Yoke: The Bound Trilogy Book I

It is rare when an author manages to take a popular topic and twist it into something new, original, and fresh. E.M. Ragland has accomplished just this in the novel YOKE. It transcends YA literature. This allegory blends fiction and nonfiction into one, unforgettable story that will make you look at yourself and the world differently. It is beautifully and delicately written. The characters come alive in this novel of substance. I am anxiously looking forward to the next book in the Bound Series.

As an adult reader who appreciates YA fiction, I can honestly say that the author did a superb job of making me want to keep turning pages. The `angels among us theme was intriguing and had just the right amount of historical reference to maintain an air of believability. By adult fiction standards the dialogue may read a little superficially, but a good story is a good story, and it certainly kept my teen reader--a somewhat reluctant one at that--reading until the wee hours. My only criticism--putting on my Mom Hat here--is that it does flirt with the concept of a jealous God/Creator who may not necessarily represent unconditional love for mankind. The idea is only ancillary to the overall plot, but its there nevertheless. It was also my opinion that one of the more violent moments in the story should have produced a stronger emotional reaction from the main character, Sophie. Instead, the treatment of death came across as somewhat blasé. Overall, a good read capable of capturing the imagination of virtually reader, but especially its intended young adult audience.

E.M. Raglands debut novel is like a beautiful song you cannot get out of your head. The characters, both human and angelic, are so real their images will imprint your soul and their words will echo over and over in your mind. With one foot firmly planted in each of two totally opposing worlds, Raglands protagonist, Sophie, struggles to solve the mystery of her life and the meaning of her existence. Raglands writing is well researched and wonderfully executed. I highly recommend Yoke and anxiously await the next book in the trilogy.

This is a first-of-its-kind read for me. It held my interest, moving at a pace I found easy to keep up with. I found the characters realistic and relateable. The author keeps the reader right on track, describing events and characters in an articulate manner. She shows a lot of insight into her characters, weaving events that spark ongoing interest in the reader.

I am only half way through this book and I am already anxious for the next book in the series to be published. The characters are well written and the story is fascinating!

Great book so far

YOKE is a noteworthy addition to YA literature! This is an intelligent, well written story about love, loss, sacrifice and the lengths we are willing to go to protect the ones we love. Raglands characters are honest and relatable and every page leaves you wanting more. Read YOKE! You will be glad you did!

I was intrigued by the subject matter of YOKE as opposed to the books about vampires and werewolves that pack the shelves of book stores these days. YOKE opened up a whole new world of fascinating beings that I had never heard of before. There is a tremendous love story here and you cant help being terrified that the forces that conspire against them may prove too much to overcome. This is a battle between good and evil of the most epic proportions involving the most unlikely of heroes. Its a page turner that you wont be able to put down.

YOKE is a smart and gripping debut. If you like the TWILIGHT and FALLEN series, you will love this fast-paced read! I found myself obsessing about Raglands modern re-telling of history, prophecy, and divination the way a teenager obsesses about a first love. The apocalyptic division among angels and men is compelling and well-researched, and the romance between Sophie and Joseph is natural and honest. The end of the world never felt so truly imminent. A must-read for women and teens!

I loved this book! I am a big Twilight fan, but I can honestly say I like this story better. Sophie and Joseph are such real characters--they respond to their circumstances in very real ways, despite their circumstances being other-worldly. This book is a page turner. I stayed up all night to finish it. Its a fun, fresh twist on paranormal YA fiction. Cant wait for the next book!