The Betrothed
So-so royal romance delivers stolen kisses, swooshy gowns.
Kids say
Based on 3 reviews
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Betrothed is a romance set in an imagined world by veteran author Kiera Cass (The Selection series). The romance is confined to describing feelings and a few kisses without a lot of detail. There's some implied, "off screen" violence from sounds and the aftermath of an attack with no direct descriptions, but the aftermath is described without much detail and no gore. Important characters die, so grief and loss are strong themes, mainly toward the end. One character mentions she's had multiple miscarriages. Ale and mead are mentioned at social occasions, one character acts tipsy once, and main-character Hollis drinks a tankard of ale quickly once when she's under stress. Hollis is a positive role model of empathy, integrity, honest communication, and strong bonds of friendship.
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What's the Story?
Hollis Brite becomes THE BETROTHED when she catches the eye of the young, handsome, and well-loved Jameson, King of Coroa. As she's dreaming of one day being queen, and making plans for how best to help her king and country, a noble family from a neighboring kingdom arrives requesting asylum and resettlement in Coroa. Hollis is immediately drawn to their oldest son, Silas, and his dazzling blue eyes. The closer Hollis comes to having all her dreams come true, the less sure she becomes about what her dreams really are, and what kind of life would make her happiest. How can she choose when her heart's being pulled in two directions at once?
Is It Any Good?
Readers who love to devour all things romantic and royal will enjoy this serving from Kiera Cass, author of the popular The Selection series. There's the handsome, perfect-boyfriend king, the equally handsome mysterious newcomer, and in the middle of it all The Betrothed herself, likable Hollis, who wants to be more than someone's arm candy and who isn't afraid to be herself at all times. The story is predictable, although not always a straight, smooth path; tragedy and heartbreak are part of the bargain.
There's not much here to tempt readers who aren't already romance fans, or who aren't ready to find out if they are or not. The world is well realized but not particularly imaginative. Lots of characters are cliches or types, and most of what you think will happen is what in fact happens. The open ending will leave fans hoping for another installment. But if you love the thrill of a stolen kiss and the swoosh of an elaborate gown, this is a fine choice that delivers on those counts.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why romances like The Betrothed are so popular. What do we enjoy about them? Do they teach us about romance in real life?
What are some of your favorite romance novels? How does this one compare?
Have you read any other books by Kiera Cass? Which was your favorite? If not, would you like to now?
Book Details
- Author: Kiera Cass
- Genre: Romance
- Topics: Friendship
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: HarperTeen
- Publication date: May 5, 2020
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 13 - 17
- Number of pages: 320
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: May 15, 2020
Our Editors Recommend
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The Selection, Book 1
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