All of Us Villains by authors Amanda Foody and C.L. Herman is about seven teenagers picked as champions in a tournament occurring each generation, where only one can reclaim ancient magic for their families. Now exposed to the world, the Blood Moon Curse tournament is being watched and followed by everyone in the city of Ilvernath. The story follows the perspectives of four champions and their internal battle to choose between supplying their family with glory or rewriting the rules of their predicament.
I recently reread this book and was again drawn by the characters and the intensity of the magical Hunger Games-like tournament. The story told in four parts was the most interesting as it highlighted what made each champion different. Initially, all want to participate in the tournament to reap its reward of more power for their families, but they each become more aware of the brutality that has to be endured. I was able to pick up elements about the main “villains” and subtle character-developing that I had not recognized when reading the book for the first time. Along with its fascinatingly determined characters, the story’s detailed world-building makes you curious about Ilvernath’s history. Fortunately, each champion has their own amount of family lore that satisfies your interest but makes you feel a little concerned about the characters’ upbringing. All of Us Villains dark atmosphere, unique magic, and just the right number of plot twists make the book all the more engaging for those who love to read fantasy and fierce competition.