Leslie North's Royal Service, the first installment in the Royals of Danovar series, is a delightful foray into the world of royal romance, where duty and desire collide in a captivating narrative. The story revolves around King Phillip, a quintessential Prince Charming, and Ella Fernstone, a servant with dreams of her own. North skillfully weaves a tale that explores themes of love, freedom, and the complexities of royal obligations, making it a compelling read for fans of contemporary romance and fairy tale retellings.

At the heart of the story is King Phillip, who embodies the classic traits of a romantic hero. With his golden hair and charming demeanor, he is every girl's fantasy. However, North adds depth to his character by portraying his internal struggle with the expectations placed upon him as a king. Phillip's reluctance to enter a marriage based on political alliances rather than genuine affection is a refreshing take on the royal romance trope. His character development throughout the novel is commendable; he evolves from a man burdened by duty to one who dares to pursue true love, challenging the status quo of his royal life.

On the other hand, we have Ella Fernstone, a character who resonates with readers on multiple levels. Ella's journey from being a family servant to a potential queen is both inspiring and relatable. After the death of her father, she finds herself relegated to the shadows of her stepmother's ambitions, which adds a layer of complexity to her character. Ella's desire for freedom and her dream of competitive riding serve as powerful motivators that drive her actions throughout the story. North does an excellent job of portraying Ella's internal conflict as she grapples with the idea of marrying off her stepsisters to the king while secretly yearning for a life of her own. This duality makes her a compelling protagonist, and readers will find themselves rooting for her every step of the way.

The chemistry between Phillip and Ella is palpable, and North masterfully builds their relationship from initial attraction to a deeper emotional connection. Their interactions are filled with tension and longing, particularly highlighted by the handwritten love letters and the stolen kisses that punctuate their encounters. North's writing shines in these moments, capturing the essence of romance in a way that feels both genuine and enchanting. The author deftly balances the romantic elements with the realities of royal life, ensuring that the stakes remain high for both characters.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Royal Service is its exploration of the theme of servitude versus freedom. Ella's initial goal is to marry one of her stepsisters off to Phillip, believing that this will grant her the freedom she so desperately seeks. However, as she grows closer to the king, she begins to question what true freedom means. This theme resonates deeply, as it reflects the struggles many face when navigating societal expectations and personal desires. North invites readers to ponder whether love can truly exist within the confines of duty, and whether one can find happiness in a role that seems predetermined.

The supporting characters in the novel also add richness to the narrative. Ella's stepmother and stepsisters serve as antagonists, embodying the societal pressures and expectations that Ella seeks to escape. Their motivations are clear, and North does an admirable job of fleshing them out, making them more than just one-dimensional villains. This complexity enhances the overall tension in the story, as Ella must navigate not only her feelings for Phillip but also the dynamics of her family and their ambitions.

North's writing style is engaging and accessible, making Royal Service an easy read that flows smoothly from one chapter to the next. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of tension interspersed with lighter, romantic scenes that keep readers invested in the characters' journeys. The vivid descriptions of the royal setting and the emotional depth of the characters create a rich tapestry that draws readers into the world of Danovar.

In comparison to other royal romances, such as The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan or Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston, Royal Service stands out for its focus on the internal struggles of its characters rather than solely on the external pressures of royal life. While those novels also explore themes of love and duty, North's approach is more introspective, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

Overall, Royal Service is a charming and heartfelt romance that will appeal to fans of the genre. Leslie North has crafted a story that balances the allure of royal life with the realities of love and personal ambition. The characters are relatable, the romance is swoon-worthy, and the themes are thought-provoking, making this book a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good fairy tale with a modern twist. As the first book in the Royals of Danovar series, it sets a promising foundation for future installments, and readers will undoubtedly be eager to see where North takes these characters next.