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The Nature Hunters Academy #1
Bound by Earth
Tara Thompson cannot be injured. Since the night her parents died in a tragic accident, she hasn’t felt pain of any kind, not so much as a papercut. And she has no idea why. Though her body healed quickly, her heart and soul took its time. Luckily, a loving foster mom and an unwanted best friend stepped in to speed up the process. Despite Tara’s best efforts, her new BFF, Shelly Smith, just wouldn’t go away. By their senior year, the girls were thick as thieves and would probably become thieves if Shelly had anything to say about their future. Thankfully, fate intervenes in the form of a high school recruiter, Elias Creed, who works for a mysterious geological testing company. Cue the dreamy music and soft lighting as he walks in slow motion toward her. Then Elias opens his mouth and Tara laments the fact that the first guy she’s ever been seriously attracted to...is a complete and utter butthead. Still, she can’t seem to shake him, and she and Shelly are both intrigued by the company he works for. Little do they know it’s not a company at all. It’s an academy for those gifted with elemental powers and she’s already been enrolled. And Elias isn’t Tara’s only suitor. The hottest guy in school--Tucker Adams--has been asking Tara out for the past three years and each time she’s shot him down. Now, he’s finally broken down her walls. But when Elias and Tucker both warn Tara the other is dangerous, she doesn’t know who to believe. When the truth is finally revealed, Tara finds out both men know more about her past than she does, including what caused the accident that took her parents' lives.
372 pages, Paperback
Published February 25, 2020
551 people are currently reading
1119 people want to read
About the author
Quinn Loftis
77 books5,971 followersHello, Readers. My name is Quinn Loftis and I am lucky enough to call myself a novelist. In 2011, I self-published my first novel, Prince of Wolves with no expectations, other than my friends and family might purchase the book out of pity. Now, several years later, with 30+ novels and counting under my belt, Prince of Wolves had been downloaded over 1 million times. Though I was hesitant at the time to submit my work to the world for their scrutiny, I'm so glad I did. It made my dream of making a living by telling stories a reality.
I'm blessed to share my household my wonderful husband of more than twenty years (who also co-writes with me on occasion), three beautiful sons, a French Bulldog, and an oversized tabby cat. I love hearing from readers, so if you have any questions about the books or my journey, don't hesitate to hit the 'Contact Quinn' in the menu above. Thank you so much for taking a chance on my books.
I'm blessed to share my household my wonderful husband of more than twenty years (who also co-writes with me on occasion), three beautiful sons, a French Bulldog, and an oversized tabby cat. I love hearing from readers, so if you have any questions about the books or my journey, don't hesitate to hit the 'Contact Quinn' in the menu above. Thank you so much for taking a chance on my books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
January 29, 2020
Great first book of the series! I sooo can't wait for the next book in the series and the first book isn't even officially available to be purchased. I have already been telling my friends and family of this book and encouraging them to read it when it comes available.
This book has romance, action, and comedy mixed throughout the book. I love the witty banter between the characters! I kept laughing out loud while I was reading this book. No sex scenes, but there are sexual innuendos. The main story line for this book is about two senior girls finishing their last year of high school and starting to think about the future, when the main character meets her soul mate at a job/college fair, but there isn't the all consuming emotions right away, it builds gradually through the book until it peaks with the climax of the book. It is still definitely a whirlwind love story. The book starts off about five years in the past, with a few glimpses of the years in between then to the present day. The majority of the book happens in the span of about two months. Choosing between two very hot guys, a war coming between good and evil, and learning that her world is much bigger than she ever thought, the main character and her best friend have quite a senior year ahead of them.
This book has romance, action, and comedy mixed throughout the book. I love the witty banter between the characters! I kept laughing out loud while I was reading this book. No sex scenes, but there are sexual innuendos. The main story line for this book is about two senior girls finishing their last year of high school and starting to think about the future, when the main character meets her soul mate at a job/college fair, but there isn't the all consuming emotions right away, it builds gradually through the book until it peaks with the climax of the book. It is still definitely a whirlwind love story. The book starts off about five years in the past, with a few glimpses of the years in between then to the present day. The majority of the book happens in the span of about two months. Choosing between two very hot guys, a war coming between good and evil, and learning that her world is much bigger than she ever thought, the main character and her best friend have quite a senior year ahead of them.
November 14, 2025
After reading the Clan Hakon series back in 2018, I have been eager to read something by Quinn Loftis again, so I had really high hopes for the first book in the Nature Hunters Academy. Loftis' Clan Hakon series was truly one of my favorite and most memorable reads, and I was happy to fall back into her world of action, romance, and witty humor. However, I was surprised by the very juvenile feeling of the humor and banter (although, at the same time, the humor didn't seem appropriate for my 15-year-old). 🤔💁♀️ It just seemed immature and tacky. I read a lot of YA books, and I don't typically feel that I am too mature of an audience… but looking back at the Clan Hakon series, I realize that while it was considered YA, it was also labeled 'new adult’, so maybe that's the difference I'm seeing. Anyhow, once I got past all of this, I did rather enjoy the story and the premise of the series.
