Butterfly Games
A Novel
by Kelly Scarborough
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Pub Date Jan 20 2026 | Archive Date Feb 10 2026
Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles | She Writes Press
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Description
In some games, winning means losing everything that matters.
In the opulent world of the Swedish royal court, Jacquette Gyldenstolpe walks a dangerous tightrope between romance and political intrigue. Neglected by her parents and ostracized by the people around her, the young countess falls in love with Prince Oscar, heir to the Swedish throne—but their passionate affair has far-reaching consequences for the new Bernadotte dynasty, which is already challenged by threats from inside Sweden and beyond.
By the time Jacquette learns that the Butterfly Game is not for the faint-hearted, it is too late. For she has a secret—one as precious to her as it is potentially devastating to the crown—and she will stop at nothing to protect it.
Based on a true story and set in stormy early-1800s Europe, Butterfly Games is a sweeping historical tale of forbidden love, fierce duty, and the cost of ambition. From the lavish ballrooms of Stockholm to the elegant manor houses of the Swedish countryside, Jacquette’s story will transport readers to a world where every whisper could lead to triumph or ruin.
A Note From the Publisher
Audiobook: 9798998690907
eBook: 9798896360513
Audiobook: 9798998690907
Advance Praise
“In Butterfly Games, Kelly Scarborough crafts a work of historical fiction that feels as lavish as it is perilous. The book leans into the elegance of Bridgerton, the stately tension of The Crown, and the shadowy power plays that recall Game of Thrones. . . . Scarborough possesses a gift; she draws readers into this world with deceptive ease.”
—Literary Titan, 5-star review
“With near-cinematic historical detail and enough drama to push the story forward, Scarborough's debut marches her straight up to the top of the genre. Very highly recommended.”
—Readers’ Favorite, 5-star review
“The writing is realistic, the tension in many scenes is heart-stopping, and Oscar’s intentions in his love for Jacquette are uncertain. I loved learning about this period of Swedish events, not often mentioned in history books.”
—Readers’ Favorite, 5-star review
"An excellent work of historical fiction that delivers an engaging romance and memorable characters.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“This opulent tale of early-1800s Swedish palace intrigue is richly detailed, meticulously researched, and bursting with all the good stuff—gossip, scandal, spies, and, of course, forbidden romance. Based on the life of lady-in-waiting and royal mistress Jacquette Gyldenstolpe, Butterfly Games will transport you to the gilded hallways of Napoleonic Stockholm, where secrets are worth more than gold.”
—Emily Matchar, author of In the Shadow of the Greenbrier
“Complex, captivating characters. Immersive prose. Glittery royal court intrigue. Based on the true ill-fated love story between a countess and a prince, Butterfly Games unfolds with all the dramatic intensity of a Shakespearean tragedy.”—Joan Fernandez, author of Saving Vincent: A Novel of Jo van Gogh
“Lyrical and passionate, this historical novel illumines a little-known countess with a big story. Drawn into a treacherous game of politics, betrayal, and forbidden love, young Jacquette must choose between her heart and her loyalty. A tale that reels you in and doesn’t let you go.”
—Jude Berman, author of The Vow, a 2024 Kirkus Best Indie Book
“Set against the turbulent backdrop of Napoleonic-era Sweden, this richly woven tale follows Countess Jacquette Gyldenstolpe through passion, political intrigue, and heartbreak. Blending deep historical insight with irresistible drama, this is a romance that lingers long after the final page.”
—Anna-Lena Berg, noted biographer of Jacquette Gyldenstolpe (Jacquette Gyldenstolpe) and Gustav af Wetterstedt (Grand Tour)
Marketing Plan
Butterfly Games National Marketing & Publicity Plans:
• National media campaign including television, print, radio, podcast, and online coverage
• Local author events and book festivals
• Major digital advertising campaign
• ARC distribution campaign
• Digital review copy campaign
• Trade marketing outreach to booksellers and librarians
• Review campaign
• Social media influencer campaign
• Goodreads giveaways to seed consumer reviews
Available Editions
| EDITION | Paperback |
| ISBN | 9798896360506 |
| PRICE | $18.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 352 |
Available on NetGalley
Average rating from 49 members
Featured Reviews
Kayla R, Reviewer
I simply could not put this novel down. The author plucked a year out of Jacquette's life and gave us this story that felt like we lived an entire lifetime with her. The book gives Bridgerton vibes but also gifts us with Tudor-esque royal drama and historically accurate tid bits that really add to the allure of this book.
I found myself just as confused as our FMC when it came to Oscar and how I felt about it. One moment I felt I hated him and the next I was making excuses for him and nothing makes me more joyous when reading than feeling as though the author has pulled me into the story in that capacity.
In the end, this book is a reminder that while in the 1800s (and really - today) men may have had the titles and the glory, but it is the decision and actions of the women around them that truly impacted history.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book early. It was truly a gift.
Nikki M, Librarian
Butterfly Games is beautifully written—every page pulled me deeper into the story. Kelly Scarborough’s prose is both sharp and lyrical, making the world and characters feel incredibly vivid. It’s emotional, layered, and captivating from start to finish. An absolute standout that I’ll be recommending often.
Tracy S, Reviewer
Butterfly Games by Kelly Scarborough is a captivating blend of history and imagination, weaving together fact and fiction in a way that kept me turning the pages. Scarborough brings to life the story of Jacquette Gyldenstolpe, the real-life mistress of Prince Oscar, heir to the Swedish throne, and fills in the unknown details with a compelling narrative that feels both authentic and romantic. Known as “Q” to Prince Oscar, Jacquette lives on the margins of the royal court with her mother and stepfather, always navigating the weight of protocol while holding onto her forbidden love for the prince she grew up alongside. The mix of historical truth and creative storytelling made this book difficult to put down, and by the final page, I was left wanting more.
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