The Crown's Game

Vika and Nikolai are both in possession of magic. They are training to be the Imperial Enchanter of Russia. But what they don't know is that only one of them will survive the Crown's Game. Via is being raised in secret by her father. She is lively and confident and can create the most amazing magic. Her heart is loving and light. She is certain she will be able to help Russia. When she finds out she must battle another Enchanter, she is determined to win so she can be reunited with her father. Nikolai has been raised in the city. He is best friends with the future Tzar of Russia, Pasha. No one knows he is an Enchanter except his mentor. He is also determined to win the game an live. After a chance encounter with Vika, Nikolai is not so sure he wants to win if it means her death. But he doesn't want to die. What to do? As the game begins, the two Enchanters create the most amazing magic and in the process feel the pull they have towards each other. Pasha feels a pull towards Vika too. As the game nears it's end, Pasha feels betrayed by both of them and does something rash. He will be the cause of the death of one of his friends, but which one? Who will make the ultimate sacrifice for love? What other lies have the two of them been told? And who's magic will prevail? I loved this sweet and interesting book. The characters are lovable and complex, the setting is different and interesting and the conflict is seemingly unresolvable. I only hope this is not the end of their story or I think I have to be really sad. I'm going to pretend that this isn't the end so I can go on with my day. Happy reading my friends!