Bound in Roses (Hawaiian Ladies' Riding Society #2) (2024)

Bound in Roses by Katherine Kayne was a really unique historical fantasy romance. The story is set in Hawaii during the early 1900s and I felt like I really learned a lot about Hawaiian culture and history from this book. It followed the protagonist named Lokelani Letwin, whose family owns a ranch in Hawaii. She loves agriculture and longs to run her family’s ranch, but her father won’t let her. This story also follows a lawyer named Artemus, who was a family friend of the Letwin’s as he helps Lokelani. This is the second book in The Hawaiian Ladies Riding Society series, and I have not read the first one.

The story seems to be cut into two parts. The first part revolves around Lokelani and her journey to reclaim some roses that she had cultivated herself while at school, that were stolen by her ex-fiance’s family. The second part of this story is about her learning more about herself. This is where the fantasy part of the story really comes in. The two parts of the story seemed pretty separated. After the conclusion of the rose story, it almost seemed like the story would be over, but then we are introduced to a second, completely different problem. This was slightly disconcerting, however, the writing style of the story was done well and I was able to follow the different aspects relatively easily.

The characters of Lokelani and Artemus were interesting and likable. Their relationship was definitely a slow burn, but it was realistic and seemed genuine. Lokelani was a strong female character and fought for what she wanted. Artemus was a perfect complement to her as he wanted to help her and build her up, but didn’t try and do everything for her. Both characters were written well and I enjoyed learning more about them as they story went on. Lokelani, especially, had good character development.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. There were moments that seemed to move a bit slow for my liking, but I do tend to enjoy a faster pace, so this could just be a preference of mine. The characters were well written and the story was interesting and unique. I felt like the historical aspect of this book was really important to the storyline and I learned a lot from it. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a historical fantasy with a mild romance involved. I liked this book enough that I am interested in reading the first book in the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Title: Bound in Roses(The Hawaiian Ladies’ Riding Society2) by Katherine Kayne

3.5 Stars

I received this book in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.

Step into the enchanting world of Hawaiian folklore and romance with this historical fantasy novel. This book offers readers a captivating blend of tradition, fantasy, and love. With its unique twist on Hawaiian customs and beliefs, this novel is a refreshing and immersive read that transports readers to a world unlike any other.

After a failed engagement in San Francisco, Lokelani "Lucky" Letwin returns to Hawaii, leaving her beloved rosebushes behind. Eager to establish her own life despite societal expectations, Lucky grapples with her passion for plants and her family's past. Unbeknownst to her, she is a mākāhā, a Gate, connected to the power of the land. Reunited with childhood friend Artemus Chang, now a successful lawyer, their bond reignites as they embark on a quest to retrieve Lucky's roses. However, Artemus is stunned to find that Lucky's kisses leave him breathless, hinting at her supernatural abilities. With the guidance of a mystical teacher, Lucky embraces her ancestral power, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and ancient magic.

Katherine Kayne's writing style is immersive and evocative, transporting readers to the heart of Hawaii with vivid descriptions and lyrical prose. While some readers may need to google unfamiliar Olelo Hawai'i words (I did!), the overall narrative is easy to follow and engaging. The incorporation of Hawaiian customs and beliefs adds depth and authenticity to the story, creating a rich tapestry of culture and tradition that captivates the imagination.

Katherine Kayne presents a fresh perspective on Hawaii's rich cultural heritage by weaving in a unique twist on traditional customs and beliefs. It appeals to fans of romance, fantasy, and historical fiction alike, offering captivating storytelling.

Readers are sure to be enchanted and delighted by the immersive experience this book provides. You can even learn some Olelo Hawai'i along the way!

This is a truly fantastic story! It's a little bit of everything all mixed into one amazing book. I have really enjoyed the other two books in this series and I couldn't wait to read Bound in Roses. I may also be slightly biased as I have a horse named Lokelani and it was a fun coincidence that the main character in Bound in Roses was also named Lokelani.

I actually liked that it was a little bit of everything because it ended up being the best of all the worlds. The story had a compelling romance, a intriguing mystery and a fantastical mystical quality. All while also having two great main characters and a wonderful cast of supporting characters.

I adored Artie! He was such a sweet guy and his devotion and adoration for Lokelani were commendable. He was really well depicted and my heart went out to him for the trials he had to go though.

I really liked Lokelani and that we really got to see her mature and grow into her own throughout the story. She was quite strong and resilient. She was also willing to stand up for what she believed in wholeheartedly and that is very respectable.

I loved the Hawaiian settings and the inclusion of the native language. It really made me feel at home. It was fun getting a glimpse of old Hawaii and how things were done back in the day.

This story was very well written and described everything beautifully. It was so easy to become immersed in the story and feel like I was actually there. It painted a beautiful picture of the islands during that time period. I became attached to the characters and didn't want to stop reading. I'm really looking forward to the next story about the Princess and seeing how the underlying mystery plays out! I loved this one and would definitely recommend it!

Bound in Roses was an excellent example of its genre, packed with strong female leads and a great storyline, detailed not to the point of excess I thoroughly enjoyed, and would recommend to others!

Kayne wrote a book that might have easily become a stereotypical portrayal of a spurned lover out for revenge, this was tactfully avoided and instead you understand Luckys desires immediately, she’s not out for revenge but to claim what she feels is rightfully hers, it’s a point that every reader can relate to from some point or other in their life.

Lokelanis’ attempts to retrieve her roses reads as a sub plot, at times this reads as a plot tool, however not to a degree where it interrupts the flow of the book.

One highlight of bound in roses was Kaynes’ depiction of nature, it may seem like a small element of a larger picture but the skill of the writing really helped the book come to life, from when we first meet lokelani in the mountains of her hometown we get a strong feel for her passion towards nature and that first contact really drew me into the book.

Lokelanis relationship with Artemus was a weakness for this book, it swayed between genuine and convenient for furthering the storyline. Together they don’t come across as the team I believe they were intended to be.

In conclusion, Bound in roses is certainly worth a read, Kaynes’ writing has some really strong points that keep you hooked, this book works really well as a part of a series but could also hold it’s ground as a standalone!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

In this fun historical fiction novel, readers travel to early twentieth century Hawai’i and San Francisco, where Lokelani Letwin spends her time. A budding botanist with a stubborn streak, Lokelani ended her engagement, but her ex-fiance stole her unique rose hybrid. Enlisting her future sister-in-law Adele and estranged childhood friend and lawyer Artemus Chang to help, Lokelani has no idea what her roses really mean for her and how they (and Artemus) relate to a family tragedy from her childhood. Exploring a lost system of magic in an annexed Hawai’i, Katherine Kayne’s new historical fiction novel is a tropical escape to a place with magic that Lokelani doesn’t know what to do with. Full of wonderful characters and idyllic locations, this historical fiction novel is an amazing exploration into a new system of magic rooted in Native Hawaiian culture and mythology. Kayne’s characters are the star of this novel, and Lokelani experiences some fascinating challenges and personal growth, especially in her relationships, over the course of this novel. With its historical background of the early twentieth century, Kayne explores some interesting societal and cultural elements which matter to the story. With its excellent characters and incredible magic system, fans of historical fiction and fantasy are sure to enjoy Kayne’s new novel.

Thanks to NetGalley and Passionflower Press for the advance copy.

I love the way the author describes Hawaii and gives deference to the Hawaiian culture. Having grown up in Hawaii parts of this were a trip back home. The details were so vivid and accurate I could see the places. The story continues of the Hawaiian Ladies Riding Society. Tackling women's right to vote, their ancient power, and those who wish evil on the land and those who protect it.

Magical and Exciting!

This is your best so far. I love the history, the use of the Olelo, the romance, the magic of the Gates, and the dark side. What a delightful read. I can't wait for the next one, and to find out what happens to the bad guys!
Mahalo nui loa for a good story.

Bound in Roses is a good fit for readers who enjoy stories about self-discovery, empowerment, and the blending of science and spirituality, set in a historical Hawaiian context with a touch of romance and magic.

Loved it. The stories of how these women come to terms with their "gifts" and the men in their lives are wonderful. Can't wait to read the next one and learn more about the men with dead eyes

🐎🌸 What a fun read! Romance, historical fiction, magic, a gorgeous setting, and horses! That's everything I need.
(I just finished reading. I'll try to share more thoughts in a bit.)