Book Log

The Traitor's Game - Jennifer A. Nielsen - 4/20/24

Not a Wattpad published book
First book belonging to The Traitor's Game series

NOTHING IS AS IT SEEMS IN THE KINGDOM OF ANTORA.

Kestra Dallisor has spent the last three years in exile, but that does not stop her from being drawn back into the web of her father's dangerous politics. He's second-in-command to the despotic and seemingly immoral king, Lord Endrick. With his arsenal of Ironheart soldiers and vicious condors, Endrick rules the land of Antora with a cruel and bloody fist. Her father's position makes Kestra a valuable bargaining chip, which a group of rebels understands all too well--and they snatch Kestra from her carriage as she reluctantly travels home.

The kidnappers want her to retrieve the Olden Blade, a lost dagger they believe is the only weapon that can kill the power-mad king. But Kestra is not the obedient captive they expected. One of the rebels, Simon, struggles to fulfill his orders as Kestra attempts to foil their plans by any means necessary. As motives shift and secrets emerge, both Simon and Kestra will have to question what it is--and who it is--they're fighting for.

Jennifer A. Nielson introduces us to an unforgettable new hero and heroine in this electrifying series about a treacherous game of intrigue and loyalty, love, and all that one is willing to lose in order to win...the traitor's game.

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I was once again undoubtedly impressed by the writing style of Nielsen in the first installment of this series. Just the same way I loved each and every one of the Ascendance books, I loved this one too. The two perspectives of Kestra and Simon, who are on opposite sides of the fight, really bring a unique feel to this book. I haven't seen a dystopian novel spun quite like this before, and for that, Nielsen deserves my highest praise!

The story truly felt unique to me. It was a different kind of dystopia, a different kind of fantasy. I loved every single second of the adventure that was brought forth upon me, with memorable characters whose hands you long to hold until you close the book on the very last page.

I'd rate this novel 5/5 stars. I found every aspect of the story to be absolutely compelling. I loved the plot, the setting, the characters, everything. I wouldn't change a single thing about the set up or design of this story. It's perfect exactly the way that it is, and I'm sure I'll be reading it a second and maybe even third time in the years to come.