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Royal Romance #1
A Royal Romance
Georgina, Princess of Wales, has always known her destiny, but she never expected duty to call so soon. When her father dies suddenly, she is called back from her Royal Navy post to assume the crown. While the people acclaim their new Queen, Great Britain’s first openly gay monarch, all George feels is the isolation of her station.
Beatrice Elliot’s staunch anti-monarchist views have always been a point of gentle contention with her working class, royalty-loving parents. When Bea—director of a hospice charity—must spend six months working with Queen Georgina, her charity’s new patron, sparks fly and passion blooms. But is love enough to bridge the gap between Bethnal Green and Buckingham Palace?
Beatrice Elliot’s staunch anti-monarchist views have always been a point of gentle contention with her working class, royalty-loving parents. When Bea—director of a hospice charity—must spend six months working with Queen Georgina, her charity’s new patron, sparks fly and passion blooms. But is love enough to bridge the gap between Bethnal Green and Buckingham Palace?
264 pages, Paperback
First published May 5, 2015
43 people are currently reading
948 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Frame
30 books447 followersJenny Frame is from the small town of Motherwell in Scotland, where she lives with her partner, Lou, and their well loved and very spoiled dog. She has a diverse range of qualifications, including a BA in public management and a diploma in acting and performance. Nowadays, she likes to put her creative energies into writing rather than treading the boards. When not writing or reading, Jenny loves cheering on her local football team, which is not always an easy task!
Jenny Frame is the Royal Academy of Bards 2013 Hall of Fame Author.
Jenny Frame is the Royal Academy of Bards 2013 Hall of Fame Author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
March 19, 2017
I've always been a fan or royalty type romances. Maybe it is because in the USA we don't have any royals, that it's a little more fascinating to someone like me. This is Frame's first book, and you can tell it is a debut book. I have read one of her later books and it was better written. There is some pacing issues, parts of the story get bogged down in places. Also too many POV changes. We were in peoples heads that just were not really needed for the story-line. The book ended up being longer than it was needed. Editing out about 50 pages here and there, would have really helped.
The characters could be a little wooden at times, and I didn't feel like I got to know them below the surface. However, I did think the romance was sweet. This book is a pretty light, fluffy romance. The only small parts that weren't, were with an evil villain type character. I don't think he was really needed and could have easily been edited out.
I think people looking for a sweet, slightly futuristic, fairy tale, will enjoy this. If you are looking for a really well written book, than this would be a pass.
The characters could be a little wooden at times, and I didn't feel like I got to know them below the surface. However, I did think the romance was sweet. This book is a pretty light, fluffy romance. The only small parts that weren't, were with an evil villain type character. I don't think he was really needed and could have easily been edited out.
I think people looking for a sweet, slightly futuristic, fairy tale, will enjoy this. If you are looking for a really well written book, than this would be a pass.
April 3, 2019
I can't recommend this one. There's an interesting premise here, but that's about all. The characters are two dimensional and the writing is stilted and trite. BSB should really try to help their authors (especially their new authors) with plot development, dialogue, and pacing.
I almost gave up on this one in the prologue, which consists almost entirely of overblown descriptions of a royal event that could have been described in a few sentences. This happens throughout the book, as there are many passages that feature clunky (and often lengthy) pieces of exposition.
The main plot features the first woman (Georgina) with a younger brother to ascend to the throne, and she also happens to be a lesbian. She falls for a commoner (Beatrice) and this forms the basis of the main plot, because even though the book is set decades in the future, this would somehow be an issue even though in the present we have an heir to the throne who is married to a commoner. There are also repeated references to George having lived a completely sheltered life and never going to clubs or movies, even though once again we know the current day royals go to football games, parties and clubs, just like... you know... people. This book would have made more sense if it was set 50 years in the past.
It also features the trope where a character is a virgin (in this case with zero experience) who becomes the world's greatest lover right off the bat, because... realism.
There's also a ridiculous subplot involving George's cousin Julian, who has less substance than a mustache twirling villain from a silent movie, and is about as adept. The rationale behind this plotline is beyond ludicrous. I'm also not sure why Princess Eleanor was included in the book, everyone sees through the character, so she literally serves no purpose.
Then at the end we're treated to more endless exposition in the form of tedious descriptions of royal events, because you always want to bore your reader to death instead of leaving them wanting more.
Given some good editoral guidance, Ms Frame might have had something here, but it misses on pretty much every level.
I almost gave up on this one in the prologue, which consists almost entirely of overblown descriptions of a royal event that could have been described in a few sentences. This happens throughout the book, as there are many passages that feature clunky (and often lengthy) pieces of exposition.
The main plot features the first woman (Georgina) with a younger brother to ascend to the throne, and she also happens to be a lesbian. She falls for a commoner (Beatrice) and this forms the basis of the main plot, because even though the book is set decades in the future, this would somehow be an issue even though in the present we have an heir to the throne who is married to a commoner. There are also repeated references to George having lived a completely sheltered life and never going to clubs or movies, even though once again we know the current day royals go to football games, parties and clubs, just like... you know... people. This book would have made more sense if it was set 50 years in the past.
It also features the trope where a character is a virgin (in this case with zero experience) who becomes the world's greatest lover right off the bat, because... realism.
There's also a ridiculous subplot involving George's cousin Julian, who has less substance than a mustache twirling villain from a silent movie, and is about as adept. The rationale behind this plotline is beyond ludicrous. I'm also not sure why Princess Eleanor was included in the book, everyone sees through the character, so she literally serves no purpose.
Then at the end we're treated to more endless exposition in the form of tedious descriptions of royal events, because you always want to bore your reader to death instead of leaving them wanting more.
Given some good editoral guidance, Ms Frame might have had something here, but it misses on pretty much every level.
May 6, 2015
Nice enough book. I have read a number of this author's fanfic stories and honestly found them better than this book.
The premise is an almost standard romantic troupe and obviously leads up to HEA, but then continues for a further 40-50 pages to add an ending that seemed perfunctory.
Also raised my "ick" factor with the whole synth flesh thing.
The premise is an almost standard romantic troupe and obviously leads up to HEA, but then continues for a further 40-50 pages to add an ending that seemed perfunctory.
Also raised my "ick" factor with the whole synth flesh thing.
September 20, 2022
I bounced out of this reeeeaaaly early. The exposition is stilted and that's not helped by having a narrator who can't seem to break her monotone. There's also a casual lack of awareness that characterized the tone that had me laughing when I really should not have been (like at a death scene).
The epitome of the clueless tone came when Georgina was pondering an election where the Labour candidate was a woman (named Boadicea so at least that was awesome. I'd totally vote for a Boadicea). But Georgina's also all "hm, both heads of government would be women. Interesting." And I'm all, um, like with Margaret Thatcher and Queen Elizabeth fifty years ago? or Theresa May? And do I read Wikipedia right and Liz Truss even had a couple of days with a queen? Sorry, I got bogged down in my Wikipedia jaunt. My point is that even though this is set decades in the future, the narrative tone acts like lgbt and feminist things are stuck decades in the past.
Which is kind of funny, but also broke my ability to take it seriously. I think a good editor would have done wonders for this story if they could have tightened up the exposition and maybe checked that tone a bit. For its current state, I'm giving it one star. I mean, it made me laugh, but not for any of the right reasons.
The epitome of the clueless tone came when Georgina was pondering an election where the Labour candidate was a woman (named Boadicea so at least that was awesome. I'd totally vote for a Boadicea). But Georgina's also all "hm, both heads of government would be women. Interesting." And I'm all, um, like with Margaret Thatcher and Queen Elizabeth fifty years ago? or Theresa May? And do I read Wikipedia right and Liz Truss even had a couple of days with a queen? Sorry, I got bogged down in my Wikipedia jaunt. My point is that even though this is set decades in the future, the narrative tone acts like lgbt and feminist things are stuck decades in the past.
Which is kind of funny, but also broke my ability to take it seriously. I think a good editor would have done wonders for this story if they could have tightened up the exposition and maybe checked that tone a bit. For its current state, I'm giving it one star. I mean, it made me laugh, but not for any of the right reasons.
March 8, 2025
Started believing this would be a mish-mash of silliness but it was so much more than that, touching on differing arguments and life-styles, so I ended up buying into this big time. Emotional roller coaster: Love it! The sort of book that makes Bold Strokes Books so good & why I pay their eye-watering prices...
Love it second & third time round as well - this is a keeper! :)
Love it second & third time round as well - this is a keeper! :)
April 23, 2017
Britain has its first Lesbian Queen and they all love her except one particular republican that has been roped into taking the Queen on a tour of a charity over the next six months. Bea has always been against the monarchy and thinks it’s time for Britain to enter a new century and become a Republic. The new Queen Georgina (George for sort) is a traditionalist and even though she is the first gay monarch, she never expected to have feelings for the one person who believes her job is no longer needed in Great Britain. This is definitely a modern day fairytale.
I think for a debut novel that “A Royal Romance” was written extremely well and had great character development throughout the novel. The main protagonists, Bea and George are the kind of characters that make a good love story great. Queen George embraces the fact that she is trapped in a life that was chosen for her and she works hard to make sure she is the best Queen she can possibly be for the nation. George ticks all of my fantasy boxes. She’s a sexy butch but she’s also caring, intelligent, forthright and loving… especially when it comes to Bea.
I really enjoyed all secondary characters but the ones that stood out from the rest were Cammy and The Dowager Queen. There were moments that they were a part of that either melted my heart or gave me a chuckle. I’m hoping to see more of these characters in the next book in the series. Cammy speaking in Scottish colloquialisms made for fun reading for this Scottish ‘Lassie’. There were moments that the wording was so cheesy that it was quite funny but I reckon in all good fairytales there is normally an element of cheese…
The love scenes were inspired, especially because the novel is set in the future and they sound amazing. The detail Jenny Frame goes into with the sex is fantastic and I found by the end of the book I was hoping she would patent the “Intelliflesh Design” so I could buy one. Another element that I enjoy in novels is when one protagonist is inexperienced in sex and/or a virgin, this was definitely the case in the book and it provides quite a sexy component.
I would love to see a story written about the elusive Prime Minster, Bo. I reckon there is a story behind her mysterious private life.
All in all, it was a lovely modern day fairytale that added a whole heap of sexy!
4.5 Stars
I think for a debut novel that “A Royal Romance” was written extremely well and had great character development throughout the novel. The main protagonists, Bea and George are the kind of characters that make a good love story great. Queen George embraces the fact that she is trapped in a life that was chosen for her and she works hard to make sure she is the best Queen she can possibly be for the nation. George ticks all of my fantasy boxes. She’s a sexy butch but she’s also caring, intelligent, forthright and loving… especially when it comes to Bea.
I really enjoyed all secondary characters but the ones that stood out from the rest were Cammy and The Dowager Queen. There were moments that they were a part of that either melted my heart or gave me a chuckle. I’m hoping to see more of these characters in the next book in the series. Cammy speaking in Scottish colloquialisms made for fun reading for this Scottish ‘Lassie’. There were moments that the wording was so cheesy that it was quite funny but I reckon in all good fairytales there is normally an element of cheese…
The love scenes were inspired, especially because the novel is set in the future and they sound amazing. The detail Jenny Frame goes into with the sex is fantastic and I found by the end of the book I was hoping she would patent the “Intelliflesh Design” so I could buy one. Another element that I enjoy in novels is when one protagonist is inexperienced in sex and/or a virgin, this was definitely the case in the book and it provides quite a sexy component.
I would love to see a story written about the elusive Prime Minster, Bo. I reckon there is a story behind her mysterious private life.
All in all, it was a lovely modern day fairytale that added a whole heap of sexy!
4.5 Stars
January 4, 2016
I was ready to give this book 5 stars because I loved it so much, and then I hit the part where they both accepted that they love each other. For me, that's where the pacing got weird, even though I had really appreciated the pacing and how the tension we managed up to that point. I will say that there's zero ambiguity at the end about their HEA, and I hope there's a follow up short story about a royal baby.
One thing I particularly liked was how technology was advanced enough for it to believably be a few decades in the future, vs far fetched technological advances. That made the world more believable to me.
One thing I particularly liked was how technology was advanced enough for it to believably be a few decades in the future, vs far fetched technological advances. That made the world more believable to me.
October 7, 2020
3.5 stars. This is one of those series that I still had on my list and I noticed a new book in the series is announced, so I’ll just slowly do some catching up here. It’s Frame’s debut book and it has some bumps, but in general I found this book very enjoyable and look forward to reading the other books in the series.
After the King of England dies, his daughter George, heir of the throne, becomes the new Queen. This is where the book starts. During one of her charity projects she meets Bea and there is an immediate connection. However, as a republican, Bea despises the monarchy so this connection sparks, but mainly with hostility. They have to work together and slowly a friendship evolves and Bea realizes that she might have to change her views of the monarchy. I liked both Bea and George and was pleasantly surprised by the portrayal of a butch queen. Often, queens and princesses are associated with gowns and tiara’s but not George, George is very handsome in her various (navy) costumes and I liked this variant on royalty. I also liked the insights on the isolation and loneliness of George (royal privileges come at a cost) and this tugged on my heartstrings. The enemy to lovers arc was well done although the characters were somewhat stilted in the beginning due to a lot of narration. This improved later in the book.
As I said there were some bumps, I sometimes had trouble keeping track of which POV I was in and there was a villain storyline that was completely over the top (and unbelievable) and not needed for the story. That said, I enjoyed this book better than I expected and I’m curious to see what the other books in this series will bring.
After the King of England dies, his daughter George, heir of the throne, becomes the new Queen. This is where the book starts. During one of her charity projects she meets Bea and there is an immediate connection. However, as a republican, Bea despises the monarchy so this connection sparks, but mainly with hostility. They have to work together and slowly a friendship evolves and Bea realizes that she might have to change her views of the monarchy. I liked both Bea and George and was pleasantly surprised by the portrayal of a butch queen. Often, queens and princesses are associated with gowns and tiara’s but not George, George is very handsome in her various (navy) costumes and I liked this variant on royalty. I also liked the insights on the isolation and loneliness of George (royal privileges come at a cost) and this tugged on my heartstrings. The enemy to lovers arc was well done although the characters were somewhat stilted in the beginning due to a lot of narration. This improved later in the book.
As I said there were some bumps, I sometimes had trouble keeping track of which POV I was in and there was a villain storyline that was completely over the top (and unbelievable) and not needed for the story. That said, I enjoyed this book better than I expected and I’m curious to see what the other books in this series will bring.
June 4, 2016
ARC
I’ve been mulling over what to write about this book for a few days, ever since starting it really, and most certainly after stopping about half way through (I did skip through the second half to see where it went).
I found the book problematic on many levels. The writing was awkward, the characters never came alive and had very cliched roles to fulfil, the plot tried to take on a lot. So what could have been a simple, nice romance novel turned out to be something of a mess.
I cannot stress enough how much I wanted to like this book. I still remember the little girl I was who just was fascinated with everything European royalty, so the idea of books like these makes me squee inside. An openly lesbian Queen of England? Bring it on!
So the new young, handsome Queen of England falls in love with a woman with a working class background who is a staunch republican. The book is set slightly in the future, 2040s, which to me makes this somewhat unbelievable as such a great source of conflict on either side, or rather as the main conflict that drives the story. But I could have suspended disbelief if not for the writing. I don’t know what to make of it and, if I’m being honest, can’t quite believe it was published as it is. I found it problematic on several levels. One of them was dialog, it was clunky, and often I felt a gap between the person that was addressed and the perceived audience. One example: Georgina says to Bea: “I sail up a lot at Balmoral, our Scottish summer residence.” Now, Bea, raised by a mother who is a fan of the royal family and everything that surrounds it, certainly knows what Balmoral is. Then who is addressed here? Who is the perceived audience that requires such awkward info dumps? There are similar scenes in regard to Trooping the Colour, etc. If it is assumed that the audience requires explanations, are there not more skilful and less obvious ways than to include this information in dialog?
Another such dialog is the following, when Georgina addresses her private secretary (I think): “Tell me, Sir Michael. Who is the bookies’ favourite to be meeting with me? The charismatic Labour leader, Boadicea Dixon, or the very sensible, but dull, Conservative leader, Andrew Smith?” Sir Michael knows who they are, so he wouldn’t need the introduction of the characters. I generally felt that the inclusion of the election wasn’t necessary. It didn’t add anything to the story.
For a book with such a specific time and place, the language, once more for a BSB book, certainly didn’t make me feel the place. The language, both in formal and informal settings, is quite the same manner of generic for all characters. Except for Cammy, who is not allowed to utter a single sentence without a signifier that she is Scottish. This is such a loss, as it would have added such layers to the characters and could have underlined the differences between Bea’s and Georgina’s worlds in such a simple and convincing manner. I would love to know if this generic language comes about by accident or design. It is not the first time I have encountered it in a BSB book, by UK writers, no less, yet whenever else I pick up books by UK authors that are set in the UK, the language always makes it clear where the book takes place.
There’s other little things, like using inner monologue (a lot) to show what the characters are feeling that did not endear the writing to me.
Many of the info dumps on royalty were due to the fact that while a fictitious royal family, its roots were real. So Georgina used many opportunities to lecture on history, which added unnecessary lengths to the book without adding anything to the story.
The plot was very predictable, as were all the conflicts that arose. Why the British Monarchy 101 course was included here, I don’t know.
Georgina herself posed a bit of a problem, too, for me. In the end, I don’t know why she was Georgina and not George. She’s called George by her family, man by her best friend, certainly enjoys her intelliflesh. I at times wondered why bothering making her a queen at all. Yet her masculinity didn’t seem to be a source of conflict for anyone. Odd, the whole thing. A short sentence at the beginning in regard to reproductive technologies also laid to rest all discussion in regard to heirs. Which could have really been interesting.
So, yeah. Not my cup of tea at all.
I’ve been mulling over what to write about this book for a few days, ever since starting it really, and most certainly after stopping about half way through (I did skip through the second half to see where it went).
I found the book problematic on many levels. The writing was awkward, the characters never came alive and had very cliched roles to fulfil, the plot tried to take on a lot. So what could have been a simple, nice romance novel turned out to be something of a mess.
I cannot stress enough how much I wanted to like this book. I still remember the little girl I was who just was fascinated with everything European royalty, so the idea of books like these makes me squee inside. An openly lesbian Queen of England? Bring it on!
So the new young, handsome Queen of England falls in love with a woman with a working class background who is a staunch republican. The book is set slightly in the future, 2040s, which to me makes this somewhat unbelievable as such a great source of conflict on either side, or rather as the main conflict that drives the story. But I could have suspended disbelief if not for the writing. I don’t know what to make of it and, if I’m being honest, can’t quite believe it was published as it is. I found it problematic on several levels. One of them was dialog, it was clunky, and often I felt a gap between the person that was addressed and the perceived audience. One example: Georgina says to Bea: “I sail up a lot at Balmoral, our Scottish summer residence.” Now, Bea, raised by a mother who is a fan of the royal family and everything that surrounds it, certainly knows what Balmoral is. Then who is addressed here? Who is the perceived audience that requires such awkward info dumps? There are similar scenes in regard to Trooping the Colour, etc. If it is assumed that the audience requires explanations, are there not more skilful and less obvious ways than to include this information in dialog?
Another such dialog is the following, when Georgina addresses her private secretary (I think): “Tell me, Sir Michael. Who is the bookies’ favourite to be meeting with me? The charismatic Labour leader, Boadicea Dixon, or the very sensible, but dull, Conservative leader, Andrew Smith?” Sir Michael knows who they are, so he wouldn’t need the introduction of the characters. I generally felt that the inclusion of the election wasn’t necessary. It didn’t add anything to the story.
For a book with such a specific time and place, the language, once more for a BSB book, certainly didn’t make me feel the place. The language, both in formal and informal settings, is quite the same manner of generic for all characters. Except for Cammy, who is not allowed to utter a single sentence without a signifier that she is Scottish. This is such a loss, as it would have added such layers to the characters and could have underlined the differences between Bea’s and Georgina’s worlds in such a simple and convincing manner. I would love to know if this generic language comes about by accident or design. It is not the first time I have encountered it in a BSB book, by UK writers, no less, yet whenever else I pick up books by UK authors that are set in the UK, the language always makes it clear where the book takes place.
There’s other little things, like using inner monologue (a lot) to show what the characters are feeling that did not endear the writing to me.
Many of the info dumps on royalty were due to the fact that while a fictitious royal family, its roots were real. So Georgina used many opportunities to lecture on history, which added unnecessary lengths to the book without adding anything to the story.
The plot was very predictable, as were all the conflicts that arose. Why the British Monarchy 101 course was included here, I don’t know.
Georgina herself posed a bit of a problem, too, for me. In the end, I don’t know why she was Georgina and not George. She’s called George by her family, man by her best friend, certainly enjoys her intelliflesh. I at times wondered why bothering making her a queen at all. Yet her masculinity didn’t seem to be a source of conflict for anyone. Odd, the whole thing. A short sentence at the beginning in regard to reproductive technologies also laid to rest all discussion in regard to heirs. Which could have really been interesting.
So, yeah. Not my cup of tea at all.
August 8, 2022
3.5 rounded up
Indeed this was a fairytale romance with a handsome prince, a beautiful maiden and an evil villain. Also a very outspoken grandmother and various side characters who supported the MCs. All with a sapphic twist. It was a fun story for readers who enjoy royalty stories. It was set 20 years in the future and a few small gizmos added to the enjoyment.
Indeed this was a fairytale romance with a handsome prince, a beautiful maiden and an evil villain. Also a very outspoken grandmother and various side characters who supported the MCs. All with a sapphic twist. It was a fun story for readers who enjoy royalty stories. It was set 20 years in the future and a few small gizmos added to the enjoyment.
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October 2, 2021
Okay this was just delightful in every single way (minus the moderately ridiculous climax).
All my favorite tropes in one book: enemies to lovers, royal romance, and forbidden love with a wonderful sapphic romance between two lonely people just looking for love—one never expecting to find it, one hoping against all hope to have it.
Yes, the writing was a touch clunky here and there, but dammit I just loved it.
All my favorite tropes in one book: enemies to lovers, royal romance, and forbidden love with a wonderful sapphic romance between two lonely people just looking for love—one never expecting to find it, one hoping against all hope to have it.
Yes, the writing was a touch clunky here and there, but dammit I just loved it.
April 14, 2017
4 Stars for the audio book
I'd never thought I'd say this, but I enjoyed the audio book more than the eBook. Maybe the British accents by the narrator, Lesley Parkin added to the enjoyment of the book? I really enjoyed her narration, however I can't attest to the authenticity, me being an American. I also enjoyed her narration of Cari Hunter's Snowbound.
I'd never thought I'd say this, but I enjoyed the audio book more than the eBook. Maybe the British accents by the narrator, Lesley Parkin added to the enjoyment of the book? I really enjoyed her narration, however I can't attest to the authenticity, me being an American. I also enjoyed her narration of Cari Hunter's Snowbound.
September 14, 2015
The romance story was sweet but uneven and the erotica was... synth flesh and...and just...not particularly sweet nor fitting to the tone of the story.
August 20, 2015
The writing style, royal family, hopeless romance, polite prince - arrogant & opposite views lady from middle class turned lover, conspiracy, shooting, erotic love scenes, exaggerated family and loyal scenes, little humour... oh my this is typical UK overrated chick lit that stuffs in every possible element in it!!!! Usually, I wouldn't have liked it but, my current mood allowed me to read it all and enjoy it to some extent. Since the first time writer from UK and it did make me laugh here and there I'm going with 3.5/5.
This is perfect for you if you are into classic brit and cinderella stories.
This is perfect for you if you are into classic brit and cinderella stories.
July 17, 2020
Badly written, badly edited, badly structured. What plot there was was complete nonsense. The antagonists were toothless and also pointless. The heroines never resolved their own problems. Most of the book was exposition, telling me how likeable Georgie is and why she and Bea are good together.
By the midway point, I was hate reading, and actively rooting for the failure of both the central romance and the monarchy.
The central conflict presented in the blurb never makes a real appearance. Bea's anti-monarchist sentiments are mainly emotional and disappear once she discovers that Georgie is nice. Georgie and every other character gets to lecture Bea on how haaaaard the royals work and how fiscally responsible they are, etc., etc.
On a minor note, I was under the impression the book was a cotemporary-- and vast swathes of it read that way! But it technically takes place in the near future, with laughable future technology, including voice activated devices (like the diary Georgie narrates her backstory to) and Intelliflesh, the synthetic flesh that resembles the real thing (used in a strap-on scene).
Do yourself a favor and skip this one.
By the midway point, I was hate reading, and actively rooting for the failure of both the central romance and the monarchy.
The central conflict presented in the blurb never makes a real appearance. Bea's anti-monarchist sentiments are mainly emotional and disappear once she discovers that Georgie is nice. Georgie and every other character gets to lecture Bea on how haaaaard the royals work and how fiscally responsible they are, etc., etc.
On a minor note, I was under the impression the book was a cotemporary-- and vast swathes of it read that way! But it technically takes place in the near future, with laughable future technology, including voice activated devices (like the diary Georgie narrates her backstory to) and Intelliflesh, the synthetic flesh that resembles the real thing (used in a strap-on scene).
Do yourself a favor and skip this one.
July 9, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed the romance storyline. Apparently I'm a complete sucker for ordinary girl meets her Princess Charming stories. And Georgina was definitely charming! I loved her earnest, thoughtful, responsible character, she was lovely. Falling for the republican was well written and, republican that I am, I did enjoy the descriptions of all the pageantry and public appearances.
This would have probably got a 5 star rating from me, were it not for the interactive strap-on that invaded the sex scenes. My personal take on this is that if I'm reading lesbian romance, the one thing it should not be about is (faux) penis-in-vagina sex. If Georgina had identified as trans, it would have been awesome, but she didn't and I found it really off-putting.
The writing, and the romance, though, were lovely.
This would have probably got a 5 star rating from me, were it not for the interactive strap-on that invaded the sex scenes. My personal take on this is that if I'm reading lesbian romance, the one thing it should not be about is (faux) penis-in-vagina sex. If Georgina had identified as trans, it would have been awesome, but she didn't and I found it really off-putting.
The writing, and the romance, though, were lovely.
February 11, 2021
I listened to the audiobook version of this book. I struggle with accents, and when listening to a book over my speakers in my car in traffic it is sometimes difficult. A few points during this book I missed a couple of words, or perhaps a bit of humor due to it being the audiobook version. I loved the book though, and will probably listen to again. This is only the second book I have finished by the author, but both have been really good.
April 26, 2020
I believe this is the first novel by Jenny but it was not the first one I've read by her. I don't remember if the writing has improved but I liked both stories just about the same.
Georgie and Bea’s story is pretty much a fairy tale as stated in the book, I found myself being invested in their romance.
I did feel that the Bea’s reservations regarding being with Georgie was slightly repetitive but once she got over her fears, the book got more interesting again.
Not bad for a debut novel.
Review also posted here: https://wp.me/p4Pp9O-Nh
Georgie and Bea’s story is pretty much a fairy tale as stated in the book, I found myself being invested in their romance.
I did feel that the Bea’s reservations regarding being with Georgie was slightly repetitive but once she got over her fears, the book got more interesting again.
Not bad for a debut novel.
Review also posted here: https://wp.me/p4Pp9O-Nh
April 29, 2018
3.5 stars.
I didn’t realize until I read a few of Nell Stark’s books a few months ago, but apparently I’m a sucker for a princess gets the girl story. This was pretty decent, though it did border on cheesy a time or two. Looking forward to reading more by Frame in the future.
I didn’t realize until I read a few of Nell Stark’s books a few months ago, but apparently I’m a sucker for a princess gets the girl story. This was pretty decent, though it did border on cheesy a time or two. Looking forward to reading more by Frame in the future.
May 6, 2015
I have been looking forward to this book.
George and Bea are both believable characters and the timeframe of the 2040's was easy to slide into. There are little things here and there that remind you it is not a book based in today's world. I enjoyed the slow build up. I was also happy to see a book that didn't have a lot of bed-hopping in it. Their interactions were fun and fresh. I was able to feel each one's sadness during loss and each one's excitement at the prospect of love.
The story addresses something we are all guilty of...prejudging others before taking the time to get to know them. It also has a splash of "ignorance about my own government" thrown in there. The grammar and spelling were excellent as far as I can tell, but take that with a grain of salt considering there were a couple terms I was unfamiliar with and had to look up. I am not from the UK, so I am quite unknowledgeable when it comes to the Royal Family world. My knowledge is elementary at best, and strictly achieved from reading. Although I had a huge crush on Princess Diana, LOL.
Anyway, I got exactly what I was looking for. A friendship that turns into love, a few obstacles, some self-questioning, friends or family that present a bit of trepidation, the supportive friend or two, a bit of hurt/comfort, and some great sex.
Out of necessity, not by choice I was forced to put the book down and return a day later to finish. During that time, I was thinking about what was to come. You have obviously done something correctly when a reader wishes they were reading your book instead of doing something else.
The one thing I didn't care for was the resolution of Julian's character. Unless, there is a sequel that would address that, then I will withdraw my contention in the matter. (That was my backward way of saying, sequel please!)
Buy it! Read it!
George and Bea are both believable characters and the timeframe of the 2040's was easy to slide into. There are little things here and there that remind you it is not a book based in today's world. I enjoyed the slow build up. I was also happy to see a book that didn't have a lot of bed-hopping in it. Their interactions were fun and fresh. I was able to feel each one's sadness during loss and each one's excitement at the prospect of love.
The story addresses something we are all guilty of...prejudging others before taking the time to get to know them. It also has a splash of "ignorance about my own government" thrown in there. The grammar and spelling were excellent as far as I can tell, but take that with a grain of salt considering there were a couple terms I was unfamiliar with and had to look up. I am not from the UK, so I am quite unknowledgeable when it comes to the Royal Family world. My knowledge is elementary at best, and strictly achieved from reading. Although I had a huge crush on Princess Diana, LOL.
Anyway, I got exactly what I was looking for. A friendship that turns into love, a few obstacles, some self-questioning, friends or family that present a bit of trepidation, the supportive friend or two, a bit of hurt/comfort, and some great sex.
Out of necessity, not by choice I was forced to put the book down and return a day later to finish. During that time, I was thinking about what was to come. You have obviously done something correctly when a reader wishes they were reading your book instead of doing something else.
The one thing I didn't care for was the resolution of Julian's character. Unless, there is a sequel that would address that, then I will withdraw my contention in the matter. (That was my backward way of saying, sequel please!)
Buy it! Read it!
March 8, 2017
It normally doesn't take me a long time to read a book that's this short and I think it may indicate how I feel about this book. I can't make heads or tails of my feelings. I liked this book but I also did not like this book. Let me clarify by saying that romance is outside of my reading comfort zone so there were so sections that I skipped. Nonetheless, I was intrigued by the summary (which I why I requested it) and the plot. The plot for the most part is adequate but I think the conflict aspect was resolved way too easily and quickly. This concern ties in to the pacing of the book. While it was generally well paced there were a few times when I almost gave up. The characters, though likable, just did not connect with me even though I found them interesting. What feels like it should be an easy read ends up dragging a little book and that detracted from the reading experience. I didn't hate it but I'm not sure I would recommend it.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for approving my request for a free digital copy in exchange for a honest review.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for approving my request for a free digital copy in exchange for a honest review.
December 20, 2020
This is one of the better royal romance novels. Its sweet and a true fairytale to women out there waiting for their own dashing Queen to sweep them off their feet. This book made me fall in love with both Georgie and Bea - both so different yet equally likeable characters.
The romance was also very well paced. Not rushed and not boring.
And I absolutely adored the very pleasant royal family and all its members - so loving, no airs. Save for one annoying minor royal character
A bit of drama towards the last part of the book - which was wasn't very necessary actually. But I'm glad the story didn't just end abruptly and we could see a bit more of Georgie and Bea after they got together.
A very good read. And I hope Jenny Frame's other royal romance books are just as good.
The romance was also very well paced. Not rushed and not boring.
And I absolutely adored the very pleasant royal family and all its members - so loving, no airs. Save for one annoying minor royal character
A bit of drama towards the last part of the book - which was wasn't very necessary actually. But I'm glad the story didn't just end abruptly and we could see a bit more of Georgie and Bea after they got together.
A very good read. And I hope Jenny Frame's other royal romance books are just as good.
June 7, 2021
I love the Royal Romance series. Book one A Royal Romance was my first Jenny Frame read. I was hooked afterwards.
The tale of Queen Georgie and her Consort Bea is one of my favorites! I wish we lived in a time when their story was a work of fact and not fiction. I love seeing more of their story as well as the new romances in Royal Rebel and Royal Court. I’m looking forward to the continuation of their tale and seeing more of their family in Royal Family coming out 2021.
The tale of Queen Georgie and her Consort Bea is one of my favorites! I wish we lived in a time when their story was a work of fact and not fiction. I love seeing more of their story as well as the new romances in Royal Rebel and Royal Court. I’m looking forward to the continuation of their tale and seeing more of their family in Royal Family coming out 2021.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2015
A fascinating fairy tale. And besides I love royal romances.
July 2, 2021
It was a perfect read. So detailed and the pace was just right. I got the feels, the emotions, the scares but most especially the joy of enjoying a happy ending. I love those.
The characters are really well written. And the development was just wonderfully built.
The characters are really well written. And the development was just wonderfully built.
October 3, 2016
Sweet story which made up for the lack of editing- too much telling and not enough showing.
June 18, 2018
Actually had the audiobook, but love this story, such a mix of sweet trials and tribulations romance and scorching hot sex scenes.
July 20, 2025
4.5 stars. This was SO freakin’ romantic! I adored it. I’m really in a Jenny Frame mood and I just can’t get enough of her books. They’re always so addictive and I swoon so hard over her butch characters. No one writes butch characters like she does. Queen George is so kind and loving and then you have Bea who is prickly and doesn’t like the monarchy. I loved the chemistry between them and the character development was so good. I enjoyed this immensely and the sex scenes were definitely unique and fun. I can’t wait to continue on with this series because this was fabulous.
December 31, 2020
Nice little fairytale
This book reminded me a lot of The Crown. I'm kind of glad I started watching that show, before reading A Royal Romance, because I already had some background information on the Monarchy.
Great lesbian romance and a wonderful happily ever after.
This book reminded me a lot of The Crown. I'm kind of glad I started watching that show, before reading A Royal Romance, because I already had some background information on the Monarchy.
Great lesbian romance and a wonderful happily ever after.
July 9, 2015
Set in 2053, following a beautiful opening prologue from 2044, this story presents a wondrous picture of the importance of English royalty throughout and currently within their kingdom. The astounding counterbalance added by a vibrant young woman who as a *republican*, which generally means she is completely in opposition to all that monarchy folderol, adds a formidable and dynamic antithesis. I was enthralled and most certainly recommend this book. Resplendent!
Georgina Mary Edwina Louis is crowned queen decades before she expected this to happen. This presents the country with two firsts... an openly lesbian sovereign and a woman ascending the throne ahead of her younger brother. However, her extraordinary sense of responsibility and training from a very young age makes the transition a tad easier for the country and herself. Then the queen is given a somewhat serendipitous encounter with the regional manager of the Timmy hospice which is the queen's main charity. This puts Georgina toe-to-toe with a woman who has openly professed her opposition to any sort of monarchy at all. Oh my goodness! This tantalizing and delicious one-on-one confrontation commands and supports the balance of this book. Magnificent!
Beatrice Elliot is an amazing powerhouse of a woman. She has chosen to focus her energy and talents within a small hospice organization, which just happens to become the queen's chosen charity. Bea is vocally livid and adamant that she will not baby-sit this or any royal. Nonetheless Bea eventually accepts the singular opportunity this connection is for her organization and thereby opens a startling life-altering experience she couldn't possibly have imagined given her deeply felt passions. Bea's emotional energy is remarkably intense and strikingly distinct to the noticeably controlled expressions by Georgie... the nickname Bea gives to the queen which is used only in private moments. Bea's evolution and growth is a most treasured experience for me. I could easily relate to Bea's position in society yet did secretly hope she would learn to appreciate the queen as they worked together. Endearing!
So many small and wondrous events happen while Georgie and Bea work together and grow closer to one another. This is by far the most enchanting book I have read to date. It certainly has been helpful that I am an anglophile, but I am convinced one doesn't need to be that or anything close to that to still thoroughly enjoy this book. Nevertheless the astonishing amount of history and detail about Great Britain's monarchy simply opened my heart more than I could have imagined and expanded my mind tenfold. I enthusiastically suggest you not bypass this pearl. Spectacular!
NOTE: This book was provided by Bold Strokes Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Georgina Mary Edwina Louis is crowned queen decades before she expected this to happen. This presents the country with two firsts... an openly lesbian sovereign and a woman ascending the throne ahead of her younger brother. However, her extraordinary sense of responsibility and training from a very young age makes the transition a tad easier for the country and herself. Then the queen is given a somewhat serendipitous encounter with the regional manager of the Timmy hospice which is the queen's main charity. This puts Georgina toe-to-toe with a woman who has openly professed her opposition to any sort of monarchy at all. Oh my goodness! This tantalizing and delicious one-on-one confrontation commands and supports the balance of this book. Magnificent!
Beatrice Elliot is an amazing powerhouse of a woman. She has chosen to focus her energy and talents within a small hospice organization, which just happens to become the queen's chosen charity. Bea is vocally livid and adamant that she will not baby-sit this or any royal. Nonetheless Bea eventually accepts the singular opportunity this connection is for her organization and thereby opens a startling life-altering experience she couldn't possibly have imagined given her deeply felt passions. Bea's emotional energy is remarkably intense and strikingly distinct to the noticeably controlled expressions by Georgie... the nickname Bea gives to the queen which is used only in private moments. Bea's evolution and growth is a most treasured experience for me. I could easily relate to Bea's position in society yet did secretly hope she would learn to appreciate the queen as they worked together. Endearing!
So many small and wondrous events happen while Georgie and Bea work together and grow closer to one another. This is by far the most enchanting book I have read to date. It certainly has been helpful that I am an anglophile, but I am convinced one doesn't need to be that or anything close to that to still thoroughly enjoy this book. Nevertheless the astonishing amount of history and detail about Great Britain's monarchy simply opened my heart more than I could have imagined and expanded my mind tenfold. I enthusiastically suggest you not bypass this pearl. Spectacular!
NOTE: This book was provided by Bold Strokes Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
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