Medieval Fairy Tale The Beautiful Pretender: A Clean Fairy Tale Retelling Inspired by Beauty and the Beast and the Princess and the Pea, Book 2, (Paperback)

This is the first book I have read by Melanie Dickerson, and I can honestly say it won't be my last. The Beautiful Pretender drew me in from the first page. Dickerson made me feel as if I was transported to 1363, and I enjoyed every bit of it. The characters were relatable, and I grew to easily love them. The book was filled with twists and turns, and I found it nearly impossible to put down. The story follows the Margrave of Thornbeck and Avelina as they get to know each other, but what secrets are they keeping? Avelina has always felt like she wasn't any different than the Earl's daughter. When the Earl asks her to go Thornbeck Castle in place of her, she doesn't have a choice, but worries she will be discovered. Her goals are to hide their deception, be ordinary, and not get picked to be the bride. Not being taught how to properly act or talk leaves her little choice but to be herself. Avelina feels that her answers, though one hundred percent truthful, will easily dissuade Lord Thornbeck from choosing her. What she doesn't count on is enjoying spending time with him. Can she fight these growing feelings knowing that they can never be together? Can she discover who is behind the danger? This was my favorite type of book. I love it when two unlikely people fall in love. Dickerson mixed the perfect amount of romance and suspense. Avelina is an awesome heroine. She is comfortable in her own skin and isn't afraid to say what is on her mind. She is also loyal to those she loves, and will do everything in her power to help them in any way she can. Lord Thornbeck is the perfect hero. He might seem gruff on the outside, but he has yet to learn what true love is. He is a handsome soldier. Need I say more? I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.