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The Fated Creations Trilogy #1
Bound & Barbed
A heinous arrangement. A hidden bond. A hallowed vow.
Evaline Manor was sure she'd lived the worst day of her life when she witnessed the death of her father, and narrowly avoided a brutal attack. Now, she's trapped in the kingdom ruled by her aunt and uncle, who are desperate to keep her docile and marry her off. She is determined to utilize her combat training to escape Kembertus and flee to one of the neighboring kingdoms.
Maddox Vicor doubted whether the Goddess of Fate would grant him a mate. Most Kova found theirs in their first hundred years. He'd long passed that mark. But on his first day in Kembertus, he catches Evaline pickpocketing his dagger. In one moment his world turns on its axis as he feels the bond snap into place, and Maddox knows that this woman with white hair and inhuman reflexes is his mate.
The illusion of freedom that Evaline holds dear is torn away on her new worst day, when her aunt proposes an arrangement that she would kill to escape. With time slipping through her fingers and danger closing in on all sides, she must do the one thing she fears most in order to save herself.
Evaline must trust a bloodthirsty immortal.
Bound & Barbed is Samantha R. Goode's debut novel and is book one of the Fated Creations series.
Evaline Manor was sure she'd lived the worst day of her life when she witnessed the death of her father, and narrowly avoided a brutal attack. Now, she's trapped in the kingdom ruled by her aunt and uncle, who are desperate to keep her docile and marry her off. She is determined to utilize her combat training to escape Kembertus and flee to one of the neighboring kingdoms.
Maddox Vicor doubted whether the Goddess of Fate would grant him a mate. Most Kova found theirs in their first hundred years. He'd long passed that mark. But on his first day in Kembertus, he catches Evaline pickpocketing his dagger. In one moment his world turns on its axis as he feels the bond snap into place, and Maddox knows that this woman with white hair and inhuman reflexes is his mate.
The illusion of freedom that Evaline holds dear is torn away on her new worst day, when her aunt proposes an arrangement that she would kill to escape. With time slipping through her fingers and danger closing in on all sides, she must do the one thing she fears most in order to save herself.
Evaline must trust a bloodthirsty immortal.
Bound & Barbed is Samantha R. Goode's debut novel and is book one of the Fated Creations series.
464 pages, Paperback
First published November 22, 2022
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December 16, 2024
╭ ✦ •
│
│ ⊹ 𝟻 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚜, 𝚏𝚞𝚕𝚕 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚘𝚗 𝚖𝚢 𝚋𝚕𝚘𝚐! ⊹
│
╰ ✦ •
Bound & Barbed, is the first book in The Fated Creations Trilogy, an enthralling debut, with a blend of fantasy and suspense that will keep you perched on the edge of your seat. Samantha R. Goode masterfully conjures a realm that puts a unique spin on vampires and fated mates with a slow-burn romance. It was nothing short of perfect.
This starts off with our main character, Evaline, she's a pickpocket, and on this night she targets the wrong person–Maddox, a Kova, a benevolent vampire. With reflexes beyond human, Maddox proves a formidable adversary, and to her surprise, he senses her presence the moment she approaches. It turns out that Eva is the one Maddox has yearned for across the expanse of his existence. Instead of facing dire consequences for her theft, Eva discovers a side of Maddox that defies her expectations. Eva's world is turned upside down as her aunt and uncle's patience wears thin, subjecting her to the same grim expectations placed on all women in Kembertus; an arranged marriage.
Evaline won my heart from the very first chapter. A determined spirit, she encapsulates all that is empowering. Evaline is such a strong character, having braved countless trials. Her attributes include intelligence, resilience, compassion, wit, and an overall badass demeanor. She has a lot of past trauma, a factor that has rendered her cautious, guarded, and at times distant. She's erected barriers around her heart to survive, safeguarding it from the world. She views herself as undeserving of love, a perspective rooted in her self-perceived "coldness," her traumatic past, and the darkness within her. Observing this representation unfold is truly beautiful. I'm eager to witness her ongoing evolution into an even more empowered force. On a side note, unabashedly fierce women who stand their ground are a personal favorite of mine.
Maddox, a gentle and tender-hearted individual with a penchant for violence, is a literal cinnamon roll of murderous intent – yes, you read that right. He has effortlessly won my affection and must be safeguarded at all costs. Maddox embodies the epitome of a romantic soul. His affinity for reading romance novels authored by women, his propensity to blush, and his playful flirtations with his mate – all paint a portrait of a man smitten. Maddox's pining throughout most of the book was a delight to witness. His interactions with Evaline showcased patience and consideration, underscoring his devotion.
So many things happen in this book as setup for all the amazing chaos book two has to offer (which I've already read and oh my god it was SO good, review soon!).
I absolutely loved everything about book one; it was perfect in every way.
If you like:
↪strong fmc
↪fated mates
↪found family
↪ Adult fantasy romance
↪vampire romance
↪slow burn
↪spicy
↪dual pov<
then you WILL LOVE THIS TRILOGY
Thank you, Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC<3
_________________________________
Bound & Barrbed | Review
Made & Marred | Review
Sewn & Scarred | TBR
Blog ಇ StoryGraph ಇ Instagram ಇ Twitter ಇ Facebook
│
│ ⊹ 𝟻 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚜, 𝚏𝚞𝚕𝚕 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚘𝚗 𝚖𝚢 𝚋𝚕𝚘𝚐! ⊹
│
╰ ✦ •
Bound & Barbed, is the first book in The Fated Creations Trilogy, an enthralling debut, with a blend of fantasy and suspense that will keep you perched on the edge of your seat. Samantha R. Goode masterfully conjures a realm that puts a unique spin on vampires and fated mates with a slow-burn romance. It was nothing short of perfect.
This starts off with our main character, Evaline, she's a pickpocket, and on this night she targets the wrong person–Maddox, a Kova, a benevolent vampire. With reflexes beyond human, Maddox proves a formidable adversary, and to her surprise, he senses her presence the moment she approaches. It turns out that Eva is the one Maddox has yearned for across the expanse of his existence. Instead of facing dire consequences for her theft, Eva discovers a side of Maddox that defies her expectations. Eva's world is turned upside down as her aunt and uncle's patience wears thin, subjecting her to the same grim expectations placed on all women in Kembertus; an arranged marriage.
Evaline won my heart from the very first chapter. A determined spirit, she encapsulates all that is empowering. Evaline is such a strong character, having braved countless trials. Her attributes include intelligence, resilience, compassion, wit, and an overall badass demeanor. She has a lot of past trauma, a factor that has rendered her cautious, guarded, and at times distant. She's erected barriers around her heart to survive, safeguarding it from the world. She views herself as undeserving of love, a perspective rooted in her self-perceived "coldness," her traumatic past, and the darkness within her. Observing this representation unfold is truly beautiful. I'm eager to witness her ongoing evolution into an even more empowered force. On a side note, unabashedly fierce women who stand their ground are a personal favorite of mine.
Maddox, a gentle and tender-hearted individual with a penchant for violence, is a literal cinnamon roll of murderous intent – yes, you read that right. He has effortlessly won my affection and must be safeguarded at all costs. Maddox embodies the epitome of a romantic soul. His affinity for reading romance novels authored by women, his propensity to blush, and his playful flirtations with his mate – all paint a portrait of a man smitten. Maddox's pining throughout most of the book was a delight to witness. His interactions with Evaline showcased patience and consideration, underscoring his devotion.
So many things happen in this book as setup for all the amazing chaos book two has to offer (which I've already read and oh my god it was SO good, review soon!).
I absolutely loved everything about book one; it was perfect in every way.
If you like:
↪strong fmc
↪fated mates
↪found family
↪ Adult fantasy romance
↪vampire romance
↪slow burn
↪spicy
↪dual pov<
then you WILL LOVE THIS TRILOGY
Thank you, Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC<3
_________________________________
Bound & Barrbed | Review
Made & Marred | Review
Sewn & Scarred | TBR
Blog ಇ StoryGraph ಇ Instagram ಇ Twitter ಇ Facebook
November 26, 2022
3 ✨
“𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑰 𝒅𝒐 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.” 𝘔𝘺 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘶𝘱. “𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒃𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒕. 𝑾𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒎𝒆. 𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑰’𝒎 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖,” 𝘐 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵. “𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕, 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒆𝒙𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆. 𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆.”
Evaline is a young human woman under the care of her aunt and uncle, the leaders of a misogynistic kingdom after both of her parents passed away. Her aunt is pushing her to get married, which is pushing her to want to run away. Maddox is a Kova, a benevolent vampire, on a mission for his kingdom. What she doesn’t know, is that they’re fated mates and he’d do anything to protect her—including getting her out of her kingdom.
I really enjoyed this! Maddox is a man obsessed, falling over his feet for Eva. And she is so bad ass. This a fabulous debut novel with rich world building, lore, history, romance, and suspense. This is more character driven and world buildy as opposed to plot driven but you really get to know and love the characters. Eva has so much pain throughout, but she lets that motivate her to become a bad bitch and there is nothing better.
I’m only rating this 3 stars because it was very inner-monologue-y, and again, there really wasn’t that much of a plot. They talk about what they’re going to do the whole time instead of actually doing it. The last 10% we actually get movement, and then it abruptly ends with a cliffy. I’m still invested to see where it’s going so I’ll probably pick up book 2. It’s giving chosen one vibes 👀
Read if you like
🩸 adult romantasy with rich world building
🩸vampires
🩸 political intrigue/politics
🩸 fated mates
🩸 a man obsessed
🩸 strong and murderous fmc
🩸 slow burn
🩸 touch her/him I’ll unalive you
Thank you so much to Samantha for a copy of your arc! This book is out now!!
“𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑰 𝒅𝒐 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.” 𝘔𝘺 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘶𝘱. “𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒃𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒕. 𝑾𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒎𝒆. 𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑰’𝒎 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖,” 𝘐 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵. “𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕, 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒆𝒙𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆. 𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆.”
Evaline is a young human woman under the care of her aunt and uncle, the leaders of a misogynistic kingdom after both of her parents passed away. Her aunt is pushing her to get married, which is pushing her to want to run away. Maddox is a Kova, a benevolent vampire, on a mission for his kingdom. What she doesn’t know, is that they’re fated mates and he’d do anything to protect her—including getting her out of her kingdom.
I really enjoyed this! Maddox is a man obsessed, falling over his feet for Eva. And she is so bad ass. This a fabulous debut novel with rich world building, lore, history, romance, and suspense. This is more character driven and world buildy as opposed to plot driven but you really get to know and love the characters. Eva has so much pain throughout, but she lets that motivate her to become a bad bitch and there is nothing better.
I’m only rating this 3 stars because it was very inner-monologue-y, and again, there really wasn’t that much of a plot. They talk about what they’re going to do the whole time instead of actually doing it. The last 10% we actually get movement, and then it abruptly ends with a cliffy. I’m still invested to see where it’s going so I’ll probably pick up book 2. It’s giving chosen one vibes 👀
Read if you like
🩸 adult romantasy with rich world building
🩸vampires
🩸 political intrigue/politics
🩸 fated mates
🩸 a man obsessed
🩸 strong and murderous fmc
🩸 slow burn
🩸 touch her/him I’ll unalive you
Thank you so much to Samantha for a copy of your arc! This book is out now!!
May 17, 2023
I read about 40 % of the book before I lost the nerve to continue after I really tried.
I don't really understand the mostly good reviews on this.
Here we have a FMC who tells us over and over again, that she learnt how to fight and defend herself but in the situation where she has to prove it, kinda shrieks and throws away her weapon in panic and desperation.
What's the game here?
Then we have her meeting her "fated mate" and she just treats him like shit and plays the I'm above everything, smarter, stronger, can do everything alone and everything, while doing and accomplishing nothing.
While ready to drop it with the 40 %, I'm still waiting for some real plot or action to happen.
Up until now we just have a female, hanging around a orphanage and baking pancakes.
That's not what I'm here for.
Also for my personal taste the naming of the characters is just uninspired and doesn't help at all in the anyway difficult try to connect with them.
Then there are the minor plot holes like for instance they travel on horse and foot, but then she gets an elaborated makeup. Or the kingdom is over and over described as misogyny, but wedding between women is allowed. Come on really? As a woman you aren't allowed to own a dagger or do karate, but you can marry another woman und live happily ever after?
This is getting too much for me, I'm out ✌️
I don't really understand the mostly good reviews on this.
Here we have a FMC who tells us over and over again, that she learnt how to fight and defend herself but in the situation where she has to prove it, kinda shrieks and throws away her weapon in panic and desperation.
What's the game here?
Then we have her meeting her "fated mate" and she just treats him like shit and plays the I'm above everything, smarter, stronger, can do everything alone and everything, while doing and accomplishing nothing.
While ready to drop it with the 40 %, I'm still waiting for some real plot or action to happen.
Up until now we just have a female, hanging around a orphanage and baking pancakes.
That's not what I'm here for.
Also for my personal taste the naming of the characters is just uninspired and doesn't help at all in the anyway difficult try to connect with them.
Then there are the minor plot holes like for instance they travel on horse and foot, but then she gets an elaborated makeup. Or the kingdom is over and over described as misogyny, but wedding between women is allowed. Come on really? As a woman you aren't allowed to own a dagger or do karate, but you can marry another woman und live happily ever after?
This is getting too much for me, I'm out ✌️
February 26, 2023
“How do you tell someone you've only just met that you would throw yourself into an inferno for them, so the task of buying them a pair of shoes was quite menial?”
Here are a few things you should know about this book:
• The writing is good. Repetitive sometimes and definitely not great, but still enjoyable.
• The characters are okay. Evaline and Maddox make a good pair and considering how they meet and the story plays out, there is no unnecessary drama. Wyott is also very sweet! I hope we get to see more of him in the next book.
• Worldbuilding in this book is nonexistent. A few cities and other kingdoms are mentioned, but that's it. The story starts and ends in Kembertus. Which is a disappointment since this is a very long book.
• If you're looking for an action-filled fantasy romance, this is definitely not your book. Basically, Bound & Barbed is 466 pages of Maddox pining over Evaline and Evaline denying their bond. A short fight here and there, some smut (not bad), and you're through the whole book.
Bound & Barbed has some flaws, but despite everything, I still enjoyed it.
*adding the next book to my tbr*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2023
Dissapointed
Spoiler alert. I liked the book, until I had made it about half way through. I realized that the main character was selfish and acted like a spoiled brat and was increasingly hard to like. She treated Maddox like he was expendable and was self absorbed constantly. Maddox simped for her and worshipped the ground she walked on. I held onto hope that it would get better but my moment of absolute frustration and disgust came when Maddox had Bassel pinned and ready to kill him and she lied to Maddox (again, she lied to him often) and said no please don't kill him he saved me. The whole book her entire reason for training, putting up with her horrible aunt and uncle, going through with a marriage to a rapist, was to kill Bassel. Which she could have done right then and there while Maddox held him for her. But no. She hurt Maddox by lying to him and actually marrying the guy so she could put herself in danger then kill him late on the wedding night. Make it make sense. It made no sense at all. The author tried to make it sound like she just needed to kill him herself to stop the nightmares. But that doesn't negate that she could have killed him that night when Maddox had him pinned after he tried to attack her for the second time. On top of that, she lied to Maddox, hurt him, gaslighted him, used him, refused to ever tell him anything personal unless he painstakingly dragged it out of by pleading and begging, and took full advantage of the fact that she knew he would do ANYTHING for her. Gag. He deserved so much better than her.
Spoiler alert. I liked the book, until I had made it about half way through. I realized that the main character was selfish and acted like a spoiled brat and was increasingly hard to like. She treated Maddox like he was expendable and was self absorbed constantly. Maddox simped for her and worshipped the ground she walked on. I held onto hope that it would get better but my moment of absolute frustration and disgust came when Maddox had Bassel pinned and ready to kill him and she lied to Maddox (again, she lied to him often) and said no please don't kill him he saved me. The whole book her entire reason for training, putting up with her horrible aunt and uncle, going through with a marriage to a rapist, was to kill Bassel. Which she could have done right then and there while Maddox held him for her. But no. She hurt Maddox by lying to him and actually marrying the guy so she could put herself in danger then kill him late on the wedding night. Make it make sense. It made no sense at all. The author tried to make it sound like she just needed to kill him herself to stop the nightmares. But that doesn't negate that she could have killed him that night when Maddox had him pinned after he tried to attack her for the second time. On top of that, she lied to Maddox, hurt him, gaslighted him, used him, refused to ever tell him anything personal unless he painstakingly dragged it out of by pleading and begging, and took full advantage of the fact that she knew he would do ANYTHING for her. Gag. He deserved so much better than her.
October 24, 2023
-1st off.... I *love* an unhinged, feral, sassy FMC. (a true Nesta girlie)
Evaline is a fighter, through & through. That is just what she does, what she's had to do. She fights tooth & nail at every single turn throughout this book. She is a RELENTLESS force.
Maddox is honestly a great MMC, but my love for Eva overshadows everything else I feel for this book. ♥♥
❈ Check this out if you like → HIGH FAE/FANTASY/ENEMIES TO LOVERS/FATED MATES/SPICY/DARK ROMANCE/AGE GAP/TOUCH HER & DIE/SLOW BURN/FOUND FAMILY/DUAL POV
1 thing I *crave* in my books is angst... tension... pining!!! 😩🤤
And these guys just deliver!!! I'm telling you all- the feral girl/sweet patient man combo is SUPERIOR. obsessed is an *understatement* lol
DID I MENTION THIS IS A DEBUT NOVEL???
❈ As always, please be sure to check trigger warnings to protect your peace. ♥
❈ I'm so excited to circle back & pick up this trilogy to see where it goes.
*adds 2nd book to TBR* ---> I found out book 2 is currently on NetGalley friends!!
Evaline is a fighter, through & through. That is just what she does, what she's had to do. She fights tooth & nail at every single turn throughout this book. She is a RELENTLESS force.
Maddox is honestly a great MMC, but my love for Eva overshadows everything else I feel for this book. ♥♥
❈ Check this out if you like → HIGH FAE/FANTASY/ENEMIES TO LOVERS/FATED MATES/SPICY/DARK ROMANCE/AGE GAP/TOUCH HER & DIE/SLOW BURN/FOUND FAMILY/DUAL POV
1 thing I *crave* in my books is angst... tension... pining!!! 😩🤤
And these guys just deliver!!! I'm telling you all- the feral girl/sweet patient man combo is SUPERIOR. obsessed is an *understatement* lol
DID I MENTION THIS IS A DEBUT NOVEL???
❈ As always, please be sure to check trigger warnings to protect your peace. ♥
❈ I'm so excited to circle back & pick up this trilogy to see where it goes.
*adds 2nd book to TBR* ---> I found out book 2 is currently on NetGalley friends!!
February 11, 2023
This should have stayed a wattpad story
November 8, 2022
This. Book. Is. Fantastic. I could not stop reading once I started. This is such an amazing start to the series and I am so excited for the next books. The characters are complex and interesting, the dialogue is *chef’s kiss* perfection. Evaline is such a realistic heroine and Maddox is a refreshing male lead. I was constantly smiling or gasping. Goode is absolutely an author to watch. I was captivated from the first line to the last. I definitely feel like if you loved Twilight and ACOTAR, this is the book for you!
I received this book as an ARC free of charge for my honest review but I will be purchasing it as well for my personal collection.
I received this book as an ARC free of charge for my honest review but I will be purchasing it as well for my personal collection.
July 8, 2023
This was okay for what it was, it’s definitely a romance book in a fantasy setting
There’s no real fantasy plot or world building it really just centres the romance and the FMC being in an arranged marriage while plotting to runaway with her mate.
Maddox was a swoon worthy MMC and I like the idea of fated mates it almost the bearable version of instalove for me.
This book does focus heavily on how disgusting men can be which I’m all for but it was a bit much at times.
I think if you go into this with the right expectations of it just being a fated mates vampire romance book, don’t expect a big fantasy plot line then you might enjoy it.
Unfortunately I went in blind and expected a true fantasy with a romantic sub plot but half way through I tapered my expectations and started to enjoy it for what it was.
There’s no real fantasy plot or world building it really just centres the romance and the FMC being in an arranged marriage while plotting to runaway with her mate.
Maddox was a swoon worthy MMC and I like the idea of fated mates it almost the bearable version of instalove for me.
This book does focus heavily on how disgusting men can be which I’m all for but it was a bit much at times.
I think if you go into this with the right expectations of it just being a fated mates vampire romance book, don’t expect a big fantasy plot line then you might enjoy it.
Unfortunately I went in blind and expected a true fantasy with a romantic sub plot but half way through I tapered my expectations and started to enjoy it for what it was.
December 30, 2023
3 ☆, listened as an audiobook.
I'm so frustrated right now.
This is a slowburn romance of fated mates. The actual plot starts in the middle of book 2 lol. We basically just follow the mmc pine over the girl and occasional glimpses of the real plot.
➤ fated mates
➤ vampires
➤ violent fmc
➤trauma from almost sexual abuse
➤ revenge woo
➤ down bad mmc
➤amazing side character WYOTT <3
Slow, sometimes too slow for me and i would have just left it if i wasnt deadly bored at work. The mate thing happens in the first 10% but nothing happens between them until 95% into the book. Talk about slow burn.
Fmc made me scream and scratch my eyeballs out sometimes. She was strong and has a mysterious past but god GOD WAS SHE STUPID sometimes and her thoughts made no sense to me??? If she just communicated this book would be 60% shorter.
Mmc tho,, now thats a man. We love seeing a man in love. He is swoonworthy. Gosh he was sweet and always just thought of her, did everything for her. He let her do her thing, like a puppy just followed her along.
The audio performance was a disappointment. I liked the voices but the male character had no life in him. It was very monotone the entire time.
Honestly i can't tell you what this book really is about, i don't know. The first book is about getting to know the characters and the world and revolves around her revenge plot, but thats like a side quest.
It ends in a gliffy, so i have to continue it. AND I WANNA KNOW WHAT THIS MYSTERY IS ABOUT
My bad for listening this during a nightshift. I feel like i dont remember much for this review lmfao. Oops.
I'm so frustrated right now.
This is a slowburn romance of fated mates. The actual plot starts in the middle of book 2 lol. We basically just follow the mmc pine over the girl and occasional glimpses of the real plot.
➤ fated mates
➤ vampires
➤ violent fmc
➤trauma from almost sexual abuse
➤ revenge woo
➤ down bad mmc
➤amazing side character WYOTT <3
Slow, sometimes too slow for me and i would have just left it if i wasnt deadly bored at work. The mate thing happens in the first 10% but nothing happens between them until 95% into the book. Talk about slow burn.
Fmc made me scream and scratch my eyeballs out sometimes. She was strong and has a mysterious past but god GOD WAS SHE STUPID sometimes and her thoughts made no sense to me??? If she just communicated this book would be 60% shorter.
Mmc tho,, now thats a man. We love seeing a man in love. He is swoonworthy. Gosh he was sweet and always just thought of her, did everything for her. He let her do her thing, like a puppy just followed her along.
The audio performance was a disappointment. I liked the voices but the male character had no life in him. It was very monotone the entire time.
Honestly i can't tell you what this book really is about, i don't know. The first book is about getting to know the characters and the world and revolves around her revenge plot, but thats like a side quest.
It ends in a gliffy, so i have to continue it. AND I WANNA KNOW WHAT THIS MYSTERY IS ABOUT
My bad for listening this during a nightshift. I feel like i dont remember much for this review lmfao. Oops.
January 31, 2023
THIS WAS A DEBUT?????
Wow. Okay. Let’s begin.
Evaline was immediately introduced as being a traumatized character, having witnessed her father sacrifice himself to save her, to then being almost sexually assaulted as she is fleeing, to being left in the care of her extremely misogynistic and overall horrible aunt and uncle in the town of Kembertus. The author really made you feel for her right from the very first page of this story on how awful things have gone for her, but how she refuses to give up. The only thing I will say about her is she is borderline a “not like other girls” kind of girl. Not fully, but I’m sure you get the point.
Maddox is what Edward Cullen aspires to be. He’s gorgeous, strong, a warrior, he strictly reads romance novels (he could broaden his horizon but who am I to judge), he’s witty and he’s sweet. He is introduced with his childhood best friend Wyott (also very witty and sweet) and is traveling to Kembertus because his father, the leader of their hometown Rominia (I just think of Romania at this point I mean come on), says he has been receiving information of shady things going on. I normally don’t go for insta love or fated mates, but I DO go for a MMC who is completely obsessed with the FMC from first glance and she just doesn’t really care and he then has to pine after her and win her over. Love to see it. I do hope in the future books he is given a bit more of a personality other then just “Evalines Mate”.
The plot isn’t really much to gush over because there isn’t much of one there other than the romance aspect. The history and the layout of their world and how it worked discussed a little bit throughout the book, not so much that it is overwhelming but also not enough to really hook you in on what is going on around the characters.
I did feel a bit bored a few times throughout the story because I felt like majority of the chapters were just Evaline being yelled at by her aunt, to secretly training with Maddox and Wyott, to being annoyed of the life her aunt and uncle are trying to force her into. I would have loved more action which you don’t see until the last 25-30% or so.
Overall, as a story, and a DEBUT ONE AT THAT, this book was very good. I loved the writing. I loved the romance. The plot needs a bit of work but nothing that can’t be explored further in the next books. But WHY DO I HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL OCTOBER ARE YOU TRYING TO KILL ME????
4/5. Love to see it.
Wow. Okay. Let’s begin.
Evaline was immediately introduced as being a traumatized character, having witnessed her father sacrifice himself to save her, to then being almost sexually assaulted as she is fleeing, to being left in the care of her extremely misogynistic and overall horrible aunt and uncle in the town of Kembertus. The author really made you feel for her right from the very first page of this story on how awful things have gone for her, but how she refuses to give up. The only thing I will say about her is she is borderline a “not like other girls” kind of girl. Not fully, but I’m sure you get the point.
Maddox is what Edward Cullen aspires to be. He’s gorgeous, strong, a warrior, he strictly reads romance novels (he could broaden his horizon but who am I to judge), he’s witty and he’s sweet. He is introduced with his childhood best friend Wyott (also very witty and sweet) and is traveling to Kembertus because his father, the leader of their hometown Rominia (I just think of Romania at this point I mean come on), says he has been receiving information of shady things going on. I normally don’t go for insta love or fated mates, but I DO go for a MMC who is completely obsessed with the FMC from first glance and she just doesn’t really care and he then has to pine after her and win her over. Love to see it. I do hope in the future books he is given a bit more of a personality other then just “Evalines Mate”.
The plot isn’t really much to gush over because there isn’t much of one there other than the romance aspect. The history and the layout of their world and how it worked discussed a little bit throughout the book, not so much that it is overwhelming but also not enough to really hook you in on what is going on around the characters.
I did feel a bit bored a few times throughout the story because I felt like majority of the chapters were just Evaline being yelled at by her aunt, to secretly training with Maddox and Wyott, to being annoyed of the life her aunt and uncle are trying to force her into. I would have loved more action which you don’t see until the last 25-30% or so.
Overall, as a story, and a DEBUT ONE AT THAT, this book was very good. I loved the writing. I loved the romance. The plot needs a bit of work but nothing that can’t be explored further in the next books. But WHY DO I HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL OCTOBER ARE YOU TRYING TO KILL ME????
4/5. Love to see it.
March 13, 2023
Ughhhhhhhhh. I’m so tired of the fake and overly feminist love interest. Like he only reads romance novels is already a lot. But then you wanna say he only reads romance novels that are written by women?
May 1, 2023
⭐️ 2/5
The book stressed me out in the second half, so I can only give it two stars because, in my opinion, the plot didn't make sense and unnecessary drama was created.
I was annoyed that Evaline felt like she had to lie to Maddox all the time, even though he was always loyal, honest, and helpful towards her. He taught her how to fight, supported her decisions, and saved her in some situations. At the moment when he could have killed Bassel, who had caused her trauma and whom she wanted to revenge herself on, she instead says that he saved her and that Maddox should not kill him. Where does that make sense? The worst part is that she doesn't clarify the lie shortly thereafter and instead leaves the misunderstanding, then comes up with more lies and I was just so annoyed. I don't understand why, from that point on, she didn't just tell Maddox about her plan to kill Bassel. She repeatedly said that she was afraid he wouldn't understand her "dark side" and would reject her because of it. Maddox killed 2-3 people in front of her because they hurt her. If he doesn't understand, who will?
What also annoyed me was that drama or misunderstandings were built up multiple times, and shortly thereafter, they were resolved. On the one hand, this is good, but it annoyed me because plot-wise, nothing happened, and I felt like the book was dragging on, and I was reading unnecessary pages. I'll give a few examples:
1. Evaline tells Maddox to wait for her at their meeting place and trust her because she will be late since she has something to take care of. She plans to kill Bassel on their wedding night, but Maddox doesn't know that because he thought she would run away before the wedding, and she knows that he thinks that. Maddox then sees her marrying Bassel and is understandably hurt. At some point, they talk to each other in a quiet moment, and she continues to lie to him. At that point, she could have told him about her plan instead of lying to him, especially since she planned to tell him about it after killing Bassel.
2. The moment at the end when she ran away to reflect on everything that happened the night before. She comes to some stupid conclusions, which are shortly thereafter (fortunately) clarified as she thinks about it more, and then she is suddenly kidnapped to create a cliffhanger for the second part.
Evaline really annoyed me in the book, and I also think she's childish. I find her mindset terrible, that she doesn't want to be saved (by a man) because she is or wants to be an independent woman who has everything under control, even though it doesn't seem to be the case. Instead of admitting that she needs or needed help, she later tells Maddox, after he saved her, that she didn't need a savior. I honestly felt sorry for Maddox that she became his mate, but otherwise, I can't say much about him. You could also read his perspective, which made up about 30-40% of the book. I'm not exaggerating when I say that his chapters were only about how much he was simping for Evaline. It was all about how much he missed her, how much he liked her, and how much he wanted to feel her. I find it somehow strange that it's said that a Kova needs blood to survive (every week), but he hasn't drunk anything for a month, and he doesn't seem to be feeling the effects. Especially since he apparently can only drink her blood and can't get any other. He just doesn't seem to think to ask her if he can drink her blood, even though he should be really hungry at this point and the two of them have confessed their love for each other.
Apart from the things I mentioned, the first half was actually okay. In my opinion, around 300 pages would have been enough for the book, instead of the 460 pages. I feel like I would be wasting my time (and maybe have already wasted it) if I continued reading the series, so I won't be reading the second part.
The book stressed me out in the second half, so I can only give it two stars because, in my opinion, the plot didn't make sense and unnecessary drama was created.
I was annoyed that Evaline felt like she had to lie to Maddox all the time, even though he was always loyal, honest, and helpful towards her. He taught her how to fight, supported her decisions, and saved her in some situations. At the moment when he could have killed Bassel, who had caused her trauma and whom she wanted to revenge herself on, she instead says that he saved her and that Maddox should not kill him. Where does that make sense? The worst part is that she doesn't clarify the lie shortly thereafter and instead leaves the misunderstanding, then comes up with more lies and I was just so annoyed. I don't understand why, from that point on, she didn't just tell Maddox about her plan to kill Bassel. She repeatedly said that she was afraid he wouldn't understand her "dark side" and would reject her because of it. Maddox killed 2-3 people in front of her because they hurt her. If he doesn't understand, who will?
What also annoyed me was that drama or misunderstandings were built up multiple times, and shortly thereafter, they were resolved. On the one hand, this is good, but it annoyed me because plot-wise, nothing happened, and I felt like the book was dragging on, and I was reading unnecessary pages. I'll give a few examples:
1. Evaline tells Maddox to wait for her at their meeting place and trust her because she will be late since she has something to take care of. She plans to kill Bassel on their wedding night, but Maddox doesn't know that because he thought she would run away before the wedding, and she knows that he thinks that. Maddox then sees her marrying Bassel and is understandably hurt. At some point, they talk to each other in a quiet moment, and she continues to lie to him. At that point, she could have told him about her plan instead of lying to him, especially since she planned to tell him about it after killing Bassel.
2. The moment at the end when she ran away to reflect on everything that happened the night before. She comes to some stupid conclusions, which are shortly thereafter (fortunately) clarified as she thinks about it more, and then she is suddenly kidnapped to create a cliffhanger for the second part.
Evaline really annoyed me in the book, and I also think she's childish. I find her mindset terrible, that she doesn't want to be saved (by a man) because she is or wants to be an independent woman who has everything under control, even though it doesn't seem to be the case. Instead of admitting that she needs or needed help, she later tells Maddox, after he saved her, that she didn't need a savior. I honestly felt sorry for Maddox that she became his mate, but otherwise, I can't say much about him. You could also read his perspective, which made up about 30-40% of the book. I'm not exaggerating when I say that his chapters were only about how much he was simping for Evaline. It was all about how much he missed her, how much he liked her, and how much he wanted to feel her. I find it somehow strange that it's said that a Kova needs blood to survive (every week), but he hasn't drunk anything for a month, and he doesn't seem to be feeling the effects. Especially since he apparently can only drink her blood and can't get any other. He just doesn't seem to think to ask her if he can drink her blood, even though he should be really hungry at this point and the two of them have confessed their love for each other.
Apart from the things I mentioned, the first half was actually okay. In my opinion, around 300 pages would have been enough for the book, instead of the 460 pages. I feel like I would be wasting my time (and maybe have already wasted it) if I continued reading the series, so I won't be reading the second part.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2023
I think I only finished this out of spite. And boredom. This book makes absolutely NO sense and is riddled with inconsistencies.
1–the setting is in a place where women are treated as less than men. Not allowed to do anything except marry men and have babies. But the best seamstress in the city is married to a woman? The FMC often uses words like “misogyny” and “patriarchy”. Which absolutely should not be in her vocabulary. The society isn’t advanced enough for such philosophy. They’re not using these words. Nonsense. Absolute nonsense.
2-100% of the tension in this book is created by lying and not telling each other the truth. To the point of absolute ridiculousness. Her fiancé could have been killed 7 chapters before, but she stops it from happening with zero explanation. She could’ve even killed him herself in that moment if that was thee hang up but NOOOOOOOO. So She kills her husband finally on their wedding night, runs away with the MMC… AND STILL WONT TELL THE MMC WHAT SHE DID. she’s covered in his blood but won’t just tell him? What? Why??? “You don’t want to know” LADY, he absolutely wants to know why you’re covered in blood. So dumb. Just stop. ✋
3-the FLC is a spoiled brat who is unrelatable and annoying. the MMC is a simp. He’s lived 150 years and still he has zero self respect. He is strapped with 50 daggers but also reads romance novels but only romance novels written by women?? Omg GAG. You know those TikToks “every MMC written by a woman” that are super dramatized? It’s him. TO A TEE. Not even remotely likeable. I would’ve had more respect for him if he would’ve snapped that dudes neck in the cemetery and just said too bad so sad princess let’s go. Now there’s a fun story. Nope. Nope. 👎 not the story we got.
TLDR: this author hates men but NOT in a way that creates a good story. Cringe.
1–the setting is in a place where women are treated as less than men. Not allowed to do anything except marry men and have babies. But the best seamstress in the city is married to a woman? The FMC often uses words like “misogyny” and “patriarchy”. Which absolutely should not be in her vocabulary. The society isn’t advanced enough for such philosophy. They’re not using these words. Nonsense. Absolute nonsense.
2-100% of the tension in this book is created by lying and not telling each other the truth. To the point of absolute ridiculousness. Her fiancé could have been killed 7 chapters before, but she stops it from happening with zero explanation. She could’ve even killed him herself in that moment if that was thee hang up but NOOOOOOOO. So She kills her husband finally on their wedding night, runs away with the MMC… AND STILL WONT TELL THE MMC WHAT SHE DID. she’s covered in his blood but won’t just tell him? What? Why??? “You don’t want to know” LADY, he absolutely wants to know why you’re covered in blood. So dumb. Just stop. ✋
3-the FLC is a spoiled brat who is unrelatable and annoying. the MMC is a simp. He’s lived 150 years and still he has zero self respect. He is strapped with 50 daggers but also reads romance novels but only romance novels written by women?? Omg GAG. You know those TikToks “every MMC written by a woman” that are super dramatized? It’s him. TO A TEE. Not even remotely likeable. I would’ve had more respect for him if he would’ve snapped that dudes neck in the cemetery and just said too bad so sad princess let’s go. Now there’s a fun story. Nope. Nope. 👎 not the story we got.
TLDR: this author hates men but NOT in a way that creates a good story. Cringe.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2022
I had the wonderful opportunity of receiving a ARC for Bound and Barbed and I was so excited because this was one of my most anticipated reads for November.
First, the tropes:
-Fated Mates
- Dark Secrets
- Strong MFC
- Slow Burn
-Masquerade Ball
- Dual POV
🌶-4.5
This book really took my by surprise. It took me forever to actually start reading, but I thoroughly had fun with this one. I will say it did take me until about 30% to actually get into the book, but once I did I was hooked.
✨I did listen to the Dark Academia | Distant Thunderstorms & Fireplace by Enigmatic for the entirety of this book, and thought it went very well with parts of this book.
⭐️The Pace is probably the biggest issue I have with this book. I felt a lot of the times there was an over explanation, or a lot of repetition, on certain things. Like, Evaline would go into an over explanation on something, the first thing I can think of is Death to her being described on two pages, and Maddox continuing to say he could not live without her ever POV that he had. Now, this is a SLOW burn romance so the tension does continue to build and I for sure thought them coming together how they did was worth it. Once thing I really enjoyed was the foreshadowing (at least I hope that is what it was because there was a lot on Maddox's part that I need to see) that would make me smile.
⭐️The Characters were a ton of fun. You have Evaline, the strong, traumatized female lead that is also BADASS. Then you have the cinnamon roll that would also kill an entire village for his mate, Maddox (we love Maddox here). Then you have the comedic best friend, Wyott, that I would want in my friend group. Each character, imo, was extremely well written and did not stray from their character traits. I did have on concern and that was Maddox was giving off cinnamon roll vibes and then was randomly getting darker, but I am hoping we do get to see more of his past in the next book.
⭐️The Plot was something I rather enjoyed. Though, at times I did feel like there was a lot going on and no resolution. There was a lot going on with Evaline in the beginning, a lot of information that I did nougat about and that was important. ✨This book does end on a major, and super surprising, cliff hanger that I absolutely loved so be cautious about that✨ I think it should also be mention that there is a warning about kidnapping and leading up to what would have been SA, but nothing happened.
⭐️ Overall, I had a really fun time reading this book. Maddox continued to make me smile and Wyott was a really good comedic barrier. I did do four stars thought because of the pace. I found myself skimming some of the text just to continue the story. I would definitely recommend this book and I will be continuing the story when the next book is released!!
Thank you for the opportunity to be an ARC and read your amazing story Samantha!
First, the tropes:
-Fated Mates
- Dark Secrets
- Strong MFC
- Slow Burn
-Masquerade Ball
- Dual POV
🌶-4.5
This book really took my by surprise. It took me forever to actually start reading, but I thoroughly had fun with this one. I will say it did take me until about 30% to actually get into the book, but once I did I was hooked.
✨I did listen to the Dark Academia | Distant Thunderstorms & Fireplace by Enigmatic for the entirety of this book, and thought it went very well with parts of this book.
⭐️The Pace is probably the biggest issue I have with this book. I felt a lot of the times there was an over explanation, or a lot of repetition, on certain things. Like, Evaline would go into an over explanation on something, the first thing I can think of is Death to her being described on two pages, and Maddox continuing to say he could not live without her ever POV that he had. Now, this is a SLOW burn romance so the tension does continue to build and I for sure thought them coming together how they did was worth it. Once thing I really enjoyed was the foreshadowing (at least I hope that is what it was because there was a lot on Maddox's part that I need to see) that would make me smile.
⭐️The Characters were a ton of fun. You have Evaline, the strong, traumatized female lead that is also BADASS. Then you have the cinnamon roll that would also kill an entire village for his mate, Maddox (we love Maddox here). Then you have the comedic best friend, Wyott, that I would want in my friend group. Each character, imo, was extremely well written and did not stray from their character traits. I did have on concern and that was Maddox was giving off cinnamon roll vibes and then was randomly getting darker, but I am hoping we do get to see more of his past in the next book.
⭐️The Plot was something I rather enjoyed. Though, at times I did feel like there was a lot going on and no resolution. There was a lot going on with Evaline in the beginning, a lot of information that I did nougat about and that was important. ✨This book does end on a major, and super surprising, cliff hanger that I absolutely loved so be cautious about that✨ I think it should also be mention that there is a warning about kidnapping and leading up to what would have been SA, but nothing happened.
⭐️ Overall, I had a really fun time reading this book. Maddox continued to make me smile and Wyott was a really good comedic barrier. I did do four stars thought because of the pace. I found myself skimming some of the text just to continue the story. I would definitely recommend this book and I will be continuing the story when the next book is released!!
Thank you for the opportunity to be an ARC and read your amazing story Samantha!
March 21, 2023
3,5, trochu Avatar aang vibes a klišé asf
June 7, 2023
Bound & Barbed
Plot: 1
Writing: 1
World building: 1
Characters: 1
Themes: 1
5/5
Spice: 3.5/5
What you can expect:
- Fated Mates
- Vampires
- Masked Ball
- Arranged Marriage (not the MCs)
- He trains her
- Dual POV and dual narrated
- Witty Banter
- Slower burn
- Who did this to you?
- Nightmare trope (my favoritee)
Whoa, even I'm surprised this is a 5 star read for me. This was the most pleasant surprise. I have 332 highlights from this book. 332!! This is one of my new favorite Romantasies for the year. It's better than What Lurks beyond the veil, flames of chaos, etc.
This gives FBAA vibes in all the good ways (MMC, his best friend, and the FMC, the trio) and Twilight vibes, like the Cullens killing stray vampires or the volturi by beheading. We also have two types of vampires, the good ones (Kova) and the bad ones (Vasi).
Ok, look, I gave this 5 stars but it's not a literary masterpiece. For each of the five things I look for in a book, I enjoyed all of them. The plot was interesting, there's some mystery, political intrigue, and it's very action-packed. I never felt like the story was dragging so the pacing was good. I will always love paranormal creatures and cool magical abilities. I felt fully immersed in the world without being bogged down by heavy world building. I was also fully invested in the characters and their relationships. the angst and tension had me squealing. I also liked the representation of PTSD, depression/anxiety.
The audiobook was really good! Dreamscape media usually does a good job so I'm not surprised, but this definitely added to my enjoyment of the story. It's dual narrated by Auri Alden and Tor Thom. I'd highly recommend consuming this story via audiobook if you're able to! I'm definitely also getting a hardcopy for my bookshelf!
This was such a strong start. I can't wait to continue the series. I'm SO GLAD I got approved for the Advanced Listener Copy. Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media, this one was solid and this is my honest review.
Plot: 1
Writing: 1
World building: 1
Characters: 1
Themes: 1
5/5
Spice: 3.5/5
What you can expect:
- Fated Mates
- Vampires
- Masked Ball
- Arranged Marriage (not the MCs)
- He trains her
- Dual POV and dual narrated
- Witty Banter
- Slower burn
- Who did this to you?
- Nightmare trope (my favoritee)
Whoa, even I'm surprised this is a 5 star read for me. This was the most pleasant surprise. I have 332 highlights from this book. 332!! This is one of my new favorite Romantasies for the year. It's better than What Lurks beyond the veil, flames of chaos, etc.
This gives FBAA vibes in all the good ways (MMC, his best friend, and the FMC, the trio) and Twilight vibes, like the Cullens killing stray vampires or the volturi by beheading. We also have two types of vampires, the good ones (Kova) and the bad ones (Vasi).
Ok, look, I gave this 5 stars but it's not a literary masterpiece. For each of the five things I look for in a book, I enjoyed all of them. The plot was interesting, there's some mystery, political intrigue, and it's very action-packed. I never felt like the story was dragging so the pacing was good. I will always love paranormal creatures and cool magical abilities. I felt fully immersed in the world without being bogged down by heavy world building. I was also fully invested in the characters and their relationships. the angst and tension had me squealing. I also liked the representation of PTSD, depression/anxiety.
The audiobook was really good! Dreamscape media usually does a good job so I'm not surprised, but this definitely added to my enjoyment of the story. It's dual narrated by Auri Alden and Tor Thom. I'd highly recommend consuming this story via audiobook if you're able to! I'm definitely also getting a hardcopy for my bookshelf!
This was such a strong start. I can't wait to continue the series. I'm SO GLAD I got approved for the Advanced Listener Copy. Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media, this one was solid and this is my honest review.
June 22, 2023
ARC audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the dual narration on this book for the two main characters! It really helps to set the scene when you get both the male and female narrators reading the story. I enjoyed most parts of this dystopian universe and it’s set up for more books in the series which I would love to read when they come out! The story is about a girl who is getting an arranged marriage at her Aunt and Uncles insistence. I really enjoyed this new world and can’t wait to continue the story!
I really enjoyed the dual narration on this book for the two main characters! It really helps to set the scene when you get both the male and female narrators reading the story. I enjoyed most parts of this dystopian universe and it’s set up for more books in the series which I would love to read when they come out! The story is about a girl who is getting an arranged marriage at her Aunt and Uncles insistence. I really enjoyed this new world and can’t wait to continue the story!
November 24, 2023
I would like to thank the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an review. The actual rating for this is more of a 4.5 .This was without a doubt a spectacular debut by Samantha R. Goode.
This book ignited something in me that I can't even quite name. I honestly felt so many emotions and came to many realizations that its honestly ridiculous. This has vampires, fated mates, some spice, its a slow-burn romance, reverse grumpy/sunshine, LGBTQ rep, badass FMC, great character development, commentary on the injustices against women and so much more. I would also recommend people to read the trigger warnings because things can get pretty dark.
My one issue from time to time was the pacing because it felt a tad bit slow and some things were repetitive, but those are just minor things in the grand scheme of things. The story and the characters themselves really sold this home for me.
I loved Evaline from the very first chapter. The way she was introduced was just chef's kiss. We love a determined woman. Evaline is an incredibly strong character who has been through so much and I just want her to be happy. She is intelligent, resilient, loving, witty, and an overall badass. I will admit that I found myself getting frustrated with her, but then I would stop and critically think about why she does what she does and I automatically sympathize. Evaline is a character who has TRAUMA and in her case, her experiences caused her to be more cautious, closed off, and at times cold. In order to survive, she has placed her heart behind numerous walls and remains eternally guarded. She views herself as unworthy of receiving love as a result of her "colder" nature, her trauma, and dark thoughts. I know many Evalines in my life and to see this representation for them is honestly beautifully. I cannot wait to see how she will continue to grow and be a badass woman. As as a sidetone, I LOVE AN UNAPOLOGETIC MURDEROUS WOMAN.
Maddox is such a soft murderous cinnamon roll. Yea, I said what I said. Maddox is the new love of my life and he must be protected at all costs. This man is THE hopeless romantic. He reads romance books written by women, he blushes, is quite the flirt when it comes to his mate, and man does he pine for the majority of this book. I loved every scene with Maddox. He was so patient and considerate when it came to Evaline.
The slow-burn in this was done so well, the tension between these two was palpable. When the pressure finally exploded, it was immensely satisfying and I found myself saying finally. These emotions of relief and pure happiness can only really be accomplished in an exquisite slow burn.
The ending had me screaming into my pillow. I need Evaline and Maddox to be happy in the next book. They have been through so much and I need an instant serotonin boost from them at the very beginning of next book.
I hope we don't have to wait for book 2 for too long but no pressure to the author. I know whatever magic you got in store for us will be worth the wait.
This book ignited something in me that I can't even quite name. I honestly felt so many emotions and came to many realizations that its honestly ridiculous. This has vampires, fated mates, some spice, its a slow-burn romance, reverse grumpy/sunshine, LGBTQ rep, badass FMC, great character development, commentary on the injustices against women and so much more. I would also recommend people to read the trigger warnings because things can get pretty dark.
My one issue from time to time was the pacing because it felt a tad bit slow and some things were repetitive, but those are just minor things in the grand scheme of things. The story and the characters themselves really sold this home for me.
I loved Evaline from the very first chapter. The way she was introduced was just chef's kiss. We love a determined woman. Evaline is an incredibly strong character who has been through so much and I just want her to be happy. She is intelligent, resilient, loving, witty, and an overall badass. I will admit that I found myself getting frustrated with her, but then I would stop and critically think about why she does what she does and I automatically sympathize. Evaline is a character who has TRAUMA and in her case, her experiences caused her to be more cautious, closed off, and at times cold. In order to survive, she has placed her heart behind numerous walls and remains eternally guarded. She views herself as unworthy of receiving love as a result of her "colder" nature, her trauma, and dark thoughts. I know many Evalines in my life and to see this representation for them is honestly beautifully. I cannot wait to see how she will continue to grow and be a badass woman. As as a sidetone, I LOVE AN UNAPOLOGETIC MURDEROUS WOMAN.
Maddox is such a soft murderous cinnamon roll. Yea, I said what I said. Maddox is the new love of my life and he must be protected at all costs. This man is THE hopeless romantic. He reads romance books written by women, he blushes, is quite the flirt when it comes to his mate, and man does he pine for the majority of this book. I loved every scene with Maddox. He was so patient and considerate when it came to Evaline.
The slow-burn in this was done so well, the tension between these two was palpable. When the pressure finally exploded, it was immensely satisfying and I found myself saying finally. These emotions of relief and pure happiness can only really be accomplished in an exquisite slow burn.
The ending had me screaming into my pillow. I need Evaline and Maddox to be happy in the next book. They have been through so much and I need an instant serotonin boost from them at the very beginning of next book.
I hope we don't have to wait for book 2 for too long but no pressure to the author. I know whatever magic you got in store for us will be worth the wait.
June 14, 2023
This was a very happy surprise.
I requested this because the cover and name are very very cool. Aaaand may have seen someone say there are vampires.
Sounds right up my street!
It was even better than I hoped. There is two enemy factions of vampires, a love story, a hate story, and much much intrigue in this baddie. I am so exciting to see where she takes the rest of the series!
Check your triggers before reading, because while this is good, I can see some bits being too much?
Much love to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for my DRC.
I requested this because the cover and name are very very cool. Aaaand may have seen someone say there are vampires.
Sounds right up my street!
It was even better than I hoped. There is two enemy factions of vampires, a love story, a hate story, and much much intrigue in this baddie. I am so exciting to see where she takes the rest of the series!
Check your triggers before reading, because while this is good, I can see some bits being too much?
Much love to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for my DRC.
June 25, 2023
similar to FBAA
Interesting concept (similar to from
Blood and ash) but the chemistry between the fate mates felt a little forced and rushed. Not sure I will continue this series but seems like a promising writer so I’ll check out her other stuff.
Interesting concept (similar to from
Blood and ash) but the chemistry between the fate mates felt a little forced and rushed. Not sure I will continue this series but seems like a promising writer so I’ll check out her other stuff.
November 5, 2022
I received this as an ebook ARC for an honest review.
I really did love this book. It has all my favorite tropes in it.
Fated mates
Touch her and ☠️
Dual POV
Fantasy
Secrets
Hidden identities
The book starts off great with our FMC and her dad. They are traveling and get attacked. Evaline (FMC) ends up being raised by her aunt and uncle, they’re trying to marry her off in an arranged marriage.
You have your fated mates, Evaline meets her mate trying to pick pocket his dagger. He knows instantly she’s his mate, she doesn’t and has a hard time trusting him and her growing feelings for him.
The book begins to lag a little in the middle when Evaline is training to escape her aunt and uncle and their plans for her. But it does pick back up in the end of the book.
I never read a sneak peak into the next book. But this one I couldn’t help myself. I loved the way this book ended and I’m truly glad I got a chance to read this ARC. I loved the book, the storyline, the plot and the characters. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2.
I will be getting a physical copy of this book to add to my bookshelf!
I really did love this book. It has all my favorite tropes in it.
Fated mates
Touch her and ☠️
Dual POV
Fantasy
Secrets
Hidden identities
The book starts off great with our FMC and her dad. They are traveling and get attacked. Evaline (FMC) ends up being raised by her aunt and uncle, they’re trying to marry her off in an arranged marriage.
You have your fated mates, Evaline meets her mate trying to pick pocket his dagger. He knows instantly she’s his mate, she doesn’t and has a hard time trusting him and her growing feelings for him.
The book begins to lag a little in the middle when Evaline is training to escape her aunt and uncle and their plans for her. But it does pick back up in the end of the book.
I never read a sneak peak into the next book. But this one I couldn’t help myself. I loved the way this book ended and I’m truly glad I got a chance to read this ARC. I loved the book, the storyline, the plot and the characters. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2.
I will be getting a physical copy of this book to add to my bookshelf!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2022
Could have used more world building and plot. The end got interesting so I’ll give the second book a go.
June 27, 2023
A fantasy suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat as you listen to the outstanding dual narration that really brings the characters to life. Add in a bit of fated mates and you also have something to satisfy the romance crowd! A battle between right and wrong, a fight for women's rights and a fight for freedom are all tangled into this deftly written fantasy that will have you rooting for Evaline and her friends from the start! Evaline is a strong, stubborn woman who has a distinct sense of right and wrong, while her guardians and many around her obviously fall on the wrong side of the fight. A bit of a Cinderella story set in ancient times and in a land where paranormal creatures exist, but are not actually acknowledged. Add in the seriously hot love interest for Evaline and those who need the romance can swoon in delight! I seriously could not stop listening to this book and cannot wait for the next installment in the trilogy to come out!
This is a review of the audiobook.
This is a review of the audiobook.
June 14, 2023
Bound & Barbed by Samantha R. Goode
4.5/5 Stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
•••Spoiler free review below•••
It is no secret that I love a good vampire book. The first book The Fated Creations Trilogy takes the premise of vampires and gives them a new, exciting spin. Told in dual POV between our two main characters, you will be invested in the plot as much as you are invested in the romance. I highly recommend any NA paranormal lover give this series a try!
Read this book if you like:
- fated mates
- strong female leads willing to fight
- he falls first
- dual POV romance
- TEETH
Bound & Barbed is already released in print but will be newly released in audio format on June 20th. Book 2, Made & Marred, will be released October 31st. If this series is not already on your tbr, it should be!
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Special thanks to Dreamscape Media for sharing a free copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.
Review on Instagram
4.5/5 Stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
•••Spoiler free review below•••
It is no secret that I love a good vampire book. The first book The Fated Creations Trilogy takes the premise of vampires and gives them a new, exciting spin. Told in dual POV between our two main characters, you will be invested in the plot as much as you are invested in the romance. I highly recommend any NA paranormal lover give this series a try!
Read this book if you like:
- fated mates
- strong female leads willing to fight
- he falls first
- dual POV romance
- TEETH
Bound & Barbed is already released in print but will be newly released in audio format on June 20th. Book 2, Made & Marred, will be released October 31st. If this series is not already on your tbr, it should be!
.
.
.
Special thanks to Dreamscape Media for sharing a free copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.
Review on Instagram
June 14, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this on audio! Both narrators did an excellent job! Goode did a stellar job combining unique lore with trending tropes in a way that felt comfortable while still being original and I really enjoyed that. I’m always a fan of a story with a leading lady who says f the patriarchy with a love interest who stands right beside her shouting too and this delivered in all the best ways! Maddox is HOT and Eva is everything!
Check the TWs prior to reading as this story does discuss sensitive topics with on the page scenes that might be upsetting to certain audiences.
Check the TWs prior to reading as this story does discuss sensitive topics with on the page scenes that might be upsetting to certain audiences.
May 20, 2024
Okay I ate this up? Sort of served from blood & ash vibes so I was obviously into that. I love Eva & Maddox!!! Fated mates is always gonna do it for me. Also eating up this men slander in the books I’ve been reading recently
July 23, 2023
I’m so excited to read the next one!
Yes! I love the action and the story! I have not been able to put it down at all! Highly recommend?
Yes! I love the action and the story! I have not been able to put it down at all! Highly recommend?
October 11, 2023
4.5 ⭐️ left on such a cliffhanger I wasn’t expecting!!! Can’t wait to read the 2nd book this fall
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