What do you think?
Rate this book
Dark Secrets #6.1
Bound
Elora can speak to the dead, but she has an affinity with the undead. Born of immortal blood, her curse not set to trigger until around her twenty-fifth year, she was sent away to remain unaware of and hidden from the world of magic. And from vampires. But after Elora befriends the cocky, self-loving Ric Mason, she discovers secrets about him and his distant link to her family that reshape her entire world. A dark, sexy, two-book series that will have you screaming for more...
408 pages, Paperback
First published March 21, 2015
107 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
Angela M. Hudson
31 books800 followersAuthor of books that crush your soul and leave you wanting more.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 21, 2015
I received an ARC of Bound from Author AM Hudson in exchange for an honest review, and I have to say this book did not disappoint, and I will recommend this book to anyone looking for a book you can really fall in love with, I absolutely loved....LOVED it! :)
The story is based around Elora, who is a character from AM Hudson's Dark Secret Series, I was extremely pleased to see this is a stand-alone book, while having previously read Dark Secrets would definitely help understand who everyone is, it's not a requirement as A.M. does a fantastic job of bringing the reader into the story line without having to have read Dark Secrets. (I personally loved Dark Secrets and would definitely recommend that series to anyone as well)
In Bound Elora is experiencing some things that make her search out answers and she amazingly finds quite a bit of answers on her own, and Elora handles everything with amazing strength and rather than getting angry at the secrets that have been kept from her, she understands why they've been kept from her and she doesn't allow circumstances to change her.
I loved how she was so strong and didn't do the whole poor me routine when she found things out, she takes it all in stride and is like "ok not a problem let's deal with it."
Elora's BFF Ali is quite funny, as well as Ric, her new friend and love interest. There are so many laugh out loud moments in this wonderful book, I loved reading the snarky banter back and forth.
I love also that this book doesn't end on a cliffhanger, it does continue the story in the next book but it is a stand-alone full novel.
I will anxiously be looking forward to reading the rest of this series and will definitely recommend this book and series to anyone looking for a wonderful laugh out loud, fall in love with all the characters book! :)
A big thank you to A.M. Hudson for writing this wonderful book and allowing me the pleasure to be one of the first readers, this review is my honest opinion and was in no way influenced by the author or anyone else! :)
The story is based around Elora, who is a character from AM Hudson's Dark Secret Series, I was extremely pleased to see this is a stand-alone book, while having previously read Dark Secrets would definitely help understand who everyone is, it's not a requirement as A.M. does a fantastic job of bringing the reader into the story line without having to have read Dark Secrets. (I personally loved Dark Secrets and would definitely recommend that series to anyone as well)
In Bound Elora is experiencing some things that make her search out answers and she amazingly finds quite a bit of answers on her own, and Elora handles everything with amazing strength and rather than getting angry at the secrets that have been kept from her, she understands why they've been kept from her and she doesn't allow circumstances to change her.
I loved how she was so strong and didn't do the whole poor me routine when she found things out, she takes it all in stride and is like "ok not a problem let's deal with it."
Elora's BFF Ali is quite funny, as well as Ric, her new friend and love interest. There are so many laugh out loud moments in this wonderful book, I loved reading the snarky banter back and forth.
I love also that this book doesn't end on a cliffhanger, it does continue the story in the next book but it is a stand-alone full novel.
I will anxiously be looking forward to reading the rest of this series and will definitely recommend this book and series to anyone looking for a wonderful laugh out loud, fall in love with all the characters book! :)
A big thank you to A.M. Hudson for writing this wonderful book and allowing me the pleasure to be one of the first readers, this review is my honest opinion and was in no way influenced by the author or anyone else! :)
March 26, 2017
Bound picks up 20 years after the end of the Dark Secrets series (not including the epilogue of Dark Secrets, which is to be read after Bound 1 & 2.. a bit confusing). Its focus is on Ava and David's daughter, Elora. Elora has been raised unaware of who she and her family are. All she knows is that she sees ghosts and has the ability to help them to rest. She was raised in the human world and has no clue why she has this gift until she meets Ric Mason. Ric Mason accidentally turns that on its head when he awakens the person she has been all along, and earlier than intended. Sending Elora right into the supernatural world her parents tried to keep her from as long as possible.
I wound up giving this book five stars after a shaky start. Trying to move into this book from Dark Secrets was difficult as it was totally different in tone which I didn't expect. But, over the course of a few chapters Elora grew on me, and I wound up liking her better than her parents. The character was refreshingly grown up and without the self-confidence issues of Ara. Granted, she lived a pretty charmed life away from it all with terrific parents so she wasn't emotionally scarred. Still, a nice change.
What really had me hooked was the return of Eric de la Rose. He was a fantastic character in Dark Secrets that was fun and a bit sleazy, but an excellent and loyal friend. That personality is still there 20 years later and it was a triumphant return. Mike and Emily also make an appearance and they're still as boring as possible. Morgana returns as well and she's creepier than I recall, but also interesting as you can finally see who she really is.
Ara and David have seemed to calm down some, although Ara still has that nasty habit of never telling anyone what she's done and then having to deal with the aftermath. They must run to their daughter, Elora, and hope that it isn't too late to explain who she is and what happens next. Unfortunately, all does not go as planned which leaves Bound on a cliffhanger and an unsure future.
But what really caught my attention is the last page mention of Jason Knight. While I've come to love Elora as well, I'm far more excited to read Bound 2 in hopes that Jason's character has recovered all that was lost when the author removed all that he was at the end of Dark Secrets. I'll be honest, I have an unhealthy attachment to this character. Part of my initial disinterest in Elora was due to the fact I skipped the mourning period of Dark Secrets and pressed on.
Book lovers, you know what I'm talking about.
A.M. Hudson's writing has improved in this one too. Very few typos this time and the story was more evenly paced and consistent. I still prefer Dark Secrets to Bound in that it made me have such an emotional response, but the writing is better here.
I wound up giving this book five stars after a shaky start. Trying to move into this book from Dark Secrets was difficult as it was totally different in tone which I didn't expect. But, over the course of a few chapters Elora grew on me, and I wound up liking her better than her parents. The character was refreshingly grown up and without the self-confidence issues of Ara. Granted, she lived a pretty charmed life away from it all with terrific parents so she wasn't emotionally scarred. Still, a nice change.
What really had me hooked was the return of Eric de la Rose. He was a fantastic character in Dark Secrets that was fun and a bit sleazy, but an excellent and loyal friend. That personality is still there 20 years later and it was a triumphant return. Mike and Emily also make an appearance and they're still as boring as possible. Morgana returns as well and she's creepier than I recall, but also interesting as you can finally see who she really is.
Ara and David have seemed to calm down some, although Ara still has that nasty habit of never telling anyone what she's done and then having to deal with the aftermath. They must run to their daughter, Elora, and hope that it isn't too late to explain who she is and what happens next. Unfortunately, all does not go as planned which leaves Bound on a cliffhanger and an unsure future.
But what really caught my attention is the last page mention of Jason Knight. While I've come to love Elora as well, I'm far more excited to read Bound 2 in hopes that Jason's character has recovered all that was lost when the author removed all that he was at the end of Dark Secrets. I'll be honest, I have an unhealthy attachment to this character. Part of my initial disinterest in Elora was due to the fact I skipped the mourning period of Dark Secrets and pressed on.
Book lovers, you know what I'm talking about.
A.M. Hudson's writing has improved in this one too. Very few typos this time and the story was more evenly paced and consistent. I still prefer Dark Secrets to Bound in that it made me have such an emotional response, but the writing is better here.
April 9, 2015
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
3.5/5
Bound is the first in the new adult paranormal romance series of the same name. I really enjoyed Bound. I thought it was a great mixture of atypical romance, lots of paranormal creatures, curses, and magic. Yes, there is a lot going on in this book. AM Hudson kept revealing new layer after new layer as the story went on. I wouldn't really call them twists, but I felt like the plot just kept getting more developed and more complex as the story evolved. It was kind of a neat story telling technique. And I loved that while Bound had a very strong romance element, it was totally unlike any romance I have been reading. Ric and Lora are not like YA and NA couples. Not at all. You will have to read the book to know what I am saying because I don't want to ruin the story. But there is no insta love in this one. Ric and Lora are a series long work in progress kind of romance. And I am really digging that about them. A lot!
After I was done reading Bound, I found out that Lora's parents have a whole series devoted to their story. I had no idea! I don't know how much it will benefit you to read their story first since we never actually met her parents in Bound, but we did see them through phone calls. I kind of liked starting with Bound first before reading her parents series because like Lora, I was kept completely in the dark with what she was and what the mystery surrounding her and her family was. And if I had read the other series first, I might have known too much to fully enjoy Bound. Maybe not, though? I would be curious to see reader's thoughts that read Lora's parents series first.
Bound was a good read. It took a while for the story to initially get going. It wasn't a slow start per say. I thought the book moved at a consistently moderate pace, but I felt like the story took a while to pick up. And there were various minute intricacies of the story that I didn't love, but overall, I thought Bound held my attention enough and was a fun enough read that I will for sure be continuing on in the series. And I really want to give A.M. Hudson's other series a read. I think I will enjoy them. Fans of New Adult paranormals and fans of paranormals that involve a whole host of creatures, the Bound series would be a great match for you.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
3.5/5
Bound is the first in the new adult paranormal romance series of the same name. I really enjoyed Bound. I thought it was a great mixture of atypical romance, lots of paranormal creatures, curses, and magic. Yes, there is a lot going on in this book. AM Hudson kept revealing new layer after new layer as the story went on. I wouldn't really call them twists, but I felt like the plot just kept getting more developed and more complex as the story evolved. It was kind of a neat story telling technique. And I loved that while Bound had a very strong romance element, it was totally unlike any romance I have been reading. Ric and Lora are not like YA and NA couples. Not at all. You will have to read the book to know what I am saying because I don't want to ruin the story. But there is no insta love in this one. Ric and Lora are a series long work in progress kind of romance. And I am really digging that about them. A lot!
After I was done reading Bound, I found out that Lora's parents have a whole series devoted to their story. I had no idea! I don't know how much it will benefit you to read their story first since we never actually met her parents in Bound, but we did see them through phone calls. I kind of liked starting with Bound first before reading her parents series because like Lora, I was kept completely in the dark with what she was and what the mystery surrounding her and her family was. And if I had read the other series first, I might have known too much to fully enjoy Bound. Maybe not, though? I would be curious to see reader's thoughts that read Lora's parents series first.
Bound was a good read. It took a while for the story to initially get going. It wasn't a slow start per say. I thought the book moved at a consistently moderate pace, but I felt like the story took a while to pick up. And there were various minute intricacies of the story that I didn't love, but overall, I thought Bound held my attention enough and was a fun enough read that I will for sure be continuing on in the series. And I really want to give A.M. Hudson's other series a read. I think I will enjoy them. Fans of New Adult paranormals and fans of paranormals that involve a whole host of creatures, the Bound series would be a great match for you.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
March 25, 2015
AM Hudson was meant to write this series.Her Dark Secret Series was just a warm up...To stretch her fingers get the flow of her key board.Dont get me wrong I LOVED every single book in that series,Echo being my all time favorite.The way the words flow through each chapter you can just tell these characters are sitting in her mind and heart begging for there story to be told.Lora will have you believing yes there are other creatures out there besides humans.She takes any info she learns and she just keeps rolling with the punches.David and Ara raised a very smart beautiful strong young lady.She is ready to take the world on.He BFF is without a doubt a true friend.They belong together like pees in a pod.Ric.....oh lord have mercy how to describe him???Hot,Funny,Full of Surprises. I love Ric!!!!! There are so many LOL moments.The story line had me turning page after page begging for more.Wonderful epic beautifully written book.I cant wait to see where this series takes us.I look forward to each book we get.If AM Hudson wrote about these characters for ever...I would always be her number 1 fan.If you have read The Dark Secret series...great but even if you have not,trust me you can dig write into this series and enjoy yet another hell of a roller coaster ride.Trust me after reading Bound you will WANT to go back and see what else she has written.Dont waste another mintute..I kinda get tired of the same old love stories told in 100 different ways.Vampire,ghosts,witches, demans is my To Get Away from the other side of reading same oh same oh.Thank you again from the bottom of my heart for letting these characters come out of you and sharing with your readers!!!
March 29, 2015
Best news ever!
Marked as "to read"
Marked as "to read"
January 15, 2016
Omg! This book blew me away! AM Hudson has managed to do it again! This book is a change to the Spin off, Dark Secrets Series. It present a more quirky, light, and fun atmosphere while still giving us an on the edge kind of read. It is very well written that manages to suck you into the story from the start.
The characters are fun loving carefree people that truly care about their friendships as they blossom. Lora is a fun loving girl that manages to still all the characters hearts as well as your own. She's a quirky girl that loves life and having a great time. She notices this boy that drives her crazy and then starts to see into his heart. She's clearly a part of her Mom and Dad(David and Ara). This book has so much details and starts a fresh beginning that you don't need to read the other series first. I am such a huge fan that I just HAVE to read all her books.
Then their is Ric a rambling soul on the road for fun and girls. Lora really sees into his soul for who he really is a beautiful soul. He also sees into hers and is drawn to her beyond what he understands. The time they spend together sets you into a light hearted mood and makes you literally at times laugh you head off!
Bound sent me through a roller coaster of emotions. I laughed through a good bit of the book but, at times I seen twist and turns that I didn't see coming causing me to hang onto to the edge of my seat. This series so far though is a more light read making it kind of refreshing. She managed to through one punch of a cliffhanger! She's talented at that though as usual. Lol. That moment I was sad and anxious wanting to know what's next! You're killing me AM Hudson! Lol.
AM Hudson takes you on a supernatural highway embarking on adventure and twist that are very different then other paranormal books. That's why it's so intriguing. Their is so much suspense and turns that you are always intrigued and never bored! I've read so many books that often you know that it's the scenario that will happen because the way the book is laid out. You can't possible tell in this book or any of her series what will happen next and I freaking LOVE IT! Way to go AM Hudson! I received this ARC for an honest review
The characters are fun loving carefree people that truly care about their friendships as they blossom. Lora is a fun loving girl that manages to still all the characters hearts as well as your own. She's a quirky girl that loves life and having a great time. She notices this boy that drives her crazy and then starts to see into his heart. She's clearly a part of her Mom and Dad(David and Ara). This book has so much details and starts a fresh beginning that you don't need to read the other series first. I am such a huge fan that I just HAVE to read all her books.
Then their is Ric a rambling soul on the road for fun and girls. Lora really sees into his soul for who he really is a beautiful soul. He also sees into hers and is drawn to her beyond what he understands. The time they spend together sets you into a light hearted mood and makes you literally at times laugh you head off!
Bound sent me through a roller coaster of emotions. I laughed through a good bit of the book but, at times I seen twist and turns that I didn't see coming causing me to hang onto to the edge of my seat. This series so far though is a more light read making it kind of refreshing. She managed to through one punch of a cliffhanger! She's talented at that though as usual. Lol. That moment I was sad and anxious wanting to know what's next! You're killing me AM Hudson! Lol.
AM Hudson takes you on a supernatural highway embarking on adventure and twist that are very different then other paranormal books. That's why it's so intriguing. Their is so much suspense and turns that you are always intrigued and never bored! I've read so many books that often you know that it's the scenario that will happen because the way the book is laid out. You can't possible tell in this book or any of her series what will happen next and I freaking LOVE IT! Way to go AM Hudson! I received this ARC for an honest review
March 26, 2015
I was given an ARC of Bound in exchange for an honest review.
Bound is a very well written and attention grabbing book with relatable characters. Once you start, you won’t want to put it down!
We start with Lora, who is very witty and fun. I just loved her almost instantly. She’s a good balance of both her mother and father. (If you’ve read the Dark Secrets Series, you’ll see what I mean. If not, it’s okay! Read this anyway. You won’t be missing crucial details to the plot or anything.)
Then we go to Ric, who is an absolute ass. A very adorable, you can’t help but love him even though you really want to smack him sometimes, ass. He and Lora have some fun and amusing conversations that you won’t want to miss.
While reading Bound, I went through the collage of emotions that I usually do when reading a book by A.M. Hudson. I laughed a lot through this book, had a few ‘oh snap’ and ‘oh my’ moments; I was nervous at times and even sad. All the feels get pulled out through Hudson’s writing and it’s always one heck of a ride! I can’t wait for the other books in this series!
Hudson’s take on the supernatural world is different than most, and easy to follow if you pay attention. The vampires don’t sparkle and werewolves don’t shift at the full moon to ravage towns. It goes way deeper than that and her way of thinking leaves you wanting more. So if you’re tired of the same ole books, with the same plot twists and predictable moments/endings, you should definitely give Bound a try!!! (& if you love Bound as much I think you will-go ahead and pick up The Dark Secrets Series too! It's also outstanding! <3)
Bound is a very well written and attention grabbing book with relatable characters. Once you start, you won’t want to put it down!
We start with Lora, who is very witty and fun. I just loved her almost instantly. She’s a good balance of both her mother and father. (If you’ve read the Dark Secrets Series, you’ll see what I mean. If not, it’s okay! Read this anyway. You won’t be missing crucial details to the plot or anything.)
Then we go to Ric, who is an absolute ass. A very adorable, you can’t help but love him even though you really want to smack him sometimes, ass. He and Lora have some fun and amusing conversations that you won’t want to miss.
While reading Bound, I went through the collage of emotions that I usually do when reading a book by A.M. Hudson. I laughed a lot through this book, had a few ‘oh snap’ and ‘oh my’ moments; I was nervous at times and even sad. All the feels get pulled out through Hudson’s writing and it’s always one heck of a ride! I can’t wait for the other books in this series!
Hudson’s take on the supernatural world is different than most, and easy to follow if you pay attention. The vampires don’t sparkle and werewolves don’t shift at the full moon to ravage towns. It goes way deeper than that and her way of thinking leaves you wanting more. So if you’re tired of the same ole books, with the same plot twists and predictable moments/endings, you should definitely give Bound a try!!! (& if you love Bound as much I think you will-go ahead and pick up The Dark Secrets Series too! It's also outstanding! <3)
March 25, 2015
I received an ARC of Bound from Author A.M. Hudson in exchange for an honest review. I have read her previous Dark Secrets Series and ,quite frankly, felt like I had won the lottery when I was picked. I was a bit nervous going into reading it, considering I had such high expectations, since I loved the Dark Secrets Series so much.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! Once I started reading it, I could NOT put it down. Literally. The story follows Elora, grown daughter of David and Ara Knight from the Dark Secrets Series. The magnificent thing about this book is that it can be read with or without having read the prior books. Personally, I found that it gave the story more depth and enjoyment knowing who some of the characters were.
Bound is fresh and brand-new. I love A.M. Hudson because she is original when it comes to her ideas and writing style. I love this genre, but find that I can get halfway through a book and stop reading. You know the old saying, "same church, different pew". This is so NOT the case with Ms. Hudson! Bound's characters have you feeling everything they feel...laughing when they laugh, and crying when they cry....the world she has created leaves so many possibilities....anything can happen. I appreciate a series that keeps you guessing and surprised. This is definitely going to be one of those.
You NEED to give this book a chance, you will not be disappointed. I was blown away! And you will be too. I cannot wait for the second book. I will be waiting, very, very impatiently.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! Once I started reading it, I could NOT put it down. Literally. The story follows Elora, grown daughter of David and Ara Knight from the Dark Secrets Series. The magnificent thing about this book is that it can be read with or without having read the prior books. Personally, I found that it gave the story more depth and enjoyment knowing who some of the characters were.
Bound is fresh and brand-new. I love A.M. Hudson because she is original when it comes to her ideas and writing style. I love this genre, but find that I can get halfway through a book and stop reading. You know the old saying, "same church, different pew". This is so NOT the case with Ms. Hudson! Bound's characters have you feeling everything they feel...laughing when they laugh, and crying when they cry....the world she has created leaves so many possibilities....anything can happen. I appreciate a series that keeps you guessing and surprised. This is definitely going to be one of those.
You NEED to give this book a chance, you will not be disappointed. I was blown away! And you will be too. I cannot wait for the second book. I will be waiting, very, very impatiently.
September 9, 2017
This book was a wicked fun read! I loved getting to know Elora. She was an interesting main character. She had a fiery temper and a deep sense of loyalty to her family and best friend.
Ali was also a great best friend. I enjoyed her personality and how much she trusted Elora. I have to say that I hated Bas, but I'm pretty sure he was written that way..lol.
The mysteries to the story unraveled in such a way that by the end, all the pieces pulled together giving you a picture of who Elora was, her family background and who Ric really was to her.
I really didn't like Ric at first. He rubbed me the wrong way and I found myself hoping he wasn't the love interest. Then as his relationship with Elora evolved and I learned of his identity, I softened to the idea. His character could be redeemed it appeared.
Hmm... the ending to the book left me with mixed emotions. I loved some of the results, but others really made me confused and disappointed. I know there are two more books, but this one just felt like more of a paranormal/urban fantasy and not really a romance book.
Overall this book rocked like the authors other series. I look forward to reading more of Elora's journey in the following two books. There's so much more to learn about her heritage and how everyone meshes. This installment gets four glittery stars for it's wonderful spin-off of the Dark Secrets series.
Ali was also a great best friend. I enjoyed her personality and how much she trusted Elora. I have to say that I hated Bas, but I'm pretty sure he was written that way..lol.
The mysteries to the story unraveled in such a way that by the end, all the pieces pulled together giving you a picture of who Elora was, her family background and who Ric really was to her.
I really didn't like Ric at first. He rubbed me the wrong way and I found myself hoping he wasn't the love interest. Then as his relationship with Elora evolved and I learned of his identity, I softened to the idea. His character could be redeemed it appeared.
Hmm... the ending to the book left me with mixed emotions. I loved some of the results, but others really made me confused and disappointed. I know there are two more books, but this one just felt like more of a paranormal/urban fantasy and not really a romance book.
Overall this book rocked like the authors other series. I look forward to reading more of Elora's journey in the following two books. There's so much more to learn about her heritage and how everyone meshes. This installment gets four glittery stars for it's wonderful spin-off of the Dark Secrets series.
April 7, 2015
Having loved the Dark Secrets Series, I knew I would love this new series as well, but I had no idea just how much! You wouldn't have to read the original to be able to pick this up and completely enjoy it and not be lost either, but it does make all the little extra bits seem like a little inside secret.
Elora is living in Australia, working for Mike, her mom's best friend. She's young and having fun, not ready to settle down, and slowly beginning to enjoy the back and forth banter between her and Ric, while she helps lost ghosts find peace in her off time from the cafe she works at.
Knowing nothing about her true heritage, or Ric`s true life, Elora soon finds herself in a lot of danger and a lot farther in the supernatural world than she ever really imagined, though there were those three years when she was little that she was convinced her dad was a vampire. And why is Ric asking if her real surname is Knight?
Oh and I just love that it's not so sweetly ya too! It's fun and sexy and so normal!
Elora is living in Australia, working for Mike, her mom's best friend. She's young and having fun, not ready to settle down, and slowly beginning to enjoy the back and forth banter between her and Ric, while she helps lost ghosts find peace in her off time from the cafe she works at.
Knowing nothing about her true heritage, or Ric`s true life, Elora soon finds herself in a lot of danger and a lot farther in the supernatural world than she ever really imagined, though there were those three years when she was little that she was convinced her dad was a vampire. And why is Ric asking if her real surname is Knight?
Oh and I just love that it's not so sweetly ya too! It's fun and sexy and so normal!
March 23, 2015
This is a great book by AM Hudson! She took a completely different view point for this exciting new series as a spin off of Dark Secrets Series. It will throw you for a few loops, but a completely great story line. It is more of an adult read & the setting in is the "future" of her last series, which made it even more interesting and SO hard to put the book down... I pulled an all-nighter just to read the book! The Aussie language threw me quite a few times, but I figured it out & absolutely loved it. (I had received a free copy for an honest review.) T.Dixon
March 23, 2015
I received a Arc copy of this book for an honest review. I have to say this is probably one of my favorite books I have read of A.M Hudson, I loved the Dark secret series,and was so excited when she said she was doing a spin off to tell the story of the daughter Elora from Dark Secrets . I couldn't put this book down It pulls you in from the beginning. I was happy to see some of my favorite characters from Dark Secrets to appear in this book. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Thank you for giving us another great story!!!!!
Amber Wyatt :-)
Thank you for giving us another great story!!!!!
Amber Wyatt :-)
March 23, 2015
I was selected to be part of the review team. This book did not disappoint!!! It was a great read that made you keep turning the page yearning for more!! I loved ALL
of the Dark Secrets books and feel this was the perfect introduction to Elora's journey. There was a lot of backstory information given which made it easy to follow and it just flowed so well!!!! Cannot wait for the 2nd book in this series!!
of the Dark Secrets books and feel this was the perfect introduction to Elora's journey. There was a lot of backstory information given which made it easy to follow and it just flowed so well!!!! Cannot wait for the 2nd book in this series!!
March 22, 2015
I was chosen to be an arc for A. M Hudson's new book bound and i highly recommend this book to everyone it is a fantastic read. leaves you in suspense. it is the start to her new series about elora i cannot wait for the next book.
June 28, 2015
I dont know why it is rated almost 5 stars.
I did not finish it.
I did not finish it.
December 5, 2018
When I first read the story, I find myself starting fresh by getting to know Elora's personality, her circle of friends as well as the Aussie slang. But because I've read the dark secret series, the others revelation that's coming didn't surprise me anymore. I was way more interested in finding out the welfare of the other characters from the previous book, especially Jason. But unfortunately, there's nothing much about them in this book, and Jason's name only surfaced at the end of the story. However, knowing that Elora's heading back to the manor, and therefore will be meeting up with the old gangs, I can't wait to start reading Bound 2.
June 27, 2017
I love that with this series you could have stopped with Echoes 2, but this definitely makes a very nice continuation/ spinoff. I love who Ara chose to be Elora's soulmate! He was definitely one of my picks! I also love how much Elora's life is mirroring her mother's a bit. I say a bit because she is a few human years older than a Ara when she was turned. Of course she didn't have to go through all that crap with spirit bind and such, but it was still cool how it was written to show their similarities as well as their differences.
June 14, 2025
I was so happy to start seeing old characters, but despite that, I loved that over half the book was just about Elora. Being able to see the same elements through different characters was pretty cool too. She is a good character, very different than Ara, and I was highly pleased.
June 17, 2017
Good YA fiction. Plot is decent and characters are fairly well developed. I didn't expect as much paranormal fiction to be included in the narrative. It was a pleasant surprise.
April 22, 2018
Wow!
This was a nice spin off to the main series. It could be read as a stand alone, but for sure is better read after the main series. I’m looking forward to the next one!
This was a nice spin off to the main series. It could be read as a stand alone, but for sure is better read after the main series. I’m looking forward to the next one!
August 9, 2018
Hmm
This book seems shorter than the previous series books were. I’m actually a little confused. Towards the end things seemed a little too easy.
This book seems shorter than the previous series books were. I’m actually a little confused. Towards the end things seemed a little too easy.
September 9, 2019
Amazing read
March 8, 2022
I actually struggled with the start of this book as I found it wee bit boring and repeative but I persisted and I am so glad I did it turned out to be another great book on to bound 2
April 7, 2015
I received this book from the author and Paranormal Romance & Authors That Rock for an honest review.
Bound is a wonderful book that is apart of AM Hudson’s Dark Secret series, and since this is the first book that I have read from the series, I can say that she did a wonderful job making this book able to stand alone like it’s own novel. I’m pretty sure the book, characters and even some of the events that happened within this book would make a lot more sense if people read the beginning of the series first, but it’s not a necessity since the book does a great job explaining some things, which is something to applaud Hudson for.
This book is about Elora, daughter of Ara and David who are characters from a previous book in the series, and her experiences coming into the world her parents belonged to, which is a world they tried to hide from her until it was her time. Lora starts off as a normal twenty-one year old who works at her uncles café in Australia, lives in an apartment upstairs from her job with her best friend Ali, and enjoys her young life hanging out with friends. Occasionally she would help a ghost here and there send messages to loved ones so they could cross over, but her involvement into the supernatural ended there. It isn’t until a dark force threatens her life that she learns that her parents have been keeping secrets from her, secrets about her life in the supernatural world and the fact that she isn’t a normal human. In fact, she isn’t human at all. A lot of secrets are exposed, which only leaves Lora with more questions than answers, but for Lora, it’s not such a shock to find out what her life really is, and she looks forward to the answers she seeks.
The book ends with a cliffhanger, leaving the readers eager to know what will happen next for Lora, which makes us all want to get the next installment. I must say that I had fun reading this book. It was really funny and enjoyable, even with all the drama and near death experiences, and it was heartfelt. I enjoyed a lot of the characters in this book, even the ones that had little roles to play, because they all had personalities that drew you to them. Especially Ali and Ric Mason, Lora’s love interest. Ali reminds me of my best friend. She is a true ride-or-die friend, and would walk to the ends of the Earth and the fiery gates of Hell with Lora if it were called for. Plus she’s smart, sweet, funny, and caring. Who wouldn’t love her? Ric is a playboy who loves his self greatly. He loves to tease Lora, which annoys her greatly, but he can be really sweet, funny and caring. I loved the developing relationship between Lora and Ric. They have a love-to-hate relationship in the beginning that turns into like, and then more than like. But we never get to see if it can turn into anything more within this book, but since Ric belongs to the world of the supernatural too, I know their relationship will be explored and develop more as the series continue.
I truly enjoyed this book, which made me get the rest of the series so I wouldn’t miss a thing, and I look forward to the next installment with high hopes. Bound gets 5 fangs from me! AM Hudson did a fantastic job with this amazing book, and I recommend it to any paranormal/supernatural fan knowing that they will not be disappointed.
Bound is a wonderful book that is apart of AM Hudson’s Dark Secret series, and since this is the first book that I have read from the series, I can say that she did a wonderful job making this book able to stand alone like it’s own novel. I’m pretty sure the book, characters and even some of the events that happened within this book would make a lot more sense if people read the beginning of the series first, but it’s not a necessity since the book does a great job explaining some things, which is something to applaud Hudson for.
This book is about Elora, daughter of Ara and David who are characters from a previous book in the series, and her experiences coming into the world her parents belonged to, which is a world they tried to hide from her until it was her time. Lora starts off as a normal twenty-one year old who works at her uncles café in Australia, lives in an apartment upstairs from her job with her best friend Ali, and enjoys her young life hanging out with friends. Occasionally she would help a ghost here and there send messages to loved ones so they could cross over, but her involvement into the supernatural ended there. It isn’t until a dark force threatens her life that she learns that her parents have been keeping secrets from her, secrets about her life in the supernatural world and the fact that she isn’t a normal human. In fact, she isn’t human at all. A lot of secrets are exposed, which only leaves Lora with more questions than answers, but for Lora, it’s not such a shock to find out what her life really is, and she looks forward to the answers she seeks.
The book ends with a cliffhanger, leaving the readers eager to know what will happen next for Lora, which makes us all want to get the next installment. I must say that I had fun reading this book. It was really funny and enjoyable, even with all the drama and near death experiences, and it was heartfelt. I enjoyed a lot of the characters in this book, even the ones that had little roles to play, because they all had personalities that drew you to them. Especially Ali and Ric Mason, Lora’s love interest. Ali reminds me of my best friend. She is a true ride-or-die friend, and would walk to the ends of the Earth and the fiery gates of Hell with Lora if it were called for. Plus she’s smart, sweet, funny, and caring. Who wouldn’t love her? Ric is a playboy who loves his self greatly. He loves to tease Lora, which annoys her greatly, but he can be really sweet, funny and caring. I loved the developing relationship between Lora and Ric. They have a love-to-hate relationship in the beginning that turns into like, and then more than like. But we never get to see if it can turn into anything more within this book, but since Ric belongs to the world of the supernatural too, I know their relationship will be explored and develop more as the series continue.
I truly enjoyed this book, which made me get the rest of the series so I wouldn’t miss a thing, and I look forward to the next installment with high hopes. Bound gets 5 fangs from me! AM Hudson did a fantastic job with this amazing book, and I recommend it to any paranormal/supernatural fan knowing that they will not be disappointed.
March 25, 2015
I received an ARC of Bound from A.M Hudson in exchange for an honest review.
Bound is a spinoff series from Dark Secrets Series about a girl named Elora who lives in Australia and has the ability to speak to spirits. Throughout the story, Elora shrugs off the fact that she can not only speak to spirits but help them cross over; however she just assumes its a cool gift she has similar to others being good at sports. She soon learns that the gift that she has links her to the supernatural world in a big way that she is now quickly becoming a part of. Along the way, a guy named 'Ric' a moody, crass guy a few years her senior (that both irritates her and excites her at the same time - typical bad boy that turns you on)comes into the picture and becomes a constant throughout. Readers are introduced to a little of Elora's background and family which does help to fill in some of the blanks.
This book offers plenty of danger and excitement, insight and mystery all at the same time, and let's not forget the love scenes along the way. Whether you have previously read the Dark Secrets Series or not, you will not be lost in translation in this book. Of course if you had read the series prior to this, you may have a little more understanding, but I am sure our wonderful author will fill in the blanks along the way to help those who may be a little out of the loop.
While the book leaves you hanging,it is such a good story that you may just decide to read it again just to see what you may have missed at the beginning. Although the story ended too soon for my liking, I felt it deserved a full 5 stars as it didn't dissapoint. I honestly cannot wait for the next installment of this series to begin. Thank you again A.M for writing such amazing books and getting this insight into your imagination. Bravo.
Bound is a spinoff series from Dark Secrets Series about a girl named Elora who lives in Australia and has the ability to speak to spirits. Throughout the story, Elora shrugs off the fact that she can not only speak to spirits but help them cross over; however she just assumes its a cool gift she has similar to others being good at sports. She soon learns that the gift that she has links her to the supernatural world in a big way that she is now quickly becoming a part of. Along the way, a guy named 'Ric' a moody, crass guy a few years her senior (that both irritates her and excites her at the same time - typical bad boy that turns you on)comes into the picture and becomes a constant throughout. Readers are introduced to a little of Elora's background and family which does help to fill in some of the blanks.
This book offers plenty of danger and excitement, insight and mystery all at the same time, and let's not forget the love scenes along the way. Whether you have previously read the Dark Secrets Series or not, you will not be lost in translation in this book. Of course if you had read the series prior to this, you may have a little more understanding, but I am sure our wonderful author will fill in the blanks along the way to help those who may be a little out of the loop.
While the book leaves you hanging,it is such a good story that you may just decide to read it again just to see what you may have missed at the beginning. Although the story ended too soon for my liking, I felt it deserved a full 5 stars as it didn't dissapoint. I honestly cannot wait for the next installment of this series to begin. Thank you again A.M for writing such amazing books and getting this insight into your imagination. Bravo.
August 12, 2015
What can I say about this book and this series. It's a head scratcher for sure. I had to reread many paragraphs to understand what was happening.
It's a complicated twisted story of Elora and her royal family of vampires, witches, searers, empathics and that's the easy bit! Elora is a princess of Lilithian, which is a paranormal Kingdom which the queen and king are missing presumed dead after a plane crash. The story then follows Elora battle to learn skills she didn't know she had and to find her parents. Ok that's the story I understood. Through out the book there is a background story of other people's souls being planted in to babies when they are born thus allowing the orginal owner of the soul to be immortal. I found this to be totally confusing and at time detracting from the main story.
I loved the idea of Elora and the battle to find and rescue her parents. That part fitted really well and flowed nicely. I could see all the paranormal aspects working well together, and that would be enough for me to enjoy the story and love it. However add all of the soul jumping and I'll be honest it confused the heck out of me.
A M Hudson has written a great series which includes all the paranormal types you can think off and has woven a totally unique story. I would strongly recommended that you read book one and then book two straight away. They aren't stand alone books. If you enjoy in depth books that work on different levels within a book then this is definitely for you. The second book more so than the first. I would look at the author again as I did like her style and the book is beautifully edited, I can't fault the author at all - it was just a little to complicated for my tired shift working brain. However it is still a 4 star read.
It's a complicated twisted story of Elora and her royal family of vampires, witches, searers, empathics and that's the easy bit! Elora is a princess of Lilithian, which is a paranormal Kingdom which the queen and king are missing presumed dead after a plane crash. The story then follows Elora battle to learn skills she didn't know she had and to find her parents. Ok that's the story I understood. Through out the book there is a background story of other people's souls being planted in to babies when they are born thus allowing the orginal owner of the soul to be immortal. I found this to be totally confusing and at time detracting from the main story.
I loved the idea of Elora and the battle to find and rescue her parents. That part fitted really well and flowed nicely. I could see all the paranormal aspects working well together, and that would be enough for me to enjoy the story and love it. However add all of the soul jumping and I'll be honest it confused the heck out of me.
A M Hudson has written a great series which includes all the paranormal types you can think off and has woven a totally unique story. I would strongly recommended that you read book one and then book two straight away. They aren't stand alone books. If you enjoy in depth books that work on different levels within a book then this is definitely for you. The second book more so than the first. I would look at the author again as I did like her style and the book is beautifully edited, I can't fault the author at all - it was just a little to complicated for my tired shift working brain. However it is still a 4 star read.
April 1, 2015
I was very excited about Bound. I loved the Dark Secrets Series. Loved it. So, I was thrilled to jump back into this world... but it wasn't quite what I was expecting.
Don't get me wrong!!! I enjoyed Bound and read it quickly, but I don't think I should have read it so soon after Silence.
I'm excited to read the next book. To see where this story takes us. I may have had some issues while reading this, but they were mostly mine. The story itself was good and I WILL continue reading. A.M Hudson is a fabulous author and I'm a very big fan.
Thank you Angie for continuing this story and for keeping us in this world without it being exactly the same!
Don't get me wrong!!! I enjoyed Bound and read it quickly, but I don't think I should have read it so soon after Silence.
I'm excited to read the next book. To see where this story takes us. I may have had some issues while reading this, but they were mostly mine. The story itself was good and I WILL continue reading. A.M Hudson is a fabulous author and I'm a very big fan.
Thank you Angie for continuing this story and for keeping us in this world without it being exactly the same!
July 20, 2015
Absolutely LOVE this Book!
This author is new to me and absolutely AMAZING! Her writing is brilliant and dragged me into the story immediately and carried along on a fast paced adventure right along with the characters. The story is packed full of fun, emotions, laughter, adventure, and unsuspected twists. This story is so multidimensional and intriguing that I could not put it down. I read a LOT of paranormal everything and this was really new, I haven't read anything quite like it. It was fresh and unique and very addicting. I am completely hooked. This book is a standalone but is the beginning of a series and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book! Apparently if you've read Dark Secrets by this author, you will be more familiar with the back story, but I was told that it wasn't necessary in order to read this book. I fully intend to read that as well but honestly there was no sense that I was missing anything. You really get a full story and full picture although are left with many questions coaxing you towards the next book in the series, and a cliffhanger that will steal the breath right from your chest. I haven't said this more than a couple of times in all of the many, many books that I've read and all of the reviews that I've written but I was completely blown away by this story. I was gifted a copy of this book for an honest review.
This author is new to me and absolutely AMAZING! Her writing is brilliant and dragged me into the story immediately and carried along on a fast paced adventure right along with the characters. The story is packed full of fun, emotions, laughter, adventure, and unsuspected twists. This story is so multidimensional and intriguing that I could not put it down. I read a LOT of paranormal everything and this was really new, I haven't read anything quite like it. It was fresh and unique and very addicting. I am completely hooked. This book is a standalone but is the beginning of a series and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book! Apparently if you've read Dark Secrets by this author, you will be more familiar with the back story, but I was told that it wasn't necessary in order to read this book. I fully intend to read that as well but honestly there was no sense that I was missing anything. You really get a full story and full picture although are left with many questions coaxing you towards the next book in the series, and a cliffhanger that will steal the breath right from your chest. I haven't said this more than a couple of times in all of the many, many books that I've read and all of the reviews that I've written but I was completely blown away by this story. I was gifted a copy of this book for an honest review.
January 19, 2016
I loved this story! Elora is ten million times better as a main character than her mom, Ara, EVER was! She's more mature (granted, she is older than her mom when Dark Secrets started) and makes much better decisions. I love watching her and Ric fall in love. There's so much I want to say about this book, but I don't want to spoil anything for those who haven't read the Dark Series series. I need to go find a group discussion now, because I have too many questions about possible scenarios.
I also wanted to say that I felt this story was much better at leaving out unnecessary plots, conversations, and thoughts. It was a much easier, and ultimately more enjoyable, read than most of the Dark Secrets books. I almost feel bad for those who will go back and read that series after reading this story. Although I truly did thoroughly enjoy the DS series and would recommend it for the overall story, I would cry if I had to go back and read the first book again. If there were cliff notes to that book, I'd recommend going that route and skipping to the second book.
I also wanted to say that I felt this story was much better at leaving out unnecessary plots, conversations, and thoughts. It was a much easier, and ultimately more enjoyable, read than most of the Dark Secrets books. I almost feel bad for those who will go back and read that series after reading this story. Although I truly did thoroughly enjoy the DS series and would recommend it for the overall story, I would cry if I had to go back and read the first book again. If there were cliff notes to that book, I'd recommend going that route and skipping to the second book.
April 4, 2015
I had the honor of receiving an ARC copy of Bound by A.M. Hudson for an honest review. Bound can be read as a standalone starter for a new series but I encourage you to read her Dark Secrets Series as well. You will fall in love with her writing and learn to love and hate her characters as many others have.
Elora is a young woman with an affinity for speaking to the dead. She helps those she can get peace and move on into the afterlife. With many secrets following who she is and what she is, Elora will discover the truth of her family and her immortality. Discover her connection to Ric, a cocky, self-loving co-worker with a voice of gold that has a questionable history with her parents.
In this new spin off you get to welcome new characters to the expanding world Hudson has created along with getting to see how characters from Dark Secrets have grown and changed. As a huge fan of The Dark Secret Series it was nice to see old friends and meet a new generation to the mix. This book exceeded my expectations and has me waiting once again for the next book to come out. Enjoy!
Elora is a young woman with an affinity for speaking to the dead. She helps those she can get peace and move on into the afterlife. With many secrets following who she is and what she is, Elora will discover the truth of her family and her immortality. Discover her connection to Ric, a cocky, self-loving co-worker with a voice of gold that has a questionable history with her parents.
In this new spin off you get to welcome new characters to the expanding world Hudson has created along with getting to see how characters from Dark Secrets have grown and changed. As a huge fan of The Dark Secret Series it was nice to see old friends and meet a new generation to the mix. This book exceeded my expectations and has me waiting once again for the next book to come out. Enjoy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews