The Midnight Lie by Marie Rutkoski

The Midnight Lie by Marie RutkoskiWhere Nirrim lives, crime abounds, a harsh tribunal rules, and societys pleasures are reserved for the High Kith. Life in the Ward is grim and punishing. People of her low status are forbidden from sampling sweets or wearing colors. You either follow the rules, or pay a tithe and suffer the consequences. Nirrim keeps her head down and a dangerous secret close to her chest. But then she encounters Sid, a rakish traveler from far away who whispers

there's only one thing left for me to do

serves as caretaker to the mischievous godlings who roam her banks

he invokes an ancient law that requires the High Council of Regents to convene at the Northern Keep and grant him an audience

the man known as The Wall of Winnipeg couldn't find it in him to tell her good morning or congratulate her on her birthday

difference is fatal

why does she seem so real

full of rich observations and striking clarity

and within the Royal Palace

and the Legendborn secret society

gets traded to the Beavers

She is labeled an Iron Widow

I want simple