These Twisted Bonds by Lexi Ryan 

This is book two of a duology. Although I really enjoyed book one, I loved book two.

There was significantly more action, intrigue, and romance in the second book than there was in the first.

Can I just say that I am absolutely in love with the MMC... There were moments in this book that genuinely had me grinning like a school-girl while kicking my feet. I love romantic tension and sweet moments. Oh boy did this sweet little treat deliver. The burn was slow and I live for that.

While the series is considered YA, book two had multiple scenes of on page intimacy with vague descriptions of what was happening. It was definitely open door, which IMO, should immediately bump a book to NA even if the scenes are not explicit. I read all ranges of spice, so this was fine for me, but worth noting for those who prefer closed door.

The story was easy to follow and engaging with touches of complexity and twists. This honestly gave me the same general vibes of ACOTAR but with younger target audience.  I was left with a few questions still by the end, but the overall plot was a fun read.

I would definitely recommend this duology in general, but especially for someone chasing ACOTAR vibes but less spicy.