The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski

The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski

Release Date:  March 4, 2014

Publisher:  Farrar Straus and Giroux

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages:  368

Summary:  Winning what you want may cost you everything you love.

As a general’s daughter in a vast empire that revels in war and enslaves those it conquers, seventeen-year-old Kestrel has two choices: she can join the military or get married. But Kestrel has other intentions. One day, she is startled to find a kindred spirit in a young slave up for auction.

Arin’s eyes seem to defy everything and everyone. Following her instinct, Kestrel buys him—with unexpected consequences. It’s not long before she has to hide her growing love for Arin. But he, too, has a secret, and Kestrel quickly learns that the price she paid for a fellow human is much higher than she ever could have imagined.

Set in a richly imagined new world, The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a story of deadly games where everything is at stake, and the gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart.

My Thoughts: Yet another series I knew I had to read. Now, when does book 2 come out?

We are introduced to Kestrel who is a general’s daughter. Her father wants her to either join the military or find herself a good husband. While Kestrel can hold her own well enough, she doesn’t want to do either. Not really.

Kestrel has a best friend named Jess and Jess’ brother is also interested in her. He does his fair share of flirting.

Kestrel gets swept up in an auction and ends up bidding on a slave. His name is Arin and she ends up paying a nice penny for him. This sure does change her life.

Arin isn’t who he claims to be and his own plan and way of life. They both get more than what they bargained for with each other.

Arin is out to change things and this is a big problem for Kestrel.

I loved this story. I loved all the interactions between the two. And I even loved seeing Kestrel visit with her friends. I just thought the story was so enchanting and well written. And filled with action!

I loved the mystery, the romance, the characters, and the way things went down. I loved seeing how Kestrel and Arin reacted to things.

But of course, the ending. Oh the ending. Now I want the next book. I need to know what happens!!!!

Overall:  I loved this one! If I could give it more than 5 cupcakes, I sure would! I loved Arin! Perfect Arin. And I loved how strong Kestrel was and how motivated, and smart.

I loved this story!!!!

Cover:  I really like it! Love how she is positioned and her dress!

What I’d Give It: