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Shanora Williams
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Vicious Bonds: A Dark Fantasy Romance (The Tether Trilogy Book 1) Kindle Edition

by Shanora Williams (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.4 out of 5 stars 1,348 ratings

NOW A COMPLETE SERIES!


THE WOMAN

When I’m sucked into a portal that takes me to another universe, it’s just my luck that not only am I greeted by an angry wolf, but there’s a man pointing a gun at me.

This man is the ruthless monarch of one of the most vicious kingdoms in this unknown world. And the craziest part about our encounter? I can hear his thoughts and he can hear mine.

Because of our telepathic abilities (and because he’s a broody, standoffish jerk), he wants me as far away from him as possible, so he agrees to help me find a way back to Earth.

Only what turns into a simple journey becomes one full of danger, magic, and corruption, leaving me no choice but to rely on him much more than I care to admit…

THE MONARCH

If I could rid myself of this woman from Earth, I would. But our bond, I realize, is rare and powerful and there are evil forces ready to kill us and harness that power the moment we mate.

For two people who dislike each other, not mating should be a simple endeavor…

But there is something about her–something that lures me in and demands I stay close. This part of me wants to make her mine, and what irritates me most is that I can’t resist the insatiable hunger reserved only for her.

Suddenly, not falling for her doesn’t sound so simple and I sense she feels the same way.

With death knocking at our door, we’re forced to make an impossible decision…

Choose to part ways with broken hearts while sparing our lives. Or seal our bond by staying together…and risk losing everything.

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  1. Book 1 of 3
    The Tether Trilogy
  2. Print length
    468 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Publication date
    February 9, 2023
  5. File size
    4.3 MB
  6. Page Flip
    Enabled
  7. Word Wise
    Enabled
  8. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
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From the Publisher

fated mates who must obey one impossible rule...
do not fall in love.
Vicious Bonds tropes graphic.

When they share a telepathic bond and he says...

What are you wearing?

“What?”

I didn’t stutter.

I frown, lowering my eyes to my tank top. Beneath the quilt, I’m only in my panties.

Ah. So, you’re half nåked then? I hope you’re alone.

Shut up. I fight a smile.

tropes:

  • dark romantasy
  • grumpy/sunshine
  • morally gray hero
  • dislike to lovers
  • telepathic bond
  • "touch her and die" vibes
  • portals/multiverse
  • interracial romance + diversity

Editorial Reviews

Review

Larry Reads - "This book had the perfect mixture of fantasy, plot, and romance! I adored the characters and the entire concept. The world building didn't even feel boring to me because the entire thing is so interesting."


MJLovesToRead - "Vicious Bonds is one fabulous adventure. Shanora Williams pulls out all the stops for what could be her best work to date with this intense, dark, romantic fantasy."


PP's Bookshelf - "Vicious Bonds by Shanora Williams was unexpected, addictive and all consuming. This dark romantic fantasy has captured my heart and soul instantly."


Shaima, Goodreads Reviewer - "5+ stars! I am blown away with this book. The story is well paced and written beautifully. The universe Shanora created is magnificent and unique."


Shay, Goodreads Reviewer - "One thing Williams done really well with this fantasy book is the world building. The way she depicts Vakeeli is so well written that you can imagine seeing this new world through Willow's eyes."


Rhonda, Goodreads Review - "Dark delicious and just darn right fascinating. Their story was so addicting."

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BNP6QF9L
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Platinum Queen Press LLC (February 9, 2023)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ February 9, 2023
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 4.3 MB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 468 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.4 out of 5 stars 1,348 ratings

About the author

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Shanora Williams

Shanora Williams

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Shanora Williams is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty romance and diverse suspense novels.

She lives near Charlotte, North Carolina with her husband and three boys and is a sister to eleven.

When she isn’t writing, she’s spending time with her family, binge reading, or running marathons on TV streaming services.

Customer reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
1,348 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find this dark fantasy romance book engaging, with unexpected twists and turns that keep them captivated from start to finish. The writing style receives praise, with one customer noting how it immerses readers deeply into the narrative. They appreciate the character development, with one review highlighting the depth of emotional expression, and the relationship between Caz and Willow is well-developed. The book is easy to follow, and customers particularly enjoy the spicy scenes.

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61 customers mention "Readability"61 positive0 negative

Customers find the book enjoyable to read, with one describing it as a smut reader's dream, and many particularly appreciating the characters Caz and Willow.

"...The characters do not make strange jumps. It is very believable. Both sides (the good and the bad) have lost people / gods / regals...." Read more

"...I ate this book up today. It was really good. The spicy scenes are wayyyy too freaking good. But there’s some serious plot development & I loved it...." Read more

"...This book and series does not disappoint! I LOVED “The Wife Before” thriller and was interested in reading more of a her work...." Read more

"...I love this book from the plot, the world of Vakeeli, down to the representation and diversity of the characters...." Read more

59 customers mention "Storyline"51 positive8 negative

Customers enjoy the storyline of the book, finding it interesting and suspenseful with unexpected twists and turns.

"...But I was very happy with the ending...." Read more

"...But there’s some serious plot development & I loved it...." Read more

"...This plot is so intricately detailed and beautifully laid out throughout the book...." Read more

"...The premise of the story is great, but it felt like a gem in need of a few more tumbles for polishing...." Read more

45 customers mention "Pacing"43 positive2 negative

Customers praise the book's pacing, noting it had them captivated from start to finish and kept them wanting more. They appreciate the world-building and fantasy elements, with one customer highlighting the enjoyable twists and turns of the story.

"...So I could read straight through. The story is original. The characters are diverse and very well described and built up...." Read more

"...This book is a perfect concoction of fantasy and smut that’s balanced. It never lingers too long on a certain aspect...." Read more

"...Caz and Willow's slow burn is so worth it, because you get to experience the development of their feelings as they lean into their tether..." Read more

"I really liked the premise of the book and went in mostly blind besides the little blurb in KU...." Read more

21 customers mention "Writing style"21 positive0 negative

Customers love the author's writing style, with one customer noting how it immerses readers deeply into the story, while another mentions the beautiful layout throughout the book.

"...The story is original. The characters are diverse and very well described and built up. The mutual relationships are simply heartwarming...." Read more

"...This plot is so intricately detailed and beautifully laid out throughout the book...." Read more

"...Shanora has such a way with words, the way she describes Vakeeli along with the different territories, the bond of the Cold Tether, the conflicting..." Read more

"I'm obsessed with this! It was written so well and the idea of tethers as soul mates is such a brilliant concept...." Read more

19 customers mention "Character development"19 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the character development in the book, with one customer highlighting the depth of emotions and another noting the complex hero.

"...The characters do not make strange jumps. It is very believable. Both sides (the good and the bad) have lost people / gods / regals...." Read more

"...plot, the world of Vakeeli, down to the representation and diversity of the characters...." Read more

"...A mix Strong character development? Yes Loveable characters? Yes Diverse cast of characters? Yes..." Read more

"...I really connected with these characters and the story had me wanting to read more and more. I did not see that ending coming and I really like that...." Read more

6 customers mention "Relationship"6 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the relationships in the book, particularly the connection between Caz and Willow, with one customer noting the tethered bond with telepathic communication.

"...The mutual relationships are simply heartwarming. And the fantasy world with map and all really appeals to the imagination...." Read more

"...It took its time setting up the world, the relationships, the mystery, it was all there...." Read more

"...The world building, the storyline, Caz and Willow’s relationship were all great!..." Read more

"I am a huge fan of this genre. Throw in a tethered bond with telepathic communication and I’m a goner...." Read more

4 customers mention "Ease of follow"4 positive0 negative

Customers find the book easy to follow, with one mentioning that it takes time to set up the world.

"...The whole world building is detailed and easy to keep up with. The plot itself is entertaining as expected...." Read more

"...so there is quite a bit of world building going on, but it was easy enough to follow as someone who does not read fantasy often...." Read more

"...Ms. Williams did an amazing job at world building. It was easy to follow and has the perfect blend of fantasy and romance...." Read more

"...I enjoyed this book a lot! It took its time setting up the world, the relationships, the mystery, it was all there...." Read more

4 customers mention "Spice level"4 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the spicy scenes in the book, with one noting that the spice level is just right, while another appreciates the juicy cliffhanger ending.

"...I ate this book up today. It was really good. The spicy scenes are wayyyy too freaking good. But there’s some serious plot development & I loved it...." Read more

"...Ending on a juicy cliff hanger that will have you stuck, so I suggest you have the second book "Wicked Ties" ready on deck because it picks up right..." Read more

"...I LOVED the slow burn and that there were only a couple of spicy scenes and only towards the end. And it includes magical lands and kingdoms...." Read more

"This book I can’t even put in words I loved it the spice was just enough the morally grey mmc was great." Read more

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
5 out of 5 stars
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you TikTok for introducing me to this author and her books. From the quote on page 3 'To anyone feeling like they don't belong. You matter. Always.' 🥺 to the last page of the story, this book had me in a chokehold😧. So addicting and I cannot wait for Book 2 Wicked Tues to get my fix.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Grace
    5.0 out of 5 stars Please write another fantasy...
    Reviewed in the United States on October 28, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Simply amazing! When I started book 1, books 1 to 3 were already finished. So I could read straight through. The story is original. The characters are diverse and very well described and built up. The mutual relationships are simply heartwarming. And the fantasy world with map and all really appeals to the imagination. Shanora knows very well how to take you along in the emotions of the characters in a realistic way. The characters do not make strange jumps. It is very believable. Both sides (the good and the bad) have lost people / gods / regals. But I was very happy with the ending. It felt very good to let my tears flow freely, because Caz and Willow (and everyone who was on their side) had a hard time at the end when they had to fight against evil.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Tatisbookshelf
    4.0 out of 5 stars UM wow 😩
    Reviewed in the United States on March 23, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I started this a while ago & hadn’t finished. Ofc I kept seeing it being recommended which is why I picked it up in the first place. If you feel like stopping this book, DONT!! I REPEAT, FINISH THIS BOOK. LEARN from my mistakes.
    Things that drew me to this book: the cover (I really like it), it’s by a Black author 🥰 & lastly, who doesn’t want to read about a woman hearing a man’s voice in her head & him turning out to be her mate.

    I ate this book up today. It was really good. The spicy scenes are wayyyy too freaking good. But there’s some serious plot development & I loved it. The way the book is upset up, there’s a couple little side pieces to the story that have me questioning everything. I was not expecting the ending until the very last page. Off to read the 2nd book!
    Helpful
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  • Mimi
    5.0 out of 5 stars A fantasy & smut readers dream book!
    Reviewed in the United States on January 3, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    This is my second Shanora Williams read and my first attempt at one of her series. This book and series does not disappoint! I LOVED “The Wife Before” thriller and was interested in reading more of a her work. After researching her online content and promo for the Tethered series I gave it a try.

    I’ve never watched Peaky Blinders but know of the show and definitely see it’s inspiration in the series. Caz Harlow is Shanora’s Thomas Shelby who’s tethered to a beautiful black woman, Willow.

    This plot is so intricately detailed and beautifully laid out throughout the book. Shanora really knows how to hook her reader, chapter after chapter, right up to the end! I had many sleepless nights because the book is a page turner and I couldn’t put it down! Each chapter hooks to the next, leaving a question or surprise that you must continue to the next chapter for the reveal.

    AND THE PLOT TWIST! OMG!!! I truly did not see it coming and couldn’t believe my eyes even a couple chapters in after the reveal. Also the love scenes are HOT 🥵 and vivid. I didn’t even realize I was into smut until reading this. This book is a perfect concoction of fantasy and smut that’s balanced. It never lingers too long on a certain aspect.

