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The Elves of Lessa #3
The Prince's Bargain
All Myth ever wanted was to graduate and work for the trade department. Instead she’s chosen to serve as the personal translator for Crown Prince Arvel.Myth is well versed in trade, economics, and the languages needed to discuss them. Royal families and politics? Not so much.But Prince Arvel needs an elvish translator, and Myth—with her knack for languages and love of books—is the best option.Crown Prince Arvel requires her help because he’s holding an investigation against his uncle. He’s locked in a political battle that he has to win, or the government will fall.But as the two work together through subterfuge, dazzling balls, and assassination attempts, Myth and Arvel grow closer than any employee and monarch should.The real danger begins, however, when Arvel’s uncle discovers the charming prince has a Myth.Can a book-smart translator and a sly crown prince save the kingdom? Or will their relationship ruin everything they’re fighting for?THE PRINCE’S BARGAIN is a clean romance set in an epic fantasy world filled with elves and magic. If you love sweet romances, humorous characters, and court intrigue you’ll love the Elves of Lessa series. Download a sample or buy it today!
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2020
474 people are currently reading
770 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Shea
119 books4,774 followersMy pen name is K. M. Shea, but my readers—I prefer to call them Champions—call me Kitty.
I love to write funny, clean stories with strong characters. Books like that are among my favorite to read so naturally I love writing stories like that as well. My philosophy is that life is tough, so books should be something that makes you relax and laugh!
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VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
https://www.amazon.com/K-M-Shea/e/B00...
VISIT MY WEBSITE
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I love to write funny, clean stories with strong characters. Books like that are among my favorite to read so naturally I love writing stories like that as well. My philosophy is that life is tough, so books should be something that makes you relax and laugh!
VISIT MY FACEBOOK GROUP
https://www.facebook.com/groups/27090...
VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
https://www.amazon.com/K-M-Shea/e/B00...
VISIT MY WEBSITE
https://kmshea.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 205 reviews
January 1, 2025
K.M. Shea is my FAVORITE author, and I ADORE her Elves of Lessa series. While book 2 is still my favorite, this book was a worthy successor. Arvel has hidden depths that we didn't get to see in the previous books because he hides so much beneath his genial mask (honestly, everything thinks Benjimir is the sneaky one, but Arvel just smiles while he does it so people think its more okay, lol).
Myth is a great leading elf lady for him. She's smart and witty and, while not a fighter, she can hold her own. I laughed so hard over her fangirling over Gwendafyn!
Now, I think I'm going to go re-read this whole series for the umpteenth time! I can't wait for book 4!
Myth is a great leading elf lady for him. She's smart and witty and, while not a fighter, she can hold her own. I laughed so hard over her fangirling over Gwendafyn!
Now, I think I'm going to go re-read this whole series for the umpteenth time! I can't wait for book 4!
July 5, 2025
July 2025 Reread: Oh my gosh, this is now my favorite book in the series; how could I forget how ADORABLE and AWESOME these two are?! 😍😍😍 Arvel and Myth have my heart and the amount of inward squealing, nervously turning pages, and grinning I did while reading this was insane despite knowing what was going to happen.
Bumping this up to a full five stars for sure!
****
December 2022 Review: ***Actual Rating 4.5 Stars***
Hands down this is my second favorite book in this series! It was so cute and involved two characters who adore being in the library—I mean, come on, what could possibly be better?!
Arvel and Myth are adorable, wonderful characters with strengths and weaknesses that compliment and bolster each other so so well and I love them together so much! Myth is amazing and coolheaded, and I nearly (inwardly, because I didn’t want my family questioning my sanity) died laughing over her reactions to the “Prince of Seduction” because yes girl that would be me 100% in that situation! And Arvel is such a kindhearted yet strong character who put up with so much verbal abuse, and I was so proud of him when he overcame that in such big ways. Not to mention he’s strong even though he doesn’t use weapons a lot and when he does he fights with only daggers which is so cool!
And oh my goodness I wanted to strangle a certain queen SO BADLY! I mean, how DARE she act that way and treat Arvel with such contempt! I didn’t like her from book one, but she REALLY became annoying in this one and I just wanted to slap her silly! I felt so bad for the king in all this too as I really grew to like him over the course of this series. And the tension in this book was unreal; I was on the edge of my seat nervous of how things were going to turn out because just my goodness I was a wreak, lol!
I’m so sad this series is over, but I’m also glad I picked it up on a whim this year! K. M. Shea is DEFINITELY one of my new favorite authors and I can’t wait to read more from her!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: verbal abuse and manipulation from family to a character
Language: hell
Violence: fighting with weapons and hand to hand (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed); a man is burned and stabbed in the hand (not detailed)
Sexual: kissing (not detailed)
Drug/Alcohol: alcohol is served and drunk at parties
Other: elves and magic; arson; verbal abuse and manipulation from family to a character
Bumping this up to a full five stars for sure!
****
December 2022 Review: ***Actual Rating 4.5 Stars***
Hands down this is my second favorite book in this series! It was so cute and involved two characters who adore being in the library—I mean, come on, what could possibly be better?!
Arvel and Myth are adorable, wonderful characters with strengths and weaknesses that compliment and bolster each other so so well and I love them together so much! Myth is amazing and coolheaded, and I nearly (inwardly, because I didn’t want my family questioning my sanity) died laughing over her reactions to the “Prince of Seduction” because yes girl that would be me 100% in that situation! And Arvel is such a kindhearted yet strong character who put up with so much verbal abuse, and I was so proud of him when he overcame that in such big ways. Not to mention he’s strong even though he doesn’t use weapons a lot and when he does he fights with only daggers which is so cool!
And oh my goodness I wanted to strangle a certain queen SO BADLY! I mean, how DARE she act that way and treat Arvel with such contempt! I didn’t like her from book one, but she REALLY became annoying in this one and I just wanted to slap her silly! I felt so bad for the king in all this too as I really grew to like him over the course of this series. And the tension in this book was unreal; I was on the edge of my seat nervous of how things were going to turn out because just my goodness I was a wreak, lol!
I’m so sad this series is over, but I’m also glad I picked it up on a whim this year! K. M. Shea is DEFINITELY one of my new favorite authors and I can’t wait to read more from her!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: verbal abuse and manipulation from family to a character
Language: hell
Violence: fighting with weapons and hand to hand (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed); a man is burned and stabbed in the hand (not detailed)
Sexual: kissing (not detailed)
Drug/Alcohol: alcohol is served and drunk at parties
Other: elves and magic; arson; verbal abuse and manipulation from family to a character
July 24, 2020
Ach! I love these two so much!
Positives: The characters, pacing, romance, friendship, plots, family, setting, theme...everything??? Arvel and Myth were just AMAZING protagonists and lived up so well to Ben and Fyn and Tari and Arion! Literally, these two might be my favorite couple because of their more practical yet nonetheless sweet and rather highly amusing romance....and I also love so much how the villains get their depth without even needing to appear much. And the side characters as well...like Petyrr 😭 and Firea 🔥🔥. Also, I really love the law case plotline and the equal amounts of action and bookish stuff we got...beautifully written and interwoven and all that to give better purpose and growth to the characters and their relationships.
Negatives: Honestly, maybe one villain wasn't given as much backstory but he was a nasty piece of greed and money anyway. I found a typo of farther/further and...maybe I kind of wish we'd seen more of Myth's dad but considering who he was, it's obvious we wouldn't see him much...though I want to know his reactions to her adventures now.
Opinion: AHH! So fun and hilarious! I love Arvel's blatant courtship and how Shea could just make me feel all the emotions of smoldering and hilarity and awkwardness and angst... Maybe it's my bias for libraries but this book is now solidly cemented as one of my favorites of Kitty's. Plot and alllll the kinds of relationships explored? The Trio of Daftness and more to see with the already married couples and the side characters?? Yesss.
I have more to say, but I've reached peak incoherence. Honestly and finally...I love seeing the societal changes in the background that were established/proposed from the previous two books. Worldbuilding points!
Content: A bit of mild violence. The romance stays rather clean and very appropriate. Oh...and Arvel. Watch out for him.... 🤣
Positives: The characters, pacing, romance, friendship, plots, family, setting, theme...everything??? Arvel and Myth were just AMAZING protagonists and lived up so well to Ben and Fyn and Tari and Arion! Literally, these two might be my favorite couple because of their more practical yet nonetheless sweet and rather highly amusing romance....and I also love so much how the villains get their depth without even needing to appear much. And the side characters as well...like Petyrr 😭 and Firea 🔥🔥. Also, I really love the law case plotline and the equal amounts of action and bookish stuff we got...beautifully written and interwoven and all that to give better purpose and growth to the characters and their relationships.
Negatives: Honestly, maybe one villain wasn't given as much backstory but he was a nasty piece of greed and money anyway. I found a typo of farther/further and...maybe I kind of wish we'd seen more of Myth's dad but considering who he was, it's obvious we wouldn't see him much...though I want to know his reactions to her adventures now.
Opinion: AHH! So fun and hilarious! I love Arvel's blatant courtship and how Shea could just make me feel all the emotions of smoldering and hilarity and awkwardness and angst... Maybe it's my bias for libraries but this book is now solidly cemented as one of my favorites of Kitty's. Plot and alllll the kinds of relationships explored? The Trio of Daftness and more to see with the already married couples and the side characters?? Yesss.
I have more to say, but I've reached peak incoherence. Honestly and finally...I love seeing the societal changes in the background that were established/proposed from the previous two books. Worldbuilding points!
Content: A bit of mild violence. The romance stays rather clean and very appropriate. Oh...and Arvel. Watch out for him.... 🤣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2020
Absolutely loved this third book in the series! This is such a witty, light-hearted fantasy romance. I've loved the Elves of Lessa since the first book came out. Myth and Arvel have only added to my enjoyment of the series and its world. ❤️
March 17, 2023
(Spoiler in last paragraph)
Okay, this was my FAVORITE. I'm so glad I read the others (which were enjoyable but personally not likely candidates for "potential re-read," as I suspect this one might be) to get to this one. These nerds have all of my love. This book made me laugh out loud so many times, and I empathized so much with the leads. I don't even really care about some questions I still have about the worldbuilding in various aspects (some of which is "I feel like this book sort of changed some things about languages and how Lesser Elves behave," but in a way that honestly felt more logical so I preferred it even if it almost felt ret-con-ish) or some odd repeated phrases (so much lip mashing, and no, not related to kisses) or other minor complaints, because I had so much fun. I don't usually prefer smooth male leads, but Arvel was fantastic--maybe in part because he's only the ~Prince of Seduction~ 🤣 with Myth. (He also at one point literally makes a conscious choice to NOT be overbearing and therefore I love him forever. 😆)
This book also has the dubious honor of making me cry tears and shattering my heart. It's fine, I've recovered; but that was cruel. 💔
(Spoilers for what made me cry
Light spoilers of what is it NOT, first:
.
.
Nobody is dead.
.
Okay, actual spoilers now, since the app persists in not honoring the spoiler HTML: )
Look, I STILL haven't recovered from Alexandria. As both a bookworm and history nerd, I say this is abuse! Burning the library (and precious historical artifacts!) is like--like--like killing the dog! No! 😆😅😭 It's a good thing the damage was contained and there was magic involved, but still. I did not lie. I cried right along with Myth and I'm not ashamed to admit it.
Okay, this was my FAVORITE. I'm so glad I read the others (which were enjoyable but personally not likely candidates for "potential re-read," as I suspect this one might be) to get to this one. These nerds have all of my love. This book made me laugh out loud so many times, and I empathized so much with the leads. I don't even really care about some questions I still have about the worldbuilding in various aspects (some of which is "I feel like this book sort of changed some things about languages and how Lesser Elves behave," but in a way that honestly felt more logical so I preferred it even if it almost felt ret-con-ish) or some odd repeated phrases (so much lip mashing, and no, not related to kisses) or other minor complaints, because I had so much fun. I don't usually prefer smooth male leads, but Arvel was fantastic--maybe in part because he's only the ~Prince of Seduction~ 🤣 with Myth. (He also at one point literally makes a conscious choice to NOT be overbearing and therefore I love him forever. 😆)
This book also has the dubious honor of making me cry tears and shattering my heart. It's fine, I've recovered; but that was cruel. 💔
(Spoilers for what made me cry
Light spoilers of what is it NOT, first:
.
.
Nobody is dead.
.
Okay, actual spoilers now, since the app persists in not honoring the spoiler HTML: )
Look, I STILL haven't recovered from Alexandria. As both a bookworm and history nerd, I say this is abuse! Burning the library (and precious historical artifacts!) is like--like--like killing the dog! No! 😆😅😭 It's a good thing the damage was contained and there was magic involved, but still. I did not lie. I cried right along with Myth and I'm not ashamed to admit it.
August 18, 2020
This was a good continuation of this series. Idk what it is for me, but its a cute one. Clean romance though, so if that's something you don't like I would steer clear.
I feel like K.M. Shea's writing has def developed a lot. Her stories feel more alive to me now, than when I first started this series. Not that the first book is bad, this is just SO good.
The story feels very different from the earlier stories. Which makes sense when you look at Myth and Arvel together. What their strength and weaknesses are. I loved how this story developed including the big story line with the queen, and how the "chess" game developed and how people saw Myth. It was very well done all in all.
I feel like K.M. Shea's writing has def developed a lot. Her stories feel more alive to me now, than when I first started this series. Not that the first book is bad, this is just SO good.
The story feels very different from the earlier stories. Which makes sense when you look at Myth and Arvel together. What their strength and weaknesses are. I loved how this story developed including the big story line with the queen, and how the "chess" game developed and how people saw Myth. It was very well done all in all.
August 2, 2022
5 stars // read August 2022
Elves + translators + practical protagonists + K.M. Shea’s trademark humor and clean romances = one of my favorite reads this year. Highly recommend.
Elves + translators + practical protagonists + K.M. Shea’s trademark humor and clean romances = one of my favorite reads this year. Highly recommend.
August 6, 2020
What a Fun book:} Shea's books are always a fun read and something I can share with my girls. Red Rope of Fate is my absolute favorite of her books and this is the third in the series. You can read these on their own but why would you do that when you can have fun reading them all:} Myth and Arvel's story is a sweet one. I love how Shea brings two cultures together and builds a whole romance around it. Elves and humans have differences and she uses them so well to create a dynamic that I love! Such a fun book with some danger and sweet kisses:}
January 6, 2021
I’ve been thoroughly enjoying K.M. Shea’s Elves of Lessa books and The Prince’s Bargain was a fun installment in this fantasy series.
I absolutely adored both Prince Arvel and Myth. I loved discovering more about Arvel and watching him grow into his role as the new crown prince, while Myth was a great heroine, smart and witty, and utterly perfect for Arvel. I loved watching them together—their friendship, the way they complemented one another and helped one another grow, and their budding feelings. Their romance was both utterly sweet and often times quite amusing. And goodness, I loved the emphasis on libraries, always one of my favorite settings.
The plot was interesting and kept me engaged throughout, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing reoccurring characters from past stories. The story was also filled with a lot of world-building that really fleshes out this story’s world, making it feel like a real place. While occasionally the political side of it was too much for me, simply because I found it difficult to follow like I do in both the real world and every story I read, overall it was all interesting and really made the world and plot come to life.
Watching Arvel and Myth’s relationship unfold was truly the highlight of the story. I’m thoroughly excited for the next elf and human romance in this delightful fantasy world.
I absolutely adored both Prince Arvel and Myth. I loved discovering more about Arvel and watching him grow into his role as the new crown prince, while Myth was a great heroine, smart and witty, and utterly perfect for Arvel. I loved watching them together—their friendship, the way they complemented one another and helped one another grow, and their budding feelings. Their romance was both utterly sweet and often times quite amusing. And goodness, I loved the emphasis on libraries, always one of my favorite settings.
The plot was interesting and kept me engaged throughout, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing reoccurring characters from past stories. The story was also filled with a lot of world-building that really fleshes out this story’s world, making it feel like a real place. While occasionally the political side of it was too much for me, simply because I found it difficult to follow like I do in both the real world and every story I read, overall it was all interesting and really made the world and plot come to life.
Watching Arvel and Myth’s relationship unfold was truly the highlight of the story. I’m thoroughly excited for the next elf and human romance in this delightful fantasy world.
July 25, 2020
This book is amazing. The story is very different from the previous two books as our main protagonists aren't really the fighting types. Instead, they prefer to solve their problems using their intellect. Like it's predecessors, the book is hilarious. The banter between the couple is cute. And it was great to see most of the characters again. Myth was exactly what I expected her to be: an avid book lover who is sweet and kind but with bones of steel who won't let anyone walk over her. Arvel though was another story. He really caught me off guard. I thought Benjimir (book 2's hero) was forward with his flirting but Arvel is a whole new level altogether (nothing creepy though). Myth's reactions to him made me laugh out loud. All in all, if you are looking for a book with a good cast of characters, a cute romance (squeaky clean), humour, action and even a spying mission, you should give this one a try.
This book is pretty much stand-alone but I would recommend reading the whole series as well as all of KM Shea's books. You won't regret it.
This book is pretty much stand-alone but I would recommend reading the whole series as well as all of KM Shea's books. You won't regret it.
April 13, 2025
I’m not ready for this series to be over!!
Shea’s signature witty banter, clever world building, and sweet romance were utter perfection. Arvel & Myth are beyond adorable, and their forced proximity lended to so many laughs. I probably laughed most during this book of the entire series!
Cameo appearances of the previous couples & characters were icing on the cake, and the way each book ends with the elven & human kings (who are besties) debriefing on their matchmaking success with the couple was absolutely heartwarming. ☺️
Content: kissing only
Shea’s signature witty banter, clever world building, and sweet romance were utter perfection. Arvel & Myth are beyond adorable, and their forced proximity lended to so many laughs. I probably laughed most during this book of the entire series!
Cameo appearances of the previous couples & characters were icing on the cake, and the way each book ends with the elven & human kings (who are besties) debriefing on their matchmaking success with the couple was absolutely heartwarming. ☺️
Content: kissing only
August 22, 2020
Sweet, mild trauma issues
This is a clean romance and a light, enjoyable read. The heroine is distinctly different than the others in the series and her story is unique. It’s nice to see a defined storyline for each couple, unique to their personalities and cultural subsetting, rather than reading a familiar romance plot with new names. Rape culture is not glorified in the romance, which is nice.
However, the heroine has some issues with mentally freezing when approached romantically and being unable to voice her wishes while feeling overwhelmed, resulting in some mild boundary violations. Freezing in paralysis while having her boundaries violated is an indication that she’s dealing with some kind of trauma, even if it isn’t the fault of the hero. Having her boundaries violated while she has no control of her voice, because she lacks coping skills to deal with a romantic situation, is likely to result in more trauma, no matter how mild the transgression. Post traumatic stress syndrome typically develops as a result of a loss of control, or a perceived loss of control, in an overwhelming situation. Situational paralysis in response to feeling overwhelmed is a panic response. Many people have a this response when they experience trauma and blame themselves for it, and this plot device may be triggering.
When the hero puts her in a situation he knows she is uncomfortable with, in a public place, watches her body freeze up as he flirts, violates the boundaries expressed by her emotions and body language and then tells her he knows she loves it (months after she expressed love for him), it makes me really uncomfortable. It means her freezing episode is going on in the ongoing romance relationship and it hasn’t stopped, she has received no help for whatever has caused her to lack confidence and coping skills in a mature romantic relationship, and he’s violating her verbally and physically expressed boundaries in a public place, without her prior permission, but with the full knowledge of multiple guards who have stepped just out of their sight. Knowing that the many people who are supposed to protect you are giving you limited privacy because they know full well that your very powerful partner wants to flirt in a public facility in a way that makes you literally freeze up in a panic while he ignores and overrides your pointed verbal request not to do and tells you that you love it because you are physically attracted to him at times when you do feel safe is gas-lighting, emotional abuse, sexual harassment, and frightening. I have deducted one star because this issue is a problem in an otherwise well written book.
