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Fated #5
The Ties That Bind
Elena
He was the devil without the disguise.
He never pretended to be anything other than the wolf he was and I fell for it. Hard.
Now I’m tangled in a web of deceit not only of his making, but mine too.
A favour. Something owed.
A promise that would come back and bite me on the ass.
Anton
I don’t know when it happened. When it changed.
When that initial combination of mild infatuation and burning hatred somehow morphed into my obsession.
When did it spiral out of control?
Was it when she first let me hold her hand? Or when my lips graced the reverence of her skin? Was it when she was naive enough to let the wolf into her inner sanctum?
Hard to say, but now I’m there. I’m not letting go.
Can I keep the girl I should have let go? Or does fate have other things in store for us?
He was the devil without the disguise.
He never pretended to be anything other than the wolf he was and I fell for it. Hard.
Now I’m tangled in a web of deceit not only of his making, but mine too.
A favour. Something owed.
A promise that would come back and bite me on the ass.
Anton
I don’t know when it happened. When it changed.
When that initial combination of mild infatuation and burning hatred somehow morphed into my obsession.
When did it spiral out of control?
Was it when she first let me hold her hand? Or when my lips graced the reverence of her skin? Was it when she was naive enough to let the wolf into her inner sanctum?
Hard to say, but now I’m there. I’m not letting go.
Can I keep the girl I should have let go? Or does fate have other things in store for us?
249 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2022
88 people want to read
About the author
H.L. Packer
24 books239 followersHL Packer is a busy bee!
An avid reader from childhood she went from a reader to a reviewer and then from a reviewer to a blogger. The exciting world of Romance books opened her eyes to book boxes and all the amazing goodies that come with them and her search for a UK one led to the creation of Romance Readers Book Box UK.
Celebrating the first year of RRBB brought her to collating an anthology and beginning to create her own stories and world. Her first novella released in Dec 2020 and is hopefully the first of many to come.
An avid reader from childhood she went from a reader to a reviewer and then from a reviewer to a blogger. The exciting world of Romance books opened her eyes to book boxes and all the amazing goodies that come with them and her search for a UK one led to the creation of Romance Readers Book Box UK.
Celebrating the first year of RRBB brought her to collating an anthology and beginning to create her own stories and world. Her first novella released in Dec 2020 and is hopefully the first of many to come.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 23, 2022
I am obsessed with these characters.
I need more.
Five stars.
You need to just read this whole world for yourself. Absolutely awesome!
I need more.
Five stars.
You need to just read this whole world for yourself. Absolutely awesome!
January 28, 2022
Anton is set to become the head of La Familia, and has a duty to uphold. He needs a wife and wants Elena, but obligations force him to look elsewhere.
There is so much push and pull between Anton and Elena, it is absolutely infuriating at times. But the story is incredible and the writing keeps you coming back for more. The author has done a great job in giving us an addicting series, with fascinating characters.
I didn't know how to feel about Anton, because he just refused to treat Elena right. With the amount of tension between the pair, you just can't help reading until the end to see how everything plays out.
There is so much push and pull between Anton and Elena, it is absolutely infuriating at times. But the story is incredible and the writing keeps you coming back for more. The author has done a great job in giving us an addicting series, with fascinating characters.
I didn't know how to feel about Anton, because he just refused to treat Elena right. With the amount of tension between the pair, you just can't help reading until the end to see how everything plays out.
February 13, 2022
Loving Elena and Anton's story, the forbidden romance, the banter between characters, the betrayals running a muck through the La Famiglia.
Anton and Elena relationship is twisted, and it seems to be hurting one party in particular. What is wrong with these men and their obsessions with their callous words and deeds, one minute and totally opposite the next. Why Elena puts up with the push and pull astounds me, how can you call that love?
The story had tons of mystery and suspense and a cast of really great characters. Anton is a character you want to take out behind the shed. He acts like the devil
Overall, we really enjoyed this story, I will be rooting for Elena and Anton even though Anton doesn't deserve her but, beneath all the darkness in that man heart I believe he loves this woman and if he doesn't get with the program soon and claim his woman he may just lose her forever.
The mystery and suspense intensified yet still needs solving, looking forward to finding those answers next time around. Elena and Anton have some intense chemistry, twisted as it is it also nothing but, fire and flame, who can walk away from that?
Anton and Elena relationship is twisted, and it seems to be hurting one party in particular. What is wrong with these men and their obsessions with their callous words and deeds, one minute and totally opposite the next. Why Elena puts up with the push and pull astounds me, how can you call that love?
The story had tons of mystery and suspense and a cast of really great characters. Anton is a character you want to take out behind the shed. He acts like the devil
Overall, we really enjoyed this story, I will be rooting for Elena and Anton even though Anton doesn't deserve her but, beneath all the darkness in that man heart I believe he loves this woman and if he doesn't get with the program soon and claim his woman he may just lose her forever.
The mystery and suspense intensified yet still needs solving, looking forward to finding those answers next time around. Elena and Anton have some intense chemistry, twisted as it is it also nothing but, fire and flame, who can walk away from that?
January 4, 2022
I absolutely LOVED this book! The banter was absolutely EPIC! This booked sucked me in and was a roller coaster of emotional highs and lows. There were parts where I absolutely HATED Anton and his actions especially when it came to how he was toward Elana then I would swoon at his antic and kindness. There were also parts I wanted to reach in and shake Elana and scream to open her eyes and think then I wanted to celebrate with her or be her. That being said this is an EPIC read. I could feel everything the gut wrenching sadness the tears, the hurt, the LOVE, Every high. The laughter I couldn't hold iin and the moments I had to remind myself breathe . But this isn't just about Elena and Anton. . . it also shows sides of Tia with her fierce love and protection for her friends and loved ones. There is also an unexpected side of Carlos... We get to know Alessia and Luca a bit more. . . but there is also the mafia side . . .the rolls everyone plays, the lives they protect as well as dirty gritty ruthless behind the scenes side.
This isn't just about forbidden love its also betrayal the darkness of the life and the mystery of who is trying to hurt and betray the Familia. . . Don't forget the perks . .. the Suspense. . .
Just when I thought I had it figured out there would be a delicious twist or I was completely blindsided by and unexpected turn!! A definite MUST READ!! I couldn't put it down!!. Box of tissues, glass of wine and something to fan yourself with . . .
This isn't just about forbidden love its also betrayal the darkness of the life and the mystery of who is trying to hurt and betray the Familia. . . Don't forget the perks . .. the Suspense. . .
Just when I thought I had it figured out there would be a delicious twist or I was completely blindsided by and unexpected turn!! A definite MUST READ!! I couldn't put it down!!. Box of tissues, glass of wine and something to fan yourself with . . .
January 26, 2022
I'm not going to lie, I've been back & forth and forth & back all over the place about how to rate this book and write this review because of Anton. He just won't treat Elena right & I found myself all kinds of enraged because she deserves so much better. He can't stay away from her, and yet, he can't have her out in the open because of who he is & who she is despite the fact that Elena had nothing to do with what her father pulled. I will say they have so much heat generated while together that you'll need a fan while reading but it's the emotional turmoil that really messed with me. Elena's emotional well being since life is certainly not being kind to her lately. I found myself irritated when she would let him in every time he came, but kudos to her for knowing she couldn't rely on him when things hit the fan despite her feelings. I know I sound all over the place, and I am, but I can say without a doubt that I'm dying inside for more after that ending because I have hope (despite it being a dirty four letter word LOL). The story is also very addictive so I really couldn't put it down when all was said & done so let the forever wait begin for the next book! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
January 30, 2022
After that bomb drop at the end of the last book I didn’t know where I would find Anton and Elena. Well, Anton wants his cake and to eat it too. Ugh, he’s got Elena in the closet. The girl just can’t give up the mafia man and his sexy ways even if she deserves better. She is not her father! I really like Elena with her unwavering love for Anton. She has a few new issues to deal with while Anton is settling into his new role in the family. The family dealt with one betrayal in the last story and it looks like there’s anyone in play. That brings Carlos home and the crew looking for answers. The person it leads back to and puts in danger is a shocker. I love this group of young men with their camaraderie and loyalty ready to take over the leadership of the family. This story was a little slow for me with the under-the-covers romance between Anton and Elena. There were a few good twists to the story, one big one impacting Anton’s future and that WOW ending with Elena. The writing was captivating and kept me turning the pages with this group of fabulous characters. I love the women just as much as the men. I can’t wait for the conclusion to Anton and Elena’s story and the continuation of this exciting series. Loved it!
May 8, 2022
Another H.L Packer book that I have really enjoyed and not been able to put down! Even though I did want to hit Anton with my kindle a few times! 😂
From the last book this one does a time jump to the present. Anton is becoming head of the La Famiglia and needs a wife. He can't bring Elena out in the open because of the past. Nobody would agree with them together. But he also only wants Elena. All those years he's been with her in secret and its about to come out......
Mysteries, drama, angst, betrayal are all unfolding!!
Anton can be infuriating at times in this book as he is so cold towards Elena. But then you see another side to him, more towards the end and this is the Anton I want to see come out and treat Elena right.
Elena is going through a lot at the moment with her mum and Anton. I really like Elena and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that her and Anton's journey will come with a HEA. Especially after that cliffhanger at the end of the book! I'm really rooting for them both.
Off to read the next book!!!! 😍
From the last book this one does a time jump to the present. Anton is becoming head of the La Famiglia and needs a wife. He can't bring Elena out in the open because of the past. Nobody would agree with them together. But he also only wants Elena. All those years he's been with her in secret and its about to come out......
Mysteries, drama, angst, betrayal are all unfolding!!
Anton can be infuriating at times in this book as he is so cold towards Elena. But then you see another side to him, more towards the end and this is the Anton I want to see come out and treat Elena right.
Elena is going through a lot at the moment with her mum and Anton. I really like Elena and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that her and Anton's journey will come with a HEA. Especially after that cliffhanger at the end of the book! I'm really rooting for them both.
Off to read the next book!!!! 😍
January 27, 2022
Out-freakin-standing 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was just ahmazing. This is the 2nd book I've read by this arthur and wow did she nail this hard as this is the 5th book in the Fated series and Elena Bianchi and Anton Proetti's story gah these 2 are so destined to be together, but he knows he can't drag her into this life, but he might not have a choice.
But we shall see what happens next in Bk3, because someone is stirring the pot and Anton is rushing to try and find those that would have a hidden agenda against the La Famiglia before war breaks out, but I have a feeling it might be too late.
Once I started reading this I absolutely couldn't put it down the whole time I had to find out what was happening next, and believe me there was always something going on. I need the next book stat after that ending hmm just what is Carlos up to?
I would definitely recommend grabbing this it was sooo good.
This was just ahmazing. This is the 2nd book I've read by this arthur and wow did she nail this hard as this is the 5th book in the Fated series and Elena Bianchi and Anton Proetti's story gah these 2 are so destined to be together, but he knows he can't drag her into this life, but he might not have a choice.
But we shall see what happens next in Bk3, because someone is stirring the pot and Anton is rushing to try and find those that would have a hidden agenda against the La Famiglia before war breaks out, but I have a feeling it might be too late.
Once I started reading this I absolutely couldn't put it down the whole time I had to find out what was happening next, and believe me there was always something going on. I need the next book stat after that ending hmm just what is Carlos up to?
I would definitely recommend grabbing this it was sooo good.
February 5, 2022
Wow, just wow! This book was just amazing as the rest. What an amazing job on this well written book leaving me wanting more. Forbidden romance with such a push and pull that is off the charts! I’m in love with all the suspenseful mystery of this book. Truly a page turner jot wanting to put it down.
I do hate how much of an alpha hole Anton is but I still like him, and still wonder why Elana keeps putting up with it. She deserves so much better. But their fiery flame is intense. And the tension is still there between them.
The emotions felt during this book were such highs and lows. I kept coming back for more. Have the tissues ready! The sadness will wreck your heart though. But this book will also have you laughing so hard at times. Love love love Tia! Also loved how we learned more about the secondary characters in this book.
The twists were amazing and not expected. That cliffhanger?!? Can’t wait to see what happens next!
I do hate how much of an alpha hole Anton is but I still like him, and still wonder why Elana keeps putting up with it. She deserves so much better. But their fiery flame is intense. And the tension is still there between them.
The emotions felt during this book were such highs and lows. I kept coming back for more. Have the tissues ready! The sadness will wreck your heart though. But this book will also have you laughing so hard at times. Love love love Tia! Also loved how we learned more about the secondary characters in this book.
The twists were amazing and not expected. That cliffhanger?!? Can’t wait to see what happens next!
June 27, 2022
Things heat up in this installment of the of the Fated Series, as Anton finds himself stuck between a rock and a hard place. He can’t have the only girl he’s ever wanted and take over La Famiglia, so he’s in search of a wife, strictly for the image of the family. He copes because he doesn’t want this life for Elena anyway. He wants her to be happy and free.
The chemistry between them is undeniable, as they both are unable to stay away from each other. The push and pull happening between them is both addicting and frustrating. I also love the twists and turns this story is taking us on. There are so many secrets, promises and obstacles that my head is spinning and I cannot wait to see how it all unfolds.
We are left with another cliffhanger and damn was it a good one!! I will say this, I have a new-found love for Carlos LOL
Happy Reading!!
The chemistry between them is undeniable, as they both are unable to stay away from each other. The push and pull happening between them is both addicting and frustrating. I also love the twists and turns this story is taking us on. There are so many secrets, promises and obstacles that my head is spinning and I cannot wait to see how it all unfolds.
We are left with another cliffhanger and damn was it a good one!! I will say this, I have a new-found love for Carlos LOL
Happy Reading!!
March 24, 2022
I think I need to go back and read books 1-3....
I've read book 4, La Famiglia by now, but I haven't read books 1-3...and I'm wondering if it would help to clear up a little confusion.
I did very much enjoy this "duet" (will be trilogy) portion of this series.
La Famiglia was/is set in high school with Anton and Elena...and then The Ties That Bind jumps a few years into the future with some flashbacks and info that I think would be answered by reading the first 3 books.
Dark-ish, bully/enemies to lovers, mafia.
I do recommend reading...and I am interested in seeing how things wrap up for Anton and Elena
I've read book 4, La Famiglia by now, but I haven't read books 1-3...and I'm wondering if it would help to clear up a little confusion.
I did very much enjoy this "duet" (will be trilogy) portion of this series.
La Famiglia was/is set in high school with Anton and Elena...and then The Ties That Bind jumps a few years into the future with some flashbacks and info that I think would be answered by reading the first 3 books.
Dark-ish, bully/enemies to lovers, mafia.
I do recommend reading...and I am interested in seeing how things wrap up for Anton and Elena
January 2, 2022
I am absolutely obsessed with Anton , & Elena’s story .
Anton not only has an image to uphold , he also has the family to keep happy . With all of its rules , & traditions , life in a mafia family can be luxurious, happy , & easy , but it can also be dangerous, restricting, & heartbreaking. .
The sins of your fathers should never be yours to carry , but Elena has been tarred with the same brush .
I love the push & pull between Anton & Elena. The harsh , & hurtful words they throw at each other , & their epic making up scenes.
I could read this couple forever
Anton not only has an image to uphold , he also has the family to keep happy . With all of its rules , & traditions , life in a mafia family can be luxurious, happy , & easy , but it can also be dangerous, restricting, & heartbreaking. .
The sins of your fathers should never be yours to carry , but Elena has been tarred with the same brush .
I love the push & pull between Anton & Elena. The harsh , & hurtful words they throw at each other , & their epic making up scenes.
I could read this couple forever
January 27, 2022
Anton is becoming the head of La Familia with certain responsibilities to uphold including making his family happy with the traditions and a wife. He wants Elena but is forced to look elsewhere.
Elena hasn't had it easy. She has so much on her plate and now a dying mother.
The push pull between Anton and Elena is maddening with all the obstacles thrown in their path. Their chemistry is hot. Anton just needs to put his foot down and do what ever makes him happy.
It does end in a cliffy but so worth the wait! Can't wait for next installment The Bonds That Break #6!
Elena hasn't had it easy. She has so much on her plate and now a dying mother.
The push pull between Anton and Elena is maddening with all the obstacles thrown in their path. Their chemistry is hot. Anton just needs to put his foot down and do what ever makes him happy.
It does end in a cliffy but so worth the wait! Can't wait for next installment The Bonds That Break #6!
May 12, 2022
Book 2 of the series.
As confusing as the first part was I soon caught up with the events that were transpiring.
We seem to jump from time to time, finding out what happened after Antons 18th & the present day.
The risks that unravel as Carlos & Anton take their positions within La Famiglia.
As things get more stressful for Anton, Elena's life takes a turn for the worse, while she deals with something no child should ever have to deal with.
A dilemma that could be solved with 2 simple words.
As confusing as the first part was I soon caught up with the events that were transpiring.
We seem to jump from time to time, finding out what happened after Antons 18th & the present day.
The risks that unravel as Carlos & Anton take their positions within La Famiglia.
As things get more stressful for Anton, Elena's life takes a turn for the worse, while she deals with something no child should ever have to deal with.
A dilemma that could be solved with 2 simple words.
January 2, 2022
After that ending in La Famiglia I couldn’t wait to dive into book 2.
And again I was sucked straight back in.
With more time passed,
Anton and Elena are no further forward in Their happily ever after.
With Anton ready to take on his new role within the family , there are new obstacles standing in the way…
Pushing Elena back further into the shadows.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
And again I was sucked straight back in.
With more time passed,
Anton and Elena are no further forward in Their happily ever after.
With Anton ready to take on his new role within the family , there are new obstacles standing in the way…
Pushing Elena back further into the shadows.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 28, 2022
This book #6 was a little hard to read since I read it before the other 5 books, but even like that it was a great book to read! I did go and read book 5 as well, and it was great too. I recommend you to read them in order that way you will enjoy the story even more. I can't wait to read the next book, #7, this summer!
March 18, 2022
Forbidden romance. Intense chemistry. Hardcore push and pull. Lies. Deceit. Betrayal. The Ties That Bind have all of this and so much more. I am loving Anton & Elena’s story with all of its wicked and unexpected twists. An absolute must read and best read after La Famiglia.
August 28, 2022
Holy crap. Bloody love Anton and Elena journey! Once I started it I couldn’t put it down. Love everything about this book and had to get the next book cos I was not being left on a cliff hanger like that.
January 27, 2022
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May 7, 2022
I’m LOVING Anton and Elena. The chemistry is amazing, the angst and steam and hotness between them has me obsessed.
Can’t get enough of the family drama, the twists that keep coming have me on the edge of my seat!
Must read series x
Can’t get enough of the family drama, the twists that keep coming have me on the edge of my seat!
Must read series x
March 24, 2022
This is the fifth book in this incredible series and Anton and Elena’s journey continues. Anton finds himself unable to stay away from Elena, and he does not want to draw her into his life, while Elena who has had a tough life finds herself tarred with the same brush as her father, even though she is innocent. Fate has destined these two to be together, and the chemistry between them is undeniable. This is a well written story which is an emotionally charged tale, with witty banter, humor, suspense, twists, family, turmoil, deceit, heartbreak, tension, and love, which leads to an addictive and entertaining page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews