A striking fantasy tale of dark magic, dangerous politics, and discovering your true self-perfect for fans of Game of Thrones, An Ember in the Ashes and A Court of Thorns and Roses. Sixteen years ago the Kingdom of Winter was conquered and its citizens enslaved, leaving them without magic or a monarch. Now the Winterians' only hope for freedom is the eight survivors who managed to escape, and who have been waiting for the opportunity to steal back Winter's magic and rebuild the kingdom ever since. Orphaned as an infant during Winter's defeat, Meira has lived her whole life as a refugee. Training to be a warrior-and desperately in love with her best friend, Winter's future king-she would do anything to help Winter rise to power again. So when scouts discover the location of the ancient locket that can restore Winter's magic, Meira decides to go after it herself-only to find herself thrust into a world of evil magic and dangerous politics-and ultimately comes to realize that her destiny is not, never has been, her own.
Took me a little bit to get into this - but I don't think it was the books fault. I think I was just tired. Once I got about 50 pages in, though, I was hooked. I love the main character (Kiera? I've forgotten her name. grr!) and that she's a solider through and through. She has no desire for a courtly life that she's missing out on. I enjoy her struggle to not be selfish about being needed and to do what is needed, regardless of her ideal way of being needed (does that make sense? will have to clear up in final review). There was some fantastic battles and use of magic. I would love to see this one on the big screen for that element alone.
Only downsides for me - 1 - "the twist" I was 99% sure that it was going to be the twist by like 5 pages in. No I'm not exaggerating. I was OBVIOUS to me.
2 - there's sort of a love triangle. And for me it felt awkward because the one relationship never felt like more than brotherly affection, even though clearly it was supposed to seem like more. But I think I approve of her choice, assuming it is her final choice.
This could be a stand alone. You don't NEED more. But I certainly will enjoy reading more :)
