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The Royals of Monterra #3
Royal Games
Genesis Kelley didn’t just get her heart broken. The aspiring veterinarian had it crushed in front of millions of viewers on the dating reality show Marry Me. Now, just as she’s getting her life and dignity back together, her royal heartbreaker, Prince Rafael of Monterra, has landed in Frog Hollow, Iowa. And he’s renting out her aunt’s guest cottage.
Deceiving TV audiences for his brother’s sake cost Rafe the girl of his dreams. But he’s going to fix it, even if it means moving from his mountain-kingdom home to small-town Iowa. A prince doesn’t give up on his rightful princess—especially once he realizes Genesis is in deeper danger than she knows.
Between fixing her truck, whisking her off to Monterra for a whirlwind date, and charming the entire town, Rafe is thawing the ice around Genesis’s heart. Will it be enough to earn back her trust, protect her from her past—and sweep her into a real-life fairy tale?
Deceiving TV audiences for his brother’s sake cost Rafe the girl of his dreams. But he’s going to fix it, even if it means moving from his mountain-kingdom home to small-town Iowa. A prince doesn’t give up on his rightful princess—especially once he realizes Genesis is in deeper danger than she knows.
Between fixing her truck, whisking her off to Monterra for a whirlwind date, and charming the entire town, Rafe is thawing the ice around Genesis’s heart. Will it be enough to earn back her trust, protect her from her past—and sweep her into a real-life fairy tale?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 5, 2016
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July 12, 2016
Slight spoilers for the second book, Royal Chase.
I became an instant fan of Sariah Wilson after I read The Ugly Stepsister Strikes Back. So when this book became available to request on NetGalley, I knew I had to read it. Plus, it's a modern day fairy tale complete with royal princes mixed in with a dose of reality TV shenanigans.
Unfortunately, Royal Games didn't quite bring the same giddy fun as The Ugly Stepsister. It was okay. The main character Genesis was gorgeous (but doesn't know it) small-town girl who is kind and beloved by everybody. She used to be contestant of this reality show, much like the Bachelor. There she meets the bachelor, Rafe. But Rafe isn't just any other bachelor. He's a prince of Monterra and he has a twin, who is also the bachelor. Genesis and the rest of the contestants didn't know that they were royals and there are two of them.
Things got even more convoluted when one of the contestant, who Genesis became close to fell in love with the other twin. But since they both didn't know there were two of them, they thought they're both in love with the same person.
Sounds complicated, yes?
So at the start of the book, Genesis is back in her hometown, trying to pick up the pieces after being humiliated in front of millions of show watchers. Rafe came and groveled for forgiveness. And this is essentially where the book started.
First off, I loved the grovel. Rafe went far and beyond to try and earn Genesis' forgiveness. He was earnest and he felt sorry for what happened. Genesis, because of her background was having a hard time letting him back in, which was perfectly understandable, despite moments where I wanted to shake her for her stupid pride.
Second, Genesis was the perfect heroine. She's sort of an outsider. She's also very capable and she's nerdy, loyal, kind and gets along with everybody. And Rafe is a prince. Enough said.
But despite the seemingly perfect characters and angsty set-up, I can't seem to find it in me to care about these two characters. I just...I don't know why but I just didn't care if they get back together or not. And that's pretty much a death knell in book.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I became an instant fan of Sariah Wilson after I read The Ugly Stepsister Strikes Back. So when this book became available to request on NetGalley, I knew I had to read it. Plus, it's a modern day fairy tale complete with royal princes mixed in with a dose of reality TV shenanigans.
Unfortunately, Royal Games didn't quite bring the same giddy fun as The Ugly Stepsister. It was okay. The main character Genesis was gorgeous (but doesn't know it) small-town girl who is kind and beloved by everybody. She used to be contestant of this reality show, much like the Bachelor. There she meets the bachelor, Rafe. But Rafe isn't just any other bachelor. He's a prince of Monterra and he has a twin, who is also the bachelor. Genesis and the rest of the contestants didn't know that they were royals and there are two of them.
Things got even more convoluted when one of the contestant, who Genesis became close to fell in love with the other twin. But since they both didn't know there were two of them, they thought they're both in love with the same person.
Sounds complicated, yes?
So at the start of the book, Genesis is back in her hometown, trying to pick up the pieces after being humiliated in front of millions of show watchers. Rafe came and groveled for forgiveness. And this is essentially where the book started.
First off, I loved the grovel. Rafe went far and beyond to try and earn Genesis' forgiveness. He was earnest and he felt sorry for what happened. Genesis, because of her background was having a hard time letting him back in, which was perfectly understandable, despite moments where I wanted to shake her for her stupid pride.
Second, Genesis was the perfect heroine. She's sort of an outsider. She's also very capable and she's nerdy, loyal, kind and gets along with everybody. And Rafe is a prince. Enough said.
But despite the seemingly perfect characters and angsty set-up, I can't seem to find it in me to care about these two characters. I just...I don't know why but I just didn't care if they get back together or not. And that's pretty much a death knell in book.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2016
Genesis, I love you, but holy cow get over your stupidity for two freaking seconds you moron! At the quarter point, Genesis' entire objection to Rafe is "he's a lying liar who betrayed me." The guy who she acknowledges both internally and to friends. is sweet, kind, generous, and caring. Also a rich foreign prince who can make all her worries go away. Of which she has not a few. Which might have worked except here's what we know if you read the second book:
A) The show (of which, Genesis has seen every episode) is known for its twists and reveals.
B) Genesis' interactions on the show were chiefly with Rafe, not Dante.
So, lessee, he actually is a prince. And rich. And in the show to fall in love (which he obviously did). So essentially, the only lie he told was his name? Which, by the way, the very first flashback shows he reveals to her on the first day of the show. So the lie was that he's a twin.
Now, I'm not saying there couldn't be more to her objection. Only, we're in her perspective. So if there were more, shouldn't we know about it? Like, what betrayal? Just that he lied about, uh, being a twin? She felt humiliated for being lied to? On a show she knows extremely well that does that crap and agreed to be on, anyway? Or what about these hints about childhood trauma? They could make her hyper-sensitive to lies, right? Well, maybe, but if so, Wilson should stop being coy about it and tell us why that may be a big deal! But no, it's all vagueness and dramatic innuendo.
So my sympathy was short enough and I was hanging on, just barely, because I love absolutely everything else about Genesis and then . . . she decides "maybe he'll leave me alone if I start dating this obvious doucheweasel". Because that trick isn't a douche move on its own and I mean to both Rafe and the doucheweasel?!? I'm sorry, Sariah Wilson. You managed a salvageable story despite a ridiculous setup in Royal Chase. This story is an unsympathetic mess that managed to ruin a character I already loved and desperately wanted to see happy.
A) The show (of which, Genesis has seen every episode) is known for its twists and reveals.
B) Genesis' interactions on the show were chiefly with Rafe, not Dante.
So, lessee, he actually is a prince. And rich. And in the show to fall in love (which he obviously did). So essentially, the only lie he told was his name? Which, by the way, the very first flashback shows he reveals to her on the first day of the show. So the lie was that he's a twin.
Now, I'm not saying there couldn't be more to her objection. Only, we're in her perspective. So if there were more, shouldn't we know about it? Like, what betrayal? Just that he lied about, uh, being a twin? She felt humiliated for being lied to? On a show she knows extremely well that does that crap and agreed to be on, anyway? Or what about these hints about childhood trauma? They could make her hyper-sensitive to lies, right? Well, maybe, but if so, Wilson should stop being coy about it and tell us why that may be a big deal! But no, it's all vagueness and dramatic innuendo.
So my sympathy was short enough and I was hanging on, just barely, because I love absolutely everything else about Genesis and then . . . she decides "maybe he'll leave me alone if I start dating this obvious doucheweasel". Because that trick isn't a douche move on its own and I mean to both Rafe and the doucheweasel?!? I'm sorry, Sariah Wilson. You managed a salvageable story despite a ridiculous setup in Royal Chase. This story is an unsympathetic mess that managed to ruin a character I already loved and desperately wanted to see happy.
July 11, 2016
3.5 STARS
This is the third book in the The Royals of Monterra series and gives us Genesis's and Rafe's story. If you haven't read this series and plan on reading this as a standalone, it would work, but it would also be like reading half a book.
Genesis made her appearance in Royal Chase, where as a contestant on a Bachelor-type series, met and fell for Rafe, thinking him to be Dante the whole time. Little did she or the other contestants know that Rafe and Dante were actually twin princes of Monterra. Add to that, lemon, another contestant on the show and someone Genesis befriended, was also being wooed by Dante. Confusing? No. Hilarious? Yes.
In this book Rafe is back to convince Genesis that what happened between them all those months ago was real. He moves to Iowa, where Genesis lives, and immerses himself in her life so completely that she'd have no other choice but to give him another chance. A chance to explain, a chance to tell her how he feels.
This was sweet and had some pretty funny dialogue. It also had a bit of suspense surrounding Genesis and her past. She had issues stemming from her childhood and unfortunately for Rafe, these issues became the hallmark of genesis's behavior towards him. Rafe was amazing, of course. He and his brothers, Dante and Nico, are sexy, sweet and persistent.
While I enjoyed this, I also think the previous books were better. That's why I highly encourage anyone to read this series in order. The first book, Royal Date is my favorite. It was more intense, angsty in a good way and completely relatable. I never felt Kat was straining my patience. Even lemon in Royal Chase was understandable in her actions and thoughts.
While I understood Genesis had a traumatic past and had issues to contend with, I always felt that she pushed a little too much. Pushed for independence when it was childish to do so, pushed for perfection when it was unrealistic and pushed Rafe away when he did everything humanly possible to air out their grievances. All I'll say is that Rafe was a very, very patient man.
Of course, Genesis did manage to see the light and do what her heart was always telling her. I got her reluctance and hesitiation, but I'm glad she saw things for how they were and not how she feared. It'll be interesting to see if we get another book in this series, because these stories are great.
*Arc provided by the author through Netgalley and Montlake Romance*
This is the third book in the The Royals of Monterra series and gives us Genesis's and Rafe's story. If you haven't read this series and plan on reading this as a standalone, it would work, but it would also be like reading half a book.
Genesis made her appearance in Royal Chase, where as a contestant on a Bachelor-type series, met and fell for Rafe, thinking him to be Dante the whole time. Little did she or the other contestants know that Rafe and Dante were actually twin princes of Monterra. Add to that, lemon, another contestant on the show and someone Genesis befriended, was also being wooed by Dante. Confusing? No. Hilarious? Yes.
In this book Rafe is back to convince Genesis that what happened between them all those months ago was real. He moves to Iowa, where Genesis lives, and immerses himself in her life so completely that she'd have no other choice but to give him another chance. A chance to explain, a chance to tell her how he feels.
This was sweet and had some pretty funny dialogue. It also had a bit of suspense surrounding Genesis and her past. She had issues stemming from her childhood and unfortunately for Rafe, these issues became the hallmark of genesis's behavior towards him. Rafe was amazing, of course. He and his brothers, Dante and Nico, are sexy, sweet and persistent.
While I enjoyed this, I also think the previous books were better. That's why I highly encourage anyone to read this series in order. The first book, Royal Date is my favorite. It was more intense, angsty in a good way and completely relatable. I never felt Kat was straining my patience. Even lemon in Royal Chase was understandable in her actions and thoughts.
While I understood Genesis had a traumatic past and had issues to contend with, I always felt that she pushed a little too much. Pushed for independence when it was childish to do so, pushed for perfection when it was unrealistic and pushed Rafe away when he did everything humanly possible to air out their grievances. All I'll say is that Rafe was a very, very patient man.
Of course, Genesis did manage to see the light and do what her heart was always telling her. I got her reluctance and hesitiation, but I'm glad she saw things for how they were and not how she feared. It'll be interesting to see if we get another book in this series, because these stories are great.
*Arc provided by the author through Netgalley and Montlake Romance*
December 20, 2020
We first meet Genesis Kelley in Royal Chase as a contestant on the reality dating show Marry Me. After getting her heartbroken by Prince Rafe, she returns home to her small town of Frog Hollow, Iowa and tries to get her life back to normal. She does not expect Prince Rafael to follow her there and set up camp with the intent of winning her back. Sheesh, does that guy have an amazing amount of patience.
I loved returning to this fun world Ms. Wilson has created. I love that each book is unique and takes place in new settings, but still has the same feel and characters. I loved Frogs Hollow, it had the whole small-town charm going on. Surprisingly, Rafe fit right in. He easily sweeps the whole town off its feet! Which makes it all the harder for Genesis to stay mad at him. Boy, does she know how to stay mad though! I did want to shake her a few time and it did take awhile to get to that moment when she finally opens her eyes, but considering all she'd been through I actually thought her distrust and hesitancy was believable.
I thought this was a fun story, I enjoyed learning more about Genesis' past and what has made her who she is. I liked that it has some suspense and of course the setting and reunited with past characters. Overall, another very enjoyable read in the Royals of Monterra series.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: Very mild
Series: Book three, can stand well on its own. Reading book two is a good set-up to this one though and would probably be best to read in order.
I loved returning to this fun world Ms. Wilson has created. I love that each book is unique and takes place in new settings, but still has the same feel and characters. I loved Frogs Hollow, it had the whole small-town charm going on. Surprisingly, Rafe fit right in. He easily sweeps the whole town off its feet! Which makes it all the harder for Genesis to stay mad at him. Boy, does she know how to stay mad though! I did want to shake her a few time and it did take awhile to get to that moment when she finally opens her eyes, but considering all she'd been through I actually thought her distrust and hesitancy was believable.
I thought this was a fun story, I enjoyed learning more about Genesis' past and what has made her who she is. I liked that it has some suspense and of course the setting and reunited with past characters. Overall, another very enjoyable read in the Royals of Monterra series.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: Very mild
Series: Book three, can stand well on its own. Reading book two is a good set-up to this one though and would probably be best to read in order.
May 3, 2016
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
"Do you have a castle?" "I do." "And a pwincess?" "Someday." His gaze was intense, burning, and directed at me.
Wow that was a sweet story and fresh story, Royal Games is the third book of The Royals of Monterra series the author have created a very beautiful world and i'm a big for royal kind of stories
and this one didn't disappoint it had many great element to make an enjoyable reading from the background story 'till the characters.
This story has a strong message "Don't ever hurt the feelings of a woman...you are doomed.." yeap the heroine Genesis doesn't forgive and forget so easily after participating in the show "Marry me" Genesis left with a broken heart and a lot of anger towards Rafe (well he didn't have a choice, he had promised his twin Dante not to tell a soul that his Rafe and not Dante..) but i get it it's a hard pill to shallow probably i'd done the same if i was in her shoes maybe even worse. Rafe tried too hard with a lot patience to win her back thats why i was sometimes.. "Girl you see what his doing for you???... Give him another chance!!"
"He was breathing on that sensitive spot right behind my ear. His arm was against my waist as I kept his hand under the water, and he just seemed to radiate this warmth that I wanted to sink into."
Well she definitely wasn't immune to his charms, another thing that understand why she is so hard to get is she a secret a difficult and traumatized childhood...oh boy i surely didn't expect to learn something like that everything makes more sense now about the way she is and acts. Rafe on other hand can see her true self and his fascinated by it's purity and kindness, i found his actions very sweet towards her he never gave up... i totally adored that in him besides his dominant, sexy personality.
Overall it was a great book with a steady pace and the author have the ability to make you feel what the characters feel and that's something i liked very much, i certainly recommend it and i'm looking forward to see if there's a next book in the series.
May 2, 2016
From the moment Aunt Sylvia told Genesis that she had rented out the guest house, I knew this was going to be a fun ride filled with tension, romance, and swooning galore. And I wasn't wrong. Rafe and Genesis's story was just awesome.
Genesis is still hurt by Rafe's secret of his true identity that he hid from her while on the show Marry Me. Rafe is determined to earn her trust back and get the chance to explain why he did what he did.
Rafe just wanted to love and protect Genesis. She didn't want someone to control her, so his attempts to protect just reminded her of the control she was under when she was stuck in her former cult growing up. That whole storyline gave an added element of suspense that the other Royal books didn't have. It added something to the book, but I'm glad it didn't drag out at the end.
This was another great addition to the Royals of Monterra. Genesis was strong, especially considering what she had to overcome in her past, and an all around likable character. Rafe was just as swoon-worthy as his brothers. Strong, steady, gorgeous, protective, patient...he had everything Genesis needed. Especially the patience. I don't know how she withstood his love for so long...but I'm glad he stole kisses along the way. :) There were plenty of sigh-inducing swoony moments. Oh these Monterran princes...they know how to slowly win a girl's heart...and make her heart pound and toes curl in the process.
I have loved this series and can't wait for the sisters to eventually get their stories. I don't want the Monterra fun and romance to end and that way we can keep getting peeks into the lives of Nico/Kat, Dante/Lemon and Rafe/Genesis.
Well done, Ms. Wilson!! These books are keeping you on the list of my favorite go-to authors.
Source: NetGalley **I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions above are my own.**
Genesis is still hurt by Rafe's secret of his true identity that he hid from her while on the show Marry Me. Rafe is determined to earn her trust back and get the chance to explain why he did what he did.
Rafe just wanted to love and protect Genesis. She didn't want someone to control her, so his attempts to protect just reminded her of the control she was under when she was stuck in her former cult growing up. That whole storyline gave an added element of suspense that the other Royal books didn't have. It added something to the book, but I'm glad it didn't drag out at the end.
This was another great addition to the Royals of Monterra. Genesis was strong, especially considering what she had to overcome in her past, and an all around likable character. Rafe was just as swoon-worthy as his brothers. Strong, steady, gorgeous, protective, patient...he had everything Genesis needed. Especially the patience. I don't know how she withstood his love for so long...but I'm glad he stole kisses along the way. :) There were plenty of sigh-inducing swoony moments. Oh these Monterran princes...they know how to slowly win a girl's heart...and make her heart pound and toes curl in the process.
I have loved this series and can't wait for the sisters to eventually get their stories. I don't want the Monterra fun and romance to end and that way we can keep getting peeks into the lives of Nico/Kat, Dante/Lemon and Rafe/Genesis.
Well done, Ms. Wilson!! These books are keeping you on the list of my favorite go-to authors.
Source: NetGalley **I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions above are my own.**
July 4, 2016
3.75
This was a cute and sweet romance with a little suspense and a bit of angst. I enjoyed this one, it wasn't exactly what I was expecting but I still enjoyed it. I think I would've liked this one a little better had I read the other books in this series. Overall, I did enjoy this book and look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
This was a cute and sweet romance with a little suspense and a bit of angst. I enjoyed this one, it wasn't exactly what I was expecting but I still enjoyed it. I think I would've liked this one a little better had I read the other books in this series. Overall, I did enjoy this book and look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
October 7, 2016
I'm going to start out by saying I have not read the first 2 books in this series. They just didn't call to me. But when I read the synopsis for Royal Games I added it to my TBR list. This book can definitely stand alone. I was not confused at all.
Genesis has been back home in Iowa for 6 months after her appearance on the TV show Marry Me. Heartbroken and hurt she is not prepared to hear that her aunt has rented their guest house out to the one and only, Prince Rafael. Confused and angry she sets out to do whatever she can to ignore Rafe. Maybe if she ignores him long enough, he will go back to Monterra and leave her to her lonely, miserable life.
Rafe has loved Genesis from the very first moment he met her. He hates that he had to lie to her but he made a promise to his twin brother, Dante, and he never breaks his promises. He came to Frog Hollow to prove his love for her, to do whatever he can to gain her trust and forgiveness. But will it be too late? Will his deception to help his brother be the ultimate betrayal that ruins his happiness?
The relationship between Genesis and Rafe is full of ups and downs. But never underestimate a man in love. He will pull out all the stops he can to win back the woman he loves. With the help of the whole town, Genesis never stands a chance.
After reading all my friends' reviews for Royal Games I was extremely excited to read it. I really, really wanted to love it but alas, I am the minority for this one. I just ended up liking it. I had an extremely hard time connecting with Genesis. Yes, I know she had a tough childhood and yes, I know she has trust issues but she went way overboard. There were times I was scratching my head or rolling my eyes and asking, is she serious right now?! *le sigh* Another thing I didn't care for was the flashbacks. I am so NOT a flashback fan! I actually try and steer clear of them.
Even though his one was just a like, I'm definitely looking forward to reading more books by Sariah Wilson. After all I absolutely LOVED The Ugly Stepsister Strikes Back! SO good!
And of course we can't forget the casting! I have been dying to use this particular picture of our hero and the moment I read that he had glasses I just KNEW this one was a winner! Hehe. What do you think?
*I received a copy of the book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Genesis has been back home in Iowa for 6 months after her appearance on the TV show Marry Me. Heartbroken and hurt she is not prepared to hear that her aunt has rented their guest house out to the one and only, Prince Rafael. Confused and angry she sets out to do whatever she can to ignore Rafe. Maybe if she ignores him long enough, he will go back to Monterra and leave her to her lonely, miserable life.
Rafe has loved Genesis from the very first moment he met her. He hates that he had to lie to her but he made a promise to his twin brother, Dante, and he never breaks his promises. He came to Frog Hollow to prove his love for her, to do whatever he can to gain her trust and forgiveness. But will it be too late? Will his deception to help his brother be the ultimate betrayal that ruins his happiness?
The relationship between Genesis and Rafe is full of ups and downs. But never underestimate a man in love. He will pull out all the stops he can to win back the woman he loves. With the help of the whole town, Genesis never stands a chance.
After reading all my friends' reviews for Royal Games I was extremely excited to read it. I really, really wanted to love it but alas, I am the minority for this one. I just ended up liking it. I had an extremely hard time connecting with Genesis. Yes, I know she had a tough childhood and yes, I know she has trust issues but she went way overboard. There were times I was scratching my head or rolling my eyes and asking, is she serious right now?! *le sigh* Another thing I didn't care for was the flashbacks. I am so NOT a flashback fan! I actually try and steer clear of them.
Even though his one was just a like, I'm definitely looking forward to reading more books by Sariah Wilson. After all I absolutely LOVED The Ugly Stepsister Strikes Back! SO good!
And of course we can't forget the casting! I have been dying to use this particular picture of our hero and the moment I read that he had glasses I just KNEW this one was a winner! Hehe. What do you think?
*I received a copy of the book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
May 5, 2016
I've been waiting and watching NetGalley like a hawk for this book. It might be a bit of an obsession. But, stalking sometimes pays off because all of a sudden, one day, there it was. My heart was happy- giddy with excitement! Ummm, I love me some Monterra royals.
The last book left me happy but I knew fully well that Genesis and Rafe had a whole story to be told. It was on the outer reaches of the last book- there but not quite clear until the awful ending for them and me needing to know what happened. Thus, the stalking on NetGalley.
I was so glad that while this story started well after the last book ended, I had flashbacks and the backstory of the characters to help me understand them better. Otherwise, I would have been so, so annoyed by Genesis and her stubborn refusal of Rafe. Well, I kind of was anyway. She won't even let Rafe explain anything! That's just not nice, Genesis. Rafe is so charming and kind. His kindness overflows to everyone he meets. I was half in love with him myself. Genesis has some major hangups. Valid hangups, but still the main conflict in the book.
I loved how the story unfolded for me. There was sparky fireworks going off everywhere and the attraction was tangible which only added to the satisfaction I was feeling all the way through. I loved the added bit of light suspense and how I kept thinking "it" was always going to happen. This was another yummy addition to this series that I'm in love with.
Content: clean (some passionate kissing)
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
The last book left me happy but I knew fully well that Genesis and Rafe had a whole story to be told. It was on the outer reaches of the last book- there but not quite clear until the awful ending for them and me needing to know what happened. Thus, the stalking on NetGalley.
I was so glad that while this story started well after the last book ended, I had flashbacks and the backstory of the characters to help me understand them better. Otherwise, I would have been so, so annoyed by Genesis and her stubborn refusal of Rafe. Well, I kind of was anyway. She won't even let Rafe explain anything! That's just not nice, Genesis. Rafe is so charming and kind. His kindness overflows to everyone he meets. I was half in love with him myself. Genesis has some major hangups. Valid hangups, but still the main conflict in the book.
I loved how the story unfolded for me. There was sparky fireworks going off everywhere and the attraction was tangible which only added to the satisfaction I was feeling all the way through. I loved the added bit of light suspense and how I kept thinking "it" was always going to happen. This was another yummy addition to this series that I'm in love with.
Content: clean (some passionate kissing)
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
June 20, 2016
I RECEIVED AN E-ARC OF THIS BOOK FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH NET GALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR MY HONEST REVIEW!
I have enjoyed every one of the author's Royals of Monterra series, but this one blew them all away! I really enjoyed how much I could relate to Genesis, but I also enjoyed seeing the couples from the previous books as well in small snippets of their lives.
Genesis was a very hardworking woman, perhaps doing too much in an effort to please everyone around her, due to issues in her past. What woman isn't like that at some point or another in their lives? What made me fall totally in love with Genesis was her total fandom status. She's an avid World of Warcraft player, even running the same class and specialization I do, which made her awesome in my book. However, it was her love of Star Trek and many other things Geek that made her my favorite heroine of the series!
Rafe was a bit aloof and cool for me, so he took a bit for me to warm up to. Due to the issues in Genesis' past, the author had to walk a pretty fine line between protective and controlling with him and she struck a good balance with it overall. Granted, he did make some mistakes with it, but it showed him to be flawed and imperfect, making him more realistic in my eyes.
All things considered, this is my favorite book of the series, and I highly recommend both it and the entire series to anyone looking for a clean romance with a bit of a fairy tale twist to it!
I have enjoyed every one of the author's Royals of Monterra series, but this one blew them all away! I really enjoyed how much I could relate to Genesis, but I also enjoyed seeing the couples from the previous books as well in small snippets of their lives.
Genesis was a very hardworking woman, perhaps doing too much in an effort to please everyone around her, due to issues in her past. What woman isn't like that at some point or another in their lives? What made me fall totally in love with Genesis was her total fandom status. She's an avid World of Warcraft player, even running the same class and specialization I do, which made her awesome in my book. However, it was her love of Star Trek and many other things Geek that made her my favorite heroine of the series!
Rafe was a bit aloof and cool for me, so he took a bit for me to warm up to. Due to the issues in Genesis' past, the author had to walk a pretty fine line between protective and controlling with him and she struck a good balance with it overall. Granted, he did make some mistakes with it, but it showed him to be flawed and imperfect, making him more realistic in my eyes.
All things considered, this is my favorite book of the series, and I highly recommend both it and the entire series to anyone looking for a clean romance with a bit of a fairy tale twist to it!
April 25, 2017
I only read about 15% of this book and am done. I read the first two and enjoyed them, but this seems like the first two all over again and I think the leading lady is crazy stupid and her reason for being upset at the cute amazing prince who showers her with love and everything she wants is just asinine. Just can't waist my time especially when I know exactly what is going to happen, and I mean exactly.
September 6, 2016
This is another great book but I didn't love it quite as much as I did the first two in this series. Not sure why but notwithstanding I can still recommend it as it is a fun book with likable characters.
Content: Clean but with some innuendo
Source: Netgalley
Content: Clean but with some innuendo
Source: Netgalley
March 9, 2023
The road to love isn't ever easy. Genesis has a very traumatic past and lying is a deal breaker. Rafe has his reasons for deceit, but isn't able to explain them. And all that leads us to a very emotionally charged story of love, determination, and growth.
This story checks all the boxes for me:
☑️royalty
☑️reality tv
☑️swoon and magnificent chemistry
☑️challenges to overcome
☑️fierce persistence
☑️multi-dimensional characters
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Content: flashbacks to cult life/child abuse (not overly graphic); mild language; mild+ romance
*I received a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
This story checks all the boxes for me:
☑️royalty
☑️reality tv
☑️swoon and magnificent chemistry
☑️challenges to overcome
☑️fierce persistence
☑️multi-dimensional characters
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Content: flashbacks to cult life/child abuse (not overly graphic); mild language; mild+ romance
*I received a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
October 6, 2016
I couldn't make myself finish this book. Up until 61 % all I read was how this Prince moves into the girl's farm to grovel, so he can win the girl back. Now why does he have to grovel you may ask? Well because he "deceived" her in a bachelor type reality show in which they both participated. But that didn't even happen in this book! It happened in the previous book, (which incidentally was much better than this one). BTW, said "deception" wasn't even that bad, it was a twist in the show planned by the producers, but whatever.
So this book starts when the Prince, who by the way is a Jack of all trades, who can fix a car, do carpentry work, chop wood like a lumberjack, take care of horses, milk cows, (because what self respecting Prince doesn't do those things, right?) is a genius software programmer and video game developer, an absolute gentleman, AND looks like an Adonis, of course; comes into town to try to win the girl back, saving the town's economy from collapsing by starting a software company to employ all the people there, and winning everyone except the girl who is immature, petty, self centered and is just rude and mean to him.
Hey, I think I just made it sound really exciting!! NOT.
Really, there's not real plot, the book is one of the most boring things I've read in a while. It's not even really bad as it is just dull.
But maybe I just didn't make it to the good part. Maybe it was going to pick up after this. I don't really care. This was as exciting as watching C Span on a Friday night.
So this book starts when the Prince, who by the way is a Jack of all trades, who can fix a car, do carpentry work, chop wood like a lumberjack, take care of horses, milk cows, (because what self respecting Prince doesn't do those things, right?) is a genius software programmer and video game developer, an absolute gentleman, AND looks like an Adonis, of course; comes into town to try to win the girl back, saving the town's economy from collapsing by starting a software company to employ all the people there, and winning everyone except the girl who is immature, petty, self centered and is just rude and mean to him.
Hey, I think I just made it sound really exciting!! NOT.
Really, there's not real plot, the book is one of the most boring things I've read in a while. It's not even really bad as it is just dull.
But maybe I just didn't make it to the good part. Maybe it was going to pick up after this. I don't really care. This was as exciting as watching C Span on a Friday night.
May 8, 2016
I was given a e-copy to read via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I have been a fan of all the Royals of Monterra books and this is no exception. The strength of the female protagonist and no-nonsense nature allowed humor and stubbornness to shine through her rebuffs of the Prince's advances. This made it so much more enjoyable than a stereotypical "fairy tale" romance. There were times I felt the plot could have moved a little more quickly, but good things do come to those who wait, I suppose. Would absolutely recommend this book and hope Ms. Wilson continues the stories of all those involved in the Monterra universe.
June 11, 2017
Another great one in this series. Loved the characters. There is a lot of hardship in the past for both H/h that had to be dealt with. Glad it had a happy ending, and can't wait to read more from the royals of Monterra.
Moral Note: Some brief mild language, some innuendos & kissing, some mild violence, and child abuse.
Moral Note: Some brief mild language, some innuendos & kissing, some mild violence, and child abuse.
July 6, 2016
This was a fun quick read. I think that Rafe was a very patient man. I look forward to the next book in the series.
November 20, 2016
DNF at at 44%
October 4, 2016
Read this book a while ago and forgot to review!
Love this series so much!! READ IT!
Love this series so much!! READ IT!
April 18, 2023
Just as entertaining as it was to read it.
June 22, 2016
3 super sweet stars!
I believe this is the third book in this series. While I read it as a standalone, I think it would be enjoyed more if you read it as part of the series.
Set up: Humiliated and heartbroken after an embarrassing fallout on a bachelor-like tv show, Genesis returns to her life on a farm in Iowa trying to put it all past her. Only Rafe, the one who broke her heart and deceived her on national television, has rented out the guesthouse for a year with the intention of winning her back. Rafe loves Genesis and will not give up on what they have. Will Genesis forgive him or push him away?
Hero: 4/5 stars! The H was wonderful. Rafe was so in love with Genesis and would not give up on her. This H is not a bad boy in any sense and is a prince! I loved how devoted he was!
Heroine: 3/5 stars! Genesis was not my favorite. She wouldn’t give Rafe an inch which really started to bother me. She held a grudge until the very end.
Plot: 3/5 stars! Liked the premise of the book. I would have liked a stronger heroine, and more time during the story where they were actually together. Most of the story was Rafe chasing Genesis and Genesis ignoring him and telling him to go away. I believe the story could have benefited if they were a couple longer.
Sex Scenes: N/A – This is a clean romance.
What I loved: The hero never gave up on the heroine. He was devoted, loyal, and wanted to prove to her he could be the man she thought he was.
What I disliked: Honestly, the clean romance part. I’m a dirty girl, and I like my smut. While I overall enjoyed this book, I probably wouldn’t have requested it if I had known it was clean. I wonder what that says about me…?
Will I read this author again? Most likely not due to my personal preferences, but still a good story.
In short: A squeaky clean second chance romance that will leave you satisfied knowing they got their HEA.
I received this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Spoiler shit:
There is nothing. Unless you have a problem with the heroine going on a date with a loser because she’s trying to prove to herself and everyone else that she has moved on (but she hasn’t).
I believe this is the third book in this series. While I read it as a standalone, I think it would be enjoyed more if you read it as part of the series.
Set up: Humiliated and heartbroken after an embarrassing fallout on a bachelor-like tv show, Genesis returns to her life on a farm in Iowa trying to put it all past her. Only Rafe, the one who broke her heart and deceived her on national television, has rented out the guesthouse for a year with the intention of winning her back. Rafe loves Genesis and will not give up on what they have. Will Genesis forgive him or push him away?
Hero: 4/5 stars! The H was wonderful. Rafe was so in love with Genesis and would not give up on her. This H is not a bad boy in any sense and is a prince! I loved how devoted he was!
Heroine: 3/5 stars! Genesis was not my favorite. She wouldn’t give Rafe an inch which really started to bother me. She held a grudge until the very end.
Plot: 3/5 stars! Liked the premise of the book. I would have liked a stronger heroine, and more time during the story where they were actually together. Most of the story was Rafe chasing Genesis and Genesis ignoring him and telling him to go away. I believe the story could have benefited if they were a couple longer.
Sex Scenes: N/A – This is a clean romance.
What I loved: The hero never gave up on the heroine. He was devoted, loyal, and wanted to prove to her he could be the man she thought he was.
What I disliked: Honestly, the clean romance part. I’m a dirty girl, and I like my smut. While I overall enjoyed this book, I probably wouldn’t have requested it if I had known it was clean. I wonder what that says about me…?
Will I read this author again? Most likely not due to my personal preferences, but still a good story.
In short: A squeaky clean second chance romance that will leave you satisfied knowing they got their HEA.
I received this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Spoiler shit:
There is nothing. Unless you have a problem with the heroine going on a date with a loser because she’s trying to prove to herself and everyone else that she has moved on (but she hasn’t).
August 4, 2016
Genesis had just returned home after nine hours of travel. She was living with her aunt Sylvia as her mother had passed away. Her aunt acted very anxious and she then told Genesis she had rented out the guest house . Genesis was happy until she found out who had rented it. Awhile back her aunt had talked Genesis into auditioning for a reality show called Marry Me. Genesis worried she would be found but it had been eleven years and the people Genesis was afraid of didn’t believe in electricity . Her aunt assured her there would be no problems. Genesis had fallen for the male in the show then she found out he was a prince. But he had a twin brother and he was the one Genesis had fallen for and she wanted no lying man. His name was Rafe and now he was here and rented the guesthouse for a full year. Genesis and her aunt needed all the money they could get if they wanted to keep there home and not sell off any of the land. Rafe had tried to apologize to Genesis but she didn’t want to hear it. It had been six months since the show but Genesis still reacted to Rafe and Genesis was not happy about that.Genesis felt annoyed and stupid as alot of her anger had dispersed and she felt better just being near Rafe. Rafe rented the guesthouse to get the chance to explain to her why he had done what he did on the show. Genesis still reacted to Rafe and she wasn’t sure if she was more mad at him or herself for that, Genesis couldn’t seem to tell people no when they wanted her help and Rafe had asked if she had learned how to say no yet. Whitney was Genesis’s best friend . Rafe wants to Genesis to believe what happened months ago was real. Genesis had grown up in a cult and knew all about being controlled and lied to and refused ever to be controlled again.
I like this story alot. This story is part of a series and I hadn’t read the books before and I advise you to read them in order to bring everything together. I understood why Genesis was so upset with Rafe after being humiliated in front of thousands of people on tv but at least Rafe truely cares and wants to make things right. I loved the ups and downs in this storyand with Rafe and Genesis. I recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
I like this story alot. This story is part of a series and I hadn’t read the books before and I advise you to read them in order to bring everything together. I understood why Genesis was so upset with Rafe after being humiliated in front of thousands of people on tv but at least Rafe truely cares and wants to make things right. I loved the ups and downs in this storyand with Rafe and Genesis. I recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
October 24, 2019
Genesis made me SO ANGRY. I can not believe how many times she declined additional protection from Rafe when SHE KNEW that psycho knew where she was. I said "you dumb bitch...you dumb DUMB bitch" so many times as I listened to this audiobook that I'm sure the people on the highway with me for my commute to and from work thought I had road rage.
Also, with Genesis being a survivor of such horrible trauma, her severe lack of safety planning was legit scary. How, Sway?!?! HOW?!?!?! It would have made more sense to me if she was hyper aware of her surroundings at all times, especially after she got that postcard, but that man walked into a small town surprise party and no one, not even Genesis, noticed the new face???? To the point where he bragged to her about it????
Also, what was going on in the years between her escape/rescue and her going on the show? She took a self defense class and got some mase? That's it? She didn't get counseling outside of the local pastor??? At all??? You are telling me this girl was so scared to leave that house that her aunt had to home school her for years before she got up the gumption to go to high school and her aunt didn't think "Hey, Genesis might benefit from seeing a licensed professional counselor? Perhaps we could safety plan together so she feels safer??"
I just...I can't with Genesis and her whole situation.
Also, with Genesis being a survivor of such horrible trauma, her severe lack of safety planning was legit scary. How, Sway?!?! HOW?!?!?! It would have made more sense to me if she was hyper aware of her surroundings at all times, especially after she got that postcard, but that man walked into a small town surprise party and no one, not even Genesis, noticed the new face???? To the point where he bragged to her about it????
Also, what was going on in the years between her escape/rescue and her going on the show? She took a self defense class and got some mase? That's it? She didn't get counseling outside of the local pastor??? At all??? You are telling me this girl was so scared to leave that house that her aunt had to home school her for years before she got up the gumption to go to high school and her aunt didn't think "Hey, Genesis might benefit from seeing a licensed professional counselor? Perhaps we could safety plan together so she feels safer??"
I just...I can't with Genesis and her whole situation.
May 10, 2016
LOVED this book! This is book 3 in the series (but is a stand alone novel) and follows Genesis after the reality tv show debacle that crushed her spirit in book 2. She ran back home to a small town in Iowa to nurse her wounds and return to real life. Then, when she least expected it, Rafe returned. Because of Genesis's history, she will not tolerate a liar and Rafe told a huge lie on national television.
As we learn more about Genesis, Rafe slowly starts to thaw the ice around her heart. But Genesis's history is struggling to become her present....
Each book in this series is better than the one that came before it. The author has found a way to blend a fun love story with real world problems and mixed in reality television. If you have not yet read one of her books, you are missing something special. Even though it is a stand alone novel, you really owe it to yourself to read them all.
I have added the author to my must read authors' list.
As we learn more about Genesis, Rafe slowly starts to thaw the ice around her heart. But Genesis's history is struggling to become her present....
Each book in this series is better than the one that came before it. The author has found a way to blend a fun love story with real world problems and mixed in reality television. If you have not yet read one of her books, you are missing something special. Even though it is a stand alone novel, you really owe it to yourself to read them all.
I have added the author to my must read authors' list.
July 1, 2016
Quick, clean romance with a great mystery and a ton of humor. This is the story of Genesis and Rafe who have to overcome fear and learn to trust in order to fight for their love. Since this is book three in the series and, it seems, pretty closely related to book 2, there are several flashbacks to what was happening to them (rather than the characters who book two was about) making this book a great stand-alone and probably even better if you've read the first two (which I haven't but plan to as some point). The author does a great job building the sexual chemistry/tension between Genesis and Rafe while still keeping the story clean. The nerd references were awesome, especially for a closet nerd and the one liners are great. The secondary characters make this book even better. Definitely interested in the next book to see some of the future for the characters.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher and author on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher and author on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2016
Having read book one and two in The Royals of Monterra series, (which I loved and gushed about) I had high expectations going into the third. I actually wonder if that made a difference in my over all satisfaction rating. I'm not giving this a strong 5 stars like the other two. Sure it had witty writing and enjoyable secondary characters. I loved the shout outs to the first two books. I liked Genesis and Rafe quite a bit. I loved all the wooing ways Rafe tried to soften Genesis' heart. It just felt a little more forced in the drama department.
I'm sad about this because I actually really connected to these two characters in the second book.
Having said that, it's a good strong 4 stars and a nice way to spend an afternoon.
Rating: 4+
Content: Violence, abusive images (non-sexual), kissing
Source: Netgalley
I'm sad about this because I actually really connected to these two characters in the second book.
Having said that, it's a good strong 4 stars and a nice way to spend an afternoon.
Rating: 4+
Content: Violence, abusive images (non-sexual), kissing
Source: Netgalley
July 16, 2016
While you don't have to read Books 1 & 2 to enjoy this book, I'm glad I did! After Book 2, I was excited to read to find out how Rafe wins back Genesis. This book did not disappoint.
Rafe and Genesis have both been through some dark times. We got a lot of Genesis' back story in this book which is helpful to understand why she mistrusts men so much. We also got a lot of flashbacks to some of her dates with Rafe during the reality show. It was fun watching the whole town fall in love with Rafe when she thought the town would be on her side. Small town Iowa is a lot different from Monterra and it was fun to watch Rafe adapt and help the townspeople. I loved Max and Aunt Sylvia, too - I felt like they added to the story. It was fun getting to know some of the people in town, too!
Content: Clean
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Rafe and Genesis have both been through some dark times. We got a lot of Genesis' back story in this book which is helpful to understand why she mistrusts men so much. We also got a lot of flashbacks to some of her dates with Rafe during the reality show. It was fun watching the whole town fall in love with Rafe when she thought the town would be on her side. Small town Iowa is a lot different from Monterra and it was fun to watch Rafe adapt and help the townspeople. I loved Max and Aunt Sylvia, too - I felt like they added to the story. It was fun getting to know some of the people in town, too!
Content: Clean
Source: Kindle Unlimited
September 14, 2016
I really enjoyed reading the ‘Royals of Monterra’ series! This is the third book in the series and it is Genesis and Rafe’s story. The story mentions some characters from the previous two books, but it can be read as a stand-alone book. If you like to read a sweet, fairy-tale princess story that is well written – this is the book for you!
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
August 23, 2016
WOW! I'm so glad I read this book. I couldn't stand her in the other book. I'm so glad I read this one to see Genesis. I felt for her. I was frustrated, but I for one understand her and really enjoyed this book. Deep and sexy. The story is all about the journey and hers is a journey.
May 8, 2016
Loved Genesis and Rafe!! This is the first novel by Sarah Wilson that I have read, and it will definitely not be my last! All romance fans should hands down add this to their "must read" list!
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