Review: Oath Bound by Rachel Vincent

 

Title: Oath Bound {Unbound #3}

Author: Rachel Vincent

Published: MIRA  April 3012

Status: Read on April 14, 2013 — I own a copy{Courtesy Harlequin AU}

My Thoughts:

I was lucky enough to hear Rachel Vincent speak earlier this year at The Harlequin Blogger Summit. Having already enjoyed her Shifter’s series, I ordered Blood Bound and Shadow Bound to read in preparation for her visit. Though I didn’t have the time to review either novel I devoured them both and gave them each 41/2 stars.

In general I prefer urban fantasy to paranormal romance but what I love about this series is how well it combines the two. Oath Bound, like the other installments in the Unbound trilogy, is gritty, dark, fast paced and action packed. The development of the romance is an important element but it doesn’t take precedence over the plot, which is complex and well thought out.

Oath Bound is the final novel in the adult paranormal romance trilogy which is set in a world where the ‘skilled’ population are forced to choose sides between two ruthless mafia-like syndicates. Jake Tower and Ruben Cavazos exploit the abilities of ‘binders’ to press those they find useful into servitude to ensure the operation of their criminal and business enterprises. The complex and creative world building quickly drew me in, much of the groundwork is laid down Blood Bound and the framework remains an important part of the story through the trilogy. In Oath Bound the a major part of the plot involves the characters actively working to dismantle the Tower group.

Blood Bound also introduces the core characters for the trilogy but each of the books in the Unbound series features a different couple who become romantically involved. In Oath Bound that is Kris and Sera, through whom the story unfolds with alternating first person points of view.
ris’s sister, Kori, a Shadow walker, was featured in Shadow Bound developing a relationship with Ian Holt. Kenley, their youngest sister and a gifted Binder, has been an integral cast member all the way through, and Oath Bound begins with her kidnapping.
Sera is a newly introduced character, the unacknowledged, illegitimate daughter of Jake Tower, who proves to be a vital linchpin in the group’s plans to destroy the Tower Syndicate. Sera has made the mistake of approaching her Aunt Julia for help when Kris interrupts Sera’s meeting with Julia after Kenley is taken. In the firefight that follows, Kris takes Sera with him as he escapes into the shadows. Sera is incensed, certain she is being held hostage while Kris can’t properly explain his compulsion to take her.

Various story arc’s span the trilogy so I would recommend starting at the beginning if you are interested. I have really enjoyed the Undone series and while Oath Bound provides closure, I’m sorry the author chose to end it. Still, Rachel assured me when I had the opportunity to ask, that a new adult audience series would be launched later this year and I am looking forward to it.

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5 thoughts on “Review: Oath Bound by Rachel Vincent

  1. I really enjoyed Vincent’s Shifter series, but I’ve been wavering on whether to read her new series or not, because it’s listed as romanc, or paranormal romance. I’m really not into romancey novels – though some are pretty good. (it’s the over the top ones that get to me, )

    Good to know that the romance isn’t overwhelming. I’m more apt to buy if I know for sure the romance isn’t too much (no heaving bosoms, throbbing parts….or least, not too many of them, lol) Although, I do agree that Vincent is a good writer- so even a paranormal romance might be good reading if it’s by her. 🙂

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    1. Hi Mardel – I think the other elements are so strong that there is plenty to keep non romance fans interested 🙂

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    1. They are quite different to each other Sheree, Shifters is more YA skewed while the Unbound series is more adult. I enjoyed both though I have to admit I almost gave up on Shifters after the first book so keep that in mind!

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