The Game of Oaths
Revenge is a powerful motivator, and trapeze artist, Falan is nothing if not determined to serve up justice to the man who caused her sister’s death. Welcome to Belle Époque Paris, historical fantasy style, where circus entertainment and magic combine, and a version of the Hunger Games is about to play out.
Instead of the dystopian future world created by Suzanne Collins, Bandreddi offers up a narrower, but equally cruel, historical setting where vulnerable youngsters are picked up off the streets and offered a place in Jean-Pierre’s underground circus. Each performer will have the opportunity to enhance their inner magical skills – their affinities – but they also forfeit their freedom and risk being chosen for the annual Game of Oaths. This is a magically produced fight to the death, put on for the entertainment for wealthy elites in Paris society who place bets and prefer the so-called Lilies, bringing a racist undercurrent to everything that unfolds.
Falan is an excellent main character, ruthless but also vulnerable, independent and yet reliant on her alliances to stay alive in the game. Secondary characters add great value and there are twists and turns aplenty as the characters, and the reader, wonder who they can trust. Magical and historical elements blend well here, and there is plenty of potential for a sequel. A well-written and engaging story.
