The first in a new series about a spunky princess from the make-believe kingdom of Tyralt,
the story opens with a ball, a coming-out party for her younger (beautifully perfect) sister.
Aurelia's life is threatened without her knowing it- her food taster has died...
An old school friend, Robert becomes involved as a secret bodyguard but guarding the princess proves to be no easy matter. Tyralt's beloved princess won't stay put long and is always sneaking out of the castle in disguises.
Smart, sexy, and rebellious Aurelia doesn't want to sell her body and soul, but reign as a true queen.
Evil stepmother, distant father, gorgeous racehorses, and gorgeous men, spunky leading lady- what else could we ask for in a good princess book?
The book leaves us hanging, and I can't wait to find out what happens next to the princess and her "bodyguard."

*This book is a little steamy, but nothing too hot for younger teens. ( )

Totally loved it! Easy to read and once you begin it is hard to put down. Definitely a series I am interested enough in to continue reading and soooo looking forward to the next book. ( )

I wasn't surprised to discover that this was Osterlund's first novel. At times the plot was a little thin, the characters weren't fully developed and the sword fight near the end lacked the intensity and suspense it should have had. However, on a positive note, the novel was full of adventure, romance, intrigue and assassination attempts, making it quite an enjoyable read. ( )

one and a half stars. This was overwrought and overwritten on top of being the most stereotypical, cliched palace intrigue plot there is. I'm rounding up to two stars because I didn't actually hate it (the male protagonist had a few engaging moments and some of the world building was very good).
( )

This was on my TBR list forever & finally I got to it (trying to clear out some older YA books). It was a very quick read & just fine storywise but I'm not going to continue with the series. ( )