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Imposter #1
The Imposter Prince
His love for an enemy prince threatens his very life.
Dare does not mind serving the spoiled and cruel Prince Darius. Growing up with him, Dare does everything for Darius including homework, bed play demands, and even doubling for him as the prince grows too paranoid to face even the smallest of crowds.
But everything changes in a single moment when Dare, while posing as Darius, is abducted by the enemy.
A captive in a new and hostile land, Dare meets another prince who seems just as indulged and rotten as Darius—until Dare gets to know him, until they fall in love. Against his will, Dare must continue to play the role of Prince Darius for real, or risk everything: his love, his land, and his very life.
His only chance for survival is to keep a secret from the one he loves, a secret that is also killing him.
A male/male, enemies to lovers novel of mad kings, troubled princes, abduction, fevers, cold dungeons, warm hearths, comfort, wine, and true love.
Dare does not mind serving the spoiled and cruel Prince Darius. Growing up with him, Dare does everything for Darius including homework, bed play demands, and even doubling for him as the prince grows too paranoid to face even the smallest of crowds.
But everything changes in a single moment when Dare, while posing as Darius, is abducted by the enemy.
A captive in a new and hostile land, Dare meets another prince who seems just as indulged and rotten as Darius—until Dare gets to know him, until they fall in love. Against his will, Dare must continue to play the role of Prince Darius for real, or risk everything: his love, his land, and his very life.
His only chance for survival is to keep a secret from the one he loves, a secret that is also killing him.
A male/male, enemies to lovers novel of mad kings, troubled princes, abduction, fevers, cold dungeons, warm hearths, comfort, wine, and true love.
223 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2018
110 people are currently reading
264 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Rathbone
153 books347 followersWendy Rathbone has had dozens of stories published in anthologies such as: Hot Blood, Writers of the Future (second place,) Bending the Landscape, Mutation Nation, A Darke Phantastique, and more. The book "Dreams of Decadence Presents: Wendy Rathbone and Tippi Blevins" contains a large collection of her vampire stories and poems. Over 500 of her poems have been published in various anthologies and magazines. She won first place in the Anamnesis Press poetry chapbook contest with her book "Scrying the River Styx." Her poems have been nominated for the Science Fiction Poetry Association's Rhysling award at least a dozen times.
Her recent books include:
"Pale Zenith," science fiction novel
"The Foundling," male/male romance novel
"None Can Hold the Dark," sequel to "The Foundling"
"The Secret Sharer," science fiction romance novella
"Unearthly," omnibus collection of 7 out-of-print poetry booklets
"The Vampire Diaries: The Myth," available from Kindle Worlds
"The Vampire Dairies: Deep In the Virginia Woods," available from Kindle Worlds
"My House Is Full Of Whispers," erotica short story collection
"Letters To An Android," science fiction novel
Upcoming very soon:
"Risque Science Fiction," short stories by Wendy Rathbone
"The Red Fountain, Where Vampires Come to Drink," short stories and poetry by Wendy Rathbone
Look for more novels and short story collections coming up in 2014.
She lives in Yucca Valley, CA with her partner of 32 years, Della Van Hise.
Her recent books include:
"Pale Zenith," science fiction novel
"The Foundling," male/male romance novel
"None Can Hold the Dark," sequel to "The Foundling"
"The Secret Sharer," science fiction romance novella
"Unearthly," omnibus collection of 7 out-of-print poetry booklets
"The Vampire Diaries: The Myth," available from Kindle Worlds
"The Vampire Dairies: Deep In the Virginia Woods," available from Kindle Worlds
"My House Is Full Of Whispers," erotica short story collection
"Letters To An Android," science fiction novel
Upcoming very soon:
"Risque Science Fiction," short stories by Wendy Rathbone
"The Red Fountain, Where Vampires Come to Drink," short stories and poetry by Wendy Rathbone
Look for more novels and short story collections coming up in 2014.
She lives in Yucca Valley, CA with her partner of 32 years, Della Van Hise.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
April 30, 2018
This is another difficult review because I'm conflicted. I liked it but I also think it could have been so much more.
The first part of the book had me pretty riveted. I could see so much potential if the author decided to delve deep and look at why Darius and Dare were the people they were. If Darius had been a little bit more nuanced and if his cruelty was more than just immature indifference but deliberate choices. We didn't get that so I settled into dealing with an emotionally stunted, paranoid, emo prince and his servant, forced to enable and mitigate the behavior....
But then things change and Dare must navigate on his own. This is where things again, could have been much more interesting but they stayed superficial and easy to understand with hardly any internal conflict. Then the insta-friendship between Malory and Dare took away any opportunity to get to know Malory or see him struggle with allegiances or ethical conflict.
Then we get the sociopath dungeon master. Another part of the story where things could have gone below the surface but skimmed it instead. The Dungeon master is some kind of weird sociopathic philosopher that makes very little sense but seems to be spouting really important information. I really lost interest in his pontifications.
So, it's a more superficial story than I was hoping for but at the same time it was a good story. It just could have been so, so, so much more.
I do have a plot niggle that bugged me....how did the Shastan know where the Prince would be traveling? Do they have a spy in the castle? If so, how do they not know that what happened to the prince? I think this small issue made me wonder about the rest of the book too much and should have been addressed.
The first part of the book had me pretty riveted. I could see so much potential if the author decided to delve deep and look at why Darius and Dare were the people they were. If Darius had been a little bit more nuanced and if his cruelty was more than just immature indifference but deliberate choices. We didn't get that so I settled into dealing with an emotionally stunted, paranoid, emo prince and his servant, forced to enable and mitigate the behavior....
But then things change and Dare must navigate on his own. This is where things again, could have been much more interesting but they stayed superficial and easy to understand with hardly any internal conflict. Then the insta-friendship between Malory and Dare took away any opportunity to get to know Malory or see him struggle with allegiances or ethical conflict.
Then we get the sociopath dungeon master. Another part of the story where things could have gone below the surface but skimmed it instead. The Dungeon master is some kind of weird sociopathic philosopher that makes very little sense but seems to be spouting really important information. I really lost interest in his pontifications.
So, it's a more superficial story than I was hoping for but at the same time it was a good story. It just could have been so, so, so much more.
I do have a plot niggle that bugged me....how did the Shastan know where the Prince would be traveling? Do they have a spy in the castle? If so, how do they not know that what happened to the prince? I think this small issue made me wonder about the rest of the book too much and should have been addressed.
May 2, 2018
Dare and Malory
Woww this was definitely a fantastic and entertaining read. It had the taste of Game of Thrones. The dungeons, the guards, the smell, the view... it imprinted my vision... I couldn't put it down I had to know what happened next... I was greedy
Absolutely a read written in a way I prefer. Dark, desperate, a touch of sweetness, the surroundings detailed described, all vividly put down.
Dare is serving the nasty spoiled prince Darius. He is more the doormat than a server.
Sometimes Dare has to pretend to be prince Darius at events. They look like each other.
Only they are very different with characters.
When Dare is take prison by an other kingdom while pretending to be the Prince his life will never be as before.
Meeting Prince Malory is the best part. But the King has other plans... something dark, damp and violent.
I'm always in awe, the wonderful fact, what comes out of an author's brain.
This read, I adored it, written in an amazingly captivating way. It gave me all the feelings.
All the personalities were exquisitely different put down, every person his own characteristics elements, every one described in detail so you could easily see who was in front of you.
The plot was strong and very convincing put down.
Kindly received a copy from the author.
Woww this was definitely a fantastic and entertaining read. It had the taste of Game of Thrones. The dungeons, the guards, the smell, the view... it imprinted my vision... I couldn't put it down I had to know what happened next... I was greedy
Absolutely a read written in a way I prefer. Dark, desperate, a touch of sweetness, the surroundings detailed described, all vividly put down.
Dare is serving the nasty spoiled prince Darius. He is more the doormat than a server.
Sometimes Dare has to pretend to be prince Darius at events. They look like each other.
Only they are very different with characters.
When Dare is take prison by an other kingdom while pretending to be the Prince his life will never be as before.
Meeting Prince Malory is the best part. But the King has other plans... something dark, damp and violent.
I'm always in awe, the wonderful fact, what comes out of an author's brain.
This read, I adored it, written in an amazingly captivating way. It gave me all the feelings.
All the personalities were exquisitely different put down, every person his own characteristics elements, every one described in detail so you could easily see who was in front of you.
The plot was strong and very convincing put down.
Kindly received a copy from the author.
May 28, 2018
Hmm.....I’m confused..
This...started off really well. It was well written and the portrayal of the characters were very clear. Prince Darius was cruel and sadistic and quite possibly a little mad. Dare on the other hand was kind and obedient and just generally nice.
Then at the 80% mark or thereabouts (I didn’t check), it all went a little...mad. The arguments and logic didn’t make any sense and Lord Stix? What an odd, odd man. I don’t understand him at all!
This is where it went....bonkers. Dare is forsaken by his “father” so Malory’s father deems him a prisoner of war and throws him in the dungeon. Malory kicks up a fuss, like a spoilt little prince and gets his father to give Dare an audience. King what’s his name (I wasn’t paying attention by then) says since Dare is forsaken by his “father”, he has no value. A convoluted conversation later, they all agree that Dare and Malory can marry to foster peace among their kingdoms. Even though they agreed that with Dare forsaken by his father, he really has no value and can’t broker any peace! Although, maybe because Dare is his last remaining heir. But... I don’t get the logic! WILL SOMEONE EXPLAIN IT TO ME PLEASE??? *throws hands up in defeat*
This...started off really well. It was well written and the portrayal of the characters were very clear. Prince Darius was cruel and sadistic and quite possibly a little mad. Dare on the other hand was kind and obedient and just generally nice.
Then at the 80% mark or thereabouts (I didn’t check), it all went a little...mad. The arguments and logic didn’t make any sense and Lord Stix? What an odd, odd man. I don’t understand him at all!
This is where it went....bonkers. Dare is forsaken by his “father” so Malory’s father deems him a prisoner of war and throws him in the dungeon. Malory kicks up a fuss, like a spoilt little prince and gets his father to give Dare an audience. King what’s his name (I wasn’t paying attention by then) says since Dare is forsaken by his “father”, he has no value. A convoluted conversation later, they all agree that Dare and Malory can marry to foster peace among their kingdoms. Even though they agreed that with Dare forsaken by his father, he really has no value and can’t broker any peace! Although, maybe because Dare is his last remaining heir. But... I don’t get the logic! WILL SOMEONE EXPLAIN IT TO ME PLEASE??? *throws hands up in defeat*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2018
A bit wordy at times....
Okay, for me the the story was a bit stop and go. However, once I hit the sixtyish percent mark the flow did get better. My only other complaint is, while I love detail I felt that this story had a bit much to the point of wordiness IMO. The author could have put more detail into the Epilogue, because I feel that there is a lot of unanswered questions regarding the Kingdom Dare came from.
Okay, for me the the story was a bit stop and go. However, once I hit the sixtyish percent mark the flow did get better. My only other complaint is, while I love detail I felt that this story had a bit much to the point of wordiness IMO. The author could have put more detail into the Epilogue, because I feel that there is a lot of unanswered questions regarding the Kingdom Dare came from.
May 1, 2018
ARC received for voluntary review
Not gonna lie...I found this really hard to get into until about 20%. The writing felt a bit choppy, and there was an excess of comma's, plus a heck of a lot of overly descriptive and purple prose which I don't like.
Which brings me to the actual story, which does have a certain Captive Prince vibe, but these books are poles apart.
As a character, Dare is really young for eighteen. When we meet him he is basically the moody Prince Darius' plaything and he doesn't really have much of a backbone. He's just accepted his lot in life and I didn't hold much hope for him as a romantic lead. In fact for both men being 18, they are incredibly immature and they don't get much in the way of dialogue to give them much depth. It's not until Dare gets captured that we finally get to see he has some mettle.
Enter Prince Malory, and these two men begin a tentative friendship behind closed doors and away from Prince Malory's father, the king, who is Dare's captor. I liked these two together but I don't believe they had time to actually fall in love. Definitely not the kind that you defy a king for.
Overall I wanted more. More depth. More emotions. More connection. More sex. And a less rushed ending. A second POV would have been very welcome.
I also had no idea that this was a series before I read it so while I'm intrigued enough to wonder how the "big lie" is going to play out, as for being invested in a love story? I'm left wanting.
Not gonna lie...I found this really hard to get into until about 20%. The writing felt a bit choppy, and there was an excess of comma's, plus a heck of a lot of overly descriptive and purple prose which I don't like.
In the distance, dawn peeked like gilt brocade over the horizon. Westward, the falls crashed, white and frothy. The first day of their journey, they would make their way down to the narrow valley past the great falls. Dare looked forward to it. The courtyard was a whirlwind of servants, stable-boys, trainers and guards. And horses.Now I've no doubt that some of this is quite beautiful, but I still had to reread a lot of paragraphs to actually decipher what was happening in the story.
A soft wind blew Dare’s hair back from the leaf crown, feathering it. Everything sparkled as the dawn filled the world with its sprinkling of lavender, gold and muted blue light. Everything was ready. The journey would take three days.
The rain was fierce and cold. The big metal gates screeched on their hinges. They smelled of rust and sharpness. Through the whirls of water, he could barely see the yard that led to the entrance. The guards pulled him, stumbling along. The ground was slippery, the rock-lined path a river.
Which brings me to the actual story, which does have a certain Captive Prince vibe, but these books are poles apart.
As a character, Dare is really young for eighteen. When we meet him he is basically the moody Prince Darius' plaything and he doesn't really have much of a backbone. He's just accepted his lot in life and I didn't hold much hope for him as a romantic lead. In fact for both men being 18, they are incredibly immature and they don't get much in the way of dialogue to give them much depth. It's not until Dare gets captured that we finally get to see he has some mettle.
Enter Prince Malory, and these two men begin a tentative friendship behind closed doors and away from Prince Malory's father, the king, who is Dare's captor. I liked these two together but I don't believe they had time to actually fall in love. Definitely not the kind that you defy a king for.
Overall I wanted more. More depth. More emotions. More connection. More sex. And a less rushed ending. A second POV would have been very welcome.
I also had no idea that this was a series before I read it so while I'm intrigued enough to wonder how the "big lie" is going to play out, as for being invested in a love story? I'm left wanting.
October 30, 2021
Boy is trouble. Love the trope!
Girls are not the only ones entitled to being in distress.
Boys can be vulnerable too. Such is life.
Girls are not the only ones entitled to being in distress.
Boys can be vulnerable too. Such is life.
July 29, 2018
This historical fantasy, takes place in two kingdoms, As war is brewing. I found the story world vivid and well described; I felt part of the story.
At the start Dare is a servant for a spoilt prince that liked to humiliate Dare. With Dare being a lookalike of the prince, he would have Dare take his place at royal dinners and dances, etc.
When the king of the kingdom where Dare lives, receives a request of a royal marriage between the kingdoms two sons, The king rejects the idea, and both sides plot against each other.
The King sends the prince and Dare off to a country retreat in safety of the impending war. They are attacked mid journey and all but Dare (who had dressed as the Prince, as a decoy) killed in the ambush.
Dare's taken to the foreign king and kept as a prisoner. Dare and the Prince of the new kingdom cross paths, and they both feel a mutual attraction. But they are from different kingdoms, with different customs and laws. They have to navigate the sea of obstacles, not least the threat of Dare’s death when his King attacks Prince Malory’s, Kingdom.
Dare's sent to the dungeon master, who starts to break Dare’s will. The description of the Dungeon was rich with detail. I could feel the cold and damp of the dungeon.
Can Prince Malory, save Dare, and can they keep Dare’s real identity a Secret.
The story is well written and entertaining; It drew me into the vivid world, and I wanted to find out what happened to the two main characters.
At the start Dare is a servant for a spoilt prince that liked to humiliate Dare. With Dare being a lookalike of the prince, he would have Dare take his place at royal dinners and dances, etc.
When the king of the kingdom where Dare lives, receives a request of a royal marriage between the kingdoms two sons, The king rejects the idea, and both sides plot against each other.
The King sends the prince and Dare off to a country retreat in safety of the impending war. They are attacked mid journey and all but Dare (who had dressed as the Prince, as a decoy) killed in the ambush.
Dare's taken to the foreign king and kept as a prisoner. Dare and the Prince of the new kingdom cross paths, and they both feel a mutual attraction. But they are from different kingdoms, with different customs and laws. They have to navigate the sea of obstacles, not least the threat of Dare’s death when his King attacks Prince Malory’s, Kingdom.
Dare's sent to the dungeon master, who starts to break Dare’s will. The description of the Dungeon was rich with detail. I could feel the cold and damp of the dungeon.
Can Prince Malory, save Dare, and can they keep Dare’s real identity a Secret.
The story is well written and entertaining; It drew me into the vivid world, and I wanted to find out what happened to the two main characters.
May 7, 2018
I sort of wish I had a picture of the befuddled (and mildly horrified) expression I wore through most of this book. The first part wasn’t so bad, just riddled with the purplest prose I’ve ever read, and also really slow-paced. And then the poorly explained Twist happened, and I just.... switched into WTF-skimming mode, and occasionally burst into horrified laughter at just how ridiculously awful this ended up being.
June 3, 2018
4.5 stars
This was a treat to read. Dare’s life of servitude, and his acceptance of it, makes my heart ache, but the lessons he learns ultimately save him. His pragmatic, positive outlook through it all is sweet to read. The story held me spellbound throughout— I only read fast through the parts with Lord Stix—he totally skeeved me out. What a creepy character. (But so well done!) I can’t wait to read the next book as the plot will continue to thicken.
April 19, 2019
Interesting
This was an interesting story. Both characters were very likable and it was easy to like Dare. His life seemed to be a series of various types of imprisonment. But he never let it make him bitter. Mal was headstrong and willing to do what was needed to keep their secret.
This was an interesting story. Both characters were very likable and it was easy to like Dare. His life seemed to be a series of various types of imprisonment. But he never let it make him bitter. Mal was headstrong and willing to do what was needed to keep their secret.
May 15, 2018
I’d guess that everyone knows the stories of The Pauper and The Prince or Romeo and Juliet. And there have been numerous spin offs of both. In The Imposter Prince, Wendy Rathbone took the concepts of both stories and did it better. She incorporated forbidden love and the imposter prince, and turned it into an extremely interesting love story, between two men; men who shouldn’t even be in the same room together, never-mind the same bed.
Two rival kingdoms, two rival kings, and two young men who wanted nothing more than peace. What made this story so much fun to read was the prose with which Wendy wove the story. Her ability to paint a picture literally had me seeing the castles, the rooms, the distant fields. Her prose was amazing. I felt as if I were standing in the prince’s room looking out the window. I felt the fear as the palace armies thrashed until only one king’s men survived. I saw the blood as she described how the prince died in his servant’s arms.
This was a great read and I highly recommend The Imposter Prince by Wendy Rathbone to anyone who enjoys quality writing, a good storyline, and an interesting, happy ending.
Two rival kingdoms, two rival kings, and two young men who wanted nothing more than peace. What made this story so much fun to read was the prose with which Wendy wove the story. Her ability to paint a picture literally had me seeing the castles, the rooms, the distant fields. Her prose was amazing. I felt as if I were standing in the prince’s room looking out the window. I felt the fear as the palace armies thrashed until only one king’s men survived. I saw the blood as she described how the prince died in his servant’s arms.
This was a great read and I highly recommend The Imposter Prince by Wendy Rathbone to anyone who enjoys quality writing, a good storyline, and an interesting, happy ending.
April 26, 2018
*I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one elses*
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I absolutely loved it.
Dare was sweet with a compassionate heart. He accepted the life he had and tolerated Darius’s poor attitude and abuse. I admired Dare’s ability to step in and pose as the Prince and he does so with his head held high and proud.
Dare’s life goes downhill when he’s kidnapped but he surprised me every step of the way.
Malory and Dare had a beautiful connection and I enjoyed their interactions.
My heart was racing towards the end as everything unfolded. Dare’s situation changes drastically but will Malory come through for him or abandon him to his fate?
This was a good read with sufficient heat, drama and danger to keep you hooked. The characters made the story come alive and I enjoyed every minute of it.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I absolutely loved it.
Dare was sweet with a compassionate heart. He accepted the life he had and tolerated Darius’s poor attitude and abuse. I admired Dare’s ability to step in and pose as the Prince and he does so with his head held high and proud.
Dare’s life goes downhill when he’s kidnapped but he surprised me every step of the way.
Malory and Dare had a beautiful connection and I enjoyed their interactions.
My heart was racing towards the end as everything unfolded. Dare’s situation changes drastically but will Malory come through for him or abandon him to his fate?
This was a good read with sufficient heat, drama and danger to keep you hooked. The characters made the story come alive and I enjoyed every minute of it.
December 31, 2018
Princely romance
What is it that makes a prince? Is it by birth? Royal blood? Or is it a heart that is loyal, pure, honest and kind? I like how Wendy Rathbone crafted a well described world filled with majestic realms, stark dungeons, and intriguing kings. The royal court comes alive in my mind, led by Ms Rathbone writing. She takes my hand, and draws me through secret passages, lavish throne rooms, and down to the dank, depressing dungeon. I am intrigued by the dungeon master, Stix, and can't decide if I like him or not. It's expert writing and a well formed storyline that will keep me coming back to book 2.
What is it that makes a prince? Is it by birth? Royal blood? Or is it a heart that is loyal, pure, honest and kind? I like how Wendy Rathbone crafted a well described world filled with majestic realms, stark dungeons, and intriguing kings. The royal court comes alive in my mind, led by Ms Rathbone writing. She takes my hand, and draws me through secret passages, lavish throne rooms, and down to the dank, depressing dungeon. I am intrigued by the dungeon master, Stix, and can't decide if I like him or not. It's expert writing and a well formed storyline that will keep me coming back to book 2.
dnf
July 25, 2020rating: dnf
I put this as dnf because I basically read the beginning and skipped to the end. Story didn't really grab me. I didn't really like the ending which is why I didn't go back and read the rest of the book. On the surface it seems to be a HEA, but really there is so much that could go wrong. The author has mentioned a sequel. I may check it out just to see how the tale unfolds.
I put this as dnf because I basically read the beginning and skipped to the end. Story didn't really grab me. I didn't really like the ending which is why I didn't go back and read the rest of the book. On the surface it seems to be a HEA, but really there is so much that could go wrong. The author has mentioned a sequel. I may check it out just to see how the tale unfolds.
June 17, 2018
While I feel like this had a great premise, the execution fell terribly flat. I didn’t connect with either of the MCs and their chemistry was very lacklustre. Yawn.
May 22, 2019
This was a quick, mostly light read. The blub gives a pretty good idea what to expect, and introduces the main characters of Darius, Dare, and Malory. Darius is a spoiled, fearful, insecure prince of Brookfall. His only companion and closest “friend” is Dare – short for Darius, and who is of similar age, looks and build (coincidence? I think not…), but completely different in temperament and understanding of the way life in the palace works. Who also answers to “Footstool” when Darius orders it. Malory is the Prince of Shastan, a neighboring country who sends a delegation to Brookfall to attempt to negotiate peace between their lands before a war can break out.
Ms. Rathbone does an excellent job painting the tapestry of this world, giving us colors and sounds and shapes and scents and flavors to immerse ourselves in. Her settings are rich and populated, and offer solid visuals as we read the story of Dare and Malory.
As for their romance, it is sweet and slow, though I wouldn’t exactly call them “enemies” at the beginning. From antagonistic sides, yes, but there was never any animosity between them; they were both just curious and in Dare’s case, just trying to survive what new curve balls life was throwing at him. I think I would have liked to see a little more of them “in situation” as they got to know each other, though, instead of how most of their getting to know each other happens over the span of several weeks and is presented to us in large brush strokes with little detail to really show how Dare and Malory get to know each other as they play board games with each other. That would help to justify the payoff of Malory’s actions on Dare’s behalf in the final quarter of the story.
Coupled with wishing how we could see a bit more of the evolution of the rapport between Dare and Malory to really get a sense of fulfillment with how things go by the end, I also would have liked to see a stronger setting up of the politics between the two countries. We never have any real idea why the king of Brookfall would want to go to war against Shastan in the first place – especially since this threat of war and the peace delegation play so directly into putting Dare and Malory together. There is not even a mention of something like asserting borders or claiming lands that would incite a war in the near-future. Basically, a little more world-building would have been appreciated, as it would contribute to making the relationship between Dare and Malory that much richer. But then, maybe I’m asking for something this book was never trying to give in the first place. Rather, The Imposter Prince is more about getting a servant-turned-imposter-prince and a real Prince together for romance.
(Well, once you get over the whole turn of events with Stix – that was some pretty serious stuff, and while it was not uncalled for, it did seem somewhat out of place with just how serious and philosophical it was compared to everything else. The philosophical bit made it come across slightly less like it was in there just to create friction and check off some boxes for her preferred themes such as . But I could still feel my eyes gloss over and my mind wander when reading Stix’s ramblings – he comes across as a self-brain-washed fanatic, and while that’s not inherently bad (in fact, it works quite well for his character and how things go for Dare with him by the end), I think it was because I recognized his zeal for what he was saying that I instinctively wanted to ignore his droning as the talk of, well, a fanatic with whom it is nigh impossible to talk/make see reason.)
All in all, a quaint read, serious but not too much, fluffy but not too much, and good to while away a few hours. I’m a little curious to read the second book, to see if we’ll get more world-building, or if it will remain focused largely on just Dare and Malory. I suspect the latter, but I still hope for the former, as for me at least, I like it when my romance has a solid non-romantic plot threading through it to support the romantic thread.
Favorite quotes:
The odd thing was, though Darius had been troubled, he’d been right about everything. The world might be a beautiful backdrop, but it was merely the fancy plate upon which horror was eventually served, for no goodness lasted forever, no happiness, no peace. – place 618/3455
“You cannot change the sky, or the way the snow falls when the wind forms curls of itself upon the land, but you can choose which way to travel, whether it be over rocks and bone leaving trails of waste in your wake, or upward, toward the beauty only you yourself can create. […] There is no truth without some falsehood; for every best interest you will find a prejudice to follow for how can we achieve the things we want without turning the phrase to convince the world we are worthy? -- place 2193/3455
[“]There is a difference between pride of position and arrogance of heart.[”] – place 2889/3455
Typos:
Ms. Rathbone does an excellent job painting the tapestry of this world, giving us colors and sounds and shapes and scents and flavors to immerse ourselves in. Her settings are rich and populated, and offer solid visuals as we read the story of Dare and Malory.
As for their romance, it is sweet and slow, though I wouldn’t exactly call them “enemies” at the beginning. From antagonistic sides, yes, but there was never any animosity between them; they were both just curious and in Dare’s case, just trying to survive what new curve balls life was throwing at him. I think I would have liked to see a little more of them “in situation” as they got to know each other, though, instead of how most of their getting to know each other happens over the span of several weeks and is presented to us in large brush strokes with little detail to really show how Dare and Malory get to know each other as they play board games with each other. That would help to justify the payoff of Malory’s actions on Dare’s behalf in the final quarter of the story.
Coupled with wishing how we could see a bit more of the evolution of the rapport between Dare and Malory to really get a sense of fulfillment with how things go by the end, I also would have liked to see a stronger setting up of the politics between the two countries. We never have any real idea why the king of Brookfall would want to go to war against Shastan in the first place – especially since this threat of war and the peace delegation play so directly into putting Dare and Malory together. There is not even a mention of something like asserting borders or claiming lands that would incite a war in the near-future. Basically, a little more world-building would have been appreciated, as it would contribute to making the relationship between Dare and Malory that much richer. But then, maybe I’m asking for something this book was never trying to give in the first place. Rather, The Imposter Prince is more about getting a servant-turned-imposter-prince and a real Prince together for romance.
(Well, once you get over the whole turn of events with Stix – that was some pretty serious stuff, and while it was not uncalled for, it did seem somewhat out of place with just how serious and philosophical it was compared to everything else. The philosophical bit made it come across slightly less like it was in there just to create friction and check off some boxes for her preferred themes such as . But I could still feel my eyes gloss over and my mind wander when reading Stix’s ramblings – he comes across as a self-brain-washed fanatic, and while that’s not inherently bad (in fact, it works quite well for his character and how things go for Dare with him by the end), I think it was because I recognized his zeal for what he was saying that I instinctively wanted to ignore his droning as the talk of, well, a fanatic with whom it is nigh impossible to talk/make see reason.)
All in all, a quaint read, serious but not too much, fluffy but not too much, and good to while away a few hours. I’m a little curious to read the second book, to see if we’ll get more world-building, or if it will remain focused largely on just Dare and Malory. I suspect the latter, but I still hope for the former, as for me at least, I like it when my romance has a solid non-romantic plot threading through it to support the romantic thread.
Favorite quotes:
The odd thing was, though Darius had been troubled, he’d been right about everything. The world might be a beautiful backdrop, but it was merely the fancy plate upon which horror was eventually served, for no goodness lasted forever, no happiness, no peace. – place 618/3455
“You cannot change the sky, or the way the snow falls when the wind forms curls of itself upon the land, but you can choose which way to travel, whether it be over rocks and bone leaving trails of waste in your wake, or upward, toward the beauty only you yourself can create. […] There is no truth without some falsehood; for every best interest you will find a prejudice to follow for how can we achieve the things we want without turning the phrase to convince the world we are worthy? -- place 2193/3455
[“]There is a difference between pride of position and arrogance of heart.[”] – place 2889/3455
Typos:
May 5, 2018
I find a lot of books make too many of the characters nice but boring and the villains are often very one dimensional but Darius was an absolute gem of an asshole character done right. You felt for Dare so much at the start of the book and I really felt like I connected with the characters in the book especially the MC.
I love Dare and just found him such a charming character, and you cannot help but want him and Malory to get on well and get some joy in his life. The whole prison scene was very interesting and once again it did not play into stereotypes of how you think characters are going to be.
Overall I loved this book, the characters are great, the writing style is beautifully done and I read it in one go as I couldn't wait to see what happens next and I honestly cannot wait until book 2 comes out.
I love Dare and just found him such a charming character, and you cannot help but want him and Malory to get on well and get some joy in his life. The whole prison scene was very interesting and once again it did not play into stereotypes of how you think characters are going to be.
Overall I loved this book, the characters are great, the writing style is beautifully done and I read it in one go as I couldn't wait to see what happens next and I honestly cannot wait until book 2 comes out.
May 1, 2018
Awesome story. First time author for me and I definitely want to read more. Dare is someone I think everyone will be able to connect to right off the bat. Having to pretend to be someone like Darius is really out of character. Then through that choice he meets Malory, and you'll be hooked. Great creative story and characters, read it in one night. Can't wait for the next. I voluntarily reviewed an 'Advance Author’s Copy' of this book.
May 9, 2018
A fantastically well written story that captivated me from beginning to end. It kept me on my toes from one moment to the next wondering what would happen. Dare is a wonderful character who serves Prince Darius and does everything for him. Dare meets and falls in love with Malory when he is taken by another kingdom while pretending to be Darius. Oh what a tangled web!! Can't wait for the next one!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
February 5, 2019
Small little grammar hiccups that occur a few times throughout book ex. silken palace -->silken pallet? is just one example
Eighteen (almost nineteen) year old Darius (Dare) is the childhood companion/servant and double of a mean and paranoid prince, Prince Darius of Brookfall (both share the same name, no surnames in this) that he's been serving since the age of five. He's the Prince's complete opposite and he doesn't bemoan his position even if it's extremely unpleasant. He counts himself lucky sharing in the luxury knowing his life could be much more unfortunate if the king had not brought him to the palace as a companion for his son.
Things get a bit more tricky for Dare when the king of Brookfall allows the delegates of another kingdom into his for the opportunity for peace talk. Dare is told to impersonate the prince by Prince Darius, whom refuses to attend the dinner feast with people he doesn't trust and believes are savages.
Dare is use to doing it since Prince Darius hasn't done so since his younger teen years due to increasing paranoia over the years. The night seems to go well until the delegation party is thrown out by the king over an insult. The possibility of peace between the two kingdom become a bit more tense. Fear/paranoia for the safety of his son, the King decides to send him to their summer chateau. Unfortunately the journey becomes a tragedy and forces Dare into a position he couldn't have foreseen.
A lot happens in this book and it's hard to even summarize without giving a lot away (see how much I gave away above???). Dare's situation in Brookfall isn't the best but he's optimistic about life and daydreams about what most people do. When he's mistaken as the prince and taken captive he does what he has to to survive . His compassion, intelligence and personality was very likable and I did feel for him in the situations he found himself in.
Prince Mallory was also likable and his kingdom was more pleasant than that of Brookfall. I liked that he was more open-minded and accepting of other. That he was willing to make his own conclusion and his own decisions.
I liked the slow build that occurred between the two. A majority of the book is Dare and Mal getting to know each other and being able to determine what kind of person they are. It's something I appreciate unfolding in any book I have come across. Dare's guilt of his duplicity and Mal's fall/intense feelings were things that hit the spot for me. It was a very good read and not as dark a romance as it could have been or that I thought it would be.
There is a minor scene with torture (minor whipping) and violence within the book.
Eighteen (almost nineteen) year old Darius (Dare) is the childhood companion/servant and double of a mean and paranoid prince, Prince Darius of Brookfall (both share the same name, no surnames in this) that he's been serving since the age of five. He's the Prince's complete opposite and he doesn't bemoan his position even if it's extremely unpleasant. He counts himself lucky sharing in the luxury knowing his life could be much more unfortunate if the king had not brought him to the palace as a companion for his son.
Things get a bit more tricky for Dare when the king of Brookfall allows the delegates of another kingdom into his for the opportunity for peace talk. Dare is told to impersonate the prince by Prince Darius, whom refuses to attend the dinner feast with people he doesn't trust and believes are savages.
Dare is use to doing it since Prince Darius hasn't done so since his younger teen years due to increasing paranoia over the years. The night seems to go well until the delegation party is thrown out by the king over an insult. The possibility of peace between the two kingdom become a bit more tense. Fear/paranoia for the safety of his son, the King decides to send him to their summer chateau. Unfortunately the journey becomes a tragedy and forces Dare into a position he couldn't have foreseen.
A lot happens in this book and it's hard to even summarize without giving a lot away (see how much I gave away above???). Dare's situation in Brookfall isn't the best but he's optimistic about life and daydreams about what most people do. When he's mistaken as the prince and taken captive he does what he has to to survive . His compassion, intelligence and personality was very likable and I did feel for him in the situations he found himself in.
Prince Mallory was also likable and his kingdom was more pleasant than that of Brookfall. I liked that he was more open-minded and accepting of other. That he was willing to make his own conclusion and his own decisions.
I liked the slow build that occurred between the two. A majority of the book is Dare and Mal getting to know each other and being able to determine what kind of person they are. It's something I appreciate unfolding in any book I have come across. Dare's guilt of his duplicity and Mal's fall/intense feelings were things that hit the spot for me. It was a very good read and not as dark a romance as it could have been or that I thought it would be.
There is a minor scene with torture (minor whipping) and violence within the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2020
Blurb = (Scale 1-10)
8
My Genre Scale = (Scale 1-10)
8
Odds if not your genre = (Scale 1-10)
4
What stood out =
The irony of the Abduction and the brutality. The crazy, cruel, dungeon master waxing philosophical.
Warnings =
None really, other than a relatively graphic dungeon scene.
Series Notes =
1st of at least 2. This ends with a HFN and closure, but with enough loose ends to support a following book. I will read the next one.
Rating Notes =
A solid 3.5 read that I feel I could justify going up or down on in the rating. The development of the m/c's was a little uneven. We really get to know Dare and understand both how he could act like a prince but handle being a prisoner.
We never really get to know what makes Malory tick or even his life growing up. The King and Queen are completely one dimensional. We are given no real explanation of why the 2 kingdoms have been at war off and on for years, nor how they knew where to find the Prince's Caravan?
We were told it was weeks that Dare was visiting the Prince, but it did not feel like weeks. It made their relationship feel kind of Insta-lovish.
The "Trial" of Dare felt very convoluted at the end. Yet, even with the above I stayed engaged and entertained. There were definitely elements that make this an above average read. As usual, It all boils down to preferences.
Blurb rating purpose:
( I don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "?whatever?", I shouldn't give it 2 stars, JUST based on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.)
Review Factors:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. . I read at least 100+ books a year - at an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much, much, higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2020) was a 3.72 average for 1390 books. Which considering, the more you read, the better you should be at picking out books you like, I feel is a accurate average.
8
My Genre Scale = (Scale 1-10)
8
Odds if not your genre = (Scale 1-10)
4
What stood out =
The irony of the Abduction and the brutality. The crazy, cruel, dungeon master waxing philosophical.
Warnings =
None really, other than a relatively graphic dungeon scene.
Series Notes =
1st of at least 2. This ends with a HFN and closure, but with enough loose ends to support a following book. I will read the next one.
Rating Notes =
A solid 3.5 read that I feel I could justify going up or down on in the rating. The development of the m/c's was a little uneven. We really get to know Dare and understand both how he could act like a prince but handle being a prisoner.
We never really get to know what makes Malory tick or even his life growing up. The King and Queen are completely one dimensional. We are given no real explanation of why the 2 kingdoms have been at war off and on for years, nor how they knew where to find the Prince's Caravan?
We were told it was weeks that Dare was visiting the Prince, but it did not feel like weeks. It made their relationship feel kind of Insta-lovish.
The "Trial" of Dare felt very convoluted at the end. Yet, even with the above I stayed engaged and entertained. There were definitely elements that make this an above average read. As usual, It all boils down to preferences.
Blurb rating purpose:
( I don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "?whatever?", I shouldn't give it 2 stars, JUST based on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.)
Review Factors:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. . I read at least 100+ books a year - at an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much, much, higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2020) was a 3.72 average for 1390 books. Which considering, the more you read, the better you should be at picking out books you like, I feel is a accurate average.
June 21, 2024
This is a well written and really enjoyable book. I just want to get that out of the way. I finished it in one sitting and was more than happy to give it a proud 5 stars.
Pros:
Just very well done in general. The protagonist is very easy to cheer for and i finished it feeling all "😊😊😊". I'll ask my cat if that's what my face actually looked like but it's how I felt.
Cons:
Look. In a vacuum this is a great book. But in reality it's very much a part of a niche genre and when placed in that genre basket it does come up with one glaring issue. It's short. Lots happens, everything worded beautifully, but there's no vivid painting in the mind. Things move fast and you just don't have the time to emotionally invest before being corralled onto the next big thing.
Is this a deal breaker? No. But it just means that for me this one is still great- but not a top tier brilliant read that leaves me with brain rot and ruins all my next reads for 6-12 months. Probably for the best honestly as I haven't finished my book challenge.
Though there is a sequel. I may change my mind yet.
Anyway. Meta info.
[MM, historic fantasy, political intrigue, explicit]
Spice amount: 🔥🔥🔥
-------
Storytelling: 📖📖📖📖📖 (easy 5/5. Skilfully written)
Pacing: ⏰️⏰️⏰️ (3/5 because in its genre, it's too fast)
Characters: 🤴🤴🤴🤴🤴 (5/5. Only one really matters and he's delightful)
Court Politics: 📜📜📜📜📜(5/5 for irl accuracy. I got mad at the politicians for their bs)
Old rich men's bs: 💩💩💩💩💩 (5/5 poops. There sure was enough of it to be believable!)
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 (for execution and placement it was pretty much what it needed to be I think)
------
TOTAL: 4.5/5. Great objectively, but definitely missing a few chapters to really round it out.
Pros:
Just very well done in general. The protagonist is very easy to cheer for and i finished it feeling all "😊😊😊". I'll ask my cat if that's what my face actually looked like but it's how I felt.
Cons:
Look. In a vacuum this is a great book. But in reality it's very much a part of a niche genre and when placed in that genre basket it does come up with one glaring issue. It's short. Lots happens, everything worded beautifully, but there's no vivid painting in the mind. Things move fast and you just don't have the time to emotionally invest before being corralled onto the next big thing.
Is this a deal breaker? No. But it just means that for me this one is still great- but not a top tier brilliant read that leaves me with brain rot and ruins all my next reads for 6-12 months. Probably for the best honestly as I haven't finished my book challenge.
Though there is a sequel. I may change my mind yet.
Anyway. Meta info.
[MM, historic fantasy, political intrigue, explicit]
Spice amount: 🔥🔥🔥
-------
Storytelling: 📖📖📖📖📖 (easy 5/5. Skilfully written)
Pacing: ⏰️⏰️⏰️ (3/5 because in its genre, it's too fast)
Characters: 🤴🤴🤴🤴🤴 (5/5. Only one really matters and he's delightful)
Court Politics: 📜📜📜📜📜(5/5 for irl accuracy. I got mad at the politicians for their bs)
Old rich men's bs: 💩💩💩💩💩 (5/5 poops. There sure was enough of it to be believable!)
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 (for execution and placement it was pretty much what it needed to be I think)
------
TOTAL: 4.5/5. Great objectively, but definitely missing a few chapters to really round it out.
May 24, 2018
ARC review 3.5 stars
I was a bit confused as to the names of the characters as they were the same and I didn't like the choice in name. I hate when stories are like that (I tried reading Will Grayson Will Grayson - did not finish). However, I really gave this a chance and I was pleasantly surprised. Darius is basically the doppelganger to the nation's spoiled and abhorrent Prince Darius. A time comes when Dare is legitimately mistaken for the prince and is more or less kidnapped and ends up with Malory, a neighboring kingdom's prince and his family.
The development between Malory and Dare I think felt rush, especially because of the times where Dare's intentions were questioned and he was imprisoned. Dare had an unusual innocence to him, which really played well into his imprisonment towards the end. A lot of people probably weren't a fan of that because it seemed hardcore, but the extreme contrasts and the different take on darkness and cruelty was something I had never read before in the way it was done in this story, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
For me I wish the story could have been longer. It seemed like Dare and Malory were rushed into falling for each other because of the slow set up and how often they weren't together, not to mention the epiloug which I felt was unnecessary if it wasn't going to be substantial.
This might not be everyone's cup o' tea, but I thought it was a nice little story with not a lot of angsty drama. 3.5 stars
I was a bit confused as to the names of the characters as they were the same and I didn't like the choice in name. I hate when stories are like that (I tried reading Will Grayson Will Grayson - did not finish). However, I really gave this a chance and I was pleasantly surprised. Darius is basically the doppelganger to the nation's spoiled and abhorrent Prince Darius. A time comes when Dare is legitimately mistaken for the prince and is more or less kidnapped and ends up with Malory, a neighboring kingdom's prince and his family.
The development between Malory and Dare I think felt rush, especially because of the times where Dare's intentions were questioned and he was imprisoned. Dare had an unusual innocence to him, which really played well into his imprisonment towards the end. A lot of people probably weren't a fan of that because it seemed hardcore, but the extreme contrasts and the different take on darkness and cruelty was something I had never read before in the way it was done in this story, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
For me I wish the story could have been longer. It seemed like Dare and Malory were rushed into falling for each other because of the slow set up and how often they weren't together, not to mention the epiloug which I felt was unnecessary if it wasn't going to be substantial.
This might not be everyone's cup o' tea, but I thought it was a nice little story with not a lot of angsty drama. 3.5 stars
May 21, 2019
This story is presented as a fantasy, but it's more like a fairytale without the fairies. I couldn't find a hint of magic in it. The world is European medieval in flavor with warring kingdoms and princes and swords. What the book really is is a romance between a captured "double" or imposter intended to be protection for one country's crown prince and the crown prince of another (traditionally enemy) state.
While this was a fun fast read, it left me wishing there was more to it. More depth. More realism. As an example, though there is a combat that is a pivotal moment of change and, while both Prince Darius and Dare had at least a minimal amount of combat training, how the battle plays out is not described. Only the aftermath and how sickened by it Dare is.
Perhaps my favorite part of the book was Dare deciding to "be" Prince Darius and try to be the best Prince and, if things work out well, King he can be. He intends, with Mallory's ready assistance, to be the kind of ruler kings should be - one who cares for his people, one who understands the proper way to rule is to serve, giving his subjects what they actually need, not just what he (or they, for that matter) want.
So my overall impression of the book is that the premise is wonderful and, while it doesn't reach the potential it could have, it is a good quick summer read.
Thanks to Wendy Rathbone for giving me a copy of the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
While this was a fun fast read, it left me wishing there was more to it. More depth. More realism. As an example, though there is a combat that is a pivotal moment of change and, while both Prince Darius and Dare had at least a minimal amount of combat training, how the battle plays out is not described. Only the aftermath and how sickened by it Dare is.
Perhaps my favorite part of the book was Dare deciding to "be" Prince Darius and try to be the best Prince and, if things work out well, King he can be. He intends, with Mallory's ready assistance, to be the kind of ruler kings should be - one who cares for his people, one who understands the proper way to rule is to serve, giving his subjects what they actually need, not just what he (or they, for that matter) want.
So my overall impression of the book is that the premise is wonderful and, while it doesn't reach the potential it could have, it is a good quick summer read.
Thanks to Wendy Rathbone for giving me a copy of the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 15, 2018
👑 👬 Liked the developing ❤romance, not the dungeonmaster!🏰
October 14, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
💕🔥👬 This MM fantasy/fairytale had an interesting plot, good and decent heroes, plenty of villains and racier moments. It was well-written and I enjoyed reading about Dare's unexpected change in circumstances and developing relationship with👑 Prince Malory. Dare, despite his occasional tears, is some tough cookie, habituated to cruelty and yet not willing to write off everyone as evil because of his harsh treatment from a tender age. This story had vague shades of Twain's The Prince and the Pauper but with some steamier and sadistic aspects that keep it appropriate for adults only.
The story lost a bit of traction for me once the dungeon master and his philosophizing took over. I was glad it eventually moved on. The HFN ending was brief and I look forward to reading the sequel to find out how Dare's big secret pans out.
I read a complimentary copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 14, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
💕🔥👬 This MM fantasy/fairytale had an interesting plot, good and decent heroes, plenty of villains and racier moments. It was well-written and I enjoyed reading about Dare's unexpected change in circumstances and developing relationship with👑 Prince Malory. Dare, despite his occasional tears, is some tough cookie, habituated to cruelty and yet not willing to write off everyone as evil because of his harsh treatment from a tender age. This story had vague shades of Twain's The Prince and the Pauper but with some steamier and sadistic aspects that keep it appropriate for adults only.
The story lost a bit of traction for me once the dungeon master and his philosophizing took over. I was glad it eventually moved on. The HFN ending was brief and I look forward to reading the sequel to find out how Dare's big secret pans out.
I read a complimentary copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 8, 2018
This book has a very interesting spin on the historical/renaissance trope. I went into the book thinking it would be all sweet but it wasn't. Trigger warning for those who may need it, there is violence, brutality, and other not so wonderful things, HOWEVER , they are in line with time in which this book is set. I have definitely seen a lot worse in some of the television series that are set in this type of time period. That being said, the story was well written and I enjoyed it. My heart went out to Dare on so many occasions and I wanted to wrap him up somewhere and keep him safe. The ending seemed a little abrupt but I was happy to see Mallory go up against his father for the man he had fallen in love with. I am reading the next one in the series because I want to see what happens with these two.
June 15, 2018
Probably 2.5 Stars. Lots of unrealized potential in the story.
There were lots of rough places and underdeveloped characters. Like another reviewer, I was distracted by some plot holes. If the initial delegation was kicked out unceremoniously and set upon by bandits, why be so hateful towards the realm unless you believe it was king’s men in disguise. Also, how did they know so much about the prince’s movements to waylay his party but not know he had a lookalike boyhood friend? How did the king not notice the corpse of his son or even wonder due to the clothing on the remains whether it was Dare or not? Why wouldn’t the king bargain for the return of his only son.
There were lots of rough places and underdeveloped characters. Like another reviewer, I was distracted by some plot holes. If the initial delegation was kicked out unceremoniously and set upon by bandits, why be so hateful towards the realm unless you believe it was king’s men in disguise. Also, how did they know so much about the prince’s movements to waylay his party but not know he had a lookalike boyhood friend? How did the king not notice the corpse of his son or even wonder due to the clothing on the remains whether it was Dare or not? Why wouldn’t the king bargain for the return of his only son.
July 15, 2018
Did it all feel like a giant setup? Yeah, it kinda did. It felt like at any moment the kings would pop out and say "Hah! We knew we could make you fall in love if given half a chance." Save for the darker aspects of the book, the death of the real prince and the entire escort party, and the lengthy torture scene in the Shastan dungeon, it really did feel like that.The level of sexiness was fairly low with only 2.5 scenes to speak of, 1.5 happening between our mains, one with a broken ankle and the other with a shredded back from the whipping. Though the story does end with a HEA, it raises more questions than it answers, and is slightly unsatisfying.
May 22, 2019
Dare has spent a lifetime doing what was required
Dare has spent a lifetime doing what is required, to the point it has become engrained in him... but what happens when he is faced with an opportunity to do something he want??
Malory had heard the rumors about his counterpart, but from the moment he actually meets Dare, it is like he is an entirely different man than the one who created his reputation. It is a mystery he is determined to figure out.
A surprisingly enjoyable read, perhaps because we can each relate to Dare’s living up to other’s expectations, and working so hard to live by the rules and within the boundaries of his life.
Dare has spent a lifetime doing what is required, to the point it has become engrained in him... but what happens when he is faced with an opportunity to do something he want??
Malory had heard the rumors about his counterpart, but from the moment he actually meets Dare, it is like he is an entirely different man than the one who created his reputation. It is a mystery he is determined to figure out.
A surprisingly enjoyable read, perhaps because we can each relate to Dare’s living up to other’s expectations, and working so hard to live by the rules and within the boundaries of his life.
June 20, 2018
I like this, I really did but I felt like we really missed a lot of the build up of the relationship between Mal and Dare, we know they were getting to really know and like one another but it is mostly shown and never told. So it was a bit of disappointment on that front.
On the plus side I did like them together and when we got scenes with them I could usually fell their chemistry. There was also a lot of political intrigue and some good angst. Overall decent read and I will be reading the next one
On the plus side I did like them together and when we got scenes with them I could usually fell their chemistry. There was also a lot of political intrigue and some good angst. Overall decent read and I will be reading the next one
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