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The Last Oath
Fear Not The Shadows
Ellie Cardrew always dreamed of following in her grandfather’s footsteps and becoming a physician in the legendary city of Ismara. When a desperate act to save the life of a patient unleashes a magic she didn’t know she possessed, Ellie’s plans for her future are changed forever. Hunted by forces she cannot understand, she must learn to trust in a stranger, and herself, if she hopes to reach Ismara safely.
Jonas Marsden never expected to become a High Lord. Yet with his brother missing and his father gravely injured, the duty falls to him. As his father’s behaviour grows dangerously erratic, Jonas faces an impossible safeguard his home or uphold his oath to protect Ellie at all costs.
Haunted by their families’ secrets, and with whispers of an ancient darkness rising, Ellie and Jonas must work together to unravel the truth before shadows of the past consume them and everyone they love.
Ellie Cardrew always dreamed of following in her grandfather’s footsteps and becoming a physician in the legendary city of Ismara. When a desperate act to save the life of a patient unleashes a magic she didn’t know she possessed, Ellie’s plans for her future are changed forever. Hunted by forces she cannot understand, she must learn to trust in a stranger, and herself, if she hopes to reach Ismara safely.
Jonas Marsden never expected to become a High Lord. Yet with his brother missing and his father gravely injured, the duty falls to him. As his father’s behaviour grows dangerously erratic, Jonas faces an impossible safeguard his home or uphold his oath to protect Ellie at all costs.
Haunted by their families’ secrets, and with whispers of an ancient darkness rising, Ellie and Jonas must work together to unravel the truth before shadows of the past consume them and everyone they love.
605 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 8, 2025
About the author
Esme A. Clarke
2 books5 followersEsme Clarke has always been passionate about writing. When she was thirteen, she started scribbling vampire stories and historical romances in notebooks, until taking a break in 1999 to study Medicine in London. In 2018, she made the scary decision to hang up her stethoscope, and start writing full time. Since then, she has written the first two books of her debut series, The Shadows of Ellevor, and outlined the first drafts of the final three, as well as working on a prequel and a selection of short stories.
When not writing, you can find her exploring the castles and beaches of Wales, with her husband and two sons.
When not writing, you can find her exploring the castles and beaches of Wales, with her husband and two sons.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 18, 2025
I am soo invested in this book and cannot wait until book 2 is released! Esme's storytelling has the ability to take you on an epic adventure. While reading this, I could play the scenes in my head and feel like I was there with Ellie, Jonas, Kari, Seth, and Celia! I can't wait to find out what happens to everyone the further they get in the series. The adventure this book took me on, left me wanting more.
May 16, 2026
Proper high fantasy with rich world building
I absolutely devoured this book. I read it in a day and was completely swept up in the world of Caemar. The world building was so immersive and natural. It genuinely felt like learning the history of a real place rather than being overloaded with information, which I loved. Everything felt layered and lived in, and I never once felt confused or pulled out of the story.
Ellie was such a refreshing main character. Strong minded, loyal, stubborn at times, but still very human and grounded. I loved that she felt like an actual person rather than someone everybody constantly treated as the most special person alive. She felt believable, and I really enjoyed that balance between her softer side and her convictions.
Jonas was another standout for me. You can absolutely feel those Strider inspired vibes, and I loved the relationship between him and Ellie. The slow burn felt natural, the conversations between them actually mattered, and their bond developed in such a believable way. Nothing about the romance felt forced or rushed, which I always appreciate in a proper epic fantasy.
One of my favourite things about this book was the side characters and the friendships throughout the story. The camaraderie between everybody genuinely reminded me of parts of Lord of the Rings when the fellowship are travelling together. The banter felt natural, all of the characters felt distinct, and even the supporting cast felt fully fleshed out rather than just being there to move the plot along. I became really attached to all of them.
The pacing was also brilliant for such a fantasy heavy book. There was always something happening, but it never felt rushed, and I was constantly desperate to know what was going to happen next. I also really loved Esme A. Clark’s writing style. I could picture everything so clearly in my head and felt completely immersed the entire time.
There were definitely moments that gave me Throne of Glass vibes too, especially with the epic fantasy feel, the found family elements, and the character dynamics. If you love proper high fantasy with rich world building, strong character relationships, found family, slow burn romance, and that classic epic fantasy feel, I’d really recommend this. Easily one of my favourite reads of the year and I’m immediately starting book two.
I absolutely devoured this book. I read it in a day and was completely swept up in the world of Caemar. The world building was so immersive and natural. It genuinely felt like learning the history of a real place rather than being overloaded with information, which I loved. Everything felt layered and lived in, and I never once felt confused or pulled out of the story.
Ellie was such a refreshing main character. Strong minded, loyal, stubborn at times, but still very human and grounded. I loved that she felt like an actual person rather than someone everybody constantly treated as the most special person alive. She felt believable, and I really enjoyed that balance between her softer side and her convictions.
Jonas was another standout for me. You can absolutely feel those Strider inspired vibes, and I loved the relationship between him and Ellie. The slow burn felt natural, the conversations between them actually mattered, and their bond developed in such a believable way. Nothing about the romance felt forced or rushed, which I always appreciate in a proper epic fantasy.
One of my favourite things about this book was the side characters and the friendships throughout the story. The camaraderie between everybody genuinely reminded me of parts of Lord of the Rings when the fellowship are travelling together. The banter felt natural, all of the characters felt distinct, and even the supporting cast felt fully fleshed out rather than just being there to move the plot along. I became really attached to all of them.
The pacing was also brilliant for such a fantasy heavy book. There was always something happening, but it never felt rushed, and I was constantly desperate to know what was going to happen next. I also really loved Esme A. Clark’s writing style. I could picture everything so clearly in my head and felt completely immersed the entire time.
There were definitely moments that gave me Throne of Glass vibes too, especially with the epic fantasy feel, the found family elements, and the character dynamics. If you love proper high fantasy with rich world building, strong character relationships, found family, slow burn romance, and that classic epic fantasy feel, I’d really recommend this. Easily one of my favourite reads of the year and I’m immediately starting book two.
May 17, 2025
She awakes, Guardian. The Daughter of the Morning walks the earth once more.
A young girl dreaming of healing, a second son never meant to rule. After Ellie unexpectedly heals a high lord, events unfold that force her and her friends to leave their small village and travel to safety. But they are being followed… by friends, by enemies, or are they the same thing…
This is an amazing fantasy adventure story with some romance sprinkled in. The author is Welsh, and to me it felt like the folklore and history of that country can be seen in the story. (I mean, they have a dragon on their flag…) The story has an easy magic system, and this first book builds the world for us through multiple viewpoints while keeping a good pace. I enjoyed both Ellie and Jonas as characters and can’t wait for the story to continue.
Thank you to @esmeclarkauthor for my copy, I enjoyed it so much!
July 31, 2026
This was one of my best reads of the year.
I wouldn’t really call it romantasy. There is romance, and it matters, but the story is fantasy first. The characters are dealing with consequences, danger, history, politics, loyalty and betrayal, so you are never sitting there waiting for the romance to finally begin. Everything happening around them has weight.
What impressed me most was how well the worldbuilding was woven into the story. The magic system, old legends, political history and different factions are all important, but it never feels like the book pauses to hand you a textbook. You learn through discoveries, conversations and choices, so the world grows naturally around the characters.
The plot keeps unfolding without becoming confusing, and the reveals actually connect back to things planted earlier. Even the side characters feel relevant rather than decorative. The romance is slow, restrained and built through trust, shared danger and a deeper connection, which made it much more effective when it finally started to develop.
A layered, immersive fantasy with real stakes, strong character work and a world that feels much larger than the page. I’m already moving straight into book two. 😆📚
I wouldn’t really call it romantasy. There is romance, and it matters, but the story is fantasy first. The characters are dealing with consequences, danger, history, politics, loyalty and betrayal, so you are never sitting there waiting for the romance to finally begin. Everything happening around them has weight.
What impressed me most was how well the worldbuilding was woven into the story. The magic system, old legends, political history and different factions are all important, but it never feels like the book pauses to hand you a textbook. You learn through discoveries, conversations and choices, so the world grows naturally around the characters.
The plot keeps unfolding without becoming confusing, and the reveals actually connect back to things planted earlier. Even the side characters feel relevant rather than decorative. The romance is slow, restrained and built through trust, shared danger and a deeper connection, which made it much more effective when it finally started to develop.
A layered, immersive fantasy with real stakes, strong character work and a world that feels much larger than the page. I’m already moving straight into book two. 😆📚
May 18, 2025
Too many "strong female characters" in novels today either feel like men in skirts or become damsels the moment a love interest shows up. Ellie Cardrew is neither. She’s kind and caring, but also driven and incredibly stubborn, all while wielding real magical power that lets her stand up to her enemies (not that she wouldn’t have tried without it).
Jonas, the male lead, isn’t your typical macho hero either. He’s equally kind and capable, determined and stubborn in his own way. Together, they’re a great match, though I suspect their stubborn streaks will lead to some interesting clashes in future books.
The fantasy world is rich and intriguing. Book one feels like it only scratched the surface. There’s still so much to uncover about the Aelfen, the Ellvorians, the Shadow Lords, and the mysterious Order of Alator that’s pursuing our heroes. I can’t wait for book two.
If you’re looking for a series with well-rounded, believable characters and a deep, lived-in fantasy world, this one’s for you.
Jonas, the male lead, isn’t your typical macho hero either. He’s equally kind and capable, determined and stubborn in his own way. Together, they’re a great match, though I suspect their stubborn streaks will lead to some interesting clashes in future books.
The fantasy world is rich and intriguing. Book one feels like it only scratched the surface. There’s still so much to uncover about the Aelfen, the Ellvorians, the Shadow Lords, and the mysterious Order of Alator that’s pursuing our heroes. I can’t wait for book two.
If you’re looking for a series with well-rounded, believable characters and a deep, lived-in fantasy world, this one’s for you.
March 25, 2026
I was hooked from the 1st line. I was pulled into this world that Esme created & didn't want to leave. There was action from start to finish, with the characters developing as the story unfolded.
There were a FMC & MMC who were drawn to each other, the other characters didn't disappear into the background, they all had their own story to tell. Ellie has moments of weakness but her strong backbone never lets her down & become a damsel in distress. Jonas is sure of himself & doesn't lose sight of what he needs to do because of the pull to Ellie. I can't wait to see what happens to not only them but also Kari, Seth & Celia & see which of our other characters will make another appearance.
There were a FMC & MMC who were drawn to each other, the other characters didn't disappear into the background, they all had their own story to tell. Ellie has moments of weakness but her strong backbone never lets her down & become a damsel in distress. Jonas is sure of himself & doesn't lose sight of what he needs to do because of the pull to Ellie. I can't wait to see what happens to not only them but also Kari, Seth & Celia & see which of our other characters will make another appearance.
May 26, 2026
I saw this book on TikTok and was intrigued.
From first page I was swallowed up. It’s so beautiful written, and I love the world we are in.
We are in multiple pov’s, which I usually don’t like, but it flows with the story so you don’t even notice, and think, bring me back to the other one. It just brings depth to the story and characters.
The story is about an unexpected adventure of getting away from exceptions but also survival. Finding your place in the world. Friendship deeper than family. Loyalty before all. Magic in an interesting way. Lies and betrayals you don’t see coming. Yearning and love so very beautiful.
And characters you just love.
Happy reading.
From first page I was swallowed up. It’s so beautiful written, and I love the world we are in.
We are in multiple pov’s, which I usually don’t like, but it flows with the story so you don’t even notice, and think, bring me back to the other one. It just brings depth to the story and characters.
The story is about an unexpected adventure of getting away from exceptions but also survival. Finding your place in the world. Friendship deeper than family. Loyalty before all. Magic in an interesting way. Lies and betrayals you don’t see coming. Yearning and love so very beautiful.
And characters you just love.
Happy reading.
May 26, 2025
Ellie spends her life serving and taking care of others.
But when she opens up magic that did not know that she had. Her entire world changes.
Now everyone starts hunting her and she has to trust herself. Trust the person that is inside of her that she didn't know about.
Jonas has an oath to protect Ellie at all costs.
Will their past work for them or against them? They have to work together to try and piece it all together and save their families.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
But when she opens up magic that did not know that she had. Her entire world changes.
Now everyone starts hunting her and she has to trust herself. Trust the person that is inside of her that she didn't know about.
Jonas has an oath to protect Ellie at all costs.
Will their past work for them or against them? They have to work together to try and piece it all together and save their families.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 27, 2025
There's also a good pace from page one, and I was immediately invested in the story - which although a relatively simple journey quest from North to South, to the capital, is full of trouble, interesting character and plot developments, and wider world issues.
I really enjoyed Ellie and Jonas' story and will definitely read book two whenever it's ready. The romance is there, but definitely not the primary plot point. I also like the way there's a cliffhanger, but the actual plot of the book wraps up enough to be both satisfying and intriguing.
I really enjoyed Ellie and Jonas' story and will definitely read book two whenever it's ready. The romance is there, but definitely not the primary plot point. I also like the way there's a cliffhanger, but the actual plot of the book wraps up enough to be both satisfying and intriguing.
December 1, 2025
I can’t wait to read more of Jonas and Ellie! This book has such fantastical dark vibes. I really felt transported into the world when I read it. I loved all the side characters, but the main character, Ellie, is definitely the best. She’s smart, brave, and caring, but she also doesn’t take shit from anyone. I’d recommend this if you like The Wheel of Time and GoT.
September 15, 2026
The Last Oath is a spectacular debut that completely hooked me from the very first page. It is incredibly well-written, and the pacing was perfect—I honestly found myself staying up late just to read "one more chapter."
If you are looking for an addictive new fantasy series to lose yourself in, I cannot recommend this book enough. It easily earns 5 stars
If you are looking for an addictive new fantasy series to lose yourself in, I cannot recommend this book enough. It easily earns 5 stars
March 30, 2026
From start to finish this book is excellent. Well written, with fantastic world building and character development. The relationships do not feel forced or rushed. The story moves along at a good pace, and you are left wanting to read more. Cannot wait until the next one! Highly recommend!
August 20, 2025
Wheel of time with romance! Here. Take it. Enjoy it. You’re welcome. 🥰
May 15, 2026
Loved this book
What a ride this book was absolutely loved the characters the plot everything it was such an easy read as well can't wait for the high Lord book number 2 😀
What a ride this book was absolutely loved the characters the plot everything it was such an easy read as well can't wait for the high Lord book number 2 😀
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews