Book Review: Behooved by M. Stevenson
From the moment I stumbled upon the cover of Behooved, I was utterly captivated. Its ethereal beauty hinted at the charm and enchantment that lie within, and I couldn’t resist diving into M. Stevenson’s debut. Enemies-to-lovers, a curse that turns a prince into a horse, and plentiful puns? Count me in! If you’re looking for a fantastical romance infused with magic, humor, and relatable characters, read on.
At the heart of Behooved is the delightful tension between Duchess Bianca Liliana and Prince Aric of Gildenheim. Their arranged marriage, intended to unite their war-torn realms, sets the stage for both conflict and unexpected affection. Bianca, plagued by a chronic illness and familial pressures, is no traditional heroine; she’s beautifully complex, wrestling with her self-worth amidst the weight of expectations. Likewise, Aric, initially painted as a cold and cruel ruler, reveals depths and vulnerabilities that slowly peel away the layers of his aloof facade.
Stevenson’s prose stands out with its lyrical quality, crafting a vivid world steeped in mystery and magic. The pacing keeps readers engaged, often moving seamlessly between moments of lighthearted banter and deeper emotional revelations. One highlight for me was their first awkward yet humorous interaction, where Bianca’s concealed feelings and Aric’s disinterest create a delightful friction that sets the tone for their journey.
As their story unfolds—particularly after an assassination attempt leads to Aric turning into a horse—readers are drawn into a delightful escapade filled with witty dialogue and clever puns. I found myself chuckling at the comedic potential of "saving a horse, riding a prince," which Stevenson executes flawlessly. The moment Bianca reflects on her flaws, saying, "I wasn’t a weapon. I was a hairpin," encapsulates her struggle and the overarching theme of self-acceptance beautifully.
Furthermore, the representation of Bianca’s chronic illness was both timely and essential, allowing readers to connect with her on a deeper level. Stevenson’s author note struck a chord with me—highlighting that fantasy heroines can be diverse, relatable, and empowered, regardless of their physical limitations. This authenticity is refreshing and vital for readers living with similar struggles.
Of course, no story is without its critiques. A few predictable plot twists and repetitive phrasing tugged slightly at my reading experience, preventing it from soaring to a five-star read. Yet, these minor setbacks didn’t overshadow the emotional depth and connection I felt for Bianca and Aric. Their relationship development mirrored real-world dynamics, notably the themes of duty versus desire, showcasing how both characters grow through their shared vulnerabilities.
In conclusion, Behooved is a whimsical, romantic tale that will surely enchant readers who enjoy a blend of humor, magic, and heartfelt character journeys. Perfect for fans of fantastical romances like Sarah J. Maas or Shannon Hale, this charming book offers something special that resonates on multiple levels—inviting us all to embrace our imperfections and seek strength in our connections. I left this book feeling warm, amused, and, yes, a little “unstable.” But in the best possible way! If you’re in search of a tale that’s as enchanting as its cover, grab a copy of Behooved and let Bianca and Aric take you on a ride you won’t soon forget.