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Chronicles of Tournai #1
The Prince's Consort
Legends tell of large cats defending the principality of Tournai, but such creatures have been lost to time.
Or have they?
Prince Philip inherited the throne at a young age, and since then, his life has centered around ruling his country and resisting those pressuring him to take a wife and conceive an heir—forcing him to hide his attraction to men. When kind-hearted Amory is offered to the prince in exchange for more time for Amory’s father to complete a commission, both Philip and Amory are horrified. But Philip agrees to keep Amory at the palace, where they gradually become friends, then lovers. For the first time in his life, Philip is free to share not only his heart, but the magical shape-shifting ability that runs in the royal bloodline.
Neither Amory nor Philip imagined falling in love, and they certainly don’t expect the lengths those who oppose their relationship will go to keep them apart—maybe even resorting to murder.
Or have they?
Prince Philip inherited the throne at a young age, and since then, his life has centered around ruling his country and resisting those pressuring him to take a wife and conceive an heir—forcing him to hide his attraction to men. When kind-hearted Amory is offered to the prince in exchange for more time for Amory’s father to complete a commission, both Philip and Amory are horrified. But Philip agrees to keep Amory at the palace, where they gradually become friends, then lovers. For the first time in his life, Philip is free to share not only his heart, but the magical shape-shifting ability that runs in the royal bloodline.
Neither Amory nor Philip imagined falling in love, and they certainly don’t expect the lengths those who oppose their relationship will go to keep them apart—maybe even resorting to murder.
290 pages, Paperback
First published October 16, 2015
33 people are currently reading
593 people want to read
About the author
Antonia Aquilante
13 books87 followersAntonia Aquilante has been making up stories for as long as she can remember, and at the age of twelve, decided she would be a writer when she grew up. After many years and a few career detours, she has returned to that original plan. Her stories have changed over the years, but one thing has remained consistent - they all end in happily ever after.
She has a fondness for travel (and a long list of places she wants to visit and revisit), taking photos, family history, fabulous shoes, baking treats which she shares with friends and family, and of course reading. She usually has at least two books started at once and never goes anywhere without her Kindle. Though she is a convert to ebooks, she still loves paper books the best, and there are a couple thousand of them residing in her home with her.
Born and raised in New Jersey, she is living there again after years in Washington, DC, and North Carolina for school and work. She enjoys being back in the Garden State but admits to being tempted every so often to run away from home and live in Italy.
She is a member of the Romance Writers of America and the New Jersey Romance Writers.
She has a fondness for travel (and a long list of places she wants to visit and revisit), taking photos, family history, fabulous shoes, baking treats which she shares with friends and family, and of course reading. She usually has at least two books started at once and never goes anywhere without her Kindle. Though she is a convert to ebooks, she still loves paper books the best, and there are a couple thousand of them residing in her home with her.
Born and raised in New Jersey, she is living there again after years in Washington, DC, and North Carolina for school and work. She enjoys being back in the Garden State but admits to being tempted every so often to run away from home and live in Italy.
She is a member of the Romance Writers of America and the New Jersey Romance Writers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
October 22, 2015
So, I am still new to this whole world of things that are fantasy and such. I saw this book and of course, a ginger on the cover caught my eye, but the blurb intrigued me. When I saw the additional tags on the site I pre-ordered it from I was worried because pregnant boys were WAY outta my comfort zone but that is my jam this year, so I went for it.
This was different. When I finally wrapped my muddled brain around the fact that this read as a historical but it was fantasy and the people having magical talents, was the norm, I was able to settle in and enjoy it.
Phillip is the Prince of Tournai. It's his job to rule and do what's best. You know, marry, produce heirs and all those princely things that are his responsibilities. But Phillip, he likes boys and doesn't care to have an heir because he knows his mind and has all of that taken care of with is family. But one day, when he meets with the man who is totally slacking on the creation of a chandelier (did he ever get the chandelier btw? Did I miss that somewhere?) he meets a young ginger boy who makes an impression.
Amory is said ginger and Amory is brought with his father, which he never is brought along, to see the prince. Amory was just caught making out with his BFF and dear dad is not happy so what does daddy do? He drags his son along and whores him out to the prince in exchange for extra time to get the chandelier finsihed. It's all kinds of WTFery for a bit but Phillip, he's a good guy and thinks Amory's dad is a douchenugget and suggests Amory stay at the palace and they get better acquainted.
Deal is sealed with a kiss. Daddy is sent away and the boys, they get to know one another.
Now, I liked this story but I am still trying to figure a few things out. There was a lot going on with Phillip being able to change into a cat with his talent... which I found utterly adorable when he did it and lounged around with Amory, and yet. I just dunno.
The relationship with Amory and Phillip was sweet and overprotective. The sex was decent and glossed over more than not but I am not one to cry foul over lack of on page sex. My mind is still spinning from all that was in the story because there was a lot going on and this book felt longer than 290 pages.
Again, I think this was more me than the book. The writing was descriptive and fine but I should probably stick to one outta my comfort zone situation singularly from now on and not throwing them all together in one story. My OCD was having panic attacks trying to keep it all straight.
The second book, I am curious about it though it's not who I thought it would be about. I may pick it up but for now, I can officially say I read a book with a boy being pregnant and having a baby so, go me.
This was different. When I finally wrapped my muddled brain around the fact that this read as a historical but it was fantasy and the people having magical talents, was the norm, I was able to settle in and enjoy it.
Phillip is the Prince of Tournai. It's his job to rule and do what's best. You know, marry, produce heirs and all those princely things that are his responsibilities. But Phillip, he likes boys and doesn't care to have an heir because he knows his mind and has all of that taken care of with is family. But one day, when he meets with the man who is totally slacking on the creation of a chandelier (did he ever get the chandelier btw? Did I miss that somewhere?) he meets a young ginger boy who makes an impression.
Amory is said ginger and Amory is brought with his father, which he never is brought along, to see the prince. Amory was just caught making out with his BFF and dear dad is not happy so what does daddy do? He drags his son along and whores him out to the prince in exchange for extra time to get the chandelier finsihed. It's all kinds of WTFery for a bit but Phillip, he's a good guy and thinks Amory's dad is a douchenugget and suggests Amory stay at the palace and they get better acquainted.
Deal is sealed with a kiss. Daddy is sent away and the boys, they get to know one another.
Now, I liked this story but I am still trying to figure a few things out. There was a lot going on with Phillip being able to change into a cat with his talent... which I found utterly adorable when he did it and lounged around with Amory, and yet. I just dunno.
The relationship with Amory and Phillip was sweet and overprotective. The sex was decent and glossed over more than not but I am not one to cry foul over lack of on page sex. My mind is still spinning from all that was in the story because there was a lot going on and this book felt longer than 290 pages.
Again, I think this was more me than the book. The writing was descriptive and fine but I should probably stick to one outta my comfort zone situation singularly from now on and not throwing them all together in one story. My OCD was having panic attacks trying to keep it all straight.
The second book, I am curious about it though it's not who I thought it would be about. I may pick it up but for now, I can officially say I read a book with a boy being pregnant and having a baby so, go me.
November 15, 2015
Do not go in to The Prince’s Consort thinking high fantasy and lots of world building because you’ll be disappointed. Go in looking for a character driven alt-historical fantasy romance with lots of kissing (lots of it) and hand holding, with a little bit of steam – only a little bit – and you’ll be much happier. I downloaded a sample before I bought this book and based on the sample, and my mood, I liked it enough to purchase it – and I can obtain DSP e-books as review copies, but I wanted to add this one to my personal folder. If you’re interested, then I suggest you download a sample and see if it grabs you too... because the sample is pretty indicative of the rest of the book. Nice romantic gay fantasy reading.
More in-depth review at -
More in-depth review at -
January 28, 2018
The first chapter, maybe part of the second too, was great. I thought the book was promising, but as soon as the prince (why was he a prince and not a king? @.o) took Amory into his chambers for a talk, that was it. Insta-love with myriads of kisses from there and on.
Nothing's happening in the first part of the book, while the second is full of drama: "don't do it, you'll die!!!" and "no I have to do it or you will die!!!" and "I can't stand to see you die!!!" and "I have to do it, even if I die, cause no one else is here to help!!!" with slight variations. The MCs are constantly injured and spend weeks in bed suffering their suffers and doing nothing.
The world building is non-existent.
The cat-shifter element is close to non-existent.
The MPREG element is minimal. Amory got pregnant, he had some morning sickness(we were told), he was uncomfortable, he had a baby - painlessly, no less.
If you are a fan of male pregnancy, let me refer you to Black Snow. Not only it has world-building, real adventures and characters with personality, but the significant portion of the book is devoted to Snow being pregnant. Descriptions are vivid, details are plentiful and very close to the real non-male thing. Just a little warning: the medical tools are somewhat modern ;) And the Cover! Love the Cover ♥
Another rec: if you want a book matching it's cover (and the other way around), read Queer Magick :)
Nothing's happening in the first part of the book, while the second is full of drama: "don't do it, you'll die!!!" and "no I have to do it or you will die!!!" and "I can't stand to see you die!!!" and "I have to do it, even if I die, cause no one else is here to help!!!" with slight variations. The MCs are constantly injured and spend weeks in bed suffering their suffers and doing nothing.
The world building is non-existent.
The cat-shifter element is close to non-existent.
The MPREG element is minimal. Amory got pregnant, he had some morning sickness(we were told), he was uncomfortable, he had a baby - painlessly, no less.
If you are a fan of male pregnancy, let me refer you to Black Snow. Not only it has world-building, real adventures and characters with personality, but the significant portion of the book is devoted to Snow being pregnant. Descriptions are vivid, details are plentiful and very close to the real non-male thing. Just a little warning: the medical tools are somewhat modern ;) And the Cover! Love the Cover ♥
Another rec: if you want a book matching it's cover (and the other way around), read Queer Magick :)
August 3, 2016
The start was overly sweet but promising when Amory's father tries to whore out his son to gain favors from crown prince Philip but the story is using this cold infamy only to introduce Amory to Philip and give them a reason to move together.
This scene is stetting the mood for the complete story that shows only simple causality. There is nothing complex and unfortunately there is next to no world building. The prince has the ability to shift into a big black cat - so what, it only means that Amory has a pet addionally to his lover. Later in the story there are Talents i.e. magical abilities and even sorcery - but there is no concept to it or showing what an effect it has for the society, seems it's only there to sooth the effects of the assassinations later on and of course for a certain other case.
I very early said goodbye to the idea that I'm reading a fantasy novel. It's a romance disguised as fantasy but for a romance as simple and angst-free as this it's much too long although it was easy to go with the flow of the story because it doesn't demand much attention if any at all.
My main concern where I nearly reget my decision to read along until the end was the case where sorcery and talent became handy:
This scene is stetting the mood for the complete story that shows only simple causality. There is nothing complex and unfortunately there is next to no world building. The prince has the ability to shift into a big black cat - so what, it only means that Amory has a pet addionally to his lover. Later in the story there are Talents i.e. magical abilities and even sorcery - but there is no concept to it or showing what an effect it has for the society, seems it's only there to sooth the effects of the assassinations later on and of course for a certain other case.
I very early said goodbye to the idea that I'm reading a fantasy novel. It's a romance disguised as fantasy but for a romance as simple and angst-free as this it's much too long although it was easy to go with the flow of the story because it doesn't demand much attention if any at all.
My main concern where I nearly reget my decision to read along until the end was the case where sorcery and talent became handy:
September 11, 2017
I really enjoyed this one. I wasn't sure because it was fantasy and a new author to me. But it sounded good to me and I'm glad I took a chance. I loved Phillip and Amory from the beginning. They were so sweet together. I love when a new author and new book works out for me...
March 4, 2018
A low-angst romance set in a fantasy/historical world. I loved how the main couple, Phillip and Amory, were so sure of their love despite the obstacles thrown in their way. The mystery was fairly easy to solve but still entertaining nonetheless.
October 18, 2015
Good start for this author. I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
April 26, 2018
An enjoyable book. I liked the main characters. I liked that the took things slow. There is much going on, and it felt a little drawn out.
But I loved the detailed kissing :)
But I loved the detailed kissing :)
August 21, 2016
Reviewed on The Blogger Girls.
Phillip inherited the throne at a young age and lived his life around the country. When Amory’s father offers Amory up as a pardon for a late commission both of them are mortified but that doesn’t stop Phillip from actually considering it. After all, if Amory won’t be his lover, he could always use a friend. When Amory says yes, their whole lives change for better and worse and as time goes on, their feelings for each other get deeper and deeper. Unfortunately, some people don’t like the fact Amory is Phillip’s lover and are determined to get rid of him at all costs. With the threat against his lover’s life, Phillip has to make some hard and selfish decisions.
I’m conflicted with this story. I enjoyed the premise and ultimately the characters but I had issues. As for the characters, I really liked that Amory was so sweet and kind but also had a backbone. If he didn’t really want to do something, he wouldn’t which I found endearing when it came to sticking up to his father. I also really liked Phillip and the fact he had no issues about being a little selfish when it came to Amory. To be honest, I didn’t expect him to be a cat so that was a pleasant surprise and I really liked that Amory was so understanding and accepting of Phillip’s shifting. What I really adored, though, was where the story eventually went. I had a few suspicions but didn’t really expect a publisher like Dreamspinner to publish a certain thing so I was definitely pleasantly surprised by it!
As I mentioned, I had a lot of issues with this one. My two biggest issues, though, was how much sex there was… way too much for my liking and also how much telling there was. This book had so much potential but the fact the author decided to ‘tell’ the story instead of ‘show’ it really hurt it, IMO. I wanted to see the characters get to know each other not be told they talked all night and learned so much about each other. Add to that, there were some secondary characters I found annoying (Phillip’s sister… could she be any more immature and selfish?) and felt like the ending was way too easy and predictable.
In the end, though, I liked the premise of the story and loved where this author took it. There’s not many mpreg stories out there (which reminds me… was this the first one DSP published??) and I liked that Phillip finally decided to be a little bit selfish instead of succumbing to everyone’s wishes of marrying a female. I’ll most likely read more from this author, in this series, because I’m interested to see a few of the other male characters get their stories:)
Phillip inherited the throne at a young age and lived his life around the country. When Amory’s father offers Amory up as a pardon for a late commission both of them are mortified but that doesn’t stop Phillip from actually considering it. After all, if Amory won’t be his lover, he could always use a friend. When Amory says yes, their whole lives change for better and worse and as time goes on, their feelings for each other get deeper and deeper. Unfortunately, some people don’t like the fact Amory is Phillip’s lover and are determined to get rid of him at all costs. With the threat against his lover’s life, Phillip has to make some hard and selfish decisions.
I’m conflicted with this story. I enjoyed the premise and ultimately the characters but I had issues. As for the characters, I really liked that Amory was so sweet and kind but also had a backbone. If he didn’t really want to do something, he wouldn’t which I found endearing when it came to sticking up to his father. I also really liked Phillip and the fact he had no issues about being a little selfish when it came to Amory. To be honest, I didn’t expect him to be a cat so that was a pleasant surprise and I really liked that Amory was so understanding and accepting of Phillip’s shifting. What I really adored, though, was where the story eventually went. I had a few suspicions but didn’t really expect a publisher like Dreamspinner to publish a certain thing so I was definitely pleasantly surprised by it!
