Book Review: Prince’s Gambit by C.S. Pacat

Title: Prince’s Gambit
Series: Captive Prince, Book 2
Author: C.S. Pacat
Genre: Fantasy Romance, M/M Romance
Sensuality Rating: Erotic
Source: review copy provided by publisher
Published: July 7, 2015 by Berkley

With their countries on the brink of war, Damen and his new master, Prince Laurent, must exchange the intrigues of the palace for the sweeping might of the battlefield as they travel to the border to avert a lethal plot.

Forced to hide his identity, Damen finds himself increasingly drawn to the dangerous, charismatic Laurent. But as the fledgling trust between the two men deepens, the truth of secrets from both their pasts is poised to deal them the crowning death blow…

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Reviewed by: Crissy and Babs

Crissy: As much as I loved Captive Prince (my review), I love Prince’s Gambit times about a thousand. This book is high fantasy and enemies to lovers and action in its best form. For real, I’m not sure I can love it anymore.

Babs: This is a great series and fabulous book. I loved that unlike most m/m I’ve read, the conflict isn’t whether one hero is afraid to go public with the relationship or come out. This world accepts same sex relationships already and in some instances it’s expected. A unique way to handle what I’ve read as a common conflict in m/m. But in this world Laurent and Damen have problems like they’re supposed to be mortal enemies, they have two kingdoms to save. Little things.

Crissy: Oh, I agree. That’s why I’m drawn to the fantasy of m/m because same sex relationships aren’t unheard of or looked down upon as often. Especially in this series.

In the first book, the connection between Damen and Laurent was a struggle. With this book we really get to see it blossom into a true wanting and desire. Trust is grown between them. So in that we see Damen’s inner struggle—wanting to go home, to take back his kingdom and wanting to be what Laurent needs. It’s intense and delicious.

Babs: I completely agree! I loved the buildup of tension. Nothing really happens between Laurent and Damen in Captive Prince and most of this book. So many times I was like “JUST KISS ALREADY!” But I think it was all timed perfectly—any true physical intimacy needed to happen when they were on more equal ground, not just slave Damen and Prince Laurent.

Crissy: What’s truly amazing with this story is all of the nooks and crannies this author finds. The twists you never see coming. I love the mind of Laurent. Where the Regent’s men and even Damen see him as a spoiled, pampered weakling, Laurent is truly brilliant and cunning. He’s always two steps ahead… until his anger gets in the way. But luckily enough, Damen has his back.

Babs: Yes, there’s so much intrigue and behind-the-scenes machinations. I think Laurent is so well written and seems to always be not just one step ahead, but many steps ahead of everyone. I also loved the author’s use of language. She used sometimes archaic words I had to look up that fit the tone of the story perfectly.

Crissy: Some archaic but then some common, everyday language. I found it fascinating the way they balanced well.  I don’t want to give away the ending, but God! It’s fantabulous. Seriously. I was left breathless. I’m now counting down the days until February 2nd (214 as of July 3rd, I know, I’m a little obsessed). I cannot wait.

Babs: So much to talk about and theorize with that ending! I have my own theory but don’t want to spoil anything. I can’t wait to find out how the author wraps everything up in Kings Rising.

Crissy: There’s nothing I don’t love about this one. It was all kinds of right in all kinds of ways. The only complaint you’ll hear from me is how long I have to wait for the next book.

Babs: I absolutely loved this book! There is one part I had a little problem with. I won’t get into details but there’s one scene I struggle with why it happened and if Laurent and Damen had these feelings for each other, why Damen would do it and why Laurent let it happen since he was in a position to stop it. Maybe because at that point in the story they don’t know if they can/will be together? Not a deal breaker for me but I am conflicted about that one part.

Crissy: I’m fairly certain I know what you’re talking about, but I saw that as more of Laurent’s strategy in that certain situation. Either way, it worked for me. In my opinion, this book—this series—is a must read, must devour.

Crissy’s Rating:

Babs: I’m right there with you! I was late to the series anyway having just read Captive Prince this spring and now that I’m into it I want it all now! I can’t wait for Kings Rising.

Bab’s Rating: