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Fortune's Kiss
The legendary Fortune’s Kiss has returned to Ciudad Milagro for the first time in ten years. The magical gambling house shows up twice a year in a new city during the solstices to lure those worthy enough to wager their souls for wealth, the realization of their greatest desires, and, even, immortality.
Known by many names throughout the years, it returns to Milagro as El Beso de la Fortuna . . . and the game is Lotería. And best friends Mayté Robles and Lorena (Lo) de León are determined to change their lives, escape the dangerous men who threaten them, and gain riches.
Mayté, the sole daughter of the disgraced Robles family, wishes to leave her family and become a successful painter, while Lo suffers at the hands of her powerful and abusive father and seeks to find her mother, who escaped to Fortune’s Kiss years ago but never returned.
When Fortune’s Kiss finally returns to their city, the pair follow on their childhood blood pact to enter the gaming salon. But once inside, Mayté and Lo quickly realize that beneath the marvelous glamour, the salon is hiding dangerous secrets and the house always wins. And the game of Lotería is not the children’s game they grew up playing—it is a deadly lottery of chance.
With the help of a young, handsome croupier, the girls embark on a mission to unravel the mystery of the salon’s magic, find Lo’s mother, and try to win a nearly impossible game as their friendship is put under the greatest of tests.
Known by many names throughout the years, it returns to Milagro as El Beso de la Fortuna . . . and the game is Lotería. And best friends Mayté Robles and Lorena (Lo) de León are determined to change their lives, escape the dangerous men who threaten them, and gain riches.
Mayté, the sole daughter of the disgraced Robles family, wishes to leave her family and become a successful painter, while Lo suffers at the hands of her powerful and abusive father and seeks to find her mother, who escaped to Fortune’s Kiss years ago but never returned.
When Fortune’s Kiss finally returns to their city, the pair follow on their childhood blood pact to enter the gaming salon. But once inside, Mayté and Lo quickly realize that beneath the marvelous glamour, the salon is hiding dangerous secrets and the house always wins. And the game of Lotería is not the children’s game they grew up playing—it is a deadly lottery of chance.
With the help of a young, handsome croupier, the girls embark on a mission to unravel the mystery of the salon’s magic, find Lo’s mother, and try to win a nearly impossible game as their friendship is put under the greatest of tests.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published November 12, 2024
16 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
February 12, 2025
I received a copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Fortunes Kiss is a dark fantasy read perfect for fans of Caraval.
We follow best friends Mayté and Lo, who made a blood oath years ago to play the magical game Fortunes Kiss when it next magically appears in their hometown. When it suddenly arrives, the girls will stop at nothing to play the game, not knowing just how dangerous and soul destroying the odds are.
Mayté is from a disgraced family after her father gambled away their fortunes, and she longs to become a painter. Her family doesn't care for or protect her, and her only chance at freedom and success is to win the game.
Lo is from a wealthy family, but her mother disappeared a decade ago, and Lo is convinced she ran away to Fortunes Kiss to try to get herself and her children away from her abusive husband. But upon her leaving, this abuse turned onto Lo, and Lo desperately wants to not only find her mother but also get herself and her sisters out from under his rule.
When the girls enter the game and face the other contestants, it's made clear just how deceitful the 'house' is, and the odds are definitely not in their favour. The girls fight to unravel a mystery, win the game, protect each other, find Los's mother, and escape alive.
This was such a gripping read from start to finish and, at times, made my head spin with the ruthlessness and darkness of the magic within the game. I was rooting for both girls to win and found the ending satisfying and clever.
Fortunes Kiss is a dark fantasy read perfect for fans of Caraval.
We follow best friends Mayté and Lo, who made a blood oath years ago to play the magical game Fortunes Kiss when it next magically appears in their hometown. When it suddenly arrives, the girls will stop at nothing to play the game, not knowing just how dangerous and soul destroying the odds are.
Mayté is from a disgraced family after her father gambled away their fortunes, and she longs to become a painter. Her family doesn't care for or protect her, and her only chance at freedom and success is to win the game.
Lo is from a wealthy family, but her mother disappeared a decade ago, and Lo is convinced she ran away to Fortunes Kiss to try to get herself and her children away from her abusive husband. But upon her leaving, this abuse turned onto Lo, and Lo desperately wants to not only find her mother but also get herself and her sisters out from under his rule.
When the girls enter the game and face the other contestants, it's made clear just how deceitful the 'house' is, and the odds are definitely not in their favour. The girls fight to unravel a mystery, win the game, protect each other, find Los's mother, and escape alive.
This was such a gripping read from start to finish and, at times, made my head spin with the ruthlessness and darkness of the magic within the game. I was rooting for both girls to win and found the ending satisfying and clever.
November 16, 2024
This is a dark upper YA novel. This has all the tension and moral dilemmas that fans of Squid Game would appreciate, wrapped up in a story about friendship, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to for a shot at freedom. The book brings an alluring Mexican-inspired fantasy to life with rich descriptions, supernatural undercurrents, and the sinister allure of El Beso de la Fortuna. At the heart of the story are Mayté and Lo—two friends with complex family dynamics and even more complex motives. In the beginning of the story, we get to know our protagonists and their families to get a better feel for their motivations and the complications surrounding them.
The best part of the story is when these two gain access to Fortune's Kiss, the magical gambling house, which is just as much a character as any of the people in the story. It is a glamorous, elusive, dangerous entity steeped in secrets and bargains. I loved how Clement sets the tone immediately; from the moment Mayté and Lo step into the salon, there’s a sense of foreboding that only deepens as they realize they’re in over their heads. They soon realize that this is a vicious lottery of souls, which is a brutal reminder of how tempting it is to gamble with fate, despite the terrible consequences.
There is a rich sense of history woven into this setting. The Spanish language and cultural nuances create an immersive, but eerie world that feels both familiar and uncanny as magic slips into the setting. Clement’s prose flows beautifully, adding to the atmosphere without slowing down the story.
This is upper YA at its best—dark, complex, and full of suspense. A highly recommended read for anyone who loves stories where the magical and the real blend together, and where friendship is just as powerful (and perilous) as any gamble.
Thanks so much to TBR and Beyond Book Tours, the author, and Union Square Co for the complimentary copy and the opportunity to read and review. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
The best part of the story is when these two gain access to Fortune's Kiss, the magical gambling house, which is just as much a character as any of the people in the story. It is a glamorous, elusive, dangerous entity steeped in secrets and bargains. I loved how Clement sets the tone immediately; from the moment Mayté and Lo step into the salon, there’s a sense of foreboding that only deepens as they realize they’re in over their heads. They soon realize that this is a vicious lottery of souls, which is a brutal reminder of how tempting it is to gamble with fate, despite the terrible consequences.
There is a rich sense of history woven into this setting. The Spanish language and cultural nuances create an immersive, but eerie world that feels both familiar and uncanny as magic slips into the setting. Clement’s prose flows beautifully, adding to the atmosphere without slowing down the story.
This is upper YA at its best—dark, complex, and full of suspense. A highly recommended read for anyone who loves stories where the magical and the real blend together, and where friendship is just as powerful (and perilous) as any gamble.
Thanks so much to TBR and Beyond Book Tours, the author, and Union Square Co for the complimentary copy and the opportunity to read and review. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
March 15, 2025
A unique story about survival set in a magical gambling booth. The setting was extremely dark.
It wasn’t hard to root for both FMCs in the beginning. Both had pretty despicable lives and just had to get out of there.
I think Lo’s character was the most developed. Mayté ended up fitting in the regular YA character but Lo was something else. She gave villain vibes and I actually really loved reading about that.
Everything about the MMCs were extremely underwhelming. They were important to the storyline but were underdeveloped. If you’re looking for romance, this isn’t the book for you.
It would’ve been closer to 4 stars had it not been the super predictable twist at 75% in. But I was satisfied with the ending, especially for Lo.
It wasn’t hard to root for both FMCs in the beginning. Both had pretty despicable lives and just had to get out of there.
I think Lo’s character was the most developed. Mayté ended up fitting in the regular YA character but Lo was something else. She gave villain vibes and I actually really loved reading about that.
Everything about the MMCs were extremely underwhelming. They were important to the storyline but were underdeveloped. If you’re looking for romance, this isn’t the book for you.
It would’ve been closer to 4 stars had it not been the super predictable twist at 75% in. But I was satisfied with the ending, especially for Lo.
October 16, 2024
I've been following Amber Clement since we met up back in 2017, and was so excited when her debut novel, Fortune's Kiss, was announced, and was so excited to get an early copy! And I am in love with how much her writing has grown over the past few years and loved this haunting dark fantasy story full of tension, secrets, and great prose that made it difficult to put down! It's got the vibes of magical competition like Caraval and desperate people playing children's games turned deadly like Squid Game.
The story follows two friends, Maria Theresa Robles (Mayté) and Lorena de Leon (Lo), who are in very unfavorable circumstances and hope that the Fortune's Kiss gambling house can turn things around. Once inside, they find that it's going to be much more difficult than they could have ever imagined with a magically lethal Lotería game. And yes, it's very deadly, plenty of blood and on-page death in this one.
Mayté is an artist who's family has fallen from the upper class and has a more optimistic look of the world of the two girls. She's using Fortune's Kiss as a way to get out of poverty and wants her artist dreams to come true instead of feeling useless to her family. Lo has the looks to grab any suitor of choice, but she has to deal with a very abusive father (and we see this on-page btw). Due to her mother being lost in Fortune's Kiss, she has a darker heart and more willing to cross lines in order to make her dreams of escaping her father's abuse come true. I will say that Lo is my favorite of the two due to her wit, but Mayté was great as well. Their changing development and dynamic was a pleasure to witness throughout the story and I have to say, made the ending that much more worth it.
While there is some romance, it doesn't take over the plot, or divert from our main friendship pair and their relationship, which is a breath of fresh air in a category where often, the love plot can easily take over everything else.
The rest of the characters were well rounded and even if they only there for a couple of scenes, it was more than enough to get an idea of who they were, which isn't easy to do. And it made some of their exits heart crushing. The key is that EVERYONE is keeping secrets, even our two main leads.
I love the world building in this book. This takes place in a fantasy world inspired by Mexican culture along with Spanish words and phrases scattered throughout in a way even non-speakers can understand. Thanks to the immersive and descriptive (and dare I say lyrical) prose, I felt like I was right in the middle of the action the whole way through. Plus the voice was youthful and distinct on both of the POV characters. Plus, it maintains a fast pace that keeps the tension flowing and me anticipating what would happen with every page, especially with all the twists that keep coming. Yet for all the darkness, there's almost always a glimmer of hope.
The ending was satisfying and I can't wait to see what Amber Clement gives to us next!
*I received an ARC from Union Square & Co. All opinions are my own.*
The story follows two friends, Maria Theresa Robles (Mayté) and Lorena de Leon (Lo), who are in very unfavorable circumstances and hope that the Fortune's Kiss gambling house can turn things around. Once inside, they find that it's going to be much more difficult than they could have ever imagined with a magically lethal Lotería game. And yes, it's very deadly, plenty of blood and on-page death in this one.
Mayté is an artist who's family has fallen from the upper class and has a more optimistic look of the world of the two girls. She's using Fortune's Kiss as a way to get out of poverty and wants her artist dreams to come true instead of feeling useless to her family. Lo has the looks to grab any suitor of choice, but she has to deal with a very abusive father (and we see this on-page btw). Due to her mother being lost in Fortune's Kiss, she has a darker heart and more willing to cross lines in order to make her dreams of escaping her father's abuse come true. I will say that Lo is my favorite of the two due to her wit, but Mayté was great as well. Their changing development and dynamic was a pleasure to witness throughout the story and I have to say, made the ending that much more worth it.
While there is some romance, it doesn't take over the plot, or divert from our main friendship pair and their relationship, which is a breath of fresh air in a category where often, the love plot can easily take over everything else.
The rest of the characters were well rounded and even if they only there for a couple of scenes, it was more than enough to get an idea of who they were, which isn't easy to do. And it made some of their exits heart crushing. The key is that EVERYONE is keeping secrets, even our two main leads.
I love the world building in this book. This takes place in a fantasy world inspired by Mexican culture along with Spanish words and phrases scattered throughout in a way even non-speakers can understand. Thanks to the immersive and descriptive (and dare I say lyrical) prose, I felt like I was right in the middle of the action the whole way through. Plus the voice was youthful and distinct on both of the POV characters. Plus, it maintains a fast pace that keeps the tension flowing and me anticipating what would happen with every page, especially with all the twists that keep coming. Yet for all the darkness, there's almost always a glimmer of hope.
The ending was satisfying and I can't wait to see what Amber Clement gives to us next!
*I received an ARC from Union Square & Co. All opinions are my own.*
January 15, 2026
The issue with books that take a concept that has been done before many times and promise to execute it with a twist, is that 9 out of 10 times it does not, in fact, feel any different than the previous ones.
I was a bit disappointing but at this point I think if would have been super surprising to actually get what I was hoping for.
A different setting yet still whimsical, yet the actual magical competition was not exciting. The characters started off interesting but their personalities never got past the initial structure we were given; they didn't feel well developed, more like stereotypical ones with a few quirks.
My main issue is still the competition. A closed setting and different games, a game-master that acts mysterious, a few tricks to show the participants the stakes are high. The usual formula. But the actual games didn't catch my attention and a lot of the rules of the competition in general felt either non sensical or too obviously made up specifically to further the plot in the way the author wanted, which... i mean, sure, but it doesn't feel right. I rather have a bittersweet ending for some characters or to have better planned rules that won't feel totally convenient. It pulls me out of the story.
I was a bit disappointing but at this point I think if would have been super surprising to actually get what I was hoping for.
A different setting yet still whimsical, yet the actual magical competition was not exciting. The characters started off interesting but their personalities never got past the initial structure we were given; they didn't feel well developed, more like stereotypical ones with a few quirks.
My main issue is still the competition. A closed setting and different games, a game-master that acts mysterious, a few tricks to show the participants the stakes are high. The usual formula. But the actual games didn't catch my attention and a lot of the rules of the competition in general felt either non sensical or too obviously made up specifically to further the plot in the way the author wanted, which... i mean, sure, but it doesn't feel right. I rather have a bittersweet ending for some characters or to have better planned rules that won't feel totally convenient. It pulls me out of the story.
July 22, 2025
When going into this book, I didn't realize just how young adulty it would be like. Young adult stories can be great, but with this premise, I would've enjoyed it more if it was more fantasy horror for adults. I loved the idea of being able to play in the game and chance ur dream to gain all you've wanted. Real life speaking, though, I would never do that. But it was fun and creative. I wasn't able to connect with any of the characters as I would've liked to.
January 4, 2025
My first read of the year! I loved it, and the fact that this is Ambers first book! Great job!
November 14, 2024
This was a unique and thrilling story set in a world where wishes can be won whenever the Fortune’s Kiss shows up in your town. But it’s never known for sure when or where it will show up. Mayte and Luna are best friends who have planned to go and win together. As far as they know only two people can come out the winners. All the reasons they want to go get worse and worse until the day they are actually going, when both feel they are at the point with no other choice.
Once they are taken in and chosen, actually before they are chosen, they learn how steep the risks are. But both know the only way they can get what they want and hopefully be safe is to try. Not only are the risks high, but the games themselves are still basically games of chance. There isn’t really strategy and skill like other competition books, this is literally like a game of Bingo or the Loteria as they call it. Also both girls meet some handsome and mysterious helpers in the house. They learn that the past and how this game came to be, and must figure out how to use that knowledge to win the game.
Of course there are other people they know who show up, since it did come to their town. Some people that they know, respect, and some people that are dangerous or despicable in other ways. I liked the way the author wove both girls’ past stories into how the house worked trying to either help them or keep them from winning at times. A great story that had me speeding all the way through to see how they could win and save themselves as well.
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
Once they are taken in and chosen, actually before they are chosen, they learn how steep the risks are. But both know the only way they can get what they want and hopefully be safe is to try. Not only are the risks high, but the games themselves are still basically games of chance. There isn’t really strategy and skill like other competition books, this is literally like a game of Bingo or the Loteria as they call it. Also both girls meet some handsome and mysterious helpers in the house. They learn that the past and how this game came to be, and must figure out how to use that knowledge to win the game.
Of course there are other people they know who show up, since it did come to their town. Some people that they know, respect, and some people that are dangerous or despicable in other ways. I liked the way the author wove both girls’ past stories into how the house worked trying to either help them or keep them from winning at times. A great story that had me speeding all the way through to see how they could win and save themselves as well.
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
November 4, 2024
This was a great young adult fantasy! I enjoyed following Mayté and Lo in this story. I loved the world building and deadly competition setting and I quickly found myself invested in the characters and story of this book.
Read this if you like:
📖 Competition settings
📖 Dual POV
📖 Friends that will do anything for each other
📖 Caraval & Hotel Magnifique
Thank you to Union Square & Co for the gifted arc.
Read this if you like:
📖 Competition settings
📖 Dual POV
📖 Friends that will do anything for each other
📖 Caraval & Hotel Magnifique
Thank you to Union Square & Co for the gifted arc.
November 16, 2024
This is a spellbinding YA fantasy set in the world of Ciudad Milagro, where an old gambling den known as Fortune’s Kiss draws in people with promises of dreams but demands steep prices in return.
The blend of Latin American cultural elements and magical, high-stakes competition made this an emotionally charged, immersive read. The writing captures both the glamour and the sinister nature of the den, making it difficult to put down. Each twist kept me guessing as the stakes climbed higher for Mayté and Lorena
The blend of Latin American cultural elements and magical, high-stakes competition made this an emotionally charged, immersive read. The writing captures both the glamour and the sinister nature of the den, making it difficult to put down. Each twist kept me guessing as the stakes climbed higher for Mayté and Lorena
August 27, 2024
Such a fun book. Think squid game and hunger games but Mexican. And Stef edited it so proud!
March 1, 2025
*ARC
I was pleasantly surprised by this book! I picked it up on a whim, with a bunch of others, and started reading without knowing much of anything about it. I knew I was going to love it as soon as I started reading.
A mysterious gambling house called Fortune's Kiss has returned to Milagro, a city in a magical Mexican-inspired land. Selected contestants have the opportunity to make their dreams and wishes come true if they win in a high stakes game of Lotería. However, playing the game comes at a steep cost and losers return to the world as shells of their former selves or never return at all. Mayté and Lo are best friends, and they made a promise that they would enter into Fortune's Kiss and play together if it returned. Each girl has their own dire reasons for entering into Fortune's Kiss, but competing in the game may tear their friendship apart as it brings out the worst and best of them.
I'm a sucker for carnival/circus-like themed stories, so the book already started on a good standing for me. Although I found the rules of the house and games to be wishy-washy and changed to further the plot, I thought the game still worked as the past of the house was revealed. The story is told from Mayté's perspective and Lo's perspective. I enjoyed following the twist and turns of their friendship as they competed in the game.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book! I picked it up on a whim, with a bunch of others, and started reading without knowing much of anything about it. I knew I was going to love it as soon as I started reading.
A mysterious gambling house called Fortune's Kiss has returned to Milagro, a city in a magical Mexican-inspired land. Selected contestants have the opportunity to make their dreams and wishes come true if they win in a high stakes game of Lotería. However, playing the game comes at a steep cost and losers return to the world as shells of their former selves or never return at all. Mayté and Lo are best friends, and they made a promise that they would enter into Fortune's Kiss and play together if it returned. Each girl has their own dire reasons for entering into Fortune's Kiss, but competing in the game may tear their friendship apart as it brings out the worst and best of them.
I'm a sucker for carnival/circus-like themed stories, so the book already started on a good standing for me. Although I found the rules of the house and games to be wishy-washy and changed to further the plot, I thought the game still worked as the past of the house was revealed. The story is told from Mayté's perspective and Lo's perspective. I enjoyed following the twist and turns of their friendship as they competed in the game.
October 19, 2024
What a spectacular debut! Fortune's Kiss truly pulled me in for the ride of my life. I was completely GAGGED. This book had me on the edge of my seat and was literally in tears once I turned the last page.
This YA Fantasy story felt like Caraval meets the Hunger Games with some horror and a Latinx twist!
I loved the two female main characters, Mayte and Lo, and really enjoyed following their characters arcs throughout the book. We have Latinx characters, y'all!! I loved the magic and the mystery and the Mexican culture that was interwoven, especially the implementation of the Lotería game! It was so fun to read and experience, and maybe a bit scary... There were bits of dark elements in the story that I was not expecting, but I felt added to such a compelling plot.
Amber Clement has a knack for writing and story-telling, and I'm so looking forward to reading more from her. Fortune's Kiss hits shelves on November 12, so make sure to pre-order, grab your copy, or request from your library! ✨
This YA Fantasy story felt like Caraval meets the Hunger Games with some horror and a Latinx twist!
I loved the two female main characters, Mayte and Lo, and really enjoyed following their characters arcs throughout the book. We have Latinx characters, y'all!! I loved the magic and the mystery and the Mexican culture that was interwoven, especially the implementation of the Lotería game! It was so fun to read and experience, and maybe a bit scary... There were bits of dark elements in the story that I was not expecting, but I felt added to such a compelling plot.
Amber Clement has a knack for writing and story-telling, and I'm so looking forward to reading more from her. Fortune's Kiss hits shelves on November 12, so make sure to pre-order, grab your copy, or request from your library! ✨
February 22, 2025
The synopsis for this is super underwhelming. The book is leagues better than you're lead to believe based on the synopsis. I thought hm, two young girls gambling and it's dangerous? Sounds cool, and then people started dying and I was like damn, this is great! There were twists, turns, and even though I sort of pieced together what happened near the end, with the big twist, I liked that the book naturally led me to that conclusion and that it didn't come out of left field. It made sense, and that made me love the book even more. There were of course sad moments, but some got rectified and of course I cried over it like a baby. I really didn't expect to like this book as much as I found I did by the time I was done with it. Shout-out to myself for picking up a random book at the library because this was phenomenal.
November 20, 2025
Mayte and her bff Lo have long dreamt of competing in Fortune's Kiss, a mystical game house that comes to their town every 10 years or so. Mayte wants to use the magic prize to reclaim her family's fortune while Lo wants to use it to find her absent mother. When they finally have the chance to compete though, nothing is what they thought it would be and they realize they'll be lucky to escape with their lives, although it may cost them their souls!
This really wasn't my kind of book - blood and violence, unlikeable characters, high stakes games, unknown villain, etc. - but I think it was well done for what it is. People who are familiar with the Latinx game of Loteria may appreciate its inclusion in the story.
This really wasn't my kind of book - blood and violence, unlikeable characters, high stakes games, unknown villain, etc. - but I think it was well done for what it is. People who are familiar with the Latinx game of Loteria may appreciate its inclusion in the story.
November 1, 2025
Wowee! This one has so much going for it! Lotería cards that come alive and it’s challenge or guardian when the famous Fortune’s Kiss comes to town to grant your deepest desire! Friendship, secret love, lost souls, game makers, magic, and cuadernism representation.
Truly a great fantasy that asks the reader to question what is real, what is desired, and who can REALLY be trusted? Truly a page ripping plot twist that I wasn’t ready for… great writing.
Everyone has their villain era, but one has their redeeming moment to possibly save them all from the horrors that wait inside!
Truly a great fantasy that asks the reader to question what is real, what is desired, and who can REALLY be trusted? Truly a page ripping plot twist that I wasn’t ready for… great writing.
Everyone has their villain era, but one has their redeeming moment to possibly save them all from the horrors that wait inside!
November 8, 2024
This is a story full of fantasy and adventure that brings you into the magical world of Ciudad Milagro.
The story revolves around the legendary gambling house, Fortune’s Kiss, which reappears in the city after a decade, offering the chance to fulfill one’s deepest desires at a perilous cost.
Mayté Robles and Lorena (Lo) de León, are characters with an interesting backstory. Which causes them to take a chance all while their friendship is tested as they navigate the dangerous game of Lotería,
They uncovering the dark secrets of the gambling house.
The plot is well written and will keep you entertained. I think you will enjoy reading this
It’s a fast and easy read
The story revolves around the legendary gambling house, Fortune’s Kiss, which reappears in the city after a decade, offering the chance to fulfill one’s deepest desires at a perilous cost.
Mayté Robles and Lorena (Lo) de León, are characters with an interesting backstory. Which causes them to take a chance all while their friendship is tested as they navigate the dangerous game of Lotería,
They uncovering the dark secrets of the gambling house.
The plot is well written and will keep you entertained. I think you will enjoy reading this
It’s a fast and easy read
January 12, 2025
4.5 stars
Absolutely lovely story with a lot of twists that kept me wanting to know what would happen next
Absolutely lovely story with a lot of twists that kept me wanting to know what would happen next
April 30, 2025
Caraval on crack
July 2, 2025
3.5 stars ⭐️
July 5, 2025
I loved this book so much! I didn’t realize how much I would need to translate to English, which made it inconvenient at times when I would have to stop reading to go onto Google translate. But the story was worth it in the end!
December 31, 2024
My last read of 2024, and oh boy was this a disappointment.
The only reason this book isn’t a one-star for me is because I saw the potential. More specifically, the writing on a line level wasn’t bad, and I appreciated the author’s attempt to weave in Latinx culture (though I do wish she’d provided more context clues with some words she used).
I’m usually a sucker for any and all books that feature a magical competition, but this book dropped the ball so hard in that aspect. The rules were never explained, as if all the characters (and the author) were making them up as they went along. It didn’t make sense why some things were considered cheating and other things (like murder outside the rounds) were not. Fortune’s Kiss was supposed to be a whimsical game, but it honestly came across like a circus (derogatory).
On top of that, our two POV characters hardly did anything in regards to the game—up until the last round or two, they just sat around and watched other people die. And when they eventually got information about the game, it was only because the cute boys who worked there chose to give it to them. (Or they just willed themselves into getting the information they needed.) Lo and Mayte were passive the majority of this book, which I didn’t like given they were supposed to be fighting for better futures for themselves.
In addition, Mayte and Lo’s relationship was…all over the place, and not in a good way. Obviously friends have their highs and lows with each other, but the lows Mayte and Lo experienced with one another (especially from Lo’s perspective) rarely made any sense to me. Their personalities also shifted in ways that were jarring, imo.
Also, while we’re talking about characters, most of the male side characters / potential love interests sounded the same to me, to where their personalities blended together. Also also, the villain arcs, especially the last big villain reveal…I felt like that could’ve been handled better in the end (which I explain more in my spoilers section below).
There were quite a few twists in this book, and I liked a couple of them when they first popped up. But then the more the author explained them, the worse they seemed to land for me. So that was also a bummer.
The actual writing was pretty good, to where I would consider reading another work by this author in the future. Especially since this was not only a debut book, but an IP work. Maybe with more practice, and with her own ideas, her storytelling will improve.
But I commend the effort here, and I’m glad most readers seem to enjoy this book. It just wasn’t for me.
NOTES I TOOK WHILE READING:
The only reason this book isn’t a one-star for me is because I saw the potential. More specifically, the writing on a line level wasn’t bad, and I appreciated the author’s attempt to weave in Latinx culture (though I do wish she’d provided more context clues with some words she used).
I’m usually a sucker for any and all books that feature a magical competition, but this book dropped the ball so hard in that aspect. The rules were never explained, as if all the characters (and the author) were making them up as they went along. It didn’t make sense why some things were considered cheating and other things (like murder outside the rounds) were not. Fortune’s Kiss was supposed to be a whimsical game, but it honestly came across like a circus (derogatory).
On top of that, our two POV characters hardly did anything in regards to the game—up until the last round or two, they just sat around and watched other people die. And when they eventually got information about the game, it was only because the cute boys who worked there chose to give it to them. (Or they just willed themselves into getting the information they needed.) Lo and Mayte were passive the majority of this book, which I didn’t like given they were supposed to be fighting for better futures for themselves.
In addition, Mayte and Lo’s relationship was…all over the place, and not in a good way. Obviously friends have their highs and lows with each other, but the lows Mayte and Lo experienced with one another (especially from Lo’s perspective) rarely made any sense to me. Their personalities also shifted in ways that were jarring, imo.
Also, while we’re talking about characters, most of the male side characters / potential love interests sounded the same to me, to where their personalities blended together. Also also, the villain arcs, especially the last big villain reveal…I felt like that could’ve been handled better in the end (which I explain more in my spoilers section below).
There were quite a few twists in this book, and I liked a couple of them when they first popped up. But then the more the author explained them, the worse they seemed to land for me. So that was also a bummer.
The actual writing was pretty good, to where I would consider reading another work by this author in the future. Especially since this was not only a debut book, but an IP work. Maybe with more practice, and with her own ideas, her storytelling will improve.
But I commend the effort here, and I’m glad most readers seem to enjoy this book. It just wasn’t for me.
NOTES I TOOK WHILE READING:
February 27, 2025
I want to write a debut novel as good as this one.
August 31, 2024
Two desperate BFFs enter a magical gambling den, knowing that only one may exit victorious. They and the other contestants go in for different reasons, often with deadly consequences. And as the games progresses, secrets come out, that may affect their long standing friendship. And the question remains, will they emerge with the lives and loves intact? This was such an exciting read, bringing me into a whole different world. Lots of Night Circus vibes, but way darker, in a good way.
I received an arc from the publisher but all opinions are my own.
I received an arc from the publisher but all opinions are my own.
October 8, 2024
If you like books like Phantasma, Caraval, or shows like squid game, I’d recommend this one! It’s a fun blend of running away to join a deadly competition where you bargain your soul for your dreams. This follows two best friends who would do anything for each other. It was a bit dramatic at times but overall I enjoyed this story. Excited to see what the author writes next
February 5, 2025
4⭐️
If you like Caraval and Phantasma, you'll like this. It's at times a little darker, but still YA. Very little romance. I believe this is a standalone, so the author does a good job wrapping up in less than 400 pages.
Fortunes Kiss has a lot of good elements. I did find Mayte and Lo a little annoying at times. I feel like the characters could have been developed a little bit more, especially side characters Carlos and Dominic.
It's also rich in Hispanic culture, which certain phrases had me using Google translate. But it comes alive and is immersive with descriptions from the author, giving the book a unique twist. The descriptions for the food alone made me hungry. 😆
Unlike a lot of trial game books, there aren't any puzzles or challenges to complete. It's a game similar to Bingo, and you have to be careful with what your wording and what you wager.
If you like Caraval and Phantasma, you'll like this. It's at times a little darker, but still YA. Very little romance. I believe this is a standalone, so the author does a good job wrapping up in less than 400 pages.
Fortunes Kiss has a lot of good elements. I did find Mayte and Lo a little annoying at times. I feel like the characters could have been developed a little bit more, especially side characters Carlos and Dominic.
It's also rich in Hispanic culture, which certain phrases had me using Google translate. But it comes alive and is immersive with descriptions from the author, giving the book a unique twist. The descriptions for the food alone made me hungry. 😆
Unlike a lot of trial game books, there aren't any puzzles or challenges to complete. It's a game similar to Bingo, and you have to be careful with what your wording and what you wager.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2025
this book had a great premise. i loved the idea that it was built on but the execution felt lackluster and poor.
1. Lo. i hated her with every ounce of my being. (spoilers ahead) her sudden personality switch made no sense, going from "i'm going to save my sisters and help my best friend" to "everyone can die 🖤🐺" AND THEN KILLING TWO PEOPLE didn't make any sense with her character or with the story. furthermore the fact that every. single. man. was in love with her got annoying SO fast. every other page was full of some random dude hitting on her and her liking it. yes.... i LOVE catcalling and sexual harassment as well. and she gets upset when someone likes her friend for a change. she needed to grow up and get a life bc her entire character was "hey im pretty" (also, the banker was not all that, he was a plank a wood and a disgrace of a love interest but he's what you deserve so i'm happy you ended up with him)
2. alejandro. bud deserved better... that's all i have to say (stop because his love story was SO cute they actually had so much chemistry and ugh im so mad that Lo did him like that. (SPOILERS) just because ONE guy didn't hate, shun, and ignore your friend does NOT mean you get jealous and KILL HIM OMG SHUT UP, your friend deserves happiness stop being a duche bag istg)
3. Carlos was also done so dirty (SPOILERS: also by Lo, dude was prepared to lay down his life for you and YOU LED HIM ON WHY ARE WE KISSING PEOPLE WE DONT LIKE FOR NO REASON! he wouldn't give you info for the kiss so why are we being rude.)
other than that ig the other main character was okay but i read the book yesterday and already forget her name so nothing memorable there. like if i could remember her name i would tell you that she was actually a good character and had clear motives, and wasn't like completely stupid. she deserved her own book, one in which she doesn't have the WORLDS WORST freind. i did like her part of the story but since Lo got 1/2 the pov i was draaaggginngg myself to finish this book so it could be over.
if someone told me they rewrote this book, i would gladly read it again because the premise and idea is awesome but i just read a terrible execution of said premise.
(the ending twist was so stupid)
1. Lo. i hated her with every ounce of my being. (spoilers ahead) her sudden personality switch made no sense, going from "i'm going to save my sisters and help my best friend" to "everyone can die 🖤🐺" AND THEN KILLING TWO PEOPLE didn't make any sense with her character or with the story. furthermore the fact that every. single. man. was in love with her got annoying SO fast. every other page was full of some random dude hitting on her and her liking it. yes.... i LOVE catcalling and sexual harassment as well. and she gets upset when someone likes her friend for a change. she needed to grow up and get a life bc her entire character was "hey im pretty" (also, the banker was not all that, he was a plank a wood and a disgrace of a love interest but he's what you deserve so i'm happy you ended up with him)
2. alejandro. bud deserved better... that's all i have to say (stop because his love story was SO cute they actually had so much chemistry and ugh im so mad that Lo did him like that. (SPOILERS) just because ONE guy didn't hate, shun, and ignore your friend does NOT mean you get jealous and KILL HIM OMG SHUT UP, your friend deserves happiness stop being a duche bag istg)
3. Carlos was also done so dirty (SPOILERS: also by Lo, dude was prepared to lay down his life for you and YOU LED HIM ON WHY ARE WE KISSING PEOPLE WE DONT LIKE FOR NO REASON! he wouldn't give you info for the kiss so why are we being rude.)
other than that ig the other main character was okay but i read the book yesterday and already forget her name so nothing memorable there. like if i could remember her name i would tell you that she was actually a good character and had clear motives, and wasn't like completely stupid. she deserved her own book, one in which she doesn't have the WORLDS WORST freind. i did like her part of the story but since Lo got 1/2 the pov i was draaaggginngg myself to finish this book so it could be over.
if someone told me they rewrote this book, i would gladly read it again because the premise and idea is awesome but i just read a terrible execution of said premise.
(the ending twist was so stupid)
September 6, 2024
Okay so like the food descriptions really hit hard and I was basically hungry the whole time reading this book. Also this felt like Caraval but like 100% darker. The characters were a bit 1 dimensional and I didn’t like any of them. They all felt kinda selfish and things were almost cartoonish in how bad things happened to them. I was very bored through 200 pages of this book, and that’s after some murder started happening.
November 9, 2024
Fate and fortune intertwine in a dangerous game of chance, where the stakes are higher than death and the weight the players bring with them is immeasurable.
Mayte and Loteria have been best friends forever. Mayte's family may have plummeted from their high position in society to the lower levels, but Loteria's holds their own dark secrets. Both girls suffer, which is one reason they swore long ago to wager their very souls if Fortune's Kiss ever reappeared in their city. The mysterious gaming salon only appears twice a year and always in a new place. The winner will have any wish granted, while all others are never seen again. So when the salon appears, Mayte and Loteria decide to hold their oath and see if they are picked to join the game. Both feel they have nothing to lose, but Fortune's Kiss reveals even the most hidden secrets...and these are more than either girl could have ever known.
The historic atmosphere of this novel lays a fitting scene for this tale, while adding a dusting of magic to create a rich world. Both Mayte's and Loteria's circumstances are brought to light, packed with emotions and pain to draw sympathy. Neither has it easy, and both in very different ways. The reader gains a good understanding of both before they turn to Fortune's Kiss...and the reasons behind their decision to wager everything is more than understandable. The tale switches back and forth between the two girl's perspectives, and during their time in Fortune's Kiss, their real souls and intentions are laid bare. Neither is perfect, and the author demonstrates how pain and experience weave in thorns and scars to warp good intentions. At times, it did seem like both girls were a bit distanced from the reader, but in general, both are easy to root for...even if this is a rollercoaster, at times.
The darker corners of the human soul are examined in these pages and show how even the purest wish might not be as glowing as it first appears. People are even good at fooling themselves. But there's a sense of hope, selfishness, and true friendship to keep a ray of hope even in darker moments. Considering the violence and cruelty, at times, the rays are needed.
This does hold a few triggers surrounding drugs, family violence, alcoholism, a tad bit of gore, and nods toward human trafficking (although this last one is very light). All of this weaves into the tale well to work its purpose and bring across the messages without drudging deeper than necessary.
It creates a grabbing read, where the next twist is hard to see coming and nothing is as it first appears.
Mayte and Loteria have been best friends forever. Mayte's family may have plummeted from their high position in society to the lower levels, but Loteria's holds their own dark secrets. Both girls suffer, which is one reason they swore long ago to wager their very souls if Fortune's Kiss ever reappeared in their city. The mysterious gaming salon only appears twice a year and always in a new place. The winner will have any wish granted, while all others are never seen again. So when the salon appears, Mayte and Loteria decide to hold their oath and see if they are picked to join the game. Both feel they have nothing to lose, but Fortune's Kiss reveals even the most hidden secrets...and these are more than either girl could have ever known.
The historic atmosphere of this novel lays a fitting scene for this tale, while adding a dusting of magic to create a rich world. Both Mayte's and Loteria's circumstances are brought to light, packed with emotions and pain to draw sympathy. Neither has it easy, and both in very different ways. The reader gains a good understanding of both before they turn to Fortune's Kiss...and the reasons behind their decision to wager everything is more than understandable. The tale switches back and forth between the two girl's perspectives, and during their time in Fortune's Kiss, their real souls and intentions are laid bare. Neither is perfect, and the author demonstrates how pain and experience weave in thorns and scars to warp good intentions. At times, it did seem like both girls were a bit distanced from the reader, but in general, both are easy to root for...even if this is a rollercoaster, at times.
The darker corners of the human soul are examined in these pages and show how even the purest wish might not be as glowing as it first appears. People are even good at fooling themselves. But there's a sense of hope, selfishness, and true friendship to keep a ray of hope even in darker moments. Considering the violence and cruelty, at times, the rays are needed.
This does hold a few triggers surrounding drugs, family violence, alcoholism, a tad bit of gore, and nods toward human trafficking (although this last one is very light). All of this weaves into the tale well to work its purpose and bring across the messages without drudging deeper than necessary.
It creates a grabbing read, where the next twist is hard to see coming and nothing is as it first appears.
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