As I mentioned, I had a lot of issues with this one. My two biggest issues, though, was how much sex there was… way too much for my liking and also how much telling there was. This book had so much potential but the fact the author decided to ‘tell’ the story instead of ‘show’ it really hurt it, IMO. I wanted to see the characters get to know each other not be told they talked all night and learned so much about each other. Add to that, there were some secondary characters I found annoying (Phillip’s sister… could she be any more immature and selfish?) and felt like the ending was way too easy and predictable.
In the end, though, I liked the premise of the story and loved where this author took it. There’s not many mpreg stories out there (which reminds me… was this the first one DSP published??) and I liked that Phillip finally decided to be a little bit selfish instead of succumbing to everyone’s wishes of marrying a female. I’ll most likely read more from this author, in this series, because I’m interested to see a few of the other male characters get their stories:)
March 17, 2020
There are various reasons for taking and ways to obtain a royal consort, should one be desired. In Tournai, a small country in a richly developed fantasy world, it used to be more common than it is in the period of this story but it is by no means unheard of. What horrifies Prince Philip when the opportunity is offered to him is the way it happens. Amory, the young man who is to become a “bribe” so his merchant father has more time to finish a chandelier the prince commissioned, is shocked when he figures out why his father took him to the palace. Philip is extremely interested in Amory, but he will not force him to stay, so he pulls him out of the business meeting and discusses the situation with him. Their first interaction sets the tone for the remainder of the novel – their entire relationship is built on mutual respect, an exchange of opinions, and support for each other no matter what fate throws at them. The result is a sweet, romantic story that is not without conflict and suspense, but, after the initial get-to-know-you period, the issues are all external.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
October 22, 2015
I was in the mood for a fantasy romance so I decided to try a new to me author while I was at it. Loved the writing style, the world, and the characters. The plot is both the romance and palace intrigue stuff which was great. The two main characters & their relationship was sweet and slow burn stuff which was perfect and believable. The book got slow at times, but was overall an engaging read. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 14, 2019
3.5 stars rounded up
I've had this on my Kindle for quite some time, but cracked it open the other day and found myself enjoying this very sweet, romantic story. It was the just the low-angst, low-drama book I needed to read right now.
Recommend if you need something a little sappy. Wait for a sale, though, because the publisher has set the ebook prices quite high.
I've had this on my Kindle for quite some time, but cracked it open the other day and found myself enjoying this very sweet, romantic story. It was the just the low-angst, low-drama book I needed to read right now.
Recommend if you need something a little sappy. Wait for a sale, though, because the publisher has set the ebook prices quite high.
December 3, 2015
So, let me first by saying that this book is closer to a 3.5 than a 3, but I did not like it enough to give it a 4 star rating. While I did enjoy this book enough to read and finish, there were certain issues I had, actually several issues I had that warranted the 3 star rating.
1. The instalove. And not just "maybe I love him, maybe I don't" instalove. It was like Phillip met Amory and then decided he needed to be with him. Willing to anger his family, and possibly dishonor his name for a complete stranger? I'm sorry. But no. Then Amory decides within the first day after deciding to be a complete strangers lover that he has to make their relationship work in order to be there for Prince so he won't be lonely anymore. Really? REALLY? Never mind the fact that Amory actually states that he's in love with Phillip 3 weeks later. By the time Philip asked Amory to marry him I'd already accepted these two were delusional.
2. The pacing. So I've heard a few people say it felt like this book was really long. And that's because of the poor pacing in this book. We get 250 pages of meaningless fluff and 50 of actual plot. Usually when an author sets a sense of time, they're consistent. Not the case here. We went from a day to day play by play, to skip a few weeks, to skip a few months, to back to day to day. Maddening. I wouldn't mind it so much if long periods of time were covered. But this books covers a year's time span. LITERALLY. They met, had sex, mosied around for like 3 months and then Philip was asking Amory to marry him. Days later they were talking about children. Ok. Sure.
3. The m-preg. I actually enjoy reading m-preg. It's something that isn't done very often or very well, so when I see a book with a decent star rating, I take a chance and purchase. While the reason behind the m-preg was plausible in the magical world, the pacing during the actual pregnancy was so warped I barely had time to blink and the baby was born. I guess what I'm saying is, there wasn't much of an actual pregnancy. I thought, okay, well maybe she'll let us see some family life once the baby is here. Nope. Fade to black as they're holding the baby together for the first time. Sweet, but not fulfilling as far as an m-preg is concerned. At least not for me.
There are many good things about the novel as well. The characters were interesting. The side affair between Tristan and Philip's cousin intrigued me as well. I liked the easy relationship the characters had. No over the top agnst. I usually like novels with sexually explicit scenes, but honestly, the writing was so fluffy I was glad they were glossed over. Most of the adversity came from the outside rather than within. I usually read more dramatic romances, but this was light, cute and sweet. Read it in two days. I probably could have finished sooner had the pacing been better, but I still enjoyed it.
1. The instalove. And not just "maybe I love him, maybe I don't" instalove. It was like Phillip met Amory and then decided he needed to be with him. Willing to anger his family, and possibly dishonor his name for a complete stranger? I'm sorry. But no. Then Amory decides within the first day after deciding to be a complete strangers lover that he has to make their relationship work in order to be there for Prince so he won't be lonely anymore. Really? REALLY? Never mind the fact that Amory actually states that he's in love with Phillip 3 weeks later. By the time Philip asked Amory to marry him I'd already accepted these two were delusional.
2. The pacing. So I've heard a few people say it felt like this book was really long. And that's because of the poor pacing in this book. We get 250 pages of meaningless fluff and 50 of actual plot. Usually when an author sets a sense of time, they're consistent. Not the case here. We went from a day to day play by play, to skip a few weeks, to skip a few months, to back to day to day. Maddening. I wouldn't mind it so much if long periods of time were covered. But this books covers a year's time span. LITERALLY. They met, had sex, mosied around for like 3 months and then Philip was asking Amory to marry him. Days later they were talking about children. Ok. Sure.
3. The m-preg. I actually enjoy reading m-preg. It's something that isn't done very often or very well, so when I see a book with a decent star rating, I take a chance and purchase. While the reason behind the m-preg was plausible in the magical world, the pacing during the actual pregnancy was so warped I barely had time to blink and the baby was born. I guess what I'm saying is, there wasn't much of an actual pregnancy. I thought, okay, well maybe she'll let us see some family life once the baby is here. Nope. Fade to black as they're holding the baby together for the first time. Sweet, but not fulfilling as far as an m-preg is concerned. At least not for me.
There are many good things about the novel as well. The characters were interesting. The side affair between Tristan and Philip's cousin intrigued me as well. I liked the easy relationship the characters had. No over the top agnst. I usually like novels with sexually explicit scenes, but honestly, the writing was so fluffy I was glad they were glossed over. Most of the adversity came from the outside rather than within. I usually read more dramatic romances, but this was light, cute and sweet. Read it in two days. I probably could have finished sooner had the pacing been better, but I still enjoyed it.
January 12, 2016
Just a little warning before you read this book. This is a MPEG book and I know some are okay with that and some are not so I just wanted to put a little warning in this review. With shifters book this usually does not bug me at all and I have say the way the author wrote this into the book was perfect.
Now I will be honest and say it took me 3 or 4 times starting this book before it actually grabbed me and I think it was because while I do like sweet books sometimes they can be to sweet and I lose interest for some reason. Well the first part was very sweet and unfortunately that happened so it took awhile for this book to grab me. But once it did I could not put it down!
This author made such a amazing world full of shifters and magic with healers and sorceries. The love these two MC's had together was just so sweet.
Phillip is a crowned prince who meets Armory when Armory's father visits the palace because he has done work for Phillip the crowned prince. Well the moment these two MC's meet there was a instant attraction and Phillip asks Armory to be his consort.
You get Action and Angst in this book plus so much sweet! Now I would not say this was a very steamy book because those parts were written very short but I really liked the way everything worked together in this book. You also meet a lot of different characters which most I really liked but of course there are the bad ones too who try to hurt Armory. I will say I was not a fan of Philip's sister at all I really do not like the whole spoiled throwing tantrums thing she did especially with how old she was. Those parts did annoy me but other than that I Really liked this book and the world this author created! I would recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
Now I will be honest and say it took me 3 or 4 times starting this book before it actually grabbed me and I think it was because while I do like sweet books sometimes they can be to sweet and I lose interest for some reason. Well the first part was very sweet and unfortunately that happened so it took awhile for this book to grab me. But once it did I could not put it down!
This author made such a amazing world full of shifters and magic with healers and sorceries. The love these two MC's had together was just so sweet.
Phillip is a crowned prince who meets Armory when Armory's father visits the palace because he has done work for Phillip the crowned prince. Well the moment these two MC's meet there was a instant attraction and Phillip asks Armory to be his consort.
You get Action and Angst in this book plus so much sweet! Now I would not say this was a very steamy book because those parts were written very short but I really liked the way everything worked together in this book. You also meet a lot of different characters which most I really liked but of course there are the bad ones too who try to hurt Armory. I will say I was not a fan of Philip's sister at all I really do not like the whole spoiled throwing tantrums thing she did especially with how old she was. Those parts did annoy me but other than that I Really liked this book and the world this author created! I would recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
July 6, 2016
Slow start and sadly quite slow all over. Or perhaps it felt that way because it's very character-driven, heavily focused on the romance, very sweet and all, but without much of a "story" if you know what I mean.
I adore historical-fantasy romances and despite loving the characters I was bored for the most part of the book. Except for the magic and Philip's "cat-shifting" ability, there was nothing much else that added to the fun of the story. It was all very low-key and adventure-less :(
The characters were super lovable, and the writing beautiful. But I'm afraid there really wasn't much a story to lose yourself in.
Their romance was lovely, but since they got together right from the start of the book there weren't any major challenges or YES-FINALLY moments that would've made it more exciting.
AND -> I'm still not a fan of mpreg situations, magic or no, therefore I didn't truly enjoy how the book turned out in the end.
Bit bummed because I'd been looking forward to start this series for a long time now, and I don't feel enthusiastic about the second installment after this :(
I adore historical-fantasy romances and despite loving the characters I was bored for the most part of the book. Except for the magic and Philip's "cat-shifting" ability, there was nothing much else that added to the fun of the story. It was all very low-key and adventure-less :(
The characters were super lovable, and the writing beautiful. But I'm afraid there really wasn't much a story to lose yourself in.
Their romance was lovely, but since they got together right from the start of the book there weren't any major challenges or YES-FINALLY moments that would've made it more exciting.
AND -> I'm still not a fan of mpreg situations, magic or no, therefore I didn't truly enjoy how the book turned out in the end.
Bit bummed because I'd been looking forward to start this series for a long time now, and I don't feel enthusiastic about the second installment after this :(
November 25, 2015
One word - meh...
April 15, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much! The romance was perfect and built on a deep love while danger lurked all around threatening to destroy that love. Prince Philip took the throne at an early age when both of his parents died at a relatively young age. The work is sometimes almost overwhelming, but Philip is drawn to his duty. He's always been attracted to men, but due to his position, he only allowed himself one brief clandestine affair in the past. Now, he's rarely alone, but sometimes lonely. It doesn't help that his extended family is always pressuring him to marry a woman and produce an heir.
Amory is the son of a successful glass merchant. His father greatly prefers Amory's sometimes cruel older brother who will succeed his father in the family business. Amory loves his art, but doesn't have a clear direction for his future. When his father is called to the palace to answer for a delay in delivering an important glass chandelier, Amory is shocked that his father offers the prince a few days of delight with Amory. Philip and Amory talk about the offer, but only accept because they are both interested and for longer than a few days, even if it starts out rather platonically.
A beautiful love develops that is the stuff of romance novels. Unfortunately, not everyone wants them to have their happiness with each other. This book has a low-angst romance interspersed with deadly threats. The world in which it is set has magic, animal shifting, and a few other surprises I won't spoil. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Amory is the son of a successful glass merchant. His father greatly prefers Amory's sometimes cruel older brother who will succeed his father in the family business. Amory loves his art, but doesn't have a clear direction for his future. When his father is called to the palace to answer for a delay in delivering an important glass chandelier, Amory is shocked that his father offers the prince a few days of delight with Amory. Philip and Amory talk about the offer, but only accept because they are both interested and for longer than a few days, even if it starts out rather platonically.
A beautiful love develops that is the stuff of romance novels. Unfortunately, not everyone wants them to have their happiness with each other. This book has a low-angst romance interspersed with deadly threats. The world in which it is set has magic, animal shifting, and a few other surprises I won't spoil. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
March 17, 2020
There are various reasons for taking and ways to obtain a royal consort, should one be desired. In Tournai, a small country in a richly developed fantasy world, it used to be more common than it is in the period of this story but it is by no means unheard of. What horrifies Prince Philip when the opportunity is offered to him is the way it happens. Amory, the young man who is to become a “bribe” so his merchant father has more time to finish a chandelier the prince commissioned, is shocked when he figures out why his father took him to the palace. Philip is extremely interested in Amory, but he will not force him to stay, so he pulls him out of the business meeting and discusses the situation with him. Their first interaction sets the tone for the remainder of the novel – their entire relationship is built on mutual respect, an exchange of opinions, and support for each other no matter what fate throws at them. The result is a sweet, romantic story that is not without conflict and suspense, but, after the initial get-to-know-you period, the issues are all external.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Currently reading
March 26, 2017Not a fan of the plot in the 3rd book...but gonna give this series a try.
April 15, 2020
Thank you NetGalley for giving me a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
[MÁS ABAJO PUEDEN VER EL REVIEW EN ESPAÑOL]
Even though The Prince's Consort is not a perfect book, and there are certain parts that I think need improvement, I really enjoyed it because it has one of the cutests love stories I've read lately and that's exactly what I needed in these trying times.
This book is a new adult/adult romance and it has a little bit of fantasy. The main character is Amory, who is gay and comes from a conservative family. When his father discovers that he likes men, he tries offers the prince of the fictional country, Philip (who is also gay), a night with Amory in exchange for giving him more time to deliver a commission he owes him.
Philip inmediately likes Amory and offers him a deal to help him: he can stay in the palace with him as his lover and they can try to actually have a relationship, or at least be friends, and Amory can get rid of his horrible father in the process. Amory accepts. So yeah, this is very insta-love. If that's something that doesn't bothers you, you'll be fine. Personally, I didn't mind it in this case.
The first reason why I wanted to read this book is because of the diversity. I'm part of the LGBTQ+ community myself, so I love to read books with a lot of sexual representation, and I wasn't disappointed because the main couple are not the only LGBTQ+ characters in this book.
Second, I loved the fact that this story was so happy and drama-free, with a main couple that is absolutely cute and loveable. Philip is really Prince Charming and his relationship with Amory is everything you could wish for. That also means that is not realistic at all, but I couldn't care less about it, realistic is not what I wanted! I wanted a nice love story and that's what this is.
If you're having trouble coping with quarantine and you want a fast, nice romance read, I think this is a great option for you.
What I didn't like very much? I lowered the rating to 4 stars because, as much as I liked the relationship between Amory and Philip, I think the story needs more world-building. The main characters have some magical powers, but the magic system is never explained, so it left me with a lot of doubts and I wish we could know more about it.
Lastly, I'd like to apologize for any grammar or orthographic mistakes this review could have, english is not my first language and I learned it on my own.
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REVIEW IN SPANISH/EN ESPAÑOL
Gracias a NetGalley por darme una copia digital de The Prince's Consort a cambio de un review honesto.
Pese a que The Prince's Consort no es perfecto, y tiene algunas cosas que necesitan mejorarse, lo disfruté mucho porque muestra una de las historias de amor más tiernas que he leído últimamente, y eso es exactamente lo que necesitaba en estos tiempos difíciles.
Este libro es un romance adulto y contiene un poco de fantasía. El personaje principal es Amory, un joven gay que viene de una familia conservadora. Cuando su padre descubre que le gustan los hombres, intenta ofrecerle al príncipe del país ficticio, Philip (quien también es gay), una noche con Amory a cambio de que me dé más tiempo para entregarle un trabajo que le debe.
A Philip le gusta Amory de inmediato y le ofrece un trato: puede quedarse en el palacio con él como su amante y ellos pueden tratar de tener una relación de verdad, o al menos ser amigos, y a la vez, Amory puede aprovechar para alejarse de su padre y no volverlo a ver. Amory acepta. Sí, tiene ese cliché del "amor instantáneo" o insta-love. Si eso no te molesta, no tendrás problemas. A mí no me importó, en este caso.
La razón primordial por la que quería leer este libro es por su diversidad. Yo misma soy parte de la comunidad LGBTQ+, así que amo leer libros que tienen mucha representación sexual, y no me decepcionó porque tiene más personajes LGBT además de la pareja principal.
Segundo, amé el que esta historia fuese tan feliz y sin drama, con una pareja protagonista que es muy tierna y querible. Philip es 100% un príncipe azul y su relación con Amory es todo lo que uno podría desear. Eso también significa que no es para nada realista, pero no me importa porque no quería algo realista! Quería leer un romance bonito y perfecto, y eso es este libro.
Si están teniendo dificultades lidiando con la cuarentena y quieren una lectura rápida y tierna, esta es una buena opción.
¿Cuál fue la parte que no me gustó? Bajé la calificación a 4 estrellas porque, pese a que me gustó la relación entre Amory y Philip, creo que la historia necesita más desarrollo del mundo. Los personajes principales tienen algunos poderes mágicos, pero el sistema de magia nunca es explicado, entonces me dejó con muchas dudas y desearía que tuviésemos más información al respecto.
[MÁS ABAJO PUEDEN VER EL REVIEW EN ESPAÑOL]
Even though The Prince's Consort is not a perfect book, and there are certain parts that I think need improvement, I really enjoyed it because it has one of the cutests love stories I've read lately and that's exactly what I needed in these trying times.
This book is a new adult/adult romance and it has a little bit of fantasy. The main character is Amory, who is gay and comes from a conservative family. When his father discovers that he likes men, he tries offers the prince of the fictional country, Philip (who is also gay), a night with Amory in exchange for giving him more time to deliver a commission he owes him.
Philip inmediately likes Amory and offers him a deal to help him: he can stay in the palace with him as his lover and they can try to actually have a relationship, or at least be friends, and Amory can get rid of his horrible father in the process. Amory accepts. So yeah, this is very insta-love. If that's something that doesn't bothers you, you'll be fine. Personally, I didn't mind it in this case.
The first reason why I wanted to read this book is because of the diversity. I'm part of the LGBTQ+ community myself, so I love to read books with a lot of sexual representation, and I wasn't disappointed because the main couple are not the only LGBTQ+ characters in this book.
Second, I loved the fact that this story was so happy and drama-free, with a main couple that is absolutely cute and loveable. Philip is really Prince Charming and his relationship with Amory is everything you could wish for. That also means that is not realistic at all, but I couldn't care less about it, realistic is not what I wanted! I wanted a nice love story and that's what this is.
If you're having trouble coping with quarantine and you want a fast, nice romance read, I think this is a great option for you.
What I didn't like very much? I lowered the rating to 4 stars because, as much as I liked the relationship between Amory and Philip, I think the story needs more world-building. The main characters have some magical powers, but the magic system is never explained, so it left me with a lot of doubts and I wish we could know more about it.
Lastly, I'd like to apologize for any grammar or orthographic mistakes this review could have, english is not my first language and I learned it on my own.
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REVIEW IN SPANISH/EN ESPAÑOL
Gracias a NetGalley por darme una copia digital de The Prince's Consort a cambio de un review honesto.
Pese a que The Prince's Consort no es perfecto, y tiene algunas cosas que necesitan mejorarse, lo disfruté mucho porque muestra una de las historias de amor más tiernas que he leído últimamente, y eso es exactamente lo que necesitaba en estos tiempos difíciles.
Este libro es un romance adulto y contiene un poco de fantasía. El personaje principal es Amory, un joven gay que viene de una familia conservadora. Cuando su padre descubre que le gustan los hombres, intenta ofrecerle al príncipe del país ficticio, Philip (quien también es gay), una noche con Amory a cambio de que me dé más tiempo para entregarle un trabajo que le debe.
A Philip le gusta Amory de inmediato y le ofrece un trato: puede quedarse en el palacio con él como su amante y ellos pueden tratar de tener una relación de verdad, o al menos ser amigos, y a la vez, Amory puede aprovechar para alejarse de su padre y no volverlo a ver. Amory acepta. Sí, tiene ese cliché del "amor instantáneo" o insta-love. Si eso no te molesta, no tendrás problemas. A mí no me importó, en este caso.
La razón primordial por la que quería leer este libro es por su diversidad. Yo misma soy parte de la comunidad LGBTQ+, así que amo leer libros que tienen mucha representación sexual, y no me decepcionó porque tiene más personajes LGBT además de la pareja principal.
Segundo, amé el que esta historia fuese tan feliz y sin drama, con una pareja protagonista que es muy tierna y querible. Philip es 100% un príncipe azul y su relación con Amory es todo lo que uno podría desear. Eso también significa que no es para nada realista, pero no me importa porque no quería algo realista! Quería leer un romance bonito y perfecto, y eso es este libro.
Si están teniendo dificultades lidiando con la cuarentena y quieren una lectura rápida y tierna, esta es una buena opción.
¿Cuál fue la parte que no me gustó? Bajé la calificación a 4 estrellas porque, pese a que me gustó la relación entre Amory y Philip, creo que la historia necesita más desarrollo del mundo. Los personajes principales tienen algunos poderes mágicos, pero el sistema de magia nunca es explicado, entonces me dejó con muchas dudas y desearía que tuviésemos más información al respecto.
March 30, 2019
Probably not going to finish reading this. At the 40% complete mark, and a real conflict has yet to emerge, only hints that some people don't approve of what is otherwise a drama-free relationship. The romance moves extremely quickly, just barely avoiding being love at first sight by trying to take the physical elements of the relationship slow. But there's an emotional bond between the two main characters which does not feel earned (because it happens so immediately upon their first meeting, and because their relationship often grows during long conversations which are glossed over and not described).
I wanted to like this because much of the writing is solid, and the parts of the romance that are good are extremely sweet, but it doesn't have enough of a conflict or a hook to hold my attention.
I wanted to like this because much of the writing is solid, and the parts of the romance that are good are extremely sweet, but it doesn't have enough of a conflict or a hook to hold my attention.
October 2, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Overall, I enjoyed The Prince’s Consort. Amory and Philip are extremely likeable—both caring, patient, and giving. Their courtship is so sweet and, at times, almost overly courteous that they made me smile because they reminded me of Tosh and Mac, the super polite British gophers from the WB cartoons. And while their relationship is insta-lovey, as feelings of love are expressed within a few weeks and marriage within a few months, it’s the kind that works for me as they spend almost 40% of the story spending most of every day getting to know one another and making out before having sex.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Overall, I enjoyed The Prince’s Consort. Amory and Philip are extremely likeable—both caring, patient, and giving. Their courtship is so sweet and, at times, almost overly courteous that they made me smile because they reminded me of Tosh and Mac, the super polite British gophers from the WB cartoons. And while their relationship is insta-lovey, as feelings of love are expressed within a few weeks and marriage within a few months, it’s the kind that works for me as they spend almost 40% of the story spending most of every day getting to know one another and making out before having sex.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
October 6, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5⭐️
Having taken up the mantle of Prince of Tournai a year ago after a fatal accident killed his parents, Prince Philip has slowly been losing himself under the weight of responsibility. Though groomed from birth for the position, he hadn’t expected to lead so soon and is beginning to feel smothered under the pressure of grief, politics, and his uncle’s “helpful” counsel on any and everything, particularly Philip’s need to make a politically useful marriage and produce an heir posthaste. Having to meet with the country’s foremost glassmaker, an aggravatingly pompous and ingratiating toady, doesn’t help; having aforementioned toady shamelessly offer up his son’sass virginity on a platter for a deadline extension pushes Philip from weariness to rage within seconds. Seeing Amory’s horror-stricken face causes him to swallow his impulse to send the man packing for good and follow up on his gut instincts about the gorgeous and seemingly sincere and sweet young man.
While almost completely overcome by horror and embarrassment at his father’s disgusting bartering of his body, Amory is still aware of his unexpected attraction to the handsome young prince. When Philip offers him the chance to stay at the palace as a friend and potential lover, Amory senses the possibility of something special with the kind, compassionate, and “endearingly hopeful” ruler; getting out of his father’s house and being given the chance to find his own path is a bonus. Between engaging conversation and pleasurable nights spend cuddling and kissing, the pair find themselves completely enamored of one another and the possibility of something more quickly becomes forever. Displeasure at the prince for taking a male lover and neglecting his duty to secure an advantageous wife becomes deadly rage and rejection when Philip weds Amory. Even the prospect of potential future heirs does not remove the target from Amory’s back, and with few allies and even fewer trusted compatriots, Philip and Amory’s HEA may come at too great a cost to last.
Overall, I enjoyed "The Prince’s Consort". Amory and Philip are extremely likeable—both caring, patient, and giving. Their courtship is so sweet and, at times, almost overly courteous that they made me smile because they reminded me of Tosh and Mac, the super polite British gophers from the WB cartoons. And while their relationship is insta-lovey, as feelings of love are expressed within a few weeks and marriage within a few months, it’s the kind that works for me as they spend almost 40% of the story spending most of every day getting to know one another and making out before having sex.
I was also intrigued by how Aquilante incorporated the shifter aspect into her world. There are no shifters in the typical paranormal sense; they are not a separate species or being. The ability to shift is simply a rare magical Talent—more akin to a specialized transfiguration spell. Tournai citizens (at least the upper classes/nobility) are tested for magicaTalent, which can be present to varying degrees. Thus, Shifting Talent is no different than Healing Talent. This may or may not work for some readers, as it exemplifies the “lite fantasy” world building inherent to the story. "Consort" picks many elements to build a sense of the fantastical (magic! shifters! sorcerers!) and weaves them into the environment of castles, carriages, and swords found in many fantasies to transport the reader there…but only just enough so that you invest into the fantasy romance and, later, the magical pregnancy. So, if the Cinderella/Pretty Woman insta-love vibes or the literally magic-induced mpreg don’t engage you, the minimal world building may leave you even more unfulfilled.
Additionally, the pacing may be hit or miss for some readers as the book is frothy, adorable goo with some hiccups when the disapproval (and in some cases) abandonment by family and peers casts a pall on Amory and Philip’s happiness. Then comes the first attack on Amory, which kicks off the cyclic “action” of the story, which is a series of ever-increasing close calls followed by weeks or months of inactivity/anxiety intermingled with landmarks of their relationship progression—from Amory’s discovery of a magical way to pregnancy, to the wedding, and then the decision to become parents. With 2/3 of the book absent of this major conflict, it makes the overall pacing a bit uneven. However, I appreciated Aquilante’s depiction of Amory’s struggle with being pregnant. Although the changes to a pregnant body are natural, they can be disquieting, and Amory’s feelings of body horror (which aren’t all tied to his gender) are explorable.As for the birth, again, some people will think it a superficial, eye-rolling cop-out and others will think, well, this is a magical fairytale; why shouldn’t fairy dust be applied to delivery as well?
The "The Prince’s Consort"is a good read that I am happy I unearthed from the depths of my TBR pile. It happened to hit my sweet spot just right of things I tend to find problematic or off-putting when done poorly—insta-love and lite fantasy. Additionally, as Amory and Philip are charming leads and most of the secondary characters (both ally and opposition) are well-drawn enough to add depth and movement to the story, with some inspiring curiosity about the rest of the series (like Elodie, Philip’s excitable and over-indulged sister who I want to see stop throwing tantrums and grow up in the future), I think those looking for a lovey, feel-good fairytale will like this one.
3.5⭐️
Having taken up the mantle of Prince of Tournai a year ago after a fatal accident killed his parents, Prince Philip has slowly been losing himself under the weight of responsibility. Though groomed from birth for the position, he hadn’t expected to lead so soon and is beginning to feel smothered under the pressure of grief, politics, and his uncle’s “helpful” counsel on any and everything, particularly Philip’s need to make a politically useful marriage and produce an heir posthaste. Having to meet with the country’s foremost glassmaker, an aggravatingly pompous and ingratiating toady, doesn’t help; having aforementioned toady shamelessly offer up his son’s
While almost completely overcome by horror and embarrassment at his father’s disgusting bartering of his body, Amory is still aware of his unexpected attraction to the handsome young prince. When Philip offers him the chance to stay at the palace as a friend and potential lover, Amory senses the possibility of something special with the kind, compassionate, and “endearingly hopeful” ruler; getting out of his father’s house and being given the chance to find his own path is a bonus. Between engaging conversation and pleasurable nights spend cuddling and kissing, the pair find themselves completely enamored of one another and the possibility of something more quickly becomes forever. Displeasure at the prince for taking a male lover and neglecting his duty to secure an advantageous wife becomes deadly rage and rejection when Philip weds Amory. Even the prospect of potential future heirs does not remove the target from Amory’s back, and with few allies and even fewer trusted compatriots, Philip and Amory’s HEA may come at too great a cost to last.
Overall, I enjoyed "The Prince’s Consort". Amory and Philip are extremely likeable—both caring, patient, and giving. Their courtship is so sweet and, at times, almost overly courteous that they made me smile because they reminded me of Tosh and Mac, the super polite British gophers from the WB cartoons. And while their relationship is insta-lovey, as feelings of love are expressed within a few weeks and marriage within a few months, it’s the kind that works for me as they spend almost 40% of the story spending most of every day getting to know one another and making out before having sex.
I was also intrigued by how Aquilante incorporated the shifter aspect into her world. There are no shifters in the typical paranormal sense; they are not a separate species or being. The ability to shift is simply a rare magical Talent—more akin to a specialized transfiguration spell. Tournai citizens (at least the upper classes/nobility) are tested for magicaTalent, which can be present to varying degrees. Thus, Shifting Talent is no different than Healing Talent. This may or may not work for some readers, as it exemplifies the “lite fantasy” world building inherent to the story. "Consort" picks many elements to build a sense of the fantastical (magic! shifters! sorcerers!) and weaves them into the environment of castles, carriages, and swords found in many fantasies to transport the reader there…but only just enough so that you invest into the fantasy romance and, later, the magical pregnancy. So, if the Cinderella/Pretty Woman insta-love vibes or the literally magic-induced mpreg don’t engage you, the minimal world building may leave you even more unfulfilled.
Additionally, the pacing may be hit or miss for some readers as the book is frothy, adorable goo with some hiccups when the disapproval (and in some cases) abandonment by family and peers casts a pall on Amory and Philip’s happiness. Then comes the first attack on Amory, which kicks off the cyclic “action” of the story, which is a series of ever-increasing close calls followed by weeks or months of inactivity/anxiety intermingled with landmarks of their relationship progression—from Amory’s discovery of a magical way to pregnancy, to the wedding, and then the decision to become parents. With 2/3 of the book absent of this major conflict, it makes the overall pacing a bit uneven. However, I appreciated Aquilante’s depiction of Amory’s struggle with being pregnant. Although the changes to a pregnant body are natural, they can be disquieting, and Amory’s feelings of body horror (which aren’t all tied to his gender) are explorable.As for the birth, again, some people will think it a superficial, eye-rolling cop-out and others will think, well, this is a magical fairytale; why shouldn’t fairy dust be applied to delivery as well?
The "The Prince’s Consort"is a good read that I am happy I unearthed from the depths of my TBR pile. It happened to hit my sweet spot just right of things I tend to find problematic or off-putting when done poorly—insta-love and lite fantasy. Additionally, as Amory and Philip are charming leads and most of the secondary characters (both ally and opposition) are well-drawn enough to add depth and movement to the story, with some inspiring curiosity about the rest of the series (like Elodie, Philip’s excitable and over-indulged sister who I want to see stop throwing tantrums and grow up in the future), I think those looking for a lovey, feel-good fairytale will like this one.
November 11, 2015
A beautiful love story in an imaginative kingdom! This is the most romantic romance (if that makes sense!) I've read in quite some time--candles, castles, gorgeous rides through the countryside--all the good stuff! Phillip and Amory fight to overcome the social obstacles presented by those around them while their love deepens. This couple is absolutely dedicated to one other and have the kind of relationship most of us can only dream of. :)
August 15, 2016
meh meh meh. fictional world in which two men can get married but a male heir is still needed because woman can't inherited titles and land (what about the princess though)?
I had a whole rant written but that only made me sad. so yeah lots of points lost for these kinds of plotholes and douchefuckery (why is he still a prince? he rules the country. ..)
I had a whole rant written but that only made me sad. so yeah lots of points lost for these kinds of plotholes and douchefuckery (why is he still a prince? he rules the country. ..)
January 18, 2017
I'm looking forward to the next book. I have to admit, I didn't see the bad guy coming...I was in the right ballpark, but the wrong seat!
Happy reading!
Happy reading!
November 23, 2015
I really have to start looking in the comments for mpreg tags before I start a book. There I go, reading along, perfectly happy and then wham! so disappointing.
March 22, 2020
4.5 Stars
Amory is the second son of a prominent glassmaker, and a consummate failure in his father's eyes. He prefers men, and is caught having a liaison with his oldest friend, Tristan, by his older and abusive brother at the opening of the story. Amory is sure he'll be cast out of his family and is bewildered why he is not. It turns out, that his conniving father has deeper plans, offering Amory's virginity to the crown prince of Tournai, Philip.
Philip detests the glassmaker, and is frustrated that his commissioned piece is late, but he's intrigued by the offer of Amory--not for his virginity but for his wholesomeness. Philip is a lonely man--young to his rule, he's given everything he has for his subjects, and he desires a partner. A prince can have a lover in the palace, even a male one, and innocent Amory seems like he could become a friend and a lover. Amory's own feelings are of shame, at first. He's ashamed to be bartered like a discount, but he sees a beautiful, lonely prince offering far more than a single night and he jumps at the chance to build a friendship and a relationship. HE immediately moves into the palace as the prince's lover, and they begin to get to know one another--keeping it barely phsyical while they develop a true rapport.
Philip find the confidante he needs, enough so that within weeks he's able to share his deepest-held secret: he's able to shift into a big black jaguar as are many of his immediate family. It's a latent Talent of the royal family, and Amory is enchanted by the magic of it. Amory has a healing Talent that Philip helps him develop with the royal healers. Months go by, and Amory's familiar at court, having fully bonded with Philip, and sad because of the pressure Philip seems to be constantly under to marry and produce an heir. Philip finally agrees to marry--Amory. It seems a ludicrous choice, but it's the only one to make Philip and Amory is convinced by Philip's dedicated wooing to accept the proposal. Amory has some biological secrets that may pan out in the heir-making department, but only if he makes it to the wedding. It seems there's a plot to remove the prince's beloved lover before he can become the official husband and consort.
I really liked all the relationship building that happens here. We see Amory and Philip slowly develop their initial attraction by constant steps toward intimacy. Philip has the right to take what he first desires, but he's methodical and just in his personal life, as well as in his professional station. He's a doting elder brother, and his compassion is something that really wins over Amory--who cannot believe his good fortune. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and their quirky/scheming family members. There was good misdirection regarding the source of danger for Amory, and I was glad to say it took me some time to figure out the hidden villain. The shifter and healer Talents gave and interesting twist into the fantasy realm, and allowed for magic to be a part of the everyday life of this story, as well as being available at the climax. I really liked how it all turned out, and look forward to reading on in this series.
Amory is the second son of a prominent glassmaker, and a consummate failure in his father's eyes. He prefers men, and is caught having a liaison with his oldest friend, Tristan, by his older and abusive brother at the opening of the story. Amory is sure he'll be cast out of his family and is bewildered why he is not. It turns out, that his conniving father has deeper plans, offering Amory's virginity to the crown prince of Tournai, Philip.
Philip detests the glassmaker, and is frustrated that his commissioned piece is late, but he's intrigued by the offer of Amory--not for his virginity but for his wholesomeness. Philip is a lonely man--young to his rule, he's given everything he has for his subjects, and he desires a partner. A prince can have a lover in the palace, even a male one, and innocent Amory seems like he could become a friend and a lover. Amory's own feelings are of shame, at first. He's ashamed to be bartered like a discount, but he sees a beautiful, lonely prince offering far more than a single night and he jumps at the chance to build a friendship and a relationship. HE immediately moves into the palace as the prince's lover, and they begin to get to know one another--keeping it barely phsyical while they develop a true rapport.
Philip find the confidante he needs, enough so that within weeks he's able to share his deepest-held secret: he's able to shift into a big black jaguar as are many of his immediate family. It's a latent Talent of the royal family, and Amory is enchanted by the magic of it. Amory has a healing Talent that Philip helps him develop with the royal healers. Months go by, and Amory's familiar at court, having fully bonded with Philip, and sad because of the pressure Philip seems to be constantly under to marry and produce an heir. Philip finally agrees to marry--Amory. It seems a ludicrous choice, but it's the only one to make Philip and Amory is convinced by Philip's dedicated wooing to accept the proposal. Amory has some biological secrets that may pan out in the heir-making department, but only if he makes it to the wedding. It seems there's a plot to remove the prince's beloved lover before he can become the official husband and consort.
I really liked all the relationship building that happens here. We see Amory and Philip slowly develop their initial attraction by constant steps toward intimacy. Philip has the right to take what he first desires, but he's methodical and just in his personal life, as well as in his professional station. He's a doting elder brother, and his compassion is something that really wins over Amory--who cannot believe his good fortune. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and their quirky/scheming family members. There was good misdirection regarding the source of danger for Amory, and I was glad to say it took me some time to figure out the hidden villain. The shifter and healer Talents gave and interesting twist into the fantasy realm, and allowed for magic to be a part of the everyday life of this story, as well as being available at the climax. I really liked how it all turned out, and look forward to reading on in this series.
June 13, 2020
Review excerpted from my blog post over at Pan/Cis LGBT2SQ+ Romance Reviews (https://pancis.wordpress.com/2020/06/...)
Overall Rating: 3.0 stars
Library recommendation: Recommended for public library LGBT2SQ+ romance collections.
Warning: Hereafter, you chance spoilers. I will try never to reveal major plot points, but to review any book, you must reveal some parts of the story.
_________________________
Number of titles I have read by this author: 1
Love story speed: Intense insta-attraction, followed by whirlwind instalove
Relationship dynamics: The Glassmaker’s Son (H1) / The Shifter Prince (H2)
Sexual content: A fair amount, both “on-screen” and “off-screen”. Fair warning that the book begins with sexual content right off the hop (not between H1 and H2)
Gender Identity: Intersex with male presentation (H1) / Cis (H2)
Sexual Identity: Gay (H1) / Gay (H2)
Triggers: Parental estrangement; homophobia; intolerance
Acceptance Rating: 2.5 stars
Acceptance Rating Explanation: Homosexuality is not illegal. However, there is a lot of parental/family disgust and intolerance, as well as seeking approval on the part of the main characters.
Grammar/Editing: There were a few typos and word choice issues in my ARC.
Review: I will admit to having to set this review aside for a while to mull over this review and decide on my final overall rating. I found the pacing of this book to be very uneven – it begins fairly slow with minute detail of individual days, but then large chunks of time are skipped within the story. The story is set in a fantasy realm, and the world building is good enough to follow the story, but I felt that the magical construct of the world was not explained well enough to fully understand how all aspects of the story were possible.
The main characters of this story are Amory and Philip. There is no tension between them in their relationship – everything is wonderful from beginning to end. Really, all of the conflict that exists in the novel is externally driven. In fact, it felt as if many of the supporting characters simply existed to express concern over homosexual relationships and their inability to produce children. It seemed to me that the tone of the story is very New Adult, and the relationship is intense in what seems like a very immature way, especially with the emphasis on basically always being plastered to one another’s sides, which will not be something all readers will enjoy.
Overall, while the story was ok, and the sequel sounds interesting enough, I’m rating this a 3.0 because I’m just not sure that I want to read more of this particular writing style.
Full disclosure: I received a free advance review copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Overall Rating: 3.0 stars
Library recommendation: Recommended for public library LGBT2SQ+ romance collections.
Warning: Hereafter, you chance spoilers. I will try never to reveal major plot points, but to review any book, you must reveal some parts of the story.
_________________________
Number of titles I have read by this author: 1
Love story speed: Intense insta-attraction, followed by whirlwind instalove
Relationship dynamics: The Glassmaker’s Son (H1) / The Shifter Prince (H2)
Sexual content: A fair amount, both “on-screen” and “off-screen”. Fair warning that the book begins with sexual content right off the hop (not between H1 and H2)
Gender Identity: Intersex with male presentation (H1) / Cis (H2)
Sexual Identity: Gay (H1) / Gay (H2)
Triggers: Parental estrangement; homophobia; intolerance
Acceptance Rating: 2.5 stars
Acceptance Rating Explanation: Homosexuality is not illegal. However, there is a lot of parental/family disgust and intolerance, as well as seeking approval on the part of the main characters.
Grammar/Editing: There were a few typos and word choice issues in my ARC.
Review: I will admit to having to set this review aside for a while to mull over this review and decide on my final overall rating. I found the pacing of this book to be very uneven – it begins fairly slow with minute detail of individual days, but then large chunks of time are skipped within the story. The story is set in a fantasy realm, and the world building is good enough to follow the story, but I felt that the magical construct of the world was not explained well enough to fully understand how all aspects of the story were possible.
The main characters of this story are Amory and Philip. There is no tension between them in their relationship – everything is wonderful from beginning to end. Really, all of the conflict that exists in the novel is externally driven. In fact, it felt as if many of the supporting characters simply existed to express concern over homosexual relationships and their inability to produce children. It seemed to me that the tone of the story is very New Adult, and the relationship is intense in what seems like a very immature way, especially with the emphasis on basically always being plastered to one another’s sides, which will not be something all readers will enjoy.
Overall, while the story was ok, and the sequel sounds interesting enough, I’m rating this a 3.0 because I’m just not sure that I want to read more of this particular writing style.
Full disclosure: I received a free advance review copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2023
That was bad !!
What a mess ! The story was amateurish and badly written. My thoughts are all jumbled up so I’ll write things as they come ! Major spoilers ahead ! You have been warned !
First of all, it felt like the author just created events to make the story unfold the way she wanted to.
Like...
- How to get the MC’s to meet ? You get Amory, one of the MC, getting caught kissing his best friend in a garden. Then, his father brings him to a meeting with the prince. Amory’s father offers Amory to the prince in exchange to get more time making a chandelier the prince ordered. Even if Amory and the prince are outraged by the offer, the prince chooses to keep Amory because he is already falling in love with Amory !! WTH !!
- How to get an heir to the throne when you have two men married together ? You just make one of the MC have a womb, add a little magic and, Bingo ! A pregnant male !! A heir to the throne !!!
- How to insert some action because there is nothing happening ? You create a murder plot to get rid of the pregnant MC ! And because you have no imagination whatsoever, 3 out of 4 attempts happen while horse riding !
- I could go on and on for long a time but you get the gist !
There were a lot of inconsistencies too.
The king is dead, so why the son is still called a prince ? He is the new ruler, shouldn’t he be a king ?
Why does the prince shapeshift in a big cat ? It does not add anything to the story. He says himself that it is not giving him any advantage whatsoever. And beside, why a big cat and not a panther ? If you create a shapeshifter, go for something cooler than a big cat !
The magic side in the story did not bring a lot in the storyline. Like I said before, it was just convenient when it was needed. Amory, one of the MC, has a Talent of healing but it’s not strong. It is just strong enough to achieve a successful pregnancy. Once again, how convenient !
One of the most irritating character in this book is the prince’s sister, Elodie ! She acts like a 2 year old child. She is just so obnoxious !!!
At the end of the book, we finally find out who is behind the murder attempts ! It’s a guy that we never heard of. He is the brother of the former prince’s lover Vasco. The guy acted with the help of about every member of Vasco’s family. They thought the prince would marry their sister but the prince never even courted her. So another convenient thing just to add a little action in the story.
I will not read the next book !! Oh no !!
What a mess ! The story was amateurish and badly written. My thoughts are all jumbled up so I’ll write things as they come ! Major spoilers ahead ! You have been warned !
First of all, it felt like the author just created events to make the story unfold the way she wanted to.
Like...
- How to get the MC’s to meet ? You get Amory, one of the MC, getting caught kissing his best friend in a garden. Then, his father brings him to a meeting with the prince. Amory’s father offers Amory to the prince in exchange to get more time making a chandelier the prince ordered. Even if Amory and the prince are outraged by the offer, the prince chooses to keep Amory because he is already falling in love with Amory !! WTH !!
- How to get an heir to the throne when you have two men married together ? You just make one of the MC have a womb, add a little magic and, Bingo ! A pregnant male !! A heir to the throne !!!
- How to insert some action because there is nothing happening ? You create a murder plot to get rid of the pregnant MC ! And because you have no imagination whatsoever, 3 out of 4 attempts happen while horse riding !
- I could go on and on for long a time but you get the gist !
There were a lot of inconsistencies too.
The king is dead, so why the son is still called a prince ? He is the new ruler, shouldn’t he be a king ?
Why does the prince shapeshift in a big cat ? It does not add anything to the story. He says himself that it is not giving him any advantage whatsoever. And beside, why a big cat and not a panther ? If you create a shapeshifter, go for something cooler than a big cat !
The magic side in the story did not bring a lot in the storyline. Like I said before, it was just convenient when it was needed. Amory, one of the MC, has a Talent of healing but it’s not strong. It is just strong enough to achieve a successful pregnancy. Once again, how convenient !
One of the most irritating character in this book is the prince’s sister, Elodie ! She acts like a 2 year old child. She is just so obnoxious !!!
At the end of the book, we finally find out who is behind the murder attempts ! It’s a guy that we never heard of. He is the brother of the former prince’s lover Vasco. The guy acted with the help of about every member of Vasco’s family. They thought the prince would marry their sister but the prince never even courted her. So another convenient thing just to add a little action in the story.
I will not read the next book !! Oh no !!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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