A review by natashaleighton_
Rose in Chains by Julie Soto

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Emotionally charged and hauntingly addictive, Julie Soto’s first foray into Dark Romantasy was as high stakes and tension filled as they come! 

The opening scenes (and aftermath of the war) were quite brutal to read through, with protagonist, Briony (and many others) captured and put up for auction. As such, I definitely advise checking the TWs beforehand. 

That being said, Soto explores them in as grounded and serious a manner as possible, never glorifying the abuse or trauma our characters face— something I’m very grateful for. 

I also really liked protagonist, Briony. As our sole POV character, she’s the only viewpoint we have in exploring this world and I found her perspective such a nuanced and emotionally evocative one. She’s not as outwardly rebellious as other FMCs in this genre. But the internalising of her fears, hopes and secret longings (of survivor’s guilt, shame, grief and even attraction) really made her feel soo real. 

And of course, I can’t not mention the slow burn and deliciously intense romance! Love interest, Toven was the ultimate brooding, Byron-esque figure, whose secretive nature intrigued me. And the glimmers of mutual attraction he and Briony share, (long before the war) was really great. It felt almost too delicate to explore, but I held an anticipatory breath through each and every scene! 

However, the skill with which Soto navigates the power dynamics (and budding relationship) was what I found the most impressive. I won’t go into any specifics (in case of spoilers) but Briony’s autonomy and growing sense of agency was absolutely divine. 

I just wish we’d explored the heart and mind-based magic system in a bit more depth. Overall, this was a gorgeously compelling read with a morally grey romance at its heart, and an ending that’ll be living rent free in my head until the sequel is released. 

Also, thanks to Harper Voyager UK for the proof. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings