The Dark Bond

Vampire Hunter Society #2

by Leia Stone

Everything I thought I knew was a lie.

The evil vampire spawn I'd hunted my entire life have turned out to be my only allies. Hidden away in Magic City, I've promised to help support Luka as he competes to become king.

The problem? I'm falling for him, and he's engaged to be married. To get my mind off of my boy problem, Liv and I band together with our allies to dig deeper into the betrayal of every hunter. What I find shocks me to my core.

With Luka's fiancé breathing down my neck, and hidden truths bubbling to the surface daily, it will take every skill I have to stay alive.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Vampires, Romance, Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy, Audiobook

Audible Audio

First published September 30, 2021

About the author

Leia Stone is the USA Today bestselling author of multiple bestselling series including Matefinder and Wolf Girl. She's sold over two million books and her Fallen Academy series has been optioned for film. Her novels have been translated into five languages and she even dabbles in script writing. Leia writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance with sassy kick-butt heroines and irresistible love interests. She lives in Spokane, WA with her husband and two children.


Follow her on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/leia.stone

Reviews

[Ewa · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.92/5

[Maja · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stars: ⭐ 4.0 ⭐

Main characters:
- Aspen: ❣️❣️❣️
- Luka: ❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️

POV: The story is told from Aspen's POV... And I'm very, very sad because of that.

Writing: ✍️✍️✍️ We needed Luka's POV too, especially in this book... It would be so much better and the book is to short for my liking. In some parts, where it was supposed to be "drama" or fighting scene, everything felt so rushed or like not enough emotions, especially from Aspen. Still I love you Stone 😅

Romance: Well, here we already have strong feelings and lust but in this book we have a forbidden love feels.

Chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥🔥

OW/OM drama: Yes. OW drama (wife), but kind of too mild, because we don't have Luka's POV.

Love triangle: No

Cheating: Well, technically yes. He marries another vampire, because he need to become king, but he don't cheat Aspen.

Triggers: No

Funny moments: A few

Sad moments: Hmm, not really. It had a lots of potential for that because of "forbidden love" vibes...

Favorite characters: Gang from "Wolf Girl" and LUKA 🥰

The ending: Cliffhanger

[Tassi (Read Ramble Repeat) · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you loved book one and all that it was you are going to seriously gobble this one up!! Absolutely loved the development of this plot and the characters totally all have my heart. The pace is perfect and will have you reading this in one sitting. I really enjoyed how Leia is bringing all the parts together it truly has you hooked and wanting more. I saw where it was heading in parts but duuuude that was an insane ride. So many things happened that will be like WOAH! And by that end you are just gonna be like seriously GIVE ME MORE!!!

Absolutely amazing job Leia can’t wait to read what you have in store next. Whatever it is I know I’ll be devouring it like my life depends on it.

Also guys don’t judge the review according to the fact it isn’t a ramble. Just a lot of personal stuff happening in life which has been a struggle along with health. So yeah definitely don’t think any less of the story coz of that. It truly is an amazing read!!

[Sarah P · Rating 5 out of 5]

A strong second installment that deepens the emotional tension and raises the stakes for Luka and Aspen. I’m rooting so hard for their happily ever after because if anyone deserves it, it’s Luka. He’s such a good guy (well, vampire), and his willingness to sacrifice himself so Aspen could make her own choice? Heartbreaking and noble. That moment really cemented how deeply he cares.

And Liv? She was not having it full-on “hell no, girlfriend” energy, and honestly, I respect it. But I can’t help but wonder: will Aspen resent Liv for pushing her toward that choice, even though it was for the right reasons there is so much left that needs to be done!

This series continues to deliver high-stakes romance, moral complexity, and characters you can’t help but love even when they’re making messy choices.

[BeDazzling · Rating 1 out of 5]

When I say this book was fast paced I mean it found a way to do the impossible and exceed the speed of light in its sprint towards the finish line.

One second they’re watching Luka fight
Next second they’re finding a breeder camp where the girls’ moms are
Third second Luka is crowned king after defeating most of the ten contestants
Fourth second they’re infiltrating said camp
Fifth second they’re at a mini war and everyone is saved
Sixth second Aspen and her mom are bosom buddies in two shakes of a ducks tail. Two days it took her to become bffs and share horror tales with her.
Seventh second Maz is attacking them cause they’re dumb and stupid enough to visit a hunter cemetery to visit WhatsHisNameEx when anyone with a sane mind would know not to go. Cause. It’s. Enemy territory.
Eight second cassara or whatever her name is is kidnapping Aspen because ofc not enough shit has happened in the book as of yet. Plus the author needed a way to kill her off so Aspen and Luka can get their HEA.
Ninth second Luka asks Aspen to become a vampire since that’s the only way he can marry her and have the kingdom but she’s disgusted and thinks becoming a vampire is absolutely horrible so Luka sacrifices everything to marry human-fae Aspen (there’s a word for her kind but I’ve forgotten it)
Tenth second Morgana kidnaps Aspen and then shoots her till she’s at deaths doors so Luka now has no choice but to change her cause OHMYGOD they love each other. But Aspen says no cause she’s a selfish bitch.
And last but not least ofc Aspen turns into a vamp after consenting cause gasp she Just realized it’s not all about her and also cause the story would end of that didnt happen and she died/ remained human-fae.

Yeah. That was all within. Less than 200 pages I think.
I actually read another series of this author. Well not a series I think I read book one and I had to stop. So I was very much reluctant to read this one. Boy was I right. There is a good plot here. But the execution is just poor. Or maybe I just don’t like fast paced ones and this is completely normal. I don’t know. All I know is the second Luka asked Aspen if she would consider being turned and the moment she said it was horrible and she couldn’t and what not, I knew she would end up in a situation where she’d be forced to change. I admit vampire stories with human MCs usually end up with them getting turned. But this was just silly. Not three pages after her vehemently denying ever wanting to be a vampire and being okay with dooming the world cause Morgana would get the throne after Luka is kicked out, oh look everything is fine and she’s a vampire. No. That is not how you tell a compelling story. Okay you need to include the cliche turning part. Can be forgiven. But never like this.

So yeah I am not going to be reading book three. Don’t give a shit about how it’ll only take two pages for Aspen to get over her ohemgee-vampires-are-disgusting-Demons-but-Luka-is-different mantra. No sirree not interested at all

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved returning to this world and catching up with everyone again.
Aspen definitely has the wrong end of the stick in this deal. I'm sure everyone else was suitable outraged when that happened. (You know what I'm talking about). Some of the action seemed to come and resolve too quickly, but then again I also didn't want the drawn out angst.
I think Maple is going to be a favourite.

[Spasticnontastic · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75

[abbey willcox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now that’s what I’m talking about!! Yess this book was soo good 🙌🏼 I know I only gave the first book four stars but this one was exactly what I was looking and hoping for!! Jam packed with non stop action. That ending!!! Christ almighty how many times can that happen to a girl?! And I can’t believe what happened. How will Aspen be in the next book?! I think she is going to rock it and be a total badass!! Aspen will own it. One thing I adored about this book was my favourite characters from the other series crossing over into this series. Demi, Sage, Liv and Aspen are everything together!! I could have read the whole book just based on them four on their adventures 😂 GIRL POWER!! They all had me cracking up. I felt so much more adventure in this book and I was sucked in from the beginning. There is still SO much to happen and we only have one book left!!! I just know it’s going to blow my mind and leave me an anxious mess 😂 so much happened in this book but I don’t want to go into detail and slip any spoilers!! I’m off to binge the next book 🤪🙌🏼

[🇵🇸🇵🇸 hasfia 🇵🇸🇵🇸 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lukas an IDIOT! “ILL DO ANYTHING FOR YOU EXCEPT THAT ONE THING YOU WANT ME TO DO FOR YOU” LOOKING ASS CRUSTY DUSTY PUMPKIN HEADED WOULD-HAVE-TURNED-OU-TO-BE-A-CHEATER-IF-ASPEN-DIDNT-HAVE-MORALS HAVING ASS!!!!!!!!!!


And Aspen got on my nerves with her indecisiveness concerning Luka like girl you want him or nah? TheN NAB HIS ASSSSSSS but she’s a girl and girls can do no wrong ☺️

Next one is the last one I wanna see Luka suffer!

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5 stars
Omg that ending!! I need book three stat holy heck.

[Payne’s Bookworm Reviews (Samantha Payne) · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Dark Bond” is book two in Leia Stone’s Vampire Hunter Society series. This continues on from where Book one The Dark Bite ends and ends on a cliffhanger.

If you thought Book one was addictive well you are in for a ride with this one.

Aspen is struggling with the knowledge of her heritage and the Guild, whilst also fighting the feelings while still feeding Luka who happens to be engaged. With no home or money she and Liv must go to Magic City as Luka’s “feeders” whilst he goes through the trials to become King of the Vampires.

I really enjoyed the character and story development in this book. Seeing characters from the Wolf Girl series is an absolute pleasure and treat. (Not going to say who, you are just going to have to read it to see.)

Although I do sympathy to what Aspen is going through I still found her character to be quite selfish and bitchy. Now I’m not saying I don’t like Aspen’s character cause that’s not what I’m saying, it’s just I found her irritating and frustrating to read at times. She is going through hell yes, which is why I am sympathetic to her, but she isn’t the only one going through a rough time. Other people/species are having a rougher time and the decisions they make affect a lot more than themselves unlike Aspen. But there are definitely times during the book that she shows some real growth.

I read this book in one sitting and it took me two days to sit down and write this review, as my emotions and mentality were not on par to sit and write it and have it make sense. If you are looking for a nail biting edge of your seat read, with action, suspense, drama, angst and crushes than this book is for you. If you are looking for rainbows, unicorns and lollipops I recommend the kids section in the library lol.

I will say this, if you are not a fan of cliffhangers, than sorry but this one is going to leave you reeling. I am stressing and worrying over what is going to take place in book three, but at the same time totally excited and can’t wait.

[The Caffeinated Grimoire · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the feels

Re-Read ♡

The books just keep getting better and better I'm definitely in love with this series I think it's taking the cup as my favorite of Leia's books and she has so many good ones ❤

Can't wait to read the third book

After finding out that everything she knew was a lie Aspen has no where else to go but with Luca to Vampire City whilst he competes for his right to the crown. Aspen and Liv pose as feeders for Luca, even though he can only drink from her.
But Luca's betrothed Cassara presents a small issue and she doesn't hide her dislike for Aspen, even asking Luca to get rid of her which for obvious reasons she's not aware of because anyone finding out would paint a target on Aspens back.
As Aspen and Liv try to figure out where to go from here after finding out the truth about the society she also trys to reel in her heart knowing Luca will eventually wed Cassara. But things take a drastic turn multiple times and it seems Aspen is having a run of bad luck after she finds herself kidnapped multiple times and even comes head to head with Maz. But when her life is left hanging in the balance will she have to become the one thing she's always hated in order to survive or will the thought alone leave her willing to depart this life.

Definitely Recommend Reading 📚

[Saberein · Rating 3 out of 5]

Oh man, where to begin...

The first book had me sold, it had everything going for it and I couldn't wait for the second one.
Now the second book just was such a let down from the first one. Oh man, where to begin...
Beginning with the FL, she's supposed to be this kick*** heroine but she was a mess. Had all kinds of openings defensively that got her shot and kidnapped her arrogance was misplaced and she was just so stupidly naive and dense that she came out to be annoying and a total dick. And then you got Luka ; I liked him but he also got on my nerves in this second book. He was obsessed with Aspen but was a total pushover and lacked depth. Overall this second book was so predictable and kind of boring that I made myself read 82% of this book until I couldn't go any farther.
I am sorry to say but I don't think I can follow up with the third of this series, this has been milked enough for me.

[Sarah Cupitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ending was like, FINALLY. (yes, I'm now reading the final book in the series because of the cliffhanger). The mum naming both her daughters after trees made me tear up a lil. On the other hand, the slave encampments made me feel ill. Not as good as Book 1.

Favourite quotes:
- “You haven’t realized yet?” My confusion deepened. “Realized what?” Luka reached out and twirled a lock of my red hair between his fingers. “My lifespan is dictated by yours, Aspen. When you die, I will starve to death.”
- ‘Are you trying to kill me?’ he huffed into my mind. ‘If I had a beating heart, it would stop right now.’
- “Now remember what makes this fight so unique,” the announcer continued, “is that Morgana sired Luka and so he cannot kill her. Whether she wins or loses, she will be walking away with her life today. I can’t say the same for Luka.”
- ‘Kick her royal ass,’ I seethed through our bond. He glanced at me, throwing me a halfcocked grin. ‘Gladly, my love.’
- “Your mother was too soft on you. You’d be a weak teddy bear if you’d have been left with her.”“If you let her live, you mean?” Luka’s voice was absolutely venomous.
- I mean, at what point did I just break down and see a therapist? This couldn’t be healthy to go through so much change all at once, so fast.
- “Once banished from my community, they now bow when I visit. I’ve built an empire while they sat on their thumbs.”
- “It’s good that if you die, I die too, because I’ve come to realize I can’t live without you.”
- Lowering her voice, she whispered. “I saw what you did in the breeder encampment.” I froze. Crap. Here to absolve Luka of one crime, was she about to commit me for another? “Well done,” she murmured. Surprise ran through me as she grinned and turned on her heel to leave. Okay … that chick was not what I expected.
- His words thrummed excitement through me. That was a fast verdict. “Anything,” I told him, standing and throwing my arms around his neck, grinning ear to ear. The absolute look of dread on his face made the smile slip from my mouth. “What is it?” My voice shook. “I … have to change you into a vampire.” (yessss)

Funny moments:
- “This is awesome!” she said as she scrolled through the movies with her feet up on the couch. “I find out I’m suddenly broke and ten minutes later I’m a sugar baby to a rich vampire prince.”
- “That was like angry sex … without the sex,” Sage offered.
- I was suddenly insanely jealous of all these solid relationships around me. All I ever wanted from Sterling was commitment. House, kids, ring. I was that chick. Instead, I fell for a walking dead guy who was engaged to a walking dead girl. Cue mental breakdown.
- “Luka is hardcore, he goes all psycho like an ex-con with daddy issues,” Liv told the table, which caused Demi to burst into laughter.
- “You’re stuck with me forever anyway. You might as well get some perks out of the relationship.” He grinned.

Fav smut moments:
- One by one, all of the feeders disappeared into their respective booths, so I did the same. I stepped inside of the dark, barely-lit coffin. It was akin to a small utility closet with a single blacklight hanging overhead. I barely had time to register Luka’s form before me when he zoomed forward, taking my face into his hands and pulling my lips to his mouth.
- A gasp ripped from my lungs as he pushed his tongue inside my mouth in a surprisingly passionate kiss. I moaned, opening my mouth wider and wrapping my arms around his lower back, pressing him closer to me. ‘Georgio said he wanted to switch feeders with me because you looked so delicious and I nearly lost my mind,’ he huffed inside my head, his hands trailing down my spine. ‘I don’t ever want to share you with another man. Ever.’
- I stepped forward seductively, knowing that in order to get him to drink, I’d have to force his hand. I pulled my long red hair over one shoulder and exposed my neck, stepping onto my tippy toes and shoving it in his face. “Aspen,” he growled. “I want it,” I begged, and it wasn’t a lie.
- “I love that I can kiss you whenever I want now,” he purred in my ear.

[Rhonda 🌒🌕🌘 🐈‍⬛ · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌟4/5
❤️‍🩹4/5
🥰4/5
🌶️1/5
🔎0/5
😰4/5
🎭😂1/5
🎭😭2/5
👻0/5
🔬0/5
🔫0/5
🏥3/5
✍🏼4/5
🥱0/5
🏃🏻‍♀️5/5
🌎5/5
💁🏻‍♀️5/5
🙅🏻‍♀️


⚠️⛔️TRIGGERS:⛔️⚠️

Attempted Murder
Murder
Death
War
Blood
Gore
Injury/Injury Detail
Medical Content
Medical Trauma

🗯️💬BOOK BLURB:💬🗯️

Everything I thought I knew was a lie.

The evil vampire spawn I’d hunted my entire life have turned out to be my only allies. Hidden away in Magic City, I’ve promised to help support Luka as he competes to become King.

The problem? I’m falling for him and he’s engaged to be married.

To get my mind off of my boy problem, Liv and I band together with our allies to dig deeper into the betrayal of every hunter. What I find shocks me to my core.

With Luka’s fiancé breathing down my neck, and hidden truths bubbling to the surface daily, it will take every skill I have to stay alive.

🌎📖OVERALL REVIEWS📖🌎
Courtesy of Storygraph

COMMUNITY REVIEWS
SUMMARY OF 132 REVIEWS

Moods
emotional 80%
dark 60%
adventurous 50%
funny 50%
tense 50%
mysterious 40%
hopeful 30%
challenging 20%
inspiring 10%
lighthearted 10%
reflective 10%
Pace
fast 72%
medium 27%
Plot- or character-driven?
A mix: 60% | Plot: 40%
Strong character development?
Yes: 66% | No: 22% | It's complicated: 11%
Loveable characters?
Yes: 80% | It's complicated: 10% | No: 10%
Diverse cast of characters?
Yes: 80% | No: 20%
Flaws of characters a main focus?
Yes: 40% | It's complicated: 30% | No: 30%
Average rating
4.06 ⭐️

🤔🧐🤯MY THOUGHTS:🤯🧐🤔

This one was much better than the first book in my opinion but once again it leaves a little bit of a cliffhanger. First Max wounds her, Luka’s wife, Kissara, does a number on our girl and if that wasn’t enough Luka’s aunt, Morgan’s, tries to finish the job. Liv has something to say about it.

RATING KEY:

🌟 Stars - based on the overall plot and theme or idea of the book
❤️‍🩹 Emotions - based on how emotional I got while reading
🥰 Romance - based on how well I got invested in the love story aspect
🌶️ Spice - based on how the sex scenes were portrayed and written as well as the number of sex scenes
🔎 Mystery - based on how well it kept me guessing who, how and why
😰 Scared🫣/Anxious😱 - based on how scared or anxious the book made me while reading
🎭 Comedy😂/Tragedy😭
-based on if I laughed or if there was a tragic event and how it affected me. I will mark the Masks with either a C or T to indicate Comedy or Tragedy
👻 Spooky😵‍💫/Creepy🧟‍♀️ -based on if this had any occult or paranormal themes and if those elements creeped me out or gave me anxiety!
🔬 Sci-Fi -based on the Science Fiction in the book as well as the Dystopian elements.
🔫 Action/Thriller -based on if I thought this was more of a spy action type of thriller.
🏥 Medical Content -based on the amount and the accuracy of any medical content or if the book is supposed to be a medical style thriller.
✍🏼 Writing Style -based on if I enjoyed the writing style or not and how the author portrayed the world, characters, concept, plot etc.
🥱 Boredom -based on if I was bored if it held my interest or if I’d rather be doing something else 😴.
🏃🏻‍♀️ Book Pacing -Based on how quickly I thought the book moved.
🌎 World Development -Based on how well I liked the world development of the story.
💁🏻‍♀️ Character Development -Based on how well the characters were fleshed out and if I hated or loved with a passion.
🙅🏻‍♀️ DNF -based on if the book is just stupid, boring, childish, overly ridiculous etc.

[le reflet des livres · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alors pour une fois je n’ai d’autre choix que de spoiler le tome 1 pour vous parler de ce tome-là donc si vous n’avez pas lu le tome 1, que faites-vous encore là ? Allez l’achetez, le lire et revenez après ! Je ne spoilerais pas le 2, mais je vais être obligé de spoiler un minimum le 1. Vous êtes encore là ? OK go c’est parti !

OMG ce tome de fou j’ai trop adoré je l’ai dévoré encore plus vite que le tome 1 en quelques heures à peine ! On va donc retrouver Aspen, Luka, Liv et bien sûr l’indésirable Cassara en route pour Vampire City ! Les épreuves pour la succession au trône vont démarrer et Luka est en Lice, évidemment il a besoin d’Aspen, et elle a besoin d’un endroit où se cacher de Mav et la Maison de la Rose après ce qu’elle a découvert à la fin du tome 1 !

On va retrouver une Aspen bouleversée par les révélations sur ses origines, en proie aux doutes, mais surtout à la colère face aux mensonges qui ont constitué sa vie. Elle doit remettre en question tout ce qu’on lui a appris, tout ce qu’elle croyait acquis… Sa vie prend un tournant à 180 ° et elle doit s’adapter aussi à sa qualité de nourricière et trouver sa place dans ce monde dont elle ignore tout. Heureusement elle ne sera pas seule. Déjà Liv sa meilleure amie l’accompagne, mais on va aussi retrouver avec plaisir d’autres personnages du premier tome et les découvrir un peu plus : Demi et Sage que j’ai adoré !

J’ai eu un peu de mal avec certaines des réactions d’Aspen vis-à-vis de sa relation avec Luka. Je l’ai trouvée assez inconstante. Elle dit l’attendre, puis le lendemain elle le presse, puis une heure après elle succombe… Bref j’ai trouvé parfois certaines de ses réactions pas très logiques. Malgré ça j’ai beaucoup aimé l’évolution de leur relation et l’éclosion de leurs sentiments, même si, à cause de Cassara tout cela doit rester caché… pour le moment. 

J’ai beaucoup aimé l’intrigue de ce tome qui se découpe en trois niveaux. Le tournoi pour la succession au trône, le souhait d’Aspen de faire payer Mav et la maison de la Rose et de détruire le système mis en place, et un troisième niveau qui nous emmène aux pays des fées. Une fois encore la fin est humainement insupportable et je réclame la suite à corps et à cris !

[Gabriella · Rating 4 out of 5]

One sexy Vampire coming up!

The Dark Bond continues on from book 1, where Aspen deals with the realisation that her life was a lie. But now she’s in a new place—Vampire City—with Luka. He’s come back to fight for the crown in a series of battles against other royals, to the death.

But there’s other things in the way of Luka and Aspen… his betrothed!

So, while Aspen is forced to watch as Luka not just partakes in dangerous fights, she also has to stand by while he goes through an arranged marriage.

During that time though, Aspen learns new things about herself and she’s reunited with her mother and sister. She builds new relationships and friendships too. It was so lovely seeing both Demi and Sage back, they welcomed both Aspen and Liv, her bestie, in with open arms.

However, Luka and Aspen’s bond grows stronger with each passing moment they spend together! They discover new things about themselves and each other. We were able to learn more of Luka’s dark past and up-bringing.

Aspen goes through so much, and it’s definitely a whirlwind as something always happens. I wasn’t expecting her to lose her chance of ever baring her own children—something she really wanted—and I think that was such a bitter sweet moment in the book too. This was kind of a reverse situation because a lot of times in books fmc’s are very adamant in the notion that they do not wish to have children then yet the author ends up giving the a child in the end, so it was kind of bitter sweet to see the opposite happen as a lot of times in reality women go through things where they may need a hysterectomy.

Now, the ending of this one was not what I expected. After Aspen declaring that she does not wish to be ever turned into a Vampire I thought that was the moment any expectations of it happened were ruled out… I guess I was wrong.

[Heather Rainwater-Alvarado · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Total Binge Read; But Watch Out for Those Plot Bombs!!!

I was sucked in with The Dark Bite but The Dark Bond took it to a whole other level! Things pick up right where they left off, and the throttle continues to the very end of the book. Aspen struggles with the truth of her heritage and implications of the VHS along what it means to be truly bonded to Luka (not to mention all of HIS struggles) that it’s refreshing to have imperfect characters who have to figure it out along the way. She’s so strong yet vulnerable at times that it’s inspiring (if a little immature at times). But the kicker is all of the plot twists and bombs that Stone drops throughout the entire story. By the end, my head was spinning from all the action. It made for a very quick and enjoyable read; yet naturally left me wanting more. There are several plot bombs (because the words plot twists doesn’t quite cover it) in the last third of the book, to the very final page.

As a native to Spokane, I absolutely loved seeing the different scenes around my old hometown. She truly did it justice! I was also adopted at a young age, so the piece where Aspen (and Liv) find out about their heritage and truth about their upbringing was deeply moving. This book made me cry several times throughout it. Not just because of the characters’ struggles against the several villains, but their emotional struggles struck all the chords too. That gigantic hook at the end was brutal though! At least we only have one more book in this trilogy so I cannot wait to see how Stone will wrap everything up! I still loooooove this spin-off the most out of the entire series. It’s definitely something I’ll reread often!

[Nole4Life · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wrote this in my review of book 1. The writing is superficial. The story lacks detail and skims issues. This is not necessarily a bad thing, I’m just making you aware. If you want a book that you can sink your teeth into then this is not the book you want. If you want an easy and fun read then this is a good one.

PROS
- light, easy and fast read. I wasn’t looking for anything serious and this has been a great series for that.
- couldn’t wait to see the feeder farm destroyed.
- look forward to see how Luka gets out of his marriage.

CONS
- even though I enjoyed the book lacking in detail there were a couple of storylines that could have been exploited. First, I was excited about the trials but that ended up just being a couple of fights. This storyline could have been exciting, action packed and allow us to see a bad ass Luka. Secondly, the Aspen and Cassara plot could have been beefed up to where Cassara was a true villain and bully. It turns out she was just a filler.
- her mother and sister had no issues adapting to freedom. Even though both were raised as slaves they seemed to already know about the outside world. This was very unbelievable.
- I didn’t like that Aspen wouldn’t let Luka turn her. She was willing to do a lot to be with him except to become a vampire. If I was Luka I would have felt hurt and insulted. First, she wasn’t initially willing to turn in order to save his life. Secondly, that meant she still thought vampires to be beneath her.

[Taylor Merchant · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dark Bite ended and The Dark Bond picks up right where it ended at. Boy are we in for a ride with book 2. It takes you on a rollercoaster of events with a lot of things happening.

Aspen is struggling with the truth of her heritage and what it means to be truly bonded with Luca. She is a very strong character but also vulnerable at times. I love that the author makes these character not be perfect and have them struggle along the way.

There were so many twists and turns and Leia does a wonderful job of dropping hints throughout the whole book. This is a quick read because there was so much happening that you won't want to put it down. There was so much action and takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions and ride.

I loved seeing the development between the Luca and Aspen and seeing Aspen being bonded to Luca. It is a very well written second book the the series and I can't wait to see how Stone has everything come together in the last book. There is a cliffhanger at the end, but would highly recommend reading or starting the series!

I received an ARC for an honest review.

[Lune & Plume · Rating 4 out of 5]

Retour sur les événements passés : Aspen a enfin accepté son lien avec Luka. Elle commence à ouvrir les yeux et découvre que la société dont elle fait partie n'est pas aussi idyllique qu'elle le pensait. Il semblerait même qu'elle soit vérolée de l'intérieur. Aspen et Liv décide de mener l'enquête sur les secrets bien cachés de Maz. Et les réponses à ses questions ne sont pas celles auxquelles elle s'attendait.

Dans ce tome, Aspen se fait de nouveaux alliés/amis. Elle découvre bien vite que les créatures obscures ne sont pas les êtres maléfiques qu'on lui a appris à combattre. Le mal n'est pas ce qu'il paraît. Et avec leur aide, Aspen et Liv vont essayer d'aider Luka à monter sur le trône vampirique afin de faire la paix entre les créatures obscures. Aspen et Liv découvriront la vérité sur leurs origines. Elles décideront de ce battre contre les sociétés des chasseurs afin d'aider les créatures surnaturelles.

La relation romantique entre Aspen et Luka se développe progressivement tout au long de ce second tome. Malheureusement, il se termine sur un immense cliffhanger qui me fait regretter de ne pas avoir le troisième tome. L'attente va être longue.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

more like 3.75 stars!

quick paced second installment that takes place directly after the first book! I think I liked the first book slightly more than the second book but still it was a good sequel!

was kinda meh that the author went the whole route with luka having a fiancée and even getting married while still being in love with aspen but I guess it works out in the end!

the part where aspen gets to meet her mother and sister was neat (laughed at her sisters name too) and I hope the author continues developing their relationship. I like the support system aspen has around her and even the friends luka has too! I’m glad it’s not just focused entirely on aspen and luka but that they have a good community surrounding them.

the whole part with lukas fiancée and aspen was kinda predictable but it’s ok because at least she gets taken out of the picture (tho it was very quick and a little anti climactic)… but sometimes I wish that authors wouldn’t just pit woman against each other but somehow show growth or even a compromise between the two.

[Booksofnyx · Rating 3 out of 5]

Note : 2,75/5☆

Le deuxième tome est dans la lignée du premier. On a encore des pistes d'univers, des personnages cool (même les secondaires), mais malheureusement pas assez de développement pour qu'on puisse en apprécier le potentiel.

Je crois que c'est encore plus flagrant, parce qu'on a rajouté en +, des répétitions.

Aspen est en colère contre Luka, il est en rogne contre elle : Dispute. Il lui déclare des sentiments, elle dit qu'elle peut pas les accepter, mais l'embrasse. Puis ils se redisputent... sans oublier l'arrivée de la fiancée vampire insupportable.

Luka est encore moins présent, sauf quand Aspen est en danger, ou quand il a besoin de boire le sang de cette dernière... J'ai donc eu du mal à comprendre comment Aspen a pu avoir des sentiments pour lui, d'autant plus si on considère les ouroboros de l'intrigue.

Je lirais quand même le troisième tome quand il sortira, parce qu'il y a eu de l'action. Des pistes aussi d'intrigues me poussent à connaître la fin. Et encore une fois, le plot twist de fin !

[Sue Harbers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dark Bond was an absolutely thrilling follow up to The Dark Bite! Aspen really struggles as this book opens up and she’s dealing with the loss of her first love and who she really is. Not to mention Luka’s little truth bomb that blew up the end of book 1. Things only get more hectic as Luka has to fight to the death for the role of King. Aspen and Luka are drawn together but are kept apart by several factors and only time will tell if those are going to be permanent barriers. Their chemistry and affection for each other is really the heart of this story, I love the both of them. Honestly Luka has continued to impress me so much and I think he’s awesome. It’s weird to say but I kinda like the turn the story is taking for Aspen at the end of the book, I can’t wait to see where this goes!

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

How many times can you survive an attempted murder?

The Dark Bond is the second installment of the vampire hunter series. In this novel, you follow Aspen and Luka to the magic city where Luka must fight to become king. Aspen struggles with her newfound feelings for Luka with the complication of his betrothed. Stone plays with your emotions and keeps you at the edge of your seat as the plethora of creatures wanting Aspen or Luka dead, will one finally succeed?

This novel was an engaging and riveting read, with constant drama and turns to keep you guessing. I enjoyed this chapter of Luka and Aspen's story immensely more than the first book. The growth Aspen engaged in was pleasing to witness with a huge cliffhanger that will once again test everything Aspen knows. I look forward to the next installment of this trilogy.

[Marita Viljoen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoiler-Free Review: The Dark Bond (Vampire Hunter Society, #2) by Leia Stone
The Dark Bond continues the Vampire Hunter Society series with a thrilling mix of suspense, romance, and paranormal action. Leia Stone deepens the stakes, exploring both external dangers and the evolving emotional connections between her characters.
The romance develops naturally, with slow-burn tension, trust-building, and emotional vulnerability taking center stage alongside high-stakes supernatural conflicts. Stone balances action, intrigue, and heart, keeping the story engaging while deepening the bond between the leads.
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy paranormal romance with suspense, strong characters, and a balance of action and emotional depth. The Dark Bond is a gripping continuation of the series, delivering danger, passion, and satisfying character development. 🦇💖

[Brandy (this_b_loves_books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Dark Bond (Vampire Hunter Society #2)
Author: Leia Stone
M/F PNR

Stars: 4/5

I totally binged this one. It didn't even take me long. I was anticipating this read and it did not disappoint one bit. There are so many times Luka had me swooning and so many WTF moments that my I was tearing through the pages to find out what would happen next. So many revelations and so many hold your breath moments, this was truly and exciting read. There were moments when I was feeling so cattty on Aspen's behalf. I love seeing the characters from other Leia stories that we all love. #girlgang

The bomb at the end had me reading it twice and now I can't wait to see what is in Aspen and Lukas future.

[Kelly Fountain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was craving this so hard and I got my fix!!! Now I’m needing more!!
Aspen was exactly what you want in a female lead and I loved every second of her first story, even if we were left grasping at what had happened and what she now had to endure. Vampire City is going to take her places she never dream of going and new truths will come to light. The heartache isn’t over nor is the physical pain she will have to experience. New friendships will become secured and past ones will be tested. The ending will leave you feening for the next one.
Leia has done a fantastic job on this series. She had the gift of a storyteller and manages us to take us to a special place with each story she creates. Impatiently waiting for the next book!!

[Jassicca · Rating 5 out of 5]

The dark bond refers to Aspen's relationship with Luka, the vampire prince. Initially, the protagonist despises Luka, and in her view, the bond is a nuisance. However, over time, after she gets to know Luka better, her opinion towards him changes, and she eventually falls in love with him, only to find out that Luka has had a marriage arrangement since he was little.

Book two brings heartache and uncertainty for Aspen, but fans of the Wolf Girl series will be happy because Demi's team will get involved on several occasions in the story. As for me, thanks to Liv's persuasion, I'm pleased with how the story unfolds and can't wait to read Aspen's happy ending in the next book! Happy reading!

[nat _lovestoread · Rating 5 out of 5]

One intense and shocking ride!!! 🖤

WTF!!!... this book left me emotionally drained, with this rollercoaster of intense emotions and shocking events and revelations 😩😭
Now, more than ever, I love #myluka, he is so damn #hot and #perfect 😍❤
Love to read about all our beloved crew and how they keep doing the right thing and saving the innocents!!! 🤗💪👊
Aspen took the worst in this installment, but her inner light, strong will and righteousness, give her the strength to keep fighting, even when she has to make difficult choices, the well-being of the masses taking priority over herself!!! 🥰
Now, that f'ing cliffhanger 😭... I need the next book stat!!! 🤩💕