The first review for FORGOTTEN OATH is in:

Forgotten Oath by Dorothea N. Buckingham is a captivating middle-grade novel that blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and historical fiction. The story follows Noah, a young boy who finds himself thrust into a centuries-old oath made by his grandfather to a Night Marcher, a supernatural being from Hawaiian folklore. As Noah travels back in time to 1834 Hilo, he must navigate a web of intrigue to prove his innocence and fulfill his promise. One of the most striking aspects of Forgotten Oath is its exploration of themes of honor, loyalty, and the consequences of breaking promises. Through Noah’s journey, the author pulls readers into a world where ancient oaths carry grave consequences, and the bonds of family and duty are tested. The author crafts the protagonist’s transformation from doubt to determination with cleverness and tact, offering a compelling arc that resonates with readers of all ages.

Buckingham’s narrative structure is equally beautiful, with each chapter building suspense and momentum as Noah digs deeper into the mystery surrounding the Night Marcher’s descendant. The interplay between past and present timelines augments the complexity of the story and builds suspense. Moreover, Buckingham’s vivid descriptions of Hawaiian folklore and historical settings transport readers to another time and place, immersing them in the rich cultural tapestry of the story. From lush landscapes to eerie graveyards, the novel’s setting serves as a vivid backdrop for Noah’s quest, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. The characters in Forgotten Oath are finely drawn and believable, each with their own distinct traits and motivations. From the authoritative Reverend Newhouse to the skeptical Little William and the enigmatic Lopaka, each character stands out and occupies a unique spot in the ensemble. The dialogues sparkle through the pages and the drama is persistent. Forgotten Oath is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that will capture the imagination of readers young and old. With its richly imagined world, Dorothea N. Buckingham has crafted a timeless tale of courage, redemption, and the enduring power of promises kept.

Noah couldn’t recall ever looking into the face of the Night Marcher, nor did he know the act was punishable by death. After all, he was only four years old when it happened. Besides, he never believed the family legend about his grandfather making a pact with a Night Marcher to save his life.

Years later, in an abandoned cemetery, Noah finds himself transported to Hilo in 1834, where he must prove the innocence of both himself and the Night Marcher’s descendant, of murder. Desperate to return, Noah uses tricks to return home, vowing never to return to the past, even though it may mean his grandfather won’t rest in peace

But when Noah tells his cousin Blaise that he won’t go back, Blaise calls him a coward and accuses him of abandoning their grandfather. If the oath is true, Noah will die the same day the guide is hanged.

With time running out and the boundaries between the past and the present blurring, will Noah risk everything to keep his promise?