A Knotty Bond

Propositions of an Alpha #3

by Leann Ryans

I had never imagined this would happen.

Leo kept his word, seeing me through my heat without claiming me. I was the one who’d messed up, and now I was carrying his baby.

He’d told me I was his , I just hadn’t believed him, and now everything was a mess.

Pregnant without a bond, it was almost unheard of.
Worst of all, I wanted him to claim me.
He’d chipped away at my distrust until I was sure he meant every word he’d said to me. He was happy about the baby, and serious about bonding with me. I was so close to giving in…

Until he pushed me away.

It was for our protection. To keep us safe. But I wasn’t scared of his world anymore, I was scared of a world without him. Of raising our baby on my own…

He tried to break my heart to make me leave, but I was stronger than he thought . He’d said I’d be his forever, and I have to decide if I can forgive him to seal our deal with A Knotty Bond.

***This is the final book in Propositions of an The Claiming of Cadence.

Genres: Omegaverse, Romance

294 pages, Paperback

Published July 9, 2023

About the author

Wife and mother of four, my days have been reduced to begging for the littlest to sleep so I can have time to write my books. I'm blaming my reduced schedule on Cupcake.
Facebook is the best place to find me, or you can sign up for my newsletter here (https://leannryans.com) to keep up with current and upcoming projects as well as special promotions and such, or find me on Ream!

I grew up on Sci-fi and Fantasy books with some of my favorite authors being Anne McCaffery and Mercedes Lackey. In 2013 I discovered paranormal romance and delved into a whole new world. After reading Omegaverse stories from Addison Cain and Nora Ash, I had the idea for The Omega Prize and decided to take a shot at writing a book of my own. The beginning was rough, it took two months to write the first five chapters, but as my 2019 New Year’s resolution I said I was going to finish the story and committed to writing every day. It didn't take long for the book to begin telling itself, and from there I just kept going.

All of my books are Omegaverse, but they span settings from Sci-Fi, dystopian, and historical barbarians. There is even a small-town Enemies to Lovers Romance story in there. They main contain dark elements but I wouldn't call them dark romance since my alphas tend to be a little mushy in the center. I promise there's always a HEA.

Reviews

[Kelly_Reads_Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cadence and Leo’s story was fabulous. Filled with chaos and misunderstanding but always so much drama.
There was so much heartbreak 💔 in this final story, the struggles and loss that this couple experienced was devastating at times. Each of them trying to do the right thing but hurting each other with their actions.
Great finale to this series!

[kymagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omega Cadence (h) must turn to alpha Leo (H) to help see her through her first heat, and even though Leo wants nothing more than to bite and claim Cadence, thereby binding her to him, he cares too much for her to claim her until she's ready to give herself and her heart to him. Cadence finds herself unexpectedly pregnant with Leo's child, even though they don't have a bond. Despite Cadence's initial doubts about fully accepting Leo and his lifestyle, her fear of becoming a broken omega like her mother, and the dangers they face due to Leo's involvement in a mob family, Leo convinces her of his love and commitment to her and their unborn child. However, just as Cadence realizes the extent of her own feelings for Leo, his protective instincts drive him to push Cadence away from the danger his lifestyle poses, leaving her torn between her feelings and the fear of raising their baby alone. There's so much growth and chemistry between Cadence and Leo throughout the series, and their emotions are palpable in every scene, particularly as they both deal with their own pain and angst. A great ending to the trilogy that has seen Cadence and Leo grow together and face challenges that test their bond.

[Angel Roo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great ending to Cadence and Leo's story.

Lots of angst, drama, heat and feels.. Loved the characters and was so glad to see a HEA.

Fantastic series, and highly recommend!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part of the Propositions of an Alpha picking up where book two left off requiring her total trust he has agreed to see her through her first heat although he wants nothing more then to claim her completely, but he wants Cadence to come to him on her not lead by her heat but by her heart and need to want to be with him. Neither of them never expecting she would end up pregnant with his child after her very first heat it is unheard of but it is what happened despite the fact they do not have a bond add to that her doubts of fully accepting him and his life style, accepting and dealing with her fears of becoming a broken omega like her mother and dealing with the dangers of her child’s father being a part of the organized crime family, but mostly the feelings she has for Leo which she is trying to really accept. Leo on the other hand loves her too darn much especially now that he is a dad to put her in danger so pushing her away he feels is the past option despite the intense chemistry growing between them and their issues that they deal with from their own lives but will she allow him to continue to push her away, will she fight him, will he realize he is the best person to keep her safe, will they work through their issues before their baby comes, will he help her with her family or make her choose, will he put her before his father, will they find a balance, and can they find the happiness they both needed prior to their little bundle arriving?

