Marie Rutkoski is an author known for her works in the young adult fantasy genre. She has written a number of books that often explore themes of power, politics, and the complexities of human relationships.
Marie Rutkoski Books in Order
- The Winner’s Curse (The Winner’s Trilogy, #1)
- The Winner’s Crime (The Winner’s Trilogy, #2)
- The Winner’s Kiss (The Winner’s Trilogy, #3)
- The Midnight Lie (Forgotten Gods, #1)
- Real Easy
- The Cabinet of Wonders (The Kronos Chronicles, #1)
- The Shadow Society (The Shadow Society #1)
- Bridge of Snow (The Winner’s Trilogy, #0.5)
- The Hollow Heart (Forgotten Gods, #2)
- The Celestial Globe (The Kronos Chronicles, #2)
Synopsis of Marie Rutkoski Books in Order
The Winner’s Curse (The Winner’s Trilogy, #1)
“The Winner’s Curse” by Marie Rutkoski is the first book in a young adult fantasy trilogy. The story follows a seventeen-year-old girl named Kestrel who is the daughter of a powerful general in the Valorian empire. Despite her position, Kestrel does not wish to follow in her father’s military footsteps and seeks a different path for her future. One day, she attends a slave auction and impulsively buys a young male slave named Arin, setting off a chain of events that will change both of their lives forever.
As Kestrel and Arin’s relationship develops, they find themselves caught in a dangerous web of politics, power, and rebellion. Kestrel must navigate the treacherous world of court intrigue while grappling with her growing feelings for Arin. Meanwhile, Arin harbors his own secrets and agendas, leading to a high-stakes game of deception and betrayal. The novel explores themes of privilege, freedom, and the consequences of individual choices within a complex and morally grey society.
Overall, “The Winner’s Curse” is a captivating and immersive read that combines political intrigue, romance, and adventure within a richly imagined fantasy world. The book has been praised for its strong character development, intricate plot, and thought-provoking exploration of power dynamics and the consequences of one’s decisions. With its engaging narrative and compelling characters, the novel offers a compelling start to a series that will leave readers eager for more.
The Winner’s Crime (The Winner’s Trilogy, #2)
“The Winner’s Crime” is the second installment in Marie Rutkoski’s “The Winner’s Trilogy.” The story continues to follow the young noblewoman, Kestrel, as she navigates the political intrigue, betrayal, and war in the kingdom of Valoria. In this installment, she grapples with the repercussions of her choices and the sacrifices she has made to protect her loved ones.
The book delves into Kestrel’s complex relationships with the people around her, including her conflicted feelings for Arin, a former slave who now leads a rebellion against Valoria. As Kestrel becomes entangled in the dangerous political games of the royal court, she must make difficult decisions that could have far-reaching consequences for herself and those she cares about.
Through compelling storytelling and rich world-building, Rutkoski explores themes of power, loyalty, and sacrifice. The book is filled with suspense, emotional turmoil, and gripping plot twists that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its intricate and multi-layered narrative, “The Winner’s Crime” is a captivating and thought-provoking addition to the series.
The Winner’s Kiss (The Winner’s Trilogy, #3)
“The Winner’s Kiss” is the third book in the “Winner’s Trilogy” by Marie Rutkoski. The story follows Kestrel, a skilled strategist and the daughter of a powerful general, as she navigates the dangerous political landscape of an empire at war. She is also torn between her love for Arin, a Herrani rebel, and her loyalty to her own people. As the stakes grow higher and the war intensifies, Kestrel and Arin must find a way to bridge the gap between their two worlds and bring peace to the empire.
In this thrilling conclusion to the trilogy, Kestrel and Arin must confront their own inner demons and make difficult choices as they fight for peace and freedom. The book is filled with political intrigue, intense battles, and a powerful love story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Rutkoski’s writing is compelling and evocative, drawing readers into the vividly imagined world of the Winner’s Trilogy and keeping them engaged until the very end.
“The Winner’s Kiss” is a masterful conclusion to a captivating trilogy, blending elements of fantasy, romance, and political drama to create a rich and compelling story. Rutkoski brings her characters to life with depth and complexity, and her vivid prose brings the world of the Winner’s Trilogy to vivid life. Fans of the series will be satisfied with the conclusion, which ties up loose ends while leaving room for hope and new beginnings.
The Midnight Lie (Forgotten Gods, #1)
“The Midnight Lie” by Marie Rutkoski is a fantasy novel set in a world where the rich and powerful possess magic, while the lower classes serve them. The story follows Nirrim, a young woman living in the impoverished Ward, who has the ability to sense the truths of others. Despite being bound by the strict rules of her society, Nirrim finds herself drawn to Sid, a traveler from the wealthier Uptown. As their forbidden romance blossoms, Nirrim begins to uncover the dark secrets of her world and is forced to question everything she has ever known.
The novel explores themes of power, privilege, and the consequences of seeking truth in a society built on lies. Rutkoski weaves a complex and immersive world, full of political intrigue and magic, as Nirrim navigates her way through a society that seeks to control and oppress her. As she delves deeper into the mysteries of her world, Nirrim discovers the strength and resilience within herself, and must make difficult choices that will shape the future of her world.
With its lush prose and compelling characters, “The Midnight Lie” is a captivating and thought-provoking tale that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Forgotten Gods series.
Real Easy
Real Easy is a contemporary romance novel by Marie Rutkoski that follows the story of two young adults, Sam and Tate, who meet under unusual circumstances and are drawn to each other despite their differences. The novel explores themes of love, trust, and the complications that arise in relationships, as Sam and Tate navigate their own personal struggles and insecurities while trying to build a meaningful connection with each other.
The story unfolds in a small town where Sam and Tate both reside, and they find themselves thrown together through a series of unexpected events. As they spend more time together, they begin to realize that they have more in common than they originally thought, and they develop a strong bond that challenges their preconceived notions about love and relationships. The novel delves into their individual journeys as they learn to open up to each other and confront their fears, ultimately finding solace and comfort in each other’s company.
Real Easy is a heartfelt and touching story that captures the complexities of human relationships and the universal desire for love and companionship. Marie Rutkoski skillfully portrays the emotional nuances of her characters and creates a compelling narrative that resonates with readers. The novel offers a refreshing take on contemporary romance and provides a rich and engaging exploration of the human experience.
The Cabinet of Wonders (The Kronos Chronicles, #1)
“The Cabinet of Wonders” follows the story of a young girl named Petra Kronos, who lives in Prague during the 16th century. When her father, a talented clockmaker, is commissioned to create a mysterious and magnificent automaton for the Prince of Bohemia, Petra’s life takes a dangerous turn. After a tragic turn of events, Petra must take matters into her own hands and embark on a perilous journey to save her father and uncover the truth behind the enigmatic automaton. Along the way, she encounters magical creatures and allies who help her on her quest.
With its rich historical setting, magical elements, and strong-willed protagonist, “The Cabinet of Wonders” is a thrilling and enchanting tale that captures the imagination. The book explores themes of friendship, bravery, and the power of creativity. As Petra navigates through a world filled with danger and intrigue, she learns to harness her own inner strength and resourcefulness while facing formidable adversaries.
Marie Rutkoski’s storytelling prowess shines in “The Cabinet of Wonders,” as she weaves together a captivating narrative filled with suspense, adventure, and unexpected plot twists. Readers of all ages will be drawn into Petra’s captivating world and will eagerly anticipate the next installment of the Kronos Chronicles.
The Shadow Society (The Shadow Society #1)
“The Shadow Society” by Marie Rutkoski follows the story of Darcy Jones, a high school student who discovers that she belongs to a hidden society of people with unique abilities. Darcy has always felt like an outsider, but when she learns about her true identity as a “Talent,” she is thrust into a world of danger and intrigue. As Darcy navigates the complexities of this new society, she also grapples with the turmoil of her own emotions, including a growing attraction towards a fellow Talent named Conn.
As Darcy delves deeper into the Shadow Society, she uncovers dark secrets and dangerous enemies that threaten her newfound community. Along the way, she must confront her own fears and vulnerabilities while also learning to harness her own unique powers. With the help of Conn and other allies, Darcy must navigate the treacherous terrain of the Shadow Society and ultimately decide where her loyalties lie.
Marie Rutkoski crafts a compelling and suspenseful narrative filled with twists and turns as Darcy discovers her hidden heritage and struggles to find her place in a society plagued by deception and conflict. “The Shadow Society” is a gripping tale of self-discovery, friendship, and the fight for survival in a world where nothing is as it seems.
Bridge of Snow (The Winner’s Trilogy, #0.5)
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The Hollow Heart (Forgotten Gods, #2)
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The Celestial Globe (The Kronos Chronicles, #2)
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About Marie Rutkoski
Marie Rutkoski is a celebrated author, best known for her New York Times bestselling books aimed at children and young adults, such as THE HOLLOW HEART (published on September 14, 2021). She recently made her debut into adult fiction with REAL EASY (released on January 18, 2022), a gripping psychological thriller. Originally from Illinois, Marie earned degrees from both the University of Iowa and Harvard University. She brings her expertise to the classroom as a professor at Brooklyn College, where she currently resides with her family.
Marie Rutkoski’s books, including “The Winner’s Trilogy” and “The Shadow Society”, offer readers a thrilling and thought-provoking journey through her meticulously crafted worlds. Through her dynamic and morally complex characters, Rutkoski weaves in powerful ideological lessons about the nature of power, love, and betrayal. Her stories skillfully examine the consequences of ambition, the complexities of truth and lies, and the thin line between heroism and villainy, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of the human condition and the choices we make.
FAQs about author Marie Rutkoski
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