A Princess in Theory by Alyssa Cole | Reluctant Royals #1

A Princess in Theory by Alyssa Cole | Reluctant Royals #1 

February 27th 2018 by Avon
Source: Bought

Between grad school and multiple jobs, Naledi Smith doesn’t have time for fairy tales…or patience for the constant e-mails claiming she’s betrothed to an African prince. Sure. Right. Delete! As a former foster kid, she’s learned that the only things she can depend on are herself and the scientific method, and a silly e-mail won’t convince her otherwise.
Prince Thabiso is the sole heir to the throne of Thesolo, shouldering the hopes of his parents and his people. At the top of their list? His marriage. Ever dutiful, he tracks down his missing betrothed. When Naledi mistakes the prince for a pauper, Thabiso can’t resist the chance to experience life—and love—without the burden of his crown.

The chemistry between them is instant and irresistible, and flirty friendship quickly evolves into passionate nights. But when the truth is revealed, can a princess in theory become a princess ever after?

I don't know why I waited so long to read Alyssa Cole but here we are. I'm kicking myself for not starting this book earlier (I've owned it for a while now). Naledi is a woman after my own heart and I loved her so much. She's driven and smart and really pushes herself to be the best that she can be. She also doesn't have time for me (a mood) but it all changes when Thabiso comes into her life. Naledi has been hardened by her life experiences and even though she doesn't want that to shape all of the who she is, I love that she never shies away from what it has taught her. Coming to understand our past in order to better move on to our futures is so important no matter how much it hurts us and Alyssa Cole did a great job of showing this in Naledi.  

Naledi isn't who Thabiso expected her to be and he has so many ideas built up in his mind about who she's going to be that their first meeting is *awful*. Watching Thabiso come undone by Naledi in the most unexpected ways was just a joy to watch. He's known as a wanted bachelor who is suave and good with the ladies completely be out of his element with Naledi added a great depth to their story. 

 Seeing Naledi and Thabiso work though their presumptions about each other was a delight. Breaking down walls and getting to know each other for who they truly are was such a great experience for me.

My review of the entire series: 

A Princess in Theory (Reluctant Royals, #1) 

A Duke by Default (Reluctant Royals, #2) 

Once Ghosted, Twice Shy (Reluctant Royals, #2.5) 

Can't Escape Love (Reluctant Royals, #2.6) 

A Prince on Paper (Reluctant Royals, #3)