This series is all about the supernatural world, good and evil. There are good and bad Elementalist (earth, fire, water, and air) that are at war with each other unbeknownst to humans. Tara, a high school senior, has always known that she was a little different after the death of her parents; however, she had no idea that she was gifted with earth-elemental magic and that she was soul bonded to another.
When Tara and Shelly (Tara's BFFF) go to a recruitment fair at school and meet Elias, who works at a geological testing company, TGTE, Tara and Elias are overcome by their connection to one another. Elias, good earth Elementalist, discovers that they are soul-bonded, and things begin to happen to them that they never expected.
This is a funny, fast-paced read that will keep you turning the pages and leave you with a cliffhanger that will make reading book two a must! 3.8 stars.
This series is all about the supernatural world, good and evil. There are good and bad Elementalist (earth, fire, water, and air) that are at war with each other unbeknownst to humans. Tara, a high school senior, has always known that she was a little different after the death of her parents; however, she had no idea that she was gifted with earth-elemental magic and that she was soul bonded to another.
When Tara and Shelly (Tara's BFFF) go to a recruitment fair at school and meet Elias, who works at a geological testing company, TGTE, Tara and Elias are overcome by their connection to one another. Elias, good earth Elementalist, discovers that they are soul-bonded, and things begin to happen to them that they never expected.
This is a funny, fast-paced read that will keep you turning the pages and leave you with a cliffhanger that will make reading book two a must! 3.8 stars.
February 25, 2020
If you have not read a book by Quinn Loftis you are missing out. She is one of my favorite authors to read. However, I will warn you that if you do read her books, make sure you are not eating or drinking anything and have tissues on hand.
With that said, Quinn Loftis, this is going to be another epic series. You will enjoy every word you read. You will fall in love with the characters. You will meet Tara Thompson who has been dealt a tragic hand. Then you meet Shelly who is funny and sassy and decides she is going to be Tara best friend. These two are complete opposites but they work great. Then Elias Creed steps in the picture and then the world tilts and everything goes wacky but not all in a bad way. However, there is Tucker who has been trying to get Tara to go on a date with him. Now the question is why? What is this pull with Elias? What is the feeling she is getting when around Tucker? She knows something is off and is trying to gets answers but who should she be getting them from? This book is deep with emotions and everything else. There is even a level of mystery as well. Once I started reading this book, I was drawn into the small town of Buffalo, Kentucky. The ending had my mind blown! I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. This is a must read book.
**This is an advanced readers copy**
With that said, Quinn Loftis, this is going to be another epic series. You will enjoy every word you read. You will fall in love with the characters. You will meet Tara Thompson who has been dealt a tragic hand. Then you meet Shelly who is funny and sassy and decides she is going to be Tara best friend. These two are complete opposites but they work great. Then Elias Creed steps in the picture and then the world tilts and everything goes wacky but not all in a bad way. However, there is Tucker who has been trying to get Tara to go on a date with him. Now the question is why? What is this pull with Elias? What is the feeling she is getting when around Tucker? She knows something is off and is trying to gets answers but who should she be getting them from? This book is deep with emotions and everything else. There is even a level of mystery as well. Once I started reading this book, I was drawn into the small town of Buffalo, Kentucky. The ending had my mind blown! I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. This is a must read book.
**This is an advanced readers copy**
Want to read
July 14, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (7/14/2020)! 🎁
February 9, 2020
Whew...ok, so it took me a moment to write my arc review for this book because I wanted to make sure that I did it justice. First and foremost I want to say that the way Quinn weaves the tale of soulmates in all of her books regardless of if they be grey wolves, Gypsies, elementals, elves, warlocks or just plain old normal people is truly magical. Not only that but the friendship between Tara and Shelly is magnetic and fascinating to dive into. Just to think, I thought Quinn gave all her humor to Jen from Grey Wolves, how wrong I was because Shelly is a riot.
This is a story of a girl, Tara Thompson, who was dealt a tragic hand at a young age. After losing her parents, Tara has lost the will to care about anything anymore. Here enters Shelly Smith, who decides that Tara will be her best friend even if she has to drag Tara down the Yellow Brick Road of friendship kicking and screaming (which she absolutely does btw 🤣). Five years pass, the girls are still best friends getting ready to graduate high-school. During a job fair, fate intervened and Tara meets the hottie Elias who makes her drool yet pisses her off all at once. I’ll stop here and let you go ahead and buy your copy now.
Get ready for hilarious jokes, witty come backs, and Jen-worthy sexual innuendos galore. I cannot wait for the next one!!! Anyone who is questioning if Quinn Loftis can indeed, keep “doing it again,” ask no more, she absolutely can. Go buy this book immediately, I promise you won’t regret it.
