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Fated

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Torn apart by History
Bound for Eternity

A historical paranormal romance with sweeping consequences, “Fated” is sure to thrill.

Set in ancient Rome, you will find yourself immersed in the culture, drawn to the intrigue and yearning for the romance.

289 pages, Paperback

First published May 13, 2011

74 people are currently reading
716 people want to read

About the author

Carolyn McCray

136 books336 followers
This is a pen name of Goodreads author Cristyn West.

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5 stars
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4 stars
153 (31%)
3 stars
131 (26%)
2 stars
50 (10%)
1 star
32 (6%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for Tracy Riva.
294 reviews8 followers
July 6, 2011
Fated
By Carolyn McCray
Copyright 2010 by Carolyn McCray
An Off Our Meds Project, published by arrangement with the author
ASIN B0050VRK20 $2.99

Fated by Carolyn McCray was a wonderful excursion into the “what if” realms of history. I loved it. It was interesting, it was passionate and it painted a character from history – a much maligned character I must add – in a light that made him human, even if from the story’s point of view he was so much more.

I loved the character of Brutus as written by McCray, a just man who believed in freedom and the individual’s right to determine his or her own path. I liked the fact that Julius Caesar was painted as a man rather than as a martyr, both his good points and his bad points were touched upon. I found the arrogance of Marc Antony rang true, whether that was in fact his personality or not, McCray convincingly made it so. Most of all I loved the character of Syra, proud, strong and more than a match for any man.

I liked the premise that there are people who are more than human who are called upon at key times in humanity’s quest for knowledge and growth to shape events in such a way that mankind benefits from them in the long run. I ached for the characters where their destinies could not be changed and they had to squarely take responsibility for actions they were called upon to take.

Through the pages of her novel McCray made both history and its major players more interesting and understandable to the average reader. It made me want to head for the non-fiction section of my local library and find out more about Julius Caesar and Brutus, and perhaps gain a glimmer of what made Brutus a partner in what is undeniably one of the most famous assassinations in recorded history.

McCray caught me up in her story, stimulated my mind and my senses with characters and scenes so vivid they will be etched upon the canvas of my imagination for some time to come. Once I started reading Fated I was loathe to put it down even to sleep at night and upon rising I returned to it as soon as possible on the new day, anxious to see what lie ahead for the characters so interestingly and intricately woven together into a rich tapestry by McCray. I highly recommend Fated.
Profile Image for Rania Melhem.
78 reviews10 followers
July 26, 2012
This has got to be the most ridiculous book I have ever read. Mostly for the plethora of basic historical mistakes that could have been checked with a 5 minutes google search.
Ms McCray has the citizens of Republican Rome (BCE) eating tomatoes and potatoes and knowing about chocolate (these items didn't arrive in Europe until the late 16th century) and pasta (it didn't arrive in Italy until Marco Polo returned from China in the late 13th century).
Also, Ms. McCray obviously has no idea about the naming protocol in Rome. Julius wasn't Caesar's first name it was his last name and his daughter was Julia, not his wife.
And why did she feel the need to rename Brutus's wife and mother. They were hardly unknown. His wife was Porcia Catonis and his mother the famous Servillia.
I would not recommend this book to anyone and would give it -5 stars if I could.
Profile Image for Mari Stroud.
Author 4 books69 followers
September 8, 2011
It's Rome in the year 42 CE. Marcus Brutus is a Roman senator. (Yes, he's that Marcus Brutus.) Syrah is a tribeswoman from the area now known as Scotland, taken as a prisoner of war and sold as a slave. The two of them meet, sparks fly, and they are soon drawn into the political intrigue surrounding Julius Caesar's assassination and the realization that they are fated lovers destined to be reincarnated again and again at critical moments throughout history. It's quick and engaging, with a nice aura of mystery surrounding the reincarnation angle. McCray states in her author's notes that she set out with the intent of redeeming or at last layering one of history's major villains, but I honestly would have liked to see a little more bite to Brutus, even if he was being influenced by past-life knowledge. (The recent movie version of Rosemary Sutcliff's The Eagle of the Ninth didn't get a lot of love from critics or moviegoers, but my favorite part was how willing everyone was to let Marcus be a dick, even if he wasn't a historical character on anywhere near the scope of Brutus. Romans were Not Nice People, y'all.) The book also could have used a stronger history editor, especially with regard to Syrah.
231 reviews
January 9, 2012
We went to Italy last year and although I'm only a few chapters into the book, the author's descriptions are beautiful. I love seeing through the readers eye the historical descriptions of Palentine hill and the Forum overlaid with my memories of the modern day ruins.
This story, which takes place in 44 BC, is a drama about two people fated for each other. Syra, a warrior from the north who was captured during the revolts of Spain and brought to Rome to be sold in the slave auctions and Brutus, a high ranking senator and confidant of Julius Caesar. This book had my attention through the whole story. It was really well written, had beautiful descriptions and the drama, intrigue and multiple plots kept it a page turner.
Profile Image for Lea.
55 reviews
March 8, 2012
I have no idea how this ended up on my book list. Perhaps someone thought it was a historical novel I would like, but so far it's a cheap romance novel that insults the intelligence of its historical figures. I can only hope it gets better. On top of an unbelievable story line and characters, the book is poorly edited. Thankfully in the later pages, the author has gotten away from the horrible metaphors. Again, a good editor would have gotten rid of them in the first draft. I'll finish it because it's my first free book from Amazon Prime, but I would not recommend this book to anyone.
Profile Image for Sophia.
Author 5 books399 followers
May 7, 2018
A reincarnation story set against the backdrop of Ancient Rome and the story of Julius Caesar, Mar Antony, Cleopatra, and Brutus. How could I resist?

Fated caught my attention right away with the the historical backdrop, characters, and situation. It is a dual narration between Scottish warrioress and now Roman slave, Syra and Brutus, Roman Senator whose loyalty to Rome and to his friend are tugging him in two different directions by treacherous forces.

I loved the idea of taking a reviled betrayer in history and giving him an alternative story and gives the facts a new spin. The growing love between the Roman Senator and the Scottish slave while they tried to bridge their differences and hatred, and betrayal was captivating for me. I also enjoyed all the intrigue in the larger group of people in Rome.

This might have been a higher rating despite several references that were out of place in Ancient Rome, but then the last third happened. This was a strong story as a historical romance or historical fiction, but the paranormal elements kicked in strong during the last part and just felt tacked on at best, broke up the flow, and were ever so distracting. They could have been entirely left out and nothing would be missing. I love the paranormal genre stories, but this was clearly one that I didn't feel it fit, mostly because the story was powerful without it.

So, I still loved much of the earlier story, but ended up finding the last bit more a disappointment until the end. That end was bittersweet and emotional, but suited this particular story. Great idea to take on one of histories villains and give him a new story. I'm intrigued and would definitely read more of the author's work.
Profile Image for Shelley.
713 reviews49 followers
December 19, 2016
Loved this book. It was a sweet story with a different perspective of events in Rome during the time of Julius Caesar.
Profile Image for Christina .
107 reviews47 followers
July 20, 2024
Read this as part of Yearnings: A Paranormal Romance Box Set.
Profile Image for Myvampfiction.
210 reviews5 followers
November 22, 2011
review by SusanAshlea

*Warning: possible spoilers ahead.*

Torn apart by History, Bound for Eternity

Fated combines three of my favorite things: history, romance and paranormal, and it does so quite well.

This is the story of Syra, a woman taken captive and sold as a slave in the Roman Empire. She is bought by Marcus Brutus, a wealthy Senator in Rome. We all know the story of Brutus…or at least we thought we did. Fated gives us a very different version of events that will have you rooting for Brutus and Syra all the way through to the end.

I’ve always considered myself a history buff, and Ancient Rome has always fascinated me, so I jumped at the chance to read and review this book for the Blog Tour de Troops. The research is impeccable and the character development is second to none.

From the very beginning of the book, the reader is immersed in the world of the Roman Empire. Syra is and always has been disgusted with the excess that is associated with Rome, yet she feels an inexplicable draw to the place. Brutus is weary of the political battles between factions in the Senate and finds himself pulled into a conspiracy he can’t find any way out of. Brutus, accompanied by his faithful servant Horat, finds himself drawn to Syra when he sees her in the slave market and purchases her for his wife. Their chemistry is immediately evident, and thought Brutus is a faithful man, he can’t help but want to be in Syra’s presence as much as possible.

The reader is treated to the inner workings of the Roman Senate, as well as a peek inside of Julius Ceasar’s life. He is unwell and aging, yet his accolades wish him to become King of Rome. Others, such as Brutus know that crowing an ailing man as king will only make the Republic crumble. Eventually, Brutus is charged with the task of finishing off Ceasar in order to save the Republic. Unbeknownst to him, there are other forces at work-the Fates.

Syra and Brutus are The Fated: awakening as different powerful forces in each generation and tasked with setting history on it’s correct course. This time around, they are to make sure Julius is eliminated so the rest of the Republic can unite under a common man and a common goal. Each generation, however, they awaken later and later, and this time they almost missed the Crux-the historical event which keeps each generation marching towards the future that has been laid out for it. This time, the Crux is Julius’ death.

This book is a fascinating look at a different time, and it weaves the supernatural in little by little until all is revealed near the end. I highly recommend this one for anyone who loves history; it will definitely give you a new appreciation for this period in time.

Check out all MVF has to offer at our blog: www.myvampfiction.com
Profile Image for Kit VV.
26 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2011
Carolyn McCray's Fated is a historical paranormal romance with the detailed muchness that has earned her the moniker of "The Next Dan Brown." Fated has engaging characters and pulls you through its pages with a secret that spans centuries.

Synopsis:

Fated takes place in Julius Caesar's Roman Empire, when warrior Syra is transported to Rome to be sold as a slave, By chance, she is bought for the house of Brutus, whom she loathes as a Roman, but is drawn to against her better judgement. She brings the household together, discovers a spy in the house and saves Brutus' life while turning a few Roman head. When she goes to the marketplace, she finds an old crone with artifacts from Syra's homeland, Scotland, which triggers a series of mysterious flashbacks. It also pulls the string in the tapestry that pushes Syra and Brutus closer and closer as the Ides of March approach and Caesar becomes increasingly powerful and mad.

The Best and The Worst:

McCray's characters are beautifully developed. In a historical romance, the author owes the audience a grounding in the history, but needs great characters to hold down the heavily detailed plot. McCray, if you give her a few chapters to ground you, will unveil a Rome rich in color, history, and full of people you will love, hate, and love to hate. Sometimes their intentions don't seem clear and there are dozens of them, filling out a household, a marketplace, the forum and a rebellion, but things happen fast in Fated's Rome.

I read a Beta copy, and I'm hoping all the typographical and grammatical errors, along with a few inconsistencies are cleaned up in the version you buy for your kindle. Also, I am normally not a historical romance type of girl, but if all indie historical romances were this intriguing, I might have to change my mind.

Overall Rating

6/8 sleepless hours for great characters and grounding the reader almost effortlessly in an elaborately constructed Rome.

However, be warned, dear reader. This book may inspire in you a reckless desire for the perfect strappy sandals.
Profile Image for Lynne weir.
238 reviews27 followers
October 4, 2014
I don't quite know what to say about this book. I mean it was good and the plot was interesting and the ending was rather unique. I'm trying very hard to think of a way to talk about this without providing spoilers so I shall keep it basic and not go into detail. Okay I liked the beginning of the book, hearing all about Rome and the slave trade back then and all of that was super interesting and I loved it. I found though that the book did drag quite a bit. I also didn't really feel the chemistry amongst the love interests nor did I really understand the last few chapters. In a way this book frustrated me and confused me at parts and left me feeling a little disappointed. I also wish it had talked a little more about the other characters in the book even if they were just background characters, I would have liked to know what happened with them as, if I'm to be honest I kind of preferred hearing from them at parts than from the main characters themselves. I'm not saying this book is bad, it isn't, it's very interesting and unique and there were plenty of parts in it that I liked. It just wasn't, for me personally, that amazing and I sort of had to drag myself through it which I hate doing with a book.
Profile Image for Lissette.
Author 27 books104 followers
July 18, 2011
When I first opened this book and started reading, I thought the story would center around Caesar and his reign. Man, was I proved wrong! I'm very glad that I was, too.

Seeing Brutus portrayed not only as just a man, full of flaws, capable of loving no matter the cost, but also as one acting on what he thought was right made him more sympathetic. Carolyn molded history in a way that left the reader glued to every page, eager to know more. We were given glimpses of Caesar's weakness, Marc Anthony's arrogance, as well as the power play between the Senate and the Virgin's in the hopes of making Rome something more and better than what it was.

I became engrossed within Carolyn's tale of intrigue and heartache, absolutely loving every moment that unfolded between Syra and Brutus. It also made me want to know more about the Fated. What their purpose was and what roles do they actually take. All in all, I enjoyed the book very much!

Profile Image for Elena Gray.
Author 25 books1,166 followers
May 14, 2011
When betrayal lurks around every corner, can a love as old as time survive?

There is more than one war being waged inside the gates of Rome.

Julius Ceasar wants to be King, but those closest to him will do whatever it takes to stop him. Syra is captured as a slave and taken to the very city she has sworn to destroy. She is plagued by dreams that put her in another place and time. Brutus is a Senator loyal to Caesar, but also loyal to the people. He must choose a side or all that he holds dear will be destroyed. Fate brought Syra and Brutus together, but will Rome tear them apart?

I was hooked from beginning to end! This story has it all. A courageous heroine, a moral hero, action, betrayal, love, and a paranormal twist all wrapped up in a historical setting. Beware you may need some tissues!
Profile Image for Christie.
264 reviews16 followers
May 31, 2013
I was not certain about this book in the beginning. I was afraid this was going to be the first book of Ms. McCray's I didn't like. THEN it all changed very quickly!

I didn't understand the connection till the awakening. I was so wrapped up in trying to figure out how they were connected. I wanted them to figure it out quick and live a long life together. But knowing my history, I knew it wasn't going to happen.

This is fiction folks. It doesn't need to be so tightly wound with historical facts. Let the mind wander and enjoy a excellent woven tale. Thus far, Ms. McCray's writing capabilities has not failed me yet!
Profile Image for Mariya Koleva.
22 reviews
May 4, 2011

The book is full of suspense. It does not let go till nearly the very end. The plot is tense and closely-knit. The political intrigue is very powerful. That, as well as the main characters’ inner moral struggles, was what attracted me most in the book.
As for paranormal, it came as a bit of surprise to me. The romance, on the other hand, was there all the time. Yet, it lacked some of the intensity I know the author is capable of.
As usual, Ms McCray’s style of writing is brilliant and the book is a pleasure to read.
Profile Image for Lauralynn Elliott.
Author 23 books32 followers
August 22, 2011
I normally don't care for historical settings, and the only reason I read this one was because I had enjoyed previous works by Carolyn McCray. This one was about Brutus and Julius Caesar and the events leading up to his assassination. But this book put a completely different twist on the story, and included paranormal elements that made you see the whole thing from a different perspective. I was drawn into this story from page one and there was never a dull moment through the entire book. And the romantic parts were so well done! This is one of my favorites by Carolyn McCray.
Profile Image for Debbie.
95 reviews
March 4, 2012
This is an interesting take on the back story of Brutus--murderer of Julius Caeser. I've read the Shakespeare version of the tale, but this author goes in a completely different direction! you find ourself completely sympathetic to Brutus' situation and his actions. I found it very intriguing and liked the character development. There is a romance in there too--a beautiful Scottish slave girl, of all things! There is also a paranormal element that creeps in when you aren't expecting one, but it works. It was a quick read and I'd recommend it!
Profile Image for Heather.
32 reviews28 followers
October 24, 2015
Loved the book. It was not as fasted paced as the author's other work 30 Pieces of Silver, but it was an intriguing work that I can only categorize as a paranormal romance in historical fiction. I'm a fan of Julius Caesar and ancient Rome and this gave an interesting twist to the story. Loved the romance aspect as well. I was constantly on the edge thinking, "when are they gonna kiss already?" lol. I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a good love story set in historical times with a paranormal twist. Can't wait for the second installment.
Profile Image for Cat.
1,489 reviews14 followers
July 6, 2012
Sadness. This book felt like it dragged on way too long. I just couldn't connect with the characters.

That said, this wasn't a bad book by any means. It was well written, with rich details and very human characters (flaws, strengths, etc). I definitely found the ending of the book to be a bit of a cop-out...(SPOILER ALERT) I didn't like that it was all chalked up to being fated and that these spirits would just spend eternity going through the same things over and over again.
Profile Image for Amy Winkelman.
112 reviews
June 6, 2013
It took me a little longer to get into this book as opposed to her other books ( the Betrayed Series) but once she hooked me it took me all of one day to finish this book. I am not sure what it is about her writing, but I am so glad I found this writer. When you read her books and she describes the places, you feel as if you are actually there. She has helped me add new places in the world I want to visit. I loved the Betrayed Series and I look forward to reading this new series.
Profile Image for Taylor Hale.
33 reviews9 followers
December 28, 2011
I loved this book! I've always been intrigued by the story of Julius Caesar and Brutus and I LOVE history. So to be able to read about Ancient Rome and one of the most ultimate betrayals in history was wonderful. I thought the characters were incredibly well written and I loved the love story that tied in. I can't wait to read more by Carolyn McCray :)
Profile Image for J. Else.
Author 7 books116 followers
April 28, 2016
Besides the fact the author seems to have a fixation on taut nipples, I really, REALLY enjoyed this novel. Loved the idea of "the fated," and I want to read more of them! The star-crossed lovers, the strong characters, the colorful ancient world, I was wow-ed! What potential for an amazing series! Thanks for the historical detail and intrigue. I'm left wanting more!
Profile Image for Vichy.
753 reviews45 followers
February 25, 2012
Brutus' betrayal from an interesting twisted point of view. I liked the book a lot. I've just finished reading it and it gave me all the emotions at the highest level. Although I want to share the book's aftertaste, I won't because I don't want to spoil the image for the ones who haven't read it yet.
Profile Image for Babette.
176 reviews7 followers
April 22, 2013
I'm not a big romance novel reader. But I was interested in the story of Caesar's assassination from Brutus' point-of-view. The historical parts of the story were interesting, even if they skipped around a bit. The romance came late in the game. And adding a last minute supernatural element (hinted at a bit throughout the entire book) took away from the overall storyline. Not her best book.
Profile Image for Vicki Krivak.
254 reviews
October 22, 2012
This book was not at all what I expected but I still really enjoyed
it. There were some historical inaccuries, but I just accepted it
as it was. It was hard for me to get into this book at first. It was
slow going. Finally the story picked up and it was pretty good. I
wasn't real happy about the ending though.
Profile Image for Brandy.
15 reviews
September 28, 2013
This was so good. It starts out a little slow but as a historical romance it has such a wonderful twist. This is the second book of hers that I've read and it's both interesting and frustrating how she gets the main characters together because I never can figure out when or how it's going to happen.
Profile Image for Kbee.
1,532 reviews4 followers
June 14, 2013
It was pretty good even though I don't really like the romans time.
I don't care if it's not historically correct, the story was good.It was bit hard to follow in the beginning but it cleared out in the end. Didn't like the ending but the H&h will be back in the next book.
Profile Image for Florence Witkop.
Author 49 books39 followers
Read
April 19, 2013
I liked it. Didn't think I would but I read it because I like unicorns. It was humorous and a decent read. I thought it went on a bit too long but I suspect that's me because I like stories that stick to the point and nothing but the point.
34 reviews
March 15, 2014
It was an interesting tale. I love the characters, did find that there were areas where it dragged a bit, but enjoyed the writer - love-romance-paranormal story. Would definately read more of her books! Well done!
Author 11 books55 followers
January 3, 2015
I liked this book, a twist on familiar history. Towards the end there was some explicit sex, which I generally try to stay away from. For me it took away from the story, but if you go for that kind of stuff add a star back on. I give it 3 stars. definitely for mature readers. I say adults only.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews

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