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Heirs & Spares: Betwixt the Sheets Edition
AMAZON BEST SELLER
For those who like more spice in their (k)nights . . .
It's 1569. Elizabeth I sits on the English throne, the Reformation inflames the continent, and whispers of war abound. But in Troixden, just north of France, the Lady Annelore isn't interested in royal politics. Times are hard, taxes are high, and the people in her duchy need her help just to survive. Her widowed father is a good man easily distracted by horses, and her newly knighted childhood friend . . . well, he has plans of his own. Then Annelore receives a call she can't ignore. When Troixden's sadistic king dies childless, his younger brother William returns from exile to find his beloved country on the brink of civil war. He's in desperate need of the stability that comes with a bride and heirs. But Annelore, his chosen queen, won't come quietly. Now the future of Troixden lies in the hands of two people who never wanted the power they've received and never dreamed that from duty and honor they might find love and a path to peace. Heirs & Spares is one part history, two parts palace plotting, and a whole lot of spicy romantic intrigue. Break out the spiced wine and sink into this rousing read.
This is the “Betwixt the Sheets” version. For a warm romance, please see the “Closed Bed Curtains” version.
For those who like more spice in their (k)nights . . .
It's 1569. Elizabeth I sits on the English throne, the Reformation inflames the continent, and whispers of war abound. But in Troixden, just north of France, the Lady Annelore isn't interested in royal politics. Times are hard, taxes are high, and the people in her duchy need her help just to survive. Her widowed father is a good man easily distracted by horses, and her newly knighted childhood friend . . . well, he has plans of his own. Then Annelore receives a call she can't ignore. When Troixden's sadistic king dies childless, his younger brother William returns from exile to find his beloved country on the brink of civil war. He's in desperate need of the stability that comes with a bride and heirs. But Annelore, his chosen queen, won't come quietly. Now the future of Troixden lies in the hands of two people who never wanted the power they've received and never dreamed that from duty and honor they might find love and a path to peace. Heirs & Spares is one part history, two parts palace plotting, and a whole lot of spicy romantic intrigue. Break out the spiced wine and sink into this rousing read.
This is the “Betwixt the Sheets” version. For a warm romance, please see the “Closed Bed Curtains” version.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2025
6 people are currently reading
1562 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Spohr
5 books37 followersJ. L. Spohr is the author of The Realm Series, Heirs & Spares (2013), God & King (2014), Crown & Thorns (2016) and several short stories. She has studied the trials and tribulations of royals since she watched Princess Diana take that long walk to the altar, and turned her attention to historical fiction and fictional monarchies after studying the Reformation in graduate school.
You can follow her at www.jlspohr.com, facebook.com/jlspohr or @jlspohr. Also, you can sign up for her newsletter at jlspohr.com where you can get all the latest news on events, contests, freebies and upcoming books.
You can follow her at www.jlspohr.com, facebook.com/jlspohr or @jlspohr. Also, you can sign up for her newsletter at jlspohr.com where you can get all the latest news on events, contests, freebies and upcoming books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 15, 2025
3.5 stars. Good, but also frustrating. This ended on a cliffhanger and I just don’t have it in me to continue the series. This just isn’t holding my attention enough to read two more books about the same couple and everyone trying to betray them.
Safety is a tiny bit questionable. The heroine does kiss OM at the beginning and he causes a lot of drama throughout the story, although the heroine has no interest in him once she gets to know the hero better. The hero kisses OW on page and intends to marry her, but those plans fall through when he learns she’s not a virgin (it is shared publicly so his hands are tied). He also has a different OW come on to him, and he considers taking her to his bed, almost goes through with it, gets hard at her touch, etc. He only stops because he has some disdain for the woman for trying to betray the heroine (after the heroine was good to her). I was very frustrated that he allows this OW to continue to be in service to the heroine after this scene, and doesn’t tell the heroine about her actions. Overall, in the scheme of the story, these things all felt like small potatoes. There’s a lot that happens, and once the MCs are together, they are all about each other.
Safety is a tiny bit questionable. The heroine does kiss OM at the beginning and he causes a lot of drama throughout the story, although the heroine has no interest in him once she gets to know the hero better. The hero kisses OW on page and intends to marry her, but those plans fall through when he learns she’s not a virgin (it is shared publicly so his hands are tied). He also has a different OW come on to him, and he considers taking her to his bed, almost goes through with it, gets hard at her touch, etc. He only stops because he has some disdain for the woman for trying to betray the heroine (after the heroine was good to her). I was very frustrated that he allows this OW to continue to be in service to the heroine after this scene, and doesn’t tell the heroine about her actions. Overall, in the scheme of the story, these things all felt like small potatoes. There’s a lot that happens, and once the MCs are together, they are all about each other.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2025
3.5 stars
Heirs & Spares by Jennie Spohr is a book I picked up simply because the summary sounded interesting and I'm glad I did. I'm now hooked on the series and need to read book two to see what happens next for these characters.
Our main fmc is Lady Annelore who lives in Troixden, just north of France with her widowed father (a Duke), and she has never had any interest in politics or court. She's expected that her newly knighted childhood friend would come home and they would marry and live a quiet life. But when Troixden's sadistic king died childless and his younger brother William returned from exile to find his country on the brink of war, things change quickly.
William knows he needs to find a bride and secure his throne so he takes a tour of his lands to meet the daughters of his Lords and find a wife. When he finally makes his choice, after many challenges, he lands on Lady Annelore and she is not happy or impressed by the idea.
I enjoyed this book and I thought it had plenty of court intrigue, politics, and danger. Annelore and William eventually learn to love each other but they really don't know who they can trust because there are secrets everywhere. Even those they think are there to help and protect them have things to hide.
If you're looking for a historical romance with plenty of drama and court intrigue, I think you will enjoy this one. I'll definitely grab the next installment (spicy version) to see what happens next for this pair as they navigate their way through everything.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
Heirs & Spares by Jennie Spohr is a book I picked up simply because the summary sounded interesting and I'm glad I did. I'm now hooked on the series and need to read book two to see what happens next for these characters.
Our main fmc is Lady Annelore who lives in Troixden, just north of France with her widowed father (a Duke), and she has never had any interest in politics or court. She's expected that her newly knighted childhood friend would come home and they would marry and live a quiet life. But when Troixden's sadistic king died childless and his younger brother William returned from exile to find his country on the brink of war, things change quickly.
William knows he needs to find a bride and secure his throne so he takes a tour of his lands to meet the daughters of his Lords and find a wife. When he finally makes his choice, after many challenges, he lands on Lady Annelore and she is not happy or impressed by the idea.
I enjoyed this book and I thought it had plenty of court intrigue, politics, and danger. Annelore and William eventually learn to love each other but they really don't know who they can trust because there are secrets everywhere. Even those they think are there to help and protect them have things to hide.
If you're looking for a historical romance with plenty of drama and court intrigue, I think you will enjoy this one. I'll definitely grab the next installment (spicy version) to see what happens next for this pair as they navigate their way through everything.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2025
Lady Annalore is the daughter of Duke of Beaubourg in the country of Troixden, which is just to the north of France (which is where actual Belgium is now, but I don’t believe it’s ever been called Troixden). She is a midwife, outspoken, and plans on marrying her childhood best friend Bryan who has recently been knighted. Meanwhile, the former king dies childless and his exiled brother William returns to take the throne but because of politics (the growing strain between Catholics and the new hot thing, Protestantism, William must marry quickly and conceive heirs to ensure the stability of his kingdom. He ends up picking Annalore from the eligible young women in the kingdom by error, the sexier young woman William originally selected turned out to be unsuitable because she had sexual relations before and he’s now left with Annalore.
The premise sounds pretty interesting. I like historical fiction and I like historical romance–also a book not set in regency England?! Wow, that’s refreshing! However, I found some issues that wormed into my medieval European history studying self and I could not get over.
The main issue is that the book did not feel like it was set in any particular country. It was set in Troixden (Belgium) but there was no description of the clothing, food, countryside that would make it feel any different from any other generic historical setting. For example they use the English title of Earl in the book, but it looks like Belgium would have used Count. Additionally the date of the book was set in 1569 but they talk about hiding away in America or being shipped off to the Americas, but at that time, the Mayflower had not landed, and Jamestown colony had not been established. It was just conquistadors running around the New World, so there is no way anyone was thinking about transporting people to America. It’s these kinds of historical inaccuracies that made me wonder if perhaps this book had originally been set in another time and place and re-written to a more “unique” setting but without the appropriate updates in the story.
I also had some issues with some of the writing. While the characters were OK, even if they read more modern than they should have, there were some issues with word choices such as, describing a woman’s neck as “aquiline”. I looked it up and asked two very smart friends to confirm that necks aren’t aquiline, because it’s generally describing noses with a hook similar to a hawk’s beak. And not as egregious but also not accurate was a description of another woman’s cheeks as “naturally rouged”. Rouging is adding color to your cheeks, like blush…you can’t naturally be rouged unless your cheeks exude makeup??
I thought the William and Annalore’s chemistry was ok. I did not like the plot twist with Bryan. For a book that described itself as “a whole lot of spicy intrigue” I expected a lot more spice and intrigue. I would honestly give this book like a spice level of like 2.5 out of 5; it’s technically open door, but it is not at the level of most romantasy books. There are readers who will appreciate this novel, unfortunately I, as a pedantic nerd, was not one of them.
Thank you to NetGalley and River Grove Books for the ARC.
The premise sounds pretty interesting. I like historical fiction and I like historical romance–also a book not set in regency England?! Wow, that’s refreshing! However, I found some issues that wormed into my medieval European history studying self and I could not get over.
The main issue is that the book did not feel like it was set in any particular country. It was set in Troixden (Belgium) but there was no description of the clothing, food, countryside that would make it feel any different from any other generic historical setting. For example they use the English title of Earl in the book, but it looks like Belgium would have used Count. Additionally the date of the book was set in 1569 but they talk about hiding away in America or being shipped off to the Americas, but at that time, the Mayflower had not landed, and Jamestown colony had not been established. It was just conquistadors running around the New World, so there is no way anyone was thinking about transporting people to America. It’s these kinds of historical inaccuracies that made me wonder if perhaps this book had originally been set in another time and place and re-written to a more “unique” setting but without the appropriate updates in the story.
I also had some issues with some of the writing. While the characters were OK, even if they read more modern than they should have, there were some issues with word choices such as, describing a woman’s neck as “aquiline”. I looked it up and asked two very smart friends to confirm that necks aren’t aquiline, because it’s generally describing noses with a hook similar to a hawk’s beak. And not as egregious but also not accurate was a description of another woman’s cheeks as “naturally rouged”. Rouging is adding color to your cheeks, like blush…you can’t naturally be rouged unless your cheeks exude makeup??
I thought the William and Annalore’s chemistry was ok. I did not like the plot twist with Bryan. For a book that described itself as “a whole lot of spicy intrigue” I expected a lot more spice and intrigue. I would honestly give this book like a spice level of like 2.5 out of 5; it’s technically open door, but it is not at the level of most romantasy books. There are readers who will appreciate this novel, unfortunately I, as a pedantic nerd, was not one of them.
Thank you to NetGalley and River Grove Books for the ARC.
October 8, 2025
Aw, man.
I was really delighted by the premise here, with a time period and concept I both study and enjoy reading about, but unfortunately, this was a miss for me. Like I said, I think the idea was there, but a lot of the plot, characterization, and wording had me not really enjoying my time. Despite being set up like an enemies-to-lovers tale, I found there to be very little 'enemies' in that part, with the fmc just seemingly.... deciding she was cool with him without much page time. And speaking of page time, a truly expansive amount was dedicated to meetings in court or chatter amongst the fmc and her ladies-in-waiting, which sadly got quite dull, and added little to any sort of greater plot or development between the characters; I felt there were constant sprinkles of there being a greater arc or deeper intrigue, but it continued to come up short. The actual conflict with the OM and vaguely treacherous court members was minimal at most unfortunately, and I felt I was mostly reading castle functions with a lot of sex that wasn't telling me anything about the characters.
And I wanted that-- more about the characters. I got a lot of smut, but I felt by the end I knew extremely little about the actual main characters. Little of their past, their quirks, their interactions beyond shags. I just wasn't under the impression of development or depth being at play at all, unfortunately. Which I can sometimes shrug off somewhat for solid spice, but reading spice with wording such as "creamy clavicles" and the mmc's dick being compared to a bratwurst (listen, I had one from trader joe's the other day, and it was quite small), did not make me exactly crave more. Also, her vagina tasting like oranges and sugar. I found myself alarmed. That's not a healthy flavor, girlie.
Some inconsistencies just wore me down to the rating I have, sadly. From the fmc's hair seemingly changing early on, to some grammatical and punctuation issues, to the nature of the jousting, and alas, the fmc's horse. She kept switching from filly to mare, which, as a horse girl, I found nagging. Especially when described as a "snow-white filly," which, if she's the actual age of a filly, wouldn't actually be possible.
Cool dialogue, though.
I was really delighted by the premise here, with a time period and concept I both study and enjoy reading about, but unfortunately, this was a miss for me. Like I said, I think the idea was there, but a lot of the plot, characterization, and wording had me not really enjoying my time. Despite being set up like an enemies-to-lovers tale, I found there to be very little 'enemies' in that part, with the fmc just seemingly.... deciding she was cool with him without much page time. And speaking of page time, a truly expansive amount was dedicated to meetings in court or chatter amongst the fmc and her ladies-in-waiting, which sadly got quite dull, and added little to any sort of greater plot or development between the characters; I felt there were constant sprinkles of there being a greater arc or deeper intrigue, but it continued to come up short. The actual conflict with the OM and vaguely treacherous court members was minimal at most unfortunately, and I felt I was mostly reading castle functions with a lot of sex that wasn't telling me anything about the characters.
And I wanted that-- more about the characters. I got a lot of smut, but I felt by the end I knew extremely little about the actual main characters. Little of their past, their quirks, their interactions beyond shags. I just wasn't under the impression of development or depth being at play at all, unfortunately. Which I can sometimes shrug off somewhat for solid spice, but reading spice with wording such as "creamy clavicles" and the mmc's dick being compared to a bratwurst (listen, I had one from trader joe's the other day, and it was quite small), did not make me exactly crave more. Also, her vagina tasting like oranges and sugar. I found myself alarmed. That's not a healthy flavor, girlie.
Some inconsistencies just wore me down to the rating I have, sadly. From the fmc's hair seemingly changing early on, to some grammatical and punctuation issues, to the nature of the jousting, and alas, the fmc's horse. She kept switching from filly to mare, which, as a horse girl, I found nagging. Especially when described as a "snow-white filly," which, if she's the actual age of a filly, wouldn't actually be possible.
Cool dialogue, though.
October 10, 2025
3.5 stars
Heirs & Spares is a historical romance featuring knights, court intrigue, and spice.
When William returns from exile to claim the throne in place of his late brother, he finds his kingdom on the brink of war, reformation, and the urge to have an heir. His rather unwilling bride, Lady Annelore, is even less enthusiastic about the prospect of becoming William's wife, rumored to be the ruthless and unscrupulous king. But when Annelore realizes what is actually true about the initial rumors about her king, the two grow closer.
I found the setting of an arranged marriage and the historical setting very promising. Annelore is a strong-willed young woman who nevertheless stands by her feelings and does not come across as too sassy. Contrary to his reputation, William is a fair king and a rake, but when he meets Annelore, we get to see his gentle and playful sides.
"With all that I am, and all that I have, Anna."
Overall, I found the book entertaining. There are multiple points of view, so you can see the dangers facing the main characters from all sides and you eagerly await justice. The historical setting is underscored by the good old English narrative style, although this took some getting used to. The love story between Annelore and William was sweet, and the spice scenes were also nice, but unfortunately told a little too quickly to really understand the change of heart from enemies to lovers.
"I'm a king, and yet the changing whims of a mere wee woman brings me to my knees."
The book is suitable for fans of historical love stories with kings, courts, and intrigue, as well as beautiful intimate scenes.
For those who don't like such tropes, it should be mentioned that there is OW content at the beginning/middle of the story and also OM content throughout the story. [Spoiler: At the beginning, William desires and kisses another woman whom he actually wanted to marry, and after the wedding, out of frustration, he almost sleeps with another woman. Annelore's childhood friend, who is in love with her, appears throughout the book and causes trouble.]
Many thanks to the team at Spohr, Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd, and NetGalley for the free e-ARC.
Heirs & Spares is a historical romance featuring knights, court intrigue, and spice.
When William returns from exile to claim the throne in place of his late brother, he finds his kingdom on the brink of war, reformation, and the urge to have an heir. His rather unwilling bride, Lady Annelore, is even less enthusiastic about the prospect of becoming William's wife, rumored to be the ruthless and unscrupulous king. But when Annelore realizes what is actually true about the initial rumors about her king, the two grow closer.
I found the setting of an arranged marriage and the historical setting very promising. Annelore is a strong-willed young woman who nevertheless stands by her feelings and does not come across as too sassy. Contrary to his reputation, William is a fair king and a rake, but when he meets Annelore, we get to see his gentle and playful sides.
"With all that I am, and all that I have, Anna."
Overall, I found the book entertaining. There are multiple points of view, so you can see the dangers facing the main characters from all sides and you eagerly await justice. The historical setting is underscored by the good old English narrative style, although this took some getting used to. The love story between Annelore and William was sweet, and the spice scenes were also nice, but unfortunately told a little too quickly to really understand the change of heart from enemies to lovers.
"I'm a king, and yet the changing whims of a mere wee woman brings me to my knees."
The book is suitable for fans of historical love stories with kings, courts, and intrigue, as well as beautiful intimate scenes.
For those who don't like such tropes, it should be mentioned that there is OW content at the beginning/middle of the story and also OM content throughout the story. [Spoiler: At the beginning, William desires and kisses another woman whom he actually wanted to marry, and after the wedding, out of frustration, he almost sleeps with another woman. Annelore's childhood friend, who is in love with her, appears throughout the book and causes trouble.]
Many thanks to the team at Spohr, Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd, and NetGalley for the free e-ARC.
December 4, 2025
📚Heirs & Spares
✍🏻Jennie L.Spohr
Blurb:
For those who like more spice in their (k)nights . . .
It's 1569. Elizabeth I sits on the English throne, the Reformation inflames the continent, and whispers of war abound. But in Troixden, just north of France, the Lady Annelore isn't interested in royal politics. Times are hard, taxes are high, and the people in her duchy need her help just to survive. Her widowed father is a good man easily distracted by horses, and her newly knighted childhood friend . . . well, he has plans of his own. Then Annelore receives a call she can't ignore. When Troixden's sadistic king dies childless, his younger brother William returns from exile to find his beloved country on the brink of civil war. He's in desperate need of the stability that comes with a bride and heirs. But Annelore, his chosen queen, won't come quietly. Now the future of Troixden lies in the hands of two people who never wanted the power they've received and never dreamed that from duty and honor they might find love and a path to peace. Heirs & Spares is one part history, two parts palace plotting, and a whole lot of spicy romantic intrigue. Break out the spiced wine and sink into this rousing read.
This is the “Betwixt the Sheets” version. For a warm romance, please see the “Closed Bed Curtains” version.
My Thoughts:
Lady Annelora had plans for her life, her childhood friend would return home with his newly knighted status and they would get married and live happily ever after. But now the king has requested her presence as one of the women he will choose between to be his bride. Annelora is convinced this would not be a good fit for her and just needs to ensure the kings sees things her way, until her future is decided and she is the new queen.
I appreciate the tension that is created by having the characters facing the challenges of royalty, duty, while getting to know eachother and discovering their common ground.
Thanks NetGalley, River Grove Books and Author Jennie L. Spohr for the advanced copy of "Heirs & Spares" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#RiverGroveBooks
#JennieLSpohr
#Heirs&Spares
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Jennie L.Spohr
Blurb:
For those who like more spice in their (k)nights . . .
It's 1569. Elizabeth I sits on the English throne, the Reformation inflames the continent, and whispers of war abound. But in Troixden, just north of France, the Lady Annelore isn't interested in royal politics. Times are hard, taxes are high, and the people in her duchy need her help just to survive. Her widowed father is a good man easily distracted by horses, and her newly knighted childhood friend . . . well, he has plans of his own. Then Annelore receives a call she can't ignore. When Troixden's sadistic king dies childless, his younger brother William returns from exile to find his beloved country on the brink of civil war. He's in desperate need of the stability that comes with a bride and heirs. But Annelore, his chosen queen, won't come quietly. Now the future of Troixden lies in the hands of two people who never wanted the power they've received and never dreamed that from duty and honor they might find love and a path to peace. Heirs & Spares is one part history, two parts palace plotting, and a whole lot of spicy romantic intrigue. Break out the spiced wine and sink into this rousing read.
This is the “Betwixt the Sheets” version. For a warm romance, please see the “Closed Bed Curtains” version.
My Thoughts:
Lady Annelora had plans for her life, her childhood friend would return home with his newly knighted status and they would get married and live happily ever after. But now the king has requested her presence as one of the women he will choose between to be his bride. Annelora is convinced this would not be a good fit for her and just needs to ensure the kings sees things her way, until her future is decided and she is the new queen.
I appreciate the tension that is created by having the characters facing the challenges of royalty, duty, while getting to know eachother and discovering their common ground.
Thanks NetGalley, River Grove Books and Author Jennie L. Spohr for the advanced copy of "Heirs & Spares" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#RiverGroveBooks
#JennieLSpohr
#Heirs&Spares
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 29, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, publisher River Grove Books, and author J.L. Spohr for providing an eARC. I'm leaving this review voluntarily and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
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For being advertised as the "betwixt the sheets" edition, this was sorely lacking in spice for me. It doesn't start until 53% and then while it is open door, it's not terribly spicy, it's much more in line with like, grandma's harlequin novels type of spice. We're talking about "coupling" and "heaving bosoms", kind of spice. "Smexy", the author calls it, a portmanteau of smutty and sexy.
The enemies to lovers aspect wasn't working for me either, since the FMC didn't have any reason to hate the king other than some dumb assumptions she made about him that were, to her own admission, wrong. The MMC is nothing but kind and tolerant to her when by all rights he could have just not married her, or had her tossed in a dungeon for treason. And that's another thing: others that committed reason were also just politely pardoned or sentenced to a gentle exile. It felt very... passive. Sometimes heads gotta roll, ok?
The politics and world building was interesting enough to keep me reading, although the plot twist and secret villain weren't really surprising and I'm not even sure it was supposed to be, since it was telegraphed pretty hard early on. Still, I had hoped another plot twist would reveal itself or that there'd be a deeper intrigue but there wasn't. Disappointed.
.
.
.
For being advertised as the "betwixt the sheets" edition, this was sorely lacking in spice for me. It doesn't start until 53% and then while it is open door, it's not terribly spicy, it's much more in line with like, grandma's harlequin novels type of spice. We're talking about "coupling" and "heaving bosoms", kind of spice. "Smexy", the author calls it, a portmanteau of smutty and sexy.
The enemies to lovers aspect wasn't working for me either, since the FMC didn't have any reason to hate the king other than some dumb assumptions she made about him that were, to her own admission, wrong. The MMC is nothing but kind and tolerant to her when by all rights he could have just not married her, or had her tossed in a dungeon for treason. And that's another thing: others that committed reason were also just politely pardoned or sentenced to a gentle exile. It felt very... passive. Sometimes heads gotta roll, ok?
The politics and world building was interesting enough to keep me reading, although the plot twist and secret villain weren't really surprising and I'm not even sure it was supposed to be, since it was telegraphed pretty hard early on. Still, I had hoped another plot twist would reveal itself or that there'd be a deeper intrigue but there wasn't. Disappointed.
July 14, 2025
Okay, historical romance fans—this is the book that’s been missing from your TBR. Jennie L. Spohr’s Heirs & Spares is like if The Tudors, Bridgerton, and Ever After had a secret baby and raised it in a monastery with a sword in one hand and a crown in the other.
Set in the fictional duchy of Troixden, the story follows Prince William, a brooding exiled royal called back to marry and save his crumbling kingdom. He’s all reluctant duty and fierce loyalty, and then there’s Annelore. She’s devout, outspoken, and way more than a political pawn. Their arranged marriage? Tension-filled and slow-burny in the best way. The stakes are high, the chemistry is fire, and the courtly drama is so juicy I was basically binge-reading like it was a Netflix series.
What I loved most? The feminist undertones woven into a deeply patriarchal world. Annelore has agency, grit, and a STRONG voice, and watching her push back against the crown and still fall in love felt empowering. Plus, the historical world-building is chef’s kiss (I loved the map) immersive without ever feeling dense. There’s religion, rebellion, royal secrets, and yes, the desperate need for an heir (wink).
If you love slow burn + royalty + power plays = this is your moment.
Set in the fictional duchy of Troixden, the story follows Prince William, a brooding exiled royal called back to marry and save his crumbling kingdom. He’s all reluctant duty and fierce loyalty, and then there’s Annelore. She’s devout, outspoken, and way more than a political pawn. Their arranged marriage? Tension-filled and slow-burny in the best way. The stakes are high, the chemistry is fire, and the courtly drama is so juicy I was basically binge-reading like it was a Netflix series.
What I loved most? The feminist undertones woven into a deeply patriarchal world. Annelore has agency, grit, and a STRONG voice, and watching her push back against the crown and still fall in love felt empowering. Plus, the historical world-building is chef’s kiss (I loved the map) immersive without ever feeling dense. There’s religion, rebellion, royal secrets, and yes, the desperate need for an heir (wink).
If you love slow burn + royalty + power plays = this is your moment.
October 17, 2025
This may not have been a perfect 4 stars but the bottom line is I was entertained throughout the book even with some imperfections. This gave me Evita vibes and when that movie came out I was obsessed with it. It is difficult to read a Father giving his daughter away for benefits unknown at the time but that's how it was back then. It is difficult to read historical fiction when I feel I am seeing this stuff today. With that said, I quite enjoyed this book. There was so much angst, which I loved. She doesn't even realize that he may not what to be there just as much as she did not.
To watch this unfold was inspiring in a way, taking the good from a difficult situation. The spice was there but not too much in my opinion. If you are looking to find imperfections in the history, maybe this isn't for you. If you re wanting a really entertaining historical fiction, this is it. The author has studied the trials and tribulations of the royals so I could feel that in her writing.
Thank you River Grove Books and Greenleaf Book Group for the beautiful book. These honest opinions are my own.
꧁𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼꧂
🧐 “ 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙧 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚?”
To watch this unfold was inspiring in a way, taking the good from a difficult situation. The spice was there but not too much in my opinion. If you are looking to find imperfections in the history, maybe this isn't for you. If you re wanting a really entertaining historical fiction, this is it. The author has studied the trials and tribulations of the royals so I could feel that in her writing.
Thank you River Grove Books and Greenleaf Book Group for the beautiful book. These honest opinions are my own.
꧁𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼꧂
🧐 “ 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙧 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚?”
March 31, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley
If you happen to enjoy stories that fall into historical romance, drama and court intrigue this could be for you. This one is definitely outside of my normal wheelhouse, but I took a chance and am glad that I did. I got a taste for something new, and will likely be continuing this. I felt like I was thrown back in time. We have the FMC Anna who is in love with her childhood friend who is newly knighted to the King named Bryan, until she is chosen to be a candidate to be wed to the newly crowned King William, who's brother died childless leaving him the throne and back from exile. The author's writing was great, and did well with imagery to pull us in. The characters have depth and chemistry. This was a brief read, but also quite enjoyable. I could see myself reading it again when I need to delve back in time.
There are two version of this.
The version I received is the “Betwixt the Sheets” version. For a closed door experience, please see the “Closed Bed Curtains” version. The end of this book does have "Betwixt the Sheets Editions of books available 2025".
If you happen to enjoy stories that fall into historical romance, drama and court intrigue this could be for you. This one is definitely outside of my normal wheelhouse, but I took a chance and am glad that I did. I got a taste for something new, and will likely be continuing this. I felt like I was thrown back in time. We have the FMC Anna who is in love with her childhood friend who is newly knighted to the King named Bryan, until she is chosen to be a candidate to be wed to the newly crowned King William, who's brother died childless leaving him the throne and back from exile. The author's writing was great, and did well with imagery to pull us in. The characters have depth and chemistry. This was a brief read, but also quite enjoyable. I could see myself reading it again when I need to delve back in time.
There are two version of this.
The version I received is the “Betwixt the Sheets” version. For a closed door experience, please see the “Closed Bed Curtains” version. The end of this book does have "Betwixt the Sheets Editions of books available 2025".
April 6, 2025
Annelore, a Duke’s daughter, is taken from her little village to marry the new King, William. She hates him before meeting him strictly based on his brother and dad’s previous rule. At first some of the dialogue was hard to follow, but that could have just been the arc formatting.
When I first picked up this book, I read it until after 3 AM! It wasn't like insane good but just had me hooked. It's very regency (language choices, his cousin wants him and tries to seduce him, etc), it’s got a bit of court machinations, but the FMC and MMC both seem very into each other at like 40%.
The rest took a couple days and it wasn't quite hitting like it originally did, but I think since they got together so early and both obviously cared about each other that I was nervous about what was going to go wrong (sort of spoiler: it's a happy ending but there are more books that add new problems). It was good for the genre that it was - and gave me a nice break from romantasy for a second. I don’t think I will continue their story because I just don't think that this sort of regency romance quite does it for me, but I enjoyed it nonetheless!
⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
When I first picked up this book, I read it until after 3 AM! It wasn't like insane good but just had me hooked. It's very regency (language choices, his cousin wants him and tries to seduce him, etc), it’s got a bit of court machinations, but the FMC and MMC both seem very into each other at like 40%.
The rest took a couple days and it wasn't quite hitting like it originally did, but I think since they got together so early and both obviously cared about each other that I was nervous about what was going to go wrong (sort of spoiler: it's a happy ending but there are more books that add new problems). It was good for the genre that it was - and gave me a nice break from romantasy for a second. I don’t think I will continue their story because I just don't think that this sort of regency romance quite does it for me, but I enjoyed it nonetheless!
⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
March 25, 2025
Thank you Jennie L. Spohr and Netgalley for the ARC.
This was so much fun. In the beginning I got Medieval Julie Garwood ✨vibes✨, which were my gateway to historical romance 20 years ago. Anna is “in love” with her childhood friend, Sir Bryan, but then the newly crowned King William chooses her as a potential candidate for his consort; so The Bachelor but make it historical lol.
Anna begrudgingly presents herself to court because she wants to marry Bryan and has heard unsavory things about the king. She also has to navigate the politics of the court; anyone who watched The Tudors, Wolf Hall and similar shows can anticipate the drama. So we embark on a journey of self discovery and clearing misconceptions about others (about William specifically).
I appreciate that the author published a spicy (betwixt the sheets) version and a closed door version.
This book is the first in The Realm series, published between 2013 - 2016, so I am assuming this is a re-release? And it is more “Tudor era political intrigue” than romance, but I think I would enjoy that too.
This was so much fun. In the beginning I got Medieval Julie Garwood ✨vibes✨, which were my gateway to historical romance 20 years ago. Anna is “in love” with her childhood friend, Sir Bryan, but then the newly crowned King William chooses her as a potential candidate for his consort; so The Bachelor but make it historical lol.
Anna begrudgingly presents herself to court because she wants to marry Bryan and has heard unsavory things about the king. She also has to navigate the politics of the court; anyone who watched The Tudors, Wolf Hall and similar shows can anticipate the drama. So we embark on a journey of self discovery and clearing misconceptions about others (about William specifically).
I appreciate that the author published a spicy (betwixt the sheets) version and a closed door version.
This book is the first in The Realm series, published between 2013 - 2016, so I am assuming this is a re-release? And it is more “Tudor era political intrigue” than romance, but I think I would enjoy that too.
November 8, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!
If you liked Bridgerton, specially Queen Charlotte I would recommend Heirs&Spares.
It had similar court intriuges, scheming plots, royal balls and spicy scenes. I think the side plots were interesting enough to keep my attention, but my favourite part of the book was the romance. Anna and Willaim had such a great dynamic from the start, their banter was so funny and I liked how they would flirt with eachother. They had been basically strangers at their wedding, before their arranged marriage they had only met once, but their chemistry was so good even without being in the same room.
The doesn't really use moder language, which I prefer in a period piece, but it did made it sometimes hard to read, specially at the beginning. The story also had such a broad cast of charahters, who would be sometimes refered as their names, other times as teir title, which was sometimes hard to keep track of.
I've grown to love these characters and would love to read more!
If you liked Bridgerton, specially Queen Charlotte I would recommend Heirs&Spares.
It had similar court intriuges, scheming plots, royal balls and spicy scenes. I think the side plots were interesting enough to keep my attention, but my favourite part of the book was the romance. Anna and Willaim had such a great dynamic from the start, their banter was so funny and I liked how they would flirt with eachother. They had been basically strangers at their wedding, before their arranged marriage they had only met once, but their chemistry was so good even without being in the same room.
The doesn't really use moder language, which I prefer in a period piece, but it did made it sometimes hard to read, specially at the beginning. The story also had such a broad cast of charahters, who would be sometimes refered as their names, other times as teir title, which was sometimes hard to keep track of.
I've grown to love these characters and would love to read more!
March 28, 2025
I absolutely devoured this book and couldn’t put it down. As someone who’s always wanted to explore historical romance, I’ve often struggled with slow-paced plots that were difficult to get into. But this book was a refreshing change—it was incredibly easy to dive into the story from the start. The author strikes the perfect balance, providing enough detail to vividly paint the world while leaving out unnecessary extras that would bog the narrative down.
The romance is wonderfully spicy, and I quickly found myself growing attached to both Anna and William. Their chemistry is undeniable, and I’m eagerly looking forward to continuing their journey.
However, I do wish there was more information available about the release dates for this newly revised spicy version of the book. Neither the author nor the publisher has posted much about it, which is a bit disheartening.
A big thank you to the author and publisher for providing an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
The romance is wonderfully spicy, and I quickly found myself growing attached to both Anna and William. Their chemistry is undeniable, and I’m eagerly looking forward to continuing their journey.
However, I do wish there was more information available about the release dates for this newly revised spicy version of the book. Neither the author nor the publisher has posted much about it, which is a bit disheartening.
A big thank you to the author and publisher for providing an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2025
Fans of Bridgerton and swoon-worthy enemies to lovers royal romances will love this novel!
Annelore is such a lovable FMC. Even though Victorian times & old fashioned language aren't my favorite, I couldn’t help but root for her.
William is genuinely kind and good, which is impressive for a king of this world. I enjoyed watching them fall in love, even though most of the plot was predictable. Margaux should’ve been punished, and honestly, so should Robert!
I don’t see myself ever wanting to reread this or continue the series. This type of romance isn’t really up my alley, and it only earned the third star because I loved Annelore and William so much.
Fans of Victorian era romance & political intrigue will love this novel, but personally, this just isn’t my cup of tea.
I received a complimentary copy as part of Library Thing’s Early Reviewers Program, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Annelore is such a lovable FMC. Even though Victorian times & old fashioned language aren't my favorite, I couldn’t help but root for her.
William is genuinely kind and good, which is impressive for a king of this world. I enjoyed watching them fall in love, even though most of the plot was predictable. Margaux should’ve been punished, and honestly, so should Robert!
I don’t see myself ever wanting to reread this or continue the series. This type of romance isn’t really up my alley, and it only earned the third star because I loved Annelore and William so much.
Fans of Victorian era romance & political intrigue will love this novel, but personally, this just isn’t my cup of tea.
I received a complimentary copy as part of Library Thing’s Early Reviewers Program, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 2, 2025
I dnf’ed at 119 pages.
This book is probably great for people who like historical romance or romance in general. This is a rough read for people who enjoy fantasy but will read romance for smut.
This is supposed to be the spicy version of the book. Almost half way in and nada in the realm of that.
The plot is pretty much just enemies to lovers. There’s plenty of the enemy part. It seemed they were working on getting to the lovers part. But outside of that… there wasn’t a whole lot of plot.
I also found myself struggling with the characters. Anna and William are just so mundane. The book is mostly through their POVs and after 119 pages, they’re still as fleshed out as they were on page 1.
This book also used very archaic language for the dialogue which sometimes made me do a double or triple take.
I did notice a few formatting issues as well.
This book is probably great for people who like historical romance or romance in general. This is a rough read for people who enjoy fantasy but will read romance for smut.
This is supposed to be the spicy version of the book. Almost half way in and nada in the realm of that.
The plot is pretty much just enemies to lovers. There’s plenty of the enemy part. It seemed they were working on getting to the lovers part. But outside of that… there wasn’t a whole lot of plot.
I also found myself struggling with the characters. Anna and William are just so mundane. The book is mostly through their POVs and after 119 pages, they’re still as fleshed out as they were on page 1.
This book also used very archaic language for the dialogue which sometimes made me do a double or triple take.
I did notice a few formatting issues as well.
March 31, 2025
2.5 stars, rounded up.
Heir & Spare is a book trying to do it all—be a political drama, a romance, historical fiction, erotica—but you know how the old saying goes: jack of all trades, master of none. So while [author] is really trying, on all fronts, for me, it never came together. The “spice” is present (since this is the “Betwixt the Sheets” edition) but isn’t particularly sexy. The romance is also present but doesn’t feel as though it’s the centrepiece. The political drama of it never seemed to be terribly urgent. And seeing as how the country is completely made up, it’s not succeeding as a historical fiction novel (and I won’t even get into the “old English” used in the dialogue).
Thank you to NetGalley and to Greenleaf Book Group for the ebook ARC. All opinions are mine alone.
Heir & Spare is a book trying to do it all—be a political drama, a romance, historical fiction, erotica—but you know how the old saying goes: jack of all trades, master of none. So while [author] is really trying, on all fronts, for me, it never came together. The “spice” is present (since this is the “Betwixt the Sheets” edition) but isn’t particularly sexy. The romance is also present but doesn’t feel as though it’s the centrepiece. The political drama of it never seemed to be terribly urgent. And seeing as how the country is completely made up, it’s not succeeding as a historical fiction novel (and I won’t even get into the “old English” used in the dialogue).
Thank you to NetGalley and to Greenleaf Book Group for the ebook ARC. All opinions are mine alone.
June 5, 2025
If you like historical romance books that offer a bit more of history and what it was like in the 1500's then this is right up your ally.
This book takes place in France in the year 1569.
When the king dies with no heir, his estranged brother must take a bride and the throne. Lady Annalore is chosen to be the new queen. It is her duty, and she resigns herself to it even though she loves another. This story had lying and deceit of those around them.
In the midst of everything Annalore and William fall for one another. They realize that they could have a good life together if everyone else would keep out of their lives.
I enjoyed this story and look forward to the next.
This book takes place in France in the year 1569.
When the king dies with no heir, his estranged brother must take a bride and the throne. Lady Annalore is chosen to be the new queen. It is her duty, and she resigns herself to it even though she loves another. This story had lying and deceit of those around them.
In the midst of everything Annalore and William fall for one another. They realize that they could have a good life together if everyone else would keep out of their lives.
I enjoyed this story and look forward to the next.
October 31, 2025
Heirs and Spares by Jenny Spohr is a charming tale of a woman who unexpectedly becomes queen, despite never desiring the crown. More romance than strict historical fiction, the story is full of courtly intrigue, emotional depth, and a healthy dose of drama. Watching the heroine learn to navigate royal life—with scheming courtiers, political challenges, and a romantic rival in the mix—was both engaging and delightful. A perfect read for anyone who enjoys stories about love, power, and self-discovery.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
September 1, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. However I don’t believe that I would have liked living in those times. Annelore is learning how to navigate through the courts, married to the King who she at first found abhorrent and now loves. The court has a lot of secrets and treachery. You never know who is friend or foe. The ending was really intense too. A good book that I would recommend. I received a free book from LibraryThing and the views and opinions are my own.
October 11, 2025
This was an okay book. Not bad, not good. For the first third of the book I couldn't keep the characters straight. Nothing in the book stood out to me unfortunately. There didn't feel like there was any depth to the relationships at all.
The spice level wasn't what I would consider anything special. If anything, I would think this was the normal version and that there could be a non-spice alternative.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
The spice level wasn't what I would consider anything special. If anything, I would think this was the normal version and that there could be a non-spice alternative.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
October 31, 2025
Great writing by the author!
I really liked the FMC and her relationship to her father and maid, although i would have liked more interactions between the maid and Annelore later in the book.
I liked the book, but it was pretty average. Not bad, not good but enjoyable enough.
I really liked the historical setting!
A favorite quote:
”And he knew no matter what happend between them, he would remember this moment. The moment he watched a trembling girl become a queen.” 👌🏽
I really liked the FMC and her relationship to her father and maid, although i would have liked more interactions between the maid and Annelore later in the book.
I liked the book, but it was pretty average. Not bad, not good but enjoyable enough.
I really liked the historical setting!
A favorite quote:
”And he knew no matter what happend between them, he would remember this moment. The moment he watched a trembling girl become a queen.” 👌🏽
December 8, 2025
I have not read a historical romance in a longtime, but this was a great book to read to get back into it. The writing style did take me a minute to get used to, but Jennie did an amazing job of just enough.
Annelore is strong, indepedent, and fiesty. So.... I love her :)
Prince William is tall, dark, honroable, and spicey!!
I received the open door verison, so as a lover of spice Jennie did an amazing job.
Annelore is strong, indepedent, and fiesty. So.... I love her :)
Prince William is tall, dark, honroable, and spicey!!
I received the open door verison, so as a lover of spice Jennie did an amazing job.
May 5, 2025
Historical romance, political intrigue, and spice - this one has it all! I found this book to be a lot of fun! This was only my second experience with a historical romance story and I’m definitely a fan! Also, while I have no issues with spice, I appreciate that the author has two versions of the book to accommodate for the different tastes of different people. I’d definitely recommend this book!
October 28, 2025
I have always struggled with historical fiction and this book was no different. While I enjoyed the overall themes and’s storyline, I could not get into it because of the way it’s written which is the historical portion. Author did a good job, it’s just more appreciated to those that enjoy this genre.
April 19, 2025
3.7 - this was a fairly entertaining tale - very witty, quick, and enjoyable. You see the progression of the arranged relationship between Anna and William, how they go from strangers to more, as well as fighting through certain conflicts graciously - Bryan, Margaux, and the need for an heir. The conflicts were slightly predictable in terms of storyline, but I was still engrossed to know what happened next.
May 16, 2025
Easy read romance. Gave me Bridgerton Vibes.
October 17, 2025
Characters were very engaging. Spicy but not overly graphic. I generally don’t read romance, but I truly enjoyed this book and would continue the series
November 4, 2025
Heirs & Spares by Jennie L. Spohr combines court drama with steamy scenes. A good read
I got a complimentary copy from Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd via Netgalley. This is my honest review
I got a complimentary copy from Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd via Netgalley. This is my honest review
May 21, 2025
I won this book in a StoryGraph giveaway. Thanks to Greenleaf Book Group.
I’m quite intrigued that this book is a sexy "betwixt the sheets" version of a book that’s been out since 2013. The author and publisher obviously felt it was worth waiting 12 years to add some rather detailed sex scenes. The second half of the book must have been a lot shorter in the original!
Unfortunately, even though they were editing, they missed quite a few spelling mistakes - the ones I noticed were mostly homophones, like here, here/hear,hear breech/breach, vile/vial, loath/loathe.
I found the story uneven - it was mostly a nice historical romance, but every now and then it would have a serious bit, and there was an unexpected serious medical event. It was important for the story, but quite jarring.
The main characters were likeable and the romance swung a bit wildly (oh no! a misunderstanding!) but was OK.
I did not like that a description of a woman giving birth alone immediately led to her being called a prostitute. There are other possible explanations!
The language was a bit uneven too - sometimes it was full of thees and thous, and sometimes it wasn’t. I rolled my eyes at one character being described as an exotic woman with an unidentifiable accent and almond eyes. It’s 2025, people!
I also rolled my eyes at, "…they’d not allow him to marry a tainted woman. And would he want to? What did it say of his own virility?” Er… how does her behaviour reflect his virility?
I’m being quite picky here, I know! The author is obviously very interested in the Protestant reformation that is happening in the background (I wasn't surprised to read that she has an M Div) and maybe more of the historical side and less of the romance would have made it more interesting to me, too.
For sexy historical romance that also manages to be educational AND entertaining, I prefer Courtney Milan’s books.
I’m quite intrigued that this book is a sexy "betwixt the sheets" version of a book that’s been out since 2013. The author and publisher obviously felt it was worth waiting 12 years to add some rather detailed sex scenes. The second half of the book must have been a lot shorter in the original!
Unfortunately, even though they were editing, they missed quite a few spelling mistakes - the ones I noticed were mostly homophones, like here, here/hear,hear breech/breach, vile/vial, loath/loathe.
I found the story uneven - it was mostly a nice historical romance, but every now and then it would have a serious bit, and there was an unexpected serious medical event. It was important for the story, but quite jarring.
The main characters were likeable and the romance swung a bit wildly (oh no! a misunderstanding!) but was OK.
I did not like that a description of a woman giving birth alone immediately led to her being called a prostitute. There are other possible explanations!
The language was a bit uneven too - sometimes it was full of thees and thous, and sometimes it wasn’t. I rolled my eyes at one character being described as an exotic woman with an unidentifiable accent and almond eyes. It’s 2025, people!
I also rolled my eyes at, "…they’d not allow him to marry a tainted woman. And would he want to? What did it say of his own virility?” Er… how does her behaviour reflect his virility?
I’m being quite picky here, I know! The author is obviously very interested in the Protestant reformation that is happening in the background (I wasn't surprised to read that she has an M Div) and maybe more of the historical side and less of the romance would have made it more interesting to me, too.
For sexy historical romance that also manages to be educational AND entertaining, I prefer Courtney Milan’s books.
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