The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson

From the publisher:

The Margrave of Thornbeck has to find a bride, fast. He invites ten noble born ladies who meet the king’s approval to be his guests at Thornbeck Castle for two weeks, a time to test these ladies and reveal their true character.

Avelina has only two instructions: keep her true identity a secret and make sure the margrave doesn’t select her as his bride. Since the latter seems unlikely, she concentrates on not getting caught. No one must know she is merely a maidservant, sent by the Earl of Plimmwald to stand in for his daughter, Dorothea.

Despite Avelina’s best attempts at diverting attention from herself, the margrave has taken notice. And try as she might, she can’t deny her own growing feelings. But something else is afoot in the castle. Something sinister that could have far worse—far deadlier—consequences

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Melanie Dickerson has a way of drawing you into the story and creating characters the are modern yet medieval.  Avelina's character speaks modern words but lives a very medieval life and must obey those in charge.  The Margave of Thornbeck is a more traditional character in actions and deeds.  The story flowed well and I was eager to keep returning to the story.

This is the second book the the Medieval Fairy Tale Novels and answers some questions readers might have from the first book The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest.  While I have read the first in the series and enjoyed it, readers don't have to read that first book to enjoy this book.

The end seemed a bit fanciful and over the top but it was probably just my feelings as I read it.  I see the desire to create a climactic ending for the reasons within the story.

Overall it was very well done and I enjoyed it. I recommend this book.

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.