This book was not for me. While I found the premise of the book fun, basically Legally Blonde in a fantasy setting, this book didn’t feel fully put together. The princess’s personality is inconsistent and her motivations are hard to believe. I personally also found it difficult to believe that someone without even basic training would do well at an elite combat academy. In Legally Blonde, Elle is underestimated, but proves her intelligence very early on by doing well on an exam. There is no such parallel here as Clia just gets into the school by being royal. I was really excited for this book and am just a bit disappointed in it.

This was sooooo fun! I really enjoyed this first book in a series that shows a lot of potential. I enjoyed the characters, their personalities, backstories, and struggles, the author truly built a cast that was unique and very human, while also completely straying away from stereotypes and cliches. No girl on girl hate in this one, that’s for sure. The romance was quite cute, again, far away from your trope-y enemies-to-lovers classic romantasy couple, just good vibes and yearning. I did wish we’d gotten MORE yearning and waited until book 2 for things to get more concrete between our two main characters, but it still took this time, and it felt overall still pretty satisfying and well-paced. The world building showed some interesting premises, I just wished we’d explored even more the continent’s history, and especially the past conflicts that shaped it to get a better understanding of the stakes and the political landscape of the story.
I also found that a lot of the plot-twists were VERY predictable, to the point that I had guessed them all by the 30% mark.
I absolutely recommend you pick this book up once it comes out in September, very fun, but also refreshing in many ways! 4.25⭐️

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for approving me to read this book, it’s absolutely a 5 star read.

This book reminded me why I read and why fantasy remains elite.

What a story, we begin with a princess looking to begin her future in an arranged marriage living up to her duties, but the prince rejects her and this leads her to the academy to become a warrior to win him back in a sense. Now at first I really thought the FMC might annoy me, but I underestimated her as much as the characters did as well. The FMC won me over every chapter, she showed courage, feminine rage and so much loyalty that it really would be hard to dislike her. I enjoyed seeing her growth as the book went on. The MMC is great too, I loved the elements he bought to the story and the connection he builds with our FMC.

This story has battles, trials and challenges with fierce characters, romance and betrayals that threaten everyone. I can’t believe how attached I became to the characters, I cried and laughed at points, I’m so gutted I’ve finished this book and I’m praying for a book 2 immediately,

I wanted to love this book soooo much. It’s being marketed as a new adult Legally Blonde retelling, and I was ready for a medieval romantasy spin on the humor, characters, and general that we adore so much from LB.

But it wasn’t there. The iconic humor that makes LB LB was missing. You could track the plot and check the boxes of what runs parallel between The Princess Knight and LB, and that felt a bit forced. The most jarring thing though was that the book’s language read as YA instead of NA. That made reading a challenge for me as I have to be in a particular mood to read YA these days.

I think the diversity representation was wonderful, the world building was meaningful, and of course, who doesn’t love a fun furry sidekick? Unfortunately those were the only parts I liked.

The marketing for this book was a bit of a letdown as this could have been a great book for younger readers without the LB connection — they could at least go into it without any expectations and still appreciate a good story of a princess finding and championing her worth.

The author is a lovely storyteller hence my 3 stars, and the intention was thoughtful. “The Princess Knight” just wasn’t for me.

// Thanks to HarperCollins and NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review! //

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0 Stars

Legally Blonde inspired story in medieval times and Irish folklore y'all don't have to tell me twice. Of course I added this book to my TBR immediately.

Just like El Woods, our main girl Princess Clía is strong headed, gleefully optimistic and a fashion girly 💅🏼 who is expecting to be betrothed to Prince Domhnall. When this doesn't go to plan because Domhnall doesn't see her as the future queen his kingdom needs, she decides to follow him and enlist in Caisleán Cósta, a brutal military academy to prove him wrong and win his heart back. 👀

The Princess Knight was such a fun and lighthearted read. Highly recommended if you need a break from epic fantasy or just something that will help you get out of a reading slump!

👸🏼Legally Blonde inspired
🗡️ Irish folklore
👸🏼 Lady Knights!!!
🗡️ Minimal spice

Thank you Cait Jacobs, and NetGalley for a digital ARC of The Princess Knight.

Thankyou NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review!

I was genuinely excited to start reading book this second I got it in my inbox, but I ended up feeling a bit disappointed with how the story progressed. I still think the concept is extremely interesting, but I just feel like the story would've been way more impactful if the main characters' personalities had been a bit more fleshed out and if there a more clear overarching plot that had me more interested in what was happening. As it turns out, I just got a bunch of sparring scenes, some mild missions that were not really all the fun, and a lukewarm romance.

Maybe I simply wasn't in the mood for the book because I do believe a lot of people will love this story, but I guess it wasn't for me.

This book was such a lovely surprise. Clía is one of the most relatable characters I’ve read in a long time - her struggles with social stuff, masking, sensory sensitivities, and her special interest in fashion/sewing all hit really close to home. Maybe I’m projecting a bit, but she felt a little autistic-coded to me, and as an autistic woman, it was great to see that kind of representation.

I really liked Ronan as a character too. His experience with chronic pain was written so well - making it feel realistic without being overly dramatic. I loved how the story didn’t glorify pushing through pain just to be “tough.” It focused more on the quiet strength it takes to live with it every day. Plus, the way he trains and supports Clía with so much patience and kindness? Ugh. My heart. Their relationship was so gentle and respectful. There’s definitely chemistry, but it’s softer, grounded in mutual trust, and it was very precious.

The side characters were also a highlight, with their little training group slowly (and somewhat unwillingly in Niamh's case!) becoming a really sweet little found family. I also really appreciated how casually and naturally queer characters were included - it wasn’t a big deal, it just was, and it felt right. That kind of normalization brings me so much joy.

Lastly, the Irish folklore woven throughout the story was so interesting. I had so much fun looking up name pronunciations and art of the different creatures mentioned - I ended up down a few very enjoyable rabbit holes! That, combined with Cait Jacob's beautiful yet accessible writing style, gave the book a really immersive atmosphere.

Thank you to the author and publisher for this e-ARC via NetGalley! This has not influenced the review and all views are my own.

What an incredible book. This gives vibes of Lord of the Rings meets Game of Thrones, but Irish!
The character development of the FMC is my favourite thing about the book. She starts off as a spoiled, entitled princess, and by the end she’s an outspoken, brave warrior. You can really see the personal changes she goes through within the book and it humanises her and makes her feel genuine. I found myself relating to a lot of her qualities.

There’s no spice in this book, but I really feel like that enhanced the book. The slow burn and longing is more effective, and I think it’s so important how the author portrays unconditional love, and being able to accept love.

There were a few plot twists that I wasn’t expecting which made the book really fun to read. The friends of the FMC are also so unique and I really appreciate the presentation of different communities. No character is the same and there aren’t too many so you don’t feel overwhelmed by it all.

The world building was great, particularly with the descriptions of the weapons. It helped me to visualise everything that was going on. The plot was also consistent throughout and it was easy to read!

A great book if you love redemption, love, and war!

Rating 4/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

While this is an adaptation of Legally Blonde, it's also an adventure fantasy that shines on its own - I was quickly hooked and couldn't put the book down!

Clía has been following a set path her whole life: be a perfect princess and marry the prince for political ties. However, when her betrothal plans fall apart without warning, she hatches a plan to win back her man. What she doesn't expect is just how grueling and dangerous her decision will prove to be...

I like how The Princess Knight plays with the story of Elle Woods. Instead of a dog she has an otter-like monster that when grown could eat her enemies. Rather than law school, she ends up at a prestigious knight academy. Swap out the manicurist BFF pining for the UPS guy with a seamstress with the hots for a nobel. A lot of the familiar beats are here, but while many retellings are predictable because they follow the original so closely, this book has you second guessing who is an enemy and who can be trusted. You can't map everything perfectly which leaves the major scenes unpredictable - the blend of familiar and fresh works really well!

While things begin lighthearted, the threat of invasion and war slowly lead to darker moments. Not everyone makes it through unscathed, and I was in tears at one point as one scene was so gut-wrenching.

I loved how the mythology of the world starts to play a larger role as the action continues. There are objects of the gods rumored to be hidden in their world, and they could influence the battles to come. There is so much potential to turn this into a duo duology or trilogy, and that would be amazing.

I also really like how anxiety and sensory issues are portrayed in the book. Clía is constantly forced to mask, and I appreciated how her struggles were addressed and how she begins to find confidence to be herself and prioritize her own comfort. It's not something she instantly overcomes and I respected the realism of that. The same goes for Ronan and his chronic pain.

I expected this to be a silly romcom, but it was more than that. It's cute, but also emotive. Definitely would recommend.

Formally titled Medievally Blonde, the princess knight is a Legally Blonde retelling but with a lot of mythological depth. As soon as I saw this, I knew I wanted to read it.

It was quite true to the source material and I loved the relationships and how they were built. I loved the diversity in the characters.

It read quite YA to me, I wouldnt mind my daughter reading it.
I did enjoy the book, but it didn’t set me on fire. All round, it’s a great debut novel and I think it is worth the read.

This book was a cute medieval retelling of Legally Blonde, and it was a fun read!

Clía is a royal who refuses to stay in her lane and decides to charge into a military academy (male dominated) to win back the prince who broke her heart, and it’s honestly a blast watching her do it. She’s witty, determined, and chaotic; and her journey throughout the book was very fun to read.

A few moments were a little predictable, and the pacing dipped once or twice, but overall it was a fast, light read that didn’t take itself too seriously while still hitting the mark.

I really enjoyed this book—it was charming, uplifting, and a total breath of fresh air! I loved how it flips the “damsel in distress” trope into something totally empowering.

The princess here isn’t waiting around to be rescued—she slays dragons (literally) and sets out to forge her own path. She’s smart, brave, and refreshingly realistic in her self-doubt. Her journey, dealing with expectations and discovering her own strengths, felt super relatable and heartfelt.

What really stood out was the balancing act between action and character growth. The adventure scenes were fun and lively, but it never lost that personal, emotional core. I also loved that the romance wasn’t rushed—it unfolded naturally and added a sweet layer without taking over the story.

It’s the kind of fantasy that feels good without being cheesy, and it left me smiling. If you’re in the mood for something uplifting, fun, and full of girl-power vibes, this is a great pick!

Thanks so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this one early

I kept seeing this book on social media and was completely drawn to it by the cover.
The story itself did not disappoint. I loved everything about this!
Can't wait to get a beautiful final copy!

3.75 stars

I received an ARC of The Princess Knight and overall, it was a very enjoyable read. Cait Jacobs crafted a fun, lighthearted, yet engaging story about a determined princess who’s not afraid to challenge tradition for her own happiness.
Clía is a charismatic heroine, and her growth—from heartbreak to becoming a true warrior—feels natural and inspiring. Her relationship with Ronan is the strongest part of the book: their slow-burn romance filled with banter and tenderness is believable and captivating. Ronan serves as a great foil to Clía, with his inner doubts and sense of responsibility.
While the beginning is a bit slow at times and some side characters and world-building could use more development, the military academy and competitive atmosphere add energy and excitement to the story.
Overall, The Princess Knight is a light, somewhat classic but very enjoyable fantasy romance with a great heroine, perfect for fans of training academies and romance set against the backdrop of war. I look forward to Cait Jacobs’ next book!

3,5*

Thank you HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for providing me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review. My review is my own and not influenced by others.

When you’re looking for a book that has a lot of similarities with Legally Blond, with characters who are disabled in a queernormative fantasy world, you’re at the right place!

Female main character Clia decides to win back the prince who broke her heart and follows him to his kingdom’s prestigious military academy while having no experience with training and fighting. While she’s there, she not only saves the realm, falls in love with a great character, but also starts proving not only to others, but herself as well what she is capable of.

If you loved Legally Blonde as much as I did, you’re going to enjoy reading this book.

Such a sweet and funny reimagining of a classic girl power story!
The plot does follow a different path so Cait made it completely her own.
I was thrilled with the animal sidekick trope and loved the friendship and found family too.
Fans of fantasy rom-com will eat this up. It was such a joy to read and absolutely cured my reading slump! I can’t wait to see what she writes next.

Holy. Moly.
This book is easily one of my favorite reads of the year.

We follow Clía, a princess raised to do one thing: marry well and serve her kingdom through political alliance. She’s prepared, elegant, ready to fulfill that role... until her engagement is broken off. Not for scandal. Not for betrayal. But because she's "not strong enough" — not a warrior. And that’s the moment that kicks everything off.

Instead of retreating into embarrassment, Clía picks herself up and marches straight into a warrior training school — the same one her ex-fiancé attends — determined to prove her worth. But what starts as a quest for validation turns into something so much more: a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and truly finding her own place and voice outside of what others expect of her.

Clía’s growth is one of the best character arcs I’ve read in a while. She starts off soft and polished, yes, but never spoiled in the way you'd expect. She listens. She learns. She pushes herself, and when things break her down — emotionally and physically — she comes back stronger, not in the “sword-wielding badass” way (although yes, she learns to fight), but in a grounded, internal strength sort of way that’s so much more satisfying.

And the cast of characters? Perfection. I loved every single one of them. The group of trainees at the school felt like a real, lived-in crew. Each one has a clear voice, a struggle of their own, and actual growth. I was especially impressed by how even the ex-fiance I thought might fall into the "first love interest turned villain" trope had his own depth and storyline. And don’t even get me started on the found family vibes — SO GOOD. It gave me those warm, messy, complicated-but-loving dynamics I always crave in a character-driven book.

What I really appreciated is how much this story is about young people trying to find their way — not just in life, but within the heavy expectations of their kingdom, their families, even themselves. There's political intrigue, manipulation, and moments where they’re forced to stand up to authority and prove their worth beyond title or training. And it’s done so, so well.

Also, I have to highlight one of my favorite quotes from Sárait:
“Being overlooked often allows you to be observant. You get to see what everyone else misses.”
This line hit me like a freight train in the best way. I related to it so deeply — that quiet awareness, the insight that comes from standing on the sidelines. Sárait is a gentle, observant character I completely adored and related to.

The romance? Delicious. A perfect strangers-to-friends-to-lovers slow burn. Clía and Ronan were so wonderfully balanced. There’s mutual respect, steady trust-building, and emotional support woven so naturally into their relationship. Clía and Ronan don’t fall for each other because of proximity or dramatics — they see one another. They hold space for each other’s flaws, dreams, and heartbreaks. It’s mature and patient and meaningful.

And okay, yes, there is one intimate scene — it’s fade-to-black/open-door and truly not the focus. THANK YOU, Cait Jacobs, for writing a New Adult fantasy that centers more on self-worth, growth, and ambition than on spice. I can’t say that enough.

And lastly, the ending wraps up the first arc in such a satisfying way while setting up for a sequel. These characters have come so far — they’ve earned every change, every lesson, and I am not ready to say goodbye to them.
I bonded with them over every training scene, every political clash, every heartbreak and hard-earned victory. It’s not a story about perfection — it’s about progress, and I adored that.


Final Thoughts:

The Princess Knight is a powerful fantasy story about stepping outside the role the world hands you, building your own identity, and choosing what kind of person you want to be — all wrapped in rich character development, found family, training montages, quiet observations, and slow-burn tension that absolutely delivers.
It’s an absolute must-read for fans of character-driven fantasy with heart.
Pick it up, you won't regret it.

Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC!

I think this was a case of cool concept, didn't connect with the writing style or character voices.

It's a fun, easy-reading world with fairly predictable characters and world building, but I wanted to feel more for the cast, and root for the couple more.

3.75⭐️ Thank you so much to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book!

This was a fun read, and exactly what I expected from a book described as a medieval fantasy retelling of Legally Blonde.

Rooted in Celtic folklore, The Princess Knight (Medievally Blonde you will always be famous to me) was a politically driven, yet still cutesy story about Princess Clía who follows her former friend and betrothed to a military academy to prove she’s more than just an heir to a kingdom and convince him to take back his rejected proposal.

Overall this was a solid read, with diverse characters, queer rep, chronic pain rep and great character development. I think in the first half of the book this leant a little too far into the Legally Blonde aspect which impacted my rating, but once it found its own footing, I enjoyed it so much more.

I wasn't aware of the references to being a medieval legally blonde before I began reading, but I understand where people are coming from now. My favourite aspect is the use of Celtic names and language interwoven throughout as it felt so refreshing to read.
The writing style perhaps felt a bit too choppy for me, with lots of small sharp pages thar were broken up into specific scenes. It felt like I was reading a screenplay instead of a novel, which may suit others better than it did me. Overall, this didn't capture me as well as I had hoped.