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Lost and Bound
A run in with a mouse and a broken stair does the inexplicable; it changes my DNA. I’m forced to flee my home, leaving everything and everyone I’ve ever known behind. The alternative is being hunted down because these days you're either a pure-blooded human, or you’re the enemy.
I’ve barely started running, and I’m faced with a choice. It’s an easy decision, helping people is who I am, but it also starts a chain of events that has ever-lasting consequences.
I wake up in the infirmary at Thales, the largest and most prestigious mixed-species academy in Quin-state. With a mysterious benefactor sponsoring my attendance, I’m suddenly a student again.
I know nothing about the ‘others’, but I quickly learn the supernatural beings at Thales are as prejudiced and cruel as the government back home. At every turn, teachers and students remind me of my designation. I’m a Nom, a ‘divine placeholder’, the lowest of the lows. We’re dispensable, a means to an end while the strongest beings search for their Kleis.
A drop of blood was all it took to flip my entire existence upside down, imagine what’s going to happen when I figure out how to survive in their world.
The Tethered Series is an academy, paranormal, why-choose trilogy. Lost and Bound will end on a cliffhanger.
I’ve barely started running, and I’m faced with a choice. It’s an easy decision, helping people is who I am, but it also starts a chain of events that has ever-lasting consequences.
I wake up in the infirmary at Thales, the largest and most prestigious mixed-species academy in Quin-state. With a mysterious benefactor sponsoring my attendance, I’m suddenly a student again.
I know nothing about the ‘others’, but I quickly learn the supernatural beings at Thales are as prejudiced and cruel as the government back home. At every turn, teachers and students remind me of my designation. I’m a Nom, a ‘divine placeholder’, the lowest of the lows. We’re dispensable, a means to an end while the strongest beings search for their Kleis.
A drop of blood was all it took to flip my entire existence upside down, imagine what’s going to happen when I figure out how to survive in their world.
The Tethered Series is an academy, paranormal, why-choose trilogy. Lost and Bound will end on a cliffhanger.
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Published August 29, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 4, 2026
3.5 ⭐️/0 🌶️—This had potential. The bones were good and the characters were interesting but something was missing. Maybe it was that I felt like I was dropped into the middle of the world with very little world building. There was neither a show nor a tell for the background (and I was trying to figure out if I missed a prequel or if this was a spinoff of another series). The pacing was a bit off (too fast) and the characters didn’t get enough page time to really flesh out who they are. I’ll probably read the next one and decide then if I want to continue with the series.
September 5, 2026
i guess i am back in my why choose paranormal academy era.
when Lucy Scott Bryan announced they were writing a new paranormal series under a new pen name, i was sooo excited bc i love all her omegaverse books.
this was a very interesting story of supernaturals vs humans. the world that the author has built makes you wonder what all is really going on and who are the true villains and is everything actually as it seems.
i liked that our girl Maya isn’t a doormat fmc hiding away now that’s she’s thrown into this new supernatural world. she’s feisty and smart but doesn’t let what’s going on harden her too much and lose her compassion for others. she also has a raven familiar/sidekick who attacks people, which i loved.
you’re introduced to a lot of potential mates and let’s just say i hope they work for Maya and her affection once they figure their shit out. this is a sloooow burn and no spice at all in this book.
you’re left on a cliffhanger and a lot of unanswered questions. i cannot wait for the next book.
thank you L.S. Bryan for an ARC of 𝑳𝒐𝒔𝒕 & 𝑩𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
why choose, 1st person multi-POV but most POV from fmc
academy, magic, humans v supernaturals, mixed supernaturals, slow burn, bullying from mmcs & secondary characters, professor mmc, cliffhanger, 1st book in trilogy
when Lucy Scott Bryan announced they were writing a new paranormal series under a new pen name, i was sooo excited bc i love all her omegaverse books.
this was a very interesting story of supernaturals vs humans. the world that the author has built makes you wonder what all is really going on and who are the true villains and is everything actually as it seems.
i liked that our girl Maya isn’t a doormat fmc hiding away now that’s she’s thrown into this new supernatural world. she’s feisty and smart but doesn’t let what’s going on harden her too much and lose her compassion for others. she also has a raven familiar/sidekick who attacks people, which i loved.
you’re introduced to a lot of potential mates and let’s just say i hope they work for Maya and her affection once they figure their shit out. this is a sloooow burn and no spice at all in this book.
you’re left on a cliffhanger and a lot of unanswered questions. i cannot wait for the next book.
thank you L.S. Bryan for an ARC of 𝑳𝒐𝒔𝒕 & 𝑩𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
why choose, 1st person multi-POV but most POV from fmc
academy, magic, humans v supernaturals, mixed supernaturals, slow burn, bullying from mmcs & secondary characters, professor mmc, cliffhanger, 1st book in trilogy
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September 1, 2026🟢 This is a reverse harem 🟢
August 31, 2026
5 Stars
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Spice: 0/5
Multi POV (mostly FMC)
First Person
Why Choose (RH)
Magical Academy (college age)
Light Bully (from MMCs)
Moderate Bully (from secondaries)
Magical Awakening
FMC On The Run
Fated Mates
Student/Teacher
Slow Burn
Animal Sidekick
Ride or Die Bestie
Great World Building
Mental Health Rep
Maya, Arlan, Bael, Cane, Emrys
Lost and Bound is book one in The Tethered series. The books must be read in order for maximum enjoyment. This book ends on a significant cliffhanger.
Maya is an ordinary (but extraordinary) young woman until a simple accident changes her life forever. She unexpectedly discovers that she has magic in her blood. This might be an interesting discovery except in this world anyone with even a drop of magical blood is hunted and persecuted. Maya is forced to flee from the only home and people she has ever known eventually landing her at Thales Academy. She has to learn to navigate a whole new world, magical histories, and hierarchies.
The guys in this book—wolf shifter, demon, vampire, and spell caster—are extremely well written. Even though they spend almost the entirety of the book rejecting and denying Maya, they’re still captivating and fierce. I can’t wait to learn more about them and look forward to their epic grovel.
The world building in this story is flat out epic. Thales Academy is richly described. The magical community and its lore are extraordinary. Their lives have a very distinct set of rules and a defined class system. While Lost and Bound is a bully romance and deals with some dark themes, Maya’s kind and perseverant spirit shines through. She remains a fighter, determined to succeed, despite all the obstacles thrown in her path. This is a story driven heavily on plot and character development. The main characters, secondary characters, and a kiss-ass animal sidekick are highlights. An unputdownable romance.
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Spice: 0/5
Multi POV (mostly FMC)
First Person
Why Choose (RH)
Magical Academy (college age)
Light Bully (from MMCs)
Moderate Bully (from secondaries)
Magical Awakening
FMC On The Run
Fated Mates
Student/Teacher
Slow Burn
Animal Sidekick
Ride or Die Bestie
Great World Building
Mental Health Rep
Maya, Arlan, Bael, Cane, Emrys
Lost and Bound is book one in The Tethered series. The books must be read in order for maximum enjoyment. This book ends on a significant cliffhanger.
Maya is an ordinary (but extraordinary) young woman until a simple accident changes her life forever. She unexpectedly discovers that she has magic in her blood. This might be an interesting discovery except in this world anyone with even a drop of magical blood is hunted and persecuted. Maya is forced to flee from the only home and people she has ever known eventually landing her at Thales Academy. She has to learn to navigate a whole new world, magical histories, and hierarchies.
The guys in this book—wolf shifter, demon, vampire, and spell caster—are extremely well written. Even though they spend almost the entirety of the book rejecting and denying Maya, they’re still captivating and fierce. I can’t wait to learn more about them and look forward to their epic grovel.
The world building in this story is flat out epic. Thales Academy is richly described. The magical community and its lore are extraordinary. Their lives have a very distinct set of rules and a defined class system. While Lost and Bound is a bully romance and deals with some dark themes, Maya’s kind and perseverant spirit shines through. She remains a fighter, determined to succeed, despite all the obstacles thrown in her path. This is a story driven heavily on plot and character development. The main characters, secondary characters, and a kiss-ass animal sidekick are highlights. An unputdownable romance.
October 8, 2026
Some scenes felt like fillers and didn’t need as much descriptions (first 1/3 of the book). Maybe add more descriptions on how the world worked/background rather than readers be uninformed just like the FMC (Maya). Why do all the supernatural hate the Noms? What’s so special about the MMCs? Will there be more information on what a kleis is and how units work? What a happened to the angels in the beginning? What about the Legion or the Great War? I think what annoyed me about the storyline is how mean everyone is. It’s just too “high school” drama for supposedly older supernaturals. I also felt like there were a few time jumps or skips in some scenes (Noms having class online, Maya all of a sudden, moving without notice) and didn’t flow as well. No one was likeable in the book besides Rodderick (and the dining hall workers). Even Maya got a little annoying in some parts (why is she so nice to everyone, acts like she hates a person but easily gets over it then it happens to her again). No groveling is enough from the MMCs. One scene, they’re fine with Maya. The next, treating her like she is under their feet. Arlan took Maya’s blood when she was asleep like it was nothing (gross and disgusting in how she is treated by them). Hopefully, there’s more chapters in the next book in their viewpoints so readers get to read their emotions/scenes happening. A lot in this book, was Maya’s and it was just going to class, homework/detention, Orion, or dealing with everyone who dislikes her (classmates, professors). The main characters barely interacted with each other so there’s still no idea how that will work out to be. It’s still a good storyline but I’m not the biggest fan of any chapters yet. I need Maya to grow more powerful and actually have more confidence (besides finding out who she is/powers). That and making the men work for her love as so far, they all dislike her and see her as someone weak/not worth their time.
September 13, 2026
I’m not even mad that the first book is finished and now I desperately need the second.
You know why?
Because somewhere toward the end of the book, while reading on my Kindle app on my iPad, I realised there were simply not enough pages left to finalise the story. And instead of panicking about the cliffhanger, all I could think about was going back to the beginning and starting the book again… straight away.
I LOVE the world that has been built in this story, but the characters? Freaking brilliant.
I know I’ve read something special here. There is something so comforting about this book that I honestly can’t explain. I just have this feeling that it’s going to become one of those reads for me that I revisit again and again.
The characters have so much depth, and the situation that Maya, the FMC, finds herself in is SO intriguing. As the reader, we clearly don’t have all the pieces of the picture yet, and my mind has been spinning trying to paint a solid outline of what is actually going on.
There are just SO MANY possibilities. So many moving parts. So many little things that could mean something more.
And yes… I have approximately a million theories.
This story has completely gotten into my head. I am invested. I am obsessed. And I am genuinely so excited to reread it now that I have a better idea of what I’m looking for. I already know I’m going to notice things I missed the first time around.
This is a true masterpiece.
And thankfully, I’m not waiting around wondering whether I’ll continue the series because I have already preordered book two of the Tethered series, Undone by Fate.
It is preordered.
It is marked in my calendar.
I will NOT be missing this one.
Now excuse me while I go back to the beginning of Lost & Bound and start putting my theories together properly.
You know why?
Because somewhere toward the end of the book, while reading on my Kindle app on my iPad, I realised there were simply not enough pages left to finalise the story. And instead of panicking about the cliffhanger, all I could think about was going back to the beginning and starting the book again… straight away.
I LOVE the world that has been built in this story, but the characters? Freaking brilliant.
I know I’ve read something special here. There is something so comforting about this book that I honestly can’t explain. I just have this feeling that it’s going to become one of those reads for me that I revisit again and again.
The characters have so much depth, and the situation that Maya, the FMC, finds herself in is SO intriguing. As the reader, we clearly don’t have all the pieces of the picture yet, and my mind has been spinning trying to paint a solid outline of what is actually going on.
There are just SO MANY possibilities. So many moving parts. So many little things that could mean something more.
And yes… I have approximately a million theories.
This story has completely gotten into my head. I am invested. I am obsessed. And I am genuinely so excited to reread it now that I have a better idea of what I’m looking for. I already know I’m going to notice things I missed the first time around.
This is a true masterpiece.
And thankfully, I’m not waiting around wondering whether I’ll continue the series because I have already preordered book two of the Tethered series, Undone by Fate.
It is preordered.
It is marked in my calendar.
I will NOT be missing this one.
Now excuse me while I go back to the beginning of Lost & Bound and start putting my theories together properly.
August 30, 2026
This was a book that when I read it, I knew immediately it was one of the greats. I love it so much. Our FMC is kind but so strong, never once failing to stick up for herself without bringing other’s down.
Our MMCs on the other hand… well assuming they stay MMCs in the next book, they’ll certainly have a lot of explaining to do.
We start out with our main character, Maya. She’s living in the human world when she encounters a mouse, experiences a fall and discovers now that she is suddenly an OTHER. We have some world building before this and the whole book balances on the edge of keeping us and Maya in the dark about things, but also helping us learn as she does about this new world she’s found herself thrown into without explanation. We get a sense of so much more going on behind the scenes that Maya is aware of. She tries to ask questions, but as a nom, she is immediately dismissed and most of her questions go unanswered. Her best and only friend, Orion, is a breath of fresh air. Her familiar, Bugby is also a spitfire of a character and I loved his addition. I won’t talk about the guys individually because though they’re redeemable, I also want to give them a smack on the nose for being bad boys. This entire school could win awards for its bullying. Maya takes most of this in stride but also is a bit indignant about it, rightfully so.
And the cliffhanger! What a doozy! I immediately wanted to demand the next book, but this one was so good I know it will take time to keep up with this amazing story.
I would definitely suggest reading this book, I loved it so much. It was just perfection and such a departure from this author’s previous stories so I hope we get many more in the future!
I received an advance copy of this book in return for my honest review.
Our MMCs on the other hand… well assuming they stay MMCs in the next book, they’ll certainly have a lot of explaining to do.
We start out with our main character, Maya. She’s living in the human world when she encounters a mouse, experiences a fall and discovers now that she is suddenly an OTHER. We have some world building before this and the whole book balances on the edge of keeping us and Maya in the dark about things, but also helping us learn as she does about this new world she’s found herself thrown into without explanation. We get a sense of so much more going on behind the scenes that Maya is aware of. She tries to ask questions, but as a nom, she is immediately dismissed and most of her questions go unanswered. Her best and only friend, Orion, is a breath of fresh air. Her familiar, Bugby is also a spitfire of a character and I loved his addition. I won’t talk about the guys individually because though they’re redeemable, I also want to give them a smack on the nose for being bad boys. This entire school could win awards for its bullying. Maya takes most of this in stride but also is a bit indignant about it, rightfully so.
And the cliffhanger! What a doozy! I immediately wanted to demand the next book, but this one was so good I know it will take time to keep up with this amazing story.
I would definitely suggest reading this book, I loved it so much. It was just perfection and such a departure from this author’s previous stories so I hope we get many more in the future!
I received an advance copy of this book in return for my honest review.
September 27, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
This is the book to read if you’re looking for a true SLOW BURN reverse harem. I didn’t even know anything about our possible MMCs until over 100 pages into the book. However, they aren’t your typical MMCs either…they are so damn easy to hate right from the start. Any redeeming qualities that pop up are quickly shut down by their prejudice and snotty attitudes. Not to mention, they need to learn how to ask before taking or start getting bopped in the head. This is definitely a bully romance and anyone not interested in that should not read this book. With that being said, I cannot wait for the groveling to start. They have A LOT to make up for. Our FMC is adorable, but fierce at the same time. She struggles with her self-deprecating thoughts, but comes out on top each time. She knows what it’s like to hit the bottom and refuses to get there again. I love her attitude and determination to figure out the new world she was thrown into and the strange abilities popping up daily. I am ROOTING for her success and can’t wait to see everyone who pushed her down eat shit (literally and figuratively).
This world is very interesting and I do enjoy the amount of world building we are given. I did get confused with a few aspects of their world and hope it’s fleshed out a little more in book 2. We are left with many more questions than answers by the end of this book. Am I upset? Maybe a smidge, but I loved this book so much that I’m willing to put to ignore that tidbit and wait patiently for those answers when I read book 2. But that’s what cliffhangers are for, right?! To get my nosey ass to want more and more out of this amazing author!!
This is the book to read if you’re looking for a true SLOW BURN reverse harem. I didn’t even know anything about our possible MMCs until over 100 pages into the book. However, they aren’t your typical MMCs either…they are so damn easy to hate right from the start. Any redeeming qualities that pop up are quickly shut down by their prejudice and snotty attitudes. Not to mention, they need to learn how to ask before taking or start getting bopped in the head. This is definitely a bully romance and anyone not interested in that should not read this book. With that being said, I cannot wait for the groveling to start. They have A LOT to make up for. Our FMC is adorable, but fierce at the same time. She struggles with her self-deprecating thoughts, but comes out on top each time. She knows what it’s like to hit the bottom and refuses to get there again. I love her attitude and determination to figure out the new world she was thrown into and the strange abilities popping up daily. I am ROOTING for her success and can’t wait to see everyone who pushed her down eat shit (literally and figuratively).
This world is very interesting and I do enjoy the amount of world building we are given. I did get confused with a few aspects of their world and hope it’s fleshed out a little more in book 2. We are left with many more questions than answers by the end of this book. Am I upset? Maybe a smidge, but I loved this book so much that I’m willing to put to ignore that tidbit and wait patiently for those answers when I read book 2. But that’s what cliffhangers are for, right?! To get my nosey ass to want more and more out of this amazing author!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Give me more! 😍😍 Oh my gosh, I loved this! An awesome beginning to what I know is going to be an absolutely fantastic series. To say I'm excited to read book 2 is an understatement.
From the very beginning of the book I was quickly drawn in. It is definitely a plot driven story, but you can see the feelings thing build up happening between characters as the book progresses. Can't wait to see the chemistry kick in in the next book. The world building in this story is fantastic, having me totally immersed in the story. There's alot of written detail in the book with Maya learning about the world over the wall, so being that it was a well paced read, really helped in taking in all the that detail.
Maya is such a wonderful fmc. I can't wait to see how her character transforms throughout the series. She has a soft heart, with a strong, feisty spirit. Her mouth may or may not, get her into trouble at times.
During the entire read, I was trying to guess what is going to happen next. Guess the secrets. Guess what was around the corner. Guess what more makes Maya amazing. Who to damn trust! Then we get to the cliffhanger. Ahh the cliffhanger. That cliffhanger LS Bryan mentions?? OMG it's one that if I had someone next to me as I read it, I would have slapped them on the backed of their head yelling, 'WHAT THE FUCK'. OMG so cruel, but I fucking love cliffhangers so LS Bryan is forgiven.
From the very beginning of the book I was quickly drawn in. It is definitely a plot driven story, but you can see the feelings thing build up happening between characters as the book progresses. Can't wait to see the chemistry kick in in the next book. The world building in this story is fantastic, having me totally immersed in the story. There's alot of written detail in the book with Maya learning about the world over the wall, so being that it was a well paced read, really helped in taking in all the that detail.
Maya is such a wonderful fmc. I can't wait to see how her character transforms throughout the series. She has a soft heart, with a strong, feisty spirit. Her mouth may or may not, get her into trouble at times.
During the entire read, I was trying to guess what is going to happen next. Guess the secrets. Guess what was around the corner. Guess what more makes Maya amazing. Who to damn trust! Then we get to the cliffhanger. Ahh the cliffhanger. That cliffhanger LS Bryan mentions?? OMG it's one that if I had someone next to me as I read it, I would have slapped them on the backed of their head yelling, 'WHAT THE FUCK'. OMG so cruel, but I fucking love cliffhangers so LS Bryan is forgiven.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What is it with this year and the authors I enjoy pushing me out of my comfort zone? Usually, I'm not one for bully romances, but when Lucy Scott Bryan starts a brand-new paranormal series under a different pen name (L.S. Bryan), you better believe I'm going to read it.
Normally I love academy romance, but the characters in this book have my rage level set to ten. Thales' motto should be "Everyone has one, and everybody is one." Besides a few exceptions, everyone was horrible. And sweet, innocent Maya continuously takes the high road. Well, she got a few shots in; that moment with Alran and the towel was priceless. Good thing I read this in the privacy of my own home; I would have looked insane yelling at a book. The MMCs are going to have an unbelievable amount of groveling to do, and I will be there for it.
This story does give off dystopian vibes. Everyone has lost their minds. Humans and supernaturals may be at odds, but they have an awful lot in common. Both worlds, lacking apathy from everyday people, were downright cruel and had controlling governments. It's a bad, bad world. Not to mention, things in the supernatural world are hinky. I have a lot of questions about the gods, fated mate bonds, and what happened before the Great War. I need answers. The story ended on a cliffhanger that left me in utter shock and dismay. The next book can't come soon enough because that ending is going to live rent-free in my head for a while.
Normally I love academy romance, but the characters in this book have my rage level set to ten. Thales' motto should be "Everyone has one, and everybody is one." Besides a few exceptions, everyone was horrible. And sweet, innocent Maya continuously takes the high road. Well, she got a few shots in; that moment with Alran and the towel was priceless. Good thing I read this in the privacy of my own home; I would have looked insane yelling at a book. The MMCs are going to have an unbelievable amount of groveling to do, and I will be there for it.
This story does give off dystopian vibes. Everyone has lost their minds. Humans and supernaturals may be at odds, but they have an awful lot in common. Both worlds, lacking apathy from everyday people, were downright cruel and had controlling governments. It's a bad, bad world. Not to mention, things in the supernatural world are hinky. I have a lot of questions about the gods, fated mate bonds, and what happened before the Great War. I need answers. The story ended on a cliffhanger that left me in utter shock and dismay. The next book can't come soon enough because that ending is going to live rent-free in my head for a while.
September 1, 2026
THIS BOOK IS CALLING YOUR NAME
'Right now, he looks like he wants to eat me, and not in a fun way.' - Maya.
A new pen name but still the amazing writing you can expect from the brilliant Lucy Scott Bryan, now writing paranormal under L.S. Bryan. The beginning of The Tethered Series sees Maya, our strong, capable and awe inspiring FMC being thrown into the supernatural world with no knowledge, understanding but most importantly without any preconceived prejudice. She has trauma to deal with from her past, has phobias that are debilitating but she stays true to herself and how she was raised and this is what makes her an FMC to champion. My feelings towards the MMCs are a work in progress and as they develop within the series, I hope my appreciation for them changes but as it stands, I am on the fence. The writing from L.S. Bryan is detailed, engaging and the world building, immersive and phenomenal. While we have the basic supernatural characters, werewolf, vampire, demon and the like, it's the history and how the past is coming back and the future is looking rather exciting. If you want to drown in an amazing story and come out the other end cursing the author for stopping at a really good part, then this is for you. If you love a slow burn, paranormal why choose story, then this is for you. In fact, if you love great writing and wonderful characters, then this is for you!
'Right now, he looks like he wants to eat me, and not in a fun way.' - Maya.
A new pen name but still the amazing writing you can expect from the brilliant Lucy Scott Bryan, now writing paranormal under L.S. Bryan. The beginning of The Tethered Series sees Maya, our strong, capable and awe inspiring FMC being thrown into the supernatural world with no knowledge, understanding but most importantly without any preconceived prejudice. She has trauma to deal with from her past, has phobias that are debilitating but she stays true to herself and how she was raised and this is what makes her an FMC to champion. My feelings towards the MMCs are a work in progress and as they develop within the series, I hope my appreciation for them changes but as it stands, I am on the fence. The writing from L.S. Bryan is detailed, engaging and the world building, immersive and phenomenal. While we have the basic supernatural characters, werewolf, vampire, demon and the like, it's the history and how the past is coming back and the future is looking rather exciting. If you want to drown in an amazing story and come out the other end cursing the author for stopping at a really good part, then this is for you. If you love a slow burn, paranormal why choose story, then this is for you. In fact, if you love great writing and wonderful characters, then this is for you!
September 7, 2026
Up all night for this cliffhanger; cannot wait for book 2!
I knew there was a cliffhanger coming, and I kept reading well past my bedtime. I finished at a respectable midnight but kept thinking about my list of unanswered questions well into the wee hours, so here I am writing up my review at 3 am.
“Lost and Bound” by L.S. Bryan follows orphaned, kind-hearted, pure-intentioned Maya. Maya is doing her best for her community under a fascist, militaristic government when a head injury reveals she has the barest trace of ‘other’ DNA, and she must escape the enforcement guards that ‘protect’ humanity. Maya expects a wild, unsettled land of shifters, demons, angels, vampires, and magik-users; instead, she is thrust into a complex, sophisticated society as a completely unprepared student at a paranormal university. Bryan does an excellent job using a first-person POV (almost exclusively Maya’s) to slowly reveal how little she understands about the new oppressive society she is stuck in. I love how Maya constantly works her hardest and tries to see the best in the oppressed even as she is constantly bullied. Maya barely starts to connect with a quad of suped-up supes when it really hits the fan. I cannot wait for this glacially slow-burn, why-choose paranormal romance to pay off in the future book (hopefully with an epic grovel and a badass reveal about Maya’s ancestry)! Need book 2 now!
I knew there was a cliffhanger coming, and I kept reading well past my bedtime. I finished at a respectable midnight but kept thinking about my list of unanswered questions well into the wee hours, so here I am writing up my review at 3 am.
“Lost and Bound” by L.S. Bryan follows orphaned, kind-hearted, pure-intentioned Maya. Maya is doing her best for her community under a fascist, militaristic government when a head injury reveals she has the barest trace of ‘other’ DNA, and she must escape the enforcement guards that ‘protect’ humanity. Maya expects a wild, unsettled land of shifters, demons, angels, vampires, and magik-users; instead, she is thrust into a complex, sophisticated society as a completely unprepared student at a paranormal university. Bryan does an excellent job using a first-person POV (almost exclusively Maya’s) to slowly reveal how little she understands about the new oppressive society she is stuck in. I love how Maya constantly works her hardest and tries to see the best in the oppressed even as she is constantly bullied. Maya barely starts to connect with a quad of suped-up supes when it really hits the fan. I cannot wait for this glacially slow-burn, why-choose paranormal romance to pay off in the future book (hopefully with an epic grovel and a badass reveal about Maya’s ancestry)! Need book 2 now!
October 4, 2026
I honestly have a hate/love/hate relationship with this book. In the beginning the story was just not pulling me in, I was not completely bored with it, just felt it was very slow moving. I was not getting a WOW moment, just a nicely written story about a sweet women trying to survive in a new to her world. I did not hate this enough to DNF the book, but I definitely was not a fan.
Then about halfway through the story things begin to pick up, we are introduced to more interesting characters, who also brought out more interesting parts of Maya, the female main character. I loved watching her learn about herself, I was finally able to feel a connection with her. The rest of the characters in the book are still to mysterious and guarded to be able to connect with. hopefully in the next book this will change. . I was getting excited about the storyline, I was invested in Maya's friendship with Orion, As well as her connections with Cane, Arlis and Emerys.
Just as I started to connect with Maya, and the story was dragging me in, the book ends, on a cliffhanger. A big enough cliffhanger that had me yelling at my Kindle, the characters, the author, and anyone in the room at the time. I didn't need a devastating cliffhanger to convince me to read the second book, I was invested enough in the story for that. Ending on such a cliffhanger has just left me feeling incomplete while I wait for the next book to release.
Then about halfway through the story things begin to pick up, we are introduced to more interesting characters, who also brought out more interesting parts of Maya, the female main character. I loved watching her learn about herself, I was finally able to feel a connection with her. The rest of the characters in the book are still to mysterious and guarded to be able to connect with. hopefully in the next book this will change. . I was getting excited about the storyline, I was invested in Maya's friendship with Orion, As well as her connections with Cane, Arlis and Emerys.
Just as I started to connect with Maya, and the story was dragging me in, the book ends, on a cliffhanger. A big enough cliffhanger that had me yelling at my Kindle, the characters, the author, and anyone in the room at the time. I didn't need a devastating cliffhanger to convince me to read the second book, I was invested enough in the story for that. Ending on such a cliffhanger has just left me feeling incomplete while I wait for the next book to release.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow what a start to this series. that ending. I need book 2. This book is beautiful written and i enjoyed reading this book, it is amazing.
A run in with a mouse and a broken stair does the inexplicable; it changes my DNA. I’m forced to flee my home, leaving everything and everyone I’ve ever known behind. The alternative is being hunted down because these days you're either a pure-blooded human, or you’re the enemy.
I’ve barely started running, and I’m faced with a choice. It’s an easy decision, helping people is who I am, but it also starts a chain of events that has ever-lasting consequences.
I wake up in the infirmary at Thales, the largest and most prestigious mixed-species academy in Quin-state. With a mysterious benefactor sponsoring my attendance, I’m suddenly a student again.
A drop of blood was all it took to flip my entire existence upside down, imagine what’s going to happen when I figure out how to survive in their world.
The Tethered Series is an academy, paranormal, why-choose trilogy. Lost and Bound will end on a cliffhanger.
A run in with a mouse and a broken stair does the inexplicable; it changes my DNA. I’m forced to flee my home, leaving everything and everyone I’ve ever known behind. The alternative is being hunted down because these days you're either a pure-blooded human, or you’re the enemy.
I’ve barely started running, and I’m faced with a choice. It’s an easy decision, helping people is who I am, but it also starts a chain of events that has ever-lasting consequences.
I wake up in the infirmary at Thales, the largest and most prestigious mixed-species academy in Quin-state. With a mysterious benefactor sponsoring my attendance, I’m suddenly a student again.
A drop of blood was all it took to flip my entire existence upside down, imagine what’s going to happen when I figure out how to survive in their world.
The Tethered Series is an academy, paranormal, why-choose trilogy. Lost and Bound will end on a cliffhanger.
August 31, 2026
Wow!
Lost and Bound is a new fantasy RH story. One that is filled with supernaturals and magic...all in an academy setting.
Maya's world is changed after she has an accident and finds out that she's not 100% human. She is forced to flee everything she's always known. And her journey over the wall, ends with her at Thales...a supernatural academy. A place where she's a nom...meaning she's at the bottom rung in the supernatural world. Mistreated and bullied by basically everyone, Maya struggles to find her way on this new path her life has been forced on.
I love the mysteries that surround Maya. You know that there is so much more to her powers and I have a feeling that she's about to make some big waves around the supernatural world. I also love Orion! He is the only decent person and a great best friend for Maya.
That ending has me screaming for the next book. I need to know if Maya's safe or not.
Lost and Bound is a new fantasy RH story. One that is filled with supernaturals and magic...all in an academy setting.
Maya's world is changed after she has an accident and finds out that she's not 100% human. She is forced to flee everything she's always known. And her journey over the wall, ends with her at Thales...a supernatural academy. A place where she's a nom...meaning she's at the bottom rung in the supernatural world. Mistreated and bullied by basically everyone, Maya struggles to find her way on this new path her life has been forced on.
I love the mysteries that surround Maya. You know that there is so much more to her powers and I have a feeling that she's about to make some big waves around the supernatural world. I also love Orion! He is the only decent person and a great best friend for Maya.
That ending has me screaming for the next book. I need to know if Maya's safe or not.
August 30, 2026
I absolutely couldn’t put this down. I had to find out what happens to Maya. She is one that you love right off the bat, with her sweet and caring personality. She gets the shock of her life after an incident that changes her. She ends up in an academy only to have her life change again. She meets Orion who becomes her best friend. I absolutely adore him and how much of a protective friend he becomes. There is definitely some bullying that absolutely makes you dislike some of the characters. Then you have some that very confusing as they are back and forth with emotions. The story is extremely well written and developed. This journey we are taking alongside of Maya is one that will leave you glued to your seat. Then we get to the ending of this book and I am super excited to see what happens next. I absolutely want more of Maya and her journey.
September 2, 2026
Who doesnt love s new book from LS Bryan???? let me tell you that this book does not disappoint and is book 2 in the series and ends on a cliffhanger.
So what do we get, wolf shifter, demon, vampire and spell caster (what a delish combination) and lets just say that these men will not be out on first book pedestal, as they don’t accept her, they want nothing to do with her (light bullying from our main men0. But these men our fierce and for them Maya is something unknown, an ordinary person who has been thrust into the depths of Thales Academy. Maya needs to learn not only who she is but also this new place.
What LS Bryan does in this book is builds us the beginning of the story of these four males and Maya, and pulls us in as she builds and develops each of our characters.
A story that is hard to put down and leaves you begging for more.
So what do we get, wolf shifter, demon, vampire and spell caster (what a delish combination) and lets just say that these men will not be out on first book pedestal, as they don’t accept her, they want nothing to do with her (light bullying from our main men0. But these men our fierce and for them Maya is something unknown, an ordinary person who has been thrust into the depths of Thales Academy. Maya needs to learn not only who she is but also this new place.
What LS Bryan does in this book is builds us the beginning of the story of these four males and Maya, and pulls us in as she builds and develops each of our characters.
A story that is hard to put down and leaves you begging for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been a fan of this author’s paranormal works since Amari Wolfe. Lost & Bound is even more AMAZING! The parallels between fantasy and reality are well done and relevant.
⋆˖⁺‧₊☽𓅨☾₊‧⁺˖⋆Maya (FMC) is compassionate, kind, empathetic, and has a deep well of inner strength. ⋆˖⁺‧₊☽𓅨☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
We have so much more to learn about Maya and this world and I cannot wait for Book2 to drop in my library when it releases to answer more of those questions.
“My father showed me how ugly prejudice is, teaching me how to be impartial while staying good-hearted and strong willed. And my mom assured me that being a normal person with pure intentions was more important than being ‘pure’ person with normal intentions.”
⋆˖⁺‧₊☽𓅨☾₊‧⁺˖⋆Maya (FMC) is compassionate, kind, empathetic, and has a deep well of inner strength. ⋆˖⁺‧₊☽𓅨☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
We have so much more to learn about Maya and this world and I cannot wait for Book2 to drop in my library when it releases to answer more of those questions.
“My father showed me how ugly prejudice is, teaching me how to be impartial while staying good-hearted and strong willed. And my mom assured me that being a normal person with pure intentions was more important than being ‘pure’ person with normal intentions.”
September 1, 2026
Well I have to say that this was an epic read for me! I couldn't put it down once i started reading it.
Maya (FMC) is a orphan brought up in a world where Humans and Supernaturals know, fear and hate one another. So much so that after a war between them they built a wall/fence separating each other. Only for events to lead Maya to crossing into a new land putting her in a place that she's completely out of her depth in. A life within a new school doesn't make things better for her. Bullying being a major factor. To be honest I'm on the fence about Cane, Arlan, Emrys & Bael? I haven't found anything in liked about them yet (I'll see how that changes in future books).
I did like Maya though and how she didn't let any of the bullying idiots get to her. Oh and can we get more book time with Broderick. I liked him too. That cliffhanger ending was a jaw dropper though. I'll be on tenterhooks until the next book now.
Maya (FMC) is a orphan brought up in a world where Humans and Supernaturals know, fear and hate one another. So much so that after a war between them they built a wall/fence separating each other. Only for events to lead Maya to crossing into a new land putting her in a place that she's completely out of her depth in. A life within a new school doesn't make things better for her. Bullying being a major factor. To be honest I'm on the fence about Cane, Arlan, Emrys & Bael? I haven't found anything in liked about them yet (I'll see how that changes in future books).
I did like Maya though and how she didn't let any of the bullying idiots get to her. Oh and can we get more book time with Broderick. I liked him too. That cliffhanger ending was a jaw dropper though. I'll be on tenterhooks until the next book now.
August 30, 2026
Finished in one day!!!! I was hooked from the start and I couldn't put it down until the end! Speaking of ending.... I cannot accept that ending!!!
Im left with so many questions and maybe just a few suspicions. Regardless, I need book 2 as soon as possible!!
The plot was truly captivating and I loved the Maya.
She has a huge heart. She continues to put one foot in front of the other, regardless of other's cruelty. There is definitely something special and important about her.
This book had mystery, secrets, drama, emotional moments, and bits of humor!
This was an excellent beginning to Maya's story!!
Im left with so many questions and maybe just a few suspicions. Regardless, I need book 2 as soon as possible!!
The plot was truly captivating and I loved the Maya.
She has a huge heart. She continues to put one foot in front of the other, regardless of other's cruelty. There is definitely something special and important about her.
This book had mystery, secrets, drama, emotional moments, and bits of humor!
This was an excellent beginning to Maya's story!!
September 1, 2026
This was such a good read and kept me at the edge of my seat. It didn't want to put it down and then I wanted to throw it after reading the cliffhanger (jk). When Maya finds out she is not quite human anymore, she is sent to an academy to refine her skills and figure out how she fits in the this new world. She is at the bottom of the social ladder and almost everyone wants to keep her there. There are several guys that she seems pulled to but they do not seem to feel the same way. She keeps holding to the values that her parents gave her just trying to make it through. When the bad guys attack the academy, what will she do? Go read this story now!!!
September 30, 2026
Such an amazing read and here I thought I had reviewed it earlier but clearly I didn't. I love stories like these. The supernatural world created here with an academy setting. Now desperately waiting for the second book but that's ok. This is a very good well written story that leaves me wanting more. Maya is living in the human world but after a fall she finds herself in the supernatural world discovering new things. Now there is more happening than Maya realises but we get a sense of it. Be aware this has bullying in it and from the guys too. I am pretty sure they will turn out good but a rocky start there. Excited for the next.
August 29, 2026
Lost and Bound Lucy scott bryan
L.S Bryan out done herself writing Lost and Bound! I’m (not so) patiently waiting for book 2.
The Tethered Series by L.S. Bryan and it was SO good and a wonderful start to the Trilogy. I was pulled in from the beginning. The plot line- *Chief’s kiss*.
The cliff hanger got me. I can’t wait to read more of Maya, Bael, Emrys, Cane & Arlan. I love how strong Maya’s character is- I will enjoy watching her evolve!
Very slow to start. Lost and Bounds has a little bit of everything when it comes to Tropes. You’re definitely in for a treat!
L.S Bryan out done herself writing Lost and Bound! I’m (not so) patiently waiting for book 2.
The Tethered Series by L.S. Bryan and it was SO good and a wonderful start to the Trilogy. I was pulled in from the beginning. The plot line- *Chief’s kiss*.
The cliff hanger got me. I can’t wait to read more of Maya, Bael, Emrys, Cane & Arlan. I love how strong Maya’s character is- I will enjoy watching her evolve!
Very slow to start. Lost and Bounds has a little bit of everything when it comes to Tropes. You’re definitely in for a treat!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lost & Bound, book 1 of the new trilogy, The Tethered by L. S. Bryan. Lucy Scott Bryan is writing as L. S. Bryan @lucyscottbryanauthor Lucy is definitely a favorite author of mine!
Such a good book about Maya, Bael, Emrys, Cane & Arlan! Very slow to start. Tropes: Contemporary, Paranormal, Reverse Harem Without MM, Mostly Single POV (Maya), Human/Magic, Vampire, Shifter, Demon, FMC Is Heavily Bullied, SLOW Burn & A Brutal Cliffhanger! Hopefully book 2 is soon! 😳
Such a good book about Maya, Bael, Emrys, Cane & Arlan! Very slow to start. Tropes: Contemporary, Paranormal, Reverse Harem Without MM, Mostly Single POV (Maya), Human/Magic, Vampire, Shifter, Demon, FMC Is Heavily Bullied, SLOW Burn & A Brutal Cliffhanger! Hopefully book 2 is soon! 😳
August 31, 2026
I’ve been waiting for this book for weeks if not months!
It’s definitely worth the read if you’re into academy fantasy settings.
I will say this it’s different to what I was expecting and just as it was getting better it ends on a cliffhanger and now I have to wait until feb 2027? That is totally unfair😢😂
Although who I think the MMCs are, really tested my patience.. what assholes! I’m sure they have their reasons but I really wasn’t a fan by that cliffhanger…
Loved the book though🤍
It’s definitely worth the read if you’re into academy fantasy settings.
I will say this it’s different to what I was expecting and just as it was getting better it ends on a cliffhanger and now I have to wait until feb 2027? That is totally unfair😢😂
Although who I think the MMCs are, really tested my patience.. what assholes! I’m sure they have their reasons but I really wasn’t a fan by that cliffhanger…
Loved the book though🤍
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this book , the FMC is a mature but also is an emotional roller coaster as she’s thrown into situations! But she’s head strong when she takes on the multiple male characters. This book has multiple evolutionary plot lines and ends on a cliffhanger but in a fantastic way. Can’t wait for book 2 !!!
August 29, 2026
This highly talented author never disappoints readers. I am always looking forward to her next book. This new series is brilliant! I am not a fan of cliffhangers but this one is so well written that it’s worth the wait! I find this series delightful…the characters are compelling, vibrant and refreshing. The world building is creative and I loved every single page.❤️❤️❤️
August 29, 2026
That cliffhanger! 😩 Now I’m officially counting down until book two.
Maya is definitely one of my favorite types of FMCs. Shes has a feisty side but also cares about others. One of my favorite tropes is a good bully romance, but only when the FMC can hold her own and come back swinging so I was hooked!
Now I need to know more about Maya and the guys!
Maya is definitely one of my favorite types of FMCs. Shes has a feisty side but also cares about others. One of my favorite tropes is a good bully romance, but only when the FMC can hold her own and come back swinging so I was hooked!
Now I need to know more about Maya and the guys!
September 20, 2026
I am so sad this book has ended and I have to wait until 2027 for the next one!
If you like slow burn why choose paranormal academia this is the book for you!
This books follows Maya and her magikal awakening. Along the way she meets the best friend she didn't know she needed, a bird companion with a lot of sass, magikal beings who's prejudice views are just as bad as humans and four men who really know how to push her buttons.
As the self appointed Why Choose Queen, this has made its way to one of my top 5 why choose books!
If you like slow burn why choose paranormal academia this is the book for you!
This books follows Maya and her magikal awakening. Along the way she meets the best friend she didn't know she needed, a bird companion with a lot of sass, magikal beings who's prejudice views are just as bad as humans and four men who really know how to push her buttons.
As the self appointed Why Choose Queen, this has made its way to one of my top 5 why choose books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an amazing start to a series. Yes it ends in a pretty significant cliffhanger but that just makes me want book 2 even more. This book is slowburn but a lot is happening so it does make it impossible to put down.
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