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The Green Princess #1
Flower
Kitrin always assumed her overprotective parents were just paranoid—until the trees started talking to her.
For sixteen years, Kitrin has longed for freedom from her parents' secluded manor. However, one day her emotions trigger flowers to bloom, roots to grasp, and trees to bend. Unable to control her unexplained abilities, she finds an anchor in a young man with sad eyes and his own secrets. A man who sends sparks through her, but who might be tied to her destruction.
Palace outcast and nephew of the king, Prince Bryce lives under the shadow of his father's execution for treason. To escape the toxic court, he takes comfort in the company of the kindhearted Kitrin. However, as the mysteries in both their pasts are revealed, he realizes the girl he loves is someone his family wants dead.
For sixteen years, Kitrin has longed for freedom from her parents' secluded manor. However, one day her emotions trigger flowers to bloom, roots to grasp, and trees to bend. Unable to control her unexplained abilities, she finds an anchor in a young man with sad eyes and his own secrets. A man who sends sparks through her, but who might be tied to her destruction.
Palace outcast and nephew of the king, Prince Bryce lives under the shadow of his father's execution for treason. To escape the toxic court, he takes comfort in the company of the kindhearted Kitrin. However, as the mysteries in both their pasts are revealed, he realizes the girl he loves is someone his family wants dead.
225 pages, ebook
Published June 30, 2018
81 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
H.L. Burke
95 books565 followersBorn in a small town in north central Oregon, H. L. Burke spent most of her childhood around trees and farm animals and was always accompanied by a book. Growing up with epic heroes from Middle Earth and Narnia keeping her company, she also became an incurable romantic.
An addictive personality, she jumped from one fandom to another, being at times completely obsessed with various books, movies, or television series (Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, and Star Trek all took their turns), but she has grown to be what she considers a well-rounded connoisseur of geek culture.
Married to her high school crush who is now a US Marine, she has moved multiple times in her adult life but believes that home is wherever her husband, two daughters, and pets are.
She is the author of a four part fantasy/romance series entitled "The Dragon and the Scholar," the Award Winning (2016 Realm Award for Young Adult Fiction) Nyssa Glass Steampunk series, and MG/Fantasy "Cora and the Nurse Dragon," among others .
Sign up for her monthly newsletter at www.hlburkeauthor.com
http://www.amazon.com/H.-L.-Burke/e/B...
An addictive personality, she jumped from one fandom to another, being at times completely obsessed with various books, movies, or television series (Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, and Star Trek all took their turns), but she has grown to be what she considers a well-rounded connoisseur of geek culture.
Married to her high school crush who is now a US Marine, she has moved multiple times in her adult life but believes that home is wherever her husband, two daughters, and pets are.
She is the author of a four part fantasy/romance series entitled "The Dragon and the Scholar," the Award Winning (2016 Realm Award for Young Adult Fiction) Nyssa Glass Steampunk series, and MG/Fantasy "Cora and the Nurse Dragon," among others .
Sign up for her monthly newsletter at www.hlburkeauthor.com
http://www.amazon.com/H.-L.-Burke/e/B...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
February 14, 2024
Everything I like in a story!
Stunning world-building, intriguing hereditary magic system, and angst-ridden swoony romance. There's even a ball. Each of the characters has depth and realistic motivations. Even the villain is conflicted, loving his brother's son but anxious to protect his throne. Layers of secrets and lies have prevented Kit from learning her heritage, and the path that leads to her destiny is a heart-wrenching adventure you won't be able to put down.
CW: fade-to-black romance, violent death (not gory)
Stunning world-building, intriguing hereditary magic system, and angst-ridden swoony romance. There's even a ball. Each of the characters has depth and realistic motivations. Even the villain is conflicted, loving his brother's son but anxious to protect his throne. Layers of secrets and lies have prevented Kit from learning her heritage, and the path that leads to her destiny is a heart-wrenching adventure you won't be able to put down.
CW: fade-to-black romance, violent death (not gory)
December 23, 2018
Reader thoughts: I really liked the first few chapters. There was a mistrusted prince, a noble girl with forbidden magic, and a mystery about their parents. Then there was instantly love between the two. Well, okay. This would not have bothered me (especially because their connection turned out to be magical later, which was WAAYY predictable) except that
THEY GOT FAKE-MARRIED after about 3 weeks. Kitrin was 16 and Bryce was 18. They decided to run away together because it was too dangerous to stay (probably). In the middle of a forest, he gives her a ring and tells her promises and says he wants to marry her but that it isn't safe to go to a chapel. She agrees since they'll be on the run for a while. She makes promises back. The next night or so, they decide they are married enough to share a bed and such (plus, they reason that they will probably die the next day and really wanted to be physically intimate before they died).
