Summary:

In the realm of Lightlark, six rulers from different realms gather every 100 years to participate in the Centennial, a deadly game designed to break the curses that have plagued their realms for centuries. Isla Crown, the young ruler of Wildling, is determined to end her realm's suffering by succeeding at the Centennial, but the cost of victory may be higher than she's willing to pay.

Characters:

The characters in Lightlark are complex and multi-dimensional, with each ruler having their own secrets and motivations. Isla Crown is a strong and determined protagonist who will stop at nothing to save her realm. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, with distinct personalities and backstories that add depth to the story.

Romance:

The romance in Lightlark is a slow-burning and intense aspect of the story, with Isla finding herself drawn to two mysterious and brooding characters: Oro and Grim. The tension between them is palpable, and the romance adds an extra layer of complexity to the plot.

Trigger Warnings:

Lightlark deals with mature themes, including violence, murder, and betrayal. There are also hints of emotional manipulation and gaslighting, which may be triggering for some readers.

Favorite Quotes:

"That was the moment I knew I loved you, he had said. When the arrow went through your heart and it might as well have gone through mine."

Overall Review:

Lightlark is a masterfully crafted fantasy novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With its intricate world-building, complex characters, and pulse-pounding plot twists, this book is a must-read for fans of legendary fantasy writers like Marie Lu, Marissa Meyer, and Leigh Bardugo. Be prepared for a wild ride filled with secrets, deception, romance, and heart-pumping action. 5 stars!