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Bound #2
Bound to Him
Lord Vincent Prescot’s life couldn’t be better. Thriving investments, well-respected by his peers, and a man who submits to his every desire—what more could he want? Lord Oliver Marsden should be more than happy with his life. He’s been in love with Vincent for over a decade and six months ago the impossible happened and they became lovers. But since then, nothing has changed. More specifically, Vincent hasn’t changed. Oliver has tried to be patient—it took a lot for Vincent to accept the fact he preferred men. But what felt like a tiny distance between them six months ago now feels like an ever-widening chasm. Then Vincent’s father asks him for a favor—one that involves marriage. If Vincent agrees, he’ll have the respect he’s craved from his father his entire life but he could lose Oliver. Nor does Oliver make the decision easy. To keep Oliver, Vincent must do more than deny his father. He’ll have to give Oliver his heart. This is a previously published work. This second edition has been edited with minor changes. For readers who purchased the original edition, this second edition is not substantially different.
112 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2009
20 people are currently reading
703 people want to read
About the author
Ava March
27 books761 followersAva March is a bestselling author of sexy, emotionally intense M/M historical erotic romances. She loves writing in the Regency time period, where proper decorum is of the utmost importance, but where anything can happen behind closed doors. With over fifteen works to her credit, her books have been finalists in the Rainbow Awards and More Than Magic contest, and deemed ‘must-haves’ for Historical M/M romance by RT Book Reviews readers. Visit her website at www.AvaMarch.com to find out more about her books or to sign-up for her newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
February 15, 2019
5 stars for the Audiobook
3.5 stars for the story
This was a little more angsty than book 1.
Oliver and Vincent are six months into their relationship but there is pressure from both sides of the family, for them to marry. It was wonderful to reads how they deal with this issue. Times were really hard in the 1800s, still is.
The sex is still hot, the writing really good and the character development amazing!
Thank you impatient elf for this gift.
3.5 stars for the story
This was a little more angsty than book 1.
Oliver and Vincent are six months into their relationship but there is pressure from both sides of the family, for them to marry. It was wonderful to reads how they deal with this issue. Times were really hard in the 1800s, still is.
The sex is still hot, the writing really good and the character development amazing!
Thank you impatient elf for this gift.
May 3, 2009
This is another book I would rate higher than 5 stars. Ugh! I hate limitations!
I was so anxious to read this book. Bound by Deception is one of my all time favorite books. I had fallen under Oliver and Vincent’s spell, and was so excited when I found out Ava was continuing their story. I felt like we had to wait forever until Bound to Him was released. After I read it, it was worth the wait! I don't want to spoil the book, so I'll tread as light as I can with this review.
Shhhh…I have a confession to make. I am in love with Oliver Marsden. Between his sweet disposition, willingness to take chances, intelligence, intensity, charm and quiet sexiness makes him one of my all time favorite heroes. As sexy and brooding as Vincent is, Oliver is always the one I focus on, and is the scene stealer in every page he is written on. It felt so great revisiting them and seeing how their relationship has progressed in the past six months.
If you haven’t read the first book, Bound by Deception, I think it would be best to read it first before you read Bound to Him. Although, Bound to Him could probably be read as a stand alone book, but you would be missing some of the dynamics of Oliver and Vincent’s relationship, and the back story of how they met, and started their life as lovers. I am not going to get too much into the storyline, because I don’t want to spoil it. Just read this series. You will love it!
Six months into having a relationship with Vincent, Oliver is starting to feel like he isn’t a priority in Vincent’s life. Vincent will be gone for several weeks at a time, he is often late for their rendezvous, hasn’t ever spent the night, and never speaks of his love or devotion to Oliver. This behavior has made Oliver question Vincent’s feelings for him, and if they have a possible future together. He doesn’t want to lose Vincent, but he doesn’t want to be treated indifferently either. For once, Oliver would like to know where he stands in Vincent’s life and in his heart.
Vincent is under a tremendous amount of pressure. No matter what he does, he never lives up to his father’s expectation of him. Plus, as much as he cares for and wants to be with Oliver, he knows they must be very careful and very discreet or their reputation will be ruined. When his father demands he marries, Vincent is as an impasse. He has no desire to live a lie, but this could earn his father’s respect and attention, but he could lose Oliver and his own self respect in the process.
There are things that must be communicated and choices to be made if Oliver and Vincent are to remain together. Vincent must give up his closely guarded heart and take a chance on Oliver and Oliver’s love, but will he be too late?
I hated for Bound to Him to come to an end. I loved it, and I hope maybe Ava will continue their story some other time. I would love to see how their life is after a few years have passed. But, Bound to Him has a very satisfying ending…I just hope it isn’t THE END…lol.
I was so anxious to read this book. Bound by Deception is one of my all time favorite books. I had fallen under Oliver and Vincent’s spell, and was so excited when I found out Ava was continuing their story. I felt like we had to wait forever until Bound to Him was released. After I read it, it was worth the wait! I don't want to spoil the book, so I'll tread as light as I can with this review.
Shhhh…I have a confession to make. I am in love with Oliver Marsden. Between his sweet disposition, willingness to take chances, intelligence, intensity, charm and quiet sexiness makes him one of my all time favorite heroes. As sexy and brooding as Vincent is, Oliver is always the one I focus on, and is the scene stealer in every page he is written on. It felt so great revisiting them and seeing how their relationship has progressed in the past six months.
If you haven’t read the first book, Bound by Deception, I think it would be best to read it first before you read Bound to Him. Although, Bound to Him could probably be read as a stand alone book, but you would be missing some of the dynamics of Oliver and Vincent’s relationship, and the back story of how they met, and started their life as lovers. I am not going to get too much into the storyline, because I don’t want to spoil it. Just read this series. You will love it!
Six months into having a relationship with Vincent, Oliver is starting to feel like he isn’t a priority in Vincent’s life. Vincent will be gone for several weeks at a time, he is often late for their rendezvous, hasn’t ever spent the night, and never speaks of his love or devotion to Oliver. This behavior has made Oliver question Vincent’s feelings for him, and if they have a possible future together. He doesn’t want to lose Vincent, but he doesn’t want to be treated indifferently either. For once, Oliver would like to know where he stands in Vincent’s life and in his heart.
