Strength of and courage often come at the least expected
times. Even the most timid of personalities carries that banner when truth and
right asserts itself.
In The Ring & The Crown by Melissa De La Cruz, we are
introduced to Princess Marie-Victoria, heir to the crown of the mightiest
empire in the world. She is gentle and quiet, and not very interested in the
politics and ambitions of her mother. For her mother, Queen Eleanor, magic hold
her fortress and keeps them all safe. With magic in such short supply, she
holds the only source and they are faithful to the crown.
Aelwyn Myrddyn has now returned from her exile from the
court. She is the strong and brazen daughter of Merlin. She also grew up with
the princess and they are fast friends. As the London Season begins, the
families of the rich and famous make their way to find succor with the royals
and other families of the times.
The princess is hopelessly in love, yet she must shirk her
love and enter into a loveless union in order to strengthen the position of the
crown. Unable to face such a dark future she seeks the assistance of her friend
Aelwyn. Both yearn to be what they are not, and after many pranks of using
magic glamor as they were growing up to pretend they were the other, Marie is
ready to step down and trade places for good allowing the strong and determined
Aelwyn to step into her shoes.
Yet even as the worries of the crown fade away, there is
danger. There is a nefarious scheme to take the crown, and only Marie can save
the family. But can she, her life has always been that of love and peace. The
man she loves is waiting for her, and she is sure Aelwyn has everything under
control. She must go back to be sure.
De La Cruz has an amazing grasp of characters and you
alternately love and hate them. She has taken a time of legends and done a
unique spin and blend of fiction twisting them into a riveting story of courage
and love. There are many kinds of both and the experience is rich with emotion.
The mystery that surrounds the Crown and the magic is intriguing. You find
yourself strongly rooting for both the Princess and Aelwyn.
De La Cruz also introduces a young American socialite as
well as a spurned love of the soon to be husband to keep the palace buzzing. .
Matters seem to careen in directions much like the spokes of a wheel. Who will
end up on top, and will the Crown and family maintain their rule and the might
of their empire.
If you enjoy legends and magic sprinkled with mystery,
adventure and romance you will find this to be the book of the season. This
would be a great summer read and a wonderful addition to your library. This is a story that fairytales are made of.
Rating 4/5
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