Book Review-The Prince’s Bride

The Prince’s Bride
The Royal Trilogy (3)
Julianne MacLean
St. Martins
Paperback
Published May 2013
308 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-0-312-55281-7
Authors Website

Synopsis 
Marriage is more than she ever bargained for.

Bestselling author Julianne MacLean’s Regency-era trilogy of royal romance comes to a breathless conclusion…

Handsome Prince Nicholas of Petersbourg is an infamous ladies’ man, but even he doesn’t expect a flirtation at a masquerade ball to turn into abduction. Especially with a jailor as temptingly beautiful as the young woman on the other side of the locked door…

Veronique Montagne was desperate when she agreed to kidnap a prince to settle her profligate father’s gambling debts, and certainly didn’t imagine that her prisoner might sweet-talk her into helping him escape. Saving her home is now the least of her troubles, especially when the attraction simmering between her and the angry prince blazes into true passion. To save them both from scandal, Nicholas proposes a convenient marriage—but when a vengeful plot threatens to tear them apart, he discovers that Veronique’s love is what he desires most of all…

My Review
Veronique Montagne is desperate to save her families land, even if she has no choice but to kidnap the Prince of Petersbourg to do it. Veronique’s father lost their land in a gambling card game, and she is being forced to kidnap Prince Nicholas. So at a masked ball, she entices the prince into a carriage with her, and she puts a sleeping drought in his drink, and soon he is as helpless as a babe in her carriage. She has no idea why the Marquess wants the prince, but she knows if she has any chance to save her family, she must stay firm, even though she feels a attraction to Nicholas and the last thing she wants is to put him in danger. After a couple of days of Nicholas throwing furniture and threatening her harm, he starts to cajole her, and seduce her with his voice and his warm promises of safety and protection. So she decides that she will risk everything to set him free, but when she does he is furious. Nicholas can hardly believe that he has been kidnapped, and by a beautiful woman no less, a woman he would eagerly bed. Nicholas has a reputation with the women that would rival any mans, however when he sets his eyes on Veronique he is mystified. He can’t keep her out of his thoughts or keep his body from responding to her. When a truth of his past comes to light, Veronique is his lifeline and he realizes he would do anything to keep this woman in his life, even marry the woman. But life is about to become more rocky, and only with their love and trust in each other, will they be able to overcome the challenge that could risk everything…

The Prince’s Bride is the third in the Royal Trilogy. I just love royal love stories, and I found that Julianne Maclean did a fair job with it. The Prince’s Bride I would say is the most carefree of the three. It does contain a more serious note to it, but I love the lightness to the story, it wasn’t too heavy or smothering at all. In fact I can’t believe how fast I breezed through this book, before I knew it the story was over and I felt a little sad since I am pretty sure this is the last installment. I have read quite a bit of Julianne Maclean and this trilogy is my favorite of her works so far. I have been looking forward to Nicholas’ story for quite some time, so I couldn’t wait to read about how Nicholas surrenders to loves kiss, he is a rake and scoundrel and very wicked. Nicholas is the type of hero that you know you will right away from the first page. I love his nonchalant manner that he portrays, but when you delve deeper into the story, you see a side of him that is far different. Nicholas has suffered from verbal abuse from his father and struggles with his own worth and has for many years. When he meets Veronique, she changes everything including making him believe that there is something redeemable in himself. I loved these two characters together, their relationship a bit rocky, but overall playful and strong and had a hint of sensuality that casts a spell over the reader. Veronique was the type of heroine you just melted into. She is strong, courageous, and has a will of iron and even though she has a passionate nature, but because of the scandal attached to her families name due to her father, she refuses to give into her yearning for Nicholas, wanting to show her family that she won’t shame them. It was fun seeing her kidnap the prince, and see them fall pretty quickly in love with each other. It may have been quick, but I didn’t feel like it was too rushed, the author coaxes them gently into it, its not all of a sudden, you see it gradually happening, so its not so much of a shock.

Overall I couldn’t help but fall madly in love with with The Prince’s Bride. It contained all the characteristics of a solid romance to appeal to me from page one. A Sparkling romance that delivers…GUARANTEED TO ROMANCE YOU!!!

First Line 
This was wrong, so very, very wrong….

Favorite Quote 
“There is something else we agreed upon,” he said “and I believe I will claim it now.” In a smooth, swift wave of motion, his mouth found hers. The kiss was firm and demanding, and before she could comprehend what might happen next, she wrapped her arms around his neck and began kissing him passionately in the last of the afternoon light. 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
He angled his body on the seat to face her. “I suppose I don’t enjoy endless coach rides over bumpy roads, but you are mad if you think I could have any regrets. How many times do I have to tell you? You are my obsession.” He pressed his lips to hers, and she was immediately pulled into the intoxicating fire of his allure. 

My Grade 
5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books  In Series 
Be My Prince
Princess in Love 

 

Book Review-Princess In Love

Princess In Love
The Royal Trilogy
Julianne MacLean
St Martins
Paperback
Published November 2012
339 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN 978-0-312-55279-4

Synopsis 

Leopold Hunt, Marquess of Cavanaugh, is a secret Royalist with a distant hereditary claim to the throne. He has been groomed to one day overthrow the king and rebuild his family’s dynasty. Only one thing stands in his way: the king’s daughter, Rose.

Princess Rose has loved the marquess her entire life, but she is about to enter a political marriage—one that promises to help keep her father in power. There is virtually no way for Rose to escape her fate…yet she cannot resist the unstoppable passion she feels in the arms of the handsome and charming marquess. When a dangerous plot unfolds and puts their love to the ultimate test—Leopold must make a desperate choice: To honor his family or follow his heart.

My Review

Summary 
Princess Rose has been in love with Leopold Hunt all of her life. But then two years ago he rejected her and hurt her more than she thought possible. Now she is engaged to another man, whom she may not love, but she knows they will make a good match. When her carriage suffers a accident in England, she is shocked when the marquess himself comes to rescue her. Face to face with Leopold has stirred up all of her old feelings that she once thought were buried. Leopold, knows he made a mistake with Rose those years ago, but now is free from his father’s manipulations to pursue his true desires….which lie in a future with Rose. Now all he has to do is convince her how sincere he is this time around, and prove to her of his love and his devotion.

The Hero (Leopold Hunt)
Ever since he was a boy, he has known of his destiny, to be the true leader, and the King. His fate has already been written for him. Now with King Randoplh married, his fathers plans for him have changed, and he is now able to pursue a life of his own. All he has ever wanted is to have Princess Rose as his wife and now he has one chance with her if his past doesn’t catch up with him and ruin everything

The Heroine (Princess Rose)
Rose, has known loss and heartbreak, but had her family for support. Now she is engaged to be married, although its not one of love, she knows it is her duty. And when things are starting to look up for her, a old love, Leopold, comes back in her life wanting her back. Rose knows she should resist his tender touches and romantic whisperings that make her want to sucuumb to the desire that rises within her. But she will have to make a choice…duty or true love?

My Thoughts
Princess In Love is the second in this trilogy. I found myself really enjoying this one, although I did like Rose, I think I enjoyed Leopold even more. We see such strength from him, and I just love seeing how hard he tries to prove himself to Rose. I found him very endearing at various times. Leopold is a very striking characters, that just makes you want to cheer him on. I think Rose could have been more self aware, she seemed to me to be a bit spineless at times. But I did grow to like her, especially at the end. This story is divided into four parts and I just loved how this story was put together. Even though there were parts that I questioned “Why???” I definitely found it to be a sensual and witty read that keeps the reader engaged. I loved the depth of emotion that is portrayed through to the reader. Again Julianne Maclean delivers a compelling love story that will knock your socks off!!

My Favorite Quote 
Rose smiled up at him with love, and the world seemed to glow in the morning light as Leopold leaned closer and touched his lips to hers.  

My Grade On This Book 
4.5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In The Series 
Be My Prince
The Prince’s Bride

Book Review- Be My Prince

Be My Prince
The Royal Trilogy (1)
Julianne MacLean
St Martins
Paperback
Published May 2012
308 Pages
Regency Historical Romance

Synopsis 
Attention one and all. His Royal Highness, Prince Randolph of Petersbourg, will set sail for London in early June and reside at St. James Palace for one full month…Some say the true motive for the prince’s visit to our fair country is to seek and marry his future queen. I will therefore pose the question to our devoted and reflective readers: Who among us will be the chosen one? —From the London Ballroom Society Pages

Lady Alexandra Monroe has been told in no uncertain terms that she must set her sights on a proposal from Prince Randolph to better her family’s situation. Instead, she finds herself falling for his charming but dangerous younger brother Nicholas, a man whose passionate nature—and irresistible good looks—makes it impossible to remember her duty. But while she is torn between ambition and desire, a wicked scandal brews, shocking secrets are revealed, and soon she begins to wonder: can true love really conquer all?

My Review
Summary
Alexandra, after learning about her true past, she has learned of her true destiny. So out of duty and obligation she sets her sights on Prince Randolph. Even though he is attractive and charming, he is not the brother she is attracted to, because she is drawn to his brother Nicholas. A man who stirs up her senses like no other man has. Even though she knows there is no future for them, she can’t help but tremble with his kiss he gives her. Alexandra, knows she must focus on Prince Randolph, knowing that he is part of her destiny. But then she will have to make a choice, a difficult one, decide what is more important her duty to country or to fight for a life with Nicholas?

My Thoughts 
I skipped part of the review layout this time due to the fact that I don’t want to reveal any spoilers for those that haven’t had the chance to read it. Before I got my hands on this one, I had heard many good things about this new series by Juilianne Maclean. I have just loved her books so far, she is such a captivating author, that draws a reader instantly into a book. Its rare for me to instantly be drawn into the story so immediately. I just loved everything about this one. At times I get nervous over reading royalty fiction. It can be hard to get into at times. However I found this one to be very refreshing at every turn. There was a intriguing plot, where it seemed to me like there was more than one climax. I really loved the variety of scenes that happen, and when you think you have seen the HEA, the story keeps continuing on and is very engaging and keeps the reader involved continually in the story. The characters seemed full of life, fresh like newly picked flowers. I loved both the hero and heroine in this one, however I think for the latter half of the story I was on Alex’s side of things to be honest. Although I did enjoy how things really work out in the end, despite the obvious game of lies and deceit. However we also see two people learning how to truly love and trust in each other I am also looking forward to reading more of this series. It definitely was a exciting adventure reading this one and am looking forward to more!

My Favorite Quote
“I burn for you, Alex. I want you in my bed every second of the day, and there are moments I want to throw my whole heart and soul into yours.”

My Grade On This Book 
4.5 Blossoms

Other Books In The Series 
Princess In Love
The Prince’s Bride
 

Book Review-Surrender To A Scoundrel

Surrender To A Scoundrel
American Heiress Series
Julianne MacLean
Avon,
368 Pages
Published January 2007
Paperback
Victorian Historical Romance
ISBN:978006081819361

Synopsis:
No woman can resist him. . .

Lord Martin Langdon takes pride in his scandalous reputation as a scoundrel, and he considers the art of seduction a most rewarding pastime. So when this dashing rakehell learns of a particularly beautiful woman who is “impossible to flirt with,” Martin is determined to prove that not even the prim and proper Evelyn Wheaton can resist his charms.

Except one.

Evelyn knows all about the reckless rogue’s shocking reputation and she wants nothing to do with him. She may be looking for a husband, but Martin is certainly not a candidate. The smoldering looks he sends her way, however, are a different matter entirely. She suspects there is great passion to be had if she’d throw caution to the wind and surrender to this scoundrel . . . but dare she risk her heart?

And will Martin, who hides a most tormented past, find true love at last?

My Review: 

Summary:
Lord Martin Langdon has great pride in his scandalous reputation that he has created for himself. Now he is a boat racer, and a competant and talented one at that, and now the race is on for who will win Evelyn Wheaton, a widow, just come out of mouring, and looking for marriage and a family. So Martin pursues the beautiful widow Evelyn, because part of him can’t stand to see his rival winning the hand of her, because on the outside she seems prim, cool and proper, however he is determined to break down that barrier and find a passionate woman with dreams and desires that he plans to unravel, however he never expected to fall in love while he was doing it, or to find that she has found joy and love in his embrace and never wanting to let go, despite the pain that holds Langdon back from racing toward the greatest happiness he would ever find….in Evelyn’s arms.

The Hero 
Martin Langdon, when he a boy rescued Evelyn from the icy lake, but never received a thank you from the cool and proper Evelyn. When they were teenager Evelyn caught him being the rascal he was, pursuing anything that was open and in skirts, however now ten years later he has changed. Martin has suffered a great pain, that he has yet to grieve for. Now he is a racer, wrecked two boats that his brother bought for him, seeming to be aloof about life, however Martin is a deep and passionate man, and there is only one person that bring down his fake barriers and to help him feel once more.

The Heroine
Evelyn Wheaton, growing up admired the young boy that rescued her and saved her life, but then she catches him in bed with a maid, and her closest friend with a broken heart, and remains cool and above him, for she knows she can’t afford to get hurt, because she has yet to feel love or happiness in her young life. Having to guard her heart, based on her father’s poor treament of her, she has had to do everything by duty, but now a widow and out of mourning, she desires for love and a family, not knowing that she truly desires is passion and a vibrancy to live life as fully as she possibly can, and have no regrets.

My Thoughts:
Surrender To A Scoundrel is the sixth installment in the American Heiress Series that Julianne Maclean has written. I have to say that from the first to last page I was entranced by this romantic story that takes us back to the late 1800’s in England. Its about a story of two young people that care for each other without fully realizing that they are destined for each other, through a twist of fate. Both the hero and heroine in this story have suffered some version of pain and suffering in their lives, and only when they come to each other and find love. I found the characters of this story to be endearing, the plot to be filled with one adventure after another, and this author has such a talent for writing memorable romantic fiction.

My Grade On This Book 
4.5 Blossoms  

Other Books In The Series:
 To Marry The Duke
An Affair Most Wicked
My Own Private Hero
Love According To Lily
Portrait Of A Lover