What do you think?
Rate this book
The Courtesan's Forgotten Prince
Beauty’s benefactor maybe more than a Beast…
Lydia is no stranger to intrigue and dangerous liaisons. Being a courtesan, she has experienced her share as one of the renowned "Virtues” of the Crimson Court. And she is most intrigued when a mysterious invitation comes from an enigmatic nobleman to be his private courtesan for the evening; he is not only hiring her for her body, but also her intellect and company.
There is only one she is not allowed to see his face
Damian was once the Imperial crown prince, but now he is a shadow of a man. Having lost everything, his title, his status, and even his face, he has resigned himself to his only purpose in the shadows, to protect his brother, the emperor. But when he risks it all to spend one night with the Courtesan Beauty, he finds he cannot continue in his lonely existence.
Surrounded by intrigue and political machinations, these two find themselves plunged into danger, not only for their lives, but also their hearts.
Lydia is no stranger to intrigue and dangerous liaisons. Being a courtesan, she has experienced her share as one of the renowned "Virtues” of the Crimson Court. And she is most intrigued when a mysterious invitation comes from an enigmatic nobleman to be his private courtesan for the evening; he is not only hiring her for her body, but also her intellect and company.
There is only one she is not allowed to see his face
Damian was once the Imperial crown prince, but now he is a shadow of a man. Having lost everything, his title, his status, and even his face, he has resigned himself to his only purpose in the shadows, to protect his brother, the emperor. But when he risks it all to spend one night with the Courtesan Beauty, he finds he cannot continue in his lonely existence.
Surrounded by intrigue and political machinations, these two find themselves plunged into danger, not only for their lives, but also their hearts.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 26, 2026
About the author
Megan Mackie
42 books102 followersMegan Mackie is a writer, actor, and playwright. She started her writing career as an indie author and had such smashing success in her first year with her inaugural book The Finder of the Lucky Devil. She has become a personality at many cons, recognizable by her iconic leather hat and engaging smile.
She is also a contributing writer in the role-playing game Legendlore and Legendlore: Legacies by Onyx Path Publishing and Sirens: Battle of the Bards through Apotheosis Studios. Outside of writing, she likes to play games: board games, RPGs, and video games. She has a regular Pathfinder group who is working their way through Rapanthuk. She lives in Chicago with her husband and children, dog, three cats, and her mother in the apartment upstairs.
She is also a contributing writer in the role-playing game Legendlore and Legendlore: Legacies by Onyx Path Publishing and Sirens: Battle of the Bards through Apotheosis Studios. Outside of writing, she likes to play games: board games, RPGs, and video games. She has a regular Pathfinder group who is working their way through Rapanthuk. She lives in Chicago with her husband and children, dog, three cats, and her mother in the apartment upstairs.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely love it when I give new authors a chance, and their books pop off! Megan Mackie, I will definitely be checking out your blacklist!
When I read in the blurb that The Courtesan's Forgotten Prince was a Beauty and the Beast retelling with Phantom of the Opera vibes, I couldn’t sign up fast enough. Lydia is our beauty. She grew up a street rat until a madame took pity on her and started giving her courtesan lessons. She will eventually become one of the most sought-after courtesans in the empire. Our beast, Damien, hides in the undercourt of the palace. He face is disfigured, and the rumors are that he was cursed. Due to loneliness, Damien sought out a night with Lydia. There was a catch, though. Lydia was not allowed to see his face. And from then on, the book is non-stop action.
I fiercely enjoyed this one! It was chalk full of action, drama, court politics, and really good spice! Wowza! I'm talking 3.5-4 chili peppers.There also were some really special tender moments in there that will have you swooning like a school girl for Damien.
I did get somewhat frustrated with the miscommunication storyline. It's my least favorite way for authors to throw in the third act problem leading to the big finale. But other than that. I'd say this book was an all-around winner!
When I read in the blurb that The Courtesan's Forgotten Prince was a Beauty and the Beast retelling with Phantom of the Opera vibes, I couldn’t sign up fast enough. Lydia is our beauty. She grew up a street rat until a madame took pity on her and started giving her courtesan lessons. She will eventually become one of the most sought-after courtesans in the empire. Our beast, Damien, hides in the undercourt of the palace. He face is disfigured, and the rumors are that he was cursed. Due to loneliness, Damien sought out a night with Lydia. There was a catch, though. Lydia was not allowed to see his face. And from then on, the book is non-stop action.
I fiercely enjoyed this one! It was chalk full of action, drama, court politics, and really good spice! Wowza! I'm talking 3.5-4 chili peppers.There also were some really special tender moments in there that will have you swooning like a school girl for Damien.
I did get somewhat frustrated with the miscommunication storyline. It's my least favorite way for authors to throw in the third act problem leading to the big finale. But other than that. I'd say this book was an all-around winner!
Read
February 27, 2026Review of advanced copy recieved from Author
.
A romantasy retelling of Beauty and the Beast with vibes from Phantom of the Opera.
Lydia is our beauty and a courtesan in the Crimson court. One night she get’s an invitation to a mysterious meeting with a man who won’t show her his face. This is Damien, our beast, a former prince who suffers from a curse. Damien seeks companionship and he makes Lydia an offer to come be with him. It is quite the offer!
Lydia took some time for me to really like, but she’s a strong FMC and not afraid to stand up for herself and asking the questions she wants answers to. Damien is moody and very lonely when we first meet him through Lydias pov, but then you read through his pov and realize he’s such a sweetheart and deserves all the love in the world! It really gives so much to the story when it’s dual pov. Together they tackle all the drama, politics and intrigue happening in the court. There’s some push and pull between Lydia and Damien, but I loved the tender moments between them, and there’s also some very good written spice 🌶️
This book is fast paced and good! Check it out of you like romantasy with the following tropes;
🥀 Beauty and the Beast retelling
🥀 Phantom of the Opera vibes
🥀 Victorian romance
🥀 Forced proximity
🥀 High heat
🥀 Court intrigue
🥀 Class difference
🥀 Secret Identity
🥀 Disfigured hero
.
A romantasy retelling of Beauty and the Beast with vibes from Phantom of the Opera.
Lydia is our beauty and a courtesan in the Crimson court. One night she get’s an invitation to a mysterious meeting with a man who won’t show her his face. This is Damien, our beast, a former prince who suffers from a curse. Damien seeks companionship and he makes Lydia an offer to come be with him. It is quite the offer!
Lydia took some time for me to really like, but she’s a strong FMC and not afraid to stand up for herself and asking the questions she wants answers to. Damien is moody and very lonely when we first meet him through Lydias pov, but then you read through his pov and realize he’s such a sweetheart and deserves all the love in the world! It really gives so much to the story when it’s dual pov. Together they tackle all the drama, politics and intrigue happening in the court. There’s some push and pull between Lydia and Damien, but I loved the tender moments between them, and there’s also some very good written spice 🌶️
This book is fast paced and good! Check it out of you like romantasy with the following tropes;
🥀 Beauty and the Beast retelling
🥀 Phantom of the Opera vibes
🥀 Victorian romance
🥀 Forced proximity
🥀 High heat
🥀 Court intrigue
🥀 Class difference
🥀 Secret Identity
🥀 Disfigured hero
February 28, 2026
Beauty & Her Beast...
Think Phantom of the Opera meets Beauty and the Beast. I enjoyed this re-telling, you have a strong willed FMC a MMC who falls hard, political intrigue, magical elements and a love story all rolled into one.
Think Phantom of the Opera meets Beauty and the Beast. I enjoyed this re-telling, you have a strong willed FMC a MMC who falls hard, political intrigue, magical elements and a love story all rolled into one.
March 12, 2026
Thank you to the author for sending me an advance copy!
Lydia has made a name for herself in the Crimson Court—people call her the Beauty Virtue, and not without reason. She’s spent years navigating every kind of encounter with every kind of person, yet even she is caught off guard when a wealthy, enigmatic nobleman requests her company for an evening under two unusual conditions: she may speak only to him, and she must never see his face.
Damian was once the beloved crown prince, admired for his charm and striking looks. Now he lives as a shadow of that man—scarred, avoided, and whispered about. He works behind the scenes to protect his brother, the Emperor, but for one night he’s willing to risk everything just to be near the woman known as Beauty.
What neither expects is how deeply that single encounter will unsettle them. Afterward, they can’t shake the pull between them, and soon they’re drawn into a web of court intrigue, dangerous secrets, and political maneuvering that threatens far more than their hearts.
This story blended so many of my favorite tropes and somehow still managed to feel fresh. One of the things I loved most was how quickly Lydia connected with Damian. Even when everyone else recoiled from him, she didn’t treat him like a monster. She saw the person beneath the scars almost immediately. They were both hesitant to trust—how could they not be? She grew up surviving on the streets, making her own place in a world that never handed her anything. He was once the adored crown prince until the curse stripped him of everything: his beauty, his status, his friends. They’re both carrying so much history, and it shows.
I really liked how intelligent Lydia was allowed to be. She knew exactly how people underestimated her and used it as a weapon. She could slip into conversations, pick up on secrets, and read people in ways others completely missed. Damian, too, was such a compelling character. After losing his entire life, he poured everything he had into protecting the only family he had left.
The book was packed with schemes, betrayals, and political maneuvering from every direction, and I loved watching all the different factions plot their assassinations and spy games. I didn't like how Lydia was kept in the dark about so much. It didn't seem fair to me that they waited so long to tell her the whole story. Damian was drawn to her mind as much as her beauty, so it felt really wrong that he didn’t trust her with the truth. The lack of communication between Damian and Lydia got under my skin at times, but it made sense—they’re both guarded, both trying to protect themselves from being hurt again. Still, seeing both perspectives made their misunderstandings extra painful.
But the payoff was worth it. When they finally started working together near the end, using their strengths to outmaneuver the people threatening the empire, it felt so satisfying. They made such a powerful team once they actually let each other in.
This book is fast paced and I loved it!! Check it out of you like romantasy with the following tropes:
🥀 Beauty and the Beast retelling
🥀 Phantom of the Opera vibes
🥀 Victorian romance
🥀 Forced proximity
🥀 High heat
🥀 Court intrigue
🥀 Class difference
🥀 Secret Identity
🥀 Disfigured hero
Lydia has made a name for herself in the Crimson Court—people call her the Beauty Virtue, and not without reason. She’s spent years navigating every kind of encounter with every kind of person, yet even she is caught off guard when a wealthy, enigmatic nobleman requests her company for an evening under two unusual conditions: she may speak only to him, and she must never see his face.
Damian was once the beloved crown prince, admired for his charm and striking looks. Now he lives as a shadow of that man—scarred, avoided, and whispered about. He works behind the scenes to protect his brother, the Emperor, but for one night he’s willing to risk everything just to be near the woman known as Beauty.
What neither expects is how deeply that single encounter will unsettle them. Afterward, they can’t shake the pull between them, and soon they’re drawn into a web of court intrigue, dangerous secrets, and political maneuvering that threatens far more than their hearts.
This story blended so many of my favorite tropes and somehow still managed to feel fresh. One of the things I loved most was how quickly Lydia connected with Damian. Even when everyone else recoiled from him, she didn’t treat him like a monster. She saw the person beneath the scars almost immediately. They were both hesitant to trust—how could they not be? She grew up surviving on the streets, making her own place in a world that never handed her anything. He was once the adored crown prince until the curse stripped him of everything: his beauty, his status, his friends. They’re both carrying so much history, and it shows.
I really liked how intelligent Lydia was allowed to be. She knew exactly how people underestimated her and used it as a weapon. She could slip into conversations, pick up on secrets, and read people in ways others completely missed. Damian, too, was such a compelling character. After losing his entire life, he poured everything he had into protecting the only family he had left.
The book was packed with schemes, betrayals, and political maneuvering from every direction, and I loved watching all the different factions plot their assassinations and spy games. I didn't like how Lydia was kept in the dark about so much. It didn't seem fair to me that they waited so long to tell her the whole story. Damian was drawn to her mind as much as her beauty, so it felt really wrong that he didn’t trust her with the truth. The lack of communication between Damian and Lydia got under my skin at times, but it made sense—they’re both guarded, both trying to protect themselves from being hurt again. Still, seeing both perspectives made their misunderstandings extra painful.
But the payoff was worth it. When they finally started working together near the end, using their strengths to outmaneuver the people threatening the empire, it felt so satisfying. They made such a powerful team once they actually let each other in.
This book is fast paced and I loved it!! Check it out of you like romantasy with the following tropes:
🥀 Beauty and the Beast retelling
🥀 Phantom of the Opera vibes
🥀 Victorian romance
🥀 Forced proximity
🥀 High heat
🥀 Court intrigue
🥀 Class difference
🥀 Secret Identity
🥀 Disfigured hero
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2026
I absolutely loved this story that combines elements of Phantom of the Opera and Beauty and the Beast!
Lydia works as a courtesan and is renowned as the Beauty Virtue of the Crimson Court. As such, she has had many kinds of encounters with all sorts of people. But she is intrigued when a wealthy and mysterious nobleman requests her company for the evening and specifically instructs that she is to speak to no one but him during the evening and she cannot see his face. Damian used to be the handsome and popular crown prince, but now he is a scarred outcast who is generally feared and scorned. He works in the shadows to protect his brother, now the Emperor, but he is willing to put it all at risk to spend one evening with Beauty. After their encounter, both long for more and they find themselves entangled in court intrigue, deadly plots, and political games.
This story combined some of my favorite stories and then transformed them into something new. I loved how Lydia was so empathetic towards Damian almost immediately and did not truly fear him even when others did. They were both wary of trusting one another because of their own histories. She grew up on the streets and had to make her own way, but he was the crown prince until his curse took everything from him leaving him scarred and alone. I also really appreciated how Lydia was portrayed as being so intelligent. She was able to use people's underestimations of her to her own advantage and suss out information that others may have tried to keep hidden. Damian was also such a fascinating character. After losing his title, position, and friends, he devoted himself to protecting the only family that he had left.
There were so many plots and machinations by all sorts of characters in this book. It was so enjoyable to read about how different entities planned various kinds of spying or assassination. It really bothered me how Damian and Xander left Lydia out of planning things at the start especially when Damian seemed to be attracted to her wit and intellect as well as her beauty. The lack of communication between Damian and Lydia did bother me at times, but I could definitely understand why the two of them might have difficulty trusting people. They were both trying to protect themselves, but being able to get both perspectives did make it a bit frustrating as a reader. However, I really liked how they worked together toward the end of the book and were able to outwit some of the other parties wishing harm on the empire.
I received a free advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Lydia works as a courtesan and is renowned as the Beauty Virtue of the Crimson Court. As such, she has had many kinds of encounters with all sorts of people. But she is intrigued when a wealthy and mysterious nobleman requests her company for the evening and specifically instructs that she is to speak to no one but him during the evening and she cannot see his face. Damian used to be the handsome and popular crown prince, but now he is a scarred outcast who is generally feared and scorned. He works in the shadows to protect his brother, now the Emperor, but he is willing to put it all at risk to spend one evening with Beauty. After their encounter, both long for more and they find themselves entangled in court intrigue, deadly plots, and political games.
This story combined some of my favorite stories and then transformed them into something new. I loved how Lydia was so empathetic towards Damian almost immediately and did not truly fear him even when others did. They were both wary of trusting one another because of their own histories. She grew up on the streets and had to make her own way, but he was the crown prince until his curse took everything from him leaving him scarred and alone. I also really appreciated how Lydia was portrayed as being so intelligent. She was able to use people's underestimations of her to her own advantage and suss out information that others may have tried to keep hidden. Damian was also such a fascinating character. After losing his title, position, and friends, he devoted himself to protecting the only family that he had left.
There were so many plots and machinations by all sorts of characters in this book. It was so enjoyable to read about how different entities planned various kinds of spying or assassination. It really bothered me how Damian and Xander left Lydia out of planning things at the start especially when Damian seemed to be attracted to her wit and intellect as well as her beauty. The lack of communication between Damian and Lydia did bother me at times, but I could definitely understand why the two of them might have difficulty trusting people. They were both trying to protect themselves, but being able to get both perspectives did make it a bit frustrating as a reader. However, I really liked how they worked together toward the end of the book and were able to outwit some of the other parties wishing harm on the empire.
I received a free advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
March 6, 2026
I received The Courtesan's Forgotten Prince as an Arc. It was kind of funny how fast it went from me being asked if I wanted to, to having the book!
That being said this book reminded me of a mix of different things. Two anime that come to mind are Snow White with the Red Hair and the Apothecary Diaries because of the politics in both but also the fact that the two female characters are in love with a prince in each as well who have to watch out for assassination attempts. The Apothecary Diaries also has courtesans like this book does, with the main FMC Lydia being the Virtue of Beauty in this book.
There was a unique take to the Beauty and the Beast aspect in this book that I really enjoyed. I can say I have never read it from the perspective of Beauty being a courtesan, she is always a poor village girl or even a hunter/gatherer for their family. The book also gave me a Bridgerton feel when it came to the spice and the banter between Damian and Lydia.
I will say when I first started the book o didn't read the excerpt of what the book was about I had just looked at the tropes and what the author had on her page about it. So I did not realize there was an assassination plot in the book at first but I like how the author weaved it in there. The same goes for the politics in the book surrounding Damian, Xander, and the throne. The politics were not overwhelming and easy to follow.
I loved Lydia. She being a Courtesan knows what is expected of her and she seems to like what she does especially with the Queen of Virtues their and how the Queen doesn't seem to push them to take clients. Lydia is a nice person, despite her past, but can hold her ground. She even saves Damian a few times too.
