The story is predictable, although not always a straight, smooth path tragedy and heartbreak are part of the bargain. There's the handsome, perfect-boyfriend king, the equally handsome mysterious newcomer, and in the middle of it all The Betrothed herself, likable Hollis, who wants to be more than someone's arm candy and who isn't afraid to be herself at all times. Readers who love to devour all things romantic and royal will enjoy this serving from Kiera Cass, author of the popular The Selection series. Hollis is a positive role model of empathy, integrity, honest communication, and strong bonds of friendship. Ale and mead are mentioned at social occasions, one character acts tipsy once, and main-character Hollis drinks a tankard of ale quickly once when she's under stress. One character mentions she's had multiple miscarriages. Important characters die, so grief and loss are strong themes, mainly toward the end.

There's some implied, 'off screen' violence from sounds and the aftermath of an attack with no direct descriptions, but the aftermath is described without much detail and no gore. The romance is confined to describing feelings and a few kisses without a lot of detail. Parents need to know that The Betrothed is a romance set in an imagined world by veteran author Kiera Cass ( The Selection series). Hollis chugs a tankard of ale once when she's emotionally stressed.ĭid you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide. Ale at social occasions, one character acts tipsy once.

Kiera cass books the betrothed