A review by kelsiereads15
An Island Princess Starts a Scandal by Adriana Herrera

challenging emotional hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

I don’t think I’ve ever read a historical romance that I’ve loved as quickly as this book. 

I genuinely cried reading this book, and that’s rare for me. Adriana Herrera is a master at her craft, with an ability to tell these magical stories that are still grounded in truth and history. I cannot wait to read everything else she’s ever written and will write. 

Manuela my ANGEL. She is spectacular. Her love for art and the attention she paid to caring for and cultivating relationships with the women around her made me so emotional. I am deeply obsessed with books that focus on women and their friendships and relationships. Between Manuela, Aurora, and Luz Alana and Cora’s circle of trust, this book is overflowing with strong, wonderful characters who fight for what they want and work to right the injustices of the world around them. 

Cora OH MY GOD I love her. She’s constantly pushing to prove herself to men who don’t see her as anything other than what she can do for them. Watching her grow to realize what truly matters to her and her worth outside of what she can do for others was such a rewarding aspect of this book. Her love for Manuela was deep and overflowing. The way she interrupted at the end of this book was iconic, and I love her. 

They have such a beautiful love and care for each other, and I just want them to get everything they want forever and ever. This book, once again, shows us the strength of women and their abilities to get shit done. I truly adore them, and I am so glad we get to see them again in the next book. They overcome so much just to be able to love each other freely. And it hits you straight in the heart. 

Adriana Herrera is spectacular at telling these stories, and I cannot wait for more.