Honest review of All the Promises We Cannot Keep

by CJ Redwine (Author) Bridgette O'Hare (Author)

Updated at: 05/02/2025

Step into the shadowed realms of All the Promises We Cannot Keep, a captivating anthology from The Writer's Sanctuary and the Red Herrings Society. Fifty-one authors weave a tapestry of interwoven tales, exploring the mysteries hidden within forgotten attics and ancestral halls. From crumbling manors to enchanted forests, these stories delve into the intricate dance between hope and despair, light and darkness. CJ Redwine and Bridgette O'Hare, among other talented writers, craft narratives that span generations and realms, revealing the secrets held within fractured lives and impossible promises. Prepare to uncover what lies between the cracks, where intrigue and beauty collide in a mesmerizing collection of unforgettable tales.

4.9 / 39 ratings

Review All the Promises We Cannot Keep

"All the Promises We Cannot Keep" is an anthology that truly lives up to its title – it's a collection of stories that explores the weight of promises, both kept and broken, across generations and fantastical realms. It’s a book I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who enjoys a diverse range of magical and adventurous tales, each with its own unique flavor. The sheer variety is staggering; one moment you’re immersed in a heartwarming tale of found family, the next you're swept away by a thrilling quest through a shadowy, otherworldly landscape.

The book's strength lies in its incredible diversity of voices. Each author brings a distinct style and perspective, creating a tapestry of narratives that’s both captivating and incredibly rich. Some stories are complete and satisfying in their own right, offering a self-contained journey that leaves you feeling full but wanting more. Others act as tantalizing glimpses into larger worlds, leaving you desperate to know more about the characters and the intricate magic systems at play. The "blood starlight" magic system mentioned in one review is a perfect example – it's a unique concept that immediately sparked my imagination and left me craving further exploration.

I particularly appreciated the blend of genres represented. There's romance, of course, with stories that explore the complexities of love, loss, and enduring connection. But there’s also plenty of adventure, mystery, and even a touch of the paranormal. The inclusion of heartwarming stories alongside those that delve into darker themes creates a satisfying balance, preventing the anthology from feeling one-note or predictable. The heartwarming narratives, focusing on themes of maternal love and found family, provided a welcome counterpoint to the thrilling adventures and the darker mysteries presented.

The length of the individual stories is also a noteworthy element. The variety in story length offers a nice dynamic for the reader. The shorter pieces are perfect for dipping in and out of, offering quick bursts of captivating storytelling. The longer narratives, however, allow for deeper exploration of characters and worlds, creating a compelling immersion for the reader. This variety caters to different reading preferences, making the anthology accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience.

While the sheer volume of stories means that some might not resonate as strongly as others, the overall quality is consistently high. Even the stories that didn’t completely capture my attention still demonstrated a remarkable level of creativity and imagination. The fact that this anthology provides such a broad spectrum of experiences within one volume is impressive and a testament to the collective talent of the authors involved. The inclusion of well-known names alongside emerging writers provides a truly satisfying blend of established skill and fresh perspectives.

In short, "All the Promises We Cannot Keep" is a treasure trove of magical narratives. It’s a testament to the power of collaborative storytelling and a captivating journey through a diverse range of worlds, characters, and emotions. It’s a book I’ll be recommending to fellow fantasy enthusiasts for a long time to come.