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Shadowbound
Reyva Bergmont awaits an execution she doesn’t deserve…
Being high-born means she’s given a death by axe or exile to the bloodthirsty vampire community known as the Hive. After years of unhappiness concealing her taboo magical abilities, Reyva is ready to greet death, but when her loved ones are threatened with a similar fate, she sacrifices herself.
This glittering, nocturnal world wraps its arms around Reyva, seating her at the right hand of the ruling regent. Not only is she his future queen, but a key piece in a vampiric prophecy — not one all immortals want fulfilled. Amidst political turmoil, Reyva finds herself entangled in a steamy romance, surfacing familiar temptations from her past.
In the end, will she submit to another courts’ view of who she ought to be, or will she forge a new life — wholly on her own terms — among the shadows?
Being high-born means she’s given a death by axe or exile to the bloodthirsty vampire community known as the Hive. After years of unhappiness concealing her taboo magical abilities, Reyva is ready to greet death, but when her loved ones are threatened with a similar fate, she sacrifices herself.
This glittering, nocturnal world wraps its arms around Reyva, seating her at the right hand of the ruling regent. Not only is she his future queen, but a key piece in a vampiric prophecy — not one all immortals want fulfilled. Amidst political turmoil, Reyva finds herself entangled in a steamy romance, surfacing familiar temptations from her past.
In the end, will she submit to another courts’ view of who she ought to be, or will she forge a new life — wholly on her own terms — among the shadows?
432 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 6, 2026
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July 5, 2026𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ ── pre-read
saw some art on instagram and was immediately convinced 🙂↕️ vampires and a sorceress who's accused of murder !! i fear this is going to be amazing
out july 6!!
thank you gabby for the eARC!
saw some art on instagram and was immediately convinced 🙂↕️ vampires and a sorceress who's accused of murder !! i fear this is going to be amazing
out july 6!!
thank you gabby for the eARC!
June 18, 2026
“𝙃𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙤, 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙮.”
𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 by Gabby Grahek
5☆
Give me a human FMC that chooses to live in a vampire hive over public execution and suddenly I’m putting my phone on DND because I have plans for the ENTIRE evening.
Reyva, our FMC, begins this story broken by grief, betrayal, and a future that she’s already accepted is over. However, what I LIVED for in her journey was watching her transformation throughout the book. She starts out ready to surrender to her fate, but ends up fiercely fighting for the people she loves, her own choices, and the life she wants. Her character growth was easily the highlight of the story for me.
“𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙨𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚. 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙨𝙪𝙗𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚…𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚, 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚.”
And the men? Good grief.
Rhazien is charming, attentive, thoughtful, and almost suspiciously perfect. Meanwhile, Dommik is the scarred, broken, morally questionable vampire who had me kicking my feet and blushing like a little school girl. The tension between these men, Reyva, and the future of the Hive kept me FANTASTICALLY trapped in the pages.
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙧𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚. 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨. 𝙏𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬, 𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮.”
What I especially appreciated was how grounded the characters felt. Reyva isn’t some invincible heroine. She’s messy, emotional, grieving, hungry, angry, hopeful, and beautifully human. The romance is phenomenally delicious, the spice enhancing rather than overtaking the story, and every slower moment served the character development.
“𝘿𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙭𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
The worldbuilding is dark, immersive, and wonderfully easy to sink into. Between the political intrigue, suspiciously hidden agendas, forbidden attraction, and jaw-dropping betrayals, I was completely invested. More than once I thought I knew where things were headed… and then I learned that was a betrayal of my own making.
“𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙄’𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙚.”
Dark, addictive, and packed with secrets, vampires, and a heroine who learns how to reclaim her own power, 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 left me DESPERATELY ready for book two.
*Thank you to Gabby Grahek for this arc opportunity.
𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 by Gabby Grahek
5☆
Give me a human FMC that chooses to live in a vampire hive over public execution and suddenly I’m putting my phone on DND because I have plans for the ENTIRE evening.
Reyva, our FMC, begins this story broken by grief, betrayal, and a future that she’s already accepted is over. However, what I LIVED for in her journey was watching her transformation throughout the book. She starts out ready to surrender to her fate, but ends up fiercely fighting for the people she loves, her own choices, and the life she wants. Her character growth was easily the highlight of the story for me.
“𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙨𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚. 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙨𝙪𝙗𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚…𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚, 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚.”
And the men? Good grief.
Rhazien is charming, attentive, thoughtful, and almost suspiciously perfect. Meanwhile, Dommik is the scarred, broken, morally questionable vampire who had me kicking my feet and blushing like a little school girl. The tension between these men, Reyva, and the future of the Hive kept me FANTASTICALLY trapped in the pages.
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙧𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚. 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨. 𝙏𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬, 𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮.”
What I especially appreciated was how grounded the characters felt. Reyva isn’t some invincible heroine. She’s messy, emotional, grieving, hungry, angry, hopeful, and beautifully human. The romance is phenomenally delicious, the spice enhancing rather than overtaking the story, and every slower moment served the character development.
“𝘿𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙭𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
The worldbuilding is dark, immersive, and wonderfully easy to sink into. Between the political intrigue, suspiciously hidden agendas, forbidden attraction, and jaw-dropping betrayals, I was completely invested. More than once I thought I knew where things were headed… and then I learned that was a betrayal of my own making.
“𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙄’𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙚.”
Dark, addictive, and packed with secrets, vampires, and a heroine who learns how to reclaim her own power, 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 left me DESPERATELY ready for book two.
*Thank you to Gabby Grahek for this arc opportunity.
July 8, 2026
Omg, where do I even start with this book?! It has honestly left me speechless, I think it’s because I loved it so much I don’t know what to say. I could not put it down. I stayed up late and woke up early on work days just to read it. And when I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about it, so yea I’m a little obsessed. 😂 The characters in this book were perfectly complex and had so much depth. The love triangle was so well done. The tension, the yearning, the betrayals, the spice. 🥵 SO GOOD. That’s about has much thoughts I can muster, you just need to read it for yourself!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you for much to the author for the arc! I am so honored to have read your debut novel and am so excited to continue the series!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you for much to the author for the arc! I am so honored to have read your debut novel and am so excited to continue the series!
June 26, 2026
Review of advance copy received from the author
Welcome to The Hive!
This is the first time I received an ARC and boy I’m happy it was this book.
I was hooked right from the beginning as we wait for our FMC Reyva to meet her death by axe. She’s already made her choice: better dead than living the rest of her life as a slave in the vampire realm. Confident (although sometimes insecure) about her decision, she has some time to kill while waiting for her sentence. Do you know what she’s doing? Well… read the book to find out. I for sure didn’t expect that. What she does and who she meets after that sets the scene for a story about survival, self-discovery, and finding love amidst chaos.
I loved Reyva from the beginning and discovered she is bossy, fun, and sarcastic. Let some of her quotes speak for themselves:
“But I ignored the long-standing, deep-rooted training in how to be a ‘good woman’ for men. No. His feelings were his own to manage.”
“I didn’t know how to fight, it’s not ladylike to wield weaponry. Command a household? Now that, I could do.”
MMC: “May I propose something?”
Reyva: “As long as it’s not marriage,”
But she is far from perfect.
Caught between two love interests she also becomes vain and insecure. Conflicting feelings that some might find annoying, but the author did such a great job portraying Reyva, making her feel real, like any other of us would if we were in the same place.
The plot had me in a chokehold the whole time wanting to know what happens next. I did not expect any of the plot twists and the ending? Sign me up for book 2.
I don’t want to spoil too much the MMCs. I think the reading experience is so much better if you go blind on it and discover them at your own pace.
But I will tell this: there are some spicy scenes in this book that made me question my entire personality. So well done. Like I didn’t know that something I would normally find disgusting could be so hot.
Thank you Gabby Grahek for this ARC. I absolutely loved the story.
Welcome to The Hive!
This is the first time I received an ARC and boy I’m happy it was this book.
I was hooked right from the beginning as we wait for our FMC Reyva to meet her death by axe. She’s already made her choice: better dead than living the rest of her life as a slave in the vampire realm. Confident (although sometimes insecure) about her decision, she has some time to kill while waiting for her sentence. Do you know what she’s doing? Well… read the book to find out. I for sure didn’t expect that. What she does and who she meets after that sets the scene for a story about survival, self-discovery, and finding love amidst chaos.
I loved Reyva from the beginning and discovered she is bossy, fun, and sarcastic. Let some of her quotes speak for themselves:
“But I ignored the long-standing, deep-rooted training in how to be a ‘good woman’ for men. No. His feelings were his own to manage.”
“I didn’t know how to fight, it’s not ladylike to wield weaponry. Command a household? Now that, I could do.”
MMC: “May I propose something?”
Reyva: “As long as it’s not marriage,”
But she is far from perfect.
Caught between two love interests she also becomes vain and insecure. Conflicting feelings that some might find annoying, but the author did such a great job portraying Reyva, making her feel real, like any other of us would if we were in the same place.
The plot had me in a chokehold the whole time wanting to know what happens next. I did not expect any of the plot twists and the ending? Sign me up for book 2.
I don’t want to spoil too much the MMCs. I think the reading experience is so much better if you go blind on it and discover them at your own pace.
But I will tell this: there are some spicy scenes in this book that made me question my entire personality. So well done. Like I didn’t know that something I would normally find disgusting could be so hot.
Thank you Gabby Grahek for this ARC. I absolutely loved the story.
July 7, 2026
The chokehold this book had me in! 🥵I devoured this book, and I’m ready for more!
“I’d seen dozens of beheadings in my thirty-three years, but I’d never considered practicing for my own.”
From this opening line, the author, Gabby Grahek, grabbed my attention and held it for the duration of the book. The world-building was both accessible and fascinating with a fresh take on vampires and their society. The politics and hidden agendas of this society added an intriguing plot layer in addition to the romance.
The romance is explored through a well-executed love triangle. Reyva, the FMC, is torn between a guard, Dommik, and the Regent, Rhazien. The complications of this love triangle are believable due to the complex characters Gabby creates. Reyva is one of the best parts of Shadowbound. A heroine in her thirties, Reyva has navigated many difficulties in her life. Accused for a crime she didn’t commit, Reyva considers accepting the axe due to all the times the world has failed her. When she is blackmailed into joining the vampire society to protect her family, she enters it with her eyes wide open. She questions everything and is intent on learning all she can about her new world. This exploration is the foundation for her relationship with both Dommik and Rhazien. The juxtaposition between the easy-going Rhazien vs. the mysterious Dommik provides tension for both Reyva and the reader.
The humor in this book also deserves a special mention as it provided some of the most quotable lines! My favorite moments included using bread as a weapon and the continued focus on prayer. 😉
Shadowbound is easily a top read for me this year and Gabby is a new voice I’m eager to hear more of! If you enjoy vampires, love triangles, and “touch her and die” vibes, this books is for you!
Thank you to Gabby and her team for the opportunity to read this ARC! 💕
“I’d seen dozens of beheadings in my thirty-three years, but I’d never considered practicing for my own.”
From this opening line, the author, Gabby Grahek, grabbed my attention and held it for the duration of the book. The world-building was both accessible and fascinating with a fresh take on vampires and their society. The politics and hidden agendas of this society added an intriguing plot layer in addition to the romance.
The romance is explored through a well-executed love triangle. Reyva, the FMC, is torn between a guard, Dommik, and the Regent, Rhazien. The complications of this love triangle are believable due to the complex characters Gabby creates. Reyva is one of the best parts of Shadowbound. A heroine in her thirties, Reyva has navigated many difficulties in her life. Accused for a crime she didn’t commit, Reyva considers accepting the axe due to all the times the world has failed her. When she is blackmailed into joining the vampire society to protect her family, she enters it with her eyes wide open. She questions everything and is intent on learning all she can about her new world. This exploration is the foundation for her relationship with both Dommik and Rhazien. The juxtaposition between the easy-going Rhazien vs. the mysterious Dommik provides tension for both Reyva and the reader.
The humor in this book also deserves a special mention as it provided some of the most quotable lines! My favorite moments included using bread as a weapon and the continued focus on prayer. 😉
Shadowbound is easily a top read for me this year and Gabby is a new voice I’m eager to hear more of! If you enjoy vampires, love triangles, and “touch her and die” vibes, this books is for you!
Thank you to Gabby and her team for the opportunity to read this ARC! 💕
June 19, 2026
*4.5 stars* I really enjoyed this read, a big thank you to the author for this advanced copy! For a debut book already over 500 pages, I found myself wanting more. Like give me more information on this world we’re in, the characters I’m reading about, the magic system in place, give me more of Reyva using her magic! Because of that desire to learn more about this world, I quickly devoured this.
I also enjoyed the push and pull Reyva was experiencing between our two MMCs, Dommik and Rhazien. I’m glad Rey went down the path I wanted her to in the end, even if I knew that’s where we would go right away😂 This was also my first vampire read and as someone new to this branch of the genre it was super easy to understand the Hive dynamics and some of the more nuanced aspects of the vampire culture.
All of this goes to say I thoroughly enjoyed this read, the storyline was interesting, the spice was perfectly spicy, and it has left me wanting more. The writing style was simple, but not overly so, which made the reading experience quite easy. Congrats on a great debut, Gabby! Kicking off sexy vampire summer the right way!
I also enjoyed the push and pull Reyva was experiencing between our two MMCs, Dommik and Rhazien. I’m glad Rey went down the path I wanted her to in the end, even if I knew that’s where we would go right away😂 This was also my first vampire read and as someone new to this branch of the genre it was super easy to understand the Hive dynamics and some of the more nuanced aspects of the vampire culture.
All of this goes to say I thoroughly enjoyed this read, the storyline was interesting, the spice was perfectly spicy, and it has left me wanting more. The writing style was simple, but not overly so, which made the reading experience quite easy. Congrats on a great debut, Gabby! Kicking off sexy vampire summer the right way!
July 11, 2026
Lovely, if you're looking for your next vampire obsession, this is it.
I stayed up late three nights in a row reading this book, and I'd do it all again in a heartbeat! I haven't been this infatuated with a vampire story since my preteen Twilight era, and wow, this one was on an entirely different level. Higher stakes, epic love stories, and fantastic world-building!
Reyva is awaiting her execution when she receives an unexpected visit from a mysterious Traveler offering her a chance at life. Forced to choose the unknown to save the people she loves, she's thrown into the confusing, alluring, often horrifying, yet strangely magical world of the vampire Hive. Along the way, she's forced to make impossible choices, confront her deepest fears, and navigate jealous lovers.
This dark romantasy has everything you could want: high stakes, a love triangle, bloodthirsty vampires, sorceress powers, plenty of "praying" (you'll understand later, trust me), political intrigue, an obsession with bread (obviously), glamorous courtship, a truly horrifying villain, a man who would burn the world for her, and one of the most unique vampire societies I've read.
I experienced awe, horror, adoration, and complete shock throughout this story, and I'd happily sign up for this emotional rollercoaster again. The last 100 pages were impossible to put down, and I already can't wait for the sequel!
Thank you to Gabby Grahek for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I stayed up late three nights in a row reading this book, and I'd do it all again in a heartbeat! I haven't been this infatuated with a vampire story since my preteen Twilight era, and wow, this one was on an entirely different level. Higher stakes, epic love stories, and fantastic world-building!
Reyva is awaiting her execution when she receives an unexpected visit from a mysterious Traveler offering her a chance at life. Forced to choose the unknown to save the people she loves, she's thrown into the confusing, alluring, often horrifying, yet strangely magical world of the vampire Hive. Along the way, she's forced to make impossible choices, confront her deepest fears, and navigate jealous lovers.
This dark romantasy has everything you could want: high stakes, a love triangle, bloodthirsty vampires, sorceress powers, plenty of "praying" (you'll understand later, trust me), political intrigue, an obsession with bread (obviously), glamorous courtship, a truly horrifying villain, a man who would burn the world for her, and one of the most unique vampire societies I've read.
I experienced awe, horror, adoration, and complete shock throughout this story, and I'd happily sign up for this emotional rollercoaster again. The last 100 pages were impossible to put down, and I already can't wait for the sequel!
Thank you to Gabby Grahek for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
June 28, 2026
“‘But you see me.’ My body went molten as it fell under his heated glare. ‘And I see you. All of you. And I’m here anyways.’”
Vampires
Witches
Magic
Love triangle
Royalty
Touch her and die energy
Betrayal
Redemption
After her husband untimely demise Reyva was accuse of murder and called a sorceress and given the choice between execution or being sent to the Hive (a vampire colony), she chose the Hive.
Once arriving to the Hive it’s not the desolate prison cell with monsters around every corner like she imagined. She has just traded a dungeon for a guilded cell with monsters hiding in plain sight.
Told that she was the only one able to bring peace. Her magic, her gift is the only thing able to stop a devastating war.
From prisoner to potential queen in the span of a few days.
Stuck between the want of a king and the love of a solider.
Let the battle for the fate of humanity begin.
“My shield. My sword. My forest and flame. My absolute ruin.”
Vampires
Witches
Magic
Love triangle
Royalty
Touch her and die energy
Betrayal
Redemption
After her husband untimely demise Reyva was accuse of murder and called a sorceress and given the choice between execution or being sent to the Hive (a vampire colony), she chose the Hive.
Once arriving to the Hive it’s not the desolate prison cell with monsters around every corner like she imagined. She has just traded a dungeon for a guilded cell with monsters hiding in plain sight.
Told that she was the only one able to bring peace. Her magic, her gift is the only thing able to stop a devastating war.
From prisoner to potential queen in the span of a few days.
Stuck between the want of a king and the love of a solider.
Let the battle for the fate of humanity begin.
“My shield. My sword. My forest and flame. My absolute ruin.”
July 12, 2026
This gave me True Blood vibes with the love triangle (but both choices were better than Bill Compton) but make it more regency. We’ve got a vampire regent, his commander, and a widowed sorceress. Our FMC isn’t necessarily naive, but she’s definitely uniformed. The regent wants her to fulfill a prophecy. And the commander who is a consent king. There’s high stakes, vampire court politics, pretty dresses, and plenty of spice. I thought the magic was interesting and the vampires were plenty bloodthirsty. I’m going to need book two to see where the author takes these characters and what kind of chaos the loose ends from book one create.
Thank you to the author for my arc. All opinions are my own.
June 30, 2026
hello lovely,
There is just something I love about vampire books and this one is another perfect example!
if you are looking for a FMC that knows no fear look no further
if you are looking for a MMC that yearns and fights his feelings look no further
if you are looking for a WTF plot twist that will catch you off guard look no further
without giving away the scene.. there was a particular spicy scene in this book that made me say well now every other time its been a yuck for me but this is the only time for me it works (HAHA dont judge)
I could sit here and write about how much I loved this FMC - she is such a badass and I can write about my favorite MMC but honestly you can decide who you like best ;) Gabby said it best herself - its a problem for 400 something pages lol
Review of Advanced Reader Copy
There is just something I love about vampire books and this one is another perfect example!
if you are looking for a FMC that knows no fear look no further
if you are looking for a MMC that yearns and fights his feelings look no further
if you are looking for a WTF plot twist that will catch you off guard look no further
without giving away the scene.. there was a particular spicy scene in this book that made me say well now every other time its been a yuck for me but this is the only time for me it works (HAHA dont judge)
I could sit here and write about how much I loved this FMC - she is such a badass and I can write about my favorite MMC but honestly you can decide who you like best ;) Gabby said it best herself - its a problem for 400 something pages lol
Review of Advanced Reader Copy
June 18, 2026
Advanced Reader Copy received from the author
Page one had me hooked! Gabby writes like she has written a thousand books. The world building, the attention to detail, the suspense and most of all the intense love is perfect. Once you think you know what’s happening…you don’t. Think you’ve decided which mmc you like…don’t be so sure! I highly HIGHLY recommend Shadowbound and I cannot wait to have this on my shelf!
Page one had me hooked! Gabby writes like she has written a thousand books. The world building, the attention to detail, the suspense and most of all the intense love is perfect. Once you think you know what’s happening…you don’t. Think you’ve decided which mmc you like…don’t be so sure! I highly HIGHLY recommend Shadowbound and I cannot wait to have this on my shelf!
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
“You've ruined me. I'm wholly yours. Today, tomorrow, infinitely.”
The moment I saw vampires, magic, political intrigue, and morally grey men, I KNEW this book was going to have me in a chokehold. Shadowbound completely pulled me into its world from the very first chapter.
“I had been silenced before. I had submitted before... But this time, I would fight. And I would live.”
Revya Bergmont is a highborn noblewoman who has already accepted that her life is over. Accused of witchcraft and of murdering her husband, she is sentenced to death; she's given only two choices: the axe... or exile to the Hive, a kingdom ruled by vampires. What starts as a journey she never wanted slowly becomes one where she learns to stop living for everyone else's expectations and finally starts choosing for herself.
What I loved most about Revya was her growth. Throughout the book, everyone wanted something from her. Her gift. Her loyalty. Her obedience. Her power. But very few people ever stopped to ask what she wanted. Watching her go from accepting whatever fate was handed to her to finally fighting for her own choices was easily one of my favourite parts of the story.
She wasn't perfect. She was grieving, confused, stubborn at times, and occasionally made me want to shake her. But she felt HUMAN. Every decision she made came from a place of fear, hope, love, or desperation, and that made me root for her even harder.
And then... Dommik Throne. THIS. MAN.
“I, Dommik Throne, offer my shadow to you.”
The second he appeared, I was done for. Whenever I read vampire romances, my brain automatically compares everyone to The Vampire Diaries, and Dommik was giving me Damon Salvatore energy from page one.
CCocky, sarcastic, protective, morally questionable... and somehow completely impossible not to love. I knew almost immediately that he was going to be my favourite character.
What I loved most about him was that he never treated Revya like someone who needed saving. He challenged her, frustrated her, protected her when it mattered, and somehow every interaction between them had me smiling like an idiot.
The banter? Amazing. The tension? INSANE. The chemistry? I was DONE FOR.
“There is a darkness in me that threatens to break free when it comes to matters concerning you.”
And don't even get me started on the yearning because THAT is what got me. Not the flirting. Not the banter. The YEARNING.
The constant push and pull. The jealousy. The things left unsaid. The stolen moments. The feeling that both of them wanted something they believed they could never have.
“Death would be kinder than existing in such torturous proximity to you.”
EXCUSE ME??? How was I supposed to read that and remain calm?
“You really love me?”
“Yes.”
“How do you know?”
“I love our time together... we are a sensible match... and you would make a great queen.”
Then there's Rhazien Kyrell, the Regent of the Southern Hive.
And listen... I TRIED to like him. I really did. At first, he seemed charming, attentive, thoughtful, reassuring—almost suspiciously perfect. But something about him constantly had me waiting for the other shoe to drop. And then came THAT conversation.
Sir... IS THAT YOUR CONFESSION OF LOVE??
That one exchange told me everything I needed to know. While Dommik saw Revya for who she truly was, Rhazien always seemed more in love with the idea of her—with what she could become, what she could give him, and what she represented.
“I think I'm the forest. And you're the flame.”
Honestly, this quote perfectly captures Dommik and Revya.
They're complete opposites, carrying different wounds, different fears, and different burdens. But somehow... they just FIT. Neither of them was perfect. Neither of them was easy. Yet together, they made complete sense.
The world-building was another HUGE highlight for me. The Hives, the Eldritch Sisters, the vampire lore, the politics, and the history—I ate ALL of it up. Every new revelation had me making another theory, and every answer somehow gave me ten more questions. I genuinely couldn't get enough of this world.
The plot twists genuinely had my jaw on the FLOOR. Every time I thought I knew where the story was heading, Gabby proved me wrong, and by the final chapters I was flying through the pages because I NEEDED answers.
Overall, Shadowbound was exactly the kind of fantasy romance I LOVE getting lost in. Between the vampires, the secrets, the betrayals, the yearning, and characters that felt incredibly real, I genuinely couldn't put it down.
And after THAT ending? Yeah...I need book two IMMEDIATELY.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you, Gabby Grahek, for entrusting me with your masterpiece (ARC) in return for my honest review.
Tropes to expect -
🩸Vampires
❤️🔥Forbidden attraction
🪄Hidden magic
⛓️💥Forced proximity
👑Political intrigue
💔Secrets, lies and betrayals
🌶Spice
From the first paragraph, I was hooked.
Lady Reyva has been sentenced to death for the murder of her husband that she did not commit, or she could offer herself to the Hive as a slave. In her final days, a Traveler visits her and tries to convince her to not give up and sacrifice herself like many before her.
"I'm determined to have control over my death."
"There's too much life in you to wish for death, Lady Bergmont."
"I've chosen to relinquish myself to the Hive."
Revya begins her journey to the Hive with Dommik, where she learns she is to be given to Rhazien Kyrell, the regent of the Southern Hive.
"So, after he gets whatever he wants from me, he just....gives me away. And I am someone else's property?"
Reyva, is a strong, independent and fierce FMC, with the ability to recover lost objects. Rhazien wants her to find a lost object that hasn't been seen in a very long time. Rhazien gives Reyva a lot of gifts, he is very attentive, polite, caring, adoring, charming, chivalrous, playful, adventurous, handsome and everything seems too good to be true for the first 50% of the book, and I am waiting for the proverbial shoe to drop.
"Lady Reyva is my prospect and should be treated as an extension of myself."
"I just....love seeing your lips untouched. I don't know if I am ready to mark them just yet."
"How am I supposed to focus on a kingdom with you sitting next to me looking like this?"
"I thought I was falling in love with him. But now, I'm not so sure."
Swirling underneath is the forbidden attraction for Dommik, he is scarred, wrecked, broken, monstrous but observant, caring and totally in love with Reyva.
No wonder Dommik was a lone wolf. He didn't quite fit in anywhere.
"But we are here now and I can't take it back. Knowing you is torture."
"...this insatiable craving."
"No, I realized there hasn't been any singular moment. You've been tormenting me since I met you and every moment after."
"His great matter. A matter that had also been great to me until I fell in love with his prospect."
"Because a person who craves you might build you a garden, but a person who loves you knows lilies make you sneeze and have them removed from your chambers."
"And a person who craves you might gift you a horse, but a person who loves you would know that your first horse threw you."
"It's the way you've invaded my every thought. Death would be kinder than existing in such torturous proximity to you."
"Reyva, I love you. And it's fucking terrible."
"Do not play with me, Reyva"-"I love you. And my heart is not a toy."
"Dommik, I command you to touch me."
The worldbuilding in this book is simple but created masterfully. There is spice, it is tasteful and does not overpower the story. The character development is well written, and the book had me hooked from that first paragraph!! Secrets and betrayals fly at you in the second half of the book and OMG, my tongue landed on the floor at a couple of them, they were not expected!
"A small fib would be worth a thousand moments with you, but I was telling the truth."
"A vampire can offer their shadow. If accepted, a human's soul becomes bound to them. It's a sacred bond-a promise, really-and it's what we practice here."
"I feel...empty. Like a fragile husk."
"Who do you think killed your husband, Reyva?"
"I love you, Dommik."
"You've ruined me. I am wholly yours. Today, tomorrow, infinitely."
Thank you again Gabby, I really enjoyed this book, you should be super proud, and I do look forward to reading more from you in the future, sorry this review took a while to write. Finding the right words is not easy. There are far too many quotes from this book for me to choose from, so I included them all. Congratulations 👏
Tropes to expect -
🩸Vampires
❤️🔥Forbidden attraction
🪄Hidden magic
⛓️💥Forced proximity
👑Political intrigue
💔Secrets, lies and betrayals
🌶Spice
From the first paragraph, I was hooked.
Lady Reyva has been sentenced to death for the murder of her husband that she did not commit, or she could offer herself to the Hive as a slave. In her final days, a Traveler visits her and tries to convince her to not give up and sacrifice herself like many before her.
"I'm determined to have control over my death."
"There's too much life in you to wish for death, Lady Bergmont."
"I've chosen to relinquish myself to the Hive."
Revya begins her journey to the Hive with Dommik, where she learns she is to be given to Rhazien Kyrell, the regent of the Southern Hive.
"So, after he gets whatever he wants from me, he just....gives me away. And I am someone else's property?"
Reyva, is a strong, independent and fierce FMC, with the ability to recover lost objects. Rhazien wants her to find a lost object that hasn't been seen in a very long time. Rhazien gives Reyva a lot of gifts, he is very attentive, polite, caring, adoring, charming, chivalrous, playful, adventurous, handsome and everything seems too good to be true for the first 50% of the book, and I am waiting for the proverbial shoe to drop.
"Lady Reyva is my prospect and should be treated as an extension of myself."
"I just....love seeing your lips untouched. I don't know if I am ready to mark them just yet."
"How am I supposed to focus on a kingdom with you sitting next to me looking like this?"
"I thought I was falling in love with him. But now, I'm not so sure."
Swirling underneath is the forbidden attraction for Dommik, he is scarred, wrecked, broken, monstrous but observant, caring and totally in love with Reyva.
No wonder Dommik was a lone wolf. He didn't quite fit in anywhere.
"But we are here now and I can't take it back. Knowing you is torture."
"...this insatiable craving."
"No, I realized there hasn't been any singular moment. You've been tormenting me since I met you and every moment after."
"His great matter. A matter that had also been great to me until I fell in love with his prospect."
"Because a person who craves you might build you a garden, but a person who loves you knows lilies make you sneeze and have them removed from your chambers."
"And a person who craves you might gift you a horse, but a person who loves you would know that your first horse threw you."
"It's the way you've invaded my every thought. Death would be kinder than existing in such torturous proximity to you."
"Reyva, I love you. And it's fucking terrible."
"Do not play with me, Reyva"-"I love you. And my heart is not a toy."
"Dommik, I command you to touch me."
The worldbuilding in this book is simple but created masterfully. There is spice, it is tasteful and does not overpower the story. The character development is well written, and the book had me hooked from that first paragraph!! Secrets and betrayals fly at you in the second half of the book and OMG, my tongue landed on the floor at a couple of them, they were not expected!
"A small fib would be worth a thousand moments with you, but I was telling the truth."
"A vampire can offer their shadow. If accepted, a human's soul becomes bound to them. It's a sacred bond-a promise, really-and it's what we practice here."
"I feel...empty. Like a fragile husk."
"Who do you think killed your husband, Reyva?"
"I love you, Dommik."
"You've ruined me. I am wholly yours. Today, tomorrow, infinitely."
Thank you again Gabby, I really enjoyed this book, you should be super proud, and I do look forward to reading more from you in the future, sorry this review took a while to write. Finding the right words is not easy. There are far too many quotes from this book for me to choose from, so I included them all. Congratulations 👏
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
First and foremost, a big thank you to Gabby for choosing me to read and provide an honest review of your debut book, Shadowbound! I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but your writing, world-building and characters kept me engaged and entertained until the very last page! I can't wait to see where this story goes in book two! So, well done! Congrats!
Alright y'all, let’s get into it! I just finished Shadowbound and already know this is going to be one of those books and series that I am going to recommend over and over again!
Quick Synopsis:
When Reyva is sentenced to death for the (unproven) murder of her husband, she's given a choice: face execution or be surrendered to the vampires. Expecting a life of servitude, she instead finds herself at the center of vampire politics, ancient magic, and dangerous alliances. As tensions rise between rival vampire factions, Reyva must decide who she can trust—and what she's willing to fight for. Caught between duty and love, obligation and desire, she's forced to confront not only the fate of those around her, but the future she wants for herself.
My Thoughts:
For a debut novel and the start of a new series, Gabby absolutely knocked it out of the park! From the very first chapter, I was completely invested in Reyva's story. What resonated with me most was her desire to be seen as more than what others expected of her. Again and again, she's faced with people who want something from her, who try to define her value through what she can provide or what role she should play. What broke my heart for Reyva was how often she was condemned for things she never chose: the magic she was born with and her humanity itself. Yet despite the judgment and expectations placed upon her, she continues to fight for her own voice and agency. She wants more. She wants love. She wants to matter. She wants autonomy over her choices, her future, and her own body.
I also loved the romance because it never felt simple. Reyva finds herself caught between two very different men, both carrying their own burdens, loyalties, and flaws. Rhazien seems almost too good to be true—charming, attentive, charismatic, kind, playful, powerful, and says all the right things. I spent most of the book waiting for the mask to drop, suspicious of every sweet gesture and wondering what was hiding beneath. The payoff for that tension was absolutely worth the wait. The other love interest, Dommik, won me over almost immediately and for entirely different reasons. There is a quiet vulnerability to him that made my heart ache. He understands what it means to be used by others and to long for a place where he truly belongs, which made his connection with Reyva feel especially emotional. And the YEARNING?! Ugh, it was so painful! But it hurt sooooo good!
What I appreciated most is that Reyva never loses herself in the romance. Her choices remain her own, and her journey is about more than choosing between two love interests. It's about discovering her worth and refusing to let others define it for her. (Although, some of her choices were very martyr-like. She seems to play the sacrificial lamb quite a bit.)
But I have to say, there was a pretty shocking plot twist that I did NOT see coming about 85-90% in! My jaw almost unhinged! Damn, that was good.
My one gripe would be that I wish the worldbuilding were a little more fleshed out. I have unanswered questions that I think would have been helpful to the plot in book one that I am hopeful will be answered in the book(s) to come.
All in all, the world-building was immersive, the political intrigue kept me guessing, and the character dynamics were full of tension, longing, and emotional depth. Most of all, I found myself deeply invested in these characters and their struggles, so I can't wait to see where Gabby will take them (and me!) in book two!
If you enjoy fantasy romance with vampires, political intrigue, morally complex characters, slow-burning emotional tension, and a heroine whose strength comes from knowing her own worth, Shadowbound should absolutely be on your radar.
A fantastic debut and an incredibly promising start to a new series!
2 🌶️
First and foremost, a big thank you to Gabby for choosing me to read and provide an honest review of your debut book, Shadowbound! I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but your writing, world-building and characters kept me engaged and entertained until the very last page! I can't wait to see where this story goes in book two! So, well done! Congrats!
Alright y'all, let’s get into it! I just finished Shadowbound and already know this is going to be one of those books and series that I am going to recommend over and over again!
Quick Synopsis:
When Reyva is sentenced to death for the (unproven) murder of her husband, she's given a choice: face execution or be surrendered to the vampires. Expecting a life of servitude, she instead finds herself at the center of vampire politics, ancient magic, and dangerous alliances. As tensions rise between rival vampire factions, Reyva must decide who she can trust—and what she's willing to fight for. Caught between duty and love, obligation and desire, she's forced to confront not only the fate of those around her, but the future she wants for herself.
My Thoughts:
For a debut novel and the start of a new series, Gabby absolutely knocked it out of the park! From the very first chapter, I was completely invested in Reyva's story. What resonated with me most was her desire to be seen as more than what others expected of her. Again and again, she's faced with people who want something from her, who try to define her value through what she can provide or what role she should play. What broke my heart for Reyva was how often she was condemned for things she never chose: the magic she was born with and her humanity itself. Yet despite the judgment and expectations placed upon her, she continues to fight for her own voice and agency. She wants more. She wants love. She wants to matter. She wants autonomy over her choices, her future, and her own body.
I also loved the romance because it never felt simple. Reyva finds herself caught between two very different men, both carrying their own burdens, loyalties, and flaws. Rhazien seems almost too good to be true—charming, attentive, charismatic, kind, playful, powerful, and says all the right things. I spent most of the book waiting for the mask to drop, suspicious of every sweet gesture and wondering what was hiding beneath. The payoff for that tension was absolutely worth the wait. The other love interest, Dommik, won me over almost immediately and for entirely different reasons. There is a quiet vulnerability to him that made my heart ache. He understands what it means to be used by others and to long for a place where he truly belongs, which made his connection with Reyva feel especially emotional. And the YEARNING?! Ugh, it was so painful! But it hurt sooooo good!
What I appreciated most is that Reyva never loses herself in the romance. Her choices remain her own, and her journey is about more than choosing between two love interests. It's about discovering her worth and refusing to let others define it for her. (Although, some of her choices were very martyr-like. She seems to play the sacrificial lamb quite a bit.)
But I have to say, there was a pretty shocking plot twist that I did NOT see coming about 85-90% in! My jaw almost unhinged! Damn, that was good.
My one gripe would be that I wish the worldbuilding were a little more fleshed out. I have unanswered questions that I think would have been helpful to the plot in book one that I am hopeful will be answered in the book(s) to come.
All in all, the world-building was immersive, the political intrigue kept me guessing, and the character dynamics were full of tension, longing, and emotional depth. Most of all, I found myself deeply invested in these characters and their struggles, so I can't wait to see where Gabby will take them (and me!) in book two!
If you enjoy fantasy romance with vampires, political intrigue, morally complex characters, slow-burning emotional tension, and a heroine whose strength comes from knowing her own worth, Shadowbound should absolutely be on your radar.
A fantastic debut and an incredibly promising start to a new series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shadowbound is the upcoming debut novel by indie author Gabby Grahek, and it is an impressive introduction to a promising new voice in fantasy romance.
Lady Reyva Bergmont is awaiting execution for a crime she did not commit when her fate changes unexpectedly. Commander Dommik Thorne, a mysterious and charismatic traveller, offers her an alternative. She can leave everything she has ever known behind and accompany him to the southern hive. With little choice and determined to protect her family from further suffering, Reyva accepts, setting her on a journey that will challenge everything she believes about the world and herself.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its fresh take on vampiric fantasy. Rather than relying on familiar genre conventions, Grahek creates a world that feels unique, with its own mythology, politics and social structures. The world building is rich and immersive without becoming overwhelming. Every new detail serves the story and deepens the reader's understanding of the setting instead of slowing the pace with unnecessary details. It strikes an excellent balance that keeps you engaged from beginning to end.
The characters are equally compelling. Reyva is a likeable and determined protagonist whose growth throughout the story feels natural and believable. Watching her confront long held beliefs, question the truths she has always accepted and discover her own inner strength makes for a satisfying character arc. Commander Dommik Thorne is an intriguing presence whose charm and mystery keep you invested, while the developing love triangle adds emotional tension without overshadowing the central plot. The supporting cast also has distinct personalities and motivations, making the world feel populated by characters who have lives beyond the page.
Beyond the romance and fantasy elements, Shadowbound explores themes of prejudice, manipulation and the danger of accepting a single version of the truth. It serves as a reminder that appearances can be deceptive and that the stories we are told are not always the whole story. At the same time, it highlights the strength that can come from love, trust and choosing compassion over fear. These themes give the novel emotional depth and make it more than simply a fantasy romance.
The pacing remains steady throughout, balancing moments of action, intrigue and quieter character development. There are plenty of twists that keep the story engaging, and the emotional stakes continue to build as Reyva uncovers the truth about the world around her.
The ending was one of the biggest surprises for me. It leaves several important questions unanswered while still providing a satisfying conclusion to this chapter of Reyva's journey. Rather than feeling incomplete, it creates genuine excitement for what comes next and sets up the sequel in a way that feels earned.
For a debut novel from an indie author, Shadowbound exceeded my expectations. It delivers an imaginative world, memorable characters, engaging romance and meaningful themes with confidence and heart. I was genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed this book, and it has left me eager to return to this world and discover what lies ahead for Reyva. If this is the standard Gabby Grahek has set with a first novel, I will definitely be looking forward to any future books in the series.
Lady Reyva Bergmont is awaiting execution for a crime she did not commit when her fate changes unexpectedly. Commander Dommik Thorne, a mysterious and charismatic traveller, offers her an alternative. She can leave everything she has ever known behind and accompany him to the southern hive. With little choice and determined to protect her family from further suffering, Reyva accepts, setting her on a journey that will challenge everything she believes about the world and herself.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its fresh take on vampiric fantasy. Rather than relying on familiar genre conventions, Grahek creates a world that feels unique, with its own mythology, politics and social structures. The world building is rich and immersive without becoming overwhelming. Every new detail serves the story and deepens the reader's understanding of the setting instead of slowing the pace with unnecessary details. It strikes an excellent balance that keeps you engaged from beginning to end.
The characters are equally compelling. Reyva is a likeable and determined protagonist whose growth throughout the story feels natural and believable. Watching her confront long held beliefs, question the truths she has always accepted and discover her own inner strength makes for a satisfying character arc. Commander Dommik Thorne is an intriguing presence whose charm and mystery keep you invested, while the developing love triangle adds emotional tension without overshadowing the central plot. The supporting cast also has distinct personalities and motivations, making the world feel populated by characters who have lives beyond the page.
Beyond the romance and fantasy elements, Shadowbound explores themes of prejudice, manipulation and the danger of accepting a single version of the truth. It serves as a reminder that appearances can be deceptive and that the stories we are told are not always the whole story. At the same time, it highlights the strength that can come from love, trust and choosing compassion over fear. These themes give the novel emotional depth and make it more than simply a fantasy romance.
The pacing remains steady throughout, balancing moments of action, intrigue and quieter character development. There are plenty of twists that keep the story engaging, and the emotional stakes continue to build as Reyva uncovers the truth about the world around her.
The ending was one of the biggest surprises for me. It leaves several important questions unanswered while still providing a satisfying conclusion to this chapter of Reyva's journey. Rather than feeling incomplete, it creates genuine excitement for what comes next and sets up the sequel in a way that feels earned.
For a debut novel from an indie author, Shadowbound exceeded my expectations. It delivers an imaginative world, memorable characters, engaging romance and meaningful themes with confidence and heart. I was genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed this book, and it has left me eager to return to this world and discover what lies ahead for Reyva. If this is the standard Gabby Grahek has set with a first novel, I will definitely be looking forward to any future books in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shadowbound by Gabby Grahek completely ruined my sleep schedule—in the best possible way. This was the kind of book I simply could not put down. I was intrigued from the very first page and found myself constantly turning pages late into the night, desperate to know what would happen next.
What stood out most to me was Reyva. She felt authentic in a way that many fantasy heroines don't. She's not fearless or flawless; she's carrying the weight of loss, heartbreak, and uncertainty, and those struggles make her incredibly relatable. Seeing her evolve throughout the story was one of my favorite parts of the book. Watching her grow from someone resigned to her fate into someone willing to fight for herself and the people she loves was incredibly rewarding.
The romance was another highlight. I really appreciated how different the two love interests were. Rhazien is caring, dependable, endlessly charming, and maybe a little too good to be true, while Dommik is darker, damaged, and far more complicated. Their contrasting personalities created such an interesting dynamic, and every scene involving them had me completely invested.
The romantic dynamic was one of my favorite aspects of the book. The love triangle never felt forced or unnecessary; instead, it added layers of emotion, conflict, and anticipation. I was constantly torn between the two love interests, and I loved every second of it.
The world-building was immersive without ever feeling overwhelming. I quickly found myself absorbed in a world filled with political intrigue, hidden agendas, shocking betrayals, and irresistible tension. The constant twists and revelations kept me guessing, and I never felt entirely sure who could be trusted.
Although the story is more character-focused than plot-focused, I found myself loving that aspect. The emotional development and relationships were at the heart of the book and kept me fully invested. At the same time, the plot remained unpredictable, with enough twists and surprises to keep me eagerly turning the pages. I also loved how well-balanced the romance was—the spice added to the chemistry and emotional depth without ever distracting from the story itself.
Rating: 5.0 stars
Overall, Shadowbound is a captivating blend of dark fantasy, romance, intrigue, and unexpected twists. With memorable characters, compelling relationships, and a story that kept me glued to the pages, this was an unforgettable read. I already can't wait to continue the series and see where the story goes next.
Thank you, Gabby, for the opportunity to read this book early!
What stood out most to me was Reyva. She felt authentic in a way that many fantasy heroines don't. She's not fearless or flawless; she's carrying the weight of loss, heartbreak, and uncertainty, and those struggles make her incredibly relatable. Seeing her evolve throughout the story was one of my favorite parts of the book. Watching her grow from someone resigned to her fate into someone willing to fight for herself and the people she loves was incredibly rewarding.
The romance was another highlight. I really appreciated how different the two love interests were. Rhazien is caring, dependable, endlessly charming, and maybe a little too good to be true, while Dommik is darker, damaged, and far more complicated. Their contrasting personalities created such an interesting dynamic, and every scene involving them had me completely invested.
The romantic dynamic was one of my favorite aspects of the book. The love triangle never felt forced or unnecessary; instead, it added layers of emotion, conflict, and anticipation. I was constantly torn between the two love interests, and I loved every second of it.
The world-building was immersive without ever feeling overwhelming. I quickly found myself absorbed in a world filled with political intrigue, hidden agendas, shocking betrayals, and irresistible tension. The constant twists and revelations kept me guessing, and I never felt entirely sure who could be trusted.
Although the story is more character-focused than plot-focused, I found myself loving that aspect. The emotional development and relationships were at the heart of the book and kept me fully invested. At the same time, the plot remained unpredictable, with enough twists and surprises to keep me eagerly turning the pages. I also loved how well-balanced the romance was—the spice added to the chemistry and emotional depth without ever distracting from the story itself.
Rating: 5.0 stars
Overall, Shadowbound is a captivating blend of dark fantasy, romance, intrigue, and unexpected twists. With memorable characters, compelling relationships, and a story that kept me glued to the pages, this was an unforgettable read. I already can't wait to continue the series and see where the story goes next.
Thank you, Gabby, for the opportunity to read this book early!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely an amazing read!
It completely ruined me from the very beginning!
I love this take on vampires and love the world that Gabby Grahek created here. The world building from the very first line was beautifully done. The magic system was simple but it was done in such a way that it didn't feel that way. I really enjoyed that nothing seemed to take away from the book only made it better.
All the characters, from the side characters to the main characters everything flowed very well together. You laughed with them, you cared for them, you wonder if you really did wonder into a why chose book and you cry over them.
Reyva, the FMC, was what we all want to read. She was ready for the death they were committing her to but made the choice to go to the Hive. She meets Dommik, the one who talked her into going to the hive and they form a relationship. She learned that she is meant for something but is unsure what. When they finally make it to the Southern Hive. Reyva is thrust into a world she wasn't prepared for but will do anything to protect her family.
The Regent, Rhazien, courts her from the very beginning. showering her with love, affection and gifts. He woos her and over times lets her know why she is there. She is his prospect and then will be his queen. As she figured out this new world she is in, she is also struggling with feelings for the Commander, Dommik. Everything changes after a trip to the Northern Hive and Reyva is struggling even more to come to terms with her fate. Or what she wants to do with her fate. She steps into her own when she is confronted by the need to protect her family and those she loves. She shows everyone what is to mess with a fierce human.
Between Rhazien and Dommik, it's hard to figure out who you like more. I fell for Dommik, of course, fairly early on and was kind of bias of how things went. Both MMCs were very well written and like night and day, you always feel like you are picking sides but that's what makes this book so good! you don't know what is going to happen from one moment to the next.
Of course I will not say much more, other than I was in Gabby Grahek's DM fairly quickly letting her know all of my feelings. This book was Wonderfully written and I cannot wait for the next book! (when is it coming out again?)
This is another book that should be preordered and put on your TBR!
Shadowbound is out July 6th, 26!
I cannot thank Gabby Grahek enough for allowing me the pleasure of reading her book early! Thank you for this ARC and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
It completely ruined me from the very beginning!
I love this take on vampires and love the world that Gabby Grahek created here. The world building from the very first line was beautifully done. The magic system was simple but it was done in such a way that it didn't feel that way. I really enjoyed that nothing seemed to take away from the book only made it better.
All the characters, from the side characters to the main characters everything flowed very well together. You laughed with them, you cared for them, you wonder if you really did wonder into a why chose book and you cry over them.
Reyva, the FMC, was what we all want to read. She was ready for the death they were committing her to but made the choice to go to the Hive. She meets Dommik, the one who talked her into going to the hive and they form a relationship. She learned that she is meant for something but is unsure what. When they finally make it to the Southern Hive. Reyva is thrust into a world she wasn't prepared for but will do anything to protect her family.
The Regent, Rhazien, courts her from the very beginning. showering her with love, affection and gifts. He woos her and over times lets her know why she is there. She is his prospect and then will be his queen. As she figured out this new world she is in, she is also struggling with feelings for the Commander, Dommik. Everything changes after a trip to the Northern Hive and Reyva is struggling even more to come to terms with her fate. Or what she wants to do with her fate. She steps into her own when she is confronted by the need to protect her family and those she loves. She shows everyone what is to mess with a fierce human.
Between Rhazien and Dommik, it's hard to figure out who you like more. I fell for Dommik, of course, fairly early on and was kind of bias of how things went. Both MMCs were very well written and like night and day, you always feel like you are picking sides but that's what makes this book so good! you don't know what is going to happen from one moment to the next.
Of course I will not say much more, other than I was in Gabby Grahek's DM fairly quickly letting her know all of my feelings. This book was Wonderfully written and I cannot wait for the next book! (when is it coming out again?)
This is another book that should be preordered and put on your TBR!
Shadowbound is out July 6th, 26!
I cannot thank Gabby Grahek enough for allowing me the pleasure of reading her book early! Thank you for this ARC and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoyed this book about a human learning about an unknown vampire kingdom so much! All my teen love for vampires were awakened again. I consumed every word as fast as I could. The pacing and writing style had me hooked and reading like my life depended on it. I like when an fmc has to learn about their world while the action is happening! It’s way better than reading 100 pages of agonizing world building while everyone is standing still. I was smiling and kicking my feet at all the interactions and scenes the entire book. There is spice in the first book so if that isn’t your taste I wouldn’t try it but I’m a spice lover and this delivered but yet still leaves some desired scenes in a future book. The magic was unique and added to the story. I liked how the secrets and information could be revealed through the fmcs magic. For a debut novel I just am in awe of such a lovely story.
Below I’ll write what left me wanting more of the ending, to make an extra star but still recommend reading this book. And this is more to talk about if you’ve already read this book. Since it left me feeling quite frustrated which means the story warranted emotions out of me just not pleasant.
Ending spoilers below
Spoilers
Below
Spoilers
Below
Spoilers
Below
As far the twist at the end. I was shocked by some of the betrayals of the mmc. Some I believe are unredeemable or the fmc is just mildly upset after they happen. To me rage or maybe magical destruction or making the mmc grovel should have been warranted but she continued to be sad and then explain it away and then forgive so easily. Dom lied so much since the beginning and also before even they were intimate he had to take the sisters to the castle and didn’t tell her. It is said that he was trying to be the one to protect them but the fmc doesn’t even confront him just has to believe he did it in a kind way or was forced by the king. Also Dom had no plan? He just decided to tell the king like we’re in love and thought he’d listen but accepted his fate if he died why isn’t there an idea of running away together maybe they would get caught but his lack of plan bothered me about him. I would prefer a more strategic mmc but chalked it up to his main focus was blind love that consumed him which is beautiful but lacked objectivity. So than by the end I wasn’t sure I liked the mmc as much as her. Everything is wrapped up like it’s a standalone. I wanted more groveling for his behavior. Maybe I’m too harsh but again I enjoy that a story can elicit said emotions 😅
Below I’ll write what left me wanting more of the ending, to make an extra star but still recommend reading this book. And this is more to talk about if you’ve already read this book. Since it left me feeling quite frustrated which means the story warranted emotions out of me just not pleasant.
Ending spoilers below
Spoilers
Below
Spoilers
Below
Spoilers
Below
As far the twist at the end. I was shocked by some of the betrayals of the mmc. Some I believe are unredeemable or the fmc is just mildly upset after they happen. To me rage or maybe magical destruction or making the mmc grovel should have been warranted but she continued to be sad and then explain it away and then forgive so easily. Dom lied so much since the beginning and also before even they were intimate he had to take the sisters to the castle and didn’t tell her. It is said that he was trying to be the one to protect them but the fmc doesn’t even confront him just has to believe he did it in a kind way or was forced by the king. Also Dom had no plan? He just decided to tell the king like we’re in love and thought he’d listen but accepted his fate if he died why isn’t there an idea of running away together maybe they would get caught but his lack of plan bothered me about him. I would prefer a more strategic mmc but chalked it up to his main focus was blind love that consumed him which is beautiful but lacked objectivity. So than by the end I wasn’t sure I liked the mmc as much as her. Everything is wrapped up like it’s a standalone. I wanted more groveling for his behavior. Maybe I’m too harsh but again I enjoy that a story can elicit said emotions 😅
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced reader copy sent by the Author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars
What to expect:
Forbidden attraction • Hidden magic • Vampires • Forced proximity • Political intrigue • Consent kink • Banter • Bodyguard MMC • FMC in her 30's • Spice •
This book was amazing. If you're after a book with vampires, magic, immersive worldbuilding and fantastic MC's then look no further. Shadowbound had me hooked from page one. The plot twists in this book completely took me by surprise.
We follow our FMC Revya Bergmont, she is awaiting execution for her crime but because she is a high-born, she can decide how she dies either by axe or exile to a vampire community called The Hive.
With her family in danger, she sacrifices herself and chooses exile. She then, begins her journey to The Hive with her escort one of our MMC's Dommik.
I really enjoyed Revya, in the beginning she just wants it all to end, she has given up hope. But throughout this book she has soo much growth and we learn that she's funny, cunning, stubborn and defiant.
One of our MMC Dommik, now this man was my fav character. He is a super hunky vampire. But he is also still recovering from a loss of a loved one, so he's closed off and broken and it takes a bit before we get to truly see him. He's smart, hilarious, loyal and extremely protective of Revya.
"No man, no obstacle, could stop me from finding you. Ever. You hear me?"
Our other MMC Rhazien, I got icky vibes off him straight away. He is immediately attentive and affectionate towards Revyan. And I was continually questioning his motives.
The plot is addictive, I needed to know what was going to happen. Great pacing throughout.
Dark, immersive worldbuilding, I loved the whole vibe I got from this book. I could picture everything.
The banter 10/10, I was constantly giggling. 🤭
The romance in this book was fantastic, Revya is being pulled between feelings for both Dommik and Rhazien it was never simple, it was constantly growing and changing.
The tension was palpable. And the spice was great. One scene took me by surprise, something I thought would be so gross, but it was totally hot!! 🔥👏🏽
The political intrigue was interesting and kept me guessing. Not all courts want to change the way they live.
The plot twists and betrayals, some of them I saw coming others.. I am unwell. Completely shook.
Highly recommend. Can't wait to see what happens next.
Thank you, Gabby for sending me an arc of your book 🩷
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars
What to expect:
Forbidden attraction • Hidden magic • Vampires • Forced proximity • Political intrigue • Consent kink • Banter • Bodyguard MMC • FMC in her 30's • Spice •
This book was amazing. If you're after a book with vampires, magic, immersive worldbuilding and fantastic MC's then look no further. Shadowbound had me hooked from page one. The plot twists in this book completely took me by surprise.
We follow our FMC Revya Bergmont, she is awaiting execution for her crime but because she is a high-born, she can decide how she dies either by axe or exile to a vampire community called The Hive.
With her family in danger, she sacrifices herself and chooses exile. She then, begins her journey to The Hive with her escort one of our MMC's Dommik.
I really enjoyed Revya, in the beginning she just wants it all to end, she has given up hope. But throughout this book she has soo much growth and we learn that she's funny, cunning, stubborn and defiant.
One of our MMC Dommik, now this man was my fav character. He is a super hunky vampire. But he is also still recovering from a loss of a loved one, so he's closed off and broken and it takes a bit before we get to truly see him. He's smart, hilarious, loyal and extremely protective of Revya.
"No man, no obstacle, could stop me from finding you. Ever. You hear me?"
Our other MMC Rhazien, I got icky vibes off him straight away. He is immediately attentive and affectionate towards Revyan. And I was continually questioning his motives.
The plot is addictive, I needed to know what was going to happen. Great pacing throughout.
Dark, immersive worldbuilding, I loved the whole vibe I got from this book. I could picture everything.
The banter 10/10, I was constantly giggling. 🤭
The romance in this book was fantastic, Revya is being pulled between feelings for both Dommik and Rhazien it was never simple, it was constantly growing and changing.
The tension was palpable. And the spice was great. One scene took me by surprise, something I thought would be so gross, but it was totally hot!! 🔥👏🏽
The political intrigue was interesting and kept me guessing. Not all courts want to change the way they live.
The plot twists and betrayals, some of them I saw coming others.. I am unwell. Completely shook.
Highly recommend. Can't wait to see what happens next.
Thank you, Gabby for sending me an arc of your book 🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2026
“Hello, lovely.”
A story of murder. Witches. Vampires. A sentence of execution or allowing yourself to be exiled to a vampiric coven. Love triangles. Possessive MMC. FMC in her 30s.
“Hello, deviant.”
Have you ever been hooked on a book from the first line? “I’d seen dozens of beheadings in my thirty-three years, but never considered practicing for my own.”
I absolutely fell in love with the world Gabby created. The idea of humans knowing about and existing with Vampire Kingdoms (Hives), sending humans to them. Where they can end up as fodder or slaves. Getting to experience the differences between the Northern and Southern Hives, and the contrast between their Regents.
“Without atrocities we cannot illuminate and appreciate the beauty in life”
Reyva is what I want in a FMC. She is self dependent, takes flack. She isn’t exactly a damsel, but when it comes to vampires she does need protection. Enter Dommik, the Commander of the Southern Hive. From the very beginning I fell in love with the banter between Reyva and Dommik. The playful jabs and flirty exchanges (mostly from Dommik).
“Say a prayer for me, Lady Bergmont.”
The (forbidden) attraction and yearning between Reyva and Dommik teases at what could be. There is just enough to nibble, a strong undercurrent to their interactions. And a distraction for Reyva while being courted by Rhazien. The pull Reyva felt between Dommik and Rhazien was top tier for me. You have a man (Rhazien) who would literally do anything to give you everything you could ever want, spoil you with gifts, jewels and clothes galore. Whereas with Dommik you have a man who will stop at nothing to protect you, comfort you and cherish you.
“You make my name sound like a prayer.”
I love the magic we got to see from Reyva, and others (I refuse to spoil it). I just wish we got to see more of it. We experience Reyva’s gift throughout the book, and the magics we glimpse at the end I want to experience more of. I want to know more about Rayva’s familial line and about what other secrets it may contain.
“Reyva, I love you. And it’s fucking terrible.”
I loved Shadowbound. I was unable to set it down for long. It was a very quick 400+ page read, and once the action gets started toward the end of the book, you will not want to put it down either. It ends on a cliff hanger, which means I will be biding my time awaiting book 2.
“You’ve ruined me. I am wholly yours. Today, tomorrow, infinitely.”
A story of murder. Witches. Vampires. A sentence of execution or allowing yourself to be exiled to a vampiric coven. Love triangles. Possessive MMC. FMC in her 30s.
“Hello, deviant.”
Have you ever been hooked on a book from the first line? “I’d seen dozens of beheadings in my thirty-three years, but never considered practicing for my own.”
I absolutely fell in love with the world Gabby created. The idea of humans knowing about and existing with Vampire Kingdoms (Hives), sending humans to them. Where they can end up as fodder or slaves. Getting to experience the differences between the Northern and Southern Hives, and the contrast between their Regents.
“Without atrocities we cannot illuminate and appreciate the beauty in life”
Reyva is what I want in a FMC. She is self dependent, takes flack. She isn’t exactly a damsel, but when it comes to vampires she does need protection. Enter Dommik, the Commander of the Southern Hive. From the very beginning I fell in love with the banter between Reyva and Dommik. The playful jabs and flirty exchanges (mostly from Dommik).
“Say a prayer for me, Lady Bergmont.”
The (forbidden) attraction and yearning between Reyva and Dommik teases at what could be. There is just enough to nibble, a strong undercurrent to their interactions. And a distraction for Reyva while being courted by Rhazien. The pull Reyva felt between Dommik and Rhazien was top tier for me. You have a man (Rhazien) who would literally do anything to give you everything you could ever want, spoil you with gifts, jewels and clothes galore. Whereas with Dommik you have a man who will stop at nothing to protect you, comfort you and cherish you.
“You make my name sound like a prayer.”
I love the magic we got to see from Reyva, and others (I refuse to spoil it). I just wish we got to see more of it. We experience Reyva’s gift throughout the book, and the magics we glimpse at the end I want to experience more of. I want to know more about Rayva’s familial line and about what other secrets it may contain.
“Reyva, I love you. And it’s fucking terrible.”
I loved Shadowbound. I was unable to set it down for long. It was a very quick 400+ page read, and once the action gets started toward the end of the book, you will not want to put it down either. It ends on a cliff hanger, which means I will be biding my time awaiting book 2.
“You’ve ruined me. I am wholly yours. Today, tomorrow, infinitely.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all I would like to thank Gabby Grahek for gifting me this ARC.
As an ARC reader I loved to find new authors and their hidden gems and this is one such story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5 Stars
Shadowbound by Gabby Grahek is a beautifully written fantasy filled with political intrigue, forbidden romance, and plenty of twists that kept me turning the pages.
Reyva is faced with an impossible choice: die by beheading for a crime she didn’t commit or be exiled to the Hive—a mysterious vampire court feared for its brutality. Ready to accept death, she instead sacrifices herself to protect the people she loves, setting her on a path that changes everything.
Once she’s taken to the Hive by Dommik, Reyva discovers that the terrifying rumours only tell part of the story. Thrust into a glittering yet dangerous world, she learns she is destined to become the future queen by joining with King Rhazien as the Shadowbound. But as court politics intensify and secrets come to light, Reyva finds herself caught between duty, destiny, and an undeniable attraction she knows she shouldn’t pursue.
“Dommik was like a stain on my mind. An itch I couldn’t scratch. Off-limits. Out of bounds. Forbidden.”
The chemistry between Reyva and Dommik is impossible to ignore, and their forbidden relationship delivers some wonderfully emotional moments.
“It’s the way you’ve invaded my every thought. Death would be kinder than existing in such tortuous proximity to you.”
“I don’t just love you—you consume me.”
One of my favourite aspects of the novel was Reyva’s character development. Watching her grow from someone who has constantly been controlled and used by both society and the powerful men around her into someone determined to choose her own path was incredibly satisfying. She’s resilient, compassionate, and easy to root for.
Of course, every great fantasy needs a memorable villain, and Eryx certainly delivers. He embodies the darkest side of vampirism and adds an extra layer of tension and danger to the story. Love him or hate him, he makes it possible for this story to evolve.
With its rich world-building, engaging political intrigue, compelling characters, and slow-burning forbidden romance, Shadowbound is a fantastic start to what promises to be an exciting trilogy. I can’t wait to see where Reyva’s journey takes her next.
As an ARC reader I loved to find new authors and their hidden gems and this is one such story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5 Stars
Shadowbound by Gabby Grahek is a beautifully written fantasy filled with political intrigue, forbidden romance, and plenty of twists that kept me turning the pages.
Reyva is faced with an impossible choice: die by beheading for a crime she didn’t commit or be exiled to the Hive—a mysterious vampire court feared for its brutality. Ready to accept death, she instead sacrifices herself to protect the people she loves, setting her on a path that changes everything.
Once she’s taken to the Hive by Dommik, Reyva discovers that the terrifying rumours only tell part of the story. Thrust into a glittering yet dangerous world, she learns she is destined to become the future queen by joining with King Rhazien as the Shadowbound. But as court politics intensify and secrets come to light, Reyva finds herself caught between duty, destiny, and an undeniable attraction she knows she shouldn’t pursue.
“Dommik was like a stain on my mind. An itch I couldn’t scratch. Off-limits. Out of bounds. Forbidden.”
The chemistry between Reyva and Dommik is impossible to ignore, and their forbidden relationship delivers some wonderfully emotional moments.
“It’s the way you’ve invaded my every thought. Death would be kinder than existing in such tortuous proximity to you.”
“I don’t just love you—you consume me.”
One of my favourite aspects of the novel was Reyva’s character development. Watching her grow from someone who has constantly been controlled and used by both society and the powerful men around her into someone determined to choose her own path was incredibly satisfying. She’s resilient, compassionate, and easy to root for.
Of course, every great fantasy needs a memorable villain, and Eryx certainly delivers. He embodies the darkest side of vampirism and adds an extra layer of tension and danger to the story. Love him or hate him, he makes it possible for this story to evolve.
With its rich world-building, engaging political intrigue, compelling characters, and slow-burning forbidden romance, Shadowbound is a fantastic start to what promises to be an exciting trilogy. I can’t wait to see where Reyva’s journey takes her next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book hooked me from the very beginning. We are first introduced to the FMC as she awaits her execution for the false accusation and conviction of murder. But in this world, she has a choice, or the illusion of a choice. And so enters the vampires and the real fun begins. There is action, adventure, declarations of love and hate, court intrigues, family drama, a love triangle. And a couple of twists that I did not see coming and had me gasping. All in all, an excellent debut novel by this author!
I particularly liked how this FMC was written. She is strong and cunning as she navigates a world in which women are considered more like property or "less than"--and even more so as she is drawn deep into the vampire world. I love a story where the main character goes against the odds, defies the norms, and follows their heart no matter what and still gets that happy ending. Who doesn't? But in this story, the reader is not lead on this type of path. The FMC struggles with her decisions and what they mean for not just her but her family, the world, and what might be best overall for everyone. She knows what she wants, but also realizes she has to work within the confines of the current social and power structures or no changes can be made to make the world a better place for anyone else. Things are bigger than just herself and her own feelings. This is a reality in which we can all relate. And I think her process through this book in finding her path and doing what she thought was right was very well written.
As a reader, I did struggle with how quickly two very powerful and high ranking vampires fell for the FMC. The development of the love triangle could have been flushed out a bit more. But, it did not distract from my enjoyment of the story. I was also very pleasantly surprised by the development of some of the supporting characters in later events in the book. I don't want to give anything away but some family secrets are revealed and now I am very interested in how that all plays out as this series continues.
Thank you to Gabby Grahek for sending me this ARC. I relished my escape into her world and do look forward to seeing what comes next in this series.
I particularly liked how this FMC was written. She is strong and cunning as she navigates a world in which women are considered more like property or "less than"--and even more so as she is drawn deep into the vampire world. I love a story where the main character goes against the odds, defies the norms, and follows their heart no matter what and still gets that happy ending. Who doesn't? But in this story, the reader is not lead on this type of path. The FMC struggles with her decisions and what they mean for not just her but her family, the world, and what might be best overall for everyone. She knows what she wants, but also realizes she has to work within the confines of the current social and power structures or no changes can be made to make the world a better place for anyone else. Things are bigger than just herself and her own feelings. This is a reality in which we can all relate. And I think her process through this book in finding her path and doing what she thought was right was very well written.
As a reader, I did struggle with how quickly two very powerful and high ranking vampires fell for the FMC. The development of the love triangle could have been flushed out a bit more. But, it did not distract from my enjoyment of the story. I was also very pleasantly surprised by the development of some of the supporting characters in later events in the book. I don't want to give anything away but some family secrets are revealed and now I am very interested in how that all plays out as this series continues.
Thank you to Gabby Grahek for sending me this ARC. I relished my escape into her world and do look forward to seeing what comes next in this series.
July 10, 2026
4.5 stars ✨
One of my favorite things about this book was its characters. They’re wonderfully flawed, each in their own way, and that made them feel incredibly real. I found myself invested in every decision they made, even when I didn’t necessarily agree with them.
I also loved the way vampires are portrayed. They have that classic vampire feel, but the author adds an original twist through the structure of the different Hives (vampiric courts) and their shared history, which I found fascinating. Another detail I really enjoyed was the use of vampire blood as a drug by humans, with different effects depending on both who consumes it and which vampire it comes from. It was such an unsettling and alluring concept that added another layer to the worldbuilding.
The love triangle was surprisingly well done and intriguing. I had a very clear preference from the very beginning, but I really enjoyed all the dynamics, as well as the hidden meanings, feelings and motives behind everything.
What stood out to me the most, however, was the exploration of “want” versus “duty”. The protagonist is a woman in her thirties with a daughter, something that’s still relatively uncommon in fantasy, and I loved seeing an adult heroine whose struggles weren’t about coming of age but about reclaiming her life.
After years trapped in a political marriage where she was expected to be the perfect trophy wife and produce heirs, her arrival at the vampire court feels almost like a second chance. Yet, despite her newfound freedom… among vampires, crazy, I know… she once again finds herself imprisoned by other people’s expectations, just in a different form. I thought that was both heartbreaking and incredibly powerful.
The magic system is still largely unexplored, but everything I’ve seen so far has me completely intrigued. It feels like there’s so much more beneath the surface, and I’m really looking forward to learning more in the next books.
The only reason this isn’t a full five stars is that there are still a few things that didn’t quite add up for me. I have a feeling they’ll be addressed later in the series, but they also personally felt like questions the protagonist herself should have already asked, especially before agreeing to do what was asked of her without fully understanding what it would actually mean.
⚠️ LITTLE CONTENT-WARNING SPOILER AHEAD ⚠️
——
There’s also one sexually charged vampire-feeding scene that involves menstrual blood, which may not be for everyone. It’s very much consensual, but I can see why it might make some readers uncomfortable. Then again, some of you are probably going to go feral over it, so consider this your heads-up anyway.
——
⚠️ END OF SPOILER ⚠️
Overall, this was a fantastic start to the series, with compelling characters, an original take on vampires, and a story that left me genuinely excited to see where it goes next.
Thank you to the author for gifting me the eARC of her book!
One of my favorite things about this book was its characters. They’re wonderfully flawed, each in their own way, and that made them feel incredibly real. I found myself invested in every decision they made, even when I didn’t necessarily agree with them.
I also loved the way vampires are portrayed. They have that classic vampire feel, but the author adds an original twist through the structure of the different Hives (vampiric courts) and their shared history, which I found fascinating. Another detail I really enjoyed was the use of vampire blood as a drug by humans, with different effects depending on both who consumes it and which vampire it comes from. It was such an unsettling and alluring concept that added another layer to the worldbuilding.
The love triangle was surprisingly well done and intriguing. I had a very clear preference from the very beginning, but I really enjoyed all the dynamics, as well as the hidden meanings, feelings and motives behind everything.
What stood out to me the most, however, was the exploration of “want” versus “duty”. The protagonist is a woman in her thirties with a daughter, something that’s still relatively uncommon in fantasy, and I loved seeing an adult heroine whose struggles weren’t about coming of age but about reclaiming her life.
After years trapped in a political marriage where she was expected to be the perfect trophy wife and produce heirs, her arrival at the vampire court feels almost like a second chance. Yet, despite her newfound freedom… among vampires, crazy, I know… she once again finds herself imprisoned by other people’s expectations, just in a different form. I thought that was both heartbreaking and incredibly powerful.
The magic system is still largely unexplored, but everything I’ve seen so far has me completely intrigued. It feels like there’s so much more beneath the surface, and I’m really looking forward to learning more in the next books.
The only reason this isn’t a full five stars is that there are still a few things that didn’t quite add up for me. I have a feeling they’ll be addressed later in the series, but they also personally felt like questions the protagonist herself should have already asked, especially before agreeing to do what was asked of her without fully understanding what it would actually mean.
⚠️ LITTLE CONTENT-WARNING SPOILER AHEAD ⚠️
——
There’s also one sexually charged vampire-feeding scene that involves menstrual blood, which may not be for everyone. It’s very much consensual, but I can see why it might make some readers uncomfortable. Then again, some of you are probably going to go feral over it, so consider this your heads-up anyway.
——
⚠️ END OF SPOILER ⚠️
Overall, this was a fantastic start to the series, with compelling characters, an original take on vampires, and a story that left me genuinely excited to see where it goes next.
Thank you to the author for gifting me the eARC of her book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Exciting, thrilling, Spicy 🌶️
I was lucky enough to be selected as an ARC reader for this thrilling book, which releases 6th July 2026.
The story follows Reyva a human who has to decide between execution or giving herself over to the Hive—the Vampires who live outside the human settlement.
She is expecting monsters, brutality but is instead ‘courted’ by the vampire regent Rhazien. All the whilst thinking of the handsome Dommik who delivered her into his regent’s arms.
Reyva is not naive, she is a woman in her 30s who knows what it is like to be used by men. Dommik even describes her as ‘cunning’, she knows how to play and more importantly survive the room.
I was stunned, shocked, devastated by scenes. My head was spinning trying to solve it but the book just continued to evolve and take me a long with it.
I loved Reyva, the inner battle she had between the men in her lives. The strength she had for her family, for her people.
The supporting characters added interest and intrigue. I loved Alba the chambermaid who gave Reyva the friendship she so desperately needed.
Dommik is duty bound to his regent and tries to fight the feelings he has for Reyva. Rhazien courts Reyva beautifully, providing her with whatever she wishes but with a condition to be Shadowbound to him. This whole storyline has you constantly evaluating as Reyva, who and what should she choose. Constantly realising no choice is easy.
Duty bound, Shadowbound, we’re all bound by something.
One of the main themes was this power of choice and realising your worth.
100% recommend
100% loved it when he called her ‘lovely’
100% want to read or have read to me ‘The Forest and The Flame’
100% throwing bread and drinking wine
Pretty spicy 🌶️
Some of my favourite quotes
“You’ve ruined me. I am wholly yours. Today, tomorrow, infinitely.”
“Oh, just taking them for a walk,”
“You saved me again...” “You have a habit of needing to be saved.”
“The regent isn’t keen on other vampires touching his things”
“I wondered if he’d been a brick wall in a former life.”
“My shield. My sword. My forest and flame. My absolute ruin. My Dommik.”
If you love vampires, forbidden attraction, hidden magic and forced proximity (my fave). You are going to adore this book!
I was lucky enough to be selected as an ARC reader for this thrilling book, which releases 6th July 2026.
The story follows Reyva a human who has to decide between execution or giving herself over to the Hive—the Vampires who live outside the human settlement.
She is expecting monsters, brutality but is instead ‘courted’ by the vampire regent Rhazien. All the whilst thinking of the handsome Dommik who delivered her into his regent’s arms.
Reyva is not naive, she is a woman in her 30s who knows what it is like to be used by men. Dommik even describes her as ‘cunning’, she knows how to play and more importantly survive the room.
I was stunned, shocked, devastated by scenes. My head was spinning trying to solve it but the book just continued to evolve and take me a long with it.
I loved Reyva, the inner battle she had between the men in her lives. The strength she had for her family, for her people.
The supporting characters added interest and intrigue. I loved Alba the chambermaid who gave Reyva the friendship she so desperately needed.
Dommik is duty bound to his regent and tries to fight the feelings he has for Reyva. Rhazien courts Reyva beautifully, providing her with whatever she wishes but with a condition to be Shadowbound to him. This whole storyline has you constantly evaluating as Reyva, who and what should she choose. Constantly realising no choice is easy.
Duty bound, Shadowbound, we’re all bound by something.
One of the main themes was this power of choice and realising your worth.
100% recommend
100% loved it when he called her ‘lovely’
100% want to read or have read to me ‘The Forest and The Flame’
100% throwing bread and drinking wine
Pretty spicy 🌶️
Some of my favourite quotes
“You’ve ruined me. I am wholly yours. Today, tomorrow, infinitely.”
“Oh, just taking them for a walk,”
“You saved me again...” “You have a habit of needing to be saved.”
“The regent isn’t keen on other vampires touching his things”
“I wondered if he’d been a brick wall in a former life.”
“My shield. My sword. My forest and flame. My absolute ruin. My Dommik.”
If you love vampires, forbidden attraction, hidden magic and forced proximity (my fave). You are going to adore this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🥀 Dark romantasy bound in a unique vampiric world – I couldn’t put this one down!
I loved this dark romantasy by debut author Gabby Grahek. I was immediately hooked from the very first sentence and drawn into this dark, gritty vampiric world. Her writing style held an eerie, suspenseful element that more would be revealed with each page I turned.
It begins with our FMC, Reyva, awaiting her execution by axe for the murder of her husband. This feels reminiscent of historical witch trials and the lack of freedom women had back then, only seen as property with breeding potential to carry on family lines. Reyva has one alternative option – to be sent to the Hive, a vampire colony to the North, as tribute.
Enter Dommik Thorne, one of our MMCs, who is disguised as a Traveler, those who can move between the human and vampire communities. He personally seeks out Reyva for her magical powers – a unique ability to locate lost items. He eventually coerces her, by threatening her family, to choose the Hive over execution.
Without giving too much away, together they make the journey to the Hive where Reyva finds out she has been selected to be the vampire regent’s - our other MMC - prospect and in due time, shadowbound as the future Queen of the Southern Hive. There is a love triangle though it was easy to know which MMC I was rooting for – the broody war commander: tall and broad in frame, with dark, obsidian hair and stormy blue eyes. Absolutely swoon-worthy 😏
I loved all the vampire lore – it was flavoured with its own bloody uniqueness, puns intended.
The author throws in a devastatingly shocking plot twist in the latter part of the book which I didn’t see coming! It had me staring at the wall – like, did that just really happen?! It blew my mind! I’m hoping this alone will convince you to pick up this book.
The final chapter plus the epilogue will leave you wanting to know what happens next and highly anticipating the next book in this series. I CANNOT WAIT!
Thank you so much to the author for sharing an ARC with me. All thoughts are my own.
I loved this dark romantasy by debut author Gabby Grahek. I was immediately hooked from the very first sentence and drawn into this dark, gritty vampiric world. Her writing style held an eerie, suspenseful element that more would be revealed with each page I turned.
It begins with our FMC, Reyva, awaiting her execution by axe for the murder of her husband. This feels reminiscent of historical witch trials and the lack of freedom women had back then, only seen as property with breeding potential to carry on family lines. Reyva has one alternative option – to be sent to the Hive, a vampire colony to the North, as tribute.
Enter Dommik Thorne, one of our MMCs, who is disguised as a Traveler, those who can move between the human and vampire communities. He personally seeks out Reyva for her magical powers – a unique ability to locate lost items. He eventually coerces her, by threatening her family, to choose the Hive over execution.
Without giving too much away, together they make the journey to the Hive where Reyva finds out she has been selected to be the vampire regent’s - our other MMC - prospect and in due time, shadowbound as the future Queen of the Southern Hive. There is a love triangle though it was easy to know which MMC I was rooting for – the broody war commander: tall and broad in frame, with dark, obsidian hair and stormy blue eyes. Absolutely swoon-worthy 😏
I loved all the vampire lore – it was flavoured with its own bloody uniqueness, puns intended.
The author throws in a devastatingly shocking plot twist in the latter part of the book which I didn’t see coming! It had me staring at the wall – like, did that just really happen?! It blew my mind! I’m hoping this alone will convince you to pick up this book.
The final chapter plus the epilogue will leave you wanting to know what happens next and highly anticipating the next book in this series. I CANNOT WAIT!
Thank you so much to the author for sharing an ARC with me. All thoughts are my own.
June 28, 2026
ARC Review
Shadowbound is a powerhouse that grabs you by the throat from the opening scene and never lets go. I was itching to reach the end, desperate to see where Reyva’s journey would lead and the payoff was absolutely worth it.
We meet Reyva as she awaits execution for a crime she didn’t commit. She’s a woman who has already made peace with her fate, resigned to injustice. But then a stranger offers her a devastating bargain to sacrifice herself to save her loved ones and enter the vampire community known as The Hive and everything changes. There, she learns she is to become the vampire regent’s betrothed, and the story erupts into danger, political tension, and awakening magic.
One of the biggest appeals for me was how the characters are portrayed, especially Reyva. She is not your typical FMC. She’s flawed, human, hurting, insecure at times… Her development is beautiful. The strength she gathers toward the end, the way she fights for a better future not just for herself and loved ones but for every mortal living under vampire rule… it’s powerful and deeply moving.
And then there’s the tension between Reyva and the two men who capture her heart. On one side, the steady force who saved her from the axe, even though he’s terrified of opening up. On the other, her betrothed, who does everything right: he woos her with patience, kindness, and devotion, making her dreams come true in ways she never expected. The push and pull between the three of them, layered with political intrigue and shifting loyalties, is one of the book’s biggest highlights.
The spice and romance are delicious: never overpowering the plot, but woven in at exactly the right moments to heighten the tension without diminishing the complexity of the world or the stakes.
This story delivers passion, mystery, magic, found family, rekindled bonds, heartbreak, and impossible choices. It’s fast‑paced, full of twists (especially in the last 50 pages, I was not okay), and the ending left me absolutely reeling. I will be recovering for a while, and I sincerely hope we don’t have to wait long for the next book!
(Thank you Gabby Grahek for the eARC!)
Shadowbound is a powerhouse that grabs you by the throat from the opening scene and never lets go. I was itching to reach the end, desperate to see where Reyva’s journey would lead and the payoff was absolutely worth it.
We meet Reyva as she awaits execution for a crime she didn’t commit. She’s a woman who has already made peace with her fate, resigned to injustice. But then a stranger offers her a devastating bargain to sacrifice herself to save her loved ones and enter the vampire community known as The Hive and everything changes. There, she learns she is to become the vampire regent’s betrothed, and the story erupts into danger, political tension, and awakening magic.
One of the biggest appeals for me was how the characters are portrayed, especially Reyva. She is not your typical FMC. She’s flawed, human, hurting, insecure at times… Her development is beautiful. The strength she gathers toward the end, the way she fights for a better future not just for herself and loved ones but for every mortal living under vampire rule… it’s powerful and deeply moving.
And then there’s the tension between Reyva and the two men who capture her heart. On one side, the steady force who saved her from the axe, even though he’s terrified of opening up. On the other, her betrothed, who does everything right: he woos her with patience, kindness, and devotion, making her dreams come true in ways she never expected. The push and pull between the three of them, layered with political intrigue and shifting loyalties, is one of the book’s biggest highlights.
The spice and romance are delicious: never overpowering the plot, but woven in at exactly the right moments to heighten the tension without diminishing the complexity of the world or the stakes.
This story delivers passion, mystery, magic, found family, rekindled bonds, heartbreak, and impossible choices. It’s fast‑paced, full of twists (especially in the last 50 pages, I was not okay), and the ending left me absolutely reeling. I will be recovering for a while, and I sincerely hope we don’t have to wait long for the next book!
(Thank you Gabby Grahek for the eARC!)
July 2, 2026
A dark vampire romantasy to add to your TBRs. Out July 6th!
This story pulls you right in from the start. We are dropped into this story where the FMC Reyva is wrongly facing execution for the murder of her husband. She is given the choice of a public beheading or to live and become a slave to the vampire kingdom. While spending time “praying” in her cell before going ahead with her choice of execution, she meets a tall dark and handsome man who tries to sway her decision and for her to join the vampire hive instead of death.
“Say a prayer for me, Lady Bergmont”
This book had a delicious love triangle that had me hoping and “praying” for a why choose for the majority of the book. The men in the book know how to YEARN. Like crawling on their hands and knees yearning. Literally.
Reyva was relatable in her feelings towards what was happening to her and I enjoyed her character a lot. The character arc was amazing where she starts out as accepting that her fate is to die, to now fighting for her family and the people she loves while making her own choices of what she wants for her future.
There are some amazzzzzing spicy scenes in this that if you love dark romance and some shock value to your books you will enjoy.
“Just a drop” 🩸
“Do you need instructions..?”
“Instructions? No. I know exactly what to do with you. I just wanted to hear you say it.” 🔥
Like come on?! there are 200 year old powerful vampires begging on their knees for her and it was HOT
The world building was immersive, and the political system of the vampire hives was intriguing. The characters had depth and there was the perfect amount of yearning. There is betrayal, there is heartbreak, there is swoon worthy romance with a fantastic push and pull love triangle.
Gabby does a great job of pulling you into the story and for a debut novel she absolutely slayed. Thank you so much to Gabby for the opportunity to be an advance reader and this awesome book!
This story pulls you right in from the start. We are dropped into this story where the FMC Reyva is wrongly facing execution for the murder of her husband. She is given the choice of a public beheading or to live and become a slave to the vampire kingdom. While spending time “praying” in her cell before going ahead with her choice of execution, she meets a tall dark and handsome man who tries to sway her decision and for her to join the vampire hive instead of death.
“Say a prayer for me, Lady Bergmont”
This book had a delicious love triangle that had me hoping and “praying” for a why choose for the majority of the book. The men in the book know how to YEARN. Like crawling on their hands and knees yearning. Literally.
Reyva was relatable in her feelings towards what was happening to her and I enjoyed her character a lot. The character arc was amazing where she starts out as accepting that her fate is to die, to now fighting for her family and the people she loves while making her own choices of what she wants for her future.
There are some amazzzzzing spicy scenes in this that if you love dark romance and some shock value to your books you will enjoy.
“Just a drop” 🩸
“Do you need instructions..?”
“Instructions? No. I know exactly what to do with you. I just wanted to hear you say it.” 🔥
Like come on?! there are 200 year old powerful vampires begging on their knees for her and it was HOT
The world building was immersive, and the political system of the vampire hives was intriguing. The characters had depth and there was the perfect amount of yearning. There is betrayal, there is heartbreak, there is swoon worthy romance with a fantastic push and pull love triangle.
Gabby does a great job of pulling you into the story and for a debut novel she absolutely slayed. Thank you so much to Gabby for the opportunity to be an advance reader and this awesome book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Listen, I am not a huge vampire read girlie, but this was absolutely fantastic. This is Gabby's debut novel and she absolutely kicked ass! Thank you Gabby for giving me the privilege to read your book before release! I am truly grateful.
I was hooked from the very beginning. Reyva, our FMC, has been imprisoned for the death of her husband and has to choose between meeting death at the axe or going to The Hive to become what rumors have it, a slave to the vampiric realm. She is absolutely fierce and strong! With everything that she had to endure, she still chooses to do what she thinks is the right thing to do to keep her family safe.
Rhazien, one of our MMCs, he lavishs Reyva with gifts and sweet words. He seems charming, polite, and all the things a woman would expect from a suitor. I was immediately encaptured by his charm but sometimes things are just way too good to be true.
I loved the world building and the political intrigue going on. Learning the history of the vampires was one of my favorite stories within the book, among other things. 😏
there is a lot of lies and betrayal within the book and nothing is quite as it seems. There were many instances that I thought I had it figured out but was completely thrown off and was kept at the edge of my seat.
You really get to know the characters involved and I kinda wished we got more of Dom's POV during some of these events but even without them, this read was absolutely incredible. Alba was one of my favorite side characters. We all need at least one good friend to stand by our side in an unknown realm.
I was surprised to find myself liking Cora as well even with her snarky attitude towards Reyva.
Dommik, our sweet and deviant MMC, he is protective and always seems to know what it is that Reyva needs in her most crucial moments. The yearning and the bit of banter between the two 🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽 As much as it hurt to see what they had to go through, they are absolutely fantastic together.
I'm not gonna lie, the last 15% of the book had me by the balls. 😂 I cannot wait to get into book 2!
I was hooked from the very beginning. Reyva, our FMC, has been imprisoned for the death of her husband and has to choose between meeting death at the axe or going to The Hive to become what rumors have it, a slave to the vampiric realm. She is absolutely fierce and strong! With everything that she had to endure, she still chooses to do what she thinks is the right thing to do to keep her family safe.
Rhazien, one of our MMCs, he lavishs Reyva with gifts and sweet words. He seems charming, polite, and all the things a woman would expect from a suitor. I was immediately encaptured by his charm but sometimes things are just way too good to be true.
I loved the world building and the political intrigue going on. Learning the history of the vampires was one of my favorite stories within the book, among other things. 😏
there is a lot of lies and betrayal within the book and nothing is quite as it seems. There were many instances that I thought I had it figured out but was completely thrown off and was kept at the edge of my seat.
You really get to know the characters involved and I kinda wished we got more of Dom's POV during some of these events but even without them, this read was absolutely incredible. Alba was one of my favorite side characters. We all need at least one good friend to stand by our side in an unknown realm.
I was surprised to find myself liking Cora as well even with her snarky attitude towards Reyva.
Dommik, our sweet and deviant MMC, he is protective and always seems to know what it is that Reyva needs in her most crucial moments. The yearning and the bit of banter between the two 🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽 As much as it hurt to see what they had to go through, they are absolutely fantastic together.
I'm not gonna lie, the last 15% of the book had me by the balls. 😂 I cannot wait to get into book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for allowing me an arc copy.
“It’s the way you’ve invaded my every thought. Death would be kinder than existing in such torturous proximity to you.”
The first thing that gripped me was the period-setting of the story. With royalty, courts, balls, courting and the expectations of a lady. I'm a sucker for it and combine that with vampires well it's a match made in heaven. I appreciated that the author maintained the actions and language befitting the setting throughout, it kept me fully immersed! 🌏
Reyva is perfection, she plays the part of a demure lady but knows how to use her strengths to get what she desires. Commander Thorne was also absolutely brilliant, it's refreshing to come across an MMC with so much depth of character - that goes for the regent aswell, I had no idea who to root for in the love triangle. The interactions between the FMC and both MMCs were emotional, endearing and VERY spicy 🌶🥵 The side characters particularly Oddo, Alba and Gorvin were incredible and I want to hear more from them!
The difference between the two hives gave us a view of both the glittering appeal of life as a vampire and the dark and sordid aspect. The stark contrast was shocking. I had felt the pace of the story had slowed just slightly during the courting period when things were all rosey between Reyva and the regent as part of the suspense to lure me into a false sense of security 😂 The injection of danger when we visited the Northen Hive really kicked things off.
I won't risk spoilers but the twists, turns and trauma in this book just absolutely blew my mind. The whole premise of this story was magical, the romance was to die for. I spent most of my time screaming at my Kindle. The author took me on a ride that I never wanted to end and i'm confident this book is going to be the next big thing in dark vampire romantasy! ❤️✨️
"He was earth. He was death. He felt like home."
“It’s the way you’ve invaded my every thought. Death would be kinder than existing in such torturous proximity to you.”
The first thing that gripped me was the period-setting of the story. With royalty, courts, balls, courting and the expectations of a lady. I'm a sucker for it and combine that with vampires well it's a match made in heaven. I appreciated that the author maintained the actions and language befitting the setting throughout, it kept me fully immersed! 🌏
Reyva is perfection, she plays the part of a demure lady but knows how to use her strengths to get what she desires. Commander Thorne was also absolutely brilliant, it's refreshing to come across an MMC with so much depth of character - that goes for the regent aswell, I had no idea who to root for in the love triangle. The interactions between the FMC and both MMCs were emotional, endearing and VERY spicy 🌶🥵 The side characters particularly Oddo, Alba and Gorvin were incredible and I want to hear more from them!
The difference between the two hives gave us a view of both the glittering appeal of life as a vampire and the dark and sordid aspect. The stark contrast was shocking. I had felt the pace of the story had slowed just slightly during the courting period when things were all rosey between Reyva and the regent as part of the suspense to lure me into a false sense of security 😂 The injection of danger when we visited the Northen Hive really kicked things off.
I won't risk spoilers but the twists, turns and trauma in this book just absolutely blew my mind. The whole premise of this story was magical, the romance was to die for. I spent most of my time screaming at my Kindle. The author took me on a ride that I never wanted to end and i'm confident this book is going to be the next big thing in dark vampire romantasy! ❤️✨️
"He was earth. He was death. He felt like home."
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧
This book took me for one heck of a ride! Our journey starts off with Reyva, a human who was accused of causing the death of her husband. She was given the choice to be either sentenced to death or sacrificed to the vampires. At the hive, she’s thrust into a world of politics, magic, surrounded by vampires friend and foe. All the while being caught between her desire, potential love and duty. Between juggling all these she’s forced to make a decision which could benefit the better the world or her happiness.
The storyline caught my attention and I was interested in what choices reyva would make at each turn of events. The romance in this story was complicated. She’s caught between 2 love interests. Rhazien, who showers her with love and affection, charming and handsome. While Dommik, bound by his duties to guard her, silent yet attentive but of course also handsome. For me personally, I’m team Dommik right from the get go. His scenes with reyva were my favorite in the book. There’s something about a mysterious man who wants her, yearns for her but knows it’s so FORBIDDEN that gets me rooting for him. Yes the forbidden love in this had me wanting more.
There is a love triangle trope in this and personally it is not a trope I tend to read or enjoy, those who aren’t a fan of this trope either, heads up! but the premise of the story was interesting.
I like how reyva isn’t the type to easily believe just on what she sees and she tries to make choices on her own wants.
The last 20% definitely shooked me because I did not see that coming!!
My qualm about this was I had questions in how the mmcs fell for reyva esp Rhazien and I wished it was further elaborated on. I felt like there were a lot of sides to the vampires that were not mentioned too.
All in all, this was a fun read. Thank you Gabby Grahek for an arc copy!
𝟯.𝟱-𝟯.𝟳𝟱 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀
This book took me for one heck of a ride! Our journey starts off with Reyva, a human who was accused of causing the death of her husband. She was given the choice to be either sentenced to death or sacrificed to the vampires. At the hive, she’s thrust into a world of politics, magic, surrounded by vampires friend and foe. All the while being caught between her desire, potential love and duty. Between juggling all these she’s forced to make a decision which could benefit the better the world or her happiness.
The storyline caught my attention and I was interested in what choices reyva would make at each turn of events. The romance in this story was complicated. She’s caught between 2 love interests. Rhazien, who showers her with love and affection, charming and handsome. While Dommik, bound by his duties to guard her, silent yet attentive but of course also handsome. For me personally, I’m team Dommik right from the get go. His scenes with reyva were my favorite in the book. There’s something about a mysterious man who wants her, yearns for her but knows it’s so FORBIDDEN that gets me rooting for him. Yes the forbidden love in this had me wanting more.
There is a love triangle trope in this and personally it is not a trope I tend to read or enjoy, those who aren’t a fan of this trope either, heads up! but the premise of the story was interesting.
I like how reyva isn’t the type to easily believe just on what she sees and she tries to make choices on her own wants.
The last 20% definitely shooked me because I did not see that coming!!
My qualm about this was I had questions in how the mmcs fell for reyva esp Rhazien and I wished it was further elaborated on. I felt like there were a lot of sides to the vampires that were not mentioned too.
All in all, this was a fun read. Thank you Gabby Grahek for an arc copy!
𝟯.𝟱-𝟯.𝟳𝟱 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀
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