Let’s rewind: After Fourth Wing dragged me kicking and screaming into fantasy (read my origin story here), I devoured book after book. These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan was one of the reasons I kept reading fantasy. It was a glittering milestone in my journey. Here’s why it’s worth your TBR.
The Plot That Made Me Trust Faeries Again
Brie’s story – a human thief bargaining with Seelie and Unseelie fae – is the perfect bridge between YA and NA fantasy. Think:
Morally grey princes (Finn’s charm vs. Ronan’s brooding – fight me).
Betrayals that actually hurt.
Magic with teeth (literally, in some scenes).
But let’s talk about the twist that left me speechless: Sebastian.
Oh, Sebastian. I should’ve seen it coming – the quiet ally with secrets sharper than a faerie blade. But no. When his true identity as the Unseelie Prince crashed down, I gasped so loud my dog fell off the couch. And the betrayal? Let’s just say I’ve trust issues with fictional men now.
To the veterans: Did you guess his double life? Or did Lexi Ryan outwit you too? 🕵️♀️
Why It Stands Out in a Saturated Market
Pacing for the Impatient Reader
No 100-page worldbuilding lectures. Ryan drops you into the faerie courts and lets the politics show, not tell.
Romance That Doesn’t Overshadow
The love triangle isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s deliciously angsty – like ACOTAR Lite for readers who want plot with their pining.
Brie’s Ruthless Pragmatism
She’s no Mary Sue. Her choices are messy, selfish, and human – a breath of fresh air after cookie-cutter heroines.
Bonus: The side characters! Misha’s sass and Jasal’s eerie silence deserve their own fan club.
<a href="https://de.pinterest.com/pin/27795722693071026/" target="_blank" ></a> The fan art for "These Hollow Vows" captures the enchanting atmosphere of the story.
The Real Question: Is It Overhyped?
Look, I’ve read and listened to 100+ fantasy books since then. These Hollow Vows isn’t the best, but it’s damn entertaining. If you’re new to fae fantasy, it’s a gateway drug. If you’re a veteran, it’s a nostalgic snack.
My Verdict: 4/5 stars – not perfect, but a worthy detour on any fantasy map.
First and second Book of the duology
What’s Next on Cosmic Reads?
🔥 "Why Romantasy is More Than Just Smut" (Spoiler: Bring tissues).
🌙 "From Fourth Wing to The Serpent and the Wings of Night: How to Survive a Fantasy Binge".
⚔️ "The Rise of Dark Academia Fantasy – And Why You’ll Love It".
P.S. Agree? Disagree? Slide into my DMs on Instagram – let’s duel over faerie princes.
P.P.S. To the plot-twist lovers: Did you see XXX’s betrayal coming? 🗡️ Drop your theories below – no judgment, just chaos.
– Your Cosmic Book Guide