Last updated on January 23, 2026
Obligation’s Unity by Lauren N Sefchik
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
‘YA Fantasy Book of the Year’. I loved this story and I can’t recommend it enough. Whole story is hard to put down.
The kingdom of Balforem is fighting a losing war against the evolving zombie-like creatures called Lobwendel. The only way forward is to propose a marriage alliance with the kingdom of Hanmel. Lyonesse faces mortal danger, divine interference, and multiple odds–political, social, and emotional–as she travels to Ysile Marden for this task, least of which is that the ML, Desmond, refuses to marry her.
Inspite of the explosive beginning, Lyonesse and Desmond are my favourite couple now. Both were able to overcome grief and find peace in eachother. The way their relationship grows along with the story, their playful yet mature dialogue exchange, their obvious chemistry, all of it is a wonderful message to all readers. Desmond is a born-leader, undefeatable warrior and hiding a dark past. He shows tremendous discipline and compassion at the same time. Very loveable ML.
Another brilliant key character is Petra, Lyonesse’s companion. I really loved her friendship with Lyonesse. The mature-women banter between them is delicious. Petra’s story is unexpected and intriguing. Her character is sure to be a major hit with all readers.
I thought it really clever how the author establishes the hierarchy and patriarchy inside the world-building using dialogue and flashback. Also, the war and fighting scenes are written so well. The terrific pacing, the attention to detail in each fight, the destruction, noise, smells and smoke is all very well portrayed.
If I had to nitpick, I would like to see more unique magical tools used in the fight scenes. But that’s just me. The story is still excellent in every way.
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
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