The Head, the Heart, and the Heir - Review

𝕀𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕖 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨

𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘥, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘏𝘦𝘪𝘳 by Alice Hanov

⭐⭐⭐⭐💫

“Friendship and connection leads to wanting to be around someone. And wanting to be around someone, even when they aren’t at their best, is an important part of love.”

What an incredible debut novel! It has been a while since I read fantasy and I was so happy to be back in the genre. I can’t wait to read the prequel (also available now, FYI) and the next books in the series.

This book has it all. Adventure, heartbreak, angst, handsome princes, royals, tournaments, magic, enemies, lovers (with a bit of steam).

What I loved most about this book is the theme of love. Romantic love, brotherly love, fatherly love, love from beyond the grave. At times I wanted to slap Alex (aka Princess Elizabeth) and Aaron, who are so obviously in love with each other but are stubborn and proud in their own ways. But they are complex characters and so is their love for one another.

Side characters rarely stick with me after reading a novel, but there are many awesome characters in this book. Jessica, a lady’s maid for the princess, is the best friend you want in your life. She isn’t afraid to stuff the truth down your throat, even if it hurts.

Some things I didn’t like? There were times when scenes cut too abruptly. I felt like I was missing out on something. And Cameron. Ugh. I hate him.

Overall, this was an amazing adventure I would re-read in an instant. The characters are lovable, the plot is intriguing even though it’s a tad predictable, and the slow burn was very satisfying. Well done, Alice, on writing one hell of a debut novel! Thank you so much for sending me a free copy ❤️