The Impostor Queen

Sixteen-year-old Elli was only a child when the Elders of Kupari chose her to succeed the Valtia, the queen who wields infinitely powerful ice and fire magic in service of her people. The only life Elli has known has been in the temple, surrounded by luxury, tutored by magic-wielding priests, preparing for the day when the queen perishes—and the ice and fire find a new home in Elli, who is prophesied to be the most powerful Valtia to ever rule.

But when the queen dies defending the kingdom from invading warriors, the magic doesn’t enter Elli. It’s nowhere to be found.

Disgraced, Elli flees to the outlands, home of banished criminals—some who would love to see the temple burn with all its priests inside. As she finds her footing in this new world, Elli uncovers devastating new information about the Kupari magic, those who wield it, and the prophecy that foretold her destiny. Torn between her love for her people and her growing loyalty to the banished, Elli struggles to understand the true role she was meant to play. But as war looms, she must choose the right side before the kingdom and its magic are completely destroyed.

Borrowed this book from the library and so glad I did. It started out a bit slow, but picked up quickly. By the middle of the book I was hooked and finished it in two sittings including an entire afternoon to finish it.

The characters are very easy to like and become attached to. More then once I found myself crying for them. There were also a number of times where I laughed out loud and had to attempt to explain why to my husband.

This story is magical and really pulls you in. The plot line keeps you guessing what is going to happen but it isn't so fast paced that you get left behind. While the book does end on a bit of a cliff hanger, enough to make you want to read the next book. It wasn't so big that it was a non ending (you know how I hate those!)

Book two is reserved at my local library already.