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Desolation #3
The Stolen Princess
She's falling for a man she hates. He's betting on her trust.
Princess Mykaleen Adler would do anything to save her dying father. But, when she's kidnapped by a rival kingdom's commander, her devotion wavers. Developing feelings for her enemy could destroy her future and her kingdom. Unless her charming captor is the one person telling her the truth.
Drake Vestry's focus is on finding King Adler's deadly weapons. Unfortunately, the only way to the weapons is through the king's daughter, who happens to be the most distracting and entertaining assignment he's ever had. Gaining the princess's trust might mean losing his heart forever.
She's fighting for her kingdom. He's committed to his mission. Can they find their way together, or will broken trust be the most destructive weapon of all?
Perfect for fans of The Selection Series.This is the third book in the Desolation Series and should be read AFTER The Promised Prince.
ebook
Published April 26, 2021
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About the author
Kortney Keisel
21 books1,430 followersKortney graduated from the University of Utah with an English degree and spent a few years before motherhood teaching 7th and 8th graders how to write a book report, among other things. But after a reading slump, where no plots seemed to satisfy, Kortney pulled out her laptop and started writing the "perfect" love story...or at least she tried. Writing love stories is her job...just kidding. Her real job is taking care of her five awesome kids and spending time with her husband.
Kortney loves a good romance movie or book, warm chocolate chip cookies, and traveling the world.
Connect with Kortney at www.kortneykeisel.com
Kortney loves a good romance movie or book, warm chocolate chip cookies, and traveling the world.
Connect with Kortney at www.kortneykeisel.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
April 19, 2021
Phew what a book! I finished it Sunday night, and honestly had no words. The ending!!! 😳
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Kortney has a way of just sucking you into the post-Desolation world, where somethings are familiar, but where much of it isn’t. With royalty, espionage, traitors, and loyal “knights”, Kortney wove Drake and Myka’s story together in a way that had you cheering for the stubborn couple.
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⚠️ stop reading if you haven’t read The Promised Prince and The Stolen Princess ⚠️
•
I loved seeing Renna and Trev again. It was fun to hear Trev gushing about his honeymoon to Drake (much to his dismay). It was fun to see a deeper bond between the guys than we got in Promised Prince. I’m hoping they show up even more in book four!
•
Ah. Drake and Myka. The banter. The flirting. The hating. The loving. Oh I can’t even with these two! They’re my favorite couple of Kortney’s three books. Enemies to lovers is my favorite troupe, and Kortney NAILED IT. I loved how they had a relationship before Myka decided to hate Drake. It was just so good.
•
Well done Kortney! I’m on the edge of my seat for book four!!!
•
Five stars
Ages 16 & Up
•
Kortney has a way of just sucking you into the post-Desolation world, where somethings are familiar, but where much of it isn’t. With royalty, espionage, traitors, and loyal “knights”, Kortney wove Drake and Myka’s story together in a way that had you cheering for the stubborn couple.
•
⚠️ stop reading if you haven’t read The Promised Prince and The Stolen Princess ⚠️
•
I loved seeing Renna and Trev again. It was fun to hear Trev gushing about his honeymoon to Drake (much to his dismay). It was fun to see a deeper bond between the guys than we got in Promised Prince. I’m hoping they show up even more in book four!
•
Ah. Drake and Myka. The banter. The flirting. The hating. The loving. Oh I can’t even with these two! They’re my favorite couple of Kortney’s three books. Enemies to lovers is my favorite troupe, and Kortney NAILED IT. I loved how they had a relationship before Myka decided to hate Drake. It was just so good.
•
Well done Kortney! I’m on the edge of my seat for book four!!!
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Five stars
Ages 16 & Up
February 20, 2023
these desolation series probs deserved more love . nothing spectacular but theyr a good read and have cute and funny romance as well as likeable characters
loved how myka was a lil crazy
PROPER REVIEW TO COME
loved how myka was a lil crazy
PROPER REVIEW TO COME
October 24, 2021
Indie authors are always serving us some phenomenal tea, yet they're almost always overlooked. They deserve more recognition and love.
Tropes The Stolen Princess had:
Slow burn
Enemies to lovers
Angst
Knife to the throat and other places
Clean romance
Kortney made me feel everything from the bottom of my heart. I hurt the same way Myka hurt, we were kindred spirits for a moment. I stayed up late last night to finish this, I don't regret it. Who needs sleep anyway, right?
This would've been 5 stars If Drake had given Myka a proper apology for all his actions. But still this book absolutely rocks and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. It's going to be a blast.
Tropes The Stolen Princess had:
Slow burn
Enemies to lovers
Angst
Knife to the throat and other places
Clean romance
Kortney made me feel everything from the bottom of my heart. I hurt the same way Myka hurt, we were kindred spirits for a moment. I stayed up late last night to finish this, I don't regret it. Who needs sleep anyway, right?
This would've been 5 stars If Drake had given Myka a proper apology for all his actions. But still this book absolutely rocks and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. It's going to be a blast.
April 27, 2021
Hello, Commander Vestry!
Goodness. I knew I would adore Drake's story but somehow he flawlessly outdid my expectations!!👏🏼Drake didn't just steal a princess - he stole my heart too. *swoons* (Also, Drake is so much hotter than Trev - I said what I said!)
The Stolen Princess was amazing! The witty banter, sarcasm, enemies to lovers, Drake (Do I need to say any more?), swoon-worthy romance....if you are a romantic and love humor - why are you wasting time reading this review instead of reading The Stolen Princess???? (Aka that's your cue to go get it now!)
Kortney Keisel did an amazing job with this one. She balanced the romantic plot and overall plot really well. AND THE ENDING.😱I need book four immediately because...*stops before rant about reasons happens*
The number of highlights my Kindle now possesses of this book is unparalleled for me. Here are some of the favorite non-spoilery ones...
"'It's not my fault women find me completely irresistible.'"
"Blink, she had to remind herself. It's weird if you don't blink."
"Who knew pinkies could be so exciting?"
"If someone had asked Myka a week ago if eating a peanut could be attractive, she would've laughed in that person's face. Now, she had a completely different answer."
I'll leave it at that so you can find your own favorites when (not if, WHEN) you read this book!😉
Content warnings:
Kortney Keisel does a great job at making her romances clean, yet incredibly swoon-worthy, and I'd recommend this book for 16+.
There are a few semi-detailed to detailed kisses; a man goes shirtless several times; muscles are described; "crucial body parts" for intimacy are joked about briefly (using the term "crucial body parts" the whole time); a character uses the middle finger once; there is an almost-said swear word, but it is stopped and cursing is just left at "__ cursed"; jacka-- is used once; some joking about secret lovers; a woman is assaulted but nothing more than kissing happens; several minor stabbings; character's are shot (both fatally and not); fights between characters verbally and physically.
Other than that I think there are no other triggers and content warnings I have. There is not much more violence and suggestive things than in normal clean romances and fairytale-type books, so you can read pretty easy with this one!
Goodness. I knew I would adore Drake's story but somehow he flawlessly outdid my expectations!!👏🏼Drake didn't just steal a princess - he stole my heart too. *swoons* (Also, Drake is so much hotter than Trev - I said what I said!)
The Stolen Princess was amazing! The witty banter, sarcasm, enemies to lovers, Drake (Do I need to say any more?), swoon-worthy romance....if you are a romantic and love humor - why are you wasting time reading this review instead of reading The Stolen Princess???? (Aka that's your cue to go get it now!)
Kortney Keisel did an amazing job with this one. She balanced the romantic plot and overall plot really well. AND THE ENDING.😱I need book four immediately because...*stops before rant about reasons happens*
The number of highlights my Kindle now possesses of this book is unparalleled for me. Here are some of the favorite non-spoilery ones...
"'It's not my fault women find me completely irresistible.'"
"Blink, she had to remind herself. It's weird if you don't blink."
"Who knew pinkies could be so exciting?"
"If someone had asked Myka a week ago if eating a peanut could be attractive, she would've laughed in that person's face. Now, she had a completely different answer."
I'll leave it at that so you can find your own favorites when (not if, WHEN) you read this book!😉
Content warnings:
Kortney Keisel does a great job at making her romances clean, yet incredibly swoon-worthy, and I'd recommend this book for 16+.
There are a few semi-detailed to detailed kisses; a man goes shirtless several times; muscles are described; "crucial body parts" for intimacy are joked about briefly (using the term "crucial body parts" the whole time); a character uses the middle finger once; there is an almost-said swear word, but it is stopped and cursing is just left at "__ cursed"; jacka-- is used once; some joking about secret lovers; a woman is assaulted but nothing more than kissing happens; several minor stabbings; character's are shot (both fatally and not); fights between characters verbally and physically.
Other than that I think there are no other triggers and content warnings I have. There is not much more violence and suggestive things than in normal clean romances and fairytale-type books, so you can read pretty easy with this one!
February 12, 2022
I had pretty high hopes going into this once, since I loved the previous book so much. While it was a fun read, it didn't quite grab me like the previous book. I liked the storyline, of Princess Myka being kidnapped and falling for her captor, Commander Drake. I liked her becoming more aware of who her father really was and what was going on in her country and that she wanted to take action to make changes. I just had a harder time connecting to Myka, she came across rather young to me, which made the storyline be a little less believable. The romance was a big focus of the story, and I thought it was handled well. They have good chemistry and the whole enemies-to-lovers thing going on. Overall, it was a fun addition to the series and I'm looking forward to the next book.
Content Rated PG+
Romance: Kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild/Moderate - fighting, death, and a few lewd comments and physical advances from one of the kidnappers
Content Rated PG+
Romance: Kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild/Moderate - fighting, death, and a few lewd comments and physical advances from one of the kidnappers
June 13, 2024
Clean Fantasy Romance
4 Stars ✨
“I don’t think scars are ugly. They tell a story of who we are, where we’ve been, and how we became the people we are.”
The Stolen Princess, book 3 of the Desolation Series, takes place in sort of a post apocalyptic setting. There was a “Desolation” - (year 2055) an end of the world type situation, where lots of wars and devastation took place. Totally turning the world upside down. The book starts 200 years after the desolation, when the world has been semi rebuilt- but not the same as it once was.
She's falling for a man she hates. He's betting on her trust.
Princess Mykaleen Adler would do anything to save her dying father. But, when she's kidnapped by a rival kingdom's commander, her devotion wavers. Developing feelings for her enemy could destroy her future and her kingdom. Unless her charming captor is the one person telling her the truth.
This book was so much fun! It’s sort of a continuation from the Promised Prince. This was Drakes book, and it did not disappoint! My favorite part of this whole series is the likable characters, and their amazing personalities and banter. This author has done a fantastic job with reeling the reader in from the very start. They are clean, addicting, sweet and at times- hilarious. I don’t laugh out loud much during books, but these have made me do it, multiple times! It’s been so nice to read a couple fun and fluffy books. This installment had an enemies to lovers romance, action, and mystery. There was also a cliffhanger, that has me immediately wanting to jump into the final book.
4 Stars ✨
“I don’t think scars are ugly. They tell a story of who we are, where we’ve been, and how we became the people we are.”
The Stolen Princess, book 3 of the Desolation Series, takes place in sort of a post apocalyptic setting. There was a “Desolation” - (year 2055) an end of the world type situation, where lots of wars and devastation took place. Totally turning the world upside down. The book starts 200 years after the desolation, when the world has been semi rebuilt- but not the same as it once was.
She's falling for a man she hates. He's betting on her trust.
Princess Mykaleen Adler would do anything to save her dying father. But, when she's kidnapped by a rival kingdom's commander, her devotion wavers. Developing feelings for her enemy could destroy her future and her kingdom. Unless her charming captor is the one person telling her the truth.
This book was so much fun! It’s sort of a continuation from the Promised Prince. This was Drakes book, and it did not disappoint! My favorite part of this whole series is the likable characters, and their amazing personalities and banter. This author has done a fantastic job with reeling the reader in from the very start. They are clean, addicting, sweet and at times- hilarious. I don’t laugh out loud much during books, but these have made me do it, multiple times! It’s been so nice to read a couple fun and fluffy books. This installment had an enemies to lovers romance, action, and mystery. There was also a cliffhanger, that has me immediately wanting to jump into the final book.
May 26, 2021
Angsty Drama!
Another fun addition to this series! It was full of angsty drama and growing anticipation. The love/ hate banter made me smile. I really enjoyed this one!
Another fun addition to this series! It was full of angsty drama and growing anticipation. The love/ hate banter made me smile. I really enjoyed this one!
August 12, 2021
This is the book I liked the most out of the whole series. More than a love story, it has been an epic adventure of two people who didn't know what they were getting into when they met.
Myka's bubbly, easy-going, cheerful, natural and outgoing personality make her the perfect girl for a serious, demure, married Drake with his responsibilities and the eternal bachelor of Albion.
I loved that the relationship went from enemies to lovers. The banter, the sarcasm, the flirting, the hate, the love made the read so enjoyable and fun and the best couple in the series.
Despite the great conflict that could have made them bitter enemies, thanks to the love and goodness of their hearts, they made love triumph.
Myka's bubbly, easy-going, cheerful, natural and outgoing personality make her the perfect girl for a serious, demure, married Drake with his responsibilities and the eternal bachelor of Albion.
I loved that the relationship went from enemies to lovers. The banter, the sarcasm, the flirting, the hate, the love made the read so enjoyable and fun and the best couple in the series.
Despite the great conflict that could have made them bitter enemies, thanks to the love and goodness of their hearts, they made love triumph.
March 10, 2022
Very mixed feelings over this book…
The plot/premise were great! Very engaging.
Drake is the gentleman rogue so to speak, and I like him as a hero. Myka is a little to childish and stubborn for my tastes; I prefer heroines with a bit more maturity. I didn’t realize Portlend was *the* Portlend of Book 1 so that was a neat tie in. Drake and Trev’s friendship is also the best; the banter…oh my, it’s stellar!
My main issue with the book was the amount of borderline inappropriate humour (for my taste, others may not be bothered by it) and some language.
And that cliffhanger ending…!
Ultimately, a sweet enemies to friends to lover trope with too borderline inappropriate for my personal taste.
Content: innuendo; guy and girl sleep in the same cabin in cots beside each other; mentions of body parts and a girl on her period; middle fingering someone; board-line inappropriate humour; jack*** used once; jokes about having lovers
The plot/premise were great! Very engaging.
Drake is the gentleman rogue so to speak, and I like him as a hero. Myka is a little to childish and stubborn for my tastes; I prefer heroines with a bit more maturity. I didn’t realize Portlend was *the* Portlend of Book 1 so that was a neat tie in. Drake and Trev’s friendship is also the best; the banter…oh my, it’s stellar!
My main issue with the book was the amount of borderline inappropriate humour (for my taste, others may not be bothered by it) and some language.
And that cliffhanger ending…!
Ultimately, a sweet enemies to friends to lover trope with too borderline inappropriate for my personal taste.
Content: innuendo; guy and girl sleep in the same cabin in cots beside each other; mentions of body parts and a girl on her period; middle fingering someone; board-line inappropriate humour; jack*** used once; jokes about having lovers
April 18, 2021
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for a voluntarily and honest review. This review might contain spoilers for The Promised Prince
Actual rating: 4,5 stars
Original review on my blog Boekensteeg
The Stolen Princess is the third book in Kortney Keisel's Desolation series and the sequel to The Promised Prince. Where the first parts were set in Enderlin and New Hope, Kortney Keisel now takes the reader on a journey to Albion where Princess Mykaleen lives.
Since her mother's departure, Myka's father's rules have become even stricter. Stay within the walls of Tolsen House is the main rule. Still, Myka visits her friends Rommel and Joett every 16th day of the month. One day when she arrives at their place, she finds a half-naked soldier who claims to be a friend of Rommel. Myka doesn't trust him, but is also fascinated by this man named Drake. Who is this Drake? What secrets is he hiding?
At a critical moment in Myka's life, she is suddenly kidnapped by Drake and several other men, after which she is taken on horseback to the other side of the country. However, Myka can't help but think about her father and hate Drake. But what is the reason for this kidnapping? How can she be so nervous around Drake when she hates him? Is her hatred for Drake justified?
Kortney Keisel's earlier books in this series could be compared with The Selection . However, this book is completely different from the previous volumes. For example, Enemies to lovers is an important theme in this book. However, in terms of themes, The Stolen Princess has one thing in common with these earlier parts and that is the forbidden love.
The Stolen Princess is more of an adventure book than a real romantic book. This is due to both the storyline and the characters. Myka and Drake are both very tough characters who certainly know how to hold their own. However, they both have their past that was not always nice.
Besides the kidnapping of Myka, there is another theme that is central to the story and that is the secrets of King Adler. The reader is clearly aware of this, although for some characters this is still a mystery. In this book themes such as betrayal, murder, illness and imprisonment come to light.
I already knew that Kortney Keisel could write well, and she proves this once again in The Stolen Princess . The story has a good structure, has funny scenes and in my opinion the Enemies to Lovers theme certainly worked out well. The cliffhanger at the end of the story already raises many questions and suspicions in me, which I love to see answered. I am already looking forward to the next part in this series, because one thing is certain: I am a fan of this author!
Actual rating: 4,5 stars
Original review on my blog Boekensteeg
The Stolen Princess is the third book in Kortney Keisel's Desolation series and the sequel to The Promised Prince. Where the first parts were set in Enderlin and New Hope, Kortney Keisel now takes the reader on a journey to Albion where Princess Mykaleen lives.
Since her mother's departure, Myka's father's rules have become even stricter. Stay within the walls of Tolsen House is the main rule. Still, Myka visits her friends Rommel and Joett every 16th day of the month. One day when she arrives at their place, she finds a half-naked soldier who claims to be a friend of Rommel. Myka doesn't trust him, but is also fascinated by this man named Drake. Who is this Drake? What secrets is he hiding?
At a critical moment in Myka's life, she is suddenly kidnapped by Drake and several other men, after which she is taken on horseback to the other side of the country. However, Myka can't help but think about her father and hate Drake. But what is the reason for this kidnapping? How can she be so nervous around Drake when she hates him? Is her hatred for Drake justified?
Kortney Keisel's earlier books in this series could be compared with The Selection . However, this book is completely different from the previous volumes. For example, Enemies to lovers is an important theme in this book. However, in terms of themes, The Stolen Princess has one thing in common with these earlier parts and that is the forbidden love.
The Stolen Princess is more of an adventure book than a real romantic book. This is due to both the storyline and the characters. Myka and Drake are both very tough characters who certainly know how to hold their own. However, they both have their past that was not always nice.
"I don't think scars are ugly. They tell a story of who we are, where we've been, and how we became the person we are."
Besides the kidnapping of Myka, there is another theme that is central to the story and that is the secrets of King Adler. The reader is clearly aware of this, although for some characters this is still a mystery. In this book themes such as betrayal, murder, illness and imprisonment come to light.
I already knew that Kortney Keisel could write well, and she proves this once again in The Stolen Princess . The story has a good structure, has funny scenes and in my opinion the Enemies to Lovers theme certainly worked out well. The cliffhanger at the end of the story already raises many questions and suspicions in me, which I love to see answered. I am already looking forward to the next part in this series, because one thing is certain: I am a fan of this author!
July 9, 2021
AHHHH I NEED THE FORGOTTEN QUEEN NOOOW!!!! The Stolen Princess was everything that I wanted it to be and more!! The plot, the romance, the characters, THE ENDING!!!
The Plot: I love a good enemies-to-lovers, and this book nailed it! There was a good reason for the hate and enemy aspect and not just 'oh he's mean.' I loved that they actually met before Myka was kidnapped, providing some nice chemistry and making it so you're not yelling at her for falling for her captor, because she'd seen before that he was nice. Everything with Tolsten, the bad king and his secret weapons, Myka trying to figure out what's going on and escape, and Drake and his operatives trying to find and destroy the weapons was well written and kept me reading!
The Romance: As always with Kortney's books, it's steamy clean with plenty of heat but doesn't take it too far. The romance was so good and I loved watching Myka and Drake grow closer together! They fit so well. I love their banter and how they interact, with all of the funny nicknames, pretend stories, and playing games together. And the letters near the end! Aww so perfect!!
The Characters: MYKA IS AWESOME! I love her so much and how she's reckless, fun, strong, not afraid to say what she means, and caring. Her relationship with her father is so sad. She was sheltered from his ways as a child and truly believed him to be a good man. I hated seeing how crushed she was when she realized how horrible he really was. Drake is a sweetheart and I love him! I knew through The Promised Prince that I'd like him. I live for his friendship with Trev!! Even though you only see Trev for a little in this book, he still had me laughing every time he opened his mouth. XD Sweet Joett and Rommel, I love them. Hate Commander Stoddard and Dawsick.
There's so much more I could talk about on The Stolen Princess but I'll leave it at this. Guys, every single one of these books are seriously so so good! Please do yourself a favor and read them!!
The Plot: I love a good enemies-to-lovers, and this book nailed it! There was a good reason for the hate and enemy aspect and not just 'oh he's mean.' I loved that they actually met before Myka was kidnapped, providing some nice chemistry and making it so you're not yelling at her for falling for her captor, because she'd seen before that he was nice. Everything with Tolsten, the bad king and his secret weapons, Myka trying to figure out what's going on and escape, and Drake and his operatives trying to find and destroy the weapons was well written and kept me reading!
The Romance: As always with Kortney's books, it's steamy clean with plenty of heat but doesn't take it too far. The romance was so good and I loved watching Myka and Drake grow closer together! They fit so well. I love their banter and how they interact, with all of the funny nicknames, pretend stories, and playing games together. And the letters near the end! Aww so perfect!!
The Characters: MYKA IS AWESOME! I love her so much and how she's reckless, fun, strong, not afraid to say what she means, and caring. Her relationship with her father is so sad. She was sheltered from his ways as a child and truly believed him to be a good man. I hated seeing how crushed she was when she realized how horrible he really was. Drake is a sweetheart and I love him! I knew through The Promised Prince that I'd like him. I live for his friendship with Trev!! Even though you only see Trev for a little in this book, he still had me laughing every time he opened his mouth. XD Sweet Joett and Rommel, I love them. Hate Commander Stoddard and Dawsick.
There's so much more I could talk about on The Stolen Princess but I'll leave it at this. Guys, every single one of these books are seriously so so good! Please do yourself a favor and read them!!
January 29, 2025
I absolutely LOVED this book; it’s my favorite of the series so far!! The banter between Drake and Myka is just 😍🤌🏻! The plot was really good too; so much happening behind the scenes.
The ending had me 😱🤯 I need to read the last book ASAP!!!😍
The ending had me 😱🤯 I need to read the last book ASAP!!!😍
August 12, 2021
4.5 stars.
This is the best of the three books. The dialogue between them was fluid, funny, sparkling and it's captivating how the attraction slowly progresses.
Both Myka and Drake are amazing, especially her.
This is the best of the three books. The dialogue between them was fluid, funny, sparkling and it's captivating how the attraction slowly progresses.
Both Myka and Drake are amazing, especially her.
February 28, 2022
After reading The Promised Prince by Kortney Keisel and loving it, I really wanted to read The Stolen Princess. I especially wanted to read it after I found out Drake Vestry was the male lead!
I really like the enemy-to-lovers trope, especially when there is a good reason they’re enemies— and this one has that. I mean, Drake kidnaps Myka... that’s a pretty good reason for her to see him as an enemy.😂
I really liked how quirky and fun Myka was. She really was entertaining!
Drake is pretty great too! 😉
Also, that ending!!! Talk about plot twists... I kinda need the next book right away. 😅
This book had a lot of twists and turns, making it hard to put down.
I laughed out loud several times... or snorted. 😂 I love the humor Kortney puts into her books!
And she has some of the best first meeting when it comes to the couples. Same with the last scenes. They’re iconic!
Overall, this was a great YA dystopian. The enemies-to-lovers trope was well- done and the characters were fun. The action and suspense was enough to keep you hooked.
I’d recommend this to older teens (16-17) and up.
*Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC to review!
I really like the enemy-to-lovers trope, especially when there is a good reason they’re enemies— and this one has that. I mean, Drake kidnaps Myka... that’s a pretty good reason for her to see him as an enemy.😂
I really liked how quirky and fun Myka was. She really was entertaining!
Drake is pretty great too! 😉
Also, that ending!!! Talk about plot twists... I kinda need the next book right away. 😅
This book had a lot of twists and turns, making it hard to put down.
I laughed out loud several times... or snorted. 😂 I love the humor Kortney puts into her books!
And she has some of the best first meeting when it comes to the couples. Same with the last scenes. They’re iconic!
Overall, this was a great YA dystopian. The enemies-to-lovers trope was well- done and the characters were fun. The action and suspense was enough to keep you hooked.
I’d recommend this to older teens (16-17) and up.
*Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC to review!
January 11, 2022
i literally could not put it down.
April 3, 2025
DNF I just couldn’t get into it maybe I’m back in a reading slump (praying I’m not*)
😃😃 pre read 💋
I’m just not going to talk at this point 🤣🤣
😃😃 pre read 💋
I’m just not going to talk at this point 🤣🤣
April 29, 2021
Definitely having mixed feelings about this. It was fun, enjoyable at best and kind of a sweet romance too, but there were many things that bugged me about it, which is why I rated it a three.
Okay first off, the setting. This book has a weird kind of set-up; it’s taking place in the far future but also everything is way behind on times, there’s a mix of technology but it also has high fantasy elements, honestly if you don’t think too much about it, you can definitely roll with this concept with a grain of salt. The problem though, was the language, or the general knowledge that was used in this book, since it is supposed to be part fantasy, I would expect the expressions to be more formal, more sophisticated at the very least, but I felt like it had a lot of modern slang or wordings that just messed up with the whole vibes of the world building (?) there was a huge shift in what was suddenly known/not known between the pre-desolation and post-desolation time periods. For example, sometimes it seemed as if they understood a lot in terms of medicine and then other times it's as if it's all newly discovered. I really don't know how to explain it, but there were many moments where I started to question if it is a high fantasy, a dystopian or just a contemporary of sorts. It might seem like I'm pinpointing details that aren't that important, but I personally believe laying a solid foundation in the world building helps the reader understand the limitation of the world they are reading about, it helps engage the story more, to know what the protagonists are able to do or what would seem like an obstacle.
Second thing that completely irked me was Myka herself. I really can’t tell if I like her or not. I really can’t tell what her role is exactly. She’s socially awkward, a sheltered naïve princess, she’s snarky and bossy, she’s a damsel in distress, she’s weak and fragile, she’s childish and whiney … the list goes on. Characters are allowed to be complex, built with different layers, I know, but I just didn't see her working the concept well. I don’t think I’ve had that problem with Renna and Emeree, they had their strengths and weaknesses, but they were strong characters, they knew what they wanted. There was consistency in their manner, Myka just didn’t have that. For half the book I forgot she was supposed to be royalty or a princess, she led a stagnant life with no interest in the politics or picking up her duties to be exact and I know we're supposed to see her growth and development throughout the book but that's kind of a let down to wait 70% in for her to finally obtain a leadership role?
The underdevelopment of her characters and background also made me have mixed feelings about her relationship with Drake. The first encounter was a bit too forced, borderline cheesy banter, I loved the beginning and the incident of how they met, but their talk and jabs weren't smooth, they felt out of place and awkward. Their second meet was a bit more decent and natural so I liked that, but bottom line is, it felt like the plot was finding every opportunity to throw them together in the hopes of building... something. I NEEDED a breather from having them stuck together for so long, it limited the kind of development I was hoping for, there were 5 other people in their party for god's sake, the plot could've thrived with more rapport from the characters combined, instead everyone else was bland, they were interchangeable if you blinked.
Overall, there were a lot of good parts and bad parts. I couldn’t find the balance, I’m pretty sure the story lost its drive a couple of times and was just focused on the romance build up. I would say that this book unfortunately paled in comparison to the other two, though after that epilogue I’m guessing we’ll get another book soon? Crossing my fingers it improves.
Okay first off, the setting. This book has a weird kind of set-up; it’s taking place in the far future but also everything is way behind on times, there’s a mix of technology but it also has high fantasy elements, honestly if you don’t think too much about it, you can definitely roll with this concept with a grain of salt. The problem though, was the language, or the general knowledge that was used in this book, since it is supposed to be part fantasy, I would expect the expressions to be more formal, more sophisticated at the very least, but I felt like it had a lot of modern slang or wordings that just messed up with the whole vibes of the world building (?) there was a huge shift in what was suddenly known/not known between the pre-desolation and post-desolation time periods. For example, sometimes it seemed as if they understood a lot in terms of medicine and then other times it's as if it's all newly discovered. I really don't know how to explain it, but there were many moments where I started to question if it is a high fantasy, a dystopian or just a contemporary of sorts. It might seem like I'm pinpointing details that aren't that important, but I personally believe laying a solid foundation in the world building helps the reader understand the limitation of the world they are reading about, it helps engage the story more, to know what the protagonists are able to do or what would seem like an obstacle.
Second thing that completely irked me was Myka herself. I really can’t tell if I like her or not. I really can’t tell what her role is exactly. She’s socially awkward, a sheltered naïve princess, she’s snarky and bossy, she’s a damsel in distress, she’s weak and fragile, she’s childish and whiney … the list goes on. Characters are allowed to be complex, built with different layers, I know, but I just didn't see her working the concept well. I don’t think I’ve had that problem with Renna and Emeree, they had their strengths and weaknesses, but they were strong characters, they knew what they wanted. There was consistency in their manner, Myka just didn’t have that. For half the book I forgot she was supposed to be royalty or a princess, she led a stagnant life with no interest in the politics or picking up her duties to be exact and I know we're supposed to see her growth and development throughout the book but that's kind of a let down to wait 70% in for her to finally obtain a leadership role?
The underdevelopment of her characters and background also made me have mixed feelings about her relationship with Drake. The first encounter was a bit too forced, borderline cheesy banter, I loved the beginning and the incident of how they met, but their talk and jabs weren't smooth, they felt out of place and awkward. Their second meet was a bit more decent and natural so I liked that, but bottom line is, it felt like the plot was finding every opportunity to throw them together in the hopes of building... something. I NEEDED a breather from having them stuck together for so long, it limited the kind of development I was hoping for, there were 5 other people in their party for god's sake, the plot could've thrived with more rapport from the characters combined, instead everyone else was bland, they were interchangeable if you blinked.
Overall, there were a lot of good parts and bad parts. I couldn’t find the balance, I’m pretty sure the story lost its drive a couple of times and was just focused on the romance build up. I would say that this book unfortunately paled in comparison to the other two, though after that epilogue I’m guessing we’ll get another book soon? Crossing my fingers it improves.
July 3, 2021
“This isn’t a love story. This is an adventure.”
I loved every moment of this love adventure story! Myka is a wonderfully quirky, spirited, brutally honest leading lady and I loved her from the get-go. She grows so much during the story and I loved having a front row seat to her growth. I have loved Drake since Trev and Renna’s story! He is funny, talented, and filled with all kinds of strength. The banter between Myka and Drake was the absolute best! I especially loved their letter writing campaign. Such a great tale! I could only ask for a longer story or an epilogue showing where they go together. The epilogue with Captain Stoddard though?! Gah! What does it mean? Great cliffhanger! I hope the story doesn’t end here! Loved it!
I loved every moment of this love adventure story! Myka is a wonderfully quirky, spirited, brutally honest leading lady and I loved her from the get-go. She grows so much during the story and I loved having a front row seat to her growth. I have loved Drake since Trev and Renna’s story! He is funny, talented, and filled with all kinds of strength. The banter between Myka and Drake was the absolute best! I especially loved their letter writing campaign. Such a great tale! I could only ask for a longer story or an epilogue showing where they go together. The epilogue with Captain Stoddard though?! Gah! What does it mean? Great cliffhanger! I hope the story doesn’t end here! Loved it!
April 17, 2022
A solid 4.5. these books have major cheesy romance moments, but with a solid plot and a connection of characters from different books, i easily ignore the cheese and devour the story. Devin and Emree are my favorite couple, but Drake and Myka are almost at an equal. (Also because i like phantom of the opera and beauty and the beast -esque stories, so the reluctant kidnapper and fiery prisoner made for good reading. I called the plot twist before the epilogue! Well done author, I'm pleasantly surprised with it. I'm excited about the next book, but I'm going to take a week breather cuz burning through this series this fast can't be healthy 😅
I knew I liked Drake in the last book so I was pleased to have him as a hero. At first i wasn't sure I'd like Myka (I'll say this, the heroines in this series sound alike. They have a few things that make them different but essentially they're the same. I'm excited for a different kind of heroine in the next book so yeah)
I knew I liked Drake in the last book so I was pleased to have him as a hero. At first i wasn't sure I'd like Myka (I'll say this, the heroines in this series sound alike. They have a few things that make them different but essentially they're the same. I'm excited for a different kind of heroine in the next book so yeah)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2022
If you have read the previous book, then Drake is a familiar face.
This isn’t a love story. This is an adventure.
I like Myka. She’s hilarious and I found her to be relatable besides her bad judgment. The banter between Myka and Drake is great. I love a haters-to-lovers story. The bickering always seems better. I don’t know why I have that preference.
You don’t shoot someone just because you’re offended.
I had so many pop culture references that would automatically come to my head. Examples: It’s a flesh wound. Monty Python and the Holy Grail “Tis but a scratch”. Like at any moment, he might lay down on his side and prop his head up, accentuating his biceps and solid chest. Titanic “Draw me like one of your french girls”. Yes, I know my brain is weird.
The ending has me in a freaking mess. Like what in the smell! Oh, I can’t wait for this next book. I need answers.
This isn’t a love story. This is an adventure.
I like Myka. She’s hilarious and I found her to be relatable besides her bad judgment. The banter between Myka and Drake is great. I love a haters-to-lovers story. The bickering always seems better. I don’t know why I have that preference.
You don’t shoot someone just because you’re offended.
I had so many pop culture references that would automatically come to my head. Examples: It’s a flesh wound. Monty Python and the Holy Grail “Tis but a scratch”. Like at any moment, he might lay down on his side and prop his head up, accentuating his biceps and solid chest. Titanic “Draw me like one of your french girls”. Yes, I know my brain is weird.
The ending has me in a freaking mess. Like what in the smell! Oh, I can’t wait for this next book. I need answers.
April 29, 2021
This series has become a fast favorite of mine and the stolen Princess (book 3) is no different. I love how Kortney writes her characters, we had already met Drake in the Promised prince so I was very excited to learn that this would be his book. I love Drake and his passion for his king and best friend Trev and the kingdom of Albion. Now for Princess Myka, I loved Myka she was so Sassy and feisty. Exactly what Drake needed to keep him on his toes. Their enemies to lovers was the slow burn I needed but I really loved Myka’s growth throughout this book. Such a fantastic read. What a shocking plot twist at the end that will have me needing the next book now.
April 30, 2021
I finally finished The Stolen Princess!
I was introduced to Kortney and her Desolation Series by my friends here on bookstagram. I have enjoyed Kortney’s world building and characters immensely.
The Stolen Princess is by far my favorite installment in the series so far. I adored Myka and Drake and their enemies to lovers romance. Not only was the romance engaging, the suspense and intensity of the plot had me on the edge of my seat. And that ending😱
I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I was introduced to Kortney and her Desolation Series by my friends here on bookstagram. I have enjoyed Kortney’s world building and characters immensely.
The Stolen Princess is by far my favorite installment in the series so far. I adored Myka and Drake and their enemies to lovers romance. Not only was the romance engaging, the suspense and intensity of the plot had me on the edge of my seat. And that ending😱
I can’t wait to see what happens next.
May 9, 2021
Pros
-TOP NOTCH witty banter (loud-out-loud hilarious!)
-Slow-burn romance
-Fiesty, creative, adventurous female MC
-Protective, kind, loyal male MC
-Action-packed
-THE LETTERS
-No senseless love triangle
Cons
-Captor/captive trope
-Bittersweet revelations
-Loss of loved ones
-Lots of crying
-TOP NOTCH witty banter (loud-out-loud hilarious!)
-Slow-burn romance
-Fiesty, creative, adventurous female MC
-Protective, kind, loyal male MC
-Action-packed
-THE LETTERS
-No senseless love triangle
Cons
-Captor/captive trope
-Bittersweet revelations
-Loss of loved ones
-Lots of crying
March 3, 2023
SERIOUSLY??
How do these books keep getting better?
I am so happy to see the author tie in previous characters from book 1&2 ! I also was afraid I wouldn’t like this book because of how much I like book 2. Again, I was wrong. This story is so good, so rich, so heartbreaking yet heart mending. Such a talented author…. I’m exciged & nervous for the next 2 books! Does it have to end !? 😭😭❤️
How do these books keep getting better?
I am so happy to see the author tie in previous characters from book 1&2 ! I also was afraid I wouldn’t like this book because of how much I like book 2. Again, I was wrong. This story is so good, so rich, so heartbreaking yet heart mending. Such a talented author…. I’m exciged & nervous for the next 2 books! Does it have to end !? 😭😭❤️
January 29, 2023
I loved Drake & Mykas feisty, sweet, swoony story!!
January 18, 2024
The action, the banter, the plot twists UGH loved it
February 5, 2024
not my favorite the ending was really cute tho. the letters were cute. kinda want see what happens in the next book but not really.
May 10, 2021
This book was sooooo good!!!
Also how the heck is Seran alive???? I need answers!!!
Also how the heck is Seran alive???? I need answers!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2022
I honestly think that this is probably my favorite book in the series so far—but who am I kidding, they’re all literally the best books I have read in a long time so my choosing this one as my fave so far is extremely difficult. anyways. 10/10 recommend to anyone and everyone
May 6, 2021
⚠️ This review might contain spoilers for The Promised Prince. STOP reading if you haven’t read it! ⚠️
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
I loved The Promised Prince. So, as you can imagine, I couldn't believe my luck when I got my hands on an ARC of this book.
I already knew that Kortney Keisel was a great story-weaver and this book just confirmed that. The narration flowed smoothly, with a good balance of action, funny scenes and romance. Moreover, this book offered a deeper glimpse into the dynamics between the kingdoms and the post-Desolation world - an aspect that I really appreciated.
So why only 3.5 stars, you may ask? Maybe it was just that The Promised Prince had set the bar so high.
With The Promised Prince it had been love at first sight. I had adored every single part of Trev & Renna's story, surprising myself several times smiling like an idiot at their banter and suffering as hell as the marriage with Seran approached. Trev & Renna were just so perfect for (and, at the same time, dramatically beyond the reach of) each other, and their feelings and struggles were so believable and relatable that it had felt like I was there along with them.
But back to our story...
I enjoyed reading The Stolen Princess, but I guess there was not much of a spark.
Myka and Drake were cute together and at times utterly hilarious. And the exchange of letters at the end was simply fantastic - the real cherry on the top. However, despite their banter and the developing attraction they kept denying, their chemistry felt a bit strained and forced to me (e.g. the overall dynamics of their first encounter), less natural compared to Trev and Renna's.
Nonetheless, I will surely read the next book - especially after the final twist and the cliffhanger that made me terribly curious.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for a voluntary and honest review. Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
*************
10 April 2021
I have just received this e-mail:
Wow! This is the best early birthday present ever (footnote: my birthday is in December XD)!
Can't wait to read it!
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
I loved The Promised Prince. So, as you can imagine, I couldn't believe my luck when I got my hands on an ARC of this book.
I already knew that Kortney Keisel was a great story-weaver and this book just confirmed that. The narration flowed smoothly, with a good balance of action, funny scenes and romance. Moreover, this book offered a deeper glimpse into the dynamics between the kingdoms and the post-Desolation world - an aspect that I really appreciated.
So why only 3.5 stars, you may ask? Maybe it was just that The Promised Prince had set the bar so high.
With The Promised Prince it had been love at first sight. I had adored every single part of Trev & Renna's story, surprising myself several times smiling like an idiot at their banter and suffering as hell as the marriage with Seran approached. Trev & Renna were just so perfect for (and, at the same time, dramatically beyond the reach of) each other, and their feelings and struggles were so believable and relatable that it had felt like I was there along with them.
But back to our story...
I enjoyed reading The Stolen Princess, but I guess there was not much of a spark.
Myka and Drake were cute together and at times utterly hilarious. And the exchange of letters at the end was simply fantastic - the real cherry on the top. However, despite their banter and the developing attraction they kept denying, their chemistry felt a bit strained and forced to me (e.g. the overall dynamics of their first encounter), less natural compared to Trev and Renna's.
Nonetheless, I will surely read the next book - especially after the final twist and the cliffhanger that made me terribly curious.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for a voluntary and honest review. Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
*************
10 April 2021
I have just received this e-mail:
From: Kortney Keisel
Congratulations! You won the giveaway for the ARC of The Stolen Princess.
Wow! This is the best early birthday present ever (footnote: my birthday is in December XD)!
Can't wait to read it!
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