Member Reviews
Based on the synopsis of this book, I was really excited to dive in and read! However, once I started, I often had to re-read sections and would get confused about the timeline or the plot line, and by the end of the book was left with more questions. Overall, I would not recommend this book
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for an advance e-copy of Fearlessly Bound, in exchange of an honest review.
Mason Campbell, a figure of authority and influence in England, possesses an endless reserve of both resources and charisma. Despite his reputation for unyielding ruthlessness, he commands the envy of men and the desires of women with equal fervor. Enter Lauren Hart, a newly appointed assistant thrust into the tumultuous orbit of Mason Campbell. Tasked with navigating his explosive temper, disdain, and overbearing ego, Lauren finds herself treading on thin ice in her professional relationship with the formidable tycoon. While she yearns for an escape from the clutches of her tyrannical employer, fate has other plans in store for her. Unbeknownst to Lauren, Mason's icy exterior conceals a fiery passion directed solely towards her. As their professional dynamic teeters on the edge of chaos, Mason is poised to unveil an irresistible proposition that will alter the course of their intertwined destinies forever. Within the pages of this riveting tale lies a narrative brimming with intrigue, suspense, and unbridled desire. While the plot unfolds at a breakneck pace, weaving a tapestry of unforeseen twists and mounting tensions, certain segments may leave readers grappling with moments of confusion and a sense of hurried pacing. Nonetheless, the electrifying allure of the story's premise ensures an engaging read that captures the essence of a gripping tale of power, passion, and the perilous dance between ambition and allure. This was a solid 4.0 Star rating read for me!
The synopsis really got me excited to dive into this book about a complicated dynamic of boss to lover relationship.
The positives of this book are how well the author, Zainab Sambo, is able to create tension between love interests. I really fell for the main characters from the start. There are so many unexpected twists and turns in this book that had me on the edge of my seat all the way through. I’m happy I stuck with this book until the end and am curious about what comes next for the characters in the second book, Fearless King (The Mason Series).
Now that I’ve addressed the positives I have to move on to the negatives. From beginning to end the book was very inconsistent. There were some issues with the plot that as a reader I chose to overlook so as to better enjoy the overall story. These inconsistencies and plot holes may bother others who choose to read this book. Some of the unexpected twists and turns were also very extreme, and felt unnecessary at times.
I would also like to make clear that there should be multiple trigger warnings for this book including but not limited to: Kidnapping, Death, and Emotional Abuse.
I would recommend this book for someone who is looking for a suspenseful romance who is willing to overlook some plot issues.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Zainab Sambo (Author) for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and author Zainab Sambo for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
"There is nothing more dangerous than a man with money and sex appeal. Mason Campbell had an infinite supply of both. As one of the most powerful men in England, despite being utterly ruthless, he is envied by men and wanted by women alike.
Lauren Hart has just landed a job as his assistant and is constantly on the receiving end of his tantrums, hatred, and arrogance. Life would be better if she was not working for the tyrant—better for her, at least. Unfortunately, Mason does not have eyes for anyone but Lauren, and is about to make her an offer she cannot refuse."
This is book is fast-paced, with plenty of twists and tensions. But some parts are confusing and/or feels rushed. I did enjoy reading this.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Fearlessly Bound is a gripping and intense read that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The characters are well-developed and the plot is fast-paced, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. Zainab Sambo does an excellent job of building tension and creating a sense of unease throughout the story.
However, the book does have some flaws. The pacing can feel uneven, with some parts dragging while others feel rushed. Additionally, some dialogue and interactions between characters can come across as a bit stilted and unrealistic.
Overall, Fearlessly Bound is a thrilling read that will satisfy fans of suspense and thrillers. While it may have some imperfections, the strengths of the story and the compelling characters make it a worthwhile read.
Fearlessly Bound had all the makings to be a stellar novel: alphahole (check), damsel in distress (check), mysterious circumstances (check), chemistry (check) but it fell short in some pretty fundamental ways.
Firstly, the writing was very inconsistent, the structure, the plotline, it all felt like it was missing something. The holes started from the beginning when they first encountered each other after she mysteriously got a direct elevator to his heavily guarded and exclusive office and only spiraled from there. Certain references gave me the ick- particularly when we realize the nature of how Lauren and Mason first encounter each other- and he says something along the lines of "I felt a spark then" and got a tattoo- if I am not mistaken, she was a child???? The convenient amnesia, the immaturity of Lauren (even her friend walked out on her but then magically forgave her), how Mason seems to be dominant but is a bully and the sudden 180 of his family at the end.
The smut, or rather lack thereof was disappointing. I have no problem if authors want to play it safe with their spicy scenes, but the prelude i.e. the flirting scenes and the sexual chemistry was great, the fact that the act itself was passed over (multiple times) almost to the point that I didn't even realize it happened had me flipping back to see if pages were missing.
Thank you to the author Ms. Sambo, Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Fearlessly Bound is a captivating and brilliantly written novel by Zainab Sambo. It’s a refreshing mix of romance, drama and suspense that keeps you hooked from the very first page. The main characters, Mason and Lauren, are well-crafted and their dynamic relationship will leave you breathless.
Mason Campbell is not your typical hero. He’s ruthless, cold-hearted and takes no prisoners. But when he meets Lauren, a feisty and outspoken woman, he finds himself drawn to her in a way he never thought possible. As their paths cross, they strike a deal that will change both of their lives forever. Lauren needs Mason’s help to save her father’s life, and in return, she agrees to marry him for a year.
The chemistry between Mason and Lauren is off the charts, and their banter is entertaining and often humorous. Although they come from different worlds and have their own issues to deal with, their attraction to each other is undeniable. As they try to navigate their unconventional marriage, they find themselves falling for each other. But as their feelings grow stronger, a shocking truth is revealed that threatens to tear them apart.
The way Sambo develops the characters and their relationship is masterful. Mason’s transformation from a heartless businessman to a caring and protective husband is heartwarming to see. Lauren is a strong and independent woman who stands her ground and challenges Mason in ways he never thought possible. Together, they make a formidable couple, and you can’t help but root for their love to conquer all.
The plot is well-paced, and the twists and turns keep you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you have it all figured out, Sambo throws a curveball that leaves you shocked and wanting more. The writing is flawless, and the dialogue is witty and engaging. The ending is satisfying and sets the stage for the next book in the series.
In conclusion, Fearlessly Bound is a must-read for anyone who loves a steamy romance with a touch of suspense. Zainab Sambo’s writing is fresh, unique, and will keep you glued to the pages until the very end. I highly recommend this book and can’t wait to see what Sambo has in store for us in the next installment of the Mason Series.
I love the idea of this book and I’ve been trying so hard to just force myself through it but I can’t. It’s been super repetitive and the plot just isn’t there. Nothing exciting or interesting is happening and it just doesn’t keep my attention. I feel like this book is missing a lot of aspects and there needs to be more of a lot of things.
Immerse yourself in a world of courage, resilience, and self-discovery with Zainab Sambo's empowering novel, "Fearlessly Bound". This captivating story follows the journey of a young woman as she navigates challenges, confronts her fears, and learns to embrace her inner strength in the face of adversity.
"Fearlessly Bound" is a compelling tale that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. Sambo's narrative weaves a tapestry of hope and empowerment, highlighting the transformative power of self-belief and determination. Through the eyes of the protagonist, readers are taken on a poignant exploration of identity, self-acceptance, and the courage it takes to break free from societal expectations.
The author's evocative writing style draws readers into the protagonist's world, allowing them to experience her triumphs and setbacks with heartfelt empathy. As the story unfolds, themes of resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams converge to create a narrative that is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
"True liberation comes not from the absence of fear, but from the courage to face it head-on and emerge stronger on the other side."
"Fearlessly Bound" earns a commendable 4 out of 5 for its compelling storytelling, authentic characters, and empowering message of self-discovery. While some parts of the plot may feel predictable, the novel's emotional depth and relatable themes make it a worthwhile read for those seeking a story of empowerment and personal growth.
Everything about this story is written really well. It has everything… romance.. mystery.. adventure.. characters to feel close to… loved it!.
I was so excited to read this book because what more do you need than a grumpy billionaire boss? It’s also dual POV which is ideal however there are so many plot holes. For example on her first day as his new assistant the timings throughout the day were all wrong so I had to DNF it. I think it has good potential if it has a significant edit.
After a slightly strange start (where I seriously considered giving up reading), the story picks up and becomes more joined up. It’s dark and twisted in places, but as the story develops there is a surprising depth to Mason and Lauren. I also enjoyed the strength of their friends - it would definitely be interesting to find out more about Athena and her relationship with the dysfunctional family.
It's quite puzzling and disjointed, which makes it challenging to follow the storyline. At first, Lauren appears timid and from a lower social class, but her internal thoughts reveal a complex individual with rather harsh judgments about others. The development of her character seems inconsistent and unpredictable. Eventually, she becomes an assistant to a billionaire named Mason, but the whole situation feels unrealistic. The excessive focus on describing Mason's physical appearance becomes tiresome. Lauren's immediate dislike towards a well-groomed woman seems unjustified. The conversations are cringeworthy, and I struggled to get through a few chapters. I attempted to skim ahead, but my impression remained the same. Despite receiving this book as a gift, I find myself unable to finish it. The quality is lacking, and a significant revision is needed.
The writing in this book is very confusing and choppy. Lauren comes across at the beginning as as meek, mild, low class, passive, etc, but her inner narration reflects a conflicted woman, thinking sometimes nasty thoughts and that everyone hates her. (She has some pretty rude opinions about other people throughout.) Her character development is seriously all over the place. She's has been hired as an assistant to Mason, a billionaire (sigh), after accidentally finding herself in his office - with a gun pointed against her head.
Nothing made sense. Mason gives her his password and tells her to answer his emails on the first morning? Not knowing her, after zero training for the job of a high powered businessman's assistant?
The narration is constantly referring to his mesmerizing silver eyes, his muscles jumping through his Armani suit, bicepts are huge, how frightening he is, broad, tall, powerful, gorgeous, hot body, smells good, is mysterious, has plump red lips, is also a jerk, etc. I got it after the first couple references. Lauren immediately hates the woman who showed her to her desk area? Because she's perfect;y groomed? Also, I assume this is supposed to be a romance - or erotica - I didn't care to find out.
The banter and dialogue was cringe-worthy throughout and my head was swimming after five chapters, so I just couldn't continue reading any longer. I skimmed a bit more and my position on this book didn't change. I usually know within the first few pages if a book will appeal to me and I applaud myself for reading as much as I did.
I've been gifted an eArc from Netgalley and the publisher in return for my honest opinion - and that is - I can't finish. It's pretty bad, especially when I got to the bit when Mason shakes Lauren. Sic - "until I though my breath would never return." Then he tore up her resignation letter some time later.
I have no interest reading any more, sorry. It needs a major overhaul.
I could not finish this for multiple reason. The dialogue was weird and almost forced, the obsessive pushing of the fact that the MMC was a billionaire or was mean was a lot, and the FMC’s character seemed all over the place.
The dialogue at times didn’t make sense. At times the FMC was seeming like a damsel and others a spitfire. This would be good for character development throughout the book, but from one sentence to the next not so much. This made it very hard to read.
The pushing of the fact that the MMC was a billionaire was a bit much as well. I am practically rolled my eyes when it was written that he owned a billion pound painting. With that being said the FMC appears to be middle class, and her being able to spot expensive art like that seems unlikely.
Lastly the FMC was all over the place when it came to how she was being portrayed. She would be this sad girl who was scared of the MMC and others she was ready to stand up against him. It didn’t make sense. On top of that she also seemed like a pick-me. At one point she wanted to fight another female simply because she looked nicer than her. She also called her so called “best friend” a bitch because she didn’t believe something she said.
Overall, it was a hard read for me but I’m sure the plot had potential. The execution just wasn’t as good as I hoped.