Scan barcode
caribbean_skye's review
3.0
This novella reads like a modern (adult) alternative fairytale but with a twist.
In order to ensure the continued mutual good relations between the kingdoms of Qax and Athena the royal families from both kingdoms agree to marry their first borns to the other. This isn't unheard of or entirely unusual, however what happens is. The kingdom of Qax has been anxiously awaiting a prince of Athena to marry their Princess Vexa. Not only is Princess Vexa reported to be unsightly, but if an heir isn't produced King Magnatus threatens to invade Athena and make the kingdom pay.
The King and Queen of Athena keep trying and after many years the Queen succeeds in producing an heir. However all is not well, not only does the Queen die in childbirth but the heir is also female. With boys being scarce and not finding anyone in his kingdom willing to offer up their male child in place, the King has no choice but to continue this farce and hope for the best.
I really enjoyed the premise of this book and there are several undertones and stories within stories. There is a little something for everyone. Much like other fairy tales, how some characters think they have no choice but work within the system in order to be happy. That there are characters of all ages and stations who are continuing to learn about themselves.
There are light references to lesbianism, transgender and sexual situations but they are extremely tastefully done.
In order to ensure the continued mutual good relations between the kingdoms of Qax and Athena the royal families from both kingdoms agree to marry their first borns to the other. This isn't unheard of or entirely unusual, however what happens is. The kingdom of Qax has been anxiously awaiting a prince of Athena to marry their Princess Vexa. Not only is Princess Vexa reported to be unsightly, but if an heir isn't produced King Magnatus threatens to invade Athena and make the kingdom pay.
The King and Queen of Athena keep trying and after many years the Queen succeeds in producing an heir. However all is not well, not only does the Queen die in childbirth but the heir is also female. With boys being scarce and not finding anyone in his kingdom willing to offer up their male child in place, the King has no choice but to continue this farce and hope for the best.
I really enjoyed the premise of this book and there are several undertones and stories within stories. There is a little something for everyone. Much like other fairy tales, how some characters think they have no choice but work within the system in order to be happy. That there are characters of all ages and stations who are continuing to learn about themselves.
There are light references to lesbianism, transgender and sexual situations but they are extremely tastefully done.
More...