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Bound with Silence
It’s been two years since Aaliyah William’s father died, and now, she lives at the bottom of a pit. There are other prisoners here with her, lying in the dark, waiting to be taken. When a familiar face from her past takes her from the pit, she has one goal: find a way to come back for her friends.
There’s just one problem.
Her new captor is a vampire who gives her two choices: give him her blood, or he will take it.
There’s just one problem.
Her new captor is a vampire who gives her two choices: give him her blood, or he will take it.
- GenresVampires
299 pages, Paperback
Published October 30, 2025
8 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Mariah L. Stevens
18 books111 followersMariah L. Stevens is a half-Black author and artist who lives in the PNW. She is diagnosed with Autism, BiPolar 1, and CPTSD. Mariah has been writing since she was 13 years old, and she plans to use her passion and life experience to help other survivors through the power of prose. She is a sex trafficking and Bulimia survivor that advocates for recovery and a life worth living. She encourages mental health awareness, as well as ED awareness in Black individuals, and weaves all of these elements into her work with the sole purpose of helping others seek recovery.
Mariah is a very creative person. She loves to write, draw, design fabric, sew lolita-style dresses, design her own book covers, and do different types of crafting. She loves Japanese fashion, Kingdom Hearts, Disneyland, and her cat, Chiiyo.
Mariah listens to metalcore and post-hardcore, has way too many pictures of MGK and Zendaya in her phone, and has 3 Kingdom Hearts tattoos.
She also really loves Godzilla.
Mariah is a very creative person. She loves to write, draw, design fabric, sew lolita-style dresses, design her own book covers, and do different types of crafting. She loves Japanese fashion, Kingdom Hearts, Disneyland, and her cat, Chiiyo.
Mariah listens to metalcore and post-hardcore, has way too many pictures of MGK and Zendaya in her phone, and has 3 Kingdom Hearts tattoos.
She also really loves Godzilla.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 17, 2025
ARC Review
Book Release Day - October 30, 2025
Thank you to the Author and publishing team for allowing me to read and review this book!
Dark, Delicious, and Deadly. That Cliffhanger Killed Me!
Holy smokes, Bound With Silence absolutely has a piece of my heart now! This is a captivating dark fantasy masterpiece. Seriously, the moment I picked it up, I had a hard time putting the book down—the pacing is relentless and expertly done.
The tension was palpable from the first chapter, building and twisting in ways I didn't see coming. The world-building is intensely dark; I mean, the darkness was dark, and I loved every minute of the morally gray characters and high stakes. And yes, for those wondering, the spice was spicy. It perfectly matched the mood and elevated the already incredible chemistry.
Now, let's talk about that ending. That killer cliffhanger? I’m still reeling! I’m absolutely counting down the days to the sequel. If you love dark fantasy with high heat and even higher stakes, drop everything and read this now. You won't regret the ride, even if it leaves you screaming for Book Two!
Book Release Day - October 30, 2025
Thank you to the Author and publishing team for allowing me to read and review this book!
Dark, Delicious, and Deadly. That Cliffhanger Killed Me!
Holy smokes, Bound With Silence absolutely has a piece of my heart now! This is a captivating dark fantasy masterpiece. Seriously, the moment I picked it up, I had a hard time putting the book down—the pacing is relentless and expertly done.
The tension was palpable from the first chapter, building and twisting in ways I didn't see coming. The world-building is intensely dark; I mean, the darkness was dark, and I loved every minute of the morally gray characters and high stakes. And yes, for those wondering, the spice was spicy. It perfectly matched the mood and elevated the already incredible chemistry.
Now, let's talk about that ending. That killer cliffhanger? I’m still reeling! I’m absolutely counting down the days to the sequel. If you love dark fantasy with high heat and even higher stakes, drop everything and read this now. You won't regret the ride, even if it leaves you screaming for Book Two!
November 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC read. I received this amazing book as an ARC read and I have to say, completely obsessed. Aaliyah is beautiful , strong, being hunted for what her family was. Demetri is morally obsidian black, brooding and the one to find Aaliyah. This flew through this book. It is well written and has you in its clutches on page 1. I did take a half star because the background was a little unknown. Is the supernatural beings in this book hiding in plain sight or are they like a hidden society? I could figure that out. Can’t wait for book 2!!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC read. I received this amazing book as an ARC read and I have to say, completely obsessed. Aaliyah is beautiful , strong, being hunted for what her family was. Demetri is morally obsidian black, brooding and the one to find Aaliyah. This flew through this book. It is well written and has you in its clutches on page 1. I did take a half star because the background was a little unknown. Is the supernatural beings in this book hiding in plain sight or are they like a hidden society? I could figure that out. Can’t wait for book 2!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2025
Wow!!! Started this book with the intention of slowly getting through it within the next few days. My plans immediately changed and I flew through the entire thing within about 6 hours.
I loved the bit of a different take on the vampire/human feeder dynamic. Demetri is for sure a tortured yet cruel soul but his “soft” spot, (ok maybe not soft but we get the idea) for Aaliyah is sweet. I could definitely feel so many things through each of these characters but each of them went through so much despair and helplessness that hay it was a bit overwhelming but I loved every second.
*the warnings do not lie, this book is dark and if you have triggers or able to sink into despair of your own easily then this book may be rough for you.
The ending is a real cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next book.
My only regret with this book is that it isn’t longer/more fleshed out. Mainly just because I’m greedy and want more but I can see a bit more room to add stuff.
I loved the bit of a different take on the vampire/human feeder dynamic. Demetri is for sure a tortured yet cruel soul but his “soft” spot, (ok maybe not soft but we get the idea) for Aaliyah is sweet. I could definitely feel so many things through each of these characters but each of them went through so much despair and helplessness that hay it was a bit overwhelming but I loved every second.
*the warnings do not lie, this book is dark and if you have triggers or able to sink into despair of your own easily then this book may be rough for you.
The ending is a real cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next book.
My only regret with this book is that it isn’t longer/more fleshed out. Mainly just because I’m greedy and want more but I can see a bit more room to add stuff.
October 26, 2025
ARC Read: From the very first page, Bound with Silence had me hooked. Aaliyah’s raw, resilient character drew me in immediately — withering in the dark, ripped from the only companionship she has left, and thrust back into a world she’s been hiding from her entire life. The tension never lets up; every chapter kept me on edge, never sure what to expect next as Aaliyah and Demetri navigate their tangled emotions and the deadly politics of the vampire coven.
Their dynamic is unlike anything I’ve read before in fantasy. Demetri isn’t your typical dark and broody male lead — he’s dark and brutal, a killer bound by duty and his sire, forced to shield every emotion behind a wall of violence and control. Watching him endure the torment of what he must do to keep Aaliyah safe was both heartbreaking and mesmerizing.
And that ending? That cliffhanger? Absolute perfection — a total chef’s kiss moment. I closed the book both satisfied and desperate for more. I need the next installment now.
Their dynamic is unlike anything I’ve read before in fantasy. Demetri isn’t your typical dark and broody male lead — he’s dark and brutal, a killer bound by duty and his sire, forced to shield every emotion behind a wall of violence and control. Watching him endure the torment of what he must do to keep Aaliyah safe was both heartbreaking and mesmerizing.
And that ending? That cliffhanger? Absolute perfection — a total chef’s kiss moment. I closed the book both satisfied and desperate for more. I need the next installment now.
October 18, 2025
Excuse me while I pick my heart up off the floor of the pit and hope that Demetri might put it back together. One can hope right 😅
Bound with silence gives off Twilight vibes but with a darker twist involving way more than just werewolves - witches, Elementals Oh my!
Jump into the world of Aaliyah, strong, fearless and determined to help others, she has to survive in the clutches of Demetri, tall, dark, alphahole and 100% vampire. Together confined in Demetri house dive into how these two come into terms to an arrangement that may just benefit both their needs.
Prepare yourself for a journey and don’t forget to bring tissues!
Bravo Mariah L. Stevens - but seriously I need book two now 😂
Bound with silence gives off Twilight vibes but with a darker twist involving way more than just werewolves - witches, Elementals Oh my!
Jump into the world of Aaliyah, strong, fearless and determined to help others, she has to survive in the clutches of Demetri, tall, dark, alphahole and 100% vampire. Together confined in Demetri house dive into how these two come into terms to an arrangement that may just benefit both their needs.
Prepare yourself for a journey and don’t forget to bring tissues!
Bravo Mariah L. Stevens - but seriously I need book two now 😂
October 24, 2025
Vampires (✅)
Witches (✅)
Dark vibes (✅)
ARC review:
Overall I really enjoyed the world the author created in this book to set the tone for the series. It did take a minute in the beginning to get going but once it did the story flowed and was hard to put down. The author did a great job setting the scene and incorporating the background of the characters. The characters had great chemistry which added to the story.the side characters were explored lightly but enough that kept me curious about them. Definitely a great start to a trilogy with that major cliffhanger at the end! Can’t wait to read the next installment.
I loved the different view of vampires/humans compared to other books in this category.
My only complaint is the MMC is a bit of a wuss at keeping his “promises” with zero follow through in most aspects. But that is more towards the MMC than the book itself as I’m assuming it is part of his character arc in coming books and I cannot wait to see him transform into what the FMC deserves!
Witches (✅)
Dark vibes (✅)
ARC review:
Overall I really enjoyed the world the author created in this book to set the tone for the series. It did take a minute in the beginning to get going but once it did the story flowed and was hard to put down. The author did a great job setting the scene and incorporating the background of the characters. The characters had great chemistry which added to the story.the side characters were explored lightly but enough that kept me curious about them. Definitely a great start to a trilogy with that major cliffhanger at the end! Can’t wait to read the next installment.
I loved the different view of vampires/humans compared to other books in this category.
My only complaint is the MMC is a bit of a wuss at keeping his “promises” with zero follow through in most aspects. But that is more towards the MMC than the book itself as I’m assuming it is part of his character arc in coming books and I cannot wait to see him transform into what the FMC deserves!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2025
****Check your trigger warnings***Loved this look into the vampire world I need more. FMC being essentially held hostage and how she deals with the MMC not only being her savior but also her enemy. Book 2 where are you!
October 25, 2025
A Captivating and Intense Dark Romance!!!
Bound with Silence by Mariah L. Stevens is amazing and I simply couldn't put it down and once I started. I'm always on the lookout for a good fantasy romance that has a real depth and tension and this book delivered on every level.
The author warns that this book is dark and she isn't kidding but if you enjoy stories that aren't afraid to explore the shadows, oh then this is a definite must read. I love a dark book and if you do picking this up!
The story pulls you in immediately, introducing the main character - Aaliyah Williams, who has lost everything and Demetri Cyprian, who’s a dark and enigmatic vampire who is deeply connected to her tragic past.
What I loved most was the dynamic between Aaliyah and Demetri. It's the ultimate "gilded cage" scenario which is fitting as this is the first book in The Gilded Cage Trilogy. The power play between them is electric and Demetri is the perfect morally grey anti-hero who is cold and cruel one moment but then shows flashes of something more that keeps you guessing about his true motives.
The author does a fantastic job of building a complex paranormal world with its own politics and rules that never felt overwhelming, just rich and intriguing. And you feel it all. The tension is constant and the spicy scenes are incredibly intense and there is amazing plot.
I was completely hooked from the first chapter to the last. If you love a dark, high stakes fantasy romance with complex characters you can't help but root for then I highly recommend this book. I am already looking forward to Book Two!
Bound with Silence by Mariah L. Stevens is amazing and I simply couldn't put it down and once I started. I'm always on the lookout for a good fantasy romance that has a real depth and tension and this book delivered on every level.
The author warns that this book is dark and she isn't kidding but if you enjoy stories that aren't afraid to explore the shadows, oh then this is a definite must read. I love a dark book and if you do picking this up!
The story pulls you in immediately, introducing the main character - Aaliyah Williams, who has lost everything and Demetri Cyprian, who’s a dark and enigmatic vampire who is deeply connected to her tragic past.
What I loved most was the dynamic between Aaliyah and Demetri. It's the ultimate "gilded cage" scenario which is fitting as this is the first book in The Gilded Cage Trilogy. The power play between them is electric and Demetri is the perfect morally grey anti-hero who is cold and cruel one moment but then shows flashes of something more that keeps you guessing about his true motives.
The author does a fantastic job of building a complex paranormal world with its own politics and rules that never felt overwhelming, just rich and intriguing. And you feel it all. The tension is constant and the spicy scenes are incredibly intense and there is amazing plot.
I was completely hooked from the first chapter to the last. If you love a dark, high stakes fantasy romance with complex characters you can't help but root for then I highly recommend this book. I am already looking forward to Book Two!
November 2, 2025
I’m going to do this review slightly differently.
This is a *dark* PNR. Like, really dark. Not pitch black, for certain, but we’re beyond charcoal. If you have triggers, don’t read this book. If you can move past it, this is a heavy read but compelling.
The book is the first of a trilogy. There is a cliffhanger. We have not reached the lovers part of enemies to lovers yet. But book two won’t be too far away!
So the plot…Aaliyah is living a life she did not expect to live. After the death of her father five years ago, she’s been on the run from the vampires that killed him. She should have died, but her classmate Demetri let her go. Now her past has caught up with her and she is his captive. But she has a choice - give him her blood willingly, or he’ll take it by force.
There’s more to the story, but the primary focus is on Aaliyah and Demetri. Demetri blocks off his feelings, appearing cold and distant. He is a complicated man who is determined to keep Aaliyah alive - even if it hurts her. Meanwhile, Aaliyah is struggling with her growing desire for a man she should hate, and her own sěxual awakening.
As far as spice goes - it’s a slow burn, open door book. While their relationship has not progressed to its logical conclusion, there is definitely on page activity, and threatened/simulated grape in a CNC scene.
This is a violent story, with on-page graphic violence and t0rture. I would strongly recommend reading the trigger warnings list on the author’s website.
For those up to a challenge, this book is an adrenaline rush. I would absolutely recommend it to fans of PNR with the caveat that they read safely.
This is a *dark* PNR. Like, really dark. Not pitch black, for certain, but we’re beyond charcoal. If you have triggers, don’t read this book. If you can move past it, this is a heavy read but compelling.
The book is the first of a trilogy. There is a cliffhanger. We have not reached the lovers part of enemies to lovers yet. But book two won’t be too far away!
So the plot…Aaliyah is living a life she did not expect to live. After the death of her father five years ago, she’s been on the run from the vampires that killed him. She should have died, but her classmate Demetri let her go. Now her past has caught up with her and she is his captive. But she has a choice - give him her blood willingly, or he’ll take it by force.
There’s more to the story, but the primary focus is on Aaliyah and Demetri. Demetri blocks off his feelings, appearing cold and distant. He is a complicated man who is determined to keep Aaliyah alive - even if it hurts her. Meanwhile, Aaliyah is struggling with her growing desire for a man she should hate, and her own sěxual awakening.
As far as spice goes - it’s a slow burn, open door book. While their relationship has not progressed to its logical conclusion, there is definitely on page activity, and threatened/simulated grape in a CNC scene.
This is a violent story, with on-page graphic violence and t0rture. I would strongly recommend reading the trigger warnings list on the author’s website.
For those up to a challenge, this book is an adrenaline rush. I would absolutely recommend it to fans of PNR with the caveat that they read safely.
November 1, 2025
Read this book if you like:
-Morbid dark romance
-Can handle graphic dark scenes
-Love enemies to Lovers
-Wanna scream, blush and cry at the same time!!
This book is so well written! Daughter of a vampire hunter learns to survive the supernatural world. Just trying to stay alive she endures, suffering, loss, torture and even hope at times. Fear is the only consistent thing in her life...Even when she encounters her enemy Demetri. From the jump their "relationship" is complicated. He's the cold grumpy guy, he's very, for lack of better words, nonchalant. The way he has been written is tasteful, he at times can give mysterious BAD boy. Rose, the FMC, she is the strong fierce girl. She is strong and strategic until shes broken...
-DO be ware that there are gory scenes
-Heart strings will diffidently be pulled. Specifically chords of anxiety, suspense and sadness.
-The word choice for the banter is phenomenal!
-Each chapter ends so well written! Ur either smirking or in suspense.
The dynamic between Dimitri and Aaliyah is truly dynamic. As you’re reading the story, you can’t really tell Dimitri’s feelings but their interactions with one another will either make you scream or feel Aaliyah’s pain/anger.
Damn complex feelings and characters is definitely huge in this book!
DRAMAAAAAAAAAA GLALOREE
BROOO the way intimacy was written, chefs kiss!! It’s complicated, shy, scary, feels good. All the emotions of real intimacy and not just Willy nilly sex is embodied.
I really was so intrigued reading this book, I couldn't stop reading simply because I HAD to know what was gonna happen next.
-Morbid dark romance
-Can handle graphic dark scenes
-Love enemies to Lovers
-Wanna scream, blush and cry at the same time!!
This book is so well written! Daughter of a vampire hunter learns to survive the supernatural world. Just trying to stay alive she endures, suffering, loss, torture and even hope at times. Fear is the only consistent thing in her life...Even when she encounters her enemy Demetri. From the jump their "relationship" is complicated. He's the cold grumpy guy, he's very, for lack of better words, nonchalant. The way he has been written is tasteful, he at times can give mysterious BAD boy. Rose, the FMC, she is the strong fierce girl. She is strong and strategic until shes broken...
-DO be ware that there are gory scenes
-Heart strings will diffidently be pulled. Specifically chords of anxiety, suspense and sadness.
-The word choice for the banter is phenomenal!
-Each chapter ends so well written! Ur either smirking or in suspense.
The dynamic between Dimitri and Aaliyah is truly dynamic. As you’re reading the story, you can’t really tell Dimitri’s feelings but their interactions with one another will either make you scream or feel Aaliyah’s pain/anger.
Damn complex feelings and characters is definitely huge in this book!
DRAMAAAAAAAAAA GLALOREE
BROOO the way intimacy was written, chefs kiss!! It’s complicated, shy, scary, feels good. All the emotions of real intimacy and not just Willy nilly sex is embodied.
I really was so intrigued reading this book, I couldn't stop reading simply because I HAD to know what was gonna happen next.
October 27, 2025
Thanks to the author and publishing company for the ARC of this novel!
This book starts off pretty slow without too much context as to what's happening, and then quickly builds up toward a cliffhanger ending that I did not expect. The FMC goes through a wild emotional journey. I appreciate the fact that the vampires in the book are truly depraved, evil creatures that believe humans are filth and treat them as such - a refreshing take against the more romanticized versions in other novels. There is a massive metaphor for human trafficking, with vampires representing traffickers and the human females being disposable items. I recommend reviewing the trigger/content warnings, as this book is not shy about discomfort. I'm completely invested in this story, and I want to read the other two books as soon as I can!
Bound With Silence thrusts you into confinement as Aaliyah, a young woman who is captured despite successfully living as an escapee of a vampire attack on her town that left her orphaned. Having survived the vengeful slaughtering of her family five years prior and remaining unfound since, she finds herself captive by unknown persons. However, she finds herself released and placed in a luxurious home, with her new owner being none other than the son of the vampire who let her escape all those years ago. And she's now his to feed, whether she willingly give her blood or he takes it by force. And despite the better conditions of her new confinement in his home, whispers of his new toy make their rounds in the vampire community - and who she is threatens to end both their lives.
This book starts off pretty slow without too much context as to what's happening, and then quickly builds up toward a cliffhanger ending that I did not expect. The FMC goes through a wild emotional journey. I appreciate the fact that the vampires in the book are truly depraved, evil creatures that believe humans are filth and treat them as such - a refreshing take against the more romanticized versions in other novels. There is a massive metaphor for human trafficking, with vampires representing traffickers and the human females being disposable items. I recommend reviewing the trigger/content warnings, as this book is not shy about discomfort. I'm completely invested in this story, and I want to read the other two books as soon as I can!
Bound With Silence thrusts you into confinement as Aaliyah, a young woman who is captured despite successfully living as an escapee of a vampire attack on her town that left her orphaned. Having survived the vengeful slaughtering of her family five years prior and remaining unfound since, she finds herself captive by unknown persons. However, she finds herself released and placed in a luxurious home, with her new owner being none other than the son of the vampire who let her escape all those years ago. And she's now his to feed, whether she willingly give her blood or he takes it by force. And despite the better conditions of her new confinement in his home, whispers of his new toy make their rounds in the vampire community - and who she is threatens to end both their lives.
October 25, 2025
If i had to describe this book in 2 words it would be EMOTIONAL WHIPLASH.
Bound with Silence by Mariah L . Stevens is a dark story so PLEASE read the TRIGGER WARNINGS!
Description:
It’s been five years since Aaliyah William’s father died, and now, she lives at the bottom of a pit. There are other prisoners here with her, lying in the dark, waiting to be taken. When a familiar face from her past takes her from the pit, she has one goal: find a way to come back for her friends.
There’s just one problem.
Her new captor is a vampire who gives her two choices: give him her blood, or he will take it.
I was captivated by the relationship and character development of Demetri and Aaliyah; this definitely felt like character driven plot. Watching them navigate their intense emotions and reactions to each other was enthralling. They are a train wreck. He is morally black and she has been sucked into his world forcibly.
This book is spicy, dark, twisted and will leave you craving for more after that cliffhanger. As a word of caution, the spice can be triggering if you are sensitive. This is a dark, dark romance.
I can't wait to see where this story goes.
This book will be available on OCTOBER 30.
Thanks to Mariah L. Stevens for providing me with an eARC copy of the book. These thoughts are my own.
Bound with Silence by Mariah L . Stevens is a dark story so PLEASE read the TRIGGER WARNINGS!
Description:
It’s been five years since Aaliyah William’s father died, and now, she lives at the bottom of a pit. There are other prisoners here with her, lying in the dark, waiting to be taken. When a familiar face from her past takes her from the pit, she has one goal: find a way to come back for her friends.
There’s just one problem.
Her new captor is a vampire who gives her two choices: give him her blood, or he will take it.
I was captivated by the relationship and character development of Demetri and Aaliyah; this definitely felt like character driven plot. Watching them navigate their intense emotions and reactions to each other was enthralling. They are a train wreck. He is morally black and she has been sucked into his world forcibly.
This book is spicy, dark, twisted and will leave you craving for more after that cliffhanger. As a word of caution, the spice can be triggering if you are sensitive. This is a dark, dark romance.
I can't wait to see where this story goes.
This book will be available on OCTOBER 30.
Thanks to Mariah L. Stevens for providing me with an eARC copy of the book. These thoughts are my own.
October 30, 2025
Bound With Silence, book one in the Gilded Cage Trilogy, written by Mariah L. Stevens, is my first by this author. For spooky season, I wanted to really dive into more paranormal books, and with vampires, this one fit the bill. This fantasy is dark and delicious.
The book follows Aaliyah, the daughter of an infamous vampire hunter, who is captured and tortured. Aaliyah is fierce, strong, and hell bent on helping her friends. That is, if she can survive Demetri and his family. Demetri is a dark, brooding vampire enamored of Aaliyah.
The energy between Aaliyah and Demetri is electrifying. The power play between them is intoxicating. You are always on the edge of your seat, wondering if Demetri will turn on her or remain her protector. I love the human/vampire feeding dynamic - it’s incredibly sexy and very spicy!
The author did a great job of creating her own spin on vampires. I enjoyed the world-building and the politics. I enjoyed the complex relationship between Aaliyah and Demetri. The cliffhanger was a punch to the gut, and I am ready to dive into book two.
Thanks to Mariah L Stevens for gifting me an eARC of Bound With Silence. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The book follows Aaliyah, the daughter of an infamous vampire hunter, who is captured and tortured. Aaliyah is fierce, strong, and hell bent on helping her friends. That is, if she can survive Demetri and his family. Demetri is a dark, brooding vampire enamored of Aaliyah.
The energy between Aaliyah and Demetri is electrifying. The power play between them is intoxicating. You are always on the edge of your seat, wondering if Demetri will turn on her or remain her protector. I love the human/vampire feeding dynamic - it’s incredibly sexy and very spicy!
The author did a great job of creating her own spin on vampires. I enjoyed the world-building and the politics. I enjoyed the complex relationship between Aaliyah and Demetri. The cliffhanger was a punch to the gut, and I am ready to dive into book two.
Thanks to Mariah L Stevens for gifting me an eARC of Bound With Silence. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 16, 2025
I devoured this book. I received this book as an ARC reader, I honestly didn’t know what I was walking into, but Bound with Silence pulled me in and didn’t let go.
This dark fantasy romance had everything I love- dark vibes, fantasy, and that intense enemies-to-lovers tension. Demetri, a brooding Vampire/Witch hybrid hides his feelings and only shows Aaliyah glimpses of his true self. Their emotional ups and downs kept me completely hooked from start to finish.
What I really appreciated was how the book didn’t avoid the dark or intimate gritty details. The world is raw and emotional and the trauma both characters carry feels real. The story gives space for their struggles without glossing over the pain.
And then… that ending.
I thought I was emotionally prepared. I was not.
The cliffhanger hit like a punch —sudden, devastating, and unforgettable.
I NEED the next book.
If you love emotional, character-driven Romantasy with complex relationships and a mysterious male lead, Bound with Silence is a must read!
This dark fantasy romance had everything I love- dark vibes, fantasy, and that intense enemies-to-lovers tension. Demetri, a brooding Vampire/Witch hybrid hides his feelings and only shows Aaliyah glimpses of his true self. Their emotional ups and downs kept me completely hooked from start to finish.
What I really appreciated was how the book didn’t avoid the dark or intimate gritty details. The world is raw and emotional and the trauma both characters carry feels real. The story gives space for their struggles without glossing over the pain.
And then… that ending.
I thought I was emotionally prepared. I was not.
The cliffhanger hit like a punch —sudden, devastating, and unforgettable.
I NEED the next book.
If you love emotional, character-driven Romantasy with complex relationships and a mysterious male lead, Bound with Silence is a must read!
October 18, 2025
Oh my gosh, this book was so addicting and I couldn't put it down. I am a slow reader by nature and I finished it in two days and it left me reeling. I am absolutely stunned. I refused to read the teaser of the next book at the end, because I don't think i can take it. And I need it at the same time.
The entire relationship between Aaliyah and Demetribwas so inteiquing andcwritten perfectly. Hot and cold, gentle and cruel, the balance was ideal and it kept me in the edge of my seat. I can't believe it ended the way it did. i cant believe it. i cant. i cant. omg.
THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR THE WEAK AND SOFT HEARTED. THIS WILL BREAK YOU. I AM SO, SO BROKEN. WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO ME!
If you do enjoy dark and demented and kidnappy, captive - captor vibes. Vampire mages, violence, unexpected gentleness, a bit of stockholm syndrome, hot hot hot hot hot stuffs, this book is definitely for you.
I am giving it a full devoted 5 stars.
The entire relationship between Aaliyah and Demetribwas so inteiquing andcwritten perfectly. Hot and cold, gentle and cruel, the balance was ideal and it kept me in the edge of my seat. I can't believe it ended the way it did. i cant believe it. i cant. i cant. omg.
THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR THE WEAK AND SOFT HEARTED. THIS WILL BREAK YOU. I AM SO, SO BROKEN. WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO ME!
If you do enjoy dark and demented and kidnappy, captive - captor vibes. Vampire mages, violence, unexpected gentleness, a bit of stockholm syndrome, hot hot hot hot hot stuffs, this book is definitely for you.
I am giving it a full devoted 5 stars.
October 21, 2025
This book was an emotional 😭 rollercoaster 🎢 . Filled with emotional whip lash from the MMC🧛🏻. It is a dark story and not for the faint of heart❤️🔥. There are loose ends and I will be moving on to book 2 when it comes out.
I was enthralled by their relationship and character development; which felt like the main point of the plot. Watching these character navigate their intense emotions and reactions to each other was enthralling. They are a train wreck and I could not 👀 away. He is morally black 🖤 and she has been sucked into his world forcibly.
I’d give it 🌶️🌶️.5 on the spice scale, but we warned the spice can be triggering if you are sensitive. This is a dark, dark romance. 🖤🖤
Also book 1 ends on a major cliff hanger🧗🏽♀️, you have been warned lol, now go enjoy this wild insane crazy intense ride! 🖤🖤
⚠️100 percent mind the trigger warnings in this book, it is not a happy story and the characters experience a lot of physical and emotional turmoil.⚠️
I was enthralled by their relationship and character development; which felt like the main point of the plot. Watching these character navigate their intense emotions and reactions to each other was enthralling. They are a train wreck and I could not 👀 away. He is morally black 🖤 and she has been sucked into his world forcibly.
I’d give it 🌶️🌶️.5 on the spice scale, but we warned the spice can be triggering if you are sensitive. This is a dark, dark romance. 🖤🖤
Also book 1 ends on a major cliff hanger🧗🏽♀️, you have been warned lol, now go enjoy this wild insane crazy intense ride! 🖤🖤
⚠️100 percent mind the trigger warnings in this book, it is not a happy story and the characters experience a lot of physical and emotional turmoil.⚠️
November 4, 2025
"I'll give you two choices, Williams," he says upon the back of a sigh. "You give me your blood, or I take it. Either way, I won't starve with you in this house."
Damn what did I read, bound with silence held me in its grasp like it was a vampire compelling me to not put it down until I finished it.
The story is well written and flows like a blood vein. The characters were only a few but have fire and so much depth to them. Love the mfc Aaliyah and mmc Demetri and I can’t wait for book 2!
It’s a dark dystopian with so many triggers so definitely read through the trigger list before you embark on this trilogy.
- enemies to lovers
- captive
- hidden angst
- vampire x human
- broody
- morally grey
- spicy 🌶️
If you love dark books and have no triggers I’d say this is up your alley and to add it to your TBR right away. If you do just check the list first but still add it to your TBR if it fits.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Damn what did I read, bound with silence held me in its grasp like it was a vampire compelling me to not put it down until I finished it.
The story is well written and flows like a blood vein. The characters were only a few but have fire and so much depth to them. Love the mfc Aaliyah and mmc Demetri and I can’t wait for book 2!
It’s a dark dystopian with so many triggers so definitely read through the trigger list before you embark on this trilogy.
- enemies to lovers
- captive
- hidden angst
- vampire x human
- broody
- morally grey
- spicy 🌶️
If you love dark books and have no triggers I’d say this is up your alley and to add it to your TBR right away. If you do just check the list first but still add it to your TBR if it fits.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
🌶️🌶️🌶️
January 2, 2026
2.5 stars. I had such high hopes for this book... however despite some very delicious smut scenes, I didn't find much else redeeming in this book. The writing wasn't terrible but wasn't great either, with a lot of "tell not show" moments and the characters felt rather flat. While it's definitely dark and enemies to lovers, so it's not like Demetri is supposed to be likable from the beginning, his actions often infuriated me with how poorly he treated Aaliyah (why promise to remove the false traumatizing memories after going to Denizen's estate and then just have a mantrum and abandon her instead??). Aaliyah also gave me whiplash contradicting herself about how she felt about Demetri in every scene. There was also a lot about their backstory and the world that felt vague and poorly explained. Overall if you like spicy, dark vampire smut it's worth a read for that aspect, but I'm not sure if I'm going to be continuing the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2025
Aaliyah Williams is pulled from a dark prisoner's pit by a familiar face, only to find herself captive to a vampire. Her life is now a brutal choice: give him her blood, or he takes it. Her only goal is to find a way back for the friends she left behind.
I loved this fresh take on the vampire-human feeder dynamic. Demetri is a fascinating, cruel, yet strangely tender character. The despair and helplessness both characters endure is intense, and I devoured every second.
A Crucial Note of Caution
Please heed the trigger warnings before diving into this delicious book. The warnings are serious. This is a genuinely dark novel, and readers who are sensitive to intense themes or easily fall into their own despair should approach with care.
I loved this fresh take on the vampire-human feeder dynamic. Demetri is a fascinating, cruel, yet strangely tender character. The despair and helplessness both characters endure is intense, and I devoured every second.
A Crucial Note of Caution
Please heed the trigger warnings before diving into this delicious book. The warnings are serious. This is a genuinely dark novel, and readers who are sensitive to intense themes or easily fall into their own despair should approach with care.
October 28, 2025
3.5 ⭐
I just finished this book and my mind honestly is unsure on how to feel. That cliffhanger did me in! Overall I liked the book, and it is important to check your triggers. If you're looking for a true dark beauty and the beast retelling involving vampires, then this is the book for you! These are very political and vulgar vampires. No sparkling over here!
To me this book is not a romance. It is a push and pull game of survival and politics. There is lust and attraction, but there is a lot going on behind the scenes.
The FMC is put through excruciating experiences and the MMC has some explaining to do.
I am excited to see what happens in this next book! thank you so much for sending this ARC.
I just finished this book and my mind honestly is unsure on how to feel. That cliffhanger did me in! Overall I liked the book, and it is important to check your triggers. If you're looking for a true dark beauty and the beast retelling involving vampires, then this is the book for you! These are very political and vulgar vampires. No sparkling over here!
To me this book is not a romance. It is a push and pull game of survival and politics. There is lust and attraction, but there is a lot going on behind the scenes.
The FMC is put through excruciating experiences and the MMC has some explaining to do.
I am excited to see what happens in this next book! thank you so much for sending this ARC.
October 30, 2025
From the very first page, this book caught me off guard—in the best way possible. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the dedication alone sparked my curiosity. As I dove deeper, I found myself swept into a narrative that felt like a Dramonie -fueled dream—only sharper, more vivid, and far more compelling.
The pacing is relentless, the storytelling immersive, and just when you think you’ve found your footing, the ending hits like a literary sucker punch. I literally found myself flipping back and forth, stunned, thinking: WTF—where is the rest?!
This book doesn’t just entertain—it hijacks your attention and refuses to let go. An absolute must-read for anyone who loves stories that surprise, unsettle, and linger long after the final page.
The pacing is relentless, the storytelling immersive, and just when you think you’ve found your footing, the ending hits like a literary sucker punch. I literally found myself flipping back and forth, stunned, thinking: WTF—where is the rest?!
This book doesn’t just entertain—it hijacks your attention and refuses to let go. An absolute must-read for anyone who loves stories that surprise, unsettle, and linger long after the final page.
October 30, 2025
I’ve never been into vampire books—so when I received this ARC, I was skeptical. But from the very first page, this story sank its teeth into me and refused to let go.
The two main characters are brilliantly written, their chemistry electric. Their banter? Sharp, effortless, and addictive. This book had me laughing out loud, groaning in frustration, holding my breath, and silently begging for things to turn out okay. And just when I thought I could relax—it hit me with a cliffhanger that left me reeling.
A word of caution: read the trigger warnings. Every one of them is there for a reason. The world is immersive, the emotions raw, and the themes intense.
Why four stars instead of five? Only because I need the sequel now. That ending? I’m still recovering.
October 31, 2025
Dark, deprived, snarky, and emotional. This book dragged you through the emotions even if you weren’t fully prepared for them. Aaliyah and Demetri are two broken people/vampire that are holding themselves together the best they can. They have both been through horrible experiences but are determined to keep moving forward.
Demetri’s affection(?), with Aaliyah is slightly heartbreaking. It’s like the wishes they were in different situations but they aren’t. He still needs and wants her blood and she is still held against her will.
This was such a gripping tale. It kept me interested from start to finish. The characters were well developed. The banter was snarky and entertaining. I will definitely have to look for more books by Mariah.
Be sure to check your trigger warnings!
Demetri’s affection(?), with Aaliyah is slightly heartbreaking. It’s like the wishes they were in different situations but they aren’t. He still needs and wants her blood and she is still held against her will.
This was such a gripping tale. It kept me interested from start to finish. The characters were well developed. The banter was snarky and entertaining. I will definitely have to look for more books by Mariah.
Be sure to check your trigger warnings!
November 3, 2025
I got this as an arc and was sold from the cover art and dark fantasy vibes. This is not a bad book by any means but it is not at all what I thought I was getting after reading the promotion. From the first few pages I struggled to get into it because I was unsure if it was being narrated or in first person. After a few chapters I was used to it and was able to try to get into the story a lot better. It starts out pretty slow but was a nice setup for world building. Demetri is your typical dark romance MMC which I love so much. However Aaliyah gives me teenage girl vibes and is whiny for someone who is 25. The "spicy" scenes were a bit awkward imo and honestly felt forced into the book it read very high school like. The book overall it was ok and I might consider reading book 2.
November 10, 2025
Wow! This story took my heart and emotions on such a journey! I cried for all the brutality, torment and pain Aaliyah goes through. And then there’s Demetri. I want to dislike him but he cares for Aaliyah so much but also can’t let it show. I found myself rooting for him throughout the story to admit his true feelings but was left sadly unfulfilled.
There were moments when Denizen was scrutinizing their memories and I was afraid the memory that Melody hid earlier would surface and ruin their plan of deception.
The ending! What?? Please tell me that was just a nightmare Aaliyah was having!
I received a free advanced copy to read and am willingly leaving this review.
I recommend this book 100%. Go read it!
There were moments when Denizen was scrutinizing their memories and I was afraid the memory that Melody hid earlier would surface and ruin their plan of deception.
The ending! What?? Please tell me that was just a nightmare Aaliyah was having!
I received a free advanced copy to read and am willingly leaving this review.
I recommend this book 100%. Go read it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2025
I loved this dark world and the dynamic between the main 2 characters, it was a Rollercoaster of emotions and it was a disaster that you couldn't tear your eyes away from.
Aaliyah and Demetri navigate the beginning of their journey to keep her hidden from Denizen, the leader of Demetri's vampire coven who wants her dead to end her bloodline.
Aaliyah is pretty much Demetris prisoner in his house, she can either give her blood willingly or he will take it by force. Their relationship is complicated and she plays along in hope her friends get rescued from the pit she was in.
This book ended on a big cliff hanger so I can't wait to read what comes next.
Aaliyah and Demetri navigate the beginning of their journey to keep her hidden from Denizen, the leader of Demetri's vampire coven who wants her dead to end her bloodline.
Aaliyah is pretty much Demetris prisoner in his house, she can either give her blood willingly or he will take it by force. Their relationship is complicated and she plays along in hope her friends get rescued from the pit she was in.
This book ended on a big cliff hanger so I can't wait to read what comes next.
November 8, 2025
ARC read: This series is going to have me in a chokehold, I just know it.
A dark fantasy vampire/human romance where the MCs know each other from college, but didn’t really interact all that much. Our MMC Demetri, a vampire, is a dark, broody, emotionally stunted “saviour” and the FMC Aaliyah is inquisitive and painfully human with a sprinkling of trauma.
The tension between these two is unreal and you are desperately left wanting, in the best way.
The cliffhanger killed me, I kept flipping the pages to check there was nothing else! I am absolutely eagerly awaiting book 2 to find out what happened.
A dark fantasy vampire/human romance where the MCs know each other from college, but didn’t really interact all that much. Our MMC Demetri, a vampire, is a dark, broody, emotionally stunted “saviour” and the FMC Aaliyah is inquisitive and painfully human with a sprinkling of trauma.
The tension between these two is unreal and you are desperately left wanting, in the best way.
The cliffhanger killed me, I kept flipping the pages to check there was nothing else! I am absolutely eagerly awaiting book 2 to find out what happened.
November 25, 2025
As always, be sure to read any trigger warnings. No really.
This fast paced and intense start to the Gilded Cage Trilogy left me wanting more. I'd describe this as a dark paranormal romance with hints of Beauty and the Beast vibes. The quintessential morally grey hero (more like tortured anti-hero?), fighting for survival heroine trying to make it in this new-to-her paranormal world. I can't wait to read more.
So if you're into the Beauty and the Beast vibes, in a true dark romance, paranormal world - with well written and intense, but complicated, relationships - Mariah Stevens does not disappoint.
This fast paced and intense start to the Gilded Cage Trilogy left me wanting more. I'd describe this as a dark paranormal romance with hints of Beauty and the Beast vibes. The quintessential morally grey hero (more like tortured anti-hero?), fighting for survival heroine trying to make it in this new-to-her paranormal world. I can't wait to read more.
So if you're into the Beauty and the Beast vibes, in a true dark romance, paranormal world - with well written and intense, but complicated, relationships - Mariah Stevens does not disappoint.
November 30, 2025
When a book has vampires in it, I’m totally in!
I love this kind of vampire — the ones with a beating heart — and the political intrigue that unfolds throughout the story.
The FMC is a really strong human with a very dark past, while the MMC is so frustrating! But OMG, the yearning is everything you could wish for and more.
I’m really glad the second book is already available because this is one of the best books I’ve read in years. The writing and world-building are so well done — truly amazing.
The way Mariah develops the characters, sets the scenes, and conveys the FMC’s thoughts is just perfect.
More from this trilogy and this author, please!
I love this kind of vampire — the ones with a beating heart — and the political intrigue that unfolds throughout the story.
The FMC is a really strong human with a very dark past, while the MMC is so frustrating! But OMG, the yearning is everything you could wish for and more.
I’m really glad the second book is already available because this is one of the best books I’ve read in years. The writing and world-building are so well done — truly amazing.
The way Mariah develops the characters, sets the scenes, and conveys the FMC’s thoughts is just perfect.
More from this trilogy and this author, please!
October 18, 2025
OH MY! What a read this was. if you love the supernatural, Witches, covens, Vampire's and magic then this book is for you!
This was AMAZING, I loved every minute of this book, the story line, the suspense, the up close and personal moments with a splash of spicy🖤 I was on the edge of my seat, with my heart in my throat like WTF!
•“I’ll have your tears by the time I’m done with you. I can promise you that.”
•"They're glorified kidnappers. Monsters".
💀Eniemies to Lovers.
🖤Forced Proximity.
💀Dark Romance.
🖤Spicy.
💀Vampires.
🖤Magic.
This was AMAZING, I loved every minute of this book, the story line, the suspense, the up close and personal moments with a splash of spicy🖤 I was on the edge of my seat, with my heart in my throat like WTF!
•“I’ll have your tears by the time I’m done with you. I can promise you that.”
•"They're glorified kidnappers. Monsters".
💀Eniemies to Lovers.
🖤Forced Proximity.
💀Dark Romance.
🖤Spicy.
💀Vampires.
🖤Magic.
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