I meant to post this full review a long time ago, so with the final book in the trilogy right around the corner, here it finally is! 
 Right from the very first page of THE WINNER'S CURSE, I was hooked! The world-building, the characters, the story, and writing were all absolutely wonderful, and I loved every single moment! I loved the chemistry between the main characters, Arin and Kestrel! I loved it all so much and I thought it was amazing! 
 I loved Kestrel right away, and as soon as Arin was introduced, I was completely intrigued. They're extremely strong characters, and they complement one another perfectly. I loved that they were both willing to fight for what they believe in and they never stopped trying to protect their loved ones. I also loved the chemistry between Arin and Kestrel! I won't lie, I love it when books have a romantic element, so I thoroughly enjoyed the romance in The Winner's Curse, but I also really loved that the romance fit so well into the narrative. It provides a dimension to both Arin's and Kestrel's character, and as they grow closer, they open up and we learn so much more about both of them. 
 Along with the fantastic characters, the world-building is superb! I loved learning more about Kestrel and Arin's world, and the dynamics between the different countries was extremely interesting. While on the surface, the story might seem to focus on the forbidden romance between Arin and Kestrel, it's so much bigger than that. It encompasses a growing rebellion, political tensions, family legacies, and the difficulty in choosing your own path in life. 
 Overall, I LOVED The Winner's Curse. I loved the story, the world-building, the chemistry between the characters[?]absolutely EVERYTHING! If you like fantasy books with historical elements and some good ol' forbidden romance then you will LOVE this trilogy!