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Belikarian Weddings #1
One Choice
Cahri Michaels is American by birth, but Belikarian by choice. Being selected to participate in the Bridal March forces her to give up the independent life she’s created for herself. She’s not ready to be anyone’s wife, much less to a man she doesn’t know.
Prince Josiah Vallis despises the century’s old tradition—the Bridal March—that is forcing him to choose a wife from fifty women. Why does it matter that he’s twenty-five and still single?
When Cahri and Josiah meet, passion ignites. Will it spark a godly love that can see them through or will they be burned…. never to be the same?
Prince Josiah Vallis despises the century’s old tradition—the Bridal March—that is forcing him to choose a wife from fifty women. Why does it matter that he’s twenty-five and still single?
When Cahri and Josiah meet, passion ignites. Will it spark a godly love that can see them through or will they be burned…. never to be the same?
- GenresChristian FictionRomance
289 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2014
17 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Ginger Solomon
25 books31 followersGinger Solomon is a Christian, a wife, a mother to seven, and a writer—in that order (mostly). When she's not homeschooling, doing laundry, or fixing dinner, she writes or reads romance of any genre. She’s president of her local writing group and writes regularly for two blogs.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
November 28, 2022
Nice debut
I enjoyed this story. It frustrated me at times because some of the reactions seemed a little over the top, especially by Josiah, but I can't really explain much without spoilers, and I hate to do that.
The story was clean, for the most part. There was no swearing and had a lot of Christian content. I was a little put off by the intensity of some of the romance scenes. Nothing inappropriate ever happened, but if you're sensitive to that, know it could be an issue.
I absolutely LOVE royal romances, and this one didn't disappoint. I do recommend it to a bit of an older audience due to some of the things I already mentioned, and there were some potentially triggering moments in it that might be too much for some.
Recommended to those who enjoy royal romances and Christian romance.
I enjoyed this story. It frustrated me at times because some of the reactions seemed a little over the top, especially by Josiah, but I can't really explain much without spoilers, and I hate to do that.
The story was clean, for the most part. There was no swearing and had a lot of Christian content. I was a little put off by the intensity of some of the romance scenes. Nothing inappropriate ever happened, but if you're sensitive to that, know it could be an issue.
I absolutely LOVE royal romances, and this one didn't disappoint. I do recommend it to a bit of an older audience due to some of the things I already mentioned, and there were some potentially triggering moments in it that might be too much for some.
Recommended to those who enjoy royal romances and Christian romance.
March 15, 2014
If the Crown Prince of Belikara has not married by his 25th birthday, the Bridal March is called upon to force his selection of a suitable bride. Prince Josiah tries to talk his father out of it, but the King has ruled, and Josiah must abide by the results as 50 women are summoned to the palace, his guests for six months.
Cahri Michaels, half Belikaran and half American, has lived alone working for the same mission her parents did. Her trust in God suffered a severe blow upon their deaths three years ago. The last thing in the world she wants is to have her freedom of choice removed, but that's exactly what happens when she's one of the women chosen to participate in the Bridal March.
Her choices: participate or die. Win, or be exiled.
This turns out to be a Survivor-type affair, where women who are deemed unsuitable are turned away throughout the six-month period as they're submitted to various trials. But on Cahri's first glimpse of the Crown Prince, her attitude changes as she recognizes in him the man she'd bumped into (literally) in the market a few weeks before and felt an attraction to. She's certain he could never want a red-headed wife when Belikaran women are dark.
However, Josiah had also felt the attraction. Now he'd choose Cahri in an instant if his father would let him, but the Bridal March must go on. As the story went on, I frequently wanted to give Prince Josiah a royal shake and tell him to get over himself, while at other times he seemed a reasonably mature Christian. Cahri's spiritual path followed a more logical progression.
Ms. Solomon has a unique story in One Choice, full of privilege, passion, and massive misunderstandings. If you enjoy contemporary romance with fantasy undertones and opulent settings, give One Choice a try.
