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Lone Star Witch #2
Flamebound
After Xandra’s nasty run in with the Arcadian Council of Witches—where she was almost killed and her boyfriend, Declan, was almost framed for it—her plan is to lay low and figure out why its members would torment the people they are supposed to protect. Declan, temperamental and protective warlock that he is, doesn’t feel so reticent. And when violence erupts again, there’s no stopping him from pursuing revenge…
When a council member is murdered in a fashion that screams dark magic, Declan claims someone else beat him to it. Xandra doesn’t want to believe he could commit such a brutal act, but she knows he has a dark side—one that his former love interest Tsura understands better than she ever will. With Tsura back in town, Xandra doesn’t know whom to trust. And a killer targeting witches and wizards is still at large…
When a council member is murdered in a fashion that screams dark magic, Declan claims someone else beat him to it. Xandra doesn’t want to believe he could commit such a brutal act, but she knows he has a dark side—one that his former love interest Tsura understands better than she ever will. With Tsura back in town, Xandra doesn’t know whom to trust. And a killer targeting witches and wizards is still at large…
368 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 3, 2013
10 people are currently reading
903 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Adams
11 books263 followersPseudonym for Tracy Wolff
Tessa Adams lives in Texas and teaches writing at her local community college. She is married and the mother of three young sons.
Tessa Adams lives in Texas and teaches writing at her local community college. She is married and the mother of three young sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
June 3, 2016
This book has been sitting on my shelf for a while though I originally picked it up because I was interested in the paranormal angle with witches and also the intrigue and romance. Mostly, this sat as long as it did because I discovered that it is the second in a series. Now, normally, this doesn't deter me, but it's an Urban Fantasy and those I tend to respect the series order a bit more.
But, I just never got around to the first book and decided to go for it.
And, how did that go you ask?
Surprisingly well. Got lucky again.
But I will say, it was quite obvious I was catching a story mid-way through. The author did enough groundwork that I didn't have trouble getting up to speed and into the current story. And truthfully, there were some points in favor of skipping what went before this one. I enjoyed the story, but I think my opinion going in might have been different had I gotten the previous book. More on that later.
The story opens with coven witch, Xandra, newly recovered from recent harrowing experiences at the hands of a surprising betrayer, the witches' governing council, the ACW. She was abused and tortured by a fiend because the ACW considers her a danger in the future when her formidable powers awakened and wanted her dead before that could happen. They also 'soulbound' her to a dark witch to restrain his powers because he, too, was considered a threat.
Xandra's witch magic came late after she had lived many years as a disappointment to herself and her magically gifted family. She left home and made a place for herself in the human world running her bakery and conjuring up sweets instead of potions. Her world is turned upside down when her first power unlocks to reveal a magic that compels her to find the bodies of people lost and killed which puts her in the crosshairs of killers and the enigmatic warlock, Declan, to whom she was soulbound since birth. Declan is now a part of her life after the experiences of being captured, raped, and tortured at the behest of the ACW council.
Xandra is convinced that Declan's dark warlock past and ways will always be between them. He smolders with the need for revenge against the ACW. She can't understand this dark need since it was her who was the one nearly killed and very much abused. He can't go up against all that power even though he swears it has to be done because the ACW will not quit until they gain what they want.
But soon, Xandra has more worries as a little girl goes missing and council members are being killed. Xandra's magic pulls her to the scenes and gives her a connection to the missing girl. Is Declan behind this? Either way, Declan and Xandra are the likely suspects and must figure things out quickly.
Alright, so I jumped in mid-stream, but I got a feel for the character, the previous books' events, and the current situation enough to appreciate the story. Overall, I liked it, but there were things that were disappointing. There are some good action sequences in this book and I'm always up for a good murder mystery. The potential of an interesting early relationship between a warlock and witch as investigative partners and lovers had strong appeal. However, I had issues with the heroine that made some of my enjoyment go flat.
I struggled early with the heroine and it had to do with how she was written. This was a heroine who had just been raped and tortured. She is described as still bearing the cuts and scars, in fact. And not only that, her attacker was sent by the government authority of her people with their full approval. But not once in this book did the heroine act like a survivor of such a thing.
However, the author did write the hero in such a way that he did feel like a man who was in a relationship with a rape and torture survivor. He is angry at having to helplessly be there and not have prevented it, he is murderously wrathful at those who were responsible and wants to take down that evil group, and he is careful and protective of her so that he needs to know where she is and what she is doing and he needs to be by her side when she knowingly faces danger.
And why is that important?
Because it felt off, for one. Those things should have more impact on the character if they are used in a story. And because they don't have impact, the heroine doesn't ring true for me. There is a lot of sex and so many times when there are some really bad stuff going down. The sex already didn't make sense since she is recovering from rape and abuse, but it really doesn't make sense when a little girl is in danger and when Xandra herself is in serious trouble because of the murders. Then, there is her issues with Declan. She spends the whole book upset because Declan wants revenge and how she can't be with a guy this dark when yeesh, she seems to be the only one who doesn't get what went down here. I'm five pages into the story and know that the situation isn't over and, evil, particularly with that sort of authority and power, can't go unchecked, so it was tough reading as she worked hard to excuse and cajole the bad guys when Declan had it right and she was punishing him for it with her attitude and doubt.
I was also disappointed in how the worldbuilding was not described or explained much at all. There is magic and witchery and it was all so vague. It was like a minor side element that I would have like to have seen richly described and a larger part of the story. The 'hows' and the 'why's were only vaguely addressed and left me dissatisfied. I think some was probably explained in the first book, but not all or there would have been more inclusion of the world of the witches in this one, too. The scenes with Declan meditating and practicing his fire magic in the beginning and with Xandra and her roommate doing the taro reading were the few moments witch magic was really used in the story and those were good.
So, this was an interesting venture that left me with a moderate liking for the story. I would direct this series toward those who enjoy passionate paranormals or Urban Fantasies involving witches and magic, but caution for the issues.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
But, I just never got around to the first book and decided to go for it.
And, how did that go you ask?
Surprisingly well. Got lucky again.
But I will say, it was quite obvious I was catching a story mid-way through. The author did enough groundwork that I didn't have trouble getting up to speed and into the current story. And truthfully, there were some points in favor of skipping what went before this one. I enjoyed the story, but I think my opinion going in might have been different had I gotten the previous book. More on that later.
The story opens with coven witch, Xandra, newly recovered from recent harrowing experiences at the hands of a surprising betrayer, the witches' governing council, the ACW. She was abused and tortured by a fiend because the ACW considers her a danger in the future when her formidable powers awakened and wanted her dead before that could happen. They also 'soulbound' her to a dark witch to restrain his powers because he, too, was considered a threat.
Xandra's witch magic came late after she had lived many years as a disappointment to herself and her magically gifted family. She left home and made a place for herself in the human world running her bakery and conjuring up sweets instead of potions. Her world is turned upside down when her first power unlocks to reveal a magic that compels her to find the bodies of people lost and killed which puts her in the crosshairs of killers and the enigmatic warlock, Declan, to whom she was soulbound since birth. Declan is now a part of her life after the experiences of being captured, raped, and tortured at the behest of the ACW council.
Xandra is convinced that Declan's dark warlock past and ways will always be between them. He smolders with the need for revenge against the ACW. She can't understand this dark need since it was her who was the one nearly killed and very much abused. He can't go up against all that power even though he swears it has to be done because the ACW will not quit until they gain what they want.
But soon, Xandra has more worries as a little girl goes missing and council members are being killed. Xandra's magic pulls her to the scenes and gives her a connection to the missing girl. Is Declan behind this? Either way, Declan and Xandra are the likely suspects and must figure things out quickly.
Alright, so I jumped in mid-stream, but I got a feel for the character, the previous books' events, and the current situation enough to appreciate the story. Overall, I liked it, but there were things that were disappointing. There are some good action sequences in this book and I'm always up for a good murder mystery. The potential of an interesting early relationship between a warlock and witch as investigative partners and lovers had strong appeal. However, I had issues with the heroine that made some of my enjoyment go flat.
I struggled early with the heroine and it had to do with how she was written. This was a heroine who had just been raped and tortured. She is described as still bearing the cuts and scars, in fact. And not only that, her attacker was sent by the government authority of her people with their full approval. But not once in this book did the heroine act like a survivor of such a thing.
However, the author did write the hero in such a way that he did feel like a man who was in a relationship with a rape and torture survivor. He is angry at having to helplessly be there and not have prevented it, he is murderously wrathful at those who were responsible and wants to take down that evil group, and he is careful and protective of her so that he needs to know where she is and what she is doing and he needs to be by her side when she knowingly faces danger.
And why is that important?
Because it felt off, for one. Those things should have more impact on the character if they are used in a story. And because they don't have impact, the heroine doesn't ring true for me. There is a lot of sex and so many times when there are some really bad stuff going down. The sex already didn't make sense since she is recovering from rape and abuse, but it really doesn't make sense when a little girl is in danger and when Xandra herself is in serious trouble because of the murders. Then, there is her issues with Declan. She spends the whole book upset because Declan wants revenge and how she can't be with a guy this dark when yeesh, she seems to be the only one who doesn't get what went down here. I'm five pages into the story and know that the situation isn't over and, evil, particularly with that sort of authority and power, can't go unchecked, so it was tough reading as she worked hard to excuse and cajole the bad guys when Declan had it right and she was punishing him for it with her attitude and doubt.
I was also disappointed in how the worldbuilding was not described or explained much at all. There is magic and witchery and it was all so vague. It was like a minor side element that I would have like to have seen richly described and a larger part of the story. The 'hows' and the 'why's were only vaguely addressed and left me dissatisfied. I think some was probably explained in the first book, but not all or there would have been more inclusion of the world of the witches in this one, too. The scenes with Declan meditating and practicing his fire magic in the beginning and with Xandra and her roommate doing the taro reading were the few moments witch magic was really used in the story and those were good.
So, this was an interesting venture that left me with a moderate liking for the story. I would direct this series toward those who enjoy passionate paranormals or Urban Fantasies involving witches and magic, but caution for the issues.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2013
Review originally posted at http://fictionvixen.com/review-flameb...
As much as I enjoyed the first book in this series, Soulbound, it left off in a way that had me wondering if my copy had a few pages missing. Or maybe an epilogue. It ended rather abruptly, right after our main protagonists Xandra and Declan finally win the battle against the Arcadian Council of Witches. I mean seriously, there was this high energy race to find the killer and save Xandra’s life and then….. it was over. Not to worry though, book two picks up but a week after the events at the end of book one.
Declan and Xandra have shut themselves away in Declan’s house, finally able to immerse themselves in each other and regroup. But Xandra is worried that Declan won’t let recent events go and she’s right to be concerned. Declan is angry and it might take some time, but he is willing to wait to get his revenge. The killer behind the murders might be in custody and awaiting trial, but Declan holds the entire council responsible for almost killing his soulbound lover. Xandra is trying to come to terms with the terrible powers that have suddenly manifested after a life of being a latent witch. She’s just wants to spend some time getting to know her lover, work at her coffee shop and slowly figure out what to do from there. Being the seventh daughter of the seventh daughter and a member of the royal family, she knows that for her lover to try and eliminate the council would be disastrous.
There is no time for this couple to take a break though, when Xandra’s friend, and one- time would-be love interest, shows up asking for her help in locating a young girl gone missing all of a sudden Xandra is right back where she started. Her powers literally pushing and pulling her to find body after body. This time, it’s council members being murdered one after the other. The question is who is doing the killing and why do they need an innocent young girl to help them do it?
The Lone Star Witch series is one of the few new urban fantasy series I picked up this year. From beginning to end I was engrossed in the first book and couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. This is gritty, dark urban fantasy world where the reader is taken on a wild ride along with Xandra as she not only develops her powers abruptly and violently, but must also figure out what being soulbound to a powerful warlock means. In the second book her powers reach new heights. Every single time a council member is killed Xandra is compelled to find the body, violently. Her body takes a beating over and over, so much so that toward the end I wasn’t sure how she could keep getting up and going on. But she does. Xandra and Declan are constantly running and struggling and fighting to find the new killer and come out on top. The action never stops. I was truly surprised at the conclusion and how it all wrapped up. Once again there is an abrupt ending, but this time I was ready for it and willing to wait for another release to see what happens next.
I’ve struggled a bit with this review, simply because I wasn’t sure how to go about writing it without giving away too many spoilers. One thing I would say to people thinking about picking up this series is that it should be read in order. You will simply miss too much information and backstory if you don’t start from book one. There is a lot to love about this series, tough as nails heroine, sexy, dominate hero and some truly fantastic secondary characters. I’m already looking forward to book three. Final Grade- B-
Favorite Quote:
“Not everything’s about me, Declan.”
“Yes, goddamnit, Xandra, it is. In my life, it is all about you. How could you not know that?”
As much as I enjoyed the first book in this series, Soulbound, it left off in a way that had me wondering if my copy had a few pages missing. Or maybe an epilogue. It ended rather abruptly, right after our main protagonists Xandra and Declan finally win the battle against the Arcadian Council of Witches. I mean seriously, there was this high energy race to find the killer and save Xandra’s life and then….. it was over. Not to worry though, book two picks up but a week after the events at the end of book one.
Declan and Xandra have shut themselves away in Declan’s house, finally able to immerse themselves in each other and regroup. But Xandra is worried that Declan won’t let recent events go and she’s right to be concerned. Declan is angry and it might take some time, but he is willing to wait to get his revenge. The killer behind the murders might be in custody and awaiting trial, but Declan holds the entire council responsible for almost killing his soulbound lover. Xandra is trying to come to terms with the terrible powers that have suddenly manifested after a life of being a latent witch. She’s just wants to spend some time getting to know her lover, work at her coffee shop and slowly figure out what to do from there. Being the seventh daughter of the seventh daughter and a member of the royal family, she knows that for her lover to try and eliminate the council would be disastrous.
There is no time for this couple to take a break though, when Xandra’s friend, and one- time would-be love interest, shows up asking for her help in locating a young girl gone missing all of a sudden Xandra is right back where she started. Her powers literally pushing and pulling her to find body after body. This time, it’s council members being murdered one after the other. The question is who is doing the killing and why do they need an innocent young girl to help them do it?
The Lone Star Witch series is one of the few new urban fantasy series I picked up this year. From beginning to end I was engrossed in the first book and couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. This is gritty, dark urban fantasy world where the reader is taken on a wild ride along with Xandra as she not only develops her powers abruptly and violently, but must also figure out what being soulbound to a powerful warlock means. In the second book her powers reach new heights. Every single time a council member is killed Xandra is compelled to find the body, violently. Her body takes a beating over and over, so much so that toward the end I wasn’t sure how she could keep getting up and going on. But she does. Xandra and Declan are constantly running and struggling and fighting to find the new killer and come out on top. The action never stops. I was truly surprised at the conclusion and how it all wrapped up. Once again there is an abrupt ending, but this time I was ready for it and willing to wait for another release to see what happens next.
I’ve struggled a bit with this review, simply because I wasn’t sure how to go about writing it without giving away too many spoilers. One thing I would say to people thinking about picking up this series is that it should be read in order. You will simply miss too much information and backstory if you don’t start from book one. There is a lot to love about this series, tough as nails heroine, sexy, dominate hero and some truly fantastic secondary characters. I’m already looking forward to book three. Final Grade- B-
Favorite Quote:
“Not everything’s about me, Declan.”
“Yes, goddamnit, Xandra, it is. In my life, it is all about you. How could you not know that?”
March 30, 2017
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Trying to find a missing girl, and her family is under attack. Can Xandra and Declan figure it out?
Opening Sentence: “What are you doing?”
Excerpt: Yes
The Review:
Xandra and Declan are mated, but she just really wants some time to figure out why the ACW attacked her and tried to frame her boyfriend. Before she can really catch her breath Nick comes to her and asks for help finding a little girl named Shelby who was kidnapped. Xandra asks Lilly for help and she does a reading, all the while Xandra has a bad feeling about this. She is surprised when she connects with her psychically, but she still can’t figure out who has her and why.
Before she can figure that all out she is compelled to find a body and when Xandra and Lily arrive, she is not shocked when Declan shows up and helps them find the body. When it turns out to be a member of the council she is sure Declan is involved but he claims someone beat him to it. Then another body turns up and it is a race against time to figure out who is killing council members.
Then when her family is attacked Xandra is sure it is retaliation for the attacks against the council. Can Xandra find Shelby? Can Xandra find out who is killing the council before her family is attacked again?
This book picks up shortly after the first one, and is pretty good. It does have so much going on, and jumps back and forth between things pretty quickly. In between all the action, Xandra and Declan are getting even cozier. I like the series, although it doesn’t quite live up to it’s full potential and never fully explains what is going on. By the end of this book it still isn’t quite clear why the council went to such horrible lengths to attempt to kill Xandra in book 1.
Xandra and Declan aren’t fully explained either. We know they are Soulbound from book 1, but their power and the reason they were bound at birth isn’t fully explored either. I was left wanting a little bit more.
Notable Scene:
A chill runs down my spine at the words, and the singsongy way Lilly says them. Her body’s right in front of me, but I know that she’s gone far away. I want to scream at her to come back, to tell her that it’s dangerous, but she wouldn’t thank me for it. This is what she does–what I asked her to do. It’s not her fault that I’m suddenly filled with an overwhelming trepidation, a sickness in my stomach that warns me this reading isn’t going to end as well as I had hoped.
FTC Advisory: Berkley/Penguin provided me with a copy of Flamebound. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Trying to find a missing girl, and her family is under attack. Can Xandra and Declan figure it out?
Opening Sentence: “What are you doing?”
Excerpt: Yes
The Review:
Xandra and Declan are mated, but she just really wants some time to figure out why the ACW attacked her and tried to frame her boyfriend. Before she can really catch her breath Nick comes to her and asks for help finding a little girl named Shelby who was kidnapped. Xandra asks Lilly for help and she does a reading, all the while Xandra has a bad feeling about this. She is surprised when she connects with her psychically, but she still can’t figure out who has her and why.
Before she can figure that all out she is compelled to find a body and when Xandra and Lily arrive, she is not shocked when Declan shows up and helps them find the body. When it turns out to be a member of the council she is sure Declan is involved but he claims someone beat him to it. Then another body turns up and it is a race against time to figure out who is killing council members.
Then when her family is attacked Xandra is sure it is retaliation for the attacks against the council. Can Xandra find Shelby? Can Xandra find out who is killing the council before her family is attacked again?
This book picks up shortly after the first one, and is pretty good. It does have so much going on, and jumps back and forth between things pretty quickly. In between all the action, Xandra and Declan are getting even cozier. I like the series, although it doesn’t quite live up to it’s full potential and never fully explains what is going on. By the end of this book it still isn’t quite clear why the council went to such horrible lengths to attempt to kill Xandra in book 1.
Xandra and Declan aren’t fully explained either. We know they are Soulbound from book 1, but their power and the reason they were bound at birth isn’t fully explored either. I was left wanting a little bit more.
Notable Scene:
A chill runs down my spine at the words, and the singsongy way Lilly says them. Her body’s right in front of me, but I know that she’s gone far away. I want to scream at her to come back, to tell her that it’s dangerous, but she wouldn’t thank me for it. This is what she does–what I asked her to do. It’s not her fault that I’m suddenly filled with an overwhelming trepidation, a sickness in my stomach that warns me this reading isn’t going to end as well as I had hoped.
FTC Advisory: Berkley/Penguin provided me with a copy of Flamebound. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
December 18, 2013
Flamebound is the second book in the Lone Star Witch series. Author Tessa Adams brings readers a novel filled with adventure, dark magic and some serious sexual tension. Heroine Xandra Morgan has finally gotten her troubles with the Arcadian Council of Witches under control, when some of the council members start showing up dead. Is it revenge? Xandra worries her lover, Declan may be involved. This is novel filled with lots of struggles for the main characters as Adams begins to fully develop this world and the people in it. Urban fantasy and Paranormal Romance fans alike will love this one!
What I liked:
This is one of those books that goes from zero to sixty in less than three seconds. It is very fast paced. I liked the fact that it didn't have moments where it really dragged or felt bogged down. Xandra and Declan are quick to love and quick to engage in danger and that makes for some tense moments sexually, emotionally and magically in this case. It was fun to read and quite entertaining.
The relationship between these two characters is fraught with a lot of perils. Even though Xandra and Declan are soulbound, they have their issues. They may sizzle in their private life, but they don't really trust each other. This makes for a lot of moments when the reader finds themselves contemplating what in the world are these two doing together, but then Adams shows us in the next paragraph. That was lots of fun.
I also liked the fact that these characters were flawed. They certainly weren't you're typical hero and heroine. Xandra has a bit of an entitled aura about her. Since she does come from a royal family and has been prophesied to have great power, that might be kind of expected. But she does show a lot of immaturity in her actions in a lot of ways. Declan on the other hand is very secretive. He may be doing things for what he considers the right reasons, but he definitely doesn't let anyone know what he's up to. It made for some very interesting interactions between these two.
What I didn't like:
The relationship between Declan and Xandra was really the crux of this story and even though there are a lot of dark moments I'm not sure it was true urban fantasy. There was a lot of paranormal romance elements to it and it really seemed to stradle the line a bit too much to suit me. A romantic interest is good but when it crosses that line into being the center of the story it loses that urban fantasy kick.
This one ended in a cliff hanger which can sometimes be a good thing sometimes not. I felt like the last couple of chapters were the best parts of the book and the ending was very good, but I wanted to know what happened, but I guess in a sense that's what will keep me reading the series even though I was disappointed that more questions were not answered.
Bottom Line:
This was a good installment in the series, but not quite great. Adams continues to develop the world and the characters for this series and they are engaging and entertaining. It could have been better, but it was certainly a solid effort and I look forward to reading the next book.
What I liked:
This is one of those books that goes from zero to sixty in less than three seconds. It is very fast paced. I liked the fact that it didn't have moments where it really dragged or felt bogged down. Xandra and Declan are quick to love and quick to engage in danger and that makes for some tense moments sexually, emotionally and magically in this case. It was fun to read and quite entertaining.
The relationship between these two characters is fraught with a lot of perils. Even though Xandra and Declan are soulbound, they have their issues. They may sizzle in their private life, but they don't really trust each other. This makes for a lot of moments when the reader finds themselves contemplating what in the world are these two doing together, but then Adams shows us in the next paragraph. That was lots of fun.
I also liked the fact that these characters were flawed. They certainly weren't you're typical hero and heroine. Xandra has a bit of an entitled aura about her. Since she does come from a royal family and has been prophesied to have great power, that might be kind of expected. But she does show a lot of immaturity in her actions in a lot of ways. Declan on the other hand is very secretive. He may be doing things for what he considers the right reasons, but he definitely doesn't let anyone know what he's up to. It made for some very interesting interactions between these two.
What I didn't like:
The relationship between Declan and Xandra was really the crux of this story and even though there are a lot of dark moments I'm not sure it was true urban fantasy. There was a lot of paranormal romance elements to it and it really seemed to stradle the line a bit too much to suit me. A romantic interest is good but when it crosses that line into being the center of the story it loses that urban fantasy kick.
This one ended in a cliff hanger which can sometimes be a good thing sometimes not. I felt like the last couple of chapters were the best parts of the book and the ending was very good, but I wanted to know what happened, but I guess in a sense that's what will keep me reading the series even though I was disappointed that more questions were not answered.
Bottom Line:
This was a good installment in the series, but not quite great. Adams continues to develop the world and the characters for this series and they are engaging and entertaining. It could have been better, but it was certainly a solid effort and I look forward to reading the next book.
December 3, 2013
This is the second book in the Lone Star Witch series and follows on from the previous offering Soulbound. It's probably a very good idea to read these books in order to get maximum satisfaction from this paranormal series.
Xandra Morgan is the seventh daughter of a seventh daughter and has been born into a royal family. This is no ordinary family though this is a magical family that helps to govern witches and wizards. Xandras birth was foretold and it's always been belived that she is destined to possess great power. None of that amazing power showed up though and she felt a failure until she met Declan Chumomisto a greatly feared Warlock. The connection between them was so intense that Xandras powers were awakened and now the couple are Soulbound.
Xandras has recently been targeted by the Arcadian Council of Witches, Wizards and Warlocks and is still reeling from the horrific events that led to young women that looked like her being brutally raped and murdered. Although the murderer is awaiting trial Xandra and Declan aren't quite out of the woods yet. Still unsure who to trust the couple have to tread carefully and the intense and new feelings between them only add to Xandras angst. Knowing Declan wants revenge on the council causes Xandra to fear that he might take a step too far and use dark magic.
Xandra is asked by a local detective if she knows anything about a local childs disappearance and uncovers an evil plot to harness blood magic. When councillors start turning up dead and Declan becomes evasive what's Xandra to think? He's admitted to wanting them dead and then disappears only to turn up covered in blood! Have her worse fears become reality and Declan given in to his dark side? Or is something far more sinister about to come calling?
Wow, what a fascinating read! Full of magic, mystery,suspense and did I mention holy hotness? This book ticks all the boxes. From beginning to end the reader is in for a fast paced ride with lots of twists and turns. It's a very sexy read with the passionate couple barely able to keep their hands off each other and yet we are treated to odd moments of humour- clothes inside out! Not to mention genuine moments of sadness as the author wrung emotion from certain situations.
I was truly captivated until the end and couldn't read this tale fast enough. So much going on and I'm sure that there will be even more to come from this very talented and original author.
Xandra Morgan is the seventh daughter of a seventh daughter and has been born into a royal family. This is no ordinary family though this is a magical family that helps to govern witches and wizards. Xandras birth was foretold and it's always been belived that she is destined to possess great power. None of that amazing power showed up though and she felt a failure until she met Declan Chumomisto a greatly feared Warlock. The connection between them was so intense that Xandras powers were awakened and now the couple are Soulbound.
Xandras has recently been targeted by the Arcadian Council of Witches, Wizards and Warlocks and is still reeling from the horrific events that led to young women that looked like her being brutally raped and murdered. Although the murderer is awaiting trial Xandra and Declan aren't quite out of the woods yet. Still unsure who to trust the couple have to tread carefully and the intense and new feelings between them only add to Xandras angst. Knowing Declan wants revenge on the council causes Xandra to fear that he might take a step too far and use dark magic.
Xandra is asked by a local detective if she knows anything about a local childs disappearance and uncovers an evil plot to harness blood magic. When councillors start turning up dead and Declan becomes evasive what's Xandra to think? He's admitted to wanting them dead and then disappears only to turn up covered in blood! Have her worse fears become reality and Declan given in to his dark side? Or is something far more sinister about to come calling?
Wow, what a fascinating read! Full of magic, mystery,suspense and did I mention holy hotness? This book ticks all the boxes. From beginning to end the reader is in for a fast paced ride with lots of twists and turns. It's a very sexy read with the passionate couple barely able to keep their hands off each other and yet we are treated to odd moments of humour- clothes inside out! Not to mention genuine moments of sadness as the author wrung emotion from certain situations.
I was truly captivated until the end and couldn't read this tale fast enough. So much going on and I'm sure that there will be even more to come from this very talented and original author.
June 4, 2018
Good storyline, character development and premise. I am sad that there are only two to the series and I hope that Ms. Adams creates a 3rd soon but this one ended in 2013 . . . Now I shall start her other series.
December 4, 2017
First book in series much better. In this book, main character seems to be a bit of an idiot consistently.
January 13, 2018
Loved this one also. Awesome author.
August 11, 2018
Too much blah, blah, blah. I like this author...but this book was awful!
October 25, 2024
Less scarring than the first, also less enjoyable?
I still don’t understand the cowboy boots thing.
I still don’t understand the cowboy boots thing.
July 6, 2014
Xandra Morgan might be a witch from a royal family, but she recently found out that she has had a target on her back since birth from the Arcadian Council of Witches and they are fighting with deadly aim. Having survived the last attempt, Xandra was hoping for some down time to just be a business owner and to come to terms with her gift, which just opened up and to find a balance with her new boyfriend, Declan, a really fierce and dark warlock. But it seems like that just isn’t in the cards.
Declan Chumomisto wasn’t happy at first about being soulbound with Xandra, but now that they are a couple and Declan has seen just who and what she really is, he can’t imagine not being with her. In fact, he wants nothing more than to kill each and every one of the Council which tied them together, without thought or warning, when they were so young. The only thing really stopping him is Xandra herself, who doesn’t want an out and out war with the Council. However, it seems someone else might have beaten Declan to the punch.
Xandra is drawn in to a search for a missing little girl who it turns out might have close to the same powers she does. At the same time her powers are drawing her to the dead bodies of several Council members. The question is, who is getting past the Council members’ security and killing them in such horrible manner? Xandra can’t believe that Declan is doing this, even if it seems like he is the only one who could bypass all the levels of security to get to them. Xandra and Declan team up to solve the murders, even if Xandra can tell that Declan isn’t telling her something. If that isn’t enough, Xandra gets an emergency call from home about a serious illness that has attacked one of her family members. It soon becomes clear that everything Xandra and Declan have been working on all have a single person behind them, and that Xandra and her family might be next on the hit list. Can Declan and Xandra find out who is behind this before they lose anyone else? Or have the spells been cast and all anyone can do is hope to defend?
Xandra and Declan found love as they defeated a Council plot to kill them, now can they keep that love as someone kills the Council, one by one, and targets Xandra and her family? Flamebound takes Xandra and Declan on their next path to defeat those that are determined to end their relationship before it gets a chance to take hold. After reading how Xandra and Declan came together and having a firm hate towards the Council for how they meddled, I was still a bit shocked to see how several of them died. The very viciousness was more than I think even Declan would do, he just wants them punished for what they did. I really loved watching as Xandra tried to use her powers to save a young girl who was being used for evil purposes. When it turned out that those purposes actually focused on Xandra and her family with deadly accuracy, I wanted Declan and Xandra to not only find that person but to make them suffer. When that person behind it all came to be known, I was a bit shocked and would have never picked that person or the reason behind it all. On top of an excellent plot, I loved watching as Xandra and Declan fell even deeper in love and seemed to understand each other, their individual powers and knew that while their continued path won’t be easy, it will be a passion filled one.
Flamebound is full of deadly suspense and red hot passions with a great twist of clues that kept me guessing until the very last page was turned. I didn’t want to stop reading from the first chapter until the back cover was closed. For all that I have said here, and so much that I wanted to say but couldn’t, I Joyfully Recommend Flamebound as a must read and a keeper series. This is one series that I believe should be read in order because so much happens in each book and it builds upon each book.
This book was reviewed by Jo for Joyfully Reviewed (JR), and was provided by the publisher/author at no cost to JR for the purpose of being reviewed.
Declan Chumomisto wasn’t happy at first about being soulbound with Xandra, but now that they are a couple and Declan has seen just who and what she really is, he can’t imagine not being with her. In fact, he wants nothing more than to kill each and every one of the Council which tied them together, without thought or warning, when they were so young. The only thing really stopping him is Xandra herself, who doesn’t want an out and out war with the Council. However, it seems someone else might have beaten Declan to the punch.
Xandra is drawn in to a search for a missing little girl who it turns out might have close to the same powers she does. At the same time her powers are drawing her to the dead bodies of several Council members. The question is, who is getting past the Council members’ security and killing them in such horrible manner? Xandra can’t believe that Declan is doing this, even if it seems like he is the only one who could bypass all the levels of security to get to them. Xandra and Declan team up to solve the murders, even if Xandra can tell that Declan isn’t telling her something. If that isn’t enough, Xandra gets an emergency call from home about a serious illness that has attacked one of her family members. It soon becomes clear that everything Xandra and Declan have been working on all have a single person behind them, and that Xandra and her family might be next on the hit list. Can Declan and Xandra find out who is behind this before they lose anyone else? Or have the spells been cast and all anyone can do is hope to defend?
Xandra and Declan found love as they defeated a Council plot to kill them, now can they keep that love as someone kills the Council, one by one, and targets Xandra and her family? Flamebound takes Xandra and Declan on their next path to defeat those that are determined to end their relationship before it gets a chance to take hold. After reading how Xandra and Declan came together and having a firm hate towards the Council for how they meddled, I was still a bit shocked to see how several of them died. The very viciousness was more than I think even Declan would do, he just wants them punished for what they did. I really loved watching as Xandra tried to use her powers to save a young girl who was being used for evil purposes. When it turned out that those purposes actually focused on Xandra and her family with deadly accuracy, I wanted Declan and Xandra to not only find that person but to make them suffer. When that person behind it all came to be known, I was a bit shocked and would have never picked that person or the reason behind it all. On top of an excellent plot, I loved watching as Xandra and Declan fell even deeper in love and seemed to understand each other, their individual powers and knew that while their continued path won’t be easy, it will be a passion filled one.
Flamebound is full of deadly suspense and red hot passions with a great twist of clues that kept me guessing until the very last page was turned. I didn’t want to stop reading from the first chapter until the back cover was closed. For all that I have said here, and so much that I wanted to say but couldn’t, I Joyfully Recommend Flamebound as a must read and a keeper series. This is one series that I believe should be read in order because so much happens in each book and it builds upon each book.
This book was reviewed by Jo for Joyfully Reviewed (JR), and was provided by the publisher/author at no cost to JR for the purpose of being reviewed.
December 2, 2013
MiscJoy: I read Soulbound (Lone Star Witch #1) a year ago and left that story quite conflicted. When Flamebound came up for review, I hoped that some of the issues I had with the first story would smooth out within a now established world. It didn’t quite work out that way for me. For the most part, I enjoyed the story. The action kept moving at a brisk pace and the relationship dynamics between Xandra and Declan lead to some realistic give-and-take growth on both their parts. However, some of the key plot elements didn’t work well for me and in the end, I was left feeling like I’d been cheated out of what could have been a really great storyline.
Cass: I didn’t leave Soulbound feeling conflicted – I rather liked it. Though my main takeaway from it a year later was the glorious lack of a love triangle. (Come, MiscJoy! Bask in the wondrous absence of the genre’s obligatory love triangle!) Well, that and the high chance of political intrigue. Are Xandra’s family evil despots? Or mindless figureheads backed by a murderous clandestine agency?
Sadly, Flamebound failed to deliver the dynamic plot I wanted. It was an engaging enough read, but ultimately unsatisfying. Like Chinese food. Though it was delicious while it lasted, I was hungry again as soon as I finished. AND they forgot my fortune cookie!
MiscJoy: LOL! What a perfect description! Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed Soulbound but I felt a lack of cohesion in some of the basic storytelling elements which seemed to present again in Flamebound. Ultimately, for me, it comes down to the fact that I enjoy Adams’ writing style and I can forgive a weak plot when I like how a writer writes. Adams sets a blazing pace with the narrative and doesn’t shy away from dragging her characters through hell. I mean, hello? As a magical empath, Xandra is inexplicably drawn to murder scenes that take place within some proximity to her whereby she then psychically experiences the victim’s violent death. That makes for some tough scenes. In the first book, she experienced multiple psychic rapes and various other forms of torture. Although Flamebound doesn’t have more of the psychic rapes, given Xandra’s magical ability, you gotta know there will be violent murder and you’re gonna read about it as Xandra experiences it.
I think Adams is great at creating some dynamic primary characters and exploring relationship dynamics. My favorite aspect to this series is the relationship between Xandra and Declan. Here we have two very powerful characters. Declan, who is the most powerful warlock ever and knows it and has the alpha-male personality to go with it. Xandra, who is likely going to be the most powerful witch ever and doesn’t have a clue but is catching on fast. Do you know what I liked even more than the glorious absence of a love triangle? The absence of relationship melodrama and angst. These two characters wanted to be together, and so they were together. None of that wishy-washy, back-and-forth game playing. They actually communicated and worked their issues out. I found it refreshing. On the other end, I still don’t feel like Xandra’s family or the location of Ipswitch have been fully integrated into the series. The connections to these important secondary characters and locations just don’t feel complete and instead come across as rather one dimensional.
Cass: I agree that Adams’ strengths are in the romance. The relationship between Declan and Xandra is handled perfectly from start to finish. Didn’t set off any of my “this is a DV relationship” alarm bells! Which is tragically rare in the genre...
Read the complete joint review at The Book Pushers: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/12/02/...
Cass: I didn’t leave Soulbound feeling conflicted – I rather liked it. Though my main takeaway from it a year later was the glorious lack of a love triangle. (Come, MiscJoy! Bask in the wondrous absence of the genre’s obligatory love triangle!) Well, that and the high chance of political intrigue. Are Xandra’s family evil despots? Or mindless figureheads backed by a murderous clandestine agency?
Sadly, Flamebound failed to deliver the dynamic plot I wanted. It was an engaging enough read, but ultimately unsatisfying. Like Chinese food. Though it was delicious while it lasted, I was hungry again as soon as I finished. AND they forgot my fortune cookie!
MiscJoy: LOL! What a perfect description! Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed Soulbound but I felt a lack of cohesion in some of the basic storytelling elements which seemed to present again in Flamebound. Ultimately, for me, it comes down to the fact that I enjoy Adams’ writing style and I can forgive a weak plot when I like how a writer writes. Adams sets a blazing pace with the narrative and doesn’t shy away from dragging her characters through hell. I mean, hello? As a magical empath, Xandra is inexplicably drawn to murder scenes that take place within some proximity to her whereby she then psychically experiences the victim’s violent death. That makes for some tough scenes. In the first book, she experienced multiple psychic rapes and various other forms of torture. Although Flamebound doesn’t have more of the psychic rapes, given Xandra’s magical ability, you gotta know there will be violent murder and you’re gonna read about it as Xandra experiences it.
I think Adams is great at creating some dynamic primary characters and exploring relationship dynamics. My favorite aspect to this series is the relationship between Xandra and Declan. Here we have two very powerful characters. Declan, who is the most powerful warlock ever and knows it and has the alpha-male personality to go with it. Xandra, who is likely going to be the most powerful witch ever and doesn’t have a clue but is catching on fast. Do you know what I liked even more than the glorious absence of a love triangle? The absence of relationship melodrama and angst. These two characters wanted to be together, and so they were together. None of that wishy-washy, back-and-forth game playing. They actually communicated and worked their issues out. I found it refreshing. On the other end, I still don’t feel like Xandra’s family or the location of Ipswitch have been fully integrated into the series. The connections to these important secondary characters and locations just don’t feel complete and instead come across as rather one dimensional.
Cass: I agree that Adams’ strengths are in the romance. The relationship between Declan and Xandra is handled perfectly from start to finish. Didn’t set off any of my “this is a DV relationship” alarm bells! Which is tragically rare in the genre...
Read the complete joint review at The Book Pushers: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/12/02/...
January 3, 2014
Review originally posted on my blog: A Book Obsession..
