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Game of Knaves
286 pages, Hardcover
Published February 13, 2026
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
March 30, 2026
There’s something undeniably special about reading a novel that feels both imaginative and emotionally grounded. Game of Knaves by S. Marie Holland delivers exactly that.
What begins as an intriguing premise, a fantasy world shaped by the structure of a deck of cards, quickly unfolds into a gripping, high-stakes story filled with royal intrigue, deadly trials, and unexpected alliances. Fans of competitive fantasy narratives will immediately feel the pulse of familiar excitement, yet Holland brings a fresh perspective that makes the story wholly her own.
At the heart of the novel is Novem, a protagonist whose journey is as emotional as it is dangerous. Her grief is palpable, her motivations deeply human, and her evolution throughout the Queen trials is both compelling and satisfying. As she navigates brutal arena battles, shifting loyalties, and the haunting mystery left behind by her mother, readers are drawn into a story that balances action with introspection.
What truly sets Game of Knaves apart is its ability to weave together spectacle and sincerity. The royal balls shimmer with tension, the physical challenges carry real stakes, and the looming presence of the Joker adds an eerie, unpredictable edge. Yet beneath it all is a story about healing, identity, and the courage it takes to move forward.
It’s also worth noting that this novel is an impressive achievement for any writer, let alone one so young and fresh in their writing journey. S. Marie Holland demonstrates a natural talent for storytelling, world-building, and character development that promises an exciting future ahead.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced fantasy with heart, mystery, and a unique twist, Game of Knaves is absolutely worth your time. It’s the kind of book that pulls you in quickly and lingers long after the final page. You’ll want to recommend to others as soon as you finish. I don't gravitate toward fantasy at all, but I'm very interested to see how this world continues to unfold as the series is further developed.
What begins as an intriguing premise, a fantasy world shaped by the structure of a deck of cards, quickly unfolds into a gripping, high-stakes story filled with royal intrigue, deadly trials, and unexpected alliances. Fans of competitive fantasy narratives will immediately feel the pulse of familiar excitement, yet Holland brings a fresh perspective that makes the story wholly her own.
At the heart of the novel is Novem, a protagonist whose journey is as emotional as it is dangerous. Her grief is palpable, her motivations deeply human, and her evolution throughout the Queen trials is both compelling and satisfying. As she navigates brutal arena battles, shifting loyalties, and the haunting mystery left behind by her mother, readers are drawn into a story that balances action with introspection.
What truly sets Game of Knaves apart is its ability to weave together spectacle and sincerity. The royal balls shimmer with tension, the physical challenges carry real stakes, and the looming presence of the Joker adds an eerie, unpredictable edge. Yet beneath it all is a story about healing, identity, and the courage it takes to move forward.
It’s also worth noting that this novel is an impressive achievement for any writer, let alone one so young and fresh in their writing journey. S. Marie Holland demonstrates a natural talent for storytelling, world-building, and character development that promises an exciting future ahead.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced fantasy with heart, mystery, and a unique twist, Game of Knaves is absolutely worth your time. It’s the kind of book that pulls you in quickly and lingers long after the final page. You’ll want to recommend to others as soon as you finish. I don't gravitate toward fantasy at all, but I'm very interested to see how this world continues to unfold as the series is further developed.
Displaying 1 of 1 review