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Spellbound Murder #1
Oath Bound
A predator stalks the supernatural community.
Mira is a talented witch, but gained a reputation for delving into dark power in her youth. In order to help the police and keep the secret of their world, Mira once again finds herself using an enchantment with heavy karmic consequences.
Detective Ian Burke becomes saddled with “occult expert,” Mira Owens. He’s bound by a magical promise and dropped into a mysterious society that he never knew existed. He’s ready to fight like hell to break the spell and bring his partner, Gabriel, in on the secret.
Can Mira help find the killer and stop the murders without becoming the next victim, or worse, exposing her people?
Mira is a talented witch, but gained a reputation for delving into dark power in her youth. In order to help the police and keep the secret of their world, Mira once again finds herself using an enchantment with heavy karmic consequences.
Detective Ian Burke becomes saddled with “occult expert,” Mira Owens. He’s bound by a magical promise and dropped into a mysterious society that he never knew existed. He’s ready to fight like hell to break the spell and bring his partner, Gabriel, in on the secret.
Can Mira help find the killer and stop the murders without becoming the next victim, or worse, exposing her people?
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2018
233 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 6, 2018
My Thoughts
I am a sucker for urban fantasies. Those of us who plod through our daily lives with our heads down (dozing on a bus to work, preparing TPS reports in a cubical, gossiping over water coolers, doing endless loads of laundry, and feeding our whining kids another bowl of mac-n-cheese…) cannot help but be seduced by the idea that there’s more happening beneath the surface than we realize. There’s magic, people with strange and dangerous abilities, and drama on a cosmic scale.
It’s a concept that can shake us out of our stupor, make us look around for signs of something wonderful, and help us stave off the notion–at least for one more day–that this dreary reality is all there is. It reminds us that there is still room to make something new happen and that adventures may be just around the bend.
Or, is that just me? Gawd. I sound like a cheerful person, don’t I? Thank goodness I have some escapist literature to keep me from being a miserable lump!
The world revealed in Oathbound is full of every fantasy creature you can imagine: witches, vampires, werewolves, angels and muses. This is a world that challenges our notion of what makes a monster. Sure, the guy living in the mansion may have fangs and drink blood, but he helps organize community events and provides you with a place to stay when you’re homeless. Moreover, he’s not feral. He won’t bite you…probably. Compare him with the human landlord who harasses his tenants and threatens legal action because he wants to “bleed” people for every last cent to their name.
Who’s really the monster?
I like it when books make me re-evaluate concepts like this.
Oath Bound starts off slow, introducing characters, hinting at their backgrounds, providing a glimpse into a gathering of supernaturals, and describing the murders. The narrative has a detached air to it, which subdues the heightened emotions the characters must be feeling when faced with moral quandaries, possible romantic connections, and someone preying on their community . I’m perplexed why the beginning focuses on a family history instead of discovering the body of the latest murder victim, which would establish Mira’s grief and fear over the loss. Instead of hooking us with a shocking scene and strong emotions, we’re fed rather dry information.
The lack of emotional intensity and proper focus hamstring this book. As an example, Mira’s attention wavers between three extremely attractive men. Then, just as if someone snapped their fingers, she decides she’s romantically interested in one. Nothing happens to draw them together and their chemistry feels flat. Mira’s interactions with the male lead are transactional rather than emotional: he asks her to work some magic on his behalf and he provides her with a a concierge service. I don’t know about you, but I want a lot more from my lover than a business deal.
Secondly, Mira was supposedly close to one of the murder victims, but little is done to explore the contours of their relationship and the nature of her grief. Many times in the story, it’s easy to forget that Mira has lost anyone. Her friend seems like a hazy memory rather than a loved person lost recently.
Finally, it was unclear whether this book most wanted to be romance with a quest to save the world from occult forces or a mystery/thriller with supernatural characters. This lack of focus also sapped the book of some of its potential power. Personally, I think the most promise lies with Mira’s dealings with the detectives. They are an interesting duo who each resist Mira’s efforts in their own way. That being said, all of the characters have interesting backstories and if they were given a little more room to breathe and act out, they could all be easy to root for.
Oath Bound gains momentum at around the 70% mark, when Mira and Gabe are thrust into an alternate reality and must fight like hell to return to their own world. The frightening situation, revelations about each other’s abilities, and the tension between them bursts forth and makes this novel come to life. Up to this point, I felt lukewarm about Oath Bound. It hit many of the notes that I expected of an urban fantasy, but it didn’t excite me. The climax was different. It got my heart beating and gave me a taste of what powerful writing Amanda Booloodian was capable of. I hope the rest of her series dazzles us as much as this portion of the book.
