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Kingdoms & Crowns #1
Carrying the King's Pride
A marriage for the monarch
One last New York night with Sofia Ramirez is all Prince Nikandros Constantinides allowed himself before returning to Akathinia, after a dreadful accident took his brother's life. But before the royal rebel is crowned, Nik discovers that he didn't leave Sofia behind alone!
In a baby's heartbeat, Nik turns Sofia's world upside down and whisks her away to his Mediterranean kingdom. Dissolving a politically perfect engagement is not what Nik—or his country—had in mind, but this proud prince will do whatever it takes to legitimize his new rule…with a wife and child!
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186 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2016
67 people are currently reading
591 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Hayward
285 books219 followersJennifer Hayward has been a fan of romance since filching her sister’s novels to escape her teenage angst. Her career in journalism and PR, including years of working alongside powerful, charismatic CEOs and traveling the world, has provided perfect fodder for the fast-paced, sexy stories she likes to write—always with a touch of humor.
Since her debut in 2013, as the winner of Harlequin’s So You Think You Can Write global writing contest, she’s written over eighteen titles and sold over two million copies of her books to readers in 31 countries, in 25 languages. A native of Canada’s East Coast, Jennifer lives in picturesque Nova Scotia with her husband and son.
Since her debut in 2013, as the winner of Harlequin’s So You Think You Can Write global writing contest, she’s written over eighteen titles and sold over two million copies of her books to readers in 31 countries, in 25 languages. A native of Canada’s East Coast, Jennifer lives in picturesque Nova Scotia with her husband and son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
April 28, 2016
2.5 Stars
This was very meh...all around.
I didn't particularly like the H. Or the h. And I just wasn't feelin' the love.
This was very meh...all around.
I didn't particularly like the H. Or the h. And I just wasn't feelin' the love.
January 1, 2019
"Carrying the King's Pride" is the story Sofia and Nikandros.
Alas, the moment of regret arrived too soon in the new year, and for me it was picking up this terrible book.
The premise is simple: the h and H have a sexual relationship. He's a prince and she's an "independent" businesswoman. When she realizes her feelings might be getting involved and he's gonna dump her soon, she decides to break it off first- but not before having one last night of no-glove love.
She believes she's protected as she has been on pills, but her migraine meds interfere and boom- PREGGO!
On the other hand, as the hero's older brother dies in a tragic accident, the prodigal wild son has to now ascend the throne. But his spies find out that his ex is pregnant, and so he breaks it off with his inherited fiance aka 'the countess' to whisk the h away to his kingdom and force her to marry him.
Thus, 30% into the book we begin this painful journey of "discovery" between two selfish individuals. Lets call the hero wahhhh 1 (whiny 1) and the heroine wahhhh 2 (whiny 2).
The wahhhh 1's reasons to whine
-He is not ready for responsibilities, loves his playboy image and wild life and is so angry at his beloved brother for dying and leaving him to do all the difficult work
-His conniving bitch of an ex *cough* heroine *cough* has decided to manipulate him by getting pregnant and he's not ready to believe it was not planned
-How dare his father and kingdom have expectations from him- ITS STRESSFUL!!
-His ex should give him loads of sex, but she's not always in the mood and its bothering him
Wahhhh 2's reasons for distress
-Its so romantic when a guy who just used you for sex, ignores you throughout the book if not for banging, does not value your opinion, forces you to mold to his as well his kingdom's expectations, only cares about his baby, is ready to teach harsh truths but not take your opinion, kidnaps you away from your "independent and successful" life, has no feelings about your past sufferings etc etc- IS NOT READY TO ADMIT HIS LOVE! *insert intense whining and screeching noises*
There are many secondary plots- the whole kingdom snatching scheme, the heroine's designing career/hobby, the hero and his feelings, the heroine's love feelings- all things which will combine to give you a migraine. The resolution to all of the above is rushed and unsatisfactory.
Just because there are good lovemaking scenes, I cannot rate this book higher. Because for the latter,there are better options, believe me. And there was no anal too.
Safe
Negative rating.
1/5
Alas, the moment of regret arrived too soon in the new year, and for me it was picking up this terrible book.
The premise is simple: the h and H have a sexual relationship. He's a prince and she's an "independent" businesswoman. When she realizes her feelings might be getting involved and he's gonna dump her soon, she decides to break it off first- but not before having one last night of no-glove love.
She believes she's protected as she has been on pills, but her migraine meds interfere and boom- PREGGO!
On the other hand, as the hero's older brother dies in a tragic accident, the prodigal wild son has to now ascend the throne. But his spies find out that his ex is pregnant, and so he breaks it off with his inherited fiance aka 'the countess' to whisk the h away to his kingdom and force her to marry him.
Thus, 30% into the book we begin this painful journey of "discovery" between two selfish individuals. Lets call the hero wahhhh 1 (whiny 1) and the heroine wahhhh 2 (whiny 2).
The wahhhh 1's reasons to whine
-He is not ready for responsibilities, loves his playboy image and wild life and is so angry at his beloved brother for dying and leaving him to do all the difficult work
-His conniving bitch of an ex *cough* heroine *cough* has decided to manipulate him by getting pregnant and he's not ready to believe it was not planned
-How dare his father and kingdom have expectations from him- ITS STRESSFUL!!
