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Ruses of Lenore #2
Tournament of Ruses
A Ridiculous Contest
Flora Dalton wants nothing more than a quiet life in the countryside of Lenore, but her father's promotion to the Parliament of Lords has uprooted her and planted her smack in the middle of a mess. Not only must she adjust to a new home, a new city, and a new circle of friends, but she also gets to endure a whole country gone mad with excitement: the Eternal Prince—their famed and fabled protector—has decided at long last to take a consort!
Rumor says he's going to marry the prime minister's daughter, Viola Moreland, but the lords have petitioned him to consider each of their daughters in turn, and that includes unlucky Flora. Against her wishes she must navigate a sea of scheming females in a laughable tournament of feminine graces, even as deathly shadows encroach on her doorstep.
For while most everyone is fixated on the Eternal Prince's love life, something sinister is afoot in Lenore, and Flora happens to be at the very heart of it.
Flora Dalton wants nothing more than a quiet life in the countryside of Lenore, but her father's promotion to the Parliament of Lords has uprooted her and planted her smack in the middle of a mess. Not only must she adjust to a new home, a new city, and a new circle of friends, but she also gets to endure a whole country gone mad with excitement: the Eternal Prince—their famed and fabled protector—has decided at long last to take a consort!
Rumor says he's going to marry the prime minister's daughter, Viola Moreland, but the lords have petitioned him to consider each of their daughters in turn, and that includes unlucky Flora. Against her wishes she must navigate a sea of scheming females in a laughable tournament of feminine graces, even as deathly shadows encroach on her doorstep.
For while most everyone is fixated on the Eternal Prince's love life, something sinister is afoot in Lenore, and Flora happens to be at the very heart of it.
346 pages, ebook
First published June 1, 2014
143 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
June 7, 2016
SOOOO.... no wedding bells.
But, nonetheless I am still pleased.
Kingdom of Ruses is the predecessor of Tournament of Ruses with an entirely new character. Flora Dalton.
Woe be to Flora Dalton. Moving from the quaint countryside with her beautiful garden to a bustling city with no friends, very high expectations (some of which include befriending a snobby clique), and a very poorly tended backyard. Now she has to attend some sort of tournament for a supposedly very old magical Prince.
Time after time again Flora finds herself in some mishap, and although Tournament of Ruses has a new cast, there are also a handful of reoccurring characters.
Characters:
Flora was quite her own character, definitely not a Viola. She is certainly a peacemaker, responsible, and level-headed, but she is certainly more introverted. I do agree with another reviewer that she definitely became more interesting after the 50% mark. She finally took a stand for herself, started changing her environment, and I appreciated the turn in confidence.
I thought Stradling did a nice job on Georgiana as well. It is so easy to go wrong with those types of characters, but she made me feel like I wasn't reading a stereotypical "I'm-better-than-you" character. Georgiana had appropriate depth in her shallow motives.
Other characters from Kingdom of Ruses where also well received, the Prime Minister, Mrs. Moreland, Will, Viola, and Edmund. I did have a rather exasperating time with Charlie, however.
Wishes?
Given that Stradling
* Hates sequels (so she must abhor trilogies)
and * because this was published two years ago
It is unlikely that she will ever write a third book, but---
BUT.
I would pick it up in a heartbeat. Especially since it might focus on Edmund.
Wishful thinking, I know, but I'm just going to toss it out there because I am rather sad this is coming to a close.
4 STARS!
But, nonetheless I am still pleased.
Kingdom of Ruses is the predecessor of Tournament of Ruses with an entirely new character. Flora Dalton.
Woe be to Flora Dalton. Moving from the quaint countryside with her beautiful garden to a bustling city with no friends, very high expectations (some of which include befriending a snobby clique), and a very poorly tended backyard. Now she has to attend some sort of tournament for a supposedly very old magical Prince.
Time after time again Flora finds herself in some mishap, and although Tournament of Ruses has a new cast, there are also a handful of reoccurring characters.
Characters:
Flora was quite her own character, definitely not a Viola. She is certainly a peacemaker, responsible, and level-headed, but she is certainly more introverted. I do agree with another reviewer that she definitely became more interesting after the 50% mark. She finally took a stand for herself, started changing her environment, and I appreciated the turn in confidence.
I thought Stradling did a nice job on Georgiana as well. It is so easy to go wrong with those types of characters, but she made me feel like I wasn't reading a stereotypical "I'm-better-than-you" character. Georgiana had appropriate depth in her shallow motives.
Other characters from Kingdom of Ruses where also well received, the Prime Minister, Mrs. Moreland, Will, Viola, and Edmund. I did have a rather exasperating time with Charlie, however.
Wishes?
Given that Stradling
* Hates sequels (so she must abhor trilogies)
and * because this was published two years ago
It is unlikely that she will ever write a third book, but---
BUT.
I would pick it up in a heartbeat. Especially since it might focus on Edmund.
Wishful thinking, I know, but I'm just going to toss it out there because I am rather sad this is coming to a close.
4 STARS!
May 29, 2016
More like 4 1/2 stars
I didn't care much for the heroine at the start - she was very passive and and came off as weak. At around the 50% mark, she decides to start being more active in her own life and became far more interesting as a character. Seeing society through the heroine's eyes was lots of fun - the nonstop backhanded compliments coming from all directions were hysterical.
I didn't think very highly of the romance aspect though it came off pretty cute in the epilogue and sort of redeemed itself. For most of the book, I found the hero to be either an ass or underwhelming.
All in all, I enjoy the author's writing style and the humor sprinkled throughout the book.
I didn't care much for the heroine at the start - she was very passive and and came off as weak. At around the 50% mark, she decides to start being more active in her own life and became far more interesting as a character. Seeing society through the heroine's eyes was lots of fun - the nonstop backhanded compliments coming from all directions were hysterical.
I didn't think very highly of the romance aspect though it came off pretty cute in the epilogue and sort of redeemed itself. For most of the book, I found the hero to be either an ass or underwhelming.
All in all, I enjoy the author's writing style and the humor sprinkled throughout the book.
March 3, 2021
A mini-mini glom. This universe is still very charming but in all this was a bit frustrating. And again the romance plot just passes me by, or at least it feels a bit perfunctory to me. (I did love the brownies..)
September 13, 2016
This is a sequel to Kingdom of Ruses, and in the preface, the author says she doesn't really like sequels because they so often feel like watered-down versions of the originals. This is a different story, though set in the same world as Kingdom, and with some of the same characters. So, it's not a watered-down version of the first story, but it almost felt like it due to some sort of structural things.
For instance, in Kingdom and in Tournament, the main character writes diary entries, which made the two stories have a similar feel. I think that the story told in Tournament was connected enough to the on told in Kingdom without that bit of similarity in how the stories are told.
Even with that: it's a fun little story. I like alternate reality fantasy type stories and that's what this one is. The characters are interesting, the pace is good, and the world is just as captivating in the sequel as it was in the first story.
If you like magic, coming of age stories, or fantasy, you'll probably enjoy this one.
For instance, in Kingdom and in Tournament, the main character writes diary entries, which made the two stories have a similar feel. I think that the story told in Tournament was connected enough to the on told in Kingdom without that bit of similarity in how the stories are told.
Even with that: it's a fun little story. I like alternate reality fantasy type stories and that's what this one is. The characters are interesting, the pace is good, and the world is just as captivating in the sequel as it was in the first story.
If you like magic, coming of age stories, or fantasy, you'll probably enjoy this one.
March 1, 2021
Sadly, I didnt get sucked into this one like I have with Ms. Stradling's previous books. I just wasn't feeling it, I guess. The overall story was ok, I think it would have been fun if more time was spent on the actual "tournament" that Flora hilariously caused. Much more time needed to be spent with the romance, it was very back-burner and just not believable. I guess that's a big reason I didn't enjoy the book as much. I didn't care for the hero, and I'm not personally a fan of a guy being mean all the time and then suddenly at the end declares his love and all is forgiven. They didn't spend enough time together to really build a relationship. I did enjoy the setting, I love the world that Ms. Stradling created and it was fun seeing Viola and the Prince again and getting more closure with their relationshp that we missed out on with the first book.
Content PG
Clean romance, no language, mild violence.
Content PG
Clean romance, no language, mild violence.
December 23, 2023
3.5 stars
I really enjoy Kate Stradling’s writing. This was a worthwhile sequel, nothing author-indulgent here. I really like Flora and loved that she was the main character! Charles was a teensy bit annoying at times though: acted like a 12 yr old boy not a 20+. I wanted more positive Charles-Flora interactions! And, ok, I admit I wanted more aww moments with Viola and Will. Will seemed a bit more like an overgrown puppy than book 1. Otherwise, I think she did a good job keeping characters from book 1 while not letting them become caricatures of themselves. I liked the touches of magic here and there without it being a weirdo vampire novel or something. I’m excited to read the next!
I really enjoy Kate Stradling’s writing. This was a worthwhile sequel, nothing author-indulgent here. I really like Flora and loved that she was the main character! Charles was a teensy bit annoying at times though: acted like a 12 yr old boy not a 20+. I wanted more positive Charles-Flora interactions! And, ok, I admit I wanted more aww moments with Viola and Will. Will seemed a bit more like an overgrown puppy than book 1. Otherwise, I think she did a good job keeping characters from book 1 while not letting them become caricatures of themselves. I liked the touches of magic here and there without it being a weirdo vampire novel or something. I’m excited to read the next!
March 28, 2021
Okay. This sequel to Kingdom of Ruses was AMAZING.
I think I liked this book better than its predecessor, which is saying quite a bit since I was rather fond of the first book and its incredible world. Maybe it's the expansion of the world without it seeming to be a overblown version of the First book (I hear you on the sequel thing, Author). Or it could be the delightful plot and all the sneakiness and cunning....in certain characters.
And you know, I was prepared to refill my bucket of rocks for the love interest, but I grew to like his idiotic floundering too much. The heroine, on the other hand, I definitely loved...and the ending just made me love her and so many other characters more. I also do enjoy how Viola and Will didn't steal her book but how it still continued their story (and the Moreland family's) in a satisfying way.
All in all, great book.
Content: nothing more than kissing on romance scale, a bit of otherworldish magic/violence (not really too gruesome, though)
I think I liked this book better than its predecessor, which is saying quite a bit since I was rather fond of the first book and its incredible world. Maybe it's the expansion of the world without it seeming to be a overblown version of the First book (I hear you on the sequel thing, Author). Or it could be the delightful plot and all the sneakiness and cunning....in certain characters.
And you know, I was prepared to refill my bucket of rocks for the love interest, but I grew to like his idiotic floundering too much. The heroine, on the other hand, I definitely loved...and the ending just made me love her and so many other characters more. I also do enjoy how Viola and Will didn't steal her book but how it still continued their story (and the Moreland family's) in a satisfying way.
All in all, great book.
Content: nothing more than kissing on romance scale, a bit of otherworldish magic/violence (not really too gruesome, though)
September 28, 2025
I'm not sure what hampered my enjoyment of this book. Could have been the semi-apologetic tone of Stradling's note at the beginning. Could have been my cold. Could have been the book itself.
All I know is that some spots were brilliant but most appeared to me to be rather dull. Until the end line from Mrs Moreland upended my view of the whole book. Then I wondered if I should go back and reread the thing.
And then I read Stradling's note to book three and I thought that maybe I had missed the whole point again. So it was probably me. And, in reality, it probably deserves 4 stars.
All I know is that some spots were brilliant but most appeared to me to be rather dull. Until the end line from Mrs Moreland upended my view of the whole book. Then I wondered if I should go back and reread the thing.
And then I read Stradling's note to book three and I thought that maybe I had missed the whole point again. So it was probably me. And, in reality, it probably deserves 4 stars.
November 22, 2020
It's subtitled a Mostly Unnecessary Sequel, but it was definitely necessary! It rounded out the storyline of the first, and I loved being back in the kingdom of Lenore with additional delightful characters. A must read if you read Kingdom of Ruses.
July 22, 2022
cute
If you enjoy putting spiteful self absorbed girls in there places, you’ll relish this. Part of the fun was hearing the verbal backhanded insults. Good, clean, fun. A little wordy in spots but worth it.
If you enjoy putting spiteful self absorbed girls in there places, you’ll relish this. Part of the fun was hearing the verbal backhanded insults. Good, clean, fun. A little wordy in spots but worth it.
May 13, 2021
Hmm. The love story fell very flat for me.
Charlie still needed a talking to by Elizabeth Bennet at the end- he cared nothing for the feelings of others, he was proud, conceited, and even his apology was demanding and rude.
Also, I think it's unfortunate, after having read several of Stradling's books, that the female peers of the protagonist are always rude, back-biting, horrible people.
Charlie still needed a talking to by Elizabeth Bennet at the end- he cared nothing for the feelings of others, he was proud, conceited, and even his apology was demanding and rude.
Also, I think it's unfortunate, after having read several of Stradling's books, that the female peers of the protagonist are always rude, back-biting, horrible people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2025
Kate Stradling's books are my comfort reads. I get a similar vibe from Olivia Atwater's books too.
January 18, 2021
🌕🌕🌕🌗🌑
overall rating : 3.5 / 5
” the very idea that a number of women must clamor to
marry one solitary man repulses her, and she participates
under protest, and only because her father has advised her
that it is the proper thing for her to do “.
____________________________
I do rather love Kate Stradling. Her heroines know who they are, what they want to do, and require no man in displaying that they actually have personalities and interests. Kingdom of Ruses was delightful to read. I think the ending was satisfying in its own way despite wanting to see more of Viola, the Prince, and their blossoming relationship. Despite that, I’m glad that Stradling wrote Tournament of Ruses just so we could see more of them.
While I’d give this series as a whole a 4, I can’t say I cared much for this book’s couple. Flora’s journey from being out of place to carving her own spot in the world was nice, but I really did not care for Charlie and Flora’s romance, or whatever that was. I mean, yes, Charlie’s a bumbling mess with Flora and him being so cold to her is a trope that I enjoy, but his confession and Flora’s subsequent acceptance of it just felt so cheap and not quite real. I think there just wasn’t enough substance to their relationship (or lack of, tbh) for me to really accept that yes, they actually do like each other.
Anyway, a short review for a nice and quaint duology! While I wish we could peer more into the world, I’m fine with what Stradling has already given us. :^)
🌲💐
overall rating : 3.5 / 5
” the very idea that a number of women must clamor to
marry one solitary man repulses her, and she participates
under protest, and only because her father has advised her
that it is the proper thing for her to do “.
____________________________
I do rather love Kate Stradling. Her heroines know who they are, what they want to do, and require no man in displaying that they actually have personalities and interests. Kingdom of Ruses was delightful to read. I think the ending was satisfying in its own way despite wanting to see more of Viola, the Prince, and their blossoming relationship. Despite that, I’m glad that Stradling wrote Tournament of Ruses just so we could see more of them.
While I’d give this series as a whole a 4, I can’t say I cared much for this book’s couple. Flora’s journey from being out of place to carving her own spot in the world was nice, but I really did not care for Charlie and Flora’s romance, or whatever that was. I mean, yes, Charlie’s a bumbling mess with Flora and him being so cold to her is a trope that I enjoy, but his confession and Flora’s subsequent acceptance of it just felt so cheap and not quite real. I think there just wasn’t enough substance to their relationship (or lack of, tbh) for me to really accept that yes, they actually do like each other.
Anyway, a short review for a nice and quaint duology! While I wish we could peer more into the world, I’m fine with what Stradling has already given us. :^)
🌲💐
May 6, 2015
This book is instantly engaging, as it takes you into world that feels slightly regency era, but more so incredibly unique. As the reader you will instantly feel bad for poor Flora as she suffers through this life that is nothing like she'd ever wanted for herself. Then when magic is introduced... hold onto your socks ladies and gentlemen! There are so many fantastic twist and unexpected turns, I could barely put the book down! As it is, it only took me about 12 hours to devour the entire thing.
There is a book that comes before this one, called Kingdom of Ruses, but as the author so kindly informs us in the preface, you do NOT need to read it before diving into this one. I completely agree that while it's a sequel it also works FABULOUSLY as a stand alone. I want to read the first book, purely because of how much I adored Author Kate Stradling's world that she has created.
The only thing I can say, is I wish that this amazing book had an equally amazing cover. I'd never expected such a dynamic, magical book to be encased in something so simple.
Regardless, I give this book an easy 5 STARS!!!
There is a book that comes before this one, called Kingdom of Ruses, but as the author so kindly informs us in the preface, you do NOT need to read it before diving into this one. I completely agree that while it's a sequel it also works FABULOUSLY as a stand alone. I want to read the first book, purely because of how much I adored Author Kate Stradling's world that she has created.
The only thing I can say, is I wish that this amazing book had an equally amazing cover. I'd never expected such a dynamic, magical book to be encased in something so simple.
Regardless, I give this book an easy 5 STARS!!!
December 24, 2020
Fun, cute, and gripping, though not nearly as good as the first book. For one thing, the main love interest is a moody idiot. I liked him in book 1, but here I just couldn't understand what she saw in him. Will was already taken, so obviously I didn't want him for Flora, but he was such an obviously more interesting and fun character that Charlie looked even worse in comparison. The side characters were really the best part of the book. It's great fun to see Will and Viola in love, Edmund being adorable, and the mom conniving. Flora wasn't my favorite main character ever, but I liked her. I found the-dealing with a cliquish queen bee-trope rather annoying/boring and the plot was very silly. But it was an excellent distraction for a migraine day.
December 31, 2021
I feel like Kate Stradling hit her storytelling stride here. This was one of the books I knew I would thoroughly enjoy right from the first chapter. While it's always fun to see previous characters from a different angle (and this book definitely builds on the events of Kingdom of Ruses), Flora rightly takes centre-stage as the heroine of her own story here, and it was lovely to see her grow in confidence throughout the book. And as bonus, I felt the romance was played out to perfection.
Read
November 24, 2021This is the sequel to Kingdom of Ruses and every bit as good! I love this author's characterizations and world-building. The magic and the political systems are excellent!
This book, in particular, features a subtle build of plot and romance that often had me laughing aloud. Yes, the main characters are frustrating. But that's because they're so realistic! Loved them both, and also loved seeing the main characters from the first book find their happy ending.
Read both books! If you enjoy clever fantasy, you will love them as much as I do.
This book, in particular, features a subtle build of plot and romance that often had me laughing aloud. Yes, the main characters are frustrating. But that's because they're so realistic! Loved them both, and also loved seeing the main characters from the first book find their happy ending.
Read both books! If you enjoy clever fantasy, you will love them as much as I do.
February 26, 2022
This is classic yet modern, gentle yet exciting. I so loved returning to this world and these characters. Flora is a girl after my own heart and I really enjoyed Charles in this book.
This is the kind of sequel I never knew I was missing. It fleshes out the minor characters, adds some great new ones, gives us just enough of the beloved old ones, and is actually more light hearted than the first. Usually sequels have raised stakes and a darker tone, but this subverted those expectations in a wonderful, satisfying way. What a talent Kate Stradling is!
This is the kind of sequel I never knew I was missing. It fleshes out the minor characters, adds some great new ones, gives us just enough of the beloved old ones, and is actually more light hearted than the first. Usually sequels have raised stakes and a darker tone, but this subverted those expectations in a wonderful, satisfying way. What a talent Kate Stradling is!
August 10, 2025
New
I love this series its so fun <3
Old review
I redesigned the cover you can see in my design Instagram page @toastedbutter
This was the second fun installment in the kingdom of the false eternal Prince and things have gone even more ridiculous with the competition for consort.
Flora is fun though a bit spineless initially, I like the subtle way she stands up for herself with all the politics she has to account for.
This series seems to be the most light-hearted of Kate's books.
I love this series its so fun <3
Old review
I redesigned the cover you can see in my design Instagram page @toastedbutter
This was the second fun installment in the kingdom of the false eternal Prince and things have gone even more ridiculous with the competition for consort.
Flora is fun though a bit spineless initially, I like the subtle way she stands up for herself with all the politics she has to account for.
This series seems to be the most light-hearted of Kate's books.
May 27, 2022
Fresh and delightful sequel
I had my misgivings when I realized the MC was a different character than book 1, but Flora proved to be a delight to follow. This story was funny and charming and I can't wait to see how book 3 goes.
I had my misgivings when I realized the MC was a different character than book 1, but Flora proved to be a delight to follow. This story was funny and charming and I can't wait to see how book 3 goes.
March 21, 2020
I have such mixed feelings about this book. I liked it, but it was a bit slower paced than Kingdom of Ruses. The story follows Flora in a sense, but it's really more about the Moreland family, and her interactions with it, and the world around her. Flora starts off as a rather irritating character, but her story arc of her coming into her own was really well done and I wound up enjoying her a lot in the end.
A lot of good plot reveals in this one, all were ones I weren't really expecting. If you read the first book, it's really entertaining, because it's like you're in on this inside joke with the main cast of Kingdom of Ruses and it's just really funny to see Flora react to things, and you already know what they were. It adds this sense of realness to the story, and I found it super enjoyable.
Viola and Will are still in top form, love them, and the other Morelands. It was nice to see Mr. and Mrs. moreland more in this book, and how far their plotting truly goes. MVP of the book is totally Mrs. Moreland though, she was fantastic. The weak point for this to me was Charlie though. He just came off as super mean for no reason, and his interactions with Flora got on my nerves. When we got the reveal of why he was acting that way in the end, I didn't feel like it warranted how hostile he was acting to Flora. Flora and Charlie aren't a great couple to me either, like I like the fact that Flora is part of the main cast if we ever do get another book in this universe, but them as a pair is just kinda meh to me. Nowhere near as good as Viola and Will.
The reveal of why the tournament was held was super funny, and not something I expected. I knew there was an ulterior motive, but hearing it at the end just got a chuckle out of me. The supporting cast of mean girls was an interesting foil to Flora as well, and part of why her character development was so interesting. Georgiana is an interesting antagonist to her, and seeing her reasons for doing what she was doing, and making her fleshed out more than just being a mean girl was a nice touch also.
I wouldn't mind revisiting this universe in another book if Stradling decided to write another, but at the same time this book also was a bit long, and not too much happened in it if I'm being honest. A fun read, don't get me wrong. Far more character driven, I'd say entirely so, but at the same time, other than seeing a happily ever after for the main cast of book 1, this didn't seem like it was a necessary sequel. I'm glad it exists, but at the same time...did it have to?
And that's where my mixed feelings for this book come from. Not really something that needed a sequel, but at the same time after the end of book 1 I was like "That's it? Where's the rest!". I wasn't expecting the rest to be this, but I still enjoyed it nevertheless and it was lots of fun reading these characters in what I consider to be an extended epilogue more than anything else. I hope we get to see the couples again in another story, by far my favorite cast of characters in a Stradling book, and that's why I don't mind reading anything in this world with these characters.
Pick this up if you really enjoy humor, character driven plot, and romance. You won't be let down!
A lot of good plot reveals in this one, all were ones I weren't really expecting. If you read the first book, it's really entertaining, because it's like you're in on this inside joke with the main cast of Kingdom of Ruses and it's just really funny to see Flora react to things, and you already know what they were. It adds this sense of realness to the story, and I found it super enjoyable.
Viola and Will are still in top form, love them, and the other Morelands. It was nice to see Mr. and Mrs. moreland more in this book, and how far their plotting truly goes. MVP of the book is totally Mrs. Moreland though, she was fantastic. The weak point for this to me was Charlie though. He just came off as super mean for no reason, and his interactions with Flora got on my nerves. When we got the reveal of why he was acting that way in the end, I didn't feel like it warranted how hostile he was acting to Flora. Flora and Charlie aren't a great couple to me either, like I like the fact that Flora is part of the main cast if we ever do get another book in this universe, but them as a pair is just kinda meh to me. Nowhere near as good as Viola and Will.
The reveal of why the tournament was held was super funny, and not something I expected. I knew there was an ulterior motive, but hearing it at the end just got a chuckle out of me. The supporting cast of mean girls was an interesting foil to Flora as well, and part of why her character development was so interesting. Georgiana is an interesting antagonist to her, and seeing her reasons for doing what she was doing, and making her fleshed out more than just being a mean girl was a nice touch also.
I wouldn't mind revisiting this universe in another book if Stradling decided to write another, but at the same time this book also was a bit long, and not too much happened in it if I'm being honest. A fun read, don't get me wrong. Far more character driven, I'd say entirely so, but at the same time, other than seeing a happily ever after for the main cast of book 1, this didn't seem like it was a necessary sequel. I'm glad it exists, but at the same time...did it have to?
And that's where my mixed feelings for this book come from. Not really something that needed a sequel, but at the same time after the end of book 1 I was like "That's it? Where's the rest!". I wasn't expecting the rest to be this, but I still enjoyed it nevertheless and it was lots of fun reading these characters in what I consider to be an extended epilogue more than anything else. I hope we get to see the couples again in another story, by far my favorite cast of characters in a Stradling book, and that's why I don't mind reading anything in this world with these characters.
Pick this up if you really enjoy humor, character driven plot, and romance. You won't be let down!
August 13, 2018
Lovely sequel. I really enjoyed returning the world of Lenore and getting to know some new characters and also reacquainting myself with known characters in new ways. Viola's mother is definitely a favorite of mine in this book. While largely out of the picture in the first book, she is a feminine powerhouse in this book in the most comic and clever ways. And as for new characters, I enjoyed Flora and found her character arch to be a particularly honest journey of discovery about loosing what she thought she wanted, and discovering she is capable of much more than she ever imagined. I too have thought small about myself, only to discover (mostly through the help of others) that I was more capable than I thought. I enjoyed the brownies more that I can really express. Their subtle and not-so-subtle night conversation meant to be overheard since they can't talk to humans had me giggling profusely!! I would love to see more of them. I also really enjoyed the interesting twist at the very end of the book that I did not see coming. I enjoy a good surprise, and I was surprised.
Charlie and Flora's romance fell a little flat for me. It was obvious that he was in denial about liking her throughout the book and I was enjoying her complete obliviousness to that fact. I was disappointed when out of nowhere she finds herself falling for him. I think I really wanted a scene where he can't stand it and tells her he loves her and she is just so blown away she doesn't know what to do and then their relationship builds from there. (Akin to Pride and Predjudice, I guess) The romance was fine, but the stakes were not high enough for me to be worried or rooting for the couple.
Charlie and Flora's romance fell a little flat for me. It was obvious that he was in denial about liking her throughout the book and I was enjoying her complete obliviousness to that fact. I was disappointed when out of nowhere she finds herself falling for him. I think I really wanted a scene where he can't stand it and tells her he loves her and she is just so blown away she doesn't know what to do and then their relationship builds from there. (Akin to Pride and Predjudice, I guess) The romance was fine, but the stakes were not high enough for me to be worried or rooting for the couple.
January 14, 2018
While this still makes it to four stars for being entertaining and enjoyable, it didn't impress me as much as the first in the series. (I bought the second as soon as I finished the first, which is not something I do all the time.)
First, the stakes in this book didn't seem nearly as high. In the first book, the kingdom's fate hung in the balance, but here it's mostly social stakes and some dangerous, but fairly easily defeated, attackers. Now, social stakes can feel just as urgent, in the right hands, but here I found myself thinking about the peasants who were being taxed so that all these flighty aristocrats could have extravagant parties, and thinking they were being ripped off.
Secondly, the main character wasn't nearly as strong. Viola, in the first book, is competent, sensible, determined, independent-minded, and willing to sacrifice herself in the right cause. Flora, in this book, while intelligent and sensible, is several times accused (with some justification) of being a bit spineless and just going along with things, and never actually commits that strongly to her duties; she always wants to give up and go back to her quiet country existence, even right near the end.
And third, the copy editing, which was decent with a few issues in the first book, is much shakier in this one. Lots of homonym errors and other vocabulary problems, plus a good many typos. The author can't make up her mind whether the street where the lords live is "Lords' Row" (which it should be) or "Lord's Row," and at one point has both on the same page. I've reported these to Amazon, and hopefully they'll be fixed soon.
All in all, though, enjoyable, and I've bought a third book by the same author, which is an important measure, for me, of how well a book has worked for me.
First, the stakes in this book didn't seem nearly as high. In the first book, the kingdom's fate hung in the balance, but here it's mostly social stakes and some dangerous, but fairly easily defeated, attackers. Now, social stakes can feel just as urgent, in the right hands, but here I found myself thinking about the peasants who were being taxed so that all these flighty aristocrats could have extravagant parties, and thinking they were being ripped off.
Secondly, the main character wasn't nearly as strong. Viola, in the first book, is competent, sensible, determined, independent-minded, and willing to sacrifice herself in the right cause. Flora, in this book, while intelligent and sensible, is several times accused (with some justification) of being a bit spineless and just going along with things, and never actually commits that strongly to her duties; she always wants to give up and go back to her quiet country existence, even right near the end.
And third, the copy editing, which was decent with a few issues in the first book, is much shakier in this one. Lots of homonym errors and other vocabulary problems, plus a good many typos. The author can't make up her mind whether the street where the lords live is "Lords' Row" (which it should be) or "Lord's Row," and at one point has both on the same page. I've reported these to Amazon, and hopefully they'll be fixed soon.
All in all, though, enjoyable, and I've bought a third book by the same author, which is an important measure, for me, of how well a book has worked for me.
August 4, 2020
Even better than the first!
I enjoyed the first book, but found its ending a tad too abrupt. Kingdom of Ruses was well-written, for sure, and ended at a good point, but was not totally satisfying. Tournament of Ruses not only fulfilled that lack, but surpassed it. It’s everything a sequel should be, and more!
Firstly, it’s continuation of the original, yet completely different in both plot and focus. It’s got a good number of ties to the first book, but it’s able to stand on its own (AND you’re not forced through recountings of the first book that you didn’t need, AND you’re not banging your head with frustration due to your extra knowledge that makes the people seem oblivious).
Moreover, it focuses on a different set of protagonists (I can’t stand having my illusions of the first set shattered. Worst of all are those books that actually break them up in the sequel! Luckily this was not one of them).
And I like Flora even better than Viola! I was worried I wouldn’t, because she seemed so timid and I always get irritated by super shy characters. (Don’t worry, she doesn’t get a random personality transplant to make her bold at convenient times. I might hate those more than super-shy heroines.)
Most importantly, though, it really does end well, not as abruptly as the first book.
If I could, I would give a sixth star for Mrs Moreland. She’s the most awesome character in the book.
I enjoyed the first book, but found its ending a tad too abrupt. Kingdom of Ruses was well-written, for sure, and ended at a good point, but was not totally satisfying. Tournament of Ruses not only fulfilled that lack, but surpassed it. It’s everything a sequel should be, and more!
Firstly, it’s continuation of the original, yet completely different in both plot and focus. It’s got a good number of ties to the first book, but it’s able to stand on its own (AND you’re not forced through recountings of the first book that you didn’t need, AND you’re not banging your head with frustration due to your extra knowledge that makes the people seem oblivious).
Moreover, it focuses on a different set of protagonists (I can’t stand having my illusions of the first set shattered. Worst of all are those books that actually break them up in the sequel! Luckily this was not one of them).
And I like Flora even better than Viola! I was worried I wouldn’t, because she seemed so timid and I always get irritated by super shy characters. (Don’t worry, she doesn’t get a random personality transplant to make her bold at convenient times. I might hate those more than super-shy heroines.)
Most importantly, though, it really does end well, not as abruptly as the first book.
If I could, I would give a sixth star for Mrs Moreland. She’s the most awesome character in the book.
January 7, 2022
Eeek!! This book was too good! Just perfect, even better than I could have hoped! Although I could have gone for a touch more romance!
As you can see from my abundance of exclamation marks, I’m liking this series!!!
Kate Stradling has a talent for making a reader completely fall in love with the H&h of the story.
In Book 1, Will and Viola couldn’t have been more perfect, I just wanted three books about them and only them.
But then I read Book 2, and well I’m in the exact same thought process but with Charlie and Flora! Their relationship is adorable but I feel like it’s only just started, I want more of them! There has been a lot of fun in the banter aspects, but they could do with some more actual romance. I felt like I barely saw the love develop between them because so much of their interactions were ‘off screen’.
And I was happy to see Will and Violas relationship in the background, but I would have liked more of them too. Just give me all the romance lol
So now I will start Book 3, completely fall in love with Edmund (who is a lot like Will) and whoever his interest is.
And finally getting to see everyones happy endings!
I cannot get enough of Kate Stradlings books, they’re all unique, in these wonderfully enchanting worlds, and I never want to leave!
If you haven’t read her books yet- I’m kicking you in the butt through my screen right now- get on it!!!
Content: clean
Romance: kissing
Violence: mild
Language: none.
As you can see from my abundance of exclamation marks, I’m liking this series!!!
Kate Stradling has a talent for making a reader completely fall in love with the H&h of the story.
In Book 1, Will and Viola couldn’t have been more perfect, I just wanted three books about them and only them.
But then I read Book 2, and well I’m in the exact same thought process but with Charlie and Flora! Their relationship is adorable but I feel like it’s only just started, I want more of them! There has been a lot of fun in the banter aspects, but they could do with some more actual romance. I felt like I barely saw the love develop between them because so much of their interactions were ‘off screen’.
And I was happy to see Will and Violas relationship in the background, but I would have liked more of them too. Just give me all the romance lol
So now I will start Book 3, completely fall in love with Edmund (who is a lot like Will) and whoever his interest is.
And finally getting to see everyones happy endings!
I cannot get enough of Kate Stradlings books, they’re all unique, in these wonderfully enchanting worlds, and I never want to leave!
If you haven’t read her books yet- I’m kicking you in the butt through my screen right now- get on it!!!
Content: clean
Romance: kissing
Violence: mild
Language: none.
March 23, 2020
**4.5 **
As a sequel that follows a new character, Tournament of Ruses started out at a disadvantage. Especially given the sudden and incomplete feeling end of the first book Kingdom of Ruses.
And, all in all, TOR held its own. I struggle a little between being happy at more Will and Viola moments, and yet internally weeping that they didn't get half the satisfying conclusion that Charlie and Flora did.
Basically I just want all of the Will and Viola moments. And then MORE Will and Viola moments.
Charlie and Flora weren't quite as endearing as their predecessors, (bonus points for having Viola's brother be the love interest though!) mainly because Charlie's character was very inconsistent in his moods and reactions. Even as a reader, his early-on swing from open and friendly to suspicious and bitter was a little jarring. I wasn't exactly feeling the love for about 98% of the book--which is a little longer than I Iike my love-hate relationships to carry on, but their ending was satisfying and humorous. (See! It's possible to have both elements in an ending!)
To wrap this review up I'll just make quick observations.
Plot: A little slow at times, but still enjoyable.
Other characters: Who cares about them. What's Will and Viola doing? ;)
Personal preferences: The way the magic was written in this duology (speaking incantations, blood related things, and the antagonists) was not my favorite.
Final thoughts: I walk away from these books with a vague sense of still needing closure. Kate Stradling certainly is good at creating enjoyable and entertaining characters and stories, but a lot of times her endings make me want a little more. Which could be worse, right?
As a sequel that follows a new character, Tournament of Ruses started out at a disadvantage. Especially given the sudden and incomplete feeling end of the first book Kingdom of Ruses.
And, all in all, TOR held its own. I struggle a little between being happy at more Will and Viola moments, and yet internally weeping that they didn't get half the satisfying conclusion that Charlie and Flora did.
Basically I just want all of the Will and Viola moments. And then MORE Will and Viola moments.
Charlie and Flora weren't quite as endearing as their predecessors, (bonus points for having Viola's brother be the love interest though!) mainly because Charlie's character was very inconsistent in his moods and reactions. Even as a reader, his early-on swing from open and friendly to suspicious and bitter was a little jarring. I wasn't exactly feeling the love for about 98% of the book--which is a little longer than I Iike my love-hate relationships to carry on, but their ending was satisfying and humorous. (See! It's possible to have both elements in an ending!)
To wrap this review up I'll just make quick observations.
Plot: A little slow at times, but still enjoyable.
Other characters: Who cares about them. What's Will and Viola doing? ;)
Personal preferences: The way the magic was written in this duology (speaking incantations, blood related things, and the antagonists) was not my favorite.
Final thoughts: I walk away from these books with a vague sense of still needing closure. Kate Stradling certainly is good at creating enjoyable and entertaining characters and stories, but a lot of times her endings make me want a little more. Which could be worse, right?
January 16, 2021
Tournament of Ruses picks up almost right where the first book leaves off, but follows a new MC. At first I wasn't sure about this, as I really loved Viola and was wanting more from her perspective. But Flora is just as loveable and I quickly didn't mind at all.
I think the plot is a bit tighter in this one. This is mostly because the world is already built so the author can focus on the story and characters a bit more. I am glad that the tournament itself did not dominate the story. Instead it's truly about Flora and the challenges she is facing, and there are many! It's also about the Moreland's, the "Prince", and finishing up their story started in the first book.
The romance aspect was a little bit of a let down for me, though I feel bad saying so. I didn't think the love interest gave Flora much of a reason to actually fall for him. Not that I don't think they were a good fit, there just weren't any scenes until the end of the book to justify her feeling for him. Mostly he was grumpy, and not in an endearing way.
The romance aside I loved both of these books and recommend reading them both!
I think the plot is a bit tighter in this one. This is mostly because the world is already built so the author can focus on the story and characters a bit more. I am glad that the tournament itself did not dominate the story. Instead it's truly about Flora and the challenges she is facing, and there are many! It's also about the Moreland's, the "Prince", and finishing up their story started in the first book.
The romance aspect was a little bit of a let down for me, though I feel bad saying so. I didn't think the love interest gave Flora much of a reason to actually fall for him. Not that I don't think they were a good fit, there just weren't any scenes until the end of the book to justify her feeling for him. Mostly he was grumpy, and not in an endearing way.
The romance aside I loved both of these books and recommend reading them both!
May 28, 2021
Stradling says she doesn't think that sequels really need to exist, and I have to say generally agree. But sometimes there are exceptions. This was one of them.
A young lady finds herself unceremoniously plopped down into a tiny house in the middle of the capital city, instead of her wonderful home with the big garden out in the country. Her so-called friends are basically back-stabbing meanies who are only nice to get the newest scoop they anticipate. In a moment of weakness, she tells the biggest-ever whopper to get them to back off and possibly to embarrass them a little. She had no way to know that they would totally believe her, and that so would everyone else. She also had no way to know how deeply that would effect the actual course of events.
One of the things I loved about this book was how the prime minister's wife really shines. She's far-seeing, kind and shrewd (but not in a mean way). She's amazing. That comes out so much more in this book.
It's a fun addition to the fib-telling cast from Kingdom of Ruses and I enjoyed it.
A young lady finds herself unceremoniously plopped down into a tiny house in the middle of the capital city, instead of her wonderful home with the big garden out in the country. Her so-called friends are basically back-stabbing meanies who are only nice to get the newest scoop they anticipate. In a moment of weakness, she tells the biggest-ever whopper to get them to back off and possibly to embarrass them a little. She had no way to know that they would totally believe her, and that so would everyone else. She also had no way to know how deeply that would effect the actual course of events.
One of the things I loved about this book was how the prime minister's wife really shines. She's far-seeing, kind and shrewd (but not in a mean way). She's amazing. That comes out so much more in this book.
It's a fun addition to the fib-telling cast from Kingdom of Ruses and I enjoyed it.
August 28, 2020
So glad there was a sequel!
The author may disagree but I would love even more from the land of Lenore. I fell in love with the characters and the setting of this city. There is so much to explore and uncover in the secrets and magic of this world Kate has created. I think I may have enjoyed this second book even more than the first. I absolutely adore Flora, she is a strong, intelligent woman who loves to read and enjoys studying. I laughed out loud quite often as I read. Her personality comes across so strong and the interaction between her and the Moreland family is delightful. I enjoyed getting to know Viola and the prince in the first book and seeing them grow in this book while exploring the relationship of Charles with Flora was such fun. I really liked the diary entry at the start of each chapter to gain insight into the thoughts of Flora.
I'm excited to explore more books by this author, she is becoming another one of my favorites!
The author may disagree but I would love even more from the land of Lenore. I fell in love with the characters and the setting of this city. There is so much to explore and uncover in the secrets and magic of this world Kate has created. I think I may have enjoyed this second book even more than the first. I absolutely adore Flora, she is a strong, intelligent woman who loves to read and enjoys studying. I laughed out loud quite often as I read. Her personality comes across so strong and the interaction between her and the Moreland family is delightful. I enjoyed getting to know Viola and the prince in the first book and seeing them grow in this book while exploring the relationship of Charles with Flora was such fun. I really liked the diary entry at the start of each chapter to gain insight into the thoughts of Flora.
I'm excited to explore more books by this author, she is becoming another one of my favorites!
April 28, 2019
Kate Stradling is a new author to me and I am enjoying going through her books. I don't often find an author that I just plow through their stories, but I have enjoyed each of Kate's so far and because they give me a good feeling when I am through, I want to keep reading more.
This story is about a Princess tournament overall, but it's really about a girl who finds a strange puddle in her back yard and discovers a whole new life outside of the safe country lifestyle she came from. Her father is placed in parliament after being a magistrate in the country and he sends for Flora to come a be with him, setting her up in a position to rub noses with the upper echelons of that society - and she does. Some become friends, and some just bother her!
There are some laughs and light moments and some very tense moments in this story - and I'm so grateful that it is clean!
This story is about a Princess tournament overall, but it's really about a girl who finds a strange puddle in her back yard and discovers a whole new life outside of the safe country lifestyle she came from. Her father is placed in parliament after being a magistrate in the country and he sends for Flora to come a be with him, setting her up in a position to rub noses with the upper echelons of that society - and she does. Some become friends, and some just bother her!
There are some laughs and light moments and some very tense moments in this story - and I'm so grateful that it is clean!
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