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Throne of Judar #1
The Desert Lord's Baby
There was nowhere Carmen could hide from this prince of Judar. No stone he wouldn't turn to find her, no wall he couldn't tear down. Nothing would stop Farooq Aal Masood from claiming the mother of his baby.
She had betrayed him. And she would pay. In his bed. As his wife...until he tired of her. And though Carmen professed to love him, that it was all a misunderstanding, well...Farooq would never fall for her lies again!
She had betrayed him. And she would pay. In his bed. As his wife...until he tired of her. And though Carmen professed to love him, that it was all a misunderstanding, well...Farooq would never fall for her lies again!
192 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 1, 2008
44 people are currently reading
825 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Gates
502 books495 followersI am a USA TODAY Bestselling Author of 45 books in different genres including Contemporary Romance, Medical Romance, Medical Action Thrillers and Paranormal Romance. My upcoming works will also veer into fantasy.
But one thing is for sure…there will always be central romances in my books. The all-consuming kind that leaves readers breathless and begging for more.
I love to hear fron my readers, so come say hello, here on Goodreads and make sure to sign up to my VIP Mailing List on my website so I can keep you updated on all my news and special content and offerings!
My latest series is Dr. Angelica Mortmain novels, a heart-pounding medical action thriller with a white-hot central romance, and it starts with LETHAL TREATMENT, out NOW!
Happy reading everyone!
But one thing is for sure…there will always be central romances in my books. The all-consuming kind that leaves readers breathless and begging for more.
I love to hear fron my readers, so come say hello, here on Goodreads and make sure to sign up to my VIP Mailing List on my website so I can keep you updated on all my news and special content and offerings!
My latest series is Dr. Angelica Mortmain novels, a heart-pounding medical action thriller with a white-hot central romance, and it starts with LETHAL TREATMENT, out NOW!
Happy reading everyone!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
February 17, 2009
The Desert Lord's Baby is the first book in the Throne of Judar series, although it's the second book I read. This book is one that sucks you right in. The writing is so vivid and poignant. The characters are never lukewarm in their emotions. In fact the book seethes with violently intense emotions. Carmen and Farooq are a couple that never should have been parted from each other, but misunderstandings and fears crop up and come between them. I feel that if they had just made a commitment to each other early on instead of having what they called a three month affair, then there wouldn't have been that insecurity in their relationship, but what do I know?
After the rejection she faced with her parents and her first husband, Carmen doesn't have much reason to believe that she could be loved for her self. Yet paradoxically, she gives herself unselfishly and completely. This is clear from page one. Farooq is used to having his way and cannot believe that a woman would choose to leave him, not to mention a woman he was so deeply attracted to and in love with. He doesn't think to read between the lines when Carmen ends their affair with what has to be a pretty blatant lie if a person really thought about she said, knowing Carmen. But something causes him to track her down, and he finds out she's had his child. He falls instantly in love with their baby, and the scenes of the little cutie make it easy to accept this. Mennah is described as a miracle baby and she is in more ways than one. She brings this couple back together and gives them both peace that they were needing desperately.
Again I was captivated by the incredible emotional intensity of the storytelling, teamed with an exotic setting that I am a sucker for. Ms. Gates seems to have a definite appreciation for Arabic culture, and with her writing skills, the reader cannot help but be equally attracted to it. The love scenes are very steamy for a category romance but they belong in a story with such a fiery, intense relationship between two people. This one is a another recommended read for sheikh romance lovers.
After the rejection she faced with her parents and her first husband, Carmen doesn't have much reason to believe that she could be loved for her self. Yet paradoxically, she gives herself unselfishly and completely. This is clear from page one. Farooq is used to having his way and cannot believe that a woman would choose to leave him, not to mention a woman he was so deeply attracted to and in love with. He doesn't think to read between the lines when Carmen ends their affair with what has to be a pretty blatant lie if a person really thought about she said, knowing Carmen. But something causes him to track her down, and he finds out she's had his child. He falls instantly in love with their baby, and the scenes of the little cutie make it easy to accept this. Mennah is described as a miracle baby and she is in more ways than one. She brings this couple back together and gives them both peace that they were needing desperately.
Again I was captivated by the incredible emotional intensity of the storytelling, teamed with an exotic setting that I am a sucker for. Ms. Gates seems to have a definite appreciation for Arabic culture, and with her writing skills, the reader cannot help but be equally attracted to it. The love scenes are very steamy for a category romance but they belong in a story with such a fiery, intense relationship between two people. This one is a another recommended read for sheikh romance lovers.
January 27, 2012
This was so intense! It played like a movie in my head and the passion of the hero and heroine was off the charts. And then there are the incredible, exotic details of Judar, the culture, marriage customs, royal intrigue and that henna night!! Not to mention the wedding itself THEN the wedding night! Amazing! It got me hooked on Olivia Gates's books, and now I wait for each book of hers to get a dose of that larger than life passion and drama. Can't recommend highly enough!
January 30, 2012
Seriously ??!!!???
Olivia Gates has just reinvented the Silhouette Desire line. All my friends are talking about this new author and we're actually buying (BUYING) her books instead of sharing! This means a personal library keeper for future re-reading.
The Desert Lord's Baby is still reverberating in my mind a week after reading! Talk about sizzling hot!
I'm into the first chapter of The Desert Lord's Bride and cannot wait to devour the rest!
With all due respect, whatever Harlequin/Silhouette is paying Olivia Gates she should make them double/triple it or get rid of them altogether and go out on her own because she will not need them! Her fans will be salivating at her door waiting for her next offering!!!!!!!
In shock with delight !!!!
Olivia Gates has just reinvented the Silhouette Desire line. All my friends are talking about this new author and we're actually buying (BUYING) her books instead of sharing! This means a personal library keeper for future re-reading.
The Desert Lord's Baby is still reverberating in my mind a week after reading! Talk about sizzling hot!
I'm into the first chapter of The Desert Lord's Bride and cannot wait to devour the rest!
With all due respect, whatever Harlequin/Silhouette is paying Olivia Gates she should make them double/triple it or get rid of them altogether and go out on her own because she will not need them! Her fans will be salivating at her door waiting for her next offering!!!!!!!
In shock with delight !!!!
July 12, 2010
The Desert Lord’s Baby
Farooq & Carmen’s Story
Farooq Aal Massood & Carmen McArthur
This is the first book in the Throne of Judar Trilogy. This book sets the scene for the other two books. Farooq is the eldest brother and along with his two brothers are not just passionate men but Crown Princes of Judar.
In the first book Farooq and Carmen are two intense individuals. Farooq is a man that knows what he wants and takes no matter what the consequences. Carmen a very passionate woman struggles with her emotions. As much as she loves Farooq she knows that he will never trust her if she stays with him. He is a man that demands trust. Carmen knows that the news of her pregnancy will kill any feelings he has for her. She knows that she has to escape. She leaves him and returns to California. Farooq is like a man possessed when he learns why Carmen left him. He travels to find her and regain what she took from him.
Once Farooq finds Carmen he finds the passion for her is still there, but he will be the one in control as he forces her to return to Judar with him. He will make her pay the price for deceiving him. Once there these two passionate people find that what they have and share will sustain them through any crisis.
This is a story of love and forgiveness.
The compassion between these two strong individuals will make you cheer them to the winners circle.
This story is a five star read. A MUST read.
Farooq & Carmen’s Story
Farooq Aal Massood & Carmen McArthur
This is the first book in the Throne of Judar Trilogy. This book sets the scene for the other two books. Farooq is the eldest brother and along with his two brothers are not just passionate men but Crown Princes of Judar.
In the first book Farooq and Carmen are two intense individuals. Farooq is a man that knows what he wants and takes no matter what the consequences. Carmen a very passionate woman struggles with her emotions. As much as she loves Farooq she knows that he will never trust her if she stays with him. He is a man that demands trust. Carmen knows that the news of her pregnancy will kill any feelings he has for her. She knows that she has to escape. She leaves him and returns to California. Farooq is like a man possessed when he learns why Carmen left him. He travels to find her and regain what she took from him.
Once Farooq finds Carmen he finds the passion for her is still there, but he will be the one in control as he forces her to return to Judar with him. He will make her pay the price for deceiving him. Once there these two passionate people find that what they have and share will sustain them through any crisis.
This is a story of love and forgiveness.
The compassion between these two strong individuals will make you cheer them to the winners circle.
This story is a five star read. A MUST read.
January 7, 2010
I love this book! Olivia Gates used her characteristically flawless style of deep emotions, intelligent layers, and vivid descriptions to write one dynamite book that I read in a single sitting.
The chemistry between the two characters jumped off each page, then to boost it into the stratosphere, she added a baby. A baby! The description of her cherubic face alone caused me to ovulate on the spot!
Throw in a 6'4" alpha male whose guarded heart has turned to jelly at the first glance of her two-toothed, drooly grin, and your heart will melt, too. Theirs is the most amazingly real, deeply emotional, poignant father/daughter first encounter I've ever read. Gates had me smiling through my tears.
One of my favorite scenes of all times is where we meet Farooq's brothers, the heroes from the other two books of the trilogy. Seeing the three gorgeous alpha males passing around the newest little addition to their family, and witnessing as she melts their hearts, took my breath away. It was this scene, too where Carmen first began to win over her future brothers-in-law with her wit, talent for languages, and refusal to be intimidated.
But, it isn't all baby cuddles and giggles. There's a question of legitimacy and oh, yeah keeping the crown in the family. All that, and Olivia still manages to bring us plenty of the hottest, most passionate love in all of romance.
Once again, Gates keeps us thoroughly enthralled in a world of such rich and vibrant description, that you'll have to ask yourself later if you read the book or watched a movie.
The chemistry between the two characters jumped off each page, then to boost it into the stratosphere, she added a baby. A baby! The description of her cherubic face alone caused me to ovulate on the spot!
Throw in a 6'4" alpha male whose guarded heart has turned to jelly at the first glance of her two-toothed, drooly grin, and your heart will melt, too. Theirs is the most amazingly real, deeply emotional, poignant father/daughter first encounter I've ever read. Gates had me smiling through my tears.
One of my favorite scenes of all times is where we meet Farooq's brothers, the heroes from the other two books of the trilogy. Seeing the three gorgeous alpha males passing around the newest little addition to their family, and witnessing as she melts their hearts, took my breath away. It was this scene, too where Carmen first began to win over her future brothers-in-law with her wit, talent for languages, and refusal to be intimidated.
But, it isn't all baby cuddles and giggles. There's a question of legitimacy and oh, yeah keeping the crown in the family. All that, and Olivia still manages to bring us plenty of the hottest, most passionate love in all of romance.
Once again, Gates keeps us thoroughly enthralled in a world of such rich and vibrant description, that you'll have to ask yourself later if you read the book or watched a movie.
May 30, 2011
one of the few reguler romance i like
so much love and joy but at the same time mistrust it was the best
so much love and joy but at the same time mistrust it was the best
April 30, 2009
This is the first book I sat down to read in months. I read it in one night. Olivia sure knows how to draw the emotions out of you. I had tear wiping moments.
February 6, 2011
It was a good read enjoyable...and I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE OTHER BROTHERS they sound yummy!.
From the first page you were drawn to the characters also this was my first book from this author.
From the first page you were drawn to the characters also this was my first book from this author.
June 24, 2011
This is a reread for me and it was still just as intense as if I'd read it for the first time.
Love sheikhs, love this book!
Love sheikhs, love this book!
January 21, 2021
From what I understand, this is Olivia Gates’s first story for the Desire line. She kicks it off with a three-part series where each hero passes the baton to determine who will be the crown prince of a made-up desert country.
The H/h met in New York and had a sexual affair for six weeks, which left the heroine pregnant. Heroine was a translator helping out with a business transaction the hero was involved with. She has no idea he is heir to any throne, but she does know he’s rich, from a different culture, and not interested in settling down.
Since this is a miracle baby (she’s been declared infertile) and she thinks the hero will insist on an abortion, she breaks it off (brutally) and heroine goes on to have her secret baby in California.
Hero is convinced heroine was set up by his evil cousin to ??? Not sure – there’s a lot of palace intrigue I skipped over.
He hires an investigator to locate the heroine and is surprised to find she has a nine-month-old daughter who looks exactly like his sister. He has no doubt the baby is his.
Heroine thinks he’s going to take the baby away from her – but he wants her to return to his made-up country since he has won the baby-making contest before one of the other heroes and now he’s in line to be the crown prince. They’ll marry on the plane and all will be well. (Again – more intrigue I wasn’t interested in)
Heroine is confused why the hero is angry with her one minute and ready for sex times the next. They argue a lot and the hero discover all kinds of things about the heroine.
Heroine was married before – for her father’s business.
Heroine was rejected by her hubby when it was discovered she was infertile.
Heroine is wealthy in her own right.
Heroine was convinced hero would want her to have an abortion.
Heroine had a hysterectomy after the birth of her child.
Those are all interesting facts for a character who is marrying into a royal family – unfortunately, the author skates over all of them to keep reiterating the hero’s devotion to the heroine and then trying to talk himself out of said devotion. It’s all very emotional – but not very logical. I noticed it while reading, but really noticed just how illogical the plot was when I tried to write this review.
*shrugs * It’s Olivia Gates – what can you do?
The H/h met in New York and had a sexual affair for six weeks, which left the heroine pregnant. Heroine was a translator helping out with a business transaction the hero was involved with. She has no idea he is heir to any throne, but she does know he’s rich, from a different culture, and not interested in settling down.
Since this is a miracle baby (she’s been declared infertile) and she thinks the hero will insist on an abortion, she breaks it off (brutally) and heroine goes on to have her secret baby in California.
Hero is convinced heroine was set up by his evil cousin to ??? Not sure – there’s a lot of palace intrigue I skipped over.
He hires an investigator to locate the heroine and is surprised to find she has a nine-month-old daughter who looks exactly like his sister. He has no doubt the baby is his.
Heroine thinks he’s going to take the baby away from her – but he wants her to return to his made-up country since he has won the baby-making contest before one of the other heroes and now he’s in line to be the crown prince. They’ll marry on the plane and all will be well. (Again – more intrigue I wasn’t interested in)
Heroine is confused why the hero is angry with her one minute and ready for sex times the next. They argue a lot and the hero discover all kinds of things about the heroine.
Heroine was married before – for her father’s business.
Heroine was rejected by her hubby when it was discovered she was infertile.
Heroine is wealthy in her own right.
Heroine was convinced hero would want her to have an abortion.
Heroine had a hysterectomy after the birth of her child.
Those are all interesting facts for a character who is marrying into a royal family – unfortunately, the author skates over all of them to keep reiterating the hero’s devotion to the heroine and then trying to talk himself out of said devotion. It’s all very emotional – but not very logical. I noticed it while reading, but really noticed just how illogical the plot was when I tried to write this review.
*shrugs * It’s Olivia Gates – what can you do?
February 11, 2012
I picked this book up because of its cover. But I sort of thought the cover would actually work against the book, since nothing inside it would live up to its sumptuousness.
How delighted was I when I discovered the opposite was true. The inside of the book is far more lush and exotic and magical. Every word was like a gem strung together with other gems to form this treasure of a story. No wonder it won a best book award. It certainly deserves it and then some. It transports you into the world the author paints, this incredible kingdom of Judar, and into the tempestuously passionate love story of Farooq and Carmen. Other things that puts it heads and shoulders above other books is the baby Mennah's portrayal, and that of Farooq's response and relationship with her. And then comes theh hero's portrayal. No other author can take me inside the hero's head and heart and soul like Olivia Gates does.
I've gone on to read everything she's ever written, and I'm happy to say her standard remains the highest always. This book was the beginning of a love affair with her writing. She's my number one author now!
How delighted was I when I discovered the opposite was true. The inside of the book is far more lush and exotic and magical. Every word was like a gem strung together with other gems to form this treasure of a story. No wonder it won a best book award. It certainly deserves it and then some. It transports you into the world the author paints, this incredible kingdom of Judar, and into the tempestuously passionate love story of Farooq and Carmen. Other things that puts it heads and shoulders above other books is the baby Mennah's portrayal, and that of Farooq's response and relationship with her. And then comes theh hero's portrayal. No other author can take me inside the hero's head and heart and soul like Olivia Gates does.
I've gone on to read everything she's ever written, and I'm happy to say her standard remains the highest always. This book was the beginning of a love affair with her writing. She's my number one author now!
February 12, 2012
One of the best books I've ever read. It's got everything. Incredible writing, setting, love story, sex scenes. Just WOW. I've read and reread it so many times my copy fell apart and I had to download it to my Kindle. Now I keep rereading favorite scenes on my Kindle. Farooq's first time feeding Menna breakfast. The hennah scene. The wedding scene. The wedding NIGHT—Phew! And every time, I discover more stuff to appreciate and the book becomes more wonderful! Keep a hankie handy!
February 13, 2012
This was the first book I've read for Olivia Gates, and I've since gone searching out everything she's ever written, and devoured it all. This was how FANTASTIC this book was. It started an ongoing love affair with this author's writing!
I won't rehash the story, since other reviews must have mentioned it, and it's not the point of my review. It's the writing that is.
Olivia Gates writes in a way that makes her characters' passion burn off the page. Her writing is larger than life, her descriptions of scenes so visual I felt I was watching the story unfold in a 3D movie, and she takes you away from this world and into the fantastic new worlds she creates. If you're looking for something with everyday language and descriptions, steer away. She uses the language in ways I never read before, and transmits you right into the locations to soak you in their wonder, and the characters' hearts and souls, to sear you with their passion and emotions and heartaches.
This is not only a book or a story, it's an 'experience' just like her every other book is. I now await her every new release to leave my life and this world to go inhabit the ones she creates and lose every sense of self and time for the duration.
She lately started writing paranormal and took her new world creation to a whole new level. I can't wait until she's writing a series where she will put that world creating abilities to full use!!
I won't rehash the story, since other reviews must have mentioned it, and it's not the point of my review. It's the writing that is.
Olivia Gates writes in a way that makes her characters' passion burn off the page. Her writing is larger than life, her descriptions of scenes so visual I felt I was watching the story unfold in a 3D movie, and she takes you away from this world and into the fantastic new worlds she creates. If you're looking for something with everyday language and descriptions, steer away. She uses the language in ways I never read before, and transmits you right into the locations to soak you in their wonder, and the characters' hearts and souls, to sear you with their passion and emotions and heartaches.
This is not only a book or a story, it's an 'experience' just like her every other book is. I now await her every new release to leave my life and this world to go inhabit the ones she creates and lose every sense of self and time for the duration.
She lately started writing paranormal and took her new world creation to a whole new level. I can't wait until she's writing a series where she will put that world creating abilities to full use!!
February 17, 2012
I don't usually read this kind of book, but I picked it up because of the cover, then on the back cover, I found something that convinced me to buy it. The heroine had my name!
I know, two silly reasons to buy a book, but there you go. And am I GLAD I gave in to the impulse!! This book is incredible, I can't even begin to pick what I like about it most. The hero was the perfect alpha without being a jerk. You enter his heart and mind and understand why he does and says everything, and empathize with it all, and love him more for it. The heroine, Carmen (yay) and her baby Mennah are perfect for him, and it's great seeing this family coming together through such deep love. But the family part doesn't detract from the amazing passion between Farooq and Carmen. Those have to be the most passionate love scenes I've ever read. And then comes Judar itself, where Farooq whisks Camen and Mennah. I haven't read anything so detailed, so visual and so exotically real in ever! I want Judar to be real so I can go visit it!!
The Desert Lord's Baby is amazing and unique and I went on to devour everything Olivia Gates has written from then on, and I was delighted with each new work ever since. If you're a fan of well drawn characters, mouth-watering, vocal alpha males, emotional passion and incredibly detailed exotic lands, this is the book for you!
I know, two silly reasons to buy a book, but there you go. And am I GLAD I gave in to the impulse!! This book is incredible, I can't even begin to pick what I like about it most. The hero was the perfect alpha without being a jerk. You enter his heart and mind and understand why he does and says everything, and empathize with it all, and love him more for it. The heroine, Carmen (yay) and her baby Mennah are perfect for him, and it's great seeing this family coming together through such deep love. But the family part doesn't detract from the amazing passion between Farooq and Carmen. Those have to be the most passionate love scenes I've ever read. And then comes Judar itself, where Farooq whisks Camen and Mennah. I haven't read anything so detailed, so visual and so exotically real in ever! I want Judar to be real so I can go visit it!!
The Desert Lord's Baby is amazing and unique and I went on to devour everything Olivia Gates has written from then on, and I was delighted with each new work ever since. If you're a fan of well drawn characters, mouth-watering, vocal alpha males, emotional passion and incredibly detailed exotic lands, this is the book for you!
January 31, 2012
Olivia Gates is a guaranteed winner.
She always writes compelling heroes and strong heroines and what could be better than that?
She always writes compelling heroes and strong heroines and what could be better than that?
November 2, 2012
Yet again Olivia Gates has delivered - MAGNIFICENTLY !
This book needs to come with a warning label and a bucket of ice-cold water as someone said!
A great read with such intense emotions I was practically hyperventilating!
Highly recommended along with the other 2 in the trilogy (especially The Desert King!!)
The story of Carmen and Farook is sizzling and tender and fabulous. It will leave you salivating and wanting more!
This book needs to come with a warning label and a bucket of ice-cold water as someone said!
A great read with such intense emotions I was practically hyperventilating!
Highly recommended along with the other 2 in the trilogy (especially The Desert King!!)
The story of Carmen and Farook is sizzling and tender and fabulous. It will leave you salivating and wanting more!
February 19, 2012
This is a modern 1001 Arabian Nights but emotional, and far more passionate and erotic! I loved the details, Farooq and Carmen and baby Mennah, I love the brothers (who star in the next two books in the trilogy) I've been rereading this book from time to time and every time I find more things to appreciate. That hennah scene and the wedding scene and night parts are coming apart!
February 10, 2012
Totally awesome book. It was like being transported to another world. Olivia Gates has a natural talent for helping the reader feel like they're right there, whether it's in the room or half-way across the other side of the world. This story will stay with you and you'll want to re-visit it often - just like an old friend. I highly recommend it and look forward to reading Mrs. Gates' up and coming novels.
February 20, 2012
Incredible book with an unbelievable Arabian Nights feel (though it also remains modern) with an irresistible hero, scorching love scenes and terrible dilemmas. So passionate and detailed and just all around fantastic.
February 23, 2012
One of the best books I've ever read! The Desert Lord's Baby has everything a romantic escape should have, and it delivers on all fronts in spades! Deserves more than five stars!
September 13, 2021
Carmen McArthur, who specializes in organizing international events, both diplomatic and for businesses, fell in love with Sheikh Farooq Aal Masood, heir to the throne of this small but rich Middle East kingdom. The first time she saw him. And her world stood still when Farooq asked her to be his mistress temporarily. She was beyond happy, but her world came crashing down when she found out that she was carrying his baby. Knowing that their affair was just temporary, Carmen flees from Farooq's apartment in New York and is out of his life.
But not for long.
Sheik Aal Massod Farooq found out about the baby. And knowing that it would help him secure the crown, he asks Carmen to marry him even though he believes that she betrayed him and she's a tool of his enemies. Carmen ends up agreeing to a marriage of convenience to keep her child.
What I loved the most and what had me captivated was how much they wanted each other after all those months. And even though Farooq seems distant and still doesn't trust Carmen completely, you can still feel how much he cares. There's a scene where it shows us how much he loves her. He didn't take another wife, and he's willing to give up his title to the throne to his brother to prove his love to his wife, Carmen.
All in all, though, The Desert's Lord Baby is another winner and delightfully penned by the very talented Ms. Gates. It's a quick and enjoyable novel with characters I enjoyed, and which left me wanting to know what happens next with the rest of its cast of characters.
But not for long.
Sheik Aal Massod Farooq found out about the baby. And knowing that it would help him secure the crown, he asks Carmen to marry him even though he believes that she betrayed him and she's a tool of his enemies. Carmen ends up agreeing to a marriage of convenience to keep her child.
What I loved the most and what had me captivated was how much they wanted each other after all those months. And even though Farooq seems distant and still doesn't trust Carmen completely, you can still feel how much he cares. There's a scene where it shows us how much he loves her. He didn't take another wife, and he's willing to give up his title to the throne to his brother to prove his love to his wife, Carmen.
All in all, though, The Desert's Lord Baby is another winner and delightfully penned by the very talented Ms. Gates. It's a quick and enjoyable novel with characters I enjoyed, and which left me wanting to know what happens next with the rest of its cast of characters.
March 3, 2012
The Desert Lord Baby wowed me from the first line "Do you know what it felt like, being trapped for two days in those hellish negotiations, away from you?" to the last line "She twistedin the slickness of water and bubbles, gliding over his flesh, inventing new erogenous zones for starters, then proceeded to invent new reasons to love, new reasons to live. As he knew she always would."
Amazing love story between two people find their way to each other against all odds, and an alpha hero who does the impossible, believes his own senses against all evidence and trusts the heroine. The story is told against what I can only call an modern Arabian Nights backdrop that is breathtaking in detail and wonder.
Amazing love story between two people find their way to each other against all odds, and an alpha hero who does the impossible, believes his own senses against all evidence and trusts the heroine. The story is told against what I can only call an modern Arabian Nights backdrop that is breathtaking in detail and wonder.
February 24, 2012
Devoured in one sitting and then I went on to download the two other books in the trilogy (every book could very satisfyingly be read alone, btw) Some fantastic imagery and writing and a scorching hot romance. I learned some very interesting things about the desert cultures and Arabic, too. I'd give it more than five stars if I could! ;)
March 2, 2012
Fantastic book from start to finish. I read it so many times my copy fell apart, and I had to go download it to my Nook to reread to my heart's content. Really amazing book in every way.
February 27, 2018
I want another miracle baby for those 2 amazing couple! , OMG iam so silly
May 12, 2012
Take a deep breath. Where do I begin with this one. I've had this book on my shopping list for months so I can read the two sequels. It is well worth the wait. This is a reunion story and ticks all my favourite buttons.
The heroine Carmen fled Farooq sixteen months ago when their time limited affair resulted in her pregnancy. She has rebuilt her life around her miracle child Mennah, the child she'd believed she would never have due to infertility issues that destroyed her first marriage.
Farooq has been searching for Carmen ever since that night when he intended to ask her marry him but instead faced disillusionment and betrayal. Betrayal because his cousin Tareq told him that Carmen had been his tool to destroy Farooq's right to the throne of Judar.
But all this pales into insignificance when Farooq learns he is the father of Carmen's child. And not just because he needs a wife and child to meet the requirements for the Throne. He wants his child, and when he sees Carmen again he realises that he wants her too. In his bed, even if her betrayal means he will guard his heart.
For Carmen this means being thrust into an alien world. A world of money and power and a different culture. A culture that requires of Farooq a marriage of state beyond this first marriage to secure his child. It also means the provision of a male heir, something Carmen knows she cannot provide.
This story and the ups and downs of the relationship between Carmen and Farooq had me in tears more than once. The passion and intensity of the lovemaking is ultra hot and verging on the erotic. The dilemma's faced by both of them are real and heart rending. The solution is just another example of why Olivia Gates heroes are the ultimate in all round alpha males.
The heroine Carmen fled Farooq sixteen months ago when their time limited affair resulted in her pregnancy. She has rebuilt her life around her miracle child Mennah, the child she'd believed she would never have due to infertility issues that destroyed her first marriage.
Farooq has been searching for Carmen ever since that night when he intended to ask her marry him but instead faced disillusionment and betrayal. Betrayal because his cousin Tareq told him that Carmen had been his tool to destroy Farooq's right to the throne of Judar.
But all this pales into insignificance when Farooq learns he is the father of Carmen's child. And not just because he needs a wife and child to meet the requirements for the Throne. He wants his child, and when he sees Carmen again he realises that he wants her too. In his bed, even if her betrayal means he will guard his heart.
For Carmen this means being thrust into an alien world. A world of money and power and a different culture. A culture that requires of Farooq a marriage of state beyond this first marriage to secure his child. It also means the provision of a male heir, something Carmen knows she cannot provide.
This story and the ups and downs of the relationship between Carmen and Farooq had me in tears more than once. The passion and intensity of the lovemaking is ultra hot and verging on the erotic. The dilemma's faced by both of them are real and heart rending. The solution is just another example of why Olivia Gates heroes are the ultimate in all round alpha males.
December 21, 2013
First of all there was much angst and conflict. I found it strange that the conflict was of their minds' creation and not based on any facts or happenings whatsoever. The Sheik's sexual prowess was so unbelievable as well as physically and medically impossible....not going into specifics.
Farooq Aal Masood, the gorgeous Crown Prince was a domineering man and, in my opinion, he was unnecessarily cruel to Carmen based not on conflict or disagreement, but of things conjured and imagined in his mind. Farooq put Carmen through hell with his mistreatment that I considered in some areas abusive, definitely mental abuse. There was a time or two where there was a fine line between making love/sex and rape. Unfortunately, the phrase 'I'm sorry' was not in his vocabulary. He was disgusting.
Carmen...was beautiful, sensual, maybe a tad bit mentally off and a doormat. I am not sure what was wrong with this weak, pathetic woman. She hardly walked without stumbling and ready to pass out at the drop of a hat. She made little attempt to talk to Farooq and question why his treatment of her was so disturbing. Neither one in this couple had any idea how to communicate and they just let their relationship hang in the balance.
The story was slow, seeming to drag on, tempting me to skip over chapters to get to the meat of the story...but it was a meatless dish...total vegetarian. It was difficult to stay focused and there were several times I came close to just stopping altogether. I'm sorry that I cannot recommend this book. I am, in fact, amazed at the reviews and how this read could possibly provoke so many positive ones.
Farooq Aal Masood, the gorgeous Crown Prince was a domineering man and, in my opinion, he was unnecessarily cruel to Carmen based not on conflict or disagreement, but of things conjured and imagined in his mind. Farooq put Carmen through hell with his mistreatment that I considered in some areas abusive, definitely mental abuse. There was a time or two where there was a fine line between making love/sex and rape. Unfortunately, the phrase 'I'm sorry' was not in his vocabulary. He was disgusting.
Carmen...was beautiful, sensual, maybe a tad bit mentally off and a doormat. I am not sure what was wrong with this weak, pathetic woman. She hardly walked without stumbling and ready to pass out at the drop of a hat. She made little attempt to talk to Farooq and question why his treatment of her was so disturbing. Neither one in this couple had any idea how to communicate and they just let their relationship hang in the balance.
The story was slow, seeming to drag on, tempting me to skip over chapters to get to the meat of the story...but it was a meatless dish...total vegetarian. It was difficult to stay focused and there were several times I came close to just stopping altogether. I'm sorry that I cannot recommend this book. I am, in fact, amazed at the reviews and how this read could possibly provoke so many positive ones.
July 27, 2017
"The Desert Lords Baby" is the story of Farooq and Carmen.
16 months ago Carmen broke up with Farooq, the prince of Judar when she finds herself unexpectedly pregnant.
Months later, he invades her life again asking for both his daughter Meenah back, as well as Carmen his wife.
Granted there are a lot of misunderstandings- the H thinks the h conspired against him as said by an evil cousin and the h never confesses the truth about her reasons to run away, it was still a well written story.
- loved the sense of humor and the witty banter
- The sex was so hot you need a shower! Like 50/10 in need fire extinguisher scale
- I loved loved loved the wedding and post wedding henna exploring scenes
- Excited about the two brothers' books
- Meenah was just adorable
- I liked how the focus remained on the main characters and not on irrelevant details
That being said, there's angst towards the end but it resolves into a pretty good HEA.
This is my fourth book by Olivia, and I am a HUGE fan of this author as I haven't been disappointed once.
Safe
4.5/5
16 months ago Carmen broke up with Farooq, the prince of Judar when she finds herself unexpectedly pregnant.
Months later, he invades her life again asking for both his daughter Meenah back, as well as Carmen his wife.
Granted there are a lot of misunderstandings- the H thinks the h conspired against him as said by an evil cousin and the h never confesses the truth about her reasons to run away, it was still a well written story.
- loved the sense of humor and the witty banter
- The sex was so hot you need a shower! Like 50/10 in need fire extinguisher scale
- I loved loved loved the wedding and post wedding henna exploring scenes
- Excited about the two brothers' books
- Meenah was just adorable
- I liked how the focus remained on the main characters and not on irrelevant details
That being said, there's angst towards the end but it resolves into a pretty good HEA.
This is my fourth book by Olivia, and I am a HUGE fan of this author as I haven't been disappointed once.
Safe
4.5/5
May 18, 2022
Original review: 5🌟
Updated
May 18/2022
Ummm 🤔 I lowered my rating mainly because after rereading it for a second time, I found I didn't like a few things 😐
🔶Many inner dialogue, MCs hiding their feelings from each other (maybe if the hero had been more bessoted).
🔶Many secrets.
🔶
🔶Special moments between main characters weren't enough for me.
Updated
May 18/2022
Ummm 🤔 I lowered my rating mainly because after rereading it for a second time, I found I didn't like a few things 😐
🔶Many inner dialogue, MCs hiding their feelings from each other (maybe if the hero had been more bessoted).
🔶Many secrets.
🔶
🔶Special moments between main characters weren't enough for me.
November 19, 2014
I just recently reread this story March 2014. I enjoyed it the first and second time. This is the story of Farooq and Carmen. This is Book #1 of the Throne of Judar series.
The story takes you on the journey of lost and found love. Their journey was heartfelt. Lies had torn them apart but when Farooq found out that Carmen had his baby without telling him and the baby was all he needed to claim the throne, he was going to make it happen. Duty comes first. The author Olivia Gates, puts you there with the hero and heroine, I felt their pain, joy and even their love. Now let's talk about sex all I can say is the scenes are hot. I love the use of the hero's language and the translations it makes the story believable to me because I can see it. The descriptions of the hero's home and land is awesome. I was close to tears (happy and sad) by the end of the book. Because sometimes love really does conquer all. Happy Reading!!!
The story takes you on the journey of lost and found love. Their journey was heartfelt. Lies had torn them apart but when Farooq found out that Carmen had his baby without telling him and the baby was all he needed to claim the throne, he was going to make it happen. Duty comes first. The author Olivia Gates, puts you there with the hero and heroine, I felt their pain, joy and even their love. Now let's talk about sex all I can say is the scenes are hot. I love the use of the hero's language and the translations it makes the story believable to me because I can see it. The descriptions of the hero's home and land is awesome. I was close to tears (happy and sad) by the end of the book. Because sometimes love really does conquer all. Happy Reading!!!
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