Category: Tracy’s Reviews

The Devil in Oxford by Jess Armstrong

On By TracyIn First Person Narrative, Historical Mystery, New To Me Author, Part of a Series, Tracy's ReviewsLeave a comment

The Devil in Oxford (Ruby Vaughn, #3)The Devil in Oxford by Jess Armstrong

Tracy’s Rating: 3 of 5 stars

Series: Ruby Vaughn #3

Release Date: November 4, 2025

As a first-time reader diving into Jess Armstrong’s award-winning Ruby Vaughn series via The Devil in Oxford, I was immediately struck by the intriguing premise—a historical murder mystery set amid the scholarly halls of 1920s Oxford, with a dash of the occult. Armstrong’s ability to weave together elements of gothic suspense, romance, and academic intrigue makes for a richly textured read, and the atmospheric setting of Oxford is certainly a highlight. From twisting alleys to evocative libraries, the city feels alive with secrets and shadows, and the cast of side characters (including the ever-present feline companion) adds plenty of charm and color.

However, as much as I appreciated the layered plot and the darkly alluring world, I found myself struggling with the first-person, single POV narrative. Ruby Vaughn is undeniably compelling—resourceful, funny, and stubbornly independent—but her voice sometimes felt overwhelming, and I wished for more distance or perspective from other characters. At times, the writing style made it difficult for me to emotionally connect with Ruby or fully appreciate the complexities of her relationships, especially with the enigmatic Ruan Kivell. Some of the dialogue quirks, like Mrs. Penrose’s repeated use of “my lover,” also pulled me out of the story rather than deepening the Cornish atmosphere.

As someone who missed the first two books, I occasionally felt adrift among the references to earlier events and Ruby’s mysterious past, though the author does provide enough context for new readers to catch up by the end. The murder itself is gruesome and sensational, and while the investigation is peppered with clues and red herrings, the resolution didn’t quite satisfy me—especially since the killer’s connection to the main cast echoed patterns from previous installments. I would have liked to see more focus on Ruby’s supernatural gifts and the series’ otherworldly elements, which seem to have taken a back seat to cozier vibes in this book.

*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. *

Isle of Waiting by G.W. Prouse

On By TracyIn Check Content Warning/Triggers, Fairytale Retelling, Historical Paranormal/Fantasy, New To Me Author, Paranormal / Fantasy, Romantasy, Standalone Title, Tracy's Reviews, Young AdultLeave a comment

Isle of WaitingIsle of Waiting by G.W. Prouse

Tracy’s Rating: 3 of 5 stars

Series: Standalone

Release Date: November 4, 2025

Set in an evocative, famine-stricken version of early 1900s Greece. The story follows Kora, a young woman whose world has been shaped by the mysterious disappearance of the Immortals. Her life, though quiet and ordinary, takes a dramatic turn when her twin brother William is killed while protecting her, thrusting Kora into a supernatural bargain to save his soul. I appreciated the imaginative premise and how the author wove together mythic and fairytale elements, particularly with Shade—a god reminiscent of both Hades and Peter Pan, whose reluctance and vulnerability add intrigue to the plot.

Kora herself is a memorable protagonist: stubborn, loyal, and surprisingly brave. Her interactions with her family, especially her younger brother Michael, offer touching moments of warmth amid the story’s tension and loss. I also found her relationship with Shade compelling, with their slow-burn romance giving the book emotional depth. The setting—Greece on the edge of collapse—provides a compelling backdrop and heightens the stakes of Kora’s journey.

The blurb for this book intrigued me, but I did struggle at times with the pacing and the way the story balanced its dual inspirations, making the narrative harder to fully invest in. Some characters, particularly Shade, came across as more childish than I expected for a romantic lead, and the dialogue sometimes felt as if I was reading a YA novel rather than a romantasy. Overall, this was a touching story of love, loss, and self-discovery. And while it may not resonate with everyone—especially those looking for a more traditional mythological retelling—I think readers who enjoy unconventional fantasy, fairytale reimagining, will enjoy this book.

*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. *