Thank you to Penguin Teen for sending me an early copy of this book! All opinions are my own!

Oh my goodness, where do I even start with this book?? It was everything I didn't know I needed and so much more. The glittering world that will both dazzle and frighten in the same breath. The fairytale-esque nature of this book in both its world and its eldritch creatures/curses, not to mention its lessons and virtues. The characters that made me want to scream and cry and throw up with how much I loved them and how scared they made me.

This book was perfectly paced, artfully crafted, and so wonderfully executed that I honestly cannot think of anything I disliked about it. It left me hanging onto every single word, and at the end, I was turning the end pages looking for more. This is the beginning of such a beautiful world full of wonderful and (maybe a little too) relatable characters. Their development is so well crafted that you barely notice the directions you are being pointed in, just like the characters themselves.

I cannot wait to see where this series goes, I just know that it will end up being spectacular!

This book follows the story of Nora and Lotte, two cousins who are pitted against each other for control of a magic ax and their family's legacy which created a bubble of safety for humanity amongst a wild, magical wood. Unfortunately, over the generations, their family has been corrupted by power and oppresses those who rely on their magic bubble to survive. Nora is raised as the heir apparent, until her mother is murdered. Lotte is raised in exile and abused by nuns who hide the truth of her own magic from her, until she's fetched "home" to compete for the ax and the right to lead her family into the next generation. A fascinating magical competition ensues, complicated by additional cousins who are all unworthy in one way or another, as Nora and Lotte attempt to solve various mysteries and come to terms who the reality of the world around them. It ends on a cliffhanger, which normally would make me cranky, but resolved enough that I am instead eager for the next book!

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin/Viking for the opportunity to read and review this book. Unfortunately this book did not work for me and I am DNFing this book at 50%.
The premise of young rich heirs competing against each other for the chance to become basically in the style of American Horror Story The Supreme of their family and head of a city dedicated to them was the part of this story that I was drawn into. Unfortunately after the first 20%-25% of this book it turned into a uninteresting murder mystery and missing relative comes back to take center stage story and I felt myself become completely bored by all of the characters and the plot lines.

An epic fantasy tale with elements of steampunk and rich folklore, The Notorious Virtues is a story about two girls - a media-darling sparkling heiress and an abandoned mind-reader raised in a convent - thrust into a magical competition to control their family and their city.

Nora Holtzfall is the presumed heir to the family wealth and magic that controls a country - at least until her mother dies and she’s thrust into a magical competition against her insipid cousins to be named heiress. At the last minute, a surprise contestant appears. Lotte is retrieved from the convent she was abandoned at as an infant by her mother to compete while grappling with the truth of her identity and struggling to control her magic.

The true story isn’t the trial - Nora discovers her mother was murdered and teams up with a reporter on an investigation that takes them to speakeasy’s and rebel headquarters. Meanwhile, Lotte teams up with Theo to discover the truth of her parentage and learn what really happened to his brother.

Nora shines as a character. When first introduced, she’s depicted as flighty and spoiled but she’s so quick-witted, determined and engaging that I rooted for her the whole time. Lotte seemed so petty when we first meet her, but she grows so quickly as a character. The more she learns of the world she was born into, the more she learns to stand on her own for what’s right. These two are the female empowerment duo we deserve. I love the team they make.

The world-building is rich and the story, told mostly in the present - includes flashbacks to the origin of Holtzfall family power. I loved seeing how their history started as caretakers and guardians of the country but twisted into domination and greed over their long history. Side characters are so well fleshed out. I thoroughly enjoyed this and can’t wait for the next in the series.

There were some formatting and editing errors in the electronic copy that I received. It didn’t effect my enjoyment of the story, but I hope another round of editing before release fixes them.

LOVED this book. I really liked Hamilton's Rebel series and thought i would give this a try. I was honestly not expecting much, but could not put it down. There were so many angles, so many. So many that you rooted for, so many you knew that were a bad egg. It was so nice to have all the different POVs. I am very excitedly (and anxiously) awaiting the next book in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley for and advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review. These opinions are my own.

This story has a fairytale quality along with a mystery to keep one turning pages. In Walstad, there are the Holtzfall family, their knights and then the rest of society. The Holtzfalls own the majority of magic and wealth in the town. There is always one Holtzfall that is the head of the family and his/her children must compete in the Veritas trials to determine the next heir. The current heir, Verity, had only one child, Honora, so she was the heir to the heir. But Verity has been murdered and the knight who protected her is missing. Now Honora is no longer the sole heir and must compete with her cousins. On top of that she is determined to find out who killed her mother. Lotte has always lived unwanted in a convent with some cruel nuns. Suddenly she has been summoned to Walstad. It seems that she too is a Holtzfall. But why has she been hidden away all these years? Can she possibly compete with her rich cousins? To make matters worse there is a growing discontent among the poor that is now converging upon Walstad and the Holtzfalls. Where will it all end?

*Thank you to Penguin Teen for an advance copy to read and review.*

The Notorious Virtues in my opinion, is phenomenal. This is going to be the book to beat in 2025 for me. I definitely had a book hangover after finishing this one. I have been eagerly awaiting this book ever since it was first announced back in 2019, and let me tell you it did not disappoint.

The book follows Honora “Nora” Holtzfall, as she deals with the murder of her mother and has to compete in an ancient competition, the Veritaz, to determine who will be the next heiress of the Holtzfall family. Nora and her cousins have to wager their magic in order to compete in a series of trials based on virtues. If they succeed in a trial, they win a ring that will give them entrance to the final test, where only the most virtuous can claim the Holtzfall axe and become the next heiress. The winner receives all the magic, money and control of the Holtzfall family.

You also get the pov of a few different characters too. Lotte, a long lost Holtzfall daughter and new cousin to Nora. Theo, a knight and sworn protector of the Holtzfall family. And lastly, August, a reporter who gets tangled up in Nora’s hunt for answers about her mother’s death.

While the Holtzfall’s may be the most powerful family in town, they are not the most loved. There is a political uprising from the lower classes that want the magic and wealth of the upper classes to be more evenly distributed. A group called the Grims are trying to upset the balance of power and dethrone the Holtzfall family. This of course adds to the danger of the Veritaz trials.

This book was so wonderfully written. I loved the characters and the world building. It just felt lush and fantastic. It’s like Gossip Girl mixed with fantasy elements and set in a 1920’s inspired world. I am desperately craving book two. As soon as this book is released I’ll be getting the audiobook to do a reread.

OMG.

This is the first Alwyn Hamilton book I have ever read And I think I might be ✨obsessed✨. I already ordered her book Rebel of the sands and I’m so exited to read it. But back to the point, first thing I noticed about the book is the cover, you just know the book is going to be good when the cover is full of trinkets that make no sense, but you know they will once you read the book. ( I spent an hour trying to decode the cover, can you tell??)

I should have paid more attention to my self defense class because this book got me in a chokehold so fast. I have never had a book with multiple POV’s finished so fast, and it’s set in a 1900 ish setting but with magic….can you ask for any more?!? The characters are so well written and fleshed out, and the setting is just perfect. High hopes for the rest of the series.

Thank you to netgalley for the arc

I've read this, my long personal national nightmare is over - review to come.

So, I love Alwyn Hamilton's writing - The Rebel Sands is one of my all time favourite trilogies. And I have been waiting (so patiently, I promise) for this book since it was announced - everyone knows that this book has been my white whale since at least 2020. So when the ARC's went up on NetGalley, I was tagged immediately, and here we are.

I say all of that to say I don't think this review is entirely objective - on the whole (though maybe if you already know the backstory) you can feel at times that Hamilton did struggle with this book, but that didn't interrupt my enjoyment of the story. The concept, world building and plot are excellent here - minor spoiler: there's a connection to the Rebel Sands world through Nora's grandmother. It's mentioned pretty early on & it's the sort of thing that I have to imagine will play a bigger part in the rest of the series.

On the character front: I appreciated (for the most part) the split POV, meeting all the key players separately was great. However, even though the POV is all close 3rd person, I don't know that you really get to fully know or connect with any of them (probably with the exception of Nora - my love). I really appreciate Hamilton‘s commitment to all of her main characters always been complicated and they never perfect.

Anyway, really enjoyed this, very excited to see where it all goes next.

Admittedly the first 100 pages gave me hunger games, the selection and other typical YA read vibes however I am happy that it didn't turn out that way at all.

The Holztfall family has held power over not just the people of Walstad but magic for centuries. Nora being the rich spoiled do whatever she wants gets whatever she wants heiress to this power ends up being tested in ways her clever self didn't see coming. After he mother unexpectedly gets murdered an immediate call for the Veritaz trials to begin sets this book into a whirlwind of magical mystery.

The trials are held to put each participant through tests to determine their worthy enough to be the next heiress. The next in line to have all the money, power and control of well everything. Nora competes in these trials with her cousins. I call them all spoiled rich brats and that's exactly how the "drama" unfolds.

When all the girls lineup for their moment to shine Lotte appeara as if out of thin air for her chance to have it all. Except no one has ever heard of her. Until that very moment she was just a country girl being raised in a Covent where she is treated like the lowest of the lower class with 1 pretend friend and a secret. That secret ends up being her one way ticket to the center of the Holtzfall family. Not just the physical beings. The secrets, the lies, the betrayed, the evil and all the magic.

It was refreshing to read a fantasy with this type of magic system set up. Something unique and different and not the typical flick the wrist call upon the ancients and poof I wield the magic. What I enjoyed most is the mushy mushy romance was minimal barely present and I didn't even miss it. No lovey lovey steamy scenes but enough flirtatious interactions between characters to make it interesting. I didn't mind. I wanted the games to behin and continue not read about who is on bed together anyways.

Of course no fight for the crown is complete with a side quest of mystery to solve in the midst of battling not only family but the Grims who stand against everything a Holtzfall is.

So many plot twists. So many secrets. The best part as the reader you get to know some of these guarded truths and lies and the other characters don't. Had me screaming into the pages no no stop don't do that don't go with her. Full of surprises that's for sure.

Some parts in the middle are a little mediocre and I read it as slightly rushed or not thought out very well. It didn't take away from enjoying the story though. Right up until the last sentence I was gripping the pages wanting, no needing, to know what happens next.

Highly recommend as a must read for 2025. Oh and let's not forget the ending that has me flipping the book upside down looking for more. Ugh now I have to wait for who knows how long.

I started off feeling a little meh on The Notorious Virtues because the two protagonists introduced first, Nora and Lotte, seemed self absorbed and pathetic/vindictive, respectfully. As the story went on and depth was added to their characters I enjoyed them much more and it made the story more interesting. It has a little bit of a Hunger Games feel to it, in that there's a competition with the winner becoming heir to the extensive family fortune and power that goes along with it. Nora was the presumptive heir until her mother was murdered, creating the competition for a new heir. At first glance she isn't anyone to root for, but as the story goes on the hunt to find her mother's killer and her quick thinking several steps ahead of everyone else make her a fun character to root for. Lotte is the bastard child that's been tucked away in the country, tired of being treated poorly and desperate for a friendship revealed to be one-sided. Once she realizes she has family, an unintended friend in Nora and feelings for one of the knights sworn to protect the family, she decided it's worth fighting for even if she isn't particularly concerned about being heir. But the competition isn't the only thing that's happening in Walstad. Discontent is rising among the poor and a group is organizing to overthrow the Holtzfall family - and it may or may not be connected to the death of Nora's mother. Since this is the first book in a series, I don't want to give away too many details, but I really liked how Hamilton wove together the family trials with a more serious uprising that sets the tone for the second book in the series. I didn't expect the book to end the way it did, but it was a great way to provide a conclusion to the first book and create the opening for the second book. There is a little bit of romance in the book, but the focus is definitely more fantasy based. A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I absolutely devoured this book. I had never read this author and figured I would give it a shot and could not put it down. Now I’m just waiting for this book to drop so I’m one step closer to getting my hands on the next book. Please, please let me read the next book. I need it now. Until then I will highly encourage everyone to check this book out. The intrigue and the flow of the story had me on the edge of my seat. This is already a top book of the year in my opinion.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.

Alwyn Hamilton’s "The Notorious Virtues" is a dazzling and immersive fantasy novel that delves into themes of power, family dynamics, and personal growth. Set in the opulent and treacherous world of the city-state of Valkyr, the story is a captivating blend of magic, political intrigue, and adventure that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.

The novel centers around Nora, the adopted daughter of the influential Dacre family, who has always lived in the shadow of her more powerful and glamorous cousins. The Dacre family is known for their wealth and their mastery of the Virtues, a set of magical abilities that grant them power and influence. When the head of the family, Lotte Dacre, dies under mysterious circumstances, Nora finds herself thrust into a dangerous competition to prove herself worthy of inheriting the family’s fortune and power.

Hamilton excels at creating a richly detailed and vibrant world. Valkyr is a city of contrasts, filled with luxury and decadence but also seething with danger and intrigue. The city’s intricate politics and the complex web of alliances and rivalries add depth and realism to the story. Hamilton’s world-building is meticulous, with every detail contributing to the overall atmosphere and tension of the novel.

Nora is a compelling and relatable protagonist. Her journey from a girl who feels overshadowed and underestimated to one who discovers her own strength and worth is both inspiring and captivating. Hamilton portrays Nora’s internal struggles with authenticity, capturing her doubts, fears, and determination. As Nora navigates the treacherous waters of the competition and uncovers secrets about her family and herself, she grows into a strong and resourceful young woman. Her character arc is both satisfying and emotionally resonant.

The supporting characters in "The Notorious Virtues" are equally well-developed and add richness to the narrative. From Nora’s ambitious and ruthless cousins to the enigmatic figures she meets along her journey, each character plays a significant role in the unfolding drama. Hamilton skillfully weaves their backstories and motivations into the plot, creating a tapestry of interconnected lives that enhances the overall complexity and intrigue of the story.

One of the standout features of the novel is its exploration of power and its consequences. The Virtues, while granting immense power to those who possess them, also come with significant risks and responsibilities. Hamilton delves into the moral and ethical implications of wielding such power, raising thought-provoking questions about ambition, loyalty, and the true cost of achieving one’s goals. The novel’s exploration of these themes adds depth and nuance to the fantasy elements, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

The plot of "The Notorious Virtues" is intricately woven and expertly paced. Hamilton balances moments of high tension and action with quieter, introspective scenes that delve into the characters’ psyches. Each chapter ends with a hook that propels readers forward, creating a narrative that is both suspenseful and emotionally engaging. The twists and turns of the plot keep readers on their toes, and the final revelations are both surprising and satisfying.

Hamilton’s writing style is both evocative and engaging. Her prose is vivid and descriptive, capturing the opulence of Valkyr and the intensity of the characters’ emotions. The dialogue is sharp and reflective of the characters’ personalities, adding authenticity to their interactions. Hamilton’s ability to convey emotion through her writing is particularly noteworthy, making the novel’s most poignant moments resonate with readers.

A wonderfully crafted fantasy novel, this story offers a perfect blend of magic, intrigue, and personal growth. With its well-developed characters, intricate plot, and thoughtful exploration of power and its consequences, it is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure.

Thank you to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

What an interesting and creative story! At first glance one might think it is just another fantasy revolving around the over-used trope of fighting in a trial for worthiness. But, Ms. Hamilton has done a remarkable job of setting that trope on its end and developing an entirely new spin that is both refreshing and engaging.

The plot revolves around two main characters: Honora (Nora) is an uber-wealthy, pampered and indulged heiress who cares little for anyone aside from herself until her mother is killed and she lands in a fight with her four cousins to become heir. Ottaline (Lotte) is one of those cousins, although she, nor anyone else, had any idea until she is rescued from the vicious abuse she has endured her entire life at a convent in a small, obscure town. There are numerous secondary characters that are also highlighted and given page time and POVs, as well. This can be somewhat frustrating to begin with, as the reader has no immediate basis for understanding why. It does work out, however, as the story progresses and the world becomes more clear.

The “trial” itself is an intriguing twist. It requires the competitors demonstrate not only courage and intelligence, but honesty and unity, as well. These challenges can pop up at any time in a given day and each participant may experience it in different ways. Now this! This is what really draws the book into the can’t put down space! Because, this is when the character’s true inner weaknesses and demons come to the surface - and drive the suspense and intrigue!

The world is a bit confusing. It reads as a fantasy-type world, yet there are cars and many aspects that lean toward a contemporary “real” world. The best description might be a semi roaring 20s era with magic. The overall feel of the story also rides a bit on the dark side, as most of the characters are rather nasty and/or self-serving. Our main characters do slowly grow and learn, however, which allows us to invest in their success.

A word of warning, though. The book does end in a substantial cliff-hanger. The overall challenge is not reconciled, only paused until the next book publishes. That was super frustrating! Still, it is a superb read overall, one that is absolutely worth the wait for the next round!

I really appreciate the placement of The Woodcutter stories throughout. It helps with the world building and gives a good understanding of where everything started and how everything evolved. Without those I would’ve had completely different thoughts on the book.

Power and family secrets are the driving forces in The Notorious Virtues. One family has the most magic and money and the defendants compete to be the head of the family. Even though this is a huge part of the world it’s not the biggest part of the book. There were so many surprises throughout and a whole bunch I didn’t see coming.

The last 30-35% is where the pace picks up. Everything before that has a good pace but the last bit the gloves come off and then we are naturally left with a huge opening for more books.

I am very rusty on folk tales and children’s stories but I got the feeling that this is roughly based on a folk tale. I could be completely wrong but it’s the vibe I got.

This immediately caught my attention because I had recently finished Alwyn Hamiltons other trilogy The Rebel of the Sands. These two have wildly different stories and both stories I was dragged into from the start. With this book the world and the magic felt so fleshed out and I really enjoyed the origin story chapters of the Holtzfalls ancestors and how tge family came to be so powerful with their magic and their political ties to the city. I will say that their are 2 romances happening in here that I just kind of didn't care for just due to how many things were happening around the characters that were just way more interesting. That and the trials that the younger members of the family kind of felt rushed along to further another plot with made the pacing kind of seem off and yet I couldn't put this book down. I loved this book pretty much until the end and then I was like "that's it?" The ending came so abruptly and I felt like it was just setting up for a sequel which I don't mind usually but this just felt like the characters were running off a cliff. Not hanging, just jumping straight off. It was very jarring and made me kind of feel cheated, so readers will definitely be upset at the end of this one which might just be intentional to get them to read the sequel. Overall great worldbuilding, unique magic system reminiscent of we are all villains and some really crazy starlings kept me on the edge of my seat. Hamilton really knows how to write well thought out stories.

Loved this story. It really surprised me through out and I was dying to know where the story would go. These characters are epic and their journey is top tier.

I really liked this. I enjoyed it setting and I am curious what we'll learn about the rest of the world in coming books. I also grew to really like our four protagonists. Unfortunately it became a bit predictable towards the end and it was slowed down by what I call a 'Just-Talk-Already'-plot. But I am looking forward to a sequel after it's ending

This sounded so good and everything I really do love for this genre. Alas, this did fall a bit flat for me. I'm admit, right from the start, it was a bit of a struggle for me to get into and then to continue reading. I do love the folklore of this one quite a bit.

This book sounded so good and I was excited to read it. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t a great book to me. I found it boring and had a hard time finishing it.