-His ex should give him loads of sex, but she's not always in the mood and its bothering him
Wahhhh 2's reasons for distress
-Its so romantic when a guy who just used you for sex, ignores you throughout the book if not for banging, does not value your opinion, forces you to mold to his as well his kingdom's expectations, only cares about his baby, is ready to teach harsh truths but not take your opinion, kidnaps you away from your "independent and successful" life, has no feelings about your past sufferings etc etc- IS NOT READY TO ADMIT HIS LOVE! *insert intense whining and screeching noises*
There are many secondary plots- the whole kingdom snatching scheme, the heroine's designing career/hobby, the hero and his feelings, the heroine's love feelings- all things which will combine to give you a migraine. The resolution to all of the above is rushed and unsatisfactory.
Just because there are good lovemaking scenes, I cannot rate this book higher. Because for the latter,there are better options, believe me. And there was no anal too.
Safe
Negative rating.
1/5
January 12, 2024
לסקירה מפורטת בעברית, קישור לבלוג שלי -
https://sivi-the-avid-reader.com/גאוו...
https://sivi-the-avid-reader.com/גאוו...
March 27, 2017
I loved book three in this series (MARRYING HER ROYAL ENEMY) so much that I actually went out and ordered this book used from Amazon. I'm really glad I did!
Sofia Ramirez is such a sexy, modern heroine. I love the fact that she's a Latina, even though she's a fairly upscale Chilean rather than being a Dominican from the South Bronx. (The 4-0 Forever!) I also love that she's an independent working woman in modern New York City. The first few pages really reminded me of THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, a movie I adore and have seen hundreds of times! Sofia is starting to catch on as a fashion designer, and I love the way the author captures both the frantic pace and sheer glamour of the Manhattan lifestyle. (When a society hostess says "I bet you want off your freet" you can really picture the heels Sofia must be wearing!)
Anyway, because Sofia's plans are so real and her life so compelling, you can really believe it's a total catastrophe when her steaming hot fling with Nik results in pregnancy. I love the way the hero does the honorable thing, whisking her away to his Greek kingdom, so she can nest. But also so he can take the reigns of his small country at a critical time! So many astonishing things to point out here. The fact that Nik is just as believable as a NYC businessman as he is a prince. His relationship with his father, and the death of his older brother, is handled in much more and better detail than in most romance novels. Most of all, the Jennifer Hayward trademark is that Akathinia isn't a fairy tale kingdom . . . the author really describes the politics, the history, and the stakes are huge.
So now, the sex scenes in this book are unbelievably hot. I love the fact that Sofia is always in charge, even when she's moaning in Nik's arms. He tries to manipulate her through most of the book, using fabulous sex to make her accept a lesser role in his life now that he's a king. But she's having none of it! Sometimes Sofia's lectures were a little too long, but they really build up your respect for the character. And when Nik tries to distract her . . . wow!
It's interesting how this book is resolved. Sofia gets pregnant, and the author does an incredibly sexy and perceptive take on how the royal baby changes the political situation. But the real bottom line is how Nik comes to terms with the fact that Sofia can't be put away in a box . . .just like his feelings can't be boxed away inside his heart. The Black Moment in this romance is really touching just because it's not a misunderstanding. It's pretty much what Sofia has been telling Nik from day one. But after the political stress, and a really poignant scene with his father, he's finally ready to listen. I felt such a huge relief when these two got together at the end, like I'd been holding my breath for hours!
Jennifer Hayward is IMHO the brightest of the young stars at Harlequin Presents, right up there with the amazing Caitlin Crews. I can't wait to see what she does next!
Sofia Ramirez is such a sexy, modern heroine. I love the fact that she's a Latina, even though she's a fairly upscale Chilean rather than being a Dominican from the South Bronx. (The 4-0 Forever!) I also love that she's an independent working woman in modern New York City. The first few pages really reminded me of THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, a movie I adore and have seen hundreds of times! Sofia is starting to catch on as a fashion designer, and I love the way the author captures both the frantic pace and sheer glamour of the Manhattan lifestyle. (When a society hostess says "I bet you want off your freet" you can really picture the heels Sofia must be wearing!)
Anyway, because Sofia's plans are so real and her life so compelling, you can really believe it's a total catastrophe when her steaming hot fling with Nik results in pregnancy. I love the way the hero does the honorable thing, whisking her away to his Greek kingdom, so she can nest. But also so he can take the reigns of his small country at a critical time! So many astonishing things to point out here. The fact that Nik is just as believable as a NYC businessman as he is a prince. His relationship with his father, and the death of his older brother, is handled in much more and better detail than in most romance novels. Most of all, the Jennifer Hayward trademark is that Akathinia isn't a fairy tale kingdom . . . the author really describes the politics, the history, and the stakes are huge.
So now, the sex scenes in this book are unbelievably hot. I love the fact that Sofia is always in charge, even when she's moaning in Nik's arms. He tries to manipulate her through most of the book, using fabulous sex to make her accept a lesser role in his life now that he's a king. But she's having none of it! Sometimes Sofia's lectures were a little too long, but they really build up your respect for the character. And when Nik tries to distract her . . . wow!
It's interesting how this book is resolved. Sofia gets pregnant, and the author does an incredibly sexy and perceptive take on how the royal baby changes the political situation. But the real bottom line is how Nik comes to terms with the fact that Sofia can't be put away in a box . . .just like his feelings can't be boxed away inside his heart. The Black Moment in this romance is really touching just because it's not a misunderstanding. It's pretty much what Sofia has been telling Nik from day one. But after the political stress, and a really poignant scene with his father, he's finally ready to listen. I felt such a huge relief when these two got together at the end, like I'd been holding my breath for hours!
Jennifer Hayward is IMHO the brightest of the young stars at Harlequin Presents, right up there with the amazing Caitlin Crews. I can't wait to see what she does next!
January 26, 2016
This was yet another great book from Ms. Hayward.
I loved Sofia. She was strong and dedicated to making her career work, both before she got pregnant and after. She was driven and Ms. Hayward definitely made it clear just why she was so determined to succeed in her life. I liked her chosen career as a designer and how it worked into the life she tried making it after Nik drags her off to his island kingdom.
Nik - a bit of a jerk, but what self-respecting HP hero isn't? Add in he's a prince (king), and yeah - there's a recipe for arrogance right there. I enjoyed watching him grow over the course of the book. I didn't hold his suspicion against Sofia against him at all. He had very good reason for believing what he did and in the same situation (yeah, I wish), I'd probably have had the same situation, which plays into my reason (below) for not giving this book 5 stars.
There was no super bad-guy, just an ongoing feud with a neighboring island, and that worked for me. Yeah, there was some conflict from it, buuuut hey, it gave Nik the room he needed to grow, so yay conflict!
Overall, a solid entry by Ms. Hayward and I look forward to reading other books in this mini-series. See below for my spoiler-ish issue with the book.
I loved Sofia. She was strong and dedicated to making her career work, both before she got pregnant and after. She was driven and Ms. Hayward definitely made it clear just why she was so determined to succeed in her life. I liked her chosen career as a designer and how it worked into the life she tried making it after Nik drags her off to his island kingdom.
Nik - a bit of a jerk, but what self-respecting HP hero isn't? Add in he's a prince (king), and yeah - there's a recipe for arrogance right there. I enjoyed watching him grow over the course of the book. I didn't hold his suspicion against Sofia against him at all. He had very good reason for believing what he did and in the same situation (yeah, I wish), I'd probably have had the same situation, which plays into my reason (below) for not giving this book 5 stars.
There was no super bad-guy, just an ongoing feud with a neighboring island, and that worked for me. Yeah, there was some conflict from it, buuuut hey, it gave Nik the room he needed to grow, so yay conflict!
Overall, a solid entry by Ms. Hayward and I look forward to reading other books in this mini-series. See below for my spoiler-ish issue with the book.
March 9, 2016
Hayward has done it again! This fantastic novel held me from cover to cover, never letting go. Emotion and heartbreak shine through as readers get drawn into the world of the ruling elite. This well written, intricately plotted novel was just what I needed. Hayward writes emotion that pours from the pages of this novel as readers get drawn in to the fascinating world that she’s developed.
The characters that Hayward presents here truly take the story to the next level. I love how approachable these characters are. Sure they’re part of the upper echelon of society, but they are so human. Hayward develops their emotion in such a manner that I couldn’t help but fall for them. The in-depth manner in which we get to know them was fantastic. The way that I could fall in love with them without finding them the least bit perfect made them so endearing. These main characters were perfectly perfect for one another.
This novel has quickly become a top pick for me. I thoroughly enjoyed each and every second of it and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to others.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
The characters that Hayward presents here truly take the story to the next level. I love how approachable these characters are. Sure they’re part of the upper echelon of society, but they are so human. Hayward develops their emotion in such a manner that I couldn’t help but fall for them. The in-depth manner in which we get to know them was fantastic. The way that I could fall in love with them without finding them the least bit perfect made them so endearing. These main characters were perfectly perfect for one another.
This novel has quickly become a top pick for me. I thoroughly enjoyed each and every second of it and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to others.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2016
I loved this book until the end. You need a great finish for full satisfaction...and it didn't happen for me. I needed to see him prove himself, having let her down so badly after making her promises. After she took him to task and he realised he loved her and wanted a full relationship with her, he still didn't tell her or change his MO. There was absolutely no evidence that he would do things differently next crisis. He spent the next two weeks finishing up what he had started, therefore carrying on as if he didn't care while she was breaking her heart over it. He should have spent that time including her and confiding in her instead of continuing to ignore her. That would have been most satisfying. If you really love a person as he supposedly realised he did, you don't leave them to suffer. Her capitulation was disappointing also, after being such a strong, sensible, speak-your-mind heroine (which I loved).
Anyway - that was a plot issue. The writing was great and for most of the book I was immersed in a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Anyway - that was a plot issue. The writing was great and for most of the book I was immersed in a thoroughly enjoyable read.
February 16, 2016
Disclaimer: An arc was given to me on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE HAND…
This is a gentle reminder that Harlequin novels are for a unique type of readers. Under different series published by Harlequin, a certain type of story can be found. For example, if you go on the company’s website, they describe Harlequin Presents series as “You want alpha males, decadent glamour and jet-set lifestyles. Step into the sensational, sophisticated world of Harlequin Presents, where sinfully tempting heroes ignite a fierce and wickedly irresistible passion.” They also have series within a series such as “One Night with Consequences” which is basically a couple who has one night of hot white passion and then having repercussion’s of a baby.
With this being said, this book could fall under One Night with Consequences but it’s not because it’s actually book #1 in the new series “Kingdoms & Crowns” by Jennifer Hayward.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THE BOOK…
I liked how Sofia stood her ground despite Nik being such an asshole to her and accusing her of trapping him in a marriage for her own benefits. After finding out she was pregnant and being almost forced into a marriage, she refused to have sex with Nik unless he fully trusted her. Unless, he believed her when she said that she didn’t construct everything so that she gotten pregnant in the end. This was something admirable because there were so many books under Harlequin that have heroines who were weak. They kind of shuffled their way through their lives under the man’s orders. However, Sofia was different.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK…
Keep reading on my blog for the full review: https://remarkablylisa.wordpress.com/...
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE HAND…
This is a gentle reminder that Harlequin novels are for a unique type of readers. Under different series published by Harlequin, a certain type of story can be found. For example, if you go on the company’s website, they describe Harlequin Presents series as “You want alpha males, decadent glamour and jet-set lifestyles. Step into the sensational, sophisticated world of Harlequin Presents, where sinfully tempting heroes ignite a fierce and wickedly irresistible passion.” They also have series within a series such as “One Night with Consequences” which is basically a couple who has one night of hot white passion and then having repercussion’s of a baby.
With this being said, this book could fall under One Night with Consequences but it’s not because it’s actually book #1 in the new series “Kingdoms & Crowns” by Jennifer Hayward.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THE BOOK…
I liked how Sofia stood her ground despite Nik being such an asshole to her and accusing her of trapping him in a marriage for her own benefits. After finding out she was pregnant and being almost forced into a marriage, she refused to have sex with Nik unless he fully trusted her. Unless, he believed her when she said that she didn’t construct everything so that she gotten pregnant in the end. This was something admirable because there were so many books under Harlequin that have heroines who were weak. They kind of shuffled their way through their lives under the man’s orders. However, Sofia was different.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK…
Keep reading on my blog for the full review: https://remarkablylisa.wordpress.com/...
January 7, 2016
DNF 20%
I couldn't finish. For some reason the two main characters came across very cold and detached.
I couldn't finish. For some reason the two main characters came across very cold and detached.
January 27, 2016
If you’re looking for a steamy romance novel that is laden with sizzling sexual chemistry, power, high-octane drama, bold yet flawed characters and defying rivalries between royal families then pick up the first book in Jennifer Hayward’s Kingdoms and Crowns trilogy for Harlequin Presents!
After Prince Nikandros Constantinides is dumped by his lover Sofia Ramirez, they share one last night, one hot, hot night in each other’s arms and then they part ways for good or so they both think. After his break up, however, Nik is shocked with the ill-fate befallen on his family with the life-changing news his personal aide, Abram delivers to him. The crown prince, his brother was dead and his father had taken to bed after a heart attack due to his brother’s death. Now thrust into the role as king after his brother’s funeral, it is now up to Nik to take the reign of his tiny country and move it forward…eschewing the threat of war from neighboring Carnelia. Nik would even marry the Countess of Agiero to secure his country’s stability except destiny had its own plans for him. When Nik discovers Sofia carries the heir to his throne, his plans change and he only sees it fit to make Sofia his queen. It is from here on which makes this story interesting. It is the emotional battle between Sofia and Nik to do what’s right for their child and Nik’s struggle to protect his country, which unravels the plot and keeps you turning the pages... Overall, this is a fabulous new book by a talented author whose intricate storytelling brings out the best in her characters. So if you haven’t read a Jennifer Hayward novel yet then pick up this book, curl up in a comfy chair and prepare to be mesmerized!
Highly Recommended
5 Stars
August 4, 2016
This book reminded me how fabulous a Harlequin romance can be. I am delighted that this is the first book in the Kingdoms & Crowns series, because I am looking forward to reading the others. Carrying The King's Pride involves royalty and a kingdom by the sea, which are two of my favorite elements for stories. Aside from appealing to my personal tastes for these elements, Jennifer Hayward has crafted an intelligent and well-paced fulfilling story.
This book has lots of heat with passionate descriptive encounters. The hero is everything one would hope a king would be, sexy, smart, strong, and decent. The heroine, who is a New York fashion designer and not royalty, shares those characteristics. It is supremely satisfying as a reader to experience them dealing with their difficulties and reaching their happy ending. The epilogue was particularly good.
I particularly enjoyed being able to vicariously experience the lavish lifestyle and settings. There were helicopter rides, royal parties, a private island getaway with a cerulean blue sea and white sand beaches. Despite the glamorous backdrop, the main characters Nik and Sofia were believable, relatable, and likeable. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book for a pleasant and satisfying escape.
This book has lots of heat with passionate descriptive encounters. The hero is everything one would hope a king would be, sexy, smart, strong, and decent. The heroine, who is a New York fashion designer and not royalty, shares those characteristics. It is supremely satisfying as a reader to experience them dealing with their difficulties and reaching their happy ending. The epilogue was particularly good.
I particularly enjoyed being able to vicariously experience the lavish lifestyle and settings. There were helicopter rides, royal parties, a private island getaway with a cerulean blue sea and white sand beaches. Despite the glamorous backdrop, the main characters Nik and Sofia were believable, relatable, and likeable. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book for a pleasant and satisfying escape.
January 21, 2016
CARRYING THE KING’S PRIDE by author Jennifer Hayward is Harlequin Presents release for March 2016.
King Nikandros found out his brother had perished in an accident and all of a sudden he was the king now. Then he got informed that his lover, Sofia Ramirez was pregnant. There was no doubt that the baby was his. But could he get Sofia to agree to be his Queen?
Sofia, scared that her feelings for Nik was getting deeper, broke off her relationship with him. But now she was pregnant and alone. Dare she let the king know that she was carrying his heir?
Could she be what Nik wanted? And marry him for the sake of her baby? Would Nik ever love her for herself?
CARRYING THE KING’S PRIDE is an intriguing romance with off the charts chemistry between Nik and Sofia. Author Jennifer Hayward has her unique way of spellbinding her readers and keeping them engrossed in the story till the very last page.
Highly recommended for all readers of romance.
King Nikandros found out his brother had perished in an accident and all of a sudden he was the king now. Then he got informed that his lover, Sofia Ramirez was pregnant. There was no doubt that the baby was his. But could he get Sofia to agree to be his Queen?
Sofia, scared that her feelings for Nik was getting deeper, broke off her relationship with him. But now she was pregnant and alone. Dare she let the king know that she was carrying his heir?
Could she be what Nik wanted? And marry him for the sake of her baby? Would Nik ever love her for herself?
CARRYING THE KING’S PRIDE is an intriguing romance with off the charts chemistry between Nik and Sofia. Author Jennifer Hayward has her unique way of spellbinding her readers and keeping them engrossed in the story till the very last page.
Highly recommended for all readers of romance.
July 5, 2025
"2 out of 5 stars. On the night that Sofia decides to call it quits with Nik (Nikandros) .... she ends up pregnant, and Nik's older brother dies, which in turn makes him next in line to become King. Then, because of his father's health, he seems to become King (a role he was never supposed to have) overnight. Though, when he learns of Sofia's pregnancy, it feels as though life goes from bad to worse. Sofia wants/needs trust and love in her life for their relationship to work .... will Nik be able to give that to her?
I wish I could've liked this novel more, but I just couldn't. I struggled with it..."
Read more of this review and a TEASER here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nyyjlI1RoWvgkg238roWxJgK6Yr6X18s/view?usp=drive_link
I wish I could've liked this novel more, but I just couldn't. I struggled with it..."
Read more of this review and a TEASER here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nyyjlI1RoWvgkg238roWxJgK6Yr6X18s/view?usp=drive_link
November 8, 2017
***3.25 Stars***
This was a pretty fair book but I have to say upfront that it was repetitive and moved slowly in quite a few places. I loved the heroine but the hero was a bit questionable for my taste.
They had been seeing each other in New York for a couple of months secretly. This was agreed upon as a sex-only fling with a forthcoming expiration date so when our heroine, Sofia, begins to have deeper feelings she calls off their fling and has one last night with Nik. Nik is taken aback because no woman has ever broken it off with him before. He was the one who did the leaving. That same night he is called home to his country because his brother, heir to the throne, has just died in an accident. Nik, the spare, is to be the new king. He heads home abruptly and within a few weeks in engaged to the woman who had been chosen for his brother. This was not a match he wanted. If he had his way he would remain a forever bachelor.
He has a contact in NY who he has keeping an eye on Sophia and the paparazzi was creating an awful stir because someone had captured Nik and Sophia leaving a party together. They are making her life almost unlivable. Nik receives a phone call from his source telling him that there is a development and Sophia is pregnant. He steals away three days later to confront her and trick her into coming to his country promising her he would take her back to NY after they worked out arrangements for them and their child. He is nasty to her, accuses her of trapping him with the pregnancy. He then refuses to let her travel back to the US and says he can hold her in his country indefinitely since he is the king and has final say so. I felt horribly bad for Sophia. She has just build up her new-ish clothing design business and has her life the way she wants it and now has to give everything up. Is forced to give up everything.
In these Harlequin Presents the males are so major Alpha and it is so over-the-top that it isn't realistic nor is it believable. Did they work things out...of course, at the typical 95% mark, a very short epilogue and 'The End.'
Was it worth my time...I am still pondering that but I will say that don't intend to continue reading this series.
This was a pretty fair book but I have to say upfront that it was repetitive and moved slowly in quite a few places. I loved the heroine but the hero was a bit questionable for my taste.
They had been seeing each other in New York for a couple of months secretly. This was agreed upon as a sex-only fling with a forthcoming expiration date so when our heroine, Sofia, begins to have deeper feelings she calls off their fling and has one last night with Nik. Nik is taken aback because no woman has ever broken it off with him before. He was the one who did the leaving. That same night he is called home to his country because his brother, heir to the throne, has just died in an accident. Nik, the spare, is to be the new king. He heads home abruptly and within a few weeks in engaged to the woman who had been chosen for his brother. This was not a match he wanted. If he had his way he would remain a forever bachelor.
He has a contact in NY who he has keeping an eye on Sophia and the paparazzi was creating an awful stir because someone had captured Nik and Sophia leaving a party together. They are making her life almost unlivable. Nik receives a phone call from his source telling him that there is a development and Sophia is pregnant. He steals away three days later to confront her and trick her into coming to his country promising her he would take her back to NY after they worked out arrangements for them and their child. He is nasty to her, accuses her of trapping him with the pregnancy. He then refuses to let her travel back to the US and says he can hold her in his country indefinitely since he is the king and has final say so. I felt horribly bad for Sophia. She has just build up her new-ish clothing design business and has her life the way she wants it and now has to give everything up. Is forced to give up everything.
In these Harlequin Presents the males are so major Alpha and it is so over-the-top that it isn't realistic nor is it believable. Did they work things out...of course, at the typical 95% mark, a very short epilogue and 'The End.'
Was it worth my time...I am still pondering that but I will say that don't intend to continue reading this series.
February 13, 2016
This is the first book of a three part series called Kingdoms and crowns and what fantastic start. Sofia Ramirez is having an affair with Prince Nikandros Constantinides, but she knows his relationships have an end by date. She is falling in love with him, so decides to protect herself from the hurt of him leaving her so makes the decision to end it herself. Sounds like a good idea until they end up in bed together for one last time. Sofia doesn't know that soon after their last night, Nikandros is called home to Akathinia to rule as his brother, who was to be the next in line for the throne, is killed in an accident and his father the King has collapsed from the news . So you figure he goes home and becomes King and Sofia goes her way. However if you have never read Jennifer Hayward you should because she writes fantastic stories and if you think this is one of those that have them having one last night, she gets pregnant and they are forced to marry for the child and so that's the end. That is not happening and you are wrong because, she writes a heartfelt story about a man who is emotionally destroyed by his brothers death a country in crisis, that he must secure as well as take care of a women who is pregnant and carrying a future heir and at the same time , deal with all the road blocks that can make or break a future king . Ms. Hayward always has such a way with words that one will always stand out and make the reader smile. When Sofia wants to feel she is a part of Nik's life she takes you on a journey with the future King who fears that she deliberately got pregnant to capture him, and a headstrong woman who he wants to come to his country , marry and raise their child and continue as they were. Sofia wants to feel she is a part of his life and will not continue as they were until they truly understand each other and what each wants. Nik's question "Define understand" is just the beginning a fantastic journey, with this book. Loved it and can hardly wait to read the next two. Would give it more than 5 stars if I could.
February 21, 2016
I really enjoy MS Hayward's stories and this one was no exception a fabulous story with a beautiful setting and royalty and a future heir to the Kingdom of Akathina a small island in the Mediterranean Sea.
Nikandros Constantinides is a royal Prince but he lives and works in New York his older brother is heir and Nik is brilliant with numbers he loves his playboy lifestyle he has had lots of woman in his life but nothing permanent and that is the way he wants it his new woman is designer and boutique owner Sofia Ramirez a beautiful woman strong and gorgeous and so far they have managed to keep their affair secret, but in time Nik will end it like he normally does and move on.
Sofia is enjoying her affair with Nik but she feels that the time has come to end it before she gets too close to this man they sizzle together sensually they get on well but both know that nothing can be permanent but when Sofia decides that this will be their last night the passion flares as they become one but there are consequences a baby and with Nik then getting news of his brother's death life changes very quickly for both.
This is a story that will have you turning the pages as Nik and Sofia journey to a HEA that is filled with emotional ups and downs and Sofia coaxes Nik to open up about his past and his relationship with his father the turmoil that comes with becoming King and running a country convincing Sofia to marry him and a baby on the way. They know they are sensually drawn to each other but Sofia wants more she wants emotional commitment and time and love from Nik for herself and their baby is she strong enough to bring Nik around?
I loved this story and highly recommend it you will be smiling throughout and there will be more in this story line Kingdoms and Crowns that I look forward to.
Nikandros Constantinides is a royal Prince but he lives and works in New York his older brother is heir and Nik is brilliant with numbers he loves his playboy lifestyle he has had lots of woman in his life but nothing permanent and that is the way he wants it his new woman is designer and boutique owner Sofia Ramirez a beautiful woman strong and gorgeous and so far they have managed to keep their affair secret, but in time Nik will end it like he normally does and move on.
Sofia is enjoying her affair with Nik but she feels that the time has come to end it before she gets too close to this man they sizzle together sensually they get on well but both know that nothing can be permanent but when Sofia decides that this will be their last night the passion flares as they become one but there are consequences a baby and with Nik then getting news of his brother's death life changes very quickly for both.
This is a story that will have you turning the pages as Nik and Sofia journey to a HEA that is filled with emotional ups and downs and Sofia coaxes Nik to open up about his past and his relationship with his father the turmoil that comes with becoming King and running a country convincing Sofia to marry him and a baby on the way. They know they are sensually drawn to each other but Sofia wants more she wants emotional commitment and time and love from Nik for herself and their baby is she strong enough to bring Nik around?
I loved this story and highly recommend it you will be smiling throughout and there will be more in this story line Kingdoms and Crowns that I look forward to.
December 28, 2015
Sofia and Nik agreed their relationship would only last until it ran its course. It was not meant to be permanent. Sofia begins to have more feelings for Nik and decides it is time to walk away before she develops more feelings. Nik is not used to anyone walking away from him first but, he has duties back in his Mediterraneound country that require him to be there instead of New York. But, while he is gone he has his assistant keeping track of Sofia to ensure she is handling the break up well. What he finds is that she is pregnant with the heir to his country while he is trying to handle a myriad of problems that are occurring in his country that also may involve him marrying a royal from another country. Carrying The King's Pride has something going for it that made me really like this book. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for review. I can honestly say more than the romance what I liked most about this story is how it dealt with loss. Both Sofia and Nik were handling the loss of a beloved family member, one very recent and the other loss, many years ago. But, what the story shows the reader is that sometimes the loss that is older is felt just as keenly as the more recent loss. It also shows how differently we all handle the loss to be able to move forward in our lives. It does a great job of showing how children handle loss and how it moves with them throughout life in addition to how it affects the relationships of family members that are left behind. I have loved every Jennifer Hayward book I have read and this one continues that winning streak.
July 11, 2016
Was totally hooked by the page one where we meet Sofia, being brave enough to know she needs to leave her current lover Nik, she’s getting attached and she knows that breaks all the rules. And break up they do which is all well and good until Nik’s security detail reveals to him she’s preganant!
Nik isn’t any ordinary person, he’s Prince Nikandros Constantinides of Akathinia. A tragic accident claims the life of his brother and he’s forced to go back home where he’s then made King because of his father’s poor health. Nik struggles with this, this wasn’t in the plan, he wasn’t raised to be king… he belongs in New York where he shines at what he does. Finding out about Sofia he knows what he has to do – bring her back and make Sofia Queen and have his country’s heir grow up as one of his own.
And they all lived happy ever after! Ha hah, no no no, Nik’s country is upset by neighboring war which is threatening and Nik’s also upset the family and the countess the family said he had to marry. No way, not now that Sofia is pregnant. And Sofia, well the last thing she wants to be is Queen of anything except her emerging fashion line.
A wonderfully told tale of two strong and likeable characters and a true testimony of Jennifer Hayward's wonderful tale telling which I absolutely adore. I love how the story takes me away to a wonderful world and I like how the beginning was so unique. You never read stories where the heroine marches in and insists on breaking up. I absolutely loved the concept.
Well loved and I'm looking forward to the future installments.
Nik isn’t any ordinary person, he’s Prince Nikandros Constantinides of Akathinia. A tragic accident claims the life of his brother and he’s forced to go back home where he’s then made King because of his father’s poor health. Nik struggles with this, this wasn’t in the plan, he wasn’t raised to be king… he belongs in New York where he shines at what he does. Finding out about Sofia he knows what he has to do – bring her back and make Sofia Queen and have his country’s heir grow up as one of his own.
And they all lived happy ever after! Ha hah, no no no, Nik’s country is upset by neighboring war which is threatening and Nik’s also upset the family and the countess the family said he had to marry. No way, not now that Sofia is pregnant. And Sofia, well the last thing she wants to be is Queen of anything except her emerging fashion line.
A wonderfully told tale of two strong and likeable characters and a true testimony of Jennifer Hayward's wonderful tale telling which I absolutely adore. I love how the story takes me away to a wonderful world and I like how the beginning was so unique. You never read stories where the heroine marches in and insists on breaking up. I absolutely loved the concept.
Well loved and I'm looking forward to the future installments.
July 31, 2016
4 1/2 STARS!
Royalty at it’s finest! Royal scandals, family discord, kingdom feuds, impetuous flings, and an innocent babe on the way!
Manhattan fashion boutique owner Sofia Ramirez enjoyed her fling with Prince Nikandros Constantinides of Akathinia, but decided it was time to walk away before she became too attached. After one last night together, Nik discovered his brother had been killed in a horrible accident and returned home to his Mediterranean island.
Nik never expected to be King, but now that his brother is gone and his father is ill and ready to step down, that is exactly what happens. He finds out that he is set to wed for political gain, but when he hears that Sofia is pregnant, he immediately returns to Manhattan and fetches her to his home instead to become his wife and give him his heir.
Will Nik be able to bring peace to his Kingdom against strong adversaries? And will Sofia be able to get through to him and bring down his walls to make theirs a relationship that will last?
Royalty at it’s finest! Royal scandals, family discord, kingdom feuds, impetuous flings, and an innocent babe on the way!
Manhattan fashion boutique owner Sofia Ramirez enjoyed her fling with Prince Nikandros Constantinides of Akathinia, but decided it was time to walk away before she became too attached. After one last night together, Nik discovered his brother had been killed in a horrible accident and returned home to his Mediterranean island.
Nik never expected to be King, but now that his brother is gone and his father is ill and ready to step down, that is exactly what happens. He finds out that he is set to wed for political gain, but when he hears that Sofia is pregnant, he immediately returns to Manhattan and fetches her to his home instead to become his wife and give him his heir.
Will Nik be able to bring peace to his Kingdom against strong adversaries? And will Sofia be able to get through to him and bring down his walls to make theirs a relationship that will last?
January 16, 2016
Nik and Sofia's affair does not have a long life. at least that is what they know. Fate, however decrees something else altogether.
With a baby on the way all plans rush out the window with the future of the Kingdom changed drastically.
Though, for the baby, both Nik and Sofia re ready to settle down but at the cost of their own happiness.
Bought up a certain way, Nik can't let his heart rule over his head and had to keep Sofia at a distance as he sees her as a distraction when he has a kingdom to run. While Sofia is dying a little inside everyday from the coldness she senses emanating from her betrothed and the father of her baby.
Filled with angst and killing the desires of the heart for the most part, this is a story of to people who finally learn of what really is important in life and once someone has that settled, all else follows.
With a baby on the way all plans rush out the window with the future of the Kingdom changed drastically.
Though, for the baby, both Nik and Sofia re ready to settle down but at the cost of their own happiness.
Bought up a certain way, Nik can't let his heart rule over his head and had to keep Sofia at a distance as he sees her as a distraction when he has a kingdom to run. While Sofia is dying a little inside everyday from the coldness she senses emanating from her betrothed and the father of her baby.
Filled with angst and killing the desires of the heart for the most part, this is a story of to people who finally learn of what really is important in life and once someone has that settled, all else follows.
January 22, 2022
Riveting Read
The story was real as the plot and the characters mirrored real life. The characters demonstrated real and realistic emotions. Life is filled with choices. Sofia and Nik made choices that were understandable and made them human and humane. Both Nik and Sofia were strong yet vulnerable. Their vulnerability was empowering. Grief is multifaceted and how we deal with it is personal and dependent on many factors such as our past experiences. The strength of Nik and Sofia lay in their going beyond the surface and being honest with each other. Jennifer Hayward invites us to be multisensorily supportive in implicit and explicit ways. She invites us to examine our socialisation, our parenting skills, family values and our essence of being- a multidimensional analysis of the facets of love.
The story was real as the plot and the characters mirrored real life. The characters demonstrated real and realistic emotions. Life is filled with choices. Sofia and Nik made choices that were understandable and made them human and humane. Both Nik and Sofia were strong yet vulnerable. Their vulnerability was empowering. Grief is multifaceted and how we deal with it is personal and dependent on many factors such as our past experiences. The strength of Nik and Sofia lay in their going beyond the surface and being honest with each other. Jennifer Hayward invites us to be multisensorily supportive in implicit and explicit ways. She invites us to examine our socialisation, our parenting skills, family values and our essence of being- a multidimensional analysis of the facets of love.
March 3, 2016
Even though Carrying the King's Pride is a short (50,000 word) story, Jennifer Hayward manages to deliver a wonderfully layered plot while keeping her focus on Nik and Sophia – and their mutual support amid the story’s developing machinations. This is a story jam-packed with many emotions – stress, mistrust, caution, sadness and ultimately a terrific HEA. Sophia is a successful, independent American businesswoman who is a great match for this Mediterranean Prince. In Nik and Sophia we have characters who have each other’s back – always – even as they question their relationship and its future.
December 24, 2015
Nik is about the simple pleasures in life, “you want to skip the walk, glykeia mou?” His gaze speared hers, all leashed testosterone. “I am all about a morning nap.” He doesn't ask for much, "he ran a finger down her cheek. “I want you on top of me, riding me, until there’s nothing left in me. And then ,” he added deliberately, “you can do it again.” I liked this book Nik could be a little hot headed at times but he was one sexy man.
Read
March 23, 2016"A compelling storyline with skillful characterization makes for a great read. Both Sofia and Nik are quite well drawn" (4 1/2 stars TOP PICK! @ RT Book Reviews).
Miniseries: Kingdoms & Crowns
Miniseries: Kingdoms & Crowns
Read
March 1, 2016received 4 1/2 stars TOP PICK! @ RT Book Reviews
Miniseries: Kingdoms & Crowns
Miniseries: Kingdoms & Crowns
March 9, 2016
***Review to come. :)****
May 15, 2020
I really enjoyed this story! The royal escape I needed.
June 8, 2017
This was an interesting start to a new series by Ms. Hayward. These two characters had issues that they needed to sort out in order for them to build a family. Sofia loved Prince Nikandros but the way he went about it in the beginning was not right. He just took her as if she didn’t have a choice and opinion. She knew that he needed to know that she was having his child but in my opinion she was still in shock. He didn’t give her time to process anything before she was whisked away to a different country. Prince Nikandros also needed to process the death of his brother and how now he was going to be crowned King. Sure that was not the plan but that was his duty now. I loved how Sofia gave him great advice but only he knew if he was going to follow it. They both need to be strong for what is to come in order for them to get their happily ever after.
Carrying the King’s Pride was a great read. I loved the characters and they were well developed. The chemistry between both Prince Nikandros and Sofia was passionate it was sensual. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
Carrying the King’s Pride was a great read. I loved the characters and they were well developed. The chemistry between both Prince Nikandros and Sofia was passionate it was sensual. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
February 21, 2018
Carrying the King's Pride
The first of three books. The story opens with her leaving him. She has felt shut out from him for sometime now. After their last night he is called home. His brother is missing and feared dead. He now must take over. He just marry to secure his homeland. But just before he can do that he gets word that she is pregnant. Can two people who are not in the same league become more to each other. Just because of the baby? With tensions between his country and another can he let himself trust her!
The first of three books. The story opens with her leaving him. She has felt shut out from him for sometime now. After their last night he is called home. His brother is missing and feared dead. He now must take over. He just marry to secure his homeland. But just before he can do that he gets word that she is pregnant. Can two people who are not in the same league become more to each other. Just because of the baby? With tensions between his country and another can he let himself trust her!
June 29, 2024
I received an evaluation copy of this book by the author through a giveaway.
So, this is really not my cup of tea. Having said that, I found an interesting story and a rich style. A couple of things did not go as I thought, in fact they did not go anywhere; maybe they were going to be developed in the next books of the series.
In conclusion, it was the perfect summer book, to read at the seaside. The political plot made the story more interesting.
So, this is really not my cup of tea. Having said that, I found an interesting story and a rich style. A couple of things did not go as I thought, in fact they did not go anywhere; maybe they were going to be developed in the next books of the series.
In conclusion, it was the perfect summer book, to read at the seaside. The political plot made the story more interesting.
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