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Fairyland Romances #1
Rival Princes
There are three golden rules for new recruits at Fairyland Theme Park:
1. No breaking character, even if you’re dying of heat exhaustion
2. Always give guests the most magical time
3. No falling in love.
Nate’s only been at work one day, and he’s already broken all three.
Fast-tracked into a Prince role, Nate’s at odds with Dash, the handsome not-so-charming prince who is supposed to be training him. Nate doesn’t know how he ended up on Dash’s bad side, but the broody prince sure is hot when he gets mad.
Dash has worked long and hard to play Prince Justice at Fairyland. Now, instead of focusing on his own performance, he is forced to train newbie Nate to be the perfect prince. Nate’s annoying ease with the guests coupled with his charm and good looks could dethrone Dash from his number one spot … so why does he secretly want to kiss him?
Fairyland heats up as sparks fly between the two rival princes. Will they get their fairytale romance before they’re kicked out of Fairyland for good?
Find out in this standalone MM contemporary romance by Jaxon Knight, set in an amusement park where fairytales can come true.
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Rival Princes is a sweet Rivals to Lovers romance with queer characters, set in a fairy tale themed amusement park. Guaranteed HEA. Some cursing, no cheating.
A gay mm contemporary sweet romance.
1. No breaking character, even if you’re dying of heat exhaustion
2. Always give guests the most magical time
3. No falling in love.
Nate’s only been at work one day, and he’s already broken all three.
Fast-tracked into a Prince role, Nate’s at odds with Dash, the handsome not-so-charming prince who is supposed to be training him. Nate doesn’t know how he ended up on Dash’s bad side, but the broody prince sure is hot when he gets mad.
Dash has worked long and hard to play Prince Justice at Fairyland. Now, instead of focusing on his own performance, he is forced to train newbie Nate to be the perfect prince. Nate’s annoying ease with the guests coupled with his charm and good looks could dethrone Dash from his number one spot … so why does he secretly want to kiss him?
Fairyland heats up as sparks fly between the two rival princes. Will they get their fairytale romance before they’re kicked out of Fairyland for good?
Find out in this standalone MM contemporary romance by Jaxon Knight, set in an amusement park where fairytales can come true.
---
Rival Princes is a sweet Rivals to Lovers romance with queer characters, set in a fairy tale themed amusement park. Guaranteed HEA. Some cursing, no cheating.
A gay mm contemporary sweet romance.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2019
40 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
Jaxon Knight
18 books81 followersA pansexual, trans non-binary author born and raised in New Zealand, Jaxon Knight didn't mean to be a romance writer, but...
A love for themeparks, a desire to see happy ever afters for queer characters and a sprinkling of fairy dust has resulted in the Fairyland romance series. Set at a theme park based on fairy tales about virtues, they wanted to tell the stories of the people who work there falling in love.
Jaxon loves books, a day at a themepark riding roller coasters and eating candy floss and their wife and cat.
A love for themeparks, a desire to see happy ever afters for queer characters and a sprinkling of fairy dust has resulted in the Fairyland romance series. Set at a theme park based on fairy tales about virtues, they wanted to tell the stories of the people who work there falling in love.
Jaxon loves books, a day at a themepark riding roller coasters and eating candy floss and their wife and cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 29, 2019
A MM romance novel with such an electrifying first kiss that it made me question my sexuality.
August 25, 2019
This was such a cute and fun romance read. Once I saw this book I knew I wanted to read it, it sounded so fun and the setting at fairytale theme park where both characters work seemed like such an unique setting. I was in the mood for a light and fun read and this book fit that perfectly.
Rival Princes follows the story of Nate and Dash. Dash has been working in Fairyland for a while now, he climbed up from the position at a summer camp to finally the role of prince. He loves his job and puts a lot of effort in it. His careful routine gets broken when Nate gets accepted for the role of another prince. And that without any of the hard work Dash put into it. There is some rivalry between these two (mostly on the side of Dash) and a bunch of feelings as well.
While I normally am not a fan of enemies to lovers type of stories, I thought the set-up in this book was well done and realistic. I could understood Dash' frustration after seeing someone basically roll into the role of prince, while he had to work so long and hard to get it. And Nate is a natural at the role as well. I do think he took things a bit too far with the rivalry at times and could be quite rude in some scenes, but eventually he realizes that himself as well and there are some complicated emotions underneath his behavior. And I did like how he realizes what really underneath it all and straightens himself out.
While Dash had some moments where I didn't like his behavior, Nate was a character who was really easy to like all the time. He is so honest and real. He rolls into the role of prince, but never let it gets to his head and he also puts a lot of effort into it to get it right. And when he does something that everyone praises him for he feels awkward as he just did what came natural to him. He's so real and in the moment, which was great to see. I did really feel for him when his attempts to smooth things over with Dash don't go as smoothly. But in the end they figure things out, which was great. And I liked how Nate also lets Dash know his behavior hurt him.
The romance doesn't really develop until late in the book, so there isn't as much time to see the two characters together after they admit their feelings. I would've liked a few more scenes at the end or an epilogue of sorts. I did sign-up for the authors newsletter where there's an extra chapter or so for these guys, so I hope that will helps wrap things up for me. The romance itself was well done and I like how the chemistry is clear from their first meeting. It does seem to be based on attraction mostly at first, but as the story progresses it becomes clear there are some deeper feelings involved too. I like how they both struggle a bit with how they're feeling and how they both admit to to themselves and eventually the other. They both have a great friend to help them along as well.
There are some background parts and personal issues for both characters that get touched upon, but this story doesn't dive into those as deeply. Which seemed to fit the story. Those issues are mentioned, but don't take up too much space, but on the other hand I would've liked to see that get explored more. How Dash deals with letting someone close and How Nate has some hang ups from a previous relationship. Nevertheless I did feel like I got a good feel for both characters and understood why they acted the way they did.
There is a group of fun side characters as well. There is Charlie, Nate's best friend, who also works in the park. Ari and Greer who play the princesses the guys work with. Greer is also Dash' best friend. Cody the security guy who gets along well with Nate. The two people who work in wardrobe. Lennon, who is an important member of the staff. They all have their own personality and have some scenes in which they are important.
The fairyland setting was really well done. It's clear the author has an idea of how thing go in parks like these and the descriptions of it all made me have a good image of what kind of works everyone did and also give an image of this fictional theme park. I thought it made for an interesting and unique setting for a book. And it just was fun to read about. It also lends itself well to some unique scenes while the guys are working. I liked seeing how Nate and Dash did in their roles as princes and there were some fun and interesting scenes with some of the guests as well.
To summarize: this was such a fun read. It's a sweet romance story between two guys who both work as princes in a fictional fairytale theme park. There is some rivalry and feelings between the two, which both get resolved before the end of the book. The end did feel a bit sudden and I would've loved to see a few more scenes of them in a relationship or an epilogue, but I did like how things got resolved. While Dash could be a bit rude at times, I could understand his behavior and why he felt a bit jealous of how fast and easy Nate rolled into the prince role. I liked when he finally figures things out for himself. Nate is easy to file with his real and open manner and how he keeps trying to smooth things over with Dash. There are some issues in both guys their past that get touched upon, but this book doesn't dive into depth in those issue. I liked the cast of side characters. The fairyland setting made for a fun and unique setting. The author made it all feel realistic and I liked how it added some fun scenes in the park with them being both employees there. All in all I had a lot of fun reading this one and I already bought book 2.
Rival Princes follows the story of Nate and Dash. Dash has been working in Fairyland for a while now, he climbed up from the position at a summer camp to finally the role of prince. He loves his job and puts a lot of effort in it. His careful routine gets broken when Nate gets accepted for the role of another prince. And that without any of the hard work Dash put into it. There is some rivalry between these two (mostly on the side of Dash) and a bunch of feelings as well.
While I normally am not a fan of enemies to lovers type of stories, I thought the set-up in this book was well done and realistic. I could understood Dash' frustration after seeing someone basically roll into the role of prince, while he had to work so long and hard to get it. And Nate is a natural at the role as well. I do think he took things a bit too far with the rivalry at times and could be quite rude in some scenes, but eventually he realizes that himself as well and there are some complicated emotions underneath his behavior. And I did like how he realizes what really underneath it all and straightens himself out.
While Dash had some moments where I didn't like his behavior, Nate was a character who was really easy to like all the time. He is so honest and real. He rolls into the role of prince, but never let it gets to his head and he also puts a lot of effort into it to get it right. And when he does something that everyone praises him for he feels awkward as he just did what came natural to him. He's so real and in the moment, which was great to see. I did really feel for him when his attempts to smooth things over with Dash don't go as smoothly. But in the end they figure things out, which was great. And I liked how Nate also lets Dash know his behavior hurt him.
The romance doesn't really develop until late in the book, so there isn't as much time to see the two characters together after they admit their feelings. I would've liked a few more scenes at the end or an epilogue of sorts. I did sign-up for the authors newsletter where there's an extra chapter or so for these guys, so I hope that will helps wrap things up for me. The romance itself was well done and I like how the chemistry is clear from their first meeting. It does seem to be based on attraction mostly at first, but as the story progresses it becomes clear there are some deeper feelings involved too. I like how they both struggle a bit with how they're feeling and how they both admit to to themselves and eventually the other. They both have a great friend to help them along as well.
There are some background parts and personal issues for both characters that get touched upon, but this story doesn't dive into those as deeply. Which seemed to fit the story. Those issues are mentioned, but don't take up too much space, but on the other hand I would've liked to see that get explored more. How Dash deals with letting someone close and How Nate has some hang ups from a previous relationship. Nevertheless I did feel like I got a good feel for both characters and understood why they acted the way they did.
There is a group of fun side characters as well. There is Charlie, Nate's best friend, who also works in the park. Ari and Greer who play the princesses the guys work with. Greer is also Dash' best friend. Cody the security guy who gets along well with Nate. The two people who work in wardrobe. Lennon, who is an important member of the staff. They all have their own personality and have some scenes in which they are important.
The fairyland setting was really well done. It's clear the author has an idea of how thing go in parks like these and the descriptions of it all made me have a good image of what kind of works everyone did and also give an image of this fictional theme park. I thought it made for an interesting and unique setting for a book. And it just was fun to read about. It also lends itself well to some unique scenes while the guys are working. I liked seeing how Nate and Dash did in their roles as princes and there were some fun and interesting scenes with some of the guests as well.
To summarize: this was such a fun read. It's a sweet romance story between two guys who both work as princes in a fictional fairytale theme park. There is some rivalry and feelings between the two, which both get resolved before the end of the book. The end did feel a bit sudden and I would've loved to see a few more scenes of them in a relationship or an epilogue, but I did like how things got resolved. While Dash could be a bit rude at times, I could understand his behavior and why he felt a bit jealous of how fast and easy Nate rolled into the prince role. I liked when he finally figures things out for himself. Nate is easy to file with his real and open manner and how he keeps trying to smooth things over with Dash. There are some issues in both guys their past that get touched upon, but this book doesn't dive into depth in those issue. I liked the cast of side characters. The fairyland setting made for a fun and unique setting. The author made it all feel realistic and I liked how it added some fun scenes in the park with them being both employees there. All in all I had a lot of fun reading this one and I already bought book 2.
December 13, 2019
This was an absolute delight. I'd love to find a story fandom with a theme park like Fairyland.
I had found the cover blurb a little weird, how could Fairyland princes be rivals? But in context it made perfect sense. The two guys' backgrounds was filled in enough to make them into real people and the secondary characters were great (I'm so going to read book two which is Cody's story)
I found Dash's behaviour a bit annoying, but that was the point. He does redeem himself at the end and I really wanted the story to go a bit further, to see how they coped with that smouldering new love thing when they had to be in character. The rest of the team's reaction would be fun too.
The mark of a good story is to leave the audience wanting more. Jaxon Knight nailed it. I'm definitely reading the rest of the series.
I had found the cover blurb a little weird, how could Fairyland princes be rivals? But in context it made perfect sense. The two guys' backgrounds was filled in enough to make them into real people and the secondary characters were great (I'm so going to read book two which is Cody's story)
I found Dash's behaviour a bit annoying, but that was the point. He does redeem himself at the end and I really wanted the story to go a bit further, to see how they coped with that smouldering new love thing when they had to be in character. The rest of the team's reaction would be fun too.
The mark of a good story is to leave the audience wanting more. Jaxon Knight nailed it. I'm definitely reading the rest of the series.
April 28, 2020
I liked this but didn’t love it - tough to rate. I really enjoyed the behind the scenes look at being a prince at a theme park. I loved thinking more about that particular job than I ever have before.
However the romance really left me wanting more. The characters are in their 20s but this really read more like a YA romance to me. I didn’t feel much of them falling for each other and there was absolutely no steam. A couple of kisses and that was it - very rated PG. I would have loved more of their romance and less drama around the new parade floats.
I also felt like the float storyline was sometimes inconsistent in terms of who knew what and when. Whether it’s just about the new dragon float or dragon float vs the other new float, Dash asked privately for feedback on Nate but then Nate also knowing about it. Did not love. I may still continue with the series because I did really like Cody.
However the romance really left me wanting more. The characters are in their 20s but this really read more like a YA romance to me. I didn’t feel much of them falling for each other and there was absolutely no steam. A couple of kisses and that was it - very rated PG. I would have loved more of their romance and less drama around the new parade floats.
I also felt like the float storyline was sometimes inconsistent in terms of who knew what and when. Whether it’s just about the new dragon float or dragon float vs the other new float, Dash asked privately for feedback on Nate but then Nate also knowing about it. Did not love. I may still continue with the series because I did really like Cody.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2020
The denial and misunderstandings keep up until the end, not like it was a long time considering the story takes place in two weeks, but it wasn't even that irritating because I wasn't feeling their motivations. I couldn't even picture them kissing, I really didn't feel this book.
I can't rate it very high because I was confused during most of it. I've actually never been to a theme park, I don't know if it was meant to be inspired on a real one or not but a map would have been useful (and I have no idea what a float is).
I also don't know how I'm supposed to see the characters, they kept changing in my mind because I found the descriptions too vague and I don't think they match the cover design.
It was a bit cruel to only tell him at the end of his evaluation, after everyone noticed the tension between them, but they eventually decided love is more important.
Would be nice to have the bonus chapter included in the actual book. I may still continue this series, though I'm not sure my opinion will improve.
I can't rate it very high because I was confused during most of it. I've actually never been to a theme park, I don't know if it was meant to be inspired on a real one or not but a map would have been useful (and I have no idea what a float is).
I also don't know how I'm supposed to see the characters, they kept changing in my mind because I found the descriptions too vague and I don't think they match the cover design.
It was a bit cruel to only tell him at the end of his evaluation, after everyone noticed the tension between them, but they eventually decided love is more important.
Would be nice to have the bonus chapter included in the actual book. I may still continue this series, though I'm not sure my opinion will improve.
June 27, 2019
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Rival Princes is everything I love in a cute RomCom book, enemies to lovers, cute moments, and misunderstandings. The cast of characters are all really wonderful and I'd love to read more about any one of them. But of course I had my favorites and I'm so happy to see that one of the ones I liked the most will be getting his own book in book 2!
The setting is also something I just adored as someone who spends a lot of time at Disneyland I loved the whole feel of Fairyland and how familiar it all felt, it honestly just made the book that much more fun to read.
When it comes to our Rival Princes I really liked the chemistry they had and they balanced each other out really well and I lov3ed reading every interaction they had. Their moments read very genuine and I just couldn't wait till they got everything sorted.
The Rival Princes is everything I love in a cute RomCom book, enemies to lovers, cute moments, and misunderstandings. The cast of characters are all really wonderful and I'd love to read more about any one of them. But of course I had my favorites and I'm so happy to see that one of the ones I liked the most will be getting his own book in book 2!
The setting is also something I just adored as someone who spends a lot of time at Disneyland I loved the whole feel of Fairyland and how familiar it all felt, it honestly just made the book that much more fun to read.
When it comes to our Rival Princes I really liked the chemistry they had and they balanced each other out really well and I lov3ed reading every interaction they had. Their moments read very genuine and I just couldn't wait till they got everything sorted.
July 10, 2019
I love love loved this book! From the setting to the characters to the plot, I though the whole thing was amazing. I love reading stuff about theme parks and the behind the scenes of the people who work there. Fairyland was built well and I almost thought of a mix of Disney and the Mario world. The characters were wonderful and there was a lot of diversity within them. The diversity was there naturally and not just for diversity's sake, either. I liked Cody, Lennon, and Greer. I wish we had seen more about Ari, especially since she was the one primarily working with Nate. Nate and Dash were great characters and I loved being so invested in what happened between them. I can't wait for more Fairyland books.
Read
June 29, 2019Very cute and sweet. Read it in one sitting. I enjoyed all the "Fairyland" *cough*Disneyland*cough* behind-the-scenes details and the fictional princess franchise of this universe.
The big conflict between Hero A and Hero B is "who will get the Cool New Float in the parade?!". It's ridiculous; I love it. And also now I wish said float existed so I could see it irl. I also want to read all the Prince Valour / Prince Justice fanfic lol.
A lot cleaner than I usually read, but still very enjoyable UST. I think fans of clean/sweet contemporary gay romance and YA gay romance will eat this up (though the characters aren't technically YA-age, it has a YA feel to it).
The big conflict between Hero A and Hero B is "who will get the Cool New Float in the parade?!". It's ridiculous; I love it. And also now I wish said float existed so I could see it irl. I also want to read all the Prince Valour / Prince Justice fanfic lol.
A lot cleaner than I usually read, but still very enjoyable UST. I think fans of clean/sweet contemporary gay romance and YA gay romance will eat this up (though the characters aren't technically YA-age, it has a YA feel to it).
June 29, 2019
Rival Princes by Jaxon Knight is a cute romance that takes place in Fairyland... the theme park where princes and princesses give guests a magical time. Dash comes off as a jerk sometimes to the outside observer but he actually is a good character and I love how we get to see his thought process and evolution of his feelings for Nate. Nate is a great character and I liked seeing his character shine. I thought this story was sweet, cute, funny and really made me want more Fairyland tales.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
July 1, 2019
This book is beautiful and such a great escape! If you are looking for a wonderful happy romance book this is one that is a must-read. Dash and Nate have magnificent chemistry and the backdrop of the wonderful thought out Fairyland makes you feel like you are in a fairytale yourself. Can't wait for the second book!
August 7, 2019
I loved this book! It was sweet in the best way- it makes you feel warm and fuzzy at the end. I loved the Dreamland setting, the characters are complex and ones that you care about, and you're cheering for them to get together. I would happily read a dozen stories set in this world, so I'm excited to read the sequel already. A really engrossing and lovely romance.
May 15, 2021
Cute and so fun to read! Dashiel's need to be perfect at everything was portraye in such a manner that I could feel his anxiety.
June 23, 2020
As a theme park fan, this was amusing. Loved the setting and all the nods to theme park life but the story was slow and I wish Dash and Nate had more time together.
March 27, 2021
**I am recc'ing this LGBTQ+ series [mainly M/M] for anyone who liked the premise of what R. S. Grey did for HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS but felt a little shafted in the telling.
--More than anything, though... Jaxon Knight is a new-to-me non-binary spectacular wonderful Author [and a damn interesting storyteller!!]...who is my ONE TO WATCH...forever and ever...
This book series sounded too adorkable to not begin reading, with the M/M couples promised this makes it become a priority to read.
This first book is about Nate and Dashiel ["Dash"] who are two rival Princes playing these fantasy royal characters inside this theme park, Fantasyland, based on a popular cartoon that seems to have been popular for generations.
Nate will start playing Prince Valor, whose ROLE has been missing from the park for nearly a year, while Dashiel already works there as Prince Justice.
They each have a "Princess" who supports them, who they have to be in love with while struggling with the sudden attraction they feel for one another.
What an absolute enjoyable read this was so it makes the rest of the series feel not just positive but equally as enjoyable. And the M/M sexuality is kept to a very medium-burn as there is simply heavy kisses that lead toward an eventual HEA.
Nate is quite the charmer so this displeases Dash to no end because he has worked hard and long hours from the bottom rung of employment... and here Nate has simply walked in the street from a friend's referral and immediately became Prince Valor.
The terrible thing is once their animosity sets in, they have to work side-by-side on a week day basis.
This gives me awesome Hate-to-Love vibes as Dash grows more and more determined to make Prince Justice a success rivaling Prince Valor's new-found success.
There is a small competition brewing for Fantasyland's main parade [they do a huge Christmas/Holiday parade for all their main characters], where Nate's Prince role will get a re-vamped new float [WITH A DRAGON!!] if his employment reviews come back with major positivity or this allotted money will be given to Dash's Prince Justice's float with huge improvements.
The heated up adversarial story was pretty decent on the slow-burn level and there were some highly entertaining moments as we got a view into the backstage happenings of this fictional Theme park.
What's lovely to envision is that this park has changed owners, so they have openly EOE initiative to the LGBTQ+ community so there are various walks of queer life working in the crew behind the scenes, not just Nate & Dash as gay men... but we were introduced to a non-binary Park manager and some possible Bi or Polyamorous folks...so, yeah!!
March 22, 2020
A really sweet romance with real heat between Dash and Nate even when it stays very tame. I loved the setting of Fairyland and look forward to exploring the world, and both the Princes are swoonworthy. A very welcome respite from reality, and would highly recommend you escape into the magical theme park and get swept off your feet.
June 26, 2019
3.5*
Nate got his dream job, Prince Valor in Fairyland. Every day filling guests lives with magic. Or so he hopes, he did just get hired. And after meeting his coworker and Prince Justice actor he knows nothing will go according to plan. Will he be able to get the man and keep the job, or will he lose it all in the process?
A gay, forbidden love romance set in a Disney World inspired park? Yes, please! I was so excited to read this. I thought the concept was fantastic. Sadly, at least for me, it did not live up to its potential. The book fell short because of how short it was. Everything was crammed into just under two hundred pages. The story spanned around a month. So, of course, there was insta love. But not just insta love, hardcore insta love. Like I would die for you the day after meeting you intense. I'm all for insta attraction, lust, or longing. Sometimes insta love is not that bad and takes place over a few weeks, but this was just too soon. Wow, I just said the word insta more in this paragraph than I have in my entire life. Moving on.
The main characters were the only part of this story that felt fully explored. I wanted more about the job. More about the theme park. More about the characters interactions with each other. And mainly I wanted more about the side characters. I believe this series will be one of those connected but not connected types. Like the next book will follow different characters.
This book is New Adult. I am getting more into NA, but I believe there is quite a bit of controversy on what is considered NA. Is it the age of the characters? Is it the level of steaminess? Well, I definitely have read steamer YA, but the characters are in their mid-twenties.
This was good, I enjoyed it but was just a little let down by it. I think if it was a little longer, more fleshed out it could have easily been a 5* book. But the pace and shortness of the book dropped the rating for me. I would be down to try more by this author.
Thank you, Jaxon for the ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
Nate got his dream job, Prince Valor in Fairyland. Every day filling guests lives with magic. Or so he hopes, he did just get hired. And after meeting his coworker and Prince Justice actor he knows nothing will go according to plan. Will he be able to get the man and keep the job, or will he lose it all in the process?
A gay, forbidden love romance set in a Disney World inspired park? Yes, please! I was so excited to read this. I thought the concept was fantastic. Sadly, at least for me, it did not live up to its potential. The book fell short because of how short it was. Everything was crammed into just under two hundred pages. The story spanned around a month. So, of course, there was insta love. But not just insta love, hardcore insta love. Like I would die for you the day after meeting you intense. I'm all for insta attraction, lust, or longing. Sometimes insta love is not that bad and takes place over a few weeks, but this was just too soon. Wow, I just said the word insta more in this paragraph than I have in my entire life. Moving on.
The main characters were the only part of this story that felt fully explored. I wanted more about the job. More about the theme park. More about the characters interactions with each other. And mainly I wanted more about the side characters. I believe this series will be one of those connected but not connected types. Like the next book will follow different characters.
This book is New Adult. I am getting more into NA, but I believe there is quite a bit of controversy on what is considered NA. Is it the age of the characters? Is it the level of steaminess? Well, I definitely have read steamer YA, but the characters are in their mid-twenties.
This was good, I enjoyed it but was just a little let down by it. I think if it was a little longer, more fleshed out it could have easily been a 5* book. But the pace and shortness of the book dropped the rating for me. I would be down to try more by this author.
Thank you, Jaxon for the ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
January 21, 2021
Dream jobs
This was a bit of a different romance in that most of the book isn't one at all. In fact, the majority of the book is about the rivalry between these two theme park princes. There was a lot to parse through, both in their jobs and in their personal lives, so it took the time to do that and how it affected their rivalry/relationship. But this also meant that things were going right up until the very end and the resolution of this is the end of the book.
This follows as Nate becomes a costume actor for a theme park as one of the famous princes from their movies. It is a role that usually takes years of working up through the ranks to get, but Mate receives it on his first interview. Dash has to work his way up and finds himself jealous of this new Prince and worried that he will be shown up and lose the job that he has worked so hard for. This causes tension between them immediately. Things get worse as the two just work closely together and their attraction becomes clear, but rules about the park and the stewing jealously about the job keeps coming in the way. When it becomes clear that Dash was right and there really is more interest in Nate and his character it becomes a question of what he will do; destroy the other man to get his own dream job, or work together for more? It was a tense situation with lots of emotion behind the decisions, and no cutthroat actions, just hard work and spite. It was a relationship of lots of hot/cold signals that takes some awareness of self and help from others for the two to work through. An intriguing start to this series and an unusual but interesting course for a rivalry romance.
This was a bit of a different romance in that most of the book isn't one at all. In fact, the majority of the book is about the rivalry between these two theme park princes. There was a lot to parse through, both in their jobs and in their personal lives, so it took the time to do that and how it affected their rivalry/relationship. But this also meant that things were going right up until the very end and the resolution of this is the end of the book.
This follows as Nate becomes a costume actor for a theme park as one of the famous princes from their movies. It is a role that usually takes years of working up through the ranks to get, but Mate receives it on his first interview. Dash has to work his way up and finds himself jealous of this new Prince and worried that he will be shown up and lose the job that he has worked so hard for. This causes tension between them immediately. Things get worse as the two just work closely together and their attraction becomes clear, but rules about the park and the stewing jealously about the job keeps coming in the way. When it becomes clear that Dash was right and there really is more interest in Nate and his character it becomes a question of what he will do; destroy the other man to get his own dream job, or work together for more? It was a tense situation with lots of emotion behind the decisions, and no cutthroat actions, just hard work and spite. It was a relationship of lots of hot/cold signals that takes some awareness of self and help from others for the two to work through. An intriguing start to this series and an unusual but interesting course for a rivalry romance.
July 5, 2019
3.5 stars rounded up
Like a certain "world of mouse" with an iconic castle, the world of fantasy in this story is a bit cutesy, a bit cheesy, and rife with behind-the-scenes drama. I enjoyed this story as much as I thought I would despite the moments where the characters' character obsession brought me out of the story. It was my hopes for the men as well as the supporting cast that kept me invested. Nate was the star for me as his natural "princely" qualities meshed with his endearing sweetness, tenacity, and honesty. Dash took a while for me to warm up to. His reasons for his behavior were understandable, but nowhere near acceptable. There was a whole lot he needed to do to earn redemption and it took a long time for him to get around to it, but by the end he was well on his way. We were left seeing the potential rather than something a bit more conclusive. As it stands, the ending seems a bit rushed, the resolution isn't completely satisfying, and it felt more like an HFN. I think I'll sign up for the newsletter so I can get their epilogue. If the story were a bit longer or more balanced in a way that would have given us a stronger ending, this story would have been almost fantastic.
Like a certain "world of mouse" with an iconic castle, the world of fantasy in this story is a bit cutesy, a bit cheesy, and rife with behind-the-scenes drama. I enjoyed this story as much as I thought I would despite the moments where the characters' character obsession brought me out of the story. It was my hopes for the men as well as the supporting cast that kept me invested. Nate was the star for me as his natural "princely" qualities meshed with his endearing sweetness, tenacity, and honesty. Dash took a while for me to warm up to. His reasons for his behavior were understandable, but nowhere near acceptable. There was a whole lot he needed to do to earn redemption and it took a long time for him to get around to it, but by the end he was well on his way. We were left seeing the potential rather than something a bit more conclusive. As it stands, the ending seems a bit rushed, the resolution isn't completely satisfying, and it felt more like an HFN. I think I'll sign up for the newsletter so I can get their epilogue. If the story were a bit longer or more balanced in a way that would have given us a stronger ending, this story would have been almost fantastic.
August 17, 2022
This story was cute and fun, but it fell a little flat for me. For one, the relationship seemed a bit forced and the characters didn't really have that much chemistry. Everything between them happened so fast. I don't mind a little insta-love here and there, but their whole relationship just didn't click for me. They simply didn't interact enough to make it seem real. For another, the same drama kept circling back around and it felt repetitive. I understand that the float was supposed to be the main conflict, but there was no real variety in how the characters dealt with it. It was basically the same scene and conversation popping up over and over with only minor tweaks and changes. A little subplot would've been nice. The story also felt a bit rough in places tp the point where I was pulled out of the story.
I did like the inclusive cast of characters. I also enjoyed watching the characters interact with each other, though I would have liked to see a little more development from the side characters. This book had good bones and made for a quick, enjoyable read.
Overall I did enjoy the story and I may possibly try another book by this author in the future.
I did like the inclusive cast of characters. I also enjoyed watching the characters interact with each other, though I would have liked to see a little more development from the side characters. This book had good bones and made for a quick, enjoyable read.
Overall I did enjoy the story and I may possibly try another book by this author in the future.
June 29, 2019
Nate is looking for a job. His best friend Charlie works at an amusement park, Fairyland. His referral gets him the job and he's ecstatic about it. He loves everything about the park. Things suddenly change because instead of the food service job he's trying for, he's hired as a Prince. Things just seem to go extremely well for him, everyone likes him. Dashiel, another Prince who's worked here longer, climbing the ladder, working his way up is asked to train Nate. Immediately he sees him as a threat to his carefully construed job and life. He doesn't understand how everything just seems to fall in Nate's lap, he just makes it look so easy. His job is very important to him, he has no time for a social life. Tempers flare and passion ignites between the two young men. Dashiel pushes those feelings aside because he's afraid of change. Eventually, he comes to realize that he's going to have to decide if a relationship with Nate is more important than the job and hope that Nate is willing to trust in him after he's caused him some heartache.
August 23, 2025
So this book is plain but cute: Feel good, non angsty, short, nonspicy.
It gets 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars because it’s a perfectly palatable, inoffensive read with a very middle-school plot. There are some pretty big plot holes that don’t really make sense, the author needed them to make their vision for the story work rather than a good editor forcing some rewrites to make the story approach believable. There is no emotional depth and the transition from “he’s cute” to “I’m in love” is utterly nonsensical. A couple typos but nothing egregious.
I’ll probably still borrow the next two to read because I loved Cody and Charlie and need their stories.
It gets 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars because it’s a perfectly palatable, inoffensive read with a very middle-school plot. There are some pretty big plot holes that don’t really make sense, the author needed them to make their vision for the story work rather than a good editor forcing some rewrites to make the story approach believable. There is no emotional depth and the transition from “he’s cute” to “I’m in love” is utterly nonsensical. A couple typos but nothing egregious.
I’ll probably still borrow the next two to read because I loved Cody and Charlie and need their stories.
July 2, 2019
Rival Princes
Rival Princes is right. The rivalry goes on for most of the book, a little too long for me; stopped being fun way before it got better ^^
Cute happy ending for the handsome, young princes though it worked for them; worked for me as well, and it went down for the best in the nick of time too...
It was fun. I wish I would've liked it better is all ^-*
I'll keep reading 📖
Rival Princes is right. The rivalry goes on for most of the book, a little too long for me; stopped being fun way before it got better ^^
Cute happy ending for the handsome, young princes though it worked for them; worked for me as well, and it went down for the best in the nick of time too...
It was fun. I wish I would've liked it better is all ^-*
I'll keep reading 📖
January 11, 2021
Bad grammar
The plot was new and different. I enjoyed the storyline but the bad grammar was frustrating. The editor and beta reader should have corrected misused words, double words and missing words. I would love to be your beta reader. Hint for the storyline... If the princes were the main characters, the would be working weekends, not off during the busiest days of the park.
The plot was new and different. I enjoyed the storyline but the bad grammar was frustrating. The editor and beta reader should have corrected misused words, double words and missing words. I would love to be your beta reader. Hint for the storyline... If the princes were the main characters, the would be working weekends, not off during the busiest days of the park.
July 5, 2022
This was very cute. I enjoyed the lore that the author created in creating an entire Disney-esque theme park based on some cartoon movies.
Nate was an excellent MC. I loved the guy.
Dashiel is kind of a dick whose only other real personality trait is "handsome".
I hated Dash for like 75% of the book and really wanted Nate to get with Cody the security guy.
I'm eager to read the second book because Cody is an MC.
Nate was an excellent MC. I loved the guy.
Dashiel is kind of a dick whose only other real personality trait is "handsome".
I hated Dash for like 75% of the book and really wanted Nate to get with Cody the security guy.
I'm eager to read the second book because Cody is an MC.
July 6, 2019
I received this book in exchange for my honest review. I really enjoyed this book. I am a huge sucker for enemies to lovers and this one was done really well. I loved that it was set in a theme park and the way the storyline progressed.
Some of Prince A's thoughts and ideas really irritated me but I completely loved Prince B.
Some of Prince A's thoughts and ideas really irritated me but I completely loved Prince B.
July 26, 2019
An adorable read! I loved reading about Nate and Dash's romance. Nate is likeable and charming, and I love the complexity of Dash and his internal journey.
I love the supportive cast of friends and co-workers, and Fairyland is a great setting. It was such a fun world to get lost in, I can't wait for the next one.
I love the supportive cast of friends and co-workers, and Fairyland is a great setting. It was such a fun world to get lost in, I can't wait for the next one.
July 27, 2019
It’s OK
The storyline is cute ... until it’s just not. I can accept the light competition between Justice and Valor but the conflict between Nate and Dash felt mostly contrived and synthetic. Minimal character development and scant back history leave the reader struggling to figure out the MCs. The story ends with a promise but no resolution.
The storyline is cute ... until it’s just not. I can accept the light competition between Justice and Valor but the conflict between Nate and Dash felt mostly contrived and synthetic. Minimal character development and scant back history leave the reader struggling to figure out the MCs. The story ends with a promise but no resolution.
October 15, 2020
Just the light-hearted read I needed
Not sure I've read a book based in a theme park before. I couldn't help drawing the obvious parallels, but I'm also curious to know if the Fairyland folks are real. The author wrote them with such clarity, I think I'll be shocked to find they aren't. The characters were real, flawed and easy to like. Looking forward to the next story.
Not sure I've read a book based in a theme park before. I couldn't help drawing the obvious parallels, but I'm also curious to know if the Fairyland folks are real. The author wrote them with such clarity, I think I'll be shocked to find they aren't. The characters were real, flawed and easy to like. Looking forward to the next story.
November 16, 2020
All the feels ❤️
It was a wonderful experience to read. The settings were magical and familiar. The main characters and side characters were well rounded. Loved the behind the scenes look of amusement park characters daily happenings.
The couple was realistic and still magically sweet.
Looking forward to the next books.
It was a wonderful experience to read. The settings were magical and familiar. The main characters and side characters were well rounded. Loved the behind the scenes look of amusement park characters daily happenings.
The couple was realistic and still magically sweet.
Looking forward to the next books.
July 2, 2019
What a fairy tale, enemy to lovers book. A must read from front to back. You won't want to put it down. Watching them was ahhhhhh it was good soooooo good. Really want to spoil it but I'm not going to.
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