In a world where shapeshifters are hunted, Aislinn’s family lives a life of secrecy, traveling as traders to avoid discovery. They’ve learned that life may be safer in the small mountain town of Frenhill, but as they make the journey south, their luck finally runs out. They’re attacked by the king’s guards and her parents fight back, giving Aislinn and her little brother, Liam, the chance to escape. To run. To hide in the unforgiving wilderness.
Aislinn must navigate the challenges of survival while she also learns how to control her own unique powers. She’s a soulshifter who’s magic has a dark history, which triggered the war between humans and shapeshifters 300 years ago.
They’re journey to Frenhill becomes a harrowing test of wit and endurance, as they evade the relentless pursuit of the guards, survive the encroaching grip of winter, and encounter a menacing wolf pack where she discovers an unexpected ally.
Will Aislinn embrace her powers or will their ominous past hold her back from unlocking her true potential?
Gina has been a lifelong dreamer of fantastical worlds. As a young girl she found a passion in crafting stories, but never found herself in a position to fully pursue it. After years of dreaming about becoming an author, she decided to finally commit to writing the story she's carried with her for the past 20 years. She's currently working on her debut fantasy shapeshifter series, "Bonded in Blood."
For almost 20 years, I've been thinking about three characters: Aislinn, Liam, and Rune. These characters first came to me when I was just a girl, and their voices have stayed with me my whole life, urging me to tell their story.
This novella marks the beginning of their journey, a significant moment in their lives that I have tried to write multiple times over the years. Writing and indie publishing this story has been a labor of love, and I am thrilled to finally share it with you.
I hope you enjoy their adventure as much as I loved finally bringing it to life. Your support and feedback mean the world to me. This is just the beginning, and I'm excited to continue sharing their story with you in the upcoming novel, Hunted.
Thank you to Gina for the chance to beta and ARC read this book!
Hide is excellent. The characters are well fleshed out and feel very real, the world and magic are rich and well built without there ever being a feeling of info-dumping or confusion. The story is well paced and in just a little novella, you get sucked right in and root for these characters like you’ve spent 400 pages with them. This story is emotional and sets the reader up to *need to know* what happens next. Gina also has a way of making you feel what her characters feel both physically and emotionally. The prose is beautiful. I can’t wait for Hunted!
I read this book 2nd, and I still really enjoyed it in this order. it answered questions I had, and I was able to easily tie everything together. This fantasy series is so unique!!! I absolutely love it🩷
I'm not usually one to gravitate towards YA books but Hide is the perfect example that we should give a book a chance.
Ashley (Ash) has dangerous powers that causes her, her parents and her brother to live life on the road. Always running. Always hiding.
But, as danger gets closer and closer, Ash, her brother, Liam and a wolf will have to form an unlikely alliance if they want to survive their trek to The Sanctuary.
Thank you for selection me to be an ARC reader for this novella.
When I first found this book the blurb and teased plot sounded exciting and fresh. I was worried that since this is an indie author that the blurb and story might not line up and be as exciting as I hoped but boy was i wrong.
This novella kept me on the edge of me seat and wanting more! Read in one full sitting, this book follows Aislinn and her family as they try to reach a safe place and a place where they belong in the world but unfortunately it isn't a smooth journey for them.
The world building is done in such a way that it is not overbearing or takes away from the story but introduces you slowly and builds on the overall story.
The characters are beautifully balanced with Aislinn being a strong female character but isn't an overpowered character. Liam's being that young innocence and Runes as a mysterious character.
Cannot wait to see how the world and characters develop in the coming books
There was no doubt in my mind that this book wasn't going to be a five-star book! I was gripped from the very beginning and was sent on a heart-wrenching journey through the windlerness, desperation, survival, and strength. bravery and determination. The Journey Aislinn undertakes to protect her brother Liam at all costs knows no bounds. Through the forest in their journey along worh those creatures they meet. Are they friend and will help them on their journey, or are the foe? Read and fi d out for yourselves. Truly magical writing that captivates you from the very first page. I had to force myself to put this book down. Well done, Gina! 👏 xxx
I was thrilled to receive an eARC from Gina Elizabeth of her upcoming novella "Hide."
In a world where shapeshifters are hunted 🐺🗡️, Aislinn’s family lives a life of secrecy. However, their luck finally runs out when they are discovered by the king’s guards. Her parents fight back valiantly, giving Aislinn and her little brother, Liam, a chance to escape. To run. To hide in the unforgiving wilderness 🌲.
With winter approaching 🌨️ and danger lurking at every turn 🏹, Aislinn must navigate the perils of survival while struggling to master her unique soulshifting powers.
During their journey, they encounter a lone shifter boy who has been hiding for years. Together, they face tough decisions: seeking refuge in a shifter Sanctuary or risking exposure to find safety in a nearby town.
I thoroughly enjoyed "Hide," It's an immersive and gripping introduction to this new world 🌍. The next book in the "Bonded by Blood" series, "Hunted," is set to be released in 2025.
For a novella, there’s a lot packed into it. The world-building is incredibly well done, and the characters are richly developed. Even in such a short space, I grew attached to them. This book got my heart pumping and even brought me to tears 😢. So, to say I’m excited for the next book is an understatement 🥳📚.
Thank you to Gina for selecting me to be an ARC reader! This was the first book I’ve been selected for an ARC and I was beyond excited to read it!!
And boy did Gina deliver!! Hide is a fantastic book! 4.5 ⭐️ Upon receiving my e-copy, I was a little nervous after realizing was so small. But HOLY MOLY! Elizabeth knows how to write and keep her readers chained to the words! The amount of descriptions and amazing plot had me on the edge of my seat itching for more! It felt as though I couldn’t get it fast enough. If you’re looking for something that ISN’T what every small author is writing these days, you’ll find it with Hide. Overall, the story was fantastic, well paced and wonderfully written! I cannot wait to see what the next book has in store for us!!
[SPOILERS START HERE]
There is one thing I would like to touch on that was gnawing at me. Specifically in the beginning, we are thrown into this family journey which is great! I love being tossed into the middle of action! However, I do think a little more of an introduction to who Aislinn and her family is would help connect readers a little more to the characters. It seemed very sudden that Aislinn couldn’t figure out her powers and then all of a sudden she did! I would’ve been a lot more excited for her had I had more foundation of a love for this character.
Over all a great read!
[Favorite Line]
“Their eagerness to wet their teeth with the blood of the men who took their leader does nothing to quell my own dark desires.” -Elizabeth. WHAT AN AMAZING LINE OMGGGG!
*Thank you to Gina Elizabeth for the ARC of this book ♡* 4.5* I really enjoyed this novella, a really interesting prequel to what I imagine is going to be an amazing fantasy series :) The magic/shifting aspect of the story is well explained, as is the lore of Emlybria. I love how fiercely protective Aislinn is of her little brother Liam. They have a very loving and strong sibling bond. So excited to see how both of their relationships develop with Rune and how he comes back into the story.
I cannot believe how unbelievably lucky I am to have been chosen as an ARC reader. I was not sure what to expect, but I knew from the blurb I had to visit this world, and I was not disappointed.
From the beginning I felt a strong connection to the characters and the world on which they live. If I hadn’t had to work all weekend I would have devoured this in a day. The story was gripping and held my attention until the end. My only complaint is how long I’ll now have to wait for Hunted.
Just finished it and all I can say is, wow! This was a great ride! I love the storyline, it's greatly written and original. The characters come to life and you just want to know more. It's a novella, so you just get a glimpse of this world, but it sounds so good. I just wanna continue reading! Please, please, please, give me more. I love it and would recommend it to everyone. Thank you for letting me read the arc and I want to definitely have the book physically.
"Do the stars guide your path?" "Only when the moon hides"
This novella absolutely blew my expectations out of the water!
Hide is the prequel in the Bonded in Blood series, I can not wait to see where Gina takes this series because Hide kept me captivated and intrigued until the last page.
13 year old Aislinn is stubborn, strong, fiercely loyal, and determined to protect her little brother Liam. Born into a family of shapeshifters, life is far from easy in the world of Elymbria, where humans ruthlessly hunt and kill shifters. Aislinn must learn to control her magic while bearing secrets that threaten all their lives.
Gina's writing is immersive and gripping. Her world building was perfectly done and easy to follow without overshadowing the amazing storyline.
This little book was such a big story! I can’t believe how much was packed in to just over 100 pages and yet I felt like I’d known the characters and the world forever. If this is just the backstory for the books to come, I can’t wait to see what Gina has in store for us.
*Thank you to my wonderful friend Gina for the ARC!*
Firstly thank you so much for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this novella!
I really loved how easy to follow the world building was, while still finding it extremely entertaining. The characters are extremely likeable and the storyline has enough mystery and intrigue to keep you hooked. Aislinns love and protectiveness of her brother is beautiful to read about and I can't wait to see where her story goes with her powers. The mystery surrounding Rune is also really interesting and the novella has set up the backstory perfectly for the next book!
I loved the writing style, the storyline and the characters and I can't wait ti see where this story goes!
ARC Review! I can’t quite begin to describe how much I loved this story! My favorite part was exploring through Aislinn’s perspective. She’s 13 in this novella, and I don’t usually read books from a teen’s perspective. Gina captured Aislinn’s “teenage-ness” so well as she navigates difficulty and growing up FAST. The only thing I wanted was MORE of the story! Looking forward to continuing Aislinn’s story.
Honestly surprised by how much I loved it. When I had seen the age of the main character I wasn’t sure how well I’d be able to get into it, but oh my gosh I loved it! This story is so emotional, I was reading this in public and had to really hold back my emotions, I just wanted to cry with Ash! I cannot wait to start Hunted tonight and see what became of our young characters in the few years gap!
Summary: Hide - a Bonded in Blood Novella by Gina Elizabeth is a thrilling and suspenseful tale that will captivate fans of dark fantasy and adventure, particularly those who enjoy stories about shapeshifters, wolf packs, and the struggle to control powerful magic, making it a must-read for anyone who loves a good battle between good and evil.
Thoughts: This novella was the perfect set up for the future series, Bonded in Blood - It was so captivating and left me wanting the next book, immediately! I loved all of the world building, characters, and magic system. It was able to feel whimsical while also bringing up darker topics (I suggest checking potential trigger warnings) and as an animal lover, I LOVED all the critters in this beautiful new fantasy world.
4.5* Thank you Gina Elizabeth for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team and receiving the book pre release. This review is without force or influence on this publication.
What a way to capture the readers, from minute one this novella had me on the edge of my seat. The writing style in this novel was brilliant and captivating throughout. I did not want to put this one down.
I am so excited to see what is in store for our FMC and the found family.
Please be aware when you pick up this book to take note of the trigger warnings the the author conveniently mentions at the start.
The FMC in this book certainly goes through a journey however the author does not go lightly on our other main characters gently providing their POV within the book which was a nice touch.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read, and will happily continue the series.
I absolutely gobbled this book up, I need more of this story asap. I can’t wait to see where this story takes us. The building of the characters and the magic was perfect. I loved Gina’s writing and so excited to read more from her in the future
This novella was an incredible journey that gives a glimpse into the beautiful yet difficult world for shapeshifters in the land of Elymbria. Aislinn's story is captivating, exciting, and put me on the edge of my seat, I couldn't stop reading. I'm excited to see what will happen in the novel that will follow!
Thank you Gina for the opportunity to read your Novella
"Just getting started is a phrase for your readers once they finish the Hide!"
Hide was my first step into dark fantasy where we are following the world Aislinn traveling alongside her family learning to use her unique magic alongside her younger brother Liam who's powers manifested early. Theirs an immediate danger of keeping their abilities secret from shifter and human alike dare they be discovered by eyes of kingdom guards, that hunt and slaughter her kin without provocation from a history she does not yet know why.
"Keeping minimal spoilers" during Aislinns journey she has manifested her powers allowing her to connect with the minds of animals rather than shift into others making her an outlier within her family, being the driving factor between her parents. This special case seems to keep the family on a continuous journey not being able to set roots down for long. As the story flows Aislinn is witness to the dark side of how society views her kind and how it'll leave its mark on her world during the journey.
Final thoughts the story gave rise to a grand world with plenty of mystery and wanting to learn even more. From start to end as we learned and got to understand our characters they were each well crafted with each of their personalities well displayed and understood. The pacing never felt like it was stagnating and flowed seamlessly as our characters continued to master their powers, finding ways to survive, and discovering just how much potential in the powers they have, and there won't be a single soul able to keep them from doing whatever is necessary to protect what they love no matter what may come or what they may have to become.
When you finish "Hide" you'll realize it was that amazing appetizer you devoured only when you reach back into an empty plate you find out you're waiting for Gina's next book to come out.
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for Hide by Gina Elizabeth, and let me just say—𝘪𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰 𝘧𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘐 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘐 𝘨𝘰𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘩.
This novella is the official prequel to the Bonded in Blood series, and it reads like a high-stakes survival story with magic, found family, and a hint of something darker waiting just beneath the surface. It follows Aislinn, a soulshifter, and her brother Liam, a shifter, as they flee from the king’s guards after an attack on their family and into the wild. Their bond is everything, and their path is full of danger, betrayal, and the kind of winter that bites harder than most villains.
The pacing? Razor-sharp. The worldbuilding? Woven through the story in a way that felt effortless. Gina gives you just enough info to keep you hooked without overwhelming you with lore dumps. Aislinn’s powers are unique and eerie, and the introduction of an unexpected ally, Rune, adds that deliciously cryptic wildcard energy.
If you’re into shapeshifters, sibling loyalty, found family, and stories that flirt with darker fantasy without diving straight into spice...Hide is the perfect starting point! Can’t wait to see where the series goes next.
** I will also add, that this isn't my usual read & the characters were younger than what I anticipated but the story is just SO FRICKING good I kept reading.
(ARC provided by the author—opinions are all mine!)
i was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book, here is my honest review:
i dont know what luck ive had recently, but this is the 3rd Arc book back-back where the debut book has been phenomenal. im considered a harsh reader, but im incredibly passionate in my reviews that ill be honest. this book from the moment i opened up the book and saw a map of elymbria, i knew we was in for a journey.
i don't post spoilers in my arc reviews, i always encourage readers to give the book a go first rather than spoil anything but i will say this, the characters, the plot were all written so well. (usually when I'm reading a book there's always at least 1 character that's so insufferable that when they appear reading feels like a chore and the book becomes slow paced?, not in this book, all characters i loved.) you will fall in love with Aislinn and her journey, the world was incredible and i am so excited to see where this world and this author takes us
infact my ONLY complaint is so minor its almost laughable and its the reason i gave this 4 stars...the book was to damn short! pls?? i need more! i cant wait for more, thank you for this incredible opportunity
if you enjoy good worldbuilding, adventure, magic, fantasy world then this absolutely is for you!
I absolutely love this ARC novella I received! I can't wait for the next book! This does not feel like an indie author's book at all, nor a debut novella! I read it in less than 2 hours. Once I started, I couldn't put it down! I hate that Goodreads and other sites don't let us rate half stars because its 4.5 for me!
The story follows Aislinn, and her shifter family on their early journey. They can shift in many different forms. Aislinn's powers are different though. Aislinn and her brother Liam are quite close and meet new friends along the way! Rune is one of my favorite characters! There is pain and heartbreak and struggle in their tale! Gina does a great job of weaving all of the elements needed in a novel seamlessly! I never felt like I was drowning in world building, or dialogue etc. I believe this is a prequel type novella and I want sooo much more of this world!
Gina thank you for choosing me to be one of your ARC readers and I wish you the best as you continue weaving Aislinns tale! <3
10/10 read! This is a must add for anyone who loves shifter novels.
As a long time lover of shifter novels Gina Elizabeth delivers on a new kind that has me excited for her next book! I do want to thank her so much for the opportunity to be an ARC reader for her and hope to be an ARC reader for her future books.
Hide introduces us to a world divided. Shifters are considered the enemy, and are hunted by shiftwardens. Aislinn and her brother Liam get caught in this crossfire and have to survive while hoping to be reunited with their parents. Along the way they meet another shifter, Rune, who helps them navigate the wilderness and make it safely to their destination. There are many adventures along the way, with Aislinn and Liam working hard to master their magical abilities and Rune dealing with his past.
I was privileged to be able to read this as an ARC. It was an honour to be able to do so. Thank you to Gina Elizabeth. This book (novella) is a fantastic read. We have a strong female character with powers. We have heard of shapeshifters, Aislinn the main character, is a soul shifter. There are many things Aislinn and her family must go through and deal with. The main one being having to hide who and what they are. The world and characters Gina has created is a masterpiece. This is just I small taste of what there is to come in this series. Myself and I am sure many others cannot wait for more. Gina is sure to become a favourite author to many people. I wait with anticipation for Hunted, the next book in this series to come out in 2025.
Ok I don't mind YA books, but I didn't know FMC is 12 years old (it doesnt say in description on Goodreads). Book was ok, bit childish. Fmc has some shapeshifter superpower, and her parents keep telling her she needs to hide it from humans and shapeshifters because she/they are not safe. But fmc keeps insisting to go to the king and tell him even about her power, though parents keep saying to her its not safe. Parents are even avoiding to go to the Sanctuary because they wouldnt be safe, and the moment her parents go missing she heads to the Sanctuary?? Oh and soldiers that are shaking in the woods in front of 12 year old girl before she even showed her power? I find some of these things in the book a bit unrealistic (even though is fantasy).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Hide is a prequel to “Hunted” and focuses on when the FMC, Aislinn, was younger with her brother Liam. Aislinn is a soul shifter while the rest of her family are shapeshifters and being a soul shifter brings dark magic… especially since it’s very rare. In this world shifters are hunted and are not accepted into society. I really enjoyed in this Novella the way each character was described and how detailed each scene was. After reading this novella I can confidently say I have all the information I need going into book one, Hunted. I can’t wait to continue learning about these characters and their journey.
If you’re looking for an indie fantasy book series to begin I recommend giving this one a try !!
This is such a good Novella. This is an introduction into the Bonded in Blood Series. We are introduced to some amazing characters and a strong FMC coming into her powers, and let me tell you she is going to be POWERFUL. A couple chapters in, and you won’t be able to put this down until you finish it. The characters are well fleshed out and there are some great backstories as well. The novella ends with a “to be continued” not really a cliffhanger but it still leaves you needing more! I CANNOT wait for the next installment to learn more about the characters, Ash’s powers, and what happens next.
Man, this had me in a whirlwind of emotions. Seeing as I got to read it as an ARC, the wait is even longer and much more excruciating! 😅
Following Aislinn & her brothers journey was quite the little adventure. Learning a bit about the current times of shapeshifters (animal shifters) and what they’re going through was pretty rough. I definitely want more story about the past and HOW it became what it is now, but maybe later in the series it’ll elaborate more. Once they met Rune, I was hooked on his character. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the next book of the series!