This review originally posted at More Than Just Magic 
 The Oathbreaker's Shadow takes us deep into a unique, richly imagined desert setting and introduces us to a boy who has broken a vow he doesn't even remember making. Outcast from the society he has called home, he searches for an answer, all while just trying to stay alive. 
 The worldbuilding in The Oathbreaker's Shadow is fantastic. It is such a unique setting - a desert society, nomadic groups, a hidden city. There is just so much to this world McCulloch has created. You can tell she has thought of every detail. From societal customs, to dress, to religion, to political structure. It's all here. This is both a plus and a small drawback. On the one hand, it takes awhile for the story to really get going, so much of the early book is spent on explaining everything. But on the other (more important) hand, you can really lose yourself in this world and even though it all came from McCulloch's head I felt like I could picture it in vivid detail. 
 Though the main focus of the novel is on Raim, there are a whole host of other characters for you to get to know as well. Not an overwhelming amount but enough that it seemed full. One if particular - a girl named Waid - I really liked. I liked Raim too but sometimes he seemed a little naive. With Waid, I liked how she could be both a strong female character and a flawed character. One doesn't have to negate the other. It makes for more interesting reading. 
 The Oathbreaker's Shadow is a book with huge cross over appeal - young adult and adult fantasy fans are going to find a lot to love. It's sort of like the high fantasy version of Dune. It's written in a more classical, epic fantasy style, but still very accessible. There were a couple of times I needed to go back and read over a passage or two, but it wasn't enough times to really make a difference. I was so absorbed in this story I just wanted to know what happens next. 
 Recommendation: Highly recommended for those who like to lose themselves in incredibly detailed fantasy. Great for fans of George R R Martin and Ellen Oh's Prophecy. Not recommended for those who enjoy faster paced reads or more action/battle heavy fantasy titles.