Asher Daniox was a prisoner. Taken once more by the royals who raised her in an attempt to save the male she loves, the princess finds herself at the mercy of cruelty. Her physical and mental strength will be put to the test as she seeks an opportunity to finally end the royals who are determined to see the world burn. As secrets are unveiled and truths finally come to light, Asher might become too lost to be found. But if The Manipulator is not there to save Alemthian, then who will?
Bellamy Ayad was broken. After being forced to watch his soulmate be taken by his flesh and blood, the prince finds himself hollow. Once a dreamer, he begins to question if such a thing even exists. As he attempts to navigate the precarious situation with his family and a few surprising allies, he will become obsessed with getting her back. But, if The Elemental can somehow save her, can he manage to keep her?
As alliances form, love is tested, and the world itself seems to teeter on the edge of annihilation, the heroes—or perhaps the villains—will be pushed to their limits. In the midst of war, they will face a terrifying choice.
How far will they go and how low will they sink to win?
Brea has been obsessively reading since she was six years old, consuming any and all books she could get her hands on. Thus sparked the dream of creating something similar – a book that would make readers cry and laugh and smile and feel all those big emotions that she did. At nine-years-old, she wrote her first book. Over the years she would write many more, but it was not until Of Night and Blood that she finally felt the book she dreamed of writing had come to life. Since then, she has poured her soul into many more stories and has found herself in the process.
She spends her time advocating for human rights, drinking too much coffee, chasing around her children, and ordering new books for her endless TBR. She lives in the United States with her family
So, this is a very difficult review for me to write because how do you write a review about a book that means so much to you, not just from a writing perspective, but from a life perspective? I feel so close to this story, these characters, the way Brea writes, and the way she is able to truly connect to human emotion... I just don’t feel that any review I could write would ever give this book (and this series) the justice it deserves.
Note: This is book 3 of the Coveted Series and not a standalone so please if you care about possible spoilers from the previous books, I advise you don’t read on and rather go read those first and then come back! Else… CARRY ON!
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨: This kicks off directly after the events of Realms in Chaos and dives right into the emotions. You’re thrown into the deep end from the very beginning—and I’m not talking about a little pool in your garden. I’m talking about one of those Olympic Diving Pools, where they need five metres of water below them, or they’ll hit their heads on the floor. Actually, scratch that; I’m talking about being dropped in the middle of the ocean above the Mariana Trench. You’re left to figure out how to stay afloat amidst the emotions, the heartbreak, and everything being thrown at you. Your heart is going to break for these characters, and you will want to scream and shout at all the horrible things being done to them because you just want your babies to be safe, and happy and for them to sit together in a circle and sing Kumbaya. Instead, they’re being hurt AND IT HURTS YOU! But it’s beautiful, the way the words, the emotions, and everything come together so perfectly on the page.
Asher goes in an interesting direction in this book, and at times, she isn’t always my favourite character. She’s a little scary, dark, and leaning A LOT into the lines of “morally grey” . But, while I didn’t always agree with her choices (and there were a few times I wanted to ask, “Darling, what are you doing?”) I could see why she made them. The direction is needed to help her grow and overcome her old and new trauma. She’s been under the thumb of her adoptive parents her entire life, and now; back under their control, she’s essentially told them, Fuck you with a big middle finger pointed right at their faces. Her vengeance is dark and twisted, but it’s also exactly what she needed. She’s coming into her own power. This is the story of how a TRUE QUEEN is made…not just born. She is shaped by everything she’s endured. Asher is so passionate about her people, her beliefs, and what she knows is right. She fights for what she hopes for, and claws, scratches, and rips apart anything standing in the way of her people’s safety.
Bellamy, my man, just keeps getting cuter and more adorable every day. I want to squish his cheeks (although he probably wouldn’t like that.) Yes, like Ash, he goes a little “scary-spooky” at times as he is deadly with a knife and those flame-wrapped fingers of his. But HE WILL DO ANYTHING FOR ASHER. This man would crawl across the desert to find her. He would crawl across the world and the universe. He would burn it down too if it meant making her happy. He’s so obsessed and in love with her that it transcends into something otherworldly. The way he feels about her is something you can’t put into words.
NOW… lets talk about the other POV’s. Their addition add so much more to the story taking the plot more into the realms of what you see with traditional fantasy where each character is working on their own plot, building to the culmination of them all united.
Sterling. Oh, Sterling. Trust Brea to take one of the most loathsome men from book one and turn him into ONE OF MY FAVOURITE CHARACTERS. He is such a gooey cinnamon roll. He hides his trauma behind humour, sarcasm and inappropriate jokes, and the bond he develops with Asher is incredible. Traditionally when I see “Trauma Bonding” in books it is usually romantic, but here, it’s purely platonic—almost like a brother-sister relationship. They’re so close, and my heart melted in every scene they shared, seeing how they protected and supported each other. Again, if you’d told me after book one how much I’d love Sterling, I would’ve laughed in your face… but here I am, absolutely adoring him.
Perdita, our mute pirate captain, is another highlight. She is a pirate through and through. She talks like a pirate, acts like a pirate, and even has sex like a pirate, unapologetically and unashamedly. Her dirty mouth, the tension, the angst, and the hate-to-love dynamic in her budding romance with Lain IS fantastic.
And then there’s Henry and Genevieve. THE LITERAL PERSONIFICATION OF A COUPLE who defines explosive hate-fuck energy. They’re sexy, fiery, passionate and everything you want in an intense pairing. Henry MY GOD THIS carrot-top man lives rent-free in my heart. Sorry, Not Sorry Bellamy... but Henry is still above you on my podium. He’s funny, sweet, loyal, and just so perfect.
There’s a definite sense of elevation in this book—the writing, the editing, and the way everything is structured show how much Brea has grown as an Author. You can see her becoming more confident as a writer, tackling more nuanced and difficult topics and situations with such care and beauty. The writing is also not the only thing that feels elevated in this book, but THE SPICE!!!! Brea not only keeps Asher and Bellamy’s scenes fresh, delicious and engaging but also adds DEVINE moments with the rest of the couples. Adding in variety with sapphic moments, unexpected kink, and even blood play!!!! (which I did not expect on my OVAW BINGO CARD). Every intimate moment feels purposeful, never repetitive, and adds layers to the characters that never feel boring or added for the sake of adding spice.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 ▶ Soul Mates ▶ Trauma Bonding ▶ Fae, Demons, Humans and Gods ▶ Found Family ▶ Intricate Magic System ▶ Political Intrigue ▶ Burn the World for You ▶ Multiple POV's
Overall, this is the best book Brea has written. The love and care she’s poured into this story bleed off the pages. I could go on forever about the characters, the emotions, JUST EVERYTHING! BUT I’ll leave you with this... do yourself a favour and pick UP THE SERIES and eventually this BOOK! This series is so underrated. If you love emotionally driven stories with incredible character development, you won’t regret it!
Thank you to Brea Lamb for letting me be one of your beta readers. Even though I love and adore you so much... THIS HAS NOT INFLUENCED THAT all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book is HEAVY, and I love it for that! There is so much to unpack in terms of mental trauma from previous abusers, physical abuse, and overcoming your own self-doubts in order to become the best version of yourself.
Asher has come such a long way since book one, but there is yet more for her to endure. She had gotten so far away from her captors/adoptive parents, just to be forced back to them again. Bellamy has done everything he can to convince Asher that she is worthy of life and love, but she can't forgive herself for her past transgressions against innocent people. So, she allows herself to be taken prisoner again in order to save those she loves.
Now, Asher must endure even more torture and gaslighting at the hands of Mia and Xavier in order to find the only path that leads to survival.
Asher is gaslit and drugged and gaslit to the point where she doesn't understand what is real and what is not. But she does know that her anger towards her abusers cannot be quenched, and she holds onto her anger for dear life. Boy! Is her rage something to behold! I LOVE the level of her rage! There are few female (or male) characters that I've ever read that emote this level of rage.
There is one more installment in this series yet to come. Is the fourth the final book?
Of Vows and War is the third book in The Coveted series, an epic romantic fantasy about a fae princess with a dark power and her fight to save the world—even if that means becoming the villain to do so.
Book three has our band of heathens separated and reeling. Asher in particular is forced to acknowledge her mistakes and decide if she wishes to dig her way free of the grave she has buried herself in, or simply—finally—give up. Bellamy, on the other hand, is determined to do anything but give in. As their world nears destruction and other worlds decide they might want in on the action, both MCs are pushed to the very edge.
Book three is by far the heaviest, with the mental health portion reaching an all-time high. I think it’s important for me to acknowledge that first and foremost, that’s what these books are. Yes it is a fantasy series with romantic and dark elements, but the focus—the star—is the theme of mental health. My characters are not just broken, they’re shattered. This book is about the moment you realize you are torn—ripped—smashed—demolished beyond repair. It’s the heartbreaking and devastating conclusion that you cannot be fixed. More than that, it’s the choice to continue on despite that fact. Asher is the culmination of every ounce of pain I’ve ever felt. Every lie I’ve been told. Every painful word I’ve been offered. Every hit I’ve endured. The hatred I was awarded in place of love. The fights that I lost. Asher is me in so many ways, and I hope that the people out there like me find solace in this continuation of her story. That they fight alongside her.
If you like meddling gods, political intrigue, morally grey leads, swoon worthy romance, big reveals, dragons, pirates, and mental health rep, then Of Vows and War is your perfect next read!
Please take the time to read the trigger warnings. If you take away anything from my books, let it be that you are worthy beyond measure and no one’s but your own 🤍
Thank you so much to Brea Lamb for the gifted arc 🫶🏼 this is my favorite book of the series so far!! It felt like so many things came together and we got so many answers in this book. It made me so happy to see how much Asher has grown since the first book. Her situation for the first half of this book was pretty abysmal, but she was so strong. The gaslighting that Mia and Xavier put her through had me questioning everything too. Bellamy was the best as usual. The side characters in this series truly shine. I ended up loving Sterling SO MUCH. There was never a chapter POV that I didn’t love. I find Stassi’s chapters to be so fun—being in her head is so interesting. The ending of this one absolutely broke my heart. Asher’s been through so much just let her be happy already 😭 I can’t wait to see where this story goes in the next book. This is becoming such a great, complex fantasy series!!
As this series progresses, Brea continues to wreck me in the best way possible! I’m not sure there are enough words to adequately describe the love I have for this series and these characters.
Asher’s journey has been one of immense grief and sorrow. But also one of such strength, love, and hope. The growth she has displayed throughout is such a testament to her character and the acceptance of one’s self.
The chemistry between her and Bellamy is electric and I fall more in love with them with every turn of the page. The way that he loves her so fiercely, while also challenging her and allowing her to stand on her own shows his own growth as well. This man is everything and must be protected at all costs!
Healing is never a linear experience, but despite the many setbacks, Asher had found a family worth leaning on. There are no side character here, as each and everyone plays such an important role in her recovery and future. I loved the multiple POV, as well as the introduction to some new characters that already illicit some strong reactions!
There are so many secrets we are still uncovering, and with an ending that once again left me gasping for breath, I cannot wait to see what comes next!
The diverse cast of characters in this one was absolute perfection. Whether it's a new character or an OG there is something different to love about all of them. I love how real they feel, like I know them.
The journey Asher continues to grow through is heartbreaking and enduring. Chapter 49 made me feel so seen. I do not want to give any spoilers but I felt that and appreciate the way you wrote panic, grief, guilt, and sadness. We all have our own scars. Pain that we feel we deserve. 💔😭
The plot to spice ratio is absolutely 100% exactly what I need in a book.
Tears of happiness, tears of sadness and many many laughs.
I NEED the next book 😩!! Also I looooove Sterling and Asher's relationship.
I'll leave this with two quotes I loved...
"Pain is your friend, an old companion. It cannot win if you do not let it."
"I am of the belief that there are few things in life that can beat fate and chance and whatever lies in between the two. But this, Bell - you, me, us - we are eternal."
First of all, I want to thank the incredibly talented Brea Lamb for gifting me the ARC of Vows and War. I feel so incredibly blessed to have discovered her work because this series has completely captivated me. I had no idea just how deeply immersed I would become in this world.
Brea’s writing pulls you right in, making you feel every emotion and live every moment alongside the characters. Asher, our fierce and determined main female character, is someone I admired deeply for her strength and loyalty to those she loves. And Bellamy… he’s the kind of male lead who will burn the world down for Asher, and I absolutely adored him for it.
The spice in this book? Phenomenal! It’s not only sizzling between Asher and Bellamy but also shines through with the side characters. Brea does an incredible job weaving these secondary storylines into the bigger picture, creating a world where every character feels essential and connected.
This series just keeps getting better and better with each book. I laughed, I cried, and I couldn’t put it down. The character development was outstanding, and Vows and War is hands down my favorite of them all.
If you’re looking for a series that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster, with unforgettable characters and a storyline that keeps you hooked from start to finish, this is it. I’m officially obsessed!
Tropes:
🖤 Found Family 🖤 Multiple POVs 🖤 Fae•Demons•Humans•Gods 🖤 Intricate Magic System 🖤 Political Intrigue 🖤 Dragons
Throughout the series, Princess Asher has been forced to confront deep detrayals, uncover long-kept secrets, and endure trauma in every form. And with war on the horizon, rescue missions, and powerful enemies, the stakes are higher than ever.
Series tropes: 👀 Multi POV ⚔️ St@bby FMC 🔥 Burn the world for her MMC 👤 Shadow magic 🩶 Morally grey MCs 🧑🧑🧒🧒 Found family 🤝 Unlikely alliances 🫥 Hidden identities 🐈⬛ Mythical creatures 🌶️ Moderate to high
This series and characters have captured my heart. Brea seamlessly weaves multiple storylines and POVs together in Of Vows and War. While the book centers on Asher, the other characters also play key roles in what’s to come.
I appreciated seeing how love and healing take on different forms for each character. Sometimes it’s messy and evolving. The found family bond over their individual and shared losses and love each other fiercely.
Asher’s continued journey of healing and self discovery is one that is both harrowing and powerful. After centuries of manipulation, she struggles with accepting help, her darkness, and putting her needs before others. Bellamy is so devoted and determined to help her see her worth and become who she is meant to be. Their love is epic, healing, and tragic.
Of Vows and War is an achingly moving and impossibly emotional installment in The Coveted series. With the prophecy looming, I am anxiously awaiting what’s in store for our characters.
Huge thanks to the author for the ARC opportunity! This is my honest and voluntary review
"Of Vows and War" by Brea Lamb is nothing short of breathtaking. I’m at a loss for words after finishing this book—it truly blew my mind. As the third installment in The Coveted series, Lamb takes us even deeper into the epic world of Asher and Bellamy. The emotional stakes are higher, the tension is palpable, and the storytelling is mesmerizing. This book has solidified The Coveted series as one of my top 5 all-time favorites. If you're not reading this series yet, what are you waiting for?
Asher’s mental health struggles in Of Vows and War are raw, real, and incredibly powerful. Brea Lamb’s writing brings these battles to life in such a profound way that you feel every moment of Asher’s pain, doubt, and inner turmoil. It’s a portrayal of mental health that resonates deeply, making her journey all the more moving and authentic. Brea’s ability to weave these emotional depths into the story is nothing short of a masterpiece. I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment to see where Asher’s journey takes her next!
In Of Vows and War, loyalties are tested, love is challenged, and destinies collide as Asher and Bellamy face their greatest trials yet. With gripping twists and emotional depth, this book takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through betrayal, sacrifice, and fierce battles.
If you have not read any books in The Coveted series, I urge you to add them to your TBR as soon as possible. I’m truly shocked that I had not heard of this series before last month. Now I just finished book 3 and don’t know what I’ll do with myself as I wait for the next.
For all the bookish people out there who love ACOTAR, TOG, The Plated Prisoner, Serpent and the Wings of Night, etc. you will fall completely in love with this series. It is top tier.
I don’t want to give things away so I’ll keep my comments brief but my god, was this book incredible. My new all time favorite book. I’ve said before that Brea is the Queen of plot twists and I’m that still stands. I did not expect my jaw to be on the ground as much as it was while reading this book. It was shocking in the best way and made the book addicting to read.
I teared up quite a lot during this read but I also laughed a lot. I was giggling out loud in an embarrassing way. I don’t think I’ve read such a heartbreaking and intense and romantic and magical book that is also genuinely funny. It made me feel so connected to characters that I cannot wait to see again in the next book.
I can’t say enough good things about this book.
Favorite quotes: “It is Asher Daniox, you stupid bitch.” “I will worship at your altar—at your feet—until I am dead.”
I had the absolute pleasure of reading an early copy of this book. The third installment in The Coveted series and I am definitely still not over it.
This book was so raw, and deep, and real. There is violence and heartbreak, but also hope and love and healing.
Asher's journey is not one for the faint of heart. This series touches on some heavy topics and doesn't shy away from the reality of it. Lamb goes deep into the effects of abuse and trauma while still bringing a light to the story.
There were parts where I was laughing out loud. Parts where I was crying, and parts where my heart swelled with the sweet satisfaction of love.
I am absolutely thrilled about the fourth and final book in this series and will be thinking about this one for months, I'm sure. So much story is packed into this third book that I could probably read it again and again and not get bored of it.
Brea Lamb has created a complete unique and complex world with the coolest magics from their gods/high demons.
Bellamy is my new book boyfriend and I need him in my life. Asher is one badass FMC who refuses to let life crush her. She is a fighter, and light, and an inspiration.
If you like Throne of Glass, this is your next read.
This book took me a bit to finish because when Brea warns that this book is super heavy she was not over exaggerating. But I was constantly in awe with everything. The PLOT THICKENS in this book. Once again the twists and reveals were jaw dropping. I honestly think this would be an amazing movie series.
The character development for Asher here is …only word I can think of is scary. I cannot imagine dealing with even a fraction of what she has gone through. Her storyline here was mentally terrifying honestly. I can’t say a lot without spoiling but I wanted to scream into the void for her.
In somewhat happier news, this book introduces PIRATES!!! Pirates are always a fun addition to any fantasy series regardless of the role they play. 😂
It honestly felt near hopeless. I didn’t know what could be done for the characters that I’ve come to love. But we did get some victories that felt relieving. But there is still one more book in the series that is sure to bring more hardships.
This was an amazing third book in The Coveted series! 🔥 Multiple POVs and complicated storylines are my jam, and this book was full of them. I love Brea’s ability to incorporate difficult topics and the darkness of mental health issues in both a delicate and direct way. The characters were vibrant and wonderfully wicked, and the chapters were full of twists and turns. I’d definitely recommend this book to others, especially if you enjoy when different storylines come together and reading a tragedy. There’s many stories with a HEA, which is totally fine, but it’s refreshing to read a story that doesn’t promise a fun, happy ending and has the reader not knowing who is going to survive. I can’t wait to read Brea’s next book! ❤️🔥
Shocked is an understatement when it comes to finding out who Stassi’s creature was—plot twist of the century! And the unexpected friendship between Asher and him? Perfection. The dark humor was top-tier—only this book could make me laugh right after a torture session in the dungeons.
And that moment when he tells her that, besides his family, he has no one but her? My heart! Their friendship was everything I didn’t know I needed.
“I do not fear. I am the thing to fear.”
Just like the FMC, I went from absolutely hating Sterling to wanting to protect that man at all costs.
The way this book answered so many questions… just to throw even more at us?
I had no idea this was going to be more than three books, and now I’m stuck waiting for the last one. Someone send help.
THIS BOOK RIGHT HERE…LITERAL PERFECTION. I was on the edge of my seat for about 90% of this book, okay I can’t lie basically the whole book because I wasn’t sure what tf was going to happen next. It was by far my favorite book in the coveted series so far. Brea killed it with the story, dropping all the answers to the secrets we have all been trying to find the answers to and then maybe added on some more that we need to figure out. The character development in this book was TOP TIER. everything about it was just magnificent. I really can’t express that enough. Asher and Bellamy were as badass as ever plus we got to meet some new bad ass characters as well. I laughed, a lot. I cried, a lot. I screamed, a lot. I seriously cannot wait to see what else Brea has up her sleeve for this world. I know it will be nothing but perfection. 🤍
The Coveted series has turned into one of my favorite series this year. It is packed with so many emotions: feminine rage, found family, many different representations of anxiety, PTSD, family abuse, and what it’s like to be different. But there are also many points where you will laugh because the characters are so damn funny and full of sass. It’s hard to say who my favorite character is in the series so far because, honestly, I love all of them, lol
Now, on to my OVAW ARC review! As I said before, each book is packed with emotions, but OVAW had me emotional so many times. My jaw was on the floor when some of the secrets were revealed. I messaged Brea a few times while reading because I was shocked 😂.
Asher, our fearless girl, I love her so much, and I love the change she’s trying to bring to her world. So much of what she goes through in this book and what you learn makes you want to reach into the book and hug her because our girl has gone through so much pain and suffering.
I won’t say much more because I don’t want to spoil anything, but if you haven’t read this series yet, please do!
Brea continues to write wonderfully endearing characters - and this book makes me want to know them even more. The action and stakes are even higher in this one and I can't wait until the fourth book in the series !
If you're looking for an India author to support- look no further than Brea !
Tropes: ✨Soul Mates ✨Trauma Bonding ✨Fae, Demons, Humans and Gods ✨Found Family ✨Intricate Magic System ✨Political Intrigue ✨Burn the World for You ✨Multiple POV's ✨Morally grey
THOUGHTS: How do you write about a book that altered your brain. When I say that act 1 had me questioning if I skipped a chapter. If you are looking for a effect that metal slinger gave me. I had to shift back to make sure my mind wasn't playing tricks on me. The heartbreak in those last few chapters I am heartbroken for Ash, but I can not wait to see what she does with this rage.
There is A LOT going on in this book, but it is giving you so much at the same time. You are seeing what is going on along the way as they are heading into battle and trying to save the world. You are thrown all around as you see the different POV's and what is going on. But I LOVED watching it all come together and connect and truly seeing each chapter connect.
I have my theories going on in my head about Asher, and it was like a high five to myself when things started to click together. I also am curious about Wrath - I have a theory on his involvement with her losing her mind. But I am still working on this.
CHARACTERS: Asher really takes a turn to the morally grey side in this book...and I am not entirely hating it. There is a fine line between going to far and I don't entirely feel like she has hit that point. But you really see a shift in her this round...and frankly can you blame the girl? Asher is hit with gaslighting multiple times, and I feel for the girl. She can't tell what is real or a trick anymore. Can you say manipulation, and gas light? I was praying for her as I read along, that this wasn't going to be some season 8 of GOT.
Bellamy still holds my heart, doing anything to get his girl. And I mean anything. The love he has for Asher, and the determination that not even taking away his free will is going to stop him from getting to her. MEN TAKE NOTES. I loved seeing the slightly darker side of Bellamy break out a little more, but the patiences and love he holds for Ash. The way he doesn't stop Asher from being herself, but encourages it.
Let's talk other characters:
Stassi - I was iffy on Stassi at first. But I grew to love the relationship she and Ash built, I am excited to see what happens next with them. I don't know why I picture a dark version of Aphrodite with her. A hardened woman who falls for a mortal. I love that she does not care for any of the men she has been with but Sterling.
Gen - Similar to Stassi. I didn't like Gen at first, she was annoying me and just wanted to pinch her lips shut and tell her to mind her business. But she reminds me of Nesta. I love her and Henry's relationship and their love-hate for one another that they just don't want to admit they love one another.
Sterling - How you took a man I hated to being a relationship with Ash I actually love. I love the bond, and friendship they form. And I will let it slide since the man also went through Hell. What a play that was. I love that they form almost a brother sister love, and I am living for the redemption. They are building that trauma bonding.
I loved book one, it is what got me hooked from the start but this book really stole my heart and altered it. I can not wait to see what she does with book 4, and her new book coming out also. Brea you already know how obsessed I have become with this series! I can not wait to see what you have up your sleeve!
OHMYGOD I AM REELING! This might just be the best book I have EVER read. I couldn't put it down. I told my wife she would have to pry it from my dead hands to get me to stop reading (no joke). I am 99% certain Brea put crack in this book because there is just NO way I am THIS obsessed. These books are getting better and better. As a reader, you can tell that every single scene was written with so much thought and care that you can literally feel the emotions of the characters. You will laugh, you will want to throw your kindle, and most importantly, you will cry tears of sadness and tears of joy.
This book felt like a big turning point for Asher as she starts to truly find the best version of herself that she wants to be. She faces SO many obstacles and comes to terms with a lot as far as her healing journey goes. She is learning to accept and love herself as everyone else around her does. She is learning that she IS powerful and deserves happiness. Most importantly, she's learning to hope for a brighter future than the one she was thought to have.
For the first half of this book, my heart physically ACHED for Bellamy. I can't go into detail without spoiling this masterpiece, but just know, this is the kind of man that teaches you not to settle. He loves with his entire heart, body, and soul. And the BEST part?? HE IS NOT AFRAID TO SHOW IT. That's right. A MALE who talks about his feelings and who proves time and time again, he will go to the ends of the worlds for the people he loves.
Asher and Bellamy are end game. Their love story is written in the stars, and their soul-deep connection burns so brightly.
But their love story is not the only one I'm obsessed with in this series! There are a couple others that I am voraciously rooting for! All of these characters balance each other out perfectly in every way. It's amazing to see all the different personalities connect and learn their unique backstories and how they all fit together to build this quintessential found family. I am already LOVING the new characters we were introduced to and can't wait to see how they fit in.
If you were wondering if there was spice? THERE IS! Brea wrote a book full of kinky primal daddies, strong warrior women, and everything in between. So you already KNOW when you bring them all together, not even a hose can douse that fire. Clean-up on aisle me.
We found out SO many answers and secrets from the previous books in this one. Things are slowly falling into place, and you can just tell that this puzzle is going to be MAGNIFICENT. The plot is still twistin, the characters are still growin, and the tension is still steamin. Now, please excuse me while I go beg Brea for the next book.
Of Vows And War (ARC REVIEW) Brea Lamb ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️ 🌶🌶 AVAILABLE NOW
Thank you @brealamb for giving me the absolute privilege of being on your Street team and reading this ARC.
This has been my most anticipated book release of the year, and I can say without doubt what so ever that this book is my top read of the year. I have been counting down to this book since i finished book two, and the waiting was well worth it. Everything about this book is perfection.
Asher is going through so much once again in this book. The growth she has gone through since book one and the strength she has now is inspirational. I love that even though she is still healing from past and current hurts plus so many betrayals by people she thought were her family, she knows that she has to and wants to fight and is willing to do anything for the people she loves. She is not going to take things lying down anymore and has come fully into her badass queen phase.
Bellamy is my absolute favorite male charcater in any romantasy book I have read. The absolute devotion he has for Asher is beyond an obsession, and I am here for it 100%! He has always been her biggest supporter, and now that he has her back, he is not going to let anyone take her away again. He is the definition of a morally grey MMC with touch her and die vibes that would do anything for his beloved. I also really loved how we get to see his vulnerable side more in this book. He is a charcater that feels so much, and when it comes to Asher, those emotions are dialed up to 100.
Brea Lamb has an amazing talent of writing such beautiful stories with amazing characters that you get so incredibly invested in. The attention to detail and the amount of emotions that go into these characters and the journey they are going through will have you feeling everything right along with them. This is by no means a easy going read. While our charcaters get moments of happiness, they also deal with very real heartbreaking and devastating moments of pain as well. I think that is what makes this book along with the first two so special. Brea Lamb doesn't hold back, and in doing that, she has written something amazing.
This series is still ongoing, and just like for book 3, I am now counting down until book 4 is in my hands, and I can continue this incredibly emotional journey with this group of characters.
I am emotionally damaged, but in the best way possible! Of Vows and War is hands down my favorite book in The Coveted series so far—Brea Lamb has truly outdone herself! This book had me questioning everything, and the way it tackles heavy topics like trauma and abuse, yet still manages to bring light and hope, is remarkable.
The stakes are higher than ever as Asher, our fierce FMC, is tortured and imprisoned by Mia and Xavier, whom she once considered family. Asher’s journey is a rollercoaster of pain and growth, and the emotional depth of her character is incredible to read. Her relationship with Bellamy, the MMC, is so beautifully written. Even though their love is tested by magic and circumstances, their reunion is worth the heartache. The trauma Asher endures feels real and raw, and Bellamy’s unwavering support and love for her is the glue that holds it all together.
The plot itself is filled with twists, and the intrigue deepens with the return of Stassi, a High Demon, and the introduction of Perdita, a fierce pirate captain. I loved seeing more of these characters, especially Perdita’s representation of sign language. Plus, I had the honor of helping create a character for this book through a giveaway, and seeing CJ in action was so exciting, and I can’t wait to see how she fits into the next books!
There are some shocking moments and emotional whiplash, but the romance between Asher and Bellamy provides a beautiful balance to the darkness! One of my favorite moments was Asher getting her scars tattooed back onto her skin—it was such a powerful, healing moment in the book. The book ends with a heart-wrenching cliffhanger, and I’m absolutely dying to see where the next book will take us!
This book is raw, real, and filled with love, pain, and hope. I can’t recommend Of Vows and War enough! Bellamy and Asher have stolen my heart, and I’m scared to see what’s next, but I can’t wait for it!
Please note: This book deals with heavy topics like torture, abuse (physical and mental), gaslighting, and more. Be sure to check the content warnings before diving in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
@brealambauthor you have simply outdone yourself. OVAW is your best book yet. A breathtaking fantasy with so much trauma and a beautiful romance.
OVAW is Vol. 3 of The Coveted Series. WOW what a stunning whirlwind of emotions. I fished last night and I swear I needed time to proceed and grieve.
The growth in the writing in this series and the growth in characters is just phenomenal.
I said it with book 2 and I’ll say it again this time the characters and side characters are so complex and have been through so much trauma. Seeing them working through it this book was like secondhand therapy.
While Asher & Bellamy are absolutely everything, I love the side characters so much and I’m really looking forward to exploring more of their stories as the series continues.
OVAW is fantasy first but has such beautiful romance. Bellamy continues to be a perfect swoon worthy angel (even though he’s a demon) there are so many things that would drive me nuts IRL but absolutely swoon over with Bell.
With OVAW there was never a dull moment. There was so much going on the whole time and I was fully invested in each and every POV. So many things have come together from the beginning of the series wrapped up nicely and setting up for the next book.
It got to a point where things were going too well and everyone was too happy, it was ✨suspicious✨…..and then of course, right on cue @brealambauthor ripped out my heart and stomped on it.
This book was very heavy on the mental health. @brealambauthor was so upfront with triggers and provided chapter summaries for the heaviest chapters allowing readers to skip triggering content while still enjoying the story and not missing anything. That was really unique and thoughtful to readers.
I am sad that’s it’s over for now. I need the next book so bad. Luckily I have time to grieve until the next book because I am thoroughly wrecked in the best way possible.
....I have been sitting, staring at this screen, trying to gather every thought, emotion, and word I could possibly garner and squish together for this review, and it feels nearly impossible to fit such an endless spectrum into a set amount of words, but I'll try. Of Night and Blood was such a beautiful debut novel, setting the stage for The Coveted world. Of Realms and Chaos swept in and took it to the next level, with love, loss, new characters, and enemies old and new (AND THAT DAMN CLIFF HANGER!) Then there's this book, this GODS DAMN MASTERPIECE, that will forever be seared into my brain. I don't know what I did more: laugh, cry, yell, swoon, kick my feet while cheesing?! The fact that Brea can elicit such a range of emotions during such a sometimes heavy-themed book is such a testament to her writing skill. All I want to do is talk about this series--and this book in particular-- with anyone and everyone, but since I must keep this spoiler-free, I'll give some amazing funzies about Of Vows and War.
*Multiple POV -- and there are some REALLY fun ones (I'm looking at you Stassi and Perdita) *We learn more about the Gods and Goddesses *We're introduced to new characters. Did someone say pirates? *Lots of stabby angry manipulator Ash babe *Bellamy being the most perfect, most possessive Bellamy he can be when it comes to Asher. It's on repeat in my mind forever. Read the book; you'll know what I mean. *DRAGONS *FOUND DAMILY. I cannot stress this enough *Equal amounts big sad and big happy. So so so much of both. *There are some really heavy themes in some of the chapters, so please please PLEASEAAA read the trigger warnings babes
Alexa, play Le Monde so I can think of that one scene where Bellamy has Asher strung up....
“Pain is your friend, an old companion. It cannot win if you do not let it”
This is one of my favorite quotes out of this book because it truly helps capture Asher and how she goes through SO MUCH PAIN in this book and she has her moments where everything happens but she still is able to move forward. She has scars, she fights battles, she struggles with the aftermath, and she still loves and doesn’t lose her heart. She is such a complicated character and I am obsessed. She also gives the perfect amount of feminine rage and there’s one scene where she unleashes that hardcore and it’s my fav.
All the characters in this book are beautifully diverse and deep characters. Nobody is just good, nobody is just bad, nobody is only evil. There’s so much to every character and it makes you spin and have to really think about each of the characters which makes it even harder to know what is gonna happen and how each of them are gonna turn out by the end of this series (which I love).
There are also some amazing world building with the gods like Padon and Stassi and their dragons and the politics from those give another layer to these books! And in this book the gods really come into play and makes sense for all the building and is like OHHHHHHHH
There’s always something that hurts at the end, Brea isn’t afraid to hurt her characters but it makes it so much more real of a story and of a book. I freaked so much at the end I scared my dog out of a deep sleep lol
I could not recommend this series and specifically this book enough. Asher my girl you are one of my all time fav FMC.
The first 50% of the book, I wanted to cry, throw up, hug Asher and Bellamy, punch some fictional characters, and definitely yell. Did I mention I wanted to cry? I’ve become so attached to these characters that the first half of this book was so hard to read because their suffering became my suffering.
The rest of this book caused much more pleasant emotions, so sorry if you got scared by my lovely last paragraph.
I’m so in love with these characters. Bellamy and Ash have my heart, and I’m so scared for what most definitely is coming in the next book.
This book deals with some incredibly heavy topics, including torture, abuse (physical and mental), gaslighting, suicide attempts, assault, and other heavy topics. I recommend checking out content warnings and definitely just skipping to the chapter summaries for this chapter if these upset you. I don’t normally warn about content warnings, but this book is incredibly heavy, so I want everyone to be aware.
I read both the regular chapters and the summary chapters, and you don’t miss out on anything important by not reading the chapters fully.
That being said, I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait for the next. Everyone should absolutely check out this series who is a fan of From Blood and Ash, because it definitely gives Poppy and Casteel vibes.
Thank you so very much to Brea Lamb for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and were in no way influenced by the manner in which I received this book.
“More pain than ever seemed to sit heavy upon him. A lifetime worth of loss so substantial that it was crushing his heart.”
“There were few things in life harder than acknowledging the utter humanity of your enemy.”
“A realm divided was a realm prime for conquering, after all.”
“The future was a horrifying beast yet to ever be defeated. We would all die at its hands someday. Some of us sooner than others.”
Wow, wow, wow. What can be said of OVAW? Lamb has really done it again - created spaces for readers to mourn the tragedies endured by their favorite literary power couple (and their chosen family), and spaces to celebrate right alongside them during moments of happiness.
I was comforted by old favorite characters, and met some new favorites along the way. Things really felt like they came full-circle in Volume III. Answers to a lot of questions were revealed and so many characters rounded their arcs.
You can really tell how Brea loves and treasures each character she writes - everyone in this world is so very gray, in the most delightful ways. No corner is ignored when she develops a new character - she continues to write beautifully complex, inclusive, and relatable characters. I promise, you will find yourself somewhere (or maybe many places) within her work.
Stellar work again, Brea. I cannot sing your praises loudly enough on this one!
I went into this book certain that book two would be my favorite, and was promptly proven wrong. This book consumed me and left me reeling. I was already firmly in love with the characters and the fantastic world-building as the threads of fate slowly formed a clearer picture of the foretold prophecy of Asher’s role as both savior and doom. I was already entirely invested in Asher’s fight for freedom and justice and her chance at happiness with Bellamy, no matter how long it may last. This book hooked me in even further with the multiple points of view, the intricate weaving of fate, and the thrilling, mind-warping aspect of the mental manipulation Asher faced in The Capital. The chapters were expertly laid in such a way that I tore through the pages in horror, constantly reminding myself alongside our valiant FMC that I knew what was real. I’ve never been so desperate to get to the next chapter (and the next, and the next) as I was during Asher’s time captive in the golden palace. There were so many beautiful moments I treasured reading this book, and once again Lamb pulled such exquisite waves of emotions from me as I lived through these adventures with now beloved characters. This series has definitely become one of my favorites and I CANNOT wait to see what becomes of Betovere, Eoforhild, The Mortal Realm, and Shamay!
I'll be honest and say that there were some aspects of this book, and series as a whole, that worked for me. For example, the found family trope was beautifully done in this book. Also, Sterling was an amazing cinnamon roll character, and I found myself invested in his story and desire to explore, learn, and see the world. (My hope is that he does get his happily-ever-after!)
That being said, this was perhaps my first dive into what many might call "dark-romance". More specifically, the trigger warnings for things like blood play and BDSM should be taken seriously as they are VERY present throughout the book. Now, I do understand that such things are a matter of personal preference, but reading this book has cemented in my mind that these things are just not something I enjoy reading about. It wasn't that they were hard scenes to read persay, they just sort of disgusted me (to be honest). This made some of the more romantic moments, like the wedding scenes, hard to connect with because I couldn't take the emotional attachment seriously. I mean, how do you engage in BDSM and blood play, and then claim that same person is the love of your life. To me it just doesn't make sense.
But while I may not be the target audience for this book and series I do wish the best for all who are eagerly awaiting book four.