The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson

There are excursions through enemy territories, dangerous forest, and treks across ancient and fabled ruins rumored to be touched by the gods.

Through Lia's travels, some willingly some not, we come across royal and not so royal soldiers, assassins, princes, barbarians, spies, and even vagabond gypsies. I was impressed and surprised by the rich and varied details in the world building as well as many unique secondary characters that slowly became apparent as the story progressed. Rich world-building and unique characters.

There's political intrigue between the Kingdoms as well a mystery that seems to connect them beyond alliances and war that I found completely fascinating. In this first book, readers are introduce to the three main Kingdoms of The Remnant, including the Kingdom of Morrighan, where Princess Lia begins the story as the First Daughter, who rebels against her arranged marriage, her betrothed's Kingdom of Dalbreck, and the mysterious Kingdom of Venda, home to the supposedly ruthless and uneducated barbarians, well known to be enemies to both Kingdoms of Morrighan and Dalbreck. Political Intrigue and Exciting Kingdoms. Throughout the story there's beautiful excerpts taken from sacred text and traditional songs, giving readers a hint of the magic behind Lia's heritage as an First Daughters to the Morrighan and gives us clues about the mysterious Vendan. Pearson's world of The Remnant Chronicles is rich in traditions and folklore, but subtle enough not to overwhelm with too heavy of details. What I loved about The Kiss of Deception: A unique world with fascinating settings and wonderful writing makes this book not only appealing to both adult and young adult readers, but very hard to put down. I fell into this story captivated and enthralled until the last page turned. One of self-discovery, love and magic as well as sacrifice and responsibility. This is a heroine's journey, one filled with light and dark moments. One who defies tradition only to realize she cannot run from her responsibility. Set in a unique fantasy world that's rich in traditions, The Kiss of Deception boast a smart and strong-willed heroine. Pearson is the first book in her new young adult fantasy series, The Remnant Chronicles.

The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson