Blood Bound

Blackthorn #7

by Lindsay J. Pryor

Love can be heaven. Or it can hurt like hell.

For exiled angel Jessie, falling for Eden Reece has been her salvation. When she discovers that her angel tears, used to heal Eden, are actually poisoning him the burden of guilt is crushing.

Jessie is determined to make things right and, with Eden by her side, they are a formidable team. But with Blackthorn surrounded by an impenetrable barrier and the army of Sirius Throme closing in, their mission is a desperate one. When Jessie discovers they are up against her own kind too, it looks impossible.

Eden and Jessie don’t just need a cure, they need a way out – and have less than 48 hours to find both.

Eden will fight to the last to protect Jessie, but when they are captured and separated, demons from his past return to haunt him. Suddenly, Jessie is forced to question everything she knows about the man she loves.

Yet the most shattering twist is still to come. Because what you care about most can be your biggest weakness.

For Blackthorn to survive, either Jessie or Eden will have to make the greatest sacrifice of all…

The thrilling penultimate story in the Blackthorn series will leave you breathless.

What readers are saying about Lindsay J. Pryor…
‘I don’t think I have read such a finely executed dark PNR world before…This series truly surprised me. I didn’t think I would love it that much or be intrigued by it. I couldn’t stop thinking about these books once I was done with them… The world-building is spectacular. The characters are enthralling and addicting… Plain fabulousness.’ Gaga Over Books

‘I am completely enthralled with this paranormal series. You get so wrapped up in the story and characters that you lose track of time… This is one of my favorite series so far this year!’ Paranormal Book Club

‘This is a paranormal universe like none you have encountered before… There are stories that are so powerful, so intense that I do not believe anyone should warn you about what is to come… I truly do feel that if you love the Paranormal genre and have not yet discovered Lindsay J. Pryor or these novels then you need to read them, experience them firsthand.’ Keeper Bookshelf

‘I am officially addicted to this series. Why, you ask? Because Lindsay Pryor is my kind of fearless author. She isn’t afraid to “go there”, to create characters and situations that challenge me as a reader.’ The Demon Librarian

‘Not only are Pryor’s characters and fathomlessly dark love stories fabulous, but her continual world building of Blackthorn blows me away.’ Gravetells.com

‘If you’re looking for a new PNR series that has a dark world and complicated characters, then you’ll want to grab a copy of this. I can’t wait to read the next book.’ FictionVixen.com

‘She writes paranormal romance mixed with urban fantasy the way I like it – clever world-building, intense characters and no easy options for them to take.’ Nocturnal Book Reviews

The Blackthorn series reading order:
1. BLOOD SHADOWS
2. BLOOD ROSES
3. BLOOD TORN
4. BLOOD DEEP
5.

Genres: Paranormal Romance, Paranormal, Fantasy, Vampires, Dystopia, Romance, Angels

346 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 21, 2016

About the author

Sign up to be the first to hear about Lindsay's NEW releases here: http://bit.ly/150twsa

*Lindsay is not an active Goodreads user. Please visit her website if you would like to contact her.*

Lindsay J. Pryor is a speculative fiction author published by Hachette U.K. Her dark, gritty and complex dystopian BLACKTHORN series has achieved numerous Gothic and PNR Amazon number ones both in the UK and the US. Her spin-off LOWTOWN standalone novels are underway as well as her upcoming romantic Gothic horror.

Quickly deciding that fantasy was more interesting than reality, Lindsay has been creating stories since she was nine years old. She holds a BSc (Hons) degree in Psychology and Communication and is a qualified Psychology lecturer and English teacher. She taught for eighteen years before becoming a full-time author.

Lindsay was born and grew up in Wales and now lives in South West England with her husband and a plethora of wild woodland creatures.
To find out more about Lindsay and her books, please visit her website: lindsayjpryor.com

BLACKTHORN is published by Bookouture. Her LOWTOWN novels are being published by Piatkus (Little, Brown Book Group).

I absolutely adore the world she's put into place here. Everything is so well formed with its own history and culture that it really feels like I'm living in Blackthorn... (Marked by Books)

This is a paranormal universe like none you have encountered before. (Keeper Bookshelf)

I don't think I have read such a finely executed dark PNR world before... The world-building is spectacular. (Gaga Over Books)

Lindsay Pryor has crafted a world that's intricate, gritty and genuinely fascinating... (Big Little Sister Blog)

This concept is creative and different from other paranormal books I've read lately. (My Paranormal Book Review)

I cannot say how much I love this author. She is creating a world which sucks you in, which makes you want to know more about Blackthorn and its inhabitants. (I Heart Books)

Not only are Pryor's characters and fathomlessly dark love stories fabulous, but her continual world building of Blackthorn blows me away. (Gravetells)

Lindsay is a wonderful writer. She's crafted one heck of a world... (Vice President of Creative Affairs for Relativity Media Film Studios, California)

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ Stars!!!
Re-read 5/25/2019
Finally finished re-reading this whole series so I could be nice and fresh for the final book that just came out! I’m so excited and sad that it’s almost over.

5 Stars!
This is one of my favorite PNR book series!! I can't get enough of it! Witches, vampires, wolf shifters, Angels and more! It's full of action, love and plenty of suspense. It will have you on the edge of your seat one minute and fanning yourself the next! It's rare I read a series and love every damn book! This is one of them! I can't wait until the final book comes out next and I'm here to tell you that it's probably going to be the best one yet!!! I hope I don't have to wait a year!

[daemyra, the realm's delight · Rating 5 out of 5]

2022 Reread:

The FORESHADOWING. How was I tearing up in the first few chapters? Eden and Jessie are perfect for each other. But also the foreshadowing of, will we get our happy ending? Like Lindsay was thinking of it even here 😔 Reading this still hurts. What they put Eden and Jessie through is sick 😩 but their love and how they have these little moments of not breaking and fighting for each other 🥹 It was easier to reread it since I knew what to prepare myself.

Enjoying my reread as I want to feel all the feels. Still too scared to ever reread the final book 😗

INITIAL THOUGHTS 10/23/21

This book broke me into PIECES!!! Books 5–8 so far have cranked up the stakes, I thought Jask and Phia’s bind was too much… I honestly don’t know how Lindsay J. Pryor does it but Eden and Jessie’s story was too much for me to take. Crying at the Honey tattoo-Mya. Bawling for Eden 😭😭😭😭😭😭

But that epilogue tho… Caleb and Leila and Eden and Jessie are my favourite couples!!

RTC

FULL REVIEW 10/27/21

Image of Me Finishing Blood Bound:



I can't even review Blood Bound because let me just say this book is going to rip your heart into pieces. You liked Eden going undercover in Blood Deep and you want more and think a little amnesia is going to add some spicy tension to your favourite human-envoi couple? Lindsay J. Pryor said hold my beer, because she is going hard. She did not have to go this hard but I love her so much for it, even if the intensity has permanently warped my soul.

Blood Bound needs to come with a warning, side effects come with trauma.

Anyone complaining about fluffy romances - read Blood Bound.

Or maybe don't.

Because I was in the throes of it for my man, Eden. Eden legitimately underwent trauma, and the poor guy doesn't even have time to rebound because the literal end of the world is happening in the next book. And Jessie! To witness it all. So strong. So painful to see her partner wiped of memory, to see the man that he might have turned into, before he had his family to give him hope.

In Book 4, Eden is the one who wants to save Jessie from her prison. He is the one with the Ace in his cards. Jessie doesn't know, can't even know what's to come. In book 7, Jessie is the one who sees Eden, and it is Eden that is being manipulated, in a situation where he is the one who is powerless. And she is the one who could easily save herself and abandon him or risk both of their lives in order to save him. And of course, she will fight to save him. She is the one who is going to be strong enough for him. And this is what makes Blood Bound so excellent, but also so hard to read.

This ending tho. I honestly did not know if Eden and Jessie were going to make it out alive. If I thought Blood Instinct was cutting it close? Blood Bound was like, let me see if I can't get y'all to squirm a little bit longer on the hook...

One thing. The characterization of Tatum. I respect it. I don't like her, and I don't respect her, but I respect the treatment of Tatum. She was the only one out of the criminals who, it's not necessarily sympathy for her that the reader gets but an understanding of how someone can be treated inhumanely for so long that this is how they will treat others.

The class struggles were well executed. You do not sympathize for the criminals because interestingly enough, aside from Eden who almost could have been part of that criminal class, there are no criminals that are redeemable.

If they are all happy in cut-throat violence, Lindsay J. Pryor makes a case for how they are treated like trash by the system - sent to Blackthorn with a microchip set to detonate if they ever cross the border!! Pryor shows how their resentment is magnified because they know they are human with a soul ergo "better" than third species with a shadow. If the rich humans have forgotten their existence, the third species have taken their town, Blackthorn. There is class analysis that I could go further on about.

An unbelievably excellent book. 5 bleeding hearts out of 5 bleeding hearts.

Read the whole Blackthorn series in order, but read this if you especially need a romance to make you feel things again.

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was kindly gifted an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Heartbreaking and jaw dropping!!!

I'm going to start at the beginning for me, there's been some tension building on social media, a lot of anxious folks nervously awaiting the fate of Eden and Jessie. I'm going to admit, I wasn't one of them. I love drama and I love getting emotional. Anyone that knows me, knows that is why I read books. Eden for me has been like the love I didn't know I was missing and I had every faith he'd come through. I was absolutely resolute in that.

After reading Blood Bound, I can honestly say that I have been put through the ringer. Lindsay certainly knows how to work her readers. There has to be a little bit of depravity and evil inside of her to put her readers through the emotional turmoil. This being in the nicest possible way, of course.

So in Blood Bound, its Eden Reece and Jessie's turn in the spotlight. Jessie being an envoi. (angel) Eden being human and an ex CEO, who if you remember was given Jessie's angel tears to save his life in Blood Deep.

I don't want to give away any spoilers so I'm trying to tread carefully. So with that in mind, I'm going to let my feelings do the talking, so to speak. Blood Bound made me feel emotional, tense, anxious, angry, happy and sad, not to mention frustrated. There were so many times I had my fist clenched, wanting to do something and not being able to do a damn thing about it. Telling myself not to read on but compelled to do so. Its easy to forget that its only been a week since Jessie and Eden found each other because there's so much chemistry and love between them, you'd think it had been years. Their love is locked in, unbreakable.

The action was jam packed. There wasn't a moment in which I was bored or I thought something didn't work. It all flowed. That's the thing with Lindsay's mind and ingenuity. You never know what's going to happen next. So many times I thought I knew where the story was leading and every time I was proved wrong. I don't think my heart could take many more palpitations. So many 'heart in mouth moments.'

This is why I love this series. There hasn't been and will not be a dark paranormal romance series that can top this for me. As this is the penultimate book, I'm feeling slight trepidation for the last one. Blood Bound to me is the best yet and I truly love all of the books. If you haven't read any of Lindsay's Blackthorn series, you have to give it a go, starting with Blood Shadows. I promise you won't be disappointed.

I'm already having withdrawal symptoms and its going to take me a while to come down from this one.

Happy Reading :-)

[Marta Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot believe what I've just read! This book is the best yet in this series and absolutely jaw dropping and so intense. This world the author has created has grown into something that has clearly taken on a life of its own. The depth of emotions this story called forth is totally unbelievable . I'd enjoyed previous books with characters that excited but the utter depravity and evil in play here has left my head spinning. Complex does not begin to describe it, dark is far too light a word to use and all I can envisage is an onion with so many layers gradually peeling back leaving heartbreaking scenes and a whole lot of work left to do. Did I read this right? This is the penultimate book which means only one book left and it's all still very much to play for.
I just refuse to give away the plot but will confirm that yes it's the very human Eden and the angelic Jessie who step forward here . The synopsis gives away the fact that whilst trying to find a way to save Blackthorn the couple ( who've only just found each other) are captured and from that point on the revelations and well kept secrets come flooding forth. There's something here that as a hopeless romantic I found difficult to deal with but the love that shines through meant I could understand why. You will be shocked, horrified and so emotional from this point on but remember to watch the sidelines, look around at all the peripheral goings on . The characters in this world are set on a collision course of such magnitude I cannot begin to imagine just how the author can possibly wrap everything up in the next and last instalment.
I was gifted a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sequels are tough to write, there’s no doubt about that. Writing a sequel to a successful, well-received, debut novel is even tougher, but when you are seven books into a series? Even some of the most famous writers of the past forty years (I’m naming no names!) can struggle with that kind of pressure, so for Lindsay J Pryor to still maintain the adrenalin-filled, fast-paced buzz of her four-year old debut Blood Shadows is seriously no mean feat.
There’s always something rather wonderful about discovering a new author when they debut, diving headlong into the pages of a book that seems so fresh and exciting and knowing that you have found a new fictional world and characters that will go down on your all-time favourites list, and it’s been an absolute pleasure over the past four years to stick with Lindsay’s Blackthorn series and feel the thrill of an imminent new release. But, to be fair, I could have said that about a lot of authors over the years, because debut novels and new literary voices are always exciting – the difference with Blackthorn, is that Lindsay’s writing just seems to get better and better with each new book in the series. With each book, the tone gets a little darker, Lindsay gets a little braver with just how far she’s going to push her readers and there’s nothing I appreciate more than a writer who is willing to not just push the boundaries, but to hurdle right over them, not to be controversial, mind you – because it has to be right for the story – but to take a story in a more challenging direction.
Blood Bound starts where we left off in Blood Instinct, with the war mounting between the third species and the effortlessly twisted Sirius Throme, who seems to know just how to outwit his enemies at every turn. Forced to try and find a way out of Blackthorn via the tunnel system and now faced with another potential threat much closer to home, Eden, ex-Curfew Enforcement Office and angel envoi Jessie go on a mission that threatens to split them apart forever.
I’ll admit that of all the Blackthorn pairings, Eden and Jessie were never really my favourite, having had my heart claimed already by Jask and Phia, but I have to say that Lindsay really turned my head with these two in Blood Bound. At times, the imagery that exploded out of the pages was hard to ‘watch’, particularly with the short, fast chapters that Lindsay uses so well that you can’t help but feel like you’re watching a movie, seeing the action switch back and forth at speed between the characters, but I realised partway through that I was wincing and shifting uncomfortably in my chair much more than I would usually, because I’d grown to really love Eden and Jessie as characters. I saw depth here that maybe hadn’t captivated me the first time round in Blood Deep. I felt connected to them in a way that hadn’t been obvious to me before and it wasn’t long before I wished I could reach in and save them both, even if it was strangely and morbidly fascinating to witness all the trauma and horrors that both were forced to experience.
In all honesty, I had thought to myself prior to reading Blood Bound, that to have Eden and Jessie as the focus in the penultimate book was possibly going to be hard work for me, but as usual, in her own inimitable style, Lindsay has once again pulled me in and reminded me just why Blackthorn is still my favourite PNR series of all time.
The hot scenes were hotter than ever. The action scenes were gripping and edge-of-your-seat rollercoaster rides. And just when you think Lindsay can’t surprise you with any more plot twists, you get hit between the eyes by some new, jaw-dropping revelation. Seven books into the series and I am still, completely and utterly addicted to Blackthorn. That, my friends, is testament to great writing. That, is why you should all pick up this series today and fall in love just as I and many other Blackthorn fans have.
Blood Bound is a heart-racing, soul-pounding instalment and thoroughly deserving of five shiny, sparkling stars!

**I received this ARC from Bookouture and Lindsay for an honest review**

[Fiona Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness what have I just read? I only downloaded this book earlier today and have just lain awake finishing it. Once again I was totally absorbed in the story and wasn't willing to put it down until I finished.

This is part of a series which MUST be read in order. It is my all time favourite series ever and will no doubt remain in that top spot even when it is finished. This being the penultimate book that obviously means I need to brace myself for how I will feel when the next book comes out! I'm not ready, not by a long shot. But after reading this I know that the final part of this amazing series is going to be nothing short of spectacular!

Jessie and Eden are a brilliant couple. Only knowing each other for a short time, the depth of their feelings for each other seems unbreakable. Unfortunately, Jessie's past comes back to haunt her in a way which threatens everything they have ever known, not only their relationship. The depths that someone from her past will go to in order to have their own way will shock you. What happens next is not going to be easy to survive, emotions are extremely high and finding a way forward far more difficult than anyone could imagine.

There are so many characters in the background throughout this story, many who fans of this series have come to love, but some who we have come to hate also raise their ugly heads. As always the characters stay true to themselves throughout, and the story goes at such a pace I dare you to put the book down once you have started reading.

Absolutely brilliant story, amazing series and as much as I hate to say this, I can't wait for the final part to come my way.

Huge thanks to Bookouture, the author and Netgalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Tracie Delaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks go to Bookouture and Lindsay J Pryor for gifting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review

There will be no spoilers in this review, but what I will say is that I read it in one sitting; this is an extremely rare occurrence for me because I do tend to get restless, even with books that I’m thoroughly enjoying, and I have a habit of putting them to one side for half an hour to do something else before I get back to it.

Lindsay J Pryor has triumphed with this latest instalment of her wonderful series. The emotion has been ramped up to such an extent, there were times I could barely force myself to read on. If you’ve not yet found Blackthorn, let me be clear; this is not some ‘normal’ PNR series where the hero and heroine meet fall in love and eventually live happily ever after. Some of the chapters in Blood Bound made for very difficult reading, especially when you are so invested in the characters. Once or twice, I found myself gasping out loud at the twist and turns, and I spent a large proportion of the novel in disbelief and fear.

Blood Bound is a dark, disturbing, enthralling, breathtaking and downright genius piece of writing.

I bow to Ms Pryor for what she has achieved here. If I could give this book ten stars, I would.

[Julia Butterfield - Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

"When it comes to love, time is nothing more than a socially induced marker of validity. When you simply know, time becomes irrelevant"

Blood Bound is gripping, intense, deep, suspenseful storytelling at its very best and Lindsay J Pryor is not afraid to push the boundaries of both her characters and her readers. She brings out the absolute best and worst from all of them and manages to create the full range of emotions from fear to hope to absolute horror, then reminds you how strong love can be. I absolutely loved this book, there were some very uncomfortable to read scenes with Eden, but it reeled me in and didn't let go. It still hasn't let me go emotionally 3 days on, it is the best book in the best series I have ever read.

Blood Bound, the 7th and penultimate book in the Blackthorn series focuses on Eden and Jessie. Time is running out as they discover that the Angel tears Jessie used to save the lives of both her soulmate Eden and his 6 six year old niece are literally a poisonous ticking time bomb that will kill them both, unless they can find a cure. Sirius' army is closing in on Blackthorn, when someone from Jessie's past returns with dire consequences.

Eden and Jessie haven't known each other long, but they know they are meant to be together. Blood Bound tests their bond to the limit in the most deplorable ways. Eden is at a crossroads, angel on one side, devil on the other. The road behind is his future and the road ahead his past, but which way will he choose?

This whole series is brought to life for me by the depth and detail and the fact I just don't know what's coming next, certainly never what is expected! It makes me want to jump in and live alongside the people trying to break the corrupt system. There is only one book remaining, I can't imagine how dark the rest of the ride will be, but I'm not getting off and I can't wait for the finale. If I could give more than five stars I would!!

Thank you, I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for an honest review, thanks to Lindsay and Bookouture!

This review doesn't contain any spoilers because you simply need to read this book without having a clue about what's going to happen...

So this is the 7th in the Blackthorn series.... which you have to read in order. This is probably the darkest most delicious PNR series you will ever read and I recommend you settle down on the sofa, have your local take-away on speed dial and start at the beginning. You'll be there a while.

This book picks up the story of Jessie and Eden who, let's be honest, at the end of Blood Deep seemed to have it made. Eden, saved by Jessie's angel tears, destined to be stronger, faster, more efficient and at last madly, genuinely and passionately in love, and Jessie, whilst not really understanding her past, has her freedom and the love of the delectable Eden. But of course, you know that it was never going to stay that way, with all the chaos that has been building during Blood Dark and Blood Instinct.

Jessie and Eden are dragged back into the world they thought they had escaped from...and the plot gets darker and darker as they go deeper and deeper into Blackthorn. And every time you think you have it sussed and know what's going on, something else happens that knocks you sideways. There were times I literally had to peek out from behind the cushion, not sure I was brave enough to read what was going to happen next.

All I will say, is that I have absolutely no idea now what's in store for the final book in the series and I literally can't wait to read it, although I DO NOT want this series to end. I thought I had an idea but Blood Bound has blown it out the water. It takes a truly amazing writer to make you feel that she is happy unleashing utter pandemonium, smiling at the chaos and just watching at the disheveled state the reader ends up in.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for an honest review - Thank you Lindsay J Pryor and Bookouture!
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A gripping, intense roller coaster ride!

Did you feel that? That wave of emotion I am still riding after reading Blood Bound. It was so intense I read it in one day!!!

I was anxiously awaiting the return to Blackthorn in this 7th installment. I love love love this series: the way the characters are built, how the plots are contrived & Lindsay's overall writing style. You get sucked into Blackthorn and it's hard to get out; much like the characters in this series. I can actually visualize the story while I am reading it; enveloping me even further.

I must say that Eden and Jessie are my least favourite couple of the 4 mains. While they both have admiral qualities, I didn't like the 'cons' world. It is bleak, dreary, rough & small. HOWEVER, this, I'm sure, is the point! It does work in the stories favour since while you are reading it and what the characters are going through you 'become' the world and feel everything that they are feeling; you experience the drudgery of the 'cons' world and the roughness. (I felt the same way reading book 4 when you are first introduced to Eden, Jessie and the cons).

This book was such an intense roller coaster ride. My head is still spinning from it. At times I wanted to put it down and take a mental break, but I was so invested in the story, the characters and their world that I felt I couldn't leave; I must continue this journey with them.

The ending will leave you breathless and wanting for more. I can only imagine what book 8, the final installment, will have in-store! Please, please let it be two or three times as long!!!

p.s. I may never look at mints the same way again!!

[Dawn Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this ARC from the publisher for a honest review.

WOW what can is say but Lindsay has excelled herself with this 7th book in the Blackthorn series.
It is Eden and Jessie continuing story,it had me on the edge of my seat with lots and lots of 'OH' moments and 'You r kidding me' moments as well,i could not put this book down.It goes into alot about the angle tears which we know about for Eden, and what the outcome is.
No Spoilers for any readers here.
There were lots of emotions along the way through the book where i got really mad as well as shouting and screaming at these charaters that Lindsay brings to life in her Blackthorn books.I dont want this series to ever end but we only have 1 more book left.
For anybody that has not read the Blackthorn series this is must must read, if u like dark PNR this is for you,Lindsay's style of writting gets u right into the world which is BLACKTHORN....

[Stephanie Farrant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I made a prediction before I read Blood Bound and now I’ve finally read it, I can happily confirm I was right. There is no doubt in my mind that Blood Bound, book #7 in the Blackthorn series, is indeed my #bookoftheyear

I have been a nervous wreck in the build up to this story. After the way Blood Instinct finished, I was excited yet terrified to read more.

Jessie and Eden have always held a special place in my heart and my heart truly bled for them in this book. Lindsay J.Pryor really put them through the wringer. There were moments that I just had to stop reading, I needed time to digest everything and tell my heart that I could get through it.

See, that is when you know you are reading something special. When you feel like you are part of the story. When you feel like you are part of one big family. When you feel your favourite characters pain as if it were your own; their triumphs your own.

Never before have I read a series that holds so many intricate plots. Each one weaved to perfection and then brought together in ways that are always one step ahead of me. I can never guess what is going to happen; every turn of the page has my heart in my throat.

Blood Bound is the perfect addition to the Blackthorn series. Everything is coming together now, to what I am sure is going to be an explosive end. I just hope all of my favourite characters live to see the outcome.

Lindsay J.Pryor is officially the queen of PNR!

[Incy Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deep, dark and intense…exhilarating.

Whilst reading Blood Bound I had to pause and step away (as in leave the planet step away) a lot, such was the dark intensity of this love story—Forget the romance, it’s a love story!

Raw, primitive, dark, dark, dark, Ms. Pryor eviscerates her primary characters (Jessie and Eden) and the reader. This is contemporary Gothic—as I understand it—at its very, very best.

But in all that dark there is light—loyalty, courage, humanity… Love. Love of an unbreakable kind, and, by God, is that love tested. And found to be indestructible.

Eden, as the hero on this occasion (because Blackthorn is a series, and BB is title #7), is a standout. For his wit, his strength and resilience, and his complete inability to just let go and surrender.

But it’s Jessie who steals the show. With her compassion (knows no bounds), her sacrifice (knows no bounds), her endurance (knows no bounds).

The Medal of Valour must, however, go to Ms. Pryor. She, who saw boundaries and fearlessly pushed past them to deliver Blood Bound as a ‘lets bust all rules and stereotypes’ book, chock full with beautifully crafted characters.

My one niggle? The super fast time frame within which the series is set...but that's easily set aside.

Highly recommended as an unforgettable read.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

ok first off I love this series. I like the authors writing. I like the depth she goes when telling the story. Its vivid and detailed and thank goodness not cheesy like some paranormals I have read in the past.

I love Kane, I love Jask, Caleb is on the fence right now, but Eden I never really liked. I hate the way Edens character is portrayed. The con, sex crazed, vibe I get when I read about him. When I read a book I can not stand reading about a MC having sex with other people, especially after meeting the significant other, It just flaws the whole character for me.

In Edens first book (book 4) and he had sex with other woman (after meeting Jessie, if it was only before It wouldn't have bothered me) I don't care what excuse an author tries to give it isn't going to make it right to me. I didn't care he was under cover (I wished the author would of thought of something else lol). So when the 7th book was about Eden and Jessie again I was apprehensive about reading it. But I really wanted to see what was happening with the other characters and the building story.

Sighhh. This book felt similar to the 4th book except a different excuse for Eden to be unfaithful to Jessie. He looses his memory of Jessie (lots of shit went down), He and Jessie are put in the con row AGAIN with him thinking he is a con (since he has no memory of the last 10 years) and the cons are "In on it" so they construct this big story about how Eden is involved with Mya (a con bitch from previous book). Jessie (as a punishment from a jackass) has to watch Eden be involved with Mya.

Ok when Eden is with Mya the first time I thought maybe he would not "get it up" cause it was headed that way... But Nooo he does her. I could of forgiven him if that was it. Why? Because he hadn't seen or talked to Jessie yet. He sees Jessie, talks to her, blah blah, it seemed like maybe he was hot for her... Then he goes and has a threesome. Yeah yeah so he has no memory of her but even if they were starting from scratch (which was the case since he doesn't know her) as soon as the hero meets the heroine that's it. No other woman would do. No sex. Nothing!

I felt sooo sorry for Jessie. I wanted to get her another man! She has been through so damn much. Good thing is we finally find out Jessie's past and why she lost her memory. A lot of the story started to make sense. And Yes Eden and Jessie have their HEA - I still don't like him.

I really can not wait for the last book. It ended in a heart stopper / cliffhanger of OMG.

[Dmcl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This penultimate book in the Blackthorne series was the most intense and gripping to date. One third of the way through the book and my heart was broken by the horrors inflicted on Jesse and Eden. In my heart I knew they would come through, but Lindsay Pryor has woven her story in such a way that even to the end she kept me on the edge of my seat wondering whether I would get the resolution for which I hoped. The intensity of this story about the triumph of a love that could not be extinguished by hate and vengeance kept building right up to the story's conclusion. That ending did not disappoint and the last chapter promises that the final book will be a real heart stopper.
I received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, where to start!

If you've read any of the previous books in the series you will know how intense and compelling the Blackthorn series is. So I knew without a doubt that Blood Bound was going to be as edge-of-the-seat, what-just-happened, am-I-going-to-survive-this-book, as the other books have been. Except this is the penultimate book and my Blackthorn senses told me Blood Bound was about to go off the charts. And how right I was.

Blood Bound revisits Eden Reece, former CEO and Jessie, an envoi, with some special abilities that not even she is aware of, having had her memory wiped many years ago. Now let me say that Eden is hot! Seriously hot. And funny too with his quick wit and blossoming bromance with master vampire, Kane Malloy. But Jessie, Jessie intrigues me and is for me the star attraction of this couple.

Having no memory is a significant problem for Jessie, especially when the angel tears that kept Eden alive could now be a death sentence and not only to Eden. Blackthorn is under threat and those Jessie and Eden hold dear are at risk, so they have to find some way to escape. But not until Jessie can find a way to keep Eden safe and put right a wrong. Having suffered for years in captivity, Jessie now has to go back to the place she has just escaped from.

Eden can't let Jessie go alone, despite her protests, but are her intentions to keep him alive actually putting his life at risk? Both are forced to face the shadows of their pasts. Will time run out on their future?

I emotionally braced myself before I began to read Blood Bound and yet I still wasn't prepared for what was about to happen. All of my favourite series' and authors have books that peak and wane within a series but this isn't the case with Lindsay J. Pryor. The unexpected twists and revelations still hold their intensity and the plot is absolutely gripping. Every line matters and those secondary characters that you may deem unimportant in one book are actually cleverly relevant in another, especially in this story. The pace is relentless and the plot truly is a masterclass in world building and conflict. And what is amazing is how the author still manages to draw conflict from each couple, despite their happy-for-now endings in each book. The same can be said with Jessie and Eden. Their second story and you are still handed more from them in the way their relationship develops and the way they still have vulnerabilities to expose. And expose them Lindsay J. Pryor does.

Blackthorn is know for its complex layers and the darkness of the series and Blood Bound for me is the darkest yet. Jessie and Eden's vulnerabilities are exposed and then ripped to shreds. It's a challenging, shocking read in the best possible way. Just when you think the author really won't go there - she does! Jessie and Eden are tested beyond their limits and you feel every moment of it. And bravo, Lindsay J. Pryor, for being courageous enough to do that. Thank you for staying true to the series. Each harrowing scene serves to validate Blackthorn further. You might need to pick your broken heart up from the floor after reading Blood Bound- but my goodness it's worth every breath stolen moment. Stunning. Absolutely stunning.

The most powerful series I've ever read.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the seventh book in an eight book series, where each book develops from events in the earlier novels - so I really recommend reading them in sequence. The battle between the different factions continues throughout this novel with intriguing discoveries and long held secrets helping explain and add depth to prior events and attitudes. I am trying not to reveal any spoilers here, so please forgive my vagueness!

The exiled Angel, Jesca - or as she is better known at this stage, Jessie - is still determined to make things right after discovering that her Angel tears that were used to help heal the man she loves, Eden Reece and his little niece, Honey, could have life threatening side effects. The characters are diverse, with very different motivations and attitudes. The dystopian society is hierarchical but not all power is held by those who are responsible enough to wield it for the good of all. The scenarios are brilliantly portrayed, bringing them vividly to life in the imagination of the reader.

With a war threatening and only 48 hours to sort everything out, you can guarantee this will be a fast paced, action packed adventure that will keep you turning the pages to discover how all can be resolved. Just remember, however, that this is the seventh book, there's another to come, so whilst many things are sorted out there's more to come - I can't wait to read it!

Thanks to the author and publisher for gifting me an ARC of this novel via NetGalley.

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 7 and a continued story, so you will want to read books 1-6 first to understand what's going on.

This series is crazy! Youve got Lycans, Vampires, witches, Angels and so much more. Unlikely pairs are working together to prevent Sirius from wiping out what they call 3rd species. This book series follows several couples, each getting a book focused on them and what they are doing to help prevent the prophecy from happening.

This book is focused on Eden, a human and Jesse, an Angel. There is so much going on in this series, story within stories, that I can't even explain all that is happening. This is one of the best paranormal series I've read. Just be warned that no one is safe. A character you love may not make it out alive and there are things that happen that may be hard to take. This book in particular had me gut punched, but that does not keep me from truly enjoying this creative series!

ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Mellissa Monteforte Jimenez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is without a doubt my all time favorite. Everything a book reader would love is included again with Blood Bound. I am not the type who gives away information about the story but I have to say that everything we have come to love and dread in this continuing saga comes forward to give us more depth into the world of Blackthorn. Ms. Pryor has this way of drawing in her readers from the first paragraph and holds u captive until the end... And then you are left holding your breathe because it never seems like enough. The characters we have come to love and loathe continue to inspire and enrage us and before you know it, we are left suffering from BLACKTHORN withdrawals. My anxiousness is already full bloom, waiting for the conclusion yet at the same time not ready to get off this ride. #TeamBlackthorn

[Karinloos · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW what an emotional roller coaster ride.

This is the penultimate book in the Blackthorn series and if you haven't read the previous 6 books, STOP go back and read from book 1. This is actually one big story-line split into multiple books and if you have not read them in sequence, you won't understand the significance of the events or the characters, and chances are you will be to confused to appreciate the story.

The first 4 books in this series introduced the 4 couples involved in the series and with each book the plot-line deepened. The previous 2 books upped the angst level, and this book its upped even more. This book features Eden and Jessie and takes us back into the world of the Cons.

I have to say that book 4 which introduced Jessie and Eden, was my least favorite in the series and this book is a close second. The con's section of Blackthorn is gritty, hard, and "in your face brutal". The hardcore criminals have no sense of empathy and any form of deprivation goes and is used as entertainment.

In this book Jessie and Eden take a side trip to collect some research that Jessie's first "owner" had done. She believes that the research is still in the con's row and that it might give them more information on how to save Eden and Honey. In the mean time the situation in Blackthorn is reaching critical levels with Sirius's army moving in from the North and all exits being blocked. In the process of extracting the information they are captured by the Angels. Torrent, the leader of the Angel parliament, is a sadistic SOB. It appears that prior to Jessie being mindswiped, she was Torrent's lover and HE was the one that punished her and took away her memories and dumped her in Blackthorn, and he created the necklace binding

The events that occurred from this point on were very hard to read and cruel. Take not for readers who find infidelity , even when it not in the characters control as a trigger. I understand why the author took this route, as these events trigger other more significant events in the overall plot-line, it was still brutal!. Luckily Ms Pryor is an excellent author and despite wanting to throw my kindle and stomp on it, she HAS NEVER LET US DOWN.

I am now eagerly awaiting the conclusion of this story, which is the BEST dark PNR/UF series on the market today.

[Delphine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could tell you all about the dark and gritty world of Blackthorn, and the plot outline of this book, but there are already plenty of reviews out there doing this, so I wanted to do something different.

I read a LOT of books. One of the hardest things for me is to find a series that I really like. I am happy to tell you that the Blackthorn books whole heartedly step up to this plate.

Books rarely make me feel any kind of emotion (I never cry when I read, I just don’t!) but Blood Bound certainly woke up a number of emotions within me that are wholly unfamiliar when reading. Such emotions include:-

1. Awareness
I became aware as the story progressed that I genuinely care about the plight of Jesse and Eden, and as I turned the pages, I found myself repeatedly thinking “please don’t let them die, please don’t let them die”

2. Anger
This came in two forms, firstly on behalf of Jessie and Eden because they had been dealt such a difficult hand, with what at times felt like an insurmountable number of obstacles to face, and secondly, when anyone tried to interrupt me whilst reading. All I wanted to know from beginning to end was how their story would pan out. So brace your family in advance!

3. Excitement
For the first time in a very long time, my heart race actually increased whilst reading. Towards the end of the book, my heart was pounding. I didn’t even have to move, who needs the gym when they can have Blackthorn?

4. Lust
(misplaced, I grant you) for the new baddie, that any wing obsessed reader will love to hate!

In my opinion, Blood Bound has the most pace out of all of the Blackthorn books. As ever, it is a beautifully written and very well edited piece of writing.

So now, take a deep breath in anticipation of the grand finale. I cant wait because I have no idea how this will turn out. All I do know is that it is going to be one HELL of a ride.

Thank you Lindsay, as ever, I am in complete awe of your creativity and talent x

[Demei · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional!

Bravo, Bravo, Bravo!!!!! I can't express enough how much I love this series and Blood Bound did not disappoint. I was in so much turmoil as I awaited the fate of my heroes. Once again Lindsay J. Pryor kept me entertained and engrossed with her characters and creative imagination. I hated to end the story as I wanted it to keep going and stay in the world of Blackthorn but the anticipation kept my eyes glued to the last word! I can't wait for the next chapter into the world of Blackthorn!

[Jena]

When a book with cheating has this many 5 stars, I call bullshit.
Hello arc readers.

Self note
Avoid.

[Helen Wawrejko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review. War is imminent between Throme and the 3rd species. Throme is trying to capture Kane because he can soul transfer. Leading the group that is trying to get them to safety, Eden and Jessie leave to retrieve papers that might help them with the angel tears. Captured by Torren, Eden has the last 10 years of his memory wiped in a bid for their freedom. Torren instead hands them over to Homer, who Eden had left for dead when he burned down Pommels row. With no memory of any of that, Homer plays a sadistic game with Jessie and him. Time is running out to save the people of Blackthorne, Eden being an intregal part of this. Jessie discovers she has a new power. Political intrigue, death and destruction, action packed. Cliffhanger. Excellent worldbuilding. Multiple storylines coming together for the last book.

[MonicaLee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dropped right into the hornet’s nest! That is the only way to describe the beginning of Blood Bound. The action intensifies with fervor. You know it must be especially dire if Master Vampire Kane is losing his trademark cool in the first chapter.
This is truly a love story wrapped up in an action packed extravaganza.
Eden’s love for Jessie is tested in a way I could never imagine (Way to go Lindsay J Pryor)! Eden has always been the reluctant hero, for which he truly shines. But the real hero is Jessie. She is a force of love, strength and dedication. Her conviction to do what is right, going against her own kind- she possess a spirit which is unbreakable. And her certainty in her love for Eden enables her to move past some particularly heinous actions on his part (though not his fault).
A theme for this book is secret agendas- everyone has them. And the truly grotesque ones of Terron, the Angel, come to light. He makes Fenith look like a girl scout. We get to see the worst of humanity brought forth by an Angel. Terron is cruel, for the sake of his own will. He had me cursing his name several times throughout this book.
The hell that is unraveled at the end is breathtaking! I do not know how this book series will end. These stories are so spellbindingly, brilliantly written that it is IMPOSSIBLE to see/predict just which way this rollercoaster will go. I had to reread certain parts of this installment just to wrap by brain around the implications of some of the outcomes.
Bravo to Lindsay J Pryor on another torturously FANTASTIC installment.

[Ange · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lindsay did it again!!!

Blood bound is the 7th book in a 8 book series that will blow your mind! So many twists and turns, so much suspense and countless revelations that just keep the reader glued to their seat.

And the plot thickens; with various branches of the story intricately intertwined, each with their own thorns that hit the reader right where it hurts the most. The perfect epitome of Blackthorn.

Blood bound begins at a high pace with the stakes clearly raised; our "hero's" are on the run as an army close in and the level of tension/suspense just accelerates from there. The story follows Eden and Jesse on a harrowing journey that literally had me so glued to my screen that I forgot to eat or drink for hours!

Cannot recommend this series enough but you must start from the beginning with Blood Shadows; even then you will be left wondering where the brutal yet ingenious mind of Lindsay J Pryor will lead us next.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book!!!!! This series. Simply Amazing. I have bags under my eyes from lack of sleep. This book broke my heart. Just what?????? New revelations about the prophecy that is ever changing. New revelations about each of the main characters.
Jessie and Eden - Oh I love them. As much as this one broke my heart it also made me feel their love more. They can overcome anything together.

Still hate Sirus!!!!!!!!!!!!


Now I have to wait for the last book!!!!!!
I need the next book ASAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Amanda Perrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow Wow Wow....... Why can I only give this book 5 stars, it deserves so much more!!!

Book 7 brings us back to Eden & Jessie, OMG things do not go smoothly for these characters.

I absolutely love this series, it is definitely in my top 5 best ever & would never hesitate to recommend.

**Massive thank you to Bookouture & Lindsay J Pryor for allowing me an ARC**

[Chelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bloody hell!

This series simply can't get any better.

When I recover I will return and write a proper review.

Thanks to the publisher for approving me for an ARC

[Denise Artley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

You have done it again. I could not stop reading. Exciting and full of action. I am so going to miss these stories. Guess I will have to read all of them again. Cannot wait to see what happens.