What do you think?
Rate this book
The Petulant Princess
The Petulant Princess is a slow-burn romantasy perfect for fans of From Blood and Ash and Serpent and Dove—where family is found not sired. A ruthless regent rules with an iron fist, and a lost princess is chosen by gods she doesn’t believe in.
What if you never wanted to be the princess of the story?
At the tender age of six, Elspeth’s father, King of Wynterborne, died—leaving her without parents. Her older brother, Adastrus, was her remaining guardian. Unfortunately, he was also mad.
Sainte Nytestorm was her salvation, and fifteen years later may be her end.
Growing up in a kingdom that was not her own, Elspeth made it by. She scrounged and fought for everything she had—which wasn’t much—but with her friends, it was enough. Nearing her twenty-first birthday, Sainte appears and drags her away from the only real home she’s known.
To remove her brother from power, she must pass the Trials of the Gods. But where were the gods when her brother tried to kill her? Relying on the whims of gods that no one can see is a death sentence. Elspeth is thrown into the sea of politics.
And she can’t swim.
The lost princess, once thought dead, is restored. The brother, reigning regent, is eager for her death. The gods are watching, moving behind the scenes, playing their games.
For Elspeth, it’s too much. She has everyone, but only wants Sainte.
For Sainte, it’s his duty. He has Elspeth, and needs no one else.
From the author of the Fate Unraveled Trilogy comes a new standalone Fantasy Romance! Buy The Petulant Princess today to find out how a princess can win the heart of her bodyguard!
What if you never wanted to be the princess of the story?
At the tender age of six, Elspeth’s father, King of Wynterborne, died—leaving her without parents. Her older brother, Adastrus, was her remaining guardian. Unfortunately, he was also mad.
Sainte Nytestorm was her salvation, and fifteen years later may be her end.
Growing up in a kingdom that was not her own, Elspeth made it by. She scrounged and fought for everything she had—which wasn’t much—but with her friends, it was enough. Nearing her twenty-first birthday, Sainte appears and drags her away from the only real home she’s known.
To remove her brother from power, she must pass the Trials of the Gods. But where were the gods when her brother tried to kill her? Relying on the whims of gods that no one can see is a death sentence. Elspeth is thrown into the sea of politics.
And she can’t swim.
The lost princess, once thought dead, is restored. The brother, reigning regent, is eager for her death. The gods are watching, moving behind the scenes, playing their games.
For Elspeth, it’s too much. She has everyone, but only wants Sainte.
For Sainte, it’s his duty. He has Elspeth, and needs no one else.
From the author of the Fate Unraveled Trilogy comes a new standalone Fantasy Romance! Buy The Petulant Princess today to find out how a princess can win the heart of her bodyguard!
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 19, 2024
79 people are currently reading
963 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 448 reviews
October 26, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read from M.A. Frick and it didn’t disappoint!! I read it in a day if that tells you anything. Also, you 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 it’s good if 𝘐 am rating it this high and it has zero spice 😂
Elspeth’s father, King of Wynterborne, died when she was 6 - leaving her without parents. Her older brother, Adastrus, was her remaining guardian. Unfortunately, brotha was CUCKOO FOR COCOA COCOA PUFFS. Our MMC, Sainte, takes her and hides her away in the slums. Right before her 21st birthday, Sainte appears and drags her away from her new home and friends. She then has to pass the Trials of the Gods to remove her brother from power.
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
I enjoyed watching Elspeth’s growth from lost princess to ruler. Was she bratty? Idk maybe. But I would've acted the same and probably would've ran away way more times than she did 🤣 And Sainte? UGH. The way he visited her every year on her birthday while she was away?? 🥺 I also ate up the banter between these two. The trials and gods/goddesses were honestly some of my favorite aspects of the book though.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read. It’s a great standalone romantasy!!
𝐓𝐖: SA of a side character.
Age gap - the MMC has known the FMC since she was a child, but they don’t have a relationship until she’s 21. It wasn’t weird at all to me though.
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✨ Slow Burn (but no spice)
✨ Princess x Bodyguard
✨ Forbidden Love
✨ Trials
✨ Found Family
✨ Gods/Goddesses
Thank you so much to M.A. Frick for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Elspeth’s father, King of Wynterborne, died when she was 6 - leaving her without parents. Her older brother, Adastrus, was her remaining guardian. Unfortunately, brotha was CUCKOO FOR COCOA COCOA PUFFS. Our MMC, Sainte, takes her and hides her away in the slums. Right before her 21st birthday, Sainte appears and drags her away from her new home and friends. She then has to pass the Trials of the Gods to remove her brother from power.
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
I enjoyed watching Elspeth’s growth from lost princess to ruler. Was she bratty? Idk maybe. But I would've acted the same and probably would've ran away way more times than she did 🤣 And Sainte? UGH. The way he visited her every year on her birthday while she was away?? 🥺 I also ate up the banter between these two. The trials and gods/goddesses were honestly some of my favorite aspects of the book though.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read. It’s a great standalone romantasy!!
𝐓𝐖: SA of a side character.
Age gap - the MMC has known the FMC since she was a child, but they don’t have a relationship until she’s 21. It wasn’t weird at all to me though.
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✨ Slow Burn (but no spice)
✨ Princess x Bodyguard
✨ Forbidden Love
✨ Trials
✨ Found Family
✨ Gods/Goddesses
Thank you so much to M.A. Frick for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
August 11, 2024
This book was fun, I enjoyed the story and the plot line. I was a little turned off by the romance, thankfully it’s not a spicy book, but the FMC falls for the man that saved her when she was 6 years old. And she’s had a crush on him basically her whole life. I don’t mind age gaps, though we are unaware of how big the age gap is. But the way this one was written bothered me. I didn’t like that there was no obvious change in his feelings for her. Where he just decided this grown woman was worth it. He obviously cared for her the whole time, but the change in his feelings wasn’t obviously after she became an adult and that really bothered me. I did appreciate that there was a time jump and a gap when they didn’t see each other to allow her to become an adult. But from the way I understood it, he was attracted to her even when she was a teen. Again, thankfully no spice, so it’s easier to push through that and follow the plot. I did like the plot, and I will definitely read more books from this author. I just hope any future age gaps are much more obvious in the changes.
August 5, 2024
I had the pleasure of meeting Elspeth and Sainte and the crew at the very beginning of their existence; and what an adventure we had!!!
Sainte.... living up to his name. Rescues a child from her brother and makes sure she doesn't have a single birthday feeling forgotten or unworthy. Watches out for her and tries to lead her straight.
Elspeth.... snarky little thing, I love her!!!! She has sass and learns early on that family is who's there for you. Blood is NOT thicker than water.
M.A. makes a world so real I googled names and titles because I was convinced they did exist, and I just didn't remember reading of them before. Banter was so smooth and believable, I found myself smiling and maybe even giggling out loud.
I cried with Ellie. I hurt with Sainte. I mourned with Layana. I slammed the lid shut on the kindle and walked away, knowing I hated Adastrus. Wynterborne will live in my soul!!
All accomplished without cuss words or sex scenes!! An amazing thing to be able to do with today's audience cravings.
I loved the lack of world building... too much of that is a bore, I can learn it as we travel the story.
I wish I had more time with Sainte and Ellie... with a smidge less drama, as they're the best couple I have read about in a while. I also wonder if the emerald eyed small ones would share any of the same..... another story, perhaps.
Thank you, M.A. Frick for the grand adventure through Landings End and Wynterborne. For allowing me to be one of the first to meet Elspeth, I loved her so. For that, you receive my honest review!! (And a fan for life because...... your books are clearly the place to be)
Sainte.... living up to his name. Rescues a child from her brother and makes sure she doesn't have a single birthday feeling forgotten or unworthy. Watches out for her and tries to lead her straight.
Elspeth.... snarky little thing, I love her!!!! She has sass and learns early on that family is who's there for you. Blood is NOT thicker than water.
M.A. makes a world so real I googled names and titles because I was convinced they did exist, and I just didn't remember reading of them before. Banter was so smooth and believable, I found myself smiling and maybe even giggling out loud.
I cried with Ellie. I hurt with Sainte. I mourned with Layana. I slammed the lid shut on the kindle and walked away, knowing I hated Adastrus. Wynterborne will live in my soul!!
All accomplished without cuss words or sex scenes!! An amazing thing to be able to do with today's audience cravings.
I loved the lack of world building... too much of that is a bore, I can learn it as we travel the story.
I wish I had more time with Sainte and Ellie... with a smidge less drama, as they're the best couple I have read about in a while. I also wonder if the emerald eyed small ones would share any of the same..... another story, perhaps.
Thank you, M.A. Frick for the grand adventure through Landings End and Wynterborne. For allowing me to be one of the first to meet Elspeth, I loved her so. For that, you receive my honest review!! (And a fan for life because...... your books are clearly the place to be)
August 17, 2024
M.A. Frick never fails me! I literally love all of her books. This one was truly interesting! I loved the sassy nature of Elspeth. She is my favorite for sure! Though the MMC was dreamy and love the fact that he was a literal ride of die for Ellie. I loved the friend group too! The brother (prince) could gag himself with a spoon for all I cared, he was literal scum. I had to read this within 24 hours as I just had to know how it all played out for Elspeth! Such an intriguing story! The way the characters are and their development throughout this book was truly remarkable. Loved every moment of this, especially the ending!!
August 10, 2024
M. A. Frick blew it out of the park with The Petulant Princess. It's been a while since I've been able to fully imerse myself in a romantasy. I was plotting Adastrus' fall from the moment he was introduced. He was giving Joffery vibes and brother eww, no. Definitely imagining Henry Cavill with a light beard for Sainte.
Elspeth is a sewer rat. No, not the 🐀✨ kind. Forced to flee Wynterborne at the age of six because of her mad brother, Adastrus, she grew up in the slums. She became adept at pickpocketing and surviving on her own. Sainte, her beloved rescuer from Wynterborne, finds her every birthday.
Right before her 21st birthday, Sainte brings her back to Wynterborne against her will. You see, her mad brother is set to be coronated unless she turns up and challenges his rule. Now Elspeth must learn to be a politician, a ruler, a devout follower to the gods. All while fighting against herself, because she is truly a street rat.
There is an age gap between Sainte and Elspeth. There isn't any spice but this is still a fantastic romantasy and it's renewed my love for the genre. 🖤
Elspeth is a sewer rat. No, not the 🐀✨ kind. Forced to flee Wynterborne at the age of six because of her mad brother, Adastrus, she grew up in the slums. She became adept at pickpocketing and surviving on her own. Sainte, her beloved rescuer from Wynterborne, finds her every birthday.
Right before her 21st birthday, Sainte brings her back to Wynterborne against her will. You see, her mad brother is set to be coronated unless she turns up and challenges his rule. Now Elspeth must learn to be a politician, a ruler, a devout follower to the gods. All while fighting against herself, because she is truly a street rat.
There is an age gap between Sainte and Elspeth. There isn't any spice but this is still a fantastic romantasy and it's renewed my love for the genre. 🖤
August 10, 2024
This was my first book from MA Frick, I was super excited to read it as the summary and tropes seemed like it’d be right up my alley, and I did enjoy reading it and found myself sucked into the plot and the romance but not for reasons I expected.
Like I said, I liked the premise of this book but I think the relationship style just may not be my thing, the only thing that stuck through my head the entire book, was the fact that the main FMC and MMC had known each other since she was 6 years old, and he was of unknown age, but I’m assuming he was an adult.
By age of 16, and again unknown age for the MMC, the FMC is trying quite persistently to get at him, which made me a bit uncomfortable, again because he had known her since she was 6. Once she is 21 they go on to have a romantic and sexual relationship, but it just felt weird to me, and I couldn’t get into it no matter what happened in the story.
I would also recommend adding in some TW’s to the front or back of the book, listing some of the possible triggers in the book such as the SA done to the secondary FMC.
The plot itself was quite original so I would consider checking out some of the Authors other books. I really enjoyed the relationship the FMC had with her friends it was a beautiful way to show that you truly can find and make your own family! 3.5 ⭐️’s
Thank you M.A. Frick for writing this and for allowing me to read it, I appreciate you!
I received this advance review copy at no personal cost and all opinions are my own.
Like I said, I liked the premise of this book but I think the relationship style just may not be my thing, the only thing that stuck through my head the entire book, was the fact that the main FMC and MMC had known each other since she was 6 years old, and he was of unknown age, but I’m assuming he was an adult.
By age of 16, and again unknown age for the MMC, the FMC is trying quite persistently to get at him, which made me a bit uncomfortable, again because he had known her since she was 6. Once she is 21 they go on to have a romantic and sexual relationship, but it just felt weird to me, and I couldn’t get into it no matter what happened in the story.
I would also recommend adding in some TW’s to the front or back of the book, listing some of the possible triggers in the book such as the SA done to the secondary FMC.
The plot itself was quite original so I would consider checking out some of the Authors other books. I really enjoyed the relationship the FMC had with her friends it was a beautiful way to show that you truly can find and make your own family! 3.5 ⭐️’s
Thank you M.A. Frick for writing this and for allowing me to read it, I appreciate you!
I received this advance review copy at no personal cost and all opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2025
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐌.𝐀. 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐩𝐢𝐜 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭'𝐬 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐩𝐮𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧!
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙚𝙩𝙪𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙋𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣 𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙣𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙬𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧-𝙙𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙮, 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙥𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙛 𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙝𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧-𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙜𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚, 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙞𝙜𝙝 𝙛𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙮, 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙉𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙙 𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙨. 𝙒𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖 𝙢𝙞𝙭 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮, 𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙤𝙧, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙜𝙡𝙪𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙨 𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙩, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙨 -𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙥𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣! 𝙄𝙩 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙥𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧 𝙈.𝘼. 𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙙𝙤! 𝙂𝙚𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙!
𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦: We watch as our heroine, Elspeth grows from a young girl into a brave, empowering young woman who would do the absolute most for those that are important to her. Sainte (the mmc) has always been there for Ellie (Elspeth), guarding and safekeeping her through all the trials and tribulations, from her childhood away from her kingdom, hidden in the slums, to her quest to gain the throne. Sainte was a constant and solid presence, even when he wasn't physically there. On the other hand, Ellie had her fair share of acting out, finding herself, and learning to accept who she is and what she must do to protect those she loves. Ellie's growth from street rat, reluctant heir to growing into what's expected of her as a monarch all slowly progressed as she grew from bratty child to strong-willed leader throughout the story. Witnessing the evolution of her character was something I found to be a true delight, in this coming-of-age journey for our young, reluctant princess.
𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘: You will love this story if you love the bodyguard, and forced proximity tropes in your fantasy romance reads. This fantasy-romance novel features an age-gap relationship, with the author detailing the development of the romance and its various complicated facets. The relationship between Ellie and Sainte unfolds as a charming and subtle slow burn that progresses with the story. I liked the pacing of their relationship and the tension that you sometimes could cut with a knife. The only downside? Craving more of Elspeth and Sainte's magnetic chemistry, eagerly awaiting that long-awaited first kiss. Witnessing their journey to a HEA was a beautiful adventure, and the cherry on top? An epilogue that felt like a special treat just for the devoted fans.
𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗧: The plot and Frick's masterful storytelling is what kept me on the edge of my seat - there are so many twists and turns, and Elspeth & friends just could not catch a break. Adastrus was a formidable and detestable villain! With every move calculated to instill fear and every word uttered to manipulate, Adastrus is the epitome of a villain that readers love to despise. The interplay of politics and intrigue woven into the storyline make for a compelling and well-crafted plot. The mythology, unique to this tale, felt fresh and original, drawing me in and leaving me eager for more. Anderz remained one of my favorite secondary characters, even though his true motives for aiding Elspeth throughout the story were never fully revealed, a mystery that even Elspeth pondered over the course of the story.
𝙈.𝘼. 𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙚𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞����, 𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙚𝙨𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙢. 𝙄'𝙢 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙚𝙩𝙪𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙋𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙗𝙮 𝙈.𝘼. 𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙛𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙮 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙣𝙚𝙭𝙩 𝙛𝙖𝙫𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙!
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✨ Slow Burn (but no spice)
✨ Princess x Bodyguard
✨ Age-Gap Romance
✨ Forbidden Love
✨ Godly Trials
✨ Found Family
✨ Unique Mythology & Lore
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Royals & Court Politics
- Standalone Romantasy
- HEA
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘗𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘯𝘰 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯.
𝐓𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝐖𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨: 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘴: 𝘚𝘈 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘚𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳, 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘋𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘴, 𝘋𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘉𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘫𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘰𝘯 𝘱𝘢𝘨𝘦.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙚𝙩𝙪𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙋𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣 𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙣𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙬𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧-𝙙𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙮, 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙥𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙛 𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙝𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧-𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙜𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚, 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙞𝙜𝙝 𝙛𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙮, 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙉𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙙 𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙨. 𝙒𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖 𝙢𝙞𝙭 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮, 𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙤𝙧, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙜𝙡𝙪𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙨 𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙩, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙨 -𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙥𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣! 𝙄𝙩 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙥𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧 𝙈.𝘼. 𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙙𝙤! 𝙂𝙚𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙!
𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦: We watch as our heroine, Elspeth grows from a young girl into a brave, empowering young woman who would do the absolute most for those that are important to her. Sainte (the mmc) has always been there for Ellie (Elspeth), guarding and safekeeping her through all the trials and tribulations, from her childhood away from her kingdom, hidden in the slums, to her quest to gain the throne. Sainte was a constant and solid presence, even when he wasn't physically there. On the other hand, Ellie had her fair share of acting out, finding herself, and learning to accept who she is and what she must do to protect those she loves. Ellie's growth from street rat, reluctant heir to growing into what's expected of her as a monarch all slowly progressed as she grew from bratty child to strong-willed leader throughout the story. Witnessing the evolution of her character was something I found to be a true delight, in this coming-of-age journey for our young, reluctant princess.
𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘: You will love this story if you love the bodyguard, and forced proximity tropes in your fantasy romance reads. This fantasy-romance novel features an age-gap relationship, with the author detailing the development of the romance and its various complicated facets. The relationship between Ellie and Sainte unfolds as a charming and subtle slow burn that progresses with the story. I liked the pacing of their relationship and the tension that you sometimes could cut with a knife. The only downside? Craving more of Elspeth and Sainte's magnetic chemistry, eagerly awaiting that long-awaited first kiss. Witnessing their journey to a HEA was a beautiful adventure, and the cherry on top? An epilogue that felt like a special treat just for the devoted fans.
𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗧: The plot and Frick's masterful storytelling is what kept me on the edge of my seat - there are so many twists and turns, and Elspeth & friends just could not catch a break. Adastrus was a formidable and detestable villain! With every move calculated to instill fear and every word uttered to manipulate, Adastrus is the epitome of a villain that readers love to despise. The interplay of politics and intrigue woven into the storyline make for a compelling and well-crafted plot. The mythology, unique to this tale, felt fresh and original, drawing me in and leaving me eager for more. Anderz remained one of my favorite secondary characters, even though his true motives for aiding Elspeth throughout the story were never fully revealed, a mystery that even Elspeth pondered over the course of the story.
𝙈.𝘼. 𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙚𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞����, 𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙚𝙨𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙢. 𝙄'𝙢 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙚𝙩𝙪𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙋𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙗𝙮 𝙈.𝘼. 𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙛𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙮 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙣𝙚𝙭𝙩 𝙛𝙖𝙫𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙!
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✨ Slow Burn (but no spice)
✨ Princess x Bodyguard
✨ Age-Gap Romance
✨ Forbidden Love
✨ Godly Trials
✨ Found Family
✨ Unique Mythology & Lore
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Royals & Court Politics
- Standalone Romantasy
- HEA
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘗𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘯𝘰 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯.
𝐓𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝐖𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨: 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘴: 𝘚𝘈 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘚𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳, 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘋𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘴, 𝘋𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘉𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘫𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘰𝘯 𝘱𝘢𝘨𝘦.
April 29, 2025
MA Frick has done it again. This one sucked me in and I could not put it down. I loved the characters and the story. Elspeth and Saint are everything. I love Elspeth's sass and I loved Sainte's protectiveness. They compliment each other perfectly.
August 12, 2024
Note: I am only 40% of the way through this book, and it's my second time attempting to read this. I will update this once I finish the book.
I decided to DNF this title for now. On my second read through I still am struggling to connect to these characters and the story. I may pick it up again in a few months to try again because I WANT to like this story.
First thoughts are that if I had to liken this to other well-known stories it would be bits and pieces of From Blood & Ash, Throne of Glass and The Princess Bride. We have a bratty FMC that is refusing to admit she should be ruler and has to go through trials (against her wishes) of the Gods to prove her spot.
I read M.A. Frick's first books, the Fate Unraveled trilogy and was absolutely in LOVE with her writing from the first pages of Forcing Fate. I was so excited when she announced The Petulant Princess thinking I was going to fall head over heels with this story as well. As it stands, I am not loving this story like I thought I would. I'm thinking that this story might just not be for me.
If you are in her secret-not-so-secret street team Facebook page you will get updates, excerpts, and early access to her works. We got the prologue early and I was IN LOVE with the start of this book.
My struggle came then in the first chapters where everything started to fall short. I know the author was trying to "cut the fluff" of so much world building to get to the point and I think that, for me, this took away from my enjoyment.
Things were coming on like bullet points and it felt like I didn't really have the time to understand the FMC and her feelings towards the MMC but the understanding of where things would end up with them was heavily there.
The trials also feel very "Ok this is the trial, now I'm in the trial, ok the trial is done".
This author also does not swear in her books which is very refreshing. Personally, the use of "dung" and "thrice cursed" between her first trilogy and now The Petulant Princess gets to be overused for me, and could likely be avoided all together for the sake of not being repetitive.
So far, I am really thinking this book could have been made into a duet at the cost of getting more time to appreciate the characters on a deeper level rather than rush through them. There is a prologue, epilogue, and 32 chapters total. Within the epilogue and first 10 chapters we have covered the FMC's life from 6 years old to 21 and shes in these trials against her brother for her spot as ruler that she doesn't even want, but is doing it anyway against her will. It's not very cohesive to me.
I am enjoying the story on a very base line, and likely would not re-read unless we get more stories from this world at a later time and I need a refresher. I am hopeful that the story picks up in the last 50%.
