The Gilded Cage

"Our scars define us. They tell a story of courage and survival. They tell of who we are at our deepest being, of the challenges we've faced and overcome."

What it's about: Kiva has escaped Zalindov Prison, but now she feels like a prisoner of a different sort, staying in the palace with the shockingly (to her mind) royal family and being treated well while her siblings entreat her to spy and sabotage in the name of the rebellion. Kiva agonises over her sworn goal of reclaiming the throne for her family and her growing feelings for Jaren and his family.

“Never forget that every scar is beautiful and you should never be ashamed of them.”

What I thought:

• This book has a similar pace to The Prison Healer, gaining momentum as it twists and turns throughout.
• I adore Caldon, he is such a good friend to Kiva, even though she doesn't really see or appreciate it.
• I spent a lot of this book desperately wanting to read on to find out what happens next whilst simultaneously afraid to keep reading in dread of Kiva hurting or betraying Jaren.
• Expecting lots of twists and reveals I was suspicious of the motives of every character introduced.