A review by phantomparagrapher7
The Grandest Game by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 

Jennifer Lynn Barnes is back with a brilliant new spin-off in The Inheritance Games universe, and The Grandest Game does not disappoint. Building on the foundations laid in The Brothers Hawthorne, this novel introduces a thrilling escape-room style competition—crafted by none other than Avery Grambs and Jameson Hawthorne—that’s equal parts mystery, strategy, and high-stakes drama. 

Seven golden tickets. Seven competitors. One life-changing fortune. The premise is simple but irresistible: anyone lucky (or clever) enough to secure a ticket is invited to an exclusive island for the chance to win unimaginable wealth. But true to Barnes’ signature style, not everything is as it seems. Each player enters with secrets and motives, and as the challenges grow more complex, the tension reaches boiling point. 

What makes The Grandest Game shine is its dynamic blend of old and new. Fans of the original series will be thrilled to see familiar faces. Meanwhile, the new characters bring fresh intrigue and keep the story unpredictable. 

The pacing is electric, with every chapter ending on a moment that dares you not to keep reading. And just when you think you’ve figured it all out, this book hits us with a cliffhanger that leaves you gasping for more. 

Luckily, I already have Glorious Rivals on pre-order—and I’ll definitely be diving into the novella Games Untold in the meantime to help tide me over. The Grandest Game is a must-read for fans of the series and newcomers alike, packed with secrets, twists, and high-stakes fun. If you thought the Hawthornes were done with games, think again.