Royally Screwed (Royally, #1)

by Emma Chase

I’m Dorothy gazing down at the Emerald City. I’m Wendy rising in the air after my first pinch of pixie dust. I’m…I laugh to myself…I’m Cinderella, stepping into her coach to go to the ball. And even if this night is all there is, I won’t forget it;

This entire chapter pretty much revolves around this section. I needed a way to explain how Olivia, someone with limited financial means, would be able to find a nice dress befitting a date with a prince, on such short notice. But, more importantly, I loved the idea of exploring her thoughts just before the date. On one hand, Olivia is resigned to her situation (just as Nicholas is resigned to his) - and while it’s not the life she would have chosen for herself, she doesn’t let it drag her down. She doesn’t complain or get wrapped up in all the things she can’t have. She accepts the good times when they come - and grabs onto happiness when she can with both hands - determined to cherish those moments to help her through the rough times. That aspect of her personality, in part, is what makes her such a likable character for me.