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Dark Arts #1
Shadowbound
When a powerful relic goes missing from a secret society that dabbles in the occult, Miss Ianthe Martin is charged with finding it at all costs. She needs help, but all clues point to someone on the inside being the thief. The only sorcerer she knows that can't possibly be involved, is the very man she saw locked in Bedlam a year ago...
The mad, bad, dangerous Earl of Rathbourne.
When the seductive Miss Martin appears in his Bedlam cell, Rathbourne fears he's finally lost his mind. The devilish sorceress played a hand in his incarceration, and now she comes asking for help? Perhaps she should begin by begging for mercy...
But Ianthe's offer of freedom is one he can't refuse, although he has a clause of his own to add. She may bind him with her power–the only way to still the demons haunting him–but for every day spent under her command, the nights will be his... to wreak delicious revenge on her willing flesh.
The mad, bad, dangerous Earl of Rathbourne.
When the seductive Miss Martin appears in his Bedlam cell, Rathbourne fears he's finally lost his mind. The devilish sorceress played a hand in his incarceration, and now she comes asking for help? Perhaps she should begin by begging for mercy...
But Ianthe's offer of freedom is one he can't refuse, although he has a clause of his own to add. She may bind him with her power–the only way to still the demons haunting him–but for every day spent under her command, the nights will be his... to wreak delicious revenge on her willing flesh.
377 pages, ebook
First published May 8, 2016
223 people are currently reading
3,288 people want to read
About the author
Bec McMaster
64books3,446followersKidnapped by a dread pirate when she was a child, USA Today Bestselling Author Bec McMaster was raised on myth and legend, and offered her younger siblings to the goblin king many a time. Unfortunately, he did not accept.
Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vampires, though in all her daydreams, she’s the one rescuing them.
Bec lives happily-ever-after with her very own hero and princess-in-training in the wilds of Australia, where she can often be found drinking tea or plotting her next travel adventure.
Escape the ordinary at
Join Bec's mailing list at for all the latest news on releases, exclusive excerpts, cover reveals, and epilogues.
Newest Release: CROWN OF DARKNESS (Available now)
Next release: MASTER OF STORMS (Legends of the Storm #5--coming January, 2021)
Where to start?
If you want deliciously dark fae princes, then try Dark Court Rising or Court of Dreams.
For sexy dragon shifters, see Legends of the Storm.
Sorcery and magic?
Try the Dark Arts series.
Kick-bustle ladies-saving-the-day steampunk romance?
Then check out London Steampunk and the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series.
For rocket-fuelled post-apocalyptic romance with a twist on the werewolf theme, then read the Burned Lands.
Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vampires, though in all her daydreams, she’s the one rescuing them.
Bec lives happily-ever-after with her very own hero and princess-in-training in the wilds of Australia, where she can often be found drinking tea or plotting her next travel adventure.
Escape the ordinary at
Join Bec's mailing list at for all the latest news on releases, exclusive excerpts, cover reveals, and epilogues.
Newest Release: CROWN OF DARKNESS (Available now)
Next release: MASTER OF STORMS (Legends of the Storm #5--coming January, 2021)
Where to start?
If you want deliciously dark fae princes, then try Dark Court Rising or Court of Dreams.
For sexy dragon shifters, see Legends of the Storm.
Sorcery and magic?
Try the Dark Arts series.
Kick-bustle ladies-saving-the-day steampunk romance?
Then check out London Steampunk and the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series.
For rocket-fuelled post-apocalyptic romance with a twist on the werewolf theme, then read the Burned Lands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
May 18, 2016
4.5 stars - A prophecy, three artifacts and three brothers... Shadowbound - set in different more magic centric world from McMaster's London Steampunk series - has a very steamy enemies to lovers pairing at its core, and a battle against those who seek power and vengeance in the series arc.
Even though the leading man Lucien is initially a hostile partner to leading lady Ianthe, and makes sex part of the price for his magical support in retrieving a stolen artifact, I thought that the way that their relationship changes over the course of the story was really well done. And I appreciated that the revelation of a 'big secret' didn't take the predictable path of so many romances. And I liked the balance of the romance against the larger story, including the development of a secondary pair who look to take center stage in a future book and the magical battle at the climax of the story.
I really enjoyed Shadowbound and I am already looking forward to the next two books. Apparently the brother who gets the least screen time is up next, hope he is as awesome as the other two.
(Complementary copy courtesy of the author.)
Even though the leading man Lucien is initially a hostile partner to leading lady Ianthe, and makes sex part of the price for his magical support in retrieving a stolen artifact, I thought that the way that their relationship changes over the course of the story was really well done. And I appreciated that the revelation of a 'big secret' didn't take the predictable path of so many romances. And I liked the balance of the romance against the larger story, including the development of a secondary pair who look to take center stage in a future book and the magical battle at the climax of the story.
I really enjoyed Shadowbound and I am already looking forward to the next two books. Apparently the brother who gets the least screen time is up next, hope he is as awesome as the other two.
(Complementary copy courtesy of the author.)
August 13, 2019
⭐️3 stars⭐️
"I have never had an enemy," Cleo mused. "I wonder who will win, the one who sees the future, or the one who clings to the past?"
"I have never had an enemy," Cleo mused. "I wonder who will win, the one who sees the future, or the one who clings to the past?"
May 15, 2016
И вновь Лондон конца 19 века, только на сей раз без голубокровных, вервульфенов, Эшелона и прочего, зато с магами, ритуалами, реликвиями, демонами, ожившими каменными львами и горгульями, пророками, заклинаниями и прочим. Такой знакомый и такой новый мир.
Три брата. Три жертвы. Три реликвии.
И Лондон будет гореть в огне.
Когда знаки предсказывают беду и пропадает один из опаснейших артефактов, Ианта Мартин отправляется в Бедлам, куда не столь давно помогла упечь одержимого мага - Люсьена Ретберна. В обмен на свободу Ретберн соглашает помочь с поисками вора и заключает с Иантой магическую сделку: он будет служить ее щитом, она - его якорем. А еще он умудряется обернуть клятву себе на пользу и заполучить в полное распоряжение все ночи Ианты.
У каждого из низ свои цели и мотивы, и далеко не все очевидны и понятны с первых строк.
Ретберн мечтает о мести, но выбирает для этого странный путь.
Ианта же хочет довериться хоть кому-нибудь, но сомневается, что жаждущий мести маг - лучшая кандидатура. Тем более, их связывает гораздо больше, чем Люсьен подозревает.
Очень-очень-очень крутая история. Я помню свои впечатления от "Поцелуя стали" и "Лондонского стимпанка" в целом. Помню, как влюбилась в стиль и слог автора, в созданный ею мир, в ярких героев и искрометные отношения.
Здесь впечатления в разы сильнее, если такое возможно. Да, это прежде всего ЛР, и чувствам героев уделено много внимания. Как и эротической составляющей. Откровенных сцен достаточно, но они красивые и не пошлые. Плюс никакого жеманства, трепещущих девственниц и прочего. Эмоции и секс имеют для магов определенное значение, потому автор не водит хороводы, но и в откровенную и беспросветную эротику не ударяется. Сюжет целостен и уравновешен.
Помимо прочего нам весьма красочно описывают мир, ненавязчиво, но наглядно. В том числе через эпиграфы с цитатами из всяческих трактатов, законов и просто высказываний персонажей.
Злодейка тоже получилась на загляденье. И также намечены завязки для следующих книг серии. Мне дико интересно, что же ждет Себастьяна и Клео. Он - мощнейший маг, на которого мать еще в 12 лет нацепила подчиняющий ошейник и с тех пор заставляет его творить всякое... Она - провидица, которой отец в 5 лет завязал глаза, ибо было сказано, что если она еще хоть раз увидит мир, то лишится дара. С тех пор Клео слепа, но видит больше, чем многие. Здесь их отношения зарождаются, но герои уже раскрыты весьма неплохо.
Также любопытна линия Дрейка и его любимой Эли. Ну и его отношения с тремя внебрачными сыновьями)) Отец-молодец, блин.
Думаю, и юные волшебницы Тея и Луиза тоже еще сыграют свои роли.
Как и отец Ианты - создатель антимагического комитета, уверенный, что магия - проделки дьявола и что всех магов нужно уничтожить.
Ну и, конечно, Эдриан Бишоп - младшенький из упомянутых трех братьев. Именно он станет главным героем следующей книги - "Bloodbound". Очень жду)))
Несколько сумбурно, но у меня всегда так с понравившимися романами xDDD
Три брата. Три жертвы. Три реликвии.
И Лондон будет гореть в огне.
Когда знаки предсказывают беду и пропадает один из опаснейших артефактов, Ианта Мартин отправляется в Бедлам, куда не столь давно помогла упечь одержимого мага - Люсьена Ретберна. В обмен на свободу Ретберн соглашает помочь с поисками вора и заключает с Иантой магическую сделку: он будет служить ее щитом, она - его якорем. А еще он умудряется обернуть клятву себе на пользу и заполучить в полное распоряжение все ночи Ианты.
У каждого из низ свои цели и мотивы, и далеко не все очевидны и понятны с первых строк.
Ретберн мечтает о мести, но выбирает для этого странный путь.
Ианта же хочет довериться хоть кому-нибудь, но сомневается, что жаждущий мести маг - лучшая кандидатура. Тем более, их связывает гораздо больше, чем Люсьен подозревает.
Очень-очень-очень крутая история. Я помню свои впечатления от "Поцелуя стали" и "Лондонского стимпанка" в целом. Помню, как влюбилась в стиль и слог автора, в созданный ею мир, в ярких героев и искрометные отношения.
Здесь впечатления в разы сильнее, если такое возможно. Да, это прежде всего ЛР, и чувствам героев уделено много внимания. Как и эротической составляющей. Откровенных сцен достаточно, но они красивые и не пошлые. Плюс никакого жеманства, трепещущих девственниц и прочего. Эмоции и секс имеют для магов определенное значение, потому автор не водит хороводы, но и в откровенную и беспросветную эротику не ударяется. Сюжет целостен и уравновешен.
Помимо прочего нам весьма красочно описывают мир, ненавязчиво, но наглядно. В том числе через эпиграфы с цитатами из всяческих трактатов, законов и просто высказываний персонажей.
Злодейка тоже получилась на загляденье. И также намечены завязки для следующих книг серии. Мне дико интересно, что же ждет Себастьяна и Клео. Он - мощнейший маг, на которого мать еще в 12 лет нацепила подчиняющий ошейник и с тех пор заставляет его творить всякое... Она - провидица, которой отец в 5 лет завязал глаза, ибо было сказано, что если она еще хоть раз увидит мир, то лишится дара. С тех пор Клео слепа, но видит больше, чем многие. Здесь их отношения зарождаются, но герои уже раскрыты весьма неплохо.
Также любопытна линия Дрейка и его любимой Эли. Ну и его отношения с тремя внебрачными сыновьями)) Отец-молодец, блин.
Думаю, и юные волшебницы Тея и Луиза тоже еще сыграют свои роли.
Как и отец Ианты - создатель антимагического комитета, уверенный, что магия - проделки дьявола и что всех магов нужно уничтожить.
Ну и, конечно, Эдриан Бишоп - младшенький из упомянутых трех братьев. Именно он станет главным героем следующей книги - "Bloodbound". Очень жду)))
Несколько сумбурно, но у меня всегда так с понравившимися романами xDDD
May 20, 2016
Shadowbound is set in basically the same time and locale setting as McMaster's "London Steampunk" series, but with a magical 'dark arts' element. I really liked this one, and I think it's going to be a great new series, with a couple of quibbles. The wordbuilding was impressive; and when Ianthe and Lucien were together, the story was great. I was completely into their hunt for the relic, and their steamy times were explosive. Both were mysterious characters, but Ianthe was a bit more secretive.
Some of the other parts of the book, not so much. There were a number of characters introduced, and a were little hard to keep up with. Also, some of the subplots took a bit away from the main story; and a few of the scenes seemed to be designed more to set up the next book(s) than telling the story in this one. Small things, and didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book.
