The Light Who Binds

Bluebell Kildare #2

by Lilo Abernathy

A world unravels and a heroine arises . . .

Psychic Inspector Blue learns the shocking truth: she’s prophesied to destroy the Great Demon Lilith and save all vampires from burning eternally on the Plane of Fire. Worse yet, she will die three deaths during this one life. Jack, her sexy vampire boss, reveals this significant truth at the Dragomira Magical Artifact shop, and Blue is not pleased that she’s the last to know.

Torn, Jack, struggles between hope that Blue will save all their souls and his intense desire to protect her from this terrible destiny. With a vicious serial arsonist plotting fires in Crimson Hollow and several factions of enemies attacking her at every turn, even help from Jack and her massive wolf Varg may not be enough to save her.
Hate grows and the Great Peace Pact that’s unified the different breeds of humans for two millennia threatens to break. The dark prophecy unfolds.

Amid all this turmoil, Jack pushes Blue’s patience to the limit as his eyes vow yes to her, but his delicious mouth murmurs no. She finally puts her foot down and demands he make a decision.

What will he choose? And can she handle the answer?

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Rated R: A few scenes contain explicit sex, violence, and mild profanity; recommended for 17+ years

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Romance, Vampires, Paranormal, Audiobook

404 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 24, 2015

About the author

First of all, I LOVE when my readers friend me! (I'll keep you in the loop on news, sales, and fundraisers; all of which I do periodically.)

The first 10 chapters of my debut novel, The Light Who Shines, are available for FREE here: http://liloabernathy.com/the-books/bl...

I'm currently forty-three, but that could differ depending on what year you read this. Unless some fundamental laws of nature change, I expect that number to only get higher. I am half Italian and half Irish. Well, the Irish side is sort of an Irish/German/English/French/Scottish mix, but since I believed I was truly half Irish until my mother's foray into genealogy, I'm sticking to that story.

I live amidst the Smoky Mountains and can sometimes see the shadows of clouds lying on the mountains from my front porch. I am not yet snobbish enough to call it a veranda, but time will tell. I'm a great believer in the proof being in the pudding. Sometimes my young adult daughter joins me on the veranda... err, porch to admire the view. Often my Australian Shepherd runs around the veranda looking for things to shepherd in the yard. Because we are decidedly lacking in livestock, he frequently presents me with slobbery balls to throw. I, in turn, do my best to ignore them. I feel justified in this neglect because I am planning on adopting a girlfriend for him soon so they can wrestle over the slobbery ball together to wagging tails' content.

I started working full time while in high school and haven't stopped since. My illustrious career began with a smattering of service experiences at various fast food and restaurant chains, went on to fine jewelry, slipped into property management for housing projects, morphed into corporate real estate, then ended up in mergers and acquisitions. Please don't ask me how that happened as I would have to kill you if I told you.

My home is a modestly sized ranch, recently purchased and still not completely unpacked. The walls are a boring light beige, but they make the perfect backdrop for my brightly colored Gustav Klimt canvas prints. Van Gogh hopes to join Klimt on my walls soon, but right now the brakes on my Cube need to be fixed, and the washer overflows if I place the water level on super-duper high. Priorities, priorities.

More importantly than all of the above, you absolutely must know that my favorite color is purple. Not Barney purple, no offense to Barney, but more of a medium eggplant purple. I like to think of it as a "mature" purple, but deep down I know it is really just purple.

P.S. My books are available at Amazon.

Reviews

[Koffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say WOW!!!! Just WOW!!! This book just have it all I didn't think Lilo Abernathy could possible make me love this fantastic world and characters she has created anymore than I already did, But I was wrong oh so wrong I was ignorant and now I have seen the light haha :P.

No but really Lilo Abernathy keeps writing these awesome captivating books that I just can't escape, add to that the fact that I have finished the second book and I really really want more.




I just loved this book so much there was such incredible revelations in it. I really felt like alot of things where explained and came to light in this second installment of Bluebell Kildare. I am suprise I had to go look hard to find this series, it should be right at the top of the UF list of amazing books, along with books such as Kate Daniels, Mercy Thompson, Jane Yellowrock and other best selling awesome UF books.





If you are thinking about buying this book I got one thing to tell you stop thinking and buy it now!!! I promise that if you liked or like me, deligthed in the first installment of the Bluebell Kildare series. Then you will just drop everything to get a chanse too read this.

Thanks to Lilo Abernathy for another amazing and captivating book that keept me at the edge of my seat through the entire read. I can't stress enough how very well and interesting written this series is.

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lilo Abernathy has done it again and captivated my senses in her second installment of the Bluebell Kildare series. I absolutely could not get enough of this book; I read it straight through in one sitting. She has a way of making you feel so much for each character (major and minor). I still love all the first characters from Blue’s support system, Maude, her best friend, Varg, but I hate to say it, but Lilo’s unredeemable character Dean Schmidt from book one had me wishing for one more chapter with him in it. The relationship between Blue and Jack had me – no let me rephrase that – It HAS me on pins and needles and has me clambering impatiently for Book Three. I swear I was clutching my chest for several minutes at the conclusion of this novel.

The Light Who Binds is well written and fully developed, making it such a fun, fast, pleasurable read. I highly recommend this book to all Paranormal and Fantasy enthusiasts.

Review of Lilo’s writing style:

I love the way Lilo unveils the story from two points of view, Bluebell and Jack (her boss and love interest). I found it easy to keep up with the switch; however, it was nice of Lilo to add an easy transition. This transition can be found at the beginning of each chapter where she announces each POV along with the date as a deterrent upon possible confusion.

For those who need a little reminder of all the wonderful details from Book One, that’s okay, because Lilo added a refresher the reader can choose to read or skip. She reminds us of the different breeds of people and who the main characters are as well as provides a timeline and an account of magical artifacts and objects.

It’s always nice to come across an author who is willing to enhance the reader’s enjoyment, and Lilo Abernathy did just that. It’s such fun to watch a writer’s techniques as well as their characters grow. I will assuredly be following Lilo Abernathy down the rabbit hole in her series.

[Julia Red Hatter Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

In love!!

I'm absolutely in love with the world Lilo Abernathy has created. It sucks you in and I don't wanna leave! I'm invested in this story and I really didn't want to finish the book since I know I'll have to wait for the next one! The words just flow right off the page and stick with you. The characters have stolen my heart, all of them.

Blue is growing so fast and turning into quite the little bad arse. She's one of those characters you can't help but love, she is trying so hard to fulfill her destiny and it's refreshing to have that. She isn't one to whine about stuff that happens to her, she kicks butt and continues on. Blue has quickly become one of my favorite female leads!

Jack. Oh Jack. I really just want to give him a big hug. He has so much turmoil going on inside him and my heart goes out to him. I love seeing the dual POV's, I love looking inside of Jack's head. His whole thinking process is protecting Blue, even from himself. He is such a great character and I love him and Blue together. Their whole relationship/friendship is amazing to see. And Varg!! Varg is awesome! So protective and loyal, I love him!!

This book had me thoroughly engrossed from page one. I'd recommend it to all who love urban fantasy. You won't be able to put it down! Can't wait for the next book!!

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. Bluebell, Jack and Varg are back and the stakes are getting higher.
This book more or less starts from were The Light Who Shines ended.
Bluebell is all healed after the torture she endured at the hands of Tobias Blackwater and is ready to be told the big secrets surrounding The key, Lilith and Bluebell's role in the whole affair..
This book answered a lot of questions from the first book, while at the same time leaving new questions to be answered.
I liked the fact that in this book we also get to know a little more about Dragomira and her role in the story, as well as been introduced to the mysterious Anna Marie. There were shocks aplenty in this book and the biggest for me was the evil Dean Schimdt, I was rooting for him to be flayed alive, but he seems to be a major player maybe?

There were times when I wanted to smack Jack then he doe's something to surprise me. He is the helpless hero, but flawed and I liked that.
This book just flowed with so much been revealed yet still kept back. So many hints I just need the next book.

[Louise White · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Light Who Binds by Lilo Abernathy was an excellent follow up to her first book, The Light Who Shines. Packed with action-adventure, mystery and suspense, I was thoroughly entertained throughout, and terribly sad that I'll have a wait a while before the next one is out. 
Blue's training serves to supplement her quiet strength which is severely tested   by a series of events and revelations that blew me away.
I loved learning more about Varg and Jack. Their loyalty and devotion knows no bounds. The characters have all been beautifully developed with Dragomira and weirdly, Shmidt - don't judge until you read it - as particular favourites.
I believe that Crimson Hollow is real place with a sickness for which the cure is imminent. I look forward to finding out what happens with the next instalment of this gripping series.

[Carol-Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Bluebell Killdare series by Lilo J Abernathy. If you have not read the first one yet, the Light who Shines, do so now! I enjoyed this book immensely. Blue, her companion Varg, a gorgeous wolf, and Jack, her boss at the Investigation Agency, are off on another adventure. Blue is about to make some interesting, stunning discoveries about herself, which both scare and confuse her. We learn more about Varg as well, and Blue's romantic feelings for Jack lead her to force him to make a decision. In this book, a mysterious fire-starter is causing havoc, townsfolk are out to destroy vampires and gifted alike and it is up to Blue, Jack and the agency to solve the baffling mystery and protect the innocent. The writing in this book is lyrical, and flows like a beautiful melody throughout. The pace is scintillating and keeps you reading way past bedtime! The intricacies of the plot are carefully knitted together into a stunningly suspenseful way, and you are inexorably drawn into the characters, becoming one with them. I felt every emotion; anxiety, fear, sadness, joy, excitement, all of it. There were even parts that brought me to tears, which does not often happen when I read. At the end of the book, I felt as if my emotions had been put through a wringer, and as I came out of this dream world, I realized that I was not a character! What a shock! The Light who Binds is a MUST READ! I will be awaiting further books most eagerly, as my secret life must continue! Well done Lilo J Abernathy for an amazing book! I wish you much success with this series!

[Jennifer Zamboni · Rating 5 out of 5]

After much anticipation, I got my hands on this second book in the Bluebell Kildare series. I was up with the littlest kiddo at one in the morning, day of the book release, & I just couldn't wait, so I bought it straight off, and started reading, as soon as I was awake enough to comprehend words. I couldn't put it down! From start to finish, I was sucked in. No slow points where I had any inclination to put the book down, & go do something else. There's a good look a Blue's past, who/what Varg is. I found out what the mysterious Illustrisima (please forgive me, if I misspelled) is. There are even hints as to what Dragomera is. The end left me a bit sad, and looking forward to book three. (Note: this series is definitely NOT for young readers. There sex is graphic, though it's just a part of the story, & doesn't take over the story.)
I'm a huge fan of Ms. Abernathy, & will continue reading everything she publishes!

[J. Kahele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant sequel

I read the first book and was amazed by the talent of this author. Normally a second book is not nearly as good but I have to say this one was just as good. I have become quite fond of blue. She is a very strong female character who takes on anything good or bad with dignity and is an inspiration.

[Grazzit · Rating 4 out of 5]

As good as the first book. Well even better because blue is smarter and learning to take more care of herself. Can't wait for book 3

[Lyndi W. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Took me like 3 years to get to this sequel, but here we are. And are we happy about it? Are we pleased with the story? Not...really... =/

Okay here's the thing: Blue is a bit of a Mary Sue prophesized to save the world. I actually like Mary Sues more often than not, but they have to be in the right story. Her Mary Sueness worked in the first book. This time around, she's Mary Sue in God Mode. She's so fucking overpowered, she's destroying evil just by being in the same room. She has NOT A SINGLE FUCKING CLUE how to use her powers, but manages the most difficult of all magical manipulations during her first lesson.

Like, I get it. I'm totally fine with overpowered heroes and Mary Sues, but you can't combine them like this. Some of her power can be explained away by the storyline - she can kick ass because she's actually been training. Her powers are stronger because of something spoilery. But most of it just made me roll my eyes. Never once did I think "Ooooh she's in trouble now!" I just figured she'd magically find a way out of trouble, yet again. The epic climax was basically Blue doing the impossible and not even knowing how she was doing it.

Now, the main storyline - the bad guys, the main series arc, the romance, the side characters, all that - I love it. It's a lot of fun and I'm absolutely interested in more. But Blue is way too OP and needs to struggle with more than just her relationship status.

[Wendy Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Light Who Binds is the second installment of the Bluebell Kildare series. Blue is a supernatural investigator attempting to track down a serial arsonist, who is using magic to start fires, that are killing gifted families. She is also attempting to deal with a prophecy that states she will save all vampires from eternal damnation.

The story is told from both Blue and Jack’s (her boss) point of view. Both points of view are told in the first person in alternating chapters and it can be confusing at some points, even though each chapter heading tells you who the narrator is.

In this book we learn quite a bit more about Blue and what she’s capable of. There are some moments where I think Blue make some incredibly poor choices when it comes to her safety, but through it all she has Varg, her trusty wolf sidekick, and Jack, the daylight vampire she’s in love with, who is also her boss.

As Blue tries to track down the serial arsonist she gets kidnapped a couple of times, having to send a distress signal to Jack each time so he can track her down. But each time that happens she learns something new, and brings her much closer to solving the case. She also has to figure out how to control her magic so it doesn’t take control of her. Jack is also struggling with how to tell her who he is because he’s afraid he will lose her once she knows.

This series is well written, action packed, and a fun read, as we follow Blue and Jack while they investigate several different events. All of which are dangerous and possibly connected. Blue has a heart of gold and is willing to sacrifice herself for the safety of others, much to Jack’s dismay since he is forever having to drop what he's doing to track her down each time she sends her distress signal. I was anxiously turning pages to see how everything would turn out. And of course there is still a lot more to cover in the next book.

I definitely recommend this one, but start with The Light Who Shines, which is the first book in the series.

[J. d'Merricksson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Light who Binds by Lilo Abernathy is the second in a series. The writing style drew me in right away, and I found myself enjoying the story despite a growing disenchantment with books that involve vampires (and werewolves). I'm beginning to have the same disenchantment with books using fae, though there's still so much leeway with the fae yet. It's just that there are depths to mythology and cryptozoology that have yet to be plumbed in the sci-fi/fantasy world! I read this one first, and Abernathy adds a bit of recap for necessary details. I was rather charmed by the world, and have big plans to snag the first book and give it a read.

Bluebell is a psychic investigator, and this book involves a search for a serial magickal arsonist (as if mundane arsonists weren't terrifying enough...), as well as Blue dealing with a prophecy involving her.

I enjoyed the switching between viewpoints, and the character development was great. Looking forward to seeing where each go from here. Description is what really pulled me in. I love when the author paints pictures easy to envision in the mind's eye. That's magick all its own, it is. The cover scares me a bit O_O. It reminded me of the covers to some of the books I still have from the '80s, and I think it could be more appealing.

If you enjoy Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake and Merry Gentry books, but would prefer a lack of gratuitous sex to the stories, be sure to check out Lilo Abernathy's Bluebell Kincaid series. It's sure to please.

[Lorna Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crime, fantasy and romance are aplenty in the life of  Bluebell Kildare on top of which she commits to hours of rigorous daily training in addition to her busy supernatural work schedule.   Crimson hollow is experiencing an influx of dark vampires, with house fires  blazing and death tolls rising in this action packed second book in the series. Blue is developing her strength and ingenuity with empowering results, always displaying great strength of character resulting in her giving  Jack a long overdue ultimatum.   

  Lilo Abernathy has a beauitful style of descriptive writing engaging the reader with delightfully quirky street names, my personal favourites being Crooked Creek road, sinners hollow road and best of all,  scull cracker highway.  I love that our shining light is getting stronger and more capable with her trusty wolf and the addition of her magical knife that returns to her when she calls.  I found this to be  reminiscent of Bette Midler calling for her booook in Hocus Pocus.  

The sweet and lovely Blue finds herself on a roller coaster of love and betrayal.  I felt angry and sorrowful on her behalf when Jack eventually reveals all!!!  My advice to her would be to kick his sneaky deceitful arse to the kerb.  All will be revealed no doubt in book 3 which I can't wait for.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was unsure that the second book in the series would be able to meet my expectations after reading the first book. There were just so many exciting possibilities for the author to take the storyline and to further develop the characters. I have a very active and creative imagination, so I am often disappointed in the final outcome of a book that I have been waiting oh-so-impatiently to be released. I have never been so happy to fall short on my expectations.

The story was even better than I could ever have imagined. The story was something that did not entirely see coming. It was as Lilo took everything that I was expecting and then turned it up a notch. I could not read the book fast enough. I hated to set it down for even a second.

This is one series that is worth the time and effort to obtain. I can not think of a negative thing to say about it at all. I wish I could give it 6 stars.

[Peter Dickerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read The Light Who Binds (Bluebell Kildare, #2) in the past week. I read The Light Who Shines previously.

This book is very entertaining. It is a page turner. The story flows sensibly, and the tension builds.

The book is well written and structured. The content and style is well considered and presented.

The heroes are very likeable. Blue is a strong and sensible main female hero. Blue's protector, the mysterious wolf Varg is great in this book again.

The action scenes are necessary, but tight and fairly resolved. A certain level of clashing and conflict is expected in a Fantasy book, and Blue is after all dealing with ancient and evil adversaries.

Lilo's social consciousness themes are thoughtful, important to the book and nicely balanced with the story.

I enjoyed this book very much. I am now waiting for Book 3 ... :)

[Giselle Marks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stunning sequel to “The Light who Binds” book two in the Bluebell Kildare series by Lilo Abernathy. I read the story on tenterhooks as each fresh discovery was revealed. Lilo draws us into her world where we partisanly cheer Bluebell on. The ties binding her characters together are so real that you bite your lip worrying how they will survive the events around them. As Bluebell and Jack fight their way through with the wondrous Varg at their side you see it so vividly and are on the edge of your chair with tension as it reaches a climax. I for one can’t wait for “The Binding of the Wolf” which will complete the trilogy. A quality read for lovers of the paranormal. Well written, fast-moving forming a richly tapestried background for Bluebell and Jack’s Romance.

[K.K. Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful second installment in the Blue Kildare series! The Light Who Shines was wonderful, the world building perfect, and I was more than ready to dive into The Light Who Binds. The story doesn’t disappoint with action, conflict, revelations, and a heart pumping romance. I especially love the tension between the Norms and the Gifted. I can see a lot more is coming with all of this and I’m excited.

We learn more about what Blue is capable of, which is one thing I was ready for. And I’ll just say it, thank goodness for Varg! No Blue is complete without him.

Another well written, fun read from Ms. Abernathy. Can’t wait for more!

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sigh. I don't want to wait for the next installment. I love this world Ms Abernathy has created and the characters are well thought out. I found myself rooting for different characters throughout the book (and being surprised by at least one of those people I was rooting for). You know a book has you enthralled when, as you get towards the end of the book, you keep hoping for just one more chapter.

[Tia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Second Book

The story moves forward with action, trouble, revelations, mysteries to unravel and standoffs. While a missing person with specific gifts is surrounded with mysterious happenings, Blue must face kidnapping attempts and escapes from dangerous situations while an old nemesis continues to stalk her, new fractions come out of the woodwork. Fantastic read, believable characters and interesting circumstances abound.

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

More Blue!!!

This second book in the Bluebell Kildare series is a page turner! More Blue, more Jack and more Varg. You learn how Varg came to guard Blue. Blue discovers new talents as the SIB officials track down a killer arsonist targeting Gifted children and her relationship with Jack changes.

[Michael Callan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Epitome of what a good story should be

Once in a great while you will pick up a book and know you won't stop before it is done. This is that book! Step into this alternate world and meet Vargas (an intelligent wolf that has rather unique abilities), 2 distinct types of vampires, and people with abilities. You won't regret it.

[Kathryn West · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lilo delivers again! I loved the first book and the second has not disappointed. As well as the characters already known and loved, we learn more about Dragonmira and also the mysterious Anna Marie (from the orphanage). The Great Pact is unravelling with breedism on the increase. Blue is constantly under threat but still has others to protect in her role for SIB. Can't wait for #3.

[Emmi Kivimäki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm speechless! I loved the first book and this second book was even better.
The story went on quite nicely. Reading how Blue struggles to find her way as Illustrissima and how she copes with the prophecy is amazing. She is such a strong heroine. And all the other characters are strong too and so loveable.

And now it will be agony to wait for the next book.

[Nubbie Still · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! Great writing, wonderful characters, and awesome story line. This book is a great follow through from the first installment. I highly recommend it! I have the ebook version and can't wait to get a hard copy of this book to join the first.

[Irina B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story and characters!

I have been eagerly waiting for the second book and the wait was completely worth it!!!! I couldn't put this one down either and now I can't wait for the next one! I love Blue and Jack and just can't get enough!!!!

[Samantha Holdsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant, I couldn't put the book down and ended up sleeping through the night lol. Can't wait for the next one.

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really have enjoyed this series. Can't wait for the next book.

[Steven Smithen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Keeps getting better. Loved it.

[Richard Fish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read

While magic and tricks envelope the main people in this tale it has good romantic involvement throughout. I enjoyed it.

[Manee' Jacob · Rating 4 out of 5]

Couldn't put down!!

Just as good as the first and love Varg more and more. Story line was captivating and can't wait to get more of Blue and Jack!!!!!