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Ard's Oath #7
Royal Mysteries
The war is over, but the fallout is palpable. Ard finds himself back in the capital of Avente as tensions rise, lines are drawn, and he wants absolutely nothing to do with it.
All Ard desires is some relaxation. After visiting his family, he finds a convenient excuse to escape to Zenovia. However, he soon finds himself entangled in a different political beast. This one is far more entertaining for Arden, who is trapped in the Zenovian palace while a mysterious force is assassinating potential heirs.
Ard is thrilled by the murder mystery unfolding before his very eyes. At the same time, he is trying to protect Eva from becoming one of the victims. The situation will require Arden to tap into his burgeoning powers and understand himself on a deeper level. For Arden, this might be one of the most significant challenges he has faced to date.
Thankfully, he is not alone. He has three goddesses, four anchors, and a princess by his side to help him direct his power along the way.
All Ard desires is some relaxation. After visiting his family, he finds a convenient excuse to escape to Zenovia. However, he soon finds himself entangled in a different political beast. This one is far more entertaining for Arden, who is trapped in the Zenovian palace while a mysterious force is assassinating potential heirs.
Ard is thrilled by the murder mystery unfolding before his very eyes. At the same time, he is trying to protect Eva from becoming one of the victims. The situation will require Arden to tap into his burgeoning powers and understand himself on a deeper level. For Arden, this might be one of the most significant challenges he has faced to date.
Thankfully, he is not alone. He has three goddesses, four anchors, and a princess by his side to help him direct his power along the way.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2025
227 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Bruce Sentar
56 books792 followersBorn and raised in the agricultural midwest, I moved every year after school even as far as Shanghai before settling down with my wife in Chicago.
I have always enjoyed Wuxia stories and became thrilled when I discovered harem stories spreading to western books. I've written down my day dreams for years as an idle hobby. Inspired by the harem genre I'm finally fleshing them out into full blown novels.
I'm excited to share my stories with you as I turn them into novels and series.
Connect with me on Facebook for updates on my latest books.
https://www.facebook.com/Bruce-Sentar...
I have always enjoyed Wuxia stories and became thrilled when I discovered harem stories spreading to western books. I've written down my day dreams for years as an idle hobby. Inspired by the harem genre I'm finally fleshing them out into full blown novels.
I'm excited to share my stories with you as I turn them into novels and series.
Connect with me on Facebook for updates on my latest books.
https://www.facebook.com/Bruce-Sentar...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 5, 2025
too bad
I really liked this series when it started ard came off as clever and fun the harem element was perfect (after 3-4 it’s just annoying) I really enjoyed it and it was on track for the next couple of books. Now I DNF this book Ard is now annoying and feels like a full of himself ass instead of just someone who has healthy self esteem and he is now unlikeable and the harem is clunky and boring and to be honest I don’t like the goddess harem storyline so this is where I get off the hook. DNF
I really liked this series when it started ard came off as clever and fun the harem element was perfect (after 3-4 it’s just annoying) I really enjoyed it and it was on track for the next couple of books. Now I DNF this book Ard is now annoying and feels like a full of himself ass instead of just someone who has healthy self esteem and he is now unlikeable and the harem is clunky and boring and to be honest I don’t like the goddess harem storyline so this is where I get off the hook. DNF
September 11, 2025
Ard being Ard
The characters in this book really set it apart. All of our main characters mesh so well together. I'm happy we're getting one more book, and hopefully, it's a great ending to the series. Unfortunately, this book has a very rushed second act and lost most of its impact on the story. Thankfully, the MC and FMCs salvaged it by being themselves, but the actual plot has started to stall
SPOILERS BELOW
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I really thought the ending of this book was very anticlimactic, especially with Freya and the other gods. I love Bruce's books, but I feel like sometimes he phones it in towards the end of the series, Saving Supervillains is a prime example where the last book just kinda rushed through everything and it lost it's impact. I felt the same way in the second half of this book. Hopefully, Bruce gets it together for the last book, I certainly understand getting bored with a series at wanting to move one, but we need a great ending. I know Bruce can deliver because some of his other series have great endings.
The characters in this book really set it apart. All of our main characters mesh so well together. I'm happy we're getting one more book, and hopefully, it's a great ending to the series. Unfortunately, this book has a very rushed second act and lost most of its impact on the story. Thankfully, the MC and FMCs salvaged it by being themselves, but the actual plot has started to stall
SPOILERS BELOW
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I really thought the ending of this book was very anticlimactic, especially with Freya and the other gods. I love Bruce's books, but I feel like sometimes he phones it in towards the end of the series, Saving Supervillains is a prime example where the last book just kinda rushed through everything and it lost it's impact. I felt the same way in the second half of this book. Hopefully, Bruce gets it together for the last book, I certainly understand getting bored with a series at wanting to move one, but we need a great ending. I know Bruce can deliver because some of his other series have great endings.
September 15, 2025
I love Ard but...
I love all the main cast of this series. You can tell how much fun the author is having writing Ard, and his interactions with Emlyn in particular. I do feel like the cast is getting a little large at this stage, so some of them get sidelined a little which is a shame. The whole development of Ard's powers is also pretty cool and interesting, though I wish we got to see him be more creative with his magic, instead of falling back on the same old blasts of overpowering might. For example at the end of the book when he makes a Nose Golem, that was hilarious and totally on brand for Ard - more like that please!
I think where the book really could have improved is with the villain. I felt this issue with some of Mr. Sentar's previous work (Saving Supervillains) where the villains are underdeveloped and don't end up requiring much effort to defeat. They never have the upper hand on our heroes, and there's never a point at which the villain maybe reveals something that forces the hero to re-evaluate their biases or previous thinking. The author introduced an opportunity for this with Bad Kitty at the end, but the book is already over so there's no opportunity for conflict amongst the harem. Perhaps it's the trappings of the genre, as I know people don't come here for moral ambiguity and complex emotional stakes! *Spoilers ahead*
With regards to the villains, I think it was a misstep to have Ard defeat Freya here and for Hades to go free - Freya has been introduced for a while, and has a much stronger connection to Ard and his world. Hades just sorta showed up in the last book and we know nothing about him. He's implied to have a connection to Ditzy but since Ard has solidified his relationship with her, and the next book appears to be more focused on Bad Kitty, I don't know if it will be the best place to explore that relationship.
Overall I still had a good time with the book and look forward to whatever the author puts out next! If the author reads this, please know that I criticise the things I enjoy, with the hope that at least something I say can be helpful in future!
I love all the main cast of this series. You can tell how much fun the author is having writing Ard, and his interactions with Emlyn in particular. I do feel like the cast is getting a little large at this stage, so some of them get sidelined a little which is a shame. The whole development of Ard's powers is also pretty cool and interesting, though I wish we got to see him be more creative with his magic, instead of falling back on the same old blasts of overpowering might. For example at the end of the book when he makes a Nose Golem, that was hilarious and totally on brand for Ard - more like that please!
I think where the book really could have improved is with the villain. I felt this issue with some of Mr. Sentar's previous work (Saving Supervillains) where the villains are underdeveloped and don't end up requiring much effort to defeat. They never have the upper hand on our heroes, and there's never a point at which the villain maybe reveals something that forces the hero to re-evaluate their biases or previous thinking. The author introduced an opportunity for this with Bad Kitty at the end, but the book is already over so there's no opportunity for conflict amongst the harem. Perhaps it's the trappings of the genre, as I know people don't come here for moral ambiguity and complex emotional stakes! *Spoilers ahead*
With regards to the villains, I think it was a misstep to have Ard defeat Freya here and for Hades to go free - Freya has been introduced for a while, and has a much stronger connection to Ard and his world. Hades just sorta showed up in the last book and we know nothing about him. He's implied to have a connection to Ditzy but since Ard has solidified his relationship with her, and the next book appears to be more focused on Bad Kitty, I don't know if it will be the best place to explore that relationship.
Overall I still had a good time with the book and look forward to whatever the author puts out next! If the author reads this, please know that I criticise the things I enjoy, with the hope that at least something I say can be helpful in future!
September 23, 2025
A bit slow, but still fun
This book has a very slow start. It's obvious that the author isn't interested in the consequences of the end of the previous book and really wants to start another adventure.
That being said, the next adventure is fun. Finding out about Ard's dad is interesting and the politics of his newly met family are dramatic. The power escalation of the previous book turns this section completely on its head in a way that's amusing. It's a bit campy, but that's the fun part.
Overall, the dragging first half cuts deeply into the potential of the second half. It's worth reading, but not quite what it could have been.
This book has a very slow start. It's obvious that the author isn't interested in the consequences of the end of the previous book and really wants to start another adventure.
That being said, the next adventure is fun. Finding out about Ard's dad is interesting and the politics of his newly met family are dramatic. The power escalation of the previous book turns this section completely on its head in a way that's amusing. It's a bit campy, but that's the fun part.
Overall, the dragging first half cuts deeply into the potential of the second half. It's worth reading, but not quite what it could have been.
September 13, 2025
Another good one
Enjoyable continuation. While some of the criticisms Ard had leveled at him made sense, some really didn't. Like him telling them that he didn't want to be in politics. He 100% would have been ignored, by both his mother and grandfather. Also Maribelle continues to be a frustrating character. I want to like her, I even mostly do, but then she deliberately ruins another girls night, faces literally zero repercussions despite the fact shed kill anyone who did the same to her and it's another reminder her character being an odd inclusion.
Enjoyable continuation. While some of the criticisms Ard had leveled at him made sense, some really didn't. Like him telling them that he didn't want to be in politics. He 100% would have been ignored, by both his mother and grandfather. Also Maribelle continues to be a frustrating character. I want to like her, I even mostly do, but then she deliberately ruins another girls night, faces literally zero repercussions despite the fact shed kill anyone who did the same to her and it's another reminder her character being an odd inclusion.
September 14, 2025
Enjoyable as always
I wasn't sure what direction this series would take after the King's death, but this was an enjoyable change. Ard's growth was slower, but his personality and witticisms were present in full force. Seeing his developing relationships is always nice, but I felt like it was a little light around Zuri and Aurelia. Hopefully we can see more of their personality in the next book. I can't wait to see what direction it takes and itmf there will be a new evil to overcome.
I wasn't sure what direction this series would take after the King's death, but this was an enjoyable change. Ard's growth was slower, but his personality and witticisms were present in full force. Seeing his developing relationships is always nice, but I felt like it was a little light around Zuri and Aurelia. Hopefully we can see more of their personality in the next book. I can't wait to see what direction it takes and itmf there will be a new evil to overcome.
September 29, 2025
It's a good book
If you like the previous books in the series, you're going to enjoy this one. Same cast of characters, decent fights funniest and magic exotic lookhouse. Just a fun time. I don't know what else I can tell you without giving plot away or lessening your enjoyment of the book. The main character is fun and it's irreverent as ever and The supporting cast is very well written. I'm writing this review with voice to text. I apologize for any spelling errors.
If you like the previous books in the series, you're going to enjoy this one. Same cast of characters, decent fights funniest and magic exotic lookhouse. Just a fun time. I don't know what else I can tell you without giving plot away or lessening your enjoyment of the book. The main character is fun and it's irreverent as ever and The supporting cast is very well written. I'm writing this review with voice to text. I apologize for any spelling errors.
October 5, 2025
Shark fest
Alternative universe, magic, save the kingdoms, OP MC, harem adult situations
Arden and his entourage leave two kingdoms without a clear ruler, and head south to Zenovia to find out about how Arden's father died. Naturally, bodies begin to drop like flies and chaos ensues. The snark was frequently over the top, and hopefully, in the next book, Arden will be less self-absorbed. Excellent editing.
Alternative universe, magic, save the kingdoms, OP MC, harem adult situations
Arden and his entourage leave two kingdoms without a clear ruler, and head south to Zenovia to find out about how Arden's father died. Naturally, bodies begin to drop like flies and chaos ensues. The snark was frequently over the top, and hopefully, in the next book, Arden will be less self-absorbed. Excellent editing.
September 11, 2025
Well that was unexpectedly awesome
A murder mystery surrounding royals? That is just the right pace to enjoy Ard's second to last step into his crazy journey. Now to wait and see if hope does indeed burn bright in the finale, what with an angry god of the dead still waiting to strike. If you like murder, fun, and crazy magic, this series delivers in spades with plenty of spice.
A murder mystery surrounding royals? That is just the right pace to enjoy Ard's second to last step into his crazy journey. Now to wait and see if hope does indeed burn bright in the finale, what with an angry god of the dead still waiting to strike. If you like murder, fun, and crazy magic, this series delivers in spades with plenty of spice.
September 14, 2025
read with caution.
Amazing British undertones and more modern quotes but still a swift and at times horrific ride. A little risqué at times as well. A more chaotic Ard but also more support from his anchors. All in all, a blisteringly paced story.
Amazing British undertones and more modern quotes but still a swift and at times horrific ride. A little risqué at times as well. A more chaotic Ard but also more support from his anchors. All in all, a blisteringly paced story.
September 16, 2025
new location, new adventure, same Ard
Ard goes to Zenovia
Chaos ensues
Murder mystery dinner theater??
On the goddess front, this is mostly a Ditzy story, but (*spoiler alert)
The next one looks like it will be Bad Kitty
Ard goes to Zenovia
Chaos ensues
Murder mystery dinner theater??
On the goddess front, this is mostly a Ditzy story, but (*spoiler alert)
The next one looks like it will be Bad Kitty
September 16, 2025
great writer
This was a really good addition to the series. Read the books and stop reading reviews because you’d be enjoying yourself a lot more than agonizing if this series is worth the trouble
This was a really good addition to the series. Read the books and stop reading reviews because you’d be enjoying yourself a lot more than agonizing if this series is worth the trouble
September 23, 2025
Can’t wait for the final book!
If you’ve enjoyed all the other books in this series, you’ll love this one! This story definitely takes a darker turn, but still has all the normal Arden humor. Can’t wait to see how he finishes this story!
If you’ve enjoyed all the other books in this series, you’ll love this one! This story definitely takes a darker turn, but still has all the normal Arden humor. Can’t wait to see how he finishes this story!
September 22, 2025
Almost to the end of a great ride
The next to last book in the series apparently and things are still hopping. Another great Ard story and looking forward to the conclusion of the series.
The next to last book in the series apparently and things are still hopping. Another great Ard story and looking forward to the conclusion of the series.
September 26, 2025
Absolutely loved the murder mystery conceit. Kinda hope the series takes a left turn and Book 8 is also just Ard solving murder mysteries. Or maybe just a rapid tour of several other kinds of genre fiction.
October 1, 2025
Brilliant
This had been a brilliant series so far and while I'm looking forward to the next book I'll be sad when it end though it will mean i can reread the series from start to finish. Are had been a great MC to read. Loving the craziness.
This had been a brilliant series so far and while I'm looking forward to the next book I'll be sad when it end though it will mean i can reread the series from start to finish. Are had been a great MC to read. Loving the craziness.
October 11, 2025
Another great sequel.
I really loved reading this book. It was funny and engaging. The story and characters were incredibly interesting and entertaining. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next. This book and series are definitely worth checking out.
I really loved reading this book. It was funny and engaging. The story and characters were incredibly interesting and entertaining. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next. This book and series are definitely worth checking out.
October 13, 2025
It was a very good book
I enjoyed the characters and the dynamics I kinda wish they had some more hard conversations like the whole thing with Aphrodite and Ard, I feel like that was a little manipulative of Aphrodite.
I enjoyed the characters and the dynamics I kinda wish they had some more hard conversations like the whole thing with Aphrodite and Ard, I feel like that was a little manipulative of Aphrodite.
October 16, 2025
Wow, just wow...
This series could have ended here. yes, it was that good. Ard discovers more of himself and his bonds and does a lot od Ard things, but mostly all of his toes are now gone, so where does the author go from here?
This series could have ended here. yes, it was that good. Ard discovers more of himself and his bonds and does a lot od Ard things, but mostly all of his toes are now gone, so where does the author go from here?
November 12, 2025
love this series
I have to say that Ard rubbed off on me a little. I really enjoyed this series and was so immersed I bing read it. Great characters, great story progression, lots of fun. Thank you to the author.
I have to say that Ard rubbed off on me a little. I really enjoyed this series and was so immersed I bing read it. Great characters, great story progression, lots of fun. Thank you to the author.
December 24, 2025
Awesome story
Really enjoyed how unique and inventive the story was! In looking forward to the next book! I love how funny the MC is with just the right amount of intimacy for each girl. Could be more adult scenes, but overall j loved it!
Really enjoyed how unique and inventive the story was! In looking forward to the next book! I love how funny the MC is with just the right amount of intimacy for each girl. Could be more adult scenes, but overall j loved it!
January 8, 2026
good pacing for the story
I enjoyed the new kingdom, the intrigue behind the scenes, and the book in general. I feel like Ard is backsliding into being annoying, but everyone else makes up for it.
I enjoyed the new kingdom, the intrigue behind the scenes, and the book in general. I feel like Ard is backsliding into being annoying, but everyone else makes up for it.
September 10, 2025
Fanfreakingtastic!
What an amazing book! I absolutely loved this book and such wonderful characters! I can not wait for the next book to come out!
What an amazing book! I absolutely loved this book and such wonderful characters! I can not wait for the next book to come out!
September 12, 2025
more chaos, more disrespect for rank and file and some new things learned, well we hope Ard learned.
September 12, 2025
Not as satisfying as the previous books, which is very unlike Bruce. I actually had to skip a large portion of it because murder mysteries are lame.
September 17, 2025
The usual greatness
Action, laughter, romance, Ard is up to his usual adventures but the stakes are getting higher as his power grows. I you enjoyed the others you should love this.
Action, laughter, romance, Ard is up to his usual adventures but the stakes are getting higher as his power grows. I you enjoyed the others you should love this.
September 19, 2025
Cannot wait for the series to end
As much as I love Bruce's work, I would prefer that he focus on RD or DD than this. I find it difficult to enjoy
As much as I love Bruce's work, I would prefer that he focus on RD or DD than this. I find it difficult to enjoy
September 20, 2025
An amazing series!!!!
I've laughed till I cried so much in this book!!! The MC's wild crazy antics and the amazing women of his family make this a true must read series!!!
I've laughed till I cried so much in this book!!! The MC's wild crazy antics and the amazing women of his family make this a true must read series!!!
September 24, 2025
Another good one
Always look forward to Ards adventures. He's one of my favorite characters along with his band. Sad to hear we only get one more book.
Always look forward to Ards adventures. He's one of my favorite characters along with his band. Sad to hear we only get one more book.
September 28, 2025
Ard and Co.
Hands down this is my favorite series by Mr. Sentar. There is just so much to love. Let's go Cyam... best boy away!
Hands down this is my favorite series by Mr. Sentar. There is just so much to love. Let's go Cyam... best boy away!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews