A Tenuous Betrothal by Jen Geigle Johnson {Book Review + Giveaway}

 A Tenuous Betrothal by Jen Geigle Johnson

Rhianna Davies is well-acquainted with heartache after the painful loss of her parents. At the arrival of her ghastly uncle, she is brought even lower: Rhi has been banished from her family’s estate home and must rely on the kindness of her tightly knit Welsh miners for help. Without the protective love of her parents, Rhi has no illusions that hers will be a happy ending—until an addendum to her father’s will arrives in the hands of a prince.

Marc Wilhelm, Prince of Oldenburg, is in Wales with one purpose: to claim his betrothed. A long-ago promise between their fathers forges an indelible link between Rhi and Marc, but there remains just one problem: neither wants to marry a stranger. With no remaining ties to Wales, Rhi agrees to accompany Marc to Oldenburg, where he will forfeit their betrothal so she may have her pick of husbands. But their journey takes them down unexpected paths, from the depths of a Welsh mine to the marriage mart of London to a warm reception in Oldenburg. Rhi and Marc discover that their connection and their challenges run deeper than either anticipated, but whether from their own hesitations or from danger that threatens without, the couple might be thwarted before they can even begin the happily ever after they so richly deserve.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

  AMAZON

My Review: 5 Stars

Oh, how I love a good arranged marriage and when a royal is thrown in, I'm all over it. Prince Marc and Rhianna seem to hit it off immediately, despite their trepidations, but he just can't commit. I devoured every single interaction between these two and wanted to shake some sense into the prince.

Rhianna is a very likable character and I could feel her eagerness and anticipation of her new situation, as well as her dedication and loyalty to what she's leaving behind. The slight Cinderella vibe with some twists and turns pierced my heart and kept me turning the pages.

Then we have the handsome, sweet, and utterly adorable prince. Marc is an overly devoted man, almost thinking of others too much and overthinking possible scenarios that may or may not happen, but his humor and connection to Rhi is what dreams are made of. This was everything I hoped it would be and more.

I loved the setting and the slew of princes had my heart melting. There are some amazing stories in store for each of them and I'm here for them. Johnson does a phenomenal job of creating a story worth reading and dreaming of.

Content: mild romance

*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*

Royal Secrets by Cami Checketts {Review}

Royal Secrets by Cami Checketts

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

A smart marketing executive; a prince who’s trying to save his kingdom. When they fall in love will his people tear them apart? Julia Adams comes to the picturesque island of Magna to help Prince Bodi market his medieval reenactment tournaments and fairs. Little does she know there are secrets and dangers in the kingdom that will keep her from loving Bodi and may even keep her from escaping with her life. 

 

AMAZON  ***  GOODREADS 

 

 

My Review: 4 Stars

Not many can write a romantic suspense the way that this author can. Not only am I sucker for a good romance, but when a royal thread is added, I'm done for. This forbidden romance was a great reading escape. 

I loved Julia and her innovative ideas for this hidden kingdom to gain some regulated tourism. I loved Bodi and his strong, confident personality. The way they first met was adorable and set the tone to a fast-paced, swoony romance. That said, I know some people fall in love really fast, but this was...really fast, especially with the obstacles and dangers they had to face.

I loved the characters and the setting was breathtaking--yes, I could picture it in my mind. I loved the conflict and the loyalty, as frustrating as it was at times. This was a beautiful love story and the beginning of what is sure to be a good series.

Content: mild+ romance; mild violence/peril/danger; very mild religion

Protecting the Princess by Lucinda Whitney {Review}

 Protecting the Princess by Lucinda Whitney

280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given. 

 

 

She's a princess doubting the rules of royalty. He's the bodyguard tasked with keeping her in line. Will a relationship destroy both of their goals?


Princess Emma Somerset struggles to find purpose and fulfillment in her life. With her brother and cousins all married and in their new roles, she’s the only one left at the palace. When Queen Nicolette, her aunt, asks Emma to undertake a trip to the north as a good-will ambassador, she agrees, despite her lack of experience.

Ryan Sterling is a new protection officer for the royal house of Durham. He has aspirations for a high-profile assignment, but when Princess Emma’s long-time female bodyguard is injured a week before departure, he’s called to replace her. Now he’s stuck babysitting a spoiled princess instead of proving his worth to advance his career.