Vincent is under a tremendous amount of pressure. No matter what he does, he never lives up to his father’s expectation of him. Plus, as much as he cares for and wants to be with Oliver, he knows they must be very careful and very discreet or their reputation will be ruined. When his father demands he marries, Vincent is as an impasse. He has no desire to live a lie, but this could earn his father’s respect and attention, but he could lose Oliver and his own self respect in the process.
There are things that must be communicated and choices to be made if Oliver and Vincent are to remain together. Vincent must give up his closely guarded heart and take a chance on Oliver and Oliver’s love, but will he be too late?
I hated for Bound to Him to come to an end. I loved it, and I hope maybe Ava will continue their story some other time. I would love to see how their life is after a few years have passed. But, Bound to Him has a very satisfying ending…I just hope it isn’t THE END…lol.
August 17, 2018
2nd part of the “bound” story (a book sliced in 3 instalments) : it’s an historical HOT romance at its best, at least for me. Six months that the relationship between Oliver and Vincent shifted and the journey is far from being over. Vincent is finally crumbling.
The titles of these instalments are so fitted. Let’s see how far it will go : on the last part.
The titles of these instalments are so fitted. Let’s see how far it will go : on the last part.
June 10, 2020
This is a wonderful sequel. I love how Oliver managed to overcome his inertia & take control of his life. I also liked how he was able to demand more from Vincent. To demand he (Vincent) be open & honest about how he felt about Oliver. The kinky stuff was incidental to this story in this book but what Ava March gave us was beautifully portrayed as usual. This is essential reading if you love Oliver & Vincent but wouldn't work well as a stand-alone book.
May 27, 2021
Just as enjoyable (and HOT 🔥) as the first one, with some delicious angst thrown in as an added bonus! I really like this couple. Vincent pissed me off a bit in the beginning, to be honest, but he finally saw sense, so it’s all good now.
June 4, 2017
The second instalment of The Bound Series and as good as the first one!
IMHO, in this part we can see more of Oliver's character and his spine. He's strong enough to stand up to Vincent and, by doing it, to fight for Vincent - his devotion and feelings and not only his lust and desire. And I loved Oliver for that, for being able to leave Vincent, if need be, to save himself and his heart.
And I loved Vincent, too. Oh, don't get me wrong, I was so pissed off at him for following his father's whims and hurting Oliver. Argh!!! But then... Then I think I really fell in love with Vincent. Wholeheartedly, period!
The final scene between Oliver and Vincent? So de-f*cking-licious! Vincent's determination and, at the same time, vulnerability as he exposed himself to Oliver... *sighs*
My heart just melted!!!
IMHO, in this part we can see more of Oliver's character and his spine. He's strong enough to stand up to Vincent and, by doing it, to fight for Vincent - his devotion and feelings and not only his lust and desire. And I loved Oliver for that, for being able to leave Vincent, if need be, to save himself and his heart.
And I loved Vincent, too. Oh, don't get me wrong, I was so pissed off at him for following his father's whims and hurting Oliver. Argh!!! But then... Then I think I really fell in love with Vincent. Wholeheartedly, period!
The final scene between Oliver and Vincent? So de-f*cking-licious! Vincent's determination and, at the same time, vulnerability as he exposed himself to Oliver... *sighs*
My heart just melted!!!
August 18, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Sheesh Ava.....*fans self*
Love Lord Oliver and Lord Vincent!
Sheesh Ava.....*fans self*
Love Lord Oliver and Lord Vincent!
June 27, 2014
Ok, so, this was Oliver and Vincent's story, part two.
Ms. March's writing was still pretty damn awesome.
Vincent and Oliver were still hot...
and kinky.
*fans self*
I am happy to say that Vincent's character improved for me. He definitely made leaps and bounds in accepting his preference for men and not being so ashamed of it. Also, he finally managed to stand up to his arsehole of a father.
But...but...there is always a
Vincent does finally admit the he has feelings for Oliver. However, it seems like Vincent is still only attracted to Oliver because they are so sexually compatible. I didn't really feel like Vincent liked Oliver for anything more than as the perfect bed partner and a confidant. Their relationship still felt too one-sided. Hopefully, the last book will help me find that missing connection that I feel between these two...
Ms. March's writing was still pretty damn awesome.
Vincent and Oliver were still hot...
and kinky.
*fans self*
I am happy to say that Vincent's character improved for me. He definitely made leaps and bounds in accepting his preference for men and not being so ashamed of it. Also, he finally managed to stand up to his arsehole of a father.
But...but...there is always a
Vincent does finally admit the he has feelings for Oliver. However, it seems like Vincent is still only attracted to Oliver because they are so sexually compatible. I didn't really feel like Vincent liked Oliver for anything more than as the perfect bed partner and a confidant. Their relationship still felt too one-sided. Hopefully, the last book will help me find that missing connection that I feel between these two...
September 13, 2018
*4,5 stars*
Oh yes! Oliver and Vincent definitely rock.
Ava March packed a lot of feels into the second book of the series.
I just adored how Oliver stands up to Vincent, how he makes his point and nudges Vincent who still struggles to admit his sexuality to himself, into having a good look at himself.
I LOVED the scene where
Only complaint: this was too short. I would love to have a more in depth look at Vincent’s relationship with his father and brother, for example.
Still, amazing reading for a novella!
Oh yes! Oliver and Vincent definitely rock.
Ava March packed a lot of feels into the second book of the series.
I just adored how Oliver stands up to Vincent, how he makes his point and nudges Vincent who still struggles to admit his sexuality to himself, into having a good look at himself.
I LOVED the scene where
Only complaint: this was too short. I would love to have a more in depth look at Vincent’s relationship with his father and brother, for example.
Still, amazing reading for a novella!
January 22, 2011
Okay, Bound to Him has to be even better than Bound by Deception. The emotions Oliver and Vincent were feeling, felt so real to me. I didn't want to put down the book once I started.
With this continuation, we get a deeper look into the relationship Oliver and Vincent have 6 months after they became lovers in Bound by Deception. We get a better look at the responsibilities Vincent takes on so he can earn respect from his father. How Vincent's decision, and his lack of accepting himself again, puts distance between him and Oliver. We see how Vincent and Oliver grow over that hurdle that was forced between the two.
Oliver is definitely my favorite character. He takes the conflicts that come between himself and Vincent and grows from it, becoming an independent man. He's smart enough to know when to let go of something before he gets too hurt. Vincent is definitely more cold in this one. His emotions are more invested in Oliver now and because of that, he has to put on a colder front, hurting Oliver in the process. Not to worry, though, he realizes the error of his ways.
I love the way Ava writes her BDSM scenes. They're so beautifully written to me that a couple of times I found myself re-reading a scene or two. They're just captivating to me. *shrugs* The plot was quite interesting. I loved how we got to see some of their family, Oliver's Grandmother and Vincent's Father.
All in all, an excellent sequel and I can't wait for the third book in the series. [image error]
With this continuation, we get a deeper look into the relationship Oliver and Vincent have 6 months after they became lovers in Bound by Deception. We get a better look at the responsibilities Vincent takes on so he can earn respect from his father. How Vincent's decision, and his lack of accepting himself again, puts distance between him and Oliver. We see how Vincent and Oliver grow over that hurdle that was forced between the two.
Oliver is definitely my favorite character. He takes the conflicts that come between himself and Vincent and grows from it, becoming an independent man. He's smart enough to know when to let go of something before he gets too hurt. Vincent is definitely more cold in this one. His emotions are more invested in Oliver now and because of that, he has to put on a colder front, hurting Oliver in the process. Not to worry, though, he realizes the error of his ways.
I love the way Ava writes her BDSM scenes. They're so beautifully written to me that a couple of times I found myself re-reading a scene or two. They're just captivating to me. *shrugs* The plot was quite interesting. I loved how we got to see some of their family, Oliver's Grandmother and Vincent's Father.
All in all, an excellent sequel and I can't wait for the third book in the series. [image error]
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September 7, 2012This is a captivating little novella which I enjoyed and kept reading well past bedtime (so much for 'first five pages'). The characters are well-drawn and the writing is fully engrossing. The text has just the right amount of period detail that shows that the author knows her period, and watching a great writer spin their yarn is always enjoyable, regardless of the plot or the time period. I'm not well-versed in the Regency, but I found the setting believable as presented. The characters are interesting and layered – while Oliver is a sub and a bottom, he isn't the mewling weepy doormat a lesser writer would have turned him into, and quite clearly has a pair (and uses it). And while Vincent is a kinky dominant and top, what drives him in the story are the desire to please, the need to fit in, and some serious abandonment issues.
Both men have to hide what they like and who they do it with, but that doesn't make them coy about it at all. If there's one issue I have, it's that one. They behave like Regency men outside the bedroom, while inside, they speak and act like modern-day porn stars with the full repertoire of practices and the kind of dialogue that is pretty much to be expected. Of course that is a fine line – how to satisfy the demand for 'hot explicit sex' with a cast that has different sexual morals and habits, but then, I haven't witnessed Regency-era gay sex, so whatever I'd assume about it is conjecture anyway and anybody's guess is probably as good as mine.
Overall, I really liked this novella because of the strong writing, the well-drawn characters and the amount of period detail that all fuses together seamlessly and in that effortless way that betrays a great writer at work. Well done!
Both men have to hide what they like and who they do it with, but that doesn't make them coy about it at all. If there's one issue I have, it's that one. They behave like Regency men outside the bedroom, while inside, they speak and act like modern-day porn stars with the full repertoire of practices and the kind of dialogue that is pretty much to be expected. Of course that is a fine line – how to satisfy the demand for 'hot explicit sex' with a cast that has different sexual morals and habits, but then, I haven't witnessed Regency-era gay sex, so whatever I'd assume about it is conjecture anyway and anybody's guess is probably as good as mine.
Overall, I really liked this novella because of the strong writing, the well-drawn characters and the amount of period detail that all fuses together seamlessly and in that effortless way that betrays a great writer at work. Well done!
April 27, 2020
Set six months after the events in Bound by Deception we find both Oliver and Vincent more or less settled into a life together - friends by day, lovers by night. But while Oliver gives this his all, Vincent is not 100% there or in. He still craves his father's approval and that stops him from fully accepting his love and desire for Oliver. I felt his struggle this time. I kind of wanted to feel sorry for his situation, but the way he slowly hurt Oliver didn't sit well with me. His actions were cruel.
Oliver is the heart of this relationship and he is slowly bleeding out. What he thought would be enough is no longer an option. He doesn't just want Vincent's body and command, he wants his heart, and the other man is reluctant to give it. One good thing that came out of their discord was the fact that Oliver finally took something for his own, he found his passion in books and transformed it into a source of income.
In the end Vincent looked deep inside himself and figured out what he could not live without - it was not even a choice. Oliver has become a vital part of him, and he would be nothing without him. I am glad he stood up to his selfish and uncaring father after all. And the make up between them was hot, sweet and so passionate. Vincent eats crow pie rather well. Mwahaha!
Oliver is the heart of this relationship and he is slowly bleeding out. What he thought would be enough is no longer an option. He doesn't just want Vincent's body and command, he wants his heart, and the other man is reluctant to give it. One good thing that came out of their discord was the fact that Oliver finally took something for his own, he found his passion in books and transformed it into a source of income.
In the end Vincent looked deep inside himself and figured out what he could not live without - it was not even a choice. Oliver has become a vital part of him, and he would be nothing without him. I am glad he stood up to his selfish and uncaring father after all. And the make up between them was hot, sweet and so passionate. Vincent eats crow pie rather well. Mwahaha!
January 21, 2011
Vincent and Oliver will have to be apart...
Yes... it's the start of this book. Vincent going back to London after some time away from Oliver.
I was stunned... that was my feelings for most of the book. Vincent is now so damn annoying with his adoration of his father! He will not only keep fighting against his "unaccepted" love for another man, but now will be in deeply shit (pardon my French, but it's true) being promised to married.
So, more drama, and now believe me there will be FINALLY a drastic change... Oliver can't take anymore
, being always Vincent last priority, and Vincent... well, he must decide... keep denying his true feelings 
or kick his father ass and be with Oliver?5 stars and I can't wait to read the third of this serie!
August 21, 2009
I wasn't sure if I would like this book as much as Bound by Deception, but I did! Ms. March did an excellent job of getting our Oliver and Vincent together with a satisfying ending. I only hope that Shayne is able to chain Ava to her computer so she can write more about these two glorious men! I would love to read more about them!
August 22, 2018
This was really good and enjoyable. Some angst happened as Oliver wanted more and Vincent was too scared to fully accept that he wanted men - specifically, Oliver - and his dad basically orders him to marry, and Vincent has been so desperate to please his father for so long that he goes along with it - for awhile, but then he realizes he really is going to lose Oliver and Oliver is all he wants.
I was so happy that Vincent admitted his love for Oliver, and the end was so great, them having sex with that love between them. It was the best.
Now onto the last book in this series.
I was so happy that Vincent admitted his love for Oliver, and the end was so great, them having sex with that love between them. It was the best.
Now onto the last book in this series.
Read
July 2, 2009I don't know, but I have the feeling that Ava March wanted to prove that she can write an accurate gay historical romance... the previous book, Bound by Deception was really good, but, maybe since it was short, or maybe since it was only the starting of a relationship, when all the odds seem smaller, reader actually didn't indulge in wondering if there was historical accuracy.
Lord Oliver and Lord Vincent were in love, Lord Oliver deceived Lord Vincent but only for love, and at the end of the novella they were happily in love ever after... or not? At the end of the previous book Vincent admits to be attracted by men, and in particular to be attracted by his friend Oliver, but a lot of question are still opened; Oliver is still a destitute aristocrat that barely makes the ends meet, he has not the wealth or the means to allow him to be above the law, and he is to proud to accept help from Vincent. On the other end Vincent has the means, but probably not still the willingness; he has barely accepted his preferences for men, maybe helped by the fact that now he can satisfy them easily in the safe haven of Oliver's apartment.
But Vincent is not still at peace with himself, he still considers his desires as a deviance and since him first judge them, he has the idea that everyone around him are judging them. And so if previously Oliver, even if poor and out of fashion, had the chance to frequent Vincent in public as his friend, now Vincent limits their encounters to shabby places or in private. Now Oliver, other than feeling inferior due to his financial situation, feels like Vincent is considering him his mistress. So the happily ever after we thought they found at the end of the first book, is not so happily in the end...
And since this is the second book, the author now has the chance to deal with her characters in society... how they can remain inside the boundaries of the ton even after? The obviously and only answer is: they can't. The author decides to not use the easily short cut of making them both wealthy and noble, and saying that the law is not equal for all, that noblemen are judged with a different parameter; the only concession that the author does to the romance, and the romance reader, is to write that the heroes, and Vincent in particular, are still very young, 24 years old, and so the necessity to marry and produce an heir is not yet so imperative... and maybe it will never be, since Vincent is a second son, like Oliver, and if his older brother does his due, Vincent will have a change to become an old bachelor, with a very special friend by his side like Oliver... but never openly and always with discretion.
And so my final verdict is that Bound to Him is less pink glasses perspective that Bound by Deception, more realistic, and being so, feels truer, and probably will appeal to the more selective historical romance readers. Anyway, again, to be only a novella, the quality standard is very high.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002HJV4UM/?...
Lord Oliver and Lord Vincent were in love, Lord Oliver deceived Lord Vincent but only for love, and at the end of the novella they were happily in love ever after... or not? At the end of the previous book Vincent admits to be attracted by men, and in particular to be attracted by his friend Oliver, but a lot of question are still opened; Oliver is still a destitute aristocrat that barely makes the ends meet, he has not the wealth or the means to allow him to be above the law, and he is to proud to accept help from Vincent. On the other end Vincent has the means, but probably not still the willingness; he has barely accepted his preferences for men, maybe helped by the fact that now he can satisfy them easily in the safe haven of Oliver's apartment.
But Vincent is not still at peace with himself, he still considers his desires as a deviance and since him first judge them, he has the idea that everyone around him are judging them. And so if previously Oliver, even if poor and out of fashion, had the chance to frequent Vincent in public as his friend, now Vincent limits their encounters to shabby places or in private. Now Oliver, other than feeling inferior due to his financial situation, feels like Vincent is considering him his mistress. So the happily ever after we thought they found at the end of the first book, is not so happily in the end...
And since this is the second book, the author now has the chance to deal with her characters in society... how they can remain inside the boundaries of the ton even after? The obviously and only answer is: they can't. The author decides to not use the easily short cut of making them both wealthy and noble, and saying that the law is not equal for all, that noblemen are judged with a different parameter; the only concession that the author does to the romance, and the romance reader, is to write that the heroes, and Vincent in particular, are still very young, 24 years old, and so the necessity to marry and produce an heir is not yet so imperative... and maybe it will never be, since Vincent is a second son, like Oliver, and if his older brother does his due, Vincent will have a change to become an old bachelor, with a very special friend by his side like Oliver... but never openly and always with discretion.
And so my final verdict is that Bound to Him is less pink glasses perspective that Bound by Deception, more realistic, and being so, feels truer, and probably will appeal to the more selective historical romance readers. Anyway, again, to be only a novella, the quality standard is very high.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002HJV4UM/?...
October 3, 2010
This book is the sequel to Bound by Deception, a book I loved very much. We meet Vincent and Oliver six months after the end of the previous book.
Oliver has been loving Vincent for years and he finally has him, but he's not satisfied with their relationship. He wants something more than sex, he wants his love to be acknowledged by Vincent, he wants Vincent to reciprocate his feelings. He therefore stands up against Vincent and voices his emotion. It's something I would have never expected from Oliver or at least not from the Oliver of the previous book.
Vincent is clearly surprised by Oliver and he has to face his own feelings. In this book, Vincent is not as cold as he was before, we get a better insight of his soul. There's an interesting parallel between Oliver's desire to please Vincent and Vincent's desire to please his father. Vincent's aloofness pushes Oliver away, Oliver that would do anything to please him. Vincent would do anything to please his father and he's constantly refused, his father intends to use him and discard him, with no recognition of his feelings.
The strain in their relationship is an incentive for both to take their fate in their hands and face their responsibilities, but while the emotional but poor Oliver has to abandon his lazyness to make a more decent living, the rich but cold Vincent has to embrace his passion to become a better man.
It's a great book, maybe it's just too short. I really liked the ending, it seemed very honest.
Oliver has been loving Vincent for years and he finally has him, but he's not satisfied with their relationship. He wants something more than sex, he wants his love to be acknowledged by Vincent, he wants Vincent to reciprocate his feelings. He therefore stands up against Vincent and voices his emotion. It's something I would have never expected from Oliver or at least not from the Oliver of the previous book.
Vincent is clearly surprised by Oliver and he has to face his own feelings. In this book, Vincent is not as cold as he was before, we get a better insight of his soul. There's an interesting parallel between Oliver's desire to please Vincent and Vincent's desire to please his father. Vincent's aloofness pushes Oliver away, Oliver that would do anything to please him. Vincent would do anything to please his father and he's constantly refused, his father intends to use him and discard him, with no recognition of his feelings.
The strain in their relationship is an incentive for both to take their fate in their hands and face their responsibilities, but while the emotional but poor Oliver has to abandon his lazyness to make a more decent living, the rich but cold Vincent has to embrace his passion to become a better man.
It's a great book, maybe it's just too short. I really liked the ending, it seemed very honest.
September 16, 2009
I grabbed this novella with hunger of one who starved for historical gay fiction and well I was satisfied with regency gentlemen in very compromising situation. Author skilfully put in front of reader sequel to her Bound by Deception Lord Oliver who skillfully lured his beloved lord Vincent to his shabby bedroom and made him to slowly accepting who he really was aka gay in regency clothes. The sun is shining for several pages only to be cut by proper drama, which leads to the golden plot line "finally together, spat, the jerk and the good, the jerk realize his mistakes and good that he was too harsh, little talk with huge sex scene and happily ever after - in this case screwing without being discovered - ruined or hanged"
Oliver and Vincent had to overcome many issues like their different financial and social status. Vincent´s unwillingness to admit how much he cared for Oliver and Oliver jumpy attitude. Various POV of those two was used in this novella and well I am not huge fan of whining boys. Not a bit. Here, the whining was on tolerable regency heroine level and remedied with very hot sex scenes. For the whining I would give 4 and 1/2. But this is very personal I am lost in emotional scenes where character pour his heart over another and the cruel world.
Oliver and Vincent had to overcome many issues like their different financial and social status. Vincent´s unwillingness to admit how much he cared for Oliver and Oliver jumpy attitude. Various POV of those two was used in this novella and well I am not huge fan of whining boys. Not a bit. Here, the whining was on tolerable regency heroine level and remedied with very hot sex scenes. For the whining I would give 4 and 1/2. But this is very personal I am lost in emotional scenes where character pour his heart over another and the cruel world.
January 4, 2014
After reading the last story, I think this is my favorite.
Why?
Because this is where Vincent finally realized how he felt for Oliver. This is where the 'power' shifted, so to speak. I noticed how Vincent always called Oliver, Marsden, in the first story and the beginning of this one -- but during the final act, when Vincent came to Oliver to tell him that he is not marrying Lady Julianna, Vincent referred to him as "Oliver". That scene just clicked to me, right there. It was no longer just one-sided love.
The conflict was well-played, well-written. Considering Vincent's family and his position as second son, as well as the time period, it was something believable. I liked reading Oliver grew some spine too -- refusing to be just a secret male mistress. It was also more emotional, for me, than story #1 since both men were hurting in this (in story #1, Oliver was the only one pining). The emotion between the two was palpable, because they truly belong to one another....
Personal MM historical challenge January 2014: story #3
Why?
Because this is where Vincent finally realized how he felt for Oliver. This is where the 'power' shifted, so to speak. I noticed how Vincent always called Oliver, Marsden, in the first story and the beginning of this one -- but during the final act, when Vincent came to Oliver to tell him that he is not marrying Lady Julianna, Vincent referred to him as "Oliver". That scene just clicked to me, right there. It was no longer just one-sided love.
The conflict was well-played, well-written. Considering Vincent's family and his position as second son, as well as the time period, it was something believable. I liked reading Oliver grew some spine too -- refusing to be just a secret male mistress. It was also more emotional, for me, than story #1 since both men were hurting in this (in story #1, Oliver was the only one pining). The emotion between the two was palpable, because they truly belong to one another....
Personal MM historical challenge January 2014: story #3
October 13, 2010
I liked this sequel to Bound by Deception as much as the first book. While realistic enough to mind the historical limitations put on two men who loved each other in the London of 1822, it still manages to convey the deep love Oliver and Vincent feel for each other.
Not that this is easy, or that all obstacles are quickly overcome. In fact, there are more in the second book than there were in the first, providing a real test for the two lovers.
Vincent is as infuriatingly idiotic as in the first book. It takes a truly close call for him to come to his senses. And Oliver finally put his foot down, insisting to be treated as a lover, not just a convenient 'booty call' (in today's lingo). I cheered him along all the way.
All in all, this was a wonderful sequel and I hope Oliver and Vincent's story continues.
Not that this is easy, or that all obstacles are quickly overcome. In fact, there are more in the second book than there were in the first, providing a real test for the two lovers.
Vincent is as infuriatingly idiotic as in the first book. It takes a truly close call for him to come to his senses. And Oliver finally put his foot down, insisting to be treated as a lover, not just a convenient 'booty call' (in today's lingo). I cheered him along all the way.
All in all, this was a wonderful sequel and I hope Oliver and Vincent's story continues.
October 17, 2010
This is a fantastic m/m Historical Romance/Erotica. With mild BDSM.
I loved Oliver!
I read book 1 Bound By Deception first then immediatley ordered and read this one. I'm not sure why they were released as two books. It would have made a perfect novel instead of 2 shorter books.
Read them together and you shall not be disappointed.
Enjoy!
Can't wait to read more from Ava March.
I loved Oliver!
I read book 1 Bound By Deception first then immediatley ordered and read this one. I'm not sure why they were released as two books. It would have made a perfect novel instead of 2 shorter books.
Read them together and you shall not be disappointed.
Enjoy!
Can't wait to read more from Ava March.
February 22, 2018
Oliver and Vincent have been together for six months and all is going well, until Vincent bows to pressure from his father to court a woman in order to provide a back-up heir for his elder brother. I really liked the emotional component to this book in the series, as Vincent works his way through his issues with his father and finally realizes that he truly loves Oliver and can't imagine life without him. 4 stars.
October 26, 2014
3.5 Stars
I liked the kinky scenes that end cap this installment quite a bit. The inevitable conflict keeps them apart for much of this one. Enjoyable read as are most of Ms. March's works at least those I've read.
I liked the kinky scenes that end cap this installment quite a bit. The inevitable conflict keeps them apart for much of this one. Enjoyable read as are most of Ms. March's works at least those I've read.
November 15, 2017
4.0 Stars
Oh thank fuck. I thought my Book-Fu was broken.
Lovely, sexy period piece here with tons of hot sex. I actually thought there was a good bit of character development for such a short book and I really liked that little conversation there at the end. So realistic and honest.
Oh thank fuck. I thought my Book-Fu was broken.
Lovely, sexy period piece here with tons of hot sex. I actually thought there was a good bit of character development for such a short book and I really liked that little conversation there at the end. So realistic and honest.
Want to read
December 2, 2018And here's the other awesome gift from Shh...it's a secret! I seriously cannot wait for these, up next after my Christmas reads. :) Thank you. xxx
February 19, 2011
Oliver and Vincent are deliciously bound together in a historical Regency romance. This is a continuation of their romance that started with Bound By Deception. Light bdsm and great sex. Glad I live in this current era where I can openly declare my love for my husband.
November 7, 2015
Review originally posted on The Book Adventures of Annelise Lestrange :)
To read my review on the full Bound series, please see it here or on my blog :D
To read my review on the full Bound series, please see it here or on my blog :D
June 29, 2010
This review of the first two books of Ava March’s Bound series was originally published at my blog. It contains information about both books.
Genre & Keywords:
M/M, Historical, Regency England, Friends become lovers, D/s, Bondage
Series:
Bound series. So far there are 2 books, and one free short story, in this series. All three have the same main characters, Oliver and Vincent, in it.
Why I read the books:
Some of my blog friends read and reviewed these books, after they had caught my eye at the Loose Id site. But I was hesitant because of the historical element. Especially Mandi from Smexybooks knew how to convince me to read them.
Storyline of Bound by Deception:
Oliver tricks his ‘straight’ friend Vincent to spend a night with him after he finds out he’s gay. Vincent surprises him with his unusual BDSM preference. Oliver succeeds in keeping his identity a secret, Vincent can’t forget the man and tries to find him. When secrets are revealed all there’s left is to find a way to be together, although that’s not easy in Regency England.
My opinion in short of Bound by Deception:
Bound by Deception is one of those romances that let me forget my surroundings to become entirely wrapped up in, in this case, the vicissitudes of Oliver’s and Vincent’s life. Set in Regency England this novel shows some of society’s behavior towards homosexuality as a reason for conflict in their relationship, but aside from that the story didn’t feel too historical, to my relief. The inner turmoil and relationship issues were the main focus altogether. I completely enjoyed Ms. March narrating skills, her writing is beautiful, lucid and compelling, which makes her work easy to read. After finishing the novel I felt a bit unsatisfied about the happily ever after, and luckily for my peace of mind the sequel Bound To Him was already written and available.
~~~~~
Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
Heat level: 3 of 3 flames
~~~~~
Storyline of Bound to Him:
Six months later. Vincent thinks all is going well between him and his lover, but Oliver doesn’t agree. He would like Vincent to become less cold and distant and acknowledge their relationship more. When Vincent’s father asks him to marry his elder brother’s lover for political reasons, Vincent ponders it and another conflict is added to their relationship.
My opinion in short of Bound to Him:
Bound to Him is even more gripping and compelling than its prequel Bound by Deception. The build up to a big misunderstanding is inevitable. The tension and angst level are rising high and I loved every minute of it. My heart ached badly at one point and again I could’ve happily smacked Vincent once or twice, but he redeemed himself in the last part of the book with one of the most beautiful HEA scenes. As well as in the first book I was way more sympathizing with Oliver than with Vincent, but in the end I adored both. And, not unimportant, the love scenes were again ultimately satisfying and orgasmic.
~~~~~
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Heat level: 3 of 3 flames
~~~~~
What’s more to know about these books:
• Characters
Vincent and Oliver are both second sons of the aristocracy and gay, but otherwise they are completely different. Not only is one rich and the other not. Vincent is also more distant and cold than Oliver, he’s the one who thinks things through while Oliver just acts according his feelings. Vincent is the Dom, Oliver the sub. Both are great heroes, but I must admit that I loved Oliver most. He’s adorable and sexy and we know from the beginning that he’s in love with Vincent since ages. With him you can’t help sympathizing, he deserves to be happy, and at some point I wanted to slap Vincent for making Oliver wait and hurt. Both are well-rounded characters and acting consistently throughout the two books.
• POV
Both men’s alternating points of view are told in third person. At the beginning of the first book, for a significant amount of pages, only Oliver’s POV is shown, which makes identifying with him the logic and easy thing to do. Fortunately, we also get Vincent POV, for example in his search for the mystery man in the first book and also in other scenes, both in the first and second book. Ms. March managed to convey the feeling of being in their heads perfectly.
• Plot
Really not much happens, especially in the first book. There are a few long and memorable scenes that are detailed and intense. And in between some connecting scenes hold everything together. The first book opens with an introduction to and the performance of one of the hottest BDSM scenes I’ve ever read, which drags you into the story with compelling sentences and the vivid description of occurrences and feelings. No matter if you want to or not, you have to keep reading, it’s inescapable. And the overwhelming tension of that scene remains a presence during the rest of the story too. When I finished the first book an unconsciously held breath escaped. And I immediately wanted to read more about this couple. Luckily, there already was a sequel out to fulfill my need.
The second book has a richer plot, in which more of historical society plays a part and in which Vincent’s father is having a devious role. This plot is, like that of the first book, tension filled, which adds to the suspense and the intensity of the reading experience. The second book also delivered the most beautiful HEA scene! Finally.
• Smexing
M/M. D/s. These are amazingly erotic reads, really! The main reason why I found the smexing so fabulous and scorching hot, was because these scenes are written from within the character’s heads and hearts. Emotions and feelings accompany all the sexy visuals. The BDSM consists mainly of bondage, some whipping and teasing, imo the best variant of BDSM in romance novels there is. It’s not the hardcore stuff at all and Vincent and Oliver are principally a Dom and sub, not a Master and slave, which is how I prefer them.
• Writing style
Compelling and beautiful sentences seduce you to surrender to Vincent’s and Oliver’s world, and step into this other era. Ms. March is a master in creating moments of intensity that makes you feel isolated from your actual surroundings where nothing else exists any longer than what happens with her protags. These ‘moments’ can sometimes go on for over 40 pages in which, on the outside, nothing much seems to happen, but the opposite is true. In those 40 pages we are regaled with such a richness of information. Not the boring-detailed-irrelevant-description kind of information that only serves to slow down a story and add some artificial suspense. No, it’s an elaborate, heart-felt, intense description of sensations. Ms. March is definitely a very skillful writer.
Favorite scene/quote:
I’ll pick one from the first book, because my favorite scene from the second book is too spoilerish. The one from the first book is the one in which Vincent feels confused after he just discovered that his mystery man is actually his old friend Oliver (Marsden), and in which Oliver shows him his feelings: *sigh, you gotta love Oliver*
Linking:
Ava March’s website | blog | on Goodreads
Buy the Bound Series here
Download Deliberately Unbound for free here
The books in this series:
# 1: Bound by Deception
# 2: Bound to Him
# 2.5: Deliberately Unbound (Free short story)
Genre & Keywords:
M/M, Historical, Regency England, Friends become lovers, D/s, Bondage
Series:
Bound series. So far there are 2 books, and one free short story, in this series. All three have the same main characters, Oliver and Vincent, in it.
Why I read the books:
Some of my blog friends read and reviewed these books, after they had caught my eye at the Loose Id site. But I was hesitant because of the historical element. Especially Mandi from Smexybooks knew how to convince me to read them.
Storyline of Bound by Deception:
Oliver tricks his ‘straight’ friend Vincent to spend a night with him after he finds out he’s gay. Vincent surprises him with his unusual BDSM preference. Oliver succeeds in keeping his identity a secret, Vincent can’t forget the man and tries to find him. When secrets are revealed all there’s left is to find a way to be together, although that’s not easy in Regency England.
My opinion in short of Bound by Deception:
Bound by Deception is one of those romances that let me forget my surroundings to become entirely wrapped up in, in this case, the vicissitudes of Oliver’s and Vincent’s life. Set in Regency England this novel shows some of society’s behavior towards homosexuality as a reason for conflict in their relationship, but aside from that the story didn’t feel too historical, to my relief. The inner turmoil and relationship issues were the main focus altogether. I completely enjoyed Ms. March narrating skills, her writing is beautiful, lucid and compelling, which makes her work easy to read. After finishing the novel I felt a bit unsatisfied about the happily ever after, and luckily for my peace of mind the sequel Bound To Him was already written and available.
~~~~~
Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
Heat level: 3 of 3 flames
~~~~~
Storyline of Bound to Him:
Six months later. Vincent thinks all is going well between him and his lover, but Oliver doesn’t agree. He would like Vincent to become less cold and distant and acknowledge their relationship more. When Vincent’s father asks him to marry his elder brother’s lover for political reasons, Vincent ponders it and another conflict is added to their relationship.
My opinion in short of Bound to Him:
Bound to Him is even more gripping and compelling than its prequel Bound by Deception. The build up to a big misunderstanding is inevitable. The tension and angst level are rising high and I loved every minute of it. My heart ached badly at one point and again I could’ve happily smacked Vincent once or twice, but he redeemed himself in the last part of the book with one of the most beautiful HEA scenes. As well as in the first book I was way more sympathizing with Oliver than with Vincent, but in the end I adored both. And, not unimportant, the love scenes were again ultimately satisfying and orgasmic.
~~~~~
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Heat level: 3 of 3 flames
~~~~~
What’s more to know about these books:
• Characters
Vincent and Oliver are both second sons of the aristocracy and gay, but otherwise they are completely different. Not only is one rich and the other not. Vincent is also more distant and cold than Oliver, he’s the one who thinks things through while Oliver just acts according his feelings. Vincent is the Dom, Oliver the sub. Both are great heroes, but I must admit that I loved Oliver most. He’s adorable and sexy and we know from the beginning that he’s in love with Vincent since ages. With him you can’t help sympathizing, he deserves to be happy, and at some point I wanted to slap Vincent for making Oliver wait and hurt. Both are well-rounded characters and acting consistently throughout the two books.
• POV
Both men’s alternating points of view are told in third person. At the beginning of the first book, for a significant amount of pages, only Oliver’s POV is shown, which makes identifying with him the logic and easy thing to do. Fortunately, we also get Vincent POV, for example in his search for the mystery man in the first book and also in other scenes, both in the first and second book. Ms. March managed to convey the feeling of being in their heads perfectly.
• Plot
Really not much happens, especially in the first book. There are a few long and memorable scenes that are detailed and intense. And in between some connecting scenes hold everything together. The first book opens with an introduction to and the performance of one of the hottest BDSM scenes I’ve ever read, which drags you into the story with compelling sentences and the vivid description of occurrences and feelings. No matter if you want to or not, you have to keep reading, it’s inescapable. And the overwhelming tension of that scene remains a presence during the rest of the story too. When I finished the first book an unconsciously held breath escaped. And I immediately wanted to read more about this couple. Luckily, there already was a sequel out to fulfill my need.
The second book has a richer plot, in which more of historical society plays a part and in which Vincent’s father is having a devious role. This plot is, like that of the first book, tension filled, which adds to the suspense and the intensity of the reading experience. The second book also delivered the most beautiful HEA scene! Finally.
• Smexing
M/M. D/s. These are amazingly erotic reads, really! The main reason why I found the smexing so fabulous and scorching hot, was because these scenes are written from within the character’s heads and hearts. Emotions and feelings accompany all the sexy visuals. The BDSM consists mainly of bondage, some whipping and teasing, imo the best variant of BDSM in romance novels there is. It’s not the hardcore stuff at all and Vincent and Oliver are principally a Dom and sub, not a Master and slave, which is how I prefer them.
• Writing style
Compelling and beautiful sentences seduce you to surrender to Vincent’s and Oliver’s world, and step into this other era. Ms. March is a master in creating moments of intensity that makes you feel isolated from your actual surroundings where nothing else exists any longer than what happens with her protags. These ‘moments’ can sometimes go on for over 40 pages in which, on the outside, nothing much seems to happen, but the opposite is true. In those 40 pages we are regaled with such a richness of information. Not the boring-detailed-irrelevant-description kind of information that only serves to slow down a story and add some artificial suspense. No, it’s an elaborate, heart-felt, intense description of sensations. Ms. March is definitely a very skillful writer.
Favorite scene/quote:
I’ll pick one from the first book, because my favorite scene from the second book is too spoilerish. The one from the first book is the one in which Vincent feels confused after he just discovered that his mystery man is actually his old friend Oliver (Marsden), and in which Oliver shows him his feelings: *sigh, you gotta love Oliver*
So where did this leave them? He didn’t want to lose Marsden’s friendship, but could they go on as they had, after all of this?
Was that what he really wanted? Or did he want more?
He didn’t lift his head when he heard the sound of footsteps approaching.
“Just know there’s one person who accepts you, and loves you for who you are, even if you don’t feel that way about yourself.” Marsden let out a heavy exhale. “Here. I know how much it means to you. I apologize for taking it and for upsetting you tonight. I just” -- he sighed again, the sound tired, beyond defeated -- “needed you to know it had been me.”
The pure heartache in Marsden’s voice tugged at Vincent’s chest, and all of his questions answered themselves. He wanted more.
Linking:
Ava March’s website | blog | on Goodreads
Buy the Bound Series here
Download Deliberately Unbound for free here
The books in this series:
# 1: Bound by Deception
# 2: Bound to Him
# 2.5: Deliberately Unbound (Free short story)
April 15, 2013
This book picks up approximately six months after Bound by Deception, and has a fairly smooth transition, but in a lot of ways, it felt like it picked up immediately after the first book. It would have seemed that after six months of spending time together, they would have been a little more close, but then again, Vincent wouldn't spend the night at Oliver's for fear of being seen and was traveling a lot. As I stated in my review of the first book, I think that if this book had been combined with the second book and just made into one large novel, it would have been a better balanced and well-rounded story. There was fairly decent character development into both Oliver and Vincent, where they came from, who they are, what society expects from them as sons of marquises, but I have to be honest, even though I understood where they were coming from, I felt like Vincent was kind of a dick to Oliver, and not in the physiological sense. And in the same vein, Oliver was a little whiny...kind of like I would imagine a wife being...complaining about Vincent being late for their get-togethers and things. Honestly, neither of these two are a catch, so I guess they do understand each other well, but because of the circumstances surrounding their relationship, the time period in which they live, and the fact that Vincent treats Oliver as a friend for most of the book, there wasn't a lot of romance to it. Solidly written, nice Regency tone, but in the end I just felt like there was something missing.
I will give him this...Vincent's gift for Oliver at the beginning was VERY sweet. *grin*
Click here to see the thoughtful gift from Vincent to Oliver!
I will give him this...Vincent's gift for Oliver at the beginning was VERY sweet. *grin*
Click here to see the thoughtful gift from Vincent to Oliver!
March 2, 2013
Oliver just wants a little bit of affirmation he is loved. Vincent is still seeking the approval of his asshole father. This is a universal desire so many people desperately seek. It's always a bit sad for me when a child is cruelly ignored by a parent. It's also a bit depressing when a lover is taken for granted.
In this second installment, the reader is subjected to conflicting agendas and a possible end to a blossoming relationship between Oliver and Vincent. Ms. March does an excellent job of showcasing the restrictions of the high society. She also shows how deeply each character feels about their lack of control and what they really want.
It would be remiss of me to not mention the hot D/s sex. Ms. March certainly knows how to write smexy D/s scenes. Oliver submitting to Vincent is delicious. Vincent's first experience with a blowjob and penetration is arousing. This book is recommending to kinky m/m readers who also enjoy historical romances.
In this second installment, the reader is subjected to conflicting agendas and a possible end to a blossoming relationship between Oliver and Vincent. Ms. March does an excellent job of showcasing the restrictions of the high society. She also shows how deeply each character feels about their lack of control and what they really want.
It would be remiss of me to not mention the hot D/s sex. Ms. March certainly knows how to write smexy D/s scenes. Oliver submitting to Vincent is delicious. Vincent's first experience with a blowjob and penetration is arousing. This book is recommending to kinky m/m readers who also enjoy historical romances.
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