A Choice of Crowns
A Choice of Crowns by Barb Hendee Kensington Books Rebel Base Books Sci Fi & Fantasy Pub Date 06 Feb 2018
Review
You could say A Choice of Crowns is three novels in one. Olivia Geroux is betrothed to King Rowan. She knew he was reluctant to marry, but didn't realize it was because of his obsession with his stepsister, Princess Ashton. When she witnesses her greatest ally arranging for Ashton’s death, Olivia is given a remarkable opportunity - to see the results of the three paths open to her. First, the novel continues as if she hesitates before acting. Then she sees what will happen if she calls for help. Finally she sees what happens if she stops the murder herself. In each case the novel plays through to the conclusion. At the end she must choose based on the results she sees within the magic mirror. It’s an interesting approach. I expect that Barb Hendee will use the same technique in future novels in this series. The magic mirror will appear at an important crossroads in the central character’s life and will show the consequences of their actions or inactions.
I enjoyed A Choice of Crowns. Barb Hendee does an excellent job bringing Olivia’s dilemma to life, and making that choice a difficult one.
4 / 5
I received a copy of A Choice of Crowns from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
Description Olivia Geroux knew her king was reluctant to marry her, whatever the negotiations had arranged. But she never expected to find handsome, arrogant King Rowan obsessed with his stepsister instead. And before she can determine what course to take, she overhears her greatest ally plotting to murder the princess. Olivia must act quickly—and live with whatever chaos results. As the assassin hunts his prey, a magic mirror appears to show Olivia the three paths that open before her . . . ~ If she hesitates only a moment, the princess will die—and she will become queen. ~ If she calls for help, she will gain great power—but she must also thrust away her own happiness. ~ If she runs to stop the murder herself, she will know love and contentment—but her whole country will suffer. As she lives out each path, her wits and courage will be tested as she fights to protect her people, her friends, and her heart. And deciding which to follow will be far from easy . . .