[Tima · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cadence, the female omega lead, spontaneously went into heat during dinner at Leo, the male alpha lead’s, parents’ house. Mortified, she gratefully accepts his mum’s assistance to get out quick. She didn’t intend to have Leo help her through her heat but he always had other plans. He agrees not to bond her though, which she’s also grateful for.

After her heat, though, issues which had been brewing in the background of Leo’s family business boil over and he’s left with the options of asking her to abandon her teenage brother and dementia-suffering mum or pushing her out of his life. Knowing her choice, he makes it his fault to save her angst.

But he hasn’t left her life completely…

This story is dual POV, well written, and the finale of a trilogy that absolutely must be read in order. Mafia romance isn’t my favourite but I adore most of this author’s writing so have been reading along with this series. I admit that I struggled with the way Leo handled his care for Cadence - I understood, but didn’t care for, the high handed way he made decisions for her. I appreciated the way Cadence and her brother pulled together to make their situation workable. I enjoyed the erotic intimate scenes and the epilogue was beautiful.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leo doesn’t want Cadence to leave him and he wants everything to be permanent. While meeting his parents, the worst thing could happen, she goes into heat. Leo’s mother and sister like her, but his father, wants Leo to marry the daughter of someone he works with in THE BUSINESS. After everything that follows, someone is out to destroy the Galleons’ business, attacks on the different business fronts- like the club, etc. Cadence almost gets hurt and some of the men, do get hurt. There are hits on other businesses and the Galleons are trying to figure out who is behind everything. Since Cadence can’t leave her mother or brother, Leo decides to cut ties. OMG> I wanted to kick him a few times for that one. So a lot of misunderstandings and scary things happen for a while there. Things get fixed because his mother steps in. Yay for mom! Lol

Michael is upset all of the time, because he wants to have a life, and for his sister to have one, but both of them can’t because they have to take care of their mother. It is heartbreaking what Michael and Cadence go through in this book. I cried a few times. But there is at least a mostly happy ending to the book. So I enjoyed it and I hope there is a book about Michael getting his HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy and am voluntarily reviewing it. The book was so good. This series ended in the best way possible. Cadence and Leo are still going strong. This book picks up where book 2 left off. Leo commits to getting through Cadence’s heat with her and promises not to mark her during that time. Cadence finally realizes that Leo really does want to be with her. Unfortunately, Cadence has not told her family about Leo yet.

Now Cadence has no choice but to tell her family. She is pregnant and Leo has proposed. Michael did not take the news well. The only option available is for Micheal to not go to college. Someone has to take care of their mom. Cadence realizes that this relationship cannot work especially when a turf war starts with Leo’s family. He can’t protect Cadence the way he needs to so Leo does the only thing he thinks he can. He lets her go.

Both Cadence and Leo both have family issues that need to be resolved. Will those issues be enough to distract them from missing each other? I fell in love with Leo and his love for Cadence. Their families put tremendous pressure on them. Seeing how they get through everything makes this couple even more endearing.

[Malini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mates for life by MeemsAngel82

This was a long awaited conclusion...well, not long I'm just impatient, lol! This is because our author knows how to wrote a story! This was the conclusion to this duo's love story that was twisty and fun and steamy! The writing is fantastic like always and the plot is entertaining. Like the previous two books it is so obvious that these two are it for one another.

Like they didn't have enough problems now came more danger and he .are a quick and sad choice.

And thank goodness it only went so far. I love his mom, thank you very much! He was such a bonehead once again. This couple had so much heat and the are the bad st together. I understand her anger and then it was totally justified for a little while there. So wished his momma stopped in sooner. Her bro had a bonehead moment as well. But luckily it all worked out. This was a sexy journey and I usually don't do multi books but I love this author and just had to read this sizzling story. I am so happy they are in a better place and I hope we get more from this world!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written ending for this series. The author did an awesome job of writing with finishing the story of Leo and Cadence. Full of drama, love, romance, pregnancy, steam, anger, twists and turns. Cadence goes into heat and Leo helps her out without claiming her. Cadence asked that him not too but then she finds out that she is pregnant. Leo is aware and states that they will figure it out. Leo has also helped out her brother but has his own issues with his Father and being second in command to his families business. Really didn't like the way his father talked to him about claiming her. Cadence and her brother are able to pull together and help each other out when needed. Glad to read the epilogue after finishing the book. A must read plus the rest of the series. Would recommend this book .

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ash J · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the story and I definitely fell in love with the characters of both Candence and Leo. I was rooting for them the whole series. I felt like we didn't get much closure on the villain who was after Leo's business, and who actually caused Leo to break up with Cadence in the first place, I just wish there was more retaliation for all of what he did to Leo's family. I also wish we could have got a little bit more on what Michael did after Leo and Cadence got married. She was so worried about him but when he found out about his sister dating Leo, he just accepted it and that was it. Kind of weird. Anyways really good steamy and 'knotty' story just wish the ending wound thing up a little better.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series with Candace and Leo. It has so much drama and keeps you glued to it. I love their chemistry and personalities. I was a little disappointed in how Michael reacted at times only because of how much Candace let go of things to help her family. It is extremely well written and developed. It was an emotional journey in this book but the way it was written you felt you were right alongside of of the stunning characters. The changes in the story from being a contemporary to an omegaverse were beautifully executed. I loved this series as a contemporary and thought it was amazing but it changing was awesome as well. I love the additions that were added and I have happy to have read this series. It is definitely a must read and doesn’t disappoint.

[Rosie · Rating 5 out of 5]

We know Cadence and Leo will gey their HEA but how will they there?
The second book ended with Cadence going into heat and this book continues from there and Cadence is worried about bonding when she's not ready. But Leo promises he won't, which he sticks to.
But what happens after that?
Cadence and Leo have troubles from both families. This couple have been through so much and they still have hurdles to overcome but with both of them being strong and love each other they won't back down but will it leave them still with the love when both families sort their troubles?
This last book was totally worth the wait and it we still have those steamy parts we know we love this author for.
Great finish. 5⭐️+

[Caligirlkrys · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic ending to this trilogy! This book really puts one through the emotional wringer. Cadence and Leo went through so much in this book. Leo became the perfect Alpha for Cadence by validating and respecting her boundaries and becoming the partner she truly needed. Cadence overcame her fear of loss and finally let her love for Leo grow. Their time apart enabled them to realize what really mattered so they could finally have their happy ever after. So many feels in this book and I highly recommend this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Suze Prescot · Rating 5 out of 5]

The final part of Leo and Cadence's story, and the end of this impressive re-branding. Cadence loves Leo, but his life as son and second-in-command to the biggest gangster/drug dealer in town makes her more than uncomfortable, but just as she is beginning to adjust, a turf war has him pull away.
Raw emotions; love, passion - such passion - fear, anger and grief grip the reader throughout this roller coaster romance. Ryans engages us in this relationship until it feels like we're living it.
Terrific writing.

[Dyanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cadence and Leo are back, and man are we in for a ride. Things start with and bang and plenty of steam as Leo helps Cadence through her first heat. Then the roller coaster begins with one event after another forcing these two to deal with a number of things. Leo, predictably, pulls the alpha BS of making a decision for Cadence without asking what she wants, which causes more issues. Thankfully, they both get their acts together and they get their HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[zaire wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the perfect finish to a an already great series. I loved how they finally were able to get it together despite the many complications of their relationship. This relationship has always been intense and from one extreme to the next but through it all he always showed he cared even when he was trying not to.

I enjoyed reading this book from beginning to end, romance, mystery, and spice everything a good book should consist of.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having helped Cadence through her heat without claiming her left Leo more open than he'd like to admit but with his family in war, touch choices have to be made, will their ever be a chance of happiness for the pair? A well written twist filled emotionally drived ending for the couple, a great addition to the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karon Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars

The end of this series had trope I'm not overly fond of, specifically I'll leave her to protect her. I HATE this because it assumes the bad guys will immediately leave alone your loved one if you pretend you don't care about them. This story was pretty standard and I have to admit I didn't feel that the "omega makeover" was all that great. It really didn't change the story that much as the omegaverse elements were so-so. Not my favorite by this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will she ever forgive him?

Cadence and Leo are on again off again. Will these two work things out? Their lives are falling apart fast. Can their love survive shootouts, Tasia, the death of a loved one, and his father’s scheming? This conclusion of Leo and Cadence’s courtship is pack with heat! If you have triggers this may not be the book for you. I recommend this book for Alpha/Omega romance lovers.

[Nicole Deanne Veracruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I already loved Leo and Cadence from the first 2 books but this just reinforced it. It broke my heart when he left her for her protection. And as much as I hate to admit it I was relieved when her mom passed. Because I knew that was the only way she would get back together with him. And also give her brother a chance for a life.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

The final book of this series has Leo and Cadence at odds. Things are happening that's out of their control drawing them further and further apart. Leo is left with a decision that he never wants to make but his love for Cadence over rules his need to keep her close and in danger.

I enjoy this series very much. Although I really wanted Leo to grovel more, LOL. But when you love someone like Cadence loves Leo, and knowing that life's too short, I'd forgive and take him back too.

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cadence and Leo's tale comes to an end, but not without plenty of emotion. (I'm not crying. You're crying!) These characters are well-written and the emotions are tangible. There are a few tear-worthy moments. In the end, it's the perfect ending to a roller coaster of a tale. I'd still like to know what Leo's mom said to get him out of his predicament, but all that matters is where he ends up.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shell Rich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 3 is as good as the first two. Just when you think what could happen to push Cadence and Leo closer together then a baby pops up. The question is when will Cadence tell her family about her new love life and can she stand the gangsta part of Leo's life? Join the story to see how Leo finally gets his omega and happily ever after. Enjoy 🥰.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cadence has come a long way and now she's in her heat. Michael helps her and she finds herself pregnant. Then danger comes in the form of another organization targeting Michael's organization. Now he fears for his love and their baby and after talking with his father breaks from Cadence. Only neither is happy. Will Michael be able to get his head on straight? Will Cadence take him back?
An exciting ending to a series that has the reader's heart stuttering throughout!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even a bad boy can be tamed

Three books binged within a couple of hours but was worth it.
If your after something fast paced, doesn’t feel rushed.
A mafia Alpha MC, an Omega FMC who is innocent and so bloody sweet.
Nothing too dark, a little bit of this and that but nothing too heavy, just being tied up and likes being watched then yeah come get it.
Definitely an entertaining read.

[Eva · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the perfect ending to their story!! Do I wish there was more? Yes but I’m also happy with the way everything tied together. Cadence and Leo are just beautiful together so I was really happy with the HEA we get. I loved how they both were respectful of each other’s values before doing anything too. 🥺 can’t wait for the next book! 😍

Did I binge their story? Yes, yes I did because the series was super easy to read.

[Rachel Stephens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cadence and Leo's Conclusion
This book picks up right where book 2 left off, with Cadence going into her heat.
Filled with different emtions, spice, and more.
Their relationship went through so many ups and downs in this book. I enjoyed seeing the growth in both characters and the chemistry between them.
What a great ending to their story!!!

[JammieDodger · Rating 5 out of 5]

A satisfying conclusion!

This was the final book of the trilogy - it was great to see Cadence and Leo get their HEA. Navigating Cadence's pregnancy and further family drama (on both sides) added some complications, but with additional spice. It did not disappoint!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jackie Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one felt longer then the other 2 previous books. I loved how these 2 finally come together. Leo is the perfect Alpha and I love how much he loved Cadence. I loved how much angst this one has! Cadence keeps going back and forth for so much of the book and Leo is just so protective of her. It was such a good book!.

[Lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was great to read the happy ever after of these great and strong characters. After all of our omega's hang-ups with this relationship, Leo wouldn't give up and showed her that everything was going to be ok.

Loved it and def recommend it! <3
(not to mention all the hot hot spicy scenes 🔥).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.