Damian is a bit different. He is broody, angry, scared, and some may say even broken because of what his curse cost him. He was a handsome prince with a huge social life forced to be alone and in hiding with his only friend being Alexandros. When he meets Lydia, he doesn't want to show his face, but when they enter a contract, she wants to see his face. I feel he has the largest character development due to his feelings about his face and life in the beginning and middle of the book. He believes no one will want him.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. I didn't realize who the assassin was until the very end, there was a few I was thinking it could be but they were wrong. I also liked how Damian and Lydia's relationship formed going throughout the book. There was a little bit of drama towards the end due to Xander, but it got resolved very quickly.
That being said this book reminded me of a mix of different things. Two anime that come to mind are Snow White with the Red Hair and the Apothecary Diaries because of the politics in both but also the fact that the two female characters are in love with a prince in each as well who have to watch out for assassination attempts. The Apothecary Diaries also has courtesans like this book does, with the main FMC Lydia being the Virtue of Beauty in this book.
There was a unique take to the Beauty and the Beast aspect in this book that I really enjoyed. I can say I have never read it from the perspective of Beauty being a courtesan, she is always a poor village girl or even a hunter/gatherer for their family. The book also gave me a Bridgerton feel when it came to the spice and the banter between Damian and Lydia.
I will say when I first started the book o didn't read the excerpt of what the book was about I had just looked at the tropes and what the author had on her page about it. So I did not realize there was an assassination plot in the book at first but I like how the author weaved it in there. The same goes for the politics in the book surrounding Damian, Xander, and the throne. The politics were not overwhelming and easy to follow.
I loved Lydia. She being a Courtesan knows what is expected of her and she seems to like what she does especially with the Queen of Virtues their and how the Queen doesn't seem to push them to take clients. Lydia is a nice person, despite her past, but can hold her ground. She even saves Damian a few times too.
Damian is a bit different. He is broody, angry, scared, and some may say even broken because of what his curse cost him. He was a handsome prince with a huge social life forced to be alone and in hiding with his only friend being Alexandros. When he meets Lydia, he doesn't want to show his face, but when they enter a contract, she wants to see his face. I feel he has the largest character development due to his feelings about his face and life in the beginning and middle of the book. He believes no one will want him.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. I didn't realize who the assassin was until the very end, there was a few I was thinking it could be but they were wrong. I also liked how Damian and Lydia's relationship formed going throughout the book. There was a little bit of drama towards the end due to Xander, but it got resolved very quickly.
Review of advance copy received from Author
In Megan Mackie’s The Courtesan’s Forgotten Prince, readers are swept into a world that evokes the lush, atmospheric "vibes" of 16th-century England, blending the classic bones of Beauty and the Beast with the shadowed mystery of The Phantom of the Opera.
Lydia, a renowned "Virtue" of the Crimson Court, is no stranger to the dangerous liaisons of her profession, yet she finds herself uniquely intrigued by an invitation from an enigmatic nobleman. Damian, once an Imperial crown prince, has been reduced to a shadow of his former self—disfigured by a curse and stripped of his status.
He hires Lydia not merely for her body, but for the intellect and companionship he has lacked in his self-imposed exile. However, the arrangement comes with one haunting stipulation: she must never look upon his face.
What begins as a transactional arrangement quickly evolves into something far more complex as Lydia becomes a balm for Damian’s profound loneliness. While the narrative thrives on a "slow burn" romance, it skillfully avoids becoming a one-dimensional retelling by weaving in a high-stakes subplot involving political machinations and assassination attempts.
This infusion of action and intrigue keeps the pacing sharp, ensuring that the story is as much about unraveling a conspiracy as it is about the hearts of the two protagonists. The writing style is immersive and sophisticated, drawing the reader deep into the courtly drama and the heavy atmosphere of the shadows Damian inhabits.
Though the "push and pull" of their relationship offers moments of tension, some may find themselves wishing for even deeper emotional development between Lydia and Damian to fully cement their connection.
However, the story more than compensates for this with refreshing deviations from standard fairy tale tropes. Rather than following a predictable path, the plot takes unexpected turns that culminate in a truly surprising ending. It is a delightful, polished read that leaves one feeling more sophisticated for having experienced it—and hopeful that this is only the beginning of a larger series exploring the Crimson Court.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lydia, a renowned "Virtue" of the Crimson Court, is no stranger to the dangerous liaisons of her profession, yet she finds herself uniquely intrigued by an invitation from an enigmatic nobleman. Damian, once an Imperial crown prince, has been reduced to a shadow of his former self—disfigured by a curse and stripped of his status.
He hires Lydia not merely for her body, but for the intellect and companionship he has lacked in his self-imposed exile. However, the arrangement comes with one haunting stipulation: she must never look upon his face.
What begins as a transactional arrangement quickly evolves into something far more complex as Lydia becomes a balm for Damian’s profound loneliness. While the narrative thrives on a "slow burn" romance, it skillfully avoids becoming a one-dimensional retelling by weaving in a high-stakes subplot involving political machinations and assassination attempts.
This infusion of action and intrigue keeps the pacing sharp, ensuring that the story is as much about unraveling a conspiracy as it is about the hearts of the two protagonists. The writing style is immersive and sophisticated, drawing the reader deep into the courtly drama and the heavy atmosphere of the shadows Damian inhabits.
Though the "push and pull" of their relationship offers moments of tension, some may find themselves wishing for even deeper emotional development between Lydia and Damian to fully cement their connection.
However, the story more than compensates for this with refreshing deviations from standard fairy tale tropes. Rather than following a predictable path, the plot takes unexpected turns that culminate in a truly surprising ending. It is a delightful, polished read that leaves one feeling more sophisticated for having experienced it—and hopeful that this is only the beginning of a larger series exploring the Crimson Court.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2026
This book absolutely delivered on its premise: a combination of Beauty and the Beast & the Phantom of the Opera, but combined with the political intrigue, wide array of conflicting characters, and immersive world building, it’s become one of my favourite reads this month!
Lydia is such a strong, determined FMC, but is incredibly nuanced and this shows through her acknowledgement of being used as a decoration almost, where her beauty is often seen as her entire personality.
Damian would have to be my favourite character. His empathy, emotional openness, and desire for wanting the best for his subjects makes him such a sensitive but morally driven MMC. And as I always adore the fictional men who are self-conscious of their appearance, Damian’s personality is a refreshing take on the MMC archetype!
{Review Summary}
💟 The Courtesan’s Forgotten Prince
👩💻 Megan Mackie
❤️🔥🧚♀️ Romantasy
🎭🐦🔥💔 Phantom of the Opera-esque, Beauty & the Beast, magical creatures, and just a touch of forbidden love
💫 Such a refreshing take on the Romantasy genre, and definitely a favourite read!
🍆 3+ open door scenes, and I would say unskippable because the character depth in their communication during these is incredibly important.
Lydia is such a strong, determined FMC, but is incredibly nuanced and this shows through her acknowledgement of being used as a decoration almost, where her beauty is often seen as her entire personality.
Damian would have to be my favourite character. His empathy, emotional openness, and desire for wanting the best for his subjects makes him such a sensitive but morally driven MMC. And as I always adore the fictional men who are self-conscious of their appearance, Damian’s personality is a refreshing take on the MMC archetype!
{Review Summary}
💟 The Courtesan’s Forgotten Prince
👩💻 Megan Mackie
❤️🔥🧚♀️ Romantasy
🎭🐦🔥💔 Phantom of the Opera-esque, Beauty & the Beast, magical creatures, and just a touch of forbidden love
💫 Such a refreshing take on the Romantasy genre, and definitely a favourite read!
🍆 3+ open door scenes, and I would say unskippable because the character depth in their communication during these is incredibly important.
February 19, 2026
This was a very good Beauty and The Beast retelling with a touch of Phantom of the Opera elements.
This was a first courtesan’s book for me and it took a little to get into it. But once I got invested in these characters I truly loved them! Lydia was known as The Beauty within the crimson court. When she gets an invite for a night with a mysterious man she is very intrigued on who it might be. So when she gets picked up and travels through dark tunnels she is a little scared but excited. Then she comes face to mask with her mysterious man.
Damian was once a handsome prince. He wanted for nothing and had all the women he could have asked for. Then one day he turns into what they call the shadow man. Is it a curse that changes him or something else.
I truly loved Damian and how he was with Lydia from the very beginning. Lydia also was very sweet but it took me a little longer to like her character. She did change my thoughts on her at the end, with how she treated Damian. Only thing is I wish we had more at the end. I felt like the ending just ended lol. I wanted more an epilogue or something lol.
.
.
.
4️⃣⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
❤️❤️❤️❤️
6/10 recommendation
This was a first courtesan’s book for me and it took a little to get into it. But once I got invested in these characters I truly loved them! Lydia was known as The Beauty within the crimson court. When she gets an invite for a night with a mysterious man she is very intrigued on who it might be. So when she gets picked up and travels through dark tunnels she is a little scared but excited. Then she comes face to mask with her mysterious man.
Damian was once a handsome prince. He wanted for nothing and had all the women he could have asked for. Then one day he turns into what they call the shadow man. Is it a curse that changes him or something else.
I truly loved Damian and how he was with Lydia from the very beginning. Lydia also was very sweet but it took me a little longer to like her character. She did change my thoughts on her at the end, with how she treated Damian. Only thing is I wish we had more at the end. I felt like the ending just ended lol. I wanted more an epilogue or something lol.
.
.
.
4️⃣⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
❤️❤️❤️❤️
6/10 recommendation
February 26, 2026
Lydia, the Beauty Courtesan of the Crimson Court (red light district), receives an intriguing offer from a mysterious suitor. This mysterious suitor is in fact the imperial crown prince who became horribly disfigured after an awful illness. Not only did he lose his status as heir, he lost his social world in which he was a true leader. After their initial night together, our FMC and MMC find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other. They enter into a contract that will bind them together for better or worse.
This is a fast burn tale that reminds me of The Phantom of the Opera meets Beauty and the Beast meets Bridgerton. This book has twists and turns galore and ends with an unexpected plot twist. There is a loveable cast of side characters, and even an appearance from a mythical creature. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found the writing style very easy to follow. This is an excellent quick read for in between those high fantasy and dark romance books we all love.
This is a fast burn tale that reminds me of The Phantom of the Opera meets Beauty and the Beast meets Bridgerton. This book has twists and turns galore and ends with an unexpected plot twist. There is a loveable cast of side characters, and even an appearance from a mythical creature. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found the writing style very easy to follow. This is an excellent quick read for in between those high fantasy and dark romance books we all love.
February 27, 2026
I really enjoyed this story even if there were times when I wasn't sure that I would. There were many ups and downs of emotion from beginning to end which I enjoy. I liked the main characters and the supporting ones as well, they really kept you guessing at times. I had a feeling about who was behind the attacks because I just wanted a reason to dislike them and ended up being right. I enjoyed the fantastical elements even though they were few. This had a beauty and the beast vibe for sure but the transformation at the end does not come in the way you expect and the curse is not a magical one. There were plenty of spice scenes and they were staged in the way of the time period. The story ended in a wild way, not a cliffhanger but in a way that made you want more. I would have loved an epilogue that showed Lydia and Damian years down the road, maybe with children and living happily ever after.
March 5, 2026
the courtesan’s forgotten prince by megan mackie
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice level for me: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
at the very beginning i wasn’t completely hooked yet, but about a quarter of the way in things really started picking up and once it did the twists and turns did not stop. there were multiple moments where i genuinely did not see things coming.
the vibe felt like beauty and the beast mixed with phantom of the opera and it made the story feel really dramatic and emotional in the best way.
i especially loved watching lydia and damian’s relationship develop throughout the book. their dynamic had me rooting for them the whole time and some parts really felt like an emotional rollercoaster.
overall this one blends fantasy, romance, and a little bit of thriller energy and i ended up really enjoying it. definitely one i would recommend if you like romantasy with drama, tension, and a good amount of spice.
have you read this one yet or are you adding it to your tbr right now?! 🤭🤭
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice level for me: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
at the very beginning i wasn’t completely hooked yet, but about a quarter of the way in things really started picking up and once it did the twists and turns did not stop. there were multiple moments where i genuinely did not see things coming.
the vibe felt like beauty and the beast mixed with phantom of the opera and it made the story feel really dramatic and emotional in the best way.
i especially loved watching lydia and damian’s relationship develop throughout the book. their dynamic had me rooting for them the whole time and some parts really felt like an emotional rollercoaster.
overall this one blends fantasy, romance, and a little bit of thriller energy and i ended up really enjoying it. definitely one i would recommend if you like romantasy with drama, tension, and a good amount of spice.
have you read this one yet or are you adding it to your tbr right now?! 🤭🤭
March 6, 2026
This was an intriguing take on a combination of classic tropes: Beauty & the Beast and Phantom of the Opera set in a time period analogous to Victorian England from the perspective of a courtesan. Mackie sets this story in a queer normative world and wrote about sex work in a way that reflected it’s often harsh and dangerous realities while shining a positive light on sex workers or courtesans themselves, bringing a progressive lens to a Victorian setting.
While I enjoyed multiple aspects of The Courtesan’s Forgotten Prince it unfortunately did not live up to my hopes when it came to worldbuilding, plot consistency (i.e. plot holes), and character consistency (i.e. characters reacting to situations in direct contrast to earlier stated/shown traits, ethics, or ideals). If you are looking for a sex positive, spicy vibes read this may be one that you would enjoy and rate higher than I did though as we each have different preferences!
While I enjoyed multiple aspects of The Courtesan’s Forgotten Prince it unfortunately did not live up to my hopes when it came to worldbuilding, plot consistency (i.e. plot holes), and character consistency (i.e. characters reacting to situations in direct contrast to earlier stated/shown traits, ethics, or ideals). If you are looking for a sex positive, spicy vibes read this may be one that you would enjoy and rate higher than I did though as we each have different preferences!
March 23, 2026
I was hooked from the beginning. It started out mysterious and compelling. I had to keep reading, which is a great start to a new book.
Lydia the main FMC has been approached to become a private courtesan for a male who she is not allowed to see his face. Lydia would only agree to his terms if she could see his face.
As the story unfolded the excitement escalated and the pace really went up a notch. Lydia and the male in question, Damian, just made this story. They are such likable characters and as we delved deeper into the read the more I bonded with these two and felt their pain and heartache. Then the added spice just put the cherry on the cake for me and has led to one of my favourite reads this year!
Don't hesitate to read or add to the tbr if you love Beauty & Beast retelling or Phantom of the Opera this book shows them vibes.
It was such a privilege to have been able to read and review The Courtesan's Forgotten Prince by Megan Mackie.
Lydia the main FMC has been approached to become a private courtesan for a male who she is not allowed to see his face. Lydia would only agree to his terms if she could see his face.
As the story unfolded the excitement escalated and the pace really went up a notch. Lydia and the male in question, Damian, just made this story. They are such likable characters and as we delved deeper into the read the more I bonded with these two and felt their pain and heartache. Then the added spice just put the cherry on the cake for me and has led to one of my favourite reads this year!
Don't hesitate to read or add to the tbr if you love Beauty & Beast retelling or Phantom of the Opera this book shows them vibes.
It was such a privilege to have been able to read and review The Courtesan's Forgotten Prince by Megan Mackie.
February 15, 2026
Thank you for the arc of The Courtesans Forgotten Prince. Imagine beauty and the beast with a phantom of the opera twist then add beauty being a courtesan.
The book was a fun twist on both stories. It was full of action and political intrigue. There were times I thought I knew what was going to happen and then I was surprised. I was actually really surprised with the ending.
I wished the relationship had more build between the FMC and MMC with more tension. There was some push and pull but I just didn’t connect fully with their relationship.
I do like that it didn’t go the way I thought it would in the end. It deviates from the standard stories which is refreshing.
🐦🔥 Beauty and the Beast mixed with Phantom of the Opera
🐦🔥 Political/Court Intrigue
🐦🔥 Disfigured hero/MMC
🐦🔥 Mystery
🐦🔥 Secret identity
🐦🔥 Forced proximity
The book was a fun twist on both stories. It was full of action and political intrigue. There were times I thought I knew what was going to happen and then I was surprised. I was actually really surprised with the ending.
I wished the relationship had more build between the FMC and MMC with more tension. There was some push and pull but I just didn’t connect fully with their relationship.
I do like that it didn’t go the way I thought it would in the end. It deviates from the standard stories which is refreshing.
🐦🔥 Beauty and the Beast mixed with Phantom of the Opera
🐦🔥 Political/Court Intrigue
🐦🔥 Disfigured hero/MMC
🐦🔥 Mystery
🐦🔥 Secret identity
🐦🔥 Forced proximity
March 2, 2026
This story evokes Pretty Woman, Phantom of the Opera, Beauty and the Beast, Game of Thrones, and the Bridgerton series. The MMC has hangups on his looks and feels the need to seek his desires from a courtesan (FMC). All while trying to solve a murder plot against his emperor.
The romance scenes are spicy! Easily 4 peppers. This is definitely where the book excels.
The relationship between the MMC and FMC developed slowly at first and then came together a bit awkwardly, in my opinion. Lack of communication between the two held them both at bay for a while, but I don't always like the "accidentally communicate everything while out of my mind" way of bridging the gap.
The murder plot was also a bit out of left field - I kinda forgot about it during the first 2/3 of the book.
Overall, I'm interested in where this series will go.
EDIT: Advanced Reader Copy
The romance scenes are spicy! Easily 4 peppers. This is definitely where the book excels.
The relationship between the MMC and FMC developed slowly at first and then came together a bit awkwardly, in my opinion. Lack of communication between the two held them both at bay for a while, but I don't always like the "accidentally communicate everything while out of my mind" way of bridging the gap.
The murder plot was also a bit out of left field - I kinda forgot about it during the first 2/3 of the book.
Overall, I'm interested in where this series will go.
EDIT: Advanced Reader Copy
March 8, 2026
Huge thanks to Megan Mackie for the ARC!
This is a creative retelling that blends Beauty and the Beast with Phantom of the Opera, and it does a great job weaving elements of both stories together. It took me a little while to get fully immersed, but once I was in, I was hooked!
Lydia, known as “The Beauty” of the Crimson Court, receives an invitation for a private evening with a mysterious patron she can’t stop wondering about. When she arrives, she meets Damian, a masked man, who was once a handsome prince.
I loved watching Lydia and Damian’s relationship grow throughout the story. Their romance unfolds naturally, with plenty of tension and drama to keep things interesting!
If you enjoy, the following this book is definitely for you:
• Forced proximity
• Secret identity
• Political and court intrigue
• Assassination attempts
• Masked hero
This is a creative retelling that blends Beauty and the Beast with Phantom of the Opera, and it does a great job weaving elements of both stories together. It took me a little while to get fully immersed, but once I was in, I was hooked!
Lydia, known as “The Beauty” of the Crimson Court, receives an invitation for a private evening with a mysterious patron she can’t stop wondering about. When she arrives, she meets Damian, a masked man, who was once a handsome prince.
I loved watching Lydia and Damian’s relationship grow throughout the story. Their romance unfolds naturally, with plenty of tension and drama to keep things interesting!
If you enjoy, the following this book is definitely for you:
• Forced proximity
• Secret identity
• Political and court intrigue
• Assassination attempts
• Masked hero
Review of advance copy received from Author
This cozy romantasy with Beauty and the Beast vibes crossed with The Phantom of the Opera, had me on the edge of my seat. I ate this book up! I loved how the FMC Lydia knew how to play the games the royal court played but was also unafraid to stand up for herself and have the strength to do whatever was necessary to survive. Give me tall, dark, and scary Damion any day. He is fierce, possessive, and lonely, this man just wanted to be loved, he did not ask to be cursed.
If you love these vibes I definitely recommend adding this to your 2026 TBR. This was my first Megan Mackie book and I can’t wait to read more, thank you so much for the opportunity to be an arc reader for you! Run now and add this you won’t regret it!
If you love these vibes I definitely recommend adding this to your 2026 TBR. This was my first Megan Mackie book and I can’t wait to read more, thank you so much for the opportunity to be an arc reader for you! Run now and add this you won’t regret it!
March 2, 2026
Advance Reader Copy received by the Author
Victorian era, Phantom of the Opera meets Beauty and the Beast. A masked Prince, Rags to Riches, Royal Courts, Courtesans, Assassins.
An intriguing read!
Welcome to the Undercourt!
Lydia, a highly sought out master of LoveCraft is selected by a Prince in hiding, cloaked in secrets and a life lived in shadows.
Damien, the older brother of the unwed Emperor, not living the typical line of succession, desperately seeking human connection.
A Romantasy where you can’t help but fall in love with both the FMC and the MMC, and even develop a soft spot for the side characters. Follow down into the depths of the Undercourt, below the Imperial City, where love blooms 🖤
Victorian era, Phantom of the Opera meets Beauty and the Beast. A masked Prince, Rags to Riches, Royal Courts, Courtesans, Assassins.
An intriguing read!
Welcome to the Undercourt!
Lydia, a highly sought out master of LoveCraft is selected by a Prince in hiding, cloaked in secrets and a life lived in shadows.
Damien, the older brother of the unwed Emperor, not living the typical line of succession, desperately seeking human connection.
A Romantasy where you can’t help but fall in love with both the FMC and the MMC, and even develop a soft spot for the side characters. Follow down into the depths of the Undercourt, below the Imperial City, where love blooms 🖤
March 4, 2026
I was drawn to this book by the premise, but it was the world building that did keep me interested. As soon as I started reading, I did get a vivid image of what everyone looked like and the locations. So, there is that as it shows that the author can write and build a story.
Where Lydia and Damian are concerned, they shared a slow burn romance. It took them time to get to know each other better but trusting one another and letting their guard down. It did feel like these two were forming a genuine connection. I will admit that my attachment to them was a slow growing one.
It took me quite some time to feel like I was engaging and focusing. The last third of the story is where the pacing picked up for me better. While I may not have "loved" the book, I still did "like" it.
Where Lydia and Damian are concerned, they shared a slow burn romance. It took them time to get to know each other better but trusting one another and letting their guard down. It did feel like these two were forming a genuine connection. I will admit that my attachment to them was a slow growing one.
It took me quite some time to feel like I was engaging and focusing. The last third of the story is where the pacing picked up for me better. While I may not have "loved" the book, I still did "like" it.
May 16, 2026
This was my first read by this author and I really liked the concept behind this storyline. The whole forgotten heir, shadowy court politics and gothic atmosphere made it feel really different from a lot of romantasy I’ve picked up lately.
For me, this was more of a character and atmosphere driven story than an action-heavy one. Damian’s pain and isolation came through well and I liked the dynamic between him and Lydia as trust slowly started building between them. The writing had a very immersive, moody feel to it that fit the story perfectly.
That said, some parts felt a little slower than I wanted and I wasn’t fully emotionally connected the entire time. Still a solid read though if you enjoy darker romantasy with emotional tension and gothic vibes.
3.5
For me, this was more of a character and atmosphere driven story than an action-heavy one. Damian’s pain and isolation came through well and I liked the dynamic between him and Lydia as trust slowly started building between them. The writing had a very immersive, moody feel to it that fit the story perfectly.
That said, some parts felt a little slower than I wanted and I wasn’t fully emotionally connected the entire time. Still a solid read though if you enjoy darker romantasy with emotional tension and gothic vibes.
3.5
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the ARC!
This story starts strong and pulls you in immediately with intrigue, tension, and a dynamic that works from the very beginning. I loved Lydia - she’s layered, intelligent, and more emotionally broken than she even realizes. Damian is equally fractured, and their chemistry felt natural and intense.
The pacing is smooth and very readable - it flows quickly and keeps the drama and secrets coming. If you enjoy historical settings with a hint of fantasy, court intrigue, secret identities, and emotional tension, this will absolutely work for you.
A dramatic, immersive romance with strong character dynamics and plenty of heat.
This story starts strong and pulls you in immediately with intrigue, tension, and a dynamic that works from the very beginning. I loved Lydia - she’s layered, intelligent, and more emotionally broken than she even realizes. Damian is equally fractured, and their chemistry felt natural and intense.
The pacing is smooth and very readable - it flows quickly and keeps the drama and secrets coming. If you enjoy historical settings with a hint of fantasy, court intrigue, secret identities, and emotional tension, this will absolutely work for you.
A dramatic, immersive romance with strong character dynamics and plenty of heat.
March 2, 2026
Sorrow. Status. Secrets. Shadow wrapped love.
This book swept me into a fairytale world where the stories blend in an intriguingly lush way; Phantom of the Opera meets Beauty and the Beast, with a touch of Moulin Rouge and Memoirs of a Geisha. It is a dramatic, mysterious, and emotionally tense story where light endures in the darkest places. The character development was great. The writing style gives the setting a rich, emotional, theatrical feel without making it feel too heavy. It flowed beautifully, keeping me happily reading start to finish.
If you like a fairytale with a twist of darkness, passion, and sorrow - where beauty, secrecy, and status hide something broken – this is a fabulous choice.
Thank you Megan Mackie for the ARC opportunity!
This book swept me into a fairytale world where the stories blend in an intriguingly lush way; Phantom of the Opera meets Beauty and the Beast, with a touch of Moulin Rouge and Memoirs of a Geisha. It is a dramatic, mysterious, and emotionally tense story where light endures in the darkest places. The character development was great. The writing style gives the setting a rich, emotional, theatrical feel without making it feel too heavy. It flowed beautifully, keeping me happily reading start to finish.
If you like a fairytale with a twist of darkness, passion, and sorrow - where beauty, secrecy, and status hide something broken – this is a fabulous choice.
Thank you Megan Mackie for the ARC opportunity!
Review of advance copy
This love story is an intriguing combination retelling of Beauty and the Beast and Phantom of the Opera, yet manages to create a refreshing take on both. I enjoyed the characters, the old world vibes, and the sense of mystery and danger. There is a slow burn romance going on, but I liked the inclusion of so many other elements to keep it interesting. This novel is an enjoyable escape into a different time and place with the pages practically turning themselves.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2026
I have always loved The Phantom of the Opera, so when the opportunity arose to review this book I jumped at the chance.
I loved Damien.
You always hear of the big bossy alphas but Damien is almost shy and timid. I loved that. It was a different type of hero in my opinion but it didn't make him weak or anything the like. He was protective of Lydia and their chemistry was off the charts.
Lydia....well I had a slight love-hate relationship with her. I enjoyed her character but would roll my eyes at some of the thoughts going through her head a times.
The writing took me a bit to get into. Not that it's bad just very different than my usual reads.
Overall I really enjoyed this book with all the little magic, intrigue, mystery and suspense. Truly a great introduction to this author.
I loved Damien.
You always hear of the big bossy alphas but Damien is almost shy and timid. I loved that. It was a different type of hero in my opinion but it didn't make him weak or anything the like. He was protective of Lydia and their chemistry was off the charts.
Lydia....well I had a slight love-hate relationship with her. I enjoyed her character but would roll my eyes at some of the thoughts going through her head a times.
The writing took me a bit to get into. Not that it's bad just very different than my usual reads.
Overall I really enjoyed this book with all the little magic, intrigue, mystery and suspense. Truly a great introduction to this author.
March 5, 2026
This is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, fantasy romance with regency vibes. Amazing world building that is detailed and imaginative and so well done that you're drawn into a fantastic world unlike any other. Strong, interesting, and fascinating characters that are well developed and diverse. The storyline is very well written. This review is based on an early review copy I was sent by the publisher, but this didn't affect the content of my review that I am voluntarily providing.
February 24, 2026
This was a fun retelling of Beauty and the Beast with beautiful imagery of a wonderful, albeit tarnished, world. I loved seeing the growth of the characters and getting backstories in such a natural way. Semi-predictable ending but in a good way. Overall, a very fun read with nice touches of mystic and magic.
March 6, 2026
This is a Beauty and the Beast retelling with a touch of Phantom of the Opera and I enjoyed it. Lydia is the Beauty Virtue of the Crimson Court. Damian is a prince who was once set to be the next Emperor until he became disfigured and was basically forgotten. The chemistry between the two of them was enticing and I enjoyed their interactions
February 28, 2026
I don’t think I was the target audience for this one.
The writing was a bit stiff, but fit with the time period it was meant for.
If you enjoy historical romance, phantom of the opera, and beauty and the beast, this might be for you.
Definitely interesting, but not something I personally enjoyed.
The writing was a bit stiff, but fit with the time period it was meant for.
If you enjoy historical romance, phantom of the opera, and beauty and the beast, this might be for you.
Definitely interesting, but not something I personally enjoyed.
February 27, 2026
As a girly who always wished Christine had chose the Phantom this book was more than everything I wanted it to be! The Phantom of the Opera and Beauty and the Beast vibes are spot on! This has a large amazing mysterious plot that is giving whodunnit vibes! It was a fantastic book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews