Review – Kiss of the Royal by Lindsey Duga

Title Kiss of the Royal

Author Lindsey Duga

Description from Amazon

Princess Ivy has one goal―end the war against the Forces of Darkness.

Ivy’s magic is more powerful than any other Royal’s, but she needs a battle partner who can help her harness it. Prince Zach’s unparalleled skill with a sword should make them an unstoppable pair―if only they could agree on…well, just about anything.

But Ivy’s magic can only fully unlock with Zach’s help, and he’s not exactly cooperating.

Zach believes Ivy’s magic is dangerous. Ivy believes they’ll never win the war without it. Two warriors, one goal, and the fate of their world on the line. But the more they argue, the more they fall for each other. And only one of them can be right…

Initial Thoughts

Please see my hype post for my full initial thoughts, but I was excited enough to read this book all in one day (the day I got it).

Favorite Character

Bromley — nothing got past him.  He knew everything and I loved his character.  Despite what their society believed, he always encouraged Ivy to give Zach a chance.  He was more of a sibling to Ivy than either of Ivy’s biological sisters.  I’d like to see a spin-off about Bromley.  He deserves it.

Somethings I Liked

• I thought the world building was interesting — I can’t think of any other books where something fundamental (like love in this case), was not believed in.  It’s an interesting way to create a setting.
• The length of the book — I thought this was the perfect number of pages for this story.  I was a one day read and that was just right.

One Thing I Wasn’t Crazy About

• The magic system — I thought the magic was a little bit cheesy.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I thought this was a cute story the likeable characters and unique world building.  It was a fast read and the price on Amazon was great for a paperback.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Recommendations for Further Reading

• The Lady Rogue by Jenn Bennett – while the magic and world building are not at all the same, the main characters and their dynamic are quite similar.  If you liked Ivy and Zach’s banter, check out The Lady Rogue.
• Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young – again, the magic and setting are different, but if you liked the idea of one character challenging the fundamental beliefs of another, give this book a shot.  Irie, Eelyn, and Fiske all have different and conflicting beliefs in Sky in the Deep and coming to terms with all of it becomes the difference between life and death.
• Empress of All Seasons by Emiko Jean – this is a story where the main character is basically taught that love isn’t real.  Mari has one mission and one objective: marry the prince and steal his fortune.  Her mother and her way of life have taught her that you don’t need love to survive.