The Contingency Plan

Plans Trilogy #1

by Addison Albright

A sheltered prince. A sudden death. An unexpected choice. How will Prince Marcelo react to discovering he’s The Contingency Plan?

For eighteen years, there has been peace between Sheburat and the kingdom of Zioneven. The untimely death of a princess throws the marriage arrangement—the final phase to complete the terms of the treaty—into disarray, and the contingency plan is put into motion. Now the Crown Prince of Zioneven gets to make his own choice from among the princess’s younger siblings.

As a rare royal son in the matriarchal sovereignty of Sheburat, Prince Marcelo grew up knowing he would never marry. Never. Royal sons did not marry. Period. Except, Prince Efren isn’t from Sheburat, and he has other plans.

Genres: M M Romance, Fantasy, Romance, M M Fantasy, Fiction, Royalty, Historical

28 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 14, 2018

About the author

Addison Albright is a writer living in the middle of the USA. Her stories are gay romance in contemporary, fantasy, and paranormal genres. She generally adds a subtle touch of humor, a smidgen of drama/angst, and a healthy dose of slice-of-life to her stories. Her education includes a BS in Education with a major in mathematics and a minor in chemistry. Addison loves spending time with her family, reading, popcorn, boating, french fries, “open window weather,” cats, math, and anything chocolate. She loves to read pretty much anything and everything, anytime and anywhere.

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ADDISON'S PUBLICATIONS

STAND-ALONE STORIES
- The Recruit (Novella)
- The Contingency Plan (Short Story/Novelette)
- Cultivating Love (Short Novel)
- King Kong vs. The Skinny Pirate (FREE Short Story)

SERIES - DREAM ON
- Closets Are for Clothes (Short Novel)

SERIES - VOWS
- ’Til Death Do Us Part (Novel)
- From This Day Forward (Novelette)
- Okay, Then (Short Story in the Vows Box Set)
- To Love and To Cherish (Novel)

BOX SETS
- Vows Series
- Snapshots (a collection of 11 short stories)

ANTHOLOGIES
- Captain Jack and the Snack Attack (a short story in the FREE Make the Yuletide Gay Anthology)

Reviews

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Hearts

This is exactly what I like in my historical fantasies and to be honest, I’m so sad that this was only a mere 8000ish words.

As per the blurb, Prince Marcelo of Sheburat is basically a rare male in a highly matriarchal society. Not much is expected of him, let alone marriage or anything of import. Marcelo has long since resigned himself to a quiet life of celibacy and being a minor figurehead at most in his female dominated family. Sexuality and desire has not even been a blip on his radar until that is, his sister’s untimely death throws 2 kingdoms into chaos, as the question of who will now fulfill the peace treaty between two very different countries arises.

Created 18 years ago, the treaty between Sheburat and Zioneven had a contingency plan should the original terms become void on either side for any reason, and Prince Efren of Zioneven and his advisors have always had an alternate choice should that happen. No one is more surprised than Marcelo that he’s chosen instead of one of his many eligible sisters.

Admittedly, I loved the premise of this, and it was quite nostalgic of many a M/F historical I’ve read that played on arranged marriages and the obligations that such a setup entails. I’m only disappointed that we didn’t get a more detailed and drawn out look at Efren courting Marcelo for the potential of some delicious (all that is virginal) awakening that is just begging to be explored. Darn!! My poor self also would’ve happily read about the growing relationship between two strangers “forced” to work together for the good of their people - a partnership that eventually evolves into respect and love as Marcelo discovers what his new life has to offer under such tutelage and care. Oh yes!

Don’t get me wrong. This was lovely, but it left me wanting which I suppose is the best compliment! I know I wouldn’t say no to more of these two regarding their future or just a new edition expanding on all the potential this little story contains. More please!

Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review

[☆ Todd · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story had a lot going for it, but at only around 30 pages was way too short to give me what I had hoped for from the blurb.

I did enjoy watching the attraction between Prince Marcelo of Sheburat and Crown Prince Efren of Zioneven, but we were never given an on-page instance of them sitting down and having even a single honest-to-God conversation with one another.

They met, felt an attraction, were married, then Marcelo's man-servant was 'injecting' lube up his butt and the princely bow-chicka-wow-wow ensued.

But the one thing that I felt was extremely callous was that they buried Marcelo's twin sister that morning, then were all "Well, that was mildly depressing, let's have a royal wedding the very same afternoon." :- O

Wow, right? Talk about cold and uncaring. Even the stoic British royal family would have undoubtedly shown less "stiff upper lip" than that.

So the story had lots of promise, but would have been much better in a longer format, one where convincing feelings could have been developed.

3 stars.

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My ARC copy of the story was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.

See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)

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[Teal · Rating 2 out of 5]

"...the details of the styling of their clothing was distinctive..."

I don't like seeing this kind of mistake in a book that people are being charged money for. This is simple subject-verb agreement, folks! And the very next sentence starts with a dangling modifier. JMS Books, you published this -- where the hell are your editors?

The story itself started out strong, but at 28 pages it never had the chance to be anything more than a wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am. I want to get to know the characters before I have any interest in seeing them in bed together. I don't usually comment on short stories, but at $2 for 28 pages of unfulfilling story that haven't been professionally copy-edited, I thought this was worth flagging for my fellow readers.

I've made a note to myself not to buy from JMS Books.

[⚣Michaelle⚣ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.4 Stars

Great world-building and I loved the Matrilineal/Matriarchal aspect of the story...but I wish it had been a little bit longer so that the affection didn't feel quite so Insta. The rushed wedding and consummation was fine given the plot specifics, but I wanted more relationship building between the MCs. I also would have liked to see how well Marcelo adapts to the more egalitarian society of Zioneven; his epiphanies and realizations (regarding his future, his purpose, his value) were interesting and I would have loved to see the practical aspect of trying to fit in.

[BWT · Rating 3 out of 5]

The blurb is pretty spot on, so I won't rehash. This is super short - with the meeting, marriage, and consummation happening really quickly.

I enjoyed it, speeding through it briskly, and at only 28 pages it has quite a bit of world-building, and an interesting take on a matriarchal society being the one that's stunted and less open-minded, but I really would have loved to see this as a full-length novel. I'm afraid the brevity of the story, especially the way everything progresses so quickly, diminished the romance, as Prince Marcelo and Prince Efren don't really have much interaction with one another despite being the main characters.

It's an enjoyable historical fantasy romance and I would love to see it fleshed out one day to a longer novella or full length novel.

Galley copy of The Contingency Plan provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.

This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.

[Cadiva · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short story twist on the arranged marriage trope manages to pack quite a lot in and with remarkable detail given its length.

It's ridiculously cute too as the unnecessary royal Prince of a matriarchal society ends up being the answer when his twin sister dies in a riding accident shortly before she was supposed to marry the Prince from the kingdom next door.

#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.

[Jodi Ciorciari-marinich · Rating 3 out of 5]

Prince Marcelo is the son of the Queen. Since he is a boy he knows that he will never marry and has come to terms with that. In the kingdom the females are in charge and the males are their consorts.


His mother has signed a treaty with the neighboring kingdom for peace. As part of the terms his twin sister is to marry the prince but right before the wedding there is a terrible accident where she dies and the prince must pick from the remaining younger sisters to marry instead. While they are all waiting for the prince to chose, Prince Efren and Marcelo look at each other and Marcelo doesn't know why. When the prince makes he decision to marry him, Marcelo doesn't know what to think. He has been sheltered his whole life and didn't know that men could marry men. Since Marcelo has never had any feelings toward women he knew he was different. Now that Prince Efren has chosen him to marry, Marcelo doesn't know what to think anymore.
I enjoyed the way this story was played out and the way Marcelo's world was blow apart only to be put back together. I have to say that I wished it was longer. To me it ended so abruptly and it left me wanting to know what would happen between the 2 princes once they got back to the other kingdom. I think we could have seen how Prince Marcelo blossomed into a true Prince with his new husband at his side. I also would have liked to have read Prince Efren's side of the story as well.

Addison started this story strong but I just wanted more.
*ARC provided by JMS Books, LLC in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club

[Kazza · Rating 3 out of 5]

The actual rating is around 3.5 stars. This type of alt-historical, fantasy story is my crack. I love it, and this was such a sweet little story, shame it wasn't longer.

Blog review

[Carra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a super quick read, and was intriguing while it lasted—I just REALLY wish it had lasted a lot longer. Even given the short length, I still became fully invested in the main characters of Marcelo and Efren and wanted to know so much more about them. I also really wish we could have gotten part of the story from Efren’s point of view. Having it told from Marcelo’s point of view does give the story an air of innocence since he himself is sweet and innocent, and is totally unprepared for what’s to come.

Where Marcelo comes across as endearing and wholesome, Efren is charming and worldly…and I thought that made them a wonderful match for each other. Efren is also very thoughtful and caring with Marcelo.

Given that the book is so short, I was surprised at the level of detail achieved…but that did make me crave more. I’m really hoping that there will be a follow-up story coming, because this just made me want more of Marcelo and Efren. Due to the fact that I was left wanting, I’m giving The Contingency Plan 4 stars. And even though the page count is small (about two dozen pages give or take), thanks to the final scene it is still for readers 18+ for sexual content.

[Stephanie GooglyEyes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Looks like I'm the first to rate this book,lol. no pressure then, ay? Luckily I liked this story! :p

I liked the idea of Sheburat being a mainly ruled country by woman. A Queen and her consort and all her daughter's. Prince's never married, more so out of not wanting to than anything, not that they couldn't.

The downfall to Sheburat was they were still a little "backwards" in their thinking... unlike Zioneven where things as same sex couples was more accepted, educating ALL classes, and leading, not ruling, their people.

So it was a bit of a surprise to Prince Marcelo when he is chosen to wed the crowned Prince of Zioneven, instead of one of his sisters. After his initial shock, Marcelo seems to take it all in stride and is more curious to what his future will hold with this new role. When he finds out that he will continue on in education until he decides where his interests lie, he becomes even more pro-Zioneven.

One thing I wish about this story is that it is longer. I'd love to know more about Prince Efren. I'd like to see more relationship building between the two. I really hope this was just to test the waters on the story, because it sounds like it would be a fantastic series. Don't get me wrong, what is written is wonderful. Addison did a great job of adding just enough info into such a short story. It's just so intriguing that I would love more. Heck, I even liked Marcello's servant, Erich!

[Ruthie Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is a very short read - but actually packs a lot of punch in those pages. It turns our conventions on their head, with a matriarchal society, where royal boys are not tutored past the basics and can expect a lonely celibate life. However this all changes due to a fatal hunting accident, and Marcelo finds himself not just married, but married to a prince.

I would have loved a couple of hundred pages on this story - mainly in his new home - but actually what we have is enough to give us a very clear indication that there is lots of hope for their future.

[Maureen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short story set in a mythical land of long ago, where Princes never married, it was the Princess's who carried on the lineage. Marcelo's sister is set to marry a Prince of another land but dies the day before the planned wedding, rumors abound as to which sibling will be the replacement. Cute but sadly short, a very enjoyable tale.

[Manfred · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this but this needs to be a full length. Everything happens too fast and there is too much going on for it to be even somewhat believable or morally acceptable.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a bad short story. I know with being a short story you can't often get a huge amount of...stuff lol. Not a lot of angst. Some because of a family death, but overall a happy story.
With Marcello's sister dying, he figured his next youngest sister would be marrying. But Prince Efren didn't want a sister. He wanted Marcelo. And after a brief ceremony for his sister's funeral and one for their marriage, they were wed. And going to a land where same sex marriage was accepted. To a place where the rulers knew they were to serve as well as lead. A whole new world for Marcelo.
A happily ever after short.
http://lovebytesreviews.com

[Penumbra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Contingency Plan is the first book in the ‘Plans’ series. It’s about Prince Marcelo of Sheburat, and Crown Prince Efren of Zioneven. The story is told in third person from Marcelo’s pov.

3.5 Stars



I should mention that I read Book Three before I read this book, and Book Two. I suggest that the series be read in order to get the most out of Marcelo and Efren’s relationship, as well as the events that happen in Book Two.

The cover I’m guessing was put together by the company that published this series. I’ve noticed they often make simple covers and the cover models don’t always resemble the characters. This model however, could be Efren, although in the story he has chest hair, and I thought his hair was slightly longer.

This is a very short story, less than thirty pages. Everything that happens takes place in about 24-48 hours. The plot is about Efren and Marcelo meeting, the wedding, the wedding night and preparations to leave for Zioneven. As I mentioned, I read the other books also and I think that Book One and Book Two would’ve been better as one longer book, with Book One listed as Part One, and then Book Two listed as Part Two. They would’ve worked well together that way. As it is, I feel this story is too short and the ending is sort of a cliff-hanger. It wouldn’t have felt that way if the first two books were one longer story.

There’s a lot of monologue from Marcelo’s pov as he does a lot of thinking and wondering about the marriage, sex, and what Efren is like. This story pretty much takes place in Marcelo’s head. If you’ve read my reviews, you already know that I don’t like a lot of monologue. I’m not a fan of it here either, but since the story is short and Marcelo is sweet, it’s not as bad.

Sheburat is a matriarchy. Marcelo is the only male child and males are not as valued and considered ‘extra’. He’s not allowed to be as educated as his sisters, who are more highly valued and will ascend the throne one day. He’s not even allowed any skills as a soldier. He’s not stupid, but he’s been extremely sheltered and kept in the dark about politics and pretty much everything. He’s accepted the fact he’ll never marry and that he’ll live his life without any purpose. That is until his sister dies. I suppose one could wonder why Sheburat didn’t have a time of mourning for the dead sister, but it was clearly stated by Marcelo multiple times that diplomatic matters mattered more than their own personal feelings. Anyway, per agreement, Prince Efren is allowed to choose a sibling to wed instead. Since he likes men, he chooses Marcelo and poor Marcelo faints. He’s not been trained for this possibility, not like his deceased twin sister. He’s anxious, nervous, and scared, but at the same time excited. He didn’t know he found men attractive until Efren paid him attention. Efren is kind, thoughtful and from the beginning it’s obvious he is attracted to, and adores Marcelo. I could believe in the two as a couple they were so sweet together.

I enjoyed Marcelo and his sweetness, despite all of the monologue and the fact that the story was too short. Efren was a good character and the two men worked well as a couple. The publishing company needs to up their game at their graphic covers however. I’d like to give this book 3.5 Stars, but since I can’t, I’ll give it 4 Stars just because Marcelo is so cute and sweet.



I received a copy of this book from the author. I am giving my honest and unbiased opinion about the story.

[The Novel Approach · Rating 4 out of 5]

Prince Marcelo of Sheburat and his family mourn the unexpected death of this twin sister, Marcela, two days before her marriage to Prince Efren of Zioneven is to take place to cement a peace treaty signed long ago. When the family gathers to greet the prince, Marcelo is surprised when Efren not only notices him but reminds the queen that the treaty allows him to choose any of Marcela’s siblings, not only the remaining sisters, to fulfill it. He chooses Marcelo, much to everyone’s—but particularly Marcelo’s—surprise.

As the wedding is to take place the following day, Marcelo has very little time to prepare himself for the eventuality of his marriage to another man. Never has a royal son of his kingdom married, much less married another man, but the more he learns about both the kingdom of Zioneven and Prince Efren, the more impressed and less apprehensive he is. When he has the opportunity to talk to Eric, his long-time servant, and also converse with Prince Efren at dinner, he begins to realize that he’s no longer fearful and is actually looking forward to marrying the prince and accompanying him back to Zioneven.

The wedding and celebration convince Marcelo that his new life will be one that he will enjoy. While apprehensive, after assuming he would live a single and celibate life, Marcelo realizes that he’s anxiously awaiting and anticipating his wedding night with Prince Zefren. When things go even better than he expects, his new life seems to be a wonderful fresh new start.

This story is just a little gem! I loved Marcelo and Zefren and the way they regarded each other and came together with mutual respect. They are really interesting characters and I sure hope that the author decides to continue their stories!

