Review - The Faerie Ring (The Faerie Ring #1) by Kiki Hamilton

Title: The Faerie Ring

Author: Kiki Hamilton

Series: 1st

Pages: 352

Published: September 27, 2011 by TorTeen

ISBN: 9780765327222

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: The year is 1871, and Tiki has been making a home for herself and her family of orphans in a deserted hideaway adjoining Charing Cross Station in central London. Their only means of survival is by picking pockets. One December night, Tiki steals a ring, and sets off a chain of events that could lead to all-out war with the Fey. For the ring belongs to Queen Victoria, and it binds the rulers of England and the realm of Faerie to peace. With the ring missing, a rebel group of faeries hopes to break the treaty with dark magic and blood—Tiki’s blood.  Unbeknownst to Tiki, she is being watched—and protected—by Rieker, a fellow thief who suspects she is involved in the disappearance of the ring. Rieker has secrets of his own, and Tiki is not all that she appears to be. Her very existence haunts Prince Leopold, the Queen’s son, who is driven to know more about the mysterious mark that encircles her wrist.  Prince, pauper, and thief—all must work together to secure the treaty…  

I Give This ...

 

There were lots of things that drew me to this novel.  I've found that I enjoy a number of books that involve fairies, so this was sounded good on that fact alone.  But, I'm also drawn to books set in historic England (Tudor usually but also enjoy regency).  So this book became a must read for me.

I really enjoyed Tiki's character.  I liked the background of coming from money, but willing to live on the streets instead of waiting for the other shoe to drop by living with family.  I think it shows strength of character.  Especially when she makes it her mission to help other on the street.  She may not be able to provide them with the same opportunities she once had, but she's going to give them the best life possible.

I was intrigued by the rest of the cast of character.  Rieker is an interesting sort, especially when we learn of the double roll he plays.  I really did not see that one coming.  It makes him that much more endearing.  Turns it out, he has a lot in common with Tiki and it make his devotion to her that much more sweet.  I love Prince Leo in this story.  I was kind of hoping he would be the love interest, but happy with the roll he plays in the story.  I also like the little family of orphans that Tiki takes care of.  They are there for each other no matter what.

I really liked the story line.  The ring has been part of the royal family for centuries and its ties to the faerie realm are interesting.  I do feel like the story has just barely touched on this element though.  It seems most of the story takes place in the real world, with just a glimpse of the other.  I'm hoping the next book in the series really gets into the folklore behind the ring and what Tiki really is.

If your looking for a combination of paranormal mixed with historical fiction, this is it.  I really enjoyed this one and look forward to the next installment!