A Juicy Journey: My Thoughts on Oathbound (The Legendborn Cycle, #3)
When I first picked up Oathbound by Tracy Deonn, my expectations were high. After devouring its predecessors, I was excited to dive back into the intricate world of Bree and her companions. Little did I know that this installment would not only meet but exceed my wildest dreams! From start to finish, I was utterly captivated—thrilled by plot twists that took my breath away and character arcs that resonated deep within my heart.
At its core, Oathbound brilliantly explores themes of grief, trauma, and how we cope with the weight of our legacies. I felt this book surpassed Bloodmarked in cohesion and emotional buildup, focusing more on individual character journeys and their relationships. Deonn delivers a memory loss trope that, despite my usual wariness of it, transforms into something deeply meaningful and powerful. Bree’s journey is both cathartic and heartfelt, and I found myself reflecting on my own experiences as I watched her grow.
The multiple POVs initially concerned me, but I was pleasantly surprised by how each character’s perspective enriched the narrative. The interactions were downright juicy, especially as characters who had never met before were thrown together, creating an engaging tension as they caught up with each other’s stories. Deonn’s self-awareness adds an extra layer of fun, poking at the complexities of her own world and weaving in fan-favorite tropes that had me giggling uncontrollably.
Comparing Oathbound to a mash-up of Emily Wilde, Six of Crows, and Teen Wolf might sound wild, but for real, it works! The high stakes paired with comic relief struck a perfect balance. I felt my heart race at the climactic moments, especially around the 78% mark, and again at that unforgettable ending. Did I predict some plot twists? Absolutely! But did they still leave me gagged? Without a doubt!
Let’s take a moment to discuss Erebus. I went on a rollercoaster of emotions regarding his character, and I can confidently say I’ll be an Erebus defender for life! His complex nature had me rooting for him, grappling with his darker traits while finding charm in his gentlemanly demeanor. I loved that Deonn kept him intricately woven into the plot without turning him into a straightforward villain.
Then there’s Sel, who surprised me with his minimal screen time. His evolving mystery left me wanting more, intensifying the tension leading up to his reunion with Bree. I loved the chaotic, unpredictable version of Selwyn that emerged here; it felt fresh and exciting, capturing my attention with every turn of the page.
As I reached that electrifying cliffhanger, my heart was racing, and I couldn’t help but cackle at the brilliance of it all. The relationships—Bree’s love with Nick, the awkward yet playful dynamic between her and Sel—are rich and layered, making me feel as though I was part of their world. Deonn’s writing truly shines through her emotional depth and character development.
Oathbound isn’t just a book; it’s a journey through laughter and tears, joy and chaos. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a blend of fantasy and emotional depth, fans of complex character dynamics, and those who embrace a good plot twist. This entry filled me not only with joy but also with anticipation for what’s next. As I close this chapter on Bree’s tale, I can’t help but feel that she—and we—are just getting started. Here’s to more chaos and more legend in the next book!
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