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The Princess Purge #2
The Princess Strike
Princess Briar’s adventure in the Amstraad Republic continues. This time, she’s entering the battle for survival with her eyes open.All who betrayed her will pay with blood—starting with the men behind the deadly gameshow.Armed with just her popularity and a devoted companion, she must first overthrow its president and break free of her treacherous husband.But with the Republic on the verge of invasion, she must choose between saving the country and revenge.Series complete!
554 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2022
374 people are currently reading
1916 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
May 17, 2022
I remember how I once added these books to my wishlist and wondered why no one was talking about them. The plot sounded amazing, the world sounded cool and the promise of political intrige and rebellion was made. I really enjoyed the first trilogy and I was very happy when Castel announced that we would get another series. This series is in a way a prequel to the trilogy and without spoilers you can safely read this one first.
What I really loved about this book is the politics. Not so much because it's the boring kind of politics we read about in the newspaper, but more because it's the kind of politics played via de media. All characters in this story were constantly trying to spin stories the right way, to get others to react in a certain way, to capture embarrassing moments and to show each other's weak points and honest views on the world and society.
And since this country thrives on shows and action this political battle of course comes with a lot of action, fighting and danger. I have to admit that I think the action takes away a little from the powerful picture that is painted of how the media can frame, make and break people. However, the action makes sure to remind us that the consequences of failing are severe. It's not just a matter of reputation. It's also a matter of life and dead.
In the end the book, which is the last part of a duology, ties perfectly into the trilogy I already read. It would actually be fun to re-read the series, to see if having read this duology changes how I view things in the trilogy. After all, the heroes of this book are not always seen as heroes in the trilogy, and you can't blame the characters starring in the trilogy to not trust these people. After all, we now know what our princess has endured to become the president. But the other characters didn't.
What I really loved about this book is the politics. Not so much because it's the boring kind of politics we read about in the newspaper, but more because it's the kind of politics played via de media. All characters in this story were constantly trying to spin stories the right way, to get others to react in a certain way, to capture embarrassing moments and to show each other's weak points and honest views on the world and society.
And since this country thrives on shows and action this political battle of course comes with a lot of action, fighting and danger. I have to admit that I think the action takes away a little from the powerful picture that is painted of how the media can frame, make and break people. However, the action makes sure to remind us that the consequences of failing are severe. It's not just a matter of reputation. It's also a matter of life and dead.
In the end the book, which is the last part of a duology, ties perfectly into the trilogy I already read. It would actually be fun to re-read the series, to see if having read this duology changes how I view things in the trilogy. After all, the heroes of this book are not always seen as heroes in the trilogy, and you can't blame the characters starring in the trilogy to not trust these people. After all, we now know what our princess has endured to become the president. But the other characters didn't.
February 21, 2024
Great end to the series. I now understand Briar's motives for wanting to invade Phangloria. I would too!
GREAT READ!!!
GREAT READ!!!
May 24, 2022
The Princess Strike is the second book in Cordelia K. Castel's spin off series that details Briar's fight when she is sent to a neighboring Republic. She survived the Princess Purge, but things are only going to get more intense from here. She's determined to make President Heath pay, but he's not the only one she has her sights set on. She is eyeing the Ministry back home who seem to have turned their back on her and add in her philandering, scheming husband to that list, too. It's time for the Amstraad Republic to see some change and Briar intends to be the one to bring it - one way or another.
Briar's story continues and it seems that she just can't win with these circumstances. I ate this book up from beginning to end. Briar is an engaging character, but her flaws are often showcased. Don't worry I didn't have a problem with that. It makes her more appealing as a character and I couldn't help but cheer her on a little louder all the way. There are so many twists packed into this book and the amount of danger Briar faces is practically never-ending.
I loved reading all of the books connected to this series, so it's a bit disappointing that it appears that this is the final book in the series. I am clinging to hope that there will be more future books though. I'm rating this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Briar's story continues and it seems that she just can't win with these circumstances. I ate this book up from beginning to end. Briar is an engaging character, but her flaws are often showcased. Don't worry I didn't have a problem with that. It makes her more appealing as a character and I couldn't help but cheer her on a little louder all the way. There are so many twists packed into this book and the amount of danger Briar faces is practically never-ending.
I loved reading all of the books connected to this series, so it's a bit disappointing that it appears that this is the final book in the series. I am clinging to hope that there will be more future books though. I'm rating this book 5 out of 5 stars.
April 15, 2022
Ooh Princess Briar is back and she is amazing. More trials are coming her way and her husband is one of the worst. She and Mouse have soo much going on that they barely have to time catch thier breath. This book is filled with many plot twits and lots of action. I loved the ending to thos book.
May 27, 2022
The Princess Strike is the second book in Cordelia Castel's spin off series and follows Princess Briar’s adventure in the Amstraad Republic and her continued fight/resistance against all those that wronged her. If you’re a fan of Hunger Games or dystopia type stories filled with intrigue and secrets then this is the one for you!
After surviving the Princess Trials and Princess Purge, things didn’t get easy for Princess Briar, eldest child of the Phangloria royal family, who was essentially forced into marriage with a man she despised and was continually played by the other side. Determined to make President Heath and the Ministry pay for all their wrong doings at the same time as fighting for those that deserve representation, she agrees to yet another mission/game to become President but soon finds herself adding other names to the list as well—including her conniving husband.
With one obstacle after another ij her path, Briar soon realizes she’ll need her own trusted companions to help her navigate all the deceit and danger along the way and I loved every single step of it! There are so many twists and turns, hidden agendas, backstabbing and betrayals in this book it will keep you on the edge of your seat as the danger and enemies against Briar and her trusted team keeps growing. The question is will she survive this time, and better yet, finally get her happy ending with the one that she was always meant to be with?
“I would cling to life if it meant spending just a moment longer with you,”
After surviving the Princess Trials and Princess Purge, things didn’t get easy for Princess Briar, eldest child of the Phangloria royal family, who was essentially forced into marriage with a man she despised and was continually played by the other side. Determined to make President Heath and the Ministry pay for all their wrong doings at the same time as fighting for those that deserve representation, she agrees to yet another mission/game to become President but soon finds herself adding other names to the list as well—including her conniving husband.
With one obstacle after another ij her path, Briar soon realizes she’ll need her own trusted companions to help her navigate all the deceit and danger along the way and I loved every single step of it! There are so many twists and turns, hidden agendas, backstabbing and betrayals in this book it will keep you on the edge of your seat as the danger and enemies against Briar and her trusted team keeps growing. The question is will she survive this time, and better yet, finally get her happy ending with the one that she was always meant to be with?
“I would cling to life if it meant spending just a moment longer with you,”
September 20, 2025
It wasn’t bad, but the last two books had so many typos and forgotten words
May 20, 2022
We are back with Princess Blair in the second book of the spin-off series, The Princess Strike! Full of ambition but surrounded by treachery, Blair finds herself continuing to fight for survival. Unsure of who she can trust, this book is a whirlwind and I thoroughly enjoyed this continuation! Can't wait to see what is next!
March 20, 2025
“The Princess Strike," the latest installment in the The Princess Trials series, delivers the adventure and character development fans have come to expect. While it shares some of the editorial shortcomings of its predecessor, "The Princess Purge," the core of the story remains compelling and engaging.
One of the undeniable strengths of "The Princess Strike" lies in its expansion of Princess Briar and Mouse's backstory. The depth and nuance added to their relationship is a true highlight, providing valuable context and emotional resonance to their actions in the present narrative. The adventure itself is well-paced and filled with exciting moments, keeping the reader invested in the unfolding events.
However, it's impossible to ignore the persistent editorial issues that unfortunately detract from the overall reading experience. Inconsistencies in names, programs, and even the occasional misgendering, while likely unintentional, create moments of jarring distraction. Similarly, the numerous grammatical errors, such as "It's is," "growl" without the proper conjugation, and the "were/where" confusion, disrupt the flow of the prose and hinder immersion.
It is clear that the author possesses a strong talent for storytelling and character development. The foundation of "The Princess Strike" is solid, and the world created is rich and captivating. Therefore, it's particularly disheartening to see these technical flaws overshadow the inherent quality of the narrative.
Looking forward, a focus on meticulous editing would elevate this series to its full potential. A thorough review process, perhaps with the assistance of professional editors and proofreaders, would significantly enhance the reader's enjoyment and allow the author's storytelling prowess to truly shine.
Despite these challenges, "The Princess Strike" still offers a rewarding reading experience for fans of the series. The compelling characters and engaging plot remain its strongest assets. With attention to the editorial details, future installments have the potential to recapture the magic of the series' earlier successes and deliver truly exceptional stories. This series, at its heart, is a gem, and with a little more polishing, it can truly sparkle.
One of the undeniable strengths of "The Princess Strike" lies in its expansion of Princess Briar and Mouse's backstory. The depth and nuance added to their relationship is a true highlight, providing valuable context and emotional resonance to their actions in the present narrative. The adventure itself is well-paced and filled with exciting moments, keeping the reader invested in the unfolding events.
However, it's impossible to ignore the persistent editorial issues that unfortunately detract from the overall reading experience. Inconsistencies in names, programs, and even the occasional misgendering, while likely unintentional, create moments of jarring distraction. Similarly, the numerous grammatical errors, such as "It's is," "growl" without the proper conjugation, and the "were/where" confusion, disrupt the flow of the prose and hinder immersion.
It is clear that the author possesses a strong talent for storytelling and character development. The foundation of "The Princess Strike" is solid, and the world created is rich and captivating. Therefore, it's particularly disheartening to see these technical flaws overshadow the inherent quality of the narrative.
Looking forward, a focus on meticulous editing would elevate this series to its full potential. A thorough review process, perhaps with the assistance of professional editors and proofreaders, would significantly enhance the reader's enjoyment and allow the author's storytelling prowess to truly shine.
Despite these challenges, "The Princess Strike" still offers a rewarding reading experience for fans of the series. The compelling characters and engaging plot remain its strongest assets. With attention to the editorial details, future installments have the potential to recapture the magic of the series' earlier successes and deliver truly exceptional stories. This series, at its heart, is a gem, and with a little more polishing, it can truly sparkle.
February 13, 2023
1st reading: Once again, I'm annoyed with the haphazard editing. Have I read books with poorer editing? Yes. But the actual writing in this book is good enough that the misused words and nonsensical sentences - not to mention the confusion of characters' names and a case of the characters eating their food before the waiter brings it to them - is maddening.
The cockroach-like aspects of some characters, as well as the absolutely incomprehensible behavior of the average person in the story, are a bit frustrating as well. They're one of the main foundations of the story, in fact the whole dystopian world built through these series of books; but at the same time, it means that there are remarkably few characters worth any kind of sympathy. Yes, I get it; it's a dystopian world. But does that mean all humanity apart from a handful are irreparably corrupt? I'm even including Briar in this; by the end of this duology (and in the original trilogy) she is someone capable of murder and no longer holds her vows with any kind of reverence. I understand changing your mind about your religious beliefs, but her experiences have changed her outlook to the point that the ends now justify the means. She calls herself hopeful, but rather she seems damaged.
I found Zea to be a much better, more sympathetic heroine.
The cockroach-like aspects of some characters, as well as the absolutely incomprehensible behavior of the average person in the story, are a bit frustrating as well. They're one of the main foundations of the story, in fact the whole dystopian world built through these series of books; but at the same time, it means that there are remarkably few characters worth any kind of sympathy. Yes, I get it; it's a dystopian world. But does that mean all humanity apart from a handful are irreparably corrupt? I'm even including Briar in this; by the end of this duology (and in the original trilogy) she is someone capable of murder and no longer holds her vows with any kind of reverence. I understand changing your mind about your religious beliefs, but her experiences have changed her outlook to the point that the ends now justify the means. She calls herself hopeful, but rather she seems damaged.
I found Zea to be a much better, more sympathetic heroine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2024
I really enjoyed this last installment and I’m sad it’s over. This felt more like the original trilogy and I’d love Briar’s POV of the Princess Trials. This book was nonstop action as Briar faced obstacle after obstacle. After nearly every barrier, you hate Cannon even more while your love for Mouse grows. Briar is a character that shows you can be strong and compassionate, angry and kind, revengeful and empathetic. She is complex and has multiple layers, showing that a character can be and do more than one thing. I love that her love story didn’t undermine her goals. The book interesting to read because, ultimately, I knew what happened, but I was so involved in the story that I nearly forgot. There are so many twists and challenges that pop up around every corner that it was almost hard to remember the final outcome. Just when you think it’s over, something else happens. Again, I kind of wish I had read Briar’s story before Zea May’s because it would’ve added another level to her story without revealing anything. Over all, this was an amazing series that kept me hooked from beginning to end and I only wish there was more.
July 23, 2025
An Absolutely Phenomenal Finale – I’m Still Swooning!
However, there’s a typo that I will not forgive. They change Mouse’s name aka Colonel Karabiner von Mauser aka Mouse as he’s introduced in the first book of The Princess Trials pg. 371 and all other books in the series and change his first name to Carabiner. It’s with a K not a C and this happens multiple times on page 115, 116, 181, 312, 314, & 324. Lazy editing catch. Don’t change Mouse's first name, it's Karabiner with a K!
The Princess Strike is easily one of the most romantic, emotional, and brilliantly crafted books I’ve ever read. It’s a breathtaking love story but also a deeply satisfying prequel conclusion that unlocks the fire behind Princess Briar’s motivations.
I highlighted every part that made me swoon—so now half of my Kindle is glowing in bright pink romantic highlights. Every whispered confession, stolen glance, and bold declaration had me either crying, screaming, or clutching my heart.
The love story? Indescribably romantic.
The political intrigue? Incredible.
The final climax/ presidential challenge? Satisfying.
I adored Princess Briar's journey as she navigates a satisfying character arc combating her perception through media, moral dilemmas stemming from religious differences, the line between love and fear of infidelity, and her rise to leadership through her candidacy for president. Her evolution is inspiring, layered, and so emotionally raw that I felt like I was her, understanding every decision, hesitation, and difficult choice. And don’t even get me started on Captain Von Mauser, I’m completely in love. His complete devotion, strength, and tenderness had me melting on every page. And the ‘I love you scene’ had me as a sobbing mess. There’s WAY more adorable moments than in The Princess Purge.
On the flip side, General Cannon and President Heath? I could rage for days. They’re the most despicable kind of villains you just HATE. They’re despicable, corrupt, chilling, unredeemable pure evil, and perfect foil to everything Briar stands for.
Even the little things like the media manipulation, the sovereignty of a little coffee shop Café Roast is such a fun original idea I’ve never read about in a book series. Additionally, there’s lots of ethical stuff from privacy invasion, slavery, oppressed nations, human cloning, terrifying medical manipulation technology, natural disasters, invasion, and drone warfare that added a lot to the plot. I read the book in one sitting. Every detail felt intentional and smart.
If you’ve read the rest of The Princess Trials series, this book is the emotional payoff we needed.
However, there’s a typo that I will not forgive. They change Mouse’s name aka Colonel Karabiner von Mauser aka Mouse as he’s introduced in the first book of The Princess Trials pg. 371 and all other books in the series and change his first name to Carabiner. It’s with a K not a C and this happens multiple times on page 115, 116, 181, 312, 314, & 324. Lazy editing catch. Don’t change Mouse's first name, it's Karabiner with a K!
The Princess Strike is easily one of the most romantic, emotional, and brilliantly crafted books I’ve ever read. It’s a breathtaking love story but also a deeply satisfying prequel conclusion that unlocks the fire behind Princess Briar’s motivations.
I highlighted every part that made me swoon—so now half of my Kindle is glowing in bright pink romantic highlights. Every whispered confession, stolen glance, and bold declaration had me either crying, screaming, or clutching my heart.
The love story? Indescribably romantic.
The political intrigue? Incredible.
The final climax/ presidential challenge? Satisfying.
I adored Princess Briar's journey as she navigates a satisfying character arc combating her perception through media, moral dilemmas stemming from religious differences, the line between love and fear of infidelity, and her rise to leadership through her candidacy for president. Her evolution is inspiring, layered, and so emotionally raw that I felt like I was her, understanding every decision, hesitation, and difficult choice. And don’t even get me started on Captain Von Mauser, I’m completely in love. His complete devotion, strength, and tenderness had me melting on every page. And the ‘I love you scene’ had me as a sobbing mess. There’s WAY more adorable moments than in The Princess Purge.
On the flip side, General Cannon and President Heath? I could rage for days. They’re the most despicable kind of villains you just HATE. They’re despicable, corrupt, chilling, unredeemable pure evil, and perfect foil to everything Briar stands for.
Even the little things like the media manipulation, the sovereignty of a little coffee shop Café Roast is such a fun original idea I’ve never read about in a book series. Additionally, there’s lots of ethical stuff from privacy invasion, slavery, oppressed nations, human cloning, terrifying medical manipulation technology, natural disasters, invasion, and drone warfare that added a lot to the plot. I read the book in one sitting. Every detail felt intentional and smart.
If you’ve read the rest of The Princess Trials series, this book is the emotional payoff we needed.
May 24, 2022
Princess Briar and Mouse are back and OMG I am loving it - Hunger Games meets Divergent type feel but with added pazazz. The Politics in teh background is one of teh things that makes this series and i am not normally one that likes anything political but its how teh ruling system is set up along with the person with the most popularity gets to lead.
This creates some shallow personalities that will do anything for popularity bringing out the nastier side of human nature plus those that want to break the system and just put the populus first leveling up the ability to get food and water.
I love the angst and dynamic between Briar and Mouse plus her internal dilemma about her marriage vows to the Prince ( who lets face it we all want to see humilated at the least) and i think more than one of us is probably shouting at her to abandon her vows and calim Mouse 110%
I really LOVE this storey and this world and cant wait for teh next installment.
This creates some shallow personalities that will do anything for popularity bringing out the nastier side of human nature plus those that want to break the system and just put the populus first leveling up the ability to get food and water.
I love the angst and dynamic between Briar and Mouse plus her internal dilemma about her marriage vows to the Prince ( who lets face it we all want to see humilated at the least) and i think more than one of us is probably shouting at her to abandon her vows and calim Mouse 110%
I really LOVE this storey and this world and cant wait for teh next installment.
May 26, 2022
I absolutely loved getting more of Briar's story and could not put it down. She is put through more trials, betrayals and twists that will have your head turning.
After making it through the Princess Purge Briar is put through an even more dire situation but one she seems to have a lot of hope for as well as a cause. Be prepared for some twists that you really don't see coming until it happens. I loved the growth of Briar and getting to understand what has shaped her to be who she is. She goes through a lot in this book hoever she does everything to keep true to herself, even in a world where everything is just a game. She is out for revenge but she is also out for justice.
I hope to see more from this world that Cordelia has created and getting to delve deeper into the republic and plangloria.
After making it through the Princess Purge Briar is put through an even more dire situation but one she seems to have a lot of hope for as well as a cause. Be prepared for some twists that you really don't see coming until it happens. I loved the growth of Briar and getting to understand what has shaped her to be who she is. She goes through a lot in this book hoever she does everything to keep true to herself, even in a world where everything is just a game. She is out for revenge but she is also out for justice.
I hope to see more from this world that Cordelia has created and getting to delve deeper into the republic and plangloria.
May 22, 2022
Bent reality to grant the readers a happy ending
Princess Briar, eldest child of the Phangloria royal family, has survived the Princess Trials and the Princess Purge only to realize that she is married to a man she despises. As the story progresses intentions are broadcast, betrayal will come fast, and if she survives everything in front of her she just might gain a love that will last. Cordelia K. Castel bent reality to grant the readers a happy ending in The Princess Strike. I hope that this is not the last we will see of this world or these characters.
I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
Princess Briar, eldest child of the Phangloria royal family, has survived the Princess Trials and the Princess Purge only to realize that she is married to a man she despises. As the story progresses intentions are broadcast, betrayal will come fast, and if she survives everything in front of her she just might gain a love that will last. Cordelia K. Castel bent reality to grant the readers a happy ending in The Princess Strike. I hope that this is not the last we will see of this world or these characters.
I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
May 29, 2022
Briar's story shows the intricate politics of the Armstraadi republic and her crazy journey navigating all the schemes and plotting. Mouse is also back, supportive as always and offering his experience to bring about the change that is very needed. Briar, the Phanglorian princess that was thrown into the deep waters of a strange country with completely different rules and system than what she was used to, fights tooth and nail against her enemies and to establish her place in her new home country. Brave and determined, Briar is a strong heroine even through all her flaws, and she grows into a leadership figure worth following. Fast and eventful reading experience.
September 20, 2022
>Book Review – The Princess Strike
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 2nd in the Princess Purge series and ends HEA-ish. Mouse and Briar fight Cannon and his father for the chance to become the President of Amstraad. There are constant attempts on Briar’s and Mouse’s lives. There are very silly, yet deadly rules in their democratic process. The romance heats up as Briar decides how badly she wants Mouse vs. how seriously she wants to take her original wedding vows.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 4 stars. The romance was better in this book. This book leads directly into the Princess Trials story.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 2nd in the Princess Purge series and ends HEA-ish. Mouse and Briar fight Cannon and his father for the chance to become the President of Amstraad. There are constant attempts on Briar’s and Mouse’s lives. There are very silly, yet deadly rules in their democratic process. The romance heats up as Briar decides how badly she wants Mouse vs. how seriously she wants to take her original wedding vows.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 4 stars. The romance was better in this book. This book leads directly into the Princess Trials story.
May 4, 2022
This is the concluding title in this arc with Briar, and what a ride it is. Her and Mouse are on a quest to win the presidency, while trying to keep her husband and his father from stopping them and winning the presidency for themselves. This was filled with suspense and action like the other book, and we see just how strong a character Briar really is. She is so regal throughout the book, and I love her relationship with Mouse. They make such a cute couple. Great end to a great story. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
May 16, 2022
What a fantastic addition to the princess trials series where we're back with Briar in her second book. I was blown away by this second book. What a fantastic adventure we get to go on with Briar and her mission to win. I loved the plot and there were lots of twists and turns that I was completely engaged right to the end. I loved the writing, it was fun and exciting. I loved the first book with Briar, but the second book was even better. Fantastic plot, fantastic characters and what a wonderful read!
May 28, 2022
A real Page turner full of plots, survival and love.
The story is excellent and makes me want to reread the Princess Trials all over again. Great characters, unexpected plots, betrayals, strength and support. Includes a continuing love story and the maturation of a strong Princess. I would have given it 5 stars but there were too many errors, typos, tenses, spelling errors that detracted from the storyline. If Ms Castel would like to fix the errors I'd be happy to send my Kindle notes to her or an editor.
The story is excellent and makes me want to reread the Princess Trials all over again. Great characters, unexpected plots, betrayals, strength and support. Includes a continuing love story and the maturation of a strong Princess. I would have given it 5 stars but there were too many errors, typos, tenses, spelling errors that detracted from the storyline. If Ms Castel would like to fix the errors I'd be happy to send my Kindle notes to her or an editor.
August 31, 2023
I'm very attached to this universe, I think it's extremely underrated! After finally completing all five books, I'd like to say that Castel is very talented and creative with how she blended the two main stories, especially with how Briar's duology completely changed my perspective on the Phanglorian Princess. The ending also made me want to reread the first three, so maybe I'll do that sometime in the future. It was very refreshing to read such an enjoyable and hooking series after a small reading slump.
April 28, 2022
Another good related book in the princess series. This princess is no wilting flower. She full of grit and determination to help the people of her new country. Evil doers abound and she has many obstacles to overcome. But she is resourceful and smart and stubborn. I liked her very much. The love interest is quite the gallant fellow and he is her match in every way. I wish there was some steam to go with the romance and action that would make this book a smash hit. Highly recommended.
May 20, 2022
This was so so good! From the very start you can’t help but be drawn back into this incredible world. Princess Briar is such a great character and her journey is fast paced and action packed and has you clinging to the edge of your seat. The twists and turns will have you spinning on this rollercoaster ride and the betrayal and deception give her obstacles to overcome but overcome them she does! Full of intrigue, danger and drama, this was captivating and enthralling and I really enjoyed it.
May 23, 2022
Although this is more of a prequel to The Princess Trials series, I wouldn't worry too much if you read them out of order. Princess Briar has more trials coming her way as she tries to navigate this social media orientated world. But people will use her for their own causes and she has to find a way to save herself as well as a nation that isn't even her own.
I really enjoyed this series from start to finish. Brilliant plot, interesting characters and a real page turner.
I really enjoyed this series from start to finish. Brilliant plot, interesting characters and a real page turner.
May 29, 2022
The Princess Strike is the second book in the Duology that involves Princess Briar. It is a sort of prequel to the Princess Trials series, so you can easily read this first and then the next series and not have any spoilers.
Princess Briar teams up with Mouse again in a fight against the current President and his son, who is also her husband, to take over and become the new president. There is plenty of dirty laundry aired and back-stabbing is rife in this book. There is ever a dull moment in this book and you find yourself willing Princess Briar on ( as well as Mouse).
There is so much detail that goes on in this book that you can see it happening all at once. You are on the edge of your seat for the majority of the time and you get a conclusion to it! This was a very good series, as is the other series by Cordelia Castel. It has a great Hunger Games vibe to it and it is perfect for dystopian fans.
Princess Briar teams up with Mouse again in a fight against the current President and his son, who is also her husband, to take over and become the new president. There is plenty of dirty laundry aired and back-stabbing is rife in this book. There is ever a dull moment in this book and you find yourself willing Princess Briar on ( as well as Mouse).
There is so much detail that goes on in this book that you can see it happening all at once. You are on the edge of your seat for the majority of the time and you get a conclusion to it! This was a very good series, as is the other series by Cordelia Castel. It has a great Hunger Games vibe to it and it is perfect for dystopian fans.
May 24, 2022
The Princess Strike by Cordelia Castel was fabulous. This author is seriously becoming one of my faves. She has managed to build a complex, believable world, rife with political intrigue and angst. The characters are well developed, and I found that I either loved or hated them, drawing me further into the very well written complex plot. I have no doubt that we'll be seeing a lot more from this talented writer in the future and I sincerely hope that we see more of this wonderful world!!!
May 24, 2022
I will admit that I picked this one up on the suggestion of another & I wasn't disappointed. Although I did read it out of order, I still really enjoyed it. The politics & how they were portrayed were a little close to home. Princess Briar is a great character. She grows & begins to find her own footing while having to deal with her father-in-law & a her husband who is terrible.
Now I need to go back & read the other books!
Now I need to go back & read the other books!
May 24, 2022
Brilliant read. I loved Delving back into this world.
Bria is back trying to win what amounts to a popularity contest leading to seeing the vilest side that people have to offer. Briars marriage vows prove a sham, but Luckily she has mouse.
The Princess Trials may be over but there are many tribulations ahead.
This World is so involved that you cant help but be sucked in.
brilliant read. I really do hope we get more from these characters.
Bria is back trying to win what amounts to a popularity contest leading to seeing the vilest side that people have to offer. Briars marriage vows prove a sham, but Luckily she has mouse.
The Princess Trials may be over but there are many tribulations ahead.
This World is so involved that you cant help but be sucked in.
brilliant read. I really do hope we get more from these characters.
May 25, 2022
I’ve loved this series since it first came out, this book was a good ending to a great series. I was disappointed in the writing of the book however…there were a lot of typos, punctuation errors and what seemed like unfinished thoughts in this book. It was as if the author was in a hurry to finish it and the publishers did a poor job checking the layout of the book before they printed it. I still loved Princess Briar’s story though, I hope we get another book with more details in the future. ❤️
February 15, 2024
I flew straight into The Princess Strike after devouring the first novel in this prequel series in a day. For reasonably hefty novels, they made for quick reading. Princess Briar has survived her Princess Purge ordeal, but there's far more on the horizon for her. Very aware of the corrupt powers in charge of the Amstraad Republic, Briar finds herself running President. But there's a problem with running against corrupt individuals; they don't play fair.
And so Briar finds herself on the run again, with both her life and her reputation on the line. President Heath is willing to go to any lengths to knock her out of the running and her husband, the President's son is certainly not going to make her life any easier. Along with a hefty amount of action, this novel also showcases the political intrigue behind the scenes giving a wider and deeper view into the world around Briar.
My only real complaint here is that some of the characters are comic book worthy bad. There's no attempt at subtlety or shades of grey; the bad guys are bad. It was slightly less obvious in the first novel, but is very striking here. It means you are obviously rooting for Briar and removes any form of conflict you might have.
That said, it was an enjoyable and fast paced read that brings you to the advent of the Princess Trials neatly, filling in some of the missing details that change your viewpoint of the events.
And so Briar finds herself on the run again, with both her life and her reputation on the line. President Heath is willing to go to any lengths to knock her out of the running and her husband, the President's son is certainly not going to make her life any easier. Along with a hefty amount of action, this novel also showcases the political intrigue behind the scenes giving a wider and deeper view into the world around Briar.
My only real complaint here is that some of the characters are comic book worthy bad. There's no attempt at subtlety or shades of grey; the bad guys are bad. It was slightly less obvious in the first novel, but is very striking here. It means you are obviously rooting for Briar and removes any form of conflict you might have.
That said, it was an enjoyable and fast paced read that brings you to the advent of the Princess Trials neatly, filling in some of the missing details that change your viewpoint of the events.
May 7, 2022
I love this world and the characters-so much happens in this book and there isn’t a moment of rest between the action! I love how strong the FMC is and watching her overcome her adversaries. I hope for more stories in this world, it is so well created! Readers who enjoy stories where the underdog FMCs stand up to the corrupt are going to LOVE this!
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