I have to say, I'm not a huge reader of medieval-type romances, but this one may have just changed that. The illustrations created via Ms. Townend's writing were (are) amazing, and her words flowed smoothly.
At first I thought I was not going to understand what exactly was going on because I have not read the previous two books in the Palace Brides series, but the first chapter had me so thoroughly intrigued that I just kept reading, waiting to find out more. And I did. There is a lot going on with Theodora's past, but it doesn't get confusing at all. Nikolaos' past also allows for the way things play out, so the decisions and things he says do not seem implausible in the least. The pace at which their feelings developed for each other felt perfect to me, not rushed at all. At first, I thought I was going to not like Theordora so much, and that probably has to do with the fact that I don't like deceit. But as the story progressed, I understood her reasons and hesitations for everything. In the end however, I still did not quite like Theodora as much as I would have liked to. Her constant doubt and troubled thoughts of "I am not a princess" irked me a little and I found myself wanting to shake her. But as with all people, not everyone is liked by everyone, so that's just my two-cents on it.
I do think I noticed a typo. On pg 88, when Sophia is speaking to Theodora "Rather that rushing on with the marriage, my lady, wouldn't it be best..." I think it should have been "Rather than..." But who knows, I know I'm not the best writer/grammarist out there.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read, and one that I do recommend if you get the chance. I think I'm going to have to go out and buy the previous two books.
