Spirit Bound (Vampire Academy, #5)

May 25, 2010 Lindsay rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

ok, so what is going to happen with the adrian/dimiti thing? Ugh, I miss Dimitri, but now Adrian is starting to grow on me .. and whyy didnt she show abe the note from tatiana? it woulda helped her out!

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Nov 23, 2010 Tatiana rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: I wouldn't

Shelves: 2010, ya, why-the-hype, tres-annoying, series-dropped-lost-steam, urban-fantasy

This book is crap and Rose is a shameless gold-digging two-timer.

Yes-yes, I am in a minority here, but it won't be the first time, nor the last. Spirit Bound is a bad book and I am contemplating to remove Richelle Mead from the list of the authors whose writing I care to follow. She can join my black list next to Beth Fantaskey and Maria V. Snyder. I was willing to give VA another chance after the disappointment Blood Promise was, but no more, this series is taking its path into oblivion along...more

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Nov 10, 2009 Terri Shirer rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: vampire

I really hope that Dimitri can be saved. I have a feeling Adrian and Dimitri are half brothers. I heard there will be a spin off of the series. Richelle mead couldn't say who the characters are because it would say who lives or dies and rose would have walk in parts. So obviously Rose lives and I hope Adrian will use spirit to save Dimitri. I think Adrian will end up with Mia or Victoria (given her and Dimitri have different fathers). Hopefully Dimitri will be restored to a Moroi so, he and Rose...more

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Oct 27, 2009 Sarah Jo. rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: those who have read the first 4 of VA

Shelves: vampire, love, 2010

Just when you though Rose Hathaway had seen it all...
This book came out.

Rosemarie Hathaway, after loosing her true love, Dimitri, to an unforgivalbe evil, went to earn his honor in Russia. In doing so she met her father, another pair of spirt bound people, and many others she will unlikly ever forget, but also failed to deliver Dimitri to salvation. Now it's Rose's turn to be the prey....but can they save Dimitri before death arives first?

It has finally happend Rose is a gaurdian.
She is strong...more

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Dec 07, 2011 Alycea rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites

ugh! i wish i hadnt read the first 4 books so fast! may 18th is soo far away!

any who, im a huge fan of this series and its been very interesting to read about people's thoughts as to what may happen in spirit bound; here are mine...

As far as Rose and Dimitri go... I love the dhampire Dimitri and Rose relationship dearly but sadly i dont think its gonna work out too well. I was hoping that Dimitri would be un-happy being strigoi or that somehow his love for Rose would transcend the evil and darkn...more ugh! i wish i hadnt read the first 4 books so fast! may 18th is soo far away!

any who, im a huge fan of this series and its been very interesting to read about people's thoughts as to what may happen in spirit bound; here are mine...

As far as Rose and Dimitri go... I love the dhampire Dimitri and Rose relationship dearly but sadly i dont think its gonna work out too well. I was hoping that Dimitri would be un-happy being strigoi or that somehow his love for Rose would transcend the evil and darkness that comes with being a strigoi but it didnt and because of that i dont think their relationship will ever be the same...
How ever part of me still has hope for them...
in more detail i think that 2 things can happen here. 1. Dimitri (most likely) wont kill Rose, but not because he doesnt want to...but i think that wanting to torture her more than actually wanting forever with her will be more the reason he wants to "awaken" her now, becuase lets face it- rose would rather die, and why would her what she wants?? because he loves her deep down?? maybe-but he seems to be more interested in his own person gain and holding power over people. anyway, he will be unsuccessful in turning her strigoi and she will "save" him by turning him back into a dhampir. however, i think he will most likely resent her for doing so because he loves being strigoi. OR he will be like everyone hopes and he and rose will live happily ever after..either way their relationship wont be the same..
2.he WILL turn Rose into Strigoi and 1 of 3 things could happen. she actually likes being strigoi (which i wouldnt be able to fathon that happening), she has to choose between herself and dimitri and she kills him and lissa and adrian etc turn her back to dhampir, or she finds away to "save" herself and dimitri...which goes back to what i think will happen in her first senerior.

as far as the other characters go...
adrian may or may not die or end up with Rose..idk
Chirstian and Lissa will get back together...
mia and eddie will get together..
jill, mia, or eddie may die either fighting strigoi (i dont want anyone to die) for some reason i think alberta may die as well..
rose will end up with dimitri, adrian, or single
victor and lissa will start the revolution against tatiana and then victor will turn on lissa and rose will either get him back into jail or kill him...

and a lot of other stuff that i forgot...lol

tell me what you think :) or if you agree with me.(less)

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Aug 01, 2010 Rachel (The Rest Is Still Unwritten) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: i-own, favorites

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. ***OMG, OMG, OMG! Ahhhhhh!!!!!!!****
*sigh*
Now that that’s out of the way, let’s move on....
That was incredible. Just incredible! I cannot believe all that went on in that book.
Firstly, Dimitri was saved! Yes, yes, yes! I can’t be happier about that, I swear. I actually shrieked when I read Lissa had actually managed to restore his soul. Let’s face it- it’s what every VA fan has wanted since the end of Shadow Kiss. And I’m no exception.
My heart breaks over the guilt he feels and I know he can’t...more ***OMG, OMG, OMG! Ahhhhhh!!!!!!!****
*sigh*
Now that that’s out of the way, let’s move on....
That was incredible. Just incredible! I cannot believe all that went on in that book.
Firstly, Dimitri was saved! Yes, yes, yes! I can’t be happier about that, I swear. I actually shrieked when I read Lissa had actually managed to restore his soul. Let’s face it- it’s what every VA fan has wanted since the end of Shadow Kiss. And I’m no exception.
My heart breaks over the guilt he feels and I know he can’t take back the things he’s done, but surely he can move on. And what about him not wanting to be with Rose? I understand how bad knowing he’d hurt the person he loves most would be, but there is NO WAY I believe he no longer loves her. That’s an outright lie! You only have to read how he looks at her and how he was willing to fight a bunch of guardians for her. He aint fooling anybody!
Oh, Rose. Dearest Rose..... WHAT ARE YOU DOING? She loves Dimka, that’s clear, but what about Adrian? I know her feelings are confused, especially knowing she does care about Adrian, but she is only going to make things harder on herself. And on Adrian if she does end up getting back with Dimitri. I believe Adrian does actually love her and his heart will break if they split.
That being said, I wouldn’t be true to myself or honest if I didn’t say that even though I have a soft spot for Adrian, I’ll be cheering for Rose and Dimitri all the way to the very end.
Lissa and Christian seemed to work things out, which was great to see. And many of the other awesome characters I love were back. Eddie, Abe, Mia, Rose’s Mum, Jill, even Sydney had a small cameo. It was soooo great to see them all again!

Now on to the shocks! How can they believe that Rose killed the Queen? It’s an exceptional twist in the story, but I do wonder who actually did kill her and why? Now that Rose is going to trial it’s gonna be up to Lissa and all her friends to save her and get her out of trouble.
And Lissa has a sibling! Can you believe it? That totally blew me away, and I never saw it coming. I can’t wait to find out how that impacts the storyline. Even though it’s a surprise, I think a younger sis or bro would be good for Lissa. It means she’s not as alone as she’s always been.

I CANNOT WAIT to find out what happens in the final book. I’m sad that Last Sacrifice will be the end of the VA series, but I’m looking forward to what I know will be a gripping, explosive, heart racing conclusion.
Now I just gotta wait until December. Seriously, it’s gonna kill me!!!

(less)

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Jan 24, 2012 Heather rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2010, ya, paranormal-romance

I did it. I know I said that I wouldn’t, but I read Spirit Bound in spite of my boycott. I have no excuse. I’m almost as big a hypocrite as Rose Hathaway. Almost. In my defense, I didn’t decide to read it until after I read every spoiler available via Amazon.com. Therefore, I knew every plot point within this book before I read it, and ironically, it was the very thing that compelled me to read it. Curse my morbid curiosity. Worse, I liked it! I may never forgive myself.
Before I say anything els...more I did it. I know I said that I wouldn’t, but I read Spirit Bound in spite of my boycott. I have no excuse. I’m almost as big a hypocrite as Rose Hathaway. Almost. In my defense, I didn’t decide to read it until after I read every spoiler available via Amazon.com. Therefore, I knew every plot point within this book before I read it, and ironically, it was the very thing that compelled me to read it. Curse my morbid curiosity. Worse, I liked it! I may never forgive myself.
Before I say anything else, I have to state this officially, for the review record…I HATE Rose. HATE her. I have resigned myself to the fact that we shall never, ever see any character growth from her, if anything, we can expect consistent digression, but still, this knowledge does not make me hate her any less. She is whinny, self involved, selfish, brash, manipulative, dishonest, and hypocritical. My favorite line to hate from her appears several times throughout this novel…”It was hard, but I pushed the guilt aside.” Hold the phone; I’m supposed to feel sorry for you because you are somehow able to overcome your guilt about destroying the lives of the people who love you while you get innocent people killed for your own selfish gains? Not likely. Even worse, I think I actually saw red while reading Rose's flippant, often condesending treatment of Adrian. Rose doesn’t deserve any of the people who love her, not Lissa, not Adrian, not Christian, Eddie, or the help or respect of any of the people that assist her on her journey. The only reason I root for her is because not rooting for her would be a betrayal to the characters I do love, namely Adrian, Lissa and Christian.

Any of those who know my thoughts on this series know I am team Adrian through and through. He appears morally ambiguous upon first glance, when in fact; I think he may have the strongest moral character of any of them. He may drink and smoke like a freight train. He may even be a bit of a sloth, but there isn’t anything he wouldn’t do for the people he loves, even to his own detriment. His willingness to help maybe self motivated, but he has never ever operated under false pretenses, has never lied and never manipulated those he claims to love. Because I love Adrian, I want him to have that which he desires most, Rose. And I was so glad that he has finally been given the opportunity to have her. However, that does not mean that I think he should end up with her. Though for Adrian’s sake I hoped for the pairing, I have always known, and know, that Rose and Dimitri will end up together, as they should. Rose doesn’t deserve Adrian on her best day. Let's face it, I don't even think she deserves Dimtri. But I am so glad that Mead gave Adrian a chance to shine. And this fact along with two others is the only reason I liked this book and broke my vow to not read Spirit Bound. I can turn my back on Rose, but I could never turn my back on Adrian.

Thankfully, Mead also decided to devote more page time not only to Adrian, but to Lissa and Christian as well. These characters are so full of win in this installment that they somehow allowed me to overlook my hatred for Rose. That is a tremendous testament to their awesomeness. I know many people resent Lissa, though I have never understood why, she has always proven her friendship and loyalty to Rose, if anything, I’ve always felt that Rose had something to prove, but once again, Lissa outshines Rose in every way and puts her to extreme shame.
*Spoilers Ahead*.
I was proud of Lissa for restoring Dimitri, not because I felt that she owed it to Rose, but because if showed Lissa’s immense, all consuming selflessness, as well as her development in the use of Spirit. Lissa is just awesome, in an angelic sort of way. And Christian, oh how I missed him in Blood Promise. Thankfully, he is back on par with his snide antics, shrewd observations, and endless love for Lissa, which is filled with that delicious tension that makes your stomach clench. I ate it up.

As for Dimitri, I have never really liked or disliked him, except in Blood Promise. I clearly disliked Strigoi Dimitri. He was such a forgone cliché as a Strigoi. Nevertheless, I am glad his humanity was restored and even better, he upped the angst ante with his rejection of Rose. Mead may be brilliant at destroying her characters (Seth from Georgia Kincaid series anyone?) as she has proven with Rose, but you can’t deny her ability to rip your heart out. I don’t even really care if Rose gets her happy ending, in fact, I hope she meets a tragic end in the last installment, but even I was in a state over Dimitri’s words in the church. Oh the angst! Rose and Dimitri belong together, even though it makes me kind of sick. I can't help but want it to happen, for Dimitri's sake.

So Mead has redeemed herself a bit in my eyes. I may despise Rose with a fiery passion, but she knocked one out of the park by allowing Adrian and Lissa to surpass the narrator and steal the show and for peppering this book with so much emotional turmoil, deceit, tension and steam, that I couldn’t help but read it and like it. Kudos.

P.S. If Mead turns Adrain into any more of a sacraficial lamb I will be truly devestated. Give the man a break for Christ's sake, he's been through enough already.
(less)

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May 30, 2010 Kat Kennedy rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: the-great-shelf-of-meh, kat-s-book-reviews

The good news is this: Spirit Bound is better than Blood Promises.

Now let's all take a deep, satisfying breath of relief for that.

But, there is bad news. The character of Rose, for me, takes a huge hit in this installment.

Spirit Bound is fairly well written. The pacing is pretty good in that you don't have an opportunity to get bored. There are three points in the book that I really feel SHOULD have received far more attention and detail than they should:

Rose's exam, Victor's rescue (What shall...more

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Sep 24, 2010 Janina rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: young-adult-fiction, on-my-shelf, annoyed-me, paranormal, beware-love-triangle, cliffhanger, ridiculously-bad, romance, series-lost-interest, given-away

Again, I found this book a bit too long-winded and I have to admit that I skimmed through quite a few pages. Especially the 'action' parts were a little bit boring. Some problems were solved in a rather easy way (the break-in into the guardians' headquarters, for example) and there wasn't one scene when I felt like the life of one of the 'important' characters was at stake.
The relationship-focused parts of the story made up for that a little bit, although Rose's behaviour around Adrian made me...more Again, I found this book a bit too long-winded and I have to admit that I skimmed through quite a few pages. Especially the 'action' parts were a little bit boring. Some problems were solved in a rather easy way (the break-in into the guardians' headquarters, for example) and there wasn't one scene when I felt like the life of one of the 'important' characters was at stake.
The relationship-focused parts of the story made up for that a little bit, although Rose's behaviour around Adrian made me very angry. She tells him she is ready to move on, but nevertheless thinks mostly of Dimitri when they are together. I found that extremely mean, but couldn't understand why Adrian let himself be used as her doormat at the same time. (view spoiler)

All in all, I have to say that I'm quite disappointed at how this series is developing. The last two books could have easily been shortened into one. I think I read only two thirds of this one without skimming, and I don't feel like I missed something important at all. Additionally, Mead's way of retelling what happened previously has begun to annoy me. I've never had problems with that in her Succubus series, but here it feels forced and disturbes the flow of her writing. Also, I always feel a little stupid as a reader when an author thinks she has to repeat everything for me. I know I'm forgetful, but not that much that I need every little fact shoved in my face again.

Nevertheless, I'm still curious how this all will end, so I will probably read the last installment.

Edit: After reading a few spoiler reviews on 'Last Sacrifice', I have decided not to read the last book after all. I just can't take Rose's behaviour anymore. Sad that this series went downhill after book three.(less)

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May 24, 2010 Arlene rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: vampires, paranormal, read-2010, urban-fantasy, autographed, ya-paranormal, cover-pda-fave, young-adult

Wow!!! Just wow!! I can now say with certainty that Vampire Academy has just become the classic example of why great books should not be allowed to become series. Spirit Bound IMHO has one of the most angsty demonstrations of how an author can seamlessly annihilate a beloved character to epic proportions.

Dimitri and Rose were the two main reasons I loved Vampire Academy and half of that equation is now missing. What Mead did to Dimitri in Blood Promise and now Spirit Bound has me wondering if I...more

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Jan 29, 2013 kari rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2010, ya, 2013

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. 4 1/2 stars
Wow, a gripping story, heartbreaking, complex and intriguing.
One major and really my only complaint: did we really need an unbelievable and uncomfortable love triangle??? Is that really neccessary in every teen book now? The one Rose loves and cannot have who we all know really does love her, but is being noble and putting her aside for her own good(who does he think he is, Edward Cullen?) so she takes up with the place-holder, in this case, out of anger/spite/grief. Puh-leez, the gir...more

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Jun 01, 2010 (´*•.¸ღBexღ¸.•*´) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to (´*•.¸ღBexღ¸.•*´) by: Everyone

Shelves: own

I find it very challenging to review this book because it was good in so many ways that can't be explained without spoilers. But worry not, this review is Spirit Bound Spoilers Free. I will do my best to express you the passion I felt reading this book, but I'm afraid it's beyond what words can explain.

Spirit Bound starts back at the Academy, it's finally graduation time and Rose has only one more challenge in front of her: The Trials. A final exam planned by guardians to test their ability to...more I find it very challenging to review this book because it was good in so many ways that can't be explained without spoilers. But worry not, this review is Spirit Bound Spoilers Free. I will do my best to express you the passion I felt reading this book, but I'm afraid it's beyond what words can explain.

Spirit Bound starts back at the Academy, it's finally graduation time and Rose has only one more challenge in front of her: The Trials. A final exam planned by guardians to test their ability to protect Moroi "in the real world". But what worries Rose the most is the after-graduation. She always thought it rimed with freedom but reality hit her in the face. She will spend her life protecting Moroi and her own desires won't matter anymore. There's not only the weight of responsibilities though, she knows Dimitri is out there, lurking in shadows, waiting for an opportunity to kill her.

In this installment, Rose is more determined than ever and will use extremely illegal ways to reach her objectives. Desperation to save Dimitri, while she still can, drives her actions and consequences won't be light. She is not risking only her future and her life but also the ones of people she loves.

When we love a book, we all say "I couldn't put it down", well in this case, I loved the book so much I HAD to put it down and take deep breaths because it was just too much. Love, Passion, Treason, Fear, Sadness, Grief, all these emotions laid on paper in a so intense way it almost became unbearable. At times I couldn't believe my own eyes, events happening in that book triggered reactions in me that are beyond words!

I really love both Rose and Lissa for their very distinct qualities, and even though they are very different, they have one thing in common: they would do anything for each other.
Adrian is as snarky as ever but we get to discover a new side to him. I really like the guy and it's clear he cares about Rose and I loved to watch them together.
Dimitri, oh Dimitri! He broke my heart in Blood Promise and Spirit Bound wasn't any easier. At times I really felt like hitting him in the head to knock some sense into him and even though I would have a lot to say, I won't spill the beans and ruin surprises. I will mention though that chapters 20 and 24 nearly killed me.
I was glad that Abe was in SB, he didn't play a major role but it was nice to have him around and I think he will have a bigger role in The Last Sacrifice.

The end is as usual a cliff hanger, if suspense could kill Richelle Mead would be in danger of trial for massive murder, because I really don't know how I will be able to wait until December to know how this epic story ends.

Vampire Academy is my favorite series and Richelle delivered. Spirit Bound was action-packed, full of surprises, emotions and magic. I was in awe so many times during this book, it really was fabulous.
I think Shadow Kiss is still my favorite of the series because I'm such a romantic but Spirit Bound is very close second.

I really hope Rose will have her happy ending in The Last Sacrifice (even though the title doesn't point that way), she's been through so much, she really deserves her happily ever after.
(less)

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Jul 21, 2010 Daiane rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Nov 05, 2010 Heather rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

GOT ME HOLDING MY BREATHE TIL THE LAST ONE COME OUT!!!! what is going to happen to Rose??? YAAY!!! Dimitri is back!!!!

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Jun 21, 2010 Dot rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. i really cant wait to read this one.
i also have a theory :)
i reckon that adrian will be the one to save dimitri and give him back his soul. in the blood promise rose met the couple who share a bond where she was given the ring created by the elements which helps her block out the spirits she keeps seeing. when dimitri touched it he appeared to become the old loving dimitri, askign about if family and being generally nice to rose as opposed to what he was liek for the most of the book.
Adrian and...more i really cant wait to read this one.
i also have a theory :)
i reckon that adrian will be the one to save dimitri and give him back his soul. in the blood promise rose met the couple who share a bond where she was given the ring created by the elements which helps her block out the spirits she keeps seeing. when dimitri touched it he appeared to become the old loving dimitri, askign about if family and being generally nice to rose as opposed to what he was liek for the most of the book.
Adrian and Aissa have the same power which enables them to use all of the elements which also means that they can heal and as lissa did with rose bring a person back to life creating a bond between the two.
sooooo i reckon that seen as Lissa has already created the bond with lissa it kinda just leaves Adrian right?
so im thinking maybe he can use his power to return dimitris soul and make him a dhamphir again rather than a strigio ?

Thats what im hoping anyway but im guesing Dimitri wont get turned back anytime soon scene as the 6th book is rumoured to be called the Last Sacrifice

WOAH!!!
Right I have just finished reading spirit bound and Im at a total loss for words. It is so different than what I had expected but it didnt dissapoint one bit. And Boyy was my prediction on it sooo wrong.
It is now by far the best of the series. I cried laughed and even felt myself get a little angry when reading this one and found myself likeing rose and adrian as a couple with everypage. that does not how ever mean im not holding out for dimitri though, who is now back to his damphir self. well almost, he refuses to speak to rose claiming he no longer loves nor deserves her because of what he has done and worships the ground lissa walks on for saving him and returning his soul ( the part were he worships lissa made me a little angrywhen first reading). i learnt alot about rose in this book and how she isnt the tough girl thats shes been made out to be in the earlier books.
Sooo...... I now waiting for the next and i think final book ?? the last sacrafice!
ive been brooding over the blurb for the past hour since finishing spirit bound and just cant wait to finally find out what happens and whether rose will finally get her happy ending?

AND SORRY ABOUT SPELLING MISTAKES I GET A LITTLE KEY BOARD HAPPY :D(less)

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Jan 11, 2013 Brenna rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: own-in-print

"It was like one of those moments when people talked about their lives flashing before their eyes."

Yet another amazing book to add to the awesomeness that is VA! :)

Spirit Bound begins three months after Blood Promise ends. Rose, Lissa, Christian and the rest of the seniors are finally graduating from the academy and are preparing for the next step in the lives.

“Well, you've finally got a license to kill. It's about time.”

Right away there is a lot of action with Rose and the gang. Crazy decisi...more

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May 31, 2010 Jillian -always aspiring- rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Fans of drama, angst, (subtle) political intrigues -- and the first four books, of course

Shelves: best-characters, best-endings, couldn-t-stop-reading-it, 2010-reads, reviewed

Okay, I devoured this book in an almost-non-stop reading session -- and, hooray, hooray, I was not left disappointed.

The appeal of the Vampire Academy books is that they’re very. . .twisty. Richelle Mead never quite gives you what you expect with her plot lines -- and that is a wonderful thing with her Vampire Academy books which are very delicious, intricate reads that somehow always manage to tug you in. . .and never let you go. (They also happen to be my favorite vampire books.)

While the four...more Okay, I devoured this book in an almost-non-stop reading session -- and, hooray, hooray, I was not left disappointed.

The appeal of the Vampire Academy books is that they’re very. . .twisty. Richelle Mead never quite gives you what you expect with her plot lines -- and that is a wonderful thing with her Vampire Academy books which are very delicious, intricate reads that somehow always manage to tug you in. . .and never let you go. (They also happen to be my favorite vampire books.)

While the fourth book Blood Promise was arguably more filler weaved with plot than vice-versa, the follow-up Spirit Bound definitely returns with a punch. When last we left off with Rose Hathaway and Co., Rose had returned from her “solo mission” to find out that all her work had been for naught because big, bad mentor/lover-turned-Strigoi Dimitri was still alive even after taking a stake to the chest. SB opens with Rose musing over his threat to come back and repay the favor. . .all the while also worrying over her impending graduation with the customary guardian trial-test for which she has trained practically all of her life. What awaits in Rose’s uncertain future? Well, this book may give you some idea. . .

I could go into rant-rave-and-speculate mode by spoiling everything in this review -- but I won’t. Just know that a lot does happen even though very little time -- a few weeks at most -- passes in this book. Events flow one after the next, and we’re swept along with the characters with each new upheaval. The setting shifts many times, but the main drama of the book takes place in the Moroi Court. Political intrigues and agendas abound even as questions of love, morality, and choice wage among the characters. (Speaking of characters. . .I really enjoyed seeing how some of them have changed compared to how they were when they were first introduced. There’s been growth in many of them, and I enjoy and appreciate that very much. Characters may need flaws to appear realistic, but they eventually need growth too.)

(Also, I want to gush about Adrian -- but I shall refrain on that front too.)

I was very satisfied with almost all of what I read (however much I wanted to reach into the book and shake certain characters at various points), lest I make anyone think otherwise. (I was even surprised a few times -- enough to gasp or laugh out loud at some intervals -- and that‘s always nice to read something that can affect you in so many different ways.)

The ending (and the revelation that comes with it), while not being wholly unexpected, is the perfect cliffhanger to set up for the finale in The Last Sacrifice. Overall, Spirit Bound was a fun, suspenseful read for me, and fans of the series will likely enjoy this installment and wait with eager anticipation for more of Richelle Mead’s alluring Vampire Academy world.

(Lastly, on a side tangent -- I really hope Richelle Mead’s next series, supposedly another six-book series set in the VA world, will center around the Alchemist named Sydney, who receives a cameo in this novel. Since her base is now New Orleans -- touted as being the most haunted city in the United States -- it doesn’t seem too beyond the realm of possibility that the new series will focus on her.)(less)

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Jan 02, 2013 Natasha marked it as to-read · review of another edition

I cannot wait for this book. I know there is going to be a book 6 because I checked it out, but I think this book will be a big turning point in the series. I really hope she saves Dimitri because I really loved him and didn't like the new Dimitri so much. It broke my heart to see the new Dimitri.I also really like Adrian and hope she doesn't break his heart, he deserves a chance. It's hard for me to think of another besides Dimitri but I would go for Adrian no doubt about it. I really can't wai...more

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Roksana I so agree with you! I love Rose-Dimitri and want them to make it as a couple how ever I realy realy like Adrian.....and I want him to be with some on...more
updated Sep 28, 2009 01:57pm

Natasha Your really cold see parts of the old Dimitri show through, especally when talking about his family. I was so sad, I felt that she would fit in with t...more
Sep 28, 2009 02:11pm

Roksana The only thing is would he turn back to Damphir? because then they can never have kids....or would he change to Moroi now that he is a strigoi? that w...more
Sep 28, 2009 02:19pm

Dec 25, 2012 Book Chick City rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: young-adult, paranormal-ya, book-list-2010, favorites

**warning - may contain spoilers** (9/10 on Book Chick City)

After the amazing emotional rollar coaster of 'Blood Promise', this 5th instalment did slow things down a little bit, but only for the first half of the book. It begins slowly with Rose and her friends settling in to life after school. They are out in the real world and as fully-fledged Guardians are now awaiting their assignments.

However, things are not running smoothly for Lissa and Christian and Rose is still reeling after her encoun...more **warning - may contain spoilers** (9/10 on Book Chick City)

After the amazing emotional rollar coaster of 'Blood Promise', this 5th instalment did slow things down a little bit, but only for the first half of the book. It begins slowly with Rose and her friends settling in to life after school. They are out in the real world and as fully-fledged Guardians are now awaiting their assignments.

However, things are not running smoothly for Lissa and Christian and Rose is still reeling after her encounters with Dimitri, but the lovely Adrian is there to help her through it. Things between these two are getting a little more serious and Adrian plays a much bigger role in Rose's life.

Other than 'Shadow Kiss', Rose has been a fantastically strong female character. She's determined, loyal and a fighter, and in 'Spirit Bound' she's no different. Occasionally her mouth runs away with her and she sounds a little bit petulant, but I've come to expect that of Rose. It's not a sign of immaturity anymore, it's just who she is. She speaks her mind and doesn't care who she's speaking it to, even the Moroi Queen.

As with all the books, I'm just waiting for the entrance of Dimitri...Dimitri, Dimitri...*sigh* This man is just gorgeous. It really doesn't matter whether he's Dhampir or Strigoi, he's captured my heart completely.

When the time arrives and Dimitri is back once more (which takes nearly the first half of the book - far too long in my opinion), it's with a bang. Lissa wants to help Rose, especially after all she's been through with regards to Dimitri and her time in Siberia and shows a lot of determination and courage as she devises a plan with her boyfriend, Christian to bring Dimitri back from the Undead to the living. When Rose realises what they are planning it worries her as neither really have any experience with Strigoi. This is where the book really picks up and starts breaking my heart all over again.

I absolutely love all the interactions between Rose and Dimitri and they have truly become one of my favourite literature couples. And although I like Adrian, who's sweet and funny, he just doesn't come close to Dimitri and I'm a little worried where he fits in to Rose's life now Dimitri is back....I'm a little afraid to read 'Last Sacrifice'...

VERDICT:

Richelle Mead can do no wrong in my eyes, so far this series has been exceptionally good. I cannot wait to read 'Last Sacrifice' - I just hope it ends the way I want it to...(less)

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Jul 24, 2010 Kristi (The Story Siren) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: books-i-own

How awesome is this series?! If you haven’t read these books, you really should. They are fantastically written and just plain ole’ awesome. I know a lot of people are burnt out on the whole vampire genre as a whole, but as strange as it sounds these novels aren’t really about vampires.... I mean they are, but they are about friendship, love, adventure, sacrifice, heartache...... so so very much more than vampires. I mean if you have to, you can just pretend like they aren’t vampires....

I’ve lo...more How awesome is this series?! If you haven’t read these books, you really should. They are fantastically written and just plain ole’ awesome. I know a lot of people are burnt out on the whole vampire genre as a whole, but as strange as it sounds these novels aren’t really about vampires.... I mean they are, but they are about friendship, love, adventure, sacrifice, heartache...... so so very much more than vampires. I mean if you have to, you can just pretend like they aren’t vampires....

I’ve loved this series since the first pages of Vampire Academy. Richelle was the first author that I ever met in person.... it was shortly after the release of Shadow Kiss, the books weren’t quite as popular as they are now, but I knew it would only be a matter of time. Richelle is as beautiful in person as she is online, and she’s incredibly sweet and intelligent! And I can honestly say that this series is only getting better.

*Warning... read at your own risk... Possible SPOILERS AHEAD*

Mead really surprised me with this book. She isn’t one of those authors that drags shit out just to have a reason to come out with another book. She gives you a resolution to the problem... yeah, she might throw in another one there, but hey, she gives you something and it’s usually something good. I honestly thought we were going to take the entire novel to figure out how to bring Dimitri back... I thought it would be a long drawn out adventure. I expected it to be fun, sure, but I figured we wouldn’t get answer until the last few pages. PSYCH! Okay, Mead... you got me. Rose figures out what she has to do and the conclusion was like a slap in the forehead... why didn’t I see that coming! And the whole adventure was legitimate... you know what I’m talking about, sometimes things just work out too nicely, and you think “yeah, like that would really happen” but instead I was thinking.... “yeah, that could work.” Totally did not see the Dimitiri thing working out that way though.... not the way I had it resolving in my head, but then again, Mead did it so much better! It definitely made for an interesting second half of the book though.... and that ending holy cannoli people! How is Rose going to wiggle herself out of this one!

*End Spoiler-e-ness*

Adrian is really growing on me. I had a lot of ‘awww’ moments in this book. And that surprises me because I told myself that I was going to hate him and stay firmly on Team Dimitri... but I find myself waning.

This book was everything I was hoping it would be and more. I LOVE this series... absolutely love it. It's the same every time I read a new book in the series... I CAN'T put it down! I've given up trying to predict how the story is going to go, because I've gotten it wrong every single time... EVERY SINGLE TIME. And I love that aspect. Totally blown away. Cannot wait to read Last Sacrifice..... December can't come fast enough.

Like I said... if you haven't read this series you really should. I just know you'll fall in love with the characters and the story as much as I have.(less)

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Feb 02, 2013 The Flooze rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy-paranormal, vanquished_2011, glutton_for_punishment, ya_teen

Dramatic, certainly. And relatively well-paced, in a way that makes this installment slightly better than the rest. Instead of taking place at St. Vladimir’s Academy, the majority of Spirit Bound finds Rose, Lissa and friends either out in the real world or inside the Moroi court. Yes, Blood Promise was also set outside the confines of the school atmosphere, but having Rose’s friends around her means we have more characters to focus on and a more balanced story.

Unfortunately, it’s still one wit...more Dramatic, certainly. And relatively well-paced, in a way that makes this installment slightly better than the rest. Instead of taking place at St. Vladimir’s Academy, the majority of Spirit Bound finds Rose, Lissa and friends either out in the real world or inside the Moroi court. Yes, Blood Promise was also set outside the confines of the school atmosphere, but having Rose’s friends around her means we have more characters to focus on and a more balanced story.

Unfortunately, it’s still one with heaps of problems.

I enjoyed Mead’s exploration of Moroi politics and wish she'd delved into it even further. Seeing how the society is governed and the different factions emerging in light of the Strigoi threat brings greater gravity to the situation. Rather than eavesdropping or making assumptions, Rose and Lissa are able to visit court discussions, interact with the queen, and gain knowledge of new rulings almost immediately. Meeting other members of the Moroi race highlights the different opinions held within their society - most notably, their view of Dhampirs. Rose finally understands that many of the elite respect the Dhampir race and hold their sacrifices in high regard. She also realises that the real world is not school. Acting out does not result in demerits or a slap on the wrist. Instead, she faces the very real threat of never being assigned as Lissa’s guardian. Moreover, she risks never being assigned to field work at all and sees the very real chance that mountains of administrative tasks might be all she has to look forward to.

As for the rest…there are so many tiresome aspects to the story. Victor, Dimitri, Adrian - Rose’s immature interactions with each stand in stark contrast to the more adult environment she inhabits. Granted, she’s still 18. But with everyone telling her what a dynamo she is, shouldn’t I be allowed to expect more from her? Instead Spirit Bound finds her as infuriating as ever.

Here lies a rant: (view spoiler)

With only one more book to go, I might as well finish the series. Most of my predictions already came true, so at the very least the last installment should include some surprises? Maybe? That’s my hope, but not one I'll hold too dearly. (less)

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Aug 06, 2011 Giselle rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal

Spirit Bound, the 5th book in the Vampire Academy series, was definitely an improvement over the last instalment, and probably my favourite of the 5.

Finally, Rose is a real guardian, but being in the real world is more serious than what she thought. Real consequences, real life. There were no 200 pages of boredom in this one, there is lots happening from the very beginning. Rose is more determined than ever and goes to extreme measures - even for her - to try and save Dimitri from his Strigoi st...more Spirit Bound, the 5th book in the Vampire Academy series, was definitely an improvement over the last instalment, and probably my favourite of the 5.

Finally, Rose is a real guardian, but being in the real world is more serious than what she thought. Real consequences, real life. There were no 200 pages of boredom in this one, there is lots happening from the very beginning. Rose is more determined than ever and goes to extreme measures - even for her - to try and save Dimitri from his Strigoi state. This was the only book in the series where I was looking forward to reading more of it, and excited to find out how it was all going to unfold.

The reviews for Spirit Bound seems to be going either way - you either love it or hate it. When I read those who hate it, it seems to be mostly due to what Mead put her characters through. So if you only like books that go your way (girl finds boy, girl gets boy, nothing happens, the end) maybe this isn't for you. Mead likes to twist things around and give you the unexpected. Personally, I enjoyed it. No, the series is not flawless, but the crap that Rose and Dimitri are going through is undoubtedly entertaining and highly emotional. Yes Rose has changed, I would be sceptical if she hadn't with everything that's happened. She isn't as moody in this one though, but there is clearly more going on with her - emotional wise - than the indifferent Rose we had at the beginning.

As for the romance, at this point I'm still 100% pro-Adrian, but mostly because he's sweet and the "safe" choice. I understand that for her, Dimitri is her everything, her true love. However, I think her and Dimitri's relationship has been under too much agony to ever be restored - no matter what happens. Either way, it seems Rose is screwed (no pun intended).

Like all of the others, this book was full of twists. Some were expected, but a few still made me gasp, and the ending was great. I'm not sure, well actually, I'm Pretty sure how Mead is going to finish the series and I don't think I will like it - she will go cliché I just know it. Still, this book in itself deserves all its 4 stars.

Side note: If you haven't finished this series, don't go read the blurb for the new spin-off Bloodlines - you may not notice a spoiler for Last Sacrifice, but I did :( (view spoiler)(less)

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Mar 07, 2012 Sofia rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: absolutetly-despicable-mcs, action-packed, fantasy, maybe-good-enough-to-continue, vampires-gotta-have-a-shelf-right

This book is better than Blood Promise. Really. It is. It's better paced, there is far more action, all the characters we know and love are back (for the most part), and the plot twist at the end is decent.

But... well, there's no point in beating about the bush, is there?

Rose... Oh my god, Rose...

Even if you mixed the DNA of Bella Swan, Regina George, and a female dog to create some kind of super bitch, the resulting hybrid would not come close to the absolute monster Rose becomes in this book....more

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Jan 11, 2013 ♫♥LEXI♥♫ rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2010

this was really good!!!!! cant wait for the final book

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Feb 12, 2011 Michelle♥ rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: vampires, young-adult

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Seriously?? I am returning this book. Screw this! This was so not worth the wait! Grrrr! and UGH!!! sum up this review. Let me say that there will be major spoilers discussed from here on out, and for those of you who have not read it yet, look away and don't bother reading this one. WASTE OF YOUR TIME and guaranteed your imagination was better off than the way this plot of left.

*****SPOILERS****

Ugh! Where to begin?! Seriously Rose has to actually take those trial tests? Like really? As her bad-...more

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May 19, 2010 Bule.read moreno rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. i loved this book it stil broke me heart and left me with alot of unanswered questions however i know they will all be answered in the nexy book last sacrafice.....

So it starts with rose and lisa graduating and ofcorse rose gets the highst scores in the class then they got to the court were the guardians are suppose to get assigned to there moroi.However rose starts getting ready to go free victor from the jail once they free him they go to las vegas to look for victor brother robert once there...more i loved this book it stil broke me heart and left me with alot of unanswered questions however i know they will all be answered in the nexy book last sacrafice.....

So it starts with rose and lisa graduating and ofcorse rose gets the highst scores in the class then they got to the court were the guardians are suppose to get assigned to there moroi.However rose starts getting ready to go free victor from the jail once they free him they go to las vegas to look for victor brother robert once there adrian shows up and gets upset at rose for helping free victor but he agrees to continue with her and the robert tells them that the way he freed a strogoi was with a stake field with magic from a spirit user.. but the demtri shows up in las vegas wanting to kill rose and they begin to fight but rose and the other manage to sneak out. in the cause victor diaepers.. they return to the court rose gets puniushed and cant go with lisa the university . lisa alo finds out that she cant be on the counsil because the family has to atleats have two members in the family.adrian introdues rose to his family and tells her taht he loves her sicne the first day taht tehy meet . once lisa goes the university lisa trys to figure out how to but magic in the stake even though rose doesnt want her to she does it anyway . demtri kidnaps lisa and christian to use for bait and then rose goes and trys to save lisa but lisa had figured out a way to put magic in the stake and kills demtri. well doesnt kil him but brings him back from the strogori state... once hes back his diffent he wants to only see lisa and doesnt want to see rose. ofcours rose gets mad but trys to understand through her bond with lisa she hears a converstaion with demtri were he explains that didnt want to see her because he was ashemed.sad and mad at all the thigs he had done to rose and all the poeple he had killed so he told himself that he couldnt be with her because he didnt deserve her. adrian was upset because rose kept trying to see demtri then at a church demtri and rose were fighting and he said that his love had faided for her which i know is a lie.....any way rose was sad depressed so she desided that if demitri dint want to be with her she would stay with adrian he had awlays been there for her and she knew that adrian loved her no mater what she did they were in the moment and her and drian were about to have sex but she couldnt because he didnt have any protection so she let him drink blood from her. the next dayt she was on her way to the debates when she ran into demtri they began to discuss there sittion . when the roayal guards came. at first rose thought they were there for demtri but then they told her that they were there for her. demtri at once statred fighting all of them trying to protect rose but then rose relized that if he kept fighting they would think he was still a strogri so she told himn to stop but demirti said he wouldnt let them touch her.so she went to him got a hold of his hands and they had taht conection that the had.. he uderstood why she was asking him to stop and was going so that they wouldnt do anything to him and she understood that even thogh demtri said he didnt love her he did . then rose ask why she was beeing arsted and they said that she had killed queen tatiana. she goes to her haering and zmey shows up to be her layer and then after the council deside that there was enough evidence against her they would go to trails. she gets a note fromambrose taht from tatioan and tells her that lisa has an ieligitamte brother and that rose has to find him in order for lisa to take her rightful place in the council and queen and abe tells rose that traitor dont go to jail that they are exuted and thats how it ends..........
i still dont kkjow if she goes to jail
if lisa becomes queen
and most imporatntlu does she choose demitri or adrian? guess i ll have to qwait fro the next book .......sigh..december is far from now.......... (less)

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Oct 20, 2009 Lauren rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Look, I'm sorry to everyone who loved this book and thinks that Adrian and Rose are the best cupple there will ever be in the whole world. But this book completely stunk. It was one of the worst books I have ever read. Which is saying a lot because I love Vampire Academy. Its like my favorite series ever. Now? I'm not so sure. Me and my best friend were crazy about VA. We would spend hours on the phone trying to figure out what Richelle Mead would do next. We went through the first three books i...more Look, I'm sorry to everyone who loved this book and thinks that Adrian and Rose are the best cupple there will ever be in the whole world. But this book completely stunk. It was one of the worst books I have ever read. Which is saying a lot because I love Vampire Academy. Its like my favorite series ever. Now? I'm not so sure. Me and my best friend were crazy about VA. We would spend hours on the phone trying to figure out what Richelle Mead would do next. We went through the first three books in a flash. And adored them all. Then...the fourth book came out. And it wasn't too bad, but it wasn't as good as the privious three. I mean, come on Rose! Just because you found your true love again doesn't mean you have to be a strigoi bite junkie. So anyway, we were sure that this book was going to make the privious books look like 'short stories' We were so excited for it to come out. We waited five months in total agony for this book to come out. And it finally did. We couldn't have been more mistaken. We thouht that the fourth book was the worst it could get (which as i said, wasn't too bad) But this book was terrible. I can't even emagine how it got worse. It made me sad because I don't know if I like the series anymore. Sure I'll read the sixth book to see what happens, but all i can say is that i hope its better than the fifth one. And I really want Dimitri and Rose to be together in the end. I never saw Adrian as a real player. He was just an understanding friend on the side to help rose. But now he 'loves' her? Rose has to keep trying for Dimitri. By dating Adrian, she is nothing but a coward, and she has lost all her 'Rose Bravado'. She Isn't the character she is suppose to be. She is weak and pitiful, hiding behind Adrian. She needs to step up, and show Dimitri that She still loves him and he still loves her and that 'love doesn't fade' And I have a good feeling that in the next book, she will do just that. Please Richelle...Don't let me and my friend down. We are counting on you.(less)

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Mar 20, 2013 Ash Wednesday (Cupcake Ninja) rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: pnr, young-adult, review

3.5 STARS...

Very spoilery, proceed with donuts and caution.

Why Richelle Mead?! Just when I thought we were getting friendly...

I really wanted to give this one a 3 because Rose just kicked my trichotillomania back into gear and the plot devices seriously drove me bonkers but thought better of it because of Abe Mazur.

I don't know why the author would do it thus far into the series but man, she's really making it hard for me to want to read the final book. With how she was written in this one, I t...more

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Jun 18, 2010 Ivy rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: young-adult

I recently picked up the Vampire Academy series after hearing much buzz about it and seeing that the latest book had just come out. I wanted to finish reading all five novels before reviewing to get a better sense of where Mead was heading with her characters.

My general impression is that while Mead can certainly write page turning novels, she doesn't quite know what to do with her characters. From the beginning I don't get a definite feel for the relationship between Rose and Dimitri because he...more I recently picked up the Vampire Academy series after hearing much buzz about it and seeing that the latest book had just come out. I wanted to finish reading all five novels before reviewing to get a better sense of where Mead was heading with her characters.

My general impression is that while Mead can certainly write page turning novels, she doesn't quite know what to do with her characters. From the beginning I don't get a definite feel for the relationship between Rose and Dimitri because he's too busy trying to stay away from her for the good of all. There isn't enough conflict to make that relationship believable. Dimitri is sort of an enigma with the descriptions of tall, dark shoulder-length hair and gorgeous to describe his physical appearance; and the terms "badass" and "god" to describe his prowess in combat. He seemed a works in progress from books one through three.

Just as the romance begins to heat up between Rose and Dimitri he is unmercifully destroyed before his time. This left me even more frustrated with Mead's choices as the plot started looking too much like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer's" 2nd season.

By the time "Blood Promise" rolled around I felt that this ship was sinking fast. Mead had introduced several secondary characters that didn't really do much to further the plots. Rose is wandering around Siberia looking for Dimitri who, believe it or not, has become more interesting as Strigoi. The book actually got more interesting when he reappears but it's not until the second half.

There are too many loose ends, convenient plot twists and poorly executed ideas. I also found myself disliking the main character. An author is supposed to make you empathsize with a hero/heroine, but Rose Hathaway was an annoying brat with a bad temper. There were times I could have cared less if she got Dimitri back or not. The sloppy ending in Spirit Bound is inexusable. I have never seen an author end a book so abruptly. Usually, a book needs to be wrapped up and this one felt like it needed closing chapter. No such considerations for the reader.

I suppose with two other books coming out almost at the same time as Blood Promise, it's natural that quality is going to suffer. Mead should have made this series her top priority. Yet, it had the feel of being squeezed in between her Succubus series and other works, and that's a shame. I was hoping I would like these much more than I did, but the writing is mediocre at best.

Three stars for Spirit Bound and three stars for the entire series to date.(less)

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Nov 27, 2009 Madelyn rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I guess I want to read it. But Dimitri was my favorite character. And unless he comes back and becomes human, I'm ditching these books.

4 likes · like · see review

topics	posts	views	last activity
Bloodlines Series...: Spirit Bound	22	17	Mar 12, 2013 09:09pm
more more and more books	10	55	Feb 06, 2013 03:44am
Dimitri or Adrian?	190	458	Feb 04, 2013 10:30am
Addicted to YA: Spirit Bound	5	100	Feb 01, 2013 02:50pm
My Vampire Academ...: Spirit Bound	4	11	Aug 17, 2012 08:06pm
The Indie Exchang...: YA- Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead	3	13	Jun 18, 2012 06:29am

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Spirit Bound (Vampire Academy #5)

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