Reviewed by Sadonna for The Novel Approach

[Heather York · Rating 4 out of 5]

4-1/2 Stars
With the sudden death of a princess, the arranged marriage set to finalize the peace treaty between Sheburat and the kingdom of Zioneven is thrown into question. However, a backup plan is in place and when Prince Marcelo finds he is to play a part will he and Prince Efren find happiness in this contingency plan?

The Contingency Plan may be short in pages but it's words are full of heart. I fell in love with Prince Marcelo and his sheltered life immediately and wanted him to find his HEA. Could this fantasy/fairytale been better had it been a full-length novel? Perhaps, but I have a feeling it would've been darker with more pages to fill and sometimes these short stories/novellas are perfect just as they are. I may enjoy a good angsty tale but I don't need to have it to be entertained, sometimes we find happiness simply by having our eyes opened to new things and I think that is exactly what the author has done with Princes Marcelo and Efren in Contingency. Just lovely from beginning to end and who knows maybe we'll see what the future holds for these Princes down the road😉hint hint😉 but if this is the only glimpse of Marcelo and Efren's life together we get, I was not disappointed. A wonderful gem to fill your afternoon.

I've featured Addison Albright's work on my blog before but I have never read any of her stories until now. Whether this fairy tale is her usual sub-genre doesn't matter because it was definitely a winner that has left me looking forward to checking out her backlist in the months to come.

[Violet Marshall · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first of two books. I had a hard time rating this book there are 2 directions that this book could go, and that actual decides the rating. This book is either a standalone short story/first book in a series or the prequel in a series. So, for a short story/first book I rate 3 stars. Due to the fact that it was too short, and the characters weren’t developed. I finished the book not knowing anything about either man. With the exception of where they are from and Marcelo place in his royal family. I needed more for this type of book. For a prequel I give it 4 stars it does set up the next book well but again I need to know more at least the basics of these men. (Side note I like to read about both viewpoints of main characters. So, I would’ve liked to hear from Efren. But that isn’t necessary for the book to be good just my preference.) Efren and Marcelo are the MC’s of this book. I did enjoy reading this book and aside from the issues stated above and the world building could’ve been a little better. I thought the writing was good. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book for an honest review.

[Mari Cardenas · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars!

Prince Marcelo's twin sister has been groomed to become the bride of the Crown Prince of Zioneven, but when she dies in an accident just before the wedding, Prince Efren needs to choose a new one from among Princess Marcela's siblings. The last thing Marcelo expects, though, is for the Prince to choose him.

This was a very short, very sweet fantasy read, with very light angst and while I wouldn't have minded it being longer or having at least one chapter with Prince Efren's POV, it was still enjoyable. Both Marcelo and Efren were likable characters and seemed very taken with each other, despite the way they met.

Recommendable!

*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This had a really interesting premise. I was interested in a dual POV but with how incredibly short this story was it wouldn't have worked. There was quite a bit of information subtly and fluidly given despite the lack of pages that impressed me. I felt like I knew Prince Marcelo and was genuinely happy that things worked out for him the way they did. He was introspective, intelligent, kind, eager, and curious. His intended, however, remains a relative mystery. We get to know his politics, his kingdom's dynamics, his genuine interest in Marcelo, but that's it. Knowing practically nothing about him makes this a generally nice story that didn't have quite the punch I was hoping for.

[Fritz42 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Marcelo and Efren. Marcelo was an innocent young man, destined to be alone and not valued as much as his sisters. That all changed when his sister died suddenly, and it was up to the Crown Prince Efren to choose his spouse from the remaining siblings to fulfill the treaty between the two countries. Efren chose Marcelo, and it opened up Marcelo's future in so many ways that he didn't suspect. Efren was so kind and gentle with Marcelo. Their future looks bright for the both of them.

I loved the characters, their world, and the writing. It made me want to read more, and I can only hope - maybe - that we could get more of them in the future.

[Laina Gruver · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

In a world where the women seem to be the dominant gender, Marcelo never expected to get married or even know the pleasures of the flesh. Through sad circumstances, Marcelo becomes his deceased twin’s substitute fiancé.

Set to marry a man he doesn’t know in order to finalize a treaty between their two lands, Marcelo is resigned to attend his sister’s funeral and then his new life will begin.

*****
POV… third

Standalone or series… book 1 in series

Hangover… no

Recommend… eh, maybe

Reread… possibly

[Jessie Pinkham]

This is a good short read which packs quite a bit into relatively few words. I wouldn't have minded a little more exploration, but I don't think the story really required it, either. My quibble was with the sex scene and its entirely inadequate preparation before anal sex.

Otherwise, I feel like there was quite a bit of interesting world-building, and I liked the development of Marcelo as his mind was opened to possibilities he'd never considered.

[Foster Cassidy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the idea of this story. It was super cute and sweet! But the plot could have easily been extended, elaborated, more detailed. The situation of suddenly finding yourself a husband is so complex, this story should have been three times this length. I really, really wanted to see more of the romance and the buildup and the new county and adjusting to this life. Still, for what it was, I loved it!

[Jeanine Beaulieu St Pierre · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved the book even if it was short but Prince Marcelo never thought he would marry but plans change when his sister dies while ridding her horse, but she was supposed to marry Prince Efren will little did Marcelo know that he will marry to a man and that they were more suited for each other in the end. i read this book for this author for my honest opinion

[Sarina · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5* Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.

Its always nice to find a short story that doesn’t really feel rushed and comes off as complete rather than just a prologue for something that hasn’t been written yet. Marcelo grew up knowing he’d never marry; as a son born into a matriarchal society, he didn’t even get the depth of education that his sisters were given. When his twin sister unexpectedly dies in an accident leaving a long awaited treaty between his homeland and another kingdom in jeopardy, a contingency plan is enacted which enables another of Marcelo’s siblings to be married off instead. Only, things don’t quite go according to plan as the prospective husband, Prince Efren, doesn’t choose one of Marcelo’s other sisters, he chooses Marcelo himself.

I liked this one; though short, the story didn’t feel rushed and it had a good pace overall. You also get enough background information to know what’s going on as well as a pretty decent feel for the main characters. I liked Marcelo; he took the time to educate himself on things he didn’t know and despite his unexpected circumstances, found himself more anticipating the union rather than running in terror of it. You don’t get to know Efren as well but what I saw of him, I did like. He took more into account than just his personal preferences when picking a replacement spouse and I get the feeling that he’d be a good husband.

Short and sweet this was a nice read to take a break to and while it will always be nice to see what happens next, I’m quite happy with how the story left off. If you’re looking for a quick read without any angst, I’d recommend giving this one a look.

[MM Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful arranged marriage and royalty story. I just wish it was a bit longer. But in this short story, a lot was packed in giving a good world building and great characters.

[Ash · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

The Contingency Plan is a fantasy short. For such a short format, there is a good bit of world-building that takes place that does a great job of setting the scenes without being too wordy on page. That can be difficult to do in a short story, so I was impressed with that.

I really couldn’t (and still can’t) decide if this is a story I would’ve preferred in a novella or even novel format. On one hand, there was a lot that could’ve been told that wasn’t, and there was a lot crammed into few pages that it would’ve been nice to have been able to fully explore. But on the other hand, I’m not sure a longer story would’ve held my interest.

Prince Marcelo is our sole POV narrator. Sheburat, the country of Marcelo and his family, is very different from ours. It’s a matriocracy, wherein the women lead and the men are uneducated and have no romantic futures. I had a few struggles with the portrayal, and the author wasn’t quite as subtle as she could’ve been in the world building there (it was kind of like being hit over the head with a down-with-the-patriarchy stick), but it was different, for sure. After Marcelo’s twin sister dies suddenly (like, right after - like, just 2 days after), Efren, the crown prince of Zioneven, comes to select his replacement bride.

There is no relationship building here. This isn’t really even a romance. It’s the start of one. I’d be interested to see if this short ended up being a prologue story to an upcoming novel. It ends very firmly with a HFN.

An advance copy of this book was received for review on OMGReads.

[Helena Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun, sexy, and fairytale-like. Full review to follow soon.