Overall: 4.00⭐️
Romance: 4.00🩷
Characters: 4.25👥
Plot: 4.00💥
World: 3.75🌎
Spice: 2.75🌶️

This was such a cute read! I definitely got lots of classic Disney princess movie vibes but with some mild spice added in too. I really enjoyed listening to this on audiobook; the narrator did a wonderful job. Throughout the book were so many little passing thoughts and details of chronic illness and lgbtqia+ representation that just made it feel so sweet and uplifting. Plus, I always enjoy a fun magical adventure where the two reluctant allies end up developing real feelings along the way. I mean, what other way to fall in love is there?

Bianca and Aric both feel trapped by their duties to their kingdoms. Seeing them grow and learn to overcome their parents’ expectations and demands was both frustrating and so rewarding. They both grew to love and accept themselves, despite their perceived flaws, through each other in a really wholesome way! The plot was well paced following the two try to break the curse and find who was behind the assassination attempt but I also really enjoyed the tidbits about the unique magic system. The setting was an interesting backdrop for this story without overshadowing the characters’ internal journeys and discoveries. 

If you’re in the mood for something extra sweet and mildly spicy with the nostalgic vibes of a fairytale but with a slight twist of roles where she’s the warrior princess and he’s the bookish prince out of his depth but willing to fight for love, I highly recommend giving this book a try! 

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Listener Copy for review. All opinions are my own.