NOOOOO!!!!!!
The next day, when the king threatens Kitrin's life, Bryce tells her to marry his cousin because it would save her life. She refuses and says she is already married to Bryce. Duh.
So, Bryce decided they were married enough to have sex, but not married at the moment it might threaten Kitrin's life. Was it only a marriage of convenience, then?
Super frustrating. The two seriously could have waited to go to a chapel, even if they had to be on the run for a few years.
And Kitrin has been so secluded from the world that she didn't know mages existed. She has been stuck in her parents' manor, talking to no one but her parents and their servants for 16 years. Yet, as soon as she meets Bryce, she decides she is in love. Oh, and she kisses him passionately on their second meeting. How did she know what to do? Why does Bryce even like her? Just because she is the first girl his age that he has met who doesn't call him a "traitor's son"? Wow. Such great reasons for them to decide they are in love.
Oh, and the magical abilities were not well explained, like how one plant mage can take down an entire platoon of fire mages. Or why mages need a seed. Or how the Key magic goes to one heir at death or how that works and how it is different from normal magic. How many fire mages and plant mages were there? I wanted more about this and less about the MCs pining after each other because they just can't stand to be apart.
I returned the book and will NOT read more.
THEY GOT FAKE-MARRIED after about 3 weeks. Kitrin was 16 and Bryce was 18. They decided to run away together because it was too dangerous to stay (probably). In the middle of a forest, he gives her a ring and tells her promises and says he wants to marry her but that it isn't safe to go to a chapel. She agrees since they'll be on the run for a while. She makes promises back. The next night or so, they decide they are married enough to share a bed and such (plus, they reason that they will probably die the next day and really wanted to be physically intimate before they died).
NOOOOO!!!!!!
The next day, when the king threatens Kitrin's life, Bryce tells her to marry his cousin because it would save her life. She refuses and says she is already married to Bryce. Duh.
So, Bryce decided they were married enough to have sex, but not married at the moment it might threaten Kitrin's life. Was it only a marriage of convenience, then?
Super frustrating. The two seriously could have waited to go to a chapel, even if they had to be on the run for a few years.
And Kitrin has been so secluded from the world that she didn't know mages existed. She has been stuck in her parents' manor, talking to no one but her parents and their servants for 16 years. Yet, as soon as she meets Bryce, she decides she is in love. Oh, and she kisses him passionately on their second meeting. How did she know what to do? Why does Bryce even like her? Just because she is the first girl his age that he has met who doesn't call him a "traitor's son"? Wow. Such great reasons for them to decide they are in love.
Oh, and the magical abilities were not well explained, like how one plant mage can take down an entire platoon of fire mages. Or why mages need a seed. Or how the Key magic goes to one heir at death or how that works and how it is different from normal magic. How many fire mages and plant mages were there? I wanted more about this and less about the MCs pining after each other because they just can't stand to be apart.
I returned the book and will NOT read more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2020
VIDEO REVIEW HERE: https://youtu.be/aS43P_g9nqk
4.5 stars
It's been a long time since I read a YA that was packed full of feels. It was slightly strange at first to see the romance unfold because I didn't know what to do. LOL!
However, the author made sure I quickly learned what to do because I quickly fell in a puddle of awww, feels, and happy mush. It was a fun story and I greatly enjoyed learning about the magic. (I mean, plant magic? Definitely not a common thing I've read, especially when you have a plant dragon.) Plus, Bryce and Kit are absolutely adorable and really really loved how they grow closer to one another.
One of the most interesting things I thought when finishing this book was my feelings toward the King. I won't go into massive amount of detail, but concerning the events around Bryce, I was surprised that I didn't hate his guts by the end. Not to say that I LIKED certain decisions he made, BUT I also had sympathy for him a little bit.
Actually, after thinking about it, I think I felt this way with many characters (except a certain cousin).
Overall, this is a great story if you love a sweet romance with plants and royal members being a pain in the butt for interfering. Definitely looking forward to book two!
*I have provided an honest review after having received an ARC from the author. All thoughts expressed are my own and was not required to write a positive review.*
4.5 stars
It's been a long time since I read a YA that was packed full of feels. It was slightly strange at first to see the romance unfold because I didn't know what to do. LOL!
However, the author made sure I quickly learned what to do because I quickly fell in a puddle of awww, feels, and happy mush. It was a fun story and I greatly enjoyed learning about the magic. (I mean, plant magic? Definitely not a common thing I've read, especially when you have a plant dragon.) Plus, Bryce and Kit are absolutely adorable and really really loved how they grow closer to one another.
One of the most interesting things I thought when finishing this book was my feelings toward the King. I won't go into massive amount of detail, but concerning the events around Bryce, I was surprised that I didn't hate his guts by the end. Not to say that I LIKED certain decisions he made, BUT I also had sympathy for him a little bit.
Actually, after thinking about it, I think I felt this way with many characters (except a certain cousin).
Overall, this is a great story if you love a sweet romance with plants and royal members being a pain in the butt for interfering. Definitely looking forward to book two!
*I have provided an honest review after having received an ARC from the author. All thoughts expressed are my own and was not required to write a positive review.*
April 14, 2020
This fantasy story had all the feels! Romance, elemental magic, light political intrigue as well as intetesting characters (although Kitrin came across as *really* young even considering her sheltered state).
Still a very enjoyable story I finished in a day. ☺
Still a very enjoyable story I finished in a day. ☺
June 22, 2018
An intriguing start to a trilogy! Kitrin and Bryce were believable characters, and the magic system was clearly laid out, at least as to its basic principles; I look forward to seeing both it and the couple in action more in future books. Kit's backstory was great, and the side characters were all well-fleshed out, and Sprout is the most adorable plant dragon ever, and Kit and Bryce's genre-defying honesty to each other was beautiful to behold. Good stuff!
(I took slight issue with the handling of the vows Kit and Bryce made to each other, as well as Rollic's fairly consistent innuendoes, but that may not be an issue for every reader, so I'll let that lie.)
I received a free ARC from the author. All opinions are my own. Or whatever the proper disclaimer is on these things xD.
(I took slight issue with the handling of the vows Kit and Bryce made to each other, as well as Rollic's fairly consistent innuendoes, but that may not be an issue for every reader, so I'll let that lie.)
I received a free ARC from the author. All opinions are my own. Or whatever the proper disclaimer is on these things xD.
June 20, 2018
I got this as a e book from the author as a arc. I follow her on facebook and I put a request in for it. I enjoyed reading it. It had a good story to it. I like the variety of characters in it. I hope to read more books by this author.
June 28, 2018
What an enjoyable beginning to a trilogy. I received this as an arc. It is a story of magic and love. Kitrin (Kit) is a youn lady whose parents keep her isolated, even from the outdoors. Bryce is a prince that is not allowed to own a seed that brings out his fire magic, because his father was a traitor. His uncle,the king, raises him and does love him, however only his son will have the seed and be his successor. Kit secretly escapes her room and goes into the woods. Kit and Bryce meet in the woods and fall in love. From there secrets are revealed and lives are changed.
did-not-like
January 25, 2020DNF 64%
July 28, 2019
•audiobook•
Sex, language, rebellious kids
Two outcast kids find one another and make less sense together than apart.
Again with the let’s keep the secret from the kid although it will help her/him understand the rules. I really hope writers like this never have kids ...
The world and magic building were weak and unexplained; okay, somewhat explained during the ball but - not satisfying. The angsty romance was abundant- almost over the top.
I did like Bryce at the beginning; until the ball. Kitrin never mounted more than a over reacting B-rated actress. Definitely not heroic nor strong.
I really hoped this series would draw me in :(
Narrator didn’t hold my attention.
This is my voluntary review of an audiobook received for free.
Sex, language, rebellious kids
Two outcast kids find one another and make less sense together than apart.
Again with the let’s keep the secret from the kid although it will help her/him understand the rules. I really hope writers like this never have kids ...
The world and magic building were weak and unexplained; okay, somewhat explained during the ball but - not satisfying. The angsty romance was abundant- almost over the top.
I did like Bryce at the beginning; until the ball. Kitrin never mounted more than a over reacting B-rated actress. Definitely not heroic nor strong.
I really hoped this series would draw me in :(
Narrator didn’t hold my attention.
This is my voluntary review of an audiobook received for free.
July 10, 2018
I'll admit that I wasn't sure how I felt about this book at first. The insta-love was a little much for me, and both Kitrin and Bryce seemed a bit too naive. BUT, I became much more engaged as I read further - the stakes got higher, and the world-building was so cool once we learned about the magic system. I loved how Kitrin's parents became much more complex characters, and Rollic! I don't want to risk spoilers, so I'll just say he really surprised me in the end. I'm very curious to see what the author has in store for the rest of the series!
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.*
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.*
July 20, 2022
It was ok but i had to DNF bc of insta love 😔
If this was slow burn and less predictable then i would enjoy it more
If this was slow burn and less predictable then i would enjoy it more
October 4, 2018
I was expecting something fresh and fun, because that’s basically what H.L. Burke is all about. What I wasn’t expecting was quite so much tropey-ness, (I think this is the most clichés this author has ever put together in one place, she being rather a cliché-breaker of sorts.)
What I didn’t expect was she’d render the classic character roles into people the reader definitely finds themselves caring for... which is a feather in Burke’s cap, coming from me. (I’m really jaded when it comes to trope-ish characters, so... that impressed this reader!)
On the other hand, Burke’s treatment of several of the side characters actually made me like them more than the MCs, so I know I’ll be a little bit disappointed going forward when the MCs continue to take up more room and my favorites get shuffled off.
This book did a good job of explaining to satisfaction several of the ‘must have’ clichés for a romp of this flavor, and there were only a few, key places that the plot ‘leaped a chasm’ for plot convenience... which I totally feel would have made a much more gripping (if majorly more gritty) drama, and consequences to be wrestled with.
In the end, this is a book that I lent to my voraciously eclectic reader of a dad, assuming he’d maybe manage to get through; but it’d broaden his horizons. He liked it, while not his usual fare, and reported being quite hooked to find out “what happened next”.
If that’s not a great recommendation, I don’t know what is. If you’re remotely considering giving this a try, definitely do so.
You will not be disappointed, and I hope you, like me, will have something to think on long after the last page closes.
What I didn’t expect was she’d render the classic character roles into people the reader definitely finds themselves caring for... which is a feather in Burke’s cap, coming from me. (I’m really jaded when it comes to trope-ish characters, so... that impressed this reader!)
On the other hand, Burke’s treatment of several of the side characters actually made me like them more than the MCs, so I know I’ll be a little bit disappointed going forward when the MCs continue to take up more room and my favorites get shuffled off.
This book did a good job of explaining to satisfaction several of the ‘must have’ clichés for a romp of this flavor, and there were only a few, key places that the plot ‘leaped a chasm’ for plot convenience... which I totally feel would have made a much more gripping (if majorly more gritty) drama, and consequences to be wrestled with.
In the end, this is a book that I lent to my voraciously eclectic reader of a dad, assuming he’d maybe manage to get through; but it’d broaden his horizons. He liked it, while not his usual fare, and reported being quite hooked to find out “what happened next”.
If that’s not a great recommendation, I don’t know what is. If you’re remotely considering giving this a try, definitely do so.
You will not be disappointed, and I hope you, like me, will have something to think on long after the last page closes.
April 30, 2019
I can't believe I waited so long to read this book! It was an absolutely amazing YA/kinda NA fantasy and I think I'm going to buy the next book which pretty much never happens.
THE CHARACTERS
Kitrin started off really sheltered but was a strong-willed, smart, powerful character from the start. She's curious and doesn't take no for an answer when it comes to keeping herself hidden from the world. I got strong Rapunzel vibes from the first half of this book and Goose Girl vibes for the rest, which is nothing but a good thing! Her name gets shortened to Kit halfway through which took me by surprise. It fits her, but it felt pretty sudden. She's a really easy to like character, not a Mary Sue, and somebody who's a good role model.
Bryce, I gotta be honest, is a pretty typical YA love interest. He's a sweetie and I love how protective he is of Kitrin (while not being controlling). He's also super respectful of her honor, shall we say, to the point of being terrified of even setting foot in her bedroom. Gotta appreciate that. I kept forgetting his name, which is kind of how I felt about his character in general. But I guess everyone pales in comparison to Kitrin. He's a perfectly respectable, honorable guy.
Bryce's friend, I can't remember his name, drove me a little nuts because of the CONSTANT innuendo. Like, there's something in between "I can't step into your bedroom" and "Let's sleep with the nearest female-shaped human." Would've liked that to be dealt with. I get there are a lot of people like this, but they aren't usually the "good guys." Sigh.
Sprout is a super cute lil plant dragon and I want one of my own, please.
THE PLOT
Good pacing. Pretty dark for a YA novel, honestly, Makes the stakes feel high and realistic, though.
The writing is a little cringey at the beginning because of how sheltered and boring Kitrin's life is. But if you make it past the first couple chapters, it picks up and gets way more interesting.
The romance is sweet and sends a positive message. No glorified abusive relationship here. Yes, there's instalove, but I was pretty much in love with Kitrin within the first five chapters so I can understand how that happened. It wasn't nearly as bad with the instalove as in most YA novels. And it makes sense for both of them, given their situations (being sheltered vs. cooped up in palace with nasty cousin and desperate for companionship).
The magic was EXCELLENT and had a creative magic system that I haven't seen before.
Some of the themes make me want to call it closer to New Adult than Young Adult, though. Between the violence and constant innuendos from Bryce's buddy, I don't think my 15-year-old self would do so well with it...
In short, a thoroughly enjoyable read that I would STRONGLY recommend to fans of fantasy!
THE CHARACTERS
Kitrin started off really sheltered but was a strong-willed, smart, powerful character from the start. She's curious and doesn't take no for an answer when it comes to keeping herself hidden from the world. I got strong Rapunzel vibes from the first half of this book and Goose Girl vibes for the rest, which is nothing but a good thing! Her name gets shortened to Kit halfway through which took me by surprise. It fits her, but it felt pretty sudden. She's a really easy to like character, not a Mary Sue, and somebody who's a good role model.
Bryce, I gotta be honest, is a pretty typical YA love interest. He's a sweetie and I love how protective he is of Kitrin (while not being controlling). He's also super respectful of her honor, shall we say, to the point of being terrified of even setting foot in her bedroom. Gotta appreciate that. I kept forgetting his name, which is kind of how I felt about his character in general. But I guess everyone pales in comparison to Kitrin. He's a perfectly respectable, honorable guy.
Bryce's friend, I can't remember his name, drove me a little nuts because of the CONSTANT innuendo. Like, there's something in between "I can't step into your bedroom" and "Let's sleep with the nearest female-shaped human." Would've liked that to be dealt with. I get there are a lot of people like this, but they aren't usually the "good guys." Sigh.
Sprout is a super cute lil plant dragon and I want one of my own, please.
THE PLOT
Good pacing. Pretty dark for a YA novel, honestly, Makes the stakes feel high and realistic, though.
The writing is a little cringey at the beginning because of how sheltered and boring Kitrin's life is. But if you make it past the first couple chapters, it picks up and gets way more interesting.
The romance is sweet and sends a positive message. No glorified abusive relationship here. Yes, there's instalove, but I was pretty much in love with Kitrin within the first five chapters so I can understand how that happened. It wasn't nearly as bad with the instalove as in most YA novels. And it makes sense for both of them, given their situations (being sheltered vs. cooped up in palace with nasty cousin and desperate for companionship).
The magic was EXCELLENT and had a creative magic system that I haven't seen before.
Some of the themes make me want to call it closer to New Adult than Young Adult, though. Between the violence and constant innuendos from Bryce's buddy, I don't think my 15-year-old self would do so well with it...
In short, a thoroughly enjoyable read that I would STRONGLY recommend to fans of fantasy!
May 26, 2025
The ugly handprint of the past makes its mark on the present. Despite all efforts to wipe away all traces of its existence, a sliver remains. It’s a dangerous one, and a kingdom seems set on traveling down a familiar, tragic path. Caught in the middle are Kitrin and Prince Bryce.
Kitrin is a carefree spirit, who longs to enjoy the great outdoors rather than stay locked away learning all the facets of needlework. A slight dizziness on her part sends her mother into a panic and has her confined to her bed for a full day. And being sheltered is putting it lightly for Kitrin. Even more puzzling is there is no seeming reason for the overprotective nature of her parents. Or is there?
Then there’s Prince Bryce. He’s despised by Prince Langstyn, the King’s son, who uses every opportunity to remind Prince Bryce of the shameful legacy that shadows him. Prince Bryce is a son of a traitor executed for treason. What this treason involved no one has spoken. Yet in select moments, the King Eamon seems to have a softer demeanor toward Prince Bryce, hardly what we would expect of one fearing a boy following the same treasonous path of the father. However, sadly the king’s softer side doesn’t stay, and we watch as another side emerges soon enough. It’s the side of the king before him, one that believed that a path of tyranny and bloodshed was the only way to subdue a kingdom. And always in these wars, there are those destined to pay the price, to be sacrificed.
And Kitrin and Prince Bryce so find themselves. Their pasts have collided in devastating fashion, leaving their present world in shambles. One thing they’re sure of though is each other, that they will fight to do whatever it takes to keep the other safe. It’s not about political intrigue or a better standing in court or the comforts of life. Prince Bryce longs for someone to see him for him, not the son of a traitor or as a steppingstone to a political end. And to find love like that was beyond his imagination. But Kitrin gave him that and defended him, that he’s a “good man.” Because she knows his heart, that it bears no resemblance to the royal tyrants that he is forced to keep company with. For Prince Bryce, he has found his perfect match in Kitrin. She’s a beautiful spirit, fiercely loyal to those she cares about, and nothing will keep her from breaking her vows. Even if death stands before her and her prince. And it will.
Kitrin is a carefree spirit, who longs to enjoy the great outdoors rather than stay locked away learning all the facets of needlework. A slight dizziness on her part sends her mother into a panic and has her confined to her bed for a full day. And being sheltered is putting it lightly for Kitrin. Even more puzzling is there is no seeming reason for the overprotective nature of her parents. Or is there?
Then there’s Prince Bryce. He’s despised by Prince Langstyn, the King’s son, who uses every opportunity to remind Prince Bryce of the shameful legacy that shadows him. Prince Bryce is a son of a traitor executed for treason. What this treason involved no one has spoken. Yet in select moments, the King Eamon seems to have a softer demeanor toward Prince Bryce, hardly what we would expect of one fearing a boy following the same treasonous path of the father. However, sadly the king’s softer side doesn’t stay, and we watch as another side emerges soon enough. It’s the side of the king before him, one that believed that a path of tyranny and bloodshed was the only way to subdue a kingdom. And always in these wars, there are those destined to pay the price, to be sacrificed.
And Kitrin and Prince Bryce so find themselves. Their pasts have collided in devastating fashion, leaving their present world in shambles. One thing they’re sure of though is each other, that they will fight to do whatever it takes to keep the other safe. It’s not about political intrigue or a better standing in court or the comforts of life. Prince Bryce longs for someone to see him for him, not the son of a traitor or as a steppingstone to a political end. And to find love like that was beyond his imagination. But Kitrin gave him that and defended him, that he’s a “good man.” Because she knows his heart, that it bears no resemblance to the royal tyrants that he is forced to keep company with. For Prince Bryce, he has found his perfect match in Kitrin. She’s a beautiful spirit, fiercely loyal to those she cares about, and nothing will keep her from breaking her vows. Even if death stands before her and her prince. And it will.
July 2, 2018
Plenty of secrets and twists in this story, so it kept me turning pages.
Warning: it's a grimmer story than Burke usually writes. Still nothing I wouldn't hand to my teenager (it's not HUNGER GAMES for sure), but I was a little surprised since I've read nearly all her work and this addressed much darker themes, like betrayal and genocide.
It didn't get five stars from me because Bryce was too perfect. I wanted him to have a flaw but unless there's such a thing as loving someone too much, he didn't have one.
Kitrin evolved rather quickly into a girl who fought back. I liked her, but I felt the evolution from naive and over-protected to "my magic will save Bryce" was a little sudden. She's certainly a shero worth believing in and cheering for, however.
My interest in the magic system is piqued. I'll be looking to learn even more about how it works in the next book.
I'm anxiously awaiting the next installment. Not that this wasn't a complete story. There wasn't a cliffhanger, but the story is only beginning.
I love that Burke always plans to release complete trilogies within a few months. No endless waiting game to find out what happens next.
A perfect read for fans of magic and romance.
Warning: it's a grimmer story than Burke usually writes. Still nothing I wouldn't hand to my teenager (it's not HUNGER GAMES for sure), but I was a little surprised since I've read nearly all her work and this addressed much darker themes, like betrayal and genocide.
It didn't get five stars from me because Bryce was too perfect. I wanted him to have a flaw but unless there's such a thing as loving someone too much, he didn't have one.
Kitrin evolved rather quickly into a girl who fought back. I liked her, but I felt the evolution from naive and over-protected to "my magic will save Bryce" was a little sudden. She's certainly a shero worth believing in and cheering for, however.
My interest in the magic system is piqued. I'll be looking to learn even more about how it works in the next book.
I'm anxiously awaiting the next installment. Not that this wasn't a complete story. There wasn't a cliffhanger, but the story is only beginning.
I love that Burke always plans to release complete trilogies within a few months. No endless waiting game to find out what happens next.
A perfect read for fans of magic and romance.
June 28, 2018
This story is so cute! Kit and Bryce live in a well-rounded, believable world where magic is given only to specific people chosen by the fire king. They fall in love quickly—by their own admission—but it’s so heartfelt and real that as a reader, you can’t argue with them any more than their own friends can. You fall in love along with them, and you know it has to be true. They’re thrown into the midst of secrets and power struggles. It’s an intriguing plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat (or curled into a ball, if you read the way I do).
The depth of emotion is amazing; the characters feel real. Bryce is a sweetheart and true to himself and what he knows is right. His best friend Rollic is funny (though he definitely is such a boy!). Langstyn is easy to hate, but his father is relatable. I just love it!
I received an ARC copy of The Green Princess Trilogy: Flower. The only way I could be happier with it is if there was more!
The depth of emotion is amazing; the characters feel real. Bryce is a sweetheart and true to himself and what he knows is right. His best friend Rollic is funny (though he definitely is such a boy!). Langstyn is easy to hate, but his father is relatable. I just love it!
I received an ARC copy of The Green Princess Trilogy: Flower. The only way I could be happier with it is if there was more!
July 3, 2018
HL Burke has done it again with another super-interesting magic system. But this time she gets into politics, too.
So, there's a bunch of factions of magic users, and they all got along UNTIL THE FIRE NATION ATTACKED. Isn't that always what happens? Anyway, the heroine can use plant magic only this is bad because of THE FIRE NATION, and the fire nation prince has a connection to her because of politics, and yeah, it's complicated. And she attacks people with killer plants. It's pretty rad. I'd go more into the magic system, but it's tied pretty heavily to the political plot with the fire nation king and the plant magic rebellion, so that's about all I can say. Very enjoyable and kind of dark for Burke.
So, there's a bunch of factions of magic users, and they all got along UNTIL THE FIRE NATION ATTACKED. Isn't that always what happens? Anyway, the heroine can use plant magic only this is bad because of THE FIRE NATION, and the fire nation prince has a connection to her because of politics, and yeah, it's complicated. And she attacks people with killer plants. It's pretty rad. I'd go more into the magic system, but it's tied pretty heavily to the political plot with the fire nation king and the plant magic rebellion, so that's about all I can say. Very enjoyable and kind of dark for Burke.
July 2, 2018
This was an exciting fantasy love story. Several times I couldn't figure out which direction the author was going to take it. You can't help but root for sweet, somewhat naive, but smart and fiery Kitrin and faithful, loving Brice. They are a cute match and I am eager to know how their story will end.
I can't really say too much about the fantasy elements because I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I thoroughly enjoyed the world building and the idea of different Magi with powers that differ from the normal water, fire, earth, and air.
This book is about a PG-13 rating due to non-detailed love scenes (between a married couple) and a violent death.
I can't really say too much about the fantasy elements because I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I thoroughly enjoyed the world building and the idea of different Magi with powers that differ from the normal water, fire, earth, and air.
This book is about a PG-13 rating due to non-detailed love scenes (between a married couple) and a violent death.
July 26, 2018
Flower, Book 1 in The Green Princess Trilogy, is a coming-of-age romantic fantasy adventure by H.L. Burke. It reads like epic fantasy without being an overly long book. The characters are well-rounded, the chemistry between the hero and heroine is strong, the magical elements are interesting, and the enemy is close at hand. The story will keep you riveted as bad things happen to the people you will come to care about, leaving you wondering if the love between hero and heroine will survive through all the turmoil. It's perfect for romantics of all ages!
I received an ARC of this book. This is an honest and voluntary review.
Posted on Amanda's Books and More
I received an ARC of this book. This is an honest and voluntary review.
Posted on Amanda's Books and More
January 23, 2022
When you first begin the book, you think it's going to be a rather stereotypical Cinderella/rags-to-riches type story. Girl meets prince. They go to a ball. Fall in love, etc. Then comes the different magic classifications, a history of purging certain types of magic, Kitrin discovering her magic, and Bryce learning that doing the right thing can be incredibly hard. Blood, pain, betrayal, murder, love, friendship, magic... this book has it all.
Looking forward to Book 2!
The narrator does an excellent job of bringing the story to life. Highly recommended for any fantasy fans, whether of print books or audiobooks.
*This review refers to the audiobook version.*
Looking forward to Book 2!
The narrator does an excellent job of bringing the story to life. Highly recommended for any fantasy fans, whether of print books or audiobooks.
*This review refers to the audiobook version.*
October 27, 2018
I ran across a very similar phrase in a book I was reading this past week, a questionable phrase. "Common sense be d-----". I've heard the phrase using hanged instead and wish the two authors I read would have done the same thing. I want to believe that it is used in the right sense because I was so enjoying the story, but I was just so bothered by it that I had to quit reading. I don't read stories with cussing in them, and that just felt too much like cussing to me. I'm sorry I'll miss out on the rest of the tale.
April 2, 2019
Magical and suspenseful story
All I have to say is wow! This is my first H.L. Burke read and I'm definitely hooked to dive into more.
The characters are well developed and I'm honestly attached to them all except Langstyn...seriously do not like him. The story flows flawlessly with the perfect balance of action and sweet moments. I can't wait to find out where fate takes Kit and Bryce next! I want a HEA! Recommend this for any that love fantasy and romance.
All I have to say is wow! This is my first H.L. Burke read and I'm definitely hooked to dive into more.
The characters are well developed and I'm honestly attached to them all except Langstyn...seriously do not like him. The story flows flawlessly with the perfect balance of action and sweet moments. I can't wait to find out where fate takes Kit and Bryce next! I want a HEA! Recommend this for any that love fantasy and romance.
October 15, 2022
Engrossing tale of treachery, love, and unfolding magic. There’s a prince - disgraced due to his father’s treason, yet loved by his uncle, the king, and hated by the king’s son. There’s a missing flower mage ... a threat to the kingdom? The King thinks so ... The tale is reminiscent of a fairy tale, with well-developed characters, and an interesting magic system. Lots of twists and turns. I can’t wait for book two! I received a free copy of this audiobook, with no obligation.
August 8, 2019
A fantastic foray into a new magical world!
I was hooked and drawn in right away, finishing the book in one day. That doesn't happen often!
I was only disappointed when I realized I had book three and not book two on my kindle app :/
Burke definitely knows how to craft a complex world, and likeable characters that keep you turning those pages long after bedtime.
I was hooked and drawn in right away, finishing the book in one day. That doesn't happen often!
I was only disappointed when I realized I had book three and not book two on my kindle app :/
Burke definitely knows how to craft a complex world, and likeable characters that keep you turning those pages long after bedtime.
June 29, 2018
Flower by H. L. Burke is the first book in an engaging new trilogy. So I will start this review by saying that I desperately need book two now.
Kitrin has been sheltered her whole life so it comes as no surprise that as soon as she meets Bryce, a prince of all people, she is swept up into a world of secrets magic and danger.
Kitrin may come across as you typical damsel in distress, but she is actually very strong for someone as sheltered as she was.
This story had all the feels. Love, grief, hope, despair, and rightious anger at all the injustice.
I look forward to the completion of this series.
Kitrin has been sheltered her whole life so it comes as no surprise that as soon as she meets Bryce, a prince of all people, she is swept up into a world of secrets magic and danger.
Kitrin may come across as you typical damsel in distress, but she is actually very strong for someone as sheltered as she was.
This story had all the feels. Love, grief, hope, despair, and rightious anger at all the injustice.
I look forward to the completion of this series.
July 15, 2018
Fate, secrets, competing magical disciplines, and dragons--or one dragon, anyway.
The characters are complex and well-rounded, even the "evil" ones, who agonize over difficult choices and bow to political expediency. But never fear, there's a lout of a prince you can thoroughly dislike. Can true love win against all the odds? Not without a lot of collateral damage, it seems. Would things have been different if the two main characters hadn't been "protected" by keeping them in ignorance? Plenty of action and intrigue, but a lot to think about as well. Warning: a hard book to put down.
The characters are complex and well-rounded, even the "evil" ones, who agonize over difficult choices and bow to political expediency. But never fear, there's a lout of a prince you can thoroughly dislike. Can true love win against all the odds? Not without a lot of collateral damage, it seems. Would things have been different if the two main characters hadn't been "protected" by keeping them in ignorance? Plenty of action and intrigue, but a lot to think about as well. Warning: a hard book to put down.
July 1, 2024
Sweet, easy to read, and interesting plot with just enough romance for those of us who prefer "closed-door." At the beginning, I might have rated it 3/5, but the end solidified at least a 4, and I definitely want to read the sequels.
December 1, 2018
It was a delightful storyline that flowed easily. I do get upset when the squire tried to save the prince’s life by telling the king where they had gone. I knew it was a blunder as soon as I read it!
December 24, 2018
4 stars
// f l o w e r
RTC. ^-^
// f l o w e r
RTC. ^-^
did-not-finish
September 7, 2019DNF 42%
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