Overall, a good book. Looking forward to reading about the other two brothers. I don't know if the series is just a trilogy for the brothers; or if more is planned in this world.
Thank you to Melindeeloo for the loan...
Some of the other parts of the book, not so much. There were a number of characters introduced, and a were little hard to keep up with. Also, some of the subplots took a bit away from the main story; and a few of the scenes seemed to be designed more to set up the next book(s) than telling the story in this one. Small things, and didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book.
Overall, a good book. Looking forward to reading about the other two brothers. I don't know if the series is just a trilogy for the brothers; or if more is planned in this world.
Thank you to Melindeeloo for the loan...
January 19, 2018
I’m a big fan of Bec McMaster so I will read pretty much anything she writes. The Dark Arts series is much like her London Steampunk one. Although it follows different characters in a different world, there are some similarities like the setting and the complex worldbuilding. You’ll also see great characterization from McMaster, as I think she writes some of the best heroes and heroines out there.
Speaking of the main couple, Ianthe and Rathbourne are a really good pair. At first, I wondered how they would get along because they seem to be polar opposites, but they do have a past that binds them together, which helps in moving things along. I was a particular fan of Rathbourne. He has quite a few great lines, some of which are very steamy. He’s definitely a hero that you need to watch out for.
One of the standout things about this book is the worldbuilding. It’s set in London, but explores the magical and more sinister areas. It’s certainly fascinating to read, but I did think it was a bit confusing in the beginning. There’s already quite a bit going on in the very beginning so I think that’s where things could have been explained better. But overall, I do really like the fact that the author made it complex. It keeps things interesting.
So if you like Paranormal Romance with a bit of Steampunk elements, then you definitely need to check Bec McMaster out.
April 3, 2018
Once upon a long, long time ago before I had even heard of Bec McMaster and fallen in love , I had gotten cause the cover was so pretty and I happen to be a sucker for arranged/forced marriage trope.
But alas, as is the case with all books sitting on the TBR shelf, I forgot about it. Oh, I saw the cover every so often on my reader but the timing was just never quite right for me to read it.
Until.
A couple weeks ago scrolling through my shelf I saw a book. A very pretty book. With a very pretty cover and a very pretty couple on the cover and by total happen stance I read the author's name and . . . blanked out.
It was my beloved McMaster and I had had no clue.
So it was no surprise when I jumped at it.
But oh dear reader, it was not all rainbows and sunshine and happily ever afters. For was the third book in the trilogy and woe is me cause it wasn't even a stand alone in a series and now I was forced into reading two other books just so it would make sense.
Drama much? As if reading a McMaster's is ever a chore.
And that, is why I'm reading this series that I didn't even know existed and boy am I glad cause once again Bec has done it. I'm of a mind to believe that Bec is either employing a demon or involved in some form of the dark arts cause damn, the level of talent and skill is unreal. Also, cause I don't do steampunk and this series will probably end up making a junkie outta me.
The plot reminded me a lot of another favourite I'd very recently read. 's , what with a desperate woman releasing a man/demon/sorcerer from his prison, in this case Bedlam and binding him to herself to gain his cooperation and powers to aid in her search/rescue whatever.
But that's probably where the similarities end other than me loving both book MCs. Where Nadine's book was intense but light, airy, snarky and downright hilarious, Shadowbound was a lot more serious with dire circumstances but each book oddly fit.
Even though I prefer a snarky, hilarious plot, I could honestly appreciate the depth to this book. It dealt with a lot of real world perspectives and problems and I loved how each was combated, it wasn't ridiculed and made light of. Everything had a place and importance and treated and resolved in ways that made me wish more people would read so they might learn something. It's not only text books that teach you, these books termed as a waste of time are very important in understanding the people around you. So many things and hurts wouldn't happen if people would just read.
So kudos to Bec for a job well done and for forcing me into writing a review when I'm still in a funk but just can't help myself. I really enjoyed this especially because of Cleo and Sebastian's POV (our book three MCs). At one point I actually had to check the cover again to make sure I hadn't accidentally opened the other book. xD
If it hasn't been obvious till this point (Are you dense?!) I can't wait for book three! xD :p
3.5 stars
But alas, as is the case with all books sitting on the TBR shelf, I forgot about it. Oh, I saw the cover every so often on my reader but the timing was just never quite right for me to read it.
Until.
A couple weeks ago scrolling through my shelf I saw a book. A very pretty book. With a very pretty cover and a very pretty couple on the cover and by total happen stance I read the author's name and . . . blanked out.
It was my beloved McMaster and I had had no clue.
So it was no surprise when I jumped at it.
But oh dear reader, it was not all rainbows and sunshine and happily ever afters. For was the third book in the trilogy and woe is me cause it wasn't even a stand alone in a series and now I was forced into reading two other books just so it would make sense.
Drama much? As if reading a McMaster's is ever a chore.
And that, is why I'm reading this series that I didn't even know existed and boy am I glad cause once again Bec has done it. I'm of a mind to believe that Bec is either employing a demon or involved in some form of the dark arts cause damn, the level of talent and skill is unreal. Also, cause I don't do steampunk and this series will probably end up making a junkie outta me.
The plot reminded me a lot of another favourite I'd very recently read. 's , what with a desperate woman releasing a man/demon/sorcerer from his prison, in this case Bedlam and binding him to herself to gain his cooperation and powers to aid in her search/rescue whatever.
But that's probably where the similarities end other than me loving both book MCs. Where Nadine's book was intense but light, airy, snarky and downright hilarious, Shadowbound was a lot more serious with dire circumstances but each book oddly fit.
Even though I prefer a snarky, hilarious plot, I could honestly appreciate the depth to this book. It dealt with a lot of real world perspectives and problems and I loved how each was combated, it wasn't ridiculed and made light of. Everything had a place and importance and treated and resolved in ways that made me wish more people would read so they might learn something. It's not only text books that teach you, these books termed as a waste of time are very important in understanding the people around you. So many things and hurts wouldn't happen if people would just read.
So kudos to Bec for a job well done and for forcing me into writing a review when I'm still in a funk but just can't help myself. I really enjoyed this especially because of Cleo and Sebastian's POV (our book three MCs). At one point I actually had to check the cover again to make sure I hadn't accidentally opened the other book. xD
If it hasn't been obvious till this point (Are you dense?!) I can't wait for book three! xD :p
3.5 stars
November 24, 2016
"When the red comet rules the skies, the Prime shall fall. A new Prime shall Ascend to the head of the Order. Three sons. Three relics. Three sacrifices. Only then can the Prime be torn down.
There is but one chance to save them. The Snake at the Breast shall cast the first roll of the die, setting the Game into motion, but might be all that holds back the pall of madness. The Thief shall wear a false face, but wield a true heart; and only the Blind One can see how to save the heart of the Mirror."
I loved this magical world the author has created, with the danger to the three brothers, enemies who are determined to get their vengeance, the current Prime who needs to keep his sons safe and all the key players determined to stop the enemies before London drowns in chaos and evil. I also loved the historical setting to this world.
“Sometimes it feels inevitable." Her voice dropped to a whisper. "You. Me. Sometimes it feels like fate. No matter what I do, I somehow always keep coming back to you."
Then there is the main characters Ianthe Martin and Lucien Rathbourne, one of the sons from the prophecy. A year ago Ianthe was part of the group who had Lucien locked in Bedlam after he summoned a demon against his will. But according to the Prime, Lucien is their only hope and Ianthe will have to convince him to help them, and allow her to bind him to her for safety. But Lucien wants revenge against Ianthe, and his condition to his assistance is that she must spend her nights with him. He will get his revenge, one wicked night at a time. I didn’t realise this was a second chance romance, so of course the romance didn’t work for me :-( I had a hard time liking Lucien, who was too OTT dominant for me, and their hate/lust interactions in the beginning were very difficult to read. I did like how their relationship slowly changed, how he came to like her, to understand her better, and their intense chemistry was very hot, but there was just too many things that bothered me about them as a couple.
"I cannot touch you, Cleo, for a thousand reasons. Least of all is your father and my mother. The irony of this situation is that in trying to protect you from them, I have brought you into the realm of a far more dangerous predator."
"Who?"
"Myself." Another faint touch brushed her hair, as if he couldn't seem to help himself. "I'm dangerous, Cleo."
"I don't believe that."
"Yes, but you've only seen one side to me."
My favorite part of this book was two secondary characters Cleo and Sebastian. Cleo who is a seer, who has gone through life blindfolded since she was five years old, because it was seen that she would lose her gift is she ever saw the world again, and her father refuses to lose his valuable asset. And Sebastian who has been caged/enslaved by his mother since childhood, forced to do her monstrous bidding. Cleo with her hope and her kindness, and Sebastian who only understands cruelty. I really can’t wait to read more about them.
I loved Bec McMaster’s London Steampunk series, and once again she has shown how excellent she is at world-building. While the main romance didn’t work for me, I loved the world and the secondary characters, and I can’t wait to read the next book. A must read for all fans of this author, and for those readers who like their historical romances to have some paranormal elements.
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
May 21, 2016Rating: DNF
I didn't finish this one but I will say that it is far more about the sex and romance than the plot. And the plot is interesting enough, as are all the secondary characters, but I just couldn't get invested in this. Perhaps McMaster is just not for me. Plus, it's so hard to care for characters when they have their own backstories with each other and are ripping each others clothes off all the time. I'm all about the sexual tension and slow-burn and character development and...this book isn't that. Not bad, but just not for me.
I didn't finish this one but I will say that it is far more about the sex and romance than the plot. And the plot is interesting enough, as are all the secondary characters, but I just couldn't get invested in this. Perhaps McMaster is just not for me. Plus, it's so hard to care for characters when they have their own backstories with each other and are ripping each others clothes off all the time. I'm all about the sexual tension and slow-burn and character development and...this book isn't that. Not bad, but just not for me.
Want to read
March 15, 2017OMG WHAT'S THIS!!!???? A new series by Bec McMaster?? ME WANTS IT, ME WANTS IT NOWW!!!! *screams*
June 12, 2017
more like 1.5 but I still like the overarching mystery.
Seeing that I don't have much time, there's only one way to describe this book:
Look, Shadowbound needed some serious editing. The world building alone was shoddy; with terminologies thrown around without much info given.
What was really disappointing was Ianthe and Lucien's relationship. Well, they say Tessa Dare is always so quick in pushing her characters into one. But theses two had two - yes two days - to confess their undying love for each other. To be fair, they do share a history, but a) it's rather shaky and b) if even I (who can overlook Tessa Dare's UPS style character development) end up scratching my head, something must have been truly rushed. Well, my two cents anyway.
That said, haha(!), I'll continue with the series. Free sleeping pills are hard to come by.
Seeing that I don't have much time, there's only one way to describe this book:
Look, Shadowbound needed some serious editing. The world building alone was shoddy; with terminologies thrown around without much info given.
What was really disappointing was Ianthe and Lucien's relationship. Well, they say Tessa Dare is always so quick in pushing her characters into one. But theses two had two - yes two days - to confess their undying love for each other. To be fair, they do share a history, but a) it's rather shaky and b) if even I (who can overlook Tessa Dare's UPS style character development) end up scratching my head, something must have been truly rushed. Well, my two cents anyway.
That said, haha(!), I'll continue with the series. Free sleeping pills are hard to come by.
March 10, 2018
I love a tortured hero and Lucian definitely fit the bill! Ianthe was sharp and expedient and I liked how Lucien brought out her softer edges. And the romance was so sexy! Lucien had a mouth on him that could rev some engines for sure! Along with some wicked smart world building, there’s a great supporting cast of characters and a very entertaining storyline to kick off a strong start to the Dark Arts series!
June 2, 2023
An other one on my to be read pile to tackle..
Boring, mostly; unbelievable too. Characterwise I mean. The world at risk and most of the book is about shagging. Between strangers. All the set up was idiotic and barely thought. What vengeance? About what? All of it wasn’t thought about IMO. Too many threads, too many stories, none of which well formed. The children were a fantasy in themselves (Louisa and the cassandra). The love story a sham. The plot dragging because of all that.
Let’s not talk about the villains� and death defying ones�
So, not my cup. I’m not reading the rest of the series. Cliffhanger or not.
Boring, mostly; unbelievable too. Characterwise I mean. The world at risk and most of the book is about shagging. Between strangers. All the set up was idiotic and barely thought. What vengeance? About what? All of it wasn’t thought about IMO. Too many threads, too many stories, none of which well formed. The children were a fantasy in themselves (Louisa and the cassandra). The love story a sham. The plot dragging because of all that.
Let’s not talk about the villains� and death defying ones�
So, not my cup. I’m not reading the rest of the series. Cliffhanger or not.
May 24, 2016
3.75 stars rounded up
I highly enjoyed Bec McMaster's London Steampunk series and cannot wait to get my hand on her new titles. I was pleasantly surprised when I received her newsletter, saying that there were two new series in the works. So when this one was released (the cover is so pretty!!!), I immediately pressed that click button.
To be honest, it took me a while to get into it. I read it in the course of 5 days which was quite a long time for me since in average I can finish a novel within 1-3 days. I guess I needed to familiarize myself with the world that McMaster built in this one, a combination of this being a fantasy along with the historical setting. Once I got the hang of it, well, I'm FULLY invested in this series.
Lucien and Ianthe were great couple -- the whole deal of "at night, you belong to me" was pretty wicked, but I liked how they slowly found their trust in one another. Ianthe had the upper hand since she was keeping that big secret from Lucien () but then I thought they ended up in equal partnership. I loved the idea of Ianthe being Lucien's Anchor, and Lucien being Ianthe's Shield.
I loved the whole curses, premonitions, demons, and villainess that this series offer. I cannot wait to find out what will happen next, especially with that Epilogue chapter. Too bad that the couple I'm most looking forward to (Cleo and Sebastian), will not have their story told until book #3.
I highly enjoyed Bec McMaster's London Steampunk series and cannot wait to get my hand on her new titles. I was pleasantly surprised when I received her newsletter, saying that there were two new series in the works. So when this one was released (the cover is so pretty!!!), I immediately pressed that click button.
To be honest, it took me a while to get into it. I read it in the course of 5 days which was quite a long time for me since in average I can finish a novel within 1-3 days. I guess I needed to familiarize myself with the world that McMaster built in this one, a combination of this being a fantasy along with the historical setting. Once I got the hang of it, well, I'm FULLY invested in this series.
Lucien and Ianthe were great couple -- the whole deal of "at night, you belong to me" was pretty wicked, but I liked how they slowly found their trust in one another. Ianthe had the upper hand since she was keeping that big secret from Lucien () but then I thought they ended up in equal partnership. I loved the idea of Ianthe being Lucien's Anchor, and Lucien being Ianthe's Shield.
I loved the whole curses, premonitions, demons, and villainess that this series offer. I cannot wait to find out what will happen next, especially with that Epilogue chapter. Too bad that the couple I'm most looking forward to (Cleo and Sebastian), will not have their story told until book #3.
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August 28, 2016
Just about 15 words
As much as i would love to say it was the book of the month, it didn't really captivate me. Yes, it was Steampunk, and yes, it had what i like, but it just didn't really put me out there.
As much as i would love to say it was the book of the month, it didn't really captivate me. Yes, it was Steampunk, and yes, it had what i like, but it just didn't really put me out there.
March 19, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I am not sure if where it lies in her writing journey, but I enjoyed the people and the story of this book even more than the other series of hers that I've read.
As my library is currently closed I may have to break my own code and buy the next book without knowing if I will like it...
As my library is currently closed I may have to break my own code and buy the next book without knowing if I will like it...
July 4, 2018
Buddy read with Aly 💙.
August 14, 2023
Loves:
-London, 1894. A society that has sorcery, apprentices, gollums, and loads of magical warring.
-The Order that was created with three different types of disciplines that sorcerers were categorized under.
-The bonds that can be formed between sorcerers.
-The overarching plot about the prophecy that is going to occur.
-The characters! Both good and bad.
-Ianthe and Lucien’s relationship.
Non-loves:
-Ianthe and Lucien’s relationship. Nothing against sexual insta-love but this was 19% in and then it was so, so frequent. Honestly it is 50% story 50% sexy times and very, very steamy. One one hand I get it and on the other hand I was wishing for more story on the other characters.
-London, 1894. A society that has sorcery, apprentices, gollums, and loads of magical warring.
-The Order that was created with three different types of disciplines that sorcerers were categorized under.
-The bonds that can be formed between sorcerers.
-The overarching plot about the prophecy that is going to occur.
-The characters! Both good and bad.
-Ianthe and Lucien’s relationship.
Non-loves:
-Ianthe and Lucien’s relationship. Nothing against sexual insta-love but this was 19% in and then it was so, so frequent. Honestly it is 50% story 50% sexy times and very, very steamy. One one hand I get it and on the other hand I was wishing for more story on the other characters.
May 16, 2019
I adore this author. Read her Steampunk Series, all TEN books back to back. But this one...the Struggle Was Real.
DNF 62%.
The sex was there.
The romance was there.
The author’s unique voice was there.
But. Bored senseless. Think it was the magic...never cared for it...even when I was younger and I’d bump into David Copperfield who lived in the neighborhood, I wouldn’t give a shit.
DNF 62%.
The sex was there.
The romance was there.
The author’s unique voice was there.
But. Bored senseless. Think it was the magic...never cared for it...even when I was younger and I’d bump into David Copperfield who lived in the neighborhood, I wouldn’t give a shit.
January 4, 2017
“Ianthe leaned closer and whispered in his ear. ‘I need a Shield, and you need an Anchor. Allow this binding, and once we are done, you shall be free to exact your revenge on all of those who saw you placed here. I swear.�"
Rating: 3
McMaster has created an interesting new world, government, and society surrounding magic. While GR labels this steampunk and paranormal romance, I think it leans more towards paranormal romance. It does have a 19th century London with sorcery, but it does not have a steampunk feel to it in my opinion. With the magic, McMaster has done a rather good job of establishing new rules of magic, and for including other elements, like prophecies, bonds (one which will be established between the two main characters), dangerous, missing relics, summoning of demons, etc.
I have to admit that it has taken me a while to warm up to the plot in the first 30%, especially when the plot carried on while giving new terms, people, and places, and I’m like, “What?? Who?? What are we talking about?� Luckily, as the story progressed, things start clicking and making sense.
The story starts out with Ianthe, our main girl, forming a magical bond with Lucien (who is obviously going to be the love interest). In exchange for his help to find some stolen, magical relics, she frees him from an asylum, and he can finally get revenge on the people who put him there in the first place. I was pretty excited about the asylum part, but let’s be clear � he’s not insane (don’t expect some Joker or Penguin situation), but he does have some serious baggage. As the story progresses, this book becomes less about Lucien finding vengeance, and more about him and Ianthe discovering each other and healing past pain. I do admire how Lucien and Ianthe learn to rely on each other when they are navigating their mission. Admittedly, their relationship starts out filled with hatred and lust, but as secrets are revealed, they both begin to trust and change. I like seeing how their relationship has evolved; it can be cheesy, but it still ends up being rather sweet.
NOTE: Will have heavy sexual content right off the bat (which can be disconcerting if you expect the characters to like and trust each other first before they have sex. In this case, sex first and then they really start developing a relationship after.)
The protagonist, Ianthe � I like her. I won’t say I love her, but there are some admirable aspects about her. She was thrown out of her house at 17, and now she is a grown woman who is independent and powerful, and she works for her own money. As for Lucien, I like his character too. You can sympathize with him because he has no one in the world, and he has not had the best experience with family. They both connect in their loneliness and insecurities, and I love that they help each other get past it. Lucien is for the most part very supportive and I just love how for McMaster’s novels, you can always expect an all-consuming love without love triangles.
However, I am somehow more intrigued by the side characters, Cleo and Sebastian. She is a prophet whose father has forced her to wear a blindfold since the age of 5, and he is a powerful sorcerer who has been controlled, manipulated, and abused by his mother. She is innocent and sheltered, but she sees horrifying truths in her visions that put her beyond her years, and he has committed sins that he has had no choice in. I don’t know, but I’m shipping it already, and I am super excited to find out more about them. They are going to be in the 2nd book, too, I believe, but not as the main characters.
"’I have never had an enemy,� she mused. ‘I wonder who will win, the one who sees the future, or the one who clings to the past?’�
Overall, I have enjoyed Shadowbound. It is slow and confusing in the beginning, but I ended up liking the romance and the cast of characters that we have met in this book. There is a sweet father-figure for Ianthe, and you are going to see a heavy focus on family and how it can affect the children (both positively and negatively). Because I am a HUGE fan of the London Steampunk series that is also written by McMaster, I have been ecstatic to read this. However, I also cannot help comparing it to the other series. While the worldbuilding is great in this with the focus on sorcery, I find the London Steampunk series much more charming and entertaining (with the romance, government, politics, kickass characters, etc.). This might be a personal bias though. I still appreciate this new world, and I definitely intend to read the sequels, and see what else might develop. The next book will be in the same world, but the main couple will change. So, 3 stars because I like it, not love it, but I see some potential in later developments for the world and the future main characters.
Things that you might want to know
Happy ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
What age range will be appropriate to read this?
Anything that irked you?
Did any good character die?
Tear-jerker?
Thoughts on the cover?
Any other questions? Feel free to ask. :)
January 26, 2020
"When the red comet rules the skies, the Prime shall fall.
A new Prime shall Ascend to the head of the Order. Three sons. Three relics. Three sacrifices. Only then can the Prime be torn down.
Three sons, three brothers. When you first lay eyes upon them all, the end will begin.You shall be their deaths. You shall turn their graves."
Drake sang Prime, adalah pria yang paling berkuasa di London. Tapi kejatuhan kekuasaannya sudah di ramalkan jauh sebelum kelahiran putra-putranya. Saat satu dari tiga relik sihir terpenting hilang, dia tahu bahwa ramalan itu akan mulai terwujud. Dan dia tidak bisa mundur lagi dari masa depannya.
Devilish Lord Lucien Rathbourne, namanya sudah menunjukan dirinya dimata tiap orang. Penjahat berbahaya, tak bisa dipercaya dan penuh dendam pada tiap orang yang sudah menjebloskannya ke penjara untuk para psikopat dengan pengamanan maksimum dan penyiksaan tanpa akhir. Ketika seorang lady cantik, penerus penguasa London yang sangat dia benci mendatanginya dengan penawaran yang sulit ditolak dan kesempatan untuk membalaskan dendamnya, dia tak akan berkata tidak.
Miss Ianthe Martin, terjebak dalam aib masa lalunya selama bertahun-tahun. Ketika gurunya dan pria yang paling berarti membutuhkan bantuannya, dia tidak bisa menolak walaupun itu artinya harus menghadapi iblis masa lalunya.
Dengan setting universe yang berbeda dari London tahun 1894, Bec membuatku jatuh cinta pada serial paranormalnya yang baru. Gaya berceritanya kental dihiasi dengan nuansa Victorian Sorcery yang gelap, intens dan memikat. Tarik ulur dan banter Lucien dan Ianthe membangun tensi panas dari awal sampai akhir.
Dibandingkan seri London Steampunk, seri pnr ini dari awal lebih terasa erotis dan steamy. Jangan lupakan bom kejutan bertubi-tubi yang dijatuhkan tanpa ampun sejak awal-awal chapter. Hebatnya, semua twist itu tidak akan mengurangi sisi seru cerita ini. Unsur romance, aksi laga, sisi suspens dan fantasy berpadu sempurna yang akan membuatmu berdebar tanpa henti. Detail angst yang intens dan plot yang detail mungkin agak menyiksa untuk pembaca yang tak terbiasa dengan nover HR tapi setiap kalimatnya sepadan dengan kepuasan yang akan kau dapatkan saat selesai membacanya.
"I have nothing, Ianthe. I've never belonged to anybody. Except for you. I kept telling myself that this wasn't happening. But there's a limit to how much I can lie to myself. You scare me. Because I want you more than I've ever wanted anything in my life. I need to know, whether I am alone in this situation. Do you care for me? Do you want me too?"
Aku juga menyukai penggalian mendalam dari para karakter pendamping. Bahkan beberapa dari mereka (termasuk si villain Sebastian) berhasil membuatku super penasaran dan menunggu kisah mereka akan di tuliskan di lanjutan buku ini. Seri yang berpotensi dan pantas dikoleksi.
"I am too used to dealing with those do not own a heart, and there you are, wearing yours on your sleeve. I cannot touch you Cleo, for a thousand reason. The irony of this situation is that in trying to protect you from them, I have brought you into the realm of a far more dangerous. My self." (Sebastian to Cleo, in their wedding night)
My Rating :
Star : 4/5
Bikini : 3/5
A new Prime shall Ascend to the head of the Order. Three sons. Three relics. Three sacrifices. Only then can the Prime be torn down.
Three sons, three brothers. When you first lay eyes upon them all, the end will begin.You shall be their deaths. You shall turn their graves."
Drake sang Prime, adalah pria yang paling berkuasa di London. Tapi kejatuhan kekuasaannya sudah di ramalkan jauh sebelum kelahiran putra-putranya. Saat satu dari tiga relik sihir terpenting hilang, dia tahu bahwa ramalan itu akan mulai terwujud. Dan dia tidak bisa mundur lagi dari masa depannya.
Devilish Lord Lucien Rathbourne, namanya sudah menunjukan dirinya dimata tiap orang. Penjahat berbahaya, tak bisa dipercaya dan penuh dendam pada tiap orang yang sudah menjebloskannya ke penjara untuk para psikopat dengan pengamanan maksimum dan penyiksaan tanpa akhir. Ketika seorang lady cantik, penerus penguasa London yang sangat dia benci mendatanginya dengan penawaran yang sulit ditolak dan kesempatan untuk membalaskan dendamnya, dia tak akan berkata tidak.
Miss Ianthe Martin, terjebak dalam aib masa lalunya selama bertahun-tahun. Ketika gurunya dan pria yang paling berarti membutuhkan bantuannya, dia tidak bisa menolak walaupun itu artinya harus menghadapi iblis masa lalunya.
Dengan setting universe yang berbeda dari London tahun 1894, Bec membuatku jatuh cinta pada serial paranormalnya yang baru. Gaya berceritanya kental dihiasi dengan nuansa Victorian Sorcery yang gelap, intens dan memikat. Tarik ulur dan banter Lucien dan Ianthe membangun tensi panas dari awal sampai akhir.
Dibandingkan seri London Steampunk, seri pnr ini dari awal lebih terasa erotis dan steamy. Jangan lupakan bom kejutan bertubi-tubi yang dijatuhkan tanpa ampun sejak awal-awal chapter. Hebatnya, semua twist itu tidak akan mengurangi sisi seru cerita ini. Unsur romance, aksi laga, sisi suspens dan fantasy berpadu sempurna yang akan membuatmu berdebar tanpa henti. Detail angst yang intens dan plot yang detail mungkin agak menyiksa untuk pembaca yang tak terbiasa dengan nover HR tapi setiap kalimatnya sepadan dengan kepuasan yang akan kau dapatkan saat selesai membacanya.
"I have nothing, Ianthe. I've never belonged to anybody. Except for you. I kept telling myself that this wasn't happening. But there's a limit to how much I can lie to myself. You scare me. Because I want you more than I've ever wanted anything in my life. I need to know, whether I am alone in this situation. Do you care for me? Do you want me too?"
Aku juga menyukai penggalian mendalam dari para karakter pendamping. Bahkan beberapa dari mereka (termasuk si villain Sebastian) berhasil membuatku super penasaran dan menunggu kisah mereka akan di tuliskan di lanjutan buku ini. Seri yang berpotensi dan pantas dikoleksi.
"I am too used to dealing with those do not own a heart, and there you are, wearing yours on your sleeve. I cannot touch you Cleo, for a thousand reason. The irony of this situation is that in trying to protect you from them, I have brought you into the realm of a far more dangerous. My self." (Sebastian to Cleo, in their wedding night)
My Rating :
Star : 4/5
Bikini : 3/5
December 2, 2016
Нельзя такие книжки после "Неваляшки" читать, потому что вместо охов-вздохов гогот получается.
Типичный роман "для женской дроч... эм... релаксации".
Что лично меня напрягло:
- обилие сцен секса, к месту и не к месту;
- до неприличия прозрачная интрига - что с ребёнком главной героини, что с отпрысками её учителя; в сочетании с предыдущим пунктом выглядит так, будто сначала написали "главное" - у кого с кем когда какой будет секас, а уже потом решили заморочиться связками, шоб какой-никакой сюжет получился. Вот никакой и получился.
- кусок мира, практически слямзенный из "Гарри Поттера"; особо в нём доставило стекло над головой)))
- несовместимость описанного мира с миром людей обычных, наличие которых при этом не отрицается, даже прозвище для них не забыли (мне одной почудился в прозвище кукиш в сторону Монинг?)
- сцены магических битв, особенно последней, где при наличиии эпичного махача шарами энергии, кинжалами и прочими орудиями единственным способом пришибить колдуна/колдунью оказывается обрушение дома.
- нежелание автора поставить точку там, где следовало, потому что конец - это на самом деле первая глава следующей книги. Нет уж, спасибо, если я захочу прочесть вторую, я её прочту и без грубых крючков. При том количестве завязок, которое сделано, можно было и без такой топорной заманухи обойтись.
Последняя претензия стоила книге звёздочки - до этого я признавала, что книжка на любителя, просто не для меня. Но я честно надеялась на сколько-нибудь завершённый сюжет, не только на узы-брак-любофф до гроба, которая с первой главы светила в конце туннеля настолько ярко, что сомнений не было.
Короче, МакМастер точно не мой автор, и дело вовсе не в её мирах. В стимпанке я грешила на наличие "голубокровных", но здесь нет ничего, что отвращало бы меня само по себе, к оккультизму я отношусь совершенно спокойно. А вот к тому, что кажется мне халтурой автора с неплохим языком, явно способной на большее, я отношусь плохо.
Но это моё личное субъективное мнение. Многим нравится.
Типичный роман "для женской дроч... эм... релаксации".
Что лично меня напрягло:
- обилие сцен секса, к месту и не к месту;
- до неприличия прозрачная интрига - что с ребёнком главной героини, что с отпрысками её учителя; в сочетании с предыдущим пунктом выглядит так, будто сначала написали "главное" - у кого с кем когда какой будет секас, а уже потом решили заморочиться связками, шоб какой-никакой сюжет получился. Вот никакой и получился.
- кусок мира, практически слямзенный из "Гарри Поттера"; особо в нём доставило стекло над головой)))
- несовместимость описанного мира с миром людей обычных, наличие которых при этом не отрицается, даже прозвище для них не забыли (мне одной почудился в прозвище кукиш в сторону Монинг?)
- сцены магических битв, особенно последней, где при наличиии эпичного махача шарами энергии, кинжалами и прочими орудиями единственным способом пришибить колдуна/колдунью оказывается обрушение дома.
- нежелание автора поставить точку там, где следовало, потому что конец - это на самом деле первая глава следующей книги. Нет уж, спасибо, если я захочу прочесть вторую, я её прочту и без грубых крючков. При том количестве завязок, которое сделано, можно было и без такой топорной заманухи обойтись.
Последняя претензия стоила книге звёздочки - до этого я признавала, что книжка на любителя, просто не для меня. Но я честно надеялась на сколько-нибудь завершённый сюжет, не только на узы-брак-любофф до гроба, которая с первой главы светила в конце туннеля настолько ярко, что сомнений не было.
Короче, МакМастер точно не мой автор, и дело вовсе не в её мирах. В стимпанке я грешила на наличие "голубокровных", но здесь нет ничего, что отвращало бы меня само по себе, к оккультизму я отношусь совершенно спокойно. А вот к тому, что кажется мне халтурой автора с неплохим языком, явно способной на большее, я отношусь плохо.
Но это моё личное субъективное мнение. Многим нравится.
June 2, 2017
As always McMaster created a vivid world with engrossing characters and an intersting plot.
I just couldn't like anyone that much so I didn't enjoy spending time with them nor did I root for the romance.
It may be that I was just not in the right mood for this kind of second chance secret everything angst.
Didn't work for me on the love story level.
I just couldn't like anyone that much so I didn't enjoy spending time with them nor did I root for the romance.
It may be that I was just not in the right mood for this kind of second chance secret everything angst.
Didn't work for me on the love story level.
July 19, 2016
3.5 stars
Whoa, there is A LOT of world building in this book and I had to put it down several times, but this is Bec McMaster and I was rewarded.
Whoa, there is A LOT of world building in this book and I had to put it down several times, but this is Bec McMaster and I was rewarded.
July 5, 2018
Buddy read with Layla
January 28, 2018
3.5 stars
September 9, 2016
Ah, I wanted to love this - it's Bec McMaster's newest series after all, but this was not to par for my taste: the writing, the characters, the world building and mythology. It felt like everything was just thrown together, but hardly explained. The initial relation of the main couple - just seemed in bad taste; and I read a better incarnation of the overall story in Grace Draven's excellent Master of Crows.
I forced myself to finish it, although, of course, the epilogue cliffhanger got me curious to know what happens next. So I don't know if I'll give this series another go, time will tell...
I forced myself to finish it, although, of course, the epilogue cliffhanger got me curious to know what happens next. So I don't know if I'll give this series another go, time will tell...
November 7, 2016
McMaster is a very apt writer. I'm not a fan of steampunk, nor werewolves and yet I have enjoyed her previous series immensely. She's goooood. And boy does that "goooood" turn into fucking fantastic when she decides to delve into a realm I'm more fond of; magic and sorcery.
Solid worldbuildning as usual and the romance stuff, albeit above average, wasn't what made me love this book. It was the rest of the characters. I need to know what happens to them. Now. So, this'll be my short and sweet review as Hexbound is literally lying right next to me, begging to be read and I swear to gods, if Sebastian and Cleo don't get their own book I will throw a hissy fit.
Solid worldbuildning as usual and the romance stuff, albeit above average, wasn't what made me love this book. It was the rest of the characters. I need to know what happens to them. Now. So, this'll be my short and sweet review as Hexbound is literally lying right next to me, begging to be read and I swear to gods, if Sebastian and Cleo don't get their own book I will throw a hissy fit.
June 24, 2016
А я-то думала, что после стимпанковской серии меня чем-то трудно удивить. Забираю свои слова обратно и снимаю шляпу. Обалденная атмосферная книга, читается на одном дыхании. Я догадывалась, чем дело кончится, все-таки еще две части впереди, но все равно сделано было красиво. Объемные интересные персонажи, тайны, колдунство... В общем, Макмастер еще раз утвердилась как один из моих любимых авторов.
July 8, 2016
A new series by accomplished paranormal writer Bec McMaster this time set in a parallel Victorian universe where sorcerers live alongside the human population. It took me a little while to get into the mythology of this one but the premise of three brothers foretold to bring on the Great Doom of London is sound and as usual the author beautifully sets the scene for an intriguing series.
January 8, 2019
I absolutely loved this author’s other series, Legends of the Storm, so I’m sad this one didn’t quite work for me. The premise is exciting and intriguing but for whatever reason, i struggled to connect with the characters, especially in comparison to those in her other series. I’m still a big fan of this author and her work, you can’t like them all can you? :)
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