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A dragon’s prisoner… or his deepest desire?
The fiercest of a royal line of Russian dragon shifters, Rurik Barinov spends most days defending his family’s homeland from rival clans. By night, sins of the flesh — drinking, dancing, and sex — keep his volatile warrior dragon in check. Barely.
With his choice of mortal women to bed, he has no interest in changing his bad-boy ways — until a creature of molten sex poured into a tiny red satin dress steps into his nightclub. A jagged edge of raw desire nicks the impenetrable armor around his heart.
Charlotte MacQueen has been told since childhood to stay in school, live a normal life. Leave the family business — hunting down dragons — to her brothers. But tonight, she’s shed her chemist’s lab coat and infiltrated enemy lines to bag a dragon of her own.
She never expected sexy, all-too-wicked Rurik Barinov to capture her, body and soul — the perfect weapon to use against her brothers. Or that she’d fall for the brave, battle-scarred dragon shifter who covets her heart like the most precious of jewels.
A dragon’s prisoner… or his deepest desire?
The fiercest of a royal line of Russian dragon shifters, Rurik Barinov spends most days defending his family’s homeland from rival clans. By night, sins of the flesh — drinking, dancing, and sex — keep his volatile warrior dragon in check. Barely.
With his choice of mortal women to bed, he has no interest in changing his bad-boy ways — until a creature of molten sex poured into a tiny red satin dress steps into his nightclub. A jagged edge of raw desire nicks the impenetrable armor around his heart.
Charlotte MacQueen has been told since childhood to stay in school, live a normal life. Leave the family business — hunting down dragons — to her brothers. But tonight, she’s shed her chemist’s lab coat and infiltrated enemy lines to bag a dragon of her own.
She never expected sexy, all-too-wicked Rurik Barinov to capture her, body and soul — the perfect weapon to use against her brothers. Or that she’d fall for the brave, battle-scarred dragon shifter who covets her heart like the most precious of jewels.
268 pages, ebook
First published February 22, 2018
84 people are currently reading
475 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Smith
143 books2,190 followersLauren Smith is a USA Today Best-Selling author and an Oklahoma attorney. She knew she was destined to be a romance writer when she attempted to re-write the entire Titanic movie just to save Jack from drowning. Connecting with readers by writing emotionally moving, realistic and sexy romances no matter what time period is her passion. She’s won multiple awards in several romance subgenres including: New England Reader’s Choice Awards, Greater Detroit BookSeller’s Best Awards, Amazon.com Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-Finalist and a Semi-Finalist for the Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Award. To connect with Lauren, visit her at www.laurensmithbooks.com or twitter at @LSmithAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
February 25, 2023
This Dragon be hot!!! Rurik is hot,sexy and a dragon!!what girl can resist his charm and sex appeal!! Not many women could, not even charotte she has every intention of bagging this Dragon and bringing him back to the brotherhood so that her brothers see she's more then just their little sister and make her part of the team and maybe she can even help stop a all out war between rival dragons,but what she didn't count on was falling in love with rurik.Rurik has always loved women ,but being a war Dragon he knows that he is the last defence in protecting his family and especially now since both his brother grigori and now mikhail have both found their mates,but deep down this sexy hot charming Dragon has wanted to be mated.Fate will have its way ,but first both rurik and Charlotte will have to deal with not only their family's but with rivail dragons who want to wipe out the barinov brothers forever!!! I love the whole russian vibe and her characters are awesome too. Can't wait for her next book in this series,got a peek at the new cover at the end of the book!!! It's awesome!
February 25, 2018
To sum up Rurik, combine Grigori and Mikhail, which reinforces my growing theory that Lauren Smith has a formula and she’s sticking to it.
A sweet, innocent virgin ordering around a dragon.”
We all know their desirability—no alpha man can resist, human or supernatural, and I generally have have no issue with that. Twice on the trot in a series and I start to get a bit twitchy, but three in succession?
To be fair, regurgitating the same trope, irrespective of which it is, will peeve me a little—it’s a big world out there with many people of different shapes, sizes and predilections. But maybe mix it up a bit in the name of keeping things fresh, maybe even not have a virgin—not that I’ve anything against them, after all I was once one.
I know how this story ends.”
I loved Rurik in the first book: Grigori made my favourites of 2017 list for several reasons. And although there were glimmers of why that was the case, overall he, Charlotte and the series were let down by repetitive story direction, and a book which could have been great was sadly average at best.
Copy received courtesy of Foreword PR for an honest and unbiased opinion.
A sweet, innocent virgin ordering around a dragon.”
We all know their desirability—no alpha man can resist, human or supernatural, and I generally have have no issue with that. Twice on the trot in a series and I start to get a bit twitchy, but three in succession?
To be fair, regurgitating the same trope, irrespective of which it is, will peeve me a little—it’s a big world out there with many people of different shapes, sizes and predilections. But maybe mix it up a bit in the name of keeping things fresh, maybe even not have a virgin—not that I’ve anything against them, after all I was once one.
I know how this story ends.”
I loved Rurik in the first book: Grigori made my favourites of 2017 list for several reasons. And although there were glimmers of why that was the case, overall he, Charlotte and the series were let down by repetitive story direction, and a book which could have been great was sadly average at best.
Copy received courtesy of Foreword PR for an honest and unbiased opinion.
April 28, 2019
no, no, no. I hate hearing about your dead "love" or "mate" I hate it even more that you think of her while with your new mate. It totally makes the "mate" thing so worthless. Your brother waited thousands of years to find a mate and you have a couple within months? Total bullshit! I liked this series. But this book...I hated it! I was SO sick of hearing about his dead mate. Who he actually never mated!!!!
June 30, 2021
3 Lacklustre Stars
I was looking for a nice bit of escapism but that didn't happen. The MCs in this just didn't draw me in nor did the plot.
Not going in my re-read pile.
99p on Amazon.
I was looking for a nice bit of escapism but that didn't happen. The MCs in this just didn't draw me in nor did the plot.
Not going in my re-read pile.
99p on Amazon.
February 22, 2018
I am enjoying the hell out of this series. It's a great blend of action, adventure and love. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
ARC won in a contest
ARC won in a contest
February 23, 2018
I have been enjoying this series but I must admit that Rurik has been my favorite of the series thus far. Rurik is the third book in the Brothers of Ash and Fire Series and although it can be read as a standalone I highly recommend reading the entire series in order that way you do not miss a bit of how the three brothers find their true mates and you will understand the common thread of fighting with another dragon that runs throughout the three books.
Click below to continue reading my review, and while you're there be sure to enter the giveaway for a chance to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card from Lauren Smith....
https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...
Click below to continue reading my review, and while you're there be sure to enter the giveaway for a chance to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card from Lauren Smith....
https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...
February 22, 2018
Just when I thought I couldn't love this amazing Brothers of Ash and Fire series more, I finally learn all about Rurik. And damn. Hooked again!
Rurik is the battle dragon in the family-the protector, the warrior. He's been told since he was a drakling that his role is to protect the family at all costs-even personal costs when it comes to finding love and a mate. He's been tempted before, but no one had tempted him more than Charlotte McQueen. And he's not sure he's strong enough to fight against the feelings he's having.
Charlotte just wants to know she's seen and heard as a valuable member of her powerful family of dragon hunters. She's been kept out of the hunt, but she's determined to prove herself to her brothers once and for all. What she didn't count on was her heart becoming involved. And finding that capturing a dragon isn't easy when love and the heart get in the way.
Sigh. Seriously. I just love this series. Rurik and Charlotte's interactions were smart, sexy, funny and perfect. I loved Rurik's protective nature toward Charlotte and his brothers. And Charlotte, she's a terrific female lead-no simpering female here! She's Rurik's perfect match! ~ Missy, 5 stars
Rurik is the battle dragon in the family-the protector, the warrior. He's been told since he was a drakling that his role is to protect the family at all costs-even personal costs when it comes to finding love and a mate. He's been tempted before, but no one had tempted him more than Charlotte McQueen. And he's not sure he's strong enough to fight against the feelings he's having.
Charlotte just wants to know she's seen and heard as a valuable member of her powerful family of dragon hunters. She's been kept out of the hunt, but she's determined to prove herself to her brothers once and for all. What she didn't count on was her heart becoming involved. And finding that capturing a dragon isn't easy when love and the heart get in the way.
Sigh. Seriously. I just love this series. Rurik and Charlotte's interactions were smart, sexy, funny and perfect. I loved Rurik's protective nature toward Charlotte and his brothers. And Charlotte, she's a terrific female lead-no simpering female here! She's Rurik's perfect match! ~ Missy, 5 stars
February 19, 2018
Rurik by Lauren Smith is book Three in the "Brothers of Ash and Fire" series. This is the story of Rurik Barinov and Charlotte MacQueen. I have read (and loved) the previous book in this series but feel this can easily be a standalone book if you choose to do so.
After Charlotte parents died her two brothers Damien and Jason, took over the care of her and they became very protective of her. Not letting her be a part of the family business of hunting dragons and the Brotherhood. But Charlotte wants to prove herself to her brothers and sneaks off to Moscow to try to meet Rurik. None of the others have been able to get close to him. Charlotte is a biochemist and not used to be a seductive women of the world but she catches Rurik's eye.
But they both find an attraction and feelings are starting to develop. Rurik has always been the guard and fighter for the family can Charlotte weaken him from that?
I have been crazy about this series and this book was just great! Loved it! I can never get enough of Ms. Smith's writing!
After Charlotte parents died her two brothers Damien and Jason, took over the care of her and they became very protective of her. Not letting her be a part of the family business of hunting dragons and the Brotherhood. But Charlotte wants to prove herself to her brothers and sneaks off to Moscow to try to meet Rurik. None of the others have been able to get close to him. Charlotte is a biochemist and not used to be a seductive women of the world but she catches Rurik's eye.
But they both find an attraction and feelings are starting to develop. Rurik has always been the guard and fighter for the family can Charlotte weaken him from that?
I have been crazy about this series and this book was just great! Loved it! I can never get enough of Ms. Smith's writing!
February 9, 2018
4 Stars - 3 Flames
(Sigh) These brothers! These ladies! What an amazing series!
Rurik is the third and youngest brother to Grigori and Mikhail. Where Grigori was the leader and Mikhail the thief/advocate of jewels, Rurik was the protector for his family. He is the battle dragon. The strongest and bravest. Which is exactly why he has fought the urge to mate. It would only make him weak, posing a threat to his family. But the moment he sees Charlotte in his club, he couldn't seem to think straight. But is she who she says she is?
Charlotte is the sister of the leaders of the Brotherhood. The same Brotherhood who has a very bad reputation in the supernatural world thanks to her grandfather. But her brothers have been trying to mend the family name and make things right within the Brotherhood. Too bad they don't trust her. In fact, they smother her by controlling her and keeping her away from the things that go bump in the night. But now that she has her hands on the serum, she wants to prove to her brothers that she's capable of being one of them, a member of the Brotherhood. But she may have bit off a little more than she can chew.
To say these two have chemistry is understated. The mating process starts sooner in this book than the others, but it's also deeper and more. You'll understand when you read it. But we get to see the love between families strengthen as well. The bonding between these two is beautiful. But the bonding between these two families is magical.
The author described this book perfectly within it. Think Romeo and Juliet with a supernatural twist and you've got this book in a nut shell. And it's great!
(Sigh) These brothers! These ladies! What an amazing series!
Rurik is the third and youngest brother to Grigori and Mikhail. Where Grigori was the leader and Mikhail the thief/advocate of jewels, Rurik was the protector for his family. He is the battle dragon. The strongest and bravest. Which is exactly why he has fought the urge to mate. It would only make him weak, posing a threat to his family. But the moment he sees Charlotte in his club, he couldn't seem to think straight. But is she who she says she is?
Charlotte is the sister of the leaders of the Brotherhood. The same Brotherhood who has a very bad reputation in the supernatural world thanks to her grandfather. But her brothers have been trying to mend the family name and make things right within the Brotherhood. Too bad they don't trust her. In fact, they smother her by controlling her and keeping her away from the things that go bump in the night. But now that she has her hands on the serum, she wants to prove to her brothers that she's capable of being one of them, a member of the Brotherhood. But she may have bit off a little more than she can chew.
To say these two have chemistry is understated. The mating process starts sooner in this book than the others, but it's also deeper and more. You'll understand when you read it. But we get to see the love between families strengthen as well. The bonding between these two is beautiful. But the bonding between these two families is magical.
The author described this book perfectly within it. Think Romeo and Juliet with a supernatural twist and you've got this book in a nut shell. And it's great!
February 23, 2018
4.5 Stars
This is the third book of this Dragon Shifter series and it's time for the baby brother to find his HEA! I have loved the premise of the series since book one and this one brought all the heat as well as a ton of dragon fighting action.
Rurik is afraid to find his true mate. He must protect his family at all costs. Charlotte has been excluded from the family business her whole life. Now she thinks she has developed the serum to contain a dragon and thus help her brothers in their work. The clash of worlds and the thumping of hearts, makes this little adventure more than either Rurik or Charlotte were bargaining for.
Great to see the previous couples all come together in support of Rurik. Loved seeing the mending of fences between the Dragons and the Dragon Hunters. Still some great secondary characters hanging out there. I'm not sure where the author may go with this. If this is the last of the series, I am fine with the wrap up. If not, gimme more, please!!!
*Complementary copy provided for an honest review.
This is the third book of this Dragon Shifter series and it's time for the baby brother to find his HEA! I have loved the premise of the series since book one and this one brought all the heat as well as a ton of dragon fighting action.
Rurik is afraid to find his true mate. He must protect his family at all costs. Charlotte has been excluded from the family business her whole life. Now she thinks she has developed the serum to contain a dragon and thus help her brothers in their work. The clash of worlds and the thumping of hearts, makes this little adventure more than either Rurik or Charlotte were bargaining for.
Great to see the previous couples all come together in support of Rurik. Loved seeing the mending of fences between the Dragons and the Dragon Hunters. Still some great secondary characters hanging out there. I'm not sure where the author may go with this. If this is the last of the series, I am fine with the wrap up. If not, gimme more, please!!!
*Complementary copy provided for an honest review.
August 1, 2018
**NOTE**: I had the exact same issues with this book as with the previous book, so I am just going to copy/paste my review for book two.
I know I am probably the odd one out here, but I didn't like this book as much as the first one.
The characters were interesting enough, the story was entertaining enough, but the romance itself was meh. Once again, we are given a heroine who falls much too easily into the hero's arms. Whatever, so they are "mates", that doesn't mean the woman should just turn to putty. Think of the mates in Kresley Cole books. NONE of those heroines were easy to get. I LOVED that about her books. She writes an amazingly tough, hard to seduce heroine. Much like normal women, BTW. A real, street smart woman, who is a little jaded from sucky dating, isn't going to just fall at the hero's feet and give him her virginity just because, "hey, he makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside."
Bullshit.
The sex was tepid, the descriptions were weak, the chemistry was forced, and I always felt like there should just be more . This book did not deliver the sexy shifter romance I was hoping for.
Oh, and NO ONE talked about Dimitri's body, so... Is that an egregious plot hole or a way to keep him alive for book four?
I know I am probably the odd one out here, but I didn't like this book as much as the first one.
The characters were interesting enough, the story was entertaining enough, but the romance itself was meh. Once again, we are given a heroine who falls much too easily into the hero's arms. Whatever, so they are "mates", that doesn't mean the woman should just turn to putty. Think of the mates in Kresley Cole books. NONE of those heroines were easy to get. I LOVED that about her books. She writes an amazingly tough, hard to seduce heroine. Much like normal women, BTW. A real, street smart woman, who is a little jaded from sucky dating, isn't going to just fall at the hero's feet and give him her virginity just because, "hey, he makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside."
Bullshit.
The sex was tepid, the descriptions were weak, the chemistry was forced, and I always felt like there should just be more . This book did not deliver the sexy shifter romance I was hoping for.
Oh, and NO ONE talked about Dimitri's body, so... Is that an egregious plot hole or a way to keep him alive for book four?
February 7, 2018
RURIK starts with a wonderful opening sequence, which sets the pace for the whole story. Charlotte MacQueen is all dolled up to seduce a dragon shifter: Rurik, the Barinov brother with a sexy biker look. Charlotte’s two older brothers, Damien and Jason, would be furious if they knew that she was alone in Russia. Charlotte is a biochemist and she has something she wants to try out; the only other person who knows is her friend Meg, a hunter with the Brotherhood of the Blood Moon. Charlotte, at first, only wants to have a look at Rurik, but at the club, some men bother her, and Rurik comes to her rescue, and things escalate from there.
Poor Charlotte and her overprotective, stubborn brothers, Damien and Jason! RURIK has one of the best examples of instalust working perfectly; it’s done rather subtly, and it’s convincing. This book is action-packed, there’s a lot going on, but it’s all well balanced and perfectly paced. It is also, in my opinion, the most romantic of the Brothers of Ash and Fire series. Rurik is totally swoonworthy! And the chemistry between these two! Charlotte is a bit out of her element; she is not a hunter, but she can defend herself when she had to, and in one case I thought it was quite ingenious and pretty funny; in another, daring and brave.
There were a lot of fascinating historical details, and the paranormal elements were stunning. There were several conflicts, all realistically handled and satisfactorily resolved. But watch out for that Jason MacQueen; boy, is he ever a loose cannon! I loved the little wink to a classic French movie with the name of a secondary character! As always, Lauren Smith’s prose is gorgeous and fluid, the dialogues spot-on, and there is a wonderful surprise at the end of the book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I give 4 ½ stars
Poor Charlotte and her overprotective, stubborn brothers, Damien and Jason! RURIK has one of the best examples of instalust working perfectly; it’s done rather subtly, and it’s convincing. This book is action-packed, there’s a lot going on, but it’s all well balanced and perfectly paced. It is also, in my opinion, the most romantic of the Brothers of Ash and Fire series. Rurik is totally swoonworthy! And the chemistry between these two! Charlotte is a bit out of her element; she is not a hunter, but she can defend herself when she had to, and in one case I thought it was quite ingenious and pretty funny; in another, daring and brave.
There were a lot of fascinating historical details, and the paranormal elements were stunning. There were several conflicts, all realistically handled and satisfactorily resolved. But watch out for that Jason MacQueen; boy, is he ever a loose cannon! I loved the little wink to a classic French movie with the name of a secondary character! As always, Lauren Smith’s prose is gorgeous and fluid, the dialogues spot-on, and there is a wonderful surprise at the end of the book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I give 4 ½ stars
February 9, 2018
4.5 Cranky Stars
Rurik is the Barinov family battle dragon. He is tasked with upholding the family name should anyone try to challenge them. While yes Grigori and Mikhail are dragons and trained they don’t have Ruriks exact skill set. Rurik runs a series of nightclubs tailored more to fantasy and pleasure and doesn’t involve himself in any emotional entanglements. When a beautiful girl in a sexy red dress shows up at his club he is drawn to her and can’t stop the inevitable. There is a price on his head and this woman is involved.
Charlotte was just trying to prove her worth to her brothers. They run the Brotherhood that is tasked with policing magical beings. She lives a very solitary life as a biochemist when she is asked if she recreate a serum that will keep a dragon shifters dragon side at bay. She lies and sets off to Moscow. She didn’t think that simple recon would throw her into a turf war between dragons. Now she needs to prove herself to Rurik and prove that her feelings are so much more than what she intended to do.
I love this series plain and simple. When dragons love a mate it’s forever. Rurik desperately wanted to find love but thought it wasn’t for him. I felt bad for Charlotte having brothers like hers they were overbearing jerks. This story flowed nicely and while their love was almost instant it works for them. I would recommend this series to anyone who loves dragons, love, and steamy sexy times.
Rurik is the Barinov family battle dragon. He is tasked with upholding the family name should anyone try to challenge them. While yes Grigori and Mikhail are dragons and trained they don’t have Ruriks exact skill set. Rurik runs a series of nightclubs tailored more to fantasy and pleasure and doesn’t involve himself in any emotional entanglements. When a beautiful girl in a sexy red dress shows up at his club he is drawn to her and can’t stop the inevitable. There is a price on his head and this woman is involved.
Charlotte was just trying to prove her worth to her brothers. They run the Brotherhood that is tasked with policing magical beings. She lives a very solitary life as a biochemist when she is asked if she recreate a serum that will keep a dragon shifters dragon side at bay. She lies and sets off to Moscow. She didn’t think that simple recon would throw her into a turf war between dragons. Now she needs to prove herself to Rurik and prove that her feelings are so much more than what she intended to do.
I love this series plain and simple. When dragons love a mate it’s forever. Rurik desperately wanted to find love but thought it wasn’t for him. I felt bad for Charlotte having brothers like hers they were overbearing jerks. This story flowed nicely and while their love was almost instant it works for them. I would recommend this series to anyone who loves dragons, love, and steamy sexy times.
February 21, 2018
Can a fierce dragon shifter and a woman close to the Brotherhood who hunts them ever attract? Not usually but in this paranormal story filled with suspense, conflicted emotions and intense feelings, it is possible. Rurik, the protector of his family of dragon shifters, is also the strongest and fiercest in battle. Charlotte McQueen, sister of the Brotherhood leader, travels to Russia to prove to her brothers she deserves to be one of them. Meeting up with Rurik, turns her upside down because of the intense attraction which quickly spirals out of control. There are many forces at work in this story and it will keep you turning the pages to see what the outcome will be. Lauren Smith takes you through this third book in the Brothers of Ash and Fire series as only she can do... With great characters and descriptions that take you into another world!
September 24, 2019
4 Stars / 3 Steam Fans
I really enjoyed this last book of the Brothers of Ashes and Fire series. Rurik is the warrior dragon of the family and sworn to protect the family. Charlotte is the sister of hunters but when they can't get the answers they are looking for she decides to take matters into her own hands. Rurik and Charlotte have an instant connection that they try to resist. In the end they have to find a way to be together.
This specific video review will be included in the September 2019 wrap-up.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
I really enjoyed this last book of the Brothers of Ashes and Fire series. Rurik is the warrior dragon of the family and sworn to protect the family. Charlotte is the sister of hunters but when they can't get the answers they are looking for she decides to take matters into her own hands. Rurik and Charlotte have an instant connection that they try to resist. In the end they have to find a way to be together.
This specific video review will be included in the September 2019 wrap-up.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
February 17, 2018
Rurik sure his proud of his prowess, "Rurik gave a gentle rumbling laugh. “My apologies. I got carried away when you begged me to do it. You will be sore for a few days.” Rurik is a protective man, “that sounds fun.” Rurik chuckled. “I’ll be keeping you away from all of that danger from now on,” Rurik told her imperiously." I lovedthis book, I think it was the last in the series which saddens me because I will miss these dragons.
February 17, 2018
Publisher's Description:
The fiercest of a royal line of Russian dragon shifters, Rurik Barinov spends most days defending his family’s homeland from rival clans. By night, sins of the flesh — drinking, dancing, and sex — keep his volatile warrior dragon in check. Barely.
With his choice of mortal women to bed, he has no interest in changing his bad-boy ways — until a creature of molten sex poured into a tiny red satin dress steps into his nightclub. A jagged edge of raw desire nicks the impenetrable armor around his heart.
Charlotte MacQueen has been told since childhood to stay in school, live a normal life. Leave the family business — hunting down dragons — to her brothers. But tonight, she’s shed her chemist’s lab coat and infiltrated enemy lines to bag a dragon of her own.
She never expected sexy, all-too-wicked Rurik Barinov to capture her, body and soul — the perfect weapon to use against her brothers. Or that she’d fall for the brave, battle-scarred dragon shifter who covets her heart like the most precious of jewels.
Twilight meets Games of Thrones in this hot new dragonshifter romance by USA Today Bestselling author Lauren Smith!
My Thoughts:
I loved this third book of the series as much if not more than Grigori and Mikhail's stories.
I finished reading it in two sittings. I probably would have read it in one but work interfered with my reading.
Rurik is the bad boy brother. He owns a nightclub and rides a motorcycle.
He is also the warrior dragon of his family so has spent his life knowing he is destined to not take a mate.
He recently lost a woman he was sure was that destined mate to death so when he meets Charlotte he can't believe his luck. This is the one! His true mate and he can't and won't resist taking her as his own.
There is one big obstacle. Her brothers hunt supernatural beings.
Charlotte has spent her life trying to prove her worth to her brothers.
She has traveled to Russia to accomplish something none of her brother's agents could do.
She intends to capture Rurik and deliver him to the brotherhood.
Not everything is going her way though. She is attracted to the shape shifter like no man before.
Can Rurik and Charlotte overcome the obvious obstacles standing in the way of their love and happily ever after or will Charlotte's humanity spell the end for them both?
I gave this book 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 4.5 of 5.0 flames.
The intimacy between our hero and heroine is hot beyond measure.
Since we thought this was the final book of the series I am thrilled that book four will be coming later this year, The Lost Baranov.
I look forward to reading it.
The fiercest of a royal line of Russian dragon shifters, Rurik Barinov spends most days defending his family’s homeland from rival clans. By night, sins of the flesh — drinking, dancing, and sex — keep his volatile warrior dragon in check. Barely.
With his choice of mortal women to bed, he has no interest in changing his bad-boy ways — until a creature of molten sex poured into a tiny red satin dress steps into his nightclub. A jagged edge of raw desire nicks the impenetrable armor around his heart.
Charlotte MacQueen has been told since childhood to stay in school, live a normal life. Leave the family business — hunting down dragons — to her brothers. But tonight, she’s shed her chemist’s lab coat and infiltrated enemy lines to bag a dragon of her own.
She never expected sexy, all-too-wicked Rurik Barinov to capture her, body and soul — the perfect weapon to use against her brothers. Or that she’d fall for the brave, battle-scarred dragon shifter who covets her heart like the most precious of jewels.
Twilight meets Games of Thrones in this hot new dragonshifter romance by USA Today Bestselling author Lauren Smith!
My Thoughts:
I loved this third book of the series as much if not more than Grigori and Mikhail's stories.
I finished reading it in two sittings. I probably would have read it in one but work interfered with my reading.
Rurik is the bad boy brother. He owns a nightclub and rides a motorcycle.
He is also the warrior dragon of his family so has spent his life knowing he is destined to not take a mate.
He recently lost a woman he was sure was that destined mate to death so when he meets Charlotte he can't believe his luck. This is the one! His true mate and he can't and won't resist taking her as his own.
There is one big obstacle. Her brothers hunt supernatural beings.
Charlotte has spent her life trying to prove her worth to her brothers.
She has traveled to Russia to accomplish something none of her brother's agents could do.
She intends to capture Rurik and deliver him to the brotherhood.
Not everything is going her way though. She is attracted to the shape shifter like no man before.
Can Rurik and Charlotte overcome the obvious obstacles standing in the way of their love and happily ever after or will Charlotte's humanity spell the end for them both?
I gave this book 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 4.5 of 5.0 flames.
The intimacy between our hero and heroine is hot beyond measure.
Since we thought this was the final book of the series I am thrilled that book four will be coming later this year, The Lost Baranov.
I look forward to reading it.
February 5, 2018
Rurik by Lauren Smith is third in her Brothers of Ash and Fire series. It can easily be read as a stand-alone but the story has more impact when read as part of the series.
Rurik is brother #3, single and not really looking for a mate. As the battle dragon of his family of Russian royal dragons, Rurik was been told from a young age that battle dragons could not afford the liability of a mate and a family, their destiny being rather to keep the rest of the family safe from predators, hunters or discovery.
Charlotte McQueen, sister of the head of the blood hunters, has been forced to lead a sheltered life, protected by her overbearing brothers, from the "dangers" of their roles in protecting and/or policing the supernatural community.
Desperate to prove herself, Charlotte, a biochemist, takes herself to Russia with Rurik in her sights, her goal being to seduce and/or manipulate him by any means necessary into sharing his secrets with her, thus proving her worth to her brothers as a hunter or spy.
Charlotte and Rurik are immediately drawn to each other, the nature of the dragon mate bond none too subtly helping move the process along, but their secrets and dangerous circumstances surrounding the dragons and discovery by Charlotte's family may prove too much for even the strength and secret gifts of the mating bond?
I immediately loved Rurik, and every tiny glimmer of hope that he experienced about his mate made me love him more. I disliked Charlotte's dishonesty (firmly planted on the side of Team Dragon here!), but I soon came to understand and sympathize with Charlotte's conflict, her need to prove herself battling with her growing feelings for Rurik.