Cahri Michaels, half Belikaran and half American, has lived alone working for the same mission her parents did. Her trust in God suffered a severe blow upon their deaths three years ago. The last thing in the world she wants is to have her freedom of choice removed, but that's exactly what happens when she's one of the women chosen to participate in the Bridal March.
Her choices: participate or die. Win, or be exiled.
This turns out to be a Survivor-type affair, where women who are deemed unsuitable are turned away throughout the six-month period as they're submitted to various trials. But on Cahri's first glimpse of the Crown Prince, her attitude changes as she recognizes in him the man she'd bumped into (literally) in the market a few weeks before and felt an attraction to. She's certain he could never want a red-headed wife when Belikaran women are dark.
However, Josiah had also felt the attraction. Now he'd choose Cahri in an instant if his father would let him, but the Bridal March must go on. As the story went on, I frequently wanted to give Prince Josiah a royal shake and tell him to get over himself, while at other times he seemed a reasonably mature Christian. Cahri's spiritual path followed a more logical progression.
Ms. Solomon has a unique story in One Choice, full of privilege, passion, and massive misunderstandings. If you enjoy contemporary romance with fantasy undertones and opulent settings, give One Choice a try.
June 14, 2014
Cahri lives a life of solitude. Her parents died three years ago, her brother lives in France, and she lives in a country where she looks different from everyone else. She has red hair and green eyes, the people she lives around have olive complexions and brown hair. She has lived her life wishing she fit in instead of celebrating her uniqueness.
At the store, she literally bumps into a handsome man. From the moment they met, there was instant attraction. Neither guessed that their paths would cross again in a unique situation.
Prince Josiah is twenty-five and single. His father brings back an old custom, the bridal march. Fifty young women are brought to the palace, the prince has 6 months to choose one of the girls to marry.
Cahri and Prince Josiah are astonished as they recognize each other from their encounter in the store. For both of them, there is only one choice, each other.
There were many aspects of the story that I liked. Cahri is struggling with her relationships. Her relationship with her fellow men, and her relationship with God. This book is her journey to opening her heart to people and diety. It isn't easy for her. Josiah also has wounds that he has to overcome in order for them to come together in harmony.
At times the story lagged for me. It seemed to clomp along and I had to struggle through to get to a part where the story picked up.
This book is clean for adults. There is some sexual innuendo and lots of kissing.
At the store, she literally bumps into a handsome man. From the moment they met, there was instant attraction. Neither guessed that their paths would cross again in a unique situation.
Prince Josiah is twenty-five and single. His father brings back an old custom, the bridal march. Fifty young women are brought to the palace, the prince has 6 months to choose one of the girls to marry.
Cahri and Prince Josiah are astonished as they recognize each other from their encounter in the store. For both of them, there is only one choice, each other.
There were many aspects of the story that I liked. Cahri is struggling with her relationships. Her relationship with her fellow men, and her relationship with God. This book is her journey to opening her heart to people and diety. It isn't easy for her. Josiah also has wounds that he has to overcome in order for them to come together in harmony.
At times the story lagged for me. It seemed to clomp along and I had to struggle through to get to a part where the story picked up.
This book is clean for adults. There is some sexual innuendo and lots of kissing.
March 7, 2014
One Choice, Ginger Solomon's debut novel, is one of a kind. An engaging tale with a unique setting. I don't believe I've read another like it.
Chari Michaels lives alone in Belikara with Stormy, her cat, for family. Her parents are dead and her brother Paul resides in France.
When Chari collides with a tall, good-looking stranger in the market and remarks about his clumsiness in her native English, she never dreams the handsome guy will understand her. She works her way out of the ill-spoken word by saying she was talking about herself.
Later when she's summoned by the King to join in the Bridal March to find the Prince a wife, she's startled to discover the Prince is the handsome stranger from the market.
The story is set at the King's Palace in Belikara. The date is March 2011 but every other aspect of the story speaks of another era—perhaps the days of the Knights of the Round table.
Part of the story seemed to transport me to the Biblical books of Esther or Song of Solomon. Another felt like the fairy tale Cinderella.
For those who love romance, Once Choice gets steamy, though the characters are married. Anyone who likes contemporary romance with a flavor of old world Europe will love this story.
Chari Michaels lives alone in Belikara with Stormy, her cat, for family. Her parents are dead and her brother Paul resides in France.
When Chari collides with a tall, good-looking stranger in the market and remarks about his clumsiness in her native English, she never dreams the handsome guy will understand her. She works her way out of the ill-spoken word by saying she was talking about herself.
Later when she's summoned by the King to join in the Bridal March to find the Prince a wife, she's startled to discover the Prince is the handsome stranger from the market.
The story is set at the King's Palace in Belikara. The date is March 2011 but every other aspect of the story speaks of another era—perhaps the days of the Knights of the Round table.
Part of the story seemed to transport me to the Biblical books of Esther or Song of Solomon. Another felt like the fairy tale Cinderella.
For those who love romance, Once Choice gets steamy, though the characters are married. Anyone who likes contemporary romance with a flavor of old world Europe will love this story.
February 9, 2014
I couldn’t put this book down. The story and the passion were captivating. The passion was more than mere romance—there was a passion for life, for love, and for God.
Happily ever never had so many twists or so much pain. If the Bridal March were on TV it would be a reality show to rival The Bachelor and Secret Princes. The main difference is that the author has made sure that her characters, while obviously dealing with their flaws, fears, and baggage, are also seeking to be honest and compassionate.
The story is called "One Choice" but there are many choices made throughout, with love and forgiveness being the most difficult ones to make and keep.
I'm not sure if the moral of the story is to be careful who you bump into at the grocery, or that love and morality aren't just for fairy tales. Either way, this is a delightful read and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Happily ever never had so many twists or so much pain. If the Bridal March were on TV it would be a reality show to rival The Bachelor and Secret Princes. The main difference is that the author has made sure that her characters, while obviously dealing with their flaws, fears, and baggage, are also seeking to be honest and compassionate.
The story is called "One Choice" but there are many choices made throughout, with love and forgiveness being the most difficult ones to make and keep.
I'm not sure if the moral of the story is to be careful who you bump into at the grocery, or that love and morality aren't just for fairy tales. Either way, this is a delightful read and I look forward to reading more from this author.
March 10, 2014
This is an interesting modern-day twist on the typically historical romance where a woman is forced into a royal marriage only to find true love at the end of the day.
It also highlights the problems of relationships that are based on physical attraction without the benefit of learning first to be friends with one another. Though the characters do, eventually, develop a semblance of a friendship, I spent the bulk of the book wanting to throttle both of them for being pig-headed and refusing even the basic level of communication that most people manage to have with the cashier at the grocery store.
But what I did love was seeing Cahri deal with her anger at God and find her way back to Him. That character growth and redemptive love story is what kept the pages turning from start to end.
It also highlights the problems of relationships that are based on physical attraction without the benefit of learning first to be friends with one another. Though the characters do, eventually, develop a semblance of a friendship, I spent the bulk of the book wanting to throttle both of them for being pig-headed and refusing even the basic level of communication that most people manage to have with the cashier at the grocery store.
But what I did love was seeing Cahri deal with her anger at God and find her way back to Him. That character growth and redemptive love story is what kept the pages turning from start to end.
April 12, 2014
I was drawn into this book from the first. The story and setting I found to be very unique, as well as the major plot line. I found myself often forgetting that it was a modern day setting because of the cultural differences. The book is well-crafted, with the writing done smoothly and with great skill. The characters were strong and felt real. The only thing holding me back from 5 stars is the slow growth of the two main characters. While realistically flawed, I'd have like to see them grow a bit more with each hurdle to cross. I'd also have liked the main female lead to be a bit less weepy. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and it was one I finished within a couple days of starting. I'd highly recommend this book!
March 9, 2014
One Choice grabbed me on page one, and I didn't want to put it down. It's one of the best stories I've ever read. I wish it came in paper back because when I enjoy a story as much as I did this one I like to have it in print.
A unique, romantic story, riddled with tension, suspense, and true love.
Way to go, Ginger Solomon!
This book was provided to me for the purpose of reviewing. I was not required to give a positive review.
A unique, romantic story, riddled with tension, suspense, and true love.
Way to go, Ginger Solomon!
This book was provided to me for the purpose of reviewing. I was not required to give a positive review.
May 14, 2014
My favorite thing about One Choice by Ginger Solomon was the characters. I felt deeply for Cahri, and I even loved the prince's serious but wise sister Anaya. While it was hard in the beginning to accept that Cahri was a strongly independent woman who went willingly into the bridal march, the story quickly whisked me away.
June 17, 2014
I totally enjoy this book. I could not put it down. Once I started I had to continue to finish and than I wanted to read it again. It is very unique. It has love, pushing through pain and forgiveness. I recommend it 100%.
April 5, 2019
Josiah is forced to go through with the tradition of the Bridal March since he’s become of age, and due to the unfortunate loss of his brother, the next in line for the throne. Cahri is one of the fifty women chosen to participate. A matter of which she is not happy about when she learns of it. Through the course of the book, women are eliminated and Cahri becomes more relaxed and accepting. Lovely story that brings to mind, to me anyway, the story of Esther and what she may have gone through at least for the selection process. Likeable characters and very hard to put down. Looking forward to what’s ahead in the series.
February 23, 2022
Good
This has the bones to be an excellent story. It's good, but it's not there yet:
1) typos. Often something in the wrong tense
2) the narrative voice is too American for a story not set in USA
3) some important scenes are not included [spoilers]
.
.
.
.
The formal wedding, the hostage situation, full resolution of Josiah's temper, and (considering how much of the book is them both playing cat-and-mouse with their sexual desires...) their wedding night.
All that said, for all 3 reasons combined I can only deduct 1 star. The story is exciting. It's good, but it could be excellent.
This has the bones to be an excellent story. It's good, but it's not there yet:
1) typos. Often something in the wrong tense
2) the narrative voice is too American for a story not set in USA
3) some important scenes are not included [spoilers]
.
.
.
.
The formal wedding, the hostage situation, full resolution of Josiah's temper, and (considering how much of the book is them both playing cat-and-mouse with their sexual desires...) their wedding night.
All that said, for all 3 reasons combined I can only deduct 1 star. The story is exciting. It's good, but it could be excellent.
July 16, 2019
How can the Belikarian prince choose a wife from fifty strangers? A unique premise to an intriguing romance of hurt, betrayal, and the royal tradition - the Bridal March. Ginger Solomon's romance with its descriptive passages, a glimpse of Turkish cuisine, some unexpected twists, hurt, betrayal, bitterness to God, revenge makes for a page turning read. The tensions and conflicts of characters from two different worlds make for realistic characters. As a woman, I related with Cahri Michael's predicament - will being chosen for the Bridal March be the first day of the end of her life?
April 2, 2018
Great story
A story that @ times seemed similar to the biblical story of Esther. A prince is mandated to choose a wife from among 50 women selected by the castle.
A clean, inspirational story.
A story that @ times seemed similar to the biblical story of Esther. A prince is mandated to choose a wife from among 50 women selected by the castle.
A clean, inspirational story.
July 28, 2023
Great read!
I loved the storyline about the bridal march. Great characters, fell in love with the. Can’t wait to read the next one.
I loved the storyline about the bridal march. Great characters, fell in love with the. Can’t wait to read the next one.
February 15, 2016
This was an enjoyable romance set in a contemporary foreign country. It had a Christian undertone as the characters struggled with their situation but it was believeable. A prince has to choose a wife from a "bridal march" consisting of 50 possible candidates. He and the main female character actually bumped into each other before this and sparks flew. She ends up in the bridal March and then story continues from there. It was a fun read, perfect for a Valentine's Day weekend.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews