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Kingdoms & Crowns #2
Claiming the Royal Innocent
Found When Aleksandra Dimitriou is revealed as the secret daughter of Akathinia's former king, she's torn from her comfortable existence and thrust into the royal world…under the protection of Aristos Nicolades. Forbidden Aristos has orders not to touch the innocent princess, but beautiful Aleksandra calls to the rebellious urges that the self-made Greek tycoon thought he overcame long ago. Forever? As the heat of their desire rises, the rules begin to evaporate. It's soon clear that the person Aristos should be protecting Aleksandra from is himself!
192 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published April 19, 2016
32 people are currently reading
358 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Hayward
284 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 40 reviews
May 29, 2017
Have they changed the HP handbook? Because I’ve been reading some newer HPs and the alphas involved just aren’t that alpha anymore. Case in point – this hero. At first he appears to be a standard alpha:
* He pulled himself up from poverty with the help of a mentor- check.
* He has his own island surrounded by sharks with frikkin laser beam - check
* He doesn’t do relationships and has bedded most of the female half of the free world, including the heroine’s half sister and the woman from whom the heroine stole the invitation to the ball. – check
But then:
* He is desperate for money to finance his latest casino so he ingratiates himself with a Russian Oligarch. - Wait. What?
* He has been ingratiating himself to the king (Heroine’s newly found half-brother) for five years to get casino permits – just no. This bowing and scraping is not alpha behaviour.
* He needs financing, so he turns to a sleazy Russian Oligarch. The Russian Oligarch wants flattery, so he allows the H to put on a fancy party for his wife. He also wants (and gets) an invite to the hero's exclusive poker party. But then said Oligarch doesn’t come through with the money. This is not winning Alpha behavior. The hero got owned. He wasted chapters of time on this guy.
* Hero is worried about losing his business. – I don’t care if your business is a popcorn stand or hotels and casinos worth billions, if you don’t have financial security then you are not an alpha and I don’t want hear it. I read HPs to escape from money worry.
* Hero isn’t surprised when the Arab card player wants him to bet the heroine’s favors in the card game. The hero says this happens in a lot of casinos (Just not his ) Sorry hero, I judge you by the company you keep and casual references to human traffickers are gross.
* Hero admits he can’t stop proving himself because he is insecure. - Understandable, believable – but way too high maintenance to be an alpha.
* Heroine does all the heavy lifting in this story. She runs after him and he breaks his word to the king to not seduce her. Again – understandable, believable, but not honorable. He has no bouts of conscience about any of this.
The heroine had a completely different storyline. She has crashed her half-sister’s birthday ball so she can meet her bio-dad. Seems she is a product of a long running affair between her mother (the Queen’s lady-in-waiting) and the former king. That the Queen is gracious to the heroine is a minor miracle since the heroine’s mother was her best friend who betrayed her with an affair with her husband
I couldn’t believe how easily the heroine’s storyline was solved. A couple of chapters in and she and the half-sister are bffs and her brother is all protective. I think what Anne Mather or Penny Jordan could have done with these characters and I shake my head at all the missed drama. Since when are happy families in HPs?
So the princess-in-training thing petered out when the king sent the heroine to the hero’s lair for her own safety because a neighboring island was threatening to invade. The island and the hero’s problems then take over the narrative. I realize I wrote this review backwards. But the promise of the opening was never fulfilled as the action turned toward the hero and his 99 problems.
This was well-written. The heroine was not annoying. I just couldn’t get past the dodgy morals of the hero (both in and out of the boardroom) and what a poor businessman he was.
* He pulled himself up from poverty with the help of a mentor- check.
* He has his own island
* He doesn’t do relationships and has bedded most of the female half of the free world, including the heroine’s half sister and the woman from whom the heroine stole the invitation to the ball. – check
But then:
* He is desperate for money to finance his latest casino so he ingratiates himself with a Russian Oligarch. - Wait. What?
* He has been ingratiating himself to the king (Heroine’s newly found half-brother) for five years to get casino permits – just no. This bowing and scraping is not alpha behaviour.
* He needs financing, so he turns to a sleazy Russian Oligarch. The Russian Oligarch wants flattery, so he allows the H to put on a fancy party for his wife. He also wants (and gets) an invite to the hero's exclusive poker party. But then said Oligarch doesn’t come through with the money. This is not winning Alpha behavior. The hero got owned. He wasted chapters of time on this guy.
* Hero is worried about losing his business. – I don’t care if your business is a popcorn stand or hotels and casinos worth billions, if you don’t have financial security then you are not an alpha and I don’t want hear it. I read HPs to escape from money worry.
* Hero isn’t surprised when the Arab card player wants him to bet the heroine’s favors in the card game. The hero says this happens in a lot of casinos (Just not his ) Sorry hero, I judge you by the company you keep and casual references to human traffickers are gross.
* Hero admits he can’t stop proving himself because he is insecure. - Understandable, believable – but way too high maintenance to be an alpha.
* Heroine does all the heavy lifting in this story. She runs after him and he breaks his word to the king to not seduce her. Again – understandable, believable, but not honorable. He has no bouts of conscience about any of this.
The heroine had a completely different storyline. She has crashed her half-sister’s birthday ball so she can meet her bio-dad. Seems she is a product of a long running affair between her mother (the Queen’s lady-in-waiting) and the former king. That the Queen is gracious to the heroine is a minor miracle since the heroine’s mother was her best friend who betrayed her with an affair with her husband
I couldn’t believe how easily the heroine’s storyline was solved. A couple of chapters in and she and the half-sister are bffs and her brother is all protective. I think what Anne Mather or Penny Jordan could have done with these characters and I shake my head at all the missed drama. Since when are happy families in HPs?
So the princess-in-training thing petered out when the king sent the heroine to the hero’s lair for her own safety because a neighboring island was threatening to invade. The island and the hero’s problems then take over the narrative. I realize I wrote this review backwards. But the promise of the opening was never fulfilled as the action turned toward the hero and his 99 problems.
This was well-written. The heroine was not annoying. I just couldn’t get past the dodgy morals of the hero (both in and out of the boardroom) and what a poor businessman he was.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2016
It was an okay read for me,what bothered me the most was that the hero had had a sexual past with the heroine's new found half sister.This threw me out of the story.I don't like books where the MC'S had a sexual past with other family members.
2.5**
2.5**
November 20, 2022
Almost perfect
I just could not get over the fact he slept with her sister. That is just squicky to me. The romance was hot and intense and I liked it. I liked the heroine Alex but Aristos was just a little too much of a player for me. I did like the book very much because you just knew he loved her and she definitely loved him. Their coming together was definitely explosive. Loved that part and I liked that they talked to each other and didn't play games. I read the other two books and they are in my kindle but I may need to re-read to catch up. Just Stella was different she is the sister he slept with. Just not sure I can like her story.
I just could not get over the fact he slept with her sister. That is just squicky to me. The romance was hot and intense and I liked it. I liked the heroine Alex but Aristos was just a little too much of a player for me. I did like the book very much because you just knew he loved her and she definitely loved him. Their coming together was definitely explosive. Loved that part and I liked that they talked to each other and didn't play games. I read the other two books and they are in my kindle but I may need to re-read to catch up. Just Stella was different she is the sister he slept with. Just not sure I can like her story.
June 28, 2016
Just ok I was looking for a better story the setting was amazing. The drama was good here but what I normally love about the hero being strong and forceful was not working for me here. She does most of the running. I don't really like that.
I think I have outgrown these books! God I hope not. I normally can't stop reading these.
I am getting too picky here. The lack of epilogue made it hard for me to see them working through his issues.
Good book and their chemistry was great.
I think I have outgrown these books! God I hope not. I normally can't stop reading these.
I am getting too picky here. The lack of epilogue made it hard for me to see them working through his issues.
Good book and their chemistry was great.
April 3, 2016
I can't believe this author FINALLY wrote a virginal heroine. I am shocked...in a good way. Heroine is a royal princess who falls in love with her protector, a brooding commitment phobic tycoon. They spend one night together and scandal erupts. Now the only way to avoid scandal is a royal wedding.
This book was emotional, sexy and angsty. An epilogue with cute babies would have made it a 5 stars book for me.
This book was emotional, sexy and angsty. An epilogue with cute babies would have made it a 5 stars book for me.
April 27, 2016
4.5 Rating.
This was a very good HP and loved the two characters.
Just a short overview of what an enjoyable read this was. I absolutely adored this hero!!! He was alpha, brooding and yet had character. The heroine, Aleksandra I thought was just okay at the beginning, but as the story progressed she grew into a strong and likable match for our hero, Aristos.
These two had chemistry, from the get go. The progression of their relationship was excellent. I loved the buildup of the physical as well as emotional side. Their romance had depth as well as sexual tension throughout the whole story. Now this is how I love my HP!!!
I would have given it a five star but no epilogue. I love my epilogue at the end of a HEA.
This was a very good HP and loved the two characters.
Just a short overview of what an enjoyable read this was. I absolutely adored this hero!!! He was alpha, brooding and yet had character. The heroine, Aleksandra I thought was just okay at the beginning, but as the story progressed she grew into a strong and likable match for our hero, Aristos.
These two had chemistry, from the get go. The progression of their relationship was excellent. I loved the buildup of the physical as well as emotional side. Their romance had depth as well as sexual tension throughout the whole story. Now this is how I love my HP!!!
I would have given it a five star but no epilogue. I love my epilogue at the end of a HEA.
May 11, 2016
CLAIMING THE ROYAL INNOCENT by author Jennifer Hayward is Book 2 in The Kingdoms and Crown series. It is a May 2016 release by Harlequin Presents series.
Aleksandra Dimitriou enters the Princess Ball which was in honor of her elder sister's birthday. No one knew her as she was the King's love-child and her mother kept her birth a secret from the world. So her brother, the present King and her sister whose birthday party she had crashed didn't know of her existence.
Yet Aristos Nicolades knows she is a fraud and confronts her. After kissing her senseless! I found this story mesmerizing and very sensual. I've loved author Jennifer Hayward's stories from her first book. She is a marvelous story-teller and keeps her readers hooked to the page.
Read CLAIMING THE ROYAL INNOCENT and see where Aristos and Alex's chemistry and scorching hot passion between them take them.
Highly recommended for all readers of romance.
Aleksandra Dimitriou enters the Princess Ball which was in honor of her elder sister's birthday. No one knew her as she was the King's love-child and her mother kept her birth a secret from the world. So her brother, the present King and her sister whose birthday party she had crashed didn't know of her existence.
Yet Aristos Nicolades knows she is a fraud and confronts her. After kissing her senseless! I found this story mesmerizing and very sensual. I've loved author Jennifer Hayward's stories from her first book. She is a marvelous story-teller and keeps her readers hooked to the page.
Read CLAIMING THE ROYAL INNOCENT and see where Aristos and Alex's chemistry and scorching hot passion between them take them.
Highly recommended for all readers of romance.
May 13, 2017
I'm so excited that I discovered Jennifer Hayward. All three books of this trilogy were amazing even though I read them backwards!
It took me a while to warm up to Alex, the heroine of the middle book. The heroines of the first and last book were much more cutting edge. Where Stella is prickly and entitled and Sophia is a driven professional woman, Alex is just a nice friendly girl who comes from a small Greek island and suddenly finds out she is a princess. I was a little disappointed that she adjusts to the royal life so quickly -- but by the end I really loved her for being the genuine, gentle person that she is.
Aristos was kind of annoying at first as well. A billionaire casino developer who keeps boasting about his huge projects and his high-roller image with shady people? Who does this guy remind me of? ("I'm telling you, this trilogy, it's going to be the greatest trilogy ever, and we're going to make Akathinia great again -- people will be tired of all the money rolling in!") And somehow, these Harlequin guys, when they keep saying their "from the street" and they used to be in a "gang" they sound less like Christopher Moltisanti in the Sopranos and more like, I don't know, Backstreet Boys. Or Boys to Men!
So why did I love this book? Great lightning scene with sex, something about storms well described is a real turn on to me. But more than that, it's the characters that make this book a keeper. Alex is gentle and kind, but she's no pushover. She makes it very clear to Aristos that she can handle an affair. And the island sex scenes (with and without lightning) are really hot!
Alex and Aristos really talk. Their affair goes on for days, though it feels longer (in a good way.) And then when it's obvious they both have feelings that go beyond lust, she is way more mature about telling him what she wants, and more up front about why she needs time out. I loved the fact that the "black moment" (which all romance writers study) is not based on a misunderstanding or a quarrel that gets out of hand. Alex tells Aristos she needs a time out, but she doesn't scream "I hate you!" and throw things. She doesn't have to. And Aristos goes off and makes some changes in how he does business and how he deals with his family. It's sort of refreshing that his conscience tells him what to do, and that only afterwards does he tell Alex it's all because of her.
I'd say ninety percent of the romance novels I've read are rushed or careless in the last ten pages. One thing that really stunned me was that in this book it's the opposite. The last ten pages are really sexy, really funny, and really set up the next book (Stella and the new king of the rival kingdom) with a lot of humor and sassy tension.
I wish there were more Akathinia books -- but I can't wait to see what Jennifer Hayward does next!
It took me a while to warm up to Alex, the heroine of the middle book. The heroines of the first and last book were much more cutting edge. Where Stella is prickly and entitled and Sophia is a driven professional woman, Alex is just a nice friendly girl who comes from a small Greek island and suddenly finds out she is a princess. I was a little disappointed that she adjusts to the royal life so quickly -- but by the end I really loved her for being the genuine, gentle person that she is.
Aristos was kind of annoying at first as well. A billionaire casino developer who keeps boasting about his huge projects and his high-roller image with shady people? Who does this guy remind me of? ("I'm telling you, this trilogy, it's going to be the greatest trilogy ever, and we're going to make Akathinia great again -- people will be tired of all the money rolling in!") And somehow, these Harlequin guys, when they keep saying their "from the street" and they used to be in a "gang" they sound less like Christopher Moltisanti in the Sopranos and more like, I don't know, Backstreet Boys. Or Boys to Men!
So why did I love this book? Great lightning scene with sex, something about storms well described is a real turn on to me. But more than that, it's the characters that make this book a keeper. Alex is gentle and kind, but she's no pushover. She makes it very clear to Aristos that she can handle an affair. And the island sex scenes (with and without lightning) are really hot!
Alex and Aristos really talk. Their affair goes on for days, though it feels longer (in a good way.) And then when it's obvious they both have feelings that go beyond lust, she is way more mature about telling him what she wants, and more up front about why she needs time out. I loved the fact that the "black moment" (which all romance writers study) is not based on a misunderstanding or a quarrel that gets out of hand. Alex tells Aristos she needs a time out, but she doesn't scream "I hate you!" and throw things. She doesn't have to. And Aristos goes off and makes some changes in how he does business and how he deals with his family. It's sort of refreshing that his conscience tells him what to do, and that only afterwards does he tell Alex it's all because of her.
I'd say ninety percent of the romance novels I've read are rushed or careless in the last ten pages. One thing that really stunned me was that in this book it's the opposite. The last ten pages are really sexy, really funny, and really set up the next book (Stella and the new king of the rival kingdom) with a lot of humor and sassy tension.
I wish there were more Akathinia books -- but I can't wait to see what Jennifer Hayward does next!
August 14, 2016
Hayward's Claiming the Royal Innocent really snuck up on me. I thought it'd be a run-of-the-mill HP. I was enjoying it just fine when everything changed about a third of the way in. The heroine's newly-grasped royalty and struggle with her new identity are resolved in most sympathetic fashion. I loved Alex because she wasn't taken with the glamour of being a princess, but realized that, no matter your position and wealth, you need purpose, direction, community, and love. She brings all of that wisdom to an emotionally closed-off, jaded hero. I thought Aristos would be the usual overbearing alpha-hero, but his backstory made him into something else entirely and the romance novel original and compelling. If you'd like to read a more extensive review, please follow the link:
https://missbatesreadsromance.com/201...
Claiming the Royal Innocent is published by Harlequin. I'm grateful to the author for a copy.
https://missbatesreadsromance.com/201...
Claiming the Royal Innocent is published by Harlequin. I'm grateful to the author for a copy.
April 23, 2016
This began so interesting but by chapter 5 I was so underwhelmed I couldn't make myself finish.
So what tanked Claiming the Royal Innocent...the hero went from bad ass alpha to beta who was not willing to claim the heroine. That just bored me. And I didn't get why a wealthy businessman was told by the heroine's brother he was not to romance the heroine!
I did like the heroine. She was a bit too naive on the impact she would have on her newly found family tho. That bothered me. Sure she wanted to know family but they could've not wanted to know her She didn't seem to want to consider that.
so Claiming the Royal innocent was a weak royal fantasy attempt. Honestly, I'm not much of fan of this trope as the heroes are always watered down betas who bore me.
So what tanked Claiming the Royal Innocent...the hero went from bad ass alpha to beta who was not willing to claim the heroine. That just bored me. And I didn't get why a wealthy businessman was told by the heroine's brother he was not to romance the heroine!
I did like the heroine. She was a bit too naive on the impact she would have on her newly found family tho. That bothered me. Sure she wanted to know family but they could've not wanted to know her She didn't seem to want to consider that.
so Claiming the Royal innocent was a weak royal fantasy attempt. Honestly, I'm not much of fan of this trope as the heroes are always watered down betas who bore me.
June 18, 2016
Look but don't touch. That's how Aristos must view Aleksandra, the forbidden woman. Can he change his ways? Will Alex be the one to turn his life around?
October 16, 2020
4.5 stars. I liked the plot and the h.
August 11, 2016
I’m in love with Aristos and Alexandria because I am in love with the writing style of the author Jennifer Hayward. Not a word is wasted and each sentence is a lyrical masterpiece, a magical way with words which had me in the heart of the story which roamed from the beautiful Akathinian royal palace ballroom to a stunning island and back again.
The second book in the Kingdoms and Crowns series tells the story of Princess Aleksandra and Aristos who meet in the most unconventional circumstances. Alex has fraudulently gained entry into the ball and Aristos knows she’s a fraud. Having intimate knowledge of the lady Alex is impersonating makes for a most interesting dance together. Alex has no choice but to disclose the King is her half brother.
Aristos’s security team is being used for the ball so he has a vested interest in making sure Alex isn’t a threat. He doesn’t even want to be at the ball but needs to keep favor with the King who has finally granted Aristos permission to build his penultimate casino on Akathinia. Alex is warmly welcomed into the Royal family but when the kingdom is under threat of war the King orders Aristos to take Alex away and keep her safe and UNTOUCHED on Aristos’s island. I loved it when the King phones later in the story and tells Aristos he has three seconds to convince him not to fly over and kill him – for breaking the no touching rule!
Aristos is the most handsomely arrogant man who is a fearless lone wolf. He’s got an empire to build, the last thing he wants to be is in charge of the princess protection program. Not only because he doesn’t want to be chief babysitter but because he knows the strict instructions to keep his hands off princess Alex is going to be a tough promise to keep. It doesn’t help that Alex has been given a boost of courage facing her new life and after a world shattering kiss with Aristos, she’s all for exploring things further.
The plot of the story is exciting and builds the characters as it develops. That mixed with the magical way of words Jennifer Hayward has, I landed smack bang in the middle of a beautiful world filled with interestingly complex characters who you hope get their happy ever after once they have smashed through all their issues and figured out that just maybe allowing themselves to love and be loved will be the most worthwhile win they will ever have. I was dying to turn each page, fill of anticipation of what would happen next, not wanting to reach the end.
Very much looking forward to the third installment Thank you Jennifer Hayward for writing a story that if I had any talent would love to write myself. Perfect to me!
The second book in the Kingdoms and Crowns series tells the story of Princess Aleksandra and Aristos who meet in the most unconventional circumstances. Alex has fraudulently gained entry into the ball and Aristos knows she’s a fraud. Having intimate knowledge of the lady Alex is impersonating makes for a most interesting dance together. Alex has no choice but to disclose the King is her half brother.
Aristos’s security team is being used for the ball so he has a vested interest in making sure Alex isn’t a threat. He doesn’t even want to be at the ball but needs to keep favor with the King who has finally granted Aristos permission to build his penultimate casino on Akathinia. Alex is warmly welcomed into the Royal family but when the kingdom is under threat of war the King orders Aristos to take Alex away and keep her safe and UNTOUCHED on Aristos’s island. I loved it when the King phones later in the story and tells Aristos he has three seconds to convince him not to fly over and kill him – for breaking the no touching rule!
Aristos is the most handsomely arrogant man who is a fearless lone wolf. He’s got an empire to build, the last thing he wants to be is in charge of the princess protection program. Not only because he doesn’t want to be chief babysitter but because he knows the strict instructions to keep his hands off princess Alex is going to be a tough promise to keep. It doesn’t help that Alex has been given a boost of courage facing her new life and after a world shattering kiss with Aristos, she’s all for exploring things further.
The plot of the story is exciting and builds the characters as it develops. That mixed with the magical way of words Jennifer Hayward has, I landed smack bang in the middle of a beautiful world filled with interestingly complex characters who you hope get their happy ever after once they have smashed through all their issues and figured out that just maybe allowing themselves to love and be loved will be the most worthwhile win they will ever have. I was dying to turn each page, fill of anticipation of what would happen next, not wanting to reach the end.
Very much looking forward to the third installment Thank you Jennifer Hayward for writing a story that if I had any talent would love to write myself. Perfect to me!
May 2, 2016
Whenever I pick up one of Jennifer Hayward’s delightful romances, I can always count on her to knock the happily-ever-after ball right out of the park. Her latest is just such a treat, times ten. The second book in her Kingdoms & Crowns series, Claiming the Royal Innocent, sends that HEA ball sailing into the stratosphere.
A sinfully gorgeous and lusciously alpha hero? Check. Aristos Nicolades has what it takes to make hearts go pitter-patter.
A heroine any girl would be proud to call her BFF? Check. Alek Dimitriou is sweet, but delightfully brassy when it matters.
Lots of juicy conflict, steamy attraction, and an exquisitely satisfying ending? Check, check, and check.
Claiming the Royal Innocent is a truly enjoyable read, and another masterpiece for the keeper shelf from Jennifer Hayward.
A sinfully gorgeous and lusciously alpha hero? Check. Aristos Nicolades has what it takes to make hearts go pitter-patter.
A heroine any girl would be proud to call her BFF? Check. Alek Dimitriou is sweet, but delightfully brassy when it matters.
Lots of juicy conflict, steamy attraction, and an exquisitely satisfying ending? Check, check, and check.
Claiming the Royal Innocent is a truly enjoyable read, and another masterpiece for the keeper shelf from Jennifer Hayward.
April 20, 2024
3.5-3.75 stars
Starts off well with a contemp/fresh vibe that still has the Presents’ tone/feel.
Fab first meet where you can’t help but identify with Aleksandra. She and Aristos are apart for about 10 pages after this but the writing is compelling enough for it not to be an issue here.
Aristos starts out as a yummy alpha that being told not to get involved with the princess starts to chip away at. Aleksandra’s emotional conflict is, at times, hard to pin down and the intensity diluted.
The royal court of Akathinia is entertaining and I’m looking forward to more in Carrying the King’s Pride.
Starts off well with a contemp/fresh vibe that still has the Presents’ tone/feel.
Fab first meet where you can’t help but identify with Aleksandra. She and Aristos are apart for about 10 pages after this but the writing is compelling enough for it not to be an issue here.
Aristos starts out as a yummy alpha that being told not to get involved with the princess starts to chip away at. Aleksandra’s emotional conflict is, at times, hard to pin down and the intensity diluted.
The royal court of Akathinia is entertaining and I’m looking forward to more in Carrying the King’s Pride.
January 1, 2019
Reading this one last was fine as it lacked some of the drama of the other two books in the series, and I didn't love Aleksandra's character so much, though Aristos was an interesting wounded soul but retained a classic alpha male personality.
The scenes on the private island were probably the best part, but the fast relationship between Aleksandra and her half siblings was a little hard to believe as well as the elevation to princess.
A good read, but if I had to choose I'd go with the other two.
The scenes on the private island were probably the best part, but the fast relationship between Aleksandra and her half siblings was a little hard to believe as well as the elevation to princess.
A good read, but if I had to choose I'd go with the other two.
September 11, 2016
This was a wonderful fairytale story with the spicy and saucy romance one could ever think about, extremely detailed hot scenes to really 'blow up' the reader's mind. Troubled H fell for innocent h, both in denial and fought for each other's new changes in life. I loved their symbiotic soothing relationship.Lovely lovely story.
May 3, 2016
A solid story with tension and desire. Jennifer Hayward delivers an entertaining read that will swoon the masses.
December 12, 2020
This was by far the best of the trilogy and I enjoyed it.
Although Aristos and Stella had no knowledge of the half sister’s existence when they ‘scratched each other ‘s itch’ - I agree with other comments that for Alex - knowing Aristos has had sex with her sister was pretty icky and I think it was a big mistake on the part of the author to include this as a plot point. It added nothing to the story and detracted from my enjoyment. ’
I liked the inclusion of other issues and Aristos’ ultimate decision to be a ‘moral’ businessman. A good read. Would have liked a proper epilogue.
Although Aristos and Stella had no knowledge of the half sister’s existence when they ‘scratched each other ‘s itch’ - I agree with other comments that for Alex - knowing Aristos has had sex with her sister was pretty icky and I think it was a big mistake on the part of the author to include this as a plot point. It added nothing to the story and detracted from my enjoyment. ’
I liked the inclusion of other issues and Aristos’ ultimate decision to be a ‘moral’ businessman. A good read. Would have liked a proper epilogue.
December 19, 2019
I thought this was going to be a great read by the synopsis .I love HQ novels because they are quick reads , but this one by a certain chapter just didn't cut it for me .
April 14, 2016
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The second in the ‘Kingdoms and Crowns series, this is Aleksandra’s story. The world building in this modern day fairytale is intricate and realistic. It’s easy to imagine the royal ball, which Aleksandra gatecrashes to find out the truth about her family. Aristos is arrogant, brooding and determined to find out why Aleksandra is prepared to lie to gain entrance to the glamorous party.
Thrown together by the threat of war and royal decree Aristos is duty bound to protect Aleksandra, or risk losing a lucrative business deal. Proximity and chemistry build the sexual tension between the naive princess and the cynical, reluctant bodyguard perfectly. The inevitable flash points between them are steamy and emotional; giving this sweet, forbidden romance a delicious twist. Aleksandra and Aristos avoid becoming stereotypical by their verbal interaction. The dialogue is a clever balance of angst and wit, and moves the story along nicely, whilst illustrating their complex and developing emotional journeys.
This story is pure escapism for lovers of modern fairytale romance, with enough realism to make it work. It reads well as a standalone but I’m definitely going to read the first book in the series and look forward to book three, the final chapter of the Akathinian Royals.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review
July 6, 2016
Claiming the Royal Innocent begins with a party at the palace that’s about to have more fireworks than they believed. Not that Aleksandra waltzes in and announces who she is to everyone…..But she does draw the attention of one Aristos Nicolades. Even though Aristos doesn’t consider himself and the king best friends, he knows that something is up with the beautiful woman before him. And, oh yeah, she’s not the person whose invitation was used to enter the party. Even though Aristos doesn’t think she’s dangerous, he knows that something is definitely up.
When Aleksandra does get her few moments with the king and tells him her story, she knows things will never be the same. Not only is she an actual princess, but she’s attracted to the one person that she knows down to her toes that she should NOT be. But, when war looms for Akathinia, King Nikandros asks Aristos to not only see to his new sister’s safety, but to take her his private island to keep the media at bay. AND, he issues a warning to Aristos: keep your hands to yourself. Yep……
Claiming the Royal Innocent is another great story by Jennifer Hayward. Aleksandra is as stubborn as she is beautiful and as loyal as she is fierce. Once she sets her sights on helping Aristos open up about his past and getting his project on Akathinia sewn up, she moves heaven and earth to do so. Aristos is your typical brooding rich guy and his backstory will make you feel for him. But when he finally opens up to Aleksandra, you know the two of them are perfect for each other and will be unstoppable. Jennifer Hayward has a knack for writing the stories that you WANT to read. There is humor, a nicely developed romance and a whole lot of hotness. And, the best part? They start from the very first word. There’s no filler, just an awesome story that will keep you turning the pages. If you’re looking for a quick and sexy read, you CANNOT go wrong with anything written by her. Phonebooks people!! (Which means I’d read the phonebooks if she wrote it! Ha!) Well done, Jennifer Hayward! Very, very well done!!!!!
When Aleksandra does get her few moments with the king and tells him her story, she knows things will never be the same. Not only is she an actual princess, but she’s attracted to the one person that she knows down to her toes that she should NOT be. But, when war looms for Akathinia, King Nikandros asks Aristos to not only see to his new sister’s safety, but to take her his private island to keep the media at bay. AND, he issues a warning to Aristos: keep your hands to yourself. Yep……
Claiming the Royal Innocent is another great story by Jennifer Hayward. Aleksandra is as stubborn as she is beautiful and as loyal as she is fierce. Once she sets her sights on helping Aristos open up about his past and getting his project on Akathinia sewn up, she moves heaven and earth to do so. Aristos is your typical brooding rich guy and his backstory will make you feel for him. But when he finally opens up to Aleksandra, you know the two of them are perfect for each other and will be unstoppable. Jennifer Hayward has a knack for writing the stories that you WANT to read. There is humor, a nicely developed romance and a whole lot of hotness. And, the best part? They start from the very first word. There’s no filler, just an awesome story that will keep you turning the pages. If you’re looking for a quick and sexy read, you CANNOT go wrong with anything written by her. Phonebooks people!! (Which means I’d read the phonebooks if she wrote it! Ha!) Well done, Jennifer Hayward! Very, very well done!!!!!
April 16, 2016
MS Hayward never disappoints me with her stories the characters are so real and energized with emotions that will have you falling into her stories and this one was a beauty the second book in the Kingdoms and Crown Series the setting fabulous and the hero and heroine so strong and vulnerable at the same time sit back and enjoy with you choice of beverage.
Aleksandra Dimitriou has just found out from her mother that she is a princess the secret daughter of a former Akathinia's King and as her father is ill Alex wants to meet him and arrives under a false name at the palace for a ball to celebrate Princess Stella's birthday, Alex is looking forward to meeting her siblings and her father but before she gets to this point she is met by the handsome Aristos Nicolades and the spark between them could light up the palace will this spark get stronger and change her life.
Aristos Nicolades has built his life up from nothing he has hotels and casinos all over the world he is a loner and that is they way he plans to stay there is a lot in his past that he needs to overcome but with plans for a new casino on Akathinia in motion and with the threat of military problems with a neighbouring Island security is tight and when he spots this beautiful young woman coming into the ball under a false name he is determined to get to the bottom of the story but the pull towards her is something that he has never felt before.
When Alex is acknowledged as Princess and with Aristos's talk Alex takes on the task but with war threatening she is sent to Aristos's Island to kept safe but she is off limits to him will they manage to keep their hands off each other I think not. This is a very moving and sensual sizzling story that will have you turning the pages as Aristos and Alex push each other to open up and then burn up the sheets with a beautiful romance and HEA I highly recommend this one and I am really looking forward to Stella's story in the next instalment.
Aleksandra Dimitriou has just found out from her mother that she is a princess the secret daughter of a former Akathinia's King and as her father is ill Alex wants to meet him and arrives under a false name at the palace for a ball to celebrate Princess Stella's birthday, Alex is looking forward to meeting her siblings and her father but before she gets to this point she is met by the handsome Aristos Nicolades and the spark between them could light up the palace will this spark get stronger and change her life.
Aristos Nicolades has built his life up from nothing he has hotels and casinos all over the world he is a loner and that is they way he plans to stay there is a lot in his past that he needs to overcome but with plans for a new casino on Akathinia in motion and with the threat of military problems with a neighbouring Island security is tight and when he spots this beautiful young woman coming into the ball under a false name he is determined to get to the bottom of the story but the pull towards her is something that he has never felt before.
When Alex is acknowledged as Princess and with Aristos's talk Alex takes on the task but with war threatening she is sent to Aristos's Island to kept safe but she is off limits to him will they manage to keep their hands off each other I think not. This is a very moving and sensual sizzling story that will have you turning the pages as Aristos and Alex push each other to open up and then burn up the sheets with a beautiful romance and HEA I highly recommend this one and I am really looking forward to Stella's story in the next instalment.
April 20, 2016
Claiming the Royal Innocent by Jennifer Hayward
This dynamic story is about FOUND, FORBIDDEN & FOREVER? It tells how Aleksandra Dimitriou had always thought her father was dead but her mother had not told her the truth. She had crashed a royal ball and wanted to find out the truth about her real father and family. She wanted to meet her siblings. Aleksandra had been told a lie about her father all her life. What her friend Kira had tossed away the invite but had told her all about it she had to retrieve that invite and crash the ball.
Aristos Nicolades was right behind her as she went through the line, and he did not say anything to her but after through the line he stood where he could see her. Where he could observe and see what she was really up to and take the necessary precautions if needed. Aristos knew she was not Kira since he knew her intimately.
Alex had mingled with her sister, Princess Stella and brother, King Nikandros and his wife Sophia.
She became thrust into the royal world under the protection of Aristos. He had orders to not touch the innocent Alex who was now a Princess. However he did not know how to calm those urges that rebellious Alex brought out.
This is a story about Alex going from a common person to a Princess. Aristos is sent to an island to protect Alex when there is a threat to her homeland. Alex proves to be feisty and Aristos finds that he can no longer stay away from her. Their one intimate escapade is captured in a paper that calls the two of them canoodling. Nik calls and states to Aristos that he has 60 seconds to explain to him what has gone on and why he should not come and kill him.
Jennifer Hayward is an excellent author who you feel as if you are one of the characters and can vision it all happening in front of you.
This dynamic story is about FOUND, FORBIDDEN & FOREVER? It tells how Aleksandra Dimitriou had always thought her father was dead but her mother had not told her the truth. She had crashed a royal ball and wanted to find out the truth about her real father and family. She wanted to meet her siblings. Aleksandra had been told a lie about her father all her life. What her friend Kira had tossed away the invite but had told her all about it she had to retrieve that invite and crash the ball.
Aristos Nicolades was right behind her as she went through the line, and he did not say anything to her but after through the line he stood where he could see her. Where he could observe and see what she was really up to and take the necessary precautions if needed. Aristos knew she was not Kira since he knew her intimately.
Alex had mingled with her sister, Princess Stella and brother, King Nikandros and his wife Sophia.
She became thrust into the royal world under the protection of Aristos. He had orders to not touch the innocent Alex who was now a Princess. However he did not know how to calm those urges that rebellious Alex brought out.
This is a story about Alex going from a common person to a Princess. Aristos is sent to an island to protect Alex when there is a threat to her homeland. Alex proves to be feisty and Aristos finds that he can no longer stay away from her. Their one intimate escapade is captured in a paper that calls the two of them canoodling. Nik calls and states to Aristos that he has 60 seconds to explain to him what has gone on and why he should not come and kill him.
Jennifer Hayward is an excellent author who you feel as if you are one of the characters and can vision it all happening in front of you.
April 18, 2016
Jennifer Hayward has added book 2 of 3 with " Claiming the Royal Innocent " and its amazing. Finding out that you have been lied to all your life and you are a princess and part of a Royal family is so difficult for Aleksandra Dimitriou to comprehend. So to see what her father and family look like she sneaks into a party given by the King and doesn't realize that the man staring at her from across the room is aware she is not who she says. That starts this incredible story with Aristos Nicolades , security and friend to the King confronting the intruder. Ms. Hayward has consistently written fantastic books and this is another example of her incredible writing. Its HOT, when Aristos has Aleksandra are sent to his island by the King to protect her as things are happening on her homeland. Things heat up on the island and even with Aristos warning to Aleksandra that sex with him will blow off the bedroom door, it isn't long before Aristos and Alex are found canoodling in the words of the press. Her brother the King calls Aristos and says "you have 60 seconds to explain why I shouldn't fly there right now and kill you". You will find that in all of Jennifer Haywards book she will put in some amazing lines that will stay with you for days and make you smile. Jennifer Hayward is such an amazing author that I find it so hard to write a review because I feel I have actually lived in her book and enjoyed it so much I cannot even find words other than AWESOME to describe the story. If you haven't read any of her books you are missing out on an incredibly talented author so read this book and go back and get all of her books as yours will go on the keeper shelf just as all hers are on mine. I feel that my future reviews for her books should just say " guaranteed fantastic book by Jennifer Hayward" enough said.
April 17, 2016
Wow, I was swept away with this story. From beginning to end, Jennifer Hayward captivated me—took me on an exciting journey where the worlds she’d created for her characters felt as real as day. Genuine emotions, flirty banter, engaging dialogue, deeply touching characters whose sizzling chemistry set the pages on fire and true talent on Ms. Hayward’s end makes: Claiming the Royal Innocent—the second book in the Kingdoms & Crowns trilogy—an exceptional story. Fast-paced and entertaining, this story should definitely be on top of your reading list. The moment Aristos Nicolades laid eyes upon the vision in the name of Aleksandra Dimitriou he knew she meant trouble…for him and King Nic of Akathina. But it is only after sharing a steamy kiss with the gorgeous Alex that Aristos is shocked when he discovers her true identity. Now that Alex is forbidden, Aristos knows better than crave to add fuel to the fire burning between them. However, when Alex is thrust under his care the last thing Aristos needs is to protect a woman who might be in danger—but is it from him or the neighboring king? Grab a copy of this delectable book and discover the answer for yourself.
Highly Recommended
5 Stars
May 1, 2016
The excitement of newly discovered relations and passion newly ignited, this story would keep you on the edge of the seat until you're done reading the last word.
Aleksandra recently discovered that she is a Royal, sister to the ruling monarch, and her wish to meet her father who she believed to be a businessman and long dead brings her to a the palace under the guise of another and be caught by none other than Aristos who happens to in charge, or his company rather, of security that night.
Aristos believes her story. Her uncanny resemblance to the current King does not even play a huge part in it as well.
With the lady installed in her right place as the princess of the nation, third in line for throne, the imminent of war with neighbouring island nation is on verge of happening. And thus all heirs could not be in the same geographical area.
Aristos takes Alesksandra to his island to keep her safe but passion flares and neither of them is safe from it or each other. As if that was not enough, paparazzi click an incriminating picture that only leads the way down the aisle to a happily ever after.
Aleksandra recently discovered that she is a Royal, sister to the ruling monarch, and her wish to meet her father who she believed to be a businessman and long dead brings her to a the palace under the guise of another and be caught by none other than Aristos who happens to in charge, or his company rather, of security that night.
Aristos believes her story. Her uncanny resemblance to the current King does not even play a huge part in it as well.
With the lady installed in her right place as the princess of the nation, third in line for throne, the imminent of war with neighbouring island nation is on verge of happening. And thus all heirs could not be in the same geographical area.
Aristos takes Alesksandra to his island to keep her safe but passion flares and neither of them is safe from it or each other. As if that was not enough, paparazzi click an incriminating picture that only leads the way down the aisle to a happily ever after.
April 14, 2016
The second installment in Hayward's Kingdom & Crowns series offers readers a glimpse into royal life and how they deal with a brewing royal scandal. We are drawn in by the secret we learn in the first chapter and enthralled to see how it plays out throughout the book.
Aleksandra Dimitriou has learned that she's the secret child of former King Gregorios of Akathinia. She finds a way to contact the royal family so she can meet her father who has been ill.
When the kingdom is threatened, Alex is put in the protective custody of Aristos Nicolades, whom she already shared a secret kiss with before he found out her identity. Though he's been given strict "hands off" orders, will the close quarters that is thrust upon them be too much temptation and have him facing the wrath of the reigning King if their affair is discovered?
Aleksandra Dimitriou has learned that she's the secret child of former King Gregorios of Akathinia. She finds a way to contact the royal family so she can meet her father who has been ill.
When the kingdom is threatened, Alex is put in the protective custody of Aristos Nicolades, whom she already shared a secret kiss with before he found out her identity. Though he's been given strict "hands off" orders, will the close quarters that is thrust upon them be too much temptation and have him facing the wrath of the reigning King if their affair is discovered?
hq-to-read
June 13, 2021Found
When Aleksandra Dimitriou is revealed as the secret daughter of Akathinia's former king, she's torn from her comfortable existence and thrust into the royal world…under the protection of Aristos Nicolades.
Forbidden
Aristos has orders not to touch the innocent princess, but beautiful Aleksandra calls to the rebellious urges that the self-made Greek tycoon thought he overcame long ago.
Forever?
As the heat of their desire rises, the rules begin to evaporate. It's soon clear that the person Aristos should be protecting Aleksandra from is himself!
When Aleksandra Dimitriou is revealed as the secret daughter of Akathinia's former king, she's torn from her comfortable existence and thrust into the royal world…under the protection of Aristos Nicolades.
Forbidden
Aristos has orders not to touch the innocent princess, but beautiful Aleksandra calls to the rebellious urges that the self-made Greek tycoon thought he overcame long ago.
Forever?
As the heat of their desire rises, the rules begin to evaporate. It's soon clear that the person Aristos should be protecting Aleksandra from is himself!
April 20, 2016
"Claiming the Royal Innocent (Kingdoms and Crowns #2)" by Jennifer Hayward is a wonderful, read alone, classic romance book. Aleksandra Dimitriou found out she was the illegitimate daughter of a king so she goes in search of her father and her family. Along her journey in Akathina she meets Aristos Nicolades who turns her world into an upside down fantasy of bodyguard meeting the lost princess. Their chemistry is undeniable and the romance is steamy. Loved it.
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