This duology finale excites until the last with so many obstacles for Jase and Kazi to face that they are the very definition of star-crossed lovers. She never loses sight of her mission to save Jase's family, even when she thinks Jase is dead, even when she's sure she's dying, and even when she thinks his family will not accept her no matter what she does for them. Kazi is in near-constant danger in Vow of Thieves as a captive. Kazi (probably 18 years old by this book) is offered hard liquor. There's a little more swearing as well, but it doesn't go beyond 'horses-t,' and shouting 'a-hole' at horrible criminals. A woman's kidnapping leads to threat of sexual assault by two men who wield their power over her - two young children are threatened if she doesn't comply with their demands. A reaction to poisonous bite is nearly fatal, with pain, fever, convulsions, and hallucinations described. Decomposing bodies hanging in a square are briefly described, along with a severed hand and stab and arrow injuries that are slow to heal. Many are killed in explosions and fights with swords, arrows, and knives with some decapitations - but there's not much gore considering the carnage. The violence ratchets up from the first book, Dance of Thieves. By this book, a committed couple has had sex, though only kissing and undressing are described. Like the other series, these fantasy adventures are heavy on the romance. Overall one of my favorite fantasy reads of the year so far.Parents need to know that Vow of Thieves is the second in a duology set in the same group of kingdoms as the Remnant Chronicles trilogy. (Which I actually prefer but may be off-putting to some.) I am very happy with where the story leaves off and I think there are lots of surprises ahead of us in book 2. There's a heavy focus on romance but with a bigger plot looming over it all. The story was a little slow moving in some parts, largely due to the length of it but it's headed in a great direction. This book doesn't feel quite as 'fantasy' as The Remnant Chronicles did, however there's enough hints of magic and classic Pearson twists/deception that I didn't mind at all. It was so much fun to be back in this world and I enjoyed all the Easter eggs/cameos from the first trilogy. Would they kill each other or learn to get along? I love seeing how things unfold and the positive message that comes alongside it. I attended an author signing where she mentioned this story was based on the idea behind what would happen if two enemies were locked in a room together. The banter was funny and playful, it really helped keep the story flowing.

I really loved this! Jase and Kazi were a treat! We have some truly amazing character development in this. Bless you Mary Pearson for giving us an angsty romance that doesn't feel abusive at any point.

Dance thieves