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Sentries #2
Together Bound
Todd Ruger is a sentry, a very good one, some might say the best. He was eleven when he and Nick were bound as master and slave. Todd spent the years Nick lived in the slave village waiting for the day Nick could leave and they’d be together, bit by bit building a life for both of them. He took his role of master seriously. It was his responsibility to provide for Nick, protect him and along the way he learned to love him. Todd loved Nick deeply and completely. They were more than a pair of sentries. Todd and Nick were friends, lovers, mates.
Eighteen months ago, Nick left the small village where he’d spent his entire life being raised and trained as a slave. Blessed with a unique skill set, Nick became a sentry. He took his place beside his master, Todd Ruger, defending society against the many paranormal threats that abound. They became more than master and slave, they became mates. Nick had found a home with Todd and together they became a family. Eventually, Nick’s special abilities and skills attract the attention of the second most powerful man in New Colorado Protectorate’s government, Vice Chancellor Clarke. Or, maybe certain people knew of Nick all along and just now had cause to use him. He believes Nick might be the answer to explaining Chancellor Shaffer’s sudden, unusual behavior.
Forced to go undercover the Chancellor’s Estate, Todd and Nick discover an ancient and deadly creature preying on residents of the estate. The same creature that is radically effecting Chancellor Shaffer. A creature only Nick can see in its true form. It hunts using specialized skills and has Todd and Nick in its crosshairs. Even if they defeat the creature and survive, they still face the possibility of being torn from each other when their lives are thrown into chaos by the thing they’re hunting.
Eighteen months ago, Nick left the small village where he’d spent his entire life being raised and trained as a slave. Blessed with a unique skill set, Nick became a sentry. He took his place beside his master, Todd Ruger, defending society against the many paranormal threats that abound. They became more than master and slave, they became mates. Nick had found a home with Todd and together they became a family. Eventually, Nick’s special abilities and skills attract the attention of the second most powerful man in New Colorado Protectorate’s government, Vice Chancellor Clarke. Or, maybe certain people knew of Nick all along and just now had cause to use him. He believes Nick might be the answer to explaining Chancellor Shaffer’s sudden, unusual behavior.
Forced to go undercover the Chancellor’s Estate, Todd and Nick discover an ancient and deadly creature preying on residents of the estate. The same creature that is radically effecting Chancellor Shaffer. A creature only Nick can see in its true form. It hunts using specialized skills and has Todd and Nick in its crosshairs. Even if they defeat the creature and survive, they still face the possibility of being torn from each other when their lives are thrown into chaos by the thing they’re hunting.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 4, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Together Bound is second in the Sentries series and follows Marked Yours. For the sake of continuity, I think the series needs to be read in order. These books have been previously released by another publisher, so some of you might already be familiar with them. I’m also going to put out a trigger warning for non-con on this one. There’s enough on page that if this is a problem for you, then you may want to skip the book.
One of things this author isn’t afraid to do is hit the ground running. We’re barely reintroduced to Todd and Nick before we’re tossed into the thick of it. Todd is obviously hesitant to be separated from Nick for even a moment, and their devotion to one another is one of the things that stands out in Together Bound. Nick and Todd’s relationship is even more intense and involved than in the first book and they definitely share a bond that transcends their legal situation. The issues regarding Nick’s slavery that I had with the first book are still there and Nick is often portrayed as being overly reliant on Todd. Some of this is sexual, some of this a natural Dom/Sub situation, but because Nick is an actual slave, I find it unsettling. And I’m not sure why. I’ve read slave novels before and not had this kind of unease, but it’s there never the less. Still, I give credit to the author because she navigates this tricky subject relatively well and doesn’t ignore the problematic nature of it all.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Together Bound is second in the Sentries series and follows Marked Yours. For the sake of continuity, I think the series needs to be read in order. These books have been previously released by another publisher, so some of you might already be familiar with them. I’m also going to put out a trigger warning for non-con on this one. There’s enough on page that if this is a problem for you, then you may want to skip the book.
One of things this author isn’t afraid to do is hit the ground running. We’re barely reintroduced to Todd and Nick before we’re tossed into the thick of it. Todd is obviously hesitant to be separated from Nick for even a moment, and their devotion to one another is one of the things that stands out in Together Bound. Nick and Todd’s relationship is even more intense and involved than in the first book and they definitely share a bond that transcends their legal situation. The issues regarding Nick’s slavery that I had with the first book are still there and Nick is often portrayed as being overly reliant on Todd. Some of this is sexual, some of this a natural Dom/Sub situation, but because Nick is an actual slave, I find it unsettling. And I’m not sure why. I’ve read slave novels before and not had this kind of unease, but it’s there never the less. Still, I give credit to the author because she navigates this tricky subject relatively well and doesn’t ignore the problematic nature of it all.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
October 12, 2011
OMG!! I loved it!! I loved seeing Todd and Nick show their closeness and you could feel how anxious Nick was about how they were going to have to work. Even though Todd does not want to be a Master Master, he still embodies it unconciously and Nick does a very little bit of Topping from Below to get his needs met. It is wonderfully and artfully done and written 'cause Todd is an Alpha Male and he cannot help dominating and being who he is yet in a loving and caring way, ready and willing to do anything to protect his mate. I loved the twists throughout the book and Clarke redeemed himself in my eyes at the end of the book. I got teary eyed when Nick recognized what the box was and that made me guess ummm ya'll have to get the book and see what gets::::wink wink::::....big smiles I can hardly wait for part 3 now.
December 19, 2011
'Start as you mean to go on' is very fitting for both this series and the two main characters, Todd and Nick Ruger. With this second book in the ‘Sentries’ series the author’s skill with world building and character development remains strong and true. Layer by layer the hidden depths of this world and those that inhabit it is being slowly revealed and all is not always as it seems. Almost two years after the conclusion of the first book Todd and ”Nicky” are taking on their first undercover assignment as Sentries. With war looming as well as the threat of separation they face off against not one but two enemies at the same time; one known and one unknown. Either one has both the power and the means to destroy everything they have worked so hard for as Master/slave, bonded mates and as Sentries.
For me the heart and soul of this series is and always will be the breathtaking relationship between Todd and Nicky and the strength of their bond. When things begin to fall apart and communication breaks down each man is most concerned with what HE might have done to contribute to this. It is quite heart wrenching to witness. Todd and Nicky’s relationship feels solid and familiar, full of their trademark humor and warm affection. Under the influence of a mysterious supernatural force Todd becomes a bit more aggressive sexually much to Nicky’s delight. And that is the key here, “to Nicky’s delight”. At the core of their lovemaking at all times is a deep abiding love and complete awareness of the other’s needs both physical and emotional. It seems no one and no thing can come between these two strong and determined men. As always Todd and Nick are willing to fight and die if necessary to protect what is theirs.
This series continues to grow more and more fascinating and is very addictive. The writing is tight and smooth flowing with no excess of descriptive paragraphs, dialog or scenes. The plot is very well thought out and executed and feels very credible for the world the author has so skillfully created. The suspense builds slowly and steadily creating a fair amount of tension. It carries the story and the reader right along with it to a very chilling confrontation with a horrifyingly gruesome enemy. The ending is deeply satisfying yet definitely leaves the door wide open for more.
'Together Bound' could be read alone as it is a complete story in and of itself, however, you would miss so much of the heart of this series by not experiencing Todd and Nick's journey to where they are when this book takes place. If this installment is any indication of what is yet to come I for one am on board for more. I intend to purchase a print copy for my Keeper shelf to go right next to my copy of ‘Marked Yours’.
NOTE: This book has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Queer Magazine Online.
For me the heart and soul of this series is and always will be the breathtaking relationship between Todd and Nicky and the strength of their bond. When things begin to fall apart and communication breaks down each man is most concerned with what HE might have done to contribute to this. It is quite heart wrenching to witness. Todd and Nicky’s relationship feels solid and familiar, full of their trademark humor and warm affection. Under the influence of a mysterious supernatural force Todd becomes a bit more aggressive sexually much to Nicky’s delight. And that is the key here, “to Nicky’s delight”. At the core of their lovemaking at all times is a deep abiding love and complete awareness of the other’s needs both physical and emotional. It seems no one and no thing can come between these two strong and determined men. As always Todd and Nick are willing to fight and die if necessary to protect what is theirs.
This series continues to grow more and more fascinating and is very addictive. The writing is tight and smooth flowing with no excess of descriptive paragraphs, dialog or scenes. The plot is very well thought out and executed and feels very credible for the world the author has so skillfully created. The suspense builds slowly and steadily creating a fair amount of tension. It carries the story and the reader right along with it to a very chilling confrontation with a horrifyingly gruesome enemy. The ending is deeply satisfying yet definitely leaves the door wide open for more.
'Together Bound' could be read alone as it is a complete story in and of itself, however, you would miss so much of the heart of this series by not experiencing Todd and Nick's journey to where they are when this book takes place. If this installment is any indication of what is yet to come I for one am on board for more. I intend to purchase a print copy for my Keeper shelf to go right next to my copy of ‘Marked Yours’.
NOTE: This book has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Queer Magazine Online.
May 30, 2016
I really loved this follow up to Marked Yours. The world building continues and what Nicky and Todd when through was well thought out. The new world order is terrifying. Looking forward to the next one very, very much.
January 9, 2020
TOGETHER BOUND is the second book in the Sentries series and we continue with Todd and Nicky's story. I would definitely recommend reading this as a series as we deal with the same characters in the same world and if you don't, then this may not make any sense at all!
Todd and Nicky go undercover at a slave rehabilitation camp to try and find out if the Chancellor has gone crazy or not. It turns out he's not crazy, but he's not himself either! This is a dangerous mission, more so for Nicky in many ways, but Todd has his own battles to fight too.
I loved returning to their world and seeing how they interact with each other. I don't think this was as "hot and heavy" as the first book but there are definitely moments where Todd goes Alpha!
There is a great cast of characters in this book and I would love to hear more from them in future books. A fantastic ending that wraps up this part of their story nicely whilst leading onto the next... which I CAN'T WAIT FOR!!!
Definitely recommended by me and bring on the next!
Todd and Nicky go undercover at a slave rehabilitation camp to try and find out if the Chancellor has gone crazy or not. It turns out he's not crazy, but he's not himself either! This is a dangerous mission, more so for Nicky in many ways, but Todd has his own battles to fight too.
I loved returning to their world and seeing how they interact with each other. I don't think this was as "hot and heavy" as the first book but there are definitely moments where Todd goes Alpha!
There is a great cast of characters in this book and I would love to hear more from them in future books. A fantastic ending that wraps up this part of their story nicely whilst leading onto the next... which I CAN'T WAIT FOR!!!
Definitely recommended by me and bring on the next!
June 19, 2021
How does one get away with writing a M-M pairing with seriously unbalanced power-deferential dynamics? By locating them within ancient historical, high fantasy or futurist dystopia settings; this series falls into that last category. Readers should most definitely read Marked Yours first in order to appreciate the full extent of the complex geo-politico-socio-world building.
Todd and Nick are sent undercover (in their Sentries role) to investigate what might be an mystery at a Slave Orphan facility. The drama and intrigue was well done - the monster suitably malevolent posing a dire threat/danger for both MCs. However, the light BDS dynamics found in not infrequent sex-scenes may prove triggering/off-putting for some readers. The HFN ending points decidedly to a 'life on the run' in the next couple of books, and of course there will be new 'monsters' for our guys to face down/defeat. 3.5 stars.
Todd and Nick are sent undercover (in their Sentries role) to investigate what might be an mystery at a Slave Orphan facility. The drama and intrigue was well done - the monster suitably malevolent posing a dire threat/danger for both MCs. However, the light BDS dynamics found in not infrequent sex-scenes may prove triggering/off-putting for some readers. The HFN ending points decidedly to a 'life on the run' in the next couple of books, and of course there will be new 'monsters' for our guys to face down/defeat. 3.5 stars.
August 10, 2012
Together Bound, Book 2 of the Sentries series by Elizabeth Noble, is a continuation of Todd and Nicky's love story. Again set in the dystopian future, the story opens with the couple facing yet another challenge to their relationship. Todd is summoned by the government to turn over his slave. Not wanting to lose Nicky, Todd cuts a deal, agreeing to go undercover at a slave orphanage to investigate the strange behavior of the region's chancellor. Todd and Nicky set out together on this clandestine mission, posing as acquaintances.
They are not quite prepared for what they uncover, though. A powerful and sadistic parasitic shape-shifter has infiltrated the orphanage and is using the chancellor's body as its host. This particular shifter uses pheromones and libido to control its victims, and soon both Todd and Nicky fall under the spell of this venomous creature.
Multiple times Nicky is violated by the shifter and struggles with horrendous guilt, feeling somehow responsible for his own rape. Todd too blames himself, feeling as if he failed to protect his mate from the monster. Ultimately the couple work together to defeat their common enemy but then must face another unexpected challenge.
As with book one, I love the Master/slave relationship depicted in this story. Both partners are equal in terms of their value within the relationship, yet they have distinct roles in the others' lives. Todd is the leader, the decision maker, and the protector. Nicky is his obedient sub who tends to his Master's every need. They compliment each other beautifully, in every aspect of their lives.
My only criticism is that I was very frustrated when Nicky was trying to talk to Todd on several occasions about an important issue, and Todd continuously brushed him off. I thought this to be unrealistic and out of character. It reminded me of a soap opera, where one of the characters is about to reveal something and then repeatedly gets interrupted. Those kinds of scenes are so frustrating to me because I want to just scream: JUST SAY IT!
Overall, I loved the book and will soon be moving on to Book Three.
They are not quite prepared for what they uncover, though. A powerful and sadistic parasitic shape-shifter has infiltrated the orphanage and is using the chancellor's body as its host. This particular shifter uses pheromones and libido to control its victims, and soon both Todd and Nicky fall under the spell of this venomous creature.
Multiple times Nicky is violated by the shifter and struggles with horrendous guilt, feeling somehow responsible for his own rape. Todd too blames himself, feeling as if he failed to protect his mate from the monster. Ultimately the couple work together to defeat their common enemy but then must face another unexpected challenge.
As with book one, I love the Master/slave relationship depicted in this story. Both partners are equal in terms of their value within the relationship, yet they have distinct roles in the others' lives. Todd is the leader, the decision maker, and the protector. Nicky is his obedient sub who tends to his Master's every need. They compliment each other beautifully, in every aspect of their lives.
My only criticism is that I was very frustrated when Nicky was trying to talk to Todd on several occasions about an important issue, and Todd continuously brushed him off. I thought this to be unrealistic and out of character. It reminded me of a soap opera, where one of the characters is about to reveal something and then repeatedly gets interrupted. Those kinds of scenes are so frustrating to me because I want to just scream: JUST SAY IT!
Overall, I loved the book and will soon be moving on to Book Three.
June 14, 2012
4 Hearts
First published at MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
I would advise that before you read this you read the first Sentries book Marked Yours as you get a better feel of the world building and the bond between Todd and Nick. This is set in the future three hundred years after a cataclysmic natural disaster. Nick is near to panicking when he receives a letter demanding that he hand over Todd, his slave, his lover, his mate. He just wants to grab Todd and head for the hills but he does his duty and visits the Vice-Chancellor and finds that he needs Todd for an undercover mission. They both go undercover and when they discover the truth it could very well mean their lives. When the mission is over neither one of them will be safe.
This is an incredible bit of futuristic fantasy/paranormal that draws you in. You really feel for these two as they don’t want to be separated. they both also feel guilt for what happens. Blaming themselves. Nick for not being able to protect Todd like he promised and Todd for not being able to stop the thing that is the Chancellor from touching him. There is some misunderstanding between the two of them but what you do not miss even from the very beginning is how much these two really love each other and you certainly can’t miss the wonderful love scenes between these two.
Fantastically written storyline, brilliant plot and an ending which could mean more to come from these two incredible men. There is one slight kink scene and a few times that Todd gets all Alpha on Nick.
I would say that this is for those of you who love science-fiction, futuristic, fantasy/paranormal, post-apocalypse, hot sex and a really good story.
First published at MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
I would advise that before you read this you read the first Sentries book Marked Yours as you get a better feel of the world building and the bond between Todd and Nick. This is set in the future three hundred years after a cataclysmic natural disaster. Nick is near to panicking when he receives a letter demanding that he hand over Todd, his slave, his lover, his mate. He just wants to grab Todd and head for the hills but he does his duty and visits the Vice-Chancellor and finds that he needs Todd for an undercover mission. They both go undercover and when they discover the truth it could very well mean their lives. When the mission is over neither one of them will be safe.
This is an incredible bit of futuristic fantasy/paranormal that draws you in. You really feel for these two as they don’t want to be separated. they both also feel guilt for what happens. Blaming themselves. Nick for not being able to protect Todd like he promised and Todd for not being able to stop the thing that is the Chancellor from touching him. There is some misunderstanding between the two of them but what you do not miss even from the very beginning is how much these two really love each other and you certainly can’t miss the wonderful love scenes between these two.
Fantastically written storyline, brilliant plot and an ending which could mean more to come from these two incredible men. There is one slight kink scene and a few times that Todd gets all Alpha on Nick.
I would say that this is for those of you who love science-fiction, futuristic, fantasy/paranormal, post-apocalypse, hot sex and a really good story.
October 6, 2012
Better than the first this one had great action. We see Nick grow up more here which is nice. The sex, as always, is hot. I'm not a huge fan of misunderstandings spouting from not feeling like characters can communicate but it actually works here - though I hope that is not part of the next book as they are now beyond that. I enjoyed the supernatural element - it felt real and added a bit of scare and suspense. I'm now on to #3 in the series. I'm really enjoying this series. It is a little corny at time, a little far fetched, but the core of it with the two main characters is just so engaging I completely fall into the story and don't want to put the book down.
July 21, 2021
All I can say is that this series is amazing. It'll keep you on the edge and entertained from beginning to end.
November 12, 2019
Returning to this fabulous post-disaster world created by Elizabeth Noble was such fun. Todd and Nick have been together for eighteen months now and their bond is stronger than ever. My curiosity was completely piqued to see how their mating was working out and to watch them in action together again. The fact that this story comes with so many possible repercussions, both positive and negative, due to its political machinations had me on the edge of my seat.
Todd and Nick have been conscripted by Vice Chancellor Clarke to go undercover at the chancellor's estate because something is not right about the chancellor's behavior. Todd goes as second-in-command to the man in charge of the orphan slave sanctuary, which is exactly what you would think it is, and poor Nick has to go with the orphan slaves. Oh how I despise these guys having to be separated, it's so very hard on both of them but especially for Nick. More unfortunate is what Nick's 'special gift' reveals about the chancellor and how much trouble this duo is in for. And I'm going to admit it right now - whatever this creature is, it's repulsive, nauseating, disgusting, and just plain gross.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Todd and Nick have been conscripted by Vice Chancellor Clarke to go undercover at the chancellor's estate because something is not right about the chancellor's behavior. Todd goes as second-in-command to the man in charge of the orphan slave sanctuary, which is exactly what you would think it is, and poor Nick has to go with the orphan slaves. Oh how I despise these guys having to be separated, it's so very hard on both of them but especially for Nick. More unfortunate is what Nick's 'special gift' reveals about the chancellor and how much trouble this duo is in for. And I'm going to admit it right now - whatever this creature is, it's repulsive, nauseating, disgusting, and just plain gross.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
January 26, 2012
I liked the first book, but this one was MUCH better. Still a bit too much sex in it - which would be okay if the scenes were shorter. I get that it was necessary at the Estate, but before they went there were a number of sex scenes that could have been reduced to just one (she writes amazing sex scenes - not saying anything negative about that, just that I was anxious to get to the actual story).
I've had limited time to read over the past days and had to put this book down a lot. It wasn't really hard until their journey started, and once I got 50% in then I just had to finish. The second part of this book is very exciting and I kept trying to figure out how she was going to solve the issues. The writing itself is great and I like how the characters were true to themselves and developed a little.
It'll be hard to wait for the third book. I'll probably end up buying it on the release day. The end of this book leaves everything open for a great adventure and the guys will hopefully encounter that "shortage" I went on about in my other review.
I've had limited time to read over the past days and had to put this book down a lot. It wasn't really hard until their journey started, and once I got 50% in then I just had to finish. The second part of this book is very exciting and I kept trying to figure out how she was going to solve the issues. The writing itself is great and I like how the characters were true to themselves and developed a little.
It'll be hard to wait for the third book. I'll probably end up buying it on the release day. The end of this book leaves everything open for a great adventure and the guys will hopefully encounter that "shortage" I went on about in my other review.
September 1, 2013
I have mixed feelings about this one, the second book in Noble's Sentries series. I really like the premise of this series, but while I enjoyed the basic plot of this one, I found myself starting to skim through the numerous and extensive sex scenes. It just felt a little unbalanced to me - too much sex (shock! horror!) and not enough plot or character development for my taste.
November 2, 2019
This was a great follow-up to book one, Marked Yours, and I really enjoyed Nick and Todd's continuing journey. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book*
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book*
August 20, 2013
Turns out Eminent Domain sucks no matter what century you are stuck in. And when you are the slave that's being domained, it sucks even worse.
Todd and Nicky, in this follow-up to Marked Yours, have never been particularly fond of being separated, so it comes as no surprise that their reaction to being shanghaied into helping with the new chancellor's problems goes down about as well as Nicky on coffee restriction. Forced to go undercover at the Chancellor's retreat/orphan-slave home, the pair are faced with separation anxiety, one oily villain, and enough communication issues to fund a therapists early retirement--that is if therapist even survived the switch-over from sane world to wild-west dystopia.
I like Nicky and Todd. Unfortunately, I think I like them enough to realize that what I like about them has more to do with who they can be, than with who they are. I love the master/slave dynamic they have--the strength and dependency they have on and for each other comes across as real and very potent. Yet, overlaid over all that sexual tension and love is a unhealthy dose of codependency with a annoying helping of uncommunicative secrecy. No relationship is perfect, but I was kind of hoping they had moved on a little from these issues since the end of the last book to the beginning of this one. Even a little growth would have been nice. But this book had just as much emotional baggage, if not more, than the last one and it was simply too much for me. Either have ultimate evil dude as the problem or crippling emotional issues, but for the love of god don't have both.
Other than my issues with their issues, it was a good book. The sex, as always, was well written, the bad dude was properly evil (even if I had to physically walk away from my kindle after the non-con scenes) and I was thrilled that we got to see more hunting in this book than we did in the previous one. Plus this books ends on a bit of a cliff-hanger as to what will become of the pair, so you are left wanting to read the third in the series--though I am not sure I can stomach much more "but he won't love me anymore, oh woe is me!!" from the pair, much longer.
I think this is going to top out at three stars for me--just too much personal angst. Read if you just have to know what happens to Todd and Nick, but for the love of god remember that kindles are not made to bounce off walls...unless you have those new, cool padded kind ;D
Todd and Nicky, in this follow-up to Marked Yours, have never been particularly fond of being separated, so it comes as no surprise that their reaction to being shanghaied into helping with the new chancellor's problems goes down about as well as Nicky on coffee restriction. Forced to go undercover at the Chancellor's retreat/orphan-slave home, the pair are faced with separation anxiety, one oily villain, and enough communication issues to fund a therapists early retirement--that is if therapist even survived the switch-over from sane world to wild-west dystopia.
I like Nicky and Todd. Unfortunately, I think I like them enough to realize that what I like about them has more to do with who they can be, than with who they are. I love the master/slave dynamic they have--the strength and dependency they have on and for each other comes across as real and very potent. Yet, overlaid over all that sexual tension and love is a unhealthy dose of codependency with a annoying helping of uncommunicative secrecy. No relationship is perfect, but I was kind of hoping they had moved on a little from these issues since the end of the last book to the beginning of this one. Even a little growth would have been nice. But this book had just as much emotional baggage, if not more, than the last one and it was simply too much for me. Either have ultimate evil dude as the problem or crippling emotional issues, but for the love of god don't have both.
Other than my issues with their issues, it was a good book. The sex, as always, was well written, the bad dude was properly evil (even if I had to physically walk away from my kindle after the non-con scenes) and I was thrilled that we got to see more hunting in this book than we did in the previous one. Plus this books ends on a bit of a cliff-hanger as to what will become of the pair, so you are left wanting to read the third in the series--though I am not sure I can stomach much more "but he won't love me anymore, oh woe is me!!" from the pair, much longer.
I think this is going to top out at three stars for me--just too much personal angst. Read if you just have to know what happens to Todd and Nick, but for the love of god remember that kindles are not made to bounce off walls...unless you have those new, cool padded kind ;D
August 10, 2016
Not a pretty review, if the star rating didn't give it away.
It's somewhere around a 2 or 2.5, and the only reason it gets that high is because the premise of the universe is reasonably unique and the plot was half decent, though mired by unnecessary sex scenes.
I expected better of Nick's character, but he became whinier and clingier than before, instead of stronger and smarter. And Todd's overpossessiveness, even when it was part of the plot, was annoying too. They refuse to talk to each other when they should, which is heinously stupid, particularly given the line of work they're in as Sentries protecting against the paranormal. And to be honest, their reactions weren't even consistent within the setup framework the plot provided. I wondered at one point toward the end if anyone actually beta'd the story because of how inconsistent it was within itself.
I forced myself to skim through the last 4 sex scenes and a lot of blather in the last 10% of the book, which sets up for the next in the series. This was an all-around disappointing experience. I suppose in all fairness I shouldn't have expected as much as I did compared to the first, and it's unfair to rate based on that expectation. I wanted to like this book as much as I do the universe, but I can't.
As much as I like the premise, and even though I own the next two books in the series already, I don't know that I can stomach another of these stories because I cannot deal with these characters as they are, and I have no reason to doubt they'll be any different next time. Maybe if I wait another year and forget how I'm feeling right now, I'll try again.
It's somewhere around a 2 or 2.5, and the only reason it gets that high is because the premise of the universe is reasonably unique and the plot was half decent, though mired by unnecessary sex scenes.
I expected better of Nick's character, but he became whinier and clingier than before, instead of stronger and smarter. And Todd's overpossessiveness, even when it was part of the plot, was annoying too. They refuse to talk to each other when they should, which is heinously stupid, particularly given the line of work they're in as Sentries protecting against the paranormal. And to be honest, their reactions weren't even consistent within the setup framework the plot provided. I wondered at one point toward the end if anyone actually beta'd the story because of how inconsistent it was within itself.
I forced myself to skim through the last 4 sex scenes and a lot of blather in the last 10% of the book, which sets up for the next in the series. This was an all-around disappointing experience. I suppose in all fairness I shouldn't have expected as much as I did compared to the first, and it's unfair to rate based on that expectation. I wanted to like this book as much as I do the universe, but I can't.
As much as I like the premise, and even though I own the next two books in the series already, I don't know that I can stomach another of these stories because I cannot deal with these characters as they are, and I have no reason to doubt they'll be any different next time. Maybe if I wait another year and forget how I'm feeling right now, I'll try again.
June 15, 2013
I was grateful when I got the second book in the Sentries series. The first one introduced me to Todd and Nick, master and slave, and also Sentries, men who helped to keep others safe from the nasties of the world.
We start out on an unbelievable happening. Todd receives notice that he is to turn Nick over as eminent domain. Nick is scared out of his mind that he will be separated from his master and Todd is trying desperately to come up with an alternative.
When the time comes, Todd heads off to the meeting, only to find out that it’s not what he thought it would be. Nick is wanted, but not for the reasons stated.
A particularly nasty creature is wreaking havoc at a slave’s re-education center. It’s doing foul, unspeakable things to the people living there, and it’s doing them all while wearing someone else’s face. When Nick and Todd get there, the creature knows something is up, and finds the irony…delicious.
The creature does something to Nick that drives the poor man to the brink. Breaking one of Todd’s first rules creates a heavy heart and brings the realization that he may lose everything he’s ever wanted and the only thing he really has.
Ms. Noble has created an amazing world, filled with sexy characters caught in horrifying situations. I cannot wait to read book three!
Lucky's complete review appears at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index.... on June 15, 2013
We start out on an unbelievable happening. Todd receives notice that he is to turn Nick over as eminent domain. Nick is scared out of his mind that he will be separated from his master and Todd is trying desperately to come up with an alternative.
When the time comes, Todd heads off to the meeting, only to find out that it’s not what he thought it would be. Nick is wanted, but not for the reasons stated.
A particularly nasty creature is wreaking havoc at a slave’s re-education center. It’s doing foul, unspeakable things to the people living there, and it’s doing them all while wearing someone else’s face. When Nick and Todd get there, the creature knows something is up, and finds the irony…delicious.
The creature does something to Nick that drives the poor man to the brink. Breaking one of Todd’s first rules creates a heavy heart and brings the realization that he may lose everything he’s ever wanted and the only thing he really has.
Ms. Noble has created an amazing world, filled with sexy characters caught in horrifying situations. I cannot wait to read book three!
Lucky's complete review appears at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index.... on June 15, 2013
January 4, 2015
I have to give this one 4 stars just based on the fact that it was 100 times better than the first book in the series.
The boys were great together in the first book and they really come into their relationship in this one. You really started to understand the way their relationship works and how it'll keep growing. Though Todd did bug me in that half the book Nick tried to get him to listen to his apology and he just ignored him. Which results in a small (should have been major) fight that could have been so easily avoided. Communication guys, it's kinda a guy factor in any relationship.
Anyway, I do like where this series is going and I can't wait to pick up the next book. Oh, one more thing. The world building in this book is pretty much non-existent and that was a big factor in me not liking the first book. What made the no world building okay in this one is that the actual world doesn't really matter in this book because the entire book takes place in one a secluded compound. The next book would really be a test for Ms. Noble because a war is about to break out and we need to know the what, where, why and how's.
I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who was on the fence or disliked the first one. The writing is a lot better and the boys are actually making something of themselves. Plus it'll appeal to anyone looking for a slavfic with some fantasy elements.
The boys were great together in the first book and they really come into their relationship in this one. You really started to understand the way their relationship works and how it'll keep growing. Though Todd did bug me in that half the book Nick tried to get him to listen to his apology and he just ignored him. Which results in a small (should have been major) fight that could have been so easily avoided. Communication guys, it's kinda a guy factor in any relationship.
Anyway, I do like where this series is going and I can't wait to pick up the next book. Oh, one more thing. The world building in this book is pretty much non-existent and that was a big factor in me not liking the first book. What made the no world building okay in this one is that the actual world doesn't really matter in this book because the entire book takes place in one a secluded compound. The next book would really be a test for Ms. Noble because a war is about to break out and we need to know the what, where, why and how's.
I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who was on the fence or disliked the first one. The writing is a lot better and the boys are actually making something of themselves. Plus it'll appeal to anyone looking for a slavfic with some fantasy elements.
February 17, 2014
I love this series! In this second book, we learn a little more about the new world and get to see the growth in Nick and Todd’s relationship. Some unfair manipulation and coercion on the part of one government type leader sends them off on their next mission and straight into the clutches of a strong and cunning paranormal creature intent on destroying them (but not before taking his pleasure first).
There was a definite creepy factor along with the suspense in this story. As the creature started stalking Nick, his fear and guilt became palpable. Todd was also affected in that he became more dominant and more possessive as his claim over Nick was more or less challenged.
In the end, this assignment caused a bit of a setback in Nick and Todd’s relationship (Nick feeling he had wronged his master and that Todd couldn’t possibly want to keep him, and Todd feeling he had wronged his slave by not protecting him and keeping his promise). Despite solving the case they were assigned to, Nick and Todd end up on the run at the close of this book. What new adventures will be in store for them? I can’t wait to read book 3 to find out!
There was a definite creepy factor along with the suspense in this story. As the creature started stalking Nick, his fear and guilt became palpable. Todd was also affected in that he became more dominant and more possessive as his claim over Nick was more or less challenged.
In the end, this assignment caused a bit of a setback in Nick and Todd’s relationship (Nick feeling he had wronged his master and that Todd couldn’t possibly want to keep him, and Todd feeling he had wronged his slave by not protecting him and keeping his promise). Despite solving the case they were assigned to, Nick and Todd end up on the run at the close of this book. What new adventures will be in store for them? I can’t wait to read book 3 to find out!
July 22, 2017
****Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance®****
3.5 Stars -
Together Bound is the second book in the Sentries series, and it once again follows sentry Todd and his slave Nick. It is a good story with a stormy atmosphere, although with maybe a little too much sex.
I really liked Todd. He was strong and loving. I wanted to like Nick but I found him a little weak at times and I thought his insecurities after being with Todd for almost two years off putting. There was a lack of communication on his part that led to issues. I know this was used for effect and drama in the book but it is a pet peeve of mine.
We see more of the slave culture and different aspects of how it works, which was interesting. The paranormal aspect was inventive and frightening. The bad guy was easy to hate.
On the whole, it was an enjoyable book.
3.5 Stars -
Together Bound is the second book in the Sentries series, and it once again follows sentry Todd and his slave Nick. It is a good story with a stormy atmosphere, although with maybe a little too much sex.
I really liked Todd. He was strong and loving. I wanted to like Nick but I found him a little weak at times and I thought his insecurities after being with Todd for almost two years off putting. There was a lack of communication on his part that led to issues. I know this was used for effect and drama in the book but it is a pet peeve of mine.
We see more of the slave culture and different aspects of how it works, which was interesting. The paranormal aspect was inventive and frightening. The bad guy was easy to hate.
On the whole, it was an enjoyable book.
November 3, 2012
Read this one in almost one sitting - the author tells an action/drama very well and I didn't want to put it down. Am enjoying this series and watching Nick and Todd grow both individually and as a couple.
4 out of 5 (4.5) because of all the sex - it was well written and hot, but I find too much of it and I start to skim, which is what I was doing with the scenes not connected to the bad guy/plot the more the story went along. Sorry!
4 out of 5 (4.5) because of all the sex - it was well written and hot, but I find too much of it and I start to skim, which is what I was doing with the scenes not connected to the bad guy/plot the more the story went along. Sorry!
February 21, 2012
Love this series. This book was better than the first (and I loved the first). It had less plotting and suspending of belief issues, though, they were still there at times.
Still, THIS BOOK IS GREAT.
Still, THIS BOOK IS GREAT.
Read
July 30, 2013Nick and Todd have been together for a while at the start of this book. It didn't take me very long to figure out that I was more interested in them getting together than I was in them actually being together. I just wasn't that into them.
Want to read
November 1, 2011looks like the guy on the cover needs to pee
Want to read
August 10, 2016Dammit, I didn't know this was a sequel.
April 7, 2016
Not as good as the first, but I still really enjoyed it. Looking forward to continuing the series.
October 26, 2015
2012 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
May 24, 2016
Loved it. Can't stop now to write a review as I have to start the next one. Will probably wrap up the review under the bundle one.
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