Book Review: Oathbound (The Legendborn Cycle, #3) by Tracy Deonn
From the moment I cracked open "Oathbound," I felt like I was diving back into a world that had swiftly captured my heart. Tracy Deonn has a way of weaving rich narratives that grip you tightly, and in this third installment of The Legendborn Cycle, she outdoes herself. This book is not just a continuation; it’s a deliciously wicked thrill ride that undeniably stands out as my favorite entry so far.
What struck me most was the emotional depth of Bree’s journey, layered with a smartly executed memory loss trope. Typically, I’m not a fan of this device, but Deonn transformed it into something profoundly meaningful. Bree’s arc is both cathartic and heartfelt, making her struggle and triumph resonate deeply. This edition feels more cohesive than Bloodmarked—a track that showcases a stronger character focus while diving headfirst into themes like grief, trauma, and the various ways we cope with our demons. Deonn gracefully elaborates on these themes, showing us the many shades of pain and healing.
I was initially apprehensive about the multiple POVs—would it muddy the waters? Yet, I found each character’s perspective invigorating and essential to the plot’s progression. It added a richness to the narrative, allowing us to witness how each character stepped up in Bree’s absence. The interactions were juicy and full of tension, especially as new alliances formed, pulling together characters who previously existed in different spheres. Watching them catch up with the chaotic world we’ve become familiar with was genuinely entertaining.
And can we talk about the humor? Amidst the high stakes and intense emotional threads, there were moments that had me in stitches. It’s a testament to Deonn’s skill that she balances these different tones so effectively. The self-awareness in her writing is refreshing—there’s a sense that she understands how complex and layered her universe has become, and she embraces it with a wink.
The twists? Goodness, my heart raced at the 78% mark, and I was still gasping at the end. The revelations were unexpected yet satisfying—a combination that left me thoroughly gagged.
Now, let’s discuss characters. I have to stand up for Erebus—I don’t buy into the perception of him as purely evil. Sure, he’s dark and dangerous, but this installment reveals a more nuanced side to him. His character is layered with humor and relatability, qualities that made me root for him even harder as I prayed he wouldn’t become a major villain.
On another note, Sel’s almost ghostly absence was surprising; I would’ve loved to see more of him throughout the book, but his limited screen time only added to his aura of mystery. When he finally reunited with Bree, the anticipation was electric. It was chaos personified, and I was here for every second.
Nick truly shone in this installment. His love for Bree and the way their relationship deepened struck an emotional chord with me. The fake engagement and “one bed” tropes were deliciously executed, showcasing the range of their bond. Amid the ever-growing tension surrounding Bree, Nick’s presence grounded the tumult, providing a sweet balance.
"Oathbound" is nothing short of a rollercoaster, offering thrills, laughs, and poignant moments wrapped in a marriage of adventure and character development. Fans of urban fantasy, character-driven narratives, and those who revel in complex interpersonal dynamics will find a home in these pages.
Tracy Deonn has crafted an unforgettable journey that leaves you clamoring for more. As I closed the book, I couldn’t help but feel a bittersweet mix of excitement and longing—my heart is firmly entrenched in this world, and I am anxiously awaiting the next installment. Are you ready to tackle the chaos that awaits? Because I sure am!
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