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Bastian: A Crown Prince Chronicle Novel
SHE'S A SCHOLAR. SURELY, SHE CAN RESIST A PRINCE...
Alana Velkan wasn't your typical historian. After an accidental fire to her department garners attention from the country's most eligible bachelor, Alana finds herself making every excuse not to attend the grand reopening ceremony. When the two accidentally bump into one another, she becomes smitten.
Bastian had it all: good looks, money…oh, and the word Prince in front of his name. His schedule keeps him busy with engagements and speeches. When his duties make him the center of attention, Bastian is used to the women fawning over him—all except for the standoffish archivist.
After Bastian and Alana partake in a verbal sparring match, they are both left with confused, but intriguing feelings. Neither can deny the attraction they have to one another, but the stakes are high on both sides. Do they have what it takes to survive or are they doomed before they even begin?
Alana Velkan wasn't your typical historian. After an accidental fire to her department garners attention from the country's most eligible bachelor, Alana finds herself making every excuse not to attend the grand reopening ceremony. When the two accidentally bump into one another, she becomes smitten.
Bastian had it all: good looks, money…oh, and the word Prince in front of his name. His schedule keeps him busy with engagements and speeches. When his duties make him the center of attention, Bastian is used to the women fawning over him—all except for the standoffish archivist.
After Bastian and Alana partake in a verbal sparring match, they are both left with confused, but intriguing feelings. Neither can deny the attraction they have to one another, but the stakes are high on both sides. Do they have what it takes to survive or are they doomed before they even begin?
- GenresRomance
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2021
37 people want to read
About the author
Piper Collins
24 books95 followersPiper Collins writes contemporary suspense to modern day royals; her books are packed with humor, emotion and a whole lot of sexiness.
Piper lives in the heat of the south. She enjoys reading, writing and naps. When she's not doing any of those things, you can find her spending time with her husband, son and their springer spaniel, Fiona.
You can follow her on Instagram @piper.collins.author or on TikTok @authorpipercollins
Crown Prince Chronicle Novels
Book I: Bastian
Book II: Remy
Book III: Kasper
Will Power (a standalone romance)
Culture Shock (a standalone romcom)
The Sugarplum Fairy: A small town, fish out of water Christmas romantic comedy
Chrysus Defense Series
Book I: To Colombia, With Love
Book II: Jerks and Caicos
Piper lives in the heat of the south. She enjoys reading, writing and naps. When she's not doing any of those things, you can find her spending time with her husband, son and their springer spaniel, Fiona.
You can follow her on Instagram @piper.collins.author or on TikTok @authorpipercollins
Crown Prince Chronicle Novels
Book I: Bastian
Book II: Remy
Book III: Kasper
Will Power (a standalone romance)
Culture Shock (a standalone romcom)
The Sugarplum Fairy: A small town, fish out of water Christmas romantic comedy
Chrysus Defense Series
Book I: To Colombia, With Love
Book II: Jerks and Caicos
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 18, 2020
A truly magical story!
I kindly received an ARC from Piper in return for an honest review.
Alana is your typical 'girl next door' archivist. She loves her job and has her two best friends who she works with.
Then there is Prince Bastian aka Pompous Prince. Not your everyday stuck up royal.
Alana's workplace had a generous donation presented to them by said Prince, Alana and her friends expecting nothing more than the arrogant playboy that he had been made out to be in the media. What Alana didn't realise was this was the start of big things to come.
Bastian was infatuated with Alana the minute he set eyes on her. The media had his image completely wrong, he had a past of course, but that was a long time ago and he hadn't actually been on a date for four years. He pursued Alana, much to her distaste, finally accepting a date with him.
Alana realised quickly that she had unfairly judged the Pompous Prince afterall. And this was where the fairytale started for them...
There are some angsty twists and turns in this book but HEA.
It's the first book I have read from Piper Collins and won't be the last. Her writing is beautiful.
5 Stars from me!
I kindly received an ARC from Piper in return for an honest review.
Alana is your typical 'girl next door' archivist. She loves her job and has her two best friends who she works with.
Then there is Prince Bastian aka Pompous Prince. Not your everyday stuck up royal.
Alana's workplace had a generous donation presented to them by said Prince, Alana and her friends expecting nothing more than the arrogant playboy that he had been made out to be in the media. What Alana didn't realise was this was the start of big things to come.
Bastian was infatuated with Alana the minute he set eyes on her. The media had his image completely wrong, he had a past of course, but that was a long time ago and he hadn't actually been on a date for four years. He pursued Alana, much to her distaste, finally accepting a date with him.
Alana realised quickly that she had unfairly judged the Pompous Prince afterall. And this was where the fairytale started for them...
There are some angsty twists and turns in this book but HEA.
It's the first book I have read from Piper Collins and won't be the last. Her writing is beautiful.
5 Stars from me!
January 27, 2021
Reading has been a struggle lately, but I had no problems binge reading Bastian. I needed something fun and light, and this book certainly delivered!
August 29, 2020
Wow that Bastian, some of the things he says and does makes me wish for my own fairytale romance. A definite Prince Charming!
Love a good royal romance, and this one was amazing, the characters were interesting and the plot kept me engaged throughout. That ending 🤯
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!!
Love a good royal romance, and this one was amazing, the characters were interesting and the plot kept me engaged throughout. That ending 🤯
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!!
September 19, 2020
Bastian is the first book in Piper Collins new series called A Crown Prince Chronicle Novel. It was fast paced, sweet, funny, and it was so entertaining. Prince Bastian is charming, and his life is busy with engagements, but for the first time in his life he's ran into someone who's not fawning over him. Alana is expecting Bastian to be a pompous jerk, but he's anything but. I liked their back and forth banter, it was fun, and cute. Secondary characters were good too. This is my first novel I've read from this author, and I'm looking forward to reading more of her stories. Remy's story is next.
January 31, 2021
**Received an ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review**
Will Power tells the tale of Sloan Novak, a thirty something mother to a young boy Alex. Cue a mysterious court order arriving at her doorstep, summoning her Slovenia, to attend the will reading of an old family acquaintance in the next forty-eight hours.
Upon arriving, Sloane encounters Dario Nicolescu, the lone remaining descendant of Viktor Nicolescu, a former accountant and well-off bachelor looking for an early jump on a comfortable retirement. But Dario's plans are trampled when at the will reading his grandfather's estate is to be split between himself and Sloane.
Once the shock and confusion settle, both must come to an agreement with what to do with the manor and grounds that hold different values to both of them. deciding to work together towards a common goal both try to concentrate on the work at hanhand, denying that matters of obligation are becoming matters of the heart.
The plot and story was extremely well written and the characters loveable and pleasing to follow. The change between viewpoints was distinguishable and flowed smoothly from one into the other.
The plot was familiar and well used within the romance genre and yet original enough that it hooked me and deviated from the norm I have seen before. It was such a refreshing change of pace. As you can imagine the romance was a bit of a slow burn but was the perfect blend of heartwarming and spicy at the same time.
Full of twists and unexpected turns, love, family, and packed with heartwarming feelings, Will Power is one of the greatest, purest romance books I have read in the last two decades.
Will Power tells the tale of Sloan Novak, a thirty something mother to a young boy Alex. Cue a mysterious court order arriving at her doorstep, summoning her Slovenia, to attend the will reading of an old family acquaintance in the next forty-eight hours.
Upon arriving, Sloane encounters Dario Nicolescu, the lone remaining descendant of Viktor Nicolescu, a former accountant and well-off bachelor looking for an early jump on a comfortable retirement. But Dario's plans are trampled when at the will reading his grandfather's estate is to be split between himself and Sloane.
Once the shock and confusion settle, both must come to an agreement with what to do with the manor and grounds that hold different values to both of them. deciding to work together towards a common goal both try to concentrate on the work at hanhand, denying that matters of obligation are becoming matters of the heart.
The plot and story was extremely well written and the characters loveable and pleasing to follow. The change between viewpoints was distinguishable and flowed smoothly from one into the other.
The plot was familiar and well used within the romance genre and yet original enough that it hooked me and deviated from the norm I have seen before. It was such a refreshing change of pace. As you can imagine the romance was a bit of a slow burn but was the perfect blend of heartwarming and spicy at the same time.
Full of twists and unexpected turns, love, family, and packed with heartwarming feelings, Will Power is one of the greatest, purest romance books I have read in the last two decades.
August 6, 2020
This book was a true modern day fairy tale!! One between a smart nerdy commoner Alana and the handsome Prince Charming, Prince Bastian. We’re talking about a literal prince! It was beautifully written with such etiquette and charm and I was hooked from the very beginning! It was everything you’d want in a fairytale but with the sexy twist for us adults that love the intimate details. Alana meets Bastian when he comes to make a speech at the ribbon cutting of the newly renovated Devmont National Archives building that Alana works at, which suffered from a fire a few months prior. After a messy run in with the Prince and back and forth banter, Alana agrees to a date and the rest is history! But don’t be fooled, there’s always a twist!
January 12, 2021
Oh My Flipping Gosh. I love this book. Sloane is such a strong, sassy, and amazing woman, her son is a believable kid with hilarious banter skills, and the guy... readers, the guy!!! He's droolable. Definitely the kind of love interest that if I met him in real life, I'd put a ring on that man so fast. Will Power is a delightful romance and so well written that the memory of the characters lingered in my mind long after reading the book. If you like romance, you'll love Will Power.
January 13, 2021
OMG! This book is the sweetest! If you are in need of a light sweet steamy read this is for you! Sloane and Dario are so special! And Alex! We cannot forget that sweet, smart, energetic, food inhaler of a little boy! I loved every inch of this book! It had a few twists I wasn’t expecting and that ending!!!!! I did not see that coming! Sneaky little sneaks! The writing was really good, and I’m so excited to read what Piper Collins comes up with next!
August 30, 2020
Received this book as an ARC from the author and absolutely loved it. Such a different read than my usual but loved the take with royalty. Loved the fun banter and pet names along with sarcasm between the main characters. They were fun and charming. Can’t wait for more in this series!!
January 12, 2021
"Sloane Novak was a single mom with a quirky, energetic son. After a mysterious court order is delivered to her, she has no other choice than to attend a will reading in forty-eight hours. Deciding it’s in her best interest to go, she and her son trek halfway across the world to Slovenia.
Dario Nicolescu learned of his estranged grandfather’s passing a week ago. Being an only child gives him great hope that the entirety of his grandfather’s Slovenian manor will go to him. But when Sloane and her son show up, he learns that the house is to be split equally between them.
Once the confusion and shock settle, Dario and Sloane must decide what they will do with the manor that holds differing values to them. Striking a compromise in way of a business plan, the two work together towards a common goal. Only, it’s much more than either bargained for. What will they do when matters of obligation turn to matters of the heart?"
Dario had been burned from a previous called off engagement and held himself back.
Both Sloane & Dario had been asked to attend a Will reading from a mutual friend/family member. Neither of them expected there to be another person involved in the reading let alone have to share the country house in Slovenia that was left to them. This was an inconvenience for Dario as he had his own dreams and plans, but from the minute he laid eyes on Sloane, he knew he wanted her.
Was it possible to mix business with pleasure?
Would she be interested in him or did she want to concentrate on brining up her son?
This was a refreshing read.
I really loved the fact Sloane was a single mum due to the unfortunate passing of her husband. She was strong, intelligent and confident.
This story was thorough and very well written!
Dario Nicolescu learned of his estranged grandfather’s passing a week ago. Being an only child gives him great hope that the entirety of his grandfather’s Slovenian manor will go to him. But when Sloane and her son show up, he learns that the house is to be split equally between them.
Once the confusion and shock settle, Dario and Sloane must decide what they will do with the manor that holds differing values to them. Striking a compromise in way of a business plan, the two work together towards a common goal. Only, it’s much more than either bargained for. What will they do when matters of obligation turn to matters of the heart?"
Dario had been burned from a previous called off engagement and held himself back.
Both Sloane & Dario had been asked to attend a Will reading from a mutual friend/family member. Neither of them expected there to be another person involved in the reading let alone have to share the country house in Slovenia that was left to them. This was an inconvenience for Dario as he had his own dreams and plans, but from the minute he laid eyes on Sloane, he knew he wanted her.
Was it possible to mix business with pleasure?
Would she be interested in him or did she want to concentrate on brining up her son?
This was a refreshing read.
I really loved the fact Sloane was a single mum due to the unfortunate passing of her husband. She was strong, intelligent and confident.
This story was thorough and very well written!
August 12, 2020
This is the first part of The Crown Prince Series.
Bastian seems to be arrogant and a womanizer but when Alana gets to know him, she realizes that he is anything but that. She soon falls in love with her prince charming who is actually a prince.
The story is cute and charming. It is like a modern day fairy tale romance which with charming characters and steamy scenes. This is a dreamy romance novel which is recommended for readers who like this genre.
Personal Take:
I loved Alana's character. She was smart and nerdy. The story was so dreamy
Bastian seems to be arrogant and a womanizer but when Alana gets to know him, she realizes that he is anything but that. She soon falls in love with her prince charming who is actually a prince.
The story is cute and charming. It is like a modern day fairy tale romance which with charming characters and steamy scenes. This is a dreamy romance novel which is recommended for readers who like this genre.
Personal Take:
I loved Alana's character. She was smart and nerdy. The story was so dreamy
February 7, 2021
Cutest story ever!
Thank you so much Piper for letting me read this book early!
Wow. Everyone should know that I love a slow burn romance - and this one is no exception.
There’s a few reasons why I loved this story.
First of all, it wasn’t rushed, at all! The story flowed nicely and the relationship between Dario and Sloane grew organically and felt so natural - a sign of great writing and storytelling.
Next is the characters. Alex is one of my favourite characters that I’ve read in a while! His little quirks and constant eating is something so relatable - plus he’s the most adorable thing. Saying everything that comes into his mind, regardless of what it is.
The relationships between characters is beautiful. Sloane and Dario are perfect together, their feelings sizzle off the page. But they’re also great apart, each character is well written and good in their own right - something I absolutely LOVE!
This is a perfect standalone romance for a rainy day. Set in a country house in Europe, full of revelations, drama and of course - steamy relationships. This is one you don’t want to miss😍
It’s out next week, I can’t wait for you all to read it!💃🏼
Thank you so much Piper for letting me read this book early!
Wow. Everyone should know that I love a slow burn romance - and this one is no exception.
There’s a few reasons why I loved this story.
First of all, it wasn’t rushed, at all! The story flowed nicely and the relationship between Dario and Sloane grew organically and felt so natural - a sign of great writing and storytelling.
Next is the characters. Alex is one of my favourite characters that I’ve read in a while! His little quirks and constant eating is something so relatable - plus he’s the most adorable thing. Saying everything that comes into his mind, regardless of what it is.
The relationships between characters is beautiful. Sloane and Dario are perfect together, their feelings sizzle off the page. But they’re also great apart, each character is well written and good in their own right - something I absolutely LOVE!
This is a perfect standalone romance for a rainy day. Set in a country house in Europe, full of revelations, drama and of course - steamy relationships. This is one you don’t want to miss😍
It’s out next week, I can’t wait for you all to read it!💃🏼
February 7, 2021
First of all, thank you Piper Collins for giving me the chance to read this beautiful story! I enjoyed it more than you know. Being an Eastern European girl, it was such a pleasent surprise to read a story that takes place in Slovenia, an European country, especially since the name Nicolescu is also so common in my country Romania.
I haven't read a slow burn story that I enjoyed so much in a very long time. Dario and Sloane's story is beutifully written, their love is not rushed, they take time knowing each other and when they collide, they're magnificent. I loved the plot, the characters, Dario is not what he seems and I liked that a lot, Sloane is an amazing woman, Alex is a great kid, plus the little details of the manor, all these made a sweet and beautiful story.
Dario and Sloane's intimate scenes are so sensual, so erotic, so perfectly done, they're incredible together.
Even though I know I repeat myself, I enjoyed this story a lot and I recommed it to everyone!
I haven't read a slow burn story that I enjoyed so much in a very long time. Dario and Sloane's story is beutifully written, their love is not rushed, they take time knowing each other and when they collide, they're magnificent. I loved the plot, the characters, Dario is not what he seems and I liked that a lot, Sloane is an amazing woman, Alex is a great kid, plus the little details of the manor, all these made a sweet and beautiful story.
Dario and Sloane's intimate scenes are so sensual, so erotic, so perfectly done, they're incredible together.
Even though I know I repeat myself, I enjoyed this story a lot and I recommed it to everyone!
January 12, 2021
True love knows no limits.
I absolutely adore this new story from Piper Collins, full of unique relationships and realistic struggles with which many people can resonate. What I really appreciated was that the two main characters come from different parts of the world, but find themselves lost in a connection that defeats all power of time and distance.
When a will reading leads Sloane to the beautiful Slovenia countryside, she and Dario must work together to manage a manor that was left to them both. This obligation turns into something more as the two grow close, dragging the reader along through a beautifully written, slow-burn romance.
The characters are charming, the plotline is intriguing, and Collins does a phenomenal job - as always - providing that sexual tension we all crave in a romance novel. Can't wait to see what else she's got up her sleeve!
I absolutely adore this new story from Piper Collins, full of unique relationships and realistic struggles with which many people can resonate. What I really appreciated was that the two main characters come from different parts of the world, but find themselves lost in a connection that defeats all power of time and distance.
When a will reading leads Sloane to the beautiful Slovenia countryside, she and Dario must work together to manage a manor that was left to them both. This obligation turns into something more as the two grow close, dragging the reader along through a beautifully written, slow-burn romance.
The characters are charming, the plotline is intriguing, and Collins does a phenomenal job - as always - providing that sexual tension we all crave in a romance novel. Can't wait to see what else she's got up her sleeve!
February 23, 2021
Sloane and Dario must come together to manage a Manor that was left for them both. They are from different parts of the world, which once together opened up a door to welcome the chaos they were never quite ready for. Soon blooms a slow-burn romance. It was so much more than that though! Sloane also has a nine-year-old son which for me made this story that much more delicate. She & Dario complimented each other so nicely, even through the struggles of their new reality. I loved being transported to Slovenia and the details of the Manor were charming. This screams hallmark movie but with a whole lot more depth. The steamy scenes were fire! I normally do not do well with slow burn romance but this was written beautifully and never felt rushed. I enjoyed my time with this book!
For all of my e-reader pals out there, pick this one up on Kindle Unlimited!
For all of my e-reader pals out there, pick this one up on Kindle Unlimited!
January 30, 2021
Wow, just wow! Will Power by @piper.collins.author was a fantastic book! I cannot say enough how grateful I am to be a ARC reader for her. Will Power was a romantic, suspenseful, thrilling, and intriguing book. Both of the main characters had personalities complemented by being raised in two opposite ends of the world. There were twists I didn’t see coming and the sex scenes were so well done! I could not put this book down and can’t wait to have it on my shelf (as well as all of Her other books)! I believe that Piper is becoming an author akin to Catherine Anderson in the romance novel genre :-) #arcreader #willpowernovel #readerforlife #bibliophile #bestromancenovel #ihaveabookhangover #soinlove withreading #powerfulfemalecharacters #Romance #selfcare
January 22, 2021
What can I say? This book has it all! Romance, relatable characters, funny moments and an even greater ending! It was so sweet I can’t stop smiling :) I received this book as an early ARC for an honest review but just by reading the plot I knew I was in for an emotional ride with this. Also, it might just be me, I couldn’t help but imagine Andrea as Emily Gilmore from Gilmore Girls (I freaking love that woman) and that made the book even better for me.
September 7, 2020
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 FIVE STARS FOR MY FIRST ROYAL-ROMANCE READ!!! I LOVED THIS BOOK!
I was generously provided an ARC of this book by the author! When i was informed that it was a royal romance story, i said my okay, even if i was a bit skeptical. Growing up and listening about royal families across Europe and overall being a part of our growing-up, i feared that it would be an "oh-so-proper" royal romance, with curtsying all the way, royal balls, etc etc. I can honestly say i really, really, really loved this book! It is so different to the books i usually read, but it didn't fall short for my liking! 🔥💕🔥
Bastian's and Alana's story was so sweet and hot. What started as a dislike (from her part), moved to love and lust and passion. Bastian was everything someone could ask for. Gorgeous (per Alana's descriptions), thoughtful, caring, devoted, funny, charming, sexy, etc etc and the list goes on. Alana was so interesting, i really liked that her character was not smitten immediately by His Royal Highness and told him off a couple of times.
Do you ever wonder how real-life royal members are with each other? If they are warm with their family members? If they are hands-on parents? If they fight with their partners and if they yell and throw things out of frustration? If they text or sext? If they have wild, rough sex with dirty-talking, and lust and the same things us "commoners" like? Well, of course we might never find out about them, but this book let's us imagine what it might be like dating a real-life prince. So, this book does not only show you what we know about princes (e.g. that they have people at their disposal 24/7, security, protection, they are easy targets, etc), but a more inside view (even a fictional one) of their more private lives. And this inside view was HOT! and STEAMY! and YUMMY! 🔥🔥🔥
I loved Bastian's wild side! And i loved that Alana loved him for being Bastian and not His Royal Highness!
I loved so many things about this book, and i loved that i loved it, because it makes me more likely to read more royal romances as well.
FIVE STARS from me!!!!!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I was generously provided an ARC of this book by the author! When i was informed that it was a royal romance story, i said my okay, even if i was a bit skeptical. Growing up and listening about royal families across Europe and overall being a part of our growing-up, i feared that it would be an "oh-so-proper" royal romance, with curtsying all the way, royal balls, etc etc. I can honestly say i really, really, really loved this book! It is so different to the books i usually read, but it didn't fall short for my liking! 🔥💕🔥
Bastian's and Alana's story was so sweet and hot. What started as a dislike (from her part), moved to love and lust and passion. Bastian was everything someone could ask for. Gorgeous (per Alana's descriptions), thoughtful, caring, devoted, funny, charming, sexy, etc etc and the list goes on. Alana was so interesting, i really liked that her character was not smitten immediately by His Royal Highness and told him off a couple of times.
Do you ever wonder how real-life royal members are with each other? If they are warm with their family members? If they are hands-on parents? If they fight with their partners and if they yell and throw things out of frustration? If they text or sext? If they have wild, rough sex with dirty-talking, and lust and the same things us "commoners" like? Well, of course we might never find out about them, but this book let's us imagine what it might be like dating a real-life prince. So, this book does not only show you what we know about princes (e.g. that they have people at their disposal 24/7, security, protection, they are easy targets, etc), but a more inside view (even a fictional one) of their more private lives. And this inside view was HOT! and STEAMY! and YUMMY! 🔥🔥🔥
I loved Bastian's wild side! And i loved that Alana loved him for being Bastian and not His Royal Highness!
I loved so many things about this book, and i loved that i loved it, because it makes me more likely to read more royal romances as well.
FIVE STARS from me!!!!!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
July 24, 2020
𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐀𝐍
As little girls I’m sure 95% of us dreamed of becoming a princess or meeting their “Prince Charming”. Growing up you realize that idealization was pretty far fetched. This book was the epitome of what I dreamed for when I was a child.
Bastian is a crowned prince usually construed as a playboy partier who constantly has a different gorgeous bombshell on his arm. But what Lana soon realizes is you just can’t judge a book by its cover.
Lana meets Prince Bastian at a cutting ceremony at her place of work. She had already made up her mind about the type of person Bastian was and wanted absolutely no part in it. Bastian came crashing into her life (literally) and soon had Lana swooning.
Collins offered to send me a paperback of Bastian in exchange for an honest review and I’m so thankful that she did because I love her writing style. It flows smoothly and has a way of keeping you invested in the story she’s telling. I cannot wait for more books in this series!
As little girls I’m sure 95% of us dreamed of becoming a princess or meeting their “Prince Charming”. Growing up you realize that idealization was pretty far fetched. This book was the epitome of what I dreamed for when I was a child.
Bastian is a crowned prince usually construed as a playboy partier who constantly has a different gorgeous bombshell on his arm. But what Lana soon realizes is you just can’t judge a book by its cover.
Lana meets Prince Bastian at a cutting ceremony at her place of work. She had already made up her mind about the type of person Bastian was and wanted absolutely no part in it. Bastian came crashing into her life (literally) and soon had Lana swooning.
Collins offered to send me a paperback of Bastian in exchange for an honest review and I’m so thankful that she did because I love her writing style. It flows smoothly and has a way of keeping you invested in the story she’s telling. I cannot wait for more books in this series!
April 7, 2023
4 stars
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
single mom, forced proximity, found family
This was my second romance by this author and my first audiobook for her too so with that being said I really liked this story! Had it not been in audiobook format the story rating would have been the same for me. The story though predictable and maybe cheesy for some I found to be bearably cute (that little mischievous hungry little boy). The plot twists toward the end was like whoa but a still great way to end this love story.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
single mom, forced proximity, found family
This was my second romance by this author and my first audiobook for her too so with that being said I really liked this story! Had it not been in audiobook format the story rating would have been the same for me. The story though predictable and maybe cheesy for some I found to be bearably cute (that little mischievous hungry little boy). The plot twists toward the end was like whoa but a still great way to end this love story.
February 12, 2021
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Sloan Novak is a social media manager working in Seattle's hospitality industry. She focuses her time on online marketing and her nine-year-old son, Alex. One day, an odd visitor came to her doorstep and left a "legal summons" by an unknown person in Slovenia in two days!
Dario Nicolescu is an accountant who has plans. He is the typical Type A personality that is already ten steps ahead of anyone who is starting at one. He was not close to his grandfather but expected that everything would end up his way - but not really.
Viktor Nicolescu II's will was a curious one. Everything seems to be standard except for keeping the family mansion, Nicolescu Manor (the "Manor") within the family but endowing half of it to a "stranger." How does "halving" an estate work? What will they decide to do with such a vast estate to take care of if they do decide to keep it?
Written from Dario and Sloan's POVs, the readers can read into the main characters' thoughts, beliefs, and insecurities regarding "sharing space" and how to make their predicament work. The scenic descriptions were colorful and vivid. The scenarios are believable and relatable.
Firstly, the storyline developed well due to the location being far from "possible immediate conflicts." The Manor was in a more rural area of Slovenia, where both characters discover their "new property" and surroundings better. As such discovery, they start looking into getting to understand each other better. That "bubble" or space is critical for both characters to better decide on what to do with Nicolescu Manor and its people.
Secondly, the characters developed and helped each other through their life experiences then later together.
Both Sloan and Darion have their share of heartache before meeting each other. They learned to protect their hearts and their family (a son, in Sloan's case).
Sloan had to face adversity unexpectedly early on in her marriage and mature based on her experiences of "what not to do" as a parent when she became a single parent. She chose to focus her efforts on her work and her son as she lived her life as a single income parent in Seattle.
Sloan chose to sustain herself and her son through her hard-earned income even if there were options for her. She is an admirably strong and mature character - someone readers will surely love.
Darion may look like he had an easy life, but underneath the surface, there were even more issues that ranged from his family to personal life choices. Instead, he would prefer to focus his time on his work and growing his money to retire early. It is sad because he is still relatively young to give up on connecting with people and his childhood home, the Manor. I felt for him a lot since he seemed lost and did not realize he was losing out a lot.
Darion and Sloan's slow-burn pace is appropriate as it seems that they need to learn how to trust each other to start their endeavor. The mutual respect and understanding from the start have only flourished as the book progressed and everything felt rationally correct. I was happy to see that Sloan, even a bit younger, shared her philosophy and experience to help Darion work on his problems and later tell her about them. It is also wonderful to see that Darion connected and "step-up" in protecting Sloan when it came time.
I love the supporting characters in the book - from Alex, the staff, and even the lawyer who came to deliver the summons. Each one had his/her purpose, and they all shined in their own right. They provide much comic relief and sometimes necessary humor to the story.
Lastly, the drama at the end was out everything!
A climactic scene of the past colliding with the future will surely take you by surprise! Things had to implode when the "outside pressures" converged into the Manor to resolve the "issues" plaguing both main characters.
I want to emphasize that I was significantly affected by the shock factor as the rest of the characters present. This action was a jaw-dropping moment but a deserved one. I love the author's slow clue-dropping connection from the start that links it well to the end. It was excellent in 'rounding out' the story!
I highly recommend Will Power for readers who love their slow-burn, second chance themes, exploring new foreign lands, strong and mature role-model characters, and sweet redemption in the end.
It is a brilliant book about respect, trust, redemption, and connection. There is a lot of implied self-discovery, internal acceptance/realizations, fated partners, and "taking chances" in the book that comes with ease. It flows well with each of the scenes for an ending I find sneakily brilliant!
This book may be my first encounter with the author's work, but it will surely not be my last. I am excited to see more from her soon.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Sloan Novak is a social media manager working in Seattle's hospitality industry. She focuses her time on online marketing and her nine-year-old son, Alex. One day, an odd visitor came to her doorstep and left a "legal summons" by an unknown person in Slovenia in two days!
Dario Nicolescu is an accountant who has plans. He is the typical Type A personality that is already ten steps ahead of anyone who is starting at one. He was not close to his grandfather but expected that everything would end up his way - but not really.
Viktor Nicolescu II's will was a curious one. Everything seems to be standard except for keeping the family mansion, Nicolescu Manor (the "Manor") within the family but endowing half of it to a "stranger." How does "halving" an estate work? What will they decide to do with such a vast estate to take care of if they do decide to keep it?
Written from Dario and Sloan's POVs, the readers can read into the main characters' thoughts, beliefs, and insecurities regarding "sharing space" and how to make their predicament work. The scenic descriptions were colorful and vivid. The scenarios are believable and relatable.
Firstly, the storyline developed well due to the location being far from "possible immediate conflicts." The Manor was in a more rural area of Slovenia, where both characters discover their "new property" and surroundings better. As such discovery, they start looking into getting to understand each other better. That "bubble" or space is critical for both characters to better decide on what to do with Nicolescu Manor and its people.
Secondly, the characters developed and helped each other through their life experiences then later together.
Both Sloan and Darion have their share of heartache before meeting each other. They learned to protect their hearts and their family (a son, in Sloan's case).
Sloan had to face adversity unexpectedly early on in her marriage and mature based on her experiences of "what not to do" as a parent when she became a single parent. She chose to focus her efforts on her work and her son as she lived her life as a single income parent in Seattle.
Sloan chose to sustain herself and her son through her hard-earned income even if there were options for her. She is an admirably strong and mature character - someone readers will surely love.
Darion may look like he had an easy life, but underneath the surface, there were even more issues that ranged from his family to personal life choices. Instead, he would prefer to focus his time on his work and growing his money to retire early. It is sad because he is still relatively young to give up on connecting with people and his childhood home, the Manor. I felt for him a lot since he seemed lost and did not realize he was losing out a lot.
Darion and Sloan's slow-burn pace is appropriate as it seems that they need to learn how to trust each other to start their endeavor. The mutual respect and understanding from the start have only flourished as the book progressed and everything felt rationally correct. I was happy to see that Sloan, even a bit younger, shared her philosophy and experience to help Darion work on his problems and later tell her about them. It is also wonderful to see that Darion connected and "step-up" in protecting Sloan when it came time.
I love the supporting characters in the book - from Alex, the staff, and even the lawyer who came to deliver the summons. Each one had his/her purpose, and they all shined in their own right. They provide much comic relief and sometimes necessary humor to the story.
Lastly, the drama at the end was out everything!
A climactic scene of the past colliding with the future will surely take you by surprise! Things had to implode when the "outside pressures" converged into the Manor to resolve the "issues" plaguing both main characters.
I want to emphasize that I was significantly affected by the shock factor as the rest of the characters present. This action was a jaw-dropping moment but a deserved one. I love the author's slow clue-dropping connection from the start that links it well to the end. It was excellent in 'rounding out' the story!
I highly recommend Will Power for readers who love their slow-burn, second chance themes, exploring new foreign lands, strong and mature role-model characters, and sweet redemption in the end.
It is a brilliant book about respect, trust, redemption, and connection. There is a lot of implied self-discovery, internal acceptance/realizations, fated partners, and "taking chances" in the book that comes with ease. It flows well with each of the scenes for an ending I find sneakily brilliant!
This book may be my first encounter with the author's work, but it will surely not be my last. I am excited to see more from her soon.
December 6, 2022
Reading all the reviews, I really want to read the book. Cannot wait to read it.
March 18, 2022
"It took mere seconds to be physically attracted to her, minutes to be drawn to her strength and intelligence and only days before my heart had known what it wanted."
The story is about love, self-discovery, trust and taking chances in life. it's well-written, the environmenal descriptions are beautiful and the change between viewpoints was distinguished and flowed smoothly. The plot and the characters felt real. Like this actually can happened to you if your lucky enough to meet a steamy slovenian ;)
Will Power is a slow burn with a perfect blend between romance and spicy. Piper Collins does a great job creating that sexual tension we all want in a romance.
I really enjoyed the twist at the end. I only wish that it could have been elaborated a little bit more. I normally have a hard time finishing a slow burn romance but this one was written beautifully.
So if you love to read a modern fairy tale with beautiful environmental descriptions that will slowly crawl under your skin then Will Power is for you!!
The story is about love, self-discovery, trust and taking chances in life. it's well-written, the environmenal descriptions are beautiful and the change between viewpoints was distinguished and flowed smoothly. The plot and the characters felt real. Like this actually can happened to you if your lucky enough to meet a steamy slovenian ;)
Will Power is a slow burn with a perfect blend between romance and spicy. Piper Collins does a great job creating that sexual tension we all want in a romance.
I really enjoyed the twist at the end. I only wish that it could have been elaborated a little bit more. I normally have a hard time finishing a slow burn romance but this one was written beautifully.
So if you love to read a modern fairy tale with beautiful environmental descriptions that will slowly crawl under your skin then Will Power is for you!!
February 12, 2021
Collins has done something pretty amazing in her latest novel. She’s created a modern fairy tale where, despite its lovely, dreamlike perfection, it’s seems entirely plausible that a widowed American woman can inherit a manor and find love in what might be the most romantic setting on Earth. This is escapism at its finest.
While I loved the old world details of the Slovenia, the nerdy cinnamonroll hero, Dario, and his pragmatic match, Sloane, my favorite thing about the book was Alex, Sloane’s precocious, outgoing, 9-going-on-35 year old son. I rarely enjoy children traipsing through my romance novels, so the fact that Alex was my favorite aspect says a lot. He added levity and realism that heightened the fantasy vacation premise.
February 12, 2021
When writer decide to place her book in some „exotic“ little country in the MIDDLE OF EUROPE, she should at least google common local names and surnames given her characters. So: Dario Nicolescu. Romanian. Not Slovenian. There are differences - geographic, ethnic and all other kinds. Hey, today the world is a small place. We, exotic people from the MIDDLE OF EUROPE read books in English, order them from Amazon, have Kindles,... These kinds of things are annoying. Don't write without any research.
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