Every year, 12 performers are chosen to take part in the Game of Oaths, an underground, brutal tournament watched by the elite - however, only the winner will make it out alive.
Haunted by the death of her sister in the game the year prior, when seventeen year old Falan is selected to take part, she only has one thing on her mind - revenge.
As she is thrown into a world of shifting alliances, dangerous magic and blood-thirsty opponents, Falan must decide who she can trust to help her win the game and fulfil her quest for revenge.
This gripping, tension-filled YA novel feels like a magical version of The Hunger Games - and I absolutely loved it. I was hooked from the very first page and couldn't put the book down! It was fast-moving, with lots of twists and turns that kept me on edge until the very end.
The circus set in the backstreets of Paris was the most perfect backdrop for the competition. I could see the circus tent and all the performers clearly in my mind. The characters were complex, and Falan was a very compelling protagonist to follow. It is interesting because she isn't exactly a likeable character - however, that made her story even more captivating! She is a very strong female lead and I would have loved more insight into her mind.
After a huge lead up, the ending did feel a little quick. I would have loved to find out what happened next, especially with the romances that were slowly developing throughout. But maybe a sequel is on the way? If so, I will be reading it the day it comes out!
I highly recommend this novel to any teen aged 14+ looking for a thrilling, dark fantasy. I will await eagerly for S.C. Bandreddi's next book!
Title: The Game of Oaths
Author: S.C. Bandreddi
Publisher: Walker Books Australia, $27.99
Publication Date: May 2026
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781529531343
For ages: 14+
Type: Young Adult Fiction
Author: S.C. Bandreddi
Publisher: Walker Books Australia, $27.99
Publication Date: May 2026
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781529531343
For ages: 14+
Type: Young Adult Fiction