*This is an advanced readers copy*
This is a story of a girl, Tara Thompson, who was dealt a tragic hand at a young age. After losing her parents, Tara has lost the will to care about anything anymore. Here enters Shelly Smith, who decides that Tara will be her best friend even if she has to drag Tara down the Yellow Brick Road of friendship kicking and screaming (which she absolutely does btw 🤣). Five years pass, the girls are still best friends getting ready to graduate high-school. During a job fair, fate intervened and Tara meets the hottie Elias who makes her drool yet pisses her off all at once. I’ll stop here and let you go ahead and buy your copy now.
Get ready for hilarious jokes, witty come backs, and Jen-worthy sexual innuendos galore. I cannot wait for the next one!!! Anyone who is questioning if Quinn Loftis can indeed, keep “doing it again,” ask no more, she absolutely can. Go buy this book immediately, I promise you won’t regret it.
*This is an advanced readers copy*
February 19, 2020
OMG!!! I did not think I would love a series more than Quinns Grey Wolf series but oh how I was wrong!!! I absolutely loved this book! I love Taras spirit and her best friend is definitely a crack up. Not going to lie, I laughed out loud multiple times. Quinns sense of humor comes out strong in this book. Which I love! Definitely buy this book, you will not regret! My fiance has some competition to Elias.... love this new book boyfriend ;)
March 14, 2020
Quinn Loftis does it again. It’s an amazing start to what will be a wonderful new series. It has a powerful bond of friendship. love, adventure and suspense. I cannot wait for the next book. Quinn never disappoints. This is a must read book.
January 31, 2020
A great new series by YA author, Quinn Loftis. Bound by Earth, Nature Academy book one, follows Tara Thompson, and her best friend Shelly Smith as they first meet and then become friends, then before you know it they are about to graduate high school. Looking for their next step after high school, the girls attend the job fair held in the gym where they meet a recruiter named Jax and his partner, Elias Creed. As things begin to develop gradually between Tara and Elias, Elias discovers that the pull between them is that she is his soul bonded, and when Jax forces them apart, things begin to happen to them that they never expected.
While Elias is gone, Tucker Adams becomes more aggressive in asking Tara out on dates, and eventually Tucker tells her everything about the supernatural world, putting Tara in danger and making Elias unstable. Will Elias be able to get to her in time? A must read for Quinn Loftis fans. I can’t wait to read book two to see what happens next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
While Elias is gone, Tucker Adams becomes more aggressive in asking Tara out on dates, and eventually Tucker tells her everything about the supernatural world, putting Tara in danger and making Elias unstable. Will Elias be able to get to her in time? A must read for Quinn Loftis fans. I can’t wait to read book two to see what happens next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
February 2, 2020
Another amazing book by Quinn Loftis. This book takes you on a journey that you just can’t walk away from. Be prepared to never put this book down. This book is full of hilarious and emotional moments. You will go from spitting out your drink laughing to crying in the matter of a page. You become one with the characters and can’t wait to see how it ends! If you haven’t read a book by Quinn Loftis then you have not truly experienced what it is to love a book and it’s characters.
February 3, 2020
Bound by Earth is spell-bounding and emotionally charged. The friendship between the main character Tara and Shelley is exactly what you would expect between someone who is emotionally broken and someone who doesn’t care what others think.
Quinn has written a story of friendship, loss, love and finding out who you really are in such away that leaves the reader wanting more. This new world is everything you would expect from Quinn Loftis and more.
The wait for book two is on!
Quinn has written a story of friendship, loss, love and finding out who you really are in such away that leaves the reader wanting more. This new world is everything you would expect from Quinn Loftis and more.
The wait for book two is on!
Read
January 29, 2020Quinn Loftis is exceptionally talented. She has produced another great adventure. Bound By Earth stays true to her funny, exciting, YA, romantic style. The characters -- Tara, Shelly, Tucker, Ra, Carol and all the rest pull you into the completely newly designed world. Tragedy, hope, love, intrique, loyalty, humor, pain all come together to take the reader on a magical ride. Loftis is my number one go to author who always delivers. Need an escape, Quinn Loftis takes you away on a great journey with Bound By Earth. Like her Grey Wolves, Gypsy Wolves, and Vikings series, Bound By Earth promises to give the readers just what we need to remember the value of each other.
January 31, 2020
In this first installment of a brand new series, author Quinn Loftis introduces us to a new world with vivid imagery and richly developing characters. Remaining true to her quirky style, Loftis has created fresh female faces that are hilariously snarky and strong protagonists, and allowed us to feel overwhelmingly powerful bonds of love and friendship. Perfectly blended with magic and nature, Bound By Earth has promise to be an epic series, and I cannot wait for the second book!
February 1, 2020
This book is so refreshing and new for Quinn. I had the chance to read it early and it did not disappoint.This book has some great ups and downs for the protagonist. Some very cute men also! That’s always a plus. If you are into the avatar type of thing where the elements are used magically then this is the series for you. Honestly Quinn rocked it!! (Pun intended 😂)
February 25, 2020
I am willingly leaving a review as an ARC reader.
This book is amazing!! Quinn Loftis is is one of my favorite authors! I am picky with who I call “favorite”. This is why reading is so wonderful! Her creations are an excellent example of stories captivating our lives. Quinn is creative with the worlds she creates, which makes it hard to put her books down. When ever I get into one of her books, I have to prepare myself for an adventurous ride, amazing friends and beautiful world that I never want to leave. I love her depth to which she creates. She has great messages in her writing. Her characters are fantastic. I laugh out loud (literally, in public no less), I cry, I swoon and I get caught up in her characters and worlds. Bound by Earth is no different. I felt real pain for Tara’s loss, I felt the sarcasm and annoyance between friends and cue the butterfly’s for Elias! I am so excited for the next book. This will be such a fantastic series!!
This book is amazing!! Quinn Loftis is is one of my favorite authors! I am picky with who I call “favorite”. This is why reading is so wonderful! Her creations are an excellent example of stories captivating our lives. Quinn is creative with the worlds she creates, which makes it hard to put her books down. When ever I get into one of her books, I have to prepare myself for an adventurous ride, amazing friends and beautiful world that I never want to leave. I love her depth to which she creates. She has great messages in her writing. Her characters are fantastic. I laugh out loud (literally, in public no less), I cry, I swoon and I get caught up in her characters and worlds. Bound by Earth is no different. I felt real pain for Tara’s loss, I felt the sarcasm and annoyance between friends and cue the butterfly’s for Elias! I am so excited for the next book. This will be such a fantastic series!!
January 29, 2020
I don't think I have ever given less than 5 stars for any book that Quinn Loftis has written. Bound by Earth is no different, in that regard. Quinn always delivers, I have never been disappointed in a book she wrote. Bound by Earth has so many emotions woven through it. It's funny, sarcastic, heartbreaking, lustful and filled with amazing, strong women. I loved Elias. So much drool! Why do I drool so much when I read Quinns books?!? Oh ya, because hot hunky dory yummy men. My heart goes to Tara. I cannot wait til book two comes!!
January 31, 2020
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of Bound by Earth and I have to say I was not disappointed. Much like Quinn's other books this one is filled with 'hot' men and insanely funny women, with so much happening in the story you cannot possibly get bored . I'm now anxiously waiting for part 2 as I have found my new favourite 'BFFF' 😁
January 29, 2020
I Loved this series, it’s addictive and hilariously funny. Quinn somehow manages to create such wonderfully complex interesting and honest characters. If you have read any of her books you quickly realise this book, you won’t be disappointed, she created another world that has a new and exciting storyline that wraps a hand around your heart and squeezes tight. I can not wait until book 2, I simply did not imagine I’d love this series as much as the GWS but so happy to be wrong. Best read....
September 16, 2024
Bound by Earth is book one in a new Series by Quinn Loftis. The story is full of emotions, laughter, and suspense. Quinn wrote in a way that makes you feel what the characters are going through. It will have you laughing throughout the story and leave you asking for more. Can’t wait to read the next book.
October 9, 2022
********** Contains Spoilers**********
I rated this book 3.5 Stars so I rounded it up to 4 Stars. I enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good start to the Nature Hunters Academy Series by Quinn Loftis. I’ve been a fan of Quinn’s since I was first recommended Prince of Wolves (Grey Wolves Series) on Amazon back in 2013. I’ve read that series multiple times since then. Even though I enjoyed this book, I didn’t find it as engaging as the Grey Wolves/Gypsy Healers Series. Ever since the night Tara’s parents died in a car accident she cannot feel any pain or injure herself but she has no idea why. Tara was put into foster care and completely lucked out on getting placed with her foster mum Carol. I just love how weird Tara’s BFFF Shelly is, she’s completely inappropriate and wouldn’t let Tara push her away. Even though Tara tried to get Shelly to go away multiple times, they’re now thick as Thieves, and Shelly actually helped Tara heal. When Tara and Shelly go to a recruitment fair at school and meets Elias who works at a geological testing company TGTE. Tara’s never been interested in boys but one look at Elias and something just clicks. Well that’s until he opens his mouth.
Elias doesn’t make a very good first impression with Tara but they eventually get to know each other after he apologises. Elias isn’t Tara’s only suitor, there’s Tucker the hottest guy in school that‘s also interested. The way that Elias makes Tara feel scares her, as she doesn’t know how she can feel so strong for someone she doesn’t really know. Why is Tucker wanting to date her? Yes, Elias came on a bit strong right off the bat, but considering that they’re soul bound and everything is pulling him towards Tara, and what it would mean if they didn’t join she’d be lost to the darkness and join the dark elementals. Elias is possessive but protective of Tara. I thought that Tara and Elias were cute together, and I’m looking forward to seeing their bond grow as the series continues. I’m glad that Tara took precautions when going to the prom after Tucker asked her, she told him that since they’re just going as friends, Shelly can come with them as well. They’ll meet him at the prom. Shelly is a really good friend, as even though she initially tried to get Tara to say yes to Tucker’s advances but as soon as she could see that the way Tucker looked at Tara, in a really creepy way she stuck by her. I’m looking forward to reading the next book, and finding out how one of Elias’s best friend/brother and fire elemental Ra’s journey into the Underworld to save Shelly goes. I’d recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
I rated this book 3.5 Stars so I rounded it up to 4 Stars. I enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good start to the Nature Hunters Academy Series by Quinn Loftis. I’ve been a fan of Quinn’s since I was first recommended Prince of Wolves (Grey Wolves Series) on Amazon back in 2013. I’ve read that series multiple times since then. Even though I enjoyed this book, I didn’t find it as engaging as the Grey Wolves/Gypsy Healers Series. Ever since the night Tara’s parents died in a car accident she cannot feel any pain or injure herself but she has no idea why. Tara was put into foster care and completely lucked out on getting placed with her foster mum Carol. I just love how weird Tara’s BFFF Shelly is, she’s completely inappropriate and wouldn’t let Tara push her away. Even though Tara tried to get Shelly to go away multiple times, they’re now thick as Thieves, and Shelly actually helped Tara heal. When Tara and Shelly go to a recruitment fair at school and meets Elias who works at a geological testing company TGTE. Tara’s never been interested in boys but one look at Elias and something just clicks. Well that’s until he opens his mouth.
Elias doesn’t make a very good first impression with Tara but they eventually get to know each other after he apologises. Elias isn’t Tara’s only suitor, there’s Tucker the hottest guy in school that‘s also interested. The way that Elias makes Tara feel scares her, as she doesn’t know how she can feel so strong for someone she doesn’t really know. Why is Tucker wanting to date her? Yes, Elias came on a bit strong right off the bat, but considering that they’re soul bound and everything is pulling him towards Tara, and what it would mean if they didn’t join she’d be lost to the darkness and join the dark elementals. Elias is possessive but protective of Tara. I thought that Tara and Elias were cute together, and I’m looking forward to seeing their bond grow as the series continues. I’m glad that Tara took precautions when going to the prom after Tucker asked her, she told him that since they’re just going as friends, Shelly can come with them as well. They’ll meet him at the prom. Shelly is a really good friend, as even though she initially tried to get Tara to say yes to Tucker’s advances but as soon as she could see that the way Tucker looked at Tara, in a really creepy way she stuck by her. I’m looking forward to reading the next book, and finding out how one of Elias’s best friend/brother and fire elemental Ra’s journey into the Underworld to save Shelly goes. I’d recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
August 31, 2020
In the realm of supernatural fiction, the idea of elementals hasn’t been as over done as werewolves/vampires/fae/etc. I appreciate that Quinn is branching out to different areas of the supernatural (though the Canis Lupis still have a special place in my heart). That being said, the lore of the elementalists in this series has not been fleshed out yet, even though this book reads as a background novel to set up the events of the rest of the series. I have been a long time fan of Quinn Loftis, and have read nearly all of her works. But this series hasn’t captured my attention as firmly as her others have.
I was intrigued by the elemental magic wielders, but little action happened until the last portion of the book, where things did start to pick up. It had a very slow build up to the short-lived action that ended on a cliffhanger for the next novel (which is thankfully out already). But the character interactions and intrigue of the elemental world were enough to keep one turning the pages.
On the other hand, I’m not sure how I feel about the character of Tara just yet. Even though most of the book is written in her perspective, what do we know about her beyond a tragic backstory, being a senior in high school, and having a fun but wacky best friend? Hopefully the next book will flesh out her character more. Same for her love interest, Elias. He’s the typical protective alpha male (which hey I’m always down to read about) but again he’s not that interesting yet.
My favorite character honestly was Shelly, as she adds the much needed flavor to this book. She is definitely reminiscent of Jen from Quinn’s Grey Wolves series, so I look forward to having more of her spunk in the series! Overall, I’m looking forward to the next book in the series to dive deeper into this new universe that Quinn has made.
I was intrigued by the elemental magic wielders, but little action happened until the last portion of the book, where things did start to pick up. It had a very slow build up to the short-lived action that ended on a cliffhanger for the next novel (which is thankfully out already). But the character interactions and intrigue of the elemental world were enough to keep one turning the pages.
On the other hand, I’m not sure how I feel about the character of Tara just yet. Even though most of the book is written in her perspective, what do we know about her beyond a tragic backstory, being a senior in high school, and having a fun but wacky best friend? Hopefully the next book will flesh out her character more. Same for her love interest, Elias. He’s the typical protective alpha male (which hey I’m always down to read about) but again he’s not that interesting yet.
My favorite character honestly was Shelly, as she adds the much needed flavor to this book. She is definitely reminiscent of Jen from Quinn’s Grey Wolves series, so I look forward to having more of her spunk in the series! Overall, I’m looking forward to the next book in the series to dive deeper into this new universe that Quinn has made.
March 20, 2025
Tremendous
Tremendous is the word that came into my mind when I read the last word if this novel.
This is not a shallow book of limited plot and character development with pages of intimate scenes that all together give the reader a brief time of reading pleasure. This is a book with a depth of humor, creativity, plot, and character development enriched with a handful of life truths that all together stay with me and enrich me on many levels. It is a joy to read and to think on.
