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Steel & Stone #2
Bind the Soul
The first rule for an Apprentice Consul is simple: Don't get involved with daemons. Well, Piper is planning to break that rule again — big time.
After a near-deadly scandal with the Sahar Stone, she has the chance to return to the only life she's ever wanted. All she has to do to keep her Apprenticeship is forget about Ash and Lyre. Ash might be enigmatic and notoriously lethal, and Lyre might be as sinfully irresistible as he is irritating, but they’re not bad for a couple of daemons.
There's just one problem: Ash is missing.
Really, she shouldn't risk her future for him. He lied. He betrayed her. But he saved her life, damn it. Wherever he is, he's in trouble, and if she doesn't save his sorry butt, who will? But with every dangerous secret she unravels, each one darker than the last, she slips deeper into Ash's world — a world with no escape for either of them.
BIND THE SOUL is the second book in the Steel & Stone series.
After a near-deadly scandal with the Sahar Stone, she has the chance to return to the only life she's ever wanted. All she has to do to keep her Apprenticeship is forget about Ash and Lyre. Ash might be enigmatic and notoriously lethal, and Lyre might be as sinfully irresistible as he is irritating, but they’re not bad for a couple of daemons.
There's just one problem: Ash is missing.
Really, she shouldn't risk her future for him. He lied. He betrayed her. But he saved her life, damn it. Wherever he is, he's in trouble, and if she doesn't save his sorry butt, who will? But with every dangerous secret she unravels, each one darker than the last, she slips deeper into Ash's world — a world with no escape for either of them.
BIND THE SOUL is the second book in the Steel & Stone series.
304 pages, ebook
First published January 9, 2015
1111 people are currently reading
3140 people want to read
About the author
Annette Marie
50 books7,186 followersAnnette Marie is the best-selling author of over thirty books, including the expansive urban fantasy series The Guild Codex, epic urban fantasy series Steel & Stone, and romantic fantasy trilogy Red Winter.
A 2015 Goodreads Choice Awards Finalist in Fantasy and an Amazon Charts Bestseller, Annette has sold over 2 million books. Her books have been translated into French, German, Polish, Ukrainian, and Russian, with readers coming back again and again for her addictive blend of fast-paced adventure, tantalizing forbidden romance, and unforgettable characters.
Annette lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad) with her husband and their furry minions of darkness. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in her garden or an art project while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.
To find out more about Annette and her books, visit www.annettemarie.ca
A 2015 Goodreads Choice Awards Finalist in Fantasy and an Amazon Charts Bestseller, Annette has sold over 2 million books. Her books have been translated into French, German, Polish, Ukrainian, and Russian, with readers coming back again and again for her addictive blend of fast-paced adventure, tantalizing forbidden romance, and unforgettable characters.
Annette lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad) with her husband and their furry minions of darkness. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in her garden or an art project while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.
To find out more about Annette and her books, visit www.annettemarie.ca
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 582 reviews
May 11, 2017
Ashtaroth... Man I love him!! He's the main reason I continue to read this series!
January 7, 2024
First read: 03/2016 - 4 stars
Second read: 02/2021 - 4 stars
Third read: 01/2024 - still 4 stars!
Ash is gone. After all she went through, Piper would have loved some downtime, but knowing that Ash is in trouble won't let her calm down. With incubus Lyre at her side, she starts to investigate, only to be whisked away from her once peaceful life yet again.
This one was quite a bit darker than Chase the Dark, painful and even a little depressing to read at times. Good thing is, there was so much action that the dismal mood never lasted too long. We get a frighteningly sadistic villain, intense battle scenes, and a whole lot of bad-assery.
I'm still as crazy about Piper, Ash and Lyre as I was from the start, if not even more so. There are a number of new fascinating characters, of which Raum intrigued me most - I really want to know his story.
Bottom line: not quite as amazing as its prequel, but I still loved it. On to book #3!
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2024
5/1/2024: Reread. (Audiobook!)
6/9/2023: Reread. (Audiobook!)
01/03/2023: Reread. (Audiobook!)
12/13/2022: Reread. (Audiobook!)
08/16/2022: Reread. (Audiobook!)
07/22/2021: Reread. (Audiobook.)
06/06/2021: Reread. (Audiobook.)
09/23/2020: Reread. (Audiobook.)
08/30/2020: Reread! (Audiobook!)
08/26/2020: Reread! (Read to my son, Maddox.)
08/21/2020: Reread!
07/22/2020: Reread!
10/21/2019: Reread!
05/14/2019: Reread!
03/01/2019: Reread!
09/10/2018: Reread!
09/03/2018: Reread!
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ORIGINAL REVIEW
Things get so much more interesting in the second book of the Steel & Stone series!
What I liked
I loved that we delved in even more to the characters. We got to see so much more of their past and their inner selves. The character building just keeps getting better with this series!
I love how much the characters are evolving. They are becoming so much closer. We are seeing more than one side to the characters. Their relationships are sprouting into something beautiful.
I love the way that Piper and Ash are coming together. They seem so perfect for each other, and in other ways not at all. I am so curious to see what becomes of them. I am so rooting for them!
The plot is getting so complex! There are so many little things that are coming together from the first book. We are getting glimpses of things that make us see the bigger picture. The story is so well thought out and comes together nicely as the series progresses.
What I didn't like
As with the first book, I have no complaints about this book! I loved every moment!
Would I Recommend It
YES. YES. YES. Get this series now and thank me tomorrow. This series really is amazing. I haven't felt this passionate about a book or a series in a long time. I can't wait to finish the next book!
6/9/2023: Reread. (Audiobook!)
01/03/2023: Reread. (Audiobook!)
12/13/2022: Reread. (Audiobook!)
08/16/2022: Reread. (Audiobook!)
07/22/2021: Reread. (Audiobook.)
06/06/2021: Reread. (Audiobook.)
09/23/2020: Reread. (Audiobook.)
08/30/2020: Reread! (Audiobook!)
08/26/2020: Reread! (Read to my son, Maddox.)
08/21/2020: Reread!
07/22/2020: Reread!
10/21/2019: Reread!
05/14/2019: Reread!
03/01/2019: Reread!
09/10/2018: Reread!
09/03/2018: Reread!
------
ORIGINAL REVIEW
Things get so much more interesting in the second book of the Steel & Stone series!
What I liked
I loved that we delved in even more to the characters. We got to see so much more of their past and their inner selves. The character building just keeps getting better with this series!
I love how much the characters are evolving. They are becoming so much closer. We are seeing more than one side to the characters. Their relationships are sprouting into something beautiful.
I love the way that Piper and Ash are coming together. They seem so perfect for each other, and in other ways not at all. I am so curious to see what becomes of them. I am so rooting for them!
The plot is getting so complex! There are so many little things that are coming together from the first book. We are getting glimpses of things that make us see the bigger picture. The story is so well thought out and comes together nicely as the series progresses.
What I didn't like
As with the first book, I have no complaints about this book! I loved every moment!
Would I Recommend It
YES. YES. YES. Get this series now and thank me tomorrow. This series really is amazing. I haven't felt this passionate about a book or a series in a long time. I can't wait to finish the next book!
May 23, 2019
Actual Rating 2.5 stars
Entertaining but forgettable.
Chase the Dark (Steel & Stone #1) - 2.5 stars
Bind the Soul (Steel & Stone #2) - 2.5 stars
Yield the Night (Steel & Stone #3) - 2.5 stars
Reap the Shadows (Steel & Stone #4) - 2 stars
Entertaining but forgettable.
Chase the Dark (Steel & Stone #1) - 2.5 stars
Bind the Soul (Steel & Stone #2) - 2.5 stars
Yield the Night (Steel & Stone #3) - 2.5 stars
Reap the Shadows (Steel & Stone #4) - 2 stars
May 21, 2017
After loving the first book, I dug into this one right away. The sequel returns the same characters as before, but it enters the big bad that Ash was afraid of in the first book. Piper is captured and the author doesn't hold back on the dark stuff. There's some terrible stuff to endure her experiencing and seeing. The details with the rats in the prison? Yech.
While the story darkened, it lost most of its humor. The first was serious when warranted but kept some fun situations and lines that kept it enjoyable, and it would have felt out of place with the dungeon torture stuff here, but it was still missed a little. Since Lyre brought in most of the humor from the first, him being in the background for the second may explain why its missing too.
We get some pretty epic scenes with Piper and the Sahar though, especially a certain break-out, allies, and battles. There's tension and exciting stuff that kept me biting my lip. Since the author didn't shy away from the horrors, you never knew if it would keep turning out worse or if Piper would actually get a break this time when she tried to better her situation.
Miysis is shady but was addictive with his scenes, especially the escape to the party. Her father still irritates the hell out of me. Piper is sitll a bold heroine who risks all the save the one she loves when he disappears, she's still battling what she feels what are her weaknesses, and the Sahar still looms as a magic weapon everyone is looking for. What made the story so potent was some of the stand-out, well-written action scenes.
That's not to say the romance suffers much. The scenes with Ash were sweet, including the twisted and tense situation during an escape in an office. The character rocks, and I'm glad the author has shrugged off the possibility of a love triangle.
The ending was .... sad. Glad there are so many books in this excellent YA series.
While the story darkened, it lost most of its humor. The first was serious when warranted but kept some fun situations and lines that kept it enjoyable, and it would have felt out of place with the dungeon torture stuff here, but it was still missed a little. Since Lyre brought in most of the humor from the first, him being in the background for the second may explain why its missing too.
We get some pretty epic scenes with Piper and the Sahar though, especially a certain break-out, allies, and battles. There's tension and exciting stuff that kept me biting my lip. Since the author didn't shy away from the horrors, you never knew if it would keep turning out worse or if Piper would actually get a break this time when she tried to better her situation.
Miysis is shady but was addictive with his scenes, especially the escape to the party. Her father still irritates the hell out of me. Piper is sitll a bold heroine who risks all the save the one she loves when he disappears, she's still battling what she feels what are her weaknesses, and the Sahar still looms as a magic weapon everyone is looking for. What made the story so potent was some of the stand-out, well-written action scenes.
That's not to say the romance suffers much. The scenes with Ash were sweet, including the twisted and tense situation during an escape in an office. The character rocks, and I'm glad the author has shrugged off the possibility of a love triangle.
The ending was .... sad. Glad there are so many books in this excellent YA series.
January 27, 2018
Third reread: July 24-25. Ash speaking softly is my weakness.
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First read this Sept. 6-7, 2015. Reread this Feb. 19, 2016. My old review still stands. And again, I liked it better the second time around.
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Liked this one waaaaay more than the first. The author definitely knows how to write swoony moments. Piper and Ash just gave me so many happy feels; they make me so giddy and aaaah.
This book definitely had higher stakes than the first, and I loved it. Although I can't really tell whether or not I like Piper, I do admire her strength and need to protect and save Ash. She endured a lot in this book—some of it made me so angry, some of it made me cringe.
What I was hoping to see was how Ash reacted after the end of book one, more specifically, what had happened while he was where he was. I expected him to seem haunted and some kinda PTSD. But I guess if he'd gone through something like that before.... Sigh.
Anyway! 4 stars. Can't wait to see what happens next.
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First read this Sept. 6-7, 2015. Reread this Feb. 19, 2016. My old review still stands. And again, I liked it better the second time around.
----
Liked this one waaaaay more than the first. The author definitely knows how to write swoony moments. Piper and Ash just gave me so many happy feels; they make me so giddy and aaaah.
This book definitely had higher stakes than the first, and I loved it. Although I can't really tell whether or not I like Piper, I do admire her strength and need to protect and save Ash. She endured a lot in this book—some of it made me so angry, some of it made me cringe.
What I was hoping to see was how Ash reacted after the end of book one, more specifically, what had happened while he was where he was. I expected him to seem haunted and some kinda PTSD. But I guess if he'd gone through something like that before.... Sigh.
Anyway! 4 stars. Can't wait to see what happens next.
Read
March 9, 2016Another fantastic book, this series is only getting better right now! I'm currently writing all my reviews for this series so far so I'll have them all up shortly!!
January 13, 2015
4.5 to 5 Stars!
The second instalment of Steel & Stone series.
Piper’s story continuous with more of her breaking the rules to becoming an Apprentice Consul. Atta girl! ;)
After surviving the whole Sahar incident in the first book, we also learned that Ash, the hot and mysterious draconian daemon, is missing. Piper, knowing Ash is definitely in trouble... will do everything to bring him back. Well, Ash did, in fact, saved her life numerous times. And who could forget their epic kiss?! That was one my top most favourite scene in the first book.
So….. with Lyre’s help, Piper's mission is to find Ash and save him wherever he may be. And we all know the most likely place where Ash would be… That would be with Samael, the ruthless warlord of the Hades in the underworld!
Once again, Ms. Annette Marie takes us to another heart pumping, action-packed, fast-paced, mind numbing, romantic and fun adventure! It was easy to be caught up in the story, besides the most excellent writing, and the unique and fabulous storyline, I really didn’t have to wait long for the sequel to come out. Kudos to the author for not making her fans wait too long. ;)
All the lead characters in this series are adorable!
I get to know more about Ash. If I loved him in the first book, I love him even more so here. Although, Piper and Ash were not able to top that unforgettable epic kiss, they did still have their moments, yes I said moments with an “s”! And I find it just as hot and intense! ;) I do want more of that… well, who wouldn’t! I love Ash and Piper together obviously! And no, there is no love triangle. ;)
Piper is one of my favourite book heroine. She is fun, sweet, adorable, brave and she kicks ass!
Lyre, with what scenes he had here, is still ever so charming and funny.
There were dark scenes…. there were surprises… and some stressful ones… But, all of that could not compete to that very intense and stunning climatic action scene in the end.
I loved how it ended, it does go so fast… I am dying to read the next book, just dying.
I am curious about Raum. He is also a draconian like Ash, but he is mighty loyal to Samael. I’m curious about Seiya too. I thought she would make an awesome heroine too! Hint hint? :D
The second instalment of Steel & Stone series.
Piper’s story continuous with more of her breaking the rules to becoming an Apprentice Consul. Atta girl! ;)
After surviving the whole Sahar incident in the first book, we also learned that Ash, the hot and mysterious draconian daemon, is missing. Piper, knowing Ash is definitely in trouble... will do everything to bring him back. Well, Ash did, in fact, saved her life numerous times. And who could forget their epic kiss?! That was one my top most favourite scene in the first book.
So….. with Lyre’s help, Piper's mission is to find Ash and save him wherever he may be. And we all know the most likely place where Ash would be… That would be with Samael, the ruthless warlord of the Hades in the underworld!
Once again, Ms. Annette Marie takes us to another heart pumping, action-packed, fast-paced, mind numbing, romantic and fun adventure! It was easy to be caught up in the story, besides the most excellent writing, and the unique and fabulous storyline, I really didn’t have to wait long for the sequel to come out. Kudos to the author for not making her fans wait too long. ;)
All the lead characters in this series are adorable!
I get to know more about Ash. If I loved him in the first book, I love him even more so here. Although, Piper and Ash were not able to top that unforgettable epic kiss, they did still have their moments, yes I said moments with an “s”! And I find it just as hot and intense! ;) I do want more of that… well, who wouldn’t! I love Ash and Piper together obviously! And no, there is no love triangle. ;)
Piper is one of my favourite book heroine. She is fun, sweet, adorable, brave and she kicks ass!
Lyre, with what scenes he had here, is still ever so charming and funny.
There were dark scenes…. there were surprises… and some stressful ones… But, all of that could not compete to that very intense and stunning climatic action scene in the end.
I loved how it ended, it does go so fast… I am dying to read the next book, just dying.
I am curious about Raum. He is also a draconian like Ash, but he is mighty loyal to Samael. I’m curious about Seiya too. I thought she would make an awesome heroine too! Hint hint? :D
October 24, 2019
Great series
August 23, 2017
5 stars
Omg
This book actually gave me a damn heart attack
RTC....I gotta start book 3 now
Omg
This book actually gave me a damn heart attack
RTC....I gotta start book 3 now
April 18, 2019
Starting the next one asap.
I'm really liking these books.
I'm really liking these books.
December 1, 2015
Original Post: Bind the Soul at FLYLēF (www.flylef.com)
WITH THE SCANDAL of the Sahar Stone behind her and her innocence proven, Piper has never been more terrified. For unknowingly, she used the power of the Sahar Stone – the only person to have done so in over 500 years. This news rocks the daemon world and Piper finds herself the target of her worst nightmare in Bind the Soul (Steel and Stone 2) by Annette Marie.
Samael, head warlord of the Underworld, kidnaps Piper. His light cruelty brings an emotional denseness to this story. He breaks her physically and mentally until the only emotions left in Piper are fear and desperation. I love her character even more because despite her own precarious situation, she never looses sight of her own motives – she’s really biding her time to escape and search for a certain draconian.
Ash is missing. Wherever he is, he’s in trouble. And regardless of how he may have betrayed Piper, he’s also the one person who almost died saving her. Now she must save him, or die trying. But with every step closer to finding Ash, she unravels the truth behind his mysterious and misunderstood exterior. The walls she resurrected around her heart crumbles piece by piece, as she slips further and further into his dangerous world – a world she may never be able to return from.
Bind the Soul is an action-packed and emotional-charged sequel with a bittersweet ending. Yes, the bad guys were barely held at bay; but it didn’t quite feel like a victory for the good guys either…not where the heart is concerned, anyways. The story ends on a surprisingly sweet and sentimental promise no doubt to be fulfilled in Yield the Night (Steel and Stone 3). I’m looking forward to it.
August 26, 2018
Complete guilty pleasure reading books like this at my age! This really appeals to my Inner Teenager. I was glad to have less Lyre. Plenty of action and world building. We find out more about the Sahar, its history and why Piper is able to use it. Piper is an interesting character. I like the fact that even tho she has no magic, she has never given up on being a Consul. And Ash. He’s a pretty hot love interest for her.
December 16, 2019
Much like the previous book, Bind the Soul was an enjoyable read with exciting action, interesting (even if sometimes predictable) twists, and even the occasional swoon-worthy romantic moment.
I liked getting to visit a different world as well as being introduced to some new characters. There were a few times where the story ventured into some darker territory than had been featured before - mostly involving physical/mental torture. Thankfully this didn't last the whole time and the focus returned to the action/adventure that I've come to expect from this series.
While I still have some questions regarding the human world and its current condition - which is apparently post-World War Three - I appreciated the creativity behind the daemon mythology/history and how past events are impacting the present situation. Once again, relaying this information often slowed down the general pacing of the book, but I still applaud the author's efforts.
On its own, this book isn't all that satisfying as the overall plot doesn't really progress much. However, I like how it continues the story from Chase the Dark and I anticipate the next installment will further elaborate on the developments made in this one.
I liked getting to visit a different world as well as being introduced to some new characters. There were a few times where the story ventured into some darker territory than had been featured before - mostly involving physical/mental torture. Thankfully this didn't last the whole time and the focus returned to the action/adventure that I've come to expect from this series.
While I still have some questions regarding the human world and its current condition - which is apparently post-World War Three - I appreciated the creativity behind the daemon mythology/history and how past events are impacting the present situation. Once again, relaying this information often slowed down the general pacing of the book, but I still applaud the author's efforts.
On its own, this book isn't all that satisfying as the overall plot doesn't really progress much. However, I like how it continues the story from Chase the Dark and I anticipate the next installment will further elaborate on the developments made in this one.
May 23, 2020
Buddy read. 4,5 stars.
Never a dull moment! Onto the next now!
Never a dull moment! Onto the next now!
August 28, 2018
”All bets were off.”
This was definitely an improvement from Chase the dark!
We get to know the characters more and my shipper heart is both happy and sad.
Still not as good as the Red winter trilogy, tho.
This was definitely an improvement from Chase the dark!
We get to know the characters more and my shipper heart is both happy and sad.
Still not as good as the Red winter trilogy, tho.
January 2, 2019
~*Check out my blog over at The Bent Bookworm!*~
If you haven't read the first in the series, I highly recommend it and you can check out my review right here. That review is spoiler free, but THIS review may contain spoilers for the first book!
Bind the Soul picks up right where Chase the Dark (Steel & Stone #1) left off. Piper is back home at the consulate, and Ash is gone. Lyle has spent weeks searching for him and only has the barest of information. Piper knows that Ash is a big boy and can take care of himself...but she also knows he sacrificed a lot for her, and that despite his own power seemed genuinely afraid of whoever - whatever - holds sway over him. To help him would mean defying her father AGAIN, risking her own safety (since she still has no idea how she managed to use the Sahar), and plunging into Hades itself...and the choice may not be hers to make.
Phew! This book took a really dark turn. There are some torture scenes that left my heart racing. I was so very emotionally invested in these characters. I'm also Team Ash ALL THE WAY, I don't care what anyone says. I love anti-heroes in general, and as a love interest he is just so swoonworthy (is that a word? it should be).
There is SO MUCH going on here. The upper and lower daemons are still trying to get their hands on the Sahar, which has so very inconveniently become attached to Piper. Piper just wants to prevent world destruction, and get Ash back. And become a consul, which means never becoming involved with Ash, or Lyre, or any other daemon.
Riiiiight.
How's that working out for ya, my girl?
The pace of this book is fast and furious as our lovelies escape and re-escape and try to stay one step ahead of the Father of All Nasties, a.k.a. the very sadistic Samael. Every time I thought they might get a breather - whoops, just kidding! Here's another nasty punch to brighten your day. It just kept going and going and I absolutely loved it. There are also a couple of new characters introduced that I really hope will be in the rest of the books, as their stories seem like they would be absolutely fascinating. Also, ahem, can someone please introduce a love interest for Lyle so that I can stop fretting over it?
There are some absolutely heart-melting scenes spaced in between all the action. Ash and Piper have such incredible chemistry and yet they both seem convinced they can't be together (trope-y, yes, but it works). Rational thought never keeps sparks from flying though, and it doesn't keep traitorous hearts from caring when the mind would rather not.
One thing that really bothered me throughout the first half of this book was how Piper seemed to have regressed in maturity. This series is marketed as YA, I understand that. However, the first book was really not very YA in tone or content, at all. Piper is supposed to be seventeen, but she acts more like someone in their early twenties. So, I expected this one to be the same and it wasn't quite. The last half it was back to the old Piper. It was rather frustrating, but oh well. It was only mildly distracting.
Piper's parentage and inherited (or not) magic still isn't explained and I am absolutely dying of curiosity. I feel like there must be SOMETHING there or else she wouldn't have been able to connect with the Sahar the way she did, but that part wasn't delved into much at all in this book.
Overall 4/5 stars, highly, HIGHLY recommend! This is an awesome futuristic fantasy series with characters you can really get behind. I am SO READY to dive into the third book!
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If you haven't read the first in the series, I highly recommend it and you can check out my review right here. That review is spoiler free, but THIS review may contain spoilers for the first book!
Bind the Soul picks up right where Chase the Dark (Steel & Stone #1) left off. Piper is back home at the consulate, and Ash is gone. Lyle has spent weeks searching for him and only has the barest of information. Piper knows that Ash is a big boy and can take care of himself...but she also knows he sacrificed a lot for her, and that despite his own power seemed genuinely afraid of whoever - whatever - holds sway over him. To help him would mean defying her father AGAIN, risking her own safety (since she still has no idea how she managed to use the Sahar), and plunging into Hades itself...and the choice may not be hers to make.
"Death is easy. Living is difficult."
Phew! This book took a really dark turn. There are some torture scenes that left my heart racing. I was so very emotionally invested in these characters. I'm also Team Ash ALL THE WAY, I don't care what anyone says. I love anti-heroes in general, and as a love interest he is just so swoonworthy (is that a word? it should be).
There is SO MUCH going on here. The upper and lower daemons are still trying to get their hands on the Sahar, which has so very inconveniently become attached to Piper. Piper just wants to prevent world destruction, and get Ash back. And become a consul, which means never becoming involved with Ash, or Lyre, or any other daemon.
Riiiiight.
How's that working out for ya, my girl?
The pace of this book is fast and furious as our lovelies escape and re-escape and try to stay one step ahead of the Father of All Nasties, a.k.a. the very sadistic Samael. Every time I thought they might get a breather - whoops, just kidding! Here's another nasty punch to brighten your day. It just kept going and going and I absolutely loved it. There are also a couple of new characters introduced that I really hope will be in the rest of the books, as their stories seem like they would be absolutely fascinating. Also, ahem, can someone please introduce a love interest for Lyle so that I can stop fretting over it?
There are some absolutely heart-melting scenes spaced in between all the action. Ash and Piper have such incredible chemistry and yet they both seem convinced they can't be together (trope-y, yes, but it works). Rational thought never keeps sparks from flying though, and it doesn't keep traitorous hearts from caring when the mind would rather not.
She lifted her face, met his eyes - and saw his soul beneath the black. "Kill that bastard," she whispered.
One thing that really bothered me throughout the first half of this book was how Piper seemed to have regressed in maturity. This series is marketed as YA, I understand that. However, the first book was really not very YA in tone or content, at all. Piper is supposed to be seventeen, but she acts more like someone in their early twenties. So, I expected this one to be the same and it wasn't quite. The last half it was back to the old Piper. It was rather frustrating, but oh well. It was only mildly distracting.
Piper's parentage and inherited (or not) magic still isn't explained and I am absolutely dying of curiosity. I feel like there must be SOMETHING there or else she wouldn't have been able to connect with the Sahar the way she did, but that part wasn't delved into much at all in this book.
Overall 4/5 stars, highly, HIGHLY recommend! This is an awesome futuristic fantasy series with characters you can really get behind. I am SO READY to dive into the third book!
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July 27, 2016
Thank you Netgalley for providing me this book in exchange of an honest review
Exact rating: 3.5 :D
Okay how do I start, this book picked up exactly where it left in Chase the Dark, after saving the Sahar Stone on the first book we learnt that Ash went missing. Piper knowing he must be in trouble, with the help of Lyre they set off to find him even if it means going to the one place dangerous and impossible place to be - the underworld where Samael Ash sire is. Once again Ms. Annette Marie did an amazing job in this book, as I'm not the biggest fan of paranormal or urban fantasy I find this book surprisingly a fun and entertaining read.
The plot was stunningly written, there is not much to say but that it was fun exhilarating that kept me on the edge of my seat most of time. Also this book is a lot faster paced than the first one, from times to times I'll find myself afraid of what's going to happen next as I have completely no idea where the plot is going. As for the writing style, is fluent and easy to read. However there is lack of real depth and it could be more beautifully written.
The characters in this book, was what I appreciate most in this book. Piper our female lead, is so much more kickass than in the first book. The character development was spot on, she became more mature and powerful both mentally and physically. As for Ash we gotten to known him even more in this book, what lays beneath the mysterious eyes of his. Though I won't say I absolutely love him, but he is indeed admirable. His willpower and strength is amazing, how he could go through so much pain yet remain himself was amazingly shocking. As for Lyre well he is still being incredibly sexy and extremely sweet and charming, though I won't say he takes up a huge part is thing story but whenever he's around the mood definitely be lighten up. THERE IS NO LOVE TRIANGLE BTW.
Apart from the main leads, there were a few new characters introduced.
Samael: The horrible villain that everyone is indeed intrigued but hates him. He is extremely evil and he is willingly do anything to suffer someone he despites, with his good manners it make him even more scarier. What I appreciate most about him is that he is not devastingly handsome like normal Ya paranormals and he is indeed creepy.
Raum: A Draconian under Samael, Raum is a character with a certain depth that got me into wondering what had he been through. Though as said he is phenomenally loyal to Samael but with Piper he did show some of his softer sides. Making me captivated by him.
Miysis: As most heirs is, he could be helpful if he want but most of the time stupid and reckless. Well in this book we got to see him a lot more. I only have an okay feeling for him, he could be really powerful and all but comparing to Ash well he is just there.
Lilith: Comparing to the first book, I relatively like her more in this book though she only appeared in one scene she indeed had help Piper.
Micah: Well I hate that guy so much, he is just as evil as Samael. He gets no better in this book. Being annoying as a Villain should be.
Quinn: This father of Piper, I really dislike him. As he constantly misjudge situations, jumping into conclusions with all that I wonder how could he even be the Consul's head.
Overall I really did enjoy this book, it's an amazing urban // paranormal read that I highly recommend to read especially if having a reading slump :DD
Exact rating: 3.5 :D
Okay how do I start, this book picked up exactly where it left in Chase the Dark, after saving the Sahar Stone on the first book we learnt that Ash went missing. Piper knowing he must be in trouble, with the help of Lyre they set off to find him even if it means going to the one place dangerous and impossible place to be - the underworld where Samael Ash sire is. Once again Ms. Annette Marie did an amazing job in this book, as I'm not the biggest fan of paranormal or urban fantasy I find this book surprisingly a fun and entertaining read.
The plot was stunningly written, there is not much to say but that it was fun exhilarating that kept me on the edge of my seat most of time. Also this book is a lot faster paced than the first one, from times to times I'll find myself afraid of what's going to happen next as I have completely no idea where the plot is going. As for the writing style, is fluent and easy to read. However there is lack of real depth and it could be more beautifully written.
The characters in this book, was what I appreciate most in this book. Piper our female lead, is so much more kickass than in the first book. The character development was spot on, she became more mature and powerful both mentally and physically. As for Ash we gotten to known him even more in this book, what lays beneath the mysterious eyes of his. Though I won't say I absolutely love him, but he is indeed admirable. His willpower and strength is amazing, how he could go through so much pain yet remain himself was amazingly shocking. As for Lyre well he is still being incredibly sexy and extremely sweet and charming, though I won't say he takes up a huge part is thing story but whenever he's around the mood definitely be lighten up. THERE IS NO LOVE TRIANGLE BTW.
Apart from the main leads, there were a few new characters introduced.
Samael: The horrible villain that everyone is indeed intrigued but hates him. He is extremely evil and he is willingly do anything to suffer someone he despites, with his good manners it make him even more scarier. What I appreciate most about him is that he is not devastingly handsome like normal Ya paranormals and he is indeed creepy.
Raum: A Draconian under Samael, Raum is a character with a certain depth that got me into wondering what had he been through. Though as said he is phenomenally loyal to Samael but with Piper he did show some of his softer sides. Making me captivated by him.
Miysis: As most heirs is, he could be helpful if he want but most of the time stupid and reckless. Well in this book we got to see him a lot more. I only have an okay feeling for him, he could be really powerful and all but comparing to Ash well he is just there.
Lilith: Comparing to the first book, I relatively like her more in this book though she only appeared in one scene she indeed had help Piper.
Micah: Well I hate that guy so much, he is just as evil as Samael. He gets no better in this book. Being annoying as a Villain should be.
Quinn: This father of Piper, I really dislike him. As he constantly misjudge situations, jumping into conclusions with all that I wonder how could he even be the Consul's head.
Overall I really did enjoy this book, it's an amazing urban // paranormal read that I highly recommend to read especially if having a reading slump :DD
January 16, 2019
I'm going to take a step back from this series for the time being. My love for the Red Winter trilogy is warring with my slight indifference for this series. I still didn't like it and there's nothing per se that I can put my hand on. It just bored me.I want to know what happens to Ash and Piper but I'm not in a hurry or even interested in reading to find out.
Will pick up this series at another time.
Will pick up this series at another time.
January 11, 2015
read it in on session. No stopping possible when you start this one!
January 9, 2019
DNF.
Sorry but just wasn’t in it. I was really hoping to like it since the "Red Winter" trilogy is my favorite books but this one wasn’t for me :(
Sorry but just wasn’t in it. I was really hoping to like it since the "Red Winter" trilogy is my favorite books but this one wasn’t for me :(
February 16, 2015
Not For Me
I expected more out of this series. Out of Piper. First this story is just so depressing. Its nothing but terrible events one after another. Theres no hope. No light at the end of the tunnel. Piper is quite foolish and makes head shaking mistakes. At first I thought Piper would be a strong character. Shes just a one trick pony. Without the stone shes just a victim. For me characters that need supporting cast to fight for them are just boring.
I expected more out of this series. Out of Piper. First this story is just so depressing. Its nothing but terrible events one after another. Theres no hope. No light at the end of the tunnel. Piper is quite foolish and makes head shaking mistakes. At first I thought Piper would be a strong character. Shes just a one trick pony. Without the stone shes just a victim. For me characters that need supporting cast to fight for them are just boring.
April 10, 2017
Even better than the first! Finally some Piper and Ash action! :) This one is even more dark and violent than the first. It is mainly based on the Sahar, and it was cool to learn about the past and fill in a few gaps in the story. What I love most about this story is the nonstop action. Poor Piper never seemed to catch a break. After things start to look good, something happens that ruins it all!
I love Piper's will and determination to save Ash from Samuel's wrath, but come on, does she always have to save the day? Heck I'm all for kicking deamon ass and helping her friends, but a girl has got to be rescued every once and awhile too right? I guess I liked seeing Ash in his full on deamon fighting mode. Ash and little Zwi still remain my favorite characters! We will see where the story takes us in book three.
A few of my favorite quotes:
"I don't want to die,"
"Death is easy. Living is difficult."
"Are you injured?" the draconian asked the other two daemons.
"We'll live," on replied. "She fights like a damn sphinx."
Insult briefly flared through the fog. Hadn't she beaten a sphinx? They weren't that tough.
"Look, Lyre. I'm not going to sleep with you, okay? I'm never going to sleep with you. Daemons are off my radar entirely. You're wasting your efforts on me.
"Piper, I'm not sitting here because I'm angling for a score. And don't think I take it personally that you keep saying no-- even though I know you want to say yes."
"You're never going to stop?"
Can't do it. Might as well ask me to stop breathing."
"You cannot compare your sex drive to breathing--"
"Piper, you're so naive sometimes."
"I am not."
"You are. Ash will always be a deadly predator, Miysis will always be a manipulative tyrant, and I will always crave sex with any moderately young, moderately female I spot. It's our natures."
"I'll be ready. Just get me on that damn list."
He smiled easily, "Don't worry I never disappoint a lady."
She nodded politely, gritting her teeth. Was Miysis flirting with her too? She needed an 'I don't date daemons' button.
"Neither do I," Lyre added suggestively confirming her interpretation of Miysis's remark. The incubus purposefully brushed against her as he passed. She sighed. A bright red button. In the shape of a stop sign.
"You are to the Sahar what a gun is to a bullet. The bullet is what kills people but its powerless without the gun. Samuel will hold you close as his most prized possession. You will be his ultimate weapon. You can wield the Sahar, the only one who can. If he can't use it, then he will train you to use it. he will torment and torture you until you are as obedient a slave as Raum, only a hundred times more powerful than any draconian."
I love Piper's will and determination to save Ash from Samuel's wrath, but come on, does she always have to save the day? Heck I'm all for kicking deamon ass and helping her friends, but a girl has got to be rescued every once and awhile too right? I guess I liked seeing Ash in his full on deamon fighting mode. Ash and little Zwi still remain my favorite characters! We will see where the story takes us in book three.
A few of my favorite quotes:
"I don't want to die,"
"Death is easy. Living is difficult."
"Are you injured?" the draconian asked the other two daemons.
"We'll live," on replied. "She fights like a damn sphinx."
Insult briefly flared through the fog. Hadn't she beaten a sphinx? They weren't that tough.
"Look, Lyre. I'm not going to sleep with you, okay? I'm never going to sleep with you. Daemons are off my radar entirely. You're wasting your efforts on me.
"Piper, I'm not sitting here because I'm angling for a score. And don't think I take it personally that you keep saying no-- even though I know you want to say yes."
"You're never going to stop?"
Can't do it. Might as well ask me to stop breathing."
"You cannot compare your sex drive to breathing--"
"Piper, you're so naive sometimes."
"I am not."
"You are. Ash will always be a deadly predator, Miysis will always be a manipulative tyrant, and I will always crave sex with any moderately young, moderately female I spot. It's our natures."
"I'll be ready. Just get me on that damn list."
He smiled easily, "Don't worry I never disappoint a lady."
She nodded politely, gritting her teeth. Was Miysis flirting with her too? She needed an 'I don't date daemons' button.
"Neither do I," Lyre added suggestively confirming her interpretation of Miysis's remark. The incubus purposefully brushed against her as he passed. She sighed. A bright red button. In the shape of a stop sign.
"You are to the Sahar what a gun is to a bullet. The bullet is what kills people but its powerless without the gun. Samuel will hold you close as his most prized possession. You will be his ultimate weapon. You can wield the Sahar, the only one who can. If he can't use it, then he will train you to use it. he will torment and torture you until you are as obedient a slave as Raum, only a hundred times more powerful than any draconian."
November 8, 2019
Ahhhhhh! Everytime I get into this book and think it's pretty good something irritating happens!
The ending of this book, and the set up for book 3, just annoyed me so much.
I don't know. Piper does some pretty stupid things, but I mostly like her. I love her and Ash, and that is pretty much my sole motivation for reading this. But then the set up for next book just seems to have more bullshit reasons for her to not go with him.
I don't care how fancy pants the security is. A fucking HUMAN school iant going to protect you from a demon you silly girl.
I'm eye rolling so hard right now.
I'll probably read some reviews of the third, to see how much is in a bloody school (how tedious) but I might just be done with this series.
The ending of this book, and the set up for book 3, just annoyed me so much.
I don't know. Piper does some pretty stupid things, but I mostly like her. I love her and Ash, and that is pretty much my sole motivation for reading this. But then the set up for next book just seems to have more bullshit reasons for her to not go with him.
I don't care how fancy pants the security is. A fucking HUMAN school iant going to protect you from a demon you silly girl.
I'm eye rolling so hard right now.
I'll probably read some reviews of the third, to see how much is in a bloody school (how tedious) but I might just be done with this series.
May 26, 2019
I just can't go on.
Frankly, I can't even believe I finished this book.
The heroine, Piper, gets stupider every page. It's utterly unbelievable. And at the end, when she decided she'd be safe heading off to boarding school...after just surviving an attack where the evil warlord brought an ARMY to attack a consulate to get her...I just laughed uncontrollably.
This is where the series and I part ways. I like Ash well enough, but Piper is unsalvageable and I'm just rooting for her horrible death now.
Lol, a boarding school. I'm still laughing.
Frankly, I can't even believe I finished this book.
The heroine, Piper, gets stupider every page. It's utterly unbelievable. And at the end, when she decided she'd be safe heading off to boarding school...after just surviving an attack where the evil warlord brought an ARMY to attack a consulate to get her...I just laughed uncontrollably.
This is where the series and I part ways. I like Ash well enough, but Piper is unsalvageable and I'm just rooting for her horrible death now.
Lol, a boarding school. I'm still laughing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2017
This is really a great second installment. I loved seeing more of the Underworld and learning more about the daemons. I also liked getting some backstory on the Sahar stone. It was fun to see more from the characters, and getting more from characters I wasn't expecting like Miysis. There's more action and higher stakes that make your devour the book, and I can't wait to see what happens next!
May 9, 2016
4.5 stars
I'm pretty much obsessed with Ash <3 Love the guy!
I'm pretty much obsessed with Ash <3 Love the guy!
September 5, 2020
buddy read with diana ;)
ahhh more Ash and Piper smut so yay! on with the next book!
ahhh more Ash and Piper smut so yay! on with the next book!
November 28, 2025
The first time I read this book I remember I devoured it all in one sitting and the second time really didn't take that much longer - I just had far less reading time available (big sads).
Bind the Soul is the second book in the Steel and Stone universe and continues almost exactly where the first book left off - Ash is missing and they believe that he has gone back to Samael in the Underworld. Why on Earth anyone would want to go back to the cruel Hades overlord - only Ash knows, and Piper and Lyre are determined to find out.
This one ratcheted up the intensity and I struggled to stop reading for any reason. Who needs sleep? Who needs to function during daytime hours? Who needs to cook dinner? Apparently none of these is me.
Once again we have Piper - our young, sassy, resilient haemon who also happens to be completely magicless, but this does not make her defenseless by any means - Annette Marie excels at showing us that our heroines don't have to have magical powers to kick ass.
Lyre's character seemed to take a bit of a backseat here to Ash as we learned more about the backstory of my favourite draconian, but I still love that incubus with all my heart. Both of these daemons are particularly swoonworthy and in this book we get to see Ash with all his vulnerabilities on display which actually just makes him that much more appealing.
The forbidden romance aspect is definitely one of my favourites and wow, does Annette Marie write it well. I totally ship all the ships she writes.
There wasn't as many laugh out loud moments that I experienced in the first book, but Bind the Soul took us to a grittier part of the overall plot arc and I appreciated that the stakes were raised so much.
An exhilarating and solid second book in a really wonderful series Itotally fangirl, scream and shove this book in your face urge everyone I know to give these books a try!
Bind the Soul is the second book in the Steel and Stone universe and continues almost exactly where the first book left off - Ash is missing and they believe that he has gone back to Samael in the Underworld. Why on Earth anyone would want to go back to the cruel Hades overlord - only Ash knows, and Piper and Lyre are determined to find out.
This one ratcheted up the intensity and I struggled to stop reading for any reason. Who needs sleep? Who needs to function during daytime hours? Who needs to cook dinner? Apparently none of these is me.
Once again we have Piper - our young, sassy, resilient haemon who also happens to be completely magicless, but this does not make her defenseless by any means - Annette Marie excels at showing us that our heroines don't have to have magical powers to kick ass.
Lyre's character seemed to take a bit of a backseat here to Ash as we learned more about the backstory of my favourite draconian, but I still love that incubus with all my heart. Both of these daemons are particularly swoonworthy and in this book we get to see Ash with all his vulnerabilities on display which actually just makes him that much more appealing.
The forbidden romance aspect is definitely one of my favourites and wow, does Annette Marie write it well. I totally ship all the ships she writes.
There wasn't as many laugh out loud moments that I experienced in the first book, but Bind the Soul took us to a grittier part of the overall plot arc and I appreciated that the stakes were raised so much.
She swallowed, her mouth dry as dust. “I don’t want to die.” His expression didn’t soften. “Death is easy. Living is difficult.”
An exhilarating and solid second book in a really wonderful series I
February 21, 2015
I got a copy of this book to review through NetGalley. I absolutely loved the first book in this series. The third book, Yield the Night, is scheduled to release the end of March 2015. This was an absolutely wonderful continuation of this series. I love this world and these characters. The plot is action packed, this is quickly becoming one of my absolute favorite urban fantasy series.
Ash is missing and Piper suspects he has returned to the Underworld to the evil Samael. Piper and Lyre are determined to find Ash and bring him back. However, the last thing Piper needs is more scandal. If she wants to keep her Apprenticeship at the Consul, she has to keep her head down. When Samael finds out that Piper was able to use the Sahar Stone all bets are off, now Piper may be journeying to the Underworld whether she wants to or not.
These books are quick reads, but there is a great story here along with incredibly engaging characters. The action scenes throughout this book are amazingly well written and there is a ton of action. I loved learning about the different kinds of daemons and really enjoyed the tension between Lyre and Piper and Ash.
In this book we finally meet Samael and he is one evil son of a gun. Additionally we meet someone in Ash’s family that is pretty darn awesome too.
This series has just been such a fun read. It is a wonderful balance of action, engaging characters, world-building, and romance. These books are well written, easy to read, completely engrossing and just so much fun. I can't wait to read more about Piper in her future adventures.
Overall this is becoming one of my favorite urban fantasy series, it is just so much fun to read. I absolutely adore the characters, love the adrenaline packed action, and am intrigued by the world. This whole series is highly recommended to those who love urban fantasy. I have already preordered the third book in the series, Yield the Night, which is supposed to release the end of March.
Ash is missing and Piper suspects he has returned to the Underworld to the evil Samael. Piper and Lyre are determined to find Ash and bring him back. However, the last thing Piper needs is more scandal. If she wants to keep her Apprenticeship at the Consul, she has to keep her head down. When Samael finds out that Piper was able to use the Sahar Stone all bets are off, now Piper may be journeying to the Underworld whether she wants to or not.
These books are quick reads, but there is a great story here along with incredibly engaging characters. The action scenes throughout this book are amazingly well written and there is a ton of action. I loved learning about the different kinds of daemons and really enjoyed the tension between Lyre and Piper and Ash.
In this book we finally meet Samael and he is one evil son of a gun. Additionally we meet someone in Ash’s family that is pretty darn awesome too.
This series has just been such a fun read. It is a wonderful balance of action, engaging characters, world-building, and romance. These books are well written, easy to read, completely engrossing and just so much fun. I can't wait to read more about Piper in her future adventures.
Overall this is becoming one of my favorite urban fantasy series, it is just so much fun to read. I absolutely adore the characters, love the adrenaline packed action, and am intrigued by the world. This whole series is highly recommended to those who love urban fantasy. I have already preordered the third book in the series, Yield the Night, which is supposed to release the end of March.
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