⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5-Star-Read

I didn’t expect to be quite so enthralled by this book—but it surprised me in the best possible way.
A layered romantasy with rich world-building and sharp emotional stakes

The story follows Aella, a half-fae, half-Druid young woman whose rare portal-travel ability makes her a strategic pawn in her uncle’s military ambitions. Secretly, Aella’s powers are far stronger than she lets on. In the aftermath of a battlefield encounter, fate forces her to beg Darrow—half-fae, half-dark elf, and heir to a cursed bloodline—for a healer to save her young cousin, the price is steep: a marriage of convenience, and use of her portals at his request.

What begins as a tactical alliance shifts—gradually, then all at once—into something deeper. Darrow, bound by a curse that supposedly renders him incapable of love, finds his carefully constructed emotional distance challenged by jealousy, longing, and Aella’s resilience.

The slow-burn romance is well executed, with a healthy dose of tension and layered dynamics. Their chemistry is built through sharp dialogue and begrudging mutual respect, which seemingly becomes something more though neither of them can yet admit it.

The plot is grounded in high stakes: the search for the mythical Naforya fountain, without which their world will die. The world-building is immersive, detailed, and original—with a particularly compelling depiction of flora and fauna, including a garden where plants seem to have their own intentions (and possibly dragons).

One moment for me: when the nameless god approvingly “good girl”s Aella for choosing the man who caused her heart to race… „Sure, he’ll be an ass and likely frustrate you in many ways, but you’ll always feel alive with him.“

If I have one minor complaint, it’s purely personal: I couldn’t quite place how Darrow smells. No pine, no spice, no rain—did I miss it?

A strong debut start of a series that balances intricate fantasy with real emotional depth. I’ll be first in line for the sequel.

I really enjoyed this book and am interested to see where it goes from here. As silly as it might sound, my favorite part was the fact that the main characters were in their 30s/40s! I feel like I see so many books even when they’re romantasy where the main characters are younger. The characters were easy to like (or dislike) and there was nothing super complicated that was hard to wrap my head around. The magical abilities were interesting, some of which I don’t really see used in a lot of fantasy stories. Very fun and easy read, exactly what I was looking for right now.

I had no idea what to expect from this book and it definitely exceeded my expectations.

The story primarily follows our FMC, Aella, whose portal ability puts her at the mercy of her uncle and his military ambitions. Despite living under her Uncle’s thumb and his mistreatment of her over the years, she remains fierce, determined and does her best to fight for what’s right.

In order to save her cousin, she beseeches our MMC, Darrow, which results in a marriage of convenience. But what begins as a tactical alliance born out of desperation, slowly shifts into something deeper and more meaningful. However, Darrow is bound by a curse that makes him incapable of love but even despite that, he finds himself drawn to her.

Initially it appears that the focus of the book is the two warring factions of elves but as the story develops, it becomes clear that it’s so much more than that.

This is a plot driven book with a side of romance in a high stakes world with rich world building and magical creatures, including some feisty plants.

The slow-burn romance is well executed as this is a true enemies-to-lovers but as the two characters get to know each other better, their relationship morphs into one of mutual respect and then something more.

We also get to experience some of Darrow’s POV which is nice and adds additional depth to his character.

The side characters were fun, there’s witty banter, tension and adventure, insuring there’s never a dull moment.

I can’t wait for book 2!

Aella, a powerful Fae, makes a desperate choice: an eternal, secret marriage to Darrow, a cursed dark fae and her sworn enemy. It’s the only way to save someone she loves—but the cost is steep. As ancient tensions resurface and war looms, Aella finds herself tied to a man with more secrets than she can untangle—and a bond more dangerous than she expected. What begins as a strategic alliance soon turns into something far more tangled, built on reluctant trust and sharp-edged tension.

Told through dual perspectives, the story explores characters who carry the weight of their pasts—and act their age, with battle-worn wisdom and layered emotional depth. Their chemistry unfolds slowly through banter, tension, and a reluctant companionship that grows into something electric. Both Aella and Darrow retain a strong sense of self even as their paths begin to intertwine, and the side characters are equally memorable, each leaving a lasting impact.

The worldbuilding here is exquisite. Illene doesn’t dump information—instead, she unveils her rich, magical world piece by piece, letting you discover its politics, creatures, and curses as naturally as the characters do. Sentient plants, long-buried oaths, and mysterious powers bring texture to a realm that feels both vast and alive. The pacing is tight, the stakes are high, and the plot strikes a strong balance between front story without ever overwhelming the core of the story. It’s plot-driven story—but grounded in its romance.

While the story delivers on many fronts, a few emotional connections are left underexplored—particularly Aella’s bond with the cousin she’s risking everything for. And though the romance arc simmers beautifully, I was hoping for a clearer revelation of the mating bond—something hinted at the start but not fully addressed. The ending, cleverly silent edged, too, holds back just enough to leave you wanting, setting the stage for an even more thrilling sequel.

With scenes that made me laugh, moments that pulled at my heart, and a realm I didn’t want to leave, this fae romantic fantasy is a quiet triumph. One I’ll be following into the next installment.

Ancient curses, forbidden bonds, and a war yet to come—this is only the beginning.

I need the next book, NOW!!

I have not been able to put this book down at all today! It has such a gripping story/plot; it has taken me by surprise! The hatred i have for some of the characters shows how well they're portrayed to the reader. The main characters are older too which is refreshing, in their 30's and 40's.

Darrow! I think he has made my book boyfriend list. I don't think he came off as too morally gray. I really love that he isn't unnecessarily an awful person to Aella in the beginning, like many of these types of MMC can be. Due to the dual POV, we know his thinking and reasoning. There were times when his words to her had me giggling to myself like a schoolgirl. I loved it. Each to their own, but i didn't find him irritating at all. Just swoon-worthy.

I didn't dislike Aella either. Usually the FMC gets on my last nerve. She wasn't stupid, or too stupid. She only ever had bad choices to choose between. She has had a terrible start in life and has made the best of what she has. She is a strong, compassionate person and I loved her development.

The world building is to die for. The fauna described in this sounds amazingly breathtaking. A lot of them being sentient and their own kind of side characters I feel really added depth to the world and Aella.

It's teasing, it's slow-burn, there's magic, there's touch her and die and most importantly, some spice! The spice could be on the rough side for some, but i liked it.

Book 2 please??! 🥺

I couldn't put it down, thank you to the author, Netgalley and the publishers for this masterpiece.

Excuse me?! What did I read?! How have I never heard of this author before? Why?! I feel absolutely slighted in life.

This was PHENOMENAL. I needed the rest of the series yesterday. Magic. Realms. Dragons. Hilarious Plants. Elves. Fae. Political discourse. Fated mates. Curses. There was every single thing I love in books in wrapped up and impeccably written in Oaths & Vengeance.

Bravo. Loved it. Can’t wait for the rest of the series. I need more Dare and Aella.

I devoured this book.

From the very first page, Oaths & Vengeance pulled me into a world so rich, so vividly woven, that I was utterly mesmerized. The characters, the lore, the sweeping landscapes of Zadrya—all of it enveloped me in a way that few stories ever do. It wasn’t just reading; it was an experience.

Aella has completely stolen my heart—fierce, determined, and so beautifully human in her strength and struggles. And Darrow? He can do whatever he wants… and I’ll thank him for it. Their chemistry, their depth—it’s the kind of dynamic that stays with you long after the final page.

I couldn’t stop reading, but I also never wanted it to end. Now that I’ve finished, I feel both fulfilled and bereft. That bittersweet ache of turning the last page of something truly special.

To say I’m looking forward to Susan’s second book in this series is a massive understatement. I need more of this world. Of these characters. Of everything she’s created.

Highly recommend for fantasy lovers who crave immersive worldbuilding, fierce heroines, and emotional stakes that grip you to your core.

I “Dare” you to read this book. Because you will not regret it. The little details like magic plants, the magic system that’s just different enough to be intriguing, and the cursed main characters kept me completely engulfed in this book. The amount of daily life tasks I didn’t do in order to read this book. So completely worth it. One of my top reads of the year and I’m ready for book 2! It is books like this one that are the reason I love romantasy.

This book had so many tiny details that really brought it all together. The back stories the side characters and the wild plants! All so perfectly written together to form such an amazing story!

ARC REVIEW🌾🐦: Oaths and Vegence by Susan Illene!

So much to say in so little room! I recieved this ARC copy through Netgalley! Which I'm so grateful for! It's up there as one of my favorite reads and now I want book 2 state, the ending had me in a vice grip!

Oaths and Vegence
Susan Illene
5⭐
Man, I fell in love with this story hard while reading it. This book starts out slow, a good kind of slow that helps establish the characters and the story as a whole! The way the author delivered lore throughout the book was awesome and I never thought it was too jarring!
I love Aella and Darrow's relationship, gosh dang the enemies to lovers slow burn was slow burn. I could feel the energy from across the room. Both of their struggles were very real and like Aella I wanted to punch Darrow in the face several times, I know he can't help it (spoilers) but dang, did I almost tear up a few times with how frustrating he was!!

I despise Morgunn and Ulmar. You'll know why when you pick this up 😏

I loved the rest of the side characters in the books, and Aellas plants! Some of the funniest moments in the books! If you like political stuff this has it for you!

Please check out Oaths and Vegence when it comes out!!

I read this so fast because I absolutely loved this book. I loved the FMC and MMC, even though we shouldn't love him. But he is so well written that you cant help but rooting for him, as stated in the book he just makes you feel alive. The world building was incredible, you could imagine everywhere and just fully immersed yourself into this incredible story. The connection between the main characters was well done, with a good level of tense chemistry, banter and just the perfect amount of slow burn. This book will do amazing!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Would give it 10 if I could!)
Holy smokes, this book delivered everything I love in a fantasy romance and more! Oaths & Vengeance is an absolute must-read. From the sizzling enemies-to-lovers dynamic to the tangled web of political intrigue, Susan Illene weaves a world teeming with danger, desire, and deadly magic. Think dark and light elves (High Fae), warring families, vicious flora and fauna, Druids, and lesser Fae—this book is packed with rich worldbuilding and tension.
The pacing was seamless; I devoured it in record time. And the spice? Let’s just say it brought the heat—🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ levels of hot! Illene balances character depth with action and romance like a pro, making this one of the best reads I’ve had all year.
If you love fantasy with bite and burn, Oaths & Vengeance should be at the top of your TBR. It hits shelves August 22nd—don’t miss it!
Thanks to #NetGalley and the author #SusanIllene for the opportunity to read this amazing ARC!
#FantasyRomance #OathsAndVengeance #SpicyReads #EnemiesToLovers #TBRAlert #RealmOfZadrya #Bookstagram #BookReview

This one gets my highest rating I can give without it being god-tiered. I LOVED this book, I had such a great time reading it! It is classic romatasy in all of the best ways… Magic, slow-burn romance, hidden powers, secret marriages… but with just enough uniqueness to make it feel fresh and immersive.

First of all… an FMC in her 30’s? Yes, please! She’s smart, capable, and resourceful, but she also has softness and emotion. She struck a great balance between practicality and vulnerability, and I enjoyed being in her head. It felt refreshing to follow someone who actually felt like an adult woman with a lived experience.

The MMC didn’t win me over immediately. He makes a few questionable comments early on (nothing too awful, just eyebrow-raising), but his loyalty is never in question. He consistently shows up for the FMC and by the end, I really liked how his character had grown. He became more open and emotionally available.

The romance itself was a slow burn, and I thought it worked really well. It wasn’t the only focus in the story, but it wove through the main plot in a way that felt very balanced. The tension builds steadily throughout, and when the spicy scenes come, it didn’t feel like the story lost momentum or forgot what it was doing. (Also: the “who did this to you?” trope makes an appearance, and I always love that.) Add in fated mates, enemies to lovers, and a secret marriage? All my favorite things!

I have to give a huge shout-out to the sentient garden, it ended up being one of my favorite parts of the book. The lore around the plants… their powers, personalities, even how they interact with the characters, was such a cool addition to the world. I read that the author’s son helped come up with the garden’s details, and that made me love it even more. I thought it was so whimsical and it added so much depth to the story.

The supporting cast didn’t get a ton of page time, and while I wouldn’t call it a “found family” story, the secondary characters felt like natural parts of the world. They weren’t fully fleshed out, but they also weren’t treated like NPCs or background noise, ane they played their roles well. I didn’t mind the limited development.

The pacing overall was really solid… not a breakneck binge read, but a story I wanted to take my time with. It unfolds at a steady pace that lets you explore the world without getting bogged down in info-dumps. That slower burn really worked for me.

There are plenty of threads left hanging, and I’ll definitely be continuing with the series. Between the romance, the garden lore, the magical politics, and the character growth, I’m fully sat and invested in what happens next.

HUUUUUGE Thank You to NetGalley and Victory Editing for allowing me to read this one, I absolutely loved it!

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC ✨

I’m not one for fae type books usually because they’re generally all the same but when I DO come across one that’s very unique, I’m locked in!

This book is so intricate by design. The writing style is very immersive and I enjoyed its magic system so much!

The slow burn was sooooo satisfying and annoying at the same time 🤣 because Darrow I wanted to jump into the book and rattle him myself!

The sentient garden? Omg I love this so much and it’s so unique. Definitely my favorite element here.

FINALLY an FMC that is in my age range. A girl in her 30’s and one I can really relate to in some ways! I loved being in her POV throughout this whole adventure. Her progress is intriguing and I’m excited for her continued journey.

I really liked the pace this book went. At first I was like hmm, okay where’s the punch line but it progresses beautifully and as it should.

Overall the originality of this book is on a whole other level and I’m very happy to have the opportunity to give feedback.

Thank you NetGalley for this eCopy to review

I just finished Oaths & Vengeance, and I’m still buzzing from the ride, it was absolutely brilliant! If you love romantasy with bite, this one’s a must-read.

The story centres on Aella, a powerful half-elf, half-druid who’s fiercely independent and deeply protective of her often dangerous garden. Her life takes a sharp turn when she’s forced to strike a deal with Darrow, a cursed and ruthless elf who’s also her sworn enemy. The catch? He demands a secret marriage in exchange for helping someone close to her who’s dying. Fae marriages are forever, and Aella knows she’s stepping into something far more complicated than a simple bargain.

What unfolds is a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance wrapped in political intrigue, ancient curses, and a realm teetering on the edge of war. The chemistry between Aella and Darrow is electric full of witty banter, tension, and emotional depth. But what really stood out to me was the world-building: sentient plants that bite, a castle garden that doubles as a fortress, and a magical system that feels fresh and dangerous.

It delivers on every front romance, action, mystery, and emotion. The pacing was tight, the stakes were high, and the character relationships were deeply satisfying.

If you’re into fantasy with strong female leads, morally grey love interests, and lush, dangerous settings, Oaths & Vengeance is a gem. I can’t wait for book two.

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.

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. ✨

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!

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.

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!