I decided to DNF this title for now. On my second read through I still am struggling to connect to these characters and the story. I may pick it up again in a few months to try again because I WANT to like this story.
First thoughts are that if I had to liken this to other well-known stories it would be bits and pieces of From Blood & Ash, Throne of Glass and The Princess Bride. We have a bratty FMC that is refusing to admit she should be ruler and has to go through trials (against her wishes) of the Gods to prove her spot.
I read M.A. Frick's first books, the Fate Unraveled trilogy and was absolutely in LOVE with her writing from the first pages of Forcing Fate. I was so excited when she announced The Petulant Princess thinking I was going to fall head over heels with this story as well. As it stands, I am not loving this story like I thought I would. I'm thinking that this story might just not be for me.
If you are in her secret-not-so-secret street team Facebook page you will get updates, excerpts, and early access to her works. We got the prologue early and I was IN LOVE with the start of this book.
My struggle came then in the first chapters where everything started to fall short. I know the author was trying to "cut the fluff" of so much world building to get to the point and I think that, for me, this took away from my enjoyment.
Things were coming on like bullet points and it felt like I didn't really have the time to understand the FMC and her feelings towards the MMC but the understanding of where things would end up with them was heavily there.
The trials also feel very "Ok this is the trial, now I'm in the trial, ok the trial is done".
This author also does not swear in her books which is very refreshing. Personally, the use of "dung" and "thrice cursed" between her first trilogy and now The Petulant Princess gets to be overused for me, and could likely be avoided all together for the sake of not being repetitive.
So far, I am really thinking this book could have been made into a duet at the cost of getting more time to appreciate the characters on a deeper level rather than rush through them. There is a prologue, epilogue, and 32 chapters total. Within the epilogue and first 10 chapters we have covered the FMC's life from 6 years old to 21 and shes in these trials against her brother for her spot as ruler that she doesn't even want, but is doing it anyway against her will. It's not very cohesive to me.
I am enjoying the story on a very base line, and likely would not re-read unless we get more stories from this world at a later time and I need a refresher. I am hopeful that the story picks up in the last 50%.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2024
This was a hard read for me. I absolutely loved M.A. Frick’s debut series Forcing Fate, so I was expecting to really enjoy this as well. I enjoyed the premise of the books and the sneak peaks I got to see previously. I unfortunately think this was simply not for me.
This story was slow. It’s incredibly slow until about 60% through the book. I did not connect to any characters on a level that made me want to continue reading the story despite the slow plot moving.
I did not mind the age gap but the fact that the MMC knew the FMC when she was six and continued to see her every year after that did make this feel really odd.
The lack of context warnings was concerning as well. As someone with no triggers, I am only bothered that this could unnecessarily upset someone else who might avoid certain things in books. CW for violence, SA (of screen of a side character, but talked about/relived by the characters) should 100% be at the beginning of the book.
I really wanted to romance to be a redeeming thing in the book as well, but I honestly think it hindered this story for me. The romance seemed pretty nonexistent or a very one-sided crush for most of the book. I can’t even recall a true moment where the MMC’s feelings felt like they were returned, romantically. I fully believe he supported her in claiming the throne, but I just don’t believe he saw her as a romantic partner at any point.
This story was slow. It’s incredibly slow until about 60% through the book. I did not connect to any characters on a level that made me want to continue reading the story despite the slow plot moving.
I did not mind the age gap but the fact that the MMC knew the FMC when she was six and continued to see her every year after that did make this feel really odd.
The lack of context warnings was concerning as well. As someone with no triggers, I am only bothered that this could unnecessarily upset someone else who might avoid certain things in books. CW for violence, SA (of screen of a side character, but talked about/relived by the characters) should 100% be at the beginning of the book.
I really wanted to romance to be a redeeming thing in the book as well, but I honestly think it hindered this story for me. The romance seemed pretty nonexistent or a very one-sided crush for most of the book. I can’t even recall a true moment where the MMC’s feelings felt like they were returned, romantically. I fully believe he supported her in claiming the throne, but I just don’t believe he saw her as a romantic partner at any point.
August 4, 2024
I had a harder time with this one than I did the fates unraveled trilogy. Then again I still finished it in two days so maybe it's just in my head, but I didn't feel as emotionally attached to the characters. Also it was a struggle for the relationship to not feel like a crime. Especially how much it was hammered home that he saved her at 6 and came to see her every year on her birthday treating her like the child she was. I'm okay with age gaps but that part made it almost uncomfy
There were some dark themes and I love that, they were done tastefully but still had a major impact.
The epilogue had something hard hitting too, can't spoil that though.
It's a stand alone but leaves it open for more books to happen in this world.
There were some dark themes and I love that, they were done tastefully but still had a major impact.
The epilogue had something hard hitting too, can't spoil that though.
It's a stand alone but leaves it open for more books to happen in this world.
August 9, 2024
I loved reading this story. Ellie's growth from reluctant heir to growing into what's expected of her as a monarch. I adored how loyal she was to her friends and how this never wavered.
The romance between Ellie and Sainte was an adorable, subtle slowburn. But for me, it's the overall plot and storytelling that kept me on the edge of my seat.
This is a romantasy with no open door spice, lots of tension, and a darker edge.
•••
I received an ARC from the author. My opinions are my own.
The romance between Ellie and Sainte was an adorable, subtle slowburn. But for me, it's the overall plot and storytelling that kept me on the edge of my seat.
This is a romantasy with no open door spice, lots of tension, and a darker edge.
•••
I received an ARC from the author. My opinions are my own.
August 3, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read by M.A. Frick, and I will say I’m in awe! I will recommend this book to everyone who will listen for years to come! This will become a best seller! The characters (chefs kiss). Elspeth (El) will have you begging her to listen, falling in love with her fiery personality, and wanting nothing but the best for her. Sainte will have you in love while begging him to throw away caution for just a moment.
The world building is also perfect. It’s not so much that you wish it would just stop, it’s not so little that you can’t figure out what’s going on, but a perfect amount to help you visualize the story without dragging on. I could see the story in my head from the beginning and it was fantastic.
You will feel so much during this read! You will feel warmth and happiness, despair, love, deep sadness, rage, and hatred. It mixes well for a story you will not want to put down. The story is beautifully written. There’s a perfect balance of calm, adventure, and action. I had to know what happened next but never wanted the story to end. El and Sainte are forever in my soul.
The world building is also perfect. It’s not so much that you wish it would just stop, it’s not so little that you can’t figure out what’s going on, but a perfect amount to help you visualize the story without dragging on. I could see the story in my head from the beginning and it was fantastic.
You will feel so much during this read! You will feel warmth and happiness, despair, love, deep sadness, rage, and hatred. It mixes well for a story you will not want to put down. The story is beautifully written. There’s a perfect balance of calm, adventure, and action. I had to know what happened next but never wanted the story to end. El and Sainte are forever in my soul.
August 25, 2024
I absolutely loved this book! It’s a romantasy standalone and the plot, pacing, writing style and world building is amazing!
The petulant Princess Ellie (Elspeth) who has been lost for fifteen years, is now been forced home by Sainte, to do the Trials of the Gods, to challenge her mad brother for the throne!
It’s an age-gap romance, with slow burn and no spice. Forbidden love, Princess x bodyguard, found family, trials and gods/goddesses!!
I love the banter between the main characters, and the fact that we finally have some characters that actually have to piss on their journey 😂
The petulant Princess Ellie (Elspeth) who has been lost for fifteen years, is now been forced home by Sainte, to do the Trials of the Gods, to challenge her mad brother for the throne!
It’s an age-gap romance, with slow burn and no spice. Forbidden love, Princess x bodyguard, found family, trials and gods/goddesses!!
I love the banter between the main characters, and the fact that we finally have some characters that actually have to piss on their journey 😂
August 2, 2024
Here we are again with another fantastic book written by MA Frick! I was lucky enough to get an ARC from her and I devoured the book in I think about 4 days. (Stupid working getting the the way)
You want From Blood and Ash mixed with Elide and Lorcan vibes (Throne of Glass) this is your book!
You want From Blood and Ash mixed with Elide and Lorcan vibes (Throne of Glass) this is your book!
August 7, 2024
I absolutely loved MA Fricks Fate Unraveled trilogy, but I might be the outlier on this book unfortunately. For me it took about 50% in for it to really pick up and suck me in. I loved the prologue and then something just didn’t click for me after for bit.
I did enjoy the premise of the book and plot execution. Just wish there was a bit more world building and character development. This pertains mainly to the romance build up dialogue between Sainte & Elspeth, which didn’t happen until later in the book. I just personally felt it was forced and not fluid in their growth of a romantic slow burn relationship. I was also left with a lot of “but why” due to some scenes.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and I so love how she doesn’t use profanity. I do appreciate her writing this book and anticipate her next one.
I did enjoy the premise of the book and plot execution. Just wish there was a bit more world building and character development. This pertains mainly to the romance build up dialogue between Sainte & Elspeth, which didn’t happen until later in the book. I just personally felt it was forced and not fluid in their growth of a romantic slow burn relationship. I was also left with a lot of “but why” due to some scenes.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and I so love how she doesn’t use profanity. I do appreciate her writing this book and anticipate her next one.
September 8, 2024
Tropes:
Found Family
forced proximity
age gap
gods
Bodyguard x Princess
I really enjoyed The Petulant Princess. The 2nd born of the recently-deceased King, Elspeth is hidden from her sadistic brother. Raised on the streets, pick pocketing to survive, on her 21st birthday, Elspeth is brought back to the kingdom of Wynterborne to contest her brother's claim to the throne by the Rites of the Gods.
The FMC, Elspeth is suppose to come across as childish. But I honestly think she's handling the situation as any one would in her position. She knows nothing of the world of politics or royalty, so who wouldn't want to try to run away or have an attitude when your whole life is thrown a curve ball! I liked her. I thought she was real and she cares about those around her. She tries to do what she thinks is best.
The MMC, Sainte is the soldier who hid Elspeth all those years ago, and has come back to place her on the throne. I loved Sainte. He's a man of few words, but definitely team Elspeth. He's cinnamon roll, thru and thru. I love how he always had her back, was tempted by her flirting, but never once crossed a line, no matter how hard Elspeth tried. He kind of reminds me of Jamie Fraser of Outlander in a way.
Overall, again, I really enjoyed this story. It's a clean YA Fantasy romance with a sadistic Prince Regent and meddling gods. I recommend it lol.
Found Family
forced proximity
age gap
gods
Bodyguard x Princess
I really enjoyed The Petulant Princess. The 2nd born of the recently-deceased King, Elspeth is hidden from her sadistic brother. Raised on the streets, pick pocketing to survive, on her 21st birthday, Elspeth is brought back to the kingdom of Wynterborne to contest her brother's claim to the throne by the Rites of the Gods.
The FMC, Elspeth is suppose to come across as childish. But I honestly think she's handling the situation as any one would in her position. She knows nothing of the world of politics or royalty, so who wouldn't want to try to run away or have an attitude when your whole life is thrown a curve ball! I liked her. I thought she was real and she cares about those around her. She tries to do what she thinks is best.
The MMC, Sainte is the soldier who hid Elspeth all those years ago, and has come back to place her on the throne. I loved Sainte. He's a man of few words, but definitely team Elspeth. He's cinnamon roll, thru and thru. I love how he always had her back, was tempted by her flirting, but never once crossed a line, no matter how hard Elspeth tried. He kind of reminds me of Jamie Fraser of Outlander in a way.
Overall, again, I really enjoyed this story. It's a clean YA Fantasy romance with a sadistic Prince Regent and meddling gods. I recommend it lol.
August 31, 2024
"I would choose you, Ellie. Every time, I would choose you."
Wow, I loved The Petulant Princess by M. A. Frick. It did make me lose one night's sleep, but it was so worth it. My only "complaint" is that I wished the book was longer. I wanted more, more of Ellie and Sainte, more of their story to enjoy. I was so immersed and truly felt the emotions written on these pages.
The Petulant Princess is a standalone romantasy with an FMC who doesn't hide who she is or how she feels and a protective and devoted MMC. You will love this story if you love the bodyguard trope in fantasy. The author stated this is an age-gap romance, and she took the time to show us how the relationship progressed and all the layers.
Sainte has always been there for Ellie, guarding and safekeeping her through all the trials and tribulations, from her childhood away from her kingdom, hidden in the slums, to her battle to gain her throne. He was a constant and solid presence, even when he wasn't physically there. On the other hand, Ellie had her fair share of acting out, finding herself, and learning to accept who she is and what she must do, and I loved seeing her grow, heal, and let herself be who she is. Seeing them finally have a chance at a HEA was beautiful; the slow burn and the tension were so beautifully executed.
I loved Ellie's found family and how they loved and supported each other, even through the darkest of times. And there were dark times...
My first encounter with M. A. Frick's work, The Petulant Princess, was a revelation. I was thrilled to read this beautiful ARC, and I can't wait for you to experience it. This book is a gem, and I'm excited for you to discover its beauty!
The Petulant Princess will gift you
- a standalone romantasy
- age-gap romance
- bodyguard trope
- forbidden love
- forced proximity
- found family
- HEA
and a beautiful tale of love, devotion, hard choices, and a grand adventure like no other!
Wow, I loved The Petulant Princess by M. A. Frick. It did make me lose one night's sleep, but it was so worth it. My only "complaint" is that I wished the book was longer. I wanted more, more of Ellie and Sainte, more of their story to enjoy. I was so immersed and truly felt the emotions written on these pages.
The Petulant Princess is a standalone romantasy with an FMC who doesn't hide who she is or how she feels and a protective and devoted MMC. You will love this story if you love the bodyguard trope in fantasy. The author stated this is an age-gap romance, and she took the time to show us how the relationship progressed and all the layers.
Sainte has always been there for Ellie, guarding and safekeeping her through all the trials and tribulations, from her childhood away from her kingdom, hidden in the slums, to her battle to gain her throne. He was a constant and solid presence, even when he wasn't physically there. On the other hand, Ellie had her fair share of acting out, finding herself, and learning to accept who she is and what she must do, and I loved seeing her grow, heal, and let herself be who she is. Seeing them finally have a chance at a HEA was beautiful; the slow burn and the tension were so beautifully executed.
I loved Ellie's found family and how they loved and supported each other, even through the darkest of times. And there were dark times...
My first encounter with M. A. Frick's work, The Petulant Princess, was a revelation. I was thrilled to read this beautiful ARC, and I can't wait for you to experience it. This book is a gem, and I'm excited for you to discover its beauty!
The Petulant Princess will gift you
- a standalone romantasy
- age-gap romance
- bodyguard trope
- forbidden love
- forced proximity
- found family
- HEA
and a beautiful tale of love, devotion, hard choices, and a grand adventure like no other!
August 19, 2024
Great MCs 💚
I’m not sure what it is about M.A. Frick’s writing but her books are hard to put down.
Elspeth is so sassy and stubborn. I love it! I really liked her slowly gaining confidence in her ability to be the royal heir that she was. Sainte is quiet but he’s all in. He fully believed in Elspeth. He would do anything for her and we love a man with that kind of devotion.
This is an age gap so if that’s not your thing then look out. There’s no spice. The tension is 🤌🏻 though. I love it when a little forehead kiss can make you all giddy and blush.
I really had a great time reading this. The trials and the gods were really interesting and fun. Wynterborne felt real. I really liked this world.
This is a really great standalone if you like trials with gods and a fight for the throne. There are a few dark things that happen but they’re either off page or mostly tame. The epilogue was also juicy and left potential for future books!
I’m not sure what it is about M.A. Frick’s writing but her books are hard to put down.
Elspeth is so sassy and stubborn. I love it! I really liked her slowly gaining confidence in her ability to be the royal heir that she was. Sainte is quiet but he’s all in. He fully believed in Elspeth. He would do anything for her and we love a man with that kind of devotion.
This is an age gap so if that’s not your thing then look out. There’s no spice. The tension is 🤌🏻 though. I love it when a little forehead kiss can make you all giddy and blush.
I really had a great time reading this. The trials and the gods were really interesting and fun. Wynterborne felt real. I really liked this world.
This is a really great standalone if you like trials with gods and a fight for the throne. There are a few dark things that happen but they’re either off page or mostly tame. The epilogue was also juicy and left potential for future books!
September 4, 2024
This is how you write a petulant character! So often, they are annoying and for me, take away from the story. This was written so well and I absolutely loved the characters. I loved the plot of this book, the trials and the gods. There is humor and banter amongst the characters. This was a very enjoyable read!
September 8, 2024
I really enjoyed this story. I was captivated from the start. Great strong characters.
El a princess turned street rat, surviving on pick pocketing, Who has to return to be a princess an challenge her psychotic brother for the throne, which results in 3 challenges called rites of the gods.
There is romance, action and suspense, please be aware there is some dark parts within the storyline.
El a princess turned street rat, surviving on pick pocketing, Who has to return to be a princess an challenge her psychotic brother for the throne, which results in 3 challenges called rites of the gods.
There is romance, action and suspense, please be aware there is some dark parts within the storyline.
August 19, 2024
This gem left me with a massive book hangover.
Elspeth. She is easily one of my favorite characters in a book, ever. She's sassy and tough but still human enough to feel real. She has flaws, and I loved her for them.
Sainte is hot. Enough said. But really, I found his embarrassment from her attention so endearing. He's a truly good man. *Swoon*
Heads up - this romantasy HAS ZERO SPICE. Mkay? Lots of steam and teasing, but no deed doing. That said, read it. Even this spicy lover didn't need those to enjoy this book thoroughly.
If you love age gaps, tough women, and storylines with trials... Why are you reading this review? Just get it!
Side note: no there is an off-page SA of a side character who suffers quite badly. It took me by surprise, and it's handled pretty well, but I wanted to warn ya just in case.
So - go read it already!!!!!!
Elspeth. She is easily one of my favorite characters in a book, ever. She's sassy and tough but still human enough to feel real. She has flaws, and I loved her for them.
Sainte is hot. Enough said. But really, I found his embarrassment from her attention so endearing. He's a truly good man. *Swoon*
Heads up - this romantasy HAS ZERO SPICE. Mkay? Lots of steam and teasing, but no deed doing. That said, read it. Even this spicy lover didn't need those to enjoy this book thoroughly.
If you love age gaps, tough women, and storylines with trials... Why are you reading this review? Just get it!
Side note: no there is an off-page SA of a side character who suffers quite badly. It took me by surprise, and it's handled pretty well, but I wanted to warn ya just in case.
So - go read it already!!!!!!
August 9, 2024
Sainte and Elspeth, loved them. The world building is so easy to follow. You aren’t thrown a whole world within the first few chapters. The characters growth was amazing. I was hoping for more interactions from Sainte and Elspeth. However their story is fun to follow. Loved reading this book!
August 4, 2024
This is a decent read and really starts to take off in the second half of the book. It’s entertaining and witty, and the side characters really enhance the story. Ellie took quite a while to grow on me as a character, but she got there.
My problem with this book is that it gave me the ick factor so fast and hard with the romance between Ellie and Sainte. Sainte rescued her as a CHILD (6 years old) and then grew to have romantic feelings for her over the years. She was a literal child and minor for 90% of their time together. I was hoping the romance would continue into the realm of a childhood crush and evolve into more of an adoration or respect as Ellie went about her character development. Alas, it did not. Just grateful there was no physical relation described or it would have been an instant DNF for me.
My problem with this book is that it gave me the ick factor so fast and hard with the romance between Ellie and Sainte. Sainte rescued her as a CHILD (6 years old) and then grew to have romantic feelings for her over the years. She was a literal child and minor for 90% of their time together. I was hoping the romance would continue into the realm of a childhood crush and evolve into more of an adoration or respect as Ellie went about her character development. Alas, it did not. Just grateful there was no physical relation described or it would have been an instant DNF for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2024
Standalone Fantasy adventure with a Feisty FMC who isn't afraid to speak her mind, and a protective and devoted MMC.
Elspeth is a lost Princess, hidden away for years for her protection, but now she's being forced to go home and confront her vindictive brother to try and claim a throne she doesn't want.
She must endure deathly trials to win the God's favour, survive assassination attempts, navigate court politics, and most importantly - resist her feelings for her long term crush, bodyguard, saviour, and source of her teenage heartbreak - Sainte.
Whilst there is lots of tension and a longing slow burn, there is limited romance as instead it focuses on the bond shared, and fulfilling destiny.
The trials faced are harsh, the people she loves suffer greatly, but Elspeth must endure for the sake of her people against her ruthless and cruel Brother.
If you want a book with a despicable villain, good v evil dire stakes, a broody, loyal and protective MMC, and a feisty FMC with street rat vibes that grows into a Queen, this is the book for you.
🗡️ "That was the first day I realized I had a crush on my saviour"
🗡️ "Sainte, I would have given you anything if you had stayed - my heart, my crown, my life. All of it was yours"
🗡️ "It was then that I fully grasped what I was up against. A monster"
🗡️ "You have never loved someone so much that seeing them in pain breaks you in two- all logic and reason vanishes"
🗡️"You test me, rile me. You're an itch I can't scratch. Elspeth, you're a fire in my chest that cannot be tamed"
🗡️"No one ever lived up to the feeling you gave me when I dreamt of you"
Elspeth is a lost Princess, hidden away for years for her protection, but now she's being forced to go home and confront her vindictive brother to try and claim a throne she doesn't want.
She must endure deathly trials to win the God's favour, survive assassination attempts, navigate court politics, and most importantly - resist her feelings for her long term crush, bodyguard, saviour, and source of her teenage heartbreak - Sainte.
Whilst there is lots of tension and a longing slow burn, there is limited romance as instead it focuses on the bond shared, and fulfilling destiny.
The trials faced are harsh, the people she loves suffer greatly, but Elspeth must endure for the sake of her people against her ruthless and cruel Brother.
If you want a book with a despicable villain, good v evil dire stakes, a broody, loyal and protective MMC, and a feisty FMC with street rat vibes that grows into a Queen, this is the book for you.
🗡️ "That was the first day I realized I had a crush on my saviour"
🗡️ "Sainte, I would have given you anything if you had stayed - my heart, my crown, my life. All of it was yours"
🗡️ "It was then that I fully grasped what I was up against. A monster"
🗡️ "You have never loved someone so much that seeing them in pain breaks you in two- all logic and reason vanishes"
🗡️"You test me, rile me. You're an itch I can't scratch. Elspeth, you're a fire in my chest that cannot be tamed"
🗡️"No one ever lived up to the feeling you gave me when I dreamt of you"
August 18, 2024
Elspeth is a Princess… well was a Princess. Sainte her protective kings guard took her from the castle to the slums. To protect her from her murderous brother. Elspeth has made the best of living in the slums. Sainte has visited her each birthday. This year is different, Elspeth feels different and Sainte needs her help. Elspeth needs to return to her kingdom and prevent her brother from taking the throne.
I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read it again. I liked the pacing of the plot and the tension. This was a definite slow burn. I couldn’t put the book down! There were some tough topics covered but overall a great romantsy.
I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read it again. I liked the pacing of the plot and the tension. This was a definite slow burn. I couldn’t put the book down! There were some tough topics covered but overall a great romantsy.
August 21, 2024
(Even) longer review than usual 😅😅😅 Buckle up! It's 4⭐ for me, a blend of things I did and didn't like, hence the dissertation following.
For a short impression, I'd say the book's first half was my favorite. The Wynterborne arc had some highs for me, but also some lows.
I would like to get these out of the way first.
🐝 Sadly, I didn't "feel" the relationship between Sainte and Elspeth. I had the impression El's feelings evolved little over the book: she is physically attracted to Sainte, and trusts him above anyone. seemed to have little impact on her feelings, which I found... odd? I wish there were a conversation between them to clarify this point.
Between him being stoic and a bodyguard (thus bound by orders, and unable to act as he wishes), Sainte was really hard for me to read. His reactions towards Elspeth confused me for most of the book.
🐝 I did not mind the age gap between the protagonists, but I did mind how early their relationship starts. In the prologue, a 11-year-old El states she "has a crush" on a grown man, which I read as something romantic and it made me uncomfortable. Due to my inability to read Sainte, I couldn't infer when his affection towards El turned to attraction. I wish it were stated explicitly: for the majority of the time Sainte knows El, she is literally a child. The possibility of him being attracted to her at such early age unsettled me.
🐝 I found the ending a little rushed.
Now, to the good stuff!
💖 I loved that it was a stand alone. I have been reading so many series of late! It's refreshing to have a story concluded on its own. And in a single book, the author packed so much plot, world & character building!
💖 Despite not feeling invested in the romance, the plot carried the book for me, which I find impressive. Like in the Fate Unraveled trilogy, the author knows how to balance the story and the romance to perfection.
💖 Loved the pantheon in Wynterborne, and its role in the story's progression. I wanted to see more gods! But I understand only so much can fit in one book. Also loved the world building, though more in Tilamuik. I would have liked to see more of the commoners' life in Wynterborne, and more interaction between El and them. She grows to care about them as a queen, but... Why? It felt a little... Artificial?
💖 Early-book El cracked me up. Her inner voice was snappy and colorful and she made me laugh non stop. Call me silly, I feel that voice got lost in the second half, maybe because the plot takes the priority over her introspection, but I missed it.
I also liked how in the beginning Sainte & El are both right and wrong at once at calling each other selfish. I liked the grey in that, and I wish it would have stayed a theme for the rest of the book.
💖The plot kept me on the edge of my seat. There are so many twists and turns, and El & friends can't catch a breath. Adastrus is a formidable villain! Loved loved loved the politics and intrigues a la Game of Throne. Anderz was one of my favorite characters.
I won't compare it to the Fate Unraveled trilogy because they are very different in my opinion... But both works are worth the read and the hype!
For a short impression, I'd say the book's first half was my favorite. The Wynterborne arc had some highs for me, but also some lows.
I would like to get these out of the way first.
🐝 Sadly, I didn't "feel" the relationship between Sainte and Elspeth. I had the impression El's feelings evolved little over the book: she is physically attracted to Sainte, and trusts him above anyone. seemed to have little impact on her feelings, which I found... odd? I wish there were a conversation between them to clarify this point.
Between him being stoic and a bodyguard (thus bound by orders, and unable to act as he wishes), Sainte was really hard for me to read. His reactions towards Elspeth confused me for most of the book.
🐝 I did not mind the age gap between the protagonists, but I did mind how early their relationship starts. In the prologue, a 11-year-old El states she "has a crush" on a grown man, which I read as something romantic and it made me uncomfortable. Due to my inability to read Sainte, I couldn't infer when his affection towards El turned to attraction. I wish it were stated explicitly: for the majority of the time Sainte knows El, she is literally a child. The possibility of him being attracted to her at such early age unsettled me.
🐝 I found the ending a little rushed.
Now, to the good stuff!
💖 I loved that it was a stand alone. I have been reading so many series of late! It's refreshing to have a story concluded on its own. And in a single book, the author packed so much plot, world & character building!
💖 Despite not feeling invested in the romance, the plot carried the book for me, which I find impressive. Like in the Fate Unraveled trilogy, the author knows how to balance the story and the romance to perfection.
💖 Loved the pantheon in Wynterborne, and its role in the story's progression. I wanted to see more gods! But I understand only so much can fit in one book. Also loved the world building, though more in Tilamuik. I would have liked to see more of the commoners' life in Wynterborne, and more interaction between El and them. She grows to care about them as a queen, but... Why? It felt a little... Artificial?
💖 Early-book El cracked me up. Her inner voice was snappy and colorful and she made me laugh non stop. Call me silly, I feel that voice got lost in the second half, maybe because the plot takes the priority over her introspection, but I missed it.
I also liked how in the beginning Sainte & El are both right and wrong at once at calling each other selfish. I liked the grey in that, and I wish it would have stayed a theme for the rest of the book.
💖The plot kept me on the edge of my seat. There are so many twists and turns, and El & friends can't catch a breath. Adastrus is a formidable villain! Loved loved loved the politics and intrigues a la Game of Throne. Anderz was one of my favorite characters.
I won't compare it to the Fate Unraveled trilogy because they are very different in my opinion... But both works are worth the read and the hype!
August 8, 2024
This was the first book written by M. A. Frick that I've had the pleasure of reading, and I absolutely devoured it! What a ride.
The Petulant Princess, which is very aptly titled, is the story of a lost princess who wishes to be anything but... Who must return to her kingdom to stand against her tyrant brother who is utterly man and who only wants one thing - her head. Thrown into crazy politics and rites which will determine her worth, Elspeth must learn to navigate her new world whilst leaning on the one constant she's had in her life - her saviour, her warrior, her love, Sainte.
This book is the perfect mix of high fantasy, adventure, romance and norse god style rites. It has found family, comedy, heartache, trauma and so much more. Frick managed to unravel a fantastic story that has left me wanting more, eager to see what will happen next. We watch as our heroine grows from a young girl into a brave, empowering young woman who would do the absolute most for those that are important to her. Even if it means putting herself in harm's way.
The slow burn romance has left me yearning for more. The whole touch her and die feels is always going to get to me, I just cannot resist. Admittedly, I'd like to know Sainte's actual age because there's some slight discomfort at not knowing that, but knowing he rescued her as a child and essentially watched her grow up - but I like to imagine he was a very very young guard in the beginning.
The friendship/family vibes between Elspeth, Lyanna and Eythan tugged at my heart strings and I absolutely adored their dynamics. They deserve the absolute world.
I enjoyed all the characters, even the crazy Prince Regent who gave me those real - love to hate him vibes as his character was so terrifically written.
I look forward to finding out what happens next?? I'll definitely be checking out her other books!
The Petulant Princess, which is very aptly titled, is the story of a lost princess who wishes to be anything but... Who must return to her kingdom to stand against her tyrant brother who is utterly man and who only wants one thing - her head. Thrown into crazy politics and rites which will determine her worth, Elspeth must learn to navigate her new world whilst leaning on the one constant she's had in her life - her saviour, her warrior, her love, Sainte.
This book is the perfect mix of high fantasy, adventure, romance and norse god style rites. It has found family, comedy, heartache, trauma and so much more. Frick managed to unravel a fantastic story that has left me wanting more, eager to see what will happen next. We watch as our heroine grows from a young girl into a brave, empowering young woman who would do the absolute most for those that are important to her. Even if it means putting herself in harm's way.
The slow burn romance has left me yearning for more. The whole touch her and die feels is always going to get to me, I just cannot resist. Admittedly, I'd like to know Sainte's actual age because there's some slight discomfort at not knowing that, but knowing he rescued her as a child and essentially watched her grow up - but I like to imagine he was a very very young guard in the beginning.
The friendship/family vibes between Elspeth, Lyanna and Eythan tugged at my heart strings and I absolutely adored their dynamics. They deserve the absolute world.
I enjoyed all the characters, even the crazy Prince Regent who gave me those real - love to hate him vibes as his character was so terrifically written.
I look forward to finding out what happens next?? I'll definitely be checking out her other books!
August 10, 2024
**5-Star Review of "Petulant Princess"**
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Petulant Princess" is nothing short of an enchanting literary tapestry that weaves together intrigue, lush world-building, and unforgettable characters. From the moment I plunged into its pages, I was completely hooked—and that’s no hyperbole! The book unfolds at a perfect, leisurely pace that allows the plot to bloom like a flower under the sun, and tension that kept me eagerly turning pages.
At the heart of the story is a deliciously flawed yet relatable petulant FMC. She brims with wit and sass, and her journey of growth and self-discovery is both engaging and realistic. Watching her navigate her tumultuous life in a world filled with gods and wicked traps made me root for her at every turn. Pairing her with a formidable yet charming hero adds an extra layer of tension and romance to the slow burn that I just couldn't get enough of.
The villain, who stirs chaos with every move, manipulating circumstances to accomplish their sinister machinations. Despite their seemingly overpowering presence, the stakes are artfully balanced, and the heroes—especially our protagonist—rise to every occasion with cleverness and grit.
What impressed me most was how seamlessly the author intertwined themes of power, morality, and personal agency within this richly-crafted fantasy realm. The gods play a pivotal part not merely as a backdrop, but as integral players in the character’s fates, contributing depth and a sense of wonder to the narrative.
Overall, "Petulant Princess" is a stellar read for anyone who delights in slow-burn tension, morally complex characters, and an intricately plotted storyline. This enchanting novel held my rapt attention from the very first page, and I can guarantee it’ll stay with you long after the last sentence is read. If you’re seeking an adventure that combines drama, romance, and wit in a world where power can shift in moments, look no further—this book is a true gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Petulant Princess" is nothing short of an enchanting literary tapestry that weaves together intrigue, lush world-building, and unforgettable characters. From the moment I plunged into its pages, I was completely hooked—and that’s no hyperbole! The book unfolds at a perfect, leisurely pace that allows the plot to bloom like a flower under the sun, and tension that kept me eagerly turning pages.
At the heart of the story is a deliciously flawed yet relatable petulant FMC. She brims with wit and sass, and her journey of growth and self-discovery is both engaging and realistic. Watching her navigate her tumultuous life in a world filled with gods and wicked traps made me root for her at every turn. Pairing her with a formidable yet charming hero adds an extra layer of tension and romance to the slow burn that I just couldn't get enough of.
The villain, who stirs chaos with every move, manipulating circumstances to accomplish their sinister machinations. Despite their seemingly overpowering presence, the stakes are artfully balanced, and the heroes—especially our protagonist—rise to every occasion with cleverness and grit.
What impressed me most was how seamlessly the author intertwined themes of power, morality, and personal agency within this richly-crafted fantasy realm. The gods play a pivotal part not merely as a backdrop, but as integral players in the character’s fates, contributing depth and a sense of wonder to the narrative.
Overall, "Petulant Princess" is a stellar read for anyone who delights in slow-burn tension, morally complex characters, and an intricately plotted storyline. This enchanting novel held my rapt attention from the very first page, and I can guarantee it’ll stay with you long after the last sentence is read. If you’re seeking an adventure that combines drama, romance, and wit in a world where power can shift in moments, look no further—this book is a true gem!
August 13, 2024
3.75⭐
The Petulant Princess follows Elspeth, the "lost" princess of Wynterborne, on her journey back to her homeland, where she may or may not be the gods' favored to take the throne.
Having read Frick's Fate Trilogy, I had high expectations for this book. Initially, I struggled with the pacing in the first third, but once the story picked up, it became highly engaging. My main complaint is that the book wasn’t long enough. Frick's writing is so captivating when it hits its stride that I wanted to throw my Kindle at the wall when I reached the last page. I have so many more questions! Like how many times was Adastrus dropped on his head as a child to make him like this?!
My favorite parts of the book involved the ancillary characters. I was eager to learn more about them so it’s exciting to hear that there may be up to four more books set in this world. I’m particularly interested in learning more about the magic, the witches, the mysterious woman with the "elongated and elegantly curled" ears, and the Dire Wolf! The gods and world-building have immense potential, and I wanted to see more of that explored in this book. I was also a bit let down with the romance, because I know that Frick can write a frustratingly good slow burn romance and this felt a bit rushed towards the end.
Overall, I enjoyed this book quite a bit and finished the second half in one sitting. Frick has a knack for writing very real, vulnerable characters who grow and develop with the story. I look forward to seeing what else Frick has up her sleeve!
The Petulant Princess follows Elspeth, the "lost" princess of Wynterborne, on her journey back to her homeland, where she may or may not be the gods' favored to take the throne.
Having read Frick's Fate Trilogy, I had high expectations for this book. Initially, I struggled with the pacing in the first third, but once the story picked up, it became highly engaging. My main complaint is that the book wasn’t long enough. Frick's writing is so captivating when it hits its stride that I wanted to throw my Kindle at the wall when I reached the last page. I have so many more questions! Like how many times was Adastrus dropped on his head as a child to make him like this?!
My favorite parts of the book involved the ancillary characters. I was eager to learn more about them so it’s exciting to hear that there may be up to four more books set in this world. I’m particularly interested in learning more about the magic, the witches, the mysterious woman with the "elongated and elegantly curled" ears, and the Dire Wolf! The gods and world-building have immense potential, and I wanted to see more of that explored in this book. I was also a bit let down with the romance, because I know that Frick can write a frustratingly good slow burn romance and this felt a bit rushed towards the end.
Overall, I enjoyed this book quite a bit and finished the second half in one sitting. Frick has a knack for writing very real, vulnerable characters who grow and develop with the story. I look forward to seeing what else Frick has up her sleeve!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 448 reviews