Summary:
Raised in Karkov, a military, male-dominant kingdom, twins Natalia and Jillian know nothing but battle. When Jillian emerges as the dominant twin and apparent heir to the throne, Natalia, the softer and more diplomatic sister, ceases her military training. As Natalia prepares to marry the prince of her father's favored western ally, Jillian is set to become the first woman Lion of Karkov. But things don't go as planned when the older generation of warriors values her womb over her sword. Suddenly, the role Jillian has fought for all her life is slipping through her fingers . . . and she's not about to let it go without a fight.
At first, Jillian wants to destroy the young male warrior that the older generation favors. But soon, the two begin to fall for each other, and dark secrets behind Karkov's past come to light. Now Jillian finds herself in the unthinkable position of defending her former rival . . . and defying her father. Her defiance inspires a younger generation of warriors, who dub her the Lioness of Karkov.
Furious, her father ousts Jillian and the warriors who swore allegiance to her, setting in motion a chain of events that will disrupt everything he swore to protect. As innocent lands suffer invasion, greedy monarchies fall to revolution, and the wedding of the century threatens to live up to it's name, Jillian and Natalia must reckon with the consequences of love and war. When four nations converge on a battlefield, one sister must decide whether to embrace the life she always wanted - or stand up for the destiny that was never meant for her.
My Thoughts:
As soon as I got through the first few chapters, it was nearly impossible to put down. The events and places are beautifully described, and most of the characters fully develop, making me care about the characters. I honestly wish that this was split into a series, but I'll settle for it anyway.
Jillian is fierce and seemingly apathetic on the outside, but she cares so much for her sister and would do anything to protect her (which later leads to her downfall). Natalia is softer, and would much rather marry a prince and co-rule a country. Their father seems nice at first, but I grew to despise him the further that I read, especially when we learn the truth of what happened to their mother.
The enemies to lovers plot with Jillian and Odani is cute but the similar one with Natalia and Francis is not really developed enough as the former. I don't get the feeling that Francis would actually give up his crown, as his character was not as explored enough.
The battle scenes were some of my favorite parts to read. The imagery is so vivid and wonderfully done, making it feel like I was spectating.
The only thing that I cannot wrap my head around is Karkov. We meet the royal family, military, and workers, but there's little to no mention of civilians.
I would DEFINITELY recommend this book. It is a longer one (596 pages), but definitely worth it.
My Rating: 5 stars
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