3.52 AVERAGE


I did not expect to love this. Kalinda charmed me from the first though. Her strongly held values only got stronger as the story progresses. The strong women characters and engaging world that King has created really kept me turning pages steadily. Couldn't put it down, moved onto the second one in the series quickly thereafter.

I enjoyed this overall. The story was engaging and I liked the concept. Some action scenes are clunky and lack clarity. But I look forward to the next book in the series.

This was ok but there were too many cliché plot points and the themes were like a hammer to the reader’s head. Like OK, we get it! Men are trash!
adventurous emotional tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I can see the appeal for this book, but I personally couldn't really connect to it. I loved the hints of emotional complexity that the characters showed at the beginning of the book, but the story is predictable and Kalinda becomes a generic YA fantasy hero by the end of it. The feminist aspects were kind of fun. An easy enough fantasy read tho and I think it's great for fans of the Shatter Me franchise. 

I'm glad it was free with Kindle Unlimited.

A great read for those who love fantasy and culture books! I loved the authors integration of ancient cultural practices with a fantasy twist!

I slept on this series for a while but I finally got back around to reading this book and I really enjoyed it. The story was well written and the progression always kept me guessing. This story made me feel and got me invested in the characters and their wellbeing which to me is what makes a great story.

Amazing and Captivating!

The world Emily R. King created was so vibrant and beautiful! I was hooked soon after starting. Her words wove the most beautiful tapestry of palace life, treachery, and power. I will definitely be moving on to the second book!
adventurous emotional hopeful tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Loved this book.

There was so much about this book that kept me interested. The ending came full circle! Kalinda is a character that I enjoyed seeing her growth throughout the story.