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The Oracle & The Remnant
In a world where magic is reserved only for women, The Oracle & The Remnant follows Lilith, a young woman whose magic awakens unexpectedly, branding her an abomination in the eyes of her devout and ambitious father. When he arranges her marriage to a man who promises to "cleanse" her, Lilith escapes and seeks refuge at Katafiyo—a temple where Oracles are trained to bestow their power to supplicants. But the zealot Vaasgue is gathering influence in the city, determined to eradicate the Oracles and strip magic from women forever, gifting it to men instead. As the literal and existential threat looms, Lilith must decide if she will continue to give away her power or stand in her ownership of it—knowing that only by embracing her magic can she face the man who would see her, and all women like her, destroyed.
But the most dangerous choice of all?
To awaken. To rise. To fight back.
But the most dangerous choice of all?
To awaken. To rise. To fight back.
376 pages, Hardcover
Published May 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 16, 2026
DNF @29%
Sex based magic ... With strangers.
Let me start by saying that The Oracle & The Remnant isn't a bad book. The writing is poetically beautiful. Even though I read femdom erotica at least once a month for ✨ mental health ✨ purposes, I always appreciate writers who can write spicy scenes without making them overly vulgar, and this author definitely can.
My problem with The Oracle & The Remnant actually started in chapter one, and maybe that should've been the sign that I needed to back out immediately. It tells the story of a girl who receives magic from a goddess and has to "activate" it ... Through sex. Yes. Magic makes her horny 🙂 And who does she choose? A man who works for her father and whom she has barely spoken to.
That's it. That's the whole point of chapter one. I'm sorry, but how am I supposed to connect with these characters when I barely know them and they're already getting intimate????
And then it continues. Another character's backstory begins with, guess what? Sex again 👁️👄👁️ I??? Don't??? Understand??? And it wasn't even loving or sweet sex. It was abuse by her husband, y'all!!!
I tried to give this book the benefit of the doubt because surely it wasn't just about sex, right? RIGHT??? I thought I was here for a story about female empowerment and feminine rage, about women fighting back against men and breaking the rules and blah blah blah. But no. Their initiation once again revolves around sex and how it can be used to channel their magic. And I was like, WHAT???
It basically felt like:
"So we're going to use our bodies to pleasure other people and help a city that doesn't give a fuck about us. You can please women too, but mostly the people coming here are men. Hehe. Enjoy!"
Except the author wraps all of this in lyrical prose.
Seriously, what kind of magic system is this???
For an FMC named LILITH—once again, LILITH—you'd expect her to be strong, rebellious, and rule breaking. Instead, Lilith is submissive to the point that I genuinely wondered if she had accidentally swapped names with her fiery little sister.
Lilith's first scene with her "supplicant" was the final nail in the coffin for me. I cringed so hard I could barely keep reading. They're talking about how powerful her magic is, while she does nothing but fucking with another stranger. It felt like she was working in a brothel???
And don't get me wrong: I've read books about sex workers and brothel owners, including a reverse Jack the Ripper story where the brothel owner had to deal with both men and a conservative town, and I thought that book was great. Solid five stars.
Believe me, I'm not a prude who's afraid of smut. I love smut. I love spice in my books. But combining feminine rage + female empowerment + strong FMCs with this particular magic system just didn't sit right with me. My face while reading that scene between Lilith and Reuben was basically: 😬😬😬
Never again.
I think I just discovered a new ick.
Thank you to the author for the free copy, but ughgggh I just can't finish this one.
Sex based magic ... With strangers.
Let me start by saying that The Oracle & The Remnant isn't a bad book. The writing is poetically beautiful. Even though I read femdom erotica at least once a month for ✨ mental health ✨ purposes, I always appreciate writers who can write spicy scenes without making them overly vulgar, and this author definitely can.
My problem with The Oracle & The Remnant actually started in chapter one, and maybe that should've been the sign that I needed to back out immediately. It tells the story of a girl who receives magic from a goddess and has to "activate" it ... Through sex. Yes. Magic makes her horny 🙂 And who does she choose? A man who works for her father and whom she has barely spoken to.
That's it. That's the whole point of chapter one. I'm sorry, but how am I supposed to connect with these characters when I barely know them and they're already getting intimate????
And then it continues. Another character's backstory begins with, guess what? Sex again 👁️👄👁️ I??? Don't??? Understand??? And it wasn't even loving or sweet sex. It was abuse by her husband, y'all!!!
I tried to give this book the benefit of the doubt because surely it wasn't just about sex, right? RIGHT??? I thought I was here for a story about female empowerment and feminine rage, about women fighting back against men and breaking the rules and blah blah blah. But no. Their initiation once again revolves around sex and how it can be used to channel their magic. And I was like, WHAT???
It basically felt like:
"So we're going to use our bodies to pleasure other people and help a city that doesn't give a fuck about us. You can please women too, but mostly the people coming here are men. Hehe. Enjoy!"
Except the author wraps all of this in lyrical prose.
Seriously, what kind of magic system is this???
For an FMC named LILITH—once again, LILITH—you'd expect her to be strong, rebellious, and rule breaking. Instead, Lilith is submissive to the point that I genuinely wondered if she had accidentally swapped names with her fiery little sister.
Lilith's first scene with her "supplicant" was the final nail in the coffin for me. I cringed so hard I could barely keep reading. They're talking about how powerful her magic is, while she does nothing but fucking with another stranger. It felt like she was working in a brothel???
And don't get me wrong: I've read books about sex workers and brothel owners, including a reverse Jack the Ripper story where the brothel owner had to deal with both men and a conservative town, and I thought that book was great. Solid five stars.
Believe me, I'm not a prude who's afraid of smut. I love smut. I love spice in my books. But combining feminine rage + female empowerment + strong FMCs with this particular magic system just didn't sit right with me. My face while reading that scene between Lilith and Reuben was basically: 😬😬😬
Never again.
I think I just discovered a new ick.
Thank you to the author for the free copy, but ughgggh I just can't finish this one.
April 19, 2026
ARC Review
3.5 ⭐️ This book will make you feel love, heart break and empowerment for finding one’s self. It is such a unique story and I’m sure most women can relate to aspects of this book at some point. If you’re looking for a book to bring you into a found family, this one is for you. I loved the relationships formed in this book and the support of the women.
However, I did often find the magic to be slightly confusing. I didn’t fully grasp what they were capable of and how their magic was expressed later into the story. It leaves some questions unanswered about some characters and how certain stories played out, but overall a great read!
3.5 ⭐️ This book will make you feel love, heart break and empowerment for finding one’s self. It is such a unique story and I’m sure most women can relate to aspects of this book at some point. If you’re looking for a book to bring you into a found family, this one is for you. I loved the relationships formed in this book and the support of the women.
However, I did often find the magic to be slightly confusing. I didn’t fully grasp what they were capable of and how their magic was expressed later into the story. It leaves some questions unanswered about some characters and how certain stories played out, but overall a great read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Some books tell a story, but Sarah creates a world. Oracle reins you in from the very beginning and weaves a story rich with imagery and emotion. She doesn’t just describes scenes, she paints a brilliant image in your mind. Her words are intentionally chosen like brushstrokes on a painting. It’s the kind of writing that makes you slow down to savor the content.
While the story is art, it is also strongly plot driven. The pacing is good, keeps the reader moving forward always anticipating what comes next. The tension and stakes build throughout the story and you feel personally invested in each character portrayed in the story. The villain is one of the strongest elements for me. She creates one so compelling and infuriating that every reader will want them to crash and burn. A great villain is what makes a story, and this one does exactly that. You don’t just hate them, you want them destroyed.
Oracle should be on everyone’s MUST read list. It’s a woven tapestry of storyline and stakes, plot and smut, beauty and heartbreak. It’s for every reader that enjoys fantasy, conflict, and found family/friendship. It’s the kind of story that lingers after the final page and leaves you with the emotions of a captivating piece of art.
While the story is art, it is also strongly plot driven. The pacing is good, keeps the reader moving forward always anticipating what comes next. The tension and stakes build throughout the story and you feel personally invested in each character portrayed in the story. The villain is one of the strongest elements for me. She creates one so compelling and infuriating that every reader will want them to crash and burn. A great villain is what makes a story, and this one does exactly that. You don’t just hate them, you want them destroyed.
Oracle should be on everyone’s MUST read list. It’s a woven tapestry of storyline and stakes, plot and smut, beauty and heartbreak. It’s for every reader that enjoys fantasy, conflict, and found family/friendship. It’s the kind of story that lingers after the final page and leaves you with the emotions of a captivating piece of art.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was such a pleasure to be an ARC reader for this book.
First off, can we talk about how stunning the cover artwork is?!?!? Everything about it invokes an emotion, love it! I can't wait for my physical copy so it can go on my bookshelf to be able to see everyday.
I have recently been reading reimagined Greek mythology by female writers and while this is not that, it gives the same feel in regards to showing how the role and importance of women in society are downplayed and often hated unless it can raise the status of men in power. While feminist in nature, this book is not a man hating tale, but a story of how women want the right to choose, a say in society, respect and also love and be loved in return.
I love the way the Oracles interact with each other and look out for one another. We all need that in our lives, people to stand beside us, support us and maybe most importantly, laugh with us.
When I was towards the end of the book, I told my husband it could go one of three general ways and I I loved the way it went.
Sarah, I need you to write a whole book on Lidia, she is my favorite character in the book!
Thank you for allowing me to be apart of this journey and I can't wait to see what you do next.
First off, can we talk about how stunning the cover artwork is?!?!? Everything about it invokes an emotion, love it! I can't wait for my physical copy so it can go on my bookshelf to be able to see everyday.
I have recently been reading reimagined Greek mythology by female writers and while this is not that, it gives the same feel in regards to showing how the role and importance of women in society are downplayed and often hated unless it can raise the status of men in power. While feminist in nature, this book is not a man hating tale, but a story of how women want the right to choose, a say in society, respect and also love and be loved in return.
I love the way the Oracles interact with each other and look out for one another. We all need that in our lives, people to stand beside us, support us and maybe most importantly, laugh with us.
When I was towards the end of the book, I told my husband it could go one of three general ways and I I loved the way it went.
Sarah, I need you to write a whole book on Lidia, she is my favorite character in the book!
Thank you for allowing me to be apart of this journey and I can't wait to see what you do next.
Read
May 11, 2026I was given a ARC for honest review purposes.
Solid, SOLID 4.5 ⭐️ A an absolute power anthem for women. The exploration of the bonds of sisterhood (both blood and not) was my favorite part of this book. The oracles share a profound love for each other and it’s written so beautifully.
The world is rich and reads as inspired by Mediterranean and Ancient Greek culture. Make sure to reference the GLOSSARY in the back for help with pronunciation of names and terms! Truly a delightful (and helpful) addition to any book.
The magic system is a little tricky to understand at first, and some might consider it a bit explicit and graphic. However it gains clarity by the end of the book and I actually liked trying to piece together how it all worked.
The ending is AMAZING and by the last quarter of the book, I was neglecting sleep and common sense to find out what happened next.
This book left me thinking for weeks afterward. Truly a beautiful debut and I’m excited to see what Sarah writes for us in the future.
Solid, SOLID 4.5 ⭐️ A an absolute power anthem for women. The exploration of the bonds of sisterhood (both blood and not) was my favorite part of this book. The oracles share a profound love for each other and it’s written so beautifully.
The world is rich and reads as inspired by Mediterranean and Ancient Greek culture. Make sure to reference the GLOSSARY in the back for help with pronunciation of names and terms! Truly a delightful (and helpful) addition to any book.
The magic system is a little tricky to understand at first, and some might consider it a bit explicit and graphic. However it gains clarity by the end of the book and I actually liked trying to piece together how it all worked.
The ending is AMAZING and by the last quarter of the book, I was neglecting sleep and common sense to find out what happened next.
This book left me thinking for weeks afterward. Truly a beautiful debut and I’m excited to see what Sarah writes for us in the future.
May 13, 2026
Enjoyable start to a new fantasy series
The Oracle & The Remnant pulled me in pretty quickly with its mix of fantasy, religion, and power dynamics. I really liked the concept of magic being reserved for women and how that shaped both the world and Lilith’s journey. She was easy to root for, especially as she tried to figure out who she wanted to be outside of the expectations forced onto her.
The atmosphere throughout the book felt immersive, and the conflict between the Oracles and the growing movement against them added a lot of tension. I also appreciated how the story handled themes of identity, control, and resilience without losing the emotional side of the characters.
Overall, this was a strong start to a fantasy series with memorable ideas, solid character development, and an ending that definitely made me interested in reading the next book.
Thank you to the author Sarah for the advanced copy, this is my honest review
The Oracle & The Remnant pulled me in pretty quickly with its mix of fantasy, religion, and power dynamics. I really liked the concept of magic being reserved for women and how that shaped both the world and Lilith’s journey. She was easy to root for, especially as she tried to figure out who she wanted to be outside of the expectations forced onto her.
The atmosphere throughout the book felt immersive, and the conflict between the Oracles and the growing movement against them added a lot of tension. I also appreciated how the story handled themes of identity, control, and resilience without losing the emotional side of the characters.
Overall, this was a strong start to a fantasy series with memorable ideas, solid character development, and an ending that definitely made me interested in reading the next book.
Thank you to the author Sarah for the advanced copy, this is my honest review
May 12, 2026
If you love disappearing into a world of magic, powerful female characters, and meaningful relationships between women- this book is for you. I loved reading about Lilith’s journey- Sarah’s writing style will capture and enthrall you for the entire story, and you’ll find yourself thinking about this world all day until you can finally steal away more time to read. I highly recommend this book for the women who love deeply, who have magic hidden inside them of their own, and who know they have a calling to empower their sisters and mothers and aunts and friends along their own journeys. Come explore the world of the Oracles and the divine magic that lives in all of us!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC READER
The Oracle & the Remnant was such a fun and immersive read. The world felt really vivid, and I got attached to the characters way faster than I expected. I loved the mix of magic, mystery, and emotional moments, especially the found-family vibes throughout the story. The writing was easy to sink into, and the pacing kept me wanting to read “just one more chapter.” If you like fantasy with strong female characters, a little romance, and lots of heart, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Ps. Vaasgue is the absolute worst. I hate him.
The Oracle & the Remnant was such a fun and immersive read. The world felt really vivid, and I got attached to the characters way faster than I expected. I loved the mix of magic, mystery, and emotional moments, especially the found-family vibes throughout the story. The writing was easy to sink into, and the pacing kept me wanting to read “just one more chapter.” If you like fantasy with strong female characters, a little romance, and lots of heart, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Ps. Vaasgue is the absolute worst. I hate him.
May 13, 2026
So to be Honest the Cover is Beautiful, Definitely got my Attention 💚 I really loved this book & really love the empowerment of women in this story!!! I felt like the book is really well written 👌 I couldn't stop reading!!! It's definitely a must recommend book!!!
Thank you so much Sarah Jane Michal for the ARC!!!
Thank you so much Sarah Jane Michal for the ARC!!!
May 16, 2026
I received this book as an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Initially it took me a second to get into it, but once I got into it I found it interesting and somewhat addictive. I just wanted to know what was happening and how it was going to play out. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author!
Initially it took me a second to get into it, but once I got into it I found it interesting and somewhat addictive. I just wanted to know what was happening and how it was going to play out. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author!
May 19, 2026
This is a stellar first novel from Sarah Jane Michal. The story is unique and interesting enough to keep you reading voraciously to the finish. Speaking of the finish - so satisfying! Without giving away spoilers, I can tell you the main character deals with a myriad of terrible and unjust circumstances both before she becomes an oracle and after. She remains steadfast and honorable throughout it all. I'll leave the antagonists for you to suss out yourself. I absolutely LOVED this book. Highly recommend! ENJOY!
Review of advance copy received from Author
One of the most profound and feminine divine books I have read in a long time. Have tissues ready at the end because you will need them. For sure will be rereading. Cannot wait to request my shelf trophy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Phew! I just finished this book and what a journey it was! Beautifully written, incredible world building, and the parallels to the real life experiences of women are painfully spot on. I can’t wait to read more from the temple of Katafiyo.
August 26, 2026
This book is for anyone who has felt powerless and controlled only to find the magic within, magnified by the magic within us all, could conquer and overcome all. After finishing this remarkable debut novel, I feel ready to take grasp hands with all my magical sisters and take on the patriarchy!
September 27, 2026
This was an interesting read and not my typical material, however, I enjoyed the empowerment of the fmc. Being raised inside toxic purity culture and having the world shame or gauge a woman’s worth on purity, this was a refreshing take on growing into your own power and taking that power back.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As an arc reader, I CANT wait for this book to be published. If the cover art is pulling you in - let it.
September 2, 2026
I absolutely loved this book, you could feel the heart that went into it! The author is amazing and the content she posts explaining the process and reasoning behind the book is top tier!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews