In "The Consolation Prize" by Alice Coldbreath, Princess Una, the daughter of the traitorous Northern King, is desperate to be free of her confinement at the Larsson court of King Wymer. Even the prospect of marrying Sir Armand Bussell, who is the loser of a tournament rather than the victor, does not put her off as it means freedom. From a very inauspicious start, Armand basically never disappoints her again, proving to be a very good husband. The story is charmingly told, and the writer has a gift of telling a tale plainly but still entertaining. The book takes a unique approach by starting after the marriage has taken place, allowing the couple to fumble and stumble through those first few weeks and months, making the reading enthralling and real.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, featuring a charming rogue knight and a practical, strong-willed princess who grow and change through their relationship.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by a light-hearted and charming narrative, rich in emotive dialogue and playful interactions.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around the unexpected romance between a former princess and a knight, highlighting their journey of affection amidst a backdrop of political tension and lighthearted adventures.

Setting:

The setting is a whimsical, fictional medieval kingdom that enriches the romantic narrative with political intrigue.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally relaxed with thorough character exploration, though the conclusion may feel rushed and lacking transition.

This is a work of fiction and any names, characters, events, or organisations are either a product of my imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or people is purely coincide...

Notes:

The Consolation Prize features a former royal princess and a charismatic knight.

The story develops a minor character from a previous novel.

It's about a couple discovering an unexpected affection for each other.

The hero, Armand, is portrayed as a charming rogue who prioritizes money over honor.

The book includes themes of arranged marriage and personal growth.

The female lead, Una, has a background of strict discipline and is confused by her husband's antics.

The couple is seen playing games and having funny domestic moments.

The hero is respectful and strives not to hurt Una's feelings, even wearing outfits she makes for him.

There's a notable lack of supporting friends for the main characters, which some readers found glaring.

The story is one of sweetness and humor without heavy angst or brooding characters.

Alice Coldbreath is praised for her ability to create believable worlds and interesting characters.

The book explores the couple's early married life and the adjustments they make.

It features mild humor and touching moments despite some criticism about pacing and editing issues.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

There are medium content warnings related to strong language and some imaginative bedroom scenes.

Has Romance?

There is a strong presence of romance in The Consolation Prize, characterized by developing affection and partnership between the leads.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Princess Una harbors no illusions about her claims to Karadok's throne. The last of her ill-fated line, she is just grateful she emerged from the dark days of war with her head still on her shoulders. After three years under house arrest, she is keen to start her own life afresh, hopefully in relative obscurity. What she does not realize is the extraordinary scheme the King has devised to find her a suitable bridegroom.

Armand de Bussell is a rogue who shirks his duties and does as he pleases. How anyone could think him fit for a princess is a mystery to him. He neither wants nor needs a wife in his life. At least… that's what he always thought before he met the Blechmarsh princess.

The Consolation Prize is a stand-alone novel of over 99,000 words and is set in a medieval style landscape in the fictional kingdom of Karadok. Please do not purchase if you are offended by strong language and or sex scenes.

Ratings (8)

Loved It (5)
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Reader Stats (15):

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Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (4)
Not Interested (1)

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The Consolation Prize

Alice Coldbreath

Book 3 in the series:Brides of Karadok