Thank you to Edelweiss and Balzer & Bray for providing an ebook copy of The Crown's Game By: Evelyn Skye in exchange for an honest review.
The second I was finished reading The Crown's Game I really wanted to rate it 5 stars. However, the beginning of the novel was a bit slow for me. Even though it was a little slow it was still enjoyable. Also, the reason it was a little slow for me may have been due to the book or it may not have been. I read this book right after I finished The Raven King and I was left with a book hangover. Then I tried to read this one and picked up When We Collided instead. Then I had a mild book hangover from that one as well. So I just decided to just finish this one because reading something else first wasn't working. So it really could have just been me. Once the game in the book started though I got very into The Crown's Game and I finished reading it quickly.
#MeOrTheBook?
What originally drew to me The Crown's Game in the first place is that it's set in Russia. I haven't read many books set in Russia so it really piqued my interest to read a fantasy novel set there. The blend of historical Russia and magical world building was extremely well done. The characters were also very well done and vivid. I felt very strongly for Vika, Pasha, and Nikolai. Each of them have their own unique voice and I really felt for each of them. The romance was great for me, but there is a love triangle. I don't mind love triangles (I quite enjoy them at times.) if they are done well and this one was.
#HistoricalRussia+Magic
The Crown's Game, the actual game in the book, was really interesting and executed well. I love books with games like that in it. Like Throne of Glass, The Hunger Games, and etc. This book has quite a few beloved fantasy tropes, but it's also unique in it's own way.
#ExecutedWell
Overall The Crown's Game is an excellent book. I love the blend of historical Russia and magic. Everything from the world building, characters, and plot were on point. Even though the beginning was a little slow for me it picked up quickly and ended very well. The ending was great and a bit unexpected! By the end I was not ready for the book to be ending and I can't wait to read the next book. I have a few ideas as to where the story is headed next, but I bet I'll be surprised!
#EverythingOnPoint
I recommend The Crown's Game for fans of Throne of Glass and The Hunger Games. I also recommend this to any YA fantasy lover that doesn't mind a WELL DONE love triangle.
#GamesToTheDeath
Expected Publication Date: May 17, 2016
