A wonderfully unique take on romance and fantasy. Albeit a bit slow. And not really for me. Thank you for allowing me access early.

This book had a really interesting premise; a secret princess, magic, forbidden love...and I stand by that first impression I had. This was a unique book.

I did struggle with the pacing, in that the author drew out moments of emotional turmoil with inner monologues, and there was a lot of telling how people felt, rather than showing through contextual clues. I also felt like the mcs were emotionally young, though they were vying to rule a kingdom. In addition, it was a bit jarring to have so many notions that are so entwined with purity culture running through every page of a romance novel, including that sex should be to make babies, which I would have appreciated having tagged because it is something that is very hard for me to read.

Overall, I found myself rooting for the main pairing and was entertained by this read, but I would warn those considering this book about the purity culture and fantasy racism threaded through the pages. If those things don't bother you, this is a unique premise and it's not a story I've read before!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!

I am actually surprised how much I liked this one! I was expecting this to just be a fluffy romance set in a fantasy world, and not much more. The plot of this book has quite a bit of political intrigue! The politics of our main characters and their status within their society come heavily into play. The main characters are childhood friends, who have grown up alongside one another their entire lives. But Kennard is a prince, and Odelia is a commoner. Until Odelia finds out that her family history is not what she thought it was. I don't want to go more deeply into the plot for fear of spoiling it. The romance is solid! Both Kennard and Odelia are likable characters, and clearly have good chemistry with one another. None of their romance feels rushed or out of place, and their scenes together are enjoyable. I also liked the worldbuilding and powers system for this world! The story explains upfront how certain powers work within this world, and as the story goes on, naturally adds details on how certain powers work. I did laugh at the King CONSTANTLY transforming. Like, sir why are you transforming to say a single sentence, and then switching back? That actually ended up being explained, thankfully. There was one thing that did mildly annoy me and would take me out of the scene I was reading every so often. The use of the "curse word" that is "frog nuggets". Or worst yet, "flaming crusted frog nuggets". I understand that's a way of skirting around censorship and avoiding potential snafus. But...frog nuggets? Really? I struggle to think of what real-life curse word that phrase is replacing. BUT, this is a minor thing and only a personal pet peeve! If you don't care about lore-friendly fantasy curse words, it probably wouldn't bother you!

All in all, this is a solid little fantasy book! I noticed at the end, that it said there is a second book. The first book ends in a way that works perfectly as a stand-alone. But I am interested in potentially reading the second volume.

This book was really good at first I wasn't sure but it turned out great glad I gave it a chance can't wait to read the next one.

There is a twist at every corner... I really enjoyed watching the bumpy road these two journeyed. The story line was strong and the characters were entertaining and so reachable. There was plenty of sizzling steam which i love!.

This is a pretty good fantasy. Odelia and Kennard are childhood friends who wants to be lovers.
Two forbidden lovers share the rare gift to heal others with a kiss—but at a cost.
Odelia’s life has been a lie. When the queen tries to remove her from the palace, Odelia uncovers the truth. Now she must decide whether to forsake her people or embrace a destiny that would pit her against the current heir to the throne...her best friend. Even worse, the king gives Prince Kennard one year to find a bride—and Odelia is nowhere near suitable. Unaware of her possible betrayal, Kennard tries to help Odelia by hiring her as his private secretary. But the change in status proves just as dangerous to their friendship as distance would be. Though her only hope of avoiding a civil war lies in winning his heart, revealing her secrets too soon could cost both their lives.
And a kiss might not be strong enough to save them…
I received a complimentary copy of this. book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

This book was a lot more than I was expecting but I enjoyed it. I still feel like the book didn't describe Ken's feelings as much as I would have liked but it did get better once they were actually engaged.

I received a copy through netgalley.