I think Aster has created life-like characters that make choices we can see reflected in our own lives. Everyone has their own motives and agenda that will keep you guessing until the very end. It’s a beautiful and mysterious setting that only adds to the ominous feeling of foreboding throughout the game.Įvery character is three-dimensional and morally grey, which makes the plot all the more interesting. Despite the danger lurking at every turn, the wonders of Lightlark make me want to visit. The picture that Alex Aster paints of Lightlark is magical and enthralling. Honestly, she’s pretty badass, and everyone loves to see strong female leads. We see a lot of the “chosen one” trope in YA fantasy, but Isla is very likable. All six rulers come to Lightlark knowing that one of them must die to save the other realms, and Isla is determined that it won’t be her. Isla has prepared her whole l ife for her chance to break the curse on her realm.

This much-hyped book had me really excited – and for good reason! It’s hard to go wrong with a game of intrigue and a nice old-fashioned love triangle, both of which Lightlark has.

More than just a game, to survive the Centennial, Isla must lie, cheat, and betray… even as love complicates everything. Every 100 years, the island of Lightlark appears to offer the six rulers one final chance to break the curses on their realms, and this time, it’s Isla’s turn. Isla Crown is the young ruler of Wildling – a realm of temptresses cursed to kill anyone they fall in love with.

Lightlark book 2