Thank you to Amanda Booloodian for providing me with an ARC of her forthcoming novel. It was a pleasure to read.
For its release on August 7th, Oath Bound will be in a box set titled The Shadow Files. There will be 22 books in this set. My review is for Oath Bound only, not the entire set.
I am a sucker for urban fantasies. Those of us who plod through our daily lives with our heads down (dozing on a bus to work, preparing TPS reports in a cubical, gossiping over water coolers, doing endless loads of laundry, and feeding our whining kids another bowl of mac-n-cheese…) cannot help but be seduced by the idea that there’s more happening beneath the surface than we realize. There’s magic, people with strange and dangerous abilities, and drama on a cosmic scale.
It’s a concept that can shake us out of our stupor, make us look around for signs of something wonderful, and help us stave off the notion–at least for one more day–that this dreary reality is all there is. It reminds us that there is still room to make something new happen and that adventures may be just around the bend.
Or, is that just me? Gawd. I sound like a cheerful person, don’t I? Thank goodness I have some escapist literature to keep me from being a miserable lump!
The world revealed in Oathbound is full of every fantasy creature you can imagine: witches, vampires, werewolves, angels and muses. This is a world that challenges our notion of what makes a monster. Sure, the guy living in the mansion may have fangs and drink blood, but he helps organize community events and provides you with a place to stay when you’re homeless. Moreover, he’s not feral. He won’t bite you…probably. Compare him with the human landlord who harasses his tenants and threatens legal action because he wants to “bleed” people for every last cent to their name.
Who’s really the monster?
I like it when books make me re-evaluate concepts like this.
Oath Bound starts off slow, introducing characters, hinting at their backgrounds, providing a glimpse into a gathering of supernaturals, and describing the murders. The narrative has a detached air to it, which subdues the heightened emotions the characters must be feeling when faced with moral quandaries, possible romantic connections, and someone preying on their community . I’m perplexed why the beginning focuses on a family history instead of discovering the body of the latest murder victim, which would establish Mira’s grief and fear over the loss. Instead of hooking us with a shocking scene and strong emotions, we’re fed rather dry information.
The lack of emotional intensity and proper focus hamstring this book. As an example, Mira’s attention wavers between three extremely attractive men. Then, just as if someone snapped their fingers, she decides she’s romantically interested in one. Nothing happens to draw them together and their chemistry feels flat. Mira’s interactions with the male lead are transactional rather than emotional: he asks her to work some magic on his behalf and he provides her with a a concierge service. I don’t know about you, but I want a lot more from my lover than a business deal.
Secondly, Mira was supposedly close to one of the murder victims, but little is done to explore the contours of their relationship and the nature of her grief. Many times in the story, it’s easy to forget that Mira has lost anyone. Her friend seems like a hazy memory rather than a loved person lost recently.
Finally, it was unclear whether this book most wanted to be romance with a quest to save the world from occult forces or a mystery/thriller with supernatural characters. This lack of focus also sapped the book of some of its potential power. Personally, I think the most promise lies with Mira’s dealings with the detectives. They are an interesting duo who each resist Mira’s efforts in their own way. That being said, all of the characters have interesting backstories and if they were given a little more room to breathe and act out, they could all be easy to root for.
Oath Bound gains momentum at around the 70% mark, when Mira and Gabe are thrust into an alternate reality and must fight like hell to return to their own world. The frightening situation, revelations about each other’s abilities, and the tension between them bursts forth and makes this novel come to life. Up to this point, I felt lukewarm about Oath Bound. It hit many of the notes that I expected of an urban fantasy, but it didn’t excite me. The climax was different. It got my heart beating and gave me a taste of what powerful writing Amanda Booloodian was capable of. I hope the rest of her series dazzles us as much as this portion of the book.
Thank you to Amanda Booloodian for providing me with an ARC of her forthcoming novel. It was a pleasure to read.
For its release on August 7th, Oath Bound will be in a box set titled The Shadow Files. There will be 22 books in this set. My review is for Oath Bound only, not the entire set.
October 14, 2018
Hmm okay
I enjoyed it at the beginning, but the language was a bit clumsy. The writing style doesn’t compel me to read more by this author. It was just too juvenile, too simple, too basic. It felt a bit like the work of a beginner. Example-quote to show you what I mean:
“He was watching her.
Mira was struggling for what to say.”
There were lots of people to keep track of, maybe too many. At the start of the book the murder of Sally is already a month ago. Now there’s a new murder, but still, it’s different than a ‘normal’ murder mystery. In a not so good way. It’s like the story just starts somewhere. There’s mention of an addiction in the past, but no background is given at first, nothing at all. Not enough background means I didn’t get to know Mira, not really. It didn’t go deep; I wasn’t allowed inside. And I didn’t understand everything; some things were confusing.
