A Deceptive Alliance, Sydney Blackburn

An alliance between two kingdoms rests on the happy marriage of Isabel and Prince Darin.  But when Isabel disappears and doesn't return for the proxy wedding, it's up to Kel to take her place...temporarily.  Except he's a man and a twin, two very big marks against him according to the peace treaty and customs of Pervayne.  He'll have to keep up the ruse if he wants to save their lives and their alliance.  Not everything is as it seems, however, and Kel might not be the only one hiding things.

Kel was truly interesting with his abilities as well as his understanding of his country's situation regarding his sister's irresponsibility and impulsiveness.  Covering for her selfishness and poor decision-making more than once in this story showed how mature and selfless he was.  He was also no pushover.  The way he would stand up for "himself" to Dare and the other guard was admirable.  All the difficulty of assuming his sister's role was described really well, none of the awkwardness was overlooked.

Dare's character was slightly predictable but it was his confession and acceptance of his chastisement that made me like him.  His sincerity regarding his former lover's attitude and actions was admirable but a little dismissive as if they weren't that big of a deal when pretty much anyone could see that it was, based on that spurned lover's reaction to seeing Kel.  You can also kind of tell that he really isn't the heir apparent because he's a bit oblivious and slightly clueless about getting his way with his very domineering father or just acting in a way to be taken seriously once they reach his kingdom.

I liked the reasoning for both men's deception over the journey.  While Michael judged Kel unfairly and treated him with jealous prejudice I was wondering if that would become a bigger conflict but they quickly found common ground and became friends and allies regarding Dare.

The idea of the Kindred was definitely something more modern in expression and acknowledgment while placed in a historical setting that seemed both fitting and radical at the same time.  And the king's decree regarding the marriage is pretty much what many of us would like to see happen today; the way it was written made it a beautiful sentiment more than a current-time political statement.

I enjoyed this story quite a lot.  The conflict was really in the consequences of the revelation rather than anything external coming at them first.  And nothing more insidious than irresponsibility and extreme caution threatened them as well.  There were other events that could have turned into something more dangerous or become more of a hindrance to their HEA but everything resolved quickly and simply.  Perhaps too simply, but that's the beauty of something filled with love and fluff...if you're not feeling that type of story, you should skip this one.  Otherwise, enjoy the simple love and the strong characters that influence a happier future for all.

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