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Binding Circumstance
To save the life of the man she loves, she’ll have to risk her own.
Costume designer Leslie Carroll has mastered the art of flying under the radar. She’s had to, or risk being found by the psychopath who almost killed her.
When she literally falls into Hollywood heartthrob Charlie Erickson’s dressing room on her first day of employment, their mutual attraction is instant and undeniable. Despite his star status, Charlie is a sweet southern boy at heart, and for the first time in a long time, Leslie begins to think she has a chance at happiness.
When her harrowing past catches up to her and targets Charlie, will she run to save herself, or face her monster to save the man who is her future?
Costume designer Leslie Carroll has mastered the art of flying under the radar. She’s had to, or risk being found by the psychopath who almost killed her.
When she literally falls into Hollywood heartthrob Charlie Erickson’s dressing room on her first day of employment, their mutual attraction is instant and undeniable. Despite his star status, Charlie is a sweet southern boy at heart, and for the first time in a long time, Leslie begins to think she has a chance at happiness.
When her harrowing past catches up to her and targets Charlie, will she run to save herself, or face her monster to save the man who is her future?
204 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 29, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 29, 2019
I was given an ARC for an honest review. Small town country boy turned Hollywood's favorite leading man finds what he always knew he wanted. Is his charm and willingness enough to keep her or will her past and a common enemy rip them apart? This book has all the feels: insta chemistry, love, fear, agony and fierce family values!
September 2, 2024
You have to suspend a lot of disbelief for this one. Talk about major coincidence. Also for a person who is trying to stay under the radar, she does a crap job. I didn't really like this one.
September 30, 2019
There are dust bunnies collecting in the corners of my kitchen, my laundry room smells funky, not fresh, and it’s a problem. Frankly, I blame Kelley Griffin.
Why, you ask? Because I made the mistake of diving into her novel, BINDING CIRCUMSTANCE, on Friday and, being unable to put it down, my weekend cleaning routine went to hell. Scrub the toilet, you say? Impossible! Kelley’s main character, Leslie, has questions that need answered about sexy Charlie right now and so do I, gosh darn it! Fold the laundry? Ha! Leslie’s stalker just made an appearance and I can’t leave our girl hanging out there alone, now can I? Seriously, had I stopped I’m sure she would have been a goner. I HAD to keep reading. For Leslie’s sake.
All kidding aside which, by the way, I’m not really kidding, BINDING CIRCUMSTANCE is hard to put down. It’s a real page turner, or a finger swiper if you read it on Kindle like I did. That said let me share a trigger warning. If you’ve ever been stalked or were the subject of violence, especially sexual violence, this may not be your cup of tea. Then again, it might – it’s handled in a fairly sensitive way, although it does get intense. Truth be told, the only time I DID put it down and walk away was for that very reason - intensity. When I read a book, I throw myself into it to the point that with this one, I needed a breather, even if it was just long enough to pretend to tackle the laundry.
In essence, it’s a nail bitter.
Okay, public service announcement over, let’s get to the heart of it, what I like to call the good stuff, and there’s a LOT of good stuff. To start, Kelley hooks you with a relationship-building romance dripping with suspense – which I won’t give away – but the hints at something sinister lurking in Leslie’s past will keep you guessing throughout the book. Plus, you’ll love her fragile inner strength, although if you’re a mother of a young twenty-something woman like I am, at times you’ll find yourself shouting, “Say something, for heaven’s sake!” Once you’re a mother, you’ll find yourself parenting everything whether it be stray dogs, fruit flies or fictional young people in books. It’s a thing. Don’t judge me.
As for Leslie’s love interest, upon reading the first description of Charlie, I couldn’t help picturing Chris Helmsworth. If that also happens to you when you read it, you’re welcome! Granted, it also helps that the mental image of him seductively sweaty and shirtless is forever burned upon my brain stem, but that’s not a bad thing and I certainly don’t mind. I DID mind Charlie’s initial pushiness, but it’s true to character, and it left room for his personal growth throughout the story. Characters need room to breathe, develop, and grow, and isn’t that part of the fun? Plus, as he pushed and she repelled, I got it. And, as their relationship evolved, I got that too. It works.
Additionally, the premise is intriguing – a young costume designer is stalked by a psychopath while being pursued romantically by a Hollywood heartthrob (give me a sec…I’m picturing Chris Helmsworth shirtless again), and I loved the peek behind the scenes into the world of movie making. Anytime a book takes me into new and fresh experiences, it’s an added bonus that leaves me thrilled.
From a bump-and-grind perspective, Kelley’s novel is straight up sweet heat. If you’re here for sex, sex, and only sex, keep moving. BUT, if you enjoy the give and take of a building romance with a satisfying send off, you’ll love BINDING CIRCUMSTANCE just as much as I did.
One thing that didn’t quite read true, however, but which I’m willing to accept, was Leslie’s quick climb up the career ladder, only because it happens so fast and, having bitten and clawed my way through my own career, I only wish it had been that easy at times. As the main breadwinner for my family my entire adult life it’s been an uphill battle. That said, women with skills should be instantly rewarded for their talent so, in that regard, I applaud her advancement. Let the real world take note and catch up.
In closing, this is a fun, fast read that will have you gripping your tablet page after page. Her characters will delight you and frustrate you and captivate you and enrage you and all those other choice active verbs that make fictional characters so relatable. I hope you give it a chance. You won’t be disappointed.
Why, you ask? Because I made the mistake of diving into her novel, BINDING CIRCUMSTANCE, on Friday and, being unable to put it down, my weekend cleaning routine went to hell. Scrub the toilet, you say? Impossible! Kelley’s main character, Leslie, has questions that need answered about sexy Charlie right now and so do I, gosh darn it! Fold the laundry? Ha! Leslie’s stalker just made an appearance and I can’t leave our girl hanging out there alone, now can I? Seriously, had I stopped I’m sure she would have been a goner. I HAD to keep reading. For Leslie’s sake.
All kidding aside which, by the way, I’m not really kidding, BINDING CIRCUMSTANCE is hard to put down. It’s a real page turner, or a finger swiper if you read it on Kindle like I did. That said let me share a trigger warning. If you’ve ever been stalked or were the subject of violence, especially sexual violence, this may not be your cup of tea. Then again, it might – it’s handled in a fairly sensitive way, although it does get intense. Truth be told, the only time I DID put it down and walk away was for that very reason - intensity. When I read a book, I throw myself into it to the point that with this one, I needed a breather, even if it was just long enough to pretend to tackle the laundry.
In essence, it’s a nail bitter.
Okay, public service announcement over, let’s get to the heart of it, what I like to call the good stuff, and there’s a LOT of good stuff. To start, Kelley hooks you with a relationship-building romance dripping with suspense – which I won’t give away – but the hints at something sinister lurking in Leslie’s past will keep you guessing throughout the book. Plus, you’ll love her fragile inner strength, although if you’re a mother of a young twenty-something woman like I am, at times you’ll find yourself shouting, “Say something, for heaven’s sake!” Once you’re a mother, you’ll find yourself parenting everything whether it be stray dogs, fruit flies or fictional young people in books. It’s a thing. Don’t judge me.
As for Leslie’s love interest, upon reading the first description of Charlie, I couldn’t help picturing Chris Helmsworth. If that also happens to you when you read it, you’re welcome! Granted, it also helps that the mental image of him seductively sweaty and shirtless is forever burned upon my brain stem, but that’s not a bad thing and I certainly don’t mind. I DID mind Charlie’s initial pushiness, but it’s true to character, and it left room for his personal growth throughout the story. Characters need room to breathe, develop, and grow, and isn’t that part of the fun? Plus, as he pushed and she repelled, I got it. And, as their relationship evolved, I got that too. It works.
Additionally, the premise is intriguing – a young costume designer is stalked by a psychopath while being pursued romantically by a Hollywood heartthrob (give me a sec…I’m picturing Chris Helmsworth shirtless again), and I loved the peek behind the scenes into the world of movie making. Anytime a book takes me into new and fresh experiences, it’s an added bonus that leaves me thrilled.
From a bump-and-grind perspective, Kelley’s novel is straight up sweet heat. If you’re here for sex, sex, and only sex, keep moving. BUT, if you enjoy the give and take of a building romance with a satisfying send off, you’ll love BINDING CIRCUMSTANCE just as much as I did.
One thing that didn’t quite read true, however, but which I’m willing to accept, was Leslie’s quick climb up the career ladder, only because it happens so fast and, having bitten and clawed my way through my own career, I only wish it had been that easy at times. As the main breadwinner for my family my entire adult life it’s been an uphill battle. That said, women with skills should be instantly rewarded for their talent so, in that regard, I applaud her advancement. Let the real world take note and catch up.
In closing, this is a fun, fast read that will have you gripping your tablet page after page. Her characters will delight you and frustrate you and captivate you and enrage you and all those other choice active verbs that make fictional characters so relatable. I hope you give it a chance. You won’t be disappointed.
June 30, 2020
Leslie Carroll is exactly the woman I want to be when meeting an incredibly handsome Hollywood actor. Cool as a cucumber, and utterly unimpressed with Charles Erickson’s famous persona. She can see right through to his true self, Charlie Erickson the southern gentleman. As Leslie is a woman leading her own double life, it is so easy to see why these two attract each other.
Binding Circumstance is the kind of book you cancel plans for. Any time I was forced to put the book down I hurried through my activities just so I could get back to the couch, kick my feet up, and get back into the action. The suspense is like a cliffhanger on every page of this novel, making me flip through the pages so quickly the book could have taken flight right out of my hands!
Experiencing the relationship between Charlie and Leslie had me hanging on every word. Getting a peek into their real lives made the story so heartwarming at times. The wonderful moments with Charlie and Nate, and with Leslie and Sissy give this story beautiful connections with representation of people who have loved ones with a disability or with people who have disabilities themselves.
Intermixed with the wonderfully sweet, the readers also get the shockingly suspenseful and terribly thrilling moments as Leslie’s past starts to catch up with her. The plot takes many interesting twists and turns, making it almost impossible to walk away from. Tension kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time wanting to know how it would all shake out but also never wanting the book to end!
The only small warnings I have are the references to kidnapping and rape that may be triggering to some readers. There are a few moments where actions are described, but graphic depictions were kept to a minimum and only used to forward the plot and not to be dwelled upon for longer than absolutely necessary. Unless you have specific triggers to any of the aforementioned warnings, I think this book would be completely safe and enjoyable for you to read.
I would quickly read Binding Circumstance again, having fallen in love with the characters and their stories. Kelley Griffin did an incredible job weaving together the perfect suspenseful mystery thriller with a whirlwind romance, making the plot tightly packed with action and excitement. There is absolutely no question that I will be purchasing her other works and staying up well into the night to eat up her stories!
Binding Circumstance is the kind of book you cancel plans for. Any time I was forced to put the book down I hurried through my activities just so I could get back to the couch, kick my feet up, and get back into the action. The suspense is like a cliffhanger on every page of this novel, making me flip through the pages so quickly the book could have taken flight right out of my hands!
Experiencing the relationship between Charlie and Leslie had me hanging on every word. Getting a peek into their real lives made the story so heartwarming at times. The wonderful moments with Charlie and Nate, and with Leslie and Sissy give this story beautiful connections with representation of people who have loved ones with a disability or with people who have disabilities themselves.
Intermixed with the wonderfully sweet, the readers also get the shockingly suspenseful and terribly thrilling moments as Leslie’s past starts to catch up with her. The plot takes many interesting twists and turns, making it almost impossible to walk away from. Tension kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time wanting to know how it would all shake out but also never wanting the book to end!
The only small warnings I have are the references to kidnapping and rape that may be triggering to some readers. There are a few moments where actions are described, but graphic depictions were kept to a minimum and only used to forward the plot and not to be dwelled upon for longer than absolutely necessary. Unless you have specific triggers to any of the aforementioned warnings, I think this book would be completely safe and enjoyable for you to read.
I would quickly read Binding Circumstance again, having fallen in love with the characters and their stories. Kelley Griffin did an incredible job weaving together the perfect suspenseful mystery thriller with a whirlwind romance, making the plot tightly packed with action and excitement. There is absolutely no question that I will be purchasing her other works and staying up well into the night to eat up her stories!
July 22, 2019
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Leslie and Charlie’s story is not for the faint of heart. This story is laced with haunted pasts, vindictive plans, and most of all, hope. With every chapter came a new depth and turn that kept me holding on to the edge of my seat for more. If your looking for a book with passion and suspense you’ve come to the right place. The writing was descriptive and painted a picture clearly from page one. There is no lack of character depth and emotion. I would highly suggest Binding Circumstances to any reader ready to enjoy an intense tale of love and the journey to find it, despite your past. I’m excited to read more from Kelley Griffin in the future!
July 29, 2019
I couldn’t put this book down! Binding Circumstance is one of those great reads that you get lost in, as if you are on a parallel dimension where you get sucked into the character’s daily lives. The twists and turns in the story line kept building a sense of urgency and suspense. If you enjoy suspense, and a good honest love story with truly relatable characters, this one is for YOU! I can’t wait to see if there is a sequel! I received a free ARC copy of the book Binding Circumstance by Kelley Griffin in exchange for an honest review.Binding Circumstance
October 5, 2020
I had never heard of Kelly Griffin before I stopped at a local festival and met her at her vendor booth. After a wonderful conversation with her I bought all four of her published books and started reading by jumping into Binding Circumstance. I'm so happy I did, I couldn't put this book down! A little mystery/suspense, a little contemporary romance, and a whole lot southern heart. I fell in love with Leslie's contradictions; how strong she is and yet how vulnerable at the same time, how serious and driven yet how light-hearted and fun in her endearing relationship with her son, Nate, and her banter with Charlie as their relationship grows. This story has all the feels and I can't wait to read more of Kelley's books.
September 26, 2019
A brilliant page-turner. It’s hard to classify Binding Circumstance as belonging to a single genre. It’s equal parts a thriller, a mystery, a romance, and a life drama. Leslie and Charlie are totally adorable protagonists, with their likeable flaws and clumsiness. While all that Leslie wants in her life is to stay inconspicuous and unnoticeable, she’s in for a surprise as her life collides with movie star Charlie.
The pace of the story was gripping and the narration was fun and cheerful throughout. You can’t put this book down until you finish it.
Many thanks to Bewitching Book Tours and the author Kelley Griffin, for gifting me a copy of this book for an honest review.
The pace of the story was gripping and the narration was fun and cheerful throughout. You can’t put this book down until you finish it.
Many thanks to Bewitching Book Tours and the author Kelley Griffin, for gifting me a copy of this book for an honest review.
February 9, 2020
This is an incredible first novel by my friend, Kelley! It was a little intimidating to be asked to critique the novel, but thankfully I have nothing but a great review! Kelley is able to create characters that are endearing and real! I love a good suspense and Kelley did not disappoint me! I loved the surprises throughout the novel. One of the best parts was the familiar setting that she flawlessly wove into the storyline. This may be Kelley’s first novel, but it is definitely a MUST READ!!
July 20, 2019
Binding Circumstance has an alpha male that manages to be sexy without being a jerk and a heroine that has overcome great peril without turning into a sobbing mess. I love these characters!! The romance is steamy without resorting to overt erotica and the suspense - oh my, I couldn't put this book down! Truly a great, absorbing read! Highly recommend!
July 30, 2019
I received an ARC copy of Binding Circumstances by Kelley Griffin in exchange for my honest review.
This book is amazing! Playful, suspenseful, and romantic! A little bit James Patterson, a little bit Nora Roberts and yet Griffin’s voice is all her own. Read it now and then start back at the beginning again!
This book is amazing! Playful, suspenseful, and romantic! A little bit James Patterson, a little bit Nora Roberts and yet Griffin’s voice is all her own. Read it now and then start back at the beginning again!
August 17, 2019
Fantastic story!
This was an amazing story. Twists, turns, secrets, and the ultimate of all...love. This book kept me guessing what would come next, and I was not disappointed. This author has become one of my favorites!
This was an amazing story. Twists, turns, secrets, and the ultimate of all...love. This book kept me guessing what would come next, and I was not disappointed. This author has become one of my favorites!
February 19, 2023
What an exciting read! Read most of it in one sitting! Enjoyed all the references to Knoxville! Go VOLS!
September 21, 2019
Coming soon!
September 23, 2019
Loved this book so much, I read it twice! I couldn’t put it down. Perfect amount of suspense and romance. Looking forward to reading more from author Kelley Griffin!
October 27, 2019
Captivating from the first page! Relatable and memorable characters. If her next book proves to be anything like this one, I think I just found my new favorite author!
November 30, 2019
Binding Circumstance is a wonderful mix of humor, romance, and suspense. Griffin’s descriptions, easily, paint pictures in your mind so you feel like you are right there! This book is a must-read!
April 19, 2020
Fantastic book! I couldn't put it down!
June 10, 2020
I couldn’t put this book down! Hoping she continues the storyline with a sequel. I cannot wait to read more from this author.
July 6, 2020
Awesome read!
This book was awesome....kept me on the edge of my seat! With the unexpected twists and turns, I couldn’t put it down! A must read, for sure!
This book was awesome....kept me on the edge of my seat! With the unexpected twists and turns, I couldn’t put it down! A must read, for sure!
October 27, 2020
Absolutely loved this book! Romance and suspense all in one book! Looking forward to reading more from this author!
February 17, 2020
A wonderful romantic suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Leslie and Charlie were likable characters with lots of chemistry without explicit sex scenes. I wish we got more of the development of the relationship between Charlie and Nate, Leslie's son. I enjoyed the brief glimpse of that part of their story. Overall, a great storyline and executed well. I look forward to reading more from this author.
October 31, 2024
I’m not much on romance novels, but this isn’t a typical romance, at least not to me. I like action and there is some in here. There is also a little bit of “comedy”. A little boy meets girl verses Superman (the old TV show).
January 3, 2021
Well written, exciting and slowly revealed climax. Didn’t see that coming. But then it darted you the end and left a lot of questions. Needs more details of what happened near the end.
March 11, 2021
This book was so good. I had a hard time putting it down and found myself excited to come home and continue reading. I look forward to reading more of her books.
March 9, 2023
Great book from the very start! This is my 4th read from this author and she does not disappoint. Southern roots, Hollywood glam, mystery, suspense, romance… what’s not to enjoy?!
March 24, 2024
Nice little read.
September 7, 2024
This book was great! Fast paced, kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to find out the FMCs back story! I also loved seeing my town in the setting of a book! Knoxville, TN love!!
December 21, 2024
What an excellent, thrilling read! The story moves FAST, leaving you ready for the sequel!
November 27, 2025
So good! I couldn't put it down!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews