Book Review: J. B. Cheaney's The True Prince

by Abby

Cheaney’s novel is set in London amidst a group of actors. Richard, who narrates the story, has a grudge against Kit who is said to be the finest boy player in London. Kit gets all of the major parts in plays therefore making Richard jealous. Although Richard makes several attempts at friendship, Kit’s attitude is not helpful. When Kit begins keeping the wrong company Richard harbors suspicions that Kit’s new friends are linked to a series of crimes that jeopardize the theater’s good name. Kit is accused of murdering one of his fellow players, and Richard realizes that Kit’s life is endangered. He reluctantly ventures to the edge of the law to help his rival – this infuriating prince of a boy who teeters on the brink of becoming a king … or a criminal.

The True Prince is a good book that begins somewhat slowly but picks up speed toward the middle. The plot is excellently woven throughout the book and a few twists are thrown in to keep your interest. The book is written in mostly modern English but enough Shakespearean text is mixed in to draw you into the time period. Cheaney’s characters are very well developed. Their personalities and attitudes are so realistic that you almost forget for a minute that you’re reading a book and not witnessing it firsthand. The loose ends of the plot are tied up well making for a satisfying ending.

I personally look for a book that is written so well that you forget that you’re not actually there. This book came close but is not by any means one of my favorite books. Overall though, the book was very good and I thoroughly enjoyed it. J. B. Cheaney has proven herself as a writer and I would probably read more of her works.