Book: This Damsel is not in Distress by Tee Harlowe
Reviewed by Micca
Rating: 5/5
I absolutely ADORED this book!! Tee Harlowe not only can write a book full of laughs, banter, and spice, but also with adorable creatures. Before I talk about the people, I need to stress to you how much I love Morton. He is a pink bookwyrm, has a sassy personality, and I would fight anyone for him. Okay, now to the main plot of the book, I guess. (I love you, Morton!!)
Niamh is living in a tower that is truly magical. It is where she has safely been living since she had to run from her kingdom after there was a horrible attack. There is absolutely no reason to leave the tower. Everything she needs is provided, with Morton there keeping her informed and providing companionship. That is, until someone decides she needs to be “rescued”. The nerve!!!
Wolfe is the bodyguard to his brother, Cillian, the High Prince. Cillian is positive that the prophecy he has been told means they are to rescue this damsel in the tower to become his queen. You can hear Wolfe roll his eyes about this. He is an absolute grump, and determined to keep his brother safe. Cillian has his head in the clouds, but loves his people. Niamh, well she is NOT happy about them “rescuing” her! However, she is interested in where she is going, if this story about becoming queen is real, what do they mean there is a sentient castle, and it has to decide if she stays or not? She is downright chatty the entire trip. Partly out of her sunny personality, partly out of fear, and a huge part because the more Wolfe wants her to just be quiet the more questions she has for him.
Niamh is also 40, plus sized, and is carrying around a lot of trauma. Other than living in a sentient castle, she is so relatable! Books are her happy place, so her and Morton go together perfectly! Wolfe is also carrying around a lot of trauma, and he just wants to be left alone. Well, Niamh doesn’t let a grumpy attitude stop her from talking his ear off anytime she sees him, or anyone else in the kingdom. Will grumpy vs sunshine end up causing her to be kicked out of the kingdom?
This book is PACKED with banter, lessons on facing trauma, forgiveness, all with spice sprinkled in.
The audiobook is coming as well, and it is fantastic. I was going to read the ARC really slow so I could follow along while listening to the ALC. Yeah, I couldn’t put the book down, so I got to kick my feet and giggle all over again listening to the audiobook. Gail Shalan and Patrick Zeller do a fabulous job narrating. You can pre-order the ebook, signed paperback (regular or foil cover), and/or audiobook all on Tee’s website. If you hurry, you can possibly get your copy early! This Damsel is Not in Distress releases on March 26, 2026.
My review and opinions are my own.