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Oathbreaker

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If you like Bernard Cornwell, Ken Follett, David Gemmell, John Gwynne and Conn Iggulden you will love this medieval adventure packed with battles, betrayals and swords.

Oathbreaker continues the thrilling historical fiction series which began with Award Winning Author Dimitar Gyopsaliev' debut novel Edward and the Assassin.

★★★★★"Oathbreaker is a captivating tale that immediately seized my attention and kept me engrossed. I enjoyed every aspect of this book, from its alluring cover to its fascinating characters and thrilling action sequences. Overall, this is great work." —Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite

"A man is only as good as his sword"


Experience the thrilling historical fiction novel Oathbreaker, set in the aftermath of the Second Battle of Ayn Jalut during the Crusades. Follow the gripping journey of Peter Longsword, a hero wracked with guilt after his friend's death and on a quest for revenge. Struggling to find his place in a tumultuous world, Peter must confront both external threats and internal demons as he navigates through political intrigue and historical conflicts between Christians and Mamluks. Along the way, he develops relationships with Lady Eleanor, Princess Shajar al-Durr, Lord Broca, and Ivar as he seeks to uncover the secrets behind mysterious shipwrecks and his father's legacy of honor versus betrayal. With powerful emotions and a strong conflict at every turn, will Peter be able to protect those he loves and find the truth before it is too late? If you enjoyed books such as Ken Follet's Pillars of the Earth, then you'll love Oathbreaker.

383 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 27, 2023

9 people are currently reading
55 people want to read

About the author

Dimitar Gyopsaliev

8 books11 followers
Dimitar Gyopsaliev, an award-winning and internationally bestselling author, is devoted to giving his readers fast-paced adventures full of plot twists. He doesn’t live in a castle with his family and doesn’t possess shining armor. However, he loves history and uses his imagination to tell good stories. By day, he’s an engineer supporting others in building their projects. By night, he helps princesses and knights achieve their dreams. He tries to be a doting father because his children inspired him to create stories for them.

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5 stars
26 (57%)
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13 (28%)
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3 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Jess.
890 reviews1 follower
February 26, 2024
Oathbreaker is a historical fiction novel based in the crusades by Dimitar Gyopsaliev. It is the sequel to Longsword. This book follows Peter Longsword during the crusades. After a battle, Peter is struggling with guilt because his friend saved his life and he died in the process. After this event, Peter goes on an adventure, coming across many different threats. This book covers historical events as well as politics that occurred during this time. Peter learns about his father, Edward, and what he was called he also meets people along his journey in life who are trying to solve mysteries.

 

This book starts out with a mystery that leads into chaos. We have a battle going on, which is pretty brutal. I liked how the beginning of the book, with finding the skull on the beach, ties back into the book later. It really does keep a mystery for the reader to stay into the book. Not to give anything away, but the ending I think really wrapped the book together. Especially with the happy and heartwarming ending we get.

 

The historical time period is also intriguing, especially for those who are interested in knights and swords. I have not read books during this time that was not a classic, so it was definitely different and unique for me. I think the description of the period was well done. I could really see it all play out in my head, and made me feel like I went back in time myself. The historical context was also a big factor in making it feel like you were transported in time. The characters were also well done, varied, and gave some historical context with some famous people. I think people who are interested in this time period will have a fun time reading this book. It is definitely an adventure that carries the reader to another time, getting lost in politics and chaos.

