I can see now why there were negative reviews on The Winner’s Curse. This book is focused on the romance between Kestrel and Arin; everything else is in the background. But for a story this heavy on the romance, I never was sold on their star-crossed love. There wasn’t any chemistry and real connection between them. They both were cold and distant. I personally don’t mind books, which are heavy on romance and light on fantasy, I even prefer this kind of books if the romance is well-done. Sadly in this case the romance didn’t work for me.
It’s a shame really, because Marie Rutkoski’s characterization is amazing. Her characters are multidimensional and ambiguous. And I usually love character-driven stories. She created interesting complex world. I especially love that this world is unique and different from ours, but at the same time it is similar in so many aspects. We don’t see fantastic creatures or supernatural abilities here. We see the Herrani and the Valorians with their painful past and present. We see real people who are forced to make difficult choices. This book is filled with politic, but I never was a fan of political intrigues.
In truth I don’t know who would love this book. The romance was weak and it won’t satisfy romance lovers, and there wasn’t enough political intrigues and world-building to impress those readers, who love fantasy.
Justine Eyre is a new to me narrator. In truth I wasn’t impressed by her performance. She has a quality to her voice that just lulled me to sleep. I still listened to the audiobook because it was the only way I could read at that time. I recommend you to listen to an audio sample before purchasing the audiobook.
However, all my friends urge me to continue with this series despite my issues. They say the story gets better. Well, I definitely hope it does.
I have the book on my shelf. Bought with coverlove impulse but just haven’t got to it yet. So many mixed reviews. Really disappointed that the world building wasn’t strong because thats a make-or-break for me.
For some reason this doesn’t appeal to me, but star-crossed romances aren’t usually my choice. They stress me out too much. My daughter did enjoy the series but it didn’t knock her socks off. Sorry to hear the story was underwhelming, Ksenia. Hope the rest of the series is better if you decide to continue with it. Wonderful review!
Aw I really liked book one but haven’t continued the series, sorry it didn’t wow you.
Well that’s a bummer. I loved this series and the romance and tbh I was surprised because I’m super picky and hype resistant lol & not really a fan of fantasy.
If you keep going I hope it improves for you but maybe it’s just not your thing.