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Spellbound Falls #7

From Kiss to Queen

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A new romance from the New York Times bestselling author of the Spellbound Falls novels...

Jane Abbott knows that she's nobody special, so instead of looking for romance she's hunting partridge in the Maine woods when a plane crashes into a nearby pond. Diving in to save the pilot, Jane instinctively gives him air by way of a lifesaving kiss, and leads him to safety through a barrage of gunfire. 

The handsome stranger returns the favor by kidnapping her.

Clearly no ordinary man, and insisting Jane's life is in danger, Mark spirits his stubborn guardian angel to an aircraft carrier in the Atlantic Ocean. Only then does she discover that the mysterious Mark is actually Prince Markov Lakeland. 

Soon to be crowned king of the young country of Shelikova, can Mark persuade Jane that she has what it takes to be his queen?

385 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published July 5, 2016

144 people are currently reading
1216 people want to read

About the author

Janet Chapman

28 books1,114 followers
January 22, 1956 – October 28, 2017

Hey guys its Jessica. Sorry I’ve been MIA for so long. I apologize for the long overdue wait for Janet’s next book. You’ve all been very patient and loyal fans that she loves. She has been working on this book over the last year and a half while dealing with her battle with cancer. It saddens me to say that she peacefully lost this battle this past weekend while her family was by her side. I apologize if this feels sudden, she was a very private person even to her family. And she truly thought of all of you as her family. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.

Janet Chapman is the author of twenty-two contemporary and magical romance novels, all of which are set in her beautiful state of Maine. She lives in a cozy log home on a beautiful lake with her husband, surrounded by an eclectic assortment of wildlife that she finds both entertaining and inspiring. Probably best known for her Highlander Series (a saga of twelfth century warriors rebuilding their clans in modern-day Maine that now spans three generations), Janet also has two spin-off magical series (Midnight Bay & Spellbound Falls) and several contemporary family series set on the coast and in the mountains. With over three million books printed in six languages, her stories regularly appear on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller’s lists.

When she’s not writing (well, when she should to be writing but isn’t), Janet and her husband are traveling the state in their camper throughout all four seasons; hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and generally rubbing elbows with Mother Nature while always keeping an eye out for colorful new characters—human and beast—to put in her stories.

author's obituary

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
Profile Image for BookLover.
387 reviews77 followers
May 28, 2017
It’s hard to describe how I feel when reading a Janet Chapman book. The worlds she creates in her stories really resonate with me and when I sit down to immerse myself in one of her stories, it’s like I’m transported. Everything seems so vivid and bright in my mind. I loved loved loved this newest book from Janet Chapman.

Jane Abbott may be my favourite Chapman heroine yet. I found myself constantly grinning throughout this book. Jane was such an endearing character. It was clear, with each interaction she had with someone, that she was beloved, despite not realizing how truly special she was. Jane saved the life of Mark, having no clue she had just changed the very course of her life. Mark, very old fashioned and with a secret royal background, should not have been so drawn to Jane, the independent loner. As they say, though, opposites attract.

I found myself laughing constantly at Mark losing his temper at Jane (while smiling inwardly at her) and her obliviousness to it all. Every time his face twitched, I giggled at Jane’s reaction, which was never what Mark was expecting. Though Mark kept the fact he was a prince from Jane, she, too, had her own secrets about her past.

“only to snap open his eyes when he suddenly remembered something she’d said.
What in hell had she meant that he didn’t know her whole name, either?”


So what did the prince, eager to keep his soon-to-be (though she doesn’t realize it yet) princess safe from danger? He kidnapped her, of course. Blunder after mistake after mis-step finally lead them to his home, Shelkova, with a very reluctant, injured, Jane in tow. And if possible, I started loving the story even more with he introduction of Mark’s father, his three brothers and aunt.

“Or are you anxious to face my four disgruntled sons?”
“You’re not old. Your Highness,” she tacked on. “And your disgruntled sons don’t scare me.” She frowned. “Four?”
Reynard Lakeland laughed. “Once those poor, unsuspecting boys decided you weren’t coming out, they ran to Mark with tales of an angel who had flown away on ungrateful wings.”


Reynard, Mark’s dad, was such a great character. He really was a father figure to Jane, intent on making her realize she belonged with them. He brought her out of her shell enough to leave her room and start interacting with family.

“No. You are well enough to sit with us tonight. We have some guests from Europe; a businessman has brought his daughter to visit in hopes of catching the eye of the new king of Shelkova,” he explained, looking for some reaction—which he certainly got. Jane Abbot exposed her thoughts in a telling, ferocious scowl.”


This story was perfect. I loved the tie in to the Pine Creek series and Gunnar Wolfe was an unexpected surprise in this story. I couldn’t have anticipated the way the story went and Gunnar was definitely a favourite part for me. I especially liked how this story leads directly into the next Spellbound Falls book which I am now anxiously waiting for!

Fantastic! Storytelling at it’s best.
Profile Image for Lover of Romance.
3,724 reviews1,129 followers
July 7, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance My Review Updated
Summary
Jane Abbot has always thought of herself as less than average, no one of importance, just a normal human being. While in Maine, out hunting in the woods a plane is shot down and she saves the life of a mysterious man, Mark. A man who has enemies, is injured and needs his guardian angel. While on the run and hiding from his enemies, Jane and Mark help each other to safety. Mark is a prince, the heir to the throne and he has enemies due to certain politics of his country. While out in America, on a mission for his country and himself, he is being hunted down. He knows he can't leave Jane to suffer a worst fate, and leave her in the states. So he does what any man would do, put her over his shoulder for her own protection. Jane is spirited and has her own mind but not when it comes to safety. She learns the true identity of Mark, and that he wants her and not just for one night but for forever. But Jane is stubborn and strong willed and will fight him every step of the way....because she doesn't she how she could be worthy of Mark or the title "Queen". But love has a way of changing views and theories about ones self.
The Hero
Mark, is the heir and oldest of four boys from his father. His mother passed away five years previous, and with his father's health in a dangerous position, he is named successor to their small but richly cultured country. Mark does what needs to be done, he makes friends and enemies along the way. He was sent to the states, to find a wife just life his father fell in love with an American woman and became a great queen. What Mark doesn't expect is to find his future queen to be his guardian angel and a pain in his backside. She is wild and untamed and doesn't obey any command he gives her. Mark is used to having his own way, and being obeyed in all things. I loved this hero to pieces, he may seem a bit overbearing at times, but I don't blame him. He has a alpha type personality, so he is bound to have a few rough edges. What makes this hero so wonderful is the way he learns to adapt to new situations and still be kind and considerate when he needs to be. He isn't an ass, or rude (most of the time), he likes to take charge but he also is mindful and very respectful of others. I liked his well rounded personality and he made the perfect match for the heroine here.
The Heroine
Jane Abbot doesn't know where she truly comes from. She was abandoned at birth, suffered an ankle injury when she was a child and has suffered from a limp ever since. She was raised by nuns (hence the last name), then adopted by a family in Spellbound Falls. She loves the wilds and peace of Maine, she lives to hunt with her trusty rifle at her side. Jane is very unconventional and I liked that about her. She has low self esteem in some areas but she was so real in this story. I definitely could relate with her on many fronts. She loves to help others and when there are men or women in need, she is the first person to step up and help or bring about change. She takes on the roles that come at her with flying colors. She doens't believe she is Queen material, but she handles the role so perfectly. She wins over Mark and his delightful family, and the people of their country fall in line. What makes this heroine so easy to relate with is her compassion and sweet but very independent nature.
Plot and Story Line
From Kiss To Queen is the first in a new series from Janet Chapman. Although, this series is loosely connected to her Spellbound Falls series. I will admit that I was a bit nervous about this one before picking it up. Because the past few books I have read from Chapman, were as engaging and didn't seem to have her writing voice that I once fell in love with. But BAM----that has totally changed folks. I just couldn't put this one down, I fell in love with every moment and adventure these two go on. The first half is a bit of a "on the road" type theme. I really liked how in the beginning Jane is the lifesaver of the story. She rescues our hero and for a while, since he is injured she takes charge and I LOVED that. Despite her inner reservation about her self esteem, she still has confidence and courage. She has a gun or should I say a arsenal of guns and she isn't afraid of using them hehe Now our hero, is pure alpha male but not an ass or a jerk....he definitely has some many good moments. But when Jane gets a bit too stubborn or risks herself he takes charge of her when he needs to. These two have fireworks and their bantering is hilarious!!! When Jane realizes the truth of Mark and who he is and what he wants from her...well she definitely has a temper. But I like how she admits her mistakes. Now Mark's family is simply fantastic!!! They totally rocked in this story. They immediately take to Jane and fall in love with her. Part of it is due to the fact that she is very similar to their mother. Mark's father is a rascal and a charmer. The brothers....well they are quite charming and just like their father in many ways. We also get hints for the next book which involves Mark's friend (who helps Jane in the story) and Jane's best friend from Spellbound Falls. (which I am SUPER excited about) I think I loved the way these two fall in love with each other, and the character growth we see most especially in Jane's character. Quite fun with this new set of characters and I am eager to see what awaits us in the future with this new series of Chapman's.
The Cover
What a cute and picturesque cover this is!! I love this beautiful woodsy backdrop,
Overall View
From Kiss To Queen is a story you don't want to miss out, whether your an old favorite of this author or brand new---this is a book for you!! Its charming, adventurous, and packed with laughs and fun times!!

About The Author Updated

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Profile Image for Carolyn.
2,233 reviews
May 26, 2020
Re-read.

Original Review: Janet Chapman has been an automatic buy for me since her very first book. I have never been disappointed. I love her writing. Her stories, as she states, always has a touch of magic to them. For, if you take a moment, you can see a little magic everyday in the simple things that add a bit of joy to our lives.

I loved this book. It was absolutely adorable. Plain Jane Doe Abbott was priceless. Her "prince" had the character that most women dream about. Oh, a fantasy for certain, but what a lovely fantasy! I loved the set up to the next book as well and I can't wait to read it. Oh yeah, this one is a keeper!
Profile Image for Lyndi W..
2,042 reviews210 followers
d-n-f
August 18, 2016
Jesus Christ, this woman. I'd almost DNF'd this a few times now, but there would be a great bit of bantering that had me laughing out loud, so I ended up continuing on until like 50%. Now I'm done with trying.

Jane. Fucking Jane. A total Mary Sue with the biggest, most bonkers inferiority complex I've ever seen. It's tedious and it's so extreme that it's far from believable. She is just shy of throwing herself off a cliff to rid the world of her tainted presence. I'm not kidding, this woman fucking haaates herself. Every single person she's spoken to has called her "beautiful", but she's still like "Look at my awful face! You could never want to look at this face for longer than necessary, so I'm going home!" And being an orphan is apparently worse than being infected with a fatal and highly contagious disease. She's just constantly denigrating herself and pointing out how worthless she is.

I'm also kinda annoyed with her "holy geez" "oh my" "sweet heavens" brand of cursing. Because there've been like 4 situations so far that deserve a "motherfucker" or a "god damn". Also, this is very obviously an adult book, but Jane comes across as about as sexually aware as a 14 year old. It's super awkward and the sex scene was so awful that even Jane knew it. Not to mention, the incongruity between her ridiculously low level of self-esteem and her extreme confidence in being able to pull a gun on a king and start a fight with a royal dignitary on her first day. That makes no sense - her whole thing is that she's a total nobody and not worth anyone's time or attention. But sit her down at a royal dinner (one she literally tried to run away from a moment before) and she's like "You want some of this? FIGHT ME."

I just really hate this woman. I think the rest of what I've read is actually pretty interesting. The plot, as of 50%, is great. Except for Jane being an awful self-loathing harpy that can't seem to find the joy in anything and cares about nothing except filling her womb. Absolutely hate her.
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
July 5, 2016
Amanda's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

Janet Chapman is one of the first authors I read when I was deep into highlander romance stories and just loved the way she weaved a tale of magic and romance. From Kiss to Queen is her newest story and once again tells a whimsical, funny story of first love between a prince and an ordinary girl. But Jane Abbot is anything but ordinary. Out hunting in the Maine woods she encounters a downed plane and jumps to rescue the man trapped inside. Once she frees him her life turns into an adventure. Before she knows it she is kidnapped by this man and headed to a small Russian country on the other side of the world. Markov Lakeland of Shelkova is captivated by Jane and knows that it would be better if she came with him in order to protect her from the men who are after him.

