A comedic brand of Reverse Harem like you’ve never read before. Meet Catherine of the Southern Kingdom—a foul-mouthed, unladylike Princess who never anticipated three dhampir Princes aiding in her quest to save her sister’s life.
Catherine is next in line to become Queen of the Southern Kingdom; she’s a fighter not a leader. She’d much rather slay dragons alongside the royal guard than wear a crown.
During an outing in the forest, her sister Lucy is kidnapped by the Drakin Clan—cruel dragon shifters who’ve been terrorising surrounding kingdoms for decades.
At the request of the king, and Catherine’s only option, she must strike a deal with the three princes of the Western Kingdom.
The wickedly handsome dhampir brothers insist upon her choosing one of them as her mate and future king to rule alongside her in return for their aid in rescuing Lucy.
These men will fight for her, drive her insane and compete for her affection. Will she be able to resist their forward affections or finally open her heart to love?
A dangerous quest, a feisty, badass princess with a destiny who must keep her cool around three insanely inappropriate dhampir Princes.
Joanna Mazurkiewicz was born in Poland. She moved to United Kingdom when she was only nineteen and just finished high school. She had aspired to be a writer upon completion of the Harry Potter series but also enjoyed reading books like ‘Gone with the Wind’, ’Animal Farm’ and ‘The doll’. She graduated from Swansea University with a bachelor degree in American Studies. While studying in the UK she made a decision to start writing fiction in English. The “Whispers of the Sprite” is her first debut novel and she is currently working on other projects. Joanna lives in Cowbridge, a small town in South Wales near Cardiff with her boyfriend Bruce. She enjoys cycling around Welsh countryside some of which has become the settings in her first series.
What a great book, with excellent characters. The main female character Catherine, is full of piss & vinegar. She doesn't conform for anyone, loves fighting and killing Dragon shifters, is a klutz, who is quite funny. She dresses in men's clothes, to the dismay of her sister. Is tall, lean with red curly hair and very beautiful (when not covered in blood, mud and whatever else she gets on her). One never knows what's going to come flying out of her mouth. One day fairly soon she'll be queen, but she'd rather pass that onto her younger sister Lucy, because Catherine doesn't want to be bothered, with being queen. Her sister likes to wear dresses, do her hair and is just all around more girly and proper, she thinks her sister would be a better queen.
The sisters are very close, along with their ailling father. They lost their mother some years back, from a sickness. There father King Harold tells Catherine that she's just like her mother. When Catherine becomes Queen she'll be queen of the Southern Kingdom. One of the places that doesn't let the dragon shifters rule them or tell them what to do. Many other realms have bowed down to these dragon shifters.
Something extremely alarming happens, so Catherine has to go too their allies for help. Theses allies end up sending their three sons to help, but what the guy's want in return for their help. Is for Catherine to choose one of them too be her husband and king by the time the quest is over. Catherine's father wants her to pick one of the, sons to be her husband and king, it'll make a great alliance. Well let me tell you, these guy's are Hot, very forward but they've never met a woman like Catherine before, she is no push over, oh no she's definitely no shrinking violate. It's quite funny, I certainly did my share of laughing and giggling.
On this quest, they meet an array of different people. Stay places Catherine never thought she would. Made a really good friend. Have mishap, after mishap, along with Catherine learning some new language.
The book is set up well, I love the dialogue between everyone. Catherine is truly clumsy, mouthy, brave, intelligence and funny.
The three brothers sent to help her, with this problem are Eric, Jameson and Tobias. I've never seen such outgoing, hands-on men as Eric and Jameson. Tobias is much more reserved and quite.
Yes, this book is a great one, fast paced, funny, the story line demands you read it all at once. Believe me you're going to want to read it in one sitting, it's just so engrossing, light hearted and these characters are so well rounded, with many sides to them, you see the characters change by the end of the book. They grow up quite a bit, are not so self-centered. Everything is just perfect, the story just flows with ease. It's easy to understand, and read. There's swearing and sexual situations. I personally didn't find the sexual parts, to be over the top or overly descriptive.
There is so much I left out of this review, of course I don't want to give away the story. I love reviewing the books I read, I think the hardest part is trying not to give to much of the story away.
I loved this book. I think you will too. I'm not sure if there's going to be another book, but I'm almost positive there will be. There's still so much to cover and there are still questions, that need answers. When you read this, don't be surprised if everyone looks at you funny when you start laughing. Just enjoy it, it's fun, great premises, great characters and moves along quickly.
I received this ARC from the Author, this is my honest opinion about the book.
I have a few major problems with this book. Nearly all of them revolve around how it markets itself as a “reverse harem” with “comedy”.
1. The reverse harem part of the title is false. She has three men to choose from and she chooses one. End of. No group happy ever after, and after she makes her choice one of the leftovers immediately switches to being interested in her sister and the other is left hanging having said “this isn’t over”.
2. Her above-mentioned choice has little to no personality besides saying “mine” and getting rapey. And NOT in a sexy way. There’s never any reasoning behind this choice. At the very end she decides she loves him over the rest, and it almost felt like the authors could have chosen any of the three brothers and the plot wouldn’t have changed.
3. Speaking of rapey - of the three choices Jameson gets in her pants after drugging her, but he’s magnanimously forgiven almost instantly. Eric just ignores the rules of basic consent (see above caveman). Tobias, the only gentleman of the group, never makes any advances at all and then heals her when she gets injured but is otherwise summarily ignored in favour of his two rapey brothers.
4. I found vague humour in this book, but it wasn’t spectacular enough to consider it a mentionable selling point. I would say it hinges most on the heroines creative threats of violence and otherwise it is a straightforward heroine loses sister, goes to get her back plot.
Other than these problems, I have no problem with the writing or the non-romance plot (aside from how simple it is but I wasn’t expecting Shakespeare for 99p). It could just have been one prince who had a non rapey personality and more to their relationship than some dubious consent and end of book insta-love the entire thing would have been much more readable. I think I honestly fell into the trap of paying too much attention to the cover here. Won’t be making that mistake again!
I’ve read other Joanna Mazurkiewiz work, and I have to say that this disapponted me. The blurb mentions comedy and a ‘foul-mouthed’ heroine. At 18% in, I’ve discovered some vague humour and no swearing. The characters lack depth and credibility, and the story is basic at best. Sorry to say this was a DNF for me.
Advertised as a reverse harem (it's not, she makes a final choice between the three princes), this story fell short on most levels for me. From Gervais, the head of security who breaks out in tears when he finds out Princess Lucy was kidnapped, to would-be-rapist Eric who doesn't believe no means no (doesn't matter if a woman is "obviously" attracted to you-- attraction/lust isn't permission and doesn't mean she should be nagged until she gives in to you). All the princes acted childish and argumentative with each other (picture three year olds in the backseat of a long car ride), which was exhausting after awhile. If our intrepid princess wasn't losing her sword or a fight, she was being rude and snarky to those around her. I finished the story because I paid for the ebook, but it is hard to identify anything I liked about the plot or the characters. There were some typos, but nothing too bad. I like this author, so I'll read other things from her, but this was a disappointment.
Absolutely hilarious from the beginning to the end. I always enjoy book that can make me laugh. Catherine was such an awesome character. So many parts of her was so relatable, that you could see her being your friend. This book is very well written, unbelievably witty, creative and full of adventure. I thoroughly enjoyed this reason and look forward to so much more of these authors have to offer.
Princess Catherine is in denial; she can’t face the fact that her father, King Harold, is dying. She’d do ANYTHING to stop that from happening. She doesn’t WANT to become Queen; her sister Lucy would be a MUCH better choice. Catherine just wants to be left alone so she can hunt the dragon shifter Drakins. But Fate has other plans for Catherine. While out in the woods, Princess Lucy is kidnapped by Drakins, and Catherine is unable to save her. Returning to the castle, Catherine tells her father King Harold what’s happened. The king suggests that Catherine go to the neighboring kingdom of Dhampirs and request aid from the royal family. Upon arrival at the neighboring kingdom, Catherine is introduced to the three princes: Eric, Jameson and Tobias. Eric, the eldest, is aggressive and arrogant, and rather eager to get intimate with Catherine. Jameson is subtler in his pursuit, and Tobias… well, Tobias is quiet and behaves as a gentleman. The princes agree to assist Catherine in her efforts to save her sister, but on one condition: she must choose one of them as Consort once Lucy is rescued. Catherine is angry and wants to reject this condition out of hand, but knows she needs assistance to save her sister. She reluctantly agrees to their conditions, and the next day they start their rescue mission. Catherine spends the trip refusing handsy advances from Eric, and has an “dream episode” with Jameson that’s….well…. Hot!!!!
I devoured this book; Catherine is everything a heroine should be: brave, brash, headstrong, and not afraid to stand up and say “NO ONE OWNS ME! I MAKE MY OWN DECISIONS!” She puts ALL the princes in their places, and makes it plain that SHE is in charge. Lots of twists and turns, unexpected passions erupting and an unexpected ending as well. Some sexual scenarios and profanity; you have been warned!
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the banter and the instant chemistry between the characters. Catherine is my favorite kind of heroine. She's strong and independent. She loves just as fiercely as she fights for what she believes in. Overall a fun filled adventure and I definitely intend to read the next one.
***WARNING THIS BOOK IS FOR AGES 18+*** Once Upon a Quest is absolutely an amazing read. I couldn't put this book down once I started. Catherine is an amazing independent heroine who is very stubborn. Eric is a persistent dhampir after his love. Tobias is a sweet and caring dhampir with magic. Jameson (James) is well simply a jerk. Also other characters. I loved the style of writing, it sucks you in. There is some sexual context, definitely recommended for adults. The way it's written makes you feel like you are Catherine. I'm really looking forward to seeing what else is to come.
Catherine may be the eldest child but she does not want to be a queen. A true tomboy, all she wants to do is slay dragons. She doesn’t want to rule or marry. Out one day with her sister, who she swears she will give the crowd, they are attacked by dragons. As she fights one dragon, the other kidnaps her sister! Catherine must ally with 3 brothers from a neighboring kingdom on a quest to rescue her sister. But the Princes only agree to help her if she promises to choose one to marry after her sister is rescued. What is her true destiny? Can they save her sister? Will she find a way to break her promise? What will she do? Hand on for a tremendous ride through the kingdoms!
*Spoiler Alert* Unconventional Princess Catherine (FMC) takes matters into her own hands when her sister Lucy is kidnapped and then ransomed. Looking for support from The Dhampirs of the Western Kingdom. Who are neighbours to the Kingdom that have kidnapped her sister but their help comes at a price. She has to pick one of the 3 princes - Eric, Jameson & Tobias to marry in exchange for their help. That kicks off a jaunt across country to get Catherine's sister back. Bringing plenty of laughs and plenty of sexual scenarios. All of which make for a really great read. I loved it
Wow. This chick talks like a sailor and is full of snark. Shes as rough as they come. She wants to fight and slay dragons not attend balls. She definitely doesnt want to marry a prince. This book was funny and entertaining. I couldnt put it down. The story was so well written. I definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I devoured this book in one evening. It was fun and entertaining. Caroline has such unladylike behaviors for a future queen it's hilarious, she swear, wears trousers, speaks her mind.... I found myself giggling a lot while reading this book. Will definitely read the next book in this series. You should give it a try.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am volontarily leaving a review.
Loved the story line. Catherine was well written. As eldest she is to inherit the throne, but she would rather not take it. Her sister Lucy getting taken changes things. Now the king has requested she make a deal with three princes for their help in rescuing her sister. With the looming request for marriage in exchange for help, can she succeed? Highly recommend. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving He a review.
ONE REMARKABLE TREAT!!! Ah snap! This dynamic duo brings all the heat with this mind blowing wonder that blasts this baby wide open. Hurdling the trials and tribulations with all the drama, intrigue and a little suspense pulls this little gem together delightfully. One thrilling storyline and gripping plot with all the twists and turns you're not sure which way is up. A barrage of surprising events and activities propel those conflicting emotions to life smoothly. The characters and their personalities are authentic, intriguing and realistic. Solid individuals who balance out and play off one another brilliantly. The scenes are so graphically detailed to give you a full understanding and realism that flows smoothly from each scenario without a hitch. Remarkable job guys, thanks for sharing this incredible jewel.
This is a steamy and hilarious read. This has a very interesting plot that keep me turning the pages. This is a really great read and start to a series. There is great adventure and action with plenty of twists and turns. I really loved the personalities of the characters and how uniwue they were from each other.
I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased, honest review.
Great book, story line and characters well written, would recommend to those who like paranormal romance, highly reccommend, looking forward to the next in series
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved the characters and the storyline. Both are well written and keeps your interest. I’m looking forward to reading the next book. I would recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I'm new to this author, but liked the look of the book, so thought I'd give it a try. I really enjoyed it. It was well written and engaging, drawing you in with great storyline, and fantastic humour that had me giggling It had fantastic characters, loved Caroline and the banter between her, Eric, Jameson and Tobias. Will definitely read other books in the series.
This was not how I expect reverse harem to look like. And while it’s possible that this book is setting the stage for that later in the series, the ending doesn’t really suggest that. When the heroine commits to one of the heroes in the end and doesn’t really do anything with either of the other heroes during the book, for me that doesn’t really qualify as being RH. I think I may have sprained a muscle in my brain while reading, I rolled my eyes so hard a couple of times, Catherine and the Dhampir princes frustrated me so badly. I felt especially squicky about the elements of dubious consent – or no consent at all – that seems to be part of Catherine’s interactions with two of the three princes. There were moments that made me laugh. It was kind of cheap slapstick humor, but I still laughed. On a side note, why must a female character be either capable or feminine? Why is it impossible for us to allow her to be both?
