Dragon Bond

Ironvale Shifters #1

by Kalli Dean

He’s waited centuries. She’s not ready.
Seren Winters is a scholar, not a warrior, and definitely not dragon rider material. But when the kingdom’s most dangerous dragon shifter claims her in a sacred bonding ceremony, she’s dragged into a world of primal magic, possessive alphas, and a bond she can’t escape.
She wanted quiet. He wants her.
Now she’s his… whether she likes it or not.
Perfect for fans of grumpy x grumpy, fated mates, and dragon shifters who don’t play nice.

207 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 27, 2026

About the author

Kalli Dean lives on coffee, chocolate and Baileys. Not necessarily in that order. She lives on the Mid North Coast of Australia and if she’s not eating, hiking or reading, she’s definitely plotting some scheme for her characters, based on her friend’s real life events (sorry, not sorry!).

Follow Kalli on Instagram or her Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/kallidean1/
https://www.instagram.com/kallidean1/

Reviews

[Amy B · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read from this author and I LOVED IT! I couldn't put it down. If it hadn't been for my kids needing me to help them get ready for school, I would have stayed up all night to finish it. I haven't felt like doing that in a long time. I can't wait for the next installment.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle Frater · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seren Winters has carried the weight of rejection since the day her parents died. Too smart. Too curvy. Too independent. And that strange blue fire humming beneath her skin? Definitely not pack-approved. So, she does what any quietly defiant heroine would do, she buries herself in research, translating and transcribing ancient texts deep within Ironvale’s sprawling archives, keeping her head down and her magic even lower. However, when she turns twenty-one, she is summoned by the High Council to take part in the dreaded Sacred Bonding ceremony, where unbonded dragons choose their riders. Seren has spent years dodging this moment, convinced no dragon would ever claim her. She’s been overlooked too many times to expect anything different. And then the impossible happens. She isn’t just chosen, she’s claimed by Rhydian (Nightfyre), an ancient, devastatingly powerful dragon who has been waiting seven hundred years for her. Rhydian is all Alpha energy and old-world power, but what makes him irresistible is that he sees Seren. He understands her need for autonomy, her discomfort with losing control, her fierce intelligence. He doesn’t try to dim her fire, he reveres it. He waits for her to come to him on her own terms. After centuries of patience, what’s a little longer? Of course, he does lay down a few deliciously possessive rules to establish her place in the pack (yes, pack. Because apparently even dragons sometimes run in packs). And what a pack it is! I adored the eclectic mix. From Fenris and Lowell—the wolf shifters who anchor Rhydian’s core—to the hawk, panther, and bear shifters who each carry their own scars. This found family dynamic hit unexpectedly hard. Watching Seren slowly integrate into this wary, wounded group was deeply satisfying. She doesn’t demand respect; she earns it. She understands their hesitation and meets it with competence, compassion, and quiet strength. The worldbuilding adds real depth, especially surrounding the Convergence and the larger roles Seren and Rhydian are destined to play. Their bond feels both fated and hard-won, and the romance unfolds in a way that balances power, patience, and partnership beautifully. This story delivers ancient dragons, emotional healing, found family, and a heroine who refuses to shrink herself to fit anyone else’s expectations. And honestly? I’m already invested in Fenris and Lowell’s future mate and can’t wait to read their story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chandra Luna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon Bond is the kind of fantasy romance that wraps magic, danger, and passion around you so tightly, you won’t want to leave its world.

Seren Winters is the ultimate heroine: smart, independent, and determined not to be defined by anyone or anything—not even a centuries-old dragon claiming her as his fated mate. Orphaned young and accustomed to standing alone, she’s a scholar first and a fighter second… but her newfound bond with Rhydian changes everything. Watching her navigate a world of dragon shifters, pack dynamics, and ancient magic while holding on to her identity is inspiring and captivating.

Rhydian is the perfect grumpy, possessive alpha—ancient, powerful, and utterly devoted to the mate he’s waited seven centuries to find. His protectiveness never smothers Seren; instead, he encourages her strength, celebrates her intellect, and keeps her safe while letting her shine. Their banter is electric, their bond is sizzling, and the chemistry between them is both magical and steamy.

The secondary pack members—Fenris, Lowell, and the other shifters—add depth, humor, and heart to the story. I loved how Seren earned their respect, proved her worth, and became a vital part of the pack rather than just a passenger in Rhydian’s world.

