Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review

Review: A dazzling tale jam-packed with drama and deception. 

 

“The Notorious Virtues” follows Honora “Nora” Holtzfall—the daughter of the most powerful heiress in all of Walstad—and Lotte—the illegitimate daughter of Nora’s aunt—as they compete in a series of magical trials for power that determines the one family heir. 

 

Hamilton’s latest publication is an exploration of power, privilege, and complicated family dynamics set against the backdrop the Veritaz Trials. The Veritaz creates a thrilling, high-stakes atmosphere that I found both captivating and intriguing. With the Holtzfalls competing to see who will be the next heiress, this book definitely has a “Knives Out” feel to it. The betrayals, unique magic system, and murder-mystery work together to keep readers entertained and on their toes. 

 

Hamilton’s cast of characters further sucked me into the story. I enjoyed alternating between the perspectives of glamorous heiresses, rakish journalists, and dashing knights. Each play a part in piecing together what happened to Nora’s mother while also being each other’s biggest competition. I really enjoyed their distinctive personalities and learning more about Nora and Lotte’s motivations for wanting to win the trials. 

 

This story ends with several loose threads and I can’t wait to see where they lead in future books!