Conclusion: I started out liking it, but the off-putting style started irritating me and I ended up not liking it. So on average: it was okay. A nice and interesting story-idea, but the execution could be better.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I received no remuneration for it.
I enjoyed it at the beginning, but the language was a bit clumsy. The writing style doesn’t compel me to read more by this author. It was just too juvenile, too simple, too basic. It felt a bit like the work of a beginner. Example-quote to show you what I mean:
“He was watching her.
Mira was struggling for what to say.”
There were lots of people to keep track of, maybe too many. At the start of the book the murder of Sally is already a month ago. Now there’s a new murder, but still, it’s different than a ‘normal’ murder mystery. In a not so good way. It’s like the story just starts somewhere. There’s mention of an addiction in the past, but no background is given at first, nothing at all. Not enough background means I didn’t get to know Mira, not really. It didn’t go deep; I wasn’t allowed inside. And I didn’t understand everything; some things were confusing.
Conclusion: I started out liking it, but the off-putting style started irritating me and I ended up not liking it. So on average: it was okay. A nice and interesting story-idea, but the execution could be better.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I received no remuneration for it.
August 8, 2018
Book name- Oath bound
Author- Amanda Booloodian
Series name- Spellbound murder series
*The author kindly provided an eARC in exchange for an honest review*
Review-
'Oath Bound' by Amanda Booloodian is a fantasy/fiction book. Mira's best friend, Sally, is murdered and a detective duo are in search of the culprit. While solving the murder case they come upon the reality of Mira and Sally,i.e, they are witches. How they struggle with the coven world and how they find out the culprit is what the series is all about.
The writing style is simply amazing. Some parts will get you curious while others will make you laugh hard. The characters are portrayed really well. Let it be the detective duo, Mira or Emmit(read to find who he is), they all catch your attention from beginning with their witty dialogues and great thinking. The story is medium paced but addictive. The magical coven world has been described really well and builds up your curiosity high.
If you like stories about witches, angels/demons or about covens then go ahead and read it. It's a new release and is definitely worth reading.
Cover- 3/5
Narration- 4.5/5
Characters- 4.5/5
Overall ratings- 5/5
Author- Amanda Booloodian
Series name- Spellbound murder series
*The author kindly provided an eARC in exchange for an honest review*
Review-
'Oath Bound' by Amanda Booloodian is a fantasy/fiction book. Mira's best friend, Sally, is murdered and a detective duo are in search of the culprit. While solving the murder case they come upon the reality of Mira and Sally,i.e, they are witches. How they struggle with the coven world and how they find out the culprit is what the series is all about.
The writing style is simply amazing. Some parts will get you curious while others will make you laugh hard. The characters are portrayed really well. Let it be the detective duo, Mira or Emmit(read to find who he is), they all catch your attention from beginning with their witty dialogues and great thinking. The story is medium paced but addictive. The magical coven world has been described really well and builds up your curiosity high.
If you like stories about witches, angels/demons or about covens then go ahead and read it. It's a new release and is definitely worth reading.
Cover- 3/5
Narration- 4.5/5
Characters- 4.5/5
Overall ratings- 5/5
April 6, 2020
Unfortunately this book just didn't work for me. I kept thinking it was getting better, but then it didn't. The premise sounded really interesting, and I was all for the witch-working-with-the-mundane-detective thing, but that barely even lasted half of the book.
Mira was not an interesting character at all. She had some bad history, which explains why she had previously worked with the police, but otherwise she is kind of bland and lacking in any drive. She seems completely unconcerned and oblivious about the fact that her landlord is actively trying to get her out of her store's lease that he doesn't like, and doesn't ever seem to make the connections she should be making - or being concerned about what they might actually mean if she does.
I hated Emmit, there was something seedy about him from the start, and Mira couldn't be bothered to really even question any of his actions or requests, she just did them because she was attracted to him. She barely knew the guy and yet was so quick to defend him in every aspect. It was irksome. And then his request of her gets her almost killed because he doesn't bother telling her why he needs it, and she doesn't seem to even care? He was too formal, stilted, and just not a likeable character at all.
Ian, I thought was more interesting, but he disappeared about halfway through the book and then Gabriel sort of took his place. At least he was somewhat interesting - he butted heads with Mira more and had his own mystery to contend with. But even then, maybe if he had been more involved from the beginning, rather than pushed aside as the "annoying" officer, then things might have been better.
The writing itself was only so-so. Chapters ended abruptly, often in the middle of scene, for no reason whatsoever, and Mira's thought processes were annoying redundant sometimes. The world-building was a little poor, with a lot of aspects of the supernatural community being explained through Mira's PC-explanations to Ian of what not to ask so as not to offend people. Everything felt vague but specific in that way that is frustrating - they're this but not always that, that but not always this. The magic Mira used was therefore sort of understandable but also sometimes seemed to be a little over-complicated. And for some reason I could not stand the fact that Mira had a business partner who had no name? She was mentioned like twenty or more times but always as "her partner". Just give her a damn name!!! Is it that hard? Is she that unimportant that she can't even have a name??
The plot could have been good but I think the mystery of the murders became lost to the whole Emmit/Ether thing, which took over completely and then suddenly the climax was introducing the reader to the murderer without much evidence to really give credence to it or explanation as to why. I'm sure there is supposed to be that explanation in the next book, since this book just sort of...ended kind of like the chapters did, at a point where it didn't really make much sense.
I think I expected this book to be one thing, and while it started that way, it become something else entirely and not in a good way. I didn't care for any of the characters, the romance was boring and made zero sense to me, and the writing made me frustrated one too many times. I think the world-building had promise, but could have been fleshed out a bit more, and the two plots needed to intersect just a bit more to really make everything work together and make sense.
1.5 stars
Mira was not an interesting character at all. She had some bad history, which explains why she had previously worked with the police, but otherwise she is kind of bland and lacking in any drive. She seems completely unconcerned and oblivious about the fact that her landlord is actively trying to get her out of her store's lease that he doesn't like, and doesn't ever seem to make the connections she should be making - or being concerned about what they might actually mean if she does.
I hated Emmit, there was something seedy about him from the start, and Mira couldn't be bothered to really even question any of his actions or requests, she just did them because she was attracted to him. She barely knew the guy and yet was so quick to defend him in every aspect. It was irksome. And then his request of her gets her almost killed because he doesn't bother telling her why he needs it, and she doesn't seem to even care? He was too formal, stilted, and just not a likeable character at all.
Ian, I thought was more interesting, but he disappeared about halfway through the book and then Gabriel sort of took his place. At least he was somewhat interesting - he butted heads with Mira more and had his own mystery to contend with. But even then, maybe if he had been more involved from the beginning, rather than pushed aside as the "annoying" officer, then things might have been better.
The writing itself was only so-so. Chapters ended abruptly, often in the middle of scene, for no reason whatsoever, and Mira's thought processes were annoying redundant sometimes. The world-building was a little poor, with a lot of aspects of the supernatural community being explained through Mira's PC-explanations to Ian of what not to ask so as not to offend people. Everything felt vague but specific in that way that is frustrating - they're this but not always that, that but not always this. The magic Mira used was therefore sort of understandable but also sometimes seemed to be a little over-complicated. And for some reason I could not stand the fact that Mira had a business partner who had no name? She was mentioned like twenty or more times but always as "her partner". Just give her a damn name!!! Is it that hard? Is she that unimportant that she can't even have a name??
The plot could have been good but I think the mystery of the murders became lost to the whole Emmit/Ether thing, which took over completely and then suddenly the climax was introducing the reader to the murderer without much evidence to really give credence to it or explanation as to why. I'm sure there is supposed to be that explanation in the next book, since this book just sort of...ended kind of like the chapters did, at a point where it didn't really make much sense.
I think I expected this book to be one thing, and while it started that way, it become something else entirely and not in a good way. I didn't care for any of the characters, the romance was boring and made zero sense to me, and the writing made me frustrated one too many times. I think the world-building had promise, but could have been fleshed out a bit more, and the two plots needed to intersect just a bit more to really make everything work together and make sense.
1.5 stars
July 20, 2018
I am pleasantly surprised by this book and not just because it was in some ways one of a kind. Diving into the story I was ready for disappointment and had even prepared a schedule to read two chapters a day, just to get through the story. All I can say is that I judged the book too quickly just based on its premise and described plot. For that I apologize to the author and readers for jumping the gun and for my faulty preconception.
I love romance. I think that is why I started with low hopes for this book to begin with. The synopsis didn’t really give me any hint at romance and gave more of a supernatural detective story kind of vibe. So from the beginning I saw it as a task more than a fun read. I am so glad my prediction was wrong! Just the first chapter got me hooked. Not just because the story was building up for a romantic relationship, but also because the world, supernatural aspects and characters was very intriguingly written that I just had to know more. I especially liked the detectives Ian Burke and Gabriel Flint. I don’t really know how to describe it but they felt very human and relatable to me. Both their personalities played out and connected so well with the main character, Mira (love that name by the way!). It was so naturally written that it felt so real in a way.
Here comes the difficult part; Not giving any spoilers away. Because as happy as I was about there being romance it just ... it didn’t fit in the book the way I wanted it to. There was no connection nor chemistry between the two characters in the relationship. It was so predictable and unsurprising as well as the guy (not saying who so I don’t spoil) being too formal, dull and impersonal. There simply just wasn’t any spark or excitement there. I rather had seen Mira end up with any of the other male characters (once again, no names), who she actually connected with way better. Weird enough coming from me, but I think it was a good thing romance wasn’t the main genre here. It saved the story, since the lacking romance did not take over or replace the rest of the book, which was pretty close to amazing.
As I’ve understood it this is the first book in a upcoming series and you can really tell reading it. There were a lot left unsaid and unexplained, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, it felt like maybe a bit too much was left in the air. The murder’s motive, the Ether creatures and the Ether, Tyler and the mystery of Emmit. Extremely little about him is explained and I was hoping more of him and all the other “left unsaid” stuff was going to reveal itself more and more as I read on, but it really didn’t. At all. Emmit would have been more intriguing to me if it had, which makes the story, not lacking per say, but not as addictive as it could and should have been. I am however sure those revelations is saved for book two, so I am very excited for that!
I am voluntarily reviewing an advance complimentary copy of this book.
I love romance. I think that is why I started with low hopes for this book to begin with. The synopsis didn’t really give me any hint at romance and gave more of a supernatural detective story kind of vibe. So from the beginning I saw it as a task more than a fun read. I am so glad my prediction was wrong! Just the first chapter got me hooked. Not just because the story was building up for a romantic relationship, but also because the world, supernatural aspects and characters was very intriguingly written that I just had to know more. I especially liked the detectives Ian Burke and Gabriel Flint. I don’t really know how to describe it but they felt very human and relatable to me. Both their personalities played out and connected so well with the main character, Mira (love that name by the way!). It was so naturally written that it felt so real in a way.
Here comes the difficult part; Not giving any spoilers away. Because as happy as I was about there being romance it just ... it didn’t fit in the book the way I wanted it to. There was no connection nor chemistry between the two characters in the relationship. It was so predictable and unsurprising as well as the guy (not saying who so I don’t spoil) being too formal, dull and impersonal. There simply just wasn’t any spark or excitement there. I rather had seen Mira end up with any of the other male characters (once again, no names), who she actually connected with way better. Weird enough coming from me, but I think it was a good thing romance wasn’t the main genre here. It saved the story, since the lacking romance did not take over or replace the rest of the book, which was pretty close to amazing.
As I’ve understood it this is the first book in a upcoming series and you can really tell reading it. There were a lot left unsaid and unexplained, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, it felt like maybe a bit too much was left in the air. The murder’s motive, the Ether creatures and the Ether, Tyler and the mystery of Emmit. Extremely little about him is explained and I was hoping more of him and all the other “left unsaid” stuff was going to reveal itself more and more as I read on, but it really didn’t. At all. Emmit would have been more intriguing to me if it had, which makes the story, not lacking per say, but not as addictive as it could and should have been. I am however sure those revelations is saved for book two, so I am very excited for that!
I am voluntarily reviewing an advance complimentary copy of this book.
February 20, 2019
I am wowed!!
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a urban fantasy suspense novel that really knocked my socks off, but this one is fantastic! I couldn’t put it down, and I’m forcing myself to write a brief review even though I want to jump straight into the next one!
This book brings to mind the writing of Ilona Andrews. Yes! I’ll say it again... the well-developed characters, the intricate world of magic, and the balance of mystery and suspense remind me of Ilona Andrews. It’s true, and both my fingers (and toes) are crossed in hopes that the next one will be just as good!
I really loved the characters, and there is so much potential for growth, both individually and interpersonally. Mira is a remarkable h, who is strong and determined, although maybe a bit too quick to develop a slight case of instalove. But wait, I’m holding off my judgment on the relationship arc for the time being. I don’t think it’s quite what it appears to be, sooo we will see what happens there.
My only complaint is that the world-building has some gaps where the reader has to stumble around and figure out what info is missing. It reads like the second book in the series, where a good bit of the world was already introduced and the author didn’t recap, for redundancy’s sake. That would be all fine and good, except this is the first book in the series, so I wanted that detail, I wanted a better picture painted for my mind so I could completely lose myself in the story. When I had to stumble over aspects of the world I didn’t understand it messed up the flow and pulled me out of the story. For that reason, it gets four stars rather than five, but it’s still an exceptionally good book, and I’m off to start the next!!
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a urban fantasy suspense novel that really knocked my socks off, but this one is fantastic! I couldn’t put it down, and I’m forcing myself to write a brief review even though I want to jump straight into the next one!
This book brings to mind the writing of Ilona Andrews. Yes! I’ll say it again... the well-developed characters, the intricate world of magic, and the balance of mystery and suspense remind me of Ilona Andrews. It’s true, and both my fingers (and toes) are crossed in hopes that the next one will be just as good!
I really loved the characters, and there is so much potential for growth, both individually and interpersonally. Mira is a remarkable h, who is strong and determined, although maybe a bit too quick to develop a slight case of instalove. But wait, I’m holding off my judgment on the relationship arc for the time being. I don’t think it’s quite what it appears to be, sooo we will see what happens there.
My only complaint is that the world-building has some gaps where the reader has to stumble around and figure out what info is missing. It reads like the second book in the series, where a good bit of the world was already introduced and the author didn’t recap, for redundancy’s sake. That would be all fine and good, except this is the first book in the series, so I wanted that detail, I wanted a better picture painted for my mind so I could completely lose myself in the story. When I had to stumble over aspects of the world I didn’t understand it messed up the flow and pulled me out of the story. For that reason, it gets four stars rather than five, but it’s still an exceptionally good book, and I’m off to start the next!!
October 4, 2018
Mira Owens is a witch who in her youth delved into the darker side of her magic. Because of her experience, she has become an expert in the occult and an asset to the local police. When a few “paranormals” are found murdered, Mira has to bound an unexpected detective (Ian Burke) so that she can share information about the mysterious paranormal society in hopes of resolving the case.
Ian isn’t too happy that he cannot break the spell and share with his partner Gabriel the secrets he has been told, which has some bad karma backlash for Mira. While this is going on, a handsome stranger named Emmitt asks Mira to help him with a spell which has some dire consequences leaving Mira and Gabriel’s lives in danger. What is Emmitt’s connection to the Ether and the creepy black creatures?
This book seems to have it all; part paranormal, romance, mystery, suspense, and even some fantasy all wrapped into one. While I first thought the book started out as a cozy mystery and slow on the intake, it soon morphed into a suspenseful paranormal adventure like no other. I really liked the character of Mira who was a reformed bad girl that is working hard to make all things right with the world. She has come to grips with her occult past and the ramifications to those that she harmed, which makes the choices that she now faces understandable and believable.
This is the first book in a new series for which I can’t wait to continue reading and finding out what happens with Mira, the oath-bound Gabriel, Detective Ian, and the mysterious Emmitt.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ian isn’t too happy that he cannot break the spell and share with his partner Gabriel the secrets he has been told, which has some bad karma backlash for Mira. While this is going on, a handsome stranger named Emmitt asks Mira to help him with a spell which has some dire consequences leaving Mira and Gabriel’s lives in danger. What is Emmitt’s connection to the Ether and the creepy black creatures?
This book seems to have it all; part paranormal, romance, mystery, suspense, and even some fantasy all wrapped into one. While I first thought the book started out as a cozy mystery and slow on the intake, it soon morphed into a suspenseful paranormal adventure like no other. I really liked the character of Mira who was a reformed bad girl that is working hard to make all things right with the world. She has come to grips with her occult past and the ramifications to those that she harmed, which makes the choices that she now faces understandable and believable.
This is the first book in a new series for which I can’t wait to continue reading and finding out what happens with Mira, the oath-bound Gabriel, Detective Ian, and the mysterious Emmitt.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 22, 2018
Fast paced with plenty of magic.
A great plot that centres on a young witch. She has been living a relatively quiet life since college. However all that changes when a member of the foundling family of their town comes back and several murders take place. Are the murders linked and why have the police picked her out to question? When the supernatural community agree to bind one of the detectives to be able to know about the supernatural world. She more or less agrees to do the spell. Knowing full well that karma will come knocking for payment. Now the more she finds out about the victims the more she realises that all of them are part of the supernatural world. A spell causes a catalyst to form when she and a detective (who not only can tell when people are lying but has also formed the opinion that she is guilty) are thrust into another dimension. Can they get back? What is the detective really? Why did the spell cause this? What are the monsters and who is the killer? Great characters but just wish there had been more about what Emmett is?
A great plot that centres on a young witch. She has been living a relatively quiet life since college. However all that changes when a member of the foundling family of their town comes back and several murders take place. Are the murders linked and why have the police picked her out to question? When the supernatural community agree to bind one of the detectives to be able to know about the supernatural world. She more or less agrees to do the spell. Knowing full well that karma will come knocking for payment. Now the more she finds out about the victims the more she realises that all of them are part of the supernatural world. A spell causes a catalyst to form when she and a detective (who not only can tell when people are lying but has also formed the opinion that she is guilty) are thrust into another dimension. Can they get back? What is the detective really? Why did the spell cause this? What are the monsters and who is the killer? Great characters but just wish there had been more about what Emmett is?
September 9, 2018
I loved the AIR series by Amanda Booloodian and bought this book because it was by the same author. This is a good book. Ms. Booloodian has a knack for creating characters that are realistic, yet flawed. Her stories give her characters adventures that allow them to learn, grow and become more than when the story started. This book follows Mira as she attempts to help human police investigate supernatural murders without letting everyone in on the secrets of the supernatural world. As always, walking a fine line can lead to problems and Mira finds herself in deep trouble. This book has lots of action, interesting/complex characters and story that will draw you in. I enjoyed it and have already pre-ordered the next book so I can follow Mira's adventures wherever they may lead.
July 20, 2021
I liked the book, but I kept leaving the story to read other series. I had the audio and finally finished by listening while working in the yard. I felt in the dark about the main character and her past interaction with the police. The character of Emit appears to be the romantic interest but his role in the magical world was ambiguous. I never felt that I had an understanding on what was going on. I expected by the end of the book to have more info on the magical world and the series arc. This book ended after an adventure but still didn't clarify anything by the end. There was a cliffhanger hook at the very end that did not entice me to want to read more.
December 23, 2021
I enjoyed this for the most part.
My two main criticisms are:
1. Especially early on there is a complete lack of progress. There is always something happening but there isn't any progress towards any of the major plot points for a very long time. I imagine this was a turnoff for a lot of people.
2. The book kinda just ends. It's not an intentional cliff-hanger but it just stops without really answering anything. There was a kind of climax but it didn't really progress the story either.
The book basically forgot to actually tell a story. It's only about the characters.
It's somewhat tropey but I never felt like it suffered from bad clichées too much.
My two main criticisms are:
1. Especially early on there is a complete lack of progress. There is always something happening but there isn't any progress towards any of the major plot points for a very long time. I imagine this was a turnoff for a lot of people.
2. The book kinda just ends. It's not an intentional cliff-hanger but it just stops without really answering anything. There was a kind of climax but it didn't really progress the story either.
The book basically forgot to actually tell a story. It's only about the characters.
It's somewhat tropey but I never felt like it suffered from bad clichées too much.
October 8, 2018
Mira has a shady past, which throws her in the spotlight in the investigation of her friend's death. Doing all she can to uncover the mystery behind the supernatural's death, Mira gets in more trouble than she bargained for and deals with a lot of karma, unknown factors and men veiled in secrets. Although the story does not end in a cliffhanger, the murderer is not clearly defined either. Well written, with solid characters and good plot development.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 30, 2018
Couldn't. Put. It. Down!
I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this series but I took a leap of faith and bought all three books. I just finished book one and I was so happy with my purchase. I finished it within barely a day; I've been getting into urban cop fantasies lately.
This book did not disappoint at all; it had murder, mystery, hot cops and equally as hot supernatural man we don't know much about accept he's hot hot hot. The twists are fun and I was definitely surprised by the culprit.
Buy a copy today!
I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this series but I took a leap of faith and bought all three books. I just finished book one and I was so happy with my purchase. I finished it within barely a day; I've been getting into urban cop fantasies lately.
This book did not disappoint at all; it had murder, mystery, hot cops and equally as hot supernatural man we don't know much about accept he's hot hot hot. The twists are fun and I was definitely surprised by the culprit.
Buy a copy today!
March 31, 2025
Solid, servicable, starting point for a urban fantasy series. While romance was an element it didn't completely take over the narrative despite a lot of, shall we say, appreciation of physical features that went on. Had a very good sense of a solid variety and solid community with a long standing past already established. It did a very good job at fleshing out these relationships and history without an info dump as it revealed bits in a far more natural pace without resorting to using cluing in the non-community human in as its entire cue to spew information.
October 6, 2018
She has been naughty and now she needs to work for a cop trying to keep her magical world hidden. all he wants is to break the spell so he can tell his friend. He has to work with her to solve a murder and she has to be careful not to be the next victim. Now will they get on? Will they solve it? Will he learn even more? See What will happen
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 20, 2020
Good read
Excellent paranormal mystery. I haven't been able to sit down and read a whole book in 2 days for quite awhile because of my card making, but this one really held my attention. I couldn't wait to see how Mira could get in and out of trouble. I'm still trying to figure out the connection between Gabriel and Emmit. There has to be one somewhere. This book has humor, danger, mystery, magic, and delves into the supernatural. Highly recommend.
Excellent paranormal mystery. I haven't been able to sit down and read a whole book in 2 days for quite awhile because of my card making, but this one really held my attention. I couldn't wait to see how Mira could get in and out of trouble. I'm still trying to figure out the connection between Gabriel and Emmit. There has to be one somewhere. This book has humor, danger, mystery, magic, and delves into the supernatural. Highly recommend.
May 1, 2025
There is quite a mix of interesting elements in this urban fantasy murder mystery series. There are the regular variety of supernatural beings and some mysterious undefined creatures performing atypical magic and confounding everyone. I was also surprised several times by the direction the story took and the events that occurred. This book is not one to get complacent about thinking you know the direction or what is coming next. It will keep you guessing.
July 31, 2018
I received Oath Bound from the author/publisher (via BookFunnel). The gifting did not determine the review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion. Excellent plot with a strong female protagonist. The story was well-paced, with plenty of action and tension. Definitely interested in reading more of the series and finding out what in in store for Mira.
September 25, 2018
an edge of your seat multi murder mystery
though in the end, I am still uncertain it has been resolved, since the underlying evil that is hunting lives outside the realm of here and now.
intense , steamy and action packed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
though in the end, I am still uncertain it has been resolved, since the underlying evil that is hunting lives outside the realm of here and now.
intense , steamy and action packed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2018
Oath Bound by Amanda Booloodian is an amazing story writen by an amazing author. I have never read anything from this author before this story, she is now one of my favorite authors. I highly recommend this story to everyoe who loves stories about magic.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2018
Confused
I don't really get this book. It was interesting enough but I felt dropped into the middle of a story at the beginning of the book. Is this a spin off series? The world building is poorly done. I also thinks it needs to be more focused. Who is Mira's love interest? She's all over the place. I don't get it.
I don't really get this book. It was interesting enough but I felt dropped into the middle of a story at the beginning of the book. Is this a spin off series? The world building is poorly done. I also thinks it needs to be more focused. Who is Mira's love interest? She's all over the place. I don't get it.
April 15, 2019
I really need to know what Emmit is . I really enjoyed reading this book but I’m still lost on who the killer is was it .... at the end of book one or is it someone else and who burned down her place . I also wonder wtf is wrong with the landlord. On too the next book to hopefully answer some of my questions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2019
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. I have not read too much that fits into the Urban Fantasy genre. This was a good start to a new series for me. I think I would love to read the rest of these. Makes me want to read more in this genre. I like witches and beside vampires is my favorite thing to read.
August 7, 2018
I read Oath Bound and loved it. This book is fast paced, absorbing and a unique murder mystery with great characters, danger, loyalty, humor. and romance. I loved Mira. She's quirky, intelligent, resourceful, brave, loyal, and full of spunk and determination to solve this murder.
August 11, 2018
I have just finished Oath Bound by Amanda Booloodian. This fantastic start to a new series is the second story in the Shadow Files collection. This author is new to me, but I have become her latest fan. Taut, suspenseful, with unexpected twists and wonderful imagery. I loved it.
November 3, 2018
Wow
I kind of felt like I was tossed into the middle, but I wasn’t lost, if that makes any sense, lol. I liked that there wasn’t long, drawn out introductions and you went right into the story and their world and I didn’t want to leave!!!
I kind of felt like I was tossed into the middle, but I wasn’t lost, if that makes any sense, lol. I liked that there wasn’t long, drawn out introductions and you went right into the story and their world and I didn’t want to leave!!!
March 30, 2020
Interesting story about a witch and other supernaturals living in a community, attempting to appear entirely human. When someone starts killing them, Miri spells a police detective, to help solve the murders, creating problems for all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2020
Magical, starts strong and doesn't quit!
I couldn't put it down. I thought that the story was leading me in one direction and it kept turning in new and exciting ways. Mira is an intriguing character and I can't wait to see what happens next.
I couldn't put it down. I thought that the story was leading me in one direction and it kept turning in new and exciting ways. Mira is an intriguing character and I can't wait to see what happens next.
December 24, 2018
Intriguing mystery
This is an intriguing murder mystery involving the supernatural community and the characters are strong and interesting going on to the 2nd one now. Fun reading
This is an intriguing murder mystery involving the supernatural community and the characters are strong and interesting going on to the 2nd one now. Fun reading
January 28, 2019
Fresh fantasy
This series has a fresh approach on the fantasy world and this book sucked me in immediately. I couldn’t put it down and am so excited to read more in the series.
This series has a fresh approach on the fantasy world and this book sucked me in immediately. I couldn’t put it down and am so excited to read more in the series.
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