The Road of Bones

The Road of Bones is a unique entry in the romantasy genre that combines Vikings with an intriguing magic system, setting it apart from the usual tropes. The world-building is rich, filled with Norse-inspired elements that pull you into a dark, atmospheric setting. The story has plenty of action, and the romance aspect, while not groundbreaking, has an engaging dynamic that complements the plot well. Unfortunately, the smut is quite basic—it’s there, but it doesn’t go far enough to be memorable. Some of the plot twists feel predictable, lacking the punch that would elevate the story to the next level. However, as the book progresses, it manages to hit its stride, building up to a satisfying ending that leaves just enough mystery and intrigue to make you curious about the next installment. If you’re a fan of Viking-themed romantasy and don’t mind a few predictable moments, The Road of Bones is worth a read and sets up what could be a promising series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via Netgalley)

I enjoyed this. I really liked the world and I thought the characters showed progression (some positive, some negative) as the story went on. Super curious where the next one goes after some of the twists at the end!

Sadness is filling my veins after reading this for two reasons. I didn't love this book as much as I thought I would.

You can tell the love the author put into this book from the research to the beautiful writing and the depth of the character development. If my review was just that, five stars zero doubt.

BUT it's not. The writing was so SLOW for me. I was reading this on my kindle and ending up buying the audio book other wise. I did love our characters and that's why I stuck around.

The second thing I am very sad about. I had surgery yesterday and all I wanted to do after surgery was listen to this audiobook and play animal crossing so that is what I did! My drugged brain did not follow the plot twist at all which heavily affected my ability to love this book.

Also I knew that no good son and a bitch!! I knew it I knew it. I had bad vibes from the start.

The last quarter of this book is an absolute roller coaster, but at the midway point I wasn't sure I was going to continue this series.

Silla can be incredibly naive, and I don't always have the patience for that (especially in a book this long). Some of her internal dialogue felt too repetitive for me, but there's enough character growth by the end that I don't think that will be as much of an issue moving forward.

There are twists. One in particular felt a little clunky. I could tell where the author was trying to build it up but it felt so out of the blue that I thought the character's emotions were being manipulated through magic. The other big twist was a fun surprise I hadn't considered, and that is the one that is bringing me back. I had an idea of where the plot was going and was pleasantly surprised to be wrong.

Recommended for people who like fantasy romance, slow burn romance, found family, and a sunshine main character who is full of secrets.

The next book seems to have some tropes I enjoy so I'll continue reading, but I don't know that I'll come back and reread this one.