4.5 stars.

A dark & magical Hunger Games. I needed this book as soon as I knew it was available. A pile of teenage magicians, most of them wealthy and privileged, vying to be the one left standing in a mass duel to the death.

There was a bit of a slow start to this one as the history of the people was established, but once things got rolling, I was chomping at the bit. Aaaaand once again I went into a read without recognizing/remembering that it is part of a series. So things really got rolling, I was deep in a reading groove, and then I realized that it was going to end without ending. So...I'm going to need the sequel like...now.

This was such a fun read. I loved the grit of it and the different personalities of the characters. I loved the tension and the ruthlessness of the tournament. There were admittedly a lot of characters to keep track of in the beginning and I do admit to mixing a few of them up every once in a while, but I think I have a good handle on it now. I also admit to consistently comparing these characters to those in The Hunger Games as I read, but I can't be blamed here. There are definitely pieces of these characters who resemble Finnick, Johanna, and Peeta among others. There are some fantastic character interactions and relationships and yes...they are all villains. It's fabulous.

The magic system is interesting, especially as it relies on a combination of innate skill and purchased spells. I found that a bit quirky, but it works. High stakes, lots of betrayal, and some pretty dark atmosphere rounded this baby out and I am a fan. I'm looking forward to seeing where things go from here.

* Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *