Bound To The Elf Prince

Once Upon a Fairy Tale Romance #4

by Jessica Grayson, Aria Winter

Inspired by Snow White, a steamy fairy tale retelling...

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Elves, Retellings, Royalty, Fantasy Romance, Magic

ebook

Published September 21, 2021

About the author

USA Today bestselling author, Jessica Grayson writes scifi and fantasy romance with strong heroines and the otherworldly heroes that cannot help but fall in love with them.

She lives with her husband, cat and dog in the San Antonio, TX area. In addition to reading and writing scifi romance, she loves swimming, chai and dark chocolate.

For more information, follow her on www.jessicagraysonauthor.com

Reviews

[Jen ♥]

ehhh it was okay, i guess 🤷‍♀️


It was insta-love, so if that's not your jam, you might not enjoy this one.

Anyway, in the beginning, it was an arranged marriage to forge a connection against their common enemy (which they didn't even face at all). It was supposed to be just a transactional arrangement, but we all know how these things usually turn out.

Since this is inspired by Snow White, there's an evil stepmother who only shows her real color in the later part. The story then turned into this whole thing about Lyana claiming her rightful crown, with Caelen supporting her in that mission.

This book was pretty short (280+?), so everything happens really fast. Even though this is basically a quick read, I ended up skimming through some parts because the chemistry between the MCs wasn't as palpable as I hoped it would be, and that kind of dampens my interest. 🫣

Tbf, I'm not sure if the issue lies with the book itself or with my current mood while reading it. I was not just feeling it. 😬 It's safe, but it's also meh. 🤷‍♀️ Maybe the other books are better???


Book info:
- Arranged marriage
- Elf x Human
- Violence, death
- Insta-love
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- Dual V!
- HEA

Note:
- Lyana has a dwarf best friend who's in love with her. But she only sees him as a friend. Until the end of the book, she never found out about his feelings for her. Also, the OM accepted the fact that he never stood a chance with her, and he even became friends with Caelen.

[Viv “BookVixen” Gutierrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another epic read from a great author who excels at world building, character development and swoon worthy romance.

Totally 100% safe. Double virgins. HEA

[Amanda Mant · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love how much he loves her

I love how much he loves her. Seriously, this is borderline enemies to lovers because they are species who are enemies. Even though these two are never mean to each other. In fact I love how patient and open they are in the beginning. Both a bit scared, but knowing they’re doing the right thing.

Watching these two fall in love was beautiful. The moments in the cave were frankly heartwarming.

I liked how this book used the Snow White storyline while still managing to be very unique. I love that about this series. I also love getting to see the stories intertwine.

I don’t like that this cover (on Amazon) looks like it belongs to a completely different series. Not sure why that is, but it’s not a good choice. It’s not a bad cover, it just doesn’t look like it fits. That said, the book definitely fits with the rest. It’s a series I highly recommend.

[Cristina Machado · Rating 5 out of 5]

I live for a suculent and massive epic fantasy romance, like Miranda Honfleur’s Blade and Rose series. But I can't resist the smallest reading packs either, and in this modality I already have a favorite author: Jessica Grayson. “Bound to the elf prince” is number 4 in “Once upon a fairy tale romance” series and, just like the previous ones, it brings everything I could want to read in a romantic fantasy. There is a hint of political intrigues among human and magical kingdoms; glimpses of world building (they increase with each story); a plausible and cutest relation between hero and heroine (they gradually approach and learn to trust each other) and, of course, good steamy scenes in the right measure. There also cameos of the previous heroes and heroines in the series and I simply love this. “Bound” presents the classic Snow White and it does not lack the mirror and the apple, but this time they have twists that tell us a somewhat different story. Oh, we have the dwarves too, but I can tell you that I've never seen dwarves be as sexy as Bran and his brothers (Jessica rehabilitated the old comic dwarves, taking them to another level, and I can only say I'm dying to read stories about them). I recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who likes shorter stories (not so short, circa 200 pages, but no “epic” proportions, I think), but who don't miss out on characterization and plot development. I’m happy to know book 5 is coming soon in November, that way it won't be long before I dive back into the world created by Jessica. And, Jessica, please, tell us soon Malak and Luna’s story. And, who knows, it wouldn't be asking too much for a Goblin hero in some tale? It will be fabulous!
I received an arc by Book Sprout and the author for an honest review.

[Lyn15 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hmmm it was good the first 80% of the book. Then the love interest tried to get manipulative… and the sex scenes were giving animalistic vibes to me #nothanks. The ending felt short, should have been fleshed out more

[Rose | Adventurous Bookworm · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to admit that I was not expecting the villain to be who it was.

3 Stars

Content: a couple of scenes to skip between a married couple, not-detailed war violence

[yarniabook · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5
It was good and sweet. However, it did drag in certain places.

[Goddess of Chaos · Rating 4 out of 5]

"We already share a common goal—peace."

Caelen and Lyana's story is so much more than I was expecting or hoping for. This book is what some authors would have parsed into a series of four or five novellas, but here we have one epic book as Caelen arrives, unexpectedly, asking for Lyana's hand in marriage at a ball where her father was expecting her to seriously consider all of the eligible bachelors.

If Lyana were not a Princess, and heir to the crown, she might be able to marry for love -- but she must consider what each bachelor can offer not just her but her kingdom and her people.

This adult fairytale retelling, in a world with dwarves, fae, dragons and elves, is a fantastic done in one Kindle Unlimited book. My only regret is that I went in to this story with Snow White on the brain, and found myself looking for, and watching for, classic elements of Snow White. This just might be an even better read if you set aside such thoughts.

Having not read previous books in this Universe, this is a so!I'd stand alone book, that left me curious about the other stories.

[Mary Burrows · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay until 85% lost interest

[Romance All the Way · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-read the book and I was in the right mindset this time to finish the book and LOVE IT!!

[Mackenzie Janssen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica Grayson continues to enchant with ‘Bound to the Elf Prince’, a unique and captivating retelling of ‘Snow White’. This novel brings a fresh twist to the classic fairy tale, weaving in rich fantasy elements, a slow-burn romance, and an epic journey filled with magic and danger. With compelling characters, breathtaking world-building, and an irresistible love story, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy romance.

Plot: ★★★★★
This story takes ‘Snow White’ and transforms it into something entirely its own. The plot is full of political intrigue, magical dangers, and an undeniable romantic tension that keeps the pages turning. The stakes are high, and the story is layered with unexpected twists that make it impossible to put down.

Character: ★★★★★
Lyana is a phenomenal heroine. She’s not only strong-willed and resilient but also deeply compassionate, making her an easy character to root for. She refuses to be a pawn in anyone’s game and fights for her own destiny. Caelen is the ultimate swoon-worthy Elf Prince - honourable, protective, and deeply devoted to Lyana. He struggles between his duty and his heart, making his internal conflict all the more compelling. Their slow-burn romance is beautifully written, filled with tension and longing.

Setting: ★★★★★
The world-building in this book is absolutely stunning. Every kingdom is lush, magical, and brimming with intricate details that make it feel truly alive. The contrast between Lyana’s kingdom, the Dwarf kingdom, and the Elf kingdom adds an extra layer of richness to the setting, immersing the reader in a land filled with wonder and danger.

Engagement: ★★★★★
From the very first chapter, ‘Bound to the Elf Prince’ hooks you in. The slow-burn romance, the high-stakes conflicts, and the constant tension between duty and desire make for a gripping read. The chemistry between Lyana and Caelen is palpable, making every interaction between them utterly compelling.

Readability: ★★★★★
Grayson’s writing is beautifully fluid, making this book an easy yet immersive read. The pacing is excellent, with just the right balance of action, romance, and world-building. The dialogue feels natural, and the emotions leap off the page, pulling the reader deeper into the story.

Enjoyment: ★★★★★
I’ve never been a huge fan of ‘Snow White’, but this book completely won me over. The unique twist, the deeply engaging romance, and the richly developed world made for an unforgettable reading experience. I truly loved every moment of it!

‘Bound to the Elf Prince’ is a stunningly crafted retelling that elevates ‘Snow White’ into a breathtaking fantasy romance. With its fierce heroine, swoon-worthy hero, and a world bursting with magic and intrigue, this book is an absolute delight. If you love fairy tale retellings with strong-willed heroines, epic love stories, and immersive world-building, this one is not to be missed.

[Olivia (to infinity & books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

four books into this series and so far this has been my favourite!! I think because it was longer then the previous 3 books, it was more fleshed out and we spent more time with the characters. It’s still not perfect, it’s not out of this world in retelling perspective, BUT it was still an enjoyable time and I have enjoyed this series for what it is. It’s simple but effective and just all round nice books to read in my free time ✨.

I’ve always loved Snow White so I was intrigued with where this retelling would go. And I was actually left feeling very satisfied, I liked how the elements such as the magic mirror, the apple and the dwarves featured into the story. Specially the apple, because ofc in the original it’s a symbol of poison, whereas in this retelling it was a symbol of hope and life to the elves. I liked how that was done and how it was used at the end of the story. 🍎✨

I liked the romance between Lyana and Caelen, it was sweet and it got steamy between them and I always love the devotion our male leads have for our heroines, so that was cute. I was also happy to see past characters show up, it’s a feature of the series, so if you aren’t reading in order then it might be a tad confusing ¯\_(ツ)_/¯. But the author does a good job when reintroducing past characters, that’s why each book can be read as a stand-alone, I’ve chosen to read them in order personally.

All in all I had a good time with this one, it is my new fave of the series. The retelling was good, characters were good and I thought it all flowed well and no time was wasted. For being 56 chapters it’s also not a long book. Some chapters were a page or a couple of pages long, so it’s a easy book to get through.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Lauren Erzsebet · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful retelling that includes Elves, Dragons, wolves, Goblins and Dwarves.
In order to join kingdoms and bring peace, Lyana agrees to marry Prince Caelan.
Choosing to help her own people over her own selfish needs, she sacrifices possible happiness.
This Elf was once her enemy but trust must grow as threats appear.
Lyana's life is saved by him more than once but neither could have known the real enemy is much closer than they realize

I loved this variation on a classic fairytale and while I recognized the original in this, there was so much that set it apart.
I adored their relationship starting with respect and escalating to more.
Lyana is a fragile human in the middle of a battle surrounded by creatures.
Her saviour and protector is painted in a bad light but they know each others hearts.
I absolutely loved the storyline, the relationships, the romance and the fight for the throne.
Caelan is so soft and gentle with his mate and this really moved me.
I felt this deep in my chest and think this is a sign that this story is talented.
The author takes the reader for an unbelievable ride through danger, realization and true love.
This brought a tear with its emotional writing and creative skill.
One of the best retellings I have come across and one which I think should be experienced by every lover of the fairytale world.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writing and editing of the ARC version of the manuscript was clean, with no typos that I found and a swoony, romantic authorial voice. The world building was vivid, with this medieval fantasy world coming to life. The characterization was good, with both hero and heroine being sympathetic individuals if not especially nuanced. The development of the romantic relationship was sweet and swoony, with a heat level of four chili peppers and some fun non-human anatomy. The plot was action packed and exciting, so the pacing flew by like a bullet train. There was a low to medium amount of angst that was a little irritating, but there were also sky high stakes, which I enjoyed.This novel used the Mating Bond trope and the Partner in Trouble trope. The world building, plot, and pacing were all four stars. The characterization and development of the romantic relationship were also four stars. I therefore gave this novel a combined rating of four stars. This novel ended on a Happy Ever After ending instead of a cliffhanger ending, so that was a major plus. I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy sweet, swoony romance and LOTR vibes in their fantasy romances. I look forward to reading the next book in this series when it releases. I will not buy myself a keeper copy of this novel.

I received a free copy of this book, and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brittany Grantham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This was so good. It’s better than the original Snow White. Lyana is a human and princess. On her birthday she has many options presented to her as options for her husband. At the last moment Prince Caelen the High Elf prince arrives and asks her to marry him. She agrees even though she is scared of him because it’s the best option for her kingdom. They are married right away but things go awry very quickly. Her castle is attacked by another Prince, her father is taken from her, her stepmother is not who she seems and she has no choice but to fight to keep her kingdom. Caelen stays by her side the entire way. Their marriage is quickly taken from a political marriage to a marriage of love. Just like Snow White there are dwarves, an apple and true loves kiss. It’s an amazing story, the characters are fantastic, it’s an HEA and it is so hard to put this book down. There are also other fairytales retold by this author that I’m now determined to find and read as well. I would give this book so many more stars if I could. This book is a must read for all paranormal romance readers and fairytale lovers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great story fraught with danger, murder, betrayal, marriage, passion and a happily ever after ending. It’s well written and the characters are fantastic.

Lyana is the princess and heir to her kingdom. Males across the land have gathered to try and win the princess’s hand in marriage. Before she chooses High Fae Prince Caelen enters and asks for a blood bond marriage that will join their kingdoms together. Lyana agrees but on the night they married another prince enters the castle and kill her father, the king. Caelen manages to escape with Lyana but she is hurt. They go to the dwarves who shelter them. Caelen and her dwarf friend Bran go back to the castle and rescue the pregnant queen. Caelen and Lyana travel to his kingdom for help but on the way they stay at a cottage, an old women enters but it’s a glamour, she’s really a goblin. She tells them Lyana will die, she also tells the truth about what happened at the castle. A betrayal Lyana never saw coming. Together with allies new and old they must take back the castle and stop the vision the goblin showed them from coming true.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Fay J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica Grayson has to be one of my absolute favourite authors for the retellings of fairy stories. She weaves her craft so well that you cannot escape without having read all the story in one go. Lyana is being forced to marry, well her father is not forcing her as such but the political benefit for her people is unmistakeable. She will do all she can for her people, include marry one of their most feared enemies a High Elf. Prince Caelen is looking to continue the work that his borther started by an alliance with the humans. They have a common enemy and would hope that a marriage between the kingdoms would bring benefit to them both. He has planned something of a loveless marriage until he sees his bride to be and from then on he is pretty much lost. Attempts are made on both their lives and they have to flee the palace. Will they make it together when everything seems destined to pull them apart. This can be read as a standalone but there are some of the characters from the other tales who appear and you really need to know their stories as well!

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun FairyTale Twist . . .

This story was well-written to present the reader with something new and different while still leaving bits of the original fairy tale to be delightfully recognized. The story begins with an unexpected marriage proposal. The Elves of Rivenyl are known enemies of the kingdom, yet the night before Princess Lyana’s 23rd birthday, Prince Caelen of Rivenyl arrives to propose a political marriage that might bring peace to their people. She is not sure about him, but does go through with the marriage. And with time, they begin to fall in love. Will they find their HEA despite the loveless start to their story?

This sounds simplistic, but the world-building is done very well. There is much activity going on in between, so the story line will capture the reader’s attention. And the characters do a fine job of convincing us why they deserve their place in the story – they’re wonderful!

[Francis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Needs more …

It’s a wonderful concept, but is lacking details and character depth. I started the series on this book, so I can’t speak for the series as a whole. This book specifically needs more in character development for overall depth within their personalities. I don’t feel that there was enough details explaining how and why the characters thought or felt about something. Additionally the lack of details in the plot and relationships between the sub characters and main characters left much to be desired. I also found that there were some pretty substantial plot holes and loose ends that were left wide open at the end of the story. Maybe that is what the author intended, but the. There should have been more of an explanation or prelude to another book in an epilogue at the end of the story. While I appreciate the concept I’m not sure I’ll be picking up another book in the series to read.

[Danee · Rating 5 out of 5]

So say what a surprise, this is the first book I read by this author, and I have to tell you it's a great story that sucks you right into the story,
It's kind of Snow White, This is the story about Lyana and caelen.
Lyana is a human and a princess and Caelen is a high Elf prince.

When she is presented with an option for her future husband on her birthday . is that Caelen the Elf Prince who then asks her to marry him. While reading you will find out that not everyone is they say they are.
What was once a political marriage soon turned into more.


The characters and characters and the story itself are great, I'm not going to say much more just that this book by Mrs. Grayson is highly recommended!!! I will definitely be reading more of her books, she is a great author.

I received a Advance Review Copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nina Diab · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Jessica Grayson and Aria Winter's books always captivate me with their worlds and characters. This one is no different. Great world building. This story is inspired by Snow White, but it is completely unique and original. I loved the inclusion of paranormal beings in this story- elves, dwarves, werewolves, fae, etc. I loved the characters- both the main couple, as well as a number of supporting characters. Princess Lyana and Prince Caelen were great as a couple. There was tension and formality in the beginning as this was a political union for the sake of both their kingdoms, but as the story progressed amid danger and adventure, the kindness between them and the growing trust strengthened their bond and feelings for each other. Fantastic story. I loved every page and highly recommend it. 5 stars.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was better than any Snow-White retelling I’ve read before. Our heroine is strong and wise. She puts her kingdom before herself. I love these characters and am so draw into their world. The characters are well developed with compelling back stories, strong motivation and goals. They have bold personalities and make bold choices. They have captivating internal conflicts with multiple difficult decisions to make. The world building is detailed, imaginative and so well done that you're drawn into a fantastic world unlike any other. This story has an interesting story line full of suspense, danger, action, mystery, unexpected twists, passion and an ending that left me wanting to read the next book in the series. It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention. I can’t wait to read more of this series

[Judy Gittleson Hendrickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caelen and Lyana are heirs to their two different kingdoms. On her birthday, she is to choose her husband and Caelen is the last one to see. A union of their two kingdoms would mean peace, so being more for her people than herself, she agrees and they marry. Her father is killed that night and they are on the run with many groups trying to kill her and cause dissention in the area. Caelen shows he cares as he protects her and they fall hard for each other as they run. Loved the characters and the storyline keeps you hooked until the end. The locales are so visual and the characters are well planned with great backstories and intense feelings. Plenty of paranormal vibes with elves, dwarfs, etc. Loved the romance and how strong they are together. Great ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bound to the Elf Prince by Jessica Grayson is a romantic fantasy that weaves magic, duty, and unexpected love into a compelling tale. The story centers on Lyana, a brave human princess and Caelen, an enigmatic Elf prince. Forced into an alliance neither fully embraces, their bond deepens as they navigate political intrigue and ancient magic. Grayson masterfully builds a rich, immersive world filled with tension and heart. This book is perfect for fans of slow-burn fantasy romance with strong character development and rich world-building. Recommended for readers who enjoy romantasy and enemies-to-lovers tropes without graphic content. A delightful, enchanting read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gabriella Pena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grayson did a good job of keeping the Snow White character (Lyana) feminine as well as ensuring that she is a fighter for her kingdom in her own right. Nevertheless, she’s ready to accept help from those around her—especially her newly married elf husband (Caelen). It was also interesting to see how elements such as the mirror and the apple were utilized in this unique retelling.

Also, loved the continuous call and interactions backs to the main characters from the previous stories. For I can never get enough of Alana and Vernon (the main reason I was able to get into this series in the first place).

[Chey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lyanna had turned twenty-three and that means she must choose a husband. When Calean, the High Elf prince, shows up to request her hand as a way to broker peace, she takes it. But can they find a way to have a real marriage, and will her choice cost her the kingdom?

I cannot say enough how much I loved this book. The writing was incrediblely well done and the plot was riveting. We had an intense story of love, war, revenge and new beginnings and everything was intertwined effortlessly. The steam was great and the characters interactions felt natural.

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good solid, light romance read. A little angst with a strong willed FMC with a semi-brooding but mostly incredibly caring MMC. I love the enemies-to-lovers trope but sometimes in the beginning of the book it seems like the MMC takes things too far, it can step over the line into abusive territory and make it hard to forgive the MMC when he has a sudden personality flip but this MMC might be an old enemy, yet he's still as accommodating as possible and takes into consideration her feelings and thoughts.

[Allison Ripley-Duggan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it!

Snow White story telling like no other. I love this retelling. It has the Snow White story line, witch step mother, huntsman, the apple and even the glass coffin. Although the apple is positive in this version and the apple blossom plus true loves kiss breaks the curse. Add on Elves, a Dragon, and shifters, and it’s turned into a mind blowing story that like all fairy tales have a happy ending. Again story lines of past books and it’s characters play pitiful roles in the outcomes of the books following.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

longer than the rest

I’m so glad this one was longer. The story developed so well and kept me completely engaged.

An arranged marriage for an alliance turned to love as they realized they were soul mates.

I loved seeing all the previous couples reappear and the addition of new characters (especially the dwarves). The epic war at the end lead to great drama.

A m/f fairytale romantic fantasy. Delicious steam and great chemistry. Tons of fun mythical creatures and magic.

[Storm Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly the best written

Of all the series so far this one is the best written. The plot isn't laggy and the repetition of information is not as bad as the others. I think the authors read what the other wrote and realized it's been said. Now to come up with better conversations so they are not always repeating the same phrasing. Very cool twist to the snow white story. Enjoyed this one the most of the series so far