“Because you are the wild sea and unkempt storms and constellations in a world where I am the anchor for everyone I know... And you remind me that I can do impossible things.”

This was such an interesting concept! Reading the synopsis brings to mind stories with similar premises, the most notable being Goblet of Fire, but I have to say, it is nothing like those other stories. In some ways, this was a good thing. In others, perhaps it would have made the story more intriguing. There were moments when I saw the concept so close to being realized, and others when the plot seemed lost completely.

The characters were sweet, if not as fleshed out as I would have liked. Similarly with the plot, I felt there were moments when I could see the potential of a character, but then others when they seemed to be embodiment of an all-too-familiar stereotype (the supportive best friend, the golden love interest, the sexist idiot, etc.)

You Should Read This If You:

1. Want a quick, easy fantasy story.
2. Like the idea of healthy feminism, that doesn't put down other women to succeed.
3. Want cute friendships and a chaste romance.

You Probably Shouldn't Read This If You:

1. Are squeamish. The first chapter opens with Rhen in a morgue, trying to extract a sample of a dead man's blood. There's a lot of talk of dead bodies and it's even used in flirting?? Multiple times??? (Don't ask, I'm just as concerned as you are.)
2. Are expecting intense world-building. While Weber sets up an interesting world, there is little to no explanation and many times, it's easy to feel confused on why things are the way they are.
3. Are expecting the majority of the book to take place during the competition. It's actually a very minor part that doesn't even happen until just about the midway point.

Despite the fact I went into this story expecting it to be something else, it was still an enjoyable read with an interesting premise and a good message. Weber has a concise yet whimsical writing style that I look forward to reading again.

“Be as swift as the wind. As silent as the forest. As fierce as the fire. As unshakable as the mountain. And you can do anything...”

While there isn't much I remember about this book, let me just say- THE WRITING. Oh my goodness. Renée Ahdieh's writing style may just be one of the most beautiful things I've ever read. The way she paints a scene in your head, with just the right amount of descriptions to make you feel as though you're there yourself, without ever crossing the line into over-describing. I'm amazed.

A lot of people - myself included - have this shelved as retelling. However, I recommend not going into it expecting a Mulan retelling. Other reviewers have pointed out the differences, so I won't list them now, but don't go into it expecting a Mulan story-line. That's not what this is. With that being said, the story felt extremely Mulan-esque, if that makes any sense.

As for the other elements of the story, I enjoyed them, but I feel like I have already forgotten the majority of what happened. I wasn't a big fan of the romance

mostly because I reallyyy wanted Raiden to get a redemption arc, especially after reading the sequel. It was what we deserved.)

The plot was interesting and fast-paced, but rather predictable.

With that being said, my new goal in life is to write as beautifully as Renée Ahdieh. Woman has a freakin' GIFT.