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Bonded Nightmare
She can run but she can't hide...
As the last unbonded nightmare in existence, Eryn Montalli has been hunted her entire life for the mere potential of her magick. She's only ever wanted a quiet life tending to the hurt and sick animals that seek her out. Those dreams go to absolute shit with four little words...
They found your bond.
Now she's hiding amongst the humans at Moorcroft University, trying to make a life for herself—if one overprotective witch wasn't so determined to set her carefully laid plans on fire. His arrogance is enough to make her want to punch him in the face...but his touch has her questioning why she's fighting so hard to stay away.
She was supposed to be stronger than this, but would it really be weakness to give in?
Ready or not, princess, here I come...
Kaiden Einar Winmore Alantes, Kai for short, has waited his entire life to find his bond and it didn't go according to plan. She doesn't recognize him and what's worse, someone seems hellbent on preventing their bond by any means necessary.
Eryn is passionate, intelligent, and sexy as fuck. She's the girl of his dreams except...she wants nothing to do with him—undeniable chemistry be damned. It will take all his charm and a touch of fate to make her realize they're meant to be, before it's too late.
What's a guy to do when trying to save his bond might very well be what makes him lose her? Forever.
This book is intended for mature readers. If you don't like spicy shadow daddy, enemies to lovers, fated mates, forced proximity, dual POV, paranormal romances, where HE falls first...look away.
As the last unbonded nightmare in existence, Eryn Montalli has been hunted her entire life for the mere potential of her magick. She's only ever wanted a quiet life tending to the hurt and sick animals that seek her out. Those dreams go to absolute shit with four little words...
They found your bond.
Now she's hiding amongst the humans at Moorcroft University, trying to make a life for herself—if one overprotective witch wasn't so determined to set her carefully laid plans on fire. His arrogance is enough to make her want to punch him in the face...but his touch has her questioning why she's fighting so hard to stay away.
She was supposed to be stronger than this, but would it really be weakness to give in?
Ready or not, princess, here I come...
Kaiden Einar Winmore Alantes, Kai for short, has waited his entire life to find his bond and it didn't go according to plan. She doesn't recognize him and what's worse, someone seems hellbent on preventing their bond by any means necessary.
Eryn is passionate, intelligent, and sexy as fuck. She's the girl of his dreams except...she wants nothing to do with him—undeniable chemistry be damned. It will take all his charm and a touch of fate to make her realize they're meant to be, before it's too late.
What's a guy to do when trying to save his bond might very well be what makes him lose her? Forever.
This book is intended for mature readers. If you don't like spicy shadow daddy, enemies to lovers, fated mates, forced proximity, dual POV, paranormal romances, where HE falls first...look away.
396 pages, Paperback
Published April 14, 2024
259 people are currently reading
6524 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 425 reviews
July 26, 2024
Couldn't get into it at all. This is one of those cases, I would like to think that it's not me, it's the book.
The premise seemed interesting, but the actual book is bland and boring. I get that the author wanted romance to be the plot but if you're writing a fantasy/paranormal romance, it needs to be something more than just surface level romance. This book was in desperate need of some level of world building and backstories. Half of the time, I had no idea why things were really happening to the fmc.
Eryn is such an annoying fmc. She has no life to her. Her reasons for trying to resist the bond made no sense to me. The back and forth, along with her pushover and horny attitude just frustrated me. She is extremely unlikable and has exactly two brain cells. Kaiden or Kai on the other hand carried this book. His character has been marketed as a combo of Rhysand and Malfoy. I personally, did not see him as a combo of the two at all. Kaiden is his own person and different from Rhys and Malfoy. So, don't buy into it.
Am honestly glad it's over. The story and its characters had no depth to it. The only reason am giving it two stars is cause of Kaiden and cause am in a generous mood. The romance drags and is basically just spice and the fmc makes it a bad experience.
~•~•~
Saw some people claim that the MMC gives Rhysand + Malfoy energy. I had to check it out 🤷♀️
The premise seemed interesting, but the actual book is bland and boring. I get that the author wanted romance to be the plot but if you're writing a fantasy/paranormal romance, it needs to be something more than just surface level romance. This book was in desperate need of some level of world building and backstories. Half of the time, I had no idea why things were really happening to the fmc.
Eryn is such an annoying fmc. She has no life to her. Her reasons for trying to resist the bond made no sense to me. The back and forth, along with her pushover and horny attitude just frustrated me. She is extremely unlikable and has exactly two brain cells. Kaiden or Kai on the other hand carried this book. His character has been marketed as a combo of Rhysand and Malfoy. I personally, did not see him as a combo of the two at all. Kaiden is his own person and different from Rhys and Malfoy. So, don't buy into it.
Am honestly glad it's over. The story and its characters had no depth to it. The only reason am giving it two stars is cause of Kaiden and cause am in a generous mood. The romance drags and is basically just spice and the fmc makes it a bad experience.
~•~•~
Saw some people claim that the MMC gives Rhysand + Malfoy energy. I had to check it out 🤷♀️
April 8, 2024
My song for Bonded Nightmare: Beautiful Things by Benson Boone
„I’m done pretending to be powerless because I’m scared of what might happen when I show the world I’m not.”
This review contains out-of-context quotes that could be considered as spoilers
———
It’s been weeks since I read this book and I loved it so much that I’ve since put off writing this review out of fear I won’t do it justice…
First of all, thank you so much E.M. Rinaldi for trusting me as a beta reader with this masterpiece. After reading Familiar Magic I had certain expectations for your newest book and you exceeded them all.
“Damn this bond and its endless campaign to click us together like a horny set of Legos.”
A good book, for me, is one that doesn’t need explanation for every step of the way nor the creation of conflicts to further the plot. It is one where the characters come together and create a dynamic that evolves and naturally carries the story. E.M. Rinaldi definitely aced that in Bonded Nightmare.
“You are spirited and fierce – my equal in every way. I don’t need the bond to see your loyalty and kind heart or to know that I would cease to exist if anything ever happened to you.”
Kai is a dream man and I still think of him a lot. It’s rare, even for a Draco girl like me, to fall for a blonde MMC. Making him a shadow daddy definitely helped in his favor but it was ultimately his devotion and passion, his edge and determination that made me fall hard. He’ll now forever be part of the shadow daddy roster, thank you very much.
“I will choose you to see all of me and all that I am with the knowledge that only you can make me better.”
As a counterpart, Eryn is the perfect FMC. She’s relatable, to me at least, and while I’ve been known to struggle with it in other books, I love how she walks the line between autonomy and recklessness more than once. Because it makes sense and everything she does aligns with her character, her story and the path she is on.
‘He was offering me power to decide my future. All I had to do was give myself to him, to the bond, and everything would change.’
I love the way they both grow though I won’t go into detail as to avoid spoilers.
The dynamics between characters were equally amazing with the side characters. (You know I fucking love cheeky, wild Ezra and please give us more of him thank you)
“I don’t care if your skin turns pink and you have to dance naked under the full moon every month. I just want to know what’s going on with you.”
The writing is flawless and I love seeing a developing writing style in across an author’s work! Every spice scene is on point, the pace is perfect and I can’t get over the way you so subtly created a world of magic within our own realm. Conflicts were built up and worked through and every arch and twist had it’s reasoning and space.
“I almost lost control, princess, and you’re not ready for the things I want from you.”
I’m beyond excited to see this book released and can’t wait to read what E.M Rinaldi has in store for the second book.
„I’m done pretending to be powerless because I’m scared of what might happen when I show the world I’m not.”
This review contains out-of-context quotes that could be considered as spoilers
———
It’s been weeks since I read this book and I loved it so much that I’ve since put off writing this review out of fear I won’t do it justice…
First of all, thank you so much E.M. Rinaldi for trusting me as a beta reader with this masterpiece. After reading Familiar Magic I had certain expectations for your newest book and you exceeded them all.
“Damn this bond and its endless campaign to click us together like a horny set of Legos.”
A good book, for me, is one that doesn’t need explanation for every step of the way nor the creation of conflicts to further the plot. It is one where the characters come together and create a dynamic that evolves and naturally carries the story. E.M. Rinaldi definitely aced that in Bonded Nightmare.
“You are spirited and fierce – my equal in every way. I don’t need the bond to see your loyalty and kind heart or to know that I would cease to exist if anything ever happened to you.”
Kai is a dream man and I still think of him a lot. It’s rare, even for a Draco girl like me, to fall for a blonde MMC. Making him a shadow daddy definitely helped in his favor but it was ultimately his devotion and passion, his edge and determination that made me fall hard. He’ll now forever be part of the shadow daddy roster, thank you very much.
“I will choose you to see all of me and all that I am with the knowledge that only you can make me better.”
As a counterpart, Eryn is the perfect FMC. She’s relatable, to me at least, and while I’ve been known to struggle with it in other books, I love how she walks the line between autonomy and recklessness more than once. Because it makes sense and everything she does aligns with her character, her story and the path she is on.
‘He was offering me power to decide my future. All I had to do was give myself to him, to the bond, and everything would change.’
I love the way they both grow though I won’t go into detail as to avoid spoilers.
The dynamics between characters were equally amazing with the side characters. (You know I fucking love cheeky, wild Ezra and please give us more of him thank you)
“I don’t care if your skin turns pink and you have to dance naked under the full moon every month. I just want to know what’s going on with you.”
The writing is flawless and I love seeing a developing writing style in across an author’s work! Every spice scene is on point, the pace is perfect and I can’t get over the way you so subtly created a world of magic within our own realm. Conflicts were built up and worked through and every arch and twist had it’s reasoning and space.
“I almost lost control, princess, and you’re not ready for the things I want from you.”
I’m beyond excited to see this book released and can’t wait to read what E.M Rinaldi has in store for the second book.
April 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
I received this as an ARC, and I couldn't wait to get started with it!
From the beginning, it was an easy win for me. Starting with the college environment, which is one of my favorites, to continuing with the fact that he is the TA, which drives me crazy.
Overall, I feel the story was very well balanced with the right dose of romance and spice. I don't like when a dark romance focuses too much on spice without giving the plot and character interactions the right space. 'Bonded Nightmare' does this very well and therefore deserves the high rating.
I liked how the main characters get to know each other and the way Kaiden gives her the space she needs despite being bonded to her. I enjoyed the romantic journey they had.
Lastly, a few words for my beloved Ezra, because he captured my heart, and I can't wait to read book 2, where he will be among the main characters. 😍
I received this as an ARC, and I couldn't wait to get started with it!
From the beginning, it was an easy win for me. Starting with the college environment, which is one of my favorites, to continuing with the fact that he is the TA, which drives me crazy.
Overall, I feel the story was very well balanced with the right dose of romance and spice. I don't like when a dark romance focuses too much on spice without giving the plot and character interactions the right space. 'Bonded Nightmare' does this very well and therefore deserves the high rating.
I liked how the main characters get to know each other and the way Kaiden gives her the space she needs despite being bonded to her. I enjoyed the romantic journey they had.
Lastly, a few words for my beloved Ezra, because he captured my heart, and I can't wait to read book 2, where he will be among the main characters. 😍
July 1, 2024
DNF pretty early...
I could not bring myself to like Kai.... and the writing.
I could not bring myself to like Kai.... and the writing.
September 2, 2024
Dark academia paranormal slow burn spicy romance. The FMC is a college student and makes choices like someone in that typical age range. The MMC is a little older, more experienced, and a TA. The vibes are vibing. If you want literary perfection don’t look here. If you want a good time quick read with banter, action, and turmoil this will be a win.
# Bonded Nightmare
# 8/21/2024 ~ 9/2/2024
# 4.5 / 5.0
# Bonded Nightmare
# 8/21/2024 ~ 9/2/2024
# 4.5 / 5.0
October 17, 2024
a shadow daddy named Kai
witches, nightmares, vampires, sirens
THIS BOOK FUCKING DELIVERED, i can’t wait to read rani and ezra’s story ❤️🔥
witches, nightmares, vampires, sirens
THIS BOOK FUCKING DELIVERED, i can’t wait to read rani and ezra’s story ❤️🔥
December 11, 2024
Okay the first thing I have to say is how dare you?? You’re going to write a book like THAT and then make me wait for the next one? It’s cruel 😭
I was honestly a little hesitant to read this at first because it just sounded so good and I was worried it wouldn’t live up to my hopes. Well it definitely did and then some.
I’ve been chasing the feeling of Bonds That Tie ever since I read it for the first time and this has all of those same feels and vibes. If you liked that you’re gonna love this.
Kai and Eryn
Eryn is a freaking badass. The whole world is basically against her and has knocked her down more times than she can count but she didn’t let it make her weak. It made her a fighter and we LOVE a strong fmc who don’t need no man, especially not her bond. Enter Kai. Her hot as heck bond who has decided that it doesn’t matter she hates him, he’s going to make her fall in love with him anyway 😏. The banter is freaking top notch. You’re gonna laugh, you’re gonna kick your feet and giggle, and you’re definitely gonna blush. They have to work together to save both of their lives and it gets steamy. Literal touch her and die.
The Plot
I was drawn to this book right away because fated mates and he falls first?? It’s a winning freaking combo. The book starts off fast paced and it never lets you down. It maintains the feels and drama all the way through. There’s not a lot of spice but oh my gosh when the spice does come it’s freaking hot. There’s no lulls and it definitely doesn’t drag anywhere.
The back and forth dialogue never feels forced. There’s been so many times where it just doesn’t feel natural to the story and ends up distancing you from the characters and that’s certainly not a problem here. Everything between all of the characters feels real. The side characters are dynamic and integral to the story instead of being an afterthought. You’re gonna fall in love with them too.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely have nothing bad to say about this book, and I’m typically a nitpicky reader. This is definitely in my top five of all time and E.M Rinaldi is now one of my instabuy authors. The slump this book will put me in is going to be massive.
I was honestly a little hesitant to read this at first because it just sounded so good and I was worried it wouldn’t live up to my hopes. Well it definitely did and then some.
I’ve been chasing the feeling of Bonds That Tie ever since I read it for the first time and this has all of those same feels and vibes. If you liked that you’re gonna love this.
Kai and Eryn
Eryn is a freaking badass. The whole world is basically against her and has knocked her down more times than she can count but she didn’t let it make her weak. It made her a fighter and we LOVE a strong fmc who don’t need no man, especially not her bond. Enter Kai. Her hot as heck bond who has decided that it doesn’t matter she hates him, he’s going to make her fall in love with him anyway 😏. The banter is freaking top notch. You’re gonna laugh, you’re gonna kick your feet and giggle, and you’re definitely gonna blush. They have to work together to save both of their lives and it gets steamy. Literal touch her and die.
The Plot
I was drawn to this book right away because fated mates and he falls first?? It’s a winning freaking combo. The book starts off fast paced and it never lets you down. It maintains the feels and drama all the way through. There’s not a lot of spice but oh my gosh when the spice does come it’s freaking hot. There’s no lulls and it definitely doesn’t drag anywhere.
The back and forth dialogue never feels forced. There’s been so many times where it just doesn’t feel natural to the story and ends up distancing you from the characters and that’s certainly not a problem here. Everything between all of the characters feels real. The side characters are dynamic and integral to the story instead of being an afterthought. You’re gonna fall in love with them too.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely have nothing bad to say about this book, and I’m typically a nitpicky reader. This is definitely in my top five of all time and E.M Rinaldi is now one of my instabuy authors. The slump this book will put me in is going to be massive.
June 17, 2024
This is the ultimate light, spicy romantasy read you didn’t know you needed.
I was in a terrible reading slump and this reinvigorated me SO WELL!
The world is simple and easy to understand, the plot is there but it’s not complicated or overly deep and dark and the spice is SPICING. “Good girl” girlies… this is for you.
This follows our FMC, a Nightmare who gets her power by feeding on dreams on her way to college to pursue veterinary medicine. She just wants to be a normal human. BUT she’s been given a perfect warlock mate to potentially choose to bond with and if she does, it will ruin her plans of silently existing in the mortal world. So she’s hiding from him and heading off to college with the humans. And BUMMER he happens to go to this SAME college because he’s a hopeless romantic and thinks he can get her to change her mind about the bond.
So will she choose him??
I absolutely recommend this! It is part of a series but the next book will focus on a second couple. This is almost a hybrid standalone PERFECT for reading in between dense fantasy series
I was in a terrible reading slump and this reinvigorated me SO WELL!
The world is simple and easy to understand, the plot is there but it’s not complicated or overly deep and dark and the spice is SPICING. “Good girl” girlies… this is for you.
This follows our FMC, a Nightmare who gets her power by feeding on dreams on her way to college to pursue veterinary medicine. She just wants to be a normal human. BUT she’s been given a perfect warlock mate to potentially choose to bond with and if she does, it will ruin her plans of silently existing in the mortal world. So she’s hiding from him and heading off to college with the humans. And BUMMER he happens to go to this SAME college because he’s a hopeless romantic and thinks he can get her to change her mind about the bond.
So will she choose him??
I absolutely recommend this! It is part of a series but the next book will focus on a second couple. This is almost a hybrid standalone PERFECT for reading in between dense fantasy series
March 24, 2024
Rating: 4.5/5
Spice: 3.5/5
This was a very fun read for me! It was an easy read and instantly caught my interest. Right from the prologue. I enjoyed our characters, especially the banter! Top tier in my opinion. We had adventure, we had action, we had ANGST! The romance was adorable and the fact that he fell first?! Icing on the cake! I was super intrigued by the plot and magic system; especially diving into the nightmare abilities. I think any fab of romantasy, fated mates, and elemental magic would love this read!
Spice: 3.5/5
This was a very fun read for me! It was an easy read and instantly caught my interest. Right from the prologue. I enjoyed our characters, especially the banter! Top tier in my opinion. We had adventure, we had action, we had ANGST! The romance was adorable and the fact that he fell first?! Icing on the cake! I was super intrigued by the plot and magic system; especially diving into the nightmare abilities. I think any fab of romantasy, fated mates, and elemental magic would love this read!
April 26, 2024
New to me author and it always makes my heart sing when I find an author I’ve never heard of and fall in love with their writing. I LOVED this book.
It’s my favorite tropes!!
Fated Mates
He Falls First
Push and Pull
Slow Burn
Magic and Powers
Spicy
Amazing Side Characters
Touch Her and Die
Shadow Daddy 🔥
Eryn is a rare breed. She feeds off peoples dreams. Shes a “Nightmare.”
She can manipulate minds. Of course, with that kind of power, others have nearly eradicated her kind.
Her bond ends up being the heir to a powerful witch faction.
He’s a warlock. A hot one. A powerful one. A shadow daddy.
She denied their bond for years. He’s known everything about her.
And loves her fiercely already.
“I never wanted you to be unhappy, Eryn,” he swore.
I only ever wanted a life with you.”
“I didn’t care if she denied the bond for the rest of our lives, I’d still protect her. The very thought of anything happening to her made me sick. I couldn’t imagine a world without her in it, even if it was nowhere near me, not after meeting her. “
This is enemies to lovers in a college setting. It’s filled with action and tension. Full of magic and mystery.
It kept me hooked from beginning to end.
The next story seems like it’s gonna be about a new set of bonds, which were the side characters in this story, which I am very excited about. I hope to see more about the political and magical world of this setting!
4.5⭐️
It’s my favorite tropes!!
Fated Mates
He Falls First
Push and Pull
Slow Burn
Magic and Powers
Spicy
Amazing Side Characters
Touch Her and Die
Shadow Daddy 🔥
Eryn is a rare breed. She feeds off peoples dreams. Shes a “Nightmare.”
She can manipulate minds. Of course, with that kind of power, others have nearly eradicated her kind.
Her bond ends up being the heir to a powerful witch faction.
He’s a warlock. A hot one. A powerful one. A shadow daddy.
She denied their bond for years. He’s known everything about her.
And loves her fiercely already.
“I never wanted you to be unhappy, Eryn,” he swore.
I only ever wanted a life with you.”
“I didn’t care if she denied the bond for the rest of our lives, I’d still protect her. The very thought of anything happening to her made me sick. I couldn’t imagine a world without her in it, even if it was nowhere near me, not after meeting her. “
This is enemies to lovers in a college setting. It’s filled with action and tension. Full of magic and mystery.
It kept me hooked from beginning to end.
The next story seems like it’s gonna be about a new set of bonds, which were the side characters in this story, which I am very excited about. I hope to see more about the political and magical world of this setting!
4.5⭐️
October 26, 2024
This was a fun spicy paranormal romance with everyone’s fav trope - ✨fated mates✨ I initially read this back in July and decided to do a reread and I honestly enjoyed it more the second time.
“Sometimes romance *is* the plot” - a note from the author 😂 The world building isn’t too heavy/overwhelming, but it’s still there. We get some adventure and action. There’s also witches, nightmares, djinn, and sirens.
I’m usually not into blonde MMCs, but I’ll make an exception for Kai 🙂↕️ Mr. “𝙀𝙮𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙢𝙚, 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨" 🫠
I loved the banter and chemistry between him and Eryn.
Overall an enjoyable, fun, light read.
I can’t wait to read Rani and Ezra’s story!!
“𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙮, 𝙀𝙧𝙮𝙣,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙚. “𝙄 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙘𝙚—𝙢𝙮 𝙚𝙦𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙤𝙮𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩, 𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙘𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗲𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆:
💜 Shadow Daddy MMC
💜 Forced Proximity
💜 He Falls First
💜 College Setting
💜 Dual POV
“Sometimes romance *is* the plot” - a note from the author 😂 The world building isn’t too heavy/overwhelming, but it’s still there. We get some adventure and action. There’s also witches, nightmares, djinn, and sirens.
I’m usually not into blonde MMCs, but I’ll make an exception for Kai 🙂↕️ Mr. “𝙀𝙮𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙢𝙚, 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨" 🫠
I loved the banter and chemistry between him and Eryn.
Overall an enjoyable, fun, light read.
I can’t wait to read Rani and Ezra’s story!!
“𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙮, 𝙀𝙧𝙮𝙣,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙚. “𝙄 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙘𝙚—𝙢𝙮 𝙚𝙦𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙤𝙮𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩, 𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙘𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗲𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆:
💜 Shadow Daddy MMC
💜 Forced Proximity
💜 He Falls First
💜 College Setting
💜 Dual POV
August 5, 2025
I fucking loved this book and had such a great timing reading it. Grasped my attention so fast I did not think I would enjoy it this much. The author said romance was the plot and I took that to heart and man was the romance so tender, sweet, emotional, angry, comforting, vulnerable, and just plain beautiful. The way I am in love with Kai and wish he was my man 🤣 not to mention even though Kai knew they were fated and wanted her already in the beginning yet it was still such a slow burn?! Ughhhj this author wrote such a perfect romance it feels like it was made for me lol
I was hoping these would be strict standalone’s but the ending does lead into book 2 and honestly, I don’t mind just because reading this book did make me like and want to read about Ezra and Rani in the next book.
I was hoping these would be strict standalone’s but the ending does lead into book 2 and honestly, I don’t mind just because reading this book did make me like and want to read about Ezra and Rani in the next book.
May 1, 2024
Bonded Nightmare is my first book by E.M Rinaldi. That said, I thoroughly devoured this book. It was an awesome and thrilling read; I could not put it down. The intricacies of the characters and the world-building were well done. I was hooked from the heart-pounding prologue. I love a good 'fated mates' trope, the push and pull between the characters were deliciously drawn out. And the spice was definitely spicing.
I mean hello shadow daddy. But more than the lust and passion, there's a profound feeling of something deeper. You feel it through the pages and it is just so swoon-worthy.
I don't want to give away too much, all I can say is, trust me it was a great ride. I highly recommend this book. And I look forward to more of E.M. Rinaldi's works.
I received the ARC on NetGalley. Thank you so much to E.M. Rinaldi for the advanced copy of your beautiful work.
"If you don't run up those stairs right now and lock your door, I'm going to f*ck you all over this room."
- Kai
"I could slide my c*ck so deep inside you, you wouldn't be able to climb off. I could lean you back and slow-f*ck you until your eyes roll back, and your voice goes hoarse from screaming, until your juices drip between us to soak the ground, until our bond snaps into place so hard you'd never even think of leaving me again."
- (Also) Kai
I mean hello shadow daddy. But more than the lust and passion, there's a profound feeling of something deeper. You feel it through the pages and it is just so swoon-worthy.
"You belong to be as much as I do you."
- (you guessed it) Kai
I don't want to give away too much, all I can say is, trust me it was a great ride. I highly recommend this book. And I look forward to more of E.M. Rinaldi's works.
I received the ARC on NetGalley. Thank you so much to E.M. Rinaldi for the advanced copy of your beautiful work.
April 3, 2024
“I never wanted you to be unhappy, Eryn, I only ever wanted a life with you.” 🥹💜
ARC review - all opinions are my own
Tropes:
✨Enemies to lovers
✨Forced proximity
✨Dual POV
✨He falls first
✨Fated mates
✨Shadow daddy
✨Touch her and 💀
✨Paranormal Romance
Eryn and Kaiden are revealed as a fated bond and even as a young adult, Eryn refuses to accept the bond. She wants to live her life the way she wants, following after her own dreams and desires.
This book had me invested from the start. Bonded nightmare includes fated mates between a shadow daddy, Kaiden, and Eryn, a nightmare, someone who can read minds, including animals. After spending her entire life running from the evil of supers, she just wants to live a normal life and become a veterinarian.
A few years later, when she finally goes to in person college, after finishing her first two years online, she bumps into a gorgeous blonde stranger on her first day. Little did she know, this would be the start of her new life.
The banter, angst and buildup in this story is sizzling, thanks to the mouth on Kaiden 🫣
Kaiden, although protective, is absolutely smitten over his bond. He literally will do any & everything for Eryn. He has a heart of gold and is so so patient when it comes to her. Also, he says the most swoonworthy things.
I can’t wait for the next book, Siren Bound, to get Rani and Ezra’s story! With the banter between those two characters and tension, I just know it’s going to be a hoot!
This is my first book from E.M Rinaldi and I reallly enjoyed reading it!
Thank you so much for this eARC! 💜
ARC review - all opinions are my own
Tropes:
✨Enemies to lovers
✨Forced proximity
✨Dual POV
✨He falls first
✨Fated mates
✨Shadow daddy
✨Touch her and 💀
✨Paranormal Romance
Eryn and Kaiden are revealed as a fated bond and even as a young adult, Eryn refuses to accept the bond. She wants to live her life the way she wants, following after her own dreams and desires.
This book had me invested from the start. Bonded nightmare includes fated mates between a shadow daddy, Kaiden, and Eryn, a nightmare, someone who can read minds, including animals. After spending her entire life running from the evil of supers, she just wants to live a normal life and become a veterinarian.
A few years later, when she finally goes to in person college, after finishing her first two years online, she bumps into a gorgeous blonde stranger on her first day. Little did she know, this would be the start of her new life.
The banter, angst and buildup in this story is sizzling, thanks to the mouth on Kaiden 🫣
Kaiden, although protective, is absolutely smitten over his bond. He literally will do any & everything for Eryn. He has a heart of gold and is so so patient when it comes to her. Also, he says the most swoonworthy things.
I can’t wait for the next book, Siren Bound, to get Rani and Ezra’s story! With the banter between those two characters and tension, I just know it’s going to be a hoot!
This is my first book from E.M Rinaldi and I reallly enjoyed reading it!
Thank you so much for this eARC! 💜
May 4, 2025
Synopsis: As the last unbounded Nightmare in existence, Eryn Montalli has been hunted her entire life for the mere potential of her magick. She’s only ever wanted a quiet life tending to injured animals that call to her. The dream falls apart in four words: They found your bond.
She starts to make a life for herself hiding amongst the humans at Moorcroft University when she meets Kaiden Einar Winmore Alantes, an overprotective and arrogant witch who works to build her trust in him. Kai waited his whole life to find his bond, but the passionate, intelligent, stubborn, and sexy Eryn wants nothing to do with him.
It will take all his charm and a touch of fate to make her realize they’re meant to be…before it’s too late. What’s a guy to do when trying to save his Bond might very well be the thing that makes him lose her forever?
•
•
•
Review: Yes. Absolute yes. Kai is a perfect, chivalrous gentleman of a shadow daddy with golden retriever tendencies. Ezra and Rani were perfectly complimentary side characters, and you all know I’m a sucker for a super sassy BFF.
Bonded Nightmare was my favorite overall read for this month. Kai is patient, confident, strong, caring, and so thoughtful. Eryn has a LOT going on and a lot to process throughout this book. Kai is her perfect compliment, not trying to control her or force any decisions on her. At a few points I was like GIRL come on he’s obviously amazing, but she had to get there on her own time.
Bonded Nightmare is a good combination of paranormal, romance, smut (open door), and action/adventure.
This was such a FUN read, and I can’t wait for the next book to read Ezra and Rani’s story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
💜Shadow Daddy
💜Paranormal romance
💜He falls first
💜Forced proximity
💜Fated mates
💜Dual POV
💜Inexperienced FMC
A million thank yous to the author E. M. Rinaldi for letting me read this ARC! And sorry-not-sorry for the low key unhinged DMs I sent you. 🤪✌️
She starts to make a life for herself hiding amongst the humans at Moorcroft University when she meets Kaiden Einar Winmore Alantes, an overprotective and arrogant witch who works to build her trust in him. Kai waited his whole life to find his bond, but the passionate, intelligent, stubborn, and sexy Eryn wants nothing to do with him.
It will take all his charm and a touch of fate to make her realize they’re meant to be…before it’s too late. What’s a guy to do when trying to save his Bond might very well be the thing that makes him lose her forever?
•
•
•
Review: Yes. Absolute yes. Kai is a perfect, chivalrous gentleman of a shadow daddy with golden retriever tendencies. Ezra and Rani were perfectly complimentary side characters, and you all know I’m a sucker for a super sassy BFF.
Bonded Nightmare was my favorite overall read for this month. Kai is patient, confident, strong, caring, and so thoughtful. Eryn has a LOT going on and a lot to process throughout this book. Kai is her perfect compliment, not trying to control her or force any decisions on her. At a few points I was like GIRL come on he’s obviously amazing, but she had to get there on her own time.
Bonded Nightmare is a good combination of paranormal, romance, smut (open door), and action/adventure.
This was such a FUN read, and I can’t wait for the next book to read Ezra and Rani’s story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
💜Shadow Daddy
💜Paranormal romance
💜He falls first
💜Forced proximity
💜Fated mates
💜Dual POV
💜Inexperienced FMC
A million thank yous to the author E. M. Rinaldi for letting me read this ARC! And sorry-not-sorry for the low key unhinged DMs I sent you. 🤪✌️
April 26, 2024
I received this book as an ARC through NetGalley.
5/5 ⭐️ THE SPICE WAS GIVING!!!!
When I tell you I could not put this down, I absolutely mean it. I started it yesterday around 4:30pm and finished it at 7:00am the following morning. THIS. BOOK. WILL. HAVE. YOU. HOOKED. 🪝
I absolutely loved how much of a spitfire/firecracker Eryn was and how utterly irresistible Kai was.
How badly Eryn wanted to fight her natural bond was quite funny! How she could resist Kai for that long? Girl… I’ll never understand.
I adored their witty banter, how spicy and steamy they got, and how much love within them that I could feel between the pages.
I cannot wait for the second book! I will definitely be applying for an arc of that as well as buying each book physically when it comes out!
Obsessed is an understatement. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5 ⭐️ THE SPICE WAS GIVING!!!!
When I tell you I could not put this down, I absolutely mean it. I started it yesterday around 4:30pm and finished it at 7:00am the following morning. THIS. BOOK. WILL. HAVE. YOU. HOOKED. 🪝
I absolutely loved how much of a spitfire/firecracker Eryn was and how utterly irresistible Kai was.
How badly Eryn wanted to fight her natural bond was quite funny! How she could resist Kai for that long? Girl… I’ll never understand.
I adored their witty banter, how spicy and steamy they got, and how much love within them that I could feel between the pages.
I cannot wait for the second book! I will definitely be applying for an arc of that as well as buying each book physically when it comes out!
Obsessed is an understatement. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! 😊
It took me a little while to warm up to the MMC at first, I found him a little creepy in the beginning 😅! But I warmed up to him during the book and really liked him during the second half 😊!
I really liked the FMC too, her reactions during the book are exactly how I would probably react in those situations too 😅, I also loved her love of animals 🥹!!
I rated 4* instead of 5* as I wish there was a little more world building in the book, to give us a little more explanation about the magic systems etc, and the world of the supernatural ! But hopefully we will get a bit more of that in the second book 😊
I really enjoyed this book overall though and I loved the ending! i cannot wait for the next book ♥️ thank you again for picking me as an ARC reader !!
It took me a little while to warm up to the MMC at first, I found him a little creepy in the beginning 😅! But I warmed up to him during the book and really liked him during the second half 😊!
I really liked the FMC too, her reactions during the book are exactly how I would probably react in those situations too 😅, I also loved her love of animals 🥹!!
I rated 4* instead of 5* as I wish there was a little more world building in the book, to give us a little more explanation about the magic systems etc, and the world of the supernatural ! But hopefully we will get a bit more of that in the second book 😊
I really enjoyed this book overall though and I loved the ending! i cannot wait for the next book ♥️ thank you again for picking me as an ARC reader !!
June 13, 2024
This story has so much potential! I loved the paranormal college romance vibes and the spice… but that was it for me.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t go past some major plot holes (like very important characters disappearing out of the blue) and I would have loved to learn more about the world building and politics!
Unfortunately, I couldn’t go past some major plot holes (like very important characters disappearing out of the blue) and I would have loved to learn more about the world building and politics!
June 11, 2024
Dnf around 47%
The fmc is way too annoying and constantly changing her mind about the mmc. She is getting on my nerves and i even tried to skip her povs😪
The fmc is way too annoying and constantly changing her mind about the mmc. She is getting on my nerves and i even tried to skip her povs😪
April 15, 2024
✨BONDED NIGHTMARE ✨
Release date: May 27th 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ 🌶️🌶️.5
🪻Shadow Daddy
✨ Enemies to Lovers
😈 Fated Mates
🪻Forced Proximity
✨He Falls First
😈 Touch her and 💀🪦
“I never wanted you unhappy, Eryn. I only ever wanted a life with you “
Have you ever read something and thought to yourself, DAMN I’m proud of them !? 🥹👏🏼 that’s how I felt after reading this sexy book !!
Thank you so much for trusting me with your MASTERPIECE. It’s an honor to be on your ARC team.
I ate this up in a day and a half. & loveeeeed, LOVEEEED every minute of it. Kai will live rent free in my head along with other book lovers of mine. I love a book that makes me struggle to put it down & when we’re apart I can’t stop thinking about it. Any moment I was away my mind raced back to Eryn and Kai 🫠
Their banter and chemistry was absolutely phenomenal. Eryn showcases independence and wasn’t giving into the bond right away. She rejected it and I admired her for that. She stood on business 🫡🤪 I also admired how Kai didn’t force himself on her, but was patient and waited for her to be ready. Like a true SHADOW DADDDYYY 😛. Gahhh I melt. I love a protective and sweet man. Kaiden did it for me !
“ because you’re absolutely everything I ever wanted and didn’t know I needed “ 🥹🫠
I’m anxiously waiting for book two. & I am floored it’s Ezra’s story!!! GET REALLLLLL. I can’t wait 👏🏼✨😍
Please check this book out!
Release date: May 27th 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ 🌶️🌶️.5
🪻Shadow Daddy
✨ Enemies to Lovers
😈 Fated Mates
🪻Forced Proximity
✨He Falls First
😈 Touch her and 💀🪦
“I never wanted you unhappy, Eryn. I only ever wanted a life with you “
Have you ever read something and thought to yourself, DAMN I’m proud of them !? 🥹👏🏼 that’s how I felt after reading this sexy book !!
Thank you so much for trusting me with your MASTERPIECE. It’s an honor to be on your ARC team.
I ate this up in a day and a half. & loveeeeed, LOVEEEED every minute of it. Kai will live rent free in my head along with other book lovers of mine. I love a book that makes me struggle to put it down & when we’re apart I can’t stop thinking about it. Any moment I was away my mind raced back to Eryn and Kai 🫠
Their banter and chemistry was absolutely phenomenal. Eryn showcases independence and wasn’t giving into the bond right away. She rejected it and I admired her for that. She stood on business 🫡🤪 I also admired how Kai didn’t force himself on her, but was patient and waited for her to be ready. Like a true SHADOW DADDDYYY 😛. Gahhh I melt. I love a protective and sweet man. Kaiden did it for me !
“ because you’re absolutely everything I ever wanted and didn’t know I needed “ 🥹🫠
I’m anxiously waiting for book two. & I am floored it’s Ezra’s story!!! GET REALLLLLL. I can’t wait 👏🏼✨😍
Please check this book out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2024
4.5 stars
Wow! I loved this story! It felt so original!
I loved how reluctant Eryn was regarding the bond and now Kai had to really work to to earn her trust. It definitely added to the chemistry between the two characters!
There were definitely a few questions left over at the end of the book making me really excited for the next one! I can already tell this will be such a fun world to get more stories from!
Wow! I loved this story! It felt so original!
I loved how reluctant Eryn was regarding the bond and now Kai had to really work to to earn her trust. It definitely added to the chemistry between the two characters!
There were definitely a few questions left over at the end of the book making me really excited for the next one! I can already tell this will be such a fun world to get more stories from!
April 13, 2025
SHADOW DADDY??! that’s all i need for me to dive into a book🙂↕️🙂↕️
kai and eryn were both so hot and i quickly became OBSESSED with their dynamic. the enemies to lovers vibes and the obsessiveness this man has for his mate???
delicious🤭🫦
kai is the dream mmc and he will leave you feeling things (both emotionally and physically)
kai and eryn were both so hot and i quickly became OBSESSED with their dynamic. the enemies to lovers vibes and the obsessiveness this man has for his mate???
delicious🤭🫦
kai is the dream mmc and he will leave you feeling things (both emotionally and physically)
April 25, 2024
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thank you to EM Rinaldi and NetGalley for the ARC of this book!
This book was unlike the books that I usually read, which might mean I’m not the target audience for it. That being said, I did enjoy it and found it to be an easy and quick read! I thought the plot was unique compared to the few other paranormal romances that I have read. I really enjoy the Fated Mates trope and thought this was well done in the book! The cover of this book is also absolutely gorgeous 😍
I didn’t find the world that the book was set in to be overly compelling, which is something that I usually look for in a book.
Overall, I think fans of paranormal romance would enjoy this book!
Thank you to EM Rinaldi and NetGalley for the ARC of this book!
This book was unlike the books that I usually read, which might mean I’m not the target audience for it. That being said, I did enjoy it and found it to be an easy and quick read! I thought the plot was unique compared to the few other paranormal romances that I have read. I really enjoy the Fated Mates trope and thought this was well done in the book! The cover of this book is also absolutely gorgeous 😍
I didn’t find the world that the book was set in to be overly compelling, which is something that I usually look for in a book.
Overall, I think fans of paranormal romance would enjoy this book!
April 22, 2024
"I never wanted you to be unhappy, Eryn, I only ever wanted a life with you."
I am so so so thrilled to have received an ARC e-copy of this book! It was my first pre-release book to read and I am so happy it was. It met all expectations & hopes for an early release of a romantacy.
Tropes:
MY FAV, FATED MATES
Shadow DADDY
HE FALLS FIRST!!!
College Girl + TA
Dual POV
Golden retriever bf but only for her
Touch her and (be unalived)
I loved so many things about this book! The banter and sly comical comparisons had me giggling nonstop. When I say this man, excuse me SHADOW DADDY, had me kicking my feet and screeching I mean it. He is so patient and gentle and kind with her and I couldn’t handle it, I wanted to give him a big hug.
This book healed me in a way I didn’t know that I needed. It was the perfect mix of dark romance and contemporary romance mixed with fantasy.
I loved every single character, which is not normal for me. My only complaint is that I feel like the next book could have gone deeper into Eryn and Kai’s relationship and them going back to take over the royal duties rather than continuing into Ezra’s story (I do ADORE him though). So I HOPE the series continues and we get that POV eventually.
Overall a 5 star read!!
I am so so so thrilled to have received an ARC e-copy of this book! It was my first pre-release book to read and I am so happy it was. It met all expectations & hopes for an early release of a romantacy.
Tropes:
MY FAV, FATED MATES
Shadow DADDY
HE FALLS FIRST!!!
College Girl + TA
Dual POV
Golden retriever bf but only for her
Touch her and (be unalived)
I loved so many things about this book! The banter and sly comical comparisons had me giggling nonstop. When I say this man, excuse me SHADOW DADDY, had me kicking my feet and screeching I mean it. He is so patient and gentle and kind with her and I couldn’t handle it, I wanted to give him a big hug.
This book healed me in a way I didn’t know that I needed. It was the perfect mix of dark romance and contemporary romance mixed with fantasy.
I loved every single character, which is not normal for me. My only complaint is that I feel like the next book could have gone deeper into Eryn and Kai’s relationship and them going back to take over the royal duties rather than continuing into Ezra’s story (I do ADORE him though). So I HOPE the series continues and we get that POV eventually.
Overall a 5 star read!!
May 25, 2024
Bonded Nightmare
I Received this as a ARC, this being my first ARC i was super excited to start reading it. This also being my first book by EM Rinaldi.
While im a very slow reader on my own. Im dyslexic and just over all have a harder time reading on my own without the help of a audiobook. This book was a easy read, i think for me the writing was easy to follow and understand when out having help, and that a big win for me. from the first few paged this book had me hooked. and i hate that it took me so long to read it because all i wanted to do was see what happen next. i love the dual pov, and i have to say i love Kaiden pov way more. it was just fun to watch his inner thoughts and struggle. I loved Eryn strong will againt her bond, and how she wanted to do what she wanted. i think this book was well balance. It hit everything i need to be over all a great book. it had all my favorite tropes.
-enemies to lovers
-he falls first
-fated mate
-touch her and die
-shadow daddy
-dual pov
this is a 10/10 recommend for me!!! i loved this book. The story pulls you in right at the start. From the strong feisty FMC to loveable cinnamon roll MMC, the banter and spice, you will be falling for this book in no time.
I Received this as a ARC, this being my first ARC i was super excited to start reading it. This also being my first book by EM Rinaldi.
While im a very slow reader on my own. Im dyslexic and just over all have a harder time reading on my own without the help of a audiobook. This book was a easy read, i think for me the writing was easy to follow and understand when out having help, and that a big win for me. from the first few paged this book had me hooked. and i hate that it took me so long to read it because all i wanted to do was see what happen next. i love the dual pov, and i have to say i love Kaiden pov way more. it was just fun to watch his inner thoughts and struggle. I loved Eryn strong will againt her bond, and how she wanted to do what she wanted. i think this book was well balance. It hit everything i need to be over all a great book. it had all my favorite tropes.
-enemies to lovers
-he falls first
-fated mate
-touch her and die
-shadow daddy
-dual pov
this is a 10/10 recommend for me!!! i loved this book. The story pulls you in right at the start. From the strong feisty FMC to loveable cinnamon roll MMC, the banter and spice, you will be falling for this book in no time.
August 3, 2024
4/5 ⭐️
April 23, 2024
Roses: Kaiden was a pretty great book boyfriend. He had a perfect amount of protective/possessiveness and golden retriever qualities. He was extremely devoted to Eryn and making sure she understood he wasn’t going to disrupt her life completely but wanted to support her. The friendships that were shown in the story were really a highlight to read. The spice was definitely spicy and well written. The magic system didn’t seem to be all that complicated which i appreciate. Since I tend to lose interest when authors develop a crazy overcomplicated magic system.
Thorns: Eryn wasn’t that great but she definitely had potential to be. She was so stubborn to even listen to Kai. I didn’t like that she didn’t take interest in trying to understand his point of view or anything about why they may be bonded to each other. The stubborn trait she has in this story really made her come across unlikable to me. There wasn’t much romance in this. It was all lust. I want to see a romantic relationship develop even if the characters are bonded to each other.
Thorns: Eryn wasn’t that great but she definitely had potential to be. She was so stubborn to even listen to Kai. I didn’t like that she didn’t take interest in trying to understand his point of view or anything about why they may be bonded to each other. The stubborn trait she has in this story really made her come across unlikable to me. There wasn’t much romance in this. It was all lust. I want to see a romantic relationship develop even if the characters are bonded to each other.
April 25, 2024
I received this as an ARC, and I’m so glad I did. This book is a supernatural romance that dives headfirst into bonded mates, witches, nightmares, djinn, and a whole host of supernaturals living in a human world.
Kai and Eryn share incredible banter and amazing chemistry. There is definitely spice and a slow burn bonding that doesn’t leave the reader wanting. I loved every bit of their chemistry. There’s a perfect balance between Eryn’s take no shit demeanor and Kai’s possessive and controlling behavior.
The reader is introduced to the characters and their magick in small bites, so it’s easy to understand this new world. While the politics surrounding the bonded pair is still a bit of a mystery, it nicely sets up the next book in the series. I can’t wait for the next one!
Kai and Eryn share incredible banter and amazing chemistry. There is definitely spice and a slow burn bonding that doesn’t leave the reader wanting. I loved every bit of their chemistry. There’s a perfect balance between Eryn’s take no shit demeanor and Kai’s possessive and controlling behavior.
The reader is introduced to the characters and their magick in small bites, so it’s easy to understand this new world. While the politics surrounding the bonded pair is still a bit of a mystery, it nicely sets up the next book in the series. I can’t wait for the next one!
May 24, 2024
I recommend this book to fans of:
- the Zodiac Academy anthology
- Blood and Ruin
- Serpent & Dove
- Broken Bonds
Eryn is one of the last remaining Nightmares. Hunted by all manner of supernatural creatures, Nightmares are an endangered species. That said, she still has dreams, and thus she enrolls in college to begin her journey towards becoming a veterinarian. Her plan to keep her head down and focus on her studies is thwarted, however, when she learns that her fated "Bond", a man named Kai, has followed her to school in hopes of forging the connection she rejected years ago. Kai is determined to protect Eryn from those who want her dead and ideally coax her into falling in love with him the way he is with her.
This book includes:
- fated mates
- academic university setting with Frats and partying included (not "academia" aesthetic tho)
- fun dynamic between FMC and her BFF
- dual POV
- Supernatural council with nasty politics
- vampires, sirens, witches, djinn, etc
"Bonded Nightmare" was a fast and fun read. Our introduction to Eryn allowed us to immediately understand her and her dreams, hopes, fears, and trauma. Despite this, I did find her to be one-dimensional and lacking in real agency. She was naive and dumb, and often made mistakes that were not in line with her lived experience or expressed anxieties. Kai is the typical protective, yet secretly sensitive hero. He also landed flat, and I think his character could have been much more effective if we hadn't been given access to his POV. That way we would have experienced Eryn's trepidation along with her, rather than be frustrated by her decision making. In all, I felt that the concept could have been successful with more practiced execution.
This book is a strong example of something I often find in the romantasy and/or paranormal romance genre. The dialogue and plot read very pedestrian and derivative. The themes lack the depth required to promote a book to something adults can enjoy. Thus, it would be better enjoyed by a YA audience. Maybe younger teens? However, the inclusion of intimate scenes makes it inappropriate for younger readers. Friends, the spicy wasn't even well written or the least bit tantalizing. I understand the argument that it needed to be included for purposes of "bonding" the fated mates, but let's be honest, this could have been easily achieved with an incantation or magical ceremony.
I received this ebook as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and E.M. Rinaldi for the opportunity to review this book.
- the Zodiac Academy anthology
- Blood and Ruin
- Serpent & Dove
- Broken Bonds
Eryn is one of the last remaining Nightmares. Hunted by all manner of supernatural creatures, Nightmares are an endangered species. That said, she still has dreams, and thus she enrolls in college to begin her journey towards becoming a veterinarian. Her plan to keep her head down and focus on her studies is thwarted, however, when she learns that her fated "Bond", a man named Kai, has followed her to school in hopes of forging the connection she rejected years ago. Kai is determined to protect Eryn from those who want her dead and ideally coax her into falling in love with him the way he is with her.
This book includes:
- fated mates
- academic university setting with Frats and partying included (not "academia" aesthetic tho)
- fun dynamic between FMC and her BFF
- dual POV
- Supernatural council with nasty politics
- vampires, sirens, witches, djinn, etc
"Bonded Nightmare" was a fast and fun read. Our introduction to Eryn allowed us to immediately understand her and her dreams, hopes, fears, and trauma. Despite this, I did find her to be one-dimensional and lacking in real agency. She was naive and dumb, and often made mistakes that were not in line with her lived experience or expressed anxieties. Kai is the typical protective, yet secretly sensitive hero. He also landed flat, and I think his character could have been much more effective if we hadn't been given access to his POV. That way we would have experienced Eryn's trepidation along with her, rather than be frustrated by her decision making. In all, I felt that the concept could have been successful with more practiced execution.
This book is a strong example of something I often find in the romantasy and/or paranormal romance genre. The dialogue and plot read very pedestrian and derivative. The themes lack the depth required to promote a book to something adults can enjoy. Thus, it would be better enjoyed by a YA audience. Maybe younger teens? However, the inclusion of intimate scenes makes it inappropriate for younger readers. Friends, the spicy wasn't even well written or the least bit tantalizing. I understand the argument that it needed to be included for purposes of "bonding" the fated mates, but let's be honest, this could have been easily achieved with an incantation or magical ceremony.
I received this ebook as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and E.M. Rinaldi for the opportunity to review this book.
August 25, 2024
This has actually been one of the worst times of my life. I wish I could rewrite this book and make it what it could be.
Pro:
* Helped me with my heartless hunter hangover
* I will say the 🌶️ scenes aren’t bad
* I read a new trope for the first time (fated mates)
Con:
* I don’t know if I’ll ever read another fated mates… also I think this cured my heartless hunter hangover but not in a good way
* There are so many 🌶️ scenes
* Reads like a 13 yr old wrote this as fanfic (takes one to know one)
* The fuckin storyline? What the fuck is going on? I know this is supposed to focus on the romance as the plot but like there’s no way this is being considered as good romantasy. I can handle a romantasy with a side of plot but this plot is like ordering your favorite meal and they bring you an empty plate. I think the premise is fun, I love a “we’re being hunted but our love is more important” ass story. But this just isn’t hitting.
* why would you write a scene where this man’s limp dick is still in Eryn and then his COUSIN comes in??
* Consent was so fucking weird in this book. Like the men made a point to be like “I always get consent. Consent. Consent. Consent.” But then would make weird comments that just felt like they weren’t consent kings. Like obvi in the scenes they did ask but then there’d be scenes talking about how easy it would be to just take her right then and there without her consent? But it’s okay bc she’ll orgasm?
* Truly in the last like 15 pages I almost had to dnf. I was prying my eyes to stay open and off my phone to something more interesting. The third act nearly made me dnf and put me in a slump.
* Lack of character depth really killed me. There was not a single second where I felt anything other than horny for a character. Like no sob story, happy tale, excitement did anything for me cuz these characters are so undeveloped.
* I’m throughly convinced this book is just for the smut. When miss girl said the plot focused on romance, what she meant was that it was a book of smut
Pro:
* Helped me with my heartless hunter hangover
* I will say the 🌶️ scenes aren’t bad
* I read a new trope for the first time (fated mates)
Con:
* I don’t know if I’ll ever read another fated mates… also I think this cured my heartless hunter hangover but not in a good way
* There are so many 🌶️ scenes
* Reads like a 13 yr old wrote this as fanfic (takes one to know one)
* The fuckin storyline? What the fuck is going on? I know this is supposed to focus on the romance as the plot but like there’s no way this is being considered as good romantasy. I can handle a romantasy with a side of plot but this plot is like ordering your favorite meal and they bring you an empty plate. I think the premise is fun, I love a “we’re being hunted but our love is more important” ass story. But this just isn’t hitting.
* why would you write a scene where this man’s limp dick is still in Eryn and then his COUSIN comes in??
* Consent was so fucking weird in this book. Like the men made a point to be like “I always get consent. Consent. Consent. Consent.” But then would make weird comments that just felt like they weren’t consent kings. Like obvi in the scenes they did ask but then there’d be scenes talking about how easy it would be to just take her right then and there without her consent? But it’s okay bc she’ll orgasm?
* Truly in the last like 15 pages I almost had to dnf. I was prying my eyes to stay open and off my phone to something more interesting. The third act nearly made me dnf and put me in a slump.
* Lack of character depth really killed me. There was not a single second where I felt anything other than horny for a character. Like no sob story, happy tale, excitement did anything for me cuz these characters are so undeveloped.
* I’m throughly convinced this book is just for the smut. When miss girl said the plot focused on romance, what she meant was that it was a book of smut
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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