The Spare and the Heir (Crowns & Courtships, #6)

by Carol Moncado

[phyllish]

I have read every book Carol Moncado has written. And in each one, I’m amazed at the way she ties each of the stories together, even if only in a small way. It makes it fun because you get to see characters popping in unexpectedly.

I was touched by Gabe’s feelings of worthlessness. As “the spare”, he was only important to his country if his brother died with no heir. As the second son, he felt as if he was expendable to his family as well, though that was more just the way his parents were (and his grandparents!) It didn’t help matters that his engagement was arranged and the only reason he got to marry the heir, Esme, was a treaty that required it.

Esme felt trapped into a marriage with Gabe. Because of his reputation, she really wanted nothing to do with him. Despite his claim that he had changed, she had a hard time trusting him. Yet he showed such kindness and care towards her that she began to hope.

As with the other stories in the Crowns and Courtships stories, this one had many tidbits scattered throughout about protocol in royal families that were interesting. I liked Gabe and Esme and wanted things to work out between them.

While the story was good, it did seem to drag a little in places. It might be for the same reason I’m not a huge fan of Downton Abbey, so I’m sure this is just my preference and not the book itself. While there was some mystery and drama, I would have liked a little more throughout instead of it mostly occurring towards the end. Also, I wasn’t entirely convinced that Gabe would have adopted the lifestyle he did for the reasons he did. Perhaps, but it seemed a bit overkill to me.

If you are a fan of books about royalty and enjoy serial dramas, you will likely greatly enjoy this series.


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I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.