What do you think?
Rate this book
Taming a King
She was born to rule his heart. He was sworn to protect hers.
In a world where fairy tales are nothing but broken promises, June Ross has learned to trust no one but herself. Scarred by a traumatic childhood event, she’s built her life on the ironclad belief that love is a dangerous illusion and guards her heart with walls so high that even she can’t see over them. But when a deadly threat from the past resurfaces, she finds herself under the protection of Aedan King, a hardened bodyguard with his own battle-worn past. Trained to take a bullet without flinching, Aedan never expected to be blindsided by the one mission he can’t walk away breaking through June’s defenses and convincing her that true love isn’t a fairy tale—it’s the most perilous adventure of all. With danger closing in, June must decide whether she’s willing to trust someone else to protect her for the first time in her life, or if she’ll let fear keep her from the only man willing to risk everything—even his life—for her.
"Taming a King" is a standalone novel.
In a world where fairy tales are nothing but broken promises, June Ross has learned to trust no one but herself. Scarred by a traumatic childhood event, she’s built her life on the ironclad belief that love is a dangerous illusion and guards her heart with walls so high that even she can’t see over them. But when a deadly threat from the past resurfaces, she finds herself under the protection of Aedan King, a hardened bodyguard with his own battle-worn past. Trained to take a bullet without flinching, Aedan never expected to be blindsided by the one mission he can’t walk away breaking through June’s defenses and convincing her that true love isn’t a fairy tale—it’s the most perilous adventure of all. With danger closing in, June must decide whether she’s willing to trust someone else to protect her for the first time in her life, or if she’ll let fear keep her from the only man willing to risk everything—even his life—for her.
"Taming a King" is a standalone novel.
392 pages, Paperback
Published October 3, 2024
21 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Rita A. Gordon
14 books37 followersRita Gordon is an indie author and a former corporate baddie who writes Black and interracial love stories where love always wins. As an emerging voice in the contemporary romance genre, she brings a fresh perspective to storytelling. Inspired by the power of love and the beauty of cultural exploration, her writing captures the essence of human emotions and hopefully leaves readers spellbound with each page turn. When she's not busy working through her TBRs and writing, She travels, draws flower designs for her coloring books, and volunteers in her community.
To learn more about the author, visit ritaagordon.com
To learn more about the author, visit ritaagordon.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
December 29, 2024
The story of June and Aedan is one of the sexiest. I was always comforted by how reassuring his love and feelings were for June. For sure, I was annoyed at her running back to Aaron, but as the story unfolded, so did June’s trauma. The romance was super sexy and relentless in the last 100 pages. Early on, the amount of “tech talk” and corporate job exposition was a little drawn out for me. But it built my anticipation for sure. The shifting settings between Ireland and the US was also pretty cool. I would like to see this book adapted to film. Way to go Rita G!!!
March 10, 2025
2.5 stars
I think the main reason I wasn’t able to connect as well with this story as I hoped was the main characters. They were both so stoic and closed off that I found it hard to relate to them or even just want them to be my friend, so hanging out with them for the hours it took me to read the book was more of a chore than you’d like. Don’t get me wrong, they had valid reasons for their personality traits, but I just didn’t connect with them. Also, I’m not convinced of their love for each other at all. They had like three conversations, all of them about work or security and they’re out here talking about love and soulmates? How?
Aedan- Omg. Shut up about Rose! You mentioned her name seven times on the one page. She’s dating your brother. Move on. Every woman you interact with is compared to Rose, and if her name is brought up you have a little anecdote to tell us about her. Get over her bro, she’s just not that into you.
June - Does this chick know how to eat? Why does someone need to wipe her face after every mouthful? Is this foreplay?
Having a character called “London” while also having some of the story located in London was a wild decision.
I did like the idea of these companies taking over the world with black women at the front. Even if I still haven’t no idea what that company does.
Thanks to #netgallery, the author and publisher for a copy of this book.
Genre: Romance M/F
Format: Digital
POV: Dual
Tropes: light enemies to lovers, light love triangle, moving countries for a job, bodyguard, childhood trauma.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Age suggestion: 18+
I think the main reason I wasn’t able to connect as well with this story as I hoped was the main characters. They were both so stoic and closed off that I found it hard to relate to them or even just want them to be my friend, so hanging out with them for the hours it took me to read the book was more of a chore than you’d like. Don’t get me wrong, they had valid reasons for their personality traits, but I just didn’t connect with them. Also, I’m not convinced of their love for each other at all. They had like three conversations, all of them about work or security and they’re out here talking about love and soulmates? How?
Aedan- Omg. Shut up about Rose! You mentioned her name seven times on the one page. She’s dating your brother. Move on. Every woman you interact with is compared to Rose, and if her name is brought up you have a little anecdote to tell us about her. Get over her bro, she’s just not that into you.
June - Does this chick know how to eat? Why does someone need to wipe her face after every mouthful? Is this foreplay?
Having a character called “London” while also having some of the story located in London was a wild decision.
I did like the idea of these companies taking over the world with black women at the front. Even if I still haven’t no idea what that company does.
Thanks to #netgallery, the author and publisher for a copy of this book.
Genre: Romance M/F
Format: Digital
POV: Dual
Tropes: light enemies to lovers, light love triangle, moving countries for a job, bodyguard, childhood trauma.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Age suggestion: 18+
January 10, 2025
June became my favorite character quickly. Her story, her strength, and her style were all relatable despite her being a high-level corporate professional. I enjoyed that she dressed to please herself and not the world she was a part of. Despite her tragic beginning, she was fierce and loved her independence.
In walks two sexy men who want to love June. I secretly hoped that it would turn into a reverse harem. I hoped that London would win. London was a true book boyfriend with his good looks, protective nature and supportive behaviors. I thought I was Team London until Aedan entered the picture. Aedan erked my nerves in the beginning. Aedan continued to pine over a woman. I had to move past that like Aedan had to move past the woman. Aedan turned into the perfect book boyfriend. He was alpha when needed and a teddy bear all other times.
I was happy for June when she made her choice. She received what she didn't know she needed. She felt protected, loved, and fully supported. Her smallest need was catered to.
To earn five stars, Aedan needed another woman from his past. There was too much family togetherness… interaction.
Overall, it is a great read. It flows well and held my attention throughout. The situations kept you wondering what was going to happen next. I would suggest it to my reading friends.
In walks two sexy men who want to love June. I secretly hoped that it would turn into a reverse harem. I hoped that London would win. London was a true book boyfriend with his good looks, protective nature and supportive behaviors. I thought I was Team London until Aedan entered the picture. Aedan erked my nerves in the beginning. Aedan continued to pine over a woman. I had to move past that like Aedan had to move past the woman. Aedan turned into the perfect book boyfriend. He was alpha when needed and a teddy bear all other times.
I was happy for June when she made her choice. She received what she didn't know she needed. She felt protected, loved, and fully supported. Her smallest need was catered to.
To earn five stars, Aedan needed another woman from his past. There was too much family togetherness… interaction.
Overall, it is a great read. It flows well and held my attention throughout. The situations kept you wondering what was going to happen next. I would suggest it to my reading friends.
November 6, 2024
Taming a King by Rita A. Gordon is related to her novel, 30 Days in Belfast. It is not necessary to have read the previous book to understand the narrative. June Ross is connected to Rose, the heroine of 30 Days in Belfast, and is being protected by Aedan King, who had a brief liaison with Rose and Rose now is involved with his brother, Niall. June and Aedan have complex ties complex made even more unsettling by their visceral response to each other! June and Aedan both have high pressured jobs and emotional baggage. Their initial connection is sizzling, and readers are invested in their struggles to remain unencumbered by their feelings. However, as they grow closer so does danger, will Aedan be able to shield June from her shadowed nemesis? I really enjoyed this intense and passionate story and look forward to other works by this author. It would be great to see Troy featured!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/taming...
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/taming...
December 1, 2024
I had high expectations for this book, but unfortunately, it fell short for me. While the story promised a captivating romance between the two main characters, I felt that it was overshadowed by too many other elements, making their connection feel secondary.
What bothered me the most was the inclusion of romantic interactions with other characters and some instances of cheating. These moments were off-putting and completely ruined the book for me
Overall, while the book had potential, these aspects significantly detracted from my enjoyment.
What bothered me the most was the inclusion of romantic interactions with other characters and some instances of cheating. These moments were off-putting and completely ruined the book for me
Overall, while the book had potential, these aspects significantly detracted from my enjoyment.
November 14, 2024
Intense!
I had a love hate relationship with June. Sometimes I cheered her on because of her stubbornness, intellect and drive. On the other hand, her need to be clingy or run when overwhelmed was maddening. Adean was my loving hero. All in all it was intense and romantic. An enjoyable read.
I had a love hate relationship with June. Sometimes I cheered her on because of her stubbornness, intellect and drive. On the other hand, her need to be clingy or run when overwhelmed was maddening. Adean was my loving hero. All in all it was intense and romantic. An enjoyable read.
November 21, 2024
Aedan and June's love story was nice but she got on my nerves ALOT! At one point I had to take a breath from the story. I felt like the title almost should've been "Trying to keep June" because oweeee.🤦🏾♀️ And some of it just seemed toooo good to be true. She was too spoiled.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2024
This was a fantastic read. It was also the first book I’ve read written by this author. I love when I discover a new author and their work is poignant, revealing, and inspiring. I definitely recommend this book to any and all persons that love an engaging story.
December 2, 2024
June was loved properly and fully by the men in her life! This was my 1st time reading a little suspense with my romance. I enjoyed this story.
December 29, 2024
Thank you Netgalley.com for the ARC of this book.
(My review is mine alone and honest)
I enjoyed this book. I loved King! He was a great bodyguard and bf! June was not as easy to connect with as a FMC. There were moments where she was a bit irritating. She very much reminded me of Whitney Houston's character in The Bodyguard.
I liked all the supporting characters and wouldn't mind seeing them in books in the future. I wish there were more details to the story's villain, his motive behind his initial encounter with June and how evolved to be who he was, and/or why he was after her so many years later.
Overall I'd rate this book a 3.5 star. I would revisit this author in the future.
(My review is mine alone and honest)
I enjoyed this book. I loved King! He was a great bodyguard and bf! June was not as easy to connect with as a FMC. There were moments where she was a bit irritating. She very much reminded me of Whitney Houston's character in The Bodyguard.
I liked all the supporting characters and wouldn't mind seeing them in books in the future. I wish there were more details to the story's villain, his motive behind his initial encounter with June and how evolved to be who he was, and/or why he was after her so many years later.
Overall I'd rate this book a 3.5 star. I would revisit this author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2024
I’m excited to invite you to fall in love with the characters June, Aedan, and London as they navigate friendships, family, and relationships.
𝐓𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀 𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆
Taming a King follows the saga of Aedan King and June Ross as they navigate business, family, and romantic relationships while discovering that love is stronger than any wall we build to protect ourselves and our hearts.
Excerpt
𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞
I stopped believing in fairytales years ago. Long before my first kiss, I learned there is no such thing as a knight in shining armor. Before my first sexual encounter, I realized real princes don’t exist. Years before my first heartbreak, I concluded that I’d never sit beside a king. Staring down the barrel of a gun, I learned that the only person coming to my rescue... was me.
-—- ☮️ -—-
What to expect:
💜 Love triangle
💜 Suspense
💜 70s vibe
💜 Forbidden love
💜 Age gap
💜 Bodyguard romance
💜 Who hurt you?
💜 Slow burn
💜 Spicy
💜 Angsty
𝐓𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀 𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆
Taming a King follows the saga of Aedan King and June Ross as they navigate business, family, and romantic relationships while discovering that love is stronger than any wall we build to protect ourselves and our hearts.
Excerpt
𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞
I stopped believing in fairytales years ago. Long before my first kiss, I learned there is no such thing as a knight in shining armor. Before my first sexual encounter, I realized real princes don’t exist. Years before my first heartbreak, I concluded that I’d never sit beside a king. Staring down the barrel of a gun, I learned that the only person coming to my rescue... was me.
-—- ☮️ -—-
What to expect:
💜 Love triangle
💜 Suspense
💜 70s vibe
💜 Forbidden love
💜 Age gap
💜 Bodyguard romance
💜 Who hurt you?
💜 Slow burn
💜 Spicy
💜 Angsty
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews