Kirkus
Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

A deadly game takes place on an island that only appears once every 100 years. Isla Crown has trained for the Centennial ever since she was a child. When the island of Lightlark emerges from the storm that hides it and becomes accessible again after a century of isolation, a competition takes place wherein the rulers of this world’s six realms fight to undo the curses placed upon their people. The cost? One of them must die. Isla is leader of the Wildlings, a people gifted in nature-based abilities but cursed to eat human hearts and kill those they love. Once the game begins, Isla is quickly consumed by interrealm politics, life-threatening stakes, and a flirtatious rival. She’ll have to keep dangerous secrets close, however, if she wants to survive and free the Wildings from their suffering. This YA debut is deeply reminiscent of the era in young adult speculative fiction that produced the Hunger Games and Divergent series—for better and worse. Some readers will delight in the familiar beats and tropes, while others might find it all a little too predictable. Grim, one of Isla’s love interests, is a total scene-stealer, often making other characters seem flat by comparison; their steamy scenes are a definite highlight. Characters in this world are varied in physical appearance. Follows a formula many have loved and will continue to enjoy. (Fantasy. 13-18) Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

Publishers Weekly
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Every century, the island of Lightlark emerges from the tempest cloaking it to host the Centennial, a 100-day competition between the rulers of six cursed realms, in this beguiling series opener from Aster (the Emblem Island series). To break the curse, one ruler must die during the contest, thus also destroying their realm. In 500 years, none of the immensely powerful participants has ever volunteered their life, nor has anyone been bested, but now that the curses have rendered their lands irreparable, this Centennial is sure to end in bloodshed. The situation terrifies teenage Wildling realm ruler Isla Crown, who, unlike her predecessors, was born without the Wildlings’ innate ability to control or wield nature, making her vulnerable to the other participants’ powers. While relying on her wits and training to survive, Isla must hide her secret lest she become an obvious target. Though the novel’s mythology is murky and its supporting cast lacks depth, Isla’s courage, determination, and compassion invest readers in her plight, imparting tension and drive. The story hits many well-loved and familiar beats, and sumptuously detailed feints, twists, and betrayal lend vibrancy and intrigue. Characters have varying skin tones. Ages 13–up. Agent: Katelyn Detweiler, Jill Grinberg Literary Mgmt. (Aug.)