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Ruses of Lenore #1
Kingdom of Ruses
A Legacy of Deception
Viola Moreland's life is a well-orchestrated lie. For generations, her family has fabricated the existence of the Eternal Prince, a mysterious and powerful ruler who watches over the small kingdom of Lenore.
This practiced deception cracks when a nameless stranger stumbles across the truth and promptly assumes the Prince's identity. Unable to produce the genuine figurehead, the Moreland family—and Viola in particular—must cater to the imposter's whims or risk their web of carefully constructed ruses crumbling to pieces.
But as with any good lie, nothing is what it seems. Contrary to Viola's desires, this false Prince with his cryptic agenda may well be the only thing that stands between the true magic of Lenore and certain destruction.
Also includes "Prince of Ruses," a Ruses of Lenore short story
Viola Moreland's life is a well-orchestrated lie. For generations, her family has fabricated the existence of the Eternal Prince, a mysterious and powerful ruler who watches over the small kingdom of Lenore.
This practiced deception cracks when a nameless stranger stumbles across the truth and promptly assumes the Prince's identity. Unable to produce the genuine figurehead, the Moreland family—and Viola in particular—must cater to the imposter's whims or risk their web of carefully constructed ruses crumbling to pieces.
But as with any good lie, nothing is what it seems. Contrary to Viola's desires, this false Prince with his cryptic agenda may well be the only thing that stands between the true magic of Lenore and certain destruction.
Also includes "Prince of Ruses," a Ruses of Lenore short story
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2012
199 people are currently reading
945 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
March 10, 2016
In a kingdom where the eternal prince who rules is just a ruse kept up by the prime minister’s family (and most recently, Viola, our heroine), keeping the peace is a delicate thing. Enter a stranger who manages to take the place of the doppelganger the family uses, and Viola has her hands full.
A fun and intriguing read, with at least a couple twists I didn't see coming. I loved the prickly back and forth relationship Viola had with the "mysterious stranger." I do wish dear Viola had played more of an active role in the final culmination of events, and that one or two of the villains of the story had been a bit more well-developed, but I enjoyed the story quite thoroughly.
A fun and intriguing read, with at least a couple twists I didn't see coming. I loved the prickly back and forth relationship Viola had with the "mysterious stranger." I do wish dear Viola had played more of an active role in the final culmination of events, and that one or two of the villains of the story had been a bit more well-developed, but I enjoyed the story quite thoroughly.
November 10, 2021
The Hero is a creep
Likes
The world building is detailed
The characters are developed
Dislikes
The Hero coerces, blackmails and intimidates the heroine sexually by kissing her without her consent, violating her boundaries physically, scaring her until she drops important objects for his own entertainment, taking control of the objects by “saving“ them after he terrifies her into dropping them, threatening to kiss her if she doesn’t let him order her around, trying to discover if he can coerce her into sex due to her position in the house by asking if she is s concubine, lying about her by saying she has sex with him, manipulating other people into agreeing his behavior isn’t really that bad by acting differently in public than when he makes her fear she will be sexually attacked or harassed by him in private, gaslighting her repeatedly about whether he has been emotionally abusive, pretending his abuse is justified due to her ignorance, and dismissing her emotional pain by pretending his verbal and emotional abuse, public humiliation and slander of her is ok because he’s “teasing.” Only a crazy person shoots flaming arrows at their neighbor and then says, “I was only joking” ( Proverbs 26: 18-19). Sexually intimidation by threatening to force a part of foreplay (like kissing or touching) on someone to coerce them to do what you want is stemming from motivations about power and control, just like rape, and it’s abusive. It’s not fun and it’s not a joke and it’s not okay to downplay the heroine’s real fear as over reacting (classic verbal abuser tactic). It is not okay for the Hero to say it’s her fault he is emotional torturing her because she reacts when she’s placed in emotional pain. Blaming her for his abusive behavior is a classic abuser tactic. Then, he apologizes for being abusive (honeymoon period) before repeating some type of coercion, blackmail, privacy violation, shaming her for things she doesn’t know, or using physical intimidation (cycle of abuse).
All of the above are red flags for emotional and mental abuse. They may not be easy to recognize to someone without training or experience and the Hero’s actions are still dangerous to enough to devastate any relationship. The Hero is constantly trying to keep the heroine off balance, undermining her confidence and her right to set boundaries over her property and her body so she is unsure of herself or her right to believe she has integrity, or her ability to retain control of her body and her right to give consent over whether she may be touched in a sexual manner. If the other reviewers have said the Hero is mean, then it’s probably because he acts like a predator. The fact that the author describes the actions so clearly leads me to believe she has observed the behavior in her own relationships or relationships with other people and simply doesn’t recognize coercive emotional control tactics or verbally abusive behavior. I think she was trying to introduce frustration, the emotion most often confused for love. Unfortunately, the result is a Hero that I can’t cheer for, because he’s horrible.The heroine didn’t overreact. She didn’t react strongly enough to set boundaries or save herself from an unhealthy relationship, which is really disappointing.
I don’t recommend the book because emotional abuse and physical intimidation and gaslighting are not fun to read about and they are not romantic.
Likes
The world building is detailed
The characters are developed
Dislikes
The Hero coerces, blackmails and intimidates the heroine sexually by kissing her without her consent, violating her boundaries physically, scaring her until she drops important objects for his own entertainment, taking control of the objects by “saving“ them after he terrifies her into dropping them, threatening to kiss her if she doesn’t let him order her around, trying to discover if he can coerce her into sex due to her position in the house by asking if she is s concubine, lying about her by saying she has sex with him, manipulating other people into agreeing his behavior isn’t really that bad by acting differently in public than when he makes her fear she will be sexually attacked or harassed by him in private, gaslighting her repeatedly about whether he has been emotionally abusive, pretending his abuse is justified due to her ignorance, and dismissing her emotional pain by pretending his verbal and emotional abuse, public humiliation and slander of her is ok because he’s “teasing.” Only a crazy person shoots flaming arrows at their neighbor and then says, “I was only joking” ( Proverbs 26: 18-19). Sexually intimidation by threatening to force a part of foreplay (like kissing or touching) on someone to coerce them to do what you want is stemming from motivations about power and control, just like rape, and it’s abusive. It’s not fun and it’s not a joke and it’s not okay to downplay the heroine’s real fear as over reacting (classic verbal abuser tactic). It is not okay for the Hero to say it’s her fault he is emotional torturing her because she reacts when she’s placed in emotional pain. Blaming her for his abusive behavior is a classic abuser tactic. Then, he apologizes for being abusive (honeymoon period) before repeating some type of coercion, blackmail, privacy violation, shaming her for things she doesn’t know, or using physical intimidation (cycle of abuse).
All of the above are red flags for emotional and mental abuse. They may not be easy to recognize to someone without training or experience and the Hero’s actions are still dangerous to enough to devastate any relationship. The Hero is constantly trying to keep the heroine off balance, undermining her confidence and her right to set boundaries over her property and her body so she is unsure of herself or her right to believe she has integrity, or her ability to retain control of her body and her right to give consent over whether she may be touched in a sexual manner. If the other reviewers have said the Hero is mean, then it’s probably because he acts like a predator. The fact that the author describes the actions so clearly leads me to believe she has observed the behavior in her own relationships or relationships with other people and simply doesn’t recognize coercive emotional control tactics or verbally abusive behavior. I think she was trying to introduce frustration, the emotion most often confused for love. Unfortunately, the result is a Hero that I can’t cheer for, because he’s horrible.The heroine didn’t overreact. She didn’t react strongly enough to set boundaries or save herself from an unhealthy relationship, which is really disappointing.
I don’t recommend the book because emotional abuse and physical intimidation and gaslighting are not fun to read about and they are not romantic.
April 6, 2021
1.5 stars - can't decide if I want to round up or down.
It had an intriguing premise and I initially had fun reading it, although I realised early on I have to really suspend my disbelief with it. It's like a fairytale, in a way. You just have to accept things that are extremely unlikely, if not impossible. Like making a nation believe it's ruled by someone who doesn't exist (even with the use of some magic).
However, it had none of the magical fairytale atmosphere and soon turned into a children's book in terms of writing and especially dialogue. And yet, the characters were YA in age (but not behaviour) and there was a romance element that probably wouldn't have appealed to children. So who was the target audience?
I couldn't enjoy it, and while I wanted to read something light and uncomplicated, I didn't expect it to be this simplistic and superficial, bordering on silly.
It had a few interesting ideas and I'll just accept that it wasn't for me, so I'll round it up.
It had an intriguing premise and I initially had fun reading it, although I realised early on I have to really suspend my disbelief with it. It's like a fairytale, in a way. You just have to accept things that are extremely unlikely, if not impossible. Like making a nation believe it's ruled by someone who doesn't exist (even with the use of some magic).
However, it had none of the magical fairytale atmosphere and soon turned into a children's book in terms of writing and especially dialogue. And yet, the characters were YA in age (but not behaviour) and there was a romance element that probably wouldn't have appealed to children. So who was the target audience?
I couldn't enjoy it, and while I wanted to read something light and uncomplicated, I didn't expect it to be this simplistic and superficial, bordering on silly.
It had a few interesting ideas and I'll just accept that it wasn't for me, so I'll round it up.
November 18, 2021
3.5 stars. I enjoyed this MUCH more on the re-read.
2.5 stars first read.
This ends with a lot of dangling ends so be aware. There is a sequel, but I don't know if I'll read it.
There's a lot to like here, but I was troubled by the behavior of the prince to the 16-year-heroine in this. Waaaaay too much inappropriate and heavy-duty flirting, touching, and kissing without her consent. I don't believe his age was ever stated, but he came across as older and more experienced (i.e. adult and predatory). This crossed the line from age-appropriately romantic to squicky and distinctly inappropriate for me. He did get better about asking towards the end. (I'm old, so...YMMV. With current events, I'm noticing this stuff more than usual.)
And, wow, her parents were lax! Loving, but entirely naive, clueless, and not protective of their kids in a dangerous milieu.
Also, why all this keeping secrets from each other for silly (or no) reasons? Also, one unanswered question:
TBH, I don't think the author intended it this way...
2.5 stars first read.
This ends with a lot of dangling ends so be aware. There is a sequel, but I don't know if I'll read it.
There's a lot to like here, but I was troubled by the behavior of the prince to the 16-year-heroine in this. Waaaaay too much inappropriate and heavy-duty flirting, touching, and kissing without her consent. I don't believe his age was ever stated, but he came across as older and more experienced (i.e. adult and predatory). This crossed the line from age-appropriately romantic to squicky and distinctly inappropriate for me. He did get better about asking towards the end. (I'm old, so...YMMV. With current events, I'm noticing this stuff more than usual.)
And, wow, her parents were lax! Loving, but entirely naive, clueless, and not protective of their kids in a dangerous milieu.
Also, why all this keeping secrets from each other for silly (or no) reasons? Also, one unanswered question:
TBH, I don't think the author intended it this way...
December 31, 2021
Changed to 2* on latest re-read - basically the hero is a bit of a prat in this one and the forced kiss at the start definitely reads like sexual assault now. The next two books are fantastic though!
******
Intriguing premise, though I could have done without the kiss forced onto Viola near the beginning of the book. However, the sparks of originality in the story kept me turning the pages, and the ending meant that I immediately one-clicked the sequel (which really hit all the right buttons for me!).
******
Intriguing premise, though I could have done without the kiss forced onto Viola near the beginning of the book. However, the sparks of originality in the story kept me turning the pages, and the ending meant that I immediately one-clicked the sequel (which really hit all the right buttons for me!).
May 28, 2016
I loved the bickering between the lead characters. This book featured my favorite trope: super practical girl somehow ends up the companion of an unusual wizard/magician.
Also really appreciated that there was no love triangle despite the book being young adult fantasy.
Also really appreciated that there was no love triangle despite the book being young adult fantasy.
February 25, 2021
Delightful!
This was such a fun and engaging read. For generations the Moreland family have been serving the Enteral Prince of Lenore. Only, the Prince doesn't exist. But the Moreland family uses magic and lots of trickery to keep up the pretense that he is. Until one day a nameless stranger comes in and messes everything up!
Viola Moreland was a likable character, she is loyal and feisty, but is also very kind and selfless. One thing I would tweak is her age (she's 16). Her behavior and storyline felt more like she should at least be a young adult, so I basically just pictured her as 20. The Prince was hilarious, I loved his character. I loved the fun flirty banter between them and thought their relationship was a lot of fun.
At times there were a couple phrases or things that seemed a little contemporary, but overall, it was just a fun setting and I liked the worldbuilding and the new mythology created for the story. The ending is abrupt, it really could have used a bit more. While things are resolved, it still has that cliffhanger ending which I'm not a huge fan of. Luckily, the next book is already downloaded and ready for me to dive into.
Ms. Stradling is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine.
PS Could really use a better cover! I mean, if I hadn't read some of her other books and loved them so much, I probably would have skipped over this one because of the cover.
Content Rated PG
Romance: Kissing (G Rated)
Language: None
Violence: Mild, nothing overly descriptive or graphic
This was such a fun and engaging read. For generations the Moreland family have been serving the Enteral Prince of Lenore. Only, the Prince doesn't exist. But the Moreland family uses magic and lots of trickery to keep up the pretense that he is. Until one day a nameless stranger comes in and messes everything up!
Viola Moreland was a likable character, she is loyal and feisty, but is also very kind and selfless. One thing I would tweak is her age (she's 16). Her behavior and storyline felt more like she should at least be a young adult, so I basically just pictured her as 20. The Prince was hilarious, I loved his character. I loved the fun flirty banter between them and thought their relationship was a lot of fun.
At times there were a couple phrases or things that seemed a little contemporary, but overall, it was just a fun setting and I liked the worldbuilding and the new mythology created for the story. The ending is abrupt, it really could have used a bit more. While things are resolved, it still has that cliffhanger ending which I'm not a huge fan of. Luckily, the next book is already downloaded and ready for me to dive into.
Ms. Stradling is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine.
PS Could really use a better cover! I mean, if I hadn't read some of her other books and loved them so much, I probably would have skipped over this one because of the cover.
Content Rated PG
Romance: Kissing (G Rated)
Language: None
Violence: Mild, nothing overly descriptive or graphic
March 4, 2022
Kindle Unlimited 2/?
A fun lighthearted (and sometimes slightly on the ridiculous side) book. It straddles the line between MG and YA, which makes it hard to place exactly where I would categorize it. Probably YA, on the whole.
While the idea of the Prince being a ruse the whole time could make for some good fun, it could be farfetched to truly believe the Moreland family got away with it all these years.
I did not always appreciate or enjoy all the interactions between the Prince and Viola. Frequently, their banter and interactions were amusing or well-played, but every once in a while, they were almost verging on creepy territory, mostly on the Prince's side. I think this is actually made worse by the fact that it's unclear how old he is/is supposed to appear and it's easy to read into that he is much older than Viola's 16 years. There was nothing actually wrong, per se, but his mannerisms and sometimes actions could give me pause.
The ending kinda left me a bit underwhelmed, as a lot of the action seemed to tie up very quickly, but I'm somewhat interested in continuing the series, especially since it's a different MC. I liked Viola and the Moreland family but I don't see there being a whole lot more to tell from their perspective.
A fun lighthearted (and sometimes slightly on the ridiculous side) book. It straddles the line between MG and YA, which makes it hard to place exactly where I would categorize it. Probably YA, on the whole.
While the idea of the Prince being a ruse the whole time could make for some good fun, it could be farfetched to truly believe the Moreland family got away with it all these years.
I did not always appreciate or enjoy all the interactions between the Prince and Viola. Frequently, their banter and interactions were amusing or well-played, but every once in a while, they were almost verging on creepy territory, mostly on the Prince's side. I think this is actually made worse by the fact that it's unclear how old he is/is supposed to appear and it's easy to read into that he is much older than Viola's 16 years. There was nothing actually wrong, per se, but his mannerisms and sometimes actions could give me pause.
The ending kinda left me a bit underwhelmed, as a lot of the action seemed to tie up very quickly, but I'm somewhat interested in continuing the series, especially since it's a different MC. I liked Viola and the Moreland family but I don't see there being a whole lot more to tell from their perspective.
February 28, 2021
Kind of a mini glom sparked by The Heir and The Spare. It will not be a huge glom (though I will read the sequel to this) because I did not like it as much.
It is very charming very often and the set up is really interesting, fascinating, a political ruse kept for generations. But the romance plot is both clumsy and a bit creepy, some parts feel like filler and just like they do not belong (I get this is a very small state but there is this very small town feeling to some of the actions. Also Cassian and Laelia, not moving the plot along at all and both were trope characters, and in Laelia's case a particularly annoying one.
It is very charming very often and the set up is really interesting, fascinating, a political ruse kept for generations. But the romance plot is both clumsy and a bit creepy, some parts feel like filler and just like they do not belong (I get this is a very small state but there is this very small town feeling to some of the actions. Also Cassian and Laelia, not moving the plot along at all and both were trope characters, and in Laelia's case a particularly annoying one.
May 9, 2017
Loved it!
Although I wasn't impressed by the cover of Kingdom of Ruses, I liked the description enough to buy it. I accidentally started reading it after work today...and didn't stop until I finished it! This is an excellent story: lovely characters and and an unusual premise. I just loved it and was very disappointed when it ended. I certainly wish there had been at least a couple more pages to leave me a little less 'gasping for more'. Now I must check out Kate Strading and see what else she has written!
Although I wasn't impressed by the cover of Kingdom of Ruses, I liked the description enough to buy it. I accidentally started reading it after work today...and didn't stop until I finished it! This is an excellent story: lovely characters and and an unusual premise. I just loved it and was very disappointed when it ended. I certainly wish there had been at least a couple more pages to leave me a little less 'gasping for more'. Now I must check out Kate Strading and see what else she has written!
December 23, 2021
Books like this one should have a big colorful label on the cover identifying them as YA, so people who don't like YA don't end up buying such a book by mistake. People like me.
I thought the premise was interesting, but the story didn't hold my attention at all. I did finish it, but it was a struggle. Definitely not for me, although it might work for teenage readers who haven't read much fantasy before.
I thought the premise was interesting, but the story didn't hold my attention at all. I did finish it, but it was a struggle. Definitely not for me, although it might work for teenage readers who haven't read much fantasy before.
May 23, 2022
I can proudly say that Kate Stradling is one of my favorite authors. This is just my 3rd book by her, and I can't believe that she is underrated. She and her books deserve so much love and appreciation.
Coming to the book, the plot is unique and well thought out; this is evident in the execution. Not only did the story flow smoothly, but it also had a quality that gently pulled you in. I did not feel like I was reading a book; rather, it felt like I was present in that world experiencing the emotions and events.
The characters were marvelous! Viola was an amazing protagonist, and I could relate to her on a deeper level. The thing I liked about her was that she valued her family above everything else. She was loyal and did her duty well. She also wasn't a swooning maiden, who couldn't think straight when a man was around but behaved in a mature way despite her young age.
The romance was subtle. There weren't many swoon-worthy dialogues or grand gestures. In fact, the protagonists constantly indulged in witty banter and serious arguments, but I knew they loved each other. This was one of the relationships where their actions spoke volumes; the silent caring and selfless gestures were heartwarming.
There were some twists in the story and dangers the characters had to face. It was taken care of flawlessly. The magic was also interesting, especially the details about the nifaran.
Though the next book focuses on a different character, I hope Viola makes an appearance in the coming books. I can't wait to get into those. This book is a must-read for all fantasy lovers.
Coming to the book, the plot is unique and well thought out; this is evident in the execution. Not only did the story flow smoothly, but it also had a quality that gently pulled you in. I did not feel like I was reading a book; rather, it felt like I was present in that world experiencing the emotions and events.
The characters were marvelous! Viola was an amazing protagonist, and I could relate to her on a deeper level. The thing I liked about her was that she valued her family above everything else. She was loyal and did her duty well. She also wasn't a swooning maiden, who couldn't think straight when a man was around but behaved in a mature way despite her young age.
The romance was subtle. There weren't many swoon-worthy dialogues or grand gestures. In fact, the protagonists constantly indulged in witty banter and serious arguments, but I knew they loved each other. This was one of the relationships where their actions spoke volumes; the silent caring and selfless gestures were heartwarming.
There were some twists in the story and dangers the characters had to face. It was taken care of flawlessly. The magic was also interesting, especially the details about the nifaran.
Though the next book focuses on a different character, I hope Viola makes an appearance in the coming books. I can't wait to get into those. This book is a must-read for all fantasy lovers.
February 27, 2021
I feel like I got to the end of a book that wasn’t actually finished!! What happened to the ending?? This book had an amazing pace and the story was so unique, but the ending?! WTHeck!! Loved the characters and the world the author created. But the ending is a buzz kill. It just ends and your left wanting... an epilogue... anything!
If only it had a swoon worthy ending this would of been five stars.
If only it had a swoon worthy ending this would of been five stars.
April 30, 2021
**BIG SPOILERS** - End of book spoilers and everything. Read at own risk. -
3/5 stars.
I liked this book, but there were some glaring issues, which is the reason I've knocked two stars from this.
The first major problem is the hero and his lack of waiting for consent. The moment they meet, he asks her for water that she cannot give him. When she refuses, he kisses her full on the mouth without any consent. Then, he says "maybe you should have let me drink the water." Not long after, he demands she hand him an object she doesn't want to. He essentially says "it seems you've forgotten what happened last time you refused me." To which she immediately - fearfully it seemed - gave him the object.
This is writen in a way that makes it seem like the hero is not intending to be this way - almost like he's clueless. Just an innocent, joyful flirt. But it honestly feels a lot like sexual harrasment/assault. This is waved away later when we find out she's his "counterpart" and that he was "drawn to her" so apparently this makes it okay.
The other big issue is ironically, quite the opposite. At the end of the book when we're supposed to get the big payoff... it just drops. At the second to last chapter, the heroine seems to be making progress with the hero, and asks to use his real name. He allows her to, and in that moment of emotional tension where you'd normally expect a kiss or something - nothing happens. Instead, he dissapears the next morning with no goodbye.
Okay, no big. It will happen in the last chapter right?
But instead, we find out he's been gone for 6 months. And then when he returns, we get one or two pages of her realizing it's him in a room full of people, and then you know what he does? He states publicly that as Prince he's decided to take a consort, looks suggestively at her - and then the end.
No kiss. No conversation about why he left, or any conversation at all for that matter. No payoff at all of the whole romance. We see her call him by his name only once. And then he basically claimed her as his consort without consent again!!
What the heck man?! I felt cheated by this honestly. I was expecting a lot more from the payoff, especially after what he did in the beginning. Now I should mention there's a second book - but it seems it follows a different main character. I have no idea if we get any proper payoff of this book's romance in it or not.
Otherwise, the book was okay. The end left some dangling threads, the villains were shallow and we barely saw them, and the writing felt a bit stilted and weak, especially Viola's journal. I didn't like the brother Charles much right from the beginning, when he waved away her concern over the hero showing up and then laughed about her with him. And Viola herself just didn't do it for me much - she needed a more distinct personality I think.
All in all, not an awful book, but had a lot of issues.
3/5 stars.
I liked this book, but there were some glaring issues, which is the reason I've knocked two stars from this.
The first major problem is the hero and his lack of waiting for consent. The moment they meet, he asks her for water that she cannot give him. When she refuses, he kisses her full on the mouth without any consent. Then, he says "maybe you should have let me drink the water." Not long after, he demands she hand him an object she doesn't want to. He essentially says "it seems you've forgotten what happened last time you refused me." To which she immediately - fearfully it seemed - gave him the object.
This is writen in a way that makes it seem like the hero is not intending to be this way - almost like he's clueless. Just an innocent, joyful flirt. But it honestly feels a lot like sexual harrasment/assault. This is waved away later when we find out she's his "counterpart" and that he was "drawn to her" so apparently this makes it okay.
The other big issue is ironically, quite the opposite. At the end of the book when we're supposed to get the big payoff... it just drops. At the second to last chapter, the heroine seems to be making progress with the hero, and asks to use his real name. He allows her to, and in that moment of emotional tension where you'd normally expect a kiss or something - nothing happens. Instead, he dissapears the next morning with no goodbye.
