Initial Impressions 2/1/16: Oh what a PERFECT ending. I mean that scene alone, but really the whole finale of this book and series was absolutely perfect. 
 I will admit that my start with these series was just a tad bit... well, rocky isn't the word but it was a slow start in the beginning of THE WINNER'S CURSE. I was totally swept away by the ending though and the series really just grew exponentially from there! THE WINNER'S KISS is easily my favorite book of the three and really shows how much this series grew. 
 I'm not usually the kind of person who notices stylistic things or literary devices (I'm just a simple reader, no English major here) but it was evident how beautifully and carefully Marie Rutkoski crafted this book. I loved the alternating between Arin and Kestrel's POVs not only from chapter to chapter but within them. The pacing was absolutely perfect throughout, really kept me hooked, and the book really just flowed flawlessly from start to finish. I also noted how several sensory elements really added to the overall feel of the book. From the way leaves tumbled from branches to the sound of a thunderstorm to the brush of fingertips, every sense was really invoked to create and overall atmosphere that really brings a reader wholly into the book. I could really picture everything that was going on and to appeal to so many senses brought the book to life even more. 
 Readers of this series are aware by now of the constant ache that is the relationship of Kestrel and Arin. While I won't give any plot or details away, I will say that I loved how this relationship continued to make me ache for the two of them but it also brings and incredibly satisfying resolution after tension for three whole books. 
 As I said, the ending was absolute perfection and left me with such a warm feeling towards all of these characters and this entire series. 
 Oh, and Roshar is my favorite forever. 
 Thanks to Macmillan and Fierce Reads for the chance to read this book early! 
 Full review as originally posted HERE on The Book Addict's Guide 2/22/16: THE WINNER'S KISS was simply outstanding. I've been anticipating the finale to this series ever since I read THE WINNER'S CRIME (five months before it came out... That only added to my wait!) and I can say that I was completely satisfied and overjoyed with how this series concluded. Everything came together brilliantly and Marie Rutkoski really gives readers a book with a bang to finish off this trilogy! 
 This series is possibly best-known for the level of angst and tension in the most gut-wrenching way. THE WINNER'S CRIME was full of "almost"s and "could have been"s and it was excruciating in the best possible way. My heart has ached for these characters and I've been dying for them to finally get together and just be happy! While I won't give away details of what happens in THE WINNER'S KISS, I will say that I loved the consistency of the trilogy, maintaining that ache and pull until the very end. There are several things that Arin and Kestrel still need to overcome if they want to be together and THE WINNER'S KISS throws even more obstacles in their way (if you can believe it)! Every situation and scene is really so well done and Marie Rutkoski does a great job of maintaining conflict but still giving her readers that inkling of hope that things will work out for these two in the end. 
 I feel like Marie's writing has grown exponentially throughout the series! I've found each book beautifully worded but it was something that I specifically noticed in THE WINNER'S KISS. Every scene appeals to multiple senses and really draws the reader right into this world. I could picture each setting, imagine the smells, and draw upon character's feelings. The structure of everything came together just perfectly and I was so impressed with how lovely this book was to read! 
 I also loved the alternating POVs from Kestrel to Arin not only from chapter to chapter but within each chapter as well. It was great to be able to see the appropriate action when it was needed and not wait for the next chapter to catch up on the next character's POV. This was especially noticeable during the battle scenes (YES, war! You knew it was coming) and it really kept the action moving forward! 
 The romance is, of course, amazing. Arin and Kestrel are a fantastic couple with an incredible bond and a whole lot of things to overcome. It was great to see their dedication to each other and each character has such quiet strength, especially when things get rough. There are moments of rage, passion, fear, and comfort and every single scene between the two of them was just amazing. I always love a good "forbidden love" story and this was perfectly crafted in every way. Both characters are incredibly strong and smart but each have their own strengths. I love the two of them and THE WINNER'S KISS was such a satisfying conclusion for Arin and Kestrel. 
 I also have to note how much I love the secondary characters in this series! Roshar became an absolute favorite and I just adored his friendship with Arin as well as his role throughout the rest of this series. He becomes a really crucial part of this book and really enhanced every scene that he was in. The other secondary characters really came to life as well and were a great supporting cast to Arin and Kestrel. It's always wonderful to see such well-developed minor characters and how they enhance a story. 
 I've loved watching the characters grow over the series and Marie Rutkoski's writing has only gotten more beautiful along the way as well. It's so rewarding to really see a series blossom and grow and The Winner's Trilogy only got better with each book. THE WINNER'S KISS was my favorite of the series and I can't imagine anyone being disappointed by this conclusion. It was positively stunning, epic, and satisfying.