Vameer

Bonded Souls #2

by S.J. Tilly

Rune
Today is my thirtieth birthday. My parents mailed me a gift, like they always do, but I accidentally nick my thumb while opening the box.
A tiny drop of blood wells on my skin. And without thought, I press the tip of my thumb between my lips and close my eyes.
When I open them, I’m no longer in my apartment.
I’m on the side of a mountain. Standing in the rain.
Convinced this isn’t real, I seek shelter in a cave. But I’m unable to stop myself from moving deeper into the cavern.
Where I find him.
A man, lying inside a hidden chamber, sleeping atop an altar.
My body is not my own as I walk closer. As I reach out to touch him.
To see if he’s real.
But then a force stills my hand above his face. And my heart… stops beating. The muscle freezes inside my ribs.
While I panic, unable to move, I watch as a single drop of blood beads on my thumb. And falls. Landing perfectly between his parted lips.
He opens his eyes. My heart finally resumes beating. I stumble back, falling…
And land on my apartment floor.
It was a dream. A hallucination. Not real.
Except my clothes are wet.
And I feel the weight of him inside my chest.

Vameer
I only meant to lie down for a little while. A few weeks to rest.
Gods, I just needed to rest.
But instead of waking on my own, I’m woken by the unmistakable taste of my mate’s blood on my tongue.
We lock eyes. My solid black orbs to her human ones. But then she disappears.
When I follow her scent to the entrance of the cave, I find that the world has changed.
I don’t know where my mate went.
I don’t know how to find my brother.
But I know I must find both of them before my enemies do.
And I fear I may have slept longer than I meant to.

Genres: Vampires, Paranormal, Fantasy, Dark Romance

562 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication September 3, 2026

About the author

S.J. Tilly lives in Minnesota with her husband and their herd of boxers. She spends an unhealthy amount of time with her face buried in books, reading and writing. If she’s not nose deep in text, or harassing her dogs, she’s probably playing with her plants, pretending she knows how to garden.

You can find her stumbling around on Instagram @sjtillyauthor

https://www.amazon.com/S.J.-Tilly/e/B...

Reviews

[Lisa Ann D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

🩸“I will protect you out there.” His fingers pinch my nipple as the invisible force drags my pants, and panties, down my hips. “And I will take care of you here.”🩸


🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸
𝗲𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
𝗩𝗔𝗠𝗘𝗘𝗥
𝗯𝘆 @sjtillyauthor
🩸
𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗬 𝗠𝗙'𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗩𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗦... I am not saying this is better than VOLIK- but right now, today VAMEER is my favorite. Babe has a big sword and knows how to use it 👀‼️🥵

‼️ Spoiler free as always— but baybee, you are not ready for this big beautiful beast. And RUNE??? Mama is a queen ‼️
𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘

𝗪𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝘁 𝘂𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝗼!

Big satisfying payoff all around. The sea creatures? Even better than I could have imagined. Loved what SJT gave us here. 𝗡𝗢 𝗡𝗢𝗧𝗘𝗦!
🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸

Dread I see you!
Orion?! Bring it!!
Mystery person… yes please!!
🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️


→ GENERAL BREAKDOWN:
PLOT 5
MAIN CHARACTERS 5
WRITING STYLE 5
ENJOYMENT 5
SETTING 5
MISCELLANEOUS 4
SECONDARY CHARACTERS 5
OTHER 4
ENGAGEMENT 5
EASE OF READING 5
BONUS FOR REP 4
VIBES 5
OVERALL TOTAL: ★★★★★
𝗙𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗦


🗡️
Release Date SEPT 3RD 2026
🗡️
‼️Book 2 in the Bonded Souls Series
🩸Overprotective vampire
/ Interfector Mali
💋Plus size heroine
🩸Fated mates
👀Swords and sea creatures
🗡️Accidentally slept for 100 years
‼️🥵‼️



𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴. 𝗕𝗲 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘄𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀, 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝘃𝗲𝘀.
❤︎ ❤︎ ❤︎
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗤𝗨𝗘𝗘𝗥 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗙𝗔𝗧 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗗𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗘 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥
✨🌈✨

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rune is turning 30, plus size (or fun size if you ask Vameer), Red hair, funny, quirky, a bit of a wanderer, unclear of her purpose in life. She is sure in for a wild ride in this alternate SJ Tilly universe. Rune is an only child to parents who wander the globe in search of their next adventure. She has led a good and ordinary life. Never needing for love or companionship but instead believes herself to be asexual. On the eve of her birthday a drop of her blood from a cut leaves her transported into another place entirely. A cave with a very large male body on an alter. Drawn to this man, Rune can not help herself but to draw near. One drop of her blood on the man wakes him with his pitch black eyes and catapults Rune back to her own apartment with more questions than answers and mostly questioning her sanity and her newly awakened libido.

She tastes like chocolate and smells of apples. Vameer is awakened from a century long sleep by the most alluring creature he’s ever come in contact with. He immediately grows in size to 8 feet tall and knows that the person he seeks is his Mate. Vameer is a vampire and a very old one. He has gone by many names but is known for being a warrior of old. Vameer is on the quest to find the woman and figure out how long he accidentally slept for. SJ Tilly gives a performance of her life with this story. We are introduced to her unique humor on many occasions. The first being Vameer stopping at an Irish pub on his information quest. The owners are friendly and assist Vameer by introducing him to “the internet” this is where it’s quite impressive how Tilly manages to rehash the history of the vampires without rehashing the entire first book. He’s a quick study and moves along back to his quest to find his mate and his brother who he learns is newly Mated. These two characters you meet in book one VOLIK and Nix.

Finding his mate leaves Vameer battling with his own conscience . Knowing Rune is a human and fragile and knowing that he has many enemies, Vameer is attempting to hold himself back from Rune “for her safety” In this series Tilly dubs the vampire power “Gravito” Vameer has a relationship with his Gravito that made me cackle on numerous occasions. Vameer vs Gravito in the battle of should we leave our mate alone for her mortal safety left me snort laughing. Back in the cave, Rune dropped a rainbow bracelet and the sweetness of this fierce warrior has him seeking that small connection to her by wearing her stretchy rainbow bracelet on his giant wrist and being so offended If someone deigns to look at it that he covers it with his Gravito.

The story line does not leave you wondering what’s next, you just need to keep up. It clips right Along and is so action packed from start to end. In book one the world is introduced to shifters and in book two the government needs to be shown that the “alts” can mobilize and coordinate more than they know.

The story line takes you into some suspense with an ancient king out to kill Vameer, a building collapse, kidnapping and rescue mission, also with some opportunity for Vameer and company to show out on their warrior skills. Also, insert Albeit briefly, a new character full of intrigue with sawed off horns and Druid powers. I think this is not the last we will see of this warrior.

If you have followed through book one, you know that Volik, younger brother to Vameer, Has spent the last century searching for his brother. Tilly leaves you loving the relationship between these two brothers. Their dynamic really shows Vameers mischievous side and also his humor. The character build also pulls the friend crew in. You can very clearly see that Tilly is setting the scene for Orion (Shifter alpha) and Dread (super cool Druid) to continue to play active roles in this series and have their own books. This is a skill that SJ Tilly has successfully honed through her years of writing, camaraderie.

If we get into the spicy steam of the book 10 points to SJ for most creative spicy scenes. There may be a bit of help from the Gravito and some aerial happenings. Creativity flows here.

The threads continue to weave with the characters, SJ is definitely setting up the scene well for a whole new world full to the brim of really cool characters that will need love too. I am looking forward to what’s next because there is at the very end, a teaser and I think it will be wildly entertaining.

And did I mention Eagles? So cool. I guess you will just have to find out by reading this yourself. Don’t sleep on the series. SJ has never disappointed and definitely is not starting now. 10/10 recommend. Can’t wait for the audio to release and also get to love that with a cast of Samantha Brentmoor, Sean Masters. Chloe Ryan, & Walker Williams.

Long story short go read the book.

[Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Bonded Souls series which features Vameer, Volik's big brother. I feel like this could be read as a standalone if someone was picking up this world for the first time, but it was also extremely enjoyable already knowing the background of vampires and shifters within the Tillyverse so I could walk the path right along with Rune and also share in the inside humor as Vameer awakens to a brand new world.

We first meet Vameer as an extremely tired warrior vampire who just wants to take a nap. I could totally sympathize with this vamp in search of a nice, quiet place to lay his head for just a few moments of shut-eye. Vameer never expected to sleep like Rip Van Winkle, for a hundred and three years, and wake to a completely different age. Cell phones, the internet, speeding cars-not that he needs one since he can super sonic jump, but there have been so many advances that have come about since he went to sleep.

The entire book is sweet, it's funny, and quite adventurous all while we come to find out that Vameer, the crusted ol' warrior, is just a big teddy bear. That's right I said it. Now, would I want to meet him in an alleyway, no. But do I love him for Rune, hell yes!! When Vameer awakens that is his primary focus, his one objective...to find his mate. Forever and for the end of time he will protect and love Rune and it's the best thing ever. 😍 He protects her and fights anyone who will harm his woman. It's all very hot and I'm not going to say more. 😏🥵

Rune, upon her thirtieth birthday, has quite the experience. I won't give it away, but that is when everything in her life changes and she meets Vameer, her mate. She goes from quiet shop keeper to vampire mate and pretty much running for her life after that, but if you would ask her, she wouldn't trade it for the world. Yeah, Vameer has that kind of effect on a girl. 💜

I mean for Vameer he is locked in on Rune 110% and then after Rune, his only order of business was his brother and their reunion reunion, which was just as sweet. To have that kind of dedication and focus was kind of nice to read. For two huge vampires it's quite adorable to see the brotherly bond that Vameer and Volik shared. Nix and Rune instantly bonded as well, which was also super sweet as their sisterhood meant a lot, especially since they both didn't have a lot of family in their lives. However, some of my favorite parts involved Dread. I cannot wait for his story and to unlock all his mysterious magic and origin story. Dread is really coming to light more, along with some other secondary characters who are quite intriguing. I'm very excited that this world is growing and everything, literally everything about it, is fantastic!!

Vameer is another wonderful story about finding your person, whether that means you had to take a nap for over a hundred years in order to wait for her, or you didn't know what direction your life was taking when you met your soulmate through a bonded connection that didn't always make sense. However, your soul mate is meant to come into your life, it will make sense to both of you and that is the most important part of any story as true love will always prevail. Lastly, I can't wait to return and read more from this amazing universe.

[Amanda Botello-Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series seriously just keeps getting better and better. We pick up right where book 1 left off where Rune finds Vameer in the cave and from then on, we're taken on a journey. I admit, I do like the fact that we have to wait a bit until our mcs are reunited/find each other again because in the meantime we get to learn a little bit more about Vameer and how he ended up sleeping for 103 years.

I also love how, in finding his way back to Rune, he meets some new friends and is discovering this different and new world he woke up in. He kind of takes this all in stride and is eager to learn, a thirst for knowledge, if you will lol And when he does find his girl? MAGIC. You can immediately feel the love and yearning (from both sides) and just the fierce protectiveness they both have for each other. And don't even get me started on Vameer's bossy side. HOT. The spice between these two were just *chefs kiss*

I was also so looking forward to the Vadas brothers reunion and it did not disappoint. Their banter was everything and the way that you can just tell they love and miss each other so much but can't resist the back and forth squabbling that siblings just naturally do. "If you want to compare sizes, little brother, just say so." "I see you did not mature while you slept." They had me laughing so hard with their sibling antics.

I think one thing I was looking for a little more was a bit more backstory as to why the enemy in this book was so dead set on taking Vameer out. I understand he has lots of enemies because he is a warrior and has made more foes than he has friends over the years, but I just feel like I found myself having a bit more questions about the backstory on the main feud and wanted to know more. Otherwise, the battle was great, the friends that came to assist (some you should recognize from Volik's book but also a few new friendly faces) were an amazing add in as always. Love getting to see them work all together. I'm loving this growing friend group, especially Dread...... okay and Orion too. Cannot wait until we get both of their books!

Overall, I enjoyed myself (I knew I would, S.J. Tilly always nails it with her books) and would absolutely recommend to anyone who is looking for a paranormal romance who is a fan of the following tropes: Fated mates, Size difference, Touch them and die, Overprotective vampire, Plus-Size heroine, HEA.

Thank you so so much to S.J. Tilly and The Smuthood for the opportunity to read this advanced copy!

[Miranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚠️ Minor spoilers ahead ⚠️


Tropes: • Overprotective Vampire • Plus-Size Heroine • Fated Mates • Sea Creatures • Accidentally Slept for 100 Years

First, I absolutely love the Irish Pub crew! They are the best side characters. I loved how they immediately embraced Vameer and helped him learn everything he could after waking up 100 years later.

Let’s get into Rune. She is such a delight. She lives above an art gallery in a little town in upstate New York, and I could feel her easy joy right from the beginning. I really liked the differences between her story and Nix’s, especially how they each evolve as mates to their respective vampires. I loved the pace of Volik, but the pace of this one feels perfectly different.

“I start to relax my features, then lurch forward, my heart thudding. Are my eyes black? … I’m not a vampire’s mate. I can’t be.”

Rune starts changing before Nix did, and I can’t help but wonder if that’s because Vameer is more powerful than his brother. 👀

Of course, the government has to get involved in things they shouldn’t be—spying on the alts and trying to “handle” things they have no business handling. I also NEED to know who Government Guy is. I have a feeling he’s actually a good guy trapped in a really crappy situation.

“Apples. And home. That’s what I wake to. My arms tighten around my mate as lightning pools in my eyes.”

Vameer’s fear of falling asleep really got to me. I had a similar experience after not waking up on my own from a low blood sugar, so I could understand that fear. Rune’s response was perfect. He just needed the reassurance that this time, he wasn’t alone.

Also… is Abigail’s Bakery the new Beanbag Coffee Shop of this series? Because I LOVE that if it is.

And then we have the Druid/Vampire guy who shows up toward the end?! He says, “Deos perdere debeo!” which I believe means something along the lines of, “I am bound to ruin the gods.” Then Dread says, “That man is cursed.” EXCUSE ME?! I have so many questions!

And ORION. I am SO excited for Orion, but the wait?! GAH!

So much happened in this book, and I’m so excited for what’s coming next. SJ, you seriously know how to reel us in and leave us desperately wanting more. It’s the absolute best and worst. 😂

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

The moment she turns thirty, Rune finds herself transported from her apartment to a dark cave, and standing over what looks to be a dead man, until one drop of her blood makes his eyes open. Back in her apartment, she tries to reason with herself, telling herself it was some sort of hallucination, but the days that follow include more unexplained events, not to mention the changes to her body. She’s convinced she’s losing her mind until He shows up, declaring himself her mate. Their paring isn’t without it’s own brand of chaos, as it quickly becomes clear he is being hunted by someone, and they are forced to turn to his brother and allies for reinforcements.

Vameer meant to sleep for a few weeks at most, so when he wakes up 103 years later in a world he doesn’t recognize, culture shock is the least of his problems. But from the moment he opens his eyes he knows his mate has found him, and now he just needs to get to her. Rune is everything he could have asked for in a mate, but her being human adds a layer of vulnerability he hadn’t expected. With new and old enemies working together to eliminate them both, Vameer reunites with his brother Volik to make it clear to the world that anyone who threatens his family won’t live long.

I received an early copy of this book from the author and I absolutely loved it! While Volik’s book was more about integrating in the human world, I liked that Vameer’s offered a different perspective. His newness to the modern world gives him a sort of innocence that is hard to resist. The brothers couldn’t be more different in personality, but their protective instincts when it comes to their mates and family are identical, and their banter added a whole other element to the story. The love between Rune and Vameer is instant and undeniable, as their connection did more than just join them in one heartbeat, and their willingness to keep each other safe at all cost makes them almost invincible. I love how the book already gave us a peek at the next bonded pair, and I can’t wait to see how their story plays out.

[Dominique Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC gifted in exchange for review

500 stars no notes actually.

I have been a big fan of S.J. Tilly and her writing for a couple years now and so sorry to the Alliance and Mountain Men but Bonded Souls has now firmly cemented itself as my favorite series of hers.

I ate up Volik and I knew I was going to inhale Vameer. I was hooked from page 1 because it genuinely is that good. Take everything that you’ve read before about vampires (except what you learned in Volik because don’t be crazy, read Volik first!) and throw it out the window. The Vadas brothers are like nothing I’ve ever encountered before. In Vameer we not only get fated mates and Vameer’s redemption arc (in his eyes), we also get brothers reunited, found family, solid friendships, so much action that you will literally be on the edge of your seat, and a love story that will make you swoon, blush, giggle and cry all at the same time. I love the different POVs that help give a more complete view of everything that’s going on. The way that Vameer would go scorched earth for those under his protection? Need that!! I loved seeing the relationship between the brothers, but also how Rune helped him overcome his guilt and forgive himself for sleeping way longer than he planned to. There were so many beautiful elements of love woven into this story: the love between mates, the love between brothers, the love between family (blood and found), and the love for those under their protection. The spice was top tier as always and that’s a given when it comes to anything written by this author. This book will suck you in from page 1 and you will forget about everything else but what’s happening because everything about it is so well done.

I am so excited for release day so that everyone else can experience the magic that is Vameer, and I will be patiently waiting for 2028 to get Orion’s story because I just know that it’s going to be a great one.

[Rondi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vameer.

First, let’s be honest: I don’t read tons of vampire books. But do you know what I do read? SJ Tilly. And these brothers? Exquisite. This is exactly what I needed in my reading world.

I love learning about different creatures, their magic, their histories, and especially learning WHY Vameer ended up sleeping for so long. And I loved that when he finally woke up, he knew he’d been gone for a long time, but instead of being angry or upset about everything he’d missed, he was genuinely fascinated by the world that had changed while he was gone. He knew he needed to take the time to learn.

I love how the boys found each other, and Rune realizing just how much fun it would be to have a sister. Because if there’s one thing SJ’s men do, it’s fall hard and fast for their ladies - and Vameer is absolutely no different.

And Orion. I LOVE ORION.
I love Dread.
I love drunken vampires.

Honestly, some of my favorite parts of this story are the different POVs from people experiencing the Alts in the world. There’s just something about seeing these creatures through the eyes of people who have never encountered anything like them before that I absolutely loved.

I also love that the Vadas brothers are MASSIVE and still somehow manage to act exactly like brothers. The little back-and-forths, the flicks, the teasing … all of it.

And Rune’s family?! TOP TIER.

I love when certain families in SJ’s books are actually good people because, let’s be honest, most of them aren’t exactly winning Family of the Year. But her parents?! UGH. My heavens. I adore them.

And let’s discuss the spice because once again … SJ HAS DONE IT.

Vameer is definitely more dominant than his brother, but my God, Rune loves it - and you know what?

So do I.

This book is absolutely fantastic. You are going to want MORE.

And maybe, just maybe …

Wait for 2028.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️ ARC REVIEW ❤️

Vameer by SJ Tilly
Vameer & Rune

❤️ RELEASING: SEPTEMBER 3rd, 2026 ❤️

My Rating: 5☆
Bonded Souls Book Two
Spicy Vampire Romance
Vampire & Human
Plus Size Virgin FMC
Fated Mates
Overprotective Vampire
Multi POV
Short Chapters
Alternate Tilly Verse
My Spicy Rating: 3.5🌶

REVIEW:

❤️ What an adventure I just read. I don't even know how to explain how much I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I don't read paranormal romance very often but Vameer is my new favorite vampire. This book is everything and more. I couldn't put it down. It's addicting. It's funny. It's spicy. It's adventure-packed. The short chapters. I literally said 'one more chapter' and read 10 more. Haha.
❤️ Vameer, he's just perfection. He is very protective. He's obsessed with Rune. He's sweet just to her. And I'm very obsessed with his 'Mon Coeur' nickname. Swoon.
❤️ The brotherly love. The banter and jokes between them after not seeing each other for over 100 years. When they were drunk. You have to read this book to enjoy that moment. It had me laughing. Drunk vampires? Yes, please. But before you read Vameer, you have to read Volik.
❤️ I loved the side characters and multiple POV's. Reading from their perspectives was very fun. Haruto is very funny. I loved how gravito was given it's own personality. And the druid. I need his story. Please.
❤️ And my favorite part, the spicy scenes. SJ Tilly did an amazing job writing them. I LOVE when an author writes unique and distinct spicy scenes. New moments I've never read before. This is what I base my spicy ratings on. How original, unique, smutty and different the scenes are. Quality over quantity. And SJ Tilly gave us just that.

Thank you for writing such amazing books. Thank you to SJ Tilly and The Smuthood for letting me ARC read this fantastic book. I can't wait for more. Vameer will be available to read on September 3rd, 2026.

[erikaemiliabooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

After loving Volik, I was already fully invested in S.J. Tilly’s paranormal world, so getting Vameer’s story was something I was very excited for—and it did not disappoint.
This book had everything I love: overprotective heroes, fated mates, hilarious banter, found family, spice, action, and plenty of chaos.

I absolutely loved Vameer and Rune together. Their mate bond was intense, but I especially loved seeing Vameer finally find someone to love and protect after being alone for so long. Rune was such a great heroine—strong, funny, and unapologetically herself. I also loved having a plus-size heroine at the center of the story.

The multiple POVs were one of my favorite parts because they gave us an even bigger view of the world and everything happening around the characters. And Vameer and Volik as brothers? Their banter was EVERYTHING. I loved seeing more of their relationship and watching them act like actual brothers.

I loved Rune’s family and all the found-family dynamics. There was so much heart underneath all the supernatural chaos, and the love and support between the characters made the story even more special.

And waking up after 103 years and having to figure out modern life? 😂 Absolutely hilarious.

Also… Orion. I NEED HIS STORY. I already know I’m going to be impatiently waiting for it.

If you love overprotective vampires, fated mates, plus-size heroines, found family, supernatural creatures, brotherly banter, and spice, definitely pick this one up.

Vameer was funny, spicy, romantic, chaotic, and heartfelt—and I loved every minute of it.

A huge thank you to S.J. Tilly and SmutHood for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I’m so grateful I got to experience Vameer early! ❤️

5/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[ANA GARCIA · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was beyond grateful to receive an ARC of *Vameer*. Thank you to S.J. Tilly and Keeperton for the opportunity to read it early.

After *Volik* completely blew me away, I was really looking forward to this second book. The little glimpse we got of *Vameer* in the first book had me holding my breath for Rune and Vameer's story, so I was very curious to see where it would take us.

And I did love their story.

I really enjoyed the way Rune and Vameer found each other, and I especially loved Rune's parents and their immediate acceptance of her very unusual situation. Their reaction felt refreshing and added something lovely to the story. I also really enjoyed the encounter between the two brothers — definitely one of the moments that stayed with me.

Even though this is another vampire-and-human mates story, it doesn't feel like a repeat of *Volik*. The two books have noticeably different vibes, and I liked that S.J. Tilly gave this story its own identity rather than simply trying to recreate the first book.

That being said, *Volik* set the bar incredibly high for me, and unfortunately *Vameer* didn't quite hit me in the same way. I enjoyed it, I was invested in Rune and Vameer's relationship, and I thought it was an overall very enjoyable read — it just didn't have quite the same impact that Book 1 had.

There is also an Easter egg for Book 3, which definitely caught my attention. Now I just have to accept that we're apparently waiting until 2028 for that one. 😭

Regardless, this is absolutely a series I'll be following. I'm very curious to see where S.J. Tilly takes the Bonded Souls world next.

A really enjoyable second book in a series that I'm definitely not ready to give up on.

[Gabby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I throughly enjoyed myself reading this book. Not just the romance aspect of it but the storyline and the relationships. Yes, we got a lot of the world building in Volik but we got more in this one. We got to see Vameer and Volik reunite and their relationship. We got to see Rune and Nix meet and build a sisterly bond. We got to see more of Dread the Druid. At the end of the day, this book made me so happy.

When Rune turns 30, at the exact time of her birth time, she is transported to a cave. In that cave is Vameer. And with one drop of her blood, his 103 year slumber is over but Rune is transported back to her apartment. Rune thinks it was a dream but Vameer knows he found his mate, and will stop at nothing to find her.

I love the mate bond in these books, especially their hearts beating as one. I love that Vameer can calm her down being so far from her at first. Let me tell you, his journey to find her was so entertaining. The new friends he made, I was chuckling. Can you imagine waking up 103 years later and the world is so different? He had to learn about the internet, it sounds so daunting.

What I loved most about this one was Volik and Vameer being so funny as brothers and add in the Druid and I was so happy reading them. I also really loved Rune and Nix getting to know one another and working together. I cannot wait for more from this world.

Thank you to SJ Tilly for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Tropes:
✨Overprotective vampire
✨Infector Mali
✨Plus size heroine
✨Fated mates
✨Swords and sea creatures
✨Accidentally slept for 100 years
✨Alternate Tilly verse

[MN Book Lady · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so fantastic, and I think I liked Vameer more than I did Volik.

After being asleep for over a hundred years, Vameer is visited by his fated mate, and one drop of her blood brings him out of his sleep and gives him enough strength to leave his cave. Where he finds the world is a much different place than what he left. Rune has always felt the need to move around, and now that she's turned thirty, it seems like she's found her purpose. It's a good thing she watched and was in awe of what Volik and Nix went through and wanted that for herself because that's exactly what she got. Only, Vameer was more of a warrior than Volik and had and still has enemies out to get him. So what happens when her vampire awakens earlier than Nix's did and Rune won't just sit by and let Vameer be the hero all the time?

Vameer and Rune get their happy ending in this standalone book in a series.

These two were absolutely perfect together, and I loved how excited Rune was about being a mate to a vampire. Though I hated how much she worried about not being enough for him initially and loved that Vameer made sure that she knew how much she meant to him. I do wish we could have seen a race between the brothers or a good-natured battle between Vameer and Dread, just to see Vameer's strength against someone close to his power. Although Dread may be holding back, and we don't know his full power yet. I can't wait to see how this series continues in the future and what other chaos is caused by these supernatural forces coming together!

I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

“She is stunning. She is perfect. And she is mine.” – Vameer
***Clapping*** SJ Tilly, all I can say to start this review is bravo! I knew I liked Volik and Nix’s story, but Vameer and Rune blew me away. With Volik being the first book in a new series I understood why we needed the background history and many details to keep us informed and to build the scene. I liked the Volik don’t get me wrong, but Vameer just came, conquered and won the battle.

Vameer is the big brother of Volik, he is a warrior and he is disciplined until he meets his mate. I love how funny and relatable Vameer is even though he is “a few” years older. His playfulness and humor stole my soul away ***laughter***. Even though he had to learn about the new world he woke to he knew in his heart and soul that all he needed to do was find his mate and be with her. I enjoyed his whole warrior vibe, all in all it made him a big teddy bear but with a sword.

Rune is such a relatable character, she is strong and kind of a wonderer. I loved all of her inner monologue. She was making me laugh at every turn since she had no clue what was happening to her, she just knew she needed to wait for something. She was strong and lovable, the perfect fit for Vameer.

The plot, the spicy scenes, the humor. This was an amazing book. I felt like this was just the beginning of an incredible series into the new world SJ Tilly is creating. I cannot wait to meet and read the stories of the other characters we have meet or haven’t “yet”. Keep them coming, Mrs. Tilly because we will definitely eat them up!

[Carolin Aichner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not that I had any doubts going into this, but Ms. Tilly has done it again. Vameer is... everything. And more 😏 I typically don't read vampire romance (more into werewolves if PNR), but whatever SJ Tilly puts in front of me I will devour with a smile and thank her for it. Getting this ARC for my birthday was the highlight of my year 🥰

Also like, I knew that Vameer would wake up and return when I read Volik, but that didn't stop me from shedding a happy tear or two when they finally met again. And started joking about their sizes right away like brothers would lol.

I loved Rune. She had a little advantage over Nyx (as in she knew Nyx's story and therefore was kind of mentally prepared and ready for the changes) and she used it! No damsel in distress to be found in this book, and the fact that the brothers knew that and them was the it's bitsy cherry on top of this hot fudge sundae.

I read through this so fast I didn't even take my usual highlights... I suppose I will wait for the release date to re-read and rectify that 😅

I feel like I would give away spoilers if I keep rambling, so I'll just leave with this:
Read this if you like insta-love + insta-lust (as it should be with fated mates), he protects her something fierce (including unaliving everyone who tries to harm her) and drunk vampires. And bees. Just read this 🙃

Thank you to The Smuthood and the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great book! While not strictly necessary to have read the first one in the series, “Volik,” I would highly recommend it. The world building begins there and it would make things easier to understand if you’ve read it.

Vameer is a vampire who has been asleep for 103 years and finally wakes up to find his mate there with him. Rune is a human, and she’s felt a bit lost her entire life. When she finds Vameer everything clicks into place. Vameer still has enemies though, and danger comes their way.

One of the things I really love about this series is that complete and quick acceptance by the FMC’s that they are the mates of a vampire. They don’t fight the attraction and are all in right from the beginning. Rune’s feelings of finding her person, and fully getting on board with the vampire lifestyle was great.

It was wonderful when Vameer and his brother Volik reunited after a century apart. It was fun to have Volik and his mate Nix be involved in everything. S.J. is expanding the world with more paranormal characters being brought in, and I can’t wait to learn about them. The action gets intense at the end of the book, and a lot happens. I want to thank The Smuthood and S.J. Tilly for the advanced copy of this book, I voluntarily chose to leave a review.

No third act breakup

4/5 on the Spicy Scale

Graphic violence

[• Dan reads books • · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok Tilly I see what you did here and I LOVE IT!

Not gonna lie, Vameer was a character that with only being named as the “warrior brother” in the first book immediately caught my attention so I was impatiently waiting for this book and let me tell you, this vampire is WORTH THE WAIT.

He is stoic, strong, unbreakable and a grump at heart but I love seeing him rediscovering the world, there’s a certain charm and cuteness in his frustration for not understanding the internet or small cell phone haha

And you know I’m a sucker for fated mates, stories, they always have this magic in it but here is just so freaking ethereal and almost prophetic how he was in a sleep for a tons of year waiting for his true mate to wake him because the universe wants to give them a chance. And how Rune has this feeling of keep moving until she found this something that was missing in her life and the something was this majestic creature who is her mate… AHHH so poetic! I love them so much!

As the author stated, this book can be read as its own but being honest the first book did an amazing job with presenting us this paranormal world so in this one you can relax and enjoy Vameer finding his mate!

Besides the love story I really loved the background story of the whole conspiracy, secret agencies and dirty government… it’s so interesting and brings us a world with its own twist and uniqueness… it’s not just a vampire book but so much more.

No notes, I really enjoyed reading it and can’t wait for more of this world!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think an SJ Tilly book could bring me back from the dead. Her writing is just so addictive and the pace is so perfect. I just love it.

Once again I was hooked from page one! This different spin on paranormal is super fun without feeling too overwhelming if you know what I mean? Like I’m learning a new world but it’s not so heavy that I can’t keep up - she calls it contemporary fated mates I think as opposed to straight up paranormal and that resonates.

Vameer decided to take nap, like a month max, and wakes up over a hundred years later starting into the eyes of his fated mate.. but then she disappears so he has to spend a bit of time finding her, and finding out more about this modern world he’s woken up in.

Rune is a woman who has constantly been on the go without ever really having a destination in mind… until her 30th birthday when she suddenly finds herself face to face with a giant vampire.

These two are super cute and of course very steamy, sue me but I love instalove ESPECIALLY when it’s fated mates so this was everything I ever wanted.

And then the found family vibes going on? I am so here for this merry band of Alts. ALSO, PART IV!? I SEE WHAT YOU DID THERE!!

So so so excited for what comes next in this world!

Huge shout out to SJ Tilly and team for the opportunity to read Vameer early, yall are the greatest, thank you!

[Awilda Mercedes · Rating 5 out of 5]

On her thirtieth birthday, at the exact moment of her birth, Rune is pulled into a cave — and one drop of her blood ends Vameer’s 103-year slumber. She’s yanked back to her apartment before she can process it, thinking it was all a dream. Vameer knows better. He found his mate, and he will stop at nothing to find her again.
I loved learning about the different creatures, their magic, their histories — and especially the reason behind Vameer’s long sleep. When he finally woke and realized how much time had passed, he was genuinely fascinated by the world that had changed around him, and knew he needed to take the time to learn it.
Rune was such a great character to watch grow and bloom into herself, her strength through the chaos thrown at her was incredible And watching Vameer realize exactly what he needed to do to protect his mate and his family? Amazing.
Will be patiently waiting for Orion’s story because I already know it’s going to be so good.
🎧 Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor & Walker Williams, with special appearances by Chloe Ryan & Sean Masters — the chemistry brought is unmatched.

Things to know
Duet narration, multi pov, overprotective vampire, interfector Mali, plus size FMC, fated mates, swords & sea creatures, accidentally slept for 100 years, instalove

[katapolt13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

I am convinced that S.J. Tilly is unable to write a book I won’t like. I absolutely loved this book, I just have to say I think I liked Volik a teeny tiny bit more… I couldn’t even tell you why because Vameer was a dream as well. One thing that I really liked here was the bracelet component, it was extra sweet and made me smile.

Vameer has accidentally spent the last 103 year sleeping, having only meant to sleep for a month. After being awoken by his fated mate making an appearance, he is on a mission to find her. His journey doesn’t end once he finds her, things are only getting started as old enemies make their presence known.

Rune has spent her life wondering, looking for something she can’t name. She is thrown into an experience that seems like a dream, ending up in a cave to get out of the rain, she finds a man lying in on a slab deep inside of the cave. She is thrust back into her life and left wondering if that was a dream. Days later when the man from that vision shows up, she realizes it wasn’t as much of a dream as she thought.


✨ What to Expect ✨
🪄 Paranormal Romance
🧛‍♂️ Vampires
👐🏻 Age Gap
💞 Fated Mates
🖤 Dark Romance
👩‍🏫 Plus Size FMC
🚪 Forced Proximity

[Serene Maloney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Volik was amazing.... Vameer is even better!

When we learned Volik had a brother in the first book of the Bonded Souls series, we knew the next book would be about him. But meeting Vameer was nothing like I expected, it was even better!

The novel opens just as the last one left off with Rune celebrating her 30th birthday and being teleported into a weird cave. While there she stumbles upon a sleeping man who draws her attention as no man has before, and she witnesses him wake before being teleported home.

Vameer, after waking from a nap that lasted for 103 years, then sets out to find his mate, while adjusting to a new century. With an old enemy coming for him, and the government unhappy with his new arrival, Vameer must prove that catching this warrior won't be easy.

S. J. Tilly did another amazing job with this story. She gives a fantastic story line, hooking us from the first chapters. Gives us not just the views of Rune and Vameer, but also others which is something I love. We get to meet new friends, and have favorites return. The series so far has left me waiting excitedly for the next book.

Thank you so much to the author and the Smuthood for the advanced copy!

[Glenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg, omg, OMG!! 😭 Picture Phoebe jumping up and down with excitement… yep, that’s me right now!
Vameer has had me in a CHOKEHOLD from the minute I started, and THAT ENDING?! Ahhhh! Y’all, I seriously cannot wait for everyone to get their hands on this book. It’s everything and then some!

This book was SO much fun to read. I had so many moments where I was just sitting there giggling at the absolute antics happening throughout the story. 😂 Ms. Tilly seriously did her thing with this universe!
I didn’t think I could love anyone more than Volik and Nix, but then Rune and Vameer came along and completely stole their spot. And don’t even get me started on Vameer and Volik’s brotherly bond.

Then we get hit with twist after twist and revelation after revelation, and OMG… this universe is so freaking addictive and exciting that I can barely keep my thoughts straight!
AND THAT ENDING. 👀 The little sneak peek at who the next book is about?! Y’ALL. Y’ALL ARE NOT READY.
So, if you haven’t jumped into the AltTillyVerse yet, I genuinely don’t know what you’re waiting for. Go. Read. These. Books.

[Emily Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another 5 ⭐️ read from S.J. Tilly and I’m not surprised. She is easily one of my favorite authors.

Vameer is the second book of the Bonded Souls series set in an alternate-Tillyverse.

I loved the idea of Vameer being woken from his accidental century-long slumber by tasting the blood of his mate. Rune’s story is similar to Nix where at 30, she learns she is a fated mate to a vampire. The closer they get, the more changes Rune experiences as she herself goes from human to vampire.

Her ultimate change comes from protecting Vameer from a magic-laced dagger aiming straight to his heart. This is a wonderful rendition of self-sacrifice in the name of love.

We got to know a little more about the Druids and Shifters of this world, and it seems the next book will focus on Orion, the alpha of the shifters.

S.J. Tilly is wonderful at giving details of each character at a good pace - finding out what you need to about them at the exact moment it’s needed.

Revenge, love, and fated mates - what more could you ask for?

The series will continue in 2028 - I wonder what S.J. Tilly has up her sleeve in the meantime.

[Krysten MA · Rating 5 out of 5]

“People really need to stop shooting at me.” I laughed so hard at this line I was coughing. We are back in SJ Tilly’s new supernatural world and all I can say is LFG. While Volik set up everything incredibly well, Vameer got to take a slightly different turn. I think we can all identify when Vameer means to close his eyes for only a month and then wakes up 103 years later alerted to the fact that his make has been found. The mate in question, Rune, finds herself in his cave the minute she turns 30. She shakes it off as a dream but get the shock of her life when her beautiful vampire shows up in her apartment. SJ’s perfect comedy really got to play in this book. Rune was saying what any of us were thinking. Watching Vameer adjust to modern life and discover things like the internet? Hysterical. These two really had to battle but let me say their love story is so good. It’s deep and emotionally complex but also so freaking hot. These mates are not shy about not being able to keep their hands off each other which I loved. It makes you root for them more than normal. I adored this book and I’m so excited for whatever SJ has next.

[Mary Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you thought Volik was good... you will love Vameer!!!

You re-enter what Tilly calls her alternate Tilly-verse and all the things that go bump in the night are very real and living among us.

This entry drops you back into the story that was left off in Volik... Rune has just turned 30, she finds herself in a cave with a sleeping Vameer that he was planning to "rest" in, and she wakes him with a drop of her blood. She then finds herself back in her apartment thinking she was hallucinating and Vameer looking for his newly discovered mate.

We journey as both start to see the changes of their mating, learning about their new normal, and the explosion of passion when they finally come face to face! (Its pretty steamy too!!!)

The story continues, they rejoin with Volik and Nix, as well as others, but its not paradise... an enemy lurks in the shadows. They face many challenges, but the passion between the two remains constant.

The vampire brothers have found their happily ever afters, but there is more stories to tell and you can see quickly who will be our next hero will be, and you can't help but be exicted for what is to come next!

[Clair Conlon · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
5/5 ⭐️

Rune is just trying to open her birthday present when she accidentally cuts her finger. Suddenly she finds herself standing on the edge of a mountain in the rain. She follows the unexplainable pull towards the cave where she finds a man asleep in the cave. A single drop of her blood drips to his mouth and wakes him instantly.

Vameer was just going to rest for a few days…maybe a week or so. But when he wakes up to a woman standing above him then vanishing the next moment, he knows something is different. Vameer slept for 103 years before being woken up by his mate with a single drop of her blood.

Queen Tilly has done it again!! I fell in love with Vameer just like I did with Volik! The growly protectiveness from Vameer will make you swoon 😍 can’t wait for the series to continue in 2028!!

Tropes:
⭐️ Overprotective vampire
⭐️ Interfector Mali
⭐️ Plus size heroine
⭐️ Fated mates
⭐️ Swords and sea creatures
⭐️ Accidentally slept for 100 years
⭐️ In the alternate Tilly verse

[Amilia Poling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know what other reaction I'm supposed to have after finishing this book than just screeching in joy and kicking my feet! This was incredible and I am so in love with this world!! Rune was a great character, and getting to see her grow and bloom into herself was a truly beautiful journey! Her strength in the insanity that thrown at her was truly incredible to watch! And Vameer was so amazing to watch as he realized when he woke up and what he needed to do in order to protect his mate and his family! He was just incredible to watch as he literally fought for their happiness and brought the world of Alts together! And getting so much more of the other side characters was a blast and a half, and I couldn't get enough of each and every one of them!! Overall this book was truly an incredible read and fully cements my love of this alternate Tilly Verse!! 5 stars; 3.25 chili peppers

Tropes:
- Paranormal Romance
- Touch Them and D!e
- Mate Bonds
- Meddling Friends
- Size Difference
- Vampires, and Shifters, and Druids, Oh My!

[Rachael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vameer & Rune

We are back and we are bigger than ever, hellllooo Oversized Vampire who is utterly obsessed with his woman, need i say more!

The connection and love between these two fated mates was oh so swoonworthy.

The story starts exactly where we left off in Volik, where Vameer is woken from a very long sleep, and he starts the search for Rune. Definitely read Volik before this one and the ease at which SJ catapults us back into this universe makes for such an effortless read.

The side characters and different people's POVs make this so highly entertaining!

Its got everything from spice to suspense and moments that will have you laughing out loud. A thoroughly enjoyable read!

- Overprotective vampire
- Accidentally slept 100 years
- Plus size heroine
- Injector malicious
- Fated mates
- Swords and sea creatures
- Alternate tilly verse

4.75⭐️ 2.5🌶

Bonus Points for the teaser for the next book, how am I meant to wait til 2028, I am so down bad for Orion already and I need them asap!

Thankyou to S.J Tilly and The Smuthood for the opportunity to read this one early 🫶🏻

[Jazymine Doherty · Rating 5 out of 5]

VAMEER OMG!! I miss yours and Rune’s story already!! 😭🥺

VAMEER is everything I imagined when I read his story!! And I’m obsessed with Rune! I loved her parent’s reaction when they met VAMEER and saw Runes change! It was great! 🤣

I LOVED his nicknames for him! I think my favorite was my little human! So cute!! 🥰


Beautiful story!! I loved the little twist with the sea creatures!! Beautiful addition! There’s just one thing I have to say about reading an SJ story NO NOTES!! Never any notes!! Okay maybe that was a little more than one word but it’s okay!


Another thing I have to say is that SJ writing is always so amazing to the point of where I feel like I’m in the story with the characters. You’re just so engrossed in reading the story to the point of where it genuinely feels like a movie in your mind and that’s my favorite kind of writing it’s hard to do that! I can’t wait for the next book!! IM SO EXCITED FOR THE LITTLE SPOILER WE GOT FROM THE END!! Wholly cow I’m impatient I need it like YESTERDAY!! 😩💕💕

[AnnaRobyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Swoon🫦🫦
LMAO 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Tears 🥹🥹
Banter 😉😉😉😉

Vampire Fantasy / Fated Mates / Overprotective Bad Ass / HEA

Bonded Souls, Book Two - Vameer Vadas has been asleep for 103 years, not sure why his brief plan to rest took on such a long turn. Rune Destin has just turned thirty, cut her finger opening a gift from her parents, and the instant she puts her finger into her mouth, she is magically transported to a remote cave where she discovers the sleeping giant. A drop of her blood falls into his mouth just after he awakens… she disappears back to her home. Now he’s on the quest to find her and to reunite with his brother, Volik. New bad guys to discover, more magical creatures, and lots of fun discoveries for Vameer since he missed out on 103 years. I wasn’t expecting to laugh so much at this vampire, but I really enjoyed him and Rune together. Many thanks to S. J. Tilly and Kerissa Dinger for the advance copy.