Drawing the Prince

August 26, 2019
Fielding (Redesigning Landry Bishop) chronicles the magical present-day romance between handsome Prince Teofilo Vabriga-Kastav of the fictional Porvunia and dashing artist Cal Walters of Peril, Nebr. The men meet on a blind date that ends with a kiss. Prince Teo further woos Cal by inviting him to participate in a juried art competition in Porvunia. Cal, who doubts his own talent, reluctantly agrees, as he’s falling in love with Teo, who dances with him at midnight and takes him for romantic walks. Their fairy tale affair hits a speed bump, however, when Cal is called back to Nebraska. When Teo comes for a surprise visit, Cal is pleased and paints a nude portrait of his lover. But though Teo hopes Cal will move to Porvunia, Cal stubbornly refuses to leave Peril. The city mouse/country mouse story is sweet, but the obstacle to happiness is flimsy. Otherwise, this is an enchanting royal affair.