By Imperial Decree

This was an enjoyable read. This is the third book I've read in the ESTO Universe, and as far as I can tell, they all stand alone. This book is much lighter in tone and subject matter than the other two I've read so far (Prisoner 374215 and Vassily the Beautiful). Nothing too terrible happens in By Imperial Decree. There's some violence, and stalking, but it's really very mild. It's overall a very fluffy read, with a lot of blushing, hand-holding, general cuteness, and a low-conflict romance.

I'm rounding up from 3.5 stars because I really loved both the main characters, but I felt there were a few missed opportunities. I knew this was a fake relationship book, but I didn't know it also had the "You've Got Mail" trope, in which characters aren't aware that they already know each other when they meet in person. I love this trope! I think it could've been explored a bit more here, though. We never actually see the messages they exchanged in the book club.

I look forward to reading more books in this setting soon.