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Magic Marked #1
Shadow Bound
Two women. Two lives. One goal—survive.
Aspen and Emma live on the cusp of two worlds. One side is a soul-sucking drag filled with micro-managing bosses and insomnia. On the other, life unfolds on a razor's edge as they discover they are more than what they seem, marked by the Fae and bound to the Shadows.
One night while each is out escaping her troubles, they’re abducted to the Shadows. Turned into unwilling pawns of the Fae’s creation, they are forced to participate in the Wild Hunt. Pitted against each other, they must choose: work together and possibly end the Hunt forever- or each play her own game of survival and win at all costs.
Aspen and Emma live on the cusp of two worlds. One side is a soul-sucking drag filled with micro-managing bosses and insomnia. On the other, life unfolds on a razor's edge as they discover they are more than what they seem, marked by the Fae and bound to the Shadows.
One night while each is out escaping her troubles, they’re abducted to the Shadows. Turned into unwilling pawns of the Fae’s creation, they are forced to participate in the Wild Hunt. Pitted against each other, they must choose: work together and possibly end the Hunt forever- or each play her own game of survival and win at all costs.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2018
89 people are currently reading
213 people want to read
About the author
Gena D. Lutz
24 books411 followersOfficial Goodreads page for New York Times & USA Today Best Selling paranormal and urban fantasy author Gena D. Lutz.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
July 4, 2018
Amazing!!!.
I loved this book. It has been one of the best ones I've read in a while. I hope there is a sequel coming soon.
I loved this book. It has been one of the best ones I've read in a while. I hope there is a sequel coming soon.
August 28, 2018
Shadow Bound is an amazing new series filled with drama, and danger...as well as the potential for a romance ;) When Emma and Aspen are abducted and awake in a strange new world, their new life threatening journey begins. In the Shadows is where these two women will learn their fate. Will they rise to the challenge, and kick fates ass, or will they crumble and die?
The story behind Shadow Bound is a world of fae that live in a cloaked society on earth. Some live among us, and some are bound to the Shadows. When fae dilute their blood line with humans, those half-breeds are considered lesser fae and are outcasts. Most if not all do not know their true heritage but are marked with what they believe as a birth mark. The humanettes, as they are referred to, all have magical properties, but some are more pronounced than others. The in depth portrayal of the fae is quiet intriguing, and unique for this reader. The fae come in many forms, as we find out during Emma and Aspen's ordeal. And the true nature of their abduction was for the two women to fight to the death in a yearly ritual called the Wild Hunt.
Emma and Aspen, strangers to each other, share a unique attribute, they are both half fae. The magic from their marks revealed their fae strength which is why they were chosen for the Wild Hunt. Over the next few weeks, they are trained for combat, all while coming to terms with what they really are. The transformation, and their abilities is phenomenal! Each woman possessing a strength different from the other, giving the reader an exciting anticipation for the battle! Emma was captured by Liam's people, and Liam is the nephew to the evil Ansel, who chose Aspen. The two are at odds, to say the least, and Liam is desperate to win the hunt and end the hunt once and for all. Ansel and Liam's history is very painful and treasonous, not only between them but to the fae kind. The constant battle between good and evil will never end until Liam finds out how to permanently stop Ansel. The entire story from beginning to end was captivating. I rooted for Emma, and empathized with Aspen through and through. I believe these two women will take everyone by surprise and bring Ansel down for good!
If you want a story that will just tug at your heart strings, and give you an amazing ride, then this is the book for you! Ansel will forever regret looking down on a humanette.
The story behind Shadow Bound is a world of fae that live in a cloaked society on earth. Some live among us, and some are bound to the Shadows. When fae dilute their blood line with humans, those half-breeds are considered lesser fae and are outcasts. Most if not all do not know their true heritage but are marked with what they believe as a birth mark. The humanettes, as they are referred to, all have magical properties, but some are more pronounced than others. The in depth portrayal of the fae is quiet intriguing, and unique for this reader. The fae come in many forms, as we find out during Emma and Aspen's ordeal. And the true nature of their abduction was for the two women to fight to the death in a yearly ritual called the Wild Hunt.
Emma and Aspen, strangers to each other, share a unique attribute, they are both half fae. The magic from their marks revealed their fae strength which is why they were chosen for the Wild Hunt. Over the next few weeks, they are trained for combat, all while coming to terms with what they really are. The transformation, and their abilities is phenomenal! Each woman possessing a strength different from the other, giving the reader an exciting anticipation for the battle! Emma was captured by Liam's people, and Liam is the nephew to the evil Ansel, who chose Aspen. The two are at odds, to say the least, and Liam is desperate to win the hunt and end the hunt once and for all. Ansel and Liam's history is very painful and treasonous, not only between them but to the fae kind. The constant battle between good and evil will never end until Liam finds out how to permanently stop Ansel. The entire story from beginning to end was captivating. I rooted for Emma, and empathized with Aspen through and through. I believe these two women will take everyone by surprise and bring Ansel down for good!
If you want a story that will just tug at your heart strings, and give you an amazing ride, then this is the book for you! Ansel will forever regret looking down on a humanette.
November 8, 2018
Great story. Ready for book 2.
August 4, 2018
I started this book a bit confused, not realizing it had two heroines and this was totally my fault. The chapters are laid out beautifully, telling a story of magic, empathy, strength and courage. Emma & Aspen are each a force to be reckoned with, they fight for their life in a place they didn't ask to be brought to. The end of the book caught me completely off guard, I kept trying to swipe to the next chapter. I am excited for the next book and to read more about Emma, Aspen and The Shadows.
August 7, 2018
Captivating story telling. You can get lost inside the world she created. You are both believing every word and thankful that you are not the characters you get to know Very real twists let you feel their challenges, fears and struggles to believe what you can embrace from the start. You are taken far away and yet right next door with two strong women.
April 2, 2019
An interesting start to a new series which I am looking forward to getting my hands on.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
September 5, 2019
Interesting intro into the story that made me excited for the rest of the story; the prologue was a great start. This story has a slow build up to the climax, but I enjoyed reading about the Fae World. The authors did a great job of setting the scene. There’s 2 POV’s, Aspen and Emma. Both women have been kidnapped to be the participants in the Wild Hunt; they are being trained by opposing sides, and whichever of them loses, dies. They are being forced to participate or they die; they have little choice. There’s an evil, powerful Fae that is causing major problems in the Fae World; he’s seemingly indestructible, so the threat is high. There’s more going on in the Fae World than Emma or Aspen understand and both women are needed to find the best way to navigate this difficult time. I liked both POV’s. I’m a bit partial to Emma’s because that’s were there was a bit of romance. Both girls are in training mode with trainers to get ready for the hunt; they have also had some magical elements awaken within them, so that was a fun element added to the story. I was entertained the whole time and found the ideas unique. There’s a lot that can be done with this series and I’m looking forward to seeing where it goes.
February 13, 2018
After reading the book summary for "Shadow Bound" I knew I wanted to read it. Additionally, I have read eight of the twelve books written by McKenzie Hunter and loved them. Unfortunately, "Shadow Bound" just wasn't the read for me.
First and foremost let me say that I stopped reading this book 62% in. Th storyline just drones on and on with each chapter alternating between two character's point of view, with little to no action. There is plenty of whining and additional characters being introduced but nothing really moving forward. The book summary indicates that two human women are brought into the fairy world to compete in the wild hunt so in my mind I thought 25-30% of the story would be devoted to world building and the majority would be about the hunt but that is just not the case. After 62% the wild hunt is still nowhere in and I just don't want to continue. Usually a book this size would take be less than half a day to read but I've been reading this book for several days because I can only tolerate it for short periods of time.
Sorry, Ms. Hunter but this book is just not for me. I 'ok stick with your other series.
First and foremost let me say that I stopped reading this book 62% in. Th storyline just drones on and on with each chapter alternating between two character's point of view, with little to no action. There is plenty of whining and additional characters being introduced but nothing really moving forward. The book summary indicates that two human women are brought into the fairy world to compete in the wild hunt so in my mind I thought 25-30% of the story would be devoted to world building and the majority would be about the hunt but that is just not the case. After 62% the wild hunt is still nowhere in and I just don't want to continue. Usually a book this size would take be less than half a day to read but I've been reading this book for several days because I can only tolerate it for short periods of time.
Sorry, Ms. Hunter but this book is just not for me. I 'ok stick with your other series.
February 15, 2018
ALL ABOUT THE CHARACTERS WITH A VERY PROMISING STORY
This book is only the beginning of a more complicated story. It lays down the foundation for the unveiling and unraveling of a hidden magical world, controlled by a family lead by two men on very opposite sides of the spectrum. The story is very promising and I am very much looking forward to the sequel.
This book, being the first of what is to be a series, focuses around two women who are abducted by these men, to be used as pawns in their cruel game as they battle each other for absolute control of their realm. It focuses mainly on making the reader well acquainted with the characters, the good, the bad and the ugly; as they struggle through events that have irrevocably altered all they thought to be true. We get to see them fight not just to survive but to regain their freedom and their lives.
The authors wrote characters that run the gamut from, "I really sympathize " to "what an evil and heartless bitch".
It is light on the action and romance, but I see the promise for more in the sequel. Definitely worth reading.
This book is only the beginning of a more complicated story. It lays down the foundation for the unveiling and unraveling of a hidden magical world, controlled by a family lead by two men on very opposite sides of the spectrum. The story is very promising and I am very much looking forward to the sequel.
This book, being the first of what is to be a series, focuses around two women who are abducted by these men, to be used as pawns in their cruel game as they battle each other for absolute control of their realm. It focuses mainly on making the reader well acquainted with the characters, the good, the bad and the ugly; as they struggle through events that have irrevocably altered all they thought to be true. We get to see them fight not just to survive but to regain their freedom and their lives.
The authors wrote characters that run the gamut from, "I really sympathize " to "what an evil and heartless bitch".
It is light on the action and romance, but I see the promise for more in the sequel. Definitely worth reading.
January 29, 2018
I have never read anything by one of these authors, but I have read a couple by the other. One of the things I must mention is that this book wasn’t really anything like I expected. I generally don’t go into a book really expecting anything, but in this case, I was blown away. This book was totally different than anything I’ve read recently, in a good way. There wasn’t really a lot of action in a bad-guy-versus-good-guy way, but there was plenty of action in the two protagonists trying to get ready to fight in the Great Hunt, a win-or-die game. I really enjoyed the character development in this book, but there wasn’t much outside of training interaction. I do wish there was a little more movement in plot and a little bit more filling out of the world, but I think that will come in future books. I really liked the ending and can’t wait to see what happens next. Recommend! Thanks to the author for the e-book which I reviewed voluntarily.
January 30, 2018
A very interesting story about 2 women who have marks that they never knew the true meaning of until they wake in in the Shadows on different sides. One as a shifter and the other as a vampire. There's no leaving but as they find out if they can win the Wild Hunt they will get to survive.
A different type of paranormal story but it's a very good read. You have two sides of a family that want different things from this years hunt but both want to win. Emma and Aspen just want to survive this world they've been thrust in and don't understand. As they learn about what they've become and train for the Hunt, they meet different characters (and some of them truly are characters that will make you laugh). I had a little trouble getting into the story at the beginning but then I couldn't put it down.
A different type of paranormal story but it's a very good read. You have two sides of a family that want different things from this years hunt but both want to win. Emma and Aspen just want to survive this world they've been thrust in and don't understand. As they learn about what they've become and train for the Hunt, they meet different characters (and some of them truly are characters that will make you laugh). I had a little trouble getting into the story at the beginning but then I couldn't put it down.
January 29, 2018
Blown away
Having read a lot of McKenzie's previous work and knowing nothing about Gena, I wasnt sure what to expect of this collaboration. But both McKenzie and Gena rocked it.
Emma & Aspen have two different experience's in the Shadows, but both must compete in the wild hunt.
This first installment focuses on the preperations for said hunt and each chaper focuses on a different aspect of their new lives and those who want to help them
By the end you have questions of characters the girls meet, and you definitely want to know what comes next and I for one cant wait for the next installment.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Having read a lot of McKenzie's previous work and knowing nothing about Gena, I wasnt sure what to expect of this collaboration. But both McKenzie and Gena rocked it.
Emma & Aspen have two different experience's in the Shadows, but both must compete in the wild hunt.
This first installment focuses on the preperations for said hunt and each chaper focuses on a different aspect of their new lives and those who want to help them
By the end you have questions of characters the girls meet, and you definitely want to know what comes next and I for one cant wait for the next installment.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2018
Complicated
I enjoyed the story overall. I did find it very hard to get into it. At the start I had to force myself to push on. After several chapters, It began to be better and I got into the story. It had great build up throughout the book and then suddenly your hit with disappointment. The build up to the hunt, the purpose of the entire story, all the chapters of training and well, everything and it’s a huge let down. I like Hunter’s other work, and this was not on par with her other series. I will read the next one, but only because I’m hoping it’s better.
I enjoyed the story overall. I did find it very hard to get into it. At the start I had to force myself to push on. After several chapters, It began to be better and I got into the story. It had great build up throughout the book and then suddenly your hit with disappointment. The build up to the hunt, the purpose of the entire story, all the chapters of training and well, everything and it’s a huge let down. I like Hunter’s other work, and this was not on par with her other series. I will read the next one, but only because I’m hoping it’s better.
April 8, 2018
Intriguing read
This book explored an interesting concept in the world of the fae. For the book to work, both ladies had to have a caring heart, which in reality may not be the case when death is the other option. The main characters were likable if not deeply defined. Side characters were a bit cookie cutter, but worked well in the story. I look forward to seeing how these ladies do in the future and will read more!
This book explored an interesting concept in the world of the fae. For the book to work, both ladies had to have a caring heart, which in reality may not be the case when death is the other option. The main characters were likable if not deeply defined. Side characters were a bit cookie cutter, but worked well in the story. I look forward to seeing how these ladies do in the future and will read more!
August 10, 2018
What a different and awesome paranormal story this is. Two women, Emma Reese & Aspen Reid have marks they always thought were weird birthmarks. However, they are something much more which they will find out in a place called The Shadows! They go through quite an ordeal and come out changed and much stronger.
This is an edge-of-your-seat story with magic, angst and courage. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and can't wait for the second book to come out. I highly recommend.
This is an edge-of-your-seat story with magic, angst and courage. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and can't wait for the second book to come out. I highly recommend.
January 31, 2018
I am a huge McKenzie Hunter fan, I would read her shopping list if she put it up for sale :p
I wasn’t sure how things were going to turn out with a collaboration, I hoped for something good. What I got absolutely blew me away. These authors work so well together, Shadow Bound was a phenomenal read. I am so invested in the series! Can’t wait for the next one!
I wasn’t sure how things were going to turn out with a collaboration, I hoped for something good. What I got absolutely blew me away. These authors work so well together, Shadow Bound was a phenomenal read. I am so invested in the series! Can’t wait for the next one!
March 31, 2018
An intriguing new story line.
I like having something new that gives a different perspective of what is believed to be in same world as us but unseen. I'm sure you'll be looking forward to next book as I am. I believe book is going to satisfy those who love fantasy and hero's. I'm sure you'll be wanting to read next book in series as am I.
I like having something new that gives a different perspective of what is believed to be in same world as us but unseen. I'm sure you'll be looking forward to next book as I am. I believe book is going to satisfy those who love fantasy and hero's. I'm sure you'll be wanting to read next book in series as am I.
June 5, 2018
The wild hunt (vampires & shifters)
This is the first book I’ve read in which the story unfolded from two points of view. The action built slowly, this kept the focus on Emma and Aspen and how they came to terms with their evolution into the supernatural beings they needled to be to win the hunt. I can’t wait see how the story unfolds in the future.
This is the first book I’ve read in which the story unfolded from two points of view. The action built slowly, this kept the focus on Emma and Aspen and how they came to terms with their evolution into the supernatural beings they needled to be to win the hunt. I can’t wait see how the story unfolds in the future.
January 30, 2018
This book was different to a lot I have read it has two m/c and the chapters are split between the two, it was amazing and I loved it there was a great amount of character building and action all mixed together I highly recommend this book 📚😍
February 12, 2018
Great start
Great start to the first book and I'm so glad the stories combined near the end instead of going back and forth between characters. Lots of adventure and just a tid bit of maybe something spicy to come. Enjoyed this book thoroughly and can't wait for the next one.
Great start to the first book and I'm so glad the stories combined near the end instead of going back and forth between characters. Lots of adventure and just a tid bit of maybe something spicy to come. Enjoyed this book thoroughly and can't wait for the next one.
March 5, 2018
Great Book!
This book is a great read, it moves at a fast pace and is hard to put down. The main characters are wonderful and I found myself unable to chose a favorite between the two. I can't wait for book 2.
This book is a great read, it moves at a fast pace and is hard to put down. The main characters are wonderful and I found myself unable to chose a favorite between the two. I can't wait for book 2.
February 3, 2018
Good start for new series
Enjoyed story. Was engaged in story and wanted both main characters to win. Can't wait to see what happens in next book.
Enjoyed story. Was engaged in story and wanted both main characters to win. Can't wait to see what happens in next book.
April 12, 2018
Love it
What a great book the writing is amazing. Could not put this book down can't wait until the next one comes out.
What a great book the writing is amazing. Could not put this book down can't wait until the next one comes out.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews