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Legacies #1

Legacy Bound

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Mages bound to the Queen want free of their bindings, whilst those found unbound are put to death. Rebellion is in the air.

Isobel, an empath, hides in plain sight, dreading the day they will come for her. Older sister to William, she has spent her life protecting him while searching for a cure to the demonic corruption that will eventually consume him.

Looking for redemption, former soldier, William, has turned to the Light, renouncing his violent ways. If he doesn't, he risks losing the battle raging inside him and fears the consequences of that happening to those he loves.

Youngest grandson of the Queen, free spirited Prince Marcus cavorts throughout the empire, determined to enjoy his remaining moments, and with one year left, his time runs short. But when he meets Isobel, Marcus discovers there is more to life than indulging every whim and fancy.

Not knowing friend from foe, and with the repercussions of their actions closing in, Isobel, Marcus and William find themselves on the run whilst trying to stop an uprising that could shatter the empire.

Can they succeed and break free of the shackles of their past, or will they be forever bound to it?

339 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2023

2 people are currently reading
32 people want to read

About the author

Elizabeth Daly

2 books6 followers
Elizabeth Daly is an Irish writer who has had stories in her head since she was a toddler. Living in the west of Ireland, she has been scribbling on the back of copybooks all her life.
During her early teens, she fell in love with fantasy, history, and mythology. Her dream was to visit and write about all the places she read about. Even the fantastical ones.
As an adult, she became a travel bug, exploring new places and feeding her insatiable curiosity about the world around her. This has fuelled her imagination and provided thousands of ideas to draw from.
For her, writing is a way to share those emotions, experiences and concepts that are rarely talked about in real life, but many have known. All wrapped up in a good story, of course.
Legacy Bound is her debut novel.

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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Deb Howard.
27 reviews
January 19, 2023
Very few authors can bring an emotional response from the reader. Even fewer can have those emotions sneak up on you; have you unknowingly invested in character, then shocked at your own reaction to a figment of another human's imagination.
Elizabeth Daly is such an author.
On whole, Lagacy Bound is a good novel with a a solid story of forbidden magic, love, family, and self discovery. It is wonderful to read a story with the main characters being in their late 20's to early 30's. I am giving 4 stars out of 5 due to the main character Isobel.. Unlike Marcus and William, she came across flat. Not as deep and rich as her two co-characters.
1 do look forward to book two (Legacy Forged), that will be available January 9, 2024
Profile Image for KimMacs.
418 reviews17 followers
January 31, 2023
Legacy Bound is a new medieval themed fantasy series by Elizabeth Daly. It is a well written story centered about 3 main characters. We have Isobel, an empath hiding her magical abilities, William, her brother haunted by his demon blood, and Prince Marcus, whose life has a time limit vastly approaching. The chapters cycle through all 3 of their POVs and it makes for a very dynamic storyline.
Isobel and William have been running from their past and hiding in plain sight for years. Their relationship is strong and shows the love of a sibling relationship. Prince Marcus comes along with his "leave the world a better place attitude" and forces Isobel and William to take another look at the kind of life they have been living.

I really enjoyed the world building in this book. It was just the right amount of descriptions about the land, people, history, and politics without overwhelming the reader. I adored the 3 main characters and the bond that they formed in the short time they knew each other. I felt indifferent about several of the secondary characters, especially the ones towards the end of the book. I felt like there needed to be a little bit more of development to them especially given their roles in the last few chapters of the book. This book was gut-wrenching in so many ways! It has many twists and turns, some predictable, but plenty that weren't. There was so much character growth and I can't wait to see what happens for them next. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series and hope that all of my remaining questions will get answered.
Profile Image for Donna Shannon.
Author 3 books4 followers
March 5, 2023
‘Whatever good I may do, let me do it now, because I may not pass this way again.’

I was gifted an ARC of this by the author @elizabethdalyauthor - I'm so sorry for being so late finishing it! 🙈

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is an excellent debut from Elizabeth Daly, an Irish author (like myself - Celtic scribes unite! 🇮🇪) and first book of an independently published fantasy series.

I really enjoyed this novel: it has a depth of emotion and lore that is rarely seen in the work of seasoned authors, much less a debut. Well written and immensely enjoyable, the story of Isobel, William and Marcus unfolds expertly at Daly's hand, carrying the reader to a dramatic and satisfying conclusion. Very much looking forward to reading more of the author's work!

Legacy Bound is now available! Check out the author's Instagram above for details 🥰
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#bookstagram #bookstagrammer #fantasyseries #arc #arcreviewer #bookreviews #books #independantauthor #fivestarreviews #fantasy #legacybound #elizabethdaly
Profile Image for Lucille.
142 reviews2 followers
February 11, 2023
Book Sirens gave me the opportunity to read an ARC of “Legacy Bound”, a debut novel, as well as the first book in the Legacies series by Elizabeth Daly, in return for an honest review.

I am always eager to give new authors a chance and this author definitely lived up to my hopes. I was pleasantly surprised by Legacy Bound being such a solidly written novel, a great story of magic, love and believable characters. The protagonists are well-rounded; they are young people, a brother and sister and a prince. The chapters are written from each POV alternatively and show the character development they experience. Their mutual relationships and choices are well thought-out and realistic.

The story describes the adventures of Isobel, an empath, and her younger brother William, a former soldier battling the demon in his corrupted blood, who have been running from their past and hiding in plain sight for years. Their relationship is strong and shows the typical love of a sibling relationship. The third protagonist is Prince Marcus, youngest grandson of the Queen, fourth in line to the throne, who is determined to enjoy his free life to the fullest, ‘seizing life’ while happily gallivanting around the world, while his health still permits this. Little do they know what awaits them in the empire where magic is only permitted to a select few.

The world building is excellent, not overly descriptive, yet describing exactly enough to give you the feel of the world. The characters are growing into well-loved friends during the course of the story.

This first book is well worth its four stars! If I could have given 4.5 stars, I would have done so, 5 stars is just a bit too much. I am definitely looking forward to reading the second installment in this series, Legacy Forged.
3 reviews
January 31, 2023
I was given an ARC of this book and I’m giving this honest review freely.

Legacy Bound is a fast-paced, straightforward and somewhat predictable fantasy adventure, but there was plenty I found to enjoy here. It’s well written with a lot of humour and heart, and offered ample high-stakes conflict, twists and turns to keep me interested.

I did feel the fast pace came at the cost of in-depth world building. There is nothing about the setting to differentiate it from other quasi-medieval fantasy kingdoms, the magic system is straightforward and lacking in mystique, and the politics are simplistic. I felt the book would have benefited from a tad more fleshing out to bring the world to life, give the secondary characters more depth, and aid with reader immersion.

The real strength I found with Legacy Bound is in the main characters and their relationship with one another. On the surface the characters are standard fantasy stock, but the author has brought them to life with a level of care that made them engaging and relatable. The dynamic between the characters, along with their individual internal struggles, made for some heartfelt and satisfying character arcs.

The plot momentum in the second half slumps a bit, but the conclusion felt satisfying enough even while leaving things open for a sequel.

Overall I was impressed at the quality of writing here and found it to be a solidly entertaining read.

I look forward to reading more from Elizabeth Daly.
Profile Image for Anne.
298 reviews1 follower
February 4, 2023
Legacy bound is the first book in the legacies series by Elizabeth Daly. I really enjoyed reading this I did not want to put it down. I read this ebook in 2 and half days because of having things I needed to do but honestly If I could of found the time I would of read this in one go the story was fast paced the characters and relationships between them kept me engaged and wanting to no what would happen to them. I liked that the book was written from the pov of all 3 Main characters. the world building and magic system are simple but also felt just perfect for the story you got to know everything you needed to no to enjoy the book with out being bogged down in details and by not over doing the details in those areas it left the space to be able to focus and explore the relationships between the characters you do get a love story playing out but the main focus seemed to be more on finding and trusting your own strengths and the sibling relationship between Isobel and William which I really enjoyed. I Will definitely read more books by this author in the future and I will be keeping an eye out for the next book in the series although I wish i did not need to wait 11 month to read it lol.

I received an ARC copy of this book form Booksirens for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Profile Image for Amanda M.
100 reviews8 followers
February 1, 2023
I received this as an ARC and I am leaving this honest review freely.

I LOVED this book. Elizabeth Daly did not disappoint. I’ve read blurbs of books that sound interesting but the book lacks, this is not one of those books. This story was everything I thought it would be and more.

Elizabeth Daly told a story of family, forbidden magic, corrupted blood, love, and introspection. Marcus, a former guard turned monk. Isobel, a girl with forbidden magic. Marcus, the prince who was involved in magic. All three fight for what they believe in, no matter the cost. If Marcus or Isobel were caught, they were to be killed. William wanted nothing more than to make sure his sister was safe.

I loved the sibling bond between William and Isobel. Their dynamic and differing perspectives of the world added so much to the book. You could feel their heartbreaks, triumphs, hopes, dreams, love, and more. It’s like you were apart of their journey and there with them.
I also loved the Marcus chapters because you see him torn between the love and family, ultimately choosing love. The various background and perspectives of the characters lets you get to know them through themselves and how they come off to others. The dynamic of the trio is amazing. You see it build as the story progresses into an unbreakable bond.

I didn’t want this story to end and I am counting down the days until book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
300 reviews7 followers
January 5, 2023
I was given an ARC of this book and I’m giving this honest review freely. This book was simply incredible. I loved Isobel’s and William’s sibling bond. The sacrifices they made for each other truly warmed my heart. I loved William’s chapters and seeing what was on his mind. This book made me feel as if i was inside it, as if i could feel the characters emotions. I felt their happiness, i felt their love, their sorrows, their desperation, their heartbreak and their hopes like i was a part of the story and they were my own And i think those are the best kinds of books, the ones that make you feel like they are real, the ones that makes you get lost inside the pages and you wish you were a part of it. I truly loved the story of Legacy Bound and congratulate Elizabeth Daly for this amazing debut novel. I absolutely recommend this story and cannot wait to continue this series in book two, Legacy Forged.
Profile Image for Kat M.
5,249 reviews18 followers
January 12, 2023
I throughly enjoyed this Sword & Sorcery book, Elizabeth Daly does what I was hoping for with a great concept. The characters did what I was looking for, I had enjoyed the dynamic of Isobel, Marcus and William. It does a great job in what I hoped for and enjoyed going on this journey. I can't wait to read more in this universe as I enjoyed this.

"A stableboy glanced up from his post as they emerged. Wiping his palms on his trousers, he headed towards them, tugging his cap in greeting. Marcus leaned down and spoke. Money passed hands before the boy disappeared into the building. The Prince dismounted, and Isobel followed suit. Petting the horse, Marcus looked over at them. “We can stay here for the night. I’ve arranged for rooms for us. There are back stairs up to them, so we won’t draw much notice.”

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Kris10.
231 reviews49 followers
January 31, 2023
This was the first time I read this author and I'm hooked!! The world she's created and the characters she's built up are incredible!! The storyline was intriguing and original. The entire book was fast-paced, well-written and thrilling. I could not put it down until I reached the end!! With themes of mystery, suspense, forbidden magic, romance and family, it's the perfect book for many genres of readers. One of the things I loved most about this book was that it's made in different POV's, one for each main character. I loved this because I love to know what others are thinking and feeling as the storyline progresses. Imagine if you could know what Ron Weasley was thinking when the flying car was crashing or what Hermione was thinking when the troll was attacking her in the bathroom...with this book, you don't have to wonder what the other characters are thinking or feeling!! I can't wait to dive into the next installment of this amazing series!!
Profile Image for Alonna.
458 reviews18 followers
January 27, 2023
I am writing this review after just finishing the books, so my mix of emotions is making it hard to think. The story follows three POVs of the characters Marcus, William, and Isobel. There are secrets galore in the pages of this book and the trials these characters faced because of them, made my heart hurt for each of them. This was a great book and wonderfully writing. The world in this book is corrupt but beautiful at the same time, depending on whose eyes you view it through. The magic system described is great and also sour again depending on whose view you choose to follow. The plot was great and there was romance, but of course it was only a secondary matter, so not to overshadow the importance of finding the courage in oneself and the bonds of siblings. I highly recommend this book.
2 reviews
January 30, 2023
The more I read the more I wanted to read…. The characters are people that I know. The way they have been written involves you in their plight.

Good call on the ending, not sure I would have continued if the prince was still in Isabel's life, although, understanding that it is all about William and what Love can do for you.

The scenes, well written and not suffocated in too much detail. Keeping the surroundings available but not taking you away from the unfolding of the dilemma.

Elizabeth creates a world of magic, reality and survival. Sharing with the reader the emotional development of the character, their feelings and their process’ of overcoming their now.

Enjoying the marvels of their success and loss. While they realized this is just the beginning.

Legacy Forged, can’t wait to review and read this one to.
43 reviews
January 23, 2023
characters as the story progressed. but felt the timeframe for the main events and the outcome needed a little more extension and development to have a little more believability.

I felt like some of the latter main characters ended up having a significant role with no realistic lead up. A good story that with more character development would have improved it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Profile Image for Chrissy  Higgins.
15 reviews1 follower
February 1, 2023
I was given this book as an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

I thoroughly enjoyed the story and world that Elizabeth Daly created in Legacy Bound. The hints that she sprinkled throughout of what was to come really kept my interest. What I liked the most was the realistic character development of Marcus, William, and Isobel. Their relationships and the choices that they made were very believable, which can be difficult to do when forming sibling characters.
I am looking forward to Legacy Forged!
Profile Image for A.R. Grimes.
Author 2 books27 followers
July 14, 2024
This was an excellent tale...even without dragons

Seriously, the only thing that could improve this book would be the addition of dragons. I loved the characters and the world building and I am so glad the ending is only the beginning of a greater story. If you choose to pass over this book, then you're missing out on something special.
16.7k reviews158 followers
January 31, 2023
All mages are bound to the queen and they want their freedom and those hiding in plain site hope to keep their freedom. A great tale of their fight to be freed or stay safe from the queen. See how it will all go for them and if they get their freedom at long last
3 reviews1 follower
October 9, 2025
I love this book. Its message is powerful and uplifting. The characters have become my good friends and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. It's full of action, adventure, deep thinking, and transformation of the soul.
Profile Image for Huckleberry Rahr.
Author 16 books39 followers
June 28, 2023
fantastic read

I really enjoyed the development between the characters. The story is well written and well crafted. I look forward to future works by this author.
Profile Image for Jessica.
138 reviews
May 2, 2025
That ending!
No spoilers, but I felt a lot during this read. Oof. I loved the depth of it and the sibling relationship!
Lovely lovely.
54 reviews
October 15, 2025
A world of magic, magic reserved for the selected few...

Very interesting story with characters that really stand out, each one with their own traits.




Profile Image for Cat Bowser.
Author 6 books43 followers
January 31, 2023
I received a ARC copy of this book and I am leaving a review voluntarily.

Wow, this book was such a fun surprise! I was so happy to discover a healthy sibling relationship in it as those are rare in books. But the author used it so well.

I really enjoyed William and Isobel’s viewpoints. They’re each so different which meant I got a layered view of the world, always a good sign!

The author has a very authentic and natural voice. You discover and learn things as the plot progresses naturally which is always my favorite way to get into a new book!

I look forward to more adventures in this world!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews

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