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Sweet witch Ruby Waterstone would do anything to protect her town—even open a portal and offer herself to a Skullstalker, a benevolent monster who lures lost travelers into his shadowy void to be devoured.
But the void she steps into is shockingly beautiful despite its darkness. The Skullstalker is even more so.
Ruby finds herself reluctantly charmed—even after the mysterious Skullstalker reveals what she must do to protect her town.
—
Slate is too busy sleeping away the centuries to concern himself with mortal affairs. That is, until a stray witch appears in his void, begging him to fix the failing ward protecting her town. In return, she will give him whatever he wants.
Unbeknownst to her, the ward can only be replenished by a mating ritual. And Skullstalkers can't mate with mortals without practice. Thorough, repeated practice.
But it's not as if he's confining her to his nest. There’s a sinister reason the ward is failing, and they must venture deep into his void to find it.
Both are surprised to discover how much Ruby thrives in his dark realm. As they get closer to fulfilling the ritual, Slate starts to realize what he wants from her when all this is
Her heart.
—
BOUND is a high heat monster romance with smutty magic rituals, surprisingly comfortable monster nests, and a HEA. Perfect for fans of Opal Reyne and Katee Robert. It can be read as a standalone.
But the void she steps into is shockingly beautiful despite its darkness. The Skullstalker is even more so.
Ruby finds herself reluctantly charmed—even after the mysterious Skullstalker reveals what she must do to protect her town.
—
Slate is too busy sleeping away the centuries to concern himself with mortal affairs. That is, until a stray witch appears in his void, begging him to fix the failing ward protecting her town. In return, she will give him whatever he wants.
Unbeknownst to her, the ward can only be replenished by a mating ritual. And Skullstalkers can't mate with mortals without practice. Thorough, repeated practice.
But it's not as if he's confining her to his nest. There’s a sinister reason the ward is failing, and they must venture deep into his void to find it.
Both are surprised to discover how much Ruby thrives in his dark realm. As they get closer to fulfilling the ritual, Slate starts to realize what he wants from her when all this is
Her heart.
—
BOUND is a high heat monster romance with smutty magic rituals, surprisingly comfortable monster nests, and a HEA. Perfect for fans of Opal Reyne and Katee Robert. It can be read as a standalone.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 15, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
July 8, 2025
3/5 ⭐️
Bound has barely any plot but it was cute
Slate is just an adorable monster and Ruby is just h o r n y af 😂😂😂
Bound has barely any plot but it was cute
Slate is just an adorable monster and Ruby is just h o r n y af 😂😂😂
June 26, 2025
Just no
I didn't even make it 15% before giving up. And that was after a double strain from my eyes rolling so hard. It starts off as the plot of another author and devolves from there.
I didn't even make it 15% before giving up. And that was after a double strain from my eyes rolling so hard. It starts off as the plot of another author and devolves from there.
September 3, 2025
Tell me this isn’t almost the same plot as the dusk walker brides series????? Like am I dumb or is it??
January 5, 2026
It was ok, the idea was interesting but the ending lost me. Basically no plot, either.
March 22, 2026
“You are bound to a Skulltalker. You should look like it”.
No ha sido lo que me esperaba para nada. Hubo momentos que me daba la risa aunque tenía razón de peso para ser un “problema” real.
El argumento bueno, se me ha hecho a veces un poco cuesta arriba porque al final volvían siempre a dicho problema cuando siento que podría haberse llevado de otra manera, así como añadir otros dramas.
Lo que más me gustó ha sido la evolución del personaje masculino. La autora tiene mis dieces.
El final también me gustó aunque me quedé con ganas de saber un poco más.
No ha sido lo que me esperaba para nada. Hubo momentos que me daba la risa aunque tenía razón de peso para ser un “problema” real.
El argumento bueno, se me ha hecho a veces un poco cuesta arriba porque al final volvían siempre a dicho problema cuando siento que podría haberse llevado de otra manera, así como añadir otros dramas.
Lo que más me gustó ha sido la evolución del personaje masculino. La autora tiene mis dieces.
El final también me gustó aunque me quedé con ganas de saber un poco más.
July 5, 2026
DNF’ed at chapter three.
Honestly this felt way too close to Opal’s books and the FMC was irritating the hell out of me. Rip Skullstalker series, you could have been great.
Honestly this felt way too close to Opal’s books and the FMC was irritating the hell out of me. Rip Skullstalker series, you could have been great.
July 9, 2025
Its okay
Honestly, very inconsistent. Interesting idea but the inconsistencies bothered me a whole lot. The FMC was also a bit annoying especially when she kept interrupting the MMC with questions.
Honestly, very inconsistent. Interesting idea but the inconsistencies bothered me a whole lot. The FMC was also a bit annoying especially when she kept interrupting the MMC with questions.
January 11, 2026
Well, this is definitely a heat-heavy monster romance, and for that, it works. From the plot, I knew what I was getting into, and I was curious about the whole “jump straight into business” aspect—aka the smutty magic rituals.
At first, it was a bit hard to get through because the characters didn’t have much chemistry, and the fact that they immediately started the ritual held me back a little. But as the story progressed, their sessions began to “break the ice” and became genuinely enjoyable… to the point that by around 60–70% of the book, I was reading very quickly.
Slate, the Skullstalker, didn’t make much of an impression on me at the start, but as the story went on, he opened up emotionally, and by the end, he’s completely head over heels for his witch. I love it when a character utterly loses themselves for their partner. Ruby, on the other hand, was enjoyable in her own way, and I liked how she adapted to her new situation without losing her head over everything that was happening to her. Honestly, nothing particularly memorable. Just a lucky witch, I guess??
That said, the worldbuilding leaves a lot to be desired. Why is the ward failing? How long before it completely collapses? What happens once it’s repaired? Why doesn’t Ruby try to research witches who faced similar situations in the past? Even by the end, when the story concludes, the magical aspect feels rushed and underdeveloped, leaving me somewhat unsatisfied. As many previous readers have said: no plot, but a nice idea.
So, if you approach this book without high expectations and are just here for smutty magic rituals and a monster romance, it’s worth a try.
At first, it was a bit hard to get through because the characters didn’t have much chemistry, and the fact that they immediately started the ritual held me back a little. But as the story progressed, their sessions began to “break the ice” and became genuinely enjoyable… to the point that by around 60–70% of the book, I was reading very quickly.
Slate, the Skullstalker, didn’t make much of an impression on me at the start, but as the story went on, he opened up emotionally, and by the end, he’s completely head over heels for his witch. I love it when a character utterly loses themselves for their partner. Ruby, on the other hand, was enjoyable in her own way, and I liked how she adapted to her new situation without losing her head over everything that was happening to her. Honestly, nothing particularly memorable. Just a lucky witch, I guess??
That said, the worldbuilding leaves a lot to be desired. Why is the ward failing? How long before it completely collapses? What happens once it’s repaired? Why doesn’t Ruby try to research witches who faced similar situations in the past? Even by the end, when the story concludes, the magical aspect feels rushed and underdeveloped, leaving me somewhat unsatisfied. As many previous readers have said: no plot, but a nice idea.
So, if you approach this book without high expectations and are just here for smutty magic rituals and a monster romance, it’s worth a try.
June 28, 2026
I feel bad giving this only 3 stars because the build up between the FMC and MMC was so sweet.
And the smut was smuttin, BUT…the smut also made me wince in imaginative pain for the most part.
If you are not a fan of monster schlongs that literally require months of stretching and eventually spells to make fit, then, my friend, this is not for you.
I have to admit that it just all seemed painful to me. So if it is your thing then I’m sure you would enjoy this because as I mentioned, the actual relationship progression was sweet.
The writing was well done and not overly detailed (in regard to descriptive writing, but painfully detailed in regard to the MMC’s appendages). I feel like too many books these days have ridiculously redundant writing and the fact that this one did not is what is winning me over.
Overall, if you want a quick, smutty read to help catch you up on your reading challenge, then I’d say go for it.
And the smut was smuttin, BUT…the smut also made me wince in imaginative pain for the most part.
If you are not a fan of monster schlongs that literally require months of stretching and eventually spells to make fit, then, my friend, this is not for you.
I have to admit that it just all seemed painful to me. So if it is your thing then I’m sure you would enjoy this because as I mentioned, the actual relationship progression was sweet.
The writing was well done and not overly detailed (in regard to descriptive writing, but painfully detailed in regard to the MMC’s appendages). I feel like too many books these days have ridiculously redundant writing and the fact that this one did not is what is winning me over.
Overall, if you want a quick, smutty read to help catch you up on your reading challenge, then I’d say go for it.
July 25, 2026
Ruby was trying to renew the ward to protect the others, but glenda kept lecturing and saying she was choosing to get herself killed. Everyone seemed to look down on her cause she has magic and studied it and prayed to Paimon . I can't stand glenda, that's for sure.
Bygone and ruby were bound, and all she asked if he could renew the ward for her town and he approved that request.
Slate brother, Wick has me cracking up a bit .
Ruby was ready for it even if it meant mating ritual and slate was feeling desire towards her. But she was realizing the stories of slate were all wrong and made you wonder what else they had been lying about.
Miss ruby was getting excited about different thoughts of mating ritual. I dont blame her i would absolutely want to give myself to him.
But she had never been with a man and slate wouldn't be able to fit so he had prepared her body and she was loving it
The spirit dog is freaking cute.
I was screaming yes!!! Get it ruby she was sucking his cock as much as she can since he was big big 🥵
The more they got to practice and know eachother more she wanted be near him more and lay with him .
He wants keep her with him ugh my heart ❤️
Ruby very happy that he was able fit all of him inside her without pain .
[ I would never sleep again if I got to have this, Slate thought as he rolled onto his back, careful not to dislodge his knot. I would stay awake for the rest of time to make sure I never missed a second. ]
Bygone and ruby were bound, and all she asked if he could renew the ward for her town and he approved that request.
Slate brother, Wick has me cracking up a bit .
Ruby was ready for it even if it meant mating ritual and slate was feeling desire towards her. But she was realizing the stories of slate were all wrong and made you wonder what else they had been lying about.
Miss ruby was getting excited about different thoughts of mating ritual. I dont blame her i would absolutely want to give myself to him.
But she had never been with a man and slate wouldn't be able to fit so he had prepared her body and she was loving it
The spirit dog is freaking cute.
I was screaming yes!!! Get it ruby she was sucking his cock as much as she can since he was big big 🥵
The more they got to practice and know eachother more she wanted be near him more and lay with him .
He wants keep her with him ugh my heart ❤️
Ruby very happy that he was able fit all of him inside her without pain .
[ I would never sleep again if I got to have this, Slate thought as he rolled onto his back, careful not to dislodge his knot. I would stay awake for the rest of time to make sure I never missed a second. ]
July 2, 2025
Ohhh Anna! You should read this next
August 13, 2025
This was for a book club and I hate to be that person but this was horrible-the plot was not really existent and I hate the word “loincloth” now
July 25, 2026
DAMN that‘s a slutty book
June 28, 2025
Felt very similar to another book I’ve read. Cute and easy read.
Does need another round of editing though.
Does need another round of editing though.
July 30, 2026
0 plot and 90% spice. lol.
“Until our souls dissolve to dust,” he vowed. “I will have you, my little witch. My sweet, beloved mortal.”
October 2, 2025
If you loved Opal Reyne, you will devour this book!! Quite a few similarities but I’m living for it 🥵🔥
Slate is a morally grey, dog loving skullstalker shadow daddy 😩 The dog spirit caught me off guard when we finally found out his purpose to the story, it wasn’t what I was expecting but I enjoyed the story 🤷🏽♀️ give this book a chance, it’s a nice shorter read!!
Slate is a morally grey, dog loving skullstalker shadow daddy 😩 The dog spirit caught me off guard when we finally found out his purpose to the story, it wasn’t what I was expecting but I enjoyed the story 🤷🏽♀️ give this book a chance, it’s a nice shorter read!!
June 24, 2025
4.5 out of 5 stars!
"Even if he fed her and made her a dress, he was still dangerous." - Ruby
Ruby's a witch who's losing her powers. Determined to save the smalltown she calls home and possibly get her magic back she journeys into the Skullwalker void. Knowing that she may never return home alive because Bygone's are known for devouring humans. But she has to try! Plus, she has some magic left and a trick up her sleeve!
Ruby didn't expect the Skullstalker to be approachable in a way. He doesn't instantly devour her and even he agrees to help her in a timely manner. Though she may have trapped him into doing it. Only when Ruby finds out the mechanics that go into renewing the ward spell, she may be rethinking things a little. The two grow closer as they realize training is needed before either can fulfill the ward ritual.
"I am a guide. This is the void of wanderers. I lead souls where they are supposed to be." - Slate
I was excited to read this book because I've read from this author before under her different pen name. I loved this read and how things were written. I got sucked into it and was flying through the pages before realizing I had gotten so far in the book!
Like most things in life there are two sides to everything. Ruby's used to the human side of things and the stories to keep children in line and put fear into grown-ups. After meeting Slate however, she begins to understand that they have gotten many things wrong! She knows he's still a beast and could easily rip her to shreds but there's something about him. His base, primal instincts don't cloud his mind and judgement. Least not all the time. There's something more to the mysterious monster.
Slate would rather be left alone and sleep away the centuries. Waking when duty called but then retreating back into his comfortable nest. I loved how Slate was written and how he feels like an actual monster. At times Ruby picking up on his growls and body language registering as an animal getting ready to pounce and eat prey. Her being the prey and not in a spicy, monster romance way. She's dinner! I also admired how Slate's immortality versus Ruby's mortality was written. Dual POVs giving internal monologue into things!
This read contains language, violence, bloodshed, and some gore. Mention of mortality and death, how humans have so little time and for a Skullstalker they just blink and that human's life is over. Witches are needed in this world to help cure things and relieve ailments in secret but otherwise they are ignored. Bad mouthing, shunning, and slight bullying are hinted at or mentioned.
"What was this little witch doing to him?" - Slate
The story is fast paced, and the spice happens shortly after the two meet! A mating ritual is required to renew the ward on the town so. . .the two hop on that pretty quickly. Only problem is there's a significant size difference and Ruby is a virgin! Skullstalkers are also not known to ever mate humans or be able to. One of the main plotlines is prep work and stretching. I respected how Slate handled things and Ruby. Understanding her limits and working with her. This read does take that saying of "rearranging my guts" to a whole other level! Magic is involved but the wording around the scenes after was like "whoa!" Also made me laugh.
I found some information was repeated in a couple of places. I did love this read and figured out some of the twists! The dog spirit is my favorite, and I loved how Slate broke his serious composure to give scritchy-scratches! I cannot wait to read Wick's story because I believe he's next! Really loved the writing in this read and how the world building was done. Ruby and Slate get an HEA but more to come for this world.
Enjoy the read with an immortal monster and a determined witch! Don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.com
"Even if he fed her and made her a dress, he was still dangerous." - Ruby
Ruby's a witch who's losing her powers. Determined to save the smalltown she calls home and possibly get her magic back she journeys into the Skullwalker void. Knowing that she may never return home alive because Bygone's are known for devouring humans. But she has to try! Plus, she has some magic left and a trick up her sleeve!
Ruby didn't expect the Skullstalker to be approachable in a way. He doesn't instantly devour her and even he agrees to help her in a timely manner. Though she may have trapped him into doing it. Only when Ruby finds out the mechanics that go into renewing the ward spell, she may be rethinking things a little. The two grow closer as they realize training is needed before either can fulfill the ward ritual.
"I am a guide. This is the void of wanderers. I lead souls where they are supposed to be." - Slate
I was excited to read this book because I've read from this author before under her different pen name. I loved this read and how things were written. I got sucked into it and was flying through the pages before realizing I had gotten so far in the book!
Like most things in life there are two sides to everything. Ruby's used to the human side of things and the stories to keep children in line and put fear into grown-ups. After meeting Slate however, she begins to understand that they have gotten many things wrong! She knows he's still a beast and could easily rip her to shreds but there's something about him. His base, primal instincts don't cloud his mind and judgement. Least not all the time. There's something more to the mysterious monster.
Slate would rather be left alone and sleep away the centuries. Waking when duty called but then retreating back into his comfortable nest. I loved how Slate was written and how he feels like an actual monster. At times Ruby picking up on his growls and body language registering as an animal getting ready to pounce and eat prey. Her being the prey and not in a spicy, monster romance way. She's dinner! I also admired how Slate's immortality versus Ruby's mortality was written. Dual POVs giving internal monologue into things!
This read contains language, violence, bloodshed, and some gore. Mention of mortality and death, how humans have so little time and for a Skullstalker they just blink and that human's life is over. Witches are needed in this world to help cure things and relieve ailments in secret but otherwise they are ignored. Bad mouthing, shunning, and slight bullying are hinted at or mentioned.
"What was this little witch doing to him?" - Slate
The story is fast paced, and the spice happens shortly after the two meet! A mating ritual is required to renew the ward on the town so. . .the two hop on that pretty quickly. Only problem is there's a significant size difference and Ruby is a virgin! Skullstalkers are also not known to ever mate humans or be able to. One of the main plotlines is prep work and stretching. I respected how Slate handled things and Ruby. Understanding her limits and working with her. This read does take that saying of "rearranging my guts" to a whole other level! Magic is involved but the wording around the scenes after was like "whoa!" Also made me laugh.
I found some information was repeated in a couple of places. I did love this read and figured out some of the twists! The dog spirit is my favorite, and I loved how Slate broke his serious composure to give scritchy-scratches! I cannot wait to read Wick's story because I believe he's next! Really loved the writing in this read and how the world building was done. Ruby and Slate get an HEA but more to come for this world.
Enjoy the read with an immortal monster and a determined witch! Don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.com
November 15, 2025
A Lovely Spicy Read
Elizabeth Taylor
I really loved this story. I know some can't stand it when a woman is shy and timid, but I love it, especially when they tend to be more accepting of things. As a shy person myself, we are definitely the last to be picked, so in turn, I didn't like the FMC as much at the end, with her being a bit more dominant.
There was some skipping ahead, which was a wee bit annoying but the author still wrote in the good parts.
There are not too many authors that write decent "size difference" scenes but the scenes in this book they were spicy to the max and I adored them. I prefer things to be a bit realistic mixed with the fantasies. Too often do people think it just "goes right in" when there's size differences so I really appreciated the scenes in this one.
The characters were very good, though I was hoping it would show more visits with the older Skullstalker, as I can imagine the poor guy was very lonely. The dog was... odd. I liked him until we find out what he was, and then it was more bitter sweet than anything cuz it was like the MMC still wasn't spending much time with his friends and family. I was also quite sad that there is no pregnancy involved, which it states pretty early in the book. Idk just something about a loving couple raising a family together warms my heart, but not everyone enjoys that same sentiment so I get it.
All in all, I loved the character development, though I do wish they ended up making a garden and fixing up the castle. I was also pretty disappointed that it never explains the castle, and since each book is different and they don't all live in the same place, I doubt its going to address that more later on.
Elizabeth Taylor
I really loved this story. I know some can't stand it when a woman is shy and timid, but I love it, especially when they tend to be more accepting of things. As a shy person myself, we are definitely the last to be picked, so in turn, I didn't like the FMC as much at the end, with her being a bit more dominant.
There was some skipping ahead, which was a wee bit annoying but the author still wrote in the good parts.
There are not too many authors that write decent "size difference" scenes but the scenes in this book they were spicy to the max and I adored them. I prefer things to be a bit realistic mixed with the fantasies. Too often do people think it just "goes right in" when there's size differences so I really appreciated the scenes in this one.
The characters were very good, though I was hoping it would show more visits with the older Skullstalker, as I can imagine the poor guy was very lonely. The dog was... odd. I liked him until we find out what he was, and then it was more bitter sweet than anything cuz it was like the MMC still wasn't spending much time with his friends and family. I was also quite sad that there is no pregnancy involved, which it states pretty early in the book. Idk just something about a loving couple raising a family together warms my heart, but not everyone enjoys that same sentiment so I get it.
All in all, I loved the character development, though I do wish they ended up making a garden and fixing up the castle. I was also pretty disappointed that it never explains the castle, and since each book is different and they don't all live in the same place, I doubt its going to address that more later on.
October 29, 2025
⭐⭐ (2) | 🌶️🌶️ (2)
I showed up for the spice and I guess the spice must have slept through it's alarm.
This is a kinda bad offender of the (metaphorical, I don't know if this book has one) "pretty trope graphic hype." Don't get me wrong, I love them. But if something on the list happens a handful of times but with sparse detail, it shouldn't make it onto the list.
I was hyped for some of my favorite kinks/tropes -
Technically it showed up: late, disheveled, and with bare details. It's not actually that late, but some of the most delicious parts are skipped! What do you mean there's size training but after the initial few times we only hear how it's been a week and everything's sore?! Next a short scene that's sparse on details, then a week skip. The recovery doesn't take a week, either, we're told that 'over the next week,' etc.
The main event is short. I just stared at the page and sighed.
The ending comes out of nowhere, suddenly has plot that I wasn't invested in, because the author hadn't given me anything to be invested in, and is downright bizarre. I don't understand this book, nor why it was recommended to me.
Quotes:
Probably the crowning moment of the book, I think. That's it.
I showed up for the spice and I guess the spice must have slept through it's alarm.
This is a kinda bad offender of the (metaphorical, I don't know if this book has one) "pretty trope graphic hype." Don't get me wrong, I love them. But if something on the list happens a handful of times but with sparse detail, it shouldn't make it onto the list.
I was hyped for some of my favorite kinks/tropes -
Technically it showed up: late, disheveled, and with bare details. It's not actually that late, but some of the most delicious parts are skipped! What do you mean there's size training but after the initial few times we only hear how it's been a week and everything's sore?! Next a short scene that's sparse on details, then a week skip. The recovery doesn't take a week, either, we're told that 'over the next week,' etc.
The main event is short. I just stared at the page and sighed.
The ending comes out of nowhere, suddenly has plot that I wasn't invested in, because the author hadn't given me anything to be invested in, and is downright bizarre. I don't understand this book, nor why it was recommended to me.
Quotes:
Probably the crowning moment of the book, I think. That's it.
July 9, 2025
I love when the monster is actually a monster! Looks like a monster and hunts/fights like a monster with that soft, sweet center that the FMC has to slowly peel back. This is exactly that, the skull on Slate’d face is just part of who he is plus he’s big, strong and has the urge to eat her sometimes. It’s by perfect blend of danger and heady tension that I really enjoyed. Ruby is so determined to save her town and its people, even though they don’t deserve her. Even willing to give herself up to a monster people are terrified of and will most likely eat her. What she finds isn’t what she expected, Slate is kind to her, learning her needs and tending to them, and being sweet. He brings her chocolates and pie, makes s more accessible and even builds a nest for them to share.
And the main reason they’re put together? They have to mate, knot and all, to renew the ward that protects her town from demons. Cue many “stretching sessions” that train Ruby to take him. They hot and exciting, seeing how far she can take Slate and seeing their feelings for each other deepen with each spicy scene. It was amazing, knotting, size difference, extra long tongues and a monster who loves to eat out. At the core of both our MCs are two beings who want to be understood and cared for, who see past the monster and who they really are. I really enjoyed it! I can’t wait to dive into book 2!
And the main reason they’re put together? They have to mate, knot and all, to renew the ward that protects her town from demons. Cue many “stretching sessions” that train Ruby to take him. They hot and exciting, seeing how far she can take Slate and seeing their feelings for each other deepen with each spicy scene. It was amazing, knotting, size difference, extra long tongues and a monster who loves to eat out. At the core of both our MCs are two beings who want to be understood and cared for, who see past the monster and who they really are. I really enjoyed it! I can’t wait to dive into book 2!
January 27, 2026
tle: 🖤🔥 “Didn’t Love It… But I’m Still Hooked” 🔥🖤
I want to start by saying this book definitely did something to me—and I’m still figuring out what that something was. 😅 I didn’t immediately enjoy it, and it took me a while to really settle into the story.
Ruby, the FMC, took some getting used to. She’s not unlikable, but she does come off as a bit of a pushover at first. That said, I appreciated her growth as the story went on—she slowly starts coming into her own, and that development made her easier to root for. 💪🏽✨
Slade, the MMC, also took time to warm up to. He’s rough around the edges, but I did like how he emotionally softened toward Ruby as the story progressed. Watching that shift made their dynamic more interesting for me.
Now… let’s talk about the spice. 🌶️😮💨
Not a lot of authors can handle the size-difference trope well in monster romance, but this book? The spicy scenes were spicy to the max, and I genuinely enjoyed that aspect. That alone kept me turning pages.
Overall, even though I had mixed feelings, I’ll definitely be reading book two. From what I can tell, this series is shaping up to be at least four books, and I’m invested enough to keep going. 📖🔥
⭐ Rating: 3.5 / 5
Conflicted, spicy, and intriguing enough to continue.
I want to start by saying this book definitely did something to me—and I’m still figuring out what that something was. 😅 I didn’t immediately enjoy it, and it took me a while to really settle into the story.
Ruby, the FMC, took some getting used to. She’s not unlikable, but she does come off as a bit of a pushover at first. That said, I appreciated her growth as the story went on—she slowly starts coming into her own, and that development made her easier to root for. 💪🏽✨
Slade, the MMC, also took time to warm up to. He’s rough around the edges, but I did like how he emotionally softened toward Ruby as the story progressed. Watching that shift made their dynamic more interesting for me.
Now… let’s talk about the spice. 🌶️😮💨
Not a lot of authors can handle the size-difference trope well in monster romance, but this book? The spicy scenes were spicy to the max, and I genuinely enjoyed that aspect. That alone kept me turning pages.
Overall, even though I had mixed feelings, I’ll definitely be reading book two. From what I can tell, this series is shaping up to be at least four books, and I’m invested enough to keep going. 📖🔥
⭐ Rating: 3.5 / 5
Conflicted, spicy, and intriguing enough to continue.
July 15, 2026
I absolutely loved it!
Bound has a limited world building, yet it's so interesting and creative. I loved how magical the void sounded, and the descriptions really made the world come to life.
The two main characters were amazing. They both felt unique in their own way, which is something I lack with a lot of monster romance books. Especially the FMC is 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻 she's relatable, shy, but also funny in the right moments.
I loved her curiosity. It made it feel more realistic.
Slate was absolutely adorable and frightening at the same time. The comedic touch of him wanting to eat her and having to contain himself made me laugh multiple times.
The spice in this book was very good. It wasn't too much, and there was still a plot line besides it, which I enjoyed.
I thought this was one of those more well-known monster romances, but to my suprise, not a lot of people have read it. And I think it deserves more readers.
I'm currently experiencing a reading slump, yet I finished this in one day, and I think that says a lot :))
Highly recommend if you're into monster romance with spice, fun characters, light but magical world-building, and overall an easy to enjoy story ♡
Bound has a limited world building, yet it's so interesting and creative. I loved how magical the void sounded, and the descriptions really made the world come to life.
The two main characters were amazing. They both felt unique in their own way, which is something I lack with a lot of monster romance books. Especially the FMC is 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻 she's relatable, shy, but also funny in the right moments.
I loved her curiosity. It made it feel more realistic.
Slate was absolutely adorable and frightening at the same time. The comedic touch of him wanting to eat her and having to contain himself made me laugh multiple times.
The spice in this book was very good. It wasn't too much, and there was still a plot line besides it, which I enjoyed.
I thought this was one of those more well-known monster romances, but to my suprise, not a lot of people have read it. And I think it deserves more readers.
I'm currently experiencing a reading slump, yet I finished this in one day, and I think that says a lot :))
Highly recommend if you're into monster romance with spice, fun characters, light but magical world-building, and overall an easy to enjoy story ♡
June 23, 2025
I loved this. For me, it was more historical romance with paranormal elements. I'm actually surprised I enjoyed it that much because I'm largely not a fan of virginal heroines, as they usually come with a heavy dose of naivete, but Ruby wasn't naive.
I am also 100% not a fan of painful intercourse but I am a fan of let's get ready for the ritual intercourse because it was hot and also so sweet.
I love that intrinsically, Ruby+Slate were both lonely in their existence, but seemingly weren't looking for a way to change that, but they came together and brought colour to each others life.
I loved the eventual ward renewal. Paimon's mystery really isn't a mystery if you have been paying attention to the story but it was well written.
So, in short, I loved this. Will be reading the next book in the series.
I am also 100% not a fan of painful intercourse but I am a fan of let's get ready for the ritual intercourse because it was hot and also so sweet.
Then she appeared and suddenly he was lusting and hunting and wanting. The only thing that made any of it worth it was the ridiculous rapture she afforded him.
And soon, it would be gone.
I love that intrinsically, Ruby+Slate were both lonely in their existence, but seemingly weren't looking for a way to change that, but they came together and brought colour to each others life.
I loved the eventual ward renewal. Paimon's mystery really isn't a mystery if you have been paying attention to the story but it was well written.
So, in short, I loved this. Will be reading the next book in the series.
July 26, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bound was an entertaining, quick read! The plot was actually interesting and didn’t feel ridiculous, and for anyone who’s been chasing those Duskwalker Brides vibes, this definitely scratched that itch.
That said… there were a couple of editing mistakes that completely pulled me out of the story. At one point, the spirit dog grabs her by the sleeve… except she’s only wearing a towel. It even says it twice! Then later she’s thinking about a picture hidden in a dresser and “looks toward the dresser,” even though the previous paragraph clearly established they were outside. Those are the kinds of continuity errors that are hard to overlook, and I was surprised they made it through editing.
Overall though, it was a fun, fast read with a solid plot, and if you’re craving something with Duskwalker-esque vibes while waiting for your next monster romance fix, I’d still recommend giving it a try.
Bound was an entertaining, quick read! The plot was actually interesting and didn’t feel ridiculous, and for anyone who’s been chasing those Duskwalker Brides vibes, this definitely scratched that itch.
That said… there were a couple of editing mistakes that completely pulled me out of the story. At one point, the spirit dog grabs her by the sleeve… except she’s only wearing a towel. It even says it twice! Then later she’s thinking about a picture hidden in a dresser and “looks toward the dresser,” even though the previous paragraph clearly established they were outside. Those are the kinds of continuity errors that are hard to overlook, and I was surprised they made it through editing.
Overall though, it was a fun, fast read with a solid plot, and if you’re craving something with Duskwalker-esque vibes while waiting for your next monster romance fix, I’d still recommend giving it a try.
August 5, 2026
I went into Bound expecting a quick, spicy monster romance, and while it definitely delivered on the monster romance side of things, I was pleasantly surprised by how sweet it turned out to be. Ruby and Slate had great chemistry, and I loved watching their relationship develop beyond the initial attraction. Slate was the perfect mix of intimidating monster and completely devoted love interest, and by the end I was far more emotionally invested in him than I expected
The plot and world-building did feel a little underdeveloped at times. I wanted more answers about the ward, the gods, and the wider world outside the void. That said, the atmosphere was fantastic, and I really enjoyed the mystery surrounding why the ward was failing. The reveal about the dog spirit/Paimon genuinely caught me off guard! This was a fun, addictive read with plenty of spice, a surprisingly tender romance, and enough intrigue to make me want to continue the series.
The plot and world-building did feel a little underdeveloped at times. I wanted more answers about the ward, the gods, and the wider world outside the void. That said, the atmosphere was fantastic, and I really enjoyed the mystery surrounding why the ward was failing. The reveal about the dog spirit/Paimon genuinely caught me off guard! This was a fun, addictive read with plenty of spice, a surprisingly tender romance, and enough intrigue to make me want to continue the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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July 1, 2025**I've learned of a situation with this author and the Skullstalker series having similar plot points to another popular monster romance series. I'm keeping my review up for now but I may remove it depending on how this unfolds. It's been a long time since I read the series it's being compared to, and I haven't read them all, so I didn't notice anything major that gave me concern but I could have missed things.**
Cute and spicy monster romance! Slate is the perfect grumpy monster but still treats Ruby nicely and makes sure she has what she needs to survive even if he doesn't understand humans. But I am glad he didn't listen to his brother and get her dirt to eat!
I liked that they were sort of forced to be together for a some time while they had to prepare Ruby and work her up to taking all of him for the ritual. It made their relationship feel more genuine and that they actually fell in love with each other.
There isn't a lot of angst or detailed world building so it's a great, easy book for a weekend read!
Cute and spicy monster romance! Slate is the perfect grumpy monster but still treats Ruby nicely and makes sure she has what she needs to survive even if he doesn't understand humans. But I am glad he didn't listen to his brother and get her dirt to eat!
I liked that they were sort of forced to be together for a some time while they had to prepare Ruby and work her up to taking all of him for the ritual. It made their relationship feel more genuine and that they actually fell in love with each other.
There isn't a lot of angst or detailed world building so it's a great, easy book for a weekend read!
July 1, 2025
Steamy and sweet!
I really enjoyed this book! It was nice to have the FMC, Ruby, have personality, spunk, and not be a damsel in distress. And watching Slate fall for her was swoon worthy.
There are a few small continuity issues that kept me from giving it 5 stars, though. A couple of times, he was called a Skullwalker or a Skullskalker, even though it's Skullstalker. And, there was a scene where he was described as hiding something in his sleeve a few times, even though it originally said loincloth, and he only was ever described as wearing a loincloth. Easy to get past and didn't really hurt the story, but just an FYI in case that's a hard 'no' for you. I would still recommend the book even with those small issues, and I'm definitely going to read book 2!
I really enjoyed this book! It was nice to have the FMC, Ruby, have personality, spunk, and not be a damsel in distress. And watching Slate fall for her was swoon worthy.
There are a few small continuity issues that kept me from giving it 5 stars, though. A couple of times, he was called a Skullwalker or a Skullskalker, even though it's Skullstalker. And, there was a scene where he was described as hiding something in his sleeve a few times, even though it originally said loincloth, and he only was ever described as wearing a loincloth. Easy to get past and didn't really hurt the story, but just an FYI in case that's a hard 'no' for you. I would still recommend the book even with those small issues, and I'm definitely going to read book 2!
August 21, 2025
This one? Unholy levels of hot.
A sharp-tongued, zero-nonsense heroine who handles herself just fine — until she meets him. 😈
The monster MMC? Massive, dangerous, soft only for her.
He’s obsessed, tender, growly… and way too big for her — in every possible way.
(Spoiler: she takes it. Eventually. Barely.) 🥵
The smut? Utterly feral.
Claws, size kink, possessive worship, and scenes that’ll make your Kindle short-circuit. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
But between the filth, there’s softness — sweet touches, whispered devotion, and the kind of love that feels like being claimed and kept forever.
If “he’s too big, but she can’t stay away” is your brand of unhinged, Bound will ruin you — beautifully.
A sharp-tongued, zero-nonsense heroine who handles herself just fine — until she meets him. 😈
The monster MMC? Massive, dangerous, soft only for her.
He’s obsessed, tender, growly… and way too big for her — in every possible way.
(Spoiler: she takes it. Eventually. Barely.) 🥵
The smut? Utterly feral.
Claws, size kink, possessive worship, and scenes that’ll make your Kindle short-circuit. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
But between the filth, there’s softness — sweet touches, whispered devotion, and the kind of love that feels like being claimed and kept forever.
If “he’s too big, but she can’t stay away” is your brand of unhinged, Bound will ruin you — beautifully.
December 24, 2025
Even though this is a short book, I loved it so much 🖤 The tension and chemistry are there, and it hits harder than I expected. The male lead is so gentle, willing, and deeply caring, the kind of devotion that sneaks up on you and refuses to let go.
He needs her more than he needs his routine sleep, and that alone says everything. Even while believing she deserves better than him, he still refuses to let any other man claim his human. A god who’s afraid to take a fifty-year nap, or even a hundred-year sleep, simply because her lifespan is so limited and he wants every moment he can get with her? That’s devastating in the most beautiful way.
If that isn’t romance, if that isn’t love then I don’t know what is. Definitely a reread.
He needs her more than he needs his routine sleep, and that alone says everything. Even while believing she deserves better than him, he still refuses to let any other man claim his human. A god who’s afraid to take a fifty-year nap, or even a hundred-year sleep, simply because her lifespan is so limited and he wants every moment he can get with her? That’s devastating in the most beautiful way.
If that isn’t romance, if that isn’t love then I don’t know what is. Definitely a reread.
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