The Princess of Dreams

The Royals of Acuniel #5

by Ashton E. Dorow

For eight years, Princess Matilda of Acuniel has carried a heavy secret–her dreams often reveal the future, warning of death or danger. Fearful of this strange gift, Tillie does her best to bury it, instead focusing her energy on her two greatest desires: one, fighting alongside her brothers in battle, and two, winning the heart of Lord Phillip of Dallin. To her everlasting frustration, however, neither desire seems likely to happen. Her father will never consent to her being a soldier, and Phillip has yet to see her as anything other than the little girl he’s always known.

As Acuniel celebrates its three-hundredth birthday, Tillie’s unwanted gift resurfaces in a chilling way. Though she’s remained silent all this time, letting this particular tragedy unfold without trying to stop it is unthinkable.

Her intervention begins a series of events that will reveal enemies both old and new, and thrust Acuniel into a war that could change the course of its history forever. Tillie yet has a role to play in all of it–but is it the role she so desires? Or are some dreams destined to remain forever out of reach?

"The Princess of Dreams" is a loose retelling of the Biblical story of Deborah, and the final book in The Royals of Acuniel series.

Genres: Romance, Medieval, Fantasy

Paperback

Published November 18, 2025

About the author

Ashton has loved books for as long as she can remember, and at age fourteen, that love became a passion when she began writing her own novels. She currently resides in Conroe, TX with her real-life prince–AKA her husband, Austin. When not writing, Ashton can be found reading, spending time with family, serving at the church she’s attended since childhood, or drinking copious amounts of chai tea. Her greatest desire as a writer is to point readers to the ultimate Author—Jesus.

Reviews

[Ashton Dorow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can hardly believe this series has reached its end! It’s so bittersweet saying goodbye to this story world and these characters who have been in my life for the past 11 years. I can’t wait for you to read Tillie and Phillip’s love story, set against an epic backdrop of conspiracy and war (because it wouldn’t be one of my books without some action in it, right? 😆😂)! Actually, “some” action isn’t quite right. This book has more action sequences, fight scenes, and high-stakes moments than any book in the series—and it starts early, so buckle up LOL.

Here’s a bit more of what you can expect:
- A feisty, determined heroine who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it
- A hero searching for his place in the world
- Friends to lovers
- She falls first
- Age gap
- Forced proximity
- Strong family relationships (Tillie’s relationship with her father is my fave!)
- Lots of action, as previously mentioned
- My favorite epilogue of any book in the series 🥹❤️

Age range: appropriate for older teens and up (I think it would be fine for younger teens too, depending on your content preferences)

Content warnings: Outside of the fight scenes/violence and one instance of a threatened sexual assault, I don’t believe there’s anything else to warn about with this one. There are a couple kissing scenes, but nothing overly descriptive.

[Heather Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect end to the series! It twisted in a way I wasn't expecting, but it was just right. I'm going to miss these characters!

[Cindy aka "The Book Fairy" · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another tremendous book in the series! The spiritual elements were done wonderfully throughout as the story was loosely based upon another Biblical character; the warrior Deborah. The setting was within a royal family so the protocols were to be expected for morality and respect back within that era especially. The typical young adult lack of communication with a couple being fearful to "express their feelings in case the other didn't view them that way being friends all along" makes me roll my eyes at this age of my life and in this day and age but quite natural back centuries ago :)

However, that's just me of course when it comes to romance!ha......a marvelous conclusion to this series with such loving and Godly families throughout, realistic enough villians as they always exist of course. Their faith and admirable relationships, insights into life, and satisfying stories are all excellent aspects for a true faith filled, Christian series suitable for anyone really. I loved the earlier ones based upon other Bible characters as Esther, Ruth, and a beloved Prodigal son retelling to name a few. I am so impressed with this author:)

[Katja Labonté · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars. Oh, my heart. I've been eyeing this series for a while, but never read any of the stories until I joined the launch team for this final book. And let me tell you, I am so excited to go back and read the entire collection!!

Tillie and Philip were lovely characters. I can't say I related to either of them, but somehow that didn't bother me at all! I enjoyed them both and their storylines intrigued me equally. Though I spent some time frustrated by their "the other can't possibly love me" languishing, it didn't last long enough or get annoying enough for me to really be ticked off, and their romance ended up really sweet.

All the other characters added such fun elements as well—I really am so excited to get to know them all—and I really quite enjoyed setting. Often christian kingdom fantasy downplays or removes the brutal aspect of medieval life, but this book was actually quite matter-of-fact about war, execution, torture, and other parts of life. While it took me by surprise, I didn't mind, and I thought it added a lot to the setting.

The plot kept me ridiculously invested all the way to the final chapter. I enjoyed catching on the elements reimagining Deborah the Prophetess, too. I was a little more hesitant about the whole God-speaking-through-dreams part, as well as one or two similar things I'm not sure I agree with theologically, but in a fantasy setting I don't mind. The writing style was good and never jerked me out of the setting, and I really liked the message about the power of prayer, and about surrendering one's dreams. The queen's final line left me in tears, and remained my favourite quote of the book:

“Go with God, my girl, and enjoy every moment of this life He has given you.”

Content: A few mentions of relieving oneself; some slightly detailed kisses; physical attraction; a few mentions of torturing enemies for information; slightly gory fighting; mention of drawing and quartering; [TW violence] Philip gouges an enemy's eye out.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*

[Daughter Of Athena]

I’ve only read The Peasant Queen, but I’m working my way through the series! Currently on The Love of a Princess and I hope to read the rest of this series during the school year! Can’t wait for this book!

[Hannah Barclay · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED IT. Such a good finale to the series. The stakes were so much higher, the action better and a very wholesome and unique romance 🤍
Got it on release day and finished it all the same day!

[Lexi T. Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nooooo! 😩 I am not ready for this book to be over!

This is one of the best fantasies I have read, non-magical for those who are wondering.

I’m not ready to say goodbye to the series either, but this is the last book?! 😂 I confess I haven’t read the rest of the series yet, but I bought them all and will be reading them. I still feel sad this is the last. 🥲

If your biblical vibe is Deborah and Jael, and your historical/historical fiction vibe is Joan of Arc and Ivanhoe . . .

Then you will love this.

Sweet, clean romance; kisses-only/fade-to-black; healthy relationships instead of dark, sketchy romance.

Very clearly Christian. I love how dedicated the entire main cast is to Christ. 🥹

Content warnings: mostly violence/war violence, moderately graphic. Brief allusions to/threats of SA. Brief allusions to su!c!dal thoughts (potentially attempted su!c!de? I haven’t read that book yet) from one of the other books in the series.

[Talita Adendorff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was bittersweet because even though I did not want to put it down, it was so good, I didn't want it to end, either, because that meant saying goodbye to the Royals of Acuniel.

This whole series was incredible from beginning to end, and it was with much anticipation that I started the book dedicated to the youngest sibling, Tillie, the princess of dreams. In book 4, I had an inkling who her love interest would be, and I wasn't disappointed, but there were a few times I felt like shaking both of them so that they could wake up and declare their love.

Anyways, The Princess of Dreams has it all: romance, action, suspense, prophetic dreams, spiritual insight, humorous moments, and more. It also brings together all the characters from the previous books, providing a nice catch-up of everyone's lives, making it a mini epilogue of books 1 to 4. It is a beautiful, clean medieval romance that will make you go, just one more chapter, all the way to the end.

I highly recommend reading it, and if you haven't read the rest of the series, I do recommend starting with The Peasant Queen. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

I was given an early copy by the author, but the views and opinions are my own, and I was privileged to be on the launch team for this amazing book.

[Hannah McKinnies · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Princess of Dreams is a breathtaking conclusion to the five-book saga set in the kingdom of Acuniel. This final installment follows Tillie, the youngest member of the royal family, as she steps into her long-awaited role in the kingdom’s affairs. Eager and determined, Tillie brings a fresh perspective—and a secret gift that offers glimpses into the future.
This novel delivers everything fans have come to love: thrilling action, tender romance, deep-rooted friendships, and the warmth of close family bonds. The stakes are high, the emotions run deep, and the storytelling is as rich as ever.
While The Princess of Dreams can be enjoyed as a standalone, it also serves as a deeply satisfying farewell to the series. It gave me the chance to reconnect with beloved characters from earlier books and brought the journey full circle in the most rewarding way.
I was hoping for an emotional experience that matched the previous book—and this one exceeded my expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend it to both longtime fans and new readers alike.

[Hopefulwords · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has so much heart! I loved it! ❤️ The sweet, slow burn as the main characters become more than friends is comparable to chocolate — soooo good! 🤭 However, what stands out the most is the Faith element, highlighting that it’s not about what looks right to us — we are to seek Him in everything.

There are exciting twists and turns in this loose Deborah (from the Bible) retelling, and it frequently made me smile. King Rowan takes on an unexpected role, there are side characters that instantly made me wish they have their own books, and truly, Tillie and Phillip’s story is just so charming 🫠

I also appreciated how this book doesn’t shy away from the h*rrors of war. It’s devastating with a very high cost, making this element bittersweet — it’s heartbreaking, yet it’s also a reminder to be grateful for what we have in our lives.

Overall, this book was thoroughly enjoyable! ❤️ As this series concludes with this book, I’m left with the desire to go back and start with the first book all over again ⚔️🛡️

Content:
-Christian Historical Fiction
-Strong Faith Themes
-Intimacy level: Mostly Kisses Only | Fade to black between a married couple
-Violence
-Language: No profanity

*I received a complimentary eARC from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Katie Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book! I loved it so much, but am sad to see this series come to a close. 🥹 Tillie has been a fun character throughout the other books, so reading her story was a treat, especially with all of the previous main characters showing up. I thought her prophetic dreams were really cool, and liked how it brought a sense of doom whenever one came because she doesn’t know when what she saw will happen. Her and Phillip’s relationship was so sweet, frustrating (the guy certainly took his time figuring his feelings for her lol), and perfect for them. The action scenes were well written as usual, and there were several moments where I wasn’t sure if the characters would come out unscathed or not. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good medieval story of love, faith, and relinquishing your dreams to God to work His will through. 😍

/I received an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own/

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Stunning✨

The Princess of Dreams sweeps you back into the world of Acuniel for a final adventure of love, hope, faith and trust. Matilda and Phillip’s stories weave together in this epic tale that you can’t help but root for!

This was a beautiful, tearjerker story that ends off the series in the best way! I’m sad to say goodbye to these characters but I will definitely come back for a reread!


*I received an e-arc from the author; all opinions are my own*

[Jeanti Steenkamp · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Princess of Dreams brings The Royals of Acuniel series to a close with a retelling of Deborah’s story. Princess Tillie has wrestled with prophetic dreams for years, preferring to focus on her desire to fight in battle and win Lord Phillip’s heart—both of which seem frustratingly out of reach.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t believe it’s the final installment in the series. The character development was strong, particularly watching Tillie struggle with accepting a gift she never wanted while pursuing dreams that feel impossible. It was wonderful to reconnect with familiar faces from earlier books in the series, seeing how the royal family of Acuniel has grown and changed over time.

Dorow weaves faith and purpose into this medieval romance, exploring what it means to surrender personal ambitions when called to a greater destiny. Tillie’s journey from reluctant prophet to warrior of a different kind is engaging, reminding us that sometimes the path we’re meant to walk looks nothing like the one we imagined.

For fans who have followed the series from The Peasant Queen onward, The Princess of Dreams delivers a satisfying conclusion to the world of Acuniel.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Barbara Keigher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful!
I loved the Christian themes!!!
( and the story sort of based on the Biblical Deborah)

I was at times beginning to fear ,
that the two main characters,
would never express their love
and get married...

But I knew it had to happen!!

( or I would have given this a 3 because...
well.... it HAD to happen
or
I would not have been happy LOL)

But no fear, the author did a great job!

But... where is her next series?
Sigh!!!

It's always wait!
wait!!
wai!!!

Why do they not hear me
yelling
hurry, hurry, hurry??

I would love to read whatever she writes next!!
Beautiful!

[Alexis Pounds · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s like the end of an era!

This book was so bittersweet to read. I’ve read all 5 books of this series and to see it come to an end was heartbreaking but in a good way!! These books have been LIFE changing as a reader. This last book in particular is definitely my favorite. TPD leaves you on your toes the whole time and takes you on an emotional roller coaster. Do yourself a favor and read TPD but don’t forget about the other 4 books!!

[Katie Schelemberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating story!

I read this book as slowly as I could only because I knew it is the last book in the series and I wasn't ready to say goodbye to the characters. This book had me nearly crying one minute, biting my nails anxiously the next, and squealing and kicking my feet right after. The battle scenes were intense and beautifully written, and the slow burn romance was so sweet, author wrapped up everyone's stories in a very satisfying way too! Will reread this book multiple times in the future I'm sure!

[Doyle E DeLong Jr · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing!

I loved every part of this book! I hope the author will write a whole other series just like this!

[Isabelle Gierman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a wonderful cap to a beautiful series! You won't be disappointed with this beautiful romantic adventure!

[Emily Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!!!! I love this book! I literally couldn’t put it down,there was so many plots twists for example i didn’t think at first that Philip and Tilly would ever confess their love for each other but when they did I literally leaped for joy!😭 Another thing I will say is that I believe Ashton wrote this book about me even though she didn’t, like Tilly is exactly like me.Tilly is a tomboy as am I ,but she also likes to dress up which is also like me. Tilly also has dreams that come to pass but I’ve only had one dream that has come to life. Tilly and I are also the same with the guy we like…..Philip is 6 years older than her and my crush,I won’t give his name lol 😂, is three years older than me and Philip and Tilly were longtime friends as am my crush and I. But enough said, i want to say to Ashton that this book is probably the best one of all the series and it truly touched my life! 🤍

[Sara Hickman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Princess of Dreams is the conclusion of the Royals of Acuniel series. Each of these books is a more modern retelling of a Biblical story. This novel tells the story of Tillie using the judge Deborah. There is so much heartache, wisdom, banter, and sacrifice in this novel. You’ll fall in love with Tillie and Phillip just like I did.

[Chapters With Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the last of a series of medieval royals. They are all loose Biblical retellings that somehow don’t feel like it as they retain a life and story of their own. This action packed story is a loose retelling of Deborah (although it has Joan of Arc vibes as well!). Packed with action, family relationships, and a romance this story had me intrigued up to the end! I’m sad to see the end of the Royals and will be rereading them again!
💖Spice: kisses only.
‼️Swearing: none
⚠️Triggers: war, some familial conflict, and anxiety

[D.M. Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Princess of Dreams by Ashton Dorow brings her series, The Royals of Acuniel, to a close. It was such a bittersweet feeling jumping into this last book, a story that strums all the chords of emotion. The beloved family we have come to love through previous novels, now like friends, are fondly remembered as their history weaves into this last story. Dorow does a wonderful job of bringing it all together in this book, though it is primarily about the youngest royal sibling, Matilda.

From the very first page, the book throws the reader into a series of heart-wrenching, perilous events that keep the story's pulse throbbing. I found myself sucked in and read the first hundred pages in one sitting. (So much for making this one last.) The book tugs on heartstrings, has beautiful spiritual themes, and tells a sweet yet unpredictable love story.

Phillip’s romantic obtuseness goes from adorable to annoying at times. Matilda’s reticence with him builds the relational tension. With the two main characters struggling to find their place in the kingdom, we get one last glimpse into Acuniel under King Rowen’s reign. As you read, you feel more like a participant in the world rather than an observer because Dorow’s writing style is so rich and engrossing.

The story is entertaining, beautifully written, and appropriately suspenseful. But what I found truly charming about this book was its spiritual impact. The imagery of prayer as a battlefield and the very real struggle of yielding to God's will touched long-forgotten shadows of unworthiness in my own heart. The deeper messages tucked into the narrative were truly endearing.

This is a favorite of the year for me, a five-star read that had me dwelling on the story even when I wasn’t nose-deep in its pages. A luxurious, imaginative escape, I highly recommend diving into this world. The finale was expertly and inspirationally crafted. Though I am sad to say goodbye to these wonderful characters, I am grateful for the journey. And I wouldn’t be surprised if I find myself revisiting Acuniel in a reread of the series.

I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to leave a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[funkelbunt.liest · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a beautiful and absolutely perfect end to one of the most amazing series I have read in the last two years!

Tillie is a wonderful character and I felt her frustration and restlessness through the pages. I imagined this going in another direction and while I initially thought to be disappointed, I actually really loved how Tillie’s story unfolds. (I don’t want to give away spoilers, but if you have read the book, you probably know what I mean.)

Even though Gareth and Rienna from book 4 remain my favorite couple, the romance between Tillie and Phillip was really sweet - after he FINALLY opened his eyes. It was also wonderful to see all the characters from the previous books again.

I think Ashton Dorow does an amazing job portraying the brutality of war (and the harsh living circumstances of the medieval era in general) without bombarding us with gory details. These books don’t shy away from difficult and heavy topics, but they all never fail to give hope and I felt encouraged in my own faith by each one of them. These books are Biblical retellings or inspired by Biblical stories, in this case by the story of Deborah and I love to find elements of the original.

This is such a special series. One that I want to recommend to every Christian reader and one that I definitely want to put on my shelf one day! (We bookworms all know how difficult it is to build your home library when you’re on a budget, but these books are very high on my wishlist!)

* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.

[Chloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic yet bittersweet ending to the Royals of Acuniel series! I’ve been eagerly anticipating this book for months and boy did it deliver! One of my favorite aspects of this series is the Christian faith elements, as they are always so masterfully woven into each unique story, speaking to all the struggles Christians face in life.

Princess Matilda (Tille, shall I say) was a strong-hearted woman, an excellent combination of Queen Arabella’s faith/strong heart and King Rowan’s fierceness/protectiveness of those he loves. Her ability to prophecy was so interesting and made me tear up. Tillie discovering the powerful gift of prayer made me remember how amazing it is and how it can be literally life-saving. I feel like we often forget the true power of Christians in prayer and how much the Lord wants to hear our voice.

It was so fun to see cameos of each character and how they have developed throughout the series. Philip was a perfect foil to Tillie. Honorable and smart, he made a great MMC and character! I’m usually not a huge fan of the “little sister but then I actually love you trope” as it can be done in a cringy way sometimes, but Miss Dorow’s incorporation of this classic trope was done well. I loved how their love story focused on their strong friendship with each other and the romance built upon it.

I’m sad to say goodbye to this simply beautiful series, but I won’t have to say goodbye forever—I see a re-read in the future!

If you love Christian Medieval Romance, clean romance, friends to lovers (little sister to more?), strong FMC and MMC, fear over faith, and adventure, pick up this book now!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tillie did everything in her power to resist her childhood crush on Phillip. She dealt with her issues by training with her father’s knights, who graciously helped her learn how to fight with sword and knife. Her father, the king, sought to help her understand that each person has a role to fulfill in life—herself included. He refused to allow her to march to war with him. “And you, my dear girl, you have your own path to walk. Mayhap someday that path will lead you to a battlefield… But for now, you can be of service right here. You can be strong for your mother. You can pray for God’s favor to be upon us…”

Little did he know the significance those prayers would have, not just for Tillie, Philip and himself, but for two kingdoms. As she wrestles with her prophetic gifting, her identity, and her role in life, we hold our breath to discover the outcome.

This is a faith challenged story of a medieval world and a princess coping with unrequited love. It is a sweet romance, and a story rich with spiritual significance. Tillie and Phillip become so dear to the reader by the end, that it feels sad that this is the final book in the series.

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Royals of Acuniel series by Ashton E. Dorow is a charming medieval christian young adult romance series that focuses on one couple at a time but acknowledges and tells you how the other couples are doing from the previous books (so minor spoilers if you read out of order).

The Princess of Dreams was the cherry on the cake of the end of a five book series. The main story line was a sweet friends to lovers romance with a satisfying ending, but my favorite part was seeing all the characters from the previous books and their relationships.

This is another perfect book for my house library (haha) as my children get older and I encourage them to read appropriate sweet romances that glorify God.

[B.R. Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect ending to a romantic, God-honoring series. Ashton E. Dorow masterfully weaves Biblically retellings into her world of Acuniel, unlike anything I've ever read.

The Princess of Dreams is loosely based on the Biblical story of Deborah.

I loved the blend of adventure, romance, suspense, and of course, faith. This one had me on the edge of my seat, and the slow burn between the main characters was achingly tender and so well done.

I'll read anything Ashton E. Dorow writes in the future and can't recommend this book or the entire series enough. I can't believe it's over!

[Emily B · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful wrap up to this amazing series. This book was so different from the others in the series in the best way possible while still being the amazing writing by Ashton E Dorow that you know and love.
I loved Tillie as a character and really being a part of her world and her inner battle with her wants and desires.

A deeper review to come but what an amazing series!

[Emily Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good

What a great book, it was wonderful to see Matilda's journey, her strong spirit and sweet romance with her long time crush Phillip. This book surprised me in its spiritual depth while maintaining a very enjoyable story. I'd recommend this book to any reader who loves a clean story with spiritual touches. I can't say enough good about it, happy reading.

[Ember Risley · Rating 5 out of 5]

wow what an incredible story!

This whole series has been amazing, but this one hit deeper and on, so many levels. Beautiful story of not just two people finding love but individuals strong in faith and the desire to do the will of God! Wow!