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ASHBOUND OATHS: A Grimdark Epic Fantasy Sequel of Dragons Rising and Shattered Faith
Bards sing of glory and gold—but never the price paid in blood.
The Scepter of Cymathu lies shattered. Its destruction reverberated across the world, reshaping both the victors and the vanquished. As ancient wyrms rise, the countdown to annihilation begins. But salvation lies with a disparate band of misfits.
Grimlock, a Totem Warrior driven by rage, risks being consumed by the very beast that secured his triumph. Vigilanton, an exiled knight bound by a blood-debt, gambles everything to escape a crime lord’s grasp. Mystic Alyndra heeds the call of the Daylyns—conduits of the Goddess of Magic—and slips into an unnatural sleep. Her only hope lies with Everleigh, once devout, now reeling from revelations that shatter everything she believed.
They thought their war was over, their victory earned, but the true battle lies within. If they cannot conquer their inner demons, the growing wyrms will reduce the world to ash and ruin.
Ashbound Oaths , the thrilling sequel to Relentless Blades , plunges readers back into the world of Zarune, forever changed by the shattering of the Scepter of Cymathu This epic fantasy, filled with intense action, profound character struggles, and powerful magic, explores what happens to heroes after the battle ends, but peace never comes.
As a THANK YOU to those who purchase Ashbound Oaths , please contact me via my various socials (found inside the book) and I will provide you with access to a draft chapter from the trilogy's epic conclusion!
The Scepter of Cymathu lies shattered. Its destruction reverberated across the world, reshaping both the victors and the vanquished. As ancient wyrms rise, the countdown to annihilation begins. But salvation lies with a disparate band of misfits.
Grimlock, a Totem Warrior driven by rage, risks being consumed by the very beast that secured his triumph. Vigilanton, an exiled knight bound by a blood-debt, gambles everything to escape a crime lord’s grasp. Mystic Alyndra heeds the call of the Daylyns—conduits of the Goddess of Magic—and slips into an unnatural sleep. Her only hope lies with Everleigh, once devout, now reeling from revelations that shatter everything she believed.
They thought their war was over, their victory earned, but the true battle lies within. If they cannot conquer their inner demons, the growing wyrms will reduce the world to ash and ruin.
Ashbound Oaths , the thrilling sequel to Relentless Blades , plunges readers back into the world of Zarune, forever changed by the shattering of the Scepter of Cymathu This epic fantasy, filled with intense action, profound character struggles, and powerful magic, explores what happens to heroes after the battle ends, but peace never comes.
As a THANK YOU to those who purchase Ashbound Oaths , please contact me via my various socials (found inside the book) and I will provide you with access to a draft chapter from the trilogy's epic conclusion!
467 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 18, 2025
About the author
Russell Carroll
9 books33 followersRussell Carroll is an accomplished author focusing on dark, sword and sorcery fantasy. He passionately crafts tales of noble, but flawed heroes overcoming personal demons to vanquish wicked villains. The kind of adventures he and his friends lived while growing up playing Dungeons and Dragons. A hallmark of his writing is vivid combat so visceral it places the reader in the middle of the action.
In 2020, he fulfilled a lifelong ambition when his short story, The Purple Heart, was published as part of the Days of the Dead fanthology, Nevada Necromance edition. He released his first novel, Relentless Blades: The Prophecies of Zarune, Volume I on October 21, 2024, to much success. Ashbound Oaths, the exciting sequel, releases in the fall of 2025. Together they constitute love letters to his teenage self and all those who enjoy epic fantasy.
He and his family are passionate about animals and have a growing number of pets, including two German shepherds, Auggie and Luna, their ackie monitor, Mushu, a blue-tongue skink named Dewey, a green cheek conure parrot named Piko, their ball python, Yoshi and two crested geckos, Lucius and Iris.
You’re never too old to chase your dreams!
As a 'thank you' for all those who purchase his books, please contact him. He will add you to his email list and give you access to bonus deleted scenes from Relentless Blades and a draft sample chapter from Ashbound Oaths.
In 2020, he fulfilled a lifelong ambition when his short story, The Purple Heart, was published as part of the Days of the Dead fanthology, Nevada Necromance edition. He released his first novel, Relentless Blades: The Prophecies of Zarune, Volume I on October 21, 2024, to much success. Ashbound Oaths, the exciting sequel, releases in the fall of 2025. Together they constitute love letters to his teenage self and all those who enjoy epic fantasy.
He and his family are passionate about animals and have a growing number of pets, including two German shepherds, Auggie and Luna, their ackie monitor, Mushu, a blue-tongue skink named Dewey, a green cheek conure parrot named Piko, their ball python, Yoshi and two crested geckos, Lucius and Iris.
You’re never too old to chase your dreams!
As a 'thank you' for all those who purchase his books, please contact him. He will add you to his email list and give you access to bonus deleted scenes from Relentless Blades and a draft sample chapter from Ashbound Oaths.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 11, 2026
Ashbound Oaths by Russell Carroll is the sequel to Relentless Blades and the middle book in the trilogy. This is usually a difficult spot because the middle book makes or breaks a trilogy's legacy. It could easily have been The Last Jedi instead of The Empire Strikes Back. I can say firmly and with confidence that this book succeeds as a second book in a trilogy. It is indeed an Empire Strikes Back style book.
It reminds me of Warcraft, Dragonlance, and Forgotten Realms. The writing style is similar to that of Richard A. Knaak, R. A. Salvatore, Tracy Hickman, and Margaret Weis. Russell's strength as a writer is action sequences, which is actually difficult to do well. In Ashbound Oaths the action feels more cinematic than in the first book. I didn't picture Grim and Vig rolling for initiative as they enter combat with some fierce terror.
I really enjoyed Relentless Blades. It read as an action-packed fantasy novel. I'm not saying it wasn't special or exciting, but it reminded me a lot of things I was already familiar with. Yes, it reminded me of Warcraft and Dungeons and Dragons a lot, but it was still entertaining and unique in its own right. It was executed well, which is why I gave it 5 stars. This book was different though. Yes, it still kept those previous ideas, but the action felt more cinematic and the story carried more emotional weight.
Rhorghast has a well-written arc. He is unmistakably a villain, but one that is interesting. In this genre there is no shortage of objective villains. Characters that are just bad or evil because they're bad or evil. You want them to fail and you don't care if they die. They're the bad guys, a narrative device used to introduce conflict. Rhorghast is not that simple. You actually invest in him as the reader, not because you want him to succeed, but because you just want to see what happens with him. It's pure entertainment, something I think both readers and writers take for granted lately.
This is an excellent novel, probably the best self-published fantasy fiction I’ve read so far. Everything about it feels professional. Yes, Russell and I are friends. I see him as a peer or colleague, but we’re both bluntly honest with each other. Relentless Blades was good, but it didn’t change my life or stick with me as long. Ashbound Oaths, however, is a book that I think will linger in my mind for quite a while. It’s a great follow-up to his debut.
I can’t say enough about how professional this book is. As a fellow self-published author, I find it inspiring. It serves as a reminder, to me and hopefully to others, of how important a professional editor and cover designer are, even for indie authors.
This book could easily be mistaken for a traditionally published novel if you found it on the shelves of a Barnes & Noble fantasy section. You might be browsing for the next Dragonlance novel, spot this on a nearby shelf, and be drawn in because it harkens back to the simpler, yet better, days of high fantasy storytelling.
Do yourself a favor and read this book. Even if you’re not a fan of the genre, it’s worth picking up if you want to see what peak indie self-publishing can look like. It demonstrates the potential indie authors have today. You may not fully connect with the story, but even if you don’t find it to be the most entertaining book ever, I think you’ll respect it for the craftsmanship and might even champion it for what it represents in the indie author community.
It reminds me of Warcraft, Dragonlance, and Forgotten Realms. The writing style is similar to that of Richard A. Knaak, R. A. Salvatore, Tracy Hickman, and Margaret Weis. Russell's strength as a writer is action sequences, which is actually difficult to do well. In Ashbound Oaths the action feels more cinematic than in the first book. I didn't picture Grim and Vig rolling for initiative as they enter combat with some fierce terror.
I really enjoyed Relentless Blades. It read as an action-packed fantasy novel. I'm not saying it wasn't special or exciting, but it reminded me a lot of things I was already familiar with. Yes, it reminded me of Warcraft and Dungeons and Dragons a lot, but it was still entertaining and unique in its own right. It was executed well, which is why I gave it 5 stars. This book was different though. Yes, it still kept those previous ideas, but the action felt more cinematic and the story carried more emotional weight.
Rhorghast has a well-written arc. He is unmistakably a villain, but one that is interesting. In this genre there is no shortage of objective villains. Characters that are just bad or evil because they're bad or evil. You want them to fail and you don't care if they die. They're the bad guys, a narrative device used to introduce conflict. Rhorghast is not that simple. You actually invest in him as the reader, not because you want him to succeed, but because you just want to see what happens with him. It's pure entertainment, something I think both readers and writers take for granted lately.
This is an excellent novel, probably the best self-published fantasy fiction I’ve read so far. Everything about it feels professional. Yes, Russell and I are friends. I see him as a peer or colleague, but we’re both bluntly honest with each other. Relentless Blades was good, but it didn’t change my life or stick with me as long. Ashbound Oaths, however, is a book that I think will linger in my mind for quite a while. It’s a great follow-up to his debut.
I can’t say enough about how professional this book is. As a fellow self-published author, I find it inspiring. It serves as a reminder, to me and hopefully to others, of how important a professional editor and cover designer are, even for indie authors.
This book could easily be mistaken for a traditionally published novel if you found it on the shelves of a Barnes & Noble fantasy section. You might be browsing for the next Dragonlance novel, spot this on a nearby shelf, and be drawn in because it harkens back to the simpler, yet better, days of high fantasy storytelling.
Do yourself a favor and read this book. Even if you’re not a fan of the genre, it’s worth picking up if you want to see what peak indie self-publishing can look like. It demonstrates the potential indie authors have today. You may not fully connect with the story, but even if you don’t find it to be the most entertaining book ever, I think you’ll respect it for the craftsmanship and might even champion it for what it represents in the indie author community.
November 24, 2025
Russell is telling the kind of stories that I genuinely want to see more of in this world - the kind of story that I think can get boys and men to want to read again.
This is the sequel to his book "Relentless Blades" and it builds on the world beautifully, answering some questions I had at the end of the first book, but leaving unanswered many more that certainly leave me eager for the follow-up.
As the cover certainly implies this is a book packed with action. Visceral and well drawn battles and fight sequences that move you right along without feeling draw out or repetitive. The stakes feel real for the characters, and the villains are a genuine threat, but its all built on a scaffolding of character work and world building that actually makes you care about the outcomes.
As a reader I tend to be allergic to the perfect do-no-wrong kind of heroes, and Russell lets his characters have real flaws, relapses, and shortcomings. I appreciate that, because while in the context of an epic myth told in 15 minutes around a campfire "perfection" may work, if I am going to spend some time with the characters, I want them to feel real, and as an imperfect human myself raising imperfect children, it is important to me that we understand one can still be the good guy, even if we make mistakes, fail sometimes, or are carrying around and stuffing new things into our own baggage. In this story each of our main characters are wrestling with something internally (some more literally so) as much as they are dealing with the conflicts outside.
But no, the story does not get bogged down with drama or conflict for the sake of conflict, it's always moving forward with a primary focus on the world ending stakes. It felt to me like it moved much faster than the first book, though I think the greater number of POV's and less time needed for world setup certainly helps in that regard.
I want to call out another thing Russell did in this book that is interesting or unique to me. We get to spend some time in the villains head as a POV character - even building a little sympathy for him in some ways. I thought that was fun, not only as a device to get us a clear picture of what all is happening on the other side of the fence while the heroes are celebrating victories, but also as an important part of the story unfolding. Rhorghast is delightfully repulsive but also compelling, and of the baddies I was rooting for him to show them he's not just a screw-up.
This gets my to the ending. The last section of the book is pulse pounding for sure but this middle book leaves open many more threads then it's predecessor did putting me into the "write Russell, write" camp wanting to see what happens next.
This is the sequel to his book "Relentless Blades" and it builds on the world beautifully, answering some questions I had at the end of the first book, but leaving unanswered many more that certainly leave me eager for the follow-up.
As the cover certainly implies this is a book packed with action. Visceral and well drawn battles and fight sequences that move you right along without feeling draw out or repetitive. The stakes feel real for the characters, and the villains are a genuine threat, but its all built on a scaffolding of character work and world building that actually makes you care about the outcomes.
As a reader I tend to be allergic to the perfect do-no-wrong kind of heroes, and Russell lets his characters have real flaws, relapses, and shortcomings. I appreciate that, because while in the context of an epic myth told in 15 minutes around a campfire "perfection" may work, if I am going to spend some time with the characters, I want them to feel real, and as an imperfect human myself raising imperfect children, it is important to me that we understand one can still be the good guy, even if we make mistakes, fail sometimes, or are carrying around and stuffing new things into our own baggage. In this story each of our main characters are wrestling with something internally (some more literally so) as much as they are dealing with the conflicts outside.
But no, the story does not get bogged down with drama or conflict for the sake of conflict, it's always moving forward with a primary focus on the world ending stakes. It felt to me like it moved much faster than the first book, though I think the greater number of POV's and less time needed for world setup certainly helps in that regard.
I want to call out another thing Russell did in this book that is interesting or unique to me. We get to spend some time in the villains head as a POV character - even building a little sympathy for him in some ways. I thought that was fun, not only as a device to get us a clear picture of what all is happening on the other side of the fence while the heroes are celebrating victories, but also as an important part of the story unfolding. Rhorghast is delightfully repulsive but also compelling, and of the baddies I was rooting for him to show them he's not just a screw-up.
This gets my to the ending. The last section of the book is pulse pounding for sure but this middle book leaves open many more threads then it's predecessor did putting me into the "write Russell, write" camp wanting to see what happens next.
December 30, 2025
Carroll delivers a disciplined, high-impact story with Ashbound Oaths, and the control on the page is what makes it a clear 5-star read. The narrative keeps its focus tight even as the stakes widen, favoring clarity of action and motivation over noise. The result is a book that feels intentional in both pace and structure, with no sense of drift.
A standout sequence comes when Everleigh and her small band attempt to cross the wyrm‑scarred valley under cover of ashfall, the sky alive with distant fire while the ground itself is never fully safe. The tension in that scene comes less from spectacle than from the personalities involved: terse decisions, unspoken fears, and the way prior choices echo in every step they take. It showcases Carroll’s ability to balance measured interiority with clean, readable action.
Throughout, the cast remains believably flawed yet consistently compelling, and the story threads move toward convergence with a calm sort of inevitability rather than melodrama. The tone is steady, the emotional beats land without being forced, and the worldbuilding does its job without demanding applause. Ashbound Oaths is the kind of book that leaves a quiet afterimage—assured, controlled, and fully worth the time.
A standout sequence comes when Everleigh and her small band attempt to cross the wyrm‑scarred valley under cover of ashfall, the sky alive with distant fire while the ground itself is never fully safe. The tension in that scene comes less from spectacle than from the personalities involved: terse decisions, unspoken fears, and the way prior choices echo in every step they take. It showcases Carroll’s ability to balance measured interiority with clean, readable action.
Throughout, the cast remains believably flawed yet consistently compelling, and the story threads move toward convergence with a calm sort of inevitability rather than melodrama. The tone is steady, the emotional beats land without being forced, and the worldbuilding does its job without demanding applause. Ashbound Oaths is the kind of book that leaves a quiet afterimage—assured, controlled, and fully worth the time.
December 15, 2025
Ashbound Oaths picks up just a few months after the events of Relentless Blades and the story wastes no time pulling the reader back into its brutal, fast-paced world. In true fashion, Russell packs this book with relentless action and vividly described battles. The combat is visceral and intense, to the point that I found myself jotting down notes and ideas for my own battle scenes, inspired directly by his execution on the page.
What surprised me most, though, was Russell’s decision to step back just enough to give the characters room to breathe and struggle. That choice pays off. He delivers meaningful character arcs that explore the emotional and physical fallout from Relentless Blades. The depth added here strengthens the story rather than slowing it down.
Each major character gets their time in the spotlight: Grim, Vig, Everleigh, Alyndra, Fralic, and many others all wrestle with consequences, loss, growth, and resolve. These arcs add weight to every confrontation and make the stakes feel personal as well as epic.
Oh, and there are dragons.
If you enjoyed Relentless Blades, Ashbound Oaths expands the world and deepens its characters.
What surprised me most, though, was Russell’s decision to step back just enough to give the characters room to breathe and struggle. That choice pays off. He delivers meaningful character arcs that explore the emotional and physical fallout from Relentless Blades. The depth added here strengthens the story rather than slowing it down.
Each major character gets their time in the spotlight: Grim, Vig, Everleigh, Alyndra, Fralic, and many others all wrestle with consequences, loss, growth, and resolve. These arcs add weight to every confrontation and make the stakes feel personal as well as epic.
Oh, and there are dragons.
If you enjoyed Relentless Blades, Ashbound Oaths expands the world and deepens its characters.
November 6, 2025
I loved Russ's second book!
It does an epic job of continuing & building off the first book & I thoroughly enjoyed see the different characters additional growth, the twists and turns of the story line and the emotional roller coaster of old friends lost and the making of new friends.
The dragons & their abilities are terrifying 😳
I can't wait to see how our heroes bring them down despite the fact that they seem to be somewhat invincible. They do show some weaknesses but seem to be able to rally so I can't wait to see how the story ends.
Keep up the awesome work Russ 🙂
It does an epic job of continuing & building off the first book & I thoroughly enjoyed see the different characters additional growth, the twists and turns of the story line and the emotional roller coaster of old friends lost and the making of new friends.
The dragons & their abilities are terrifying 😳
I can't wait to see how our heroes bring them down despite the fact that they seem to be somewhat invincible. They do show some weaknesses but seem to be able to rally so I can't wait to see how the story ends.
Keep up the awesome work Russ 🙂
November 4, 2025
If you are a fan of spectacular worlds and epic fantasy, you need to read this book!
This story picks up where Relentless Blades left off and delves deeper into the lives of our flawed heroes and villains. It's a fun read with action, heart, where you are always rooting for good to triumph over evil.
Russell Carroll does not disappoint and left me wanting more!
This story picks up where Relentless Blades left off and delves deeper into the lives of our flawed heroes and villains. It's a fun read with action, heart, where you are always rooting for good to triumph over evil.
Russell Carroll does not disappoint and left me wanting more!
November 22, 2025
I really enjoyed this and thought it was a great follow up to Relentless Blade! The story was very well written and it had me engaged from start to finish. The dragons were also incredible and I loved seeing their powers in action throughout the story. it was an epic and exciting read that left me eagerly waiting book 3.
November 22, 2025
I really enjoyed the first book, Relentless Blades, so when I had the chance to read this sequel I couldn't resist.
I don’t want to leave any spoilers, but it follows on almost immediately from the first book and let’s just say count the eggs 😂.
This author opened my eyes to the fun to be had with Dungeons and Dragons and I hope he keeps going because he weaves such great stories. If you love fantasy with a splash of humour and plenty of action I recommend you read this series.
I don’t want to leave any spoilers, but it follows on almost immediately from the first book and let’s just say count the eggs 😂.
This author opened my eyes to the fun to be had with Dungeons and Dragons and I hope he keeps going because he weaves such great stories. If you love fantasy with a splash of humour and plenty of action I recommend you read this series.
November 8, 2025
This was a super solid follow up to the first novel and in my opinion built on the existing world wonderfully. As always with Russell’s writing, the action shined as one of the high points. I was really compelled by Ev’s struggles with her religion and the deep themes Russell hit within her storyline. Rhorghast’s arc was super cool and gave me Khorne from Warhammer vibes. If you liked the first book I believe you’ll love this one.
February 6, 2026
“The challenge for Ashbound Oaths was to expand the world and the characters, while maintaining that D&D-inspired theme of small bands of adventurers taking on immense challenges with major implications.”
—R. Carroll, author of Volume II of The Prophecies of Zarune.
Following up a solid debut with a strong sequel is always a tough challenge. A writer must make sure that something fresh is brought forth while preserving the essence of what made the first book appealing. Ashbound Oaths - though maintaining a lot of the original fun and entertaining traits, presents a few issues that bring the overall quality down a notch. At just over 400 pages, this book could have been cut by a half and made it more effective in its delivery. It still remains a fun D&D style, action-packed epic fantasy that I would highly recommend, particularly to younger readers who are just now finding out about the wonderful world of fiction literature.
PLOT
One of the highlights of the book is its plot, which is rich enough in subplots to have kept me engaged beginning to end. As Russell shared with your Strange Girl:
“I set out to challenge myself in several ways. First, by expanding the various points of view. This book offers perspectives of not only Vig and Grim, but also Everleigh, Alyndra, Fralic and even Rhorghast.”
We learn that four of the original dragons the vragoths tried to bring to life are still alive. Our original villain from book 1, Rhorghast, will try to take advantage of their destructive powers to enforce vragoth domination upon the other kingdoms.
Meanwhile, our group of main characters, though received by their people as national heroes, find themselves dealing each with their own individual struggles.
TEAM RHORGHAST
One of the main villains deserves special attention and he, in fact, single-handedly stole the show, for lack of better terms.
After coming back home a defeated general in the eyes of his king and his people (read book 1) Rhorghast is punished, tortured, and nearly killed, while being mocked by some of his own peers, even. But the knowledge of the four live dragons suddenly offers him a second chance, which he skillfully takes advantage of.
Though Rhorghast’s nature remains that of a villain, he is the one to draw my attention and - why not - even the one I ended up rooting for. We all love second chances, and instinctively we tend to feel drawn to characters who go through pain and mockery for coming out the other side on top, by sheer grit and determination.
PROSE
Prose was choppy at times, as if the author wanted to write lines that sounded overly poetic but totally missed the mark:
“Shame threatened to drown him with its icy pull, but he countered it with blazing fury.” (page 7)
Followed by:
“Fear, which had only been a tingle, now crashed over Rhorghast in a wave meant to drown him.” (page 10)
Shame means to drown him. Fear means to drown him. Would love, anger, doubt, joy mean to drown him too? It's repetitive and feels as though the author was so excited about this ‘drowning’ metaphor he got overzealous with its application.
This is D&D, it's ok to simply write that the character felt shame and fear. Quick and concise.
ISSUES
*Emotional info dumps - Other reviewers have praised this book for showcasing a cast that remains believably flawed yet consistently compelling, but what these reviewers failed to point out is that this is done by way of tedious emotional info dumps. There is no subtext, there is no invitation to engage with the narrative, everything is spelled out as if the author didn't fully trust his readers. Russell said that the book “will appeal to any fans of dark, but epic fantasy.” If this book is in fact not meant solely for young children there is no reason to spell everything out by way of these emotional info dumps.
A couple of examples:
“Although he was right about the commandments, she wanted to protest simply because of his boorish behavior. A few months ago, she would have agreed wholeheartedly, but now she questioned the edict’s merit.” (page 76)
“The prospect of living long enough to raise children was dim, so long as he was indebted to Henshawe.” (page 118)
This leads also to unnecessary bloating which for me was the most obvious issue.
*Show, then tell - the author will show the events of a scene but then takes it upon himself to explain what we just read:
“Your skin. It changed from custard to violet. You are sweet on Grim.” Alyndra’s skin tingled and her heart thumped in her chest. Everleigh was right. She never would have imagined being attracted to a half- skron warrior, but Grim’s kindness won her heart. An ear- to- ear grin creased her face. “All right, I admit it.” (page 273)
We don't need the narrator to tell us that Everleigh was right, we can clearly see it in Alyndra’s reaction and she even admits it! I wanted to yell at this point, but I chose too munch on one more danish cookie instead!
*Unnecessary scenes - I'm particularly referring to the scene where Vig, Grim, and Fralic head to the tavern and bump into the tavern's harlots (chapter 5.) Totally unnecessary, did not do anything for the characters or the plot. Just bloat.
The other scene is Grim’s flashback of his time sparring with his mentor Tevarious (chapter 40.) Again, completely unnecessary and this one took up almost 6 pages!
*Inconclusive closing of the arc - Basically the way the book ends (after 400+ pages!) feels like a mild cliffhanger whereas nothing really memorable gets accomplished. According to Russell, “It does not have the same clean ending as Relentless Blades. It’s very much a middle-book that answers a lot of questions, but poses many more. I’m hoping this will leave readers eager for the trilogy finale which I’m hard at work on.”
The facts remain the following, by the time we turn to the last page, nothing gets resolved.
I get that sometimes it's hard to find where exactly to cut a volume before going into the next volume, and if this was a 150-page read I wouldn't think of it much. But we had over 400 pages to get to this particular point and I felt kinda let down that in the end so little got accomplished.
CONCLUSIONS
Ashbound Oaths is a fun, action-packed D&D style story that despite its several flaws possesses enough redeeming qualities. If I had a younger brother I would totally have him read this. It's a great pick for beginners who are just being introduced to fiction. More advanced fantasy readers may feel annoyed by inconsistent prose, emotional info dump, show then tell, and unnecessary scenes found throughout the book.
Overall I enjoyed it and hope Rhorghast will wipe them all out in the next book!
💜
—R. Carroll, author of Volume II of The Prophecies of Zarune.
Following up a solid debut with a strong sequel is always a tough challenge. A writer must make sure that something fresh is brought forth while preserving the essence of what made the first book appealing. Ashbound Oaths - though maintaining a lot of the original fun and entertaining traits, presents a few issues that bring the overall quality down a notch. At just over 400 pages, this book could have been cut by a half and made it more effective in its delivery. It still remains a fun D&D style, action-packed epic fantasy that I would highly recommend, particularly to younger readers who are just now finding out about the wonderful world of fiction literature.
PLOT
One of the highlights of the book is its plot, which is rich enough in subplots to have kept me engaged beginning to end. As Russell shared with your Strange Girl:
“I set out to challenge myself in several ways. First, by expanding the various points of view. This book offers perspectives of not only Vig and Grim, but also Everleigh, Alyndra, Fralic and even Rhorghast.”
We learn that four of the original dragons the vragoths tried to bring to life are still alive. Our original villain from book 1, Rhorghast, will try to take advantage of their destructive powers to enforce vragoth domination upon the other kingdoms.
Meanwhile, our group of main characters, though received by their people as national heroes, find themselves dealing each with their own individual struggles.
TEAM RHORGHAST
One of the main villains deserves special attention and he, in fact, single-handedly stole the show, for lack of better terms.
After coming back home a defeated general in the eyes of his king and his people (read book 1) Rhorghast is punished, tortured, and nearly killed, while being mocked by some of his own peers, even. But the knowledge of the four live dragons suddenly offers him a second chance, which he skillfully takes advantage of.
Though Rhorghast’s nature remains that of a villain, he is the one to draw my attention and - why not - even the one I ended up rooting for. We all love second chances, and instinctively we tend to feel drawn to characters who go through pain and mockery for coming out the other side on top, by sheer grit and determination.
PROSE
Prose was choppy at times, as if the author wanted to write lines that sounded overly poetic but totally missed the mark:
“Shame threatened to drown him with its icy pull, but he countered it with blazing fury.” (page 7)
Followed by:
“Fear, which had only been a tingle, now crashed over Rhorghast in a wave meant to drown him.” (page 10)
Shame means to drown him. Fear means to drown him. Would love, anger, doubt, joy mean to drown him too? It's repetitive and feels as though the author was so excited about this ‘drowning’ metaphor he got overzealous with its application.
This is D&D, it's ok to simply write that the character felt shame and fear. Quick and concise.
ISSUES
*Emotional info dumps - Other reviewers have praised this book for showcasing a cast that remains believably flawed yet consistently compelling, but what these reviewers failed to point out is that this is done by way of tedious emotional info dumps. There is no subtext, there is no invitation to engage with the narrative, everything is spelled out as if the author didn't fully trust his readers. Russell said that the book “will appeal to any fans of dark, but epic fantasy.” If this book is in fact not meant solely for young children there is no reason to spell everything out by way of these emotional info dumps.
A couple of examples:
“Although he was right about the commandments, she wanted to protest simply because of his boorish behavior. A few months ago, she would have agreed wholeheartedly, but now she questioned the edict’s merit.” (page 76)
“The prospect of living long enough to raise children was dim, so long as he was indebted to Henshawe.” (page 118)
This leads also to unnecessary bloating which for me was the most obvious issue.
*Show, then tell - the author will show the events of a scene but then takes it upon himself to explain what we just read:
“Your skin. It changed from custard to violet. You are sweet on Grim.” Alyndra’s skin tingled and her heart thumped in her chest. Everleigh was right. She never would have imagined being attracted to a half- skron warrior, but Grim’s kindness won her heart. An ear- to- ear grin creased her face. “All right, I admit it.” (page 273)
We don't need the narrator to tell us that Everleigh was right, we can clearly see it in Alyndra’s reaction and she even admits it! I wanted to yell at this point, but I chose too munch on one more danish cookie instead!
*Unnecessary scenes - I'm particularly referring to the scene where Vig, Grim, and Fralic head to the tavern and bump into the tavern's harlots (chapter 5.) Totally unnecessary, did not do anything for the characters or the plot. Just bloat.
The other scene is Grim’s flashback of his time sparring with his mentor Tevarious (chapter 40.) Again, completely unnecessary and this one took up almost 6 pages!
*Inconclusive closing of the arc - Basically the way the book ends (after 400+ pages!) feels like a mild cliffhanger whereas nothing really memorable gets accomplished. According to Russell, “It does not have the same clean ending as Relentless Blades. It’s very much a middle-book that answers a lot of questions, but poses many more. I’m hoping this will leave readers eager for the trilogy finale which I’m hard at work on.”
The facts remain the following, by the time we turn to the last page, nothing gets resolved.
I get that sometimes it's hard to find where exactly to cut a volume before going into the next volume, and if this was a 150-page read I wouldn't think of it much. But we had over 400 pages to get to this particular point and I felt kinda let down that in the end so little got accomplished.
CONCLUSIONS
Ashbound Oaths is a fun, action-packed D&D style story that despite its several flaws possesses enough redeeming qualities. If I had a younger brother I would totally have him read this. It's a great pick for beginners who are just being introduced to fiction. More advanced fantasy readers may feel annoyed by inconsistent prose, emotional info dump, show then tell, and unnecessary scenes found throughout the book.
Overall I enjoyed it and hope Rhorghast will wipe them all out in the next book!
💜
November 24, 2025
I had originally received this book as an ARC copy but did not leave a review as it had not been released. Once it was released I felt I had to re-read it to see what had changed, as well as to refresh my memory. The tl-dr is conflicted characters fight alot. If you like this sort of thing, pick it up, read it and enjoy.
But, First things first.
I appreciate that Carroll put some serious effort into the cover, while we all say we don't judge a book by it's cover, we also all lie that we don't judge a book by it's cover. This is one that at a minimum, people are going to pick up out of sheer curiosity, I can't not mention that especially in light of the glut of rather lack-luster covers the indie community puts out due to cost-cutting.
Beyond the cover, the story follows much the same as the first book in the series, and honestly, one could read this as a stand-alone and pick up enough that you're not completely lost. The plot is linear and simple. Not simple in the terms simplistic, but rather easy to follow compared to many of the books now that almost try to exchange confusion for depth. We have largely good characters, largely bad characters, all of which have conflicting desires and motivations. Some fighting for their right to control, others fighting for their right to refrain from being controlled. We don't get bogged down in histories, traditions, religions and cultures. Every page has the plot moving forward in a way that I found was an improvement from the first book.
I felt there was a little less action and carnage, but in a way that doesn't detract from one looking for that sort of thing. This pulling back permits a bit of breathing room for the characters to develop their personality and relationships.
Carroll is rather imaginative regarding the variety of creatures in his world, and utilizes their unique traits in many of the battle sequences rather than simply making them different for sake of uniqueness. As well, we don't have flat characters, something I cannot stand in literature. The diversity of the characters is unique enough as not to confuse the motivations and desires between the groups, yet not in a caricaturized manner that makes them unrelatable.
Naturally I have my issues with the story as there do feel like a number of areas Carroll resorts to a bit of macguffin-ry in order to keep the plot moving; battles with creatures that have no foreshadowing or lasting impact other than to break up a party, or free up a character. There is a part where we have a sort of "It's dragon magic, don't ask questions" in order to not bog down the story. So all the parts that I take issue with, I understand the motivations behind them, it's not a matter of poor writing or ignorance, but rather a freedom within the artistic license permitted when one creates their own fantasy world. If you're going to buy 3-eyed 4-armed demon characters, you can suspend belief for a few other points as well. And while there is a bit of romance/emotion in the story it certainly doesn't take any main stage. One issue I did find was that there are parts where we are naturally supposed to emote with the characters, but due to the narrative weighted toward action and plot progression, they unfortunately hit rather flatly; I see this as a natural outcome of the way the book is told, but if you're reading this, I'm guessing you're not looking to get hit in the feels.
The last half of the book reads faster than the first, and will not end you with the happy feels as it sets up the next installment. And if Carroll doesn't bring back Vasati to give her serious screen time I'm going to rate bomb the hell out of the next book. Ok, maybe not, but I do feel as though Carroll is improving his style and while I can't say was invested in the characters of book 1, book 2 tempted me to look forward to book 3.
But, First things first.
I appreciate that Carroll put some serious effort into the cover, while we all say we don't judge a book by it's cover, we also all lie that we don't judge a book by it's cover. This is one that at a minimum, people are going to pick up out of sheer curiosity, I can't not mention that especially in light of the glut of rather lack-luster covers the indie community puts out due to cost-cutting.
Beyond the cover, the story follows much the same as the first book in the series, and honestly, one could read this as a stand-alone and pick up enough that you're not completely lost. The plot is linear and simple. Not simple in the terms simplistic, but rather easy to follow compared to many of the books now that almost try to exchange confusion for depth. We have largely good characters, largely bad characters, all of which have conflicting desires and motivations. Some fighting for their right to control, others fighting for their right to refrain from being controlled. We don't get bogged down in histories, traditions, religions and cultures. Every page has the plot moving forward in a way that I found was an improvement from the first book.
I felt there was a little less action and carnage, but in a way that doesn't detract from one looking for that sort of thing. This pulling back permits a bit of breathing room for the characters to develop their personality and relationships.
Carroll is rather imaginative regarding the variety of creatures in his world, and utilizes their unique traits in many of the battle sequences rather than simply making them different for sake of uniqueness. As well, we don't have flat characters, something I cannot stand in literature. The diversity of the characters is unique enough as not to confuse the motivations and desires between the groups, yet not in a caricaturized manner that makes them unrelatable.
Naturally I have my issues with the story as there do feel like a number of areas Carroll resorts to a bit of macguffin-ry in order to keep the plot moving; battles with creatures that have no foreshadowing or lasting impact other than to break up a party, or free up a character. There is a part where we have a sort of "It's dragon magic, don't ask questions" in order to not bog down the story. So all the parts that I take issue with, I understand the motivations behind them, it's not a matter of poor writing or ignorance, but rather a freedom within the artistic license permitted when one creates their own fantasy world. If you're going to buy 3-eyed 4-armed demon characters, you can suspend belief for a few other points as well. And while there is a bit of romance/emotion in the story it certainly doesn't take any main stage. One issue I did find was that there are parts where we are naturally supposed to emote with the characters, but due to the narrative weighted toward action and plot progression, they unfortunately hit rather flatly; I see this as a natural outcome of the way the book is told, but if you're reading this, I'm guessing you're not looking to get hit in the feels.
The last half of the book reads faster than the first, and will not end you with the happy feels as it sets up the next installment. And if Carroll doesn't bring back Vasati to give her serious screen time I'm going to rate bomb the hell out of the next book. Ok, maybe not, but I do feel as though Carroll is improving his style and while I can't say was invested in the characters of book 1, book 2 tempted me to look forward to book 3.
January 26, 2026
Reading Ashbound Oaths felt like slipping into a world that asked something of me as a reader, not in a heavy way, but in a way that made me pause and think about the weight we all carry, and how we choose to move through the parts of life that feel broken or uncertain. This book doesn’t just tell a story. It sits with you. What struck me most is how the characters feel bruised but not defeated. Each one is wrestling with who they’ve been and who they’re becoming, and it mirrors the way real people try to rise after being knocked down. Their struggles aren’t just plot points. They feel like echoes of the doubts, fears, and little hopes we all hold close.
The world itself is harsh and beautiful at the same time. There are moments where the danger spikes and the battles roar, and then the story surprises you with a quiet moment that feels almost tender. Those shifts made the whole experience feel more grounded, almost like the author wanted to remind us that even in the darkest places, there’s still something worth reaching for. What I appreciated most was how I found myself rooting for the characters not for what they were fighting, but for what they were trying to rebuild inside themselves. That’s rare, and it’s powerful.
By the time I finished, I felt like I had been on a journey that left me thinking about resilience, loyalty, and the way people grow through the storms they never wanted. Ashbound Oaths is the kind of book that lingers, not because it’s grimdark for the sake of being grim, but because it understands the beauty in struggle and the quiet strength that comes from choosing to keep going.
If you’re looking for something that hits both the heart and the imagination, this one is worth every page.
The world itself is harsh and beautiful at the same time. There are moments where the danger spikes and the battles roar, and then the story surprises you with a quiet moment that feels almost tender. Those shifts made the whole experience feel more grounded, almost like the author wanted to remind us that even in the darkest places, there’s still something worth reaching for. What I appreciated most was how I found myself rooting for the characters not for what they were fighting, but for what they were trying to rebuild inside themselves. That’s rare, and it’s powerful.
By the time I finished, I felt like I had been on a journey that left me thinking about resilience, loyalty, and the way people grow through the storms they never wanted. Ashbound Oaths is the kind of book that lingers, not because it’s grimdark for the sake of being grim, but because it understands the beauty in struggle and the quiet strength that comes from choosing to keep going.
If you’re looking for something that hits both the heart and the imagination, this one is worth every page.
November 7, 2025
Ashbound Oaths by Russell Carroll
The heroes of Zarune thought their war was over, their victory earned, but the true battle lies within...
This is book 2 in what so far has been quite an epic triology. We follow our band of characters from book 1 as the world wasn't perhaps quite so easily saved as they hoped. The author has a fast paced, down-to-earth writing style. I'm especially enjoying imagining all the different fantasy races the author describes! This one didn't have quite the same easy trajectory as book 1; it had a middle book feel, leading up to a climax but with no real resolution (yet). Guess we need book 3 pretty quick! Normally I read a lot of fantasy romance so this is a bit of departure from my norm, but one I'm happy to make!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book 2 in the Zarune trilogy (must be read in order)
ARC (will be published Nov 18, all opinions are my own)
Genre: Epic fantasy
Favorite character: Grimlock (half skron, half human)
Favorite scene: the weretown
Content: Brief adult language, one mention of an LGBT couple
The heroes of Zarune thought their war was over, their victory earned, but the true battle lies within...
This is book 2 in what so far has been quite an epic triology. We follow our band of characters from book 1 as the world wasn't perhaps quite so easily saved as they hoped. The author has a fast paced, down-to-earth writing style. I'm especially enjoying imagining all the different fantasy races the author describes! This one didn't have quite the same easy trajectory as book 1; it had a middle book feel, leading up to a climax but with no real resolution (yet). Guess we need book 3 pretty quick! Normally I read a lot of fantasy romance so this is a bit of departure from my norm, but one I'm happy to make!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book 2 in the Zarune trilogy (must be read in order)
ARC (will be published Nov 18, all opinions are my own)
Genre: Epic fantasy
Favorite character: Grimlock (half skron, half human)
Favorite scene: the weretown
Content: Brief adult language, one mention of an LGBT couple
November 24, 2025
Ashbound Oaths the second book of Russell Carroll's was so full of adventure and action. if you like epic fantasy or love Dungeons and Dragons this book is a must read for sure. I love how the story picks right up after the first book Relentless Blades. you get to discover more world building and more about the characters and the twist and turns. I loved that there are dragons in this book and you get to learn about their abilities. Amazing work!!!
October 26, 2025
🔥ASHBOUND OATHS👏👏👏
Russell Carroll is killing it!
The sequel to—RELENTLESS BLADES
It picks right back up in the action
& doesn't miss a single beat!
There's so much going on here, & so well done! I don't want to spoil anything, but this is a fan favorite!
Russell Carroll is killing it!
The sequel to—RELENTLESS BLADES
It picks right back up in the action
& doesn't miss a single beat!
There's so much going on here, & so well done! I don't want to spoil anything, but this is a fan favorite!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews