Day Leitao

A fake princess, a disgraced prince, an undeniable connection, a bit of magic, and unforgettable complex characters will keep you turning pages from cover to cover. Leitao did a great job of building a unique world, with magic, royalty, fae and "kindred souls". The idea that you find your love match through dreams, but don't necessarily know exactly who they are at first intrigued me. It brings a whole new meaning to dreaming about true love! Astra has lived such a unique life, raised to be a decoy princess, smart, and yet full of her own hopes and dreams despite her intended fate. Marlak wasn't what I was expecting for the "villain" of the story, but not in a bad way. I can totally understand why Astra would fall for him! My biggest complaint - that cliffhanger is a killer! I can't wait for book two.… (more)

**spoiler alert** Zora Sunborn grew up in the Dark Valley, a place of punishment for the ancestors of those who had dealt with dark magic, a prison of sorts. In a way the Dark Valley residents are ahead because they grew up fighting for survival. They are what keep the darkness at bay from the rest of the kingdom.

For the first time someone from the Dark Valley will be allowed to compete in the Royal Games, a competition held every 3 years and this year is even more rare as the prize is the Blood Cup. In a matter of unfortunate circumstances and petty revenge, Zora ends up taking her ex-boyfriend's spot to represent her people. Zora is someone you feel for from the beginning. She makes friendships along the way with girls her age and other competitors and it is nice to see that not everyone is out to get her. Also it is refreshing to see she is not boy crazy.

This book includes court intrigue, courting games, and three princes. I loved that this book didn’t waste your time with scenes you didn’t need. It got straight to the point and it was very addicting. I read it all in one sitting.

Can’t wait for The Curse and the Prince… (more)