Catherine is next in line to become Queen During an outing in the forest, her sister Lucy is kidnapped by the Drakin Clan—cruel dragon shifters !!!!!. Kathleen has no choice but to plead with the three princes that are wickedly handsome dhampir brothers Tobias James and Eric I love this very it was intriguing fascinating hilarious and sexy steaming kept me on my toes get my pulse pounding definitely loved reading every single jaw dropping hilarious word from the very beginning to the toe curling end
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed this story. Catherine is the epitome of a "Hot Mess" with a quirky sense of humor and deep desire to not be queen of her realm when her father passes. But her whole existence is called into question when her beloved sister, Lucy, is kidnapped by a dragon shifter from another realm. Now Catherine must turn to the dhampire princes to make an alliance and band with them to rescue her sister. Now, I don't do spoilers, but I have to address the comments denouncing this as a RH. For one, they should've read the blurb more carefully. For two, you don't ding a well-written and very fun to read book over a silly marketing word that you may not agree with. I happened to have loved this book and cannot wait to get my hands on the next in the series, with or without multiple men trying to nap Catherine for their own. The world is beautifully created and a wonderful escape from the norm.
This was a nice little story, definitely for young adults as it is about Catherine a Young Warrior destined to become Queen, although she doesn't really want it but unfortunate circumstances occur when her sister (Lucy) is taken by a Dragon shifter and Catherine must do whatever she can to save her, even visiting another Kingdom to ask for assistance. Although the other kingdom is of the Dhampire and the Three Princes have their own terms for their help in that Catherine must choose one brother to become her future Mate and King.
So as the four of them travel to the Dragon Kingdom to rescue her sister, Catherine has to deal with territorial boys who fight at a moment's notice, judgemental villagers, A cryptic Witch and a whole horde of Ghastly creatures. But what else can a Warrior Princess do but Fight on.... This book wasn't really for me but was an interesting read.
I was very disappointed about this being labeled as a reverse harem. I found the spicy scene a little boring and not much chemistry between the love interests Personally, I wasnt a fan. I couldnt figure out why it took me so long to read and then I realized I didn't enjoy Catherine. I liked Eric and Tobias but I thought Jameson was kind of a b*tch. I really enjoyed Bertha. Shes one of the reason I kept pushing through. I really enjoyed the premise of the book but found the execution lacking. It seemed very rushed with little to no plot twists or suspenseful moments. It was all killing some dragon's or complaining about the boys. The dialouge was very repetitive but what really ruined the book for me was that Catherine went through all of that to rescue her sister and her sister seemed more appalled by Catherine's attire than she was about her being saved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Our heroine decidedly does not want to be the ruler, but sometimes things don't work out as planned.
This is an action fantasy story with a bit of a romance as sort of a sideline. The story is very well written and fun to read, with lots of action, a well thought out world and some fascinating characters. The characters are well developed with depth and individual goals that don't always work together. But the star of the show is our heroine, which is only appropriate. She is feisty, tough, and smart and more than a little bit sarcastic, all of which suites me just fine. Overall, a wonderful read.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
The heroine, Catherine, is in denial about becoming queen, she'd rather slay dragons and hang with the men, you can keep you pretty dresses an tea cups thank you very much! I liked that Catherine was happy to be in the thick of the trouble, roll up her sleeves and swear like a soldier. But unfortunately reality is too close for comfort for Catherine, and that crown is dangling ever closer due to her fathers ill health. Her sisters abduction sets her on a quest, ironically she'll have to go to a ball, wear a dress, and be charming - a tall order! She has to choose one of her three suitors, but this is not a 'why choose' book, and this first book is not reverse harem, perhaps that will happen in further books. I enjoyed this book and look forward to seeing what happens next.
OMG I laughed and even shed a tear! Loved Eric, Jameson and Tobias...truly men of honor...they fought hard for their Princess who was something else. Catherine was a true warrior, she could fight with the best of them and come out the winner each and every time. She didn't want to be Queen at all she wanted to be a warrior and protect those she loved. And trust me she was a tough cookie yet soft towards those she loved. What a journey she had! Really great characters in this story and a wonderful storyline. Hopefully there will be more of these characters.
I love a funny dangerous female MC. But this one just didn't do it for me. She seemed so immature and honestly annoying. Calling people names all the time shoving her status around a lot. Idk and definitely did not see any signs of reverse harem. I think for me it missed it's mark with what was supposed to be funny?? I think. She came off more of a big headed immature child. It was still written, missed a couple words here and there. I know we are supposed to feel something for the characters but jeeze won't be reading number 2. Will though read other books from this author.