What do you think?
Rate this book
The Royals of Acuniel #2
The Love of a Princess
Princess Adelaide of Acuniel forsook her dreams of a love match the day she agreed to a marriage treaty with the Crown Prince of Trilaria. While nothing like her childhood expectations, her life with Prince Miles is simple, comfortable. But then a plague ravages Trilaria, leaving her a widow and the kingdom without a ruler, and her new life is thrown into chaos. Her mother-in-law begs her to return to her father’s house, but Adelaide refuses, pledging to stand by the newly widowed queen and the kingdom she has come to love. No matter what the future may hold.
Two potential heirs are found in the twin nephews of the late king, but only one can ascend the throne. Upon the discovery of critical information, Adelaide’s mother-in-law contrives a daring plan to have the right man chosen. Acting on this plan could cost Adelaide everything… Or it could open the door to a future beyond her wildest imaginings.
“The Love of a Princess” is a loose retelling of the Biblical Book of Ruth, and is a sequel to Ashton’s debut novel, “The Peasant Queen: an Esther Retelling”. While some characters connect, either book can be read as a stand alone.
Two potential heirs are found in the twin nephews of the late king, but only one can ascend the throne. Upon the discovery of critical information, Adelaide’s mother-in-law contrives a daring plan to have the right man chosen. Acting on this plan could cost Adelaide everything… Or it could open the door to a future beyond her wildest imaginings.
“The Love of a Princess” is a loose retelling of the Biblical Book of Ruth, and is a sequel to Ashton’s debut novel, “The Peasant Queen: an Esther Retelling”. While some characters connect, either book can be read as a stand alone.
330 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2022
29 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Ashton E. Dorow
7 books179 followersAshton has loved books for as long as she can remember, and at age fourteen, that love became a passion when she began writing her own novels. She currently resides in Conroe, TX with her real-life prince–AKA her husband, Austin. When not writing, Ashton can be found reading, spending time with family, serving at the church she’s attended since childhood, or drinking copious amounts of chai tea. Her greatest desire as a writer is to point readers to the ultimate Author—Jesus.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 19, 2022
No review since this is my book baby 😉 I hope readers enjoy Adelaide’s story, and that it touches their heart as it did mine while writing it! ❤️
**Age rating, in my opinion—16 and up.**
**Age rating, in my opinion—16 and up.**
September 17, 2022
"'Tis not wrong to have joy, even as we mourn."
When you see a medieval princess book loosely based on the story of Ruth, you may think you know what happens.
No. You do not.
And that's what's lovely about Ashton Dorow 's books - the plot twist that keep you on your toes.
Nicholas was an imperfect hero, frustrating at times but not so frustrating that you stop rooting for him.
Adelaide was a great heroine. She was raised for her role and bore it well, even though it wasn't always easy. In fact, much of it was very, very difficult. So much so that I began to wonder if the author actually did not intend to give us a happy ending. What a wonderful message about total surrender.
The chemistry and tension between Adelaide and Nicholas were *chef's kiss*. I felt the every emotion between them perfectly.
I hadn't done much reading lately as life has been busy, so it felt great to get lost in a good book and stay up way too late to finish it. Kudos to Ashton for great storytelling and another beautiful book.
I received a copy of the book from the author but a positive review was not required.
When you see a medieval princess book loosely based on the story of Ruth, you may think you know what happens.
No. You do not.
And that's what's lovely about Ashton Dorow 's books - the plot twist that keep you on your toes.
Nicholas was an imperfect hero, frustrating at times but not so frustrating that you stop rooting for him.
Adelaide was a great heroine. She was raised for her role and bore it well, even though it wasn't always easy. In fact, much of it was very, very difficult. So much so that I began to wonder if the author actually did not intend to give us a happy ending. What a wonderful message about total surrender.
The chemistry and tension between Adelaide and Nicholas were *chef's kiss*. I felt the every emotion between them perfectly.
I hadn't done much reading lately as life has been busy, so it felt great to get lost in a good book and stay up way too late to finish it. Kudos to Ashton for great storytelling and another beautiful book.
I received a copy of the book from the author but a positive review was not required.
November 6, 2023
Tremendous book yet again! As per life, there was much sorrow at times as war erupted and there was a plague underway besides....(Based upon the Bubonic one) This was a loose retelling of the Biblical story of Ruth and Boaz....great YA more so perhaps as the first as "Ruth" was only 21.....but; beautiful spiritual elements throughout of course, my heart was stirred often, and a pleasure to read all around. I get these to support a newer and Christian author, for my own 20 year daughter to be able to read too. I thoroughly loved the first 'The Peasant Queen" which was based upon the Biblical story of Esther so looked forward to this one as well. Will definitely be buying the next one based upon another well known character; The Prodigal Son :) ** The author stated that some characters may appear in each, they can be a stand alone which is great as well* Gladly recommend this book for anyone.
September 19, 2022
This book was simply breathtaking! I loved how Ashton never took the easy way out. She went to the heart of what love is and how it made the characters do the hard things. It was never fluffy. It was hard, heartbreaking, and raw. But it was beautiful!
October 3, 2022
Wow wow wow wow wow😍😍😍 Ashton has done it again! *sighs dreamily*
I am in love with this story. The storyline. Nicholas. The characters. The writing. Did I mention Nicholas?
.
I was fully drawn into Adelaide and Nicholas’s world from page one. I devoured The Love Of A Princess in about a day. Ashton really brought Trilaria and all her characters to life.
The setting was fantastic. I loved the kingdoms and medieval vibes.
The characters were so well written. They were all real feeling. I love Nicholas if you can’t already tell. But I also really enjoyed Adelaide’s chapters and following her story.
And those two together were just 😍😍😍The romance was so sweet. It had me wanting to scream at characters a few times but it was so, so, so sweet.
The author’s writing style was so beautiful and descriptive. This story played so vividly in my head.
The Love Of A Princess was so amazing and I definitely recommend it. You should start with The Peasant Queen because that one is AMAZING too but both can be a stand alone.
.
**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts expressed are strictly my own**
I am in love with this story. The storyline. Nicholas. The characters. The writing. Did I mention Nicholas?
.
I was fully drawn into Adelaide and Nicholas’s world from page one. I devoured The Love Of A Princess in about a day. Ashton really brought Trilaria and all her characters to life.
The setting was fantastic. I loved the kingdoms and medieval vibes.
The characters were so well written. They were all real feeling. I love Nicholas if you can’t already tell. But I also really enjoyed Adelaide’s chapters and following her story.
And those two together were just 😍😍😍The romance was so sweet. It had me wanting to scream at characters a few times but it was so, so, so sweet.
The author’s writing style was so beautiful and descriptive. This story played so vividly in my head.
The Love Of A Princess was so amazing and I definitely recommend it. You should start with The Peasant Queen because that one is AMAZING too but both can be a stand alone.
.
**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts expressed are strictly my own**
September 20, 2022
The Love of a Princess is a beautifully written, loose retelling of Ruth.
This book had me hooked from the first page. Although it is inspired by the story of Ruth, the author keeps us guessing with the many twists and turns thrown in. I was close to the last pages and truly wondering how it was all going to turn out.
This book is a story about family, loss, healing, trusting in God's promises, and standing bold in the midst of trials and struggles.
I loved Adelaide and her strong faith. Nicholas is a man of character, but his pride can sometimes get in the way of making the best decisions. I loved their slow burn romance.
This is book 2, but can be read as a stand-alone. I haven't read the first book, The Peasant Queen, but wasn't lost on the story.
**Thanks to the author for an early copy. All opinions are my own.
This book had me hooked from the first page. Although it is inspired by the story of Ruth, the author keeps us guessing with the many twists and turns thrown in. I was close to the last pages and truly wondering how it was all going to turn out.
This book is a story about family, loss, healing, trusting in God's promises, and standing bold in the midst of trials and struggles.
I loved Adelaide and her strong faith. Nicholas is a man of character, but his pride can sometimes get in the way of making the best decisions. I loved their slow burn romance.
This is book 2, but can be read as a stand-alone. I haven't read the first book, The Peasant Queen, but wasn't lost on the story.
**Thanks to the author for an early copy. All opinions are my own.
October 18, 2022
It was lovely to return to the Royals of Acuniel. After reading Ashton's debut novel The Peasant Queen I was anxiously awaiting this book. Her first book was amazing and I must say she did an excellent job with this story as well. While her first book was a retelling of Esther this one is a loose retelling of Ruth. If you have ever read that story in the Bible you will be able to tell the similarities and also the differences that the author includes in the story.
This story definitely takes you on an emotional journey. There were times I was close to tears, then I was holding my breath to see what would be coming next and if it would turn out the way I wanted it to. At times I was so upset at certain characters that weren't doing what they were supposed to! It was definitely a journey that was well worth reading and being consumed in. It definitely made you turn the pages.
The characters of Adelaide and Nicholas!! Gosh could they be more real?! Adelaide was so giving of herself and never hesitated to not only marry someone she wasn't completely in love with but tragedy strikes she decides to remain with her mother-in-law and her new home. Nicholas is an amazing male character. He is definitely swoon worthy. The way he takes care of Adelaide and pursues her is worthy of a dreamy sigh!
I am not going to tell you too much of the story because you really need to read if for yourself but know that Ashton does an amazing job with this book. For a moment towards the end I didn't know what was going to happen and it took everything in me not to turn to the back of the book to find out right away. She also does an amazing job at putting God in the forefront of the story. The thread of faith and sacrifice within these characters is very evident. It was also great to see Adelaide's parents in this story who were the main characters of the first book.
Overall I thought the book was great and I can't wait to see what Ashton writes next! Whatever it is I am sure it will be excellent! I definitely recommend both of her books to you.
I received this book from the author for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This story definitely takes you on an emotional journey. There were times I was close to tears, then I was holding my breath to see what would be coming next and if it would turn out the way I wanted it to. At times I was so upset at certain characters that weren't doing what they were supposed to! It was definitely a journey that was well worth reading and being consumed in. It definitely made you turn the pages.
The characters of Adelaide and Nicholas!! Gosh could they be more real?! Adelaide was so giving of herself and never hesitated to not only marry someone she wasn't completely in love with but tragedy strikes she decides to remain with her mother-in-law and her new home. Nicholas is an amazing male character. He is definitely swoon worthy. The way he takes care of Adelaide and pursues her is worthy of a dreamy sigh!
I am not going to tell you too much of the story because you really need to read if for yourself but know that Ashton does an amazing job with this book. For a moment towards the end I didn't know what was going to happen and it took everything in me not to turn to the back of the book to find out right away. She also does an amazing job at putting God in the forefront of the story. The thread of faith and sacrifice within these characters is very evident. It was also great to see Adelaide's parents in this story who were the main characters of the first book.
Overall I thought the book was great and I can't wait to see what Ashton writes next! Whatever it is I am sure it will be excellent! I definitely recommend both of her books to you.
I received this book from the author for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 23, 2022
Where to even begin? Can I just use all the emojis I felt while reading this book? Because I'm not sure if there are words to describe.
Just wow! Medieval is not a timeframe I read on a regular basis, so it was delightful to dive into something different than the norm.
Adelaide was an amazingly strong woman who goes through so much with a plaque in the land, the death of the king, and her husband, and all the immediate heirs to the kingdom. When some relatives are found and twin brothers Nicholas and Mericus come on the scene, both as possible replacements for the king, is when I really became invested in the story.
Princess Adelaide's mother-in-law, the queen definitely made it to my favorite side character list. I loved her spunkiness and the way she used her wisdom to help in different situations.
As it is a Ruth retelling, I had an idea of what might take place in the story, but, oh my, did Dorow excel at making it her own interpretation for her story that had me on the edge, holding my breath, and dying to know what came next. She had me in tears, wanting to throw my Kindle, and tapping to turn those pages so fast!
The beauty of a sacrificing, serving, deep and abiding love is portrayed through this story, and it just makes me get teary eyed now to think about the title of the book after reading it.🥺 I also enjoyed the cameo of Rowan and Arabella from The Peasant Queen.😍
And I have to say...I feel like Nicholas was the most accurately portrayed male character of all time, which can truly be difficult for female writers to craft. But, wow! You'll understand what I mean when you meet Nicholas and read in his POV. He put me through countless emotions.🥴 Haha!
There was a lot of war, but I don't feel that it was too violent or with too much bloodshed/killing, which was appreciated...and it certainly added to the suspense. But none so much as toward the end of the book with Adelaide. Ahhh! I was truly worried about what was going to happen, but I trusted the author...and my heart is okay.😄
I highly recommend this book.
Just wow! Medieval is not a timeframe I read on a regular basis, so it was delightful to dive into something different than the norm.
Adelaide was an amazingly strong woman who goes through so much with a plaque in the land, the death of the king, and her husband, and all the immediate heirs to the kingdom. When some relatives are found and twin brothers Nicholas and Mericus come on the scene, both as possible replacements for the king, is when I really became invested in the story.
Princess Adelaide's mother-in-law, the queen definitely made it to my favorite side character list. I loved her spunkiness and the way she used her wisdom to help in different situations.
As it is a Ruth retelling, I had an idea of what might take place in the story, but, oh my, did Dorow excel at making it her own interpretation for her story that had me on the edge, holding my breath, and dying to know what came next. She had me in tears, wanting to throw my Kindle, and tapping to turn those pages so fast!
The beauty of a sacrificing, serving, deep and abiding love is portrayed through this story, and it just makes me get teary eyed now to think about the title of the book after reading it.🥺 I also enjoyed the cameo of Rowan and Arabella from The Peasant Queen.😍
And I have to say...I feel like Nicholas was the most accurately portrayed male character of all time, which can truly be difficult for female writers to craft. But, wow! You'll understand what I mean when you meet Nicholas and read in his POV. He put me through countless emotions.🥴 Haha!
There was a lot of war, but I don't feel that it was too violent or with too much bloodshed/killing, which was appreciated...and it certainly added to the suspense. But none so much as toward the end of the book with Adelaide. Ahhh! I was truly worried about what was going to happen, but I trusted the author...and my heart is okay.😄
I highly recommend this book.
September 20, 2022
Anyone who knows my reading preferences knows I love retellings. When I first heard Ashton E Dorow wrote a mediaeval retelling of one of my favourite Bible stories, the story of Esther, I was definitely game.
And Ashton didn't disappoint.
When she announced she'd be needing advance readers for her second book, which was a retelling of Ruth's story, I was psyched.
Ruth's story is not one popularly retold to the best of my knowledge and I was curious to see how Ashton would retell the story.
Again she did not disappoint.
This retelling was true to the real story yet it hammered on several principles in the word of God.
Though weeping may endure for the night, joy comes in the morning. This is one believers should never forget. No matter how gloomy life seems, it gets better with God on your side.
Another is that God has our lives in his hands. The Bible did say we are inscribed on the palms of His hands. It's an assurance we can take to the bank.
That aside, the story was beautiful. The MCs were *chef's kiss*. I loved how they grew to love each other. I loved the progression.
This one jerked tears from me. It's worth your read.
And Ashton didn't disappoint.
When she announced she'd be needing advance readers for her second book, which was a retelling of Ruth's story, I was psyched.
Ruth's story is not one popularly retold to the best of my knowledge and I was curious to see how Ashton would retell the story.
Again she did not disappoint.
This retelling was true to the real story yet it hammered on several principles in the word of God.
Though weeping may endure for the night, joy comes in the morning. This is one believers should never forget. No matter how gloomy life seems, it gets better with God on your side.
Another is that God has our lives in his hands. The Bible did say we are inscribed on the palms of His hands. It's an assurance we can take to the bank.
That aside, the story was beautiful. The MCs were *chef's kiss*. I loved how they grew to love each other. I loved the progression.
This one jerked tears from me. It's worth your read.
September 18, 2022
Once again Ashton E Dorow has blown me away! This lovely retelling of Ruth is incredible.
Have I read anything like this... no I have not.
This book is packed with action, love, and uniqueness. The characters are so full of life and have such real emotions!
This is one of those books that I have a hard time reviewing because it is so great that I can't put it into words. The lack of words does not reflect the amount of fantasticness of this book! Go read it, you won't regret it!
This is the second in the series BUT you do not have to read them in order. Although, I would highly suggest reading The Peasant Queen first because it is also an incredible book and you miswell read both and start from the start.
Thank you to the author for the copy in exchange for a review. These opinions are my own.
Have I read anything like this... no I have not.
This book is packed with action, love, and uniqueness. The characters are so full of life and have such real emotions!
This is one of those books that I have a hard time reviewing because it is so great that I can't put it into words. The lack of words does not reflect the amount of fantasticness of this book! Go read it, you won't regret it!
This is the second in the series BUT you do not have to read them in order. Although, I would highly suggest reading The Peasant Queen first because it is also an incredible book and you miswell read both and start from the start.
Thank you to the author for the copy in exchange for a review. These opinions are my own.
September 19, 2022
The Love of a Princess by Ashton Dorow was a heart wrenching, butterfly stirring, faith challenging, fantastical romance that brought back some of our favorite characters from The Peasant Queen.
This marriage of convenience story reminiscent of the story of Ruth lulls you into thinking you’ll know exactly what is going to happen but then takes you completely by surprise at every plot twist and turn.
Filled with quotable moments, cheer worthy victory scenes and tear jerking heart breaks, it’s the perfect sequel for this series.
Ashton has mastered the craft of flawlessly weaving biblical truths into realistic situations to strengthen faith and share the gospel as a light in dark places.
This marriage of convenience story reminiscent of the story of Ruth lulls you into thinking you’ll know exactly what is going to happen but then takes you completely by surprise at every plot twist and turn.
Filled with quotable moments, cheer worthy victory scenes and tear jerking heart breaks, it’s the perfect sequel for this series.
Ashton has mastered the craft of flawlessly weaving biblical truths into realistic situations to strengthen faith and share the gospel as a light in dark places.
October 3, 2022
Beautiful
After reading The Peasant Queen, I have been looking forward to read the second book as in this one. Oh my I'm so in love with this book. The characters were amazing. Ashton has written such a beautiful story. I had my tears of sadness and joy. Nicholas is absolutely a cinnamon roll hero. Both Addy and Nick were best together.
After reading The Peasant Queen, I have been looking forward to read the second book as in this one. Oh my I'm so in love with this book. The characters were amazing. Ashton has written such a beautiful story. I had my tears of sadness and joy. Nicholas is absolutely a cinnamon roll hero. Both Addy and Nick were best together.
October 17, 2022
Loved this beautiful book!! Thank you to Ashton for letting me help launch it out into the world! 😍It was sooo good!
Here's my review for "The Love of A Princess" by Ashton Dorow! 5 stars!
5 stars for this gorgeous book! This is the first book I've read by Ashton Dorow, and I can clearly see now why there was so much online chatter about her previous book, The Peasant Queen. She writes and crafts worlds so exceptionally well, it's like watching a movie. (Which I would love if someone could get it right lol!)
This book is loosely based on The Book of Ruth but is set during the medieval era, one of my personal favorite settings. The story follows Princess Adelaide, daughter of King Rowan and Queen Arabella from "The Peasant Queen", and her marriage to the Prince Miles Alexander from the neighboring kingdom of Trilaria.
Adelaide was a lovely character and though she was a princess, she didn't put on false airs and wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty when helping others. She put her God, family and kingdom first (in that order) and was a selfless example of Christ and his love for his bride.
I had a great time helping Ashton launch this book, and hope to do it again sometime soon! Thank you to the author and publisher for the e-book! A positive review was not required but gladly given, and the thoughts above are my own.
Also, right now this is free if you're a Kindle Unlimited subscriber!
Here's my review for "The Love of A Princess" by Ashton Dorow! 5 stars!
5 stars for this gorgeous book! This is the first book I've read by Ashton Dorow, and I can clearly see now why there was so much online chatter about her previous book, The Peasant Queen. She writes and crafts worlds so exceptionally well, it's like watching a movie. (Which I would love if someone could get it right lol!)
This book is loosely based on The Book of Ruth but is set during the medieval era, one of my personal favorite settings. The story follows Princess Adelaide, daughter of King Rowan and Queen Arabella from "The Peasant Queen", and her marriage to the Prince Miles Alexander from the neighboring kingdom of Trilaria.
Adelaide was a lovely character and though she was a princess, she didn't put on false airs and wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty when helping others. She put her God, family and kingdom first (in that order) and was a selfless example of Christ and his love for his bride.
I had a great time helping Ashton launch this book, and hope to do it again sometime soon! Thank you to the author and publisher for the e-book! A positive review was not required but gladly given, and the thoughts above are my own.
Also, right now this is free if you're a Kindle Unlimited subscriber!
Read
October 5, 2022Review to come sometime in the future.
August 28, 2025
I teetered between 4 and 5 stars with The Love of a Princess, but I just couldn’t rate it quite as high as The Peasant Queen. Set in the times of knights and kingdoms, this retelling of Ruth was intriguing. I loved Adelaide’s relationship with her mother-in-law. This seemed more of a marriage of convenience story than the true Ruth story so there were less parallels than The Peasant Queen, but it was a well-written, fast-paced novel.
March 9, 2024
Sequels are hard to pull off, but Dorow amazed me with this book. It follows Princess Adelaide, daughter of Queen Arabella and King Rowan, as she faces a plague that ravages her kingdom and her future. It’s a loose Ruth retelling to follow the previous Esther retelling, and I can’t stress enough how phenomenal this novel was.
Story: 5/5
Worldview: 5/5
I can’t go too much into the story without spoilers, but let me tell you this: I loved every fight scene. They were musical and tense and I could just see the stroke of every sword in the air and the aftermath. Both Princess Adelaide and Lord Nicolas have their flaws and their faults, but they’re so real at the same time. I cried when God challenged them to trust their lives in His hands. It’s such a simple message, but it resonated deeply with the character and me. And while I’m here, I guess I’m already talking about worldview. I was stunned, as these characters didn’t just learn about God, but they learned what it means to surrender completely. It’s such an amazing reflection of how each of us are called to do the same. His yoke is easy and his burden is light. :)
Overall: 5/5 and I am saving up to buy the next book!
Story: 5/5
Worldview: 5/5
I can’t go too much into the story without spoilers, but let me tell you this: I loved every fight scene. They were musical and tense and I could just see the stroke of every sword in the air and the aftermath. Both Princess Adelaide and Lord Nicolas have their flaws and their faults, but they’re so real at the same time. I cried when God challenged them to trust their lives in His hands. It’s such a simple message, but it resonated deeply with the character and me. And while I’m here, I guess I’m already talking about worldview. I was stunned, as these characters didn’t just learn about God, but they learned what it means to surrender completely. It’s such an amazing reflection of how each of us are called to do the same. His yoke is easy and his burden is light. :)
Overall: 5/5 and I am saving up to buy the next book!
September 30, 2022
The Love of a Princess by Ashton E. Dorrow is the second book in The Royals of Acuniel series. I've been eagerly anticipating Adelaide's story since reading The Peasant Queen last year. And this story did not disappoint! I loved this medieval romance inspired by the story of Ruth.
Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite troupes, and this one was full of unique twists. I especially loved the proposal! But I most enjoyed the slow weaving of Adelaide and Nicholas's hearts.
I loved Adelaide and seeing both her mother and father's qualities within her. She is truly noble both in blood and heart, and I admired her servant's heart. She reminded me of what my true role in life is, too–serving others with God's love.
And I loved her slow burn, sweet romance with Nicholas. What a beautiful journey to watch two heartbroken people find joy in each other. There were many swoony sighs while reading their scenes together!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and following Nicholas's journey as he took on the many burdens of running a kingdom. With exciting battles scenes, romantic dinners by the fire, the danger and dread of plague, and the comfort and strength of family and faith, there are so many aspects of this story to keep you reading page after page.
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite troupes, and this one was full of unique twists. I especially loved the proposal! But I most enjoyed the slow weaving of Adelaide and Nicholas's hearts.
I loved Adelaide and seeing both her mother and father's qualities within her. She is truly noble both in blood and heart, and I admired her servant's heart. She reminded me of what my true role in life is, too–serving others with God's love.
And I loved her slow burn, sweet romance with Nicholas. What a beautiful journey to watch two heartbroken people find joy in each other. There were many swoony sighs while reading their scenes together!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and following Nicholas's journey as he took on the many burdens of running a kingdom. With exciting battles scenes, romantic dinners by the fire, the danger and dread of plague, and the comfort and strength of family and faith, there are so many aspects of this story to keep you reading page after page.
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
October 5, 2024
The Love of a Princess is the second novel in the Royals of Acuniel series written by Ashton E. Dorow. Some characters are connected between the first and second novels, but this story could be read as a stand-alone. With that being said, I believe you should go back and read the first novel first if you haven’t already. It was amazing and another 5-star read. It just helps all those extra details fall into place and helps make the story more rich!
This story made me cry. Literal tears. It isn’t often that I read a book that can stir emotions in me to such an extent that I cry but this story did just that! This book is loosely based on the story of Ruth in the Bible with beautiful twists and turns to make it perfectly unique and its own. Ashton is a MASTER storyteller! Her writing and storytelling abilities are magically enchanting, pulling you in from cover to cover. I have completely fallen in love with her writing style and have added her to my list of auto-buy authors!
Nicholas is my absolute favorite character in Ashton’s books that I’ve read to date. While I’d like to say he is perfect, he is clearly not and those parts play out on the pages for us to witness. He is as close to perfect as I would imagine a swoony, 13th-century, medieval knight should be. He and Adelaide’s relationship and the circumstances surrounding their relationship make for a beautifully written marriage of convenience story!
The battle scenes in this book were epic! I’m not great at visualizing things as I read but Ashton did a beautiful job. It was almost as if I was watching the cinematic version of her book in my mind as I read! 😂 I won’t give away any spoilers but the ending of this book? That is where my tears began rolling! 😭😍
Another beautiful 5-star read! This book also had me turning pages fast and I can’t wait to dive into the third book in the series.
This story made me cry. Literal tears. It isn’t often that I read a book that can stir emotions in me to such an extent that I cry but this story did just that! This book is loosely based on the story of Ruth in the Bible with beautiful twists and turns to make it perfectly unique and its own. Ashton is a MASTER storyteller! Her writing and storytelling abilities are magically enchanting, pulling you in from cover to cover. I have completely fallen in love with her writing style and have added her to my list of auto-buy authors!
Nicholas is my absolute favorite character in Ashton’s books that I’ve read to date. While I’d like to say he is perfect, he is clearly not and those parts play out on the pages for us to witness. He is as close to perfect as I would imagine a swoony, 13th-century, medieval knight should be. He and Adelaide’s relationship and the circumstances surrounding their relationship make for a beautifully written marriage of convenience story!
The battle scenes in this book were epic! I’m not great at visualizing things as I read but Ashton did a beautiful job. It was almost as if I was watching the cinematic version of her book in my mind as I read! 😂 I won’t give away any spoilers but the ending of this book? That is where my tears began rolling! 😭😍
Another beautiful 5-star read! This book also had me turning pages fast and I can’t wait to dive into the third book in the series.
November 2, 2022
Eu gostei muito do livro apesar de preferir o primeiro.
O plot não foi o que eu imaginava ser.
O amor de Adelaide com Nicholas é lindo. Foi um slow-burn bem slow mesmo.
Depois dos 50%, eu pulei algumas partes. Estava sem paciência pra ler.
Eu gostei muito da forma como Deus é mostrado no livro e o como é mostrado a fé dos personagens. Deus falou muito comigo através da fé deles.
Se você é cristão e gosta de romance, leia esse livro.
Mas se não for cristão, não tem problema, leia mesmo assim.
Na época que li o livro, tinha no Kindle Unlimited.
O plot não foi o que eu imaginava ser.
O amor de Adelaide com Nicholas é lindo. Foi um slow-burn bem slow mesmo.
Depois dos 50%, eu pulei algumas partes. Estava sem paciência pra ler.
Eu gostei muito da forma como Deus é mostrado no livro e o como é mostrado a fé dos personagens. Deus falou muito comigo através da fé deles.
Se você é cristão e gosta de romance, leia esse livro.
Mas se não for cristão, não tem problema, leia mesmo assim.
Na época que li o livro, tinha no Kindle Unlimited.
August 9, 2023
Oh wow
Though the first book (the Peasant Queen) will always be my favorite, this story was absolutely AMAZING! Like the first book, it was exciting, had inspiring spiritual lessons, and had some awesome characters. And oh my word I did not see those battle scenes coming but I’m so glad they were in there cause they were EPIC! (That’s probably what I loved most about the story lol.)
Dorow is an amazing writer and I’ve loved reading her books. I really, reallyyyyy hope she will add more books to this series!
Though the first book (the Peasant Queen) will always be my favorite, this story was absolutely AMAZING! Like the first book, it was exciting, had inspiring spiritual lessons, and had some awesome characters. And oh my word I did not see those battle scenes coming but I’m so glad they were in there cause they were EPIC! (That’s probably what I loved most about the story lol.)
Dorow is an amazing writer and I’ve loved reading her books. I really, reallyyyyy hope she will add more books to this series!
October 11, 2022
When I started TLOAP I was drawn in from the start! The way the book captures the readers eye in more ways than one is so breathtaking! I was going through a very rough time when I was reading it. One thing that helped me was reading this line from the book “We may never understand the ways of God, but we must trust that He is working all for our good, even so.” These words were like reading the answer to my situation! The talent in the writing of this book in its self is amazing. I encourage everyone to get both books and read them! But definitely TLOAP!
November 1, 2025
4.5✨ wholesome content
October 19, 2022
rating: 3.5 stars!
I'm not sure what I expected going to the book but I was pleasantly surprised!
one thing I loved about it was the friendship and companionship between Nicholas and Adelaide! I loved how they both grew to support and care for one another.
I also liked how the author retold the story of Ruth in a familiar yet different way.
Another thing was the character development throughout the book, especially for Nicholas. It was great to see the journey of the two main characters. They are both strong characters and it was incredibly easy to root for them.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t fully immerse myself in the book and felt a bit bored at times but overall, it was an enjoyable read!!
**I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own**
I'm not sure what I expected going to the book but I was pleasantly surprised!
one thing I loved about it was the friendship and companionship between Nicholas and Adelaide! I loved how they both grew to support and care for one another.
I also liked how the author retold the story of Ruth in a familiar yet different way.
Another thing was the character development throughout the book, especially for Nicholas. It was great to see the journey of the two main characters. They are both strong characters and it was incredibly easy to root for them.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t fully immerse myself in the book and felt a bit bored at times but overall, it was an enjoyable read!!
**I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own**
October 23, 2022
I enjoyed the Ruth retelling angle of this story, since it’s one of my favourite types of retellings to read. While staying true to the original storyline, there were a number of unique twists that made it interesting.
I struggled to like the main characters. Neither Nicholas nor Adelaide really captured my sympathies. And some of their interactions had a touch too much drama personal taste. My favourite part was Adelaide and Nerissa’s relationship—three cheers for a healthy mother-in-law portrayal!
While quite not my cup of tea, this story was well written and I know others who would enjoy it!
I struggled to like the main characters. Neither Nicholas nor Adelaide really captured my sympathies. And some of their interactions had a touch too much drama personal taste. My favourite part was Adelaide and Nerissa’s relationship—three cheers for a healthy mother-in-law portrayal!
While quite not my cup of tea, this story was well written and I know others who would enjoy it!
November 23, 2024
This book stole my heart ❤️definitely my favorite in the series!
August 28, 2023
I can’t describe how much I loved this book. It was perfection in the way it showed characters and events that were IMPERFECT. Adelaide and Nicholas have my heart!! 😍 This was a book of choosing love and striving to make a marriage of convenience work even when they didn’t know if they would ever romantically love each other. They demonstrated what a true marriage should be, and watching them struggle, fail, and grieve, yet continue to choose each other each time a new trial popped up was beautiful!
There was much more to this book than the romance (though I loved that part so much!!). A plague and encroaching enemies forced new King Nicholas to try to carry these burdens alone, and when it failed and he couldn’t see the light anymore, he leaned on God. Faith and trust in God was a huge part of this book and it couldn’t have been written better! One of my favorite verses was actually the theme of this book. Psalms 30:5 says, “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” This theme is carried out throughout the book and I loved it!
The Love of a Princess is written great, has a lovable set of characters, an engaging plot, clean romance, and meaningful messages. It’s beautiful, suspenseful, hard and emotional, hopeful, empowering, sweet, and amazing is so many ways. I cannot recommend it (and the first book) enough! 🤩
There was much more to this book than the romance (though I loved that part so much!!). A plague and encroaching enemies forced new King Nicholas to try to carry these burdens alone, and when it failed and he couldn’t see the light anymore, he leaned on God. Faith and trust in God was a huge part of this book and it couldn’t have been written better! One of my favorite verses was actually the theme of this book. Psalms 30:5 says, “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” This theme is carried out throughout the book and I loved it!
The Love of a Princess is written great, has a lovable set of characters, an engaging plot, clean romance, and meaningful messages. It’s beautiful, suspenseful, hard and emotional, hopeful, empowering, sweet, and amazing is so many ways. I cannot recommend it (and the first book) enough! 🤩
October 20, 2022
I received an ARC copy and I also purchased a copy - all thoughts are completely my own.
Let me start by saying that Ashton is a phenomenal writer. I am incredibly picky with an author's writing style; if I don't like it, I won't finish the book. She kept me hooked from the first page. I am typically really good at predicting events in books, but she completely threw me off multiple times. I loved not knowing what would happen next. She is amazing at illustrating character and plot progression; I love the characters and the direction she took their stories. The love she writes about is a forever love that isn't perfect, but that is what makes it human. While this is a Christian book, I did not feel that it was really preachy. She had an amazing balance of the religion aspect that created a strong impact and brought tears to my eyes. No spoilers, but I love how she transitioned from the previous book to this one and how she plans to move forward. I truly cannot wait to read the next book in the series. I will absolutely purchase a copy of every book in this series. I could not recommend it more.
Let me start by saying that Ashton is a phenomenal writer. I am incredibly picky with an author's writing style; if I don't like it, I won't finish the book. She kept me hooked from the first page. I am typically really good at predicting events in books, but she completely threw me off multiple times. I loved not knowing what would happen next. She is amazing at illustrating character and plot progression; I love the characters and the direction she took their stories. The love she writes about is a forever love that isn't perfect, but that is what makes it human. While this is a Christian book, I did not feel that it was really preachy. She had an amazing balance of the religion aspect that created a strong impact and brought tears to my eyes. No spoilers, but I love how she transitioned from the previous book to this one and how she plans to move forward. I truly cannot wait to read the next book in the series. I will absolutely purchase a copy of every book in this series. I could not recommend it more.
January 11, 2025
Once again Ashton Dorow dazzles her readers with the second book in the Royals of Acuniel series, The Love of a Princess. This was a five-star read for me, a book that kept me thinking long after I was no longer nose-deep in its pages. Be ready for an emotional tangle as you journey with Nicholas and Adelaide through the story.
The gripping story pulls you in from the start as Princess Adelaide faces an arranged marriage with regal resolve. Dorow's poignant writing gives glimpses of a woman’s heart struggling through unprecedented events. With relatable characters and a plot threaded with themes from the book of Ruth, the fabric of this story wraps around you like a warm blanket.
Plenty of emotions blaze a trail through this wonderfully written story filled with spiritual takeaways to keep a heart pondering the goodness of God in the midst of turmoil. Panting for resolutions will keep you turning the pages of this book. Dorow's talent for connecting this fantasy world with scriptural themes is astounding and makes this a must-read.
The gripping story pulls you in from the start as Princess Adelaide faces an arranged marriage with regal resolve. Dorow's poignant writing gives glimpses of a woman’s heart struggling through unprecedented events. With relatable characters and a plot threaded with themes from the book of Ruth, the fabric of this story wraps around you like a warm blanket.
Plenty of emotions blaze a trail through this wonderfully written story filled with spiritual takeaways to keep a heart pondering the goodness of God in the midst of turmoil. Panting for resolutions will keep you turning the pages of this book. Dorow's talent for connecting this fantasy world with scriptural themes is astounding and makes this a must-read.
June 5, 2023
I really wanted to love this book after how much I adored the first one, but it wasn’t for me. I couldn’t connect with either of the characters well, and I wasn’t a huge fan of the plot and all the distance between the characters a lot of the time.
It would be an enjoyable read for some. I really liked the mother-in-law/daughter relationship, and I wish we had seen even more of them together. It was beautiful. I loved both characters devotion to their country. This retelling of Ruth was a bit more loose than the Esther retelling was, but it was there mostly at the beginning.
I would definitely recommend the first book in this series, and anyone can pick up this one if they’d like to know more about her daughter.
“Love is more than just passion and heady emotions, though those things are a blessing to experience. Rather, much of love consists of our daily actions.”
It would be an enjoyable read for some. I really liked the mother-in-law/daughter relationship, and I wish we had seen even more of them together. It was beautiful. I loved both characters devotion to their country. This retelling of Ruth was a bit more loose than the Esther retelling was, but it was there mostly at the beginning.
I would definitely recommend the first book in this series, and anyone can pick up this one if they’d like to know more about her daughter.
“Love is more than just passion and heady emotions, though those things are a blessing to experience. Rather, much of love consists of our daily actions.”
October 23, 2023
a beautiful rendition of the story of Ruth!!
This might just be the most beautiful rendition of Ruth that I’ve ever read! It is a loose retelling but you can see the various snippets of the original story spread throughout. It was an amazing love story that touches on some hard topics like grief and finding joy amongst hard times. I love that the author ingrained God into the story so beautifully. The characters weren’t made to look like these perfect, holy people who always turned to God and always knew what to do. But instead showed what happened when they didn’t look to God vs when they did. Over all an amazing book!!!
This might just be the most beautiful rendition of Ruth that I’ve ever read! It is a loose retelling but you can see the various snippets of the original story spread throughout. It was an amazing love story that touches on some hard topics like grief and finding joy amongst hard times. I love that the author ingrained God into the story so beautifully. The characters weren’t made to look like these perfect, holy people who always turned to God and always knew what to do. But instead showed what happened when they didn’t look to God vs when they did. Over all an amazing book!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews