A bond accepted. An oath sworn. Three lives intrinsically linked, seeking a better future. But can they maintain what they started?
Shattering the glass tower had far flung consequences, but Cole, Eira and Oran’s problems have just started.
When Eira gets held hostage via her Bloodstream, she has no choice but to protect Oran’s mind at all costs. But the secret she discovers there could destroy everything they’ve worked for.
Cole’s humanity weighs on him as he fails to protect those he cares about. What’s the point of the drop of power in his blood if he can’t use it to help anyone?
Oran needs to take his place as the leader of his clan, but the past is quickly catching up to him.
Together, they must face an enemy even greater than the Dark, but will secrets and jealousy get in the way?
Roxan Burley is an author who delves into the intense world of dystopian fantasy, one where the segregation of magic has a powerful resonance on her characters abilities to change society. She also runs her own business as an interior designer. She lives in rural Devon where she is converting a barn with her husband, two children and their many pets. She spent her childhood lost in the world of magic and the possibilities it could create. She finally put pen to paper, despite the challenge of being dyslexic, with her debut adult novel Bloodstream of Moonlight in her Equal Rise series.
Bond of Eternity is the second instalment from Roxan Burley. We are thrown straight back into action. The urban setting of this book is so vivid, I particularly liked the inclusion of the Shard and Tower Bridge. The mythical and magical creatures simply belong in this world and are absolutely amazing. I especially liked the Thunderbirds being compared to the size of a double decker bus. I also love a fight against the dark and this book certainly delivers on that front, with tons of twists, complexity and treachery throughout. The three main characters remain centre stage and Oran will always be my favourite. I love the exploration of society, power and connection. Thank you to the author for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.
had a great time on the Literallypr tour for the second part of this series. The book throws you right back into the action with a vivid urban setting, including landmarks like the Shard and Tower Bridge. The mythical creatures in this world are amazing, and I especially liked the description of the Thunderbirds being as big as double-decker buses.
The story involves mythical creatures living among humans and the conflicts that arise due to the divide formed after a war. The book is written from the perspectives of three main characters. I enjoyed the relationship between Eira and Cole and appreciated the unconventional bonds between the characters.
The world-building is just right, providing enough information without overshadowing the action-packed plot. There are unexpected moments and a heart-wrenching twist towards the end that left me eager for book three.
Both books were a thoroughly enjoyable read, with the first being more action-packed and the second providing backstory and character development. It's a unique and exciting fantasy series that I would recommend to fans of the genre, particularly those who enjoy a touch of romance. This series is also suitable for young adults with its absence of mature content.
This fantasy series is a standout in its genre, offering a blend of excitement, romance, and engaging storytelling. It is a perfect recommendation for fans of fantasy, especially young adults looking for a captivating read without mature content. Immerse yourself in this enchanting world and get ready for an unforgettable journey . #FantasyFiction #MythicalCreatures #UrbanFantasy #ActionPacked #Romance #YoungAdultNovels #BookSeries #LondonLandmarks #Thunderbirds #CharacterDevelopment 21 h
It was exciting to dive back into this dystopian world, and its action packed plot, as well as learn more about each character and see their growth. I enjoyed the blend of magic and variety of creatures in the dystopian urban setting, and the references to London landmarks. It explores a world divided, a growing rebellion, and plenty of challenges for the main trio to face, and i liked that you get time with each character and insights into their feelings, pasts, secrets and struggles. This has unique bonds, a gripping plot and plenty of surprises, twists and betrayals, excited to see what's in store in book 3.
After being blown away with Roxan’s first book in this series (Bloodstream of Moonlight) and falling in love with the characters and story I was SUPER keen to pick up the second book “Bond of Eternity” and boy did it deliver 🤩
Eira, Cole, Oran and Nelka are literally my fav characters right now, experiencing the bonds that continue to grow between them all in this book was beautiful and I just love how they fight for and protect each other 💜
I was also so impressed with all the other characters/creatures that returned like Tagger and Flint and I especially loved a new character who quickly became a fav of mine - the cheeky shapeshifting fox Valko 🤩
I mentioned in my last review how “Roxan knows how to end a book and leave us wanting more” I’m literally SCREAMING these words after this one because 😱 that ending!!! I sat there and sobbed and my heart is still hurting ❤️🩹 you best believe I’m counting down the days until the 3rd book is here ✨
The series is from the fantasy genre but set in our universe - the UK to be specific - that sees mythical creatures such as elves, trolls, dwarves and gargoyles, yes, I'm seeing gargoyes in a whole new light now, living in a world with mortals - us humans, and how a divide has formed since the war and now some higher ranked "myths" have had enough!
The book is written in 3 POVs - the three main characters in the book. I love Eira and Cole's relationship and how down-to-earth and "human" Cole is.
It is worth noting that this is not a love triangle, and all three are interlinked through their bonds but only one is a soul bond, the other bond is revealed early on and is slightly less conventional than what we are used to reading in the fantasy genre.
There is limited world-building, and for me, it's the right amount to know what is going on and getting back to the action - of which there is plenty.
There is a "what the heck" moment near the end of the book and a total heartache which I didn't see coming and has left me needing book three!
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed both books, the first is more action-packed and Bond of Eternity has the element of backstory, learning more about all the characters and a small shock factor. It's different, it's exciting and it's a new fantasy series I can get on board with.
For those who enjoy fantasy and romantasy, I feel you will also enjoy the Equal Rise series. There is no spice so ideal for young adults too.
It has all the elements to make a great fantasy series from a new author. We have love and humour, a strong female lead, strong handsome men, good vs evil and a new type of bat boy! You will fall in love with all the characters!
There are shock factors, traitors and unanswered questions! It appears to be Roxan's style to leave us hanging and now I'm here waiting for a book 3 as I NEED ANSWERS!!
Bond of Eternity" by Roxan Burley is the second book in the "Equal Rise" series, a dystopian fantasy that follows the interconnected lives of Cole, Eira, and Oran as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world.
The novel picks up where the first book left off, with the trio facing new challenges and consequences after shattering the glass tower. Eira finds herself in a dangerous situation, forced to protect Oran's mind at all costs while uncovering a devastating secret. Meanwhile, Cole struggles with his inability to save those he cares about despite having a drop of power in his blood. Oran, tasked with leading his clan, must confront his past as it threatens to unravel his future.
As they come together to face a formidable enemy, the bonds of their friendship are tested by secrets and jealousy. Burley weaves a complex and captivating tale of loyalty, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a better future in a world filled with danger and uncertainty.
Overall, "Bond of Eternity" is a thrilling addition to the series, with intricate world-building, engaging characters, and a gripping plot that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Fans of dystopian fiction and fantasy will not be disappointed by this enthralling story of survival and redemption.
I was so excited to be back with Eira, Cole, Oran and the team! It seamlessly follows on from Book one, transporting us straight back into this urban dystopian setting perfectly merging the real world with incredible fantasy elements. It’s a fast-paced and action-packed read; a whirlwind of danger, discovery and suspense awaits!
The wonderful storytelling immerses the reader in this dark tale of myths, power, and the battle of good v evil. Eira is a strong character whose fierce beliefs ignite a rebellion where differences are embraced and equality is paramount. However, as her power increases so does the cost of wielding it…
I loved the multiple points of views and the distinct, compelling stories each character brings. It was good being back with the team – I adore the family unit they find in each other through the deep and meaningful connections forged.
With new threats, unexpected perils, and enemies as volatile as the world they inhabit, everyone is tested to their limits. Who will win this fight for survival? I was in complete suspense!
Bond of Eternity is gloriously imaginative, has a riveting plot, and will have you feeling the rage, sadness and laughter right alongside these lovable characters. Such a brilliant series!
With thanks to @literallypr for my copy and place on the Tour.
In this book, we start right back on the story from Book 1 with Cole, Eira, and Oran back navigating this unique dystopian UK where human and legends coexist!
Roxan has a very matter-of-fact style of writing, which works well given the genre and coupled with the world-building - it builds intrigue and tension as they battle The Dark.
I absolutely loved how Roxan blended UK life with mythical creatures as this created a world that isn't seen often ❤️.
I enjoyed the characters' interactions and how Roxan developed them, especially the 3 main ones.
The chapters were short, so you didn't feel overwhelmed with what was going on, and the POV switches were flawless, which really helped with enjoying the POV switches.
Given that ending, though... I can't wait to read Book 3 to see what happens next!
Highly recommend to all fantasy / dystopian lovers!
This was a fantastic book and another beautiful effort from Roxan. It's a great continuation to the series!
The cover is stunning. I'm assuming we have Cole on the cover. Nice to actually see a representation of him! The colours are beautiful. It's a great design.
The writing is exquisite and flows perfectly. The descriptions and word choice etc are all perfect for the genre.
The continues world building in this dystopian London is gorgeous. I love what Roxan does. Her attention to detail is second to none.
I love, love, love the characters! They're so well thought out and fit in perfectly. It's great to see Eira, Oran, Cole and returning favourites back! Again I love how gargoyles are portrayed. This representation of the race is excellent and I actually enjoy Oran a lot.
I cannot recommend this book enough to you all. The whole series to date is beautiful. You should check it out!
Bond of Eternity is the follow up to Bloodstream of Moonlight and the second installment of the Equal Rise series.
It's my favourite fantasy genre, urban dystopia and it's based in the UK. We're seamlessly transported back into the thick of the action, reunited with Cole, Eira and Oran as they battle to survive in their hope for a better future.
It's great to see the character development and I can't wait to see how they further in the next book.
I haven't read book 1 and while I feel this could definitely be read alone I think the story comes together so much better if book 1 is read first.
I felt like this was a good start to the world of dystopian fantasy as someone who is still exploring the fantasy genre and trying to find my sweet spot is really was a great intro into that. This was a story of love and loss, a story of family tiles and betrayal and of of two who should not be together becoming one. I enjoyed all the fast paced battles and the moments of tenderness, I enjoyed the mushy snippets of tender moments amongst the pain and anguish and I enjoyed the overall premise of whats worth fighting for. Another enjoyable element was the abundance of magic and whimsy, the fantasy creatures, the magic bonds and overall fantastical feel of something of another world set in a modern day city.
This was such an enjoyable read and I will definitely be going back to read the first book just to get a better insight into the magic and relationships that had already formed by book 2.
Here is my review for Bond Of Eternity by Roxan Burley
I just loved this book from the start. I love the characters, I like what they stand for and they are there for each other at all times. Their mission is to fight The Dark but then a bigger problem comes along, Eira’s father Ambrose. He is desperate for her opal necklace and she knows it. Oran has to go back to the clan to claim his chieftainship but between them they make sure that Eira is prepared for her father. At least they hope they have a plan in place. This was just a brilliant book and I loved it all the way through. The writing was just breathtaking and the imagination of the author to come up with this amazing story has astounded me. I’m so pleased to read this book as now I’m a big fan and hope there is more to come in this series from these characters. This book had me hooked from the start and I found it hard to put down.
Blurb :
A bond accepted. An oath sworn. Three lives intrinsically linked, seeking a better future.
But can they maintain what they started? Shattering the glass tower had far flung consequences, but Cole, Eira and Oran’s problems have just started. When Eira gets held hostage via her Bloodstream, she has no choice but to protect Oran’s mind at all costs. But the secret she discovers there could destroy everything they’ve worked for. Cole’s humanity weighs on him as he fails to protect those he cares about. What’s the point of the drop of power in his blood if he can’t use it to help anyone? Oran needs to take his place as the leader of his clan, but the past is quickly catching up to him. Together, they must face an enemy even greater than the Dark, but will secrets and jealousy get in the way?
My rating is actually 4.5 stars but Goodreads doesn't allow for half stars.
This is booked two in the equal rise series and is a dystopian romantic, and picks up right where book one left off. Whilst our trio and their friends won the battle with the dark, there is still a long way to go before the war is one, and all the different factions are united. They are working towards a better future for all, but not everyone wants to live in a world where they have to mix with other races. And if that’s not enough, the dark may be down but they are definitely not out. What a great book, this instalment certainly didn’t disappoint, I was sucked back into the world of elves, gargoyles, trolls, goblins, ghosts, and so much more, from the very first page. Talk about an emotional rollercoaster ride with plot twists galore it’s a bit darker than book one, and our trio and their inner circle are certainly put through the ringer, even more so than last time. I absolutely loved it and whilst it has been a hot minute since I read book one I was immediately pulled back into the amazing world Roxanne has created from the very first sentence. I found myself savouring each and every word as I didn’t want this book to end. The world building is awesome, the writing style is great, it’s fast paced and the story is totally engrossing, I could go on and on! The story shows what can be achieved if only biases and prejudices are pushed aside and people work together for a common cause. And oh my God what an ending! I certainly didn’t expect that Roxanne what are you doing to us? I cannot wait for the next instalment of this amazing series. This was a fantastic 4.5 star read for me and I would highly recommend it. Everyone needs this series in their life!
Diving straight back into the world of Eira, Oran, Cole, and all the incredible mythical creatures in book two of the Equal Rise Series felt like coming home to pure fantasy magic ✨🐉.
The second I finished book one, I picked this one up - and just like before, I could not put it down. There's something about the world Roxan Burley has created that refuses to let go of me. Honestly, it's like this universe has its giant claws sunk deep into my imagination... though maybe it's the other way around, and I'm just not ready to let it go.
I didn't think the characters could get any better, but they absolutely did. The depth and development throughout this book took them to another level. Eira, especially - she's such a fierce, layered character, and I would 100% love to be besties with her. (Also, can we talk about those powers? I'm officially jealous. Imagine if we all had powers?!). As for my gargoyle obsession - Oran remains my ultimate favourite (I mean, he's 7ft tall, how could he not?💭), but I have to admit Cole has a place in my heart too.
The fantasy and plot are so beautifully woven together - it honestly felt like I was right there, living the story as it unfolded in front of me🌌. That's no small feat, but Roxan Burley pulls it off effortlessly. The mix of secrets, action, loyalty, and love gives the story incredible depth, and the tangled relationships between the characters only make it more addictive🔮🤍. And yes, we still get the multiple POVs - which, let's be real, is my absolute favourite thing. My nosy little reader heart was thriving💓.
This was kindly gifted to me for an honest review.
This was an amazing sequal, it brought alot of things to light and we got to delve even more into the world building for each of the characters, bringing about alot of conclusions as well as alot of new questions. I liked seeing alot of this one being from Coles perspective, I think he had really interesting thoughts and development and its an interesting perspective given his position in the group. His connections to the others grew , I especially liked his friendship with Nelka with the ways they bonded and he took care of her. There was alot of the history that was explored and expanded on that helped with understanding what actually led to the current events. It is very action packed with alot happening all of the time and has alot of high emotions especially towards the end. I also liked finally getting to see more of the crescent clan and their dynamic as well as Eiras home with her aunt and uncle. I quite liked Gaias character, with her shadows and her wanting to stay hidden within the darkness but finally starting to spread outwards, especially with how Oran saw a new side of her. There was alot of new alliances, friendships and betrayals that come up that really make the characters have to reevaluate everything they actually know and trust. I loved the way the twists were handled and I think it has started a great build up to whatever happens next. I think theres alot Eira finally needs some answers to.
Bond of Eternity is book two in Roxan's Urban dystopian series and has a great twist on the urban fantasy genre. Set in a dystopian london, those with magic live in secret, and The Dark roam the streets.
Eira, Cole, and Oran are rallying whatever allies they can make to challenge the resistance and take them down.
This series has one of the best found family storylines I've read in a long time. If you know me, you'll know I'm a sucker for that trope, and it is a non-negotiable in whatever I read. It's not all smooth sailing for the MC's and their relationships. The challenges they face are skillfully woven into the dynamics of their relationships and really adds depth to the story.
One of my favourite things in this series is how Roxan brings together magic and technology and creates devices tech tycoons wish they could patent!!
Around the 60% mark, you can really feel the tension rising as it ramps up for the finale.
And the ending 😭 I had a feeling and it still hurt the same.
I really enjoy this series and Roxan's writing and can't wait to read book 3 when it's published later in the year!
Bond of Eternity is book two in the Equal Rise series and having read book one, I was really looking forward to this read, and it certainly did not disappoint.
We jump right back into the dystopian U.K world of the first book, with our main characters Cole, Eira and Oran as they continue to battle the Dark.
As in the first book, the urban fantasy setting in book two is engaging and interesting, in a world where mythical creatures like elves, trolls and gargoyles live amongst humans.
In book two, there is alot more story building, but not as much action as book one, but still a fair bit.
We learn alot more about the characters here, their relationships feel natural and organic, and there is a decent level of world building.
I wanted to start this review out by saying I did not read the first book and I should have to get a better understanding for the story. So make sure you read book 1! The author did write an engaging read, however. I found myself reading from the first page and loved the setting of the urban UK with the mythical creatures in this book. We see trolls, elves, and more in this book as part of our world as a reader.
There are 3 characters in this book that are the MC’s, Eira, Oran, and Cole. They are all facing challenges in their personal lives and also they are trying to defeat an enemy together. The world that the author builds is an amazingly built world with lots of action/drama/ and fantasy to make the readers feel the story as they read. The bond of friendship is tested to the limits in this book between the 3 friends!
I recommend this read to fans of fantasy and dystopian fans too!
If Bloodstream of Moonlight was an interesting ride, then Bond of Eternity said “Besties, here we go” and drove us straight into YA dystopian chaos with extra angst, high stakes, and a whole lot of feelings and anticipation.
We’ve got: - Eira literally being held hostage through her Bloodstream (yikes??) while protecting Oran’s mind at all costs. - Cole spiralling over his humanity and whether his power is even worth it. - Oran juggling messy clan politics AND ghosts of his past.
Meanwhile me: please, children, communicate before everything burns down.
This book is all about bonds tested, oaths weighed, and secrets that could ruin EVERYTHING.
There’s action, danger, morally grey choices, and just the right sprinkle of jealousy fuelled drama.
It’s got that YA dystopian energy. Fast paced, emotional, and just a little messy (in a good way).
Think Divergent meets Shadowhunters with a romantasy twist.
I was so excited to dive into this book and Roxanne once again has delivered an amazing dystopian novel that will have you forgetting reality for the duration of this read. From amazing and vivid world building to complex characters that feel real and relatable there is something in this novel for everyone. I love the whole mythical creatures living alongside humans as well as how the author included bonds between characters, it definitely made this feel mythical.
Fast paced and a unique story line that will instantly suck you in, this novel is packed with just the right amount of adventure and action. While this is a fantays/mythical book, it's still set within the UK which I found interesting and gave the plot a bit of realism. If you love fantasy books the this series is definitely for you.
This book, THIS BOOK! Soul destroyed me. After finishing the last word I sat there staring at my bedroom wall like my whole life had come crashing down, I cried and took a nap. LITERALLY took a nap, with my tears dried up on my face.
I absolutely love how captivated I get within the authors writing style, they way they unfold the storyline. They way they grip you by the neck and dangle you dangerously off the edge of sanity, making you forget about real like and being apart of this story, at one with the characters like your there, standing, fighting, loving, crying and laughing with them.
I don't think my soul will recover from the ending of this book, or perhaps it will once I read book 3, only time and patience will answer that! But I do have to say I am inlove with this series!
Bond of Eternity by Roxan Burley. Equal Rise Book 2. I absolutely loved this book. I'm really really enjoying this series. I love everything about this book. The cover. The writing style and the story. I loved the setting. I would love to see this as a mini-series on TV. That would be amazing. I listened to this book on Ku. I loved the different elves, gargoyles, trolls, goblins, and ghosts. Eira and Cole and Nelka and Oran are my favourite characters. I also loved Oswald the Chimaera. I also loved Tag and Flint and Gaia. I really didn't like Ambrose. There are definitely a lot of surprises in this book that i didn't see coming. Oh my. She has done it again. I need book 3. Like now. I definitely recommend this series.
Back into the world of Eira, Cole and Oran we go! It picks up where book one left off. Still set in the UK, I like the idea of mortals and immortals mixing. We meet a few new characters in this one but all have their part to play as the book progresses.
Another enjoyable read and I'm wondering where the next book will lead us? I love reading about magic and bonds, special connections made by love or the mind. Strong bonds, talking telepathically between Eira, Cole and Oran sounds a handy thing to have!
I really like the world building, the character progression and the storyline. It creates suspension in the right places and makes you want to find out which way the cookie will crumble!
what an epic second instalment in the series. This book was all go from the very first page and it has some many twists and turns and the story had my utterly hooked. Eira is an absolute powerhouse in the book. Her power just keeps changing and becoming more and more complex. I love the bonds between all of the characters they each have such unique relationships.
The continued world building in this book opens the series up so much and I am so excited to see where it takes us next.
Can we just take a moment to acknowledge that ending though..... utterly shocked and can't wait to find out what will happen.
Bond of Eternity drops us straight into the action picking up where we left off in book 1. The writing is engaging and creates lavish descriptions of the world building with its magic amongst the back drop of London. Which gives it a familiar feeling whilst reading but also creates that magical connection. The plotline is complex with more twists and turns creating an atmosphere of tension as I was reading. The characters are developed so well throughout this book and the fast pacing keeps us readers engaged with it's suspension. A great read.
Bond of eternity is the second instalment after Bloodstream of Moonlight
An enjoyable read with plenty of standout moments, twists, plenty of magic, and enjoyable main characters (with their POVs so not just a solo POV)! I don’t get to read many dystopian books but to find one that is based within the UK is a fun bonus, with the references made it was a change from my norm in fantasy.
Would I recommend this book to others? Yeah, I would! I’m sure lovers of fantasy, romantasy & dystopian stories would thoroughly enjoy this series!
Thank you to the author & LBT for having me tour this book 🫶🏻
Bond of Eternity is the second book in the Equal Rose Series by the author. The action kicks off from the very beginning. There are loads of mythical creatures like elves, trolls, dwarves living among humans but the two groups are now divided after the war. The story is told in three different points of views which I really enjoyed as it gives a deeper insight into the characters. Once again, the book is engaging, exciting and well written. There was something that happened at the end of the story that was really unexpected, sadly!
I really enjoyed the first one, Bloodstream of Moonlight, but Bond of Eternity takes the emotions up a notch or ten! Bond of Eternity was wonderful! Burley continues her amazing world and character development in the second book of the series. Things are more emotional, more intense and more gripping. If you are looking for a unique fantasy book that has romance and adventure and fantastic world building, this is the eel series for you! I honestly can’t wait to see what happens next to these fantastic characters!
A gripping continuation of the Equal Rise series, blending urban fantasy with emotional intensity. The pacing is fast and addictive, yet it never sacrificed the character depth. Eira, Cole, and Oran shine with their distinct voices and struggles. The stakes felt higher than ever, with twists that genuinely surprised me. I loved how themes of loyalty, unity, and sacrifice threaded through the action. Suspenseful, heartfelt, and immersive, this book kept me hooked until the last page.