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Deadly Vows
Enter the shadows. Unleash your power. Embrace your fate.
Taylor Windsor is only fifteen when her parents die in a tragic fire. During her grieving, she’s sent to live with her Aunt Mel in the small town of Grimwood, North Carolina. Taylor struggles to adjust to her new reality, and strange occurrences unfold.
After being forbidden from entering a locked room, Taylor’s curiosity leads her and her new friend Kylie to an ancient steamer trunk filled with dark secrets. She soon uncovers a shocking Aunt Mel made a deadly pact with a demon. The demon has come to collect a soul, and Taylor is the only one who can stop him.
As Taylor pieces her family’s past together, she realizes she can’t escape her destiny. Determined to save Mel and confront the demon who tricked her aunt, Taylor steps into her parents’ world, embracing the role they sought to deny her. With time running out, Taylor must master her newfound abilities and navigate a treacherous path to break the deadly vow.
Perfect for fans of Cassandra Clare’s The Mortal Instruments and Sarra Cannon’s The Shadow Demons Saga, Deadly Vows is a thrilling journey through loss, discovery, and a dark world of magic and danger.
Taylor Windsor is only fifteen when her parents die in a tragic fire. During her grieving, she’s sent to live with her Aunt Mel in the small town of Grimwood, North Carolina. Taylor struggles to adjust to her new reality, and strange occurrences unfold.
After being forbidden from entering a locked room, Taylor’s curiosity leads her and her new friend Kylie to an ancient steamer trunk filled with dark secrets. She soon uncovers a shocking Aunt Mel made a deadly pact with a demon. The demon has come to collect a soul, and Taylor is the only one who can stop him.
As Taylor pieces her family’s past together, she realizes she can’t escape her destiny. Determined to save Mel and confront the demon who tricked her aunt, Taylor steps into her parents’ world, embracing the role they sought to deny her. With time running out, Taylor must master her newfound abilities and navigate a treacherous path to break the deadly vow.
Perfect for fans of Cassandra Clare’s The Mortal Instruments and Sarra Cannon’s The Shadow Demons Saga, Deadly Vows is a thrilling journey through loss, discovery, and a dark world of magic and danger.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 17, 2025
1 person is currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Nichole Heydenburg
10 books116 followersNichole Heydenburg is the author of The Shadow Bound Chronicles and other thriller and fantasy books for adults and teens. She also owns Poisoned Ink Press, where she provides editing services to authors. In 2014, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in English with an emphasis in writing from Adrian College. When she isn’t writing, Nichole enjoys exploring new cities, reading, and drinking iced mochas. She currently resides near Asheville, NC with her husband Zed and their crazy rescue dog Mr. B.
Be the first to learn about Nichole Heydenburg’s new releases and other thrilling news! Subscribe to her monthly newsletter on www.nicholeheydenburg.com.
You can also follow her on social media: Facebook @NicholeHeydenburg and Instagram @nicholehtheauthor.
Be the first to learn about Nichole Heydenburg’s new releases and other thrilling news! Subscribe to her monthly newsletter on www.nicholeheydenburg.com.
You can also follow her on social media: Facebook @NicholeHeydenburg and Instagram @nicholehtheauthor.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
September 1, 2025
Deadly Vows is dark, mysterious, and full of secrets waiting to be uncovered. I loved the eerie small-town setting, the undercurrent of danger, and the way magic and family ties wove together to create such an engaging story. It has that perfect mix of loss, discovery, and suspense that kept me hooked from start to finish. A solid start to the series that left me excited to see where it goes next.
September 12, 2025
I’ve been lucky enough to be one of Nichole’s readers from the beginning of her career and I have enjoyed all of her books but I truly believe this genre is perfect for her.
Her words jumped off the pages and had me hooked from the beginning. This story was written in multiple POVs and it was fun to bounce back and forth between the characters to get their point of view as the story progressed. I cannot wait to see what happens next as Taylor heads off to Demon Hunter Academy! This book is out now and would be a perfect start to your Ber months/spooky season reads!
Check out Nichole’s website & kickstarter and do what you can to support this genuinely awesome indie author!
Her words jumped off the pages and had me hooked from the beginning. This story was written in multiple POVs and it was fun to bounce back and forth between the characters to get their point of view as the story progressed. I cannot wait to see what happens next as Taylor heads off to Demon Hunter Academy! This book is out now and would be a perfect start to your Ber months/spooky season reads!
Check out Nichole’s website & kickstarter and do what you can to support this genuinely awesome indie author!
August 28, 2025
4.5 stars. Deadly Vows is the first book in Nichole Heydenburg’s new YA urban fantasy series, the Shadow Bound Chronicles, and it was so good! See beginning of the book for content warnings.
First of all, I cannot stop staring at this cover! It is my favorite cover of Nichole’s. Miblart did a FANTASTIC job! I love these colors so much!
Now onto the story. The prequel to this book, These Deadly Words, was the first book of Nichole’s I’d ever read and returning to and learning more about that world was so much fun! I really enjoyed learning about this story’s magic system right along with Taylor. It added to the mystique surrounding the demon hunters and their world. The plot gave me some subtle Buffy the Vampire Slayer vibes, which I thought was very fun.
If you haven’t read any of Nichole’s books yet, give this one a try.
First of all, I cannot stop staring at this cover! It is my favorite cover of Nichole’s. Miblart did a FANTASTIC job! I love these colors so much!
Now onto the story. The prequel to this book, These Deadly Words, was the first book of Nichole’s I’d ever read and returning to and learning more about that world was so much fun! I really enjoyed learning about this story’s magic system right along with Taylor. It added to the mystique surrounding the demon hunters and their world. The plot gave me some subtle Buffy the Vampire Slayer vibes, which I thought was very fun.
If you haven’t read any of Nichole’s books yet, give this one a try.
June 18, 2025
I enjoyed this story and meeting Taylor. This story is full of intrigue, mystery, drama and surprises. But the characters were fun and the situations interesting at times. I had to see it all play out and see how demons came into the story. Some suspense kept things interesting too and cannot wait to see what happens next.
August 23, 2025
Taylor Windsor a likeable 15-year-old protagonist who moves to a strange small town after her parents' tragic death. I enjoyed the multiple povs and family secrets in this ya thriller. Not totally unique but still well done. Fans of Supernatural will like this one.
September 2, 2025
It’s been a while since I took a YA adventure, but I’m so happy I did! Deadly Vows carries an air of nostalgia reminiscent of the original Charmed, City of Bones, and a slight touch of Buffy the Vampire Slayer - all odes to my younger years. There’s action, there’s mystery, there’s intrigue, there’s real world emotional troubles… and that’s all outside of the main plot. With so much packed into one novel, you just know it’s going to be good right from the start.
And it was! Nichole Heydenburg came out swinging, hitting readers with emotional turmoil and tragedy to kick off the series. Much like many fantasy FMCs, Taylor must survive excruciating loss as she’s thrown into a new reality full of demons, demon hunting, and deeply buried family secrets. The world building was simple enough to follow while still building intrigue; the action was perfect for YA and never deviated into
gore or horror; the character development and arcs were strong; and the ending left me wanting more immediately. I can’t wait to read book 2, Deadly Betrayal!
**Thank you for sending me this ARC for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
And it was! Nichole Heydenburg came out swinging, hitting readers with emotional turmoil and tragedy to kick off the series. Much like many fantasy FMCs, Taylor must survive excruciating loss as she’s thrown into a new reality full of demons, demon hunting, and deeply buried family secrets. The world building was simple enough to follow while still building intrigue; the action was perfect for YA and never deviated into
gore or horror; the character development and arcs were strong; and the ending left me wanting more immediately. I can’t wait to read book 2, Deadly Betrayal!
**Thank you for sending me this ARC for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
June 4, 2025
ARC Review: Deadly Vows by Nichole Heydenburg
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had the chance to read Deadly Vows as an ARC, and I’m so glad I did. From start to finish, this book pulled me into a dark, emotional, and magical journey that I didn’t want to put down. This is the first book in The Shadow Bound Chronicles, and it’s the kind of story that stays with you long after the last page.
The story follows 15-year-old Taylor Windsor, whose life is shattered when she gets the devastating news that her parents died in a house fire. Overnight, everything changes. She’s sent to live with her Aunt Mel—someone she barely remembers—in the eerie little town of Grimwood, North Carolina. That alone would be enough to make her summer difficult, but it only gets stranger from there.
Taylor starts noticing odd things about the house and her aunt’s behavior, especially when she’s told never to enter a locked room. Of course, her curiosity gets the best of her (mine would too!), and with the help of her new friend Kylie, she uncovers a mysterious steamer trunk and an old family book that reveals a dark truth—her aunt made a pact with a demon, and that deal is coming due.
As Taylor starts digging into her family’s past, she discovers that she’s connected to a world of demon hunters—something her parents had tried to keep hidden from her. Now, she’s the only one who can stop the demon from collecting on the vow her aunt made. I loved the way the story unfolded—there’s this slow build-up of suspense, but it never drags. Every new clue and twist kept me turning the pages faster and faster.
Taylor is such a strong and relatable main character. Her grief, confusion, and eventual strength felt so real. Watching her step up, face the truth, and take control of her fate was really empowering. And I have to say—I loved Kylie as her sidekick. She brought humor and heart to the story when things got intense.
The book blends suspense, fantasy, and emotion beautifully. It touches on heavy topics like grief and family betrayal, but it also has that spark of hope and self-discovery that I love in YA fantasy. And the ending? It left me needing more. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series.
If you like your fantasy with a dark twist, layered characters, and a bit of a creepy edge, definitely check this one out. It reminded me of The Mortal Instruments with a touch of Sarra Cannon’s Shadow Demons vibe, but it still felt fresh and unique in its own way.
I received this book as a free ARC from the author, and this review is my honest, voluntary opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had the chance to read Deadly Vows as an ARC, and I’m so glad I did. From start to finish, this book pulled me into a dark, emotional, and magical journey that I didn’t want to put down. This is the first book in The Shadow Bound Chronicles, and it’s the kind of story that stays with you long after the last page.
The story follows 15-year-old Taylor Windsor, whose life is shattered when she gets the devastating news that her parents died in a house fire. Overnight, everything changes. She’s sent to live with her Aunt Mel—someone she barely remembers—in the eerie little town of Grimwood, North Carolina. That alone would be enough to make her summer difficult, but it only gets stranger from there.
Taylor starts noticing odd things about the house and her aunt’s behavior, especially when she’s told never to enter a locked room. Of course, her curiosity gets the best of her (mine would too!), and with the help of her new friend Kylie, she uncovers a mysterious steamer trunk and an old family book that reveals a dark truth—her aunt made a pact with a demon, and that deal is coming due.
As Taylor starts digging into her family’s past, she discovers that she’s connected to a world of demon hunters—something her parents had tried to keep hidden from her. Now, she’s the only one who can stop the demon from collecting on the vow her aunt made. I loved the way the story unfolded—there’s this slow build-up of suspense, but it never drags. Every new clue and twist kept me turning the pages faster and faster.
Taylor is such a strong and relatable main character. Her grief, confusion, and eventual strength felt so real. Watching her step up, face the truth, and take control of her fate was really empowering. And I have to say—I loved Kylie as her sidekick. She brought humor and heart to the story when things got intense.
The book blends suspense, fantasy, and emotion beautifully. It touches on heavy topics like grief and family betrayal, but it also has that spark of hope and self-discovery that I love in YA fantasy. And the ending? It left me needing more. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series.
If you like your fantasy with a dark twist, layered characters, and a bit of a creepy edge, definitely check this one out. It reminded me of The Mortal Instruments with a touch of Sarra Cannon’s Shadow Demons vibe, but it still felt fresh and unique in its own way.
I received this book as a free ARC from the author, and this review is my honest, voluntary opinion.
June 5, 2025
3.75 ⭐️ rounded up
“Nothing much happens in Grimwood…”
Except demons. And secrets. And a family legacy that could save (or doom) the world.
Deadly Vows by Nichole Heydenburg is a fast-paced, atmospheric YA suspense/thriller perfect for fans of Supernatural. Beneath the demon-slaying action and small-town sleuthing, it also explores themes of grief, identity, and legacy in a way that feels both accessible and emotionally grounded.
After suffering a devastating loss, 15-year-old Taylor relocates to a quiet town to live with her Aunt Mel. But Grimwood is anything but ordinary. Her overly friendly new classmate, Kylie, seems to know more about Taylor’s family than Taylor herself. What follows is a story full of demon lore, dark secrets, and a growing sense of purpose for a girl who just wants to survive the school year.
The narrative unfolds through three POVs (mainly Taylor and Mel), giving the story a richer perspective as we watch them both step into unfamiliar (and dangerous) roles. The writing is straightforward and easy to get into, with solid pacing that kept me turning pages. I don’t typically reach for YA, but Deadly Vows surprised me with its mix of charm, creepiness, and genuine heart.
I found myself wanting more grit and depth in the writing. Even for a YA novel, a story centered around demons and monstrous creatures should pack more of a punch. In my opinion, it lacked the shock value the premise promised.
While some character archetypes leaned familiar, they were still likable, and I’m eager to see how they grow in future installments. The ending especially deserves a shout-out: it struck a great balance between resolution and anticipation. Satisfying without being too neat, and it left me genuinely excited to continue the series.
If you’re into supernatural stakes with an emotional undercurrent and a found-family vibe, Deadly Vows is well worth picking up.
An eARC was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
“Nothing much happens in Grimwood…”
Except demons. And secrets. And a family legacy that could save (or doom) the world.
Deadly Vows by Nichole Heydenburg is a fast-paced, atmospheric YA suspense/thriller perfect for fans of Supernatural. Beneath the demon-slaying action and small-town sleuthing, it also explores themes of grief, identity, and legacy in a way that feels both accessible and emotionally grounded.
After suffering a devastating loss, 15-year-old Taylor relocates to a quiet town to live with her Aunt Mel. But Grimwood is anything but ordinary. Her overly friendly new classmate, Kylie, seems to know more about Taylor’s family than Taylor herself. What follows is a story full of demon lore, dark secrets, and a growing sense of purpose for a girl who just wants to survive the school year.
The narrative unfolds through three POVs (mainly Taylor and Mel), giving the story a richer perspective as we watch them both step into unfamiliar (and dangerous) roles. The writing is straightforward and easy to get into, with solid pacing that kept me turning pages. I don’t typically reach for YA, but Deadly Vows surprised me with its mix of charm, creepiness, and genuine heart.
I found myself wanting more grit and depth in the writing. Even for a YA novel, a story centered around demons and monstrous creatures should pack more of a punch. In my opinion, it lacked the shock value the premise promised.
While some character archetypes leaned familiar, they were still likable, and I’m eager to see how they grow in future installments. The ending especially deserves a shout-out: it struck a great balance between resolution and anticipation. Satisfying without being too neat, and it left me genuinely excited to continue the series.
If you’re into supernatural stakes with an emotional undercurrent and a found-family vibe, Deadly Vows is well worth picking up.
An eARC was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2025
Taylor Windsor is a normal 15 year old teen girl attending a sleepover with her best friend Krissy complete with horror movies, pizza, and talk about upcoming 16th birthday excitement and drivers license tests. Taylor goes into the kitchen to get a glass of water and her world shatters. A phone call from the police department informs her that her house has just burned to the ground with her parents inside.
And just like that, she is a homeless orphan with only the clothes on her back. Her mother's sister, Mel Turner, lives in their old hometown of Grimwood, North Carolina. Mel was given custody of Taylor in the will, so she has to move from Minneapolis, leaving all her friends and everything she knows behind. Mel lives her parents big creepy old house that she inherited upon their deaths. Mysteries abound in the old house, with locked and forbidden rooms and unanswered questions about the family history like why her parents moved away and never contacted or told Taylor about her grandparents.
The action really picks up in the book after the first few chapters as Taylor and her new friend Kylie try to piece together the puzzle. They find out that the family legacy is demon hunting and Taylor will soon come into her powers when she turns 16.
Bad choices and evil demons soon come back to haunt the Turner/Windsor household. Twists and turns keep the plot moving, and I was unable to put the book down as the story ramped up. The ending was great and leaves enough unresolved to pave the way for the next book. I can't wait to see Taylor go to the Demon Hunter's academy and grow into a full-fledged demon hunter!
I read an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
And just like that, she is a homeless orphan with only the clothes on her back. Her mother's sister, Mel Turner, lives in their old hometown of Grimwood, North Carolina. Mel was given custody of Taylor in the will, so she has to move from Minneapolis, leaving all her friends and everything she knows behind. Mel lives her parents big creepy old house that she inherited upon their deaths. Mysteries abound in the old house, with locked and forbidden rooms and unanswered questions about the family history like why her parents moved away and never contacted or told Taylor about her grandparents.
The action really picks up in the book after the first few chapters as Taylor and her new friend Kylie try to piece together the puzzle. They find out that the family legacy is demon hunting and Taylor will soon come into her powers when she turns 16.
Bad choices and evil demons soon come back to haunt the Turner/Windsor household. Twists and turns keep the plot moving, and I was unable to put the book down as the story ramped up. The ending was great and leaves enough unresolved to pave the way for the next book. I can't wait to see Taylor go to the Demon Hunter's academy and grow into a full-fledged demon hunter!
I read an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2025
Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews: “Deadly Vows” by Nichole Heydenburg
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
All Taylor wanted was to have a fun summer with friends and family and the chance to earn her driver’s license on her 16th birthday. But when tragedy strikes, she is sent to live with her estranged aunt—changing her life forever. Soon, strange things start to occur..and everything she thought she knew about her family starts to come to light.
From the author of “These Deadly Words”, “Don’t Look Inside”, and “Dead Girls Can’t Smile”, Nicole Heydenburg debuts her first YA Fantasy novel and the thrilling first installment in her “Shadow Bound Chronicles” series! Heydenburg masterfully blends her signature slow-burn suspense with an action-packed take on the classic Demons vs. Demon Hunters rivalry. Taylor’s journey and character arc make for an exhilarating read, with each twist, turn, and magical revelation strengthening her perception of the world around her. I don’t want to give away any spoilers—but for fans of Heydenburg’s previous works, be on the lookout for an exciting narrative surprise! Ready to dive into a page-turner reminiscent of Stephen King? Don’t miss this gripping release when it hits shelves on June 17, 2025!
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Tropes: YA Fantasy, Paranormal Fantasy, Magic and Secrets, Faustian Bargain, Suspense, Chosen One Protagonist, and Demons vs Demon Hunter Narrative.
- Trigger Warnings: Deaths of Family Members, Communication Conflicts, and Discussions of Grief and Loss!
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
All Taylor wanted was to have a fun summer with friends and family and the chance to earn her driver’s license on her 16th birthday. But when tragedy strikes, she is sent to live with her estranged aunt—changing her life forever. Soon, strange things start to occur..and everything she thought she knew about her family starts to come to light.
From the author of “These Deadly Words”, “Don’t Look Inside”, and “Dead Girls Can’t Smile”, Nicole Heydenburg debuts her first YA Fantasy novel and the thrilling first installment in her “Shadow Bound Chronicles” series! Heydenburg masterfully blends her signature slow-burn suspense with an action-packed take on the classic Demons vs. Demon Hunters rivalry. Taylor’s journey and character arc make for an exhilarating read, with each twist, turn, and magical revelation strengthening her perception of the world around her. I don’t want to give away any spoilers—but for fans of Heydenburg’s previous works, be on the lookout for an exciting narrative surprise! Ready to dive into a page-turner reminiscent of Stephen King? Don’t miss this gripping release when it hits shelves on June 17, 2025!
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Tropes: YA Fantasy, Paranormal Fantasy, Magic and Secrets, Faustian Bargain, Suspense, Chosen One Protagonist, and Demons vs Demon Hunter Narrative.
- Trigger Warnings: Deaths of Family Members, Communication Conflicts, and Discussions of Grief and Loss!
March 26, 2025
“Enter the shadows. Unleash your power. Embrace your fate.”
This book was so much fun and creepy I’m all the best ways, in all the right places. I would have easily read it in one day but had a lot on my plate. I loved the relationship between Taylor and her aunt. I, also, enjoyed getting multiple points of view throughout the story. I felt so bad for Taylor losing her parents the way she did.
I was gifted an arc of this book by Nichole Heydenburg and am writing this review of my own free will. And, then, she also had to give up everything familiar in her life to move to a new town, where the only person she knew was an aunt she hadn’t talked to in years. She bonds quickly with Mel, her mother’s sister, it quickly becomes apparent that Mel is keeping big secrets. Being a normal teen, Taylor takes it upon herself, and her new next door neighbor friend to discover exactly what’s being kept from her. As a huge fan of shows like Supernatural and books like the Shadowhunter series, I love the entire demons vs. demon hunters storyline. And, Nichole manages it perfectly with a slow burn suspense that is, also, action packed. There were so many twists and surprises and I am truly excited about the next book coming out. Deadly Vows is truly the perfect YA suspense thriller!
This book was so much fun and creepy I’m all the best ways, in all the right places. I would have easily read it in one day but had a lot on my plate. I loved the relationship between Taylor and her aunt. I, also, enjoyed getting multiple points of view throughout the story. I felt so bad for Taylor losing her parents the way she did.
I was gifted an arc of this book by Nichole Heydenburg and am writing this review of my own free will. And, then, she also had to give up everything familiar in her life to move to a new town, where the only person she knew was an aunt she hadn’t talked to in years. She bonds quickly with Mel, her mother’s sister, it quickly becomes apparent that Mel is keeping big secrets. Being a normal teen, Taylor takes it upon herself, and her new next door neighbor friend to discover exactly what’s being kept from her. As a huge fan of shows like Supernatural and books like the Shadowhunter series, I love the entire demons vs. demon hunters storyline. And, Nichole manages it perfectly with a slow burn suspense that is, also, action packed. There were so many twists and surprises and I am truly excited about the next book coming out. Deadly Vows is truly the perfect YA suspense thriller!
June 16, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
We all love a strong FMC, especially one that is young and coming into her own, and author Nichole Heydenburg delivered her to us with Taylor Windsor. This story is unique and mysterious, and also has themes of grief, loss, and friendship. The suspense is on the slow burn side, giving the reader a chance to feel that edge-of-your-seat, page turning excitement that keeps you wanting to know more of the story. This story is told through multiple POV, which adds an added layer of depth and mystery as you get to see the story unfold through multiple perspectives. I feel that this story leans more towards the cozy side and less towards the terrifying, but as an introductory book for a series it is a great starting point and leaves enough anticipation at the end to draw the reader to seek more books in the future. This book is great for readers that enjoy supernatural stories, found family, dark family secrets, and good vs. evil vibes. This book is also a zero-spice level, so is suitable for younger readers. Still always check the trigger warnings and reviews!
We all love a strong FMC, especially one that is young and coming into her own, and author Nichole Heydenburg delivered her to us with Taylor Windsor. This story is unique and mysterious, and also has themes of grief, loss, and friendship. The suspense is on the slow burn side, giving the reader a chance to feel that edge-of-your-seat, page turning excitement that keeps you wanting to know more of the story. This story is told through multiple POV, which adds an added layer of depth and mystery as you get to see the story unfold through multiple perspectives. I feel that this story leans more towards the cozy side and less towards the terrifying, but as an introductory book for a series it is a great starting point and leaves enough anticipation at the end to draw the reader to seek more books in the future. This book is great for readers that enjoy supernatural stories, found family, dark family secrets, and good vs. evil vibes. This book is also a zero-spice level, so is suitable for younger readers. Still always check the trigger warnings and reviews!
January 17, 2025
First of all, I backed the Kickstarter and received the hardback edition of this book, and I have to say, it’s absolutely gorgeous. I will definitely be supporting the Kickstarter for book two!
Second, I’m a huge fan of Nichole Heydenburg, and I love her books. I feel like I’ve said this before, but this is my favorite book she’s written so far. There is something special about the world she’s creating with this story. I love all the imagery, the backstory, the mystery—everything about it. Taylor is such a strong character, and I’m fully invested in her journey. I really can’t wait to see what happens in Deadly Betrayal, especially after those last chapters! OMG, I’m on the edge of my seat, wondering what will happen next! I highly recommend this book.
P.S. I also loved the connection to Nichole's other book, "These Deadly Words." You don’t have to have read that book to enjoy this one, but I highly recommend it, as it's brilliantly written, and you'll love the tie-in!
Second, I’m a huge fan of Nichole Heydenburg, and I love her books. I feel like I’ve said this before, but this is my favorite book she’s written so far. There is something special about the world she’s creating with this story. I love all the imagery, the backstory, the mystery—everything about it. Taylor is such a strong character, and I’m fully invested in her journey. I really can’t wait to see what happens in Deadly Betrayal, especially after those last chapters! OMG, I’m on the edge of my seat, wondering what will happen next! I highly recommend this book.
P.S. I also loved the connection to Nichole's other book, "These Deadly Words." You don’t have to have read that book to enjoy this one, but I highly recommend it, as it's brilliantly written, and you'll love the tie-in!
April 2, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. We meet 15 year old Taylow, who loves horror movies. She is at her BFF for a sleepover when she receives a call from the police stating there has been a fire and her parents didn't make it. Her aunt Mel, whom she hasn't seen in 5 years has been named her guardian and now she must move. Moving to another state isn't fun and to find out that information from Mel about their family that her parents didn't tell her about is daunting. Mel had made an unthinkable vow that ended up in her sister and brother-in-law getting killed and now collection time has come. Taylor along with her new neighbor friend Kaylie are becoming sleuth in the house especially with looked rooms. Taylor manages to uncover a family book of demon hunting....what!! There is so much Taylor doesn't know and is being kept from her but when smtg happens it's time to face the truth.
June 15, 2025
If you’re in your Summerween era I highly recommend picking up Deadly Vows! This is a fast-paced YA fantasy that will leave you wondering what could happen next at the turn of every chapter.
Taylor is 15 and just lost her parents, now she’s living with her estranged Aunt Mel in a small town called Grimwood in North Carolina. Like any curious teenager, Taylor explores the house and discovers a steamer trunk. Inside the trunk is a book that divulges a deep dark secret of her aunt’s.
Through grief and this discovery she befriends her neighbor, a gal named Kylie and the two of them follow clues in a suspenseful adventure to a dark magical place that seals Taylor’s fate.
This book definitely has Supernatural & Charmed vibes and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
✨Fantasy
✨Magic & Secrets
✨Paranormal
✨Found Family
✨Chosen One
✨Good vs. Evil
Taylor is 15 and just lost her parents, now she’s living with her estranged Aunt Mel in a small town called Grimwood in North Carolina. Like any curious teenager, Taylor explores the house and discovers a steamer trunk. Inside the trunk is a book that divulges a deep dark secret of her aunt’s.
Through grief and this discovery she befriends her neighbor, a gal named Kylie and the two of them follow clues in a suspenseful adventure to a dark magical place that seals Taylor’s fate.
This book definitely has Supernatural & Charmed vibes and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
✨Fantasy
✨Magic & Secrets
✨Paranormal
✨Found Family
✨Chosen One
✨Good vs. Evil
June 17, 2025
ℬℴℴ𝓀 ℛℯ𝓋𝒾ℯ𝓌
Deadly Vows 𝚋𝚢 Nichole Heydenburg
Book Rating: 𝟜/𝟝 ⭐️
Welcome to Grimwood, North Carolina, where demons and demon hunters exist and
deadly occurrences abound.
What starts with a girls night ends in Tragedy when Taylor learns her house has burned down and her parents are dead. With no choice, Taylor is forced to move across the country to live with the aunt that she barely knows.
But everything is not as it seems as Taylor starts to unravel secrets about her family. Filled with suspense, demons, and mystery this is a book you won’t want to miss!
Tropes:
The Chosen One
No spice, sweet romance
Found family
Dark family secret
Demon hunters
Good vs. evil.
Thank you so much @nicholehtheauthor and @iris.influencer.society for the gifted copy.
Deadly Vows 𝚋𝚢 Nichole Heydenburg
Book Rating: 𝟜/𝟝 ⭐️
Welcome to Grimwood, North Carolina, where demons and demon hunters exist and
deadly occurrences abound.
What starts with a girls night ends in Tragedy when Taylor learns her house has burned down and her parents are dead. With no choice, Taylor is forced to move across the country to live with the aunt that she barely knows.
But everything is not as it seems as Taylor starts to unravel secrets about her family. Filled with suspense, demons, and mystery this is a book you won’t want to miss!
Tropes:
The Chosen One
No spice, sweet romance
Found family
Dark family secret
Demon hunters
Good vs. evil.
Thank you so much @nicholehtheauthor and @iris.influencer.society for the gifted copy.
August 19, 2025
Ok, I was not expecting this. I saw Deadly Vows recommended in a book group I'm in on Facebook, and thought it looked like a good book to try. I was right. The only thing I knew going in was that there was magic, demons, a family secret, and dealing with grief. It hit those points and did very well. I wasn't expecting the twists and turns this book brought, but Nichole did an amazing job telling this story and pulling me in for more. As someone who hasn't immersed herself in YA Fantasy for a little while, it reminded me why this is one of my favorite genres. Even as an adult, it's nice to read a book that does hit hard themes, but makes them almost enjoyable. I can not wait for book 2.
March 31, 2025
Well the future for Taylor looks very busy. I can understand her family wanting to protect her but come on really? Now what to do about Kylie we know she’ll eventually let it all slip to her mom. I think Taylor not telling Mel about Julian will turn out to be a larger problem and more lies in the Turner family. I
really hope the Academy isn’t going to be a disaster.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarilyly.
really hope the Academy isn’t going to be a disaster.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarilyly.
April 28, 2025
I got this as an ARC and I’m leaving my honest opinion.
Taylor is a 15 year old girl whose parents die in a fire, she moves across the country to live with her aunt and then the mistery begins.
When I was reading the beginning it showed some hints of magic, but in the middle I had totally forgotten about magic so when the spells came in to play I had this kind of “oh, right” moment.
There were some moments that I wanted to throw my kindle across the room so the writer knows how to write to get your emotions involved.
All in all a good book and I’m very intrigued how the story goes on.
Taylor is a 15 year old girl whose parents die in a fire, she moves across the country to live with her aunt and then the mistery begins.
When I was reading the beginning it showed some hints of magic, but in the middle I had totally forgotten about magic so when the spells came in to play I had this kind of “oh, right” moment.
There were some moments that I wanted to throw my kindle across the room so the writer knows how to write to get your emotions involved.
All in all a good book and I’m very intrigued how the story goes on.
June 9, 2025
This was amazing!! True YA here and one of the best I’ve read in a long time. The characters are true to their age and the adventure feels like Supernatural meets Charmed. It was a lovely mix of magic and demons. Truly spectacular! I can’t wait to see where Taylor goes!! And what is going to happen with her mysterious Dream Walker friend!!!
April 26, 2025
A wonderful YA book! I loved the exploration of grief and family, as well as the supernatural world. I felt Taylor’s emotions and thought they were portrayed well as a teenage girl dealing with changes in her life.
Read
May 30, 2025Absolutely fantastic start to this new series. Enjoyed everything about it, the characters the story line, all of it. Can't wait to see where this all goes and how life chances for all of them. Super fast read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 17, 2025
I was lucky enough to read the ARC of Deadly Vows and I fell in love with the story line. Yes, it did make me cry a little but Taylor is so resilient! I love the story building and can't wait to see what happens next in the series. It fits perfectly with the YA genre and is well-paced.
September 14, 2025
Great book full of magic and mystery. Taylor is dealing with losing her parents when she is discovers that her aunt she is sent to live with has secrets of her own. I enjoyed seeing her discover the hidden world and her heritage.
May 24, 2025
This was such an entertaining and gripping book to read. I loved every page and the characters. I can't wait for the next installment.
June 16, 2025
Very strong female main character . Well written. Several different relationship themes. Looking forward to the next one. I received this ARC from Booksirens and am happy to leave this review.
April 30, 2025
This is a very well written YA horror type novel. The characters are fantastic. There are callbacks and foreshadowing that hit incredibly well once you notice them. There are little hints sprinkled throughout that are brilliantly tied together at the end. A great first entry into a promising series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 19, 2025
This is a dark and intriguing read that draws you in from start to finish. Taylor faces terrible loss when she loses her parents in a house fire and has her whole world turned upside down as she moves to live with her aunt. Set in the small town of Grimwood, Taylor soon notices that all is not as it seems as she discovers her family’s secrets and their connection to the demon world and the adventure really begins. Suspenseful, emotional, secretive and brimming with twists and turns as this incredible fantasy read captivates and enthrals.
June 17, 2025
Ahhh! Okay, first of all, the author has done it again with this book!
Thank you so much to Nichole for allowing me to beta read this book! You never disappoint l! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.
You’re writing is a breath of fresh air in the suspense category because it is clean, yet suspenseful enough to get you in the feels.
This book was different.
I own every book Nichole has published and backed this one Kickstarter! I can’t wait to get this baby!
I highly recommend this.
Thank you so much to Nichole for allowing me to beta read this book! You never disappoint l! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.
You’re writing is a breath of fresh air in the suspense category because it is clean, yet suspenseful enough to get you in the feels.
This book was different.
I own every book Nichole has published and backed this one Kickstarter! I can’t wait to get this baby!
I highly recommend this.
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