Review: The Winner's Curse
The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book took me by surprise. I was not expecting to like it this much, but the more I think about it, I absolutely loved this book.
The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkowski is about 17-year-old Krestel, the daughter of a powerful general and who lives an empire that’s all about war and conquering the land and people that they defeated. Kestrel has two options: either to marry or join the military. But, Kestrel doesn’t want either of those options, she wants to choose her own fate. One day out with her friend, Jess, they stumble upon a slave auction. A young slave, Arin, catches the eye of Kestrel and buys him-but this one action ends up being costly for Kestrel.
Rutkowski has created a unique and captivating world; one full of games and excitement. I love the buildup of the characters; with the first half of the book getting to know Kestrel and Arin, with the second half of the book full of action.
I like how Rutkowski has created characters that are strong and complex. Kestrel and Arin are both complicated characters. They both want different things and have different agendas, yet they can’t deny their growing love for each other. Without betraying their countries or people, the question is could Arin and Kestrel be together? Will being together cost them their lives>
The Winner’s Curse is a great young-adult fantasy novel and I can’t wait for the sequel!