PRINCESS OF AIR

A princess contends with a love triangle while competing with her siblings for the throne in Cammaratta’s fantasy novel.

For generations, the kingdom of Alchos has been ruled by royals who possess the magical power to bend the elements to their will. Traditionally, this ability goes to a single heir, who leaches it from their predecessor. But Queen Elea Exos divided her power equally among her four children: Prince Rylan, Princess Arabella, Prince Marcus, and Princess Nina have command over earth, air, water, and fire, respectively. Rylan, the eldest, is the presumed heir to throne, but before his coronation, Queen Elea tells her children that she has decided that all four siblings will instead compete with each other for the job in a series of trials. “Power to rule came with magic. With the magic split…it’s agreed that each of the four of you have equal claim to the throne,” she explains. Arabella doesn’t want to compete with her siblings. She’s betrothed to Prince Jamys Merrick of the neighboring kingdom Ceraun—meaning that, if she wins, she will be both Queen of Alchos and Queen-Consort of Ceraun, and the prospect of such a responsibility is unbearably overwhelming. Arabella isn’t thrilled about her betrothal, but the marriage would solidify the alliance between the two kingdoms, and she feels a strong sense of duty to both her family and her country. She intends to make the best of it…but her heart belongs to another. Cammaratta’s novel is an exciting blend of fantasy, romance, and palace intrigue. Arabella is a compelling and complex protagonist who narrates with both earnestness and a dry wit. The story is well paced and engaging, with memorable characters and plenty of magical mischief and mayhem. Readers may find some parts predictable, but this doesn’t overly detract from the story.

A thoroughly entertaining tale of royalty, loyalty, and love.