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Taking Risks #2
Becoming the Whiskey Princess
For better or worse, for richer or poorer, ‘til almost death do they part…
Amberlyn Reilly took a risk and found a new life in Ireland. She did something drastic and jumped in front of a loaded gun for the one she knew she couldn’t lose. And with her mother’s last request, she did more than fall in love. She fell into Declan O’Callaghan—with her eyes wide open and her damaged heart and soul leading the way.
When Irish-born Declan O’Callaghan spotted Amberlyn across the lake, he knew his life was about to change. And it did. Now he has everything he’s ever dreamed of —he’s marrying for love, and with that love, the family distillery will now be his as long as he marries before the deadline.
Things are moving fast. It’s now or never. And as their beautiful relationship grows, time is something these two don’t have a lot of. Declan’s and Amberlyn’s souls are tightly tethered, but will the questions and second thoughts of others prevent them from having a life they’ve both only begun to dream of? Will family and the obligations that come with the O’Callaghan name push them to their breaking point? Or has the Whiskey Prince truly found his happily ever after taking Amberlyn as his Princess?
Amberlyn Reilly took a risk and found a new life in Ireland. She did something drastic and jumped in front of a loaded gun for the one she knew she couldn’t lose. And with her mother’s last request, she did more than fall in love. She fell into Declan O’Callaghan—with her eyes wide open and her damaged heart and soul leading the way.
When Irish-born Declan O’Callaghan spotted Amberlyn across the lake, he knew his life was about to change. And it did. Now he has everything he’s ever dreamed of —he’s marrying for love, and with that love, the family distillery will now be his as long as he marries before the deadline.
Things are moving fast. It’s now or never. And as their beautiful relationship grows, time is something these two don’t have a lot of. Declan’s and Amberlyn’s souls are tightly tethered, but will the questions and second thoughts of others prevent them from having a life they’ve both only begun to dream of? Will family and the obligations that come with the O’Callaghan name push them to their breaking point? Or has the Whiskey Prince truly found his happily ever after taking Amberlyn as his Princess?
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 16, 2015
215 people are currently reading
1591 people want to read
About the author
Toni Aleo
101 books6,719 followersWALL STREET JOURNAL, NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY BEST SELLING AUTHOR TONI ALEO IS AN AUTHOR YOU CAN'T MISS!
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
February 23, 2015
3,5 Sweet Stars.
After everything they went through, things are finally starting to fall in place for Amberlyn and Declan. Although the deal is still up and they have to get married in about three months in order to Declan inherit the distillery, they are both happy with it.
But when the preparations begin, they start to see that’s everything is about to change. When you’re stepping up into a power position in a family that lives of rules and tradition, things are not always what they seem. And in order to belong they both have to change who they are and what they are used to.
Are they willing to change? And will these new pressures make them grow closer… or fall apart for good?
If the first one was already sweet, this one was over the top. There was a lot of cheesiness, but for some reason in this story it worked out pretty well. My problem with this book is that during at least half of it I was bored to death. I kept hoping for SOMETHING exciting to happen and it never did. When it finally begin to pick up it was a case of too little, too late.
However, this was a romantic and sweet book, very well written and in overall I enjoyed reading it. This is more YA on the verge of NA that anything else, so don’t kid yourselves with the wedding plot, thinking this your traditional adult romance, it isn’t.
If you’re in a mood for a sweet series with a nice plot, give these books a try!
Rating: 3,5 Stars.
Characters Development: Well, neither of them seem mature enough to marry, but at least they are so sweet that’s impossible not to want them happy and together. They are both a little immature, but I liked how they stood together through everything and I liked seeing them as a couple. Now, I just hope that Lena finds her own happy ending.
Steam: Meh.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
After everything they went through, things are finally starting to fall in place for Amberlyn and Declan. Although the deal is still up and they have to get married in about three months in order to Declan inherit the distillery, they are both happy with it.
But when the preparations begin, they start to see that’s everything is about to change. When you’re stepping up into a power position in a family that lives of rules and tradition, things are not always what they seem. And in order to belong they both have to change who they are and what they are used to.
Are they willing to change? And will these new pressures make them grow closer… or fall apart for good?
If the first one was already sweet, this one was over the top. There was a lot of cheesiness, but for some reason in this story it worked out pretty well. My problem with this book is that during at least half of it I was bored to death. I kept hoping for SOMETHING exciting to happen and it never did. When it finally begin to pick up it was a case of too little, too late.
However, this was a romantic and sweet book, very well written and in overall I enjoyed reading it. This is more YA on the verge of NA that anything else, so don’t kid yourselves with the wedding plot, thinking this your traditional adult romance, it isn’t.
If you’re in a mood for a sweet series with a nice plot, give these books a try!
Rating: 3,5 Stars.
Characters Development: Well, neither of them seem mature enough to marry, but at least they are so sweet that’s impossible not to want them happy and together. They are both a little immature, but I liked how they stood together through everything and I liked seeing them as a couple. Now, I just hope that Lena finds her own happy ending.
Steam: Meh.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
September 27, 2017
3.5 Stars!
Becoming the Whiskey Princess starts off right where Whiskey Prince left off. Amberlyn is recovering. She and Declan are together and happy, but both are pressured to move things a long in their relationship a little quicker than they’d like. Even though they have to get married a little faster than either one planned, they are both sure about each other. They are very much in love.
What I loved about this book… well, Declan. I loved how he always stood up for Amberlyn. He was loving and devoted to her. Knowing how different they both were, he never tried to change her and always stuck up for her. I enjoyed reading about the secondary characters as well. I loved how devoted this couple was to each other.
Becoming the Whiskey Princess was a sweet story. I adore Toni Aleo’s writing style and characters. The only reason this isn’t a higher rating for me is that I felt it was a little slow in the middle and the ending was a bit rushed. I wanted more. Overall, I did enjoy this series as a whole and especially loved the first book. It was nice to see two characters I love get their happy.
Becoming the Whiskey Princess starts off right where Whiskey Prince left off. Amberlyn is recovering. She and Declan are together and happy, but both are pressured to move things a long in their relationship a little quicker than they’d like. Even though they have to get married a little faster than either one planned, they are both sure about each other. They are very much in love.
What I loved about this book… well, Declan. I loved how he always stood up for Amberlyn. He was loving and devoted to her. Knowing how different they both were, he never tried to change her and always stuck up for her. I enjoyed reading about the secondary characters as well. I loved how devoted this couple was to each other.
Becoming the Whiskey Princess was a sweet story. I adore Toni Aleo’s writing style and characters. The only reason this isn’t a higher rating for me is that I felt it was a little slow in the middle and the ending was a bit rushed. I wanted more. Overall, I did enjoy this series as a whole and especially loved the first book. It was nice to see two characters I love get their happy.
March 22, 2015
☆ I received an ARC via Good Choice Reading in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆
The Whiskey Princess was a bittersweet read for me. While I was entirely stoked to see Declan and Amberlynn get their HEA, it was also very sad to bid them farewell.
I particularly liked the development of Amberlynn, as she grew tremendously and made it an impenitent point to still retain her identity even though she was marrying into Whiskey royalty.
I admired her, her journey as she not only acclimate to life in Ireland and with Declan, and her strife to also keep her family and the memories of her deceased parents tightly wrapped in her heart and everyday life.
As for Declan, well, he was just the ultimate boyfriend. Hot, loyal, and sweet to a T, he would do anything for Amberlynn to make her happy, even if it meant letting her go. This boy is the real deal as he goes the distance and fights for his love with his Whiskey Princess.
Loved this novel and was sad to see it end!
The Whiskey Princess was a bittersweet read for me. While I was entirely stoked to see Declan and Amberlynn get their HEA, it was also very sad to bid them farewell.
I particularly liked the development of Amberlynn, as she grew tremendously and made it an impenitent point to still retain her identity even though she was marrying into Whiskey royalty.
I admired her, her journey as she not only acclimate to life in Ireland and with Declan, and her strife to also keep her family and the memories of her deceased parents tightly wrapped in her heart and everyday life.
As for Declan, well, he was just the ultimate boyfriend. Hot, loyal, and sweet to a T, he would do anything for Amberlynn to make her happy, even if it meant letting her go. This boy is the real deal as he goes the distance and fights for his love with his Whiskey Princess.
Loved this novel and was sad to see it end!
February 21, 2015
Finally the second book - we had to wait a long time for it ☺
But I really enjoyed how the story of those two ended... and it was even a lot sexier than the first one ;)))
A really cute and funny and sexy Romance ....
again Toni trying slightly too hard to have all the Irish people talk Irish ... Do yous know what I mean, yeah? :))) But really adorable story.
March 25, 2015
immature and disrespectful protagonist. DNF @64.3% around the time when she went to that school. it's like love is vasaline that covers every character flaw. i do not want girls reading this and thinking that her behavior is acceptable.
she went around judging the family and going on about how they live in a fantasy world.
well she lives in a f*ing fantasy world if she thinks she can get married and have everything exactly the way she wants it. she is not compromising anything. is wearing a dress and going to a tea party the largest tragedy in the world. sure sure, she has values, but does she not seem realize that the family also has values, strong, deeply rooted values that are not very harmful to the relationship? she really fought the insignificant things while giving into the living situation when it should have been the other way around. i'm not a professional by any means, but she is ridiculous.
AND THE MONEY. how does she expect to find a place to live if she isn't relying on the family's money?!! and the whole foster school situation. it is not her money and she makes it very clear that she is not marrying for the money, yet she does not seem to realize that the money is not hers. she goes around offering medical treatment, clothes, a library, which is all fine and charitable, but the money is not hers and she HEAVILY rejects the values of the family funding those endeavors.
she went around judging the family and going on about how they live in a fantasy world.
well she lives in a f*ing fantasy world if she thinks she can get married and have everything exactly the way she wants it. she is not compromising anything. is wearing a dress and going to a tea party the largest tragedy in the world. sure sure, she has values, but does she not seem realize that the family also has values, strong, deeply rooted values that are not very harmful to the relationship? she really fought the insignificant things while giving into the living situation when it should have been the other way around. i'm not a professional by any means, but she is ridiculous.
AND THE MONEY. how does she expect to find a place to live if she isn't relying on the family's money?!! and the whole foster school situation. it is not her money and she makes it very clear that she is not marrying for the money, yet she does not seem to realize that the money is not hers. she goes around offering medical treatment, clothes, a library, which is all fine and charitable, but the money is not hers and she HEAVILY rejects the values of the family funding those endeavors.
December 20, 2017
I really, really loved the first book. This one? not so much.
There’s a few things that bothers me in this book, but I will start with what a really loved about it: Declan. In this book I’ve fell in love even more with him. It’s beautiful to see him grown so much from one book to another, in here he seems so much more sure of himself. His feelings for Amberlyn only made everything a little bit more sweeter. He was at her side on everything, always so devoted to her. It was so good to read him. He made me smile for the most part of this book.
Amberlyn on the other hand… I felt like her actions at second half of the book was a little bit too much. At the beginning I loved how much she was still willing to do everything to help Declan, even after she took a shot for him. But on the second half… I was not prepared to meet her immature side. Because that’s what she was for me here. She was not ready to be a wife, even less to be a princess. So this side of her seems forced to me, because everyone with half a brain knows that there’s a duty to fulfill and not even once she asked about anything. I think the things she wanted makes sense, but I’m not a fan on how she gone about it. For me she just looked like toddler throwing a tantrum at every turn, and that particular scene almost at the end? Smh… no, just, NO! At the end I was so disappointed that even the overused “I love you” was pissing me off. How many times did you need to say it at day? Argh.
So for me, It feels like I would be much more happy If It was just one book a little bit longer. This one just complicated things that shouldn’t be a problem to begin with.
There’s a few things that bothers me in this book, but I will start with what a really loved about it: Declan. In this book I’ve fell in love even more with him. It’s beautiful to see him grown so much from one book to another, in here he seems so much more sure of himself. His feelings for Amberlyn only made everything a little bit more sweeter. He was at her side on everything, always so devoted to her. It was so good to read him. He made me smile for the most part of this book.
Amberlyn on the other hand… I felt like her actions at second half of the book was a little bit too much. At the beginning I loved how much she was still willing to do everything to help Declan, even after she took a shot for him. But on the second half… I was not prepared to meet her immature side. Because that’s what she was for me here. She was not ready to be a wife, even less to be a princess. So this side of her seems forced to me, because everyone with half a brain knows that there’s a duty to fulfill and not even once she asked about anything. I think the things she wanted makes sense, but I’m not a fan on how she gone about it. For me she just looked like toddler throwing a tantrum at every turn, and that particular scene almost at the end? Smh… no, just, NO! At the end I was so disappointed that even the overused “I love you” was pissing me off. How many times did you need to say it at day? Argh.
So for me, It feels like I would be much more happy If It was just one book a little bit longer. This one just complicated things that shouldn’t be a problem to begin with.
June 19, 2015
This is the reason that some romantic novels don't need a sequel. Whiskey Prince was perfect without this book. It was too soppy and gooey and it was so boring. It went like this: I love you, snobby parents, I love you, wedding preparations, let's have sex, I love you, more bitchy parents, more preparations, I love you, more sex, everyone is in a fight, I still love you. Ugh please cut the crap.
February 8, 2016
I'm sorry but this book just didn't have any heart to it. It was very juvenile and very boring to read. The first time Declan and Amberlyn have sex he doesn't even last long enough to satisfy her. Every time they are having sex his Mom walks in on them in his room. Seriously! No knocking just barge right in, considering she has walked in on them on many occasions and then has the audacity to say I have seen you naked before. Excuse me, he is a 22 yr. old man. His Mother shouldn't be seeing him naked and acting like it's no big deal.
The whole deal with Casey just didn't seem real also.
There was just to much wrong with this book. I would not recommend reading this series.
The whole deal with Casey just didn't seem real also.
There was just to much wrong with this book. I would not recommend reading this series.
March 1, 2015
While this book had a lot of drama, part of me thinks it needed to be there. Declan and Amberlyn were moving fast due to a deadline. Like most kids they thought things would work out, but the bumps along the way made them doubt things. It didn't help that those close to them were causing them to doubt things, instead of being there for them and righting those fears.
I thought things were cleared up in a good way. I liked that Declan showed Amberlyn time and time again that he put her first, that he wouldn't turn into his dad. The ending was perfect for them and their HEA.
I thought things were cleared up in a good way. I liked that Declan showed Amberlyn time and time again that he put her first, that he wouldn't turn into his dad. The ending was perfect for them and their HEA.
February 17, 2015
4.5 stars
March 20, 2015
I keep patiently checking for a release date on this book.
The wait is over........February 16th.
The wait is over........February 16th.
no-way-jose
December 26, 2018Unfortunately I one clicked book one back when I trusted author and I didn’t investigate before buying them. 4 years later I started reading the 1st book that’s sitting in my Kindle for that time. Big mistake. Horrible book.
Needless to say, the rest of the series won’t take precious space in my Kindle. Heroine seems like a nut case of ungratefulness, unreasonable, uncompromising and disrespectful person.
👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Needless to say, the rest of the series won’t take precious space in my Kindle. Heroine seems like a nut case of ungratefulness, unreasonable, uncompromising and disrespectful person.
👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
February 5, 2018
While a decent sequel to Whiskey Prince, I could’ve done without both Amberlyn and Declan both declaring how in love they are with the other - at the end of every single chapter. No need to beat me over the head with that, really. Looking forward to Lena’s story.
February 14, 2018
This again was really good! Its the follow up to Whiskey prince. We picked up right from where we left off in Whiskey Prince. I'll admit i was super worried but im so glad that she was okay and that the bastard got what he deserved. Again, i was annoyed by their Ma but Amberlyn handled it perfectly and i was so happy with how it ended up!!! i camt wait to see what happen with Lena.
October 27, 2023
Great read.
I really enjoyed reading this book and seeing them get their HEA. It was sweet with just enough drama to be exciting too.
I really enjoyed reading this book and seeing them get their HEA. It was sweet with just enough drama to be exciting too.
March 5, 2015
I will write more later, since I just finished. But I have to just say one thing - Just stunningly beautiful!
Toni Aleo I simply adore your heart, because this book, this series is definitely written straight from there. When I read The Whiskey Prince last year I was moved because it was not the typical Toni book for me. It wasn't hockey, it wasn't overly alpha, it was just a beautiful sweet story about love emerging from the heartbreak of loss. I loved that Amberlyn and Declan were both strong characters, but both had been living their lives hidden from the world in a sense. So when they come together it is as if they have found the one person that gets them in a way they always hoped but never thought they would find. There story isn't always easy, I mean we end The Whiskey Prince with Amberlyn taking a bullet meant for Declan; but the struggles they experience felt real.
Everything about this book was perfection for me. The writing at times seemed almost lyrical. Maybe that's the Irish influences, I don't know but it works for me. Declan comes more into his own, standing up for himself and for Amberlyn. He says over and over that he "just wants to make Amberlyn happy" and he does that in spades. Amberlyn struggles a bit more in this story, but again totally believable because she's about to get married. Her world is about to change in a major way and Declan's family, especially his mother, does not make it easy. I love that she doesn't want to lose herself and that while at times she struggles to communicate that, that both she and Declan work to be there for the other. Declan is determined in a way that just resonated for me, even when Amberlyn flips out and wants to flee to her best friend he tells her "I'll be out here waiting" because he is that confident in them together. Who doesn't want their man to be that confident and patient?
Between those moments and the ones with Amberlyn dealing with the sadness of her parents being gone as she makes the biggest decisions and changes in her life, I cried multiple tears as I read this book. It's not an ugly cry, it's just an emotionally moving one.
Love, love, loved it from start to finish! Thank you Toni for writing and sharing this amazing story with us all!
+ As her eyes sparkle with love and pride, I know we have it all wrapped up. We are meant for each other. Two halves of a heart. My Amberlyn. Mo Stor.
+ "I swear, Declan, you are my salvation," she whispers, tears rolling fast along her cheeks "I wouldn't be as happy as I am with you. I try so hard to be happy, to make other people happy, and to just be the person everyone wants. But when I'm with you, I only have to be me. Sometimes that's a hot mess of tears, but I know you'll always love me."
+"It's a part of life, Amberlyn, to be scared The other thing, I know it's in there, the trust, the believing. Ya just have to find it again. It's lost in the sh*tstorm my ma has caused. I can't help ya find it; ya won't let me. So go on, I'll be waiting."
+"My dad once told me that fear is a liar. That it makes you believe something that isn't true."
+ Life is the most uncertain thing in the world. One day things are great, next day they aren't.
Toni Aleo I simply adore your heart, because this book, this series is definitely written straight from there. When I read The Whiskey Prince last year I was moved because it was not the typical Toni book for me. It wasn't hockey, it wasn't overly alpha, it was just a beautiful sweet story about love emerging from the heartbreak of loss. I loved that Amberlyn and Declan were both strong characters, but both had been living their lives hidden from the world in a sense. So when they come together it is as if they have found the one person that gets them in a way they always hoped but never thought they would find. There story isn't always easy, I mean we end The Whiskey Prince with Amberlyn taking a bullet meant for Declan; but the struggles they experience felt real.
Everything about this book was perfection for me. The writing at times seemed almost lyrical. Maybe that's the Irish influences, I don't know but it works for me. Declan comes more into his own, standing up for himself and for Amberlyn. He says over and over that he "just wants to make Amberlyn happy" and he does that in spades. Amberlyn struggles a bit more in this story, but again totally believable because she's about to get married. Her world is about to change in a major way and Declan's family, especially his mother, does not make it easy. I love that she doesn't want to lose herself and that while at times she struggles to communicate that, that both she and Declan work to be there for the other. Declan is determined in a way that just resonated for me, even when Amberlyn flips out and wants to flee to her best friend he tells her "I'll be out here waiting" because he is that confident in them together. Who doesn't want their man to be that confident and patient?
Between those moments and the ones with Amberlyn dealing with the sadness of her parents being gone as she makes the biggest decisions and changes in her life, I cried multiple tears as I read this book. It's not an ugly cry, it's just an emotionally moving one.
Love, love, loved it from start to finish! Thank you Toni for writing and sharing this amazing story with us all!
+ As her eyes sparkle with love and pride, I know we have it all wrapped up. We are meant for each other. Two halves of a heart. My Amberlyn. Mo Stor.
+ "I swear, Declan, you are my salvation," she whispers, tears rolling fast along her cheeks "I wouldn't be as happy as I am with you. I try so hard to be happy, to make other people happy, and to just be the person everyone wants. But when I'm with you, I only have to be me. Sometimes that's a hot mess of tears, but I know you'll always love me."
+"It's a part of life, Amberlyn, to be scared The other thing, I know it's in there, the trust, the believing. Ya just have to find it again. It's lost in the sh*tstorm my ma has caused. I can't help ya find it; ya won't let me. So go on, I'll be waiting."
+"My dad once told me that fear is a liar. That it makes you believe something that isn't true."
+ Life is the most uncertain thing in the world. One day things are great, next day they aren't.
February 9, 2015
*I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review*
This is book two in the Taking Risks saga. The story takes place immediately following the first book. You are going to want to read that book first before enjoying this one. Toni Aleo brings a beautiful conclusion to this tale of unlikely lovers. Declan and Amberlyn are destined to be together, but Declan's family continues to try and throw a wrench in their plans. Despite the events ending the first book, Declan's father still insists he marry before his next birthday or loose the inheritance of the whiskey distillary. Declan's mother tries hard to turn Amberlyn into a society lady.
Amberlyn just wants to be happy and for everyone else to be happy as well. She wants Declan to get the inheritance he deserves, even if that means sacrificing a bit of herself to do so. Young love is often full of angst and this couple has a few bumps along the way. For whatever reason-- the stars aligned, the moon was full, lack of sleep, or mostly damn good writing, I completely fell apart during the last 1/3 of the story. Sobbing, make-up running, torn up about this little wisp of a fighter, Amberlyn. My heart completely broke for her and yet the whole time I was cheering for her to get her happy ever after. You will need kleenix on stand-by!
Declan and his Irish tongue are so hot. He makes Amberlyn all kinds of hot and the two of them together whewww!!! But they are also awkward, humorous, fiesty, and so very much in love. The author does a great job with the two main characters, but we also get to know more about the secondary characters--Amberlyn's family, Mrs. O'Callaghan, Lena. I am hoping to see another book in this series so we can revisit Ireland with this complex family.
If you haven't read Toni's other books--The Assassin's Series--HOT hockey players--give them a try!
This is book two in the Taking Risks saga. The story takes place immediately following the first book. You are going to want to read that book first before enjoying this one. Toni Aleo brings a beautiful conclusion to this tale of unlikely lovers. Declan and Amberlyn are destined to be together, but Declan's family continues to try and throw a wrench in their plans. Despite the events ending the first book, Declan's father still insists he marry before his next birthday or loose the inheritance of the whiskey distillary. Declan's mother tries hard to turn Amberlyn into a society lady.
Amberlyn just wants to be happy and for everyone else to be happy as well. She wants Declan to get the inheritance he deserves, even if that means sacrificing a bit of herself to do so. Young love is often full of angst and this couple has a few bumps along the way. For whatever reason-- the stars aligned, the moon was full, lack of sleep, or mostly damn good writing, I completely fell apart during the last 1/3 of the story. Sobbing, make-up running, torn up about this little wisp of a fighter, Amberlyn. My heart completely broke for her and yet the whole time I was cheering for her to get her happy ever after. You will need kleenix on stand-by!
Declan and his Irish tongue are so hot. He makes Amberlyn all kinds of hot and the two of them together whewww!!! But they are also awkward, humorous, fiesty, and so very much in love. The author does a great job with the two main characters, but we also get to know more about the secondary characters--Amberlyn's family, Mrs. O'Callaghan, Lena. I am hoping to see another book in this series so we can revisit Ireland with this complex family.
If you haven't read Toni's other books--The Assassin's Series--HOT hockey players--give them a try!
February 7, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Amberlyn Riley loves Declan O'Callaghan with her whole heart, body and soul. So when she sees Casey point a gun at him, she instinctively moves to protect him, risking her life to save his. She has had enough loss in her young life and doesn't believe that she could stand to lose Declan as well.
As Amberlyn recovers, Declan is amazed at the depth of love he feels for her. Granted they have only known each other a short time, but he truly feels that she is the other half of him. With the deadline looming over him to marry, he doesn't want to force Amberlyn into doing anything she's not ready for.
As their wedding approaches, Amberlyn must deal with the his family, the social circle she is going to be a part of and the ongoing grief she has over the loss of her mother. Declan's mom, however, seems to have her own agenda and makes Amberlyn's life harder. Nothing she seems to do pleases her, and Amberlyn is growing more frustrated.
Seizing her chance at happiness, she grabs it and holds on for dear life. Declan knows she holds his heart in her hands and will do everything in his power to give her the life she's never known. Going against O'Callaghan tradition, he agrees to marry Amberlyn in the same meadow where her parents were married. As other changes come about, Declan faces opposition from his parents but he will do anything to make Ireland Amberlyn's home.
Strong characters, despite their young age, keep the reader entranced with their story. I hope we see lots more of the Whiskey Prince and his Princess.
Amberlyn Riley loves Declan O'Callaghan with her whole heart, body and soul. So when she sees Casey point a gun at him, she instinctively moves to protect him, risking her life to save his. She has had enough loss in her young life and doesn't believe that she could stand to lose Declan as well.
As Amberlyn recovers, Declan is amazed at the depth of love he feels for her. Granted they have only known each other a short time, but he truly feels that she is the other half of him. With the deadline looming over him to marry, he doesn't want to force Amberlyn into doing anything she's not ready for.
As their wedding approaches, Amberlyn must deal with the his family, the social circle she is going to be a part of and the ongoing grief she has over the loss of her mother. Declan's mom, however, seems to have her own agenda and makes Amberlyn's life harder. Nothing she seems to do pleases her, and Amberlyn is growing more frustrated.
Seizing her chance at happiness, she grabs it and holds on for dear life. Declan knows she holds his heart in her hands and will do everything in his power to give her the life she's never known. Going against O'Callaghan tradition, he agrees to marry Amberlyn in the same meadow where her parents were married. As other changes come about, Declan faces opposition from his parents but he will do anything to make Ireland Amberlyn's home.
Strong characters, despite their young age, keep the reader entranced with their story. I hope we see lots more of the Whiskey Prince and his Princess.
April 23, 2015
Coming off a high after reading The Whiskey Prince, I went straight into Becoming the Whiskey Princess, and I have to say at times I forced myself to finish reading the book. Something was just off. Amberlyn, our strong Yank herorine that I really liked in the first book just bugged the shit out of me in the second enstallment. Also, the tension in the prestigious O'Callaghan family just grated on my nerves. I know that there needs to be tension in a story for there to be a good plot, but Jesus, the mom's bitchiness and constant interruption of Declan and Amberly was just TOO MUCH, and she will forever be known as Smother O'Callaghan. I loved the book at times, I was frustrated with it at times, at yes, I wanted to throw my nook across the room when Amberlyn was being too emotional for no reason. Overall it was a meh read. Maybe if I hadn't just finished The Whiskey Prince, this would be a different scenario.
February 12, 2015
I received an advanced review copy of this book from the author for a honest review.
Before reading Whiskey Princess, I had just came off the romantic high from reading Whiskey Prince. My first thoughts when I started reading. Gone is the romance and bring on the doubt. The premise of this follow up was doubt. Where did all the romance go from the Prince???????
And the two pump chump... REALLY??? What was that??? What did that add to the story?
His mother... her storyline... I didn't buy it.
The horse and beanie at the end I found to be corny.
I just wish we had been given some romance!!!!!
I love this author and will continue to read all her books. This just wasn't a winner for me.
Before reading Whiskey Princess, I had just came off the romantic high from reading Whiskey Prince. My first thoughts when I started reading. Gone is the romance and bring on the doubt. The premise of this follow up was doubt. Where did all the romance go from the Prince???????
And the two pump chump... REALLY??? What was that??? What did that add to the story?
His mother... her storyline... I didn't buy it.
The horse and beanie at the end I found to be corny.
I just wish we had been given some romance!!!!!
I love this author and will continue to read all her books. This just wasn't a winner for me.
February 18, 2015
This book had me laughing so hard! And had tears in my eyes, love it just wish for an epilogue. 4.5 stars
February 17, 2015
Rating; 4.25/5
Review coming soon!
Review coming soon!
June 26, 2018
>Book Review – Becoming the Whiskey Princess
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 2nd in the Taking Risks series and ends in an HEA. Declan and Amberlyn are recovering from Amberlyn being shot. There is a trial for the shooter and a lot of painful old information is brought out in the open during testimony. Declan’s mom is becoming a monster-in-law to Amberlyn causing strife between her and Declan. Throughout all of the wedding planning, Declan is an absolute dream. There are things he would like, but he loves Amberlyn more and tries to do all he can to make her happy.
>Amberlyn really shows her compassion when helping others, even her shooter’s invalid mother. How Declan’s parents don’t see the treasure that is Amberlyn is beyond me. Fiona and Kane play a strong role in this book, supporting their BFFs and giving spot on advice. I think my favorite scene in the book is the one between Declan and the gravestones. How sweet is that man!
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 5 stars. Everything seemed so realistic, from the disaster of their first time to the sweetness of their relationship.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 2nd in the Taking Risks series and ends in an HEA. Declan and Amberlyn are recovering from Amberlyn being shot. There is a trial for the shooter and a lot of painful old information is brought out in the open during testimony. Declan’s mom is becoming a monster-in-law to Amberlyn causing strife between her and Declan. Throughout all of the wedding planning, Declan is an absolute dream. There are things he would like, but he loves Amberlyn more and tries to do all he can to make her happy.
>Amberlyn really shows her compassion when helping others, even her shooter’s invalid mother. How Declan’s parents don’t see the treasure that is Amberlyn is beyond me. Fiona and Kane play a strong role in this book, supporting their BFFs and giving spot on advice. I think my favorite scene in the book is the one between Declan and the gravestones. How sweet is that man!
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 5 stars. Everything seemed so realistic, from the disaster of their first time to the sweetness of their relationship.
February 24, 2015
I AM SPEECHLESS!!!!! And that is very hard for me bc I am a motor mouth! ahhhhh Can this story give me anymore feels????? If I was a blubbering mess at the end from being so happy I read the ACKNOWLEDGMENTS wow she is such a beautiful soul! I am blown away! I for REAL FOR REAL can’t even right now! I am in completely, irrevocably and madly in love with Declan O’Callaghan!!!! Toni just captured every single thing I want in a man in him but that is with every book BF she creates but ya know this is about Declan bahah Anyways wow just wow! I think I highlighted the whole book and made notes everywhere! I just loved to the moon and I don’t want to come back! It was perfect perfect perfect! There needs to be a more than 5 stars button SERIOUSLY! It should happen! Ummm hello the wedding was PERFECT! The 210 roses were perfect THE EFFIN MICKEY MOUSE EARS! And Mr & Mrs! Was even more perfect gahhhh I almost squealed when I read that part! I am busting at the seams from how happy I am! I loved it! I love the quotes! Toni just blows me away! It is crazy to think that every story we read is 26 letters formed in different beautiful ways and each story carries you to another world and I can’t fully express how much I love this story! My words are getting jumbled! BLAH! But I am so so so so happy!!!! “Amberlyn, the sun is shining and so shall you. Live a beautiful life. We are watching and cheering you on.” Like seriously this book had so many feels I wish I could put my feels on this screen! And OMG!!!! I knew Fiona was preggers bc she was smiling when she was sick awwwww I love the relationship they have with each other. They support each other and tell each other the truth even when you don’t want to hear it! They are the cutest and I love how much Kane cares for Declan and he even told Fiona to get her head our of her arse hahaha They are adorable and the greatest group of friends! Like holy canoli I can’t believe Casey wrote her that letter! Ugh like I would prob act like Amberlyn but seriously he had no remorse he was cuckoo! I need to re-read this story ASAP!!!!!!!! I want to read it over and over and over again! I need to go to Ireland ahhhh I know my thoughts are all over the place and my fingers aren’t moving as fast as my brain lol AND WHAAA!!! I was shocked that Mrs. O’Callaghan knew her mom!!!!! Wow! There was so much action in this story ah and then when she said “How does one get so lucky? To find someone who completes them?” yes where and when can I find mine lol! I know I say this alllll the time but seriously I feel like Toni writes these storie for me not to give up hope and that love doesn’t only exist in the pages of beautiful books but out there in the world we just have to be patient and life really does happen when you least expect it! Hahahah and when Amberlyn lost her V card I couldn’t stop laughing when Fiona called her and she said I’m riding with Declan and she said riding him or riding with him Fiona is so so so funny! And when she said I’m coming bahahaha Fiona said are ya now? Bahahahah and just loooove how when Amberlyn goes “I’ll be your princess.” And swooooon Declan said “No, Amberlyn, you’ll be my queen.” Him and his words!!!!! I seriously love him! And I feel for Lena! And I am happy she is going to Dublin to start a new chapter in her life and I want to know!!! I hope she gets a story and Kane and Fiona get a novella! This is one story I will hold close forever ever!!!!! “I live for moments like these. Just holding her and feeling her laugh against me. I almost lost her. These moments. That is something I’ll never forget, and because of it, I treasure her. Completely.” Leave me melting on the floor and take my heart Declan and never give it back! Sweet mother of monkey milk !!!!!!!!!!! Could he be anymore perfect! Like I know everyone is not perfect but Declan and Amberlyn found their perfect in each other and it just so yayyyy I don’t know how to explain how much this story has captivated me! Yayyyy lol and I love how their first time was goofy and awkward and it just shows that even in our fairytales things can get a little ahem bahahah and I died laughing when he said “I’ll rock yer world next time.” Bahahah Youc an rock my world anytime Declan ;) soooooo funny and It sucked to see him and his mom fighting bc it puts him in a difficult situation too bc of course he loves Amberlyn and loves his Ma and like you can’t choose sides! I and just loooooove how when they fought he waited for her outside like who does that! He is the perfect gentleman looooove it! I like how in this story they talked about how they were feelings they didn’t hold back. It makes me crazy in other stories where they don’t say their true feelings but it is like real life bc you get to hear both sides but as the character you are only seeing how you are feeling and are basically guessing how the other person is feelings and I loooooove having both points of view its my fav lol <3 and that was HORRIBLE!!!!!!! When Mrs. O’Callaghan walked in on them in his ROOM!!!! I hope I never have to got hrough that HOLY MOSES! I would die of embarrassment eeeeeeee but that was soooo funny! Blah lol The story was magical. I don’t know if it was because even through losing her parents she found Fiona and her aunt and uncle or that she somehow through serendipity had to go to the lake at that moment Declan was there or that Declan just had to meet her after that or that he cares soooo deeply for her he wanted to go with her to visit her mom and dad and I love all the signs she put through the book! Hope, love, devotion, passion! It was just everything and yeah I loved it hahah hope ya’ll do too <3 I probably forgot half of what I wanted to say but eeee I just …so many feels I loved it 5 billion stars for Toni!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2019
Toni writes what I call reward based writing where the writing unfolds and the resolution between characters is forthcoming and provides great pace. It’s quite a page turner and I felt this could’ve probably been one book joined with its sequel.
My biggest gripe about these first two books is the MOTHERFUCKING CRYING. Isn’t it irritating when someone randomly swears and uses caps? It’s the same kind of irritating when the heroine is not feeling, she’s just a great vat of dripping. My god. What ever happened to a crippling verbal knife to your gut that stuns you into silence? What about the aching hole in your chest that sucks the life from you and you feel like you’re dragging your bones around? Nope, Amberlyn and Declan cry and tears and cry and everyone cry’s. It’s not emotion if it’s just water.
My biggest gripe about these first two books is the MOTHERFUCKING CRYING. Isn’t it irritating when someone randomly swears and uses caps? It’s the same kind of irritating when the heroine is not feeling, she’s just a great vat of dripping. My god. What ever happened to a crippling verbal knife to your gut that stuns you into silence? What about the aching hole in your chest that sucks the life from you and you feel like you’re dragging your bones around? Nope, Amberlyn and Declan cry and tears and cry and everyone cry’s. It’s not emotion if it’s just water.
May 7, 2018
If I thought the first book in this series deserved 5 stars this one deserves double that!
This book deals with Amberlyn and Declan as they prepare for their wedding and the pressures that happen to both of them, especially Amberlyn. They had such a whirl wind courtship all while dealing with Amberylyn's loss, and now they have to rush the wedding! It seems like everything is against them. Not to mention Casey's trial is looming!
Through it all the love they have keeps them together, even when one of them gets too overwhelmed.
I loved the writing on this. I had real tears rolling down my face during moments (not all were sad tears, happy ones too!). You are transported into their lives and are emotionally invested in the outcome. I could not put this down until I had finished it.
This book deals with Amberlyn and Declan as they prepare for their wedding and the pressures that happen to both of them, especially Amberlyn. They had such a whirl wind courtship all while dealing with Amberylyn's loss, and now they have to rush the wedding! It seems like everything is against them. Not to mention Casey's trial is looming!
Through it all the love they have keeps them together, even when one of them gets too overwhelmed.
I loved the writing on this. I had real tears rolling down my face during moments (not all were sad tears, happy ones too!). You are transported into their lives and are emotionally invested in the outcome. I could not put this down until I had finished it.
February 16, 2018
Beautiful duet
This was a very emotional and moving story. Every little girl dreams of her Prince showing up on a horse to save her. But what you get in this story is not only the white horse and prince but you get his savior. His love. His treasure. Someone who completes him and challenges him. Amberlynn was everything and more to Declan. And Declan was her safe spot. Her protector. He gave her everything she was missing and so much more. Blue wedding dress??? Oh hell yes, baby!
This was a very emotional and moving story. Every little girl dreams of her Prince showing up on a horse to save her. But what you get in this story is not only the white horse and prince but you get his savior. His love. His treasure. Someone who completes him and challenges him. Amberlynn was everything and more to Declan. And Declan was her safe spot. Her protector. He gave her everything she was missing and so much more. Blue wedding dress??? Oh hell yes, baby!
July 5, 2018
After getting shot Amberlyn is recovering in the hospital but having dreams about her mom. Declan is at her side till she wakes up. He feels guilty thinking it is his fault. Amberlyn is determined that he quits the guilt trip. They both love each other and plan to get married. But what she does not know is that there is a certain way that Declan’s family acts and Amberlyn has her own way. Will there be clashes? Will she be able to cope and will Declan understand? Lots of challenges coming their way. Will the Whiskey Prince get his Whiskey Princess? Great story!
January 23, 2018
i’m a sucker for foreign accents (who isn’t?) and i just really love Declan. this & whiskey prince was romantic and had a lot of humor. i enjoyed the story, was a little disappointed with how this book ended- there were some loose ends so i’m hoping there will be a continuation! (i know the 3rd book is about Lena but i want to see how Kane + Fiona’s story plays out) but it was a good read! makes me want to visit ireland 🇮🇪
January 16, 2018
And bring on the tissues yet again. Seriously so good. Becoming the Whiskey Princess had me both laughing at the meddling mother and in tears with the emotions Amberlyn and Declan go through throughout this one. It's beautiful and emotional. Full of love and healing. Amberlyn and Declan are perfect. I really can't wait for the next book.
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