Royally Cuffed

by Irene Bahrd

Coming Soon

Genres: Novella

ebook

Published November 29, 2024

About the author

Irene Bahrd is a feisty Capricorn and one of the most avid readers you will ever meet. Her favorite genres to read or write include romantic comedies, political romance, romantasy, and the occasional contemporary dark romance.

She started her writing journey as a dare from a friend, after recounting dating stories from her early twenties. They inspired her to write spicy romantic comedies and parodies that feature a variety of book boyfriends—though most are cinnamon roll golden retrievers. Many of her stories contain LGBTQIA+, disabled, and neurodivergent characters.

Irene can be found on Instagram and TikTok under @irenebahrdauthor

Reviews

[Lora Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a spicy, snowed-in, duchess & her bodyguard rom-com novella. It’s short and hot and is light on plot - in other words, it delivers exactly what it promises and that makes it a 10 in my book. The chemistry between Fiona & Westley (love their names) is exquisite and I love the banter between them. Fiona loves to push Wes’ buttons and he’s not one to back down, coming in hot with some sass of his own.

The Christmas morning scene… dear lord, I’m still giggling at the absolutely ridiculous chain of events that transpired. That’s all I can say without giving something away but trust me when I say page 75 has been read multiple times for … reasons.

Pick this up when you’re in the mood for spicy good fun time with laugh out loud situations.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute, hot, sexy, flirty and fun!

You get a tiny bit of backstory as you go along in this book but Wes and Fiona have had feelings that go beyond professional for YEARS and they make up for it while snowed in together at a cabin.

This little number was so hot and fun! I enjoyed watching their love blossom more once they connected their hearts 🥰

[Emily Johnston (Booked.Up.With.Emily) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this snowed in, bodyguard, pining romance! Wesley and Fiona's characters fit so perfectly together.

❄️Bodyguard x royalty
❄️Snowed in romance
❄️Forced proximity
❄️Mutual pining
❄️Spicy!

Wes and Fi have always had secret feelings for each other. Well now they are snowed in and the tension between them is piping HOT! These two can't control their feelings anymore and it is beautiful to see them give in!

Wes is a strong, possessive type and Fiona is absolutely hilarious with everything that she does. I love how she doesn't take anything too seriously and how she tries to get Wes to break!

Samantha Summers and Marcio Catalano gave these characters a voice and they did a phenomenal job. Both of these narrators are new to me, and I can't wait to listen to more of their work. Samantha brought out the flirty, good time that is Fiona and Marcio deep timber left me panting.

Thank you to High Gravity Productions and the author for the ALC.

[jenniferlea · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
I feel like a broken record sometimes but Irene Bahrd is just one of those authors I could read all the time…I love how she incorporates past characters into new stories…I also love that her books are an easy read….they get right to the point…I love that….no beating around the bush….or was there 😉
Fiona & Westley were conveniently snowed in…only helped things out in the long run….while I’m not a fan of snow (if I have to get out in it) I don’t mind being snowed in a bit….those two turned a slight inconvenience into a dream…I’m ready to possibly see where life takes them in the future

[Booktrovert_reads_romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Duchess and her Bodyguard get snowed in together. So they just lay around watching movies and waiting for the snow to melt………right?

Or do they finally give in and admit that they are both in love with each other?

This is such a cute little Novella for the holidays and colder weather. It definitely doesn’t skimp on the heat!

[Snow · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a wall to wall Christmas smut. There is no story but two people that have been in love with each other for years. It is well written and the characters are likeable. I like the fact that the FMC would act dominant at times.

I received an ARC.

[XenyMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this novella!

Usually, novellas tend to lack on plot, but I get shocked every time I read a novella by Irene, less than 100 pages, and the plot is just as good as the smut.

This novella tells the story of a duchess and her bodyguard, and how they've been secretly in love with each other for years. I absolutely love the friendship between Fiona and Westley. They way they banter and teasers each other, and how this teasing, ignited by their feelings, escalated while they were snowed in in Fi's grandma's holiday home.

The story is short and fast-paced, but it is also super fun, sweet, and spicy.

Quote: “There’s something freeing about giving yourself to someone you trust, letting them do whatever they want to you for their pleasure or yours.”

[Dea Farrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a hot, sweet, spicy novella that you can read in one sitting, Royally Cuffed is the book for you. When a bodyguard and duchess get snowed in together, things heat up, and truths come out. Westley has been Fiona's bodyguard for years, and during that time, they have both been secretly harboring a crush for each other. It's only when they are stranded together during a snowstorm that they finally let each other know how they feel. Fiona is the dominant dirty talker in this one, while Westley continues to take on the caretaker role. This one may not be heavy on the plot, but it's still such a great read. I love Irene's novellas so much!

[Jasmine Acena · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my holiday smut era and I don’t care who knows it. Royally Cuffed follows Fiona and her bestie-turned-bodyguard, Westley, from one side of the pond to the other. They’re snowed in after a faux scandal presents difficulties for Fiona’s family. What are these two left to do whilst in close quarters—bake cookies and decorate for the holidays? I mean, they could but what might help pass the time more easily? 😏 This novella packs a punch, truly. I couldn’t get enough of Fi and her hot bodyguard! These two are fun, the banter is witty and keeps things light, the spice is spicin’. If you’re looking for a quick and steam-filled read this holiday season, I highly recommend Royally Cuffed!

[mkm_bookloverarchivistreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Royally Cuffed ARC Novella is a witty, well-written, and highly enjoyable Rom-com holiday by Irene Bahrd. This holiday story is about a bodyguard and his client with a high level of spice to it. The characters are well developed in this holiday novella. It is, in a sense, a forbidden romance due to Fiona being Wesley’s client. Wes and Fiona have witty banter between them that is delightful to read. I appreciated reading the chapters going from Fiona’s point of you in one and Wesley’s in the next. Unique and interesting love story that’s going on my Christmas list. Tropes to expect are Bodyguard/Royal, Grump/Sunshine, he’s fine, fine holiday fun, and more. If you enjoy high-spice and bodyguard rom-com romances, I highly recommend Irene Bahrd Royally Cuffed, available November 29th, 2024! Treat yourself to a funny and witty holiday novella romcom.

[Audio book lover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Irene Bahrd delivers a fun and sultry royal romance in Royally Cuffed, perfectly balancing smut and story in this bite-sized novella. While the short length limits the depth of the plot, this quick read offers plenty of spice and charm, making it a delightful indulgence for fans of forbidden love and close-quarters tropes.

💘 The Plot:
Fiona is hiding out from the relentless paparazzi when a snowstorm traps her at her family’s holiday retreat with her royal guard, Westley. Fiona has always been in love with Wes but has kept her feelings buried for fear of losing the one person she trusts. Little does she know, Wes has been harboring the same forbidden affections. With nowhere to run and their emotions laid bare, the two must decide whether to uphold their royal responsibilities or risk it all for a chance at love.

🔥 Why You’ll Love It:

Forbidden Love: The tension between duty and desire creates an irresistible, steamy dynamic.
Close Quarters Perfection: A snowed-in holiday home sets the stage for plenty of intimate, romantic moments.
Quick and Spicy: The novella’s length makes it a perfect choice for a fast yet satisfying escape.
Signature Bahrd Style: Fans of Irene Bahrd will appreciate her knack for blending heat and heart.
⏳ What to Keep in Mind:
This is a novella, so don’t expect extensive world-building or intricate character development. Instead, enjoy the story for what it is: a light, steamy read with just enough romance to leave you smiling.

📖 Final Thoughts:
Royally Cuffed is a short, satisfying romance that offers a perfect balance of story and spice. If you’re in the mood for a fast-paced tale of forbidden love with a royal twist, Irene Bahrd delivers exactly what you need. Cozy up, dive in, and let this royal couple warm your heart (and your cheeks)! 👑🔥

Short, Sweet, and Scandalous: Royally Cuffed Is Your Next Quick Escape

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALC provided by High Gravity Productions
Review is voluntary and my honest opinion.

3.75/5 rating
2.5/5 spice
This one is short and spicy; a bodyguard and protectee romance. I definitely laughed quite a bit. It is done in dual narration style, and the narrators were great. Irene Bahrd is really great about choosing narrators who fit her characters, and this was no exception. Pick this up if you're into quick and humorous reads paired with a little angst. The light teasing they do with each other - specifically the grocery list - was my favorite part!

I struggled with "hot and cold" vibes and the "back and forth" in this one. Both characters waffling about in the indecision about whether they wanted to breach the line or not; both pining after the other for apparently years but unwilling to cross the line. I get it was trying to build angst, I was just more annoyed. It is a short book, so I realize there isn't much time to build a ton of angst, but it felt like even up to the decision of "we're crossing the line" felt like they were still undecided. I never had that satisfying moment of both giving in and going for it because they still needed to waffle about continuing after the first time.

Overall, yes, I still recommend this, but I didn't fall in love with the characters like I have on several past books by this author.

[Michelle Peralta · Rating 4 out of 5]

**"Royally Cuffed"** by Irene Bahrd is a sizzling, witty holiday novella that delivers all the steamy goodness you need this season. The story centers around Fiona, a duchess, and her brooding bodyguard Wesley, who share an undeniable chemistry. Despite their relationship being forbidden—he’s her protector and she’s his client—their banter, heat, and close proximity during a snowstorm take things to a whole new level.

Expect plenty of *tropes* to keep things interesting: bodyguard/royal, grumpy/sunshine, close proximity, and lots of spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶. The story alternates between Fiona and Wesley’s perspectives, giving you a peek into their growing attraction and mutual desire. It’s a fast-paced, *hot* read that’s perfect for cozying up with this holiday season.

While the plot is light, the humor, heat, and fun character dynamics more than make up for it. Fiona may come across as a little bratty at first, but as the story unfolds, you’ll see she’s much more than that. If you’re looking for a quick, steamy escape, **"Royally Cuffed"** will definitely heat things up!

Ready for a *royally* hot holiday romance? This one’s going straight to my Christmas list!

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Royally Cuffed
By Irene Bahrd
Narrated by Marcio Catalano, Samantha Summers

Irene Bahrd does it again, delivering a spicy novella with a hint of humor and incredible chemistry. Fiona, the duchess is hiding from the paparazzi, with her bodyguard Westley. Snowed in, the two finally let the sparks ignite and their time together is HOT! Just long enough, it, it shows just how brazen Fiona is as she send Wes to the store with a list including some surprising items. And then just how playful Wes can be as shows he what he bought! This is a fun listen and one that is perfect for the my walk!

Marcio Catalano and Samatha Summers melt the snow as they bring the heat! Catalano as Wes is so good as he goes from his stuffy bodyguard self to the man he truly is. Summers is spunky and so much fun as Fiona. A better casting could not have been made. Grab this one now!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ooh, I loved this spicy story. A forced proximity/bodyguard romance is right up my alley. If I had to be snowed in with someone, I too would want it to be Wes. This is one book that you are going to want to read. Fiona and Wes may be snowed in but there is plenty of heat between these two!

Fiona had a cheeky, flirty side to her that I love. For example, the grocery list she made and the "extra" items she put on the list. Only thing is that she did not think Wes would call her bluff and get the items. Fiona willing to give up everything for Wes is beautiful. Luckily, she did not k!ll him with that mishap in the bedroom!

[Erin Stapel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio review:

Irene Bahrd does it again. Another spice and passion filled novella leaving the reader hot and ready for more. A snowed-in Duchess and her bodyguard? What could possibly happen. I'll tell you what they bring the heat to the cold winter are and steams up the room. Their chemistry, their banter, their love for one another is all piled into this little novel. I could totally see this as a larger, longer story, but even as a novella it was amazing. Again Narrator Samantha Summers delivers and she gives us an amazing performance in this novella. This was my first time listening to Marcio Catalano and he was fantastic for this role. They did a wonderful job with this novella.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick, funny, spicy, and hilarious novella. Full of delicious bodyguard x royal nonsense, a snowed in/forced proximity plot line that only serves to let the MCs face their nonsense and get it on in reasonable peace and quiet. I laughed, I swooned, I fanned my face and said “Oh my WOOOOOOORD.” This author never fails to deliver the funny and the smutty - and always with a dose of awwww somewhere in there.
I was so thankful to receive an advanced review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shivany · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a plotless, smutty, snowy romance 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Very Hot and very short novella.
Perfect as Christmas and New Year read.
Loved the main characters but I would have liked some background on them because for the first few pages, I thought Fiona was a bratty woman 🫢
But it turns out she isn't.
If someone wants to read a hot novella but keep in mind, it is plotless, this is perfect.
This novella will melt snow off right off your hands and keep you warm (if you know what I mean🫣)

Tropes-
Bodyguard X Duchess
Grumpy X sunshine
Stuck in snow
Close proximity
Did I mention super hot? ❤️‍🔥

[Michelle Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Royally Cuffed is a spicy sexy novella about a duchess that is snowed-in with her royal bodyguard. Fiona and Westley have been in love with each other for years. They have never acted on their mutual attraction until now. Can their relationship survive? Marcio Catalano and Samantha Summers were absolutely fabulous in their portrayal of Westley and Fiona. They brought this story to life. Enjoy the Christmas morning scene-but beware of consuming hot liquids while listening! I highly recommend listening to t his fabulous audiobook.

[Clueless · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎧 There is a time when you want to see a movie, but don't have the time, and a normal size book might seem a lot, because you are busy. Well, enter Irene Bahrd. Another short story, that got me through Sunday doing house work (that I didn't want to do). Snowed in with her bodyguard. I don't have to say no more. Or maybe I do, I loved that incident at the end. I have questions (that I will not ask) but in all it's ridiculousness I liked it.

🎧 I have to mention that both narrators are really good in voicing the opposite gender voice. For sure I will listen to more of them.

[Megan Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I swear Irene can’t write a bad book!! This one is delicious and perfect for the snowy season! Being snowed in with a hottie sounds like the perfect way to warm up! This book follows Fiona and her bodyguard bestie Westley as they’re snowed in to avoid a falsely accused scandal per Fiona’s family. Being stuck together can bring lots of ideas, however these 2 only have one idea they seem to use to pass the time. It’s spicy, it’s hot, it’s delicious. I couldn’t get enough of Fiona and Westley and devoured this book!! If you want smut you’ll read in one sitting, this one is definitely for you!

[Nichole Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you looking for a one-sitting, quick, plotless spicy holiday novella? Look no further. I absolutely loved this book. It actually had me laughing out loud a few times. The key, if you know, you know! A duchess and a bodyguard. How much more of an explanation do you need?! Fiona is definitely a wild one. Wes is such a sweetheart. Just absolute perfection. This book is for lovers of spice, not plot. No plot was really needed in my opinion lol. Job well done, once again.

[Julia Rick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flirty, Sweet, and Cozy. Irene Bahrd does it again with this fun Novella. Who doesn’t dream of a man that would give up his own livelihood for them. This is a fast read that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside. It’s the perfect little vacation from real life. The Spice and story are well balanced and it does not leave you feeling wanting. So curl up with Fiona and Westley and thank me later.

[Neia Quaintance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fiona is the duchess and went to her best friends house. Now, the media is makin it a big thing, so her bodyguard Westley is gettin her away to the holiday home for a while for the media to blow over so they don't have a scandal on their hands but they get snowed in 2gether. This is a cute novella that is just in time for the holidays. Westley is a doll, and I absolutely loved reading their love story unfold.

[Annie Soto · Rating 5 out of 5]

These two have been pining over each other for years and when they get snowed in while hiding away from the media in the woods, they confess their feelings for one another and all bets are off. They give into their desires and Fiona has to make the decision of whether to keep her title or not in order to be with a commoner.
A royalty x bodyguard forbidden romance novella like this is perfect for quick reads that have some great banter and just the right amount of spice.
Samantha Summers and Marcio Catalano delivered wonderful performances. I haven't heard too many titles from either of them, but I'm glad I heard this one and am excited to explore more of their work in the future.

[Danielle Coon-Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always, Irene's books are phenomenal! They always have the best spice, and her characters are full of wit and banter. Westley and Fiona have been together for forever, but not in an emotional capacity. In fact, neither of them realizes they actually have feelings for each other. It isn't until they get snowed in together that all those feelings come to the surface, and they get the best HEA.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an amazing book and I absolutely devoured it! Both Fiona and Westley were amazing and the chemistry and spice between them was perfect. Would highly recommend if you enjoy forced proximity, forbidden romance and royalty/bodyguard romance tropes. Irene Bahrd is the master of spicy romance! Thank you so much to Irene Bahrd and Book Sirens for the ARC of this story.

[Becci Tyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ALC*
This is my 7th book I have read from Irene Bahrd. She does such an amazing job making a beautiful story that gives you everything you need in a novella.
This one is a boydguard/dutchess story. Being snowed in at the family cabin where they are faced with both their feelings toward each other.
Irene puts just the right amount of spicy in her stories. Looking forward to her next story.

[Victoria Shelton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely hilarious. I would read more royal romances if they read like this one. The comedy in this book will keep you laughing from beginning to end. The two main characters are hot for each other but because they “work” together neither one has stepped over that line. I couldn’t put this book down and girl, when you get to the end you will never be the same!!

[Isha Coleman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio Review: Royally Cuffed by Irene Bahrd
Narrated by Marcio Catalano and Samantha Summers

A firework of heat and heart that dares to expose it's fragile side. Royally Cuffed is a rule breaker that walks a fine line between sweet and sultry. Wesley and Fiona turn emotions inside out with seductive results.