Vicious Bonds A Dark Romantic Fantasy (The Tether Series #1)

Shanora Williams — 2023

From New York Times & USA Today bestselling author Shanora Williams comes a dark romantic fantasy series of violence, chaos, angst, and a powerful love that can't be denied... WILLOW I was never meant to live an ordinary life, and when I’m dropped from the sky into a haunting forest, facing the barrel of an unknown man’s gun, I believe it to be true. Ruler of Blackwater, Caz Harlow, is the man behind the gun. He’s broody, calculating, commanding and, surprisingly, I can hear every thought that runs through his mind. Because I can, he wants me out of his world and sent back to where I came from, so he makes it his mission to find a way. It seems like a simple task, until I realize his world is unlike mine—that his is filled with violence, chaos, destruction, and gifted people who can kill you with one look. In his universe, it’s hard for a regular human like me to survive, but with Caz at my side, the possibility is higher. And the more time we spend together, the harder it is for me to ignore the connection that makes me feel alive. He says we’re not meant to be, so why does everything about him set my soul on fire? CAZ I have too many enemies to count, and when this Willow woman drops into my forest, that’s exactly what I think she is: an enemy. But then she makes a remark without even opening her mouth, and I realize I can hear her thoughts, and she can hear mine. As Monarch of Blackwater, I can’t allow her to stay. By doing so, I risk losing everything I’ve worked so hard to build, so I make it my mission to find her a way back home. But as this mission rolls on, I realize my bond with Willow goes much deeper than I ever could have imagined. And the more I reject her, the more pain I feel entering my body. However, when I lower my guard, the pain disappears and I crave her touch. This relentless, undeniable bond is becoming impossible to ignore, but I can’t give into it. For if she stays, death will come for us, and it’s up to me to choose our fate. Do I risk staying with her and putting her life at constant risk, or do I sacrifice the one thing that brings me happiness and let her go? Vicious Bonds is book one of the ongoing Tether Series. It’s a romantic fantasy with violent acts, possibly triggering events, and ends with a cliffhanger. Please read at your own discretion.

Reviews

Nouran Hazem@nouranreads

Jul 1, 2023

3.75 ⭐️ I’m really stuck between 3 and 4 ⭐️ this was really fun and fast-paced and I really enjoyed the vibes of the world in the book.. this made me wanna watch peaky blinders!! I loved both willow and Caz (who kind of reminded me of Kaz Brekker I have a type clearly 😌) and the plot was pretty interesting and I’m excited to see how it goes from here after that cliffhanger.. I have to say the writing wasn’t my favorite and it was a little too insta love but it’s fated mates so it makes sense..

Nouran@nouran2003

Apr 19, 2023

Genesis (@whisperingchapters)@whisperingchapters

Feb 11, 2023

A brand new Dark Romantasy has released and I’m here to put it on your radar!

🖤 Dark Romantasy

❤️‍🔥 Slow Burn

😮‍💨 Angsty

👩🏾‍🤝‍👨🏻 Interracial Love

😏 Telepathic Sex

🚬 Thomas Shelby

🙌🏽 Morally Grey Grumpy Anti-Hero

💞 Fated Mates

I’ll be honest, when I started the book, it was incredibly slow, but knowing this is a fantasy series, I understand the world-building needed its time to be set up. Once things started moving, I was pleasantly surprised and eager to know more!

Willow is going through life on Earth when she suddenly ends up in another universe and encounters Caz and his pet wolf. While trying to send Willow back, they soon discover they are Tethered—fated mates. Unfortunately, there’s something out to destroy them and suck the joy and life out of them, all because of their Tether.

“I’ve come to realize there are a lot of things about Willow that I'd never do for anyone else. She’s just…different. That’s all I can say. She’s different and she’s grown on me.”

You guys, Caz, (picture Thomas Shelby 😏) fought hard to not like Willow. His brooding and grumpiness was always present around her and he made it known he wanted her gone from his world. Because they’re mates, the pull is constantly there and getting stronger!

Caz is extremely sensitive touch, making him hurt every time someone touches him. But who’s touch does he find comfort in? Willow’s! And don’t get me started on the telepathic sex! I had no idea how this would work, but boy, did it work! 🔥

“Your touch,” I groan. “F*ck, Willow. How am I so weak for it?”

To say I’m intrigued by this new fantasy series is an understatement. The side characters shone bright in this story and I’m looking forward to see what else they all get into. Also, I need answers after that ending!

Rating: 3.75/5 ⭐️

Spice: 1.5/5 🌶️