Book: Prince of Rats by Chrissa Carrington
Reviewed by Weird | weird.reads.books
Rating: 4/5
Two Vlad Dracula reviews in one week? I didn’t plan that, but here we are—and I’m not mad about it. This one is a historical romance that reimagines Vlad in a more human, compelling light. Set in a richly drawn royal court, it leans hard into whispered alliances and strategy, with a heroine who refuses to sit pretty while the men play the game. Our FMC, Ilona, anchors the story with an observant, witty read on people that makes every negotiation feel like one wrong move could topple a throne.
I loved the political intrigu. Ilona’s defiance of expectations isn’t subtle, and she’s quick to learn whatever she must to spy on behalf of the king’s betrothed. Her boldness and occasional naiveté land her in trouble, but that sharp tongue often gets her back out again. Vlad wears two faces: cruel and impassive for the world, unexpectedly soft behind closed doors. His “Birdy” for Ilona made my heart do a silly little flutter, and their drawn-out pull has a deliciously gothic, yearning vibe. If you’re hunting for spice, temper expectations, because this is the slowest of slow burns.
The pacing wobbled for me. The middle sags with repeated beats, and a tighter edit could smooth the flow. It also reads like a clear opener, with several threads positioned rather than resolved to lead into book two. None of this killed the fun, but it did pull me out in spots.
This novel is a compelling, intrigue-forward historical romance with memorable leads and court politics that scratch the itch. I'm looking forward to book two of this trilogy. If you prefer strategy over spectacle and a very patient burn, add this to your TBR.
Thank you to Wings & Words and Chrissa Carrington for the ARC. All opinions are my own.