    Without any spoilers, this book is soooo good. I could totally see the Tethered Series made into movies (they better get the characters right! 😒) It definitely could compete with the fantasy greats in the box office, like the Hunger Games and Harry Potter. If you’re seeking confirmation to buy this book, here it is. BUY IT. It’s well worth the read. I was sprinting to Amazon to order Wicked Ties right after, and you will be too!
    2 people found this helpful
    Helpful
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  • Adia
    3.0 out of 5 stars Good fanfic… bad OC
    Reviewed in the United States on January 13, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I can’t say this book was boring, but that’s not necessarily a good thing. It starts off slow, but once Willow makes it into the fantasy world it picks up fast. A lot of violence occurs back to back, but nothing plot development wise really happens. In fact, so little happens I begin to fall out of love with Caz. The premise of the story is great, but it felt like a gem in need of a few more tumbles for polishing.
    For instance *semi spoilers following*
    Greek mythology is mentioned within not-earth
    There’s still racism, as a black woman I would love a romantasy that circles a black FMC without colorism or racism being around
    The couple have telepathic powers but at times that would require stealth… they talk aloud
    There was so little chemistry when they do have sex that I get the ick from the impersonal positioning
    Lastly, there’s just a lot of unnecessary info dumping

    Things I did like
    Grumpy MMC and sunshine FMC
    1920s steam punk sort of
    And the overall premise is cool

    If this was a pinky blinders meets some fantasy fanfic I’d give it a higher rating.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
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  • Alyssa
    5.0 out of 5 stars Couldn't Pry This Book From My Fingertips
    Reviewed in the United States on September 26, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    I'll recommend this book to any and everyone because thats how much I loved it. So much that I also bought the audiobook version just to re-live the story again. I love this book from the plot, the world of Vakeeli, down to the representation and diversity of the characters. It's not common to come across a romance-fantasy book that has a Black woman as the main character and I'm so glad that I came across this series on TikTok. Caz and Willow's slow burn is so worth it, because you get to experience the development of their feelings as they lean into their tether (and the spice does not disappoint). Shanora has such a way with words, the way she describes Vakeeli along with the different territories, the bond of the Cold Tether, the conflicting feelings Caz and Willow have for each other makes the book flow as you immerse yourself in their story and worlds. Ending on a juicy cliff hanger that will have you stuck, so I suggest you have the second book "Wicked Ties" ready on deck because it picks up right where you left off. I'm so glad this series exist!
    Helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

  • shelfsideshan
    5.0 out of 5 stars FIVE STARS
    Reviewed in Canada on March 12, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    The characters, the angst, the mystery… ugh I could not put this one down until the end.

    I found the story spent a great deal building on the slow burn between the two leads, which made them getting together more exciting.

    I can’t say enough about how much I loved this. I can’t wait to devour book 2.
    Report
  • Nicole N
    5.0 out of 5 stars 5⭐️
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 18, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Five stars right across the board!!! I don’t normally like all the drama but the way I was hooked. I loved this book sooo much I don’t even know what to say. There wasn’t a moment that wasn’t packed with twists and turns throughout.

    Caz and Willow were really against their bond but eventually grew into it especially their family who were sceptical and took to Willow as part of the family.

    I did nothing but read this book for one day straight and a half and it was a day well spent. Loved everything about this book I didn’t breathe before I started book 2.
    Report
  • Bruna Bento
    4.0 out of 5 stars it was cute
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 22, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    i really enjoyed the start of the book but after williw cameback u kinda loste me😭 boring.

    its fine tho and the cliffhanger 🫦

    I KNEW THAT GUY WAS WEIRD!!!! SOMETHING WAS OFFFF!!!
    Report
  • Kindle Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing
    Reviewed in Canada on February 13, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    This is a really good book, it draws you in and doesn't let go. I just wished I knew it ended with a cliff hanger. I definitely would have waited to read it until the next one was available. Now I have to wait until November. 😔
    Report
  • Marian Chawner
    5.0 out of 5 stars Soulmates
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 15, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Good grief what a book. Fantasy it may be , but also a very passionate deep seated love affair between Caz a very dark moody monarch of Blackwater and Willow a very lonely lady from our world! The two are cold tethered, and are essential to each other, but Caz doesn’t want to be drawn to anyone for fear of!! No more spoilers. The book is full of wonderfully described characters, both mystic, majestic and animal in nature. There is most definitely suspense, intrigue and drama, and some very sizzling scenes between the two main characters. At first denial and stubbornness between the two prevent any binding, but love wins. I defy anyone to put this book down once started, and even if you’re not into fantasy, you will be after this book. The downside a wait till November to catch up on the cliffhanger, and double crossings. The upside it can be read several times again before then. 5 stars is not enough by far, but it’s all I can give. Phenomenal.
    Report

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