Friday, July 17, 2020

A Foreign Crown (Royal Regency #1)

A Foreign Crown (Royal Regency #1)
By Jen Geigle Johnson
Published by Covenant Communications
Publication Date: August 4th, 2020

Description:
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?

Review:
This book was different from other Regency romances I've read in that it begins just before Prince George became Regent, and I found it very interesting to get a glimpse into the king's bouts of madness and the queen's efforts to keep it quiet so Prince George wouldn't be named Regent. I also thought it was interesting to see how Aribella served as a lady-in-waiting to the queen. Seeing the royal family, not just the upper ton, was different from the typical Regency romance. The writing style just didn't pull me in, however, and there were some aspects of the story (like pretty much a lack of mourning, beyond wearing dark colors and lots of unchaperoned time, without seeming worried about that at all) that just didn't feel right to me. Layton and Aribella were both sweet, and those looking for a clean romance may enjoy reading this one.
3 stars.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

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