Lia is one of the most fun and awesome heroines I've been introduced to in a long time. (no offense Calaena, Karou, and Ismae). Lia, short for Jezelia, is a princess. When we begin it's her wedding day. She's being married to some prince who she's never met -- because she's "first daughter" she must succumb to an arranged marriage.
Lia has other ideas. She and her maid, Pauline, run away on horses right before the ceremony. Lia is wearing a jewel-studded cape that will help finance their adventure, and they are pretty tricky about setting false trails.
They arrive at Pauline's hometown of Terravin, where they are helped by Pauline's aunt and get work in her inn and tavern. Lia must stay hidden because there is surely a bounty on her head.
What she doesn't know is that the prince she left at the altar is looking for her. And the "bad guys" have sent an assassin to get rid of her. These two men arrive at the tavern on the same day. What makes the story much more fun is that the reader doesn't know which man is which. And Lia is falling for them -- well, especially ONE of them. Is it the right one?
Lia is in for a horrific adventure at the hands of some really scary men. She's resourceful and strong and never gives up. She also may be developing the "powers" that she is supposed to inherit from her mother. But she doesn't really understand what is happening.
The romance is dreamy and the adventure is heart pounding. There are sad parts too, and of course, deception all around.
The Kiss of Deception stands up to its reputation as a page turner. The ending gives us a little hope, but also a lot of questions still needing answers which will make you count the days until the next book (Heart of Betrayal) is released.
Another great fantasy adventure with a strong female heroine that I know will be immensely popular at my library.
Published by Henry Holt (BYR), July 8, 2014
eARC obtained from NetGalley
496 pages
Rating: 5/5
Wow, this one sounds great! I'm adding it to my "list". :) I love books that make my heart pound. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteGreat review! I'm really looking forward to reading this one.
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