An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

This book was brutal. This is the kind of book where no character felt safe and at times the violence was a little much for me. But this kind of violence should disturb you. Every chapter these characters were taking risks as Elias fought for his freedom and Laia fought to save her brother. These characters were so intense and each challenge they faced increased the stakes, making this book a fast read. I'm so eager to see where these characters go, how they survive, if they survive, and who they will be if they do. This book has been described as The Hunger Games meets The Winner's Curse and I think that's an excellent description. If you loved either of those books then make sure to read An Ember in the Ashes!