Malice
480 Pages
Publisher: Del Rey
Release Date: April 13, 2021
I love finding books about villains and I hoped I would enjoy this one. I was not wrong. This is the story of Princess Aurora of Briar. She is the last heir to the throne. The line of queens was cursed that if they do not meet their true love by their 21st birthday, they will die. Each heir has the briar rose mark on their arm which disappears after true love’s first kiss.
The realm has Graces that have magical blood and make elixirs to give beauty, wisdom, pleasure, etc. to the anyone that can pay for their services. They cannot leave the realm until their blood fades. There is one Grace that is different from the rest – The Dark Grace. She is half Vila and has green blood instead of the gold blood of the Graces. Her name is Alyce, although Rose calls her Malyce.
While attending the princess’ 20th birthday party, Alyce is humiliated by Rose. Alyce leaves the ballroom and runs out into the garden. She turns the water in the fountain into mud much to the delight of the princess. The princess and Alyce become friends and work together to break the curse.
The book is written in first person point of view. The characters are developed and the story is fast paced. If you love fairy tiles but think the princess can save herself, you will enjoy this book. It has a different twist on the traditional story. I really hope there is another book after this one.
