Poisoned Blade

Reviews

"Fast-paced, tense, and riveting. I couldn't put it down, and you won't be able to either!"—Tamora Pierce, author of the Tortall series and the Circle of Magic series "Stellar description and pacing. [Elliott's] eye for detail is extraordinary, and descriptions of court life are very evocative."—Teenreads "A high fantasy novel that explores race, class, and gender struggles in a patriarchal society.... Jessamy is loyal and strong female protagonist who fights against injustice. This trilogy opener will be a hit with readers who love action-packed fantasy adventures."—School Library Journal "An imaginative journey.... Elliott creates an intricate and intriguing story, conjuring a world of mysticism and centuries-old customs. Jessamy's boldness and impulsiveness make her a striking heroine in a male-dominated land."—Publishers Weekly "Kate Elliott's magic and mastery is better than ever. Court of Fives enchanted me from start to finish, with characters and worlds that lingered long after I turned the final page."—Marie Lu, New York Times bestselling author of the Legend series and the Young Elites series "Anyone who things Young Adult fiction can't successfully handle themes like a culture's endurance in defiance of colonialism, the myriad socio-economic factors leading toward revolution, or racial and/or gender inequality, needs to read these books."—Fantasy Literature "Kate Elliott adds to her fantastical Court of Fives series with Poisoned Blade, and fans won't be disappointed."—Bustle "The main character is the classic 'strong female warrior' archetype...and will remind most people of Katniss Everdeen.... The book deals with issues of family loyalty, standing up for one's beliefs, and self-discovery.... A solid addition to a high school collection."—Voya "Full of high-stakes adventure but also heartfelt musings on identity, family and colonization, this book presents a fantasy world that is refreshingly inspired by Greco-Roman and Egyptian cultures."—NPR "Jes makes for a worthy heroine, as bold and daring as she is endearing. One of the best things about this series is that the characters--heroes and baddies alike--are vividly real, their motives and emotions often fierce but always recognizable."—Booklist * "Jes will remind readers of fearless Katniss with her skill and strategy for games. But it's the fascinating descriptions of traditions, royal interactions, and, of course, the intensities of the Fives that will enthrall readers most of all. Let the games continue!"—Booklist, starred review Praise for Court of Fives:

A New York Times Bestseller

An Andre Norton Award Nominee

An NPR Best Book of 2015

—Kirkus Reviews "Haunting. Epic. Impassioned. Layered. Breathtaking. This isn't just a novel; it is a coup d'état of the soul. Prepare to be ravished by Kate Elliott's Court of Fives."—Ann Aguirre, New York Times bestselling author of the Razorland trilogy "A gripping, original plot; vivid, complicated characters; and layered, convincingly detailed worldbuilding. A compelling look at racial and social identity wrapped in a page-turning adventure."—Kirkus Review Expand reviews