A story of glamour, exploitation and revenge, A Game of Oaths is a new book that feels like classic YA. Set during France’s La Belle Époque, a period typically known for its splendour and enlightenment, S.C. Bandreddi exposes the dark side of this supposed Golden Era through a dark but luscious revenge plot.

Bound to a magical circus, the main character Falan is forced to compete in a tournament to the death for the entertainment of high-paying patrons. While most dread being picked, Falan has been plotting how she can destroy these games from the inside out after her sister was killed in them the previous year. This book revels in the revenge fantasy and grey morality of its main character, but that doesn’t prevent Falan and the ragtag team she enlists to help her beat the game from becoming characters you endlessly want to cheer on. There were also multiple slow-burn romances in this book that had me giggling and kicking my feet. The entire principal cast is made up of people of colour and queer people. They represent voices that absolutely existed during this time period, but have long been ignored and suppressed. S.C. Bandreddi shines a light on the suffering and exploitation they endured at the hands of the French. If you’re after your next Hunger Games, Caraval or Six of Crows, look no further. This book captures elements of all three and weaves them together to create something unique. Recommended for ages 14+.