Review: The conclusion to Ryan’s fantasy duo ups the heat and the stakes! 

 

Having spent a majority of “These Hollow Vows” in the Seelie Court, Ryan allows the reader to explore the Wild Fae Lands and the Unseelie Court in “These Twisted Bonds.” Through Brie’s point-of-view, the reader journeys to Staraelia, a town in the Court of the Moon, and is exposed to Lunastal, a celebration of the bounty of the harvest. Despite the golden queen’s plans to destroy the shadow court looming overhead, Brie’s partaking in aspects of the ritual (like trekking up the mountain, making offerings to Lugh, and dancing) changes both the reader’s and Brie’s perceptions of the Unseelie from cruel and evil fae to innocent beings. 

 

Prince Ronan’s betrayal only deepens Brie’s connection with Prince Finnian and the shadow court by proxy. However, it also contributes to Brie’s trust issues. Brie’s inner thoughts reveals her struggle to confide in those around her, even Finnian, and the extent of her loneliness as a result. This aspect of the novel’s conflict is beautifully executed by Ryan and adds complexity to Brie’s character. 

 

Ryan also does a great job slowly uncovering the mystery surrounding Brie’s past and her magical abilities. Many of the truths that came to light blew my mind and sucked me further into the storyline. 

 

I hope that Ryan considers writing more novels that exist in the fae realm because I am not ready to say goodbye after reading this duology!