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Twice Bound
It's been months since my breakup. I've healed. Grown. Maybe it will be enough? Now, however, I have to see her again at a Christmas party - a party I don't want to attend. But I don't have a choice when my ex is my best friend's sister. And my presence has been demanded to run interference. It's a good thing I found a date to bring.
Bad thing?
This situationship is turning into more than I bargained for with each time they smile. Or wink. God and when they speak? Maybe this isn't such a bad thing if I can keep my hands to myself long enough, to get through the evening.
Lex has two her ex and the party they are both about to attend. If not for the first problem, the second would be fine. However, her presence is mandatory, and with this party looming, she doesn't want to show up alone.
However, finding a date had become impossible, and she'd given up on it. So, she wasn't prepared to literally run into one of those romance Christmas movie women at the store. Maybe there was hope for her yet.
Clíodhna came with calm confidence and a foreign air about them that drew and enticed. By the time Lex untied her thoughts long enough to ask if Clíodhna would join her tonight, they had already gone too far not to be addicted.
One hour. They only had to be at the party for an hour, then Lex could steal Clíodhna away and use the rest of the night to explore what they both enjoy.
The only problem is that Clíodhna comes with more than Lex ever bargained for. But maybe not more than she can handle? Because Clíodhna prefers to share with their best friend. Róisín.
Bad thing?
This situationship is turning into more than I bargained for with each time they smile. Or wink. God and when they speak? Maybe this isn't such a bad thing if I can keep my hands to myself long enough, to get through the evening.
Lex has two her ex and the party they are both about to attend. If not for the first problem, the second would be fine. However, her presence is mandatory, and with this party looming, she doesn't want to show up alone.
However, finding a date had become impossible, and she'd given up on it. So, she wasn't prepared to literally run into one of those romance Christmas movie women at the store. Maybe there was hope for her yet.
Clíodhna came with calm confidence and a foreign air about them that drew and enticed. By the time Lex untied her thoughts long enough to ask if Clíodhna would join her tonight, they had already gone too far not to be addicted.
One hour. They only had to be at the party for an hour, then Lex could steal Clíodhna away and use the rest of the night to explore what they both enjoy.
The only problem is that Clíodhna comes with more than Lex ever bargained for. But maybe not more than she can handle? Because Clíodhna prefers to share with their best friend. Róisín.
- GenresRomance
377 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2025
17 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
February 2, 2025
I recently had the pleasure of reading Twice Bound as an advance review copy (ARC), and I'm so excited to share my thoughts! The author provided trigger warnings, which I encourage you to check before reading, as certain themes might be sensitive to some readers.
However, putting those aside, this book absolutely captivated me. It's a remarkable addition to the sapphic romance genre, especially given its unique "why choose" element, something I've personally found lacking. I found myself completely engrossed, snatching every spare moment to delve deeper into the story.
What truly stood out was the exceptional character development and the incredible dynamics between them. The communication between the characters felt incredibly realistic and refreshing. Unlike many books where misunderstandings fester into major conflicts, this story tackles issues head-on. Most conflicts arise from external sources, which creates a sense of shared struggle and strengthens the bonds between the characters.
If you appreciate well-developed relationships, a satisfying happily-ever-after (HEA), and stories that explore consensual BDSM themes within a supportive and loving environment, this book is a must-read. The found family aspect also adds a beautiful layer of warmth and connection. I highly recommend giving Twice Bound a chance – you won’t be disappointed!
However, putting those aside, this book absolutely captivated me. It's a remarkable addition to the sapphic romance genre, especially given its unique "why choose" element, something I've personally found lacking. I found myself completely engrossed, snatching every spare moment to delve deeper into the story.
What truly stood out was the exceptional character development and the incredible dynamics between them. The communication between the characters felt incredibly realistic and refreshing. Unlike many books where misunderstandings fester into major conflicts, this story tackles issues head-on. Most conflicts arise from external sources, which creates a sense of shared struggle and strengthens the bonds between the characters.
If you appreciate well-developed relationships, a satisfying happily-ever-after (HEA), and stories that explore consensual BDSM themes within a supportive and loving environment, this book is a must-read. The found family aspect also adds a beautiful layer of warmth and connection. I highly recommend giving Twice Bound a chance – you won’t be disappointed!
February 3, 2025
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐.5 / 5 (rounded up)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ / 5
This contemporary sapphic romance starts with a convenience store meet cute and ends in a BDSM club. One might expect it to be more smut than plot with such a closing, but Twice Bound is plot-rich with delightfully human characters.
I found tons of potential in this story, and the spice (when it happened) was spicing. There’s a sweetness and relatability to our three leads (whose POVs are all represented throughout) and how they interact with each other. An interesting cast of side characters make minor appearances and keep things moving.
I appreciated the chronic illness representation, as well—it didn’t steal the show or direct the plot, but it was present, acknowledged, and cared for in a believable way. This was the same for gender representation, with a non-binary lead with they/them pronouns (we love to see it).
This book is spicy, but mildly so, with BDSM themes. There’s only a couple of full scenes, and a healthy, consensual BDSM lifestyle is portrayed (though past trauma is referenced).
Overall, I loved reading about how three independent and flawed people came together. I was cheering for them and their individual vulnerabilities throughout.
Where this fell short for me, unfortunately, was in pacing of the non-romance plot elements and editing/proofing. We spend a lot of time in court and the hospital, or with the leads separated. A few scenes that happen off page with them together would’ve been great for the reader to experience, to bring us more fully into the romance. I found myself a bit tired of the external plot by the end, particularly as it felt predictable (and I struggled to suspend disbelief in parts).
There’s so much potential with the love story between these characters! I so badly wanted more of it—of them. I look forward to future works from Sahara Lane and will definitely be picking up the next release.
📚 Fast facts📚
✨ Multi POV
✨ First person
✨ Past tense
✨ Sapphic
✨ Poly
✨ Single mom
✨ Chronic illness rep
✨ Open door spice
✨ Healthy, consensual BDSM
✨ Content warnings for violence, threats, immigration issues (incl. deportation)
I am grateful to have received an ARC of this story, and this is my honest review.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ / 5
This contemporary sapphic romance starts with a convenience store meet cute and ends in a BDSM club. One might expect it to be more smut than plot with such a closing, but Twice Bound is plot-rich with delightfully human characters.
I found tons of potential in this story, and the spice (when it happened) was spicing. There’s a sweetness and relatability to our three leads (whose POVs are all represented throughout) and how they interact with each other. An interesting cast of side characters make minor appearances and keep things moving.
I appreciated the chronic illness representation, as well—it didn’t steal the show or direct the plot, but it was present, acknowledged, and cared for in a believable way. This was the same for gender representation, with a non-binary lead with they/them pronouns (we love to see it).
This book is spicy, but mildly so, with BDSM themes. There’s only a couple of full scenes, and a healthy, consensual BDSM lifestyle is portrayed (though past trauma is referenced).
Overall, I loved reading about how three independent and flawed people came together. I was cheering for them and their individual vulnerabilities throughout.
Where this fell short for me, unfortunately, was in pacing of the non-romance plot elements and editing/proofing. We spend a lot of time in court and the hospital, or with the leads separated. A few scenes that happen off page with them together would’ve been great for the reader to experience, to bring us more fully into the romance. I found myself a bit tired of the external plot by the end, particularly as it felt predictable (and I struggled to suspend disbelief in parts).
There’s so much potential with the love story between these characters! I so badly wanted more of it—of them. I look forward to future works from Sahara Lane and will definitely be picking up the next release.
📚 Fast facts📚
✨ Multi POV
✨ First person
✨ Past tense
✨ Sapphic
✨ Poly
✨ Single mom
✨ Chronic illness rep
✨ Open door spice
✨ Healthy, consensual BDSM
✨ Content warnings for violence, threats, immigration issues (incl. deportation)
I am grateful to have received an ARC of this story, and this is my honest review.
May 8, 2025
Sahara Lane has provided readers with a richly layered and emotionally resonant novel that delves deep into themes of self-discovery, identity, and healing through love and connection. At its core, this is a story about a woman navigating grief, personal growth, and the complex journey of finding safety and trust in relationships—both with others and with herself.
The book’s sapphic, polyamorous romance is portrayed with nuance and authenticity, presenting characters whose emotional depth and vulnerability create a beautifully inclusive and affirming narrative. The relationships are built on mutual respect, enthusiastic consent, and emotional intimacy, offering a refreshing and responsible portrayal of consensual BDSM. The author handles these dynamics with sensitivity, making space for open communication and healing within the context of pleasure and control.
Loss and grief are central to the story, with the protagonist working through the echoes of death and trauma while trying to balance her responsibilities as a single parent. Her journey is shadowed by a haunting presence—literal and metaphorical—as stalking and personal danger add an undercurrent of tension. These elements are handled with care, contributing to the character's emotional arc without sensationalizing her pain.
One of the novel’s strengths is its thoughtful inclusion of trigger warnings. These are prominently provided and should absolutely be read beforehand. Sahara does not shy away from dark or intense themes, and for some readers, the content may be challenging. The warnings are a sign of care and respect, and I encourage all potential readers to check them thoroughly before diving in.
Twice Bound is not just a romance—it’s a story of reclamation, choice, and the messy, beautiful ways people can connect and heal. Fans of queer fiction, character-driven narratives, and kink-aware storytelling will find much to admire here.
Highly recommended—with care.
The book’s sapphic, polyamorous romance is portrayed with nuance and authenticity, presenting characters whose emotional depth and vulnerability create a beautifully inclusive and affirming narrative. The relationships are built on mutual respect, enthusiastic consent, and emotional intimacy, offering a refreshing and responsible portrayal of consensual BDSM. The author handles these dynamics with sensitivity, making space for open communication and healing within the context of pleasure and control.
Loss and grief are central to the story, with the protagonist working through the echoes of death and trauma while trying to balance her responsibilities as a single parent. Her journey is shadowed by a haunting presence—literal and metaphorical—as stalking and personal danger add an undercurrent of tension. These elements are handled with care, contributing to the character's emotional arc without sensationalizing her pain.
One of the novel’s strengths is its thoughtful inclusion of trigger warnings. These are prominently provided and should absolutely be read beforehand. Sahara does not shy away from dark or intense themes, and for some readers, the content may be challenging. The warnings are a sign of care and respect, and I encourage all potential readers to check them thoroughly before diving in.
Twice Bound is not just a romance—it’s a story of reclamation, choice, and the messy, beautiful ways people can connect and heal. Fans of queer fiction, character-driven narratives, and kink-aware storytelling will find much to admire here.
Highly recommended—with care.
March 4, 2025
Emotional Rollercoaster!
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ out of 5
Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ out of 5
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 out of 5
This story has -
➡️ A healthy and positive poly relationship
➡️ Two BIPOC main characters
➡️ Non-binary representation
➡️ Chronic illness representation
➡️ Healthy communication
➡️ SSC BD$M
➡️ Second chance love
➡️ Fastburn romance
➡️ Interracial couples
➡️ Why choose romance
What made this 5/5 stars overall for me, is the fact that Sahara Lane made her story stand out in a genre that leans too heavily on toxic relationships or purely just spice scenes that don’t push the narrative along. I believe the story strikes a balance with emotional highs and lows, heartfelt moments, and yes - the spice that offers readers a genuinely enriching experience.
The main characters are beautifully developed, flaws and all, with each one feeling relatable and real. Sahara masterfully intertwined drama and intimacy that didn’t necessarily need to rely on spice to tell the story. She gave us powerful moments of connection that displayed raw emotional vulnerability, bringing the three main characters together in a strong bond. The poly relationship is refreshing to witness, with open communication and a healthy foundation to build off of, that doesn’t feel forced or preachy.
Sahara also gives us a great representation of BD$M that’s portrayed in such a positive manner and she does it with grace. The dynamics are consensual, respectful, and handled with nuance. It's a rare and valuable depiction that doesn’t sensationalize or trivialize the BD$M culture, but instead presents it as part of a well-rounded, genuine relationship.
I highly recommend giving this a go!
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ out of 5
Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ out of 5
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 out of 5
This story has -
➡️ A healthy and positive poly relationship
➡️ Two BIPOC main characters
➡️ Non-binary representation
➡️ Chronic illness representation
➡️ Healthy communication
➡️ SSC BD$M
➡️ Second chance love
➡️ Fastburn romance
➡️ Interracial couples
➡️ Why choose romance
What made this 5/5 stars overall for me, is the fact that Sahara Lane made her story stand out in a genre that leans too heavily on toxic relationships or purely just spice scenes that don’t push the narrative along. I believe the story strikes a balance with emotional highs and lows, heartfelt moments, and yes - the spice that offers readers a genuinely enriching experience.
The main characters are beautifully developed, flaws and all, with each one feeling relatable and real. Sahara masterfully intertwined drama and intimacy that didn’t necessarily need to rely on spice to tell the story. She gave us powerful moments of connection that displayed raw emotional vulnerability, bringing the three main characters together in a strong bond. The poly relationship is refreshing to witness, with open communication and a healthy foundation to build off of, that doesn’t feel forced or preachy.
Sahara also gives us a great representation of BD$M that’s portrayed in such a positive manner and she does it with grace. The dynamics are consensual, respectful, and handled with nuance. It's a rare and valuable depiction that doesn’t sensationalize or trivialize the BD$M culture, but instead presents it as part of a well-rounded, genuine relationship.
I highly recommend giving this a go!
February 1, 2025
Alexandrea, Lex for short, is dreading going to her best friend's Christmas party. Not only does she not want to venture out into the icy coldness of the Texas winter, but her ex-girlfriend is going to be there.
But wait... the uncomfortableness does not stop there. Because Lex's ex-girlfriend is her best friend's half-sister.
Stopping at a gas station while driving to the party, Lex literally falls over the most handsome person they've ever met. With introductions made, Lex asks Clíodhna to accompany her to the party, which she agrees to.
Having survived the Christmas party, Lex and Clíodhna spend much time together, falling further and further for each other. Then, Lex discovers that Clíodhna shares everything with her best friend, Róisín. Everything, including their girlfriends.
Whilst Lex isn't opposed to threesomes, is this something she wants?
Can the three of them work in a relationship?
How will their relationship fit into their lives?
This is a hot, well-thought-out romance that's easy to read and enjoyable.
The topic of the relationship between Lex, Clíodhna, and Róisín is handled well, and the BDSM content is handled in a healthy and consensual manner.
There is plenty of drama included in this story (what WLW romance would be complete without it), but this is balanced by found family, love, and support that will make your heart grow and size.
This is an enjoyable and spicy read you'll want to check out!
*I received an advance reader copy for free, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review*
But wait... the uncomfortableness does not stop there. Because Lex's ex-girlfriend is her best friend's half-sister.
Stopping at a gas station while driving to the party, Lex literally falls over the most handsome person they've ever met. With introductions made, Lex asks Clíodhna to accompany her to the party, which she agrees to.
Having survived the Christmas party, Lex and Clíodhna spend much time together, falling further and further for each other. Then, Lex discovers that Clíodhna shares everything with her best friend, Róisín. Everything, including their girlfriends.
Whilst Lex isn't opposed to threesomes, is this something she wants?
Can the three of them work in a relationship?
How will their relationship fit into their lives?
This is a hot, well-thought-out romance that's easy to read and enjoyable.
The topic of the relationship between Lex, Clíodhna, and Róisín is handled well, and the BDSM content is handled in a healthy and consensual manner.
There is plenty of drama included in this story (what WLW romance would be complete without it), but this is balanced by found family, love, and support that will make your heart grow and size.
This is an enjoyable and spicy read you'll want to check out!
*I received an advance reader copy for free, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review*
February 11, 2025
Oh my gosh… 😍🫠🫠🫠
This book was amazing. I was hooked from the very first page and finished it in a day 🌶️😍🥵
This type of content was new to me and I loved it. I loved the character development for all the characters. The communication was on point with the characters. I have read many books where a simple discussion could’ve avoided the ‘major’ conflicts. It has its place but sometimes it’s just too much. Reading about how these characters discuss their struggles and work through them is refreshing and enjoyable.
I can’t wait to read future books from this author! 💙
This book was amazing. I was hooked from the very first page and finished it in a day 🌶️😍🥵
This type of content was new to me and I loved it. I loved the character development for all the characters. The communication was on point with the characters. I have read many books where a simple discussion could’ve avoided the ‘major’ conflicts. It has its place but sometimes it’s just too much. Reading about how these characters discuss their struggles and work through them is refreshing and enjoyable.
I can’t wait to read future books from this author! 💙
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2025
This book is a thoughtful why-choose with good rep for a variety of subjects. The characters are well-developed and interesting. The spice is definitely spicy with a touch of k!nk and it was an enjoyable read.
I'm grateful to have received an ARC of this book amd look forward to more from this author. I am freely and voluntarily posting this review.
I'm grateful to have received an ARC of this book amd look forward to more from this author. I am freely and voluntarily posting this review.
February 23, 2025
This book was great! I love the characters and the ease with which the author develops their relationships. The three main characters are all unique, and I haven't read many books with similar characters. Overall, the story was great, and I would recommend it if you like spicy sapphic romances.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews