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Prelude #2

Prelude to Us

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The woman he now has...is going to be hard to keep.

A billionaire romantic comedy-drama



ROMAN
Roman’s life—and his future—have always belonged to the Belmont Trust.

Until Isabel moved into his heart, his home and his life.

But the empire’s demands are brutal, and there’s no easy escape from those rules and obligations.

He has a plan that might work, if Isabel is willing to make a sacrifice.

And if his own growing possessiveness doesn’t drive her away…

ISABEL
All she wanted was a steady job, and enough money to pay the bills.

She got all that, but fell in love with Roman too. And nothing about that is easy.

Business is his life, and the family empire seems designed to grind her soul to dust.

Now Roman is hell-bent on banishing her ex-boyfriend and dancing partner from her life.

And then there’s that mysterious “complication” hanging over their heads.

And strong as her love for Roman is, there are limits to what Isabel can accept…


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PRELUDE TO US is the second part of a duet. The first part is PRELUDE TO YOU. They are not standalones, and are meant to be read together, and in order.
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Prelude to You is a steamy star-crossed billionaire romance. This book contains explicit content and profanity. Recommended for mature readers only.

--MAIN TROPES Possessive HeroDifferent WorldsStar-Crossed Lovers

499 pages, ebook

First published May 24, 2024

102 people are currently reading
67 people want to read

About the author

Jacqueline Darling

4 books31 followers
Book 1 - Prelude to You
Book 2 - Prelude to Us

Jacqueline writes because she can’t sing or dance. After years of ghostwriting novels, she decided it was (finally!) time to write her own stories. Which is the best decision she ever made.

Jacqueline lives a quiet life with Mr. Darling and two hairy little darlings, Gatsby and Daisy, on the west coast.

Her greatest wish is that you enjoy reading her books as much as she loves writing them.

You can sign up for her once-in-a-while author newsletter here: https://jacquelinedarling.com/newslet...

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5 stars
373 (81%)
4 stars
59 (12%)
3 stars
13 (2%)
2 stars
5 (1%)
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5 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Profile Image for Aleksandra.
424 reviews2 followers
June 2, 2024
Thank you @rom_jo for sending me this ARC!

Prelude to Us is the second book in the Belmont Manor Billionaires series by Jacqueline Darling and the conclusion to Isabel and Roman’s story. I loved the first book and couldn’t wait to get my hands on this one and it was even better than I expected, I laughed, I cried, I swooned and I already can’t wait for the next books in this series.

Prelude to Us starts right where the previous book ended on that cliffhanger and I immediately got sucked in Isabel and Roman’s story again. These two are absolutely incredible and perfect for each other and it was amazing to see them fight for their love despite the very different lives they are living. Roman is the perfect book boyfriend, the way he was constantly thinking about Isabel, wanting to give her everything and trying to find a way for them to be together was beautiful and I loved him even more in this book. Isabel came a long way from who she was at the beginning of book 1 and I really enjoyed her character here. While this book is mostly focused on romance and I loved all Isabel and Roman’s scenes together, I also really liked all the secondary characters, Emily, Meg, Sophie and even Byron, Henry and Steven were amazing and I can’t wait to read more about them in the next books in this series.

Prelude to Us is a really great romance book and the perfect conclusion to Isabel and Roman’s story, I loved it and definitely recommend it to everyone and already can’t wait for Meg and Byron’s story!
Profile Image for JP.
682 reviews25 followers
May 29, 2024
This gets 5 heartfelt ⭐️. Big SIGH! I just need a minute. 😂
This was a roller coaster of emotions and I was super happy and furious several times! And just for a moment I thought this was going to be a crazy miscommunication trope (which I can’t stand by the way) but it wasn’t. The author wrote an intriguing, exciting romance that was jumping off the page. Isabel and Roman were such a delight to watch. They had intense chemistry and could be comfortably silly. I also enjoyed the side characters. Meg was my favorite and I loved her personality. This was a fun and deeply satisfying read that reminds me why I love to read.
Thanks to the author for this beautiful eArc story. I loved it!


Profile Image for Anni Barkla.
230 reviews4 followers
June 17, 2024
Part 2 of a Delicious, continuing love story

Once again, Jacqueline Darling has written the most enthralling story about Roman & Isabel.


Without spilling any spoilers, Their story is like a spell that just wraps around you and swallows you whole. I love how the story is told from both leads point of view, and with such beautifully descriptive words that you’re right there on the journey with them. I love the easy, humerus banter between them, and how the other characters fit in so beautifully. There were a lot of twists and turns in book 2 that I was not expecting, but it was backed up with love, lust, humour, stolen moments, intrigue, a ritzy wild ride and I’m hungry for more. It makes you a believer in Love, that things happen for a reason & that if it’s meant to be, it will all work out in the end. I love a HEA, and this one was brilliant. And I love that the door is open for more - Isabel’s best friend Meg is just a delightful, feisty soul, that any girl would be proud to have in her corner, and her connection to Byron will be a brilliant story to read.

Thank you for allowing me to read your ARC, and thank you for writing every word , of which I demolished every crumb of! ( like one of Isabel’s exquisite pastries! 🥐)
63 reviews1 follower
June 8, 2024
Just like the first book, I found this book to be very enjoyable. I thought the plot complexity/extensions really made this book. The thought that an event can change how you see the world around you and your interactions within it is truly a reality.

It was nice having only a 2-book series to close out the making of a relationship. This will have a 'spin-off' book, but it's not a cliffhanger. I believe it will be an excellent additional read from here with some familiar characters, so I do look forward to it!

A great thank you to the author for providing an advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
4,041 reviews43 followers
May 29, 2024
Just an amazing story. Likeable characters. An incredible detailed storyline. Just the right amount of drama and suspense. Main characters relationship was exciting to read about. Lots of chemistry and passion. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Claire Coan.
280 reviews13 followers
June 6, 2024
I have been trying to write this review all afternoon, trying to sum up the emotions of Roman and Isabel’s story, wow ❤️
I loved Prelude to You and was hoping Prelude to Us could give me the same feelings, well it did and more. I laughed at Meg, swooned even more for Roman and cried along with Isabel. Any author who can emote these feelings is gold for me and I’m eagerly awaiting Meg and Byron’s story.
I really hope Jacqueline gets the recognition for the Belmont Manor Billionaires Duet. I would love to see Roman and Isabels story could come to the big screen ❤️
Thank you BookSirens, the Author and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this, all opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Dora Koutsoukou .
2,205 reviews712 followers
June 19, 2024
Part 2/2

3 👩‍🍳🏨🤔⭐️s

Overall, this duet was very well written yet it didn’t have to be that lengthy...

I liked the the main characters’ relationship (even with the ups and downs) and the secondary characters were a nice addition.

A few things were rushed though, there were unanswered questions and the ending was abrupt.
Profile Image for Twins Reading Books.
220 reviews288 followers
July 23, 2024
Duet Book 2 (Belmont Manor Billionaires)
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Prelude to Us by Jacqueline Darling is a gripping and exhilarating satisfying romance novel that brilliantly elaborates the spirit of romance and the challenges that arise from human relationships! It's a book that will stay with you for decades after you've finished reading it, therefore I enthusiastically recommend it! It was very easy to get fully engaged in Jacqueline Darling's writing within a few pages because of how charming and addictive it is! I like the atmosphere, and I always enjoy a good, complex, rich contemporary romance!
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The two main characters in this captivating story, Isabel and Roman, were a pleasure to spend time with. Their bond was very sincere and captivating because of their strong chemistry and occasional moments of easygoing humor. The Author Jacqueline Darling did a really good job of capturing their relationship, which made me realize why I enjoy reading romance novels so much!
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The supporting cast of characters gave the narrative even more appeal. Meg's vivid personality infused an extra layer of brilliance to the story, making her stand out as my favorite! She added so much to the narrative, and I can't wait to see more of her in novels to come! I was captivated by this continuous dance of feelings and perspectives, curious to see how their tale would take shape!
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I loved reading Prelude to Us, the exciting climax to Roman and Isabel's story, and I relished every turn of the plot! The Author Jacqueline Darling ammalgamates a cast of characters that captivates you with a burning and intense romance. I had a great time reading this millionaire romance, and I hope to see these characters and more Belmont Manor residents in future works! This was another 5/5 outstanding read! Jacqueline Darling keeps outdoing herself, writing better and better books. Even though the bar was set incredibly high with her first book, she has truly surpassed it with this one!
Profile Image for Terri Zumbrook.
2,799 reviews20 followers
June 13, 2024
There wasn’t much more that could have been thrown at Isabel and Roman in PRELUDE TO US. It’s not just a second chance romance, it’s a fourth or fifth chance romance. Roman is slow at learning from his mistakes, and Isabel is slow at realizing she shouldn’t put up with them.

It’s a good story even though it ends a little abruptly. It’s not exactly cliffhanger, but it seems like unfinished business. We do have Meg’s story to look forward to and she is a pistol.

So after reading an early copy of the book, I would definitely recommend it, but keep in mind you have to read Prelude to You first,
Profile Image for Kimberley.
414 reviews7 followers
June 3, 2024
More 4 1/2 🌟 WOW what an emotional ride this story was from the highs, the lows, the tears to warm heartfelt moments it had me invested from the first chapter. Prelude To Us continues from the cliffhanger ending of Prelude To You and you really need to read that one first. Roman and Isabel’s relationship is one for the ages with their instant chemistry, angst and mostly their love for each other. I really enjoyed the returning characters and we all need a friend like Meg and cannot wait for her book. This was an amazing read and I would highly recommend both books. I received a complementary copy from BookSirens.
2 reviews1 follower
November 11, 2024
Prelude to you series

I loved these books. I could hardley put it down. I can't get the epilogue, though. This is a very good read.
Profile Image for heather.
2 reviews
November 21, 2024
OHHH MY LORD! sooo cute!

I’d give book one and 2 10 stars!! Absolutely amazing books! Roman and Isabel … I want more! We need a book about the baby!!
2 reviews
December 8, 2024
I loved these books! Just read both in 2 days. The stories and characters were original and so unique. I have been reading romance on kindle unlimited for 15 years, best books ever! I love Isabel and Meg! Great female characters! Thank you! I am going to read them again and wait impatiently for the third!
283 reviews
December 6, 2024
I loved this duet so much and for more of an in-depth review look at book one.

Thank you,Thank you, Thank you 😊 for the added epilogue. It was just beautiful. 😍
101 reviews
January 12, 2025
Belmont Manor Series is a hit

I loved the story of Isabel and Roman. I am anxious to read about Meg and Bryon. I am definitely impressed with Darling’s storyline.
Profile Image for Beth Britt.
7 reviews
Read
February 12, 2025
Romance at its finest!

A story that gives you everything you could possibly want. Love with just enough angst to keep it real, of course smoking hot romance and characters that jumped off the page. One of the better romance series in a long while. Thoroughly delightful.
Profile Image for Nancy Anderson.
5 reviews
December 30, 2024
5 stars but...

I rated this five stars because the book is well written. Isabel is vulnerable but fierce. She is the right amount of not a doormat without being overbearing. Roman is aloof, but not mean and his character improves throughout the book. My only complaint is that I feel both books could have been cut in half, it was too wordy, but well written.
3 reviews
March 24, 2025
wonderful

I loved the storyline. Great characters. I would have loved a little more storyline with the father in the end after what happens to him… no spoilers.
12 reviews
April 10, 2025
loved it

If you want a really good feel good story then read this series. Made me smile all day. Looking forward to reading the next story of the best friend and the brother
9 reviews
May 23, 2025
Outstanding

This book had me laughing and crying till the very end. I couldn’t get enough. Looking forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Joanne Moynihan.
372 reviews1 follower
January 12, 2025
Contemporary Romance

Loved Roman and Isobel and the all encompassing love they share. I will have a hard time waiting for the next book
Profile Image for Sulya.
4 reviews
May 30, 2024
WOW. Loved the first book of duet, and LOVED loved the second book. I was so greedy to read the story after finishing the first book, all of it, because what a page turner. Now I'll read it again and take it slower and just enjoy the read. (now that I know not to get upset because there is a HEA and what a happy one it is) This is not your ordinary love story, this is epic.

Isabel & Roman -- The most amazing romance I've ever read. How far this couple have come from that first meeting. So much happens and they both grow so much. It feels like you're there with them, and experiencing all their passion, fears, fun and tears. Isabel is strong and cheeky but she can be very vulnerable. But don't mess with Isabel, and Roman finds that out soon enough. Roman, oh Roman, who appears to be the perfect man but hides some serious vulnerabilities and pain. Talk about romantic heros, this guy brings it home. The sex between these two hot people is mouthwatering, and the spicy scenes have been page marked and will be read again and again.

Meg -- I can't love this character enough. Her dialogue is hysterical and she has a huge heart. The restaurant scene (won't give away spoilers) is so funny I spit coffee all over my phone. And also a later scene where she deals with lawyers. Another romance is brewing at the manor and without giving it away, Meg is getting her own book!!!!!

Emily -- the glue that holds the Belmont family together is amazing. She's in her own class. I just want her to teach me style and manners.

All the other smaller characters have their own personalities, and you get to love them all.

I can't recommend the duet enough. I'm waiting to see when the actual hard copies are available. I'll buy every book in this series.

Is there a date for book 3? If anyone knows, let me know plse.
Profile Image for Travel With A Book.
97 reviews6 followers
July 2, 2024
I thought Jacqueline Darling's Prelude to Us would be a fun diversion into the genre of romance when I initially picked it up. But what I got was a literary experience that was electrifying and beyond anything I could have imagined! I was pulled into a complex structure of emotions from the first page forward, cleverly conveyed by Darling's lyrical and compelling words!
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Captivating character development and engaging storyline combine flawlessly in Prelude to Us, with a mesmerizing curiosity, the story takes shape, beautifully and passionately tying the lives of its protagonists together. The reader feels the pleasures and sorrows of each character immediately since they are all written with such genuineness and detail!
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Every time I turn a page, the novel's intense emotional content has me gripping the edge of my seat. Darling has a genuinely remarkable capacity to convey the spirit of love in all of its manifestations, whether it be sweet, passionate, or heartbreaking. The genuine and incisive language enhances the story's immersive quality.
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Prelude to Us is really made unique by Darling's beautiful words. Her sharp depiction of situations and feelings makes for a vivid, nearly cinematic reading experience. I could feel the chill of a wet night, the warmth of sun-drenched mornings, and the breathtakingly real moments of close character connection!
Profile Image for Sam Morley.
2 reviews
June 7, 2024
Once in a while you come across a book so beautiful, you know it will stay with you for a long time. For me it happens to be this Prelude duet. The first book blew me away and I thought no frigging way does the second live up to that, but it sure does, if not more so.

I don't have the author's wonderful way with words, but this is an amazing duet, in every way. From the beautiful writing, the story, to the characters (including the smaller characters) and omg this to-die-for romance between Roman and Isabel. This is a timeless book, and I'm almost sure if there wasn't all that hot sex in this story, everyone in the world would be reading it. I have a seventeen-year-old daughter and I'm dying to give her this duet to read, but responsible mom that I am, I won't.

My only question is if the author would be willing to make a less spicy version of this duet. I know about ten people I'd love to give this as a birthday or christmas present, but god help me if I give any one of them anything with this kind of spice, even if it hardly dominates the story.

Anyway, I'm happy another book is coming, with the crazy girl Meg no less. In the mean time I'll dig in and start reading the first book again. <3
Profile Image for samspeedreads.
278 reviews21 followers
June 27, 2024
Isabel and Roman can’t seem to stay away from each other no matter how many obstacles are in their path. With Isabel working for Roman’s family at Belmont Manor, it seems like fate is conspiring to keep them in each other’s paths. With a new set of complications popping up seemingly each day, Isabel and Roman have to determine how much they’re willing to sacrifice to be together.

Prelude To Us is book two of the duet and is intended to be read after Prelude To You.

There are a lot of moving parts in this universe. Roman is a billionaire slated to take over his family business with lots of stipulations attached. Isabel is employed by his family, dreams of pursuing a career as a pastry chef again after being fired, and competitively dances with a former lover as her partner. The chemistry between Roman and Isabel is undeniable but their path to a happily ever after is much less certain.

I really enjoyed the resolution of this story, and especially loved Isabel’s best friend Meg! She was a super fun character and I’m excited to hear she’s getting her own book in this series.
634 reviews15 followers
July 9, 2024
This author has landed in my life like a brick through a window: unexpected, startling and undeniably eye opening! So far she's shattered my expectations of the romance genre with Prelude To You, but Prelude To Us has gone to another level!

It seems I have developed a Pavlovian response to expert penmanship. I crave originality, a bucket full of literary devices (I can salivate over unusual metaphors, no joke!), and if the MC's chemistry is so palpable the intensity of their relationship can actually move my disillusioned heart, I'm sold. Here, I'm more than sold, I'm signed, sealed and delivered on this author, even though she's left me with one helluva book hangover!

If you're looking for a romance that has more sizzle than sausages on your barbecue, more steam than a geothermal power plant, more heat than a thousand burning suns, this is it! I can assure you the MC's will cartwheel into your life like acrobats on steroids, throwing pleasure bombs at your psyche faster than Koios can reason them away.

If you're prepared for an inevitable addiction to this author, read this series.
Profile Image for Liza Blomvist.
8 reviews
May 25, 2024
EPIC

After reading the first Prelude book in the duet, I fell in love with the characters, the story, and the writing. I was nervous waiting for the second book because how could it live up to the first.

Well, I'm here to tell you.

Book 2 is longer and holy sh*t it's even better than the first. It's all there, the drama, the spice (hot hot hot), the comedy, and I don't cry in books but this book made me cry. I don't even know where to begin with this one without giving away spoilers so I'll just say Isabel and Roman are characters that will stay with me forever. The story is epic and I didn't want it to end!

I want more of the Belmont Manor characters. And my girl, Meg (Isabel's best friend) is getting her own story, and shes in the third book. (and I can't say more because again, spoilers)

Now I have to start with book 1 again because this series is seriously addictive. And it’s really hard to say goodbye to the characters.

Plse make book 3 happen soon.
Profile Image for Kendra Williams.
8 reviews
May 26, 2024
If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would.

Book 2 exceeded my expectations, and I'm still reeling. Ms Darling knows how to tell a story and tell it well. Even clocking in at over 500 pages I finished it in a day, and now it's over and I'm sad. That's how good it is. You can't stop reading.

There are some thrilling moments, there are very sad moments, there are hilarious moments, and there are heartstopping moments, but one thing this story doesn't have is boring moments. Book 1 and 2 together are way over 900 pages and it moves constantly. I felt at times that I needed a break because I couldn't handle the times the relationship threatened to derail. At the same time you can't take a break because you need to see that it will all be okay again. More than once I needed wine to calm my nerves.

Book 1 and Book 2 make for a beautifully written duet and it's everything a romance story should be.

Anxiously waiting for Book 3 about Meg and Biron.
Profile Image for Olive Hayden.
2 reviews
October 9, 2024
Blown away. Thought after the first book it would be difficult to match that, but oh no, it was even better. What an emotional ride, high and lows. I couldn't stop reading and I'm a wreck. A happy wreck. One of the best happily ever afters ever! So there was a bonus epilogue and I almost didn't bother because usually the epilogues feel like they are written quickly just to add material but oh boy, not this one. It's long, and perfect. After the very long duet you'd think I would've had enough, but no. This epilogue filled that little void at the end that was needed for me to sigh and say goodbye to the characters until next time!

Well done to the author. She managed to bring something different and beautiful to a market where a lot of books start sounding the same. More please.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews

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