What do you think?
Rate this book
Tethered Hearts
Ties of Death
A cursed king. A stolen bride. A desperate quest.
Emana hasn’t seen her best friend Daenn since she left their gryphon rider clan for an arranged marriage eight years ago. She doesn’t believe the rumors that he’s become a ruthless tyrant since ascending the throne… not until the warm, kind boy she once knew hunts her down, kills her husband, and steals her back to the clan.
This new Daenn is cold, driven, and harder than the steel he wields with bloody efficiency, yet he claims to need her. Or at least, he needs her magic to temper his own chaotic, deadly power—through the shackles of marriage. But when Emana tampers with the new bond between them, their magic begins lashing out on its own, striking down innocents in alarming numbers.
Now, to save her clan and free herself from Daenn, Emana must journey deep into the heart of the jungle with him in search of a way to destroy his magic for good. But the more they are together, the more she sees echoes of warmth beneath his icy exterior that hint that maybe he hasn’t changed as much as she thought. Except the search to severe their bond is filled with horrors, and destroying Daenn’s magic might require a heavy cost—his very life.
Ties of Death is book 5 in Tethered Hearts, a multi-author series of no spice fantasy romances. Each standalone story features a magical bond that forces the couple to discover how much they’re willing to sacrifice for the sake of love.
Emana hasn’t seen her best friend Daenn since she left their gryphon rider clan for an arranged marriage eight years ago. She doesn’t believe the rumors that he’s become a ruthless tyrant since ascending the throne… not until the warm, kind boy she once knew hunts her down, kills her husband, and steals her back to the clan.
This new Daenn is cold, driven, and harder than the steel he wields with bloody efficiency, yet he claims to need her. Or at least, he needs her magic to temper his own chaotic, deadly power—through the shackles of marriage. But when Emana tampers with the new bond between them, their magic begins lashing out on its own, striking down innocents in alarming numbers.
Now, to save her clan and free herself from Daenn, Emana must journey deep into the heart of the jungle with him in search of a way to destroy his magic for good. But the more they are together, the more she sees echoes of warmth beneath his icy exterior that hint that maybe he hasn’t changed as much as she thought. Except the search to severe their bond is filled with horrors, and destroying Daenn’s magic might require a heavy cost—his very life.
Ties of Death is book 5 in Tethered Hearts, a multi-author series of no spice fantasy romances. Each standalone story features a magical bond that forces the couple to discover how much they’re willing to sacrifice for the sake of love.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2025
120 people are currently reading
285 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
March 10, 2025
We are sucked in from chapter one and I LOVED IT.
Why?
Because the emotions in this book are so complicated and have SO MANY LAYERS that it was just so beautiful and the journey was adventurous and suspenseful but also had the characters growing so so so much!
Emana was married to an emotionally and verbally abusive dude.
Then that dude is killed by her childhood best friend who she loved.
And then he says hey you've got to marry me.
All in the first chapter. I mean. YOU HAVE TO FIND OUT HOW IT ENDS.
Though there were sensitive issues discussed like his death magic and her infertility while married to he-who-shall-not-be-named-idiot I loved how tenderly they were addressed.
Also there are gryphons. And gryphon babies.
Say less.
I loved and adored it. AND THE ENDING.
It's an in all caps ending just saying.
💋Kisses only
⚠️Read the author's note to sensitive readers at the beginning of the book
- I received an advanced reader copy but fell in love with it on my own because it was awesome.
Why?
Because the emotions in this book are so complicated and have SO MANY LAYERS that it was just so beautiful and the journey was adventurous and suspenseful but also had the characters growing so so so much!
Emana was married to an emotionally and verbally abusive dude.
Then that dude is killed by her childhood best friend who she loved.
And then he says hey you've got to marry me.
All in the first chapter. I mean. YOU HAVE TO FIND OUT HOW IT ENDS.
Though there were sensitive issues discussed like his death magic and her infertility while married to he-who-shall-not-be-named-idiot I loved how tenderly they were addressed.
Also there are gryphons. And gryphon babies.
Say less.
I loved and adored it. AND THE ENDING.
It's an in all caps ending just saying.
💋Kisses only
⚠️Read the author's note to sensitive readers at the beginning of the book
- I received an advanced reader copy but fell in love with it on my own because it was awesome.
February 27, 2025
-Single POV (mostly)
-Gryphon riders
-"Arranged" marriage
-Childhood friends
-Deadly magic and a deadly jungle
This author is an auto-buy author for me, loved this book as well as the Kasmian Chronicles series!
I received an ARC copy from the author. Opinions are my own.
-Gryphon riders
-"Arranged" marriage
-Childhood friends
-Deadly magic and a deadly jungle
This author is an auto-buy author for me, loved this book as well as the Kasmian Chronicles series!
I received an ARC copy from the author. Opinions are my own.
April 29, 2025
This book is seriously SO INCREDIBLE! I have read it a few times already, and I love it more every time I read it. I adore the characters, the story is absolutely beautiful, and the ending is pure perfection! This epilogue is probably the best one I've ever read, and it makes me so so so happy! The first line is seriously the best one ever. It captivated me from literally the very beginning. I love how this one still has the warm book hug feeling while dealing with deeper, and at times less happy, emotions. Constance is seriously brilliant! Her writing is beautiful and flows so well that I forget I'm even reading. I'm just living in this made up world with these characters, and it's so wonderful! I don't know how she does it, but I cannot recommend this one enough! It's a whirlwind of emotions and seriously amazing through and through!
March 23, 2025
Gryphons! The creation of new magic from intertwining death and calming magic. A childhood friend and love that never had a chance before. A marriage born from the murder of the bride's former husband. From the start, this story had me intrigued. Upon reading it, I was not disappointed. The book lived up to its promise and delivered spectacularly.
Emana had her weaknesses, but she showed her iron will. Daenn started off pretty terribly, but as his exterior slowly revealed to the reader, he clearly became the perfect match for Emana. Not to mention, except for forcing her into the marriage, he was always polite and kind, willing to put her first. They had great chemistry together by the end of the book. The gryphons launched the book into the stratosphere of excellence for me - I fell in love with Zephyr, Storm, Raindrop, the culture built around them, and their nurturing protective nature.
I appreciated the content warnings at the beginning of the book. I thought Emana's perceived infertility was handled well in addition to the emotional and psychological abuse her deceased husband put her through. I'm very glad that her new husband proved himself significantly better throughout the book.
Constance Lopez wrote yet another fantastic book I can't rate highly enough. While this book does have a little connection to the Elyri from The Winter Prince, the mention is brief, and this book can easily stand alone.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Emana had her weaknesses, but she showed her iron will. Daenn started off pretty terribly, but as his exterior slowly revealed to the reader, he clearly became the perfect match for Emana. Not to mention, except for forcing her into the marriage, he was always polite and kind, willing to put her first. They had great chemistry together by the end of the book. The gryphons launched the book into the stratosphere of excellence for me - I fell in love with Zephyr, Storm, Raindrop, the culture built around them, and their nurturing protective nature.
I appreciated the content warnings at the beginning of the book. I thought Emana's perceived infertility was handled well in addition to the emotional and psychological abuse her deceased husband put her through. I'm very glad that her new husband proved himself significantly better throughout the book.
Constance Lopez wrote yet another fantastic book I can't rate highly enough. While this book does have a little connection to the Elyri from The Winter Prince, the mention is brief, and this book can easily stand alone.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2025
I received an ARC from the author but was not required to leave a review. This is my honest, voluntary opinion of the book upon my completion
if reading it.
I was captivated by this book and the love two friends had for each other growing up until the boy’s
father who was the king required the girl to enter an arranged marriage to another for strengthening relations between the two kingdoms. This marriage
turned out to be devastating for the woman Emana
as her husband abused her emotionally and to a degree physically. Being denied friends she was alone until her boyfriend of her childhood turns up and in a rage from her abusive husband kills him and takes her away with him to marry her. She doesn’t know this new version of the boy she knew but learns the magic she possesses will help counterbalance his magic which brings death.
From a desire to get far away from him, she sees a chance when he shares news of a myth that may just be real and it embarks them both on a perilous journey to retrieve two objects which may stop his magic and provide her her freedom from him. However, being in close proximity and battling the monsters and people who they come up against, she finds she sees her old friend within this new man who is her king and now her husband and fights harder to help him achieve their mutual goal only to find upon their return the throne is taken over by his cousin! She had tried to banish his magic from her but in doing so it mutated and caused people to not die but fall into a sleep they weren’t waking from and would die if something couldn’t be done to waken them. With the magical objects on her husband her magic is freed from his and in a last ditch attempt she finds she can heal those who fell into the sleep earlier that could be revived though those who were affected in the outset still perished. She also discovers something he hid from her by wearing the objects and she is faced with a choice of breaking from his wishes or following her heart.
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this wonderful book! It epitomizes how destructive a
controlling individual can have on another and how a selfless love for another can heal her as a result!
There are adventures and thrills, battles both with enemies and within oneself as two people essentially try to protect each other from themselves due to what they really feel inside but are afraid to express it out loud. Can two childhood friends overcome what has befallen both of them since they were separated due to circumstances they couldn’t control and find each other once again? How much are they willing to sacrifice for the other?
I believe you’ll be as delighted by this book as I was so that’s why I’m happy to recommend it to you to read and enjoy!
if reading it.
I was captivated by this book and the love two friends had for each other growing up until the boy’s
father who was the king required the girl to enter an arranged marriage to another for strengthening relations between the two kingdoms. This marriage
turned out to be devastating for the woman Emana
as her husband abused her emotionally and to a degree physically. Being denied friends she was alone until her boyfriend of her childhood turns up and in a rage from her abusive husband kills him and takes her away with him to marry her. She doesn’t know this new version of the boy she knew but learns the magic she possesses will help counterbalance his magic which brings death.
From a desire to get far away from him, she sees a chance when he shares news of a myth that may just be real and it embarks them both on a perilous journey to retrieve two objects which may stop his magic and provide her her freedom from him. However, being in close proximity and battling the monsters and people who they come up against, she finds she sees her old friend within this new man who is her king and now her husband and fights harder to help him achieve their mutual goal only to find upon their return the throne is taken over by his cousin! She had tried to banish his magic from her but in doing so it mutated and caused people to not die but fall into a sleep they weren’t waking from and would die if something couldn’t be done to waken them. With the magical objects on her husband her magic is freed from his and in a last ditch attempt she finds she can heal those who fell into the sleep earlier that could be revived though those who were affected in the outset still perished. She also discovers something he hid from her by wearing the objects and she is faced with a choice of breaking from his wishes or following her heart.
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this wonderful book! It epitomizes how destructive a
controlling individual can have on another and how a selfless love for another can heal her as a result!
There are adventures and thrills, battles both with enemies and within oneself as two people essentially try to protect each other from themselves due to what they really feel inside but are afraid to express it out loud. Can two childhood friends overcome what has befallen both of them since they were separated due to circumstances they couldn’t control and find each other once again? How much are they willing to sacrifice for the other?
I believe you’ll be as delighted by this book as I was so that’s why I’m happy to recommend it to you to read and enjoy!
April 4, 2025
Well, I’ll say one thing for certain, Constance Lopez does not disappoint when it comes to creative storytelling. She captivated me from the beginning with her opening scene. Best scene opening I think
I’ve ever read. I loved the story of the two main characters from friends to enemies to lovers and watching them develop. Unfortunately, I didn’t give this a five star because it’s on the boarder line for me on my stance with fantasy books (of what I like and dislike). Well crafted and wonderfully told story, but just a personal preference of not my favorite. Also, this book was good on the deep heavy matter of a unhealthy marriage.
“You’re allowed to feel relief when a man who so clearly disrespected and mistreated you is removed from your life.”
Thank you for the ARC Constance Lopez. This review and all opinions are my own.
I’ve ever read. I loved the story of the two main characters from friends to enemies to lovers and watching them develop. Unfortunately, I didn’t give this a five star because it’s on the boarder line for me on my stance with fantasy books (of what I like and dislike). Well crafted and wonderfully told story, but just a personal preference of not my favorite. Also, this book was good on the deep heavy matter of a unhealthy marriage.
“You’re allowed to feel relief when a man who so clearly disrespected and mistreated you is removed from your life.”
Thank you for the ARC Constance Lopez. This review and all opinions are my own.
April 6, 2025
Amazing doesn't quite cover this book
This was such a phenomenal read! Emana left her clan eight years ago for a marriage of peace and hasn't been able to return since. On a fateful morning filled with violence, her childhood friend and the now king of the gryphon clan, has come to claim her and her magic as his own. Emana is angry and rightfully so, without thought or question she is tossed into her old world but with a man she no longer recognizes. When their magic tangles in a way that endangers everyone around them, can rumors of magical artifacts save them all? Facing the dangers of the jungle and terror in the skies, Emana and Daenn must figure it out, somehow, or die trying. Constance did such an amazing job with the imagery of the world and the gryphons! The tension and anger were palpable and justified on both sides, also written so well that you believe all of it. The clan and those around are spoken of or written in a kind and loved way. They aren't just names on the page. I can't recommend this book enough!
"You were worried about his magic—but you should have been worried about mine.”
This was such a phenomenal read! Emana left her clan eight years ago for a marriage of peace and hasn't been able to return since. On a fateful morning filled with violence, her childhood friend and the now king of the gryphon clan, has come to claim her and her magic as his own. Emana is angry and rightfully so, without thought or question she is tossed into her old world but with a man she no longer recognizes. When their magic tangles in a way that endangers everyone around them, can rumors of magical artifacts save them all? Facing the dangers of the jungle and terror in the skies, Emana and Daenn must figure it out, somehow, or die trying. Constance did such an amazing job with the imagery of the world and the gryphons! The tension and anger were palpable and justified on both sides, also written so well that you believe all of it. The clan and those around are spoken of or written in a kind and loved way. They aren't just names on the page. I can't recommend this book enough!
"You were worried about his magic—but you should have been worried about mine.”
March 17, 2025
I was delighted to receive an ARC from the author, because I like all of her other books so much. I would rate this one 4.5 stars. Just as with the others, I enjoyed this one a lot. I like the arranged marriage trope, so that was right up my alley. There were lots of tangled feelings to sort out for the heroine, who for many, many years wished she was married to the hero, but now that she is, doesn't want to be, because he seems to be a totally different person than she used to know. But as is always the case, initial assumptions prove wrong, and there is a lot more to find out. There was one thing that felt like a plot hole to me, hence the subtraction of .5 stars, but it didn't really take away from the emotional journey the hero and heroine were on.
The book takes place in Kasmia, the land of Lopez's Kasmian Chronicles, but aside from some unnamed Elyri coming into the story at one point, you would never know it. It's totally standalone, but I do wish she'd included the map of Kasmia, with locations for the gryphon clans' mountains, the jungle, and Verksland marked. Those of us who have read her Kasmian Chronicles could have placed it geographically in relation to the other stories, and those who haven't would still have a map with the places in the story. I always like maps in my books, whether they're series or standalone.
I'm looking forward to reading the other books in the Tethered Hearts series! This is a great group of authors!
The book takes place in Kasmia, the land of Lopez's Kasmian Chronicles, but aside from some unnamed Elyri coming into the story at one point, you would never know it. It's totally standalone, but I do wish she'd included the map of Kasmia, with locations for the gryphon clans' mountains, the jungle, and Verksland marked. Those of us who have read her Kasmian Chronicles could have placed it geographically in relation to the other stories, and those who haven't would still have a map with the places in the story. I always like maps in my books, whether they're series or standalone.
I'm looking forward to reading the other books in the Tethered Hearts series! This is a great group of authors!
March 19, 2025
I have read almost everything Constance Lopez has wrote, and enjoyed almost all of them…but Ties of Death reached almost a Kate Stradling level of writing. It was insanely good and insanely swoony.
I usually don’t love first person POV, but it worked so well in Ties of Death.
The characters were written so well, I loved both main characters so much.
World building is great, I loved the gryphons and the jungle.
I loved that I didn’t get any YA vibes from Ties of Death, AND it was kept very clean. There was so much depth to the characters and the plot was so very well thought out. I enjoyed every second of it.
The only thing I don’t love is the cover 😭, but fingers crossed that eventually it will have a cover option without the fake people trying to look real people cover, because this is definitely a book I plan on buy a copy for my bookshelf.
Content: clean, no spice, no swearing, mild violence
Thank you dear author for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
I usually don’t love first person POV, but it worked so well in Ties of Death.
The characters were written so well, I loved both main characters so much.
World building is great, I loved the gryphons and the jungle.
I loved that I didn’t get any YA vibes from Ties of Death, AND it was kept very clean. There was so much depth to the characters and the plot was so very well thought out. I enjoyed every second of it.
The only thing I don’t love is the cover 😭, but fingers crossed that eventually it will have a cover option without the fake people trying to look real people cover, because this is definitely a book I plan on buy a copy for my bookshelf.
Content: clean, no spice, no swearing, mild violence
Thank you dear author for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
December 30, 2024
Another fantastic book by Constance Lopez! Forced marriage, high stakes adventure, and a bond that can dredge up all the emotions. Follow Emana as she navigates returning home to a changed childhood friend turned husband and the peril that ensues.
Constance infused this book with so much heart and adventure the book was difficult to put down. I needed to know what happens and I wasn’t disappointed.
Look for this book when it releases April 4th, 2025. Especially if you like, forced marriage, childhood friends to enemies to more, griffons, and fantasy adventure.
I read an alpha and then beta copy. Thank you Constance for trusting me with your book. ♥️
Constance infused this book with so much heart and adventure the book was difficult to put down. I needed to know what happens and I wasn’t disappointed.
Look for this book when it releases April 4th, 2025. Especially if you like, forced marriage, childhood friends to enemies to more, griffons, and fantasy adventure.
I read an alpha and then beta copy. Thank you Constance for trusting me with your book. ♥️
March 3, 2025
Disclosure: I received an advanced readers copy of this book.
Review: This book had me hooked from the very beginning. The first line in the book captured my full attention and had it throughout the entire story.
“Come morning, I will have had three names in my life. First, the name I was born with. Second, the name I took when I married my husband. And third, apparently, the name of the man who just murdered my husband.”
This was so incredibly well written and is a perfect continuation of the series. Even though they are connected, they are separate and are wonderful stories so far. The series is called Tethered Hearts and I highly recommend these books to anyone who is a fan of no spice romance and clean fantasy. There was no explicit language, which is very refreshing to read (or not read as is the case). Another job well done, Constance!!
Review: This book had me hooked from the very beginning. The first line in the book captured my full attention and had it throughout the entire story.
“Come morning, I will have had three names in my life. First, the name I was born with. Second, the name I took when I married my husband. And third, apparently, the name of the man who just murdered my husband.”
This was so incredibly well written and is a perfect continuation of the series. Even though they are connected, they are separate and are wonderful stories so far. The series is called Tethered Hearts and I highly recommend these books to anyone who is a fan of no spice romance and clean fantasy. There was no explicit language, which is very refreshing to read (or not read as is the case). Another job well done, Constance!!
February 26, 2025
Honestly, this book was great. Well written, with a unique plot and relatable characters. It just didn't stir up any strong emotions in me. Which is strange, since I usually love this author's books. Usually, I'm on the edge of my seat, rooting for her characters. But not this time.
Sure, I liked Emana; she had a strong and defiant voice, despite what she's been through. And I absolutely loved Daenn. But the story just . . . didn't click for me.
Still, I adored the ending. It was just perfect for these characters. Maybe I'll read it again someday, and enjoy it better then. All I'll say is read it for yourself; It has unique takes on magic, a bit of adventure, and the kind of happy ending we all want.
* I received an ARC of Ties of Death from its author and I'm giving this honest review of my own free will.
Sure, I liked Emana; she had a strong and defiant voice, despite what she's been through. And I absolutely loved Daenn. But the story just . . . didn't click for me.
Still, I adored the ending. It was just perfect for these characters. Maybe I'll read it again someday, and enjoy it better then. All I'll say is read it for yourself; It has unique takes on magic, a bit of adventure, and the kind of happy ending we all want.
* I received an ARC of Ties of Death from its author and I'm giving this honest review of my own free will.
April 1, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
It would not have taken me four days to finish this book if I had not been working!
Content warnings:
Sexual content: Some talk of consummating a marriage, talk of infertility, and some kisses (though non-descriptive)
Language: One use of “bastard”
Violence and gore: The main characters fight and kill a lot of people, though there is little to no description.
To start this off, I love this book! It was addicting and I don’t know why. I was 35% in at one point and I was so gripped by this book even though nothing had actually happened yet… wow.
Also, we have to talk about the opening paragraph:
“Come morning, I will have had three names in my life. First, the name I was born with. Second, the name I took when I married my husband. And third, apparently, the name of the man who just murdered my husband.”
What??? That’s so intriguing to me. If it’s not you, well, it’s bc you haven’t read the closing line yet.
“I’ve had three names in my life. But Emana Henriken, wife to Daenn, king of the Allied Gryphon Clans, is by far my favorite.”
THATS SO GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can’t stress enough that I enjoyed this book a lot!
I was really sad we didn’t get Daenns POV through the entirety of the book though. She gave us one chapter towards the end based off of where this book started… and that was it. I wish I had more from him. Oh well 😭
I have never considered gryphons to be anything but a Serious mount (laugh if you like Harry Potter😏). No one uses it, so I thought that was a super fun part of the book, especially considering they were intelligent, not like an animal.
As you’ve likely noted, I love Daenn. He is the literal definition of a misunderstood guy. I felt so bad for the way Emana was acting toward him for the first 30%, but at the same time… she didn’t see things from his perspective and she actually kinda had a right to feel the way she did. Nonetheless, I felt for Daenn.
Emana was a pretty good female lead. I didn’t hate her, but I wanted to slap her with as many times as she mentioned “being free” of Daenn. Girl, you’re all cuddly and thinking about him, and then you’re lying to yourself. Just admit the truth!
I didn’t really have a favorite character, however. I didn’t feel like we saw enough of the real Daenn for me to consider him a favorite, and I didn’t love Emana enough to make her my favorite (they were still good characters, mind you).
Something that felt out of place to me was Emanas tattoo. I thought it would be more important than it was… but it’s not really mentioned after 50% at all. I just felt like it wasn’t really necessary. I forgot she had a tattoo most of the time until I looked at the cover.
Overall, this was a really good book! I enjoyed it a lot!!! I will most definitely be buying a physical copy when it’s released!
While I did receive this book as an ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own! Thank you to the author for this book!!!
It would not have taken me four days to finish this book if I had not been working!
Content warnings:
Sexual content: Some talk of consummating a marriage, talk of infertility, and some kisses (though non-descriptive)
Language: One use of “bastard”
Violence and gore: The main characters fight and kill a lot of people, though there is little to no description.
To start this off, I love this book! It was addicting and I don’t know why. I was 35% in at one point and I was so gripped by this book even though nothing had actually happened yet… wow.
Also, we have to talk about the opening paragraph:
“Come morning, I will have had three names in my life. First, the name I was born with. Second, the name I took when I married my husband. And third, apparently, the name of the man who just murdered my husband.”
What??? That’s so intriguing to me. If it’s not you, well, it’s bc you haven’t read the closing line yet.
“I’ve had three names in my life. But Emana Henriken, wife to Daenn, king of the Allied Gryphon Clans, is by far my favorite.”
THATS SO GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can’t stress enough that I enjoyed this book a lot!
I was really sad we didn’t get Daenns POV through the entirety of the book though. She gave us one chapter towards the end based off of where this book started… and that was it. I wish I had more from him. Oh well 😭
I have never considered gryphons to be anything but a Serious mount (laugh if you like Harry Potter😏). No one uses it, so I thought that was a super fun part of the book, especially considering they were intelligent, not like an animal.
As you’ve likely noted, I love Daenn. He is the literal definition of a misunderstood guy. I felt so bad for the way Emana was acting toward him for the first 30%, but at the same time… she didn’t see things from his perspective and she actually kinda had a right to feel the way she did. Nonetheless, I felt for Daenn.
Emana was a pretty good female lead. I didn’t hate her, but I wanted to slap her with as many times as she mentioned “being free” of Daenn. Girl, you’re all cuddly and thinking about him, and then you’re lying to yourself. Just admit the truth!
I didn’t really have a favorite character, however. I didn’t feel like we saw enough of the real Daenn for me to consider him a favorite, and I didn’t love Emana enough to make her my favorite (they were still good characters, mind you).
Something that felt out of place to me was Emanas tattoo. I thought it would be more important than it was… but it’s not really mentioned after 50% at all. I just felt like it wasn’t really necessary. I forgot she had a tattoo most of the time until I looked at the cover.
Overall, this was a really good book! I enjoyed it a lot!!! I will most definitely be buying a physical copy when it’s released!
While I did receive this book as an ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own! Thank you to the author for this book!!!
March 18, 2025
I would give this book 6 stars if I could! It is my favorite book so far this year. It had me feeling so many emotions- fury at how the FMC was being treated by the men in her life, excitement learning about their magic, gryphons and their riders, plus tears with the swoony feels as well!
I was drawn in immediately and really loved how the author described the world with the various clans. It was so refreshing to see BOTH MCs grow emotionally as they worked to conquer the curse.
I can't recommend this enough and know it will be one I read over and over!
I was drawn in immediately and really loved how the author described the world with the various clans. It was so refreshing to see BOTH MCs grow emotionally as they worked to conquer the curse.
I can't recommend this enough and know it will be one I read over and over!
April 8, 2025
Emana and Daenn were best friends until Emana was married off and left their gryphon rider clan eight years ago. When they now meet again Daenn has killed her husband and demands that Emana follows him back and marries him. The rumors about him seem to be true; that since he took over the throne he's become a ruthless tyrant. Daenn insists that he needs Emana's magic to balance his own deadly power, but when she tries to break the bond between them she only creates an even worse situation.
"Come morning, I will have had three names in my life. First, the name I was born with. Second, the name I took when I married my husband. And third, apparently, the name of the man who just murdered my husband."
The opening lines definitely create interest and I'm immidiately hooked! It then never lets go and I read it in two sittings (had to work in between!). Emana and Daenn are both well thought out and exciting to follow. We only get Emana's POV and it makes it easy to understand her conflicting feelings towards Daenn. He appears cold-hearted and it takes a while before we learn of his motive, even though it's evident there's a reason behind his behavior. The magic system feels unique, the story offers a lot of excitement - and romantic gestures, of course! And can we talk about why not more books have gryphons in them?!
There's also a heavier subject in this book, which I think the author handles in a respectful way. Emana's first husband abused her mentally and often accused her of not being able to give him an heir. Considering the husband is killed in the beginning of the book I think those retrospective scenes were a bit easier to read, but it could be triggering to some.
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
"Come morning, I will have had three names in my life. First, the name I was born with. Second, the name I took when I married my husband. And third, apparently, the name of the man who just murdered my husband."
The opening lines definitely create interest and I'm immidiately hooked! It then never lets go and I read it in two sittings (had to work in between!). Emana and Daenn are both well thought out and exciting to follow. We only get Emana's POV and it makes it easy to understand her conflicting feelings towards Daenn. He appears cold-hearted and it takes a while before we learn of his motive, even though it's evident there's a reason behind his behavior. The magic system feels unique, the story offers a lot of excitement - and romantic gestures, of course! And can we talk about why not more books have gryphons in them?!
There's also a heavier subject in this book, which I think the author handles in a respectful way. Emana's first husband abused her mentally and often accused her of not being able to give him an heir. Considering the husband is killed in the beginning of the book I think those retrospective scenes were a bit easier to read, but it could be triggering to some.
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
April 4, 2025
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
I'm on the street team for this series and was excited to read anything from it, yet this book left me feeling uncomfortable. Thankfully, it starts with a trigger warning, but the story just didn't have anything in it that appealed to me. It starts with the main character feeling traumatized that the guy she once liked killed her husband and forced her to marry him. Then she learns that he's cursed and that anyone who spends too much time around him dies, but she's somehow immune to it. The rest of the book is about them trying to figure out how to break the curse.
I love fantasy and romance, but this story was just too dark for me and had seemingly no levity whatsoever. I'm eager to read the other books from this series by authors I've enjoyed in the past. I hate to leave a negative review for something I'm on the street team for, but I needed to get my true feelings out there. I won't share this review in my blog in case it deters people from giving the book a chance.
I'm on the street team for this series and was excited to read anything from it, yet this book left me feeling uncomfortable. Thankfully, it starts with a trigger warning, but the story just didn't have anything in it that appealed to me. It starts with the main character feeling traumatized that the guy she once liked killed her husband and forced her to marry him. Then she learns that he's cursed and that anyone who spends too much time around him dies, but she's somehow immune to it. The rest of the book is about them trying to figure out how to break the curse.
I love fantasy and romance, but this story was just too dark for me and had seemingly no levity whatsoever. I'm eager to read the other books from this series by authors I've enjoyed in the past. I hate to leave a negative review for something I'm on the street team for, but I needed to get my true feelings out there. I won't share this review in my blog in case it deters people from giving the book a chance.
April 4, 2025
I adored this book! And that opening paragraph was the best! Emana and Daenn are childhood friends, but when Daenn shows up to Emana’s husband’s house seeking Emana’s help things go awry. Now Emana is being taken back to her childhood home to become the wife of the King of the gryphon clan. I loved the characters, and I loved the magic. Definitely love all of Constance Lopez’s books!
I received an ARC copy from the author 💙
I received an ARC copy from the author 💙
April 4, 2025
This book starts off with a bang! Like literal first chapter the story is off running, entering you in on a wild ride that you are sure to love! At least I would hope so 😉
This story has action, it has adventure, it has a stolen bride, death magic, peace magic, elves, gryphons, monsters trying to eat people, battles, heartbreak, pain, healing, love and so much more.
The plotting was really clever throughout the whole story. With flashbacks of Emana's memories from the past 8 years before the present time of the story, giving you insight into her past and her reasoning for the way she acts at times. And just the way the story played out, so many things happened and you don't know why until something comes to fruition and your like "Ah! I see now!" 🤭 You could call it plot armor but it was awesome and I loved it.
Emana is the FMC, she has been isolated and taken away from everything she knows and loves. But is still strong and brave, she doesn't let it break her spirit. She is fierce and protective, selfless and kind. She learns to trust again and opens up her heart to the truth of her feelings, despite trying to tamp them down.
Daenn is the MMC, he has made mistakes and he's desperate. But he tries so hard to do what is best for his people, as their king. All he wants is to keep everyone safe and protect Emana. He is self sacrificing, brave, honorable, truly a swoony knight in "leather" shining armor 😉
Thier relationship is rocky, but blossoms into something so sweet and beautiful. Their romance is a childhood friends to enemies to lovers, full of unspoken words, tension, memories both good and bad, and deep true love that is wonderful to read about. There is also many side characters and the relationships between all of them were amazing too, whether it was motherly figures, best friends, or gryphons they all added their own bit of personality to the story.
Also the way it ended was just 🫠 I can't, it's so good! You must read it!
Content: No-Spice/kisses only, no swearing, emotional and verbal abuse (talked about it past tense and shown in flashbacks), some suggestive comments, infertility, death/murder, violence. (Nothing is graphic or gory)
*I received this book as an arc, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
This story has action, it has adventure, it has a stolen bride, death magic, peace magic, elves, gryphons, monsters trying to eat people, battles, heartbreak, pain, healing, love and so much more.
The plotting was really clever throughout the whole story. With flashbacks of Emana's memories from the past 8 years before the present time of the story, giving you insight into her past and her reasoning for the way she acts at times. And just the way the story played out, so many things happened and you don't know why until something comes to fruition and your like "Ah! I see now!" 🤭 You could call it plot armor but it was awesome and I loved it.
Emana is the FMC, she has been isolated and taken away from everything she knows and loves. But is still strong and brave, she doesn't let it break her spirit. She is fierce and protective, selfless and kind. She learns to trust again and opens up her heart to the truth of her feelings, despite trying to tamp them down.
Daenn is the MMC, he has made mistakes and he's desperate. But he tries so hard to do what is best for his people, as their king. All he wants is to keep everyone safe and protect Emana. He is self sacrificing, brave, honorable, truly a swoony knight in "leather" shining armor 😉
Thier relationship is rocky, but blossoms into something so sweet and beautiful. Their romance is a childhood friends to enemies to lovers, full of unspoken words, tension, memories both good and bad, and deep true love that is wonderful to read about. There is also many side characters and the relationships between all of them were amazing too, whether it was motherly figures, best friends, or gryphons they all added their own bit of personality to the story.
Also the way it ended was just 🫠 I can't, it's so good! You must read it!
Content: No-Spice/kisses only, no swearing, emotional and verbal abuse (talked about it past tense and shown in flashbacks), some suggestive comments, infertility, death/murder, violence. (Nothing is graphic or gory)
*I received this book as an arc, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
April 4, 2025
Big fan of Constance Lopez’s books here! This is the kind of story that starts almost in the middle. The past is revealed through a lot of memories or flashback chapters. The romance is slow burn and sweet. I really enjoyed both of the main characters. Their struggles and feelings felt real, and I was rooting for them!
I don’t know why I didn’t love it, though. It just felt like the spark was missing somewhere, if that makes any sense. I was a little confused about the magic system.
I’ll probably return to this book sometime and give it a reread! Maybe now that I’m acquainted with the world and characters, I’ll get into the story right away!
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
I don’t know why I didn’t love it, though. It just felt like the spark was missing somewhere, if that makes any sense. I was a little confused about the magic system.
I’ll probably return to this book sometime and give it a reread! Maybe now that I’m acquainted with the world and characters, I’ll get into the story right away!
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
November 3, 2025
This book was SO GOOD 🤩🤩🤩 Second chance romance + best friends to enemies to lovers + marrying childhood friend + marriage of convenience/forced marriage = 10/10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🎉
TOTALLY recommend! 🥰
🚫🌶️ = no spice romance
🚫🙈 = no explicit intimate scenes (but of course they are married and have a kid in the epilogue so it is eventually assumed)
🚫🤬 = no cussing (it mentions sentences like “he swore” but never detail the swear)
📉⚔️ = low-mild violence (fantasy violence so mention of blood and killing enemies/monsters but nothing too graphic)
🚫🏳️🌈 = no LGBTQ+ references or representations
🚫✝️ = no Christian references (but there was a made up fantasy religion including monks and chants)
📈🪄 = this is fantasy so there’s a ton of magic!!! (Not necessarily saying that’s good or bad but it is very prominent in this book :)
TOTALLY recommend! 🥰
🚫🌶️ = no spice romance
🚫🙈 = no explicit intimate scenes (but of course they are married and have a kid in the epilogue so it is eventually assumed)
🚫🤬 = no cussing (it mentions sentences like “he swore” but never detail the swear)
📉⚔️ = low-mild violence (fantasy violence so mention of blood and killing enemies/monsters but nothing too graphic)
🚫🏳️🌈 = no LGBTQ+ references or representations
🚫✝️ = no Christian references (but there was a made up fantasy religion including monks and chants)
📈🪄 = this is fantasy so there’s a ton of magic!!! (Not necessarily saying that’s good or bad but it is very prominent in this book :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2025
Another beautiful swoony romance from Ms. Lopez, complete with a dark and broody MMC who fights like no other (but doesn't need his sword to take a life) and a stubborn but rational FMC. I love that this one is not an insta-love, but more of a friends to enemies to friends to lovers sort of deal. I'm not usually a fan of the miscommunication trope, but I did appreciate the fact that the two were able to talk things out in a sensible manner eventually and get over their hangups. I also really appreciate the inclusion of the concepts of consent and struggles with infertility and feeling like/being treated like less of a woman because you can not or have not had children. Let's not forget the gryphons! They are becoming more popular in a dragon-centric fantasy world, but I still don't think they are represented enough and love the bond between the characters and their gryphon friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2025
"Come morning, I will have three names in my life. First, the name I was born with. Second, the name I took when I married my husband. And third, apparently, the name of the man who just murdered my husband."
📚
And just like that, with four simple sentences, Constance Lopez had me hooked!! Her new book Ties of Death releases on April 4, 2025. And if you're a no-spice romantasy reader like me then you HAVE to read this book!! Constance has a way with words that will draw you in and leave you wanting more! I thoroughly enjoyed this book!!
📚
I receive this book as an ARC from the author. All opinions are my own.
📚
#TetheredHeartsSeries #multiauthorseries #forcedproximity #grphyons #childhoodfriends #enemiestolovers #stolenbride #nospiceromance #romantasy
📚
And just like that, with four simple sentences, Constance Lopez had me hooked!! Her new book Ties of Death releases on April 4, 2025. And if you're a no-spice romantasy reader like me then you HAVE to read this book!! Constance has a way with words that will draw you in and leave you wanting more! I thoroughly enjoyed this book!!
📚
I receive this book as an ARC from the author. All opinions are my own.
📚
#TetheredHeartsSeries #multiauthorseries #forcedproximity #grphyons #childhoodfriends #enemiestolovers #stolenbride #nospiceromance #romantasy
April 5, 2025
Ties of Death Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an ARC of this book and my views are solely my own.
Constance Lopez has been producing some of the best no-spice romantic fantasy stories out there, and she has done it again!
I love a good fantasy, a wonderful romance, and fantastic story.
This book checked all the boxes. The characters have incredible story arcs for a shorter book. I first wondered how on earth the premise could work for me. It sounded so dark and difficult. But boy, was I amazed and impressed at just how perfectly it did work!
There is more mystery in this book than I expected, and I adored that! Truly, there wasn't a single moment where I felt even a little bored. The storyline captivated me as much as the characters themselves, and the world they exist in was beautifully written. The magic, too, was intriguing and mysterious until the very end.
I could go on and on describing everything I loved about this book, but everyone should just read it for themselves. It may be the best Constance Lopez book yet (but they're all good, so that's a stiff competition).
Lastly, I just have to say that the gryphon flying is epic. Everything about the gryphons is nothing short of awesome! I loved them so much!!
This book is a 10/10 for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an ARC of this book and my views are solely my own.
Constance Lopez has been producing some of the best no-spice romantic fantasy stories out there, and she has done it again!
I love a good fantasy, a wonderful romance, and fantastic story.
This book checked all the boxes. The characters have incredible story arcs for a shorter book. I first wondered how on earth the premise could work for me. It sounded so dark and difficult. But boy, was I amazed and impressed at just how perfectly it did work!
There is more mystery in this book than I expected, and I adored that! Truly, there wasn't a single moment where I felt even a little bored. The storyline captivated me as much as the characters themselves, and the world they exist in was beautifully written. The magic, too, was intriguing and mysterious until the very end.
I could go on and on describing everything I loved about this book, but everyone should just read it for themselves. It may be the best Constance Lopez book yet (but they're all good, so that's a stiff competition).
Lastly, I just have to say that the gryphon flying is epic. Everything about the gryphons is nothing short of awesome! I loved them so much!!
This book is a 10/10 for me.
April 1, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I thought the characters were really well fleshed out, and I loved seeing them navigate complex emotions and challenging situations. I really like the unique mountain cave setting! That's not something you see everyday.
I liked that Emana was a strong female character without being stabby or super violent. She does fight when she needs to, but her strength is her resilience and determination. Her struggle with infertility was so sad, but also delicately handled.
And who doesn't love an MMC who would do anything for his lady?! Daenn was such a great character, always shifting from tough and stubborn to gentle and caring and back again.
Highly recommend to anyone who likes no spice fantasy romance with forced proximity!
I did receive an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I liked that Emana was a strong female character without being stabby or super violent. She does fight when she needs to, but her strength is her resilience and determination. Her struggle with infertility was so sad, but also delicately handled.
And who doesn't love an MMC who would do anything for his lady?! Daenn was such a great character, always shifting from tough and stubborn to gentle and caring and back again.
Highly recommend to anyone who likes no spice fantasy romance with forced proximity!
I did receive an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 14, 2025
Absolutely loved this one! WOW! I could not put it down, had to find out what happened as you could sense that there was more to it. Loved them both so much and what an enduring love. The epilogue forever has my heart!
March 11, 2025
PLEASE BE AWARE OF TRIGGERS: spousal abuse+verbal and mental) as well as feelings of inadequacy and self worth
In the notes at the beginning of the book, Constance states "May it speak to your heart and inspire, encourage and entertain you" And boy did it ever! Oh dear heavens, it did churn my emotions, the current taking me downstream, me flailings about and desperate for breath. It spoke to me on an intimate level, writhing into my psychi, it DID inspired me to remember not everything is as it seems at face value, it DID encouraged me to know there always is a solution, no matter how hopeless it might seem, and it sure as the stars DID entertain me! In true Constance style, I was already absorbing the feels she so generously splashed out from the very first page, I was finding it impossible to tear my eyes off the pages. I'm still reeling in emotions, I'm not sure how to pen my thoughts...but let me start with an outline.
Emi would have done anything to be free of her violent, drunk, abusive husband. Anything to go home. Anything to be with her childhood sweetheart. But not like this. This childhood sweetheart ends all her delusions by killing her husband and, to add insult to injury, "claims" her as his own. Harbouring resentment, she has no option but to acquiesce to his demand, the HE she no longer knows, the HE she loathes for what he has become. The HE is Daenn, the king, and no longer her childhood sweetheart, he's now he husband. Taking matter into her own hands, trying to find a way out of what she deems an untenable situation, Emi inadvertently makes it so much worse.
Constance's characters are dream characters, they are as human as you and I. Her characters impregnate, almost osmotically, through my skin, sinking deep within me, latching on and I don't want to expel them. I love the resilience of her FMC'S, even though they're faliable, flawed, quick to assume, many a time stubborn, they don't give in, they fight with whatever means they have for what they believe is right. Emi is a perfect example, she was torn away from all she knows and into a political marriage. A marriage so vile, a marriage to a verbally abusive man, a marriage where she's isolated and alone. Even then she manages to keeps her psychi intact. When Daenn shows up, and does as he did, all the rumours Emi had heard about him take residence in her head. Watching conflicting thoughts whip through her is a reader's delight, human thoughts, human feelings remember? And seeing this eddy slowly calm, when realisation takes over from supposition, well blow me down awesome! I'm not ashamed to say I had tears sprouting a few times, how's this for gutwrenching,
"I may deny it to him but I cannot deny it to myself. I don't want to lose Daenn again" and"The truth seared me, burning through every lie I told myself"
Deann has erected a wall around him, no... he's encased himself with an impregnable wall, allowing no emotion to escape. "Sometimes we must do heavy, hard things to protect those under our care" but my favourite quote, which brought tears to my eyes from the intensity of his feelings and what he had endured, what he'd been forced to go through, is this, "I needed you for your magic, but I wanted you for you, just as I always have" I absolutely adored this stoic man, I felt his inner turmoil, I shared his fear of hurting those he loved and I applauded him on his restraint, his willingness to do the unthinkable. These 2 beauties, Emi and Daenn, took me on an unparalleled journey of hope and ultimate love in true Constance fashion.
There's a distinct Midas Touch and Sleeping Beauty thread, albeit nothing like either of the original, it still has shreds of both filtering through this fast paced emotional read. There's the angst and fear of touch, there's the unintended sleep and there's the unravelling of the why and how to overcome it. Because Emi is a resolute, determined "humanlike" character, she is smart and looks for a way round this all. And because Daenn is just as "human" as she is, he is resigned to whatever happens, as long as he never hurts anyone again. If I say I loved it, if I say it was a majestic magnetic, read, it cannot convey the true excellence that this story is. It does, however, leave me with a burning need for more of these incredibly adroit characters, it does leave me begging for more.
In the notes at the beginning of the book, Constance states "May it speak to your heart and inspire, encourage and entertain you" And boy did it ever! Oh dear heavens, it did churn my emotions, the current taking me downstream, me flailings about and desperate for breath. It spoke to me on an intimate level, writhing into my psychi, it DID inspired me to remember not everything is as it seems at face value, it DID encouraged me to know there always is a solution, no matter how hopeless it might seem, and it sure as the stars DID entertain me! In true Constance style, I was already absorbing the feels she so generously splashed out from the very first page, I was finding it impossible to tear my eyes off the pages. I'm still reeling in emotions, I'm not sure how to pen my thoughts...but let me start with an outline.
Emi would have done anything to be free of her violent, drunk, abusive husband. Anything to go home. Anything to be with her childhood sweetheart. But not like this. This childhood sweetheart ends all her delusions by killing her husband and, to add insult to injury, "claims" her as his own. Harbouring resentment, she has no option but to acquiesce to his demand, the HE she no longer knows, the HE she loathes for what he has become. The HE is Daenn, the king, and no longer her childhood sweetheart, he's now he husband. Taking matter into her own hands, trying to find a way out of what she deems an untenable situation, Emi inadvertently makes it so much worse.
Constance's characters are dream characters, they are as human as you and I. Her characters impregnate, almost osmotically, through my skin, sinking deep within me, latching on and I don't want to expel them. I love the resilience of her FMC'S, even though they're faliable, flawed, quick to assume, many a time stubborn, they don't give in, they fight with whatever means they have for what they believe is right. Emi is a perfect example, she was torn away from all she knows and into a political marriage. A marriage so vile, a marriage to a verbally abusive man, a marriage where she's isolated and alone. Even then she manages to keeps her psychi intact. When Daenn shows up, and does as he did, all the rumours Emi had heard about him take residence in her head. Watching conflicting thoughts whip through her is a reader's delight, human thoughts, human feelings remember? And seeing this eddy slowly calm, when realisation takes over from supposition, well blow me down awesome! I'm not ashamed to say I had tears sprouting a few times, how's this for gutwrenching,
"I may deny it to him but I cannot deny it to myself. I don't want to lose Daenn again" and"The truth seared me, burning through every lie I told myself"
Deann has erected a wall around him, no... he's encased himself with an impregnable wall, allowing no emotion to escape. "Sometimes we must do heavy, hard things to protect those under our care" but my favourite quote, which brought tears to my eyes from the intensity of his feelings and what he had endured, what he'd been forced to go through, is this, "I needed you for your magic, but I wanted you for you, just as I always have" I absolutely adored this stoic man, I felt his inner turmoil, I shared his fear of hurting those he loved and I applauded him on his restraint, his willingness to do the unthinkable. These 2 beauties, Emi and Daenn, took me on an unparalleled journey of hope and ultimate love in true Constance fashion.
There's a distinct Midas Touch and Sleeping Beauty thread, albeit nothing like either of the original, it still has shreds of both filtering through this fast paced emotional read. There's the angst and fear of touch, there's the unintended sleep and there's the unravelling of the why and how to overcome it. Because Emi is a resolute, determined "humanlike" character, she is smart and looks for a way round this all. And because Daenn is just as "human" as she is, he is resigned to whatever happens, as long as he never hurts anyone again. If I say I loved it, if I say it was a majestic magnetic, read, it cannot convey the true excellence that this story is. It does, however, leave me with a burning need for more of these incredibly adroit characters, it does leave me begging for more.
March 30, 2025
Stuck in a loveless arranged marriage, Emana is both relieved and terrified when Deann kills her husband and whisks her home to another “arranged” marriage with him. Deann’s magic has become uncontrollable since Emana left and he needs her magic to temper his. But after Emana tries to mess with the magic without understanding what she was doing, she has made things much worse. Now they must make a perilous journey to retrieve a magical item to help separate Daenn from his magic.
Emana is a young woman who has had her dreams crushed after her marriage for alliance. Her husband was a tyrant and everyone feared him. But she never lost who she was even while being hidden away. And even though she’s heard the rumors of Daenn being a murderous tyrant she has a hard time believing it, even after he seemingly kidnaps her. But she does not act like a damsel in distress. Even though she makes a poor decision, she strives to fix it and help Daenn even though she doesn’t know what to think of him.
Daenn is a regretful King who really only wants what is best for his clan. He would even let Emana think he’s evil if it will save his clan from his powers of death. He’s determined to save them all, including Emana, even if it kills him.
There is a lot of action and adventure in this book. There are gryphon riders, treks through a jungle and battles with other clans. There were moments in this book where I went through thinking I knew what was going to happen and wanting to put the book down only to pick it right back up bc I had to know what would actually happen.
There are some deep emotional parts of this book. You absolutely feel what Emana feels as she recounts her past with Toloman. And the way she discovers her rekindled feelings for Daenn is brilliant. The way this author works around sensitive topics is also brilliant.
I highly recommend this book even if you don’t pick up the rest of this multi-author series. (Although I recommend picking up the rest of the series as well!)
Emana is a young woman who has had her dreams crushed after her marriage for alliance. Her husband was a tyrant and everyone feared him. But she never lost who she was even while being hidden away. And even though she’s heard the rumors of Daenn being a murderous tyrant she has a hard time believing it, even after he seemingly kidnaps her. But she does not act like a damsel in distress. Even though she makes a poor decision, she strives to fix it and help Daenn even though she doesn’t know what to think of him.
Daenn is a regretful King who really only wants what is best for his clan. He would even let Emana think he’s evil if it will save his clan from his powers of death. He’s determined to save them all, including Emana, even if it kills him.
There is a lot of action and adventure in this book. There are gryphon riders, treks through a jungle and battles with other clans. There were moments in this book where I went through thinking I knew what was going to happen and wanting to put the book down only to pick it right back up bc I had to know what would actually happen.
There are some deep emotional parts of this book. You absolutely feel what Emana feels as she recounts her past with Toloman. And the way she discovers her rekindled feelings for Daenn is brilliant. The way this author works around sensitive topics is also brilliant.
I highly recommend this book even if you don’t pick up the rest of this multi-author series. (Although I recommend picking up the rest of the series as well!)
March 11, 2025
Ties of Death is one absolute whirlwind of a story! From the emotions to the creatures, from the romance to the magic this is one completely epic tale wrapped up in a cupcake sized novel. And I couldn’t have loved it anymore!
It’s been a long hard eight years with an overbearing, possessive, and abusive husband. But that doesn’t mean Emana wanted Tolomon to breath his last breath on the end of a sharpened blade. Nor did she anticipate the anger that rises within when her once former friend, now clan King, declares that she will return to the clans and become his wife. Emana is done being someone else’s possession and done dealing with hard and abrasive men.
But with hurried vows, a deadly secret, magic, and second chances Emana might just rediscover the life she had always wanted and learn that the ties that bind us are more important than the fears and death we shy from.
This was such a deep and powerful and thought provoking story that really burrowed down into my heart and soul. Lopez did an exceptional job portraying a victim of abuse and the mentality that often plagues a person in Emana’s situation. It was true and deep and emotional and even had its slightly darker moments, and yet it was also beautiful and empowering and, dare I say, even a bit cozy at times. She did just a perfect job balancing the darker aspects of the story with the cozier and sweeter moments. It is really just very lovely! And delightfully emotional for a story of its length.
Along with the depth of emotion Lopez packed this story with unique magic, a magical quest into a deadly jungle, crazy cool creatures, lots and lots sweet, swoony but clean romance, and the happiest of ever afters! This story truly came full circle which left my heart rejoicing and my soul content in the best of ways!
It’s been a long hard eight years with an overbearing, possessive, and abusive husband. But that doesn’t mean Emana wanted Tolomon to breath his last breath on the end of a sharpened blade. Nor did she anticipate the anger that rises within when her once former friend, now clan King, declares that she will return to the clans and become his wife. Emana is done being someone else’s possession and done dealing with hard and abrasive men.
But with hurried vows, a deadly secret, magic, and second chances Emana might just rediscover the life she had always wanted and learn that the ties that bind us are more important than the fears and death we shy from.
This was such a deep and powerful and thought provoking story that really burrowed down into my heart and soul. Lopez did an exceptional job portraying a victim of abuse and the mentality that often plagues a person in Emana’s situation. It was true and deep and emotional and even had its slightly darker moments, and yet it was also beautiful and empowering and, dare I say, even a bit cozy at times. She did just a perfect job balancing the darker aspects of the story with the cozier and sweeter moments. It is really just very lovely! And delightfully emotional for a story of its length.
Along with the depth of emotion Lopez packed this story with unique magic, a magical quest into a deadly jungle, crazy cool creatures, lots and lots sweet, swoony but clean romance, and the happiest of ever afters! This story truly came full circle which left my heart rejoicing and my soul content in the best of ways!
April 7, 2025
I've seen some other reviewers say this book was too dark. I will say, I was quite impressed with the amount of monsters and tension but the overarching theme of Hope actually helped this book be way less darker than I expected from a book titled Ties of DEATH.
The opening and closing lines referencing the different stages of Emana's life really sucked me in and stuck with me. I really felt that the characters grew and changed, overcoming the past to form a better future. I could feel their heartbreak and betrayal, the understanding and forgiveness, and the ultimate trust they had to put in each other while love had to conquer so much in their lives and their hearts. Also, while the miscommunication (or lack of communication as I like to say) trope is strong in this story, I felt that it worked really well and fit perfectly even though I usually loathe that trope.
I understood Emana far better than I want to with her insecurities and doubt of herself, put there by her life circumstances and abusive partner. It's sad to see how much she struggles originally with her friendships and this man she loved as a more innocent person. However, when she finally feels confident she is a true warrior woman and I loved watching her change into such a strong character.
Daenn. Oh dear Daenn. His love ripped from him before he could do anything else. Now he is trying to save his people and has to retrieve his former love to find that she wants nothing to do with him and is rather mean. His people are dying and he believes Emana can help him save them but he also believes he doesn't deserve love or affection.
By the ending, both characters grow so much and especially grow together in their love and understanding, it's so perfectly swoony and sweet. I honestly adore this book, definitely going to be a favorite read of 2025!
The opening and closing lines referencing the different stages of Emana's life really sucked me in and stuck with me. I really felt that the characters grew and changed, overcoming the past to form a better future. I could feel their heartbreak and betrayal, the understanding and forgiveness, and the ultimate trust they had to put in each other while love had to conquer so much in their lives and their hearts. Also, while the miscommunication (or lack of communication as I like to say) trope is strong in this story, I felt that it worked really well and fit perfectly even though I usually loathe that trope.
I understood Emana far better than I want to with her insecurities and doubt of herself, put there by her life circumstances and abusive partner. It's sad to see how much she struggles originally with her friendships and this man she loved as a more innocent person. However, when she finally feels confident she is a true warrior woman and I loved watching her change into such a strong character.
Daenn. Oh dear Daenn. His love ripped from him before he could do anything else. Now he is trying to save his people and has to retrieve his former love to find that she wants nothing to do with him and is rather mean. His people are dying and he believes Emana can help him save them but he also believes he doesn't deserve love or affection.
By the ending, both characters grow so much and especially grow together in their love and understanding, it's so perfectly swoony and sweet. I honestly adore this book, definitely going to be a favorite read of 2025!
April 8, 2025
Emana's world changed without her permission, again. Outside her front door is her childhood best friend and he just murdered her husband. She isn’t even that upset that he is dead. But when Daenn demands she become his new bride her relief is turned into revulsion for she is treated like a thing. Again. Figuring the rumors of his tyranny must be true if this is how he treats her she is determined to belong to no one. He explains that he and the clan need her magic for his is causing havoc at home without her. Desperate to be herself again, she figures if his magic is the reason there are problem then maybe he needs his magic gone. But tampering with their marriage bond caused unforeseen problems that need immediate intervention. As they travel for what is needed, she discovers that the tyrant personality was an act and her friend is still there. And if he is still there, does she truly want to lose him in her fight for herself.
What an emotional rollercoaster of a story. I feel Emana’s story is one of grief for she is grieving the life she was forced to give up, the life she found herself in, and the guilt of being free of an abusive relationship. Yes, actions were done in rebellion of what Daenn put her through but also because she was grieving what happened to her. The flashbacks we get of her treatment with her ‘husband’ and the cultural differences she faced while adapting are important to understand her character and makes you wonder why the king even agreed to such an alliance in the first place. Seeing Daenn’s actions, for we only get one chapter in his POV, makes you wonder what he went through to be so isolated and guarded like he was and what he was told about her over the years. The ending was worth the journey and I can only hope to see more of these two, whether it is their own stories or we see glimpses, again.
What an emotional rollercoaster of a story. I feel Emana’s story is one of grief for she is grieving the life she was forced to give up, the life she found herself in, and the guilt of being free of an abusive relationship. Yes, actions were done in rebellion of what Daenn put her through but also because she was grieving what happened to her. The flashbacks we get of her treatment with her ‘husband’ and the cultural differences she faced while adapting are important to understand her character and makes you wonder why the king even agreed to such an alliance in the first place. Seeing Daenn’s actions, for we only get one chapter in his POV, makes you wonder what he went through to be so isolated and guarded like he was and what he was told about her over the years. The ending was worth the journey and I can only hope to see more of these two, whether it is their own stories or we see glimpses, again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews