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Royalty #1
Ascending
Growing up fifth in line for the throne, Elizabeth never thought she would have to rule the small island nation of St. Rais. When a plot to take down the monarchy also takes her entire family from her, Elizabeth is thrust into the role of reluctant Queen. Not only did she lose most of her family, but she also lost the only love she’d ever known.
Palmer Honeycutt, a reporter for a popular New York City newspaper, was on vacation in a country nearly no one had heard of before. A deal she’d gotten at the relaxing resort and spa had been just what she’d needed. Little did she know that while she was trying to relax, the whole royal family would nearly be lost to tragedy, and a young Queen would present her a perfect story.
Both women approach their new relationship cautiously at first, but it doesn’t take long for Palmer to start wishing the new Queen was someone she could spend more time with. Elizabeth also seems to have a lot of time for Palmer, which only confuses Palmer more.
After all Elizabeth has lost and what she’s willing to give up for her country, is she also willing to risk it all to possibly find love again in an American reporter who’s been there for her during the toughest part of her life?
Palmer Honeycutt, a reporter for a popular New York City newspaper, was on vacation in a country nearly no one had heard of before. A deal she’d gotten at the relaxing resort and spa had been just what she’d needed. Little did she know that while she was trying to relax, the whole royal family would nearly be lost to tragedy, and a young Queen would present her a perfect story.
Both women approach their new relationship cautiously at first, but it doesn’t take long for Palmer to start wishing the new Queen was someone she could spend more time with. Elizabeth also seems to have a lot of time for Palmer, which only confuses Palmer more.
After all Elizabeth has lost and what she’s willing to give up for her country, is she also willing to risk it all to possibly find love again in an American reporter who’s been there for her during the toughest part of her life?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 24, 2023
225 people are currently reading
865 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Pyland
80 books821 followersNicole Pyland is a bestselling author of lesbian romance novels, including No After You, All the Love Songs, and the series like Chicago, San Francisco, Tahoe, Sports, Boston, and more. Since 2017, she’s published over 30 novels (not including her What Happened After shorts), and more books are on their way!
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a start-up. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
Website: nicolepyland.com
Newsletter: nicolepyland.com/newsletter
Twitter: @nicole_pyland
Facebook: @nicolepylandauthor
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a start-up. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
Website: nicolepyland.com
Newsletter: nicolepyland.com/newsletter
Twitter: @nicole_pyland
Facebook: @nicolepylandauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
March 5, 2023
'Arc generously given by The Author in exchange for my honest review'
**'Keep on learning your craft. Keep those meaningful ideas hidden like special words, images, researched information, detailed knowledge etc. in order to tell good stories..'
Charming read!
With this first book in the 'Royalty' series which i think comes partly under historical fiction genre, the storytelling by Ms. Pyland shines and even shows her strength as a writer of any genre -- where she tells this fascinating, exquisitely well-detailed story that's populated with waves of emotional connections, monarchical history of a small island, memorable moments of resonance, cyclical narrative and well-drawn secondary & supportive characters whose dialogues of motivation, do rings true to the social climate of that island --- in this case, The Queen of St. Rais falling in love with a reporter from America.
I do compliment Ms. Pyland for not rushing the storyline because as we have come to the familiarization of many of her stories, it's instant everything pertaining to relationships. But with 'ASCENDING' she took her time slowly developing and masking their (Elizabeth & Palmer) relationship which started from tragedy to the thrills of falling in love with maybe a joyous outlook for the future.
The blurb does not mislead -- it's exactly as is and more. Like loads of historical insights, variety of family dynamics, captivating scenes of the island which can read as one of the main characters besides Elizabeth & Palmer because of it's natural beauty, friendly people etc.. The book do stays within the realms of telling this enjoyable love story with moral boundaries of trust, decisiveness, honesty, faith and declaration of love where parts might be pathos to satisfying those picky readers but Ms. Pyland has given us a nice start to her newly minted 'Royalty' series.
Highly recommended book #1!
**'Keep on learning your craft. Keep those meaningful ideas hidden like special words, images, researched information, detailed knowledge etc. in order to tell good stories..'
Charming read!
With this first book in the 'Royalty' series which i think comes partly under historical fiction genre, the storytelling by Ms. Pyland shines and even shows her strength as a writer of any genre -- where she tells this fascinating, exquisitely well-detailed story that's populated with waves of emotional connections, monarchical history of a small island, memorable moments of resonance, cyclical narrative and well-drawn secondary & supportive characters whose dialogues of motivation, do rings true to the social climate of that island --- in this case, The Queen of St. Rais falling in love with a reporter from America.
I do compliment Ms. Pyland for not rushing the storyline because as we have come to the familiarization of many of her stories, it's instant everything pertaining to relationships. But with 'ASCENDING' she took her time slowly developing and masking their (Elizabeth & Palmer) relationship which started from tragedy to the thrills of falling in love with maybe a joyous outlook for the future.
The blurb does not mislead -- it's exactly as is and more. Like loads of historical insights, variety of family dynamics, captivating scenes of the island which can read as one of the main characters besides Elizabeth & Palmer because of it's natural beauty, friendly people etc.. The book do stays within the realms of telling this enjoyable love story with moral boundaries of trust, decisiveness, honesty, faith and declaration of love where parts might be pathos to satisfying those picky readers but Ms. Pyland has given us a nice start to her newly minted 'Royalty' series.
Highly recommended book #1!
March 11, 2023
The reporter and the queen.
This is the first book of the Royalty Series. It is a romance novel that tells a story about a queen from the European island of St Rais falling in love with an American reporter and this is one romance I would definitely recommend. It is, in my opinion, one of the best royalty romances I've come across and it is by far Nicole Pyland's best. The story revolves around Elizabeth, a young princess, 5th in line to the throne, who is made monarch of her country overnight following the assassination of her (almost) entire family. Meanwhile, American reporter, Palmer, has been tasked to write a story about the new queen and ends up falling in love.
I thought this story was well written. Both characters were incredibly likable and their chemistry was really good. One of the strengths of this book is the pacing of the romance. It's a bit of a slow burn but I enjoyed every bit of the journey never once finding it too slow. It's also believable considering the women come from completely different worlds and one of them has just recently experienced a family tragedy. Another strength is its portrayal of the world of European royalty where the descriptions of palace life and royal protocol were all quite well done.
Overall, this was an incredibly entertaining read with engaging characters and a satisfying ending. Good start to a new series. Highly recommended!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book of the Royalty Series. It is a romance novel that tells a story about a queen from the European island of St Rais falling in love with an American reporter and this is one romance I would definitely recommend. It is, in my opinion, one of the best royalty romances I've come across and it is by far Nicole Pyland's best. The story revolves around Elizabeth, a young princess, 5th in line to the throne, who is made monarch of her country overnight following the assassination of her (almost) entire family. Meanwhile, American reporter, Palmer, has been tasked to write a story about the new queen and ends up falling in love.
I thought this story was well written. Both characters were incredibly likable and their chemistry was really good. One of the strengths of this book is the pacing of the romance. It's a bit of a slow burn but I enjoyed every bit of the journey never once finding it too slow. It's also believable considering the women come from completely different worlds and one of them has just recently experienced a family tragedy. Another strength is its portrayal of the world of European royalty where the descriptions of palace life and royal protocol were all quite well done.
Overall, this was an incredibly entertaining read with engaging characters and a satisfying ending. Good start to a new series. Highly recommended!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
Nice story and I liked both MCs and their families.
I can appreciate Elizabeth’s gratitude and fondness for Parker when she was there for her after loosing her family. Someone special has done that for me and it has meant a lot. So cheers to humans caring for each other during hard times. 😊🥲
Nice story and I liked both MCs and their families.
I can appreciate Elizabeth’s gratitude and fondness for Parker when she was there for her after loosing her family. Someone special has done that for me and it has meant a lot. So cheers to humans caring for each other during hard times. 😊🥲
March 11, 2023
Such a nice and cozy read. Royal romance isn't something I've enjoyed this much previously but when Nicole Pyland attempts a royal series you just have to get into it because you know it'll be something different. A good different.
Reporter Palmer Honeycutt is vacationing in St. Rais when most of the royal family gets killed in an anti-monarchy terrorist bombing. Fifth in line for the throne Elizabeth never expected to become the Queen one day, but she is now. This new role is way out of her comfort zone. When a tenacious but quiet and understanding reporter asks for an interview Elizabeth’s world settles again.
Palmer is loyal and quite taken with Elizabeth early on. The Queen has some similar feelings but she has to be a bit more standoffish and careful. Elizabeth grows in her role as Queen with the quiet support of Palmer.
Both characters are very likable, we get to know Lizzy a bit more than Palmer, while that's understandable I would have enjoyed a bit more of a character arc for this sweet reporter. Her family seems nice, but we see little of them. I also would have liked to have seen a bit more of Lizzy’s sister Victoria and maybe even some of the staff.
I guess we always have the next books in the series to get us a little more. The series won't be heavily connected as I understood. It could be read as a standalone.
This really is a cozy and low-angst story, even when you take the bombing and solving that into account. It's lovely and just the read I needed right now.
4.5 stars.
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review
Reporter Palmer Honeycutt is vacationing in St. Rais when most of the royal family gets killed in an anti-monarchy terrorist bombing. Fifth in line for the throne Elizabeth never expected to become the Queen one day, but she is now. This new role is way out of her comfort zone. When a tenacious but quiet and understanding reporter asks for an interview Elizabeth’s world settles again.
Palmer is loyal and quite taken with Elizabeth early on. The Queen has some similar feelings but she has to be a bit more standoffish and careful. Elizabeth grows in her role as Queen with the quiet support of Palmer.
Both characters are very likable, we get to know Lizzy a bit more than Palmer, while that's understandable I would have enjoyed a bit more of a character arc for this sweet reporter. Her family seems nice, but we see little of them. I also would have liked to have seen a bit more of Lizzy’s sister Victoria and maybe even some of the staff.
I guess we always have the next books in the series to get us a little more. The series won't be heavily connected as I understood. It could be read as a standalone.
This really is a cozy and low-angst story, even when you take the bombing and solving that into account. It's lovely and just the read I needed right now.
4.5 stars.
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review
January 12, 2024
Wasn’t really feeling the chemistry between Elizabeth and Palmer. I also had a hard time believing Elizabeth just lost almost everyone she loved. You could not tell by her emotions and her point of view didn’t really showcase that either.
May 8, 2023
I started with book 2 because the premise was more interesting to me, but I wish I had started with this one because PERFECTION!! So much better!! I loved every second 😍 The chemistry between Palmer and Elizabeth was chef’s kiss and their dynamic was so lovely. I wanna read so much more about them 🥰 They make a few appearances in book 2 but I just can’t get enough of them. Can’t wait for book 3!
April 3, 2023
4 - 4,5 ⭐️
May 19, 2023
*Rating this with 4 stars but I’m really reconsidering it and to turn it to 5 stars.
Such a different story and I loved it! I used to be very interested in how monarchies worked, and I used to read a lot about it, not of the people but the system so it was very nice to read about it in this book.
This story is angst-free but not necessarily written as a fairy tale, you will find a bit of everything but most importantly consistency and very well written characters.
Elizabeth becomes Queen under the worst circumstances ever.
Palmer Honeycutt is in the right place during a horrific time not for her but for Elizabeth.
The supporting characters are so good that they make the story work, in this instance Elizabeth sister, secretary... They are so well put together that you want to know their story too.
This book makes so many things special, was very well thought out.
Such a different story and I loved it! I used to be very interested in how monarchies worked, and I used to read a lot about it, not of the people but the system so it was very nice to read about it in this book.
This story is angst-free but not necessarily written as a fairy tale, you will find a bit of everything but most importantly consistency and very well written characters.
Elizabeth becomes Queen under the worst circumstances ever.
Palmer Honeycutt is in the right place during a horrific time not for her but for Elizabeth.
The supporting characters are so good that they make the story work, in this instance Elizabeth sister, secretary... They are so well put together that you want to know their story too.
This book makes so many things special, was very well thought out.
April 6, 2023
3.5 stars A solid outing into a new series. You can never go wrong with this author.
April 23, 2023
Palmer is as sweet as her name. At first I was scared drama might come from a disloyalty from her and I am glad Pyland chose another path. She is honest, loyal and puts the well being of the one she loves first.
Elizabeth meets Palmer at the worst time of her life. I liked the way her secrets are slowly revealed. The mystery even made me fear for a moment that it would be impossible for me to root for her to fall so fast for Palmer.
There is a lot of healthy communication between the main characters. I really liked the way the relationship is slowly built, with a lot of patience, understanding of each other's life and obligations, and trust. This story is also about the balance between the will to honor the lost ones and building something of your own from something inherited.
Pyland made sure the future they are building together is opened to possiblities, not making one of them giving up everything for each other.
This is a sweet slow burn,with a good pace and low angst royal romance.
Elizabeth meets Palmer at the worst time of her life. I liked the way her secrets are slowly revealed. The mystery even made me fear for a moment that it would be impossible for me to root for her to fall so fast for Palmer.
There is a lot of healthy communication between the main characters. I really liked the way the relationship is slowly built, with a lot of patience, understanding of each other's life and obligations, and trust. This story is also about the balance between the will to honor the lost ones and building something of your own from something inherited.
Pyland made sure the future they are building together is opened to possiblities, not making one of them giving up everything for each other.
This is a sweet slow burn,with a good pace and low angst royal romance.
August 28, 2023
I am always Looking for a sapphic Royal romance, and this one is the best i read so far 🔥🔥.
I loved both Elizabeth and Palmer, I could feel the chemistry between them from the first moment they met 🥺
The thing Elizabeth went through broke my heart, any other person would’ve isolated themselves from the rest of the world, good thing Palmer was there to support her
I was frustrated that there was only one sex scene, i really really needed more, Pyland definitely can write them that’s why i am so frustrated 😭
Also they kept talking about The coronation the entire book and when it was time we only get a small part without any details, and we didn’t even see what Elizabeth said?
The story is amazing, the writing is beautiful, i liked the side character especially Victoria she’s funny and very protected of her sister
Tell them Vicky teeeell them 😂😂😂.
Overall 4 ⭐️, a Queen and a QUEEN consort? Who could say no to that? 🔥🔥.
I loved both Elizabeth and Palmer, I could feel the chemistry between them from the first moment they met 🥺
The thing Elizabeth went through broke my heart, any other person would’ve isolated themselves from the rest of the world, good thing Palmer was there to support her
But you, you, Elizabeth, you will be an amazing Queen.”
I was frustrated that there was only one sex scene, i really really needed more, Pyland definitely can write them that’s why i am so frustrated 😭
Also they kept talking about The coronation the entire book and when it was time we only get a small part without any details, and we didn’t even see what Elizabeth said?
The story is amazing, the writing is beautiful, i liked the side character especially Victoria she’s funny and very protected of her sister
“No dirty texts? What’s the point?” Victoria flopped onto the sofa.”
Tell them Vicky teeeell them 😂😂😂.
Overall 4 ⭐️, a Queen and a QUEEN consort? Who could say no to that? 🔥🔥.
November 24, 2024
How did I miss this? Nicole Poland + Royality, 5* before I open the book. Glorious, love it. Go on, treat yourself: read it! Love it second time too!
March 20, 2023
Oh I how I loved this book!
I literature could not put it down and almost got myself into trouble for it, but I HAD to know what happened next.
As always, the chemistry between the MCs was beautiful, and the character building and growth was impeccable.
A queen and a commoner, a tragic back story and the courage and strength to choose your own happiness. It was beautiful and steamy, and I cannot wait for the next one.
I literature could not put it down and almost got myself into trouble for it, but I HAD to know what happened next.
As always, the chemistry between the MCs was beautiful, and the character building and growth was impeccable.
A queen and a commoner, a tragic back story and the courage and strength to choose your own happiness. It was beautiful and steamy, and I cannot wait for the next one.
March 23, 2023
I look forward to any upcoming release from Nicole Pyland, her back catalogue speaks volumes for the talent she has in delivering relevant stories, more often than not about authentic groups of friends who find love while navigating the worlds they live in.
Ascending, book one in her Royalty series may be set in the world of a monarchy, but the same rules apply. A great group of characters, two MCs falling for each other against all odds, with a little bit of drama and longing to keep the momentum going.
Elizabeth has grown up as the daughter of a King but is so far from the next in line for the throne that she has managed to live a relatively normal life. When tragedy strikes, and she is suddenly facing life as the Queen of St. Rais, Lizzy is all in. Her country is her pride and joy, and she feels a sense of responsibility to be there for her people, even if there are anti-monarchists raising questions as to whether she is needed or not.
Palmer, a reporter from New York, is holidaying in St Rais, in need of respite after her girlfriend asks for a break. She decides to hang around and cover the story of the new Queen, although being an American, she struggles with the constraints and customs of the monarchy but finds she has an instant connection with Lizzy, and not just as a subject for her article.
Pyland’s writing style, as always, suits the narrative and the characters, and she is creating a whole new series to look forward to. If you are after a low angst, original story about two women from completely different wakes of life falling for each other, be sure to check out Ascending.
Ascending, book one in her Royalty series may be set in the world of a monarchy, but the same rules apply. A great group of characters, two MCs falling for each other against all odds, with a little bit of drama and longing to keep the momentum going.
Elizabeth has grown up as the daughter of a King but is so far from the next in line for the throne that she has managed to live a relatively normal life. When tragedy strikes, and she is suddenly facing life as the Queen of St. Rais, Lizzy is all in. Her country is her pride and joy, and she feels a sense of responsibility to be there for her people, even if there are anti-monarchists raising questions as to whether she is needed or not.
Palmer, a reporter from New York, is holidaying in St Rais, in need of respite after her girlfriend asks for a break. She decides to hang around and cover the story of the new Queen, although being an American, she struggles with the constraints and customs of the monarchy but finds she has an instant connection with Lizzy, and not just as a subject for her article.
Pyland’s writing style, as always, suits the narrative and the characters, and she is creating a whole new series to look forward to. If you are after a low angst, original story about two women from completely different wakes of life falling for each other, be sure to check out Ascending.
May 10, 2023
Palmer is vacationing in St. Rais a little unknown country in N. Europe. Elizabeth is the princess, as is her younger sister Victoria. They're on a plane on the way back when they recieve the news that the rest of the family, including the King, have been killed in a bombing. Palmer is told by her editor to stay for the story. In doing so she gets an audience with the new Queen. Palmer and Elizabeth become friends, then fall in love. Can they master Elizabeth not being out, or the distance? This is a lovely slow burn romance. 5 stars!
March 30, 2023
Las buenas calificaciones a veces engañan....
El inicio bastante estresante, es lento y sin casi nada de trama, el clímax es el mejor, pero a penas dura nada.
Lo cierto es que al ser el primer libro de una serie, y por cómo se estaban dando las cosas de lento, me imaginé que habría más libros con estas mujeres, porque obvio la historia se prestaba para ello, y oh! sorpresa, hay nuevas protagonistas.
Y entonces este libro me dejó con muchas ganas de más, con dudas y con un final super precipitado queriendo rellenar todo y es una gran lastima porque la historia podría haber dado una cosa interesante.
Leeré el que sigue solo para saber si mencionan a estás chicas de pasada y ver en qué va su historia...
El inicio bastante estresante, es lento y sin casi nada de trama, el clímax es el mejor, pero a penas dura nada.
Lo cierto es que al ser el primer libro de una serie, y por cómo se estaban dando las cosas de lento, me imaginé que habría más libros con estas mujeres, porque obvio la historia se prestaba para ello, y oh! sorpresa, hay nuevas protagonistas.
Y entonces este libro me dejó con muchas ganas de más, con dudas y con un final super precipitado queriendo rellenar todo y es una gran lastima porque la historia podría haber dado una cosa interesante.
Leeré el que sigue solo para saber si mencionan a estás chicas de pasada y ver en qué va su historia...
July 30, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this book! I had misgivings to start reading this book that’s why it took me ages. Royalty tropes usually have the ‘saviour complex’ for the partner or stiff upper lip royal which is why I was pleasantly surprised when this book had none of my preconceived notions.
Nicole Pyland is a staple when it comes to good romance novels, that’s a given. The author extending it to royalty waters just proved my point. The themes tackled in the book such as grief, internalised homophobia and integrity to name a few were beautiful accents to the story and written exquisitely. I did not find myself taking a break from reading like I do other books when the story gets tedious. On the contrary I found myself immersed and blinking myself to the present because I had to attend to necessary bodily functions. I am looking forward to the whole series!
Nicole Pyland is a staple when it comes to good romance novels, that’s a given. The author extending it to royalty waters just proved my point. The themes tackled in the book such as grief, internalised homophobia and integrity to name a few were beautiful accents to the story and written exquisitely. I did not find myself taking a break from reading like I do other books when the story gets tedious. On the contrary I found myself immersed and blinking myself to the present because I had to attend to necessary bodily functions. I am looking forward to the whole series!
June 12, 2023
3.5
this is very much a bog standard royalty romance book. you go through every stage you’d expect them to go through and obviously we end up at point b of the happily ever after.
while the characters are great and i did enjoy their story there really isn’t a lot going on and at times it felt like the author was throwing stuff in there to keep things moving that were small and really were a bit trivial.
i also thought the ending of the book was rushed. one moment i was still reading normal chapters and there still seemed like there was some stuff that needed working out and next minute i’m turning the page and seeing “epilogue”. so i think the ending could’ve been hashed out a bit more.
overall, this book is nice and easy going if you’re looking for a sweet royal romance book but it’s nothing too crazy.
this is very much a bog standard royalty romance book. you go through every stage you’d expect them to go through and obviously we end up at point b of the happily ever after.
while the characters are great and i did enjoy their story there really isn’t a lot going on and at times it felt like the author was throwing stuff in there to keep things moving that were small and really were a bit trivial.
i also thought the ending of the book was rushed. one moment i was still reading normal chapters and there still seemed like there was some stuff that needed working out and next minute i’m turning the page and seeing “epilogue”. so i think the ending could’ve been hashed out a bit more.
overall, this book is nice and easy going if you’re looking for a sweet royal romance book but it’s nothing too crazy.
May 13, 2023
Ascending
Nicole Pyland is very talented. I love her pairing of couples for making the perfect match. I have enjoyed each book that I've read by this author and always came back to reread them, this series will be no different. I look forward to the next royalty book.
Nicole Pyland is very talented. I love her pairing of couples for making the perfect match. I have enjoyed each book that I've read by this author and always came back to reread them, this series will be no different. I look forward to the next royalty book.
May 15, 2023
It was a fun read and I went through it super fast, but I missed a little bit more of drama, to be honest. I feel like this story had enough on its own for some more pages. But it was still pretty good!
March 28, 2023
when i die, i want nicole pyland to write a book about my life
January 25, 2024
i love lesbian princesses
March 16, 2023
Ascending by Nicole Pyland is the first book in the Royalty series situated on the island of St Rais. Through a series of unfortunate events Elizabeth finds herself heir to the throne.
Queue Palmer, an American reporter who was holidaying on the island when news of events broke and was called upon by the newspaper to cover the situation.
Ascending is a slow burn romance involving secrecy, loss, love and regret with some awesome one liners thrown in. The pace of the book and good character development make for a great read. For anyone completing a reading challenge, this book covers a few different tropes.
I would highly recommend this book and look forward to the next in the series.
ARC copy received for an honest review.
Queue Palmer, an American reporter who was holidaying on the island when news of events broke and was called upon by the newspaper to cover the situation.
Ascending is a slow burn romance involving secrecy, loss, love and regret with some awesome one liners thrown in. The pace of the book and good character development make for a great read. For anyone completing a reading challenge, this book covers a few different tropes.
I would highly recommend this book and look forward to the next in the series.
ARC copy received for an honest review.
June 23, 2023
It was a cute short read, there wasn’t really any drama and it was a straight forward romance. No third act breakup, no cheating, no drama at all. Kind of too perfect, it was cute and fluffy. I feel like I didn’t get enough of Elizabeth’s grief. She lost her whole family and we barely got anything from that.
April 10, 2023
Long love the Queen
In Ascending, Nicole Pyland takes readers overseas to the small island kingdom of St. Rais, between Norway and Greenland, where New York City journalist Palmer Honeycutt is taking a break from her job and her eroding nine-month-old relationship.
Just as her vacation is winding down, a terrible tragedy rocks the royal family. Palmer’s editor assigns her to the story, extending her stay in St. Rais indefinitely and giving her the opportunity to report a possible Pulitzer-worthy story.
Palmer first must figure out how an American reporter can earn an interview with the new Queen, who only days before was fifth in line to the throne as Her Royal Highness Princess Elizabeth Antonia Victoria Louise Hanover — or more familiarly, Elizabeth or Lizzy.
Palmer not only has to secure the confidence of a bereft woman who never expected to occupy the throne, she also must navigate the tight security surrounding the Queen.
Palmer’s integrity and likability soon earns her an audience with Elizabeth, whom she finds smart, considerate beautiful, and concerned for her country. Lizzy, in turn, finds an understanding, effervescent, and ethical friend in Palmer.
Pyland’s Ascending is a lovely, sensitive, and romantic story that appreciates the value of family, tradition, trustworthiness, love of country, and love ever after. It’s a novel I’ll shelve with my other well-liked “will read again” titles.
In Ascending, Nicole Pyland takes readers overseas to the small island kingdom of St. Rais, between Norway and Greenland, where New York City journalist Palmer Honeycutt is taking a break from her job and her eroding nine-month-old relationship.
Just as her vacation is winding down, a terrible tragedy rocks the royal family. Palmer’s editor assigns her to the story, extending her stay in St. Rais indefinitely and giving her the opportunity to report a possible Pulitzer-worthy story.
Palmer first must figure out how an American reporter can earn an interview with the new Queen, who only days before was fifth in line to the throne as Her Royal Highness Princess Elizabeth Antonia Victoria Louise Hanover — or more familiarly, Elizabeth or Lizzy.
Palmer not only has to secure the confidence of a bereft woman who never expected to occupy the throne, she also must navigate the tight security surrounding the Queen.
Palmer’s integrity and likability soon earns her an audience with Elizabeth, whom she finds smart, considerate beautiful, and concerned for her country. Lizzy, in turn, finds an understanding, effervescent, and ethical friend in Palmer.
Pyland’s Ascending is a lovely, sensitive, and romantic story that appreciates the value of family, tradition, trustworthiness, love of country, and love ever after. It’s a novel I’ll shelve with my other well-liked “will read again” titles.
March 24, 2023
This is the first book in the new Royalty Series. I must confess I'm not usually one for royalty themed romances, but when it's written by Pyland, it's a different story.
Ascending is set around a European monarchy in the fictional country of St Rais. The country was described in such great detail, it deserves its own mention - and I wish I could go visit it!
Princess Elizabeth (Lizzy) is fifth in line for the throne when a terrible tragedy leaves only her and her younger sister, Victoria. Elizabeth is then thrust into the new and unexpected position of being Queen.
Meanwhile, Palmer Honeycutt is a US reporter holidaying in St Rais when everything happens - and her boss wants her to stay and grab the story.
Get ready for a great slow burn between Lizzy and Palmer. From their very first meeting, the chemistry is Just. So. Good. I liked the slower pace, and it never once felt like it was dragging. It was just a really sweet journey to following along with.
What I also loved with this book was every character had such strong personalities that shone through - no matter how small their part in the book.
Highly recommend this cosy read. If you're like me, you'll zoom through it in a couple of days!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ascending is set around a European monarchy in the fictional country of St Rais. The country was described in such great detail, it deserves its own mention - and I wish I could go visit it!
Princess Elizabeth (Lizzy) is fifth in line for the throne when a terrible tragedy leaves only her and her younger sister, Victoria. Elizabeth is then thrust into the new and unexpected position of being Queen.
Meanwhile, Palmer Honeycutt is a US reporter holidaying in St Rais when everything happens - and her boss wants her to stay and grab the story.
Get ready for a great slow burn between Lizzy and Palmer. From their very first meeting, the chemistry is Just. So. Good. I liked the slower pace, and it never once felt like it was dragging. It was just a really sweet journey to following along with.
What I also loved with this book was every character had such strong personalities that shone through - no matter how small their part in the book.
Highly recommend this cosy read. If you're like me, you'll zoom through it in a couple of days!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 25, 2023
Absolutely marvelous
Ascending is absolutely marvelous. I was completely enthralled with the story from the very first page. Elizabeth loses her family and she’s not sure how to run her country. Palmer, an American journalist just happens to be on vacation when St. Rais learns that the king is lost.
Palmer is able to learn a lot about Elizabeth through her interviews that really aren’t interviews. The interviews are like talking with a really good friend.
Here’s my favorite scene in the book:
“I apologize for the security,” she said, motioning Palmer to sit.
“It’s fine. I get it. I didn’t mind the strip search.”
“The what?” Elizabeth asked, wide-eyed.
Palmer laughed as she continued to stand next to the chair.
“I’m kidding,” she replied. “Metal detectors and a light pat-down. I’ve had worse at the airport.”
“You scared me,” Elizabeth replied.
Sorry, I thought it was funny.”
“You’re not sitting down,” Elizabeth noted.
“Neither are you.”
“You read the rules, didn’t you?” she asked.
“I did. Rebecca sent them to me.”
Palmer and Elizabeth have such an easy going dynamic that is just awesome to see throughout the story. Another well written story by Nicole Pyland. Another home run!
Ascending is absolutely marvelous. I was completely enthralled with the story from the very first page. Elizabeth loses her family and she’s not sure how to run her country. Palmer, an American journalist just happens to be on vacation when St. Rais learns that the king is lost.
Palmer is able to learn a lot about Elizabeth through her interviews that really aren’t interviews. The interviews are like talking with a really good friend.
Here’s my favorite scene in the book:
“I apologize for the security,” she said, motioning Palmer to sit.
“It’s fine. I get it. I didn’t mind the strip search.”
“The what?” Elizabeth asked, wide-eyed.
Palmer laughed as she continued to stand next to the chair.
“I’m kidding,” she replied. “Metal detectors and a light pat-down. I’ve had worse at the airport.”
“You scared me,” Elizabeth replied.
Sorry, I thought it was funny.”
“You’re not sitting down,” Elizabeth noted.
“Neither are you.”
“You read the rules, didn’t you?” she asked.
“I did. Rebecca sent them to me.”
Palmer and Elizabeth have such an easy going dynamic that is just awesome to see throughout the story. Another well written story by Nicole Pyland. Another home run!
March 29, 2023
This is the first of a new series by Nicole Pyland. It's a modern royal romance. I typically do not usually read books about royals, but I found myself interested in the traditions and expectations.
The book starts off with a horrible tragedy where 5th in line to the throne Elizabeth is thrust into the role that she never wanted. She was living a quiet life pursuing an advanced Physics degree.
Palmer was on vacation wanting a break from everything when the tragedy struck. She's a reporter and ultimately gets to meet the new Queen and they cautiously get to know one another. This is a slow burn as Palmer and Elizabeth dance around, and then ultimately trust each other.
Nicole Pyland does a superb job in developing the characters, both very cautious but very believable in how they act with each other as well as the other characters.
Nicole keeps taking on different but very creative themes, and keeps writing fantastic books! Nicole has an ability to make you root for the characters. The characters are relatable and there are so many emotions in Ascending.
This is a great start to this new series. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. Highly recommended!
The book starts off with a horrible tragedy where 5th in line to the throne Elizabeth is thrust into the role that she never wanted. She was living a quiet life pursuing an advanced Physics degree.
Palmer was on vacation wanting a break from everything when the tragedy struck. She's a reporter and ultimately gets to meet the new Queen and they cautiously get to know one another. This is a slow burn as Palmer and Elizabeth dance around, and then ultimately trust each other.
Nicole Pyland does a superb job in developing the characters, both very cautious but very believable in how they act with each other as well as the other characters.
Nicole keeps taking on different but very creative themes, and keeps writing fantastic books! Nicole has an ability to make you root for the characters. The characters are relatable and there are so many emotions in Ascending.
This is a great start to this new series. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. Highly recommended!
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