4.5 stars (05/03/19)

I wrote a whole ass review for this book and it straight up vanished. It didn't save properly so my very eloquent feeling for the great book will be summarized in this cliffnotes review.

1. This book hit me hard because of the representation. Seeing black african characters in literature outside of "important" books is a rarity. Commercial fiction need more of this. Black folks' narratives outside of the Struggle(tm) is a necessary part of representation because idk about other black people but my existence isn't consumed by black struggle.

2. The romance in this book was excellent. Naledi and Thabiso have such a fiery dynamic chemistry. I loved seeing them play off each other and bought their romance completely. Warning this book has smut but if you're down for that its great in my opinion. One of the great things about romance is seeing women take charge of their sexuality and Naledi definitely does that. The fe steamy scenes in this book were excellent.

3. I love the conflict in this story. Romance plotlines can often be filled with contrived miscommunication and simple reconciliation. Cole manages to flip the script of often frustration story arcs by allowing for Naledi to remain angry at Thabiso for his actions. He is not easily forgiven and trust has to be rebuilt in their relationship. Seeing that side of a conflict was refreshing and interesting.

A Princess in Theory isn't perfect but it's damn near close to it. The characters were charming, the romance fun and engaging and the next time I need to pick up a romance book Alyssa Cole will be the first author on my list.