Undead Oaths by Caitlyn Battelle

Tracy’s Rating: 3.5/4 of 5 stars

Series: Undead Gods #2

Release Date: January 5, 2026

Elysia Parker, the fierce and determined heroine, continues her struggle after striking a dangerous bargain with Aidan, the god of the dead. Her journey is fueled not only by her own survival but by the desperate need to save her sister and her kingdom from the encroaching soot plague. Elysia’s emotional turmoil and stubborn resolve make her relatable and compelling, while Aidan is portrayed with a unique vulnerability—his brooding nature and possessiveness are balanced by guilt and a desperate need for connection.

This installment of the Undead Gods trilogy is fast-paced and brimming with tension. The stakes are enormous, as Elysia races against time to defy the meddling fates and locate the elusive talisman that could save her world. The world building is vivid and atmospheric, immersing readers in a realm where necromancy, underworld chaos, and prophecies collide. Twists and revelations are deftly woven throughout the narrative, maintaining a sense of trepidation as the romance between Elysia and Aidan slow burning, tangled with distrust, longing, and fate that keeps readers invested in their journey. The book’s pacing is a little off at times, but still delivers an intriguing and captivating read. Overall, I enjoyed this story more than the first installment and will be impatiently waiting for the final installment!

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *

An Arcane Inheritance by Kamilah Cole

Tracy’s Rating: 3 of 5 stars

Series: N/A

Release Date: December 30, 2025

The story is ambitious, weaving together themes of race, privilege, and social power within the elite academic setting. The magic system—trading power for memories—adds a unique twist, infusing the story with both suspense and a sense of foreboding loss. However, much of the book focuses on Ellory’s internal struggles, and her perspective can feel repetitive as she navigates the challenges of belonging and uncovering the university’s secrets. While the supporting cast offers moments of intrigue, some characters come across as distant or underdeveloped, which makes it harder to form a strong emotional connection. The pacing is inconsistent, with a slow-building mystery in the first part and a rush of revelations and magical elements near the end, sometimes leaving key moments feeling abrupt.

Overall, I was intrigued by the promise of a story that offers an atmospheric and thought-provoking exploration of academia’s darker side, enriched by meaningful social commentary and a moody setting. While the concept and worldbuilding show real promise, the execution can feel uneven, especially in character development and pacing. Readers who enjoy introspective narratives and layered themes may find much to appreciate here, but for those such as myself who are seeking a tighter plot or more immediate emotional engagement, they might be left wanting. Despite its flaws, the book delivers a fresh take on dark academia and is worth a try for fans of the genre who appreciate a blend of magic, identity, and institutional critique.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *