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Mists of Eria #1
Bound by the Mist
A magic that's fading
Relian has lived a life that hasn’t changed in millennia, and he likes it that way. As Prince of the Erian people, he has his conscripted duties. And a human, even one as desirable as Cal, does not fit into them. But as the enemy darkindred knock on the borders and the magic of his people fades, he might just have to find room.
A love that's binding
College Student Cal Weston spends a good portion of her time trying to keep people from thinking she's crazy, including herself. And with good reason. But her carefully constructed reality is turned upside down when she discovers that Relian, the seductive elvin prince who has been starring in her sensuous fantasies, isn’t merely a myth and his magical kingdom really exists. Now she’s bound to an elf and stuck in a land where no one, least of all Relian, is willing to spill any answers about the truth of her arrival.
Two people, two worlds meet in the mist
Even as love grows between them, can they lay aside their differences to embrace a life together?
Relian has lived a life that hasn’t changed in millennia, and he likes it that way. As Prince of the Erian people, he has his conscripted duties. And a human, even one as desirable as Cal, does not fit into them. But as the enemy darkindred knock on the borders and the magic of his people fades, he might just have to find room.
A love that's binding
College Student Cal Weston spends a good portion of her time trying to keep people from thinking she's crazy, including herself. And with good reason. But her carefully constructed reality is turned upside down when she discovers that Relian, the seductive elvin prince who has been starring in her sensuous fantasies, isn’t merely a myth and his magical kingdom really exists. Now she’s bound to an elf and stuck in a land where no one, least of all Relian, is willing to spill any answers about the truth of her arrival.
Two people, two worlds meet in the mist
Even as love grows between them, can they lay aside their differences to embrace a life together?
294 pages, Paperback
First published January 24, 2012
312 people are currently reading
979 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Kumar
33 books74 followersI'm a mother and romance writer who grew up in small-town Indiana. I studied psychology in college and worked off and on in the mental health field over the years. I now reside in Southern California. When not spinning tales of romance and fantasy, I can often be found with my nose buried in a book. I also love going for walks with my youngest son and taking Zumba classes. One of my stories, Bound to the Elvin King, won Ind'Tale's 2015 RONE award for best Sci-Fi/Fantasy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 17, 2021
Excellent book
This was a great book, that I enjoyed very much. I found it intriguing and unique. Definitely worth reading. I loved the Author's imagination.
This was a great book, that I enjoyed very much. I found it intriguing and unique. Definitely worth reading. I loved the Author's imagination.
March 16, 2017
I.WAS.BORED!!!!! That about sums up why I gave this book 2 stars. Cal was so childish and annoying and took everything the wrong way. She was just down right irritating. The only time I cared for Relian was when he was being a soldier (which were basically the only parts I liked, the battles). The romance was boring, even when they finally had sex (which was at freaking 96%) it was nothing to write home about. I will not be continuing this series.
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February 3, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/3/2021)! 🎁
April 22, 2012
I'm now officially a HUGE fan of Lisa Kumar!
This is a well written, love story that brings to light the facts even though two people are from different backgrounds and are different beings; a perfect relationship with true love brought about by the hands of fate is possible.
Cal has had what I'll call a rocky road throughout her life. All she wants is to be normal and live a normal life. It is very hard for her to so when strange things appear in her life and in her dreams. All of that was soon sorted out when a mist sweeps her and her friends Maggie up and shifts them over to a new (yet familiar to Maggie) place. Her she sees the man that's been haunting her for her entire life and hopes to get answers as to the why and how.
A great fun filled adventure that grabs at you due to all of the vivid detail, wonderful characters and just all around great writing.
This is a well written, love story that brings to light the facts even though two people are from different backgrounds and are different beings; a perfect relationship with true love brought about by the hands of fate is possible.
Cal has had what I'll call a rocky road throughout her life. All she wants is to be normal and live a normal life. It is very hard for her to so when strange things appear in her life and in her dreams. All of that was soon sorted out when a mist sweeps her and her friends Maggie up and shifts them over to a new (yet familiar to Maggie) place. Her she sees the man that's been haunting her for her entire life and hopes to get answers as to the why and how.
A great fun filled adventure that grabs at you due to all of the vivid detail, wonderful characters and just all around great writing.
February 15, 2016
I’ve got several things to point out in this review and it’s going to be a mixture between sour and sweet. With that said, here goes the real deal.
Starting off by the cover…This book screamed cheesy. The guy is handsome, but the hair is so obviously not his. It looks cut and pasted on his head. So I couldn’t help laughing at the detail. And don’t get me started on the background so badly photoshoped. Why can’t they get elf ears on him? Is it so hard to get a makeup artist or buy fake ears and paste them? So Unfulfilling…
The story resembles another book I red and reviewed called “Eyes of Fire”, which stun me. I checked the release dates, and this was published before it. So that saves it from another pointer that would have been harsh.
All in all it’s the same story with a different kind of heroin and a more detailed story-line, which I appreciated very much. Basically, the novel introduces us to a human girl who’s had steamy dreams over a hot dashing elf with dark hair. She’s had a tortured life with this fact, seeing things no one sees and losing her sanity. Her friend is the only one who believes her and a mist that was haunting takes them to the realm of the elves, where our heroine meets her dashing prince and his father the king. And alas, here is where I end my summary. I don’t want to spoil much more.
Here go the good things and bad:
1)Brilliant depiction of the setting and atmosphere in the elf realm. Great defined details that capture your eye like candy.
2)King Talion is by far the best character in this book. He has this personality that drives you mad. Definitely sweet and sour. And his interaction with Cal’s friend makes you go wild with fever. He’s snobby, cold, refined, elegant, beautiful, sarcastic and keeps many shades behind his words. He is a mystery and a delight to read about. You get a hot and cold feeling every time you gaze at his words. Sending butterflies to your stomach and sometimes even inspiring rage. He is so complex and wondrous. I can’t help but gasp!
