What do you think?
Rate this book
The Royal Games:
Once in a generation, the young women of the Unified Territories of Palias are given the opportunity of a lifetime:
The chance to become a princess.
It’s an honor Kaia Luvaryan has no interest in competing for. In the aftermath of the Great War, huge swaths of what was once the United States of America are uninhabitable. Every day is a struggle to survive.
But Kaia doesn’t want to leave her family or her best friend Finn behind—not even for a chance at winning Crown Prince Dominic’s hand in marriage. Life in her home territory of Hilora is hard, but at least it’s hers.
Her life. Her choice.
Until, suddenly, it’s not anymore.
Branded a criminal and sentenced to a punishment that amounts to death, Kaia is given only one way out.
She must compete in the Royal Games… as a spy for the Queen of Palias herself.
Perfect for fans of The Selection and The Hunger Games. Dive into this story of intrigue, danger, romance, and deception!
The chance to become a princess.
It’s an honor Kaia Luvaryan has no interest in competing for. In the aftermath of the Great War, huge swaths of what was once the United States of America are uninhabitable. Every day is a struggle to survive.
But Kaia doesn’t want to leave her family or her best friend Finn behind—not even for a chance at winning Crown Prince Dominic’s hand in marriage. Life in her home territory of Hilora is hard, but at least it’s hers.
Her life. Her choice.
Until, suddenly, it’s not anymore.
Branded a criminal and sentenced to a punishment that amounts to death, Kaia is given only one way out.
She must compete in the Royal Games… as a spy for the Queen of Palias herself.
Perfect for fans of The Selection and The Hunger Games. Dive into this story of intrigue, danger, romance, and deception!
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2021
273 people are currently reading
1427 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 6, 2022
I hate Finn.
January 30, 2022
Waiting for book 2!
I found my self nor being able to put this book down while at same time wanting to delay the end, as book two is not available yet.
Although the story takes sometime to really kick-off it is worth as it builds this story world and characters. I am sad there were so many deaths, not entirely sold that they were necessary, but I cant want to see what happens in book two, what secrets are revealed, to get to know the prince and see his relationship with Kaya flourish (I do hope it happens!).
I found my self nor being able to put this book down while at same time wanting to delay the end, as book two is not available yet.
Although the story takes sometime to really kick-off it is worth as it builds this story world and characters. I am sad there were so many deaths, not entirely sold that they were necessary, but I cant want to see what happens in book two, what secrets are revealed, to get to know the prince and see his relationship with Kaya flourish (I do hope it happens!).
February 26, 2023
Okay so I thought this would be a higher rating considering I read it so fast but it wasn’t…
I don’t understand why she is still going for Finn and not even going for the Prince like what was the point of this book? Also the fact they made her friends die just so she could win is a little umm disappointing..
I don’t understand why she is still going for Finn and not even going for the Prince like what was the point of this book? Also the fact they made her friends die just so she could win is a little umm disappointing..
July 15, 2022
In the future, the city of Hilora is ruled by the royal family. The story starts off with our heroine working a job catching rats at a bakery. She wishes she could work as a baker herself but she can’t due to not being authorized to work a government job. Living arrangements aren’t the best. Pre-war buildings (as they are called) are turned into apartment housing. While some people live in these others have to live in plywood boxes on the sidewalk. The city is overcrowded.
My family is luckier than most. We have a two-bedroom apartment from the pre-war days, passed down through five generations.
The story is based in the post-war United States. Life as we know it changed dramatically. Point in case, dogs are no longer man’s best friend and they hunt dogs for meat. I about cried at that. The people don’t leave the city after decades. The war changed much.
It seems that once people were eliminated from the landscape, nature began to thrive again.
While trying to help her family, Kaia is caught. But the Queen makes a deal with her. If she enters the games and becomes a spy, the Queen would help out Kaia’s family. Kaia takes the offer. She has nothing left to lose. She is doing all this for her family.
I expected to see a worn-out face, a tired look in my blue-green eyes. I didn’t know I would look so determined, though. Almost hard. A warrior who can face the world head-on without flinching.
It was a slow start. But it definitely picked up. What sucks the most is that the second book isn’t out yet. I figured it would end where it ended but I didn’t expect how that ending was to come about.
I also got a strong Hunger Game vibes in certain areas. I hope the second book comes out soon. Along with however many books after that. This may be a trilogy. That’s how most of these kinds of series seem to go. I do hope that the second book will come out soon.
