Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Genre: Fantasy, Action-Adventure, Historical Fiction, Media Tie-in

Book Review:
Oliver Bowden, the veteran novelist behind many Assassin's Creed adaptations, returns with ''Desert Oath,'' the official prequel to the hugely popular game ''Assassin's Creed: Origins.'' This young adult novel takes readers back twenty years before the events of the game, introducing us to a teenage Bayek—the man who will one day become the last Medjay and founder of the Hidden Ones (the Assassin Brotherhood).

Set in ancient Egypt in 70 BCE, the story follows Bayek, a teenage boy living in the peaceful town of Siwa. His father, Sabu, is one of the last members of the ancient Medjay order—protectors of Egypt sworn to serve Pharaoh. When a merciless killer begins hunting the remaining Medjay to eradicate their bloodline, Sabu is forced to leave suddenly to protect his family. Bayek is left with questions about his own future and a sense of purpose he knows he must fulfill. He sets off in search of answers, his journey taking him along the Nile through an Egypt in turmoil, facing the dangers and mysteries of the Medjay's path.

Bowden's writing is fast-paced and accessible, perfect for younger readers. The action sequences are well-choreographed, capturing the visceral thrill of combat that the game is known for. The Egyptian setting is vividly rendered—from the bustling streets of Alexandria to the quiet beauty of Siwa, from the mighty Nile to the dangerous deserts.

Bayek is a compelling protagonist—curious, brave, and determined to prove himself. We see the foundations of the man he will become: his sense of justice, his loyalty to his family, his connection to Egypt. His journey of self-discovery is the heart of the novel, and Bowden handles it with sensitivity and insight. The supporting characters—including his friend Hepzefa and the mysterious Aya—add depth to the narrative.

The novel also explores the political turmoil of the period—the decline of the Ptolemaic dynasty, the machinations of the Order of the Ancients (precursors to the Templars), and the suffering of the Egyptian people. It sets the stage perfectly for the game, explaining how Bayek came to be the man we meet in Origins.

For fans of the Assassin's Creed franchise, this book is essential reading—it adds depth and context to one of the most beloved games in the series. For younger readers or those new to the franchise, it's an accessible entry point—a standalone adventure that works on its own merits. The blend of historical fiction and fantasy action is sure to please.