so many twists and turns. You don't know who to trust, or what's really happening. There are so many questions and you'll get the answers, just be prepared to be blown away. Trust the process, because they do get their HEA. It's just a lot of work and a twisty journey to get there. There's so much character development and such a great imagery of this town and it's inhabitants!
If you looked up forbidden romance, this book would be the definition! From book 1, I was sucked in because of the hate and rivalry between Elora and Callum. It's that kind of animosity that you just know there will be fireworks when they finally give in. Throughout the series, you're really thrown off by how different Callum is because of the rules set in place. That being said, there are so many twists and turns. You don't know who to trust, or what's really happening. There are so many questions and you'll get the answers, just be prepared to be blown away. Trust the process, because they do get their HEA. It's just a lot of work and a twisty journey to get there. There's so much character development and such a great imagery of this town and it's inhabitants!
June 2, 2025
I have found that I prefer the length of trilogies when reading series, IF they are well written, naturally. Stand-alones and duologies tend to be too short to achieve the depth of story and characters that I crave. I can enjoy four books in a series, too, but very few authors manage to keep the story interesting and plot twists fascinating for such a long story.
"Bonded Ever After" is the last novel of this trilogy, and after a bumpy start where I considered not finishing the first book, I am happy to say that it was worth hanging in there. The author's writing developed and improved over time.
The characters, the enemies-to-lovers conflict leading to the final romance, and the ending were all worth it in the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"Bonded Ever After" is the last novel of this trilogy, and after a bumpy start where I considered not finishing the first book, I am happy to say that it was worth hanging in there. The author's writing developed and improved over time.
The characters, the enemies-to-lovers conflict leading to the final romance, and the ending were all worth it in the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 9, 2025
While this series is sort-of YA/NA, I still find it a great series, so I was excited to see this latest book. Callum and Elora are at odds at the beginning of this because of some misunderstandings (I hate that in a book), but soon there are much bigger problems to worry about. We finally find out some truths in this book, and things just explode from there. Then it becomes an action-filled adventure where they are fleeing for their lives. I must admit that I’m not sure if this is the last one or not, but it could end here and in a good way. However, I’d like one more to see what happened with…well, read it and find out. Action-filled, engaging, unique, and well-written. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
February 14, 2025
As Callum and Elora finds out just how wicked the Council is, they make a mad dash for Everwood. Where they once again meet Xarex - that dude is seriously the sweetest thing!
Beva, who is super excited to be leaving for University outside Paradise, is equally surprised and that storyline is one I would absolutely love to read more from!
I enjoyed this book - the whole series, but I felt by the end, that it was left sort of on a cliffhanger.
This is the final book in the Gold Keeper trilogy, but I really hope we will hear more from Beva, Ari, Veric and OH! Why can't I remember his name! I would love spin offs from those 4!
Not to mention, to hear more from the Phoenix Trail in general!
There definitely are surprises in this action filled finale. It's worth the time.
Beva, who is super excited to be leaving for University outside Paradise, is equally surprised and that storyline is one I would absolutely love to read more from!
I enjoyed this book - the whole series, but I felt by the end, that it was left sort of on a cliffhanger.
This is the final book in the Gold Keeper trilogy, but I really hope we will hear more from Beva, Ari, Veric and OH! Why can't I remember his name! I would love spin offs from those 4!
Not to mention, to hear more from the Phoenix Trail in general!
There definitely are surprises in this action filled finale. It's worth the time.
February 18, 2025
The story carried on from where the last book finished. Callum and Elora are back in paradise falls and must act like they hate each other. Except does Callum really hate Elora his acting is just a little too good and the things he says to her a little too cutting. Can they get back to how they were in Neverwood, will their secret relationship survive this? Lots of twists and turns a middle you didn’t see coming and a very different ending to what I thought it would be. I can’t help wandering if there will be a spin off series to tie up loose ends for their friends and their escape from paradise falls. I hope so it would be nice to revisit Callum and Elora in their new lives and getting to have all the friends they cared about with them would be the icing on the cake.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2025
Absolute Whirlwind!
From the start on page one the reader is taken on an emotional whirlwind. With so many twists, turns, revelations and personal reflections from some of the characters.
I appreciated the detailed world/ realm building. I was able to develop a picture in my mind with the thorough descriptions.
The relationships between characters flowed so well. With my insatiable need for answers I flew through this story. I enjoyed the series finale but I am still curious about some of the lesser characters and where their stories end up. Sad the journey has been fulfilled.
I would and do recommend this series to readers who enjoy getting immersed in a Fantasy World.
From the start on page one the reader is taken on an emotional whirlwind. With so many twists, turns, revelations and personal reflections from some of the characters.
I appreciated the detailed world/ realm building. I was able to develop a picture in my mind with the thorough descriptions.
The relationships between characters flowed so well. With my insatiable need for answers I flew through this story. I enjoyed the series finale but I am still curious about some of the lesser characters and where their stories end up. Sad the journey has been fulfilled.
I would and do recommend this series to readers who enjoy getting immersed in a Fantasy World.
April 30, 2025
I had mixed feelings on this one. The start had me dragging my feet a bit, anxious as to the direction things would go. Once the MCs decided what they wanted I was very excited and zipped through the main body of the book. This section was super interesting and a great time for the character development of some support characters while the MCs moved along their chosen path. The ending however seemed both to leave too many unanswered questions and to wrap up a lot/ tie up matters very fast. It was harder to relate to, as the MCs just seemed content/ not to ask many questions. I hope all this is because there will be a spinoff that digs more into the loose ends and shows more of the fall out for the MCs!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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