The Unbroken (Magic of the Lost, #1)

by C.L. Clark

A smile quirked across Pruett’s lips. “You forget—I did know Hanan. She was a stubborn clod of shit. She punched the biggest kid in the balls when she was six, and she’s been insufferable ever since.” Touraine snorted.

Touraine waited three long breaths before she growled, “Can I kill him, or do you want to?” Despite the tension only just beginning to unspool from her shoulders, Luca couldn’t help but smile. “Let’s take turns,” she said.

Then, still holding the cup, Touraine giggled. This broad-shouldered, muscle-bound ex-soldier, who spent most of her time either glowering or bowing at people, had smirked at her future queen, and now she was actually giggling.

Touraine strutted toward Luca with her chin high, a smug smile on her lips. Djasha, however, caught Touraine’s arm. “There are three rounds, girl. The victor takes two.”

You don’t find a life. You have to make one, with the people around you and the causes you put your strength into.

“I don’t doubt your experience, any of you. However, I want different results. We try this my way first. If it doesn’t work, there will be plenty of time to go murdering my innocent subjects at your leisure.”

“Executing a traitor and stopping the rebellion will help you get there. They’ll know you’re strong, efficient, and willing to do what’s necessary.” “Touraine, please—” “I hope your rule is so magnificent that this was worth it.”