"If I fail her... I'll welcome the torment. It would be no less than I deserve"

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

It’s been a while since I’ve read a YA Fantasy novel that captivated me like Blood Oath did. From the very first page, I was hooked, completely drawn into the story. Kayla Cunningham’s world-building is nothing short of exceptional. Her vivid descriptions brought the setting to life in such a way that I could easily envision myself in the world she created. Whether I was in the dark, oppressive prison, anxiously awaiting what would happen next, or navigating the mountains to reach the river with its healing powers, I truly felt immersed in the story.

One of the standout aspects of this book is the character development, particularly of the FMC, Allyria. Watching her evolve through numerous challenges and struggles was both emotional and inspiring. Despite the hardships she faced, Allyria found the strength to persevere and ultimately emerge stronger. Her journey of self-discovery and the quest for her purpose was a highlight, and I can’t wait to see how she continues to grow in the next installments of the series.

The storyline and plot of Blood Oath were equally impressive. The book does an excellent job of establishing a strong foundation for the rest of the series, providing just enough information to intrigue without overwhelming the reader. I especially appreciate how the author skillfully keeps certain details hidden, leaving just enough mystery to keep the tension high and our curiosity piqued. The balance between revealing enough to satisfy while keeping us guessing was spot on.

There’s no doubt in my mind that I’ll be continuing this series—how could I not? I’m absolutely invested in Allyria’s journey and, of course, I need to know more about the mysterious Elders Tournament and what’s to come next. The anticipation is real, and I’m eagerly awaiting the next book to uncover the twists and turns awaiting Allyria and the world she’s navigating.

First......thank you for the arc. SECOND....THANK YOU FOR THE ARC. This story is so good that I wasn't ready for the ending of Book One and I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE HOW THIS SERIES UNFOLDS. The story pulls you in and doesn't let go!!!! I must have a physical copy and I will be impatiently waiting for the next installment!! Honestly, the only complaint I have is that the book had to end. I did now and was not ready for it to end.

Blood Oath is a story that, regrettably, didn’t resonate with me. While it has its strengths, such as consistent genre-appropriate writing and likable characters, I found it difficult to fully immerse myself due to certain aspects that felt overly familiar with other books.

The plot, while competently crafted, leaned heavily on tropes and elements reminiscent of popular romantasy books, which diminished its ability to stand out in this genre. Because of this, the storyline felt somewhat predictable and dragging throughout. I’d hoped for a fresh and unique twist to keep me engaged.

The characters are easy to root for, and fans of the genre may find comfort in their archetypal qualities. However, I wished for personalities that would break away from convention and offer something more distinct—an opportunity for them to truly shine and leave a lasting impression.

While my overall enjoyment was overshadowed by the book's similarities to others, I can appreciate the dedication behind its creation. It may still appeal to readers seeking a familiar experience.

Rating-
1/5 stars

Genre-
Fantasy

Age Rating For It-
15+ because there is a good amount of violence and other themes, and also the tiniest bit of romance that is both super slow burn and somehow rushed at the same time.

Tropes-
“Slow burn” (supposedly)
Enemies to lovers
Blood oaths (aka a bargain)
Prisoner in an awful prison
Prep for trials
Unknown heritage
Unknown power

Song to Represent this Book-
This whole book just gave off brand Luminary
by Joel sunny

Notes and Highlights-

“Welcome to Obsidian”
Or should I say welcome to the night court? Which would fit better, the real quote or the off brand one?

“Until next time, lil’ mouse”
*sigh* Need I say more…

“‘You can’t leave us,’ he said softly, his hands clasped before him as if in a prayer. ‘You can’t leave me.’”
It’s giving third act breakup that never actually happened in the first place

“‘I said not now!’ he yelled.”
Aw, yes because we love to be mean to our best and closest friends that did nothing whatsoever…

“I am Allyria Pilar, and I will not be afraid”
Hmm, where have I heard this before?
Oh, yea Throne of fricken Glass

“Thank you,’ she suddenly spoke.
‘For what?’
‘You finally gave me a direct answer.’”
You mean, thank you for giving me a fricken story.
That was no real answer, that was a fairytale.

“That’s not what’s important not yet.”
Aw, yes, another “direct answer”


Usually this’ll stay “Thoughts/would I recommend this?” but not today because today all there is to talk about is my hatred for this-
This entire book took the amazement that is Sarah J Maas and attempted to copy it, and failed miserably. The fmc was just giving pick me girl most of the book and also clueless and dumb all at the same fricken time. I was honestly having to search for something in this book I actually liked, and the one thing I found was that I liked the wolf the fmc had. The wolf was the best character in this all, like how can someone make an animal the best living thing in the book and the only reason the book gets a one-star review. The wolf was just so cute and protective and everything I wish was in an actual character, but instead it was in a fricken animal… Like please when you want to write your own book write your very own book, don’t just copy someone else in an off brand version of tog or acotar combined. It’s almost like you're trying to hitchhike on the success that is Sarah J Maas, like I get it. There are a lot of books nowadays that are similar, but this one was definitely not as successful as some of the rest of them. This book just had so, so much potential, and it took it, threw it into a dumpster and lit it on fire and just watched it burn. I honestly did not want to just bash on this book the whole review, but I just think this book needs to be edited and made unique so it’s not a bad version of some of the best high fantasy books ever, acotar, and tog. It was almost like she wanted to make the book have a bunch of the best tropes like slow burn and then switched it to the opposite at the last second and made the entire book feel rushed. All in all, l would undoubtedly not recommend or recommend anyone even consider reading this, sadly.

(Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)

DNFed at 70% buuuuut stay with me - just because this book isn't for me right now, it doesn't mean it can't be for you!

This book follows our FMC Allyria who lives in a world where magic is banned and Allyria has been imprisoned since she was 13. After a revolutionary incident, where Allyria helps a witch from being burnt at the stake, she must call in her deal with the Death Dealer. Little does Allyria know that she is embarking on a life changing adventure where she must take part in the barbaric Elder Tournaments to become the Death Dealer's heir. Throughout the book, we see that it is not just as straight forward as that and things are not exactly as they seem.

You will enjoy if you love books with
- multiple POVs
- multiple subplots happening throughout a huge world
- a mix of magically characters
- trials and tournaments

This could definitely be your next big series to sink your teeth into!
Thank you for letting me read this as an eArc!

A very solid 3 star read for me. The story has a lot of action, and minimal spice. The action is a bit predictable, and the world building seemed a bit excessive for the amount that was used. Girl in prison, girl out of prison by making a deal to train, training, more training, battle scene. It's missing more of the backstory of what happens in the tournament that has been referenced since the beginning of the book - I guess that's in book 2. I also felt like the characters was a bit two dimensional - each was unique, but whoever was good was good, and we really didn't get much insight into any of the "bad" characters, so it was easy not to feel much if they got killed off.
Lots of potential here, just missed the mark on a couple components to be a 4+ star read for me.

"Blood Oath" is a mesmerizing 5-star read that captivates from the very first page. This book masterfully blends a wide range of tropes and elements, making it the epitome of a perfect fantasy novel. Every time I put it down, I found myself thinking about it incessantly, as if it had a hold on me.

The story’s focal point, our fearless female main character (FMC), has endured a lifetime of struggles and abuse. Yet, she refuses to let these experiences tarnish the goodness in her heart. Instead, she channels her past to help others, demonstrating immense strength and compassion. This journey of resilience and kindness is both inspiring and heartwarming.

The characters are richly developed, and the relationships and friendships portrayed are beautifully authentic, evoking a profound sense of found family. Allyria's journey to discovering her strength and purpose is truly remarkable, filled with twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. The multiple points of view add depth and complexity, making the story even more engaging. "Blood Oath" is a must-read for any fantasy lover, delivering an unforgettable experience.

This is my first proper review on here and I’m so happy it was for this book.

I read the description and knew immediately I wanted to read this and it did not let me down and I’m so happy I was able to read the eARC.

Blood Oath (Storm Breaker #1) has everything I love in a fantasy; found family, magical creatures, enemies to lovers (personal fave), political intrigue, elemental magic system, training camp and so much more.

Although I will say the deadly ‘elder tournament’ doesn’t actually really happen in this book (the description does say it has it) so I’m assuming it will be in the next book. I did rate it ever so slightly lower for this reason.

Regardless, this did not make it no less entertaining and I didn’t feel like I had to push myself through it which I’ve found before when it’s been a longer fantasy book.

I love when the FMC is full of rage because I feel like I can relate more (mind your business). But give me a morally grey MMC? I’ll be there anytime, any day.

I will be continuing the series to see how it all evolves as I do love the world that’s being created.

Want to say thank you to the author and NetGalley for an eARC of this book!

Wow! I wasn’t expecting such an amazing story ! Action packed , unique plot with so much packed in one story , but not overwhelming. Love the FMC ! This book has the slow burn enemies to lovers which I ate up. So many different parts of fantasy, vampires, dragons, magic, prophecies, a blood oath and so much more! This is a must read for 2025

4.25/4.5 ⭐️

Magic is outlawed, and 17-year-old Allyria is being sentenced to death for rescuing a young girl who is accused of witchcraft. About to be executed, survival is the only thing on her mind.
However, at the brutal and notorious Redvine Prison, no one escapes… until now…
But her freedom has a price, and she must pay it with a blood oath, leaving her fate in the hands of the King's most feared assassin, the Death Dealer.
This thrusts her onto a harrowing path into a vicious world on the brink of war, where every day is life or death, and everyone can’t be trusted. The stakes are high as she must overcome unbreakable curses, immortal warriors, meddling gods, powerful magic that always comes at a cost, dark secrets, and an irresistible flying death god. And in the end, “she faces a dangerous choice: embrace her destiny—or be consumed by it.”

If you like a dark romantasy with reluctant heroines that find their power and let it rage on those who hurt the ones they love, morally grey anti hero’s that heartbreakingly pine for the girl they can’t have, found family, cute and ferocious beasts, immortal warriors, meddling gods, warring kingdoms, political intrigue, forbidden magic, deadly curses, dark secrets, and lots of action? This is it, babes… You’re gonna wanna read this one.

(I did take .5-.75 because I feel like there was a lot of repetition of different sentences/things/ideas/etc in many of the chapters. That says the same thing; just worded differently and said one right after the other.
Also, in many of the synopses I saw of this book, it mentions a deadly tournament, but you’re not gonna get the actual tournament till probably book 2. So if you’re like me and were expecting it in this book, because that’s what is promised… I’m telling you, it’s not… So now you won’t have a raging meltdown like I did and make your cat that was just rotting with you in blissful peace, once again, question their life choices and silently judge you).

I REALLY enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what happens next (🤞🏻I get my deadly tournament!!).

Thank you, NetGalley, publishers, and author, for an eARC of this book!

“Some oaths are whispered in blood, others etched in the soul—both carry the weight of destiny. “

IF I COULD GIVE THIS BOOK 6 STARS I WOULD

Blood Oath by Kayla Cunningham is nothing short of enchantment bound in pages. From the very first line, I was swept into a world brimming with ancient secrets, sacred bonds, and the echo of destinies long foretold. This book now holds a treasured place among my top 10 reads of all time—a tale that has carved itself into my heart like runes etched in stone.

I was only two chapters in when I knew—this story already had my heart. The writing wrapped around me like a spell, and I didn’t hesitate for a moment before ordering the physical copy. This isn’t just a story to read—it’s one to hold, to treasure, and to return to again and again.

The writing is pure sorcery—lyrical, immersive, and dripping with magic. Each word feels deliberately woven, casting a spell that transports you deep into a realm where blood ties carry power, oaths are sacred, and shadows stir beneath the surface.

At the heart of the story lies a young warrior bound by a legacy she never asked for, thrust into a world of political intrigue, ancient rivalries, and elemental forces beyond her understanding. As alliances shift and hidden truths unravel, she must navigate a path forged in fire, sacrifice, and the strength of unexpected friendships.

And oh, the characters—I loved them all with a ferocity I didn’t see coming. Their arcs are rich and raw, each one crafted with such care that you feel their triumphs, their losses, and everything in between. The bonds of friendship are profound, the battles fierce, the grief palpable—and the slow burn romance… gods help me, it’s exquisite. A yearning that simmers beneath every glance, every brush of a hand. It’s the kind that aches in the best way.

If you’re a devotee of A Court of Thorns and Roses or long for the immersive wonder of Harry Potter, Blood Oath is your next obsession. This story feels like it was forged in starlight and shadow, crafted by a hand that understands what it means to truly feel a story.

A tale of heart, sacrifice, and ancient power—this book is a gift. I’m utterly spellbound.

3.5 stars this series is intriguing

From the beginning this book reminded me of Throne of Glass, the main character Allyria has a very similar story arc, of being imprisoned, training to be an assassin, magic. This book is slow paced but it worked, i enjoyed the change of pace and slow grow of the characters. The training is show at a slower pace than most of my recent reads and I'm here for it. It's not just the poor unqualified girl that is destined to save the world and in like 3 chapters she is magically stronger and capable.

The things i didn't like was the author uses what to me felt like to many different mythology references so it can be a little confusing. There is early mention of electricity and scanning technology and then no further mention of technology in the book so that and the rest of the book gives a sense of a medival setting. It quickly and repeatedly talks about the "Elder tournament" the main character has to compete in to proof herself and the tournament is not explained at all until we get a glimpse at the last 5% of the book and SPOILER the tournament doesn't happen in the book looks like it will take place in the next book. So that was a bit disappointing.

Includes Gods, vampires, fea, witches, dragon's, multiple POVs, slow burn romance, elemental magic female main character.

Can I start this review by saying....WOW!! What an incredible first book in a series! I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this from NetGalley-my very first ARC and WOW was this good! From page one, I was instantly hooked! The pacing was great with beautiful descriptive lush writing that instantly transported me into this world. Every detail I can picture vividly in my head as if I was there fully immersed in this story alongside these characters. This story has so many different elements and tropes that we all love to see: Dark Dystopian YA, Enemies to Lovers, strong female character role, elemental magic, bonded dragons, training camp to become a warrior/assassin amid a war, multiple POVs, gods, vampires, a slow burn romance !! I loved it all!! Not to mention, it is very atmospheric, from the start of the book we are following our FMC Allyeria who is a prisoner facing execution for saving a girl who was accused of witchcraft. You are immediately transported to this prison with Allyeria. I was instantly hooked! Can't wait for book 2!

Blood Oath is the perfect book for fantasy lovers. The story has a strong FMC named Allyria. She lives in a world where magic is punishable by death. Allyria must make a blood oath with the Death Dealer in order to survive the Redvine prison after being accused of using magic. There was a lot of world building and set up for the next book. This was my first arc book from netgalley. I am so grateful to Kayla Cunningham for giving me the opportunity to read this story.

16 year old Allyria was sentenced to the kingdoms most brutal prison, in order to even hope to survive to the end of her sentence she makes a deal with the kingdoms most ruthless assassin, the Death Dealer. If she survives, she belongs to him.

First off all I loved the premise of the book and I was genuinely excited to be chosen as an ARC reader for this. Thank you so much! The story has a lot of promise and immediately drew me in. I love stories of underdogs and growth to one's full potential.

However I ended up DNFing the book at 40% in. I was confused by a lack of or inconsistency of worldbuilding. I am unsure about the setting of the story. It's a world where magic officially is forbidden, so the prison and other rooms are described as using torches and candles for light, human soldiers are armed with swords and shields and plate armor. Yet she gets tortured with something akin to a cattle prong? And the big city uses gas lamps, yet her magical cottage has access to basic electricity and she needs the fire to stay warm? I am also confused about the god or gods? There is a four faced god, but also norse mythology. Not to mention that on her way from the prison she walks from a snow-capped mountain, into an evergreen forest into a swamp with oppressing heat in a day. We also have industrial pollution of the environment, but apparently no electricity?

The writing is inconsistent in tone, from graphic violence to light hearted, funny banter with a character who is consistently described as lethal, cold and cunning. It also makes it harder to gauge the age group this book is written for. Some of the writing suggest a younger YA audience but the graphic violence suggests a more mature age group.

But I think what my biggest reason was, that the Death Dealer, met Allyria for the first time, when she was 13 years old, at her sentencing. Which is when he felt a connection to her and offered her the blood deal, which would bind her to him. And he then decides to build her a house and keeps tabs on her. A grown man is intrigued at a 13 year old girl.

This was a decent fantasy novel that left me wanting more. Can't wait for book 2. Can't wait to know what happens next.

I can see where this book is heading and it has a lot of potential. Unfortunately for me the story dragged on and I felt like a lot of it could have been left out or explained more succinctly. I got to 50% through before deciding to DNF.
I did love the dynamic between the mfc and mmc and the trials, I am a fan of action in books, but it just wasn't for me.

🩷 Book Review 🩷
📚 Blood Oath
✒️ Kayla Cunningham
🗓 18th March 2025
💫💫💫💫

Thank you @netgalley for an eARC of this book in exchange for a honest review.

This book is addicting, it has all the tropes I love and our FMC is one of the strongest characters I have ever read.

In a world where magic is punishable by death, Allyria faces execution herself for trying to save someone else. She does the only logical thing, she swears a blood oath to the Death Dealer of Redbone. Allyria is ripped from the mines and forced to train with Cassius to earn her freedom against other fighters.

Okay, I got to about the 25% mark and honestly felt like I was reading Throne of Glass... I got concerned... I absolutely love TOG but I was worried that we had a book that was a little too close to the possible inspiration... but no body panic! This was a lot darker, like a lot daker and all the characters embraced the darkness within.

Allyria is so head strong and determined, whereas Death Dealer is a man that is both brutal and beautiful.

The world building could've used a bit of work, mainly so it was a bit more unique. I felt like it was a nice mash-up of some our favourite fantasy worlds.

It is a great start to a series and I will be continuing it.

This book was pretty good, I would definitely recommend

~This was given by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Blood oath was a nice read. The main female character that the story follows is 17 years old and has spent 3 years in prison. In this world magic is forbidden and is punishable by death. She gets controlled by a magical person who uses her to help with their escape. Causing the main female character to be beat until for days , but she stay strong not letting herself wavier. She gets pardoned by the death dealer and she must work for him or die . I don't want to say to much and give up to much of the story.
Blood oath is definitely a nice fantasy and projects a strong female character witch is hard to find in books