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Bound Together
Years after world shattering events leading to all countries separating from each other, Camille Foster finds herself in the middle of a political game and a rebellion attempting to set the world back to how it once was. It isn’t until Camille meets Josiah that she finds a bit of hope and the possibility of change. But not eveything is what it seems. Her life and world is about to get so much bigger and only she can save her world from the evil lurking in the shadows. Trusting the wrong people could be her end.
226 pages, Paperback
Published January 29, 2025
About the author
Ashley N. Pearce
3 books56 followersI am happily married and have 3 beautiful children. My husband and sons are my inspiration and my motivation. I strive to do great things for them and succeed because I want them to be proud of me!
I graduated from Grand Valley State with a B.S. in Criminal Justice. When I'm not reading, I'm working on my new book. Reading and writing has always been an escape for me and continues to be an outlet that I use often.
I graduated from Grand Valley State with a B.S. in Criminal Justice. When I'm not reading, I'm working on my new book. Reading and writing has always been an escape for me and continues to be an outlet that I use often.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
May 9, 2026
This is my first book by this talented indie author and it definitely won't be the last.
it's a sci-fi romance that keep me totally invested in this 5 star read. It so many twists that I couldn't guess what was going to happen next.
The world is not what it used to be. All the countries are now seperate.
Camille who gets pulled into a political game of cat and mouse not by choice.
She meets Josiah who becomes an ally who wants to help to set things right. She has an abnormally strong attraction to him, but why? What makes him so different?
She then starts to realize that things and people are not what they appear to be on the outside. I'm giving away any spoilers. You need to read the book.
You are left on cliff hanger, oh no.
it's a sci-fi romance that keep me totally invested in this 5 star read. It so many twists that I couldn't guess what was going to happen next.
The world is not what it used to be. All the countries are now seperate.
Camille who gets pulled into a political game of cat and mouse not by choice.
She meets Josiah who becomes an ally who wants to help to set things right. She has an abnormally strong attraction to him, but why? What makes him so different?
She then starts to realize that things and people are not what they appear to be on the outside. I'm giving away any spoilers. You need to read the book.
You are left on cliff hanger, oh no.
October 18, 2025
Bound Together by Ashley N. Pearce is an immersive sci-fi romance that delivers vivid world-building, unexpected twists, and a romance that mirrors the protagonist’s own emotional journey.
Told from Camille’s first-person perspective, the story begins in a dystopian society that gradually evolves into a broader, more complex universe. We follow Camille as she navigates high-stakes missions, alien threats, and a mysterious bond that ties her to Josiah. This bond tests her loyalty and heart.
Camille starts off sharp. She’s cunning, which I enjoyed. As the story progressed, I found myself wanting more consistency in her instincts and emotional responses, especially in high-stakes moments, so there were a few parts where her reactions didn’t quite align with the intensity of the situation, and some emotional moments felt underexplored, but we do see her internal conflict deepen later in the book, and those chapters really stood out for me because of her character growth. We see her get hit with the stronger sense of responsibility.
The development of the bond itself, both its concept and its emotional weight, was one of the most intriguing aspects of the story. I absolutely loved the concept and how, along with the characters, the readers are left with the curiosity of exploring the bond for the first time.
The plot twists were fantastic. 😍 They were unexpected and well-timed.
I absolutely loved Jerod’s character development. He was written in such a beautiful three-dimensional manner that not only kept me invested but made him my personal favorite.
Now, let me talk about the world-building a bit, here. 🤩
See, these imaginative worlds exist in an author’s mind, but putting it in writing to transport the readers is brutal. As someone who loves world-building, I was awed by how well Pearce handled it. Straight from the prologue onward, Pearce’s world-building shines rich in detail. It’s easy to visualize and it's thoughtfully constructed. I appreciated the imagery immensely because she successfully painted the pictures of her universe in my head. The cultures, technologies, and landscapes are distinct and vivid, making the author’s world feel alive and easy to follow. The comparisons between different societies and technological advancements helped ground the reader in this imaginative world.
There were moments in Bound Together where the worlds, the parasites, the societies, and the romance reminded me a bit of Bauldur’s Gate 3. 😍 So, if you enjoyed the concept and story vibes of the game, you're in for a treat with Pearce's story.
Any gamers here?
No?
Okay. 👀
The epilogue was beautifully executed and left me… hanging.
My literal epilogue reaction:
😱😱😱
Bound Together was such a fun adventure, and I am now eagerly looking forward to Book II.
If you haven't read this brilliant creative work, or if you haven't added it to your TBR, you're missing out.
Just sayin.' 💁♀️
Told from Camille’s first-person perspective, the story begins in a dystopian society that gradually evolves into a broader, more complex universe. We follow Camille as she navigates high-stakes missions, alien threats, and a mysterious bond that ties her to Josiah. This bond tests her loyalty and heart.
Camille starts off sharp. She’s cunning, which I enjoyed. As the story progressed, I found myself wanting more consistency in her instincts and emotional responses, especially in high-stakes moments, so there were a few parts where her reactions didn’t quite align with the intensity of the situation, and some emotional moments felt underexplored, but we do see her internal conflict deepen later in the book, and those chapters really stood out for me because of her character growth. We see her get hit with the stronger sense of responsibility.
The development of the bond itself, both its concept and its emotional weight, was one of the most intriguing aspects of the story. I absolutely loved the concept and how, along with the characters, the readers are left with the curiosity of exploring the bond for the first time.
The plot twists were fantastic. 😍 They were unexpected and well-timed.
I absolutely loved Jerod’s character development. He was written in such a beautiful three-dimensional manner that not only kept me invested but made him my personal favorite.
Now, let me talk about the world-building a bit, here. 🤩
See, these imaginative worlds exist in an author’s mind, but putting it in writing to transport the readers is brutal. As someone who loves world-building, I was awed by how well Pearce handled it. Straight from the prologue onward, Pearce’s world-building shines rich in detail. It’s easy to visualize and it's thoughtfully constructed. I appreciated the imagery immensely because she successfully painted the pictures of her universe in my head. The cultures, technologies, and landscapes are distinct and vivid, making the author’s world feel alive and easy to follow. The comparisons between different societies and technological advancements helped ground the reader in this imaginative world.
There were moments in Bound Together where the worlds, the parasites, the societies, and the romance reminded me a bit of Bauldur’s Gate 3. 😍 So, if you enjoyed the concept and story vibes of the game, you're in for a treat with Pearce's story.
Any gamers here?
No?
Okay. 👀
The epilogue was beautifully executed and left me… hanging.
My literal epilogue reaction:
😱😱😱
Bound Together was such a fun adventure, and I am now eagerly looking forward to Book II.
If you haven't read this brilliant creative work, or if you haven't added it to your TBR, you're missing out.
Just sayin.' 💁♀️
December 18, 2025
Wow what an epilogue! This book had me questioning everything! Lol the twists and unexpected emotions like did that really just happen, it was like an addiction I cldnt stop reading. Like I need book 2 immediately!
This book is a dystopian, sci-fi fantasy and it was so unlike anything I have ever read. I cld feel myself getting into a reading slump until I picked this book up and starting reading it!! It pulled me right out of that slump and I need more! Her writing pulls you in with the plot and the banter and the twists and turns this book gives you, is fantastic!
Camille is hell bent on fixing the world that has completely fallen apart by corrupt people and even though she has to follow protocol, she is keeps her ears and eyes open at all times. Then she meets Josiah and she thinks he’s the answer to help her with her mission, until she learns he isn’t! You want so bad to hate Josiah until you get to that epilogue!
This book is a dystopian, sci-fi fantasy and it was so unlike anything I have ever read. I cld feel myself getting into a reading slump until I picked this book up and starting reading it!! It pulled me right out of that slump and I need more! Her writing pulls you in with the plot and the banter and the twists and turns this book gives you, is fantastic!
Camille is hell bent on fixing the world that has completely fallen apart by corrupt people and even though she has to follow protocol, she is keeps her ears and eyes open at all times. Then she meets Josiah and she thinks he’s the answer to help her with her mission, until she learns he isn’t! You want so bad to hate Josiah until you get to that epilogue!
April 13, 2025
That epilogue what!!!
I really enjoyed this. Kept me on my toes and wanting more !!
I really enjoyed this. Kept me on my toes and wanting more !!
November 7, 2025
I loved this story. I can't wait for the next one. I need to know what happens! I recommend to any sci-fi fans. What a ride!
June 22, 2026
Better Than Expected
I discovered this author on TikTok. I read a sample of her work and found it to be written beautifully. The book opened with a bang and got better as I continued to read. I personally love this genre and will continue to read this series now that I’ve finished reading book 1. E. L. Wilk, Author of Body of Work
I discovered this author on TikTok. I read a sample of her work and found it to be written beautifully. The book opened with a bang and got better as I continued to read. I personally love this genre and will continue to read this series now that I’ve finished reading book 1. E. L. Wilk, Author of Body of Work
June 30, 2025
Was this my typical read? No, Did I love this? Yes! There were lots of twists and turns, it kept me wanting more throughout the entire book, I needed to know what was happening and what was going to happen. And then bam you get slapped with a to be continued! I can’t wait to find out what happens because that epilogue grabbed my heart!
August 17, 2025
Rebellion brews. Secrets rise. And trust could be fatal.
Camille’s world is crumbling under a corrupt system, and survival means staying quiet. But when she’s pulled into a resistance she never asked for and meets Josiah, everything changes.
Forced to choose between safety and freedom, love becomes the most dangerous risk of all. 🔥
Camille’s world is crumbling under a corrupt system, and survival means staying quiet. But when she’s pulled into a resistance she never asked for and meets Josiah, everything changes.
Forced to choose between safety and freedom, love becomes the most dangerous risk of all. 🔥
February 19, 2025
YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!
I didn’t know it but I’m apparently sci fi girlie now. This book was so beautifully written. There wasn’t an immense amount of boring world building that drags on forever. It jumps right into the action! But- you don’t feel confused at all. You are right there with Camille knowing what’s happening. The twists and turns will keep you reading up past your bedtime until you get to the best part… only to stumble upon a to be continued!!!! WE NEED MORE! The book didn’t feel too short or too long.. but it will leave you begging for the next one!
I didn’t know it but I’m apparently sci fi girlie now. This book was so beautifully written. There wasn’t an immense amount of boring world building that drags on forever. It jumps right into the action! But- you don’t feel confused at all. You are right there with Camille knowing what’s happening. The twists and turns will keep you reading up past your bedtime until you get to the best part… only to stumble upon a to be continued!!!! WE NEED MORE! The book didn’t feel too short or too long.. but it will leave you begging for the next one!
November 29, 2025
This book came highly recommended, and I went in with high expectations and it was so much more. I haven’t been this excited about a series since Twilight. It’s beautifully written and emotionally intense. I loved the connection between the characters and how the story balances darkness with heart. A powerful, addictive read I won’t forget anytime soon. There were so many surprising turns. The ending completely blindsided me. I can’t wait for the next one. Highly recommend.
September 8, 2025
Wow... what an adventure!
Fast-paced, intense, exciting...
This book kept me on my toes the entire time!
I loved how badass the main character was in the beginning and how humane and relatable she became later. I loved how unpredictable the story was... and the ending definitely was intriguing...
Fast-paced, intense, exciting...
This book kept me on my toes the entire time!
I loved how badass the main character was in the beginning and how humane and relatable she became later. I loved how unpredictable the story was... and the ending definitely was intriguing...
March 24, 2026
I went into this book completely blind, and honestly, I’m so glad I did. It hooked me right away…the first couple of chapters really set the tone and pulled me in fast.
I loved the main character. She’s super snarky, doesn’t back down, and isn’t intimidated by authority at all, which made her really fun to read. Her attitude just added so much personality to the story.
Then at one point, everything kind of shifts and starts to unravel, and I was completely glued to it. I ate up every second of that part…it just got more and more intense in the best way.
And that ending?? Yeah… I need answers immediately.
Overall, I had such a great time reading this. Definitely one of those books that keeps you hooked and leaves you wanting more.
I loved the main character. She’s super snarky, doesn’t back down, and isn’t intimidated by authority at all, which made her really fun to read. Her attitude just added so much personality to the story.
Then at one point, everything kind of shifts and starts to unravel, and I was completely glued to it. I ate up every second of that part…it just got more and more intense in the best way.
And that ending?? Yeah… I need answers immediately.
Overall, I had such a great time reading this. Definitely one of those books that keeps you hooked and leaves you wanting more.
June 18, 2026
Super Fast Paced Spicy Scifi Romance
This book is for the people holding all their anger in.
It is also for those who just need to unwind their minds!
Do you need a main a character who speaks fluent sarcasm? You got it.
Have a burning need to release some spite? She delivers.
Do you need a story you can fly through to unwind? This is the book for you!
The main female character starts off explaining the source of all her pent up aggression, and speaks throughout most of the story like someone who has zero grasp of what a social filter is. By the end, she grows and gives us a better glimpse of her true depth.
There's a lot going on in this one, as we step into a world where mostly only the western hemisphere is left in existence and all the countries have closed their borders. Tyranny rules supreme, and our girl is not only trying to survive, but has made it her life goal to conquer her Tyrants and free her country.
Everyone seems to have plans for her, not just on Earth, but also from other planets... and she rolls with those plans over and over again.
Everyone except her best friend, who ends up becoming a meat puppet to a parasitic alien.
I'm hoping the lifetime bff is able to be saved. I really do.
She's the only one (pre infection) that never had her own plans for our MFC. They were real, actual, trauma bonded besties with plans!
Book 2 just released, and I'm hoping to see our girl continue to grow, and maybe actually grab her own fate by the horns and make it her you-know-what.
Because the epilog was just that good.
This book is for the people holding all their anger in.
It is also for those who just need to unwind their minds!
Do you need a main a character who speaks fluent sarcasm? You got it.
Have a burning need to release some spite? She delivers.
Do you need a story you can fly through to unwind? This is the book for you!
The main female character starts off explaining the source of all her pent up aggression, and speaks throughout most of the story like someone who has zero grasp of what a social filter is. By the end, she grows and gives us a better glimpse of her true depth.
There's a lot going on in this one, as we step into a world where mostly only the western hemisphere is left in existence and all the countries have closed their borders. Tyranny rules supreme, and our girl is not only trying to survive, but has made it her life goal to conquer her Tyrants and free her country.
Everyone seems to have plans for her, not just on Earth, but also from other planets... and she rolls with those plans over and over again.
Everyone except her best friend, who ends up becoming a meat puppet to a parasitic alien.
I'm hoping the lifetime bff is able to be saved. I really do.
She's the only one (pre infection) that never had her own plans for our MFC. They were real, actual, trauma bonded besties with plans!
Book 2 just released, and I'm hoping to see our girl continue to grow, and maybe actually grab her own fate by the horns and make it her you-know-what.
Because the epilog was just that good.
April 12, 2025
April is Indie Author month, and I had no idea when I delved into this book that it would be a Sci Fi Romance! Color me surprised, but not disappointed at all! It was enjoyable, fast-paced, and I couldn't put it down.
The story occurs after World War Three when a World Separation Act is enacted and America is drastically changed. People have their careers chosen for them according to placement tests administered by the government. It follows two women, Camille and Amelia who fill out their placement tests completely randomly as a gesture of protest (which wouldn't get them killed) against the government. Although not suited for it, Amelia had been assigned to nursing, but more egregiously, Camille has been assigned to train as a possible replacement as the head of the powerful and controlling government that she despises.
I thought I knew where this story was headed ... but nothing could have prepared me for the twists and turns found in this book. I will pick up the next book in the series as soon as it is out! I have to see what happens next!
The story occurs after World War Three when a World Separation Act is enacted and America is drastically changed. People have their careers chosen for them according to placement tests administered by the government. It follows two women, Camille and Amelia who fill out their placement tests completely randomly as a gesture of protest (which wouldn't get them killed) against the government. Although not suited for it, Amelia had been assigned to nursing, but more egregiously, Camille has been assigned to train as a possible replacement as the head of the powerful and controlling government that she despises.
I thought I knew where this story was headed ... but nothing could have prepared me for the twists and turns found in this book. I will pick up the next book in the series as soon as it is out! I have to see what happens next!
January 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars
Bound Together by Ashley N. Pearce completely took me by surprise—in the best way possible. I’ve honestly never read a book quite like this before. Pearce proves herself to be a fantastic indie author with a bold, gripping voice and a story that refuses to let go once it sinks its hooks in.
From the very beginning, the world-building pulled me in, and the twists and turns kept coming when I least expected them. I was in a total chokehold the entire time—so absorbed that I forgot about everything else around me. The mix of dystopian tension, political intrigue, rebellion, and romance is incredibly well balanced, and Camille is a compelling protagonist you can’t help but root for.
Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story flipped everything upside down. And that epilogue—especially the final moments—left my jaw on the floor. I did not see that coming, and I’m still thinking about it.
If you’re looking for a dystopian novel filled with danger, emotion, and shocking twists, Bound Together is absolutely worth the read. I’m beyond excited to continue the Bound Series. An easy 5 out of 5 stars.
Bound Together by Ashley N. Pearce completely took me by surprise—in the best way possible. I’ve honestly never read a book quite like this before. Pearce proves herself to be a fantastic indie author with a bold, gripping voice and a story that refuses to let go once it sinks its hooks in.
From the very beginning, the world-building pulled me in, and the twists and turns kept coming when I least expected them. I was in a total chokehold the entire time—so absorbed that I forgot about everything else around me. The mix of dystopian tension, political intrigue, rebellion, and romance is incredibly well balanced, and Camille is a compelling protagonist you can’t help but root for.
Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story flipped everything upside down. And that epilogue—especially the final moments—left my jaw on the floor. I did not see that coming, and I’m still thinking about it.
If you’re looking for a dystopian novel filled with danger, emotion, and shocking twists, Bound Together is absolutely worth the read. I’m beyond excited to continue the Bound Series. An easy 5 out of 5 stars.
February 25, 2026
I do not read very much scifi but seem to be getting into it more lately nor do I read much dystopian. The dystopian part of this novel was minimal I felt which for worked to my preferences. I did enjoy this book and even though it ends on a cliffhanger, the cliffhanger was welcomed because I was really worried about one of the characters but the cliffhanger gave me some comfort. I’m excited to see what will come next!
April 28, 2025
Had to say, this is some thing I don’t normally read as I’m not really a science fiction or political book person but I was pleasantly surprised and cannot wait for the second book. You did a great job and the twists and turns with in the book made it one that you didn’t want to put down because you needed to know what happened. Cannot wait for for your next book.
June 17, 2026
Hi!
I loved it ! And the ending? That plot twist was really good! I bought the second one ! Can't wait to read it!
I loved it ! And the ending? That plot twist was really good! I bought the second one ! Can't wait to read it!
March 21, 2026
Excellent sci-fi romance - almost puts me in the mindset of final fantasy but more intimate! Beautifully written! Very glad I check this one out!
September 20, 2025
A must read
I found myself unable to put this story down. I needed to know, had to know what happened next. I was excited for the next page and was invested in the characters! Really excited to see what happens next!
I found myself unable to put this story down. I needed to know, had to know what happened next. I was excited for the next page and was invested in the characters! Really excited to see what happens next!
June 14, 2026
Bound Together was a one sitting read, I can not wait for the next book. The twist and turns are amazing, just when you think you are going right- bam it goes left. You grown to care about the characters- their struggles, fights and fate. Very well done, looking forward to the next!
April 3, 2025
This book was awesome! There were so many twist and turns it kept me glued to the pages. I can't wait to find out what happens next!!!
December 28, 2025
A dystopian sci-fi/romantasy set in the future where America and the world look very different from today. Each country is split off into its own planet.
Camille and her best friend, Amelia, work their way up through this new government of America, hoping to make a positive change and turn it back into the democratic society it once was. When things go awry, Camille is left wondering who she can actually trust. Although, Josiah seems to have the answers she needs, like the fact that she's the one who can save the world. But she doesn't know, in the end, if she can trust him, either.
This books is full of twists up until the very last page! And let me tell you, that last page left me wanting a whole lot more of the story!
Camille and her best friend, Amelia, work their way up through this new government of America, hoping to make a positive change and turn it back into the democratic society it once was. When things go awry, Camille is left wondering who she can actually trust. Although, Josiah seems to have the answers she needs, like the fact that she's the one who can save the world. But she doesn't know, in the end, if she can trust him, either.
This books is full of twists up until the very last page! And let me tell you, that last page left me wanting a whole lot more of the story!
October 16, 2025
Twists and Turns
Wow! This story had so many twists I didn’t see coming. It was intriguing and thought provoking. Definitely a new take on a somewhat battered concept. And the ending??? What can I say? I can’t wait for the next installment, Bond Severed! Thumbs Up!
Wow! This story had so many twists I didn’t see coming. It was intriguing and thought provoking. Definitely a new take on a somewhat battered concept. And the ending??? What can I say? I can’t wait for the next installment, Bond Severed! Thumbs Up!
June 6, 2026
LOVED THIS WORLD
Ashley managed to take me to another place. A place I can say I rarely, if ever have gone. And for that I thank her. Go ahead read the book. You won't be let down. I promise...
Ashley managed to take me to another place. A place I can say I rarely, if ever have gone. And for that I thank her. Go ahead read the book. You won't be let down. I promise...
June 22, 2026
Great book
Initially, I thought this book was going to be a usual love story, but this author fooled me & i loved every second of it .. I always imagined other species hiding among us, but to have been best friends with an evil evil parasitic alien then my Star bound lover became one yeah im definitely diving into book 2 as soon as I can poor Josiah hurry up and fight back because your brother took your girlfriend bro lol Good book guys you should buy it
Initially, I thought this book was going to be a usual love story, but this author fooled me & i loved every second of it .. I always imagined other species hiding among us, but to have been best friends with an evil evil parasitic alien then my Star bound lover became one yeah im definitely diving into book 2 as soon as I can poor Josiah hurry up and fight back because your brother took your girlfriend bro lol Good book guys you should buy it
August 6, 2025
The story is fantastic.
When you begin your journey into the narrative, it paints a very bleak picture of humanity's future. It is certainly a place I would not like to live in.
I do not want to include any spoilers, so I will just say that where this story begins is far from where it ends.
Ashley has made the characters relatable and their interactions real, so you will develop feelings for them.
Camille is a strong, cunning young lady who, in attempting to cheat a system, ends up in the thick of it all.
The narrator begins a little clunky but finds her groove.
I'm looking forward to Book 2.
When you begin your journey into the narrative, it paints a very bleak picture of humanity's future. It is certainly a place I would not like to live in.
I do not want to include any spoilers, so I will just say that where this story begins is far from where it ends.
Ashley has made the characters relatable and their interactions real, so you will develop feelings for them.
Camille is a strong, cunning young lady who, in attempting to cheat a system, ends up in the thick of it all.
The narrator begins a little clunky but finds her groove.
I'm looking forward to Book 2.
March 14, 2026
Can't wait for book 2
This was such a fun read. I loved the mix of sci-fi and fantasy elements along with the fated mates concept. The world building was really well done and the story kept pulling me deeper the more I read. It had great pacing and enough mystery to keep me turning the pages.
Ashley did a fantastic job creating a unique universe and characters that keep you invested in what happens next. If you enjoy sci-fi fantasy with strong world building and fate-driven bonds, I definitely recommend giving this one a try. I’m really looking forward to book two.
This was such a fun read. I loved the mix of sci-fi and fantasy elements along with the fated mates concept. The world building was really well done and the story kept pulling me deeper the more I read. It had great pacing and enough mystery to keep me turning the pages.
Ashley did a fantastic job creating a unique universe and characters that keep you invested in what happens next. If you enjoy sci-fi fantasy with strong world building and fate-driven bonds, I definitely recommend giving this one a try. I’m really looking forward to book two.
May 9, 2025
Super Fun read!
This was such a fun adventure! Kept me on my toes the whole book! The main character became one of my favorites within a couple pages! Her sassy sense of self was perfect for this in depth world! I’m so excited for book number 2!
This was such a fun adventure! Kept me on my toes the whole book! The main character became one of my favorites within a couple pages! Her sassy sense of self was perfect for this in depth world! I’m so excited for book number 2!
August 1, 2025
I found this author on TT, and I had to reader her book. Ashley, you had me hooked at the prologue. I couldn’t put it down. I finished it in 4.5 hours!!! It does end on a cliffhanger, but a hella good one. Amazing read! I need the next one like yesterday! 🤗
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews