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In Earth’s battle-ridden future, humans have evolved. Those with extraordinary skills rise to power and fame. Those without live in poverty.
Sixteen-year-old Willow Kent believed she was normal. But when a genetically-advanced military officer shows up in her village and questions her identity, long-buried secrets begin to emerge. With remarkable skills and a shocking genetic code the Core and its enemies will do anything to obtain, Willow suddenly finds the freedom she craves slipping through her fingers. Greed, corruption, and genetic tampering threaten every aspect of her existence as she’s thrust, unwilling, into the sophisticated culture of the elite Core city. To ensure peace, she must leave the past behind, marry a man she’s never met, and submit to the authority of a relentless officer with a hidden agenda of his own.
Her life has become a dangerous game. How much will she sacrifice in order to win?
Sixteen-year-old Willow Kent believed she was normal. But when a genetically-advanced military officer shows up in her village and questions her identity, long-buried secrets begin to emerge. With remarkable skills and a shocking genetic code the Core and its enemies will do anything to obtain, Willow suddenly finds the freedom she craves slipping through her fingers. Greed, corruption, and genetic tampering threaten every aspect of her existence as she’s thrust, unwilling, into the sophisticated culture of the elite Core city. To ensure peace, she must leave the past behind, marry a man she’s never met, and submit to the authority of a relentless officer with a hidden agenda of his own.
Her life has become a dangerous game. How much will she sacrifice in order to win?
556 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2015
58 people are currently reading
2100 people want to read
About the author
C.L. Denault
8 books151 followersC.L. Denault is a speculative fiction writer who loves dreaming up tales of adventure and intrigue. A former systems analyst, she gave up her nerdy code-writing skills to stay home with her children (including a son with special needs), and currently lives among the vast stretches of cornfields in Illinois.
Writing and working out are her biggest passions, along with coffee and sci-fi. When she’s not hanging out with her husband and kids, she can usually be found at a library or tucked away in the shadowy corner of a hip coffeehouse. She’s also been glimpsed sneaking into her garage, late at night, to work on her time machine.
She enjoys connecting with people—especially those from other planets, nearby dimensions, and the future. To find her, just visit her website or social media pages. Or use a Stargate. Whichever is easiest.
Writing and working out are her biggest passions, along with coffee and sci-fi. When she’s not hanging out with her husband and kids, she can usually be found at a library or tucked away in the shadowy corner of a hip coffeehouse. She’s also been glimpsed sneaking into her garage, late at night, to work on her time machine.
She enjoys connecting with people—especially those from other planets, nearby dimensions, and the future. To find her, just visit her website or social media pages. Or use a Stargate. Whichever is easiest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
November 3, 2016
I would like to thank REUTS Publications & C.L. Denault for my copy of the ARC.
OH MY GOD WHAT DID I JUST READ?!?!?! I CAN'T EVEN THINK, I NEED THE SEQUEL RIGHT THIS SECOND!!
Recently I was finding myself in a huge reading slump, but the last few books I've read have been really good, like 5-star good. This book however just knocked it clean out the park for me. I can't even think straight and watching the percentage hitting high on my kindle was like someone filling my boots with rocks in throwing me in a lake, I didn't want it to end.
Willow loves her life working in her parents Tavern, with her siblings and great friends living in Outlying Lands far from the Core. The only thing is Willow isn't an ordinary 16-year-old, so when a commander from the core comes calling to the town her family try everything to keep her away from him fearing that he will find out what Willow is really about and where she really belongs. With a future world that has been damaged by war, nothing can prepare Willow for the trip she is about to take. Will she adjust to this new high-tech world that awaits her, or will it break her knowing everyone has an agenda for her?
Denault has brought two completely different worlds and mashed them up into some super tasty ice cream sundae, the story turns into a futuristic dystopian world and I was completely gripped from the get go. I still don't know how to even write a proper review on it as I have so much running through my mind, I'm book drunk, and not just your tipsy "oh I really liked this book drunk", I mean completely inebriated rolling about my bed trying to figure out how I will handle my life until Denault hits us with book 2.
Not only was the plot building strong, our characters are out of this world like literally there is no one I don't like. They come alive throughout the book and all have their own little tweaks and trades, I feel like this is a really strong point when authors can do this as it makes a story much more likeable when you love the characters. It's hard to make a reader connect with each and everyone which I feel Denault has a knack for and should keep using it to her advantage, along with the way she manages to create and build worlds I feel like this could be big.
Our main leading lady Willow is a tough cookie, her worlds been turned upside down yet she keeps that fight in her which I love. She can be a tad child like at times but she's 16 it is to be expected! I see people writing how they have a problem with a 16 & 23-year-old kissing as she's underage, the book is set here in the UK the legal age here is 16 so it's pretty common for people at these ages to be intimate with each other, 7 years isn't a big age difference to be perfectly honest.
I loved Reece and Aspen, I think they are great. Who doesn't love two swoon-worthy male characters? Reece is the definition of a demigod with the attributes to match. Aspen is your cheeky, cocky type that girls just can't keep away from. Both are strong presences in the book and I hope to see a lot of them in the second.
I'm really interested in the Ritters, I haven't really come across anything like them before in a book and it seems there is a lot more to them which we may see further on in the series.
I couldn't recommend this book enough and already some of my Goodreads friends have started to read it due to my multiple updates on my journey through the story!
Please check out my blog www.amandaminnockx.tumblr.com
"Promise you won't leave me." With a deep sigh, he gathered me in his arms and hugged me to his chest. He kissed the top of my head before resting his chin there. "I'll never leave you, Willow."
OH MY GOD WHAT DID I JUST READ?!?!?! I CAN'T EVEN THINK, I NEED THE SEQUEL RIGHT THIS SECOND!!
Recently I was finding myself in a huge reading slump, but the last few books I've read have been really good, like 5-star good. This book however just knocked it clean out the park for me. I can't even think straight and watching the percentage hitting high on my kindle was like someone filling my boots with rocks in throwing me in a lake, I didn't want it to end.
Willow loves her life working in her parents Tavern, with her siblings and great friends living in Outlying Lands far from the Core. The only thing is Willow isn't an ordinary 16-year-old, so when a commander from the core comes calling to the town her family try everything to keep her away from him fearing that he will find out what Willow is really about and where she really belongs. With a future world that has been damaged by war, nothing can prepare Willow for the trip she is about to take. Will she adjust to this new high-tech world that awaits her, or will it break her knowing everyone has an agenda for her?
Denault has brought two completely different worlds and mashed them up into some super tasty ice cream sundae, the story turns into a futuristic dystopian world and I was completely gripped from the get go. I still don't know how to even write a proper review on it as I have so much running through my mind, I'm book drunk, and not just your tipsy "oh I really liked this book drunk", I mean completely inebriated rolling about my bed trying to figure out how I will handle my life until Denault hits us with book 2.
Not only was the plot building strong, our characters are out of this world like literally there is no one I don't like. They come alive throughout the book and all have their own little tweaks and trades, I feel like this is a really strong point when authors can do this as it makes a story much more likeable when you love the characters. It's hard to make a reader connect with each and everyone which I feel Denault has a knack for and should keep using it to her advantage, along with the way she manages to create and build worlds I feel like this could be big.
Our main leading lady Willow is a tough cookie, her worlds been turned upside down yet she keeps that fight in her which I love. She can be a tad child like at times but she's 16 it is to be expected! I see people writing how they have a problem with a 16 & 23-year-old kissing as she's underage, the book is set here in the UK the legal age here is 16 so it's pretty common for people at these ages to be intimate with each other, 7 years isn't a big age difference to be perfectly honest.
I loved Reece and Aspen, I think they are great. Who doesn't love two swoon-worthy male characters? Reece is the definition of a demigod with the attributes to match. Aspen is your cheeky, cocky type that girls just can't keep away from. Both are strong presences in the book and I hope to see a lot of them in the second.
I'm really interested in the Ritters, I haven't really come across anything like them before in a book and it seems there is a lot more to them which we may see further on in the series.
I couldn't recommend this book enough and already some of my Goodreads friends have started to read it due to my multiple updates on my journey through the story!
Please check out my blog www.amandaminnockx.tumblr.com
"Promise you won't leave me." With a deep sigh, he gathered me in his arms and hugged me to his chest. He kissed the top of my head before resting his chin there. "I'll never leave you, Willow."
October 3, 2015
Do you ever read a book that made you want to unread them right after you finished reading it? No, not because it wasn't a pleasant experience but because you want to read it again for the very first time?
Gambit made that impact to me. I wanted to unread the book because I want to savor each moment. I finished this book all too fast, thanks to its fast-paced plot. Now I want to start and meet each and every character again. I want to go back, and meet Reece, Asp and Willow all over again.
Willow Kent has lived a quiet life with her family in the outlying lands, where their main goal is to keep their family from starving. That is, until a core officer shows up in their tavern door that her life was turned upside down. Turns out Willow is a missing heiress of the Roanoke family, a powerful family from the Core, where DNA will dictate your stand in the society.
Gambit was so well-written that I just can't get enough of it. This is exactly how I want my Dystopian read to be. Great, intriguing world-building, A rather complex one at that. The core city was set-up in futuristic Europe, specifically in London, as the Big Ben is still up and working, the only thing that's left of our world, makes you left wanting for more, fast-paced plot, swoon-worthy Romance, and the characters, oh man, they are one of the best part of this book!
Then there's Reece. The cold-blooded Core Commander, whose mission is to bring Willow back to the Core. Reece is the kind of character I think, readers will either hate or love, there's no inbetween. I have no idea in all honesty at first that he's going to be Willow's love interest, not that I'm complaining really, I'am one of those people who loved Reece despite his hard and rough personality. He's not one of those people or men that Willow can sway and bend to her liking, he's a commanding officer, one that is used to being followed and respected.
The side characters were awesome too! Aspen, Tem, Hart, Morry, Fenn, Rush, The Ritters, which I developed a fond fascination after the last encounter and even Thess. I'am hoping we'll get to see more of him in the sequel. I would just give anything to hear any news at all for the sequel. Plus that wonderful cover is totally relatable with the story! I can't help but think that everything about this book is just perfect for me!
I THINK I HAVE JUST READ ONE OF MY BEST READ IN 2015... I'm not even exaggerating. I'm sure this isn't the last time I'm going to read this book!
Beware that this is the first installment in the series, so expect a lot of world building, a whole lot of plot development, but not much of resolutions given at hand. This book obviously set-up the stage for much awaited sequel, how many times did I mention the sequel now? A LOT! Because I just want to read it.. badly.
Overall: I would love to recommend this book to everyone who loves their Dystopian read, with romance & sexual tensions going on, swooning, great secondary characters, beautiful writing and DNA alteration/superpowers!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, thank you**
Gambit made that impact to me. I wanted to unread the book because I want to savor each moment. I finished this book all too fast, thanks to its fast-paced plot. Now I want to start and meet each and every character again. I want to go back, and meet Reece, Asp and Willow all over again.
"I sucked in a lungful of air and kept from heaving up the contents of my stomach. This was terrible. Our lives were in danger, and the girl with the strongest skill of all couldn't handle it. Some weapon I was turning out to be."I was pleasantly surprised after reading Gambit. I'am honestly putting off writing review in this wonderful book because I'm so scared I won't be able to do this book justice with my review. But I have to try. I need to atleast try.
Willow Kent has lived a quiet life with her family in the outlying lands, where their main goal is to keep their family from starving. That is, until a core officer shows up in their tavern door that her life was turned upside down. Turns out Willow is a missing heiress of the Roanoke family, a powerful family from the Core, where DNA will dictate your stand in the society.
Gambit was so well-written that I just can't get enough of it. This is exactly how I want my Dystopian read to be. Great, intriguing world-building, A rather complex one at that. The core city was set-up in futuristic Europe, specifically in London, as the Big Ben is still up and working, the only thing that's left of our world, makes you left wanting for more, fast-paced plot, swoon-worthy Romance, and the characters, oh man, they are one of the best part of this book!
"I'm not here to keep you from experiencing pain. If I held back all your struggles, you'd never grow."Willow Kent. Her growth throughout the duration of the book is commendable. Not just with her skills but with her way of thinking as well. She has a great skill, pretty superior, being a second-phaser that she is, but we didn't see much of her strength here, since she didn't have much of a training, hopefully on the sequel, we'll get much more of it. She made mistakes, a whole lot of it in fact, but that's fine! That's what makes her more realistic in my eyes.
Then there's Reece. The cold-blooded Core Commander, whose mission is to bring Willow back to the Core. Reece is the kind of character I think, readers will either hate or love, there's no inbetween. I have no idea in all honesty at first that he's going to be Willow's love interest, not that I'm complaining really, I'am one of those people who loved Reece despite his hard and rough personality. He's not one of those people or men that Willow can sway and bend to her liking, he's a commanding officer, one that is used to being followed and respected.
"Ogre!"Their age differences fascinates me and it just add to the appeal of their relationship. Reece, despite his obvious cold demeanor, is still a complete mystery for me. There were a lot of issues going on around him that wasn't answered, like his problem with the guardian and his upbringing. At some point, I can compare him to Aaron Warner, in his own twisted, dark and swoony way he does care, people might see it differently, but that's just the way he thinks he's built for it, atleast he has consistency.
"Brat," he retorted. "I thought we were past your low tavern behavior."
The side characters were awesome too! Aspen, Tem, Hart, Morry, Fenn, Rush, The Ritters, which I developed a fond fascination after the last encounter and even Thess. I'am hoping we'll get to see more of him in the sequel. I would just give anything to hear any news at all for the sequel. Plus that wonderful cover is totally relatable with the story! I can't help but think that everything about this book is just perfect for me!
I THINK I HAVE JUST READ ONE OF MY BEST READ IN 2015... I'm not even exaggerating. I'm sure this isn't the last time I'm going to read this book!
Beware that this is the first installment in the series, so expect a lot of world building, a whole lot of plot development, but not much of resolutions given at hand. This book obviously set-up the stage for much awaited sequel, how many times did I mention the sequel now? A LOT! Because I just want to read it.. badly.
Overall: I would love to recommend this book to everyone who loves their Dystopian read, with romance & sexual tensions going on, swooning, great secondary characters, beautiful writing and DNA alteration/superpowers!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, thank you**
February 8, 2016
"Ogre."
"Brat."
I think I'm a bit obsessed with this book.It's sooo good!I loved the main character and the world building.The supporting characters are amazing,too-I love Asp and Reece,of course.Who doesn't love Reece?
Also,Ritters sound really interesting.And I can't wait to find out more about .Also,I have to mention this beautiful cover because it is completely story-related!LOVE IT!
"To ensure peace, she must leave the past behind, marry a man she’s never met, and submit to the authority of a relentless officer with a hidden agenda of his own.
Her life has become a dangerous game. How much will she sacrifice in order to win?"
If you don't feel like reading this book after reading this amazing synopsis and seeing this gorgeous cover...then I really don't know what to tell you.READ IT! ◕‿◕
Favourite quote:
"Were you feeling sick today?"
"Aye,sick of you."
______________________
*E-copy provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.*
February 10, 2017
Mind completely blown with this book! Thank you to whoever it was that commented on one of my videos recommending this book to me! This is totally a hidden treasure that I'm so sad to say isn't known at all!!! Let me just tell you how awesome this book is!
Okay where to begin and then again make sure there aren't any spoilers! AAAH! okay...seriously pull yourself together!
This book is about Willow a girl who knew she didn't really belong with the family she has always known. But little does she know when it comes to her heritage and what it means to everyone else. Willow grew up way outside the the city, poor where she worked with her family in their inn. She loves where she's at even though one day she seeks to be free of everything and everyone. I love Willow, she is strong, beautiful and not at all weak. She isn't naive but smart and keeps you on your toes. She's everything I like in my female characters.When word comes that the marriage between two powerful houses are not to happen due to the lady of one house being a fraud. What's important to know about that is magic is important and the houses and the joining of blood to make stronger magic is even more important. So, then the hunt begins for the traitor that stole the real heiress and switched them with this false girl and the actual heiress.
When Commander Reece shows up looking for the traitor he finds Willow and forces her to
return with him to the Core which is the elite city, a place she's never been and only the wealthy live. I LOVE commander Reece he is everything I like in my male characters....well except his hair, dude CUT IT OFF..but that is more of a personal preference. Anyway he has depth, a past, brooding, strong yet gentle and kind, he keeps you on your toes and I loved that because I never knew what to expect from him.The world building was crazy cool, I liked the concept that the further you were away from the elite city Core the more old fashioned in speech, dress and culture you got. There is no technology or such out where Willow was raised and the closer you got to the Core the more tech-y savy life became. Now with all that you've got, magic. Magic only a few have and some people would literally KILL for. When a group of rebels try to steal the blood of the those that have ti becomes a dangerous game of cat and mouse.
Overall, I LOVED LOVED this book that I had to own a copy of it. I was also able to reach out to the author for a signed copy giveaway...more on that below. I could NOT put this book down it was so complicated and adventurous I just didn't sleep one night and plowed through it! Now only to wait for book two! GAH! And I so hope more people find out about this book and give it a chance because I loved it! I can't wait to see what more this author has up she sleeves!
Sexual Content: mild
Language: mild
Drugs/Alcohol: mild
Violence: moderate
March 2, 2019
Book #1 in The Prodigy Chronicles
๏ Highlights ๏
Dystopian
Fantastical Elements
Futuristic Techy
Super-Humans
A Doomed, Yet Feels So Right Romance
๏ My Thoughts ๏
In anticipation of Book #2 in The Prodigy Chronicles coming out in March, titled MIMIC, I reread this to refresh my memory of the story because all I really remembered was how much I loved it. Seriously though, I first read this book three years ago. I've been waiting, impatiently I might add, for this series to have a follow-up for a long while.
In my original review of Gambit, I said a couple of things like...
Plus...
And...I only thing I want to add is this...
A fantastical ride that left me reeling. Willow, headstrong and completely out of her element is the perfect match for Reece, an arrogant asshole, with a tender side and together they are perfectly imperfect. Last but not least, please don't make us wait another three years for the next book?!?
๏ Breakdown of Ratings ๏
Plot⇝ 5/5
Main Characters⇝ 5/5
Secondary Characters⇝ 5/5
The Feels⇝ 5/5
Pacing⇝ 4.5/5
Addictiveness⇝ 5/5
Theme or Tone⇝ 5/5
Flow (Writing Style)⇝ 5/5
Backdrop (World Building)⇝ 5/5
Originality⇝ 5+/5
Ending⇝ 5/5 Cliffhanger⇝ Yes.
๏ ๏ ๏
Book Cover⇝ Love it!
Setting⇝ McKaireth and London Core
Source⇝ I own Kindle eBook
๏ ๏ ๏
๏ Highlights ๏
Dystopian
Fantastical Elements
Futuristic Techy
Super-Humans
A Doomed, Yet Feels So Right Romance
๏ My Thoughts ๏
In anticipation of Book #2 in The Prodigy Chronicles coming out in March, titled MIMIC, I reread this to refresh my memory of the story because all I really remembered was how much I loved it. Seriously though, I first read this book three years ago. I've been waiting, impatiently I might add, for this series to have a follow-up for a long while.
In my original review of Gambit, I said a couple of things like...
This is dystopian/paranormal-ish/romance/splash of historical/futuristic kind of read, yeah, it has all that and lots of well-written action too. Amazing! You would think with so much going on that it might be hard to follow, but it's not.
Plus...
This book blew me away, I really just loved it. The world in this book is phenomenal, it has me hooked. It literally has a little of everything; from half invisible guardians to crazy ex-girlfriends, and everything in between.
And...I only thing I want to add is this...
A fantastical ride that left me reeling. Willow, headstrong and completely out of her element is the perfect match for Reece, an arrogant asshole, with a tender side and together they are perfectly imperfect. Last but not least, please don't make us wait another three years for the next book?!?
๏ MY RATING ๏ ☆5☆STARS - GRADE=A+
๏ Breakdown of Ratings ๏
Plot⇝ 5/5
Main Characters⇝ 5/5
Secondary Characters⇝ 5/5
The Feels⇝ 5/5
Pacing⇝ 4.5/5
Addictiveness⇝ 5/5
Theme or Tone⇝ 5/5
Flow (Writing Style)⇝ 5/5
Backdrop (World Building)⇝ 5/5
Originality⇝ 5+/5
Ending⇝ 5/5 Cliffhanger⇝ Yes.
๏ ๏ ๏
Book Cover⇝ Love it!
Setting⇝ McKaireth and London Core
Source⇝ I own Kindle eBook
๏ ๏ ๏
May 17, 2016
"It was, indeed, a tricky thing to be a woman."
I received this book on a read-to-review basis from NetGalley. Thank you to the author, C.L. Denault, and the publisher, REUTS Publications, LLC, for the opportunity.
This felt like A Game of Thrones meets Red Queen meets A Throne of Glass. In short: this was epic!
The story initially grabbed my attention as I was launched straight into the heart of the action. The reader learns who is who and what is what through showing not telling as Denault artfully navigates us around the world. I had presumed this was a quaint and rural fantastical land, which it, in part, is, and then part of the world inhabited by the powerful elite is discovered and this turns into more of a science-fiction tale. The two parts of the world are at odds with each other and yet this grating works to create momentum for a rebellion and intrigue within the plot.
The story converges on a multitude of genres, as the plot advances. Romance, satire, mystery - this novel conquers it all! It also held the appeal of having a feisty female protagonist who can kick ass as good as the boys, knows her own mind, isn't subtle about her dislike of being guarded, used or treated as a china doll, and uses others' misogynistic treatment of her for her own gains. She is the type of protagonist I can really get behind!
There was a never a time where I could guess the character's intent or the plot's progression but was meekly carried along on this stellar story with impeccable telling. I can not wait to see where the story goes!
I received this book on a read-to-review basis from NetGalley. Thank you to the author, C.L. Denault, and the publisher, REUTS Publications, LLC, for the opportunity.
This felt like A Game of Thrones meets Red Queen meets A Throne of Glass. In short: this was epic!
The story initially grabbed my attention as I was launched straight into the heart of the action. The reader learns who is who and what is what through showing not telling as Denault artfully navigates us around the world. I had presumed this was a quaint and rural fantastical land, which it, in part, is, and then part of the world inhabited by the powerful elite is discovered and this turns into more of a science-fiction tale. The two parts of the world are at odds with each other and yet this grating works to create momentum for a rebellion and intrigue within the plot.
The story converges on a multitude of genres, as the plot advances. Romance, satire, mystery - this novel conquers it all! It also held the appeal of having a feisty female protagonist who can kick ass as good as the boys, knows her own mind, isn't subtle about her dislike of being guarded, used or treated as a china doll, and uses others' misogynistic treatment of her for her own gains. She is the type of protagonist I can really get behind!
There was a never a time where I could guess the character's intent or the plot's progression but was meekly carried along on this stellar story with impeccable telling. I can not wait to see where the story goes!
December 18, 2015
**Disclaimer: I was one of the acquiring editors for this book, but my review is based on my personal reasons for advocating its publication. Consider it a glimpse into the mind of an acquisitions editor. I was not compensated in any way for my opinions.**
Gambit lays the foundation for a traditional coming-of-age tale, following Willow Kent’s journey — metaphorically and physically — as she grows from a young woman into the woman she’s destined to become. However, it’s definitely the beginning of a much larger tale, so don’t expect to see that journey encapsulated in this initial book. It’s a trilogy, and this is only the first third.
What you should expect is to be introduced to a world that is at once fresh and yet familiar at the same time. Set in a future where our current society has crumbled and humans have evolved, Willow starts her life in what feels like a medieval throw-back, a village in the remnants of what used to be Scotland. Infused with all the charm of Pixar’s Brave, we’re shown a snapshot of Willow’s life as a tavern keeper’s daughter.
But that life is soon swept away when an officer from the highly technological Core arrives. He’s looking for a missing heiress, a child stolen from one of the prominent Core families and hidden away in the Outlying Lands. That child is Willow. Suddenly faced with an identity she knew nothing about, Willow is forced to sacrifice everything she knows in order to protect the ones she loves and is thrust into the terrifying, fast-paced, intricate world of high society at the Core’s very center, where your DNA defines your worth.
Denault’s prose is captivating, painting her world with a mastery that instantly had me swooning. (Yes, editors swoon over words. Why are you surprised?) And speaking of swooning, the romance. While the hot and cold relationship between Commander Reece and Willow may bother some, it reminded me of the type seen in the classic narratives of Jane Austen and the Bronte Sisters. It evoked a subtler, highly charged and passionate style of romance that is rare in modern literature. The kind where things like differences in social station and perspectives on propriety create tension and subtext that goes beyond physical attraction. Does Willow have a tendency to fall for gorgeous men, feeling pulled in several directions at once? Yes. But you know what? She’s sixteen. That’s what sixteen-year-old girls do.
In fact, that’s one of the things I loved most, that the protagonist, Willow, is actually allowed to be a teenager. She’s sixteen and catapulted into a world she has no idea how to navigate. She throws tantrums and makes mistakes, and it’s okay, because she’s sixteen. Unlike other young adult books that often have characters acting with a maturity well beyond their supposed years, I appreciated that Willow’s struggle felt genuine to her age.
I’ve loved Gambit from the second I stumbled on it on Figment.com (under its then title ofProdigy), and I still think about it, months after I’ve finished reading. It’s engraved in that special part of my brain reserved for all-time favorite titles, and I expect the characters and world will haunt me for years to come in the best possible way. For me, that’s the ultimate goal, finding a book that gives me a book hangover so intense I never truly recover. Gambit fit that bill for me.
One part Pixar’s Brave, one part X-Men, one part Pride and Prejudice, and one part My Fair Lady,Gambit is a magical debut from a brilliant new author. And all I can say is, “Sequel now, please!”
Gambit lays the foundation for a traditional coming-of-age tale, following Willow Kent’s journey — metaphorically and physically — as she grows from a young woman into the woman she’s destined to become. However, it’s definitely the beginning of a much larger tale, so don’t expect to see that journey encapsulated in this initial book. It’s a trilogy, and this is only the first third.
What you should expect is to be introduced to a world that is at once fresh and yet familiar at the same time. Set in a future where our current society has crumbled and humans have evolved, Willow starts her life in what feels like a medieval throw-back, a village in the remnants of what used to be Scotland. Infused with all the charm of Pixar’s Brave, we’re shown a snapshot of Willow’s life as a tavern keeper’s daughter.
But that life is soon swept away when an officer from the highly technological Core arrives. He’s looking for a missing heiress, a child stolen from one of the prominent Core families and hidden away in the Outlying Lands. That child is Willow. Suddenly faced with an identity she knew nothing about, Willow is forced to sacrifice everything she knows in order to protect the ones she loves and is thrust into the terrifying, fast-paced, intricate world of high society at the Core’s very center, where your DNA defines your worth.
Denault’s prose is captivating, painting her world with a mastery that instantly had me swooning. (Yes, editors swoon over words. Why are you surprised?) And speaking of swooning, the romance. While the hot and cold relationship between Commander Reece and Willow may bother some, it reminded me of the type seen in the classic narratives of Jane Austen and the Bronte Sisters. It evoked a subtler, highly charged and passionate style of romance that is rare in modern literature. The kind where things like differences in social station and perspectives on propriety create tension and subtext that goes beyond physical attraction. Does Willow have a tendency to fall for gorgeous men, feeling pulled in several directions at once? Yes. But you know what? She’s sixteen. That’s what sixteen-year-old girls do.
In fact, that’s one of the things I loved most, that the protagonist, Willow, is actually allowed to be a teenager. She’s sixteen and catapulted into a world she has no idea how to navigate. She throws tantrums and makes mistakes, and it’s okay, because she’s sixteen. Unlike other young adult books that often have characters acting with a maturity well beyond their supposed years, I appreciated that Willow’s struggle felt genuine to her age.
I’ve loved Gambit from the second I stumbled on it on Figment.com (under its then title ofProdigy), and I still think about it, months after I’ve finished reading. It’s engraved in that special part of my brain reserved for all-time favorite titles, and I expect the characters and world will haunt me for years to come in the best possible way. For me, that’s the ultimate goal, finding a book that gives me a book hangover so intense I never truly recover. Gambit fit that bill for me.
One part Pixar’s Brave, one part X-Men, one part Pride and Prejudice, and one part My Fair Lady,Gambit is a magical debut from a brilliant new author. And all I can say is, “Sequel now, please!”
March 27, 2021
2021 REREAD
Now I do see some issues in this book rereading it in 2021 but I must admit, this book is making me so happy and giddy all the time I can get passed them. I went into it again wanting to fall back in love with reading and its exactly what I got!
REVIEW FROM 2016
THE WORLD: So first of all...amazing! It is very dystopian but also not what you know as dystopian world. So we have a capital which is a center of technology and science and then it is surrounded by this electric storm as protection. And behind the storm you have the rest of the land which is basically small poor villages. Now what is so special about this world? Well...it is all about science. Everything is affected by gene therapy and manipulation, all technologies and everything are there to improve science. It is all about the science and head scientists are the richest people there that have most power. Basically, the smarter you are the richer you get. Pretty great no? Well for me who is a genetics scientist this sounds like a paradise :D
CHARACTERS: So there are two main characters really: Willow and Reece. Willow is a lost daughter of most richest family in the capital. Basically in order to keep the peace she has to marry the son of other richest family. Politics. Anyways, so Willow was raised as a villager and did not know about who she is till a commander aka Reece comes to bring her back. So let's first talk about Willow. She is actually very appealing, surely wild and stands up for herself but she is not whinny and very very reasonable which is always a great quality in the character. I personally felt very attacked to her and cannot wait to see where her story is going to go. Go Willow! And then we have Reece who is plainly speaking a god in this book. In a way he is a little bit like my all time love Warner from Shatter Me series but Reece takes it even further. He is confident and seems as an ass at first but then we get to see more of his personality and it is just...damn damn damn. He is amazing is all I can tell you, it has been so long since I was so in love with a male character. When you are reading about Reece your body is just shivering...love love love.
LOVE: So as I mentioned already, Willow and Reece are just amazing separately but as a matter of fact they are not even a little bit less amazing together either. I love their romance, it has all I need.
PLUS: I love the world, I love the characters and I love the story. What I also love are Ritters. They are these creatures like a hybrid of human and a dog for protection. They are trained to fight and protect and are normally very scary but somehow I really love them. The scene when Reece sets his Ritter to be a protector of Willow was so cute! Ritters are the best!
MINUS: None. This book is just a perfection.
OVERALL: I expected some decent book considering it is the first book of an author but ended up with my mind blown. It was beyond amazing and I am definitely re-reading it before I get my hands on the second book. Just wow.
Now I do see some issues in this book rereading it in 2021 but I must admit, this book is making me so happy and giddy all the time I can get passed them. I went into it again wanting to fall back in love with reading and its exactly what I got!
REVIEW FROM 2016
THE WORLD: So first of all...amazing! It is very dystopian but also not what you know as dystopian world. So we have a capital which is a center of technology and science and then it is surrounded by this electric storm as protection. And behind the storm you have the rest of the land which is basically small poor villages. Now what is so special about this world? Well...it is all about science. Everything is affected by gene therapy and manipulation, all technologies and everything are there to improve science. It is all about the science and head scientists are the richest people there that have most power. Basically, the smarter you are the richer you get. Pretty great no? Well for me who is a genetics scientist this sounds like a paradise :D
CHARACTERS: So there are two main characters really: Willow and Reece. Willow is a lost daughter of most richest family in the capital. Basically in order to keep the peace she has to marry the son of other richest family. Politics. Anyways, so Willow was raised as a villager and did not know about who she is till a commander aka Reece comes to bring her back. So let's first talk about Willow. She is actually very appealing, surely wild and stands up for herself but she is not whinny and very very reasonable which is always a great quality in the character. I personally felt very attacked to her and cannot wait to see where her story is going to go. Go Willow! And then we have Reece who is plainly speaking a god in this book. In a way he is a little bit like my all time love Warner from Shatter Me series but Reece takes it even further. He is confident and seems as an ass at first but then we get to see more of his personality and it is just...damn damn damn. He is amazing is all I can tell you, it has been so long since I was so in love with a male character. When you are reading about Reece your body is just shivering...love love love.
LOVE: So as I mentioned already, Willow and Reece are just amazing separately but as a matter of fact they are not even a little bit less amazing together either. I love their romance, it has all I need.
PLUS: I love the world, I love the characters and I love the story. What I also love are Ritters. They are these creatures like a hybrid of human and a dog for protection. They are trained to fight and protect and are normally very scary but somehow I really love them. The scene when Reece sets his Ritter to be a protector of Willow was so cute! Ritters are the best!
MINUS: None. This book is just a perfection.
OVERALL: I expected some decent book considering it is the first book of an author but ended up with my mind blown. It was beyond amazing and I am definitely re-reading it before I get my hands on the second book. Just wow.
April 16, 2017
The book covers on Netgalley are always really small on my phone so I never noticed how amazing this cover was until I got a copy. I love how the mix of dagger and butterfly fit the story perfectly. I never would have noticed this book if I hadnt seen it in the most requested section.
I havent read a dystopian type book in a while and I forgot how much I love them. This was a well written story with solid world building and a lot of compelling characters. Many of the secondary characters were facsinating and the pacing was on point. My only issue was the romantic interest but Ill get to that in a second.
After the pre-prodigy wars the core has now complete control of the technology and the best resources. Not even hair bands are shared with the outlying villages. The people from the core are genetically enhanced humans with great skills or abilities. Villagers who happen to develop a skill are shipped to clinics for breeding.
I was hooked from the first page when we meet a young bar wench with a hidden dagger and a dangerous secret. The main character Willows flaws and complexity made her very realistic. She was an interesting character and her love for her family was really touching. I also enjoyed her attitude and temper, especially when she would tell off the commander Reece.
The commander comes to her village threatens her family and tears her away from the only life shes ever known to bring her to the core. He expects complete obedience and isnt above using violence to get his way. That on its own wouldnt make me lower this book to a 4 Star because some characters are written to be hated.
The author intended for Reece to be seen as a brute but my issue is Willow being attracted to him even after his abusive manhandling. She knows the way he treats her isnt right but she still likes him and is willing to over look what he's done. Reece is 7 years older than Willow and was in a position of power over her. I didnt like the way he took advantage of that.
He was so controlling and violent that no redeeming quality would make me like him. Im not an emotional reader but I got angry at Reece often. She didnt like him for most of the book so I was spared from the romantic interest until the last part of the story. They had a very love hate relationship which I know some people enjoy.
I really loved Tem and I wish that Willow would have ended up with him. Throughout the last half of the book I kept saying please dont end up with Reece. Anyone but Reece. I also thought Asp was a great character. Not to mention those Ritters half feline and half 9 year old soldier. They were creepy but ended up growing on me because they purr and they're super loyal.
I appreciated how we got enough details to feel immersed in the world but not too much where it would slow down the story. It was exciting and I wasnt bored at once. Every scene if not immediatly important to the plot was still fun to read about. I was so into the story that reading about all the yummy food made me hungry.
I hope I get a chance to review the sequel when it comes out. Im still waiting on a publication date and its killing me. I need more books by this author. I would recommend this book if your into dystopian and love hate relationships. What I enjoyed the most was the wonderfully crafted world and the fast paced story line.
I havent read a dystopian type book in a while and I forgot how much I love them. This was a well written story with solid world building and a lot of compelling characters. Many of the secondary characters were facsinating and the pacing was on point. My only issue was the romantic interest but Ill get to that in a second.
After the pre-prodigy wars the core has now complete control of the technology and the best resources. Not even hair bands are shared with the outlying villages. The people from the core are genetically enhanced humans with great skills or abilities. Villagers who happen to develop a skill are shipped to clinics for breeding.
I was hooked from the first page when we meet a young bar wench with a hidden dagger and a dangerous secret. The main character Willows flaws and complexity made her very realistic. She was an interesting character and her love for her family was really touching. I also enjoyed her attitude and temper, especially when she would tell off the commander Reece.
The commander comes to her village threatens her family and tears her away from the only life shes ever known to bring her to the core. He expects complete obedience and isnt above using violence to get his way. That on its own wouldnt make me lower this book to a 4 Star because some characters are written to be hated.
The author intended for Reece to be seen as a brute but my issue is Willow being attracted to him even after his abusive manhandling. She knows the way he treats her isnt right but she still likes him and is willing to over look what he's done. Reece is 7 years older than Willow and was in a position of power over her. I didnt like the way he took advantage of that.
He was so controlling and violent that no redeeming quality would make me like him. Im not an emotional reader but I got angry at Reece often. She didnt like him for most of the book so I was spared from the romantic interest until the last part of the story. They had a very love hate relationship which I know some people enjoy.
I really loved Tem and I wish that Willow would have ended up with him. Throughout the last half of the book I kept saying please dont end up with Reece. Anyone but Reece. I also thought Asp was a great character. Not to mention those Ritters half feline and half 9 year old soldier. They were creepy but ended up growing on me because they purr and they're super loyal.
I appreciated how we got enough details to feel immersed in the world but not too much where it would slow down the story. It was exciting and I wasnt bored at once. Every scene if not immediatly important to the plot was still fun to read about. I was so into the story that reading about all the yummy food made me hungry.
I hope I get a chance to review the sequel when it comes out. Im still waiting on a publication date and its killing me. I need more books by this author. I would recommend this book if your into dystopian and love hate relationships. What I enjoyed the most was the wonderfully crafted world and the fast paced story line.
July 12, 2017
"Ogre."
"Brat."
A fascinating mix of High Fantasy, Dystopian and Science Fiction. Highly recommended!
Okay, let me just say that this review is going to be very fangirl-ish, so I'm really sorry if I sound like a 5-year old, but this book did things to my little heart and I, well, let's just say I don't know how else I'm supposed to express my feelings if not that way xD Enjoy!
The story follows a sixteen year old girl named Willow who lives in McKaireth (I hope I remembered it right, haha) a poor village in future England (I think?) Earth's been ravaged by wars, and countries like we know them don't exist anymore. Willow works as a waitress in her family's tavern and supports them in every way she can. When a high-ranking Officer (I will get to him later, oh yeaaahhh *smirks* from the Core (basically the government of their country) shows up in the tavern, her life is about to change forever because Willow is not the person she thinks she is...
In this dystopian world, humans develop remarkable abilities once they reach the age of sixteen, which is called The Surge. Willow doesn't get spared and develops a telekinetic ability that gets stronger the angrier and more emotional she is. Now, I know this doesn't sound any different from other Dystopian novels we have read before. But it is! Oh yes, it is!
Willow is to go with the Core Officer who's assigned to protect her. And protecting her is what he does. I can't tell you why she's expected to go with him, bc that would be a spoiler, sorry. But be assured, my summary isn't even half of it ;)
Willow (my precious badass daughter) is probably the coolest, toughest, smartest and most sarcastic female lead I have ever read about. I was able to connect with her so so well which is a rare thing within in this genre. Her friendship with Gem, a girl who works at the Core, was so sweet and innocent. I seriously need more female friendships in my books!
The sidecharacters were PERFECT! I loved them all. ASPEN *-*
And then there's Reece.
Oh boy, where should I start? Reece was just *YUMM* *giggles like the fangirl I am* He was so fucking hot, I'm not kidding :O
Literally me while reading:
Imagine the most gorgeous male with long blond hair, put Aedion from Throne of Glass and the Greek hero Achilles to the blend and Voilà!
I literally loved EVERYTHING about him and Reece and Willow together...OHHHHH, ALL THE FEEEELS!!
Their scenes were so friggin' adorable I had to put the book down several times bc my heart couldn't handle it xD
(Btw, his power is some sort of forcefield, incredibly good looks and enhanced physical abilities and reflexes)
The world building could've been better in my opinion, but the characters and just the general plotline totally made up for it.
There also were these biologically altered creatures (the size of a little kid) called Ritters whom I would've loved to learn more about. Perhaps in the next book (???)
Praying for the release date and title to be published soon!
August 19, 2015
I'm so glad that I gave this book a shot as it really paid off. A great debut, for fans of Dystopia and Romance. Admittedly the romance aspect does outweigh the Dysopian , but that didn't bother me.
What did bother me was the romantic interest. However, he did end up growing on me and I'm anticipating that some revelations in the future will help me to get behind the romantic interest more. I loved Willow and thought that she was a strong and (mostly) intelligent heroine.
The whole concept of abilities and genetic coding was pretty cool, I hope that the next book expands on this more, but for the first book it featured enough on it to whet my appetite.
Overall my paltry review doesn't do this book justice, but I shall blame that on my currently flu riddled brain. If not for this awesome book I think it likely that I would have gone crazy from being stuck in bed all day. I can't wait for the next one!
Buy, Borrow or Bin Verdict: Buy
Note: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Read
December 10, 2013If you enjoyed The Hunger Games, Divergent, or the X-Men you'll want to check GAMBIT out... but, I'm a post, not a cop. How about this, think of it as a hybrid: "The Hungry, Diverging Men X-Games", or something like that... And, as always, our review will remain star-less and bias-less. Please enjoy this wonderful tale– we assure you, you've never read anything like it before!
♥ REUTS Publications
♥ REUTS Publications
April 19, 2019
****4.5 Heiress Stars****
I really enjoyed this book and instantly fell in love with the characters. I am so glad that I found the second book in this series on NetGalley and was approved for it so I had to read this first.
The world was unique and I loved how each of the characters were developed and went from enemies to friends to hopefully more.
I really enjoyed this book and instantly fell in love with the characters. I am so glad that I found the second book in this series on NetGalley and was approved for it so I had to read this first.
The world was unique and I loved how each of the characters were developed and went from enemies to friends to hopefully more.
May 18, 2015
Gambit has been on my to be read list for what seems like ages, and last Saturday I found the time to sit down and read it. Everything else stopped. I only lifted my head several hours later when I’d finished.
Cary’s story drew me in completely. I haven’t lost myself this much in a book for ages. I never wanted it to end, and whereas it has a satisfactory ending (for now) I nearly cried when it finished. I want more!
I want more of Willow.
I want more of Asp (Something about him makes me smile but also worry)
I want more of Tem (Bless, please don’t forget him)
And I NEED more of Reece!!!
Reece is the sort of man that you can’t help but develop strong feelings for—ones of hate, admiration, confusion, or even pure unadulterated lust. No guessing which category I fall into. I loved Reece from the moment he stepped through the doorway of the tavern. The way Cary revealed his character, bit by bit, was wonderfully done. And I think there is a lot more of him to come—he’s hiding something and I can’t wait to find out what.
There were a few times when I wanted to shake Willow. Some of her decisions were crazy, but she’s only sixteen, so that’s what I’d expect.
I also developed a fond liking of the Ritters. They sound so vile, but they purr! How can anyone hate a creature that purrs and is completely devoted to its owner? Please, please let me have one.
Seriously though, Cary has developed a full set of well-developed and different characters. They came alive on the page for me. The world building was intricate and at times jaw-dropping. Her descriptions were vivid and beautifully written.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series to be out. I NEED to find out what’s in store for Willow, and Reece.
Gambit is a must read for fans of Divergent or Hunger Games. I’m even going to stick my neck out and say IT’S BETTER than either of them!
Cary’s story drew me in completely. I haven’t lost myself this much in a book for ages. I never wanted it to end, and whereas it has a satisfactory ending (for now) I nearly cried when it finished. I want more!
I want more of Willow.
I want more of Asp (Something about him makes me smile but also worry)
I want more of Tem (Bless, please don’t forget him)
And I NEED more of Reece!!!
Reece is the sort of man that you can’t help but develop strong feelings for—ones of hate, admiration, confusion, or even pure unadulterated lust. No guessing which category I fall into. I loved Reece from the moment he stepped through the doorway of the tavern. The way Cary revealed his character, bit by bit, was wonderfully done. And I think there is a lot more of him to come—he’s hiding something and I can’t wait to find out what.
There were a few times when I wanted to shake Willow. Some of her decisions were crazy, but she’s only sixteen, so that’s what I’d expect.
I also developed a fond liking of the Ritters. They sound so vile, but they purr! How can anyone hate a creature that purrs and is completely devoted to its owner? Please, please let me have one.
Seriously though, Cary has developed a full set of well-developed and different characters. They came alive on the page for me. The world building was intricate and at times jaw-dropping. Her descriptions were vivid and beautifully written.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series to be out. I NEED to find out what’s in store for Willow, and Reece.
Gambit is a must read for fans of Divergent or Hunger Games. I’m even going to stick my neck out and say IT’S BETTER than either of them!
August 15, 2015
4.5 stars rounding to 5.
Gambit is a story I came across as I was flipping through pages in NetGalley and I am so glad I took a chance on it. I ended up starting this one and being unable to put it down until I finished.
Willow has grown up outside of the Core as the daughter of a tavern owner. I was immediately pulled into this story where people whose genetic makeup means they have skills that make them valuable, are taken and used by the Core for whatever they want. I thought Denault did a wonderful job of building out this world and using Willow’s new experiences to help explain everything.
The other thing I thought Denault did well was develop the characters of this story. The primary and the secondary characters all have interesting stories and I can’t wait to learn more as the series progresses.
I thought Willow was a solid character. She is strong-willed and as she comes to terms with who she is and what she can do, she is pulled into a life she never really imagined. All she really wanted was to learn who and where she comes from and she ends up with more than she bargained for.
As soon as Reece is introduced, it is clear that things are going to get interesting. He is a genetically enhanced military commander who serves the Core. He also notices something immediately about Willow and as the story progresses, he definitely has an agenda…that includes Willow.
Reece is interesting and not really what I expected. At first he comes across as the bad guy – example:
“So, I’ll give you a choice. You can come along quietly and spare your father’s life. Or I can shower you in his blood and take you by force.” The commander’s smile was heartless. “Choose wisely.”
He is absolutely working toward something, we just don’t know what it is right away and as the story moves forward, I admit it, I started to like him. He begins to change…or at least their feelings toward each other change.
I don’t want to give anything away about what happens but you do need to know that because of who Willow is and who her parents are, people are chasing them the entire time they are headed to the Core to meet her parents…and fulfill her marital contract. As Willow begins to learn about how things really operate in the Core, she begins to understand just what she needs to do in order to stay alive and with the people she cares about.
There is plenty of action, intrigue, and magic in this story to keep you turning the pages and if you haven’t added this one to your to be read list, definitely consider it. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book as I am curious to see where Willow is headed after the way this book ended.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy.
Gambit is a story I came across as I was flipping through pages in NetGalley and I am so glad I took a chance on it. I ended up starting this one and being unable to put it down until I finished.
Willow has grown up outside of the Core as the daughter of a tavern owner. I was immediately pulled into this story where people whose genetic makeup means they have skills that make them valuable, are taken and used by the Core for whatever they want. I thought Denault did a wonderful job of building out this world and using Willow’s new experiences to help explain everything.
The other thing I thought Denault did well was develop the characters of this story. The primary and the secondary characters all have interesting stories and I can’t wait to learn more as the series progresses.
I thought Willow was a solid character. She is strong-willed and as she comes to terms with who she is and what she can do, she is pulled into a life she never really imagined. All she really wanted was to learn who and where she comes from and she ends up with more than she bargained for.
As soon as Reece is introduced, it is clear that things are going to get interesting. He is a genetically enhanced military commander who serves the Core. He also notices something immediately about Willow and as the story progresses, he definitely has an agenda…that includes Willow.
Reece is interesting and not really what I expected. At first he comes across as the bad guy – example:
“So, I’ll give you a choice. You can come along quietly and spare your father’s life. Or I can shower you in his blood and take you by force.” The commander’s smile was heartless. “Choose wisely.”
He is absolutely working toward something, we just don’t know what it is right away and as the story moves forward, I admit it, I started to like him. He begins to change…or at least their feelings toward each other change.
I don’t want to give anything away about what happens but you do need to know that because of who Willow is and who her parents are, people are chasing them the entire time they are headed to the Core to meet her parents…and fulfill her marital contract. As Willow begins to learn about how things really operate in the Core, she begins to understand just what she needs to do in order to stay alive and with the people she cares about.
There is plenty of action, intrigue, and magic in this story to keep you turning the pages and if you haven’t added this one to your to be read list, definitely consider it. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book as I am curious to see where Willow is headed after the way this book ended.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy.
August 21, 2017
ArgHhhH, why? You were doing so well, C.L. Denault -- what happened?
In case you're like me and was expecting something a bit different, spoiler alert time because this is not what Gambit is about:
This is what Gambit is supposed to be about:
No. No, no, no. ArgHhh!
That quote and intention of the book is misleading. You read that quote at the very end and you assume that everything leading up that point was one big strategic warfare with Willow Kent making that first move of the pawn into position. But no. Oh, precious book, you could not pull off the strategic cunning needed to make these characters believably manipulative and shrewd. Just staaahp. The Winner's Curse could pull it off -- you cannot. So staaaahhhp.
THE STORY
1) Willow Kent shares a seemingly similar time period and tavern-maid-strong minded-gal quaintness with Lia from The Kiss of Deception.
2) Then, forbidden "say-it-ain't-so-you're-too-lower-class-for-magic?" magic and transition to upper-class royalty reminiscent of Victoria Aveyard's Red Queen.
3) But whoops, we're actually in a dystopian time period and setting in what used to be London...as if The Queen of the Tearling didn't already teach you not to assume what you know about your setting and time is what you truly know.
4) Enter forbidden-lurve-because-I'm-your-guard/protector
5) And...end scene with wannabe shrewdness and manipulation from The Winner's Curse.
THE GOOD
1) The first several chapters are BRILLIANT. Similar to J.K. Rowling's style of storytelling, the book reels you in immediately by feeding you bits of information chapter by chapter and ending each chapter with some sort of cliffhanger either about the character or about the plot. Right off the first few chapters, we see that Willow Kent is an outsider and hiding important secrets from even her own family. We get that there's a feared military presence riding through town looking for someone specific, we get speshull/hidden powers, and we get hints of danger and intrigue and spunk.
2) Willow Kent's got a wicked sharp temper. She picks both verbal and physical fights with people who are older, stronger, and more dangerous than her, and she rarely backs down. I liked seeing someone with a red-hot temper depicted as both brave but also a bit foolhardy. Homegirl Hulks first and thinks later. Some of her back-and-forths between people are deliciously punchy.
Get 'er, Will!
THE BAD
1) A quarter of the way through, we lose our momentum and water starts running everywhere. What began laser-focused and deliberate then turned into an unorganized, lazy stroll to the end of the book. A good chunk of the book takes Willow Kent and Commander Reece on their way toward the Core where we eventually meet the bland Brady Bunch, tiptoe into The Selection meets Red Queen territory, and ends with a Divergent esque feeling. And it's bland. The plot becomes lazy and watery and gets everywhere.
2) The believability factor. Are we really no-never-mind that Willow is taken forcibly away from her hometown and her family and her childhoodlover best friend? Apparently, we and the characters are down with that because we're soon reuniting over dinner and Face Timing with each other to gush how proud everyone is of Willow for making it out of the Outlying Lands. Our little baby's growing up and becoming nothing like the person we recognize...*sniffs*
And despite the terrible things that Commander Reece has done (e.g. flaying and dismembering her coworker, threatening to shoot her father in the face, beating her friends, taking her from her home, almost killing her childhood best friend, using his physical strength and body to overpower her into submission) we're to believe that Willow begins to fall for him?
3) The loose ends with the characters. So...what happened to poor Piper and and Kenzy? And faux-Morrigan? Is sad Tem going to attend the Gale Hawthorne School of Just Forget He Was An Important Character? Does anybody give two effs about Prince Thess Tiernam and the arranged marriage alliance between him and Willow?
4) The unclear world building. Who the what is Joshua? An angel? What is an angel doing in pseudo-London? Where do people get their powers from and what is the Surge? Is the Core the new Panem? Who is Mercer and what do his merry band of rebels seek to accomplish? So the Core gets iPads and GPS-equipped Hummers while Willow's village gets sticks and rocks...because something terrible happened and now we're punishing District 13?
5) Commander Reece is not a likeable love interest. First off, what's your deal? What's your volatile backhistory with Joshua and are you or are you not a male prostitute? (I don't know why I kept thinking that but I swear that's how I picture his story).
He's got secrets and a mysterious past. We know this because we know very little about him, but none of it is explained and very little is compelling enough to warrant making us wait until Book 2 to find out. All we know is he let his gremlins savagely pull a guy into pieces and that he had no qualms about forcibly and physically bending Willow to his command. I thought he was going to be the antagonist...or a grey protagonist that we put up with...but the love interest? Maybe, if we were reading a dark romance novel.
THE VERDICT
Eh, I'd still read the sequel and sure, half of this book was deliciously entertaining. A good part of the book had the setting/feel of The Kiss of Deception with the special powers and lukewarm political manipulations of Red Queen.
Would I recommend? Sure. See if the beginning pulls you in as hard as it did me.
In case you're like me and was expecting something a bit different, spoiler alert time because this is not what Gambit is about:
This is what Gambit is supposed to be about:
"[The gambit.] It's a sacrifice play made at the beginning of a chess game. Skilled players use it to put themselves in a position of advantage.
Leaving your home for life here was a gambit, sweetheart. No one knows what to expect...and the entire Core is feelings the effects. It was a fantastic move."
No. No, no, no. ArgHhh!
That quote and intention of the book is misleading. You read that quote at the very end and you assume that everything leading up that point was one big strategic warfare with Willow Kent making that first move of the pawn into position. But no. Oh, precious book, you could not pull off the strategic cunning needed to make these characters believably manipulative and shrewd. Just staaahp. The Winner's Curse could pull it off -- you cannot. So staaaahhhp.
THE STORY
1) Willow Kent shares a seemingly similar time period and tavern-maid-strong minded-gal quaintness with Lia from The Kiss of Deception.
2) Then, forbidden "say-it-ain't-so-you're-too-lower-class-for-magic?" magic and transition to upper-class royalty reminiscent of Victoria Aveyard's Red Queen.
3) But whoops, we're actually in a dystopian time period and setting in what used to be London...as if The Queen of the Tearling didn't already teach you not to assume what you know about your setting and time is what you truly know.
4) Enter forbidden-lurve-because-I'm-your-guard/protector
5) And...end scene with wannabe shrewdness and manipulation from The Winner's Curse.
THE GOOD
1) The first several chapters are BRILLIANT. Similar to J.K. Rowling's style of storytelling, the book reels you in immediately by feeding you bits of information chapter by chapter and ending each chapter with some sort of cliffhanger either about the character or about the plot. Right off the first few chapters, we see that Willow Kent is an outsider and hiding important secrets from even her own family. We get that there's a feared military presence riding through town looking for someone specific, we get speshull/hidden powers, and we get hints of danger and intrigue and spunk.
2) Willow Kent's got a wicked sharp temper. She picks both verbal and physical fights with people who are older, stronger, and more dangerous than her, and she rarely backs down. I liked seeing someone with a red-hot temper depicted as both brave but also a bit foolhardy. Homegirl Hulks first and thinks later. Some of her back-and-forths between people are deliciously punchy.
"What's the matter? [Katja] asked with a cutting laugh. "Can't you speak?"
My rebellious nature shot straight to the surface. "Perfectly, when I'm in intelligent company. Think you could find me some?"
Get 'er, Will!
THE BAD
1) A quarter of the way through, we lose our momentum and water starts running everywhere. What began laser-focused and deliberate then turned into an unorganized, lazy stroll to the end of the book. A good chunk of the book takes Willow Kent and Commander Reece on their way toward the Core where we eventually meet the bland Brady Bunch, tiptoe into The Selection meets Red Queen territory, and ends with a Divergent esque feeling. And it's bland. The plot becomes lazy and watery and gets everywhere.
2) The believability factor. Are we really no-never-mind that Willow is taken forcibly away from her hometown and her family and her childhood
And despite the terrible things that Commander Reece has done (e.g. flaying and dismembering her coworker, threatening to shoot her father in the face, beating her friends, taking her from her home, almost killing her childhood best friend, using his physical strength and body to overpower her into submission) we're to believe that Willow begins to fall for him?
3) The loose ends with the characters. So...what happened to poor Piper and and Kenzy? And faux-Morrigan? Is sad Tem going to attend the Gale Hawthorne School of Just Forget He Was An Important Character? Does anybody give two effs about Prince Thess Tiernam and the arranged marriage alliance between him and Willow?
4) The unclear world building. Who the what is Joshua? An angel? What is an angel doing in pseudo-London? Where do people get their powers from and what is the Surge? Is the Core the new Panem? Who is Mercer and what do his merry band of rebels seek to accomplish? So the Core gets iPads and GPS-equipped Hummers while Willow's village gets sticks and rocks...because something terrible happened and now we're punishing District 13?
5) Commander Reece is not a likeable love interest. First off, what's your deal? What's your volatile backhistory with Joshua and are you or are you not a male prostitute? (I don't know why I kept thinking that but I swear that's how I picture his story).
He's got secrets and a mysterious past. We know this because we know very little about him, but none of it is explained and very little is compelling enough to warrant making us wait until Book 2 to find out. All we know is he let his gremlins savagely pull a guy into pieces and that he had no qualms about forcibly and physically bending Willow to his command. I thought he was going to be the antagonist...or a grey protagonist that we put up with...but the love interest? Maybe, if we were reading a dark romance novel.
THE VERDICT
Eh, I'd still read the sequel and sure, half of this book was deliciously entertaining. A good part of the book had the setting/feel of The Kiss of Deception with the special powers and lukewarm political manipulations of Red Queen.
Would I recommend? Sure. See if the beginning pulls you in as hard as it did me.
November 7, 2017
Find more reviews on my blog, The Araliya Bookshelf
This is not an easy book to review. While the world building was decent, the plot was good and the characters well built, there is an ugly fact that I can't let go of: This book romanticises abuse. Let me tell you how. (There will be spoilers below, but it won't really matter because you really shouldn't pick this book up)
So in this book, our "love interest" is Reece, a very speshul officer who was sent to get Willow because she turned out to be a "prodigy". If Reece made an account on an online dating site, here's what it'd say:
Twenty-year-old man looking for a sixteen year old girl (whose name preferably is associated with a tree), very handsome, emotionally volatile, with anger issues and a great rank in the Army of Sociopathic A-holes.
Talents include:
+Killing innocent villagers that you know, just because "they stand in his way".
+Physically harming sixteen-year-old girls just to prove a point. (After all, violence is always the answer, right?)
+Beating up your teacher in order to manipulate you into doing what he wants.
+Being an extreme control freak.
+Causing physical and/or emotional damage to anyone who dares stand up to him, just because he can.
Sounds like a real dream, doesn't he? Willow certainly seems to think so. Reece rips Willow away from her life, makes her watch her beloved teacher get beaten up, manipulates her, belittles her, insults her all the damn time, and physically harms her on three separate occasions (the foremost reason for which is the fact that Willow defies him and we can't have that, now, can we?). And Willow falls for him. Over and over again, he hurts her, both physically and emotionally, and she keeps making excuses for him. I really don't know about you, but that screams abusive relationship to me.
"Ironic, is it not, that the only man allowed to kiss you is the same man who will kill anyone else that dares try?"
A small example of Reece's controlling nature. Control freaks are so attractive these days.
And worst part is SHE ACTUALLY SAVES HIS JOB FOR HIM IN THE END, for no other reason besides the fact that she wants him to be near her (his job is to "protect" her. If he gets the sack, then he wouldn't be able to be near her anymore). Wow. I totally get your reasoning, Willow. Like, "oh, he's hurt me and abused me so many times, but that's only because he has a troubled past, and it was all for my own good anyways, so when I finally have the opportunity to get rid of the man who made my life a misery, I'M GOING TO SAVE HIS JOB BECAUSE I CAN'T BE WITHOUT HIM."
And this is ALL romanticised. The author makes it seem like this whole relationship is healthy and that it's okay to lust after the man who ruined your life.
Of course, you absolutely hate him at first (like Willow did), but once he reveals the full depths of his sadism, you fall for him (like Willow did). Obviously, you try to keep your distance because he could hurt you, and you keep telling yourself not to get too involved (like Willow did) but when you get the perfect opportunity to be rid of him forever, of course you must save his job because you just can't do without him. The author makes it seem okay to be like Willow, to know that a guy is truly dangerous, but still not be able to keep away from him because he is so hot and mysterious.
The author makes it look like the relationship between Reece and Willow is healthy, and that it's completely okay to be undecided about a guy who abuses you, physically and emotionally. THAT IS NOT OKAY, and it's not healthy.
Reece makes typical YA "badboys" such as Daemon Black, Edward Cullen or Patch Cipriano look like fluffy bunnies. The "romance" (and it shouldn't even be called that) is pretty horrifying. Gambit is a dystopian/fantasy book, and while it may not be a terrible book in terms of technical literary criteria, the relationship that runs through the entire book is poisonous, and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who finds romanticised abusive relationships to be repulsive. I'm not going to rate this because I really don't know how to.
This is not an easy book to review. While the world building was decent, the plot was good and the characters well built, there is an ugly fact that I can't let go of: This book romanticises abuse. Let me tell you how. (There will be spoilers below, but it won't really matter because you really shouldn't pick this book up)
So in this book, our "love interest" is Reece, a very speshul officer who was sent to get Willow because she turned out to be a "prodigy". If Reece made an account on an online dating site, here's what it'd say:
Twenty-year-old man looking for a sixteen year old girl (whose name preferably is associated with a tree), very handsome, emotionally volatile, with anger issues and a great rank in the Army of Sociopathic A-holes.
Talents include:
+Killing innocent villagers that you know, just because "they stand in his way".
+Physically harming sixteen-year-old girls just to prove a point. (After all, violence is always the answer, right?)
+Beating up your teacher in order to manipulate you into doing what he wants.
+Being an extreme control freak.
+Causing physical and/or emotional damage to anyone who dares stand up to him, just because he can.
Sounds like a real dream, doesn't he? Willow certainly seems to think so. Reece rips Willow away from her life, makes her watch her beloved teacher get beaten up, manipulates her, belittles her, insults her all the damn time, and physically harms her on three separate occasions (the foremost reason for which is the fact that Willow defies him and we can't have that, now, can we?). And Willow falls for him. Over and over again, he hurts her, both physically and emotionally, and she keeps making excuses for him. I really don't know about you, but that screams abusive relationship to me.
"Ironic, is it not, that the only man allowed to kiss you is the same man who will kill anyone else that dares try?"
A small example of Reece's controlling nature. Control freaks are so attractive these days.
And worst part is SHE ACTUALLY SAVES HIS JOB FOR HIM IN THE END, for no other reason besides the fact that she wants him to be near her (his job is to "protect" her. If he gets the sack, then he wouldn't be able to be near her anymore). Wow. I totally get your reasoning, Willow. Like, "oh, he's hurt me and abused me so many times, but that's only because he has a troubled past, and it was all for my own good anyways, so when I finally have the opportunity to get rid of the man who made my life a misery, I'M GOING TO SAVE HIS JOB BECAUSE I CAN'T BE WITHOUT HIM."
And this is ALL romanticised. The author makes it seem like this whole relationship is healthy and that it's okay to lust after the man who ruined your life.
Of course, you absolutely hate him at first (like Willow did), but once he reveals the full depths of his sadism, you fall for him (like Willow did). Obviously, you try to keep your distance because he could hurt you, and you keep telling yourself not to get too involved (like Willow did) but when you get the perfect opportunity to be rid of him forever, of course you must save his job because you just can't do without him. The author makes it seem okay to be like Willow, to know that a guy is truly dangerous, but still not be able to keep away from him because he is so hot and mysterious.
The author makes it look like the relationship between Reece and Willow is healthy, and that it's completely okay to be undecided about a guy who abuses you, physically and emotionally. THAT IS NOT OKAY, and it's not healthy.
Reece makes typical YA "badboys" such as Daemon Black, Edward Cullen or Patch Cipriano look like fluffy bunnies. The "romance" (and it shouldn't even be called that) is pretty horrifying. Gambit is a dystopian/fantasy book, and while it may not be a terrible book in terms of technical literary criteria, the relationship that runs through the entire book is poisonous, and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who finds romanticised abusive relationships to be repulsive. I'm not going to rate this because I really don't know how to.
July 8, 2017
HannahCassie recommended me this book since she loved it and we're both science nerds. And it really was amazing! I am so looking forward reading the next books!
THE WORLD: It's a futuristic dystopian world and the book takes place around the Core which would be our nowadays London. Technology is really advanced and DNA profiling + genetic manipulation is the key. Why? Because good DNA would equal people with powers! Yes, power like telekinesis or super strengh, etc. You can imagine. Those powers come up at the age of 16 (at the so called the Surge) and it's dangerous. Some people die during the Surge but if you survive and have powerful DNA then you come back with powers.
CHARACTERS: The main character is Willow Kent. She is 16 and lives in a tiny village outside the Core (which is the capital and main city where mostly rich people live and it's governed by two families: the Roanoke and the Tiernam) called McKaireth with her family. From the very beginning of the book she states that looks nothing like her parents and siblings so it is no surprise to think she is "adopted". By the way, she's quite a character! She's mostly sassy, sensible, badass... although she has annoying moments but that's only because she's under lots of stress. Her best friend is a boy called Temsik "Tem" Storm. I didn't like him much to be honest, well I mean I didn't care about him at all. Why waste energy on him when I could waste it swooning over Reece? ♥
Reece is the Commandant of the Roanoke family and is sent to the villages in a mission... that's where the book starts really. At first I wanted to hate him but it was impossible. I loved him from the start even though he gives contradictory vibes. We see his Commandant side (rough, tough, bossy) but also his soft side (protective, romantic) and ppfff I wanted to melt. Babe.
Then we also have side characters like Willow's defense instructor Kane Hill, and a guardian called Joshua... oh and also the Tiernam's heir, Thess, among others.
I didn't really care that much for the other characters and the MCs are Willow and Reece so I'll leave it like this.
LOVE: There is not that much love although there is a very tricky situation going on... but I think I know where feelings are going. I'm not a fan of big age gaps (not that big! that'd be creepy) but I can't help but ship it.
PLUS: To be honest I liked everything. The beginning was predictable but it got better and more complicated towards the end. The series will be 4 books so there is plenty of room for plot and character development!
The characters were good and complex but the best was Reece without a doubt. He was so mysterious and interesting. I want more background because I sense he has quite a few secrets.
Also the biology touches here and there, the genetic manipulation... amazing! Did I mention the Ritters? They're half human hybrids who were developed for protection. They're creepy but super cool and loyal.
MINUS: I... guess... none?
OVERALL: 5 stars and goes to favorites. I feel like I've discovered a new planet or something. I thought Dystopian books were on decay lately but this one was amazing. 100% recommended!
—P.S. I Love That Book!
THE WORLD: It's a futuristic dystopian world and the book takes place around the Core which would be our nowadays London. Technology is really advanced and DNA profiling + genetic manipulation is the key. Why? Because good DNA would equal people with powers! Yes, power like telekinesis or super strengh, etc. You can imagine. Those powers come up at the age of 16 (at the so called the Surge) and it's dangerous. Some people die during the Surge but if you survive and have powerful DNA then you come back with powers.
CHARACTERS: The main character is Willow Kent. She is 16 and lives in a tiny village outside the Core (which is the capital and main city where mostly rich people live and it's governed by two families: the Roanoke and the Tiernam) called McKaireth with her family. From the very beginning of the book she states that looks nothing like her parents and siblings so it is no surprise to think she is "adopted". By the way, she's quite a character! She's mostly sassy, sensible, badass... although she has annoying moments but that's only because she's under lots of stress. Her best friend is a boy called Temsik "Tem" Storm. I didn't like him much to be honest, well I mean I didn't care about him at all. Why waste energy on him when I could waste it swooning over Reece? ♥
Reece is the Commandant of the Roanoke family and is sent to the villages in a mission... that's where the book starts really. At first I wanted to hate him but it was impossible. I loved him from the start even though he gives contradictory vibes. We see his Commandant side (rough, tough, bossy) but also his soft side (protective, romantic) and ppfff I wanted to melt. Babe.
Then we also have side characters like Willow's defense instructor Kane Hill, and a guardian called Joshua... oh and also the Tiernam's heir, Thess, among others.
I didn't really care that much for the other characters and the MCs are Willow and Reece so I'll leave it like this.
LOVE: There is not that much love although there is a very tricky situation going on... but I think I know where feelings are going. I'm not a fan of big age gaps (not that big! that'd be creepy) but I can't help but ship it.
PLUS: To be honest I liked everything. The beginning was predictable but it got better and more complicated towards the end. The series will be 4 books so there is plenty of room for plot and character development!
The characters were good and complex but the best was Reece without a doubt. He was so mysterious and interesting. I want more background because I sense he has quite a few secrets.
Also the biology touches here and there, the genetic manipulation... amazing! Did I mention the Ritters? They're half human hybrids who were developed for protection. They're creepy but super cool and loyal.
MINUS: I... guess... none?
OVERALL: 5 stars and goes to favorites. I feel like I've discovered a new planet or something. I thought Dystopian books were on decay lately but this one was amazing. 100% recommended!
—P.S. I Love That Book!
August 16, 2015
Normally I wait a bit before reviewing a book to let it sink in a bit but in Gambit's case, I just finished it and I actually thought about contacting the author (which I've never done) - just to say how much I loved it. It always saddens me to find out that an awesome book is a debut book because I just want to keep reading everything the author's written but now I have to WAIT.
Noooooooo!!!!
Where to begin? I'll keep it to one breath: (no spoilers as usual). Willow Kent is 16-year old barmaid who's surrounded by a loving family and simply brought up in a country far removed from it's Core City. Her character is so well written, I can hear her brogue, feel her heart and follow her ups and downs so well when her life is drastically changed, that I cried with her and laughed with her and yes, totally swooned with her when she comes across a fine speciment of a man, Reece who's charged with protecting her from those who would murder her, dissect her and use her organs (yep, you gotta read it).
It briefly reminded of Blood Red Rising (that trilogy and the Grisha Trilogy were the last trilogies I read where I got so caught up in the series) because of the force of nature the young women; their stubborness and toughness that hide a very simple and loving heart.
Congrats to C.L. Denault - I will read anything you write!
Noooooooo!!!!
Where to begin? I'll keep it to one breath: (no spoilers as usual). Willow Kent is 16-year old barmaid who's surrounded by a loving family and simply brought up in a country far removed from it's Core City. Her character is so well written, I can hear her brogue, feel her heart and follow her ups and downs so well when her life is drastically changed, that I cried with her and laughed with her and yes, totally swooned with her when she comes across a fine speciment of a man, Reece who's charged with protecting her from those who would murder her, dissect her and use her organs (yep, you gotta read it).
It briefly reminded of Blood Red Rising (that trilogy and the Grisha Trilogy were the last trilogies I read where I got so caught up in the series) because of the force of nature the young women; their stubborness and toughness that hide a very simple and loving heart.
Congrats to C.L. Denault - I will read anything you write!
May 20, 2015
I recieved an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
In a world where 'skills' mean fame, power and riches Willow and her family try to survive. But when an officer from the Core finds out and questions her identity, Willow will be forced to leave bhind everything she loves.
I became obsessed with the book after its cover reveal. I mean look at the dagger and the butterfly behind!
But when the copy came to my hands, I devoured it. Cary manages to develop many characters and each one has a unique element to offer. Reece is mysterious, Willow despite her age matures and Asp with Tem offer more insight to the Core and its residents. What I loved the most especially in the first chapters was the strong bonds Willow's family has. I loved everydescription of the life in the tavern, how Willow played with ther brothers and her parents and their interactions with the villagers.
"Gambit" left me with promises for more Skills more romance and even greater adventures! A recommened read for those who want to become like X-men (admit it you want Wolverin's claws right? But the wings are mine!)
In a world where 'skills' mean fame, power and riches Willow and her family try to survive. But when an officer from the Core finds out and questions her identity, Willow will be forced to leave bhind everything she loves.
I became obsessed with the book after its cover reveal. I mean look at the dagger and the butterfly behind!
But when the copy came to my hands, I devoured it. Cary manages to develop many characters and each one has a unique element to offer. Reece is mysterious, Willow despite her age matures and Asp with Tem offer more insight to the Core and its residents. What I loved the most especially in the first chapters was the strong bonds Willow's family has. I loved everydescription of the life in the tavern, how Willow played with ther brothers and her parents and their interactions with the villagers.
"Gambit" left me with promises for more Skills more romance and even greater adventures! A recommened read for those who want to become like X-men (admit it you want Wolverin's claws right? But the wings are mine!)
March 20, 2016
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Same Review Also Posted In My Blog: Dreamy Addictions
* E-copy received from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review *
I’m so conflicted in writing this review because I liked this book but at the same time I hated it. When I first found out about this book, what really lured me wasn’t the eye catching cover but the intriguing blurb which sounded like totally my kinda book and I also happen to love books having aloof strong male characters in a dystopian world. Honestly, I’ve enjoyed reading this book but it definitely has it’s ups and downs. The characters, the world building and the writing were pretty good but I had a slight problem with the second half of the plot. Nonetheless, it was good introduction to the prodigy chronicles.
The story is set in a futuristic London where humans with extra ordinary skills live in a place called core with fame, power, technology and money and those without skills are lived far away from the core, living their lives in poverty and deprived of technology. Sixteen-year-old Willow Kent leads a simple life at a village named McKaireth with her parents who runs a reputable tavern. The people of McKaireth gets startled with the sudden appearance of a core military officer at their village. At the tavern, when Willow caught his attention, he gets curious and questions her identity which will bring a lot of troubles to her if they are revealed. When long buried secrets gets emerged, the core officer eventually finds her real identity and makes it his duty to send her to the core that means leaving her happy life in her village. It seems Willow has an extra-ordinary skill that many would kill to obtain. Now Willow has a new destiny to follow where she needs to marry a stranger for the sake of peace and she also must stop her growing attraction towards her captor who snatched her from a life filled with freedom and happiness.
Willow is a likable character who’s got quite a stubborn personality and doesn’t give up without a fight. Actually, I really liked her but she wasn’t that great either. I think Sixteen is way too young and it would’ve been better if she was either seventeen or eighteen. Some readers might get displeased with her attraction towards a certain cold hearted officer who abducted her from her family. Reece is a character that I really don’t get it and he’s a character that you either hate him or love him. Basically, I love male characters who are dark, handsome, cold and aloof but Reece’s bipolar personality seemed really annoying and also confusing sometimes. In the first half we see him as a cold hearted A-hole who abuses her whenever she doesn’t surrender to his authority and in the second half we see him as a total different person acting sweet and helps brushing Willow’s hair with a comb which is something I didn’t expected from a military officer who kills and abuses humans without a care. Despite all of these issues, I would still ship their relationship cause I’m always sucker for bad guys. The hot and cold relationship between Willow and Reece may seem confusing sometimes but I really enjoyed the chemistry between them which is hot and steamy. Tim is another love interest who is really a sweet guy with fun personality. He is childhood best friend of Willow and also hopelessly in love with her but she sees him only as a best friend so there’s no triangle for us yet. There are some interesting supporting characters in the second part of the plot that we didn’t get to know much about but I would love to know more about them in the sequel.
The plot is both mysterious and suspenseful but somewhere in the middle, things got really slow with nothing happening. There was great intensity through out the first half but when Willow finally reached the core the plot was dragged with unnecessary makeover sessions, proper etiquette lessons, training sessions, fun at the swim pool scenes which bored me a bit and I’m glad when the pace finally improved with a sudden attack from a rebellion force. There isn’t that much action as I expected but I hope the sequel would be more action packed. The whole book is written in Willow’s POV and I enjoyed exploring everything through her eyes. The world building is really amazing and I would love to know more about the core and the outlying lands. I loved the writing! Miss Denault has a compelling, gripping writing style that kept me engaged through out. There’s also a nice character development of Willow who finally transformed from a impulsive, vulnerable and stubborn girl into a strong and mature woman.
Overall, I think it’s a great debut and very entertaining. I’ll definitely look forward to the sequel cause there were so many questions, so many things left unanswered and I’m very curious to find them out.
Gambit is a YA debut filled with action, romance, mystery, and intrigue. I would highly recommend it to all the readers who loves YA dystopian romance books.
Same Review Also Posted In My Blog: Dreamy Addictions
* E-copy received from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review *
I’m so conflicted in writing this review because I liked this book but at the same time I hated it. When I first found out about this book, what really lured me wasn’t the eye catching cover but the intriguing blurb which sounded like totally my kinda book and I also happen to love books having aloof strong male characters in a dystopian world. Honestly, I’ve enjoyed reading this book but it definitely has it’s ups and downs. The characters, the world building and the writing were pretty good but I had a slight problem with the second half of the plot. Nonetheless, it was good introduction to the prodigy chronicles.
The story is set in a futuristic London where humans with extra ordinary skills live in a place called core with fame, power, technology and money and those without skills are lived far away from the core, living their lives in poverty and deprived of technology. Sixteen-year-old Willow Kent leads a simple life at a village named McKaireth with her parents who runs a reputable tavern. The people of McKaireth gets startled with the sudden appearance of a core military officer at their village. At the tavern, when Willow caught his attention, he gets curious and questions her identity which will bring a lot of troubles to her if they are revealed. When long buried secrets gets emerged, the core officer eventually finds her real identity and makes it his duty to send her to the core that means leaving her happy life in her village. It seems Willow has an extra-ordinary skill that many would kill to obtain. Now Willow has a new destiny to follow where she needs to marry a stranger for the sake of peace and she also must stop her growing attraction towards her captor who snatched her from a life filled with freedom and happiness.
Willow is a likable character who’s got quite a stubborn personality and doesn’t give up without a fight. Actually, I really liked her but she wasn’t that great either. I think Sixteen is way too young and it would’ve been better if she was either seventeen or eighteen. Some readers might get displeased with her attraction towards a certain cold hearted officer who abducted her from her family. Reece is a character that I really don’t get it and he’s a character that you either hate him or love him. Basically, I love male characters who are dark, handsome, cold and aloof but Reece’s bipolar personality seemed really annoying and also confusing sometimes. In the first half we see him as a cold hearted A-hole who abuses her whenever she doesn’t surrender to his authority and in the second half we see him as a total different person acting sweet and helps brushing Willow’s hair with a comb which is something I didn’t expected from a military officer who kills and abuses humans without a care. Despite all of these issues, I would still ship their relationship cause I’m always sucker for bad guys. The hot and cold relationship between Willow and Reece may seem confusing sometimes but I really enjoyed the chemistry between them which is hot and steamy. Tim is another love interest who is really a sweet guy with fun personality. He is childhood best friend of Willow and also hopelessly in love with her but she sees him only as a best friend so there’s no triangle for us yet. There are some interesting supporting characters in the second part of the plot that we didn’t get to know much about but I would love to know more about them in the sequel.
The plot is both mysterious and suspenseful but somewhere in the middle, things got really slow with nothing happening. There was great intensity through out the first half but when Willow finally reached the core the plot was dragged with unnecessary makeover sessions, proper etiquette lessons, training sessions, fun at the swim pool scenes which bored me a bit and I’m glad when the pace finally improved with a sudden attack from a rebellion force. There isn’t that much action as I expected but I hope the sequel would be more action packed. The whole book is written in Willow’s POV and I enjoyed exploring everything through her eyes. The world building is really amazing and I would love to know more about the core and the outlying lands. I loved the writing! Miss Denault has a compelling, gripping writing style that kept me engaged through out. There’s also a nice character development of Willow who finally transformed from a impulsive, vulnerable and stubborn girl into a strong and mature woman.
Overall, I think it’s a great debut and very entertaining. I’ll definitely look forward to the sequel cause there were so many questions, so many things left unanswered and I’m very curious to find them out.
Gambit is a YA debut filled with action, romance, mystery, and intrigue. I would highly recommend it to all the readers who loves YA dystopian romance books.
June 8, 2021
Thanks go to Netgalley for giving me an arc for this book.
At first I wasn’t quite sure what I would think of Gambit. The main character definitely had a strong feel about her and I soon found myself wanting to read more about her and what would happen. The premise is a familiar one, a girl who finds out she’s not what or who she thought she was and has to adapt and deal with her new life. However, despite the fact that it’s a story element often used in young adult books nowadays, I found myself enjoying the stories.
This, mostly, was thanks to its characters. Willow was a good female lead, though at the end she felt a little weak to me. This was due to her relationship with Reece. It’s one of the few things I don’t like about the book. To me, it felt wrong. Not only is the age difference a bit iffy, but the way Reece is made it feel somewhat of an abuse relationship at some times.
However, the other characters made up for this, especially Aspen. I found myself enjoying his character very much – his spirit and personality is what I often enjoy in a character - and hope to learn he’s all right in a next book. Halt, too, was a man I enjoyed to read. Despite his roughness, there was a humour to him and a light side. It’s a shame that for the last part of the book, he was only mentioned but not present. Thess to me could’ve been introduced sooner.
The ending, to me, didn’t seem as big or climatic as I might’ve expected and that was quite a shame but I would definitely read the sequel.
The idea of the Ritters was a rather interesting one. I found them both somewhat frightening but mostly a good invention of a new type of creature.
At some points I felt like more information could have been given for characters or past events but I feel on the other hand that some things may be kept for a sequel. However, I wasn’t quite sure in the first few chapters what things like the Surge or powers were and when it was said that this story is set in our world – in a way – I felt as if that could’ve been introduced a bit sooner. Of course, I could see the influences of Scottish and Scotland in the writing, but it wasn’t that I could see that this was set in an alternate version of our world. Perhaps I would’ve preferred it if it was an all-out different world.
However, despite that, I enjoyed the book very much. It was well-paced though at times maybe a little rushed. I would definitely recommend this book to people who are looking for a book like Red Queen perhaps, a book with a good female lead and an interesting way of working with a familiar plot setup.
At first I wasn’t quite sure what I would think of Gambit. The main character definitely had a strong feel about her and I soon found myself wanting to read more about her and what would happen. The premise is a familiar one, a girl who finds out she’s not what or who she thought she was and has to adapt and deal with her new life. However, despite the fact that it’s a story element often used in young adult books nowadays, I found myself enjoying the stories.
This, mostly, was thanks to its characters. Willow was a good female lead, though at the end she felt a little weak to me. This was due to her relationship with Reece. It’s one of the few things I don’t like about the book. To me, it felt wrong. Not only is the age difference a bit iffy, but the way Reece is made it feel somewhat of an abuse relationship at some times.
However, the other characters made up for this, especially Aspen. I found myself enjoying his character very much – his spirit and personality is what I often enjoy in a character - and hope to learn he’s all right in a next book. Halt, too, was a man I enjoyed to read. Despite his roughness, there was a humour to him and a light side. It’s a shame that for the last part of the book, he was only mentioned but not present. Thess to me could’ve been introduced sooner.
The ending, to me, didn’t seem as big or climatic as I might’ve expected and that was quite a shame but I would definitely read the sequel.
The idea of the Ritters was a rather interesting one. I found them both somewhat frightening but mostly a good invention of a new type of creature.
At some points I felt like more information could have been given for characters or past events but I feel on the other hand that some things may be kept for a sequel. However, I wasn’t quite sure in the first few chapters what things like the Surge or powers were and when it was said that this story is set in our world – in a way – I felt as if that could’ve been introduced a bit sooner. Of course, I could see the influences of Scottish and Scotland in the writing, but it wasn’t that I could see that this was set in an alternate version of our world. Perhaps I would’ve preferred it if it was an all-out different world.
However, despite that, I enjoyed the book very much. It was well-paced though at times maybe a little rushed. I would definitely recommend this book to people who are looking for a book like Red Queen perhaps, a book with a good female lead and an interesting way of working with a familiar plot setup.
June 1, 2015
A well written story of Willow, a girl who discovers she's not who she thought she was and her life gets flipped upside down. The world, a future Earth, in GAMBIT is fascinating. I couldn't wait to see what would happen next and where the journey would take me. The characters really made this book for me. Willow, even through her tantrums, which I thought were over the top and a bit annoying, is cool, she doesn't like to take any crap. Reece... there's more to you, sir, and I want to know what it is. Joshua... I'm not sure about you, you're too nice. Tem... I miss you terribly.
At the end of the book, Willow really starts to embrace who she is and I will be ready to read the sequel.
At the end of the book, Willow really starts to embrace who she is and I will be ready to read the sequel.
August 4, 2017
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
One of my favourite books of this year, Gambit is very different to the sort of book that I like to read. Although I may regard the emergent 'romance-dystopia' genre with cynical apprehension, Gambit is a fine example of a book that pulls 'romance-dystopia' off. With C.L. Denault's excellent writing, this book is an exemplary balance between the two genres. With books of its ilk often forsaking its dystopian elements in favour of the romance, readers will be pleased to know that the romance in Gambit does not hinder the momentum of the plot and the characters' developments; in fact, it enhanced it. (Readers, rejoice!)
The success of Gambit as a romance-dystopian is largely attributed to its narrative; it is centred entirely on Willow's character development, and it never strays from this direction. Willow's growth as an individual is what propels the plot, themes, worldbuilding, or the essence of the book forward. Her journey is one that is shared with the reader; as Willow learns about the Core, her condition, and the people around her, the more the reader does also. Exposition is kept to a bare minimum, and the worldbuilding is thus a process of learning and discovering the world in Gambit and its condition. As we are thrust into a tumultuous time of Willow's life, Denault leaves small clues hidden in the nooks and crannies of the dialogue and storytelling that gradually paint a subtle and surprisingly intricate world.
Often dystopia novels explore themes of oppressor versus oppressed with a strong emphasis on power and economic disparities between two classes to highlight the plight of the oppressed, and how individuals of lower echelons may harbour clear resentment towards the hegemonic group. Some young adult dystopian novels may offer a vivid picture of two classes, easily differentiated by their haves and have not's. The class struggle that inevitably ensues often become a focal motif of the narrative. Whilst these elements are certainly implied in Gambit, with the Core's calculating society and the hard but honest life in the village, its discourse is much more subtle. In Gambit, dystopia is approached quite differently, and the differences are captivating.
Denault transports us to a time where genetics is the currency of the future. Though this is not a far cry from many other imagined dystopias, rather than seeing how subjection affects an entire group of peoples, the focus lies on how it affects Willow; how she is cautious around men in the tavern because of the lack of security, how she experiences offhand classism, how her life in the village has shaped her language and understanding of the things around her, and even her consciousness of the Core's power. As much as I love reading dystopians with overt themes, it was refreshing to read a dystopian that still offered socio-political commentary but through the lens of a young girl. Rather than being an analysis of something systemic and societal, Gambit is an exploration of the individual and her lived experiences.
The pleasure of Gambit is that Willow is a fantastic protagonist and heroine. Some months ago I talked a great deal about 'strong female characters' so I am pleased to say that Willow is not a shallow female character with cookie-cutter characteristics. Willow may be determined, good at heart, and able to fight (and with good reason!), but she is also vulnerable, hot-headed (and not superficially so), and sometimes naive. There are times where she toughs out the bad, but also times where longing for her family gets the best of her. She throws tantrums, she cries, she is defiant, and has moments of immaturity (though it is never annoying). Simply put, Willow is a complex, multifaceted teenage girl, and that fact is never lost in the narrative. Denault understands teenagers and her portrayal of Willow is consistent, realistic, and positively earnest.
There is, of course, the romance - an aspect of the novel in which I hold many thoughts and also reservations. The dynamic between Willow and the romantic interest is certainly complex with a volatile nature, which makes the story and its effects on Willow gripping and addictive. The relationship oscillates between affectionate and morally questionable. There are moments when he is manipulative and times where he is fighting for her trust - and yet, what keeps me from dismissing this altogether is that it is written with absolute self-awareness. Willow never permits the romantic interest's contentious behaviour, and in extension the actions itself are thus not glorified. On the contrary, she calls him out on it and continuously questions his character and agenda. (And the romantic interest is hiding something, a deep and terrible secret, and I need to know what it is.)
More so, their different births, upbringing and therefore worldviews create a palpable friction that is compelling and intense. Is Willow's attraction towards him naivete or infatuation? Whilst I cannot deny that there is an attraction between the two characters - though its nature is yet to be revealed, and I do find the relationship incredibly engaging - this was an element in the book that has kept me guessing throughout. After all, Willow is young, only sixteen years old. Gambit calls us to ask ourselves truly and honestly: how would our sixteen year old selves handle such a tumultuous journey ingrained with vicious political conflict of another world that is beyond our comprehension and understanding? (For most of us, probably not very well at all. And try as she might, that's the case for Willow too.)
Gambit is an excellent and solid start to, what I expect will be, a fantastic and exciting trilogy. There's mystery, political intrigue, and a great deal of hidden agendas - enough to satisfy and just enough to arouse your curiousity without being deceptively vague. With the story now in momentum, what we learn in Gambit is just the tip of the iceberg; I have a feeling that there is more to see and more to come. At its heart, Gambit took all the elements of young adult dystopia that I despise, and proved to me that it is very possible to have a well-written and thoughtful romance-dystopian. I was wrong. Denault, you have humbled me.
If there's one thing I'd like for you to take away from my review of Gambit, it is that I enjoyed it, a lot. Sometimes there are books that are meant to change your perspective, or maybe they are meant to awaken a consciousness of today's injustices. But sometimes, with books like Gambit, it is as pure and simple as being whisked away on a whirlwind, exciting adventure. Throughout my teenage years, I daydreamed about these incredible fantasy worlds with my own characters and stories - three years ago that imagination faded away, replaced by plans and fears for my future. Gambit, however, rekindled my imagination. I have started dreaming again.
On that note, GIMME BOOK TWO.
Rating: 4/5
-
Review can also be found on my book blog, Read, Think, Ponder!
One of my favourite books of this year, Gambit is very different to the sort of book that I like to read. Although I may regard the emergent 'romance-dystopia' genre with cynical apprehension, Gambit is a fine example of a book that pulls 'romance-dystopia' off. With C.L. Denault's excellent writing, this book is an exemplary balance between the two genres. With books of its ilk often forsaking its dystopian elements in favour of the romance, readers will be pleased to know that the romance in Gambit does not hinder the momentum of the plot and the characters' developments; in fact, it enhanced it. (Readers, rejoice!)
The success of Gambit as a romance-dystopian is largely attributed to its narrative; it is centred entirely on Willow's character development, and it never strays from this direction. Willow's growth as an individual is what propels the plot, themes, worldbuilding, or the essence of the book forward. Her journey is one that is shared with the reader; as Willow learns about the Core, her condition, and the people around her, the more the reader does also. Exposition is kept to a bare minimum, and the worldbuilding is thus a process of learning and discovering the world in Gambit and its condition. As we are thrust into a tumultuous time of Willow's life, Denault leaves small clues hidden in the nooks and crannies of the dialogue and storytelling that gradually paint a subtle and surprisingly intricate world.
Often dystopia novels explore themes of oppressor versus oppressed with a strong emphasis on power and economic disparities between two classes to highlight the plight of the oppressed, and how individuals of lower echelons may harbour clear resentment towards the hegemonic group. Some young adult dystopian novels may offer a vivid picture of two classes, easily differentiated by their haves and have not's. The class struggle that inevitably ensues often become a focal motif of the narrative. Whilst these elements are certainly implied in Gambit, with the Core's calculating society and the hard but honest life in the village, its discourse is much more subtle. In Gambit, dystopia is approached quite differently, and the differences are captivating.
Denault transports us to a time where genetics is the currency of the future. Though this is not a far cry from many other imagined dystopias, rather than seeing how subjection affects an entire group of peoples, the focus lies on how it affects Willow; how she is cautious around men in the tavern because of the lack of security, how she experiences offhand classism, how her life in the village has shaped her language and understanding of the things around her, and even her consciousness of the Core's power. As much as I love reading dystopians with overt themes, it was refreshing to read a dystopian that still offered socio-political commentary but through the lens of a young girl. Rather than being an analysis of something systemic and societal, Gambit is an exploration of the individual and her lived experiences.
The pleasure of Gambit is that Willow is a fantastic protagonist and heroine. Some months ago I talked a great deal about 'strong female characters' so I am pleased to say that Willow is not a shallow female character with cookie-cutter characteristics. Willow may be determined, good at heart, and able to fight (and with good reason!), but she is also vulnerable, hot-headed (and not superficially so), and sometimes naive. There are times where she toughs out the bad, but also times where longing for her family gets the best of her. She throws tantrums, she cries, she is defiant, and has moments of immaturity (though it is never annoying). Simply put, Willow is a complex, multifaceted teenage girl, and that fact is never lost in the narrative. Denault understands teenagers and her portrayal of Willow is consistent, realistic, and positively earnest.
There is, of course, the romance - an aspect of the novel in which I hold many thoughts and also reservations. The dynamic between Willow and the romantic interest is certainly complex with a volatile nature, which makes the story and its effects on Willow gripping and addictive. The relationship oscillates between affectionate and morally questionable. There are moments when he is manipulative and times where he is fighting for her trust - and yet, what keeps me from dismissing this altogether is that it is written with absolute self-awareness. Willow never permits the romantic interest's contentious behaviour, and in extension the actions itself are thus not glorified. On the contrary, she calls him out on it and continuously questions his character and agenda. (And the romantic interest is hiding something, a deep and terrible secret, and I need to know what it is.)
More so, their different births, upbringing and therefore worldviews create a palpable friction that is compelling and intense. Is Willow's attraction towards him naivete or infatuation? Whilst I cannot deny that there is an attraction between the two characters - though its nature is yet to be revealed, and I do find the relationship incredibly engaging - this was an element in the book that has kept me guessing throughout. After all, Willow is young, only sixteen years old. Gambit calls us to ask ourselves truly and honestly: how would our sixteen year old selves handle such a tumultuous journey ingrained with vicious political conflict of another world that is beyond our comprehension and understanding? (For most of us, probably not very well at all. And try as she might, that's the case for Willow too.)
Gambit is an excellent and solid start to, what I expect will be, a fantastic and exciting trilogy. There's mystery, political intrigue, and a great deal of hidden agendas - enough to satisfy and just enough to arouse your curiousity without being deceptively vague. With the story now in momentum, what we learn in Gambit is just the tip of the iceberg; I have a feeling that there is more to see and more to come. At its heart, Gambit took all the elements of young adult dystopia that I despise, and proved to me that it is very possible to have a well-written and thoughtful romance-dystopian. I was wrong. Denault, you have humbled me.
If there's one thing I'd like for you to take away from my review of Gambit, it is that I enjoyed it, a lot. Sometimes there are books that are meant to change your perspective, or maybe they are meant to awaken a consciousness of today's injustices. But sometimes, with books like Gambit, it is as pure and simple as being whisked away on a whirlwind, exciting adventure. Throughout my teenage years, I daydreamed about these incredible fantasy worlds with my own characters and stories - three years ago that imagination faded away, replaced by plans and fears for my future. Gambit, however, rekindled my imagination. I have started dreaming again.
On that note, GIMME BOOK TWO.
Rating: 4/5
-
Review can also be found on my book blog, Read, Think, Ponder!
June 9, 2022
I was so thrilled to find out I'd received an arc to read of this one. I've been on a bit of a fantasy binge read and after reading the synopsis to this one I just had to read it. It gave me a vibe from other books I'd read (red rising, maybe a smidge of game of thrones) but it's story was still unquie. World building was done finely, character development was great, and plotting was fast paced. I'll definitely check into more of this series.
May 12, 2015
Narrative-Told in the first-person POV of Willow Kent, GAMBIT’S narrative is completely immersive. I’m talking: from page one you’re pulled into Willow’s head in a graceful and easy-to-read style that shows us more than tells us, not only giving us the information we need to know about the world in a comprehensive fashion (no giant walls of text!), but giving us a taste of Willow’s voice that’s so clear that you can hear her accent in your ear while you read, and you can place her geographically before a worldly landmark is even stated.
Absolutely beautiful.
★★★★★
Plot-Willow Kent is a young girl living and working with her parents, who own a popular tavern in the Outlying Lands, practically making do with the scraps leftover from the Core (the city the elite inhabit). Those with extraordinary talents (telekinesis, etc) are prodigies, and they’re taken to the Core for any number of heinous futures, and those normal humans are left with little – the poor, like the Kent family. When news comes that an engagement between two of the most powerful families in the Core is off because the heiress to the Roanoke family turned out to be a fake, there’s fear and rumors of a war between the families; until Willow Kent is discovered to be the real heiress.
As the tagline says: let the games begin.
To put it simply: GAMBIT doesn’t disappoint. From the quiet life as a tavern maiden, to going through the “surge” and gaining her prodigal talents, the journey to the Core and, of course, the number of hoops Willow has to jump through once she gets there, the book is a roller-coaster ridden almost entirely in the dark. The futuristic world Denault built puts evolved technological comforts side-by-side with a lifestyle synonymous with the word “underdeveloped.” Everything boils down to the fact that anyone – friends and enemies, alike – will do anything it takes to get a sample of Willow’s DNA, since her two prodigal talents are some of the most powerful ever seen, and many people would jump at the chance to duplicate them.
Pair those plot aspects with the personal journey Willow takes: she’s forced to leave her home and her family. The pain she feels at leaving behind those she loves and the uncertainty and pretty much being on her own in a brave new world where she can’t trust anybody but herself, and is expected to marry a boy she’s never met in two years’ time when they’re both eighteen? It’s painful, and completely engaging.
There is one reason I’m taking a star off, however, and that’s because there’s so many attacks on Willow by rebel forces that they – and their outcomes – began to get predictable. It pains me a lot to do it, but I can’t overlook it.
However, don’t let that stop you: GAMBIT is intense, jaw-dropping, completely emotional, and it’ll have you sucked in beyond the very last page and hungry for more.
★★★★☆
Characters-Where to begin? Willow Kent is bold and rash and wears her heart on the sleeve while attempting to manipulate the people around her to get the outcomes or answers she wants. Then there Reece – the stony-faced and occasionally brutal commander assigned to collect her and keep her safe. I think what was done so beautifully with these two characters is that while Willow’s childish nature and unwillingness to take orders sometimes made my opinion of her decrease, Reece’s dedication to keeping her safe – even if it does mean cold-blooded killing – eventually made his gentler nature evident, which only made me love him more.
Both characters started out on complete opposite sides of the spectrum in regards to their personalities and level of approval for each other. Yet by the end of the book they met in the middle, eventually seeing each other eye-to-eye, but also balancing out their personalities so neither of them are acting to the extremes that we first met them in. Absolutely beautifully crafted crafted, with flaws that could potentially wind up being fatal. They drive the story even when the plot slows down, and I could not have asked for a better couple to spend nearly 400 pages with as they danced around each other the way they danced around the circumstances handed to them.
★★★★★
Final Answer: 4.66 / 5
Would I recommend this book? Hell yes. Perfect for fans of science-fiction, perfect for readers who love a romance done exactly right.
Absolutely beautiful.
★★★★★
Plot-Willow Kent is a young girl living and working with her parents, who own a popular tavern in the Outlying Lands, practically making do with the scraps leftover from the Core (the city the elite inhabit). Those with extraordinary talents (telekinesis, etc) are prodigies, and they’re taken to the Core for any number of heinous futures, and those normal humans are left with little – the poor, like the Kent family. When news comes that an engagement between two of the most powerful families in the Core is off because the heiress to the Roanoke family turned out to be a fake, there’s fear and rumors of a war between the families; until Willow Kent is discovered to be the real heiress.
As the tagline says: let the games begin.
To put it simply: GAMBIT doesn’t disappoint. From the quiet life as a tavern maiden, to going through the “surge” and gaining her prodigal talents, the journey to the Core and, of course, the number of hoops Willow has to jump through once she gets there, the book is a roller-coaster ridden almost entirely in the dark. The futuristic world Denault built puts evolved technological comforts side-by-side with a lifestyle synonymous with the word “underdeveloped.” Everything boils down to the fact that anyone – friends and enemies, alike – will do anything it takes to get a sample of Willow’s DNA, since her two prodigal talents are some of the most powerful ever seen, and many people would jump at the chance to duplicate them.
Pair those plot aspects with the personal journey Willow takes: she’s forced to leave her home and her family. The pain she feels at leaving behind those she loves and the uncertainty and pretty much being on her own in a brave new world where she can’t trust anybody but herself, and is expected to marry a boy she’s never met in two years’ time when they’re both eighteen? It’s painful, and completely engaging.
There is one reason I’m taking a star off, however, and that’s because there’s so many attacks on Willow by rebel forces that they – and their outcomes – began to get predictable. It pains me a lot to do it, but I can’t overlook it.
However, don’t let that stop you: GAMBIT is intense, jaw-dropping, completely emotional, and it’ll have you sucked in beyond the very last page and hungry for more.
★★★★☆
Characters-Where to begin? Willow Kent is bold and rash and wears her heart on the sleeve while attempting to manipulate the people around her to get the outcomes or answers she wants. Then there Reece – the stony-faced and occasionally brutal commander assigned to collect her and keep her safe. I think what was done so beautifully with these two characters is that while Willow’s childish nature and unwillingness to take orders sometimes made my opinion of her decrease, Reece’s dedication to keeping her safe – even if it does mean cold-blooded killing – eventually made his gentler nature evident, which only made me love him more.
Both characters started out on complete opposite sides of the spectrum in regards to their personalities and level of approval for each other. Yet by the end of the book they met in the middle, eventually seeing each other eye-to-eye, but also balancing out their personalities so neither of them are acting to the extremes that we first met them in. Absolutely beautifully crafted crafted, with flaws that could potentially wind up being fatal. They drive the story even when the plot slows down, and I could not have asked for a better couple to spend nearly 400 pages with as they danced around each other the way they danced around the circumstances handed to them.
★★★★★
Final Answer: 4.66 / 5
Would I recommend this book? Hell yes. Perfect for fans of science-fiction, perfect for readers who love a romance done exactly right.
January 24, 2016
Gambit just found its way into being my favourite book thus far this year. This is a fantastic read, filled with compelling characters, layered world building and a fascinating plot which, though partially developed, has left me gasping for more.
One of the greatest strengths of Gambit is C.L Denault's impeccable pacing. Development happens in a measured way, but not once was I bored or frustrated. Relationships were built (whether antagonistic or friendly - or in some cases a mixture of the two) with care and precision. This is particularly true of our two main characters - Willow and Reece.
The fact that Reece's behaviour is at times so incredibly problematic (he is at times both verbally and physically abusive to Willow) and yet I still absolutely love him as a character speaks volumes for Denault's skill as an author. His development is true craft, with each action building towards fleshing out an incredibly complex and layered individual. Reece is not a good guy. Nor is he a wholly bad one. In the realms of antiheroes, I would place him more to the dark side than the light. However the carefully scattered backstory, laced with a wide, very realistic emotional scale, leaves him one of the most fascinating, frustrating, romantic and entirely mesmerizing characters I've ever read.
Willow is a great heroine. She is sixteen, and has all the variances a sixteen year old has. However she is also strong willed, fragile, imperfect, stubborn, intelligent and extremely pragmatic. All this comes together to create one of the most likeable YA heroines I've ever come across. Her interactions with other characters are all tonally different, suggesting a richness of writing, and her development throughout the book is a pleasure to behold.
Other side characters, whether from Willow's home or the Core, are made to feel individual. Too often in other book groups of characters blend together, as they become more representative as their location in the Protagonist's history than as actual flesh and blood human beings. Denault doesn't fall into this trap, and each character felt distinct. I really liked Asp, Rush and Hart, with the Ritters gaining my interest more and more as they became more prominently featured throughout. I would be excited to learn more about Thess in the next novel - his appearance was brief but tantalizing.
The world building is minimal, with this being a debut, and I'm really looking forward to learning more about The Core and the Outlying Lands in future releases. Similarly the Rebels, introduced here as the main antagonists, have little flesh on their bones and I'm looking forward to learning more about their intentions and make up as the series progresses. Denault loves to leave breadcrumbs, sowing the seeds of various mysteries which I'm sure will be addressed later down the line.
From beginning to end, Gambit was a joy to read. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series, and will be keeping an eye out to snap it up the moment it's available.
One of the greatest strengths of Gambit is C.L Denault's impeccable pacing. Development happens in a measured way, but not once was I bored or frustrated. Relationships were built (whether antagonistic or friendly - or in some cases a mixture of the two) with care and precision. This is particularly true of our two main characters - Willow and Reece.
The fact that Reece's behaviour is at times so incredibly problematic (he is at times both verbally and physically abusive to Willow) and yet I still absolutely love him as a character speaks volumes for Denault's skill as an author. His development is true craft, with each action building towards fleshing out an incredibly complex and layered individual. Reece is not a good guy. Nor is he a wholly bad one. In the realms of antiheroes, I would place him more to the dark side than the light. However the carefully scattered backstory, laced with a wide, very realistic emotional scale, leaves him one of the most fascinating, frustrating, romantic and entirely mesmerizing characters I've ever read.
Willow is a great heroine. She is sixteen, and has all the variances a sixteen year old has. However she is also strong willed, fragile, imperfect, stubborn, intelligent and extremely pragmatic. All this comes together to create one of the most likeable YA heroines I've ever come across. Her interactions with other characters are all tonally different, suggesting a richness of writing, and her development throughout the book is a pleasure to behold.
Other side characters, whether from Willow's home or the Core, are made to feel individual. Too often in other book groups of characters blend together, as they become more representative as their location in the Protagonist's history than as actual flesh and blood human beings. Denault doesn't fall into this trap, and each character felt distinct. I really liked Asp, Rush and Hart, with the Ritters gaining my interest more and more as they became more prominently featured throughout. I would be excited to learn more about Thess in the next novel - his appearance was brief but tantalizing.
The world building is minimal, with this being a debut, and I'm really looking forward to learning more about The Core and the Outlying Lands in future releases. Similarly the Rebels, introduced here as the main antagonists, have little flesh on their bones and I'm looking forward to learning more about their intentions and make up as the series progresses. Denault loves to leave breadcrumbs, sowing the seeds of various mysteries which I'm sure will be addressed later down the line.
From beginning to end, Gambit was a joy to read. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series, and will be keeping an eye out to snap it up the moment it's available.
May 5, 2015
** I received an eARC of Gambit from REUTS Publications, in exchange for an honest review! **
Gambit is captivating from the start. With a whopping 500+ pages, I was glad to have a few extra days before my review was scheduled. Who knew that I wouldn't even need the extra days?!
I finished Gambit in over a span of 5 days. I'm honestly surprised I finished so quickly, but it was just that good. The characters were funny, sarcastic, and very interesting. The main character, Willow, is such a great mixture of innocence, strength, and compassion. I was so invested in the journey that was shared between Willow and Reece. I found myself laughing, crying, and inwardly groaning at times. I'm still not sure if I even like Reece all that much, but his character really fits the story.
Gambit is extremely unique in its plot, and so creatively written. (Also, I love the fact that C.L. Denault got the idea for Gambit while watching Alphas on Syfy! Read the full interview with the author on The Shadow Portal) The character growth is phenomenal, and the setting is quite different. My least favorite thing about Gambit, is the fact that I will have to wait for the sequel!
If you're a fan of the X-Men, The Hunger Games, Divergent, or anything similar - you have got to read GAMBIT!
Have a great day!
About the author, C.L. Denault:
C.L. Denault is a speculative fiction writer who loves dreaming up tales of adventure and intrigue. A former systems analyst, she gave up her nerdy code-writing skills to care for her family (including a son with special needs), and currently lives among the vast stretches of cornfields in Illinois.
Writing stories and posting on The INFJ Café are her biggest passions, along with drinking coffee and watching sci-fi. When she’s not hanging out with her husband and kids, she can usually be found at a library or tucked away in the shadowy corner of a hip coffeehouse. She’s also been glimpsed sneaking into her garage, late at night, to work on her time machine.
Her debut novel, Gambit, is the first in a Young Adult dystopian series.
Find out more at cldenault.com, twitter or facebook.
Gambit is captivating from the start. With a whopping 500+ pages, I was glad to have a few extra days before my review was scheduled. Who knew that I wouldn't even need the extra days?!
I finished Gambit in over a span of 5 days. I'm honestly surprised I finished so quickly, but it was just that good. The characters were funny, sarcastic, and very interesting. The main character, Willow, is such a great mixture of innocence, strength, and compassion. I was so invested in the journey that was shared between Willow and Reece. I found myself laughing, crying, and inwardly groaning at times. I'm still not sure if I even like Reece all that much, but his character really fits the story.
Gambit is extremely unique in its plot, and so creatively written. (Also, I love the fact that C.L. Denault got the idea for Gambit while watching Alphas on Syfy! Read the full interview with the author on The Shadow Portal) The character growth is phenomenal, and the setting is quite different. My least favorite thing about Gambit, is the fact that I will have to wait for the sequel!
If you're a fan of the X-Men, The Hunger Games, Divergent, or anything similar - you have got to read GAMBIT!
Have a great day!
About the author, C.L. Denault:
C.L. Denault is a speculative fiction writer who loves dreaming up tales of adventure and intrigue. A former systems analyst, she gave up her nerdy code-writing skills to care for her family (including a son with special needs), and currently lives among the vast stretches of cornfields in Illinois.
Writing stories and posting on The INFJ Café are her biggest passions, along with drinking coffee and watching sci-fi. When she’s not hanging out with her husband and kids, she can usually be found at a library or tucked away in the shadowy corner of a hip coffeehouse. She’s also been glimpsed sneaking into her garage, late at night, to work on her time machine.
Her debut novel, Gambit, is the first in a Young Adult dystopian series.
Find out more at cldenault.com, twitter or facebook.
August 4, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I have always liked the long lost princess storyline, and Gambit puts it to good use in this futuristic tale where having the right DNA can make you both valuable and a target. This is a well written and engaging book that drew me in from the start. I liked Willow as a narrator and a character because she came across as smart and independent. I particularly liked how devoted she was to her friends and family. This book follows her through a Buildungsroman arc where she is ripped from the life she knows and must struggle to find her new place in the world. I liked that she had a few false starts because that seemed realistic, and she does, over time, learn the lesson she needed most - if you are going to fight, you need to fight smart. Her constant defiance does start to wear on readers, though, so she might not be as appealing to some readers who don't have the patience for the constant challenging of authority. I struggled with the characters from The Core, the privileged few who live in the cities. They were a lot less emotional, so I couldn't always read them or their intentions. I think that was the point, but it made me feel hostile and suspicious of almost everyone in the second half of the book. Even Reece, the first Core character readers encounter, didn't quite feel sincere and I'm still not convinced he isn't going to turn on a Willow sometime in the future. I wasn't quite sure if I wanted the relationship between Willow and Reece to stop being contentious, and I think other readers will feel the same way - he really feels like he is working on an agenda I couldn't see, even at the end of the book. This is a long read- over 500 pages, and I have to say I felt the length. The story covers a lot of events in detail, and I felt like it dragged enough to be noticeable. That is the trade off for a lot of careful character development which I can appreciate, but there were times when I really wanted to fast forward through sickbed scenes, combat lessons, a detailed makeover, or some of the conversations. Overall, I think this is a book that lots of my high school readers can enjoy. The setting was something I had never seen before, and the addition of genetic alterations and the powers that come with them are interesting and fresh in this context. Readers who like dystopian settings or strong, defiant female protagonist will definitely want to give this book a shot. Language and situations are appropriate for high school readers.
August 6, 2015
This book is different, and that means a lot when it's a YA dystopian novel with a female protagonist. I haven't read any of these though (except for "The Testing"), so I won't compare any of the other dystopian novels with Gambit. Instead, I'll be reviewing it on its own terms.
The story of Gambit is told from the first person perspective of Willow. Willow seems like a village girl, but (of course) has some pretty cool powers that she discovers as the story progresses. I think the major strong point of this novel is that you can really identify with Willow. You don't get to know more than she does, and that's not a lot. I think this is a very daring approach for a speculative novel with an all-new world, but it works. Although you can recognize some things, there are so many questions in my head about the world Willow lives in. I hope C.L. Denault resolves these questions eventually, and in a good and believable way; otherwise I will feel cheated.
One other point I want to mention here is that a lot of the book is concerned with the relationship between Willow and Commander Reece, and this sometimes got me worked up a little, especially since all descriptions happen from the first-person perspective of Willow. I think they are well done, but it sometimes felt a bit awkward reading them.
I'm really looking forward to part two, and I will definitely read it.
The story of Gambit is told from the first person perspective of Willow. Willow seems like a village girl, but (of course) has some pretty cool powers that she discovers as the story progresses. I think the major strong point of this novel is that you can really identify with Willow. You don't get to know more than she does, and that's not a lot. I think this is a very daring approach for a speculative novel with an all-new world, but it works. Although you can recognize some things, there are so many questions in my head about the world Willow lives in. I hope C.L. Denault resolves these questions eventually, and in a good and believable way; otherwise I will feel cheated.
One other point I want to mention here is that a lot of the book is concerned with the relationship between Willow and Commander Reece, and this sometimes got me worked up a little, especially since all descriptions happen from the first-person perspective of Willow. I think they are well done, but it sometimes felt a bit awkward reading them.
I'm really looking forward to part two, and I will definitely read it.
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