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A Royal Love Story #1
An American Cinderella
"I'd give up my whole kingdom to be with you. I want to be your Prince Charming."
Aria has a big heart but bigger problems. Her whole life is a mess thanks to her controlling stepmother. But when she's knocked over- literally- by the hottest man she's ever had the pleasure of tangling up her body with, everything changes.
Henry Prescott, second-string rugby player for the Paradisa Royals, is funny, sweet, charming, and oh-so-sexy. He's got a rock hard body and tackles her in bed as fiercely as he tackled her in the park. Knowing nothing about rugby, but absolutely intoxicated by his accent, she finds herself falling for him.
There's only one problem: Henry Prescott doesn't exist.
The man she thinks she loves is actually Prince Henry, second in line for the throne of the nation of Paradisa. He's the man who Aria's entire department has to impress for trade relations. And that makes Aria's stepmother's plans even more dangerous.
He's the man who could destroy her world or make all her dreams come true.
He lied about being a prince... did he also lie about being in love?
NYT Bestseller Krista Lakes brings you this brand new sweet-and-sexy royal romance. This standalone novel will have you cheering for an American princess's happily ever after.
Aria has a big heart but bigger problems. Her whole life is a mess thanks to her controlling stepmother. But when she's knocked over- literally- by the hottest man she's ever had the pleasure of tangling up her body with, everything changes.
Henry Prescott, second-string rugby player for the Paradisa Royals, is funny, sweet, charming, and oh-so-sexy. He's got a rock hard body and tackles her in bed as fiercely as he tackled her in the park. Knowing nothing about rugby, but absolutely intoxicated by his accent, she finds herself falling for him.
There's only one problem: Henry Prescott doesn't exist.
The man she thinks she loves is actually Prince Henry, second in line for the throne of the nation of Paradisa. He's the man who Aria's entire department has to impress for trade relations. And that makes Aria's stepmother's plans even more dangerous.
He's the man who could destroy her world or make all her dreams come true.
He lied about being a prince... did he also lie about being in love?
NYT Bestseller Krista Lakes brings you this brand new sweet-and-sexy royal romance. This standalone novel will have you cheering for an American princess's happily ever after.
276 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2018
711 people are currently reading
836 people want to read
About the author
Krista Lakes
89 books885 followersKrista Lakes is a writer of romances that leave you feeling good and always have a happily ever after. She has two boys and a husband that keep her busy, not to mention two cats and a dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
October 31, 2018
Cinderella was never as good as this.
This was a very sweet story and totally a retelling of Cinderella. Some changes but the evil stepmother is really evil. I hated her. You really feel her vileness as she blackmails the h. I really liked the h. She was was a perfect match for the Prince, oops I mean the H. Honestly they were all too good to be true. I loved Gus the tough guard, the Senator aka the Fairy Godmother, and her friend Jacqui. She was really loved. The evil stepmother tries to force the heroine to steal documents so she can sell them for cash. The h doesn't want to do that and tries to hold the step mom off so she can come up with a solution. In the meantime she meets the H and it was instalove so be ready for it. There are many twists and turns and I really enjoyed it. Definitely a fairy tale and not something that can really happen. It stretches your imagination. But I loved it When I would read This author again. And of course they lived happily ever after.
This was a very sweet story and totally a retelling of Cinderella. Some changes but the evil stepmother is really evil. I hated her. You really feel her vileness as she blackmails the h. I really liked the h. She was was a perfect match for the Prince, oops I mean the H. Honestly they were all too good to be true. I loved Gus the tough guard, the Senator aka the Fairy Godmother, and her friend Jacqui. She was really loved. The evil stepmother tries to force the heroine to steal documents so she can sell them for cash. The h doesn't want to do that and tries to hold the step mom off so she can come up with a solution. In the meantime she meets the H and it was instalove so be ready for it. There are many twists and turns and I really enjoyed it. Definitely a fairy tale and not something that can really happen. It stretches your imagination. But I loved it When I would read This author again. And of course they lived happily ever after.
April 21, 2018
I enjoyed this royal and modern take on Cinderella. I was a little let down by the build up of chemistry between the main characters. Also the ending wasn't as explicit as I would've liked. And when I mean by explicit, I'm apparently more bloodthirsty than I initially thought, because I would've loved to have seen how the villain went down.
June 7, 2021
'Daría todo mi reino para estar contigo. Quiero ser tu príncipe azul.'
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers
•Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen
An American Cinderella de Krista Lakes
Argumento:
Aria tiene un gran corazón pero problemas mayores. Toda su vida es un desastre gracias a su madrastra controladora. Pero cuando es derribada, literalmente, por el hombre más sexy con el que ha tenido el placer de enredar su cuerpo, todo cambia.
Henry Prescott, jugador de rugby de segunda fila de los Paradisa Royals, es divertido, dulce, encantador y muy sexy.
Tiene un cuerpo duro como una roca y la aborda en la cama con tanta fiereza como lo hizo en el parque. Sin saber nada de rugby, pero absolutamente intoxicada por su acento, se enamora de él.
Solo hay un problema: Henry Prescott no existe.
El hombre que cree que ama es en realidad el príncipe Enrique, el segundo en la fila del trono de la nación de Paradisa. Es el hombre al que todo el departamento de Aria debe impresionar por las relaciones comerciales. Y eso hace que los planes de la madrastra de Aria sean aún más peligrosos.
Él es el hombre que podría destruir su mundo o hacer realidad todos sus sueños.
Mintió acerca de ser un príncipe...¿también mintió acerca de estar enamorado?
Mí humilde opinión:
Este era el cuento de Cenicienta llevado a tiempos modernos que pintaba muy bien pero al final quedó en solo bien.
Lo que no me gustó:
Voy a empezar por Audrey, la madrastra, porque es lo que más me molestó de todo. Desde que aparece por primera vez hasta el final no sé quién es esta mujer, cómo terminó con el padre de Aria, porqué odia tanto a su hijastra, cómo tiene tanto poder como para hacer echar del trabajo a Aria, siguió siendo un enigma que manipulaba como quería a la heroína.
Audrey era un intento de mala, llegó a darme bronca todo lo que hacía a su hijastra? Sip... SI TAN SOLO con lo que la chantajeara fuera más impactante y creíble. El padre tuvo un romance mientras estaba casado, él era un político con una reputación intachable (existen de esos?) Y hasta sacó una ley, bueno, el tipo era un buenazo... La madrastra quiere utilizar eso, lo cuál sucedió hace tiempo, para que Aria robe unos documentos de valor.
Me pareció que como extorsión era débil, no creo que ese fuera un gran escándalo que durará mucho o arruinaría a Aria. Qué político alguna vez no tuvo amoríos? Me pareció exagerado que Aria reaccionara desesperaba por eso a tal punto que robaría para su madrastra y hacer lo que sea que a esta se le ocurriera.
Bueno, con todo el tema del gobierno, la realeza involucrada y esta mujer queriendo vender estos documentos creí que la historia tendría algo de acción y espionaje la haría más intrigante pero me equivoqué.
Lo siguiente que me molestó fue el personaje de Aria, la mayor parte del tiempo me exasperaba, creí que sería más inteligente y detendría lo del chantaje por su cuenta pero no, se la pasa suspirando por Henry y envitando enfrentamientos con su madrastra. Parecía muy inmadura su forma de ser, y cómo todos parecían conocer a Henry y ella no? Podía ser tan inocente y despistada? Cómo no se daba cuenta lo que sucedía a su alrededor cuando estaba con él?
Las escenas sexys y candentes me encantan pero este libro tuvo toneladas de ellas. La pareja tenía química y hubo momentos lindos pero una vez que Aria y Henry se juntan todo era casi sobre sexo.
Lo que me gustó:
Henry era un héroe lindo, cómo al final le revela a Aria quien es fue dulce, que tuviera claro que la quería y no importaban los de afuera o lo que él era sino lo que sentía por ella. Pensé que habría alguna pelea tonta pero no fue así, se soluciona fácil, y no esperé que ella le contara lo del chantaje y que él fuera tan comprensivo y la ayudara con eso
Así que este libro me gustó por momentos, me gustó que la historia ocurriera en Washington, disfruté con las descripciones de lugares y sus monumentos históricos, tenía detalles y personajes cumpliendo sus roles que hacían sentir como si estuviera leyendo Cenicienta.
Añadido a lo que no me gustó esta el final que si bien se resolvió bien fue algo precipitado. Muy lindo se casaron en el país de él y comieron perdices pero... No sé si Aria al final cumplió con sus sueños de ser senadora y cambiar el mundo, qué le pasó a la madrastra, nunca conocí a la hermanatra que robó el trabajo a Aria, me quedaron muchas cosas colgando.
Así pues la historia cayó en un 'Ok pero...'. pasando por alto ciertas cosas lo disfruté de todas formas.
May 1, 2018
3,5
Adoro o argumento de realeza, Cinderela moderna e foi por esse fato que comecei a ler essa história, que é bem leve e agradável de ler.
Esse foi o primeiro livro da autora que li e gostei bastante. Mesmo envolvendo crimes, espionagem política e chantagem, a história foi contada com suavidade e mesclada com um romance bem fofinho de um príncipe de um país distante e uma garota comum que trabalha para o governo americano.
Como nem tudo são flores, o livro peca em alguns pontos: O casal possui uma química quase instantânea mas ela não foi aprofundada, acho que daria para despertar mais faíscas na relação deles...
A irmã de criação só é mencionada e não cria tanto atrito na vida da personagem;
O final da madrasta não é detalhado depois que suas maldades são descobertas. Me pareceu que a autora ficou com receio de arriscar um pouco mais, deixando a história bonitinha demais, fugindo das partes feias e correndo com outras.
Mesmo com esses problemas o livro com certeza e uma boa pedida para ler entre histórias mais profundas e dramáticas. O inglês empregado pela autora é bem básico, tornando a leitura fácil de acompanhar para leitores de outros idiomas e pessoas que estão aprendendo a língua.
Arc gentilmente cedido pela autora e Give-me books. Obrigada.
Adoro o argumento de realeza, Cinderela moderna e foi por esse fato que comecei a ler essa história, que é bem leve e agradável de ler.
Esse foi o primeiro livro da autora que li e gostei bastante. Mesmo envolvendo crimes, espionagem política e chantagem, a história foi contada com suavidade e mesclada com um romance bem fofinho de um príncipe de um país distante e uma garota comum que trabalha para o governo americano.
Como nem tudo são flores, o livro peca em alguns pontos: O casal possui uma química quase instantânea mas ela não foi aprofundada, acho que daria para despertar mais faíscas na relação deles...
A irmã de criação só é mencionada e não cria tanto atrito na vida da personagem;
O final da madrasta não é detalhado depois que suas maldades são descobertas. Me pareceu que a autora ficou com receio de arriscar um pouco mais, deixando a história bonitinha demais, fugindo das partes feias e correndo com outras.
Mesmo com esses problemas o livro com certeza e uma boa pedida para ler entre histórias mais profundas e dramáticas. O inglês empregado pela autora é bem básico, tornando a leitura fácil de acompanhar para leitores de outros idiomas e pessoas que estão aprendendo a língua.
Arc gentilmente cedido pela autora e Give-me books. Obrigada.
August 18, 2018
An American Cinderella is a cruelty-free modern retelling of the famous story. When I say cruelty-free I mean that we don't see the evil stepmother get what she deserves in a major way. It was underwhelming. Also, I wanted to see the step-sister getting what she deserved since she was working with her mother. At least we got the prince. He was a constant in the story and I liked him a lot. He was dropping hints that could have revealed who he truly was from early on, but Aria spent a lot of time dealing with everything else. The plot didn't have much drama and the romance between the characters was simple and very normal if you ask me. I liked that and I could almost forget who Henry really was. He and Aria were good people, but I fell for Aria a little bit more. I could call her dormant, but I think that her personality fitted the story and it made her more like Cinderella. In the end, she did the right thing and that's all that matters to me. I wonder if anyone else will get a story, like Henry's brother for example or if the book will be a stand-alone story.
February 19, 2021
Weak characters in a supposedly fairytale romance that didn't have much spark for this reader. Aria, the main female character, was whiny, flip-flopping and untrue to her character description. The evil stepmom gig didn't work for me either. I was truly disappointed. Throughout the book, I felt it had so much more potential that never gained life.
I read the second story in this series first which is usually not my norm -- but this time around I am glad that I did. It was better.
I read the second story in this series first which is usually not my norm -- but this time around I am glad that I did. It was better.
October 20, 2018
I always like a good Cinderella story. The premise of this one was interesting, and overall it was a cute and an easy read. However, I ended being frustrated with Aria because of how helpless she was and the circumstances surrounding how her mother manipulated her. I definitely would NOT label this as a book with a strong-female lead.
I was also somewhat unhappy with the ending because it was so abrupt and because of the following line:
That being said, it was $1.99, and I actually finished it, so take that for what you will...
I was also somewhat unhappy with the ending because it was so abrupt and because of the following line:
That being said, it was $1.99, and I actually finished it, so take that for what you will...
August 29, 2018
Very cute.
An American Cinderella: A Royal Love Story is obviously a Cinderella re-telling. The chemistry between the two main characters was alright - nothing really special about it. The evil stepmother was a bitch and I hated her so much. You didn't really see the step-sister and all you really know about her is that she's a birdbrain kind of woman who only gets a job because of her mother.
Aria, aka Cinderella, is living her best life. She has her dream job... for about a day. WHY? Well because her stepmom deemed her unfit for that special position and wanted her back at her old job. Scanning mysterious documents that she wanted information off of. Oh yeah, you guessed her. Her stepmom was trading secret information with companies so that they made money off of their "deals". So yeah, I hated her stepmom so much.
Now the romance, if you could call that, was just meh. I liked them together and everything.. but I didn't really feel the sparks between them. This also made me think of it being turned into a Hallmark or Lifetime kind of movie as well. Which, again... means MEH. Or cheesy?
In the end, the ending was just okay. Yeah, they got their happily ever after and everything. The stepmom went to jail for what she did. It was okay, predictable even.. but also kind of bit anti-climactic? I guess I was just expecting some kind of spectacular ending. I liked it enough though.
An American Cinderella: A Royal Love Story is obviously a Cinderella re-telling. The chemistry between the two main characters was alright - nothing really special about it. The evil stepmother was a bitch and I hated her so much. You didn't really see the step-sister and all you really know about her is that she's a birdbrain kind of woman who only gets a job because of her mother.
Aria, aka Cinderella, is living her best life. She has her dream job... for about a day. WHY? Well because her stepmom deemed her unfit for that special position and wanted her back at her old job. Scanning mysterious documents that she wanted information off of. Oh yeah, you guessed her. Her stepmom was trading secret information with companies so that they made money off of their "deals". So yeah, I hated her stepmom so much.
Now the romance, if you could call that, was just meh. I liked them together and everything.. but I didn't really feel the sparks between them. This also made me think of it being turned into a Hallmark or Lifetime kind of movie as well. Which, again... means MEH. Or cheesy?
In the end, the ending was just okay. Yeah, they got their happily ever after and everything. The stepmom went to jail for what she did. It was okay, predictable even.. but also kind of bit anti-climactic? I guess I was just expecting some kind of spectacular ending. I liked it enough though.
January 3, 2021
2.5 Stars
I love a re-telling, but this one didn’t work for me. It’s supposed to be for adults, but it had a juvenile feel, and the conflict/manipulation was so implausible that it was tough to get invested. Ari is either very dumb or wimpy (maybe both 😊) and it was hard to root or sympathize for her when her issues were self-imposed and silly.
I also didn’t feel the chemistry between Henry and Aria and the ending was rushed and not very satisfying.
Bottom Line- I didn’t feel the romance. I expect epic love in my fairytales, and Ari and Henry felt like lusty teenagers. I found Ari very annoying and skimmed loads. Also, her BFF’s name is Jaqui not Jacqui which threw me off the entire book. 🤣
I love a re-telling, but this one didn’t work for me. It’s supposed to be for adults, but it had a juvenile feel, and the conflict/manipulation was so implausible that it was tough to get invested. Ari is either very dumb or wimpy (maybe both 😊) and it was hard to root or sympathize for her when her issues were self-imposed and silly.
I also didn’t feel the chemistry between Henry and Aria and the ending was rushed and not very satisfying.
Bottom Line- I didn’t feel the romance. I expect epic love in my fairytales, and Ari and Henry felt like lusty teenagers. I found Ari very annoying and skimmed loads. Also, her BFF’s name is Jaqui not Jacqui which threw me off the entire book. 🤣
May 1, 2018
An American Cinderella is a great modern retelling of the classic Cinderella fairy tale. Aria was fired from her job by her stepmother so her stepsister could work for as a Senator’s aid and then got sent back to her old job. Aria's stepmother starts blackmailing her to do what she wants or she will make her pay and set Aria up for the fall so Aria tries to find a way out of all of it. During this time, Aria meets this sweetheart of a man named Henry-a very handsome Paradisa rugby player . While falling in love, Aria continues to try to ward off her stepmother. Can Aria and henry make it thru all the secrets and blackmail? Only way to find out is to read this thoroughly enchanting modern day fairytale romance that enchants and seduces. I loved the plot and the fresh way Ms. Lakes wrote this story and how the characters interacted. I look forward to the next read by Krista Lakes.
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
January 22, 2019
Ughhh, don't know what to say.. It wasn't bad but I had to put it down several times and start after some time.. Got frustrated a few times.. But guess what, I finished it successfully..
July 26, 2021
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars! Cinderella romance. An ok read.
May 3, 2018
Fairytaley but just not for me
Aria’s stepmother is a manipulating evil witch with a b. She is ruining Aria’s life. Controlling it. Taking away the job she loves and is good at. Then she literally runs into Henry and her life is about to change for the better. Now this is definitely fairytaley, but somehow I disliked the way the story went. It didn’t hit the mark for me. It didn’t come through.
There was just something about the writing style that threw me off. I can’t really put my finger on it; I guess the language usage was too simple, adolescent somehow. Or trying too hard, maybe. I just know I could not get used to it. I could not get past it. So even though the story itself seemed promising, it didn’t hold my interest.
I’m not saying others wouldn’t enjoy it. Younger readers might like it. Judging by the reviews so far, most other readers liked or loved it. It just wasn’t for me. I’m sorry for this harsh review, because I know the author worked hard to write this book and I really don’t like giving a bad review. But I have to be honest.
Aria’s stepmother is a manipulating evil witch with a b. She is ruining Aria’s life. Controlling it. Taking away the job she loves and is good at. Then she literally runs into Henry and her life is about to change for the better. Now this is definitely fairytaley, but somehow I disliked the way the story went. It didn’t hit the mark for me. It didn’t come through.
There was just something about the writing style that threw me off. I can’t really put my finger on it; I guess the language usage was too simple, adolescent somehow. Or trying too hard, maybe. I just know I could not get used to it. I could not get past it. So even though the story itself seemed promising, it didn’t hold my interest.
I’m not saying others wouldn’t enjoy it. Younger readers might like it. Judging by the reviews so far, most other readers liked or loved it. It just wasn’t for me. I’m sorry for this harsh review, because I know the author worked hard to write this book and I really don’t like giving a bad review. But I have to be honest.
November 6, 2018
The love story is sweet but the heroine is hard to like. Aria lets herself be manipulated by her stepmother. She doesn’t stand up for herself until the end of the novel and I found her choices unrealistic for someone vying to be in the senate.
May 8, 2018
Who isn't in the mood for a royal wedding right now? OK, maybe not me cos truthfully I'm too jealous of Meghan Markle to get excited about the wedding,but still, the whole idea of an American becoming of princess. Its a total Squee moment.
This book is very much the same. It is a modern take on the Cinderella story. Aria is our Cinderella. Audrey is her wicked step mother and by wicked stepmother, I mean a nasty, rotten, evil piece of work. Then there's Henry, the prince in a rugby players clothing.
Henry Henry Henry, how do I love thee, let me count the ways. I love that he was totally solicitous of Aria at all times. I love that he didn't experience some of the things that mere mortals are used to having like grilled cheese.
This book is part fairy tale part wonderful romance, the kind that most girls and heck, some of us older ladies still dream of having. Surely there's a prince of some unknown country that will fall for me? Right? Where is he? Why can't he find me right now?
It even comes with a ball and a runaway girl. The only thing that didn't happen was the dress turning to rags or a limo turning into a pumpkin. No bibity bobity boos either, but this isn't Disney.
I loved Aria's innocence, though that innocence isn't what you'd expect from a family that was in politics. That's about the only thing about the book that was too much of a fairy tale for me. Anyone that had been in DC for any amount of time couldn't have the innocence she had.
So I just kept my focus on loving Henry, a guy that knocked her off her feet and fell in love with her. Oh and the chemistry between the two is spot on and the heat is off the charts!
A perfect summer read!
This book is very much the same. It is a modern take on the Cinderella story. Aria is our Cinderella. Audrey is her wicked step mother and by wicked stepmother, I mean a nasty, rotten, evil piece of work. Then there's Henry, the prince in a rugby players clothing.
Henry Henry Henry, how do I love thee, let me count the ways. I love that he was totally solicitous of Aria at all times. I love that he didn't experience some of the things that mere mortals are used to having like grilled cheese.
This book is part fairy tale part wonderful romance, the kind that most girls and heck, some of us older ladies still dream of having. Surely there's a prince of some unknown country that will fall for me? Right? Where is he? Why can't he find me right now?
It even comes with a ball and a runaway girl. The only thing that didn't happen was the dress turning to rags or a limo turning into a pumpkin. No bibity bobity boos either, but this isn't Disney.
I loved Aria's innocence, though that innocence isn't what you'd expect from a family that was in politics. That's about the only thing about the book that was too much of a fairy tale for me. Anyone that had been in DC for any amount of time couldn't have the innocence she had.
So I just kept my focus on loving Henry, a guy that knocked her off her feet and fell in love with her. Oh and the chemistry between the two is spot on and the heat is off the charts!
A perfect summer read!
May 7, 2018
4 fairytale stars!! This book took a classic very well known fairytale and modernized the retelling, it was wonderful!!
👑 This was a spin off the original fairytale “Cinderella”. You will see some similarities and names and situations. I love it. I am a fan of Cinderella and I have always wanted a newer version that still played off the original. And that is exactly what you get!!
Aria is this book’s modern version of Cinderella. She is the somewhat insecure, daughter of a prominent man, beautiful, hard working, and loyal woman. Who is tortured by the evil step mother, Audrey. And guess what she has a step sister named, Anastasia. Oh these women make me so angry. Aria is so perfect compared to those two.
Henry is a charming, loyal, sexy, friendly, respectfully beautiful rugby player. I even like Andre, though I don’t know much about him. Also, his brothers intrigued me but you don’t really get much from them either (it’s not a story about them so what did I expect, lol). I think Henry is my current book boy toy!!
I read this book in one sitting and it was a great read. I am
disappointed in the ending. Hoping a little more would have happened to the bad guys but with that being said this isn’t about that. This book was more of a beating the odds kind of love story. I think if you are a fan of the original you will really enjoy this version.
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
👑 This was a spin off the original fairytale “Cinderella”. You will see some similarities and names and situations. I love it. I am a fan of Cinderella and I have always wanted a newer version that still played off the original. And that is exactly what you get!!
Aria is this book’s modern version of Cinderella. She is the somewhat insecure, daughter of a prominent man, beautiful, hard working, and loyal woman. Who is tortured by the evil step mother, Audrey. And guess what she has a step sister named, Anastasia. Oh these women make me so angry. Aria is so perfect compared to those two.
Henry is a charming, loyal, sexy, friendly, respectfully beautiful rugby player. I even like Andre, though I don’t know much about him. Also, his brothers intrigued me but you don’t really get much from them either (it’s not a story about them so what did I expect, lol). I think Henry is my current book boy toy!!
I read this book in one sitting and it was a great read. I am
disappointed in the ending. Hoping a little more would have happened to the bad guys but with that being said this isn’t about that. This book was more of a beating the odds kind of love story. I think if you are a fan of the original you will really enjoy this version.
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
May 3, 2018
An American Cinderella was a sweet & spicy read. Henry Prescott falls immediately for Aria Ritter after he tackles her to the ground by mistake. It’s not long before Aria is head over heels for the handsome stranger and thus begins a sweet story of love, secrets and betrayal.
Aria Ritter loves her job working as an assistant for a powerful senator. But when Aria’s evil stepmother uses her “behind-the-scenes” influence to put Aria in a tenuous position to provide her with secret information, Aria is angry & scared. She doesn’t want her late father’s memory to be tarnished based on the information Aria’s stepmother threatens to release to the public. So she reluctantly agrees to do her stepmother’s bidding. All the while, racking her brain to figure out a way out of this terrible situation.
Henry Prescott isn’t who he portrays himself to be when he tackles Aria to the ground by mistake. He is instantly smitten and goes out of his way to keep seeing Aria as much as possible. But he also has secrets that he’s not yet ready to disclose to Aria. Will his secrets threaten the burgeoning love between Aria & Henry or will Aria’s unknown betrayal threaten his livelihood?
This was a very nice play on my favorite fairytale and the first time I’ve read Krista Lakes. I will definitely be checking out this author’s other works.
~Megan
Aria Ritter loves her job working as an assistant for a powerful senator. But when Aria’s evil stepmother uses her “behind-the-scenes” influence to put Aria in a tenuous position to provide her with secret information, Aria is angry & scared. She doesn’t want her late father’s memory to be tarnished based on the information Aria’s stepmother threatens to release to the public. So she reluctantly agrees to do her stepmother’s bidding. All the while, racking her brain to figure out a way out of this terrible situation.
Henry Prescott isn’t who he portrays himself to be when he tackles Aria to the ground by mistake. He is instantly smitten and goes out of his way to keep seeing Aria as much as possible. But he also has secrets that he’s not yet ready to disclose to Aria. Will his secrets threaten the burgeoning love between Aria & Henry or will Aria’s unknown betrayal threaten his livelihood?
This was a very nice play on my favorite fairytale and the first time I’ve read Krista Lakes. I will definitely be checking out this author’s other works.
~Megan
April 22, 2018
An American Cinderella is a sugar coated fairytale retelling that left me grinning and happy! There is something about taking an old fairytale and making it modern, Krista Lakes did it with style. I loved seeing the little nods to the original but I also loved her take on the classic Cinderella. I do believe this evil stepmother is worse than the original. Aria is a breath of fresh air who tries to be honorable and noble. Her stepmother makes it very hard. Henry is a perfect gentleman with a very sexy side. Together they have an adorable but steamy romance!
Krista Lakes drew me in with her retelling and writing. I actually wish there was a Paradisa so I could go and find myself a prince. The love that bloomed was one that was true and real. The understanding of ramifications was astounding to see and made me happy Henry was such a great guy. Their loved bloomed over weeks of spending time together and it was deliciously sweet. I hope we get more fairytale retelling from Krista Lakes, because she adds so much originality to them while also keeping to the theme and bringing us another version of beloved characters from the original!
Krista Lakes drew me in with her retelling and writing. I actually wish there was a Paradisa so I could go and find myself a prince. The love that bloomed was one that was true and real. The understanding of ramifications was astounding to see and made me happy Henry was such a great guy. Their loved bloomed over weeks of spending time together and it was deliciously sweet. I hope we get more fairytale retelling from Krista Lakes, because she adds so much originality to them while also keeping to the theme and bringing us another version of beloved characters from the original!
April 22, 2018
I think every little girl grows up loving Cinderella and dreaming of Prince Charming at some point, and An American Cinderella gives all us grown up little girls a whole new prince to daydream about. An adorably sweet new spin on a classic. This book is jam packed with romance that will melt your heart and a familiar tale that keeps you cheering for that happily ever after.
Aria is a total sweetheart. Trying to follow in her father’s footsteps, she’s worked hard to climb the political ladder with the goal of making the world a better place and honoring her father’s legacy. Unfortunately her stepmother is of the Evil variety and has very different plans in mind. When she’s meets the incredibly handsome and wonderfully sweet Henry their whirlwind romance is on the line along with Aria’s future.
There was not one thing I didn’t like about Aria and Henry. These two are exactly what every fairytale romance should be. This Prince is the king of swoon and hot enough to to have you reaching for an ice cold drink.
Aria is a total sweetheart. Trying to follow in her father’s footsteps, she’s worked hard to climb the political ladder with the goal of making the world a better place and honoring her father’s legacy. Unfortunately her stepmother is of the Evil variety and has very different plans in mind. When she’s meets the incredibly handsome and wonderfully sweet Henry their whirlwind romance is on the line along with Aria’s future.
There was not one thing I didn’t like about Aria and Henry. These two are exactly what every fairytale romance should be. This Prince is the king of swoon and hot enough to to have you reaching for an ice cold drink.
May 4, 2018
An American Cinderella by Krista Lakes is a sweet re-telling of the famed fairy-tale classic Cinderella. The narrator, Aria Ritter, takes us along on her journey of love with Henry Prescott as she deals with her stepmother's rule over her and her life.
This book in a bit of an insta-love story with no teasing wait on the first kiss. While the first bit of the story felt a bit dragging, it blossomed into a really charming story. The romance was soft and sweet. There was a bit of a build up to the ball, making it part of the climax of the story. And how there was a rich story behind the ball and its significance.
Krista Lakes had plenty of realistic feeling characters for her readers to fall in love with. Such as Gus - one of my favorite characters in the story.
This book in a bit of an insta-love story with no teasing wait on the first kiss. While the first bit of the story felt a bit dragging, it blossomed into a really charming story. The romance was soft and sweet. There was a bit of a build up to the ball, making it part of the climax of the story. And how there was a rich story behind the ball and its significance.
Krista Lakes had plenty of realistic feeling characters for her readers to fall in love with. Such as Gus - one of my favorite characters in the story.
May 3, 2018
It is so nice that we have modern fairy tales for us, the grown up little girls. I enjoyed reading this version that was placed in DC in the center of the politics world.
The storyline was great, and it simply grips you till the end and that insta chemistry between Aria and Henry is like and sunshine after a rainy day.
All characters were well build, I even hated the stepmother because I have a feeling that this version is more evil than the original one, but I was satisfied with the ending when she was caught with the documents.
I will give just one hint about what will happen ...it has HEA ending. Now go and get yourself a copy and get lost in the world of this modern tale
The storyline was great, and it simply grips you till the end and that insta chemistry between Aria and Henry is like and sunshine after a rainy day.
All characters were well build, I even hated the stepmother because I have a feeling that this version is more evil than the original one, but I was satisfied with the ending when she was caught with the documents.
I will give just one hint about what will happen ...it has HEA ending. Now go and get yourself a copy and get lost in the world of this modern tale
April 27, 2018
This was a great retelling of the classic Cinderella fairy tale. Although I think in some ways this book made the wicked stepmother even worse than the original! There are just two things I think could have helped this story. First, I wish the author had written the evil stepsister into the story instead of just having her mentioned occasionally. Secondly, I would have like details on what happened to the stepmother after she was caught with the documents.
Aria and Henry made a terrific couple, perfect for a fairy tale romance. Hope to see stories in the future for Henry's brothers.
Aria and Henry made a terrific couple, perfect for a fairy tale romance. Hope to see stories in the future for Henry's brothers.
April 28, 2018
What a beautiful story! A quick romantic read that warms your heart! With all of the royal wedding talk going on in the world, this book may seem predictable but nothing can take away from the amazing characters and the laugh out loud moments! I just fell in love with Henry from the first page! Aria was a lucky girl! I'm glad the evil stepmother didn't win in the end! I would definitely love a book about Jacqui and Andre next!!!
May 2, 2018
Krista Lakes has written a wonderful modern version of Cinderella. I loved reading and following Aria and Henry's story. I look forward to reading more by this author.
May 7, 2018
This is a wonderful modern day Cinderella story with the fairytale happily ever after ending. I fell in love with the Prince Charming and I think you will too.
It is a stand alone book.
I have read several books by Krista Lakes and enjoyed every book. Her books are quick to read and leave me anxiously awaiting her next book.
It is a stand alone book.
I have read several books by Krista Lakes and enjoyed every book. Her books are quick to read and leave me anxiously awaiting her next book.
August 13, 2018
3.5, a bit insta-lovey, but really cute Royal adaptation of Cinderella all the same
August 6, 2018
I'm having a hard time finding the right words for me to address the problem I had with this book. While I love a fairytale retelling, this just didn't do it for me. Everything felt forced, repetitive, too unbelievable, completely fake. I really wished I had loved it, on the surface it seemed to have all the right ingredients but then it just didn't follow through.
May 10, 2018
Terrible
Writing style was juvenile. I really didn’t like anyone in this book. Story is implausible and Aria as the main character was weak and annoying.
Writing style was juvenile. I really didn’t like anyone in this book. Story is implausible and Aria as the main character was weak and annoying.
January 11, 2021
Hello lovely book nerds!
So my first read of 2021 was An American Cinderella by Krista Lakes. It was a retelling of the classic tale: girl with an evil stepmother who controls her life, falls in love with Prince Charming; and in this case, a real prince. It was a quick and easy read, however, I have some major issues with it. SPOILERS BELOW SO READ AT YOUR OWN PERIL.
First, I was reading on my Kindle and I know eBook editions often have spelling and grammar mistakes, but this book had a TON and, for someone like me who has a major pet peeve when it comes to correct grammar usage, this detracted a lot from the story itself. Every time I came upon a mistake, I would sit and think about that mistake even pages later, so that was not fun for me. That's probably something that doesn't bother a lot of you and you're probably thinking "what a freak! Just correct it in your mind and move on! No need to get so hung up on it." And you would be right - I wish I could just move on, but I can't! It's just a quirky flaw I have.
Next, I love steamy scenes as much as the next girl when I'm reading, but when that becomes the central story and it's basically all sex that moves the plot along, I have a problem. Obviously, I was super happy when our main character Aria and sexy prince (although Aria didn't know it at the time) Henry first got it on, but then that's all it really became about. Aria couldn't go through the day without thinking about Henry and getting all hot and heavy with him. I like a strong female lead, something Aria was definitely not. She was one of those characters who completely changed her life for some boy. Yes that "some boy" was a Prince, but she didn't know that. And then when she did find out, she gave up on her dream of working in the government to help bring change to the world. The whole story Aria was talking/thinking about her future in government, she was so passionate about it. But then abruptly she gives up on everything she's worked for and toward to move to another country and marry some guy who proposed after knowing her for about a month.
That brings me to my next point. The initial attraction was definitely there and felt on both sides, but the whole story was basically in the span of a month. For me, that is way too fast for characters to fall in love and get married (although the actual ceremony took place in the epilogue which was one year later). There's really no room for them to really get to know each other and feel those deep feelings.
Then the ending was so abrupt. We don't get to see what happened to the evil stepmother or the stepsister which we never even meet despite her being a big thorn in Aria's backside. Everything bad that was happening in Aria's life (that had been happening since her father's death) was pushed to the side and completely forgotten about as the happy ever after ending was tied up in a neat bow. I do love a happy ending, but I still want to see the nitty gritty of the bad coming to a conclusion as well.
All in all, it was a cute story and a fun, modern retelling of Cinderella, but it lacked depth and was very surface-level love. I would recommend this book if you're looking for pure entertainment and not looking to think at all.
So my first read of 2021 was An American Cinderella by Krista Lakes. It was a retelling of the classic tale: girl with an evil stepmother who controls her life, falls in love with Prince Charming; and in this case, a real prince. It was a quick and easy read, however, I have some major issues with it. SPOILERS BELOW SO READ AT YOUR OWN PERIL.
First, I was reading on my Kindle and I know eBook editions often have spelling and grammar mistakes, but this book had a TON and, for someone like me who has a major pet peeve when it comes to correct grammar usage, this detracted a lot from the story itself. Every time I came upon a mistake, I would sit and think about that mistake even pages later, so that was not fun for me. That's probably something that doesn't bother a lot of you and you're probably thinking "what a freak! Just correct it in your mind and move on! No need to get so hung up on it." And you would be right - I wish I could just move on, but I can't! It's just a quirky flaw I have.
Next, I love steamy scenes as much as the next girl when I'm reading, but when that becomes the central story and it's basically all sex that moves the plot along, I have a problem. Obviously, I was super happy when our main character Aria and sexy prince (although Aria didn't know it at the time) Henry first got it on, but then that's all it really became about. Aria couldn't go through the day without thinking about Henry and getting all hot and heavy with him. I like a strong female lead, something Aria was definitely not. She was one of those characters who completely changed her life for some boy. Yes that "some boy" was a Prince, but she didn't know that. And then when she did find out, she gave up on her dream of working in the government to help bring change to the world. The whole story Aria was talking/thinking about her future in government, she was so passionate about it. But then abruptly she gives up on everything she's worked for and toward to move to another country and marry some guy who proposed after knowing her for about a month.
That brings me to my next point. The initial attraction was definitely there and felt on both sides, but the whole story was basically in the span of a month. For me, that is way too fast for characters to fall in love and get married (although the actual ceremony took place in the epilogue which was one year later). There's really no room for them to really get to know each other and feel those deep feelings.
Then the ending was so abrupt. We don't get to see what happened to the evil stepmother or the stepsister which we never even meet despite her being a big thorn in Aria's backside. Everything bad that was happening in Aria's life (that had been happening since her father's death) was pushed to the side and completely forgotten about as the happy ever after ending was tied up in a neat bow. I do love a happy ending, but I still want to see the nitty gritty of the bad coming to a conclusion as well.
All in all, it was a cute story and a fun, modern retelling of Cinderella, but it lacked depth and was very surface-level love. I would recommend this book if you're looking for pure entertainment and not looking to think at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2018
Lakes delivers a perfectly timed contemporary political spin on the timeless classic Cinderella. This was a nice mesh of classic tale and current DC dirty underbelly blackmail. The only thing it didn't have was a dash of magic to turn a pumpkin into a carriage. Harry and Megan's wedding is ramping up on the news every day and this story falls right into a fairytale letting the reader imagine themselves being swept up by a foreign prince as well.
I liked the altruistic nature of Aria and her love of country and her father's memory and legacy. A difficult set of ideals to hold onto in the current political climate, nevertheless she has until her stepmother begins to manipulate her career for her own personal gain, landing Aria in a impossible and potentially illegal position. Aria finds herself back in the first job she had as a rookie in the DC political machine, having been replaced by her worthless step-sister at her plum spot reporting to her favorite senator. Enter big Henry crashing into to an unaware Aria lost in thought at the Washington Monument. He isn't entirely truthful about well anything about himself aside from his interest in Aria and his fondness for rugby, his family and country.
I like Henry from the start. I could see the appeal of meeting a pretty girl who doesn't know your station and doesn't treat you as such, only as everyone else. He doesn't out right lie about himself only over generalizes his family business. I enjoyed the sweet getting to know you period and the inevitable attention and steamy times. Lakes gave Henry and Aria good chemistry and plenty of opportunities to grow to love each other. It's a whirlwind but not insta-love.
The story is strong and I could feel the frustration and helplessness from Aria in protecting her father legacy from scandal. It only takes one news cycle to ruin a life's work in DC. I was satisfied with the way the story wrapped up and stayed true to the original tale within modern constraints and no magic. Lol
If I had to pick one thing that I didn't enjoy it was the over descriptiveness of some areas of the book. I would encourage anyone who enjoys a good happily ever after to 1-click right now.
I liked the altruistic nature of Aria and her love of country and her father's memory and legacy. A difficult set of ideals to hold onto in the current political climate, nevertheless she has until her stepmother begins to manipulate her career for her own personal gain, landing Aria in a impossible and potentially illegal position. Aria finds herself back in the first job she had as a rookie in the DC political machine, having been replaced by her worthless step-sister at her plum spot reporting to her favorite senator. Enter big Henry crashing into to an unaware Aria lost in thought at the Washington Monument. He isn't entirely truthful about well anything about himself aside from his interest in Aria and his fondness for rugby, his family and country.
I like Henry from the start. I could see the appeal of meeting a pretty girl who doesn't know your station and doesn't treat you as such, only as everyone else. He doesn't out right lie about himself only over generalizes his family business. I enjoyed the sweet getting to know you period and the inevitable attention and steamy times. Lakes gave Henry and Aria good chemistry and plenty of opportunities to grow to love each other. It's a whirlwind but not insta-love.
The story is strong and I could feel the frustration and helplessness from Aria in protecting her father legacy from scandal. It only takes one news cycle to ruin a life's work in DC. I was satisfied with the way the story wrapped up and stayed true to the original tale within modern constraints and no magic. Lol
If I had to pick one thing that I didn't enjoy it was the over descriptiveness of some areas of the book. I would encourage anyone who enjoys a good happily ever after to 1-click right now.
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