Ashton E. Dorow

The Runaway Prince by Ashton E. Dorow is the third book in the Royals of Acuniel series. Each of these novels is inspired by stories in scripture, and The Runaway Prince was inspired by the parable of The Prodigal Son. Roland and Elyse’s story is unique in that they have loved each other since childhood, but life’s difficulties and disappointments create a painful separation between them.
As with this author’s other novels, I loved this story from the very beginning. I admired Elyse’s strength and determination to hold on to her faith through trying times. And just like with the parable, I think we can all relate to Roland’s rebellious streak in one way or another. His story is a tear-jerker to be sure!
I loved the characters in this novel and the slow-burn second-chance romance. And above all, I loved the spiritual growth of these characters and how wonderfully their faith was woven into the rest of the story. This is Christian fiction at it’s best–entertaining, encouraging, and challenging to our faith.
Overall, I loved Roland and Elyse’s story and look forward to whatever is next from this author! Fans of historical romance, especially Medieval romance must read this book!
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.… (more)

The Love of a Princess by Ashton E. Dorrow is the second book in The Royals of Acuniel series. I've been eagerly anticipating Adelaide's story since reading The Peasant Queen last year. And this story did not disappoint! I loved this medieval romance inspired by the story of Ruth.
Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite troupes, and this one was full of unique twists. I especially loved the proposal! But I most enjoyed the slow weaving of Adelaide and Nicholas's hearts.
I loved Adelaide and seeing both her mother and father's qualities within her. She is truly noble both in blood and heart, and I admired her servant's heart. She reminded me of what my true role in life is, too–serving others with God's love.
And I loved her slow burn, sweet romance with Nicholas. What a beautiful journey to watch two heartbroken people find joy in each other. There were many swoony sighs while reading their scenes together!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and following Nicholas's journey as he took on the many burdens of running a kingdom. With exciting battles scenes, romantic dinners by the fire, the danger and dread of plague, and the comfort and strength of family and faith, there are so many aspects of this story to keep you reading page after page.
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.… (more)

The Peasant Queen is a beautiful debut novel by Ashton E. Dorow. Written as an Esther retelling, the story is both familiar and unique. The book of Esther has one of my favorite verses, which reminds us that God has a purpose in our circumstances even when we don’t understand them ourselves. So, I loved how one of the themes for Arabella was struggling to understand why God would put her in the position of queen and finding her purpose. I could identify with Arabella’s struggle to continually search for God’s will in her life. Sometimes His plans are not clear to us.
Arabella may have been born a peasant, but she had all the determination, courage, and generosity of a magnificent queen. I adored her from the beginning--for both her poise and her more youthful, free spirit. To me, the heroine makes or breaks a story, and I felt like Arabella was the heart of the story--and her kingdom.
Ah, Rowan. Handsome. King. And a big grumpy bear! I love a hero whose hardened heart melts for the right woman. And the gentle love story between Arabella and Rowan made me smile again and again. I enjoyed Rowan’s journey even if I got frustrated by his temper a time or two.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It didn’t take long for me to become fully engrossed in Arabella and Rowan’s tale. I couldn’t stop reading, turning page after page late into the night!
Any fan of Christian fiction would enjoy this story!
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.… (more)