An excellent book in spite of being in the romance category. Usually romance novels follow a strict and simple pattern but this one doesn’t. Not much at least. Through two timelines that are very nicely and tightly told the story unfolds. There is no slack. The principal character Valentine appears feeble at first but becomes a true heroine by the end. A strong character and a strong plot makes the book enjoyable. Ants on Peonies is not short but time did fly while I read it.