This book was an ARC prize, but I'll disclaim all bias right now. Look at my reviews. I can be relentless. 
 This book... 
 This is the kind of book that is bad for you, because it will make you want to hermit away. It's that addictive. Questions are baited and answered at such a pace that it becomes like crack. I brought it to an appointment with me so I could read in the waiting room. I was thirty min early and when the doctor showed up I was actually tempted to ask for ten more just to keep going. 
 Not good for social life or health. 
 But it's worth it. I regret nothing. 
 The writing is just so, so clever, right from the start. A complete battle of wits. I personally believe that characters can only be as smart as the author, so -in this case- I'm convinced C.S. Pacat is flawlessly brilliant. 
 Speaking of characters; this cast was a treat observe. You can't help but love them, even when they are so badly misbehaved. I couldn't wait to see what they'd do next. The tension between them was so rich. The world and the people living in it were brought to life so vividly that politics were actually fun. Sometimes authors can get carried away with details, but not once did it feel overwhelming. Never excessive or unnecessary. It all has its place. 
 Normally I hate endings that leave things unfinished. Not this time. Just take my money - I don't care. 
 I need more. Now.