52 Books to Review #2: The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson

When my step-mother handed me her copy of The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson, I wasn't even sure I would actually read it.  When it comes to historical romances, I usually go for the regency era, and I wasn't really sure how I would feel about a medieval romance.  But as my step-mother was absolutely certain that I would enjoy the story I took it anyway, and eventually I actually started reading it.

And I loved it.

Summary (as found on Goodreads)

The Margrave of Thornbeck has to find a bride, fast. He invites ten noble-born ladies from around the country to be his guests at Thornbeck Castle for two weeks, a time to test these ladies and reveal their true character.

Avelina is only responsible for two things: making sure her deception goes undetected and avoiding being selected as the margrave’s bride. Since the latter seems unlikely, she concentrates on not getting caught. No one must know she is merely a maidservant, sent by the Earl of Plimmwald to stand in for his daughter, Dorothea.

Despite Avelina’s best attempts at diverting attention from herself, the margrave has taken notice. And try as she might, she can’t deny her own growing feelings. But something else is afoot in the castle. Something sinister that could have far worse—far deadlier—consequences. Will Avelina be able to stop the evil plot? And at what cost?

First of all, let me just say that I love the whole premise of her trying to NOT let the Margrave fall in love with her.  I think it's brilliant, and honestly, quite refreshing.  It certainly adds to Avelina's character, and makes her all the more charming (especially when she tries so hard not to fall for him herself and convince him that he should choose one of the other girls).

I loved that the characters weren't atypical and that they did not fall under the same categories as your average fairy tale heroes and heroines.  Avelina is handy at picking locks (a fun little quirk that comes in handy), and the Margrave, though rough and fierce at times, is also hopeless when it comes to finding a wife, which makes him all the more lovable.

While this tale is not nearly as action packed or fast paced as my previous read, it definitely moves forward, and leaves you guessing.  Will the Margrave find out the truth before it's too late?  Will Avelina confide in her new found friend?  Who is the strange woman that interrupted the Margrave's ball?  Are the rumors surrounding the Margrave's appointment to his position true?

If you love a good historical romance, and don't object to a few German words here and there, I would certainly recommend this book.

Next up:  The Huntress of Thornbeck by Melanie Dickerson