What do you think?
Rate this book
Sentinel Wars #9
Binding Ties
They are the Sentinels. Three races descended from ancient guardians of mankind, each possessing unique abilities in their battle to protect humanity against their eternal the Synestryn. Now a warrior must protect his onetime enemy—without succumbing to his darkest desires.
Lyka Phelan is a Slayer, sent to live among her enemy to guarantee lasting peace with the Theronai. Yet she has a secret—and it could make her a slave to their power. But when a pack of Synestryn destroys her home and captures her packmates, Lyka realizes her freedom is a small price to pay for the safety of her people. So she strikes a bargain with the leader of the Theronai—one that reveals her true identity and binds her to him forever.
Joseph thought he knew better than to tangle with the beautiful, hot-blooded Lyka. One misstep could send their races straight back to war. But now he has no choice other than to help her. Forced to protect her with his life, Joseph finds himself increasingly drawn to Lyka. As they risk everything in their fight against the demons, he realizes he must convince her to surrender to him completely—otherwise she will never truly be his.
Lyka Phelan is a Slayer, sent to live among her enemy to guarantee lasting peace with the Theronai. Yet she has a secret—and it could make her a slave to their power. But when a pack of Synestryn destroys her home and captures her packmates, Lyka realizes her freedom is a small price to pay for the safety of her people. So she strikes a bargain with the leader of the Theronai—one that reveals her true identity and binds her to him forever.
Joseph thought he knew better than to tangle with the beautiful, hot-blooded Lyka. One misstep could send their races straight back to war. But now he has no choice other than to help her. Forced to protect her with his life, Joseph finds himself increasingly drawn to Lyka. As they risk everything in their fight against the demons, he realizes he must convince her to surrender to him completely—otherwise she will never truly be his.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2015
38 people are currently reading
1212 people want to read
About the author
Shannon K. Butcher
36 books1,210 followersBestselling author Shannon K. Butcher, who now writes as Anna Argent, has written more than thirty titles since launching her career in 2007. She has three award-winning series, including the paranormal romance series The Sentinel Wars, the action-romance series The Edge, and the romantic suspense Delta Force Trilogy. Her alter ego Anna Argent also writes several series with a fresh and interesting spin on paranormal romance (The Lost Shards, The Taken and The Stone Men series) as well as a contemporary romance series set in a small town in the Ozarks. As a former engineer and current nerd, she frequently uses charts, graphs and tables to aid her in the mechanics of story design, world building and to keep track of all those colorful characters, magical powers and alternate worlds. An avid bead and glass artist, she spends her free time turning small sparkly bits into larger sparkly bits. She’s rarely on social media, so the best place to find out news about upcoming releases under either name is via her newsletter. You can sign up at AnnaArgent.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
April 6, 2015
Kudos to Shannon K. Butcher for penning the least likeable female character that I’ve read in a while. I was excited to read Joseph’s story. He has been the ruthless but fair and compassionate Theronai leader that has kept his people safe. Throughout the stories we’ve gotten glimpses into his life, hopes and how much we sacrifices each day.
So… instead of rewarding him with an equally tough but kind mate, we got Lyka. We had gotten a glimpse of Lyka and I knew it wouldn’t be flowers and chocolates. She is a warrior and she was traded and left by her brother. I knew it would be tough for her to be a prisoner so I expected her to be rough around the edges. What we got instead was a selfish bitch that just went out of way to make every situation that much worse for Joseph and everyone else around her. She had way too many TSTL moments and I kept wanting for her to be eaten but one of the demons. I begged.
The redeeming qualities and the reason this is not 1 star book is a mixture of Joseph himself and Eric’s story. Poor Eric went through some very icky hellish moments with the Synnestryn and that aspect of the story made me yuck out loud.
In the end Lyka had a chapter or 2 of redeeming scenes but not nearly enough for the disappointment that was the rest of the story. Joseph got the short end of the Theronai mate pool in this one and I didn’t feel the love. I thought this was supposed to be a romance?
Way to turn off a fan from your series Butcher!
So… instead of rewarding him with an equally tough but kind mate, we got Lyka. We had gotten a glimpse of Lyka and I knew it wouldn’t be flowers and chocolates. She is a warrior and she was traded and left by her brother. I knew it would be tough for her to be a prisoner so I expected her to be rough around the edges. What we got instead was a selfish bitch that just went out of way to make every situation that much worse for Joseph and everyone else around her. She had way too many TSTL moments and I kept wanting for her to be eaten but one of the demons. I begged.
The redeeming qualities and the reason this is not 1 star book is a mixture of Joseph himself and Eric’s story. Poor Eric went through some very icky hellish moments with the Synnestryn and that aspect of the story made me yuck out loud.
In the end Lyka had a chapter or 2 of redeeming scenes but not nearly enough for the disappointment that was the rest of the story. Joseph got the short end of the Theronai mate pool in this one and I didn’t feel the love. I thought this was supposed to be a romance?
Way to turn off a fan from your series Butcher!
March 10, 2015
This is the 9th full length book in Shannon Butcher's generally excellent Sentinel Wars series. If you haven't read any of the earlier books, you would not want to start with this one as the series has a complicated story arc with a large cast of characters with each book usually featuring multiple secondary storylines and POV's.
Binding Ties is the story of Joseph, the leader of the Theronai, and Lyka Phelan, the sister of the leader of the Slayers. In an earlier book, Lyka was brought to the Theronai compound, Dabyr, to serve as a sort of hostage for peace between the two races and Joseph's ward, Carmen, was shipped off to the Slayers to serve a similar purpose. When the Slayer settlement is attacked and destroyed by the Synestryn and her brother Eric kidnapped with a number of Slayer children, she runs to the rescue with Joseph going along.
It was fun to be back in Dabyr as last year's "Willing Sacrifice" took us and there was virtually no interaction with our usual cast of Theronai, Slayers and Sanguinar. Joseph is a great hero. Smart, loyal, gorgeous and so very, very lonely. He has been massively attracted to Lyka since she arrived at Dabyr and is amazed and thankful for the opportunity to make her his. The Synestryn are up to their usual evil ways and Ms. Butcher ups the "ick" factor yet again in the treatment of poor, abducted Eric. So, there is lots of action and plenty of mortal peril as Joseph and Lyka race to save Eric and the children and explore all that smoldering attraction they feel towards one another. We also get updates on the Sanguinar (Logan, Hope, and Tynan make appearances) as well as on Ronan who is searching for Justice, the woman he is obsessed with finding and who saved his life earlier in the series.
So, what's the problem? Why only 3 stars? Lyka. I really couldn't stand her. I liked her even less than previous heroines Lexie and Jackie which is saying something. Lyka is difficult, angry, and obnoxious, with more than one TSTL moment. She only slightly redeems herself at the very end and there wasn't enough of an epilogue and interaction between her and Joseph to soften my opinion. Overall, she pretty much ruined the book and I actually felt sorry that wonderful Joseph is now stuck with her. So, while I'll keep reading the Sentinel Wars, this was definitely not a favorite and not one that will ever make it to the top of the re-read pile. It seems like Ronan and Justice could be in line for the next full length book. I only hope that Justice is not anything like Lyka.
Binding Ties is the story of Joseph, the leader of the Theronai, and Lyka Phelan, the sister of the leader of the Slayers. In an earlier book, Lyka was brought to the Theronai compound, Dabyr, to serve as a sort of hostage for peace between the two races and Joseph's ward, Carmen, was shipped off to the Slayers to serve a similar purpose. When the Slayer settlement is attacked and destroyed by the Synestryn and her brother Eric kidnapped with a number of Slayer children, she runs to the rescue with Joseph going along.
It was fun to be back in Dabyr as last year's "Willing Sacrifice" took us and there was virtually no interaction with our usual cast of Theronai, Slayers and Sanguinar. Joseph is a great hero. Smart, loyal, gorgeous and so very, very lonely. He has been massively attracted to Lyka since she arrived at Dabyr and is amazed and thankful for the opportunity to make her his. The Synestryn are up to their usual evil ways and Ms. Butcher ups the "ick" factor yet again in the treatment of poor, abducted Eric. So, there is lots of action and plenty of mortal peril as Joseph and Lyka race to save Eric and the children and explore all that smoldering attraction they feel towards one another. We also get updates on the Sanguinar (Logan, Hope, and Tynan make appearances) as well as on Ronan who is searching for Justice, the woman he is obsessed with finding and who saved his life earlier in the series.
So, what's the problem? Why only 3 stars? Lyka. I really couldn't stand her. I liked her even less than previous heroines Lexie and Jackie which is saying something. Lyka is difficult, angry, and obnoxious, with more than one TSTL moment. She only slightly redeems herself at the very end and there wasn't enough of an epilogue and interaction between her and Joseph to soften my opinion. Overall, she pretty much ruined the book and I actually felt sorry that wonderful Joseph is now stuck with her. So, while I'll keep reading the Sentinel Wars, this was definitely not a favorite and not one that will ever make it to the top of the re-read pile. It seems like Ronan and Justice could be in line for the next full length book. I only hope that Justice is not anything like Lyka.
June 24, 2019
This was a little disappointing.
Based on a few of the top reviews, I've gleaned that people really did not like Lyka. And while I can't say I was her biggest fan, she was... okay. I didn't particularly have many expectations for her, and while I suppose it was admirable for her to want to save her brother and the kids, it was also expected and not surprising.
I actually liked Joseph. In Jackie's book, he was a bit of a jerk, but seeing him in this book and hearing about all his struggles and stress as a leader... it made sense. And I think he's done as best as he could with the Theronai and puts them first (I mean, he even wanted Lyka to bond with someone else first, so he wasn't selfish or anything).
The romance was kind of sweet. I like how Joseph treated Lyka and was determined to strengthen their bond.
My biggest issue with this book was that it was essentially the opposite of intriguing. It had a very boring, predictable plot, with none of the fun side stories that usually accompany the main one. Well, I suppose it did have side plots, but none of them were interesting. I really am not interested in the Ronan/Justice story.
The plot also sometimes made no sense and felt unfinished. How was the situation with the Slayers resolved? After all this time in the truce, are the Slayers and the Theronai ever going to team up? How are Eric and Andreas Phelan going to deal with their sister being bonded to a Theronai? Are the Slayers going to accept Lyka? How did Joseph get brought back to life if he was, for all intents and purposes, dead towards the end of the story?
I also felt increasingly bad for the Sanguinar in this book- as I have in the series overall. They just never get a break, do they? It's always 'heal this, heal that' and 'help us with this, help us with that,' when they get so little in return. They are literally starving. And no one really seems to care, except for women like Hope. It is kind of creepy the power they can get from the blood, but that doesn't mean they literally deserve to starve because of how they're made- how they've been punished by the Solarc.
Basically, the only reason why I'm giving this three stars is Joseph, parts of the romance, and the ending with Vazel taking the Synestryn queen's half-Slayer son. That ought to be interesting. But this book was rather disappointing in terms of plot.
Based on a few of the top reviews, I've gleaned that people really did not like Lyka. And while I can't say I was her biggest fan, she was... okay. I didn't particularly have many expectations for her, and while I suppose it was admirable for her to want to save her brother and the kids, it was also expected and not surprising.
I actually liked Joseph. In Jackie's book, he was a bit of a jerk, but seeing him in this book and hearing about all his struggles and stress as a leader... it made sense. And I think he's done as best as he could with the Theronai and puts them first (I mean, he even wanted Lyka to bond with someone else first, so he wasn't selfish or anything).
The romance was kind of sweet. I like how Joseph treated Lyka and was determined to strengthen their bond.
My biggest issue with this book was that it was essentially the opposite of intriguing. It had a very boring, predictable plot, with none of the fun side stories that usually accompany the main one. Well, I suppose it did have side plots, but none of them were interesting. I really am not interested in the Ronan/Justice story.
The plot also sometimes made no sense and felt unfinished. How was the situation with the Slayers resolved? After all this time in the truce, are the Slayers and the Theronai ever going to team up? How are Eric and Andreas Phelan going to deal with their sister being bonded to a Theronai? Are the Slayers going to accept Lyka? How did Joseph get brought back to life if he was, for all intents and purposes, dead towards the end of the story?
I also felt increasingly bad for the Sanguinar in this book- as I have in the series overall. They just never get a break, do they? It's always 'heal this, heal that' and 'help us with this, help us with that,' when they get so little in return. They are literally starving. And no one really seems to care, except for women like Hope. It is kind of creepy the power they can get from the blood, but that doesn't mean they literally deserve to starve because of how they're made- how they've been punished by the Solarc.
Basically, the only reason why I'm giving this three stars is Joseph, parts of the romance, and the ending with Vazel taking the Synestryn queen's half-Slayer son. That ought to be interesting. But this book was rather disappointing in terms of plot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2015
Review to come, but... I've loved Joeseph all along and I had high hopes for an enemies to lovers romance. This wasn't really a very romancey romance though -and Ronan had to pull some mind mojo to get Lyka to give Joeseph a chance- and the battle for her affection really was always a battle and sort of exhausting to read. Add to that true yuckiness in the thread with the demonic Synestran adding onscreen rape of one of Lyka's brothers and this was not my favorite book. There is some more of the set up for Ronan, but it looks like his pursuit of a mate is going to be a battle too,but I am still hoping that eventually we get a book where the conflict between leads involved less hostility for a change. Some one else said it in a review, and I agree - the male leads are pretty great with a few exceptions, but only a few of the leading ladies have been all that likable.
October 9, 2023
Binding Ties
3.5 Stars
As the leader of the Theronai, Joseph Rayd places the lives and well-being of those under his care above all else. This includes Lyka Phelan, the Slayer "guest" toward whom he feels an inexplicable attraction. Determined to keep the secret that could enslave her to the Theronai, Lyka keeps a healthy distance from Joseph. But when her people are attacked, Lyka will do anything to protect them - even reveal her true identity and bind herself to the enemy.
Series note: This series has an ongoing story arc and must be read in order.
While this is a significant improvement over the previous installment, Lyka is not a particularly likable heroine and the trope is one that I despise regardless of whether the victim is .
Readers are once again immersed in the world of the Theronai, the Slayers and the Synestren as Joseph and Lyka join forces to locate her missing packmates. Similar to some of the other heroines, Lyka is reluctant to form a bond with Joseph even though she is well aware of the consequences. Her words and actions toward Joseph are often hurtful while he is nothing but accepting and supportive. This makes it difficult to completely sympathize with her predicament and also undermines the romance to a certain extent.
The secondary storyline revolving around Ronan and Justice is interesting, and I am eager to learn about whatever force is compelling Justice to act.
All in all, I expected more from Joseph and Lyka's book, but it was a satisfying read nonetheless.
3.5 Stars
As the leader of the Theronai, Joseph Rayd places the lives and well-being of those under his care above all else. This includes Lyka Phelan, the Slayer "guest" toward whom he feels an inexplicable attraction. Determined to keep the secret that could enslave her to the Theronai, Lyka keeps a healthy distance from Joseph. But when her people are attacked, Lyka will do anything to protect them - even reveal her true identity and bind herself to the enemy.
Series note: This series has an ongoing story arc and must be read in order.
While this is a significant improvement over the previous installment, Lyka is not a particularly likable heroine and the trope is one that I despise regardless of whether the victim is .
Readers are once again immersed in the world of the Theronai, the Slayers and the Synestren as Joseph and Lyka join forces to locate her missing packmates. Similar to some of the other heroines, Lyka is reluctant to form a bond with Joseph even though she is well aware of the consequences. Her words and actions toward Joseph are often hurtful while he is nothing but accepting and supportive. This makes it difficult to completely sympathize with her predicament and also undermines the romance to a certain extent.
The secondary storyline revolving around Ronan and Justice is interesting, and I am eager to learn about whatever force is compelling Justice to act.
All in all, I expected more from Joseph and Lyka's book, but it was a satisfying read nonetheless.
May 6, 2018
RATING: Between 3.5 - 4 HEARTS!!
This was a solid read. Didn't blow me away, but kept me more than satisfied with its execution, characters, plot and romance. Joesph and Lyka are definitely a favourite couple from this series! Really enjoyed it. The only downside...that blasted ending. It was okay...more abrupt than the smooth flow the story was accustomed with.
This was a solid read. Didn't blow me away, but kept me more than satisfied with its execution, characters, plot and romance. Joesph and Lyka are definitely a favourite couple from this series! Really enjoyed it. The only downside...that blasted ending. It was okay...more abrupt than the smooth flow the story was accustomed with.
March 17, 2015
A fairly solid instalment of this long running series. The actual bonding between the featured pair is getting a tad monotonous it is the ongoing story within the worldbuilding that keeps it interesting.
★★★☆ (3.5 stars)
★★★☆ (3.5 stars)
March 12, 2015
I had a hard time liking Lika and wanted to bash her over the head more than once for her stupidity with Joseph. Even there at the end I struggled with their romance. I like the series, but feel like the story ARC is losing steam.
March 17, 2015
I have not read the past couple of books in this series and quite frankly,I felt a bit lost. I did enjoy the story and I may go back and read the books that I missed.
March 9, 2015
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book
Sometimes when you are very luck you find a sleeper series. You know one that is a slow starter, good enough to get your attention but not reaching it's potential with the first book. Nope, each book builds on the other and slowly, ever so slowly it becomes a pounding, pulsating, passionate series. That my friends is what Shannon K. Butcher has done with her fabulous Sentinel Wars Series. Binding Ties is book nine in the series and a true delight.
They are the Sentinels. Three races descended from ancient guardians of mankind, each possessing unique abilities in their battle to protect humanity against their eternal foes: the Synestryn.
Only now races that have been if not eternal enemies at least cautious foes, have joined sides. The enemy of my enemy and all that. The Slayers were sent to monitor the Theroni and if a warrior succombed to the misery of his lost leaves from the tree of life, then the Slayers were the ones who would take them out. But now, the Slayers have realized that the fighting between the races has given the true enemy, The Synestryn, an advantage.
Lyka Phelan is a Slayer, pure and simple. Not only is she a Slayer but she is the sister of the Slayer Leader, a princess if you will. But her brother has decided that she will be the "hostage" for peace. She will remain with the Theroni as the Slayer representative ensuring peace.. Yep, hostage. Lyka has done her best to be an asset but she has a rather devastating secret which forces her to remain aloof.
Joseph has been the leader of the Theroni for several years and has several more before he will be released from his own personal hell. Yep, he honestly feels sitting behind a desk and listening to the complaints and struggles of many who live in his compound is a form of hell. Worse, if he can't get out his chance of finding a mate is nil. Add to that.. the ever so sexy Lyka is his own personal fantasy girl and as leader of the Theroni, he more than anyone knows she is off limits.. That is until she shares her deepest secret, then all bets are off!!
The last book in this series, Willing Sacrifice had this dark, needy aspect to it. But Binding Ties brings us back into the light. Yes, the Synestryn are not just getting bolder, they are also getting smarter, more powerful and because of selective breeding more humanish. And yes, the Slayers are struggling in the darkness and under attack but there is a lightness of spirit in this book. A hope and that makes it one of the best in the series yet.
Lyka and Joseph have a connection it's primitive and erotic. It's sensual and elegant. It's acceptance and denial. It's what couple dreams of being. It's what dreams are made of and Ms. Butcher gives us magic when with these two.
This is one of those books that shouldn't be missed. A sensual tale of love and survival..
Shauni
Sometimes when you are very luck you find a sleeper series. You know one that is a slow starter, good enough to get your attention but not reaching it's potential with the first book. Nope, each book builds on the other and slowly, ever so slowly it becomes a pounding, pulsating, passionate series. That my friends is what Shannon K. Butcher has done with her fabulous Sentinel Wars Series. Binding Ties is book nine in the series and a true delight.
They are the Sentinels. Three races descended from ancient guardians of mankind, each possessing unique abilities in their battle to protect humanity against their eternal foes: the Synestryn.
Only now races that have been if not eternal enemies at least cautious foes, have joined sides. The enemy of my enemy and all that. The Slayers were sent to monitor the Theroni and if a warrior succombed to the misery of his lost leaves from the tree of life, then the Slayers were the ones who would take them out. But now, the Slayers have realized that the fighting between the races has given the true enemy, The Synestryn, an advantage.
Lyka Phelan is a Slayer, pure and simple. Not only is she a Slayer but she is the sister of the Slayer Leader, a princess if you will. But her brother has decided that she will be the "hostage" for peace. She will remain with the Theroni as the Slayer representative ensuring peace.. Yep, hostage. Lyka has done her best to be an asset but she has a rather devastating secret which forces her to remain aloof.
Joseph has been the leader of the Theroni for several years and has several more before he will be released from his own personal hell. Yep, he honestly feels sitting behind a desk and listening to the complaints and struggles of many who live in his compound is a form of hell. Worse, if he can't get out his chance of finding a mate is nil. Add to that.. the ever so sexy Lyka is his own personal fantasy girl and as leader of the Theroni, he more than anyone knows she is off limits.. That is until she shares her deepest secret, then all bets are off!!
The last book in this series, Willing Sacrifice had this dark, needy aspect to it. But Binding Ties brings us back into the light. Yes, the Synestryn are not just getting bolder, they are also getting smarter, more powerful and because of selective breeding more humanish. And yes, the Slayers are struggling in the darkness and under attack but there is a lightness of spirit in this book. A hope and that makes it one of the best in the series yet.
Lyka and Joseph have a connection it's primitive and erotic. It's sensual and elegant. It's acceptance and denial. It's what couple dreams of being. It's what dreams are made of and Ms. Butcher gives us magic when with these two.
This is one of those books that shouldn't be missed. A sensual tale of love and survival..
Shauni
March 18, 2015
2 stars
Binding Ties is the ninth book in the Sentinel Wars series. I have to say that while it was better than the previous ones (in my opinion) it still wasn't amazing.
The plot left a lot to be desired. This story revolves around Joseph and Lyka. Joseph is a Theronai and Lyka is a Slayer. Lyka was traded for Joseph's adopted daughter to bring about peace between the Theronai and Slayer groups. How any of this makes sense I have no idea. There are too many rules with odd exceptions that were extremely difficult to understand. Then we have the secondary characters with their ongoing drama in finding their own mates that didn't seem to really add anything to the story except to extend the series arc.
Then we have the main characters. Joseph is the leader of the Theronai group who seems to deal with the administrative and creating the defensive aspects for the group rather than being "out in the field." He is desperate to go out and fight but knows that his skills are better suited sitting behind a desk rather than out in the open. Lyka is the sister of the leader of the Slayers group. She was sent to the Theronai to help keep the peace between the two groups. But she has a dangerous secret that could get her in trouble. She then can't seem to make up her mind as to whether she wants Joseph or she wants to go back home. She kept going back and forth so much that I was tempted to stop reading entirely. But anyone who knows me knows that I have to read until the end.
And what an ending it was. I was left scratching my head with no clue what just happened. Neither character really reformed or changed. They just seemed to force the relationship and feelings rather than genuinely falling for each other.
I have to say that I will probably be taking a break from the Sentinel Wars series and may not come back to it.
Binding Ties is the ninth book in the Sentinel Wars series. I have to say that while it was better than the previous ones (in my opinion) it still wasn't amazing.
The plot left a lot to be desired. This story revolves around Joseph and Lyka. Joseph is a Theronai and Lyka is a Slayer. Lyka was traded for Joseph's adopted daughter to bring about peace between the Theronai and Slayer groups. How any of this makes sense I have no idea. There are too many rules with odd exceptions that were extremely difficult to understand. Then we have the secondary characters with their ongoing drama in finding their own mates that didn't seem to really add anything to the story except to extend the series arc.
Then we have the main characters. Joseph is the leader of the Theronai group who seems to deal with the administrative and creating the defensive aspects for the group rather than being "out in the field." He is desperate to go out and fight but knows that his skills are better suited sitting behind a desk rather than out in the open. Lyka is the sister of the leader of the Slayers group. She was sent to the Theronai to help keep the peace between the two groups. But she has a dangerous secret that could get her in trouble. She then can't seem to make up her mind as to whether she wants Joseph or she wants to go back home. She kept going back and forth so much that I was tempted to stop reading entirely. But anyone who knows me knows that I have to read until the end.
And what an ending it was. I was left scratching my head with no clue what just happened. Neither character really reformed or changed. They just seemed to force the relationship and feelings rather than genuinely falling for each other.
I have to say that I will probably be taking a break from the Sentinel Wars series and may not come back to it.
March 9, 2015
In a Nutshell: Why have the heroines in this series gotten so mean? Lyka is the worst yet!
Why I Read This Book: Once I start a series I have a difficult time stopping it so I just keep reading.
What I Liked: I love Joseph. Series readers will know him as the long-suffering and patient leader of the Theronai community. He’s loyal and kind, even when he’s under great stress both as a leader, and as a Theroni because he has no woman to channel the power he houses. When Lyka was originally introduced into the series a few books back, I liked the way she awakened Joseph and that continued here. It was awesome to see Joseph in action, fighting, since in previous books he always had to stay in the Theronai city to protect and lead. This book shows a darker side of Joseph that I really liked.
What I Also Liked: I love the community of Theronai and them battling the evil Synestryn. Beloved characters and couples return here, especially the leader of the Vampires who are begrudging allies of the Theroni. Sure, the actual fight scenes are a little tedious but they serve a good purpose of progressing both the book’s plot (saving Lyka’s brother) and the series’ plot (battling the Synestryn).
What I Didn’t Like: Geesh! Lyka was a BEEP! She was so consumed by her need to be a warrior that she was willing to hurt Joseph over and over and over again. She’d been living with the Theroni for months and seen firsthand how kindly Joseph treated humans, Theroni, children and others so why she would constantly assume the very worst about him, I didn’t get. Again and again Joseph put Lyka’s needs and desires above his own and she was willing to kill him to get her freedom until the novel’s end. I couldn’t stand Lyka and wished poor Joseph got someone kinder to him. Even Lyka’s great epiphany at novel’s end wasn’t enough to redeem her in my eyes.
IMO: Series readers like me will have to read this novel but others should skip this because Lyka is a wench.
Why I Read This Book: Once I start a series I have a difficult time stopping it so I just keep reading.
What I Liked: I love Joseph. Series readers will know him as the long-suffering and patient leader of the Theronai community. He’s loyal and kind, even when he’s under great stress both as a leader, and as a Theroni because he has no woman to channel the power he houses. When Lyka was originally introduced into the series a few books back, I liked the way she awakened Joseph and that continued here. It was awesome to see Joseph in action, fighting, since in previous books he always had to stay in the Theronai city to protect and lead. This book shows a darker side of Joseph that I really liked.
What I Also Liked: I love the community of Theronai and them battling the evil Synestryn. Beloved characters and couples return here, especially the leader of the Vampires who are begrudging allies of the Theroni. Sure, the actual fight scenes are a little tedious but they serve a good purpose of progressing both the book’s plot (saving Lyka’s brother) and the series’ plot (battling the Synestryn).
What I Didn’t Like: Geesh! Lyka was a BEEP! She was so consumed by her need to be a warrior that she was willing to hurt Joseph over and over and over again. She’d been living with the Theroni for months and seen firsthand how kindly Joseph treated humans, Theroni, children and others so why she would constantly assume the very worst about him, I didn’t get. Again and again Joseph put Lyka’s needs and desires above his own and she was willing to kill him to get her freedom until the novel’s end. I couldn’t stand Lyka and wished poor Joseph got someone kinder to him. Even Lyka’s great epiphany at novel’s end wasn’t enough to redeem her in my eyes.
IMO: Series readers like me will have to read this novel but others should skip this because Lyka is a wench.
March 13, 2015
Lyka is an unusual person. I wasn't sure that I liked her at first, really started to dislike her when we found out that while she was teaching the kids to fight they were getting hurt, however when she explained why she taught like she did. I liked that she protected the kids in the only way she knew how.
I thought it was funny how Joseph had a crush on Lyka, but had to keep his feelings hidden. I loved how Lyka manipulated Joseph into giving her what she wanted. I didn't know why he couldn't see that coming, when it was so obvious. I hated how Lyka treated Joseph once she made her choice, couldn't understand why she thought it would be so easy to have her cake and eat it too. By the end I was glad that Lyka could make the choice in a way that let Joseph know she wanted him.
The side story with Ronan had me laughing, Justice will be a force for him. Eric's story mad me sad, I really hate what was taken from him without his knowledge, that can't end well at all.
I thought it was funny how Joseph had a crush on Lyka, but had to keep his feelings hidden. I loved how Lyka manipulated Joseph into giving her what she wanted. I didn't know why he couldn't see that coming, when it was so obvious. I hated how Lyka treated Joseph once she made her choice, couldn't understand why she thought it would be so easy to have her cake and eat it too. By the end I was glad that Lyka could make the choice in a way that let Joseph know she wanted him.
The side story with Ronan had me laughing, Justice will be a force for him. Eric's story mad me sad, I really hate what was taken from him without his knowledge, that can't end well at all.
March 4, 2015
Slayer Lyka Phelan has a secret one that could make her a slave to the Theronai but when her home is attacked and her packmates are captured, she makes a bargain with the Theronai leader Joseph – one that binds her to him forever in this mesmerizing paranormal romance. This fascinating world only gets better as the war rages on and the author introduces more intriguing elements and interesting characters. I was completely enthralled in this book from the very beginning and couldn’t put it down until I had read every last word and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
4 ½ STARS
“Copyright Night Owl Reviews”©
See my full review at:
http://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Rev...
4 ½ STARS
“Copyright Night Owl Reviews”©
See my full review at:
http://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Rev...
September 23, 2018
Esta historia me gustó mucho. Y eso que está llena de los mismos clichés que las otras. Pero funciona: heroína reticente y macho posesivo tienen una misión de rescate.
En este caso, la reticencia de Lyka tenía que ver con ser mestiza y no conocer su lugar. Es interesante cómo la autora se da maña para contarnos la misma historia una y otra vez, pero de diferentes maneras.
¿Qué pasará con el bebé de Eric y la reina demonio?
En este caso, la reticencia de Lyka tenía que ver con ser mestiza y no conocer su lugar. Es interesante cómo la autora se da maña para contarnos la misma historia una y otra vez, pero de diferentes maneras.
¿Qué pasará con el bebé de Eric y la reina demonio?
March 14, 2017
Besides even less of the stale, same-old-same-old storyline, Ms. Butcher now seems to be channeling Laurell K. Hamilton. Lyka can't think of anything but Joseph's cock, while Joseph's fantasies star his cock with Lyka's body and some rope as a supporting cast. No more Sentinels for me. I returned it.
February 10, 2023
The heroine is given against her will to the enemy as a peace treaty is signed between her people and the hero's. In place, the hero's adoptive daughter is sent over to the other camp. The hero, as leader of his people, is slowly running out of time, as most of his warriors are. The power inside of him is slowly eating away at him and without his bonded female, he will die a slow death but not before going insane. He's been attracted to the sexy but hot-headed enemy in his camp since day one but she makes it abundantly clear she doesn't feel the same. Though he's been nothing but kind and patient to her, the heroine comes across as nothing but a spoiled selfish brat, not the warrior she's depicted to be. She proclaims that she want's nothing more than the safety of her people yet given the chance to mend the fence between the hero's kind and hers, she spits in the face of his hospitality. She whines constantly about her loss of freedom and her imprisonment but once in the outside world, she fumbles and almost gets the hero killed when trying to save her.
In a bargain with him to give her a chance to hunt down the demons responsible and find the missing children, she offers herself up to be his mate but only for the power she'll receive from it. That's fine, that's honest. But even when she knows the hero's feelings and thoughts and driven desire to protect her, she uses every opportunity to lash out at him and make his already stressful life, even more chaotic. She was beyond frustrating. And the hero wasn't much better. I can't stand it when the hero is so blinded by the female’s beauty to see what a vain pointless creature she really is. Maybe I'm just jealous that a man would risk everything for his woman yet receive nothing back. I don't think it's fair. This world they live in is chalked full of dangers and the only way they stand a chance is to fight together so why the hell does the heroine not see that? I also didn't think there was much of a plot. It felt like the author was just writing for the sake of writing and not really caring to make the story truly mean anything.
In a bargain with him to give her a chance to hunt down the demons responsible and find the missing children, she offers herself up to be his mate but only for the power she'll receive from it. That's fine, that's honest. But even when she knows the hero's feelings and thoughts and driven desire to protect her, she uses every opportunity to lash out at him and make his already stressful life, even more chaotic. She was beyond frustrating. And the hero wasn't much better. I can't stand it when the hero is so blinded by the female’s beauty to see what a vain pointless creature she really is. Maybe I'm just jealous that a man would risk everything for his woman yet receive nothing back. I don't think it's fair. This world they live in is chalked full of dangers and the only way they stand a chance is to fight together so why the hell does the heroine not see that? I also didn't think there was much of a plot. It felt like the author was just writing for the sake of writing and not really caring to make the story truly mean anything.
March 4, 2015
This book takes place while Torr is gone on the other world.
Lyka's not the easiest heroine in this series, but she grew up diffently than the rest, with a clear identity of who she thought she was, so her reticence is understandable. What's important is that she grows and evolves both personally and in her relationship with Joseph. It'd probably be easier for some to like her if Joseph wasn't pretty much perfect, lol....seriously, the man never really makes a mistake.
There's a secondary plot of Ronan and Justice that's going to continue. She's compelled to do things and is still a mystery. Might be the next book? It would make sense for it to be since there weren't any other love interests in this book.
The other secondary plot concerns Lyka's brother Eric and some Slayer children kidnapped by the Synestryn. Most of Lyka and Joseph's story is motivated by efforts to find and rescue them.
This book includes a sample of Shannon's final Edge Series book.
Lyka's not the easiest heroine in this series, but she grew up diffently than the rest, with a clear identity of who she thought she was, so her reticence is understandable. What's important is that she grows and evolves both personally and in her relationship with Joseph. It'd probably be easier for some to like her if Joseph wasn't pretty much perfect, lol....seriously, the man never really makes a mistake.
There's a secondary plot of Ronan and Justice that's going to continue. She's compelled to do things and is still a mystery. Might be the next book? It would make sense for it to be since there weren't any other love interests in this book.
The other secondary plot concerns Lyka's brother Eric and some Slayer children kidnapped by the Synestryn. Most of Lyka and Joseph's story is motivated by efforts to find and rescue them.
This book includes a sample of Shannon's final Edge Series book.
March 19, 2015
I love the Sentinel Wars series. Every warrior is more bad ass than the one before. Every Lady has a new internal war to overcome with not a single shrinking violet in the bunch. And the demons - who knew they could be intriguing. Thanks, Shannon Butcher, for another fun ride.
June 4, 2015
What happened to this series? I still loved Joseph but the leading female Lyka was terrible. I ended up skimming through this one. Sadly I'm not excited about reading the next one.
March 8, 2015
glad Joseph got his HEA
Really enjoyed this one. Hope the Slayers are next. Can't wait to read their stories! Great love story with perfect bits of action to spice things up.
Really enjoyed this one. Hope the Slayers are next. Can't wait to read their stories! Great love story with perfect bits of action to spice things up.
March 1, 2018
I utterly enjoyed every engrossing moment in this book!!!
Made it to the last book (so far) and I was in utter awe as to how this played out. The action packed scenes were sensational, so full of detail and vivid imagery.
I loved Joseph he has been an interesting character from the start so impressive and with such potential. I couldn’t wait to see what he was made of!!
Lyka was a bit annoying I just wanted to shake her and tell her look what you have got!!!! But I loved that she worked through it and found her happy ever after for now at least.
This story was definitely a different take and didn’t follow the same sort of outline that the other installments had, there was more hard work more involvement in getting the two of them together.
All up I cant believe it is over until another installment comes out which Im hoping will be sometime this year. I loved every minute I spent with Joseph and Lyka. Cannot wait for more.
Made it to the last book (so far) and I was in utter awe as to how this played out. The action packed scenes were sensational, so full of detail and vivid imagery.
I loved Joseph he has been an interesting character from the start so impressive and with such potential. I couldn’t wait to see what he was made of!!
Lyka was a bit annoying I just wanted to shake her and tell her look what you have got!!!! But I loved that she worked through it and found her happy ever after for now at least.
This story was definitely a different take and didn’t follow the same sort of outline that the other installments had, there was more hard work more involvement in getting the two of them together.
All up I cant believe it is over until another installment comes out which Im hoping will be sometime this year. I loved every minute I spent with Joseph and Lyka. Cannot wait for more.
July 20, 2023
4.5/5
This may be bias, but I loved the female main protagonist. My favorite characters tend to be shifters, especially cat shifters. And I had been wanting to explore the slayers as a race for a long time now. That said, this still had a compelling story. The psyche of the main female could have been explored more, but the author probably had to decide to hold back due to the length of the novel. We also got to see the male protagonist outside of the sanctuary for the first time in actual action. He may have been built a touch too strong given his years of inaction. I also liked that they kept building the story with Ronan and the mysterious woman he has been tracking for a few books now. It is not the main story, but they are setting it up to be its own story soon. And then there was the little slayer girl. I loved her as a character. I would completely enjoy seeing more of her as she grows.
This may be bias, but I loved the female main protagonist. My favorite characters tend to be shifters, especially cat shifters. And I had been wanting to explore the slayers as a race for a long time now. That said, this still had a compelling story. The psyche of the main female could have been explored more, but the author probably had to decide to hold back due to the length of the novel. We also got to see the male protagonist outside of the sanctuary for the first time in actual action. He may have been built a touch too strong given his years of inaction. I also liked that they kept building the story with Ronan and the mysterious woman he has been tracking for a few books now. It is not the main story, but they are setting it up to be its own story soon. And then there was the little slayer girl. I loved her as a character. I would completely enjoy seeing more of her as she grows.
July 20, 2020
Joseph is so bogged down by demands on his time that he doesn’t have time to look for the mate that he desperately needs. Plus any possible mates that do show up the other men need for the survival of his people. But his attraction for the new truce hostage Lyka is proving to be a major distraction.
Footnote: 1) Even though I understand a bit of what Lyka is feeling, her decisions are based on erroneous information. A common problem with a lot of people, Get the ‘real’ facts not what you guess or might have been told. Do your own research.
Fave scenes: Lyka’s argument with Andreas & Joseph, Joseph comforting Lyka at the ruins, Ronan at the airport and Kyka holding Treszka.
Footnote: 1) Even though I understand a bit of what Lyka is feeling, her decisions are based on erroneous information. A common problem with a lot of people, Get the ‘real’ facts not what you guess or might have been told. Do your own research.
Fave scenes: Lyka’s argument with Andreas & Joseph, Joseph comforting Lyka at the ruins, Ronan at the airport and Kyka holding Treszka.
March 5, 2015
4.5 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 3, 2015
They are the Sentinels. Three races descended from ancient guardians of mankind, each possessing unique abilities in their battle to protect humanity against their eternal foes: the Synestryn. Now a warrior must protect his onetime enemy—without succumbing to his darkest desires.
Lyka Phelan is a Slayer, sent to live among her enemy to guarantee lasting peace with the Theronai. Yet she has a secret—and it could make her a slave to their power. But when a pack of Synestryn destroys her home and captures her packmates, Lyka realizes her freedom is a small price to pay for the safety of her people. So she strikes a bargain with the leader of the Theronai—one that reveals her true identity and binds her to him forever.
Joseph thought he knew better than to tangle with the beautiful, hot-blooded Lyka. One misstep could send their races straight back to war. But now he has no choice other than to help her. Forced to protect her with his life, Joseph finds himself increasingly drawn to Lyka. As they risk everything in their fight against the demons, he realizes he must convince her to surrender to him completely—otherwise she will never truly be his.
~~
REVIEW: 4.5 stars
SOME BACKGROUND: The Sentinels are three races descended from an ancient race of guardians known as the Athanasians, who defend and protect mankind from the demons at the door. The Theronai are the protectors whose Theronai lifemark-The Tree of Life-begins to lose its’ leaves if a Theronai warrior does not find his mate. The lifemark is a visual gage of a soul’s health, and all of the warriors suffering with the pain are running out of time. The Synestryn have killed most of the female Theronai and the warriors are in need of women whose DNA and heritage will match with their own: the Sanguinar are the healers (as well as blood feeders) and the Synestryn are the demons whose humanity has been lost for centuries.
BINDING TIES is the ninth full length installment in Shannon K Butcher’s SENTINEL WARS paranormal romance, fantasy series. This is Slayer Lyka Phelan and leader of the Theronai Joseph’s storyline. BINDING TIES can be read as a stand alone but for cohesion and history, I would suggest reading in order as many of the storylines overlap and continue in each successive installment. Shannon is an author who builds up future storylines in many of the previous novels.
The premise finds Lyka as a ‘guest’ of the Theronai. To keep the tentative peace between the Slayers and the Theronai, Lyka’s brother Andreas and the Theronai leader Joseph have inked out a plan for a provisional truce between the once combative enemies. The accord offers a member of each race in exchange for peace and understanding. Lyka was sent to the Theronai while Joseph’s adopted daughter was sent to the Slayers. Lyka believes she is nothing more than a prisoner in a gilded cage.
Joseph is in constant pain as his lifemark continues to lose its’ leaves. Nearing the end, Joseph is a man whose desire to lead his people is waning; he is tired of the battles and knows that he does not have much time left but Lyka’s presence eases his pain and without knowing, Lyka may be the answer to all of Joseph’s prayers. There is something about Lyka that calls to Joseph’s heart-something that Lyka would like to keep secret from all Theronai Males.
Lyka’s pack has been decimated. The demons have destroyed their village and Lyka’s brother Eric and the youngest members of the pack are missing. Lyka’s need to search for her brother finds Joseph on the hunt alongside his potential mate. What ensues are several demon attacks, a near death experience for both Joseph and Lyka, and the revelation that someone is controlling the demons-behind the scenes. Lyka’s brother Eric will sacrifice himself to save the youngest members of his pack.
The world building finds several smaller storylines continuing to develop as per Shannon’s writing style. Ronan, the Sanguinar and Theronai healer, perseveres in his search for the woman who saved his life. This woman is familiar to Ronan but he is unable to place her identity or the nature of the battle she fights within herself. Connal is still missing and his actions have caused a rift between the Sanguinars and the human feeders who once opened their homes as safe houses for the warriors and healers.
SHANNON K BUTCHER is an amazing storyteller. The SENTINEL WARS is an infinitely detailed series about a supernatural species that defend and protect but a species that is also dependent on the people they protect. There are moments of anger and betrayal; lust and need; romance and love. But there are also times that romance on the run can be difficult when facing the demons who want to destroy your life. There is an urban fantasy feel to Shannon’s Sentinel War series as the Theronai continue to do battle with a foe that refuses to stop the hunt. There is always something or someone waiting on the other side.
Reading Order
1. Burning Alive
2. Finding The Lost
3. Running Scared
3.5 The Collector
4. Living Nightmare
5. Blood Hunt
5.5 Bound by Vengeance
6. Dying Wish
7. Falling Blind
8. Willing Sacrifice
9. Binding Ties
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 3, 2015
They are the Sentinels. Three races descended from ancient guardians of mankind, each possessing unique abilities in their battle to protect humanity against their eternal foes: the Synestryn. Now a warrior must protect his onetime enemy—without succumbing to his darkest desires.
Lyka Phelan is a Slayer, sent to live among her enemy to guarantee lasting peace with the Theronai. Yet she has a secret—and it could make her a slave to their power. But when a pack of Synestryn destroys her home and captures her packmates, Lyka realizes her freedom is a small price to pay for the safety of her people. So she strikes a bargain with the leader of the Theronai—one that reveals her true identity and binds her to him forever.
Joseph thought he knew better than to tangle with the beautiful, hot-blooded Lyka. One misstep could send their races straight back to war. But now he has no choice other than to help her. Forced to protect her with his life, Joseph finds himself increasingly drawn to Lyka. As they risk everything in their fight against the demons, he realizes he must convince her to surrender to him completely—otherwise she will never truly be his.
~~
REVIEW: 4.5 stars
SOME BACKGROUND: The Sentinels are three races descended from an ancient race of guardians known as the Athanasians, who defend and protect mankind from the demons at the door. The Theronai are the protectors whose Theronai lifemark-The Tree of Life-begins to lose its’ leaves if a Theronai warrior does not find his mate. The lifemark is a visual gage of a soul’s health, and all of the warriors suffering with the pain are running out of time. The Synestryn have killed most of the female Theronai and the warriors are in need of women whose DNA and heritage will match with their own: the Sanguinar are the healers (as well as blood feeders) and the Synestryn are the demons whose humanity has been lost for centuries.
BINDING TIES is the ninth full length installment in Shannon K Butcher’s SENTINEL WARS paranormal romance, fantasy series. This is Slayer Lyka Phelan and leader of the Theronai Joseph’s storyline. BINDING TIES can be read as a stand alone but for cohesion and history, I would suggest reading in order as many of the storylines overlap and continue in each successive installment. Shannon is an author who builds up future storylines in many of the previous novels.
The premise finds Lyka as a ‘guest’ of the Theronai. To keep the tentative peace between the Slayers and the Theronai, Lyka’s brother Andreas and the Theronai leader Joseph have inked out a plan for a provisional truce between the once combative enemies. The accord offers a member of each race in exchange for peace and understanding. Lyka was sent to the Theronai while Joseph’s adopted daughter was sent to the Slayers. Lyka believes she is nothing more than a prisoner in a gilded cage.
Joseph is in constant pain as his lifemark continues to lose its’ leaves. Nearing the end, Joseph is a man whose desire to lead his people is waning; he is tired of the battles and knows that he does not have much time left but Lyka’s presence eases his pain and without knowing, Lyka may be the answer to all of Joseph’s prayers. There is something about Lyka that calls to Joseph’s heart-something that Lyka would like to keep secret from all Theronai Males.
Lyka’s pack has been decimated. The demons have destroyed their village and Lyka’s brother Eric and the youngest members of the pack are missing. Lyka’s need to search for her brother finds Joseph on the hunt alongside his potential mate. What ensues are several demon attacks, a near death experience for both Joseph and Lyka, and the revelation that someone is controlling the demons-behind the scenes. Lyka’s brother Eric will sacrifice himself to save the youngest members of his pack.
The world building finds several smaller storylines continuing to develop as per Shannon’s writing style. Ronan, the Sanguinar and Theronai healer, perseveres in his search for the woman who saved his life. This woman is familiar to Ronan but he is unable to place her identity or the nature of the battle she fights within herself. Connal is still missing and his actions have caused a rift between the Sanguinars and the human feeders who once opened their homes as safe houses for the warriors and healers.
SHANNON K BUTCHER is an amazing storyteller. The SENTINEL WARS is an infinitely detailed series about a supernatural species that defend and protect but a species that is also dependent on the people they protect. There are moments of anger and betrayal; lust and need; romance and love. But there are also times that romance on the run can be difficult when facing the demons who want to destroy your life. There is an urban fantasy feel to Shannon’s Sentinel War series as the Theronai continue to do battle with a foe that refuses to stop the hunt. There is always something or someone waiting on the other side.
Reading Order
1. Burning Alive
2. Finding The Lost
3. Running Scared
3.5 The Collector
4. Living Nightmare
5. Blood Hunt
5.5 Bound by Vengeance
6. Dying Wish
7. Falling Blind
8. Willing Sacrifice
9. Binding Ties
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.
www.thereadingcafe.com
April 10, 2022
great read. Not much build-up for Lyka and Joseph. I didn't like how Lyka was portrayed in the book but someone might love her character. She seemed to always want to get out of a deal that she agreed to and use (and discard Joseph) as fast as she could....maybe if I read it in the future I'll like it better. Still a good read though.
February 25, 2018
Probably my least favorite of the series. I pretty much agree with all the other well-written reviews on here. Hoping the next one won't feature a female lead that I'd want to strangle in real life... Just saying. Please note this one was pretty dark and it might be considered a trigger to some.
December 13, 2017
Thank You Ms Butcher
This was good!
Any chance for some more books in this series?
I've been waiting for awhile now, lol.
Ken
This was good!
Any chance for some more books in this series?
I've been waiting for awhile now, lol.
Ken
March 4, 2018
Absolutely awesome- not to be missed!!
I have so enjoyed reading & re-reading this entire series- I love all the characters- and find the story line is fresh & exciting -
I have so enjoyed reading & re-reading this entire series- I love all the characters- and find the story line is fresh & exciting -
May 1, 2020
What a ride!
Great read! Lyka gave Joseph one hell of a ride! Sorry it wrapped up so quickly. Love this series & its characters!
Great read! Lyka gave Joseph one hell of a ride! Sorry it wrapped up so quickly. Love this series & its characters!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews