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The Private Lives of Public Playboys #3
A noiva do guerreiro do deserto
Ia ser necessário muito fogo para derreter o frio coração do seu marido.
Para Layla, a princesa de Tazkhan, o casamento que o pai tinha combinado antes de morrer significava passar o resto da vida cativa e a sofrer a crueldade do marido. Tal perspetiva levou-a a fugir e a entregar-se ao xeque Raz Al Zahki, o maior inimigo da sua família.
Raz exigia-lhe uma coisa em troca de a proteger a ela e à irmã. O guerreiro do deserto queria que ninguém pudesse dizer que o seu casamento não era verdadeiro, por esse motivo teriam de partilhar a cama como marido e mulher. Talvez agora Layla estivesse a salvo, mas o seu coração nem por isso…
140 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
About the author
Sarah Morgan
694 books7,491 followersAbout Sarah
USA Today and #1 Sunday Times bestselling author Sarah Morgan writes romance and contemporary women's fiction and her trademark humour and warmth have gained her fans across the globe. Sarah lives near London, England, and when she isn't reading or writing she loves being outdoors.
Sarah's latest novel is out now - Brave New Summer (UK title)/ Five Star Summer (US/Canadian title). Sarah's brand new Christmas book, THE BEST CHRISTMAS EVER is coming in October!
Join Sarah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSarahM...
Follow Sarah on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SarahMorgan_
Follow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmorgan...
Website: www.sarahmorgan.com
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
USA Today and #1 Sunday Times bestselling author Sarah Morgan writes romance and contemporary women's fiction and her trademark humour and warmth have gained her fans across the globe. Sarah lives near London, England, and when she isn't reading or writing she loves being outdoors.
Sarah's latest novel is out now - Brave New Summer (UK title)/ Five Star Summer (US/Canadian title). Sarah's brand new Christmas book, THE BEST CHRISTMAS EVER is coming in October!
Join Sarah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSarahM...
Follow Sarah on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SarahMorgan_
Follow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmorgan...
Website: www.sarahmorgan.com
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
May 5, 2018
The story was amazing, the H superb, loved the h, loved the secondary characters but I don't like when either H or h had been in love before, like really in love. Like in love with deserving people. I can do it if the other person was awful and the H or h realize they actually weren't in love before. But I can't do it when they've been in love before and that love was cut short because of death.
I just can't. I feel like there was a previous book where the H and the deceased wife had their HEA and an epilogue with their cute baby and boom the author felt like cheating me so she killed that h and recycled the H for a new story with a new h. It's like feeling all the other books I've read didn't really have their HEA but HUhD (Happy Until heroine Dies).
So why did I pick it up in the first place? Because so far I haven't found a heroine named Layla that I've managed not to love. And this brave h didn't disappoint, she was perfect.
More info about what went on with KC and Brenda
I just can't. I feel like there was a previous book where the H and the deceased wife had their HEA and an epilogue with their cute baby and boom the author felt like cheating me so she killed that h and recycled the H for a new story with a new h. It's like feeling all the other books I've read didn't really have their HEA but HUhD (Happy Until heroine Dies).
So why did I pick it up in the first place? Because so far I haven't found a heroine named Layla that I've managed not to love. And this brave h didn't disappoint, she was perfect.
More info about what went on with KC and Brenda
May 21, 2018
A marriage of convenience for palace politics story. In this case, it's the heroine "choosing the lesser of two evils" after her awful father's death. Hero, who is still mourning his first wife, is reluctant to marry again, but agrees.
The H/h have great sexual chemistry but there is a mutual mistrust that they have to work to overcome. The heroine had a terribly abusive childhood along with her sister (her fear of dogs is understandable!) but that has made her a strong, empathetic person. I liked her and I liked the hero.
My only quibble - the party with the breezy character from one SM's other stories really didn't fit the tone of the book. Everything was life and death and then they're dishing about who is "hot" and what to wear. Thankfully, SM went back to the action and intrigue for the last part of the story and the hero's declaration.
The H/h have great sexual chemistry but there is a mutual mistrust that they have to work to overcome. The heroine had a terribly abusive childhood along with her sister (her fear of dogs is understandable!) but that has made her a strong, empathetic person. I liked her and I liked the hero.
My only quibble - the party with the breezy character from one SM's other stories really didn't fit the tone of the book. Everything was life and death and then they're dishing about who is "hot" and what to wear. Thankfully, SM went back to the action and intrigue for the last part of the story and the hero's declaration.
August 4, 2013
Wow, this was a fantastic story. I adored the setting, the characters, the plot, everything! Layla is my ideal heroine. Her father was a tyrant but she is pure goodness and light. When he dies she escapes the palace with her little sister because she can't stand the prospect of her arranged marriage to a creepy evil sixty year old man. Desperation drives her to find Sheikh Raz Al Zahki her family's greatest enemy and propose him a marriage of convenience.
Even though Layla has lead a very sheltered life she is a brave, classy and a mature young woman. She is insecure when it comes to love but she knows Raz is a wonderful man and she is not afraid to trust him. Her love for her sister, her loyalty is deeply touching and I could relate to her 100%!
Raz is not exactly an alpha hero. He is a widower, a father and an amazing man. He sees right through Layla, he is protecting and caring and honorable. After the death of his wife he is closed off emotionally and is very afraid of loving again. But he realizes that Layla is not the spoiled princess he thought she was. He helps her get over her traumas of the past and she shows him how to open his heart to how he feels. They have scorching chemistry and passion. These two are really a match made in heaven. True soulmates!
4.5 stars! All this book needed was an epilogue.
Even though Layla has lead a very sheltered life she is a brave, classy and a mature young woman. She is insecure when it comes to love but she knows Raz is a wonderful man and she is not afraid to trust him. Her love for her sister, her loyalty is deeply touching and I could relate to her 100%!
Raz is not exactly an alpha hero. He is a widower, a father and an amazing man. He sees right through Layla, he is protecting and caring and honorable. After the death of his wife he is closed off emotionally and is very afraid of loving again. But he realizes that Layla is not the spoiled princess he thought she was. He helps her get over her traumas of the past and she shows him how to open his heart to how he feels. They have scorching chemistry and passion. These two are really a match made in heaven. True soulmates!
4.5 stars! All this book needed was an epilogue.
May 26, 2020
Like watching a classic Hollywood film, but with sex. The epic tone quickly sucked me in. Danger and suspense laced the beginning, followed later by good old-fashioned romance.
What began as a marriage of convenience happily led to true love for Layla and Raz. But it wasn't a smooth ride of course, especially with Raz guarding his heart. It also didn't help that he thought of Layla as a pampered princess.
I could see why Raz and Layla fell for each other. Layla was a brave, caring and smart heroine I could get behind. Raz, for his part, won my admiration for his protective attitude towards his loved ones and dedication to his country. It was only a matter of time before the two began to appreciate the sterling qualities the other possessed. Oh, and it didn't hurt that the sexual chemistry between them was scorching which led to some hot love scenes.
Minor issues:
1. Spoiler #2.
2. The resolution of the threats to Raz's rule and Layla's safety were tied up too neatly for my tastes.
3. The villains seemed one-dimensional.
What began as a marriage of convenience happily led to true love for Layla and Raz. But it wasn't a smooth ride of course, especially with Raz guarding his heart. It also didn't help that he thought of Layla as a pampered princess.
I could see why Raz and Layla fell for each other. Layla was a brave, caring and smart heroine I could get behind. Raz, for his part, won my admiration for his protective attitude towards his loved ones and dedication to his country. It was only a matter of time before the two began to appreciate the sterling qualities the other possessed. Oh, and it didn't hurt that the sexual chemistry between them was scorching which led to some hot love scenes.
Minor issues:
1. Spoiler #2.
2. The resolution of the threats to Raz's rule and Layla's safety were tied up too neatly for my tastes.
3. The villains seemed one-dimensional.
August 31, 2013
You would think I'd have learned by now. Rule No. One is never start a Sarah Morgan book after midnight. Do not take a quick peak at the first page...do not even read the blurb because you will be sucked into the vortex of passion and romance contained in her books.
You probably have figured out by now I'm sitting here writing the review with bleary eyes after staying up until 2.30am to finish Lost to the Desert Warrior.
The story of Layla and Raz certainly dragged me in right from the start. Layla is the ultimate innocent, a young woman whose whole aim in life is to protect her younger sister from her usurper father's evil henchman. Now the evil henchman Hassan is ready to seize power after the sudden death of Layla's father. His method will be to marry Layla and send her sister far away to America.
Bookish, logical Layla, in the first impulsive thing she has probably ever done, decides to throw herself on the mercy of the rightful heir to the throne. And all this is in the first chapter...
Raz lost his father and beloved wife to the machinations of Hassan making Layla the enemy. The choice to marry to save the kingdom is the logical one though repulsive at first to Raz. Layla, with her copy of a text that will assist her to learn about sex has no idea how such a marriage will work. Because it must be consummated under the law of the land or it can be put aside.
Both are caught unawares on their wedding night and react in different ways to the sizzling connection. From there it is an intriguing ride to the end as these two strangers get to know each other and gradually reveal their secrets.
I have to say I loved this book. No one will be surprised of course because there is a naive virgin heroine with smarts, a hot as sin Sheikh who isn't at all slutty *swoons* so what more could I want?
The story kept me gripped right to the end with a touch of suspense from the evil Hassan providing tension and a well developed love story in spite of the brevity of the story line.
You probably have figured out by now I'm sitting here writing the review with bleary eyes after staying up until 2.30am to finish Lost to the Desert Warrior.
The story of Layla and Raz certainly dragged me in right from the start. Layla is the ultimate innocent, a young woman whose whole aim in life is to protect her younger sister from her usurper father's evil henchman. Now the evil henchman Hassan is ready to seize power after the sudden death of Layla's father. His method will be to marry Layla and send her sister far away to America.
Bookish, logical Layla, in the first impulsive thing she has probably ever done, decides to throw herself on the mercy of the rightful heir to the throne. And all this is in the first chapter...
Raz lost his father and beloved wife to the machinations of Hassan making Layla the enemy. The choice to marry to save the kingdom is the logical one though repulsive at first to Raz. Layla, with her copy of a text that will assist her to learn about sex has no idea how such a marriage will work. Because it must be consummated under the law of the land or it can be put aside.
Both are caught unawares on their wedding night and react in different ways to the sizzling connection. From there it is an intriguing ride to the end as these two strangers get to know each other and gradually reveal their secrets.
I have to say I loved this book. No one will be surprised of course because there is a naive virgin heroine with smarts, a hot as sin Sheikh who isn't at all slutty *swoons* so what more could I want?
The story kept me gripped right to the end with a touch of suspense from the evil Hassan providing tension and a well developed love story in spite of the brevity of the story line.
September 7, 2013
Too many problems for me to rate this higher. It was like the people said one thing and did the exact opposite. The hero didn't want to marry her because he would always love his dead wife. But a week later, or it might have been 2 days later or 2 weeks later because time was all wonky in this thing, he is telling her they have something special and he had only turned out the light because he knew she was shy not because he couldn't bear to see that he was making love to the heroine and not his old wife. It was all too much too soon and then to have her tell him: "We all know I have no rights." Where the h*** did that come from. He has treated her well the entire time they've been together and given in to her every wish. I mean telling her that she wasn't to assume she was his daughter's mother after only a week was not cruel it was the truth! I didn't believe in their relationship/love at all and these are just some of the things I'm not buying into. I could go practically line by line.
I might have bought this story if it had played out over 6 months or so but in the 2 week time frame it was just ludicrous.
.
Sorry can't recommend it at all
I might have bought this story if it had played out over 6 months or so but in the 2 week time frame it was just ludicrous.
.
Sorry can't recommend it at all
May 20, 2018
Just as sweet the second time around.
Anyone know if her sister and his brother will get their HEA?
Anyone know if her sister and his brother will get their HEA?
April 28, 2022
The book was quite angsty.
Both the heroine and the hero had a traumatic past. She suffered because her father was cruel and absent, and left her and her sister to his partner in crime, the sadistic man he wanted her to marry.
The hero lost both his father and his beloved wife because of heroine's father.
So, when she goes to him asking to rescue her and her sister and to marry her to save her people from the evil om, the hero agrees to marry her but lets her know it would be a marriage without love because he can't love another woman since his beloved wife died.
The book is about the very brave and generous heroine trying to adapt to her new life and the hero falling in love with her when he realizes she's not the pampered and spolied woman he thought she was, but she's a victim of her father's cruelty just as he is.
The only thing that links them in the beginning is great sex, but afterwards he recognizes he's got feelings for her he thought he would never feel anymore and eventually he declares his love.
I loved this heroine, one of the best for me, she's really a strong and caring person, very sensible but loving and protective.
I liked her more than the hero but he was not a bad man too, he was obviously still grieving for his dead wife but in the end he understands that the heroine is his future and his love.
I would have liked a better declaration, because it seems to me she's second best anyway.
He said nothing about how caring and brave and self sacrificing she is, and I would have liked that he admitted to a more profound and adult feeling for her than he had for his wife who was his childhood friend.
But the whole book was not bad and both characters deserved to be happy.
Both the heroine and the hero had a traumatic past. She suffered because her father was cruel and absent, and left her and her sister to his partner in crime, the sadistic man he wanted her to marry.
The hero lost both his father and his beloved wife because of heroine's father.
So, when she goes to him asking to rescue her and her sister and to marry her to save her people from the evil om, the hero agrees to marry her but lets her know it would be a marriage without love because he can't love another woman since his beloved wife died.
The book is about the very brave and generous heroine trying to adapt to her new life and the hero falling in love with her when he realizes she's not the pampered and spolied woman he thought she was, but she's a victim of her father's cruelty just as he is.
The only thing that links them in the beginning is great sex, but afterwards he recognizes he's got feelings for her he thought he would never feel anymore and eventually he declares his love.
I loved this heroine, one of the best for me, she's really a strong and caring person, very sensible but loving and protective.
I liked her more than the hero but he was not a bad man too, he was obviously still grieving for his dead wife but in the end he understands that the heroine is his future and his love.
I would have liked a better declaration, because it seems to me she's second best anyway.
He said nothing about how caring and brave and self sacrificing she is, and I would have liked that he admitted to a more profound and adult feeling for her than he had for his wife who was his childhood friend.
But the whole book was not bad and both characters deserved to be happy.
September 9, 2016
Firstly, thank you Jenny for recommending this book to me. You were right; I loved it!
Writing and plotline: 5 stars
My own feelings about the book: 4.5 stars
Oh. Dear. God. I absolutely, positively loved loved loved this book. It was amazing!! I loved the plotline, I loved the characters, I loved the flow and I loved the marriage of convenience trope. I also loved how the author did not mention religion. I respect her for that. Respect and appreciate her.
First, I'll talk about the writing. She is an amazing writer. The entire book was really well written, the structure and plot well thought out and beautifully executed and the dialogues were superbly penned. It was really smooth, I can't think of a single thing not properly done.
Now I'll move onto the story and my feelings about it.
I'll say this again - I loved it so very much! I loved everything about it, especially the desert/Arab theme. I never thought I'd like a book with that theme, but Sarah Morgan proved me wrong. Now I want a kind and gentle desert warrior of my own!
Layla was an extremely likeable heroine. I liked how very practical she was, I loved her honesty and most of all, I loved how understanding she was. You don't find many heroines nowadays that try to put themselves in others' shoes when they themselves are in awful situations. She was so brave and courageous too. The way she tried to overcome her fears was very admirable. She was a real sweetheart. And the 'Kama Sutra' scene was hilarious!
The hero, Raz, was also very likeable. Not so in the beginning, I found myself taking Layla side the entire time, but as I've said before, I love asshole heroes. But he wasn't an asshole. He was just a beta hero trying to hide beneath an alpha's robes. He didn't want to get hurt again. He was solid and dependable. I loved how he was so considerate about Layla, and I loved his rapport with his daughter.
Another thing I loved was the horses theme. OH MY GOD, I LOVE HORSES!!!! And I loved Raz's horse's name too, Raja <3 I wish I knew how to ride properly :'(
Now let's move onto the sexual chemistry between the two characters. Two words; hot and sizzling! Day-um, this book gave me exactly what I ask for, and in less than 200 pages! The author perfectly balanced the *ahem*, the character development, the plotlines and the romance. I now have another favourite author. It was a wonderful read.
Writing and plotline: 5 stars
My own feelings about the book: 4.5 stars
Oh. Dear. God. I absolutely, positively loved loved loved this book. It was amazing!! I loved the plotline, I loved the characters, I loved the flow and I loved the marriage of convenience trope. I also loved how the author did not mention religion. I respect her for that. Respect and appreciate her.
First, I'll talk about the writing. She is an amazing writer. The entire book was really well written, the structure and plot well thought out and beautifully executed and the dialogues were superbly penned. It was really smooth, I can't think of a single thing not properly done.
Now I'll move onto the story and my feelings about it.
I'll say this again - I loved it so very much! I loved everything about it, especially the desert/Arab theme. I never thought I'd like a book with that theme, but Sarah Morgan proved me wrong. Now I want a kind and gentle desert warrior of my own!
Layla was an extremely likeable heroine. I liked how very practical she was, I loved her honesty and most of all, I loved how understanding she was. You don't find many heroines nowadays that try to put themselves in others' shoes when they themselves are in awful situations. She was so brave and courageous too. The way she tried to overcome her fears was very admirable. She was a real sweetheart. And the 'Kama Sutra' scene was hilarious!
The hero, Raz, was also very likeable. Not so in the beginning, I found myself taking Layla side the entire time, but as I've said before, I love asshole heroes. But he wasn't an asshole. He was just a beta hero trying to hide beneath an alpha's robes. He didn't want to get hurt again. He was solid and dependable. I loved how he was so considerate about Layla, and I loved his rapport with his daughter.
Another thing I loved was the horses theme. OH MY GOD, I LOVE HORSES!!!! And I loved Raz's horse's name too, Raja <3 I wish I knew how to ride properly :'(
Now let's move onto the sexual chemistry between the two characters. Two words; hot and sizzling! Day-um, this book gave me exactly what I ask for, and in less than 200 pages! The author perfectly balanced the *ahem*, the character development, the plotlines and the romance. I now have another favourite author. It was a wonderful read.
August 22, 2013
4.5 stars
Once again Sarah Morgan proves that she is an amazing author. This book is beautifully written, the storyline compelling, the characters well developed, rich with emotions and complex feelings.
Layla is a sweet heroine. She lived a very sheltered life, her knowledge of the world has only been gained from books. She may appear quiet and shy but she is also practical and brave. After the death of her tyrant father, she is the one that went looking for Raz, the legitimate ruler of her country, and suggested a marriage of convenience. To save her country, and herself, from another tyrant ruler.
It's the only way for Raz to have his throne back. But can he marry the daughter of the man who had destroyed his family and killed his beloved wife ?
Raz is a hero with dark depths. At first he seems cold, distant and uncaring. But with her patience and understanding, Layla wins his heart.
I hope the story of Yasmin and Salem is next. A dark moody hero and a heroine who can't seem to stop talking. Sounds like an interesting couple :)
Once again Sarah Morgan proves that she is an amazing author. This book is beautifully written, the storyline compelling, the characters well developed, rich with emotions and complex feelings.
Layla is a sweet heroine. She lived a very sheltered life, her knowledge of the world has only been gained from books. She may appear quiet and shy but she is also practical and brave. After the death of her tyrant father, she is the one that went looking for Raz, the legitimate ruler of her country, and suggested a marriage of convenience. To save her country, and herself, from another tyrant ruler.
It's the only way for Raz to have his throne back. But can he marry the daughter of the man who had destroyed his family and killed his beloved wife ?
Raz is a hero with dark depths. At first he seems cold, distant and uncaring. But with her patience and understanding, Layla wins his heart.
I hope the story of Yasmin and Salem is next. A dark moody hero and a heroine who can't seem to stop talking. Sounds like an interesting couple :)
August 4, 2013
Not quite 3 stars, but not quite 2.5 stars either. This one just wasn't believable to me. If he loved his first wife so much, how is it possible to fall in love with the heroine less than two years after his wife died and within a matter of only weeks of meeting the heroine? I think if this is the premise, we needed a much more evolved plot to make the love believable, which unfortunately cannot be accommodated within the limits of a Harlequin Presents. Too much of the limited space used up by gratuitous sex and pointless discussions about horses left no room for development of the relationship and made this one hard to buy or connect with.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2013
Oh my goodness - 25 Stars!!!!!
I loved this book.! Sarah Morgan is an amazing author and her stories and characters are always so well developed and loveable.
Layla is a young princess brought up in a cruel and loveless household. Running for her life - literally, she goes to Raz Al Zahki, the true ruler of her country from whom her father took the crown and Raz' wife. Layla suggests a marriage of political convenience but is totally unprepared for the emotional consequences.
Raz is one of the hottest heroes I've read about in a while. As always, a good sheik story always gets me right in the heart! I highly recommend this book to everyone.
I loved this book.! Sarah Morgan is an amazing author and her stories and characters are always so well developed and loveable.
Layla is a young princess brought up in a cruel and loveless household. Running for her life - literally, she goes to Raz Al Zahki, the true ruler of her country from whom her father took the crown and Raz' wife. Layla suggests a marriage of political convenience but is totally unprepared for the emotional consequences.
Raz is one of the hottest heroes I've read about in a while. As always, a good sheik story always gets me right in the heart! I highly recommend this book to everyone.
February 18, 2017
wow! such a cute and adorable romance.loved to watch both the hero and heroine fall in love.I generally want the heroine to be hero's first and only love but surprisingly I loved this book.great work by Sarah Morgan!I really want her to write the sequel.I'm already loving Yasmin.
May 18, 2018
wow a hot sheikh and a sweet heroine iam 😄 happy
August 5, 2013
Usually I write reviews once I finish reading a book and the words just come out of my mind if the book is very good, but Lost to the Desert Warrior, I did not finish the book but I think I can't wait to write a review.
Let me start with the cover page it so much looks like the princess came to the sheikh for help and the cover picture is amazing for the book which you have written.
Princess Layla is such a lovely character , she is such a sweet and innocent girl who does everything in her hand to save her sister and also the people of her country although I don't want to reveal the story but I can't help myself from writing that you have created a wonderful character Layla who protects her younger sister and who is willing to do anything for her people as well.
But she doesn't realize until she meets Sheikh Raz that somebody has to protect her as well and listen to her and care for her happiness.
I fell in love with Raz from the very beginning. A true desert warrior who knows how to handle danger and I loved his skill as a horse rider .(I read on your author's page as what inspired you to write about horses :):))
It was not easy for him to marry the princess after what he has undergone . To lose a wife whom you love the most and then marry the daughter of the enemy is not fair enough but he did it anyway.
I loved the chemistry between them also loved that I had a chance to meet Mal and Avery again .
Only your books makes me to write a review this big .
I won't write anymore coz I am scared that I might reveal something as a spoiler alert.
My guess is that your next release would be of Salim and Yasmin which am looking forward , hmm I can't miss meeting a princess who talks too much and Salim who is quiet opposite .
Let me start with the cover page it so much looks like the princess came to the sheikh for help and the cover picture is amazing for the book which you have written.
Princess Layla is such a lovely character , she is such a sweet and innocent girl who does everything in her hand to save her sister and also the people of her country although I don't want to reveal the story but I can't help myself from writing that you have created a wonderful character Layla who protects her younger sister and who is willing to do anything for her people as well.
But she doesn't realize until she meets Sheikh Raz that somebody has to protect her as well and listen to her and care for her happiness.
I fell in love with Raz from the very beginning. A true desert warrior who knows how to handle danger and I loved his skill as a horse rider .(I read on your author's page as what inspired you to write about horses :):))
It was not easy for him to marry the princess after what he has undergone . To lose a wife whom you love the most and then marry the daughter of the enemy is not fair enough but he did it anyway.
I loved the chemistry between them also loved that I had a chance to meet Mal and Avery again .
Only your books makes me to write a review this big .
I won't write anymore coz I am scared that I might reveal something as a spoiler alert.
My guess is that your next release would be of Salim and Yasmin which am looking forward , hmm I can't miss meeting a princess who talks too much and Salim who is quiet opposite .
August 17, 2017
Another gem from SM. And, to think I resisted reading this book for a long time because I'm not at all fond of books where the H had been in love with his first wife, but thankfully there's not too much of focus on that part. Loved the h. Typical SM heroine, sweet, compassionate, courageous. I liked how the H progressed from suspecting the h's motives at the beginning to trusting his daughter into her hands somewhere in the middle of the book and also how worried he was about her feeling overwhelmed in public at Mal & Avery's party (the leads of SM's Woman in a Sheikh's World). I also liked the relationship between h and H's daughter. Had the right amount of angst and emotions. Would have liked Layla's chatterbox sister to return and there be some reaction between her and Raz, unless, there is a book on her and Raz's brother Salem somewhere.
Nevertheless, a good read.
Nevertheless, a good read.
July 13, 2013
3.5 stars
This one didn't quite get to 4 stars for me but was definitely higher than 3.5 and well worth reading. The heroine really stood out for me but I couldn't quite get over the fact that she seemed to be having a jolly time with her new husband whilst her sister was still missing :(
Full review to follow.......
ARC kindly provided by Harlequin via Netgalley
This one didn't quite get to 4 stars for me but was definitely higher than 3.5 and well worth reading. The heroine really stood out for me but I couldn't quite get over the fact that she seemed to be having a jolly time with her new husband whilst her sister was still missing :(
Full review to follow.......
ARC kindly provided by Harlequin via Netgalley
February 21, 2015
this is the very practical love story of a mature couple. I found the passion between the two almost mechanical and sterile. This was probably how a Mills and Boon written in the Victorian Age would read like with stiff characters who deem duty more important than the passion brewing between them. All in all, it didn't appeal to me very much.
February 19, 2018
Love me a Sheikh.
May 26, 2020
Sweet one from SM. I’d give it 4 ⭐️ but the last third of the book dragged to death.
Raz was a hot sheikh, mighty and powerful. Layla was a subdued princess, beaten into submission thanks to her upbringing by her abusive father. When he passes away, Layla runs for her life (with her only sibling - a step sister) incase any of her father’s aides find her and forcefully marry Layla off to an old cousin of her father’s. All in the name of the throne, now that it’s vacant.
Layla has heard of Raz and blindly runs in the desert going to him for protection and providing herself in a MOC that gives the throne back to Raz whose family rightfully belonged to it.
Follows a night of hot pursuit. Raz is sexy and sure of himself. Layla despite being naive and gentle, was too mechanical in her character. She has to literally put out everything she thought, weigh the consequences and then give her opinion. She was obv a different mettle of an h with her unhappy upbringing and I didn’t connect with her as well.
Raz was also shown as very passionate and Layla was a damsel in distress all of the time. She’d keep rejecting his praise for her and kept on throwing a pity party for herself. Nothing anyone did for her or said to her or anything she did for herself was ever going to be enough. She’d carry a sob story for the rest of her life.
I lost interest the last third of the book and couldn’t wait for it to be over!
Raz was a hot sheikh, mighty and powerful. Layla was a subdued princess, beaten into submission thanks to her upbringing by her abusive father. When he passes away, Layla runs for her life (with her only sibling - a step sister) incase any of her father’s aides find her and forcefully marry Layla off to an old cousin of her father’s. All in the name of the throne, now that it’s vacant.
Layla has heard of Raz and blindly runs in the desert going to him for protection and providing herself in a MOC that gives the throne back to Raz whose family rightfully belonged to it.
Follows a night of hot pursuit. Raz is sexy and sure of himself. Layla despite being naive and gentle, was too mechanical in her character. She has to literally put out everything she thought, weigh the consequences and then give her opinion. She was obv a different mettle of an h with her unhappy upbringing and I didn’t connect with her as well.
Raz was also shown as very passionate and Layla was a damsel in distress all of the time. She’d keep rejecting his praise for her and kept on throwing a pity party for herself. Nothing anyone did for her or said to her or anything she did for herself was ever going to be enough. She’d carry a sob story for the rest of her life.
I lost interest the last third of the book and couldn’t wait for it to be over!
August 4, 2018
3.5 Stars
June 27, 2013
I've been waiting for what I like to call, a sheikh romance, for quite some time now. I've read a few, but none of them I could consider a good read.
Let me start by saying that I was born and raised in the Middle East, so I know the culture, customs and cultural mannerisms. It rare that an author not familiar with it, or researched it extensively "gets it."
I think Sarah Morgan gets it. Or as close to getting it as I found so far.
This story has it all, one (or more?) brutal villain, a bruised and brooding male lead, sweet moments, angst and nice fade to black hot sex. Oh, and a strong female character.
Layla was great. I really like her driven and protective personality. I think that in some respect, ms. Morgan was able to show a facet of the women Arab culture that is mostly ignored. Women are what ties families together, they're the voice of reason and are many times very smart. But they are more often than not overlooked and disregarded even in their own home.
Layla, the daughter of a harsh, power hungry ruler of Tazkhan has on,y her younger sister. Her father never pays either of his daughters any attention, saw them only a few times during their lives and is only using me for political gain. He even lets his cousin abuse them (can't say how, just read). She is, however, very smart, spends her days in the library reading, is very logical and practical and believes herself to be otherwise uninteresting.
When her father dies Layla takes Jasmin, her sister, and runs from the palace and into the desert. If she stays, within hours she'll be married to her father's brutal cousin who wants to be the king in his stead and her sister shipped to America. Layla would rather be at the mercy of the rightful heir to the throne, her father's enemy, Raz Al Zahki. She escapes on horseback with her sister, carrying only two books. Both books are for particular reasons. Layla faces some tricky challenges throughout the story but doesn't back down and through those challenges her true character comes to show.
Raz lost his family in an attempted assassination on his life. He cares nothing for Layla or her sister, believing them to have been living a life of luxury while he was mourning his family and biding his time until he can take back what is rightfully his.
Raz is fantastic. He's handsome, fearless, broody (and we all love those), logical and compassionate. He's also weary to trust people and doesn't trust Layla. But she makes some solid arguments that kickstarter the story.
Since this is an unedited copy that I've read I will only tease with one quote, because it had tension, teasing hint and gave insight into bith Layla and Raz's characters:
"I will send Salem to find your sister and instruct him to bring her here. I agree that there is no time to lose, so you and I will be married within the hour. I will send someone to help you prepare. Oh, and princess..." He paused by the entrance to the tent, his eyes a wicked shade if black. "You have no need of that book. When the time comes I will teach you what you need to know."
The book is well written, the story flows, and I felt sucked in to a world of sands, Arabian horses and blooming love. The natural progression of their relationship was seamless.
My only comments are the westernization of their behavior. At points it felt almost as if they're are both a little too casual about themselves and the circumstances. I would have preferred to get some more Arabic throughout the story, not just at the end (which was swoony beyond belief, btw).
Lost To The Desert Warrior is a great beach read, quick, somewhat predictable yet unique, well written and filled with swoons. What else do we need?
This advanced copy was provided by Harlequin and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
Let me start by saying that I was born and raised in the Middle East, so I know the culture, customs and cultural mannerisms. It rare that an author not familiar with it, or researched it extensively "gets it."
I think Sarah Morgan gets it. Or as close to getting it as I found so far.
This story has it all, one (or more?) brutal villain, a bruised and brooding male lead, sweet moments, angst and nice fade to black hot sex. Oh, and a strong female character.
Layla was great. I really like her driven and protective personality. I think that in some respect, ms. Morgan was able to show a facet of the women Arab culture that is mostly ignored. Women are what ties families together, they're the voice of reason and are many times very smart. But they are more often than not overlooked and disregarded even in their own home.
Layla, the daughter of a harsh, power hungry ruler of Tazkhan has on,y her younger sister. Her father never pays either of his daughters any attention, saw them only a few times during their lives and is only using me for political gain. He even lets his cousin abuse them (can't say how, just read). She is, however, very smart, spends her days in the library reading, is very logical and practical and believes herself to be otherwise uninteresting.
When her father dies Layla takes Jasmin, her sister, and runs from the palace and into the desert. If she stays, within hours she'll be married to her father's brutal cousin who wants to be the king in his stead and her sister shipped to America. Layla would rather be at the mercy of the rightful heir to the throne, her father's enemy, Raz Al Zahki. She escapes on horseback with her sister, carrying only two books. Both books are for particular reasons. Layla faces some tricky challenges throughout the story but doesn't back down and through those challenges her true character comes to show.
Raz lost his family in an attempted assassination on his life. He cares nothing for Layla or her sister, believing them to have been living a life of luxury while he was mourning his family and biding his time until he can take back what is rightfully his.
Raz is fantastic. He's handsome, fearless, broody (and we all love those), logical and compassionate. He's also weary to trust people and doesn't trust Layla. But she makes some solid arguments that kickstarter the story.
Since this is an unedited copy that I've read I will only tease with one quote, because it had tension, teasing hint and gave insight into bith Layla and Raz's characters:
"I will send Salem to find your sister and instruct him to bring her here. I agree that there is no time to lose, so you and I will be married within the hour. I will send someone to help you prepare. Oh, and princess..." He paused by the entrance to the tent, his eyes a wicked shade if black. "You have no need of that book. When the time comes I will teach you what you need to know."
The book is well written, the story flows, and I felt sucked in to a world of sands, Arabian horses and blooming love. The natural progression of their relationship was seamless.
My only comments are the westernization of their behavior. At points it felt almost as if they're are both a little too casual about themselves and the circumstances. I would have preferred to get some more Arabic throughout the story, not just at the end (which was swoony beyond belief, btw).
Lost To The Desert Warrior is a great beach read, quick, somewhat predictable yet unique, well written and filled with swoons. What else do we need?
This advanced copy was provided by Harlequin and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
August 25, 2013
Lost to the Desert Warrior by Sarah Morgan
There is a reason why Sarah Morgan is a two time Rita Award winner. Her stories take you on a magical trip to far off places. And I found myself out in the desert this time.
There is nothing that Layla, Princess of Tazkhan thinks could be worse in life than marrying Hassan a cruel 60 year old man. So when her father dies unexpectedly and orders on his death bed, that she marry Hassan, Layla takes matters into her own hands and rides into the desert with her sister Yasmin. She goes in search of the only man who might be able to save her. Her family's greatest enemy!
Sheikh Raz Al Zahki has a good reason to hate Layla’s family. He believes her father and Hassan were behind the accident that killed his wife Nisa, the love of his life. But he agrees to marry Layla so he can take his rightful place as the head of Tazkhan. Raz just oozes sex appeal. It made me wish I was Layla for a while.
The descriptions of the desert were amazing. The plot was totally believable. The characters I thought were well suited for each other. And the passion wow – wow - wow !!! I also enjoyed how Raz could sense things about Layla, he knew something had happen in her life regarding dogs. But he also learned just because you are born as a Princess, it doesn’t always mean you live a fairy tale life.
We also visit with Crown Prince Malik and Avery from Sarah’s book titled - Woman in a Sheikh’s World. It was great to touch base with them and see what they were up to lately.
One of my favorite passages in the book, referring the the Kama Sutra …
I agree that there is no time to lose, so you and I will be married within the hour. I will send someone to help you prepare. Oh, and princess …’ He paused by the entrance to the tent, his eyes a wicked shade of black. ‘You have no need of that book. When the time comes I will teach you what you need to know. ‘
5/5 stars
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There is a reason why Sarah Morgan is a two time Rita Award winner. Her stories take you on a magical trip to far off places. And I found myself out in the desert this time.
There is nothing that Layla, Princess of Tazkhan thinks could be worse in life than marrying Hassan a cruel 60 year old man. So when her father dies unexpectedly and orders on his death bed, that she marry Hassan, Layla takes matters into her own hands and rides into the desert with her sister Yasmin. She goes in search of the only man who might be able to save her. Her family's greatest enemy!
Sheikh Raz Al Zahki has a good reason to hate Layla’s family. He believes her father and Hassan were behind the accident that killed his wife Nisa, the love of his life. But he agrees to marry Layla so he can take his rightful place as the head of Tazkhan. Raz just oozes sex appeal. It made me wish I was Layla for a while.
The descriptions of the desert were amazing. The plot was totally believable. The characters I thought were well suited for each other. And the passion wow – wow - wow !!! I also enjoyed how Raz could sense things about Layla, he knew something had happen in her life regarding dogs. But he also learned just because you are born as a Princess, it doesn’t always mean you live a fairy tale life.
We also visit with Crown Prince Malik and Avery from Sarah’s book titled - Woman in a Sheikh’s World. It was great to touch base with them and see what they were up to lately.
One of my favorite passages in the book, referring the the Kama Sutra …
I agree that there is no time to lose, so you and I will be married within the hour. I will send someone to help you prepare. Oh, and princess …’ He paused by the entrance to the tent, his eyes a wicked shade of black. ‘You have no need of that book. When the time comes I will teach you what you need to know. ‘
5/5 stars
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2014
Lovely Mills and Boons story
I rarely read Mills & boons , due to lots of reasons , too cliche , weak characters , not good story , etc etc ... But this one was highly recommended by my sister , so I gave it a shot ... & my i am so happy I did.
I loved the characters ...
The princess was so brave , not in your I-know-how-to-fight-with swords kinda brave , but more of I-am-scared-but-I-will-fight-for-my-sister kinda brave. She was the shy girl , but behind her shyness was the wisdom of her years of reading , she was caring & brave , she fought for her loved ones & didnt hesitate to sacrifice her self , She was patient and tried to make the best out of situation .
The prince was a real warrior , he fiercely protected not only his family and loved ones , but also the people . He was very thoughtful & sincere , he had a way of showing love more with actions rather than words .....
the story was same old , princess sacrifices her self to marry the enemy , to protect the people and herself , & the enemy who was not actually "The Enemy" gives his protection and a beautiful life to the princess .. and they lived happily ever after...
I rarely read Mills & boons , due to lots of reasons , too cliche , weak characters , not good story , etc etc ... But this one was highly recommended by my sister , so I gave it a shot ... & my i am so happy I did.
I loved the characters ...
The princess was so brave , not in your I-know-how-to-fight-with swords kinda brave , but more of I-am-scared-but-I-will-fight-for-my-sister kinda brave. She was the shy girl , but behind her shyness was the wisdom of her years of reading , she was caring & brave , she fought for her loved ones & didnt hesitate to sacrifice her self , She was patient and tried to make the best out of situation .
The prince was a real warrior , he fiercely protected not only his family and loved ones , but also the people . He was very thoughtful & sincere , he had a way of showing love more with actions rather than words .....
the story was same old , princess sacrifices her self to marry the enemy , to protect the people and herself , & the enemy who was not actually "The Enemy" gives his protection and a beautiful life to the princess .. and they lived happily ever after...
April 22, 2015
It alright, I suppose. I got bored of it really fast and I didn't feel as if there was enough time for the H and h to fall in love. The h(heroine) wasn't all the great and didn't have that much presence. I guess I can give her props for getting her self out of a bad situation-not once but twice. The Hero was alright I guess...The whole book isn't very memorable at all.
September 1, 2013
3.5 stars
I'm just on a roll with my sheikhs. Raz was determined not too love again after his wife died at the hands of his enemy who stole his throne, and he never expected to love his enemy's daughter. But when Layla came to him in the middle of the night and proposed they marry to thwart the ambitions of her fathers friend and jerk, Raz fell deep. Layla's life had been horrible. I'm so glad Raz wanted to take care of her and make sure she was happy :)
all in all, a great way to spend a morning :)
I'm just on a roll with my sheikhs. Raz was determined not too love again after his wife died at the hands of his enemy who stole his throne, and he never expected to love his enemy's daughter. But when Layla came to him in the middle of the night and proposed they marry to thwart the ambitions of her fathers friend and jerk, Raz fell deep. Layla's life had been horrible. I'm so glad Raz wanted to take care of her and make sure she was happy :)
all in all, a great way to spend a morning :)
February 4, 2014
We all talk about a heroine not knowing her own mind. But a hero..?
Sheikh Raz Al Zahki has vowed never to marry or love again, after the sudden death of his beloved wife. But a political marriage to Layla, princess of Tazkhan would give his people stability and fulfill his right to the throne. Unlike the twenty thousand marriage of convenience romances out there, he treats her extremely well. I can go far as saying, he is kind to her and tries being friends.
Errr.. but I can't believe in the U-turn he pulls, and takes his 'second chance' in two weeks time.
Sheikh Raz Al Zahki has vowed never to marry or love again, after the sudden death of his beloved wife. But a political marriage to Layla, princess of Tazkhan would give his people stability and fulfill his right to the throne. Unlike the twenty thousand marriage of convenience romances out there, he treats her extremely well. I can go far as saying, he is kind to her and tries being friends.
Errr.. but I can't believe in the U-turn he pulls, and takes his 'second chance' in two weeks time.
July 6, 2013
I keep flipping between a 3.5 and a 4 for this one, though I am leaning towards a 4. There was just something about the hot smexin before either one even cared for the other that I think bugged me a bit -- I prefer for there to be something more than just chemistry between protagonists before they hop into bed, even (or maybe especially) if it's only on one side.
Still, great story, plenty of heat, and a lovely ending.
3.5-4/5, full review to follow.
Still, great story, plenty of heat, and a lovely ending.
3.5-4/5, full review to follow.
June 21, 2015
If this was longer and had explored the character's backgrounds and evolving relationship, I would rate it higher. However, it is the requisite length for a HP + a tad reminiscent of a Barbara Cartland story. 3.5 stars.
July 11, 2015
4 stars
I really enjoyed this. The characters were likable, their conflicts were believable, and even the suspenseful scene at the end worked for me. I think this is my first Sarah Morgan, but it won't be my last. This was a very engaging escape from reality for me.
I really enjoyed this. The characters were likable, their conflicts were believable, and even the suspenseful scene at the end worked for me. I think this is my first Sarah Morgan, but it won't be my last. This was a very engaging escape from reality for me.
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