Tara, our main character is so very grounded, no pun meant. She avoids mental pain, yet is honest with herself about what she is doing. She is angry and bitter, yet also capable of positive emotions and behavior because she acknowledges the negative and its impact on her. Tara is so very real and has allowed the resources in her life—Carol and Shelley—to begin to heal her enough that she can grow forward.
Shelley is an equally self aware individual, brutally honest with herself and others. She is as well developed as a character as Tara. It would be easy to write her off as a mouthy chick, but from the first words out of her mouth to Tara, I could see there was a lot more to her—a lot more.
Content:
This is a clean read, other than some language. There is no language misusing God's name. There are some brief battle scenes, fought to defend the innocent and themselves, but no gore.
I highly recommend this novel. It is well worth the reading time. Writer Loftis is a seasoned writer and it shows. I appreciate the free read and look forward to getting the rest of this series, especially after seeing Shelley's impact on Ra.
Happy reading!
~ L J Sagian
Tremendous is the word that came into my mind when I read the last word if this novel.
This is not a shallow book of limited plot and character development with pages of intimate scenes that all together give the reader a brief time of reading pleasure. This is a book with a depth of humor, creativity, plot, and character development enriched with a handful of life truths that all together stay with me and enrich me on many levels. It is a joy to read and to think on.
Tara, our main character is so very grounded, no pun meant. She avoids mental pain, yet is honest with herself about what she is doing. She is angry and bitter, yet also capable of positive emotions and behavior because she acknowledges the negative and its impact on her. Tara is so very real and has allowed the resources in her life—Carol and Shelley—to begin to heal her enough that she can grow forward.
Shelley is an equally self aware individual, brutally honest with herself and others. She is as well developed as a character as Tara. It would be easy to write her off as a mouthy chick, but from the first words out of her mouth to Tara, I could see there was a lot more to her—a lot more.
Content:
This is a clean read, other than some language. There is no language misusing God's name. There are some brief battle scenes, fought to defend the innocent and themselves, but no gore.
I highly recommend this novel. It is well worth the reading time. Writer Loftis is a seasoned writer and it shows. I appreciate the free read and look forward to getting the rest of this series, especially after seeing Shelley's impact on Ra.
Happy reading!
~ L J Sagian
February 25, 2020
An absolute must-read! Bound by Earth is my new favorite Quinn Loftis book EVER. I didn’t really know what to expect going into this new world, but I was absolutely blown away. The female characters are complex and hilarious - definitely not your typical damsels in distress. The males are just as passionate and intriguing. And the dynamics between them - whether they’re friends, family, or lovers - are all beautifully written. I relate to Tara more than any book character I’ve ever read - her view of the world and tragic experiences are not what I expected but what I needed to hear. I feel like we’re told to always be grateful and optimistic (especially as women), but unless you’ve lived a very sheltered life, that is a very unrealistic outlook. Nevertheless, we can’t let our past define us. There has to be a balance, and I think this book touched on that balance beautifully. Of course the romance alone is worth the read- Elias is a walking fantasy with a British accent (of course). What’s not to like? But I think the most surprising is the relationship between Tara and Shelly- it is so well done and really exemplifies the power of friendship. They’re not your typical set of best friends that you’ve probably read a million times, and I love that. I could go on forever about this book - it was just that good! I don’t know how Quinn keeps coming up with such amazing stories, but I hope she continues to do so because I can’t wait for more! In the meantime, I’ll be not-so-patiently rereading Bound by Earth until the next is released!
February 25, 2020
There’s an entire hidden world out there controlled by light and dark elementals. This new and exciting series from Quinn Loftis introduces the elemental world of earth, fire, air and water.
Teenage years are difficult by any standard, but when your world falls apart and you’re uprooted from everything you’ve loved and held dear, you wonder... why, why did this happen? Overwhelmed and annoyed by her Foster Mom Carol’s, kindness, Tara Thompson takes a time out and finds herself in the local park, where she is approached by the SAS.... Shelly Ann Smith is full of sass, has no filter, never puts her brain into gear before she speaks and self appoints herself as Tara’s BFFF (Best freaky friend forever)
During High School Careers Day, a whole new world is about to be introduced to them when the girls are drawn to the recruitment booth for a geological testing company manned by hotties Jax and Elias. With help from Shelly, Jax, Zuri, Elias, Aston, Liam and Ra, Tara attempts to adapt to life amongst the elementals, the discovery of her soulmate and why he needs to keep Tara in the light.
Bound by Earth: The Nature Hunters Academy Series, Book 1 is crammed with so many emotions, friendship, laughter, love, loyalty, betrayal, pain and fear are just a few examples that make this book an epic read. Taras journey, keeps you on the edge on your seat, entranced, unable to put the book down and has you screaming out for the release of Book 2, N O W!!! I love Shelly and her crazy sass and would love a BFFF like her in my life, well who wouldn’t. I proudly received an ARC copy in return for an honest review. This is a superb new YA series, which I highly recommend and happily pre ordered my own copy to prove this point. I eagerly downloaded my ebook after midnight on release day to re read. Well done Quinn Loftis 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
Teenage years are difficult by any standard, but when your world falls apart and you’re uprooted from everything you’ve loved and held dear, you wonder... why, why did this happen? Overwhelmed and annoyed by her Foster Mom Carol’s, kindness, Tara Thompson takes a time out and finds herself in the local park, where she is approached by the SAS.... Shelly Ann Smith is full of sass, has no filter, never puts her brain into gear before she speaks and self appoints herself as Tara’s BFFF (Best freaky friend forever)
During High School Careers Day, a whole new world is about to be introduced to them when the girls are drawn to the recruitment booth for a geological testing company manned by hotties Jax and Elias. With help from Shelly, Jax, Zuri, Elias, Aston, Liam and Ra, Tara attempts to adapt to life amongst the elementals, the discovery of her soulmate and why he needs to keep Tara in the light.
Bound by Earth: The Nature Hunters Academy Series, Book 1 is crammed with so many emotions, friendship, laughter, love, loyalty, betrayal, pain and fear are just a few examples that make this book an epic read. Taras journey, keeps you on the edge on your seat, entranced, unable to put the book down and has you screaming out for the release of Book 2, N O W!!! I love Shelly and her crazy sass and would love a BFFF like her in my life, well who wouldn’t. I proudly received an ARC copy in return for an honest review. This is a superb new YA series, which I highly recommend and happily pre ordered my own copy to prove this point. I eagerly downloaded my ebook after midnight on release day to re read. Well done Quinn Loftis 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
June 21, 2021
Tara is an orphan and has been placed in a foster home. She meets Shelly her first day in her new home and they become reluctant friends over time. Tara is quiet, she doesn't date, she's not interested in the guys around her and she has one close friend. Shelly is very talkative and at times annoying, she has a creative way of saying things without saying bad or unsavory words. Tara meets Elias and her whole world changes. She is drawn to Elias and he is drawn to her. One of the boys from her school starts getting friendly with her and asking her out but something about Tucker just puts Tara off. There are some freak storms out of no where, as well as earth quakes but Tara has no idea what is going on. Tucker while at the prom as friends with Tara and Shelly decides to tell Tara about Elias and the world of magic. There is fear, terror, anger, deceit, lies, lust, friendship, love and acceptance in this story. This is the first book I have read written by Quinn Loftis and I received the book as a gift. I can honestly say this is not a book I would have picked up on my own. I would have missed out on this wonderful story with amazing character's. Shelly was annoying but she reminds me of a couple people in my life which made her refreshing. The chemistry between Elias and Tara is off the charts without being risqué. I love this book and will read it again, it was that good.
March 13, 2022
Read this until a couple chapters in. Then Shelly, who had been my favorite from the moment she was introduced started to annoy me a bit and so I skimmed here and there. That changed big time with the job fair, after which point I skimmed a lot.
Some people passionately hate insta-love and/or love triangles. While neither is my favorite, I don’t usually mind them too much. I did in this book though. But now, looking back, I think what really sort of bugged me was thinking the book was going to take place predominantly after Tara was 18 and in the Terra Academy. Instead the entire book takes place before she’s out of high school.
If I were standing in a library where I could pick up copies of the next books, I’d probably pick them up and flip/thumb through them to get some closure…because, yeah, this also doesn’t have much of a conclusion. On Kindle Unlimited, maybe I’d look through the sequels, but maybe not. Skimming is a much slower process on an ereader. I have zero interest in paying for any of these though. Especially since things didn’t wrap up much in this story, but I don’t think Tara is the main focus in the next book, and it bugs me that her story has been reduced to a romance, and to the beta plot romance in someone else’s story besides.
Some people passionately hate insta-love and/or love triangles. While neither is my favorite, I don’t usually mind them too much. I did in this book though. But now, looking back, I think what really sort of bugged me was thinking the book was going to take place predominantly after Tara was 18 and in the Terra Academy. Instead the entire book takes place before she’s out of high school.
If I were standing in a library where I could pick up copies of the next books, I’d probably pick them up and flip/thumb through them to get some closure…because, yeah, this also doesn’t have much of a conclusion. On Kindle Unlimited, maybe I’d look through the sequels, but maybe not. Skimming is a much slower process on an ereader. I have zero interest in paying for any of these though. Especially since things didn’t wrap up much in this story, but I don’t think Tara is the main focus in the next book, and it bugs me that her story has been reduced to a romance, and to the beta plot romance in someone else’s story besides.
September 5, 2020
Tara is a high school girl who lives with her foster mom Carol, after losing her parents in a car accident. Tara shuts down emotionally, just trying to work through the grief and survivor guilt when Shelly comes across her at the park. Tara just wants to be left alone but Shelly will not let that happen.
Tara tries everything to get rid of Shelly but Shelly is persistant in being friends and drives Tara crazy with her zany dialect.
Tara discovers that she cant be physically hurt and proves it to Shelly by dropping a bowling ball on her foot and tried stabbing herself with scissors but everything bounces off her.
Tara and Shelly meet some guys at the career fair at school and Tara is drawn to Elonis in a way she has never been drawn to anyone before, she discovers that she is going to be a big part in the elemental world and she will be learning about the earth magic that has been dormant in her all these years waiting to come out..
This story was slow at times but it kept my interest. Shelly was so annoying, I would never have the patience to put up with someone like that.... The second book sounds interesting also.
Tara tries everything to get rid of Shelly but Shelly is persistant in being friends and drives Tara crazy with her zany dialect.
Tara discovers that she cant be physically hurt and proves it to Shelly by dropping a bowling ball on her foot and tried stabbing herself with scissors but everything bounces off her.
Tara and Shelly meet some guys at the career fair at school and Tara is drawn to Elonis in a way she has never been drawn to anyone before, she discovers that she is going to be a big part in the elemental world and she will be learning about the earth magic that has been dormant in her all these years waiting to come out..
This story was slow at times but it kept my interest. Shelly was so annoying, I would never have the patience to put up with someone like that.... The second book sounds interesting also.
February 26, 2020
I first fell in love with Quinn Loftis's books when I discovered Prince of Wolves. The characters in that book were fun, spunky, relatable, and I just couldn't get enough of them. I binge read the first six books, because that's all that was available at the time, and then began the very unfriendly waiting game. I have been a faithful fan of hers ever since and this book did not disappoint in the slightest. The characters are all fun and original. The setting of the story is in Kentucky, which is a state I've always wanted to visit but haven't had the opportunity, so this story kind of fulfilled that desire while giving me an amazing adventure to go on as well. Thank you to the author for another amazing, entertaining and fun story. I can't wait to see what happens in book 2, Sealed By Fire.
Final note: If you haven't started reading this author's books, you are Seriously missing out!!!!!
Final note: If you haven't started reading this author's books, you are Seriously missing out!!!!!
August 9, 2020
Bound by Earth was a good book but it left me feeling unsatisfied. The main character Tara is portrayed as strong despite her past traumas and social "issues". Yet the moment she meets a guy it's as if she can't think for herself anymore. Even more confusing is that in the first part of the book Tucker is portrayed as this pestering guy that keeps asking her out but when she says yes to a date he's the nice guy that she really likes but just not as much as Elias. Her personality doesn't fit with the drastic turn around she had towards Tucker or the trust that she has in Elias. While I know her relationship with Elias is supposedly explained through the soul bond, I don't think someone with abandonment issues would ever be so automatically trusting as to let someone in her house.... while alone... through her window..... without warning. Overall, I did enjoy the book I just believe that the relationships between Tara, Shelly, Elias, and Tucker have a few loose ends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2020
Quinn does it again
I'm not going to lie the book started off a bit slower than I'm used to with Quinn. The girls being thirteen threw me off as well. But it was important to the overall plot of the story. I'm still confused by who was watching Tara all those times she had a funny feeling.
This was a good read. I found myself literally laughing out loud at certain parts. Others times I got annoyed with some of the banter. It's just kind of stereotypical of Quinn's characters. I skipped some dialogue. But otherwise I loved the descriptive language and world created. I could visualize it really well. I loved the concept behind the plot even if it felt a bit Avator the last airbender to me. I love Zuri she reminds me of Peri. I was happy that Elias has a group of friends like brothers so it will be nice to see those dynamics play out instead of it all just being girlie relationships. I really enjoyed the book overall and look forward to reading the next now.
I'm not going to lie the book started off a bit slower than I'm used to with Quinn. The girls being thirteen threw me off as well. But it was important to the overall plot of the story. I'm still confused by who was watching Tara all those times she had a funny feeling.
This was a good read. I found myself literally laughing out loud at certain parts. Others times I got annoyed with some of the banter. It's just kind of stereotypical of Quinn's characters. I skipped some dialogue. But otherwise I loved the descriptive language and world created. I could visualize it really well. I loved the concept behind the plot even if it felt a bit Avator the last airbender to me. I love Zuri she reminds me of Peri. I was happy that Elias has a group of friends like brothers so it will be nice to see those dynamics play out instead of it all just being girlie relationships. I really enjoyed the book overall and look forward to reading the next now.
January 28, 2022
Well once again Quinn Loftis another great start to a series was drawn in wanting to know Tara Thompson and Shelly .As I get to know Shelly and Tara as being totally opposites and Shelly’s shear determination to win Tara over as best friends it’s funny they both have a lot of Sass but they make it work .Then comes along Elias Creed which tilts everything just a bit he has Tara curious for the first time .Then there’s Tucker who’s been trying to date Tara and what’s he really after Taras really not sure about Tucker but she drawn to Elias Creed she knows there’s something there but she’s unsure of herself.Tara realises there’s something strange happening and unsure where to go understand what’s happening .There’s a school dance and Tuckers asked her to go she strikes a deal to go but with Shelly as well .And wow what an ending can’t wait for the next book as what happens at the dance is life changing.
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