Oh, do I ever love a tragic, ill-fated love story and this was so much more than that! Book 2 of the Winner's Curse trilogy pulled no punches.

Kestrel is engaged to be married to the Emperor of Valoria's son; Arin is the new Herrani governor. Both are trying to play the political game(s) required of their new position, all while 'secretly' simmering for each other. I loved how Kestrel is a strong leading lady, who is not sure how much she is willing (if anything) to give up for her love of Arin. I also really enjoy how conflicted she is; this is not an easy 'game' to play, and there are horrific consequences to all of her actions. Man that torture scene is GRUESOME.

This second book also introduced us to some additional secondary characters who also defied tropes.

Spoiler

The Emperor's son and his obvious love of the political prisoner princess of the Eastern Empire especially. Most books would make this into a 'love triangle' between Kestrel, the son, and Arin, but not here! Yay!

I didn't give this five stars due to the fact I found some of the leaps of intuition a bit of a stretch, but whatever. This is great!

I cannot wait for the last book.

Recommended for younger fans of GOT and political intrigue.