Raybearer

This book follows the story of Tarisai, a young girl who was raised in isolation by an absent mother named The Lady. The Lady sends her to the capital to join the competition to be chosen to be part of the Crown Prince's Chosen Eleven. Tarisai is drawn to these children, looking for a closeness she's never had. But The Lady has other ideas, including a magical wish she made that compels Tarisai to kill the Crown Prince.

This book was really fun. The story is fresh and interesting, and the theme of chosen family is strong and beautiful. The reader gets to watch as Tarisai and her family all grow up together, learning about their roles as future leaders of this country. As a character, Tarisai is flawed and relatable, having to learn lessons the hard way. There were multiple twists and turns that I didn't see coming, and the antagonists were all real people with complex backstories. I would recommend this book to people that enjoy YA fantasy, and I will be picking up the second when it comes out.