This tale qualifies as Epic Fantasy, but it wastes little ink on the machinations of the mighty. Just enough to demonstrate the pressure that politics exerts on the mere humans who must fit their lives into the mould of their heritage.
Because this is really the story about two people who, despite their elevated titles, have one major task: to learn to trust each other.
Remin Grimjaw, the son of a treasonous family, has been a target for the Emperor’s assassins all his life. When he earns his name back through his martial talents, nothing really changes. He cannot let anyone get near to him, especially the Emperor’s daughter. Ophele has been taught all her life that she is the heiress of a treacherous family, and learned to expect nothing good from anyone, least of all her father, the Emperor. Thus, she cannot trust her new husband enough to raise her voice to the point he can hear what she says.
This is a real Cinderella tale, but told in no-nonsense, down-to-earth language and detail. In an interesting switch, the prince weds his bride at the beginning of the story. Then they spend the whole book learning to love each other.
There is plenty of action in the novel, both in the bedroom and on the battlefield, all laid out in precise detail, with appropriate pacing. The writing is smooth and unobtrusive, making the book pleasant to read.
But the main strength of the story is the characterization: of the two main characters, and also of the supporting cast, who are distinct individuals, though mildly stereotyped. This is a group of people you would like to spend a few hours with, despite their foibles.
The only complaint I have is that, typical of stories for less experienced readers, the motivation of the two main characters is suspiciously simple, and at times their behaviour seems driven more by the needs of the author to create conflict, rather than by their own thought processes.
This makes it difficult to suggest a reading audience. The plotline seems aimed at younger teenagers, but the graphic (though well-described and emotionally moving) erotic scenes put the book squarely in the R rating.
A very enjoyable read. Five stars