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The Kingdom Chronicles #4
Reflection
Princess Rheanna’s self-esteem shattered when her former fiancé unexpectedly ended their betrothal. Years later, the rejection continues to haunt her, and now that she’s faced with yet another unwanted political engagement, Rhea will do anything to avoid another heartache.
When a mysterious lure draws Rhea to an abandoned turret of the palace, she discovers a magic mirror and is shocked to find a snarky man trapped inside. Although she agrees to help break Drake's curse, things quickly grow complicated, for not only does she begin to fall in love with him, but breaking a curse proves quite difficult when she herself feels trapped—by her own self-doubts.
Rhea and Drake’s relationship sets in motion a series of events that threaten both herself and her kingdom. As she seeks to unmask the evil within the palace and overcome the poisonous doubts consuming her mind, Rhea must make a difficult choice between the path she's expected to walk and the man she’s forbidden to love. But the more time she spends with Drake, the less convinced she becomes that doing her duty will be worth the sacrifice it will cost her heart.
Inspired by Snow White
When a mysterious lure draws Rhea to an abandoned turret of the palace, she discovers a magic mirror and is shocked to find a snarky man trapped inside. Although she agrees to help break Drake's curse, things quickly grow complicated, for not only does she begin to fall in love with him, but breaking a curse proves quite difficult when she herself feels trapped—by her own self-doubts.
Rhea and Drake’s relationship sets in motion a series of events that threaten both herself and her kingdom. As she seeks to unmask the evil within the palace and overcome the poisonous doubts consuming her mind, Rhea must make a difficult choice between the path she's expected to walk and the man she’s forbidden to love. But the more time she spends with Drake, the less convinced she becomes that doing her duty will be worth the sacrifice it will cost her heart.
Inspired by Snow White
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 11, 2019
About the author
Camille Peters
19 books416 followersCamille Peters was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah where she grew up surrounded by books. As a child, she spent every spare moment reading and writing her own stories on every scrap of paper she could find. Becoming an author was always more than a childhood dream; it was a certainty.
Her love of writing grew alongside her as she took local writing classes in her teens, spent a year studying Creative Writing at the English University of Northampton, and graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in English and History. She’s now blessed to be a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s thinking about writing, and when’s she’s not thinking about writing she’s…alright, she’s always thinking about writing, but she can also be found reading, at the piano, playing board games with her family and friends, or taking long, bare-foot walks as she lives inside her imagination and brainstorms more tales.
Her love of writing grew alongside her as she took local writing classes in her teens, spent a year studying Creative Writing at the English University of Northampton, and graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in English and History. She’s now blessed to be a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s thinking about writing, and when’s she’s not thinking about writing she’s…alright, she’s always thinking about writing, but she can also be found reading, at the piano, playing board games with her family and friends, or taking long, bare-foot walks as she lives inside her imagination and brainstorms more tales.
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January 22, 2023Over ten years ago I got the idea for writing a romance where the love interest is trapped in a mirror. I found the concept thoroughly intriguing, but after several attempts to come up with a plot, I realized it wasn’t time to tell that story. I’m so thrilled that, many years later, I’ve finally found the perfect way to share my initial idea—as a retelling of Snow White. This book was both extremely fun to write as I explored how a romance between a magic mirror would play out, while also being quite a challenge as I’ve never attempted a plot like this before. I’m so thrilled with how it turned out. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I do!
November 21, 2019
Reflection...what a great title for this Snow White retelling. I loved how the author captured that title so perfectly throughout the whole book. I was scanning through my highlights and came across a quote that I loved and thought would show you all a little glimpse of this gem of a novel.
~That was when seeing my reflection had become almost painful. A room like this with hundreds of mirrors represented hundreds of reminders that I didn't measure up. I half expected Drake to laugh. But he didn't; by the look in his eyes, he seemed to sense the words I hadn't said.
"I can understand that," he said. "When I first became trapped, I felt all I could see was my own reflection, revealing all my shortcomings, which made me believe I deserved my fate. There's nothing scarier than seeing exactly who you are. But I've come to discover that mirrors aren't completely accurate; they only show what one can see on the outside, not one's true worth hidden within each of us. Your best traits can't show up in a mirror." His gaze intensified. "You're a lovely person, Rhea. You're compassionate, intelligent, a good listener, and you go out of your way to do thoughtful gestures for cursed men trapped inside mirrors."
My heart warmed at his kind and surprisingly perceptive words. I stared at him, almost as if seeing him for the first time myself. On the outside he was snarky and often grumpy, but there was more to him than what I could see within the glass. Did that mean his words were true, that there was also more to me?~
Do I have you intrigued? I hope so. I love that scene. Princess Rhea is aching and unsure of so many things about herself. She's trying to heal and hides her pain from everyone. Trying to be a perfect princess and to serve her family and kingdom selflessly. But unfortunately she's been hurt and hasn't found healing yet. On the cusp on becoming engaged to the Crown Prince Briar, she finds a mirror with a cursed man inside. Drake and Rhea become an unlikely pair of friends trying to navigate all the ups and downs of courtship that Rhea is experiencing with Prince Briar as well as many other issues that keep arising within her family and kingdom.
Will Princess Rhea find her healing? Or will she keep hiding her pain away trying to help everyone else and sacrificing herself for them?
There were so many great scenes in this book. Many ups and downs. Moments of humor. Plenty of moments of sorrow and a few moments of seeing previous characters that I love from the other books in this series. And, yes, moments of healing (not always in the way that you might think).
I found myself watching Princess Rhea's story and her quiet introspection then turning and doing my own introspection. This author did a great job of writing this story that pulled me in and had me connecting with these characters whose own reflection and healing was so real, I couldn't help but be drawn into their stories.
I loved it! I laughed a lot. I ached a lot. I may have cried a little bit. But I most definitely had many moments of swooning and sighing for this sweet couple overcoming the odds. There were several moments when I thought all was lost, or that I was caught off guard not seeing what was coming because I was focused on something else in the story.
Come fall in love with Princess Rheanna and her family. You can cheer for true love while you read it! And if you haven't read the previous books, no worries, you'll still enjoy this one a lot. But you should definitely go read Prince Liam's story (he's Rheanna's brother and has many moments in this book). I loved his story, Identity, so that's why I'm recommending reading it!
Content: Clean. Elements of magic and curses.
I received a copy from the author all thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
~That was when seeing my reflection had become almost painful. A room like this with hundreds of mirrors represented hundreds of reminders that I didn't measure up. I half expected Drake to laugh. But he didn't; by the look in his eyes, he seemed to sense the words I hadn't said.
"I can understand that," he said. "When I first became trapped, I felt all I could see was my own reflection, revealing all my shortcomings, which made me believe I deserved my fate. There's nothing scarier than seeing exactly who you are. But I've come to discover that mirrors aren't completely accurate; they only show what one can see on the outside, not one's true worth hidden within each of us. Your best traits can't show up in a mirror." His gaze intensified. "You're a lovely person, Rhea. You're compassionate, intelligent, a good listener, and you go out of your way to do thoughtful gestures for cursed men trapped inside mirrors."
My heart warmed at his kind and surprisingly perceptive words. I stared at him, almost as if seeing him for the first time myself. On the outside he was snarky and often grumpy, but there was more to him than what I could see within the glass. Did that mean his words were true, that there was also more to me?~
Do I have you intrigued? I hope so. I love that scene. Princess Rhea is aching and unsure of so many things about herself. She's trying to heal and hides her pain from everyone. Trying to be a perfect princess and to serve her family and kingdom selflessly. But unfortunately she's been hurt and hasn't found healing yet. On the cusp on becoming engaged to the Crown Prince Briar, she finds a mirror with a cursed man inside. Drake and Rhea become an unlikely pair of friends trying to navigate all the ups and downs of courtship that Rhea is experiencing with Prince Briar as well as many other issues that keep arising within her family and kingdom.
Will Princess Rhea find her healing? Or will she keep hiding her pain away trying to help everyone else and sacrificing herself for them?
There were so many great scenes in this book. Many ups and downs. Moments of humor. Plenty of moments of sorrow and a few moments of seeing previous characters that I love from the other books in this series. And, yes, moments of healing (not always in the way that you might think).
I found myself watching Princess Rhea's story and her quiet introspection then turning and doing my own introspection. This author did a great job of writing this story that pulled me in and had me connecting with these characters whose own reflection and healing was so real, I couldn't help but be drawn into their stories.
I loved it! I laughed a lot. I ached a lot. I may have cried a little bit. But I most definitely had many moments of swooning and sighing for this sweet couple overcoming the odds. There were several moments when I thought all was lost, or that I was caught off guard not seeing what was coming because I was focused on something else in the story.
Come fall in love with Princess Rheanna and her family. You can cheer for true love while you read it! And if you haven't read the previous books, no worries, you'll still enjoy this one a lot. But you should definitely go read Prince Liam's story (he's Rheanna's brother and has many moments in this book). I loved his story, Identity, so that's why I'm recommending reading it!
Content: Clean. Elements of magic and curses.
I received a copy from the author all thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 12, 2019
This book started out a bit rocky for me but I was so intrigued by the man in the mirror and the developing relationship there that I kept reading. I think the beginning felt like it was spinning in one place too long. The same sentiments and situations were reiterated over and over. Rhea and Drake literally had the same conversations. I was getting frustrated with Rhea. But then it started moving. Thank goodness. The plot began to build more and more and I could feel the intensity ramping up for a grand conclusion. I loved how the people and ideas came together. Evil felt evil, good felt good. There was romance and friendship and love. The second half of the book was so fun. I really enjoyed it. Now I am ever so interested in Briar and his curse. Actually, all his siblings are cursed! Doesn't that sound intriguing?!
This book is part of a series but I think it can stand alone. You might be happier if you read them in order because you will have a greater connection to the secondary characters.
Content: kissing, mild peril
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book is part of a series but I think it can stand alone. You might be happier if you read them in order because you will have a greater connection to the secondary characters.
Content: kissing, mild peril
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 12, 2021
I've read this installment in the Kingdom Chronicles out of order, having first read the Beauty & Beast retelling, the latest in the series, so my perceptions are probably different to what they'd have been if I didn't know the big surprise or been spoilt about some plot details. A bit of advice to other readers: whilst this and other books in the series can be read as standalones, it's best that you read them in order. The books are intertwined through plot details and characters, so you'll unavoidably spoil something for yourself one way or another.
I still enjoyed this Snow White retelling. Not as much for the story as for some of the characters that I'd already known from a previous story, specifically Briar. He is rather dull and has an opaque personality here, but gradually you start to see the character from his own book that was so likable to me. On the other hand, the protagonists, Rheanna and Drake, didn't make all that much of an impression on me. I had found Drake abrasive and a bit of a jerk in the previous book, and he barely improved by learning about his experience and seeing his softer side, so you could say there was a shift in perception. Princess Rheanna didn't improve for me, though, but got worse. I struggled to see a valid reason for her woe-is-me attitude and her self-pity, because she has loving parents who adore her, siblings who love and indulge her, she's not really ugly nor has serious problems of any kind, and she's only experienced broken arranged engagements to men she admits she didn't love. So what's her problem? Her issue is imaginary, all in her head, from what I could see from the text, and that's not a characterisation I'm appreciative of. I would've liked to see a solid, genuine problem that was at the root of her self-image issues that didn't come across as navel-gazing.
Liam, her brother, is by far the most engaging and catchy character in Reflection, the fun party fellow, the adventurer, with an infectious gaiety and a sweet love he's not ashamed of showing off to all and sundry. So different to Rhea, which also underscores how unconvincing her "problems" are. He was tied for my favourite in this story, and I'm sure the book with his own story is one to devour and an absolute delight.
On the whole, I've noticed that Royalty in this world feel like upper-class commoners for the most part, as there's little of the pageantry and ceremony typical for such high-ranked personages. The princesses and queens roam about without their posse of ladies, for example, and the princes aren't followed around by their retinue of guards and hangers-on either. The attitude towards arranged marriages vs love matches, the duties of government and responsibility of role, the ideas of rank and class, and so on, make this world read more like that of a Regency novel, which is probably intentional. I have no objection to that per se, though I'd definitely appreciate if the royals had a more rank-appropriate mentality and behaviour.
Many thanks to the author for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I still enjoyed this Snow White retelling. Not as much for the story as for some of the characters that I'd already known from a previous story, specifically Briar. He is rather dull and has an opaque personality here, but gradually you start to see the character from his own book that was so likable to me. On the other hand, the protagonists, Rheanna and Drake, didn't make all that much of an impression on me. I had found Drake abrasive and a bit of a jerk in the previous book, and he barely improved by learning about his experience and seeing his softer side, so you could say there was a shift in perception. Princess Rheanna didn't improve for me, though, but got worse. I struggled to see a valid reason for her woe-is-me attitude and her self-pity, because she has loving parents who adore her, siblings who love and indulge her, she's not really ugly nor has serious problems of any kind, and she's only experienced broken arranged engagements to men she admits she didn't love. So what's her problem? Her issue is imaginary, all in her head, from what I could see from the text, and that's not a characterisation I'm appreciative of. I would've liked to see a solid, genuine problem that was at the root of her self-image issues that didn't come across as navel-gazing.
Liam, her brother, is by far the most engaging and catchy character in Reflection, the fun party fellow, the adventurer, with an infectious gaiety and a sweet love he's not ashamed of showing off to all and sundry. So different to Rhea, which also underscores how unconvincing her "problems" are. He was tied for my favourite in this story, and I'm sure the book with his own story is one to devour and an absolute delight.
On the whole, I've noticed that Royalty in this world feel like upper-class commoners for the most part, as there's little of the pageantry and ceremony typical for such high-ranked personages. The princesses and queens roam about without their posse of ladies, for example, and the princes aren't followed around by their retinue of guards and hangers-on either. The attitude towards arranged marriages vs love matches, the duties of government and responsibility of role, the ideas of rank and class, and so on, make this world read more like that of a Regency novel, which is probably intentional. I have no objection to that per se, though I'd definitely appreciate if the royals had a more rank-appropriate mentality and behaviour.
Many thanks to the author for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2020
This book is a really loose retelling of Snow White. It was such a loose retelling that it took me a while to even figure out what fairy tale inspired the story in this book (the story was also giving me a lot of Frog Prince vibes as well). The looseness of the retelling didn't bother me since this author's whole series has been really loose fairy tale retellings, so that is to be expected.
Because the retelling was so loose, it was able to take the story in some really interesting directions and add some really cool twists that books that stick closer to the fairy tale aren't able to do. I thought that part of the book was really well done, and the author pulled off a romance that was a very difficult one to make sound genuine, given the circumstances that one of the main characters was in.
Rhea did drive me nuts for a lot of the book. Her personal struggles are not something I connect with as easily, but I could see where others would find her struggle with self-worth really inspiring and something they could connect with.
Once again, the narrator does an amazing job with the audiobook. I'm so glad this series has been releasing on audiobook, and if you don't have a lot of time to sit down and read, these audiobooks are definitely worth picking up!
Because the retelling was so loose, it was able to take the story in some really interesting directions and add some really cool twists that books that stick closer to the fairy tale aren't able to do. I thought that part of the book was really well done, and the author pulled off a romance that was a very difficult one to make sound genuine, given the circumstances that one of the main characters was in.
Rhea did drive me nuts for a lot of the book. Her personal struggles are not something I connect with as easily, but I could see where others would find her struggle with self-worth really inspiring and something they could connect with.
Once again, the narrator does an amazing job with the audiobook. I'm so glad this series has been releasing on audiobook, and if you don't have a lot of time to sit down and read, these audiobooks are definitely worth picking up!
April 17, 2022
As of today, 12/25/19, I haven't finished this book. Not because it's not interesting, but because I am incredibly frustrated with the book. ***Possible spoilers in this review***
I have liked it a little better than the previous book in the series, because the plot is more than the characters having sweet romantic moments for the entire book. However, Reflection is way too long and slow. If there were more exciting things happening at the beginning, the length wouldn't bother me, but I found myself looking at the percentage of the book that I had read, and my guess was never even close to where I actually was. This book definitely could have been 100 pages shorter, and it would still be good.
The plot was really interesting with the man stuck in the mirror, but the characters are almost too frustrating to enjoy the plot. Rhea was so insecure, and even after everyone had reassured her of her strengths multiple times, she didn't really ever become more sure of herself. And it seemed like she and Drake continued to have the same conversations.
I want to finish the book so I know how it all ends up (aside from the obvious HEA), but I can't until I get over my frustrations.
I have liked it a little better than the previous book in the series, because the plot is more than the characters having sweet romantic moments for the entire book. However, Reflection is way too long and slow. If there were more exciting things happening at the beginning, the length wouldn't bother me, but I found myself looking at the percentage of the book that I had read, and my guess was never even close to where I actually was. This book definitely could have been 100 pages shorter, and it would still be good.
The plot was really interesting with the man stuck in the mirror, but the characters are almost too frustrating to enjoy the plot. Rhea was so insecure, and even after everyone had reassured her of her strengths multiple times, she didn't really ever become more sure of herself. And it seemed like she and Drake continued to have the same conversations.
I want to finish the book so I know how it all ends up (aside from the obvious HEA), but I can't until I get over my frustrations.
December 13, 2022
I really enjoyed this story! I was immediately intrigued by the plot and I have to say, it was really neat. There was an aspect of mystery in the story that I loved! I was constantly trying to figure out what was going on and what was going to happen next. There were plenty of plot twists and suspense that kept me invested.
I also quickly grew to care about the characters. Of course I was intrigued by the man in the mirror— Drake. I liked him even in the beginning when he was sarcastic and grumpy. He was the opposite of Rhea’s gentle, sweet personality so I loved watching their friendship grow into eventually more. Their banter back and forth was so much fun!
Speaking of Rhea, I loved her character! I really enjoyed watching her character development. I was rooting for her the whole time. She was really relatable. She struggles to see her worth and fails to see what a wonderful person she is. I loved watching her journey!
I loved Briar so much! He was wonderful! He became one of my favorite characters from this book so I am SO excited to read his story in the next book!
I really liked this quote from a conversation between Drake and Rhea in the book: “‘But I've come to discover that mirrors aren't completely accurate; they only show what one can see on the outside, not one's true worth hidden within each of us. Your best traits can't show up in a mirror.'”— Drake
That just really stuck out to me and I think it’s so true. I loved that this book had depth to it as well as a fun fairytale/fantasy plot.
In conclusion, I loved this book! I listened to it on audiobook and thought the narrator did a fantastic job. I can’t wait to read more of Camille Peter’s books!
I also quickly grew to care about the characters. Of course I was intrigued by the man in the mirror— Drake. I liked him even in the beginning when he was sarcastic and grumpy. He was the opposite of Rhea’s gentle, sweet personality so I loved watching their friendship grow into eventually more. Their banter back and forth was so much fun!
Speaking of Rhea, I loved her character! I really enjoyed watching her character development. I was rooting for her the whole time. She was really relatable. She struggles to see her worth and fails to see what a wonderful person she is. I loved watching her journey!
I loved Briar so much! He was wonderful! He became one of my favorite characters from this book so I am SO excited to read his story in the next book!
I really liked this quote from a conversation between Drake and Rhea in the book: “‘But I've come to discover that mirrors aren't completely accurate; they only show what one can see on the outside, not one's true worth hidden within each of us. Your best traits can't show up in a mirror.'”— Drake
That just really stuck out to me and I think it’s so true. I loved that this book had depth to it as well as a fun fairytale/fantasy plot.
In conclusion, I loved this book! I listened to it on audiobook and thought the narrator did a fantastic job. I can’t wait to read more of Camille Peter’s books!
July 29, 2020
3.5
Rhea & Drake's story.
This one was a bit long winded in my opinion. While I enjoyed the riveting adventure, I feel the conclusion could have come much quicker.
I guess almost immediately the relationship between Drake & Briar. While we see Drake's curse, being trapped in a mirror, we never learn of Briar's curse. Which I found odd.
Rhea was spurned by Aiden in book 1. However, this is her story. She finally learned to let the past go and embrace the strong woman she was!
Fraught with intrigue, murder plots, cursed royals, conniving queens, meddling siblings, and so much more. This one did keep me on the edge of my seat until I was screaming, "Just get to it already." It was fun! I'll continue the series!! I wish we could see more of Rosie. But alas, she has already had her story. We did see Eillen & Aiden in this one. That was great!!
Rhea & Drake's story.
This one was a bit long winded in my opinion. While I enjoyed the riveting adventure, I feel the conclusion could have come much quicker.
I guess almost immediately the relationship between Drake & Briar. While we see Drake's curse, being trapped in a mirror, we never learn of Briar's curse. Which I found odd.
Rhea was spurned by Aiden in book 1. However, this is her story. She finally learned to let the past go and embrace the strong woman she was!
Fraught with intrigue, murder plots, cursed royals, conniving queens, meddling siblings, and so much more. This one did keep me on the edge of my seat until I was screaming, "Just get to it already." It was fun! I'll continue the series!! I wish we could see more of Rosie. But alas, she has already had her story. We did see Eillen & Aiden in this one. That was great!!
November 7, 2019
She's done it again! I couldn't put it down. The whole Kingdom Chronicles series has been amazing but I think this one was my favorite so far. Camille Peters books hook you from chapter 1, you feel as if you're part of that world. You laugh, you cry, you get emotionally attached to these characters. I love how I get to reconnect with characters from the previous books and see how their stories are unfolding. The books in this series always leave me feeling content with a happy ending but with lingering questions in my mind, making me eager for the next one.
Reflection was perfect; a sweet princess, an evil queen, a mysterious man in a mirror, an indifferent Prince, a sinister plot and a love triangle. This book does not disappoint!
Reflection was perfect; a sweet princess, an evil queen, a mysterious man in a mirror, an indifferent Prince, a sinister plot and a love triangle. This book does not disappoint!
November 12, 2019
I was so excited for this book!! It was nothing like I expected, but I loved every minute of it. It was so fun and captivating of a story line, I saw bits and pieces of lots of story books intricately woven into something different, something unique. I really couldn't guess the ending, it really could have turned out multiple ways, but I did have hope...
Spectacular book! One of my favorites for this year!
Thank you to Ms. Peters for the ARC in exchange for a fair review. The thoughts and ideas are my own.
Spectacular book! One of my favorites for this year!
Thank you to Ms. Peters for the ARC in exchange for a fair review. The thoughts and ideas are my own.
November 7, 2019
Another great read from this series! The characters we love are back and better than ever! So far my favorite in this series! It’s time for Princess Rhea to tell her tale and what a powerful one it was! Just finished it and already anxious for the next story!!
March 24, 2023
4.4 stars. I loved the Snow White aspects of this book! This was very good!
May 27, 2020
Wow, I was not expecting to enjoy this so much! I'll admit it took a shamefully long time for me to read this-- I read it when it first came out but never finished it. Anyway, this time around I was able to be fully invested in the story, and now I am on pins and needles waiting for book five to come out!
Princess Rhea was a sweet character from the first book, but we can really appreciate her personality here! I loved that her arc has a theme of self-worth in the "not measuring up" vein. She was also a great main character in general-- I liked her POV very much. She and Drake had hilarious moments of banter and pretty great chemistry, and I'm especially fond of her friendships with the three different princes that show up in the story (all quite important characters, all platonic relationships). Drake ws good fun too, the prrfect match for Rhea!
The plot really took me by surprise-- in the best way, of course. I love a good mystery subplot, and it's always better in fairytale retellings because this genre has that apparent obstacle of being predictable in its story beats. While these books aren't necessarily retellings, I'm still glad that the plots all allude to fairytales anyway. Furthermore, I'm always up for some nail-biting tension ("nail-biting" being used as a mere modifier here, just gotta clarify) and it was IN Reflection. Yay!
Some dislikes: I feel like the characters seem to lose personality in their most romantic scenes/post-happily-ever-after? I noticed this in Pathways and Identity and especially here in Reflection, how married princesses seem to be so sweet and kind and all too similar? Also Drake seemed to become less snarky/blunt/hilarious in the last fourth of the story. And it's probably just me, but I thought words like "sweet" and "snarky" were used way too often. (Minor pet peeve of mine, haha)
To end this review on a positive note... I love these characters (Liam was awesome as always) and the banter (laughed out load more than once-- humor is a big selling point for me!) and Prince Briar (I seem to find a new favorite character every time I read one of these books; is this normal?). This series keeps getting better and better.
Always be a happy camper! ;)
Princess Rhea was a sweet character from the first book, but we can really appreciate her personality here! I loved that her arc has a theme of self-worth in the "not measuring up" vein. She was also a great main character in general-- I liked her POV very much. She and Drake had hilarious moments of banter and pretty great chemistry, and I'm especially fond of her friendships with the three different princes that show up in the story (all quite important characters, all platonic relationships). Drake ws good fun too, the prrfect match for Rhea!
The plot really took me by surprise-- in the best way, of course. I love a good mystery subplot, and it's always better in fairytale retellings because this genre has that apparent obstacle of being predictable in its story beats. While these books aren't necessarily retellings, I'm still glad that the plots all allude to fairytales anyway. Furthermore, I'm always up for some nail-biting tension ("nail-biting" being used as a mere modifier here, just gotta clarify) and it was IN Reflection. Yay!
Some dislikes: I feel like the characters seem to lose personality in their most romantic scenes/post-happily-ever-after? I noticed this in Pathways and Identity and especially here in Reflection, how married princesses seem to be so sweet and kind and all too similar? Also Drake seemed to become less snarky/blunt/hilarious in the last fourth of the story. And it's probably just me, but I thought words like "sweet" and "snarky" were used way too often. (Minor pet peeve of mine, haha)
To end this review on a positive note... I love these characters (Liam was awesome as always) and the banter (laughed out load more than once-- humor is a big selling point for me!) and Prince Briar (I seem to find a new favorite character every time I read one of these books; is this normal?). This series keeps getting better and better.
Always be a happy camper! ;)
November 16, 2021
I haven’t read anything in over a year and yet, Camille Peters has done what no other authors could do; got me back into reading. Reflected is the first book in this series that I read, and even though I’m coming in to book four, I was immediately drawn into the story. I love Rhea’s character. The way Camille wrote insecurity made me sympathize with Rhea and relate to her so much. I absolutely love Drake and I ship him and Rhea SO MUCH! This was such a beautiful love story full of twists and turns that I can’t and won’t spoil. I did see most of them coming but it was an entertaining love adventure nonetheless. What a flawlessly written book—so enjoyable for me to delve into and I literally can’t wait to continue binging the series. I also love that she gives hints to future characters, like Briar, as well as past ones, like Liam, so I can’t wait to go back and read his story with Anwen as well as I look forward to reading Briar’s as well. It did have a few grammar mistakes, but all books do and it didn’t take away from the story at all. I was fully immersed and in love and can’t wait to read more. Camille is a sweet, fantastic author who writes the most intense, sweet, cleanest romances that I absolutely adore. And I’m excited to say that this is my first book review all year long!
April 28, 2021
Good: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Clean: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Fun: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh. My. Goodness. Y’all, Camille’s books keep getting better and better!
This one was so close to driving me crazy! In a good way. The HATMOV scene left a bit to be desired, but, by that point, I just wanted answers so bad, I didn’t really care.
All these books are so clean, except some kissing and touching before marriage.
This book was so fun and scary, it was a roller coaster ride, and I loved it so much!
Whole heartedly recommend!!!
Clean: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Fun: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh. My. Goodness. Y’all, Camille’s books keep getting better and better!
This one was so close to driving me crazy! In a good way. The HATMOV scene left a bit to be desired, but, by that point, I just wanted answers so bad, I didn’t really care.
All these books are so clean, except some kissing and touching before marriage.
This book was so fun and scary, it was a roller coaster ride, and I loved it so much!
Whole heartedly recommend!!!
July 18, 2022
I really like Rhea and I liked that I started to understand why she acted the way she did in Identity.
I didn't like Drake. He was manipulative. And I just couldn't imagine them being together while he was just horrible. I just didn't like that he used her.
But it was a great book so even though I didn't like Drake (which took away one star) I did like the book so four stars.
It seemed more like a Beauty and the Beast tale with hints of Snow White. It was a refreshing retelling since it wasn't completely based off of one story.
I also LOVED Enchanted but I didn't love Briar in this book. Which is sad since I did like his character in Enchanted.
This review is my honest opinion. I did NOT receive a complimentary copy. I bought this/ read it on KU.
I didn't like Drake. He was manipulative. And I just couldn't imagine them being together while he was just horrible. I just didn't like that he used her.
But it was a great book so even though I didn't like Drake (which took away one star) I did like the book so four stars.
It seemed more like a Beauty and the Beast tale with hints of Snow White. It was a refreshing retelling since it wasn't completely based off of one story.
I also LOVED Enchanted but I didn't love Briar in this book. Which is sad since I did like his character in Enchanted.
This review is my honest opinion. I did NOT receive a complimentary copy. I bought this/ read it on KU.
February 22, 2020
Ohh I absolutely love it sooo much, this was a beautiful, poewerful, magical and romantic story. I adored it.
Rhea was a insecure girl who missed self love and Drake was a grumpy man, together they not only find each other l, but they find them selves. Rhea becomes a powerful strong and confident woman and saves Drake in so many ways, just as he saves her.
I am soo proud of Rhea and happy for her, she found her own worth and love at last
The storyline of Liam was heartbreaking and I needed to put the book down so I could breath again, so emotional and relatable...
I knew from the beginning who the antagonist was and was very pleased to see the story unfold. The love between TRhea and Drake was challenging for me but the grw on me and I love them.
Briar was a easy character to love and so is Elodie. I can't wait for their own story
Overal was this a magical, emotional, romantic love story that gave me all the feels.
Rhea was a insecure girl who missed self love and Drake was a grumpy man, together they not only find each other l, but they find them selves. Rhea becomes a powerful strong and confident woman and saves Drake in so many ways, just as he saves her.
I am soo proud of Rhea and happy for her, she found her own worth and love at last
The storyline of Liam was heartbreaking and I needed to put the book down so I could breath again, so emotional and relatable...
I knew from the beginning who the antagonist was and was very pleased to see the story unfold. The love between TRhea and Drake was challenging for me but the grw on me and I love them.
Briar was a easy character to love and so is Elodie. I can't wait for their own story
Overal was this a magical, emotional, romantic love story that gave me all the feels.
January 31, 2020
Though this book may have been inspired by Snow White, it certainly isn’t in any way a retelling of the famous fairy tale. There are a couple of common elements, but the core story is completely original (I love that the author created her own story instead of retreading through the usual set up). Even though this is book 4 in the series, this can be read as a stand-alone. But you’d get greater enjoyment of it after reading the previous books in the series. Prince Dedric from the first book makes several appearances, and it revisits some of the events from Pathways. Prince Liam from the third book is a central character in this as well. I should mention that Liam is my favorite character from Camille Peters’ books to date. I adored his antics and made up adventures from Identity. And he stayed true to his character in this book as well, lighting up all of the pages he popped up in. So, I was beyond broken when his character came into jeopardy in this book. There were lengthy portions of the book in which I was going “what about Liam?” “Is she going to check on her brother???” In this book Princess Rhea was the central character. She’s shy, insecure (especially after her broken prior engagement), naïve, and rather superficial. I was annoyed Rhea dismissed Prince Nolan from her list of options just because of his sister. I think that off-handed dismissing him colored my opinion of her straight from the start. I did love Drake and how his character grew from being colorful prickly, to teasing, companionable, and caring. I loved just how much emotion and depth he had even though he was just a man in a mirror through most of the book. And Drake and Rhea’s friendship and slow-budding romance were a beautiful thing as opposed to so many books out there with the insta-love. I did love Rhea trying to strengthen her character. And I did like Briar, though I would have liked to have gotten to know him better. My largest troubles with this book were that it felt far too long. I would have appreciated it being closer to 300 pages. At over 400 it drags and repeats quite a few ideas. The largest issue I had was that at around 7 chapters before the end, it felt like there was no hope. Too many things were going wrong, and Rhea was making all the wrong choices. So, at that point, I set the book aside, and I kept finding other books to pick up instead. I kept giving it a chapter and sitting it aside again. So, that last couple of chapters really took me forever to read through.
June 29, 2020
My favorite Camille Peters novel so far! I received an ARC of this fabulous tale and thoroughly enjoyed the journey of Princess Rhea. The KINGDOM CHRONICLES are fairytale retellings that work as stand alone stories, but also connect and best enjoyed if read in order. Major characters in one novel will show up in other books and minor characters will appear/become main characters in others. I love that concept -similar to Melanie Dickerson, Melanie Cellier, or K.M Shea's fairytale retellings.
This is probably the most unique spin on the fairytale "Snow White" I've read -which is saying something coming from me! We met Princess Rheanna in the first KINGDOM CHRONICLES: PATHWAYS as a minor character, but she really shines in this fourth addition of the series. Her insecurities are well-founded. The lies and dark thoughts are very similar to what many modern-day girls (and guys) experience with rejection or fear of loveless situations. The love triangle didn't feel forced and there were a handful of plot twists I didn't piece together! Excitedly, I look forward to future pieces of the KINGDOM CHRONICLES in more novels to come!
This is probably the most unique spin on the fairytale "Snow White" I've read -which is saying something coming from me! We met Princess Rheanna in the first KINGDOM CHRONICLES: PATHWAYS as a minor character, but she really shines in this fourth addition of the series. Her insecurities are well-founded. The lies and dark thoughts are very similar to what many modern-day girls (and guys) experience with rejection or fear of loveless situations. The love triangle didn't feel forced and there were a handful of plot twists I didn't piece together! Excitedly, I look forward to future pieces of the KINGDOM CHRONICLES in more novels to come!
December 14, 2019
Powerful book with love and truth
While a delightful story of magic and love. There was a deep underlying message about learning to believe in yourself. Rheana negative thoughts nearly ruined her happiness. Fortunately she learned what it means to love another and be brave enough to stand up against those who would hold her back from becoming all she was meant to be. I found so many powerful parallels and precious quotes from this book that I can share and apply in my life. It's wonderful when an author can take you on a journey and teach you something valuable at the same time. Highly recommend this book and all in the series!
While a delightful story of magic and love. There was a deep underlying message about learning to believe in yourself. Rheana negative thoughts nearly ruined her happiness. Fortunately she learned what it means to love another and be brave enough to stand up against those who would hold her back from becoming all she was meant to be. I found so many powerful parallels and precious quotes from this book that I can share and apply in my life. It's wonderful when an author can take you on a journey and teach you something valuable at the same time. Highly recommend this book and all in the series!
November 8, 2019
I was very excited to receive this ARC. I love fairy tale retellings and this one did not disappoint. While there were a couple of spelling errors, nothing completely atrocious. My only negative comment is that I figured out the plot within the first 3 chapters. But I love the way Camille writes and I truly enjoy all of her books. I highly recommend this book if you like fairy tales.
March 28, 2020
Sorry
I love the concept of the story . The writing was good, but the story was slow and some bits were very repetitive. And the villian and their method of hurting the crown prince was obvious, but the protagonist didn’t guess it until the very end?! I did like Rhea’s character because her self doubt was realistic. I love how the author described the orchard and the outdoors.
I love the concept of the story . The writing was good, but the story was slow and some bits were very repetitive. And the villian and their method of hurting the crown prince was obvious, but the protagonist didn’t guess it until the very end?! I did like Rhea’s character because her self doubt was realistic. I love how the author described the orchard and the outdoors.
January 8, 2020
Definitely my favorite of this series so far! The writing has matured and the character dynamics felt more believable.
June 29, 2020
Rhea is a reflection (excuse the pun) of a struggle many of us are intimately familiar with: feeling like we're not enough. Whether this be good enough to follow our dreams, pretty/witty/smart enough for a romantic interest, talented enough for a job or position, fighting the whispering doubts of low self-esteem seems to practically be a hallmark of the human condition. It's a battle many women in particular can relate to. And that's exactly why this novel is worth reading: Rhea is a fairytale spokesperson for our inner selves.
Here's the thing: most princesses/female mcs/female protagonists of fantasy novels are strong. Strong-willed, strong physically, strong mannered (sometimes bold, rude even), and strong minded. This isn't a bad thing, but it does put distance between the reader and the heroine. These MCs are paragons and people to look up to, but NOT people we can hold close to our hearts and turn to in times of uncertainty and insecurity.
This is where Rhea, and all of Ms. Peters' wonderfully written protagonists for that matter (but especially Rhea), shines. She is absolutely a strong character, but one who also struggles with self-esteem and self-image. Drake, then, is the essential catalyst for her. What does a mirror do, after all, but reflect? Thus, he can show her, with his words and with the way he's able to intimately see her, her inner beauty and priceless worth.
What a beautiful concept, and what a beautiful story. This was such a gorgeous way of handling these sensitive topics, and I applaud Ms. Peters for writing such a moving and heart-warming novel. There's no doubt in my mind this piece will be turned to by girls for generations when they need a reminder of how worthy they are.
Here's the thing: most princesses/female mcs/female protagonists of fantasy novels are strong. Strong-willed, strong physically, strong mannered (sometimes bold, rude even), and strong minded. This isn't a bad thing, but it does put distance between the reader and the heroine. These MCs are paragons and people to look up to, but NOT people we can hold close to our hearts and turn to in times of uncertainty and insecurity.
This is where Rhea, and all of Ms. Peters' wonderfully written protagonists for that matter (but especially Rhea), shines. She is absolutely a strong character, but one who also struggles with self-esteem and self-image. Drake, then, is the essential catalyst for her. What does a mirror do, after all, but reflect? Thus, he can show her, with his words and with the way he's able to intimately see her, her inner beauty and priceless worth.
What a beautiful concept, and what a beautiful story. This was such a gorgeous way of handling these sensitive topics, and I applaud Ms. Peters for writing such a moving and heart-warming novel. There's no doubt in my mind this piece will be turned to by girls for generations when they need a reminder of how worthy they are.
April 12, 2021
I think I could have enjoyed this a lot more if it had been well edited. There were a lot — a LOT — of conversations, epiphanies and meltdowns that happened again and again, while rather major and obvious plot points were ignored by the main characters for no explainable reason. Like.. you know your mom trapped you in a mirror and cursed your other three siblings AND is poisoning your dad, but you don’t think it’s possible she could be poisoning the crown prince who happened to get sick when she arrived? No no no, she would never. Or, you get immediately sick after drinking his remedy, he tells you he feels sicker after drinking it, and yet WEEKS go by and no one says hmm, let’s try maybe NOT DRINKING THE TEA. And then with the whole love-note/hair comb misunderstanding — just why?? Why would she believe for even a second that he would have done that? She already KNEW that his mom wanted him with Elodie, and was not above sneaking into her room to steal stuff and stick it in Elodie’s room (exhibit A: the mirror).
Okay, I got a lot more ranty than I meant to. I identified strongly with Rhea and her insecurities right away, and I just really wanted to like this story. I’m disappointed that it couldn’t have been polished up more before publishing.
Okay, I got a lot more ranty than I meant to. I identified strongly with Rhea and her insecurities right away, and I just really wanted to like this story. I’m disappointed that it couldn’t have been polished up more before publishing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2021
Woah there! That was unexpected to say in the least. I have to say, after reading the previous books in the series, I had high hopes for this book. I'd like to say that it lived up to my expectations, but even though I gave it a chance, it got old. Fast.
After a point in the story, all of Rhianna's relationship problems seemed to be a manifestation of her insecurities more than anything else. While I enjoyed having another peek into Liam's story, and really liked the supporting characters, this book just could not live upto Identity.
Being one to enjoy fast-paced novels, the pace of this book caused boredom to smack me in the face repeatedly by the halfway point. Right when I think that things are settling down to an end, something new happens that-you know it-sends her into another panic and keeps the book going for another chapter. 🙄
Even though she is reassured of her capabilities many, many times, she just does not trust the people around her and that makes the story repeat in what feels like endless cycles of Rhianna doubting herself and those around her telling her that the glass is half full and she can do it. 😑
This turned me off of fairy tale retellings for a while... 😔
2 stars. ⭐️⭐️
After a point in the story, all of Rhianna's relationship problems seemed to be a manifestation of her insecurities more than anything else. While I enjoyed having another peek into Liam's story, and really liked the supporting characters, this book just could not live upto Identity.
Being one to enjoy fast-paced novels, the pace of this book caused boredom to smack me in the face repeatedly by the halfway point. Right when I think that things are settling down to an end, something new happens that-you know it-sends her into another panic and keeps the book going for another chapter. 🙄
Even though she is reassured of her capabilities many, many times, she just does not trust the people around her and that makes the story repeat in what feels like endless cycles of Rhianna doubting herself and those around her telling her that the glass is half full and she can do it. 😑
This turned me off of fairy tale retellings for a while... 😔
2 stars. ⭐️⭐️
September 3, 2021
Book 4 (Reflection) traced the story of Princess Rheanna as she faced another political betrothal. She had kept to herself her heartbreak at the failure of an earlier match her brother's best friend. Her parents assure her that they will allow her to make her choice, and her elder brother, Crown Prince Liam is adamant that she should choose with her heart and not for duty. A princess is more than a pretty face who seeks her own happiness. She must weigh up the value of her own heart, the welfare of her family and what is best for her country. Everything that she believes about herself and her role in the kingdom is challenged as the story unfolds.
There are handsome princes, a wicked queen, a magical mirror, a mysterious curse and a challenge to break it, as well as many more surprises in store for readers.
There are handsome princes, a wicked queen, a magical mirror, a mysterious curse and a challenge to break it, as well as many more surprises in store for readers.
September 2, 2022
Read: 2020
Reread: July 2022
4.5 stars.
This is such a lovely story. I really enjoyed reading it again. Rheanna is such a good-hearted heroine. I really liked her and I felt more connected to her because I've struggled similarly to her. I loved seeing Drake help her start to overcome that struggle and gain confidence in herself. I liked Drake, though it took time. He definitely experienced growth in this story which was satisfying to watch. In the end, he is very sweet and is perfect for Rhea. I love the other books in the series because you can see what a good husband he is to her.
And the Queen of Malvagaria... Oh boy... She is not good at all... One of her actions made me shed some tears even though I remembered it from the first time I read it.
Overall a good book :)
CONTENT: clean romance, no language, very mild violence
Reread: July 2022
4.5 stars.
This is such a lovely story. I really enjoyed reading it again. Rheanna is such a good-hearted heroine. I really liked her and I felt more connected to her because I've struggled similarly to her. I loved seeing Drake help her start to overcome that struggle and gain confidence in herself. I liked Drake, though it took time. He definitely experienced growth in this story which was satisfying to watch. In the end, he is very sweet and is perfect for Rhea. I love the other books in the series because you can see what a good husband he is to her.
And the Queen of Malvagaria... Oh boy... She is not good at all... One of her actions made me shed some tears even though I remembered it from the first time I read it.
Overall a good book :)
CONTENT: clean romance, no language, very mild violence
January 19, 2022
It's okay, I probably missed more of the nuance that others mention since I listen to the audiobook at bedtime. It started to frustrate me, how quickly the main protagonist would get knocked down and everyone had to bend over double to ensure she's worth it. I know some people really struggle with acceptance, but the guys in the story put a lot of effort to change her mind and keep up her morale. I struggle with characters like this, so it started to wear me thin halfway through. And the primary plot was obvious to me quite early on as well; the characters seemed far too trusting for the plot to hold up as long as it did. The person stuck in a mirror device worked well for the story though. I enjoyed it enough that I may listen to another book in the series.
December 30, 2020
3 stars is a bit generous, but 2 is far too stingy. Here's what I liked: Her take on Snow White is creative and unique, it barely felt like a retelling of Snow White, I actually thought it was closer to an inverse of Beauty and the Beast, so there was so much that was her own plot and planning. And the bones of the plot were decent.
What I didn't like: The heroine was whiny. She was self-absorbed while trying to be selfless?
The author used the same phrase "A sliver of hope" at least 3 times, and a few synonymous phrases (Budding seeds etc.) quite a few times, which makes for unconvincing writing.
Also, allegedly the books are meant to be standalone, but not having read the first 3, I felt like I really was missing useful background context on some of the characters.
What I didn't like: The heroine was whiny. She was self-absorbed while trying to be selfless?
The author used the same phrase "A sliver of hope" at least 3 times, and a few synonymous phrases (Budding seeds etc.) quite a few times, which makes for unconvincing writing.
Also, allegedly the books are meant to be standalone, but not having read the first 3, I felt like I really was missing useful background context on some of the characters.
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