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Royal and Ruthless #6
A Royal Without Rules
Prins Patricio is de meest verdorven man van het vorstendom Kitzinia - misschien wel van de hele wereld. En nu moet zij, Adriana, hem uit de roddelbladen zien te weren tot de bruiloft van zijn broer? Met zijn schandelijke affaires houdt hij in zijn eentje alle paparazzi aan het werk!Tot overmaat van ramp lijkt de verleidelijke prins niets leuker te vinden dan haar tegen de haren in strijken. Maar buiten het zicht van de camera's vangt ze soms een glimp op van de man áchter de achteloze façade. Waardoor ze zich steeds vaker afvraagt of hij wel de bad boy is die iedereen in hem ziet...
192 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published July 23, 2013
19 people are currently reading
619 people want to read
About the author
Caitlin Crews
1,094 books595 followersCaitlin Crews discovered her first romance novel at the age of twelve, in a bargain bin at the local five and dime. It involved swashbuckling pirates, grand adventures, a heroine with rustling skirts and a mind of her own, and a seriously mouthwatering and masterful hero. The book (the title of which remains lost in the mists of time) made a serious impression. Caitlin was immediately smitten with romances and romance heroes, to the detriment of her middle school social life. And so began her life-long love affair with romance novels, many of which she insists on keeping near her at all times, thus creating a fire hazard of love wherever she lives.
Caitlin has made her home in places as far-flung as York, England and Atlanta, Georgia. She was raised near New York City, and fell in love with London on her first visit when she was a teenager. She has backpacked in Zimbabwe, been on safari in Botswana, and visited tiny villages in Namibia. She has, while visiting the place in question, declared her intention to live in Prague, Dublin, Paris, Athens, Nice, the Greek Islands, Rome, Venice, and/or any of the Hawaiian islands. Writing about exotic places seems like the next best thing to actually moving there.
She currently lives in Oregon with her animator/comic book artist husband and their menagerie of ridiculous animals.
Caitlin has made her home in places as far-flung as York, England and Atlanta, Georgia. She was raised near New York City, and fell in love with London on her first visit when she was a teenager. She has backpacked in Zimbabwe, been on safari in Botswana, and visited tiny villages in Namibia. She has, while visiting the place in question, declared her intention to live in Prague, Dublin, Paris, Athens, Nice, the Greek Islands, Rome, Venice, and/or any of the Hawaiian islands. Writing about exotic places seems like the next best thing to actually moving there.
She currently lives in Oregon with her animator/comic book artist husband and their menagerie of ridiculous animals.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 27, 2013
Prince Pato is a playboy and considered to be a disgrace to the Crown. Fortunately he is only ‘the spare’ as his brother is the Crown Prince so the public love his roguish behaviour but are thankful he will not become King. Adriana is his brother’s assistant who has been assigned to Pato for several weeks to keep his behaviour in check during final negotiations between the Crown Prince and Princess Lissette and subsequent wedding goes ahead. At first it would seem that they didn’t like each other but then of course the sparks soon fly between them.
I liked this and thought it rated a solid 3.5 stars and maybe my arm could have been twisted a little to give it 4 stars but then we got to the end which was a bit of a disappointment which made me reconsider and downgrade to 3 stars. The reasons Pato gave for being a playboy and disgrace to the Crown was sort of ridiculous, but hey I could have ignored that as this is Harlequin land after all! In fact I enjoyed the end romance between the couple and loved that Pato openly admitted his love for her but what I want to know is, where was the epilogue?!!....This story screamed out for one but unfortunately the reader is left disappointed, we don’t know what happens in the future. I don’t want to give too much away as you can read the story yourself but it is all left open, we have no idea if Pato’s brother Lenz (The Crown Prince) marries the ice Princess and how that pans out, and how long before he becomes King which will then finally allow Pato and Adriana to be together and to settle down and get married.
There is no indication that there will be another story by Ms Crews that will give us some of those answers but I personally think that Lenz’s story would be quite an interesting one!
ARC kindly supplied by Harlequin via Netgalley
I liked this and thought it rated a solid 3.5 stars and maybe my arm could have been twisted a little to give it 4 stars but then we got to the end which was a bit of a disappointment which made me reconsider and downgrade to 3 stars. The reasons Pato gave for being a playboy and disgrace to the Crown was sort of ridiculous, but hey I could have ignored that as this is Harlequin land after all! In fact I enjoyed the end romance between the couple and loved that Pato openly admitted his love for her but what I want to know is, where was the epilogue?!!....This story screamed out for one but unfortunately the reader is left disappointed, we don’t know what happens in the future. I don’t want to give too much away as you can read the story yourself but it is all left open, we have no idea if Pato’s brother Lenz (The Crown Prince) marries the ice Princess and how that pans out, and how long before he becomes King which will then finally allow Pato and Adriana to be together and to settle down and get married.
There is no indication that there will be another story by Ms Crews that will give us some of those answers but I personally think that Lenz’s story would be quite an interesting one!
ARC kindly supplied by Harlequin via Netgalley
July 9, 2013
For a Harlequin Presents this book was fantastic. The heroine is considered a whore by everyone because many women in her family had shady affairs with members of the royal family. Adrianna is the royal PA to hero's brother the King and very much in love with him.
She would do anything for him even play the nanny to his notorious playboy brother Pato. Her job is to prevent him from causing another sexual scandal and disgracing the King just before his upcoming wedding. Originally she hates her assignment. She wants nothing to do with a womanizing douche with no morals or values.
