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Tethered
She was never meant to be found.
She was never meant to fall in love…
But fate had other plans for her.
Hidden away in the shadows of Silvaria, Fawn has spent her life in a cottage deep in the forest with her mother, tending to her garden and keeping to herself. But when her mother returns injured one night, Fawn must step into the city and experience the world beyond her home for the first time.
When the stoic Captain of the Guard crosses her path, Fawn’s life changes forever. How can she ever go back to the quiet life she once knew?
Prophecy, love, and betrayal entwine, pulling her into a future she never imagined. With everything on the line, Fawn and her newfound chosen family discover that belonging and love might be worth rewriting the stars themselves.
In a world where prophecies decide all, can their love defy fate?
Tethered is a romantic fantasy for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout, and Disney’s Tangled.
Themes and tropes
Found family, forbidden romance, fated mates, slow burn romance, coming-of-age, prophecy, adventure, magical bond, mutual pining, banter and tension, protective captain of the guard, powerful female friendships, heartbreak and betrayal, hidden truths and family secrets, healing from trauma.
She was never meant to fall in love…
But fate had other plans for her.
Hidden away in the shadows of Silvaria, Fawn has spent her life in a cottage deep in the forest with her mother, tending to her garden and keeping to herself. But when her mother returns injured one night, Fawn must step into the city and experience the world beyond her home for the first time.
When the stoic Captain of the Guard crosses her path, Fawn’s life changes forever. How can she ever go back to the quiet life she once knew?
Prophecy, love, and betrayal entwine, pulling her into a future she never imagined. With everything on the line, Fawn and her newfound chosen family discover that belonging and love might be worth rewriting the stars themselves.
In a world where prophecies decide all, can their love defy fate?
Tethered is a romantic fantasy for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout, and Disney’s Tangled.
Themes and tropes
Found family, forbidden romance, fated mates, slow burn romance, coming-of-age, prophecy, adventure, magical bond, mutual pining, banter and tension, protective captain of the guard, powerful female friendships, heartbreak and betrayal, hidden truths and family secrets, healing from trauma.
- GenresFantasyFantasy Romance
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2026
About the author
Jordan Mazzei
1 book10 followersJordan Mazzei is the author of Tethered, a romantic fantasy novel about love, belonging, courage, betrayal, and heartbreak. She is a graduate of Duquesne University with a degree in education and has a passion for reading and writing. Jordan currently lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. When she’s not outdoors or playing with her four ferrets, Jordan loves connecting with readers online everywhere as @JordanMazzeiAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
March 27, 2026
I had the privilege of reading an ARC of this book. The story is filled with adventure, love, friendship, betrayal, and fates. A real roller coaster of emotions along the way with a wholly unexpected finale that flips the storyline upside down and adds some high stakes! Can’t wait for book 2!
April 18, 2026
This was an ARC read
This book has great found family & a nice change of pace with friends to lovers instead of enemies to lovers, which we see so often in the romantasy genre. The characters are very likable & you can easily connect with them. It has a few twists that you don’t see coming & the ending was completely unexpected. I highly recommend reading this book! I can’t wait for book 2!
4⭐️
1🌶️
2🧠
This book has great found family & a nice change of pace with friends to lovers instead of enemies to lovers, which we see so often in the romantasy genre. The characters are very likable & you can easily connect with them. It has a few twists that you don’t see coming & the ending was completely unexpected. I highly recommend reading this book! I can’t wait for book 2!
4⭐️
1🌶️
2🧠
May 20, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book. The plot was addictive and the world immersive. I was not expecting that ending!
May 29, 2026
Thank you to Jordan Mazzei for sending me an early copy of this book! I was absolutely honored to be an arc reader!
This book is so good and took me on a wild ride. I love the overall fairytale vibes, it has a cozy, comfortable feel but there's an undercurrent of warning and danger that's lurking at every turn. It creates a tension that slowly builds until it explodes into an entirely new portion of the story in part two. I was completely drawn in by the relationships and the characters. It was a pretty quick read overall, with some simple world building that was enough to picture the setting. Ultimately this is much more character focused than anything which I thoroughly enjoyed.
There are so many wonderful green flag characters. Fawn is a sweet, sheltered girl with a heart of gold and an adorably awkward habit of rambling. River is automatically stealing everyone's heart. He is protective, thoughtful and generally just wants everyone he loves to be safe and happy. Enter all of his wonderful friends that immediately adopt Fawn and want to help her grow and learn. The found family is so beautiful, with her going from being so alone to building a confidence she could only dream of. Each friend helps her find different parts of herself, and they are all so amazing in their own way. I could go on about how much I love them all for days. There are secrets and twists, many I was not expecting, and I need answers right this second.
The plot starts off pretty low stakes, just a girl trying to find her place in the world and making friends. Part two hit me like a stack of bricks. Betrayal, prophecies, secrets, and the ultimate villian. I was grateful for the insight into River's character with some glimpses of his POV, it was nice to see some events from his perspective. I really enjoyed this story and it is a wonderful set up for what I think is going to be an intense series. Can I please have book 2 now?! Also don't believe for one second I didn't catch that joke about author's leaving cliffhangers. Well played.
This book is so good and took me on a wild ride. I love the overall fairytale vibes, it has a cozy, comfortable feel but there's an undercurrent of warning and danger that's lurking at every turn. It creates a tension that slowly builds until it explodes into an entirely new portion of the story in part two. I was completely drawn in by the relationships and the characters. It was a pretty quick read overall, with some simple world building that was enough to picture the setting. Ultimately this is much more character focused than anything which I thoroughly enjoyed.
There are so many wonderful green flag characters. Fawn is a sweet, sheltered girl with a heart of gold and an adorably awkward habit of rambling. River is automatically stealing everyone's heart. He is protective, thoughtful and generally just wants everyone he loves to be safe and happy. Enter all of his wonderful friends that immediately adopt Fawn and want to help her grow and learn. The found family is so beautiful, with her going from being so alone to building a confidence she could only dream of. Each friend helps her find different parts of herself, and they are all so amazing in their own way. I could go on about how much I love them all for days. There are secrets and twists, many I was not expecting, and I need answers right this second.
The plot starts off pretty low stakes, just a girl trying to find her place in the world and making friends. Part two hit me like a stack of bricks. Betrayal, prophecies, secrets, and the ultimate villian. I was grateful for the insight into River's character with some glimpses of his POV, it was nice to see some events from his perspective. I really enjoyed this story and it is a wonderful set up for what I think is going to be an intense series. Can I please have book 2 now?! Also don't believe for one second I didn't catch that joke about author's leaving cliffhangers. Well played.
May 13, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. There was subtle foreshadowing through out the entire book that leads to the plot twist near the end of the book.
Our FMC is extremely sheltered (mom kept her hidden in the forest) so she has no interactions other than the forest animals and finally goes into the city. She stumbles over her words and interactions in a humbly child way, but fully expected with her upbringing. Out MMC comes into play shortly after her first trip to the city and slowly throws singles at her that’s she’s oblivious to. His friends quickly become her friends forming a found family unit.
The book ends in a betrayal to the FMC so I’m excited to see how she goes about the news in book two!!
Our FMC is extremely sheltered (mom kept her hidden in the forest) so she has no interactions other than the forest animals and finally goes into the city. She stumbles over her words and interactions in a humbly child way, but fully expected with her upbringing. Out MMC comes into play shortly after her first trip to the city and slowly throws singles at her that’s she’s oblivious to. His friends quickly become her friends forming a found family unit.
The book ends in a betrayal to the FMC so I’m excited to see how she goes about the news in book two!!
May 14, 2026
4.5 stars! What a book! This book was SO good. I was completely intrigued from the start, never quite knowing where the story was headed, and then it takes a turn where everything begins to unravel in the best way. I loved the mysterious vibe throughout, and the MMC had me hooked. I was constantly trying to piece together how it would all play out. And don’t even get me started on that ending.. I need book two immediately!
May 19, 2026
I absolutely loved this book! Fawn and River are so perfect! Granted, Fawn was so sheltered she was kind of awkward at first but who wouldnt be? The world world building is great and i feel like it was paced just right. The twists and turns and emotions in between make it so good! I really don't knwo what i expected by the end to be honest but it did take me by surprise a little bit.
This was a great start to the series and I cant wait to see what happens in book 2!
This was a great start to the series and I cant wait to see what happens in book 2!
May 19, 2026
I binged this book in alarmingly few hours. It was so well written and engaging and now my only regret is that I don't get to experience it for the first time again. The characters are so lovable. It was so cute and cozy while also bringing some more mature themes into it. The plot twist at the end really had my jaw on the floor.
Book Two can't come fast enough!!!
Book Two can't come fast enough!!!
June 4, 2026
Jordan went to my highschool so I knew I wanted to read this book because it’s super cool she’s an author. I’m usually a thriller girl but i loved this book, it might be the one to get me into fantasies. And i definitely need part 2 asap!
May 25, 2026
I found the pacing quite difficult to get through. The majority of the book takes place over a relatively short timeframe, but very little actually happens beyond the development of Fawn’s relationships with the MMC and her 'found family'. I can see why people draw comparisons to ACOTAR in terms of dynamics, with the shared living situation and character group, but it ultimately felt like the story was more focused on small snippets of day-to-day life than forward plot momentum.
Because of that, I did struggle with repetition. A lot of time is spent on routine interactions and domestic scenes, which started to feel quite repetitive and made it hard to stay fully engaged. While there is a sweet found-family element that builds over time, I would have liked more deviation from the mundane to balance it out.
I also found the romance a bit too instant for my taste. The relationship develops very quickly into an “all in” dynamic, which made it harder for me to feel grounded in the connection between the main characters. Combined with the tone of the FMC, who is meant to be 25 but often reads as much much younger in terms of emotional maturity, it occasionally felt a little uncomfortable and hard to reconcile.
There were also structural elements that didn’t quite land, particularly around the FMC’s backstory and isolation. For example, the idea that she has supposedly never met another person in 25 years felt difficult to reconcile, especially given the direct explanation of the scope of the world. Her relationship with her mother also raises a lot of unresolved questions; particularly around control, her reaction to Fawn's deception, and whether there was ever a clear path toward resolution/escape or if she was just going to keep reacting the same way she did (it's a hard one to navigate without giving spoilers). These threads felt introduced but not fully developed or resolved in a satisfying way.
The ending also didn’t fully work for me. The final 8–10% introduces a lot of rapid developments and tonal shifts that felt quite chaotic and difficult reconcile. The potential outcomes presented within those final pages move very quickly and don’t really make a lot of sense to me as the only way things were going to play out.
That said, there were elements I did enjoy, and I can see the foundation of an interesting concept here. The found-family dynamic has real potential so long as it's original, and the core idea behind the story is strong. Ultimately though, too much of it didn’t quite land for me personally, and I don’t think I’ll be continuing the series.
Because of that, I did struggle with repetition. A lot of time is spent on routine interactions and domestic scenes, which started to feel quite repetitive and made it hard to stay fully engaged. While there is a sweet found-family element that builds over time, I would have liked more deviation from the mundane to balance it out.
I also found the romance a bit too instant for my taste. The relationship develops very quickly into an “all in” dynamic, which made it harder for me to feel grounded in the connection between the main characters. Combined with the tone of the FMC, who is meant to be 25 but often reads as much much younger in terms of emotional maturity, it occasionally felt a little uncomfortable and hard to reconcile.
There were also structural elements that didn’t quite land, particularly around the FMC’s backstory and isolation. For example, the idea that she has supposedly never met another person in 25 years felt difficult to reconcile, especially given the direct explanation of the scope of the world. Her relationship with her mother also raises a lot of unresolved questions; particularly around control, her reaction to Fawn's deception, and whether there was ever a clear path toward resolution/escape or if she was just going to keep reacting the same way she did (it's a hard one to navigate without giving spoilers). These threads felt introduced but not fully developed or resolved in a satisfying way.
The ending also didn’t fully work for me. The final 8–10% introduces a lot of rapid developments and tonal shifts that felt quite chaotic and difficult reconcile. The potential outcomes presented within those final pages move very quickly and don’t really make a lot of sense to me as the only way things were going to play out.
That said, there were elements I did enjoy, and I can see the foundation of an interesting concept here. The found-family dynamic has real potential so long as it's original, and the core idea behind the story is strong. Ultimately though, too much of it didn’t quite land for me personally, and I don’t think I’ll be continuing the series.
June 3, 2026
Review: 5 ⭐
Review just for Jordan: 5 ⭐, I need therapy now and it's your fault, thank you. 😂
A quote that perfectly sums up this book: "For the first time all day, I feel whole" (while I was reading this). ❤
As Mazzei's debut work, this was absolutely delightful to read and it hooked me into the storyline within the first few chapters, especially as we got to learn about the kingdom of Silvaria with Fawn and witness her discovering a life of friendship, happiness, romance, and defense classes that she hasn't been privy to prior. There were so many great characters that we got to meet in this first book with varying qualities about them, such as the quiet yet kind Baron, the stealthy but hilarious January, and so many others that became the perfect found family.
The first half of the book read like a classic romantasy with the vibes of Tangled mixed with Divergent where the guard trains the new arrival and she is learning all about the life she has missed out on for 20+ years. As soon as you reach the second half of the book it felt like I was dropped into Wonderland as everything began to change, secrets emerged, plot twists occurred and by that last page my jaw was on the floor and tears were streaming down my face. This book was funny at times, light-hearted, had some nice "slice-of-life" moments, but it was also anxiety-inducing, heart wrenching, and infuriating at others.
I'm emotionally wrecked but I loved every moment and this book will live forever with me. I can't wait for the sequel! Thank you so much to Jordan Mazzei for letting me read this book prior to release!
Review just for Jordan: 5 ⭐, I need therapy now and it's your fault, thank you. 😂
A quote that perfectly sums up this book: "For the first time all day, I feel whole" (while I was reading this). ❤
As Mazzei's debut work, this was absolutely delightful to read and it hooked me into the storyline within the first few chapters, especially as we got to learn about the kingdom of Silvaria with Fawn and witness her discovering a life of friendship, happiness, romance, and defense classes that she hasn't been privy to prior. There were so many great characters that we got to meet in this first book with varying qualities about them, such as the quiet yet kind Baron, the stealthy but hilarious January, and so many others that became the perfect found family.
The first half of the book read like a classic romantasy with the vibes of Tangled mixed with Divergent where the guard trains the new arrival and she is learning all about the life she has missed out on for 20+ years. As soon as you reach the second half of the book it felt like I was dropped into Wonderland as everything began to change, secrets emerged, plot twists occurred and by that last page my jaw was on the floor and tears were streaming down my face. This book was funny at times, light-hearted, had some nice "slice-of-life" moments, but it was also anxiety-inducing, heart wrenching, and infuriating at others.
I'm emotionally wrecked but I loved every moment and this book will live forever with me. I can't wait for the sequel! Thank you so much to Jordan Mazzei for letting me read this book prior to release!
June 6, 2026
I absolutely ADORED this book ❤️❤️❤️ it reads like a cozy fantasy with a dark twist. There is a found family element that is really well done, and I LOVE the chemistry between all the characters! The main character was really unique and refreshing. She is imaginative, motivated, a little anxious, but brave, naive but open to change, talks a lot, a little quirky, and I just really loved her. Throughout the story, I was rooting for her the whole time! She was written so honestly, and I love the arc she is journeying ❤️ This is Jordan Mazzei’s debut novel, and wow! She nailed it! I cannot wait for book two! There were a few parts that felt slow, and much of the book almost felt like diary entries as the 1st person POV relays her day to day experiences, but if you lean “cozy fantasy,” you won’t mind at all. If you lean “dark” - just hang onto your bookmark because I was floored! I also just HAVE to mention that the cover for this book is literally one of my favorites on my shelf! I hope I’m writing the names right, but the acknowledgments identified the artist(s) as Reece-Alexander Norris-Paterson. They created a beautiful woodsy painting that wraps around the front and back, and WOW - the foggy forest background with the shaft of light coming through the trees backlighting the doe and fawn 😍 and the flowers, the cottage, the thread, I LITERALLY can’t stop looking at it. There’s something about how the cover FEELS too. The hard cover has a soft, somewhat velvety feel. I HIGHLY recommend not only reading this amazing story but also purchasing the book for the breathtaking cover!
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 stars, rounded up for Goodreads rating.
Thank you for the ARC, I enjoyed reading it.
Pros: I loved the story and the characters! I DNF books really easily, but this one held my interest, and in fact I devoured it in 2 days. I felt like their relationship was well done, for the most part. I thought the foreshadowing was really well done, as I guessed at least the outline of the "twist" at about 3/4 of the way through.
Cons: Fawn felt closer in age to 17 than her actual 25 years, but that does make sense given that she was raised in isolation with just her mother. The world building had some glaring inconsistencies... It's set in a world with horses and castles and barracks (training with swords and bows and arrows and the like) and taverns and stalls in market squares and corsets and lanterns rather than electricity, but then they have fully functioning bathrooms, brush their teeth, "turn down the fire" under the metal pot where she's cooking stew, and use words like boss, cliffhanger, self-help, and smut. For a little while, knowing that there was a huge twist at the end, I wondered if this was done on purpose, and that they actually existed in our modern world, kind of like the movie The Village 😂 I guess I was expecting more of a shocking twist than it actually was.... So I was kind of disappointed that the actual twist wasn't more dramatic... Rather than kind of predictable.
Overall, though, it was very engaging, and I can't wait to read the next one!
Thank you for the ARC, I enjoyed reading it.
Pros: I loved the story and the characters! I DNF books really easily, but this one held my interest, and in fact I devoured it in 2 days. I felt like their relationship was well done, for the most part. I thought the foreshadowing was really well done, as I guessed at least the outline of the "twist" at about 3/4 of the way through.
Cons: Fawn felt closer in age to 17 than her actual 25 years, but that does make sense given that she was raised in isolation with just her mother. The world building had some glaring inconsistencies... It's set in a world with horses and castles and barracks (training with swords and bows and arrows and the like) and taverns and stalls in market squares and corsets and lanterns rather than electricity, but then they have fully functioning bathrooms, brush their teeth, "turn down the fire" under the metal pot where she's cooking stew, and use words like boss, cliffhanger, self-help, and smut. For a little while, knowing that there was a huge twist at the end, I wondered if this was done on purpose, and that they actually existed in our modern world, kind of like the movie The Village 😂 I guess I was expecting more of a shocking twist than it actually was.... So I was kind of disappointed that the actual twist wasn't more dramatic... Rather than kind of predictable.
Overall, though, it was very engaging, and I can't wait to read the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the honour to read Tethered by Jordan Mazzei as an ARC reader, and I absolutely devoured this book. It was such a light, easy read that I completely got lost in, and I finished it much faster than I expected because I just didn’t want to put it down.
The story follows Fawn, who has lived a quiet, hidden life in the forest until circumstances force her into the city and into a completely different world. The fantasy elements, prophecy, and unfolding twists kept the story really engaging, especially toward the end — the twists were a chef’s kiss.
One of my favourite parts of the book was the romance between Fawn and River. Their relationship was sweet, playful, and genuinely enjoyable to read. The nickname River gives Fawn — Sunflower — was adorable and really fit their dynamic. They felt like two genuine sweethearts, and their interactions added a lot of warmth and humour to the story.
The side characters were also really enjoyable and helped make the world feel fuller and more alive. Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable, lighthearted fantasy romance that was easy to get immersed in.
I’m so glad I got to be an ARC reader for this book, and I’m already looking forward to the second book in the Threads of Eryndor series.
The story follows Fawn, who has lived a quiet, hidden life in the forest until circumstances force her into the city and into a completely different world. The fantasy elements, prophecy, and unfolding twists kept the story really engaging, especially toward the end — the twists were a chef’s kiss.
One of my favourite parts of the book was the romance between Fawn and River. Their relationship was sweet, playful, and genuinely enjoyable to read. The nickname River gives Fawn — Sunflower — was adorable and really fit their dynamic. They felt like two genuine sweethearts, and their interactions added a lot of warmth and humour to the story.
The side characters were also really enjoyable and helped make the world feel fuller and more alive. Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable, lighthearted fantasy romance that was easy to get immersed in.
I’m so glad I got to be an ARC reader for this book, and I’m already looking forward to the second book in the Threads of Eryndor series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the chance to read Tethered by Jordan Mazzei, and I absolutely loved it. This story pulled me in right away and kept me hooked the entire time.
One of my favorite things about this book is how beautifully it’s written while still being easy to follow. Sometimes fantasy can feel overwhelming with too many details or complicated world building, but this felt just right, immersive without ever being confusing.
Fawn’s journey was such a highlight for me. Watching her grow, step into her strength, and navigate everything thrown her way was both emotional and inspiring. Her character development felt natural and meaningful, and I found myself really rooting for her the entire time.
The story itself is engaging, heartfelt, and full of moments that kept me turning the pages. It has that perfect balance of emotion, tension, and connection that makes you not want to put it down.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable read, and I’m already looking forward to what comes next in the series. Definitely one I’d recommend if you enjoy character driven stories with heart and depth.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
One of my favorite things about this book is how beautifully it’s written while still being easy to follow. Sometimes fantasy can feel overwhelming with too many details or complicated world building, but this felt just right, immersive without ever being confusing.
Fawn’s journey was such a highlight for me. Watching her grow, step into her strength, and navigate everything thrown her way was both emotional and inspiring. Her character development felt natural and meaningful, and I found myself really rooting for her the entire time.
The story itself is engaging, heartfelt, and full of moments that kept me turning the pages. It has that perfect balance of emotion, tension, and connection that makes you not want to put it down.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable read, and I’m already looking forward to what comes next in the series. Definitely one I’d recommend if you enjoy character driven stories with heart and depth.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had such a soft, emotional fantasy vibe that completely pulled me in.
Fawn was really easy to root for as an FMC. She starts off so sheltered and unsure of herself, and watching her slowly step outside the life she’s always known felt really emotional and satisfying. There’s a gentleness to her character, but also this growing strength underneath it that made her journey feel very real.
I liked the atmosphere of the book. The forest setting, the prophecy elements, the hidden magic—it all gave the story this cosy but slightly bittersweet feeling that I really connected with. It felt immersive without being overwhelming.
The romance was another highlight for me because it leans into emotional tension and quieter moments rather than rushing things. The chemistry builds naturally, and the relationship felt grounded in trust, comfort, and longing in a way I really enjoyed.
One of my favourite things was the found family aspect. The relationships in this book feel warm and genuine, and it gave the whole story this emotional core that made me get attached to the characters very quickly.
Fawn was really easy to root for as an FMC. She starts off so sheltered and unsure of herself, and watching her slowly step outside the life she’s always known felt really emotional and satisfying. There’s a gentleness to her character, but also this growing strength underneath it that made her journey feel very real.
I liked the atmosphere of the book. The forest setting, the prophecy elements, the hidden magic—it all gave the story this cosy but slightly bittersweet feeling that I really connected with. It felt immersive without being overwhelming.
The romance was another highlight for me because it leans into emotional tension and quieter moments rather than rushing things. The chemistry builds naturally, and the relationship felt grounded in trust, comfort, and longing in a way I really enjoyed.
One of my favourite things was the found family aspect. The relationships in this book feel warm and genuine, and it gave the whole story this emotional core that made me get attached to the characters very quickly.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Have you ever read a book that you loved and cherished so much that it was hard to put into words? One that makes you stare at the ceiling, thinking of what’s coming next while failing to fall sleep? That’s “Tethered” to me. ✨ I binge read this book in roughly two days, picking it up every second that I had free time! “Tethered” made me feel. It made me feel giddy, crushed, surprised, happy, and immersed in Fawn and River’s adventurous story. 🌻 Their story is one packed with love, healing, solace, betrayal, and awestruck moments. “Tethered” is a romantic fantasy with themes/tropes of found family, touch her and d!e, mistaken identity, destiny/prophecy, magical bonding, and slow-burn. 💗💓 I’ve yet to read a book as amazing and special as “Tethered.” READ IT! But I need to warn you, this book is so intense and provides such an incredible euphoric feeling that you may fall into a reading slump after reading it… because it is one of a kind and hard to beat. 🌶️🌶️ /5 spice rating
Thank you Jordan Mazzei, for providing me with the ARC experience and above 5 star read! Reading experiences like this are more special than I can express. “Tethered” will be impossible to forget ♥️
Thank you Jordan Mazzei, for providing me with the ARC experience and above 5 star read! Reading experiences like this are more special than I can express. “Tethered” will be impossible to forget ♥️
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story had me hooked from the beginning and needing to know more. As it progressed further into the story I was excited to see what twists and turns would happen because you could tell it was going to happen, I just wasn’t sure what was going to happen, and honestly I had an idea but it wasn’t what I thought.
This story is very well written and keeps you intrigued on wanting to know what’s going to happen and I need the next book with how this one ended 🥲
Fawn is a sheltered girl, having never been to the city or talked to anyone else her entire life until something happens that causes her to need too. And the way she grows and expands and learns new things is so captivating and amazing to read about. This story is different from other fantasy books I have read and is another 5 star read to add for the year. It’s an amazing book and you should definitely give it a try 🫶🏻
There is found family, prophecies, adventure, fates, love & betrayal. You’ll want to get immersed into this fantasy world just like I did.
This story is very well written and keeps you intrigued on wanting to know what’s going to happen and I need the next book with how this one ended 🥲
Fawn is a sheltered girl, having never been to the city or talked to anyone else her entire life until something happens that causes her to need too. And the way she grows and expands and learns new things is so captivating and amazing to read about. This story is different from other fantasy books I have read and is another 5 star read to add for the year. It’s an amazing book and you should definitely give it a try 🫶🏻
There is found family, prophecies, adventure, fates, love & betrayal. You’ll want to get immersed into this fantasy world just like I did.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m very grateful for the opportunity to receive this arc! I really wanted to love this one more, but I struggled a lot with the pacing. Aside from a brief mid-book betrayal and the final 20 pages, nothing really happens in the book. You’re mostly along for the ride as Fawn lives her day to day life. The repetition of her daily routine (reading about her helping customers at work, reading about her reading..) got extremely repetitive, and I had a hard time staying interested. She does develop a sweet Found Family along the way, I just wish we deviated a little more from the mundanes of every day life.
I’d classify this as NA Romantasy. Fawn is meant to be 25 but developmentally is written to be more 17. Very brief low spice is the only thing that moves it from young adult to new adult for me. I’m unsure if I’ll be continuing with this series. The ending did leave me with some questions, but the pacing really put me in a slump.
I’d classify this as NA Romantasy. Fawn is meant to be 25 but developmentally is written to be more 17. Very brief low spice is the only thing that moves it from young adult to new adult for me. I’m unsure if I’ll be continuing with this series. The ending did leave me with some questions, but the pacing really put me in a slump.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Right from page 1, I was TETHERED to this book! I could not put it down, much to the detriment of my other responsibilities. I felt like this book was a breath of fresh air. Tethered definitely hits you with cozy vibes as our MFC experiences the world around her for the first time and builds her very own found family.
I really enjoyed how innocent Fawn is and that her friends are so patient and understanding with her. Each supporting character is well-developed and adds a layer of interest to the story.
This story is definitely a slow burn in the sweetest way. His patience and treatment of Fawn will have you fawning for him.
As an avid reader, I often guess many plotlines and twists before they unfold. Tethered lulled me into a false sense of security with its warm, cozy vibes...I never saw the twist coming. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next installment to have some of my questions answered!
I really enjoyed how innocent Fawn is and that her friends are so patient and understanding with her. Each supporting character is well-developed and adds a layer of interest to the story.
This story is definitely a slow burn in the sweetest way. His patience and treatment of Fawn will have you fawning for him.
As an avid reader, I often guess many plotlines and twists before they unfold. Tethered lulled me into a false sense of security with its warm, cozy vibes...I never saw the twist coming. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next installment to have some of my questions answered!
May 21, 2026
This was a good, binge-able read for me. I read it in one sitting.
It was a bit of a change of pace for me - a bit slower in terms of things happening but I didn’t mind, it made for a pleasant change.
I thought the characters were really likeable and found family is one of my favourite tropes. I liked that this was friends to lovers and liked the dynamics and chemistry between the two MCs. I did find Fern came across as feeling much younger than she was meant to be, which was a bit frustrating at times, but then I guess that would fit with her being isolated for the majority of her life.
There were a few twists that I wasn’t expecting - but the ending…😱 I will definitely be reading book 2. I need to know what happens!
Huge thanks to Jordan Mazzei for the privilege of reading an advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given honesty/voluntarily.
It was a bit of a change of pace for me - a bit slower in terms of things happening but I didn’t mind, it made for a pleasant change.
I thought the characters were really likeable and found family is one of my favourite tropes. I liked that this was friends to lovers and liked the dynamics and chemistry between the two MCs. I did find Fern came across as feeling much younger than she was meant to be, which was a bit frustrating at times, but then I guess that would fit with her being isolated for the majority of her life.
There were a few twists that I wasn’t expecting - but the ending…😱 I will definitely be reading book 2. I need to know what happens!
Huge thanks to Jordan Mazzei for the privilege of reading an advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given honesty/voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This novel surprised me in the best possible way and quickly became one of my favorite reads of the year. The characters are wonderfully crafted—vivid, layered, and easy to fall in love with. Following their journeys felt immersive and emotionally rewarding, and each storyline pulled me in a little deeper.
The plot is equally compelling. It moves with a steady, enticing rhythm that kept me turning pages long after I planned to stop. And that cliffhanger at the end—absolutely thrilling. It left me eager for the next installment and already counting down to book two.
Highly recommend for anyone who loves character‑driven stories with momentum, heart, and a finale that leaves you wanting more.
The plot is equally compelling. It moves with a steady, enticing rhythm that kept me turning pages long after I planned to stop. And that cliffhanger at the end—absolutely thrilling. It left me eager for the next installment and already counting down to book two.
Highly recommend for anyone who loves character‑driven stories with momentum, heart, and a finale that leaves you wanting more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got rapunzel feeling from this book hidden away in a forest no human contact unit her mother hurt her leg
Fml and ml instantly attracted he couldn't keep away had to visit her everyday, which his friends just had to teas him about he asked questions wanted to really know her and even walked her home
he was such golden retriever energy
I knew I liked him when someone trired flirting with him and pushing her goodles on display for him and he didn't even give her time of day as he was so enthralled in fml
Fml had flutters but kept saying only friends in the beginning she grew so much during this book both physically and mentally she wasn't the same person from the timid person at the start
Loved when the group was introduced how they all was so unique in there own way but worked as a family and friendship
I need a man that burly speak and can cook
The ending... the betrayal ...the lies ...the wedding planning i need book 2
Thank you to the author for the chance to arc was an amazing time
Fml and ml instantly attracted he couldn't keep away had to visit her everyday, which his friends just had to teas him about he asked questions wanted to really know her and even walked her home
he was such golden retriever energy
I knew I liked him when someone trired flirting with him and pushing her goodles on display for him and he didn't even give her time of day as he was so enthralled in fml
Fml had flutters but kept saying only friends in the beginning she grew so much during this book both physically and mentally she wasn't the same person from the timid person at the start
Loved when the group was introduced how they all was so unique in there own way but worked as a family and friendship
I need a man that burly speak and can cook
The ending... the betrayal ...the lies ...the wedding planning i need book 2
Thank you to the author for the chance to arc was an amazing time
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is one of my favorites of this year. Found family, surprise twists, daggers?? It has everything. It is a cozy start but you quickly realize there is much more happening. And every time you THINK you have it down, there is another turn. I can not wait for book 2.
Fawn is a fun character. Naïve and she knows it, she pushes hard to learn more about life. River is great, caring and a little mysterious. And shout out to the found family, they're such great characters and I found myself cheering them on as well, and I hope they get even more stage time in book 2!! Beckett is a wild spirit and he just might be my favorite.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this book in advance. This review is my own opinion.
Fawn is a fun character. Naïve and she knows it, she pushes hard to learn more about life. River is great, caring and a little mysterious. And shout out to the found family, they're such great characters and I found myself cheering them on as well, and I hope they get even more stage time in book 2!! Beckett is a wild spirit and he just might be my favorite.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this book in advance. This review is my own opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a little gem🤩. This slowburn love story is really well written and the characters are rounded and believable. Fawn (the fmc) has grown up in a forrest with only her mother for company. She has never been allowed into the nearby city and never really questioned this. One day her mother falls and injures her foot which forces her to allow Fawn to go into the city to tend their stall to keep earning an income for them to live on. A whole new world opens for Fawn and soon she meets the handsome Captain and they soon find their souls tethered. I loved this book and can’t wait for the next instalment of their story.
May 19, 2026
I was lucky enough to arc read this book!!! The author sent me an advanced copy for an honest review.
Fawn (FMC) is a sheltered daughter as her mother has kept her hidden away in the forest. Her mother comes home injured one night which forces Fawn to go out into the world and seek help. She stumbles upon the Captain of the Guard she is introduced to a world that she never knew existed.
This book was really a great read and I enjoyed it very much. Some things your will find in this book are: found family, fated mates, forbidden romance, magical bonds and heartbreak and betrayal. If you love any of these tropes, you will love this book.
Fawn (FMC) is a sheltered daughter as her mother has kept her hidden away in the forest. Her mother comes home injured one night which forces Fawn to go out into the world and seek help. She stumbles upon the Captain of the Guard she is introduced to a world that she never knew existed.
This book was really a great read and I enjoyed it very much. Some things your will find in this book are: found family, fated mates, forbidden romance, magical bonds and heartbreak and betrayal. If you love any of these tropes, you will love this book.
May 26, 2026
The first half of this book is Rapunzel and Mother Gothel vibes, very slow paced with her day to day life activities. Then things quickly escalate during the second half and explode at the end. I enjoyed the found family aspect and that the MCs don't rush into things. I really liked the accuracy of the FMC's training and real life experience. Too often this is romanticized and unrealistic, but Mazzei keeps it real here and I appreciated that. I am fully invested in the series and plan on reading the next book! Hoping for more action throughout and even pacing, along with some answers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
June 1, 2026
Really loved this
This was such a great read. The book started with what felt such small stakes but I felt stressed for Fawn as she would come home late and have to lie. The stakes then got far higher and I was even more stressed and concerned as I devoured every page. The found family and the relationship between Fawn and River is absolutely delightful. I loved seeing how they all came to love Fawn so much and I loved how Fawn’s character developed but she was still Fawn. Specific scenes I was shrieking into my phone out of giddiness. Absolutely loved it and I can’t wait for book 2! I want it like now!
This was such a great read. The book started with what felt such small stakes but I felt stressed for Fawn as she would come home late and have to lie. The stakes then got far higher and I was even more stressed and concerned as I devoured every page. The found family and the relationship between Fawn and River is absolutely delightful. I loved seeing how they all came to love Fawn so much and I loved how Fawn’s character developed but she was still Fawn. Specific scenes I was shrieking into my phone out of giddiness. Absolutely loved it and I can’t wait for book 2! I want it like now!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This ARC gave me Rapunzel vibes.
A journey of self discovery and a revelation that could change everything for our FMC as she discovers the world beyond her cabin in the woods.
Tethered is a nice easy read with romance, intruige, betrayal and found family.
I found the FMCs marurity level to be that of a teen which on reflection fits with the solitary life she has grown up in. Her wonder at what others take for granted is wholesome and her confidence in the real world mirrors that of a trusting child yet all is not as it seems.
A journey of self discovery and a revelation that could change everything for our FMC as she discovers the world beyond her cabin in the woods.
Tethered is a nice easy read with romance, intruige, betrayal and found family.
I found the FMCs marurity level to be that of a teen which on reflection fits with the solitary life she has grown up in. Her wonder at what others take for granted is wholesome and her confidence in the real world mirrors that of a trusting child yet all is not as it seems.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Imagine growing up secluded your whole life and then finally getting a glimpse at the world beyond everything you’ve ever known.
This book was so good! Fawn is such a lovable FMC, and I was invested in her journey from the very beginning. River, a captain in the King’s army, brought so much tension and intrigue to the story. Between the found family, prophecies, secrets, truths, and lies, I was completely hooked the entire time.
And that ending?! I literally had to pick my jaw up off the floor. I need book 2 immediately!
This book was so good! Fawn is such a lovable FMC, and I was invested in her journey from the very beginning. River, a captain in the King’s army, brought so much tension and intrigue to the story. Between the found family, prophecies, secrets, truths, and lies, I was completely hooked the entire time.
And that ending?! I literally had to pick my jaw up off the floor. I need book 2 immediately!
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