“No one really wishes to be queen.”

Title: Three Dark Crowns

Series: Three Dark Crowns #1

Author: Kendare Blake

Published: September 20, 2016

Medium: Print (hardcover)

Pages: 398

Genre: Fantasy

Rating:

Summary: Three triplet queens are born every generation on the island of Fennbirn. They are separated by “gift,” or special power (Elemental, Naturalist, or Poisoner) and sent to live in the communities that share their specific gift so that they can learn and become stronger. When they come of age, they will be expected to fight to the death so that only the strongest remains to rule and birth the next set of triplets. 

Thoughts: I had tried listening to the audiobook for this several months ago and I couldn’t get passed the first two chapters, but a friend suggested I try reading it instead and lent me the book. I was surprised that I loved it! Many other reviewers thought that the love-interest parts were too heavily focused on, but I disagree. Only one of the love interests was super focused on, and that became very important for the end of the book. The other love interest that was frequently shown was a focus, yes, but less so than overall survival. This book was excellent though, and left off on a bit of a cliffhanger with several surprises/twists. I already have my hands on the second book!