The first undeniable fact Hollis knows is that a life beside King Jameson of Coroa would mean both power and adoration, two attributes that may finally appease her perpetually disappointed parents and the public. Despite the fact that her best friend has been more distant since the courtship with the king became more serious, Hollis’ elevated status would also improve the court’s opinions of Delia Grace, who many like to think of as unwelcome in Coroan society. The second thing Hollis knows is to be wary of Isoltens, the citizens of the country ruled by King Quinten, an icy and unforgiving man. So, when Hollis is asked by King Jameson to decide whether an Isolten family should be allowed to immigrate to Coroa and live with them in the castle, she chooses for them to stay, despite her lack of trust for them. What she is unaware of when making this decision is how much this family will eventually mean to her and, more importantly, the place their eldest son’s dazzling blue eyes will one day have in her heart.

Hollis’ character development throughout the novel is what makes it so well-written, with her association with Jameson being introduced as a pleasant and rewarding courtship until the cracks begin to show in their relationship. She also manages to find a friend in Valentina, the young queen of Isolte, who she is able to connect with better than any Isolten has, including King Quinten. Valentina is who she turns to once the excitement is over and the prospect of being queen seems like it might just end her.

Through making friends out of enemies and enemies out of friends, Hollis’ story is transfixing and surprisingly relatable for everyone who has ever felt trapped in a destiny they fear they do not want.

I recommend this book to those who have read other novels by Kiera Cass, such as The Selection or The Siren , and those who are not afraid of an ending very different from anything they could ever expect.