I love a good slow-burn enemies-to-lovers story, and I’m so glad I stumbled across this one on Instagram as it pulled me right out of my reading slump.

At over 600 pages, it could’ve easily dragged, but it never did. The worldbuilding is rich, the pacing stayed strong, and I was fully invested in Aella and Darrow the whole way through with their chemistry and love story.

Can’t wait to continue with the rest of the series!

E-ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

This is going to hit the mark for so many, and im excited for this to find the right people! Unfortunately, this missed the mark for me.

My main issues were the pacing, repetitiveness, and I really dont enjoy 'enemies to lovers' if they're not actually enemies. I found the MMC to be lacking in depth with his most forward traits seeming to be lust and brooding, which can be fun when done right! I just dont want that to be the extent of his personality. I also wish that there were more incidents of showing rather than telling, there's a lot of internal monologue used to fill in the gaps.

Things I liked: the FMC and MMC are over 30, dual POV, fantasy world building,

Overall, I found this to be a bit too YA and too easily solved for me, this will definitely be for some people but I needed a bit more.

2.75⭐️ rounded up to 3.

Thank you to Susan Illene and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book!

4.5 stars

Oaths and Vengeance by Susan Illene is an immersive & engaging read that drew me in from the very beginning. The author has created a vivid world filled with a unique magical system & a fascinating array of creatures that made the setting feel fully alive and well developed.

The protagonist is a standout element of the story. She is strong not only in magical ability but also in her mental resilience & determination, offering a refreshing take on the typical fantasy heroine. Her depth and authenticity made her journey all the more compelling.

I also greatly enjoyed the slow-burn romance woven throughout the narrative. The dynamic between the FMC & MMC was built with care & tension, making every interaction between them something to anticipate & savour. Their chemistry added another layer of richness to the plot without overshadowing the broader story.

Oaths and Vengeance is a strong & highly enjoyable addition to the genre. I would recommend it to readers who appreciate well crafted fantasy worlds, complex characters, & romance that develops with satisfying subtlety. I am very much looking forward to continuing this series

Holy crap I was totally blind sided by this 5⭐️ read. I received an ARC for Oaths & Vengeance - this was my first time reading anything by this author and this book had me up reading until 4a. I literally couldn’t put it down. Also, this is probably a 2.5-3 on the 🌶️ scale 😉

Tropes
- Secret marriage
- Slow burn romance
- Enemies to lovers
- Political intrigue
- Fated Mates
- Cursed MMC & FMC
- Unique magic system

Spoliers below so stop reading this review if you haven't read the book yet.


Our FMC is a half elf half druid and lives with her uncle who is a Lord, and she is forced to use her powers to open portals to transport his troops for battles. He is forcing her to get married to one of his friends that will continue to let him use her for her powers. The MMC is a ruthless and powerful half dark elf that heads the troops for an opposing area. Their realms are at war and in addition to that, their world is slowly being drained of its magic. Her mom was on a quest to find the Naforya Fountain that is supposedly the key to save their planet but she didn’t survive. The book takes us on a slow burn enemies to lovers quest to help save their planet, but along the way there are battles, obstacles, tests of strength and powers, growing friendships and betrayals by family. The book ends on a cliffhanger and I’m desperately waiting for book 2! The way I devoured this book, makes me want to read her other series.

This book was okay. I do think that I didn't enjoy it more than I did. I will say that I did enjoy the pacing of the book though. I felt that the characters had not a ton of development and I also thought the plot fell short in several places. The romance wasn't my favorite and it all felt a little rushed. The writing was style also made it hard for me to read the book.

I absolutely loved this true enemies-to-lovers story.
The plot was superb and well written, and the world-building was both vast and original, especially with the addition of the portals. I really enjoyed Aella's character being half-druid and deeply connected to nature made her feel unique and compelling.

And what can I say about Darrow? He's a surprising and endearing character, a perfect book boyfriend with just the right mix of darkness and softness.

There are plenty of twists and unexpected turns, with a well-balanced dose of intrigue and secrets. It's the kind of book you fly through effortlessly, and it leaves you eager for the sequel.

Just a heads-up: it ends on a cliffhanger!

Thank you to the author, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and NetGalley for providing the ARC! This is all my honest opinion and review of the book.

Oath and Vengeance by Susan Illene was such a fun read for me! Had it not been for work, I would’ve devoured it in a single day. The world-building, history, and magic system were fascinating throughout the book, and I’m excited to see how she expands on it in the next one.

The story begins with the FMC, Aella, tending to her garden—and let me just say: OMG! I loved her sentient plants. The constant love and care she gives them is like someone caring for family. I adored how protective she is of them—and how protective they are of her in return. I won’t spoil what I mean, but you’ll see it later in the story.

The setting spans different planets and realms filled with magic and various races. Aella is half-light elf and half-druid, and her mixed heritage gives her a powerful edge with unique magical abilities from both bloodlines. She’s an exceptionally strong portal channeler, which plays a crucial role in the story. Despite enduring many hardships, she’s stayed true to her morals and inner strength.

”He was unlike any other man I’d seen before, with startlingly good looks that should have been criminal. His state-gray eyes stared at me as if he could penetrate my soul. He had firm, high cheekbones and strong jaw that might as well have been carved from stone. His skin was a light, sandy color, indicating that he had seena decent amount fo sun, but I couldn’t recognize the shade as being common anywhere. At best guess, that was because he was half-light and half-dark elf.”

Our MMC, Dare, can be so frustrating at times. Like—man, I get it, your family is cursed and you can’t feel love. But it plays directly into the emotional dynamics of both the MMC and FMC’s journeys. The two first meet on the battlefield between Therress and Veronna. Their families are kind of a Romeo-and-Juliet situation—rivals with a long-standing blood feud.

”He ran his gaze around his surroundings until it eventually fell on me. I waved and below him a kiss. It was hard to tell his expression, but I couldn’t miss the kiss he blew toward me, especially since I felt the lightest touch on my cheek.”

To save a particular family member (and I use the word “family” very loosely—her relationships are complicated), Allea enters into a contract marriage with Dare.

“You’re only demanding I do that because I said I’d rather touch a sea serpent.
I knew you were lying.
I hate you.
Any yet, you still want me.

There are so many twists and turns: betrayal, political intrigue, and OMG—such a slow burn romance. Then that ending! Some parts dragged a little, but overall, I’m so looking forward to the next book. This was a solid 4.5-star read for me.

”It’s not arrogance. The more you touch me, the more determined I am to make you mine in every possible way, so your loyalties lie with no one except me.”

Slow burn
Dual POV
Mythical creatures
Fae court political intrigues
Secret marriages
Enemies to lovers
Cursed FMC/MMC
Fated mates

#romantasy #netgalley #fatedmates #susanillene #oathsandvengeance

A marriage of convenience between two enemies makes for interesting story with many secrets to be discovered along the way! Aella keeping secrets from her awful family members. Darrow keeping secrets from his new wife, who he swears will be nothing more than a wife of convenience... that is until he learns he can trust her.

One thing I do wish is we got to see more of Aellas cousin but I anticipate we may see that change in the next book of this series. I hope we got more garden time because the garden deserves a praise of its own!


This story was written very well! The Dual POVs were great in this book and I enjoyed getting to learn more about the FMC and MMC throughout the story. I cannot wait for book 2 so we can uncover more secrets and learn who can be trusted.

If you enjoy romantasy with some spice and action this should definitely be your next read.

Enemies to lovers with a secret marriage, a cursed couple, and a sentient man-eating garden? I devoured every page.

I cannot express how much I love this book. I’m honestly devastated that I can’t binge-read the whole series right now—it’s just that good.

The story follows Aella, who strikes a desperate bargain with the enemy’s second son, Darrow, to save her cousin from execution. Her offer? To use her rare portal magic for his kingdom. But Darrow isn’t one to take chances—he insists on marrying her so no one else can claim her power. Unfortunately, thanks to her uncle and guardian (who has magically bound her to him), Aella’s powers are still being used against Darrow’s kingdom. With the king secretly officiating their marriage, their union must remain hidden until they can sever her uncle’s hold over her. And that’s only the beginning—being Darrow’s wife brings new dangers from all sides.

This book is superb. The worldbuilding is lush, layered, and breathtakingly detailed. Every creature, plant, and magical being is described so vividly that I could picture myself walking among them. The depth of the character backstories makes them feel like real people you’ve known for years—and can I just say how refreshing it is to have a 30+ year-old FMC? I was all for it.

The romance is the perfect kind of slow burn—true enemies to lovers. At first, Aella and Darrow’s distrust crackles between them, but their banter had me giggling and squealing. Aella is mature, self-aware, and unafraid to voice her concerns, which made her so relatable. Even without full trust, their fierce protectiveness toward each other shines through—especially in those “touch her and 💀” moments. Yes, I squealed multiple times.

And the sentient garden? My absolute favorite. Imagine man-eating plants that would die to protect you—I’d happily be their gardener in a heartbeat.

I couldn’t put this book down, and you can bet I’ll be devouring the rest of the series the moment the next installment drops.

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Tropes:
• Enemies to lovers
• Slow burn
• Secret marriage / marriage of convenience
• Fated mates
• Powerful FMC
• Protective MMC
• Morally grey MMC
• “Touch her and 💀”
• “My wife” moments
• “Who did this to you?”
• Cursed MMC & FMC

Thank you @NetGalley and Susan Illene for the ARC!

Like a sentient plant, this book grabbed me and refused to let go.
Our FMC, Aella is a half elf half druid who has portal magic. She's forced to use her magic to transport her uncle's forces to continue to wage war on our MMC, Darrow's territory. When trying to save her young cousin's life, she's forced to reach out to the only person capable which happens to be her enemy. The price is a secret marriage and the use of her portal abilities.

I couldn't get enough of this book. The story was intriguing and multi faceted. There's more than just the main characters tension filled stories. There's lots of secrets, spies and world issues that will have you wondering what's going to happen next. I can't wait to continue this series

Thank you NetGalley for the advanced reading opportunity. These thoughts are my own.

Who knew I needed man-eating plants in a book about magic, war, love and saving the world?!

I raced through this book and enjoyed every second of it. The 30-something FMC was really refreshing. Old enough to know her own mind and have a backbone but still young enough to get away with moments of vulnerability and naivety. The character growth between the FMC and the MMC is brilliant.
The world is well thought out, easily imaginable and very diverse. The slow burn is exactly what you ask for and the possessiveness that creeps in had me curling my toes!
I loved it. I cannot wait for book 2!

Thank you to Netgally and Susan Illene for the ARC of this book

This book grabbed my attention right from the start!
The world building was amazing and I loved how descriptive everything was, it made it easy to understand the intricate world the book was set in. I especially loved the unique magic system and the magical creatures. Both Aella and Darrow are strong main characters whose personalities and backstories were well developed. The book had a balanced blend of romance and fantasy that I enjoyed.

4.25 ⭐ (Wanted more romantic moments but understandable why not yet)

I enjoyed this one so much! The magic and world-building felt fresh and unique, which made the story that more enjoyable. I especially love the twist of the MMC being incapable of love. It made me wonder how the romance could possibly work.

Let's start with what it's about. Aella and Darrow are enemies on opposite sides of a war. Aella finds herself in a dilemma when she needs to save someone she loves, and the only option is to get Darrow's help. She offers her magical services in exchange, but what his counteroffer is not what she expects: a secret marriage. They strike a business arrangement, each free to live separate lives as long as no one learns the truth.

Darrow is such a complex character. Because he is unable to feel deep love, he comes across as cold and calculating. Aella is free to be with whomever she wants so long as she keeps their marriage a secret. But Darrow begins to feel an undeniable pull toward her, growing possessive and protective without understanding why. There are secrets he's hiding that make you question what his ulterior motives are, and I'm dying to find out in the next book (hopefully).

I really loved our FMC Aella. She's endured so much suffering, yet remains resilient, kind, and protective. She’s powerful—and still learning just how powerful she really is—despite those who try to diminish her. I found it funny how frustrated she was with all these secrets people were keeping from her, but for me, it made those reveals all the more exciting and surprising. She also doesn't want to catch feelings for Darrow because he can't reciprocate them, but that doesn't stop her from being drawn to him.

I adore how unconventional their romance is. It makes the payoff feel extra satisfying. I was giddy whenever they thought of each other as "my wife" and "my husband". Usually, in a marriage of convenience, enemies-to-lovers setup, they stick to their first names, but nope, not Darrow and Aella, and I ate it up.

One of my favorite side elements was Aella's sentient plants. Her garden is full of them, each with its own personality. They're temperamental if disrespected. As their caregiver, she is tolerated but also protected by them because of how well she takes care of them. I'm hoping because of how much of an important role they play in Aella's life, they'll play an even bigger role later in the series .

And yes, there is a found family element too. It doesn't develop until later in the story. When Aella finally earns Darrow's inner circle's trust, they start to accept her as one of their own. I can't wait to see what shenanigans they get up to in the next book.

I usually hate cliffhangers where they end in an "OMG!" moment because I'm impatient waiting for the next book to come out to see what happens, but this one didn't frustrate me. I'm excited to continue this series. According to the author, the next book is expected to be released later this year, so I don't have to wait long. Yayy!!!

✨Slow burn
✨Enemies-to-lovers
✨Secret marriage
✨Marriage of convenience
✨Morally Grey MMC in his 40's
✨Powerful FMC in her 30's
✨Elves, fae, druids, magical creatures
✨Found family

First thoughts:

I’m obsessed.

I was about 30% into Oaths & Vengeance when I came to the abrupt realization that I was REALLY enjoying this book! I have to admit I wasn't quite sure about it right away. My anger at the men in this book was what kept me reading in the beginning. So many of them are truly terrible. Surprisingly, the only man I really liked right away was the one with an inability to love. Go figure. But I had a good feeling about it as soon as I read the dedication.

This book is long, but in the best way. I couldn't put it down. Aella and Darrow are the definition of enemies to lovers. They are from rival lands who constantly attack one another. When her cousin's life is in jeopardy, Aella must, very reluctantly, go to Darrow for help. He agrees, with conditions. Ones that will change her life forever.

Oaths & Vengeance is the first book I've read in a while that has gotten me really excited about this genre. I can't WAIT to read book 2 and am so grateful for the opportunity to read this one. Thanks so much to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this ARC!

Read my full review on my website!

4.5⭐
This is giving "next big romantasy hit" energy - rich world building, slow-burn tension, and a heroine worth rooting for. I need book two immediately.

Oaths & Vengeance delightfully exceeded my expectations. I devoured this book and truly didn't want it to end. This is an enthrallingly epic story - layered with mystery, secrets, court politics, secret marriage, and adventure - and it's only just beginning!

One of the biggest standouts for me was the story's originality. The plot doesn't follow any predictable formula, so I loved having no idea where we'd end up next. The magical world is rich and complex, filled with fascinating creatures, layered history, and... a sentient murder garden. What?? Yes - and it was awesome. 🪴💀

Also? Mature main characters! Finally. Aella is in her 30's, Darrow's in his 40's, so there's no tired "500-year-old man falling for a 20-year-old" nonsense. Aella is already powerful when we meet her, so her arc isn't about figuring out her powers - it's about adapting to her evolving understanding of the world and finding the guts to do what's right, even when her options are basically "bad" or "worse." Despite her tragic life, she's compassionate, selfless, strong and actually thinks through the consequences of her actions. Love her. ❤️

Darrow starts out as playful arrogance wrapped in charm... but honestly some of his early cringey lines made me want to throw him in the sentient murder garden. 🤦🏼‍♀️ That said, even with the rocky start in his dialogue, over time, he reveals himself to be a layered, protective, deeply caring and likable character. ❤️‍🔥 His POV chapters struck the perfect balance: enough insight into his inner conflicts to add depth without over-explaining and diminishing his allure.

Tropes? We've got enemies-to-lovers and secret marriage, so yes, the slow-burn banter and tension are immaculate. Even with the cringe in the beginning, their relationship actually feels earned. I'm invested.

The side characters? Solid. Totally want to know more about them. Darrow's inner circle isn't quite giving "found family" vibes yet, but it feels like it's building - and I'm here for it.

So why only 4.5⭐? Now for my tiny gripes:
*The dialogue was a bit rough - some cringey lines, choppy exchanges, and inner monologues that circled the same emotional points too often.
*The writing overall isn't the most eloquent (but the worldbuilding is still impressively strong)
*The political conflict felt thin - why is the king fine with mass destruction and loss of life between territories, yet so severe when it comes to the death of a lord? Make it make sense.
*Lastly, for something as rare as the "true mates" bond, its revelation and eventual bonding felt surprisingly understated.

That said, none of it stopped me from absolutely loving this ride. This is a fresh, captivating romantasy with an expansive world, a heroine worth rooting for, and a romance I want way more of. Book two, please and thank you.

✨ My sincerest gratitude to Susan Illene and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review. ✨

⭐⭐⭐✨☆ (3.5 stars)
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Oaths & Vengeance had so many refreshing elements that caught my attention right away. Aella, our FMC, is a half-elf, half-druid in her thirties who works with plants and wields portal magic—a combination that feels both grounded and unique. Darrow, the half–dark elf MMC, is nearly 50, which was such a welcome twist from the usual romantasy ages. From the early battle-meet-cute to the unusual “marriage of necessity” (chosen for her own reasons, not forced by circumstance), their dynamic was a strong hook.

Aella is capable, self-assured, and unafraid to stand up to Darrow—or his equally formidable sister—using her own power. I loved that her strength didn’t come from trickery or manipulation, but from knowing exactly what she can do.

The worldbuilding is big and ambitious—multiple countries, realms, and magical systems—and without the romance subplot, it edges toward epic fantasy territory. I especially enjoyed the creativity of rune-addressed portal circles, sentient plants, dragons, and mystical creatures like leprechauns and wisps. But while the scale is impressive, the execution sometimes felt too passive. Locations, politics, and even high-stakes moments were often introduced quickly and without much emotional layering, which made it harder to fully immerse myself in the setting.

The writing style reads almost like a memoir: minimal dialogue, heavy narration, and a tendency to tell rather than show. While this provides clarity, it also distances the reader from the characters’ emotions. Certain beats—like the true mates reveal and romantic scenes—felt more factual than emotionally charged. I wanted to feel those moments, not just read them.

That said, there were moments that really shone: Aella’s punishment by her family was dark and powerful, the plant battle was wonderfully creative, and Darrow’s secret teleportation ability added an unexpected twist. The ending sets up book two with plenty of intrigue, even if the final exchange of a note felt a little subdued for such a sprawling, high-stakes setup.

A creative, unique romantasy with mature leads, intriguing magic, and plenty of potential for the series to grow.

Favorite quotes:
“Try not to dream of me, will you?” – Darrow
“I vow to all the nameless ones that I will have you—mind, body, and soul, Aella.” – Darrow
“She was mine to keep safe, and I was failing her.” – Darrow

I appreciate the opportunity to read this but unfortunately I will not be finishing it.

I really liked Aella and her sentient garden but I did not care for Darrow as a character. It felt like he kept pushing past her saying no to get what he wanted far too many times.

Wow. I don’t think I was fully prepared for what Oaths & Vengeance would do to me. This book was more than just a fantasy, it was a storm of emotion, and I was caught in the middle of it with no way out.

And honestly? I didn’t want one.

Aella completely stole my heart. She’s this fierce, stubborn force of nature, but also so gentle and humble in ways that hit me unexpectedly. Her Dryad powers aren’t just magic, they’re a reflection of who she is. Her connection to the plants in her garden, the way she speaks to them and draws strength from the earth.... I felt like I was right there with her, breathing it all in. That garden? I fell in love with it. It was like her secret world of healing and hope in the middle of so much darkness.

And the pain, gods, the pain she goes through. Her uncle and cousin put her through things no one should have to endure. It shattered something inside me. I don’t cry easily, but the quiet way she bore it all, the loneliness, the fear, the shame. There were moments I had to stop reading just to feel. And yet, somehow, she still found the strength to fight. That kind of resilience stays with you.

Then there’s Darrow.
Cold.
Beautiful.
Dangerous.
Mysterious.

He stepped onto the page like a stormcloud with eyes, and I couldn’t look away. I should’ve been scared and I was, but he fascinated me. His presence is dark, commanding, and yet beneath that intimidating shell, you could feel something unraveling. And the banter between him and Aella? I swear I was grinning like a fool. Their chemistry is electric, sharp and witty one moment, smoldering the next.

She challenged him. He noticed her. And it wasn’t instant love, it was undeniable pull. The kind of tension that coils in your stomach and makes your heart race. Their connection felt like something written in blood and magic; messy, cursed, but inevitable. And isn’t that the best kind?

I flew through the pages, completely devoured by this world. And when it ended? I just sat there. Staring. Reeling. Desperate.
Because I am not ready to let go of these characters. Not even close.

The way it ended…. let’s just say my soul is pacing, and I’m counting down the days until the next book drops. Susan Illene, please, I need answers. I need more Aella. More Darrow. More of the dark, dangerous beauty you created.

Until then, I’ll just be here.… emotionally unwell and waiting.

YES! This MC is older than they typically are, and she makes such rational decisions. I am so happy about this.

A solid start to the series!

I liked the main characters, especially Aella, who got to shine with her courage, spirit and skills. The scary protective garden was a super awesome detail in a world full of different nations and politics and the grudges between them.

P.S. the book brought back memories of the great Stargate TV series, which I need to find and start watching again.

My rating is 3.5 stars. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the early review copy.