I'd like to introduce you to a new favorite book. Heart of a Royal by Hannah Currie.
The characters were definitely my favorite part of the story. First, the future king, Ben, so set in what he wants, not giving in to the whims of others. Adored by the people, Kenna would be the perfect best friend. She was so sweet and thoughtful to everyone she met. Kenna's mother is someone that I would love to meet in real life. She had so much wisdom and insight to offer and her joy was contagious.
Early on, this book may seem similar to The Selection, but keep reading. Plot twists are a-coming. And boy, will they surprise you.
I can't wait to read more from Hannah someday!
(Did you see the cover of this?)
Rating: 5 Stars
Content: 4 Stars
*I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required. ( )

Everyone loves a princess story, right?!?

Well. This is not your ordinary princess story and by that I mean she’s not really a princess. Not a fake identity story and not a sappy story, Heart of a Royal spins an original tale with oh so many fairytale feels. The sparkle, the tiaras and dresses, a castle with a tower and a charming prince or two, all fit rather nicely within the pages of this book. What’s not to love!!

At almost eighteen, “Kenna” contemplates the reality of her future…which ends up being very different from what she expected. This book is a perfect YA romance, yet I am a much older reader and adored it as well. I loved Currie’s writing style, characters and inclusion of a strong spiritual arc so much that I want to read the whole series! You will too!

This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review. ( )

Isn’t this cover gorgeous? I’ll admit it’s what first drew me to this book, but the story is what kept me completely engaged. I loved Heart of a Royal! I’m a huge fan of royal romances and thoroughly enjoyed this story! It reminded me a bit of the Selection series, but I’m happy to say it’s its own unique story that I liked even more. No annoying love triangles, a likable heroine, and a prince that’s a prince in every way.

MacKenna “Kenna” Sparrow grew up alongside the King’s son and daughter since the death of the Queen. As the attendant to Princess Alina, she’s been treated as a princess herself and gained the respect of the people. Her close friendship with Crown Prince Thoraben starts rumors that she might be the future queen. As rebels threaten the Kingdom, the king’s determined to have both his children marry well. When his daughter becomes engaged, he wants MacKenna and her family gone from the palace, but, Prince Thoraben, “Ben” doesn’t want her to leave. Will their relationship survive?

Told exclusively from Kenna’s point of view, this story grabbed me from the first and I had a hard time putting it down. I easily connected with her and enjoyed her first person narration. I was intrigued by her relationship with the prince, Ben, and couldn’t wait to see what would happen between them. Kenna’s a bit clueless at first. It’s obvious Ben’s in love with her, but she doesn’t see it. I loved how he convinces her of his feelings.

There are several twists and turns which I didn’t see coming. I’m intrigued by the rebels and how they will affect the Kingdom. I loved the swoon-worthy romance but also the relationships between Kenna and her parents. While the King makes a good villain, he’s made sympathetic by what happened in the past and his misguided love for his children.

The ending left me satisfied though I still had several questions. I can’t wait to see what happens in future books. Though this is considered YA Christian fiction, there’s very little mention of faith until close to the end and I enjoyed the clever way it’s introduced. It’s also a clean romance that teen YA readers and their parents will especially enjoy.

Highly recommend to those who love royal romances with a touch of faith. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. ( )

Heart of a Royal by Hannah Currie is the first book in her Daughters of Peverell series. Mackenna Sparrow was brought to the palace as a newborn. She was to grow up as a companion to the Princess Alina. Now, that Alina is engaged Mackenna is no longer needed and is sent away from the only life that she has ever known. Now, she must adjust to living as a commoner. Even though this is a young adult fiction I really enjoyed it. I’ve always been a fan of the rags to riches princess story. The love and compassion of Mackenna shines through her every move. The way the Prince treats her is so sweet. I can’t wait for the next installment.

I received this book from Celebrate-Lit for my honest review. ( )

Many little girls dream of being a princess. Mackenna received that opportunity when she was little. But when she gets older she faces the reality of being sent back to the common roots she was from originally. Falling in love with a prince does suit the personal plans of the king.

Trying decide who’s to trust and what to believe can be hard. Mackenna faces that decision. Her struggle is worth reading about.

The characters are interesting and the story is captivating. This first book in this series is definitely worth reading. Check it out for yourself.

I received a copy of this book for my honest review. ( )