Blood Oath (Storm Breaker Book 1)

Kayla Cunningham’s Blood Oath, the first book in the Storm Breaker series, is a gripping fantasy adventure that seamlessly blends magic, peril, and prophecy to create a richly detailed otherworldly setting. From the outset, the story presents the brutal and troubling reality of Allyria Pilar’s life. Having survived years of imprisonment due to her ability with magic, Allyria suddenly finds herself bound by an inescapable blood oath to the enigmatic Death Dealer. But freedom, as she soon learns, is never really free.

Blood Oath is distinguished by its truly immersive world-building. Allyria’s story is steeped in history and the landscapes she traverses are vividly described. What’s more, the book balances action with lore, meaning there is never a dull moment. The tension surrounding the suppression of magic adds an additional layer of intrigue, making the stakes feel all the higher. The suggestion of the rise and fall of magic in the land brings the danger of being a magic practitioner to the fore and highlights Allyria’s bravery and persistence in mastering the craft.

Allyria’s conflicted relationship with the Death Dealer is another highlight of the novel. Their dynamic is fraught with tension due to their enforced partnership, deep-seated mistrust, and burgeoning allure as they navigate a world filled with betrayals and power struggles. The Death Dealer is just as intriguing as Allyria. As his past is shrouded in mystery and his real motivations remain unclear, his intensions regarding Allyria are difficult to pin down, although some of his true character is seemingly revealed as their quest progresses.

Through its thrilling combat scenes and neatly realized character development, Blood Oath explores the weighty themes of power, sacrifice, and loyalty. Cunningham doesn’t shy away from the darker elements of the story here, depicting the harsh reality of Allyria’s life in the prison and her interactions with preternatural creatures, as well as the battles and betrayals she subsequently faces, with aplomb. These difficult elements form the story’s emotional core, reflecting the brutal experience of life in a complex world rather than offering a fairy-tale version of a fantasy story.

Despite this realism, the magic system in Blood Oath is fascinating, as are the history and practice of the Elder Tournaments. Rather than being an abundant force that is accessible to all, magic is something to be feared, having nearly been lost to time in Redbone. The idea that power still lingers in certain individuals other than Allyria—as both a gift and a curse—adds an element of unpredictability to the story. Moreover, Cunningham ensures that magic never becomes a mere plot device but rather serves as a deeply integrated aspect of the world and its conflicts.

With its fast-paced narrative, atmospheric setting, and compelling characters, Blood Oath is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy. It strikes the perfect balance between action, intrigue, and emotional depth, making it a compelling and thought-provoking story. And with this first book being such a strong opening to the series, it’s impossible not to wonder what will come next.

Available in:
ebook: $4.99
https://a.co/d/gnHK17H

paperback: $22.99
https://a.co/d/iGYZuwV