Ruled by Fate, authored by Sam Withrow, is a compelling dive into the boundless territories of science fiction intertwined with threads of romance and existential quandaries. The story centers around the protagonist, Evelyn Carter, a theoretical physicist whose mundane existence is catapulted into an extraordinary journey of fate, love, and time manipulation. Withrow's blend of intricate scientific theories and heartfelt human emotions makes this a decidedly gripping read, one that stretches the boundaries of typical sci-fi tropes.

The novel begins on a deceptively simple note, with Evelyn immersed in her routine life, overshadowed by the recent demise of her fiancé. However, the plot quickly escalates when she stumbles upon a mysterious artifact buried within her late fiancé's belongings—a device capable of manipulating the probabilities of quantum events. It is this discovery that propels the novel into the fantastic, weaving a narrative that questions the very fabric of reality and the possible interferences of fate.

What sets Ruled by Fate apart is Withrow's adept ability to humanize complex scientific ideas. The concept of quantum mechanics serves not just as a backdrop but as a catalyst for the unfolding events, influencing Evelyn’s philosophical and ethical confrontations with destiny. The texture of the narrative is rich with dilemmas about control versus surrender to the enigmatic forces of the universe, making readers ponder along with Evelyn on the nature of control we have over our lives.

Withrow’s characters are meticulously developed, with each one adding a layer of complexity to the story. Apart from Evelyn, who is portrayed with depth and vulnerability, other characters like Michael, Evelyn’s colleague, and Sarah, her sister, play pivotal roles in the evolution of the plot. Their interactions with Evelyn provide a canvas to explore themes of grief, hope, and reconciliation. The dialogues, crisp and laden with meaning, further excavate the emotional and philosophical undertones of the story.

The romance element of Ruled by Fate is gracefully handled, weaving seamlessly into the primary storyline without overshadowing the novel's philosophical and scientific essence. Evelyn’s journey through her past relationships, culminating in a poignant realization about love and timing, is narrated with finesse and sensitivity. This subplot not only enhances the emotional grip of the narrative but also serves as a crucial pivot in the protagonist’s transformation.

One cannot review this book without applauding the ambitious scope of its plot. Withrow crafts a labyrinth of subplots involving time paradoxes, alternative realities, and cosmic coincidences that are audacious yet convincingly portrayed. The thrill of unraveling these mysteries alongside the beautifully flawed characters keeps the pages turning. However, it’s the climactic convergence of these threads that merits particular mention—masterfully executed, it leaves a lasting impact on the reader, both intellectually and emotionally.

The prose of Ruled by Fate is another highlight. Withrow’s language walks a fine line between poetic descriptiveness and scientific precision. His ability to describe complex scientific experiments in an accessible and engaging manner is commendable, ensuring that the narrative is never bogged down by its own conceptual weight. Furthermore, the visual descriptions of settings—from the serene landscapes of Evelyn’s hometown to the chaotic energy of the laboratory—are vivid, adding an immersive quality to the storytelling.

However, the book is not without its minor flaws. At points, the pacing seems uneven, particularly in the middle sections where the intertwining of multiple plot lines occasionally feels overwhelming. Readers new to science fiction or those not deeply versed in theoretical physics might find certain passages demanding. Yet, these are but small blemishes on what is otherwise a magnificent tapestry of storytelling.

In conclusion, Ruled by Fate by Sam Withrow is a tour de force in the genre of science fiction. It successfully marries the complexities of quantum physics with the universal search for meaning and connection. This novel is not just an exploration of scientific possibilities but also a deep, resonant examination of the human condition. Readers looking for a story that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally engaging will find this book to be a captivating read.