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Lords of Discipline #2
Bound by the Earl
The ties that bind…
After surviving a living hell, Miss Amanda Wilcox craves a peaceful life. Time with her sister and quiet fireside nights are all she desires. That, and some lessons in pleasure. Too disgraced to ever marry, with no virtue left to protect, she has no qualms indulging in a liaison. And she’s found the perfect man to satisfy her.
Julius Blackwell, Earl of Rothchild was tasked with one job – look after his absent best friend’s new sister-in-law. Bedding his charge is out of the question. Too timid to even leave her home, he can’t imagine she’d submit to his more adventuresome tastes. She’s a distraction he can’t afford, especially as the Crown has asked him to uncover a dangerous blackmail ring.
But when Amanda catches the blackmailers’ attention, Julius will do anything to ensure her safety, even if that means tying her to his bed. With loyalties tested and lives on the line, Julius will need Amanda’s help to outwit the cutthroats. They’ll have to learn to trust each other, in and out of the bedroom, or they’ll find themselves and their loved ones at the end of their ropes.
After surviving a living hell, Miss Amanda Wilcox craves a peaceful life. Time with her sister and quiet fireside nights are all she desires. That, and some lessons in pleasure. Too disgraced to ever marry, with no virtue left to protect, she has no qualms indulging in a liaison. And she’s found the perfect man to satisfy her.
Julius Blackwell, Earl of Rothchild was tasked with one job – look after his absent best friend’s new sister-in-law. Bedding his charge is out of the question. Too timid to even leave her home, he can’t imagine she’d submit to his more adventuresome tastes. She’s a distraction he can’t afford, especially as the Crown has asked him to uncover a dangerous blackmail ring.
But when Amanda catches the blackmailers’ attention, Julius will do anything to ensure her safety, even if that means tying her to his bed. With loyalties tested and lives on the line, Julius will need Amanda’s help to outwit the cutthroats. They’ll have to learn to trust each other, in and out of the bedroom, or they’ll find themselves and their loved ones at the end of their ropes.
202 pages, ebook
First published March 15, 2018
1119 people are currently reading
737 people want to read
About the author
Alyson Chase
14 books223 followersAlyson Chase writes historical romances that are just a bit…naughty. She is a former attorney, and thought that her flair for dramatic and sexy writing was seriously undervalued in her legal career. She also writes under the name Allyson Charles.
If you want to know when Alyson Chase’s next book is coming out, visit her at www.alysonchase.com and sign up for her VIP club.
If you want to know when Alyson Chase’s next book is coming out, visit her at www.alysonchase.com and sign up for her VIP club.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
March 21, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Amanda Wilcox is a disgraced woman. After murdering her father and spending a year in prison, she has no illusions of one day finding a man to spend the rest of her life with. She's tired of being a victim though, and not above seizing an opportunity to learn about pleasure.
Julius, Earl of Rothchild, has been tasked with watching over Amanda while his good friend is away on his honeymoon with Amanda's sister. You can imagine what happens next. :)
I LOVED these two damaged souls so much. They've both been imprisoned - Julius in Japan, Amanda in England - but even though their trauma manifests itself in completely different ways, their experiences tugged with equal ferocity at my heartstrings. The way they fit together was so wonderful. Gah! This story was filled with tenderness, longing...
Like its predecessor, Bound by the Earl delivered a stellar love story, but the subplot that runs parallel to it was a bit distracting. Julius works for the Crown as a quasi spy/thief/investigator, and his current case draws Amanda into the line of fire. It was all well-integrated, and I enjoyed the parts that revolved around Regency prison reform and women's rights (or lack thereof).
The extra half star is just for me! Kinky bondage is my absolute favorite, and stories that have BD but no SM are few and far between. This one was blissfully violence free and I couldn't have been happier. I definitely recommend!
Each revolution of the rope around her wrist was a tether. A link to earth that allowed her to float free without the fear of flying away.I loved the first book, Disciplined by the Duke. I loved this one! And I can't wait for book 3. Alyson Chase is well on her way to becoming one of my favorite authors!
Amanda Wilcox is a disgraced woman. After murdering her father and spending a year in prison, she has no illusions of one day finding a man to spend the rest of her life with. She's tired of being a victim though, and not above seizing an opportunity to learn about pleasure.
Julius, Earl of Rothchild, has been tasked with watching over Amanda while his good friend is away on his honeymoon with Amanda's sister. You can imagine what happens next. :)
I LOVED these two damaged souls so much. They've both been imprisoned - Julius in Japan, Amanda in England - but even though their trauma manifests itself in completely different ways, their experiences tugged with equal ferocity at my heartstrings. The way they fit together was so wonderful. Gah! This story was filled with tenderness, longing...
Not knowing if she should fight or submit. Indecision tore through her, and the back of her eyes burned with the not knowing.... passion, and above all the desire to find some peace.
She'd never been safe. So many took that feeling for granted. She never would.They both find that peace with each other, but of course, anything worth fighting for doesn't come easily.
Like its predecessor, Bound by the Earl delivered a stellar love story, but the subplot that runs parallel to it was a bit distracting. Julius works for the Crown as a quasi spy/thief/investigator, and his current case draws Amanda into the line of fire. It was all well-integrated, and I enjoyed the parts that revolved around Regency prison reform and women's rights (or lack thereof).
Julius wouldn't understand. For men like him it was taken for granted. If he spoke, people listened. He couldn't understand how voiceless the average woman was.But other parts of the ambitious subplot were left unexplored or perhaps over-simplified...so 4 stars overall.
The extra half star is just for me! Kinky bondage is my absolute favorite, and stories that have BD but no SM are few and far between. This one was blissfully violence free and I couldn't have been happier. I definitely recommend!
January 4, 2023
2.5
It was not bad. I didn't really care for the blackmail plot. I haven't read the first book but I think I should have. Just to get some background on the H/h of this book. I feel like something was missing from their romance. Because of this, I couldn't truly enjoy the erotic scenes. There's some bondage and anal sex.
It was not bad. I didn't really care for the blackmail plot. I haven't read the first book but I think I should have. Just to get some background on the H/h of this book. I feel like something was missing from their romance. Because of this, I couldn't truly enjoy the erotic scenes. There's some bondage and anal sex.
May 19, 2021
“When it comes to survival, there is no honor. Only choosing life or giving up. And there’s nothing wrong with choosing life. Do you understand?”3.25 stars
April 2020:
I started this book on June 6, 2019, got through 88% ... and then I have no idea what happened. I wish there was a way to see in Kindle when you got to what point, or when you made a highlight. Anyway, it's now April 2020 and I kind of remember the premise, but not really much of the book. Sooooo guess this is going back on the to-read list!
May 2021:
Restarted the book from the beginning and I so wish I had liked this book more, because I really wanted to love the characters and see them get their HEA, especially given all of the pain and they'd both been through in their lives. Something was missing though, and they both got on my nerves a bit; I found them quite unlikable at times. Or maybe just hard to access? One would think their characters would have incredible depth, given their backstories, but they felt very flat at times.
My main criticism is that I didn't feel like enough was done to push back on Amanda when she would take blame for her situation; some character or something should have been inserted to contradict that narrative, since really she is the victim/survivor in all of this and should take no blame whatsoever. What she went through—first with her father's repeated sexual abuse and then with repeated rape in prison and almost receiving the death penalty—could ruin a person's spirit, and yes, she is damaged and fearful, but she's also incredibly strong and resilient and not enough was made of this. I wanted more of a mirror to be held up so that she could see this in herself, and so that I was sure that other characters realized/thought the same.
I also didn't like how all of the servants treated her so horribly, and she just took it / no one else noticed. Yes, Julius fires half the staff when he realizes it at the beginning, but, ummmm, why that half, because the problem clearly remains! I get that she didn't want to complain and wouldn't stnad up for herself, but ugh, it was just very frustrating. Also, having just read the first book in the series where the heroine starts off as one of the duke's servants (albeit in his country home, not town home), I find it VERY hard to believe that the servants would actually act that way towards one of the duke's guests, let alone his sister-in-law. It doesn't at all fit with how the servants are portrayed in the first book and how a duke—and this duke—would run his household.
So much promise for a love story about two damaged souls who have suffered too much and find comfort in one another, but unfortunately it fell short on several fronts. (It didn't fall short on chemistry though, I'll give you that).
Pausing outside Amanda's door, he pressed his hands on the frame and rested his forehead against the wood.
He wanted inside. Inside her room. Inside her head. Inside her body.
August 10, 2021
This was a good book, but I felt so uncomfortable with the fact that the heroine was a prisoner and she was continually raped by the prison guards…I hate how that had happened to her. I know they don’t explicitly talk about that time in her life but they make mention of it, and we’ll I guess it was an intricate part to the story.
I like the hero, because he saves her from being hung, and doesn’t see her as ‘spoiled good’ and is still very very attracted to her. They are both emotionally broken and they use sex to help ease their hurt.
I like how at the end she makes friends with the suffragettes, becuase she spent the year having been freed from prison indoors, as she’s afraid of being scorned by society, but there are some people who are in support of her cause as she too helps in the reforment of society
👌🏾
I like the hero, because he saves her from being hung, and doesn’t see her as ‘spoiled good’ and is still very very attracted to her. They are both emotionally broken and they use sex to help ease their hurt.
I like how at the end she makes friends with the suffragettes, becuase she spent the year having been freed from prison indoors, as she’s afraid of being scorned by society, but there are some people who are in support of her cause as she too helps in the reforment of society
👌🏾
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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Blurb:
The ties that bind...
After surviving a living hell, Miss Amanda Wilcox craves a peaceful life. Time with her sister and quiet fireside nights are all she desires. That, and some lessons in pleasure. Too disgraced to ever marry, with no virtue left to protect, she has no qualms indulging in a liaison. And she's found the perfect man to satisfy her.
Julius Blackwell, Earl of Rothchild was tasked with one job - look after his absent best friend's new sister-in-law. Bedding his charge is out of the question. Too timid to even leave her home, he can't imagine she'd submit to his more adventuresome tastes. She's a distraction he can't afford, especially as the Crown has asked him to uncover a dangerous blackmail ring.
