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Royal Bride Demand
A conveniently wed, royal reunion romance by LaQuette.
His marriage decree…
comes with a crown!
To take over the throne from his ailing father, Prince Jasiri Adebesi needs a bride, fast. The plan? Marry Reigna Devereaux, the woman who got away. The hitch? She has no clue he’s heir to the island kingdom of Nyeusi…
Reigna doesn’t know what’s more astonishing, Jasiri’s royal secret or his wedding demand. But when he offers Reigna her beloved childhood home, she doesn’t hesitate to say “I do.” She still doesn’t feel ready to relinquish her hard-won independence…yet as Jasiri's chosen queen, there’s nothing to stop her from surrendering to their scorching chemistry!
From Harlequin Escape to exotic locations where passion knows no bounds.
Read all the Crowning a Devereaux
Book 1: Royal Bride Demand
His marriage decree…
comes with a crown!
To take over the throne from his ailing father, Prince Jasiri Adebesi needs a bride, fast. The plan? Marry Reigna Devereaux, the woman who got away. The hitch? She has no clue he’s heir to the island kingdom of Nyeusi…
Reigna doesn’t know what’s more astonishing, Jasiri’s royal secret or his wedding demand. But when he offers Reigna her beloved childhood home, she doesn’t hesitate to say “I do.” She still doesn’t feel ready to relinquish her hard-won independence…yet as Jasiri's chosen queen, there’s nothing to stop her from surrendering to their scorching chemistry!
From Harlequin Escape to exotic locations where passion knows no bounds.
Read all the Crowning a Devereaux
Book 1: Royal Bride Demand
- GenresRomance
204 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2025
7 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
LaQuette
81 books563 followersLaQuette writes sexy, stylish, and sensational romance—the kind of sentimental-and-steamy stories that feel like Hallmark movies… if Hallmark suddenly ramped up the sexy and gave us the hawt love scenes we deserve. Expect big emotions, bold choices, and characters who strut through the pages like the book is their own personal runway.
A proud Brooklyn native, she crafts unapologetically bold, character-driven Black and interracial romances where Black women are joy-filled, desired, and absolutely treasured. These women know they belong on the page—and dare you to try telling them otherwise.
When this current Ph.D. student isn’t writing, reading, or studying, she’s probably trying on (or hunting down) her next must-have makeup find. And honestly? No one would be surprised if it’s yet another shade of red or pink lipstick. At this point, it’s basically a personality trait. Contact her at https://dot.cards/laquette.
A proud Brooklyn native, she crafts unapologetically bold, character-driven Black and interracial romances where Black women are joy-filled, desired, and absolutely treasured. These women know they belong on the page—and dare you to try telling them otherwise.
When this current Ph.D. student isn’t writing, reading, or studying, she’s probably trying on (or hunting down) her next must-have makeup find. And honestly? No one would be surprised if it’s yet another shade of red or pink lipstick. At this point, it’s basically a personality trait. Contact her at https://dot.cards/laquette.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
March 25, 2025
Excellent version of a very steamy Harlequin category romance! Two years ago, Reigna turned down an unexpected proposal from her then boyfriend Jasiri. He cut her off without a word and vowed never to let her into his heart again. But as it turns out, he's secretly the crown prince of an island nation and in order to become king, he needs to get married. So he blackmails his ex into a temporary marriage of convenience. (because obviously?) She reluctantly agrees to the ruse, but the chemistry between them is still very much there...
Reigna is such a fantastic character! She doesn't put up with BS and takes a stand for her own needs and boundaries. Jasiri has a lot of growing to do, and she has to move past her fear of commitment because of her parents marriage. Along the way they have a LOT of sex. That's definitely not about feelings at ALL. Definitely...
I really enjoyed this as a quick, tropey read. I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
Reigna is such a fantastic character! She doesn't put up with BS and takes a stand for her own needs and boundaries. Jasiri has a lot of growing to do, and she has to move past her fear of commitment because of her parents marriage. Along the way they have a LOT of sex. That's definitely not about feelings at ALL. Definitely...
I really enjoyed this as a quick, tropey read. I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
April 30, 2025
Second Chance
Royal relationship
Dramatic family
Marriage of convenience
ROYAL BRIDE DEMAND by LaQuette is a swoon worthy romance that has you turning the pages ! Prince Jasiri needs a bride for his inheritance and his ex Reigna is the only one for the job. Only problem: Reigna cannot stand him.... I fell in love with this story so much & still thinking about it! 💜💜💜
5🌟
Royal relationship
Dramatic family
Marriage of convenience
ROYAL BRIDE DEMAND by LaQuette is a swoon worthy romance that has you turning the pages ! Prince Jasiri needs a bride for his inheritance and his ex Reigna is the only one for the job. Only problem: Reigna cannot stand him.... I fell in love with this story so much & still thinking about it! 💜💜💜
5🌟
May 23, 2025
A fun read
This was a light, quick, and enjoyable read! I definitely recommend it - even if you're not into Royal stories - you'll enjoy it.
5/5
This was a light, quick, and enjoyable read! I definitely recommend it - even if you're not into Royal stories - you'll enjoy it.
5/5
March 10, 2025
A second chance royal romance was just what I needed!! Reigna is so regal, she is brave and strong and I love how fierce she is!! Jasiri drove me crazy with his anger, but his devotion to his family and his country was so beautiful to see. I also relly loved how Reigna reframed Lost Tribe, so moving. I loved this book!!
April 7, 2025
The story world that LaQuette has created is brilliant. I adore Prince Jasiri’s homeland and that Reigna loves it, too. I look forward to reading Book 2!
February 8, 2025
Royal Bride Demand had all the elements of a dramatic, high-stakes romance—second chances, a hidden royal identity, and a marriage of convenience. While I enjoyed the premise, the execution didn’t sweep me away.
Jasiri and Reigna’s chemistry is undeniable, and the tension between love and duty adds an intriguing layer to their relationship. I appreciated Reigna’s independent spirit and how she wrestled with sacrificing her autonomy for a crown. Jasiri, for all his commanding presence, had moments of vulnerability that made him compelling.
That said, the pacing felt uneven. The emotional beats didn’t always resonate as deeply as I wanted, and some parts of the story moved too quickly for me to fully invest in their reunion. The royal world-building was interesting, but I wished for more depth in the setting and political stakes.
Readers who love a whirlwind romance with strong-willed protagonists may still find this an enjoyable read, but it fell just short of being truly memorable for me.
Jasiri and Reigna’s chemistry is undeniable, and the tension between love and duty adds an intriguing layer to their relationship. I appreciated Reigna’s independent spirit and how she wrestled with sacrificing her autonomy for a crown. Jasiri, for all his commanding presence, had moments of vulnerability that made him compelling.
That said, the pacing felt uneven. The emotional beats didn’t always resonate as deeply as I wanted, and some parts of the story moved too quickly for me to fully invest in their reunion. The royal world-building was interesting, but I wished for more depth in the setting and political stakes.
Readers who love a whirlwind romance with strong-willed protagonists may still find this an enjoyable read, but it fell just short of being truly memorable for me.
March 7, 2025
Pub 4/29/25
Harlequin Presents ARC
What a delight! I freaking love a Harlequin Presents. They start off with a bang every time (Not a sexy bang necessarily, but a big moment).
We meet Jasiri as Reigna storms into his office diplomat. Her beloved uncle has died and left half the house he promised to her to Jasiri. They had been dating for 2 years, but have been split for 2 years after Jasiri suddenly proposed and she freaked out and ran away. They haven’t spoken since, even when she tried to explain what happened. Now he needs something from Reigna, and plans to use the house as leverage to get it. He needs a wife, fast, and he wants Reigna for the role.
Reigna (who has a twin sister named Regina) is pissed. She hates being caught by surprise, hates being confronted with a problem she can’t solve, and Jasiri brings up all kinds of feelings she’s rather not deal with. For 208 pages, SO MUCH HAPPENS. Both of them are determined not to be hurt again, but immediately there are sparks between them.
So, Jasiri does convince her into a marriage of convenience for 2 years, so he can take over his Dad’s job. What he doesn’t say, until 10 minutes from the plane landing in his home country, is that he’s a BONAFIDE PRINCE, and his job is going to be KING. Reigna is so mad, he kept this a secret for the 2 years they dated, and waited until the last minute to spring this on her. This guy keeps doing the dumbest things.
We get a couple sweet moments. At her uncle’s funeral, Reigna has a panic attack and Jasiri helps her through it. Then when she later meets his mother, the Queen, the hug and warm welcome she receives made me cry. Reigna had a messed up childhood, her parents were awful, and having a woman offer her warm and affection was so sweet. And the sex is SEXY. But NO FEELINGS PLEASE!
Of course, there’s a baddie trying to make problems for the prince, and Reigna doesn’t take his bullshit either. There’s some drama that has to be worked out, and when Jasiri tries to protect Reigna instead of asking her her help, she takes control. It’s great. Reigna is a class 1 bad ass.
Loved this book, loved the gorgeous cover art, interesting setting, and fun ride.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley
Harlequin Presents ARC
What a delight! I freaking love a Harlequin Presents. They start off with a bang every time (Not a sexy bang necessarily, but a big moment).
We meet Jasiri as Reigna storms into his office diplomat. Her beloved uncle has died and left half the house he promised to her to Jasiri. They had been dating for 2 years, but have been split for 2 years after Jasiri suddenly proposed and she freaked out and ran away. They haven’t spoken since, even when she tried to explain what happened. Now he needs something from Reigna, and plans to use the house as leverage to get it. He needs a wife, fast, and he wants Reigna for the role.
Reigna (who has a twin sister named Regina) is pissed. She hates being caught by surprise, hates being confronted with a problem she can’t solve, and Jasiri brings up all kinds of feelings she’s rather not deal with. For 208 pages, SO MUCH HAPPENS. Both of them are determined not to be hurt again, but immediately there are sparks between them.
So, Jasiri does convince her into a marriage of convenience for 2 years, so he can take over his Dad’s job. What he doesn’t say, until 10 minutes from the plane landing in his home country, is that he’s a BONAFIDE PRINCE, and his job is going to be KING. Reigna is so mad, he kept this a secret for the 2 years they dated, and waited until the last minute to spring this on her. This guy keeps doing the dumbest things.
We get a couple sweet moments. At her uncle’s funeral, Reigna has a panic attack and Jasiri helps her through it. Then when she later meets his mother, the Queen, the hug and warm welcome she receives made me cry. Reigna had a messed up childhood, her parents were awful, and having a woman offer her warm and affection was so sweet. And the sex is SEXY. But NO FEELINGS PLEASE!
Of course, there’s a baddie trying to make problems for the prince, and Reigna doesn’t take his bullshit either. There’s some drama that has to be worked out, and when Jasiri tries to protect Reigna instead of asking her her help, she takes control. It’s great. Reigna is a class 1 bad ass.
Loved this book, loved the gorgeous cover art, interesting setting, and fun ride.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley
February 27, 2025
This is my second LaQuette book. The first was action-packed and four or five jalapenos on the romance meter. Also, I used to be a customer of Harlequin Books--think the late '80s/early '90s Harlequin book club. When I came across this pairing, I was super excited to read the novel. This novel is a second chance, enemies to lovers, royal romance. This novel is the first book in the "Crowning a Devereaux" series.
Reigna Devereaux's beloved uncle has just passed away. He took her and her twin sister into his home and helped raise them when they were young children. However, she has found out that he has left his house, where Reigna grew up, to her and her ex-boyfriend, Jasiri Adebsi. She is enraged. Jasiri is not happy about the will decree, but he feels the plan is right on time. He needs someone to marry to save his country and Reigna fits all the requirements. How will these two strong-willed people heal from past hurts and learn to love again?
Reigna is an intelligent, successful, and independent businesswoman. She doesn't take trash from anyone--her family or Jasiri. I like that her character walked the walk and talked the talk. I liked that she stood up to Jasiri and anyone else that got in her way. She was fierce, loving, and loyal as well. Jasiri was a good balance of a strong man and a cinnamon roll. However, I didn't feel much chemistry between the two of them. The first chapter started well, but the chemistry was difficult for me to believe as the book moved forward. The love scenes were about 2 jalapenos on the romance meter for me. The pace of the novel was slow for me; at points I found myself looking to see how much was left to read. As a reader, I did not like the Devereaux sisters were named, Reigna and Regina. However, they had distinct personalities.
Overall, it was a good read. I did want there to be more steam and chemistry between Reigna and Jasiri. I am interested in what is next in this series. The twin sister, Regina, seemed even more feisty than Reigna.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reigna Devereaux's beloved uncle has just passed away. He took her and her twin sister into his home and helped raise them when they were young children. However, she has found out that he has left his house, where Reigna grew up, to her and her ex-boyfriend, Jasiri Adebsi. She is enraged. Jasiri is not happy about the will decree, but he feels the plan is right on time. He needs someone to marry to save his country and Reigna fits all the requirements. How will these two strong-willed people heal from past hurts and learn to love again?
Reigna is an intelligent, successful, and independent businesswoman. She doesn't take trash from anyone--her family or Jasiri. I like that her character walked the walk and talked the talk. I liked that she stood up to Jasiri and anyone else that got in her way. She was fierce, loving, and loyal as well. Jasiri was a good balance of a strong man and a cinnamon roll. However, I didn't feel much chemistry between the two of them. The first chapter started well, but the chemistry was difficult for me to believe as the book moved forward. The love scenes were about 2 jalapenos on the romance meter for me. The pace of the novel was slow for me; at points I found myself looking to see how much was left to read. As a reader, I did not like the Devereaux sisters were named, Reigna and Regina. However, they had distinct personalities.
Overall, it was a good read. I did want there to be more steam and chemistry between Reigna and Jasiri. I am interested in what is next in this series. The twin sister, Regina, seemed even more feisty than Reigna.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 2, 2025
LaQuette delivers a sizzling, heart-centered royal romance in Royal Bride Demand, the first book in her “Crowning a Devereaux” series. As someone who grew up devouring Harlequin novels, I was so excited to see this contemporary twist…a Black Brooklyn billionaire heiress, a salty prince with secrets, and a slow-burn second chance story wrapped in marriage-of-convenience drama.
Reigna Devereaux is fierce, loyal, and refreshingly self-possessed. Her sharp edges, emotional vulnerability, and Brooklyn pride made her a standout heroine. Jasiri, her ex turned royal fiancé, is a complex blend of power and regret. While I enjoyed their banter and tension, I sometimes wished for a bit more chemistry as the story progressed.
LaQuette’s writing shines brightest in the emotional beats: Reigna’s panic attack at the funeral, her warmth with Jasiri’s mother, and the cultural texture she brings to both Brooklyn and the fictional kingdom of Nyeusi. These moments brought depth and heart to the story.
This book is also a love letter to Black joy, soft life, and the audacity to write characters who are thriving not struggling. That intentionality came through loud and clear, and it’s part of what makes LaQuette’s voice so essential in the romance genre.
A few pacing lulls aside, Royal Bride Demand is a rich, refreshing entry into the Harlequin Presents line. I’m already looking forward to Regina’s story. She was giving bold, no-nonsense energy and I’m here for it.
Reigna Devereaux is fierce, loyal, and refreshingly self-possessed. Her sharp edges, emotional vulnerability, and Brooklyn pride made her a standout heroine. Jasiri, her ex turned royal fiancé, is a complex blend of power and regret. While I enjoyed their banter and tension, I sometimes wished for a bit more chemistry as the story progressed.
LaQuette’s writing shines brightest in the emotional beats: Reigna’s panic attack at the funeral, her warmth with Jasiri’s mother, and the cultural texture she brings to both Brooklyn and the fictional kingdom of Nyeusi. These moments brought depth and heart to the story.
This book is also a love letter to Black joy, soft life, and the audacity to write characters who are thriving not struggling. That intentionality came through loud and clear, and it’s part of what makes LaQuette’s voice so essential in the romance genre.
A few pacing lulls aside, Royal Bride Demand is a rich, refreshing entry into the Harlequin Presents line. I’m already looking forward to Regina’s story. She was giving bold, no-nonsense energy and I’m here for it.
June 30, 2025
Royal bride demand is a new series connected to the Devereaux Inc. series, which I read and enjoyed.
Twins Reigna and Regina Devereaux are business partners and part of the successful Devereaux family. For Prince Jasiri, Reigna was the one that got away. She turned down his proposal because she was afraid of marriage. Her parents had a bad relationship and didn’t set a good example. Jasiri makes Reigna an offer she can’t refuse and before she knows it she is the soon to be Queen of a great nation as part of an arranged relationship.
Jasiri put up a wall to prevent being hurt. Reigna didn’t like how Jasiri kept secrets during their relationship. The forced proximity and physical attraction caused them to stop denying their feelings.
I was sad to hear that family patriarch Ace passed away and will miss his wisdom that was a major part of prior books.
This was a good second chance romance with a bumpy road to HEA. 3 1/2 stars
Twins Reigna and Regina Devereaux are business partners and part of the successful Devereaux family. For Prince Jasiri, Reigna was the one that got away. She turned down his proposal because she was afraid of marriage. Her parents had a bad relationship and didn’t set a good example. Jasiri makes Reigna an offer she can’t refuse and before she knows it she is the soon to be Queen of a great nation as part of an arranged relationship.
Jasiri put up a wall to prevent being hurt. Reigna didn’t like how Jasiri kept secrets during their relationship. The forced proximity and physical attraction caused them to stop denying their feelings.
I was sad to hear that family patriarch Ace passed away and will miss his wisdom that was a major part of prior books.
This was a good second chance romance with a bumpy road to HEA. 3 1/2 stars
February 26, 2025
3 stars
If you love second chance romances, enemies to lovers and lots of intimate scenes, you will love this book. For me, I was hoping more of the arranged marriage, not a sort of retaliation thing these two had going. The kingdom sounds really interesting, I wish we got more of that and history. I liked that even though he was very authoritative, she had her own empire and didn’t back down. I’m not too much of a fan of how hot and cold he could be, it sort of made my head spin.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an advanced copy to form options from.
If you love second chance romances, enemies to lovers and lots of intimate scenes, you will love this book. For me, I was hoping more of the arranged marriage, not a sort of retaliation thing these two had going. The kingdom sounds really interesting, I wish we got more of that and history. I liked that even though he was very authoritative, she had her own empire and didn’t back down. I’m not too much of a fan of how hot and cold he could be, it sort of made my head spin.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an advanced copy to form options from.
April 17, 2025
A prince needs a bride—fast—and tempts the woman who got away with an offer she can’t refuse. Their hasty marriage ignites a passionate connection that challenges her independence.
This secret-identity romance is smart and emotional. Jasiri and Reigna have strong chemistry but also clash frequently, largely due to Jasiri’s covert nature. Reigna is having none of it, and forces him to treat her as a true partner.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This secret-identity romance is smart and emotional. Jasiri and Reigna have strong chemistry but also clash frequently, largely due to Jasiri’s covert nature. Reigna is having none of it, and forces him to treat her as a true partner.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
June 10, 2025
Surprised I didn't like it but I didn't like it from the beginning. Not sure why, the heroine was brassy and bold, the hero, what little I read of him was bland. The story was bland and uninteresting. I thought maybe if the writing was good enough or to my liking it would make the story pop but it didn't.
Worth a read if you are interested in something a little different, or are bored, or are interested in black romance stories.
Worth a read if you are interested in something a little different, or are bored, or are interested in black romance stories.
March 28, 2025
I haven’t read a Harlequin romance in years, so diving into this was an absolute joy! This book delivers the classic steamy, high-stakes romance Harlequin is known for—this time with a twist of Black romance.
Imagine turning down a surprise proposal from your boyfriend, only to discover he’s secretly the crown prince of an island nation. Oh, and to take the throne, he has to get married—so he blackmails you into a temporary marriage of convenience. The tension? Immaculate.
Reigna is a fantastic heroine. She’s feisty, independent, and refuses to be steamrolled by Jasiri’s royal demands. She fights for herself, which I absolutely loved. Jasiri, on the other hand, had moments that seriously frustrated me. He made too many assumptions and clearly needed Reigna more than she needed him. The miscommunication trope was in full effect, which isn’t my favorite, but it didn’t ruin the experience. My only real gripe? The ending felt rushed—I wanted more!
If you love steamy royal romances with strong heroines, forced proximity, and plenty of drama, this is definitely worth the read!
Imagine turning down a surprise proposal from your boyfriend, only to discover he’s secretly the crown prince of an island nation. Oh, and to take the throne, he has to get married—so he blackmails you into a temporary marriage of convenience. The tension? Immaculate.
Reigna is a fantastic heroine. She’s feisty, independent, and refuses to be steamrolled by Jasiri’s royal demands. She fights for herself, which I absolutely loved. Jasiri, on the other hand, had moments that seriously frustrated me. He made too many assumptions and clearly needed Reigna more than she needed him. The miscommunication trope was in full effect, which isn’t my favorite, but it didn’t ruin the experience. My only real gripe? The ending felt rushed—I wanted more!
If you love steamy royal romances with strong heroines, forced proximity, and plenty of drama, this is definitely worth the read!
Read
April 2, 2025Contemporary Romance
Miniseries
Crowning a Devereaux (Book #1)
Miniseries
Crowning a Devereaux (Book #1)
Read
April 2, 2025Contemporary Romance
Miniseries
Crowning a Devereaux (Book #1)
Miniseries
Crowning a Devereaux (Book #1)
July 14, 2025
A reunited love between an elite and royalty! Full of secrets, danger, and surprises in this love story! Definitely A Must Read by Laquette!!
April 27, 2025
Second chance romances yes!!! When the prince needs to marry quick her turns to Regina to help him out. But the way things ended with them before didn’t leave a reunion as a possibility so Jasiri’s request very unusual. The way they both fight the pull was entertaining.
September 9, 2025
Reigna Devereaux, a strong, independent businesswoman, is stunned to learn she must share her late uncle’s home with ex-boyfriend Jasiri Adebsi. Though neither is thrilled, Jasiri sees an opportunity—he needs a wife to save his country, and Reigna fits the role.
As they confront past wounds and rekindled feelings, Reigna holds her ground while Jasiri balances royal duty with unexpected vulnerability. The romance is slow-burn, with light spice and occasional sparks, though the pacing lags at times.
Still, the story shines in its emotional depth, royal stakes, and powerful female lead. Reigna’s twin, Regina, hints at even more drama in future books. A solid, heartfelt start to a promising series. This royal romance is a blend of second-chance love, enemies-to-lovers tension, and political intrigue.
As they confront past wounds and rekindled feelings, Reigna holds her ground while Jasiri balances royal duty with unexpected vulnerability. The romance is slow-burn, with light spice and occasional sparks, though the pacing lags at times.
Still, the story shines in its emotional depth, royal stakes, and powerful female lead. Reigna’s twin, Regina, hints at even more drama in future books. A solid, heartfelt start to a promising series. This royal romance is a blend of second-chance love, enemies-to-lovers tension, and political intrigue.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews