Blood Bound

Vampire-Cursed #2

by B.E. Brouillard

I have a secret, and it's running through my veins.
My blood is his lifeline, and I hate him for it.

I wish I had killed Darick Drake. I wish it with all my heart, and yet, he still lives. Not for much longer, if I can help it. I know what he did, and it fuels my hatred even more.

I hate my traitorous body, too, for still wanting him...for craving him as he craves me.
I will fight it with every fiber of my being. I will fight our bond...our curse.

But now, witches are vanishing, vampires are growing desperate, and I'm caught in the middle of a centuries-old war.
Nothing is as it seems. The true villain lurks in the shadows, and I can't tell friend from foe.
Who can I trust when my own blood betrays me?

Trapped between warring factions, I must unlock the power within me or risk losing everything – and everyone – I love. But power comes at a price, and the truth might be more than I can bear.

In a world where blood is currency, and trust is a luxury, how far will I go to save those I love when every step could lead me deeper into darkness?

“Blood Bound” is the second book in Vampire-Cursed, and Part 2 of Rowan and Darick's story. Vampire-Cursed is a series of interlinked paranormal romance stories. If you like vampires, witches, and just a touch of psychic power, you’re going to love “Blood Bound.” HEAs are guaranteed (even if they have to work hard to get there).
Note that this story is written for mature audiences only.

Genres: Paranormal

266 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 30, 2024

About the author

After two decades as a journalist, B.E. Brouillard made the leap to fiction. It was time to create the dark stories that had lurked in her mind for all those years. Tortured souls, flawed lovers, dysfunctional behavior...her characters are not for the faint-hearted. Having said that, many readers will find common ground with the less-than-perfect heroes of these stories. In spite of a mild case of cynicism, Brouillard remains a staunch romantic - Happily-Ever-Afters are guaranteed.

A child of the global village, Ms. Brouillard loves Paris, Africa, sushi, and champagne. When she's not wordsmithing dark debauchery, she spends time with her beautiful men, their German Shepherds, and her pack of killer ponies. Or drinking martinis with friends.

Follow her on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorBrouillard

Reviews

[♡Molly♡ · Rating 1 out of 5]

˙⋆✮Rating✮⋆˙
1/5 Stars

💭 Thoughts-
-ˋˏ✄┈┈This book in a short summary:
Oh my goodness he’s dead whatever will I do!---> He’s alive!--->he’s dead agian—>how ever will I move on—> he’s back once again—> weird happily ever after

[Gabrielle · Rating 1 out of 5]

1 star because Rowan drove me literally insane with her dumbassery and flip flopping!!! How Darick didn't lose it as well or just be done with her bs honestly I will never understand. This book like first one was a mess because of her ridiculous behavior that made me scream at my book while reading yet again!

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vampire‑Cursed #2

B.E. Brouillard clearly woke up and chose violence, angst, and feral chemistry, because this book does not stroll into your life — it kicks the door down, steals your snacks, and then emotionally compromises you.

Rowan is out here trying to survive a supernatural war, a homicidal vampire, and her own traitorous hormones, and honestly? Same, girl. Her blood is basically the world’s most chaotic energy drink, and every creature within a five‑mile radius wants a sip. Meanwhile, Darick Drake is slinking around like the undead embodiment of “I’m toxic but you still want me,” and unfortunately for everyone involved, it works.

The witches are disappearing, the vampires are spiraling, and Rowan is stuck in the middle like the paranormal equivalent of the only sober person at a family reunion. Every time she tries to get answers, someone lies, someone threatens her, or someone tries to kill her — sometimes all three before breakfast.

The bond between Rowan and Darick? Absolutely deranged. It’s the kind of magnetic, infuriating connection that makes you want to throw your Kindle and then immediately pick it back up because you need to know what happens next. Their dynamic is messy, addictive, and hotter than it has any right to be considering how often she fantasizes about stabbing him.

The plot moves fast — like “did someone lace this book with caffeine and witch fire” fast. Secrets drop, alliances crumble, and the real villain is lurking in the shadows like they’re waiting for their dramatic entrance music. By the end, Rowan is unlocking powers she definitely did not order, and the emotional stakes are high enough to require a safety harness.

If you want a paranormal romance that’s dark, twisty, and dripping with tension — but still self‑aware enough to wink at you while ruining your life — Blood Bound delivers. It’s dramatic, it’s dangerous, it’s deliciously unhinged, and I devoured it.

[Cece · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m torn and I didn’t like the Ending

I liked the first book but this one Rowan the main character really annoyed me. Spoilers Ahead: Rowan made stupid decisions this entire book and it was so annoying. She kept cutting people off when they would explain things to her. She kept putting herself in harms way. She herself would self reflect and say this was stupid or I should have listened and then as soon ass another situation arises she would make the same stupid decision or wouldn’t listen. Her magic wasn’t stable and then the author go and makes Darack a weak ass human at the end. I don’t think that romantic I think it’s a death sentence for them both if they are left with Rowan as the protector in their relationship. She only driven by emotions she doesn’t make any logical decisions. Darack was the brain and the brawn in that relationship and now he’s just a weak human with powerful enemies still out there and only Rowan and her unstable magic as protection . The only reason I’m still going to read the next book is because I want to understand the family history between the Blackwood’s and the vampire. But I hated this ending I didn’t think it was romantic I thought they put themselves at risks.

[Jo Kerr · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointing.

One of my dislikes for book 1 was the overuse of miscommunication as a plot device, and the immaturity of Rowan’s character.

Unfortunately book 2 showed no improvement and the lack of communication spreads to every single interaction. If you take a drink everytime a character says ‘it’s complicated’ instead of answering a question you’ll be sloshed pretty quickly. It’s hugely irritating.

Rowan is written like a spoiled, self-centred 16 year-old, instead of a grown ass 26 year-old woman. She talks over people, sulks and throws tantrums when she doesn’t get her way as well as running headlong into danger without a plan.

Rowan has a ‘familiar’ (a squirrel) who doesn’t really do anything… the story would not be any worse for not having it there. Additionally none of the other witches have one, and it’s never explained why.

Then we come to that ending. What I loved about this story idea was the uniqueness of the witch-vampire clans and how Rowan and Darrick broke the enmity to be together, a bit like a supernatural Romeo and Juliet. Their differences made this idea powerful. Then… the author decided to completely turn that dynamic on its head. I don’t want to spoiler this for you so I won’t tell you why, but it’s that above all else that won’t have me reading any further in this series.

A shame - great idea, poorly executed IMHO.
If you loved this book, props to you and I’m sad I can’t join you.

[Vasarė Adomavičienė · Rating 4 out of 5]

Būtų buvusios 3, bet vien dėl pabaigos silpnesnės ir su dideliu avansu 4⭐️ Atrodo nėra ypatinga serija, nu bet kažkaip visai gerai sueina! 🦇🧛🏻‍♀️🧛🏻

[Clare-Louise · Rating 1 out of 5]

It's not often that I root for the MMC to just get rid of the FMC but here we are.....

DNFd at 49%. I just cant handle the constant tantrums by the FMC. You would think she was 6 not 26 years old.
The MMC keeps trying to talk to her and all she does is whine and complain. She talks over her sister and Gran who are just trying to help her.

[Angelica · Rating 2 out of 5]

not the misunderstanding that drives 50% of the book and could be solved if you just sit and listen cliche!!! Rowans character takes a nose dive in the wrong direction. i really did like the first book and had high hopes of a sequel that would make rowan and darick into a kickass power couple that would bridge the vampire and witch world. well nope that most definitely did not and will not happen thanks to that pathetic ending. Rowan acted like a child throughout this book and the romance was hyper focused on attraction rather then truly getting to know the characters. who is Darick Drake? what is his history? how did he become a vampire? Besides Marcus who else is in his clan? 2 whole books and we dont know his vampire history. rowan and darick never have truly meaningful conversations that dont lead to sex. And i love me some spice but theres got to be more than that and constant arguments before two people fall in love. and i get its supposed to be romantic but like hes a shitty leader for literally abandoning his whole clan on the brink of a possible witch and vampire war. Also um like what happened to the whole mind communication? Rowan spends every second blocking that door and its the whole reason i picked up the first book to begin with!! If she could feel his emotions and hear his thoughts why the hell does she still think hes lying and manipulating you!! ugh! so frustrated with this read. This world is very interesting and i love the vamp-witch thing. I want to know more but at the same time the romance was so disappointing i cant see myself picking up the next novel.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a simply wonderful; read, characters written fully and story will hold you attention fully
A simply riveting story that I guarantee you like be like myself at the time that you reach the finish of this story and will find that the characters and the plot have held you totally immersed in all that has occurred.
You will find it almost impossible to put this book down till you have reached the end unless you find yourself completely immersed in the storyline and will find the complex characters and the plot totally immersive and will not want to put it down until you reach the finish and discover the outcome.
I loved the characters Darick and Rowann they have to work through a great deal in a very short time and yet they remain sweet and the love and intrigue along with the mystery keeps the reader guessing at the final outcome.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.

[Jewels · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first book and even stayed up until the wee hours of the morning on a work night. Then I read the second book. For at least 50% if not more of the book all Rohan did was act like a petulant child. She refused to listen to anyone. She didn’t let Darik explain anything. It was so frustrating to read that I actually had to skip forward just to get past it. Not until the very end of the book does she finally except that she has feelings for him. But then we get to the twist. I won’t spoil it, but it’s one of the twists that if it happens in a book, I’m reading I stop reading it immediately. Which I did here. It literally ruins any book or series that I’m reading. What an author decides to do this. This was the first books. I read by this author, and I won’t be reading anymore because if this is her idea of a twist, I don’t trust what will happen in other books. So disappointing.

[Sarah · Rating 1 out of 5]

Fml is so fucking annoying, how she is written ruins the book. All she does is interrupt people when they speak and throw tantrums. You could tell her grass is green and she would breakdown and say it isn't. And the ml is dumb for not telling her shit. Tho its hard when shes interrupting him every single sentence. My brain melted and oozed out of my skull from reading how fucking stupid rowan is, walking her ass into traps. There was no romance or falling in love. It was fighting and fucking and thats it. 0 connection to their relationship. The book would hint at stuff and then would be like ill tell you later. It was annoying they wouldnt be straight with it. The ending doesn't even make sense. The ending was so abrupt and didn't give closure to the main characters or answer whats next. Even tho the next book isn't theirs

[Cara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blood Bound

The second book in the Vampire Cursed series, Blood Bound, continues Rowan and Darick's story. Picking up where the first book finished, Rowan uncovers what she perceives as betrayal from Darick. I found myself a little frustrated with Rowan in this book. She came across quite immature and never let Darick explain, then would get upset because he didn't explain.
I loved Darick's commitment to Rowan and the way he cared for her. He had accepted what they were to each other and was prepared to do whatever it took to ensure her safety.
The plot was fast-paced and descriptive, though at times, I felt as though there wasn't enough. There were too many teasers of things and no explanation. Everything happened rather quickly.
Overall, it was a quick, enjoyable read

[FULVIA BELLINATO · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second and final book in this duet.
Stubborn Rowan doesn’t believe Darick has nothing to do with her sister’s abduction and she fights with at every turn not giving him any chance to explain. Darick can’t disclose what he knows about it because it might put her in danger as sure as he knows their connection is something he’s never experienced in his long life. So when she is kidnapped all bets are off and he is ready to forsake everything to save her.
Rowan’s sister is still missing but this is a story that will be told in another book, out later this year.
Ancient prophecies, talking animals and enchanted talismans, this book has it all.
An unexpected and super original epilogue is what sets this book apart from most of the paranormal ones I’ve read.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really hoping the second book would get better than the first as most do with some series. However, I am disappointed in the way this story went. Things were rushed, and tossed together with questions left unanswered. I like the overall storyline. It has a lot of potential. Without giving away any spoilers here, I would say that I have many many questions as to why things happened and what the background of these things are. The book ended way too fast with so many things left unsaid. I thought, okay, I will get some answers in book 3, and maybe I will. As I started book 3, the story starts back before book 1! Now we are on to another sisters story... where are my answers?? Maybe I am just being impatient, so I will continue to read the series. I am not a quitter.

[Purplegirl76 · Rating 5 out of 5]

After anxiously anticipating the sequel to a first book that left me hanging, I was delighted to discover that "Blood Bound" surpassed all my hopes. I can't recommend this series enough!

The narrative seamlessly picked up where the first book ended, introducing unforeseen plot developments. Despite my initial reservations, I was pleased to realize that Rowan and Darik's saga was far from concluded. The book held my attention with its suspenseful twists and turns, and the conclusion was a truly pleasant surprise! :)

Although this story has concluded, in the upcoming third book, "Blood Caged," we will finally discover the truth about what really happened to Rowan's sister, Mia.

[Katie Wilks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blood Bound by B.E. Brouillard
Overall Score ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat Level 🔥🔥🔥🔥

Genres/Tropes
• Paranormal Romance
• Opposites Attract
• Fated

This is the 2nd in the series and picks up right after that cliffhanger she left us on. And, surprisingly, it started kind of slow for me. About 15% of the way through it picked up and I couldn't put it down. Literally. I finished the rest of the book that day. Rowan is stubborn. And I mean bullheaded. I wanted to knock her upside the head many times throughout the book. She got her crap together by the end of the book and they did get get HEA. ❤

[Lin Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

After that cliffhanger in the first book it was hard to see where this second book would go.
It was an amazing twist and the storyline kept giving right until the end of this one but then there’s an opening for an unexpected book three!
This was great with Rowan battling against the bond with Darick whilst pursuing her own agenda to find her sister. I still have no idea who truly are the bad guys and exactly what is going on but I’m hooked into the plot so I’m in for the whole rise.
I liked the development of the other characters and can’t wait to see where all of this goes in book three.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

After that jaw dropping cliff hanger from book one I couldn’t even imagine what was coming next and I’m glad I didn’t as this was much better. I must say I didn’t like the heroine for a lot of this book, she was so self absorbed and the complaining was beyond annoying and why did she not give him an opportunity to speak, just bulldozed right over him anytime he tried to explain anything!! The hero I loved him!!! I felt sorry for him for most of the book lol I don’t want to say anything more because I don’t want to spoil the story.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[ajscenic · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good conclusion to Rowan and Darick’s story.
I thought that much like the first book, this was compelling.
I got drawn into their world and literally, could-not-put-it-down!
I thought that the story was free-flowing with ups and downs, dilemma’s, tragedy, action, romance and sheer stubbornness. It was brilliant.
This might be the end of Rowan and Darick’s story but, it is nowhere near the end of this series. I cannot wait to find out what happens next!

[Faith Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's all about the prophecy.

The greatest betrayal & the most selfless act of love follow hard on each other's heels. Rowan wakes up to her reality, finally. It's all wheels within wheels; conspiracy theorists would have a field day trying to unpick the threads of this one.

We're only given a glimpse of what the prophecy is all about, the rest is still shrouded in mystery. Bring it on!

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute intriguing story that kept me totally engaged from beginning to end! I loved Rowan and Darick! They really had so much they had to work through but it was so very sweet. Loved the mystery and intrigue! A very well written story that I very much enjoyed! Can’t wait for Mia’s story! Very highly recommend! This is my honest opinion of this complimentary copy of this book

[Trisha · Rating 1 out of 5]

The MFC was tolerable in the first book. In this book she’s so childish, rude, can’t control her anger, and dumb! I tried to get through the book but DNF’d at around 55%. I just couldn’t take her stupidity anymore.

[Petra Miková · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sorry, but Rowan just got seriously dumbed down from the previous book. Even if she was extremely emotional and angry, she is behaving as a reckless child and just doesn't listen. I got annoyed after 100 pages or so and stopped reading.

[Jeanie's Kindle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't fall off the Cliffhanger!

This is a who done it, you never saw coming. You feel foolish because it was so obvious. The bad guy wasn't as bad as you thought. Prince Charming, maybe not. Grams, wise old gal.

[Carina G · Rating 2 out of 5]

didn't finish it yet but i just needed to write down my frustrations.

She regrets not listening to him when he tried to explain but then turns around and does the exact same thing???????? she pisses me off in this book tbh.
She behaves like a teenager.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't wait for the next book

[Cherish Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing, the twist and turns I didn't see coming. This book will have you hooked. The cliffhanger has me so excited for the next book. Great job B.E Brouillard

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.0

I apologize as it may be the mood I’m in but the main female character is TSTL. Do I want to see what happened to Mia? Maybe.

[Witch's Biblioniche · Rating 1 out of 5]

The FMC is more insufferable than a whiny toddler throwing a tantrum jfc

[Lizzy · Rating 2 out of 5]

still don't like the FMC