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Return of the Elves #1-4
The Return of the Elves Collection: Books 1-4
This collection includes the first four books in the Return of the Elves romantic fantasy series: Soulbound, Sundered, Exiled, and Seared.
A hidden conspiracy.
When Arlyn journeys through the Veil from Earth to Moranaia to confront her elven father, Lord Lyr, she has no idea what to expect. Getting soulbonded her first day there and kickstarting a plot against the father she just met? Yeah, neither of those were on the list. As her magic awakens, Arlyn must learn to use her gifts to face the rising danger.
A threat that spans worlds.
For the threat doesn’t end with Moranaia. Poisoned energy is flooding into the closely connected realms of the fae, causing sickness, and petitions for aid arrive from as far away as fabled Alfheim. With only Moranaia untouched, Lyr must rush to find the source of the threat.
An unexpected enemy.
Mistakenly exiled to Earth, Delbin tries his best to keep a low profile. But when a rogue Moranaian prince tries to recruit Delbin, life takes a complicated turn. Now Delbin and the scout Inona must work together to hunt down Prince Kien before he unleashes his latest plot.
A fate long foretold.
After more than three hundred years on Earth, Prince Ralan has finally returned to Moranaia. But with his wicked brother Kien on the loose, the homecoming is a short one. A dire vision sends Ralan back to Earth to save his soulbonded from his dark brother. The problem? Ralan’s Sight is broken—and stopping Kien will mean Ralan’s death.
Journey through the Return of the Elves series, where half-bloods, exiles, scouts, and seers must come together to prevent their worlds’ destruction.
A hidden conspiracy.
When Arlyn journeys through the Veil from Earth to Moranaia to confront her elven father, Lord Lyr, she has no idea what to expect. Getting soulbonded her first day there and kickstarting a plot against the father she just met? Yeah, neither of those were on the list. As her magic awakens, Arlyn must learn to use her gifts to face the rising danger.
A threat that spans worlds.
For the threat doesn’t end with Moranaia. Poisoned energy is flooding into the closely connected realms of the fae, causing sickness, and petitions for aid arrive from as far away as fabled Alfheim. With only Moranaia untouched, Lyr must rush to find the source of the threat.
An unexpected enemy.
Mistakenly exiled to Earth, Delbin tries his best to keep a low profile. But when a rogue Moranaian prince tries to recruit Delbin, life takes a complicated turn. Now Delbin and the scout Inona must work together to hunt down Prince Kien before he unleashes his latest plot.
A fate long foretold.
After more than three hundred years on Earth, Prince Ralan has finally returned to Moranaia. But with his wicked brother Kien on the loose, the homecoming is a short one. A dire vision sends Ralan back to Earth to save his soulbonded from his dark brother. The problem? Ralan’s Sight is broken—and stopping Kien will mean Ralan’s death.
Journey through the Return of the Elves series, where half-bloods, exiles, scouts, and seers must come together to prevent their worlds’ destruction.
740 pages, Paperback
Published June 25, 2019
825 people are currently reading
1636 people want to read
About the author
Bethany Adams
24 books713 followersEver since finding a copy of The Hero and the Crown in her elementary school library, Bethany has loved fantasy. After subjecting her friends to stories scrawled in notebooks during study breaks all through high school, she decided to pursue an English degree at Middle Tennessee State University. When not writing or wrangling her two small children, Bethany enjoys reading, photography, and video games.
CURRENTLY WRITING: Solace, book 8 of The Return of the Elves. Status: In editing
CURRENTLY WRITING: Solace, book 8 of The Return of the Elves. Status: In editing
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April 6, 2021Books 1-4 bundle free on Kindle US 4/6/2021
September 25, 2020
Excellent!!
These 4 books are amazing! It captured my attention immediately & I could barely put them down. I highly recommend these books!
These 4 books are amazing! It captured my attention immediately & I could barely put them down. I highly recommend these books!
November 29, 2020
Written for romance fans
But enjoyable nonetheless. Very sensitive characters with lots of feelings. A large world with lots of room for new characters and adventures.
But enjoyable nonetheless. Very sensitive characters with lots of feelings. A large world with lots of room for new characters and adventures.
December 30, 2024
This series so far is absolutely amazing
July 27, 2020
Great world building. Well defined characters with their own stories to feel and tell. I'm looking forward to more books. Enjoy! Highly recommended. I'm not commenting on the individual books because I would like for new readers to have the same experience I enjoyed, to explore a new dimension without being guided by another's interpretation.
July 1, 2020
Great read for me!
I usually do not give 5 stars. This series has entertained, kept my interest, and drawn me into the next book. This is a well written series because it is truly believable and each character is well fleshed out. The land is described so I don't need a map.
Awesome series!
I usually do not give 5 stars. This series has entertained, kept my interest, and drawn me into the next book. This is a well written series because it is truly believable and each character is well fleshed out. The land is described so I don't need a map.
Awesome series!
May 10, 2020
Nice Fantasy Collection
What a nice collection of elven romantic fantasy! The author has created a complex and fascinating world in which elves are real and are complicated beings like us, not perfect ones. The books are all interrelated, of course, and should be read in order. Each slightly shifts the focus to different characters. I thought the romance aspects were done well and didn't overwhelm the broader themes or fantasy aspect. The pacing was good, and I felt the author let us get to know her character's world slowly and appropriately, without big information dumps, which I always appreciate. I did find it a little odd that there were blood elves, who are vampire like, as I'm not a particular fan of that genre. But, like other things in this collection, the author handled it well. If you like elven fantasy, you may very well enjoy this collection. I know I will be checking out the next books of the series.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
What a nice collection of elven romantic fantasy! The author has created a complex and fascinating world in which elves are real and are complicated beings like us, not perfect ones. The books are all interrelated, of course, and should be read in order. Each slightly shifts the focus to different characters. I thought the romance aspects were done well and didn't overwhelm the broader themes or fantasy aspect. The pacing was good, and I felt the author let us get to know her character's world slowly and appropriately, without big information dumps, which I always appreciate. I did find it a little odd that there were blood elves, who are vampire like, as I'm not a particular fan of that genre. But, like other things in this collection, the author handled it well. If you like elven fantasy, you may very well enjoy this collection. I know I will be checking out the next books of the series.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
May 6, 2020
This box set includes books 1-4 for The Return of the Elves collection. I thought this was a great series. I thought each book was well written and the characters well developed. My interest was kept from start to finish. I would recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2020
Good escape from a crazy world
Thoroughly enjoyed all of this set and look forward to number 5, took me away to a world so different it was great.
Very well written and flows easily through all the different twists and turns. Thanks Bethany Adams
Thoroughly enjoyed all of this set and look forward to number 5, took me away to a world so different it was great.
Very well written and flows easily through all the different twists and turns. Thanks Bethany Adams
February 23, 2020
Excellent
Fascinating kept me up at night reading look forward to other books
We!I written strong characters easy to follow story!line
Fascinating kept me up at night reading look forward to other books
We!I written strong characters easy to follow story!line
April 17, 2020
Brilliant
I was hooked after the first book so many twists to keep you turning the pages. I spent many a late night trapped within the magic on each page.
I was hooked after the first book so many twists to keep you turning the pages. I spent many a late night trapped within the magic on each page.
December 17, 2024
Soulbound
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 0.5 🌶️. If Tolkien had girly urges with daddy issues and wrote YA type fantasy. No but seriously that language was wild. I listened to the audiobook, but found myself reading along too to help with some of these crazy words. This seemed to help me follow along who was who and what was what.
The story and world building is decent, it’s a long series though so I bet we get little trickles of it in each book. I loved the characters, it was well written.
My only criticism was that there wasn’t that much action, it was mostly about learning the magic system and the elf politics. Which is fine, as it’s the first in the series.
I liked that it incorporated some modern “human” world humour alongside the fae world of Moronaia. This almost gave it an urban fantasy feel. It does include romance, but it was sort of insta-love fated mates/bonds style. I like a little more of a slow burn or enemies to lovers so this isn’t my favourite. There was 1 spice scene and it wasn’t detailed, so this was more like a YA in that regard.
Sundered
4.2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 0 🌶️. This was still a very good story with decent plot. We are still heavy into the elven politics however. There was a little more action which I liked. I am struggling a little to keep up with all the characters but I’m getting there.
I liked the new characters adding more to the story but I felt like the original ones didn’t get the screen time they should have, considering the first book was so heavily centred around Kai and Arlyn.
This will sound super odd but I found the intimacy between Lyr and Meren a bit odd as it kind of felt like watching you parents 😂. I’m so used to first person stories that my brain couldn’t get past the fact this is told in 3rd and it wasn’t my daddy 🤣. I’m enjoying the series but I don’t adore it.
Exiled/The Grove between
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. 0 🌶️. This is a short little novella set in the same world as the rest of the series so far. There is mention of some of our well known characters but the story centres around some new ones. We catch up with Lyr, Ralan and Lial towards the end. We are introduced to a potential relationship between Deblin and Inona.
In the Grove between we meet Faen and Mio and are introduced to a race of humans (Mio being the lady ruler) in a land called Kioku that once dealt directly with the elves who granted them wishes who they call the Eiana race. The humans went on to insult and betray the Eiana, and consequently sealed the portal and no longer had dealings with the humans. Mio has eleven blood, and because of this rift is often outcast. Faen is a mage lords estranged son, who has refused to practice the arts. At the end of the story, Mio conquers her pursuer and it looks like we have another fated mate couple. Not sure how these two will come into the main storyline.
Seared
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 1 🌶️. So it’s clear now how the novella’s will tie in. Deblin and Inona feature alongside all of our beloved characters. As usual there’s some drama and we catch up with some old missing enemies.
Prince Ralan meets a potential mate in Kora. Unfortunately it’s after a pretty dreadful sight of the future. Who knew he was a suave sexy beast eh? I feel there’s gonna be more drama from Kora’s past. Is anyone in this not some secret lord/heir/prince/princess/queen?
In this respect the world building and character links continue to be very clever from Bethany Adams. It’s a charming fantasy story with deep rooted traditions, politics and lore. I have really enjoyed listening to this series so far.
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 0.5 🌶️. If Tolkien had girly urges with daddy issues and wrote YA type fantasy. No but seriously that language was wild. I listened to the audiobook, but found myself reading along too to help with some of these crazy words. This seemed to help me follow along who was who and what was what.
The story and world building is decent, it’s a long series though so I bet we get little trickles of it in each book. I loved the characters, it was well written.
My only criticism was that there wasn’t that much action, it was mostly about learning the magic system and the elf politics. Which is fine, as it’s the first in the series.
I liked that it incorporated some modern “human” world humour alongside the fae world of Moronaia. This almost gave it an urban fantasy feel. It does include romance, but it was sort of insta-love fated mates/bonds style. I like a little more of a slow burn or enemies to lovers so this isn’t my favourite. There was 1 spice scene and it wasn’t detailed, so this was more like a YA in that regard.
Sundered
4.2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 0 🌶️. This was still a very good story with decent plot. We are still heavy into the elven politics however. There was a little more action which I liked. I am struggling a little to keep up with all the characters but I’m getting there.
I liked the new characters adding more to the story but I felt like the original ones didn’t get the screen time they should have, considering the first book was so heavily centred around Kai and Arlyn.
This will sound super odd but I found the intimacy between Lyr and Meren a bit odd as it kind of felt like watching you parents 😂. I’m so used to first person stories that my brain couldn’t get past the fact this is told in 3rd and it wasn’t my daddy 🤣. I’m enjoying the series but I don’t adore it.
Exiled/The Grove between
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. 0 🌶️. This is a short little novella set in the same world as the rest of the series so far. There is mention of some of our well known characters but the story centres around some new ones. We catch up with Lyr, Ralan and Lial towards the end. We are introduced to a potential relationship between Deblin and Inona.
In the Grove between we meet Faen and Mio and are introduced to a race of humans (Mio being the lady ruler) in a land called Kioku that once dealt directly with the elves who granted them wishes who they call the Eiana race. The humans went on to insult and betray the Eiana, and consequently sealed the portal and no longer had dealings with the humans. Mio has eleven blood, and because of this rift is often outcast. Faen is a mage lords estranged son, who has refused to practice the arts. At the end of the story, Mio conquers her pursuer and it looks like we have another fated mate couple. Not sure how these two will come into the main storyline.
Seared
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 1 🌶️. So it’s clear now how the novella’s will tie in. Deblin and Inona feature alongside all of our beloved characters. As usual there’s some drama and we catch up with some old missing enemies.
Prince Ralan meets a potential mate in Kora. Unfortunately it’s after a pretty dreadful sight of the future. Who knew he was a suave sexy beast eh? I feel there’s gonna be more drama from Kora’s past. Is anyone in this not some secret lord/heir/prince/princess/queen?
In this respect the world building and character links continue to be very clever from Bethany Adams. It’s a charming fantasy story with deep rooted traditions, politics and lore. I have really enjoyed listening to this series so far.
February 19, 2025
3.75 to 4 Stars
*Note* This review is only for Soulbound, the first book in The Return of the Elves Collection: Books 1-4. I will review each book individually.
Soulbound by Bethany Adams was a reread for me, having first read it in 2018. I’m glad I reread it because I had forgotten quite a bit and enjoyed the Elven conspiracy more this time.
The story follows Arlyn, a half-human and half-elf, who grew up on Earth with humans and her human mother, never knowing her Elf father or why he left her and her mother. Her mother, Aimee, home-schools her pointy-ear’d daughter and indulges her interests in archery and swords. Aimee’s dying wish is for Arlyn to cross the Veil and into the Elves’ world, Moranaian, to find her father. Uncertain, Arlyn follows this request, having no real bonds or connections on Earth.
Kai is a 500-year-old Elf who is the sonal (scout) of Braelyn, the home of Arlyn’s father Lyrnis, who is an Elven Lord and Kai’s friend. After returning from a mission for Lyr, he stumbles upon Arlyn’s camp. After discovering human objects from Earth, including a steel sword, he assumes that an assassin has infiltrated their world and rushes off to warn Lyr. On his way, he meets up with Arlyn, who is trying to return to her camp to retrieve her belongings. He believes her to be an Elf from a different branch, but immediately recognizes her as his soulbound (fated mate). In his attempt to protect her, he initiates the bonding ritual, which he assumes she understands. After parting, they are both shocked to meet at Lyr’s home and discover the truth, much to Lyr’s chagrin.
Arlyn’s arrival is met with open bigotry by some Elfs who hate humans and want nothing to do with them, and this reignites an old conspiracy that has committed murder before.
As Arlyn, Kai, and Lyr come to terms with the soul bond and new family, they need to protect themselves and the rest of the Elves from the murderous plot surrounding them.
I enjoyed the Elf world that Bethany Adams created. It’s different and pulls you into their Elven society. Many secrets and revelations were fascinating and will continue in the series. The love interest was a little insta-lovey, but given it’s a fated mate kind of thing, I guess it makes sense, and at least they didn’t rush into it and took a more cerebral approach. There’s not much spice to this romance, and I didn’t feel the connection between the two.
I can’t say this was a significant page-turner story, but it was enjoyable. I’ll see how the next installment goes and whether it gets more interesting. All in all, not a bad read.
*Note* This review is only for Soulbound, the first book in The Return of the Elves Collection: Books 1-4. I will review each book individually.
Soulbound by Bethany Adams was a reread for me, having first read it in 2018. I’m glad I reread it because I had forgotten quite a bit and enjoyed the Elven conspiracy more this time.
The story follows Arlyn, a half-human and half-elf, who grew up on Earth with humans and her human mother, never knowing her Elf father or why he left her and her mother. Her mother, Aimee, home-schools her pointy-ear’d daughter and indulges her interests in archery and swords. Aimee’s dying wish is for Arlyn to cross the Veil and into the Elves’ world, Moranaian, to find her father. Uncertain, Arlyn follows this request, having no real bonds or connections on Earth.
Kai is a 500-year-old Elf who is the sonal (scout) of Braelyn, the home of Arlyn’s father Lyrnis, who is an Elven Lord and Kai’s friend. After returning from a mission for Lyr, he stumbles upon Arlyn’s camp. After discovering human objects from Earth, including a steel sword, he assumes that an assassin has infiltrated their world and rushes off to warn Lyr. On his way, he meets up with Arlyn, who is trying to return to her camp to retrieve her belongings. He believes her to be an Elf from a different branch, but immediately recognizes her as his soulbound (fated mate). In his attempt to protect her, he initiates the bonding ritual, which he assumes she understands. After parting, they are both shocked to meet at Lyr’s home and discover the truth, much to Lyr’s chagrin.
Arlyn’s arrival is met with open bigotry by some Elfs who hate humans and want nothing to do with them, and this reignites an old conspiracy that has committed murder before.
As Arlyn, Kai, and Lyr come to terms with the soul bond and new family, they need to protect themselves and the rest of the Elves from the murderous plot surrounding them.
I enjoyed the Elf world that Bethany Adams created. It’s different and pulls you into their Elven society. Many secrets and revelations were fascinating and will continue in the series. The love interest was a little insta-lovey, but given it’s a fated mate kind of thing, I guess it makes sense, and at least they didn’t rush into it and took a more cerebral approach. There’s not much spice to this romance, and I didn’t feel the connection between the two.
I can’t say this was a significant page-turner story, but it was enjoyable. I’ll see how the next installment goes and whether it gets more interesting. All in all, not a bad read.
January 12, 2024
This book is as childish as the word stooopid.
Aryn has an emotional outburst in every other sentence. I’m not sure how she managed to have a sword (which is super heavy) and bow in the human world when it’s apparent that the human world has technology. Wouldn’t she be carrying a shot gun or a riffle going through the forest? Considering that she doesn’t even know how to use either one of those two weapons accurately (bow n arrow and sword). At least with a gun she would’ve been able to shoot at something moving if anything happened but nothing remotely interesting happened in this book.
I really disliked the jumping from character to character and the narrators changing in the same chapter like every other 4-5 paragraphs and not really contributing to the change in thought from the male or female MC’s perspective. Which made it difficult to connect with any of the characters. Also made it difficult to follow along as to who was talking.
I don’t mind reading 3rd POV but this is not it.
I DNF this book at chapter 20 thinking the book was going to get good. It just got more and more and more and more and more cringy. Nothing I mean NOTHING really happened. It was like having the TV on just for noise in the background and occasionally listening in to children’s conversation.
The conversations were pointless, the over the top lightening fast insta love between Kai and Aryn unbelievable ( a week tops) the father (Lyr) and Aryn’s estranged relationship turned trustworthy and loving extremely quick (definitely a week), the immaturity of every character is ridiculous, and why are these 500 year old men and the FMC 26 years old fall in love?
ALL OF THESE BOOKS ARE THE SAME.
I find it hard to believe that in 500 plus years these men has never found a true love or soul mate ever and *Enters* regular nothing special human teenage girl into their fae world and all hormones go wild.
Why just why!
Don’t waste your time with this book. I didn’t find it enjoyable at all and I reread every chapter (up to Chapter 20) to make sure I was listening correctly.
Aryn has an emotional outburst in every other sentence. I’m not sure how she managed to have a sword (which is super heavy) and bow in the human world when it’s apparent that the human world has technology. Wouldn’t she be carrying a shot gun or a riffle going through the forest? Considering that she doesn’t even know how to use either one of those two weapons accurately (bow n arrow and sword). At least with a gun she would’ve been able to shoot at something moving if anything happened but nothing remotely interesting happened in this book.
I really disliked the jumping from character to character and the narrators changing in the same chapter like every other 4-5 paragraphs and not really contributing to the change in thought from the male or female MC’s perspective. Which made it difficult to connect with any of the characters. Also made it difficult to follow along as to who was talking.
I don’t mind reading 3rd POV but this is not it.
I DNF this book at chapter 20 thinking the book was going to get good. It just got more and more and more and more and more cringy. Nothing I mean NOTHING really happened. It was like having the TV on just for noise in the background and occasionally listening in to children’s conversation.
The conversations were pointless, the over the top lightening fast insta love between Kai and Aryn unbelievable ( a week tops) the father (Lyr) and Aryn’s estranged relationship turned trustworthy and loving extremely quick (definitely a week), the immaturity of every character is ridiculous, and why are these 500 year old men and the FMC 26 years old fall in love?
ALL OF THESE BOOKS ARE THE SAME.
I find it hard to believe that in 500 plus years these men has never found a true love or soul mate ever and *Enters* regular nothing special human teenage girl into their fae world and all hormones go wild.
Why just why!
Don’t waste your time with this book. I didn’t find it enjoyable at all and I reread every chapter (up to Chapter 20) to make sure I was listening correctly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2024
I am just starting books 1-4, and I love elves, so while I feel this is likely shonen or young adult, something I shy away from, I know a lot of those stories can be well written, plot driven and fun. So I gave it a shot. At chapter 18, the actual characterizations and plot are somewhat interesting and I think the book could evolve into something fun. The Problem for me so far is the female narration. I feel little besides disdain and dislike for the protagonist because of her reactions to things, in word and thought. Both are akin to that of a 12 year old, rather than the young twenty-something she is. It is a kind of immature, whiny, overly dramatic and over reaction to things that seems more suited to Harlequin. I noticed that if I restated some of the comments and thoughts she makes to myself, in a different voice and without all of the sassy, contemptuous scorn that is prevalent in the voice inflection, it isn't so bad. Is that what the author intended? Why? The protagonist has shown such maturity in other ways, then boom, spiteful arrogance that is uncalled for and unwelcome. If not, it is unfortunate that is what evolved. The male vocal is fine - even when narrating the female protagonists' parts. This is a huge problem for me, so I am not sure if I will get used to it and finish, or just give up and look for the hard copies sometime in the future. Will update.
February 15, 2025
Audiobook
This book series is steeped in awkwardly forced dramatic plot beats: or to put it another way, it uses trope after trope to try and instill some feeling in it's readers. From dramatic revelations that X character is actually a long-lost relative, to dramatic kidnappings plots, to characters being rendered dramatically powerless by kryptonite by the big bad while he dramatically monologues: it's all been done before.
It does still have it's cute moments, with characters having adorable little romantic moments with each other. And, to give the story some credit, it doesn't painfully crowbar in unnecessary third-act-break-ups, which is more restraint than many romance novels can claim.
But I still felt like the story was rather bland, and sometimes frustrating, overall. I'll make special note of the "iron is to Fae/elves as kryptonite is to superman" aspect of the story as a particular sore spot: it was not handled all that well, and goes against my personal ideas of Fae mythos.
And, quite frankly, the whole 'seers' business felt like the author just kind of giving up.
I bought it from audible for 1 credit (about 9 USD). Having used it as background noise while I worked, I'd say I got my money's worth. But I personally wouldn't dedicate time or effort to actually reading this.
This book series is steeped in awkwardly forced dramatic plot beats: or to put it another way, it uses trope after trope to try and instill some feeling in it's readers. From dramatic revelations that X character is actually a long-lost relative, to dramatic kidnappings plots, to characters being rendered dramatically powerless by kryptonite by the big bad while he dramatically monologues: it's all been done before.
It does still have it's cute moments, with characters having adorable little romantic moments with each other. And, to give the story some credit, it doesn't painfully crowbar in unnecessary third-act-break-ups, which is more restraint than many romance novels can claim.
But I still felt like the story was rather bland, and sometimes frustrating, overall. I'll make special note of the "iron is to Fae/elves as kryptonite is to superman" aspect of the story as a particular sore spot: it was not handled all that well, and goes against my personal ideas of Fae mythos.
And, quite frankly, the whole 'seers' business felt like the author just kind of giving up.
I bought it from audible for 1 credit (about 9 USD). Having used it as background noise while I worked, I'd say I got my money's worth. But I personally wouldn't dedicate time or effort to actually reading this.
May 19, 2021
A Wonderful Collection of Elven Fantasy
I read book one Soulbound by Bethany Adams years ago and loved the fantasy world, romance, magic and people she woven with her words. I was dying to continue the series but with a very full to be read shelf and limited budget the rest of the series remained on my wishlist. Luckily I stumbled on a sale of this boxed set. I am so glad I was able to pick up the next 3 books as well as re-read the book that tweaked my interest so long ago.
Bethany Adams' exquisite talent intertwines magic and love with a fantasy world of many different fae cultures. The result is a series that captivates the imagination and transports the reader to a world they will never want to leave! Even now, with dirty dishes in my sink and laundry waiting to be folded, I only want to grab a fresh cup of tea and delve right back into Adams' world of eleven magic with her next box set! Bethany Adams is a masterful writer and belongs on your fantasy authors shelf next to other greats in this genre! I may need to hang a map of Moranaia next to my map of Middle Earth in my study!
Thank you, Bethany, for the welcome respite from mundane life. I look forward to more pleasant escapes to lands of magic and adventure thanks to your creative mind!
I read book one Soulbound by Bethany Adams years ago and loved the fantasy world, romance, magic and people she woven with her words. I was dying to continue the series but with a very full to be read shelf and limited budget the rest of the series remained on my wishlist. Luckily I stumbled on a sale of this boxed set. I am so glad I was able to pick up the next 3 books as well as re-read the book that tweaked my interest so long ago.
Bethany Adams' exquisite talent intertwines magic and love with a fantasy world of many different fae cultures. The result is a series that captivates the imagination and transports the reader to a world they will never want to leave! Even now, with dirty dishes in my sink and laundry waiting to be folded, I only want to grab a fresh cup of tea and delve right back into Adams' world of eleven magic with her next box set! Bethany Adams is a masterful writer and belongs on your fantasy authors shelf next to other greats in this genre! I may need to hang a map of Moranaia next to my map of Middle Earth in my study!
Thank you, Bethany, for the welcome respite from mundane life. I look forward to more pleasant escapes to lands of magic and adventure thanks to your creative mind!
November 14, 2021
Everything about this series pulled me in! A fantasy based around the lives of Elves!? (Many different kinds!) Long lost family members, different realms, magic, betrayals and of course where we start - the idea of being 'Soulbound' to another. The idea of meeting someone and feeling that instant draw and connection, and being able to merge souls with them and connect in every way possible. Is something that I believe could pull out the inner romantic in us all!
I haven't read a series back to back so quickly, in a very long time. But I was just so desperate to know what happened to everyone! Though during slower points I found myself thinking, c'mon we need to get a move on and end it! I LOVED the fact that each book seemed to focus on a different 'Soulbound' pair, and seeing things more through their eyes, yet still involving characters from the previous books.
At somepoints I did find myself able to predict what was going to happen next, but instead of feeling disappointed that I'd predicted it, I was excited and relieved! Overall the first 4 books of this series were brilliant, despite the third being very short!
I know there are a few more books in this series, but I believe I'll leave them for a while and allow myself the happiness of the fourth books ending!
I haven't read a series back to back so quickly, in a very long time. But I was just so desperate to know what happened to everyone! Though during slower points I found myself thinking, c'mon we need to get a move on and end it! I LOVED the fact that each book seemed to focus on a different 'Soulbound' pair, and seeing things more through their eyes, yet still involving characters from the previous books.
At somepoints I did find myself able to predict what was going to happen next, but instead of feeling disappointed that I'd predicted it, I was excited and relieved! Overall the first 4 books of this series were brilliant, despite the third being very short!
I know there are a few more books in this series, but I believe I'll leave them for a while and allow myself the happiness of the fourth books ending!
September 28, 2021
One of the best series I have read in a while, right on the same level as Tolkien, Jordan, and Eddings in my opinion.
Elves, fae, and fairies live for the most part away from humans, in different dimensions connected through portals. The series starts when a young half-elf keeps the promise she made to her dead human mother, and seeks out her father, Lyr, who didn't have a clue she existed. Bonded by accident to Kai, a guide - amont other things - through the veil connecting the portals, they soon have to fight against assassins and other dark forces. The books concentrate on one "romantic" pair in each one, with a plot thread going through all of them, a threat against the kingdom and poisoning the magic energy.
Brilliantly written, with very likeable protagonists in each book, who actually have quite realistic character traits (should I say quirks?), very good plots, lots of humour, fast-paced and full of suspense. If you want fantasy at its best, this series is a must-read!
Off to get the rest of them!
Elves, fae, and fairies live for the most part away from humans, in different dimensions connected through portals. The series starts when a young half-elf keeps the promise she made to her dead human mother, and seeks out her father, Lyr, who didn't have a clue she existed. Bonded by accident to Kai, a guide - amont other things - through the veil connecting the portals, they soon have to fight against assassins and other dark forces. The books concentrate on one "romantic" pair in each one, with a plot thread going through all of them, a threat against the kingdom and poisoning the magic energy.
Brilliantly written, with very likeable protagonists in each book, who actually have quite realistic character traits (should I say quirks?), very good plots, lots of humour, fast-paced and full of suspense. If you want fantasy at its best, this series is a must-read!
Off to get the rest of them!
March 27, 2023
#1 Soulbound
No wonder the Elves in this story are feeling tired, I am, and I am just reading about all the chaos and dangerous events occurring, one on top of the next.
I really feel sorry for the grumpy healer, because, he exerts his energy to heal others, but he can not get enough time to sleep, so he can replenish his energy supply.
#2 Sundered
Yes, so many things put asunder.
Relationships, ideas, spells, political alliances, personal self image.
It's all in this tale and more.
#3 Exiled
We see the young man that had been Exiled, not from his inability to operate in his home world, but to shelter him and others that may have been affected by his talent.
A side adventure sees the dark prince almost captured, but alas, it wasn't to be.
#4 Seared
So, as this part of the story goes, we have the conflict between brothers, a Goddess unhappy with her practioner for his neglect over three hundred odd years, a young Seer with incredible talent, and a group of people more than obliging to help where they can.
It is a gripping tale through the whole 4 books, and well worth the time and effort to read.
No wonder the Elves in this story are feeling tired, I am, and I am just reading about all the chaos and dangerous events occurring, one on top of the next.
I really feel sorry for the grumpy healer, because, he exerts his energy to heal others, but he can not get enough time to sleep, so he can replenish his energy supply.
#2 Sundered
Yes, so many things put asunder.
Relationships, ideas, spells, political alliances, personal self image.
It's all in this tale and more.
#3 Exiled
We see the young man that had been Exiled, not from his inability to operate in his home world, but to shelter him and others that may have been affected by his talent.
A side adventure sees the dark prince almost captured, but alas, it wasn't to be.
#4 Seared
So, as this part of the story goes, we have the conflict between brothers, a Goddess unhappy with her practioner for his neglect over three hundred odd years, a young Seer with incredible talent, and a group of people more than obliging to help where they can.
It is a gripping tale through the whole 4 books, and well worth the time and effort to read.
June 10, 2023
I like the genre and this set of books is definitely worth the read.
Ms. Adams has a knack for creating drama for the characters, to the point that I felt sorry for the characters of book 1. It seemed like every time I turned a page, disaster struck. By book 4’s ending and justice was served, not quite on a silver platter-was almost a shock. Yes, there’s more to the worlds Ms. Adams created, but I am choosing not to read them, as her formula was beginning to show.
All in all, if you are looking for a light, easy, satisfying read to amuse yourself while you travel, keep you company on a rainy day or shut out every thing except the sand, sun and surf - this is a great choice. Enjoy!! I certainly did!!
Ms. Adams has a knack for creating drama for the characters, to the point that I felt sorry for the characters of book 1. It seemed like every time I turned a page, disaster struck. By book 4’s ending and justice was served, not quite on a silver platter-was almost a shock. Yes, there’s more to the worlds Ms. Adams created, but I am choosing not to read them, as her formula was beginning to show.
All in all, if you are looking for a light, easy, satisfying read to amuse yourself while you travel, keep you company on a rainy day or shut out every thing except the sand, sun and surf - this is a great choice. Enjoy!! I certainly did!!
April 19, 2021
Future Potential
Lyrical descriptions of disparate worlds, interconnected by history, familial ties and discord, enlivened with characters living through changes and challenges in careers and personal lives - all of this laid out in appreciation of the strengths of diversity and willingness to learn from mistakes.
Enjoyable reading, with sometimes laugh out loud situations and dialogue. Reminds me a bit of The Lord if the Rings, without having to learn a huge new vocabulary. Certainly looking forward to the next in the series.
Lyrical descriptions of disparate worlds, interconnected by history, familial ties and discord, enlivened with characters living through changes and challenges in careers and personal lives - all of this laid out in appreciation of the strengths of diversity and willingness to learn from mistakes.
Enjoyable reading, with sometimes laugh out loud situations and dialogue. Reminds me a bit of The Lord if the Rings, without having to learn a huge new vocabulary. Certainly looking forward to the next in the series.
May 15, 2021
Thoroughly engaging
I am very pleased to discover Bethany Adams after the series is complete because it meant I could binge read these first four books without hanging out for the next one.
I liked her characters, even the horrid ones - well mainly one nasty. He was absolutely, divinely detestable.
Strong females with a hint of fragility, as we all are at sometime. As were the strong males allowing for gentleness.
A very satisfying journey. Looking forward to the next set and to finding the answers still left.
I am very pleased to discover Bethany Adams after the series is complete because it meant I could binge read these first four books without hanging out for the next one.
I liked her characters, even the horrid ones - well mainly one nasty. He was absolutely, divinely detestable.
Strong females with a hint of fragility, as we all are at sometime. As were the strong males allowing for gentleness.
A very satisfying journey. Looking forward to the next set and to finding the answers still left.
July 5, 2021
Very much liked this series! I bought the next 3 books in the series and the last two as Audio books. The books are romance based, with a decent story that continues to move forward, without all the descriptive sex scenes. There's lots of magic, elves, and humans that interact together to cause problems or solve problems.
There are some disturbing scenes, so these books are not sugary sweet, but they are more upbeat than depressing. I think there is just the right blend of romance, and good and evil story content. Very enjoyable series.
There are some disturbing scenes, so these books are not sugary sweet, but they are more upbeat than depressing. I think there is just the right blend of romance, and good and evil story content. Very enjoyable series.
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December 19, 2021Slow to draw me in
I'm rating this a 3.5, because the story took a long time to draw me in. It was interesting enough to keep me reading, but not compelling enough to make me care about the story's universe. I liked Lyr a lot, but it wasn't until Ralan became the main character that the story really picked up.
I'll be continuing on with this series, because there are a few problems left unresolved, and now I'm interested enough to want to see where the story goes.
I'm rating this a 3.5, because the story took a long time to draw me in. It was interesting enough to keep me reading, but not compelling enough to make me care about the story's universe. I liked Lyr a lot, but it wasn't until Ralan became the main character that the story really picked up.
I'll be continuing on with this series, because there are a few problems left unresolved, and now I'm interested enough to want to see where the story goes.
May 16, 2021
Battle Royal
Extremely well written books. The characters are clear and sharp. The descriptions of the scenery make you feel that you are there. The explanations are descriptive and reasonable. Altogether these books were time very well spent. Don't pass up the chance to slip away to a fantasy world for a while. Bravo!
Extremely well written books. The characters are clear and sharp. The descriptions of the scenery make you feel that you are there. The explanations are descriptive and reasonable. Altogether these books were time very well spent. Don't pass up the chance to slip away to a fantasy world for a while. Bravo!
June 14, 2021
Bunny elves?
The first book was good, but by the third book it's repetitive.
Why do these elves all bond and mate within days of first meeting? They gave a world to save, yet there they are more worried about getting laid. These elves mate like rabbits.
Overall the books are simple and not awful if you are in to elf romance.
The first book was good, but by the third book it's repetitive.
Why do these elves all bond and mate within days of first meeting? They gave a world to save, yet there they are more worried about getting laid. These elves mate like rabbits.
Overall the books are simple and not awful if you are in to elf romance.
December 21, 2021
Loved this book set! The only reason it did not get 5 stars was due to some language and sensual scenes. Each book is a different story, but all tie together with common characters. A complete fantasy experience with mages, elves, realms, portals, and gods all tied up with real Earth places that make you feel as if it could be real. Who knows, maybe it is!
January 5, 2022
I liked that even though the MCs were different in each volume, earlier characters still made an appearance. Bonded partners are supposedly extremely rare, yet I believe four occur in a couple of months and at least two former ones are referenced.
These weren’t bad stories but just didn’t hold my interest enough that I’ll read more in the series at this time.
These weren’t bad stories but just didn’t hold my interest enough that I’ll read more in the series at this time.
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April 12, 2022OMG!!! These books were amazing!!!! Loved the first book so much. The second one was a little hard to get into at first but it ended up eing amazing. I recomend this for any upper teen fantasy lovers. There is language and some sexual scenes, they are'nt very long so I just skipped through most of them so age would be 14-15+.
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