The Pretender

by Katie Ward

[Lynn]

The Pretender is an enchanting novel. Set in France, it's a modern retelling of the classic Prince and the Pauper.

Sophia Lazarus escaped her abusive childhood by attending boarding school. Now, after celebrating her eighteenth birthday and finishing her last term at school, she goes back to her childhood home to make peace with her family. Reunited with the sister who protected her as a small child, her happiness is short-lived when her father makes it clear she's not welcome. Leaving, she revisits the place she loved to go as a small child...the palace gates, only to be met by the most unexpected person...Princess Isabelle. From that moment on, Sophia's life would never be the same again.

With the weight of the world on her shoulders, Princess Isabella feels trapped. She longs to explore and experience life beyond the palace walls and to be free. Unfortunately, her status within the French Royal family means she has to conduct her life according to royal protocol. After an argument with her father, King Henri, Isabella flees the palace but meets a young woman similar in age near to the palace gates. The result? The pair hatches a ridiculous plan by swapping identities with life-changing consequences.

I don't dip into the New Adult world very often and wasn't sure what to expect. What I found was a delightful twenty-first-century fairy tale complete with a charming prince and a villainous father. That doesn't mean the narrative is light and fluffy, far from it… The young protagonists soon learn the consequences of their actions don't always give a positive effect and not every decision ends well. The power of friendship shines through along with uncovering new responsibilities as Isabella and Sophia embark on a journey of personal discovery whilst gaining a new respect for those from differing backgrounds.

This novel has a broad reader appeal from young teens and beyond. The entertaining narrative flows at a steady pace covering some sensitive topics sympathetically, yet still manages to maintain an uplifting feel-good vibe. As with any well-regarded fairytale, there's a satisfying happy-ever-after...a perfect ending for both Sophia and Isabella.

***arc generously received courtesy of the publisher***