ARC Review: The Princess Plan by Julia London

The Princess Plan
Author: Julia London
Series: A Royal Wedding
Publication: HQN; Original edition (November 19, 2019)

Description: Princes have pomp and glory—not crushes on commoners

Nothing gets the tongues of London’s high society wagging like a good scandal. And when the personal secretary of the visiting Prince Sebastian of Alucia is found murdered, it’s all anyone can talk about, including Eliza Tricklebank. Her unapologetic gossip gazette has benefited from an anonymous tip about the crime, prompting Sebastian to take an interest in playing detective—and an even greater interest in Eliza.

With a trade deal on the line and mounting pressure to secure a noble bride, there’s nothing more salacious than a prince dallying with a commoner. Sebastian finds Eliza’s contrary manner as frustrating as it is seductive, but they’ll have to work together if they’re going to catch the culprit. And when things heat up behind closed doors, it’s the prince who’ll have to decide what comes first—his country or his heart.

My Thoughts: The Crown Prince of Alucia has come to London with two goals: negotiate a favorable trade treaty and find an English bride. He wasn't expecting to meet Miss Eliza Tricklebank who is a spinster and one of the authors of the latest ladies' gossip sheet. Eliza's father is a judge which leads to their meeting.

When the Crown Prince's private secretary is murdered in Kensington Palace and a not implicating one of his party is delivered to the judge, both Sebastian and Eliza are determined to bring the murderer to justice. Sparks fly when the two of them meet. Eliza knows that a past scandal and lack of dowry and influence make her ineligible as a potential bride. Sebastian knows that his duty says he needs to pick one of the young women who have the right background and assets to make a suitable bride.

I enjoyed that the romance was wrapped around a mystery. I thought it added depth to the standard historical romance. I liked the Eliza was a smart and helpful partner in the investigation. I liked that her practical nature didn't stop her from falling love with the prince. I liked Sebastian and the way he found a way to end up with the woman with whom he had fallen in love.

This was an entertaining and well-written historical romance and mystery. Both parts of the story were strong.

Favorite Quote:

"I'm very sorry, Miss Tricklebank, but I can't leave this to you."

"Oh, dear. Did I mistakenly ask your permission. I assure you, that was not my intent." She smiled again, her eyes sparkling with delight.

"You must be the most irreverent, disobedient person I have ever met in all my years," he said with exasperation.

"Really? In all your years? Perhaps you ought to go abroad more often, sir. I am disobedient because I am not your subject."

I received this one in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley. You can buy your copy here.