I received free copy from Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. 
 The best part of The Crown's Game is the unusual setting for YA book, alternative Imperial Russia. There are very few fantasy books set in Russia and I loved this book more for it. In The Crown's Game two enchanters, Nikolai and Vika are battling out in the competition to the death which will decide who will be the next Royal Enchanter. I loved the combination of magic, fantasy and historical setting. 
 The three main characters, Vika, Nikolai and Pasha are likable, interesting and their relationship is complex and full of tension. Three of them are inexplicably tied together with threads of magic, love, friendship and kinship. In different circumstances they all could be very close, but their reality prevents this from happening. Although Pasha and Nikolai are best friends, Pasha is the heir to the throne and Nikolai is a commoner. Their relationship also becomes strained because Nikolai is keeping his magical ability secret from Pasha. Vika and Nikolai are the only two enchanters in Russia and because of that feel strong kinship and attraction to each other but have to fight against each other in the game of magical domination. Pasha is caught between his developing feelings for Vika and loyalty to his best friend, Nikolai. 
 The Crown's Game is not predictable and has very interesting twists and revelations toward the end which I don't want to spoil. Also kudos to the author for keeping descriptions of Russian culture and food quite authentic and using accurate names and language for the most part.