My family is luckier than most. We have a two-bedroom apartment from the pre-war days, passed down through five generations.
The story is based in the post-war United States. Life as we know it changed dramatically. Point in case, dogs are no longer man’s best friend and they hunt dogs for meat. I about cried at that. The people don’t leave the city after decades. The war changed much.
It seems that once people were eliminated from the landscape, nature began to thrive again.
While trying to help her family, Kaia is caught. But the Queen makes a deal with her. If she enters the games and becomes a spy, the Queen would help out Kaia’s family. Kaia takes the offer. She has nothing left to lose. She is doing all this for her family.
I expected to see a worn-out face, a tired look in my blue-green eyes. I didn’t know I would look so determined, though. Almost hard. A warrior who can face the world head-on without flinching.
It was a slow start. But it definitely picked up. What sucks the most is that the second book isn’t out yet. I figured it would end where it ended but I didn’t expect how that ending was to come about.
I also got a strong Hunger Game vibes in certain areas. I hope the second book comes out soon. Along with however many books after that. This may be a trilogy. That’s how most of these kinds of series seem to go. I do hope that the second book will come out soon.
June 28, 2023
Dnf at 53% it started off good but then it was just her feelings again and again took to long to actually talk about the competitions🤷♀️
July 30, 2022
Hunger Games meets The Selection
Hunger Games meest The Selection is the description that caught my attention. I was a little skeptical when starting this book. However, I love both dystopian and YA so there was no way I was going to pass this book up. Jamie Sanders, however, did not disappoint and I believe this was a good merging of both books, with a little Maze Runner sprinkled in as well.
Sanders sets the scene well when introducing our heroine Kaia and the war ravaged world she lives in. We smoothly follow Kaia on her journey through loving and taking care of her family to competing in "The Royal Games". Along the way we meet new friends and old foes. Sanders definitely kept me turning the pages.
The only faults I personally had with the book was some parts were blatantly obvious to the reader. While it would have been nice to have been thrown a curve ball, it didn't hamper the story any.
My only other problem with this book is that while I was aware this was the first in a series, I didn't even look to see that it was the ONLY published book in the series. After finishing this book I was ready to read the next and continue Kaia's journey. I will definitely be buying the next in this series.
Hunger Games meest The Selection is the description that caught my attention. I was a little skeptical when starting this book. However, I love both dystopian and YA so there was no way I was going to pass this book up. Jamie Sanders, however, did not disappoint and I believe this was a good merging of both books, with a little Maze Runner sprinkled in as well.
Sanders sets the scene well when introducing our heroine Kaia and the war ravaged world she lives in. We smoothly follow Kaia on her journey through loving and taking care of her family to competing in "The Royal Games". Along the way we meet new friends and old foes. Sanders definitely kept me turning the pages.
The only faults I personally had with the book was some parts were blatantly obvious to the reader. While it would have been nice to have been thrown a curve ball, it didn't hamper the story any.
My only other problem with this book is that while I was aware this was the first in a series, I didn't even look to see that it was the ONLY published book in the series. After finishing this book I was ready to read the next and continue Kaia's journey. I will definitely be buying the next in this series.
October 16, 2021
It was a good book
The writing was a bit juvenile but it was an ok read. I will read the second book but I hope the story matures a little. I hope the focus is more on the relationship with the prince if possible instead of the traumatic games.
The writing was a bit juvenile but it was an ok read. I will read the second book but I hope the story matures a little. I hope the focus is more on the relationship with the prince if possible instead of the traumatic games.
March 17, 2025
I was enjoying this book a lot, until I got to the last few pages and went to purchase the second book in the series and realized there wasn't one... for a book written in 2021.
I guess I'll have to make up my own ending.
I guess I'll have to make up my own ending.
June 10, 2025
This book is good but where is the sequel? 😭😭😭 The book came out years ago, with the ending claiming book two was "coming soon". You can't leave us on that cliffhanger!!
September 12, 2021
Captivating tale of one girl’s trials and adventure.
This book was similar in nature to series like the Princess Trials and the Selection, a rags to riches tale of a poor yet scrappy girl competing to become a Princess. Heroine Kaia was likeable and her dystopian world vividly described. I would have liked to have seen more of the Prince concerned in all this but it was a solid and strong start. My greatest regret is finding this series when more books are not released yet as it’s going to be hard to wait for the sequel!
This book was similar in nature to series like the Princess Trials and the Selection, a rags to riches tale of a poor yet scrappy girl competing to become a Princess. Heroine Kaia was likeable and her dystopian world vividly described. I would have liked to have seen more of the Prince concerned in all this but it was a solid and strong start. My greatest regret is finding this series when more books are not released yet as it’s going to be hard to wait for the sequel!
January 25, 2026
Sitting with my heart sore and in tears after the ending to Royal Games. If you love cattiness of “The Bachelor” and you enjoyed reading “The Trial of the Sun Queen” and “The Princess Trials” series, this one is for you. But this book is about so much more than just a competition for a chance to marry a prince of a country in a dystopian universe.
The book takes place in a country called the United States of Palias, in a post war era, where the country has suffered great damage to its society, resources and landscape. As a result, the country is split up into separate areas dedicated to different sectors. Our heroine, Kaia, lives in the sector centred around foresting, called Hilora - where people survive by eating wild dog meat and living in abandoned office buildings, including Finn, her best friend, who lives with his family in a cramped office room. After her dad gets attacked by a wild dog while working in the forest, Kaia tries to steal medication from a clinic to save his life (the clinic services seem to be available only to the “rich” Hilorans). However, she gets caught and with this being her 10th strike, she is arrested and awaits deportation to a work camp and certain death.
Prior to being shipped out, the Queen clandestinely meets with Kaia and offers her a deal - in exchange for her record to be wiped clean and for assistance with her family’s financial and medical needs, Kaia needs to enter the regional Royal Games. The Queen guarantees that Kaia will win the regional games and move onto the National Royals Games, where she will compete with the winners of the other 10 respective regional games, for the chance to marry Prince Dominic, the heir to the throne. Why does the Queen so desperately want Kaia to make it to the Palace? Well the Queen is also a Hiloran who won the Royal Games 20 years prior and married the King. But their marriage is far from perfect and she suspects forces within the Palace are trying to sabotage her and her position. She admits that the government has been spying on the citizens of Palias through big screens set up in city centres (which they use to broadcast propaganda to keep the starving masses from rioting) and that through this, she has followed Kaia and decided that she would make the best spy to insert into the Palace and uncover any hidden plots against the Queen.
Wanting to protect and save her family, Kaia agrees and is thrown into a competition with 29 other Hiloran girls between 16 and 18 years old.
Honestly, the book is not a love story centred around the Prince (although that may be the focus of the sequel). It actually weaves a moving story about oppression, poverty, familial love and the power of female friendships, told through the eyes of a girl who had to grow up too fast in order to survive.
If you’ve ever felt a bit trapped by your circumstances and are looking for a quick easy read, this book will resonate with you.
Although published in 2021, no sequel has been released since. Hopefully we will get a sequel soon, as this book has set us up for banger sequel filled with romance, intrigue, secrets and cattiness, all while making us ask ourselves “How far will you go to save your family?”.
The book takes place in a country called the United States of Palias, in a post war era, where the country has suffered great damage to its society, resources and landscape. As a result, the country is split up into separate areas dedicated to different sectors. Our heroine, Kaia, lives in the sector centred around foresting, called Hilora - where people survive by eating wild dog meat and living in abandoned office buildings, including Finn, her best friend, who lives with his family in a cramped office room. After her dad gets attacked by a wild dog while working in the forest, Kaia tries to steal medication from a clinic to save his life (the clinic services seem to be available only to the “rich” Hilorans). However, she gets caught and with this being her 10th strike, she is arrested and awaits deportation to a work camp and certain death.
Prior to being shipped out, the Queen clandestinely meets with Kaia and offers her a deal - in exchange for her record to be wiped clean and for assistance with her family’s financial and medical needs, Kaia needs to enter the regional Royal Games. The Queen guarantees that Kaia will win the regional games and move onto the National Royals Games, where she will compete with the winners of the other 10 respective regional games, for the chance to marry Prince Dominic, the heir to the throne. Why does the Queen so desperately want Kaia to make it to the Palace? Well the Queen is also a Hiloran who won the Royal Games 20 years prior and married the King. But their marriage is far from perfect and she suspects forces within the Palace are trying to sabotage her and her position. She admits that the government has been spying on the citizens of Palias through big screens set up in city centres (which they use to broadcast propaganda to keep the starving masses from rioting) and that through this, she has followed Kaia and decided that she would make the best spy to insert into the Palace and uncover any hidden plots against the Queen.
Wanting to protect and save her family, Kaia agrees and is thrown into a competition with 29 other Hiloran girls between 16 and 18 years old.
Honestly, the book is not a love story centred around the Prince (although that may be the focus of the sequel). It actually weaves a moving story about oppression, poverty, familial love and the power of female friendships, told through the eyes of a girl who had to grow up too fast in order to survive.
If you’ve ever felt a bit trapped by your circumstances and are looking for a quick easy read, this book will resonate with you.
Although published in 2021, no sequel has been released since. Hopefully we will get a sequel soon, as this book has set us up for banger sequel filled with romance, intrigue, secrets and cattiness, all while making us ask ourselves “How far will you go to save your family?”.
November 12, 2022
This story is about a girl named Kaia who resides in a town called Hilora. Every twenty years or so, the Royal Games takes place where thirty girls in each territory have the chance to compete to go to the Capitol for the Royal Games. Set in a dystopian society, the story follows Kaia as she struggles to provide for her family and finds herself in a precarious situation with the law. The Queen offers her a deal she can't refuse, but quickly finds it begins to cost her everything. But is it worth it?
I was excited to read this because it seemed similar enough to Hunger Games/ The Selection Series / The Princess Trials Series. However, I was sorely disappointed. The story seemed like it should have been stretched out too much more than 250 pages. It felt rushed and hard to follow. There were many scenes which could have gone on for chapters and contained way more details. It felt rushed and thrown together in effort to create a good novel. There were parts of it where I found myself really involved. I did not feel as though the character was as strong as the author tried to make her seem. There just wasn't much there.
For the heavy emphasis this book put on romance, I felt there was a huge lack in that department. Oh sure, her best friend is her love interest -- didn't see that coming (sarcasm). But, the thing is, she never liked him back. Yet, the book hints that there may be feelings, but the character consistently denies them. She claims she has a profoundly hard time choosing between her best friend and supposed love interest, the prince, but it didn't seem too difficult. Oh, and there was a total of two scenes with the Prince, yet somehow she was almost lamenting at the thought of not being with him. I find it hard to describe this as a romance novel when there was hardly any romantic interest.
Additionally, I found spelling and grammatical errors throughout the book. The brother's name appeared as "Taren" for a vast majority of the book, but then would appear as "Taran" in certain parts. This is just a small example among many different errors.
I found it hard to believe that I could be so lost at what the author was trying to say and essentially correcting errors I saw as I read. The whole thing felt rushed/thrown together. Which is sad because I am a really big fan of this storyline/trope of novel.
I feel like giving it two stars is relatively generous of me. I mostly gave it two stars because there were certain points which I became fixated to read. I am not itching to read the second book, but if it comes across my recommended reads, I will try it out. It was a hard one to get through for such a short page length.
I was excited to read this because it seemed similar enough to Hunger Games/ The Selection Series / The Princess Trials Series. However, I was sorely disappointed. The story seemed like it should have been stretched out too much more than 250 pages. It felt rushed and hard to follow. There were many scenes which could have gone on for chapters and contained way more details. It felt rushed and thrown together in effort to create a good novel. There were parts of it where I found myself really involved. I did not feel as though the character was as strong as the author tried to make her seem. There just wasn't much there.
For the heavy emphasis this book put on romance, I felt there was a huge lack in that department. Oh sure, her best friend is her love interest -- didn't see that coming (sarcasm). But, the thing is, she never liked him back. Yet, the book hints that there may be feelings, but the character consistently denies them. She claims she has a profoundly hard time choosing between her best friend and supposed love interest, the prince, but it didn't seem too difficult. Oh, and there was a total of two scenes with the Prince, yet somehow she was almost lamenting at the thought of not being with him. I find it hard to describe this as a romance novel when there was hardly any romantic interest.
Additionally, I found spelling and grammatical errors throughout the book. The brother's name appeared as "Taren" for a vast majority of the book, but then would appear as "Taran" in certain parts. This is just a small example among many different errors.
I found it hard to believe that I could be so lost at what the author was trying to say and essentially correcting errors I saw as I read. The whole thing felt rushed/thrown together. Which is sad because I am a really big fan of this storyline/trope of novel.
I feel like giving it two stars is relatively generous of me. I mostly gave it two stars because there were certain points which I became fixated to read. I am not itching to read the second book, but if it comes across my recommended reads, I will try it out. It was a hard one to get through for such a short page length.
October 21, 2022
>Book Review –The Royal Games
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 1st in the Game of Crowns and Lies series and ends with a cliffhanger. This story takes place in a dystopian, post-apocalyptic world. Kaia and Finn are BFF’s, struggling to survive in horrid conditions. The Guardians are the royal police whose reign of terror punish the people for just trying to survive. Kaia gets caught by the Guardians and is given a choice of being sent to the Barrens, where everyone dies, or participate in the Royal Games in order to find a Princess for the Prince. These set of games are like the semi-finals, with one girl from each area going to the Royal Capital to compete for the Prince’s hand.
>Finn loves Kaia and finally lets her know. She was oblivious and has really hurt Finn by participating. The challenges are really fun to read about. There are mean girls and nice girls that work with and against Kaia. When Kaia meets the Prince, she doesn’t want to like him, but does. I felt the story needed Kaia to see Dominic with some of the other girls and feel some jealousy. She would be even more confused by her feelings for Finn.
>This book is appropriate for a young adult (16+) audience. I am giving this book 4 stars. There is a mystery as to who is helping Kaia and some romantic tension with the Prince. How Kaia truly feels about Finn is also up in the air. I really enjoyed this story. It is the first competition for royalty story that I can mention in the same breath as The Selection.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 1st in the Game of Crowns and Lies series and ends with a cliffhanger. This story takes place in a dystopian, post-apocalyptic world. Kaia and Finn are BFF’s, struggling to survive in horrid conditions. The Guardians are the royal police whose reign of terror punish the people for just trying to survive. Kaia gets caught by the Guardians and is given a choice of being sent to the Barrens, where everyone dies, or participate in the Royal Games in order to find a Princess for the Prince. These set of games are like the semi-finals, with one girl from each area going to the Royal Capital to compete for the Prince’s hand.
>Finn loves Kaia and finally lets her know. She was oblivious and has really hurt Finn by participating. The challenges are really fun to read about. There are mean girls and nice girls that work with and against Kaia. When Kaia meets the Prince, she doesn’t want to like him, but does. I felt the story needed Kaia to see Dominic with some of the other girls and feel some jealousy. She would be even more confused by her feelings for Finn.
>This book is appropriate for a young adult (16+) audience. I am giving this book 4 stars. There is a mystery as to who is helping Kaia and some romantic tension with the Prince. How Kaia truly feels about Finn is also up in the air. I really enjoyed this story. It is the first competition for royalty story that I can mention in the same breath as The Selection.
October 15, 2021
Well that was a good book!! I couldn’t put it down, and I absolutely loved Kaia.
This book has big Selection feels to it. Is the whole Bachelor style theme a trope yet? Because it really should be. I can’t get enough of it!
Kaia is from a poor city. Never did she think she would end up competing in the Royal Games. And they seem to be a little bit more intense than just games.
Now let’s talk romance. It definitely feels a bit love triangley to me. Kaia has a best friend, Finn, back home who has professed his love for her before she leaves for the Games. And of course the Prince! Both of which have her so confused. I really don’t know who she will choose, and I’m excited to find out! But I really wish there was more romance to this book. The Prince only comes to see the girls a handful of times. I wanted more! And I’m fairly certain now that the next phase of the trials will be at the Palace, we are going to see Kaia get much much more confused about her feelings. And the games are about to get very intense.
All in all, if you enjoyed reading The Selection, The Princess Trials, even Divergent. I’m pretty sure you’ll like this one. ;)
I don’t yet see a release date for book 2, but I do hope it’s soon. I’m excited to see where the story goes!
Content: clean
Romance: kissing
Violence: mild violence.
Language: none.
This book has big Selection feels to it. Is the whole Bachelor style theme a trope yet? Because it really should be. I can’t get enough of it!
Kaia is from a poor city. Never did she think she would end up competing in the Royal Games. And they seem to be a little bit more intense than just games.
Now let’s talk romance. It definitely feels a bit love triangley to me. Kaia has a best friend, Finn, back home who has professed his love for her before she leaves for the Games. And of course the Prince! Both of which have her so confused. I really don’t know who she will choose, and I’m excited to find out! But I really wish there was more romance to this book. The Prince only comes to see the girls a handful of times. I wanted more! And I’m fairly certain now that the next phase of the trials will be at the Palace, we are going to see Kaia get much much more confused about her feelings. And the games are about to get very intense.
All in all, if you enjoyed reading The Selection, The Princess Trials, even Divergent. I’m pretty sure you’ll like this one. ;)
I don’t yet see a release date for book 2, but I do hope it’s soon. I’m excited to see where the story goes!
Content: clean
Romance: kissing
Violence: mild violence.
Language: none.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2024
Not a romance. The writing is definitely nothing special. Quick and easy read but I probably won’t read book 2 if that ever actually happens.
I don’t know but the female friendships seem so stereotypical? Like large group of girls, has to be an evil one with no redeeming qualities of depth. She has to have a clique of idiots around her. The main character seems to hate women until she meets the two girls she becomes friends with. Again with the stereotype of the out of place girl and the two friends she makes.
There could’ve been a really nice story of friendship and a warm, exciting romance between a poor girl and a prince with a side of epic games.
Instead the games were barely touched on and they were not an obstacle for Kaia because she already knew how to beat them.
Of course the love interest is her only friend, only MALE friend. The other is the Prince who is not interesting at all and is only in two scenes. They seem obsessed with each other instantly but she still gets with Finn later???
I don’t know but the female friendships seem so stereotypical? Like large group of girls, has to be an evil one with no redeeming qualities of depth. She has to have a clique of idiots around her. The main character seems to hate women until she meets the two girls she becomes friends with. Again with the stereotype of the out of place girl and the two friends she makes.
There could’ve been a really nice story of friendship and a warm, exciting romance between a poor girl and a prince with a side of epic games.
Instead the games were barely touched on and they were not an obstacle for Kaia because she already knew how to beat them.
Of course the love interest is her only friend, only MALE friend. The other is the Prince who is not interesting at all and is only in two scenes. They seem obsessed with each other instantly but she still gets with Finn later???
November 19, 2024
The Royal Games wasn’t what I expected!
The story follows Kaia, a teenage girl born into a poor family in a war-torn country struggling to rebuild. Desperation drives her to make difficult choices, and she ultimately pays the price.
From the description, I was ready for a mix of The Selection and The Hunger Games. While the premise does share some similarities with both, it’s hard to match the standard set by those iconic series. The beginning was quite slow, and I found the writing vague at times, lacking the emotional pull needed to keep me eagerly turning the pages.
That said, the overall storyline and the world-building were intriguing. The setting, in particular, stood out—capturing the harsh realities of a society recovering from war while adding a layer of suspense to Kaia’s journey.
If you’ve already enjoyed favorites like The Selection or The Hunger Games and are looking for something with a similar premise, The Royal Games might be worth a try. Just be prepared for a slower start and a writing style that may not grip you right away.
The story follows Kaia, a teenage girl born into a poor family in a war-torn country struggling to rebuild. Desperation drives her to make difficult choices, and she ultimately pays the price.
From the description, I was ready for a mix of The Selection and The Hunger Games. While the premise does share some similarities with both, it’s hard to match the standard set by those iconic series. The beginning was quite slow, and I found the writing vague at times, lacking the emotional pull needed to keep me eagerly turning the pages.
That said, the overall storyline and the world-building were intriguing. The setting, in particular, stood out—capturing the harsh realities of a society recovering from war while adding a layer of suspense to Kaia’s journey.
If you’ve already enjoyed favorites like The Selection or The Hunger Games and are looking for something with a similar premise, The Royal Games might be worth a try. Just be prepared for a slower start and a writing style that may not grip you right away.
February 11, 2025
Would give 2.5 stars if I could, but it wasn’t enough to bump to 3. I was really excited for this one since it was pitched as The Hunger Games meets The Selection, but honestly, it didn’t live up to that at all. It was a super quick read, which was nice, but it left a lot to be desired.
The biggest issue? The writing. There were so many grammatical errors that it felt like no one even bothered to edit or proofread it. It was pretty distracting and made the whole thing feel rushed. The characters didn’t help either—they were pretty surface-level, and I never really felt connected to any of them. The world-building had potential, but it never went deep enough to make it feel real.
I doubt there will be a follow up book, but I would’ve read it and maybe we could see some improvement in the writing. Overall, it wasn’t the worst book ever, but it definitely could’ve been better. If you’re looking for something quick and don’t mind a lack of polish, it might be worth a shot, but don’t expect anything on the level of The Hunger Games or The Selection.
The biggest issue? The writing. There were so many grammatical errors that it felt like no one even bothered to edit or proofread it. It was pretty distracting and made the whole thing feel rushed. The characters didn’t help either—they were pretty surface-level, and I never really felt connected to any of them. The world-building had potential, but it never went deep enough to make it feel real.
I doubt there will be a follow up book, but I would’ve read it and maybe we could see some improvement in the writing. Overall, it wasn’t the worst book ever, but it definitely could’ve been better. If you’re looking for something quick and don’t mind a lack of polish, it might be worth a shot, but don’t expect anything on the level of The Hunger Games or The Selection.
June 14, 2023
A good book. Vibes of Hunger Games, The Selection, and The Princess Trials. It was sort of like all of them were combined into this one book. I'm eager to see how the story plays out.
I liked Kaia, though at times I admit she was a little too trusting of others. I don't like Finn as a partner for her. There's something about him that makes me feel like he will only want her if she needs him (to take care of her, protect her, feed her). It felt more like a controlling pity kind of relationship to me. Though I'm not sure what to think of Dominic (another book I know has a Prince Dominic and he's...a piece of work, so that might be coloring my vision here). We didn't see enough of him to get a real grasp for his character yet.
I liked Kaia, though at times I admit she was a little too trusting of others. I don't like Finn as a partner for her. There's something about him that makes me feel like he will only want her if she needs him (to take care of her, protect her, feed her). It felt more like a controlling pity kind of relationship to me. Though I'm not sure what to think of Dominic (another book I know has a Prince Dominic and he's...a piece of work, so that might be coloring my vision here). We didn't see enough of him to get a real grasp for his character yet.
March 29, 2024
A Romance?
This was a fun read with a good lead character but a romance it was not. Yes, there were boy and flirting and butterflies and feelings and even kissing. BUT the romance was flat. The interactions with the prince had no cute meeting, no interesting or challenging dialogue exchanged, no spark, seriously no reason why either character should be interested in even a future conversation. Even the best friend thread was forced. She was totally not interested until suddenly, while depressed, she is for a moment. I loved the rest of the story but ultimately I’m not interested in more because I don’t care who she ends up with.
This was a fun read with a good lead character but a romance it was not. Yes, there were boy and flirting and butterflies and feelings and even kissing. BUT the romance was flat. The interactions with the prince had no cute meeting, no interesting or challenging dialogue exchanged, no spark, seriously no reason why either character should be interested in even a future conversation. Even the best friend thread was forced. She was totally not interested until suddenly, while depressed, she is for a moment. I loved the rest of the story but ultimately I’m not interested in more because I don’t care who she ends up with.
December 28, 2024
Rated PG
Great book. I loved the world. It made sense and wasn't overly complicated.
I loved that our young FMC wasn't a total brat with a chip on her shoulder. She had a chip but didn't let it run her life and every decision. She swallowed her pride and did what she needed to do. She saw different possibilities instead of shooting herself in the foot just because of her chip.
I was intrigued from the beginning to the end and am looking forward to the next book.
*This book is rated PG. There is no spice or swearing. There is one mild kiss. There is violence throughout the book, but it isn't detailed or gory.
Great book. I loved the world. It made sense and wasn't overly complicated.
I loved that our young FMC wasn't a total brat with a chip on her shoulder. She had a chip but didn't let it run her life and every decision. She swallowed her pride and did what she needed to do. She saw different possibilities instead of shooting herself in the foot just because of her chip.
I was intrigued from the beginning to the end and am looking forward to the next book.
*This book is rated PG. There is no spice or swearing. There is one mild kiss. There is violence throughout the book, but it isn't detailed or gory.
February 1, 2022
Not a must read, but here if you want it
As SO many others this follows the same typical plot. If you liked the Princess Trials you’ll enjoy this well enough. If you liked The Red Queen, you’ll like this well enough. Just don’t compare them.
A lot of this was over written. So it’s easy to skim past a lot of repetitive sections.
One great thing that made it stand out from others in this niche genre - it didn’t focus on romance! I really liked the good solidarity friendship focus this took on. And of course I will be reading book two.
As SO many others this follows the same typical plot. If you liked the Princess Trials you’ll enjoy this well enough. If you liked The Red Queen, you’ll like this well enough. Just don’t compare them.
A lot of this was over written. So it’s easy to skim past a lot of repetitive sections.
One great thing that made it stand out from others in this niche genre - it didn’t focus on romance! I really liked the good solidarity friendship focus this took on. And of course I will be reading book two.
May 31, 2023
2⭐️ because:
1. Juvenile writing and unnecessary deaths making Kaia the winner. She was already going to win (rigged by the Queen) so why kill her friends in a stupid explosion?
2. Curiosity about the ending of the story and hope of better writing was enough for me to read the next book. But there isn’t a single shred of any info about book 2 anywhere. Obviously, there won’t be one. What a waste of time reading this one. Who writes a book that ends with the actual words “Book two is coming soon!” and then doesn’t write the book?
1. Juvenile writing and unnecessary deaths making Kaia the winner. She was already going to win (rigged by the Queen) so why kill her friends in a stupid explosion?
2. Curiosity about the ending of the story and hope of better writing was enough for me to read the next book. But there isn’t a single shred of any info about book 2 anywhere. Obviously, there won’t be one. What a waste of time reading this one. Who writes a book that ends with the actual words “Book two is coming soon!” and then doesn’t write the book?
July 10, 2022
Loved it. The whole princess pageant thing has been done- but I love the twist the author gave it. I enjoy the dynamics between the prince and the protagonist. The best friend is not my favorite character but I understand where he is coming from. Don’t want to spoil anything- I definitely enjoyed this and am looking forward to book two. I am hoping for more character development and hopefully introduction to a villain that you also feel sorry for, but love to hate. Lol.
August 5, 2022
Ok so I really enjoyed this story and definitely look forward to book 2, hopefully soon! I would have loved more development with the romance with Finn or Dominic. Their parts in book one are really limited and when Kaia kisses Finn I feel like there wasn’t any buildup and then they all of a sudden kiss. It was kinda misplaced but again, not enough to ruin my anticipation and hopes for more from the fellas to add to Kaia’s story in the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2022
Need book 2 released ASAP. I don't think I've ever felt a love like I do towards this book. Couldn't sleep couldn't eat bc I was too busy reading this masterpiece. I eat up this dystopian trope 100%. SO I NEED A SECOND BOOK TO SURVIVE. Anywho cancel Finn and we Stan Dominic. To the author- I love you and you can have my first born child if I can get like 3 more books of this series before the end on the year 🫶🏼🫶🏼
July 12, 2025
what the HELL WAS THAT ENDING!?! like im sorry but all of the girls just BLEW UP in a land mine💀 i feel awful but i lowkey laughed when that happened because of course kaia just had to win somehow😭 kinda pick me main character behavior. but honestly this book was really interesting and it definitely gave the selection x hunger games vibes! i’m sad we didn’t see too much of dominic. and sorry to say but i don’t like finn lol. anyways where is that second book??? i NEED it rn.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2021
Fast Reading
Okay so it's not exactly an original idea, but it's still a very good book. I grew to like Kaia and the author developed the other characters so the reader feels exactly how they should towards them. I would have liked to have been able to peek behind the curtain more on Dominic, but will hopefully happen in the next book. I am committed to this series.
Okay so it's not exactly an original idea, but it's still a very good book. I grew to like Kaia and the author developed the other characters so the reader feels exactly how they should towards them. I would have liked to have been able to peek behind the curtain more on Dominic, but will hopefully happen in the next book. I am committed to this series.
September 18, 2021
Very young read
Not bad for a short book. Glad I was able to read it off of kindle unlimited. I have read many books like this and this one attracts a way younger crowd. Not a bad book but no second book coming out any time soon, which is a huge bummer.
Not bad for a short book. Glad I was able to read it off of kindle unlimited. I have read many books like this and this one attracts a way younger crowd. Not a bad book but no second book coming out any time soon, which is a huge bummer.
November 13, 2021
Page turner…
This book compelled me to keep reading. When I thought I had it all figured out how it would end, Sanders took the story down an unexpected path. I’m looking forward to the next installment…
This book compelled me to keep reading. When I thought I had it all figured out how it would end, Sanders took the story down an unexpected path. I’m looking forward to the next installment…
January 9, 2022
Very good book. I definitely enjoyed reading this character. Usually I prefer a little bit more romance but this helped me learn to get my priorities right! I liked the main character a lot. I was definitely able to feel the emotions.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews