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Marie Rutkoski

The Winner's Curse

"The Winner's Curse" by Marie Rutkoski is a captivating young adult novel that explores themes of power, privilege, and love in a richly imagined world. The story is set in the fictional world of Valoria, where a wealthy ruling class, the Herrani, controls a vast empire through its monopoly on a highly addictive drug, called opium. The protagonist, Kestrel, is the daughter of a prominent Valorian general, who struggles to reconcile her love for music, a passion associated with the Herrani, with her duty to her country and family. Kestrel's life takes a dramatic turn when she purchases Arin, a Herrani slave, at an auction. As Kestrel gets to know Arin, she discovers that he is not only intelligent and resourceful but also shares her love for music. As their relationship deepens, Kestrel finds herself torn between her growing feelings for Arin and her loyalty to her country. Meanwhile, Arin harbors a secret plan to overthrow the Valorian oppressors, and Kestrel's actions may have unintended consequences that could alter the course of history. Rutkoski's writing is elegant and precise, with a keen attention to detail that brings the world of Valoria to life. The characters are complex and well-developed, with their own motivations, desires, and flaws. Kestrel, in particular, is a compelling protagonist who challenges gender norms and expectations, using her intelligence and cunning to navigate a world dominated by men. The Winner's Curse is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, romance, and political intrigue. It raises important questions about the nature of power, the ethics of slavery, and the consequences of our actions. The book is the first in a trilogy, followed by The Winner's Crime and The Winner's Kiss, which continue to explore Kestrel and Arin's relationship and the political upheaval in Valoria. Overall, The Winner's Curse is a must-read for anyone looking for a beautifully written and intellectually stimulating young adult novel.