A review by slothmomma0812
Direbound: A Dark Romantasy by Sable Sorensen

adventurous emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

 
Direbound is hands down the best Fantasy Romance of 2025! 

I had the privilege of receiving an ARC copy of Direbound, this is my honest review.
 
A must read for anyone who loves:
🐺Temperamental bonds between humans and Direwolves
🩸Vampires (Siphons) blamed for the war that has been ongoing for hundreds of years.
🔥Twists that you won’t see coming and will leave you speechless!

Sorensen weaves a gripping tale that proves family is about loyalty, love and the pack that chooses you and that you cannot always trust or believe what someone says just because they claim to love you. Add in some epic world building, found family vibes, an emotional rollercoaster and breathtaking action makes this a book you will not be able to put down once you begin.

Summary of Plot
Children are being abducted by Nabbers working with the Siphons—vampire-like creatures that use their incredible speed and blood magic to instill fear. When Meryn Cooper’s sister is taken by the Nabbers she goes on a perilous quest to rescue her sister. In an unexpected turn of events, Meryn joins the army, with the never ending war between Nocturna and Asterona joining the army is her best chance at getting closer to where her sister has been taken. 

But Fate isn’t kind to Meryn when it is announced that all new recruits will be required to take part in the Bonding Trials, for the chance at Bonding with a Direwolf and becoming one of the king’s elite Bonded. To find and save her sister Meryn Cooper must first survive the Bonded Trails, despite her disdain. Anassa, a powerful Direwolf, chooses to bond with Meryn despite Meryn’s feelings. Meryn has the potential for a powerful alliance with Anassa, if she can only learn to trust and listen to the Direwolf. Trust, loyalty and pack bond are tested repeatedly as she encounters treacherous foes.  Meryn must discern friend from enemy in a world where nothing is as it seems. Will she be in time to save her sister or will the Siphons drain her before Meryn can save her?

Themes 
Direbound weaves themes of self-discovery, courage, loyalty, and trust throughout. Meryn's journey is one of self-discovery, as she wrestles with the unforeseen challenges that fate throws upon her path. Her resolve is representative of the courage that drives her going against overwhelming odds, loyalty emerges as the binding force, both in her quest to save her sister and her newfound role.

Characters 
At the heart of the story is Meryn Cooper, a young woman who has had a difficult life having to care for her mentally ill mother and younger sister, but those relationships are her driving core. There is nothing Meryn won’t do to save her sister and bring her home to their mother. Her character evolves significantly, as the challenges she faces demand she make difficult choices, and if she chooses wrong lives will be lost. 

Alongside Meryn every step of the way is her Direwolf, Anassa, and her pack of Rawbonds, especially the twins who quickly become her best friends. 

Conclusion  
Direbound is a story that will captivate fans of fantasy and adventure, with a sprinkling of romance too. A thrilling read that leaves a lasting impression and will have readers going back for more! This book is a worthy addition to any bookshelf.

 
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