The Royal Pain

October 1, 2005
Following " The Royal Treatment" (2004), " The Royal Pain" brings readers to Davidson's fantasy Alaska, now a sovereign nation ruled by an atypical king, Alexander Baranov II, who works word puzzles and says things like "tough titty." Princess Alex, sleep deprived thanks to nightmares, is sent to inspect the North Dakota Institute for Sea Life. There she meets Dr. Shel Rivers, who hates rich people with a passion. While Alex's overly meticulous assistant, Jenny, loosens up and goes bowling with a handsome fishing guide, Alex and Shel discover blissful--if quirky--love. Once again, Davidson delivers off-the-wall entertainment. (Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2005, American Library Association.)