 
Profile Image for Evelyn.
1,297 reviews28 followers
March 5, 2024
Oathbreaker is an enthralling historical fiction novel written by Dimitar Gyopsaliev that develops into the aftermath of the Second Battle of Ayn Jalut during the Crusades. The main character, Peter Longsword, is a hero looking for his place in a tumultuous time, struggling with an all-consuming guilt because of his friend’s death and trying to seek revenge without it destroying his entire life. Will he be able to discover in time that sometimes some things are better left in the past? Or will his inner and outer demons haunt him forever?
The author's thorough research into the medieval era is evident throughout the book, and his attention to detail effectively immerses the reader in that historical setting. This skillful portrayal of the period enhances the narrative, providing a vivid backdrop that complements the story. As a history enthusiast with a particular interest in the events that have shaped our world, the Crusades have always held a special fascination for me. Their impact on history is undeniable, serving as a catalyst for numerous significant changes. So naturally, when I came across a book delving into this subject, my curiosity was instantly piqued. This book exceeded my expectations, presenting one of the most engaging narratives on the Crusades I've encountered. The author skillfully blends historical facts with compelling fiction, creating a tapestry enriched by memorable characters. This combination makes the book incredibly absorbing, to the point where it's challenging to set it aside even momentarily.
For anyone interested in historical narratives that are both informative and captivating, this book is a must-read. It stands out not just for its content, but for the immersive experience it offers, making it a noteworthy addition to the genre.
Profile Image for Book Reviewer.
4,946 reviews452 followers
January 15, 2024
Dimitar Gyopsaliev's Oathbreaker, the second installment in the Return of the Son series, is a captivating journey back to the turbulent times of the Crusades. This medieval historical fiction begins in the volatile aftermath of the Second Battle of Ayn Jalut, continuing the saga of Peter Longsword, a character whose very name evokes images of bravery and honor. Haunted by past failures and the death of his friend Adam, Longsword is a man transformed by grief and driven by retribution. His path is not just a personal quest but a navigation through the intricate historical animosities between Christians and Mamluks, with dangers lurking at every turn. Yet, Longsword's journey takes an unexpected detour. A mysterious shipwreck uncovers a conspiracy tied to his lineage, shifting his quest from simple vengeance to a deeper exploration of identity and legacy.

This narrative twist adds layers to an already complex character, showcasing Longsword's evolution from a mere street orphan to a figure of nobility and determination, reminiscent of the heroes in Ken Follett's 'The Pillars of the Earth' series. Supporting characters like Lady Eleanor, Princess Shajar, and Ivar provide more than just narrative scaffolding; they are the emotional pillars that challenge and deepen Longsword's journey. The dynamics among these characters enhance the story, offering moments of introspection and camaraderie amid the chaos. Gyopsaliev's writing is fluid and gripping, weaving historical accuracy with rich, imaginative storytelling. The balance between action-packed sequences and character development is commendable, ensuring the pace is relentless yet reflective. The looming possibility of loss adds a layer of tension, making each moment and decision crucial.

Oathbreaker is more than a historical novel; it's a tapestry of battle, betrayal, and belonging. It invites both seasoned enthusiasts and new readers into its vividly rendered past. While it stands strong, delving into the first book might enrich the experience. Overall, it's a compelling blend of meticulous research, dynamic characters, and a story that resonates long after the last page.
Profile Image for Steven Finkelstein.
1,022 reviews13 followers
January 17, 2024
In the 13th century, the Holy Crusades have plunged several parts of the world into chaos. Carnage and bloodshed are the order of the day. Set against this backdrop, the wandering warrior Peter Longsword attempts to navigate a treacherous landscape. He has his own definition of honor that he feels bound to uphold, but the constantly shifting political tides around him test both his mettle and convictions. Peter finds himself in the company of various historical figures, each of whom has a part to play in the conflict. The choices he makes will impact, both directly and indirectly, the outcome of the battles raging all around him.

Oathbreaker, by Dimitar Gyopsaliev, is a historical fiction novel that pays a great deal of attention to period detail. That is the most impressive aspect of some novels set in the historical fiction genre, but that is not the case here.

The period detail in this book is undeniably impressive but what’s more noteworthy about it is the complexity and subtle rendering of the characters. This is true of Longsword, a multifaceted enigma often torn by conflicting loyalties and urges, but it’s also evident in the other individuals who pass in and out of his life. The characters are fully realized and fleshed out and Lord Broca and Lady Eleanor are perfect examples. Every element of the book, including the dialogue, set pieces, and the intense ferocity of the battle sequences, is effectively executed.

This book is somewhat reminiscent of the better Arthurian legends rendered as novels, especially The Mists of Avalon by Marian Zimmer Bradley. This is an extraordinary novel that is worth reading more than once. Like all the best examples of literature, experiencing it multiple times seems likely to reveal additional nuances that might have been missed the first time around.
Profile Image for S Tyty.
1,290 reviews29 followers
March 6, 2024
The second installment in Dimitar Gyopsaliev's Return of the Son series, Oathbreaker ,is a historical fiction drawing inspiration from the epoch of the Holy Crusades. Spanning eighteen chapters, this novel offers an immersive experience right from the start, with an included map setting the stage for the unfolding events. The addition of a glossary is a thoughtful touch, helping readers keep track of the diverse array of characters, from soldiers to crusaders.
Gyopsaliev employs a dialogue-centric narrative style, bringing to life the tumultuous period of the Crusades. Central to this narrative is Peter Longsword, an itinerant fighter whose journey through dangerous terrains and pivotal decisions forms the crux of the story. His character is skillfully developed, embodying the strength and complexity intended by the author.
One of the standout features of Oathbreaker is Gyopsaliev's rich use of language. Despite its plot-driven nature, the novel's descriptive prowess and expansive vocabulary elevate the reading experience, at times echoing the cadence of historical poetry. This linguistic finesse does not detract from the action-packed storyline, which, in my opinion, surpasses its predecessor in terms of engagement.
Gyopsaliev's intelligent and captivating writing style shines throughout the book, making this book a compelling read for those who appreciate a blend of historical depth and narrative flair.
Profile Image for CarlitasFox.
1,503 reviews28 followers
March 5, 2024
A page-turning novel
It’s true that if you’re fond of Ken Follet’s novel as I am, then this saga will suit your tastes and you’ll find it enthralling. The story is set in the Holy Lands during the Crusades, particularly after the battle of Ayn Jalut. There’s a bit of everything in this novel, medieval knights, far lands, treason and greediness. The book provides a detailed description of the characters which help readers understand the importance of their roles in the story and the way they act. When I started reading this novel, it reminded me of medieval history that I learned while I was studying English Literature. This historical fiction novel vividly brings to life its characters, authentically representing their behaviors, attire, and values appropriate to the era. The characters are not only dynamic but also intricately developed, with Peter being a standout example. As an orphan working in a castle, his evolution into a character of unexpected depth is particularly noteworthy. The narrative weaves together themes such as bravery, love, betrayal, and adventure, adding richness to the story's tapestry. I highly recommend it!
1 review
December 3, 2023
When I started reading the first book, I was skeptical. But after I finished it, I was looking forward to finding out what was going to happen to some of the characters. And the second book did not disappoint me. It was so interesting and thrilling that I couldn't put it down until I read the last page.
Profile Image for Books  Shelf.
333 reviews32 followers
December 15, 2023
"Oathbreaker" by Dimitar Gyopsaliev is a gripping medieval adventure that keeps readers enthralled from start to finish. The book's richly developed characters, thrilling action sequences, and intricate plot make it a must-read for fans of historical fiction. Gyopsaliev's storytelling prowess shines through, delivering an engrossing tale of revenge, honor, and betrayal.
2 reviews
November 30, 2023
The story was very interesting, especially the investigation of the shipwreck and the ending was filler. I hope the next one comes out soon.
Profile Image for Russell Miles.
18 reviews
Read
October 10, 2025
I liked the first book, but this sequel was boring. I didn't even get through the entire book.
3 reviews
December 16, 2023
The Oathbreaker is a must-read! I couldn't put the book down once I started reading. Hope there is another book from the series.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews

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