But Pato isn't the superficial womanizer Adrianna thinks. He has lots of secrets and I must admit I didn't expect to find so much mystery and intrigue surrounding him and his family. I'm glad Adrianna never gave up on him once she realized she loved him and not his nice and safe brother. My only complaint is I needed an epilogue!
She would do anything for him even play the nanny to his notorious playboy brother Pato. Her job is to prevent him from causing another sexual scandal and disgracing the King just before his upcoming wedding. Originally she hates her assignment. She wants nothing to do with a womanizing douche with no morals or values.
But Pato isn't the superficial womanizer Adrianna thinks. He has lots of secrets and I must admit I didn't expect to find so much mystery and intrigue surrounding him and his family. I'm glad Adrianna never gave up on him once she realized she loved him and not his nice and safe brother. My only complaint is I needed an epilogue!
July 20, 2013
I really, really hate slutty heroes and I also hate a book that starts out with the hero in bed with other women. Yes I meant that plural. However...Pato is a hero that grows on you and when all the secrets are revealed there is a lot to redeem him. I did guess the big secret early on but that actually added to my enjoyment cos I like to think I'm smarter than the average bear.
The heroine Adriana was a little uneven. Her family history was such a big thing for her and her family which ruled pretty much all of her actions until she was thrown into Pato's orbit and he gave her a good shake up.
The romance was well done and I liked the fact that his sheets cooled a little before things started to really heat up with the heroine. I didn't really like the ending which seemed a little abrupt. I checked for a next page a couple of times before I believed it was over. It was a happy ending but I guess I wanted the happy ever after ending rather than just the promise of it.
An enjoyable read. On a balance it should probably be 3 1/2 stars. I'll probably give it four on the Amazon system.
The heroine Adriana was a little uneven. Her family history was such a big thing for her and her family which ruled pretty much all of her actions until she was thrown into Pato's orbit and he gave her a good shake up.
The romance was well done and I liked the fact that his sheets cooled a little before things started to really heat up with the heroine. I didn't really like the ending which seemed a little abrupt. I checked for a next page a couple of times before I believed it was over. It was a happy ending but I guess I wanted the happy ever after ending rather than just the promise of it.
An enjoyable read. On a balance it should probably be 3 1/2 stars. I'll probably give it four on the Amazon system.
July 3, 2013
Ok read. Written in a way that drew one in.
Hero is a real womanizer even after he meets the heroine.
One does get to know the heroine something that sometimes is neglected by HP authors cause they are including so much hero detail.
Hero is a real womanizer even after he meets the heroine.
One does get to know the heroine something that sometimes is neglected by HP authors cause they are including so much hero detail.
August 9, 2013
3.5 stars
Adrianna is the last descendant from a line of royal mistresses and traitors. She is the crown prince Lenz's PA. She thinks she is in love with him, and she would do anything he asks from her, even babysitting his much corrupted young brother, playboy prince Pato who takes debauchery and scandals to a new level. But Adrianna and Pato rub each other the wrong way. Pato ruffles her feathers, gets under her skin and Adriana makes him want things he gave up a long time ago, makes him want to cross a line he can't allow himself to cross.
I can understand that Pato choose to hide in plain sight, to be a royal manwhore to cover up a royal secret best kept hidden. But I don't have to like it. What I like is that , beside a bad reputation as a player, CC gave him depth and strength of character. I like that its obvious from the start that he feels something for Adrianna and that she is the only one he allows to see under his masks.
The book sizzles with tension and awareness from the first page, while Adrianna and Pato struggle against an overwhelming and irresistible attraction. The reader is kept on his toes. But reading this book - or any of CC's books for that matter - is like eating a very filling emotional meal. It's kind of exhausting.
at the end we got the promise of an HEA not the HEA itself. An epilogue would have made a world of difference. I wanted to know what happens throughout the horrible year they are facing.
Adrianna is the last descendant from a line of royal mistresses and traitors. She is the crown prince Lenz's PA. She thinks she is in love with him, and she would do anything he asks from her, even babysitting his much corrupted young brother, playboy prince Pato who takes debauchery and scandals to a new level. But Adrianna and Pato rub each other the wrong way. Pato ruffles her feathers, gets under her skin and Adriana makes him want things he gave up a long time ago, makes him want to cross a line he can't allow himself to cross.
I can understand that Pato choose to hide in plain sight, to be a royal manwhore to cover up a royal secret best kept hidden. But I don't have to like it. What I like is that , beside a bad reputation as a player, CC gave him depth and strength of character. I like that its obvious from the start that he feels something for Adrianna and that she is the only one he allows to see under his masks.
The book sizzles with tension and awareness from the first page, while Adrianna and Pato struggle against an overwhelming and irresistible attraction. The reader is kept on his toes. But reading this book - or any of CC's books for that matter - is like eating a very filling emotional meal. It's kind of exhausting.
at the end we got the promise of an HEA not the HEA itself. An epilogue would have made a world of difference. I wanted to know what happens throughout the horrible year they are facing.
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September 24, 2013Can I give minus stars? Please, please, please???
This was a total waste of my reading time. None, none of the characters were admirable. Everyone needed to grow a pair... of something likeable
Prince Pato - Man slut - who never met a female he didn't "do", singly or in pairs. Should come with a warning sign - STI incubator
Adrianna - Another wuss, fixated on her family's past reputation. She proclaims to despise Pato, but whose actions and words don't follow through. Shows no strength of will, inner warrior, just a victim personality. She of course just fall victim to that fatal Pato charm.\
Prince Lenz - A Wuss, living a lie
Princess Lissette - nasty bride-to-be of Lenz (she's in the mould of evil step-mother type)
The King - Another wuss, albeit an autocratic one, letting a lie stand
The Queen (deceased) - Adulterer
Adrianna's parents - The less said about them, the better.
The story just didn't work for me. I did not enjoy it. Everyone is just too much a victim of their heritage. Can't stand how everyone here is a martyr, just acting out in different ways. The HEA for the H and h is straight out of any '50s big-screen royalty movie melodrama, complete with gold braid and guards.
If this is the type of story-line that M&B/Harlequin thinks is great (like their new Harley covers, which look like peep-holes) then I'll definitely be reading a lot less of them in future.
This was a total waste of my reading time. None, none of the characters were admirable. Everyone needed to grow a pair... of something likeable
Prince Pato - Man slut - who never met a female he didn't "do", singly or in pairs. Should come with a warning sign - STI incubator
Adrianna - Another wuss, fixated on her family's past reputation. She proclaims to despise Pato, but whose actions and words don't follow through. Shows no strength of will, inner warrior, just a victim personality. She of course just fall victim to that fatal Pato charm.\
Prince Lenz - A Wuss, living a lie
Princess Lissette - nasty bride-to-be of Lenz (she's in the mould of evil step-mother type)
The King - Another wuss, albeit an autocratic one, letting a lie stand
The Queen (deceased) - Adulterer
Adrianna's parents - The less said about them, the better.
The story just didn't work for me. I did not enjoy it. Everyone is just too much a victim of their heritage. Can't stand how everyone here is a martyr, just acting out in different ways. The HEA for the H and h is straight out of any '50s big-screen royalty movie melodrama, complete with gold braid and guards.
If this is the type of story-line that M&B/Harlequin thinks is great (like their new Harley covers, which look like peep-holes) then I'll definitely be reading a lot less of them in future.
July 13, 2013
I received an early release of A Royal Without Rules from Netgalley and for the first time I am not too happy. I give it between a 2.5 to 3 stars. I did not like the ending. This is not to say that the author did not write a good book just my response to it. I read the entire book because there was a secret that I wanted to know so I had to make it through. I honestly did not like anyone in this book. I could have withstood not liking the characters in the book if there was an epilogue that turned things around and not just promises of turning things around. Things were so dark and tainted that I needed to see that people kept their word not just hear the promises. I think it was the author's intent for everyone to be tainted and she did a good job of that. But, there was no light in this book even when there was a bit of it thrown at the end I couldn't see it because it wasn't enough for me to forget all of the dark. Now I need a comedy.
June 6, 2015
la historia es buena pero no tanto y esto se debe a varios motivos, uno de ellos es que el misterio de porque el príncipe se comporta como un libertino te esperas mas y la verdad me hice muchas ilusiones y al final me decepcione.
la verdad es que nunca en toda la historia logras entender de cuando surgió el amor, ya que la autora tiende a ir lento y de pronto rápido.
Y por ultimo la verdad lo que mas me decepciono fue el final....un final abierto, pero muy abierto que casi pides a gritos un final. Que es eso de ESPERAR HASTA QUE TU HERMANO Y SU ESPOSA TENGAN UN HEREDERO. Y MIENTRAS QUE TODO EL MUNDO ME SIGA VIENDO COMO UN RAMERA
la verdad es que nunca en toda la historia logras entender de cuando surgió el amor, ya que la autora tiende a ir lento y de pronto rápido.
Y por ultimo la verdad lo que mas me decepciono fue el final....un final abierto, pero muy abierto que casi pides a gritos un final. Que es eso de ESPERAR HASTA QUE TU HERMANO Y SU ESPOSA TENGAN UN HEREDERO. Y MIENTRAS QUE TODO EL MUNDO ME SIGA VIENDO COMO UN RAMERA
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2013
One of the better hp' s in this month's selection.3.5***
May 22, 2018
This one is a winner, winner chicken dinner!!
Prince Pato is a thot! He spends all his time jumping in and out of beds. A useless royal.
Adriana is a member of the country’s treasonous family. One ancestor killed a king, and some of the others were known as whores for various members of the monarchy.
Put these two together and you have a combustible mix.
There was so much happening that it’s hard to write a review that doesn’t give away spoilers. Suffice to say that you will not be bored. And you will fall in love with Pato. He’s a rake!
My only complaint is the ending left me wanting an epilogue. I needed to know that the promises made were kept. That their HEA actually did happen. I wanted to wake up early on a lovely Saturday morning and watch their wedding on tv. I needed to gasp over her dress, lust over her new husband and gush over them as a couple. I needed that closure. That HEA.
Prince Pato is a thot! He spends all his time jumping in and out of beds. A useless royal.
Adriana is a member of the country’s treasonous family. One ancestor killed a king, and some of the others were known as whores for various members of the monarchy.
Put these two together and you have a combustible mix.
There was so much happening that it’s hard to write a review that doesn’t give away spoilers. Suffice to say that you will not be bored. And you will fall in love with Pato. He’s a rake!
My only complaint is the ending left me wanting an epilogue. I needed to know that the promises made were kept. That their HEA actually did happen. I wanted to wake up early on a lovely Saturday morning and watch their wedding on tv. I needed to gasp over her dress, lust over her new husband and gush over them as a couple. I needed that closure. That HEA.
March 28, 2014
Phenomenal. Perfection. Exceptional. Outstanding! And every other matching word. 10 Stars!
When RITA nominations are announced I usually have a nosy at my fave category so I downloaded a sample from Amazon and it had me at hello. In fact i topped up my visa for this one! If I was clever enough to write a book this would be it! I'm just a reader tho and THIS is what I wait for.
Prince Pato is the worlds best man whore, he's worked, litterally, quite hard in the last few years to tarnish his reputation and present to the world someone who is unworthy of the Kings crown. Just as well since he's the brother of the to-be King. The to-be King's royal PA is assigned to Pato's side and under strict instructions to keep Pato from straying or causing any shame before the to-be King's upcoming royal wedding. Sparks fly from the first page and I guarantee you if you LOVE the sparks to fly in these stories then you wont be able to resist purchasing the book. Check out the sample and let me know if I'm wrong lol.
When I saw the RITA announcement the cover was the American cover but in my end of the world we have the Sexy M&B covers and I saw the two girls and thought well, that's different! The whole book is different and takes us where we've not usually taken before! Once you read the first chapter you'll know what I mean. It's ground breaking really.
The bad boy brother isnt new but the reasons behind the plot are awesome, another reason this is a keeper, Caitlin has managed to take a regular storyline and turn it into something incredible. It's also skillful author that can make you think Man what complete A$$ this guy is and then by the end get you to completely change your mind! I LOVE Pato and I love the witty and humerous conversations that Pato and Adriana have. I laughed giggled and teared up right along side of them.
I sincerely hope against all hopes Pato's brother has his own story and it starts off with him NOT walking down the aisle ;)
I love this book, will buy the paperback and will re read it because of all of the above AND more!
When RITA nominations are announced I usually have a nosy at my fave category so I downloaded a sample from Amazon and it had me at hello. In fact i topped up my visa for this one! If I was clever enough to write a book this would be it! I'm just a reader tho and THIS is what I wait for.
Prince Pato is the worlds best man whore, he's worked, litterally, quite hard in the last few years to tarnish his reputation and present to the world someone who is unworthy of the Kings crown. Just as well since he's the brother of the to-be King. The to-be King's royal PA is assigned to Pato's side and under strict instructions to keep Pato from straying or causing any shame before the to-be King's upcoming royal wedding. Sparks fly from the first page and I guarantee you if you LOVE the sparks to fly in these stories then you wont be able to resist purchasing the book. Check out the sample and let me know if I'm wrong lol.
When I saw the RITA announcement the cover was the American cover but in my end of the world we have the Sexy M&B covers and I saw the two girls and thought well, that's different! The whole book is different and takes us where we've not usually taken before! Once you read the first chapter you'll know what I mean. It's ground breaking really.
The bad boy brother isnt new but the reasons behind the plot are awesome, another reason this is a keeper, Caitlin has managed to take a regular storyline and turn it into something incredible. It's also skillful author that can make you think Man what complete A$$ this guy is and then by the end get you to completely change your mind! I LOVE Pato and I love the witty and humerous conversations that Pato and Adriana have. I laughed giggled and teared up right along side of them.
I sincerely hope against all hopes Pato's brother has his own story and it starts off with him NOT walking down the aisle ;)
I love this book, will buy the paperback and will re read it because of all of the above AND more!
October 6, 2013
This book tells the story of Adriana Righetti, a PA to the crown prince, Prince Lenz. She was asked to take care of his younger brother, Prince Pato and get him out of the limelight before his wedding. She, who believes herself to be in love with Prince Lenz, will do her everything for him. From the start, with all the bad publicities gained by Pato, she has no respect and doesn’t think much of him. Pato is a playboy who seems to change women the same way he get a change of clothes. Being in his company, Adriana play indifference to his sarcastic remarks and treatments. As time passed, they become closer to each other and without realising it, they begin to show each other a side that they have keep to themselves. Adriana was devastated when she gets to know about Lenz’s intention to make her his mistress. It s was thru Pato, she learned about true love and loyalty.
I find the storyline unclear especially at the beginning but I find it quite interesting especially towards the second half of the story. I was rather surprised with the secret that Pato is carrying and the reason for who he are now. I wish for a more conclusive ending to the story rather than leaving it hanging as it is. Overall, despite the slow start, this book is a good read to me.
I find the storyline unclear especially at the beginning but I find it quite interesting especially towards the second half of the story. I was rather surprised with the secret that Pato is carrying and the reason for who he are now. I wish for a more conclusive ending to the story rather than leaving it hanging as it is. Overall, despite the slow start, this book is a good read to me.
September 9, 2013
This is a very confusing book. Half the time I didn't really know what was going on. Romance wise, the story was okay and there was enough chemistry between the two main characters to keep me happy, but at the same time for the hero to constantly torment and harass the vulnerable heroine and then excuse it as some part of a weird royal plot was a bit uncalled for. I guess the problem with this is that I was a bit disengaged from the characters. I couldn't understand why Pato wasn't kinder or why Adriana didn't just tell him to sod off. The rest of the characters in the story as well are just all horrible and judgmental. Even Pato's brother who is supposed to be a good guy isn't especially nice. And so to be left with only two decent characters, well only one really, is rather disappointing.
2 stars for the lack of coherency and for only having one likeable character.
2 stars for the lack of coherency and for only having one likeable character.
May 21, 2013
phenomenal for a harlequin presents novel.
January 3, 2017
Ummmm..... where the f**k is the epilogue
December 2, 2014
I won this book for free through the GoodReads Giveaway Program. As I write my review here I encourage you to please pick up your own copy to form your own opinion as well.
Throughout this novel I was utterly confused as to what was taking place. There were sections here and there when I felt like I understood what was going on but then I would become confused again. It wasn't until the history of Adriana's family was released that a series of events seemed to fall into order and things finally began to make sense. I also understood the section at the end when Pato released his family secrets. However, I still found myself confused at times as to the current location. We were on a plane one moment then flash backed without realizing it then back in the plane again. It was mainly the flashbacks that confused me - I felt they weren't written well to carry the reader.
I also felt like I was going in circles reading the same conflict over and over again. I wish it had more depth of other conflicts such as the agreement between Pato and his brother or the conflicting family histories. The circling conflicts between Pato and Adriana got old and was confusing as well. I didn't like that Adriana was easily tempted by Pato. I wanted her to be strong, steadfast and fierce.
At the end of the novel, once Pato released all his secrets, I couldn't understand what the actual plan was between Pato and Adriana. He kept saying "I need to let you go" or "I'm letting you go" yet they continued to make love and work together. And why couldn't he be with her exactly? I get her family's terrible history but could not pin point his reason for not wanting to be with her. He wasn't going to be king and he continued to say to Adriana "don't let the history form you, you're better than that." why should ether one of them allow history to form them? (which they both overcame at the novel's conclusion).
Overall I just felt like I went in confusing circles throughout this novel. Maybe I'll revisit it in the future with hopefully not as much confusion.
2 out of 5 Stars - Happy Reading!
Production Note: Story ended on 184 but the book contains 192 pages as listed on Goodreads
Throughout this novel I was utterly confused as to what was taking place. There were sections here and there when I felt like I understood what was going on but then I would become confused again. It wasn't until the history of Adriana's family was released that a series of events seemed to fall into order and things finally began to make sense. I also understood the section at the end when Pato released his family secrets. However, I still found myself confused at times as to the current location. We were on a plane one moment then flash backed without realizing it then back in the plane again. It was mainly the flashbacks that confused me - I felt they weren't written well to carry the reader.
I also felt like I was going in circles reading the same conflict over and over again. I wish it had more depth of other conflicts such as the agreement between Pato and his brother or the conflicting family histories. The circling conflicts between Pato and Adriana got old and was confusing as well. I didn't like that Adriana was easily tempted by Pato. I wanted her to be strong, steadfast and fierce.
At the end of the novel, once Pato released all his secrets, I couldn't understand what the actual plan was between Pato and Adriana. He kept saying "I need to let you go" or "I'm letting you go" yet they continued to make love and work together. And why couldn't he be with her exactly? I get her family's terrible history but could not pin point his reason for not wanting to be with her. He wasn't going to be king and he continued to say to Adriana "don't let the history form you, you're better than that." why should ether one of them allow history to form them? (which they both overcame at the novel's conclusion).
Overall I just felt like I went in confusing circles throughout this novel. Maybe I'll revisit it in the future with hopefully not as much confusion.
2 out of 5 Stars - Happy Reading!
Production Note: Story ended on 184 but the book contains 192 pages as listed on Goodreads
October 3, 2018
Adriana is from the Righetti family, one which has historically been branded as traitors and whores, so she's had an uphill battle, her whole life, proving that she is neither of those things. She's worked for the past 3 years as the prince's personal assistant and has been the epitome of class and respectability. Now she's tasked with making sure the prince's brother, Pato, a promiscuous and scandal seeking wastrel, doesn't get into any trouble before the prince's wedding. Adriana both despises Pato and adores him. He's charming and irresistible, but he stands for everything she's been battling her whole life...and receiving any of the negative consequences she's experienced (without having done anything). Pato is actually a lot more than what he seems and he has his reasons, but Adriana is the only one who makes him regret the choices he's had to make, because he can't be with her without causing the very thing she's trying to avoid - scandal.
Okay. First, I have to be clear that "Pato" is "duck" in Spanish, so I had a really, really hard time not reading the hero's name as "Prince Duck." It was a bit ridiculous...and made me giggle where I probably shouldn't have been giggling. Moving beyond that, I did like the themes and messages that this story was conveying. One of which was that you can't let other people do the labeling for you...you get to decide what you'll be and f**k 'em if they don't like it. Pato is a manwhore, for lack of better terminology and he doesn't care. Adriana is quite innocent, but has been painted a whore just because of who her family is. Adriana fears, more than anything, becoming that which everyone calls her. Pato is determined to show her that she can be whatever she wants and that she only gives others power when she lets it bother her. So this is a pretty good message against slut-shaming. Pato is definitely a "slut" and doesn't allow anyone to shame him. This is also a good message for owning your sexuality. Just because someone likes sex or loves someone they shouldn't (and has sex with them) doesn't define who that person is and no one should have any say over who and what a person does with their own body. I kinda liked it when Adriana decides that she's taking control of her own sexuality (which means she hands it over to Pato...but whatever).
So, big picture - I liked what this story was conveying. Looking more at the details, I had a bit more of a struggle. I was a bit baffled that Pato was continuing a life of hedonism and indulgence in order to make sure his brother got the throne instead of himself. Wouldn't it have been much easier to just walk away? The only reason Pato was doing what he was doing was so his father wouldn't want him to be king...and with a lack of other options, his brother was the only choice. So take yourself out of the options and walk away til dear old dad is dead. I was surprised that this wasn't even addressed...so I couldn't understand why Pato felt living the life he was living was his only choice. I also didn't care for the fact that, even though Pato was trying to tell Adriana that she was the only one with any power to hurt herself, he and his brother had targeted her because of her name and set her up to be viewed as not only Pato's mistress, but also the mistress of the prince (having been his PA for 3 years). So they basically set out to destroy her reputation just because of her name. To my way of seeing things, this makes them just as bad as any other slut-shamers out there. (There was also a noticeable lack of fury on Adriana's part at learning this...) This is especially true given the consequences that Adriana pays for following Pato's advice - her family reputation is blasted to smithereens. Talk about Machiavellian royalty. Even Pato, who claimed to love Adriana by the time this was revealed, seemed to have that "ends justifies the means" attitude about it. Her family and their status in the country was of absolutely no significance to Pato.
Interestingly enough, until it came back to bite her in the ass, it wasn't of any significance to Adriana either. She made a lot of far-reaching decisions without ever considering consequences, so I couldn't really feel sorry when she ended up regretting the consequences she didn't think about. And I really couldn't understand her decision to continue a relationship with Pato, knowing they'd be drowning in scandal, without even discussing her family (she made a token consideration after she'd already made her choice)...it just came across as selfish. Okay, so her family has been concerned about reputation and her father is a judgemental ass, but the daughter has just brought scandal to the family, which is their absolute worst nightmare and she barely feels regret once Pato comes in offers her a scandalous, but loving future. And she throws away the concerns of her family like it's nothing, with Pato telling her "Don't worry, they'll forgive you in a few years when you're a queen and they reap the benefits." All her concerns (which she had for like a second) vanish - no need to worry how they'll deal with the repercussions of her embracing scandal or the pain they'll feel. Nope. I feel like this decision needed to be a bit more balanced out with some familial concern or maybe it would have been okay if her family had been absolutely evil...but they weren't.
Now maybe I could have overlooked all this if I'd really felt the love between the characters. But I didn't. The only thing I kept seeing was Pato doing something to make the heroine feel ashamed and then her wallowing in that shame until she picked herself up out of it and Pato repeated the process. And given her beliefs about sex and its shamefulness, I was surprised she was able to see Pato as attractive...especially since he flaunted his sexual lifestyle in front of her...increasing her feelings of shame. This did not feel like a healthy relationship, but more of a toxic spiral. And Pato just kept dragging Adriana down with him. Angsty, sure, but not very romantic.
And I was absolutely aghast when Adriana has UNPROTECTED sex with Pato, who more or less admits that he's probably had sex with half the women in Europe. Um. No. A man with a sexual history like that, whether he's ashamed of his promiscuity or not, is at a higher risk for STI, so you at least frickin talk about sexual health before going in without a raincoat. I lost ALL respect for Pato (and Adriana) at that point because he clearly has no desire to protect her and she has no brain power when it comes to Prince Duck.
Okay. First, I have to be clear that "Pato" is "duck" in Spanish, so I had a really, really hard time not reading the hero's name as "Prince Duck." It was a bit ridiculous...and made me giggle where I probably shouldn't have been giggling. Moving beyond that, I did like the themes and messages that this story was conveying. One of which was that you can't let other people do the labeling for you...you get to decide what you'll be and f**k 'em if they don't like it. Pato is a manwhore, for lack of better terminology and he doesn't care. Adriana is quite innocent, but has been painted a whore just because of who her family is. Adriana fears, more than anything, becoming that which everyone calls her. Pato is determined to show her that she can be whatever she wants and that she only gives others power when she lets it bother her. So this is a pretty good message against slut-shaming. Pato is definitely a "slut" and doesn't allow anyone to shame him. This is also a good message for owning your sexuality. Just because someone likes sex or loves someone they shouldn't (and has sex with them) doesn't define who that person is and no one should have any say over who and what a person does with their own body. I kinda liked it when Adriana decides that she's taking control of her own sexuality (which means she hands it over to Pato...but whatever).
So, big picture - I liked what this story was conveying. Looking more at the details, I had a bit more of a struggle. I was a bit baffled that Pato was continuing a life of hedonism and indulgence in order to make sure his brother got the throne instead of himself. Wouldn't it have been much easier to just walk away? The only reason Pato was doing what he was doing was so his father wouldn't want him to be king...and with a lack of other options, his brother was the only choice. So take yourself out of the options and walk away til dear old dad is dead. I was surprised that this wasn't even addressed...so I couldn't understand why Pato felt living the life he was living was his only choice. I also didn't care for the fact that, even though Pato was trying to tell Adriana that she was the only one with any power to hurt herself, he and his brother had targeted her because of her name and set her up to be viewed as not only Pato's mistress, but also the mistress of the prince (having been his PA for 3 years). So they basically set out to destroy her reputation just because of her name. To my way of seeing things, this makes them just as bad as any other slut-shamers out there. (There was also a noticeable lack of fury on Adriana's part at learning this...) This is especially true given the consequences that Adriana pays for following Pato's advice - her family reputation is blasted to smithereens. Talk about Machiavellian royalty. Even Pato, who claimed to love Adriana by the time this was revealed, seemed to have that "ends justifies the means" attitude about it. Her family and their status in the country was of absolutely no significance to Pato.
Interestingly enough, until it came back to bite her in the ass, it wasn't of any significance to Adriana either. She made a lot of far-reaching decisions without ever considering consequences, so I couldn't really feel sorry when she ended up regretting the consequences she didn't think about. And I really couldn't understand her decision to continue a relationship with Pato, knowing they'd be drowning in scandal, without even discussing her family (she made a token consideration after she'd already made her choice)...it just came across as selfish. Okay, so her family has been concerned about reputation and her father is a judgemental ass, but the daughter has just brought scandal to the family, which is their absolute worst nightmare and she barely feels regret once Pato comes in offers her a scandalous, but loving future. And she throws away the concerns of her family like it's nothing, with Pato telling her "Don't worry, they'll forgive you in a few years when you're a queen and they reap the benefits." All her concerns (which she had for like a second) vanish - no need to worry how they'll deal with the repercussions of her embracing scandal or the pain they'll feel. Nope. I feel like this decision needed to be a bit more balanced out with some familial concern or maybe it would have been okay if her family had been absolutely evil...but they weren't.
Now maybe I could have overlooked all this if I'd really felt the love between the characters. But I didn't. The only thing I kept seeing was Pato doing something to make the heroine feel ashamed and then her wallowing in that shame until she picked herself up out of it and Pato repeated the process. And given her beliefs about sex and its shamefulness, I was surprised she was able to see Pato as attractive...especially since he flaunted his sexual lifestyle in front of her...increasing her feelings of shame. This did not feel like a healthy relationship, but more of a toxic spiral. And Pato just kept dragging Adriana down with him. Angsty, sure, but not very romantic.
And I was absolutely aghast when Adriana has UNPROTECTED sex with Pato, who more or less admits that he's probably had sex with half the women in Europe. Um. No. A man with a sexual history like that, whether he's ashamed of his promiscuity or not, is at a higher risk for STI, so you at least frickin talk about sexual health before going in without a raincoat. I lost ALL respect for Pato (and Adriana) at that point because he clearly has no desire to protect her and she has no brain power when it comes to Prince Duck.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2013
Adriana Righetti is the prince's Royal PA and also comes from a long line of royal mistresses and traitors. Which she is determined to not become and she truly believes that prince Lenz sees her as something more. Then he asks her to keep his notorious brother out of the press before his very important wedding takes place. As she thinks herself in love with Lenz she will do as he asks. Pato is a playboy and the bad boy of the family. Pato and Adriana rub each other the wrong way. Adriana plays that she is indifferent to Pato, when she really isn't. They become close each allowing each other to see parts of themselves they keep hidden. Then one night Adriana learns the truth, Lenz had always planned on making her his mistress. She is hurt as she truly believed he saw her as more than that professionally speaking. She falls in love with Pato although I think she did almost instantly she just tried to deny it to herself. She learns Pato's secrets and loves him even more. I understand Pato's reasons for stepping aside and continuing on the path he has chosen. But I don't have to like it. I wish there would be a sequel as I so hope he and Adriana had a nicer happier ending.
July 23, 2013
"Prince Pato, international manwhore and noted black sheep of the Kitzinia royal family, was the biggest waste of space alive. He stood for nothing save his own hedonism and selfishness, she wanted to be anywhere in the world but here.
Anywhere."
Poor Adriana has been assigned to watch over Prince Patricio (Pato). Pato's brother, and heir to the throne of Kitzania, will be getting married in a few weeks. Adriana has to prevent Pato from behaving inappropriately and causing embarrassment to the family.
Adriana comes from scandal herself. Three descendants have been mistresses to the Kitzanian royal family.
"It isn't my dirt but I'm covered in it, head toe, but I'll be clean. Ever."
As Adriana and Pato work together, the disdain grows to an attraction. More importantly, there's trust building between them. Pato shares a secret that explains his hedonistic lifestyle.
Overall, I enjoyed their story. Pato and Adriana make a scandalously delightful couple.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
Anywhere."
Poor Adriana has been assigned to watch over Prince Patricio (Pato). Pato's brother, and heir to the throne of Kitzania, will be getting married in a few weeks. Adriana has to prevent Pato from behaving inappropriately and causing embarrassment to the family.
Adriana comes from scandal herself. Three descendants have been mistresses to the Kitzanian royal family.
"It isn't my dirt but I'm covered in it, head toe, but I'll be clean. Ever."
As Adriana and Pato work together, the disdain grows to an attraction. More importantly, there's trust building between them. Pato shares a secret that explains his hedonistic lifestyle.
Overall, I enjoyed their story. Pato and Adriana make a scandalously delightful couple.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
July 24, 2013
I feel a little conflicted about this book, mostly by the way people treated Adriana. Even Pato used her and got away to easy for the fact afterwards. She’s such a sweet girl and everyone judged her by some legends from the past.
We can clearly see she’s trying to break free from all the drama surrounding her family and the way people think of them as dangerous. She never did anything wrong and was always found guilt, but the way her father treated her was the worst for me.
I liked this couple together and even understand Pato reasons for using her, but it was way to low and they should at least have consulted her before.
Pato was the bachelor and was way to happy to pretend and show the world this side of him, but Adriana discovered things were deeper than that and she made him be so good. For their relationship and the changes this book earned the 4th star.
We can clearly see she’s trying to break free from all the drama surrounding her family and the way people think of them as dangerous. She never did anything wrong and was always found guilt, but the way her father treated her was the worst for me.
I liked this couple together and even understand Pato reasons for using her, but it was way to low and they should at least have consulted her before.
Pato was the bachelor and was way to happy to pretend and show the world this side of him, but Adriana discovered things were deeper than that and she made him be so good. For their relationship and the changes this book earned the 4th star.
September 8, 2013
This was a really entertaining book with a hero and heroine with fantastic backstories and sizzling attraction.
I especially like PA heroines, and this one was very fun to read. At times the heroine was a little starchy, but the contrast with the hero's blatant sexuality and power was very amusing.
The hero has a deep secret that I was intrigued about throughout the book and it made him incredibly noble and deserving of the heroine.
There were a few times I thought the hero and heroine were a little cruel and cutting to each other, and sometimes the conversation seemed a bit disjointed, but on a whole, it was a very engaging story that kept my interest. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this.
Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for the e-ARC of this book.
I especially like PA heroines, and this one was very fun to read. At times the heroine was a little starchy, but the contrast with the hero's blatant sexuality and power was very amusing.
The hero has a deep secret that I was intrigued about throughout the book and it made him incredibly noble and deserving of the heroine.
There were a few times I thought the hero and heroine were a little cruel and cutting to each other, and sometimes the conversation seemed a bit disjointed, but on a whole, it was a very engaging story that kept my interest. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this.
Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for the e-ARC of this book.
July 26, 2013
It was so damn hard for me to like the book because:
1. I was soooo annoyed with Adriana's character. Aaaargh! There were so many times I felt like yelling at her, "Stop talking!". But then again, if she did stop talking (or answering) to Prince Pato, maybe the ending won't be like the one's written because Prince Pato definitely loved challenge.
2. Prince Pato. I can't take him seriously because his name reminded me to Pato the yellow duck from POCOYO. XD
The story and the intrigue was quiet and interesting. I loved the idea about the curse. But for the two reasons above, I cannot enjoy the book. My bad. Truly sorry.
ARC provided by Harlequin via Net Galley.
1. I was soooo annoyed with Adriana's character. Aaaargh! There were so many times I felt like yelling at her, "Stop talking!". But then again, if she did stop talking (or answering) to Prince Pato, maybe the ending won't be like the one's written because Prince Pato definitely loved challenge.
2. Prince Pato. I can't take him seriously because his name reminded me to Pato the yellow duck from POCOYO. XD
The story and the intrigue was quiet and interesting. I loved the idea about the curse. But for the two reasons above, I cannot enjoy the book. My bad. Truly sorry.
ARC provided by Harlequin via Net Galley.
March 18, 2015
I haven't read too many Harlequins so I don't know if this is a typical read. Adriana is Crown Prince Lenz's PA and he has sent her to keep his younger brother Prince Pato in line and out of the press until Lenz's wedding in 2 months time. Adriana has her own demons in the form of ancestors who were mistresses of the royal family.
I love bad boys so Prince Pato was perfect for me. Younger brother of Crown Prince Lenz, he has made a career out of being a man whore. Adriana, on the first day of her assignment, walks into his bedroom and finds him in bed with 2 naked beauties. And so it begins.
I would have liked an epilogue as I didn't get any closure with the way the story ended.
I love bad boys so Prince Pato was perfect for me. Younger brother of Crown Prince Lenz, he has made a career out of being a man whore. Adriana, on the first day of her assignment, walks into his bedroom and finds him in bed with 2 naked beauties. And so it begins.
I would have liked an epilogue as I didn't get any closure with the way the story ended.
October 13, 2013
The heroine is considered to be judged by the family scandal. Used by the royal family, as a mistress and never a wife. There is to be a royal family wedding. She is asked to keep the playboy prince out of the public eye. She and the prince don't get along at first. Then start to see behind each others lifestyle. The prince has secrets and mystery surround him and his family. Then the heroine learns true love and loyalty with the young prince. I wish the story could have shone more of what the future holds for the royal family. I guess we imagine what happens next.
November 12, 2016
Interesting premise with a commendable depth of characterization and emotion (maybe sometimes a little too much emotion?). But I found it difficult to take the affairs of the "kingdom of Kitzinia" seriously, and sometimes the contrast between the angst-y characters and the operetta kingdom was a bit much. Granted, the heroine was not a waitress at the rathskeller and no one broke into song, but it had a Student Prince feel to it that didn't mesh with the overall quality of anguish in the story.
August 5, 2013
This was a good read. I liked how I found a couple of life lessons tucked inside the story just a little reminders to boost a person up if they were feeling down. Personally I would have loved to see what scandals these 2 could have created. They are perfect fit for each other and bring out the best in each other. I will be recommending this book to my friends.
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December 29, 2014"Crews' tale is intensely dramatic, set in a quaint fictional European principality. The royal repartee is all-consuming, their lovemaking is sensual and volatile and their romance is a nightmare turned fairy tale." RT Book Reviews, rated 4 1/2 stars
Miniseries: Royal & Ruthless
Category: Passion
Miniseries: Royal & Ruthless
Category: Passion
August 24, 2013
Review Posted on HarlequinJunkie.com with true rating of 3.5 stars
In the kingdom of Kitzinia, there are two famous families. The Royals and the Righettis. And while the reputations of each are polar opposites, there’s no denying the connection they share.Read More
In the kingdom of Kitzinia, there are two famous families. The Royals and the Righettis. And while the reputations of each are polar opposites, there’s no denying the connection they share.Read More
August 17, 2013
Wow! This is some story. Just when I thought I knew what was going on and what was going to happen, I was thrown off kilter and the story changed dramatically. There is quite a bit packed into under 200 pages but I would've loved for the story to have been longer and more detailed. I know, I know, that's always the case with any good book, but it still had to be said.
November 5, 2014
A heroine celebrating the shame & disgrace of her anscestors & a hero, his debauchery & martyrdom! Who on earth cares about the scandals that happend centuries ago & wear the hair-shirt like a badge, accepting gratefully the insults as accolades and generally behaving like a martyr? The whole book is about the shame of being born in a family of 'whores' & 'sluts'. Get a life!
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