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The Four #5

The Bonds We Break

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Fear. Desire. Redemption.

When I was taken...it changed me.
Once, I was the life of the party.
Not anymore.
I told myself that I was okay. I almost believed it, until the day I was forced to face my past and my nightmare came to life.
Now the Four are the only ones I can turn to, and Cassius Drummond has made it his personal mission to help me out.
No matter how much I tell myself that he’s off-limits, the more time we spend together, the more I want him.
Bound by my past, I know I’m no good for him, and I’m nothing more than a convenient distraction while we’re stuck with each other.
It’s going to end in heartbreak.
But every time he smiles at me, I find myself falling a little bit more.

The Bonds We Break is a standalone story, but is best enjoyed after the previous four books in the series.

270 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 27, 2021

347 people are currently reading
3198 people want to read

About the author

Becca Steele

50 books4,400 followers
Becca Steele is a USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of new adult romance from contemporary to dark. Her books have been translated into multiple languages.

Becca resides in the south of England with her family. When she's not writing, you can find her reading, gaming, or curating yet another Spotify playlist.

Stalker links
http://linktr.ee/authorbeccasteele

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 289 reviews
Profile Image for Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️.
3,016 reviews2,688 followers
August 27, 2021
Cassius Drummond!



The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🖤💜🤎💚💙
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📙📕📗
World building: 🌎🌏🌍🌎
Character development: 🤬🤯☺️😲

The heroine: Jessa - In previous books she was the Queen B at Alstone High School and Alstone College. Only ever worried about keeping her status and having everyone want to be her. Until Caiden fell in love with Winter and used her to make Winter Jealous. Jessa wasn’t very nice to Winter, but Caiden did use her and because of that his Stepmother had her associates kidnap Jessa.

The Hero(es): Cassius - he is a player with the great looks, a killer body and his family has money to back it up as well. He is one of the Four (kings of Alstone College) and in previous books he was the Flirt, the funny guy and the ladies man.

The story: Cassius used to hook up with Jessa before she got interested in Caiden. At the time, they both liked the fact that it was just a hook-up with no feelings or strings. However, Jessa was kidnapped and assaulted and she feared the worst would happen when Cassius rescued her. He was nice to her but she has been suffering alone since then.

When she sees one of the men that kidnapped her out on the streets of London walking around free, she goes to Cassius for help. He genuinely wants to help her out and treats her like a good friend and he wants the benefits too, but nothing more.

I really love romance books in dual POV. I like knowing how the Hero is feeling, from when he is in denial to when he finally figures things out and especially when he is obsessed with the heroine. Cassius is great in this one.

I did love the fact that Cass is so protective of Jessa and he stayed true to form and was such a nice guy even though he was so determined to play the field. However, I thought the story got a bit boring at times when it was not on the main arc about Littlefinger (the guy that kidnapped Jessa).

Also, even though I ended up liking Jessa in the end, I just hate it when you are reading a series like this and every guy (Weston, Cassius) ends up with a girl that was introduced in the previous books. I just like a newly introduced heroine. I am a sucker for the first meeting in a romance.

NOTE TO AUTHOR: I can’t wait read Zayde’s story and I hope the heroine is a new character. I also want something on Austin and especially Creed and please don’t have Kinslee be the Heroine in any of those stories. I hope those books are very dark romances.

I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.

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Profile Image for ⭐Toonasa⭐ •Romance Book Lovers' Haven•.
1,613 reviews301 followers
August 29, 2021
Cass & Jessa...A story I was so excited for & was WORTH the wait!

A Thrilling & Sexy, Frenemies-To-Lovers College-Aged Romantic Suspense with Heated times, Beautiful Friendship, Good change, Fun Banters, Trauma & Moving forward, Spying & Action, Fling to Forever, Swoons, Love, Heartfelt & HEA.
It was a pleasant surprise that Becca matched Cass with Jessa. I love Cass from the start of series & here, came to love Jessa too! DEVOURED this book in 5hrs.

NOTE: This is a Standalone, but It's BEST READ in series order! I #HighlyRecommended this whole series😍. We already know Cass & Jessa from it, So Integral! This takes place during summer holidays mostly, before the start of their final college year.

Jessa; Cautious, Shy, Feisty; studies in the Alstone college & WAS rich, popular & bitchy. BEFORE the events of this series, She & Cass had an on & off thing going on, spreading ‘love’ 🔥. Tbh I hated Jess, Until she was kidnapped in "The Fight In Us". This event changed her, for the better. She's now humble, No fake friends, less selfish, Caring, sweet & very relatable. Now, I loved her interactions with Cass & our gang!

Cassius; Playful, Charming, Protective; is part of "The Four" –other 3 being Caiden, Zayde, Weston– friends who ‘rule’ the Alstone College. Cass is easy to love & has good fam. After the trauma Jes went through (Our 4 saved her), Cass tries to be her friend. But it's actually in this book where she's fully welcomed in our gang & slays her demons. I like how Cass brought her confidence back 😉 & It was hot to see Cass possessive of her.

It's been months since her kidnapping & with few nightmares, Jess has been trying to move on...Until on a lunch with her big brother, She sees her kidnapper again!! Wtf?! Unnerved, J goes to the one who she trusts, who can find & give her answers–Cass (& The 4!).
~On & Off, Nightmares, Changes, Fun Texts, Meet & Past saw, Bridge, Help & Truce, Flash, New normal, Attraction, Petr Shit, Flat, envelop scare, Homie, Eavesdrop hurt, Flirty, Trust, Night out, Hot & Sexy times, More or no more, Scrutinize & Truths, Welcome, Friends, Falling, Naked cooking...

Cue Talks & with danger close, their investigation starts! J+C's sparks & flirty banters are hot, Cass gives her the normalcy she craves. As the threat escalates, Cass invites her to stay in the 4's house. So much happens; J+C grow even closer, & Slowly she gets accepted into their friends group!
But what C+J has is temporary, right? Too bad. She'd fallen for him.
~Lead & Creed, Alone, Nightly hope, Sweet & sexy, Distance, Care, Sanctuary, Jealous & dance, Confront, Goofing, Pass time, Well & Ache, Goodbye, Kiss & Fuck, Halfway summer, Guys play, BBQ, Bonfire Party, Miss, Talk, Just us, Reacquaint, Date, Connect...

Then the threat is taken care of, Too Easy? But nevertheless, J+C go back to their lives, reluctantly 😭😉. Cass may've been clueless about his feelings for Jess, but we weren't! Being apart hurt. Cue Cass proposes C+J being "Exclusive Fuck buddies". But together, They fall so irrevocably in love *Swoon*. More hot🔥 sex, Dates & Fun!
Then the villain comes back *Oh shit!*..!
~Fun & Sexy, Hunch, Kidnapped, Panic, Showdown, Why, Saved & cavalry, Recover, Earnest & Break, Feelings obvious, College starts, Club surprise, Dance, Vulnerability & Sweetness, I love yous, Family, Official...

A normal day turned to her nightmare *Shudder*. Gladly rescue's fast, Cass is such a hero! We get Action, Reasons (Dark & funny!), Revenge. Jess recovered & stayed away from Cass. Her feelings too strong. Causing pain & numbness in him...But when Cass FINALLY realises his love for her, what he did was sooo swoony😍, A surprise! Emotional & Sexy. I'm so happy for Cass+Jessa!! Loved the ending & epilogues. #MustRead

P.s. (Btw, Its a fun tidbit that both C+J are bi!)
I loved seeing Caiden+Winter & Weston+Lena here! So fun to see the previous couples🥰. I hope we get the mysterious Zayde's book (& other side characters' too) soon! I love the friendship this gang has♥️.
**ARC Gotten for a Honest Review.**
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Profile Image for M.
731 reviews320 followers
October 14, 2021
4.5 stars!

It was SO nice to be back with The Four again! I've missed this group of friends so much.
There is something very special about their friendship. They are brothers and fiercely protective of the ones they love. If you're in their tight group, consider yourself a friend for life.
Get on their bad side and they will rain down hell on you.

Cassius was everything! I adored getting to know him in the first 3 books. He is the fun playboy. Always smiling and making things light when they are filled with so much darkness. Behind the smile, behind the laugh, behind the charmer is a boy a bit broken. Feels like he needs to not show his friends that he is fact human and can be hurt, sad or angry.

Jessa has been through so much. She was trying to get some sort of normal back after her kidnapping. I hadn't been a fan of hers for many reasons, but my heart hurt for what she went through. She slowly grew on me. Her frigidness melted away and she blossomed into something special. All with the help of one Cassius Drummond.

He was there for her through her journey to find herself again - emotionally, mentally and sexually. He helped her through it all. Helped her to realize that she was worthy and that her ordeal didn't define her. What started as something just to feel a lust filled void turned into much, much more.

If you're in the mood for a sexy frenemies to lovers read this one is for you. It is a standalone, but reading the previous books will just sweeten this book and help you fall in more in love with these characters.
Profile Image for Kate V.
1,864 reviews371 followers
Read
August 23, 2021
DNF

I won't rate this because this is a 'it's me, not the book' situation. I wanted way more for Cassius and a completely different heroine. I really hated Jessa in the previous books. So going to have to shelve this one.
Profile Image for Lammie.
754 reviews39 followers
April 12, 2022
4.5⭐️.

Can’t believe I left this sitting in my kindle for so long.

I loved being back in this world with these characters. Cassius is sweet and hot and Jessa turned herself around and found forgiveness and acceptance.

The opening and closing blowjob remark … well damn 😆😆😆

Can’t wait to get my hands on the books for Zayde, Creed, and Austin 🤗
Profile Image for Ana Flavia.
213 reviews14 followers
August 31, 2021
I don't even know where to start criticizing this book.... I already read it knowing that it wouldn't be a read that I would enjoy so much, but I also didn't think it would be THAT bad.

This book is poorly constructed, the scenes are short with no development at all, and no explanation at all, there is a scene that could have been deepened and what did Becca do? She let it go. The characters are also poorly built, I didn't feel a connection with jessa much less with cassius which was the worst thing about this book for me by the way.

I need to talk about the club scene, what the fuck was that one, when I read that scene on Facebook that Becca posted I already started freaking out because I hate threesomes and I was afraid she would do it as a “cure” for jessa's traumas. And that's what happened, they hooked up and all the time I thought “this is so unnecessary”! She used this scene to rid jessa of all her traumas, which in itself is horrible, when I asked Becca saying that this scene wouldn't be cool she said: "I'll make sense in the book I promise" And guess what? ? It didn't make sense it was just some stupid, disgusting sexualization that added nothing to the story.

This book is made up of short scenes, as it has no development neither of the characters themselves, much less the drama of the series. All “problems” in this book were solved in less than 3 pages. Until now I didn't understand half of what happened in this book, because everything was so rushed, without any preparation.

These are definitely the worst characters in this series -and the worst book for sure-. When I started reading I already knew it was going to be bad but I didn't know it would make me regret having opened this book.

Cassius my god what to say about this idiot. First what kind of man lets the girl he wants to catch be with someone else? And jessa also letting him kiss the blonde girl 🤢🤮 (this is the radioactive scene from the club) there wasn't a jealousy scene, a scene of them caring for each other, I felt 0 connection towards them, for me this book never should have happened. What a horrible book and characters.
Profile Image for NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books}.
1,563 reviews82 followers
September 2, 2021
***5 "Sex Voodoo!!!" stars***

NOW AVAILABLE!



"All the best love stories start with an epic bl*wj*b..." (LOL)

Who would have thought that Cassius Drummond, the crazy manwhore and dedicated player, would fall and how deeply will fall!!!!
But the real surprise in here is for which girl Cassius had fallen!!!
For the bitch herself!!!! Jessa De Witt!!! One of the villains in Winter and Cade's story!!!
Wow!!! Just wow!!! Becca did the unthinkable and look how perfect it turned out!!!
This couple was so freakin' hot and the intensity were pouring out off the pages in big tidal waves!!!!

"You ruined my life. Now, I ruin yours."

Jessa wasn't a nice girl before.... She was the queen bee of the campus and she had made some questionable things... But then, she got pulled unwillingly on the Four's drama and her life changed drastically...
After the attack Jessa is not the same person anymore... The only ray of hope is these stupid messages full of crazy memes on the thread that Cassius Drummond had added her...
But now, the threat is coming back and Cassius is taking it upon his shoulders to become her hero, even if this is the worst possible idea that he ever had.

"I thought I was untouchable, but I was wrong. How easily it all came crashing down."

Cassius was always the lighthearted of the Four and the one who was lifting their spirits with jokes and unappropriate, silly comments...
But Cassius is so much more than that!!! He has a huge heart and for a reason, he wants to help Jessa De Witt... He feels responsible for her, even though she had hurt his loved ones in the past...
He just can't ignore her pain and he wants to help her...

"Anyone who defines you by your past doesn't know the real you."

Cassius and Jessa weren't unknown between them, but when they are starting to come closer, their feelings get tangled in an unknown situation for both of them...
Unfortunately, it isn't so easy for them to act upon these feelings.... Especially when it is hard to acknowledge them themselves...
So can two "enemies" fall in love??? No matter the consequences???

"What was it about Cassius that made me feel lighter after I'd been feeling hopeless for so long?"

Well, I freakin' loved this story!!!
Cassius already owned a big piece of my heart, but in here, he made me swoon over him constantly...
As for Jessa??? OMG!!! I would never have thought that I will love her, but the new Jessa had stolen my heart along Cassius...
These two couldn't be more perfect for each other... When they were in the same vicinity the temperature was rising in very dangerous levels and I freakin' loved it!!!

"I wanted more of her. To consume her."

Yep, Becca dared to write a story about a very favorite character and to pair him with a very despisable woman...
But guess what??? In my eyes, she succeeded on this mission...
She made the villain to become loveable and this is a great maestry, don't you think???
And now, I can not wait for Zayde's book!!! And why not??? Creed's!!! ;-)

“Even if I only got to have him for a little while, even if it left me broken, it would be worth it. So worth it.”

**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
Profile Image for C. Lymari.
Author 32 books1,108 followers
September 8, 2021
I fucking loved Jess and Cass! I am a fan of the bad girl redeeming herself, and I think we can all agree she did. Jessa was strong, but she found real friends to help her on her healing journey, and I think that's what I loved about this book. The way Cass was there for her. How they both slowly started to fall for each other, was beautiful. The swoon, and the sexy times **chef's kiss** Is there anything Becca can't write?
Profile Image for jess.
396 reviews214 followers
August 16, 2021
*ARC provided for an honest review*

The Bonds We Break is Cassius story and I’ve been anticipating it since his character was first introduced!!
Cassius was honestly such a memorable and intriguing side character in the previous books of the series so finally having his pov was exciting to read and dive into.

Cassius and Jessa have a strong bond that developed so well along the story. Her character really intrigued me because of certain actions that were taken in the previous books but I’m so proud of her because of how strong she became. She’s been through something that caused her to feel weak but it only made her stronger. Cassius the only man ever!! He’s the type to be there for someone and care so deeply. He’s someone that Jessa needed. Their relationship has got to be one of my favorites now. Every single moment they had together I loved. Whether it were the vulnerable moments, the ones with most desire, or the happy ones….their chemistry just sparked.

Becca Steele did so well in capturing all the moments between Cassius and Jessa, and even with The Four. The friendships in this series are my absolute favorite for the way they’re more like family and always come out fierce and strong! I’m excited for what’s to come!!
Profile Image for Greta.
467 reviews
August 24, 2021
*ARC provided in exchange of an honest review*

Cassius Drummond è il mio personaggio preferito sin dall'inizio di questa serie. E sono soddisfatta del suo libro? Si e no.

Leggendo la trilogia dedicata a Caiden e Winter sono entrata in una sorta di mondo nuovo, nuova storia, nuovi personaggi, nuovo tutto. Avevo le mie preferenze e i personaggi che mi interessavano meno, ma i primi tre libri, specialmente il primo li avevo amati tantissimo.
Arrivando al libro di Weston c'è stato un calo per me, lui e Lena come personaggi singoli e come coppia non mi sono mai interessati ma l'ho letto lo stesso, in quanto questa serie segue una linea temporale (e quindi la storia di fondo va avanti sin dall'inizio) ed ero sicura che saltandolo avrei perso dei pezzi. Essendo Cass il mio preferito ero super contenta di leggere il suo libro.... ma per dio, non in coppia con Jessa DeWitt. Quando ho saputo mi era sceso tutto l'hype nel giro di mezzo secondo.

Jessa sicuramente alcuni se la sono già dimenticata, è apparsa poche volte nei primi 4 libri e non faró spoiler, ma diciamo che per colpa di Caiden è vittima di un qualcosa, e rimane traumatizzata. Cass si affeziona a lei (fra di loro in passato c'era già stato del tenero) e iniziano pian piano a conoscersi meglio e a formare una sorta di coppia.
Questo libro, come quello di Weston, sono uguali ai primi tre. Non cambia pressochè niente, ne leggi uno e li hai letti tutti. Sono peró uno spasso perchè si leggono benissimo e non sono eccessivamente lunghi? Si.
A questo libro do sicuramente un punto in più rispetto al #3 perchè l'ho ovviamente apprezzato di più ma ora sono sicura più che mai che dopo aver concluso la serie con Zayde non prenderó più in mano libri che hanno a che fare con il mondo dei The Four - e anche perchè i personaggi secondari.. a chi interessano? Onestà prima di tutto. Saluti!
Profile Image for SCBookAddict.
645 reviews52 followers
August 22, 2021
Becca Steele did what most authors don't even think about doing in The Bonds We Break. She made the villain REDEEMABLE!

I'm pretty sure none of us were thinking, "I sure do hope Jessa gets a happy ending," after reading Caiden and Winter’s story. I'm also pretty sure most of us were doubting this story when Becca Steele revealed she was pairing Jessa with CASSIUS! But guess what! Becca made it work!

See, in order for Jessa to be redeemable, she had to fall off her high horse and she did so by getting pulled unwillingly into the Four's drama. I felt for her because she's lost what she was but also is at the mercy of those who she played havoc with.

Let me just say that Cassius and Jessa are FIRE together. The dance club scene was freaking hot! I loved seeing them develop feelings for each other - even if it took some time for them to figure it out.

This story caught me by surprise and I love that the author could make magic happen by changing my attitude towards one of her characters.

I can't wait to see what she has in store next for this series!
Profile Image for Bethany (Bee_TheBibliophile).
719 reviews43 followers
August 20, 2021
I’ve loved Cassius since the first book in this series and I couldn’t wait until we got his story. The Bonds We Break is the fifth book in the series and it picks up not long after the end of The Fight In Us. I really love the dynamics of The Four, so I was excited to dive back into their world.

Cassius Drummond is the jokester in The Four, always looking for ways to have fun, flirt or lighten the mood. I’m really glad that all of that comes through in this book and so much more - we get to see the depth of his character beyond just what he shows to the world. Cass is so charming, endearing, genuine and super sexy that you can’t help but smile when he’s on the page.

Jessa De Witt is really different from the other heroines in this series - she’s seductive, lonely, hurting and emotionally closed-off. Jessa has always been on the outside of The Four’s group, but has been part of their lives for years. After her kidnapping, her life was turned upside down and Cassius is the one that’s there for her to keep her safe and figure out a new normal. I would have loved to see more of her healing in this story - she went through a really traumatic experience and I feel like so many things could have been addressed here or made part of the story to get her through it.

I really wanted to love Cass and Jessa together, but their relationship felt rushed. I know they had some history, but they went from friends with benefits to lovers really fast and I feel like we missed some critical development for them together. They definitely fit together well and were pretty adorable, but I didn’t feel a deep connection between them until close to the end of the book.

I think what I was missing most from this book was the action and suspense that was so prevalent in the other books in this series. I was waiting for the action to pick up and when I’d gotten to 65% and it still hadn’t happened, I was frustrated. Then when it finally did play out, I wasn’t surprised by what happened like I was with the other The Four stories. There also wasn’t much on-page bonding time between all of the guys and I really missed seeing their dynamic play out with each other.

But, I’m really looking forward to Zayde’s story - he was quiet in this book and he’s such a mystery that I feel like I’m going to be really surprised when we finally get a peek inside his head. Oh, and I’m keeping my fingers crossed for stories for Creed and Austin in the future!
Profile Image for SP.
576 reviews121 followers
July 27, 2022
I was the most excited for Cassius’ book. I had such high hopes for this one and they kind of fell flat. I decided I was going to go into this one with an open mind, and I really tried. I was actually pleasantly surprised by Jessa, I liked getting to know her more and see her grow.

My issues were I wasn’t really captivated by this story. The connection between these characters felt rushed. I wish I would have seen more of the actual relationship grow.
A few of the elements of the story rubbed me the wrong way, such as the scene with cassius, Jessa and another girl… that just wasn’t really needed in my opinion.

With all this being said, I will still read the other books in this series, since I loved the other. Becca is honestly an amazing author I just think this book wasn’t for me. But I still think you should give it a try if you live her other books.
Profile Image for Lager Lefse Book Blog.
566 reviews4 followers
August 28, 2021

Becca Steele has done it again. The Four, along with their significant others, made this book. A part of that group is Cassius and Jessa. Their storyline is emotional, temperamental, loving, and downright steamy, so don’t forget your fan! The Bonds We Break is full of everything. Mystery, intrigue, fear, anxiety, tenuous love to unbreakable bonds. A five-star read!!

As much as we know that Cass is the true lead in this book, I believe we need to take a step back and look at Jessa. If you have read the previous books, you know what I’m talking about. If not, that’s ok, here is your little cheat sheet on Jessa De Witt.

“I am Jessa De Witt, the girl that everyone wanted to be.”

Jessa has only ever known what it’s like to be a Queen B. First at Alstone High and then Alstone College. She wants to be top dog. To have everyone want to be her and will do what she can to maintain this status. Prior to Winter (Cade’s girlfriend), Cassius and Cade, consecutively, had one-night stands with her with no commitment involved, which worked for them at that time. Due to a miscommunication, Jessa is kidnapped (in place of Winter) and goes through some traumatizing experiences. Cassius is one of her rescuers from this horrifying situation. Flash to the present, Jessa is continuing to have some personal issues and when she needs help, the one person she can contact is Cassius.

Cass is just one of the guys that stood out to me from the beginning. Granted, I could safely say that statement about all the guys, but Cass is someone special. His character is fun, flirty, the ‘playboy’ of the group and the joker to lighten the situation/atmosphere. The thing is this is not all that Cassius Drummond is. It is extremely gratifying as a reader to get to see his layers being peeled back to see him, the real Cassius. Due to Jessa’s recent flare up of nightmares and anxiety over past circumstances, Cassius is rising to the Protector mode. A mode that suits him well. He will not let anyone hurt her again.

“Jessa, I’m not going anywhere, okay? You’re safe now. Safe with me.”

So, how do you take a hated enemy into a loved and accepted part of ‘The Four’ family? Simple, have Becca Steele write the story. The Evolution that Cassius and Jessa have gone through is magical and inspiring. The same can be said about Jessa and the rest of ‘The Four’ family. Cassius and Jessa are steamy, pure fire together, yet caring and affectionate. Jessa is the perfect counterpart to Cass.

“You’re important to Cass, and that means that you’re important to the rest of us.”

I can safely say that Jessa De Witt pleasantly surprised me. Her priorities shifted and a case of growing, maturing, and evolving into the strong and confident, non-judgmental, values friendships, and truly learn how to love has taken place. Jessa De Witt is a true reason to not judge a book by it’s cover.


Profile Image for Siobhan (Bookish Vibes).
890 reviews36 followers
August 23, 2021
The Bonds We Break is book 5 in The Four series and was completely addictive with all of it's steamy romance, drama and humour. It was great to be back in the land of The Four, even if I did devour the book in one sitting!

Ahh Cassius, I knew I was going to love him 🥰 Him and Zayde have been my favourite characters throughout the series so I was excited to get his story! I was kind of hoping he would have some darkness hiding behind his happy, jokester facade but he is legit just a nice guy 🤣 When I heard Jessa was his love interest I was curious how Becca was going to turn this pretty hated character into a loved one but she did it!! She is completely different after everything that happened to her and is adjusting to her new normal and figuring out who she really is. I love Cassius and Jessa together. Their relationship was the perfect mix of cute and steamy. I loved the dual point of views, especially as the MC's fight their feelings for each other.

As for the story, it was fast paced and full of plenty of action just like the previous books in the series. While the guys think everything that happened previously is all over and done with, danger is lurking and about to threaten their new found peace. It did feel a little rushed in places but overall I really enjoyed the way it flowed.

10/10 would recommend for all you new adult romance fans. Now bring on Zayde's story 😍😍
Profile Image for queen_of_the_books_18.
895 reviews244 followers
August 27, 2021
Falling for him was the worst thing I can do.

If you love frenemies to lovers, college romances with some suspense then this is the book for you.

It’s book 5 in the Four series and can be read as a standalone but will be enjoyed better if you read the previous books first.

Cassius Drummond, what can I say. This guy has been a secret favourite (calm down Z, you are still my number 1) drawing me in with his witty banter and hilarious antics. We all know though, the guy that uses humour to cover up their insecurities is the guy who is going to fall the hardest and when Cassius finally allowed himself to fall, boy did he fall.

If you’ve read the previous books then you know Jessa. You know we didn’t particularly like her in previous books and I was slightly apprehensive learning she was Cassius’ heroine but I can’t stress enough what an amazing idea it was. These two were just perfect for each other. Their chemistry was off the charts and when they had their intimate moments my heart was so big.

As always you get to see the rest of the Four and they were better than ever!
I can’t get enough of this series and I need my Zayde’s book pronto!
Profile Image for Van nee.
311 reviews21 followers
August 31, 2021
This story focuses on one of the Four, Cassius and his casual hookup, Jessa and how it eventually morphs into a relationship. I was concerned that Jessa's role as the OW in Caiden and Winter's story would taint my enjoyment of this story at first. However, since it's been a while since I've read the first 3 books, this wasn't a big problem although the events surrounding Jessa's role as the OW are revisited a few times. However, Jessa's problems slowly take center stage and her relationship with Cassius takes precedence in the story. The characters are all the same from the previous stories in this series, including the bad guy, Little Finger. However the focus obviously is on Cass and Jessa who have chemistry and steamy scenes. I enjoyed their push-pull and actually felt empathy for Jessa as she regrets some of her past actions but especially as she feels angst in her relationship with Cassius. The events with Little Finger were annoying and didn't hold my interest as much as the Cass-Jessa relationship, so I ended up skimming through those pages but still came away with the gist of that particular OTT drama. Still, I enjoyed the story and the building of C and J's relationship. Looking forward to Zayde's story.
Profile Image for Mandyloves2read.
1,791 reviews171 followers
August 31, 2021
This book was sooo good I loved being back with the Four the banter the friendships this crew is just everything and Cassius is so freaking sexy I love his heart he truly cares for other people and the sex in this book is so damn good I think this might be Becca’s steamiest book to date ! Also I didn’t think it was possible for me to even like Jessa but by the middle of this book I absolutely loved her my heart hurt for her I felt her pain her loneliness her just wanting to fit in and be accepted this book definitely had me up in all the feels and did I already mention the sex holy shit was it off the charts hot the chemistry between these two was amazing I don’t think there could’ve been a better pairing these two were made for each other. Cassius needed a strong confident woman to handle him and tame his playboyish ways and Jessa was perfect for him in every way. I could go on and on but I’ll stop here and just say READ THIS STORY!!! This series is one of my favorites and I highly recommend !

*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced complimentary copy of this book *
Profile Image for brayshaw_love.
379 reviews36 followers
January 6, 2023
Huge improvement over book 4

After being unable to really connect with Weston and Lena's story in book 4 I debated on whether or not I wanted to continue the series, but Cassius was my favorite from the original trilogy of books and I really wanted him to find his person. I'm so glad I decided to give this one a chance as I adored the entire thing. It once again had what felt like a perfect balance between the spice and actual development of romantic feelings between them. I loved seeing both characters mature and grow as individuals too. I liked that we had more of group dynamic in this one as well.

Definitely noticed a lot more British phrases or what I'm assuming is their way of saying things. It did get irritating at times because for me it just reads like it is bad grammar at times, or just doesn't make sense at all, or just sounds way to formal for these college kids. I didn't get as much of that feeling in the first 3 books so it took me a bit off guard. But that is a personal preference, not something that is necessarily bad.
Profile Image for ReadingInPyjamas.
736 reviews
August 27, 2021
Cassius is my second favourite character from this series and I desperately needed a book for him. It's fair to say Becca Steele did not disappoint. She delivered an awesome story that kept me reading way past my bedtime. It was steamy, suspenseful, heart-gripping, and entertaining. I had my doubts in the beginning, that Jessa would be a suitable match for Cassius, but the chemistry was there and she changed so much, and they just clicked in the end. Told in dual POV, the story is fast-paced, but with enough room for character development. The plotline is intriguing, and it will keep you on your toes, and the sexy scenes are over the charts hot. A great addition to The Four series!
Profile Image for Samantha.
61 reviews85 followers
August 21, 2021
Ugh CASSIUS MF DRUMMOND. So I knew going in I would love this man and this book. The first line was a great intro into exactly who Cassius is 😂. He was always my favorite (I got a thing for the funny but possessive alpha males) and this one DID NOT disappoint.

My heart went through all the emotions for Jessa. Originally I HATED her in the first couple of books because of how she treated Winter but after all the crap that took place your heart couldn’t help but feel some sort of sympathy for her.

Cassius taking the role for helping Jessa through all the shit was everything I needed for them. I wanted to punch him in the throat a few times but in the end we got were we needed to be (lmao). I loved their story so much!

13/15 for me!

PS …. CAN WE TALK ABOUT THAT DANCE FLOOR SCENE THO … 🥵🥵
Profile Image for The Smutbrarians.
2,239 reviews1,745 followers
August 29, 2021
Feels 3
Steam 4
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 4
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Stephanie

Our favorite Four are back and this time it’s all about Cassius and Jessa. Thankfully we still get plenty of all our other favs in this book. I love Cass and have been waiting for his story. I knew there was something special about the ladies man and his signature sexy smirk. And we all remember Jessa DeWitt...the girl you couldn’t help but love to hate. I will admit I was a bit skeptical when I found out Jessa would be the heroine. But somehow the author made it all work.

“I thought I was untouchable, but I was wrong. How easily it all came crashing down.”

Jessa used to be the queen bee of Alstone college. The token mean girl who’d stab you in the front just so she could see the look on your face. We all remember how much of a super bitch she was to Winter when Caiden chose her. I mean, in all fairness, he did use Jessa too. But the Jessa we knew before, the one I loathed, was not the same Jessa we see in this book. Severe trauma reshapes a person and getting kidnapped did that to Jessa. She is just a shell of the person she once was. All of the popularity and everything that came along with it doesn’t matter to her now. She sees things differently and is trying her best to tell herself she is okay. That all changes when the monster from her nightmares becomes an unwelcome reality. She’s scared and automatically turns to the one person she knows can help her, Cassius Drummond.

“Life was good, and I was happy. I was the master of my own fucking destiny. Everything was as it should be. Until it wasn’t.”

Cass and Jessa have a history...a hot and steamy one. One that goes back before Jessa set her sites on Caiden. The reason Jessa was taken is woven around and intertwined with the four so it makes sense she would turn to them. Cass is right there for her. In a way, he feels responsible for her, and I love how protective he is. We see a different side of him in this book too. Always the joker and player...he’s different with Jessa. You could tell something was there between them right away even if there are no strings attached. I also love how even though Jessa was scared, she was still strong. She didn’t let what happened completely break her. The broken parts she willingly let Cass help heal. I really liked how their relationship developed and although the others weren’t too keen on her being there in the beginning, she slowly became part of the group. The friendships and bonds in this series are one of my favorite things about it.

“I wanted more of her. To consume her. Like I said. Completely and utterly fucked.”

This book didn’t have as much drama and suspense as the previous books. It was more centered around Jessa and Cass and how they really saw each other and grew together. There were a lot of super steamy parts and just random quick spots of suspense and drama tossed in the mix. Two people who I never thought would end up together, but it just worked. I love Cass. I wouldn’t say I love Jessa...but I do like her. I really enjoyed this book, but it’s not my favorite of the series so far. It was a little slower paced than the others. I am really, REALLY looking forward to Zayde’s book.

“What did I say? All the best love stories start with an epic blowjob. Mine did.”
Profile Image for Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer).
972 reviews83 followers
August 17, 2021
If you’re looking for a story that has Drama, Suspense, Mystery, Angst and a whole lot of tension with some comedic moments thrown in, whilst taking you through a maze filled with twists and turn. Then look no further because Becca Steele brought it all when it came to Cassius and Jessa’s story in The Bonds We Break. At every corner, with every page turn something was always happening. Taking a hold of you until the very end. Plus with all the Sizzling Sexy steam added on top of the already craziness that surrounded the storytelling of Cassius and Jessa. It was the cherry on top of the sundae.

Jessa De Witt may have been the popular, mean girl who was all about being the center of the attention in the beginning. But with having suffered through a traumatic event, she is no longer the same person with now being just a shell of her former self. Instead she keeps to herself, whilst trying to get through the trauma that continues to haunt her.

Cassius ‘Cass’ Demetri Drummond has always been a sort of happy go lucky guy, hanging with friends, partying and having a way with the ladies. With a witty banter that has him constantly laughing and joking around, he is always ready to flip everyone’s and anyone's mood in bringing a lightness whenever the mood is somber.

Although Cassius and Jessa’s relationship may have started off as being friends with benefits. You could see and feel there was much more to it than that, whether they wanted to admit to it or not. Considering the more time they spent together, the more their relationship evolved in coming through with feelings and emotions they tried not to acknowledge. Thinking the other didn’t and/or wouldn’t feel the same way.
Safe to say, though Jessa and Cassius may have brought the fire when it came to being f*ck buddies through the passionate moments that came out of it that was Caliente. They still brought a hell of a lot more, the further their relationship grew. Seeing as they were able to help each other out through their lustrous desires when needed. Leading to an attachment being formed, considering they both were able to bring out a side to each other that they hadn’t and/or couldn’t be or show to others. Resulting in a flourishing connection that intertwined them together. All of which linked to a special bond between the Jessa and Cassius. Making it obvious they were the perfect fit together and were meant to be end game.

Whilst I did enjoy The Bonds We Break, my only critique would be the lead up to the climax and the aftermath wasn’t what I hoped it would be. I just expected more intensity within the action that took place, resulting in a bigger explosion had the scene been fleshed out a little more and deeper than the actual results shown.

However with all that said, Becca still pulled through in bringing together a story that worthy of Cassius. Resulting in the HEA he deserved with Jessa.
I look forward to seeing what she will bring when it comes to the final member of The Four Zayde.



*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for RomanceBookObsessedGirl.
129 reviews14 followers
August 29, 2021
I thought I couldn’t love Cassius Drummond any more than I already did, but boy how wrong was I! I have fell even more in love with him after reading his amazing story. He is just amazing inside and out and makes me laugh my arse off every time. If you know me by now, I alway go for the ones with a good sense of humour, the cocky playboy. Cass is my top book boyfriend by far 🥰

“𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐚 𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲, 𝐚𝐥𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭.” 𝐀 𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬. “𝐇𝐞𝐲, 𝐥𝐞𝐭’𝐬 𝐠𝐨 𝐮𝐩𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞-𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐞—𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐠𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐝 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐮𝐩 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥.”

I honestly don’t know what to say about his book because it was so amazing, I really won’t give it justice. Iv never wanted to highlight a book so much! But with this one, I nearly highlighted the whole thing because it was just amazing from start to finish!

Iv always had a feeling that Jessa was going to be Cass love interest and I really didn’t want her for my boy because of everything she put Winter through, and Winters my girl! After reading their book and getting to known Jessa more and how much she has changed since everything happened, made me love her. I’m so glad that she ended up being Cass’s girl, because they are made for each other. We also get to see the rest of the group, which made the book even more awesome! Iv missed them all so so much!

“𝘽𝙖𝙗𝙚. 𝙇𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝘼𝙣𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙢𝙖𝙯𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙪𝙩.”

Anyway! Enough of my rambling. This book is hot as hell 🔥🥵 it will have you crying, but then laughing your head off at the next chapter, it will have you shouting at your kindle for them to stop being so in denial! The twist and turns in this book was amazing. Becca is amazing and thank you for bringing us these amazing characters that we love like our own. I can’t wait for more.
Profile Image for Laura Kendrick.
234 reviews
August 16, 2021
When I say that this book consumed me today I’m not exaggerating.. it turned up on my kindle at around 6am and I’ve finished it already, I just could not put it down. I have been sooooo excited and (im)patiently waiting for Cassius and Becca completely nailed it. The Four is obviously one of my favourite book series (hello tattoo 👀) and I could not wait to dive back in to the world of Alstone.

It was full of the humour and wit you expect from Cassius but we saw a different side to our lovable boy in this, his sweet, caring nature was just swoooooony. Honestly Cass is absolutely one of my favourite book characters I’ve ever read. He’s hilarious, smart, loyal, sexy af and just such a likeable character.

Ok so when Becca revealed the love interest for Cassius to say I was SHOOK would be an understatement. If you’ve read the series you’ll know that Jessa is a controversial character in the first 3 books and I just didn’t know how I was going to grow to like her.. but honestly it wasn’t even hard. As soon as I started reading things from her POV I just loved her instantly.

I don’t want to give any spoilers away so I’m going to stop there as I could talk about this book and series forever but all I will say is Becca you absolutely smashed this. Cassius and the gang were back with a bang, it had everything we’ve come to expect from this series and if you are sleeping on this, you NEED TO READ IT NOW!! The first 4 books are already out and this comes out on the 27th. 💗
Profile Image for Emma.
170 reviews31 followers
August 16, 2021
3.5

"You're Cassius Drummond."
"I am. How did you know?"
"Your reputation precedes you."


I've been in love with Cassius since his first appearance in the series, he was always my favorite and I am so pleased to say I love him even more after his book. I think he was the best part of the story, his personality and humor are so charming I could read him all day.

About our heroine...I liked Jessa, she's very different from the first books and shows good development. She and Cassius make a power duo with strong and seductive personalities.

Me: Big promises
Sex God: Big dick.
Me: BIG ego
Sex God: With good reason.


They were really funny and cute, but I'd have loved to see a slower development between them. I feel like their relationship was a little rushed and they went from fuck buddies to lovers really quick. But they were so adorable I didn't mind it.

Besides Cassius, I was eager to read about the plot and how Jessa's past with Petr was going to be added to the story and even if it wasn't as shocking or mysterious as the previous books I liked the touch.

Of course, I loved all the crumbs of the past couples -wintercaiden, I missed you- and the family dynamic this group of friends has. I can't want to read Zayde's mind and his girl!






Profile Image for Sierra.
97 reviews1 follower
August 28, 2021
The Bonds We Break is book 5 in The Four series and is a standalone, but I highly recommend reading in order for the best reading experience.

I was not prepared for this book. When I heard that Jessa was going to be the heroine after all the shit that she had put the four through in the previous ones, I was so excited to see where Becca would take this.

This book pulled at every single emotion. You would be laughing your head off at Cass's hilarity and the next your heartstrings are being pulled for Jessa.

I won't spoil anything, but as we know from the previous books, Jessa was taken and held captive because someone mistakenly thought she was Caiden’s girlfriend. Feeling like it was their fault, Cass steps in to help Jessa recover. Jessa's story of being a badass woman who really didn't take a lot of shit to realizing who she is after a tragic incident was written so beautifully that there's no question Jessa is the right choice for Cass.

Cass hung onto the playboy life as long as possible and watching him realize he's actually in love with Jessa was the best thing I've read for in a long time. He had me crying with laughter from literally the first sentence. And watching him fall in love was more of a treat than I expected. Another five star read for the four. I can not WAIT for Z's book!
Profile Image for Katslovesbooks.
1,036 reviews25 followers
August 27, 2021


In true Becca Steele fashion, she writes the most perfect story with the most sexy hero and heroine who will make you fall in love with the story and make you wish for more.

This book had me hooked from page one and Cass has become my number one (sorry Caiden).

This story has a little bit of everything. Friendship, action, steam, suspense, angst, some very entertaining moments and a love story that honestly left me wanting more and more.

The love choice for Cassius interest took me by surprise, and Becca made me love a character that I previously dislike and never though could like so much. Bravo Becca.

One word for Cass and Jessa is HOT. Their chemistry was so good and they balance each other so well. Cass the ever fun guy, the playboy in heart will have his world turn upside down because nobody can see him as well as Jessa.

Definitely recommend this book and the entire series.
Profile Image for Shedevilreads Bookstagram.
2,171 reviews108 followers
January 13, 2022
The Bonds We Break by Becca Steele is a mature new adult romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Kelli Tager and Gregory Salinas.

This is the fifth book in The Four Series and can be read as a standalone. However, I would recommend reading the previous books since the stories are interconnected.

I absolutely love Becca’s books! I was hooked from the very beginning and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I loved the relationship that bloomed between Cassius and Jessa. Their relationship is a bit messy, but they are perfect for each other. I loved that we got both of their points of view throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.

I can't wait for Zayde's book to be announced!

Kelli and Gregory did an amazing job on the narration! I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.

I would recommend this book if you like new adult romances or romantic suspense.


The Flock Team
Audiobook Obsession Reviewer
Profile Image for Sophie Ruthven.
2,344 reviews146 followers
August 25, 2021
This book pleasantly surprised me. So although it didn't captivate me as much as the others, it deserves all the stars because of how the author masterfully changed my opinion about a certain character.
I'm not going to go into details or name names since the blurb left it out (if you like spoilers other reviews have the name), but I will say that this was a brilliant redemption story in more ways than one, and I love how all of then grew in this book.
Definitely a good addition to the series.
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