Jane has such innocence and independent attitude it is no wonder I fell in love with this woman. She has learned to take care of herself from an early age and will fight for what’s right no matter what it may cost. You see her compassion for others, her caring for Mark’s ailing father, and her enthusiasm for life. She definitely kept Mark on her toes from the very beginning and I’m sure she’ll continue for many years to come. I love her transformation from being one and alone, to becoming part of a big family and taking on new roles in her life. Jane eventually started to believe in her self-worth and what she has to offer others.

Mark is just larger than life, arrogant, handsome and presumptuous. He means well and doesn’t take too kindly when Jane doesn’t exactly do as he says. Mark has his work cut out for him considering he wants his guardian angel who saved him, to be his queen when it comes time for him to take the throne. The story gets whimsical when he has so much at his disposal and you find yourself just going with the flow. The romance that developed between Jane and Mark wasn’t typical but he knew in his heart she was the one for him and just had to convince her, by showing her in every way what she means to him.

Janet Chapman has a way of writing an over the top story and making it fun, believable and laughable. She creates a cast of characters that you fall in love with, and you can’t wait to see what they are going to do next. Jane and Mark may look like an unlikely couple from their appearance but you get to see what is in their hearts in order to create a loving relationship. I had fun reading this story and couldn’t believe how fast it all went. It makes me want to back and reread some of her other stories and relive the magic of them all.

Review copy provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Morgan Gene.
28 reviews18 followers
November 19, 2019
The writing wasn't bad. The two star rating, rather, is because of the H. He thought and felt more like a women to me.
Profile Image for Emmie.
1,277 reviews3 followers
September 30, 2019
Janet Chapman is the queen of romance. I always enjoy her books, and I'm awaiting the next installment eagerly.

This book was a bit different than her Spellbound Falls books, but it still ties in with the series.

I love the humor and all the memorable characters that Janet Chapman dreams up. This book was especially good!
Profile Image for Donna Was A Scandal.
1,158 reviews83 followers
July 5, 2016
That's right...I loved it that much. Perfect summer read, hell, anytime read! All of the things one looks for in a romance book are here.

Here's a link to my complete review: http://bit.ly/29kNgkD
Profile Image for Susan.
4,809 reviews126 followers
July 10, 2017
Fantastic book. Classic Janet Chapman, with a strong female and very alpha male, who strike sparks off each other from the beginning. I laughed out loud so many times during this book, as Jane and Mark would go head to head, each trying to get their own way. Jane is hunting in the woods when she witnesses a plane being shot out of the sky. It lands in the water, and she immediately dives in to save the pilot. She has to give him air a couple of times via a lifesaving kiss before she can get him free of the wreckage. She leads him through the woods to safety, evading their pursuers along the way. Jane, who is quite confident in the woods that are her home, has no trouble bossing Mark around. Mark, who is obviously more accustomed to bossing rather than being bossed, has no choice but to allow it while he recovers from the crash, but he obviously doesn't like it. By the time they have reached safety, he has recovered and refuses to leave his "guardian angel" behind, at the mercy of those who are after him. When she resists, he simply kidnaps her.

I loved both Jane and Mark. Jane is an intriguing mix of confidence and insecurity. In the woods, and working as a guide, she is confident in her abilities. But outside of that, she sees herself as less than a nobody. She is an orphan, raised first by nuns, then by an older couple who weren't especially loving. She limps from a childhood injury and doesn't consider herself attractive at all. This isn't helped by the way she is treated by the men she encounters. She is also stubborn, kind, smart and curious. Mark is the oldest son of the king of a newly emerging country, who is soon to become the king himself. He was in America looking for a bride when he encountered Jane. He is just as stubborn as she is. And extremely protective of his "angel."

I loved the relationship that developed between Mark and Jane. He was intrigued and captivated by her from the very beginning. She also frustrated the daylights out of him. He is determined to keep her safe and drags her off to Shelkova to do so. He is also determined to make her his queen, but convincing her is an uphill battle. Jane doesn't believe that she is the type of woman a man like Mark would want. She's certainly attracted to him, and believes that he's attracted to her, but that it will end as soon as she gets him to safety. Once she finds out exactly who he is, she is doubly certain that she has no place in his life. She fights against his plans with all her might, feeling completely out of her depth. I loved their interactions, as she stands up against his bossiness, treating him just like any guy who gets on her wrong side. At the same time, Mark really wants to win her over. I loved the way that he slowly begins to understand her and how her mind works. There are some fantastic scenes on the aircraft carrier, with the push and pull of their relationship heating up. I also loved Jane's down-to-earth attitude around all the pomp and circumstance, and the reactions of those around her to her treatment of Mark. She also had incredible compassion and kindness in the midst of adversity that drew Mark to her even more.

Once they arrive in Shelkova, the pressure really heats up. Mark is determined she'll be his wife, and Jane is equally certain that she is not what he needs. His family gets into the act, with his father leading the way. Reynard is just as much a rogue and charmer as his son and is enchanted by Jane. I loved his efforts to show Jane how wonderful she is. Mark's three brothers are great, and I loved them all. Mark's aunt Irina is fantastic, as she becomes a true friend and confidant for Jane. All of them together work hard to show Jane that she's loved, wanted and needed by them and by the country. Jane still has her doubts, and I loved Mark's understanding of those and her actions as she tests those doubts. The story doesn't end with the fairytale wedding, but we also get to see them settle in to married life and Jane into being Queen. There are awesome scenes of Jane as she breaks traditions right and left and helps move the country into the modern age.

But not everything is sunshine and roses, and trouble strikes a few months into the marriage. Jane and Irina are kidnapped, then kidnapped from the kidnappers. The following days are tense, but also have some lighter moments. There's a fun twist to the end, once Mark arrives on the scene. The epilogue is fun, as Jane plans her revenge on one of the second kidnappers. There was one question left hanging (the sex of the expected baby) but I have a feeling I know the answer. I can't wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Bambi Unbridled.
1,297 reviews139 followers
July 6, 2016
It's been a long while since I've read anything by Janet Chapman, and I am so happy to have rectified that situation. From Kiss to Queen was a super fun and light read, a bit of a rags-to-riches romance featuring a royal prince and an orphan.

Our heroine, Jane Abbott, is hiking through the woods in Maine when a plane nearly falls on her head. She saves the beleaguered pilot with the kiss of life and pulls him from the wreckage under a hail of gunfire. While this scenario would have most heroines running for their life or screaming their fool head off, our Jane picks up her trusty shotgun and fires back. Jane takes capability and preparedness to a whole new level. All she needs is her trusty backpack and firearm, and Jane can survive the wilderness... she definitely would not be Naked and Afraid. Having been raised for her formative years by nuns, Jane is also extremely naive and innocent. While this aspect of her character could have gone overboard - I think the naivete was handled in a humorous manner that made Jane utterly charming. I loved her zest for life, her curiosity for new adventures, and her unknowing ability to make others fall in love with her. Jane had severe self-esteem and inadequacy issues stemming from her (lack of) family life, a disfiguring ankle injury, and past treatment by the opposite sex. This part was a little much for me at times, but I did enjoy the way the others built up her self-image in an attempt to get her to believe/realize her self-worth.

The lack of family and experience attributed to Jane was deeply contrasted by Markov Lakeland's situation. Mark is the heir to the throne in Shelkova, with a tight-knit royal family consisting of the patriarch (Reynard) and the four royal princes. Reynard and all his sons were endearingly mischievous, yet tolerant and affectionate toward Jane. Markov was decisive when it came to Jane, but he was also patient and willing to work on her issues. I liked him quite a bit - and loved to see Jane get him all riled up.

The relationship was not insta-love per se, but the relationship did move along at a quick clip. Mostly it was Markov claiming Jane and doing everything in his power to convince her to marry him. This unusual finding and claiming of extraordinary brides fell in line with tradition for the Lakeland men, and I found it an enchanting aspect of the story. While Jane's inadequacy issues were an obstacle to the relationship, watching her test the men, and the men work, in turn, to change her mind, was fun and entertaining and caused abundant chuckles on my part. I loved that the story didn't end with Markov's coronation and the royal wedding. I like to see what happens after the vows, and it was a lot of fun seeing Jane take the reins as queen.

The secondary characters in this story were just as endearing as Jane and Markov. I am really looking forward to Gunnar Wolfe's story with Jane's best friend, who some man recognize from the Spellbound Falls series.

I received an advanced copy of this book from Berkley Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 4 stars / 2 flames. Full review posted at Bambi Unbridled.
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229 reviews7 followers
September 28, 2016
Great book with funny dialogues and interesting characters! I really liked it and the epilogue was good but I wanted a more detailed one. We get to know she is pregnant about 80% of the book but we never know what gender her baby is and I wanted to know if she had a boy or a girl? I am not sure if there is going to be a second book about Katie and Gunner but the epilogue seemed like there was going to be one so can't wait to read that one :)
Profile Image for Sara Jo.
1,058 reviews11 followers
July 23, 2016
I know that romance novels make quick work of women falling in love, but seriously? Finally, a capable, strong, independent woman and after a few kisses, she just falls over. Grrr.
Profile Image for Nancy Badger.
Author 47 books207 followers
June 27, 2018
Another awesome contemporary romance story from an author whose books find a spot on my bookshelf as 'keepers'. I love Maine and the author fills the beginning pages with the rustic charm then folds us into an adventure beneath the water and on to an international kingdom. action, peril, and a growing relationship between Mark and Jane keep me turning the pages.
Profile Image for Jessica Stewart.
19 reviews
November 26, 2025
tell me why Jane acted like a child the entire book when she’s supposed to be 27. also Mark was extremely toxic and not in a good way. i found the dialogue to be odd and unnatural which made it difficult to read. it was also annoying that the end of the book and the epilogue were basically a set up for the next book in the series. let’s focus on the story at hand please.
Profile Image for Mary.
4 reviews
November 6, 2020
I have read everyone of Janet s books twice because they are so feel good books. I especially love the series books

Profile Image for Chrissy Dionne.
10 reviews6 followers
August 11, 2016
Jane Abbot is a simple woman with few friends, a primarily solitary lifestyle and serious survival skills which is why she is present when a small plane crashes into a local pond. Instinct kicked in and she dove in to the frigid water to save the pilot, gifting him with a lifesaving kiss (allowing him oxygen until he could surface). Because of her bravery Mark dubs her his ‘guardian angel,’ especially since she thinks nothing of tackling every dangerous situation thrown her way – all to save a stranger she assumes could be anything from a drug runner to an international spy. She’ll soon discover that Mark is no simple man, in fact he’s just as stubborn and bossy as she is and they’re going to clash because Mark has no intention of leaving his ‘angel’ behind when he returns to his homeland – and she has no clue that her life is about to change in ways she never dared to dream.
Mark is really Prince Markov Lakeland, and he’s soon to be crowned king of his small country, Shelkova. He has a military at his beck and call, but his life was saved by one pint sized woman whom he fully intends to never let go – even if she fights him every step of the way. Mark’s ready, willing and able to provide Jane with everything she’s ever wanted – a family of her very own. Jane’s an orphan who suffered a crushing injury to her leg as a baby so getting her to believe she can have her fairy tale ending is going to be difficult and will require the aid of Mark’s whole family.
Can I just say that I really love Janet Chapman’s FROM KISS TO QUEEN? The characters are larger than life, flaws and all, with king size egos, stubborn attitudes, and protective instincts that just made me happy. The idea of a prince hunting for a bride, crash landing and having all sorts of military air and watch crafts at his disposal is stretching it, but its fiction so I simply enjoyed the ride and didn’t fixate on if it could really happen or not. I adored Jane simply because she’s ‘real’ – she fights for what she believes in, doesn’t treat Mark any differently once she learns of his royal lineage, and is insecure about her own worth (like so many women). Of course, Mark is sexy, daring, and smart enough to at least attempt to understand Jane’s needs and accommodate her whenever possible. We all need a man like that – unfortunately Mark’s taken, but he has brothers – I call dibs on Alexi.
With FROM KISS TO QUEEN Ms. Chapman allowed herself the freedom to intertwine a stand-alone romance with all her books, but especially her more magical series, SPELLBOUND FALLS, which is where two of the characters from this read will be connecting (and I can’t wait to witness the fireworks) in her next book CALL IT MAGIC . I have to confess that I haven’t read any of the SPELLBOUND FALLS series yet, even though I’ve read many of Ms. Chapman’s books so will definitely pick up some of those books and delve into this obviously charming community (just look at the covers on the books, beautifully done cover artist!)
FROM KISS TO QUEEN is an action packed, fun, emotionally charged romance that I did not want to end. It’s definitely a Recommended Read!
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Profile Image for Elizabeth H..
1,085 reviews78 followers
February 19, 2017
This review was written by Marie for a guest review post on Ever After Book Reviews blog:

5 Stars

I LOVE Janet Chapman’s books! She knows how to write a great romance novel. And From Kiss to Queen is one of those great novels. She takes a premise that every girl dreams about and makes it her own with a little “Hollywood-esque” twist that somehow makes the story all the more romantic. Wonderfully written, with a hero that’s mysterious, sexy and…oh yeah…a Prince, this adorable little romance is Janet Chapman at her finest.

***I read and reviewed a paperback copy of the book gifted to the blog, from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
Profile Image for Miranda.
772 reviews103 followers
June 29, 2016
3.5 / 5 Fangs

I went into this book wanting a light and fun romance, and that is exactly what I got! This book was a quick and charming read. This wasn't a perfect book, but it was still very entertaining.

The plot of this book was what made it so addicting for me. I thought Janet did a great job at keeping the plot interesting through out the book. Some of the drama was a bit unbelievable, but it was still entertaining.

The chemistry between Jane and Mark was undeniable. Every moment between them was filled with sexual tension. Janet really knows how to create chemistry between two people! The problem I had with the romance between Jane and Mark was that I thought it felt like insta-love. I wanted more of a slow burning romance. It was hard for me to believe the deep connection they had, because it seemed like they barely knew each other. I wanted more tension between them before they shared their first actual kiss. As I said, Jane and Mark definitely had chemistry, but I thought the feelings developed and were discussed way too quickly.

Even though I had a hard time believing how quickly Jane and Mark fell in love, I still thought they were a cute couple by the end of the book.

I thought the main character, Jane, was hilarious. I really loved her chapters in the book. I found myself laughing out loud numerous times during her narration! Mark was a charming and sexy guy. I didn't like how demanding and controlling he was at times, but I definitely liked him overall.

I thought this was a fun summer read! I would recommend this to people who are looking for a cute romance novel. I am excited to check out more books by Janet Chapman in the future.



3.5 / 5 Fangs

*This ebook was given to me in exchange for a honest review. *

MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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Profile Image for Mimi.
2,299 reviews30 followers
May 22, 2020
I went back to reread From Kiss to Queen which introduces many of the characters who subsequently appear in Janet Chapman's final novel Call it Magic which I just finished reading. My feelings about this author and From Kiss to Queen remain the same as I what I wrote about them in 2017.

December 23, 2017: There are some authors whose style of writing is so captivating that I find myself compelled to seek out and read all their previous novels. Janet Chapman was one such author. Her novels combine romance, adventure, challenges, and seeming opposites who somehow manage to find their HEA. Some of them are magical paranormal romances such as her Charming The Highlander series, and Spellman Falls, and others are contemporary romances, such as The Sinclair Brothers or The Puffin Harbor series.

From Kiss to Queen is Janet Chapman's most recent (and unfortunately, last) novel. It is a standalone romance about how no good deed goes unpunished but sometimes the end result is worth it all. In rescuing a stranger whose plane has crashed into a nearby lake, Jane Abbott unknowingly sets into motion a series of events that end with her finding her HEA. Jane and Mark's relationship is a very prickly one that includes many comical situations as well as some that put his or her life in danger. I really enjoyed this novel.

I was saddened to learn that Janet Chapman, one of my favorite writers of magical romance, passed away in October, 2017. From Kiss to Queen is her last novel.
Profile Image for Christine.
1,889 reviews
July 25, 2016
I knew this was going to be a Cinderella story, so I wasn't too put off by the sheer implausibility of the plot.

Plain Jane Abbott rescues a man -- just call me Mark -- from a plane crash, only to discover that he's way 'more than meets the eye.' He falls hard for the gutsy, determined, but somehow endlessly annoying Jane. She's smitten as well, but can't believe that swoon-worthy Mark could really be interested in her. Complications ensue. But because it's a fairytale, Jane and Mark get their HEA.

Initially I liked Jane...however she turns into one of those 'cute-but-ditzy' heroines who is so darn determined to show how independent she is that she makes lousy choices and poor decisions that result in needless complications for everyone else. Jane's not TSTL, she's just a colossal nuisance. I couldn't understand why Mark and his family put up with her nonsense.

Mark is just Prince Charming, so he's totally one-dimensional.

I had to make myself finish it, just to see how painfully awful Jane became. And she didn't disappoint.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
May 19, 2016
Christ I loved Jane, she could make Mark go from zero to a hundred in like thirty seconds:
“You will not be artifcially inseminated, either. Is that clear?”
“But I want a baby.”
“I’ll give you one!”
Oh yeah, she was sorry she’d mentioned anything this morning. Hoping to placate him, as well as get him off her chest, she frantically nodded agreement—not really knowing or caring what she was agreeing to.
I really loved this freaking book I loved Mark's family and Jane was hilarious when she made Mark lose his mind at times.
Profile Image for Dawn ♥ romance.
1,830 reviews29 followers
July 22, 2016
I really enjoyed this story with lots of action that moved right along, especially the first half. The plot was so good it more than made up for the heroine's stubbornness in the second half. It had an exciting finish making it an all around good book. Jane rescues Mark and gets him to safety when his plane crashes in a pond in the Maine forest.
Profile Image for Mary Beth.
789 reviews
November 20, 2016
Well the story was fun and exciting, but the heroine made me a little angry. She is a resourceful woman but completely clueless about the world? It seemed a little hard to believe. The character is a little too naive. It just didn't ring true. She was tough as nails at the beginning and turned into a weakling by the end.
1,215 reviews15 followers
February 1, 2017
Great example of when good books go bad. I was enjoying this despite Mark's high-handedness in getting Jane to his country. But, after the wedding the whole story goes downhill and gets so stupid I was speed reading to finish. To be a standalone the last dumb plot twist was apparently designed to set up her next book which is part of another series she writes. Moving on...
13 reviews
July 3, 2017
Main female character, cannot call her a heroine, was painfully naive and rather obnoxious. The author took the naive virgin trope to the extreme with a character that didn't even know much about biology and apparently things waiving guns is a good way to solve an argument.
Profile Image for Toni.
243 reviews1 follower
March 6, 2024
From Kiss To Queen, the first book I've ever read and definitely not the last. I'm excited to start my journey of reading with Janet Chapman's amazing and well-written story. Who knew that a phone addict like me would be caught in the mesmerizing events of the book, even from the beginning?! The Action packed romance!! I couldn't sleep! Just by thinking and imagining the fabulous adventure of Jane Abbot and Markov Lakeland~

I won't put some spoilers of some sort but it amazes me how Janet Chapman gives her characters life, emotions, and stories- equally a great character with the female and male protagonist. Imagine just hunting somewhere in the woods, witnessed an attempted murder, survived the woods with a handsome yet dangerous stranger, then all of a sudden kidnapped, riding through various vehicles, and shot in the arm! Haha Welcome to the amazing life of Jane Abbot~ the future queen of Shelkova.

Excited to read more!
Profile Image for Linda.
1,638 reviews
September 30, 2020
This book is about a typical alpha male, who was royalty, taking over and bossing our very strong female character to do what he wanted her to do. Jane Abbot was in the Maine woods hunting when a float plane was shot out of the sky and landed in the pond where she was. Fortunately, she was able to rescue the man and even scare off the guys in the other plane that had been shooting at him. Mark Lakeland felt like she was in danger so he took over her life and ended up taking her to Shelkova across the Barren straits of Alaska to his homeland. He just announced that he was going to marry her and that is where I decided that this was a Harlequin romance.
Profile Image for Hilliary.
115 reviews2 followers
February 19, 2019
Starts out with a strong, competent woman. But then the author makes her so sick that she's out of it while the alpha man takes charge. Then when she gets angry at the man, the author makes her do something so dumb, ahe gets shot. This book was so damn weird when it comes to gender roles. I think the author may have wanted write an "empowered" woman, but didn't know how to make that work, so she resorted to outside forces working on the protagonist to put her right back into conservative gender roles.
Profile Image for Mary.
88 reviews
June 16, 2017
Although I enjoyed every other Janet Chapman book, this one fell short , in my opinion. The main characters were kind of blah and one dimensional and the female....... just how can anyone be that naïve?? It was a good story overall, I just didn't LOVE it like her others. I may or may not read others that will surely follow in this particular series. I did appreciate how she tied characters from her other series into this one though.
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