Name: Emily Burns's review of A Princess in Theory by Alyssa Cole
Item: A Princess in Theory
Rating: 5
Author: Emily Burns

Alyssa Cole

From acclaimed author Alyssa Cole comes the tale of a city Cinderella and her Prince Charming in disguise . . . Between grad school and multiple jobs, Naledi Smith doesn’t have time for fairy tales…or patience for the constant e-mails claiming she’s betrothed to an African prince. Sure. Right. Delete! As a former foster kid, she’s learned that the only things she can depend on are herself and the scientific method, and a silly e-mail won’t convince her otherwise. Prince Thabiso is the sole heir to the throne of Thesolo, shouldering the hopes of his parents and his people. At the top of their list? His marriage. Ever dutiful, he tracks down his missing betrothed. When Naledi mistakes the prince for a pauper, Thabiso can’t resist the chance to experience life—and love—without the burden of his crown. The chemistry between them is instant and irresistible, and flirty friendship quickly evolves into passionate nights. But when the truth is revealed, can a princess in theory become a princess ever after?

Reluctant Royals

A Princess in Theory

Gillian Rose

Emily Burns

I haven't read a romance novel since I was a teen and this was a total delight. Inclusive romance might be a new favourite genre!

Jamieson

“Everybody wants something from you, but sometimes there’s a person you want to give to. Sometimes what you give them makes you better for having given it. And it makes having to give to everyone else not so bad.” 


ACTUAL RATING 2.5 STAR

look, I'm going to say straight out this isn't a bad book and this is the biggest, its me, not you, moment ever. If you follow my blog you might know I'm using 2019 as the year to read from all the genres I don't read from and try new things. Everyone I know who likes romance likes this book so I thought I would give it a shot. 

A Princess in Theory follows Naledi (Ledi), who loves science, was raised by the state, and hasn't let romance into her life lest it distract from her career. Ledi has been receiving emails from Thesolo, claiming she is betrothed to the crown prince, Thabiso. Ledi deletes the emails, thinking they're a scam - but when Thabiso himself turns up (disguised as a server called Jamal) the two embark on a romance, despite Ledi not knowing Jamal is a prince. 


I enjoyed part one of A Princess in Theory, I was going to give it a three star. Part two I didn't like as much and felt more like a 2 star henceforth my 2.5 star rating. I enjoyed the initial interactions between Ledi and Thabiso. The tension of Ledi not knowing who he was created some fun drama, and I liked their chemistry. But part two, set in Thesolo, felt both too rushed and too slow. The mystery that happened was a bit obvious, and I felt I just wasn't invested enough in the characters to really care about some of the drama. I also thought the ending happened WAY too quickly, some of the plot elements weren't really wrapped up in a way that was satisfying to me, and too many of the problems were unnecessarily drawn out, and then solved in like one chapter. 

I don't think this is a bad book. The writing is good, and the sex scenes are written very well. I also liked the individual characters and thought they were well written, Ledi especially. She was a smart, strong and competent female character which was really great. I thought the two really complimented eachother. But despite liking the construction of the characters, I just didn't really get invested in them on a strong level that I need to really love a book. 

Ultimately I just found myself wishing something that wasn't romantic drama would happen - which isn't really the point of romance. I might give this genre one more chance because I want to give The Kiss Quotient a chance, but I think romance just might not be my thing. If you like romance I would still recommend this, this just wasn't my kinda thing - so my rating is purely on personal enjoyment and not technical elements.

Lover of Romance 

This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from Avon in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

 

I had been hearing about Alyssa Cole for quite some time, and I was really intrigued by her historical's however when I was offered the ARC, I knew I couldn't resist trying out this sexy royalty romance and what a cover right? I mean, how can you resist such a fun romantic cover. I love the bright colors and how happy they look together. So my first impression on this book was WOW!! I had so much fun with this story, I can't even express how much joy and happy feels this book gave me. And it didn't turn out the way that I expected it too either, which only leads the reader into a story that has some twists and turns for sure.

Our story starts off when Naledi Smith, is our heroine. Naledi is attempting to finish grad school and working multiple jobs. She has a pretty busy life, and has no time for distractions, let alone annoying emails claiming she is some african princess.....right??!!! Prince Thabiso has never forgotten the young girl that was his friend and disappear, the girl that he was supposed to marry and rule a kingdom with. Now its time for him to marry and they were betrothed and he means to find her. But from the moment that he meets her, he knows he wants to know more. But he also knows that she needs to know the truth about who he really is. Thus begins a game of flirting and chemistry between Thabisco and Naledi. But will our prince be able to find the right time to tell Naledi the truth and win her love or lose her forever...
 
  I was hesitant to tell you about my wealth and my background because I wanted you to see me for me. I'm used to people judging me for everything I own and represent, and not me as a person.
 
What a fantastic romance and such a whirlwind of a love story that I fell in love with. Seeing two people who were separated as children only to find each other again. And add in the mix of a royalty romance, plus a bit of amnesia a bit. Our heroine was just a child when her parents fled the country but were killed and she ended up an orphan and forget her heritage and where she came from. Our hero has always had to deal with some difficult responsibilities, but for most of his life he has devoted his time and energy to his people. But when pressure is put on him to get married, he knows that he wants Naledi. Even though she doesn't know who he really is, she sees the real man, the man who no one else sees.
 
  I know who you are. You're the guy who learned to cook for me. the guy who's made me laugh harder than I have maybe ever, who made me come so hard I thought I'd peed myself.
 
What I found most interesting and an aspect of the story that I truly loved was the "secret" wasn't dragged out through the whole story. I love the way it unravels and seeing these two overcome the challenge of mistrust and find unity in each other and in their dreams of the future. And boy learning more about Naledi's parents and the reason they left blew me away. Honestly I never expected the outcome that ends up being revealed. The romance that builds between the two here are simply wonderful. I have found that their story is not your average royalty set up. It has its dramatic elements of course, some mistrust and secrets, so we see them have to learn to overcome certain issues in their relationship, but we also see how strong their connection is to each other. I think that is what I loved the most. Was seeing the way that they learn to trust again and that is where the intimacy they have just grows deeper and as a reader you just fall for them even more completely. The humor that is introduced is witty and fun and leaves you with a smile.

Overall I found A Princess In Theory to be a sexy and lively romance that I won't ever forget....a true gem of diverse romance that is a full of mystery, hidden truths and a stunning whirlwind of emotion and passion!!

Becky A

Hey, it turns out that the widely-recommended romance novel everyone says is hella cute and fun is, in fact, hella cute and fun!

Connor 

Gisela Ayala 

LOVED THIS! Can't wait to share our Lit Chicks review (stay tuned!)

sydney

Nedu

This was an instant favorite. I haven't laughed so much while reading a book in a long time

Becky

A Princess in Theory has been on my TBR ever since I saw the book cover. An inclusive romance which is also a royal romance and there's a STEM girl in it as well? Like, this book ticked all the boxes and the summary made me laugh so I knew I needed to read it. Also, Alyssa Cole wrote it and everyone seems to love her so I knew I wanted to read this. I'm so glad I put a preorder in for it.

First off, royal romances aren't really my jam. I mean, I don't get the appeal of royals and their love lives. Maybe it's because I'm British and the royal family isn't exciting and cool to me. Queenie is just a face on a coin and her kids and grandkids lives are pretty boring (why should I be so interested in their lives, they got the luck of the draw with what family they were born into and they aren't exactly the most interesting people). So, royal romances are always a bit cringe to me. An African prince scam sounds like the perfect set up for a romance. Especially when the prince isn't a scam and Naledi was actually engaged to him in a weird religious ceremony as a toddler... even if she can't remember it.

I have to say, Thabiso's ill-conceived plan of lying to Naledi full on stressed me out. I hate lying in books because I know the fallout from the lie will be brutal. I wasn't wrong. He caused doubts to arise in Naledi, she cared for him but she is a foster child who never got an adoptive family and has major trust issues. I felt for her her velcro theory on relationships. She seriously needed someone to want her so I adored seeing her and Thabiso grow closer. They were definitely meant to be together.

I didn't love Naledi's bestie but I was pretty sure that there was hope for her. She has potential to grow but in this one she was definitely selfish and pulled a lot of dick moves. Fingers crossed she becomes a better person next time (also, have you seen the summary for the next book, people, these books are my catnip).

This was a brilliant read and I am so glad the hype forced this onto my radar. Now I just can't wait for the next one.

Grace O'Callaghan

*3.5 ⭐️

I may not be well versed in the romance genre, but I know a good one when I read it.

Prince Thabiso is the heir to the kingdom of Thesolo and feeling the pressure of his parents, he’s trying to find a wife. But he can’t stop thinking about the girl he was betrothed to when he was a little boy. While in New York, he finds Naledi, his lost betrothed who believes him to be another person. Faced with the opportunity to forget about his pressures, Thabiso goes along with it. But how long can he keep Naledi in the dark about her history and himself?

• Naledi is my new icon. We learn that she lost her parents in a car accident and has only ever been in foster care. But she doesn’t let that stop her from working hard and studying about epidemiology. From my limited knowledge of the romance genre, often female characters are given a job, but then it’s forgotten when the love interest shows up. I just loved that her job was something that she was really dedicated to and played such a huge role in the story.

• Thabiso kind of grew on me over the course of the story. He begins as a typical prince character but learns to recognise his privilege. I’m a sucker for that kind of arc, okay? I’m not as on board with the ‘pretending to be someone else’ trope. It made for a very dramatic and compelling plot, but I still feel icky about it. His behaviour was definitely out of line and it was called out in the narrative and Naledi was not quick to forgive, but I still feel iffy about it.

• The chemistry between Thabiso and Naledi was so good. They were just so flirty and wonderful together. I loved how they brought out the best in one another. Naledi made Thabiso become more aware of his privilege while Thabiso gave Naledi some confidence to stand up for herself at work more.

• There was so much talked about in this book without it overshadowing the romance. We learn a bit about epidemiology as well as politics. Sexism and racism is also discussed when Naledi is expected to be a ‘team player’ and do work that’s not her own when her white, male counterparts are not. Family is also a big theme and we follow Naledi as she tells herself she doesn’t need anyone and watch her learn to let someone take care of her. I just appreciate the fact that this wasn’t just a romance.

Basically is your looking for royalty and romance with a strong woman as a protagonist, look no further. I’ll definitely be checking more out in the Reluctant Royals series.

Anna Agarwal

Rachel Benton

The Princess Theory is the first book in Alyssa Coles “Reluctant Royals” series. Naledi or Ledi as she is called is getting these strange emails telling her that she is betrothed to the Prince of Thesolo. There is also a suggestion that her parents ( who died when she was a baby in a car accident) are in the hot seat with the King and Queen of this African country. But the royal family are willing to put there feelings aside and continue with the betrothal. 

At first Ledi finds the emails amusing, but as time goes by and continue to harass her with emails she starts getting annoyed and thinks its some scammer that is harassing her. After a particularly bad night she finally responds, she hasn’t been replying back to them previously. She basically tells the person to bleep off. 

I think you can use your imagination on what she might have said. Her responding to the email ironically leads Prince Thabiso to finding her. I don’t want to give away too much of the plot. But in order to get to know Naledi better, Thabiso decides to hide his own identity for a minute and uses the alias of Jamal. This both brings them closer and tears them apart at the same time. 

I really loved this story. By the time I was finished with this story I was questioning myself, why I had not picked this up sooner? I thought that the writing in this story was very good. I liked how Thabiso in the guise of Jamal was able to experience her world (Which was different from his – due to him being a Prince) and she later on when she goes to Thesolo. 

 I also liked how realistic this book was. I admit had some reservations about the whole “Princess” off the street plot. Plus, I like how Alyssa Cole portrays the duties of the Prince in this. He is not just being served by servants, but actual duties that will help him later on when he becomes King. Like him meeting with energy executives who are willing to give him a lot of money so they can frack on the land in Thesolo. Thabiso is against this of course, but I like how Alyssa Cole is bringing an awareness of this in her book. 

I love the pairing of Ledi and Thabiso. I thought they had chem from the first moment they met. One of my favorite scenes was when Ledi had showed “Jamal” how to ride the subway. The sex scenes in this story was very steamy. I thought I was going to drop the book because of how hot it was. 

Aside from the main characters, this book showcased a variety of characters. I like the drama going on between Ledi and her best friend Portia, who has problems of her own, which are not reveal yet ( Portia has her own story coming out in this series and that is the reason why). Portia has drinking problem in this story, and she often take advantage of Ledi friendship. I love how towards the end that Ledi set boundaries and starts to see her own self- worth. 

Overall, loved this book. I highly recommend it if your looking to start a new series.

B. K.

4 stars. Likable, charming characters, and the comedy actually made me laugh a few times. Listened to the audiobook and would recommend it.

b.andherbooks

Rom-Com fans, meet your new favorite series! I've been dying to read A Princess in Theory from the moment I saw that delicious cover (the only thing that could make that dress better is proof of pockets) and wow I was not disappointed!

Graduate student Ledi, who grew up in foster care but is doing just fine, thanks, keeps getting annoying emails claiming she's betrothed to an African prince. Not having anytime for that nonsense, Ledi tries to keep up with her studies and her part-time job all while trying to figure out why her summer fellowship hasn't followed through with her yet.

Well, turns out the Prince is no joke, and his people have finally found Ledi after years of searching.

After travelling to NYC to meet Ledi, Prince Thabiso finds himself mistaken for the new hire at her job. Entranced by Ledi but hoping to get to know her before she realizes he is a Prince, Thabiso keeps up the charade until a disastrous run-in at a charity gala.

Ledi, overwhelmed with the truth of her heritage and Thabiso's lies, still finds herself drawn back to the country of her birth, tasked with helping an expedition discover the root of a terrible disease striking the population.

Funny, brilliantly written, and so sexy, this is a perfect start to a promising new series. I cannot wait for Ledi's BFF Portia's story in A Duke by Default.

Thank you to Avon for the ARC!

Find this review and more at 
  kimberlyfaye reads.


Confession time: I pretty much picked A Princess in Theory up initially because of the absolutely gorgeous cover. There's no sense in denying that's what initially drew me to it. I've also been interested in adding some diversity to the romance I'm reading, so that made me want to read it even more. Once I actually read the blurb, I knew I absolutely had to read it. I'm so glad I did, too. 

Who doesn't love a good royal romance? I know I do. There's something about the "regular girl" and prince/king/whatever pairing that just works for me. The added twist here of Naledi and Thabiso actually being betrothed while they were kids made it even better. It had a definite second chance(ish) feel to it and that's basically catnip to me. From the beginning when Thabiso was lying about his identity and pretending to be a commoner through the time spent together getting to know each other — and themselves, in some respect — again, I loved it all. 

The characters were fantastic, too. Ledi was a totally kickass heroine. I'd be friends with her in real life in a heartbeat. I was girl crushing on her pretty hard after only a couple chapters. I appreciated her humor, drive and intelligence. She was so easy to relate to. Thabiso was so freaking swoony I almost didn't know what to do with myself. I'm a total sucker for a hero who is all in and only has eyes for one woman. He totally wore his heart on his sleeve and I loved it. 

A Princess in Theory was a hit. It was fun and sexy and even delivered some feels. I can't wait to see what's next for the Reluctant Royals series. I've had heart eyes for the cover of A Duke by Default since I first saw it, but now that I know the words inside are just as fantastic as the cover, I have total grabby hands. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

FAVORITE QUOTES

He didn't expect a happily ever after like in the slim white romance books of his youth. He expected excitement, and it looked like Naledi could provide just that.

"I feel like my entire life has been me trying to keep everything together, but right now I want to fall apart. And I want you to be the guy that makes me."

"This is the Velcro thing, isn't it? The not sticking? Ledi, if you haven't noticed, let me tell you, I'm stuck. Intractably so."

window

Ann-Loy

I DEVOURED this book. Though there was an element of mystery it was pretty easy to solve and that didn’t take away anything from my enjoyment of this. Loved it!

 Bruna Acioly Leão

A Princess in Theory is the princess book I've always known I needed in my life.

I'm haven't been reading a lot of romance books, because I've read my share over the years and sometimes I feel like a lot of it is just recycling of the same plot and tropes. Which I get why that would even be appealing but it is not enough to hold my attention and I often find that when I am reading a romance book I am just waiting for the couple to get together and once they do I am just not invested in their story anymore.

This one was quite like that though - this couple had a lot of issues even after they got together multiple times, and it was enough to keep me interested and shipping it. Naledi and Thabiso had great chemistry and their romance was both sexy and sweet, which is the perfect combo. Also, the whole being a struggling science geek and suddenly finding out you are destined to be a princess is pretty much a self-indulging topic for me, so there's that.

In the end, this book isn't actually that different from all other romance novels and their formulas, but the execution, that is the writing and the character development is enough to keep you interested all the way through - and it is just not as predictable as most romances. Though of course, you can predict that things will work out in the end; one could argue that predictability is the point of romance - it is supposed to feel cozy and safe. 

So if you are looking for a feel-good novel and a new couple to ship - this one is a great bet.

Jo H

3.5 stars.

Lack of communication, miscommunication and lying as a major plot device is a trope I hate with a passion and royalty (like billionaires and CEO's etc) are not characters I'm generally drawn to, but this is royals with a difference (hence the lying) and despite my misgivings about those two things I liked it anyway. Alyssa Cole certainly has a way with words.

The absolute best thing about this book though, IMO, is that once the WSTEM 'princess' bags the prince, she does not give up her studies and professional ambitions but carries on regardless and her love has to fit into that. It's a definate improvement on the prevailing damsel trope that is still far too prevalent for my liking.

Gillian Rose &
A Princess in Theory by Alyssa Cole

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