After floods strand Emma and Ryan in the remote countryside during the trip, their fledgling friendship slowly turns into something more. But is a new relationship between them doomed to fail when they return to the palace?  

   

My Review: 4 Stars

I've always had a fascination with all things royal and it was fun to get a small taste of the royal life with this story. Although most of it takes place outside the palace walls and the princess is very down-to-earth, the elegance that surrounds Emma, and her awesome new bodyguard, Ryan, was delightful. 

This book reminded me of Roman Holiday with Audrey Hepburn. Emma is always trying to escape her protection, much to Ryan's amusement, until the day there is nowhere to escape to. That's when the fun begins with a tentative friendship and a fake relationship.

Ryan is a very uptight character and it was a joy to watch him soften through events out of his control. I loved Emma's carefree and spirited ways and I liked seeing her mellow just a bit and I especially loved her desire to be normal, to help others, and to work hard, not fearing a little dirt on her hands.

Whitney does a good job of incorporating both the fun and the real aspects of being royal and delivers a charmingly sweet romance.

Content: mild romance

The Promised Prince by Kortney Keisel {Review}

The Promised Prince by Kortney Keisel

Kindle Edition, 410 pages

Published January 12th 2021 by Amazon Digital Services 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

 

 

He's promised to another. She's promised to forget him.
Eighteen-year-old Renna Degray is hopeful about love and her future after a chance encounter with a handsome stranger. Until she discovers who the mysterious man is—the Prince of Albion, betrothed to Renna’s stepsister. Now Renna must try to keep her feelings for the prince in check. But he's not making it easy. The prince is charming, funny, and impossible not to fall for.

Trev has no room for mistakes. He must marry the princess of New Hope and secure the marriage alliance along with his future as king. The safety of his kingdom depends on it. Duty and honor never bothered Trev before, but love has a way of changing everything.

In this post-Desolation world, the Council of Essentials controls everything, including the prince. Is love more than a negotiation?

Is love essential?

 

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Labeled as a YA Dystopian, there were glimpses of a dystopian life--it's set in a future time, there are some throwbacks to the society in the manner of clothing and ways of life, and an obvious desolation has occurred, but if you're looking for something like The Hunger Games, you won't find it here. That said, I absolutely loved it! I'm a huge fan of royalty and loved the role the crown played in this intriguing, adventurous, romantic, humorous tale.

Trev and Renna had the cutest meet-cute and the wit and banter only escalated from there. Trev is one of the most dashing, charming, and likable protagonists ever, especially as he strives to fulfill duty and making sacrifices to do what's best for his country. Renna is not only sweet and amiable, but she's somewhat of an enigma for her times, daring to test boundaries and rules. I. Loved. Them!

 

I loved the conspiracy element and the danger helped propel the plot at a thrilling pace, but be still my racing heart! It was the romance that clutched me and caught my full attention. I devoured these pages and couldn't believe this was a debut novel. The supporting cast of characters were superb as well, which always makes for a great story. Please tell me there's more to this world because I just couldn't get enough of this world and the characters inhabiting it!

Content: mild+ violence; mild+ romance

Enchantment by Camille Peters {Review}

Enchantment by Camille Peters

Kindle Edition, 376 pages

Published June 11th 2020 by Rosewood Publications 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

    

 

When Maren runs away from the threat of a forced marriage, the last place she expects to end up is the Malvagarian Palace, home to the enchanted gardens, a cursed prince, and a magical rose that traps her there. Crown Prince Briar isn’t pleased to be stuck with a troublesome guest, especially one as mischievous and curious as Maren. She, on the other hand, is determined to escape, but instead finds herself inconveniently falling in love with him. Despite her lack of beauty, feelings steadily blossom between her and the prince.

Their budding romance is soon threatened when sinister magic begins to eclipse the enchanted gardens, a darkness which quickly spreads not only to the kingdom, but to the king himself. In order to stop it, Briar and Maren will both be forced to make a heart-wrenching sacrifice, only to realize that the gardens’ requirements may prove too high a price.

Inspired by Beauty and the Beast

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

I have to start by saying that this series has some of the most beautiful covers I've ever seen and the story found beneath this beauty was delightful.

 

Beauty and the Beast is one of my most favorite fairy tales and Peters does a phenomenal job of translating this tale into something fresh, making her own mark in the retelling world. The way she builds this world into something tangible is amazing and incorporating plants and nature is ingenious.

 

I'm a sucker for a crown prince and Briar was an intriguing character. I loved the way he interacted with Maren, how he stuck up for her, and the way they worked together to unravel mysteries, magic, and more in this winsome fairy tale romance. A book with charismatic characters is always a bonus and I really enjoyed watching the progression. Although there were few characters to start with, the ending had an influx and the climax was dazzling, making my head spin and giving me slight anxiety.

 

This book is long, so give yourself some time to get through it, but if you love fairy tales like I do, you'll enjoy it.

 

Content: mild romance; mild moments of danger/peril/adventure 

Best Friends with a Royal Billionaire by Sophia Summers {Review}

Best Friends with a Royal Billionaire by Sophia Summers

Kindle Edition, 106 pages

Published February 10th 2020 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

    

 

Being the Prince's best friend had its perks. Being his Gardener did not.

Prince Arlo just wants to date and marry Amara, but she pushes him away every time he tries. She knows what the press would say. She's already seen what his parents think about the match.

They agree to spend a month of the summer together at the annual prince's yacht party, anchored on a sand bar in the Mediterranean but everything becomes that much more complicated when a family of royals show up, with the daughter Arlo is expected to date. But everything comes to a stand still when the hurricane of the decade slams into Arlo and Amara's home country.

Will Arlo's parents finally see that Amara is the perfect queen for their country? Will Amara herself accept that fact?

Read this third book of friendship, loyalty and service as two best friends find their way into love.

Get to know more of the men in the royal prince society, the perks of the wealthy, their games as royals, and their adventures on the Mediterranean.

 

My Review: 4 Stars 

 

Mingling with a bunch of royals on a yacht with a storm brewing sounds like the perfect way for Amara to spend her summer break, especially when Prince Arlo, her best friend, extends her a personal invitation. 

 

I've always had a fascination with royals and I love reading a story about one who seems so normal. I kept picturing Harry and Meghan, although Arlo and Amara don't resemble them at all in my mind. They just seem like that type of couple--very much into volunteering and service, kind, humble, down-to-earth, and definitely in the spotlight.

I enjoyed spending time with these characters and absolutely loved the setting. There were a few unexpected twists and turns that kept me entertained, but I would have loved for the story to be longer, adding more detail to a few parts.

I haven't read the others in this series and felt that this one could stand alone. This easy, breezy romance was a delicious escape for a cold, wintry day!

Content: mild romance; mild moments of peril

Magnolia's Choice by Anna del C. Dye {Review}

Magnolia's Choice by Anna del C. Dye

Kindle Edition, 175 pages

Published March 5th 2019 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

    

 

Princess Magnolia refuses to be tied to her kingdom, Bellavista, at her father’s decree. One night, she took charge and escaped to Grayville, a neighboring kingdom. However, it’s one frightful escapade to the next until she met Robin, the knight in shining armor, and the kingdom which stole her heart years ago.*****Robin, the prince of Grayville, cannot forget the enchanting, yet distressed, girl who fell into his arms two years ago. He was disguised and exploring the city with his two best friends and she knew him not. Who is she and where did she go? Some say time makes everything better, but the hole in his heart grows ever painfully empty. Dare he dream of having her back in his arms?

 

My Review: 3 Stars

 

I love finding a sweet and gentle family-friendly tale, especially a medieval royal romance such as this one. Magnolia has questions that she wants answered and wants to experience more in life than just her tiny corner of the world. She has big dreams and sets out to discover and fulfill them one night and the adventures ensue. 

 

I did wish for more showing, instead of telling, but the characters and plot were pleasant. It was also told in different points-of-view, but wasn't always clear on who was speaking (alternating chapters with heading clearing stating who's head the read was in would have been helpful). That aside and to sum it up, this is a simple and easy story that is entertaining and clean.

Content: very mild romance; very mild adventure

Saved by the Prince by Michelle Pennington {Review}

Saved by the Prince by Michelle Pennington

Kindle Edition, 182 pages

Published May 29th 2019

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

    

His life was not his own, but he would risk it to save hers.

From the moment he stepped into her world, it changed forever.

Falling for Prince Alexios had doomed Serenity to heartbreak because his duty and his future belonged to his people.

This wasn't the first time she'd been forced to gather her shattered pieces and rise again. Her name was one of the biggest in the fashion industry, and her struggles had only proven she had the courage and strength to survive.

But then Alexios dared ask her to design a wedding dress for his future princess.

Never. Not in a million years!

Except, the nightmare from her past has returned—looking for revenge—and a royal palace in a little-known country on the other side of the ocean is the perfect place to hide.

But can she hide the fact that she still loves Alexios? Especially when it's clear that his engagement is nothing more than a political arrangement, and that he still has feelings for her as well?

Between her past and his future, fate is determined to keep them apart.

My Review: 4 Stars

Prince Alexios is ready to get married and this arranged marriage is all for his family's gain. When his future bride insists on having Serenity design her gown, these two are brought back together in a flash of chemical reaction.

My only issue with the story is that I felt there should have been a whole book written about the back story between Serenity and Alex. Maybe there was and I missed it? Yes, it wouldn't have ended well, but I felt like I was missing some pieces and was literally dying to know their history in more (swoony) detail.

Otherwise, the glimpses of suspense and peril were a perfect addition to a very sweet romance. I love a story with mixed societal positions--royalty and a commoner...and from different countries, too. For me, this element makes the story very relatable and allows for the reader to dream.

These are characters who are easy to love. I loved visualizing Serenity's dress designs and loved her dedication to her craft. When faced with a crazy man from her past, she does what she has to do to survive the experience, even when it puts her in the face of the one who got away. How hard would that be? As for Alex, he's true to his heart, yet he's kind--oh, so kind. This prince is definitely a catch!

If you've ever dreamed of falling for a prince, you're sure to enjoy this one.

Content: mild, swoony romance; mild violence/peril

Rescuing the Prince by Lucinda Whitney {Review}

Rescuing the Prince by Lucinda Whitney

Kindle Edition, 123 pages

Published January 29th 2019 by Lange House Press 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

    

 

She’s devoted to helping children. He’s never had to worry about anyone but himself. Can a playboy prince and a social worker get their happily-ever-after?

When Prince Henry Somerset, the third in line to the kingdom of Durham, runs out of gas on a country road, a young woman driving an old truck stops to help him. Beneath her cold demeanor, Henry sees an intriguing woman whom he’d like to know more, but when she recognizes him, she’s quick to ask for his royal sponsorship.

Adrianne Blake is no stranger to disappointment. Now in charge of a pilot program at the community medical center, she’s in dire need of help or dozens of children depending on her will suffer. Despite Prince Henry’s playboy reputation, meeting him could mean the solution she’s been hoping for.

As Adrianne works side by side with Prince Henry to bring success to the program, she realizes there’s more to the man than her first impression. But as problems arise threatening everything she’s worked for, is their new friendship enough to allow their feelings to grow into something more?  

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I LOVE a fun, sweet story about a prince and an everyday girl. Because, hello? Don't most girls dream of becoming a princess someday? Okay...maybe that was just me...

 

Prince Harry...oops! I meant, Prince Henry and Adrianne meet in an interesting way and her first reaction to him was priceless. He's not used to girls not fawning all over him, but Henry is finally ready to grow up and take some royal responsibility and what better way to do so than working on a project that Adrianne is closely involved in?

 

I loved these two characters, especially as they battled the insane chemistry between them, worked hard on a program they're both passionate about, and fight the misconceptions surrounding them, especially Henry. They both became life-like to me, as I could vividly picture them, their setting, and their budding romance.

 

One thing that I really enjoyed was that, as much as I truly do love royals, there was more to this story than just fluff. There are tight familial bonds on both sides, as well as conflicts and issues to resolve. The love story is just the cherry on top of a great story.

 

Content: mild romance 

Heart of Red, Blood of Blue by Rebecca Belliston {Review}

Heart of Red, Blood of Blue by Rebecca Belliston

Kindle Edition, 410 pages

Published December 11th 2018 by Gated Publishing 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

    

A girl on the run. A kingdom to save.

Princess Gisela of Steinland was born without color. Albino. To add to this curse, her betrothal to Prince Jerrik of Kronga ends in his death and starts a ten-year war her father is determined to win, even if it means bringing her out of hiding to do it. Now the savage Krongon war commander, Bloodless Kristoff, seeks the hearts of the entire royal family, especially Gisela's.

Desperate, her father agrees to another alliance that involves her marrying an old brute of a king. Unwilling to be the sacrificial lamb, Gisela goes on the run. Thrown into the center of a battle between three kingdoms, she finds herself fighting for her life and the right to be truly loved.

Can the girl who started the war find a way to end it?

My Review: 5 Stars

This book is long, but it caught my attention from the start and didn't release me from it's grasp until the last word was read. I went on an epic journey, right along with Princess Gisela and the other fantastic characters from this book. Beautifully written, with both wonderfully tragic and highly satisfying events, this story will immerse a reader deep in the depths of the pages, fully engaging the imagination. I absolutely loved it!

Gisela is a multi-dimensional character that endures a lot of growth throughout this tale. I always imagine that a princess leads a charmed life, but that's not so with Gisela. I had no idea who to trust, who to love, and I felt so bad for her, as she obviously didn't know either.

There are so many different twists and turns. Just when I thought I knew what was going on, something would throw me for a loop and I'd be frantically searching for a possible solution.

I've always been partial to royalty and these kingdoms and the mysteries that enshroud the battles, murders, and alliances was so entertaining. 

If you love princesses, danger, adventure, excitement, romance, love, and hope, you'll definitely want to pick this one up!

Content: mild+ romance; moderate violence (deaths, murder, kidnapping, etc); very mild religion  

Pathways by Camille Peters {Review}

Pathways(Kingdom Chronicles #1) by Camille Peters

ebook, 312 pages

Published February 4th 2019 by Rosewood Publications 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

    

Eileen has never been interested in love. Ever since her father's abandonment, she's vowed to never experience such pain again. But the enchanted forest has different ideas. When the continuously shifting pathways lead her to a mysterious stranger, Eileen finds her promise to fiercely guard her heart increasingly difficult to keep.

One night when she becomes lost in a storm, the enchanted forest's pathways lead her to the castle, home to the kingdom's Dark Prince, where Eileen finds herself entangled in what many consider an opportunity but which Eileen believes to be a curse: competing for the Dark Prince’s hand through a series of tests that judge one’s royal worth. Eileen is neither royal nor interested in becoming a princess. But the mysterious stranger she met in the woods has his own reasons for helping her succeed, although the cost of his assistance may be too high: that of Eileen's heart, the one thing she's vowed never to give.

Inspired by “The Princess and the Pea” and "Rumpelstiltskin"  

My Review: 5 Stars

First off, this is one of the most beautiful covers that I've seen and it reflects the contents of this book perfectly. Secondly, I loved this story! Loosely based on The Princess and the Pea and Rumpelstiltskin, this charming tale captivated me from the first page.

Eileen and her love for the forest and its ever changing pathways was so intriguing, especially when she met a mysterious stranger. Can you imagine the paths changing each time you entered? Forests are so peaceful, yet there's always a looming hint of magic and menace, especially in the dark shadows. The draw to Aiden, who turns out to be the unfamiliar man, was hard for Eileen to resist and when she finds herself at a castle, competing as a "princess" to be the Dark Prince's bride, the tale takes an interesting twist in a deliberate case of mistaken identity.

I loved the competition and the way it allowed for Eileen to grow and let go of her past grievances. The way her friendship/relationship develops with Aiden is so sweet, tender, and bewildering, and their bond is undeniable. Sometimes those invisible threads of connection is all it takes for me to swoon and cheer a couple on.

This first offering by this author is stellar and I can't wait to read more of this fairy tale series.

Content: mild romance; mild violence

The Queen's Ball (A Timeless Victorian Collection) {Review}

The Queen's Ball (A Timeless Victorian Collection)
by Anthea Lawson, Rebecca Connolly, and Jennifer Moore

Kindle Edition, 223 pages

Published October 9th 2018 by Mirror Press 

Source: I received a complimentary copy

   

WALTZED by Anthea Lawson:
Eleanor Tremont never expected her father to pass away unexpectedly – leaving her with a horrible stepmother, two grasping step-sisters, and no dowry whatsoever. Relegated to a servant in her own home, she struggles to come to terms with her bleak new life. Summoned to Queen Victoria’s Stuart Ball, can Ellie find her happily-ever-after despite impossible odds? Add an absent-minded Godmother, an orange carriage, and a dancing-slipper mishap, and prepare to be swept away into this fairytale romance…

A LOVE TO CLAIM by Rebecca Connolly:
Abigail Sterling is not at all pleased to see that the man who broke her heart is in London, and even less pleased that he wants to renew their friendship. But, against her better judgment, she finds herself drawn to him, just as she always had been. Letters from a secret admirer keep her from completely giving into Matthew again, and soon her heart is torn between a familiar love and a mysterious one.

COMING HOME by Jennifer Moore:
After the sudden death of her father, Clara Brightly is sent far from her home in India to live with relatives on the Isle of Wight. The islanders are suspicious of newcomers, and none more so than a local landowner, Grant Mason who, at first meeting, considers Clara to be arrogant and disdainful of the island he loves. When the two are appointed to lead the church choir in an island-wide competition, Clara discovers that she may have a place on the island after all. Grant comes to realize that what he took as haughtiness was merely shyness, and Queen Victoria’s ball at Osborne house seems the perfect place to tell her. But when Clara is offered a chance to return to India, she must decide once and for all what “home” really means. 

My Review: 4 Stars

What a fun and adorable collection of stories! I've always been a fan of royalty and could just imagine the excitement of receiving an invitation to a ball hosted by the Queen of England herself. I enjoyed how each offering had that common event to revolve around, but had truly unique plots.

WALTZED is a Victorian Cinderella story and I loved the way that Ellie and Kit connected. They built upon a childhood friendship, while both trying to avoid some devious stepsisters. It was fun to see the fairy tale elements incorporated into this setting, giving it a sweet and hopeful flavor.

Swooning abounded in A LOVE TO CLAIM, especially as the mystery of a secret admirer and love letters captured the heart. Everyone makes mistakes and I loved the second chance idea as well, especially as beloved family members got involved. Matthew and Abigail are sure to steal your hearts!

Music and home are the general feelings of COMING HOME. This author always delivers a tale that isn't set in your typical England and the vivid descriptions of this island were great. I loved the musical theme that binds Clara and Grant together, especially as she comes to realize where her home really is.

This collection has it all when it comes to balls and was a very enjoyable read.

Content: mild, sweet romance; A LOVE TO CLAIM has mild language

Marrying a Prince by Anne-Marie Meyer {Review}

Marrying a Prince by Anne-Marie Meyer

Kindle Edition, 184 pages

Published July 23rd 201
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

   

Marianna Hedley is finally getting her life back together after she walked in on her boyfriend of three years in the arms of another woman. Now she’s pretty much sure that the emergency room where she’s a nurse and he’s a doctor is the very last place she wants to be. So when she gets wrapped up in helping out a handsome man with a head injury—at the beckoning of his mother—she reluctantly agrees. Once she’s sure this foreign stranger is safe, she leaves the ER and swears to never come back.
Prince Leonardo DeLuca is in America with one mission—propose to the woman he doesn’t love because his parents think it will be the best thing for their country. When he is out for a run and hits his head, he takes this opportunity to fake amnesia with the hopes that his parents can’t force him to marry someone he doesn’t remember. Right? Wrong. His parents don’t care and try to convince him that he will grow to love the woman he hates.
Desperate to get away, Leo “accidentally” proposes to Marianna as part of a plan they’ve concocted. She’ll get away from her ex and his parents will have to go along with the proposal because if not, then they would have to admit to the press that the soon-to-be king is not of sound mind. Everything was going according to plan, until Leo and Marianna soon discover how kind and generous the other person is and their feelings blossom from friendship to something more.

My Review: 4 Stars

I'm a royal lover at heart and love to read stories about a normal, every-day-girl finding love with a prince. Marianna is a nurse and ends up caring for Prince Leo after an accident. How could you not swoon over that?!

Leo and Marianna are fun characters, with a few flaws. I loved how they accidentally became engaged, but would have loved more banter and incidents to go along with it. Leo is contradictory at times--he's so supportive and strong where Marianna is concerned, but has a hard time standing up to his own mother. That's how life is I guess--easy to give advice, but hard to take it for yourself.

I loved the interactions that Leo and Marianna had with one another, especially in the romance department. Swoon worthy, for sure! The relationship that she has with his little sister is especially endearing.

This is one sweet, enjoyable, modern-day fairy tale that wormed its way right into my heart.

Content: mild, swoony romance

Dating the Prince by Alina Snow {Review}

Dating the Prince by Alina Snow
Published: Petal Pot and Pink Ink Press, May 8, 2018
326 pages
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were given voluntarily.

   

Small-town girl, Katie O’Connor has always dreamed of seeing her name in lights. Check the box for fame, a movie deal, the perfect leading role that comes with a gorgeous leading man! Katie moved to Hollywood, elbows her way into auditions, lives on a shoestring budget—whatever is required to land a deal, she throws her heart into… until she’s involved in a royal kidnapping.

As the future king, Prince Alexander refuses to rule from an ivory tower. Duty-bound, he intends to relate to his future subjects, regardless of their walk of life. Before his coronation, he needs a foolproof plan to outrun his security team and go temporarily AWOL. While visiting L.A., all it takes is a sound stage collision and Alex is blindsided by a headstrong woman who is simply irresistible. So much so, he calls in a favor in order to secure her help … as his pretend girlfriend.

Their worlds are oceans apart, but their immediate attraction is impossible to put aside, especially their nonstop banter. Miffed at being wrangled into a situation that might blow up in her face, Katie comes up with her own plan. If The Prince is serious about walking the walk of the common folk, she’s only too happy to oblige as his pretend girlfriend. Through an ice storm, a road trip, kitchen duty, and a Texas pig race, Alex captures the hearts of the locals as well as Ms. O’Connor’s.

What starts out as a deal Katie can’t refuse becomes the acting role of a lifetime… letting Prince Alexander go without a fight.

A delightfully funny retelling of The Prince and The Pauper that romance readers of all ages will enjoy. On a two-week 1,500-mile road trip, Katie and Alex discover the end of the road might just be the beginning of their ‘Happy Ever After’ together.

My Review: 3 Stars

I really, really wanted to love this book. The premise is right up my alley--Hollywood meets royalty--and is loosely based on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's romance. I'm all things royal, celebrity, etc and had such high expectations, but it fell a little short for me.

It seemed like just when there was a part of the story that I wanted to know more about, it would cut away, completely leaving things up to my imagination and when there were times when I wanted to skim, it would go on and on in detail. The points-of-view also jumped a lot and I was often confused about whose head I was in for a minute. 

The setting was...interesting. It started out in California with Katie struggling to make it as an actress and then took a crazy twist to Texas after she met Alex. And finally, we are thrown over the pond, to England. I felt like it was just too much for one book and the depth was compromised because of it. It might have been better off being split into 2-3 books.

The characters are fun and there are times when they have sparks, but I felt like the romance and character development was too rushed. My opinion--there was a lot of potential with this book, but it needed some more development.

Content: mild romance

Topaz Reign by Teresa Richards {Blog Tour Review + Giveaway}

Topaz Reign (Altered Stones #2) by Teresa Richards

ebook

Published September 29th 2017 by Evernight Teen

    

Fairy tales are simply tales, told and re-told, but changed over time.

It has been four months since Maggie learned the dark truth behind the tale of the Princess and the Pea and freed Princess Lindy from the cursed Emerald. Lindy is now back in the past where she belongs, queen of her tiny Scandinavian country, and Maggie is a fully reformed ex-stalker.

Except … she can’t stop doing internet searches on Lindy and her country.

One morning, Maggie wakes to find history turned on its head. Apparently, you can’t destroy a centuries-old curse without consequence. In order to prevent the changes in history from wiping out the present, Maggie resurrects her stalking gene and learns that fairy tales don’t stay dead for long.

Or at all.

Back in 1623, Lindy is juggling a threat to her family, a handsome new guard she’s not supposed to have feelings for, and a cursed Topaz with ties to the tale of Thumbelina. When past and present collide, Lindy and Maggie are brought together again, and another of Andersen’s tales turns from twisted fiction to chilling fact.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

My Review: 5 Stars

I fell deep, head-over-heels in love with Book 1 and was so excited to continue on right where that one left off. Be sure to read this series in order to get the full effect.

Maggie and her brother, Tanner, are very likable and adventurous characters. Although teenagers, they do care for one another and I love how they really have each other's backs throughout this book. This story goes back and forth between modern times and the past, just as the other one did, and I love that process because I felt that I really got the full story, even though history keeps re-writing itself because of the time travel. 

Lindy and Goran are my favorite characters from the past and when their interactions meld and merge, my favorite scenes unfold. The action is very intense and I felt like I was going off to battle the evils of the world, right along with them. Some mysteries and secrets are uncovered and I was taken by surprise by some of them.

Somehow, when I read the synopsis, I missed which fairy tale this story was connecting to and I was a little disappointed to think that it wasn't going to tie in to one. About halfway through, my doubt was resolved and I found that Thumbelina was the lucky choice. I love how the fairy tales that are recreated aren't the typical, over-done stories, but are ones that are lesser known, which really gives the book a fresh vibe.

The romance is sweet and stabs at the heart a little in this book, but it's the magic and adventure that overpower this tale. The story is left hanging a little and a little clue within the pages makes me think that one more book (at least) will be written and let me just say, I CAN'T WAIT! And I really hope that one little detail that's been bugging me will be answered.

Content: mild romance; mild+ violence.

*I received a copy, which didn't affect my opinion in any way.*

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Buy Links:

 

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sigil in Shadow by Constance Roberts {Blog Tour Review}

Tour Schedule

Sigil in Shadow by Constance Roberts

Paperback, 256 pages

Published June 12th 2016 by Cedar Fort, Inc



Ellary Dane knows she deserves to die

- but not for a crime she didn’t commit.

She believes her 19 year streak of bad luck is over when she accidentally saves the life of a highborn officer and is taken to court to study under the tutelage of the most renowned healer in the kingdom. Suspicions surround her sudden presence, making her more enemies than allies. She soon finds herself ripped from her warm palace sheets and thrown into a dank prison cell.

As nobles vie for their spot on the throne, Ellary learns she is bound to a secret history that could change the kingdom forever. If she is going to break her chains, she must trust the charming stranger labeled as her accomplice and face the lie that pushed her into the silent warfare of highborn society.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

My Review: 4 Stars

Sigil in Shadow is a nice surprise. Although it takes place in the past, in a fantasy land, it almost has a modern feel as the story progresses, which makes it easy to read. There are a lot of secrets surrounding Ellary and her family and the way the book unfolds is charming. 

Ellary is summoned to the castle by the king after a situation arises that's completely out of her hands. There are great moments of intrigue and mystery that develop, but the execution (in places) is a turbulent.

I adore a story with good friendships and this book is heavy on loyalty, adventure, and mysterious circumstances. Throw in a few shady characters and the plot thickens. As my followers know, I also love a good, clean romance but this isn't what drives the story (a little to my disappointment) and it plays a very minor role. I would have loved to see this angle expanded on, as there is a lot of potential and would have made things more believable.

There are many elements to the story that drew me in--from masquerades, to potions, to royalty, to danger. I only wish that a few of the characters and situations had been developed just a little bit more because I'd really like to understand some of these motives better. The story flows along at a nice pace and then gets rough towards the end, with a few loose ties that just didn't quite make sense. All in all, it is a fun read.

Content: mild innuendo (implications of affairs, adultery); mild violence. Clean.

*I received a copy through the publisher in exchange for an honest review*

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Buy Links

 

 

 

About the Author:

Constance Roberts is a retired flight attendant who turned in her wings to stay at home with her adventurous daughter and to write. She and her husband live in St. Louis, Missouri where they spend the weekends playing board games with friends. She spends way too much time on Pinterest and her house is littered with half-finished craft projects. She is currently working on Bloodstones, the second book in the Onyx Moon Trilogy, and has big plans for another fantasy series.