I’ve fallen headfirst into the world of Blood & Steel and with Vows & Ruins I was on the floor. I cannot wait for the next, I’ve already bought the audiobook and will be treating myself soon! Keep reading this book review of Vows & Ruins for my full thoughts.
Summary
Against all odds, Althea Zoltaire emerged from her trials as a champion. Now, she must train even harder and prepare herself to become a true warrior of Thezmarr.
But Thea’s world is turned upside down as she struggles to navigate her newfound magic and uncover the secrets of her past. Slowly, she begins to untangle the truth about her family, her powers and the evil that threatens to engulf the kingdom.
When Wilder Hawthorne returns to be her official mentor, everything changes. Dark forces are gathering, and he will stop at nothing to prepare her for the challenges to come, even if it means breaking her.
As war looms and their quest for answers leads master and apprentice deeper into danger, the undeniable connection between them intensifies – defying all odds, but also threatening to tear them apart.
With secrets unravelling and evil closing in, Thea and Wilder fight to save the world, and each other. The fate of the realms rests in their hands – will they emerge victorious, or will the darkness consume them both?
Review

I love the pacing of Vows & Ruins. It feels expansive without being drawn out. If you love chemistry and spice – this one has WAY more spice – then you have to continue this series. There’s this will they won’t they vibe while also realizing that time is short. With a steady plot line, Vows & Ruins continually captivates me. I’m not sure what it is about Wilder and Thea, but I love Thea’s spirit. And the revelations here? Jaw on the floor. I listened to this on audiobook, which might have impacted my perception of the pacing.
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I’ve read reviews where they said it was slow and while I agree in comparison to Blood & Steel, there’s a slower start, I had such a fun time here. It’s for everyone who tries to control the storm within us, who feels fate knocking and is afraid of running. There’s more to meet the eye with everyone and the ending?? I am so invested in this series and there’s no going back. Find Vows & Ruins on Goodreads, Storygraph, Amazon, Bookshop.org, Blackwells, & Libro. fm.