Thranduil… could be a great fit really.
Oh my!
GRRRRRRRR! ;P
Who the hell wants the Prince...When you can have a King! Ok...stopping now...lol!
3)As to Cal…Well our heroine is painful to read about. She is so...So… Unnerving! I simply don’t get her. Every one of her thoughts was pure torture. She is just dull.
4)As to prince Relian…Well… Can’t say I didn't like him. He lacks that spark. I don’t know how to describe it. No doubt perfect fit for our heroine. But he deserved better really…
5)There is no real plot developed from my perspective. Or maybe it’s diminished by the love affair between Relian and Cal. Which I wouldn't mind if it weren't the main reason why our heroine is brought by the mist in the first place. So that bugs me a lot.
6)Perfect dialogues. Beautiful! Simply captivating. Mostly the elf dialogues where the ones that surprised. I loved that it reflected perfectly the way they conduct themselves in the way they talk. Other books I’ve read haven’t managed that. It reflected perfectly the culture, the manners, the thoughts, the way they express themselves. I was blown away. I really believed they were elves. So well done.
7)Good writing. But very, very, slow paced. Almost boring sometimes, this is a pity really…
I thought Lisa could have risked and twist a lot more. But she kept it simple. At least in this book…
I really expected more…Nonetheless I was entertained and was left intrigued to read the second book, which is based on Talion and Cal’s friend. Now that I want to read!
I just didn’t feel satisfied with this one. There is nothing to cause any thrill or surprise. It delivers a simple, easy/ cheesy romance.
I love how Lisa writes though. Very good writing! I wasn’t thrilled with her story though... But I enjoyed many characters and the social aspect of the elf realm.
All in all, I’m giving this book a 3.5 star, because it was regular.
I will be checking the next book. Talion’s story must be more interesting by far.
Starting off by the cover…This book screamed cheesy. The guy is handsome, but the hair is so obviously not his. It looks cut and pasted on his head. So I couldn’t help laughing at the detail. And don’t get me started on the background so badly photoshoped. Why can’t they get elf ears on him? Is it so hard to get a makeup artist or buy fake ears and paste them? So Unfulfilling…
The story resembles another book I red and reviewed called “Eyes of Fire”, which stun me. I checked the release dates, and this was published before it. So that saves it from another pointer that would have been harsh.
All in all it’s the same story with a different kind of heroin and a more detailed story-line, which I appreciated very much. Basically, the novel introduces us to a human girl who’s had steamy dreams over a hot dashing elf with dark hair. She’s had a tortured life with this fact, seeing things no one sees and losing her sanity. Her friend is the only one who believes her and a mist that was haunting takes them to the realm of the elves, where our heroine meets her dashing prince and his father the king. And alas, here is where I end my summary. I don’t want to spoil much more.
Here go the good things and bad:
1)Brilliant depiction of the setting and atmosphere in the elf realm. Great defined details that capture your eye like candy.
2)King Talion is by far the best character in this book. He has this personality that drives you mad. Definitely sweet and sour. And his interaction with Cal’s friend makes you go wild with fever. He’s snobby, cold, refined, elegant, beautiful, sarcastic and keeps many shades behind his words. He is a mystery and a delight to read about. You get a hot and cold feeling every time you gaze at his words. Sending butterflies to your stomach and sometimes even inspiring rage. He is so complex and wondrous. I can’t help but gasp!
Thranduil… could be a great fit really.
Oh my!
GRRRRRRRR! ;P
Who the hell wants the Prince...When you can have a King! Ok...stopping now...lol!
3)As to Cal…Well our heroine is painful to read about. She is so...So… Unnerving! I simply don’t get her. Every one of her thoughts was pure torture. She is just dull.
4)As to prince Relian…Well… Can’t say I didn't like him. He lacks that spark. I don’t know how to describe it. No doubt perfect fit for our heroine. But he deserved better really…
5)There is no real plot developed from my perspective. Or maybe it’s diminished by the love affair between Relian and Cal. Which I wouldn't mind if it weren't the main reason why our heroine is brought by the mist in the first place. So that bugs me a lot.
6)Perfect dialogues. Beautiful! Simply captivating. Mostly the elf dialogues where the ones that surprised. I loved that it reflected perfectly the way they conduct themselves in the way they talk. Other books I’ve read haven’t managed that. It reflected perfectly the culture, the manners, the thoughts, the way they express themselves. I was blown away. I really believed they were elves. So well done.
7)Good writing. But very, very, slow paced. Almost boring sometimes, this is a pity really…
I thought Lisa could have risked and twist a lot more. But she kept it simple. At least in this book…
I really expected more…Nonetheless I was entertained and was left intrigued to read the second book, which is based on Talion and Cal’s friend. Now that I want to read!
I just didn’t feel satisfied with this one. There is nothing to cause any thrill or surprise. It delivers a simple, easy/ cheesy romance.
I love how Lisa writes though. Very good writing! I wasn’t thrilled with her story though... But I enjoyed many characters and the social aspect of the elf realm.
All in all, I’m giving this book a 3.5 star, because it was regular.
I will be checking the next book. Talion’s story must be more interesting by far.
May 28, 2012
I really enjoyed Bound by the Mist. It was a well developed love story were two very different beings overcome obsticles, some of which are rather large to overcome, and forge a love that will last regardless of any bond between them.
I love the fact the love between was not something that just sprung up overnight. The author actually had a more realistic view of the love that grew between them.
Relian is the perfect hero, protective and strong but sensitive and very thoughtful. Cal was shy and very sweet, a total sweetheart. The two were perfectly matched for each other.
I also think the story set a solid foundation for a fantastic series with its array of very colorful characters. I look forward to reading more from this author!
Also reviewed at [Insert clever quip here]
I love the fact the love between was not something that just sprung up overnight. The author actually had a more realistic view of the love that grew between them.
