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Once upon a time, it all started here …

Sacrifice is the price we pay for peace in our village.

Wisteria de Avalonia hates this mantra and everything it stands for. Her father was sacrificed to the dragon that terrorized her village when she was seven years old.

Now, as the village braces for the next sacrifice, Wisteria is gripped by terror—not only for herself but also for her beloved mother. She harbors a dangerous secret. She possesses powers both awe-inspiring and fearsome—powers that could destroy everything she holds dear.

When the unthinkable happens, Wisteria is thrust into a world of betrayal and magic, where the line between good and evil becomes increasingly blurred, and the power she harbors threatens to consume her.

The stakes get higher when she falls in love with a prince whose twin brother is determined to have her at all costs.

Accustomed to being bested by his barely older twin on the battlefield, fair-haired Aalexander with his bookish inclination and patrician features wonders if he has what it takes to be king.

He just might with the help of Wisteria whose violet eyes and raven-colored hair become the substance of his dreams.

Battle lines will be drawn.

Love will be tested to the limit as two brothers vie for the crown and the allegiance of one woman.

In the end, there can only be one king …

359 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 7, 2025

75 people are currently reading
1868 people want to read

About the author

J.L. Youngblood

3 books20 followers

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5 stars
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17 (28%)
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6 (10%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
203 reviews
January 1, 2025
For me this is a 4.5 star book. It was a bit dark in the beginning, but improved over time. I read this series many years ago when it was first published and before “Bonded” was even a thought. “Bonded” is a wonderful addition to “The Grimm Laws” and well worth the read.

Thank you Jennifer for allowing me to be an advanced reader!
905 reviews11 followers
January 7, 2025
This was a fascinating clean fantasy fairytale style book! I loved how the 2 main characters tried to do what was right, and how they supported each other throughout the story! The main character does have some growing up to do, she needs more self control, and knows that she is vain, but it added to her relatability at the same time. This story ended in a cliff hanger, but I definitely want to find out what happens next, and how all the stories fit together!
Profile Image for Denise .
829 reviews9 followers
January 2, 2025
A captivating read! J. L. Youngblood has penned a story that captures your attention, pulls you into the story and immerses you into the world she has created. There are great characters, a love story, betrayal, magic, suspense, a quest, the struggle between good and evil and dragons. If you enjoy fantasy blended with romance and plenty of action and adventure, you’re sure to find so much to like in this story. This is a thoroughly enjoyable introduction to the Grimm Laws series!
Profile Image for Delphia  Von Heeder .
1,754 reviews54 followers
December 30, 2024
Bonded is book 1 in the Grimm Laws Series by JL Youngblood. The book is written in 2 parts, The first is Wisteria at 17 waiting for the decision of who will be sacrificed to the dragon. The second is 2 years later and Wisteria is singing with a family. I enjoyed this fantasy as well as the triangle between Wisteria and both Princes. I thought the story fast paced and an excellent book. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
123 reviews3 followers
January 7, 2025
This isn’t the genre I usually read, but I enjoy Jennifer Youngblood’s books so I thought I would give it a try. I flew through the book in less than a day. There were many twists and turns to the story as it went along. It was an enjoyable read that kept me interested and cheering on the main characters.
Profile Image for Rhonda Cooper.
279 reviews8 followers
December 22, 2024
Having read previous books by the author, I was willing to try a new genre:fantasy. Enjoyed seeing various themes set in a new context. Twists and turns in so many ways. Great read
Profile Image for Bonnie Blackledge.
430 reviews28 followers
January 9, 2025
I usually don’t read fantasy books, especially when they involve dragons and magic. I decided to read Bonded and it grabbed me from the very beginning. Wisteria lives in a village where there is a yearly sacrifice of a resident to a dragon. Her father was the first victim when she was only 7 years old, and now it’s time for the village leaders to choose another.
The story begins when Wisteria visits the old crone in the woods to get medicine for her mother’s patient. On the way, she is attacked by large spiders and uses her hidden magic skills to kill them. This incident is the beginning of many changes in Wisteria’s life. It was so hard to put this book down as one event led to another before the climax at the end.
I have previously read some of Jennifer Youngblood’s books and have enjoyed them, but this is the first fantasy I read. Now I am addicted to the series and can’t wait to start the next one. Youngblood has put her spell on me!
Profile Image for Bonny Rambarran.
1,521 reviews21 followers
January 19, 2025
They live in a village where a dragon kills someone every summer solstice - - -
Her father volunteered one year . . . and her mother the next year. But he always comes back. . . the Headman of the village would never volunteer!!! There was a woman who practised magic . . .and she wants to learn so that she can defeat the dragon. . . this is a superb story that you can’t put down until the end!!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
373 reviews8 followers
January 12, 2025
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am reviewing it voluntarily

Wow this was awesome!

Simply loved it

Characters were so well described

The tale from beginning to end full of twists betrayal loss and love and magic

I loved the idea of deceased relatives communicating through dreams quite comforting

The old crone was quite sad really

What families will do for power twin brother even

I loved the fae in the woods how utterly magnificent and magical

So much in this book hard to sum it up

I want to know what happens next?

Brilliant up till 2 am had to finish it!
Profile Image for Julie Carpenter.
1,918 reviews241 followers
January 12, 2025
I love a good fantasy book and loved reading the other books in The Grimm Laws series. Originally the next books in the series were released before this book. I was super excited when the author announced that she had written this book to give us some backstory into Wisteria and Aalexander!!! Happy dance!!! I dove right in and loved the ride that it took me on! There's adventure, dragons, magic, family, betrayal, friendship, heartache, royals, and love.

It's been a few years since I read the other books in this series but I loved the world building and characters so much that I have thought about it quite a bit, wondering and patiently waiting for when the author would write more. The wait was well worth it! The other books' stories came back to my mind and now I want to go and read them again! I can't wait to see what else this author has in store for us in this series!!!

Wisteria gives up a lot-some by choice but most not by choice. She is a strong and resilient character. Aalexander is a character that will have you cheering for him and standing up for himself. These two together are magical! I loved them!

Content: Magic, witches/wizards, dragons, fantasy elements, sword fighting, death, betrayal and much more. I would consider this a clean read and would let my teenagers read it.

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!
Profile Image for Laura Miller.
Author 3 books46 followers
January 29, 2025
I do not read a lot of fantasy books but I have been in love with the Grimm Laws series since I read Forgotten a couple years ago. It was one I quickly added to my favorites list and recommended to others. Needless to say I was a little excited when I heard Bonded was coming out and we were getting a story for Wisteria and Aalexander.

Bonded is everything you could ask for in a good fairytale! Dragons, magic, romance, two princes, a strong heroine. I was pulled into the story so fast and didn’t want to put it down.

After Wisteria’s parents are subjected to a dragon she leaves home and tries to put her past behind her. When she meets Aalexander she is intrigued by how clever and good looking he is. Wisteria and Aalexander fall deeply in love and she is bound and determined to help him become king and make it through the Proving. Together they need to overcome Aalexander’s evil brother Ruben who is also determined to become king.

This story was fast paced and kept me engaged from beginning to end. I love how Aalexander and Wisteria supported each other. They are good, going up against everything and everyone else. I was cheering for them both the entire time. Wisteria's past certainly helped make her the strong person she is and a perfect companion for Aalexander. I also loved how genuine and gentle Aalexander was. He was just what Wisteria needed in her life.

If you love a good fairytale or even if you are new to the genre I would highly recommend this. I myself plan to read Forgotten again and jump into Remembered after that.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you Jennifer Youngblood. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
387 reviews4 followers
January 9, 2025
Is a sweet opposites attract, close proximity fantasy romance with a touch of mystery, suspense and magic.
Some of the lines I really like ---- Experience had taught Wisteria all too well that life was cruel and very unfair, for it was often the defenseless who suffered the most. ---- Life was cruel and barbaric. No longer would she allow herself to be a pawn. --- -- “Think of it as a basic code of conduct. It prompts the citizens to rise up and become better versions of themselves.” --- “Perhaps you should learn to accept the person Rowena is rather than trying to make her into something that she is not.” --- “She must exercise her free will to choose.” ----- “You have the heart of a warrior. And the face of an angel.” --- The time is now for you to stand up. --- “Even the brave feel fear, Aalexander. ‘Tis a true mark of nobility to act in spite of the fear.” ---
What is the Old Crone up to? What is Constance up to? What's Ruben up to? Who is Adele? Most questions will be answered.
I loved Wisteria and Aalexander's story and I'm sure you will too. I'm not a fan of fantasy, but I was pulled into the story from the beginning and was sorry the story ended. I will definitely be reading "Forgotten" to find out what happens.
Profile Image for Megan | Reads Alotl Books.
337 reviews9 followers
January 14, 2025
Oh my goodness, I’ve read almost all of Jennifer Youngblood’s novels, but I’d never jumped into her YA and fantasy novels. This book had me hooked from the beginning. There is so much going on in Wisteria’s life and it sucks you in.

Wisteria has lost her father to the dragon, is hiding her magic and helping her mother as a midwife. When tragedy strikes again, she flees and makes a new life for herself as a minsteral in a new kingdom. There she captures the attention of a boy, Aalexander, who turns out to be a prince. The moment they meet, they feel bonded together. Together they have to thwart the evil, friends, the old crone and other dangers to be together. When Wisteria pushes her brother Ruben to become the Crown Prince, Aalexander and Ruben are sent off on an adventure to find the truth to become king, Wisteria knows that she has to help Alexander with her magic.

So what will happen to the two of them? I love that Aalexander is so genuine and cares for his kingdom and people. Wisteria has had so much tragedy in her life, but she still wants to trust and care for others.This was a truly wonderful book and I can’t wait to continue the series. Talk about a cliffhanger... This is an absolutely clean and fantastical ya romantasy.

I received an advanced copy for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Beth.
162 reviews2 followers
March 14, 2025
I won this in a Goodreads giveaway
My review has spoilers

I thought Bonded had an interesting plot, but the story was all over the place. The overuse of "old words" felt out of place next to modern words. The repetition of "twas, twill, nay, etc," took me out of the story. It felt forced and not natural.

The story itself made little sense. Wisteria has powers and is in secret training with an old crone, but no one can know, or she will be found out as a witch. Her mother is a healer and is sacrificed to a dragon in her daughter's place. Why? It is never brought up again in the book! Besides the fact that her father was also killed by the same dragon years ago. What was the point?

2 years later, Wisteria has a new family she's living with. She sings and is happy. Her friend is excited to meet the twin princes who are coming to town. One is predictably "bad," and the other is "good." Wisteria falls for the good twin, but he must pass trials to become king.

There is more to the story, but it felt so jumbled. Like bits of different stories were mashed together. It's too bad it sounded interesting, but I won't be continuing the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Joyce Marion.
520 reviews8 followers
December 31, 2024
Wisteria lives with her mother in Florin. Her father was sacrificed to a dragon. He had worked out a deal that the dragon would leave the town alone in exchange for an annual sacrifice. Her mother is a healer for the town. She feels that she will be safe because she is needed. She is training Wisteria to take her place one day. When a councilman out for revenge decides that her mother is to be the next sacrifice, Wisteria is devastated. Secrets come out and Wisteria flees to another village to start over.

Wisteria joins a minstrel group. She is friends with Rowena, but her mother is jealous that Wisteria overshadows her daughter. One day Wisteria meets Alexander in the forest. She does not realize that he and his twin brother are heirs to the throne. Alexander is the good brother and Ruben is the evil brother. He will stop at nothing to attain the throne and have Wisteria.

Very good book. Twists and turns. Who is a friend and who will betray her? Can't wait for the next books in the Grimm Law series.
4 reviews
January 3, 2025
A great start to the series!

Though it was the third book written, Bonded is the prequel to the Grimm Laws series, and starts before the characters in the rest of the books were born. I really liked this addition to the series and thought that it did a great job of adding extra context behind the characters you meet in the rest of series while also adding more world building and adventure. In addition, it definitely made me root for Alexander and Wisteria more since I understood all that they went through to be with each other. I also like how, though they are not the main characters in the rest of the series, this is definitely not the end of their story!

The beginning started off a little dark, but I liked how good will prevail in the end and how the characters grow and change throughout the series. This book is a clean romance and is the best book to start off with in the series. I am so excited that Jennifer Youngblood is finishing this series, and I cannot wait to see what awaits for the rest of our characters in the next book!
16 reviews1 follower
January 8, 2025
"Forgotten" and "Remembered" are two of my favorite books, so I was really excited when this one came out. It was even better than I expected.

Wisteria is a complicated character with uncommon circumstances and difficulties. Learning her history brought a new perspective to her actions in the other books, and I'm eager to read them again. Her love story is unique and so fitting for a fairy tale. I appreciate that the author was able to capture the depth of her love so beautifully without any bedroom scenes.

This book is full of surprises and adventure, and I loved every minute of reading it. The story will appeal to a variety of readers, regardless of their favorite genres. I highly recommend it.
1,149 reviews6 followers
January 1, 2025
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. It had me captivated from the beginning and I didn’t want to put it down. In this fantasy book Wisteria must watch her parents be destroyed by a dragon, after which she leaves that town and 2 years later, she sings with a minstrel group. One day in the forest she meets a man and doesn’t realize it is the prince. Aalexander and Wisteria have an instant bond, a strong connection. She then finds out that he is a twin to Ruben, and Ruben thinks he should get her, but he is not a good man. There were so many twists and turns, and surprises that make this a fantastic must read fantasy story.
Profile Image for MJ Lockey.
18 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2025
While I don’t usually read books in this genre, I enjoy Jennifer Youngblood’s books so I decided to give this one a try. I enjoyed reading this fantasy romance story set in the distant past that reminds the reader of medieval times. It is a story of tragedy, perseverance and good versus evil that can be enjoyed by readers in their teens and adults alike. I look forward to reading the rest of Wisteria and Aalexander’s story in this series.
12 reviews
January 2, 2025
If you’re not typically into Science Fiction or Fantasy, Bonded might just change your mind. Youngblood masterfully blends rich, emotional depth with a world of magic, forests, and mythical creatures. The characters, especially Wisteria and Aalexander, are compelling as they navigate mighty challenges and heartfelt romance. This was my first dive into the series, but it definitely won’t be my last! Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Tami Willard.
2,453 reviews15 followers
January 4, 2025
Clean Romantic Fantasy Series

This is the first book in the series. Her life has been full of tragedy. Falling for the stranger in the woods will lead them along a path full of danger and betrayal. Just when things start to look like they are going to win another twist is thrown in. Will they be able to find their own HEA and save the kingdom?

I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.
22 reviews
December 28, 2024
I couldn't put this book down! If you are looking for mystery, action, suspence, farytale, clean romance and more...this book is for you! Great character development and bonds made this book an excellent kickoff to the Grimm Law serirs. I cannot wait to see how the story unfolds in the other books in this collection.
98 reviews
January 7, 2025
If you are into fantasy - faes, magic, etc., this is a must read. The love story is pretty special as well, For me the best part is watching Wisteria come into her magic and fighting the evil that tries to overtake her good. She is strong in spirit and strives to overcome the dark side that she could let consume her. Does she succeed?

This book is worth the read.

Enjoy! 😉
1,841 reviews12 followers
January 8, 2025
I am so glad Ms. Youngblood is back to writing this series. I read Book 2 Forgiven before this one. It is very important to read them in order. This story tells how Wisteria became the person she is. Ms Youngblood has quite the imagination. I need to reread Book 2 so I can move on to #3. I was given a copy of this book. I chose to write this review.
2,061 reviews6 followers
February 3, 2025
I've been a reader of Jennifer Youngblood's for years, but this is the first fairytale fantasy from her. It's a wonderful start to the series the only thing I didn't like about it, it ends on a cliffhanger. I already got the next few books of the series!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
2,279 reviews12 followers
March 4, 2025
Bonded

Magic, dragons, and incantations are not really my cup of tea but Ms Youngblood weaves a really good tale of a young girl with magical abilities. The two men who pursue her are the Princes of the kingdom. One Prince is evil personified while the other Princess is knowledgeable and full of compassion and kindness. Will one of them be able to win her hand?
Profile Image for Kara.
248 reviews
June 8, 2025
DNF - it was just not working for me. It had some potential, but rushed along and didn't develop very much at all. I made it halfway through but the characters were kind of ridiculous and it felt written for a young audience, probably preteen. The insta-love was silly, especially how they went from strangers to ride-or-die-for-each-other so quickly.
Profile Image for Julie.
799 reviews6 followers
January 1, 2025
This book is full of twists and turns, good and evil, love and betrayal. This is a roller coaster of a read with complex characters. I thoroughly enjoyed it from beginning to end. I will say it ends on a cliffhanger so be ready to get the next one in the series.
36 reviews1 follower
January 7, 2025
Book 1 of a 3 books so far series with magic dragons romance a cloke of invisibility!! All the good stuff!! Bonded starts off Wisteria and Aalexanders meet cute in the forest dive into this magical world and you will not be disappointed!!
161 reviews1 follower
January 14, 2025
Loved this story and am excited to continue reading the rest. The characters were flawed and seemed real. The struggle with good events and hard events interspaced kept me intrigued. Thanks for the start of a great read.
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