Book: Veilmarch by Hallie Pursel
Reviewed by plotdrunk
Rating: 5/5
This quiet, gothic, poetic story follows Ilys from childhood to adulthood as she is shaped by the brutal duty of becoming a Veilwalker, one who walks with Death to collect those who attempt to hide from him. Watching her grow from an obedient child to a rebellious teenager and then into a woman forced to commit terrible acts in Death’s name was heartbreaking. The revelation that these murders were never truly Death’s will, but the King’s method of suppressing rebellion, made her suffering hit even harder. Grim’s and Baron’s deaths were especially devastating, particularly the way Grim’s fate was ultimately revealed to Ilys.
The relationship between Ilys and Death was the emotional core of the book for me. He begins as distant and godlike, then gradually becomes more present, warmer, and achingly human. Their slow-burn romance was full of longing, restraint, and devotion, and it unfolded in a beautifully understated way. I also loved how familiar romantasy tropes were used thoughtfully here. One bed, one horse, enemies to lovers, feminine rage, and tending to wounds all appeared, but each served the larger story rather than overpowering it.
The ending felt perfect in its restraint. Ilys returning to hide Hanna and kill the King, her torture and death, and Death waiting for her at the Veil was tragic and inevitable. This book leans into stillness and atmosphere, but once it reaches the heart of the story, it becomes deeply tender and emotionally full.