What do you think?
Rate this book
Queen Victoria’s Daughters #2
Seducing the Princess
Mary Hart Perry’s acclaimed series of romantic Victorian thrillers continues with Seducing the Princess, inspired by the life of Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter Beatrice. Painfully shy and lonely, convinced she is unattractive and unloved, the dutiful Princess Beatrice finally accepts that she will never marry and vows to devote herself to the queen in Victoria's waning years. In fact, her mother has secretly discouraged suitors for Beatrice’s hand. Just when she has all but given up on love and happiness, she meets Henry Battenberg, a dashing nobleman from the Continent who matches wits with the aging Victoria and risks his life and liberty to woo Bea.
But Henry isn't the only man interested in being welcomed into Beatrice's bed. The timid princess has become the target of a cruel plot hatched by her nephew, the madman destined to become the last Emperor of Germany. Wilhelm II sends a ruthless agent, a charming Scot, to seduce the naive princess and spy on the queen. How can the sheltered princess hope to fend off a man capable of murder, and perhaps worse, to get what he wants? But Beatrice is not without her own allies--her older sister Louise and Louise's American soldier-of-fortune and lover, Stephen Byrne. Will Beatrice discover which of the two men pursuing her she can trust, before it's too late? Drama, romance and peril chase the royal family from Buckingham Palace to a storm besieged castle on the Isle of Wight.
But Henry isn't the only man interested in being welcomed into Beatrice's bed. The timid princess has become the target of a cruel plot hatched by her nephew, the madman destined to become the last Emperor of Germany. Wilhelm II sends a ruthless agent, a charming Scot, to seduce the naive princess and spy on the queen. How can the sheltered princess hope to fend off a man capable of murder, and perhaps worse, to get what he wants? But Beatrice is not without her own allies--her older sister Louise and Louise's American soldier-of-fortune and lover, Stephen Byrne. Will Beatrice discover which of the two men pursuing her she can trust, before it's too late? Drama, romance and peril chase the royal family from Buckingham Palace to a storm besieged castle on the Isle of Wight.
332 pages, ebook
First published March 5, 2013
37 people are currently reading
607 people want to read
About the author
Mary Hart Perry
6 books78 followersMary Hart Perry is a penname for Kathryn Kimball Johnson. So far, her novels have been romantic Victorian thrillers. Mary loves 19th-century clothing, jewelry, London, royalty, castles and disappearing into that distant era whenever possible through her stories. Mary/Kathryn currently lives in the Washington, DC area with her husband and two feline writing partners.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 42 reviews
July 21, 2016
C+ at AAR; 3.5 stars
I admit that although I found this book to be reasonably enjoyable, I found it difficult to rate and review. It’s certainly a historical novel, but it’s neither straight Historical Romance nor Historical Fiction. In fact, in her foreword, the author states that “Although some of the characters were inspired by the lives of real people, the story itself is an invention of the author’s imagination.” What the book turns out to be is part romance, part thriller; a “what if?” story, taking as its principal character Princess Beatrice, the youngest daughter of Queen Victoria.
The plot is simple. At the age of twenty-seven, and somewhat shy and downtrodden, Beatrice feels herself to be firmly on the shelf. Her siblings are all married and living their own lives, but she remains with her mother, acting as her companion and finding the constant solemnity of the court depressing. She despairs of ever having a life, husband, and family of her own until she meets the handsome Prince Henry of Battenburg. He is the first man ever to show an interest in her and they quickly become friends. It is not long before the pair are falling in love, but when Henry asks the queen’s permission to marry Beatrice, Victoria is furious, and promptly forbids him to set foot in England ever again.
In the meantime, Victoria’s grandson Wilhelm (later Kaiser Wilhelm II) hatches a plot to infiltrate Victoria’s court. His aspirations towards an Empire are well documented as being one of the major causes of the First World War, so the idea that he hates and distrusts the English establishment and people is certainly plausible. He plans to plant a spy within Victoria’s family circle by finding someone to seduce and marry his aunt Beatrice, and to this end recruits an old schoolmate, Gregory MacAlister, the handsome third son of an impoverished Scottish laird. Knowing of Victoria’s fondness for her former gillie, John Brown, Wilhelm reasons that a Scotsman will be likely to evoke memories of Brown and therefore have a head start in gaining the trust of the queen and her daughter.
MacAlister duly worms his way into a position working in the royal stables. Charming and handsome, he becomes Beatrice’s regular escort on her daily rides, and although she is heartbroken over her mother’s dismissal of Henry’s suit, she is nonetheless attracted to the new groom, and he becomes her confidante.
There is much to enjoy in the story. It’s generally well-written, although there were certain passages and turns of phrase that felt anachronistic – for example, I really can’t imagine Queen Victoria thinking that anything was “just fine” or picture her riding “on aways”. There was one very silly scene in which Beatrice’s maid confronts MacAlister – clearly, she hasn’t read the memo about what happens to characters who secretly meet the bad guy in order to tell him they want out!
Beatrice is probably the most well-rounded character in the book. Starting out as a rather dowdy old-maid type, she begins to question her mother’s actions, and to gain more confidence in herself and her right to have her own life. Unfortunately Henry is rather two-dimensional as dashing heroes go, and I have to say that both MacAlister and Wilhelm were stereotypical in their villainy.
Victoria is frequently presented as a selfish, domineering mother. She tells Beatrice that her refusal to allow Henry’s suit was to save her (Beatrice) from the indignities of the marriage bed and the trial of constant pregnancies, whereas of course, Beatrice believes it is because Victoria wants her to remain with her for the rest of her life, to be a companion to her in old age. Nonetheless, she is still torn between her duty to her mother who does, after all, have a country and an empire to govern (and a Prime Minister she doesn’t like in Mr Gladstone) and her desire for marriage and a life of her own.
The book references certain historical events, such as the unrest in India, and the massacre at Khartoum in the Sudan, so there is no doubt that the author has researched her setting thoroughly.
If, however, you are looking to read a piece of historical fiction based closely on the life of Princess Beatrice, this may not be the book for you. In most HF, authors have to invent some scenes because of a lack of evidence or documentation, assigning motivations to their characters and creating details like conversations which may or may not have taken place in order to propel the drama. This is not really the case here, as despite the use of actual historical figures in principal roles, the story presented iscompletely fictional. It’s true that Beatrice did indeed marry Henry Battenburg and after their marriage, they both lived and travelled with Victoria at her request. Wilhelm was certainly somewhat unhinged – jealous of the British Empire and the Navy; and, because of a physical disability, felt the need to prove himself at every turn. The author has cleverly integrated historical fact into her story, but the focus is the fictional plot rather than known events.
If you’re in the mood for a straightforward, well-told story that has plenty of period flavour and can accept the author’s disclaimer that this is a ‘made-up’ story about the British royals, then you could do a lot worse than read Seducing the Princess.
I admit that although I found this book to be reasonably enjoyable, I found it difficult to rate and review. It’s certainly a historical novel, but it’s neither straight Historical Romance nor Historical Fiction. In fact, in her foreword, the author states that “Although some of the characters were inspired by the lives of real people, the story itself is an invention of the author’s imagination.” What the book turns out to be is part romance, part thriller; a “what if?” story, taking as its principal character Princess Beatrice, the youngest daughter of Queen Victoria.
The plot is simple. At the age of twenty-seven, and somewhat shy and downtrodden, Beatrice feels herself to be firmly on the shelf. Her siblings are all married and living their own lives, but she remains with her mother, acting as her companion and finding the constant solemnity of the court depressing. She despairs of ever having a life, husband, and family of her own until she meets the handsome Prince Henry of Battenburg. He is the first man ever to show an interest in her and they quickly become friends. It is not long before the pair are falling in love, but when Henry asks the queen’s permission to marry Beatrice, Victoria is furious, and promptly forbids him to set foot in England ever again.
In the meantime, Victoria’s grandson Wilhelm (later Kaiser Wilhelm II) hatches a plot to infiltrate Victoria’s court. His aspirations towards an Empire are well documented as being one of the major causes of the First World War, so the idea that he hates and distrusts the English establishment and people is certainly plausible. He plans to plant a spy within Victoria’s family circle by finding someone to seduce and marry his aunt Beatrice, and to this end recruits an old schoolmate, Gregory MacAlister, the handsome third son of an impoverished Scottish laird. Knowing of Victoria’s fondness for her former gillie, John Brown, Wilhelm reasons that a Scotsman will be likely to evoke memories of Brown and therefore have a head start in gaining the trust of the queen and her daughter.
MacAlister duly worms his way into a position working in the royal stables. Charming and handsome, he becomes Beatrice’s regular escort on her daily rides, and although she is heartbroken over her mother’s dismissal of Henry’s suit, she is nonetheless attracted to the new groom, and he becomes her confidante.
There is much to enjoy in the story. It’s generally well-written, although there were certain passages and turns of phrase that felt anachronistic – for example, I really can’t imagine Queen Victoria thinking that anything was “just fine” or picture her riding “on aways”. There was one very silly scene in which Beatrice’s maid confronts MacAlister – clearly, she hasn’t read the memo about what happens to characters who secretly meet the bad guy in order to tell him they want out!
Beatrice is probably the most well-rounded character in the book. Starting out as a rather dowdy old-maid type, she begins to question her mother’s actions, and to gain more confidence in herself and her right to have her own life. Unfortunately Henry is rather two-dimensional as dashing heroes go, and I have to say that both MacAlister and Wilhelm were stereotypical in their villainy.
Victoria is frequently presented as a selfish, domineering mother. She tells Beatrice that her refusal to allow Henry’s suit was to save her (Beatrice) from the indignities of the marriage bed and the trial of constant pregnancies, whereas of course, Beatrice believes it is because Victoria wants her to remain with her for the rest of her life, to be a companion to her in old age. Nonetheless, she is still torn between her duty to her mother who does, after all, have a country and an empire to govern (and a Prime Minister she doesn’t like in Mr Gladstone) and her desire for marriage and a life of her own.
The book references certain historical events, such as the unrest in India, and the massacre at Khartoum in the Sudan, so there is no doubt that the author has researched her setting thoroughly.
If, however, you are looking to read a piece of historical fiction based closely on the life of Princess Beatrice, this may not be the book for you. In most HF, authors have to invent some scenes because of a lack of evidence or documentation, assigning motivations to their characters and creating details like conversations which may or may not have taken place in order to propel the drama. This is not really the case here, as despite the use of actual historical figures in principal roles, the story presented iscompletely fictional. It’s true that Beatrice did indeed marry Henry Battenburg and after their marriage, they both lived and travelled with Victoria at her request. Wilhelm was certainly somewhat unhinged – jealous of the British Empire and the Navy; and, because of a physical disability, felt the need to prove himself at every turn. The author has cleverly integrated historical fact into her story, but the focus is the fictional plot rather than known events.
If you’re in the mood for a straightforward, well-told story that has plenty of period flavour and can accept the author’s disclaimer that this is a ‘made-up’ story about the British royals, then you could do a lot worse than read Seducing the Princess.
June 12, 2013
Very nice historical novel about Victoria and Albert's youngest daughter. She was truly the bird in a gilded cage, hostage to her mother, although she eventually was allowed to marry and enjoy a few years of wedded happiness.
June 19, 2013
Review originally posted on Bibliophilia, Please.
Last year I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing The Wild Princess by Mary Hart Perry. It was an enjoyable read that left me eager to read Perry's other novels about the Victorian princesses. When I was given the opportunity to review Seducing the Princess , I jumped at it.
As a history major, I've read a good bit about Queen Victoria and her family, but I always found her immediate family to be a bit dull. (Seriously, how can you compete with the craziness and drama of the Middle Ages?) Perry's first novel piqued my interest in the family, and Seducing the Princess did not disappoint. Princess Beatrice, known to her family as "Baby", seems to be stuck in her situation of being the eternal companion of her mother Queen Victoria. She soon finds herself with two suitors, Prince Henry of Battenberg and Gregory MacAlister, a minor Scottish nobleman sent by Wilhelm II of Germany. It was not until after I finished the novel that I realized the historical accuracy (with some fictionalization for effect, of course) of the novel, as I am not familiar with the details of Victoria and her children's personal lives.
As for the story in Seducing the Princess itself, I was very pleased. I connected to Beatrice almost immediately. As the oldest unmarried female in my family and still living at home, I definitely understood how she felt. She was nowhere near as clumsy, ignorant, or dull as she was perceived to be, and I felt just as frustrated as her when she was treated as such. Her suitors, Henry and Gregory, were just as compelling in their own ways. Henry truly cared about Beatrice, and that was made evident from the beginning. On the other hand, Gregory was a nasty villain that I enjoyed detesting. He did a lot of really awful things, the least of which being spying and attempting to seduce Princess Beatrice. There was a lot of drama, but it only served to make the book extremely difficult to put down. I may have used Wikipedia to cheat and see what happened with Beatrice near the beginning of the novel, but it did not lessen my enjoyment.
Overall, I found Seducing the Princess to be just as good as The Wild Princess , and Mary Hart Perry is now one of the historical romantic fiction authors that I will automatically read when I see her work. I recommend this novel to any reader of the genre, and I am looking forward to Perry's next book about Queen Victoria's daughters.
To satisfy FTC guidelines, I am disclosing that I received an ecopy of the book from the publisher or author via Innovative Online Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. It has in no way affected the outcome. All opinions expressed are rambling, honest, and completely my own.
Last year I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing The Wild Princess by Mary Hart Perry. It was an enjoyable read that left me eager to read Perry's other novels about the Victorian princesses. When I was given the opportunity to review Seducing the Princess , I jumped at it.
As a history major, I've read a good bit about Queen Victoria and her family, but I always found her immediate family to be a bit dull. (Seriously, how can you compete with the craziness and drama of the Middle Ages?) Perry's first novel piqued my interest in the family, and Seducing the Princess did not disappoint. Princess Beatrice, known to her family as "Baby", seems to be stuck in her situation of being the eternal companion of her mother Queen Victoria. She soon finds herself with two suitors, Prince Henry of Battenberg and Gregory MacAlister, a minor Scottish nobleman sent by Wilhelm II of Germany. It was not until after I finished the novel that I realized the historical accuracy (with some fictionalization for effect, of course) of the novel, as I am not familiar with the details of Victoria and her children's personal lives.
As for the story in Seducing the Princess itself, I was very pleased. I connected to Beatrice almost immediately. As the oldest unmarried female in my family and still living at home, I definitely understood how she felt. She was nowhere near as clumsy, ignorant, or dull as she was perceived to be, and I felt just as frustrated as her when she was treated as such. Her suitors, Henry and Gregory, were just as compelling in their own ways. Henry truly cared about Beatrice, and that was made evident from the beginning. On the other hand, Gregory was a nasty villain that I enjoyed detesting. He did a lot of really awful things, the least of which being spying and attempting to seduce Princess Beatrice. There was a lot of drama, but it only served to make the book extremely difficult to put down. I may have used Wikipedia to cheat and see what happened with Beatrice near the beginning of the novel, but it did not lessen my enjoyment.
Overall, I found Seducing the Princess to be just as good as The Wild Princess , and Mary Hart Perry is now one of the historical romantic fiction authors that I will automatically read when I see her work. I recommend this novel to any reader of the genre, and I am looking forward to Perry's next book about Queen Victoria's daughters.
To satisfy FTC guidelines, I am disclosing that I received an ecopy of the book from the publisher or author via Innovative Online Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. It has in no way affected the outcome. All opinions expressed are rambling, honest, and completely my own.
April 8, 2013
Perry captivates this era perfectly. She didn’t miss a single piece of information. This goes right down to the fact that the American character was wearing a Stetson about 20 years after the company was founded. Relationships and individuals were also developed based on the era in which the novel took place. It really added to the realism of the novel.
I commend Perry on the fact that she managed to write a thrilling romance novel without any R rated scenes. It was the storyline, not the lack of clothing that had me enthralled. It was a very nice change of pace and it kept me utterly captivated throughout. On top of that, this novel was very well written and the storyline was intricately put together. The descriptions and scenes that Perry creates subtly highlight certain elements that will become important further into the story. She doesn’t simply write her story, but paints a canvas for her characters to walk and dance across.
The characters in this novel are fully developed. Their development is never one sided. It is physical, historical, emotional, and personal. They are so developed that you can feel what they are feeling and can understand where their actions are coming from, even if you wouldn’t have followed the same route yourself. You find your heart going out to the main characters and hoping against hope that all will be well.
As a whole, this was a brilliant read. It is one of those novels that you finish reading and then somehow realize that it’s gotten dark out and that you should have gone to bed hours ago.
Please note that I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I commend Perry on the fact that she managed to write a thrilling romance novel without any R rated scenes. It was the storyline, not the lack of clothing that had me enthralled. It was a very nice change of pace and it kept me utterly captivated throughout. On top of that, this novel was very well written and the storyline was intricately put together. The descriptions and scenes that Perry creates subtly highlight certain elements that will become important further into the story. She doesn’t simply write her story, but paints a canvas for her characters to walk and dance across.
The characters in this novel are fully developed. Their development is never one sided. It is physical, historical, emotional, and personal. They are so developed that you can feel what they are feeling and can understand where their actions are coming from, even if you wouldn’t have followed the same route yourself. You find your heart going out to the main characters and hoping against hope that all will be well.
As a whole, this was a brilliant read. It is one of those novels that you finish reading and then somehow realize that it’s gotten dark out and that you should have gone to bed hours ago.
Please note that I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2013
This novel really surprised me. I confess, I had a few moments I wanted to chuck it. Now, I like to read about strong heroines, and Beatrice aka Baby is not one...I found it ridiculous an almost thirty-year-old woman letting her mama pick her clothes and control her live down to the minute, queen of England be damned.
It was a big eye-rolling at times...but the more I read, the more engrossed I became. I'm glad I stuck with it. The story line...I suppose it isn't really unique: man wants to seduce the princess to obtain a life of luxury without lifting a hand to earn it. BUT many a man in real life has had the same agenda...so it comes as no surprise a young man infiltrates the royal stables to get close to the last unwed princess, though there's more to it then just his own motivation...someone in the queen's only family is urging this move...
I'm not done. My full thoughts are here: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2013/...
It was a big eye-rolling at times...but the more I read, the more engrossed I became. I'm glad I stuck with it. The story line...I suppose it isn't really unique: man wants to seduce the princess to obtain a life of luxury without lifting a hand to earn it. BUT many a man in real life has had the same agenda...so it comes as no surprise a young man infiltrates the royal stables to get close to the last unwed princess, though there's more to it then just his own motivation...someone in the queen's only family is urging this move...
I'm not done. My full thoughts are here: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2013/...
August 28, 2013
**I was given a free copy from the publisher, for exchange of an honest review**
I have to admit, I did not expect to love this one like I did!
This is truly a gem of a book for those that love historical fiction & romance.
Beatrice is the Queens youngest daughter. She has been by her mother's side all her life and has never known love or any adventures outside the palace walls. She develops feelings for Henry who the Queen does not see as a good suitor for her daughter. Wilhem Beatrice's nephew comes up with a devilish plan to get in the royal court. In comes Gregory to be a part of his plan. Oh boy is Gregory a mean one! What he does really surprises me! There is a lot of action and suspense in this book and I would have finished it sooner had I not had so much work to do. I highly recommend this one! LOVED IT 5 stars all the way!!
I have to admit, I did not expect to love this one like I did!
This is truly a gem of a book for those that love historical fiction & romance.
Beatrice is the Queens youngest daughter. She has been by her mother's side all her life and has never known love or any adventures outside the palace walls. She develops feelings for Henry who the Queen does not see as a good suitor for her daughter. Wilhem Beatrice's nephew comes up with a devilish plan to get in the royal court. In comes Gregory to be a part of his plan. Oh boy is Gregory a mean one! What he does really surprises me! There is a lot of action and suspense in this book and I would have finished it sooner had I not had so much work to do. I highly recommend this one! LOVED IT 5 stars all the way!!
March 6, 2013
Mary Hart Perry has done it again. Weaving love and loss betwixt facts and lore of the Victorian Regency period, historical fiction lovers have something here to savor.
Born into certain spinsterhood by being forced to care for her mother, Queen Victoria, princess Beatrice believes she is destined to live out the rest of her Plain Jane life without love and without passion. That is, until the moment she is faced with not one, but two, suitors.
The narrative never wanes and keeps one interested at every turn of the page. At $2.99, it is a bookishly delectable value.
Born into certain spinsterhood by being forced to care for her mother, Queen Victoria, princess Beatrice believes she is destined to live out the rest of her Plain Jane life without love and without passion. That is, until the moment she is faced with not one, but two, suitors.
The narrative never wanes and keeps one interested at every turn of the page. At $2.99, it is a bookishly delectable value.
July 6, 2019
So even though a lot of this was not historically accurate and a little cheesy, I still enjoyed the story.
January 2, 2017
This review first appeared on I Heart Romance & YA
My Rating
Heat Level
Facebook Event
Giveaway
Read the full review on I Heart Romance & YA
Mary Hart Perry is a new to me author and Seducing the Princess is the first book that I read. I was thoroughly blown away! I loved reading about Queen Victoria's youngest daughter, Princess Beatrice. Of course, I did a quick google search on her to read more about her and her life with the Queen. I am amazed at how the author seamlessly intertwined Princess Beatrice's story with the facts surrounding her love match with Henry Battenberg.
The story was well written and I empathized with Princess Beatrice. Queen Victoria really seemed like the villain of the story. I can just imagine how hard it was for Beatrice growing up as her mother's shadow. The way the Queen treated Beatrice struck a chord in me and I could not help but hate the Queen for doing this to her youngest daughter. Beatrice comes off as an obedient and meek daughter, only following what the Queen commands her to do but deep inside, she cannot wait to leave and have a life of her own. This happens when she meets and falls in love with Henry.
Henry and Beatrice's love story was really sweet, I thought. I love the way that he went out of his way to get to know the Princess and helping her overcome her shyness and become a strong woman. I have to point out that all the characters are well developed and I find that this help drive the whole plot of the story. I felt that I knew them and that I was one of the Queen's daughters.
I also loved that there was another villain in the story in the form of Prince Gregory, another cousin. I like to think that a good story has to have a good villain and Gregory really fit the bill to a T. Although there is a minor villain in the form of Queen Victoria, I cannot see her as the ultimate villain even if she plays a part preventing a romance between Beatrice and Henry.
I recommend this book to readers who love Philippa Gregory.
My Rating
Heat Level
Facebook Event
Running March 31st to April 4th With an all day hoopla on April 2nd to celebrate the release of “Seducing the Princess”
Join Mary Hart Perry and Vickie Ann in celebrating the launch of Seducing the Princess. Mary Hart Perry will be doing random giveaways at this event, so keep an eye out for prizes and help spread the word!!!
Don't miss the fun! Invite your friends to join in! And ask Vickie how to get Seducing the Princess for free in exchange for an honest review on Amazon. Vickie@iobooktours.com
Giveaway
2 $10.00 Gift Cards
Read the full review on I Heart Romance & YA
April 1, 2013
The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I received a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.
Princess Beatrice aka "Baby" to her mother has been a companion to her mother, Queen Victoria since the age of four when her father died. The Queen has never completely gotten over the loss of her husband. She is very afraid that she will lose her "Baby" and she will be left all alone. This is why she has always discouraged any gentlemen callers that the Princess had. Princess Beatrice didn't know that her mother had scared away any man that had ever had any interest in her. She thought that she was ugly and unlovable until she met Henry Battenberg, a very handsome man. Princess Bea and Henry fall in love through writing letters after Princess Bea and the Queen return home.
After asking Princess Bea to marry him and she says yes he decides that he is going to ask the Queen for her hand in marriage. Princess Bea knows this will not be an easy feat to confront the Queen. She knows that her mother is still morning and still needs her around. Princess Bea thinks it would be best if she tried to warn her mother about Henry coming. She tells her mother that he is coming and why. The Queen tells her in no uncertain terms and tries to explain to the Princess that men are evil creatures. They will pretend to love and care for you in the beginning but before long they will have a mistress and will never be around. Men only want women as a baby making factory. But this is not what Henry wants from Bea and she knows this. Bea tries to tell her mother that he really does love her but she will not listen.
Henry arrives and approaches the Queen before Bea has a chance to warn him about her confrontation with her mother. The Queen tells him in front of a big crowd that she will never give her blessing for him to marry her "Baby". The Queen banishes him from England. Bea is very upset but she lives with her mother's decision for a while. Then she decides that she deserves to be happy and loved just like anyone else and is determined to be happy no matter what her mother says. But she will do this in a way that is very proper for that time period. Henry and Bea cannot do the improper thing and then the Queen would probably let them marry. But doing things that way would cause a scandal and Henry would never do anything like that to Bea. He only wants Bea to be happy and have the life she deserves.
While Henry is a gentleman that does not mean that every man is. Gregory, a Scott is sent by Bea's nephew Wilhelm II the last Emperor of Germany to seduce Bea and spy on the Queen. Gregory is a very charming man and he charms the Princess into believing that he is a gentleman. But he is not a gentleman by a long shot. He is like in Henry in that he will do whatever it takes to get Bea to marry him. But the difference is that he doesn't love Bea and he will hurt Bea or anyone that gets his way. Will Bea figure out what kind of person Gregory is before it is too late? Will Bea and Henry get the Queen's blessing to marry? Will Bea ever get the happiness she deserves?
It has been awhile since I read a historical romance book. I have been into paranormal romance for a long time now and have not wanted to read anything else. But I am glad that I decide to read Seducing the Princess. I have in ways missed the historical romance books. I love the era in which they are written. This is one era if I could that I would like to travel back in time to visit. Seducing the Princess is a very superbly written novel one that I do suggest that you give a try if you are into historical romance or if like me you use to read them but have not read one in a while. Seducing the Princess is a good one to start with.
Princess Beatrice aka "Baby" to her mother has been a companion to her mother, Queen Victoria since the age of four when her father died. The Queen has never completely gotten over the loss of her husband. She is very afraid that she will lose her "Baby" and she will be left all alone. This is why she has always discouraged any gentlemen callers that the Princess had. Princess Beatrice didn't know that her mother had scared away any man that had ever had any interest in her. She thought that she was ugly and unlovable until she met Henry Battenberg, a very handsome man. Princess Bea and Henry fall in love through writing letters after Princess Bea and the Queen return home.
After asking Princess Bea to marry him and she says yes he decides that he is going to ask the Queen for her hand in marriage. Princess Bea knows this will not be an easy feat to confront the Queen. She knows that her mother is still morning and still needs her around. Princess Bea thinks it would be best if she tried to warn her mother about Henry coming. She tells her mother that he is coming and why. The Queen tells her in no uncertain terms and tries to explain to the Princess that men are evil creatures. They will pretend to love and care for you in the beginning but before long they will have a mistress and will never be around. Men only want women as a baby making factory. But this is not what Henry wants from Bea and she knows this. Bea tries to tell her mother that he really does love her but she will not listen.
Henry arrives and approaches the Queen before Bea has a chance to warn him about her confrontation with her mother. The Queen tells him in front of a big crowd that she will never give her blessing for him to marry her "Baby". The Queen banishes him from England. Bea is very upset but she lives with her mother's decision for a while. Then she decides that she deserves to be happy and loved just like anyone else and is determined to be happy no matter what her mother says. But she will do this in a way that is very proper for that time period. Henry and Bea cannot do the improper thing and then the Queen would probably let them marry. But doing things that way would cause a scandal and Henry would never do anything like that to Bea. He only wants Bea to be happy and have the life she deserves.
While Henry is a gentleman that does not mean that every man is. Gregory, a Scott is sent by Bea's nephew Wilhelm II the last Emperor of Germany to seduce Bea and spy on the Queen. Gregory is a very charming man and he charms the Princess into believing that he is a gentleman. But he is not a gentleman by a long shot. He is like in Henry in that he will do whatever it takes to get Bea to marry him. But the difference is that he doesn't love Bea and he will hurt Bea or anyone that gets his way. Will Bea figure out what kind of person Gregory is before it is too late? Will Bea and Henry get the Queen's blessing to marry? Will Bea ever get the happiness she deserves?
It has been awhile since I read a historical romance book. I have been into paranormal romance for a long time now and have not wanted to read anything else. But I am glad that I decide to read Seducing the Princess. I have in ways missed the historical romance books. I love the era in which they are written. This is one era if I could that I would like to travel back in time to visit. Seducing the Princess is a very superbly written novel one that I do suggest that you give a try if you are into historical romance or if like me you use to read them but have not read one in a while. Seducing the Princess is a good one to start with.
March 26, 2013
My full review can be found at my blog A Secret Book Affair
Although I would definitely classify this novel as an adult fiction with romance, I will point out immediately that it is very well reserved. You will not find many racy moments in this title, but there are still many sexual references, some adult language, and sensual scenes throughout the book. I only mention all of this now, so as to 'clear the air' so to speak. I review a variety of genres, including YA and adult romances, so I just want to make sure it is clear to everyone that this title is somewhat in between the two; it is most definitely not a YA book, but also not necessarily an adult romance either.
Okay, now that that is clear, on to the review. To start I found this title absolutely charming and captivating. It was a combination of so many things that I couldn't stop reading. Seducing the Princess is a very well written novel that I constantly found witty, thrilling, and a tad bit adventurous. Perry did a superb job of connecting the readers to the main characters emotions; there are moments where I swear you can feel poor Bea's frustrations rolling out of the pages. There are also moments throughout the book where you, as the reader, know facts that the characters have yet to discover, and you find yourself wanting to yell at the characters for their choices, much like watching a scary movie when the victim walks into a trap. As irritating as this can be, this is what makes this title such a great read; the frustration pushes you forward in reading, hoping the characters will wise up and see the world and other characters for what they really are.
The characters themselves are well developed. Seducing the Princess had a wide variety of characters, and all served their own purpose to the story line. I found the Queen to be frustrating and at times irritating, but at other times quite enduring. You can tell she has personal motives for keeping her daughter to herself, and yet at the same time she truly fears the worst for Bea and feels she is saving her from a lifetime of pain and heartbreak. It was truly a pleasure to read and watch Bea break away from the expectations held above her, and to become a strong independent woman. Henry and Gregory were both the perfect male counterparts to encourage the growth in Bea, both serving their own purposes to different aspects of the princess's personality changes. I won't spoil the story and give further details about the men in the story.
Overall, I was thoroughly enchanted by Perry's Seducing the Princess, and would definitely recommend it as a choice to read. If you love historical fiction with a heap of romance and a dash of thrills and adventure, then this is definitely a title for your shelf.
Although I would definitely classify this novel as an adult fiction with romance, I will point out immediately that it is very well reserved. You will not find many racy moments in this title, but there are still many sexual references, some adult language, and sensual scenes throughout the book. I only mention all of this now, so as to 'clear the air' so to speak. I review a variety of genres, including YA and adult romances, so I just want to make sure it is clear to everyone that this title is somewhat in between the two; it is most definitely not a YA book, but also not necessarily an adult romance either.
Okay, now that that is clear, on to the review. To start I found this title absolutely charming and captivating. It was a combination of so many things that I couldn't stop reading. Seducing the Princess is a very well written novel that I constantly found witty, thrilling, and a tad bit adventurous. Perry did a superb job of connecting the readers to the main characters emotions; there are moments where I swear you can feel poor Bea's frustrations rolling out of the pages. There are also moments throughout the book where you, as the reader, know facts that the characters have yet to discover, and you find yourself wanting to yell at the characters for their choices, much like watching a scary movie when the victim walks into a trap. As irritating as this can be, this is what makes this title such a great read; the frustration pushes you forward in reading, hoping the characters will wise up and see the world and other characters for what they really are.
The characters themselves are well developed. Seducing the Princess had a wide variety of characters, and all served their own purpose to the story line. I found the Queen to be frustrating and at times irritating, but at other times quite enduring. You can tell she has personal motives for keeping her daughter to herself, and yet at the same time she truly fears the worst for Bea and feels she is saving her from a lifetime of pain and heartbreak. It was truly a pleasure to read and watch Bea break away from the expectations held above her, and to become a strong independent woman. Henry and Gregory were both the perfect male counterparts to encourage the growth in Bea, both serving their own purposes to different aspects of the princess's personality changes. I won't spoil the story and give further details about the men in the story.
Overall, I was thoroughly enchanted by Perry's Seducing the Princess, and would definitely recommend it as a choice to read. If you love historical fiction with a heap of romance and a dash of thrills and adventure, then this is definitely a title for your shelf.
April 2, 2013
The youngest of Queen Victoria's daughter's, Beatrice has spent most of her life living in her mother's shadow's. Whatever her mother needs, she's attended to without question. Though, she's yearned to have a life of her on own on occasion. Something she knows her mother will never grant her.
When she meets the wonderful Henry Battenburg on the eve of her niece's wedding, Beatrice is flattered by his attentions. She's never had a man spend so much time with her, much less tell her the things he's told her, or make her feel so beautiful. She knows her mother won't approve of such dalliances, but she can't help herself. Henry intrigues her, and she wants nothing more than to get to know him. Deep inside, she knows she cares for her him deeply, and would like to have a life with him. Unfortunately, getting the Queen on her side is an entirely different matter.
Prince Gregory's appearance soon throws her life in limbo. He's gorgeous, charming, and knows exactly what to say or do in order to make her feel better. Yet he's not Henry. No one will ever take his place. She's sure of it. Until the moment when Gregory starts getting under her skin. Only then does she start to question exactly what she feels for both men.
Doing her best to please the Queen whenever possible, she finds it hard to deny the stirrings of her own part. Most especially when it comes to Henry. For the sake of the crown, she knows she'll need to do exactly as her mother asks. Yet there's no harm in being who she is, and allowing her own heart to guide her, is there? Determined to fight for what she believes in, Beatrice will do anything to find the happiness that eludes her, including going against her mother's wishes in order to achieve that which she desires.
This was a great addition to this series. I enjoyed it immensely. Beatrice is Victoria's willful and ever obedient daughter. There's nothing she wouldn't do for her mother. Unfortunately, the Queen can't quite see that. It saddened me to see Victoria so adamant in wanting to keep Beatrice by her side. To see her deny her daughter's wishes time and time again. Granted, times were different back then, and Victoria was only doing what she thought right when it came to Beatrice and other her daughter's.
Mary has beautifully captured the essence of Victorian times, projecting the love and uncertainties each character experiences to the maximum. She's crafted a world that portrays Victorian life in a way that makes the reader want to be a part of it. To want to experience what the characters are going through in more ways than one. I look forward to what comes next for the series itself.
When she meets the wonderful Henry Battenburg on the eve of her niece's wedding, Beatrice is flattered by his attentions. She's never had a man spend so much time with her, much less tell her the things he's told her, or make her feel so beautiful. She knows her mother won't approve of such dalliances, but she can't help herself. Henry intrigues her, and she wants nothing more than to get to know him. Deep inside, she knows she cares for her him deeply, and would like to have a life with him. Unfortunately, getting the Queen on her side is an entirely different matter.
Prince Gregory's appearance soon throws her life in limbo. He's gorgeous, charming, and knows exactly what to say or do in order to make her feel better. Yet he's not Henry. No one will ever take his place. She's sure of it. Until the moment when Gregory starts getting under her skin. Only then does she start to question exactly what she feels for both men.
Doing her best to please the Queen whenever possible, she finds it hard to deny the stirrings of her own part. Most especially when it comes to Henry. For the sake of the crown, she knows she'll need to do exactly as her mother asks. Yet there's no harm in being who she is, and allowing her own heart to guide her, is there? Determined to fight for what she believes in, Beatrice will do anything to find the happiness that eludes her, including going against her mother's wishes in order to achieve that which she desires.
This was a great addition to this series. I enjoyed it immensely. Beatrice is Victoria's willful and ever obedient daughter. There's nothing she wouldn't do for her mother. Unfortunately, the Queen can't quite see that. It saddened me to see Victoria so adamant in wanting to keep Beatrice by her side. To see her deny her daughter's wishes time and time again. Granted, times were different back then, and Victoria was only doing what she thought right when it came to Beatrice and other her daughter's.
Mary has beautifully captured the essence of Victorian times, projecting the love and uncertainties each character experiences to the maximum. She's crafted a world that portrays Victorian life in a way that makes the reader want to be a part of it. To want to experience what the characters are going through in more ways than one. I look forward to what comes next for the series itself.
June 2, 2013
Overall Thoughts:
Such a beautifully developed and well thought-out story! The characters and plot will encapsulate you until you're fully immersed in its world.
Seducing the Princess is about the Queen of England's youngest daughter, 27-year-old Beatrice. She's spent the entirety of her life, servicing to her mother's every need and command - never venturing out into the world on her own and pursuing her dreams of her own life, loves, or freedom. As the story begins, readers meet young Beatrice at a point in her life where she's accepted her destiny/role as an "old maid" - never to be married and with a family like she once hoped for.
Then, while visiting Germany for her niece's wedding, she stumbles across the path of a certain blue-eyed, dark-haired man who takes her by complete surprise by showing an extreme interest in her. The gentleman goes by the name of Henry Battenberg, who was also a close childhood playmate to her when she was younger. Through lovely horseback rides in the meadow and evening walks in the garden between the pair, Beatrice finally starts to feel that passion and fire that's been missing from her life for as long as she can remember... she's finally understanding the meaning of falling in love.
But what happens when Gregory, a Scottish spy, has been sent to infiltrate the Queen's kingdom, in the hopes of seducing the youngest princess, Beatrice, into marrying him so that he may get close to the Queen herself?
What I liked about this book:
Like I said before, the plot is so well-developed and planned out that every aspect and detail was believable and completely understood. This novel is set in the late 19th century, which could be a total turn-off to some people because terminology and language can be... fickle, to say the least. But, fortunately, this novel provides you with the completely realistic illusion of being inside 19th century England without confusing you with the from-that-time-and-age slang.
Also, even though I couldn't directly relate to Beatrice's situation, I did feel and understand her shy and bashful personality. I found a lot of myself in Beatrice, which was nice. We Wallflowers gotta stick together!
What I disliked about this book:
If historical fiction isn't your preference then I wouldn't recommend this book for you because it did have a blend of fiction as well as actual historical facts. But seeing as I like HF, I liked this book as well.
If you haven't tried this genre yet, I highly recommend starting with this book!
Verdict:
This is not the first book that I've read by Mary Hart Perry, and it certainly won't be the last!
Such a beautifully developed and well thought-out story! The characters and plot will encapsulate you until you're fully immersed in its world.
Seducing the Princess is about the Queen of England's youngest daughter, 27-year-old Beatrice. She's spent the entirety of her life, servicing to her mother's every need and command - never venturing out into the world on her own and pursuing her dreams of her own life, loves, or freedom. As the story begins, readers meet young Beatrice at a point in her life where she's accepted her destiny/role as an "old maid" - never to be married and with a family like she once hoped for.
Then, while visiting Germany for her niece's wedding, she stumbles across the path of a certain blue-eyed, dark-haired man who takes her by complete surprise by showing an extreme interest in her. The gentleman goes by the name of Henry Battenberg, who was also a close childhood playmate to her when she was younger. Through lovely horseback rides in the meadow and evening walks in the garden between the pair, Beatrice finally starts to feel that passion and fire that's been missing from her life for as long as she can remember... she's finally understanding the meaning of falling in love.
But what happens when Gregory, a Scottish spy, has been sent to infiltrate the Queen's kingdom, in the hopes of seducing the youngest princess, Beatrice, into marrying him so that he may get close to the Queen herself?
What I liked about this book:
Like I said before, the plot is so well-developed and planned out that every aspect and detail was believable and completely understood. This novel is set in the late 19th century, which could be a total turn-off to some people because terminology and language can be... fickle, to say the least. But, fortunately, this novel provides you with the completely realistic illusion of being inside 19th century England without confusing you with the from-that-time-and-age slang.
Also, even though I couldn't directly relate to Beatrice's situation, I did feel and understand her shy and bashful personality. I found a lot of myself in Beatrice, which was nice. We Wallflowers gotta stick together!
What I disliked about this book:
If historical fiction isn't your preference then I wouldn't recommend this book for you because it did have a blend of fiction as well as actual historical facts. But seeing as I like HF, I liked this book as well.
If you haven't tried this genre yet, I highly recommend starting with this book!
Verdict:
This is not the first book that I've read by Mary Hart Perry, and it certainly won't be the last!
April 13, 2013
I read The Wild Princess last year and loved it. I felt pretty much the same for Seducing The Princess. It is easy to love Queen Victoria's dysfunctional family. It is also easy to dislike the Queen, not because she's such a terrible women, but because she really feels that her way is the only way, and she wants to protect her children.
Beatrice aka Baby is her youngest and she's the daughter that seems to be most like to stay unwed at her mother's side.
You couldn't help but feel sorry for her, as all of her other siblings have grown to have lives of their own and relationships be they good or bad. And when she does find love her mother forbids her from seeing him.
Geeze!
Poor Beatrice!
What I love about these books are how well researched they are. When I read any historical novel, I find myself googling things and in the case of these books, I find a lot of accuracy when it comes to the lives of Victoria and her royal children. I'm surprised there isn't more historical fiction about Victoria and her children are really intriguing people and Mary Hart Perry really brings them to life for her readers. I loved Louise in the first book, and I still loved her in this one. She's spunky and full of life which seems like a total contrast to Beatrice.
It was nice to see how the author imagined Beatrice falling in love with Henry and when you realize what this princess must have dealt with to be able to finally walk down the aisle, you're so happy for her, even if she must stay in England with her mother.
I love how she weaved the fictional part of the story in, and how well it fit with the times. Go on, google her Grandchild Wilheim.
The added villainy of Victoria's grandchild and the plot he hatches really make this a great read. I can't wait to read Crown Princess Vicky's story
Beatrice aka Baby is her youngest and she's the daughter that seems to be most like to stay unwed at her mother's side.
You couldn't help but feel sorry for her, as all of her other siblings have grown to have lives of their own and relationships be they good or bad. And when she does find love her mother forbids her from seeing him.
Geeze!
Poor Beatrice!
What I love about these books are how well researched they are. When I read any historical novel, I find myself googling things and in the case of these books, I find a lot of accuracy when it comes to the lives of Victoria and her royal children. I'm surprised there isn't more historical fiction about Victoria and her children are really intriguing people and Mary Hart Perry really brings them to life for her readers. I loved Louise in the first book, and I still loved her in this one. She's spunky and full of life which seems like a total contrast to Beatrice.
It was nice to see how the author imagined Beatrice falling in love with Henry and when you realize what this princess must have dealt with to be able to finally walk down the aisle, you're so happy for her, even if she must stay in England with her mother.
I love how she weaved the fictional part of the story in, and how well it fit with the times. Go on, google her Grandchild Wilheim.
The added villainy of Victoria's grandchild and the plot he hatches really make this a great read. I can't wait to read Crown Princess Vicky's story
March 26, 2013
Review of Seducing the Princess
Written by Mary Hart Perry
Reviewed by R. Murry
Being the Baby, the youngest in the family of many, has its advantages and disadvantages. Since I have never been in that position, I have no real understanding of how one copes being the youngest of seven. Ms. Perry’s character Baby explains, in well-constructed prose, how one felt from a Victorian prospective. It was heart breaking being the youngest daughter of Queen Victoria.
Beatrice, Bea or Baby for short, finds herself in a deserving position that she never thought would happen to her even though she is at the ripe old age of twenty seven. She has a male suitor. Most women of that era by eighteen knew about the birds and bees. You know what I mean. Bea was oblivious of the differences.
Here is where the fun in this romantic thriller begins – the seduction game a la Victorian Era. You must follow royal protocol or the Queen will chop off your head literally and or fugitively if you screw with her needs. The queen is in control of her realm and her family.
Mary Hart Perry has done her research. The era comes alive to the point that when Bea got so excited about her suitor Henry coming she accomplished her toilette in record time. Which is a nice way of saying it; you get the point.
Bea and Henry’s romance has many hurdles to traverse: her mother’s objections, of course, and another suitor of dubious background with an important family backer, who wants to conquer the world. These interludes are well written and plausible given the historical events of the time.
You’ll have to read this enjoyable novel to see how this love affair comes to literally a cliff ending event that kept the interest of a non-Victorian like me.
Written by Mary Hart Perry
Reviewed by R. Murry
Being the Baby, the youngest in the family of many, has its advantages and disadvantages. Since I have never been in that position, I have no real understanding of how one copes being the youngest of seven. Ms. Perry’s character Baby explains, in well-constructed prose, how one felt from a Victorian prospective. It was heart breaking being the youngest daughter of Queen Victoria.
Beatrice, Bea or Baby for short, finds herself in a deserving position that she never thought would happen to her even though she is at the ripe old age of twenty seven. She has a male suitor. Most women of that era by eighteen knew about the birds and bees. You know what I mean. Bea was oblivious of the differences.
Here is where the fun in this romantic thriller begins – the seduction game a la Victorian Era. You must follow royal protocol or the Queen will chop off your head literally and or fugitively if you screw with her needs. The queen is in control of her realm and her family.
Mary Hart Perry has done her research. The era comes alive to the point that when Bea got so excited about her suitor Henry coming she accomplished her toilette in record time. Which is a nice way of saying it; you get the point.
Bea and Henry’s romance has many hurdles to traverse: her mother’s objections, of course, and another suitor of dubious background with an important family backer, who wants to conquer the world. These interludes are well written and plausible given the historical events of the time.
You’ll have to read this enjoyable novel to see how this love affair comes to literally a cliff ending event that kept the interest of a non-Victorian like me.
April 6, 2013
I have been a HUGE fan of Kathryn Johnson, aka Mary Hart Perry since I reviewed The Wild Princess last June, so I started this book with high expectations. Seducing the Princess definitely did not disappoint. Johnson again expertly weaves historical fact with her own romantic imagination to tell the story of Princess Beatrice and her search for love.
The sexual tension in this story will bring you to your knees and the ups and downs, political intrigue and high intensity dramatic action will have you staying up too late to read it all the way to the end.
Princess Beatrice is such a sweet, shy, caring character you can't help but fall in love with her. If you have read The Wild Princess, don't worry, there are appearances by Princess Louise and her "friend" Stephen Byrne. In addition, you will fall in love with Prince Henry and learn to loath young Prince Wilhelm (later to become Kaiser Wilhelm II) and his sleazy friend Gregory.
The sexual tension in this story will bring you to your knees and the ups and downs, political intrigue and high intensity dramatic action will have you staying up too late to read it all the way to the end.
Princess Beatrice is such a sweet, shy, caring character you can't help but fall in love with her. If you have read The Wild Princess, don't worry, there are appearances by Princess Louise and her "friend" Stephen Byrne. In addition, you will fall in love with Prince Henry and learn to loath young Prince Wilhelm (later to become Kaiser Wilhelm II) and his sleazy friend Gregory.
June 10, 2013
The author has a way of writing a romance story intertwined with history. After reading The Wild Princess, I was excited to read another book by Mary Hart Perry. This love story is about Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter, Beatrice. Beatrice has fought off age and found herself with a line of men vying for her hand. Not sure if she wants to be in the mystery herself, she has no choice.
I enjoy how the author is able to weave such mystery and deceit among a society we feel is void of all these types of things. Making “princesses” real people to the reader and cheering for their happiness. I find myself getting wrapped up in the story and really visualizing all that she is describing.
I recommend this book, and her prior book Wild Princess, to all romance readers, especially Historical Romance. And if you are a reader who enjoys historical stories, this has just enough mystery and adventure to connect you with the romance.
I enjoy how the author is able to weave such mystery and deceit among a society we feel is void of all these types of things. Making “princesses” real people to the reader and cheering for their happiness. I find myself getting wrapped up in the story and really visualizing all that she is describing.
I recommend this book, and her prior book Wild Princess, to all romance readers, especially Historical Romance. And if you are a reader who enjoys historical stories, this has just enough mystery and adventure to connect you with the romance.
July 21, 2014
While I liked this book just fine, I didn't like it nearly as much as I liked Hart's other book, The Wild Princess: A Novel of Queen Victoria's Defiant Daughter. Beatrice ("Baby") is not as strong of a character as Louise is. Also, despite it being entirely fiction versus merely fictionalized, Louise's love story felt much stronger to me than the "all-consuming" love of Henry of Battenburg, which did not feel realistic to a prince of the time.
Also, whoever is editing this book needs to check their historical accuracy. Every time I hit a historical error in this book (and there were a surprising amount), I cringed. Admittedly, most of them were small ones only I would notice, but they still mattered.
Overal: 3.25/5. Would recommend The Wild Princess over this book.
Also, whoever is editing this book needs to check their historical accuracy. Every time I hit a historical error in this book (and there were a surprising amount), I cringed. Admittedly, most of them were small ones only I would notice, but they still mattered.
Overal: 3.25/5. Would recommend The Wild Princess over this book.
March 12, 2013
A charming, fun, adventurous story.
Beatrice is totally at her best when she is standing up for herself. I loved that about her. Even though she has such a torn down self-respect, with a few loving words from Henry she is on the ball.
Henry is a interesting character , so determined and strong of heart.
Wilhelm is a major *BLEEP*. I swear I wanted to kill the man! Then he add to Gregory to his EVIL plans...urgh!
It was a toss up some pages on who I want to smack first.....Him or the Queen.
The Queen was down right wrong on a ton of things, thank heaven I'm not her child!!!
This proved to be a wonderful written historical and I found myself immersed into the story, the plot laid out perfectly that by the end I was WOWED!
Beatrice is totally at her best when she is standing up for herself. I loved that about her. Even though she has such a torn down self-respect, with a few loving words from Henry she is on the ball.
Henry is a interesting character , so determined and strong of heart.
Wilhelm is a major *BLEEP*. I swear I wanted to kill the man! Then he add to Gregory to his EVIL plans...urgh!
It was a toss up some pages on who I want to smack first.....Him or the Queen.
The Queen was down right wrong on a ton of things, thank heaven I'm not her child!!!
This proved to be a wonderful written historical and I found myself immersed into the story, the plot laid out perfectly that by the end I was WOWED!
April 29, 2013
Mary Hart Perry’s book Seducing the Princess isn’t another purely fiction love story. It’s real history mixed with fiction. The Princess in this story is Queen Victoria’s younger daughter princess Beatrice and her prince is prince Henry of Pattenberg.
It was really sweet story and all the time I had to hold myself back as to not look up the real story from Wikipedia.
The big difference between the usual romance novels heroines and princess in this story is this, that she is intelligent young woman, who has functional head on her shoulders and it is very refreshing after reading about the usual romance novels heroines who are usually the damsels in distress and run always in the direction they should not.
It was a really wonderful story based on a real life.
It was really sweet story and all the time I had to hold myself back as to not look up the real story from Wikipedia.
The big difference between the usual romance novels heroines and princess in this story is this, that she is intelligent young woman, who has functional head on her shoulders and it is very refreshing after reading about the usual romance novels heroines who are usually the damsels in distress and run always in the direction they should not.
It was a really wonderful story based on a real life.
June 3, 2025
** Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a review**
Although the writing was good, I could never really connect to the characters. I did dislike the character of Queen Victoria, but while this seemed to be a historical romance, there was a lot of behaviour from the Queen that seemed to be the villain of the story. I understand that, in perspective, Queen Victoria’s current behavior toward some things might be considered unacceptable, but I felt most characters were distant.
The writing was really good, and the pacing was decent, but most characters just lacked emotion other than me finding Queen Victoria mostly a drama queen.
I would consider "Seducing the Princess" more of an alternative history type of novel and I think I would have more fun with it that way.
Although the writing was good, I could never really connect to the characters. I did dislike the character of Queen Victoria, but while this seemed to be a historical romance, there was a lot of behaviour from the Queen that seemed to be the villain of the story. I understand that, in perspective, Queen Victoria’s current behavior toward some things might be considered unacceptable, but I felt most characters were distant.
The writing was really good, and the pacing was decent, but most characters just lacked emotion other than me finding Queen Victoria mostly a drama queen.
I would consider "Seducing the Princess" more of an alternative history type of novel and I think I would have more fun with it that way.
March 13, 2013
It was....okay. 3 and a half stars seems fair. I may bump it up to four because I always feel differently after I've written a full review.
Quickie pros: Reading about Queen Victoria's children; historical accuracy; good idea in general; villain, though cookie cutter evil, was still hateable and I love to loathe an antagonist.
Quickie cons: Not a good love story; dissatisfying ending (after alllll that...that's it?!?!); not enough going on in the plot.
Full review to come when I'm not awake at an ungodly hour.
Quickie pros: Reading about Queen Victoria's children; historical accuracy; good idea in general; villain, though cookie cutter evil, was still hateable and I love to loathe an antagonist.
Quickie cons: Not a good love story; dissatisfying ending (after alllll that...that's it?!?!); not enough going on in the plot.
Full review to come when I'm not awake at an ungodly hour.
April 1, 2014
Highly recommended if you're a fan of historical romance, with a good dash of suspense. Well thought out plot with twists that were sometimes obvious, but still thoroughly enjoyable and engaging. The characters were a treat, all executed brilliantly with their individual plot lines. Bea was a delight as a main character, anxious, trapped and controlled, with the underlying heroine bursting through at times. Very enjoyable with an amazing amount of readers emotional connections, my heart was all a fluster for most of it. Loved it
April 10, 2013
If I thought "The Wild Princess" was good, I have to admit "Seducing the Princess" is even better! Mary does it again with her wonderful writing that just captured the life into her well developed, believable characters and beautifully descriptive scenes. A total must read and highly recommended for all romance lovers.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
March 16, 2014
Not your typical princess story
Not your typical princess story
You'll find yourself emphasizing with the princess, bonding with the lady in waiting, and find yourself trying to understand a queen who can't get out of her own miserable way. I found myself gripped to the book, reading it in two days. The author has an amazing way of twisting the story just enough so you'll get a good surprise ending!
Not your typical princess story
You'll find yourself emphasizing with the princess, bonding with the lady in waiting, and find yourself trying to understand a queen who can't get out of her own miserable way. I found myself gripped to the book, reading it in two days. The author has an amazing way of twisting the story just enough so you'll get a good surprise ending!
April 1, 2013
Mary Hart Perry does it again with Seducing the Princess. She captures the reader with beautifully drawn images of Victorian England. Her characters are believable and sympathetic, whether real or imagined. Action and adventure combined with lush historical detail put her books into the Must Read category. I hope the next book is available soon!
March 12, 2013
I love history and historical fiction, but it was the romance that pulled me through this book, much to my own surprise. It's as if Princess Beatrice was waiting in my Kindle--tapping her foot and checking her watch--until I came back so she could get on with her life. I wasn't entirely sure Beatrice would ever find love, and I thought the ending provided a satisfying twist.
April 10, 2013
I love this author! These books are romantic, with just the right amount of suspense, and without the bodice-ripping graphic stuff that a lot of historical romances seem to have. Here is my review:
http://librarycrystal.wordpress.com/2...
http://librarycrystal.wordpress.com/2...
April 6, 2014
I do not ususally read books set in the Victorian era but this was a quick look into the royal court later in Victoria's life. A work of fiction, it does give an unusual look into the youngest daughter Beatrice and her desire to be wed.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 42 reviews