From the Bookshelf of Indie Authors Monthly Magazine For Authors and Readers…

Blood Bound (Gallows, #1)

Sharon Stevenson

Start date: April 15, 2013

Finish date: April 22, 2013

Why we're reading this: Featured Book for 15 - 22 April 2013
[close] Featured Book for 15 - 22 April 2013

Find A Copy At

Group Discussions About This Book

No group discussions for this book yet.

What Members Thought

Apr 19, 2013 J.J. DiBenedetto rated it really liked it

"Blood Bound" by Sharon Stevenson is the story of twin demon hunters Shaun and Sarah. They're 19 years old, already somewhat jaded by their job, even as they're still getting used to their powers and learning all the ins and outs of the supernatural world (in Stevenson's universe, "our" world is shared by all manner of supernatural creatures: vampires, werewolves, fairies, witches, psychics and demons, to name a few).

The world definitely has a "Buffy" feel to it, with hunters who have special po "Blood Bound" by Sharon Stevenson is the story of twin demon hunters Shaun and Sarah. They're 19 years old, already somewhat jaded by their job, even as they're still getting used to their powers and learning all the ins and outs of the supernatural world (in Stevenson's universe, "our" world is shared by all manner of supernatural creatures: vampires, werewolves, fairies, witches, psychics and demons, to name a few).

The world definitely has a "Buffy" feel to it, with hunters who have special powers (mostly extraordinary speed, strength and senses; and the ability to "taste" magic and determine what sort of creature it's coming from) and who are destined to fulfill their duties; and mortals who are (mostly) ignorant of the supernaturals walking about, except when they're not.

All the characters are well-drawn, especially the twins. The story is told from their alternating viewpoints (in third person, rotating chapter-to-chapter between Shaun and Sarah), and they're both sympathetic and believable. Even when they make questionable choices, they've got good reasons, and it's impossible not to root for them to win out in the end.

The supporting characters, too, are interesting and have depth (except for the twins' parents, but that feels to me like a deliberate choice by the author, and also something that will change as the series continues in future books).

There's plenty of well-handled action, and a little bit of (non-explicit) bedroom action, as both twins face romantic problems that end up tied into their demon-hunting work.

There's also a lot of mystery and lurking conspiracy, which is tantalizing and also a little frustrating (both for Shaun and Sarah, and for me as a reader). About the only thing I would criticize in this book is that I'd have liked at least a couple of concrete answers by the end of the book. This isn't a huge problem, because I knew going in it was book #1 of a series with at least two more planned. The first book of a series always has the burden of setting up the world and laying out the Big Bad that will be fought over the rest of the books.

The writing is clear and engaging, and the book is well-edited, too. I enjoyed it, I'm looking forward to book #2, and I'd highly recommend it. ...more

3 likes · Like · see review

Dec 27, 2018 Jami Gray rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: uf-scifi-fantasy

A cheeky voice with unique twists hits the UF world in this intro into Sharon Stevenson's Gallows' series. If you're looking for a witty page-turning ride, hold on to your stakes and duster because this one will leave your heart pounding and a manic smile on your face. ...more

1 like · Like · see review

May 19, 2013 Cassandra rated it liked it

Shelves: magic, vampires, fae, shifters, witches, paranormal, hunters, daemons-demons, free-from-making-connections-group

My Thoughts - 3 out of 5 unicorns - I liked it!

I liked this story and especially both characters Shaun and Sarah. I’m not sure yet what caused it, but I was confused on several occasions and still have many questions that I’m hoping the 2nd book will clear up. This story is interesting, but I had no trouble when I needed a break putting it down. I usually get this though with the first book in a series. I know building a new world takes time. I’m looking forward to seeing where this series might ...more

1 like · Like · see review