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To Defy an Oath

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Caught between destiny and desire

In her quest as the chosen one, Maya risks paying a steep price in order to fulfill her duty.

With the weight of the prophecy on her shoulders, she soon realizes that she can trust no

one, not even those who've sworn to protect her. Her only chance at survival lies in an

alliance with Aldridge, a familiar yet dangerous Dūshev whose motives are questionable. If

Maya helps him retrieve an ancient grimoire, he promises to protect her from his father's

wrath. But as uncertainty and betrayal close in on her, Maya must decide whether to

embrace her destiny or defy a prophecy that could destroy her.

562 pages, Paperback

Published September 28, 2025

5 people are currently reading
101 people want to read

About the author

Sara Sultane

2 books19 followers
Sara Sultane, author of To Take a Soul & To Defy an Oath, is a dreamer at heart, intrigued by the allure of magical universes and the secrets they hold. From a young age, Sara has been fascinated by magic, devouring novels that whisked her away to realms far away. Her vivid imagination and passion for reading naturally led her to writing. She discovered that nothing brings her greater joy than weaving worlds, creating stories, and pouring that wonder into every story she writes. When she's not writing, she spends a lot of time daydreaming, brainstorming new story ideas, or, on rare occasions, enjoying Copenhagen's far-between sunny days by eating tacos, sipping piping hot tea, and taking late-night swims in the ocean.
To Take a Soul is her debut novel.

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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for AndaReadsTooMuch.
409 reviews21 followers
September 21, 2025
Huge, huge thank you to Sara Sultane and The Nerd Fam for the opportunity to read both this book, and its predecessor To Take a Soul as gifted eARCs. The opinions expressed about both of the books are my own.

I do not know how I feel about this one! We got a lot of answered questions from the first book, for sure. But I think the end of this one left me with more than when I started! The narrative style of Sultane did jump forward quite a bit, and I did find this one easier to read. We got more of a deep dive on the coven and the Dushevs, there’s a lot of plotting and preparing in this one. The resolution felt like there was a door left cracked open for a return to the world, which could be interesting. It didn’t leave a neat and tidy ending. This world has a lot of potential, and I’d be curious to see what Sultane does with it in the future.

One word of warning: there’s one scene that was 100% not my style, but it may be for others. I am not a fan of the obsessive/possessive partner, especially in spicy scenes (at the 90% mark if you’d also prefer to avoid). Unfortunately, that did sour the ending for me, but again that is my personal feeling on that type of trope. That may not be a dealbreaker for you!
Profile Image for Karidad Ramirez.
128 reviews6 followers
September 28, 2025
WTH with that ending. 

I just finished this book. 
My brain hurts. 
My heart is aching.
But at the same time is happy. 

I need more of both main characters. 
I need our main characters to blossom and heal. 
I need a third book. 

I would leave my review at that, but I can't. 
Sara, what have you done? 
I have conflicted feeling with this ending. 

Anyways, enough of my rant. Let me talk more about the actual book and not my feelings.

This book is the sequel of To Take a Soul. It has a steady pacing with a lot of chaos and trauma (be aware). Great world building like in the previous book, with a mix of Middle Eastern culture and a sprinkle of Hispanic language. 

The characters you will either love them or hate them. Maya is working through a lot of trauma in this installment and we get a bigger appareance of a previous male character, Aldridge. 

This installment is darker and despairing at times, but so worth it. 

Thank you Sara Sultane and the NerdFam for the opportunity of reading this sequel.

Please, give us more of this world.
Profile Image for Chloe Rowley.
232 reviews4 followers
September 16, 2025
What an ending! This second book was an absolute whirlwind, and the romance had me hooked from start to finish. I loved watching the characters grow and seeing how their development made the story even more powerful. It was everything I hoped for and more.
Profile Image for Amna Reads Books آمنہ.
13 reviews2 followers
August 22, 2025
Okay, hear me out!

If you read the first book and you’re super confused about Maya and her relationship with Adam then all of your confusion and frustrations will be resolved once you read this book.

Although I enjoyed the first book I had so many questions especially around the prophecy, the origins of the two families and many of the relationships, but the second book really does answer all of the questions I had and everything just clicked into place!

So please, if you’ve read the first book and you’re confused, you need to pick up the second book. It’s even better than the first one!

Without giving any spoilers away I am very very happy with the relationship in this book! It was just perfect! The way the book ended could have allowed this story to end as a duology (which I will NOT allow) or that there could be a third book (there has to be!!! I need more!)

The author recently announced that a third book was coming which made me so happy! So once you’ve read the first and second book please go flood the author’s social media accounts with requests to write the third book and release it asap because I need more romance, adventure, magic, longing, everything!!!
Profile Image for Jarlyn Camacho.
161 reviews3 followers
September 19, 2025
Wow. Book two in this series absolutely delivered.

If you read To Take a Soul and found yourself confused or left with more questions than answers—trust me, To Defy an Oath is the book that ties everything together. The prophecy, the family histories, Maya and Adam’s complicated relationship—all of it finally clicked into place in such a satisfying way.

Sara Sultane really leveled up with this sequel. The pacing is sharper, the action more intense, and the magic system felt fully realized and so immersive. I loved how the cultural influences were woven throughout the worldbuilding—it made the story feel rich and layered, and the touches of Middle Eastern culture were some of my favorite parts.

And let’s talk about the romance… the tension, the chemistry, the slow burn! This book had me absolutely hooked. The relationship development was everything I was hoping for, and that ending left me both swooning and desperate for more.

Without spoilers, I’ll just say this: whether this stays a duology or becomes a trilogy, I need more of this world, these characters, and this magic. Book two proves that this series is something special—romance, prophecy, betrayal, longing, and destiny all wrapped into one addictive package.

If you struggled a bit with the first book, don’t give up. Pick this one up. You won’t regret it.

✨ This series is a must-read for fans of prophecy-driven fantasy, slow burn romance, and high-stakes magic.
Profile Image for Katelyn Delone.
132 reviews10 followers
September 13, 2025
“She belonged to me, in every way that mattered-mind, body, and soul.”

Imma just leave that quote there because yess yes sir. Did you think Adam was capable of such words? Ahah. No no in book two the roles get reversed and he becomes the man you are going to hate; and a new brother enters the chat and man is he yummy and the man you’re going to be on your kneels for by the end of this book. Ugh res. My heart. Now another note Sara you have fudged my brain up so bad I’m wondering if I just finished the show lost because that’s how I just felt at the end of it!!! You brain fudged me in the nicest terms possible because now I don’t know what’s real anymore. In other news the way Sara had added so much differences of cultures into this book is immaculate and chefs kiss. Also all the new characters in this book ugh I love ev she’s amazing but at this point was it even real I don’t even know anymore that’s how my brain is spiraling!!! You knocked it out of the park with this one for sure and I ate it all up. Now I’m going to go stare at the wall and try to wrap my brain around the fact that the story was suppose to end this way and I would of been left with more questions than answers because you warped my brain as I soak in that at least there’s comfort in knowing you are now writing a third book because I need answers because just like maya I’ve gone crazy as well. 😅
Profile Image for Reem.
90 reviews5 followers
September 7, 2025
ARC Review

This is book 2 to To Take A Soul.

If you've read book 1, you were probably very confused and had so many questions. It's okay, me too and I'm happy to say book 2 clears up all the confusion.

I don't know why the author said this is a duology...baby with the way this book ended there needs to be a book 3 cause what do you mean?? Without spoilers, the ending of this book allows this to stay a duology like the author intended but there's also room to make this a trilogy. I'm 100% on board to make this a trilogy and if not a trilogy, PLEASE I need a novella or something!!

I loved To Defy an Oath so much! When I tell y'all I read this in one sitting, I'm not kidding. My eyes were glued to the book, I needed to know what happened next.

The magic system in this book is so damn good and has you captivated. The magic, the plot, the romance, the TENSION...I was SAT. Y'all the slow burn is too good and when I say this is the slowest of slow burns, I mean it lmao. I was eating up the tension and chemistry.

Different cultures are mixed into this book, which is refreshing to read. I enjoyed consuming the different languages, food, music, and cultures. My favorite part of course was reading about Middle Eastern culture!

This series is a must read!



Profile Image for lizface.
189 reviews6 followers
September 19, 2025
“As the weeks passed, I became more and more detached from life. I was numb to all my feelings. I felt nothing, not pain, not happiness, not even anger. Why would I? I was soulless. Soulless people didn’t feel anything.”


Shit 😭
I was NOT expecting this to go the way it did.
But now it all makes so much sense!
Why Maya felt the way she did towards Adam and vice versa, they had feelings yes but there was a reason. And holy moly 😱 I was prepared.

As Maya continues her journey to either do duty to fulfill the prophecy or live how she desires she realizes she may not be able to trust those she sworn to follow her. The one person she finds she can trust was someone she least expected. And honestly he’s kinda growing on her. Maya meets new people and learns to be one with herself once again. But she still has a debt to repay by retrieving an ancient grimoire. Finally the moment has come to complete the task for the debt she owes, but betrayal is not far behind.

The ending? The epilogue?! I’m love 🥹
Just rip my heart right out, and hand it back on a silver platter why don’t you.
I adored to slow build of the relationship in this book. And I NEED book 3 like yesterday!!

Thank you Nerd Fam and Sara for my eARC 🫶🏼
Profile Image for WhimsyRoseReads.
75 reviews8 followers
September 29, 2025
The second book in this series completely delivered—and in ways I didn’t expect.

While the magic and destiny elements continue to expand beautifully, it was the emotional shift in this installment that really got me. The romance felt real this time—not just chemistry, but connection. Soul-deep, fated, can’t-look-away kind of connection. And honestly? Thank goodness Maya doesn’t end up with Adam. I never liked him. He always felt like the wrong fit—flat, possessive, and not nearly as interesting.

Enter Res. From the start, there was something about him that pulled me in—his mystery, his power, his quiet intensity. I was constantly waiting for him to show up on the page, and when he finally stepped into the spotlight, it just clicked. The dynamic between him and Maya was everything the story needed: charged, complex, and deeply compelling.

The pacing, especially in the second half, was impossible to put down. And that ending? Absolutely wild. I did not see it coming, and I loved that. It felt like the story took a bold leap—one that paid off.
This book proved that the series isn’t just about fate—it’s about choice. Maya stepping into her power, letting go of what no longer serves her (looking at you, Adam), and claiming something that feels truly right.
Profile Image for Cátia Vieira.
34 reviews3 followers
September 4, 2025
I read the first book and immediately fell in love with Maya... I felt like the author captured exactly what it's like to feel unfulfilled.

The magic system in this world was great and super addictive. Having a feminine side and a masculine side enchanted me and also made me think about how our roles in society are so different.

This second book had more action and more tension too. But that ending!!! I still don't know if I can say if I liked it because I'm still processing it, but it was something I didn't see coming, that's for sure.

Thanks Sara Sultane for the honor of reading this ARC.
Profile Image for Beth fairie tails.
181 reviews5 followers
September 5, 2025
This book left me REELING!
First let me tell you this is the SLOWEST of slow burns but the pay off is WORTH IT.
Hopefully you came here after To Take a Soul and know that you are going to be dancing between countries and customs and traditions and languages, which all work together with a HEALTHY sprinkle of witch craft. You’ll never look at a braid the same.
I enjoyed the first book but this sequel is AMAZING! Fast paced and a good read, but it will mess with you mind in the best of ways!
I love it. I really did.
I was gifted the arc thru the author, but I did buy the first book myself. I can’t wait to have both on my shelf.
Profile Image for Pà.
867 reviews13 followers
September 19, 2025
Right from the first chapter, I was completely absorbed in this story. Maya’s journey felt real and engaging, and I loved how her choices and growth were explored in depth. Adam became more complex, and the slow burning tension between them kept me invested. The new characters were intriguing, and the cultural aspects made the world feel rich and alive. The magic system was clever and addictive. The pacing was excellent, keeping me turning pages, and the ending surprised me while leaving me eager for the next book. Thank you so much to the author and The Nerd Fam for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Sarah.
75 reviews6 followers
September 28, 2025
This series had a unique take on magic and souls. It had a lot of Iranian influence and it was fun to read the story and learn different elements of the culture. I really enjoyed the different perspective in these books, and the second book is even better than the first

The FMC maya was born to fulfill a prophecy that is unaware of and unaware of the existence of magic. She inexplicably drawn to man named Adam. Adam is part of an ancient family that has the ability to take souls. When Maya learns that her fate is to destroyed Adam and his family she is torn between Adam and the duty she feels to her family. Thank to Nerd fam for the advance copy.
1 review
October 2, 2025
First book was absolutely amazing BUT this second book absolutely wrecked me.. in the best possible way. I’ve been so emotionally invested in this book, it’s crazy!

The twists had me gasping, the tension with some of the characters had me screaming at the pages, and by the end I was just sitting there in shock, questioning my hole life.

This book hurt me and healed me and I have loved every single second of it. I was crying at the end of the book and if I don’t get a third book, I will literally hop off a cliff.

I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS TO MAYA AND RÈS, PLSSSSSS 😭

If you want a story that will consume your soul and still make you beg for more, this is it.
Profile Image for iesha Bright.
514 reviews18 followers
August 31, 2025
ok so after the first book this one definitely picked up.
i was confused on maya and adams relationship but it got cleared up with this book. book one left me with a ton of questions and not really any answers but it was because book two was here to explain it. its like it all fell into place. the relationship was what i was hoping for, the magic was there and that ending... (??? is it) was great. if you struggled a bit throught the first book pick the second one up i promise you wont regret it. she ATE with book two.
Profile Image for Raven Grant.
134 reviews3 followers
September 22, 2025
I really was liking this until the ending that is. This answered many questions that were left unanswered in the first book. I loved the way this easily picked up from where the first book ended. Like the first book the world building and imagery were amazing and easy to imagine the places they went.

I was surprised by the ending and the epilogue as a whole as it was not the ending I was expecting. It honestly confused me more than answering the remaining questions I have and it was almost left that there could be more clarification in another book (mind you this is a duology).
3.5/5
51 reviews1 follower
October 9, 2025
Sequel to: To Take A Soul

Maya carries the heavy load of a prophecy on her shoulders and realises that she can trust no one.

Her chance of survival? Aldridge - whose motives are qustional at best. He promises protection in exchange for an ancient grimoire.

To Defy an Oath answers many of those questions and confusions we're left with at the end of To Take A Soul.
I love that different cultures are represented through this series.
Caution! Always ready trigger warnings. Your mental health matters.
Profile Image for Ellen Knowles.
35 reviews
October 12, 2025
Thank you to the author and The Nerd Fam for the arc.

A good sequel, liked seeing how the story developed. I enjoyed the world the author created and learning more about different cultures. I thought the pacing was good. I liked the expansion of the magical system. Also that cover is just gorgeous, it was what drew me to apply for the arc in the first place.

I do feel like there are a few unanswered questions but it’s still an enjoyable read.

I would recommend this book for people who like mythology and fantasy.
Profile Image for Megan Ray.
81 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2025
My 1st Sara Sultane book and it was hard to get into a first (read the books in the wrong order oops) anyways after a couple of chapters, I got into the story and was trapped. Is she the end of a family line or the new start? Which brother holds the soul to that destiny? I was enraptured by the magic and storyline, this story will have you holding your breath for the next chapter. Pick this up for a great story that will take you from Egypt to the mystic south of New Orleans.
Profile Image for Rachel Watkinson.
171 reviews2 followers
September 19, 2025
To Defy and Oath
ARC Review
By Sara sultane
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Let me start by saying I didn't read the first book. However, I loved the 2nd one!

I loved the story building and the characters. There was so much depth to everything, and I never felt like I couldn't keep up.

This was such a great read, I would say for reference and background for sure to read the first one. But omg Rés and Maya have my heart ❤️ that ending was something else!
Ev was definitely my favorite side character 😊
2 reviews
August 15, 2025
Guys trust me when I tell u this was one of the best book I’ve read this year she ate with the first book but she cooked with this one I actually couldn’t put it downnnn I need another book like asappppp. Like at first maya was such a fatty 🤣🤣🤣 but then she actually pattern up. Also bun Adam he’s the actual fatty.
Profile Image for Lauren Head.
654 reviews14 followers
September 28, 2025
That ending wrecked me in the best and worst ways! This sequel to To Take a Soul is darker, chaotic, and steeped in trauma, yet the worldbuilding and characters shine even brighter. Maya’s journey is raw and gripping, Aldridge adds new depth, and the blend of cultures makes the setting unforgettable. Heartbreaking but so worth it! I need book three now!
Profile Image for Jennifer Loschiavo.
1,095 reviews14 followers
August 21, 2025
Well this really picked up pace in book two. More action and focus. Magic system really stabilized. And that ending 😍! Very good choice on the fmc end. The continued world building improved in this book. Good visuals. I loved the increased emotions in this book as well. 4.5 stars.
Profile Image for Beki W.
63 reviews
September 18, 2025
4-4.5🌟 Rounded up.

The tension, the yearning- top tier.


I cant decide how many stars but all I know is I didnt even remember to write notes while reading this.
Book two was so much better than book 1 (which was still really good btw).

If you want a Enemies to lovers, prophecy filled, witchy, Elemental Magic, touch her and die book vibe... read this book.

The way Res develops.... lordy lordy its a beauty.

Just wait for the ending. My mind was blown and I had to process for a few days 🤣. THIS is how you do an ending.

Highly reccomend!!!
Profile Image for Nikki O'Brien.
61 reviews1 follower
September 27, 2025
3.5 stars
thanks so much to Sara Sultane and The Nerd Fam for the ARC
This was an interesting story. I enjoyed the magic system and the Persian influences. I felt the ending was a little odd tho and wonder what else there might be for the characters?
597 reviews5 followers
September 30, 2025
This is a sequel book, the books are pretty enjoyable. I read through this quickly. As with any darker books, read the triggers and enjoy the ride if you like darker themes. The characters did hook me in. I was quite surprised with how much I liked this book.
Profile Image for Lin A. 📚🎶.
76 reviews
January 7, 2026
This really gutted me. The way the main character had to grow into her own, and learn the hard way that most people are not good people. The ending definitely leads me to believe there will be a third book though.
Profile Image for Ash.
14 reviews
September 3, 2025
Continued world building, deeper rooted magic system I just wasn’t the biggest fan of the ending but otherwise a pretty solid slow burn romance duology with found family and forbidden love
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews

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