Relian is the perfect hero, protective and strong but sensitive and very thoughtful. Cal was shy and very sweet, a total sweetheart. The two were perfectly matched for each other.
I also think the story set a solid foundation for a fantastic series with its array of very colorful characters. I look forward to reading more from this author!
Also reviewed at [Insert clever quip here]
February 15, 2014
“Bound by the Mist” links two very different people together across realms.
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
February 1, 2024
This wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t great. Very slow with no real storyline? I kept hanging in there thinking it would get smuttier, and while the story picked up a bit around 60%, it got boring again around 80% and never got smutty. It isn’t something I’d recommend to a friend, but if someone wanted to read it I wouldn’t deter someone from it either because there’s nothing objectively bad about it. With that said, I personally wasn’t entertained enough to keep going in the series.
February 1, 2012
Well I don't really know where to start.... so I will just say I did enjoy this book although it was different from what I normally read and different from what I was expecting.
I am usually into the more wham bam thank you mam type romances. This story of Cal and Relian is a longer more realistic tale of what would happen between two people bound against there will.
Cal is a human who has had dreams and visions her whole life, once which involves seeing Relian. She foolishly tells a friend and this gets back to her school her parents and needless to say her life is made pretty difficult after that. She is made to believe that these visions are all in her head and pretty much excluded by everyone for being weird and strange.
So when these visions start again when she is older and they seem to focus on a sexual relationship between her and Relian, Cal is understandably distraught.She just wants a normal college life.
Relian isn't any happier having his controlled life turned upside down by his nightly dreams of a human woman.
Anyway as the book goes on it seems these two are fated to be together and with her friend Maggie (who is an awesome character i just loved and related to her the best) Cal is transported through the veil to her bonded Relian and the Elven Kingdom of Erian.
The book from then on deals with alot of misunderstandings between the couple and there two races? I think thats what you would call it anyway. There seems to be a magical reason that neither of them understand why they have been brought together, this gets talked about throught out the book a lot but I felt there could of been more explained maybe there will be a sequel. It sort of left you thinking there would be. Anyway I definitely want to find out if anything is going to happen between Maggie and Relians father the king.
I got sidetraked. So the romatic relationship between the main couple blooms slowly, its very sweet. Although I would of liked a bit more passion, I know there are people out there that get frustrated by the books now a days and the instant love alot of characters seem to fall into. Like I said this book is different like that and I feel it would be a nice change for a lot of readers.
This story did keep me interested, I just kept on going because the answers I wanted always seemd to be just round the corner, you would get some answers and then I would have more questions so if you don't like a predictable plot, this book is for you. I do feel as I have said that some things were left unanswered so I am hoping that this is the beginning of a series???? Is it Ms Kumar??
Anyway enjoyable read, 3.5 stars :)
Merged review:
Well I don't really know where to start.... so I will just say I did enjoy this book although it was different from what I normally read and different from what I was expecting.
I am usually into the more wham bam thank you mam type romances. This story of Cal and Relian is a longer more realistic tale of what would happen between two people bound against there will.
Cal is a human who has had dreams and visions her whole life, once which involves seeing Relian. She foolishly tells a friend and this gets back to her school her parents and needless to say her life is made pretty difficult after that. She is made to believe that these visions are all in her head and pretty much excluded by everyone for being weird and strange.
So when these visions start again when she is older and they seem to focus on a sexual relationship between her and Relian, Cal is understandably distraught.She just wants a normal college life.
Relian isn't any happier having his controlled life turned upside down by his nightly dreams of a human woman.
Anyway as the book goes on it seems these two are fated to be together and with her friend Maggie (who is an awesome character i just loved and related to her the best) Cal is transported through the veil to her bonded Relian and the Elven Kingdom of Erian.
The book from then on deals with alot of misunderstandings between the couple and there two races? I think thats what you would call it anyway. There seems to be a magical reason that neither of them understand why they have been brought together, this gets talked about throught out the book a lot but I felt there could of been more explained maybe there will be a sequel. It sort of left you thinking there would be. Anyway I definitely want to find out if anything is going to happen between Maggie and Relians father the king.
I got sidetraked. So the romatic relationship between the main couple blooms slowly, its very sweet. Although I would of liked a bit more passion, I know there are people out there that get frustrated by the books now a days and the instant love alot of characters seem to fall into. Like I said this book is different like that and I feel it would be a nice change for a lot of readers.
This story did keep me interested, I just kept on going because the answers I wanted always seemd to be just round the corner, you would get some answers and then I would have more questions so if you don't like a predictable plot, this book is for you. I do feel as I have said that some things were left unanswered so I am hoping that this is the beginning of a series???? Is it Ms Kumar??
Anyway enjoyable read, 3.5 stars :)
I am usually into the more wham bam thank you mam type romances. This story of Cal and Relian is a longer more realistic tale of what would happen between two people bound against there will.
Cal is a human who has had dreams and visions her whole life, once which involves seeing Relian. She foolishly tells a friend and this gets back to her school her parents and needless to say her life is made pretty difficult after that. She is made to believe that these visions are all in her head and pretty much excluded by everyone for being weird and strange.
So when these visions start again when she is older and they seem to focus on a sexual relationship between her and Relian, Cal is understandably distraught.She just wants a normal college life.
Relian isn't any happier having his controlled life turned upside down by his nightly dreams of a human woman.
Anyway as the book goes on it seems these two are fated to be together and with her friend Maggie (who is an awesome character i just loved and related to her the best) Cal is transported through the veil to her bonded Relian and the Elven Kingdom of Erian.
The book from then on deals with alot of misunderstandings between the couple and there two races? I think thats what you would call it anyway. There seems to be a magical reason that neither of them understand why they have been brought together, this gets talked about throught out the book a lot but I felt there could of been more explained maybe there will be a sequel. It sort of left you thinking there would be. Anyway I definitely want to find out if anything is going to happen between Maggie and Relians father the king.
I got sidetraked. So the romatic relationship between the main couple blooms slowly, its very sweet. Although I would of liked a bit more passion, I know there are people out there that get frustrated by the books now a days and the instant love alot of characters seem to fall into. Like I said this book is different like that and I feel it would be a nice change for a lot of readers.
This story did keep me interested, I just kept on going because the answers I wanted always seemd to be just round the corner, you would get some answers and then I would have more questions so if you don't like a predictable plot, this book is for you. I do feel as I have said that some things were left unanswered so I am hoping that this is the beginning of a series???? Is it Ms Kumar??
Anyway enjoyable read, 3.5 stars :)
Merged review:
Well I don't really know where to start.... so I will just say I did enjoy this book although it was different from what I normally read and different from what I was expecting.
I am usually into the more wham bam thank you mam type romances. This story of Cal and Relian is a longer more realistic tale of what would happen between two people bound against there will.
Cal is a human who has had dreams and visions her whole life, once which involves seeing Relian. She foolishly tells a friend and this gets back to her school her parents and needless to say her life is made pretty difficult after that. She is made to believe that these visions are all in her head and pretty much excluded by everyone for being weird and strange.
So when these visions start again when she is older and they seem to focus on a sexual relationship between her and Relian, Cal is understandably distraught.She just wants a normal college life.
Relian isn't any happier having his controlled life turned upside down by his nightly dreams of a human woman.
Anyway as the book goes on it seems these two are fated to be together and with her friend Maggie (who is an awesome character i just loved and related to her the best) Cal is transported through the veil to her bonded Relian and the Elven Kingdom of Erian.
The book from then on deals with alot of misunderstandings between the couple and there two races? I think thats what you would call it anyway. There seems to be a magical reason that neither of them understand why they have been brought together, this gets talked about throught out the book a lot but I felt there could of been more explained maybe there will be a sequel. It sort of left you thinking there would be. Anyway I definitely want to find out if anything is going to happen between Maggie and Relians father the king.
I got sidetraked. So the romatic relationship between the main couple blooms slowly, its very sweet. Although I would of liked a bit more passion, I know there are people out there that get frustrated by the books now a days and the instant love alot of characters seem to fall into. Like I said this book is different like that and I feel it would be a nice change for a lot of readers.
This story did keep me interested, I just kept on going because the answers I wanted always seemd to be just round the corner, you would get some answers and then I would have more questions so if you don't like a predictable plot, this book is for you. I do feel as I have said that some things were left unanswered so I am hoping that this is the beginning of a series???? Is it Ms Kumar??
Anyway enjoyable read, 3.5 stars :)
March 13, 2015
Its interesting but I feel like the best friend and the other characters really dulled it down a bit they kept getting in the way of relationship development along with the language barrier. I felt like the bond was being used as an excuse to bring the two characters together.The love scene was really short and disappointing considering she made readers wait until the very end it would be a bit more detailed and memorable but alas it was not.There also was not anything unique about Relian I could latch onto ok so he's a prince thats good at just about everything no real special talents for me to appreciate.
The story was interesting there really are not very many romance stories about elves it was a nice change from vampires and were-animals. I also really like elves but there are so few romances with them in it! I was hoping to be able to immerse myself in it and enjoy the story but...... The lack of information about Eria in general gives me the impression the it hasn't been completely 'made' since the story revolves around Cal learning about Eria this poses a rather big problem.The elves withhold information constantly and pointlessly because I mean come on where are they gonna go! The humans are literally stuck there its hard to get into the elven world when there is so little real information given. There is a distinct lack of art, music, and culture I would normally associate with elves as well.
It has been a month since I read the story I liked it enough to get the sequel which I still have not finished because Maggie is a frustrating character.
The book itself was not very memorable for me I enjoyed reading it at the time so it was worth the money I spent but I would not pay more than 5 dollars for it. It is an adult novel but with the real lack of action I kept getting this young adult feel if it were not for the few implied/actual sexual scenes sprinkled here and there I would think it was one. I would say the other reason for this being that Maggie and Cal and even Relian don't really act like adults but that would be a huge stretch so I won't go there.
However, there is a contradiction to how the elves are described as lacking emotion and yet they keep showing tons of it. Feelings of prejudice is a large emotion in an of itself and its used a lot in this story.
The story was interesting there really are not very many romance stories about elves it was a nice change from vampires and were-animals. I also really like elves but there are so few romances with them in it! I was hoping to be able to immerse myself in it and enjoy the story but...... The lack of information about Eria in general gives me the impression the it hasn't been completely 'made' since the story revolves around Cal learning about Eria this poses a rather big problem.The elves withhold information constantly and pointlessly because I mean come on where are they gonna go! The humans are literally stuck there its hard to get into the elven world when there is so little real information given. There is a distinct lack of art, music, and culture I would normally associate with elves as well.
It has been a month since I read the story I liked it enough to get the sequel which I still have not finished because Maggie is a frustrating character.
The book itself was not very memorable for me I enjoyed reading it at the time so it was worth the money I spent but I would not pay more than 5 dollars for it. It is an adult novel but with the real lack of action I kept getting this young adult feel if it were not for the few implied/actual sexual scenes sprinkled here and there I would think it was one. I would say the other reason for this being that Maggie and Cal and even Relian don't really act like adults but that would be a huge stretch so I won't go there.
However, there is a contradiction to how the elves are described as lacking emotion and yet they keep showing tons of it. Feelings of prejudice is a large emotion in an of itself and its used a lot in this story.
January 9, 2016
I REALLY, really, really, really loved this book. Lisa Kumar has earned herself another enthusiastic fan!
For me, there are a few characteristics that mark a great writer:
1. Do you think about the story when you're not reading it?
2. Do you think about the story after you're done reading it?
3. Do you want to hang out in that world with those characters even if NOTHING is going on?
4. Can the writer take you there with as few descriptions as possible? As in, is in concise and potent to the point that you don't even realize the setting is being set, but yet you have the PERFECT image of it in your mind.
A++ for all four questions for Bound by the Mist.
I really enjoyed the beautiful language and names of the characters. They really gave me a feel for the land and the people.
For fantasy in particular the world building and how the character is introduced to the fantasy world is KEY. Absolutely essential. This part of the story probably matters more to me than anything else. And Bound by the Mist gets an A++. The introduction to Eria and Cal's history with it was complete and riveting in it's simplicity. It wasn't overdone. And it was PERFECT.
Getting to know Cal and Relian, as well as the other characters, was a lot of fun and kept me on my toes. I found them all to be likeable, interesting, and complex.
Tyler Hoechlin as Relian
Bryce Dallas Howard as Calantha
The idea of being mysteriously bound together involuntarily and having feelings for someone you don't even have control over could come off as creepy, but I totally did not get that feel when reading. I thought that the development of feelings and progression of the relationship between Relian and Cal to be wonderful and I couldn't get enough of it.
Can't wait to read the next book in the series (as well as checking out Lisa's other books). Starting Bound to the Elvin King tonight!
For me, there are a few characteristics that mark a great writer:
1. Do you think about the story when you're not reading it?
2. Do you think about the story after you're done reading it?
3. Do you want to hang out in that world with those characters even if NOTHING is going on?
4. Can the writer take you there with as few descriptions as possible? As in, is in concise and potent to the point that you don't even realize the setting is being set, but yet you have the PERFECT image of it in your mind.
A++ for all four questions for Bound by the Mist.
I really enjoyed the beautiful language and names of the characters. They really gave me a feel for the land and the people.
For fantasy in particular the world building and how the character is introduced to the fantasy world is KEY. Absolutely essential. This part of the story probably matters more to me than anything else. And Bound by the Mist gets an A++. The introduction to Eria and Cal's history with it was complete and riveting in it's simplicity. It wasn't overdone. And it was PERFECT.
Getting to know Cal and Relian, as well as the other characters, was a lot of fun and kept me on my toes. I found them all to be likeable, interesting, and complex.
Tyler Hoechlin as Relian
Bryce Dallas Howard as Calantha
The idea of being mysteriously bound together involuntarily and having feelings for someone you don't even have control over could come off as creepy, but I totally did not get that feel when reading. I thought that the development of feelings and progression of the relationship between Relian and Cal to be wonderful and I couldn't get enough of it.
Can't wait to read the next book in the series (as well as checking out Lisa's other books). Starting Bound to the Elvin King tonight!
Read
August 6, 20163 Stars
The Veil seldom makes an appearance in the Fae world…It binds Cal to Relian, followed by transporting her to Eria, where the magic is dying. The human and Fae worlds are in danger, and the promising love Cal and Relian seem to be a key to restoring balance.
“Bound by the Mist” links two very different people together across realms.
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
The Veil seldom makes an appearance in the Fae world…It binds Cal to Relian, followed by transporting her to Eria, where the magic is dying. The human and Fae worlds are in danger, and the promising love Cal and Relian seem to be a key to restoring balance.
“Bound by the Mist” links two very different people together across realms.
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
April 21, 2012
Bound by the Mist is a love story about two people from different worlds. The Mist decides they must be together, but once together, they find they are perfect for one another, even though at first glance they seem so different. The characters are full and well-defined, drawing you into the story so you feel as if you are right there with them.
September 28, 2023
There was so much that just wasn't happening in this. I was 47% in and it felt like everything had been dragging. There is soo much description of everything going on around her and nothing that actually engages you and is important to the plot. I tried so hard to focus but got so bored.
It the beginning there was plenty of mention of spicy dreams of this Elf. So I thought for sure once she was with him there would be some smut coming up .. unfortunately, I was let down on that. By 59% in the only thing was some heavy making out and him touching her but then stopping. He said they would go no further until they bonded. So needless to say, all those 'dreams' they had been having that the author brough up - were just there to tease. But even when she talked about the dreams, it wasn't descriptive it was just 'very erotic dreams'. The one thing that should've actually been super detailed wasn't, yet everything else was. uuugh
There was nothing actually going on in the book for the most part. It was all about her accepting their bond which took forever. Sure there were the lies he told her, but I mean that didn't get brough up til the end. It was just so boring. I expected more sustenance like the shit with his cousin for instance. She meets him and he is rude and says some horrible things to her. He gave her a bad feeling. That is the end of it until a while later the very next time he sees her, he tries to kill her. Everything lasted not even a whole page. You would think there would've been more to it that just that. I expected other woman drama because he is the prince - and of course there were others before her.
I expected the Elves to say she wasn't good enough because she was human or there to be some doubts caused by the Elves talking shit to her that the prince is only using her or SOMETHING. But nope - everything was fine and dandy. The only issue was her accepting the bond.
There is 1 sex scene in the book and its at the end after they have bonded. It's their first time together and it was a let down.
The book ended without any resolution or anymore details mentioned for the magic issue in their realm. They had believed that their bond was part of the resolution but then it happened and nothing else had been mentioned. Also, that scroll they found saying something about their blood, they believed it was to help the darkendred or whatever... and there was no more on that. It all just felt unresolved.
I guess the plot was the bond; and that was the only thing that actually got resolved. Idk. It wasn't that great to be honest.
spice 0/5
humor 0/5
emotional 0/5
World building 1/5
Overall 1/5
It the beginning there was plenty of mention of spicy dreams of this Elf. So I thought for sure once she was with him there would be some smut coming up .. unfortunately, I was let down on that. By 59% in the only thing was some heavy making out and him touching her but then stopping. He said they would go no further until they bonded. So needless to say, all those 'dreams' they had been having that the author brough up - were just there to tease. But even when she talked about the dreams, it wasn't descriptive it was just 'very erotic dreams'. The one thing that should've actually been super detailed wasn't, yet everything else was. uuugh
There was nothing actually going on in the book for the most part. It was all about her accepting their bond which took forever. Sure there were the lies he told her, but I mean that didn't get brough up til the end. It was just so boring. I expected more sustenance like the shit with his cousin for instance. She meets him and he is rude and says some horrible things to her. He gave her a bad feeling. That is the end of it until a while later the very next time he sees her, he tries to kill her. Everything lasted not even a whole page. You would think there would've been more to it that just that. I expected other woman drama because he is the prince - and of course there were others before her.
I expected the Elves to say she wasn't good enough because she was human or there to be some doubts caused by the Elves talking shit to her that the prince is only using her or SOMETHING. But nope - everything was fine and dandy. The only issue was her accepting the bond.
There is 1 sex scene in the book and its at the end after they have bonded. It's their first time together and it was a let down.
The book ended without any resolution or anymore details mentioned for the magic issue in their realm. They had believed that their bond was part of the resolution but then it happened and nothing else had been mentioned. Also, that scroll they found saying something about their blood, they believed it was to help the darkendred or whatever... and there was no more on that. It all just felt unresolved.
I guess the plot was the bond; and that was the only thing that actually got resolved. Idk. It wasn't that great to be honest.
spice 0/5
humor 0/5
emotional 0/5
World building 1/5
Overall 1/5
April 21, 2022
This story jumped about more than a kid on a pogo stick suffering a sugar rush.
Sometimes it would seem like it was going to lead to a scene then it would cut off and move on to after that and just tell us what happened, like the author thought they were unimportant and just skipped writing them altogether. After a while it got annoying and confusing.
Also the only conflict was that Relian wasn’t telling the whole truth (which became harder to substantiate when the language barrier happened), but then again neither was Cal. Not mentioning that the Veils vision had basically made everyone think she was bonkers (because of the sheer trauma it would cause) is just as bad as not mentioning the bonding is non negotiable. They affect everyone involved so it should have been addressed earlier.
But if it had been addressed they would have been no plot, because the interpersonal drama was the ONLY thing happening in the book. The Darkindred and Eamon and the fading magic were back burner side-plot that either happened later or were barely touched upon which made no sense to me because they seem pretty central to everything going on.
I also hated Cal and Maggie as characters they were annoying and whiney and prejudiced. There was very little wonder that you might usually associate with this kind of story. Everything was geared towards “lets get out of this place its weird”.
They had moments were they seemed fine but then they’d revert to annoying.
They NEVER even talked to the other humans that had called Eria home for centuries.
Nor was it touched upon the stories and folk tales of those who venture beyond the Mist. I mean COME ON! There have been stories for centuries about the Fae (or fae-like/adjacent creatures) all across The world and that was just all ignored and only briefly (once) addressed in a boring conversation that cut off after about a minute.
There was so much material to use and the author used barely any and just stuck to “whiney tourist trapped in a different world” angle.
Also it was inferred Cal had been having sex dreams since she was a child. Thats creepy and a form of child grooming. Not cool along with all the other coercive shit going on in this book.
Sometimes it would seem like it was going to lead to a scene then it would cut off and move on to after that and just tell us what happened, like the author thought they were unimportant and just skipped writing them altogether. After a while it got annoying and confusing.
Also the only conflict was that Relian wasn’t telling the whole truth (which became harder to substantiate when the language barrier happened), but then again neither was Cal. Not mentioning that the Veils vision had basically made everyone think she was bonkers (because of the sheer trauma it would cause) is just as bad as not mentioning the bonding is non negotiable. They affect everyone involved so it should have been addressed earlier.
But if it had been addressed they would have been no plot, because the interpersonal drama was the ONLY thing happening in the book. The Darkindred and Eamon and the fading magic were back burner side-plot that either happened later or were barely touched upon which made no sense to me because they seem pretty central to everything going on.
I also hated Cal and Maggie as characters they were annoying and whiney and prejudiced. There was very little wonder that you might usually associate with this kind of story. Everything was geared towards “lets get out of this place its weird”.
They had moments were they seemed fine but then they’d revert to annoying.
They NEVER even talked to the other humans that had called Eria home for centuries.
Nor was it touched upon the stories and folk tales of those who venture beyond the Mist. I mean COME ON! There have been stories for centuries about the Fae (or fae-like/adjacent creatures) all across The world and that was just all ignored and only briefly (once) addressed in a boring conversation that cut off after about a minute.
There was so much material to use and the author used barely any and just stuck to “whiney tourist trapped in a different world” angle.
Also it was inferred Cal had been having sex dreams since she was a child. Thats creepy and a form of child grooming. Not cool along with all the other coercive shit going on in this book.
September 30, 2023
"Reality has some basis in myth."
I'm not sure what the TikTok was that made me save this as a "want to read" - but I need to rethink some of my like choices.
I like this - IN THEORY -- The veil between the human and elf realms basically arrange marriages a human and an elf to save the elf kingdom.
But in actuality...
Cal is clumsy, tripping over herself left and right in ways that, if I knew her as a full on adult woman, I would beg her to see a doctor to check out her equilibrium. We get lines like Oh, how adorable she was, and she wasn't even trying after she trips for the 15th time before the halfway mark. Once, she bursts into tears for no reason I could fathom, as that particular circumstance didn't warrant it at all. Periodically, she zones out - a completely normal thing that Relian absolutely panics over.
Relian teeter-tooters so abruptly from "I can't marry a HUMAN" to "I must lie to keep her here at all costs" I feel like I should call an attorney and sue for whiplash damages.
I could see little compelling evidence for the romance, for me, besides: He's handsome. -- He lies to keep her there. Assumes that she'll stay, giving up her entire world, without nary a thought for how that might affect her. Refuses to answer any of her questions. Constantly tells himself that, though the binding must be completed, not to fall in love with her. She doesn't see him acting prince-ly or warrior-like. The romance is just... there. Once, he kills a monster in front of her and then checks to see if she's good - like, the BARE MINIMUM required in that situation, and she just melts.
This reads like every 10th Walker Lord of the Rings fanfiction I've ever read. Not that there's anything wrong with that - if that's the vibe you're going for. I definitely went through a phase that that was my cup of tea. But reading this, I think it wasn't anymore? I dunno.
I'm not sure what the TikTok was that made me save this as a "want to read" - but I need to rethink some of my like choices.
I like this - IN THEORY -- The veil between the human and elf realms basically arrange marriages a human and an elf to save the elf kingdom.
But in actuality...
Cal is clumsy, tripping over herself left and right in ways that, if I knew her as a full on adult woman, I would beg her to see a doctor to check out her equilibrium. We get lines like Oh, how adorable she was, and she wasn't even trying after she trips for the 15th time before the halfway mark. Once, she bursts into tears for no reason I could fathom, as that particular circumstance didn't warrant it at all. Periodically, she zones out - a completely normal thing that Relian absolutely panics over.
Relian teeter-tooters so abruptly from "I can't marry a HUMAN" to "I must lie to keep her here at all costs" I feel like I should call an attorney and sue for whiplash damages.
I could see little compelling evidence for the romance, for me, besides: He's handsome. -- He lies to keep her there. Assumes that she'll stay, giving up her entire world, without nary a thought for how that might affect her. Refuses to answer any of her questions. Constantly tells himself that, though the binding must be completed, not to fall in love with her. She doesn't see him acting prince-ly or warrior-like. The romance is just... there. Once, he kills a monster in front of her and then checks to see if she's good - like, the BARE MINIMUM required in that situation, and she just melts.
This reads like every 10th Walker Lord of the Rings fanfiction I've ever read. Not that there's anything wrong with that - if that's the vibe you're going for. I definitely went through a phase that that was my cup of tea. But reading this, I think it wasn't anymore? I dunno.
March 15, 2023
I judge books by their covers. I really do. But booktok had me curious and did me well with the Mindfuck series so I decided to trust the algorithm.
It was a pretty fast read despite it’s size. The world building was pretty simple and straightforward up until the very end. Relian and Cal are super cute. The premise is that she and Relian are bonded against their will but will eventually fall in love.
But the bond comes about in a strange way. There’s a magical mist which separated earth and his world (it’s giving Percy Jackson level of mist that is able to warp time and space travel) that bound them together. This brings up the question, why?
Well I don’t know. The book never really answers this question. It flirts with the idea that both earth and the elf world are careening towards impending doom and Relian and Cal have been brought together to save it (and this revelation occurs 20ish pages before the end). And then in the next 20 pages, Cal suddenly realize she loves Relian, they complete their bond, and then it’s book over.
Now normally I’d be like, okay book two here I come. This is book one of a trilogy. Except each book follows a different couple. And while I know that the plot will continue into the second book, it leaves a lot of questions that will probably never get answered. How can they be answered when the next book is told from two completely separate POVs. I enjoyed the book. It was cute. It brought me out a bit of a reading slump. But it was a bit lackluster towards the end.
It was a pretty fast read despite it’s size. The world building was pretty simple and straightforward up until the very end. Relian and Cal are super cute. The premise is that she and Relian are bonded against their will but will eventually fall in love.
But the bond comes about in a strange way. There’s a magical mist which separated earth and his world (it’s giving Percy Jackson level of mist that is able to warp time and space travel) that bound them together. This brings up the question, why?
Well I don’t know. The book never really answers this question. It flirts with the idea that both earth and the elf world are careening towards impending doom and Relian and Cal have been brought together to save it (and this revelation occurs 20ish pages before the end). And then in the next 20 pages, Cal suddenly realize she loves Relian, they complete their bond, and then it’s book over.
Now normally I’d be like, okay book two here I come. This is book one of a trilogy. Except each book follows a different couple. And while I know that the plot will continue into the second book, it leaves a lot of questions that will probably never get answered. How can they be answered when the next book is told from two completely separate POVs. I enjoyed the book. It was cute. It brought me out a bit of a reading slump. But it was a bit lackluster towards the end.
January 13, 2023
I finished this book and I'm not sure what the actual conflict was. There was a bit of tension between the main couple but that was it. Repeated mentions of external threat and that the FMC was supposedly part of the solution to fix it. Somehow. None of this is exactly defined and little stakes are set out.
This continued on to an end where nothing happened. I'd hoped the next book was a continuation of this couple. It's not. It's a new couple. The development of them thus appears done in this book.
The characters? The main pair are interesting enough, fairly fleshed out, but that's where it ends. The side characters feel one dimensional with little conflict or tension associated.
This is a good surface read but with little plot, twists or world building, it's hard to want to continue with the series. I may touch the next book but there's no urge to. It just...feels underwhelming.
This continued on to an end where nothing happened. I'd hoped the next book was a continuation of this couple. It's not. It's a new couple. The development of them thus appears done in this book.
The characters? The main pair are interesting enough, fairly fleshed out, but that's where it ends. The side characters feel one dimensional with little conflict or tension associated.
This is a good surface read but with little plot, twists or world building, it's hard to want to continue with the series. I may touch the next book but there's no urge to. It just...feels underwhelming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2020
So I had a hard time trying to figure out how to review this. I enjoyed the story but it cuts off, hardcore, with more questions than answers, and the excerpt of book two showed a different couple taking center stage meaning all my unanswered questions and the continuation of this couple's story will stay that way. They could answer them using this couple but that would take away from the story. The only way I can stomach stories with changing main characters is if the story for each is wrapped up with an underlining theme through all the books that ends with the series. The instant cutoff of this book already proved that will not happen. So though I enjoyed the book I likely will not continue the series. I don't want cliffhanger after cliffhanger.
March 11, 2023
What a disappointment. I was really looking forward to this book…it had some good traction on booktok…BUT…the one scene about her wanting her fiancé but him wanting to wait until they are wed? That’s it. That’s about the only interesting thing about the book.
It was very uninteresting. The FMC is annoying and just not a likeable character in the least. The writing isn’t very good either. There were A LOT of grammatical and spelling mistakes, which , look…they happen right ? But after this book being released and renamed how many times? Those issues should have been taken care of by now.
I’m removing the rest of the series from my tbr. This was just not it for me. Sorry
It was very uninteresting. The FMC is annoying and just not a likeable character in the least. The writing isn’t very good either. There were A LOT of grammatical and spelling mistakes, which , look…they happen right ? But after this book being released and renamed how many times? Those issues should have been taken care of by now.
I’m removing the rest of the series from my tbr. This was just not it for me. Sorry
March 16, 2023
I had a really hard time starting this book. It took me several days to get through the first few chapters because I kept putting it down for another book instead. But soon enough I couldn’t put it down. The book is definitely a slow burn, which personally isn’t my favorite, but I actually really enjoyed how the author wrote it. There were a lot of tension scenes that I really enjoyed. I really enjoyed the main characters and I was happy to say I felt like every single side character we met truly had a purpose to be introduced in the story. I’d be happy to read more from this author and possibly this series. I just wish there was more of Cal and Relian instead of the next books moving onto other couples in the world.
November 3, 2021
Enchanting!
My first book by this author and I am impressed by her story crafting and telling as you read through the story, you find out more and more and get drawn into the story line and characters. Cal, Relian, Maggie, Talion and many others keep you reading and you will be reaching for book two before you know it.
I love the way the writer make the differentiation between the species and the pros and cons of each. Very enjoyable read that continues too book two, I am off to read book three.
My first book by this author and I am impressed by her story crafting and telling as you read through the story, you find out more and more and get drawn into the story line and characters. Cal, Relian, Maggie, Talion and many others keep you reading and you will be reaching for book two before you know it.
I love the way the writer make the differentiation between the species and the pros and cons of each. Very enjoyable read that continues too book two, I am off to read book three.
February 7, 2023
The plot of this book was original and the world that was built was really unique. Everything else about these book was very boring. If Cal and Relian had gone to counseling or couples therapy this book could have been 200 pages shorter. The dialogue between certain characters was bland, and left a lot to be desired. The pace of this book was also excruciatingly slow and things developed very slowly.
June 4, 2023
Bound to the Elvin Prince
I wish the whole book was like the last 4 chapters. There was so much description through the whole book that it honestly felt like nothing happened. Only 1 spicy scene, and that was at the end of the book and was the least detailed event in the whole book. Honestly, I didn't want to finish it and won't read the rest of the series. The plot was great. I just wish this was written differently.
I wish the whole book was like the last 4 chapters. There was so much description through the whole book that it honestly felt like nothing happened. Only 1 spicy scene, and that was at the end of the book and was the least detailed event in the whole book. Honestly, I didn't want to finish it and won't read the rest of the series. The plot was great. I just wish this was written differently.
March 13, 2022
Good!!
****Bound to the Elvin Prince by Lisa Kumar: Good!
Cal/Relian. Their fate nudged by the veil. Their love story — the ups and downs — all their own. Lol funny at times, with many unknowns, and some danger. This story has a HEA ending for Cal/Relian, but the unanswered questions remain.
PTators
****Bound to the Elvin Prince by Lisa Kumar: Good!
Cal/Relian. Their fate nudged by the veil. Their love story — the ups and downs — all their own. Lol funny at times, with many unknowns, and some danger. This story has a HEA ending for Cal/Relian, but the unanswered questions remain.
PTators
February 7, 2023
Elvin
Pretty good read. I love Maggie. She gave so much laughter and humor to a very overwhelming situation for Cal. And that King kept Maggie on her toes. But the true bond between Relian and Cal was beautiful. He loved her all those years through the veil and to finally bond was a beautiful ending.
Pretty good read. I love Maggie. She gave so much laughter and humor to a very overwhelming situation for Cal. And that King kept Maggie on her toes. But the true bond between Relian and Cal was beautiful. He loved her all those years through the veil and to finally bond was a beautiful ending.
February 16, 2021
Very good
I really liked this book. It is very well written and I really enjoyed the story line. I think my only complaint about this series is the covers they don’t do the stories justice.
I really liked this book. It is very well written and I really enjoyed the story line. I think my only complaint about this series is the covers they don’t do the stories justice.
June 4, 2021
An interesting premise
When two worlds collide sparks fly. I wasn't sure about the book at first but then I became enamored of Cal and Relian . The chemistry between the two is great. I would've liked to see more depth to the plot itself
When two worlds collide sparks fly. I wasn't sure about the book at first but then I became enamored of Cal and Relian . The chemistry between the two is great. I would've liked to see more depth to the plot itself
June 26, 2021
Love this
Good world building, great characters, action, romance and magic. I like that is was over 300 pages which gave more depth to the story. Would have given it 5 stars but the ending was abrupt and after reading book 2 left too many questions unanswered.
Good world building, great characters, action, romance and magic. I like that is was over 300 pages which gave more depth to the story. Would have given it 5 stars but the ending was abrupt and after reading book 2 left too many questions unanswered.
September 19, 2021
Details Amass
This book had a very gourd storyline and had it not been for that I would not have been able to trudge through the tedious details the author pout in the book. Also without giving assay the ending I was a not disappointed in it.
This book had a very gourd storyline and had it not been for that I would not have been able to trudge through the tedious details the author pout in the book. Also without giving assay the ending I was a not disappointed in it.
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