A Heartfelt Journey Through Duty and Desire: Review of The Promised Prince
As a lover of young adult fiction, particularly in the realms of dystopian tales brimming with romance, I was excited to dive into The Promised Prince by Kortney Keisel, especially after the allure of its predecessor, The Rejected King. This sequel, nestled within the Desolation series, promises political intrigue and forbidden love. I was drawn to the prospect of seeing how love navigates the treacherous waters of duty, and I was not disappointed.
Right from the first pages, I was captivated by Renna Degray, an eighteen-year-old caught between her heart’s desires and the weight of her family’s expectations. After a chance encounter with the charming Prince Trev, who’s engaged to her stepsister, I found myself swept into a world where emotions clash with alliances and duty becomes a double-edged sword. The narrative strikes a perfect balance between the sweetness of young love and the harsh realities of a politically charged landscape. The palpable chemistry between Trev and Renna kept me glued to the page, and I found myself whispering “just kiss already!” at several moments—classic romance vibes!
Keisel’s writing style is approachable and engaging, with a knack for witty banter that made me chuckle and root for the characters. Renna’s mischievous spirit and Trev’s affable charm are beautifully rendered; it’s almost impossible not to fall for them. Their interactions glow with a blend of humor and tension, particularly their secret glances and stolen moments. I could sense the stakes rising with each chapter, making the reading experience all the more thrilling.
One of the notable highlights for me was the strong supporting cast, especially the layered interactions with Seran, Trev’s betrothed. Her character adds nuance and depth to the storyline, showcasing that love can exist amidst complicated relationships. Renna and Seran’s friendship highlights the beauty of loyalty and the complexities of familial ties, an aspect I truly appreciated. There’s something refreshing and relatable about the emotional turmoil that both women experience as they navigate love and friendship.
Not to mention the tantalizing backdrop of post-Desolation society, where the remnants of humanity grapple with a new order governed by the Council of Essentials. This world-building provided just enough intrigue to evoke my imagination without detracting from the central romance arc. Keisel cleverly intertwines societal issues with personal stakes, making this more than just a love story—it’s a narrative about the fight for agency in a controlled world.
Reflecting on my reading experience, I found myself emotionally invested. Themes of duty, the pain of forbidden love, and the struggles of self-identity resonated deeply. One passage echoed particularly well: “Is love essential?” It’s a question that lingers long after the final page is turned, prompting readers to ponder what we sacrifice for the things we desire most.
I highly recommend The Promised Prince to anyone who enjoys engaging YA dystopian romances with layers of humor and emotional depth. Fans of The Selection series will find this book to be a delightful addition to their shelf. Ultimately, it’s a story that beautifully captures the journey of choosing between heart and obligation, leaving you to wonder, what would you do for love? Grab a cozy blanket and prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions with Renna and Trev’s journey; it’s a ride you won’t want to miss!
You can find The Promised Prince: A YA Dystopian Romance (Desolation Book 2) here >>