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Vows That Bind
The heart knows what it wants…
If experienced lifestyler Jewel Kane could have anything, it would be the perfect Mistress - bold, commanding, and consuming her every breath. That’s why her friends introduce her to a niche matchmaking service that will make her forbidden dreams come true. She only needs to show up to a media mogul’s high-rise office for the first date of a lifetime.
The body knows what it needs…
Recently burned by the love of her life, entrepreneur Elena Zelenko has a heart harder than steel and colder than ice. Yet when she meets Jewel, she becomes instantly attached. Not that Elena believes anyone could replace the woman she once loved more than her career. She doesn’t believe in miracles, no matter how perfect and natural they feel in her bed.
The more the dates go by, however, the more Elena realizes that Jewel may be her last chance at lasting happiness. Their instantaneous chemistry and ravenous hunger for one another can’t be a fluke.
The soul knows what it yearns to have…
A romantic weekend in New York seals their fate. Elena and Jewel enter the most legally binding contract that two women can sign. What ensues is the epic fallout of their whirlwind affair.
While optimistic Jewel embraces her new life as the partner of the city’s toughest Domme, Elena spirals into self-doubt and regrets about her life before Jewel. If they are to remember why it feels so right, they’ll have to prove that their love is more than pageantry and passion.
It’s destiny.
VOWS THAT BIND is an insta-love tale with a happy ending. It features a couple who embrace an alternative full-time lifestyle.
If experienced lifestyler Jewel Kane could have anything, it would be the perfect Mistress - bold, commanding, and consuming her every breath. That’s why her friends introduce her to a niche matchmaking service that will make her forbidden dreams come true. She only needs to show up to a media mogul’s high-rise office for the first date of a lifetime.
The body knows what it needs…
Recently burned by the love of her life, entrepreneur Elena Zelenko has a heart harder than steel and colder than ice. Yet when she meets Jewel, she becomes instantly attached. Not that Elena believes anyone could replace the woman she once loved more than her career. She doesn’t believe in miracles, no matter how perfect and natural they feel in her bed.
The more the dates go by, however, the more Elena realizes that Jewel may be her last chance at lasting happiness. Their instantaneous chemistry and ravenous hunger for one another can’t be a fluke.
The soul knows what it yearns to have…
A romantic weekend in New York seals their fate. Elena and Jewel enter the most legally binding contract that two women can sign. What ensues is the epic fallout of their whirlwind affair.
While optimistic Jewel embraces her new life as the partner of the city’s toughest Domme, Elena spirals into self-doubt and regrets about her life before Jewel. If they are to remember why it feels so right, they’ll have to prove that their love is more than pageantry and passion.
It’s destiny.
VOWS THAT BIND is an insta-love tale with a happy ending. It features a couple who embrace an alternative full-time lifestyle.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2021
128 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 16, 2021
I usually love Cynthia’s books, but this one didn’t quite do it for me. I somewhat enjoyed it, but I didn’t feel connected to it or connected to the characters. I don’t know. I don’t wanna spoil anything, so I won’t give any details, but the way things happened just didn’t make me feel invested in the story. And I also didn’t feel any chemistry between the MCs. Hopefully the next one will make me fall in love with it.
July 29, 2023
2 stars. Elena is so hung up on her ex Renee that I thought this was going to end with her getting back together with her. It would’ve been better for Jewel because she deserved so much better than Elena’s selfish ass. There is absolutely no chemistry whatsoever between Elena and Jewel because of the previously mentioned Elena still being in love with her ex thing but also they both weren’t the most interesting characters. Elena is a terrible Domme and Jewel, while incredibly sweet, is a doormat. She just accepts whatever shit Elena does with no type of pushback. Jewel is a submissive through and through and she deserved someone who was more attentive and loving with her. Elena didn’t even do aftercare for goodness sake! Can we do the bare minimum please? Jesus. I just really didn’t enjoy this. I mean they got married and Elena still treated Jewel like the second option. I was ready to fight at the point honestly. Didn’t like anything about this and I’m glad to be done with it.
April 8, 2023
No one writes a good old kinky romance like Cynthia Dane does. Hit all the right spots for me this time. Wouldn't mind seeing Elena & Jewel appearing again in the other novels.
EDIT: I think the main draw for me was Elena's character, a workaholic billionaire burned by her long term partner. The tragic ending with the ex could have been avoided with some proper communication, but instead she was cheated on so I guess it was a blessing in disguise. The new sub Jewel is patient, loyal, mature, and willing to work things through, just the perfect partner for Elena. The relationship is pretty intense and gives a sense of emotional closeness, which I can't really explain, but is something that a lot of romance stories lack. This has become one of my favourite Dane-Billings novels. 💕
EDIT: I think the main draw for me was Elena's character, a workaholic billionaire burned by her long term partner. The tragic ending with the ex could have been avoided with some proper communication, but instead she was cheated on so I guess it was a blessing in disguise. The new sub Jewel is patient, loyal, mature, and willing to work things through, just the perfect partner for Elena. The relationship is pretty intense and gives a sense of emotional closeness, which I can't really explain, but is something that a lot of romance stories lack. This has become one of my favourite Dane-Billings novels. 💕
August 29, 2021
Such complicated things - emotions and relationships. I enjoy reading Hildred Billings. I feel like Vow That Bind delved into BDSM more than previous books.
