A Kingdom of Promises and Lies

by N.F. Schmitt

One Kingdom for the taking.One Princess with a mission to become Queen.Two Prince brothers standing in her way.Prince Rafael Baylor is the most sought-after bachelor as the heir to the wealthiest and largest monarchy. He could have his pick of any female, but his attention has been captured by the tower princess.

Princess Persamina Rowena is navigating through The Courting Season and finding herself with feelings between Prince Rafael Baylor and his brother, Prince Killien Knox. While feeling conflicted between the brothers, she faces hard truths as she learns about the depth of despair that her own Kingdom has fallen into.

Genres: Fantasy

314 pages, Paperback

Published March 5, 2024

About the author

I write romance, love stories, and fantasy books. I have had stories in my head since childhood, but it wasn't until Mina's story, in "A Kingdom of Promises and Lies" came rattling in my head that I ever actually completed a story from start to finish. Initially, Mina's story was supposed to be a complete standalone, but then I fell in love with the characters. I realized I wanted to give a voice to their stories too and thus The Courting Seasons series was born.
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I am a born and raised Iowa girl, living in the country with my husband and all our pets. When I'm not writing or reading, you can find me ATVing, video gaming or tending to my various indoor and outdoor plants.

Prior to writing, I initially went to art school and currently design my own book covers and character art.

Reviews

[Jessica Rigsby · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Kingdom of Promises and Lies" by N.F. Schmitt is an enchanting debut novel that grips readers from the very first page. Set in a kingdom ripe with intrigue and ambition, Schmitt weaves a captivating tale of love, duty, and betrayal.

From the outset, Schmitt's storytelling prowess shines through, drawing readers into a world where one kingdom's fate hangs in the balance. What truly sets this novel apart is its accessibility; with no convoluted names or complex plots to navigate, readers can effortlessly immerse themselves in the story.

Even when the book was closed, its characters lingered in my thoughts, none more so than Princess Persamina Rowena. Locked away from society for so long, Mina's journey evokes a protective instinct in readers, compelling us to root for her every step of the way.

While Mina's vulnerability tugs at the heartstrings, I couldn't help but wish she stood up for herself more, especially in the face of Prince Rafael Baylor's overbearing presence. However, amidst the cast of characters, Prince Montgomery Victory emerges as a beacon of strength and charm, capturing hearts with his unwavering humor.

Schmitt's portrayal of the complexities of female relationships is both poignant and thought-provoking, highlighting the depths of human emotion with finesse. Additionally, her descriptive prowess brings each scene to life, evoking imagery that transports readers to the heart of the kingdom.

With echoes of beloved tales like "The Selection," "Rapunzel," and a hint of "From Blood and Ash," "A Kingdom of Promises and Lies" offers a fresh take on classic themes, appealing to readers of all ages. Furthermore, the subtle infusion of spice adds a layer of depth, making it a compelling adult read.

In conclusion, N.F. Schmitt's debut novel is a triumph of storytelling, blending romance, intrigue, and royalty in a mesmerizing tapestry. "A Kingdom of Promises and Lies" is a must-read for anyone craving an escape into a world of nobility and adventure.

[Mila · Rating 2 out of 5]

I should start by saying, I saw this book on threads in a comment as a rec. It drew me in immediately because it was called a romantasy love triangle with brothers. It wasn't on KU, had to get it on Apple Books.

I fully admit to skimming most of it past 65% because I grew extremely bored but was curious who she picked. I'm not going to even touch on that part, it was disappointing and apparently, book 2 isn't even about Mina so that's the ending we're left with.

Mina was annoying as a character and wasn't given enough time to have a fully developed character arc. I feel the book was chopped off at the end to be done with it. The ending did not have the same feeling as the beginning. Bay was just frat boy Chad behavior with a brief moment of caring when Mina was sick. Knox was laughable. I found him to be a very sheltered man-child. I was not too fond of these characters, I think Montgomery is the only reason I'm not giving 1 star. The author seemed to give him a likable personality solely. This was promoted as a fantasy book to me and I honestly have no idea why this would be romantasy, there's no fantasy to it other than a kingdom would never be run like that. Wasn't for me.

[Booktokqutiepie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bay, Knox, and Montgomery oh my…

So first let me say bravo job well done to N. F. Schmitt on her debut novel!

Tropes that we see in this book :
❤️love triangle
❤️he falls first
❤️ instant love (to a degree)
❤️2 brothers 1 girl
❤️court politics
❤️protective MMC’s
❤️twists and turns
❤️secrets and betrayals

So this story centers around Mina a princess from a Kingdom that has seen better days and has hit hard times. Now that she has come of age it is time to go to court and see who if anyone she will marry to help save her Kingdom from ruin. I will say read the trigger warnings for this book there is some abusive elements and other elements that could be hard for some to read. Mina’s story is entangled with two princes in particular and their story blooms in this debut novel. I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 and 🌶️🌶️🌶️. I feel that some of the interactions between the love triangle could have been fleshed out more and seen more from those alternate character perspectives on page. The spicy scenes were well done and not overpowering for the plot of the book as a whole.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic start to a series! I was completely transported to this world within a few pages. Mina’s character and her growth was phenomenal to read. I adore her. I’m not usually a fan of love triangles, and I honestly could not choose between Bay and Knox. They are both, equally, amazing MMC’s being wonderfully protective of Mina. I was bogged down a bit from the level of descriptions of things, especially such as garment and room descriptions. However, that is a personal idiosyncrasy of mine. The spice level was good, a little on the low end for me, but still enough that I needed some ice water to cool down. I am excited to see what happens next in this world.

[Marissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I expected more from this book. I was very excited for it. Did I get a love triangle? Yes. Did it feel clunky and forced? Absolutely.

There wasn't enough character development to justify anything between the princes and the princess. I think the best parts of this book were the handmaiden that helped princess persimina and the mean girls because they at least had personality.

Knox felt like he was this instant love, I'm going to cry if you don't love me back guy.

Bay was nothing special either.

Overall I'm just underwhelmed with this book. Loved the idea but it definitely needed to be flushed out more.

[Jody Moran · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Kingdom of Promises & Lies" is a well-crafted fantasy novel that offers a blend of political intrigue, magical elements, and complex character dynamics. Schmitt's intricate world-building, compelling characters, and exploration of significant themes make it a standout read for fans of the genre. The novel provides a satisfying mix of adventure and introspection, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in what promises to be a captivating series. I look forward to reading the rest of the series and anything else she puts out🫶🫶🫶🫶🫶

[Leticia · Rating 2 out of 5]

The story opens in perfect form and your sucked into how fast paced and interesting it unfolds, however, I wanted to enjoy this more if I didn’t feel so judgemental towards the two mmc’s
Something unstable about the both of them and not in a good way
The spicy scenes were awkward and cold I really felt for the fmc
I guess we will know in the following series if the scene was set this way for a reason
I felt short changed 😞

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good book!!! I absolutely loved it. It totally gives The Selection vibes minus the dystopia setting!!! I was very invested in how this was going to turn out. However I do have some questions from the end but I suppose I'll just have to read book two for those answers 😊

Wonderfully written. Fast paced and there's a pronunciation guide in the front which is so perfect!!!

Why are you still reading my review go get the book and read that lol

[Kyle Brookins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mina's story is one of growth, love, hurt, and finding one's self. I love the growth in Minas character it is beautifully written. While i was reading this book, i could literally imagine the story in my head and feel all of the emotions transpiring as the book went on. Such a great start to the series. If you like love triangles, family secrets, and some pretty good banter, go read this book.

[Mikayla Tague · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my lanta the love triangle!! Mina had to work through so much to get to where she ended up. But I have so many questions and NEED book 2!!!!

Will Bay somehow be involved? Will Knox remain level headed? I question the who the father really is for Mina’s daughter…

I seriously couldn’t put this book down. I had to know what was going to happen next and honestly I was not disappointed.

[Books_over_Reality · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the story. Think mean girls and through in a little Disney feels. Now don’t get me wrong, it has some spice 2 chili peppers for me. I was team Knox from the beginning and stayed that way throughout! Cannot wait for book 2.

[Kyra Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great read!

If you enjoy Brigerton you will enjoy this. The main characters develop is so well written and just makes me so happy to see her grow. I cannot wait for the next book!

[Alisha Cottingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my lanta, Nicole nailed her debut book. This book pulled at all my heart strings and it was so beautiful. A perfect definitely of love triangle. Are you team Knox or team Bay? I'm team love triangle 😘

[Larissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, duty, betrayal, and political intrigue?! What more could my reader heart ask for?!

I love everything about this beautiful, romantic, and slightly chaotic book. It is an incredible journey from start to finish and I cannot wait to read more from this author!

[June · Rating 4 out of 5]

Its the Courting season, Princes Persamina Rowena has been hidden all her life, now she must navigate the Courting season with strict instructions from her mother she must marry Prince Rafael Baylor. She ends up having feelings for both brothers, who will choose her?

[Caffeinatedandbound · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot rave enough about this book. I went in totally blind, thinking I was reading another book on my kindle. I raved about it for well months. I am just dying for book two.

[Allisa Rhipps · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this author. The cover is vivid and beautiful. It's a spectacular fae romance with a delicious love triangle type of thing. If you haven't followed her on social media yet, you should TODAY!

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good

I buddy read this book. The authors world was amazing. I felt for Mina. Her mother is horrible. I highly recommend this book.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful story from debut author. As far as the story goes, Schmitt has the chops for telling a great story.

Are there kinks that need worked out still, yes but they a fixable and don’t take much from the story line at all. The characters are relatable and really draw you into the story.

I will say this book left me wanting so much more. SO much more. Overall I would recommend this story to others.