What do you think?
Rate this book
Vow of the Undead
She has until first light to answer the Call of the Gods, or marry a monster.
After making an unforgivable mistake, Silver must do the king’s bidding. Except all he wants is to claim her as his own.
When Silver discovers he’s a cruel vampire who will stop at nothing to make her his queen, she flees the arranged marriage only to catch the eyes of the Gods. Despite her constant illness and anxiety, her ability to listen to her body, adapt, and endure the battle within her makes her the perfect huntress the Gods need to destroy every existing vampire.
All it takes is one kill, one stake to any vampire's heart, and she’ll be bound to her duty as a huntress until all monsters are eradicated. With the king coming to drag her to the altar, Silver is ready to step into the Call and become the huntress who can stop him, until she meets Kayn, a stalker who connects with her over their tortured pasts. Because of his secret, everything she knows about their kind unravels…including the vampire king’s motives.
Now she’s falling for the enemy, when the only way to save herself is to kill them.
A monster and his huntress. A Calling designed to destroy them.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer meets Vikings.
VOW OF THE UNDEAD is a vampire romantasy in a Viking-inspired world.
*Chosen One
*"My wife"
*Claimed
*Enemies-to-lovers
*Fated to destroy each other
*Arranged marriage
For fans of L.J. Andrews, Danielle L. Jensen, Sadie Kincaid, Scarlett St. Clair, and Carissa Broadbent.
After making an unforgivable mistake, Silver must do the king’s bidding. Except all he wants is to claim her as his own.
When Silver discovers he’s a cruel vampire who will stop at nothing to make her his queen, she flees the arranged marriage only to catch the eyes of the Gods. Despite her constant illness and anxiety, her ability to listen to her body, adapt, and endure the battle within her makes her the perfect huntress the Gods need to destroy every existing vampire.
All it takes is one kill, one stake to any vampire's heart, and she’ll be bound to her duty as a huntress until all monsters are eradicated. With the king coming to drag her to the altar, Silver is ready to step into the Call and become the huntress who can stop him, until she meets Kayn, a stalker who connects with her over their tortured pasts. Because of his secret, everything she knows about their kind unravels…including the vampire king’s motives.
Now she’s falling for the enemy, when the only way to save herself is to kill them.
A monster and his huntress. A Calling designed to destroy them.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer meets Vikings.
VOW OF THE UNDEAD is a vampire romantasy in a Viking-inspired world.
*Chosen One
*"My wife"
*Claimed
*Enemies-to-lovers
*Fated to destroy each other
*Arranged marriage
For fans of L.J. Andrews, Danielle L. Jensen, Sadie Kincaid, Scarlett St. Clair, and Carissa Broadbent.
438 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2025
141 people are currently reading
1694 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
August 22, 2025
Tropes
🖤witches
🖤vampires
🖤Gods
🖤love triangle
🖤huntress
🖤Norse mythology
🖤found family
This one would have been great if it had been multiple POV just reading from the MFC was actually hard. I struggled to relate with her. She started out determined and I had hoped her character would have growth, but she fell flat to me.
The two male leads I felt had more growth. I’m not sure if there was supposed to be two male leads but it definitely went that way. I’m not a fan of love triangles they get too messy and this one was all over the place.
The story line has a lot of promise. Some things I felt were left unexplained which made it difficult to put the pieces together. I felt the story was leading one way and adventured another rushing make things confusing. That was the only reason for the 4 stars. I had to work to hard.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
🖤witches
🖤vampires
🖤Gods
🖤love triangle
🖤huntress
🖤Norse mythology
🖤found family
This one would have been great if it had been multiple POV just reading from the MFC was actually hard. I struggled to relate with her. She started out determined and I had hoped her character would have growth, but she fell flat to me.
The two male leads I felt had more growth. I’m not sure if there was supposed to be two male leads but it definitely went that way. I’m not a fan of love triangles they get too messy and this one was all over the place.
The story line has a lot of promise. Some things I felt were left unexplained which made it difficult to put the pieces together. I felt the story was leading one way and adventured another rushing make things confusing. That was the only reason for the 4 stars. I had to work to hard.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 2, 2025
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice:🌶️🌶️
If you’re looking for vampire, Norse mythology, witches, plot twists, romance, and an ending that’ll leave you dangling off a cliff then Vow of the Undead is absolutely a must read!
There were many elements of this book that I really liked! The characters individually were intriguing and kept me on my toes. Silver was great and I’m really interested in where book two might take her, especially after all the twists, turns, and stumbles she took to get where she is. I also like Draks character, morally grey and possessive for sure but I think he could really grow into an amazing character and I’d love to see some more chapters from his POV. The world-building was absolutely stunning, there wasn’t a detail left out and you’ll be able to paint a picture of every scene in this book so clearly in your head. All of it together just made for an interesting read that I can’t wait to see what happens in boon two!
A few things that ripped me out of the story though were things like when our characters had clear cut motives/intentions, or even game plans and on a dime they’d throw it all out the window and switch up. This got a little confusing at times with me trying to understand why the switch up.
I also loved our two main characters, Silver and Drak, but there were times when the chemistry between them just fell short, it was like in some moment it was sparking off the page but in others I felt like all the tension and chemistry had been lost. I feel like maybe the pacing of their romance just felt off to me, I won’t say that I didn’t love the romance between them because I’m honestly intrigued to see how it might progress in book two, I just personally had a few moments where it was like sparks were flying and everything was great and then suddenly their was a bucket of water dumped on them and the romance would come to a screeching halt.
Overall this was an interesting read and I’m quite intrigued to see what’s to come with these characters and the questions that have been left unanswered in book two!
Spice:🌶️🌶️
If you’re looking for vampire, Norse mythology, witches, plot twists, romance, and an ending that’ll leave you dangling off a cliff then Vow of the Undead is absolutely a must read!
There were many elements of this book that I really liked! The characters individually were intriguing and kept me on my toes. Silver was great and I’m really interested in where book two might take her, especially after all the twists, turns, and stumbles she took to get where she is. I also like Draks character, morally grey and possessive for sure but I think he could really grow into an amazing character and I’d love to see some more chapters from his POV. The world-building was absolutely stunning, there wasn’t a detail left out and you’ll be able to paint a picture of every scene in this book so clearly in your head. All of it together just made for an interesting read that I can’t wait to see what happens in boon two!
A few things that ripped me out of the story though were things like when our characters had clear cut motives/intentions, or even game plans and on a dime they’d throw it all out the window and switch up. This got a little confusing at times with me trying to understand why the switch up.
I also loved our two main characters, Silver and Drak, but there were times when the chemistry between them just fell short, it was like in some moment it was sparking off the page but in others I felt like all the tension and chemistry had been lost. I feel like maybe the pacing of their romance just felt off to me, I won’t say that I didn’t love the romance between them because I’m honestly intrigued to see how it might progress in book two, I just personally had a few moments where it was like sparks were flying and everything was great and then suddenly their was a bucket of water dumped on them and the romance would come to a screeching halt.
Overall this was an interesting read and I’m quite intrigued to see what’s to come with these characters and the questions that have been left unanswered in book two!
August 19, 2025
This is definitely a book that would have been better in multiple POV. The FML was definitely really annoying. I hated that she thought all the negative things against the King no matter how up front he was on most things. But she believed and went running back to the other guy even after learning he lied and what his true plans were. He says he changed his mind and she gobbled that right up. But nothing but negativity towards the king. Shes a hypocrite for sure cause what she did to her own sister is so much worse than the things the king did. At least he didn’t do it to his own flesh and blood. She’s even worse for the simple fact she can’t keep her legs closed 🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️
August 7, 2025
In general, this has all the pieces to be awesome, plot twists, so many layers, excitement, vampires. It had so much going for it. But I found this book to be so confusing and inconsistent. It seemed like everyone went back and forth with what they wanted and what they were going to do. Plans/intentions/goals changed on a dime out of the blue. It was hard to keep up with.
The objective of the first trial wasn’t very clear so the fact that she was even doing a trial was not obvious. What exactly was the result of the trial? What did she gain or learn from it?
I’m also confused about why she would escape the castle (the first time pre-wedding). Didn’t the gods give her a vision that said “go to the vampire king”? So why would she leave the king? Wasn’t her whole plan to get the history she believes is in the castle somewhere to help free the witches? So why would she (very suddenly) abandon that plan?
I felt her escape with Stasia was too easy. Two humans snuck out of a castle teeming with vampires who have supernatural hearing? (At least I assume vampires have super natural hearing since their supernatural abilities were never really listed and ultimately it’s the author’s choice. But I would have liked to know specifically what these vampires were capable of.) And she cut her face on the rose bush and no one scented that blood? The king wants her, why would he let her go so easily? And they left so suddenly, no prep whatsoever. She just went to the kitchen, found Stasia, and they left. Boom, done. Silver didn’t have proper clothing or food and winter is in the air and she expects to survive in the winter wilderness for weeks on end (because at this point she was planning to go back home) (without a horse so probably even longer)?
76% in and I’m having a hard time understanding why the king “admired” her so much, he’s hardly spoken to her and hardly spent any time with her, other than their shared horseback ride to the castle. Where did this admiration come from? This feels underdeveloped.
I’m also confused about the Polar Nocturne. At first they made it seem like it was an event that lasted a long time because people in Silver’s village, and Silver herself, were worried about starving and the weather and the crops…and now it seems like it was only a 9 day event because it said their wedding would be at the end of the polar nocturne.
One minute she says Odin gave her the gift of strength. Then the next minute she says she’s seeing black dots in her vision and feeling weak and Kayn says something about “you have to complete the trial to get Odin’s gift.” Okay so did Odin give her the gift of strength or what? Then it says she used Odin’s strength to kill that female vampire Astrid in the woods after they escaped from the wedding …so she did already have that gift. Again, confusing.
Also it said her blood made the vampires burn (so they couldn’t drink from her), but it also said before that a vampire bit her wrist at the wedding when everything got chaotic. Why didn’t that vampire burn? Confusing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2025
Oof… this was rough.
This has all the makings of an epic saga, but truthfully, I’m not sure it was executed well.
I couldn’t connect with any of our characters and feel like perhaps multiple POVs would have been helpful.
I absolutely HATED our FMC and her back and forth, hot and cold, double standards, and all her whiny nonsense. She would run to whichever MMC pissed her off less at the time. The king never lied to her, but she ran away from him for (I’m not even sure why) and ran toward Kayne (repeatedly) even after finding out he lied to her. Plus she opens her legs for anyone. *eye roll*
I’m not sure why the king was smitten with her as they spent a whole 20 minutes together before demanding marriage because “he couldn’t bare to let her die” which would happen if they didn’t get married.
The gods told her to go with the king (repeatedly) and as far as she knew, the king was the king yet she kept pushing back against him, even though he showed her the history that she needed.
I didn’t understand the trials. Once I caught on that she’d have three of them, I thought I’d manage. But we got to know what Freya’s trial was… then all of a sudden she is in Loki’s trial and I never remembered her getting that one. Then suddenly she’s in Oden’s trial and every one knows what it is except the reader. Then suddenly she had Oden’s strength, next she has to complete the trial to get odens strength (but I thought she already had it, because she said so) then she kills a vampire “with Oden’s strength” and “gets Oden’s strength” afterward??? I’m so confused!
Adding to the confusion, she refuses to be the huntress, then refers to herself as the huntress, then gets mad at others for calling her the huntress (even though you just called yourself that) because she hasn’t completed the trials to be the huntress, but then refers to herself as the huntress as she supposedly completes the trial (that reader didn’t know about) to become the huntress.
It wasn’t clear until the authors note that the FMC had anxiety and chronic illness, it was just made out that they were side effects from pushing herself too hard to get a vision.
I also felt that we repeated things. A LOT! I get it, you did something horrible. I get it, you want to communicate with the gods. I get it, you think the king is a monster (even though you just run to another monster who lied to you). I get it, you miss your mom. I get it, you need to complete the trial. JUST DO IT ALREADY!
I wanted to love this. And I really thought I would. But I’m not sure I’ll be continuing this series. It was too painful and took a month to get through.
- I received this book as an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This has all the makings of an epic saga, but truthfully, I’m not sure it was executed well.
I couldn’t connect with any of our characters and feel like perhaps multiple POVs would have been helpful.
I absolutely HATED our FMC and her back and forth, hot and cold, double standards, and all her whiny nonsense. She would run to whichever MMC pissed her off less at the time. The king never lied to her, but she ran away from him for (I’m not even sure why) and ran toward Kayne (repeatedly) even after finding out he lied to her. Plus she opens her legs for anyone. *eye roll*
I’m not sure why the king was smitten with her as they spent a whole 20 minutes together before demanding marriage because “he couldn’t bare to let her die” which would happen if they didn’t get married.
The gods told her to go with the king (repeatedly) and as far as she knew, the king was the king yet she kept pushing back against him, even though he showed her the history that she needed.
I didn’t understand the trials. Once I caught on that she’d have three of them, I thought I’d manage. But we got to know what Freya’s trial was… then all of a sudden she is in Loki’s trial and I never remembered her getting that one. Then suddenly she’s in Oden’s trial and every one knows what it is except the reader. Then suddenly she had Oden’s strength, next she has to complete the trial to get odens strength (but I thought she already had it, because she said so) then she kills a vampire “with Oden’s strength” and “gets Oden’s strength” afterward??? I’m so confused!
Adding to the confusion, she refuses to be the huntress, then refers to herself as the huntress, then gets mad at others for calling her the huntress (even though you just called yourself that) because she hasn’t completed the trials to be the huntress, but then refers to herself as the huntress as she supposedly completes the trial (that reader didn’t know about) to become the huntress.
It wasn’t clear until the authors note that the FMC had anxiety and chronic illness, it was just made out that they were side effects from pushing herself too hard to get a vision.
I also felt that we repeated things. A LOT! I get it, you did something horrible. I get it, you want to communicate with the gods. I get it, you think the king is a monster (even though you just run to another monster who lied to you). I get it, you miss your mom. I get it, you need to complete the trial. JUST DO IT ALREADY!
I wanted to love this. And I really thought I would. But I’m not sure I’ll be continuing this series. It was too painful and took a month to get through.
- I received this book as an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2025
Once I started this book I could not put it down. One of my favorite types of books are those that blend mythology with a unique fantasy world and I loved this one because you always see Greek, Roman, or Egyptian mythology and Norse mythology is not as common but just as intriguing. It also gives a Buffy the vampire slayer vibes. The story moves at a steady pace and while towards the end I felt like there was a lot of indecision and back and forth with Silver, I think in later books there will be a reason in the end. Overall I highly recommend given this book a read!
August 5, 2025
Awesome book! I really enjoyed it and highly recommend!
August 31, 2025
I wanted to love this so much but I just couldn't get into it. The storyline was a bit confusing. I liked the vampire lore but aside from that, it was just too slow for me.
August 20, 2025
A VAMPIRIC MUST READ
If I could give 4.5, I would...
Silver is a witch, her kind being hunted and executed. Though, more frequently people are being executed for a simple spillage of a drop of blood as if to set a public example for a zero tolerance of violence. Weapons are forbidden. Fighting is forbidden. Except if you're the king and his courtiers and his men, rules don't apply to them in the same capacity but why? Why the law on no blood spilled to begin with? Why are witches beind hunted and sent to the wastelands in external exile that ends in terrible demise. And what of the Kings visit? What of his claim upon Silver? What are his motives, his wants, his interests? Why does Silver feel attraction towards him, towards a man that would order witches- likewise to Silver- enteral ends? Why does he save her, spare her, propose to her? What does this cruel king want with a black-eyed witch who hears voices from the gods? What is he, his courtiers and his men? Who are the real monsters? Silver or the king or someone else? All those answers and more are answered in the book, leaving more questions yet lingering on my lips.
"The darkness in me called to the monster in him-- I wanted him to call me his wife again."
This book is a worldwind of excitement, would building, plot thickening and bloodied scenes. The FMC, Silver, is a strong spirited but guilt ridden woman. The MMC, seems like, is Drak- the cruel monstrous king who has no remorse to whom he unalives- but does care deeply and possessively about Silver in a 'I dislike everyone but you' sort of vibe whilst still being the flirty villain. Definitely morally grey.
"I'll either marry you or k*ll you, Silver, and I'd really hate to do the latter."
'"Honestly? F*ck whatever you think is wrong with you, Lux. I want all of you." All of me. He accepted my darkness-- I was a huntress, a predator, shaped by the need for survival.'
There's a couple twists towards the end for you all to sink your teeth into, there's a few spicy scenes to indulge your bloodied cravings and the words keep you enraptured in this vampiric world.
One throne, one fate, and one deadly choice.
Not sure about Kayn, to be honest, I don't particularly like love triangles so we'll see where that goes.
"With my hand in his, I wasn't doing this alone."
"Because he knew me, knew of my darkness, knew of my destiny to k*ll- even him- and still he cared for me."
This book definitely has enemies to lovers, forced marriage vibes with King Drak. But it also has magic, Gods and Goddesses, stakes, trials of power, buffy the vampire slayer vibes, found family, witches and vampires, vikings lore, romantasy elements, chronic illness rep, and so much more.
So far, I'm intrigued by Drak, I'm a sucker for the morally grey who would die for the FMC.
'My mouth parted. He wanted me to stake him? "You should determine your own future and if this is what you really want, I'm here for it."'
I throughly enjoyed this book and I'm eager to read book after that ending with Drak and... Lux, I'm so here for it.
"Why did I want him to drag me to him? For him to consume me? Because we never finished what we started. Something, inexplicable drew me to him."
Thank you so much, Elsa Frey, for the ARC opportunity. I recommend this must read book 1 of the Bloodrune Saga, first of a potential trilogy, so add it to your TBR now.
Next book: Wrath of the Ruined coming soon!
If I could give 4.5, I would...
Silver is a witch, her kind being hunted and executed. Though, more frequently people are being executed for a simple spillage of a drop of blood as if to set a public example for a zero tolerance of violence. Weapons are forbidden. Fighting is forbidden. Except if you're the king and his courtiers and his men, rules don't apply to them in the same capacity but why? Why the law on no blood spilled to begin with? Why are witches beind hunted and sent to the wastelands in external exile that ends in terrible demise. And what of the Kings visit? What of his claim upon Silver? What are his motives, his wants, his interests? Why does Silver feel attraction towards him, towards a man that would order witches- likewise to Silver- enteral ends? Why does he save her, spare her, propose to her? What does this cruel king want with a black-eyed witch who hears voices from the gods? What is he, his courtiers and his men? Who are the real monsters? Silver or the king or someone else? All those answers and more are answered in the book, leaving more questions yet lingering on my lips.
"The darkness in me called to the monster in him-- I wanted him to call me his wife again."
This book is a worldwind of excitement, would building, plot thickening and bloodied scenes. The FMC, Silver, is a strong spirited but guilt ridden woman. The MMC, seems like, is Drak- the cruel monstrous king who has no remorse to whom he unalives- but does care deeply and possessively about Silver in a 'I dislike everyone but you' sort of vibe whilst still being the flirty villain. Definitely morally grey.
"I'll either marry you or k*ll you, Silver, and I'd really hate to do the latter."
'"Honestly? F*ck whatever you think is wrong with you, Lux. I want all of you." All of me. He accepted my darkness-- I was a huntress, a predator, shaped by the need for survival.'
There's a couple twists towards the end for you all to sink your teeth into, there's a few spicy scenes to indulge your bloodied cravings and the words keep you enraptured in this vampiric world.
One throne, one fate, and one deadly choice.
Not sure about Kayn, to be honest, I don't particularly like love triangles so we'll see where that goes.
"With my hand in his, I wasn't doing this alone."
"Because he knew me, knew of my darkness, knew of my destiny to k*ll- even him- and still he cared for me."
This book definitely has enemies to lovers, forced marriage vibes with King Drak. But it also has magic, Gods and Goddesses, stakes, trials of power, buffy the vampire slayer vibes, found family, witches and vampires, vikings lore, romantasy elements, chronic illness rep, and so much more.
So far, I'm intrigued by Drak, I'm a sucker for the morally grey who would die for the FMC.
'My mouth parted. He wanted me to stake him? "You should determine your own future and if this is what you really want, I'm here for it."'
I throughly enjoyed this book and I'm eager to read book after that ending with Drak and... Lux, I'm so here for it.
"Why did I want him to drag me to him? For him to consume me? Because we never finished what we started. Something, inexplicable drew me to him."
Thank you so much, Elsa Frey, for the ARC opportunity. I recommend this must read book 1 of the Bloodrune Saga, first of a potential trilogy, so add it to your TBR now.
Next book: Wrath of the Ruined coming soon!
September 12, 2025
4 ⭐
Нічого не понятно, але було цікаво.
Вайби прямо Косиля він владний) і Баффі, він їй взагалі не пара, але готовий на все щоб вона стала його дружиною. Від скандинавського лору і відчуття холоду було так атмосферно. А ще він прийняв всю її, з її тривогою, соромом і білю.
І цікаво що далі, як буде йти оця їхня "співпраця".
Нічого не понятно, але було цікаво.
Вайби прямо Косиля він владний) і Баффі, він їй взагалі не пара, але готовий на все щоб вона стала його дружиною. Від скандинавського лору і відчуття холоду було так атмосферно. А ще він прийняв всю її, з її тривогою, соромом і білю.
І цікаво що далі, як буде йти оця їхня "співпраця".
August 12, 2025
This was so unpredictable and very unique. I mean, I was rooting for the FMC to have some sexy time with not the MMC. I still don’t know if we can trust the MMC and the book ended when EVERYTHING hit the fan. My head is still spinning from the twists in this book. Personally, I could have done with less inner monologue, less health episodes and more relationship development across the board. Most of the plot plays out in the last 100 pages. The MMC had me sticking around for those last 100 pages and I was not disappointed. I will definitely be reading the sequel to this book.
Read
September 18, 2025DNF @ 15%
September 3, 2025
This book started off super strong but the by the halfway mark it started becoming very confusing to me. The beginning introduces us to the FMC Silver, who is a witch and hides her magic because it’s illegal. Norse mythology (or at least the Norse gods) is used heavily in the first half of the story which is super interesting but it mostly disappears from the second half. Silver gets selected for execution and ends up being saved by Drak, who is the King, and eventually is taken to his castle. Honestly, it takes her far too long to figure out that everyone around her are vampires. She ends up torn between believing in him or believing in Kayn who is banned from the castle but always manages to get inside. Both are hiding things from Silver and she is very indecisive and isn’t able to choose, so we end up with a love triangle that is more like a lust/belief triangle. It felt like whoever she is around, is who she believes and that’s who she wants at the time. They both tell her very different things but still leave her in the dark, so I wasn’t able to really figure out what was really going on. Not sure yet if I will read the next book.
August 5, 2025
Thank you to Elsa Frey for the opportunity to read an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book has an amazing description of the atmosphere, intriguing and rich. The author’s worldbuilding was very good and had great potential. For me was like stepping into the snowy landscapes of Skyrim.
As the story went there were some elements that didn’t work for me. I found it a bit repetitive as I went on. The MMC and FMC didn’t have the chemistry I was looking for, even from the characters they were based on.
I was intrigued by the premise of this story. Even if I didn’t like it that much I can see how it will find its audience.
This book has an amazing description of the atmosphere, intriguing and rich. The author’s worldbuilding was very good and had great potential. For me was like stepping into the snowy landscapes of Skyrim.
As the story went there were some elements that didn’t work for me. I found it a bit repetitive as I went on. The MMC and FMC didn’t have the chemistry I was looking for, even from the characters they were based on.
I was intrigued by the premise of this story. Even if I didn’t like it that much I can see how it will find its audience.
September 7, 2025
⚠️⚠️⚠️Just be prepared for a bit of a slow start and a finale that will leave you desperate for the sequel!
Let's talk about What I Liked (The Good Stuff) 👍👍😎😎
* The Unique World and Lore: This isn't your grandma's vampire story. The blend of Norse mythology with vampires and witches is genuinely cool and a total breath of fresh air. The "Call of the Gods" and the whole "huntress" concept for the main character, Silver, felt really original. I was completely invested in learning more about how this world worked and why things were the way they were.
* The Enemies-to-Lovers Dynamic: This is a trope I love, and Frey does a great job with it. The relationship between Silver and Kayn is built on a foundation of genuine conflict and distrust. Their back-and-forth was fun to read, and the tension between them was palpable. I was definitely rooting for them to get together, even when it seemed impossible.
* The Main Character's Journey: Silver is a fantastic protagonist. She's not just a damsel in distress; she's a witch who's constantly fighting against her circumstances. Her internal struggle and anxiety made her feel very human and relatable, which is something I appreciate in a fantasy novel. She grows a lot throughout the book, and her transformation from a hunted witch to a potential savior is compelling.
What I Didn't Like (The Not-So-Good Stuff) 👎😳😳😳😳
* The Pacing Can Be a Little Uneven: While the action scenes are great, there were moments in the middle where the story felt like it was treading water. It took a while to get to the main plot points, and some of the world-building felt a bit heavy at times. A little more momentum would have made it a smoother read.
* Some of the Romance Felt Rushed: As much as I liked the overall dynamic, there were a few key moments where the shift in their relationship felt a little sudden. One minute they're at each other's throats, the next they're... not. I would have liked a little more build-up in those crucial scenes to make the emotional impact even stronger.
* The Cliffhanger Ending: This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but you should know going in that this book ends on a major cliffhanger. While it definitely makes you want to read the next book immediately, it can be a little frustrating if you're not prepared for it. It's a series starter, for sure, and it leaves a lot of questions unanswered.
Final Thoughts
Overall, "Vow of the Undead" is a super fun and unique paranormal romance. It takes classic tropes and puts a fresh spin on them, and the world-building is top-notch. If you're looking for a steamy, fast-paced fantasy with a morally gray hero and a kick-ass heroine, this is a great choice.
Let's talk about What I Liked (The Good Stuff) 👍👍😎😎
* The Unique World and Lore: This isn't your grandma's vampire story. The blend of Norse mythology with vampires and witches is genuinely cool and a total breath of fresh air. The "Call of the Gods" and the whole "huntress" concept for the main character, Silver, felt really original. I was completely invested in learning more about how this world worked and why things were the way they were.
* The Enemies-to-Lovers Dynamic: This is a trope I love, and Frey does a great job with it. The relationship between Silver and Kayn is built on a foundation of genuine conflict and distrust. Their back-and-forth was fun to read, and the tension between them was palpable. I was definitely rooting for them to get together, even when it seemed impossible.
* The Main Character's Journey: Silver is a fantastic protagonist. She's not just a damsel in distress; she's a witch who's constantly fighting against her circumstances. Her internal struggle and anxiety made her feel very human and relatable, which is something I appreciate in a fantasy novel. She grows a lot throughout the book, and her transformation from a hunted witch to a potential savior is compelling.
What I Didn't Like (The Not-So-Good Stuff) 👎😳😳😳😳
* The Pacing Can Be a Little Uneven: While the action scenes are great, there were moments in the middle where the story felt like it was treading water. It took a while to get to the main plot points, and some of the world-building felt a bit heavy at times. A little more momentum would have made it a smoother read.
* Some of the Romance Felt Rushed: As much as I liked the overall dynamic, there were a few key moments where the shift in their relationship felt a little sudden. One minute they're at each other's throats, the next they're... not. I would have liked a little more build-up in those crucial scenes to make the emotional impact even stronger.
* The Cliffhanger Ending: This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but you should know going in that this book ends on a major cliffhanger. While it definitely makes you want to read the next book immediately, it can be a little frustrating if you're not prepared for it. It's a series starter, for sure, and it leaves a lot of questions unanswered.
Final Thoughts
Overall, "Vow of the Undead" is a super fun and unique paranormal romance. It takes classic tropes and puts a fresh spin on them, and the world-building is top-notch. If you're looking for a steamy, fast-paced fantasy with a morally gray hero and a kick-ass heroine, this is a great choice.
August 24, 2025
Vow of the Undead by Elsa Frey
Silver had me from page one. She’s not the shiny, unshakable kind of heroine you feel her anxiety, her illness, her fear but gods, does she fight anyway. That mix of vulnerability and grit made her easy to root for as she’s shoved into a world where the Call of the Gods demands the kind of choices that tear you in two.
Now… let’s talk about the unexpected problem: me falling for King Drakkar. Cruel. Manipulative. Addictive. Hes every reason you should not love a character and yet he made my heart sprint and my morals wobble. The enemies-to-lovers tension between him and Silver? It’s fire that singes your fingers, and I couldn’t look away.
And then there’s Kayn. The sweeter surprise. Hes the steady ember against Drakkar’s raging fire patient, gentle, but still smoldering with enough tension to make you lean in closer. That balance keeps the story pulling in two deliciously different directions.
Elsa Frey blends Viking grit, god-touched magic, and bloody forbidden romance in a way that feels raw and magnetic.
I would probably give this maybe 🌶🌶 forbidden tension, dominance and yearning.
📚 Favorite Quotes 📚
“Remember who you belong to, my wife.” (pure enemies-to-lovers perfection)
“You want me because we are both monsters.” (the rawest kind of confession—dark, dangerous, inevitable)
Silver had me from page one. She’s not the shiny, unshakable kind of heroine you feel her anxiety, her illness, her fear but gods, does she fight anyway. That mix of vulnerability and grit made her easy to root for as she’s shoved into a world where the Call of the Gods demands the kind of choices that tear you in two.
Now… let’s talk about the unexpected problem: me falling for King Drakkar. Cruel. Manipulative. Addictive. Hes every reason you should not love a character and yet he made my heart sprint and my morals wobble. The enemies-to-lovers tension between him and Silver? It’s fire that singes your fingers, and I couldn’t look away.
And then there’s Kayn. The sweeter surprise. Hes the steady ember against Drakkar’s raging fire patient, gentle, but still smoldering with enough tension to make you lean in closer. That balance keeps the story pulling in two deliciously different directions.
Elsa Frey blends Viking grit, god-touched magic, and bloody forbidden romance in a way that feels raw and magnetic.
I would probably give this maybe 🌶🌶 forbidden tension, dominance and yearning.
📚 Favorite Quotes 📚
“Remember who you belong to, my wife.” (pure enemies-to-lovers perfection)
“You want me because we are both monsters.” (the rawest kind of confession—dark, dangerous, inevitable)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
Vow of the Undead started with a spark—rich world-building, mythological depth, and a tone that reminded me of Naomi Novik’s storytelling. The first half was especially compelling, filled with Nordic gods and intriguing lore that promised a unique and immersive fantasy experience.
However, as the story progressed, it began to unravel emotionally. The second half felt like a whirlwind of broken promises and scattered feelings. The emotional arc lacked cohesion, and the romance—if it was meant to be there—never truly landed. I found myself disconnected from the characters’ relationships and unsure of what I was supposed to feel.
It almost felt like the author was trying to write two different books at once: one steeped in myth and mystery, and another focused on emotional turmoil. Unfortunately, the structure didn’t quite support this duality, leaving the narrative feeling disjointed and unfinished.
Despite its flaws, the concept behind Vow of the Undead is genuinely intriguing, and I’d love to see the author revisit this world with a clearer vision. If you enjoy myth-heavy fantasy and don’t mind a bit of emotional chaos, this might still be worth a read.
Vow of the Undead started with a spark—rich world-building, mythological depth, and a tone that reminded me of Naomi Novik’s storytelling. The first half was especially compelling, filled with Nordic gods and intriguing lore that promised a unique and immersive fantasy experience.
However, as the story progressed, it began to unravel emotionally. The second half felt like a whirlwind of broken promises and scattered feelings. The emotional arc lacked cohesion, and the romance—if it was meant to be there—never truly landed. I found myself disconnected from the characters’ relationships and unsure of what I was supposed to feel.
It almost felt like the author was trying to write two different books at once: one steeped in myth and mystery, and another focused on emotional turmoil. Unfortunately, the structure didn’t quite support this duality, leaving the narrative feeling disjointed and unfinished.
Despite its flaws, the concept behind Vow of the Undead is genuinely intriguing, and I’d love to see the author revisit this world with a clearer vision. If you enjoy myth-heavy fantasy and don’t mind a bit of emotional chaos, this might still be worth a read.
August 14, 2025
Silver’s world is a frozen snare of impossible choices, marry the cruel vampire king who claims her, or answer the Call of the Gods and hunt his kind until the last heart stops beating. I kind of love Silver, first her name is gorg, second her ability to adapt and endure, she isn’t a typical FMC she has flaws but like that makes her all the more easy to root for.
The Viking inspired setting is both brutal and beautiful, I love the mythology and whispered prophecies, and some old magic that feels dangerous. The romance walks an edge, a haunted stalker whose connection to her shakes the foundations of everything she thought she knew about vampires… and the king she’s meant to kill.
This book is a little chaotic, at times sometimes contradictory to itself, But in that chaos is the pull of unpredictability a constant sense that anything can happen, and no one is safe.
Read this if you enjoy:
• Viking inspired worlds
• He gives her a library
• Fated to Destry each other romance
• Enemies to lovers tension
• Vampires, and Witches
• Romantasy
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★/5
Spice: ♥︎ ♥︎ ♥︎/5
“I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.”
The Viking inspired setting is both brutal and beautiful, I love the mythology and whispered prophecies, and some old magic that feels dangerous. The romance walks an edge, a haunted stalker whose connection to her shakes the foundations of everything she thought she knew about vampires… and the king she’s meant to kill.
This book is a little chaotic, at times sometimes contradictory to itself, But in that chaos is the pull of unpredictability a constant sense that anything can happen, and no one is safe.
Read this if you enjoy:
• Viking inspired worlds
• He gives her a library
• Fated to Destry each other romance
• Enemies to lovers tension
• Vampires, and Witches
• Romantasy
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★/5
Spice: ♥︎ ♥︎ ♥︎/5
“I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.”
September 8, 2025
I was pretty excited for this book. I love stories about both vampires and Vikings. the story was a little bit confusing based on how it was marketed... I still have no idea who the love interest is supposed to be and maybe I was wrong, but I thought it was supposed to be a romantasy.
I thought that there were all sorts of unique things as a part of this book with powers and how they show up. The magic system was super unique and there were all sorts of moments where I had to put the book down for a second because the tension was written really well, whether it was various fight scenes or just different plot points as they were revealed throughout the story.
however, I thought that the pacing was off. the story ended and I felt no closure and it didn't feel like a cliffhanger, just like the story stopped in the middle of a book, if that makes any sense at all.
I received an arc for an honest review.
I thought that there were all sorts of unique things as a part of this book with powers and how they show up. The magic system was super unique and there were all sorts of moments where I had to put the book down for a second because the tension was written really well, whether it was various fight scenes or just different plot points as they were revealed throughout the story.
however, I thought that the pacing was off. the story ended and I felt no closure and it didn't feel like a cliffhanger, just like the story stopped in the middle of a book, if that makes any sense at all.
I received an arc for an honest review.
September 26, 2025
This has probably been my most anticipated ARC of the year.
I hyped it up for months and was so stoked when I finally got the opportunity to read it. It has a lot of potential, but the line between complex and confusing is a fine one and at times I totally got lost in between the back and forth of the story.
I also had an extremely hard time connecting with the FMC beyond her being chronically ill - and I didn't buy the connection between the King and Silver (mainly because they didn't interact for what felt like most of the book). The training montage took up too much of the story in my opinion.
I can totally see my issues not being as prominent for others though, so I can see this being a five star read for some fantasy lovers.
What I loved about this story
❤️ The setting - it reminded me of Skyrim, which is one of my all time favourite games
💙 Chronic illness rep
❤️ Witches and vampires
📖 Vow of the Undead by Elsa Frey
Rating ⭐⭐⭐
I hyped it up for months and was so stoked when I finally got the opportunity to read it. It has a lot of potential, but the line between complex and confusing is a fine one and at times I totally got lost in between the back and forth of the story.
I also had an extremely hard time connecting with the FMC beyond her being chronically ill - and I didn't buy the connection between the King and Silver (mainly because they didn't interact for what felt like most of the book). The training montage took up too much of the story in my opinion.
I can totally see my issues not being as prominent for others though, so I can see this being a five star read for some fantasy lovers.
What I loved about this story
❤️ The setting - it reminded me of Skyrim, which is one of my all time favourite games
💙 Chronic illness rep
❤️ Witches and vampires
📖 Vow of the Undead by Elsa Frey
Rating ⭐⭐⭐
September 29, 2025
Okay I wanna start by saying this book was great, I loved the story, the execution. But I felt as though it could’ve been so much more with a multi POV.
The FMC started really well but lowkey started pissing me off due to the lack of growth towards feelings for the king. Their relationship had potential if her growth was there. I’m personally not a huge fan of love triangles, this was straight up hella messy. The FMC just became the definition of being blind to red flags. And not in the good way.
Great book, great story. Things just could’ve been better.
On the bright side, the backstory and lore of each species was great. Norse mythology is a refreshing themed read. Intertwined with vampire lore and each character backstory? Delicious. I ate it up. HOLY PLOT TWISTS TOO LIKE WHAT THE FUCK. My head was spinning by the end
The FMC started really well but lowkey started pissing me off due to the lack of growth towards feelings for the king. Their relationship had potential if her growth was there. I’m personally not a huge fan of love triangles, this was straight up hella messy. The FMC just became the definition of being blind to red flags. And not in the good way.
Great book, great story. Things just could’ve been better.
On the bright side, the backstory and lore of each species was great. Norse mythology is a refreshing themed read. Intertwined with vampire lore and each character backstory? Delicious. I ate it up. HOLY PLOT TWISTS TOO LIKE WHAT THE FUCK. My head was spinning by the end
October 10, 2025
I struggled with this book. The plot interesting enough that I still want to know what happens in book two. However, I finished this book days ago, and remain frustrated with the let down. The hype for this Norse inspired story, left me expecting more. The vampire mythology was understandable as it was laid out, however the two, I felt, was not blended together as well as it could be. Especially with the FMC so unsure of what she is doing and which MMC she is going to remain loyal to. There is just enough attention grabbers and foreshadowing, that I’m still sitting at the edge of my seat wondering “what is next?” While simultaneously frustrated at the choices and actions of the characters that don’t make sense to me.
August 21, 2025
An addictive, heart-pounding romantasy that swept me away! Vow of the Undead has everything I love in the genre—an arranged marriage with a cruel vampire king, a heroine forced to choose between duty and survival, and a forbidden, enemies-to-lovers romance that burns with tension.
Silver is such a powerful character—not because she’s flawless, but because she’s real. Her illness, anxiety, and inner battles make her strength even more inspiring, and her transformation into a huntress chosen by the Gods felt both epic and emotional. The Viking-inspired world is vividly built, and the blend of divine Calling, dangerous monsters, and dark romance kept me hooked from start to finish.
Silver is such a powerful character—not because she’s flawless, but because she’s real. Her illness, anxiety, and inner battles make her strength even more inspiring, and her transformation into a huntress chosen by the Gods felt both epic and emotional. The Viking-inspired world is vividly built, and the blend of divine Calling, dangerous monsters, and dark romance kept me hooked from start to finish.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2025
Ever since I stumbled upon @elsa_frey_romantasy and her thread account with a description of this book, I had wanted to read it. I was accepted to her ARC team for this book and was so excited. I started reading as soon as I could. This book was so good and I hated putting it down, and I hated that it ended. I can't wait to read the next book in this trilogy.
I enjoyed so many things about this book. The growth of the FMC. The two MMC are opposites in many ways which makes them so interesting. Just when you think you know what is happening something else happens. There is spice for those looking for it. Read this book.
I enjoyed so many things about this book. The growth of the FMC. The two MMC are opposites in many ways which makes them so interesting. Just when you think you know what is happening something else happens. There is spice for those looking for it. Read this book.
August 7, 2025
Vow of the Undead: A Vikings and vampires romantasy (The Bloodrune Saga Book 1) By: Elsa Frey. First this book is a puzzle you have to pay attention to the key characters Kayn willing to do anything for Lux. Silver willing to kill to be the Queen.King Drakkar the only honest person accepting Lux and protecting her and himself. It’s Suspenseful , nonstop page turner. Lux better decide in the next book . I enjoyed every minute of this story.
August 10, 2025
Vampires? Witches? Vikings? yes!!! give me more please. I couldn't put this book down. I was not expecting that plot twist... I cannot wait for the next book so I can see what happens next..
3/5🌶 some spice. But not the main plot of the story. The characters in this book are well described and the growth we see is amazing.
"sit"
"where?"
his eyes flickered to the leg free if his hand and a faint twitch curves the edge of his lips...
3/5🌶 some spice. But not the main plot of the story. The characters in this book are well described and the growth we see is amazing.
"sit"
"where?"
his eyes flickered to the leg free if his hand and a faint twitch curves the edge of his lips...
August 14, 2025
I was not prepared for this book to be dragging my feelings back & forth. It keeps you on your toes and second guessing your imagination of where this story goes. Putting myself into the shoes of the FMC - I would go mad. :D
Love the setting into Norse mythology. Love the portrayal of chronic illness and the relevance between both main characters. Now .... I only have to wait for book 2 to know in which direction this will actually go. Patience & such.
Love the setting into Norse mythology. Love the portrayal of chronic illness and the relevance between both main characters. Now .... I only have to wait for book 2 to know in which direction this will actually go. Patience & such.
September 5, 2025
ARC in exchange for a true review. Again, thank you so much for choosing me to read and review this ARC.
I think this book could have been good, it had so much going on that it became too complicated and confusing and lacked a lot of depth. You can tell the author is very passionate about her writing and has a lot of concepts she wants to include. I wish the author the best of luck and will read more from her in the future.
I think this book could have been good, it had so much going on that it became too complicated and confusing and lacked a lot of depth. You can tell the author is very passionate about her writing and has a lot of concepts she wants to include. I wish the author the best of luck and will read more from her in the future.
September 11, 2025
If you love the Vikings and Buffy the Vampire slayer then boy do I have the book for you. Elsa Frey has written an amazing first book in The Bloodrune saga and I ate this book up.
Silver is hiding who she truly is in her community to prevent being dragged off into the wastelands by the executioners. Little does she know, fate has other plans for her. She is caught by the king himself and forced to be his bride.
There are so many things I wish I could tell about this book but I can't because it would spoil it. Just know there is a love triangle and spice and a call to action for the FMC and I am here for it!!!!!!!
Thank you Elsa Frey for the opportunity read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Silver is hiding who she truly is in her community to prevent being dragged off into the wastelands by the executioners. Little does she know, fate has other plans for her. She is caught by the king himself and forced to be his bride.
There are so many things I wish I could tell about this book but I can't because it would spoil it. Just know there is a love triangle and spice and a call to action for the FMC and I am here for it!!!!!!!
Thank you Elsa Frey for the opportunity read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2025
Overall I enjoyed this book! I wish there was a little more chemistry between Silver and Drak. But I loved the twist and turns to come out during this book. I’m hoping in the next book for there to be more romantic moments from them. Also I am so confused on how to feel about Kayn. I have figured him all the way out. Eager to read the next book to see how this all plays out!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews