(This review was first published on my blog.)

This is a good read, and although I wasn't totally hooked in the early parts of the book, the climax and the ending did it for me!

The writing
The writing was okay for me, although, it did feel like a hit or miss. Sometimes, it was great and gripping, but sometimes I am indifferent about it.

I have to say though, I love how the author told the story in an alternating past and present perspectives. I love how in every past memory, there are secrets to be discovered, and every little detail in these memories just added up into the climax.

The characters
The characters were okay as well, however, I wasn't too invested in them. I liked Evie enough and I was suspicious of Annemette ever since the beginning. Nik is great as well, and I love his and Evie's friendship and chemistry! Iker, on the other hand, is quite interesting in a way that he has the usual playboy characteristics yet he is incredibly protective and loyal.

The plot
The plot was okay. I wasn't hooked with the earlier parts of the story though. It just seemed a little silly, specifically the parts where they're to make the prince fall in love (but maybe that's just because I'm not too fond of romance-centered plots like this haha!).

The climax and the ending is what I enjoyed the most. By the time I was reading the climax, I was gripping the book so close to my face with no care in the world. I wanted to know the truth, I wanted to know more about the antagonist's plans, the main characters' reactions, everything. I'm also oddly satisfied with the ending. It's definitely not the usual happy ending, but I quite liked it.

Overall, I enjoyed this retelling and I'm definitely open for more in the future!