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A Dowry of Snails and Mud
16-year-old, Rhia Caddell, doesn’t know what’s worse—arranged marriages or high finance.
Now she’s stuck with both when her desperate father agrees to marry her to the oh-so-dainty Prince of Wales in an attempt at royal tax negotiations. As a farmer, Rhia prefers toiling in the earth over romance. Life in a fiefdom requires muscle, and what good is a man who can't outlift her or bring a belligerent steer to the ground?
But now, the pressure has fallen onto her to whoo (or intimidate) her new, royal husband into erasing her village's debt before the king's final deadline comes due. Problem is, the prince has been given the same task—to sway his new wife, the mayor’s daughter, into forking over the gold and finally earning his father’s approval.
For Rhia, losing their new, delicate game would mean turning over the only life and home she's ever known to the king. Winning, though, could mean giving up the fragile prince she's tried so hard, and failed, not to love.
Now she’s stuck with both when her desperate father agrees to marry her to the oh-so-dainty Prince of Wales in an attempt at royal tax negotiations. As a farmer, Rhia prefers toiling in the earth over romance. Life in a fiefdom requires muscle, and what good is a man who can't outlift her or bring a belligerent steer to the ground?
But now, the pressure has fallen onto her to whoo (or intimidate) her new, royal husband into erasing her village's debt before the king's final deadline comes due. Problem is, the prince has been given the same task—to sway his new wife, the mayor’s daughter, into forking over the gold and finally earning his father’s approval.
For Rhia, losing their new, delicate game would mean turning over the only life and home she's ever known to the king. Winning, though, could mean giving up the fragile prince she's tried so hard, and failed, not to love.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 2, 2023
8 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
June 21, 2023
*3.75
This was a really cute and short YA historical-romance with some fantasy sprinkled in, and I really enjoyed it. There were some small plot holes, minuscule typos throughout, and a bit weak of an antagonist, but I thoroughly enjoyed my time reading this one. The romance was really sweet and I also quite liked the writing style. I just wish this was a bit longer. I really think this could have been an easy 4 stars had we been with these characters longer, and the romance was more fleshed out. But no big complaints really, I just thought this was quite cute and fun. I’ve been in an awful reading slump for the last few months, and this was a nice little novella to try and get me out of it!
This was a really cute and short YA historical-romance with some fantasy sprinkled in, and I really enjoyed it. There were some small plot holes, minuscule typos throughout, and a bit weak of an antagonist, but I thoroughly enjoyed my time reading this one. The romance was really sweet and I also quite liked the writing style. I just wish this was a bit longer. I really think this could have been an easy 4 stars had we been with these characters longer, and the romance was more fleshed out. But no big complaints really, I just thought this was quite cute and fun. I’ve been in an awful reading slump for the last few months, and this was a nice little novella to try and get me out of it!
May 5, 2023
The Dowry of Snails and Mud may not be your typical glamorous fairytale, but that's exactly why I fell in love with it. Rhia, the daughter of a mayor in a poor peasant town, is betrothed to Prince Emerys - sixth in line for the throne. Emerys who may expect to a kingdom of his own and settle the peasant’s debt to the king is instead set to rule only a muddy, snail infested land. Rhia's mission is clear: win over the prince and negotiate with the king to avoid losing everything she holds dear to his vengeful army. But as if that wasn't enough, wildmen are threatening what little resources they have left.
Told from Rhia's perspective in a first-person narrative. Rhia is the kind of strong female protagonist that I absolutely love. She doesn't need anyone to fight her battles for her, and she's definitely not your typical princess. Instead, she's used to rolling up her sleeves and getting her hands dirty, whether it's working the fields or helping her family and friends in any way she can.
When Rhia finds out she's betrothed to Prince Emerys, she's not thrilled - she knows that their marriage is more about politics and alliances than love. But Rhia is nothing if not resourceful, and she quickly realizes that she can use her strong-willed attitude to potentially save her town.
A Dowry of Snails and Mud is a captivating YA novel that doesn't contain any explicit content. The romance between Rhia and Emerys is developed naturally and surprisingly, with Rhia's bravery, cleverness, and natural leadership skills complementing Emerys' unconventional style of leadership. As you read, you'll find yourself rooting for their happy ending.
The book is not just a love story, it also highlights the challenges Rhia faces in her community and her personal growth as she learns the importance of compromise and the expectations of her role in her town. Although the stakes are reasonable, the story is gripping and engaging, making for a short and enjoyable read. But beware, there's plenty of snail and mud to go around!
Told from Rhia's perspective in a first-person narrative. Rhia is the kind of strong female protagonist that I absolutely love. She doesn't need anyone to fight her battles for her, and she's definitely not your typical princess. Instead, she's used to rolling up her sleeves and getting her hands dirty, whether it's working the fields or helping her family and friends in any way she can.
When Rhia finds out she's betrothed to Prince Emerys, she's not thrilled - she knows that their marriage is more about politics and alliances than love. But Rhia is nothing if not resourceful, and she quickly realizes that she can use her strong-willed attitude to potentially save her town.
A Dowry of Snails and Mud is a captivating YA novel that doesn't contain any explicit content. The romance between Rhia and Emerys is developed naturally and surprisingly, with Rhia's bravery, cleverness, and natural leadership skills complementing Emerys' unconventional style of leadership. As you read, you'll find yourself rooting for their happy ending.
The book is not just a love story, it also highlights the challenges Rhia faces in her community and her personal growth as she learns the importance of compromise and the expectations of her role in her town. Although the stakes are reasonable, the story is gripping and engaging, making for a short and enjoyable read. But beware, there's plenty of snail and mud to go around!
February 16, 2023
Rhia Caddell is the sixteen year old daughter of the Mayor of the small Welsh village she lives in with her older brother and parents, it isn’t the easiest of lives and involves a lot of toil in the fields and manual labour on the farm and Rhia has been doing these chores and labour for most of her life, it has left her strong, tall and muscly for her gender and it hasn’t gone unnoticed by those in the village. This is a good thing for Rhia because she can both intimidate and work at the same time and that has some advantages where she lives, but one thing that isn’t an advantage is that she is a free spirit in everyway and has no plans to settle down, but a letter from the King changes all of that.
Unbeknownst to Rhia, her hand has been given in marriage to the Prince of Wales so that the debt which her father has accrued over the years can be forgiven and those are two things which Rhia hates most, finance and arranged marriages and she cannot for the life of her understand why this tradition still stands, but despite her arguments against this imposition, it seems that she has no choice in the matter, so the preparations for her wedding begin in earnest.
As the day of her wedding grows near, Rhia is doing everything she can think of to turn the day to her advantage and when she sees the Prince in person, all she can think of is that she could snap him in half! He is so dainty that she doesn’t believe that he has done a days manual labour in his life, but she goes along with the pretence for her villages sake. Little does Rhia know that it is the Prince’s mission not to forgive the debt, but convince her that she has to pay before a deadline which the King has sent with him.
As the time passes and Rhia and the Prince come closer to the deadline, can they work together to formulate a plan to keep the peace and remove the debt, or will all their plans be snookered by snails and mud? This is a sweet romance with plenty of wit and humour throughout as this unlikely pair try and work out how to play a game they are both highly invested in without being hurt too badly in the process and it is one which will keep you laughing and gasping in equal measure as you follow along this rocky path with the newly-weds.
Unbeknownst to Rhia, her hand has been given in marriage to the Prince of Wales so that the debt which her father has accrued over the years can be forgiven and those are two things which Rhia hates most, finance and arranged marriages and she cannot for the life of her understand why this tradition still stands, but despite her arguments against this imposition, it seems that she has no choice in the matter, so the preparations for her wedding begin in earnest.
As the day of her wedding grows near, Rhia is doing everything she can think of to turn the day to her advantage and when she sees the Prince in person, all she can think of is that she could snap him in half! He is so dainty that she doesn’t believe that he has done a days manual labour in his life, but she goes along with the pretence for her villages sake. Little does Rhia know that it is the Prince’s mission not to forgive the debt, but convince her that she has to pay before a deadline which the King has sent with him.
As the time passes and Rhia and the Prince come closer to the deadline, can they work together to formulate a plan to keep the peace and remove the debt, or will all their plans be snookered by snails and mud? This is a sweet romance with plenty of wit and humour throughout as this unlikely pair try and work out how to play a game they are both highly invested in without being hurt too badly in the process and it is one which will keep you laughing and gasping in equal measure as you follow along this rocky path with the newly-weds.
January 10, 2023
This is an enjoyable and entertaining YA historical romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Set in Wales, and sixteen year old Rhia Caddell lives in a small village, with her father who is the Mayor, and she works the land as a farmer. With the village in debt to the king, Rhia’s father agrees to an arranged marriage between her and the Prince of Wales. However, Rhia is not impressed by the “oh-so-dainty Prince of Wales”, after all, “what good is a man who can't out-lift her or bring a belligerent steer to the ground.” Rhia sets out to either whoo or intimidate, whichever works best, her new husband in order to get him to erase the village’s debt. Unfortunately, the Prince has been told to sway his wife into giving over the gold in order to earn his father's approval. For Rhia, the outcome is either to lose the only life and home she's ever known to the king, or give up the fragile prince who she's tried hard not to fall in love with, but she has. I loved the likeable and relatable characters in this romantic comedy, and especially liked the dynamic between the Prince and Rhia. The storyline flowed well and the plot had plenty going on in it to keep me hooked. The descriptive narrative and added historical details made the characters and the setting come to life, making me feel immersed in the story.
January 11, 2023
A Dowry of Snails and Mud was interesting. I wasn’t too sure what I was reading at first. It took some time to pique my interest, but once it did I appreciated what it was. The author wrote a beautiful story that starts off kind of slow(don’t let that deter you) but turns into something so much more. A very strong female lead that grows even so much more throughout. I struggled to get into it but once I was, I couldn’t put it down. So worth it.
Rhia has been bartered to marry the King’s 6th son in hopes of the king forgiving her home for refusing to pay taxes on the land. Frustrated and treating it as the end of the world she does everything to make everyone miserable with her. Prince Emerys may be soft but he is no pushover. The push and pull between the two of them will be the end of Lians. Unfortunately dealing with the wildmen brings that potential to a screeching halt, but it could be just what they need.
Now saying all that, I’m sure you’re curious. Why would I go to the trouble? Because this story and author deserve some recognition for what was presented in this book. Keep an open mind and jump in. If you struggle like I did at first trust me when I stay push forward because it’ll be worth it!
Rhia has been bartered to marry the King’s 6th son in hopes of the king forgiving her home for refusing to pay taxes on the land. Frustrated and treating it as the end of the world she does everything to make everyone miserable with her. Prince Emerys may be soft but he is no pushover. The push and pull between the two of them will be the end of Lians. Unfortunately dealing with the wildmen brings that potential to a screeching halt, but it could be just what they need.
Now saying all that, I’m sure you’re curious. Why would I go to the trouble? Because this story and author deserve some recognition for what was presented in this book. Keep an open mind and jump in. If you struggle like I did at first trust me when I stay push forward because it’ll be worth it!
January 25, 2023
Rhia Caddell is only 16 years old when her father arranges a marriage to the Kings youngest son, Emerys, to try and save their small village. Rhia’s father is the mayor of the town and he did not want to bow to the king and pay taxes. The King is finally demanding what he is owed or he will wipe the town off the map. Rhia is their last hope. The family hopes that her marriage to the Prince will sway the Kings sentence.
Unfortunately Rhia is not a typical ‘Lady’. She is used to getting her hands dirty. She also is very tall for a woman making her see herself as undesirable.
The Prince is almost opposite of Rhia. He is dainty with soft hands that have never known hard work. Instantly Rhia digs her heels in. She does not want this marriage and she makes it known from the beginning. Instantly there is tension between the couple. Can she save her town before it is too late?
This story was very cute. It was opposites attract trope mixed with enemies to lovers with a HEA! I loved Rhia. She is sassy, independent, brave and stubborn. Emerys was full of hope and determination to show his father he can be a good Prince but lacked self confidence. The two evened each other out quite nicely.
Unfortunately Rhia is not a typical ‘Lady’. She is used to getting her hands dirty. She also is very tall for a woman making her see herself as undesirable.
The Prince is almost opposite of Rhia. He is dainty with soft hands that have never known hard work. Instantly Rhia digs her heels in. She does not want this marriage and she makes it known from the beginning. Instantly there is tension between the couple. Can she save her town before it is too late?
This story was very cute. It was opposites attract trope mixed with enemies to lovers with a HEA! I loved Rhia. She is sassy, independent, brave and stubborn. Emerys was full of hope and determination to show his father he can be a good Prince but lacked self confidence. The two evened each other out quite nicely.
June 2, 2023
Dirty snails and an aggressive teenager? Sign me up!
Rhia Caddell, a 16 year old from the most rural village in the country, is forced to marry a Prince hailing from the capital, after her father has refused to pay taxes for years (the royals never helped their tiny village so why should he pay them?). Let’s just say she was not the biggest fan of this arranged marriage, as she was used to life on her snail farm with her twin brother and parents, growing up with manual labor and an empty belly to sleep. She is far different from this prince, and she despises them before they even meet. The village has tasked her to woo the prince into forgetting their debts, but unbeknownst to her, the prince has been given a similar task, but to woo her into making the village pay their dues. Sounds fun, right?
Classic enemies to lovers situation which is a trope I adore. I do read a lot of romance, but I have never read a medieval fantasy before so I thought this could be fun and add a different element to what I usually read. Rhia is hilarious and the most stubborn protagonist I have ever read from. A bit annoying at times, but she is 16! That’s how they are! All in all, liked this book a lot.
Rhia Caddell, a 16 year old from the most rural village in the country, is forced to marry a Prince hailing from the capital, after her father has refused to pay taxes for years (the royals never helped their tiny village so why should he pay them?). Let’s just say she was not the biggest fan of this arranged marriage, as she was used to life on her snail farm with her twin brother and parents, growing up with manual labor and an empty belly to sleep. She is far different from this prince, and she despises them before they even meet. The village has tasked her to woo the prince into forgetting their debts, but unbeknownst to her, the prince has been given a similar task, but to woo her into making the village pay their dues. Sounds fun, right?
Classic enemies to lovers situation which is a trope I adore. I do read a lot of romance, but I have never read a medieval fantasy before so I thought this could be fun and add a different element to what I usually read. Rhia is hilarious and the most stubborn protagonist I have ever read from. A bit annoying at times, but she is 16! That’s how they are! All in all, liked this book a lot.
January 11, 2023
There's a wedding in the village and Rhiannon's not happy about it. Actually, no one really is! Due to some poor mismanagement of his territory, Mr. Caddell is having to marry his daughter off to the King's son. One would think that this would be a fantastic arrangement, especially for Rhia, but the King has six sons and she's to marry the sixth...a rogue named Emerys.
Rhia and Emerys know nothing about each other before exchanging "I do's" and it doesn't seem like they are going to get to know each other if Rhia has anything to say about it. She's doing everything she can to push Emerys away, not realizing that he feels the same as she does about many things.
Can they overcome these differences and save the land from the King's clutches?
I loved this read! It's a bit of a rom-com with a medieval twist. There are several very funny expressions and the way that Rhia acts...well I found myself giggling. She's very independent and strong willed! The story kept me engaged the entire time.
Rhia and Emerys know nothing about each other before exchanging "I do's" and it doesn't seem like they are going to get to know each other if Rhia has anything to say about it. She's doing everything she can to push Emerys away, not realizing that he feels the same as she does about many things.
Can they overcome these differences and save the land from the King's clutches?
I loved this read! It's a bit of a rom-com with a medieval twist. There are several very funny expressions and the way that Rhia acts...well I found myself giggling. She's very independent and strong willed! The story kept me engaged the entire time.
January 11, 2023
4 Stars
A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker is a fun YA historical romantic comedy with an arranged marriage, opposites attract, finding love unexpectedly, agendas, duty, responsibility, humour, banter, emotion, and drama.
I enjoyed this fun little romp, but being Ms. Tucker's debut novel, I really wasn’t sure of what to expect from her. But the title definitely piqued my curiosity, and I could help snapping up a copy to discover what it was all about.
Rhia Caddell is a very independent and capable 16-year-old living in a small town in Wales. For a long time the town has struggled to prosper, falling on hard times that have now led to some difficult decisions, such as the arranged marriage of Rhia to the Prince of Wales. Most girls would be giddy at the chance to marry a prince and become royalty- Rhia, not so much. She isn’t impressed by the thought of becoming a princess, much less her new, ‘delicate’, husband. But debts much be paid, and so the story begins-
Happy Reading…
Thank You, Brittany Tucker!
A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker is a fun YA historical romantic comedy with an arranged marriage, opposites attract, finding love unexpectedly, agendas, duty, responsibility, humour, banter, emotion, and drama.
I enjoyed this fun little romp, but being Ms. Tucker's debut novel, I really wasn’t sure of what to expect from her. But the title definitely piqued my curiosity, and I could help snapping up a copy to discover what it was all about.
Rhia Caddell is a very independent and capable 16-year-old living in a small town in Wales. For a long time the town has struggled to prosper, falling on hard times that have now led to some difficult decisions, such as the arranged marriage of Rhia to the Prince of Wales. Most girls would be giddy at the chance to marry a prince and become royalty- Rhia, not so much. She isn’t impressed by the thought of becoming a princess, much less her new, ‘delicate’, husband. But debts much be paid, and so the story begins-
Happy Reading…
Thank You, Brittany Tucker!
January 12, 2023
5/5 Stars
A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker
This is the first book I've read by the author. A Dowry of Snails and Mud is a fun read. I was hooked from the beginning. I would definitely read it if I was younger. The adult in me couldn't turn it down.
Rhiannon is a peasant and she is to be married off to a Prince. This doesn't sit well with her at all. She doesn't like it and she makes that known. Then after she is married things seem to get worse. Can she save her village? What about her marriage? The quote I chose for Rhiannon is: “You haven’t kissed me, you mad milksop.”
Emerys is the Prince and he's to be married off to someone he doesn't know the name of. All because he stood up to his father. He'd much rather bird watch and collect rocks, but he can't. Can he help his new bride save her village? The quote I chose for Emerys is: “Would it be so bad to share that business? Like it or not, we’re husband and wife now.”
Highly recommended for YA Historical Romance lovers.
A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker
This is the first book I've read by the author. A Dowry of Snails and Mud is a fun read. I was hooked from the beginning. I would definitely read it if I was younger. The adult in me couldn't turn it down.
Rhiannon is a peasant and she is to be married off to a Prince. This doesn't sit well with her at all. She doesn't like it and she makes that known. Then after she is married things seem to get worse. Can she save her village? What about her marriage? The quote I chose for Rhiannon is: “You haven’t kissed me, you mad milksop.”
Emerys is the Prince and he's to be married off to someone he doesn't know the name of. All because he stood up to his father. He'd much rather bird watch and collect rocks, but he can't. Can he help his new bride save her village? The quote I chose for Emerys is: “Would it be so bad to share that business? Like it or not, we’re husband and wife now.”
Highly recommended for YA Historical Romance lovers.
January 23, 2023
5 Stars!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Totally surprised by this book and I loved it. Normally, I am not a big historic reader, this book is a
YA Historical story that had knights, peasants, romance and a little bit of banter and humor and I totally enjoyed the story of Rhia and Emerys.
Rhia is just sixteen years old who lives in a small village and she finds that her father is to have her married to the Prince of Wales, Emerys. Rhia is hard as nails and has no doubt given Emerys a hard time about being married, but what the true intent on this marriage brings. Rhia's village owes a big debt to the king and Emery just wants his father's approval to retrieve that debt. Will Rhia and Emerys overcome their banter and differences to save Rhia's village especially since there are "Wildmen" also to deal with as well that are not kind to Rhia and her families home?
This is a great read, I highly highly recommend this debut story! The banter between the characters had me laughing and I love the overall story.
Totally surprised by this book and I loved it. Normally, I am not a big historic reader, this book is a
YA Historical story that had knights, peasants, romance and a little bit of banter and humor and I totally enjoyed the story of Rhia and Emerys.
Rhia is just sixteen years old who lives in a small village and she finds that her father is to have her married to the Prince of Wales, Emerys. Rhia is hard as nails and has no doubt given Emerys a hard time about being married, but what the true intent on this marriage brings. Rhia's village owes a big debt to the king and Emery just wants his father's approval to retrieve that debt. Will Rhia and Emerys overcome their banter and differences to save Rhia's village especially since there are "Wildmen" also to deal with as well that are not kind to Rhia and her families home?
This is a great read, I highly highly recommend this debut story! The banter between the characters had me laughing and I love the overall story.
January 10, 2023
A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker. This is the story of 16 year old Rhia Caddell who is tired of her life in the village where she is expected to marry someone her father has arranged for her to marry. Forced into a marriage with a Prince she does not like him nor her so of course the marriage is off to a rocky start. If she doesn't stay married it could destroy her village. Rhia is very outspoken and wants things done her way and that is not how things are done in her village. When her husband is kidnapped by a group of men called the Wildmen she has to use every bit of that back talking, strong independent ways she has to save him. The village is on the verge of going to the Wildmen and being lost forever along with her husband who she realizes now that he is in danger, she loves! Will Rhia be able to save the man she loves and her village? Read this amazing historical romance to find out!
January 11, 2023
A Dowry of Snails and Mud is a YA enemies to lovers medieval Rom-Com. This is Brittany’s debut novel which is a little crazy, a lot quirky and the humour had me laughing out loud at times.
At a stalemate over money the Mayor and King decide an arranged marriage will solve their problems. The married couple are to con the other to get the money.
This historical romance stars sassy 16-year-old, Rhia who soon finds herself in an arranged marriage to help the town. Her marriage to her sick and useless husband is to ensure the greedy King gets what he wants from the town. Along the way Rhia finds that there is more to her husband and they find that working together to break down stereo typical thinking between classes that there is a better way for all.
Brittany’s writing makes the story flow easily and the adventure fun. There are characters that you will like and others not so much like the sourpuss Winnie.
If you love YA rom coms then you will love A Dowry of Snails and Mud.
At a stalemate over money the Mayor and King decide an arranged marriage will solve their problems. The married couple are to con the other to get the money.
This historical romance stars sassy 16-year-old, Rhia who soon finds herself in an arranged marriage to help the town. Her marriage to her sick and useless husband is to ensure the greedy King gets what he wants from the town. Along the way Rhia finds that there is more to her husband and they find that working together to break down stereo typical thinking between classes that there is a better way for all.
Brittany’s writing makes the story flow easily and the adventure fun. There are characters that you will like and others not so much like the sourpuss Winnie.
If you love YA rom coms then you will love A Dowry of Snails and Mud.
January 12, 2023
Loved this story! The way Rhia thinks of herself, I felt like she was horrendous looking, but Emerys thinks he is the most beautiful girl and I fell in love with their relationship. I can’t really fault Rhia for being so mean and stand offish towards Emerys in the beginning, she is only sixteen and is newly married, what girl is thinking of getting married at that age! Watching them learn more about each other, and their hopes and dreams for the future of their kingdom is sweet, and both are extremely brave. The wildmen are a fun addition, the whole book I kept thinking why don’t they just form an alliance!? I liked how the author wrote in the interactions between them and the wildmen. Drystan, is Rhia’s older brother and he has a romance going on with Rhia’s lady's maid of sorts, Wynny, and I would be very interested to see their continuing love bloom as well as Rhia and Emerys, and to see what becomes of their peasant kingdom. I hope there is more to come!
February 9, 2023
A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker is full of historical elements and emotion, and it also has romance, curiosity, fun, responsibility, humor, drama, and comedy. Readers are taken on a thrilling journey full of moments that make you laugh out loud and characters you can't help but root for. When Rhiannon Caddell is forced to marry someone who isn't her love, she fears that her life is spiraling out of control. However, she never expected to marry a king's son in order to save her entire town from his father's oppressive tax payment. At the wedding, Rhiannon is uncertain of what to do with her new, gentle and soft-spoken husband Emerys, who has never done any farm work. With time running out, Rhiannon and Emerys must find a way to make the money demanded by the king. Not only do they have to keep their hearts safe, but they must make this arranged marriage work despite the odds.
January 10, 2023
Oh my goodness! This is one of the cutest young adult stories I’ve read. Rhiannon is forced into marriage with the Crown Prince of Wales. Emerys is everything she doesn’t like. The adventure starts right from the beginning. She and her brother are collecting snails for soup. You’ll have to read to find out why. Between having to save her land, battle the Wild Men, stand up to the King and face Catrin, Rhi has her hands full…..and she might even have to admit she loves the king. The story has humor, drama, family issues, snails, mud, and romance. The characters are quirky. I love how the author teaches about caring for others under all that fun story. Rhi grows up in this story. She’s strong and grows even more. I really enjoyed the story and will be sharing it with a few others that enjoy these stories.
January 10, 2023
This book was a good read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's a story about a peasant girl who is fiesty, has her own mind and bows down to no one. She is forced into a marriage with a Prince in the hopes of saving her village. Needless to say the marriage isn't a happy one and things go wrong. They are losing the village and now the Prince has been kidnapped by a tribe called the Wildmen sworn enemies of the people of Lians. Now the Princess has to use everything ounce of courage and strength inside her, that the royals don't like such as her not backing down from a fight or her sharp tongue to try and rescue the Prince which she now realises she does actually love and save her village.
Can she save the Prince in time? Will her village be saved or destroyed? And how will the snail's Rhiannon despises become something she truly adores?
Can she save the Prince in time? Will her village be saved or destroyed? And how will the snail's Rhiannon despises become something she truly adores?
January 10, 2023
A Dowry of Snails and Mud
By: Brittany Tucker
I went into this book not knowing what to expect. I picked it because the premise seemed promising, but then I never read anything quite like this - Historical Fiction with queens and kings and dowries. But I thought I would give it a chance.
I am so glad I did. Within the first few chapters I was hooked. I loved everything about this - the small village that is always under attack, the prince who is being punished by his father and set up to fail. A girl who wants all her problems to go away but she has been promised for marriage. Add to that snails and a good sense of humor and this is definitely a must read. I did not want to put it down. I definitely hope that there is going to be a sequel to this because I truly grew attached to the characters. I truly recommend this to anyone who is looking for a fun read!
By: Brittany Tucker
I went into this book not knowing what to expect. I picked it because the premise seemed promising, but then I never read anything quite like this - Historical Fiction with queens and kings and dowries. But I thought I would give it a chance.
I am so glad I did. Within the first few chapters I was hooked. I loved everything about this - the small village that is always under attack, the prince who is being punished by his father and set up to fail. A girl who wants all her problems to go away but she has been promised for marriage. Add to that snails and a good sense of humor and this is definitely a must read. I did not want to put it down. I definitely hope that there is going to be a sequel to this because I truly grew attached to the characters. I truly recommend this to anyone who is looking for a fun read!
January 13, 2023
5 Stars
A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker
A Dowry of Snails and Mud is a wonderfully written YA enemies to lovers Medieval Rom-Com that once you start reading there’s no stopping until you finish. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect going in with this being a new author to me and her debut novel but she definitely has a new fan now. This was a very quirky story that had me laughing hard at times. Her style of writing along with her creative characters make the storyline flow. This is about Rhia who finds herself in an arranged marriage that finds each of them are supposed to con the other to get the money. She finds out there is more to her husband than she thought. Can these two get the money the town needs? I highly recommend reading this fun book to find out what happens next I look forward to seeing what this author brings us next.
A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker
A Dowry of Snails and Mud is a wonderfully written YA enemies to lovers Medieval Rom-Com that once you start reading there’s no stopping until you finish. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect going in with this being a new author to me and her debut novel but she definitely has a new fan now. This was a very quirky story that had me laughing hard at times. Her style of writing along with her creative characters make the storyline flow. This is about Rhia who finds herself in an arranged marriage that finds each of them are supposed to con the other to get the money. She finds out there is more to her husband than she thought. Can these two get the money the town needs? I highly recommend reading this fun book to find out what happens next I look forward to seeing what this author brings us next.
January 27, 2023
When I started reading this book , I was expecting romance and a fairy tale ending, but humor is something which got me by surprise. 16 year old Rhia is to be married off to the youngest son of the king as her father , the Mayor has trouble managing the territory. The king threatens to wipe off the territory and an alliance is the only thing which can save him from the doom.
Rhia and the King’s youngest son Emerys have nothing in common. Rhia likes to get her hands dirty in everything , she is a hard worker with a tough mind where as Emerys is very polished and soft. Will just a “I do” save their marriage? Will they be able to save the land from the King’s clutches?
This summarizes the plot of the book. I loved the way it is written, there are a lot of funny expressions, which I really enjoyed. It is a royalty “rom-com”. Sit down, have a drink and enjoy the book.
Rhia and the King’s youngest son Emerys have nothing in common. Rhia likes to get her hands dirty in everything , she is a hard worker with a tough mind where as Emerys is very polished and soft. Will just a “I do” save their marriage? Will they be able to save the land from the King’s clutches?
This summarizes the plot of the book. I loved the way it is written, there are a lot of funny expressions, which I really enjoyed. It is a royalty “rom-com”. Sit down, have a drink and enjoy the book.
January 31, 2023
Forced into a marriage Rhia & Emerys come from 2 different worlds. Emerys is the sixth son of a king. Rhia is just a pheasant who is offered as bride in order to save her town from the wrath of the king.
After several run ins with the Wildmen the Prince finds himself in trouble. Rhia finally realizing her true feelings for him goes and plans to trick the kingsguard who are coming to town.
Wildmen, kingsguard and the town of Lians all celebrate over nothing more than SNAILS! Snails will save the town, take care of the debt to the King and save the Wildmen from the upcoming winter.
This is not your everyday fairy tale and I love how Rhia is strong and courageous and not one to back down for anything. She stands her ground and shows very early on she’s a strong person in many ways.
After several run ins with the Wildmen the Prince finds himself in trouble. Rhia finally realizing her true feelings for him goes and plans to trick the kingsguard who are coming to town.
Wildmen, kingsguard and the town of Lians all celebrate over nothing more than SNAILS! Snails will save the town, take care of the debt to the King and save the Wildmen from the upcoming winter.
This is not your everyday fairy tale and I love how Rhia is strong and courageous and not one to back down for anything. She stands her ground and shows very early on she’s a strong person in many ways.
February 3, 2023
This is a sweet love story that doesn’t start out on the most promising path. Rhia is determined to punish the prince for taking her chance at choosing for herself whom she will marry and Emerys is there to show his father, the king, that he isn’t worthless. After many hurt feelings, and misunderstandings they find that they aren’t quite as different as they thought they were.
I found myself wanting to finish it all in one sitting as Rhia and Emerys figured things out the hard way and then together. You may not look at snails and mud the same way after this.
My favorite little tidbit was the apology box, I may just have to use this the next time I need to apologize!
If you are a fan of strong women learning to not carry the burden alone, and finding strength and comfort in unlikely places this is the story for you.
I found myself wanting to finish it all in one sitting as Rhia and Emerys figured things out the hard way and then together. You may not look at snails and mud the same way after this.
My favorite little tidbit was the apology box, I may just have to use this the next time I need to apologize!
If you are a fan of strong women learning to not carry the burden alone, and finding strength and comfort in unlikely places this is the story for you.
December 23, 2022
I was lucky enough to read an advance copy of A DOWRY OF SNAILS AND MUD and I devoured every word. Sixteen-year-old Rhia Caddell would rather be out roaming the hills and forests of the small Welsh village of Lians where her family has lived for generations. But all is not well in Lians, and its people have fallen on hard times. As the daughter of the town's mayor, Rhia finds herself forced into an arranged marriage with the Crown Prince of Wales in order to save the village. Brittany Tucker's novel is a delight from the first sentence to the last. The characters are funny, endearing, and beautifully flawed, and I found myself thinking about them long after the story's satisfying conclusion.
January 15, 2023
This was a really great medieval tale! The female lead is strong without tragedy, and the male lead doesn’t have that “Prince Charming” attitude where you want to reach into the novel and slap him.
Through the novel we get to see so much character growth without it being shoved in your face and lots of characters that aren’t what they seem. The world building is beautifully done and the adversity of the situation is done so well without bogging down the story in a constant feeling of depression! This is just an all-around tale written so well I put it on par with the likes of Tamorah Pierce. I think this one should be that book people will talk about and recommend to all their friends with teens and pre-teens, or even adults just looking for a feel-good read!
Through the novel we get to see so much character growth without it being shoved in your face and lots of characters that aren’t what they seem. The world building is beautifully done and the adversity of the situation is done so well without bogging down the story in a constant feeling of depression! This is just an all-around tale written so well I put it on par with the likes of Tamorah Pierce. I think this one should be that book people will talk about and recommend to all their friends with teens and pre-teens, or even adults just looking for a feel-good read!
January 23, 2023
Rhia is about to marry the Prince of Wales. Sounds romantic if you like that sort of thing and Rhia does not. This is an arranged marriage by her father with hopes to negotiate a tax debt.
So, while Rhia is expected to save the town by convincing her new husband to erase the tax debt.
Unfortunately for Rhia and the town, the prince has been tasked with paying the tax debt.
How will Rhia and the prince navigate this new marriage, their fathers, the debt and an old enemy threat to their village?
This was so sweet and fun! An easy read!
Rhia is so strong and independent, and I really enjoyed the relationship between her and the prince.
The characters were so likable. The dynamics between Rhia and her brother were so heart felt and funny. Another fun relationship was between Rhia and the Princes personal staff - it had me laughing out loud!
Would recommend if you are looking for a sweet romance with charm and lots of mud and snails!
So, while Rhia is expected to save the town by convincing her new husband to erase the tax debt.
Unfortunately for Rhia and the town, the prince has been tasked with paying the tax debt.
How will Rhia and the prince navigate this new marriage, their fathers, the debt and an old enemy threat to their village?
This was so sweet and fun! An easy read!
Rhia is so strong and independent, and I really enjoyed the relationship between her and the prince.
The characters were so likable. The dynamics between Rhia and her brother were so heart felt and funny. Another fun relationship was between Rhia and the Princes personal staff - it had me laughing out loud!
Would recommend if you are looking for a sweet romance with charm and lots of mud and snails!
January 31, 2023
Rhiannon Caddell thinks her life is falling apart when she’s told she has to marry and not for love. But to try and save her entire town from a king wanting his tax payment but marrying his son was never an idea that crossed her mind. When the wedding comes and goes, she has no idea what she’s supposed to do with the soft spoken and gentle Emerys who is a complete opposite and has never farmed a day in his life. But there’s a more pressing matter, the father of her new husband wants his money and is going to get it one way or another. But what can they give? With both Rhiannon and Emerys fighting against the clock, can they figure it out? But more importantly, can they keep their hearts safe, or will this arranged marriage work in a way they never thought they’d need?
February 5, 2023
I truly enjoyed this book! The main character Rhia has grown up in a small village that has not been paying their taxes to the King so his sixth son is sent to marry her and figure out a way to get the gold. I love Rhia, she is witty and sassy and strong. She is a twin and is not dainty like most girls, she is tall and broad shouldered and has worked hard her entire life. Emerys, the prince and her new husband, grew up in a larger city and is not used to getting his hands dirty. They are enemies who have to work together to save the town. When they start to work together and actually talk and get to know each other they learn they have more in common than they thought. This was a fun historical YA novel and I couldn’t wait to see how it ended.
February 6, 2023
This was written by a new writer to me, so I was not sure what to expect. A friend recommended it after she read it and I am so glad that she mentioned it to me. It was highly enjoyable and not at all what I expected. In other words, it is not my typical fairy tale romance as it involved an arranged marriage of characters from two different worlds. The heroine is such a strong-willed character that you cannot help but love her. She is prepared to do whatever it takes and will stop at nothing to save her people even if it means marrying someone she does not love. Of course, throughout the story and all the incidents that occur it is no surprise at how the story ends. It was an extremely fast paced read for me and I would highly recommend it if you are into young adult romances.
March 8, 2023
A strong-willed peasant girl, Rhia, who lives in a dilapidated village is forced to marry Prince Emerys, the sixth son of the king. Emerys, who, although is smart, mild-mannered and kind-hearted, is destined to fail as he’s sent to the village not only to marry, but also to collect overdue taxes, or the village is to be destroyed. Rhia and Emerys’ personalities clash from the moment they meet, and they struggle to figure out how to save the village, their reputations, and their awkward marriage. Their struggles are made worse as they battle the Wildmen who are hell-bent on pillaging a destroying the village.
A fun page turning read that will have you loving and hating the characters.
Great read for teens.
A fun page turning read that will have you loving and hating the characters.
Great read for teens.
January 10, 2023
I loved this book so much!! Everything about it appealed to me from the inner dialogue to the quirky sayings to the overall story. One time she said fart in a jam jar, and I laughed so hard at that! Rhiannon Caddell or Rhia as she is known is the main character. She is to marry the crown prince of Wales, Emerys. She is quite determined to not like him and to make his life miserable - not unreasonable when you are forced to marry someone. She discovers that maybe he isn’t too bad overall. He might even be able to help her land and people with the money they owe and with the wild men who attack them. I loved every second of this book and highly recommend it!
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