Content levels
Trigger warnings
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Tropes
Synopsis
A druid who denies himself nothing desires the only woman who believes magic and love don't mix. Aedan ap Owen misuses his Sidhe gifts for his own personal pleasures and the king's dark business at the Plantagenet court. Sent north to investigate rumors of treason and dispatch the troublemakers, Aedan discovers someone is murdering monks and stealing saints' relics. And all clues point to his kinsman the Earl of Carlisle. Lady Tess of Bridswell refuses to rekindle her relationship with Aedan. She knows his reputation as a secret stealer—and she has a secret that must be kept. But her resolve falters when her uncle promises her hand to a man she despises and Aedan appears her sole salvation. A would-be king uses the stolen relics to amplify his power, wielding it like a weapon. Meeting the traitor's magic with magic could prevent war, but it also would destroy Aedan's chance to show Tess he has at least mastered the temptation of the ancient wisdom. Can he renounce his magic to win Tess' heart anew, or will Aedan choose magic over love?
Ties That Bind: content & age rating
Intended for adult readers (18+).
This adult historical fantasy romance features political intrigue, murder mystery elements, a morally gray hero who must choose between his magical powers and love, and steamy romantic content between reunited lovers.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, steamy sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include murder, political violence, and power imbalance (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Adult readers who enjoy complex heroes facing difficult choices between power and love will be drawn to this politically charged fantasy romance.