But when Amanda catches the blackmailers' attention, Julius will do anything to ensure her safety, even if that means tying her to his bed. With loyalties tested and lives on the line, Julius will need Amanda's help to outwit the cutthroats. They'll have to learn to trust each other, in and out of the bedroom, or they'll find themselves and their loved ones at the end of their ropes.
Blurb:
The ties that bind...
After surviving a living hell, Miss Amanda Wilcox craves a peaceful life. Time with her sister and quiet fireside nights are all she desires. That, and some lessons in pleasure. Too disgraced to ever marry, with no virtue left to protect, she has no qualms indulging in a liaison. And she's found the perfect man to satisfy her.
Julius Blackwell, Earl of Rothchild was tasked with one job - look after his absent best friend's new sister-in-law. Bedding his charge is out of the question. Too timid to even leave her home, he can't imagine she'd submit to his more adventuresome tastes. She's a distraction he can't afford, especially as the Crown has asked him to uncover a dangerous blackmail ring.
But when Amanda catches the blackmailers' attention, Julius will do anything to ensure her safety, even if that means tying her to his bed. With loyalties tested and lives on the line, Julius will need Amanda's help to outwit the cutthroats. They'll have to learn to trust each other, in and out of the bedroom, or they'll find themselves and their loved ones at the end of their ropes.
March 26, 2018
"Bound by the Earl", is the second book in Ms. Chase 's Lords of Discipline series.
I found the sotoryline well written and the characters like able and the book hard to put down.
Ms. Chase further introduces us to the Earl of Rothschild , Julius. Lacwell and Amanda Wilcox, both of whom we met in the very first book in the series . Though the book is second in the series an dtgecharacters previously introduced you can read as a standalone.
Julius has been asked to stay at his friends house the Duke of Montague and watch over Ms. Amanda Wilcox ; wh M he just rescurped from the gallows while The Duke and Amanda's sister Elizabeth's honeymoon . Overall what should be an easy assignment Well it would be if he did not find himself attracted to Amanda.
Julius being only one of his friends in the ton who currently work for the crown as spies and operatives that can circulate amongst the ton with ease was instrumental in Amanda's rescue from Tyburn and the hanging tree, Amanda had been imprisoned for killing her father in an act of self defense; Amanda and Elizabeth's father had been abusing Amanda since she was thirteen and would always threaten to seek Elizabeth out at night if Amanda refused him.
Unfortunately , even given the circumstances the ton does not forgive well as Amanda realizes that her fate will be that of a spinster ; no man will want a former prisoner and never. Ind a used women.
Especially not the Earl of Rothschild whine she finds herself attracted to more and more every day.
Amanda however can not bring herself to step out of the safety of the house since her inprosonment never mind bring hersel to be forward enough to ask Julius for what she desires.
Unlike Amanda, Julius thanks to being a prisoner of aJapanese Warlord and confined in small places for three years prior to escaping can not handle confined places; oddly enough these two polar opposites will find comfort and healing in each other. Amanda in Julius bed , tied and bound in the knots of a Japanese rope tying Julius learned while in Japan and Julius will find himself dealing with his issue of claustrophobia fr Amanda. Both finding their way while working a case for the crown that Amanda will become embroiled in. Will they survive this case? Will Montague kill Julius for bedding his sister in law , the very women he was supposed to protect ?
I found the sotoryline well written and the characters like able and the book hard to put down.
Ms. Chase further introduces us to the Earl of Rothschild , Julius. Lacwell and Amanda Wilcox, both of whom we met in the very first book in the series . Though the book is second in the series an dtgecharacters previously introduced you can read as a standalone.
Julius has been asked to stay at his friends house the Duke of Montague and watch over Ms. Amanda Wilcox ; wh M he just rescurped from the gallows while The Duke and Amanda's sister Elizabeth's honeymoon . Overall what should be an easy assignment Well it would be if he did not find himself attracted to Amanda.
Julius being only one of his friends in the ton who currently work for the crown as spies and operatives that can circulate amongst the ton with ease was instrumental in Amanda's rescue from Tyburn and the hanging tree, Amanda had been imprisoned for killing her father in an act of self defense; Amanda and Elizabeth's father had been abusing Amanda since she was thirteen and would always threaten to seek Elizabeth out at night if Amanda refused him.
Unfortunately , even given the circumstances the ton does not forgive well as Amanda realizes that her fate will be that of a spinster ; no man will want a former prisoner and never. Ind a used women.
Especially not the Earl of Rothschild whine she finds herself attracted to more and more every day.
Amanda however can not bring herself to step out of the safety of the house since her inprosonment never mind bring hersel to be forward enough to ask Julius for what she desires.
Unlike Amanda, Julius thanks to being a prisoner of aJapanese Warlord and confined in small places for three years prior to escaping can not handle confined places; oddly enough these two polar opposites will find comfort and healing in each other. Amanda in Julius bed , tied and bound in the knots of a Japanese rope tying Julius learned while in Japan and Julius will find himself dealing with his issue of claustrophobia fr Amanda. Both finding their way while working a case for the crown that Amanda will become embroiled in. Will they survive this case? Will Montague kill Julius for bedding his sister in law , the very women he was supposed to protect ?
March 11, 2024
Dnf plot like a —- wrote it. Spies spying on who knows what during the day. Pokin lady friends in the wrong hole by night.
August 30, 2019
I don’t usually opt to read BDSM flavored romances. It isn’t that I have anything against the practices in general – to each their own – but I find that it is simply isn’t my thing. So, understand that going into a book like Bound By The Earl by Alyson Chase, I am usually not fully engaged with the story.
That didn’t matter here. Despite any misgivings about the predilections of the main characters and their sexual escapades, I do happen to adore historical romance, and this book handled both aspects exceptionally well.
The characters had depth. They had flaws. The narrative flowed easily and was well edited (and researched I might add). The over-arching plot was full of delightful spy hijinks, and most importantly, the relationship between the main characters was both blazing hot, and incredibly sweet. The author did a fantastic job of portraying the difficulties of the characters and treating their phobias and needs with respect. Everything was handled incredibly well, and it made for a wonderful read.
That didn’t matter here. Despite any misgivings about the predilections of the main characters and their sexual escapades, I do happen to adore historical romance, and this book handled both aspects exceptionally well.
The characters had depth. They had flaws. The narrative flowed easily and was well edited (and researched I might add). The over-arching plot was full of delightful spy hijinks, and most importantly, the relationship between the main characters was both blazing hot, and incredibly sweet. The author did a fantastic job of portraying the difficulties of the characters and treating their phobias and needs with respect. Everything was handled incredibly well, and it made for a wonderful read.
February 19, 2025
I am so happy this book lived up to my expectations. Bound by the Earl was one of my highly anticipated books of 2018 because I was hooked on Julius and Amanda since the first book.
Bound by the Earl is one of the steamiest books I've ever read, right along with Jess Michaels's Taboo. These books have two things in common: the high steam level (kinks included) and heroines who have been sexually abused. My heart has been with Amanda since the first book, knowing what she went through...really broke me.
Julius and Amanda have gone through a lot, both were imprisoned and abused. Their abuse was not overly described, but it was not trivialized either. Julius and Amanda are both traumatized, but developed fears on opposite ends of the spectrum: Julius is scared of being trapped, while Amanda is scared of being outside in the open air. I am very impressed with the way the author tackled those fears. The writing was excellent. I was able to understand and empathize with both Julius and Amanda.
More importantly, I truly understood the sexual dynamic between the two. It made sense. Each love scene, wonderfully described, represented a step forward in Julius and Amanda's relationship. Even the almost love scene in Chapter 16 pushed Julius and Amanda even further outside their boundaries. I am not a habitual reader of erotic romance, and some scenes were very much outside my comfort. But I was still able to read them because they were so well-written. The author did a great job describing and developing Amanda's sexual needs. Julius and Amanda each had to conquer their fears and I was so proud of the steps they had taken. Of course, none of that happened overnight. I loved how the process was not rushed; everything happened naturally at the right pace.
I loved everything about Julius and Amanda. Every intimate scene, everything spoken and unspoken, just...everything about them. Yes, this book is erotic, but it was also very romantic. Julius and Amanda's romance was so sweet and fulfilling. I mean, *sigh* the things Julius did to help Amanda conquer her fear of the outside. And how Julius faced his fear to save Amanda. I just love them so much.
The supporting characters were also great! I was especially happy to find out more about Marcus and Julius's friends: Sutton, Summerset, and Dunkeld. And Lady Mary is an actual Queen lol. This series definitely has my interest. It's usually so easy for me to lose interest in a series, hence the pile of unfinished series, but this one has my attention. I eagerly await Sutton's book. I can't wait for everyone else to find their HEA.
I really wanted an epilogue!!! I wanted to read about Liz and Marcus's return to England. It would have been interesting to read about their reaction to Julius and Amanda. And I hope Marcus fires the rest of his servants.
Bound by the Earl is one of the steamiest books I've ever read, right along with Jess Michaels's Taboo. These books have two things in common: the high steam level (kinks included) and heroines who have been sexually abused. My heart has been with Amanda since the first book, knowing what she went through...really broke me.
Julius and Amanda have gone through a lot, both were imprisoned and abused. Their abuse was not overly described, but it was not trivialized either. Julius and Amanda are both traumatized, but developed fears on opposite ends of the spectrum: Julius is scared of being trapped, while Amanda is scared of being outside in the open air. I am very impressed with the way the author tackled those fears. The writing was excellent. I was able to understand and empathize with both Julius and Amanda.
More importantly, I truly understood the sexual dynamic between the two. It made sense. Each love scene, wonderfully described, represented a step forward in Julius and Amanda's relationship. Even the almost love scene in Chapter 16 pushed Julius and Amanda even further outside their boundaries. I am not a habitual reader of erotic romance, and some scenes were very much outside my comfort. But I was still able to read them because they were so well-written. The author did a great job describing and developing Amanda's sexual needs. Julius and Amanda each had to conquer their fears and I was so proud of the steps they had taken. Of course, none of that happened overnight. I loved how the process was not rushed; everything happened naturally at the right pace.
I loved everything about Julius and Amanda. Every intimate scene, everything spoken and unspoken, just...everything about them. Yes, this book is erotic, but it was also very romantic. Julius and Amanda's romance was so sweet and fulfilling. I mean, *sigh* the things Julius did to help Amanda conquer her fear of the outside. And how Julius faced his fear to save Amanda. I just love them so much.
The supporting characters were also great! I was especially happy to find out more about Marcus and Julius's friends: Sutton, Summerset, and Dunkeld. And Lady Mary is an actual Queen lol. This series definitely has my interest. It's usually so easy for me to lose interest in a series, hence the pile of unfinished series, but this one has my attention. I eagerly await Sutton's book. I can't wait for everyone else to find their HEA.
I really wanted an epilogue!!! I wanted to read about Liz and Marcus's return to England. It would have been interesting to read about their reaction to Julius and Amanda. And I hope Marcus fires the rest of his servants.
November 28, 2023
2.5 stars
Many things about this book annoyed me especially the hero I just couldn’t warm up to him. I couldn’t believe Julius could easily overcome his issues and care for Amanda in the way she deserved. Nor could I buy their happy ending. I also felt like the language and the characters’ behavior in this story didn’t fit the regency era.
Although, I found the plot to be interesting, that sadly didn’t stop it from being ruined by using the overdone tortured hero trope. I’m so tired of mmc who know they’re no good for the woman they supposedly care about yet they refuse to man up to earn her or at least have the decency to leave her alone. And as much as I found Amanda to be an interesting heroine in this genre, I can’t help but feel disappointed that her imprisonment and trauma were glossed over to make space for the rope kink with Julius. Nor did I like how she was disrespecting herself by settling for scraps from the man she loves.
I know I might be too harsh because I did enjoy some aspects of this story but I can’t help but feel disappointed and annoyed with the way it played out at the end.
Many things about this book annoyed me especially the hero I just couldn’t warm up to him. I couldn’t believe Julius could easily overcome his issues and care for Amanda in the way she deserved. Nor could I buy their happy ending. I also felt like the language and the characters’ behavior in this story didn’t fit the regency era.
Although, I found the plot to be interesting, that sadly didn’t stop it from being ruined by using the overdone tortured hero trope. I’m so tired of mmc who know they’re no good for the woman they supposedly care about yet they refuse to man up to earn her or at least have the decency to leave her alone. And as much as I found Amanda to be an interesting heroine in this genre, I can’t help but feel disappointed that her imprisonment and trauma were glossed over to make space for the rope kink with Julius. Nor did I like how she was disrespecting herself by settling for scraps from the man she loves.
I know I might be too harsh because I did enjoy some aspects of this story but I can’t help but feel disappointed and annoyed with the way it played out at the end.
February 6, 2024
Holy crap this was dark and steamy and riveting. I do think I should have started with book 1 which is the sister of the heroine's book because I think that book probably provided a lot of backstory for the heroine in this book. But regardless of my reading out of order, this book was great, it was dark and had some majorly difficult backstory for both MCs and I was invested in their romance and HEA and it felt well earned to me.
Content notes: bondage, rope play, mention of past sexual assault, wrongful imprisonment
Content notes: bondage, rope play, mention of past sexual assault, wrongful imprisonment
February 17, 2020
Meh. Not bad, but not really my cuppa.
Safety
Safety
April 14, 2019
Julius Blackwell, Earl of Rothchild works for the crown; he has a past that influences his lifestyle from his three years as a prisoner in the far East and has a skill set that makes him a leader in the search for the leaders of the crime ring threatening England. He is also the protector of his friend's sister-in-law, Miss Amanda Wilcox.
Julius rescued Amanda from the hangman's noose and prison and from her past. She still has issues of facing her fears and Julius finds a way to help her with his ropes and skills as she is Bound by the Earl. Together they face their personal demons, help each other find the leaders or the crime ring and find a lasting love for a happy ending in a gritty historical mystery and romance rolled into one. It is not a story for the faint of heart but one filled with excitement and interesting characters.
Julius rescued Amanda from the hangman's noose and prison and from her past. She still has issues of facing her fears and Julius finds a way to help her with his ropes and skills as she is Bound by the Earl. Together they face their personal demons, help each other find the leaders or the crime ring and find a lasting love for a happy ending in a gritty historical mystery and romance rolled into one. It is not a story for the faint of heart but one filled with excitement and interesting characters.
April 15, 2019
This is a suspenseful romance set in Regency time. Neither language nor behaviour fit into that time. There are many sexual episodes, featuring bondage, anal....
The mystery is not completely solved in the end, hero and heroine get their HEA.
The mystery is not completely solved in the end, hero and heroine get their HEA.
September 9, 2020
I was looking forward to this book, and it did not disappoint even for a moment!
In all honesty, Bound by the Earl was actually the book that made me interested in Lords of Discipline series in the first place, but as I wanted to have the context for it I decided to first take a look at Disciplined by the Duke, the previous story.
I obviously enjoyed it, but this book completely blown me away.
Although, I was little apprehensive about a story of a former (abused) prisoner and her lover with a bondage fetish (is this the correct term?), the story handled that delicate relationship with grace and all the necessary caution.
The moment Amanda and Lucius met there was spark between them; he felt protective about her, and she – perhaps starved for human connection that was not abusive – trusted him almost immediately. They both had their demons, their insecurities and fears, and I loved how together they were able to overcome them.
They were well written, fleshed out character that one can connect to really easily. I loved how despite all the abuse she suffered, Amanda still was strong enough to reach out at fight for her happiness, and how Lucius, also a survivor, at first adamant that love was not possible for him, in the end trusted and opened up to his lover.
The chemistry between them was palatable and scorching hot, as well as any intimate scenes they shared. They way they balanced each other and just simply talked was such a wonderful way to show how an intense relationship develops between two seemingly damaged people.
The BDSM aspect of the story was once again very tasteful, and exhilarating with just a right amount of angst and romance thrown into the mix. All the erotic scenes, albeit much hotter than in an averaged romance novel, were also one of the most romantic ones I’ve read this year.
The hero was always incredible caring and careful with the heroine, and she with him, as they explored new sides of themselves with such an amazing gentleness.
In this one, the espionage (sub) plot was maybe a little more prominent than in the previous book, as there were much more scenes of Lucius actually, well, working, but still it was mostly a background for the developing romance.
What I’d like to point out, tho, is how absolutely wonderful the banter between Rothchild and his spy friends was. Every single scene of them together was perfection: from Julius and Maximillian Atwood, Baron of Sutton, grumpily sitting in the rain during a stakeout, to the glorious bickering between Dunkeld and Summerset (I *can’t* wait to read his book).
Honestly, I wouldn’t mind a novella just about them going on missions. Or hell, even a tv series, or better yet - an anime (Summerset with his flamboyance, charm, and impeccable fashion sense would be perfect for that)!
Anyway, the banter was wonderful, as was the prose in general. Alyson Chase uses English with elegance and natural flow that makes reading her books such a pleasure.
I highly recommend Bound by the Earl ; even if you are not sure if the heat level is for you, or BDSM tag a little scary, this story handles those themes with such gentleness and care it’s really worth it. One of the most romantic books I’ve read this year!
5+/5 stars
In all honesty, Bound by the Earl was actually the book that made me interested in Lords of Discipline series in the first place, but as I wanted to have the context for it I decided to first take a look at Disciplined by the Duke, the previous story.
I obviously enjoyed it, but this book completely blown me away.
Although, I was little apprehensive about a story of a former (abused) prisoner and her lover with a bondage fetish (is this the correct term?), the story handled that delicate relationship with grace and all the necessary caution.
The moment Amanda and Lucius met there was spark between them; he felt protective about her, and she – perhaps starved for human connection that was not abusive – trusted him almost immediately. They both had their demons, their insecurities and fears, and I loved how together they were able to overcome them.
They were well written, fleshed out character that one can connect to really easily. I loved how despite all the abuse she suffered, Amanda still was strong enough to reach out at fight for her happiness, and how Lucius, also a survivor, at first adamant that love was not possible for him, in the end trusted and opened up to his lover.
The chemistry between them was palatable and scorching hot, as well as any intimate scenes they shared. They way they balanced each other and just simply talked was such a wonderful way to show how an intense relationship develops between two seemingly damaged people.
The BDSM aspect of the story was once again very tasteful, and exhilarating with just a right amount of angst and romance thrown into the mix. All the erotic scenes, albeit much hotter than in an averaged romance novel, were also one of the most romantic ones I’ve read this year.
The hero was always incredible caring and careful with the heroine, and she with him, as they explored new sides of themselves with such an amazing gentleness.
In this one, the espionage (sub) plot was maybe a little more prominent than in the previous book, as there were much more scenes of Lucius actually, well, working, but still it was mostly a background for the developing romance.
What I’d like to point out, tho, is how absolutely wonderful the banter between Rothchild and his spy friends was. Every single scene of them together was perfection: from Julius and Maximillian Atwood, Baron of Sutton, grumpily sitting in the rain during a stakeout, to the glorious bickering between Dunkeld and Summerset (I *can’t* wait to read his book).
Honestly, I wouldn’t mind a novella just about them going on missions. Or hell, even a tv series, or better yet - an anime (Summerset with his flamboyance, charm, and impeccable fashion sense would be perfect for that)!
Anyway, the banter was wonderful, as was the prose in general. Alyson Chase uses English with elegance and natural flow that makes reading her books such a pleasure.
I highly recommend Bound by the Earl ; even if you are not sure if the heat level is for you, or BDSM tag a little scary, this story handles those themes with such gentleness and care it’s really worth it. One of the most romantic books I’ve read this year!
5+/5 stars
March 23, 2018
Good story, tough read....
I wavered on how to rate it. I had mixed feelings throughout the book. I really struggled and I’m an adventurous reader. I loved the first in this series & was anxious but also well prepared for something angsty, and it was.
Julius is a man who has been thru some stuff! He’s spent time in prison, been tortured, humiliated. He hides it behind his happy go lucky charming facade.
Amanda, well she’s been thru a lot. Fresh out of prison, for killing her disgusting father, a year below in Newgate, (ugly stuff, Newgate) feeling alone and unwanted and frankly dirty......she’s been rescued, book 1. Julius is her champion.
That these two even find the means to heal their hearts and come together is the story. I wavered though, I kept yelling at Amanda she wasn’t ready and I really didn’t buy into any of it until the second half when the author starts to really put together the wonderful pieces of these two souls.
It’s a redemption story. I’m going to stick to that, for two brutally used and tortured people. In the end it made complete sense, but my journey swallowing that pill, was a bit tough.
Now, if you’ve read the first book, I recommend this. However if you haven’t, I think you should.
I wavered on how to rate it. I had mixed feelings throughout the book. I really struggled and I’m an adventurous reader. I loved the first in this series & was anxious but also well prepared for something angsty, and it was.
Julius is a man who has been thru some stuff! He’s spent time in prison, been tortured, humiliated. He hides it behind his happy go lucky charming facade.
Amanda, well she’s been thru a lot. Fresh out of prison, for killing her disgusting father, a year below in Newgate, (ugly stuff, Newgate) feeling alone and unwanted and frankly dirty......she’s been rescued, book 1. Julius is her champion.
That these two even find the means to heal their hearts and come together is the story. I wavered though, I kept yelling at Amanda she wasn’t ready and I really didn’t buy into any of it until the second half when the author starts to really put together the wonderful pieces of these two souls.
It’s a redemption story. I’m going to stick to that, for two brutally used and tortured people. In the end it made complete sense, but my journey swallowing that pill, was a bit tough.
Now, if you’ve read the first book, I recommend this. However if you haven’t, I think you should.
March 19, 2018
Julius is an Earl working for the government investigating a blackmail ring. He lives on the outskirts of society and has some odd sexual preferences. Amanda is recovering from imprisonment and the circumstances that lead to her imprisonment and is ready to take a step towards healing (and Julius is in her plans for that first step). Amanda and Julius have both survived horrible experiences and their methods of coping are complimentary to each other (one likes the security of small spaces, the other is claustrophobic). The mystery, the trust that develops between them, the desire and erotic sex scenes were well done. The secondary characters: Julius’ friends, Amanda’s chaperone and her dog were also well developed and very entertaining.
This is the second book in this series and although it is a stand alone book, I suggest reading them in order. And it you like the erotic edge to this story, I recommend Elsa Holland’s “The Bound Heart”.
This is the second book in this series and although it is a stand alone book, I suggest reading them in order. And it you like the erotic edge to this story, I recommend Elsa Holland’s “The Bound Heart”.
August 15, 2019
Secure In His Arms
A blackmail ring brings together men working for the crown. Julius is not only involved, but must also protect his friend's sister-in-law. When they become lovers the ropes of bondage bring them closer together. Be aware this is no ordinary affair.
A blackmail ring brings together men working for the crown. Julius is not only involved, but must also protect his friend's sister-in-law. When they become lovers the ropes of bondage bring them closer together. Be aware this is no ordinary affair.
February 13, 2020
A good story to bind the binding
March 15, 2023
3.5 stars
February 11, 2018
In this story two damaged souls find solace in each other in an otherwise unlikely pairing. I found this story to be well written and did not want to pause in reading. The dialog is good, with a bit of wry humor provided by the earl's friends and cohorts in service to the crown. A blackmailing scheme to be solved provides the background drama and mystery. I'm looking forward to reading the next in this series.
I received a free ARC and voluntarily chose to read and review it.
I received a free ARC and voluntarily chose to read and review it.
April 13, 2019
To each his own
Two people, each trying to overcome a trauma, help each other find redemption in their love. Great story, with love.
Two people, each trying to overcome a trauma, help each other find redemption in their love. Great story, with love.
May 6, 2019
The story started off strong, I mostly liked the main characters, and the love scenes were quite good. It lost me when the secondary spy/blackmail plot took over. Overall, this book isn't nearly as charming as it thinks it is.
I skimmed quite a bit of the investigation that the hero does with his spy buddies because I was not impressed with the plot or development. In particular, when Amanda suddenly becomes a handwriting expert and she actually shouts "Eureka!" when she recalls where she saw those distinctively crossed T's before. How convenient.
Even worse than the secondary plot was the cast of secondary characters. I suppose we were supposed to be introduced to Julius' spy friends and care that there will be other books in the series, but they each only had one personality trait and mostly drained scenes they shared together with their supposedly witty banter. I could look past this, but the light in which the author cast the lady reformers/bluestocking group was not nearly as flattering as she seemed to think it was. Overall, the only characters who weren't flat caricatures were the two leads (only by a hair), and the spinster aunt who had about 5 pages total of depth before becoming a plot device.
The prose in general was uneven and a lot of the times too modern, that was never more noticeable as when there were awkward period phrases sprinkled in for appearances sake. A throw away line about conflict brewing because of those "upstart Americans" stood out particularly since that had nothing to do with the story, and Julius has no interest in international politics, he barely has any investment in the prison reform storyline outside saying he voted in favor of reform, what a good boy he is. Instead of serving as a sense of time and place, it took away from the experience. It mostly felt like the historical setting was added in after because it did not fit the writing style at all.
It also really bothered me that Julius spends quite a few pages making fun of the spy friend who helped him the most for reading "Pride and Prejudice," and how unmanly his friend was for reading a novel written by a woman - it was another of those anachronisms that was supposed to be a marker of the historical setting, but it was as clunky as the rest and no one needs that kind of toxic masculinity for the sake of "historical accuracy" - nothing else is remotely accurate, what was the point of this?
It had potential, but I'm glad it was free on kindle, and I don't think I'll be reading any others in the series.
I skimmed quite a bit of the investigation that the hero does with his spy buddies because I was not impressed with the plot or development. In particular, when Amanda suddenly becomes a handwriting expert and she actually shouts "Eureka!" when she recalls where she saw those distinctively crossed T's before. How convenient.
Even worse than the secondary plot was the cast of secondary characters. I suppose we were supposed to be introduced to Julius' spy friends and care that there will be other books in the series, but they each only had one personality trait and mostly drained scenes they shared together with their supposedly witty banter. I could look past this, but the light in which the author cast the lady reformers/bluestocking group was not nearly as flattering as she seemed to think it was. Overall, the only characters who weren't flat caricatures were the two leads (only by a hair), and the spinster aunt who had about 5 pages total of depth before becoming a plot device.
The prose in general was uneven and a lot of the times too modern, that was never more noticeable as when there were awkward period phrases sprinkled in for appearances sake. A throw away line about conflict brewing because of those "upstart Americans" stood out particularly since that had nothing to do with the story, and Julius has no interest in international politics, he barely has any investment in the prison reform storyline outside saying he voted in favor of reform, what a good boy he is. Instead of serving as a sense of time and place, it took away from the experience. It mostly felt like the historical setting was added in after because it did not fit the writing style at all.
It also really bothered me that Julius spends quite a few pages making fun of the spy friend who helped him the most for reading "Pride and Prejudice," and how unmanly his friend was for reading a novel written by a woman - it was another of those anachronisms that was supposed to be a marker of the historical setting, but it was as clunky as the rest and no one needs that kind of toxic masculinity for the sake of "historical accuracy" - nothing else is remotely accurate, what was the point of this?
It had potential, but I'm glad it was free on kindle, and I don't think I'll be reading any others in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2018
A well written story with nice storyline and plot. A sweet romance about learning to trust again. To get over the hurt from the past. The characters are very likeable and well described. Can they open up and get past what happened? Can they be together and find their HEA? They have to let their emotions out and show each other how they feel. Communication is very important here.
The story is true to it's time period. I like when an author has made research about the time period they want to write the story in. It is the second in the series about the Lords of Discipline and I like that the author gives us an update on the characters from the first. But it can be read as a standalone.
There is drama, family issues, passion, murder, blackmail, secrets, mystery, emotions and some twists. It is very captivating from first to last chapter. That is because the characters have such great and well described personalities that you feel you know them and are there with them. It kept me on the edge because of the twists that were unexpected. A great humour and very likeable supporting characters.
I cannot wait for the next book. Really a must read!
The story is true to it's time period. I like when an author has made research about the time period they want to write the story in. It is the second in the series about the Lords of Discipline and I like that the author gives us an update on the characters from the first. But it can be read as a standalone.
There is drama, family issues, passion, murder, blackmail, secrets, mystery, emotions and some twists. It is very captivating from first to last chapter. That is because the characters have such great and well described personalities that you feel you know them and are there with them. It kept me on the edge because of the twists that were unexpected. A great humour and very likeable supporting characters.
I cannot wait for the next book. Really a must read!
February 27, 2023
I loved the first one in this series. I liked the first half of this book. Then, we left the romance and we’re in the political/blackmail storyline for too long. There were some things just told and not shown. Their turn around from never going to marry to “yes, I want to marry” was not believable. I was annoyed with both characters a lot. Him more than her. The villain never confessed and nothing really happened to him. The director doxxed our FMC, for reasons that didn’t make sense. That mad me mad. Also, the ladies society and the aunt pushed our FMC when she wasn’t ready and took away some of her agency and choices. They all did. Gross. I won’t continue with the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2020
Not quite what I expected from a historical romance but a good story nevertheless. I even chuckled a few times during the second half of the book 🙂 It was quite a long way Julius and Amanda had to go. Oh, and the mystery was very good! Question remains, of course, would I buy one of the author's books, as this was a freebie.
August 28, 2022
I read out of sequence so felt lost about the h's history. But as it was repeated over and over again, I soon knew her reasons for being so fragile. The H was arrogant and like h, suffering from a trauma. He uses his kink to control his angst, but really he needed a good cry. A sad couple, and while I finished it, I didn't enjoy this tedious couple. So self absorbed. Just OK.
July 2, 2018
Some real potential with this author. Weak in the middle with too much snooze of the Men-Posse-Investigation but the smex and romance sparkage is strong.
April 15, 2019
Liked the beginning.
too much ropes...
too much ropes...
August 23, 2019
This book needs pictures because my imagination is not that good.
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