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To the Cruel Gods #1
Vow Forever Night
I didn’t think I’d ever see her again, then she barged into my life and shattered it.
Kleos disregards every rule, all common sense that dictates she shouldn’t trust me. I’m a dark sorcerer, comfortable with murder, torture, and not entirely opposed to world domination. She’s the sweetheart of Highvale. We make no sense.
I can’t say I care.
Our city. Our families. Our entire world.
It doesn’t matter what I’ll have to destroy to keep her.
They told her I was bad news from the start.
She should have listened.
A sensual, dark, steamy paranormal romance in a world where everything that goes bump in the night exists, To the Cruel Gods is unsuitable for sensitive readers.
Kleos disregards every rule, all common sense that dictates she shouldn’t trust me. I’m a dark sorcerer, comfortable with murder, torture, and not entirely opposed to world domination. She’s the sweetheart of Highvale. We make no sense.
I can’t say I care.
Our city. Our families. Our entire world.
It doesn’t matter what I’ll have to destroy to keep her.
They told her I was bad news from the start.
She should have listened.
A sensual, dark, steamy paranormal romance in a world where everything that goes bump in the night exists, To the Cruel Gods is unsuitable for sensitive readers.
392 pages, Paperback
Published June 25, 2025
About the author
May Sage
141 books1,935 followersMay Sage is a USA Today Bestselling romance writer dabbling in different genres.
When she isn’t writing, she spends her time with her German Shepherd and her two Savannahs. She loves reading, ballet, running, and cake. Mostly, cake.
May Sage also writes longer fantasy romance novels as Alexi Blake.
When she isn’t writing, she spends her time with her German Shepherd and her two Savannahs. She loves reading, ballet, running, and cake. Mostly, cake.
May Sage also writes longer fantasy romance novels as Alexi Blake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
August 22, 2026
✅ Characters
✅ Dramione vibes (as well as Hades & Persephone)
✅ World-building
✅ Magic & mythology
✅ Fast pace
✅ Rival families (but it is not enemies-to-lovers)
✅ Romance (cute, no angst or complication)
✅(🆗) Kleos and Lucian’s investigation
✅(🆗) I am not a fan of Silver
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: necromancy, murders (not graphic), mentions of animal sacrifices (past) and human sacrifices (not graphic), character under a lust spell against their will (but nothing non-consensual happens)
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
4.5 stars
Nobody can tell me that this book didn’t start as a plan for a Dramione fanfiction. Don’t get me wrong, it is very good, but it was impossible not to be reminded of Hermione and Draco. The potions and magic, the interactions between Kleos and Lucian, and even Kleos’ friends… Everything gave a Harry Potter vibe in the best way.
I only read one book by May Sage, years ago, and I found it bland and disappointing. I did see many great reviews for this one, though, and it was rumored to be Dramione-coded, which was enough to convince me to give it a try. This book was much better than the one I read a few years ago.
The world-building is a mix of magic in our modern time (again, think Harry Potter). People live in a remote city, where technology exists, but is not used a lot because it struggles to function amidst all the magic. They can travel to other places in the world, so there are mentions of modern elements like euros, phones, and TV shows, as well as modern British slang at times, but the city itself is full of magical creatures, and it feels quite fantastical. There is also an interesting mix of mythology; it’s mostly Greek, but there are also mentions of Norse and Egyptian Gods and Goddesses.
I love how the author created a dual city with Highvale: the pristine elite live above ground in the upper-city, while the under-city hosts sorcerers and other supernatural creatures that tend to be disliked and discarded by the high and mighty citizens of the above. It accentuated the chasm between the two groups, as well as the prejudice most people living above have toward the population of the underside. Lucian is a dark sorcerer, feared by most because of his powers, while Kleos is a witch with a speciality in healing magic, loved by everyone above ground, and named the sweetheart of Highvale.
Even though there is not a lot of action, the pace is good, and the story is engaging. That being said, I feel that the romance overshadowed the plot a little bit. I enjoyed seeing Kleos and Lucian interact and learn to trust each other a lot, but I was expecting them to make more progress in their investigation into Kleos’ mysterious runes and who might be trying to control her through them. They are no closer to figuring out who is responsible, and what their goal is, than they were when they started working together… Hopefully, they will make more progress in the next book, because while I enjoyed the romance development a lot, I also need a compelling plot to remain invested in a series.
The romance is cute, but despite my earlier claim that this book had strong Dramione vibes, there is no angst or complication to the romance. The main obstacle is that Kleos and Lucian’s live on opposite sides of the city (quite literally), but Lucian’s family is fine with him seeing Kleos, and Kleos’ parents are pretty much absent from the plot and don’t pose any issue for now. It is not an insta-love, but it was made clear from the start that both were interested in the other, and once they managed to spend more time together, it didn’t take much for them to give in to the sexual tension.
The development of the romance is cute, but do not read this book expecting an enemies-to-lovers romance. For now, it’s more a friends-with-benefits relationship than a romantic one. Kleos and Lucian care about each other, but they do not know each other that well, and while they enjoyed a few spicy moments, there is no grand declaration or thoughts of romantic feelings yet, thankfully. When their relationship does evolve into romance, we might get a hint of forbidden love vibes, but I do not think it will be that much of an issue, honestly. Sure, Kleos’s parents and the press will have a mild heart attack, but it’s not like relationships (friendship or romantic ones) are forbidden between the citizens of upper and under city. They just don’t mingle much because of the prejudices uppers have against unders.
I love how Kleos and Lucian work so well together. She bakes for him, and he tries his best to keep her alive and to spoil her, without her realizing it. Kleos is a strong-willed main character who knows what she wants and is not afraid to go get it, and Lucian is just the same. It prevented pointless and dragged-out miscommunication issues and allowed their relationship to progress more quickly, without feeling rushed.
I also think that they bring out the best in each other. Kleos spent her life living under her strict parents’ thumb, and being under the spotlight, yet when she spends time underground, at Lucian’s place, she feels free, happy, and able to be herself without the scrutiny of her family and the press. Lucian is cocky, self-assured, and very aware of just how powerful and good-looking he is. He is also obsessed with Kleos, and seems to lose all his bluster and confidence when she is around. He is very protective of her and tries his best not to make it too apparent just how much of a goner he is. He knows she is destined to marry someone from the upper-city, eventually, but he just can’t resist spending time with her (and she is not complaining about it). Also, I seem to have a weakness for male love interests using "love" as a term of endearment; it made Lucian even more swoonworthy.
On a side note, I was not the biggest fan of Silver. I know the third and fourth books of this series center around her, so I hope she will be more likable in the next book, or there will be a shift happening in her books to make me like her more. The other side characters were great, though. Gideon and Ronan are a perfect addition, funny and quirky without being stupid and completely irrelevant.
Overall, this book has a fast pace, a cute romance developing with some sexual tension and spice, as well as good banter. The plot was not the most elaborate, but the characters and interesting world-building full of magic made up for it. I devoured it, and I will start the second book right away! It is perfect for fans of Dramione or Hades & Persephone stories.
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✅ Dramione vibes (as well as Hades & Persephone)
✅ World-building
✅ Magic & mythology
✅ Fast pace
✅ Rival families (but it is not enemies-to-lovers)
✅ Romance (cute, no angst or complication)
✅(🆗) Kleos and Lucian’s investigation
✅(🆗) I am not a fan of Silver
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: necromancy, murders (not graphic), mentions of animal sacrifices (past) and human sacrifices (not graphic), character under a lust spell against their will (but nothing non-consensual happens)
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
4.5 stars
Nobody can tell me that this book didn’t start as a plan for a Dramione fanfiction. Don’t get me wrong, it is very good, but it was impossible not to be reminded of Hermione and Draco. The potions and magic, the interactions between Kleos and Lucian, and even Kleos’ friends… Everything gave a Harry Potter vibe in the best way.
I only read one book by May Sage, years ago, and I found it bland and disappointing. I did see many great reviews for this one, though, and it was rumored to be Dramione-coded, which was enough to convince me to give it a try. This book was much better than the one I read a few years ago.
The world-building is a mix of magic in our modern time (again, think Harry Potter). People live in a remote city, where technology exists, but is not used a lot because it struggles to function amidst all the magic. They can travel to other places in the world, so there are mentions of modern elements like euros, phones, and TV shows, as well as modern British slang at times, but the city itself is full of magical creatures, and it feels quite fantastical. There is also an interesting mix of mythology; it’s mostly Greek, but there are also mentions of Norse and Egyptian Gods and Goddesses.
I love how the author created a dual city with Highvale: the pristine elite live above ground in the upper-city, while the under-city hosts sorcerers and other supernatural creatures that tend to be disliked and discarded by the high and mighty citizens of the above. It accentuated the chasm between the two groups, as well as the prejudice most people living above have toward the population of the underside. Lucian is a dark sorcerer, feared by most because of his powers, while Kleos is a witch with a speciality in healing magic, loved by everyone above ground, and named the sweetheart of Highvale.
Even though there is not a lot of action, the pace is good, and the story is engaging. That being said, I feel that the romance overshadowed the plot a little bit. I enjoyed seeing Kleos and Lucian interact and learn to trust each other a lot, but I was expecting them to make more progress in their investigation into Kleos’ mysterious runes and who might be trying to control her through them. They are no closer to figuring out who is responsible, and what their goal is, than they were when they started working together… Hopefully, they will make more progress in the next book, because while I enjoyed the romance development a lot, I also need a compelling plot to remain invested in a series.
“Am I supposed to feel something?" I checked.
Lucian's jaw hit the floor.
"Yes. Yes you are." The light touch intensified as he actually took my hand.
Still nothing. I smiled. "You're certainly not the first man with performance issues. Don't sweat it, it's perfectly normal.”
The romance is cute, but despite my earlier claim that this book had strong Dramione vibes, there is no angst or complication to the romance. The main obstacle is that Kleos and Lucian’s live on opposite sides of the city (quite literally), but Lucian’s family is fine with him seeing Kleos, and Kleos’ parents are pretty much absent from the plot and don’t pose any issue for now. It is not an insta-love, but it was made clear from the start that both were interested in the other, and once they managed to spend more time together, it didn’t take much for them to give in to the sexual tension.
I'm a dark sorcerer, comfortable with murder, torture, and not entirely opposed to world domination. She's the sweetheart of Highvale. We make no sense. I can't say I care.
The development of the romance is cute, but do not read this book expecting an enemies-to-lovers romance. For now, it’s more a friends-with-benefits relationship than a romantic one. Kleos and Lucian care about each other, but they do not know each other that well, and while they enjoyed a few spicy moments, there is no grand declaration or thoughts of romantic feelings yet, thankfully. When their relationship does evolve into romance, we might get a hint of forbidden love vibes, but I do not think it will be that much of an issue, honestly. Sure, Kleos’s parents and the press will have a mild heart attack, but it’s not like relationships (friendship or romantic ones) are forbidden between the citizens of upper and under city. They just don’t mingle much because of the prejudices uppers have against unders.
I love how Kleos and Lucian work so well together. She bakes for him, and he tries his best to keep her alive and to spoil her, without her realizing it. Kleos is a strong-willed main character who knows what she wants and is not afraid to go get it, and Lucian is just the same. It prevented pointless and dragged-out miscommunication issues and allowed their relationship to progress more quickly, without feeling rushed.
I also think that they bring out the best in each other. Kleos spent her life living under her strict parents’ thumb, and being under the spotlight, yet when she spends time underground, at Lucian’s place, she feels free, happy, and able to be herself without the scrutiny of her family and the press. Lucian is cocky, self-assured, and very aware of just how powerful and good-looking he is. He is also obsessed with Kleos, and seems to lose all his bluster and confidence when she is around. He is very protective of her and tries his best not to make it too apparent just how much of a goner he is. He knows she is destined to marry someone from the upper-city, eventually, but he just can’t resist spending time with her (and she is not complaining about it). Also, I seem to have a weakness for male love interests using "love" as a term of endearment; it made Lucian even more swoonworthy.
On a side note, I was not the biggest fan of Silver. I know the third and fourth books of this series center around her, so I hope she will be more likable in the next book, or there will be a shift happening in her books to make me like her more. The other side characters were great, though. Gideon and Ronan are a perfect addition, funny and quirky without being stupid and completely irrelevant.
Overall, this book has a fast pace, a cute romance developing with some sexual tension and spice, as well as good banter. The plot was not the most elaborate, but the characters and interesting world-building full of magic made up for it. I devoured it, and I will start the second book right away! It is perfect for fans of Dramione or Hades & Persephone stories.
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June 25, 2025
“Be very careful what you ask of me, love. You might just get it.”
Wow, that’s my second 5 star in a row, the gods must be pleased with me!
This was so much fun to read! I loved the characters, the banter, the little mysterious plot and the world building.
Kleos and Lucian are two opposites, one being a light witch and the other a dark sorcerer with families that dislikes each other but despite that, they still managed to get close to each other and he even helps her find her stalker and then get through a l*st potion 👀.
It was scorching hot, the chemistry and tension were palpable but also very cute ( she bakes him cupcakes and he’s addicted to them ) and I absolutely loved the animal sidekicks
Read this if you love good banter, spice, witches, greek mythology and angst.
I am impatiently waiting for book 2 to come out!
Thank you so much May Sage for the ARC, opinions are totally my own.
Wow, that’s my second 5 star in a row, the gods must be pleased with me!
This was so much fun to read! I loved the characters, the banter, the little mysterious plot and the world building.
Kleos and Lucian are two opposites, one being a light witch and the other a dark sorcerer with families that dislikes each other but despite that, they still managed to get close to each other and he even helps her find her stalker and then get through a l*st potion 👀.
It was scorching hot, the chemistry and tension were palpable but also very cute ( she bakes him cupcakes and he’s addicted to them ) and I absolutely loved the animal sidekicks
Read this if you love good banter, spice, witches, greek mythology and angst.
I am impatiently waiting for book 2 to come out!
Thank you so much May Sage for the ARC, opinions are totally my own.
June 19, 2025
I just finished Vow Forever Night and immediately went into withdrawal. READ THIS! This was such a good paranormal/fantasy romance, slow burn, great world-building, interesting plot, found family, spice (but not until like 80% which was torture) and it ends on a cliffhanger. I LOVED both main characters so much and I’m obsessed. But it’s a duet and the second book comes out next month so I’ll survive. I think 🙂↕️
August 17, 2026
Absolutely loved this one! ✨ The magical world pulled me in, and I completely fell in love with the characters. Such a beautiful story 🙂↕️🤍🤍
Want to Read
May 1, 2025Dark wizard gets the girl you say 👀
July 7, 2026
Got as an ALC through NetGalley.
Absolutely adored this book - 5⭐ no questions asked. I was planning on reading it anyways (even bought 2 copies because I forgot about the other one😌) but the audio was what broke the dam.
Story - engaging, witty, entertaining!✨
Romance - the yearning, the slowburn...😏
The ending - *googling* how to survive until January for the next audiobook??
If you love old gods in modern settings, strong female leads, gazillionaire (I know that is not a word😗) lover boy male lead and a tension that makes you squeal, also with a mystery on the side - this book is for you and your whole book club. 📚
Absolutely adored this book - 5⭐ no questions asked. I was planning on reading it anyways (even bought 2 copies because I forgot about the other one😌) but the audio was what broke the dam.
Story - engaging, witty, entertaining!✨
Romance - the yearning, the slowburn...😏
The ending - *googling* how to survive until January for the next audiobook??
If you love old gods in modern settings, strong female leads, gazillionaire (I know that is not a word😗) lover boy male lead and a tension that makes you squeal, also with a mystery on the side - this book is for you and your whole book club. 📚
July 8, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Vow Forever Night by May Sage follows Kleos, a light witch, and Lucian, a powerful dark sorcerer from the opposite side of their magical world. As they work together to uncover the mystery behind dangerous runes and ancient magic, they find themselves caught in a forbidden romance that definitely gave me some Romeo and Juliet vibes.
I had a really fun time with this audiobook. Even though it’s not packed with nonstop action, I was entertained the entire time. I loved the mix of magic, mythology, and gods, and I thought the world was really interesting. Lucian was probably my favorite part—he’s cocky, protective, and completely gone for Kleos. Their chemistry made me want to keep listening, and I also really enjoyed the side characters since they brought a lot of humor to the story.
The narrators did a great job bringing the characters to life. My only reason for giving this four stars instead of five is that I wanted a little more to happen in the overall plot and a bit more depth in some areas. That said, the ending definitely left me wanting answers and excited to see where the series goes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Vow Forever Night by May Sage follows Kleos, a light witch, and Lucian, a powerful dark sorcerer from the opposite side of their magical world. As they work together to uncover the mystery behind dangerous runes and ancient magic, they find themselves caught in a forbidden romance that definitely gave me some Romeo and Juliet vibes.
I had a really fun time with this audiobook. Even though it’s not packed with nonstop action, I was entertained the entire time. I loved the mix of magic, mythology, and gods, and I thought the world was really interesting. Lucian was probably my favorite part—he’s cocky, protective, and completely gone for Kleos. Their chemistry made me want to keep listening, and I also really enjoyed the side characters since they brought a lot of humor to the story.
The narrators did a great job bringing the characters to life. My only reason for giving this four stars instead of five is that I wanted a little more to happen in the overall plot and a bit more depth in some areas. That said, the ending definitely left me wanting answers and excited to see where the series goes next.
July 30, 2025
I went in to this blind so I was really impressed by the story line but I was kind of getting bored mid way unfortunately.
There just wasn’t enough romance in my opinion 😖✋
Don’t know tho if I’m intrigued enough to read book two 🧐
There just wasn’t enough romance in my opinion 😖✋
Don’t know tho if I’m intrigued enough to read book two 🧐
November 16, 2025
DNF at 27%
This is one of the worst cases of insta love I've ever had the misfortune of reading.
This is one of the worst cases of insta love I've ever had the misfortune of reading.
July 29, 2026
Vow Forever Night by May Sage feels like two books in one. The first is a fun urban fantasy with monsters, business processes, and gentle flirting. Then comes the romantasy side, which powers the back third. Be warned, the story arc for this book is the character’s relationship, and there is a cliffhanger in the plot. Fellow plot readers may feel incomplete until book 2 comes to explain all the cool world-building and machinations.
Note: My review is based on the audiobook ARC/ALC, so please excuse any character names that may be spelled incorrectly. I hemmed and hawed over what to put in a review for this ARC, as a fair amount of the characters’ names were able to be found online — but likely some got missed.
I enjoyed the first half of this book quite a lot. It felt like any detective work where his colleagues win over the gruff, competent, male lead and proves to be a good teammate in a kind of found family. I posted an update in a Discord where we discuss ARCs and returned, “Oh, I didn’t know you read romance.” Well, neither did I at that point. I’m hardly allergic to romance, but plot and worldbuilding often carry me along through the “oh, we should tell each other how we feel” phase of a romantic relationship. But I was confused, as this was a plot-heavy book. Then I got to those parts. Well, that changed fast. It was handled well, if abruptly. I had to double-check, as I swore there were more spice scenes than there are in actuality in this story.
After the spice, we get back to plot. Though, by back to plot we don't mean a plot ending, because as I wrote above, welcome to the cliffhanger.
Our story is set in the magical city of Highvale, where the world’s magical creatures tend to converge. There, a society has formed among all sorts of beings from folklore and was founded by the old gods. There is a strict social order with members of the original houses holding immense sway. The city is divided into two zones; the first is the Vale (or upper Highvale), where the rich live; it is clean, safe, and privileged. The second is the Under, where the residents are prejudiced; it is dirtier, wilder, yet has functioning society as well.
There is a lot of comparison between the two sides of Highvale, almost a wrong side of the tracks type of dynamic.
We have a pair of POV characters:
Kleos Valescos, the naive, adorkable light witch. She is a golden retriever, confident that everyone loves her. And she bakes. But she shares her food, which is not a golden retriever strong suit. And she has an infatuation with the bad boys, and that means…
Lucian Regis, the feared dark sorcerer, confessed murderer, and heir to one of the great houses of his line. Men want to be him, women want to be with him. Naturally, that is boring. Instead, he has eyes for Kleos, the light witch who should be his opposite at best. Touching her should be painful; instead, he is fascinated by her and wants more.
The bridge between the two is Gideon Regis, who works for The Guard (magical creature enforcement/police). Gideon is assigned Lucian as a partner when Lucian is set up by his brother for punishment for killing some deserving target, who happens to be the cousin of Kleos. Gideon is musclebound and affable, which Lucian registers as stupid, but Gideon is much more perceptive than our little dark lord imagines, and he sets out to stoke the flames between his cousin and his colleague; because of all the characters, he is the one with the guts to act upon what he knows. More stories need a Gideon to say the blaringly obvious thing to the other.
Lastly, we have Silver, Kleos’ friend and protector, who is somehow much stronger than her diminutive size would have you believe. Silver is a mix between Gideon the Ninth and a protective Pomeranian.
When Kleos is attached via magical means and cryptic runes appear on her body and try to control her, she turns for help. And who can help? Why, the dark lord who is also a rune magic expert.
Then the two start a when-will-they type relationship while working to figure out the mystery of the runes. And then don’t figure it out. That is saved for the next book.
Four stars. The first part was my favorite, but I do want to know what happens further on in the books. The characters are likable enough that I didn’t root against their relationship.
Many thanks to Tantor Media and Netgalley for providing an audio ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Note: My review is based on the audiobook ARC/ALC, so please excuse any character names that may be spelled incorrectly. I hemmed and hawed over what to put in a review for this ARC, as a fair amount of the characters’ names were able to be found online — but likely some got missed.
I enjoyed the first half of this book quite a lot. It felt like any detective work where his colleagues win over the gruff, competent, male lead and proves to be a good teammate in a kind of found family. I posted an update in a Discord where we discuss ARCs and returned, “Oh, I didn’t know you read romance.” Well, neither did I at that point. I’m hardly allergic to romance, but plot and worldbuilding often carry me along through the “oh, we should tell each other how we feel” phase of a romantic relationship. But I was confused, as this was a plot-heavy book. Then I got to those parts. Well, that changed fast. It was handled well, if abruptly. I had to double-check, as I swore there were more spice scenes than there are in actuality in this story.
After the spice, we get back to plot. Though, by back to plot we don't mean a plot ending, because as I wrote above, welcome to the cliffhanger.
Our story is set in the magical city of Highvale, where the world’s magical creatures tend to converge. There, a society has formed among all sorts of beings from folklore and was founded by the old gods. There is a strict social order with members of the original houses holding immense sway. The city is divided into two zones; the first is the Vale (or upper Highvale), where the rich live; it is clean, safe, and privileged. The second is the Under, where the residents are prejudiced; it is dirtier, wilder, yet has functioning society as well.
There is a lot of comparison between the two sides of Highvale, almost a wrong side of the tracks type of dynamic.
We have a pair of POV characters:
Kleos Valescos, the naive, adorkable light witch. She is a golden retriever, confident that everyone loves her. And she bakes. But she shares her food, which is not a golden retriever strong suit. And she has an infatuation with the bad boys, and that means…
Lucian Regis, the feared dark sorcerer, confessed murderer, and heir to one of the great houses of his line. Men want to be him, women want to be with him. Naturally, that is boring. Instead, he has eyes for Kleos, the light witch who should be his opposite at best. Touching her should be painful; instead, he is fascinated by her and wants more.
The bridge between the two is Gideon Regis, who works for The Guard (magical creature enforcement/police). Gideon is assigned Lucian as a partner when Lucian is set up by his brother for punishment for killing some deserving target, who happens to be the cousin of Kleos. Gideon is musclebound and affable, which Lucian registers as stupid, but Gideon is much more perceptive than our little dark lord imagines, and he sets out to stoke the flames between his cousin and his colleague; because of all the characters, he is the one with the guts to act upon what he knows. More stories need a Gideon to say the blaringly obvious thing to the other.
Lastly, we have Silver, Kleos’ friend and protector, who is somehow much stronger than her diminutive size would have you believe. Silver is a mix between Gideon the Ninth and a protective Pomeranian.
When Kleos is attached via magical means and cryptic runes appear on her body and try to control her, she turns for help. And who can help? Why, the dark lord who is also a rune magic expert.
Then the two start a when-will-they type relationship while working to figure out the mystery of the runes. And then don’t figure it out. That is saved for the next book.
Four stars. The first part was my favorite, but I do want to know what happens further on in the books. The characters are likable enough that I didn’t root against their relationship.
Many thanks to Tantor Media and Netgalley for providing an audio ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 5, 2026
Audiobook narrators were excellent!! I love a dual-narrated book, and this did not disappoint. Accents and inflection were both excellent, with narrators delivering dialogue very naturally.
This was a fun romantasy book! The plot was engaging and somewhat unique, with decent world-building, and some interesting elements to the magic system. The spice was also pretty good. 👀
However, I did find the romance to be lackluster. The characters had insta-lust, but even throughout the first book I never really saw them developing a connection. He likes that she can make cupcakes, and she likes that he’s protecting her - neither of which seem super compelling reasons to fall in love. The main characters also never entertain the possibility that they could be together, which is also off-putting. It’s a shame, because the FMC and MMC were both compelling alone - I wish they had a better romantic arc.
I was also slightly disillusioned by the cliffhanger, it didn’t have the punch for me that I think it was supposed to. Excited to listen to the next audiobook though, loved the narration!
Thank you to May Sage, Tantor Media, and NetGalley for the ARC!
This was a fun romantasy book! The plot was engaging and somewhat unique, with decent world-building, and some interesting elements to the magic system. The spice was also pretty good. 👀
However, I did find the romance to be lackluster. The characters had insta-lust, but even throughout the first book I never really saw them developing a connection. He likes that she can make cupcakes, and she likes that he’s protecting her - neither of which seem super compelling reasons to fall in love. The main characters also never entertain the possibility that they could be together, which is also off-putting. It’s a shame, because the FMC and MMC were both compelling alone - I wish they had a better romantic arc.
I was also slightly disillusioned by the cliffhanger, it didn’t have the punch for me that I think it was supposed to. Excited to listen to the next audiobook though, loved the narration!
Thank you to May Sage, Tantor Media, and NetGalley for the ARC!
August 26, 2025
3.5 stars
Admittedly, the first thing that drew me into this book was it’s cover - the art is just stunning. The author also had some gorgeous character art on her socials, which had me instantly sold. Although romantasy and I don’t always see eye to eye, I had a fun time reading this. It was an interesting world with peculiar magic and characters.
I was particularly fond of the fact that the male love interest wasn’t an asshole and actually respected the main character. I can’t tell you how refreshing that was. The romance was also cute. The reader knows that both Kleos and Lucien are into each other from the start, which I don’t always love. It just feels like we miss out on that growth and journey a character goes on when they start to feel different for someone/see someone in a different light or are willing to admit how they feel to themselves (because they have always felt that way and just haven’t realised it). I think for a romance story, it just takes away from the development of the relationship. My rambling aside, I still do think that the romance was the strongest aspect of this story. I love a respectable male lead who is simultaneously mysterious and brooding. It was very grumpy x sunshine if that's something you’re into (which I happen to be).
While I liked the premise of Vow Forever Night, the story would’ve benefited from more detail. A lot of the world, magic and social constructs were brushed over and I felt like I had been thrown into the deep end. It was such an interesting idea, with the magic and the under and upper portions of the environment, but I struggled to fully grasp the concepts. This did seem to improve later on, but it wasn’t enough for me. I feel like I was just expected to know and understand the characters and where they were. I really don’t mean to rant, and I’m hoping it's not coming across that way, because in the end, I still enjoyed this. I just think there is potential for the story to have more depth.
Thank you to the author for this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Admittedly, the first thing that drew me into this book was it’s cover - the art is just stunning. The author also had some gorgeous character art on her socials, which had me instantly sold. Although romantasy and I don’t always see eye to eye, I had a fun time reading this. It was an interesting world with peculiar magic and characters.
I was particularly fond of the fact that the male love interest wasn’t an asshole and actually respected the main character. I can’t tell you how refreshing that was. The romance was also cute. The reader knows that both Kleos and Lucien are into each other from the start, which I don’t always love. It just feels like we miss out on that growth and journey a character goes on when they start to feel different for someone/see someone in a different light or are willing to admit how they feel to themselves (because they have always felt that way and just haven’t realised it). I think for a romance story, it just takes away from the development of the relationship. My rambling aside, I still do think that the romance was the strongest aspect of this story. I love a respectable male lead who is simultaneously mysterious and brooding. It was very grumpy x sunshine if that's something you’re into (which I happen to be).
While I liked the premise of Vow Forever Night, the story would’ve benefited from more detail. A lot of the world, magic and social constructs were brushed over and I felt like I had been thrown into the deep end. It was such an interesting idea, with the magic and the under and upper portions of the environment, but I struggled to fully grasp the concepts. This did seem to improve later on, but it wasn’t enough for me. I feel like I was just expected to know and understand the characters and where they were. I really don’t mean to rant, and I’m hoping it's not coming across that way, because in the end, I still enjoyed this. I just think there is potential for the story to have more depth.
Thank you to the author for this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2025
This has truly become one of my favourite books that i've read all year, i simply couldn't put it down and ended up finishing it in 2 days. As soon as it's available in paperback i'll be rushing to grab a copy!
It's full of so many cool tropes and interesting elements including;
🖤 Rival Families and Natural Enemies
🖤 interfering Gods and Monsters
🖤 Dark world
🖤 Sm🥵t
🖤 Who did this to you 😏
🖤 Norse and Grecian mythology
🖤 angst and slow burn romance
🖤 hades x persephone vibes
I knew i was going to love this one after reading the first chapter because i was already obsessed with everything about it! Both characters seemed like they were going to be incredibly interesting and fun, and completely different to most main characters that are in fantasy romance's, and i wasn't wrong!!
They were complete and total opposites, while fitting together like two pieces of the same puzzle. The only way i can really describe it is that it felt like they were 'fated mates' with just how compatible they were, let alone how obsessed they were with finding out every detail about each other.
And yet while they are constantly flirting and bantering with each other the whole way through, nothing actually happens between them until about 70% of the way through the book! (it was slow burn in the most delicious sense)
I also really loved the parallel that Kleos was meant to be the 'light' character and Lucien was meant to be the 'dark' one, yet they both inhabit this grey area because they don't fit into the groups that society has put them into.
Lucien is perceived to be this big bad bogeyman by everyone who knows of him. He is a dark sorcerer that does unspeakable acts of evil, and yet he is actually a huge softie with a really big heart who is always trying to help his friends and make life better for everyone that lives under the main city.
Kleos is seen as being this darling of the upper city who can do no wrong, a successful healer and academic with a heart of gold, and yet she has this darker side that she is always hiding from society. She doesn't want the same things that they all do, and has a really nasty side that comes out if anyone she cares about is hurt.
I also thought that the whole premise of all these supernatural beings and creatures existing, as well as greek gods and gods from other mythologies was really cool. It kept the whole story really interesting because there was so much different lore to learn and so many different things happening simultaneously that it was impossible to be bored.
Finding out as well that it was the gods who built the city that they're all living in was really interesting, and even more insane when it was revealed that the gods were real and not just fabrications for religion.
All of the world building and character development and relationships throughout were a true delight to read as well. it was so clear that a lot of attention has been poured into making this book and series the best that it can possibly be because everything was just so vivid and alive if that makes sense? When reading it really felt like things were flowing perfectly, and that things were jumping off the page with how well they had been described.
I feel like this book would have been cool enough if it was just about the romance between Lucien and Kleos, the supernatural elements and figuring more out about the gods, but it got even more INSANE when the murder mystery/unsolved case was presented!!! I was eating it up and this point and just couldn't put it down because i had to find out what was happening.
The set up for all of this is that Kleos has been attacked by someone who is trying to make her a puppet, and runes were carved into her that had her burning from the inside out. Kleos was trying to figure it all out on her own with no luck so ended up telling her two closest friends, who then roped Lucien into helping too (which he didn't mind at all because he was already obsessed with her at this point). Figuring out who is trying to hurt Kleos means that her and Lucien end up having to spend a lot of time together trying to figure everything out while also keeping her safe 😏
Truly an amazing book, and one that i won't stop thinking about any time soon!
I can't wait to see what will happen in the second book, especially after the cliffhanger and epilogue where we hear from a mystery POV that despises one of the main characters 😬
It's full of so many cool tropes and interesting elements including;
🖤 Rival Families and Natural Enemies
🖤 interfering Gods and Monsters
🖤 Dark world
🖤 Sm🥵t
🖤 Who did this to you 😏
🖤 Norse and Grecian mythology
🖤 angst and slow burn romance
🖤 hades x persephone vibes
I knew i was going to love this one after reading the first chapter because i was already obsessed with everything about it! Both characters seemed like they were going to be incredibly interesting and fun, and completely different to most main characters that are in fantasy romance's, and i wasn't wrong!!
They were complete and total opposites, while fitting together like two pieces of the same puzzle. The only way i can really describe it is that it felt like they were 'fated mates' with just how compatible they were, let alone how obsessed they were with finding out every detail about each other.
And yet while they are constantly flirting and bantering with each other the whole way through, nothing actually happens between them until about 70% of the way through the book! (it was slow burn in the most delicious sense)
I also really loved the parallel that Kleos was meant to be the 'light' character and Lucien was meant to be the 'dark' one, yet they both inhabit this grey area because they don't fit into the groups that society has put them into.
Lucien is perceived to be this big bad bogeyman by everyone who knows of him. He is a dark sorcerer that does unspeakable acts of evil, and yet he is actually a huge softie with a really big heart who is always trying to help his friends and make life better for everyone that lives under the main city.
Kleos is seen as being this darling of the upper city who can do no wrong, a successful healer and academic with a heart of gold, and yet she has this darker side that she is always hiding from society. She doesn't want the same things that they all do, and has a really nasty side that comes out if anyone she cares about is hurt.
I also thought that the whole premise of all these supernatural beings and creatures existing, as well as greek gods and gods from other mythologies was really cool. It kept the whole story really interesting because there was so much different lore to learn and so many different things happening simultaneously that it was impossible to be bored.
Finding out as well that it was the gods who built the city that they're all living in was really interesting, and even more insane when it was revealed that the gods were real and not just fabrications for religion.
All of the world building and character development and relationships throughout were a true delight to read as well. it was so clear that a lot of attention has been poured into making this book and series the best that it can possibly be because everything was just so vivid and alive if that makes sense? When reading it really felt like things were flowing perfectly, and that things were jumping off the page with how well they had been described.
I feel like this book would have been cool enough if it was just about the romance between Lucien and Kleos, the supernatural elements and figuring more out about the gods, but it got even more INSANE when the murder mystery/unsolved case was presented!!! I was eating it up and this point and just couldn't put it down because i had to find out what was happening.
The set up for all of this is that Kleos has been attacked by someone who is trying to make her a puppet, and runes were carved into her that had her burning from the inside out. Kleos was trying to figure it all out on her own with no luck so ended up telling her two closest friends, who then roped Lucien into helping too (which he didn't mind at all because he was already obsessed with her at this point). Figuring out who is trying to hurt Kleos means that her and Lucien end up having to spend a lot of time together trying to figure everything out while also keeping her safe 😏
Truly an amazing book, and one that i won't stop thinking about any time soon!
I can't wait to see what will happen in the second book, especially after the cliffhanger and epilogue where we hear from a mystery POV that despises one of the main characters 😬
July 29, 2026
Plot: 1
Writing: 1
World building: .5
Characters: 1
Themes: .5
4/5
Spice: 3/5
Audiobook: 4/5
What you can expect:
- Slow burn (Like...SLOW and its mostly angst)
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Murder mystery-ish
- Urban-like fantasy
- Greek gods
- Cliffhanger
There was a lot going on. Maybe even too much? The middle section of the book was harder for me to get through. What I was drawn to the most were the characters - banter, tension, angst.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tantor media for an ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Writing: 1
World building: .5
Characters: 1
Themes: .5
4/5
Spice: 3/5
Audiobook: 4/5
What you can expect:
- Slow burn (Like...SLOW and its mostly angst)
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Murder mystery-ish
- Urban-like fantasy
- Greek gods
- Cliffhanger
There was a lot going on. Maybe even too much? The middle section of the book was harder for me to get through. What I was drawn to the most were the characters - banter, tension, angst.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tantor media for an ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Read
July 3, 2026🌙🖤 Vow Forever Night 🖤🌙
📖 Bookish Thoughts
My full review will be shared closer to the publication date.
❤️🔥 What to Expect
• Dark Romantasy
• Morally Gray MMC
• Touch Her and Die
• Protective Hero
• Sorcerer MMC
• Obsessed Hero
• Dual Narration
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: July 14, 2026
Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for the advanced listening copy.
📖 Bookish Thoughts
My full review will be shared closer to the publication date.
❤️🔥 What to Expect
• Dark Romantasy
• Morally Gray MMC
• Touch Her and Die
• Protective Hero
• Sorcerer MMC
• Obsessed Hero
• Dual Narration
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: July 14, 2026
Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for the advanced listening copy.
July 21, 2026
Ah I am so glad I’ve finally managed to read this book (and listened to the audiobook- thank you for the ALC for NetGalley) because it was amazing!
The world building was captivating. The banter was everything. The MMC was cocky and oh so sexy. The FMC was fierce. The story was so exciting and full of mystery.
And the ending? Excuse me! But this ending should be illegal! It was totally unexpected and left me speechless for hours!
The world building was captivating. The banter was everything. The MMC was cocky and oh so sexy. The FMC was fierce. The story was so exciting and full of mystery.
And the ending? Excuse me! But this ending should be illegal! It was totally unexpected and left me speechless for hours!
July 30, 2025
Dang this was a fun read. I have read a few books that had this vibe lately and it just puts a smile on my face. spoilers ahead.
FMC:
Kleos. Fabulous and top knotch. She has this inner strength but you can see her still struggling with her reality and the family she was born into. I am hoping we see a more rebellious streak in book two with actual moves to be more than she is, but I'll try and be patient.
MMC:
obsessed. I love when the main male character is utterly obsessed but either hasn't realized or acknowledged it. love every second of it. Their banter and playfulness just made this a super fun read for me. And the steam at the end 🥵 can we just be together now?
Side characters:
Now I usually don't have a separate section to go over side characters, but the ones in this book need mentioning.
Silver- why do I distrust her so much? every scene she is in I don't see best friend I just feel so distrustful. Maybe my bad guy meter is off.
Gideon and Ronan- these two are fantastic counter parts to Lucian and it makes so many normal scenes funny.
The Regis family:
Why do I feel like this story absolutely needed the Regis clan? knowing them is such a nice counter balance to not ever seeing Kleos' family.
Plot:
Now the plot is slow going as it usually is with investigation books and I am ready to find out more in book two especially since we end by involving all the gods. I wish I would've known the second book doesn't come out for a bit, but I am extremely glad I read this close to the release date because I need to know what is happening.
Overall I devoured this book. It is clever and funny and keeps you engaged. The plot isn't something super in depth and crazy which may turn some readers of the genre off but I loved it
FMC:
Kleos. Fabulous and top knotch. She has this inner strength but you can see her still struggling with her reality and the family she was born into. I am hoping we see a more rebellious streak in book two with actual moves to be more than she is, but I'll try and be patient.
MMC:
obsessed. I love when the main male character is utterly obsessed but either hasn't realized or acknowledged it. love every second of it. Their banter and playfulness just made this a super fun read for me. And the steam at the end 🥵 can we just be together now?
Side characters:
Now I usually don't have a separate section to go over side characters, but the ones in this book need mentioning.
Silver- why do I distrust her so much? every scene she is in I don't see best friend I just feel so distrustful. Maybe my bad guy meter is off.
Gideon and Ronan- these two are fantastic counter parts to Lucian and it makes so many normal scenes funny.
The Regis family:
Why do I feel like this story absolutely needed the Regis clan? knowing them is such a nice counter balance to not ever seeing Kleos' family.
Plot:
Now the plot is slow going as it usually is with investigation books and I am ready to find out more in book two especially since we end by involving all the gods. I wish I would've known the second book doesn't come out for a bit, but I am extremely glad I read this close to the release date because I need to know what is happening.
Overall I devoured this book. It is clever and funny and keeps you engaged. The plot isn't something super in depth and crazy which may turn some readers of the genre off but I loved it
July 30, 2026
Honestly this was so bingeable. I am kind of obsessed and craving book 2! Formal review to come. But damn May Sage is one to watch out for.
Oh wow I never wrote this formal review?? Guess I need to remedy that soon. I loved this book as much the second time around! 5/5 stars
✨ “I turned to her sleeping contented face, beautiful in her innocent slumber. ‘You’re going to be the death of me, aren’t you?’”
I’m obsessed with this book and these characters! I’m screaming it from the rooftops: read this star crossed, dated love story of a dark sorcerer whose power is so strong he can’t touch anyone, except for the light magic healer who can’t seem to stay away from him. 🫦
Did I mention gods are involved? And a mysterious death curse, all in a city for the descents of the gods that’s split by a prejudiced caste system? It’s also exquisitely written with witty banter, on point pacing, excellent spice (I do mean excellent), and an all encompassing romance and world I couldn’t get enough of.
This book really surprised me. I had no idea what I was getting into the first time around, and I found complex characters with fascinating powers, a well built and deeply built world and class system, and a romance I became obsessed with. If you’re looking for urban fantasy or modern interactions with gods/descendants of gods, I recommend.
A very well done cliff hanger bc it had me wanting more the first time around and on this re-read too! Excited to jump into book 2, Until the End of Ever.
My one additional note is that books 3-4 are a romance about this fmc’s best friend, Silver, and a new mmc. So far I have not enjoyed Silver and I am hoping that I warm up to her in her books especially considering I accidentally bought her first book lol. We shall see. But I am curious for more content in this world regardless.
Oh wow I never wrote this formal review?? Guess I need to remedy that soon. I loved this book as much the second time around! 5/5 stars
✨ “I turned to her sleeping contented face, beautiful in her innocent slumber. ‘You’re going to be the death of me, aren’t you?’”
I’m obsessed with this book and these characters! I’m screaming it from the rooftops: read this star crossed, dated love story of a dark sorcerer whose power is so strong he can’t touch anyone, except for the light magic healer who can’t seem to stay away from him. 🫦
Did I mention gods are involved? And a mysterious death curse, all in a city for the descents of the gods that’s split by a prejudiced caste system? It’s also exquisitely written with witty banter, on point pacing, excellent spice (I do mean excellent), and an all encompassing romance and world I couldn’t get enough of.
This book really surprised me. I had no idea what I was getting into the first time around, and I found complex characters with fascinating powers, a well built and deeply built world and class system, and a romance I became obsessed with. If you’re looking for urban fantasy or modern interactions with gods/descendants of gods, I recommend.
A very well done cliff hanger bc it had me wanting more the first time around and on this re-read too! Excited to jump into book 2, Until the End of Ever.
My one additional note is that books 3-4 are a romance about this fmc’s best friend, Silver, and a new mmc. So far I have not enjoyed Silver and I am hoping that I warm up to her in her books especially considering I accidentally bought her first book lol. We shall see. But I am curious for more content in this world regardless.
October 2, 2025
It’s ok, it’s interesting enough that I will read the next one but it wasn’t safe enough for me to fully enjoy it.
Both MCs fucks around with OP, they knew each since they were teens but don’t interact much. It’s not clear if they slept with OP since the start of the H’s 6 months sentencing but I can say that apparently everyone is very free with sex and fucks around casually.
Also I hate the h’s bff, she’s so annoying in a judgmental way.
Both MCs fucks around with OP, they knew each since they were teens but don’t interact much. It’s not clear if they slept with OP since the start of the H’s 6 months sentencing but I can say that apparently everyone is very free with sex and fucks around casually.
Also I hate the h’s bff, she’s so annoying in a judgmental way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2026
I went into Vow Forever Night expecting one kind of story, but it quickly turned into something completely different—in the best way. What started as a fantasy romance soon pulled me into a world filled with ancient magic, powerful gods, mysterious runes, and a rivalry between light and darkness that kept me curious from beginning to end.
At the center of it all are Kleos, a light witch, and Lucian, a dark sorcerer whose loyalties should keep them apart. Their partnership begins out of necessity as they investigate the strange magic threatening their world, but it's impossible to ignore the attraction growing between them. Their relationship has that classic star-crossed feeling, almost like a magical version of Romeo and Juliet, and I really enjoyed watching it unfold.
One of my favorite things about this book was the dynamic between Lucian and Kleos. Their conversations were witty, full of tension, and genuinely entertaining. The slow-burn romance gave them plenty of time to build trust, making every small moment between them feel rewarding. Lucian completely stole the show for me—he acts confident and composed, but it's obvious he's already hopelessly devoted to Kleos, no matter how much he tries to deny it. I also appreciated that Kleos turned out to be far more layered than she first appeared. Just when I thought I had her figured out, the story revealed another side of her that made me like her even more.
The supporting cast added so much personality to the story. They brought humor, warmth, and memorable interactions that balanced out the darker moments, making the world feel even more alive.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narration honestly elevated the entire experience. The voices suited Lucian and Kleos perfectly, and the narrators captured both the emotional scenes and the playful banter so well that I found myself wanting to replay certain chapters just to hear those moments again. Even the side characters had distinct personalities thanks to the performances, which made the story even more immersive.
The fantasy elements were another highlight. I loved how the mythology, magic system, and divine influences were woven into the plot without feeling overwhelming. There were several twists I didn't see coming, and the action scenes were exciting whenever they appeared. The romantic moments also felt well-earned and added another layer to the story.
If I had one small criticism, it's that I wanted a little more from the main storyline. While I was never bored, I did wish the larger mystery had been explored in greater depth, and there were moments where I hoped for a bit more development before the story reached its conclusion.
Still, I had such a great time with this book. Between the engaging romance, the magical world, the fantastic narration, and an ending that left me with plenty of questions, I'm already looking forward to seeing where May Sage takes Lucian and Kleos next.
At the center of it all are Kleos, a light witch, and Lucian, a dark sorcerer whose loyalties should keep them apart. Their partnership begins out of necessity as they investigate the strange magic threatening their world, but it's impossible to ignore the attraction growing between them. Their relationship has that classic star-crossed feeling, almost like a magical version of Romeo and Juliet, and I really enjoyed watching it unfold.
One of my favorite things about this book was the dynamic between Lucian and Kleos. Their conversations were witty, full of tension, and genuinely entertaining. The slow-burn romance gave them plenty of time to build trust, making every small moment between them feel rewarding. Lucian completely stole the show for me—he acts confident and composed, but it's obvious he's already hopelessly devoted to Kleos, no matter how much he tries to deny it. I also appreciated that Kleos turned out to be far more layered than she first appeared. Just when I thought I had her figured out, the story revealed another side of her that made me like her even more.
The supporting cast added so much personality to the story. They brought humor, warmth, and memorable interactions that balanced out the darker moments, making the world feel even more alive.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narration honestly elevated the entire experience. The voices suited Lucian and Kleos perfectly, and the narrators captured both the emotional scenes and the playful banter so well that I found myself wanting to replay certain chapters just to hear those moments again. Even the side characters had distinct personalities thanks to the performances, which made the story even more immersive.
The fantasy elements were another highlight. I loved how the mythology, magic system, and divine influences were woven into the plot without feeling overwhelming. There were several twists I didn't see coming, and the action scenes were exciting whenever they appeared. The romantic moments also felt well-earned and added another layer to the story.
If I had one small criticism, it's that I wanted a little more from the main storyline. While I was never bored, I did wish the larger mystery had been explored in greater depth, and there were moments where I hoped for a bit more development before the story reached its conclusion.
Still, I had such a great time with this book. Between the engaging romance, the magical world, the fantastic narration, and an ending that left me with plenty of questions, I'm already looking forward to seeing where May Sage takes Lucian and Kleos next.
June 25, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
I don’t know what May Sage put in this book, but it was absolutely fantastic! I was hooked from page one, and could not put this book down until I got to that cliffhanger ending… and now I’m sitting here absolutely desperate to read book two! After an attack on her person that left a lasting reminder behind, Kleos is determined to find out just who she may have crossed that wishes to make an enemy out of her… when he search leads no where though and new revelations surface Kleos is forced to get some outside, unconventional help. Lucian is a very powerful dark sorcerer who answers to no one and has always been drawn to the strange girl with red hair, mostly because something about her magic seems off. What he never expected though was that she’d one day come to ask for his help with a magic problem. And even worse he never thought he’d find himself in a situation where he found someone he could truly connect with, even if her strange signature gives him pause. When things start to get out of hand though Lucian agrees to help in whatever way he can… something he may come to regret as being near Kleos is stirring up feelings he should absolutely not be having. And helping her out could either be their greatest strength or their inevitable downfall! If you’re looking for a book that is filled to the brim with characters you can’t help but fall in love with, found family, adorable animal companion, a mystery that will keep you guessing, and a slow burn, forbidden romance that contains plenty of mutual pining, sweet moments, spice and a cliffhanger ending that’ll have you reaching immediately for book two than be sure to grab Vow Forever Night now!
Spice: 🌶️
I don’t know what May Sage put in this book, but it was absolutely fantastic! I was hooked from page one, and could not put this book down until I got to that cliffhanger ending… and now I’m sitting here absolutely desperate to read book two! After an attack on her person that left a lasting reminder behind, Kleos is determined to find out just who she may have crossed that wishes to make an enemy out of her… when he search leads no where though and new revelations surface Kleos is forced to get some outside, unconventional help. Lucian is a very powerful dark sorcerer who answers to no one and has always been drawn to the strange girl with red hair, mostly because something about her magic seems off. What he never expected though was that she’d one day come to ask for his help with a magic problem. And even worse he never thought he’d find himself in a situation where he found someone he could truly connect with, even if her strange signature gives him pause. When things start to get out of hand though Lucian agrees to help in whatever way he can… something he may come to regret as being near Kleos is stirring up feelings he should absolutely not be having. And helping her out could either be their greatest strength or their inevitable downfall! If you’re looking for a book that is filled to the brim with characters you can’t help but fall in love with, found family, adorable animal companion, a mystery that will keep you guessing, and a slow burn, forbidden romance that contains plenty of mutual pining, sweet moments, spice and a cliffhanger ending that’ll have you reaching immediately for book two than be sure to grab Vow Forever Night now!
July 11, 2025
Thank you for this gifted ARC from May Sage.
A Mythology-Infused, Sexy, and Fast-Paced Read That Keeps You Hooked
Note: I discovered this book/author as part of my reading journey for RARE London 2025.
✨Short Review✨
"Vow Forever Night" is a contemporary fantasy set against mythological Greek gods and magic. Told in dual POV, we follow Lucian, a grumpy dark sorcerer from an elite family, and Kleos, a bold light witch. The story feels like a Romeo and Juliet retelling with plenty of tension and mystery.
The plot drives the story: murders, a cursed rune, and simmering sexual tension that finally ignites in steamy scenes. While not heavy on emotional depth, it’s an addictive, quick read that had me hooked by the end.
If you want a fast, spicy read with mythology and mystery, this is for you!
✨Long Review✨
This was an enjoyable read that started gradually but pulled me in more and more as the story unfolded, until I found myself reading into the early hours of the morning.
"Vow Forever Night" is a contemporary fantasy with mythological Greek gods and a magical setting.
The story is told in dual POV, following two characters from very different worlds in what feels like a Romeo and Juliet-style retelling.
Lucian is a grumpy, powerful dark sorcerer; withdrawn, work-focused, ridiculously wealthy, and from one of the most elite magical families. Though I expected him to be darker and more morally grey, but he still carries a strong, intense presence.
Kleos, by contrast, is bold, bright, and persistent; a sunshine light witch also born into a powerful magical bloodline.
Both characters are in their twenties (27 and 23), and share a deep passion with rune magic, which becomes central to the story.
This book is not character-driven, and it doesn't go deep into emotional or psychological themes. Instead, the focus is clearly plot-driven: a string of murders, the mystery of a cursed rune, and a steadily building sexual tension between Lucian and Kleos. Once the pace picks up, it's hard to stop turning the pages, and I literally couldn’t put the book down.
The tension between the two leads simmers until it finally explodes. There's no prolonged teasing here, the spice hits, and it's definitely wet-your-panties level.
There are a couple of minor issues I noticed:
- A timeline inconsistency between Kleos' cursing (chapter 2) and Lucian's POV (chapter 3, marked six months later), followed by Kleos later saying she’s only had the rune for a week.
- The Pan’s pub scene was great and well done, but the follow-up at home felt rushed and underdeveloped. After such a steamy moment, I was left wanting more weight and emotional follow-through; it felt out of sync and left me feeling a bit hungry for more.
- And as mentioned, Lucian’s character could’ve leaned more into his darker, morally ambiguous side to fully deliver on what his setup promises.
While the book ends a bit unexpectedly, you’re left eager to find out what happens next. Thankfully, May Sage doesn’t make us wait long, she prefers to write her stories straight through and split them only when necessary. That’s why the sequel arrives just a month later, so we won’t be left hanging.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, sexy, mythology-infused read that’s light on emotional heaviness but heavy on intrigue and tension, "Vow Forever Night" delivers exactly that.
A Mythology-Infused, Sexy, and Fast-Paced Read That Keeps You Hooked
Note: I discovered this book/author as part of my reading journey for RARE London 2025.
✨Short Review✨
"Vow Forever Night" is a contemporary fantasy set against mythological Greek gods and magic. Told in dual POV, we follow Lucian, a grumpy dark sorcerer from an elite family, and Kleos, a bold light witch. The story feels like a Romeo and Juliet retelling with plenty of tension and mystery.
The plot drives the story: murders, a cursed rune, and simmering sexual tension that finally ignites in steamy scenes. While not heavy on emotional depth, it’s an addictive, quick read that had me hooked by the end.
If you want a fast, spicy read with mythology and mystery, this is for you!
✨Long Review✨
This was an enjoyable read that started gradually but pulled me in more and more as the story unfolded, until I found myself reading into the early hours of the morning.
"Vow Forever Night" is a contemporary fantasy with mythological Greek gods and a magical setting.
The story is told in dual POV, following two characters from very different worlds in what feels like a Romeo and Juliet-style retelling.
Lucian is a grumpy, powerful dark sorcerer; withdrawn, work-focused, ridiculously wealthy, and from one of the most elite magical families. Though I expected him to be darker and more morally grey, but he still carries a strong, intense presence.
Kleos, by contrast, is bold, bright, and persistent; a sunshine light witch also born into a powerful magical bloodline.
Both characters are in their twenties (27 and 23), and share a deep passion with rune magic, which becomes central to the story.
This book is not character-driven, and it doesn't go deep into emotional or psychological themes. Instead, the focus is clearly plot-driven: a string of murders, the mystery of a cursed rune, and a steadily building sexual tension between Lucian and Kleos. Once the pace picks up, it's hard to stop turning the pages, and I literally couldn’t put the book down.
The tension between the two leads simmers until it finally explodes. There's no prolonged teasing here, the spice hits, and it's definitely wet-your-panties level.
There are a couple of minor issues I noticed:
- A timeline inconsistency between Kleos' cursing (chapter 2) and Lucian's POV (chapter 3, marked six months later), followed by Kleos later saying she’s only had the rune for a week.
- The Pan’s pub scene was great and well done, but the follow-up at home felt rushed and underdeveloped. After such a steamy moment, I was left wanting more weight and emotional follow-through; it felt out of sync and left me feeling a bit hungry for more.
- And as mentioned, Lucian’s character could’ve leaned more into his darker, morally ambiguous side to fully deliver on what his setup promises.
While the book ends a bit unexpectedly, you’re left eager to find out what happens next. Thankfully, May Sage doesn’t make us wait long, she prefers to write her stories straight through and split them only when necessary. That’s why the sequel arrives just a month later, so we won’t be left hanging.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, sexy, mythology-infused read that’s light on emotional heaviness but heavy on intrigue and tension, "Vow Forever Night" delivers exactly that.
August 24, 2025
There's a reason . . .
I really liked this book, this world, and even these characters.
In a city that seemed almost created by the cupped hands of ancient gods and crafted by long forgotten deities, paranormals, demigods, and witches all congregate to survive free from the mortal eyes of man.
Created by the gods and ruled by their children, this city is both a utopia and prison. Old and new ways clashing; prejudices are hard to overcome even when you're part of one of the 5 original ruling houses. This story shows a lot about the inate prejudices people have that are passed down through generations or areas and are often not questioned.
While I enjoyed this book, there were moments I felt like I must have slept read a whole section of the book. Around page 41ish, when Kley and Gideon go to the Unders, there are quite a few references to 'last time we were here a year ago. . .'?!? Ugh🤔🤨😶. In the 41ish pages, the book starts 6 months prior to chapter 1 and then we get only a couple weeks later. There is another reference about turning up at Lucian's house and he answers half asleep. I have no idea where any of these scenes are coming from, but it's not from this book. If it's not from this book, frankly, don't bring it up. It's confusing AF. Honestly I would give it 4 stars if it wasn't for that. But I was just so confused and reread over 40 pages just to make sure I didn't miss anything thing Spoiler - I didn't.
I really liked this book, this world, and even these characters.
In a city that seemed almost created by the cupped hands of ancient gods and crafted by long forgotten deities, paranormals, demigods, and witches all congregate to survive free from the mortal eyes of man.
Created by the gods and ruled by their children, this city is both a utopia and prison. Old and new ways clashing; prejudices are hard to overcome even when you're part of one of the 5 original ruling houses. This story shows a lot about the inate prejudices people have that are passed down through generations or areas and are often not questioned.
While I enjoyed this book, there were moments I felt like I must have slept read a whole section of the book. Around page 41ish, when Kley and Gideon go to the Unders, there are quite a few references to 'last time we were here a year ago. . .'?!? Ugh🤔🤨😶. In the 41ish pages, the book starts 6 months prior to chapter 1 and then we get only a couple weeks later. There is another reference about turning up at Lucian's house and he answers half asleep. I have no idea where any of these scenes are coming from, but it's not from this book. If it's not from this book, frankly, don't bring it up. It's confusing AF. Honestly I would give it 4 stars if it wasn't for that. But I was just so confused and reread over 40 pages just to make sure I didn't miss anything thing Spoiler - I didn't.
November 14, 2025
4,5 ⭐
4 things: dark wizard gets the girl, greek mythology, he calls her love, YEARNING.
Need I say more? I don't think so. I can't wait to read the sequel.
The banter is sharp enough to cut glass.
The tension could power a small village.
Lucian quotes:
"Bloody fuckpants of Hades. I should have murdered him as a toddler."
"I wasn't that much of a stalker. I just happened to... observe her when she was in my vicinity."
"There was only one woman in the entire city whose simple mention made me pause."
"Who did this to you?"
"But I should have been the one thank her. Getting to my knees and worshipping her. She was hugging me. She didn't get it. How could she? She didn't understand that my own mother never could have wrapped her arms around me like this while i was at full power. I couldn't help it. My arms circled her, and held her close. I felt like myself... I never believed this would happen to me. Kleos was warmth and light and goodness and hugging me. I have to let go sometime. Soon. Too soon."
"I have to wonder if your goal is getting kidnapped by a dark wizard."
"Be very careful what you ask of me, love. You might just get it."
"I needed to see her with Regis family heirloom around her neck."
"You're going to be the death of me, aren't you?"
"Careful, love."
"Mine. Mine. Mine. Except she wasn't, was she?"
🇬🇧
4 things: dark wizard gets the girl, greek mythology, he calls her love, YEARNING.
Need I say more? I don't think so. I can't wait to read the sequel.
The banter is sharp enough to cut glass.
The tension could power a small village.
Lucian quotes:
"Bloody fuckpants of Hades. I should have murdered him as a toddler."
"I wasn't that much of a stalker. I just happened to... observe her when she was in my vicinity."
"There was only one woman in the entire city whose simple mention made me pause."
"Who did this to you?"
"But I should have been the one thank her. Getting to my knees and worshipping her. She was hugging me. She didn't get it. How could she? She didn't understand that my own mother never could have wrapped her arms around me like this while i was at full power. I couldn't help it. My arms circled her, and held her close. I felt like myself... I never believed this would happen to me. Kleos was warmth and light and goodness and hugging me. I have to let go sometime. Soon. Too soon."
"I have to wonder if your goal is getting kidnapped by a dark wizard."
"Be very careful what you ask of me, love. You might just get it."
"I needed to see her with Regis family heirloom around her neck."
"You're going to be the death of me, aren't you?"
"Careful, love."
"Mine. Mine. Mine. Except she wasn't, was she?"
🇬🇧
June 27, 2025
I regret to inform you that this book will be my entire personality for the foreseeable future. Y’all I loved this! The story pulled me in from the jump. Magic? Gods? Sexy dark sorcerer? Throw in a dash of murder mystery. Yep, sign me up.
If you love:
- Great banter
- “Love” as a pet name
- Demon kitty/sweet puppy
- A man with a signet ring 😏
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. From the plot to the characters to the writing style. This is book one of a duet, and without giving too much away we got to see the two MCs relationship evolve from knowing of each other, to getting to know each other (and maybe spending every possible moment together). The feelings of attraction are mutual and we get a taste of spice (and I must say, I’d like another serving please 😏). The book ends unresolved, but it’s not a brutal cliffhanger that keeps you up at night stewing. And I cannot wait to read book two when it comes out.
𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘪𝘴 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
If you love:
- Great banter
- “Love” as a pet name
- Demon kitty/sweet puppy
- A man with a signet ring 😏
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. From the plot to the characters to the writing style. This is book one of a duet, and without giving too much away we got to see the two MCs relationship evolve from knowing of each other, to getting to know each other (and maybe spending every possible moment together). The feelings of attraction are mutual and we get a taste of spice (and I must say, I’d like another serving please 😏). The book ends unresolved, but it’s not a brutal cliffhanger that keeps you up at night stewing. And I cannot wait to read book two when it comes out.
𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘪𝘴 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
July 28, 2026
Vow Forever Night is an urban fantasy, set in a world where witches and vampires mingle with the demigods of the Greek pantheon.
The story features around bubbly and effervescent Kleos, who seeks the help of dark, brooding and brutal warlock Lucian when mysterious runes spontaneously brand into her skin overnight.
Our MC’s romance puts the slow in slowburn, but if you’re keen on grumpy x sunshine and yeaaaaaarning, then this might do it for you. The supporting characters are fantastic too (Silver is my favourite) and they add a lot to humour of the story. The groundwork for found family vibes has definitely been laid!
But hot damn, the going is slow. So slow, in fact, that even when I nodded off at times while listening to it, I didn’t seem to miss anything.
I do have to give the world building 5 stars - this was the strongest aspect of the book for me. From genealogy to geographic, the world has been fleshed out beautifully.
The plot (and the spice) only really gets going at around the 80% mark, and the sudden change in pace is quite discordant, then feels like a sprint to the finish. Also, a head’s up about the cliffhanger ending!
Narration is done in duet, and the voice actors did a superb job.
Special mention also needs to be made of the gorgeous cover - it’s a beaut!
You might like this if you enjoyed The Irresistible Urge to Fall for your Enemy.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the ALC. opinions are my own.
The story features around bubbly and effervescent Kleos, who seeks the help of dark, brooding and brutal warlock Lucian when mysterious runes spontaneously brand into her skin overnight.
Our MC’s romance puts the slow in slowburn, but if you’re keen on grumpy x sunshine and yeaaaaaarning, then this might do it for you. The supporting characters are fantastic too (Silver is my favourite) and they add a lot to humour of the story. The groundwork for found family vibes has definitely been laid!
But hot damn, the going is slow. So slow, in fact, that even when I nodded off at times while listening to it, I didn’t seem to miss anything.
I do have to give the world building 5 stars - this was the strongest aspect of the book for me. From genealogy to geographic, the world has been fleshed out beautifully.
The plot (and the spice) only really gets going at around the 80% mark, and the sudden change in pace is quite discordant, then feels like a sprint to the finish. Also, a head’s up about the cliffhanger ending!
Narration is done in duet, and the voice actors did a superb job.
Special mention also needs to be made of the gorgeous cover - it’s a beaut!
You might like this if you enjoyed The Irresistible Urge to Fall for your Enemy.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the ALC. opinions are my own.
November 23, 2025
This was so much fun! It entertained me through all of it but now afterwards when I think about it, not too much actually happened? But it didn't bother me because I enjoyed reading it. A bit strange actually how that worked out for me...
Anyway, I like the world and how it's mixing this kind of magic and gods. It also gives off a little Romeo and Juliet kind of vibes at times. I really enjoyed that Lucian was so cocky and arrogant 🤭 but totally gone for her, a real protective dude let me tell you.
Kleos, also very likeable. I found her a bit mysterious even though she wasn't? I can't really explain it. I really liked her and her sense of being, so kind and brave.
There are also very likeable side characters, they are all so funny. It's a lot of fun reading this and all the things they get up to. The ending was also very interesting and left me with a bit more questions than I thought I would have.
Anyway, I like the world and how it's mixing this kind of magic and gods. It also gives off a little Romeo and Juliet kind of vibes at times. I really enjoyed that Lucian was so cocky and arrogant 🤭 but totally gone for her, a real protective dude let me tell you.
Kleos, also very likeable. I found her a bit mysterious even though she wasn't? I can't really explain it. I really liked her and her sense of being, so kind and brave.
There are also very likeable side characters, they are all so funny. It's a lot of fun reading this and all the things they get up to. The ending was also very interesting and left me with a bit more questions than I thought I would have.
July 8, 2026
i was completely expecting a different story. the ALC given was amazing. Lucien and Kleps are such a fun couple and reading their story and their banter just kept me going back for more. the slow burn made for a cute tension filled friendship that ended up with WELP 🙂↕️
the narrators KILLED IT. i don’t think i could have envisioned a better Lucien and Kleos. they also did so well narrating the side characters and MADE me want to pick up the book just to read a scene again or squeal at how they said it sounded amazing. 10/10 May Sage picked awesome narrators.
Kleos had me there for a second when i thought May Sage was going to make her into the brat she portrayed but in reality we realize we don’t know her at all. Lucien- already down bad no matter what he says. the smut was hot and the action was good. i loved the plot twists, this miscommunication trope is so dramione coded LORD. Def recommending, already ruining my July TBR to read book 2 LOL.
✨ tropes ✨
⭐️ divine meddling
🌙 who did this to you
💫 Hades/Persephone vibes
⭐️ grown up characters
🌙 angst and SLOW burn
💫 SPICY 🌶️
the narrators KILLED IT. i don’t think i could have envisioned a better Lucien and Kleos. they also did so well narrating the side characters and MADE me want to pick up the book just to read a scene again or squeal at how they said it sounded amazing. 10/10 May Sage picked awesome narrators.
Kleos had me there for a second when i thought May Sage was going to make her into the brat she portrayed but in reality we realize we don’t know her at all. Lucien- already down bad no matter what he says. the smut was hot and the action was good. i loved the plot twists, this miscommunication trope is so dramione coded LORD. Def recommending, already ruining my July TBR to read book 2 LOL.
✨ tropes ✨
⭐️ divine meddling
🌙 who did this to you
💫 Hades/Persephone vibes
⭐️ grown up characters
🌙 angst and SLOW burn
💫 SPICY 🌶️
August 2, 2025
I loved it!
But from club scene to the end of book it felt rushed. Still I can't wait for book 2 though!
But from club scene to the end of book it felt rushed. Still I can't wait for book 2 though!
October 15, 2025
4.5
I’m very into the world of Highvale, and the slow burn was BURNING. Very excited for the second part of this duology.
I’m very into the world of Highvale, and the slow burn was BURNING. Very excited for the second part of this duology.
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