September 1, 2021
An Exciting Read!
There are certain books that are read at night, some are even read with a cup of tea relaxing but this book had just enough that you couldn’t put it down. I love Hildred Billings writing. The BDSM storyline is always an exciting read and this book did not disappoint. Jewel knew what she needed in her life and using a matchmaking service went after it. Elena needed someone new after her last sub left her. When these two are brought together on their first of five trial dates , sparks fly. Chemistry overload. Excitement galore. Add to this a beautiful story, despite opposition from the people that supposedly cares for them. But through it all, can Elena get pass her ex and the hurt she caused to accept someone else. This was just a really good story. I would have like to see Jewel even as a submissive person, take Cally down a notch as I felt she did with Renee, Elena’s ex. Still very much enjoyed…..
There are certain books that are read at night, some are even read with a cup of tea relaxing but this book had just enough that you couldn’t put it down. I love Hildred Billings writing. The BDSM storyline is always an exciting read and this book did not disappoint. Jewel knew what she needed in her life and using a matchmaking service went after it. Elena needed someone new after her last sub left her. When these two are brought together on their first of five trial dates , sparks fly. Chemistry overload. Excitement galore. Add to this a beautiful story, despite opposition from the people that supposedly cares for them. But through it all, can Elena get pass her ex and the hurt she caused to accept someone else. This was just a really good story. I would have like to see Jewel even as a submissive person, take Cally down a notch as I felt she did with Renee, Elena’s ex. Still very much enjoyed…..
August 29, 2021
Elena was the villain!
I had to force myself to read this one sadly. I really didn’t like Elena. Didn’t feel any connection with the couple at all. The only people I enjoyed in this book was Cally and Renee. Elena was just a terrible domm/wife to me. I feel like Jewel should of listened to Renee and got the heck out of there. LOVED Cally!
I had to force myself to read this one sadly. I really didn’t like Elena. Didn’t feel any connection with the couple at all. The only people I enjoyed in this book was Cally and Renee. Elena was just a terrible domm/wife to me. I feel like Jewel should of listened to Renee and got the heck out of there. LOVED Cally!
December 22, 2023
Read For:
BDSM
Lesbians
Domestic Fluff
Dom/sub Relationship
Insta-Love Vibes (but not creepy)
I really enjoyed this audiobook it gave off the vibe of one of the (good) Wattpad stories I would have read a few years ago. While the romance happens pretty quickly it’s paced out well and the characters dynamics work really well with one another.
Though I will say it did get really annoying how Elena was SO caught up on her ex Renee. I know they had years together and there was trauma with how she cheated but it just got annoying when Elena started a new relationship but was still caught up with what her ex did.
The plot was nothing too memorable but it was really cute. While this is mostly spicy content there was a lot of domestic fluff and wholesome moments between the characters as well.
Release Date: 14, March 2022
POV: Switching, Third Person
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rep: Lesbian Characters
⚠️ Content Warnings:
Graphic: Toxic relationship (past), Cursing, and Sexual content
Moderate: Infidelity
Minor: Toxic friendship
January 26, 2024
Not everything that bends will break…
There seems to be a few rules to writing this genre. Age gap, wealth gap, sub, dom. And I enjoy these tropes.
But I will always struggle with a story that sees the two main characters walking down the aisle within a few short months, if that, of knowing one another.
Elena is also by far the most forceful dom I’ve encountered and honestly, there were scenes that were a bridge too far for me. I would have liked to have seen a softer side to Elena. But Elena is also the first lifestyle dom I’ve read, so perhaps her abrasive nature is part of that? Perhaps being in control 24/7 doesn’t lend well to exposing a softer side.
There were elements missing here - at times Elena suffered through a malaise that wasn’t fully expanded upon. We knew her ex left her, we knew why but although explanation, they were almost an afterthought.
I enjoyed this for what it was - a dom/sub sapphic romance with plenty of erotica, but I can’t say it’s a story I will revisit any time soon.
There seems to be a few rules to writing this genre. Age gap, wealth gap, sub, dom. And I enjoy these tropes.
But I will always struggle with a story that sees the two main characters walking down the aisle within a few short months, if that, of knowing one another.
Elena is also by far the most forceful dom I’ve encountered and honestly, there were scenes that were a bridge too far for me. I would have liked to have seen a softer side to Elena. But Elena is also the first lifestyle dom I’ve read, so perhaps her abrasive nature is part of that? Perhaps being in control 24/7 doesn’t lend well to exposing a softer side.
There were elements missing here - at times Elena suffered through a malaise that wasn’t fully expanded upon. We knew her ex left her, we knew why but although explanation, they were almost an afterthought.
I enjoyed this for what it was - a dom/sub sapphic romance with plenty of erotica, but I can’t say it’s a story I will revisit any time soon.
October 13, 2021
I am confusion
I read a lot of Cynthia and Hildred. Like a lot. And this was the most far fetched story I’ve ever read in my life.
Spoiler Alert! They have five dates that are purely based around sex and they’re in love?! When it’s clear that Elena is clearly still in love with Renee, her ex? And Elena gets married to spite Renee. Let’s be for real. Well, why would she do that? Because she doesn’t love Jewel. I just- I always hesitate at stories where people fall in love in 5 days, especially when they aren’t over their ex. And Elena clearly needs counseling. I thought that the entirety of the novel.
I read a lot of Cynthia and Hildred. Like a lot. And this was the most far fetched story I’ve ever read in my life.
Spoiler Alert! They have five dates that are purely based around sex and they’re in love?! When it’s clear that Elena is clearly still in love with Renee, her ex? And Elena gets married to spite Renee. Let’s be for real. Well, why would she do that? Because she doesn’t love Jewel. I just- I always hesitate at stories where people fall in love in 5 days, especially when they aren’t over their ex. And Elena clearly needs counseling. I thought that the entirety of the novel.
March 10, 2023
If you know this author duo- you know exactly what steamy scenes and spicy ladies you are about to become acquainted with. A doting but troubled Domme meets her soul match in a quintessential sub that really takes her Domme to task. Sure, power dynamics allow for a lot of play between the MC's but it also causes quite the character crisis halfway through the book. The plot twists that inched the story forward were a bit- far fetched? But for fiction it kept it entertaining. There was a wee bit too much trust coming from Jewel- unearned, blind-faith, that lead to a live declaration that had my head spinning but I did enjoy their D/s journey. Overall, fun BDSM read for some saucy fiction.
August 20, 2021
Strong love
As usual I loved this book, by these wonderful authors. Strong women. They know what they want and try to get it. Elena thought she had the love of her life. She was left for a man. Jewel wanted a woman to control her every move. But Jewel is far from a weak person. She will fight for her love if she has to. Elena is a strong dominant who is losing her confidence. I enjoyed how these two women come together. This books has some characters from Everything She Needs. So enjoy that book also. And there several hot 🔥steamy scenes.
As usual I loved this book, by these wonderful authors. Strong women. They know what they want and try to get it. Elena thought she had the love of her life. She was left for a man. Jewel wanted a woman to control her every move. But Jewel is far from a weak person. She will fight for her love if she has to. Elena is a strong dominant who is losing her confidence. I enjoyed how these two women come together. This books has some characters from Everything She Needs. So enjoy that book also. And there several hot 🔥steamy scenes.
September 13, 2021
Kinky, sexy, riches & love
“The most beautiful surfaces often hide an unfathomable ugliness underneath.”
+ • + • + • +
A good, entertaining story with interesting characters & hot sex scenes extremely well-written… What more do you really need for a good time reading?!
Its not one of the best books in this lesfic universe, but it still brings all the heat you expect from a Dane/Billings book.
“The most beautiful surfaces often hide an unfathomable ugliness underneath.”
+ • + • + • +
A good, entertaining story with interesting characters & hot sex scenes extremely well-written… What more do you really need for a good time reading?!
Its not one of the best books in this lesfic universe, but it still brings all the heat you expect from a Dane/Billings book.
November 19, 2023
Now this is one very hot love story!
Ms Billings and Ms Dane have such a magical way with words. I am weak in the knees after reading this and still wanting more. I loved the characters that have built such an intense bond. The supporting cast is just as important to the development of the story. This is one of those books that can affect one very deeply and I am so glad I read it.
Ms Billings and Ms Dane have such a magical way with words. I am weak in the knees after reading this and still wanting more. I loved the characters that have built such an intense bond. The supporting cast is just as important to the development of the story. This is one of those books that can affect one very deeply and I am so glad I read it.
August 20, 2021
Good book
Elena a woman that has a harden heart because of her ex, is wanting to try again. Jewel a woman that knows what she wants and a heart to serve. When they realize they are compatible, Elena is questioned about her dome and relationship with Jewel. When Elena goes miss Jewel does everything she can to find her. A beautiful love story of two women trying to make a HEA
Elena a woman that has a harden heart because of her ex, is wanting to try again. Jewel a woman that knows what she wants and a heart to serve. When they realize they are compatible, Elena is questioned about her dome and relationship with Jewel. When Elena goes miss Jewel does everything she can to find her. A beautiful love story of two women trying to make a HEA
September 7, 2021
Wonderful!
I think what I enjoy most about the books by Hildred Billings and Cynthia Dane is the recurring characters from book to book. Each book can be read as a stand alone, but having read the "minor players" stories previously, enhanced my reading pleasures. I highly recommend anything and everything they write!
I think what I enjoy most about the books by Hildred Billings and Cynthia Dane is the recurring characters from book to book. Each book can be read as a stand alone, but having read the "minor players" stories previously, enhanced my reading pleasures. I highly recommend anything and everything they write!
April 3, 2023
DNF for me, really not what I was expecting based on the synopsis and the cover, so I definitely was not expecting the instant and hardcore bdsm.
I may have been able to get past the lack of introduction, not knowing or caring for the characters but I couldn’t get past the terrible writing, so many exclamation points.
I may have been able to get past the lack of introduction, not knowing or caring for the characters but I couldn’t get past the terrible writing, so many exclamation points.
January 19, 2025
The first part of the book had some pretty heavy BDSM dynamics. It mellows out totally by the time the second part kicks in and felt quite odd. I wasn't very sold on Elena. I liked Jewel enough as well as Cally and Paris to keep reading. I think there are better books by this author. I was going to read the book about Astrid but now having read this I'm not too certain I like her very much. But I'm intrigued about Simone. Every time there is a butch or even slightly androgynous character in the book I'm drawn to them. I will probably read her story next.
August 27, 2021
Vows indeed
Jewel wanted a Dom a nd found a perfect fit with Elena. Elena wanted a loyal sub and this is what she got, remembering her ex's betrayal was hard at first to trust, but time heals all wounds.
Highly recommended, well written, edited good reading.
Jewel wanted a Dom a nd found a perfect fit with Elena. Elena wanted a loyal sub and this is what she got, remembering her ex's betrayal was hard at first to trust, but time heals all wounds.
Highly recommended, well written, edited good reading.
August 28, 2021
Another great read
I really enjoy the stories that these two writers create for our reading pleasure. The main characters story was a pleasure to read and I found it hard to put it down.
I really enjoy the stories that these two writers create for our reading pleasure. The main characters story was a pleasure to read and I found it hard to put it down.
September 1, 2021
Wow fantastic storyline
Wow fantastic storyline I loved the main characters chemistry was off the charts following then thought their journey to be together was incredibly written my favourite by far from Cynthia Dane , Hildred Billings congratulations
Wow fantastic storyline I loved the main characters chemistry was off the charts following then thought their journey to be together was incredibly written my favourite by far from Cynthia Dane , Hildred Billings congratulations
September 5, 2021
Domme and Submissive
Elena is a self-made business woman who owns a media empire. After her relationship of twelve years fails it takes time for her to recover. When she commissions a match maker she and Jewel find each other. It seem to be a perfect match. Erotic romance.
Elena is a self-made business woman who owns a media empire. After her relationship of twelve years fails it takes time for her to recover. When she commissions a match maker she and Jewel find each other. It seem to be a perfect match. Erotic romance.
May 21, 2022
Great book
I thought this book was wonderful. I loved how they met and how fast they became involved. I liked how Elena finally worked everything out in her head and was finally happy with Jewel.
I thought this book was wonderful. I loved how they met and how fast they became involved. I liked how Elena finally worked everything out in her head and was finally happy with Jewel.
September 17, 2021
Wonderful story
I have enjoyed this wonderful heartfelt story of two ladies one Elena a rich business woman and Jewel a self employed meet through a matchmaker.
I have enjoyed this wonderful heartfelt story of two ladies one Elena a rich business woman and Jewel a self employed meet through a matchmaker.
October 4, 2021
Very good
I really liked this book. The steamy parts are great. I liked the point of view from which the story is told. Worth a read.
I really liked this book. The steamy parts are great. I liked the point of view from which the story is told. Worth a read.
October 7, 2021
nice read
The book kept building on itself. I’d like to know more about Simone, I hope she gets her story which would be interesting.
The book kept building on itself. I’d like to know more about Simone, I hope she gets her story which would be interesting.
October 24, 2021
amazing
Amazing and wonderfully written. Second installment to the series that keeps getting better. Great characters that integrates ones from the first book. Hard to put down!
Amazing and wonderfully written. Second installment to the series that keeps getting better. Great characters that integrates ones from the first book. Hard to put down!
July 24, 2023
This was hard to get through, i almost DNF'd. To get through it i ended up skipping parts, simone was probably the only character i liked. Paris and cally were so annoying i wanted to smack them.
December 13, 2023
The beginning was great but a better ending would have been them starting to go to marriage counseling or inviting a therapist into their bedroom
January 19, 2025
This was ok. I feel like Elena had an inferiority complex that she couldn’t get past.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews