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Oathbound: A Sapphic Portal Fantasy
Bored with her lackluster life, Jules just wants one last adventure before resigning herself to the office job that awaits her. The carefully planned hiking trip crumbles apart as she’s forced through a portal to a world bursting with untapped magic and choked by rebellion.
With the portal closed, Jules is thrust into the middle of a civil war with nowhere else to turn. Grappling with the foreign magic that flows through her veins and fueled by a newfound bloodlust, returning home hardly crosses her mind. But there is one universal law of this new realm that all Otherwordly beings must be eliminated.
Can Jules keep the truth of her origins hidden as she climbs the ranks of the rebellion? The closer she gets to the rebel leader, the harder it becomes… and the more evident it is that the two worlds are more intertwined than anyone admits.
With the portal closed, Jules is thrust into the middle of a civil war with nowhere else to turn. Grappling with the foreign magic that flows through her veins and fueled by a newfound bloodlust, returning home hardly crosses her mind. But there is one universal law of this new realm that all Otherwordly beings must be eliminated.
Can Jules keep the truth of her origins hidden as she climbs the ranks of the rebellion? The closer she gets to the rebel leader, the harder it becomes… and the more evident it is that the two worlds are more intertwined than anyone admits.
484 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 8, 2024
70 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 25, 2024
4.5 Stars
The beginning was intense and then petered out a bit but because of the nature of the story (rebellion and secrecy) the anxiety was a constant thrum in the background so the reader couldn’t exactly rest and be lulled into safety. The ensuing climax was thoroughly painful to read but it does pave the way for book 2.
The beginning was intense and then petered out a bit but because of the nature of the story (rebellion and secrecy) the anxiety was a constant thrum in the background so the reader couldn’t exactly rest and be lulled into safety. The ensuing climax was thoroughly painful to read but it does pave the way for book 2.
December 26, 2025
2.5 Stars Rounded Up
I think I might have unpopular opinions about this book. The idea of regular girl falling into a portal, throwing her into another world, and giving her unimaginable powers was super cool and really caught my interest, but it turned out to be kind of flat?
The beginning starts with Jules hiking with her girlfriend of FOUR YEARS. That’s an important part, because I think that detail changed my feelings on the whole book immediately. I mean it was almost instantly when she met Aster that she started feeling things towards her.
The timeline for Jules and Aster’s relationship I just couldn’t vibe with, it felt so rushed and their feelings were unrealistically strong for the timeframe they knew eachother.
Jules’ powers was the main plot of the story, yet we really didn’t learn ANYTHING about her powers. she learned how to use them a bit better yes, but there were so many subtle things pointing towards Jules being an insanely powerful mage and no more information given.
The two MCs just didn’t feel right for each other,
I didn’t feel the connection between them other than lust yet Aster would practically throw the whole rebellion away for Jules. It just felt like there could’ve been more in this book.
I probably won’t read the next in the series, I was bummed about this one.
I think I might have unpopular opinions about this book. The idea of regular girl falling into a portal, throwing her into another world, and giving her unimaginable powers was super cool and really caught my interest, but it turned out to be kind of flat?
The beginning starts with Jules hiking with her girlfriend of FOUR YEARS. That’s an important part, because I think that detail changed my feelings on the whole book immediately. I mean it was almost instantly when she met Aster that she started feeling things towards her.
The timeline for Jules and Aster’s relationship I just couldn’t vibe with, it felt so rushed and their feelings were unrealistically strong for the timeframe they knew eachother.
Jules’ powers was the main plot of the story, yet we really didn’t learn ANYTHING about her powers. she learned how to use them a bit better yes, but there were so many subtle things pointing towards Jules being an insanely powerful mage and no more information given.
The two MCs just didn’t feel right for each other,
I didn’t feel the connection between them other than lust yet Aster would practically throw the whole rebellion away for Jules. It just felt like there could’ve been more in this book.
I probably won’t read the next in the series, I was bummed about this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2024
A fantastic fantasy novel by Hadley H. Hudson, introduces readers to a world of badass heroines, a captivating magic system, and with a dash of spice. Though it begins at a leisurely pace, once the action kicks in, it becomes an irresistible page-turner. The narrative skillfully weaves together self-discovery, rebellion, and the intricate ties between two worlds, making it a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts.
March 7, 2024
I received an ARC of this and I had the best time reading it! The fantasy world created in this book is so intriguing and the writing style is beautiful. The pacing can be a little slow at times, but it’s made up for with exciting action sequences and thrilling chases. The characters were the standout for me– they’re relatable even in the fantasy situations they’re in and I loved seeing how their stories developed. I especially connected with Jules, who is facing fears of settling down into a 9-5 job before she finds herself in a new and magical world, and even though it's filled with as much danger as adventure, she realizes she doesn’t necessarily want to go back to her old life. Oathbound is immersive and has intricate, unique worldbuilding that makes it a great fantasy read!
March 8, 2024
As a person who is getting into fantasy, I really enjoyed this book! It was a little slow at times but I still found myself not wanting to put this down. The world building and magic system were easy to follow. Oathbound contains tenacious fmcs, slight spice, an engaging (and relatable) self discovery journey, and a page turning rebellion.
This is book one in a series and I can’t wait to see where this story goes!
This is book one in a series and I can’t wait to see where this story goes!
May 16, 2024
Overall, this book is a sort of blandly enjoyable romantasy.
I wanted to love it so bad. It has all the elements for a great story for me, but it just did not come together.
I'll start with what I liked. The spicy scene between Jules and Aster was great - very hot but still in character and emotionally connected. The magic system is pretty cool (it needed fleshing out, but the basic concept is neat). The heist scene in the library was genuinely well-written and thrilling (I literally gasped when Arlin fell). The side characters are enjoyable; John especially is a highlight.
Here's what didn't work so well for me. First of all, there are quite a few grammar errors - at least a dozen obvious ones. I'm really not how they were missed in the editting process.
Second, the sense of time in this book is not clear. Jules' first day in the rebellion seemed to last about 36 hours and she was supposedly was with them for a month, when it read like only a week or so.
Third, Aster just isn't well written. I really didn't feel like I got a sense for her personality until maybe 70% through the book, besides her being vaguely charming. Also, she's supposed to be a rebel leader but we don't ever get to see her do any rebel leading? The characters kept harping on how important she was to the cause, but she literally did nothing. It's just a shame, because the vague characterization of Aster really prevented me from enjoying the romance accept of the story.
Fourth, the plot is just... Well, it needed work. So much happens to literally goes nowhere. Nothing at all is resolved. I get that there will be a sequel, but come on.... The farmers' deaths at the beginning have no greater impact. The sword and book they went to great lengths to steal are never touched or used and the bad guys apparently didn't care they were taken. Baddie Cassius is not dealt with nor even confronted in the climax. Jules is a Fomoir, but Aster never finds out and it doesn't impact the rebellion or their relationships in any meaningful way. The riot at the start has no impact on the rebellion or bad guys. By the end of the book, it all feels like a huge waste of time.
Finally, besides the two main characters, there's only one female character with dialogue in the rebellion, Vivian, and she disappears after her day the clinic. That just irked me, personally.
REGARDLESS of all that, if you're looking for a portal fantasy with a sapphic romance, this fits the bill. Despite its flaws, it's readable and a semi-enjoyable way to pass the time.
I wanted to love it so bad. It has all the elements for a great story for me, but it just did not come together.
I'll start with what I liked. The spicy scene between Jules and Aster was great - very hot but still in character and emotionally connected. The magic system is pretty cool (it needed fleshing out, but the basic concept is neat). The heist scene in the library was genuinely well-written and thrilling (I literally gasped when Arlin fell). The side characters are enjoyable; John especially is a highlight.
Here's what didn't work so well for me. First of all, there are quite a few grammar errors - at least a dozen obvious ones. I'm really not how they were missed in the editting process.
Second, the sense of time in this book is not clear. Jules' first day in the rebellion seemed to last about 36 hours and she was supposedly was with them for a month, when it read like only a week or so.
Third, Aster just isn't well written. I really didn't feel like I got a sense for her personality until maybe 70% through the book, besides her being vaguely charming. Also, she's supposed to be a rebel leader but we don't ever get to see her do any rebel leading? The characters kept harping on how important she was to the cause, but she literally did nothing. It's just a shame, because the vague characterization of Aster really prevented me from enjoying the romance accept of the story.
Fourth, the plot is just... Well, it needed work. So much happens to literally goes nowhere. Nothing at all is resolved. I get that there will be a sequel, but come on.... The farmers' deaths at the beginning have no greater impact. The sword and book they went to great lengths to steal are never touched or used and the bad guys apparently didn't care they were taken. Baddie Cassius is not dealt with nor even confronted in the climax. Jules is a Fomoir, but Aster never finds out and it doesn't impact the rebellion or their relationships in any meaningful way. The riot at the start has no impact on the rebellion or bad guys. By the end of the book, it all feels like a huge waste of time.
Finally, besides the two main characters, there's only one female character with dialogue in the rebellion, Vivian, and she disappears after her day the clinic. That just irked me, personally.
REGARDLESS of all that, if you're looking for a portal fantasy with a sapphic romance, this fits the bill. Despite its flaws, it's readable and a semi-enjoyable way to pass the time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2024
I just recently started getting into fantasy and this was such a good book to read. I’m a sucker for sapphic romances and I think this book really built out the romance as well as kept the rest of the story line action filled. I do think the beginning was slow, but once more started to happen I had a hard time putting it down.
May 23, 2024
This started out really strong with one of my long term fantasies which is accidentally crossing into a portal into another realm 😂
I really didn't feel the chemistry between the two main leads! I felt like the flirting was good at first but it never hit the next level for me.
I really didn't feel the chemistry between the two main leads! I felt like the flirting was good at first but it never hit the next level for me.
July 26, 2024
loved it
I Couldn’t put the book away! Perfect amount of everything! Loved the characters. I am Looking forward to the next release.
I Couldn’t put the book away! Perfect amount of everything! Loved the characters. I am Looking forward to the next release.
March 2, 2024
I just finished my ARC of this book and it was awesome!
Great fantasy, bad ass ladies, very cool magic system and some mild spice. It started off kind of slow but once the action really started it was so hard to put down!
Great fantasy, bad ass ladies, very cool magic system and some mild spice. It started off kind of slow but once the action really started it was so hard to put down!
April 22, 2024
Thank you to Hadley H. Hudson for sending me an ARC to review.
⭐ 3.75/5 rounded up
🌶️ 1.5/5 (one explicit scene, some steamy scenes and a lot of banter!)
Oathbound is a portal fantasy that follows our main character, Jules, on an adventure through love and rebellion in a world full of magic. This is a wonderful debut novel and a captivating start to what I can already tell is going to be a great sapphic romantasy series!
Hudson's talent really shines in her effortless and captivating world building. We stumble into this world as clueless as Jules and get watch this wonderful world unfold with her. I appreciate how real the settings feel. The wilds feel mystical and the farmlands quaint and cozy, while the city is realistically gritty and grimy.
The cast of characters are fun and easy to like. John is probably my favorite, followed by grumpy Denvere.
The pacing of the story starts out great. We're thrust into a world of mystery, danger and adventure. I couldn't put it down! However, and this is where my main criticism is, I feel the story lost a bit of steam somewhere in the middle. I lost the thread of the plot and felt like I was floating through a story not really knowing where it was going. However, that momentum does pick back up and the story becomes addicting once again.
By the end of the book, we're left with questions to be answered and more adventure to unfold. But don't worry, it's not a cliffhanger! It's just enough that I'm invested and excited for the rest of the story!
⭐ 3.75/5 rounded up
🌶️ 1.5/5 (one explicit scene, some steamy scenes and a lot of banter!)
Oathbound is a portal fantasy that follows our main character, Jules, on an adventure through love and rebellion in a world full of magic. This is a wonderful debut novel and a captivating start to what I can already tell is going to be a great sapphic romantasy series!
Hudson's talent really shines in her effortless and captivating world building. We stumble into this world as clueless as Jules and get watch this wonderful world unfold with her. I appreciate how real the settings feel. The wilds feel mystical and the farmlands quaint and cozy, while the city is realistically gritty and grimy.
The cast of characters are fun and easy to like. John is probably my favorite, followed by grumpy Denvere.
The pacing of the story starts out great. We're thrust into a world of mystery, danger and adventure. I couldn't put it down! However, and this is where my main criticism is, I feel the story lost a bit of steam somewhere in the middle. I lost the thread of the plot and felt like I was floating through a story not really knowing where it was going. However, that momentum does pick back up and the story becomes addicting once again.
By the end of the book, we're left with questions to be answered and more adventure to unfold. But don't worry, it's not a cliffhanger! It's just enough that I'm invested and excited for the rest of the story!
March 14, 2024
Dive into a mesmerizing fantasy world where the lines between reality and imagination blur, in "Oathbound" by Hadley H. Hudson. From the very first page, I was transported into a realm where magic and destiny intertwine, leaving me spellbound until the very end.
The allure of this book lies not only in its enchanting fantasy setting but also in Hudson's exquisite writing style. Each sentence is crafted with precision, painting vivid images that immerse readers in the world of Tairne. The author's ability to weave together intricate details and captivating prose ensures that readers are captivated from start to finish.
However, what truly sets "Oathbound" apart are its compelling characters. Despite the fantastical situations they find themselves in, the characters remain relatable and human, it drew me into their journeys of self-discovery and rebellion. Watching their stories unfold is a deeply satisfying experience, as Hudson masterfully develops their arcs with depth and nuance.
Moreover, the narrative effortlessly intertwines themes of self-discovery, rebellion, and the ties that bind two worlds together. As the plot unfolded, I was taken on a thrilling adventure filled with action, intrigue, and unexpected twists. The pacing is relentless and left me craving more with each turn of the page.
In "Oathbound," Hudson has crafted a truly addictive tale that lingers in the mind long after the final chapter. The characters feel like old friends, and the richly imagined world of Tairne beckons to lose yourself within its pages time and time again. With its seamless blend of action, adventure, and heartfelt emotion, this book is a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts everywhere.
In conclusion, "Oathbound" is a triumph of fantasy storytelling, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Prepare to be swept away on an unforgettable journey that will leave you longing for more. Step into the world of Tairne and join the ranks of the Oathbound—you won't regret it.
✨Book was given to me as a Gift from the Author✨
The allure of this book lies not only in its enchanting fantasy setting but also in Hudson's exquisite writing style. Each sentence is crafted with precision, painting vivid images that immerse readers in the world of Tairne. The author's ability to weave together intricate details and captivating prose ensures that readers are captivated from start to finish.
However, what truly sets "Oathbound" apart are its compelling characters. Despite the fantastical situations they find themselves in, the characters remain relatable and human, it drew me into their journeys of self-discovery and rebellion. Watching their stories unfold is a deeply satisfying experience, as Hudson masterfully develops their arcs with depth and nuance.
Moreover, the narrative effortlessly intertwines themes of self-discovery, rebellion, and the ties that bind two worlds together. As the plot unfolded, I was taken on a thrilling adventure filled with action, intrigue, and unexpected twists. The pacing is relentless and left me craving more with each turn of the page.
In "Oathbound," Hudson has crafted a truly addictive tale that lingers in the mind long after the final chapter. The characters feel like old friends, and the richly imagined world of Tairne beckons to lose yourself within its pages time and time again. With its seamless blend of action, adventure, and heartfelt emotion, this book is a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts everywhere.
In conclusion, "Oathbound" is a triumph of fantasy storytelling, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Prepare to be swept away on an unforgettable journey that will leave you longing for more. Step into the world of Tairne and join the ranks of the Oathbound—you won't regret it.
✨Book was given to me as a Gift from the Author✨
February 23, 2025
I give four stars reluctantly as this book was incredible story wise but an editor was desperately needed. Most issues I have with the book would have been easily fixed if an editor looked at the grammar and formatting with a second pair of eyes.
✨The gradual relationship building between all the characters in this is beautiful.
✨I love all the characters so much!
✨John is a such a loveable side character
✨ Jules and Aster are adorable
✨A fun air of mystery
✨Heist, heist, heist!!!
✨The plot twists
✨Great ending, leaves you wanting more
🪄Lots of typos (needed better editing, this book would genuinely be amazing if it had an editor.)
🪄Unlikeable moments from the protagonist at the start of the book. Having her be worried about her former (at the time current) partner in one chapter and then the next being fine with not going back to her and their home read weird. Especially when she mentions worrying about said partner being dead. Her also having friends and family that she cares about in the other world and being happy abandoning them makes her unlikeable. She’s a queer character and the author could’ve rooted her back story in queer experiences: like being disowned by her family for being queer, and only having her partner, that she’s going to break up with. I think she could’ve done something more interesting and educational with this character rather than “oh my life is perfect but I’m bored.” It would also have fed into the found family trope more nicely.
🪄Around 300 pages in we suddenly have a new pov. We needed something formatting wise like the name of the character at the top of the page as it really comes out of nowhere. Also if we’re doing dual pov’s we need to get Asters pov sooner for it to flow more naturally in the books structure. There were times when the pov switched mid chapter that was confusing as well.
🪄The passing of time was a little confusing, I’m unsure how long Jules was in the new world for.
✨The gradual relationship building between all the characters in this is beautiful.
✨I love all the characters so much!
✨John is a such a loveable side character
✨ Jules and Aster are adorable
✨A fun air of mystery
✨Heist, heist, heist!!!
✨The plot twists
✨Great ending, leaves you wanting more
🪄Lots of typos (needed better editing, this book would genuinely be amazing if it had an editor.)
🪄Unlikeable moments from the protagonist at the start of the book. Having her be worried about her former (at the time current) partner in one chapter and then the next being fine with not going back to her and their home read weird. Especially when she mentions worrying about said partner being dead. Her also having friends and family that she cares about in the other world and being happy abandoning them makes her unlikeable. She’s a queer character and the author could’ve rooted her back story in queer experiences: like being disowned by her family for being queer, and only having her partner, that she’s going to break up with. I think she could’ve done something more interesting and educational with this character rather than “oh my life is perfect but I’m bored.” It would also have fed into the found family trope more nicely.
🪄Around 300 pages in we suddenly have a new pov. We needed something formatting wise like the name of the character at the top of the page as it really comes out of nowhere. Also if we’re doing dual pov’s we need to get Asters pov sooner for it to flow more naturally in the books structure. There were times when the pov switched mid chapter that was confusing as well.
🪄The passing of time was a little confusing, I’m unsure how long Jules was in the new world for.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2024
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Oathbound by Hadley Hudson is a wonderful debut novel for the author. It starts out with Jules going on one last trip before (almost begrudgingly) settling down in a steady 9-5 in a boring new city with her long time girlfriend. While hiking the Appalachian trail she gets attacked by a bear and ends up falling through a portal by accident while trying to escape. She falls into a world in upheaval, rebellion and magic.
This fantasy book features strong Female leads, found family, magic, sapphic romance, adventure, self discovery, and characters that feel like family.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to see what happens since it ends on a slight but not truly dramatic cliff hanger. Over all 4.5/5 ⭐️
Oathbound by Hadley Hudson is a wonderful debut novel for the author. It starts out with Jules going on one last trip before (almost begrudgingly) settling down in a steady 9-5 in a boring new city with her long time girlfriend. While hiking the Appalachian trail she gets attacked by a bear and ends up falling through a portal by accident while trying to escape. She falls into a world in upheaval, rebellion and magic.
This fantasy book features strong Female leads, found family, magic, sapphic romance, adventure, self discovery, and characters that feel like family.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to see what happens since it ends on a slight but not truly dramatic cliff hanger. Over all 4.5/5 ⭐️
April 8, 2025
I’d give this a 3.5 if I could. I really liked the story and am looking forward to book two. One issue I had with this book is the lack of editing, this needed a couple more read throughs to catch the tense mis-matches and the missing “s” to create plurals. It wasn’t terrible but it did catch me off guard and make me stumble in the story sometimes. I wish we had a little more chemistry building between the two mains but I still liked them. Hopefully book 2 starts filling in some questions I still have.
August 4, 2024
If you want to read a book that hooks you in instantly with action, mystery, and adrenaline and fear. This is the book for you. The details are astounding. I enjoyed the witty comebacks and humor between the characters. I couldn't put the book down, honestly. This book was all I could think about for the two days I read it. Anytime I had to stop and do boring adult things, I was thinking of this book and its characters. I even shed a few tears in a few spots.
September 16, 2024
This was a unique and interesting story of magic portal fantasy.
I had a fun time reading about the magic systems and really liked the character development.
That being said, this was *almost* a five star read for me, but there were a few plot-related things I don't want to go into detail here about for fear of ruining it for everyone that just didn't quite make sense to me.
Overall, very enjoyable.
I had a fun time reading about the magic systems and really liked the character development.
That being said, this was *almost* a five star read for me, but there were a few plot-related things I don't want to go into detail here about for fear of ruining it for everyone that just didn't quite make sense to me.
Overall, very enjoyable.
March 11, 2024
This book was highly addicting. The characters felt familiar and I found myself loving a piece of every one of them! It was full of action that kept me guessing and craving more. I wish I could step into Tairne and be a part of it. I definitely can see myself re-reading in the future. Highly recommend! 💜
April 8, 2024
amazing story
This is an amazing story that is just beginning and I can’t wait for book 2.
I hope Julia will tell aster the truth soon and I also hope for the rebellion to succeed.
This is an amazing story that is just beginning and I can’t wait for book 2.
I hope Julia will tell aster the truth soon and I also hope for the rebellion to succeed.
April 30, 2024
So so good! Can’t believe this is the author’s first book. While there were two or three errors I saw, it didn’t matter. The story is amazing! I can’t wait to see what happens next. Side note: I love that Jules was hiking the Appalachian trail. Scary and strange things happen there lol
October 13, 2024
The characters were flat and the book was a bit stagnant in my opinion. A lot of things were said and done but nothing really progressed. Also, the romance between Aster and Jules moved unbelievably quick and i didn't like it one bit.
The writing was at least decent.
The writing was at least decent.
December 23, 2024
Sneaky good
It wasn’t until the end that I realized how hooked I was by this book. Certainly hope book two is not long off, as this one ends sweetly but abruptly too. Worth the read for sure.
It wasn’t until the end that I realized how hooked I was by this book. Certainly hope book two is not long off, as this one ends sweetly but abruptly too. Worth the read for sure.
April 20, 2024
Portals
Oh this is an interesting prologue to a long story i hope and yes I did enjoy it a lot
Oh this is an interesting prologue to a long story i hope and yes I did enjoy it a lot
April 26, 2024
Loved this story! Can't wait for the next one!
April 28, 2024
Great book!
I just hope there's more after this! There are so many questions left unanswered! It's a great story tha t I hope continues for a long time!
I just hope there's more after this! There are so many questions left unanswered! It's a great story tha t I hope continues for a long time!
September 4, 2024
DNF- I don’t know if I was getting into a reading slump or this caused it but either way I couldn’t finish it at all. Not interested
September 7, 2024
Omfg
This was actually so amazing. I don’t even have words. I was hooked from the start and I can’t wait for the next book to come out!
This was actually so amazing. I don’t even have words. I was hooked from the start and I can’t wait for the next book to come out!
September 29, 2024
3.5 rounded down
January 14, 2025
Had fun
I really enjoyed this book, your writing styles is something to be enjoyed. Cannot wait to read the next book. Thank you.
I really enjoyed this book, your writing styles is something to be enjoyed. Cannot wait to read the next book. Thank you.
July 28, 2025
This one is such a cool and unique concept. Very excited for the next book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews