This story is a very loose retelling of Beauty in the Beast. I like the marriage trope and the characters have a good start. I like the idea of them falling for each other regardless of circumstance. The pit falls that they have are realistic, but the actual impending threats didn't build the tension for me as much. I think this is a good entry level quick read, but if you are wanting more World building and political turmoil long with romance you might find this lack luster.