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A Foreign Crown
By Jen Geigle Johnson
Adult Historical Romance
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 240 Pages
August 3, 2020 by Covenant Communications
Summary
Following a devastating series of misfortunes, Lady Aribella Bardsley has bravely shouldered the responsibilities of her household. But just as the bleakness of her situation threatens to overwhelm her, a summons arrives from the Queen with a providential offer: Aribella’s presence is requested as a lady-in-waiting at the palace.
Prince Layton Wilhelm’s family has clung to their neutrality in the war for far too long. As the youngest of the King of Oldenburg’s eight sons, Layton is determined to prove his worth and is unwilling to turn a blind eye to Napoleon’s encroaching privateers. When Layton embarks on a journey to England, it is for one purpose: to petition the British navy for aid. But when he becomes acquainted with the lovely Lady Aribella, he cannot deny their powerful connection. Amid the intrigues and schemes within the walls of the palace, Layton and Aribella know a future together is impossible—but torn between loyalty and love, will they risk everything to follow their hearts?
My Review
A FOREIGN CROWN is a story of complex expectations of royalty at court amidst a war, and the two individuals that find themselves trapped in the middle. The characters are delightful and the story sweet, with a bit of interesting historical detail weaved throughout. Recommended to fans of the author and light historical romance.
I wasn't sure what to expect when I opened the pages of this book. The hero was from a country that I was unaware of that had been pinned in the middle of the war between France and England while King George III was on the throne. I found the historical details to be quite interesting, especially as I haven't read a book set exactly at this time at the English court (I've read other books set at this time, but away from court). The author did a good job of not letting the historical aspect take over nor weight the story down. I found the main characters, Aribella and Layton, easily likable. Layton especially has a bit of a spark to him with his humor and then his loyalty to his country, his position, and his heart. Aribella was also very loyal in the same way, but I found her to be steady with a bit of a backbone and a calmness to her. The story moved at a consistent pace with a few complications here and there and the English court to navigate. The beginning, when Aribella and Layton first meet, and then the end, where both characters have to figure out how to make their own happily-ever-after, were my favorite moments of this book. Another favorite aspect was Layton's family, particularly his brothers, who I would love to see more of!
I would have liked a bit more from this story. More depth to the characters and the plot. It just felt a bit like I was coasting over the surface instead of delving deep at times. Some of the characters' lines were beautiful and flattering, but they didn't necessarily always feel genuine. I would have expected that from others in the court, but not as much from the two main characters. There was just something missing, or maybe it's just that I wanted more (never a bad thing per se).
In the end, was it what I wished for? This is an enjoyable and interesting read, with likable characters and a sweet romance. I'd love to see future books about Layton's brothers with the same historical details woven throughout as the war between France and England develops.
Content: Some innuendo - clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
About the Author
Jen Geigle Johnson discovered her love for uncovering obscure and fascinating pieces of history while kayaking on the Thames near London as a young teenager. Now an award-winning author and mother of six, she loves to share bits of history that might otherwise be forgotten. Although she married a man whose substance is the stuff with which heroes are made, thinking up stirring matches for everyone else keeps her riveted to the keyboard--whether in Regency England, the French Revolution, or Colonial America. Her romance novels are much like life is supposed to be: full of adventure. They start with a grand entrance, immediately get pretty bumpy and difficult, are full of hills and some ravines, but always end happy.
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Have you read any other stories set right before King George IV or "Prinny" takes over for his father as Prince Regent? Will you be reading this one?
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