What drives a person to chance death by sailing to an island that may not exist? In Victoria McCombs’s swashbuckling tale Oathbound, Emme tags along with Arn’s pirate crew on the Royal Rose as they sail after a rumored treasure, but that’s not the treasure she seeks. They face uncharted waters, wicked sea creatures, and a ghostly ship that haunts their thoughts and dreams. Avast ye! This tale of oaths and bonds steers an exciting voyage through dangerous waters. Secrets and ambition lurk at every turn, and sins bring real consequences. McCombs has provided a rousing story full of emotion and adventure to sail readers into further chronicles of the Royal Rose.

Best for: Fans of pirate tales and fantasy, young adults and older.

Discern: Violence (they are pirates, after all), death, some dark magic.