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Crowns & Courtships #6
The Spare and the Heir
Crown Princess Esmerelda of Islas del Sargasso wants nothing to do with Prince Gabriel of Auverignon and his well-deserved reputation as a playboy prince.
Unfortunately, she's been secretly engaged to him since she was three.
Her mother, Queen Carlotta, has decided it's time for the two of them to get married - and Gabriel is all too keen to make it happen. But she saw what this kind of arrangement did to her own mother, and Esme wants nothing to do with it.
For his part, Gabriel has been in love with Esme since he was a teenager and deeply regrets his years of wild oat sowing - even if some of them did serve a greater purpose.
One he can't tell Esme about, not yet.
He knows, far better than she does, that their fledgling relationship is going to be tested to the hilt as life's body blows rain down. All he can do is be steadfast in his commitment to her, to their marriage, and to helping her become the queen he knows she can be.
He's always been the spare.
She was born the heir.
Together, they can form a new dynasty where even arranged marriages can turn into something beautiful.
Unfortunately, she's been secretly engaged to him since she was three.
Her mother, Queen Carlotta, has decided it's time for the two of them to get married - and Gabriel is all too keen to make it happen. But she saw what this kind of arrangement did to her own mother, and Esme wants nothing to do with it.
For his part, Gabriel has been in love with Esme since he was a teenager and deeply regrets his years of wild oat sowing - even if some of them did serve a greater purpose.
One he can't tell Esme about, not yet.
He knows, far better than she does, that their fledgling relationship is going to be tested to the hilt as life's body blows rain down. All he can do is be steadfast in his commitment to her, to their marriage, and to helping her become the queen he knows she can be.
He's always been the spare.
She was born the heir.
Together, they can form a new dynasty where even arranged marriages can turn into something beautiful.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 21, 2018
159 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Carol Moncado
78 books387 followersWhen she's not writing about her imaginary friends, Carol Moncado is hanging out with her husband, four kids, and a dog who weighs less than most hard cover books. She prefers watching NCIS to just about anything, except maybe watching Castle. She believes peanut butter M&Ms are the perfect food and Dr. Pepper should come in an IV. When not watching her kids - and the dog - race around her big backyard in Southwest Missouri, she's teaching American Government at a local community college. She's a founding member and President of MozArks ACFW, category coordinator for First Impressions, blogger at InspyRomance, and represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of The Steve Laube Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
February 23, 2022
One of my favorite of the series!
December 18, 2018
Carol Moncado has added another riveting book to her Crowns and Courtships books. I basically read the book in one sitting (with a few short breaks) because I couldn't put it down.
Moncado has some good insights: the contrast between owning and repenting of your mistakes versus blaming others for the results of those mistakes; how to practically show love to your spouse; how people CAN change from the way they lived years before; and how important it is to find our identity in Christ, not in how others view us.
As usual, there are plenty of plot twists (one reason it's hard to put the book down!), and as usual, I can't wait for the next book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Moncado has some good insights: the contrast between owning and repenting of your mistakes versus blaming others for the results of those mistakes; how to practically show love to your spouse; how people CAN change from the way they lived years before; and how important it is to find our identity in Christ, not in how others view us.
As usual, there are plenty of plot twists (one reason it's hard to put the book down!), and as usual, I can't wait for the next book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 25, 2018
I think this might be my favorite in the Crowns & Courtships series.
December 18, 2018
Carol Moncado captured my interest with her very first book and here I remain. I absolutely love her royalty stories. This one is really good, as is the others. Princess Esme is bound by law to marry Prince Gabriel, since she was 3 and he was 6. She is all grown up now, Crown Princess, but she doesn't want to marry him at all. But there is no loop hole to allow her an out. So marry him she must. Prince Gabriel, on the other hand, has always wanted to marry Esme. A handsome and noble hero, a reluctant heroine, with some intrigue thrown in and you have a wonderful read. I finished in one day!! Recommended.
*My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. My opinion here stated is entirely my own.
*My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. My opinion here stated is entirely my own.
February 11, 2023
I loved this one. I was really curious about these two and their back story and it did not disapoint. Gabe loved her but made some decisions in his younger years that he shouldn't, he tried to change that and he did, all for her. Esme had some trouble trusting him which was understandable, but at the end she realized that the only way for them to be really together, she had to trust him. They deserved their HEA and I'm glad they got it. I'm really curious about her brother though, and I don't know which book is his
December 19, 2018
To be completely honest, I am lucky enough to receive an advance reader copy- but I also buy the books later...I love them that much.
I’ve read ALL of Carol Moncado’s books- THIS is one of my favorites. Such a great story. Kept my attention. I found myself wanting to finish so I could learn what happened but on the other hand I DIDN'T want to finish because then it would be over.
No hesitation with this one- READ IT!
I’ve read ALL of Carol Moncado’s books- THIS is one of my favorites. Such a great story. Kept my attention. I found myself wanting to finish so I could learn what happened but on the other hand I DIDN'T want to finish because then it would be over.
No hesitation with this one- READ IT!
December 19, 2018
This was a really sweet story. I didn't want it to end, but I kept going back to it, even though my life is dreadfully busy.
The author gives you a story that feels royal, even though the countries are not real, the issues that a royal might face totally feel real! I love how the romance builds, but also the real issues that a couple would face in this kind of situation without giving anything away! Read it!
The author gives you a story that feels royal, even though the countries are not real, the issues that a royal might face totally feel real! I love how the romance builds, but also the real issues that a couple would face in this kind of situation without giving anything away! Read it!
January 1, 2019
I have read every book Carol Moncado has written. And in each one, I’m amazed at the way she ties each of the stories together, even if only in a small way. It makes it fun because you get to see characters popping in unexpectedly.
I was touched by Gabe’s feelings of worthlessness. As “the spare”, he was only important to his country if his brother died with no heir. As the second son, he felt as if he was expendable to his family as well, though that was more just the way his parents were (and his grandparents!) It didn’t help matters that his engagement was arranged and the only reason he got to marry the heir, Esme, was a treaty that required it.
Esme felt trapped into a marriage with Gabe. Because of his reputation, she really wanted nothing to do with him. Despite his claim that he had changed, she had a hard time trusting him. Yet he showed such kindness and care towards her that she began to hope.
As with the other stories in the Crowns and Courtships stories, this one had many tidbits scattered throughout about protocol in royal families that were interesting. I liked Gabe and Esme and wanted things to work out between them.
While the story was good, it did seem to drag a little in places. It might be for the same reason I’m not a huge fan of Downton Abbey, so I’m sure this is just my preference and not the book itself. While there was some mystery and drama, I would have liked a little more throughout instead of it mostly occurring towards the end. Also, I wasn’t entirely convinced that Gabe would have adopted the lifestyle he did for the reasons he did. Perhaps, but it seemed a bit overkill to me.
If you are a fan of books about royalty and enjoy serial dramas, you will likely greatly enjoy this series.
Read with a Preview at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
I was touched by Gabe’s feelings of worthlessness. As “the spare”, he was only important to his country if his brother died with no heir. As the second son, he felt as if he was expendable to his family as well, though that was more just the way his parents were (and his grandparents!) It didn’t help matters that his engagement was arranged and the only reason he got to marry the heir, Esme, was a treaty that required it.
Esme felt trapped into a marriage with Gabe. Because of his reputation, she really wanted nothing to do with him. Despite his claim that he had changed, she had a hard time trusting him. Yet he showed such kindness and care towards her that she began to hope.
As with the other stories in the Crowns and Courtships stories, this one had many tidbits scattered throughout about protocol in royal families that were interesting. I liked Gabe and Esme and wanted things to work out between them.
While the story was good, it did seem to drag a little in places. It might be for the same reason I’m not a huge fan of Downton Abbey, so I’m sure this is just my preference and not the book itself. While there was some mystery and drama, I would have liked a little more throughout instead of it mostly occurring towards the end. Also, I wasn’t entirely convinced that Gabe would have adopted the lifestyle he did for the reasons he did. Perhaps, but it seemed a bit overkill to me.
If you are a fan of books about royalty and enjoy serial dramas, you will likely greatly enjoy this series.
Read with a Preview at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
December 23, 2018
Carol Moncado has done it again and brought us into the world of royals!
I can’t imagine being told I was going to marry someone when I'm only three years old.
That could be really weird and difficult.
Would the guy like me, would I like him, would we get to see each other and develop a relationship?
All these questions might be floating around for years. I’m not sure I’d be okay with it. The trust needed would have to be very strong!
To further complicate these feelings, there are the royal family positions of an heir and the position of the extra one. The “just in case” one. (The Spare) These feelings on their own can be overwhelming but added to a very public marriage, it makes things much harder.
In this story, the author, Carol Moncado, has presented these situations and a few other painful issues to make an endearing story of a deep longing for acceptance and love.
I couldn’t put this book down. There were parts so sweet and parts I cried over. It kept me engaged the whole way through.
Once again I just need to say, If you LOVE reading stories regarding royalty and all that life can bring, then you really need to pick this book up and read it!
You won't be disappointed.
I received this book from the author and all opinions are my own.
I can’t imagine being told I was going to marry someone when I'm only three years old.
That could be really weird and difficult.
Would the guy like me, would I like him, would we get to see each other and develop a relationship?
All these questions might be floating around for years. I’m not sure I’d be okay with it. The trust needed would have to be very strong!
To further complicate these feelings, there are the royal family positions of an heir and the position of the extra one. The “just in case” one. (The Spare) These feelings on their own can be overwhelming but added to a very public marriage, it makes things much harder.
In this story, the author, Carol Moncado, has presented these situations and a few other painful issues to make an endearing story of a deep longing for acceptance and love.
I couldn’t put this book down. There were parts so sweet and parts I cried over. It kept me engaged the whole way through.
Once again I just need to say, If you LOVE reading stories regarding royalty and all that life can bring, then you really need to pick this book up and read it!
You won't be disappointed.
I received this book from the author and all opinions are my own.
December 29, 2018
A favorite of 2018! So good!
The Spare and the Heir is my favorite in the Crowns and Courtships series by Carol Moncado. That is saying a lot because, I have read and loved all of them! We have a playboy prince who has been secretly engaged to a crowned princess since she was three and he was age 6. What could go wrong, right?
Crowned Princess Esmeralda Louise Eliana of Islas del Sargasso is not excited when her mother, Queen Carlotta, publicly announces her engagement to Prince Gabriel Michael Joseph, third in line for the throne of Auverignon. She has seen him in person less than a handful of times and his reputation precedes him. Prince Gabriel does have a past but, has and will continue to try and clean up his reputation. Will it be enough for Esme to trust him? Can they really build a marriage with their past looming over their heads? They must if only for the sake of the press. However, after a shake up in both the Sargassoan and Auverignonian monarchies they must choose to fight together for the good of both of their native countries.
Can Esme and Gabe have a happy ending? Find out in the Spare and the Heir.
The Spare and the Heir is my favorite in the Crowns and Courtships series by Carol Moncado. That is saying a lot because, I have read and loved all of them! We have a playboy prince who has been secretly engaged to a crowned princess since she was three and he was age 6. What could go wrong, right?
Crowned Princess Esmeralda Louise Eliana of Islas del Sargasso is not excited when her mother, Queen Carlotta, publicly announces her engagement to Prince Gabriel Michael Joseph, third in line for the throne of Auverignon. She has seen him in person less than a handful of times and his reputation precedes him. Prince Gabriel does have a past but, has and will continue to try and clean up his reputation. Will it be enough for Esme to trust him? Can they really build a marriage with their past looming over their heads? They must if only for the sake of the press. However, after a shake up in both the Sargassoan and Auverignonian monarchies they must choose to fight together for the good of both of their native countries.
Can Esme and Gabe have a happy ending? Find out in the Spare and the Heir.
December 21, 2018
In Ms. Moncado’s latest release, Princess Esme and Prince Gabriel are engaged and are getting married with a short engagement. They have had an arranged marriage contract since Esme was three. Readers met both characters in previous books in this series. In those books, it was obvious that there was a little chemistry going on even though they seemed to dislike each other. Gabriel’s reputation is of a playboy and Esme doesn’t trust him at all. They are thrown together in a whirlwind marriage and you will have to read to discover what becomes of their relationship. Will they forgive each other of past mistakes? Will they be determined to work together in a way that benefits the country? If you have read the previous Crowns and Courtship books, you will get a few updates of previous characters. This is a romantic book, but also provides the reader with some important lessons as well. If you are looking for a cozy romantic story to read, this book is for you! I highly recommend this book and Ms. Moncado’s other books! You will not be disappointed!
December 25, 2018
A really great book
I shouldn’t have been surprised how much I loved this book-as I generally love Carol Moncado’s reads-but I especially loved this novel because I appreciated and adored both of the lead characters. Both Esme and Gabe were wonderful and inspired me to want to be a better me and to live in truth. They were both kind people who strove to live for the good and well being of others in their thoughtfulness and care of each other and their people. They were of course flawed and made mistakes, but that didn’t hinder the joy and righteousness do to the blood of Jesus, from showing in their (fictional) lives. They had their struggles, but they pulled through together in a marriage relationship that reflects Christ’s love for the church( or at least a representation as good as any human being might manage, flaws and all) Five stars definitely. And I would totally read this book again. I’ve got to agree. It’s one of my favorites.
I shouldn’t have been surprised how much I loved this book-as I generally love Carol Moncado’s reads-but I especially loved this novel because I appreciated and adored both of the lead characters. Both Esme and Gabe were wonderful and inspired me to want to be a better me and to live in truth. They were both kind people who strove to live for the good and well being of others in their thoughtfulness and care of each other and their people. They were of course flawed and made mistakes, but that didn’t hinder the joy and righteousness do to the blood of Jesus, from showing in their (fictional) lives. They had their struggles, but they pulled through together in a marriage relationship that reflects Christ’s love for the church( or at least a representation as good as any human being might manage, flaws and all) Five stars definitely. And I would totally read this book again. I’ve got to agree. It’s one of my favorites.
December 21, 2018
The Playboy Prince, is he really as bad as she thinks? Esme's about to find out, after all they've been engaged since she was three years old. Now Queen Carlotta simply puts her stiletto down and insists it's time for the wedding to happen.
Prince Gabriel of Auverignon is simply delish! Being human he's made his share of stupid decisions now he's paying the consequences.
A great late night read, just don't plan on getting up too early the next morning - it's hard to put down. As with her previous books Carol Moncado hits the mark with her royalty romances. Meet new kings and queens, princes and princesses, visit with a few old friends and prepare to become addicted.
Prince Gabriel of Auverignon is simply delish! Being human he's made his share of stupid decisions now he's paying the consequences.
A great late night read, just don't plan on getting up too early the next morning - it's hard to put down. As with her previous books Carol Moncado hits the mark with her royalty romances. Meet new kings and queens, princes and princesses, visit with a few old friends and prepare to become addicted.
December 24, 2018
Bittersweet
I love to read these kinds of books for the same reason someone loves to watch Hallmark movies-you know there will be ups and downs but you know it’s going to be uplifting and end well and you want to go on that journey with the characters. (I love to read Carol Moncado’s books specifically because she’s an excellent author but that’s tangential to the point I’m trying to make.) (***Small spoiler upcoming:) For me, as someone who has dealt with some of the same griefs that the main characters had to face, this one was much deeper than usual. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next piece of the royal story Carol weaves through all her books.
I love to read these kinds of books for the same reason someone loves to watch Hallmark movies-you know there will be ups and downs but you know it’s going to be uplifting and end well and you want to go on that journey with the characters. (I love to read Carol Moncado’s books specifically because she’s an excellent author but that’s tangential to the point I’m trying to make.) (***Small spoiler upcoming:) For me, as someone who has dealt with some of the same griefs that the main characters had to face, this one was much deeper than usual. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next piece of the royal story Carol weaves through all her books.
December 26, 2018
Here's what it takes for me to love a book: great, well-rounded, flawed and real characters; vivid settings with descriptions that put me right in the middle of the story; and original plots with plenty of twists and turns for the characters to grow through. Carol Moncado hits the mark every time. Esme and Gabe's story is a wonderful example of her writing talent. I honestly don't recall one of her books that I didn't love. Every one has me wondering how Carol's mind works to come up with all the details and the marvelous stories. If you haven't read any of her stories, I highly recommend that you give her a try. I think you'll be glad you did.
January 2, 2019
Many of Carol Moncado's stories are similar, mostly because many contain a royal family, and often one member of that family is part of an arranged marriage. This story contains the arranged marriage. They were engaged when she was three and he was six. They've always known they would marry one another; but misunderstandings cause them to take wrong turns in their journey to each other, and now they need to overcome those before they can have a life together. In the midst of struggling for a relationship with each other bad things are happening in his home kingdom and it is backlashing on them!
December 20, 2018
Loved this book. Gabe and Esme were both so lovable. I love the background work that gets laid into the characters. Their story with patience, understanding and love is a great way to learn about relationships. I especially like the way you see different family dynamics come into play through the book. It was such an easy book to read, and I didn’t want to put it down.
I was given an advanced reader copy in exchange for this review, but the thoughts are my own, and I will be paying for a copy because I just love this book and series.
I was given an advanced reader copy in exchange for this review, but the thoughts are my own, and I will be paying for a copy because I just love this book and series.
December 20, 2018
I was given an Advanced Reader's Copy of The Spare and the Heir. I have also pre-ordered my own copy. I am freely leaving a review.
Wow, what a great book! I love marriage of convenience stories and going through their journey of falling in love. Especially ones of royalty. A whole nother world. Prince Gariel and Princess Esme were marked to get married since she was three. Can you imagine the pressure that gives? Loved how it ties to all the other books Carold Moncado has written. Read The Spare and the Heir and learn of their journey to love. You won’t regret it.
Wow, what a great book! I love marriage of convenience stories and going through their journey of falling in love. Especially ones of royalty. A whole nother world. Prince Gariel and Princess Esme were marked to get married since she was three. Can you imagine the pressure that gives? Loved how it ties to all the other books Carold Moncado has written. Read The Spare and the Heir and learn of their journey to love. You won’t regret it.
December 30, 2018
Timely
Nowadays few come to marriage unscathed by the world and it’s lovely to read something that addresses the true hardships of the modern marriage. While exhibiting a deep compassion for broken actions, this amazing story also shows that a contrite heart recognizes consequences as natural, neither coming down too hard on either side for who they were. Instead it celebrates who the protagonists have become and asks you gently where your own heart is.
Truly lovely, so: Read. This!
Nowadays few come to marriage unscathed by the world and it’s lovely to read something that addresses the true hardships of the modern marriage. While exhibiting a deep compassion for broken actions, this amazing story also shows that a contrite heart recognizes consequences as natural, neither coming down too hard on either side for who they were. Instead it celebrates who the protagonists have become and asks you gently where your own heart is.
Truly lovely, so: Read. This!
December 21, 2018
Esme has been “engaged” to Gabe since she was 3 years old. Due to his reputation, she wants nothing to do with him, but her mother tells her it’s time to marry. A lot of mistrust on her part, plus her family life as well as his own feelings about being the spare make for an engaging story with a few surprise plot twists that keep you turning the pages. Love this whole series and this one is a great addition to it.
December 23, 2018
An inspiring royalty romance how gossip leads to misunderstanding between a couple betrothed as children. Past behaviors have consequences. A mole in the palace ranks, disinterested parents, heartache, miscarriage, and being a spare are themes that are addressed. An inspiring page turning romance with some unexpected plot twists and a satisfying ending. Carol Moncado has done her research about global monarchies. Be a royal for a day.
December 24, 2018
Another awesome book from Carol. I truly enjoyed this book. It's not easy going through the situations Esme and Have went through from having to deal with betrayal to trying to handle being not important enough and dealing with the people who are supposed to be the closest to you treating you like you don't matter, it was great to see them try to navigate through each other learning to understand themselves and falling in love with each other. Can't wait for the next book 😊
December 22, 2018
Ahhh cliffhanger!!!
Such an amazing book by the talented Carol Moncado. I've been waiting for this book since the last and now, I'm left hanging.....wanting to know what's happened. Seriously, I love you and hate you (not really) for this Mail. Moncado - you always leave me wanting more.
Such an amazing book by the talented Carol Moncado. I've been waiting for this book since the last and now, I'm left hanging.....wanting to know what's happened. Seriously, I love you and hate you (not really) for this Mail. Moncado - you always leave me wanting more.
December 22, 2018
A Beautiful Royal Romance
Princess Esmeralda and Prince Gabriel have been betrothed since childhood.This is their story.
Carol Moncado throws a wrench in the works that may destroy their new found love after their marriage.
I loved the storyline and the characters.
This was a beautiful book and recommended for those who love Christian romance about royals.
Princess Esmeralda and Prince Gabriel have been betrothed since childhood.This is their story.
Carol Moncado throws a wrench in the works that may destroy their new found love after their marriage.
I loved the storyline and the characters.
This was a beautiful book and recommended for those who love Christian romance about royals.
December 22, 2018
Excellent!
I loved this book! Maybe my favorite of the series. Definitely top 2 for me though! I love reading these books by Ms. Moncado! The characters are flawed, but still enjoyable; the government systems different and plausible at the same time. I always pre-order and am never disappointed by anything but the wait for the release!
I loved this book! Maybe my favorite of the series. Definitely top 2 for me though! I love reading these books by Ms. Moncado! The characters are flawed, but still enjoyable; the government systems different and plausible at the same time. I always pre-order and am never disappointed by anything but the wait for the release!
December 27, 2018
Enjoyable
I must admit, am biased. I really love her royalty books/series. Haven't read one I don't like, yet. There is always a great mix of adventure, suspense, some romance, underhanded plots by evil, apparent misdeeds and betrayals, plus a happy ending. What more could you ask for?
I must admit, am biased. I really love her royalty books/series. Haven't read one I don't like, yet. There is always a great mix of adventure, suspense, some romance, underhanded plots by evil, apparent misdeeds and betrayals, plus a happy ending. What more could you ask for?
December 27, 2018
Carol’s books never fail to draw me in hook, line, and sinker!! The characters were great and their story was one I am so glad to have read! I can never pick a favorite character in her books because they are all just too good... and this book was no different! I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my review... but the words and thoughts are totally my own
January 2, 2019
Always excellent
Carol’s books never disappoint. Except when they end...because I wish they didn’t.
Seriously.
I wish for more page swipes.
Another excellent book. I love the character growth Esme faces while facing real life challenges. Gabe is amazing as he comes into his own.
Well done, Carol. Already excited for the next one.
Carol’s books never disappoint. Except when they end...because I wish they didn’t.
Seriously.
I wish for more page swipes.
Another excellent book. I love the character growth Esme faces while facing real life challenges. Gabe is amazing as he comes into his own.
Well done, Carol. Already excited for the next one.
July 12, 2020
A Royal Love Story
If you enjoy stories about Princes and Princesses, Kings and Queens and happy endings this is the book for you. Great story development and action packed; lots of unexpected twists and turns and a great happy ending. Loved it and couldn't put it down until I " turned" the last page. Recommended great read!
If you enjoy stories about Princes and Princesses, Kings and Queens and happy endings this is the book for you. Great story development and action packed; lots of unexpected twists and turns and a great happy ending. Loved it and couldn't put it down until I " turned" the last page. Recommended great read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews