Synopsis 
 The daughter of a Patron Captain and a Commoner mother, Jessamy must act like the perfect upper class Patron lady to not bring further shame to her family. But she craves to run The Fives, a race that tests athletic ability with different terrains and obstacles. While her father is away at war, Jessamy sneaks out to train. She finally raises enough money to enter the Fives, but her father's unexpected return makes escaping to run even more difficult. Then a scheming lord tears her family apart and Jes' life is turned upside down. She is forced to trust a new friend, Kalliarkos, but the relationship between a girl of mixed race and a Patron boy turns heads and she risks the vengeance of Lord Gargaron in her quest to save her family. 
 Thoughts 
 I read this entire book and didn't realize that it was inspired by the March sisters. A fantasy inspired by a book that had such a huge influence on my life and also deals with race relations and privilege? No wonder I loved this book so much! This is a fantastic addition to the YA fantasy world. The Little Women references are very subtle as Kate Elliott weaves her high fantasy world. The world-building is masterfully done and the social hierarchy, which will have some people twitching with fury, is at the head of much of the conflict. A complex story with a diverse cast of characters. 
 (view spoiler)[One thing I did not like was how easily Jes found trustworthy people. I kept waiting for something to happen, but there was no twist in people's loyalties. At least not yet. We'll see what book two brings. (hide spoiler)] 
 Thanks for Little, Brown for the ARC. 
 Publication Date: August 18, 2015