A Thousand Heartbeats

Content warnings: abuse, imprisonment, war, violence, murder

Princess Annika falls for her kingdom's enemy.

Princess Annika Vedette of Kadier is a romantic. She spends her free time in the library, reading about a love she can never have. For the good of Kadier, Annika must marry Nickolas, a distant cousin with a claim to the throne. Their marriage will merge the bloodlines and keep Annika's family safe.

Lennox lives in a rundown castle with other Dahrainians. Their oral histories state that Kadier is actually Dahrain and that the land was stolen from them. In an effort to cripple Kadier, Lennox kidnaps Annika. But he underestimates the princess, who can fight with a sword, pick locks, and is much more resourceful than a sheltered noblewoman.

After Annika escapes, the two peoples must figure out a solution before all-out war begins in Annika's kingdom. The growing love between Lennox and Annika is their greatest secret, motivating them to find the best solution for each country.

Recommended for fans of YA romance, especially those who enjoy star-crossed lovers stories. Fans of YA historicals or fantasy (without the magic) will also find something to enjoy here.

Kiera Cass is a South Carolina native living in Los Angeles. She is a bestselling YA author.

Publisher: HarperTeen

Length: 576 pages

Release Date: December 6, 2022

I received an electronic galley copy of this title from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.