Bound: A Slow Burn Dystopian Vampire Romance

Elite #1

by Charley Black

Bound by blood, Marked by rebellion, Destined for a love that could save or destroy them.

A forbidden bond. A crumbling city. A choice that could change everything.

Serenity

Becoming an Elite—a blood donor for the Vampyr—was never part of the plan. But with my family’s lives on the line, I had no choice but to step out of hiding and into a world I barely understand. My rare blood has made me a target, and now, I’m bound to Kane—the ruthless, untouchable head of the Vampyr Council.

The rebels want to use me. My family depends on me. And Kane… he’s the only one who can keep me alive—but trusting him? That might be the most dangerous gamble of all.

Kane

I never wanted an Elite. I certainly didn’t need one—especially not Serenity. She’s everything I’ve human, stubborn, and a complication I can’t afford. But from the moment I met her, she turned my world upside down.

Her blood sustains me, but it’s her spirit that leaves me hungry for more. As rebellion threatens to tear the city apart, my focus should be on holding everything together—not on the one woman who’s become my greatest weakness.

She’s more than just a distraction. She’s a risk. One I shouldn’t take.

But I can’t let her go. And if I’m not careful, she might destroy me—or save us all.In a world where blood is currency and love is forbidden, Bound is a spellbinding tale of passion, betrayal, and a bond that could shatter a city—or bring it to its knees.

Fans of dstopyian fantasy, forbidden romance, and slow-burn tension will devour Bound, the first book in The Elite Series.

Genres: Vampires, Dystopia, Vampire Romance, Fantasy, Slow Burn, Paranormal Romance

354 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 25, 2025

About the author

Charley Black is an up-and-coming writer and author who has been creating stories since she was twelve years old. Her early short stories dabbled in different genres, but her passion for romance novels — paranormal romance in particular — always shone through. Charley currently resides in Rhode Island, with her family and works at a local university. Entwined will be the first of three novels set in the Within the Darkness universe.

Reviews

[Joanna Hockly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy. Dystopian vampire setting with handmaids tale vibes. The world building was enjoyable although some sections did get confusing. Has great descriptive writing so allows your mind to build a great picture. However, it is rather predictable with the twists and where the story was heading. There are two more to go and although I didn’t love it, I’ll still read the next two when they’re released.

Lots of tension building and some spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️ rating for that as it really does build.

[Caitlyn Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book! I need this book in my veins. I forgot I was reading a book half the time because of the immersive writing.

[Shawntae · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great first book for the series. There was just enough suspense to leave you wanting more but answering enough questions so you didn't feel too lost at the end. I'm excited to see how this series unfolds!!!!

[Lauren Pattison · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️

So I was very fortunate to have been kindly gifted an arc for this book and I promised myself that I’d give an honest review.

It was tricky to rate this because I loved the whole concept of the book, I just think it could’ve been executed better.

Let me start by saying that this book had SO much potential, the idea of it was intriguing and I was really interested to see where it’d go, the synopsis sounded so good!! But unfortunately I just don’t think it lived up to what I was expecting and just fell kinda flat. Don’t get me wrong I was really enjoying it at the start! It was moving quite quickly and I liked that, up until the elite/patron relationship was actually agreed to and then the pace slows so much and that’s where it lost me a little.

I found it difficult to read at times because the writing style is so simplistic it just reminded me of something you’d find on whattpad back in the day. And the fact that the speech text is so.. impersonal, is it just me or do the characters all speak the same? There’s no differentiating them, the speech doesn’t give way to personality which is a shame.

As for the romance in the story, our spotlight characters are Kane and Serenity. I disagree with the ‘lovers to enemies’ trope because honestly there’s not much of either of those things between the two, I definitely wouldn’t call them lovers and maybe towards the end it hints at an enemies situation but I don’t think it counts when both parties are unaware that the other knows?
Anyway it’s definitely a slow burn, a really slow burn and there isn’t really any build up of tension or chemistry between the two characters, they just have these out the blue moments and you’re like woah well where did that come from?

And that ending? the way it ends feels more like the story just stopped, rather than creating the intensity and anticipation of a cliffhanger.. I was convinced I was missing some pages with how it ended, it was like I was watching an episode and paused it. But then again it definitely did its job because it’s made me want to know what happens next!

Anyway, overall, I did enjoy the premise of the book but I do think it needed more work to fully pull through. It does feel very much like a warm up book, setting everything up for book two and I’m looking forward to seeing where it leads. I have a feeling book 2 is gonna have all the action!

[Chasing Silhouettes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantasy Fiction . Romantasy . Sacrifice for Family . Human/Vampyr Politics . Murders & Rebellion . Dystopian . Forced Proximity . Forbidden Romance . Slow Burn . Vampyr Love . Dramatic Shift . Lovers to Enemies . Internal Struggle . Will They, Won't They .

After the death of her father, Serenity was left to take care of her ailing mother and younger sister. She was out of sustainable options to afford their medications and would not impose on her best friend, Jax. Out of desperation, she embarked upon a dangerous undertaking to become an Elite, knowing that she risked exposing her secret... "Serenity had the type of blood that the vampyr wanted... and craved." (pg 10)

Little did she know that she would be even closer to danger, up close and personal to Kane, one of the most powerful and feared Vamprys in Celearius. He was the head of the Human Vampyr Council. He was "ruthless perfection" (pg 114).

"She could smell his musk and see the faint threads of silver in his dark hair. She could feel the heat radiating off him, enveloping her in an unexpected embrace that caused her heart to beat faster." (pg 31)

Kane had "decades of discipline" (pg 33), but had difficulty retaining his composure and control around Serenity, as she was like a temptation he could not resist, and if he gave in...

Despite the danger, the adjustment to Serenity's new reality, and as her father's past came into harsh light, she still felt drawn to Kane. But internal struggles mounted when the rebellion took an interest in her, and she was unwittingly put in the precarious middle of a conflicting plot between humans and Vamprys.

Will their forbidden love survive?

The plot and their story will continue in the next installment of The Elite Series - Marked.

It was a medium paced read. Some portions seemed repetitive, possibly copy corrections that were accidentally left in. Loved Serenity's preserverance and Kane's gruff care and consideration. The supporting characters had their charm, too. Hope to see some of the loose ends tied up in the next book, as I'm curious to see how it unfolds.

3.8 (~4) 🌟 eARC copy

[Sheree Birchall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I fell into the world so easily, I loved the characters and I loved the story.
This book is set in a dystopian world with Vampyrs and humans. Serenity our beautiful FMC has to make a tough choice to become an elite so she can get medicine for her mother and sister. An elite basically becomes a personal blood bank for a Vampyr, some live a great life but also some are not so lucky. Luckily for Serenity she is placed with Kane due to her ultra rare blood and need for protection. Kane is the head of the human vampyr council, a highly respected and feared Vampyr! I love Kane, he’s a fall first, grumpy-sunshine that is completely distracted by Serenity, his inner turmoil and need to just be with her, taste her and all the good stuff creeps into his mind but there is the rebels to find and take down, he can’t be distracted!
Can I just say…Chapter 32! My heart it was such a moment 🥰
Did I mention I love the characters in this, the supporting characters are so great! Nox is so sassy, Evie is such a sweetheart and I love her relationship with Serenity and Rhy I’m sure him and Nox had a thing going on, I can smell it…i could be reading to much into that but a girls gotta dream haha anyway! this book ended with so much going on and I need to know what happens next! I cannot wait to dive back into this world again 🖤

[V Brown LetsBeRealBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Elite Series begins with Bound, a novel by Charley Black that I devoured voraciously. The narrative unfolds in a dystopian world where peace hangs in the balance. At the heart of the story are Serenity (rare blood type) and Kane (Vampyre), whose lives intersect in complex ways. Serenity's desire was never to join the elite, but her family's desperate circumstances left her with little choice. By volunteering as a donor for a Vampyre, she sought to alleviate her family's financial burdens, particularly in securing essential medication for her mother and sister. Despite her father's passing, his medical expertise continued to influence her decisions. Nevertheless, the family's financial struggles persisted, and their residence in one of the poorest districts limited her options. Thus, she made the difficult decision to become an elite. In this dystopian society, the symbiotic relationship between humans and vampyres is marked by mutual dependence and tension. Bound is a gripping dystopian slow burn vampire romance that explores themes of forbidden love, betrayal, and deception.

[Katherine Tricker · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this first installment of The Elite trilogy. We learn about the world and it's main players and watch a potential relationship between Kane and Serenity begin to emerge. Serenity has a big choice to make as to which side she is on, and I look forward to seeing where this series goes.

I was gifted an ARC of this book in return for my honest review.

[Patricia Osborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so intelligently and cleverly written,I was BOUND to it from the first paragraph,I literally breathed it in,thank you Charley ;the book’s subtlety was so delicate in parts and precise in others,making it impossible to analyse,but I cannot wait for the next one.
When will it be available?

[Lauren · Rating 2 out of 5]

Rating: 2 stars

TROPES
- Forbidden love
- Slow burn romance
- Forced proximity
- Dystopian
- Multiple POVs

REVIEW
This is a romantasy story, which follows Kane and Serenity. Kane is a vampire and not just any vampire, he is the head of the Vampyr Council, and Serenity is a human but a human who's blood is VERY rare and vampires will do just about anything to get hold of her, so she has spent her life in hiding.

They are both living in a world called Celearius, where humans and vampires exist. The line between humans and vampires is extremely fragile, almost treading on thin ice. The way humans and vampires co-exist is from a set of rules, rules that make co-existing easier than it should be.

Part of this was creating THE ELITES, which are a way for humans to live alongside vampires, and help them satisfy their cravings of human blood, which then decreases the death rates of humans. If you want to become an Elite you have to apply and have your blood taken, which then will determine if your blood type is good enough to become one or not. The rarer your blood type, the more likely you are to be selected. If you are selected you must leave everything you have ever known, your loved ones, your family, your job and move in with the vampire that you are assigned. Feeding times are decided which again there are set rules to how much they can feed from an Elite, and there are rules for how you live alongside them.

You get more money which is given to you by credits, and you get to live the way vampires do. If you have family, then they can reap the benefits too. This is where Serenity comes into play. Serenity is a young girl who has been hidden away all of her life, to stop the vampires hunting her down and killing her, because her blood is like gold to them. Her Father when he was alive would do everything in his power to hide Serenity and keep her safe, alongside her mother and her sister. When Serenity's father passed away, all of their lives got turned upside down. Serenity's mother and sister are both sick, which requires them both to need medication and medication costs money, something none of them have a lot of. If Serenity becomes an Elite, this will solve all of their problems.

Serenity signs up and gets accepted. The Vampire she must serve is Kane, the head of the Vampyr Council, one of the oldest of vampires. Serenity moves in with Kane, starts adapting and adjusting to his way of living, his rules and the way they run things. Her mother and sister are happy, they are getting food through regularly, their medicine is being paid for and they are doing great, although they are missing Serenity a lot, this is what is keeping Serenity motivated to keep going with Kane.

As tensions build between the pair of them, it seems the world is falling apart around them. A group of people called The Rebellions are killing elites as a way to cut off the vampires food source. Serenity seems to be in the middle of it all, with secrets being revealed throughout and things being revealed about her Father. Serenity knew that he was involved in some things, but what is revealed seems to be much more deadly than she could of ever anticipated. Now will she get caught in the crossfire? Will she be the link to everything that is going on?

Kane is falling for her, and falling hard. This doesn't come easily to Kane, it is something he finds extremely difficult to do because of his past, I mean the guy is hundreds of years old, so of course he has been through some things. Serenity can't stop thinking about him, the way his hands feel when they are all over her, the feel of his skin on hers. It is a massive will they, won't they?!

The book ends on a cliffhanger to make you wanting more, and wanting to know the answers that you have been burning to know. This sets it up nicely for the next book.

Conclusion
Although this book had SO much potential from start to finish, the fact it gave The Vampire Diaries vibes mixed with a little bit of Twilight, and even a hint of Blade, it just fell extremely flat for me. I wanted to LOVE it, and I did, I loved the potential it had but and here's the thing...

Kane and Serenity
Their romance was so all over the place that it hurt. It was a slow burn, and I get that but how much of a slow burn can a romance be? I seen one of the tropes used that said lovers to enemies, but I don't agree as they weren't ever lovers to begin with. The slow burn was just so hit and miss, the very first encounter they had was so random, and then the ones in between that, there was zero build up. It just happened and in the most random ways. I know this can happen, but I like a tension build, a I shouldn't but my god I want you right now and there wasn't really that, plus the lack of relationship development between them before they got to them places wasn't the best. I couldn't tell you if I loved or hated their relationship, as I wasn't taken on a journey to feel that way, by the end I was like "oh here we go again, just get on with it already.”

Kane
His character was supposed to be the big mighty Kane, oldest vampire, head of the Vampyr council but I didn't get these vibes from him, not one bit. I wouldn't of been scared of Kane if I ever met him, I would simply roll my eyes and walk all over him. The way he was wrote, the way his character was supposed to be but then the way he was actually delivered wasn't the best for me!

The speaking patterns
I felt like I was reading a story from the app 'Episode'. I have no idea if you know what this is, but it is an app where people can create stories, moving characters and dialogue. The writing is usually poor, and very mediocre but that is what it is supposed to be. However in a book like this where there is spice content which isn't very young adult vibes, then I feel the speech needs to be stronger. It didn't flow, it was too spoken out, it didn't feel very believable. The English language can be abbreviated for good reason but that didn't happen in this. The conversations didn't flow, and it felt very young, so when the spice scenes were added in, I felt a little uncomfortable as I was confused what age of the book this was targeted towards. The characters need to work more on their dialogue, and I feel need to be decided of what is supposed to be expected of each character, as with the amount of characters that were involved and the multiple POVs, it was very easy to become lost, confused and the story to stop making sense.

Proof reading/editing
The amount of mistakes in this book from start to finish weren't great. I was proofreading as I went along, and screenshotting all of them to make sure the author knew, because whoever proofread this and edited it, didn't do a very good job for her, which is really sad. An author trusts you with their work, so the least you could do is make sure it is done properly. I understand when I get given ARCs to read that it is not the finalised copy and that is what ARCs are put out into the world for, but the amount of mistakes in this book, from the same paragraphs repeated, to no grammar, to spelling mistakes and words missing, didn't do it for me.

I think the story has SO MUCH potential, as it really could be something special. But it needs so much work, the story and characters need to flow better. It is very all over the place right now, and I hope with the feedback received, people are honest and can help this writer get to her FULL potential.

However I am SO grateful to of been selected to read this writers work, it is only constructive criticism, which everyone needs to improve themselves. A writers work isn't going to be for everyone, that is why I am always very honest in my reviews, ARC copies or not.

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love the world that Charley Black created for Bound, the first book in The Elite Series. I enjoy stories where paranormal creatures coexist with humans. While reading Bound, I continually thought about The Vampire Diaries, True Blood, and The Handmaid's Tale, as it reminded me of each in various ways.

Bound tells the story of Serenity and Kane, a vampire and a human living together. I'm convinced that Serenity wouldn't choose to live with Kane if she could find another way to obtain the medicine her mother and sister needed.

In the world of Bound, blood is regarded as precious as gold in both the vampire and human realms. Serenity’s father kept her hidden from the world her entire life because she possesses a very rare type of blood that both humans and vampires would kill for. However, after her father's death, Serenity decides to join the elite program to earn the credits necessary to purchase medicine for her mother and sister.

Serenity is placed with Kane, the head of the Vampyr council. He is the only one capable of keeping her safe if her rare blood type becomes known. Kane never intended to have an elite in his life, but he can’t seem to say no to Serenity and her blood.

Bound may be a slow-burn romance, but the vampires and this world make it all worthwhile. I would love to see Bound adapted into a TV show. I enjoy shows where vampires and humans coexist in any form. I could watch shows like this repeatedly and never seem to tire of them.

I can’t wait to read more in The Elite Series. I'm eager to dive into the next book, Marked. The world-building is incredibly well done. Bound is one of the best vampire stories I've read.

I highly recommend Bound to all vampire fans! Grab a copy of Bound today!

[Abbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

thank you to charley black for sending me an arc of her book to read and review prior to release

4.5 stars.
I absolutely DEVOURED this book. This has all my favourite tropes: forced proximity, slow burn, forbidden love and I also absolutely love a vampire x human romance.

Serenity is a human and becomes an Elite (a blood donor) for the head of the vampyr council - Kane. This is so she can provide money, food and medicine back home for her mum and sister.

Serenity has a rare blood type which makes her a target for vampyrs because it’s believed to expand their lives and awaken new powers. Kane’s job is to protect Serenity but this comes at a cost as Kane finds himself unable to resist not only her blood, but her.

Serenity and Kane are both drawn to each other immediately and my only critique is that I wish the slow burn was even slower. I feel they both gave in to each other a little too quickly (before 50% of the book) and would have liked to have had more yearning 🤭

Throughout the book there is also an ongoing rebellion where the humans want to kill the vampyrs and Serenity is the key for this rebellion to be successful but what will she choose?

At the end of the book, Serenity is torn between loyalty to her kind or choosing love. The book ended perfectly on a cliffhanger that has left me wanting to read more. I cannot wait for the rest of this series!!

[Jasmine · Rating 2 out of 5]

Firstly thank you for the ARC but Bound was honestly a struggle. The potential was there but the story was dragged down by unnecessary filler, shallow characters, and a foot fetish.

The concept? Interesting. The execution? Ass. The random side character povs added zero value and I found myself skimming through just to get to something worth reading.

There was a lot of inner monologuing about how obsessed they were with each other but barely any meaningful interaction. How am I supposed to believe in this grand romance when they hardly talk? It was all vibes and no substance, more like a fleeting crush than an actual connection. Kane was more interested in the smell of her blood than anything else.

Serenity had the personality of a damp napkin. No depth, no common sense, just vibes. Running into the streets of a vampyr neighborhood alone when you know your blood is basically a VIP pass for everyone in town? Girl be serious.

I wanted tension, intrigue, something but nvm💀

[NADINE · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read from the moment I started I didn’t want to put the book down. A world you fall easily into, the characters are easy to follow and well not long into this and you already start falling in love with them.
Based in a dystopian world filled with vampyr and humans who have the choice to enter an elite program. It’s a story of little twists and turns with she needs him but he needs her in ways he never knew, will they ? Won’t they?
I honestly cannot wait to see what’s in store.
(Honestly run don’t walk you need this in your life)

[Brita Mackay · Rating 4 out of 5]

They were destined for a love that could either save them or destroy them. More than that, though, they were bound by blood and marked by the rebellion.

They have choices ahead of them that will, or at least could change everything they know, and for everyone they know and care about. The bond they share is one that has been forbidden. And what's worse, they live in a city that is crumbling around them.

Serenity's life has been turned upside down. She never wanted to be a part of the Elite, a blood pack, aka donor, for the Vampyr. But, she really didn't have much of a choice when the Vampyr put her families life on the line. It forced her to step out of the shadows where she'd been hiding and into the world she hardly knows anymore. The rare blood running through her veins makes her an instant target. And now that she's out of the shadows, she suddenly finds herself bound to Kane, a ruthless and untouchable Vampyr, who also happens to be the head of the Vampyr Council.

Not only do the Vampyr's want to control her, but the rebles want to use her. Her family is depending on her to keep them safe. Kane is the only one with the ability to keep her alive, but can she trust him? In trusting Kane, Serenity might be taking her own life in her hands and gambling it all away.

An Elite was never in Kane's plan's and he certainly never needed one, and an Elite like Serenity, nope, that was not in his plan. Stubborn, human, intelligent, quick, everything he'd avoided, and a complication that he just couldn't afford. And from that first moment he'd met her, it seemed like it was her mission to make his life miserable, and suddenly, his life was flipping upside down.

There's something about her, though, that leaves him weak kneed. Her fiery spirit leaves him lusting and wanting more, and the blood that flows through her veins sustains him, keeping him alive.

Serenity is so much more than just some minor distraction, even if she doesn't yet know it. Serenity is a huge risk. She is a risk that he shouldn't take.

Serenity could save or destroy us all if he's not careful. But, he just can't let her go, willingly or unwillingly.


Tropes: Fantasy Fiction, Romantasy, Sacrifice for Family, Human/Vampyr Politics, Murder & Rebellion, Dystopian, Forced Proximity, Forbidden Romance, Slow Burn, Vampyr Love, Dramatic Shift, Lovers to Enemies, Internal Struggle, Will They/Won't They?.

Serenity had to protect her younger sister and mother after her father passed away. It didn't help that her mother was ill and that complicated things for her. “Serenity had the type of blood that the vampyr wanted... and craved.” (pg 10) She was desperate, she couldn't afford her mothers medication and she couldn't expect her best friend Jax to help her all the time. Serenity knew that her blood was what the vampyr wanted more than any, so she set out to become an elite. But, it came with a risk. It could expose her deepest darkest secret.

Upon becoming an elite, she was assigned to Kane. Not what she expected, Kane was one of the most powerful and feared vampyrs in Celearius. He was the one in charge of the Human Vampyr Council.

With “decades of discipline” (pg 33), Kane struggled to retain his control and composure when he was around Serenity. She was his temptation, he was struggling to keep her at arms length and he didn't like what would happen if he finally gave in...

Slowly, her father's past came into the harsh light of day, but Serenity, despite all the danger Serenity couldn't help but feel drawn to Kane. Then the rebellion came knocking on Serenity's door, taking an interest in who she was, who she was bonded to, and how she could help their cause, and this caused even more internal struggles for Serenity Now she was put in the
middle of a conflict, where a plot was brewing between the human rebellion and the vampyrs.

Is this new love that is forbidden on varying levels able to survive?

We will see the story and the character arcs continue in the next installment of the Elite Series – Marked. And I can't wait to see what happens next.

[Andreanne Parcel · Rating 4 out of 5]

English below :
Bound --> un livre qui nous mène dans un univers où les vampires vivent en "harmonie" avec les humains. Les humains peuvent volontairement devenir des "élites" en échange d'argent/de protection. Chaque élite est associé à un vampire et il est sa banque personnelle de sang. Notre héroïne est sans le sous et avec une famille ayant des problèmes de santé se retrouve à postuler pour être une élite. En plus d'avoir un type de sang extrêmement rare qui est addictif pour les vampires, Serenity se retrouve à être associée à Kane, le vampire à la tête du clan.

On aime bound pour :

- L'histoire à plusieurs points de vue. On s'attache rapidement à Kane et ses associés /ses amis. Mon préféré est Nox :)

- La tension (BEAUCOUP de tension!) entre Serenity et Kane qui est palpable!

- L'univers dystopique, l'intrigue, les complots et les trahisons !

Le petit moins :

- Les monologues intérieurs sont parfois redondants. Je sais que cela donne de l'emphase aux émotions et comment se sentent les personnages, mais j'ai parfois eu l'impression de relire 4x la même phrase.

Une très bonne lecture rapide et addictive!

Je lirai la suite avec plaisir! Marked --> Janvier 2026 ! Notez le à vos calendriers!


English :
Bound --> a book that takes us into a world where vampires live in "harmony" with humans. Humans can voluntarily become "elites" in exchange for money or protection. Each elite is associated with a vampire, who serves as their personal blood bank. Our heroine, penniless and with a family struggling with health issues, finds herself applying to become an elite. In addition to having an extremely rare blood type that is addictive to vampires, Serenity is paired with Kane, the vampire leader of the clan.

We love Bound for:

- The story told from multiple points of view. We quickly become attached to Kane and his associates/friends. My favorite is Nox :)

- The palpable tension (A LOT of tension!) between Serenity and Kane!

- The dystopian world, the plot, the conspiracies, and the betrayals!

The only downside:

- The internal monologues are sometimes repetitive. I know this emphasizes the emotions and how the characters feel, but sometimes I felt like I was reading the same sentence four times.

A very good, quick, and addictive read!

I'll gladly read the sequel! Marked --> January 2026! Mark your calendars!

[Mandy Britt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grumpy, Fall-First Vampyr: Dive into the Slow-Burn Tension of Bound

Bound (The Elite Series, Book 1) by Charley Black is a great read that I couldn't put down! This book is a fantastic, immersive first installment in a complex dystopian world where Vampyrs and humans coexist uneasily. The world-building is incredibly well done, and I fell into the setting effortlessly.
​The story centers on Serenity, a human who makes the difficult choice to join the Elite program—essentially becoming a personal blood bank for a Vampyr—to obtain critical medicine for her mother and sister. Serenity is placed with Kane, the powerful and highly feared head of the Vampyr council, not only because she needs his protection, but because she possesses a rare type of blood that both species are desperate for.
​This story of little twists and turns is built around an incredible romantic tension: a perfect grumpy-sunshine, slow-burn romance where 'she needs him, but he needs her in ways he never knew.' I absolutely loved Serenity’s perseverance and Kane’s gruff care and consideration. Even the supporting characters like the sassy Nox and sweet Evie were charming! The book perfectly manages suspense, answering just enough questions to satisfy but concluding with a massive cliffhanger that leaves Serenity torn between her love for Kane and her loyalty to humanity amidst an ongoing rebellion. I cannot wait to see what’s in store for the rest of this series! I highly recommend Bound to all vampire fans.

[Gabriella Torres · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kindly gifted an ARC, but all opinions are my own.

First of all the world. I absolute love the vampire dystopian combination! It is a unique combination that feels a bit difficult to achieve with so many vampire books on the market. It does not feel cliched or overly done. I would have enjoyed a bit more world building to understand the exact politics and maybe more detailed descriptions to paint the mental pictures of the houses and apartments. However, considering this is the first book in a trilogy I am willing to let a bit more slide as I am hoping to see more.

Next, on to the characters. They are ok. This is the only point that becomes slightly cliché. The MMC vampire is typical brooding and weary of people. The MFC is typical dystopian putting herself out there to protect her family. However, that’s not really my issue with them. My issue is that despite them both dealing with intense emotions. They felt a bit flat. Perhaps due to it being the first book. The side characters seem interesting and I will be excited to see what happens with them.

Lastly, the plot has potential so far. Really depends on how to goes in the rest of the trilogy, but I was engaged the whole time while reading.

Overall, I enjoyed the book and will excitedly be awaiting the second book. However, I hope the characters and world are expanded upon and fleshed out a bit more going forward.

[Roma Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charley Black delivers a thrilling story of a vampyr's forbidden bond to a human who has a rare blood type in the book 'Bound'. Serenity a young girl on a quest to save her family, makes the ultimate sacrifice and surrenders herself to the fierce leader vampyr Kane in a application to become an 'Elite human' which by shock, turns Kane's world upside down.

A very descriptive start, setting a story of meaning behind the Elite program and the importance and desire of a rare blood type. You understand the risk that Serenity will make offering herself into a vampyr's lap and potential disposal.

Serenity finds herself bound by a bargain to Vampyr Kane, and although attempting to mask his unnerve and terror, the dark and dangerous Kane is also very charming and likeable. However, the narrative follows Serenity soon to find herself entering a boiling rebellion, where many secrets are unfolded, hidden alliances in unexpected places, leaving you guessing at each chapter.

The author does not shy away from smut, tension and forbidden desire throughout, balanced well with being griped by the storyline of the elite and what is to unfold throughout. Leaves you on a cliff hanger of thoughts, of will it, or wont it? A perfect, tease for Book 2.

[Veronica · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️3.5 Stars⭐️

ARC read - this story was so intriguing, it’s giving vampire diaries/twilight with a slightly darker undertone. I really did enjoy the general storyline here but I struggled to get past a lot of the editing/proofreading issues which left the review lower as it distracted me from the story and I had to keep re-reading to fill in the gaps but I would assume these would be fixed by publishing time.

This is definitely a sloooooow will-they-won’t-they burn, and I’m so interested into where Serenity and Kanes story will go next! Despite the editing issues, I still couldn’t put it down but was hoping for some more ‘drama’ or trials/difficulties toward the end of the book but I know this is planned as a trilogy and assumed we’ve been world-building and collecting info to set us up for book 2.

Will read book 2 when it comes out and am incredibly grateful to have been able to read this pre-publishing. I just feel like I’m still withholding judgement fully until the story continues to find what direction it goes and generally this is let down by poor proofreading which is obviously not against the author at all, it’s just hard to be fully immersed in a world when there are lots of issues.

[Yalonda D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay ladies and gents let's get into this book by @authorcharleyblack because sweet thang.....I couldn't put it down!! So this book follows Serenity and Kane. Serenity is a human and Kane is a vampyr. This book follows where the two are in their own separate worlds but the one thing that binds them is, The Elite program. The Elite program was set forth to bridge a gap between vampyrs and humans where both worlds were satisfied, but that of course would never happen
The Elites are humans who
choose to be constant food for the vampyrs at a cost.
Well Serenity signs up and her life completely changes. Kane is the head of The Elite program. He has restraint that no other vampyr has because he is one of the oldest and most powerful vampyrs alive.
Kane and Serenity are paired up and the flames fly, blood is spilled, lies are told, deception is rampant, secrets are kept, and everyone has something to hide.
There is a war brewing but Serenity and Kane can't see anything but each other. Can they have a forbidden romance without blurring the lines and causing an all out war???
Check this book out, it was an awesome read!! **this book was an ARC**
2 hours ago
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[Alijo · Rating 5 out of 5]

You get:

-Slow burn
-Forced proximity
-Morally grey MMC
-Betrayals
-Multiple POVs
-Dystopian
-Ending that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Charley Black knows how to write a vampire book. Serenity is a human with rare blood. Due to her sister and mom being sick and unable to afford the medication, she chooses to become an elite, which is the humans that are owned by one vampyr to feed on. Due to her blood type, she ends up owned by one of the most powerful vamprys, Kane, which means she has to move in with him.

This book has multiple POVs, Kane’s, Serenity’s and a few of the side characters. I loved that the side characters POVs were included because it gave a lot more insight to Kane’s past and why he is closed off. I do wish Sebastian’s was included but I have a feeling there is a reason for that. Not only do you get a slow burn relationship, but you get mystery and political intrigue. The betrayals and twists left me wanting more and I am so excited for the second book.

[Brit Andrews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Serenity is out of options and with only one thing left to do to support her sickly mother and sister... become an Elite. She doesn’t want to become a Vampyr’s personal donor but it’s the only way to afford medicine for her family. After her father spent so long trying to keep her hidden and safe from Vampyr she’s handed herself right on over to them. And of course she is matched with Kane who happens to be a very powerful Vampyr. There are many obstacles in Serenity’s new life and many secrets her father never told her. As she finds herself pulled in different directions the only thing she’s truly focused on is keeping her family safe. Falling for a Vampyr is definitely not in her plans.

I did like the story and the bits you learn about the world they live in.
However rather predictable which isn’t that big of a problem the problem I have is how painfully naïve Serenity is. Like really some strangers tell you they knew your father so you just believe everything they say and do whatever they tell you? I do still want to read whatever happens next in the series maybe Serenity gets smarter? I hope so.

[Chante Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serenity knew she had no choice but to join the Elite program, despite not wishing to become a meal for a Vampyre. Desperate times called for desperate measures.

The world is intricately crafted, brimming with detail that makes it feel incredibly real and immersive. Serenity, the lead female character, is full of fire and unwavering determination as she fights to keep her family safe. Kane, a brooding and enigmatic vampyre, carries the immense weight of the world on his broad shoulders. Past pains and devastating loss have driven him to become cold and seemingly unfeeling, a stark contrast to the burning passion he tries to suppress. Both characters are exceptionally well-written, their individual complexities adding depth and intrigue to the narrative. The chemistry between them is palpable, leaping off the page.

This book is well done and filled with intrigue and mystery. It's a definite slow burn, and I can't wait to read more, it's shaping up to be an excellent story.

[Stxrbbyreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had the honour of being able to read this Arc, Bound is a slow burn almost enemies to lovers? You don't want to love kane, but he is the sweetest vampyr, and although he's the 'bad guy', he's really not. I was hooked straight away by him, and honestly, I would glad be his Elite. The tension between the main characters was on point and a great slow burn. I liked the plot of the rebellion as well, im so excited to see how it all goes thanks to the ending (WTF IM IN SUSPENCE NOW) it built the world great and the characters, I have a soft spot for Nox. He gave me big scary vampyr who also likes to cook vibes, and did i sense a little M|M tension with him and Rhy? 👀

The tension of will they, won't they between the MFC and MMC ... ugh, yes, I ate it up. Yum yum yum. I'm looking forward to finding out what's going to happen between Serenity and Kane. What side will she pick? Idk, but I'm desperately needing book 2 😅😅

[Karrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating 2.5 stars.
I was kindly gifted an ARC for this book and I wanted to give it my honest review.
The premises of the story was interesting and had a lot of potential. It was kind of like Bride mixed with Vampire Diary mixed with Twilight kind of vibes.
However, the timeline, for me, was a bit strange.
The whole book seemed to have spanned about a week which seems very short to have characters develop the feelings they had towards each other especially when there was so much hesitation and fear at the beginning.
I think I would have preferred to see a bit more trust building with all the characters and a bit more consideration of the decisions made within the plot.
This did make it quite difficult for me to really get into the book.
Overall, it was fun to read but also need to take into consideration that it didn't seem to have been edited by a third party.

[Kerrie Kennedy-Averall · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as part of the ARC team and have to say overall I enjoyed the book.

I would give this book 3.5 ⭐️

There were some errors in the writing that I found, and some repetitiveness, but these could very well be sorted now that the book has been released and it doesn't take away from the plot itself.

The story was enjoyable. Some bits were a little predictable, but there were also surprise turns along the way. There was a little bit of spice but not much. I personally would have preferred a bit more spice, but I can understand that due to the storyline why there isn't more. Maybe in the next books, but that depends on which way the story goes, I suppose... lol

I'm looking forward to the rest of the series to find out what happens next.
I may even have to come back to re-read this story depending on how long I have to wait for the next book(s)...

[des · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bound is a dystopian vampire romance where Kane, the leader or the Human/Vampyr Council, and Serenity, a human desperate to save her family cross paths.

The story has quite a lot of potential, I really enjoyed the dynamic between different pairings, such as Serenity and Evie, Serenity and Nox, and Rhyzand and Nox.
I do wish the story had delved into a lot of their backstories more, however there are two more books to go!

Personally, it took a while to get into however once I hit about 30% in, I got through it quite quickly. I’m excited to see Serenity grow and I’ll be tuned in for the next :)

[Daynara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This take on humans and vampires coexisting in a dystopian world was a breath of fresh air.

Great character and world development. Slow burn, lots of tension between Serenity and Kane on so many different levels.
Oh man the desire in his gaze when he looks at her....extremely intense.
Intriguing plot full of secrets, betrayal and shocking revelations. Couldn't put the book down, I was invested.

The cliffhanger at the end has left me with alot of questions, so I can't wait for Marked (book 2) to come out to hopefully get some answers. Absolutely loved it!
The Elite series is a trilogy.

[renee · Rating 2 out of 5]

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘤!



Bound is a dystopian vampire romance with a lot of potential for future books in the series, but for me personally, this first book didn't quite hit the mark I was hoping for. I feel like the beginning of the story was very slow and about 20% of the beginning could've been cut out to make the romance between the two characters seem more real than what was written. The world that was created for this series is the most intriguing part of the story, but I feel like the romance was a bit too instalovey and forced. Regardless of what I've said in this review, though, I am looking forward to reading more of this series.