This is another superb read from Lauren Smith. As always, Smith adroitly (and successfully) makes the reader cheer for her hero and heroine and dislike her villains. Make room for this one on your shelves and/or Kindles, because it's a keeper!
(I reviewed an ARC of this book.)
Rurik is brother #3, single and not really looking for a mate. As the battle dragon of his family of Russian royal dragons, Rurik was been told from a young age that battle dragons could not afford the liability of a mate and a family, their destiny being rather to keep the rest of the family safe from predators, hunters or discovery.
Charlotte McQueen, sister of the head of the blood hunters, has been forced to lead a sheltered life, protected by her overbearing brothers, from the "dangers" of their roles in protecting and/or policing the supernatural community.
Desperate to prove herself, Charlotte, a biochemist, takes herself to Russia with Rurik in her sights, her goal being to seduce and/or manipulate him by any means necessary into sharing his secrets with her, thus proving her worth to her brothers as a hunter or spy.
Charlotte and Rurik are immediately drawn to each other, the nature of the dragon mate bond none too subtly helping move the process along, but their secrets and dangerous circumstances surrounding the dragons and discovery by Charlotte's family may prove too much for even the strength and secret gifts of the mating bond?
I immediately loved Rurik, and every tiny glimmer of hope that he experienced about his mate made me love him more. I disliked Charlotte's dishonesty (firmly planted on the side of Team Dragon here!), but I soon came to understand and sympathize with Charlotte's conflict, her need to prove herself battling with her growing feelings for Rurik.
This is another superb read from Lauren Smith. As always, Smith adroitly (and successfully) makes the reader cheer for her hero and heroine and dislike her villains. Make room for this one on your shelves and/or Kindles, because it's a keeper!
(I reviewed an ARC of this book.)
May 5, 2025
wow this book was so good I absolutely love this series and I'm sad that there's only one book left I hope she does more with this seriously Charlotte is a sister to the leader of the Brotherhood who is a team of hunters of paranormal creatures but like she says her brother has always been trying to make peace with paranormal creatures and not kill them however protective brother mode kind of Trumps that a little bit yeah I kind of takes that a bit too far also her other brother but I actually thought like a big war was going to come but it's very interesting what happens I like it and it reminds me of the winter King by S E Wilson or CE Wilson but rurik is kind of trying to see if he can refuse his mate and just resist her but it's very difficult but actually Charlotte is a biochemist her brothers have refused to let her be in the Brotherhood and she decides to take matters in her own hands and thinks that she can try out this new formula on the dragons in Russia so she ends up going to Russia but that's where her original plan fails because she realizes that she just can't do it because he's such a remarkable beautiful and interesting and fascinating person and that's what love is all about right however once her intentions become clear she has to basically defend herself to him and his family that she doesn't have any bad intentions it's kind of like Romeo and Juliet a little bit if you think about it it's two totally different families and conflicting families I mean you couldn't really get much more opposite families than the Brotherhood versus dragon shifters who have been known enemies for centuries in the situation so the book is very suspenseful very exciting very just an awesome all-around definitely recommend it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2018
Ooh la la…this one is good and hot!
Rurik Barinov is a rich club owner who also happens to be a dragon shifter. Charlotte MacQueen is a biochemist who happens to be sister of the head of the “Brotherhood” a secret organization of supernatural hunters. Just to clear not a lot of trust exists between dragon shifters and the Brotherhood. When Rurik and Charlotte meet the sparks fly. They have a lot to overcome and their story drew me in.
I’m more of a historical romance reader not a paranormal romance reader but I love this series. There are three brothers, Grigori, Mikhail and Rurik. Hot, Sexy, Rich and Russian. This is Rurik’s story he is the youngest of the brothers and his role in the family is to be the battle dragon. His Father told him long ago he could never mate. If a dragon mates and his mate dies, then he dies. The family would be left without a battle dragon to protect them if Rurik dies.
Charlotte’s parents die when she was young, so she was raised by her two older brothers. They went to great lengths to make sure she was safe but they never let her live. She sneaks off to Russia to prove to her brothers that she can work for the Brotherhood. Reading about Rurik in a file is one thing but the reality of meeting him was like nothing she ever could have ever predicted.
I’m a Lauren Smith fan. I like how she writes her characters. They are grownups and while being together is not an easy road they communicate. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rurik Barinov is a rich club owner who also happens to be a dragon shifter. Charlotte MacQueen is a biochemist who happens to be sister of the head of the “Brotherhood” a secret organization of supernatural hunters. Just to clear not a lot of trust exists between dragon shifters and the Brotherhood. When Rurik and Charlotte meet the sparks fly. They have a lot to overcome and their story drew me in.
I’m more of a historical romance reader not a paranormal romance reader but I love this series. There are three brothers, Grigori, Mikhail and Rurik. Hot, Sexy, Rich and Russian. This is Rurik’s story he is the youngest of the brothers and his role in the family is to be the battle dragon. His Father told him long ago he could never mate. If a dragon mates and his mate dies, then he dies. The family would be left without a battle dragon to protect them if Rurik dies.
Charlotte’s parents die when she was young, so she was raised by her two older brothers. They went to great lengths to make sure she was safe but they never let her live. She sneaks off to Russia to prove to her brothers that she can work for the Brotherhood. Reading about Rurik in a file is one thing but the reality of meeting him was like nothing she ever could have ever predicted.
I’m a Lauren Smith fan. I like how she writes her characters. They are grownups and while being together is not an easy road they communicate. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2018
Rurik has long since accepted the fact that he will never have a mate. Too much is riding on his focus and his life- having a mate would just distract him and give his enemies something to use against him. But when he meets Charlotte there is something that draws both him and his dragon. Charlotte has her own reasons for holding back. How do you tell your new dragon friend that your brothers run the organization that has hunted them for generations? And furthermore – is that something that can get past?
I had not read the previous two books before this one so this could be read as a standalone. However we get to catch up with the two brothers and their mates so I wish I had read them, just to know their story. I have read other Lauren Smith books and have loved her style of writing. She can get the reader hooked into a story right in the first chapter and before you know it the book will be over & you’ll be wishing for more. The romance between Rurik and Charlotte was hot, it was realistic (besides him being s dragon but who doesn’t love some paranormal in their romances?), and it was so sweet – all great aspects that come together to make an impressive read. It was a fairly quick read but the length wasn’t too short. Overall I give this book 4 stars – and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a hot and steamy romance.
**4 Stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
I had not read the previous two books before this one so this could be read as a standalone. However we get to catch up with the two brothers and their mates so I wish I had read them, just to know their story. I have read other Lauren Smith books and have loved her style of writing. She can get the reader hooked into a story right in the first chapter and before you know it the book will be over & you’ll be wishing for more. The romance between Rurik and Charlotte was hot, it was realistic (besides him being s dragon but who doesn’t love some paranormal in their romances?), and it was so sweet – all great aspects that come together to make an impressive read. It was a fairly quick read but the length wasn’t too short. Overall I give this book 4 stars – and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a hot and steamy romance.
**4 Stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
February 26, 2018
This is the story of Rurik Barinov, the fiercest of a royal line of Russian dragon shifters who tries to keep his volatile warrior dragon in check. He spends his time defending his family from rival clans and his free time as a night club owner. Charlotte MacQueen’s brothers Jason and Damien is the leader of the Brotherhood that hunted dragons and other creatures for centuries, trying to protect humans and keep an order, her brother’s haven’t been letting her be a part of the family business of hunting dragons. Charlotte MacQueen walk into Rurik’s club on a dragon hunt to prove to her brothers she can bring in the Rurik, one dragon they haven’t been able to. Rurik is instantly attracted to the virgin Charlotte, but he knows he’s the guard and fighter for the family and he can’t let Charlotte weaken, he can’t forget the family‘s protection is in his hands. He’s a dragon shifter and she’s the sister of the Brotherhood leader. Needless to say neither trust the other, but the chemistry between them is undeniable and the passions sizzles as they fight their feeling before the reach the point of no return. The Romeo and Juliet effects of this story added a forbidden ingredient to this story that I thoroughly loved!!! This is my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
March 4, 2018
Finally, the battle dragon of the family falls for a mate. As with all previous descriptions of true mates, this one is intense, burning brightly and growing quickly. I liked Rurick from the start and Charlotte makes a good match for him. Like a modern-day, paranormal Romeo and Juliet, Rurick and Charlotte must find a way to make this work lest they face death.
One of the things I really liked about this book, and the others in the series, was the use of literary quotes at the beginning of each chapter. One of my favorites was this one: “I had forgotten how much light there is in the world, till you gave it back to me.” - Ursula K. Le Guin.
I received an ARC of this book because I loved the two previous books in the series and I expressed a strong interest in reading and reviewing this one. I enjoyed this one just as much and was sad to think this might be the last book in the series. However, I was happy to see at the end, that there is another book on the horizon. I can't help but wonder why Charlotte touched her belly a couple of times in the final chapter of the book, and I wonder if this might have some bearing on the next story.
One of the things I really liked about this book, and the others in the series, was the use of literary quotes at the beginning of each chapter. One of my favorites was this one: “I had forgotten how much light there is in the world, till you gave it back to me.” - Ursula K. Le Guin.
I received an ARC of this book because I loved the two previous books in the series and I expressed a strong interest in reading and reviewing this one. I enjoyed this one just as much and was sad to think this might be the last book in the series. However, I was happy to see at the end, that there is another book on the horizon. I can't help but wonder why Charlotte touched her belly a couple of times in the final chapter of the book, and I wonder if this might have some bearing on the next story.
February 7, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
Oh how I love these books.
Before Lauren’s Royal Dragon series you would not have got me near a dragon shifter book , I’m so pleased to say that has all changed.
This book, Rurik , is the third in this series, and is just as great as the first two , make sure you read them in order they make much more sense.
Rurik meets Charlotte when she visits his club in Russia , they instantly have a massive attraction to one another, that builds into an awesome love , one so strong nothing can come between them , not even Charlotte’s brothers .
Damien and Jason are part of the Brotherhood , in short dragon hunters , they are going to be so annoyed when they find their baby sister has sneaked away to meet Rurik .
Even more so when they discover the bond the two have , throw in rival dragons , a serum that blocks dragons from changing , and a romantic visit to a Russian palace in the snow , you can’t get a more spellbinding read .
I need more please
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
💋💋💋
Oh how I love these books.
Before Lauren’s Royal Dragon series you would not have got me near a dragon shifter book , I’m so pleased to say that has all changed.
This book, Rurik , is the third in this series, and is just as great as the first two , make sure you read them in order they make much more sense.
Rurik meets Charlotte when she visits his club in Russia , they instantly have a massive attraction to one another, that builds into an awesome love , one so strong nothing can come between them , not even Charlotte’s brothers .
Damien and Jason are part of the Brotherhood , in short dragon hunters , they are going to be so annoyed when they find their baby sister has sneaked away to meet Rurik .
Even more so when they discover the bond the two have , throw in rival dragons , a serum that blocks dragons from changing , and a romantic visit to a Russian palace in the snow , you can’t get a more spellbinding read .
I need more please
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
February 10, 2018
Rurik Barinov’s the fiercest of a royal line of Russian dragon shifters, he’s been brought up to be the warrior dragon who defends his brothers. Charlotte MacQueen has been told since childhood to stay in school, live a normal life. Leave the family business—hunting down dragons—to her brothers.
Charlotte has travelled to Moscow to hunt a dragon but never expected Rurik to rescue her from some louts. Neither of them expected their attraction to be so strong.
This is the third book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own why would you when starting from the beginning draws you into the Barinov world. I’m not a lover of dragon & shifter books but I love the author's other books & decided to try these & I’m hooked. The pace is fast, furious & breath taking at times, the characters so very well fleshed. I loved Rurik & Charlotte their attraction so strong, I wanted so much for her to find a way to become immortal too. A roller coaster of a read with warring families, rogue dragons & misunderstandings.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Charlotte has travelled to Moscow to hunt a dragon but never expected Rurik to rescue her from some louts. Neither of them expected their attraction to be so strong.
This is the third book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own why would you when starting from the beginning draws you into the Barinov world. I’m not a lover of dragon & shifter books but I love the author's other books & decided to try these & I’m hooked. The pace is fast, furious & breath taking at times, the characters so very well fleshed. I loved Rurik & Charlotte their attraction so strong, I wanted so much for her to find a way to become immortal too. A roller coaster of a read with warring families, rogue dragons & misunderstandings.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
February 22, 2018
My favorite of the series so far. My heart was broken as the author made me relive watching Rurik lose his love interest in the fight with the younger Drakon. It was fun watching the battle dragon start to melt in the arms of the scientist.
The clash of Brotherhood and dragons after it's discovered that his mate is none other than the baby sister of the McQueen brothers who run the organization that one hunted and now is trying to police the supernatural community. It's nice to see they've changed from what the brothers grew up knowing into a more "just keep the humans and supers apart" type group.
The stunning ending had me on the very edge of my seat from the moment of impact until the last words.
My only complaint was that after the end it said to read further for a glimpse of the next book The Last Barinov but my copy was missing the sneak peek.
This is my sixth book with this author and I swear I fall more and more in love with her writing each time I open a new book.
The clash of Brotherhood and dragons after it's discovered that his mate is none other than the baby sister of the McQueen brothers who run the organization that one hunted and now is trying to police the supernatural community. It's nice to see they've changed from what the brothers grew up knowing into a more "just keep the humans and supers apart" type group.
The stunning ending had me on the very edge of my seat from the moment of impact until the last words.
My only complaint was that after the end it said to read further for a glimpse of the next book The Last Barinov but my copy was missing the sneak peek.
This is my sixth book with this author and I swear I fall more and more in love with her writing each time I open a new book.
February 25, 2018
This book is not the typical genre I am used to reading, with that being said, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the writing was flowing and made it easy to enjoy. Rurik Barinov is a Russian club owner but also comes from one of the oldest family of dragons! Yes, dragons! Charlotte MacQueen is a biochemist from the United States, who comes from a family of hunters, not the deer kind of hunters but the SuperNatrual kind of hunters. She embarks on a journey to Russia with a new weapon to subdue dragons so that she can prove to her brothers she is more than just a brain. When Charlotte encounters Rurik, will she stick to the plan or will she get more than she bargained for?? This book is full of adventure, intrigue, love, lust, and loyalty. I would definitely recommend for those who stay in a comfort zone as I do, think outside of the box and give this book a read!
February 21, 2018
HOT WOW. Shifter stories are normally not what I use to read. But this one caught me. I just loved this story. Rurik is sexy, loyal and possessive. The story just caught me until the last page. A story about having each others back and taking chances.
This story has a bit of everything. I like that. It is a romance love story and I liked it very much. Emotional, dramatic and loving story.
Well written story with a nice storyline and plot. I like that the characters and how they develop. A passionate and emotional read with twists. There is passion, a few hot scenes and lots of chemistry in this amazing story.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story has a bit of everything. I like that. It is a romance love story and I liked it very much. Emotional, dramatic and loving story.
Well written story with a nice storyline and plot. I like that the characters and how they develop. A passionate and emotional read with twists. There is passion, a few hot scenes and lots of chemistry in this amazing story.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2018
Initial Thoughts: I continue to enjoy this urban dragon shifter romance series. Rurik and Charlotte's romance was passionate and slow-burning, even with the mating urge spurring both of them. I enjoyed their albeit short but strong romantic journey. It was a very satisfying end for the overall story arc of the Barinov dragon clan. However, I hope there is more to be written in this world. Lucy Rivers was such a convincing narrator, I would forget that a female was narrating for Rurik - the big, bad, dragon shifter. I eagerly look forward to listening to her narration again. Please stay tuned for a link to go to the full review posted at That's What I'm Talking About blog.
June 3, 2018
A dragon and a MacQueen equals “T”rouble.
The baby of the Barinovs-Ruik, falls for the baby of the MacQueens-Charlotte and the results are combustible when East meets West.
Charlotte and Rurik find themselves in the not so surprising position of being wildly attracted to each other although their families have a history to rival the Montagues and the Capulates. More confounding is the fact that Rurik is a Battle Dragon, not meant to fall in love or mate.
“Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero.”—Marc Brown...Not so much when your brother is Damien MacQueen, leader of the dragon-hunting Brotherhood when he finds out his little sister has fallen head over heels for a dragon no less. Unfortunately for Damien, it’s even worse than he imagined.
Fun, energetic and humorous read. Best of the trilogy.
On my We’re Scale of Hotness, 3 stars.
The baby of the Barinovs-Ruik, falls for the baby of the MacQueens-Charlotte and the results are combustible when East meets West.
Charlotte and Rurik find themselves in the not so surprising position of being wildly attracted to each other although their families have a history to rival the Montagues and the Capulates. More confounding is the fact that Rurik is a Battle Dragon, not meant to fall in love or mate.
“Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero.”—Marc Brown...Not so much when your brother is Damien MacQueen, leader of the dragon-hunting Brotherhood when he finds out his little sister has fallen head over heels for a dragon no less. Unfortunately for Damien, it’s even worse than he imagined.
Fun, energetic and humorous read. Best of the trilogy.
On my We’re Scale of Hotness, 3 stars.
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