This is a clean romance and a light, enjoyable read. The heroine is distinctly different than the others in the series and her story is unique. It’s nice to see a defined storyline for each couple, unique to their personalities and cultural subsetting, rather than reading a familiar romance plot with new names. Rape culture is not glorified in the romance, which is nice.
However, the heroine has some issues with mentally freezing when approached romantically and being unable to voice her wishes while feeling overwhelmed, resulting in some mild boundary violations. Freezing in paralysis while having her boundaries violated is an indication that she’s dealing with some kind of trauma, even if it isn’t the fault of the hero. Having her boundaries violated while she has no control of her voice, because she lacks coping skills to deal with a romantic situation, is likely to result in more trauma, no matter how mild the transgression. Post traumatic stress syndrome typically develops as a result of a loss of control, or a perceived loss of control, in an overwhelming situation. Situational paralysis in response to feeling overwhelmed is a panic response. Many people have a this response when they experience trauma and blame themselves for it, and this plot device may be triggering.
When the hero puts her in a situation he knows she is uncomfortable with, in a public place, watches her body freeze up as he flirts, violates the boundaries expressed by her emotions and body language and then tells her he knows she loves it (months after she expressed love for him), it makes me really uncomfortable. It means her freezing episode is going on in the ongoing romance relationship and it hasn’t stopped, she has received no help for whatever has caused her to lack confidence and coping skills in a mature romantic relationship, and he’s violating her verbally and physically expressed boundaries in a public place, without her prior permission, but with the full knowledge of multiple guards who have stepped just out of their sight. Knowing that the many people who are supposed to protect you are giving you limited privacy because they know full well that your very powerful partner wants to flirt in a public facility in a way that makes you literally freeze up in a panic while he ignores and overrides your pointed verbal request not to do and tells you that you love it because you are physically attracted to him at times when you do feel safe is gas-lighting, emotional abuse, sexual harassment, and frightening. I have deducted one star because this issue is a problem in an otherwise well written book.
February 7, 2024
How does the Crown Prince with the harridan mother find someone who will love him for himself, not his title? He's given up. He will just focus on being the best Crown Prince he can be, and getting his spiteful mother under control.
Apprentice Translator Mythlan just wants to become a Trade Translator - and she works hard learning languages and writing documents. When the Crown Prince needs a new Social Translator, her life is turned upside down when she is assigned to work for him. He is over trade, so she is a better fit than she expected. However, working with him puts her in the line of fire for his mother and her relatives. And nobody is quite sure what to do about that.
Apprentice Translator Mythlan just wants to become a Trade Translator - and she works hard learning languages and writing documents. When the Crown Prince needs a new Social Translator, her life is turned upside down when she is assigned to work for him. He is over trade, so she is a better fit than she expected. However, working with him puts her in the line of fire for his mother and her relatives. And nobody is quite sure what to do about that.
September 6, 2021
I guess I’m getting soft in my years. When I first started reviewing books in my teens, I hated the thought of coming across as childish. I’ve kinda always pushed against the norm. I was mature, gosh darn it. I wasn’t like the other girls I knew, those who were giggling over boys, Love stories? Puh-leese. I was sophisticated.
I’ve come off that high horse. I’m not a critic solving the mysteries of art in language.
I’ve got enough “real life” in my life, I don’t want fictional “real life” added to my life.
It is time too admit, I like a good love story that sweeps you along into the world. (I still don’t giggle over guys, I mean, unless they love books as much as I do…. But THAT is totally different 😆)
I want to read a book that makes me happy. And the Elves of Lessa make me very happy. It has action, adventure, comedy, cute love story, and best of all, a resolution at the end.
I love how each book in the series have different plots, different personalities from each other. It’s not the same story with different names.
But I also love how each book grows into the next, the issues solved in book three is only possible because of problems solved in book one and two. You can read them stand alone, but why would you want too, when you could read them all?
So many books, it is this big, emotional, journey to their dreams. And you mentally, emotionally fight along with the characters. Watching, cheering your character to reach their goal, their dream. And then they get there, they found their long lost father/treasure and have reached their paradise. They walk into the sunset and THE END. And I just feel cheated. I’m like “I went through your emotional trauma, told you not to trust Captain Suspicious, helped you heal after Captain suspicious sabotaged you, went through all of that, and I DON’T get to enjoy the victory? No witty banter between friends, no day in the life that WE dreamed of TOGETHER?! 🤨 (I might or might not get too invested in books)
Elves of Lessa gives me an emotional reward. It fills me with happy feels. We keep all our favorite characters, and they interact with our new main characters in the next book. Sigh 😌 ahhhhh, 😊
The plots are fun and interesting, the culture is immersive. The lore of the world, the flavor of it is the spice to texture the story.
I don’t know what else to say. I could jabber on, but I’d just be reiterating what I’ve said already. All that’s left is that you should give this series a go.
I’ve come off that high horse. I’m not a critic solving the mysteries of art in language.
I’ve got enough “real life” in my life, I don’t want fictional “real life” added to my life.
It is time too admit, I like a good love story that sweeps you along into the world. (I still don’t giggle over guys, I mean, unless they love books as much as I do…. But THAT is totally different 😆)
I want to read a book that makes me happy. And the Elves of Lessa make me very happy. It has action, adventure, comedy, cute love story, and best of all, a resolution at the end.
I love how each book in the series have different plots, different personalities from each other. It’s not the same story with different names.
But I also love how each book grows into the next, the issues solved in book three is only possible because of problems solved in book one and two. You can read them stand alone, but why would you want too, when you could read them all?
So many books, it is this big, emotional, journey to their dreams. And you mentally, emotionally fight along with the characters. Watching, cheering your character to reach their goal, their dream. And then they get there, they found their long lost father/treasure and have reached their paradise. They walk into the sunset and THE END. And I just feel cheated. I’m like “I went through your emotional trauma, told you not to trust Captain Suspicious, helped you heal after Captain suspicious sabotaged you, went through all of that, and I DON’T get to enjoy the victory? No witty banter between friends, no day in the life that WE dreamed of TOGETHER?! 🤨 (I might or might not get too invested in books)
Elves of Lessa gives me an emotional reward. It fills me with happy feels. We keep all our favorite characters, and they interact with our new main characters in the next book. Sigh 😌 ahhhhh, 😊
The plots are fun and interesting, the culture is immersive. The lore of the world, the flavor of it is the spice to texture the story.
I don’t know what else to say. I could jabber on, but I’d just be reiterating what I’ve said already. All that’s left is that you should give this series a go.
July 29, 2020
Ten Reasons to Read This Book
1. The world building is amazing (elves and humans living side by side trying to learn one another's languages and culture)
2. The main characters first make eyes at each other in a library
3. Political intrigue
4. Revisiting characters from the first books: Tari and Arrion, Benjamir and Fyn
(Yes, you should read these books in order.)
5. Blaise, the wizard apprentice who apparently blows things up a lot. She definitely needs her own book! I want to see more of her shenanigans.
6. The craftiness of the elven and human kings
7. The sweet romance between Arvel and Myth
8. How Arvel can smolder and become the "Prince of Seduction" making Myth blush
9. The progression of knowledge and magic that make me want to see what this super team of characters could do with a large scale conflict
10. If you haven't read K.M. Shea's books before, you are really missing out! You'll find humor, great world building, cute romances, and oh so loveable sidekicks. So, hop to it!
1. The world building is amazing (elves and humans living side by side trying to learn one another's languages and culture)
2. The main characters first make eyes at each other in a library
3. Political intrigue
4. Revisiting characters from the first books: Tari and Arrion, Benjamir and Fyn
(Yes, you should read these books in order.)
5. Blaise, the wizard apprentice who apparently blows things up a lot. She definitely needs her own book! I want to see more of her shenanigans.
6. The craftiness of the elven and human kings
7. The sweet romance between Arvel and Myth
8. How Arvel can smolder and become the "Prince of Seduction" making Myth blush
9. The progression of knowledge and magic that make me want to see what this super team of characters could do with a large scale conflict
10. If you haven't read K.M. Shea's books before, you are really missing out! You'll find humor, great world building, cute romances, and oh so loveable sidekicks. So, hop to it!
August 6, 2022
Starts out slow, but picks up the pace. Nice little story. It does, however, have a few odd wordings and needs another round of editing for grammar.
*spoiler* I would have liked to know what Mythlan's father thought of her abilities and spouse in the end *end spoilers.
For my clean readers: violence, attempted murder, attempted kidnapping, verbal abuse from a parent to a child, kissing.
*spoiler* I would have liked to know what Mythlan's father thought of her abilities and spouse in the end *end spoilers.
For my clean readers: violence, attempted murder, attempted kidnapping, verbal abuse from a parent to a child, kissing.
May 12, 2025
Excellent
The Prince’s Bargain is an excellent conclusion to the series. This story has it all - a sweet romance, interesting characters, and plenty of adventure. I highly recommend this series.
The Prince’s Bargain is an excellent conclusion to the series. This story has it all - a sweet romance, interesting characters, and plenty of adventure. I highly recommend this series.
to-read-maybe-maybe-not
August 1, 20201st August 2020 - DNF 40%. Cannot get into the tale and the main characters are not drawing me in. May try to re-read at a later date.
Acquired via KU.
Acquired via KU.
April 17, 2023
Favorite Lessa Book Yet
I loved this book even more than 1 and 2! The FMC being a translator and both her and the MMC being bookish meant that this book was full of highly relatable moments. I loved Myth and Arvel a LOT. They're sweet and funny, and watching them work together to unravel the case they were working on was just lovely.
I loved this book even more than 1 and 2! The FMC being a translator and both her and the MMC being bookish meant that this book was full of highly relatable moments. I loved Myth and Arvel a LOT. They're sweet and funny, and watching them work together to unravel the case they were working on was just lovely.
December 24, 2023
A good conclusion to this series
This was a great conclusion to this trilogy of books about the Elves of Lessa. I have really and truly enjoyed the series as a whole (definitely make sure you read them in order) and each book has been so full of witty bantering, lovable characters, unique storylines, and of course a sweet and swoony romance. The only problem I have now is I don’t want this series to end- I want more books in this world about these characters!
This was a great conclusion to this trilogy of books about the Elves of Lessa. I have really and truly enjoyed the series as a whole (definitely make sure you read them in order) and each book has been so full of witty bantering, lovable characters, unique storylines, and of course a sweet and swoony romance. The only problem I have now is I don’t want this series to end- I want more books in this world about these characters!
June 22, 2022
It appears that Arwen is no different than his brothers - he also prefers a bride who is not a conventionally pretty social butterfly. I like his 'courtship' of Myth - that poor girl had no idea of what to do with The Prince of Seduction. This was a clean, sweet, funny and intriguing read - both as a description of the writing and as a comment of the antics in the story. I recommend this to anyone who likes Melanie Cellier's Four Kingdoms fairytales.
September 29, 2020
Km Shea writes enjoyable and cute stories that are perfect for escaping reality for an hour or two. While I love most of her books, this one I had issues with. Not because it's poorly written or a bad story, it was cute. What turned it from a like to just okay was basically one phrase used several times that didn't fit in the story for me. "Prince of Seduction" was used in several scenes between Myth and Arvel and for some reason that particular phrase just didn't sound right in this book. To me it gave it a much more juvenile feel to the story and just felt wrong. I enjoyed seeing characters from the previous 2 books but while the story was cute, I just couldn't get past the irritation that particular wording had on me. This is a cute story and was a nice light read for me, just didn't make it to 3 stars for me, more like 2.5.
Content:
Sexual: kissing only
Violence: mild
Language: none
Content:
Sexual: kissing only
Violence: mild
Language: none
September 8, 2022
I liked it, but I very much prefer (and recommend) the previous book in this series: Royal Magic. In this book, "The Prince´s Bargain" (which bargain, I wonder?) the main characters, Myth and Arvel, were both adorable, so much so, that there was no conflict, no intrigue, no suspense. Not even much romance at all. From the beginning it was a given HEA ending, which of course we wanted, but... a little more of effort, growing, clash of customs, or something?? The plot was also very open-and-closed, no mystery, no danger (a couple of ambushes but nothing serious), all political parties, except the villains, were on the same page (pun intended) and the ending was totally expected. So, for light reading, OK, but I would suggest you read the other books by this author, because they are much, much more rewarding.
June 17, 2022
Kitty has done it yet again! I love anything she writes and this book does not disappoint. I loved how the other characters from the rest of the series make appearances throughout the book. And I think the trio of daftness scene was the best yet! You get to know more about King Petyrr's true personality and more about the political side of Calnor. The 2 main characters are adorable together. I also loved both of them because they are book lovers! Cute romance, dastardly villains, and Kitty's usual comedy make this one of the best Elves of Lessa books yet!
Read
July 27, 2020Cute and clean with a little angst thrown in. No OP drama whatsoever and the hero was a genuinely nice guy. I'd like to think they were each other one and onlys. :)
The world building was a little light in this series, but it's been a fun way to pass the time. High fantasy it is not, but adorable it has been.
The world building was a little light in this series, but it's been a fun way to pass the time. High fantasy it is not, but adorable it has been.
July 26, 2020
Another exciting (and hilarious) jaunt into Lessa! Featuring many cameos by some favorite past characters.
February 13, 2025
Wow!!!!
Another great read!! A fantastic addition to the eldest lessa I hope we get many more of these books they are amazing! Don't thing but all of KM Shea's books!!!
Another great read!! A fantastic addition to the eldest lessa I hope we get many more of these books they are amazing! Don't thing but all of KM Shea's books!!!
January 3, 2022
Is this rating really suprising? I think not. 😏😊😁 P.S. - Myth is now my spirit animal 🤣
March 19, 2023
And now I am sad…nope, sad is not a strong enough word…I am devastated. I have now finished the last book in the Elves of Lessa series and now what am I ever going to do when I need to read a funny, cozy, romantic fantasy?! All I have to say is “Fantasy Gods please give Shea the inspiration to write more books in this fabulous series!”
Crown Prince Arvel doesn’t mind the long hours preparing to be the next Calnorian King. Nor does he mind the many hours he spends studying and reading and being studious, on the contrary, he loves the library and the comfort of books and knowledge. The thing he does mind is the ever constant retinue of Ladies that his mother insists on bombarding him with in hopes he will finally choose one to marry. The problem is, all the women of his mother’s choosing , he knows will never love him, only want his crown, and will answer to his mother’s (evil and horrendous) will instead of what is best for Calnor. The one bright spot in his day is the small moments when he can escape to the 2nd floor of the library where he relishes his time with reading and intellect, and being able to glance upon the beautiful elf apprentice trade translator that also studies there. But when Arvel suddenly becomes in need of a new social translator, himself, Arvel takes the opportunity to Bargain with his father and procure the translator he has had his eye on. Now Mythlan (Myth), elf and apprentice trade translator, must learn and become the social translator Arvel needs, all the while fearing for her life, thwarting evil and dastardly lordly plans, lying to her heart and avoiding the “Prince of Seduction” that seems to leave her witless and spellbound.
This was definitely my favorite story of the 3. Arvel was completely endearing (I’ve definitely got a soft spot for the studious and intellectual hero with integrity, brains, secret knife skills, and an absolute heart of gold) and Myth was the perfect compliment. She was sweet but funny and completely clueless when it came to romance and their interactions where hilariously but sweetly fabulous. But the romance wasn’t the only amazing part about this story. There are so many amazing aspects. One of my favorites was that we got to hang out with a plethora of characters from the other two books and see how their lives had changed and what they were up to. My favorite being the 3 Military Captains, Wilford, Thadd, and Gryggs who where even more hilarious and enjoyable in this book than the other two (is that even possible?! Why yes it is!). And you should definitely read this book just to experience the awesomeness that is them. Soooooo…I can’t say there was any part of this story I didn’t whole heartedly enjoy. It was utter magic!
So if you love a cozy, sweet romance with fabulous characters that include two of the most endearing characters that I have ever read, lots of humor, enough political intrigue and danger to keep you on the edge of your seat and guessing but not so much as to cause anxiety, and the most perfectly written HEA then you just HAVE TO READ The Prince’s Bargain.
Crown Prince Arvel doesn’t mind the long hours preparing to be the next Calnorian King. Nor does he mind the many hours he spends studying and reading and being studious, on the contrary, he loves the library and the comfort of books and knowledge. The thing he does mind is the ever constant retinue of Ladies that his mother insists on bombarding him with in hopes he will finally choose one to marry. The problem is, all the women of his mother’s choosing , he knows will never love him, only want his crown, and will answer to his mother’s (evil and horrendous) will instead of what is best for Calnor. The one bright spot in his day is the small moments when he can escape to the 2nd floor of the library where he relishes his time with reading and intellect, and being able to glance upon the beautiful elf apprentice trade translator that also studies there. But when Arvel suddenly becomes in need of a new social translator, himself, Arvel takes the opportunity to Bargain with his father and procure the translator he has had his eye on. Now Mythlan (Myth), elf and apprentice trade translator, must learn and become the social translator Arvel needs, all the while fearing for her life, thwarting evil and dastardly lordly plans, lying to her heart and avoiding the “Prince of Seduction” that seems to leave her witless and spellbound.
This was definitely my favorite story of the 3. Arvel was completely endearing (I’ve definitely got a soft spot for the studious and intellectual hero with integrity, brains, secret knife skills, and an absolute heart of gold) and Myth was the perfect compliment. She was sweet but funny and completely clueless when it came to romance and their interactions where hilariously but sweetly fabulous. But the romance wasn’t the only amazing part about this story. There are so many amazing aspects. One of my favorites was that we got to hang out with a plethora of characters from the other two books and see how their lives had changed and what they were up to. My favorite being the 3 Military Captains, Wilford, Thadd, and Gryggs who where even more hilarious and enjoyable in this book than the other two (is that even possible?! Why yes it is!). And you should definitely read this book just to experience the awesomeness that is them. Soooooo…I can’t say there was any part of this story I didn’t whole heartedly enjoy. It was utter magic!
So if you love a cozy, sweet romance with fabulous characters that include two of the most endearing characters that I have ever read, lots of humor, enough political intrigue and danger to keep you on the edge of your seat and guessing but not so much as to cause anxiety, and the most perfectly written HEA then you just HAVE TO READ The Prince’s Bargain.
August 9, 2022
I have very mixed feelings about this book, which is unusual for me with a Shea novel. On the one hand, I did like Myth's character a lot. She's smart and driven, but has a bad habit of underselling herself because she's taken to heart her father's indifference towards her. The plot was very interesting, more of a political intrigue than Shea usually does where elf translator Myth and Crown Prince Arvel are trying to stop a family of powerful nobles from continuing their exploitation of Calnor's trade with the elves of Lessa.
However. Arvel, while mostly nice, has a side that gave me a few warning vibes. He keeps having episodes where he dials up his charm to a 10, trying to flirt with Myth--she nicknames this mode the Prince of Seduction. It makes her extremely uncomfortable, and even after she tells him she doesn't like it, he keeps doing it. Ignoring your love interest's express requests to stop doing something that makes them uncomfortable, however cute or funny you find their discomfort, is not romantic. It's Bad Partner Behavior. She falls in love with him anyway, but it almost feels like in spite of how uncomfortable he makes her rather than because of it, so it doesn't really serve to bring them together. I think Shea was trying to be funny by having her usually composed character squirm, but it came off to me as Arvel being kind of callous and brushing aside her pleas for him to stop doing something she didn't like.
Not one of Kitty's better efforts.
However. Arvel, while mostly nice, has a side that gave me a few warning vibes. He keeps having episodes where he dials up his charm to a 10, trying to flirt with Myth--she nicknames this mode the Prince of Seduction. It makes her extremely uncomfortable, and even after she tells him she doesn't like it, he keeps doing it. Ignoring your love interest's express requests to stop doing something that makes them uncomfortable, however cute or funny you find their discomfort, is not romantic. It's Bad Partner Behavior. She falls in love with him anyway, but it almost feels like in spite of how uncomfortable he makes her rather than because of it, so it doesn't really serve to bring them together. I think Shea was trying to be funny by having her usually composed character squirm, but it came off to me as Arvel being kind of callous and brushing aside her pleas for him to stop doing something she didn't like.
Not one of Kitty's better efforts.
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