A review by cait_beneath_the_covers
Oath of Betrayal by Olena Nikitin

adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

*Oath of Betrayal* is a must-read! The world-building, magic, and characters are all phenomenal, and I was hooked from start to finish. Dragons, dragon riders, and a rich magic system made the story even more immersive. Vahin, the protective and loyal dragon, completely stole my heart.

Annika is a strong, complex FMC with sass, resilience, and incredible magic. Her emotional journey was gripping, and I loved how fiercely she protected those around her, despite her reluctance to be a hero. Orm, the brave, grumpy dragon-riding commander, had a perfect balance of strength and vulnerability, while Ari, the dark fae necromancer, added an intriguing and heartbreaking dynamic with his tragic backstory.

The slow-burn MMF romance was beautifully woven into the epic stakes of the plot. The chemistry between Ani, Orm, and Ari was full of banter, flirting, and tension that kept me hooked. Plus, the Slavic lore and the unique magic system of anchors and conduits felt so fresh.

If you’re looking for:

- A strong FMC in her 30s

- A golden retriever commander

- A dark, broody fae mage

- Dragons

- Slow-burn romance and epic battles

This book has it all! The cliffhanger left me desperate for book 2, and I’ll definitely be revisiting this one. Highly recommend for anyone who loves fantasy romance!