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The Wild Wynchesters #3
Nobody's Princess
A fun and feminist Regency romp from a master of the genre hailed as "a delight" by Bridgerton author Julia Quinn.
Nothing happens in London without Graham Wynchester knowing. His massive collection of intelligence is invaluable to his family's mission of aiding those most in need. So when he deciphers a series of coded messages in the scandal sheets, Graham's convinced he must come to a royal's rescue. But his quarry turns out not to be a princess at all... The captivating Kunigunde de Heusch is anything but a damsel in distress, and the last thing she wants is Graham's help.
All her life, Kuni trained alongside the fiercest Royal Guardsmen in her family, secretly planning to become her country's first Royal Guardswoman. This mission in London is a chance to prove herself worthy without help from a man, not even one as devilishly handsome as Graham. To her surprise, Graham believes in her dream as much as she does, which makes it harder to resist kissing him...and falling in love. But how can she risk her heart if her future lies an ocean away?
Nothing happens in London without Graham Wynchester knowing. His massive collection of intelligence is invaluable to his family's mission of aiding those most in need. So when he deciphers a series of coded messages in the scandal sheets, Graham's convinced he must come to a royal's rescue. But his quarry turns out not to be a princess at all... The captivating Kunigunde de Heusch is anything but a damsel in distress, and the last thing she wants is Graham's help.
All her life, Kuni trained alongside the fiercest Royal Guardsmen in her family, secretly planning to become her country's first Royal Guardswoman. This mission in London is a chance to prove herself worthy without help from a man, not even one as devilishly handsome as Graham. To her surprise, Graham believes in her dream as much as she does, which makes it harder to resist kissing him...and falling in love. But how can she risk her heart if her future lies an ocean away?
360 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 26, 2022
135 people are currently reading
4045 people want to read
About the author
Erica Ridley
130 books2,195 followersGet freebies and 99¢ deals at: https://ridley.vip
Erica Ridley is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of historical romance novels, including THE DUKE HEIST, featuring the Wild Wynchesters. Why seduce a duke the normal way, when you can accidentally kidnap one in an elaborately planned heist?
In the 12 Dukes of Christmas series, enjoy witty, heartwarming Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!
Two popular series, the Dukes of War and Rogues to Riches, feature roguish peers and dashing war heroes who find love amongst the splendor and madness of Regency England.
When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found eating couscous in Morocco, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.
Erica Ridley is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of historical romance novels, including THE DUKE HEIST, featuring the Wild Wynchesters. Why seduce a duke the normal way, when you can accidentally kidnap one in an elaborately planned heist?
In the 12 Dukes of Christmas series, enjoy witty, heartwarming Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!
Two popular series, the Dukes of War and Rogues to Riches, feature roguish peers and dashing war heroes who find love amongst the splendor and madness of Regency England.
When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found eating couscous in Morocco, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 382 reviews
July 18, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up
A lovely addition to the series, from the gorgeous cover through the final page. Very slow-burn, though worth the wait, as Kuni and Graham grow and change for the better through their love for one another. I also loved getting to see Kuni form close relationships with Graham's siblings—it worked very well without bogging down the plot or the romance.
Overall I love this series and wholeheartedly recommend it! Based on the ending, my guess is that Marjorie's book is next as she tracks down (and perhaaaaps falls in love with?) the counterfeiter mentioned in the epilogue. I can't wait!
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
A lovely addition to the series, from the gorgeous cover through the final page. Very slow-burn, though worth the wait, as Kuni and Graham grow and change for the better through their love for one another. I also loved getting to see Kuni form close relationships with Graham's siblings—it worked very well without bogging down the plot or the romance.
Overall I love this series and wholeheartedly recommend it! Based on the ending, my guess is that Marjorie's book is next as she tracks down (and perhaaaaps falls in love with?) the counterfeiter mentioned in the epilogue. I can't wait!
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 9, 2022
This book was kind of a miss for me. The characters seemed like caricatures. I understand you can have a character who has a passion or hobby, but if they don’t have any other characteristics it seems fake. For example, Elizabeth pulls her sword on Kunigunde the first time they meet. Elizabeth can love swords but it makes no sense that she would pull a sword on a person the first time she meets someone. Every character was like this. The plot was equally as unbelievable as the characters, so it was a struggle to get through this for me. I feel like there was so much potential. The characters could have been likeable with a little more depth.
Thanks NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for review.
Thanks NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for review.
July 26, 2022
4.5 rounded up.
Kunigunde dreams of being the first female Royal Guard. Much to her family's dismay.
Graham Winchester sees the striking beauty from his home country and believes her to be a princess in need of rescuing.
And thus their fates intertwine and we get to see these two slowly fall in love with each other, share some excellent banter, and have adventures through the city.
I adore the Winchester series and this was truly a delightful addition. Graham is impossible not to love, so wholesome and sweet. And Kuni is a strong woman who fiercely chases her dreams. This book was, in a word, charming.
They were a perfect match.
Excellent storytelling and beautifully diverse characters, this was such a fresh and unique historical romance I could not help but love.
I received an ARC for review.
Kunigunde dreams of being the first female Royal Guard. Much to her family's dismay.
Graham Winchester sees the striking beauty from his home country and believes her to be a princess in need of rescuing.
And thus their fates intertwine and we get to see these two slowly fall in love with each other, share some excellent banter, and have adventures through the city.
I adore the Winchester series and this was truly a delightful addition. Graham is impossible not to love, so wholesome and sweet. And Kuni is a strong woman who fiercely chases her dreams. This book was, in a word, charming.
They were a perfect match.
Excellent storytelling and beautifully diverse characters, this was such a fresh and unique historical romance I could not help but love.
I received an ARC for review.
November 23, 2022
It pains me that I didn't like Nobody's Princess, but this book is Erica Ridley's first real misstep for me in some time.
I have been waiting for Graham Wynchester's book every since I started reading this series, so the fact that I didn't enjoy it is a real let down. First of all, I knew to keep my sense of "historical accurate" way buried deep in my closet because this series takes a lot of liberties with British society and history. I really don't mind that much, especially when we get two Black MCs in a historical romance (YES), but nothing about this book even remotely rang true to any sort of reality. Each character, even the side characters, felt like a parody. No one felt real or acted real. They were like caricatures, which I didn't enjoy.
I also think this book lacked in chemistry between the two MCs. I didn't get much of a connection there, which was very disappointing.
The book felt too long, the characters didn't work, and I was really bored while reading it. I wish I could give it more stars, but I can't.
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I have been waiting for Graham Wynchester's book every since I started reading this series, so the fact that I didn't enjoy it is a real let down. First of all, I knew to keep my sense of "historical accurate" way buried deep in my closet because this series takes a lot of liberties with British society and history. I really don't mind that much, especially when we get two Black MCs in a historical romance (YES), but nothing about this book even remotely rang true to any sort of reality. Each character, even the side characters, felt like a parody. No one felt real or acted real. They were like caricatures, which I didn't enjoy.
I also think this book lacked in chemistry between the two MCs. I didn't get much of a connection there, which was very disappointing.
The book felt too long, the characters didn't work, and I was really bored while reading it. I wish I could give it more stars, but I can't.
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May 3, 2022
Thank you so much to Forever at Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
HELP I CAN'T STOP CRYING 😭 I love Graham and Kuni and the Wynchesters so much 🥺 This novel was so so adorable, and charming, and funny and it honestly just felt like a warm hug. I'm used to reading historical romances where the love interest is gruff and cocky but seeing Graham be a huge ball of sunshine was so heartwarming. He's like a little jumping bean with the way he scales walls, loses his shit regarding anything royalty related, and vows to save anyone who needs his help. He, along with all of the Wynchesters, made me giggle so much and I just love their dynamic.
Kuni was also such a great MC to follow and I love her arc of wanting to prove herself as a guardswoman while also feeling torn towards staying back in England and helping the Wynchesters, with whom she actually feels like she's making a difference. This is obviously a happy book with an HEA between Kuni and Graham but Chapters 42 & 43 had me full on sobbing. I don't think I've ever cried so hard regarding a historical romance before and I'm literally tearing up just thinking about those chapters again. Found family in romances always hit different 🥺 So excited for everyone to read this, especially if you loved the first two books in the series!
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HELP I CAN'T STOP CRYING 😭 I love Graham and Kuni and the Wynchesters so much 🥺 This novel was so so adorable, and charming, and funny and it honestly just felt like a warm hug. I'm used to reading historical romances where the love interest is gruff and cocky but seeing Graham be a huge ball of sunshine was so heartwarming. He's like a little jumping bean with the way he scales walls, loses his shit regarding anything royalty related, and vows to save anyone who needs his help. He, along with all of the Wynchesters, made me giggle so much and I just love their dynamic.
Kuni was also such a great MC to follow and I love her arc of wanting to prove herself as a guardswoman while also feeling torn towards staying back in England and helping the Wynchesters, with whom she actually feels like she's making a difference. This is obviously a happy book with an HEA between Kuni and Graham but Chapters 42 & 43 had me full on sobbing. I don't think I've ever cried so hard regarding a historical romance before and I'm literally tearing up just thinking about those chapters again. Found family in romances always hit different 🥺 So excited for everyone to read this, especially if you loved the first two books in the series!
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November 14, 2022
Endearing and very romantic. Both characters are intensely lovable and I just want to give them a big hug 🥺
My only issue was the build up of their physical relationship. I was actually every surprised to discover an explicit sex scene! Nothing long or too crazy but it did the job. However, while they’d kissed many times before this moment, I just never felt the heat from their relationship before the love scene. “A searing kiss that left them both breathless” is a pretty common theme in this book. We were told there were kisses but we were rarely shown in detail.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️.75/5
My only issue was the build up of their physical relationship. I was actually every surprised to discover an explicit sex scene! Nothing long or too crazy but it did the job. However, while they’d kissed many times before this moment, I just never felt the heat from their relationship before the love scene. “A searing kiss that left them both breathless” is a pretty common theme in this book. We were told there were kisses but we were rarely shown in detail.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️.75/5
August 5, 2022
3.5 stars for Nobody's Princess. We always love reading the madcap adventures of the Wynchester family a lot. This book leans in to the family's "Ocean's Eleven" style characterization: we've got the acrobatics/parkour information-gathering enthusiast (Graham), the art forger (Marjorie), the animal-obsessed trainer (Jakob), the master of disguise (Tommy).... and then we've got Kunigunde, who will become the newest member of the family (spoiler alert - she ends up marrying Graham), Independent Woman (tm) whose only goal is to follow in her father's footsteps and become a palace guard in Balcovia.
While we enjoyed the characters, the plot was a little all-over-the-place. Graham and Kuni are separated for much of the text, and even when they're in forced proximity (ten days of carriage travel and inns!) for some reason we don't get many longing glances or "accidental" touches... and not even one night of only one room. In other words, we think we would have liked this romance if only there had been more of it on page. Even though this seems like a book that would be right up our alley - low in angst, high in ridiculous energy - it just didn't hit the spot.
24-Word Summaries:
Laine: Graham thinks the AU of Bridgerton would solve all his problems. Kuni and Graham both need info on English security and don't work together.
Meg: Kuni is going to be a Balcovian Royal Guard, and she won’t let anything stop her - not even a hot, British, spy-adjacent, parkour-practicing hottie.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
While we enjoyed the characters, the plot was a little all-over-the-place. Graham and Kuni are separated for much of the text, and even when they're in forced proximity (ten days of carriage travel and inns!) for some reason we don't get many longing glances or "accidental" touches... and not even one night of only one room. In other words, we think we would have liked this romance if only there had been more of it on page. Even though this seems like a book that would be right up our alley - low in angst, high in ridiculous energy - it just didn't hit the spot.
24-Word Summaries:
Laine: Graham thinks the AU of Bridgerton would solve all his problems. Kuni and Graham both need info on English security and don't work together.
Meg: Kuni is going to be a Balcovian Royal Guard, and she won’t let anything stop her - not even a hot, British, spy-adjacent, parkour-practicing hottie.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
December 14, 2022
I loved the first two books in this series and really wanted to love this one, but the plot was just too slow for me. I loved how the characters were trying to find a spy threatening the royals, but I ended up bored through a lot of this one and it just didn't hit the spot for me.
July 4, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
Nobody's Princess is a rompy, slow-burn historical romance, continuing with another member of the Wynchester family (which I love). This time it's Graham, the dashing man who gathers intelligence, runs a spy network, and engages in parkour-like activities. He's also obsessed with royalty and is convinced he's found evidence of a secret princess in trouble. But the woman turns out to be Kunigunde, a dangerous woman collecting intelligence of her own, trying to prove her worth to become the first female royal guard in her homeland. But her brothers believe her incapable and are trying to track her down and return her to her place as companion of a princess. Graham helps her escape them and sparks fly between the two as Kunigunde becomes involved in the plots of the Wynchesters to improve conditions for factory workers.
Whew! If that sounds like a lot of plot, that's because it is. It's a fun book, but there's a lot going on and for me it came a bit at expense of the romance. I love the characters and found family, like the romance, and enjoyed how Ridley addresses themes of colonization, enslavement, class, and the existence of Black people in historical England. But I wanted more time spent on the burgeoning romance between this couple. I wasn't totally sold on the believability of the ending because I wanted more depth and longing between the two. The romantic scenes we do get are pretty good, but sometimes all the other things going on distract from the central relationship.
That said, I still liked the book and will absolutely continue with the series! I'm excited about the diversity in the Wynchester family- some Black characters, some queer characters, disabled characters... And they're all fun to read on the page. I received an advance copy of this book via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Nobody's Princess is a rompy, slow-burn historical romance, continuing with another member of the Wynchester family (which I love). This time it's Graham, the dashing man who gathers intelligence, runs a spy network, and engages in parkour-like activities. He's also obsessed with royalty and is convinced he's found evidence of a secret princess in trouble. But the woman turns out to be Kunigunde, a dangerous woman collecting intelligence of her own, trying to prove her worth to become the first female royal guard in her homeland. But her brothers believe her incapable and are trying to track her down and return her to her place as companion of a princess. Graham helps her escape them and sparks fly between the two as Kunigunde becomes involved in the plots of the Wynchesters to improve conditions for factory workers.
Whew! If that sounds like a lot of plot, that's because it is. It's a fun book, but there's a lot going on and for me it came a bit at expense of the romance. I love the characters and found family, like the romance, and enjoyed how Ridley addresses themes of colonization, enslavement, class, and the existence of Black people in historical England. But I wanted more time spent on the burgeoning romance between this couple. I wasn't totally sold on the believability of the ending because I wanted more depth and longing between the two. The romantic scenes we do get are pretty good, but sometimes all the other things going on distract from the central relationship.
That said, I still liked the book and will absolutely continue with the series! I'm excited about the diversity in the Wynchester family- some Black characters, some queer characters, disabled characters... And they're all fun to read on the page. I received an advance copy of this book via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
August 7, 2022
I’ve always been a bit apprehensive with this sub genre of romance because it’s normally SO white. As soon as I saw this cover with two Black leads, I decided to dive in.
I NEED more regency romances like this one.
This book had at it all for me: witty banter, palpable chemistry, angst, pining, steamy scenes, family drama, and strong women refusing to be anyone’s damsel in distress.
Both Kuni and Graham were fantastic main characters that challenged each other from day one. Being that they hail from different countries, it was also fascinating to see how wealthy Black people were treated in their respective societies.
Another aspect of this story that I loved was the relationships that Kuni built with Graham’s sisters. I’m always a sucker for found family, and I loved watching these incredibly powerful women get into shenanigans with each other.
This book has definitely changed my mind about reading regency romances, and now I’m on the hunt for more like this one.
Thank you Forever Books for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
I NEED more regency romances like this one.
This book had at it all for me: witty banter, palpable chemistry, angst, pining, steamy scenes, family drama, and strong women refusing to be anyone’s damsel in distress.
Both Kuni and Graham were fantastic main characters that challenged each other from day one. Being that they hail from different countries, it was also fascinating to see how wealthy Black people were treated in their respective societies.
Another aspect of this story that I loved was the relationships that Kuni built with Graham’s sisters. I’m always a sucker for found family, and I loved watching these incredibly powerful women get into shenanigans with each other.
This book has definitely changed my mind about reading regency romances, and now I’m on the hunt for more like this one.
Thank you Forever Books for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
November 10, 2024
When they all did the Wynchester salute on the docks I cried
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2022
FIRST ERICA RIDLEY BOOK THAT I HAVE NOT LIKED...
This was a super sad reading experience for me. I loved the first book of this series and was so excited to continue. But all my hopes were dashed pretty quickly and I struggled to finish this. One thing I did like, though, was the diversity of the characters. That was, despite everything else, refreshing.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Romance: For a romance novel, this had very little heat or chemistry. I really didn't feel a spark between Grahame and Kuni. There was just nothing that made me think romance in any way.
Characters: In the first book of this series I absolutely loved the Wynchester siblings. I loved their individuality and their quirks. But in this book it just became too much. It seemed that each character was reduced to their quirk, having absolutely nothing more to them, personality wise. It really hurt the book a great deal.
Pace: I am used to Ridley book being slightly shorter (such as the 12 Dukes of Christmas series) and I actually think Ridley is one of the few authors who does better with shorter books. This one just felt too long and drawn out.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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This was a super sad reading experience for me. I loved the first book of this series and was so excited to continue. But all my hopes were dashed pretty quickly and I struggled to finish this. One thing I did like, though, was the diversity of the characters. That was, despite everything else, refreshing.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Romance: For a romance novel, this had very little heat or chemistry. I really didn't feel a spark between Grahame and Kuni. There was just nothing that made me think romance in any way.
Characters: In the first book of this series I absolutely loved the Wynchester siblings. I loved their individuality and their quirks. But in this book it just became too much. It seemed that each character was reduced to their quirk, having absolutely nothing more to them, personality wise. It really hurt the book a great deal.
Pace: I am used to Ridley book being slightly shorter (such as the 12 Dukes of Christmas series) and I actually think Ridley is one of the few authors who does better with shorter books. This one just felt too long and drawn out.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow me for more book loving content!
Blog ✨ Facebook ✨ Instagram ✨ Twitter
Blog Post: 10 Criminally Underrated YA Books with an LGBTQ Twist
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September 26, 2022
Of course I'm going to dive into a romance series on book 3.
I really enjoyed this one! I love #ownvoices historical romances, and this one did not disappoint.
I really enjoyed this one! I love #ownvoices historical romances, and this one did not disappoint.
May 10, 2022
Nobody's Princess is the third book in the WIld Wynchesters series by Erica Ridley. This book is focused on Graham Wynchester, who was rescued from the circus and is now a sort of spymaster/extreme gossip. Kuni is from the Wynchester's adopted father's homeland of Balcovia. Kuni is a companion of the princess of Balcovia, with dreams of becoming a royal guard, following in the footsteps of her patrilineage, as well as being a trailblazer for young Balcovian women.
Kuni is on a reconnaissance mission of sorts when Graham tracks her down and offers her a safe haven from her brothers, two royal guards who look down on Kuni.
The Wynchester's are asked to help a family in a small mining town outside of Manchester in the clutches of the coal baron. Each book in the series thus far has a caper for the family and added love interest to work towards together, but mostly the two main characters. In this one, Graham and Kuni do not spend much one-on-one time together beyond deciding to have a sort of FWB relationship until Kuni has to leave. This series is fun, but the romance in this one was at a considerably lower level than in the first two. This one was an incredibly slow burn, and I just feel like there was not enough of a build-up of chemistry and longing. There was simply a realization that it was worth it to give up everything one had always dreamed of for the love you just realized you felt. Some of the writing was a little self-congratulatory for me as well--see my original thoughts after completing
Another tentative rating, this series is fun but less romance than one would expect, and as I said in a reading update it has ‘and then everyone clapped’ energy, as in there is LITERALLY a part in the book where Kuni and Elizabeth beat up a few men who are known to embarrass people in the street, and upon finishing the job “a cheer erupted from the gathering crowd”.
:/
I have more thoughts, need to gather etc.
Kuni is on a reconnaissance mission of sorts when Graham tracks her down and offers her a safe haven from her brothers, two royal guards who look down on Kuni.
The Wynchester's are asked to help a family in a small mining town outside of Manchester in the clutches of the coal baron. Each book in the series thus far has a caper for the family and added love interest to work towards together, but mostly the two main characters. In this one, Graham and Kuni do not spend much one-on-one time together beyond deciding to have a sort of FWB relationship until Kuni has to leave. This series is fun, but the romance in this one was at a considerably lower level than in the first two. This one was an incredibly slow burn, and I just feel like there was not enough of a build-up of chemistry and longing. There was simply a realization that it was worth it to give up everything one had always dreamed of for the love you just realized you felt. Some of the writing was a little self-congratulatory for me as well--see my original thoughts after completing
Another tentative rating, this series is fun but less romance than one would expect, and as I said in a reading update it has ‘and then everyone clapped’ energy, as in there is LITERALLY a part in the book where Kuni and Elizabeth beat up a few men who are known to embarrass people in the street, and upon finishing the job “a cheer erupted from the gathering crowd”.
:/
I have more thoughts, need to gather etc.
March 4, 2022
Now that I've finished the full book, I can say that it was everything I was hoping and more. I absolutely loved every second I spent with the Wynchesters, of course, and Kunigunde makes an excellent addition. I wish I could *be* a Wynchester, but reading about them is a close second. They are my favorite fictional family -- the Bridgertons don't even come close.
This book is fiercely feminist, with Kunigunde determined to be the first female Royal Guard of Balcovia, and equally determined to accept no help from anyone to get there. Over her time with the Wynchesters she learns the value of family, friendship, and that having people on your side to help isn't a weakness at all.
I really like how Erica Ridley took two characters with ambitions and goals that are diametrically opposed and brings them around to the same side eventually with the realization that it's ok to let go of long-held dreams in order to reach for something *better.* I also really appreciate that both parties here opted for new dreams over old ones. It felt very balanced.
I also really appreciate the many issues that are touched on here. They carry weight with the story and feel organic and not forced at all. Slavery, racial equality, feminism, the plight of factory workers, cruel factory owners, lazy aristocracy, the frustrating slowness of Parliament and legislative change, chronic illness, child labor, mistreated animals... I'm sure I missed some. The Wynchesters tackle all of these.
One of my favorite things about this book is how Kunigunde spends time with each of the Wynchester siblings and comes to appreciate them and care for them all. It's not just a romance between her and Graham, it involves the whole family. She has secret painting projects with Marjorie and they teach one another sign language and Balcovian. She terrorizes the university bullies with Elizabeth. She trains with Graham. She steals an antbear with Jacob, she watches Parliament with Chloe, she attends the reading circle with Philippa, she talks costumes with Tommy... and she opts to put off her own reconnaissance mission to help the Wynchesters on their mission to save a town of impoverished factory workers from their cruel factory owner.
The involvement of the Wynchester siblings doesn't diminish the romance between Kunigunde and Graham, which is terribly swoony. Even though they are both rather pig-headed about the whole thing, they do eventually end up on the same page and it was delightful going on that journey with them.
Elizabeth once again stole my heart in this book as my favorite secondary character, and I cannot wait to read her story because it is bound to be epic. And feature a LOT of swords.
*thanks to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for providing an e-arc for review.
----------------previous review of extended excerpt below----------------------
*This is a review of the extended excerpt (ch 1-4) available on NetGalley*
Firstly, that cover is absolutely *gorgeous* and I love it.
Secondly, ohmygodsIneedtherestofthisnow! Ahem. Secrets! Spies! Wynchesters! The first four chapters are absolutely and utterly delightful and I cannot wait to read the rest. Also I absolutely adore that Graham is intent on rescuing a damsel in distress while said damsel has no intention of being rescued. Fireworks are sure to follow. Also, Elizabeth and her swords make an appearance (yes!) as well as Tommy and Phillipa being delightfully themselves. I have been dying for the next Wynchester adventure and this one looks like it will be everything I'd hoped and more.
*thanks to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for providing this extended preview for review.
This book is fiercely feminist, with Kunigunde determined to be the first female Royal Guard of Balcovia, and equally determined to accept no help from anyone to get there. Over her time with the Wynchesters she learns the value of family, friendship, and that having people on your side to help isn't a weakness at all.
I really like how Erica Ridley took two characters with ambitions and goals that are diametrically opposed and brings them around to the same side eventually with the realization that it's ok to let go of long-held dreams in order to reach for something *better.* I also really appreciate that both parties here opted for new dreams over old ones. It felt very balanced.
I also really appreciate the many issues that are touched on here. They carry weight with the story and feel organic and not forced at all. Slavery, racial equality, feminism, the plight of factory workers, cruel factory owners, lazy aristocracy, the frustrating slowness of Parliament and legislative change, chronic illness, child labor, mistreated animals... I'm sure I missed some. The Wynchesters tackle all of these.
One of my favorite things about this book is how Kunigunde spends time with each of the Wynchester siblings and comes to appreciate them and care for them all. It's not just a romance between her and Graham, it involves the whole family. She has secret painting projects with Marjorie and they teach one another sign language and Balcovian. She terrorizes the university bullies with Elizabeth. She trains with Graham. She steals an antbear with Jacob, she watches Parliament with Chloe, she attends the reading circle with Philippa, she talks costumes with Tommy... and she opts to put off her own reconnaissance mission to help the Wynchesters on their mission to save a town of impoverished factory workers from their cruel factory owner.
The involvement of the Wynchester siblings doesn't diminish the romance between Kunigunde and Graham, which is terribly swoony. Even though they are both rather pig-headed about the whole thing, they do eventually end up on the same page and it was delightful going on that journey with them.
Elizabeth once again stole my heart in this book as my favorite secondary character, and I cannot wait to read her story because it is bound to be epic. And feature a LOT of swords.
*thanks to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for providing an e-arc for review.
----------------previous review of extended excerpt below----------------------
*This is a review of the extended excerpt (ch 1-4) available on NetGalley*
Firstly, that cover is absolutely *gorgeous* and I love it.
Secondly, ohmygodsIneedtherestofthisnow! Ahem. Secrets! Spies! Wynchesters! The first four chapters are absolutely and utterly delightful and I cannot wait to read the rest. Also I absolutely adore that Graham is intent on rescuing a damsel in distress while said damsel has no intention of being rescued. Fireworks are sure to follow. Also, Elizabeth and her swords make an appearance (yes!) as well as Tommy and Phillipa being delightfully themselves. I have been dying for the next Wynchester adventure and this one looks like it will be everything I'd hoped and more.
*thanks to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for providing this extended preview for review.
August 16, 2022
Graham Wynchester has made it his business to know absolutely everything that happens in London. He uses his network of informants to provide intelligence his family uses in their various missions to help those in need. When he notices coded messages printed in the gossip rags, Graham is certain they mean a royal princess is in need of rescue. Only, the woman he’s searching for turns out to be not a princess and not in distress, and not wanting any help from him at all.
Kunigunde de Heusch has trained her entire life alongside her country’s royal guardsmen with the hope of continuing her family’s noble legacy and becoming the first royal guardswoman. She has only one month in London to elude her brothers and prove herself capable and independent. She needs help from no one, not even charming, handsome Graham, but she’s shocked when he seems to genuinely believe in her. This support makes it even harder for Kuni to resist her attraction to Graham even knowing that her future is miles away from London.
This book had quite a bit going for it, but it also fell rather short in several key areas for me, perhaps the most significant of these being the romance itself. Graham and Kuni really didn’t spend that much time together on page, and what little they did have together usually had at least one of the Wynchester siblings also present or they were engaging in some sort of heist or combat training antics together. I just never really felt any spark between them, and they both fell a bit flat, so of course their romance did as well. They initially had these insurmountable differences in what they wanted for the future so their romance had a sense of forbidden futility that I actually did like, but only because this is a romance so you know you’re guaranteed a HEA despite how bleak things may look. That said, I do think things worked out for them so quickly that the ending felt very rushed, especially after such a long build up and an incredibly slow burn. In fact, so much of the book was down to this build up and executed at such a slow pace that if I hadn’t had the narration to turn to, I’m not sure how long it would’ve taken me to finish it. On the note of how slow this one burns, I also felt that the intimacy, when we finally got it, felt a bit lackluster to me and was very much one-sided in favor of Kuni’s pleasure. I know this is usually a good thing and it’s an odd thing to note, but it kind of left me feeling like Kuni was just using Graham and wasn’t really taking his feelings into consideration, and based on his inner monologues later, Graham felt much the same way. Since I was already struggling with the romance aspect here, that didn’t help at all and left me pretty disappointed after such a long build up to get there.
Beyond these issues, perhaps my biggest gripe was Kuni herself. She came off as very entitled and arrogant from the get-go and even as she was humbled by her experiences in England, that never really seemed to change. She was independent to a fault, often winding up getting in her own way. This was a fault she was aware of as well, but she never seemed to do much to change it, even near the end when she was coming to realize that asking for or accepting help doesn’t make you weak. She’d never been able to really rely on her family so this did make since, but I would’ve loved to see more development and change from Kuni as she met and spent time with the Wynchesters and saw a different way to live. Unfortunately, she just came off as rigid for me and unable to see any sort of middle ground for herself and Graham. She seemed to constantly be reiterating her goals to become a guardswoman, both in her dialogues and in her inner monologues, and it just became annoyingly repetitive after a while and didn’t help me like her when I was already struggling. She also seemed to have little depth as a character beyond this single-minded determination to achieve this goal and to do absolutely everything on her own so that made her even more frustrating and I couldn’t really figure out how she jived with Graham’s need to be acknowledged. Kuni definitely had a need to be included too, but she didn’t show that to anyone enough to make this a helpful trait for her characterization. I think perhaps what bothered me the most was that she spent much of the book with this goal in mind, living her life for others and what she thought they wanted for her, rather than what she wanted for herself. This is something I struggle with so much in my own life and it made me frustrated for Kuni as much as it frustrates me for myself. I just wanted to see her follow her own heart, and though of course she does, it’s a romance after all, this was pretty late in coming and dealt with too quickly for me to get much enjoyment or appreciation out of it.
Though I loved the found family aspect of the Wynchester siblings’ dynamic, as always, it definitely did feel like the family was portrayed as being even more eccentric than in previous books; each sibling was more or less reduced to just their particular quirky trait and not much else. It seemed like Graham and Kuni’s characters received similar treatment and I was just left wanting more depth, especially from such a long story. I’m still puzzled as to how a book full of such ridiculousness and high energy can still feel like such a painfully slow burn, but I do think it’s all down to how little time Graham and Kuni had together on page. Even during a twelve-day road trip we still didn’t get any forced proximity and virtually no alone time between these two. This aspect, coupled with Kuni’s general attitude and need to do everything on her own kind of killed the romance and cheer for me in this one.
I really did like the fun irreverence of this unique spin on a Regency romance, and I’ll look forward to more installments in the series even though this one wasn’t my favorite.
This narrator did an excellent job, especially with characters with different accents, and I hope to see her narrating future books in the series as well.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book and its audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Kunigunde de Heusch has trained her entire life alongside her country’s royal guardsmen with the hope of continuing her family’s noble legacy and becoming the first royal guardswoman. She has only one month in London to elude her brothers and prove herself capable and independent. She needs help from no one, not even charming, handsome Graham, but she’s shocked when he seems to genuinely believe in her. This support makes it even harder for Kuni to resist her attraction to Graham even knowing that her future is miles away from London.
This book had quite a bit going for it, but it also fell rather short in several key areas for me, perhaps the most significant of these being the romance itself. Graham and Kuni really didn’t spend that much time together on page, and what little they did have together usually had at least one of the Wynchester siblings also present or they were engaging in some sort of heist or combat training antics together. I just never really felt any spark between them, and they both fell a bit flat, so of course their romance did as well. They initially had these insurmountable differences in what they wanted for the future so their romance had a sense of forbidden futility that I actually did like, but only because this is a romance so you know you’re guaranteed a HEA despite how bleak things may look. That said, I do think things worked out for them so quickly that the ending felt very rushed, especially after such a long build up and an incredibly slow burn. In fact, so much of the book was down to this build up and executed at such a slow pace that if I hadn’t had the narration to turn to, I’m not sure how long it would’ve taken me to finish it. On the note of how slow this one burns, I also felt that the intimacy, when we finally got it, felt a bit lackluster to me and was very much one-sided in favor of Kuni’s pleasure. I know this is usually a good thing and it’s an odd thing to note, but it kind of left me feeling like Kuni was just using Graham and wasn’t really taking his feelings into consideration, and based on his inner monologues later, Graham felt much the same way. Since I was already struggling with the romance aspect here, that didn’t help at all and left me pretty disappointed after such a long build up to get there.
Beyond these issues, perhaps my biggest gripe was Kuni herself. She came off as very entitled and arrogant from the get-go and even as she was humbled by her experiences in England, that never really seemed to change. She was independent to a fault, often winding up getting in her own way. This was a fault she was aware of as well, but she never seemed to do much to change it, even near the end when she was coming to realize that asking for or accepting help doesn’t make you weak. She’d never been able to really rely on her family so this did make since, but I would’ve loved to see more development and change from Kuni as she met and spent time with the Wynchesters and saw a different way to live. Unfortunately, she just came off as rigid for me and unable to see any sort of middle ground for herself and Graham. She seemed to constantly be reiterating her goals to become a guardswoman, both in her dialogues and in her inner monologues, and it just became annoyingly repetitive after a while and didn’t help me like her when I was already struggling. She also seemed to have little depth as a character beyond this single-minded determination to achieve this goal and to do absolutely everything on her own so that made her even more frustrating and I couldn’t really figure out how she jived with Graham’s need to be acknowledged. Kuni definitely had a need to be included too, but she didn’t show that to anyone enough to make this a helpful trait for her characterization. I think perhaps what bothered me the most was that she spent much of the book with this goal in mind, living her life for others and what she thought they wanted for her, rather than what she wanted for herself. This is something I struggle with so much in my own life and it made me frustrated for Kuni as much as it frustrates me for myself. I just wanted to see her follow her own heart, and though of course she does, it’s a romance after all, this was pretty late in coming and dealt with too quickly for me to get much enjoyment or appreciation out of it.
Though I loved the found family aspect of the Wynchester siblings’ dynamic, as always, it definitely did feel like the family was portrayed as being even more eccentric than in previous books; each sibling was more or less reduced to just their particular quirky trait and not much else. It seemed like Graham and Kuni’s characters received similar treatment and I was just left wanting more depth, especially from such a long story. I’m still puzzled as to how a book full of such ridiculousness and high energy can still feel like such a painfully slow burn, but I do think it’s all down to how little time Graham and Kuni had together on page. Even during a twelve-day road trip we still didn’t get any forced proximity and virtually no alone time between these two. This aspect, coupled with Kuni’s general attitude and need to do everything on her own kind of killed the romance and cheer for me in this one.
I really did like the fun irreverence of this unique spin on a Regency romance, and I’ll look forward to more installments in the series even though this one wasn’t my favorite.
This narrator did an excellent job, especially with characters with different accents, and I hope to see her narrating future books in the series as well.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book and its audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
August 21, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
When Graham Wynchester discovers a missing princess through a series of coded messages in the papers, he knows he needs to use all of his knowledge to find her. But when it turns out that the person he's looking for is neither a princess, nor missing, he's quite surprised to meet the captivating Kunigunde de Heusch. Kuni has trained to be a Royal Guardswoman all of her life. Her family come from a long list of Guardsmen, and she would be the first female member of the group. But she needs to convince both her brothers, and her king, that she is right to move from the princess's lady in waiting, to a guard, with the blessing of the princess herself. Arriving in London prior to the royal party, she hopes to see all of the sites, and test their defences, before giving her notes to guards, and proving her worth. When her path crosses that of Graham, she's angry at his influence, but finds herself loving being a part of the Wynchester family, albeit temporarily, and her feelings for Graham are muddling the waters. Will Kuni be able to prove she is nobody's princess, and she needs no help?
With each book in this series, I find myself more and more jealous of the Wynchester family. Though they aren't blood, they are closer than anything, and would do whatever it takes to help those they care about. Graham was always a bit on an enigma in the previous books, but I loved learning more about him, and how he came to become a member of the family. His backstory was tragic, and it shaped him to be the caring, and focused man he was today. He hated seeing others suffering, and felt like it was his duty to help Kuni, though she clear could look after herself. Kuni was such a strong character, and I loved her from the get go. She had a vision of what she wanted in life, and she wasn't about to let her gender be the reason she failed. She could do everything her brothers could, and more, and she was out to prove it. The mystery to be solved in this book wasn't exactly a mystery, but it was great to see how the family came together to solve some of the issues in the northern mills, and how they embraced Kuni's help. I hope there are more books in this series, because I'm not done with the family, and there's plenty for the remaining siblings to do!
When Graham Wynchester discovers a missing princess through a series of coded messages in the papers, he knows he needs to use all of his knowledge to find her. But when it turns out that the person he's looking for is neither a princess, nor missing, he's quite surprised to meet the captivating Kunigunde de Heusch. Kuni has trained to be a Royal Guardswoman all of her life. Her family come from a long list of Guardsmen, and she would be the first female member of the group. But she needs to convince both her brothers, and her king, that she is right to move from the princess's lady in waiting, to a guard, with the blessing of the princess herself. Arriving in London prior to the royal party, she hopes to see all of the sites, and test their defences, before giving her notes to guards, and proving her worth. When her path crosses that of Graham, she's angry at his influence, but finds herself loving being a part of the Wynchester family, albeit temporarily, and her feelings for Graham are muddling the waters. Will Kuni be able to prove she is nobody's princess, and she needs no help?
With each book in this series, I find myself more and more jealous of the Wynchester family. Though they aren't blood, they are closer than anything, and would do whatever it takes to help those they care about. Graham was always a bit on an enigma in the previous books, but I loved learning more about him, and how he came to become a member of the family. His backstory was tragic, and it shaped him to be the caring, and focused man he was today. He hated seeing others suffering, and felt like it was his duty to help Kuni, though she clear could look after herself. Kuni was such a strong character, and I loved her from the get go. She had a vision of what she wanted in life, and she wasn't about to let her gender be the reason she failed. She could do everything her brothers could, and more, and she was out to prove it. The mystery to be solved in this book wasn't exactly a mystery, but it was great to see how the family came together to solve some of the issues in the northern mills, and how they embraced Kuni's help. I hope there are more books in this series, because I'm not done with the family, and there's plenty for the remaining siblings to do!
August 4, 2024
I'm very happy that Graham and Kuni are happily together now. Though I am annoyed that this book took me forever to get through, I'm glad it's over.
Real rating: 3.5
Real rating: 3.5
April 13, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Having never read a HR that included a H/h of color, I was delighted to have the opportunity to read “Nobody’s Princess” by Erica Ridley who I like as an author. This was the third in the series centered around Graham Wynchester . Graham is persistent with finding a missing princess in London and springs into action with making his dreams come true with meeting such a person of royalty. Then there is Kunigunde (Kuni) who is strong, independent and does not need rescuing as she can truly fend for herself. She wants to become the first Royal Guardswoman in Balcovia and does not want any interference from meddling individuals such as her brothers.
Graham and Kuni are likeable characters. There is mutual attraction but lacking some chemistry between the two to overpower secondary plots and antics in the story. Although there was a bit of tension, I was looking for more angst between the H/h to push the romance in the story as both characters are strong-willed individuals. The author did a nice job of addressing race in this story which I thought was refreshing from the typical HRs that I’ve read.
Having never read a HR that included a H/h of color, I was delighted to have the opportunity to read “Nobody’s Princess” by Erica Ridley who I like as an author. This was the third in the series centered around Graham Wynchester . Graham is persistent with finding a missing princess in London and springs into action with making his dreams come true with meeting such a person of royalty. Then there is Kunigunde (Kuni) who is strong, independent and does not need rescuing as she can truly fend for herself. She wants to become the first Royal Guardswoman in Balcovia and does not want any interference from meddling individuals such as her brothers.
Graham and Kuni are likeable characters. There is mutual attraction but lacking some chemistry between the two to overpower secondary plots and antics in the story. Although there was a bit of tension, I was looking for more angst between the H/h to push the romance in the story as both characters are strong-willed individuals. The author did a nice job of addressing race in this story which I thought was refreshing from the typical HRs that I’ve read.
June 10, 2022
3.5 stars
I struggled with this one because I love Erica Ridley's writing and her characters so much. And Kunigunde is one of the best heroines and ditto that for Graham! But I kept waiting for the plot. And waiting. And waiting. But it didn't ever really come. I'm someone who loves a no plot, just vibes kind of book but this one felt like the characters were also waiting for a plot if that makes sense?
5 stars to all of the characters
2 stars to nothing concrete in terms of plot ever happening
3.5 stars all together
I struggled with this one because I love Erica Ridley's writing and her characters so much. And Kunigunde is one of the best heroines and ditto that for Graham! But I kept waiting for the plot. And waiting. And waiting. But it didn't ever really come. I'm someone who loves a no plot, just vibes kind of book but this one felt like the characters were also waiting for a plot if that makes sense?
5 stars to all of the characters
2 stars to nothing concrete in terms of plot ever happening
3.5 stars all together
August 27, 2022
I seriously ADORE the Wynchesters and this third book in the series did not disappoint. This story features Graham, a man of color who goes through society doubly as an outcast - both because of his skin color and his lowly origins. He dreams of meeting a princess to help elevate/cement his worth and finds himself stumbling upon Kuni, an aspiring bodyguard from the far off country trying to prove herself.
I loved these characters and the found family Graham has with the Wynchesters. Even Kuni is unable to resist the Wynchester charm. The best part of these books for me are the diverse cast of characters and the way all the Wynchesters fight for social justice! In this book they band together to help improve the working conditions for women and child being exploited.
Great on audio this book is perfect for fans of Alyssa Cole or Beverly Jenkins. Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
I loved these characters and the found family Graham has with the Wynchesters. Even Kuni is unable to resist the Wynchester charm. The best part of these books for me are the diverse cast of characters and the way all the Wynchesters fight for social justice! In this book they band together to help improve the working conditions for women and child being exploited.
Great on audio this book is perfect for fans of Alyssa Cole or Beverly Jenkins. Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
July 24, 2022
Captivating, romantic, and fun!
Nobody’s Princess is an enticing, adventurous tale that sweeps you away to London in 1818 and into the life of Kunigunde de Heusch, a fierce, independent young woman who embarks on a mission to do whatever it takes to prove on her own that she deserves to be the first Royal Guardswoman in her home country of Balcovia, even if it means turning down the help of the resourceful, handsome Graham Wynchester who is definitely one of the most knowledgeable men in England.
The prose is warm and tender. The characters are charismatic, endearing, and supportive. And the plot is an amusing blend of family, friendship, mystique, attraction, action, adventure, hilarious hijinks, awkward situations, and unconditional love.
Nobody’s Princess is the third title in one of my all-time favourite historical romance series, The Wild Wynchesters. It’s a humorous, charming, entertaining read by Ridley with characters I couldn’t help but root for and a swoon-worthy ending that left me once again smitten, satisfied, and ecstatic that there’s more still to come!
Thank you to Forever and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Nobody’s Princess is an enticing, adventurous tale that sweeps you away to London in 1818 and into the life of Kunigunde de Heusch, a fierce, independent young woman who embarks on a mission to do whatever it takes to prove on her own that she deserves to be the first Royal Guardswoman in her home country of Balcovia, even if it means turning down the help of the resourceful, handsome Graham Wynchester who is definitely one of the most knowledgeable men in England.
The prose is warm and tender. The characters are charismatic, endearing, and supportive. And the plot is an amusing blend of family, friendship, mystique, attraction, action, adventure, hilarious hijinks, awkward situations, and unconditional love.
Nobody’s Princess is the third title in one of my all-time favourite historical romance series, The Wild Wynchesters. It’s a humorous, charming, entertaining read by Ridley with characters I couldn’t help but root for and a swoon-worthy ending that left me once again smitten, satisfied, and ecstatic that there’s more still to come!
Thank you to Forever and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2022
2,5 stars
August 8, 2022
This series is perfect in every way. Exactly the kind of historical romance I want to read, where all kinds of people get their HEAs and right society’s wrongs along the way. Strong Umbrella Academy vibes except the tone is upbeat and no family dysfunction.
May 13, 2022
Nobody’s Princess is the 3rd book in The Wild Wynchesters series, I’ve loved each book in this series so much and was so excited for this book!
Nothing happens in London without Graham Wynchester knowing. His massive collection of intelligence is invaluable to his family’s mission of aiding those most in need. When Graham deciphers a series of decoded messages in the scandal sheets, he’s convinced he must come to a royal’s rescue…his lifelong dream. He ends up meeting Kunigunde de Heusch instead and is equally as intrigued if she had been a princess.
Kuni is from Balcovia, the same place the Wynchesters beloved adopted father was from, and she is companion to the princess of her country. Kuni has always dreamed of becoming the first Royal Guardswoman after generations of the men in her family have served in the Royal Guard. I loved Kuni as a heroine, she’s so strong and determined! Seeing her immediately be embraced into the Wynchesters family was the best. I love all of the siblings in the family and seeing their interactions. Graham’s character is absolutely adorable. I loved his love for royalty and his childhood wish of wanting to be one himself. We do get to see the Wynchesters, and Kuni, take on some of their missions.
While I enjoyed all the family time and seeing Kuni seamlessly blend in, I did find the romance lacking in this book. Kuni and Graham, while both great characters on their own, they just don’t spend that much time alone together and I didn’t see any sparks flying. Their romance and declarations/feelings of love kind of felt like it came out of nowhere after what felt like a nonexistent buildup of any romance. After really enjoying the first book in the series and absolutely loving the second book (it was one of my fav reads of 2021), this romance was just not anywhere near on the same level sadly. But for the found family aspect, this series always delivers on those cozy, lovely feels!
Thank you to the publisher (Forever) for an e-ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own. Nobody’s Princess has a publish date of July 26, 2022.
Nothing happens in London without Graham Wynchester knowing. His massive collection of intelligence is invaluable to his family’s mission of aiding those most in need. When Graham deciphers a series of decoded messages in the scandal sheets, he’s convinced he must come to a royal’s rescue…his lifelong dream. He ends up meeting Kunigunde de Heusch instead and is equally as intrigued if she had been a princess.
Kuni is from Balcovia, the same place the Wynchesters beloved adopted father was from, and she is companion to the princess of her country. Kuni has always dreamed of becoming the first Royal Guardswoman after generations of the men in her family have served in the Royal Guard. I loved Kuni as a heroine, she’s so strong and determined! Seeing her immediately be embraced into the Wynchesters family was the best. I love all of the siblings in the family and seeing their interactions. Graham’s character is absolutely adorable. I loved his love for royalty and his childhood wish of wanting to be one himself. We do get to see the Wynchesters, and Kuni, take on some of their missions.
While I enjoyed all the family time and seeing Kuni seamlessly blend in, I did find the romance lacking in this book. Kuni and Graham, while both great characters on their own, they just don’t spend that much time alone together and I didn’t see any sparks flying. Their romance and declarations/feelings of love kind of felt like it came out of nowhere after what felt like a nonexistent buildup of any romance. After really enjoying the first book in the series and absolutely loving the second book (it was one of my fav reads of 2021), this romance was just not anywhere near on the same level sadly. But for the found family aspect, this series always delivers on those cozy, lovely feels!
Thank you to the publisher (Forever) for an e-ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own. Nobody’s Princess has a publish date of July 26, 2022.
June 13, 2022
~Update, final review from the ARC via Netgalley~
3.5 stars, rounding up since I really enjoyed how the story wrapped up!
I've now read the entire Wychester series so I was super excited about this book. I LOVED the storyline, Kuni is in England as part of her quest to become a Royal Guardswoman in her home country, which is where she meets Graham. Sadly, I found Kuni's character annoying when we read her inner monologue, *to avoid spoilers I will be vague*, she laments how much she wants to join the Royal Guard but lists all the drawbacks. THIS FITS IN THE PLOT. We needed some of this inner monologue, but for me, it went on way too long. This was my biggest turn-off for the book. Otherwise, as with this whole series, the siblings' interactions are hilarious and loveable. The mission was a very realistic and admirable one (I didn't see if it was based on a true time period/case but I like to think it may be!)
I enjoyed the book and look forward to the rest of the Wild Wynchesters series.
~Review from the extended preview on Netgalley~
I haven't read anything from The Wild Wynchesters series but I am excited to start. The whole series sounds so FUN. The book has an abrupt start so I think the previous novels would have helped me understand the beginning. It didn't take long to pick up the idea and the free fall into the Wynchester family did make me find the characters hilarious.
Graham's acrobatic feats make this story set up to be interesting. Kuni also sounds wildly interesting as we learn she's a trained fighter. I love the hint of instant attraction that is teased between them at first sight.
The plot does seem a bit outlandish, but in a way that seems like it will be highly entertaining!
I will update once I read the complete story!
3.5 stars, rounding up since I really enjoyed how the story wrapped up!
I've now read the entire Wychester series so I was super excited about this book. I LOVED the storyline, Kuni is in England as part of her quest to become a Royal Guardswoman in her home country, which is where she meets Graham. Sadly, I found Kuni's character annoying when we read her inner monologue, *to avoid spoilers I will be vague*, she laments how much she wants to join the Royal Guard but lists all the drawbacks. THIS FITS IN THE PLOT. We needed some of this inner monologue, but for me, it went on way too long. This was my biggest turn-off for the book. Otherwise, as with this whole series, the siblings' interactions are hilarious and loveable. The mission was a very realistic and admirable one (I didn't see if it was based on a true time period/case but I like to think it may be!)
I enjoyed the book and look forward to the rest of the Wild Wynchesters series.
~Review from the extended preview on Netgalley~
I haven't read anything from The Wild Wynchesters series but I am excited to start. The whole series sounds so FUN. The book has an abrupt start so I think the previous novels would have helped me understand the beginning. It didn't take long to pick up the idea and the free fall into the Wynchester family did make me find the characters hilarious.
Graham's acrobatic feats make this story set up to be interesting. Kuni also sounds wildly interesting as we learn she's a trained fighter. I love the hint of instant attraction that is teased between them at first sight.
The plot does seem a bit outlandish, but in a way that seems like it will be highly entertaining!
I will update once I read the complete story!
June 12, 2022
2.5 stars, rounded up
While I love the characters, Wynchester hijinks, and general set up once things get going I wanted more plot. This book's "heist" (fighting for labor rights at a particular factory) forces the love interests to be in different places doing different things, instead of pulling them together. And as lovely as the sibling cameos are I wanted more of our couple actually falling in love. A rare miss from Ridley.
Content notes:
Thanks to Forever for providing a review copy.
While I love the characters, Wynchester hijinks, and general set up once things get going I wanted more plot. This book's "heist" (fighting for labor rights at a particular factory) forces the love interests to be in different places doing different things, instead of pulling them together. And as lovely as the sibling cameos are I wanted more of our couple actually falling in love. A rare miss from Ridley.
Content notes:
Thanks to Forever for providing a review copy.
August 21, 2022
Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
The Wild Wynchesters are back and it’s Graham Wynchester at the center this time in Nobody’s Princess . Graham has a hunger for knowing everything, which is why he takes note of the gorgeous woman who seems to be gathering intelligence of her own around Mayfair. Kunigunde de Heusch is the companion of the Balcovian princess, but her true desire is to be a member of the Royal Guardsmen. Her time in England is her chance to prove herself the equal of her brothers, two of her country’s finest Royal Guardsmen . She’s taken aback by the charming, handsome Graham at first and the way he offers to help. Kuni doesn’t need anyone’s help, but she soon finds herself whisked away into the world of the Wynchesters. The more she learns about the unique family, the more she desires to become a part of it. But her lifelong dream isn’t something she can toss away, even for a family as welcoming as the Wynchesters and a man as tempting as Graham. The clock’s ticking until it’s time for Kuni to return to Balcovia, but it’s becoming harder for her to tear herself away.
Kuni is strong, smart, and stubborn. She has tried so hard to be a part of her family and has worked so hard to try for the chance at becoming a Royal Guardswoman – not just for herself but to be a role model for girls in Balcovia – that now the chance is almost within reach she cannot seem to see beyond it. And it’s clear from the start that although Kuni would be an amazing Guardswoman, she’d be an even better Wynchester. The quirky family welcomes Kuni immediately and she becomes involved in their quest to help people in need. Kuni is also entranced by Graham, the former circus performer turned intelligence gatherer. Graham has long been captivated by the idea of being acknowledged by royalty and Kuni is the closest he’s gotten to it. But fantasies aside, he’s drawn to the brave, determined woman. Their romance is an extremely slow burn but sweet.
I liked Nobody’s Princess but I’m sad to report it’s not my favorite Erica Ridley novel. The Wynchester family members have always been presented as unique, but fully-formed characters and in this story many of them felt reduced to one character trait. The family is such an important part of this book and the series that this brought down the book a bit. And though I enjoyed Kuni and Graham together, they were missing some of the spark I expect from Ridley’s couples. Things picked up near the end and the happily ever after was sweet, but it was slow going for the first part of the story. The book could be repetitive at times and it felt like much of the story was spent with the characters spinning their wheels until it was time to wrap things up – perhaps in a shorter format the story would have been stronger. As I said, I did like the ending and Graham with his good heart and dreams was a good match for Kuni who has a strong sense of purpose and a yearning heart. But this story never grabbed my attention the way the first two Wynchester books did and I just wanted a bit more. Still, I look forward to seeing more of Kuni and Graham as more Wynchester siblings find their happily ever afters.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Wild Wynchesters are back and it’s Graham Wynchester at the center this time in Nobody’s Princess . Graham has a hunger for knowing everything, which is why he takes note of the gorgeous woman who seems to be gathering intelligence of her own around Mayfair. Kunigunde de Heusch is the companion of the Balcovian princess, but her true desire is to be a member of the Royal Guardsmen. Her time in England is her chance to prove herself the equal of her brothers, two of her country’s finest Royal Guardsmen . She’s taken aback by the charming, handsome Graham at first and the way he offers to help. Kuni doesn’t need anyone’s help, but she soon finds herself whisked away into the world of the Wynchesters. The more she learns about the unique family, the more she desires to become a part of it. But her lifelong dream isn’t something she can toss away, even for a family as welcoming as the Wynchesters and a man as tempting as Graham. The clock’s ticking until it’s time for Kuni to return to Balcovia, but it’s becoming harder for her to tear herself away.
Kuni is strong, smart, and stubborn. She has tried so hard to be a part of her family and has worked so hard to try for the chance at becoming a Royal Guardswoman – not just for herself but to be a role model for girls in Balcovia – that now the chance is almost within reach she cannot seem to see beyond it. And it’s clear from the start that although Kuni would be an amazing Guardswoman, she’d be an even better Wynchester. The quirky family welcomes Kuni immediately and she becomes involved in their quest to help people in need. Kuni is also entranced by Graham, the former circus performer turned intelligence gatherer. Graham has long been captivated by the idea of being acknowledged by royalty and Kuni is the closest he’s gotten to it. But fantasies aside, he’s drawn to the brave, determined woman. Their romance is an extremely slow burn but sweet.
I liked Nobody’s Princess but I’m sad to report it’s not my favorite Erica Ridley novel. The Wynchester family members have always been presented as unique, but fully-formed characters and in this story many of them felt reduced to one character trait. The family is such an important part of this book and the series that this brought down the book a bit. And though I enjoyed Kuni and Graham together, they were missing some of the spark I expect from Ridley’s couples. Things picked up near the end and the happily ever after was sweet, but it was slow going for the first part of the story. The book could be repetitive at times and it felt like much of the story was spent with the characters spinning their wheels until it was time to wrap things up – perhaps in a shorter format the story would have been stronger. As I said, I did like the ending and Graham with his good heart and dreams was a good match for Kuni who has a strong sense of purpose and a yearning heart. But this story never grabbed my attention the way the first two Wynchester books did and I just wanted a bit more. Still, I look forward to seeing more of Kuni and Graham as more Wynchester siblings find their happily ever afters.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Read
January 18, 2023Nobody's Princess is another delightful Wynchester romp. My favorite parts were all of the most madcap ones, because I love the humor of those scenes.
There's actually a lot that's relatively serious here, with Kuni choosing between her duty and what she's actually realizing she really wants. Kuni's emotional journey is a powerful one. She wants to be a trailblazer, the first woman to join the Royal Guard of Balcovia, both to honor her family AND to serve as a path of helping open up possibilities for women coming after her. Letting that go for love is a huge ask, even if she's realizing that maybe there are other, better paths for her. The way she wrestles with her options feels very authentic.
In Kuni's plotline, I also really enjoyed the wrestling with racism. Balcovia is a fictional country which bans slavery early and accepts Black people as equals...mostly. Unpacking the lingering systemic racism is part of Kuni's journey, as well as dealing with being thrust into a completely different society. There's a lot of focus in this book on non-white people living in England during this period. The one thing I didn't like was the cutesy swears that Kuni uses constantly. I thought maybe it was characterization, but then her brother did one at the end too, so maybe it's a Balcovian thing? I just don't know, but I felt like one of the Wynchesters would have commented on it in a positive way. I wanted to know WHY Kuni was doing that, especially since they're like made-up or uncommon English words, which how would she even know them?
Meanwhile, Graham Wynchester has to reckon with his royalty-obession, and the way he has always romanticized it. This, for me, did not ring as true. I can definitely understand it a bit given how he grew up, but it did feel a bit excessive to me. His emotional arc isn't particularly solid either. He basically just has to realize that, which is valid, but not nearly as weighty as what Kuni is going through. And, given that Graham is the one we know going into the book, it feels slightly unbalanced for his arc to be so much smaller than hers.
As a couple, I do like them quite a bit, though I wasn't in the super emotional place I go when I'm super invested in a romance. That said, I adore the way that he really trusted her to be his equal. When she sees him basically parkouring up a tree, she asks to learn, and he immediately starts teaching her. His concerns for her safety don't make him baby her; he believes in her skills and trains her. They have a lot in common and do really seem like they would have a ton of fun together running a spy empire and parkouring around London.
This was a solid installment. Hoping for another highkey madcap adventure to come, because that's where my interests lie, but I did like this one!
There's actually a lot that's relatively serious here, with Kuni choosing between her duty and what she's actually realizing she really wants. Kuni's emotional journey is a powerful one. She wants to be a trailblazer, the first woman to join the Royal Guard of Balcovia, both to honor her family AND to serve as a path of helping open up possibilities for women coming after her. Letting that go for love is a huge ask, even if she's realizing that maybe there are other, better paths for her. The way she wrestles with her options feels very authentic.
In Kuni's plotline, I also really enjoyed the wrestling with racism. Balcovia is a fictional country which bans slavery early and accepts Black people as equals...mostly. Unpacking the lingering systemic racism is part of Kuni's journey, as well as dealing with being thrust into a completely different society. There's a lot of focus in this book on non-white people living in England during this period. The one thing I didn't like was the cutesy swears that Kuni uses constantly. I thought maybe it was characterization, but then her brother did one at the end too, so maybe it's a Balcovian thing? I just don't know, but I felt like one of the Wynchesters would have commented on it in a positive way. I wanted to know WHY Kuni was doing that, especially since they're like made-up or uncommon English words, which how would she even know them?
Meanwhile, Graham Wynchester has to reckon with his royalty-obession, and the way he has always romanticized it. This, for me, did not ring as true. I can definitely understand it a bit given how he grew up, but it did feel a bit excessive to me. His emotional arc isn't particularly solid either. He basically just has to realize that, which is valid, but not nearly as weighty as what Kuni is going through. And, given that Graham is the one we know going into the book, it feels slightly unbalanced for his arc to be so much smaller than hers.
As a couple, I do like them quite a bit, though I wasn't in the super emotional place I go when I'm super invested in a romance. That said, I adore the way that he really trusted her to be his equal. When she sees him basically parkouring up a tree, she asks to learn, and he immediately starts teaching her. His concerns for her safety don't make him baby her; he believes in her skills and trains her. They have a lot in common and do really seem like they would have a ton of fun together running a spy empire and parkouring around London.
This was a solid installment. Hoping for another highkey madcap adventure to come, because that's where my interests lie, but I did like this one!
July 7, 2022
4.5 Stars
Nothing happens in London without Graham Wynchester knowing. His massive collection of intelligence is invaluable to his family’s mission of aiding those most in need. So when he deciphers a series of coded messages in the scandal sheets, Graham’s convinced he must come to a royal’s rescue. The captivating Kunigunde de Heusch is anything but a damsel in distress, and the last thing she wants is Graham’s help. All her life, Kuni trained alongside the fiercest Royal Guardsmen in her family, secretly planning to become her country’s first Royal Guardswoman. This mission in London is a chance to prove herself worthy without help from a man, not even one as devilishly handsome as Graham.
Graham is the third Wynchester to find love & another well written delightful read. The characters are well portrayed & have depth. The Wynchesters are a wonderful family each of them very different with unique skills. I loved Graham & really liked Kuni, both had their dreams & definitely didn’t agree at the beginning but I loved how they gradually came together. I also loved how Kuni came to know & love the rest of the Wynchesters. A charming romance
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Nothing happens in London without Graham Wynchester knowing. His massive collection of intelligence is invaluable to his family’s mission of aiding those most in need. So when he deciphers a series of coded messages in the scandal sheets, Graham’s convinced he must come to a royal’s rescue. The captivating Kunigunde de Heusch is anything but a damsel in distress, and the last thing she wants is Graham’s help. All her life, Kuni trained alongside the fiercest Royal Guardsmen in her family, secretly planning to become her country’s first Royal Guardswoman. This mission in London is a chance to prove herself worthy without help from a man, not even one as devilishly handsome as Graham.
Graham is the third Wynchester to find love & another well written delightful read. The characters are well portrayed & have depth. The Wynchesters are a wonderful family each of them very different with unique skills. I loved Graham & really liked Kuni, both had their dreams & definitely didn’t agree at the beginning but I loved how they gradually came together. I also loved how Kuni came to know & love the rest of the Wynchesters. A charming romance
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
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