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Tethered
Not yet published
Expected 19 May 26She 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.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 19, 2026
6 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Jordan Mazzei
1 book6 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 - 19 of 19 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🧠
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
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!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Fawn has had a sheltered life, growing up in a cottage in the depths of the forest. Until an injury forces her mother to cut the apron strings, and she's finally allowed to visit the city to run their flower and herb stall. The resulting life experience isn't one she's keen to let go of, especially when she meets River, the handsome captain of the guard. But her mother has different ideas...
This was an absorbing fantasy romance from a promising debut author and I loved the fairytale feel of it. The immersive writing style kept me glued to the pages and Fawn and River's slow burn romance was adorable. Recommended for fans of Tangled, fated mates, found family, hidden secrets and strong female friendships.
Thank you to the author for the E-ARC copy!
This was an absorbing fantasy romance from a promising debut author and I loved the fairytale feel of it. The immersive writing style kept me glued to the pages and Fawn and River's slow burn romance was adorable. Recommended for fans of Tangled, fated mates, found family, hidden secrets and strong female friendships.
Thank you to the author for the E-ARC copy!
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
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.
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
ARC copy from author.
I got really in to this book!!! Fawn is amazing and her growth in to a bad a** is perfect!!! River.... I actually really like him. the last few pages had me!!! I need the second book like yesterday because I gotta know whats going to come!!!
Love it 5 stars. I will be buying it in physical copy when its out!!
I got really in to this book!!! Fawn is amazing and her growth in to a bad a** is perfect!!! River.... I actually really like him. the last few pages had me!!! I need the second book like yesterday because I gotta know whats going to come!!!
Love it 5 stars. I will be buying it in physical copy when its out!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This gives major fairytale vibes with a slow burn romance and some twists! It does leave you on a cliffhanger but a satisfying one in preparation for the next book! It does have some light spice but leaves room for major spice in the coming book(s). The FMC is kind and gentle, learning about the world. Definitely worth the read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as an ARC.
This book was so good. I read it too quickly for that cliffhanger and cannot wait for the next book!
I was worried this book would be naturally slow, because of Fawn experiencing everything for the first time, but the pacing was great and it really does keep you on your toes.
This book was so good. I read it too quickly for that cliffhanger and cannot wait for the next book!
I was worried this book would be naturally slow, because of Fawn experiencing everything for the first time, but the pacing was great and it really does keep you on your toes.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Definitely a great light fantasy read with a twist at the end that leaves you seriously wanting book two! River and Fawn are so so perfect. I love the sweetness.
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April 2, 2026Advanced reader ARC review
I enjoyed this story. It reminds me of a Rupunzle and sleeping beauty mix almost. the twist and turns were not predictable and the cliff hanger is a twist I did not see. looking forward to the next in the series.
I enjoyed this story. It reminds me of a Rupunzle and sleeping beauty mix almost. the twist and turns were not predictable and the cliff hanger is a twist I did not see. looking forward to the next in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an ARC read. Good plot and pacing. Great plot twists and surprises. One of the best found family tropes I’ve ever read. I did not see that ending coming, can’t wait for book 2!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews