paused this fantasy romance-- isn't hitting the spot for me atm

I'm a sucker for a royal/noble figure and their oath-sworn protector falling in love, especially if there is a heavy dose of mutual pining, and this book delivered. Both main characters were interesting and multifaceted. The plot and layers of castle intrigue were solid. It never felt like the author was doing a convoluted romance plot just for the sake of keeping them apart. Their reasons for not getting together immediately were clear and understandable, as were their reasons for finally getting together. The mutual pining was probably the best part of the love story. This is a slow burn with lots of lingering gazes and mournful nostalgia. Making the main characters exes was a great choice because it makes every interaction they have early in the book more fraught. The early tension between Balen's thirst and his wariness of trusting Zav again was truly delightful. My only gripe is that I still have so many worldbuilding questions! I know, it's a romantasy book, so the lore and worldbuilding isn't nearly as important as the love story. But I can't help it. I want to know more. There is a second book set in this world and I'll definitely pick that up too because there was enough meat on the bones to make me want to keep gnawing at it. Overall, a solid fantasy love story with fun tropes and a satisfying plot. It was a fun easy read and I'd happily recommend it.