Okay, no big. It will happen in the last chapter right?
But instead, we find out he's been gone for 6 months. And then when he returns, we get one or two pages of her realizing it's him in a room full of people, and then you know what he does? He states publicly that as Prince he's decided to take a consort, looks suggestively at her - and then the end.
No kiss. No conversation about why he left, or any conversation at all for that matter. No payoff at all of the whole romance. We see her call him by his name only once. And then he basically claimed her as his consort without consent again!!
What the heck man?! I felt cheated by this honestly. I was expecting a lot more from the payoff, especially after what he did in the beginning. Now I should mention there's a second book - but it seems it follows a different main character. I have no idea if we get any proper payoff of this book's romance in it or not.
Otherwise, the book was okay. The end left some dangling threads, the villains were shallow and we barely saw them, and the writing felt a bit stilted and weak, especially Viola's journal. I didn't like the brother Charles much right from the beginning, when he waved away her concern over the hero showing up and then laughed about her with him. And Viola herself just didn't do it for me much - she needed a more distinct personality I think.
All in all, not an awful book, but had a lot of issues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2021
AH. This was just the book I needed!
It was so sweet and adorable. Stradling's stories and writing are more captivating than I gave them credit for. Not to mention she somehow makes many kinds of relationships be fleshed out organically. And this book was all that plus really intriguing worldbuilding.
You know, I really liked this book. However, may I just say I didnt much like the hero? I mean, I could have forgiven him for his initial meeting with the heroine and shamelessly flirting with her. But he read her JOURNAL!! And as the owner of such a notebook myself, I probably have overdramatized his offense in my head. Needless to say, I disliked him and how he brushed it off and kind of wanted to throw a bucket filled with rocks at him. But I don't think my disapproval of the man (nor my pity for his male friend) deserves to lower my rating for an otherwise excellent and lighthearted read. Just a testament how Stradling really brings characters to life.
So yeah, I loved the story and its magic systems. Definite recommend. :)
Content: nothing too violent. Some blood because of reasons, some kissing because of reasons
It was so sweet and adorable. Stradling's stories and writing are more captivating than I gave them credit for. Not to mention she somehow makes many kinds of relationships be fleshed out organically. And this book was all that plus really intriguing worldbuilding.
You know, I really liked this book. However, may I just say I didnt much like the hero? I mean, I could have forgiven him for his initial meeting with the heroine and shamelessly flirting with her. But he read her JOURNAL!! And as the owner of such a notebook myself, I probably have overdramatized his offense in my head. Needless to say, I disliked him and how he brushed it off and kind of wanted to throw a bucket filled with rocks at him. But I don't think my disapproval of the man (nor my pity for his male friend) deserves to lower my rating for an otherwise excellent and lighthearted read. Just a testament how Stradling really brings characters to life.
So yeah, I loved the story and its magic systems. Definite recommend. :)
Content: nothing too violent. Some blood because of reasons, some kissing because of reasons
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2021
I disliked this story so much that was so glad when I was done. The premise is interesting and it could've been really enjoyable, but the characters ruined it for me.
The protagonist, Viola, felt kind of wooden to me, I didnt get a sense of her as a real person. Her diary entries and inner thoughts often read kind of stilted to me. Her brothers were ok, I just like them because they were the least annoying characters in this book. Sadly, Viola didn't have any female friends, and the only significant female character, Laelia, disliked her because she had a crush on the prince *eyeroll*.
I really hated the prince. He started with kissing the protagonist on the mouth without her consent and kept being pushy, annoying and needlessly jealous throughout the whole book. He's the main reason I'm rating this so low, every time he appeared in the story I felt annoyed or angry. I had to laugh when he asked Viola halfway through the book if he was a constant nuisance to her and she answered that she didn't know him well enough for that, when she had been annoyed and angry herself pretty much everytime she's been around him. And so, I didn't like the romance plot nor did I understand why Viola would fall in love with him. But maybe I'm just overly sensitive to pushy annoying jerks.
For anyone else who disliked this book, I would still recommend trying to read this author's other books. I loved all the other books by her that I've read so far (The Legendary Inge, The Heir and the Spare, Soot and Slipper).
The protagonist, Viola, felt kind of wooden to me, I didnt get a sense of her as a real person. Her diary entries and inner thoughts often read kind of stilted to me. Her brothers were ok, I just like them because they were the least annoying characters in this book. Sadly, Viola didn't have any female friends, and the only significant female character, Laelia, disliked her because she had a crush on the prince *eyeroll*.
I really hated the prince. He started with kissing the protagonist on the mouth without her consent and kept being pushy, annoying and needlessly jealous throughout the whole book. He's the main reason I'm rating this so low, every time he appeared in the story I felt annoyed or angry. I had to laugh when he asked Viola halfway through the book if he was a constant nuisance to her and she answered that she didn't know him well enough for that, when she had been annoyed and angry herself pretty much everytime she's been around him. And so, I didn't like the romance plot nor did I understand why Viola would fall in love with him. But maybe I'm just overly sensitive to pushy annoying jerks.
For anyone else who disliked this book, I would still recommend trying to read this author's other books. I loved all the other books by her that I've read so far (The Legendary Inge, The Heir and the Spare, Soot and Slipper).
June 21, 2016
I really want to give this book a 5, but I can't because of the ending. However, there is a sequel, which I consider vital reading because it gives you the closure missing here. So basically my advice is to buy both this and Tournament of Ruses together and then read them back to back.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the magic, and the world, and I'm probably going to read everything Kate Stradling has ever written very shortly.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the magic, and the world, and I'm probably going to read everything Kate Stradling has ever written very shortly.
December 17, 2021
I enjoyed this book but be prepared, the ending will have you saying "that's it?!?!" The ending was going so well but then ends pretty abruptly. There is another book though, so hopefully that will leave satisfaction in place of the unsatisfied feeling I am currently harboring.
January 30, 2024
This was a reread for me - and a bit startling. I remembered it as a rather ho-hum book that was an okay way to pass a few hours. A little fun, nothing groundbreaking. You know, the kinds of books that are essential and beloved and inglorious. Uh, officially revising my opinion.
The main character seems too young for the events of the story - she’s sixteen - and the male lead is an erratic and menacing mess. He constantly violates any boundary she might have whether that’s assaulting her on their first meeting or “flirting” with her, which is regrettably shorthand in this context for threatening to force a kiss on her again or invading her space in other ways. Also, he reads her diary? No respect for that man. Run girl. That was just the tip of that damn iceberg. He’s toxic.
Felt uncomfortable with the family dynamics too - the dad, being the ringleader, instructs all of his children to maintain elaborate political ruses/lies and to keep their mother in the dark about absolutely everything. She’s trustworthy and steady and could be a huge assest - we are never given a good reason for her exclusion but I’m left to conclude that is some asinine
stupidity about her not really being one of them since she doesn’t have Moreland blood in her veins. They’d rather include an eight year old in all this. Who knows why? I don’t know why. I’m upset about that.
The prime minister/father figure is even deeper in his lies too. Never bothered to tell his wife, or for that matter his daughter, that our protagonist actually died as a baby. Yeah, it’s some fantasy nonsense - she’s camped out somewhere between zombie or vampire. Anyway, the prime minister seems to love to keep all of the women in his life utterly ignorant about information they absolutely have the right to. He just isolates his daughter instead. A lot of his actions in the story are docketed under fatherly love and we’re supposed to feel only positive things about this fellow. I don’t. Not to mention he doesn’t care a wit about his daughters reputation. He lets her do thousands of things, all the time, that cast her in a dubious light in their society - particularly when it comes to that effing creepy “prince”. If he’s going to be written as a protective character at least mix that with a little wisdom and societal savvy.
This book is not unique in it’s many shortcomings, but I was disappointed. Perhaps these elements could have coalesced into an interesting read if they had been given subtlety, gravity and dignity - there was none. We were spoon fed opinions about paper characters and hardly given a glimpse of the world. I wish I could say there was a redeeming feature but it seemed quite bleak. There wasn’t a character to love or a world to be lost in.
What a sad reunion this was.
The main character seems too young for the events of the story - she’s sixteen - and the male lead is an erratic and menacing mess. He constantly violates any boundary she might have whether that’s assaulting her on their first meeting or “flirting” with her, which is regrettably shorthand in this context for threatening to force a kiss on her again or invading her space in other ways. Also, he reads her diary? No respect for that man. Run girl. That was just the tip of that damn iceberg. He’s toxic.
Felt uncomfortable with the family dynamics too - the dad, being the ringleader, instructs all of his children to maintain elaborate political ruses/lies and to keep their mother in the dark about absolutely everything. She’s trustworthy and steady and could be a huge assest - we are never given a good reason for her exclusion but I’m left to conclude that is some asinine
stupidity about her not really being one of them since she doesn’t have Moreland blood in her veins. They’d rather include an eight year old in all this. Who knows why? I don’t know why. I’m upset about that.
The prime minister/father figure is even deeper in his lies too. Never bothered to tell his wife, or for that matter his daughter, that our protagonist actually died as a baby. Yeah, it’s some fantasy nonsense - she’s camped out somewhere between zombie or vampire. Anyway, the prime minister seems to love to keep all of the women in his life utterly ignorant about information they absolutely have the right to. He just isolates his daughter instead. A lot of his actions in the story are docketed under fatherly love and we’re supposed to feel only positive things about this fellow. I don’t. Not to mention he doesn’t care a wit about his daughters reputation. He lets her do thousands of things, all the time, that cast her in a dubious light in their society - particularly when it comes to that effing creepy “prince”. If he’s going to be written as a protective character at least mix that with a little wisdom and societal savvy.
This book is not unique in it’s many shortcomings, but I was disappointed. Perhaps these elements could have coalesced into an interesting read if they had been given subtlety, gravity and dignity - there was none. We were spoon fed opinions about paper characters and hardly given a glimpse of the world. I wish I could say there was a redeeming feature but it seemed quite bleak. There wasn’t a character to love or a world to be lost in.
What a sad reunion this was.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2020
albeit short, this was an enjoyable and light book to read. it’s a breath of fresh air compared to all the heavy fantasy books i’ve been reading lately. i loved the world-building and found it very original. i love viola and her relationship with the impostor prince aka william aka will was humourous and delighted me. any book with a character who is sarcastic, arrogant and is called will automatically gets a good rating from me :D
May 2, 2021
Some fun fantasy concepts. The plot and characters reminded me of "Warbreaker" and "Twilight" rolled into one.
My biggest problem with this author is that it seems relationships can only build on misunderstandings, ie, the heroine convinces herself not to like someone because he couldn't possibly like her, and then, oh! He actually does.
...And it also feels a little like a hallmark movie, where the first handsome character we meet is going to be the lucky future Mr. Heroine.
My biggest problem with this author is that it seems relationships can only build on misunderstandings, ie, the heroine convinces herself not to like someone because he couldn't possibly like her, and then, oh! He actually does.
...And it also feels a little like a hallmark movie, where the first handsome character we meet is going to be the lucky future Mr. Heroine.
April 17, 2017
Because I had never read this author before, I preceded the buying of this book by reading several online reviews. I looked over the positive and negative and came away with one worry: Many reviewers found the love interest "mean" or "annoying." I've read enough romance books (or books with some romance in them) to know that I HATE the rude, thoughtless hero-type. The only truly broody/rude love interest I can put up with is Mr. Rochester from Jane Eyre (and maybe Pride and Prejudice's Mr. Darcy). I can understand building two character's relationship by having them start off a little bickery, but I cannot wade through a relationship where there is no real evidence of love and the characters are disrespectful of each other. I was worried because of some of the reviews that this book would be a case of the characters "love" being far closer to a contentious "hate." For this reason, I took a while to purchase this book.
Finally, the intriguing story line and positive reviews won me over and I decided to give it a chance. I'm so glad I did! I really like the relationships in this book, and I love the theme of bonding, both the overt and subtle throughout the story. The symbiotic-or-parasitic relationship between wielder, nature, and magic was fun and inventive and I was absolutely thrilled with the little surprise of how the villains were defeated in the end. To address the two main characters, Viola and The fake Prince, I really liked the basics of Viola's personality, she's practical, kind,loyal, and self-sacrificing, but I thought she could be a little too mean and cynical (especially considering that reviewers called her love-interest mean. I believe if I were to go through the whole book and take note of who said things in a "cruel" manner that Viola's count would far surpass TFP's). I do, however, think Viola's thoughts and actions were believable considering the circumstances she was in, the strain she was under, and the fact that she is barely sixteen and not quite finished developing as a person. I found TFP's rudeness to not actually be very rude, and I think that maybe some people rely a little too much on Viola's strained sixteen year old interpretations of his actions. To me, he isn't so much rude as he is the type who enjoys teasing people, especially people he likes. There were only two instances where I believe he crossed a line, one in invading personal space and the other in invading privacy, but other than that, his jokes and prodding were pretty gentle and good natured. I also think it's worth sharing that Viola gets her kicks and punches in, and so he at least suffers for any unhappiness he causes and it's kind of funny. I really hope that the author decides to write another book where we can see the relationship and characters develop more. I especially would want to see Viola do something big! (*Minor spoiler* The book ends on a great note that's both funny and sweet, if a bit predictable, but I really wish there had been a declaration of love moment rather than just the implication. Just one of those little things I prefer =) ).
If you want a quick synopsis: The land of Lenore has long been fabled as a place of magic, protected by a capricious and strange Eternal Prince. Unfortunately, the actual magic of the land is running out and the "Eternal Prince" is a fabrication created to keep the greedy neighboring countries away. Only one family bears the burden of the truth about the Eternal Prince, the Morelands. The Morelands have been Prime Ministers of Lenore for generations, and they have been keeping up the ruse of the magical protector of a Prince for just as long. Young Viola Moreland is the current Prime Minister's daughter, and she and her brothers head the task of keeping everyone under the illusion that the Prince is real. To do this, the siblings use magic, but their magic is running out! Just at this critical time, Viola meets a stranger who refuses to give his name. The stranger worms his way into the palace, onto the throne, and into Viola's families confidence! This is very upsetting to Viola, who, because of her upbringing and responsibilities, is extremely cynical and suspicious (who wouldn't be when the entire kingdom rests on your shoulders) and also just doesn't like the Fake Prince with no name. She especially doesn't like his habit of singling her out to tease and spend time with. Knowing what is a stake for the country, the Fake Prince promises that he will only stay a short while. He has only come to research in the Prince's great library a mythical creature called the Nefara. While there, the Prince also takes the time to teach Viola how to bring back and cultivate the magic in the land. He unearths several new secrets and changes the way Viola sees the world forever.
This book is very well written. I think it is funny and engaging with very in-depth themes if you stop and think about them. This is a new favorite author of mine and now my only problem is to decide which book of hers I should pick up next! (Really. I only have enough spending money for one more of her books! Which should I read?)
Finally, the intriguing story line and positive reviews won me over and I decided to give it a chance. I'm so glad I did! I really like the relationships in this book, and I love the theme of bonding, both the overt and subtle throughout the story. The symbiotic-or-parasitic relationship between wielder, nature, and magic was fun and inventive and I was absolutely thrilled with the little surprise of how the villains were defeated in the end. To address the two main characters, Viola and The fake Prince, I really liked the basics of Viola's personality, she's practical, kind,loyal, and self-sacrificing, but I thought she could be a little too mean and cynical (especially considering that reviewers called her love-interest mean. I believe if I were to go through the whole book and take note of who said things in a "cruel" manner that Viola's count would far surpass TFP's). I do, however, think Viola's thoughts and actions were believable considering the circumstances she was in, the strain she was under, and the fact that she is barely sixteen and not quite finished developing as a person. I found TFP's rudeness to not actually be very rude, and I think that maybe some people rely a little too much on Viola's strained sixteen year old interpretations of his actions. To me, he isn't so much rude as he is the type who enjoys teasing people, especially people he likes. There were only two instances where I believe he crossed a line, one in invading personal space and the other in invading privacy, but other than that, his jokes and prodding were pretty gentle and good natured. I also think it's worth sharing that Viola gets her kicks and punches in, and so he at least suffers for any unhappiness he causes and it's kind of funny. I really hope that the author decides to write another book where we can see the relationship and characters develop more. I especially would want to see Viola do something big! (*Minor spoiler* The book ends on a great note that's both funny and sweet, if a bit predictable, but I really wish there had been a declaration of love moment rather than just the implication. Just one of those little things I prefer =) ).
If you want a quick synopsis: The land of Lenore has long been fabled as a place of magic, protected by a capricious and strange Eternal Prince. Unfortunately, the actual magic of the land is running out and the "Eternal Prince" is a fabrication created to keep the greedy neighboring countries away. Only one family bears the burden of the truth about the Eternal Prince, the Morelands. The Morelands have been Prime Ministers of Lenore for generations, and they have been keeping up the ruse of the magical protector of a Prince for just as long. Young Viola Moreland is the current Prime Minister's daughter, and she and her brothers head the task of keeping everyone under the illusion that the Prince is real. To do this, the siblings use magic, but their magic is running out! Just at this critical time, Viola meets a stranger who refuses to give his name. The stranger worms his way into the palace, onto the throne, and into Viola's families confidence! This is very upsetting to Viola, who, because of her upbringing and responsibilities, is extremely cynical and suspicious (who wouldn't be when the entire kingdom rests on your shoulders) and also just doesn't like the Fake Prince with no name. She especially doesn't like his habit of singling her out to tease and spend time with. Knowing what is a stake for the country, the Fake Prince promises that he will only stay a short while. He has only come to research in the Prince's great library a mythical creature called the Nefara. While there, the Prince also takes the time to teach Viola how to bring back and cultivate the magic in the land. He unearths several new secrets and changes the way Viola sees the world forever.
This book is very well written. I think it is funny and engaging with very in-depth themes if you stop and think about them. This is a new favorite author of mine and now my only problem is to decide which book of hers I should pick up next! (Really. I only have enough spending money for one more of her books! Which should I read?)
October 21, 2020
A fun and enjoyable read. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the Ruses series.
November 21, 2020
Delightful fairy tale
Delightful fairy tale of sorts. Viola and the nameless prince develop an intriguing relationship, with multiple surprising twists. I loved it.
Delightful fairy tale of sorts. Viola and the nameless prince develop an intriguing relationship, with multiple surprising twists. I loved it.
October 5, 2025
I started a bit unimpressed.
It does require some suspension of disbelief. I'm not really a fan of the scene where we meet Will.
But Kate won again. She always does.* There were a couple of lines where the magic oh-so-briefly flickered, but it came back almost immediately. I'm still thinking about some of the writing, characterizations, and twists. None of her plots are the same. Her characters aren't cut and paste. And I come away a little better from most of them because her characters are imperfect but trying their best. And there's usually a family. I miss families in YA lit.
4.5 stars.
*She's sitting at a solid 4 star rating. That is rare for a contemporary indie author and me.
It does require some suspension of disbelief. I'm not really a fan of the scene where we meet Will.
But Kate won again. She always does.* There were a couple of lines where the magic oh-so-briefly flickered, but it came back almost immediately. I'm still thinking about some of the writing, characterizations, and twists. None of her plots are the same. Her characters aren't cut and paste. And I come away a little better from most of them because her characters are imperfect but trying their best. And there's usually a family. I miss families in YA lit.
4.5 stars.
*She's sitting at a solid 4 star rating. That is rare for a contemporary indie author and me.
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January 13, 2021Content warning: sexual harrassment/assault
DNF. I read the sequel last month and really enjoyed it, and I've been loving a lot of Stradling's fairytale retellings lately, so I was excited to try Kingdom of Ruses.
That excitement died pretty quickly. The man who is meant to be the protagonist's love interest is such a dirtbag I couldn't stand continuing the story and watching them inevitably fall in love. The first time they meet he asks her to draw him water from a well, and when she refuses he kisses her without consent. Forcefully. Ick. And then later, he wants her to do something else for him which she is again unwilling to do. And he tells her that he'll kiss her if she doesn't do it. So she quickly acquiesces and obeys his initial request. And she notes that he momentarily looks disappointed (the implication being that he'd wanted to kiss her again).
I can't stand characters who ignore consent, and this guy is horrible. He literally manipulates the protagonist by threatening to assault her if she doesn't do what he wants. I won't ignore that and I don't want to continue reading. It's a shame, because I do like Stradling's other works.
DNF. I read the sequel last month and really enjoyed it, and I've been loving a lot of Stradling's fairytale retellings lately, so I was excited to try Kingdom of Ruses.
That excitement died pretty quickly. The man who is meant to be the protagonist's love interest is such a dirtbag I couldn't stand continuing the story and watching them inevitably fall in love. The first time they meet he asks her to draw him water from a well, and when she refuses he kisses her without consent. Forcefully. Ick. And then later, he wants her to do something else for him which she is again unwilling to do. And he tells her that he'll kiss her if she doesn't do it. So she quickly acquiesces and obeys his initial request. And she notes that he momentarily looks disappointed (the implication being that he'd wanted to kiss her again).
I can't stand characters who ignore consent, and this guy is horrible. He literally manipulates the protagonist by threatening to assault her if she doesn't do what he wants. I won't ignore that and I don't want to continue reading. It's a shame, because I do like Stradling's other works.
September 26, 2021
Rating- 3/5
I just wish that the last chapter was longer and there wan an epilogue.
I would not call that an ending, I would call it lazy work.
I think that while Kate does write good books, her endings are haphazard. (The heir and spare too had a weird ending)
If the novel is as stand alone as the author claims then all loose threads must tied. I felt that whatever she could tie, she did and the rest she left it. Whatever may happen, may happen.
I also detected a hesitance for writing romantic parts.
Also there was a bit of fat-shaming in this book. Don't know if that was the author'a view or just the character's. But since it was such a minor details- not even relevant to any characters, I think it could have been left out unless the author wanted to voice out her own views (which of course, is disturbing and disappointing).
Although this book does deserve 4 stars as an overall effort, I am more than disappointed because of the above points.
I just wish that the last chapter was longer and there wan an epilogue.
I would not call that an ending, I would call it lazy work.
I think that while Kate does write good books, her endings are haphazard. (The heir and spare too had a weird ending)
If the novel is as stand alone as the author claims then all loose threads must tied. I felt that whatever she could tie, she did and the rest she left it. Whatever may happen, may happen.
I also detected a hesitance for writing romantic parts.
Also there was a bit of fat-shaming in this book. Don't know if that was the author'a view or just the character's. But since it was such a minor details- not even relevant to any characters, I think it could have been left out unless the author wanted to voice out her own views (which of course, is disturbing and disappointing).
Although this book does deserve 4 stars as an overall effort, I am more than disappointed because of the above points.
December 2, 2020
Clunky dialogue and flat characters
I don't think this book was horrible, because I did manage to finish, but it was a close call. The writing style could use quite a bit of work, as the writer tells everything instead of showing it. The dialogue is clunky, and the characters feel flat. Their behaviors are inconsistent, and a lot of what they do doesn't feel well thought out. It was an interesting premise that just didn't pan out for me.
I don't think this book was horrible, because I did manage to finish, but it was a close call. The writing style could use quite a bit of work, as the writer tells everything instead of showing it. The dialogue is clunky, and the characters feel flat. Their behaviors are inconsistent, and a lot of what they do doesn't feel well thought out. It was an interesting premise that just didn't pan out for me.
May 19, 2014
First read from this author and I was pleasantly surprised to find the characters fun and amusing, as well as the magic of this world defined and intriguing. It certainly took a turn into the fantasy I was not expecting and as a result I spent much of my evening devouring this book.
I hope to run into this magical world again. And my interest in Kate Sterling's other works has heightened.
I hope to run into this magical world again. And my interest in Kate Sterling's other works has heightened.
August 25, 2016
Absolutely loved this book. It had magic,mystery, flawed yet compelling leads and best of all no insta-love! I know there is a sequel with a different heroine but I want a third book going back to the perspectives ofur Viola and her fake prince. Its been awhile since I openly squealed while reading a story and this book had so many squee worthy moments!
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