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Mated Queens #3
Hands Off
Most women my age are preparing for marriage while I’m still enjoying the freedoms that come with donning my armor and promising to protect my home country, Kusovania.
Days before the yearly gala that brings nobles and royalty from neighboring countries, my brothers and I are sent to retrieve a runaway princess. I'm assuming this will be just a routine journey but don't expect the little piece of sunshine that is Princess Juliette of Smunia.
Too fast and too soon, I find myself smitten with Juliette, a woman I can't have and shouldn't touch.
After all, her father has promised her hand to the highest bidder and I have nothing more to give than my sword.
But her choice is worth more to me than archaic rules and traditions so I'll fight for her hand regardless of the consequences.
Will it be enough, though, to call her mine?
Hands Off is the third standalone novella in the Mated Queens series following a soldier, the princess she fell in love with at first sight, and her fight to make sure that Juliette has a choice. CW in the Author's Note.
Days before the yearly gala that brings nobles and royalty from neighboring countries, my brothers and I are sent to retrieve a runaway princess. I'm assuming this will be just a routine journey but don't expect the little piece of sunshine that is Princess Juliette of Smunia.
Too fast and too soon, I find myself smitten with Juliette, a woman I can't have and shouldn't touch.
After all, her father has promised her hand to the highest bidder and I have nothing more to give than my sword.
But her choice is worth more to me than archaic rules and traditions so I'll fight for her hand regardless of the consequences.
Will it be enough, though, to call her mine?
Hands Off is the third standalone novella in the Mated Queens series following a soldier, the princess she fell in love with at first sight, and her fight to make sure that Juliette has a choice. CW in the Author's Note.
103 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2024
About the author
N. Slater
143 books324 followersAfrican American. Indie Author. Chaos Writer.
Polyamorous & Found Family Stories Brought to Life.
From PRN to fantasy, contemporary to dark & twisted, there's a little something for everyone.
Current Taboo Romance ~ Vows and Venom Links:
Preorder here ~ https://tinyurl.com/vowsandvenom
Buy here (Releasing April 1st) ~ https://books2read.com/u/bwleNy
Polyamorous & Found Family Stories Brought to Life.
From PRN to fantasy, contemporary to dark & twisted, there's a little something for everyone.
Current Taboo Romance ~ Vows and Venom Links:
Preorder here ~ https://tinyurl.com/vowsandvenom
Buy here (Releasing April 1st) ~ https://books2read.com/u/bwleNy
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 5, 2024
Slater has redeemed herself in this installment of the Mated Queens series. This read carries the same theme of “love will prevail” as the previous two but with a more tricky pairing of partners. I loved seeing the past characters in this installment as well, it was such refreshing surprise. A commoner- a solider at that and a princess? Who would’ve thunk? But when your heart chooses you just know, right? Will they have their happy ending? You’ll have to read this to find out. If you adore all things love, pet names, hot FF action and a battle for affections this read is for you.
May 10, 2024
Yet another great book as this series continues. I would have loved to have a bit more of Juliette and Ophelia's story, but I have a feeling we will see them again.
Juliette is a princess being forced to do every day her father, King William, demands. Even who she should choose as a mate and when.
Ophelia is a soldier sent to retrieve Juliette and return her to her kingdom. Yet during that time, things happen that change everything.
Now, they must fight to have the freedom to be together or forever be apart. One night can change everything. Will King William forever have his way, or will Juliette finally be free to love as she chooses.
I have loved this series so far, and I love all the main FMC. N. Slater creates a world that can inspire everyone in this series. One of the biggest aspects I have gained from this is that love can and will concure all.
Juliette is a princess being forced to do every day her father, King William, demands. Even who she should choose as a mate and when.
Ophelia is a soldier sent to retrieve Juliette and return her to her kingdom. Yet during that time, things happen that change everything.
Now, they must fight to have the freedom to be together or forever be apart. One night can change everything. Will King William forever have his way, or will Juliette finally be free to love as she chooses.
I have loved this series so far, and I love all the main FMC. N. Slater creates a world that can inspire everyone in this series. One of the biggest aspects I have gained from this is that love can and will concure all.
May 13, 2024
If you like FF Fantasy contemporary romance novellas this is for sure for you!
Hands off is a sweet short novella about a Princess and soldier find love at first sight. Though Princess Juliette’s father doesn’t want to allow this, Ophelia (her knight) decides to fight for her princess’s freedom. Ophelia doesn’t care about trying to win her hand, she just wants Juliette to be able to choose who she wants to be with.
This novella is action-packed, with a sweet romance story, the perfect amount of spice and characters that you’ll love.
I LOVE that this was about the freedom to choose love and be who you want to be.
Hands off is a sweet short novella about a Princess and soldier find love at first sight. Though Princess Juliette’s father doesn’t want to allow this, Ophelia (her knight) decides to fight for her princess’s freedom. Ophelia doesn’t care about trying to win her hand, she just wants Juliette to be able to choose who she wants to be with.
This novella is action-packed, with a sweet romance story, the perfect amount of spice and characters that you’ll love.
I LOVE that this was about the freedom to choose love and be who you want to be.
May 16, 2024
I loved the way Ophelia fought for Juliette’s freedom to be able to love who she wants it was so amazing and heartwarming 🥹 also I love how bratty Juliette is 🤭 but what I love most is that despite her father not wanting this to happen it didn’t stop them from fighting against his wishes so that she could be free!! 😭🥹 this book was really sweet and had a good amount of spice too
I can’t remember how many books this is that I’ve read from N Slater but she has delivered on all of them so far including this one :D
This was an arc given to me by N Slater <3
I can’t remember how many books this is that I’ve read from N Slater but she has delivered on all of them so far including this one :D
This was an arc given to me by N Slater <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2024
Short, Sweet and Spicy novella! I’m loving the Soldier/Princess couple! Seeing the other characters from the last books is such a nice treat 🥹 can’t wait for the next one!!🥰
Favorite Quote: “Kiss me, Romeo. Kiss me like you mean it. Like you want this.”
Recommend if you like..
- FF
- Soldier FMC
- Bratty Princess
- Forbidden Love
- Forced Proximity
- Love at first sight
ALSO THE DEDICATION??
“To all those who fight for the ones they love”
My favorite one so far.
(I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review)
Favorite Quote: “Kiss me, Romeo. Kiss me like you mean it. Like you want this.”
Recommend if you like..
- FF
- Soldier FMC
- Bratty Princess
- Forbidden Love
- Forced Proximity
- Love at first sight
ALSO THE DEDICATION??
“To all those who fight for the ones they love”
My favorite one so far.
(I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review)
May 14, 2024
This was such a sweet, easy-read of a unique fairytale. I do wish there was a little bit of a backstory of both characters for additional context as the beginning felt a little disorientating, but that quickly passed.
If you don’t like insta-love or close to it I’d think about skipping this book honestly. I know that’s a big trope for a lot of people and it’s not one that I minded at all! It was done with just the perfect amount of spice and sweetness, and left me absolutely wanting more of those moments. So even if you’re unsure, I’d give it a shot, it may surprise you.
I really enjoyed the premise of the story, as well as the little world building that there was. I would have loved more of it, but the ups and downs of the two women certainty kept me reading as fast as I could. The cast of characters was fairly diverse and it was nice to see the two build connections outside of one another as well as how each person interacted with one another.
All together this was a short and delicious story that left me re-imagining all the fairytales to be sapphic
If you don’t like insta-love or close to it I’d think about skipping this book honestly. I know that’s a big trope for a lot of people and it’s not one that I minded at all! It was done with just the perfect amount of spice and sweetness, and left me absolutely wanting more of those moments. So even if you’re unsure, I’d give it a shot, it may surprise you.
I really enjoyed the premise of the story, as well as the little world building that there was. I would have loved more of it, but the ups and downs of the two women certainty kept me reading as fast as I could. The cast of characters was fairly diverse and it was nice to see the two build connections outside of one another as well as how each person interacted with one another.
All together this was a short and delicious story that left me re-imagining all the fairytales to be sapphic
May 13, 2024
Omg!!! LOVED THIS BOOK!! N. Slater, you AMAZING human!!! You did it once again! Ophelia and Juliette’s chemistry was SPICY. And the way Ophelia fought for her love was just heartwarming. And the Juliette stood up to her father was incredible. Definitely something I would read over and over again and not get tired of it.
May 4, 2024
This was a quite sweet story. Lovers that fight for each other overcome their obstacles.
I love the bratiness in Juliette and the pure determination in Ophelia.
It was, as always, a great job from N Slater, haven't seen yet a book from her that I read and I didn't like from the very first page.
I love the bratiness in Juliette and the pure determination in Ophelia.
It was, as always, a great job from N Slater, haven't seen yet a book from her that I read and I didn't like from the very first page.
May 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️
This was a very short and sweet sapphic read. I loved the knight and shining armor feel. I loved Juliette’s bratty nature. The most impactful thing was how their loved prevailed all challenges. I can’t wait for the next book.<3
🌶️
This was a very short and sweet sapphic read. I loved the knight and shining armor feel. I loved Juliette’s bratty nature. The most impactful thing was how their loved prevailed all challenges. I can’t wait for the next book.<3
May 6, 2024
This sweet novella gave me all the feels! This was a quick read and kept me entranced! If you want a book that will give you a fast burn love story (FF) then definitely check this out!!
May 8, 2024
This is a very sweet story!
A sapphic soldier/princess forbidden romance story. This is a short story, and everything is in the fast lane, despite that it feels like a full-length novel. That's due to the fact that the characters still deal and work with the consequences of their actions and the established rules in the kingdoms. There isn't a magical fix-it-all with no harm solution. Don't worry, the story does end on a happy end. But the two fmc have to fight for it!
A sapphic soldier/princess forbidden romance story. This is a short story, and everything is in the fast lane, despite that it feels like a full-length novel. That's due to the fact that the characters still deal and work with the consequences of their actions and the established rules in the kingdoms. There isn't a magical fix-it-all with no harm solution. Don't worry, the story does end on a happy end. But the two fmc have to fight for it!
March 9, 2026
Cute little love story…
A cute little love story between two people that may not be meant to be together. You’ll have to read this to find out.
A cute little love story between two people that may not be meant to be together. You’ll have to read this to find out.
February 18, 2026
4.75 Stars
Never was a story of more woe, than of Juliette and her Romeo. Okay, maybe not all woe. I was introduced to N. Slater’s writing last summer and their writing is as entertaining and unique as they are themselves. When I got the opportunity to listen to a sapphic audiobook by Slater, I was excited to start. I devoured it in no time. Hands Off is a novella and the audiobook was under three hours, but I honestly felt like this was a full novel. It begins in the middle of things and has the reader immediately launched in the start of the relationship between these two women. But the rest of the novella had me hooked into the action. I know that Slater writes mostly MM or polyam relationships, but I am always a fan of their sapphic stories as well. How could I not be drawn in by a female soldier named Ophelia and a princess named Juliette (that calls Ophelia Romeo). What I found really interesting is that the issues didn’t come from the queer relationship, but rather a relationship between a princess and someone deemed not worthy her royal status. I really didn’t want to stop listening and now that I am aware of this series, I will be going back to check out the other books.
This audiobook was narrated by Dani Staro as Juliette and Rachel Dane as Ophelia. Staro continues to shock me at the characters she voices. I have listened to multiple books narrated by her and this might be my favorite performance. She brought Juliette to life as the princess that wants love over her royal status. She did perfect at the beginning, portraying the brattier nature of the princess, through to the middle/end where she was more subdued. This was the first book I have listened to with Dane and thought she did a great job giving life to Ophelia. The voice embodied the strong and passionate warrior.
I really loved listening to this book. It had love, passion, angst, action, and strong ladies that fight for what their heart desires. Even with all of that, there is still time for plenty of spicy good times between these ladies. One thing I really loved was the addition of a specific “piece of equipment” that we don’t see as often in sapphic books but see in many sapphic relationships. Slater did a fantastic job of fitting a whole adventure into a short novella. I was definitely a fan of this book and look forward to going back and reading the rest of the series.
Never was a story of more woe, than of Juliette and her Romeo. Okay, maybe not all woe. I was introduced to N. Slater’s writing last summer and their writing is as entertaining and unique as they are themselves. When I got the opportunity to listen to a sapphic audiobook by Slater, I was excited to start. I devoured it in no time. Hands Off is a novella and the audiobook was under three hours, but I honestly felt like this was a full novel. It begins in the middle of things and has the reader immediately launched in the start of the relationship between these two women. But the rest of the novella had me hooked into the action. I know that Slater writes mostly MM or polyam relationships, but I am always a fan of their sapphic stories as well. How could I not be drawn in by a female soldier named Ophelia and a princess named Juliette (that calls Ophelia Romeo). What I found really interesting is that the issues didn’t come from the queer relationship, but rather a relationship between a princess and someone deemed not worthy her royal status. I really didn’t want to stop listening and now that I am aware of this series, I will be going back to check out the other books.
This audiobook was narrated by Dani Staro as Juliette and Rachel Dane as Ophelia. Staro continues to shock me at the characters she voices. I have listened to multiple books narrated by her and this might be my favorite performance. She brought Juliette to life as the princess that wants love over her royal status. She did perfect at the beginning, portraying the brattier nature of the princess, through to the middle/end where she was more subdued. This was the first book I have listened to with Dane and thought she did a great job giving life to Ophelia. The voice embodied the strong and passionate warrior.
I really loved listening to this book. It had love, passion, angst, action, and strong ladies that fight for what their heart desires. Even with all of that, there is still time for plenty of spicy good times between these ladies. One thing I really loved was the addition of a specific “piece of equipment” that we don’t see as often in sapphic books but see in many sapphic relationships. Slater did a fantastic job of fitting a whole adventure into a short novella. I was definitely a fan of this book and look forward to going back and reading the rest of the series.
February 21, 2026
Performance: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤/5
Story:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This was my first book by N. Slater and I loved the world that I was thrown into! Women in places of power and not all men are meant to lead?! Say. Less. Queens defying the norm to marry a partner of their choosing? Yes, please. Plus, we have two incredible narrators bringing this story to life: Dani Staro and Rachel Dane. Dani Staro as Juliette – a rebellious princess who desperately wants to make her own choice when it comes to marriage, but is stifled by her power-hungry father. Dani embodied Juliette’s fun, flirtatious, and optimistic personality, and brought levity and a romantic lens to her role. Rachel Dane brought Ophelia to our listening ears – the steadfast soldier who has nothing to offer the princess of her dreams but her sword, honor, and ability to protect her with all that she is. Dane did a fabulous job embodying Opehlia’s strength, as well as vulnerability in her interactions with Juliette.
🗡️Sapphic Novella
✨Forbidden Romance
🗡️Soldier x Princess
✨Strong FMCs
🗡️Brat Tamer Dynamic
✨Love At First Sight
🗡️Fighting For Her Choice
Days before the yearly gala in Kusovania, soldier Ophelia is sent to retrieve a runaway princess. Little did she know that she’d bump into a ray of sunshine in the form of Princess Juliette…and that chance encounter finds both women feeling too much too soon. Ophelia was supposed to bring Juliette back untouched, but that task feels impossible. Juliette’s father plans to give her hand to the highest bidder, but that takes away Juliette’s choice – something Ophelia can’t stand idly by and allow…
This little novella packed in so much in a short time! I was rooting for Ophelia and Juliette to be able to obtain their happiness, and the road to getting there wasn’t easy. Ophelia was everything you want in a soldier – strong, determined, respectful, and adept at whatever she sets her mind to *wink wink*. Ophelia balanced out Juliette, who needed a firm hand at times 😉 The instalust was spicy, and when things transitioned to love, the heartwarming feels kicked in! I enjoyed the cameos by other characters within the series and now want their stories!
Story:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This was my first book by N. Slater and I loved the world that I was thrown into! Women in places of power and not all men are meant to lead?! Say. Less. Queens defying the norm to marry a partner of their choosing? Yes, please. Plus, we have two incredible narrators bringing this story to life: Dani Staro and Rachel Dane. Dani Staro as Juliette – a rebellious princess who desperately wants to make her own choice when it comes to marriage, but is stifled by her power-hungry father. Dani embodied Juliette’s fun, flirtatious, and optimistic personality, and brought levity and a romantic lens to her role. Rachel Dane brought Ophelia to our listening ears – the steadfast soldier who has nothing to offer the princess of her dreams but her sword, honor, and ability to protect her with all that she is. Dane did a fabulous job embodying Opehlia’s strength, as well as vulnerability in her interactions with Juliette.
🗡️Sapphic Novella
✨Forbidden Romance
🗡️Soldier x Princess
✨Strong FMCs
🗡️Brat Tamer Dynamic
✨Love At First Sight
🗡️Fighting For Her Choice
Days before the yearly gala in Kusovania, soldier Ophelia is sent to retrieve a runaway princess. Little did she know that she’d bump into a ray of sunshine in the form of Princess Juliette…and that chance encounter finds both women feeling too much too soon. Ophelia was supposed to bring Juliette back untouched, but that task feels impossible. Juliette’s father plans to give her hand to the highest bidder, but that takes away Juliette’s choice – something Ophelia can’t stand idly by and allow…
This little novella packed in so much in a short time! I was rooting for Ophelia and Juliette to be able to obtain their happiness, and the road to getting there wasn’t easy. Ophelia was everything you want in a soldier – strong, determined, respectful, and adept at whatever she sets her mind to *wink wink*. Ophelia balanced out Juliette, who needed a firm hand at times 😉 The instalust was spicy, and when things transitioned to love, the heartwarming feels kicked in! I enjoyed the cameos by other characters within the series and now want their stories!
February 21, 2026
Sweet Sapphic Fantasy with Real Stakes
Overall this was an enjoyable, fluffy but high-stakes fantasy romance with a satisfying payoff.
This was such a cute, fast-paced novella with real heart. Ophelia, a warrior sworn to protect her kingdom, and Princess Juliette fall hard and fast, and their forbidden love had me hooked straight away. It gives strong Romeo and Juliet vibes, but with a warm, hopeful tone and a guaranteed HEA.
The spice was lighter than what I usually read, around 2 to 2.5, and while I would not have minded a little more, what was there was fun and fit the pacing well. What stood out most was how sweet and protective their relationship felt, especially with Ophelia fighting for Juliette’s right to choose her own future.
I jumped in at Book 3 of the Mated Queens and still followed the story well, but I do think I would have appreciated the worldbuilding and side characters more if I had started with the earlier books. Even so, it works as a standalone and left me wanting to explore the rest of the series.
Overall this was an enjoyable, fluffy but high-stakes fantasy romance with a satisfying payoff.
This was such a cute, fast-paced novella with real heart. Ophelia, a warrior sworn to protect her kingdom, and Princess Juliette fall hard and fast, and their forbidden love had me hooked straight away. It gives strong Romeo and Juliet vibes, but with a warm, hopeful tone and a guaranteed HEA.
The spice was lighter than what I usually read, around 2 to 2.5, and while I would not have minded a little more, what was there was fun and fit the pacing well. What stood out most was how sweet and protective their relationship felt, especially with Ophelia fighting for Juliette’s right to choose her own future.
I jumped in at Book 3 of the Mated Queens and still followed the story well, but I do think I would have appreciated the worldbuilding and side characters more if I had started with the earlier books. Even so, it works as a standalone and left me wanting to explore the rest of the series.
February 17, 2026
ALC Review:
Duet Narration by Dani Staro and Rachel Dano
Tropes:
Princess x Solider
Forbidden Sapphic love
Love vs tradition
This fantasy romance centers on a soldier sent on what should be a simple mission — retrieving a runaway princess — that quickly becomes a journey of heart and conviction. I loved seeing the contrast between Princess Juliette’s gentle brightness and Ophelia’s steadfast devotion as her protector. Though short, the novella leaves a lasting impression with its uplifting message about claiming your identity and choosing your own future.
Dani Staro’s portrayal of Juliette feels radiant and sincere, conveying her kindness and quiet courage beautifully. Rachel Dano embodies Ophelia with a steady, protective energy that makes her devotion feel palpable. Their voices complement each other wonderfully, making every interaction feel intimate and authentic.
Huge thanks to Dani Staro and the author for this ALC.
Duet Narration by Dani Staro and Rachel Dano
Tropes:
Princess x Solider
Forbidden Sapphic love
Love vs tradition
This fantasy romance centers on a soldier sent on what should be a simple mission — retrieving a runaway princess — that quickly becomes a journey of heart and conviction. I loved seeing the contrast between Princess Juliette’s gentle brightness and Ophelia’s steadfast devotion as her protector. Though short, the novella leaves a lasting impression with its uplifting message about claiming your identity and choosing your own future.
Dani Staro’s portrayal of Juliette feels radiant and sincere, conveying her kindness and quiet courage beautifully. Rachel Dano embodies Ophelia with a steady, protective energy that makes her devotion feel palpable. Their voices complement each other wonderfully, making every interaction feel intimate and authentic.
Huge thanks to Dani Staro and the author for this ALC.
May 12, 2024
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️.5
The only thing that's standing between a princess and a soldier is tradition. So the Soldier decides to change tradition.
A very sweet FF romance between Princess Juliette and the Soldier Ophelia, nicknamed Romeo. Being in a really controlled position, their attraction seems to be a mission impossible.
A short novella with lots of action, I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to taste a lighter FF romance. Really well written, it reads itself and above all, it's conclusion leaves an open thread to connect the next standalone in the series without a major cliffhanger.
Book 3 in the Mated Queens series by N Slater can be read on its own. Whilst in the same multiverse as the other characters, it has enough introduction and character development that you'll know what you're reading all throughout.
Spice: 🌶️.5
The only thing that's standing between a princess and a soldier is tradition. So the Soldier decides to change tradition.
A very sweet FF romance between Princess Juliette and the Soldier Ophelia, nicknamed Romeo. Being in a really controlled position, their attraction seems to be a mission impossible.
A short novella with lots of action, I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to taste a lighter FF romance. Really well written, it reads itself and above all, it's conclusion leaves an open thread to connect the next standalone in the series without a major cliffhanger.
Book 3 in the Mated Queens series by N Slater can be read on its own. Whilst in the same multiverse as the other characters, it has enough introduction and character development that you'll know what you're reading all throughout.
May 14, 2024
I have not read many f/f romance stories but thos is by far one of my favs. It pulled at my heart strings and made my whole body burn at the powerful love for eachother.
I loved the fact it was female mates that the princess had to choose, it was very refreshing from the usual man and woman mating.
The connection both sweet and steamy between the princess and her now protecter was perfect. Their chemisty made me instantly fall in love with them. Love at first sight as whole new powerful meaning in this story.
The way her brave soldier rose to the challenge to fight not only for her love for her princess but for her freedom of choice too.
This was such a beautful story that really melted my heart into puddle in my chest. Even the bond the soldier has with her brothers is so sweet.
Highly recommend this book if you are into f/f romance.
I loved the fact it was female mates that the princess had to choose, it was very refreshing from the usual man and woman mating.
The connection both sweet and steamy between the princess and her now protecter was perfect. Their chemisty made me instantly fall in love with them. Love at first sight as whole new powerful meaning in this story.
The way her brave soldier rose to the challenge to fight not only for her love for her princess but for her freedom of choice too.
This was such a beautful story that really melted my heart into puddle in my chest. Even the bond the soldier has with her brothers is so sweet.
Highly recommend this book if you are into f/f romance.
May 7, 2024
Hands Off is another sweet, sapphic, short but action-packed novella by N. Slater in which Princess Juliette and Ophelia, a soldier in charge of retrieving and protecting her, find love at first sight. In it we see them both give into their passion while trying to find a way to prevent Juliette from being married off. I love how Juliette is sassy, and bratty but falls so deeply in love with Ophelia. On the other hand, Ophelia is strong, dominant, and will do anything and everything to protect Juliette. We also get to see character appearances from the previous 2 installments which I always love. The novella is definitely steamy but with a great balance of spice and plot. An excellent palate cleanser full of passion, charming characters, suspense, and true love.
May 14, 2024
I've been on N Slater's dark romance side of her books but really wanted to read Hands Off. I am now a HUGE fan of her fantasy side!
I will say her versatility when it comes to writing books that appease all of her readers still blows my mind. Hands off was such a good read for me. I loved Nic's fantasy take on it. Juliette and Ophelia made me fall in love. It really gave me Romeo and Juliet vibes with the character names, and I loved that it was different with a soldier/princess taboo romance, both being females! Great storyline, pretty quick read (a little over 100 pages), but 10/10 world-building, amazing characters and another 5 star read by Nic! Can't wait to dive into her next book soon!
I will say her versatility when it comes to writing books that appease all of her readers still blows my mind. Hands off was such a good read for me. I loved Nic's fantasy take on it. Juliette and Ophelia made me fall in love. It really gave me Romeo and Juliet vibes with the character names, and I loved that it was different with a soldier/princess taboo romance, both being females! Great storyline, pretty quick read (a little over 100 pages), but 10/10 world-building, amazing characters and another 5 star read by Nic! Can't wait to dive into her next book soon!
February 15, 2026
Forbidden Romance
Sapphic romance
Fantasy
Dual POV - 1st person
Duet narration - Dani Staro & Rachel Dane
These are two of my favorite female narrators so I just knew this one was going to be good. These two are fantastic. Dani has such a sweet voice and mixed with Rachel's slightly darker deeper voice. I loved their performance.
Princess Juliette is being paraded around to find a husband by her father the king. Only wanting to be with Ophelia despite it being forbidden. This is a short and sweet romance. A sapphic romeo and juliet feel. Right from the beginning I was rooting for them to figure their situation out and to just run away.
This fast paced sweet story is easy to follow and captivating. Overall, A good and fun audiobook.
Sapphic romance
Fantasy
Dual POV - 1st person
Duet narration - Dani Staro & Rachel Dane
These are two of my favorite female narrators so I just knew this one was going to be good. These two are fantastic. Dani has such a sweet voice and mixed with Rachel's slightly darker deeper voice. I loved their performance.
Princess Juliette is being paraded around to find a husband by her father the king. Only wanting to be with Ophelia despite it being forbidden. This is a short and sweet romance. A sapphic romeo and juliet feel. Right from the beginning I was rooting for them to figure their situation out and to just run away.
This fast paced sweet story is easy to follow and captivating. Overall, A good and fun audiobook.
May 10, 2024
4 stars. This was great. This series is a lot of fun. Sexy, romantic, and the leads are likable and strong. Ophelia is Princess Juliette’s guard and the two have been sneaking around. I loved the chemistry between them and how Ophelia was willing to do whatever it took to not only keep Juliette safe but to keep her happy as well. She’s a badass character. Juliette was sweet with a hint of brattiness to her and I thought she was perfect for Ophelia. Great read and I’m so excited for Queen Helvania’s story next.
May 28, 2024
This book like the rest of the series was great.
Ophelia and Juliette fall head over heels for one another when Ophelia is sent to retrieve the runaway princess. Juliette is desperately trying to hold on to what autonomy she has knowing her father seeks to use her as a pawn to strengthen his kingdom.
This book has a lovely world that's super queer positive and even has poly representation (their story is book 2, I highly recommend it). This world is one where people can love openly and freely and where people's wants and needs of the heart matter even amongst nobility
Ophelia and Juliette fall head over heels for one another when Ophelia is sent to retrieve the runaway princess. Juliette is desperately trying to hold on to what autonomy she has knowing her father seeks to use her as a pawn to strengthen his kingdom.
This book has a lovely world that's super queer positive and even has poly representation (their story is book 2, I highly recommend it). This world is one where people can love openly and freely and where people's wants and needs of the heart matter even amongst nobility
April 22, 2024
Hands Off, Book 3 of Mated Queens Series, by N. Slater @slater.47. First off, I am a fan of Nic’s & this book was no different!
I loved Ophelia & Juliette’s story! As always, anything by Nic is fantastic. We caught up with the prior book's characters (which I am a fan of!). If you like FF, contemporary fantasy, strong MCs, & a commoner winning the hand of a royal, this book is for you!
I received this book early and I am freely leaving my honest review.
I loved Ophelia & Juliette’s story! As always, anything by Nic is fantastic. We caught up with the prior book's characters (which I am a fan of!). If you like FF, contemporary fantasy, strong MCs, & a commoner winning the hand of a royal, this book is for you!
I received this book early and I am freely leaving my honest review.
February 17, 2026
*ALC review*
Dani Staro & Rachel Danevo did such an amazing job on this duet narration!
🖤duet narration
🖤dual POV
🖤strong FMC’s
Dani as Juliette
Rachel as Ophelia
Both FMC were powerful characters. My heart hurt for Ophelia at times and what all she went through just to make sure Juliette had a say in what happens in her life
This was my first N. Slater book and definitely won’t be my last🫶🏼
Dani Staro & Rachel Danevo did such an amazing job on this duet narration!
🖤duet narration
🖤dual POV
🖤strong FMC’s
Dani as Juliette
Rachel as Ophelia
Both FMC were powerful characters. My heart hurt for Ophelia at times and what all she went through just to make sure Juliette had a say in what happens in her life
This was my first N. Slater book and definitely won’t be my last🫶🏼
February 18, 2026
This is a first for me. I listened to the audiobook and DanI and Rachel did an incredible job bringing this epic love story to life. Forbidden love and fighting for the one you love for their freedom to choose is goals! Ophelia fought admitting her feelings but love made that impossible. Rachel’s Ophelia was perfection. Dani plays the perfect princess, Juliette. She knew everything was against them, her father, her country... it was decently spicy which was enjoyable.
May 7, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this heartwarming story about two lovers who overcame their obstacles and fought for each other. I loved Juliette's spunky attitude and Ophelia's unwavering determination. As always, N Slater did an excellent job with this book. I have yet to read a book by her that I didn't like from the very first page.
February 18, 2026
The audiobook is amazing! The narrators did a fantastic job! The love story between princess Juliette and Soldier Ophelia (Romeo) is one of Trial and Tribulation. Juliette father, king William, will stop at nothing to prevent his Daughter from choosing Ophelia. Perfect little quick book, and great story building. This is a FF Fantasy Romance Novella.
May 8, 2024
Hands Off is a forbidden tale of a princess and a foreign country's soldier. This is a sapphic, contemporary fantasy novella that challenges todays stereotypes. Follow our bratty Juliette and her determined Romeo in a fast burn, sweet story (and find out why dresses are preferred 😉).
December 14, 2025
this was my first sapphic and I really enjoyed it. the pain of not having a choice and what you truly want not being able to be obtained. Ophelia is a baddie and I absolutely love her. having to fight through everything just to give Juliette the choice? yea. 👌
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