One of the best things about this series is that the characters are seriously flawed, but endearing all the same. As much as I like Xandra, she still is pretty childish in her behavior, and honestly her characters seems much younger at times than the twenty-seven she is supposed to be. She's just a bit petulant and bucks all authority even when they are trying to help her just for sheer stubbornness it seems. However that same stubbornness does endear me to her a bit because in the same token, she doesn't allow anyone to steamroll her. Her power is a pretty hefty one, and she's had to deal with an incredible amount in a very short time, and is still trying to find her way. By not backing down, she isn't allowing a bad precedent to be set of keeping her out of things for her own good, which I do understand. I just think she needs to gain a bit more maturity and reasoning skills in her arguments. Declan's flaws on the other hand are not so obvious. So much of him remains a mystery, and while you can see the damage, it isn't so apparent with him. I'm really looking forward to seeing Xandra continue to crack his shell. As I'll admit at first all the mystery surrounding him was enticing, I'm more than eager to peel back the layers to get to the man beneath.
I had a bit of a hard time connecting to Xandra and Declan as a couple in the previous book, and while things started to get better in FLAMEBOUND, there is still a bit of a disconnect. Things have been just so incredibly rushed, and with all the obstacles and secrets in their path, I'm having a bit of trouble catching up. It's almost like they went from zero to one thousand in a matter of days. Sure there's the magical connection between them since they are Soulbound, and I'm a sucker for that kind of tie, but that kind of need they showed/talked about seemed just a bit off to me. As I said Xandra acts rather childish, and Declan is so closed off most the time, and seems to only express his care for her in his obsessiveness and anger at not being able to protect her from everything. Sure, it's obvious that he does care for Xandra, especially when he is ripped apart inside each time she gets hurt, but he's a bit too secretive with her for my tastes. He's also too quick to hide things from Xandra and makes decisions for her despite her protests. Don't get me wrong, I do feel something for them as a couple, I mean how could I not when you consider all their VERY steamy interludes, I think they have a lot more work to do before it's as strong as it should be outside of the bedroom.
FLAMEBOUND was an absolute roller coaster of emotions and action. It was incredibly intense, and it's honestly a wonder that I have fingernails left. The highs, although far and few between as this was a pretty dark book, left me soaring, while that darkness I spoke of was devastating. I'm incredibly impressed at Tessa Adam's ability to seamlessly create such a wide range. And the way it ended? Oh my goodness! I had predicted who the culprit was this time around, but that didn't soften the blow one bit. Even worse is that there's a pretty big cliffhanger, but despite my searching high and low, I cannot find anything about another installment coming. And it would be really unfortunate if there were none in the works as I really want to know what happens next. But in the meantime, I highly recommend FLAMEBOUND as it is perfect for Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance fans alike and will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
One of the best things about this series is that the characters are seriously flawed, but endearing all the same. As much as I like Xandra, she still is pretty childish in her behavior, and honestly her characters seems much younger at times than the twenty-seven she is supposed to be. She's just a bit petulant and bucks all authority even when they are trying to help her just for sheer stubbornness it seems. However that same stubbornness does endear me to her a bit because in the same token, she doesn't allow anyone to steamroll her. Her power is a pretty hefty one, and she's had to deal with an incredible amount in a very short time, and is still trying to find her way. By not backing down, she isn't allowing a bad precedent to be set of keeping her out of things for her own good, which I do understand. I just think she needs to gain a bit more maturity and reasoning skills in her arguments. Declan's flaws on the other hand are not so obvious. So much of him remains a mystery, and while you can see the damage, it isn't so apparent with him. I'm really looking forward to seeing Xandra continue to crack his shell. As I'll admit at first all the mystery surrounding him was enticing, I'm more than eager to peel back the layers to get to the man beneath.
I had a bit of a hard time connecting to Xandra and Declan as a couple in the previous book, and while things started to get better in FLAMEBOUND, there is still a bit of a disconnect. Things have been just so incredibly rushed, and with all the obstacles and secrets in their path, I'm having a bit of trouble catching up. It's almost like they went from zero to one thousand in a matter of days. Sure there's the magical connection between them since they are Soulbound, and I'm a sucker for that kind of tie, but that kind of need they showed/talked about seemed just a bit off to me. As I said Xandra acts rather childish, and Declan is so closed off most the time, and seems to only express his care for her in his obsessiveness and anger at not being able to protect her from everything. Sure, it's obvious that he does care for Xandra, especially when he is ripped apart inside each time she gets hurt, but he's a bit too secretive with her for my tastes. He's also too quick to hide things from Xandra and makes decisions for her despite her protests. Don't get me wrong, I do feel something for them as a couple, I mean how could I not when you consider all their VERY steamy interludes, I think they have a lot more work to do before it's as strong as it should be outside of the bedroom.
FLAMEBOUND was an absolute roller coaster of emotions and action. It was incredibly intense, and it's honestly a wonder that I have fingernails left. The highs, although far and few between as this was a pretty dark book, left me soaring, while that darkness I spoke of was devastating. I'm incredibly impressed at Tessa Adam's ability to seamlessly create such a wide range. And the way it ended? Oh my goodness! I had predicted who the culprit was this time around, but that didn't soften the blow one bit. Even worse is that there's a pretty big cliffhanger, but despite my searching high and low, I cannot find anything about another installment coming. And it would be really unfortunate if there were none in the works as I really want to know what happens next. But in the meantime, I highly recommend FLAMEBOUND as it is perfect for Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance fans alike and will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
December 10, 2013
1.5 stars
I wasn’t too far into Flamebound by Tessa Adams before I realized that I would be better off reading the first book, Soulbound, beforehand. I’m not sure quite how to characterize this book. There is a central romance between the MC and her love interest, but throughout the book, the romance seems to come in second to the action and overall plotline of the novel.
If you’ve read book 1, you know that there was some hocus pocus going on with making Xandra and Declan bound to one another. Xandra has lived her life with dormant magical powers her whole life and when Declan reappears in her life, they come alive with a vengeance. I’m not a huge fan of the “fated mates” trope, and this book didn’t do that particular trope any real favors.Xandra is taken aback by Declan’s thirst for revenge against the Council for attempting to kill her, but then again, she’s only been with him for 8 days. I’ll use a quote to demonstrate why I’ll never be sold on Declan.
“Besides, I’m alive. I’m whole.” -Xandra
“But that’s it. You’ll never be whole again, at least not in the way you were.” – Declan
Doesn’t he sound like a prize ladies? Part of Xandra’s powers is the ability to relive the last moments of someone’s death. In Soulbound, a handful of women were raped and murdered because they had the misfortune to resemble Xandra , and then Xandragot to relive those last horrid moments in addition to being physically beaten by a man who worked for the Arcadian Council of Witches, Wizards and Warlocks. So she’s stuck with someone that thinks she’s damaged goods. Or tainted. Or you know, not whole. Anyways, that right there kind of sunk the book for me.
Moving on, Xandra has been asked to trace the whereabouts of a missing girl by her policeman friend, Nate. Against her better judgment, Xandra decides to see if she can find out where Shelby is being held. Before she can delve further into the girl’s disappearance, her magic kicks in and takes her to the dead body of a former councilor of the ACW. Xandra is still coming to terms with her magical abilities, and she and Declan often bump heads about how she should use her powers. When they’re not fighting each other, they’re either having sex or dropping dead of exhaustion trying to figure out who’s behind the murders. This doesn’t bode well for character development and I was so turned off by Declan that I honestly didn’t give a damn.
If you read the copy from Amazon or Goodreads, it states that Tsura’s is Declan’s ex, but she’s not. Tsura is Xandra’s aunt, her mother’s sister. Irya is Declan’s ex and has a bit moment in the book, but it’s not even remotely close to being related to the plotline whatsoever. When the bad guy is revealed, I wasn’t surprised in the slightest. The book is action packed and moves quickly, but at that point, I just wanted the novel to be done. The magical system employed in the book is interesting and the world around it has the potential to be as well, but the characters I could not care less about.
- Ronnie
I wasn’t too far into Flamebound by Tessa Adams before I realized that I would be better off reading the first book, Soulbound, beforehand. I’m not sure quite how to characterize this book. There is a central romance between the MC and her love interest, but throughout the book, the romance seems to come in second to the action and overall plotline of the novel.
If you’ve read book 1, you know that there was some hocus pocus going on with making Xandra and Declan bound to one another. Xandra has lived her life with dormant magical powers her whole life and when Declan reappears in her life, they come alive with a vengeance. I’m not a huge fan of the “fated mates” trope, and this book didn’t do that particular trope any real favors.Xandra is taken aback by Declan’s thirst for revenge against the Council for attempting to kill her, but then again, she’s only been with him for 8 days. I’ll use a quote to demonstrate why I’ll never be sold on Declan.
“Besides, I’m alive. I’m whole.” -Xandra
“But that’s it. You’ll never be whole again, at least not in the way you were.” – Declan
Doesn’t he sound like a prize ladies? Part of Xandra’s powers is the ability to relive the last moments of someone’s death. In Soulbound, a handful of women were raped and murdered because they had the misfortune to resemble Xandra , and then Xandragot to relive those last horrid moments in addition to being physically beaten by a man who worked for the Arcadian Council of Witches, Wizards and Warlocks. So she’s stuck with someone that thinks she’s damaged goods. Or tainted. Or you know, not whole. Anyways, that right there kind of sunk the book for me.
Moving on, Xandra has been asked to trace the whereabouts of a missing girl by her policeman friend, Nate. Against her better judgment, Xandra decides to see if she can find out where Shelby is being held. Before she can delve further into the girl’s disappearance, her magic kicks in and takes her to the dead body of a former councilor of the ACW. Xandra is still coming to terms with her magical abilities, and she and Declan often bump heads about how she should use her powers. When they’re not fighting each other, they’re either having sex or dropping dead of exhaustion trying to figure out who’s behind the murders. This doesn’t bode well for character development and I was so turned off by Declan that I honestly didn’t give a damn.
If you read the copy from Amazon or Goodreads, it states that Tsura’s is Declan’s ex, but she’s not. Tsura is Xandra’s aunt, her mother’s sister. Irya is Declan’s ex and has a bit moment in the book, but it’s not even remotely close to being related to the plotline whatsoever. When the bad guy is revealed, I wasn’t surprised in the slightest. The book is action packed and moves quickly, but at that point, I just wanted the novel to be done. The magical system employed in the book is interesting and the world around it has the potential to be as well, but the characters I could not care less about.
- Ronnie
December 23, 2013
It seems like ages ago since I last read Tess Adams' Soulbound, but in reality it was only earlier this year, diving into Flamebound proved a tad difficult at first, but I was quickly rolling with the story that takes place just a few weeks after the events from last time.
Xandra and Declan are trying to get used to their soulbound status. It's a bit of struggle, but the two continue to make it work. In the meantime, they also work at their relationship. Declan is definitely an alpha male variety. He can seem to be a bit controlling at times and not letting Xandra do what she wants to do. Though in part, that's because she usually wants to do something that's a tiny bit dangerous. Such as finding a missing child.
Xandra gets roped into looking for a child who was kidnapped from her friend Nick's neighborhood. She is able to psychically connect with the child, but cannot get much from her on where's she is at. So there's still a bit of mystery to solve here. Plus the Council is out to get her it seems. After already having learned some pretty dark secrets about them, it's easy to say she and the Council aren't amicable. And when Council members begin to show up brutally murdered, she and Declan become the number one suspects.
I was really quite surprised with this one! The mystery elements were done superbly, for never once did I suspect our bad guy! Kudos to Tessa for that! And upon reading the cover description, I was on my toes nearly the entire time waiting to see which sister would bite the dust. And even still when it happened it became a shock. Nothing can prepare you for that kind of shock, even knowing about it before you read the book!
The action was well paced in this one! Xandra goes from problem to problem as they all pile up on her. It was a very adventurous kind of story, as you never knew what would happen next! And this Council! They are completely diabolical! They didn't play as big of a role as I had expected, but I think that might come in the next book. Or just continue to be an underlying problem for Xandra, but in no way is the business with the Council finished!
There was a good deal amount of romance! More than I initially thought would happen. Mostly in the beginning with quite a few lovin scenes! Then the relationship continues to grow and gets a lot more depth to it. We see Xandra and Declan struggle through quite a lot, and not just with the outside problems, but with little issues that are popping up in their lives. The two definitely make a great couple!
Overall Flamebound was a great read! I truly loved every moment of it, I was dying to see what would happen next and I never wanted to stop reading it! I am very much looking forward to seeing what other adventures and chaos will be thrown Xandra and Declan's way! This is one urban fantasy series not to be missed! Here there be magic and witches and wizards and warlocks!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
Xandra and Declan are trying to get used to their soulbound status. It's a bit of struggle, but the two continue to make it work. In the meantime, they also work at their relationship. Declan is definitely an alpha male variety. He can seem to be a bit controlling at times and not letting Xandra do what she wants to do. Though in part, that's because she usually wants to do something that's a tiny bit dangerous. Such as finding a missing child.
Xandra gets roped into looking for a child who was kidnapped from her friend Nick's neighborhood. She is able to psychically connect with the child, but cannot get much from her on where's she is at. So there's still a bit of mystery to solve here. Plus the Council is out to get her it seems. After already having learned some pretty dark secrets about them, it's easy to say she and the Council aren't amicable. And when Council members begin to show up brutally murdered, she and Declan become the number one suspects.
I was really quite surprised with this one! The mystery elements were done superbly, for never once did I suspect our bad guy! Kudos to Tessa for that! And upon reading the cover description, I was on my toes nearly the entire time waiting to see which sister would bite the dust. And even still when it happened it became a shock. Nothing can prepare you for that kind of shock, even knowing about it before you read the book!
The action was well paced in this one! Xandra goes from problem to problem as they all pile up on her. It was a very adventurous kind of story, as you never knew what would happen next! And this Council! They are completely diabolical! They didn't play as big of a role as I had expected, but I think that might come in the next book. Or just continue to be an underlying problem for Xandra, but in no way is the business with the Council finished!
There was a good deal amount of romance! More than I initially thought would happen. Mostly in the beginning with quite a few lovin scenes! Then the relationship continues to grow and gets a lot more depth to it. We see Xandra and Declan struggle through quite a lot, and not just with the outside problems, but with little issues that are popping up in their lives. The two definitely make a great couple!
Overall Flamebound was a great read! I truly loved every moment of it, I was dying to see what would happen next and I never wanted to stop reading it! I am very much looking forward to seeing what other adventures and chaos will be thrown Xandra and Declan's way! This is one urban fantasy series not to be missed! Here there be magic and witches and wizards and warlocks!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
September 4, 2016
Tessa Adams’ second book in her Lonestar Witches series, Flamebound, had promise for me. I absolutely adored the blurb, but when I actually got to the meat of the book, I was left feeling meh. I was actually kinda geeked about the whole love-triangle thing with Xandra, Declan and another of Declan’s ex-girlfriends, and this trope managed to materialize for a hot minute.
I did receive an ARC of this title, so I’m hoping that several things that made me cringe were taken care of with a last pass prior to publishing. I also wasn’t keen on Xandra’s voice. She seemed whinier than in the previous book. More needy, dependent on Declan. I can see where it would be integral to the plot, to create this co-dependence to strengthen the soulbond. I just wasn’t a fan.
I did absolutely adore several things about this title. The first was the way Ms. Adams crafted the very dimensional conflict in the title. We were treated to conflict at every turn. Seriously. Xandra’s ‘gift’ for finding dead people hauled her to some gristly scenes. A new ‘talent’ for reaching people in trouble – especially a small girl named Shelby – provided some delicious tension between Xandra and Declan. The conflict is layered so well that I didn’t actually know who the bad guy was until very nearly the end. I may have missed a clue earlier on, but it was one of those OHMYGOSHNOFREAKIN’WAY things. Also, I still want Nate to get a HEA.
I thought that the way Xandra and Declan’s relationship evolved was super fast, I thought it was a natural progression and there were natural reactions to different situations. Well, as natural as it can get for witches and all the crazy stuff going on. This was one of the most endearing things about the story for me. It wasn’t all wham-bam, I love you, man. The characters actually grew and evolved.
Ms. Adams did an excellent job writing in first person point-of-view, as well. I think the fact that Xandra and Declan are soulbound helped with understanding Declan better. Excellent plot device. We got to get a bit of insight about Declan through their bond versus outside observation-only.
I have to talk about broody alpha-male Declan. I thought he was positively delicious throughout the story. I thought that in the first book he was a little too wishy-washy. I needed him to take a stand. He definitely did that in Flamebound. I loved the way he was able to give Xandra the time she needed. **delete spoiler*delete spoiler**
Overall, I liked Flamebound. It should definitely be read after reading the first title in the Lonestar Witches series, Soulbound. I do look forward to reading subsequent adventures of Xandra and Declan!
I did receive an ARC of this title, so I’m hoping that several things that made me cringe were taken care of with a last pass prior to publishing. I also wasn’t keen on Xandra’s voice. She seemed whinier than in the previous book. More needy, dependent on Declan. I can see where it would be integral to the plot, to create this co-dependence to strengthen the soulbond. I just wasn’t a fan.
I did absolutely adore several things about this title. The first was the way Ms. Adams crafted the very dimensional conflict in the title. We were treated to conflict at every turn. Seriously. Xandra’s ‘gift’ for finding dead people hauled her to some gristly scenes. A new ‘talent’ for reaching people in trouble – especially a small girl named Shelby – provided some delicious tension between Xandra and Declan. The conflict is layered so well that I didn’t actually know who the bad guy was until very nearly the end. I may have missed a clue earlier on, but it was one of those OHMYGOSHNOFREAKIN’WAY things. Also, I still want Nate to get a HEA.
I thought that the way Xandra and Declan’s relationship evolved was super fast, I thought it was a natural progression and there were natural reactions to different situations. Well, as natural as it can get for witches and all the crazy stuff going on. This was one of the most endearing things about the story for me. It wasn’t all wham-bam, I love you, man. The characters actually grew and evolved.
Ms. Adams did an excellent job writing in first person point-of-view, as well. I think the fact that Xandra and Declan are soulbound helped with understanding Declan better. Excellent plot device. We got to get a bit of insight about Declan through their bond versus outside observation-only.
I have to talk about broody alpha-male Declan. I thought he was positively delicious throughout the story. I thought that in the first book he was a little too wishy-washy. I needed him to take a stand. He definitely did that in Flamebound. I loved the way he was able to give Xandra the time she needed. **delete spoiler*delete spoiler**
Overall, I liked Flamebound. It should definitely be read after reading the first title in the Lonestar Witches series, Soulbound. I do look forward to reading subsequent adventures of Xandra and Declan!
December 12, 2013
Flamebound by Tessa Adams is the 2nd book in her Lone Star Witch series. We met our heroine, Xandra Morgan, in the first book, Soulbound. Xandra is the 7th daughter of a 7th daughter, and though she was powerless for years, and gave up any hope, she discovers that she does have some unique powers. However, these powers are not what Xandra really wanted, as she sees and feels visions of terrible deaths that call her for help or to find the body. In Flamebound, Xandra’s powers become much more, and with our hero, Declan’s help, they work on helping her control those powers.
The crux of this story, besides Xandra trying to maintain control of her powers (she now can shoot flames); is her romance with Declan, which has grown magnificently, especially now that they are soulbound. They have become such an awesome couple, and a very sexy one. I loved Declan in this book, as he devotes himself to protect Xandra, not to mention show her his feelings. I mean their sexual chemistry was off the wall. I loved them together. Also, the main storyline is a series of murders against the evil Council of Witches that tried to kill Xandra in Soulbound. Xandra worries that Declan is behind the killings in revenge against council members who hurt her.
What follows is an exciting story, filled with non stop action, excitement and suspense. A major part is Xandra’s physic connection to a kidnapped girl, as they desperately try to find her. Tessa Adams does a fantastic job of putting the complex pieces together, as there were a number of twists and surprises. Will Xandra and Declan be able to find the young girl? Who is behind the murders of the council members, and why? Will Xandra survive her growing extraordinary powers?
Another wonderful thing about this series is that Adams has created a great group of secondary characters, including Xandra’s best friend Lily; Detective Nate, and her large royal family of witches. The ending was very exciting, and a total surprise. This is a great series, with a kick ass heroine, and an awesome powerful and sexy hero. I intend to continue reading this series, as long as Tessa Adams writes them.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
The crux of this story, besides Xandra trying to maintain control of her powers (she now can shoot flames); is her romance with Declan, which has grown magnificently, especially now that they are soulbound. They have become such an awesome couple, and a very sexy one. I loved Declan in this book, as he devotes himself to protect Xandra, not to mention show her his feelings. I mean their sexual chemistry was off the wall. I loved them together. Also, the main storyline is a series of murders against the evil Council of Witches that tried to kill Xandra in Soulbound. Xandra worries that Declan is behind the killings in revenge against council members who hurt her.
What follows is an exciting story, filled with non stop action, excitement and suspense. A major part is Xandra’s physic connection to a kidnapped girl, as they desperately try to find her. Tessa Adams does a fantastic job of putting the complex pieces together, as there were a number of twists and surprises. Will Xandra and Declan be able to find the young girl? Who is behind the murders of the council members, and why? Will Xandra survive her growing extraordinary powers?
Another wonderful thing about this series is that Adams has created a great group of secondary characters, including Xandra’s best friend Lily; Detective Nate, and her large royal family of witches. The ending was very exciting, and a total surprise. This is a great series, with a kick ass heroine, and an awesome powerful and sexy hero. I intend to continue reading this series, as long as Tessa Adams writes them.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
December 17, 2013
Flamebound begins with a lot of gratuitous sex which prevents Xandra from being able to focus on important tasks, like trying to find a little girl who is being tortured for black magic purposes. She doesn't have any sense of priority. When she gets a vision of the girl's general location, instead of looking for her (like any other urban fantasy heroine would), Xandra leaves a voice mail message with a human police detective, bakes, has a phone chat, has sex, and is upset when the police are too late arriving at the location. Xandra seems to be going through a sort of moral puberty that is specific to those with entitled, pampered backgrounds...in other words, she suffers from fairy tale thinking. Even with the witch council (ACW) that has tried to kill her, she doesn't want Declan to seek revenge because she wants to maintain the status quo. Allowing evil, corrupt people free rein must surely be better than change in her mind. When Declan suggests a motive, she is horrified at his "darkness" because only an evil person could possibly understand an evil's person's motivation. At the end, she even equates action with evil. She blames Declan for black and white thinking, yet she is most guilty of the same. She gets mad at Declan for keeping secrets, but she is so judgmental when he is honest. Yet she is also keeping secrets from her family, and preventing them from doing the things they need to do to protect themselves...all for the sake of the evil status quo. Xandra also gets angry at Declan when he tries to save her from murder charges, but then walks blithely into dangerous situations because she knows that either Declan or her family name will protect her. I loved Soulbound and I kept waiting for Xandra to grow out of her preachy, entitled "good girl" persona. She finally does in the last few pages, but it isn't soon enough. This urban fantasy book is really a romance novel in disguise, where the heroine is constantly flighty, helpless, and horny.
May 4, 2015
This series showed promise, which is why I went on to the second book: strong female protagonist, interesting cast of characters, some mystery, intrigue and magic, and a little mayhem.
What I liked most about Xandra, the book's protagonist, was that she had been given a bad hand of cards, and yet she made something of herself. She is matter-of-fact about the loss of her magic. She didn't have it, so she doesn't really miss it. By the time the book starts, she has entered the nonmagical community, started her own business, and really made a name for herself. She's got employees, she's got friends, all of whom see her as a capable, whole person. She's got good relationships with her 6 sibs, and is generally a well-adjusted grown-up.
She's got this mother who is absolutely convinced that Xandra is "not enough" without her magic, and keeps trying schemes to make the magic appear. The pushback against her mother was something I really admired about this character in the first book. She chooses to define herself in her way, using her strengths, yadda yadda. This shows pluck, fortitude, and integrity - all of which I admire in people (fictional or no).
THEN, in the second book, she becomes this simpering sap who is all, "Oh, my boyfriend!" and "I can't make any decisions without him!" and "What would he think if I took the day off work just to have sex with him all day! Would he think I'm weak?" There are about half a dozen sex scenes in the first 20 pages, and ... and I just lost interest. All the things I liked about the main character in the first book *POOF* went away. For a guy.
As guys go, he's worthy as the hunk of a romance novel.
Wasn't high school bad enough? Didn't we all go to college or to therapy or self-esteem camp to learn self-worth on our own terms without being defined by some guy that we are dating?
I abandoned this book around page 40-45, just disgusted. A month later, I'm disgusted enough to write this review.
What I liked most about Xandra, the book's protagonist, was that she had been given a bad hand of cards, and yet she made something of herself. She is matter-of-fact about the loss of her magic. She didn't have it, so she doesn't really miss it. By the time the book starts, she has entered the nonmagical community, started her own business, and really made a name for herself. She's got employees, she's got friends, all of whom see her as a capable, whole person. She's got good relationships with her 6 sibs, and is generally a well-adjusted grown-up.
She's got this mother who is absolutely convinced that Xandra is "not enough" without her magic, and keeps trying schemes to make the magic appear. The pushback against her mother was something I really admired about this character in the first book. She chooses to define herself in her way, using her strengths, yadda yadda. This shows pluck, fortitude, and integrity - all of which I admire in people (fictional or no).
THEN, in the second book, she becomes this simpering sap who is all, "Oh, my boyfriend!" and "I can't make any decisions without him!" and "What would he think if I took the day off work just to have sex with him all day! Would he think I'm weak?" There are about half a dozen sex scenes in the first 20 pages, and ... and I just lost interest. All the things I liked about the main character in the first book *POOF* went away. For a guy.
As guys go, he's worthy as the hunk of a romance novel.
Wasn't high school bad enough? Didn't we all go to college or to therapy or self-esteem camp to learn self-worth on our own terms without being defined by some guy that we are dating?
I abandoned this book around page 40-45, just disgusted. A month later, I'm disgusted enough to write this review.
February 20, 2015
Title – Flamebound
Author – Tessa Adams
Publication Date – December 3, 2013
Type – Ebook
Genre – Paranormal/Romance/Adult Fiction
Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
A great follow up to Soulbound, in Flamebound, Tessa Adams once again takes you on a harrowing journey through the darkest of magics and the determination and strength of her two protagonists, Xandra and Declan. They are once again fighting against the darkness and evil that is trying to destroy them and all they love. This time it hits close to home and leaves Xandra's family home destroyed and her family in shambles. While not as long or intense as it's predecessor, this book still takes you on a dark, fast paced journey that leaves you grasping to make sense of what the heck is going on and a serious need for vengeance.
Their relationship has grown stronger in the few days since the last book took place, however, it's still fragile and Xander still has reservations about Declan. Even so, while Declan's darkness is coloring Xander's magic and world, her brightness is tempering his and balancing him. It will be interesting to see where this goes and how it evolves.
My only gripe about this series is the abrupt endings of the books. The ending are always so unexpected, that it takes me a second to realize that that is all there is. No next chapter, no epilogue, just that abrupt ending. It leaves the reader frustrated and wanting to know what happened next. Since it seems that the following books are not going to pick up from the exact location of the last book's end, you kinda feel cheated. Like you were denied the last delicious piece of cheesecake... I love cheesecake.
Author – Tessa Adams
Publication Date – December 3, 2013
Type – Ebook
Genre – Paranormal/Romance/Adult Fiction
Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
A great follow up to Soulbound, in Flamebound, Tessa Adams once again takes you on a harrowing journey through the darkest of magics and the determination and strength of her two protagonists, Xandra and Declan. They are once again fighting against the darkness and evil that is trying to destroy them and all they love. This time it hits close to home and leaves Xandra's family home destroyed and her family in shambles. While not as long or intense as it's predecessor, this book still takes you on a dark, fast paced journey that leaves you grasping to make sense of what the heck is going on and a serious need for vengeance.
Their relationship has grown stronger in the few days since the last book took place, however, it's still fragile and Xander still has reservations about Declan. Even so, while Declan's darkness is coloring Xander's magic and world, her brightness is tempering his and balancing him. It will be interesting to see where this goes and how it evolves.
My only gripe about this series is the abrupt endings of the books. The ending are always so unexpected, that it takes me a second to realize that that is all there is. No next chapter, no epilogue, just that abrupt ending. It leaves the reader frustrated and wanting to know what happened next. Since it seems that the following books are not going to pick up from the exact location of the last book's end, you kinda feel cheated. Like you were denied the last delicious piece of cheesecake... I love cheesecake.
December 5, 2013
I gave it 3.5 stars
The witches on the council are being murdered and Xandra gets to witness it all compliments of her gift. If that wasn't bad enough she is connecting to a kidnapped child and is rushing to find her before it's to late.
The characters of this series take a lot of hits in FLAMEBOUND. Xandra's gifts start evolving, Declan's need for revenge is at an all time high and Xandra's family is targeted and will never be the same again. It doesn't feel like Xandra and Declan's relationship will ever be easy. They don't trust each other, their personalities clash a lot and they keep things from each other. I hope that changes because they make a great team when they actually work together and they make a hot couple. My favorite part of FLAMEBOUND? The ending. Wow, I was not expecting that. Anyone else see that coming? I was fooled 'til the end.
It took me a few chapters to get into book 2 and I seemed to have forgotten some of the events that happened in SOULBOUND so I had to catch myself up to speed. I constantly felt like the story was missing something or maybe I just wasn't into the story as much as I was in SOULBOUND? There were a few slow parts that might have contributed to the feeling of being unfulfilled? Will I read book 3? Of course. I still love what the author has done with the characters and the world they live in and I am still excited to see what will happen next.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The witches on the council are being murdered and Xandra gets to witness it all compliments of her gift. If that wasn't bad enough she is connecting to a kidnapped child and is rushing to find her before it's to late.
The characters of this series take a lot of hits in FLAMEBOUND. Xandra's gifts start evolving, Declan's need for revenge is at an all time high and Xandra's family is targeted and will never be the same again. It doesn't feel like Xandra and Declan's relationship will ever be easy. They don't trust each other, their personalities clash a lot and they keep things from each other. I hope that changes because they make a great team when they actually work together and they make a hot couple. My favorite part of FLAMEBOUND? The ending. Wow, I was not expecting that. Anyone else see that coming? I was fooled 'til the end.
It took me a few chapters to get into book 2 and I seemed to have forgotten some of the events that happened in SOULBOUND so I had to catch myself up to speed. I constantly felt like the story was missing something or maybe I just wasn't into the story as much as I was in SOULBOUND? There were a few slow parts that might have contributed to the feeling of being unfulfilled? Will I read book 3? Of course. I still love what the author has done with the characters and the world they live in and I am still excited to see what will happen next.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2014
2.5 stars
I really enjoyed the first book. This one picks up about a week later. So it is about new relationships, trusting someone who you don't know well etc. But more death, pain and problems and the person responsible is ruthless and terrible, and might not be the easy answer. So it had tons of action and crazy stuff which kept me reading.
BUT, Xandra is so extremely co-dependent. She rushes off and does things (mainly cause her magic makes her, but she does it even when it doesn't). She is too stupid to live! Ugh, usually that issue plagues YA heroines, but for some reason Xandra is racing around without regard to anyone else's feelings or her own safety. She wants to keep them all safe so she reacts without thinking and puts herself in crazy danger. It freaking made me nuts. Dummy. I don't remember her being so self-sacrificing and stupid the first time around.
There, I said it, I feel better now. So, I read the book quickly, but the character's actions just upset me so much I was mad at her for most of the story. She does learn, and regrets but her actions don't reflect that learning yet. The story is pretty dark, while there is romance and sexy times, the problems are murders and Adams doesn't hide the ugliness that goes along with murder and dark magic and the power some people wield over others through force.
I will continue with the series but hope the next book has her grow up more and maybe takes place after more time so she can grow up a little.
I really enjoyed the first book. This one picks up about a week later. So it is about new relationships, trusting someone who you don't know well etc. But more death, pain and problems and the person responsible is ruthless and terrible, and might not be the easy answer. So it had tons of action and crazy stuff which kept me reading.
BUT, Xandra is so extremely co-dependent. She rushes off and does things (mainly cause her magic makes her, but she does it even when it doesn't). She is too stupid to live! Ugh, usually that issue plagues YA heroines, but for some reason Xandra is racing around without regard to anyone else's feelings or her own safety. She wants to keep them all safe so she reacts without thinking and puts herself in crazy danger. It freaking made me nuts. Dummy. I don't remember her being so self-sacrificing and stupid the first time around.
There, I said it, I feel better now. So, I read the book quickly, but the character's actions just upset me so much I was mad at her for most of the story. She does learn, and regrets but her actions don't reflect that learning yet. The story is pretty dark, while there is romance and sexy times, the problems are murders and Adams doesn't hide the ugliness that goes along with murder and dark magic and the power some people wield over others through force.
I will continue with the series but hope the next book has her grow up more and maybe takes place after more time so she can grow up a little.
November 13, 2014
I really enjoyed Flamebound however I should have started with the first novel as there is a lot of missing vital information that is needed to understand much of the character building and plot of the story.
That being said it doesn't mean that it is not a good novel because in my opinion it was a kick ass book.
Flamebound is light on the romance but it does not mean there is no intimacy because it is definitely felt through the entire story.
There is also a strong connection to the characters since they have a more solid footing in reality. They aren't perfect and they have personal issues they struggle with through the story that gives the reader something more to hold onto as a whole for the people that are drawing them through their journey, which becomes very important.
I really enjoyed the book and I look forward to both catching up on the first installment and investing in the rest.
Thank you Tessa for a great read.
That being said it doesn't mean that it is not a good novel because in my opinion it was a kick ass book.
Flamebound is light on the romance but it does not mean there is no intimacy because it is definitely felt through the entire story.
There is also a strong connection to the characters since they have a more solid footing in reality. They aren't perfect and they have personal issues they struggle with through the story that gives the reader something more to hold onto as a whole for the people that are drawing them through their journey, which becomes very important.
I really enjoyed the book and I look forward to both catching up on the first installment and investing in the rest.
Thank you Tessa for a great read.
November 22, 2014
A much better book than the first all round. The mystery part was really skillfully set up and if you pay attention you might be able to figure it all out but it certainly wasn't obvious or out of the blue. The violence was still enough to make you feel tense but she describes it without going into the nasty gore that she did in the first book. The characters are full of emotion and drama and passion and yet I love that they actually did what a normal person does - they butt heads, brood for a bit, but then go *talk* to the other person and figure it out instead of letting one little misunderstanding drive a whole plot area. My big complaint is that the book ended really abruptly. I can only assume that she is going to wrap up in another book because there was a ton of tangible story lines that were left completely open and close-of-story reactions that I would have expected to see.
I am looking forward to the next books in the series and hope they keep getting better!
I am looking forward to the next books in the series and hope they keep getting better!
December 24, 2013
It was alright. Reading was sort of repetitive with Xandra constantly have compulsions and hurting herself when she relives other people's deaths. And the cycle continues - sometimes she doubts Declan and then when she loses her mind from all the pain/torture Declan is there to save her and they have make up sex. Can't say this novel was that great. It was a race against time to save Shelby - a victim who has been kidnapped and bloodletted, the Council members, and Xandra's father whose organs are shutting down one by one due to some magic. The only part that really surprised me was the who the bad guy ended up to be. Hopefully the next book is better.
May 29, 2015
Twisted!!!!
I really wish there had been more to the ending of this book. Just to leave it right there without tying up some stuff was just mean! I had all kinds of emotions with this one. I got annoyed with Xandra. I did finally understand, that was the point to watch her struggle with the darkness. The problem is there was no grey. Just kinda, made no sense. She was a whole lot whinier as well. And the synopsis made it look like the ex was a big deal when she is only just a very minor character. Hopefully it gets better from here. Hope there is at least a mini novel to tie this up and get ready for the next book. I really enjoyed the first book. This one should of been just as good. Hopefully the next book is way better and makes up for it. Btw the plot itself was so dam twisted it was awesome.
I really wish there had been more to the ending of this book. Just to leave it right there without tying up some stuff was just mean! I had all kinds of emotions with this one. I got annoyed with Xandra. I did finally understand, that was the point to watch her struggle with the darkness. The problem is there was no grey. Just kinda, made no sense. She was a whole lot whinier as well. And the synopsis made it look like the ex was a big deal when she is only just a very minor character. Hopefully it gets better from here. Hope there is at least a mini novel to tie this up and get ready for the next book. I really enjoyed the first book. This one should of been just as good. Hopefully the next book is way better and makes up for it. Btw the plot itself was so dam twisted it was awesome.
December 6, 2013
I'll be honest I skipped quite a bit...ok I skipped most of the book and went straight to the last few chapters. I love Xandra and Declan, I love their chemistry and all. But I wasn't sure I like read about how Xandra's mirror assault of each victims. It was unpleasant to read about them in the first book, and it's still unpleasant to read about them in this book. Also, from the parts that I did read. Every time Declan is not around Xandra that's when the mirror assault take place, it's always when he is not around. So yeah...plus there really need to be more explanation of their soulboud relationship. Although I skipped, I still guessed correctly of whom the murderer were, so not much of surprise there for me.
January 25, 2020
This book is just as good as the first of the series - highly recommend
The plot is lovely, with a few twists you don't expect. Unlike many urban fantasy novels with a strong romantic aspect, the story does not revolve solely around the love. That is not to say it isn't a key element (because it totally is) but it adds to the story rather than IS the story. Probably the best part of this story is the dynamics of the romance. They don't spend half the story angry because they won't effing talk to one another, there is no tormented "does he love me?" that fills up a lot of typical romances. Instead there is clear affection on both behalves, the romance is a partnership not a one sided affair.
5 Stars
The plot is lovely, with a few twists you don't expect. Unlike many urban fantasy novels with a strong romantic aspect, the story does not revolve solely around the love. That is not to say it isn't a key element (because it totally is) but it adds to the story rather than IS the story. Probably the best part of this story is the dynamics of the romance. They don't spend half the story angry because they won't effing talk to one another, there is no tormented "does he love me?" that fills up a lot of typical romances. Instead there is clear affection on both behalves, the romance is a partnership not a one sided affair.
5 Stars
July 26, 2016
For me, this is almost a perfect romance tale. No triangle, no stupid miscommunications, no juvenile jealousy. Just two adults committed to each other and their path to make it work. The rest of the story is a little more patchy. My first issue is kind of a rare one in a sequel. I think I needed a little MORE recapping of some of the "world" details from book 1. I needed refreshing on the details of Declan and Xanda's history and the soulbinding to really help this book make sense. I also feel like there were big holes left in the plot. Does Xandra's father get better? What did the aunt need Shelby for? Maybe a third book will answer those questions.
September 9, 2014
I'm not generally a fan of romance novels but this one, the sequel to "Soulbound" is a combination of romance and fantasy. It's about a young woman who belongs to a very powerful ruling family of witches and warlocks that is under attack from unknown individual(s). Someone wants to change the order of power in the witching community by committing gruesome murders of key members. The main character, Xandra, and her soulbound hunky lover find time between ridiculously continuous sessions of steamy lovemaking to solve the mystery.
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