Author: Victoria Aveyard
Published: February 2015
Number of Pages: 320, Hardcover
Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Dystopia, Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal
Plot: The poverty stricken Reds are commoners, living under the rule of the Silvers, elite warriors with god-like powers.
To Mare Barrow, a 17-year-old Red girl from The Stilts, it looks like nothing will ever change.
Mare finds herself working in the Silver Palace, at the centre of
those she hates the most. She quickly discovers that, despite her red blood, she possesses a deadly power of her own. One that threatens to destroy Silver control.
But power is a dangerous game. And in this world divided by blood, who will win? (Goodreads.com)
Personal Thoughts: Just remember one thing while reading this book... TRUST NO-ONE! "Anyone can betray anyone" is sort of the tag line for most of the book and just remember that as you read!
This story was like a young-adult, mostly clean, version of Game of Thrones! Even though I don't really think Mare wants to be Queen at all, she does want change in her society. That's what she sets out to accomplish from the start!
Mare Barrow is just a petty thief growing up in the ghetto, what this author calls 'the Stilts' because all the houses are actually up on them. Her family, as well as many others also considered "reds" has already sent off 3 sons to a never-ending war with another territory. Mare is the next in line to be conscripted, until a twist of fate arrives, and his name is Cal.
She then finds herself surrounded by the Royal Family, hidden away under a brand new "silver" identity and betrothed to the youngest Prince, Maven. She uses her new found position to learn as much as she can, and to help our the Scarlet Guard as well in their fight to bring down the King.
From there, you'll have to read the story for all the juicy details! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the sequel! This one ended with somewhat of a cliffhanger!!
Ahead... quotes and possible spoilers! Be aware!
One of my favorite quotes from Mare in this story was, "This world is silver, but it is also gray. There is no black and white".
Also, one of my favorite characters & Mare's teacher at the castle, Julian says this; "This world is not your own. Learning to curtsy has not changed that. You don't understand the game we're playing... anyone can betray anyone," Then later in the conversation he goes on to add, "You're playing the game as someone's pawn." BOOM! He told her long before she figures out what's really going on! I love Julian, he was so profound and honest with Mare. It was kind of refreshing when everyone else just wanted her to pretend to be a Silver.
Lots more secrets and twists and turns come out in this story... but just know that "the dawn is coming for you all." Ha!
Recommended Age Level: 13+
Rating: 4.5
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