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“With strong characters and vivid worldbuilding that refuses to oversimplify individuals, cultures, and the opposing forces they represent, this sequel to Court of Fives blends emotional intelligence, passionate idealism, and realpolitik in a plot ending at the cliff’s edge of revolutionary change. At once nuanced and thrilling—a worthy sequel.”
— Kirkus Reviews
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A worthy sequel, doubling down on the tension and politics and surpassing Court of Fives in suspense and depth of world-building.... a tense, dramatic adventure, raising the stakes and the potential for drastic consequences as the story barrels towards its conclusion.
— Barnes & Noble
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Jes makes for a worthy heroine, as bold and daring as she is endearing. One of the best things about this series is that the characters--heroes and baddies alike--are vividly real, their motives and emotions often fierce but always recognizable.
— Booklist
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The main character is the classic 'strong female warrior' archetype...and will remind most people of Katniss Everdeen.... The book deals with issues of family loyalty, standing up for one's beliefs, and self-discovery.... A solid addition to a high school collection.
— Voya
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Anyone who things Young Adult fiction can't successfully handle themes like a culture's endurance in defiance of colonialism, the myriad socio-economic factors leading toward revolution, or racial and/or gender inequality, needs to read these books.
— Fantasy Literature
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Stellar description and pacing. [Elliott's] eye for detail is extraordinary, and descriptions of court life are very evocative.
— Teenreads
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Kate Elliott adds to her fantastical Court of Fives series with Poisoned Blade, and fans won't be disappointed.
— Bustle
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* "Jes will remind readers of fearless Katniss with her skill and strategy for games. But it's the fascinating descriptions of traditions, royal interactions, and, of course, the intensities of the Fives that will enthrall readers most of all. Let the games continue!
— Booklist, starred review
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A gripping, original plot; vivid, complicated characters; and layered, convincingly detailed worldbuilding. A compelling look at racial and social identity wrapped in a page-turning adventure.
— Kirkus Review
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An imaginative journey.... Elliott creates an intricate and intriguing
story, conjuring a world of mysticism and centuries-old customs.
Jessamy's boldness and impulsiveness make her a striking heroine in a
male-dominated land.
— Publishers Weekly
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A high fantasy novel that explores race, class, and gender struggles in a patriarchal society.... Jessamy is loyal and strong female protagonist who fights against injustice. This trilogy opener will be a hit with readers who love action-packed fantasy adventures.
— School Library Journal
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Full of high-stakes adventure but also heartfelt musings on identity, family and colonization, this book presents a fantasy world that is refreshingly inspired by Greco-Roman and Egyptian cultures.
— NPR
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Haunting. Epic. Impassioned. Layered. Breathtaking. This isn't just a novel; it is a coup d'état of the soul. Prepare to be ravished by Kate Elliott's Court of Fives.
— Ann Aguirre, New York Times bestselling author of the Razorland trilogy
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Kate Elliott's magic and mastery is better than ever. Court of Fives enchanted me from start to finish, with characters and worlds that lingered long after I turned the final page.
— Marie Lu, New York Times bestselling author of the Legend series and the Young Elites series
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Fast-paced, tense, and riveting. I couldn't put it down, and you won't be able to either!
— Tamora Pierce, author of the Tortall series and the Circle of Magic series
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This book is amazing. Kate Elliott combines everything I love best in a YA novel. Jes is a killer protagonist, tough and capable, but also lost in her upbringing and faced with impossible choices that test her character and her beliefs.... This book will not fail you.
— Gail Carriger, New York Times bestselling author of the Parasol Protectorate series and the Finishing School series