Minnie's Fiction Addiction

👀 First impressions:
The Kiss of Deception opens with a strong hook. Princess Lia flees an arranged marriage on the morning of her wedding, determined to claim a life of her own away from duty and expectation. Settling in a quiet coastal village, she believes she has escaped court politics, unaware that two men have followed her. One is her jilted prince, the other an assassin sent to kill her, and the novel’s central tension rests on not knowing which is which. The story blends fantasy, romance and political intrigue, setting the stage for a series driven by identity and choice.

✅ What I Liked:
The premise is clever and immediately engaging. The mystery around the two male characters adds a layer of tension that keeps the pages turning, especially in the first half. Lia herself is a likable protagonist, stubborn, curious and yearning for autonomy in a world that restricts her options. Mary E. Pearson’s worldbuilding is subtle rather than overwhelming, allowing the focus to remain on character dynamics. The romantic tension is handled with restraint, favouring emotional build up over instant intensity

❎ What I didn’t Like:
The pacing slows considerably in the middle, with long stretches focused on village life that dilute the initial urgency. While the mystery is effective, the political stakes of the wider world feel underdeveloped in this first instalment. Some secondary characters lack depth, and the story occasionally leans heavily on familiar young adult fantasy tropes without fully refreshing them.

📚 Why You Should Read This Book:
If you enjoy fantasy romances with a strong character focus and a central mystery, this is an enjoyable read. It is particularly well suited to readers who like slow burn relationships and coming of age narratives set against a fantasy backdrop. Fans of court intrigue and hidden identities will find plenty to appreciate.

💭 Final Thoughts:
The Kiss of Deception is an entertaining start to a fantasy series, buoyed by a compelling premise and an engaging heroine. While it does not fully capitalise on its political potential, it succeeds as a character driven story about choice, freedom and trust. A solid introduction that leaves room for the series to grow.

🛍️ Where to buy
To buy your own copy click HERE and HERE

Final Rating ★★★ – A promising beginning with a gentle, romantic pull