Between high-stakes adventure, spicy romance, and the slow unveiling of fated-mate magic, Dragon Bond balances action, emotion, and romance beautifully. The mix of grumpy x grumpy, intelligent heroine, and dragon-shifter lore makes it a page-turner for fans of shifter romance and magical adventures.

If you love:

Fated mates and dragon shifters

Strong, intelligent heroines

Protective, centuries-old alphas

Pack dynamics and magical worlds

Sexy, spicy romance with adventure

Dragon Bond is a must-read.

This is a story about patience, power, and a bond so deep it could change the world… and one “Little Scholar” who proves brains and bravery are just as deadly as fire.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Schellie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a beautiful, magical, sexy, spicy Drakonian fantasy.
Rhydian has waited over 7 centuries for his mate, he had almost given up on ever finding her. Then on her 16th birthday, her anchient Birth Magic manifested, stronger than ever before. This gives him the opportunity to keep an eye on her, make sure she's safe until she's ready.
Seren has been alone, orphaned since her parents died in an accident when she was 12. She has been rejected be several packs, for not being able to adapt to their rules, an independent streak a mile wide & her strange magic. She has been a lone scholar, studying the ancient texts & transcribing them. When she is force to attend the Sacred Bonding Ceremony to become a dragon rider There is a wise, ancient black dragon off to the side. It is said that Nightfyre does not participate in the ceremony, but after 15 yrs of not choosing a rider, he chose Seren.
Ahe is now part of his pack, which includes wolf shifters Fenris & Lowell, his "brothers", bear, hawk & large cat shifters as well
Back at their den, she must learn to understand the ways of the pack & refuses to lose herself. Rhydian has no plans to change her, he enjoys the fire she possesses & their magic together is more powerful than ever before. The question is, will it be powerful enough to save the world when the Solstis comes around? The veil will thin, giving the Shadowkeep the chance to attach their den.
I enjoyed the banter between Rhydian, Seren, Fenris & Lowell. I liked that Seren was a strong woman with an educated mind & stood her ground. Showed them what she could do for the pack instead of sitting back. I loved how Rhydian let her be herself, but still kept her in line for her safety among the pack. This story was sexy, spicy & a bit adventurous. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. Enjoy

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ironvale Shifters: 1 - Rhydian and Seren

Tropes:
* Paranormal
* Age gap (700+ years)
* Dragon shifter MMC
* Scholar FMC
* Grumpy x grumpy
* Fated mates

What an interesting premise, and I quite enjoyed it. The fated mates, prophecy and dragon shift x magic-wielding human, mixed-species pack alpha was an enjoyable read.
I enjoyed the fact that he appreciated her scholar nature and didn’t dismiss it. She was intelligent, calm and didn’t resort to outlandish emotions when faced with past lovers.
I love his nickname for his ‘Little Scholar’, and his care for her.

It was relatively fast-paced, but occasionally felt a bit slow in the middle when building the non-romance portion of the plot. The challenge, was that the ending felt a tiny bit rushed.

There were allusions to MFMM in there, and I was worried. Nothing against it (I read it), but I need to prepare for it! Thankfully, nothing on page. A vague mention, but then leading straight into the next story with a mysterious setup.

Thanks Kalli for the advance copy.

[Catherine Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon Bond was a captivating and thoroughly enjoyable start to the Ironvale Shifters series. I loved how quickly the story pulled me in, combining action, emotion, and romance in a way that made it hard to put down. The dragon shifter element was exciting and well integrated, adding both danger and intensity to the romance.

The hero was strong, protective, and undeniably compelling, while the heroine brought heart, courage, and emotional depth to the story. Their bond felt powerful and destined, and I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop amid the challenges they faced. The worldbuilding was engaging without being overwhelming, making this a great entry point into a new shifter series.

I would highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy dragon shifter romance, fated mates, and fast-paced stories with plenty of heart and heat. If you’re looking for a page-turning paranormal romance that sets up an exciting series, this one is a great choice.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tima · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars. This story is dual POV, well written, and a fast-paced, fated mates, fantasy romance between Seren, the female magic wielding human lead, and Rhydian, the male dragon shifter, pack alpha lead who is her fated mate. I enjoyed Rhydian’s patience and enthusiastic consent focus, as well as his genuine interest in Seren’s scholarly interests. I enjoyed Seren’s intelligence and her capacity to synthesise information to identify patterns. I enjoyed the non-romance plot, and the contributory importance of secondary characters. I enjoyed the building intimacy. I enjoyed the supportive pack family, and the set up for the next story.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.

[Maria Georgia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love dragon shifters.
Especially those who don't play nice.

From books to war.
From scholar to dragon rider.
Soul calling to soul.
He is a fierce protector
claiming her as his own.
She is fiercely protecting her independence
as the last line of defense.
Is there a common ground?

The words Kalli Dean chooses
to describe the bond
is the way every relationship
should make partners feel.
Safe, seen, understood, accepted,
mentally and physically.
Magical, in a way it always feels like a beginning.

The scenes at the ancient spring
are magical, fantastic, perfect!!!
Their union presented
like a precious moment.
Physical and magical connection!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon Bond by Kalli Dean is a paranormal romance with shifters and other beings who have magic. Seren, a scholar, has been invited to ceremony where riders are presented to unbound dragons. Seren is reluctant to attend the ceremony because she has never fit in amongst any packs due to her type of magic and her independence. Rhydian, a black dragon, is drawn to Seren’s magic, and claims Seren.

With Rhydian and his pack, Seren finally finds a place where she fits in, where she can use her knowledge to protect the pack, and where she finds true partnership and love.

Dragon Bond is a truly magical book!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 1 of the Ironvale Shifters series. And a FANrastic start it is! Look forward to more from this world.

'But when the kingdom’s most dangerous dragon shifter claims her in a sacred bonding ceremony, she’s dragged into a world of primal magic, possessive alphas, and a bond she can’t escape.'

The characters drove the storyline and they were very compelling and complex and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and intense and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars
Tropes:
~ Shifters
~ Found family
~ Prophecies
~ Multiple POV's
~ Fated Mates

I really enjoyed this book. Our FMC Seren who is a magic wielding human scholar and our MMC Rhydian a dragon shifter brought together by a prophecy.
I loved Rhydian's nickname for Seren "little scholar" every time I read that I smiled.
The descriptive world building in this book was amazing.
The plot was great, very fast paced, action packed.
I enjoyed the little sneak peek chapter at the end for the next book.
I would definitely recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful world-building.
Dive head first into a new world where prophecy proves that fate and the universe know exactly what it is doing. A rich story of magnificent dragons, devoted wolves, and magic beyond understanding all coming together to battle evil. This is a riveting story of a misfit FMC that doesn’t, and won’t, conform to expectations, who finds her forever family. It is a HEA HFN with a gentle cliff-hanger. I cannot wait for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this love story with a difference. Descriptive narrative which allowed me to imagine the glow of the magic with the bonding of Seren and Rhydian. Beside their love story was the issues they had with the protection of their land which added another dimension to the story.
I haven’t read many books about shifters but can’t wait for the next book by Kalli in this theme.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[JenBookEnthusiast · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book of the Ironvale Shifters series by Kalli Dean. I really enjoy fantasy paranormal romances and this one checked all of my boxes! Kalli provided a wonderfully descriptive world where its easy to envision the kingdom, territories, strong hold fortress, and the magic rich environment. All of that supports the fast-paced plot of finding one's mate, battling evil forces and accepting one's fate despite or because of a prophecy. You will find compelling characters, different shifters (including dragons (yes!), wolves, and other beings), a found family, and great dialogue that will have you riveted to the challenges faced throughout the story.

I recommend this one and look forward to the continuation of this series.

I received an early copy for my honest review.

[Mrs Reads Between The Lines · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who doesn’t love a magic-wielding human and a dragon shifter who’s waited over seven centuries for his fated mate?!!

Seren is intelligent and independent. Rhydian may be an alpha dragon shifter, but he doesn’t want to change Seren - he wants her light to shine brightly. They’re both powerful - but together? Seren and Rhydian’s magic is more powerful than ever before.

If you enjoy paranormal fantasy romances, then Dragon Bond is for you!

*Please read trigger and content warnings.*

I received an advanced copy. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Susan Klipp · Rating 4 out of 5]

An academic outcast and a dangerous dragon. There is a prophecy, of course there is, bad guys, and mysteries. Through it all, our dragon hero, Rhydian, never pressures our heroine, Seren. He allows her to find her own way and make her own choices no matter what the prophecy says.

He asks consent each step of the way and honestly, it is so sexy! It never felt imposing, overwhelming, or frustrating. It showed how much he really cared for her. I definitely recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved everything about this story!!

The strong worldbuilding allowed the reader to discover the connection between Seren & Rhydian as she did. A lifetime of not fitting in and endless rejection which had manifested skills which over time became crucial to the role that the pair were destined to fulfil.

Their bond and connection were apparent from the beginning however Seren was allowed time for the attraction to grow organically without pressure that she wasnt ready for.

Cannot wait for the next book and to see where this story goes!

[Michele Flannery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rhydian has waited centuries for his mate, almost giving up on the idea entirely. Seren was orphaned young and has taught herself to be independent and intelligent. She's been overlooked for years but Rhydian claims her as his mate and takes her home to his pack. A pack full of all kinds of shifters. He encourages her independence and doesn't want to make her small. Their story is full of love, laughter and learning to accept what fate has brought into her life.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Arlene M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rhydian is a 700 year old dragon shifter.
Seren Winters is human , independent female , who is a scholarly type and her magic has blossomed.

Rhydian and Seren are fated mates.
Seren’s magic has blossomed and a human female and Rhydian fated mates.
He is patient with her scholarly, intelligent ways.
Can they have a Happily Ever After?

This book is is fast paced and slow in ways. It has a Dragon Shifter and a human female.

Great Job. Kalli Dean!!!!!

[Melissa Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in Ironvale Shifters series. This is a different style of writing for Kalli Dean. I enjoyed it with the bonding between dragon shifters and a human with old magic. It was intriguing and kept me invested to the point I can't wait til the second book. Will definitely read more like this from this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rhydian and Serne are bonded even if Serne has never wanted to bond to a dragon. This book is full of shifters, love, bonds and magic. This pack of misfits is full of strength and working together they protect their lands. If you love paranormal romance full of shifters, magic, ancient prophecy and a great world this first book in this series will leave you impatiently waiting for book 2.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[L KQ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bonding Ceremony

Seren has constantly been rejected by packs until the moment she attends a dragon bonding ceremony and meets Rhydian. Trust doesn’t come easily and bonding as mates takes time to accept. Their attraction was instant and their magic drawn toward each other wanting to form the convergence. It was well written and I absolutely loved these characters. I could not put it down!

I am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Cindy Palmer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome to a new world that Kalli Dean has wonderful crafted. Seren is a human who is independent and witty. Rhydian is an alpha dragon shifter and her fated mate. He's been waiting for her for 700 years. Both characters are powerful in their own rights and together they are electric. Be aware that this ends on a small cliffhanger so I suggest that you have book 2 ready to go so you don't have to wait.

[Indie · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it !! a great start for this new series !! love Seren and Rhydian.. this is their story.. a fun fast paced rom/drama... Seren is a scholar, an orphan, never had a pack... Rhydian has waited seven hundred years for her... at the sacred bonding ceremony for dragon riders.. he picks her !!! she must now learn his packs dynamics and more... this is so good !!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[G Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic start to a new series. The world building was superb, and the characters were well rounded and relatable.
I loved that both Rhydian and Seren had strong personalities, but they found balance between them.
All in all a great read, I am looking forward to the next book of the series.

[Debbie Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I liked this new series starter where their union was prophesied. I liked how Rhydian clamed her in the bond but gave Seren time to accept. Both were needed to balance the Convergence. I liked how they succeed with their love and their bond.

[Amy Hutchins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon Bond is the kind of fantasy romance that you want to step into that world and not come back. Seren is such an awesome heroine, to me she's the whole package. The bond between her and Rhydian gives you hope between mates who truly compliment each other, and the chemistry just adds to it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seren just wants to be left alone with her books and scrolls. Being rejected by every pack does something to a person after awhile. Now she's bonded to a dragon and things are fixing to change in a mighty way. This is number 1 in the Ironvale series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cherie Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story overall. It took a different take on dragons and magic, shifters too. They had evil to fight but in the end it was their bond that protected them all.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved reading this book. Always love a great shifter read. Loved the storyline and the dragon.
Dragon Bond: A Dragon Shifter Romance
Book 1 of Ironvale Shifters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.