Book Review: The Escape of Princess Madeline

Title: The Escape of Princess Madeline
Author: Kristin Pulioff
Genre: YA Fantasy
Publisher: Malachite Quills Publishing
Release Date: November 5th, 2012

The Kingdom of Soron is known for many things, its rolling landscape, haunting history, fiery sunsets, and its beautiful princess. Princess Madeline woke on her sixteenth birthday to realize that her future had been planned out, a life full of privilege, royalty, and boredom… a life with a husband and knight champion that she did not choose. Using her charm, strength and stubbornness, she defies the King at every turn, determined to keep her freedom on her terms.

Freedom quickly turns to disaster as she finds herself seized by a group of wandering bandits. With the kingdom in turmoil over her capture- her Knight Champion eager to prove himself, a group of dedicated suitors determined to win her hand, and a group of exiled wizards join forces to rescue her. Follow Princess Madeline in this adventure to find freedom and love.

Review:

This book starts out strong, has some doubting moments in the middle, and ends strong. The author has a great way to describe setting, especially the castle Madeline grows up in. I could imagine it quite well based on description alone. Princess Madeline, the main character, is forced to marry a man she doesn’t love. And why? Simply because her father, the King, says so. Of course she’s not too pleased with that. When running away from the ball held in her honor doesn’t work, she decides to run away, unknowingly bringing herself in a danger of the likes she never expected.

Madeline may be brave, but she’s also very spoiled, and it shows. I liked her, but only up to some degree; I imagine younger children will adore her though, because she’s witty and humorous and not afraid of saying what she thinks. I actually liked her twin brother better, who was more calm and moderate, but of course that’s my own opinion.

The story isn’t necessary that original, but it was a fun read, and well-executed. The plot was solid, and although I thought the scenes in the woods could’ve been a bit clearer, overall I really enjoyed it. The characters made up for the ‘been there, done that’ plot and I feel like the sequel may dive into more original territory.

A nice read for younger children, say middle grade and up.