Our Vicious Oaths by N.E. Davenport
Fantasy Romance
10/28/2025 by Harper Voyager

I’ve been on a fantasy romance binge this year, so requesting this one for review was a no-brainer. I was prepared for lots of world-building and an introduction to a wide cast of characters, which yes, this does have that. What I was not prepared for was the spice level, which is WOWZA. Like second chapter wowza. I mean, you’ll hear absolutely zero complaints from me, but I figured that I should let readers know that this book is scorching hot.

Our Vicious Oaths is an enemies-to-lovers storyline, with a strong female protagonist caught in an impossible situation as the woman in the middle of a prophecy, promised in marriage to a high king she despises. Kadeesha is a warrior and leader of the Nkita, an all-female squadron of Kongamato Flyers. She wants no part in a marriage to a man who’s previous several wives all died suspiciously.

After one last night out with the girls, and a HOT evening in the sheets with a mysterious man, she does as bid by her father and shows up to the wedding festivities. Not knowing that the mysterious man she spent the night with is none other than Malachi, the King of Apollyon, and he is there to avenge the death of his parents by killing the high king. After much bloodshed and mayhem, Malachi whisks Kadeesha away to his court where they make a tentative deal that will enable both of them to get revenge.

This was a fun romantasy, full of court intrigue and fae politics. While it’s supposed to be ememies to lovers, there does tend to be a lust at first sight aspect to this couple’s relationship. The sex scenes are plentiful, and not for the faint of heart. If you like lots of spice in your romance this book is definitely for you. Both protagonists are strong and smart, and I enjoyed watching them circle each other, trying to get the best of each other, while also not fighting their chemistry even a little bit.

Last of His Blood by Melissa J. Cave
Empire of the Stars #3
Fantasy Romance
11/1/2025- Self Published

I discovered this series on Kindle Unlimited earlier this year and gobbled up the first two books. Last of His Blood is book three and picks up right where Stardust Child left off. Ophele and Rem have been summoned to court by the Emperor, Ophele’s distant father and the man who had Rem’s entire bloodline killed. There is a lot of angst, as Ophele has no courtly training and education. There is also the matter of Rem worried about both their safety.

This is a dense book, there are a lot of characters and while it seems to be slow paced, there is quite a bit going on, from the expansion of Tresingale to a plague like sickness that sweeps through and affects pretty much everyone, to Ophele finding her footing, and don’t forget the secondary characters that have their own agendas, wants, and needs. The first book in the series focused on the coming together of Ophele and Rem, two very different people from very different worlds, who are natural enemies. The second book centered very heavily on the expansion and building of their new town and home, and a war of sorts with devils and unnatural creatures that threatened all the citizens and surrounding towns and villages. This book really focuses on Rem, and his fears and anxiety over their upcoming trip to the capital city.

By now I’m very attached to both the main protagonists and secondary characters, which is why I was GUTTED by the cliffhanger. But I have faith in this author, and am willing to have hope that the next book in the series won’t let me down.