The thing about being a PI? You learn to spot trouble a mile away. And Caleb Craven… he’s trouble in a five-thousand-dollar suit.
People say I’ve got a gift for finding what doesn’t want to be found—secrets, lies, the things better left buried. Years in this business taught me one everyone has an angle. And it’s usually about the cash. I figured Craven Industries would be just another corporate gig. Follow the money. Find the dirt. Get paid. Then he walked into my life. Billionaire. Business mogul. Walking enigma. The kind of man whose steel-sharp gaze should’ve sent me running—but instead, it makes me want to play with fire.
Big mistake.
Something at Craven Industries doesn’t add up. The kind of something that gets people killed. My gut says walk away, but I’ve never resisted a mystery—and Caleb Craven might be the deadliest one I’ve ever met. The way he watches me sets my skin on fire when it should be raising alarms. I’ve tailed enough predators to know when I’m being hunted. But I’m used to being the shadow, not the prey. Except shadows don’t leave fingerprints, and whatever’s hidden in his corporate vault has mine all over it—literally. The impossible part? I’ve never been there before.
Now, the sharks are circling as something ancient stirs in the city’s underbelly. I’m caught in the center of it all—and Caleb might be my only shot at survival. Or the beautiful blunder that finally breaks me. Because the fire between us threatens to blaze through every defense I’ve ever built. And in my line of work, letting your guard down is how you get killed.
But I’m learning the truth about fire… It either consumes you. Or you become the inferno.
FATED BY FIRE is the first book in the steamy DRAGONBLOOD DYNASTY series, perfect for fans of Nalini Singh and Ilona Andrews. This paranormal romance features a protective dragon shifter guarding ancient secrets, a tenacious PI searching for answers about her past, and a forbidden passion that could save their world—or burn it all down.
Fated by Fire contains scenes written for mature audiences only.
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.
Fated by Fire is an interesting start to a new series, and there’s definitely a lot here to enjoy — dragons, danger, mystery, and a PI who refuses to back down even when she really should. The setup is cool, the premise has bite, and the chemistry between the leads sparks right away.
That said, for me this landed in the 3 to 3.5‑star range. I liked it, but I wanted more depth — more world‑building, more emotional layers, more time to really sink into the characters beyond the heat and the action. The story moves fast, which keeps things fun, but sometimes I felt like it skimmed over moments that could’ve hit harder with a little more detail.
Still, the vibe is solid. The main character’s voice is sharp and stubborn in a way I enjoyed, and Caleb has that broody‑mysterious energy that works well in a paranormal romance. The whole “something ancient is waking up” angle adds a nice edge without giving too much away.
Overall, it’s a promising start with a cool concept — I just found myself wishing it dug a little deeper. If you like urban fantasy with danger, secrets, and a heavy dose of heat, this one’s worth checking out, and I’m curious to see where the series goes next.
I pushed myself to finish this one, even when I knew it was going to be a dud. I couldn't read halfway through a book and decided to DNF it then. I'm too anal for that shit. You're already that far ahead, so, I skimmed the rest of it. And honestly, it didn't get better for me.
I couldn't even tell you what happened in this one.
Elena was supposedly a PI, but she had 0 ethical boundaries, self preservation (physical OR social), or integrity. She was theoretically 28 years old and not questioning the motives of mysterious and untraceable corporate entities offering large sums of money? With a bestie who was a conspiracy theorist?
And the hero was 325 years old and thinks pushing the woman linked to the powerful artefact that his family has been protecting for generations away because she is a distraction instead of doing enough research to figure out what is happening makes me wonder how he had enough braincells available to operate the elevator down to the vault.
🔥Fated by fire, BE Brouillard 260 pagini (Dragonbllod Dynasty, #1)
🔥Posibile spoilere! 🔥Elena Ross este investigator privat și primește o ofertă de nerefuzat, care pe lângă faptul ca îi va rezolva o parte din problemele financiare, îi va deschide calea de a cerceta trecutul mamei sale (care este dispărută de 20 de ani, iar în toat acest timp, Elena a sperat ca o va regăsi). Ea trebuie să se angajeze la Craven Industries și să cerceteze tot ce se întâmplă în companie și să trimită rapoarte detaliate celui care i-a făcut oferta de muncă. 🔥Deși totul părea simplu, totul se complica când îl întâlnește pe Caleb Craven, cel care este în fruntea companiei și cel de care se simte foarte atrasă, deși încerca să stea cât mai departe de el și de problemele pe care el le aduce în viața Elene, deoarece nimic nu este simplu în jurul unui bărbat precum Caleb, care emană putere prin toți porii. 🔥Caleb este un bărbat dur, serios, mereu la muncă și mereu gata să își protejeze oamenii, dar din clipă în care o întâlnește pe Elena, se simte legat de ea și simte ca viața lui se va schimba radical, deoarece Elena nu este o simplă detectivă, ci este descendenta unei familii străvechi de vrăjitoare și care este legată din vremuri de mult apuse de familia lui Caleb, care la rândul lui nu este un simplu om de afaceri ci este conducătorul unui clan de dragoni. 🔥Cu cat află mai multe, cu atât Elena este și mai bulversată: de secretele ascunse de mama sa, de moștenirea sa, de puterea pe care o are asupra relicvei Heartstone - relicva ce poate distruge dinastia dragonilor, de dușmani care vor puterea ei, dar mai ales este bulversată de legătura ce apare între ea și Caleb, legătura care va fi cheia în rezolvarea misterelor ce înconjoară povestea magică și plină de putere a clanului dragonilor. 🔥Ce semnifică legătura care apare între Caleb si Elena? Ce putere deține Elene? Cine îl trădează pe Caleb și de ce? Ce secrete ascunde trecutul Elenei și de cine sau de ce a protejat-o mama sa? Cine pe cine ajută și cine pe cine încurca? Cine este Mara? Va reuși Caleb să o protejeze pe Elena? Va reuși Elena să se integreze în lumea lui Caleb? Răspunsurile le veți afla voi. 🔥Romanul l-am descoperit căutând o carte cu foc pe coperta și tare mi-a plăcut. Autoarea a creat o lume magică, dar cumva ancorată în zilele noastre, cu două personaje puternice și luptătoare. Mi-a plăcut relația dintre Caleb si Elena, mi-a plăcut cum acesta a făcut totul pentru a o proteja și pentru a o integra în clan, mi-a plăcut cum Elena a acceptat tot ce vine o dată cu dezvăluirea puterii ei și cum l-a ales mereu pe Caleb, indiferent cum s-au prezentat faptele, mereu l-a ales pe el. Dacă vă plac poveștile cu dragoni, acest început de serie este alegerea perfectă, iar eu voi citi următorul volum, deoarece sunt tare curioasă de povestea lui Dorian și a lui Juno.
Fated by Fire was a very predictable read with minimal character development. The pacing felt way too rushed, with important moments either glossed over or skipped entirely. I was especially frustrated by how the heroine demanded complete honesty from the male lead — while lying about her own identity without much guilt or consequence.
One of the biggest letdowns was the brother’s betrayal. What could’ve been a powerful, emotional turning point was handled with a bland exchange like, “How can I trust you now?” followed by “Trust me,” and that was it. No fallout, no depth, no impact.
By 30%, I found myself skimming through the rest, hoping it would pick up — but it never really did. Definitely not a book I’d revisit, though it had potential with the dragons and world-building.
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a snarky PI with a dragon-sized chip on her shoulder collided with a billionaire shifter who oozes danger and designer cologne—wonder no more. Fated by Fire delivers that exact chaos, and I devoured it like a dragon hoarding plot twists. Our heroine? Sharp-tongued, suspicious, and allergic to nonsense. The hero? Broody, secretive, and probably owns more cufflinks than emotional coping mechanisms. Together, they spark like flint and gasoline, and the mystery they unravel is just as fiery. There’s corporate intrigue, supernatural politics, and a vault that may or may not be the magical equivalent of Pandora’s box. Also: dragons. Actual dragons. And one very inconvenient fated bond that neither of them asked for but both are clearly doomed by. B.E. Brouillard knows how to pace a story—fast enough to binge, twisty enough to keep you guessing, and steamy enough to fog up your Kindle. If you like your fantasy romance with bite, banter, and a heroine who doesn’t wait around to be rescued, this one’s for you. Final thoughts: I came for the dragon. I stayed for the sass. Book 2 better bring snacks, because I’m not leaving this series anytime soon.
This is a very entertaining read, great characters and a plot that holds you riveted to the end He had always known that he had an aptitude that allowed him to discover secrets that others would prefer to keep well hidden and Caleb Craven is a typical example of the type of individual he hated the most and he is determined to discover what skeletons he has buried. The more that Craven Industries are looked into the more times I feel that there is more happening than appears and quite possibly the answers are in the vault and as certain as I am about these facts I am certain that there is far more going on than I could ever have imagined. I now seem that Caleb may actually be the only person that can keep the head above water and the chemistry that is so hot and heavy between the two of them is simply riding him hard and if you do not find this book impossible to put down until you reach the end and are left waiting to read the next book in the series then I will be most surprised. I cannot wait for the next book to ready for reading….. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
Elena is drawn into a hidden world full of secrets when she takes a new contract as a private investigator. She has no idea of the chaos that her presence at Craven Industries will unleash nor the intense feelings and connection that she experiences with Caleb Craven, CEO of the company. It seems that ancient forces are pulling puppet-strings for both Elena and Caleb and they will either set the world on fire together or crash and burn. This story is well written with no spelling or grammar errors which is a big tick for me. Even though it is a Fantasy story, the characters are believable and you feel invested in them as long buried secrets are revealed. I anxiously await the release of book 2 in this series which revolves around Dorian who is Caleb’s twin brother. The evil that surrounded Elena and Caleb is still lurking and will no doubt play a major role in the series as it continues. I received an ARC for this book - this is my true and honest opinion.
This is a new series and what a start it is. Elena is a PI who gets offered a large sum of money that will clear all of her very pressing financial problems. It seems simple as she has to infiltrate Craven Industries and route around looking for information that might be of interest to her new clients. Caleb Craven is inexplicably drawn to Elena and is suspicious of why she is working for his company but soon finds himself unable to keep away from her. Elena is equally attracted to him but both are surprised by the strong attraction that is much more than either would have expected. The truth is peeled back layer by layer and the true identities of her employers plus the other hidden threats are revealed as the storyline unfolds. A brilliant start which has some excellent threads running through it which will no doubt be explored in future books. I absolutely loved this and the dragons were so believable. I can’t wait for the next one
I haven't read a good shifter series in ages, I have allowed myself to get sidetracked by romantasy ones, instead, & they tend to be Fae-heavy, in the main! So I went back to one of my favourite authors & lo & behold, I've got the perfect shifter saga.
All is not well amongst the dragons, with rival factions vying to shape the future of their kind. Central to it all is the Heartstone, mired in history & myth. Dragons appear to have "mislaid" the bloodline of witches who could tap into its power.
This first book sets the scene for the battle lines that will be drawn & most of the players therein. It's a very cool start, with villains you'll love to boo hiss at! A bonded couple who must learn the extent of their power before it's too late. A mystery woman whose role is yet to be revealed. All in all, a recipe for a stirring saga. Can't wait, so I'm off to get the next book.
After wolves and vampires, in this new series Brouillard takes us into the world of dragons. How can you explain your immense wealth and your instinct to hoarde riches if you are a dragon trying to adapt to modern life? simple: you conquer the corporate world. Craven is the top of the top in the corporate world and Caleb is a corporate shark. Elena can’t believe her luck when she’s contacted by an anonymous client, offered a ton of money and sent there as an undercover agent … to find what it’s not clear but when she discovers that there’s a super-guarded vault underneath the building she’s not ready for the kind of secrets it holds. Dragons, witches, ancient oaths, family legacies and mating bonds… you might even forget to breathe. As usual with this author, book two can’t come soon enough ( it will be about Caleb’s brother )
Elena is taken by… to a remote cabin. They flew there. Conveniently there is a car waiting at a cabin rarely used and no dead battery. Her Jeep left behind wherever she’d gone (outskirts of city), then at the cabin she argues with… and gets in her Jeep and drives off. Then this phrase just a couple of chapters earlier - repeats: “Malakai’s access codes have been used again,” Dorian adds. “Even though we tried to block them.” Luke mutters. “He must have inside help.”” And despite everything- anger, deception, betrayal there’s the typical sex scenes followed by more anger and betrayal… And so it goes. I suspect there is more than a mole in their stories; they need a proofreader and
I enjoyed this story—I gave it a 3 rating because it was just shallow in the telling. I love dragon stories, but there wasn’t enough back story in this book. No depth to this. The dragon factions clearly have a lot of history. I don’t understand why the author decided to leave it out, because as a reader, I was just confused.
I guess the history will be explored in future books. But seriously, I’m not sure I care enough about these characters to continue with the series. This is my first book by BE Brouillard. Frankly, I’m not impressed.
Second read. I don’t know why I didn’t review it the first time I read it. 🤷🏼♀️ anyways. I love this series. I’m a huge fantasy romance lover and it’s nice to read something other than wolf shifter or fae. This series has a new FMC and MMC in each book with is my favorite kind of series. In this book you have Elena and Caleb and they are so cute together. He’s the clan leader and she is a descendent of a very important witch. This book has it all. Fated mate, witches and dragon shifters. Definitely add it to your TBR if you looking for an easy read that will keep your attention.
Boring... Very little character development, no excitement.
This book was pretty boring, unfortunately. Couldn't connect with the characters, very little character development, really no romance either. I expected more of an alpha dragon male character, but he turned out to be just a guy in a suit bogged down in corporate work. The female character was also boring. Certain pieces of the storyline weren't explained very well, there were gaps and things that seemed to be out of order.
I don't have enough interest in the story to continue with the series.
Not realized fully.book had many good parts and ideas. Disappointed by the main characters. Caleb contradicted himself many times. Worst was saying they could not harm and had to protect clan of his future mate. But he failed many times, walking away. Her character and choices were immature and not realistic.then there was her so called friend. Who started off great but betrayed her. Will not read other book even though I was more intrigued by changing of his brother because not hopeful that next books would not be like this.
Fated by Fire opens the Dragonblood Dynasty series with a fun mix of danger, magic, and slow‑building trust between Caleb and Elena. He’s a controlled, quietly intense dragon CEO, and she’s a sharp PI who doesn’t back down from anything. Their story moves with good momentum, and the supporting cast adds warmth, especially Elena’s best friend and Caleb’s brother. Cindy Kay and Jeremy Gardner’s dual narration keeps the tension and emotion steady in a way that suits the characters well.
Huge thanks to Tantor Media and BE Brouillard for the audiobook review copy!
This is an excellent start to the series. It starts when Elena goes undercover at Caleb’s company. This is a great tale filled with intrigue, action, steam and desperation. Elena is stubborn and determined whilst Caleb refuses to change. Their chemistry sizzles and they cannot but help fan the flames of their romance. There is much left to uncover in the series arc and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
A fantastic start to a new series! I couldn’t put this book down! From beginning to end this had me on the edge of my seat with the mystery, suspense, secrets, and intrigue! A wonderful storyline! So many great characters that the author brings to life. A very enjoyable read that I very highly recommend! Can’t wait for Dorian and Juno’s story! This is my honest opinion of this complimentary copy of this book
What a great start to a new series. I don’t normally like the PI / Journalist / investigating the hero trope, as I like my heroines completely innocent and betrayal to come from the hero (I don’t know why) but it wasn’t a huge element to their actual story and was moved on from pretty quickly. I love a tall brooding hero so Caleb was wonderful and that epilogue definitely has me intrigued with what’s coming next for Dorian. I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Older twin dragon, Caleb discovers a corporate spy, Elena, in his organization. But he soon realizes she's more important than he thought. She's not only his true mate but also of a clan of witches his dragon clan owes an ancient debt.
Cons- Caleb doesn't throw Elena out when he finds out she's snooping in a restricted area, and later deceives him; and who is Sloan? We need more. This story stretches our beliefs. 3.5 stars.
This was honestly a book that was just in my Kindle unlimited feed. I decided to take a chance with it since I’ve been on a kick for dragons. The book read very easily, had minimal details. The character development was so so, but for some reason, it has just become a guilty pleasure to read through it. The story arc was one that I liked, and the author worked things out well and has really set up a stage for a whole series of stories.
Adult content, reader discretion advised. Elena and Caleb meet and fight. Ha! You thought I was going to say fell in love. Elena was committing corporate espionage and Caleb, the CEO caught her. Elena is a witch. Caleb is a dragon. They are destined for each other. If they can get out of their own way. Questions left unanswered: Did Elena's mother die? Where is the missing shard? How is Juno reincarnation happening if the mystery woman is correct?
I enjoy reading this author - easy reading but well written with good editing, something that seems to be lacking in some authors these days. Dropped 1 star as I struggled to understand exactly what the heartstone was. I don't think it was particularly made clear.
I enjoyed Elena fire, she never backed down didnt know how.... though she got on the syndicates radar she still fought back. Caleb is fighting to protect his clan, in an era some of the clan refuse to try to hide in, he sees the danger in outting what they are, while trying to protect the clan treasure.
The story certainly hooked my attention, esp..the part about Elena missing mother
I finished it, so I’ll give two stars…and it’s not awful. The pacing is a bit insane and gives you whiplash. And everything turns into a kiss - an argument, a misunderstanding, an abduction, an attack on the city. It’s ridiculous and just as much fantasy as the dragons. It popped up on Kindle Unlimited and I was curious, but I think I’ll see myself out after the first book. Cheers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
A struggling private investigator, grieving her mother, with a best friend on the trail of Aliens and the yeti. Elena's life changes with a new assignment. Her life is in danger but the quest to find her mother overrides rational thought. But she does have ally. But will her best friend believe the truth after all of her theories.
She was too young to know but has never given up hope that her mother was still alive. Her plea for help finds on a path like her mother but she finds her legacy and mate. She has to embrace both to discover who she is and her role in a dragons world. I am ready for the next book!
I love this book! BE Brouillard makes you feel like you are there living it with the characters. Dragons are my favorite anyway but this is quite the story and I can't wait to read Dorian's!
Easy, fluffy read. The only selling point was dragons. I found the character development to be severely lacking and the story line to be trite. There’s no real substance to the story and it felt very forced.