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When a vampire throws you out of a window, don’t make him your personal body guard.

But when my Nana disappears, he has no choice but to stick with me if he wants to stay alive.

My life turned upside down when I walked in on the world’s oldest vampire attacking my grandmother. Everything I knew about myself was a lie. My parents weren’t killed in a tragic car accident, my Nana wasn’t a normal little old lady, and a whole supernatural world exists parallel to ours.

I’m desperate to find Nana. Kol is desperate to break this spell that binds my life to his. Together, we have to make sure I stay alive long enough to find out who I really am before an underground war between the supernatural races tears the Shadow world apart.

134 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 25, 2020

60 people are currently reading
324 people want to read

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Aubrey Winters

8 books140 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Julia.
Author 3 books13 followers
January 8, 2021
Life Bound by Aubrey Winters Review

I received an ARC of Life Bound by Aubrey Winters in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis:

When a vampire throws you out of a window, don’t make him your personal body guard.

But when my Nana disappears, he has no choice but to stick with me if he wants to stay alive.

My life turned upside down when I walked in on the world’s oldest vampire attacking my grandmother. Everything I knew about myself was a lie. My parents weren’t killed in a tragic car accident, my Nana wasn’t a normal little old lady, and a whole supernatural world exists parallel to ours.

I’m desperate to find Nana. Kol is desperate to break this spell that binds my life to his. Together, we have to make sure I stay alive long enough to find out who I really am before an underground war between the supernatural races tears the Shadow world apart.


‘It wasn’t easy. I could feel the tendrils of panic brushing against the edge of my mind every few minutes. Forcing a deep breath, I imagined myself as a fearless heroine and the panic was a monster to be slain.’

I love this. Seeing anxiety like this. Which is true because anxiety is a monster that needs to be slain. It’s not impossible to conquer it.

‘A roar ripped from his lips when I tore the arrow out from his body. In a flash, he turned on me, eyes red and wild. Fangs bared. Crouched and ready to attack. “It’s okay,” I breathed. The arrow still gripped in one hand, I raised the other, palm up. His wide eyes narrowed at the weapon, so I dropped it. It landed with a little thud, but I didn’t back away. “It’s me. You’re okay.”

God, I have a soft spot for parts like these in books. *fans self*

“Nana used to say there’s two types of stuff that we must all carry close to us: the things that keep us alive, and the things that give us life.”

Very wise words.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” he murmured into my hair. “I won’t leave you again. I’m here.”

That cliffhanger ending cracked my heart!

Other than some errors that I came across, this book is well done, especially for a shorter novel.

Release Date: December 25, 2020

4/5 Stars!
Profile Image for Monica.
847 reviews141 followers
January 2, 2021
Initial Thoughts

I saw the author was looking for reviewers on Facebook and this book sounded right up my alley. I don’t read a ton of vampire books but I tend to really like the ones I have read.

Some Things I Liked

Banter and romance. I loved that this story had some of my favorite romance tropes: enemies to lovers, slow burn, and fantastic witty dialogue. I can’t wait to see what happens with Kol and Elle.
World building. I thought the idea of the Shadow World was really interesting and I found that the way the author incorporated the real world into it was quite well done. Often times, I find that paranormal stories set in the modern world have too many deux ex machina type of fixes. One example is money. Vampires always seems to be loaded and nobody ever questions it. I liked the way this series addressed Kol’s spending and acquiring of items.
New Adult. I also really enjoyed the fact that the characters in this series are a bit older than YA characters. I think this book could easily be enjoyed by a YA reader but it also appeals to older readers as well as readers who lean more toward adult paranormal books.
The Originals vibes. For anyone who knows the TV show The Vampire Diaries, you probably also know the spin-off, The Originals. This books gave me all kinds of those vibes and it almost felt like the redemption story I always wanted for Klaus.

One Thing I Wasn’t Crazy About

There were some minor typographical errors. One that really stood out was the reference to what I can only assume, was the wrong character in a scene.

Series Value

I would definitely continue with this series. This was a fast paced read and I read it all in one sitting. Furthermore, that ending left me speechless and I need to know more.

Final Thoughts

I really enjoyed this book. As mentioned above, I don’t read many paranormal books but I hope this can be the start me reading many more.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Recommendations for Further Reading

A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness – if you liked the idea of a salty vampire and an unsuspecting lady going on adventures, try this series. You won’t be disappointed.
Broken Souls by Toni Miranda Jones – if you liked the world building and road trip aspects of this series, try the Broken Souls series.
Profile Image for Nisareen.
458 reviews13 followers
January 11, 2021
“You will protect her with all your years.”

When Elle pays a surprise visit to see her Nana at the start of her spring semester break, she is puzzled at the sight of a car parked outside their door. On entering the house, a prickling sensation at the back of her neck is the first indication that something isn’t right. Climbing the stairs silently, she reaches the top and sees that her Nana’s bedroom door is open. A tall stranger with his back to her is arguing with her Nana, who is sitting in a circle of salt. Her Nana’s eyes widen at the sight of Elle and despite her efforts to place a magical shield around Elle, the stranger who is a vampire no less, promises retribution. In a last attempt to protect Elle, her Nana binds Elle’s life with the vampire’s and disappears into thin air before the vampire can retaliate.

Now Elle and Nikolai ‘Kol’ Black must work together to not only break the curse that binds them, but to determine the truth behind Elle’s heritage. What she discovers will open up a world of shadows, secrets, murder and betrayal that will alter the course of her life forever.

Well plotted and skilfully written, Life Bound is the first instalment of the Shadow World series and was my first introduction to the author. The plot was clever and well-structured with moments of action interspersed throughout from beginning to end.

The author has built a clever engaging world that just begs to be explored. Elle supposedly lost her parents in a car crash when she was young and has been shielded by her grandmother ever since. She’s grown up oblivious to the existence of the shadow world. Now she finds herself thrust into a parallel world in which vampires, werewolves, witches and hunters exist and learns that not only were her parents not killed in a car crash but that her grandmother was no little old lady. Now she’s caught in the middle of a supernatural war between all three factions that threatens to tear the supernatural world apart. The question is, who can she trust?

My favourite aspects of the book was the banter between Kol and Elle. Initially Kol is angry and hostile but the more time he spends with Elle, I sensed a softening in him. As more of his background was revealed I found myself sympathising with him. We learn that Kol is an Original Vampire who was Made by a coven of witches who made him commit unspeakable acts. He has no memory of his life prior to being a vampire. I’m looking forward to reading more about his background in the next instalment. I would particularly like to read from his point of view as opposed to only Elle’s.

This was an engaging read in what looks to be a promising series. Ideal for for YA fans of urban fantasy, enemies to lovers slow burn romances, vampires, witches, werewolves, curses, secrets, betrayal and mysteries.
Profile Image for Aizlynne.
793 reviews7 followers
February 3, 2021
This was a fun YA urban fantasy. I particularly appreciate Ms. Winters' take on vampires. It's a different origin for them than I have read before. Kol's character is interesting to watch evolve through his interactions with Elle. It'll be great to see where the story goes from here.
42 reviews
January 7, 2021
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book! It was a fast read that I finished within hours. I loved the snarky banter between the leads, as well as the heroine’s humorous internal dialogue. There were several moments I found myself chuckling out loud! This novel is light and well-written, and the author did a great job building out the supernatural world in a clear and concise way. It will be easy for younger readers to follow without reading as “too young” for the spirited 30+ crowd who enjoys YA fantasy (of which I am a part).

At times certain character actions or plot developments felt a bit rushed, but overall the story moved along well and in a sensible way. If you love a fast fantasy read, you’ll enjoy this debut!

I thank the author for the opportunity to review her work, and I look forward to following updates for book two!
Profile Image for Jess Boaden.
68 reviews5 followers
February 17, 2021
The concept of the story intrigued me and I did like where it was going but I couldn’t stand the main character and especially the repetition of “forgetting he was a vampire” and that.

Sometimes the story felt forced, only when all the action was happening at the end did I feel like I was reading the story not the characters, then right at the end it went back to the repeating characters.

Elle felt extremely immature to me and some of the plot holes in the book were so big I couldn’t let it go..
The one where Elle is actually fifty years old but didn’t know caused no reaction and then was forgotten! And the fact that the father was said to be a witch but is a vampire when we meet him????..

I’ll probably read the second to see what happens because my curiosity is like that, but overall, I didn’t enjoy this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Anna Farmer.
12 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2021
In Life Bound, college student Elle finds herself spending a semester break in a wildly different manner than she expected. Instead of spending a cozy break with her Nana, she finds herself pulled into the world of Shadows by an unexpected encounter with a vampire, Kol, which leads to their lives becoming bound together. The book follows Elle and Kol as they attempt to cope with these life-changing circumstances. From the beginning, Life Bound is full of plot twists that keeps the reader guessing at to what might happen next. While this is enjoyable on its own, the witty banter between Elle and Kol makes Life Bound an even more entertaining read. For fans of YA fantasy, particularly supernatural fantasy such as The Mortal Instruments or Vampire Academy, definitely give this book a try!
Profile Image for Caoimhe.
16 reviews
January 9, 2021
It isn't a uniquely themed book, but it does have several favorite tropes of mine. And I really enjoyed it.

If you're looking for something fast-paced with a mixture of betrayal, mystery, and intriuge this is definitely the book for you. I especially loved the banter and romance between the 2 leads, and this is most definitely a series I'd like to continue when the 2nd book comes out.

I wasn't exactly sure what to think at first, but the characters grew on me and for a few hours the story really took me away from reality.






****
The only thing I didn't really like about this book was that it had a few minor typographical errors but those are acceptable.
Profile Image for BookishWeeb Olivia.
350 reviews31 followers
January 11, 2021
Ok wow, this book cover is just so beautiful. It alone grabbed my interest even before I read the general summary. I'm pleased to say that I wasn't disappointed when I got around to reading it. If you want downright sexy vampires turned into your personal bodyguard, this is a book for you. This book has the perfect blend of war, funny banter, enemies to lovers (but a beautiful slow burn), great dialogue, and of course amazing world-building. If you can get by the few small typo errors, this is definitely something you should check out.
Profile Image for Jessica.
266 reviews7 followers
January 27, 2021
Great world and baddie

Great start with the reader unveiling the secrets of the new world with the main character with a solid hooking first chapter. Early on, the conversations fell into repetition or common pitfalls, but the author smoothed them out by the end. I still wanted a bit more for plot development for the last quarter, but the summary of Part two was so complete it felt like the answers were clearer than I realized. Great leads. Great world. I think I have a crush on Kol.

Profile Image for Joey Paul.
Author 26 books587 followers
April 2, 2021
I picked this up because the blurb sounded intriguing. I enjoyed the story, but felt like it was rushed in some places, and it kinda threw me out of the book. It’s not my usual kind of series, but at the same time, it’s beautifully told. The whole idea of Elle being thrown into a life that she never knew about before intrigues me, and makes me want to know more. It was a short, quick read, but I did find there were parts when I wished things had been more expanded upon. Overall, a book I enjoyed, and I might pick up the next in the series.
413 reviews5 followers
May 28, 2021
Surprising her Nana with a trip home and entering her house brings quite a shock Elle wasn't expecting.
Finding a vampire trying to hurt her nana and the fact there's witchy things going on must be mind blowing, but a curse binding her to the vampires life is worse. Elle is obviously confused about where her grandmother now is after her disappearance, however she has to leave with said vampire. Finding out about the paranormal and the shadow world means Elle needs Kol to take her there to search.
Profile Image for Gabi.
168 reviews1 follower
February 21, 2026
It was... a lot. This book describes all the action in the span of a week or so, and there's a lot of action. And revelations, and traveling, and secrets unravelled, and confusion, and lies, and a lot of other things.

So for that short amount of time it's impossible to actually get to know the character better and to get into the world smoothly and to be honest it's not enough to actually enjoy it.

It's a great start - like a backbone on which it can be developed a better book, but unfortunately it's not that now.
Profile Image for Kisa Rayen.
Author 8 books48 followers
April 14, 2024
Sassy FMC and vampires oh my

I loved this story. It was thought out really well and I love Kol. I love the different take on vampires. So much creativity in this little world. I definitely want to read the next book in the series. A sassy FMC is one of my favorite things to see in a book so I was enjoying Elizabeth's journey. Aubrey did such an amazing job. I just wish it didn't have to end. I could have kept reading forever.
Profile Image for Samantha 🍑.
73 reviews
January 6, 2025
Was hoping I’d have a good first book to start of 2025, and I’m not super impressed.

How do you keep forgetting the person you’re traveling with is a vampire when he continuously has to feed you his blood for you to survive?? And you keep feeding him yours?? Tell me how you go from a “long line of witches” to your dad suddenly being a vampire instead?

I got this book on SYK day for free, and book two at deep discount. Am I going to read the second book? Probably. Curiosity and things.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lily.
4 reviews
December 28, 2020
I really enjoyed Life Bound! It’s a fun but compelling YA urban fantasy that follows Kol and Elle as they struggle with the a curse that binds their lives together. I enjoyed watching the characters grow and there were many unexpected twists.
I found watching Elle become a stronger and more independent person empowering, and I’m excited to see what happens in the next part of this series!
372 reviews3 followers
December 29, 2020
I have read this book and giving my honest review.
A new author, with witches and Vampires.
I could not put this book down, kept me on the edge of my seat . You become part of the book, that’s why I love books if you become part of the story,
Wondering which way it was heading.
A great adventure, laughed in parts worried too. Twist or two and was surprised later on.
Not spoiling you have to read, I really hope you enjoy as much as I did .
I hope to read book 2 to find out what happens,
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Erica.
15 reviews
December 31, 2020
I enjoyed the fast pace of this supernatural story. The book's heroine, Elle, was thrown into a shadow world that she didn't know existed. (As well as literally thrown out a window at the beginning of the book.) I loved her spunk, and ability to roll with the punches, as she adapts to her new world. I also enjoyed the character development of the other main character, bad-boy vampire, Kol. I am looking forward to The Shadow World #2.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
697 reviews41 followers
January 6, 2021
Deliciously rich, a deep plot, and a great twist of the overused vampire trope. This is honestly one of the best paranormal books I have read. I thought at first it would be a love story, girl and vampire like is normally shown, but here, we get a treat. This book is about our heroine finding out who she is, about her heritage and her family, with a side of romance.
1,147 reviews13 followers
June 4, 2021
I really loved this story. I loved Ellie the best. This story just draws you in and before you know it, you finished the book.I thought Ellie and the vampire she is bound too was very intriguing. I have never read a vampire book like that before. I definitely recommend this book. It is a fabulous read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Deb.
7,634 reviews37 followers
June 12, 2021
I enjoyed reading this paranormal story with an interesting storyline and great characters. I was intrigued by the blurb and found that the story delivered an interesting, exciting and entertaining read. I really enjoyed reading this book.

I requested a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Elizabeth McDaniel.
2,383 reviews
August 26, 2021
What an interesting and exciting journey Elizabeth was forced to take with Kol in this book. Adventure,, danger, intrigue, lies and secrets are revealed as Elizabeth and Kol seek answers regarding her grandmother and family. Fun read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tiffany Rowe.
104 reviews4 followers
September 23, 2024
keeps you captivated

There’s a LOT going on in such a small book, but it does such a wonderful job of pulling you in. It gives all the details and more and just when it gets good it ends 😆. Now you gotta read the next book because you gotta know what happens next. It’s genius, really!
123 reviews3 followers
May 28, 2025
Battles

An intriguing start to a new series. If any criticism it would be to have less fighting and more story. The book takes place over one week. It's enough to give heart failure as I've never known so many fights to happen in a book. I enjoyed it enough to get the next book though.
Profile Image for Melanie.Reads.
190 reviews20 followers
March 8, 2021
Enjoyable yet aggravating

Although I did enjoy this short book it felt a little rushed and whilst the hero of the story, Kol, made up for a lot, the heroine was quite literally tstl. Hopefully Elle will be able to redeem herself for me in book 2
2,402 reviews13 followers
June 1, 2021
Interesting new urban fantasy series with lots of variety of paranormal, secrets, suspense, mystery and slow burn romance. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Christina.
Author 2 books34 followers
July 17, 2021
I adored Kol (admittingly reading book two just for him).

Elle, though, I have mixed feelings about her—if a vampire tells you a situation is shady... maybe listen to him instead of flinging yourself into dangerous situations more than once.
Profile Image for Lianne Anta.
560 reviews31 followers
December 30, 2020
Life bond was a great paranormal read about a human girl discovering that things are not as she always believed them too be. What ensues is a road trip of discovery as Elle and Kol the vampire search to discover Elle’s heritage and family history. There is attraction between the two MC’s but book one is more about Elles discovery and more a tale of coming of age. Great world building and fast scenes. I really enjoyed this one and look forward to the next book In the series.
Profile Image for Michele.
1,173 reviews
December 29, 2020
This book is a new twist to fantasy. Good story line but for some reason I didn’t get into the characters until the end. I will probably read the next one to see what happens as I have no predictions but Kols story was better for me than Elle’s so far
Profile Image for Misty Vickery.
23 reviews3 followers
January 27, 2021
Loved this book. Vampires, witches, werewolves and fairies, oh my! Can't wait for the next book so I can see what happens with Elle and Nik.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews

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