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Hidden Passion
Rukmani, the youngest of her family, has always had her way and she thinks she would too when the question of her marriage arises. But when she expresses her wishes, her world comes crumbling down because aristocratic affairs seem to matter more than her heart. Who can she run to but the strongest ruler of the region, Deveshwaraya?
Devesh finds himself torn between duty and desire. He is drawn to her yet being with her jeopardizes everything he has worked for. When even protecting her invites trouble, how can he let his heart become involved?
When the walls of monarchical politics rise high between them, will her passion prevail?
Hidden Passion – the story of a princess daring to reach out for her heart’s desire.
Devesh finds himself torn between duty and desire. He is drawn to her yet being with her jeopardizes everything he has worked for. When even protecting her invites trouble, how can he let his heart become involved?
When the walls of monarchical politics rise high between them, will her passion prevail?
Hidden Passion – the story of a princess daring to reach out for her heart’s desire.
Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2014
10 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Summerita Rhayne
26 books59 followersSummerita Rhayne writes sensual romance which is sheer escapism with lots of emotional conflict. She first got published in 2013 and has won contests with prestigious publishers such as Harlequin and Harper Collins India. Writing, she finds, is the only way to deal with the numerous story ideas bubbling in her brain which pop up more rapidly than her keyboard can do justice to. Her pet belief is that even when writing time is in short supply, if the inspiration is strong enough, the story characters get a life of their own and will find a way to make the writer pen them down. When cerebrally confronted with the sizzling interaction of two Alpha characters, the only way to get peace is write their book!
At heart, she's a family person and even though she loves her medical teaching profession, she happily becomes a homemaker when not at work. She loves winding down with music, movies, cricket (strictly watching only) and social networking.
At heart, she's a family person and even though she loves her medical teaching profession, she happily becomes a homemaker when not at work. She loves winding down with music, movies, cricket (strictly watching only) and social networking.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
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August 27, 2018An enjoyable historical royalty romance of the fantasy kingdom type, set in a medieval alt-Rajasthani type kingdom. Wilful spoilt princess meets risen-from-the-people king and sets her heart on him despite her family's scheming. It could very easily have run to more length and depth in the setting which would have allowed for more meat in the conflict, but it makes a very entertaining novella as is, and how enjoyable to get this setting for alt-royalty and historical romance.
December 25, 2014
There is much to love about the story of Kamboj princess Rukmani and royal ruler Devesh. The story moves along at a brisk pace, encompassing romance, tragedy, action and even a few healthy doses of philosophy and politics.
The author managed to make the setting and characters come alive by painting a picture in rich detail without ever letting the plot slacken.
I appreciate the way Rukmani is at once the spoiled, slightly childish, naïve and impetuous princess and also a young woman with a strong will, on a quest for love and for finding herself and her place in the world. Her infatuation with sometimes arrogant and aggressive, at other times caring and intelligent Devesh was all too understandable. He’s a great hero, a hunky and powerful alpha male with feelings hidden beneath the hard veneer, with brain as well as brawn. The two of them make a formidable couple and seem made for each other, despite the circumstances.
I have always been fascinated by ancient India, and Summerita Rhayne took me right back to that intriguing era with its charms and horrors. The power plays and intrigues, the customs and the language transport the reader into the past.
This is a novella gripping enough to read in one go, with just the right amount of background information, with witty dialogue, and with two strong, vivid protagonists that fall in love and in lust.
If you enjoy historical romances and / or stories set in India, give this book a chance!
The author managed to make the setting and characters come alive by painting a picture in rich detail without ever letting the plot slacken.
I appreciate the way Rukmani is at once the spoiled, slightly childish, naïve and impetuous princess and also a young woman with a strong will, on a quest for love and for finding herself and her place in the world. Her infatuation with sometimes arrogant and aggressive, at other times caring and intelligent Devesh was all too understandable. He’s a great hero, a hunky and powerful alpha male with feelings hidden beneath the hard veneer, with brain as well as brawn. The two of them make a formidable couple and seem made for each other, despite the circumstances.
I have always been fascinated by ancient India, and Summerita Rhayne took me right back to that intriguing era with its charms and horrors. The power plays and intrigues, the customs and the language transport the reader into the past.
This is a novella gripping enough to read in one go, with just the right amount of background information, with witty dialogue, and with two strong, vivid protagonists that fall in love and in lust.
If you enjoy historical romances and / or stories set in India, give this book a chance!
January 5, 2015
"Hidden Passion" is Summerita's best to date - and one of her shortest!
Yes, I was disappointed that it ended so soon - on the one hand I wanted to hurry up and finish it because I was bursting to write the review, but when it did finish, I felt sorry to put it away.
I absolutely loved the story. Rukmini is even more fabulous than the cover of the book suggests. She is every inch a princess - an imperious beauty, and spirited as they come. She is easily a match for the King of Kings - Devesh, often besting him in arguments. Determined not to be browbeaten by her father and brothers, she gets into one scrape after another, reminding me of other feisty historical heroines brought to life by another author that I love so well - Georgette Heyer.
The language of the story teller is engaging - not a misstep anywhere! The historical aspects of the story - the era, the clothing, the behavior - all sounded just perfect. I was never very good at history in any case, but reading about ancient times in this book was fun!
Yes, I was disappointed that it ended so soon - on the one hand I wanted to hurry up and finish it because I was bursting to write the review, but when it did finish, I felt sorry to put it away.
I absolutely loved the story. Rukmini is even more fabulous than the cover of the book suggests. She is every inch a princess - an imperious beauty, and spirited as they come. She is easily a match for the King of Kings - Devesh, often besting him in arguments. Determined not to be browbeaten by her father and brothers, she gets into one scrape after another, reminding me of other feisty historical heroines brought to life by another author that I love so well - Georgette Heyer.
The language of the story teller is engaging - not a misstep anywhere! The historical aspects of the story - the era, the clothing, the behavior - all sounded just perfect. I was never very good at history in any case, but reading about ancient times in this book was fun!
October 29, 2020
Great quick read!
I wasn't sure what to expect, as this is the first book I've read by this author but I was pleasantly surprised to be caught up in the story within the first few pages!
The characters are interesting and though the princess is young and spoiled by her family, I still felt her emotions to be fitting of the situations!
You will find yourself wanting to read on to see what she will do next, as well as the strong male object of her desire!
I found this book to be well-written and captivating! I look forward to reading more by this author!
I wasn't sure what to expect, as this is the first book I've read by this author but I was pleasantly surprised to be caught up in the story within the first few pages!
The characters are interesting and though the princess is young and spoiled by her family, I still felt her emotions to be fitting of the situations!
You will find yourself wanting to read on to see what she will do next, as well as the strong male object of her desire!
I found this book to be well-written and captivating! I look forward to reading more by this author!
January 19, 2015
Love, passion, desire, power, politics, royalty are all blended to take the reader back in time with the Khamboj princess, Rukmani and the Royal Emperor Devesh. Summerita's writing is vibrant and lucid and the reader can almost see the tale unfold before their eyes.
Rukmani is the youngest of the Khamboj princess and she has given her heart to the rugged royal King Devesh, against the will of her father the King of Khamboj and her brothers the Princes of Khamboj. Though a delicate and dainty princess her will is insurmountable. As we read on we find that her character has manifold layers.
When King Devesh invites her family to visit him she gets her way into going on a spear hunt and she is more than willing to show that she desires him and take that impulsive leap. When her parents disapprove of her choice of bridegroom she is not scared to brave the weather, the forest and the unknown to run for help to her lover who is also the protector of her kingdom. When spurned she is unabashedly ready to become his courtesan, when the consequences are laid before her she shows her naivete towards politics and when asked to follow she is ready for any adventure. Yet she knows her mind, she is decidedly clear that she will follow her heart and is ready for any calamity that befalls her. A girl so sure of herself would also probably know what she is good with if she had to lead another life yet the question baffles her and she is despondent at this point because in her mind she is good at nothing.
She is a bag full of paradox and yet an endearing character which is why Devesh the ruler of all the neighboring kingdoms is inexorably in love with her but holds himself back because he is capable of comprehending what such a step might encompass and how this would endanger his entire empire. Devesh is quite the opposite of Rukmani in many ways. He has had no protected childhood, a leader of his clan, a war hero, ruggedly handsome completely opposite of exquisitely beautiful and graceful Rukmani.
Though the story is fast paced nevertheless Summerita sketches every detail about the apparels, the surroundings, the hunt, the palace, without losing the rhythm of it all. She keeps the reader engaged with her tale of passion, and the books makes for a good and fast read.
Rukmani is the youngest of the Khamboj princess and she has given her heart to the rugged royal King Devesh, against the will of her father the King of Khamboj and her brothers the Princes of Khamboj. Though a delicate and dainty princess her will is insurmountable. As we read on we find that her character has manifold layers.
When King Devesh invites her family to visit him she gets her way into going on a spear hunt and she is more than willing to show that she desires him and take that impulsive leap. When her parents disapprove of her choice of bridegroom she is not scared to brave the weather, the forest and the unknown to run for help to her lover who is also the protector of her kingdom. When spurned she is unabashedly ready to become his courtesan, when the consequences are laid before her she shows her naivete towards politics and when asked to follow she is ready for any adventure. Yet she knows her mind, she is decidedly clear that she will follow her heart and is ready for any calamity that befalls her. A girl so sure of herself would also probably know what she is good with if she had to lead another life yet the question baffles her and she is despondent at this point because in her mind she is good at nothing.
She is a bag full of paradox and yet an endearing character which is why Devesh the ruler of all the neighboring kingdoms is inexorably in love with her but holds himself back because he is capable of comprehending what such a step might encompass and how this would endanger his entire empire. Devesh is quite the opposite of Rukmani in many ways. He has had no protected childhood, a leader of his clan, a war hero, ruggedly handsome completely opposite of exquisitely beautiful and graceful Rukmani.
Though the story is fast paced nevertheless Summerita sketches every detail about the apparels, the surroundings, the hunt, the palace, without losing the rhythm of it all. She keeps the reader engaged with her tale of passion, and the books makes for a good and fast read.
February 9, 2015
I picked the book up for its attractive cover and the promise it had made of being an out and out romance of the Mills and Boon kind. I was NOT disappointed in my surmise.
The book jumps into the thick of the things from the word go. Right from the start, we see Princess Rukmini eyeing the handsome Samrat Deveshvarya. Rukmini is visiting Minali, the grand capital of Campavati, with her parents and family. They are the guests of Samrat Deveshvarya. Rukmini is instantly attracted to the rugged handsomeness of Devesh. She contrives to get close to him, but he treats her like a little girl who should be put back in her place.
As it happens, Devesh is not immune to the charms of Rukmini. He is quite taken by the hot headed, impulsive Princess. He is not really a king by lineage, and his low birth would never be accepted by the parents of Rukmini. Devesh wants no bad blood among the kings of his kingdoms. He is being sensible and trying to keep away from Rukmini.
He has a lot to learn about Rukmini, she is not just a spoilt princess. She is a determined young woman and can take charge of her destiny. He finds he cannot ignore her, and she will find a way into his heart by hook or by crook.
The book is a romance, and it never strays from its path. There are all sorts of intrigues to keep the story interesting, but it never wanders far from the doings of Devesh and Rukmini. There is a lot of passion in the tale. I often find romance books by Indian authors a wee bit insipid. Not this book! The tale is told with a lot of zeal and gusto.
There is plenty of naughty stuff going on too. I had to fan myself frequently to cool off a bit. Whew!
The language could have been better here and there. Maybe a few simpler words in place of grand ones. The story focuses on just the two people and others seem to make guest appearances in their story.
It serves to keep the tale uncluttered, as it is a romance and the story keeps firmly on its track, the passionate tale of Devesh and Rukmini.
The book jumps into the thick of the things from the word go. Right from the start, we see Princess Rukmini eyeing the handsome Samrat Deveshvarya. Rukmini is visiting Minali, the grand capital of Campavati, with her parents and family. They are the guests of Samrat Deveshvarya. Rukmini is instantly attracted to the rugged handsomeness of Devesh. She contrives to get close to him, but he treats her like a little girl who should be put back in her place.
As it happens, Devesh is not immune to the charms of Rukmini. He is quite taken by the hot headed, impulsive Princess. He is not really a king by lineage, and his low birth would never be accepted by the parents of Rukmini. Devesh wants no bad blood among the kings of his kingdoms. He is being sensible and trying to keep away from Rukmini.
He has a lot to learn about Rukmini, she is not just a spoilt princess. She is a determined young woman and can take charge of her destiny. He finds he cannot ignore her, and she will find a way into his heart by hook or by crook.
The book is a romance, and it never strays from its path. There are all sorts of intrigues to keep the story interesting, but it never wanders far from the doings of Devesh and Rukmini. There is a lot of passion in the tale. I often find romance books by Indian authors a wee bit insipid. Not this book! The tale is told with a lot of zeal and gusto.
There is plenty of naughty stuff going on too. I had to fan myself frequently to cool off a bit. Whew!
The language could have been better here and there. Maybe a few simpler words in place of grand ones. The story focuses on just the two people and others seem to make guest appearances in their story.
It serves to keep the tale uncluttered, as it is a romance and the story keeps firmly on its track, the passionate tale of Devesh and Rukmini.
January 16, 2015
Note : A Review of this book is up @ Readers' Muse
I had the opportunity of beta reading this short and sprightly read. Our protagonist Rukmani, the princess falls for the quintessential “oh-so-hot” Devesh, who became the prime from being a humble farmer. When she suggests marriage both her family and Devesh initially balk away for Devesh cannot afford to have a rebellion due to this alliance. His desire and sense of duty clash with each other and though he desperately wants Rukmani, he is hesitant to take the ultimate step initially.
The story is truly what the summary promises – the story of a princess daring (translates to running away from home) to reach out for her heart’s desire.
When analysed based on the flexibility of the extent the writer takes up the suggestions of the beta readers, Summerita scores admirably. The difference between the initial draft and the changed story is remarkable. Certain parts of the story were added, and these gave the story's characters some much needed depth. It is a joy to read the changed version of the book and enjoy those parts that were added as a results of opinions being valued.
Most of the books involving a period theme tend to be borderline pukish-erotic. Thankfully this writer avoided that route. The chemistry between Rukmani and Devesh was crackling and perfect. In fact, it was a bit overpowering and left a lasting impression. So much so that I remember those parts in the best clarity weeks after reading the book.
The story had all the essential elements such as tragedy, romance and action in the right quantity making it a short yet delightful read.
To sum it up, the story line, the narration and emotions were packaged to produce a neat, short and sweet romance novel.
VERDICT: Why not?! Go for it!
RATING: 4 on 5
VERDICT: Why not?! Go for it!
RATING: 4 on 5
I had the opportunity of beta reading this short and sprightly read. Our protagonist Rukmani, the princess falls for the quintessential “oh-so-hot” Devesh, who became the prime from being a humble farmer. When she suggests marriage both her family and Devesh initially balk away for Devesh cannot afford to have a rebellion due to this alliance. His desire and sense of duty clash with each other and though he desperately wants Rukmani, he is hesitant to take the ultimate step initially.
The story is truly what the summary promises – the story of a princess daring (translates to running away from home) to reach out for her heart’s desire.
When analysed based on the flexibility of the extent the writer takes up the suggestions of the beta readers, Summerita scores admirably. The difference between the initial draft and the changed story is remarkable. Certain parts of the story were added, and these gave the story's characters some much needed depth. It is a joy to read the changed version of the book and enjoy those parts that were added as a results of opinions being valued.
Most of the books involving a period theme tend to be borderline pukish-erotic. Thankfully this writer avoided that route. The chemistry between Rukmani and Devesh was crackling and perfect. In fact, it was a bit overpowering and left a lasting impression. So much so that I remember those parts in the best clarity weeks after reading the book.
The story had all the essential elements such as tragedy, romance and action in the right quantity making it a short yet delightful read.
To sum it up, the story line, the narration and emotions were packaged to produce a neat, short and sweet romance novel.
VERDICT: Why not?! Go for it!
RATING: 4 on 5
VERDICT: Why not?! Go for it!
RATING: 4 on 5
January 30, 2015
Summerita is a mystery and after reading her second book, I am still to decide what motivates her to pen two such different novels. Her previous book Against All Rules and this one are poles apart and she has done a good job recreating the medieval ages for her readers.
It is a light hearted historical romance and she has got the vibe of the nerve of the tradition and culture of those days many aeons ago. She has depicted the situations and the lifestyle and environment so beautifully. The robes, the palaces and the hunt, the traditions are all penned in a manner that flows with the story of the book.
The novella unfolds at a fast pace and the attraction between the King Devesh and Rukmini is instant. They both fall for each other and the sparks fly from the first meeting. The handsome, hunky, solid king is the perfect foil for the petite, headstrong and flirtatious Princess.
The two of them try to maintain a distance and it is a struggle for the king but Rukmini is a liberated soul. She knows her mind and being the youngest of her siblings is doted by her family. She has her heart set on the king and for a change she does the pursuing. A strong willed leading lady and a story with a lot to twists and turns add a lot of fun to this book. The princess could be a lady of today’s world and one who does not compromise for her decisions.
The added charm is the difficult situations they both fall into due to the impulsive and temperamental nature of Rukmini! I sure had a good laugh at her flashing temper getting her into trouble; sometimes more than she can handle!!
I found Hidden Passion true to its name and this book had all the elements for making a fast, gripping tale and an excellent weekend read. The chemistry and passion, the valour and courage of the king Devesh and his temptress is so endearing.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series!
It is a light hearted historical romance and she has got the vibe of the nerve of the tradition and culture of those days many aeons ago. She has depicted the situations and the lifestyle and environment so beautifully. The robes, the palaces and the hunt, the traditions are all penned in a manner that flows with the story of the book.
The novella unfolds at a fast pace and the attraction between the King Devesh and Rukmini is instant. They both fall for each other and the sparks fly from the first meeting. The handsome, hunky, solid king is the perfect foil for the petite, headstrong and flirtatious Princess.
The two of them try to maintain a distance and it is a struggle for the king but Rukmini is a liberated soul. She knows her mind and being the youngest of her siblings is doted by her family. She has her heart set on the king and for a change she does the pursuing. A strong willed leading lady and a story with a lot to twists and turns add a lot of fun to this book. The princess could be a lady of today’s world and one who does not compromise for her decisions.
The added charm is the difficult situations they both fall into due to the impulsive and temperamental nature of Rukmini! I sure had a good laugh at her flashing temper getting her into trouble; sometimes more than she can handle!!
I found Hidden Passion true to its name and this book had all the elements for making a fast, gripping tale and an excellent weekend read. The chemistry and passion, the valour and courage of the king Devesh and his temptress is so endearing.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series!
September 26, 2015
Historical genre is one of my favorite genres. Having devoured Barbara Cartland,Anna Campbell, Eloisa James, Julia Quinn and Sarah Maclean, I was a bit skeptical when I got this book for review from the Author, Summerita Rhayne. I was all prepared for a demure heroine and a lot of 'priye', 'pitashri' and 'mrignayani' thrown in. For those who are wondering what the words mean, its 'love', 'Father' and 'Doe-eyes' respectively. And before any of you snicker, the regency novels are full of them too. But somehow we have made it into a joke in our Indian genre. So I promised myself to read this with an open mind and accept the fact that there was a time when people did use these words.
Sizzling Chemistry..
"She had an impulse to trace those planes and angles. His mouth.... she blushed at the thought of how it might feel to have it touch her. She was an innocent as princesses were expected to be."
.... and thank god she isn't. She is spunky, knows her mind and is a rebellion. All the ingredients I like in a girl (except in my daughter..PJ) Rukmini is portrayed as girl who follows her heart. She is depicted as an huntress, seductress and above all a woman who can fight her own battle. She had me lusting after Devesh and mock Pala, one of her suitors. I applauded when she questioned her father regading her marriage. Her words,
"I select everything I own myself, my clothes,my jewellery. Why can't you allow me to choose the man I wish to marry?"
The above line shows very clearly that her upbringing had been very forward compared to those days yet marriage is one space where she is not given the rights. Why?
Check the full review at
http://www.rubinaramesh.com/2015/04/h...
Sizzling Chemistry..
"She had an impulse to trace those planes and angles. His mouth.... she blushed at the thought of how it might feel to have it touch her. She was an innocent as princesses were expected to be."
.... and thank god she isn't. She is spunky, knows her mind and is a rebellion. All the ingredients I like in a girl (except in my daughter..PJ) Rukmini is portrayed as girl who follows her heart. She is depicted as an huntress, seductress and above all a woman who can fight her own battle. She had me lusting after Devesh and mock Pala, one of her suitors. I applauded when she questioned her father regading her marriage. Her words,
"I select everything I own myself, my clothes,my jewellery. Why can't you allow me to choose the man I wish to marry?"
The above line shows very clearly that her upbringing had been very forward compared to those days yet marriage is one space where she is not given the rights. Why?
Check the full review at
http://www.rubinaramesh.com/2015/04/h...
February 14, 2015
Hidden Passion by Summerita Rhayne had me smiling from the word go. It helps that I love historical romances. From reading the genre set in England to finding this homegrown gem, there is finally a desi writer who does justice to swashbuckling romance. The sizzle between the autocratic Samrat Devesh and the impetuous Princess Rukmani with adventure and intrigue thrown in for good measure make for a light-hearted roller-coaster ride set in the past. The gumptious rajkumari is constantly off on hare-brained schemes keeping the exasperated samrat on his toes to rescue her and avert impending disasters.
Well, what can I say - it's just loads of fun!
Well, what can I say - it's just loads of fun!
February 13, 2015
Hidden Passion is a story of an emperor and a princess in distress whose state had to face defeat from this king.
The setting is king Devesh's kingdom where the passions erupt, amidst the power thus taking the reader on a journey of lust, anger, hatred and romance. What I commend is the author's thorough research on this topic, and writing an explicable story keeping the reader hooked to the plot while maintaining the background to be majestic.
I would recommend this book to anybody who is a fan of history since it is a combination of power and passion.
The setting is king Devesh's kingdom where the passions erupt, amidst the power thus taking the reader on a journey of lust, anger, hatred and romance. What I commend is the author's thorough research on this topic, and writing an explicable story keeping the reader hooked to the plot while maintaining the background to be majestic.
I would recommend this book to anybody who is a fan of history since it is a combination of power and passion.
June 30, 2016
Hidden Passion by Summerita Rhayne is a historical romance. It highlights the romance of princess Rukmini and King Devesh. This ebook talks about the passion that arises in both their hearts which they struggle to control and end up losing at that passion. The author has done a fabulous job in writing this ebook. While I was reading this piece I instantly fell in love with princess Rukmini, her boldness, her desires and the way she is fearless is remarkable.
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December 28, 2014
This story has warmth and passion and takes you on a journey of lives controlled by family and governed by duty. Two souls straining at the leash for freedom. An historical romance filled with yearning and discovery. Great character, setting and depth.
January 5, 2015
Summerita has come up with another riveting read! I loved the characters - Rukmani and Deveshwaraya, especially their vivid physical description -- drool worthy. The story too is very interesting and the historical details are fascinating. Great writing and hope to see more soon.
April 2, 2016
Not terrible for historical purposes but definitely terrible for the spoiled princess! She's so beautiful and changeable and though supposedly gets whatever she wants and can do anything, she cries like a child she doesn't get what she wants.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews