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Of Bonds & Hexes Duet #1
The Bonds of Indigo: A Dark Paranormal Why-Choose Romance
Kayn Butcher — It’s been over four hundred years, and all it took was the mention of his name to bring every piece of our history rushing back. Lucifer, that godsdamn Incubus, is with his father in the Beyond. I didn’t chase after him the first time but I won’t make that mistake again. However, it’ll take more than a road trip across Everhaven to reach him. It seems I’ll need a Witch powerful enough to open the gates to the Beyond. And, of course, the only one capable of it is locked away for a crime even I can’t forgive. I’ll do anything to get him back. If crossing realms won’t stop me, then no slayer will. Amarah Holloway — They should have killed me seven years ago. But because they didn’t, everyone in that town died and I’ve been rotting in this prison ever since. Locked away like the monster they decided I was. Then that brute of a Vampire showed up. He thinks he did me a favor, but all he really did was expose me to something far worse. Something even he can’t protect me from. Lucifer — Don’t come for me, Kayn. Don’t make me lose you twice.
545 pages, Paperback
Published August 18, 2026
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July 30, 2026
I know when I jump into one of Mel’s books, it’s a guarantee five-star banger. I was gnawing at the bars of my enclosure for this book because you’re telling me I get to revisit one of my favorite worlds AND it’s going to be a why choose?!? SAY LESS.
There’s something about the way this woman writes that pulls me in immediately. The story gripped me from the very beginning. I already had a connection to Kayn from the Filthy duet, and I think she did such a fantastic job introducing his character because I was already in love with him. I could not wait for his story. Then you find out about Lucifer and how he just up and left, and you’re immediately desperate for answers.
So he breaks his little witch out of a high-security prison where she’s meant to spend the rest of her days, and they strike a deal: she’s going to help him get back the love of his life, and in return, he’s going to give her something 👀👀. Of course, he doesn’t expect to fall in love with her along the way.
I loved the way their relationship built from what started as more of a hate-to-love dynamic. The walls came down slowly, they started trusting each other, and when they began opening up, it absolutely melted my heart. These two together are incredible, and I loved the buildup with Kayn and Amarahs relationship so much because we already know there’s a love there for Lucifer. I was so curious to see how it was all going to blend together, and of course, it was seamless. Mel did such a fantastic job tying these three people together in a way that felt natural. Even though we’re only scratching the surface of their relationship, I cannot wait to see where it goes.
I was fully expecting to fall head over heels for Kayn, right? He’s a cocky, full-of-himself vampire who will take your head off first and ask questions later, and that’s exactly how I like my men. But what really surprised me was how much I fucking love Lucifer.
Okay, listen… he might’ve won me over with the piercings and the two 🍆, but I also just loved his effortless BDE. I wasn’t expecting him to give the energy that he did, if that makes sense, but he was dominating while still being kind. I loved him so much, and I cannot wait to get more of him.
And then we have Amarah, who is such a well-thought-out character. First of all, any witch will always do something for me. Actual goosebumps every time she uses her powers. Whatever I’m corny, I can’t help it. SUE ME I LOVE A WITCH BADDIE. But she’s carrying SO much, pain and trauma and secrets. She holds so much so close to her chest and it was so nice for her to be able to take her burdens off her shoulders and let these men help her carry them. I loved watching her open up. She truly deserves the world.
I also love when FMCs are determined, scrappy, and fucking tough as nails. She is selfless, and she doesn’t know her own worth, but she has two men who would fucking die for her. They’re going to remind her every single day how important she is and how loved she is, and I am HERE for it.
I also loved how each of them draws power from something different that feels so connected to who they are. Kayns is feeding, Lucifer’s pleasure and desire, while Amarahs comes from the Earth and feels like it feeds her soul. I loved how her bond with Vendra felt so intentional and thought out. It wasn’t just a source of power, it felt like a part of her. I loved the way the bonds allowed them to communicate and feel each other even when they weren’t together. That’s just a micro trope that I eat up every time, when they’re quite literally in each other’s heads.
I really need to touch on the world building in this duet. Obviously, the Filthy duet is one of my favorite series of all time, and it felt so good to be back in this world. I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to give anything away, but just know I had full-body chills toward the end of this book.
I was sitting at the pool reading, and I literally wanted to stand up and fucking clap if you know, you know. But the way this world expanded and the understanding of the gods, the beyond, the creatures, and just how everything works was so intriguing. The plot itself completely sucked me in. I love a paranormal fantasy world filled with creatures, gods, power dynamics, and high stakes, and this was giving me EVERYTHING.
I’m so picky when it comes to my why choose books, and this was done perfectly. Every time Amarah felt insecure or like she didn’t fit in, one of her men was there to reassure her. They are so obsessed with her, and that is exactly how I like them.
I also need to circle back to the spice because I don’t think you guys understand. The way they literally worship her and each other??? The chemistry is out of this fucking world.
But that brings me to the ending. The ending that punched me right in the fucking throat.
Listen, I know Mel, and I know how she loves a diabolical cliffhanger. I truly didn’t think it could get worse than All Your Bloody Lies, but let me just shut the fuck up right now because I was completely wrong.
My jaw was on the floor. I was screaming into the void, punching the air, saying to myself, “No fucking way.” The second this one moment happened, everything clicked into place, and I knew she was about to drag me through hell by my fucking hair.
This is going to be the most agonizing wait for a book release. I truly don’t know how I’m going to survive, but I literally cannot wait to get back to these characters because I feel like there is so much more story they have to give us.
Six stars. Standing fucking ovation. Round of applause. All of the praise.
This book was fucking insanely good. Addicting, emotional, hot as fuck. with a STRONG plot and characters you are going to fall so hard for. It was literally perfect. No notes.
🚨‼️
If you haven’t finished the book, please do not read any further because they’re just gonna be spoilers!!!
OMFG WHEN XERA KAI AND MISTER SHOWED UP I LITERALLY FUCKING CRIED FROM THAT VERY FIRST LINE. I can’t even explain to you how much those characters mean to me and having them in that scene together felt like the motherfucking avengers, all of them fighting side-by-side. That was one of the most iconic scenes and it will live rent free in my brain, it got me so amped and so hyped, it was fucking incredible one of my favorite parts of the entire book.
BUT ATLAS!!?? How dare you😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 I AM NOT OKAY. He was such a fantastic addition to the story and I can’t believe you just ripped him away from me. I’ll never forgive you.
There’s something about the way this woman writes that pulls me in immediately. The story gripped me from the very beginning. I already had a connection to Kayn from the Filthy duet, and I think she did such a fantastic job introducing his character because I was already in love with him. I could not wait for his story. Then you find out about Lucifer and how he just up and left, and you’re immediately desperate for answers.
So he breaks his little witch out of a high-security prison where she’s meant to spend the rest of her days, and they strike a deal: she’s going to help him get back the love of his life, and in return, he’s going to give her something 👀👀. Of course, he doesn’t expect to fall in love with her along the way.
I loved the way their relationship built from what started as more of a hate-to-love dynamic. The walls came down slowly, they started trusting each other, and when they began opening up, it absolutely melted my heart. These two together are incredible, and I loved the buildup with Kayn and Amarahs relationship so much because we already know there’s a love there for Lucifer. I was so curious to see how it was all going to blend together, and of course, it was seamless. Mel did such a fantastic job tying these three people together in a way that felt natural. Even though we’re only scratching the surface of their relationship, I cannot wait to see where it goes.
I was fully expecting to fall head over heels for Kayn, right? He’s a cocky, full-of-himself vampire who will take your head off first and ask questions later, and that’s exactly how I like my men. But what really surprised me was how much I fucking love Lucifer.
Okay, listen… he might’ve won me over with the piercings and the two 🍆, but I also just loved his effortless BDE. I wasn’t expecting him to give the energy that he did, if that makes sense, but he was dominating while still being kind. I loved him so much, and I cannot wait to get more of him.
And then we have Amarah, who is such a well-thought-out character. First of all, any witch will always do something for me. Actual goosebumps every time she uses her powers. Whatever I’m corny, I can’t help it. SUE ME I LOVE A WITCH BADDIE. But she’s carrying SO much, pain and trauma and secrets. She holds so much so close to her chest and it was so nice for her to be able to take her burdens off her shoulders and let these men help her carry them. I loved watching her open up. She truly deserves the world.
I also love when FMCs are determined, scrappy, and fucking tough as nails. She is selfless, and she doesn’t know her own worth, but she has two men who would fucking die for her. They’re going to remind her every single day how important she is and how loved she is, and I am HERE for it.
I also loved how each of them draws power from something different that feels so connected to who they are. Kayns is feeding, Lucifer’s pleasure and desire, while Amarahs comes from the Earth and feels like it feeds her soul. I loved how her bond with Vendra felt so intentional and thought out. It wasn’t just a source of power, it felt like a part of her. I loved the way the bonds allowed them to communicate and feel each other even when they weren’t together. That’s just a micro trope that I eat up every time, when they’re quite literally in each other’s heads.
I really need to touch on the world building in this duet. Obviously, the Filthy duet is one of my favorite series of all time, and it felt so good to be back in this world. I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to give anything away, but just know I had full-body chills toward the end of this book.
I was sitting at the pool reading, and I literally wanted to stand up and fucking clap if you know, you know. But the way this world expanded and the understanding of the gods, the beyond, the creatures, and just how everything works was so intriguing. The plot itself completely sucked me in. I love a paranormal fantasy world filled with creatures, gods, power dynamics, and high stakes, and this was giving me EVERYTHING.
I’m so picky when it comes to my why choose books, and this was done perfectly. Every time Amarah felt insecure or like she didn’t fit in, one of her men was there to reassure her. They are so obsessed with her, and that is exactly how I like them.
I also need to circle back to the spice because I don’t think you guys understand. The way they literally worship her and each other??? The chemistry is out of this fucking world.
But that brings me to the ending. The ending that punched me right in the fucking throat.
Listen, I know Mel, and I know how she loves a diabolical cliffhanger. I truly didn’t think it could get worse than All Your Bloody Lies, but let me just shut the fuck up right now because I was completely wrong.
My jaw was on the floor. I was screaming into the void, punching the air, saying to myself, “No fucking way.” The second this one moment happened, everything clicked into place, and I knew she was about to drag me through hell by my fucking hair.
This is going to be the most agonizing wait for a book release. I truly don’t know how I’m going to survive, but I literally cannot wait to get back to these characters because I feel like there is so much more story they have to give us.
Six stars. Standing fucking ovation. Round of applause. All of the praise.
This book was fucking insanely good. Addicting, emotional, hot as fuck. with a STRONG plot and characters you are going to fall so hard for. It was literally perfect. No notes.
🚨‼️
If you haven’t finished the book, please do not read any further because they’re just gonna be spoilers!!!
OMFG WHEN XERA KAI AND MISTER SHOWED UP I LITERALLY FUCKING CRIED FROM THAT VERY FIRST LINE. I can’t even explain to you how much those characters mean to me and having them in that scene together felt like the motherfucking avengers, all of them fighting side-by-side. That was one of the most iconic scenes and it will live rent free in my brain, it got me so amped and so hyped, it was fucking incredible one of my favorite parts of the entire book.
BUT ATLAS!!?? How dare you😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 I AM NOT OKAY. He was such a fantastic addition to the story and I can’t believe you just ripped him away from me. I’ll never forgive you.
August 18, 2026
4.5⭐️ Thank you so much to the author M. L. Burns for making me part of your ARC readers 🥹♥️
but also…. HOW COULD YOU?????????? 😭😭😭
How am I meant to wait a FULL YEAR for the second book??????
That ending was DIABOLICAL 😭💔
I will come back with a full review after I’ve slept off the sadness in my soul….
but also…. HOW COULD YOU?????????? 😭😭😭
How am I meant to wait a FULL YEAR for the second book??????
That ending was DIABOLICAL 😭💔
I will come back with a full review after I’ve slept off the sadness in my soul….
August 25, 2026
🖤💜 THE BONDS OF INDIGO — M.L. BURNS 💜🖤
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 6 STARS
Well. I’ve officially been emotionally held hostage by M.L. Burns. Because apparently returning to a beloved universe wasn’t enough. No.
She had to throw a witch, a vampire, an incubus, forbidden bonds, ancient secrets, gods, monsters, an absolutely feral amount of tension, and a cliffhanger designed to personally ruin my life into the mix.
And somehow… she made it PERFECT. From the second I started The Bonds of Indigo, I was completely fucking hooked. There’s something about stepping back into this universe that immediately feels familiar, but Mel somehow manages to make it feel bigger, darker, and infinitely more dangerous this time around.
And then we meet Amarah.
My poor, complicated, badass little witch. 🥹 She’s spent years locked away, carrying trauma, secrets, and a past she doesn’t fully understand—and yet somehow she remains incredibly strong. She’s stubborn, resourceful, fiercely independent, and absolutely refuses to make things easy for anyone.
Which obviously meant I loved her immediately. But watching her slowly realize that she doesn't have to carry everything alone? THAT got me. Because these men don't just want her. They SEE her.
And watching Amarah slowly let those walls crack while Kayn and Lucifer show her exactly how much she matters was one of my favorite parts of this entire book.
Now let’s discuss the men because…I have thoughts.
Kayn walked into this book with that terrifying vampire energy I was already expecting, and somehow M.L. Burns managed to make him even more addictive. He’s arrogant. Brutal. Possessive. Dangerous. Basically everything I want in a fictional man who should absolutely come with several warning labels. 🫠
And the way his relationship with Amarah develops?
Inject it directly into my veins. They don't instantly fall into some perfectly packaged romance. There’s distrust. Friction. Resistance. Slowly earned vulnerability. And when those walls finally start coming down?
OH.
That payoff was EVERYTHING.
But then…LUCIFER.
EXCUSE ME???
I went into this book fully prepared to worship Kayn and somehow this man came out of nowhere and stole an entire section of my heart. The confidence. The charm. The absolute audacity. The energy. The fact that he can be completely dominant while still having this tenderness underneath it all??? Sir, I did not consent to becoming emotionally attached to you.
And when these three finally start coming together? The chemistry is INSANE. This is exactly what I want from a why choose. Nothing feels rushed or forced. Their connections develop in their own ways, and each relationship brings something different to the dynamic.
And the way their bonds work??? OBSESSED.
Being able to sense each other. Feel each other. Communicate across impossible distances. Give me characters who are so deeply connected that they can practically exist inside each other's heads and I will eat that shit up EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
Then there’s the world-building.
MEL. WHAT DID YOU PUT IN THIS BOOK???
Because the further I got, the more questions I had—and somehow that made me want to read faster. The gods. The Beyond. The different creatures. The powers. The history. The rules behind everything. The way the mythology keeps unfolding and revealing that there is SO much more happening beneath the surface…
I was hooked. And if you’ve read the Filthy duet, there are moments that will have you staring at the page like:
WAIT. WAIT. WAIT.
There were several moments where I genuinely had to put my book down and process what I had just read. And one scene in particular???
I WAS GONE. The kind of scene that makes you want to stand up and applaud because suddenly all those little pieces you've been collecting finally start connecting.
And yes…
THE SPICE. 🥵
Because these three together? The tension is absolutely ridiculous. The obsession. The possessiveness. The worship. The chemistry.
I WAS NOT STRONG ENOUGH.
But honestly, what made this book work so damn well for me was that the romance never overshadowed the story. There is an actual PLOT here.
A BIG one.
There are mysteries to uncover, secrets hiding in every corner, characters whose motives aren't always what they seem, and a bigger story unfolding that I desperately need answers to. And then we get to THAT ENDING.
🙂
No.
Actually...SCREW THAT ENDING.
I should have known better. I have read M.L. Burns before.
I KNOW SHE'S EVIL TO HER READERS.
And yet I still trusted her. That was my first mistake. Because when THAT moment happened, my entire brain just stopped working. I went through the five stages of grief in approximately thirty seconds.
Denial: No.
Anger: Absolutely fucking not.
Bargaining: Mel, please.
Depression: I am unwell.
Acceptance: Fine. I guess I have to suffer until the next book.
And the worst part? The second it happened, EVERYTHING CLICKED. Which somehow made it approximately one thousand times more devastating.
And if you know…YOU KNOW.
🚨 SPOILER SECTION — DO NOT CONTINUE IF YOU HAVEN'T FINISHED 🚨
I need to scream about Xera, Kai, and Mister for a second. THE WAY I LOST MY SHIT. Those characters appearing in that moment??? I genuinely got emotional.
It felt like watching the ultimate crossover episode where every dangerous motherfucker you love suddenly shows up ready to throw hands. I could SEE the scene playing out in my head.
The energy?? UNMATCHED.
And then…ATLAS.
MEL? I HAVE QUESTIONS??? I HAVE COMPLAINTS!!! I HAVE A GRIEVANCE TO FILE WITH HR TEAM.
WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO ME??? 😭
I was genuinely attached to him, and the fact that he became such an important part of the story only to have my heart ripped out like that???
RUDE. Absolutely fucking rude.
But that is exactly what this book did so well. It made me care. About the characters. About their relationships. About the world. About the history. About what happens next.
And now I am supposed to just sit here and WAIT?? For an entire year???
I don't think so.
The Bonds of Indigo was everything I want in a dark paranormal romance: addictive characters, an immersive world, complicated relationships, ridiculous chemistry, emotional depth, high stakes, secrets, magic, and enough chaos to keep me completely glued to the page.
It was 600+ pages of me saying “ONE MORE CHAPTER” until suddenly it was an ungodly hour and I had destroyed my sleep schedule.
Standing ovation. Emotional damages owed. And possibly a support group required.
M.L. Burns, you absolutely fucking crushed this one.
Now if you'll excuse me, I'll be over here staring at the calendar and wondering how the hell I'm supposed to survive until the next book. Thank you Mel and Team for the ARC, this review are my own thoughts and opinions never paid for🖤💜
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 6 STARS
Well. I’ve officially been emotionally held hostage by M.L. Burns. Because apparently returning to a beloved universe wasn’t enough. No.
She had to throw a witch, a vampire, an incubus, forbidden bonds, ancient secrets, gods, monsters, an absolutely feral amount of tension, and a cliffhanger designed to personally ruin my life into the mix.
And somehow… she made it PERFECT. From the second I started The Bonds of Indigo, I was completely fucking hooked. There’s something about stepping back into this universe that immediately feels familiar, but Mel somehow manages to make it feel bigger, darker, and infinitely more dangerous this time around.
And then we meet Amarah.
My poor, complicated, badass little witch. 🥹 She’s spent years locked away, carrying trauma, secrets, and a past she doesn’t fully understand—and yet somehow she remains incredibly strong. She’s stubborn, resourceful, fiercely independent, and absolutely refuses to make things easy for anyone.
Which obviously meant I loved her immediately. But watching her slowly realize that she doesn't have to carry everything alone? THAT got me. Because these men don't just want her. They SEE her.
And watching Amarah slowly let those walls crack while Kayn and Lucifer show her exactly how much she matters was one of my favorite parts of this entire book.
Now let’s discuss the men because…I have thoughts.
Kayn walked into this book with that terrifying vampire energy I was already expecting, and somehow M.L. Burns managed to make him even more addictive. He’s arrogant. Brutal. Possessive. Dangerous. Basically everything I want in a fictional man who should absolutely come with several warning labels. 🫠
And the way his relationship with Amarah develops?
Inject it directly into my veins. They don't instantly fall into some perfectly packaged romance. There’s distrust. Friction. Resistance. Slowly earned vulnerability. And when those walls finally start coming down?
OH.
That payoff was EVERYTHING.
But then…LUCIFER.
EXCUSE ME???
I went into this book fully prepared to worship Kayn and somehow this man came out of nowhere and stole an entire section of my heart. The confidence. The charm. The absolute audacity. The energy. The fact that he can be completely dominant while still having this tenderness underneath it all??? Sir, I did not consent to becoming emotionally attached to you.
And when these three finally start coming together? The chemistry is INSANE. This is exactly what I want from a why choose. Nothing feels rushed or forced. Their connections develop in their own ways, and each relationship brings something different to the dynamic.
And the way their bonds work??? OBSESSED.
Being able to sense each other. Feel each other. Communicate across impossible distances. Give me characters who are so deeply connected that they can practically exist inside each other's heads and I will eat that shit up EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
Then there’s the world-building.
MEL. WHAT DID YOU PUT IN THIS BOOK???
Because the further I got, the more questions I had—and somehow that made me want to read faster. The gods. The Beyond. The different creatures. The powers. The history. The rules behind everything. The way the mythology keeps unfolding and revealing that there is SO much more happening beneath the surface…
I was hooked. And if you’ve read the Filthy duet, there are moments that will have you staring at the page like:
WAIT. WAIT. WAIT.
There were several moments where I genuinely had to put my book down and process what I had just read. And one scene in particular???
I WAS GONE. The kind of scene that makes you want to stand up and applaud because suddenly all those little pieces you've been collecting finally start connecting.
And yes…
THE SPICE. 🥵
Because these three together? The tension is absolutely ridiculous. The obsession. The possessiveness. The worship. The chemistry.
I WAS NOT STRONG ENOUGH.
But honestly, what made this book work so damn well for me was that the romance never overshadowed the story. There is an actual PLOT here.
A BIG one.
There are mysteries to uncover, secrets hiding in every corner, characters whose motives aren't always what they seem, and a bigger story unfolding that I desperately need answers to. And then we get to THAT ENDING.
🙂
No.
Actually...SCREW THAT ENDING.
I should have known better. I have read M.L. Burns before.
I KNOW SHE'S EVIL TO HER READERS.
And yet I still trusted her. That was my first mistake. Because when THAT moment happened, my entire brain just stopped working. I went through the five stages of grief in approximately thirty seconds.
Denial: No.
Anger: Absolutely fucking not.
Bargaining: Mel, please.
Depression: I am unwell.
Acceptance: Fine. I guess I have to suffer until the next book.
And the worst part? The second it happened, EVERYTHING CLICKED. Which somehow made it approximately one thousand times more devastating.
And if you know…YOU KNOW.
🚨 SPOILER SECTION — DO NOT CONTINUE IF YOU HAVEN'T FINISHED 🚨
I need to scream about Xera, Kai, and Mister for a second. THE WAY I LOST MY SHIT. Those characters appearing in that moment??? I genuinely got emotional.
It felt like watching the ultimate crossover episode where every dangerous motherfucker you love suddenly shows up ready to throw hands. I could SEE the scene playing out in my head.
The energy?? UNMATCHED.
And then…ATLAS.
MEL? I HAVE QUESTIONS??? I HAVE COMPLAINTS!!! I HAVE A GRIEVANCE TO FILE WITH HR TEAM.
WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO ME??? 😭
I was genuinely attached to him, and the fact that he became such an important part of the story only to have my heart ripped out like that???
RUDE. Absolutely fucking rude.
But that is exactly what this book did so well. It made me care. About the characters. About their relationships. About the world. About the history. About what happens next.
And now I am supposed to just sit here and WAIT?? For an entire year???
I don't think so.
The Bonds of Indigo was everything I want in a dark paranormal romance: addictive characters, an immersive world, complicated relationships, ridiculous chemistry, emotional depth, high stakes, secrets, magic, and enough chaos to keep me completely glued to the page.
It was 600+ pages of me saying “ONE MORE CHAPTER” until suddenly it was an ungodly hour and I had destroyed my sleep schedule.
Standing ovation. Emotional damages owed. And possibly a support group required.
M.L. Burns, you absolutely fucking crushed this one.
Now if you'll excuse me, I'll be over here staring at the calendar and wondering how the hell I'm supposed to survive until the next book. Thank you Mel and Team for the ARC, this review are my own thoughts and opinions never paid for🖤💜
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2026
I have been looking forward to this one, and it did not disappoint! This book was so much fun to read. The hilarious banter, gory fight scenes and the overall adventure just pulled me in. This IS a spinoff from the Filthy Duet, but you don't have to have read them (although I very much recommend those 2 books!) because the author does an amazing job of filling you in at the beginning. Which also works great if you are like me, and have a horrible memory and love a refresher.
Kayn is a vampire that has never quite gotten over his Demon ex-lover Lucifer, and once he finds out that he may be in a little trouble, he decides its time to find and confront him. But he needs a way to get to him, and that way is with the help of a certain kind of Witch. Amarah is a Witch that's been locked away for a horrific crime, and feels her painful punishment every day of her existence. Even though Kayn doesn't want to work with this monster Witch, he has no choice and they are thrown together for quite the adventure.
These three together are just a perfect mix. Kayn is so over the top protective of these two and he FEELS so much for them. He's gruff and aggressive, and the sweetness & sassyness of both Lucifer and Amarah completely balance him out. These characters are just everything! Love them and love their dynamic. Absolutely cannot wait for the next book, because the ending for this one is insane!
MMF Urban Fantasy
Vamp x Demon x Witch
Cocky Vamp Oozes Charm,
But FEELS so much Love
Hurt / Comfort
Insane Chemistry
They Are Mine,
Touch Them and Die!
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Kayn is a vampire that has never quite gotten over his Demon ex-lover Lucifer, and once he finds out that he may be in a little trouble, he decides its time to find and confront him. But he needs a way to get to him, and that way is with the help of a certain kind of Witch. Amarah is a Witch that's been locked away for a horrific crime, and feels her painful punishment every day of her existence. Even though Kayn doesn't want to work with this monster Witch, he has no choice and they are thrown together for quite the adventure.
These three together are just a perfect mix. Kayn is so over the top protective of these two and he FEELS so much for them. He's gruff and aggressive, and the sweetness & sassyness of both Lucifer and Amarah completely balance him out. These characters are just everything! Love them and love their dynamic. Absolutely cannot wait for the next book, because the ending for this one is insane!
MMF Urban Fantasy
Vamp x Demon x Witch
Cocky Vamp Oozes Charm,
But FEELS so much Love
Hurt / Comfort
Insane Chemistry
They Are Mine,
Touch Them and Die!
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
August 19, 2026
4⭐️ That ending was absolutely criminal!!
This is a dark paranormal why choose romance (MMF) following a vampire who gets help from an imprisoned witch to hunt down a demon.
The plot in this book was so addicting!! The tension that builds up between Amarah and Kayn had me sweating. The dynamic between Kayn, Lucifer, and Amarah was everything! And my girl Amarah is not only a badass she was worshipped by these two like she deserves 👏🏼👏🏼
I went into this having not read the filthy duet and I still really enjoyed but I definitely think it would have been 5 stars if I read them before this. Unfortunately time was not on my side and just had to jump into this one. With that being said I still understood everything and at least had an idea of some of the other characters from TikTok.
Will definitely be going back and reading her other books because of the cameos and appearances of the other characters.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy!
This is a dark paranormal why choose romance (MMF) following a vampire who gets help from an imprisoned witch to hunt down a demon.
The plot in this book was so addicting!! The tension that builds up between Amarah and Kayn had me sweating. The dynamic between Kayn, Lucifer, and Amarah was everything! And my girl Amarah is not only a badass she was worshipped by these two like she deserves 👏🏼👏🏼
I went into this having not read the filthy duet and I still really enjoyed but I definitely think it would have been 5 stars if I read them before this. Unfortunately time was not on my side and just had to jump into this one. With that being said I still understood everything and at least had an idea of some of the other characters from TikTok.
Will definitely be going back and reading her other books because of the cameos and appearances of the other characters.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy!
August 19, 2026
4.5⭐️
I am officially in love with this author’s writing. This book is a thick one and I was locked in for every second. The world, the plot, the characters, and their relationships are all so well done!
We have a vampire who is determined to track down the incubus who left him hundreds of years ago and there’s only one witch who can help him. Too bad she’s locked up in prison for an unthinkable crime.
Amarah is a QUEEN and I am obsessed with her! She deserves only the very best and I have big feelings about this cliffhanger but I have all the faith that book two will deliver.
Kayn is the kind of protective/possessive MMC that I will always swoon over. And I’m sorry, I’ll always be DOWN for a little spicy vampire feeding.
We get the least amount of time with Lucifer but I’m so excited for more. Did I mention the incubus has two 🍆 ? Yep.
I love the way the MMF dynamic was established here. I feel each individual connection so strongly and I love that we got time with each couple on their own. It feels balanced and I love them together!
I think you can definitely get away with reading this without reading the first duet (I did, and still had a great time) but you will no doubt enjoy it even more if you know more about the world and the characters that make cameos in this one.
Paranormal/fantasy romance
Book one in a duet
MMF
Bonded mates with telepathic communication
Witch x Vampire X Incubus
Roadtrip
Pierced & tattooed 🍆
Double 🍆 (the dude literally has two)
Animal familiars
Tortured FMC
I am officially in love with this author’s writing. This book is a thick one and I was locked in for every second. The world, the plot, the characters, and their relationships are all so well done!
We have a vampire who is determined to track down the incubus who left him hundreds of years ago and there’s only one witch who can help him. Too bad she’s locked up in prison for an unthinkable crime.
Amarah is a QUEEN and I am obsessed with her! She deserves only the very best and I have big feelings about this cliffhanger but I have all the faith that book two will deliver.
Kayn is the kind of protective/possessive MMC that I will always swoon over. And I’m sorry, I’ll always be DOWN for a little spicy vampire feeding.
We get the least amount of time with Lucifer but I’m so excited for more. Did I mention the incubus has two 🍆 ? Yep.
I love the way the MMF dynamic was established here. I feel each individual connection so strongly and I love that we got time with each couple on their own. It feels balanced and I love them together!
I think you can definitely get away with reading this without reading the first duet (I did, and still had a great time) but you will no doubt enjoy it even more if you know more about the world and the characters that make cameos in this one.
Paranormal/fantasy romance
Book one in a duet
MMF
Bonded mates with telepathic communication
Witch x Vampire X Incubus
Roadtrip
Pierced & tattooed 🍆
Double 🍆 (the dude literally has two)
Animal familiars
Tortured FMC
August 12, 2026
"My heart- it fucking beats for this man."
5☆
Now I'm not someone who usually reads a why choose or enjoys them but... it really was a matter of how they're written because WOW WOW WOW, the bonds of indigo really solidified my love the MMF trope and it was truly done to perfection.
I have been looking forward to this book ever since M.L Burns announced it and it lived up to every single expectation. This was so so bingeable and I literally woke up thinking about it and just got to reading 😭. The plot of this book was so compelling. It felt so whimsical yet so action packed. It gave me the feelings I felt when I first got into reading which is literally a high I chase all the time.
All three of our MCs were written with so so much depth and emotional layering. Amarah, my sweet girl, my heart hurts for her. The horrific things she has been through and yet she still has so much empathy and how soft she is, made me want to hug her. The moment she was hinted that she could have a chance of being outside, her reaction to that and the way that entire scene was written literally made me sob. Kayn, yeah a 7 foot vampire??! Sign me tf up. The way he is so protective over Amarah and Lucifer was EVERYTHING to me. The way he believed Amarah as soon as she told him the truth and cared for her was so perfect. Lucifer was so unique in his own way. The way he stood up for Amarah and defended her but also respected her boundaries was so heart warming to me. His love for Kayn and the way he's soft and you still get sides of him willing to burn the world for Amarah and Kayn was done so well. Every single character had their own personality yet they all complimented each other so well when they came together.
The way their relationship blossomed felt so natural. I think that's what I struggle with in a why choose, a character is added suddenly and it feels unecessary to the story, but every MC in this book felt like a vital part of the story. The romance between them all was so wholesome and the spice was 🤭🤭. Everyone felt so included and I was rooting for them all, not once did I feel like someone was being left out. The found family forming was so so cute, and I'm so intrigued by Xera and Kai, I will be picking their book up immediately. I don't know how I'm expected to wait A YEAR for the next book after that ending??!.... I would do anything to for it now because my jaw is literally on the floor after that last page.
Thank you so so much ML Burns for this eARC💜💜💜 I had the most amazing time being in this world.
5☆
Now I'm not someone who usually reads a why choose or enjoys them but... it really was a matter of how they're written because WOW WOW WOW, the bonds of indigo really solidified my love the MMF trope and it was truly done to perfection.
I have been looking forward to this book ever since M.L Burns announced it and it lived up to every single expectation. This was so so bingeable and I literally woke up thinking about it and just got to reading 😭. The plot of this book was so compelling. It felt so whimsical yet so action packed. It gave me the feelings I felt when I first got into reading which is literally a high I chase all the time.
All three of our MCs were written with so so much depth and emotional layering. Amarah, my sweet girl, my heart hurts for her. The horrific things she has been through and yet she still has so much empathy and how soft she is, made me want to hug her. The moment she was hinted that she could have a chance of being outside, her reaction to that and the way that entire scene was written literally made me sob. Kayn, yeah a 7 foot vampire??! Sign me tf up. The way he is so protective over Amarah and Lucifer was EVERYTHING to me. The way he believed Amarah as soon as she told him the truth and cared for her was so perfect. Lucifer was so unique in his own way. The way he stood up for Amarah and defended her but also respected her boundaries was so heart warming to me. His love for Kayn and the way he's soft and you still get sides of him willing to burn the world for Amarah and Kayn was done so well. Every single character had their own personality yet they all complimented each other so well when they came together.
The way their relationship blossomed felt so natural. I think that's what I struggle with in a why choose, a character is added suddenly and it feels unecessary to the story, but every MC in this book felt like a vital part of the story. The romance between them all was so wholesome and the spice was 🤭🤭. Everyone felt so included and I was rooting for them all, not once did I feel like someone was being left out. The found family forming was so so cute, and I'm so intrigued by Xera and Kai, I will be picking their book up immediately. I don't know how I'm expected to wait A YEAR for the next book after that ending??!.... I would do anything to for it now because my jaw is literally on the floor after that last page.
Thank you so so much ML Burns for this eARC💜💜💜 I had the most amazing time being in this world.
August 9, 2026
If you are new to why choose and love a dark paranormal romance, I highly recommend starting with an M. L. Burns why choose romance.
One thing I always look for in any romance is emotional depth, character growth, and trust between the characters. You get all of this and more with this one.
The Bonds Of Indigo starts with Kayn locating a witch who can help him open up a portal to the Beyond to track down his long lost lover Lucifer who left him abruptly one night. Four hundred years later, Kayn found a way to track down Lucifer using a very powerful witch who has been locked away for something she may or may not have actually done.
M. L. Burns writes incredible MMCs always but I found myself deeply connecting with Amarah in this. Kayn and Amarah form a bond that allows Amarah to feel his intentions and read his thoughts. It helps them build trust as they work together and since Amarah has a dark past, she needs that trust to feel safe. To be a woman who has been abused and learn to feel safe again with someone is so special and I love how M. L. Burns wrote this.
I love having Kayn as the connecting piece to help her feel safe with people again. They do not want to have feelings for each other, but their love for one another is inevitable. It had me kicking my feet watching them try to rationalize their feelings the entire time as they fought it.
The “f*ck it” moment will have you howling!!!
These characters work so seamlessly well together and M. L. Burns did an incredible job writing this in a way that makes sense for each character.
If you have read her other books, expect delightful surprises along the way!
Please note: you do not need to read the Filthy Duet to understand The Bonds Of Indigo, but there are spoilers in The Bonds Of Indigo if you choose not to read All Your Bloody Lies first. I personally recommend you read the Filthy Duet first before reading The Bonds Of Indigo, but you can absolutely just read The Bonds Of Indigo and still have an amazing time.
I’ll be patiently waiting for book two to come out after such a diabolical ending!
Tropes:
💜 Dark Paranormal Why Choose
💜 Witch x Vampire x Demon
💜 Hate-to-Love
💜 Forced Proximity
💜 They Feed Off Each Other
💜 Touch Her & Die
💜 Possessive & Jealous MMC
💜 He Falls First & Harder
One thing I always look for in any romance is emotional depth, character growth, and trust between the characters. You get all of this and more with this one.
The Bonds Of Indigo starts with Kayn locating a witch who can help him open up a portal to the Beyond to track down his long lost lover Lucifer who left him abruptly one night. Four hundred years later, Kayn found a way to track down Lucifer using a very powerful witch who has been locked away for something she may or may not have actually done.
M. L. Burns writes incredible MMCs always but I found myself deeply connecting with Amarah in this. Kayn and Amarah form a bond that allows Amarah to feel his intentions and read his thoughts. It helps them build trust as they work together and since Amarah has a dark past, she needs that trust to feel safe. To be a woman who has been abused and learn to feel safe again with someone is so special and I love how M. L. Burns wrote this.
I love having Kayn as the connecting piece to help her feel safe with people again. They do not want to have feelings for each other, but their love for one another is inevitable. It had me kicking my feet watching them try to rationalize their feelings the entire time as they fought it.
The “f*ck it” moment will have you howling!!!
These characters work so seamlessly well together and M. L. Burns did an incredible job writing this in a way that makes sense for each character.
If you have read her other books, expect delightful surprises along the way!
Please note: you do not need to read the Filthy Duet to understand The Bonds Of Indigo, but there are spoilers in The Bonds Of Indigo if you choose not to read All Your Bloody Lies first. I personally recommend you read the Filthy Duet first before reading The Bonds Of Indigo, but you can absolutely just read The Bonds Of Indigo and still have an amazing time.
I’ll be patiently waiting for book two to come out after such a diabolical ending!
Tropes:
💜 Dark Paranormal Why Choose
💜 Witch x Vampire x Demon
💜 Hate-to-Love
💜 Forced Proximity
💜 They Feed Off Each Other
💜 Touch Her & Die
💜 Possessive & Jealous MMC
💜 He Falls First & Harder
August 18, 2026
I had both the absolute pleasure of receiving an ARC for The Bonds of Indigo (honestly ML Burns books are literary witchcraft), and the absolutely soul crushing experience of being left on a diabolical cliffhanger that had me weeping, slack jawed, and sick to my damn stomach. Billion stars, had the time of my life, thank you for the pain.
Ok so we pick up in the same universe as the Filthy Duet (also 6 star perfection, and gives helpful context leading into Bonds, but not strictly necessary if you haven’t read it). Big bad brute vampire Kayn realizes the love of his immortal life is in the Beyond, they have unfinished business, and Kayn promptly decides it’s time to get Luce back at any cost.
Enter Amarah, a powerful witch who is locked up in prison serving all the sentences for horrendous crimes. Amarah is so complex, layered, and a bit of an unreliable narrator because she’s so much more than she seems on the surface. What a magnificent female lead who’s soft yet fierce, tragic and compelling.
Kayn needs her help, but despite himself, grows to NEED her. When they finally have their fck it moment, I was shooketh. Kayn’s dominance is one of the greatest things I’ve ever read. I didn’t think I could love anyone as much as Kairhyse (filthy duet) but these vampire besties are seated at the head of the book boyfriend royalty table.
The last member of our trifecta is Lucifer, an incubus and the son of the ruler of the Beyond. Despite having left Kayn, he’s fighting in his own ways for those he loves. When Kayn, Amarah, and Lucifer finally collide, brace yourself for the combustion. ML Burns knows how to write chemistry that you can feel in your soul.
I want to say so much more, but you should experience this dark brutal paranormal romance whirlwind organically. This is a thick boi, over 600 pages long, and not a page was wasted. The first half of the book is spent generously getting to know Kayn and Amarah and the world around them. The second half of the book will have you both fist pumping in delight and checking your blood pressure from the anxiety. I’m DISTRAUGHT at having to wait a whole year for part 2, but honestly, glorious books like this one are worth it.
Thank you again to ML Burns for blessing my eyes and heart with this story 🫶🫶🫶
Ok so we pick up in the same universe as the Filthy Duet (also 6 star perfection, and gives helpful context leading into Bonds, but not strictly necessary if you haven’t read it). Big bad brute vampire Kayn realizes the love of his immortal life is in the Beyond, they have unfinished business, and Kayn promptly decides it’s time to get Luce back at any cost.
Enter Amarah, a powerful witch who is locked up in prison serving all the sentences for horrendous crimes. Amarah is so complex, layered, and a bit of an unreliable narrator because she’s so much more than she seems on the surface. What a magnificent female lead who’s soft yet fierce, tragic and compelling.
Kayn needs her help, but despite himself, grows to NEED her. When they finally have their fck it moment, I was shooketh. Kayn’s dominance is one of the greatest things I’ve ever read. I didn’t think I could love anyone as much as Kairhyse (filthy duet) but these vampire besties are seated at the head of the book boyfriend royalty table.
The last member of our trifecta is Lucifer, an incubus and the son of the ruler of the Beyond. Despite having left Kayn, he’s fighting in his own ways for those he loves. When Kayn, Amarah, and Lucifer finally collide, brace yourself for the combustion. ML Burns knows how to write chemistry that you can feel in your soul.
I want to say so much more, but you should experience this dark brutal paranormal romance whirlwind organically. This is a thick boi, over 600 pages long, and not a page was wasted. The first half of the book is spent generously getting to know Kayn and Amarah and the world around them. The second half of the book will have you both fist pumping in delight and checking your blood pressure from the anxiety. I’m DISTRAUGHT at having to wait a whole year for part 2, but honestly, glorious books like this one are worth it.
Thank you again to ML Burns for blessing my eyes and heart with this story 🫶🫶🫶
August 15, 2026
I got the opportunity to read this book and I freaking loved it! Nothing beats a why choose where the boyfriends are also boyfriends and have one of them be Lucifer with some interesting body parts 👀 I honestly loved everything about this book and can’t wait to read the second book and absolutely loved that Kai and Xera were in the story too 😍
August 19, 2026
I haven’t picked up a fantasy book in almost half a year, but this one caught my attention from the very beginning, and I flew through it.
Amara is a witch imprisoned and accused of killing countless souls. Kain, on the other hand, is searching for a witch just like her-one who can help him find his beloved Lucifer in the afterlife.
Amarah is one of those heroines you instantly love. She’s powerful, fierce, and has survived all kinds of torture without ever breaking. But despite her strength, she carries her scars, constantly reminding her of everything she’s been through.
Kayn is funny, self-obsessed, possessive, and absolutely giant, willing to do anything for the love of his life. And then there’s Lucifer-mysterious and intriguing. I definitely want to see more of him and learn more about him as a character.
Together, the three of them made this book incredibly hot and full of tension. There were so many moments I never saw coming, and more than once I was sitting there with my mouth open thinking, "WHAT?!" 😱
The world is really interesting, and I loved the magic surrounding all the different creatures. Overall, I really enjoyed the story and the atmosphere.
This is a book about a powerful love that has survived through many years. About passion, obsession, soulmates, war, death, pain, and an incredible number of sacrifices made for the person you love.
A huge thank you to M.L.Burns for approving me for an ARC and giving me the opportunity to read this book! 💜
Amara is a witch imprisoned and accused of killing countless souls. Kain, on the other hand, is searching for a witch just like her-one who can help him find his beloved Lucifer in the afterlife.
Amarah is one of those heroines you instantly love. She’s powerful, fierce, and has survived all kinds of torture without ever breaking. But despite her strength, she carries her scars, constantly reminding her of everything she’s been through.
Kayn is funny, self-obsessed, possessive, and absolutely giant, willing to do anything for the love of his life. And then there’s Lucifer-mysterious and intriguing. I definitely want to see more of him and learn more about him as a character.
Together, the three of them made this book incredibly hot and full of tension. There were so many moments I never saw coming, and more than once I was sitting there with my mouth open thinking, "WHAT?!" 😱
The world is really interesting, and I loved the magic surrounding all the different creatures. Overall, I really enjoyed the story and the atmosphere.
This is a book about a powerful love that has survived through many years. About passion, obsession, soulmates, war, death, pain, and an incredible number of sacrifices made for the person you love.
A huge thank you to M.L.Burns for approving me for an ARC and giving me the opportunity to read this book! 💜
Read
August 21, 2026My friend Alix told me I can't love an MMC just because he's a talker iykyk. But let's say he's almost 7ft tall a vampire, covered in tattoes and has a pierced dick? AND he shaves her legs! BRO IT'S 5 stars.
Kayn and Amarah's relationship was a roller coaster. He broke out of jail and she bonded them by accident. And when you thought it wouldn't get any crazier. Then Lucifer enters the chat with his shadows.
Mel dropped the biggest plottwist and cliffhanger ever. I will never forgive you for that btw. This book had the perfect ratio of slowburn, spice and plot. I was completely locked in & I can't wait for book 2.
Kayn and Amarah's relationship was a roller coaster. He broke out of jail and she bonded them by accident. And when you thought it wouldn't get any crazier. Then Lucifer enters the chat with his shadows.
Mel dropped the biggest plottwist and cliffhanger ever. I will never forgive you for that btw. This book had the perfect ratio of slowburn, spice and plot. I was completely locked in & I can't wait for book 2.
August 16, 2026
🇬🇧 I received an ARC from the author, but this review reflects my honest opinion.
MY HEART IS LITERALLY IN MY HANDS. What the fuck was that?!
After reading A Filthy Duet, I was already incredibly intrigued by Kayn, but getting him in his own book, meeting Amarah, and then adding Lucifer into the mix? Fucking amazing. Needless to say, this was an easy five stars and has probably earned itself a spot among my favorite reads of the year.
M.L. Burns is building an interconnected universe, and at this point I couldn’t be more intrigued by where the hell she’s taking us. But focusing on Bonds of Indigo itself: this is not an easy story to process, yet it’s almost impossible to put down. Kayn is incredible, even when he’s being a grumpy asshole, while Amarah is exactly the kind of FMC I love: complicated, layered, carrying an enormous history with her, and written with so much emotional depth. Then we have Lucifer, who is quite literally a demon, a succubus no less, but compared to Xera, whom we met in A Filthy Duet, there’s something much sweeter and almost more selfless about him. I wasn’t expecting that softness from him, but God, did I love it.
And the way these three have been connected from the very beginning?
EXCUSE ME?
I genuinely screamed at the plot twists. More than once. Every time I thought I understood what M.L. Burns was doing, another piece fell into place and completely changed how I saw everything that came before it.
What a fucking genius.
And it isn’t just the twists. The deeper we go, the more layers this universe seems to reveal. Even the relationships with the secondary characters feel increasingly important, and I have this growing suspicion that by the time we reach those final books, currently planned for 2030 according to the author’s Instagram, we’re heading toward some kind of paranormal Avengers: Endgame level showdown.
And you know what?
I’M HERE FOR IT.
Speaking of side characters, Atlas is OBVIOUSLY a favorite because apparently I don’t have enough fictional men occupying space in my brain already. And after that ending? My heart is in fucking knots.
Also… THAT BITCH MORGANA?
No.
Absolutely not.
I’m trusting Kayn and Lucifer to know my girl Amarah better than that because I refuse to accept anything else right now.
Special mention also needs to go to the familiars, who are incredible, and Vendra because…
I LOVE HER.
That’s it. That’s the review.
Well, almost.
For everything that is holy, READ THIS BOOK. And then please suffer with me until next year because I genuinely need company after that cliffhanger.
Also, read A Filthy Duet first. You don’t technically need to, but trust me, the experience is SO much better when you already understand some of the characters and connections within this universe.
And finally, PLEASE read the trigger warnings.
I’m serious.
Blood baths aside, Amarah goes through some incredibly disturbing and difficult things in this book. I consider myself pretty desensitized when it comes to dark fiction, and there were still moments that sent chills through my entire body.
Proceed with caution.
But if this is your kind of dark paranormal romance?
Holy fuck.
You’re in for a ride.
🇵🇹 Recebi um ARC da autora, mas esta review reflete apenas a minha opinião.
O MEU CORAÇÃO ESTÁ LITERALMENTE NAS MINHAS MÃOS. O que raio foi isto?!
Depois de ler A Filthy Duet, já estava extremamente intrigada com o Kayn, mas tê-lo finalmente no seu próprio livro, conhecer a Amarah e ainda juntar o Lucifer à equação? Fucking amazing. Escusado será dizer que foram cinco estrelas muito fáceis e que este livro provavelmente acabou de conquistar um lugar entre as minhas leituras favoritas do ano.
A M.L. Burns está a construir um universo interligado e, nesta altura, não podia estar mais intrigada com aquilo que nos espera. Mas falando especificamente de Bonds of Indigo: esta não é uma história fácil de processar, mas é praticamente impossível de largar. O Kayn é incrível, mesmo quando está a ser um grumpy asshole, enquanto a Amarah é exatamente o tipo de FMC que adoro: complexa, cheia de camadas, com uma história enorme às costas e uma profundidade emocional que me fez querer conhecê-la cada vez mais. Depois temos o Lucifer, que é literalmente um demónio, e um succubus ainda por cima, mas que, ao contrário da Xera que conhecemos em A Filthy Duet, tem qualquer coisa de muito mais doce e até altruísta. Não estava à espera dessa suavidade nele, mas MEU DEUS, adorei.
E a forma como a história destas três personagens está ligada desde o início?
DESCULPEM?
Eu berrei genuinamente com os plot twists. Mais do que uma vez. Sempre que achava que já tinha percebido o que a M.L. Burns estava a fazer, aparecia mais uma peça do puzzle que encaixava e mudava completamente a forma como eu via tudo o que tinha acontecido até ali.
Que génio do caraças.
E não são apenas os plot twists. Quanto mais avançamos, mais camadas este universo ganha. Até as relações com as personagens secundárias começam a parecer cada vez mais importantes, e eu tenho uma ligeira suspeita de que, quando chegarmos aos últimos livros, atualmente planeados para 2030 segundo o Instagram da autora, vamos acabar numa espécie de Avengers: Endgame paranormal.
E sabem que mais?
EU ESTOU AQUI PARA ISSO.
Falando das personagens secundárias, o Atlas é OBVIAMENTE um favorito, porque aparentemente ainda não tenho homens fictícios suficientes a ocupar espaço na minha cabeça. E depois daquele final? Tenho o coração completamente às voltas.
E já agora… AQUELA CABRA DA MORGANA?
Não.
Nem pensar.
Estou a confiar no Kayn e no Lucifer para conhecerem a minha Amarah melhor do que isso, porque neste momento recuso-me a aceitar outra possibilidade.
Menção especial também para os familiars, que são incríveis, e para a Vendra porque…
EU AMO-A.
Pronto. É a review.
Bem, quase.
Por tudo o que é mais sagrado, LEIAM ESTE LIVRO. E depois, por favor, sofram comigo até ao próximo ano porque eu preciso genuinamente de companhia depois daquele cliffhanger.
E leiam A Filthy Duet primeiro. Tecnicamente, não é necessário, mas acreditem em mim: a experiência fica MUITO melhor quando já conhecemos algumas destas personagens e percebemos certas ligações dentro deste universo.
E, finalmente, POR FAVOR, leiam os trigger warnings.
Estou a falar a sério.
Blood baths à parte, a Amarah passa por situações extremamente perturbadoras e difíceis ao longo deste livro. Considero-me bastante dessensibilizada no que toca a ficção dark e, mesmo assim, houve momentos que me deixaram completamente arrepiada.
Proceed with caution.
Mas se este é o vosso tipo de dark paranormal romance?
Holy fuck.
Preparem-se.
MY HEART IS LITERALLY IN MY HANDS. What the fuck was that?!
After reading A Filthy Duet, I was already incredibly intrigued by Kayn, but getting him in his own book, meeting Amarah, and then adding Lucifer into the mix? Fucking amazing. Needless to say, this was an easy five stars and has probably earned itself a spot among my favorite reads of the year.
M.L. Burns is building an interconnected universe, and at this point I couldn’t be more intrigued by where the hell she’s taking us. But focusing on Bonds of Indigo itself: this is not an easy story to process, yet it’s almost impossible to put down. Kayn is incredible, even when he’s being a grumpy asshole, while Amarah is exactly the kind of FMC I love: complicated, layered, carrying an enormous history with her, and written with so much emotional depth. Then we have Lucifer, who is quite literally a demon, a succubus no less, but compared to Xera, whom we met in A Filthy Duet, there’s something much sweeter and almost more selfless about him. I wasn’t expecting that softness from him, but God, did I love it.
And the way these three have been connected from the very beginning?
EXCUSE ME?
I genuinely screamed at the plot twists. More than once. Every time I thought I understood what M.L. Burns was doing, another piece fell into place and completely changed how I saw everything that came before it.
What a fucking genius.
And it isn’t just the twists. The deeper we go, the more layers this universe seems to reveal. Even the relationships with the secondary characters feel increasingly important, and I have this growing suspicion that by the time we reach those final books, currently planned for 2030 according to the author’s Instagram, we’re heading toward some kind of paranormal Avengers: Endgame level showdown.
And you know what?
I’M HERE FOR IT.
Speaking of side characters, Atlas is OBVIOUSLY a favorite because apparently I don’t have enough fictional men occupying space in my brain already. And after that ending? My heart is in fucking knots.
Also… THAT BITCH MORGANA?
No.
Absolutely not.
I’m trusting Kayn and Lucifer to know my girl Amarah better than that because I refuse to accept anything else right now.
Special mention also needs to go to the familiars, who are incredible, and Vendra because…
I LOVE HER.
That’s it. That’s the review.
Well, almost.
For everything that is holy, READ THIS BOOK. And then please suffer with me until next year because I genuinely need company after that cliffhanger.
Also, read A Filthy Duet first. You don’t technically need to, but trust me, the experience is SO much better when you already understand some of the characters and connections within this universe.
And finally, PLEASE read the trigger warnings.
I’m serious.
Blood baths aside, Amarah goes through some incredibly disturbing and difficult things in this book. I consider myself pretty desensitized when it comes to dark fiction, and there were still moments that sent chills through my entire body.
Proceed with caution.
But if this is your kind of dark paranormal romance?
Holy fuck.
You’re in for a ride.
🇵🇹 Recebi um ARC da autora, mas esta review reflete apenas a minha opinião.
O MEU CORAÇÃO ESTÁ LITERALMENTE NAS MINHAS MÃOS. O que raio foi isto?!
Depois de ler A Filthy Duet, já estava extremamente intrigada com o Kayn, mas tê-lo finalmente no seu próprio livro, conhecer a Amarah e ainda juntar o Lucifer à equação? Fucking amazing. Escusado será dizer que foram cinco estrelas muito fáceis e que este livro provavelmente acabou de conquistar um lugar entre as minhas leituras favoritas do ano.
A M.L. Burns está a construir um universo interligado e, nesta altura, não podia estar mais intrigada com aquilo que nos espera. Mas falando especificamente de Bonds of Indigo: esta não é uma história fácil de processar, mas é praticamente impossível de largar. O Kayn é incrível, mesmo quando está a ser um grumpy asshole, enquanto a Amarah é exatamente o tipo de FMC que adoro: complexa, cheia de camadas, com uma história enorme às costas e uma profundidade emocional que me fez querer conhecê-la cada vez mais. Depois temos o Lucifer, que é literalmente um demónio, e um succubus ainda por cima, mas que, ao contrário da Xera que conhecemos em A Filthy Duet, tem qualquer coisa de muito mais doce e até altruísta. Não estava à espera dessa suavidade nele, mas MEU DEUS, adorei.
E a forma como a história destas três personagens está ligada desde o início?
DESCULPEM?
Eu berrei genuinamente com os plot twists. Mais do que uma vez. Sempre que achava que já tinha percebido o que a M.L. Burns estava a fazer, aparecia mais uma peça do puzzle que encaixava e mudava completamente a forma como eu via tudo o que tinha acontecido até ali.
Que génio do caraças.
E não são apenas os plot twists. Quanto mais avançamos, mais camadas este universo ganha. Até as relações com as personagens secundárias começam a parecer cada vez mais importantes, e eu tenho uma ligeira suspeita de que, quando chegarmos aos últimos livros, atualmente planeados para 2030 segundo o Instagram da autora, vamos acabar numa espécie de Avengers: Endgame paranormal.
E sabem que mais?
EU ESTOU AQUI PARA ISSO.
Falando das personagens secundárias, o Atlas é OBVIAMENTE um favorito, porque aparentemente ainda não tenho homens fictícios suficientes a ocupar espaço na minha cabeça. E depois daquele final? Tenho o coração completamente às voltas.
E já agora… AQUELA CABRA DA MORGANA?
Não.
Nem pensar.
Estou a confiar no Kayn e no Lucifer para conhecerem a minha Amarah melhor do que isso, porque neste momento recuso-me a aceitar outra possibilidade.
Menção especial também para os familiars, que são incríveis, e para a Vendra porque…
EU AMO-A.
Pronto. É a review.
Bem, quase.
Por tudo o que é mais sagrado, LEIAM ESTE LIVRO. E depois, por favor, sofram comigo até ao próximo ano porque eu preciso genuinamente de companhia depois daquele cliffhanger.
E leiam A Filthy Duet primeiro. Tecnicamente, não é necessário, mas acreditem em mim: a experiência fica MUITO melhor quando já conhecemos algumas destas personagens e percebemos certas ligações dentro deste universo.
E, finalmente, POR FAVOR, leiam os trigger warnings.
Estou a falar a sério.
Blood baths à parte, a Amarah passa por situações extremamente perturbadoras e difíceis ao longo deste livro. Considero-me bastante dessensibilizada no que toca a ficção dark e, mesmo assim, houve momentos que me deixaram completamente arrepiada.
Proceed with caution.
Mas se este é o vosso tipo de dark paranormal romance?
Holy fuck.
Preparem-se.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2026
6 ⭐ read AMAZING! I couldn’t stop reading once I started, and from start to finish this was emotional, exciting, and a frickin joy ride! Kayn is an incredible character with muscles, tattoos, brawn, beardy-ness, dominance, and a BIG OLE HEART and I loved him so much that I wish we were neighbors and had tea every morning together. Lucifer was such a joy and I was so pleased he was kind and passionate about Kayn and Amarah and their growing threesome romance. And then Amarah, WOW, what a cool character who has been THROUGH IT and still comes out with the desire to protect and survive. ML Burns absolutely knows how to write a fierce and powerful female character! The entire enemies-to-lovers, ‘who did this to you’, and ‘f it’ parts were done PERFECTLY and everything these three feel for each other was so well earned and true and solid. The spice was STELLAR and HOT, in true ML Burns fashion, and that ending has me wanting to take a break and sit with my feelings. I loved every single thing about this story and being in this world again, and these characters and their plight are sitting deep in my heart and I can’t wait to see them again in 2027. ML Burns, you are truly a talent :)
Thank you to ML Burns for an advanced reader copy, this review is given voluntarily. GO READ EVERYTHING ML BURNS HAS WRITTEN…NOW!
Thank you to ML Burns for an advanced reader copy, this review is given voluntarily. GO READ EVERYTHING ML BURNS HAS WRITTEN…NOW!
August 17, 2026
5/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶️
Tropes & what to expect:
— MMF/why choose romance (witch x demon x vampire)
— Dark paranormal romance
— Hate to love
— Forced proximity
— Pierced/tattooed 🍆
— Double demon 🍆
— Touch him/her & you 💀
— One bed
— Who did this to you?
— Possessive/jealous MMC
— He falls first/harder
— "Fuck it"
Hey, so this was insanely good! I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN.
I definitely recommend you read M.L. Burns's other books prior to this one if you can as there are character crossovers (obsessed) and they are in the same universe. ;)
I knew I was going to love this book as soon as I met Amarah and Kayne. I continued falling more in love with this book as I continued getting to know these characters and as more characters were introduced i.e. Lucifer and Atlas.
The ending absolutely devastated me.. I will be unwell until I have book 2 in my hands. 😭
3/5 🌶️
Tropes & what to expect:
— MMF/why choose romance (witch x demon x vampire)
— Dark paranormal romance
— Hate to love
— Forced proximity
— Pierced/tattooed 🍆
— Double demon 🍆
— Touch him/her & you 💀
— One bed
— Who did this to you?
— Possessive/jealous MMC
— He falls first/harder
— "Fuck it"
Hey, so this was insanely good! I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN.
I definitely recommend you read M.L. Burns's other books prior to this one if you can as there are character crossovers (obsessed) and they are in the same universe. ;)
I knew I was going to love this book as soon as I met Amarah and Kayne. I continued falling more in love with this book as I continued getting to know these characters and as more characters were introduced i.e. Lucifer and Atlas.
The ending absolutely devastated me.. I will be unwell until I have book 2 in my hands. 😭
August 18, 2026
IF M.L. BURNS WRITES IT I’M READING IT. I love her and her brain so fucking much.
The Bonds of Indigo follows a witch with missing memories, a vampire who has waited 400 years for her, and a demon who gets pulled into all of their supernatural chaos. Witch, vampire, demon, why choose…like okayyyyyyyyyyyy say less sis!!!
The way M.L. writes and makes her characters come to life will never not amaze me. I was completely sucked into this world and obsessed with the dynamic between these three. The tension, the twists, the chaos UGHHHH I ate it all up.
Basically, M.L. Burns has written another book and I am once again here to tell you that I would read this woman’s grocery list lmao. LOVE YOU ML
The Bonds of Indigo follows a witch with missing memories, a vampire who has waited 400 years for her, and a demon who gets pulled into all of their supernatural chaos. Witch, vampire, demon, why choose…like okayyyyyyyyyyyy say less sis!!!
The way M.L. writes and makes her characters come to life will never not amaze me. I was completely sucked into this world and obsessed with the dynamic between these three. The tension, the twists, the chaos UGHHHH I ate it all up.
Basically, M.L. Burns has written another book and I am once again here to tell you that I would read this woman’s grocery list lmao. LOVE YOU ML
August 19, 2026
Arc review!
I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun read. I enjoyed the characters and the romance. I loved the spice and thought it was good and I loved the romantic dynamics that were at play in the book. I really liked how those came to fruition. I loved that this book included a very strong FMC. The main characters do a good job of balancing each other out and I really enjoyed the discussions between characters. I do think to understand the book better you should read her previous series in order to fully grasp everything.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and the characters!
I will say I’m sorry but I guessed that plot twist right away.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun read. I enjoyed the characters and the romance. I loved the spice and thought it was good and I loved the romantic dynamics that were at play in the book. I really liked how those came to fruition. I loved that this book included a very strong FMC. The main characters do a good job of balancing each other out and I really enjoyed the discussions between characters. I do think to understand the book better you should read her previous series in order to fully grasp everything.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and the characters!
I will say I’m sorry but I guessed that plot twist right away.
August 3, 2026
*ARC reader*
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
ML Burns has done it again - this made me literally giggle “is that a fucking TREE”, it had me heartbroken NUMEROUS times and the story!! As usual, impeccable writing by ML Burns and an outstanding start to this duology - just fuming I’ve gotta wait a whole year for book 2 after that ending?!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
ML Burns has done it again - this made me literally giggle “is that a fucking TREE”, it had me heartbroken NUMEROUS times and the story!! As usual, impeccable writing by ML Burns and an outstanding start to this duology - just fuming I’ve gotta wait a whole year for book 2 after that ending?!
August 26, 2026
˗ˏˋ 5 ★ ˎˊ˗
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸!
── .✦ ── .✦ ── .✦ ──.✦ ── .✦ ── .✦ ──.✦ ── .✦ ── .✦ ──.✦ ── .✦ ── .✦ ── .✦ ──
where to even start?
kayn -
a psycho possessive vampire who breaks our FMC out of prison to force her to find the love of his life? okay mr. can’t keep his mouth shut 🤭 i loved his character. he was funny, possessive, smug, strong willed, and so fully of himself and im so here for it. when he wants something, he’s going to find a way to get it and i love that for him. his growing love and curiosity for amarah gave me life. he knew he shouldn’t but couldn’t help himself. i’m not mad at it hahaha. overall, he was such a great character. i was so interested about him in the filthy duet and this story did him so much justice. he was better than i would ever have guessed. you’ll be obsessed with him.
amarah -
my sweet angel baby! i honestly loved her. at first i was lowkey giving her a side eye because um… you know. but i’ve grown to lover her personality. she was funny, whitty, and so sassy. she gave kayn a run for his money lol. also, how her nicknames for kayn when he was being a dick did it for me lol. she has been fighting the whole time until the very end to prove to herself that she deserves love and care from the boys, and when she finally got it .. it was just stripped away and i’m so heartbroken for her.
lucifer -
i don’t have much to say other than i knew i would love him. he’s possessive, protective, but very soft on the inside. he wants to be seen and heard by the ones he loves. sometimes we make bad choices because we feel like we aren’t being loved in the way we need, and i totally resonate with him. he wants loved deeply and wholeheartedly, no questions asked. and i love that both kayn and amarah did exactly that. he’s such a good fit into this trio. he provides the softness and comfort both amarah and kayn need, and it helps to keep each personal relationship with one another held together tightly.
overall, i loved this and i cannot wait until next year for book two. the plot to relationship building was balanced so well. i loved the look into each character’s life and how it shaped them into who and where they are now. mel did all of her characters justice with this book. also, propsss to the author for how well she intertwined xera and kai’s story into TBOI. it didn’t overpower but i now have so many more questions. the banter, the writing style, the characters and their depth, all of it was truly well done. they all balanced each other out, and them choosing each other time and time again regardless of what they lost in the process 🥹 they knew they’d find it in each other. SO PERFECT!!
let’s take some time to appreciate atlas. he was the kind of side character we need more of!! he added so much to this story without taking over. his ending literally tore my heart to shreds. he deserves so much better. you will love him!!
“i am a desperate man for you, amarah” YES YES YES.
═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════
𝙆𝙀𝙔 𝙏𝙍𝙊𝙋𝙀𝙎:
˖ 𝙑𝙖𝙢𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙓 𝙒𝙞𝙩𝙘𝙝 𝙓 𝘿𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙣
˖ 𝙃𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙏𝙤 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨
˖ 𝙒𝙝𝙮 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 (𝙈𝙈𝙁)
˖ 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙡
˖ 𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙢 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝘿𝙞𝙚
˖ 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙪𝙢𝙖 𝙍𝙚𝙥
˖ 𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙭𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙮
˖ 𝙁𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮
˖ 𝙈𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙂𝙧𝙚𝙮 𝙈𝘾'𝙨
˖ 𝙎𝙤 𝙈𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝘽𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧
˖ 𝙎𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝘽𝙪𝙧𝙣
˖ 𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸!
── .✦ ── .✦ ── .✦ ──.✦ ── .✦ ── .✦ ──.✦ ── .✦ ── .✦ ──.✦ ── .✦ ── .✦ ── .✦ ──
where to even start?
kayn -
a psycho possessive vampire who breaks our FMC out of prison to force her to find the love of his life? okay mr. can’t keep his mouth shut 🤭 i loved his character. he was funny, possessive, smug, strong willed, and so fully of himself and im so here for it. when he wants something, he’s going to find a way to get it and i love that for him. his growing love and curiosity for amarah gave me life. he knew he shouldn’t but couldn’t help himself. i’m not mad at it hahaha. overall, he was such a great character. i was so interested about him in the filthy duet and this story did him so much justice. he was better than i would ever have guessed. you’ll be obsessed with him.
amarah -
my sweet angel baby! i honestly loved her. at first i was lowkey giving her a side eye because um… you know. but i’ve grown to lover her personality. she was funny, whitty, and so sassy. she gave kayn a run for his money lol. also, how her nicknames for kayn when he was being a dick did it for me lol. she has been fighting the whole time until the very end to prove to herself that she deserves love and care from the boys, and when she finally got it .. it was just stripped away and i’m so heartbroken for her.
lucifer -
i don’t have much to say other than i knew i would love him. he’s possessive, protective, but very soft on the inside. he wants to be seen and heard by the ones he loves. sometimes we make bad choices because we feel like we aren’t being loved in the way we need, and i totally resonate with him. he wants loved deeply and wholeheartedly, no questions asked. and i love that both kayn and amarah did exactly that. he’s such a good fit into this trio. he provides the softness and comfort both amarah and kayn need, and it helps to keep each personal relationship with one another held together tightly.
overall, i loved this and i cannot wait until next year for book two. the plot to relationship building was balanced so well. i loved the look into each character’s life and how it shaped them into who and where they are now. mel did all of her characters justice with this book. also, propsss to the author for how well she intertwined xera and kai’s story into TBOI. it didn’t overpower but i now have so many more questions. the banter, the writing style, the characters and their depth, all of it was truly well done. they all balanced each other out, and them choosing each other time and time again regardless of what they lost in the process 🥹 they knew they’d find it in each other. SO PERFECT!!
let’s take some time to appreciate atlas. he was the kind of side character we need more of!! he added so much to this story without taking over. his ending literally tore my heart to shreds. he deserves so much better. you will love him!!
“i am a desperate man for you, amarah” YES YES YES.
═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════
𝙆𝙀𝙔 𝙏𝙍𝙊𝙋𝙀𝙎:
˖ 𝙑𝙖𝙢𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙓 𝙒𝙞𝙩𝙘𝙝 𝙓 𝘿𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙣
˖ 𝙃𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙏𝙤 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨
˖ 𝙒𝙝𝙮 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 (𝙈𝙈𝙁)
˖ 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙡
˖ 𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙢 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝘿𝙞𝙚
˖ 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙪𝙢𝙖 𝙍𝙚𝙥
˖ 𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙭𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙮
˖ 𝙁𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮
˖ 𝙈𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙂𝙧𝙚𝙮 𝙈𝘾'𝙨
˖ 𝙎𝙤 𝙈𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝘽𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧
˖ 𝙎𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝘽𝙪𝙧𝙣
˖ 𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚 🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 8, 2026
The second I heard this was a why choose dark paranormal romance I knew I was going to eat this up. On top of the fact that it is written by M.L. Burns, there was no doubt in my mind that I would be in for a good read.
The Bonds of Indigo was an exceptional first installment in the Of Bonds & Hexes Duet. The set up, world building, plot, and character development/dynamics were so good. It is very much a slow burn for the first half of the book but absolutely worth it. The hate to love and gradually building plot kept me fully invested.
Mel kept me on the edge of my seat waiting for more. More answers, more spice, more everything. I mean that in the best way. I loved getting to know Amarah, Kayn and Lucifer. Nailing a good why choose dynamic is hard to do especially when two of them have a past but this was done so well. Everything between the three of them felt so right and just perfect. I could not get enough.
I really felt for Amarah and love her. That girl has been through so much and I want her to be happy and feel beautiful and worthy. Kayn is this sexy vampire brute who is so possessive and down bad when he considers you his. I don't know how you can't love him. I have to say, Lucifer is my favorite if I had to pick. Something about him, I just love. The way he is so calm, sweet, and caring. I am really excited to get more of all three of them.
The plot picked up like crazy in the second half. I highly recommend reading the Filthy duet before this for the best experience although it isn't required. I am so glad I did. I mean I don't know why you wouldn't want to anyways, if you like this there is no way you won't like it too.
The spice was immaculate which I expected nothing else. I loved the magic system and all of the lore that goes into this world and these different creatures/paranormal beings.
That ending was so diabolical. I am truly unwell. I can't even fathom having to wait. I'm not even being dramatic. I am stressed OUT. I just know the second book is going to HIT and have me losing my mind.
Truly genius of an ending. When it all came together, I was screaming. I feel hurt and betrayed. Mel, I am sending you my therapy bill.
The Bonds of Indigo was an exceptional first installment in the Of Bonds & Hexes Duet. The set up, world building, plot, and character development/dynamics were so good. It is very much a slow burn for the first half of the book but absolutely worth it. The hate to love and gradually building plot kept me fully invested.
Mel kept me on the edge of my seat waiting for more. More answers, more spice, more everything. I mean that in the best way. I loved getting to know Amarah, Kayn and Lucifer. Nailing a good why choose dynamic is hard to do especially when two of them have a past but this was done so well. Everything between the three of them felt so right and just perfect. I could not get enough.
I really felt for Amarah and love her. That girl has been through so much and I want her to be happy and feel beautiful and worthy. Kayn is this sexy vampire brute who is so possessive and down bad when he considers you his. I don't know how you can't love him. I have to say, Lucifer is my favorite if I had to pick. Something about him, I just love. The way he is so calm, sweet, and caring. I am really excited to get more of all three of them.
The plot picked up like crazy in the second half. I highly recommend reading the Filthy duet before this for the best experience although it isn't required. I am so glad I did. I mean I don't know why you wouldn't want to anyways, if you like this there is no way you won't like it too.
The spice was immaculate which I expected nothing else. I loved the magic system and all of the lore that goes into this world and these different creatures/paranormal beings.
That ending was so diabolical. I am truly unwell. I can't even fathom having to wait. I'm not even being dramatic. I am stressed OUT. I just know the second book is going to HIT and have me losing my mind.
Truly genius of an ending. When it all came together, I was screaming. I feel hurt and betrayed. Mel, I am sending you my therapy bill.
August 22, 2026
This is a 6⭐️ read!!
OMFG!! This book was absolutely phenomenal! The Filthy Duet was six stars for me, and I don’t know if this beats it, but it comes DAMN close. This is why I will always love you, @ml_burns, you write incredible freaking stories. The emotions this book put me through? I don’t have words. I literally just finished it, I’m still in shock, and I’ll probably be crying in about five minutes. This story is going to stick with me until the next book comes out.
If you want a story filled with vampires, witches, demons, and other paranormal creatures, plus action, trauma, love, and why choose (because why pick just ONE boyfriend?), then buckle up. Get ready to be shocked and cry at the same time. You NEED to pick this up.
The story follows our MMC Kayn, who is on a mission to find the man he’s in love with. Along the way, he finds a Yldarwright witch, Amarah, to help him. The emotional rollercoaster these two took me on, the tension, the banter, the YEARNING, but also their personal journeys through trauma, guilt & grief, was so touching.
We get to learn more about Kayn (which I absolutely DEVOURED), and we still get the ruthless, crazy, sexy, domineering vampire we love! Amarah holds so much guilt and trauma that she keeps her walls up, but once Kayn breaks them down? A loving, caring, witty witch who doesn’t back down. I love their growth in this.
And the plot? WILD. I won’t give it away, but the journey to find the man Kayn loves unravels a whole OTHER journey, tied to all of them, but stemming from Amarah’s story. I was NOT ready. That ending had me SHOOKETH, I’m speechless and the tears are coming! I’m just gonna have to relive all the spicy scenes (especially the ones with ALL of them 🥵) to keep from crying into the night. But for real, I’m gonna go cry in a hole trying to process this!
If you haven’t already, you NEED to pick up The Bonds of Indigo, and if you haven’t read The Filthy Duet, go grab that one too! What’s the last book that WRECKED you like this? Tell me below! 👇
Thank you @ml_burns for gifting me an ARC in return for an honest review!!
OMFG!! This book was absolutely phenomenal! The Filthy Duet was six stars for me, and I don’t know if this beats it, but it comes DAMN close. This is why I will always love you, @ml_burns, you write incredible freaking stories. The emotions this book put me through? I don’t have words. I literally just finished it, I’m still in shock, and I’ll probably be crying in about five minutes. This story is going to stick with me until the next book comes out.
If you want a story filled with vampires, witches, demons, and other paranormal creatures, plus action, trauma, love, and why choose (because why pick just ONE boyfriend?), then buckle up. Get ready to be shocked and cry at the same time. You NEED to pick this up.
The story follows our MMC Kayn, who is on a mission to find the man he’s in love with. Along the way, he finds a Yldarwright witch, Amarah, to help him. The emotional rollercoaster these two took me on, the tension, the banter, the YEARNING, but also their personal journeys through trauma, guilt & grief, was so touching.
We get to learn more about Kayn (which I absolutely DEVOURED), and we still get the ruthless, crazy, sexy, domineering vampire we love! Amarah holds so much guilt and trauma that she keeps her walls up, but once Kayn breaks them down? A loving, caring, witty witch who doesn’t back down. I love their growth in this.
And the plot? WILD. I won’t give it away, but the journey to find the man Kayn loves unravels a whole OTHER journey, tied to all of them, but stemming from Amarah’s story. I was NOT ready. That ending had me SHOOKETH, I’m speechless and the tears are coming! I’m just gonna have to relive all the spicy scenes (especially the ones with ALL of them 🥵) to keep from crying into the night. But for real, I’m gonna go cry in a hole trying to process this!
If you haven’t already, you NEED to pick up The Bonds of Indigo, and if you haven’t read The Filthy Duet, go grab that one too! What’s the last book that WRECKED you like this? Tell me below! 👇
Thank you @ml_burns for gifting me an ARC in return for an honest review!!
August 15, 2026
Thank you to the author for this advanced copy. ML has become one of my favorite authors and I already knew I was going to love this one!
I read the Filthy Duet so I knew this was going to be heavy on the plot, spice, trauma, healing, and character development. I loved all 3 MCs, Kayn and Amarah especially. Amarah has a lot of trauma to work through and Kayn was so patient with her in helping her heal. Amarah is a tough badass FMC despite the trauma she’s experienced. Kayn is a big softie wrapped in a big muscular tattooed exterior. When all 3 MCs finally got together, the chemistry was explosive and sweet.
The plot was interesting, but there was so much going on, I was confused at times and couldn’t figure out what was happening. I felt like I either missed bits and pieces or maybe certain things weren’t fully explained.
This duet does tie in with the Filthy Duet, but you don’t necessarily need to read that one unless you want more context and want to meet Xera and Kai prior to reading this book (and why wouldn’t you want to? They’re only one of my absolute favorite couples ever). I loved seeing Xera and Kai toward the end of this book and I’m happy to see that they’ll be in the next book too.
The ending was actually shocking. I knew something big was going to happen but I wasn’t prepared for what actually happened. ML always surprises me with her twists and incredible storytelling. I’m excited for book 2 to find out what happens with our little demon, witch, vampire trio.
I read the Filthy Duet so I knew this was going to be heavy on the plot, spice, trauma, healing, and character development. I loved all 3 MCs, Kayn and Amarah especially. Amarah has a lot of trauma to work through and Kayn was so patient with her in helping her heal. Amarah is a tough badass FMC despite the trauma she’s experienced. Kayn is a big softie wrapped in a big muscular tattooed exterior. When all 3 MCs finally got together, the chemistry was explosive and sweet.
The plot was interesting, but there was so much going on, I was confused at times and couldn’t figure out what was happening. I felt like I either missed bits and pieces or maybe certain things weren’t fully explained.
This duet does tie in with the Filthy Duet, but you don’t necessarily need to read that one unless you want more context and want to meet Xera and Kai prior to reading this book (and why wouldn’t you want to? They’re only one of my absolute favorite couples ever). I loved seeing Xera and Kai toward the end of this book and I’m happy to see that they’ll be in the next book too.
The ending was actually shocking. I knew something big was going to happen but I wasn’t prepared for what actually happened. ML always surprises me with her twists and incredible storytelling. I’m excited for book 2 to find out what happens with our little demon, witch, vampire trio.
August 14, 2026
ARC. 4.5 ⭐
Im sorry what sort of crack was in this book please?!
When I say I was hooked from the start.
That drag you sometimes get in a book until like 80%? There was NONE of that I haven’t even read the filthy duet YET to know of the world & Kayn but ya gal was HOOKED immediately.
I needed for them to find Luce like NEEDED. I refused to put the book down in case the reconciliation happened in the next chapter!!! The spice between the two? Delicious.
Then when the why choose happened? It was done so incredibly well. CHEFS KISS.
Now, the last 20/30% is where the “world building” or the thought provoking stuff actually happened in this. Which is different, but I kinda liked it. I liked the magic with the mirror. I loved the twist with the mirror at the end. I hated Lucifers dad but there’s always a hated dad in the book riiiiiiight?!
I always say I’m not a fan of paranormal but I only read them from authors I love & I always love them!!
The double 🍆 excuse me WHAT? The MMF spice was SPICIN. I’m sleep deprived from this book and I absolutely loved it. Super grateful to have received an ARC. Immediately pre ordering. And will be reading the filthy duet in the very near future. Dollface xoxoxo
Im sorry what sort of crack was in this book please?!
When I say I was hooked from the start.
That drag you sometimes get in a book until like 80%? There was NONE of that I haven’t even read the filthy duet YET to know of the world & Kayn but ya gal was HOOKED immediately.
I needed for them to find Luce like NEEDED. I refused to put the book down in case the reconciliation happened in the next chapter!!! The spice between the two? Delicious.
Then when the why choose happened? It was done so incredibly well. CHEFS KISS.
Now, the last 20/30% is where the “world building” or the thought provoking stuff actually happened in this. Which is different, but I kinda liked it. I liked the magic with the mirror. I loved the twist with the mirror at the end. I hated Lucifers dad but there’s always a hated dad in the book riiiiiiight?!
I always say I’m not a fan of paranormal but I only read them from authors I love & I always love them!!
The double 🍆 excuse me WHAT? The MMF spice was SPICIN. I’m sleep deprived from this book and I absolutely loved it. Super grateful to have received an ARC. Immediately pre ordering. And will be reading the filthy duet in the very near future. Dollface xoxoxo
August 20, 2026
Review of advance copy received from the author
No, no, no, noo!!
What was that ending?!
I need book 2 NOW! I need to know everything is going to be okay! 😭
But let's go back to the start.
Please read all the TWs ⚠️ This world is not for everyone, but if it is for you, my first recommendation would be to start with the Filthy Duet. It isn't mandatory, but if you end up liking this book (and you will!), you won't want the original duet spoiled when you go back for more!
The book starts with the world recap - thank you! I've never loved a book opening more 🙌🏻
Kayne is a strong, obsessive, and overprotective vampire who, deep down, is a total teddy bear.
Amarah is a sweet girl who has suffered the unthinkable, but she finds her spark again thanks to these two men.
And Lucifer - that little deviant! His love has no boundaries, no limits.
The spice between these three is through the roof! 🌡️🥵🔥 That is all I'm saying!!
Why do they have to pay for Belial and Vaeloris ambition? I just want a happy ending and to get rid of those two!
My favourite chapter? 52! I went from sad, almost crying, and anxious, to biting my nails, to cheering and clapping when I saw my old friends again!
No, no, no, noo!!
What was that ending?!
I need book 2 NOW! I need to know everything is going to be okay! 😭
But let's go back to the start.
Please read all the TWs ⚠️ This world is not for everyone, but if it is for you, my first recommendation would be to start with the Filthy Duet. It isn't mandatory, but if you end up liking this book (and you will!), you won't want the original duet spoiled when you go back for more!
The book starts with the world recap - thank you! I've never loved a book opening more 🙌🏻
Kayne is a strong, obsessive, and overprotective vampire who, deep down, is a total teddy bear.
Amarah is a sweet girl who has suffered the unthinkable, but she finds her spark again thanks to these two men.
And Lucifer - that little deviant! His love has no boundaries, no limits.
The spice between these three is through the roof! 🌡️🥵🔥 That is all I'm saying!!
Why do they have to pay for Belial and Vaeloris ambition? I just want a happy ending and to get rid of those two!
My favourite chapter? 52! I went from sad, almost crying, and anxious, to biting my nails, to cheering and clapping when I saw my old friends again!
August 20, 2026
Thank you so much ML Burns & for the opportunity to receive this arc in exchange for my honest opinion .
The Bonds of indigo is the first book in the of bonds and hexes duet and it was absolutely incredible .
It’s unlike anything I’ve read before , I absolutely loved the plot . I loved all the characters equally . Amarah was such a beautiful , strong , resilient fmc and it broke my heart to see what she endured . Loved how she felt everything from the earth and her bond with Vendra was done perfectly . Kayn is your broody , possessive , gets what he wants vampires who gradually becomes a simp for Amarah . Atlas was a stand up friend . And Lucifer ? Need I say more .
I love the whole world and the adventure to try to get into the beyond . The story was absolutely beautiful and had me gripping on to anything in sight .
Watching the relationship between Kayn and Amarah grow was so beautiful to read . To watch their walls break down and begin to trust each other . Watching the sparks grow + their bond experience . And when the tension snaps — that first shower scene 🥵 .
The dynamic between Amarah , Kayn and Lucifer was so beautiful . While thinking I was going to like Lucifer a little less than Kayn , my mind was definitely changed .
I feel everyone should simply go into this blind because it’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced and cannot wait for the second book . I’m also immediately diving into the filthy duet asap because although I didn’t read it prior to this — this was the spark needed to dive right in !
The Bonds of indigo is the first book in the of bonds and hexes duet and it was absolutely incredible .
It’s unlike anything I’ve read before , I absolutely loved the plot . I loved all the characters equally . Amarah was such a beautiful , strong , resilient fmc and it broke my heart to see what she endured . Loved how she felt everything from the earth and her bond with Vendra was done perfectly . Kayn is your broody , possessive , gets what he wants vampires who gradually becomes a simp for Amarah . Atlas was a stand up friend . And Lucifer ? Need I say more .
I love the whole world and the adventure to try to get into the beyond . The story was absolutely beautiful and had me gripping on to anything in sight .
Watching the relationship between Kayn and Amarah grow was so beautiful to read . To watch their walls break down and begin to trust each other . Watching the sparks grow + their bond experience . And when the tension snaps — that first shower scene 🥵 .
The dynamic between Amarah , Kayn and Lucifer was so beautiful . While thinking I was going to like Lucifer a little less than Kayn , my mind was definitely changed .
I feel everyone should simply go into this blind because it’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced and cannot wait for the second book . I’m also immediately diving into the filthy duet asap because although I didn’t read it prior to this — this was the spark needed to dive right in !
September 2, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐!
I need book two like RIGHT NOWWW.
This is technically a spinoff of the Filthy Duet, BUTyou don't need to have read those first, ML drops enough context early on so that you're not really lost. (Would I still tell you to read them anyway? Obvi.)
Kayn is our vampire MMC, and he is STILL not over his demon ex, Lucifer. When word gets back to him that he might be in danger, his idea is "track down my ex and deal with it myself," which uhmmm sir, that is not a good plan, that is screaming ‘I want you back’. But he can't get to Lucifer without this witch's help, and the witch he's stuck with is Amarah (imprisoned for some f*ck up stuff). So they’re basically stuck together and hate it lol.
I’m not a fan of throuples but why am I like starting to completely see the hype???
Kayn is all grumpy vibes and overprotector on the outside but he FEELS things on a deep level once you crack him open, & Lucifer & Amarah are softer but also unbothered. I loved this trio together. It just worked.
Thar last chapter tho? Baby 💥 🤯 … so I'm feral for the sequel.
Tropes: forced proximity, throuple
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I need book two like RIGHT NOWWW.
This is technically a spinoff of the Filthy Duet, BUTyou don't need to have read those first, ML drops enough context early on so that you're not really lost. (Would I still tell you to read them anyway? Obvi.)
Kayn is our vampire MMC, and he is STILL not over his demon ex, Lucifer. When word gets back to him that he might be in danger, his idea is "track down my ex and deal with it myself," which uhmmm sir, that is not a good plan, that is screaming ‘I want you back’. But he can't get to Lucifer without this witch's help, and the witch he's stuck with is Amarah (imprisoned for some f*ck up stuff). So they’re basically stuck together and hate it lol.
I’m not a fan of throuples but why am I like starting to completely see the hype???
Kayn is all grumpy vibes and overprotector on the outside but he FEELS things on a deep level once you crack him open, & Lucifer & Amarah are softer but also unbothered. I loved this trio together. It just worked.
Thar last chapter tho? Baby 💥 🤯 … so I'm feral for the sequel.
Tropes: forced proximity, throuple
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
August 18, 2026
**ARC Review**
Rating: 4.25
If I could split this book in two, and have a rating for the world and plot (4.75), and then a rating for the romance (4), I feel it would be more realistic!!
Overall, this was an insanely fun read. I really enjoyed it. I think I’m actually really excited to dive more into this world and explore the other series to know the rest of the characters more in-depth!
Now, character development, phenomenal. One of the side characters (Atlas) might have been my favorite person in the book. Just loved his entire persona, and almost wish I could have more of him.
I really liked the plot, and how everything was developing and the ending of this book had my jaw on the floor!!!!
Romance wise, it’s heated…. I think for a bit I was struggling to juggle the emotions, and I almost loved the angst in the first half of the book more than the actual romance lol. But it was done well, and having to develop the dynamic I’m sure was really fun.
I’m very eager to engage more with this world, and see where this is going to go!!
Rating: 4.25
If I could split this book in two, and have a rating for the world and plot (4.75), and then a rating for the romance (4), I feel it would be more realistic!!
Overall, this was an insanely fun read. I really enjoyed it. I think I’m actually really excited to dive more into this world and explore the other series to know the rest of the characters more in-depth!
Now, character development, phenomenal. One of the side characters (Atlas) might have been my favorite person in the book. Just loved his entire persona, and almost wish I could have more of him.
I really liked the plot, and how everything was developing and the ending of this book had my jaw on the floor!!!!
Romance wise, it’s heated…. I think for a bit I was struggling to juggle the emotions, and I almost loved the angst in the first half of the book more than the actual romance lol. But it was done well, and having to develop the dynamic I’m sure was really fun.
I’m very eager to engage more with this world, and see where this is going to go!!
August 23, 2026
EPIC. I honestly can’t think of a better word to describe this book, because anything else would be an understatement.
Filthy Duet is one of my all-time favorite series, and The Bonds of Indigo is an amazing continuation.
I already knew that everything M. L. Burns writes is a masterpiece. That doesn’t mean I wasn’t shocked and picking my jaw up off the floor more than once.
An incredible story full of twists, pain, humor... It had everything. Including a heartbreaking cliffhanger, so consider yourself warned.
I fell in love with Amarah from the very beginning. A strong FMC with an amazing story. Plus, she’s a witch!
Kayn? If you’ve already read Filthy Duet, you probably loved him before even picking up this book, just like I did. That still didn’t stop me from falling for him even harder.
To avoid spoilers, I’m not going to name any more characters. But let me tell you, this is one wild ride, and you won’t want it to end.
A unique, emotional story that completely stole my heart. And now all I can do is wait a whole year until the Of Bonds & Hexes Duet is complete.
Filthy Duet is one of my all-time favorite series, and The Bonds of Indigo is an amazing continuation.
I already knew that everything M. L. Burns writes is a masterpiece. That doesn’t mean I wasn’t shocked and picking my jaw up off the floor more than once.
An incredible story full of twists, pain, humor... It had everything. Including a heartbreaking cliffhanger, so consider yourself warned.
I fell in love with Amarah from the very beginning. A strong FMC with an amazing story. Plus, she’s a witch!
Kayn? If you’ve already read Filthy Duet, you probably loved him before even picking up this book, just like I did. That still didn’t stop me from falling for him even harder.
To avoid spoilers, I’m not going to name any more characters. But let me tell you, this is one wild ride, and you won’t want it to end.
A unique, emotional story that completely stole my heart. And now all I can do is wait a whole year until the Of Bonds & Hexes Duet is complete.
September 7, 2026
Had been looking forward to this one, especially after the Filthy Duet and overall I had a good time with it! The banter, gory fight scenes and the adventure kept the story entertaining and moving at a good pace 🙂↕️
I really enjoyed them individually and there were a lot of moments where their dynamic worked for me. Kayn is gruff, aggressive and ridiculously protective, while Lucifer and Amarah bring more sweetness to the group. At the same time, I’m still a little unsure about the connection between the three of them. I could see what the relationship was supposed to become, but I’m not sure I fully felt that emotional or romantic connection yet. Some parts of it seemed to develop a little too easily for me, especially considering their history and circumstances.
Still, I enjoyed the characters, the darker humor and the overall adventure enough that I definitely want to see where their relationship goes from here. And after that ending, I’m very curious about what the next book is going to bring!
“I think... this is what heartbreak feels like.
/…/ Like a piece of me is gone, leaving me hopeless and shattered. Expected to put myself back together when it feels impossible because half the pieces are missing.”
Thank you to M.L. Burns for providing me with an ARC 🖤
All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed them individually and there were a lot of moments where their dynamic worked for me. Kayn is gruff, aggressive and ridiculously protective, while Lucifer and Amarah bring more sweetness to the group. At the same time, I’m still a little unsure about the connection between the three of them. I could see what the relationship was supposed to become, but I’m not sure I fully felt that emotional or romantic connection yet. Some parts of it seemed to develop a little too easily for me, especially considering their history and circumstances.
Still, I enjoyed the characters, the darker humor and the overall adventure enough that I definitely want to see where their relationship goes from here. And after that ending, I’m very curious about what the next book is going to bring!
“I think... this is what heartbreak feels like.
/…/ Like a piece of me is gone, leaving me hopeless and shattered. Expected to put myself back together when it feels impossible because half the pieces are missing.”
Thank you to M.L. Burns for providing me with an ARC 🖤
All opinions are my own.
August 26, 2026
✨Arc Review✨
Woow this was such a fun book, it was incredibly entertaining. Amarah’s story was so heartbreaking to see, she went through so much that she didn’t deserve that I was genuinely sad for her but I loved her because besides all that, she’s was so strong and fierce.
I absolutely loved Kayn, he was amazing and the way the slow burn was slow burning, I was eating it up. I also loved Lucifer and their dynamic all together but I think the connection between him and Amarah was too insta love compared to her and Kayn, I wish it was more like them because it would’ve been more natural.
Now let’s talk about the plot? What was that???? I’m speechless with everything. I was on the ball of my feet almost all the time because I was being surprised left and right. And that ending? JAW DROPPING, ABSOLUTELY CHOCKED. It was definitely worth reading and I can’t wait for the next book because I need answers ASAP.
Woow this was such a fun book, it was incredibly entertaining. Amarah’s story was so heartbreaking to see, she went through so much that she didn’t deserve that I was genuinely sad for her but I loved her because besides all that, she’s was so strong and fierce.
I absolutely loved Kayn, he was amazing and the way the slow burn was slow burning, I was eating it up. I also loved Lucifer and their dynamic all together but I think the connection between him and Amarah was too insta love compared to her and Kayn, I wish it was more like them because it would’ve been more natural.
Now let’s talk about the plot? What was that???? I’m speechless with everything. I was on the ball of my feet almost all the time because I was being surprised left and right. And that ending? JAW DROPPING, ABSOLUTELY CHOCKED. It was definitely worth reading and I can’t wait for the next book because I need answers ASAP.
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