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The Binding Chronicles #2
Tormented
One choice. One bite. Two fates rest in the balance.
After the harrowing events with the People of the Night, Luna and Sebastian deal with the aftermath of his decision. In a land full of vampires, finding happiness has never been more challenging.
Their troubles are far from over. When Queen Marguerite summons the pair back to Castle Sanguis to participate in a deadly tournament, nothing goes as it should. Luna and Sebastian make their way through the tournament, uncovering hidden motives behind the queen’s request for their participation. The queen’s game is not just a competition, but a test of their loyalty to the crown.
As Luna and Sebastian navigate treacherous alliances, dangerous foes, and deadly threats, they must rely on their wits and love for each other to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
The cost of failure is death.
This is the second book in The Binding Chronicles and should be read after Tethered.
NOTE: This series is upper YA/NA and has moderate steam. There are some instances of violence, language, and mature situations. Recommended for ages sixteen and up.
After the harrowing events with the People of the Night, Luna and Sebastian deal with the aftermath of his decision. In a land full of vampires, finding happiness has never been more challenging.
Their troubles are far from over. When Queen Marguerite summons the pair back to Castle Sanguis to participate in a deadly tournament, nothing goes as it should. Luna and Sebastian make their way through the tournament, uncovering hidden motives behind the queen’s request for their participation. The queen’s game is not just a competition, but a test of their loyalty to the crown.
As Luna and Sebastian navigate treacherous alliances, dangerous foes, and deadly threats, they must rely on their wits and love for each other to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
The cost of failure is death.
This is the second book in The Binding Chronicles and should be read after Tethered.
NOTE: This series is upper YA/NA and has moderate steam. There are some instances of violence, language, and mature situations. Recommended for ages sixteen and up.
444 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2023
4520 people are currently reading
18973 people want to read
About the author
Elayna R. Gallea
32 books1,979 followersElayna Gallea lives in beautiful New Brunswick, Canada with her husband and two kids. They have dogs and cats and enjoy touring their beautiful province whenever they can.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 783 reviews
July 4, 2023
my only complain is that I get it.. she does research, she collects “data”, experiments, more research. I GET IT 😭
April 28, 2024
It was very repetitive. If I had to read “for research purposes” one more time 😆
dnf
August 23, 2024I was waiting for this book, but it did not deliver. Reasons I`m DNFing it:
- I am tired of reading how smart, logical and what a scholar Luna is every three paragraphs. Yes, I get it, she is smart, I don`t have to be reminded about it every hundred words.
- Luna is described as logical, but she is not acting like one in certain situations.
- Let`s talk about Bastian, who, from a mighty, powerful and feared Prince of Darkness in first book is becoming a mopping random dude in this book. I get it, he is suffering because his beloved is suffering, but all he does is look at her with sad eyes and is not even able to tell a truth he knows - Luna has to come by herself to conclusions. Also, this `tell her the truth` is happening in 3 or 4 chapters and I didn`t enjoy that.
I liked the first book; the pace was good, there actually were events that happened, the chemistry between the characters was on point. I don`t know if Tormented is structured as a transitional book in the trilogy (aka second book syndrome), but I am not enjoying the story, the character development or the vibe.
- I am tired of reading how smart, logical and what a scholar Luna is every three paragraphs. Yes, I get it, she is smart, I don`t have to be reminded about it every hundred words.
- Luna is described as logical, but she is not acting like one in certain situations.
- Let`s talk about Bastian, who, from a mighty, powerful and feared Prince of Darkness in first book is becoming a mopping random dude in this book. I get it, he is suffering because his beloved is suffering, but all he does is look at her with sad eyes and is not even able to tell a truth he knows - Luna has to come by herself to conclusions. Also, this `tell her the truth` is happening in 3 or 4 chapters and I didn`t enjoy that.
I liked the first book; the pace was good, there actually were events that happened, the chemistry between the characters was on point. I don`t know if Tormented is structured as a transitional book in the trilogy (aka second book syndrome), but I am not enjoying the story, the character development or the vibe.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2024
If I ever read “kiss and kiss and kiss” again it will be too soon. I’d rather trip and die, die, die.
The story is nice, I just found it predictable and the use of palilogias was too much. It felt unrefined…? It just wasn’t for me.
The story is nice, I just found it predictable and the use of palilogias was too much. It felt unrefined…? It just wasn’t for me.
February 22, 2025
May this type of mother in law never find me .
July 7, 2023
✨ ARC review ✨
i received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
i loved getting to experience more of sebastian and luna’s world and seeing the love they have for each other grow! there were a couple times the story seemed a little rushed but other than that it still kept me on my toes and i cannot wait for the third book!
i received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
i loved getting to experience more of sebastian and luna’s world and seeing the love they have for each other grow! there were a couple times the story seemed a little rushed but other than that it still kept me on my toes and i cannot wait for the third book!
January 19, 2024
It's good, but lacking all steaminess (0 spice). Sometimes the author's descriptor words repeat as well but I am really enjoying the plot. I like the premise of the series a lot, I've not read anything similar.
February 11, 2025
The silliest vibes are once again perfection. I don’t know if a book has made me giggle more than this series.
✋🦇🩸🧛♀️☀️🔮
*sadly not included the video of my feet about to fly off because I was kicking them so hard
✋🦇🩸🧛♀️☀️🔮
*sadly not included the video of my feet about to fly off because I was kicking them so hard
December 20, 2023
Not bad as per se, but to a point is getting a bit tedious and repetitive.
August 15, 2024
I’m against book burning, but I’d throw my kindle into a fire over this book. The plot had so much potential but the writing felt like this was an 8th grade writing assignment.
Over all book was boring and sloooooow and it took way too long for the plot to advance. Why? Because the author NEEDED to tell us every other page that the FMC is an “aCaDeMiC” omggg she’s so smart and everything is for “ReSeArCh” 🤮🤮🤮
Also every single conversation they had could have been a solid 30 minutes shorter if they actually communicated rather than went through the whole “omg how do I tell her/him this” stage. You’re supposed to be adults. Use your words and say it.
ALSO ALSO I’ve never been more mad at the MMC! He’s supposed to be the prince of darkness and sooooo powerful but he can’t stand up to mommy dearest to save his life.
Overall the 1st book was very mid and I hoped the story would get better in the second book but now all I want to do is jump into a burning building as punishment for finishing this book.
Over all book was boring and sloooooow and it took way too long for the plot to advance. Why? Because the author NEEDED to tell us every other page that the FMC is an “aCaDeMiC” omggg she’s so smart and everything is for “ReSeArCh” 🤮🤮🤮
Also every single conversation they had could have been a solid 30 minutes shorter if they actually communicated rather than went through the whole “omg how do I tell her/him this” stage. You’re supposed to be adults. Use your words and say it.
ALSO ALSO I’ve never been more mad at the MMC! He’s supposed to be the prince of darkness and sooooo powerful but he can’t stand up to mommy dearest to save his life.
Overall the 1st book was very mid and I hoped the story would get better in the second book but now all I want to do is jump into a burning building as punishment for finishing this book.
November 6, 2025
DNF @ 38%. Audiobook narrators ok. Character development 👎👎
June 4, 2023
I thank the author for giving me an opportunity to read eARC.
To be honest, I was worried about Sebastian and Luna because of Tethered ending! However, Tormented presents an exceptional and captivating world-building that unravels a dark prophecy threatening the existence of both humans and vampires.
The story picks up right where book 1 left off, with Sebastian and Luna facing the consequences of his actions, which puts them in perilous situations at every turn. The Evil Queen demands their participation in deadly tournaments to prove Sebastian's loyalty, with each contest being more dangerous than the last, culminating in a fight-to-the-death game.
In addition to the thrilling action, Seb and Luna's relationship becomes more intense and passionate, with Luna's witty remarks and Seb's caring and patient nature towards his wife being particularly endearing. The romance is delivered in a toe-curling manner, with some sweet moments that had me giggling.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story, with the suspense keeping me guessing until the very end. The cliffhanger truly impressed me, as it was much better than Tethered.
For anyone interested in a charming human/vampire, arranged marriage, and slow burn romance, I highly recommend this trilogy. The last installment is set to launch in late 2023.
To be honest, I was worried about Sebastian and Luna because of Tethered ending! However, Tormented presents an exceptional and captivating world-building that unravels a dark prophecy threatening the existence of both humans and vampires.
The story picks up right where book 1 left off, with Sebastian and Luna facing the consequences of his actions, which puts them in perilous situations at every turn. The Evil Queen demands their participation in deadly tournaments to prove Sebastian's loyalty, with each contest being more dangerous than the last, culminating in a fight-to-the-death game.
In addition to the thrilling action, Seb and Luna's relationship becomes more intense and passionate, with Luna's witty remarks and Seb's caring and patient nature towards his wife being particularly endearing. The romance is delivered in a toe-curling manner, with some sweet moments that had me giggling.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story, with the suspense keeping me guessing until the very end. The cliffhanger truly impressed me, as it was much better than Tethered.
For anyone interested in a charming human/vampire, arranged marriage, and slow burn romance, I highly recommend this trilogy. The last installment is set to launch in late 2023.
August 21, 2025
Solid 3.5 but since good reads it ridiculous we will round up for vibes ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vampire lore mixed with an unlikely love story of opposites attract. Oh and...Luna has the worse mother-in-law EVER!
Luna and Sebastian trying to make the best of a bad situation and the queen is just the catalyst to make everything terrible.
This is not a masterpiece but it is a fun tale, definitely jumping into book three.
Vampire lore mixed with an unlikely love story of opposites attract. Oh and...Luna has the worse mother-in-law EVER!
Luna and Sebastian trying to make the best of a bad situation and the queen is just the catalyst to make everything terrible.
This is not a masterpiece but it is a fun tale, definitely jumping into book three.
July 29, 2025
Listen, I love these books but if Luna could stop being like "☝️ well actually i am a scientist i have a theory!!!" every three seconds it would be 5 stars.
March 26, 2025
Yes it's so cliche and predictable....Do I care? Nope! Am I addicted? Yep!!
June 12, 2023
I was so excited to receive an e-ARC of this book from the author, and it did not disappoint! I just love Luna and Sebastian. Luna continues to grow and come into her own. She is so strong as she learns what it's like being a vampire. That strength shows through when Luna & Sebastian go through the Queen's 3 trails. I'm excited to see what happens in Treasured! The wait will be torture!
Thank you so much for allowing me to be an ARC reader again for you! I still love that my e-ARC says that it was made especially for me! 🖤
Thank you so much for allowing me to be an ARC reader again for you! I still love that my e-ARC says that it was made especially for me! 🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2023
Tormented is the second book in the binding chronicles. I had the opportunity to beta read this book. I absolutely loved the first book, Tethered, and this book did not disappoint. The author does an incredible job of painting a vivid picture of all that Luna has to face in this book. The book kept me hooked until the very end and I can’t wait for the next in the series! The characters are well-developed and complex, and the relationships between them are beautifully portrayed. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed the first book as well as anyone who enjoys captivating vampire romance reads.
September 14, 2023
Wow this book was incredible! I loved every part of it! I loved how we continue to see the characters evolve throughout book two. I’m very curious to see where book three is about to go! I cannot wait to dive in!
March 11, 2023
I NEED THIS NOW 💳💳💥💥💳💳
March 16, 2023
INJECT THIS TO MY EYEBALLS PLEASE!
June 28, 2024
just not my cup of tea, i guess 🫢
June 14, 2023
First, I would like to think the author for an ARC(advanced reader copy) of this book for an honest review. I have received ARC copies of both book one and two.
And the suspense keep building!
This is book two in the trilogy and the story has blossomed.
We pick up where we left off in book 1. Luna and Sebastian’s relationship deepens and their bond and tether start to make more sense.
The queen mother is crazy and down right evil and we get to see even more of that persona in this book. Trials that will push the couple in the name of the queen as well as a twist in the beginning of the book keep you turning the pages.
I can’t wait for the next installment! (Due out late 2023)
Vampires
Blood
Death
YA slow burn
Forced proximity
Arranged marriage
And the suspense keep building!
This is book two in the trilogy and the story has blossomed.
We pick up where we left off in book 1. Luna and Sebastian’s relationship deepens and their bond and tether start to make more sense.
The queen mother is crazy and down right evil and we get to see even more of that persona in this book. Trials that will push the couple in the name of the queen as well as a twist in the beginning of the book keep you turning the pages.
I can’t wait for the next installment! (Due out late 2023)
Vampires
Blood
Death
YA slow burn
Forced proximity
Arranged marriage
February 15, 2025
Nothing to call home about but I had a silly time. We added some fun elements of dystopian and fantasy.
Call me intrigued but I ate up the riddles:)
I found out FMC quite annoying which is why it loses some stars.
Sebastian once again you are the man🦇
☀️🌚🩸👑🧛🔮
Call me intrigued but I ate up the riddles:)
I found out FMC quite annoying which is why it loses some stars.
Sebastian once again you are the man🦇
☀️🌚🩸👑🧛🔮
August 23, 2025
ANOTHER BANGER 4.75👏👏
Can’t really give my thoughts cuz honestly I finished this an hour ago and literally went into the next book instantly I’m already a 100 pgs in and everything is already blended together now. I’m the type of person who will have to review what just happened by the second or I will forget my own name🚬
(Side note my dyslexic ass keeps reading hamburger and skinwalker and didn’t realise until the last third of the book 😦)
Can’t really give my thoughts cuz honestly I finished this an hour ago and literally went into the next book instantly I’m already a 100 pgs in and everything is already blended together now. I’m the type of person who will have to review what just happened by the second or I will forget my own name🚬
(Side note my dyslexic ass keeps reading hamburger and skinwalker and didn’t realise until the last third of the book 😦)
April 21, 2024
Pretty decent sequel, seemed a little rushed in some chapters and the amount of times she mentions that she likes to research was a bit much but overall pretty good story
April 23, 2024
I loved the love story and I enjoyed this read and I can't wait to read book 3
December 22, 2024
Love all the ‘research’ in this book!
January 22, 2024
I really am enjoying where the plot is going with this series. I like the world building. One thing that keeps me from giving these books 5 stars is the repetitive writing. The author uses the same phrases often throughout the book and it takes me out of it. Other than that, it has the perfect amount of romance and plot. The world is interesting and so are the characters.
December 31, 2024
It took me months but I finished this book mostly so I could be confident in my assessment of how bad it is and leave a rating based on its entirety and boy did it only get worse.
I don’t know if the first book was this bad and I just glossed over it, or if it’s really so much worse, but wow was it cringey and poorly written and lacking plot. It almost reads as if I told chat GPT to write a romantasy vampire book with no spice and this was the weird AI result. Like entire scenes or statements were so weird and felt like… mocking of Romantasy? Like it’s a parody on SNL but I don’t think it’s meant to be?
Also Sebastian and Luna become so insufferable. She is so helpless and meek and he is somehow still trying to prove his masculinity and strength to her and protect her from paper cuts like aren’t you supposed to be vulnerable and confident and love each other? And the SUN SCENE omg why did SHE apologize to this man for doing something she clearly needed to do to move this damn plotless plot along, but HE was a dumb dumb and almost died? Like why was he not apologizing for that whole interaction? Why was she? My eyes were bulging. After that I proceeded to care even less about this book and plot. What’s the deal with the brother? What’s with the seed? What’s with the red necklace? Who are the people of night? Why is she so gee darn special? If we don’t know after book 2 even a semblance or hint of the plot… I will not ever know!
Sorry, I cannot put myself through 5 months of suffering through book 3. It ain’t for me. Good luck with your seed and emotionally fragile husband Luna
I don’t know if the first book was this bad and I just glossed over it, or if it’s really so much worse, but wow was it cringey and poorly written and lacking plot. It almost reads as if I told chat GPT to write a romantasy vampire book with no spice and this was the weird AI result. Like entire scenes or statements were so weird and felt like… mocking of Romantasy? Like it’s a parody on SNL but I don’t think it’s meant to be?
Also Sebastian and Luna become so insufferable. She is so helpless and meek and he is somehow still trying to prove his masculinity and strength to her and protect her from paper cuts like aren’t you supposed to be vulnerable and confident and love each other? And the SUN SCENE omg why did SHE apologize to this man for doing something she clearly needed to do to move this damn plotless plot along, but HE was a dumb dumb and almost died? Like why was he not apologizing for that whole interaction? Why was she? My eyes were bulging. After that I proceeded to care even less about this book and plot. What’s the deal with the brother? What’s with the seed? What’s with the red necklace? Who are the people of night? Why is she so gee darn special? If we don’t know after book 2 even a semblance or hint of the plot… I will not ever know!
Sorry, I cannot put myself through 5 months of suffering through book 3. It ain’t for me. Good luck with your seed and emotionally fragile husband Luna
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2024
1.5
Slightly better than the first book but I feel like still no storylines were further explained or solved in the second book???
Also if I read the word “research” one more time…
I’m reading the third book only because I want to see if any story lines get even remotely resolved.
Slightly better than the first book but I feel like still no storylines were further explained or solved in the second book???
Also if I read the word “research” one more time…
I’m reading the third book only because I want to see if any story lines get even remotely resolved.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 783 reviews