Jessica Dall

Let me start by saying, I think the potential for a well-rounded, unique story is there with Forever Bound, but, for me, it just wasn't as fleshed out as it could be.

I was, sadly, not fond of the MMC, Liam. Some of his actions came across as being very manipulative. The blatant jealousy I got from him was not at all appealing...I feel it could've been written differently and maybe Liam wouldn't have come across so weirdly immature. Don't get me wrong, I love a good broody, grumpy MMC, but Liam just was not it. His mood changes gave me whiplash.

With that said, I did love the FMC, Bridget and the story was quickly paced and intriguing.
The visions added a unique historical element that kept me turning each page.
The Irish setting was beautiful, with descriptive writing that really helped me dive into the story's location.

Thank you to Entangled Publishing for the e-ARC to read and honestly review.… (mehr)

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from Red Adept Publishing and Library Thing ER in exchange for an unbiased review.

This fictional story about the Lisbon earthquake on All Saints Day in 1755 seemed well researched with a strong beginning. Cecilia de Santa Rita e Durante is an impulsive and passionate protagonist who struggles to find equilibrium after she is separated from her family during the aftermath of the earthquake. She manages to find her way to her uncle Tio Aloisio house with the help of his business partner John Bates.

Cecilia and Mr Bates form an unexpected and often contemptuous bond as the struggle to discover what has become of the people in Lisbon. She is desperate to find her sister Bibiana and brother Father Francisco Durante. During this time of the European Age of Enlightenment and the Portuguese Inquisition, Cecilia is pressured to make difficult decisions which question her religious beliefs.

Her discussions with John Bates as an English Protestant provides her with new insight into controversial subjects she never once questioned. She also learns to read and in a few languages which also awakes her curiosity to the world beyond Lisbon and the Church. Her uncle Tio seems to have a collection of banned books which only complicates and challenges her beliefs.

The book felt much longer than it actually was to read. The middle part seemed to drag on with repetitive and and drab information. Once it neared the end then the plots began to progress with more interesting plots. The story of Cecilia and John is a focal point amidst the background of the disastrous tragedy. It was a disappointment for their connection to be severed for many chapters before he returns to complete the story.

There are some devious and evil characters in history who play their part in deception and treacherous acts. While they added some direction I felt it lacked the structure to support the return of Mr Bates which seemed inevitable given the synopsis of the book from publisher.

I enjoyed it but not as much as I would have liked. I would recommend this to fans of historical fiction as it did provide an interesting view of a little discussed piece of history.… (mehr)

The story accurately portrayed the sickness of greed and lust that was so rampant in kingdoms of that era. The characters, though hard to like at first, were tolerable toward the end and at several points, even enjoyable. I found myself thinking about the story while I was away from it, and to me, that is the mark of a good story.

I would advise that this is an adult book and while there is no explicit content, you may wish to consider it the equivalent of a PG-13 movie. There are fade-to-black moments.

To see a more in depth review, click here!… (mehr)