These Hollow Vows: A Spark in My Fantasy Odyssey (And Why It’s Worth the Hype
Book Cover “These Hollow Vows”
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.
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
