Oathbound By Tracy Deonn Book Review
Ever had a book grab you by the heart and just not let go? That’s exactly what Oathbound by Tracy Deonn does. It’s the third book in The Legendborn Cycle, and if you’re into fast-paced fantasy with deep emotions and complex characters, you’re in for a wild ride.
Here’s the gist without spoilers: Oathbound picks up with Bree Matthews, who’s cut herself off from the Legendborn Order and even her friends, trying to protect everyone from the heavy cost of her powers. But things spiral when she makes a binding bargain with the mysterious Shadow King, a shapeshifter caught between the demon world and secret magical societies. Meanwhile, the magical Round Table is falling apart, leaders are missing, and secrets are bubbling under the surface. With kidnappings and deaths on the rise, Bree realizes no matter how far she runs, her past, and her destiny, won’t let her go.
What really makes Oathbound stand out is how Tracy Deonn uses multiple points of view, giving us fresh insights into the characters. It’s not just Bree’s story; new faces like Zoe and deeper looks at folks like Selwyn and Alice add layers and fresh energy. Plus, Deonn’s writing is both poetic and honest, bringing Southern Black Girl Magic right into this Arthurian-inspired world. The mix of rich culture, powerful emotions, and unique fantasy really makes this series unlike anything else out there.
Readers are raving about the character growth, especially Bree’s journey from isolation to becoming this fierce, complex figure. Many fans say they were laughing, crying, and sometimes even yelling at the pages. The twists keep you guessing, and the cliffhanger ending leaves you desperate for the next book. That said, some people found the book a bit long or felt certain romantic scenes dragged, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Also, if you’re not into multiple POVs, this might feel heavy, but most say it’s worth sticking with.
From my perspective, if you love character-driven fantasy that tackles grief, trauma, and identity alongside magic and mayhem, you’ll probably find Oathbound deeply rewarding. It’s perfect for readers who want more than just a typical YA fantasy, there’s real emotional weight here. On the flip side, if you prefer straightforward plots or fast, light reads with less emotional complexity, this might feel overwhelming or slow at times.
All in all, Oathbound is a powerful next chapter in Bree’s story that pushes the whole series forward in exciting ways. If you’ve been following The Legendborn Cycle so far, you’re definitely going to want to dive in. And if you’re new, definitely start with the first book because this one leans heavily on what’s come before.
If that sounds like your kind of story, definitely check it out. And hey, let me know what you thought if you’ve read it too!