Rating:
Three sisters have been trained since birth to marry into three different kingdoms and bring them down form the inside so that their mother, Empress Margaraux, can rule the whole continent. But, things don’t always go according to plan, especially as it becomes obvious their mother hasn’t told them everything…
The worldbuilding here is simply outstanding. Every country has its own unique culture and belief system; every court is different, with different rules and costumes. Their monarchs have different personalities and their own way of doing things. The world feels real and you quickly get a sense of how things work at any given place.
I loved the pacing of this book. Each chapter moves the story forward, but we still have time to get to know the characters and the circumstances they are currently in.
The writing style is not overly descriptive, but it helps create a unique atmosphere. Connections between people are built gradually and seem genuine.
What I particularly like was how each country faced its own set of problems independently of what the Empress had planned. On top of that, while she is cunning other people are not stupid either. They suspect her daughters are up to something so they lie or purposefully withhold information.
The stakes are high, every word is analyzed, every look means something different. Alliances are made and promises broken every day.
All of this feels realistic – pieces on the chess board are moved carefully and one always needs to adjust their plans based on what their opponent does.
Political intrigues were presented brilliantly and are easily the best part of the story.
One small detail I was surprised by is the fact that characters own guns, a rear element in this kind of stories.
The only negative thing I can say about this book is that it slows down a little bit in the middle. Other than that, it was perfect.