Whether she’s releasing new stories, a much-anticipated sequel, or both, it feels like Ali Hazelwood always has something in the works for romance readers — and that remains true into 2026. The author had a busy 2025, boasting an impressive six releases, including three novels: Deep End, Problematic Summer Romance, and Mate. And although her 2026 schedule isn’t quite as packed, she’s still got more in store for fans of her books. Hazelwood kicked off the year with Two Can Play, an enemies-to-lovers tale set against the backdrop of the video-game industry. And this summer, her audio-only supernatural novella is getting an unexpected sequel.
In a feature from Harper’s BAZAAR, it was revealed that Hazelwood’s paranormal romance, Bound, is getting a follow-up. Titled Unbound, it will be an audio-only release, just like its predecessor. It will be narrated by Tara Fatehi and Dean Miller and is slated to hit Spotify on July 14.
Bound follows a human woman named Vero as she’s “politely” kidnapped by an immortal professor and swept into a world she didn’t know existed. Judging by Hazelwood’s interview with Harper’s BAZAAR, Unbound will flip that story on its head. (And honestly, we’re here for it).
Unbound Story Details & How It’s Connected to Ali Hazelwood’s Bound
Like most romance continuations, Unbound will follow a supporting character from Bound. Specifically, we’ll see Viktor’s maker, Lilit, navigating a relationship with a human ER doctor. He starts out unaware of her nature, an intentional choice on her part. However, it sounds like both will be thrust into sudden danger, with her secrets threatening to spill out into the open.
It’s a compelling setup, and it helps that Lilit’s character promises a flashy and fun time. As for the plot inversion of book one, Hazelwood told Harper’s BAZAAR that was a purposeful choice:
“Bound is from the point of view of the human learning about these immortal worlds, and I really wanted the option of writing the switch of that — Unbound is from the point of view of the immortal who has to explain this really weird world to a human.”
It sounds like Unbound will prove just as gripping as Bound, and perhaps even more so. And it gives Hazelwood’s fans something new to look forward to while they await whatever she’s cooking up next.
Are you excited for Ali Hazelwood’s newly announced sequel? Check back on Backtalk Books for more updates about the author’s books and other major releases!
