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Christmas At The Palace
A light, funny, royal romance perfect for fans of Jill Shalvis and Marie Force.
Campaigner, feminist, doctor, humanitarian - all words that Kumari would use to describe herself. Potential princess? Not even in the vocabulary.
But when Kumari's charity work catapults her into the limelight and brings her to the attention of Prince Benedict - playboy prince and sixth in line to the British throne - all bets are off.
Royal party boy, charming rogue, England's most eligible bachelor - Prince Benedict is all those things. Or at least he was. These days he's taking life more seriously, following in his dear mother's footsteps and focusing on charitable causes.
When he meets Kumari the attraction between them is instant. But, according to the press, Prince Benedict might just have found the most unsuitable bride.
Will love win the day?
Campaigner, feminist, doctor, humanitarian - all words that Kumari would use to describe herself. Potential princess? Not even in the vocabulary.
But when Kumari's charity work catapults her into the limelight and brings her to the attention of Prince Benedict - playboy prince and sixth in line to the British throne - all bets are off.
Royal party boy, charming rogue, England's most eligible bachelor - Prince Benedict is all those things. Or at least he was. These days he's taking life more seriously, following in his dear mother's footsteps and focusing on charitable causes.
When he meets Kumari the attraction between them is instant. But, according to the press, Prince Benedict might just have found the most unsuitable bride.
Will love win the day?
368 pages, Paperback
First published May 10, 2018
64 people are currently reading
611 people want to read
About the author
Jeevani Charika
11 books69 followersHi. It’s nice to meet you, I’m Jeevani, but you can call me Jeev. Everyone does.
I write women’s fiction and contemporary romances with a hint of British cynicism. I also write under the pen name Rhoda Baxter. So why the two names? Well… I’m British Sri-Lankan and the first book I wrote was about a bunch of middle class Sri Lankan people. I couldn’t find a home for it (even though I got some very nice rejection notes). The next book I wrote was a rom com with white main characters in it. That found a publisher within a year. I chose to use a pen name for those books, for a variety of reasons, including the fact that my real name is difficult to spell and difficult to pronounce and marks me out as non-white. My fifth book also had Sri Lankan main characters. It hasn’t found a publisher yet.
Recently, I got to write a book with Sri Lankan heroine. So it seemed only right for that book to be under my difficult to spell, difficult to pronounce name.
For the record, it’s pronounced Jeev-uh-nee.
There’s a whole lot of other stuff I could tell you – but mainly, I’m a former scientist, a fan of Lego, an embarrassing mum, a part time geek (see ’embarrassing mum’) and a very short person.
I write women’s fiction and contemporary romances with a hint of British cynicism. I also write under the pen name Rhoda Baxter. So why the two names? Well… I’m British Sri-Lankan and the first book I wrote was about a bunch of middle class Sri Lankan people. I couldn’t find a home for it (even though I got some very nice rejection notes). The next book I wrote was a rom com with white main characters in it. That found a publisher within a year. I chose to use a pen name for those books, for a variety of reasons, including the fact that my real name is difficult to spell and difficult to pronounce and marks me out as non-white. My fifth book also had Sri Lankan main characters. It hasn’t found a publisher yet.
Recently, I got to write a book with Sri Lankan heroine. So it seemed only right for that book to be under my difficult to spell, difficult to pronounce name.
For the record, it’s pronounced Jeev-uh-nee.
There’s a whole lot of other stuff I could tell you – but mainly, I’m a former scientist, a fan of Lego, an embarrassing mum, a part time geek (see ’embarrassing mum’) and a very short person.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
November 28, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Hospital Doctor Kumari Senavaka also works for ‘Better for All’ charity and was competing for a grant to help their work. She had to give a five-minute speech to be in the running in front of a crowded room including HRH Prince Benedict and was feeling very nervous and made a couple of mistakes.
A few days later she is asked to go on a blind date with someone called Ben and doesn’t put two and two together. The two have fun and agree to see one another again. But are a normal, everyday hospital Doctor and a Prince really able to maintain a romantic relationship?
I had mixed feelings about this book which I had to split up before writing this review. Ms. Jeevani seems to of taken her inspiration for the book from the recent relationship and marriage of Megan Markle and Prince Harry. Whilst reading it felt very much like reading about the couple just with different names and that Kumari is Sri Lankan. However, putting this to one side I can clearly see a great story underneath.
I’m not a massive Royal family fan. Don’t get me wrong I like having a Royal family in the UK I just don’t know their every move, just like I don’t take notice of pop stars and movie stars. So to me whilst I did have the whole Megan and Harry in my head I wouldn’t know if some of the situations were based on real events, to me, everything was fictionalised, I may be wrong, I don’t know.
The book was easy to read and just flowed. It had short chapters with newspaper or website snippets at the top. I got through it in no time and I enjoyed every minute. The characters were just lovely, although I wasn’t sure whether they were a suitable match for one another. I do think that maybe their differences were a little too much at times and their relationship felt strained.
The only thing I will say is that this is made to look and sound, via the cover and the title, that it is a Christmas book. However, hardly any of it is set at Christmas, though what was, was perfect, I just don’t want people picking this up wanting the book to centre around Christmas as it doesn’t. What you will get it a delicious story set in a magical world where a normal person and a prince can fall in love.
Hospital Doctor Kumari Senavaka also works for ‘Better for All’ charity and was competing for a grant to help their work. She had to give a five-minute speech to be in the running in front of a crowded room including HRH Prince Benedict and was feeling very nervous and made a couple of mistakes.
A few days later she is asked to go on a blind date with someone called Ben and doesn’t put two and two together. The two have fun and agree to see one another again. But are a normal, everyday hospital Doctor and a Prince really able to maintain a romantic relationship?
I had mixed feelings about this book which I had to split up before writing this review. Ms. Jeevani seems to of taken her inspiration for the book from the recent relationship and marriage of Megan Markle and Prince Harry. Whilst reading it felt very much like reading about the couple just with different names and that Kumari is Sri Lankan. However, putting this to one side I can clearly see a great story underneath.
I’m not a massive Royal family fan. Don’t get me wrong I like having a Royal family in the UK I just don’t know their every move, just like I don’t take notice of pop stars and movie stars. So to me whilst I did have the whole Megan and Harry in my head I wouldn’t know if some of the situations were based on real events, to me, everything was fictionalised, I may be wrong, I don’t know.
The book was easy to read and just flowed. It had short chapters with newspaper or website snippets at the top. I got through it in no time and I enjoyed every minute. The characters were just lovely, although I wasn’t sure whether they were a suitable match for one another. I do think that maybe their differences were a little too much at times and their relationship felt strained.
The only thing I will say is that this is made to look and sound, via the cover and the title, that it is a Christmas book. However, hardly any of it is set at Christmas, though what was, was perfect, I just don’t want people picking this up wanting the book to centre around Christmas as it doesn’t. What you will get it a delicious story set in a magical world where a normal person and a prince can fall in love.
November 13, 2018
I feel as though I should preface this review by stating that I'm fairly indifferent to the real royal family, and as such don't have huge amounts of information about them.
That being said I couldn't help but feel that large elements of this book were clearly based on real life, and incredibly well researched. I felt that the initial news articles about Prince Benedict dating Kumari were potentially realistic and I did wonder to some extent how much this was based on the real relationship between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
I never intended to read any of the books initially released to tie in with this years Royal Wedding, for various reasons but when this book randomly arrived in the post I was drawn to it, plus I like the author when she writes as Rhoda Baxter, so I knew I would give in to temptation at some point,. And I am so glad that I have.
Kumari really is one of the best leading ladies I've read about recently, she is a strong independent woman who is completely unsure why the Prince is even interested in her. She is s doctor and works closely with a charity and is close to her family. They are worlds apart but yet as the saying goes, you can't help who you fall in love with.
I loved seeing how Kumari's attitudes towards everything, and seeing how she deals with everything with poise is rather inspiring.
Whenever I wasn't reading I was wondering what Kumari was up to now, she really got under my skin and into my heart. She is a fabulous heroine and a role model.
I also loved getting up close and personal with a Prince - and learning all about the different traditions within the Royal Institutions. Benedict is handsome prince indeed, but also he seemed in some ways really down to earth too, as did one of his sisters.
Originally released as A Royal Wedding, it has been re-named and expanded for Christmas, however I wouldn't really call it a Christmas book. The bulk of the story has nothing to do with Christmas, however the expanded Christmas section was incredibly well done, and I thoroughly enjoyed not only that but the whole book.
I adored this book, it is feisty, romantic, and clearly a lot of love and research has gone into the story from the author It is a modern day fairy story that is contemporary and it has certainly made me look at the real life royals in a new light.
Thanks to Zaffre for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
That being said I couldn't help but feel that large elements of this book were clearly based on real life, and incredibly well researched. I felt that the initial news articles about Prince Benedict dating Kumari were potentially realistic and I did wonder to some extent how much this was based on the real relationship between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
I never intended to read any of the books initially released to tie in with this years Royal Wedding, for various reasons but when this book randomly arrived in the post I was drawn to it, plus I like the author when she writes as Rhoda Baxter, so I knew I would give in to temptation at some point,. And I am so glad that I have.
Kumari really is one of the best leading ladies I've read about recently, she is a strong independent woman who is completely unsure why the Prince is even interested in her. She is s doctor and works closely with a charity and is close to her family. They are worlds apart but yet as the saying goes, you can't help who you fall in love with.
I loved seeing how Kumari's attitudes towards everything, and seeing how she deals with everything with poise is rather inspiring.
Whenever I wasn't reading I was wondering what Kumari was up to now, she really got under my skin and into my heart. She is a fabulous heroine and a role model.
I also loved getting up close and personal with a Prince - and learning all about the different traditions within the Royal Institutions. Benedict is handsome prince indeed, but also he seemed in some ways really down to earth too, as did one of his sisters.
Originally released as A Royal Wedding, it has been re-named and expanded for Christmas, however I wouldn't really call it a Christmas book. The bulk of the story has nothing to do with Christmas, however the expanded Christmas section was incredibly well done, and I thoroughly enjoyed not only that but the whole book.
I adored this book, it is feisty, romantic, and clearly a lot of love and research has gone into the story from the author It is a modern day fairy story that is contemporary and it has certainly made me look at the real life royals in a new light.
Thanks to Zaffre for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 28, 2018
5 Words: Family, love, friendship, change, pressure.
Review first posted at Tea Party Princess.
I absolutely loved this book, and I wouldn't be lying if I were to say that it hit all of my catnip tropes. Surprise royals? Uneven power dynamics? Fiercely feminist lead? SOFT PRECIOUS CHARACTERS? Basically this book was perfect for me, the perfect escape, and I already want to read it again.
I loved Kumari. She's such an angel, and so full of kindness and generosity. I love how strong her convictions are, how GOOD she is, how she treats those around her. She's brave and fierce and a little bit fragile, and all the better for it. She's smart and savvy and sometimes scared, and I love how her story shows that it's is OK.
The romance itself is sweet, and if it's a bit of a whirlwind to start, it still works perfectly. I loved the exploration of the pressure of the press and paparazzi, the judging from all sides, the way images can be twisted into narratives far removed from the truth.
I wouldn't say that this book is necessarily super Christmas-y, but it was a lovely read and it did give me all of the heart-warming festive vibes I'm after. And I think you can probably read this at any time of year when you're looking to be cheered up. It's a story to make you smile.
So yeah, go get this book and read it, and turn the last page with a heart full of love and joy.
Review first posted at Tea Party Princess.
I absolutely loved this book, and I wouldn't be lying if I were to say that it hit all of my catnip tropes. Surprise royals? Uneven power dynamics? Fiercely feminist lead? SOFT PRECIOUS CHARACTERS? Basically this book was perfect for me, the perfect escape, and I already want to read it again.
I loved Kumari. She's such an angel, and so full of kindness and generosity. I love how strong her convictions are, how GOOD she is, how she treats those around her. She's brave and fierce and a little bit fragile, and all the better for it. She's smart and savvy and sometimes scared, and I love how her story shows that it's is OK.
The romance itself is sweet, and if it's a bit of a whirlwind to start, it still works perfectly. I loved the exploration of the pressure of the press and paparazzi, the judging from all sides, the way images can be twisted into narratives far removed from the truth.
I wouldn't say that this book is necessarily super Christmas-y, but it was a lovely read and it did give me all of the heart-warming festive vibes I'm after. And I think you can probably read this at any time of year when you're looking to be cheered up. It's a story to make you smile.
So yeah, go get this book and read it, and turn the last page with a heart full of love and joy.
January 30, 2022
0.5 star
Hello? Yes, personal assitant, please fetch me your smallest violin. I have to play the saddest song in mourning of Kumari’s freedom.
Christmas at the Palace follows the whirlwind romance between feminist, humanitarian, and doctor Kumari Senavaka, and England’s most eligible bachelor... Prince Benedict (of England). But, oh no, the British media absolutely despises her! (Daily Mail, is that you?).
If you’ve read the description and you’re thinking huh, this sounds like Meghan Markle and Prince Harry! that’s because you are right, it most definitely is, and, no, you should not read it to find out if it’s any good. That was my first mistake. This book. This goddamn book. This is the 1 star read that absolutely ruined my Christmas (and my mood for romance novels. so thanks, Kumari, I have to start reading epic fantasy again).
When I say this is a Harry and Meghan retelling, I mean it’s a Harry and Meghan retelling. Their first date was the same, the media outrage was the same, the wedding was the same, EVERYTHING WAS THE SAME. Benedict had older siblings, Benedict lost his mother at a young age, Benedict had a reputation for partying. Kumari was divorced, Kumari was outspoken and challenged old traditions, Kumari was an outsider.
“ ‘I’m not really a salad person,’ Kumari said, without thinking.
He looked up. His eyes sparkled. ‘Oh yes? What sort of person are you, then?
She met his eyes. ‘I’ll have the lamb.’ She closed her menu and lifted her chin, challenging him to judge her. „
Feminist, you say? This woman, who thinks she’s really cool for not eating salad?? Whose man compliments her by telling her she’s not like any other woman he’s ever met??? Ok. Kumari’s not like other girls. She’s just really judgemental, rude to everyone she meets, and incredibly entitled. And I guess that’s somehow better (?) because she thinks she’s a complete girlboss because of it (she’s not).
The two of them had no chemistry, I didn’t get their immense love for one another and they were so boring I could not care less about them or any of the things that upset them. And there were plenty of things that upset them.
“ Kumari stared at it. When had she acquired hankies instead of tissues? Ophelia had given her some as a gift. She opened it out, it had a K embroidered in the corner. Oh God, they were infiltrating her without her even realising. The ball of panic in her chest rose higher.
She turned to Lucy. ‘I don’t even know who I am anymore.’ „
Kumari, there’s people that are dying. I am begging you to stop complaining about how difficult your life is now that you’re married to a prince and your Kleenex tissues are being replaced with specially embroidered handkerchiefs.
Hello? Yes, personal assitant, please fetch me your smallest violin. I have to play the saddest song in mourning of Kumari’s freedom.
Christmas at the Palace follows the whirlwind romance between feminist, humanitarian, and doctor Kumari Senavaka, and England’s most eligible bachelor... Prince Benedict (of England). But, oh no, the British media absolutely despises her! (Daily Mail, is that you?).
If you’ve read the description and you’re thinking huh, this sounds like Meghan Markle and Prince Harry! that’s because you are right, it most definitely is, and, no, you should not read it to find out if it’s any good. That was my first mistake. This book. This goddamn book. This is the 1 star read that absolutely ruined my Christmas (and my mood for romance novels. so thanks, Kumari, I have to start reading epic fantasy again).
When I say this is a Harry and Meghan retelling, I mean it’s a Harry and Meghan retelling. Their first date was the same, the media outrage was the same, the wedding was the same, EVERYTHING WAS THE SAME. Benedict had older siblings, Benedict lost his mother at a young age, Benedict had a reputation for partying. Kumari was divorced, Kumari was outspoken and challenged old traditions, Kumari was an outsider.
“ ‘I’m not really a salad person,’ Kumari said, without thinking.
He looked up. His eyes sparkled. ‘Oh yes? What sort of person are you, then?
She met his eyes. ‘I’ll have the lamb.’ She closed her menu and lifted her chin, challenging him to judge her. „
Feminist, you say? This woman, who thinks she’s really cool for not eating salad?? Whose man compliments her by telling her she’s not like any other woman he’s ever met??? Ok. Kumari’s not like other girls. She’s just really judgemental, rude to everyone she meets, and incredibly entitled. And I guess that’s somehow better (?) because she thinks she’s a complete girlboss because of it (she’s not).
The two of them had no chemistry, I didn’t get their immense love for one another and they were so boring I could not care less about them or any of the things that upset them. And there were plenty of things that upset them.
“ Kumari stared at it. When had she acquired hankies instead of tissues? Ophelia had given her some as a gift. She opened it out, it had a K embroidered in the corner. Oh God, they were infiltrating her without her even realising. The ball of panic in her chest rose higher.
She turned to Lucy. ‘I don’t even know who I am anymore.’ „
Kumari, there’s people that are dying. I am begging you to stop complaining about how difficult your life is now that you’re married to a prince and your Kleenex tissues are being replaced with specially embroidered handkerchiefs.
December 28, 2018
I started out liking it bc I enjoy royals stories and I really liked Kumari. But then my enjoyment started to nosedive.
First, barely any of this story focused on ben and Kumari's actual relationship. I felt zero chemistry between them. Ben seemed like this flat one dimensional prince archetype. Half the time he just annoyed me. Secondly, Kumari is pulling the "I'm not other women" thing which always annoys me. Along with the fact that one of the things she uses to show this is that she doesn't eat salads. This is a pet peeve of mine. You don't have to not eat salads to show that you like to eat food. Guess what, I love food and i also like salads.
Then Kumari who loves her job gives it up right away (yes she had second thoughts but still) for Ben. Med school is damn hard and I didn't see how Ben was worth it to give it up. She SAYS she loves him and can't give him up but I didn't SEE the love. Like I said, no chemistry.
Everything else was pretty boring. Also the Christmas bit doesn't come in until about 75% so I feel like the title is super misleading.
First, barely any of this story focused on ben and Kumari's actual relationship. I felt zero chemistry between them. Ben seemed like this flat one dimensional prince archetype. Half the time he just annoyed me. Secondly, Kumari is pulling the "I'm not other women" thing which always annoys me. Along with the fact that one of the things she uses to show this is that she doesn't eat salads. This is a pet peeve of mine. You don't have to not eat salads to show that you like to eat food. Guess what, I love food and i also like salads.
Then Kumari who loves her job gives it up right away (yes she had second thoughts but still) for Ben. Med school is damn hard and I didn't see how Ben was worth it to give it up. She SAYS she loves him and can't give him up but I didn't SEE the love. Like I said, no chemistry.
Everything else was pretty boring. Also the Christmas bit doesn't come in until about 75% so I feel like the title is super misleading.
November 22, 2018
I love a festive book. Sadly, there isn't much holiday cheer in this book. That doesn't mean I didn't like it. Far from it! I enjoyed it a lot. It just isn't very Christmassy.
Kumari is a wonderful protagonist. She's humble, warm, intelligent and unassuming. Ben is charming, kind and handsome. Why wouldn't they be a match made in heaven? Well, because he's a Prince and she's a Yorkshire lass. Not ideal, but hey, when has the course of true love ever been smooth?
In a year of Royal Weddings in the real world, this fictional one is delightful and perfectly timed. It is almost the true story of a certain Prince and his lovely new bride but better!
Kumari is a wonderful protagonist. She's humble, warm, intelligent and unassuming. Ben is charming, kind and handsome. Why wouldn't they be a match made in heaven? Well, because he's a Prince and she's a Yorkshire lass. Not ideal, but hey, when has the course of true love ever been smooth?
In a year of Royal Weddings in the real world, this fictional one is delightful and perfectly timed. It is almost the true story of a certain Prince and his lovely new bride but better!
December 16, 2019
I'm not usually a romance reader, but I really enjoyed Ben & Kumari's story. I stumbled upon this book while searching for holiday reads with POC authors and this one did not disappoint. I don't follow the royals that closely, but I wonder how much of the book was inspired by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. My only complaint is that the book isn't really Christmassy, which is what I was looking for. The final chapters are about Kumari's first Christmas as part of the royal family, but most of the plot takes place during the preceding year.
November 13, 2018
Kumari, an A&E doctor of Sri Lankan heritage and Prince Benedict meet at a charity event and quickly fall for each other. To begin with, their romance is able to develop in secret with intimate dinners in fancy restaurants and time together at Ben's Kensington apartment. But when the press find out the identity of Ben's secret girlfriend, huge changes have to happen in Kamari's life and as panic sets in, she has to decide if she can become the Princess Ben wants her to be.
With lots of similarities between the real life romance of Meghan and Harry, this is a lovely romantic story that delves into many of the Royal Families traditions and shows what has to happen if a commoner marries into the establishment. Kumari soon learns to handle the press, dress in the right way and present herself well in public but also has to make many sacrifices. It feels well researched and for someone who knew little about the etiquette and traditions in the Royal Family, this was eye opening. At the beginning of each chapter, is a news item, some of which are kind to Kumari, but many are not which reminds you how it must feel to have your every move scrutinised. Culminating with Christmas at Sandringham with the Queen and the rest of the Royal family, this is a light-hearted and magical read that leaves the reader feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
However, despite the very beautiful cover, if you are looking for a Christmas read, you may be left feeling a little disappointed as the Christmassy stuff only happens quite near the end.
This book was sent to me as part of a blog tour for Bonnier Zaffre.
With lots of similarities between the real life romance of Meghan and Harry, this is a lovely romantic story that delves into many of the Royal Families traditions and shows what has to happen if a commoner marries into the establishment. Kumari soon learns to handle the press, dress in the right way and present herself well in public but also has to make many sacrifices. It feels well researched and for someone who knew little about the etiquette and traditions in the Royal Family, this was eye opening. At the beginning of each chapter, is a news item, some of which are kind to Kumari, but many are not which reminds you how it must feel to have your every move scrutinised. Culminating with Christmas at Sandringham with the Queen and the rest of the Royal family, this is a light-hearted and magical read that leaves the reader feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
However, despite the very beautiful cover, if you are looking for a Christmas read, you may be left feeling a little disappointed as the Christmassy stuff only happens quite near the end.
This book was sent to me as part of a blog tour for Bonnier Zaffre.
May 19, 2018
Yes, this is a (very) thinly-veiled retelling of Harry and Meghan's romance, in this case starring Prince Benedict (who I could only picture as Benedict Cumberbatch ... no complaints) and Kumari, a Sri Lankan-British medical doctor. It's fun and I liked the characters (esp. Lucy and the unfortunately-named Princess Ophelia (called "Ophie" *wince*)). If I'm honest, the writing is just okay (and you can definitely tell in parts that this was rushed to publication to make it out before the RL royal wedding), but I had a really stressful week and this was exactly the fluffy, easy read I needed to soothe my frazzled nerves.
December 7, 2023
This was a fun interracial holiday romance that picks up from when the couple met in a previous book and sees them struggle to reconcile their love with his royal duties and all the media attention/pressure it entails. Good on audio and perfect for fans of Prince Harry & Megan or Tracey Livesay's American Royalty/The duchess effect books.
December 15, 2019
Kumari, a Sri Lankan-British doctor and humanitarian, literally falls into Prince Benedict’s arms at a charity event, and needless to say, the meet cute magic happens. Although their chemistry is immediate, there are a lot of challenges in the way of Kumari and Ben being together—the publicity, especially the ugly racist tone of some of the coverage, and the strict rules that govern nearly all aspects of royals’ lives. Perhaps realistically, the bulk of the story focuses on these issues and how Kumari and Ben navigate them. I’ll admit I wished there had been more of the glamour of marrying a prince than the struggle of it, but credit Charika for making such a realistic story out of a far-fetched premise. I’ll also note that the audio is fantastic, the narrator does ALL the accents.
December 9, 2023
Insta-love with no real development, flat characters and unoriginal story line as it seemed to be loosely based on the Megan/Harry relationship. It was a disappointing Christmas read.
May 31, 2018
💘👍👍Truly romantic and lovely story with a timely theme💐
💕Lovely, sweet and clean story with lots of romantic moments, but that also emphasized the vicissitudes of adjusting to a public life as the partner of a popular royal.
A lot of the couple's story parallels the latest real life couple 💒married in Windsor, but with some major differences. Kumari, the heroine, is a medical doctor who is torn by the prospect of losing her profession and mission to help make her patients' lives better to her promised life as a royal. Kumari is also the British-born daughter of Sri Lankan immigrants and she and her family face racist threats and anti-immigrants backlash once the courtship becomes public knowledge. I thought the author created a nice balance of romance and drama, with some lovely moments with family, close friends and loyal Yorkshire neighbors included.
I have enjoyed several romances written by the author under her Rhoda Baxter pen name and this one easily measures up to those.
A delightful, light read perfect for the romantic looking for a fairytale ending.:-)
💕Lovely, sweet and clean story with lots of romantic moments, but that also emphasized the vicissitudes of adjusting to a public life as the partner of a popular royal.
A lot of the couple's story parallels the latest real life couple 💒married in Windsor, but with some major differences. Kumari, the heroine, is a medical doctor who is torn by the prospect of losing her profession and mission to help make her patients' lives better to her promised life as a royal. Kumari is also the British-born daughter of Sri Lankan immigrants and she and her family face racist threats and anti-immigrants backlash once the courtship becomes public knowledge. I thought the author created a nice balance of romance and drama, with some lovely moments with family, close friends and loyal Yorkshire neighbors included.
I have enjoyed several romances written by the author under her Rhoda Baxter pen name and this one easily measures up to those.
A delightful, light read perfect for the romantic looking for a fairytale ending.:-)
October 18, 2018
A beautiful, feel good, romantic book, filled with all the Christmas magic and sparkle that you could want in a festive read. I really, really love this book and highly recommend it to all.
Not even in her wildest imaginings did Kumari ever think she'd become a princess. But having fallen for Ben - or rather Prince Benedict, sixth in line to the throne - it looks like nothing will ever go as planned again. And as Christmas rapidly approaches the distinction between family festivities and Royaltybecomes ever more apparent.
With the paparazzi hounding her, her job on the line and some rather frustrating royal training, Kumari feels panic set in.
Does loving Prince Charming mean she'll get her fairy tale ending - and on her own terms?
Not even in her wildest imaginings did Kumari ever think she'd become a princess. But having fallen for Ben - or rather Prince Benedict, sixth in line to the throne - it looks like nothing will ever go as planned again. And as Christmas rapidly approaches the distinction between family festivities and Royaltybecomes ever more apparent.
With the paparazzi hounding her, her job on the line and some rather frustrating royal training, Kumari feels panic set in.
Does loving Prince Charming mean she'll get her fairy tale ending - and on her own terms?
December 20, 2018
I enjoyed this book so so so much! First time I read about the main character falling in love with a real prince! I really enjoyed to learn more about the traditions and rules of the British royal family (even if this one in this book is a fictional one). We realize that it's not as pink and nice all the time to date a prince. Princess life is not as easy as it seems and you need to give up a lot of things if you want to share your life with a prince. I really recommend this book to all women. You can read it all year round, this book takes place during Christmas time only at the end! Go for it!
January 30, 2019
I would like to thank netgalley and Bonnier Zaffre for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honet review.
A unique modern royal romance. I loved it!
A unique modern royal romance. I loved it!
December 3, 2021
this was terrible. it was a two star to start, then wavered two-one, until firmly landing in a one star. the only reason it did not end on the dnf shelf is so i could jot down my thoughts and because a romcom read is generally always worth a few hours.
First, the title is extremely misleading. It is not until SEVENTY-TWO % into the book where you reach Christmas. Then there was the problem of frequent repetition and zero trust in the reader to recall anything.
"summer and woodland smell"
"rolled her eyes"
"gilded cage"
There you go. you read the book.
Then, Kumari was generally a judgemental prat. I really wanted to like her. But she was a terrible friend (despite the writer trying to tell you she was a good friend and valued her friendships), always assumed the worst of everyone she met, and was very Claire from Outlander the TV show about the Royal Family and royal life.
In summary, don't read this. Read Red,White, and Royal Blue or watch the Christmas Prince.
First, the title is extremely misleading. It is not until SEVENTY-TWO % into the book where you reach Christmas. Then there was the problem of frequent repetition and zero trust in the reader to recall anything.
"summer and woodland smell"
"rolled her eyes"
"gilded cage"
There you go. you read the book.
Then, Kumari was generally a judgemental prat. I really wanted to like her. But she was a terrible friend (despite the writer trying to tell you she was a good friend and valued her friendships), always assumed the worst of everyone she met, and was very Claire from Outlander the TV show about the Royal Family and royal life.
In summary, don't read this. Read Red,White, and Royal Blue or watch the Christmas Prince.
November 28, 2024
I’m a real sucker for this trope. The royalty x non royal, Prince x commoner and it was an enjoyable audiobook.
It’s a heartwarming romance and our MC was easy to like. She’s a bad ass, independent doctor who knows her goals and strives towards going to meet them. She meets the Prince trying to secure funding for one of her projects and they hit it off from there.
The audiobook was narrated well and went a long way to making time go faster in the gym! I wasn’t getting much Christmas vibes or festivity, certainly in the first entire three quarters of the book, and like any book with ‘Christmas’ in the title, I hope for it to be jingle bells and ho ho ho from the get go but that’s just personal preference. There was a bit of Christmas at the end which was nice. But it was a great story all in all.
It’s a heartwarming romance and our MC was easy to like. She’s a bad ass, independent doctor who knows her goals and strives towards going to meet them. She meets the Prince trying to secure funding for one of her projects and they hit it off from there.
The audiobook was narrated well and went a long way to making time go faster in the gym! I wasn’t getting much Christmas vibes or festivity, certainly in the first entire three quarters of the book, and like any book with ‘Christmas’ in the title, I hope for it to be jingle bells and ho ho ho from the get go but that’s just personal preference. There was a bit of Christmas at the end which was nice. But it was a great story all in all.
December 19, 2023
This book was not a great read. It didnt get Christmassy until about 300 pages in and then barely so until Christmas day. The romance felt fake and there was about 0 chemistry. That being said, I didnt enjoy most of the book. The plotline was good, but heavily focused on the royal family. It felt almost identical to the real royal family. So if you don't care about that at all, don't read this book. All in all, it was alright.
December 2, 2018
Didn’t enjoy this at all. A reworked version of Harry and Meghan’s romance but missing all the magic.
December 8, 2019
This was a sweet royal Christmas tale, to put you in the holiday spirit.
December 19, 2021
This isn’t remotely a Christmas romance, though the last 20% of the book does take place at Christmas. So if you’re looking for a warm and lovely Christmas romance, don’t be duped by the title like I was. 🙄
That aside, the book is decent enough, if a bit insta-lovey. It’s much more about how Kumari handles being a member of the royal family than it is about the romance and relationship. And the ending is really oddly abrupt.
That aside, the book is decent enough, if a bit insta-lovey. It’s much more about how Kumari handles being a member of the royal family than it is about the romance and relationship. And the ending is really oddly abrupt.
December 20, 2022
3.5 ⭐️- Very pleasant, love the diversity, low angst (hence rounding up)
June 8, 2018
There's a brown woman on a royal romance cover!!! This was advertised on one of the many book emails I get and I was going to pass until I saw the heroine wasn't white. Bought! Devoured it and enjoyed it a lot!
Okay, yes, it's thinly veiled Meghan Markle fanfiction but it was still fun. Kumari is first generation Sri Lankan-British, a doctor, and a humanitarian. She's awesome.
I would have liked a bit more depth, and the plot was more rushed than I'd have liked, but it was still a fun, quick read.
I want more Lucy.
Okay, yes, it's thinly veiled Meghan Markle fanfiction but it was still fun. Kumari is first generation Sri Lankan-British, a doctor, and a humanitarian. She's awesome.
I would have liked a bit more depth, and the plot was more rushed than I'd have liked, but it was still a fun, quick read.
I want more Lucy.
January 3, 2019
**I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review/as a result of my job**
Firstly, a huge thank-you to Bonnier Zaffre for asking me to be a part of this blog tour and sending me out a copy of Christmas at the Palace*.
I hold my hand up, I have never read a Christmas book before. Well, at least not since picture books. I was really looking forward to giving one a go and getting fully into the Christmas spirit. And it couldn't have been at a better time. I was having a very Uni heavy time so reading something light and fun on the side was a god send.
Safe to say I adored this book. It's so sweet and cute whilst still managing to promote a brilliant message.
**Taken from the back of the book**
Not even in her wildest imaginings did Kumari ever think she'd become a princess. But having fallen for Ben - or rather Prince Benedict, sixth in line to the throne - it looks like nothing will ever go as planned again. And as Christmas rapidly approaches the distinction between family and Royalty becomes ever more apparent.
With the paparazzi holding her, her job on the line and some rather frustrating royal training, Kumari feels panic set in.
Kumari is a wonderful, if sometimes frustrating character. All I wanted her to do was be happy but it was as though she couldn't allow that for herself, which honestly I can understand. She was more concerned with those around her and dissapeointng people. I really appreciated how driven she was, with whatever she set her mind to. It was interesting to see her transition from working as a Doctor in A&E to the life of a royal. She was an excellent character to challenge certain stereotypes present both in the novel, and that are still relevant to us, now. The amount of people that assumed Dr. Senavaka was a man was laughable...but it happens! There were so many instances like this, and Kumari did not let it stand. I found myself wanting to cheer for her every time she made someone go bright red. It was rather brilliant.
Her relationship with Ben or rather Prince Benedict was a whirlwind. It was definitely insta love-y but I adored it. It was so pure and sweet, they just wanted to be happy but they had so many hoops to jump through. Ben was also a great character and I liked that he challenged Kumari just as much as she did him in regards to both beliefs but also in general. I can't think of any way to describe him that isn't just a list of unintelligible sounds.
There was a brilliant mix of relationships, both familial and friendships from every kind of angle. Kumari's parents reminded me so much of my own. How kind and caring they are, that they just want their little girl to be happy. I got a little emotional reading certain scenes with them in. However, my favourite side characters most definitely Ophelia. Oh my god I want her as a friend.
This book was a surprise to me. I knew I was going to like it, I just didn't know I was going to love it. I've already passed it to my mum to read because I know she'll love it.
The perfect book to curl up with when it's dreary outside, so do yourself a favour, pick it up.
www.a-novel-idea.co.uk
Firstly, a huge thank-you to Bonnier Zaffre for asking me to be a part of this blog tour and sending me out a copy of Christmas at the Palace*.
I hold my hand up, I have never read a Christmas book before. Well, at least not since picture books. I was really looking forward to giving one a go and getting fully into the Christmas spirit. And it couldn't have been at a better time. I was having a very Uni heavy time so reading something light and fun on the side was a god send.
Safe to say I adored this book. It's so sweet and cute whilst still managing to promote a brilliant message.
**Taken from the back of the book**
Not even in her wildest imaginings did Kumari ever think she'd become a princess. But having fallen for Ben - or rather Prince Benedict, sixth in line to the throne - it looks like nothing will ever go as planned again. And as Christmas rapidly approaches the distinction between family and Royalty becomes ever more apparent.
With the paparazzi holding her, her job on the line and some rather frustrating royal training, Kumari feels panic set in.
Kumari is a wonderful, if sometimes frustrating character. All I wanted her to do was be happy but it was as though she couldn't allow that for herself, which honestly I can understand. She was more concerned with those around her and dissapeointng people. I really appreciated how driven she was, with whatever she set her mind to. It was interesting to see her transition from working as a Doctor in A&E to the life of a royal. She was an excellent character to challenge certain stereotypes present both in the novel, and that are still relevant to us, now. The amount of people that assumed Dr. Senavaka was a man was laughable...but it happens! There were so many instances like this, and Kumari did not let it stand. I found myself wanting to cheer for her every time she made someone go bright red. It was rather brilliant.
Her relationship with Ben or rather Prince Benedict was a whirlwind. It was definitely insta love-y but I adored it. It was so pure and sweet, they just wanted to be happy but they had so many hoops to jump through. Ben was also a great character and I liked that he challenged Kumari just as much as she did him in regards to both beliefs but also in general. I can't think of any way to describe him that isn't just a list of unintelligible sounds.
There was a brilliant mix of relationships, both familial and friendships from every kind of angle. Kumari's parents reminded me so much of my own. How kind and caring they are, that they just want their little girl to be happy. I got a little emotional reading certain scenes with them in. However, my favourite side characters most definitely Ophelia. Oh my god I want her as a friend.
This book was a surprise to me. I knew I was going to like it, I just didn't know I was going to love it. I've already passed it to my mum to read because I know she'll love it.
The perfect book to curl up with when it's dreary outside, so do yourself a favour, pick it up.
www.a-novel-idea.co.uk
December 30, 2024
This is not really a Christmas book but a straight rip off of Prince Harry and Meghan’s love story with some Christmas at the end. Full disclosure, I dont care much for the real royal duo but know the basics of their courtship and enough about the royal family to see how unoriginal and uninspired this story is.
To look at the novel itself, one of the key things lacking from “Christmas at the Place” (other than Christmas) was chemistry. The main characters had very little time to be introduced to the readers before they got together, not only making them one dimensional - the Prince even more so who really had zero personality outside of courting and loving Kumari, but with no build up, hard to cheer for. Kumari was a feminist doctor working on a charity project when the Prince fell in love with her at first sight (this was about 5 pages in). The author expected us to instantly fall for her too but nothing felt unique or special about her and I didn’t see her appeal that easily. I struggled to connect with her the rest of the way through and got quite annoyed with her by the end.
As for the real Sussex couple, I believe they had great intentions initially to make a difference in the world which was the main focus of this novel. But, when the going got tough, they peaced out. This story tried to shed light on what that “tough” was like, so if you are in the mindset to try and emphasize with the infamous duo, maybe you’ll enjoy it.
Also, dont expect a Christmas story. The holiday doesn’t make it into the story until the last quarter of the novel. And when the Christmas season started the author weirdly started recapping the story like we were starting a sequel and hadn’t just read it all in the last couple hundred pages. I researched this because it was so off putting and it looks like this was republished from “A Royal Wedding”, so that explains that.
Lastly, I never grabbed my iPhone with a desire to listen to this and instead forced myself to do so. It wasn’t so bad as a DNF but after coming off some hard to put down reads, I found this to be an overall bore. I might feel bad rating a book so low but seeing as the real royal couple should be credited for most of this story’s plot, I dont feel the author should get much credit for her contributions.
To look at the novel itself, one of the key things lacking from “Christmas at the Place” (other than Christmas) was chemistry. The main characters had very little time to be introduced to the readers before they got together, not only making them one dimensional - the Prince even more so who really had zero personality outside of courting and loving Kumari, but with no build up, hard to cheer for. Kumari was a feminist doctor working on a charity project when the Prince fell in love with her at first sight (this was about 5 pages in). The author expected us to instantly fall for her too but nothing felt unique or special about her and I didn’t see her appeal that easily. I struggled to connect with her the rest of the way through and got quite annoyed with her by the end.
As for the real Sussex couple, I believe they had great intentions initially to make a difference in the world which was the main focus of this novel. But, when the going got tough, they peaced out. This story tried to shed light on what that “tough” was like, so if you are in the mindset to try and emphasize with the infamous duo, maybe you’ll enjoy it.
Also, dont expect a Christmas story. The holiday doesn’t make it into the story until the last quarter of the novel. And when the Christmas season started the author weirdly started recapping the story like we were starting a sequel and hadn’t just read it all in the last couple hundred pages. I researched this because it was so off putting and it looks like this was republished from “A Royal Wedding”, so that explains that.
Lastly, I never grabbed my iPhone with a desire to listen to this and instead forced myself to do so. It wasn’t so bad as a DNF but after coming off some hard to put down reads, I found this to be an overall bore. I might feel bad rating a book so low but seeing as the real royal couple should be credited for most of this story’s plot, I dont feel the author should get much credit for her contributions.
December 26, 2018
[Review based on the first version, "A Royal Wedding", read in May 2018.
Re-read of December 2018 : expended version, "Christmas at the Palace".]
This could, I suppose, be considered a kind of modern fairy tale. Of course, there's no magic, but there's a charming prince. And then there's Kumari, who doesn't need to be saved from an evil stepmother or anything, but whose life is seriously disrupted when pictures of her with Prince Benedict start to appear in tabloids.
I really liked the way the story was told, following Kumari's struggle to adjust to what seemed like a completely different world to her, showing the life of the royals with both its restricting rules and its positive points, and also how Kumari's sudden celebrity affected her family (including some shocking examples of mean stupidity - I mean things like racist hate mail - that sadly seem like what would realistically happen). Oh, and I liked how every chapter started with a newspaper article, too - very efficient way to show how truth can be twisted to give a completely wrong impression.
Re-read of December 2018 : expended version, "Christmas at the Palace".]
This could, I suppose, be considered a kind of modern fairy tale. Of course, there's no magic, but there's a charming prince. And then there's Kumari, who doesn't need to be saved from an evil stepmother or anything, but whose life is seriously disrupted when pictures of her with Prince Benedict start to appear in tabloids.
I really liked the way the story was told, following Kumari's struggle to adjust to what seemed like a completely different world to her, showing the life of the royals with both its restricting rules and its positive points, and also how Kumari's sudden celebrity affected her family (including some shocking examples of mean stupidity - I mean things like racist hate mail - that sadly seem like what would realistically happen). Oh, and I liked how every chapter started with a newspaper article, too - very efficient way to show how truth can be twisted to give a completely wrong impression.
November 2, 2018
Christmas At The Palace is my kind of a read. The story is sparkly, characters are delightful and the plot line is so romantic.
I could not help rooting for Kumari and her prince. Their up and down relationship is described in a pretty realistic way. It show that it is not so easy to become one of the members of the “firm”. There are certain rules, principle and lots of press.
Kumari is a pretty rounded, lovable, resourceful and witty characters that is thrown into the spotlight by dating the most eligible man in the country. There are lots of hoops to jump through, plenty of new things to learn and people to please luckily for Kumari she has a circle of friends and loving family to support her and offer a word of encouragement.
Christmas At The Palace will melt everyone’s reading heart. A hug in a book.
I could not help rooting for Kumari and her prince. Their up and down relationship is described in a pretty realistic way. It show that it is not so easy to become one of the members of the “firm”. There are certain rules, principle and lots of press.
Kumari is a pretty rounded, lovable, resourceful and witty characters that is thrown into the spotlight by dating the most eligible man in the country. There are lots of hoops to jump through, plenty of new things to learn and people to please luckily for Kumari she has a circle of friends and loving family to support her and offer a word of encouragement.
Christmas At The Palace will melt everyone’s reading heart. A hug in a book.
September 9, 2018
Great read
I loved this book, loved the characters and the attention to detail around the monarchy. The heroine, Kumari, is believeable and you really root for her throughout the story , so much so that, even though Prince Benedict is definitely one to fall for, her doubts about giving up everything to be with him ring true. Prince Benedict is my kind of hero - not because he was a Prince, but more because of the man Jeevani portrayed him to be behind closed doors. I loved the 'behind the scenes' glimpses we got of everyday life for the royals. All in all, a lovely, feel good story for anyone who loves the royal family, and for anyone who just loves a well written romance.
I loved this book, loved the characters and the attention to detail around the monarchy. The heroine, Kumari, is believeable and you really root for her throughout the story , so much so that, even though Prince Benedict is definitely one to fall for, her doubts about giving up everything to be with him ring true. Prince Benedict is my kind of hero - not because he was a Prince, but more because of the man Jeevani portrayed him to be behind closed doors. I loved the 'behind the scenes' glimpses we got of everyday life for the royals. All in all, a lovely, feel good story for anyone who loves the royal family, and for anyone who just loves a well written romance.
November 24, 2018
3.75 stars
Originally posted at https://www.instagram.com/p/Bqfy6mEnyJJ/
Generally, I am not a huge fan of contemporary books, but as soon as the temperatures begin to drop I suddenly can't get enough of cute & Christmas-ey romantic reads.
I absolutely adored Christmas at the palace. It had just the right combination of feisty female lead & dashing prince, & I couldn't help but get caught up in their whirlwind romance!
Overall this book will be perfect to read at any time of year but I think it will be enjoyed so much more if read in the wintertime.
Thank you so much to @bonnierzaffre for having me on the tour & for providing me with this free book!
Originally posted at https://www.instagram.com/p/Bqfy6mEnyJJ/
Generally, I am not a huge fan of contemporary books, but as soon as the temperatures begin to drop I suddenly can't get enough of cute & Christmas-ey romantic reads.
I absolutely adored Christmas at the palace. It had just the right combination of feisty female lead & dashing prince, & I couldn't help but get caught up in their whirlwind romance!
Overall this book will be perfect to read at any time of year but I think it will be enjoyed so much more if read in the wintertime.
Thank you so much to @bonnierzaffre for having me on the tour & for providing me with this free book!
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