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Royal Brides #3
Queen of Barrakesch
They had no idea how much their lives would change…forever.
Imani Karunzika is fiercely independent and refuses to be forced into a loveless marriage with the domineering man her parents want for her. When her friend Crown Prince Wasim al-Hassan of Barrakesch learns he’ll be passed over for the throne because he has no wife, she suggests a plan where they enter into a fake engagement. He can then secure his birthright, and she can get her parents off her back.
But the marriage must proceed as planned. Wasim becomes the king, she becomes the queen and is now under the rule of a man whose power and authority is unmatched. But Imani’s greatest struggle lies not within the walls of the palace, but inside herself as she fights to keep the ultimate secret—that she’s madly in love with the king.
Imani Karunzika is fiercely independent and refuses to be forced into a loveless marriage with the domineering man her parents want for her. When her friend Crown Prince Wasim al-Hassan of Barrakesch learns he’ll be passed over for the throne because he has no wife, she suggests a plan where they enter into a fake engagement. He can then secure his birthright, and she can get her parents off her back.
But the marriage must proceed as planned. Wasim becomes the king, she becomes the queen and is now under the rule of a man whose power and authority is unmatched. But Imani’s greatest struggle lies not within the walls of the palace, but inside herself as she fights to keep the ultimate secret—that she’s madly in love with the king.
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2020
249 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
Delaney Diamond
103 books9,770 followersDelaney Diamond is the USA Today Bestselling Author of more than 60 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels, and dozens of romance short stories. She reads romance novels, mysteries, thrillers, and a fair amount of nonfiction. When she’s not spinning tales of romantic fiction, she’s in the kitchen trying out new recipes, dining at one of her favorite restaurants, or traveling to an interesting locale.
She enjoys learning about time management and ways to increase productivity and shares her recommendations on her For Authors page at delaneydiamond.com. She also offers self-publishing consultations, leveraging her extensive experience to guide and support authors through the publishing process.
-Website: www.delaneydiamond.com
-Amazon page: https://www.amazon.com/author/delaney...
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delaneydiam...
X: https://twitter.com/DelaneyDiamond
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She enjoys learning about time management and ways to increase productivity and shares her recommendations on her For Authors page at delaneydiamond.com. She also offers self-publishing consultations, leveraging her extensive experience to guide and support authors through the publishing process.
-Website: www.delaneydiamond.com
-Amazon page: https://www.amazon.com/author/delaney...
Newsletter signup: https://geni.us/DDNews
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delaneydiam...
X: https://twitter.com/DelaneyDiamond
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DelaneyDiamond
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 28, 2020
This book was beyond boring to the point where I skipped a lot of it until it became interesting. I even skimmed the epilogue because it was boring as well. It was a plot line I hate, two friends secretly love each other and think their getting into an arranged marriage with no love on either side. Tons of misunderstandings and miscommunication arises to the point where they eventually admit their love for one another. The first half is so uninteresting with so much unnecessary detail that I started skipping until I got to their marriage. The book gets more interest towards 80% mark. A surprise reveal at the end could have been apart of the plot and turned the story into a mystery/thriller or the fact that she wants to remain Christian while married to a Arab Conservative Muslim king in a very conservative society. So many opportunities here the author could have explored. This was 2.5 read for me.
March 27, 2020
Hard to rate
The book left me with mixed feelings. I’m not a fan of fake engagements but this one was well written and I really liked the final twist. I like that the author gave a believable answer rather than a fairytale one. However Imani came across as spoilt and it was really hard for me to appreciate her as an heroine.
I understand not wanting to be married but basically she offered this fake relationship knowing what the stakes would be for him and them throwing her toys out of the pram when things don’t go her way. It was obvious from the start that unraveling the engagement once Wasim became king would have been difficult even if he didn’t have feelings for her.
She’s talking about love and equality but she wanted to marry Abou because he seemed kind and she thought she could manipulate him. More than a feminist she came across as selfish, self absorbed and somewhat of a teenager with rebellious streak.
Had she thought this through, instead of insulting Wasim, given that she has feelings for him, she should have negotiated terms to at least start on the right foot and then go from there. If she really didn’t want to stay married she should have negotiated the ending of the marriage. She kept complaining about his lack of attention but never offered any herself. Basically she behaved in a subservient manner whilst stating that it’s wasn’t what she wanted. Childish behavior. She seems to completely forget that his father was dead and he suddenly became King and was probably under a lot of pressure. Even in the name of their old friendship and chalking his behavior to temporary insanity she should have pushed for more. A real equal footing, as much as one can with a king. Even during the kidnapping, her attitude was confusing. On one hand she fought, on the other she told them that she’s pregnant. As an aside, I’m all for literary license, however I doubt that even the most “progressive king” in that region, given that dating is forbidden, would be ok with his wife not being a virgin. A christian was accepting enough.
The book left me with mixed feelings. I’m not a fan of fake engagements but this one was well written and I really liked the final twist. I like that the author gave a believable answer rather than a fairytale one. However Imani came across as spoilt and it was really hard for me to appreciate her as an heroine.
I understand not wanting to be married but basically she offered this fake relationship knowing what the stakes would be for him and them throwing her toys out of the pram when things don’t go her way. It was obvious from the start that unraveling the engagement once Wasim became king would have been difficult even if he didn’t have feelings for her.
She’s talking about love and equality but she wanted to marry Abou because he seemed kind and she thought she could manipulate him. More than a feminist she came across as selfish, self absorbed and somewhat of a teenager with rebellious streak.
Had she thought this through, instead of insulting Wasim, given that she has feelings for him, she should have negotiated terms to at least start on the right foot and then go from there. If she really didn’t want to stay married she should have negotiated the ending of the marriage. She kept complaining about his lack of attention but never offered any herself. Basically she behaved in a subservient manner whilst stating that it’s wasn’t what she wanted. Childish behavior. She seems to completely forget that his father was dead and he suddenly became King and was probably under a lot of pressure. Even in the name of their old friendship and chalking his behavior to temporary insanity she should have pushed for more. A real equal footing, as much as one can with a king. Even during the kidnapping, her attitude was confusing. On one hand she fought, on the other she told them that she’s pregnant. As an aside, I’m all for literary license, however I doubt that even the most “progressive king” in that region, given that dating is forbidden, would be ok with his wife not being a virgin. A christian was accepting enough.
May 10, 2020
😍😍😍
Love this Royal Brides series. Wasim and Imani’s story did not disappoint. Friends to King and Queen to lovers. Great job Delaney.
Love this Royal Brides series. Wasim and Imani’s story did not disappoint. Friends to King and Queen to lovers. Great job Delaney.
September 7, 2020
Do y'all remember the Nora Roberts Candida series or the Harlequin Presents sheik type novels? This gave me the same vibes but updated for a contemporary audience with a black African heroine and more cultural competency. The world building is super interesting. Fun read
March 27, 2020
I suppose I could be feeling generous with my pandemic reads, so grateful for new juice that I'm happy to dole out five-star reviews...but it could also be that I woke up super early this morning and was sitting here looking stupid and this book had just slid into my Kindle and I decided to start reading. And couldn't stop. It's really, really good.
I had a discussion with the author surrounding my dislike for faux relationship books. I said, when I read Temporary Wife Temptation, that I decided that I won't read them except under specific circumstances. Given the culture and traditions that are the complete opposite of western culture and tradition, the need and requirement to find someone or we will find someone for you is strong. I got it, I felt it, I was stressed along with the characters. If the author provides a good, logical reason to fake up a relationship, that's good drama. You scared to tell your grandma that you're still single? Need you to man up.
Queen of Barrakesch is the third in the royal brides series. Each has been decadence and perfection from the front cover (WOW, by the way) to the back page. This book continues in that tradition. I try not to miss a Delaney Diamond... do NOT miss out on this title. #Putitinyourface
I had a discussion with the author surrounding my dislike for faux relationship books. I said, when I read Temporary Wife Temptation, that I decided that I won't read them except under specific circumstances. Given the culture and traditions that are the complete opposite of western culture and tradition, the need and requirement to find someone or we will find someone for you is strong. I got it, I felt it, I was stressed along with the characters. If the author provides a good, logical reason to fake up a relationship, that's good drama. You scared to tell your grandma that you're still single? Need you to man up.
Queen of Barrakesch is the third in the royal brides series. Each has been decadence and perfection from the front cover (WOW, by the way) to the back page. This book continues in that tradition. I try not to miss a Delaney Diamond... do NOT miss out on this title. #Putitinyourface
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2020
I've been waiting to see just how Delaney Diamond was going to bring Imani and Wasim together, and let's just say that she didn't disappoint. i really liked these two, and thought they made a great match. i had assumptions about how this story would play out, but Ms. Diamond showed me why writing books is not my calling, lol. Definitely didnt see the Yasmin/Farouk situation coming; I truly hated to see how things ended up for them.
I really enjoyed this series. Each cover was absolutely beautiful and each story rich and colorful. I'm gonna miss these couples.
I really enjoyed this series. Each cover was absolutely beautiful and each story rich and colorful. I'm gonna miss these couples.
March 27, 2020
Good story.
Neither are virgins despite strict cultural views.
Known each other before a relationship.
Brief reference to previous relationships by both but no details.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
No other woman or man drama.
HEA.
Neither are virgins despite strict cultural views.
Known each other before a relationship.
Brief reference to previous relationships by both but no details.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
No other woman or man drama.
HEA.
May 1, 2020
Enjoyed!
This was an enjoyable friendship to love story. I love the storyline and the main two characters. I wished it was more of their story.
This was an enjoyable friendship to love story. I love the storyline and the main two characters. I wished it was more of their story.
June 28, 2021
I didn't read the other books in the series so I'm reviewing this book alone.
I liked the characters at first. They were friends who'd had one kiss and wanted more but couldn't because of religious and traditional reasons since the story is set in a conservative, Muslim country. A part of me wondered why they never met up in any other country since they were both supposedly worldly, well traveled political people, but fine. Point is, the initial sexual tension mixed in with the long running friendship worked...
But then plot events happen and the heroine proposes a fake marriage trope that'll fix both their problems and the hero accepts. Tension builds...
And then once he's King it all starts to fall apart a little. Suddenly they're not friends anymore who tell each other everything. They stop telling each other anything. That whole friends to lovers aspect goes out the window. The hero devolves into an alpha male whose first option is blackmail...
He blackmails his fiance into marrying him, but once they have the sex that the sexual tension of the one kiss had promised, she's in love. All the meekness and obedience she could never tolerate, becomes a minor inconvenience. Wasim soon comes around to the idea that he does in fact love the woman he's been thirsting after for years, this makes her happy, and since they're already married, that's fine, I guess...
The conflict I thought was coming, that was repeatedly teased, never quite materialized.
I was prepped to give it a five star review early on. Friends-to-lovers, star-crossed religious conservatives and High councils, royal families squaring off? It should have been my jam.
Really nice cover tho...
I liked the characters at first. They were friends who'd had one kiss and wanted more but couldn't because of religious and traditional reasons since the story is set in a conservative, Muslim country. A part of me wondered why they never met up in any other country since they were both supposedly worldly, well traveled political people, but fine. Point is, the initial sexual tension mixed in with the long running friendship worked...
But then plot events happen and the heroine proposes a fake marriage trope that'll fix both their problems and the hero accepts. Tension builds...
And then once he's King it all starts to fall apart a little. Suddenly they're not friends anymore who tell each other everything. They stop telling each other anything. That whole friends to lovers aspect goes out the window. The hero devolves into an alpha male whose first option is blackmail...
He blackmails his fiance into marrying him, but once they have the sex that the sexual tension of the one kiss had promised, she's in love. All the meekness and obedience she could never tolerate, becomes a minor inconvenience. Wasim soon comes around to the idea that he does in fact love the woman he's been thirsting after for years, this makes her happy, and since they're already married, that's fine, I guess...
The conflict I thought was coming, that was repeatedly teased, never quite materialized.
I was prepped to give it a five star review early on. Friends-to-lovers, star-crossed religious conservatives and High councils, royal families squaring off? It should have been my jam.
Really nice cover tho...
April 26, 2020
I enjoyed this story, but this review was hard to write, because for everything I liked, there seemed to be something that didn't particularly work for me. So here goes...
Imani and Wassim are friends who shared one steamy kiss about a year ago. Smart and fiercely independent, Imani wants to be valued for her brain rather than her marriageability or child-bearing potential. She's also a romantic at heart and wants to marry for love. Wassim, the crown prince of Barrakesch, is everything you expect from a rich and entitled alpha male, but he has a soft side that is clear to see.
With the threat of arranged marriages looming over both their heads, a fake engagement seems like a good plan. Everyone who matters seems to be happy with this turn of events. Things get interesting when time comes to call off the engagement. A little blackmail goes a long way to move them from engaged to married.
The romance is sweet, and the sex scenes are sizzling. Barrakeschi cultural practices are seamlessly woven into the narration. If you like vivid description of settings, then you'll particularly enjoy the wedding scene.
I liked that racism isn't an issue in this story despite Imani being African and Wassim being Arab. Religion, on the other hand, is introduced as a major conflict with Imani being Christian and Wassim being Muslim. However, for the number of times it is mentioned prior to their marriage, it never really becomes a point of conflict.
Given the aforementioned blackmail, I expected Imani and Wassim's relationship to be volatile. For a heroine who is described as fiercely independent, I felt Imani succumbed too easily to Wassim's charms (in her defence, he was charming).
There's also a plot twist that seemed unnecessary, because all it does (IMO) is to discredit arranged marriages, which in this particular case shouldn't have been the case.
Overall, I enjoyed this story very much. Delaney Diamond's fluid writing style moves things along at an even pace. Wassim and Imani are well-matched. It was a thrill to see the main characters from the first two books and find out what's happening with them post-HEA.
Imani and Wassim are friends who shared one steamy kiss about a year ago. Smart and fiercely independent, Imani wants to be valued for her brain rather than her marriageability or child-bearing potential. She's also a romantic at heart and wants to marry for love. Wassim, the crown prince of Barrakesch, is everything you expect from a rich and entitled alpha male, but he has a soft side that is clear to see.
With the threat of arranged marriages looming over both their heads, a fake engagement seems like a good plan. Everyone who matters seems to be happy with this turn of events. Things get interesting when time comes to call off the engagement. A little blackmail goes a long way to move them from engaged to married.
The romance is sweet, and the sex scenes are sizzling. Barrakeschi cultural practices are seamlessly woven into the narration. If you like vivid description of settings, then you'll particularly enjoy the wedding scene.
I liked that racism isn't an issue in this story despite Imani being African and Wassim being Arab. Religion, on the other hand, is introduced as a major conflict with Imani being Christian and Wassim being Muslim. However, for the number of times it is mentioned prior to their marriage, it never really becomes a point of conflict.
Given the aforementioned blackmail, I expected Imani and Wassim's relationship to be volatile. For a heroine who is described as fiercely independent, I felt Imani succumbed too easily to Wassim's charms (in her defence, he was charming).
There's also a plot twist that seemed unnecessary, because all it does (IMO) is to discredit arranged marriages, which in this particular case shouldn't have been the case.
Overall, I enjoyed this story very much. Delaney Diamond's fluid writing style moves things along at an even pace. Wassim and Imani are well-matched. It was a thrill to see the main characters from the first two books and find out what's happening with them post-HEA.
March 18, 2021
On the plus side, this was a sheikh romance that wasn't racist, which is practically unique for the subgenre. (That's not fair, I haven't read very widely in it because I keep coming across racism. But there could be more non-racist ones out there, I don't know.) However, that doesn't mean it's not problematic; while the fictional Barrakesch seems like a well-drawn depiction of a middle eastern gulf state, it's very Romancelandia, meaning that none of the issues said state might actually be dealing with (sexual harassment, religious bigotry, exploitation of foreign workers, etc.) really come up. The king and his many siblings are all well-intentioned, etc. etc. The question of how the royal family has so much money is never addressed; women are working for men in relatively intimate roles (assistant, etc.) with no questions. And, like, it's fine, I get it, that is not the Romancelandia way, but just be aware it's Romancelandia. It's like a non-racist, better-researched Harlequin Presents sheikh novel in that sense.
Plot-wise it also has some flaws. It started out strong - our heroine is a princess from a fictional African country, the hero and heroine are friends, it's a fake relationship turned marriage of convenience turned love match, it's great. Towards the end, however, there's a lot of drama that comes out of nowhere: All things considered, though, this is a really great, trope-y take on the contemporary romance novel with a lot more diversity and research and thought than you often see in the very trope-y books.
Plot-wise it also has some flaws. It started out strong - our heroine is a princess from a fictional African country, the hero and heroine are friends, it's a fake relationship turned marriage of convenience turned love match, it's great. Towards the end, however, there's a lot of drama that comes out of nowhere: All things considered, though, this is a really great, trope-y take on the contemporary romance novel with a lot more diversity and research and thought than you often see in the very trope-y books.
December 30, 2020
3.5*
Overall I really enjoyed the book and since I haven’t read that many in such setting, it was more refreshing to me, thou I would’ve liked even more of the culture to be used to make it even more distinct.
Only one problem and one annoyance:
Problem - uhhh…can’t really say ‘cuz spoiler, but it happened towards the end and was totally unnecessary. Book would’ve been fine without it. .
The annoyance - both leads were too afraid to flat out say to the other what they felt immediately solving any misunderstandings and hurt feelings, but since it’s the usual “better keep quiet lest I reveal my feelings and get hurt” …as if they’re not hurting already (-_-)
And thus was the only, stupid, reason for any “problems”….in other words - the usual “stupid & annoying not talking misunderstanding that drives the majority of the plot but could be solved within 5 minutes of talk if they weren’t coward-ish”
That’s it.
Also, not a fan of how controlling the dude was - yeah, yeah, he's a king in a country with traditions where men rule, but 'eff you - I don't like it. Especially with the FL's character where she's all for girl power.
Other than that - the book was fine.
This is actually a 3rd one in the series, but can be read as a standalone.
Also, after this one I was looking into reading the previous 2 books, but upon reading several reviews found out they're well...rather disgusting concerning the ML's and their overbearing me-man-you-woman-obey bullshit attitude aaaaand, yeah, lost any interest whatsoever.
Those two are not even close to the annoyance that this one was, this is just the tip of the iceberg, as it turns out to be.
Oh well.
Queen of Barrakesch was ok and that's ok :D
Overall I really enjoyed the book and since I haven’t read that many in such setting, it was more refreshing to me, thou I would’ve liked even more of the culture to be used to make it even more distinct.
Only one problem and one annoyance:
Problem - uhhh…can’t really say ‘cuz spoiler, but it happened towards the end and was totally unnecessary. Book would’ve been fine without it. .
The annoyance - both leads were too afraid to flat out say to the other what they felt immediately solving any misunderstandings and hurt feelings, but since it’s the usual “better keep quiet lest I reveal my feelings and get hurt” …as if they’re not hurting already (-_-)
And thus was the only, stupid, reason for any “problems”….in other words - the usual “stupid & annoying not talking misunderstanding that drives the majority of the plot but could be solved within 5 minutes of talk if they weren’t coward-ish”
That’s it.
Also, not a fan of how controlling the dude was - yeah, yeah, he's a king in a country with traditions where men rule, but 'eff you - I don't like it. Especially with the FL's character where she's all for girl power.
Other than that - the book was fine.
This is actually a 3rd one in the series, but can be read as a standalone.
Also, after this one I was looking into reading the previous 2 books, but upon reading several reviews found out they're well...rather disgusting concerning the ML's and their overbearing me-man-you-woman-obey bullshit attitude aaaaand, yeah, lost any interest whatsoever.
Those two are not even close to the annoyance that this one was, this is just the tip of the iceberg, as it turns out to be.
Oh well.
Queen of Barrakesch was ok and that's ok :D
July 24, 2021
I liked the setting and the cultures the author created but things took a turn when it came to the “fake” engagement. Long story short (and spoilers ahead) upon the death of his father the king, Prince Wasim forced Imani’s hand when it came to their marriage, giving her little choice but to go through with it or risk the future of her country and the work she’d put in as ambassador. The stupidest thing is as they repetitively say in the narrative the two characters do have chemistry but she doesn’t wish to marry anyone except someone who loves her and Wasim is some way there already (they were friends before all this—and had even kissed!) so all he had to do was woo her. I was willing him to do so in my head but no, instead he withholds a development beneficial to both their countries until she agrees to marry him. It was so frustrating to read that I just couldn’t anymore. I read a bit after that and on their wedding night her (rightful) anger at him had lessened and when he kisses her, all is lost. I truly had enough at that point and stopped reading. It’s a shame as I had high hopes for this book otherwise but the contrived drama had to get in the way. I really don’t know what stopped Wasim from telling Imani how he felt about her, up to and including his jealousy at the thought of her with another man, one she considered marrying. That lack of communication lessened their connection for me and made me think the bulk of his feelings is just lust and having to have her at any cost.
March 28, 2020
This is what happens when friends really become lovers!
What can one say about a gorgeous Arab Prince and a stunning African Woman of Royalty who just happens to be the Ambassador to this Prince's homeland meet, have an encounter, remain friends though attracted to each other for real then take their relationship to the ultimate level of marriage? Such was the case of future king of Barrakesch Crown Prince Wasim al Hassan and African Ambassador Imani Karunzika. Their story involved miscommunication, greed, betrayal, a sad severing of a part of the Royal family and ultimately full acceptance of the Queen by conservative sections of government. The conclusion was bittersweet in that the now King and Queen are surrounded by their friends and respective offspring while a part of King Wasim's family must forever live apart. I found myself siding with Imani and wanting to forgive everyone involved and my heart broke for Yasmin understanding what her future was destined to be through no fault of her own. This was an excellent story and although a work of fiction, I could believe families of Royalty behaving as this group of Royals behaved. I was glad to see as in the other Royal Brides Series, they all loved their people and used their positions to give them better lives!!!!! A really, really great story!!!! Now Delaney Diamond you most certainly must take a well deserved BOW!!!!!! I loved it!
What can one say about a gorgeous Arab Prince and a stunning African Woman of Royalty who just happens to be the Ambassador to this Prince's homeland meet, have an encounter, remain friends though attracted to each other for real then take their relationship to the ultimate level of marriage? Such was the case of future king of Barrakesch Crown Prince Wasim al Hassan and African Ambassador Imani Karunzika. Their story involved miscommunication, greed, betrayal, a sad severing of a part of the Royal family and ultimately full acceptance of the Queen by conservative sections of government. The conclusion was bittersweet in that the now King and Queen are surrounded by their friends and respective offspring while a part of King Wasim's family must forever live apart. I found myself siding with Imani and wanting to forgive everyone involved and my heart broke for Yasmin understanding what her future was destined to be through no fault of her own. This was an excellent story and although a work of fiction, I could believe families of Royalty behaving as this group of Royals behaved. I was glad to see as in the other Royal Brides Series, they all loved their people and used their positions to give them better lives!!!!! A really, really great story!!!! Now Delaney Diamond you most certainly must take a well deserved BOW!!!!!! I loved it!
June 28, 2020
Queen of Barrakesch is the third and final book in the Royal Brides series.
Prince Wasim, heir to the throne of Barrakesch and Imani, the Country’s
Zamidian ambassador, are mentioned in previous books and the reader is
eager to learn more about them.
Ms. Diamond aptly describes the setting in the opening scene. There is a
perfect visual of Wasim, looking up at the beautiful night sky as he is
interacting with his family. He has a sense of calm that is short lived when he
finds out his father has called for him.
Wasim developed a friendship with Imani that started when Prince Kofi asks
Wasim to keep an eye on his Cousin. They have a playful relationship, which
includes flirting and the occasional touch outside of the conservative
country. Something changed after they shared an unexpected
encounter. Wasim has fallen hard. Imani has feelings too, but they have yet to
be explored. No doubt they are physically attracted to each
other, they also share a similar sense of humor and they are both independent,
focused and rebellious.
Ms. Diamond keeps the reader guessing and takes a detour on the way to HEA. With Queen of Barrakesch, Ms. Diamond has saved the best for last.
Prince Wasim, heir to the throne of Barrakesch and Imani, the Country’s
Zamidian ambassador, are mentioned in previous books and the reader is
eager to learn more about them.
Ms. Diamond aptly describes the setting in the opening scene. There is a
perfect visual of Wasim, looking up at the beautiful night sky as he is
interacting with his family. He has a sense of calm that is short lived when he
finds out his father has called for him.
Wasim developed a friendship with Imani that started when Prince Kofi asks
Wasim to keep an eye on his Cousin. They have a playful relationship, which
includes flirting and the occasional touch outside of the conservative
country. Something changed after they shared an unexpected
encounter. Wasim has fallen hard. Imani has feelings too, but they have yet to
be explored. No doubt they are physically attracted to each
other, they also share a similar sense of humor and they are both independent,
focused and rebellious.
Ms. Diamond keeps the reader guessing and takes a detour on the way to HEA. With Queen of Barrakesch, Ms. Diamond has saved the best for last.
March 28, 2020
Wasim and Imani road to marriage
I have always been fascinated by the concept of an arranged marriage. Which is why Married at First Sight is one of my guilty pleasures. Therefore it intrigues me to see how Delaney would orchestrate the marriage that would be required for Wasim to take the throne. Under unforseen circumstances the kingdom of Barrakesch is rocked when King Khalid health takes a turn and ultimate decision for his successor was needed. In the story you get to see familiar faces and also how one unpacks emotional baggage. You'll see what it means to be vulnerable. And how love is not just a word but an action. You'll love the strength of Imani and her desire to carve her own path. You'll love Wasim and his protective nature. Throughout the story you will want more. Whether it's more suspense from what truly will rock the kingdom forever.
I have always been fascinated by the concept of an arranged marriage. Which is why Married at First Sight is one of my guilty pleasures. Therefore it intrigues me to see how Delaney would orchestrate the marriage that would be required for Wasim to take the throne. Under unforseen circumstances the kingdom of Barrakesch is rocked when King Khalid health takes a turn and ultimate decision for his successor was needed. In the story you get to see familiar faces and also how one unpacks emotional baggage. You'll see what it means to be vulnerable. And how love is not just a word but an action. You'll love the strength of Imani and her desire to carve her own path. You'll love Wasim and his protective nature. Throughout the story you will want more. Whether it's more suspense from what truly will rock the kingdom forever.
April 4, 2020
Sweet, but Confusing
This story was about a strong woman and a strong man who get married. So far so good. The problem is many times in the story she was referenced as a "Christian" he is a Muslim. The story is sweet, but I am weary of authors who reference their characters as Christians, but those characters in no way, demonstrate their Christianity. First problem that they even married (extenuating circumstances). Ok he even prayed she never does; even in the midst of a harrowing experience. These kinds of stories always confuse me. What is the author's intent? If the purpose was to show tension between the two religions, there was none. Only one time did she state a marriage between them would not work. There was some outside force tension, but nothing within their relationship. So it seems she was Christian only in the respect that she was not Muslim.
This story was about a strong woman and a strong man who get married. So far so good. The problem is many times in the story she was referenced as a "Christian" he is a Muslim. The story is sweet, but I am weary of authors who reference their characters as Christians, but those characters in no way, demonstrate their Christianity. First problem that they even married (extenuating circumstances). Ok he even prayed she never does; even in the midst of a harrowing experience. These kinds of stories always confuse me. What is the author's intent? If the purpose was to show tension between the two religions, there was none. Only one time did she state a marriage between them would not work. There was some outside force tension, but nothing within their relationship. So it seems she was Christian only in the respect that she was not Muslim.
August 4, 2023
I initially enjoyed the beginning of this book, it lags a bit the middle with the fake engagement which annoyed me because that problem could have been resolved with one good conversation.
Whereas in other sheikh/king romances, class, race, religion, financial, status and education are potential bars as to why ppl don't want the two love interests to be married, in this book they're almost equal and race seems to have no effect. Most chatacters supported them yet we have to hear the fmc go on and on about how she wants to marry for love even tho they ....kind of are in love, they just skirt around it for no good reason. It's just a little taxing on my patience.
Otherwise the plot twist is ok... it's an okay book, I'm pretty interested in trying something else from this author, I just don't think this specific plot is my preference. But if this is your type, definitely take a read.
Whereas in other sheikh/king romances, class, race, religion, financial, status and education are potential bars as to why ppl don't want the two love interests to be married, in this book they're almost equal and race seems to have no effect. Most chatacters supported them yet we have to hear the fmc go on and on about how she wants to marry for love even tho they ....kind of are in love, they just skirt around it for no good reason. It's just a little taxing on my patience.
Otherwise the plot twist is ok... it's an okay book, I'm pretty interested in trying something else from this author, I just don't think this specific plot is my preference. But if this is your type, definitely take a read.
April 12, 2020
When temporary love becomes permanent
This story was my favorite of the series. Imani was independent, courageous, intelligent, and commanded respect. Her entire life she wanted to be treated as her brothers were treated, which meant with respect and free will. She was smitten with her cousins friend Prince Wasim but didn't feel like it could be something real. Wasim had always liked Imani and her challenging ways. They ended up having a great friendship. When life throws Wasim a curveball, Imani is there to help him solve it. What was supposed to be a temporary solution ends up being one Wasim can't bear to let go. I loved that these characters eventually stopped being afraid to communicate as a couple and I enjoyed their growth throughout the book.
This story was my favorite of the series. Imani was independent, courageous, intelligent, and commanded respect. Her entire life she wanted to be treated as her brothers were treated, which meant with respect and free will. She was smitten with her cousins friend Prince Wasim but didn't feel like it could be something real. Wasim had always liked Imani and her challenging ways. They ended up having a great friendship. When life throws Wasim a curveball, Imani is there to help him solve it. What was supposed to be a temporary solution ends up being one Wasim can't bear to let go. I loved that these characters eventually stopped being afraid to communicate as a couple and I enjoyed their growth throughout the book.
April 2, 2020
His Queen
I love the fact that Wasim and Imani was already in love with and desired one another plus they really had a good, communicative friendship. Kofi wasn't playing any games when it came to Imani and was on guard to shut everything down. Their wedding night was everything though🔥🔥 I liked the plot twist that showed that even family will betray you when it comes to money and Wasim implemented mercy as he and Imani had previously discussed. It's sad that Yasmin and their sons have to suffer because of Farouk's actions. I love the family/friendship dynamics between Kofi and Dahlia, Andres and Angela, and Wasim and Imani and I hope to read about them again.
I love the fact that Wasim and Imani was already in love with and desired one another plus they really had a good, communicative friendship. Kofi wasn't playing any games when it came to Imani and was on guard to shut everything down. Their wedding night was everything though🔥🔥 I liked the plot twist that showed that even family will betray you when it comes to money and Wasim implemented mercy as he and Imani had previously discussed. It's sad that Yasmin and their sons have to suffer because of Farouk's actions. I love the family/friendship dynamics between Kofi and Dahlia, Andres and Angela, and Wasim and Imani and I hope to read about them again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2024
Imani and Wassim are friends. She is his best friend's little cousin. Her parents are trying to set up an arranged marriage for her. When he needs to marry so that he can claim the throne of his country, she suggests that they pretend to be engaged. Then he decides that they should actually get married. She doesn't agree because she wants to marry for love. He forces her hand by holding a project Ashe cares deeply about over her head.
These two had chemistry. It was clear to see in the earlier books in the series. She loves him but wasn't sure he loves her. He did love her but was terrible at showing it.
I enjoyed this book. The entire series was really good.
These two had chemistry. It was clear to see in the earlier books in the series. She loves him but wasn't sure he loves her. He did love her but was terrible at showing it.
I enjoyed this book. The entire series was really good.
May 29, 2020
Wasim and Imani were the cutest couple before they married. I was worried about them after the marriage, though.
Even with their different backgrounds, the feelings they had for one another was undeniable. I enjoyed the causes they both championed and the mutual respect and support they had for one another.
Wasim was a true King and Imani was truly the one to be by his side as his Queen.
The entire series was beautifully written and would love to hear from these couples again. Perhaps their children will grace us with some adventures? One can only hope!
Even with their different backgrounds, the feelings they had for one another was undeniable. I enjoyed the causes they both championed and the mutual respect and support they had for one another.
Wasim was a true King and Imani was truly the one to be by his side as his Queen.
The entire series was beautifully written and would love to hear from these couples again. Perhaps their children will grace us with some adventures? One can only hope!
April 2, 2020
I enjoyed this book. A friends to lovers romance. Prince Wassim needs a wife before he can be king and turns to his friend Imani, a royal from Africa. They both are of different religions with different ideas about marriage but they eventually find a way to make it work. They had a steamy sexual chemistry.
At first Wasim started out as a somewhat patriarchal asshole but later learnt to relax his rigid stance.
I didn’t expect the twist at the end.
I recommend
At first Wasim started out as a somewhat patriarchal asshole but later learnt to relax his rigid stance.
I didn’t expect the twist at the end.
I recommend
April 18, 2020
I love it, I love it!
Their teasing was comical with a little fervor. But I would have never known that there was more between them until you find out about their little tete-a-tete in Estoria. Their attraction was off the charts, but I would have never known that Wasim was so persuasive in getting Imani to say yes to his proposal. They should have been up front with their feelings. I couldn't help but be in awe that Imani could hold her own. I truly enjoyed their story.
Their teasing was comical with a little fervor. But I would have never known that there was more between them until you find out about their little tete-a-tete in Estoria. Their attraction was off the charts, but I would have never known that Wasim was so persuasive in getting Imani to say yes to his proposal. They should have been up front with their feelings. I couldn't help but be in awe that Imani could hold her own. I truly enjoyed their story.
July 12, 2020
Black Royalty - every chapter warmed my heart and left a smile on my face.
This is the representation every black child deserves to have. I have throughly enjoyed this series of books. Every time I read one it leaves a smile on my face. The playfulness and humor wrapped into a love story Tends to make me believe in happy endings. I’m love being in love and I am In Love with this story and the characters. I want a prince. (LOL)
This is the representation every black child deserves to have. I have throughly enjoyed this series of books. Every time I read one it leaves a smile on my face. The playfulness and humor wrapped into a love story Tends to make me believe in happy endings. I’m love being in love and I am In Love with this story and the characters. I want a prince. (LOL)
March 30, 2020
Royally Divine!
Two strong willed people, starting off as friends had a chance to get to know each other on a spiritual level and not on a physical level. They both needed assistance with an issue and were able to help each other out. There were bumps in the road and it took the two of them depending on each other to overcome.
Two strong willed people, starting off as friends had a chance to get to know each other on a spiritual level and not on a physical level. They both needed assistance with an issue and were able to help each other out. There were bumps in the road and it took the two of them depending on each other to overcome.
April 1, 2020
Lovers and friends
Sweet friends to lovers story. Wasim and Imani had an undeniable chemistry. Loved everything about this book from start to finish. As an African I’m always happy to come across an African H or h. I highly recommend this book.Sad we are at the end of the series but I can always reread the series or read ms Diamond’s other books 😊
Sweet friends to lovers story. Wasim and Imani had an undeniable chemistry. Loved everything about this book from start to finish. As an African I’m always happy to come across an African H or h. I highly recommend this book.Sad we are at the end of the series but I can always reread the series or read ms Diamond’s other books 😊
May 2, 2020
Queen of Barrakesch
I love friends to lovers, arranged marriage and couples fighting their attraction to each other. With Wasim and Imani I get all of that and more. Even though they tried to fight it I loved the attraction and chemistry between these two. Great story and I couldn't put it down. Loved all the books in this series. 🙂🙂
I love friends to lovers, arranged marriage and couples fighting their attraction to each other. With Wasim and Imani I get all of that and more. Even though they tried to fight it I loved the attraction and chemistry between these two. Great story and I couldn't put it down. Loved all the books in this series. 🙂🙂
May 26, 2020
Slow burn
Surprisingly the last book in the series was more of a slow burn. The pacing of Wasim and Imani's story was a slower pace than the prior two stories. I enjoyed it nonetheless, however I wish the ending had been more than a couple paragraphs. Hopefully we'll see these characters again.
Surprisingly the last book in the series was more of a slow burn. The pacing of Wasim and Imani's story was a slower pace than the prior two stories. I enjoyed it nonetheless, however I wish the ending had been more than a couple paragraphs. Hopefully we'll see these characters again.
March 28, 2020
Royally good....
I do so love reading about royal families and the quest to achieve relationship goals. Wasim and Imani did not disappoint. My only complaint is that I wish they had gotten together sooner. Great way to finish up the series.
I do so love reading about royal families and the quest to achieve relationship goals. Wasim and Imani did not disappoint. My only complaint is that I wish they had gotten together sooner. Great way to finish up the series.
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