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The Queen's Guard #1
Stolen to Wear His Crown
From unworldly scientist...
...to his fearless queen!
Mina has finally achieved her dream of becoming chief scientific advisor of Cyrano, when she's stolen from the interview room! She's taken directly to the palace chapel, where the terms of a secret betrothal mean she must marry the king--immediately.
Powerful King Zayn knows all too well monarchs can't afford dangerous distractions like love. Yet still, he's appalled to be wed to a complete stranger! Mina is altogether too sensitive, too scholarly, too unpolished to be queen. But that can't stop the desire that flares each time she looks his way...
From Harlequin Presents: Escape to exotic locations where passion knows no bounds.
The Queen's Guard
Book 1: Stolen to Wear His Crown
...to his fearless queen!
Mina has finally achieved her dream of becoming chief scientific advisor of Cyrano, when she's stolen from the interview room! She's taken directly to the palace chapel, where the terms of a secret betrothal mean she must marry the king--immediately.
Powerful King Zayn knows all too well monarchs can't afford dangerous distractions like love. Yet still, he's appalled to be wed to a complete stranger! Mina is altogether too sensitive, too scholarly, too unpolished to be queen. But that can't stop the desire that flares each time she looks his way...
From Harlequin Presents: Escape to exotic locations where passion knows no bounds.
The Queen's Guard
Book 1: Stolen to Wear His Crown
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 18, 2020
52 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 25, 2020
*Spoilers*
*Offensive Language*
Hold up.
So, Zayn, our hero, kidnaps the heroine (Mina) then forces her to marry him because of some decades-old asinine betrothal agreement that'd been engineered by their respective parents?
Lol. I mean, why not simply inform her of the agreement and treat her like a woman with some agency over her life instead of this nonsense? Equally bewildering is the fact that Mina had no friends, no family, no peers. Nada.
How does a 36 yo woman with a doctorate in biological sciences not have a life that predates a man? Why was she still a virgin and what the fuck is this idiotic misogynistic crap?
Okay. I need a time-out. Dnf @ 50%.
November 11, 2020
So much potential but unfortunately not enough.
I don't expect a believable plot, I know I'm reading an HP but I need more consistency, so 2,5 stars.
I don't expect a believable plot, I know I'm reading an HP but I need more consistency, so 2,5 stars.
January 25, 2021
New author for Harlequin Presents. In my opinion she has no idea how to write a Harlequin Presents! There was a lot of focus on politics and heroine's makeover and other irrelevant stuff. I needed more romance! All these new authors they hire for Harlequin Presents are so lame!
November 30, 2020
Fun, quick, and a bit melodramatic, Stolen to Wear His Crown follows Mina, an accomplished scientist who has finally achieved her dream of becoming the scientific advisor to the king. Only to be dragged off in the middle of her confirmation, and forced to marry the king she has never met because of a secret betrothal contract between their parents.
Mina has focused on her career to the exclusion of any relationships and King Zayne is convinced that falling in love would compromise commitment to his country. But of course, sparks fly... Again, this was a quick read but enjoyable. I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Mina has focused on her career to the exclusion of any relationships and King Zayne is convinced that falling in love would compromise commitment to his country. But of course, sparks fly... Again, this was a quick read but enjoyable. I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
November 14, 2020
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I know we're supposed to suspend disbelief when reading category romances but personally, I do need the story to be grounded in a reality that I can accept and understand. Is it too much to expect that writers create believable worlds and do research to ensure their story is supported by factual underpinning? Mina's surname is found almost exclusively in the Americas, specifically Mexico. and yet her ancestors go back generations on Cyrano.
Cyrano is meant to be a forward-looking, modern monarchy, yet the 36-year-old, experienced, statesmanlike King sends the equivalent of a SWAT team to drag Mina out of the chamber? what? they push her to her knees and bind her wrists? I mean- seriously?
Where on earth was Cyrano meant to be? we're told it's a Mediterranean kingdom. The suggestion that Mina's father has Moorish ancestors suggests a close link to the ottoman empire, so definitely a southern Mediterranean location - close to Morocco or Tunisia perhaps. King, Zayn has an Arabic name, but he is not Muslim because the marriage is conducted by an Archbishop. These things kept preoccupying my mind and throwing me out of the story. Also, considering Mills and Boon has a strong European market, I was surprised at the xenophobia displayed in the writing. The British Ambassador is a pretentious letch and the son of the Felden representative a sexually predatory man who doesn't know how to behave in diplomatic circles? (German-speaking,? Chancellor? - are we starting to see a pattern?)
Zayn was simply unbelievable. Truly, his behaviour in the first part of the book stretched my credulity to its absolute limits. He wasn't just a jerk, he was an abusive, bad-mannered bully of the worst kind.
Having been so critical, I must then add that the author has a nice touch and I really liked her writing. The dialogue was sparky and witty and intelligent. The developing relationship and character development were well done and very engaging. I enjoyed the latter two-thirds of the book much better than the first third and I thought the journey to their happy ending was beautifully done. The author also writes great sex scenes!
I think this is an author to keep an eye on and I look forward to her next book.
I know we're supposed to suspend disbelief when reading category romances but personally, I do need the story to be grounded in a reality that I can accept and understand. Is it too much to expect that writers create believable worlds and do research to ensure their story is supported by factual underpinning? Mina's surname is found almost exclusively in the Americas, specifically Mexico. and yet her ancestors go back generations on Cyrano.
Cyrano is meant to be a forward-looking, modern monarchy, yet the 36-year-old, experienced, statesmanlike King sends the equivalent of a SWAT team to drag Mina out of the chamber? what? they push her to her knees and bind her wrists? I mean- seriously?
Where on earth was Cyrano meant to be? we're told it's a Mediterranean kingdom. The suggestion that Mina's father has Moorish ancestors suggests a close link to the ottoman empire, so definitely a southern Mediterranean location - close to Morocco or Tunisia perhaps. King, Zayn has an Arabic name, but he is not Muslim because the marriage is conducted by an Archbishop. These things kept preoccupying my mind and throwing me out of the story. Also, considering Mills and Boon has a strong European market, I was surprised at the xenophobia displayed in the writing. The British Ambassador is a pretentious letch and the son of the Felden representative a sexually predatory man who doesn't know how to behave in diplomatic circles? (German-speaking,? Chancellor? - are we starting to see a pattern?)
Zayn was simply unbelievable. Truly, his behaviour in the first part of the book stretched my credulity to its absolute limits. He wasn't just a jerk, he was an abusive, bad-mannered bully of the worst kind.
Having been so critical, I must then add that the author has a nice touch and I really liked her writing. The dialogue was sparky and witty and intelligent. The developing relationship and character development were well done and very engaging. I enjoyed the latter two-thirds of the book much better than the first third and I thought the journey to their happy ending was beautifully done. The author also writes great sex scenes!
I think this is an author to keep an eye on and I look forward to her next book.
August 1, 2021
I have some complaints:
#1: the hero 100% does not deserve anything except for a kick in the pants; absolute garbage human
#2: respectfully, why is one of the most beautiful/intelligent/successful women in the entire country a friendless virgin at the age of 36?
#3: why bother making your heroine the nation's premier biologist if you're not even going to...do anything with that? she gives up a glittering career to be fashionista, charity-gala-attending Kate Middleton with a (more) disgusting husband. no.
#1: the hero 100% does not deserve anything except for a kick in the pants; absolute garbage human
#2: respectfully, why is one of the most beautiful/intelligent/successful women in the entire country a friendless virgin at the age of 36?
#3: why bother making your heroine the nation's premier biologist if you're not even going to...do anything with that? she gives up a glittering career to be fashionista, charity-gala-attending Kate Middleton with a (more) disgusting husband. no.
November 1, 2020
A solid start from a new author and a fellow Oregonian!
Mina is the stereotypical geeky academic. In focusing on her PhD and her goal of being a part of the King's counsel, she has neglected all other areas of her life. Zayn is a king who rose to his position because his father was assassinated years before. When Zayn decided to marry, he took a list of prospective brides for approval, only to find that he was already betrothed - a surprise to Zayn and a shock to Mina.
Mina is my favorite kind of heroine. She is intelligent, strong, and focused. She does not put up with fools. And yet, there is a streak of kindness and compassion at her core. Zayn is a closed off, stoic king who is a bit arrogant and stuck in some antiquated beliefs.
Mina is about to discover what she missed in life. Zayn is about to discover that all the things he thought about personal relationships were wrong.
I enjoyed watching the dance between the two.
My only complaint is that the author makes some transitions with emotions and thinking that are very abrupt. I was left wondering what that character was thinking and how could they go from one thing to another with no thought.
Mina is the stereotypical geeky academic. In focusing on her PhD and her goal of being a part of the King's counsel, she has neglected all other areas of her life. Zayn is a king who rose to his position because his father was assassinated years before. When Zayn decided to marry, he took a list of prospective brides for approval, only to find that he was already betrothed - a surprise to Zayn and a shock to Mina.
Mina is my favorite kind of heroine. She is intelligent, strong, and focused. She does not put up with fools. And yet, there is a streak of kindness and compassion at her core. Zayn is a closed off, stoic king who is a bit arrogant and stuck in some antiquated beliefs.
Mina is about to discover what she missed in life. Zayn is about to discover that all the things he thought about personal relationships were wrong.
I enjoyed watching the dance between the two.
My only complaint is that the author makes some transitions with emotions and thinking that are very abrupt. I was left wondering what that character was thinking and how could they go from one thing to another with no thought.
November 27, 2020
Mina is chief scientific advisor of Cyrano and I was interested in that part. Then, things go crazy and she is kidnapped by what I think is a kind of SWAT team (although I was shocked at the abruptness of the kidnapping and I thought that was good tension). Then, the King wants to marry her.
She seems strong but gives in. The book is atmospheric but not enough. I was wondering where Cyrano actually was, and the castle or surroundings were not that visual.
I found the original plot hard to believe and far-fetched. Some of the lovemaking scenes were good, but I found Mina went from focused and strong to gullible too quickly. I thought more of the story would be about
The king is just a bully and arrogant.
I was expecting to like this, but it wasn't for me. I was put off by all the exclamation marks in the synopsis, I felt they weren't needed. I don't know if they were supposed to add excitement to the synopsis, but they just did not for me.
Thanks to Marcella Bell and Harlequin for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 stars.
She seems strong but gives in. The book is atmospheric but not enough. I was wondering where Cyrano actually was, and the castle or surroundings were not that visual.
I found the original plot hard to believe and far-fetched. Some of the lovemaking scenes were good, but I found Mina went from focused and strong to gullible too quickly. I thought more of the story would be about
The king is just a bully and arrogant.
I was expecting to like this, but it wasn't for me. I was put off by all the exclamation marks in the synopsis, I felt they weren't needed. I don't know if they were supposed to add excitement to the synopsis, but they just did not for me.
Thanks to Marcella Bell and Harlequin for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 stars.
September 9, 2021
A modern day arranged marriage
On what was supposed to be the best day of Mina’s life quickly became the most confusing. She had the job she had worked hard for since she was 12, and then just as quickly she was fired and married, to King Zayn!
Both Mina and Zayn have a passion for their countries success, but hey find a burning passion for eachother as well.
I loved Mina’s adaptability, grace and fieriness as she is thrust into a whole new life.
On what was supposed to be the best day of Mina’s life quickly became the most confusing. She had the job she had worked hard for since she was 12, and then just as quickly she was fired and married, to King Zayn!
Both Mina and Zayn have a passion for their countries success, but hey find a burning passion for eachother as well.
I loved Mina’s adaptability, grace and fieriness as she is thrust into a whole new life.
January 25, 2021
Initial thought: Just made four stars by the skin of it’ teeth mainly due to the ending with epic gesture.
Major Plot spoilers ahead. Read at your own risk
This was a promising debut by Marcella Bell for the Harlequin Presents, though there were a few bumps along the way, however I think that she has the potential to be something great for this line in the future.
This story felt very different and had a unique vibe to other Presents that I have read in the past. This was both a good thing, yet there were somethings that I just didn’t care for or vibe with especially in the beginning. I appreciated that this line was looking for new modern voices that give the line a different flavor, however it could be a times too different, which wouldn’t be a good thing in my opinion especially for lovers of the old school Presents. I did think it should toe the modern line without going too far on the other end of the spectrum and just have that balance. I did feel that this stories at times this did toe the line a little too much in my opinion, but again that was mostly at the beginning.
I did like the fact that Mina was an older heroine. I liked she was a scientist. I loved that she moved up in the academy world, which was mainly a male dominated field. I loved that she fought hard to get where she was. I adored her determination. Her spunk. And even though she classified herself as a shy academic type, she was so more than that, which she had to learn as she grew more into herself. I loved her growth and strength throughout as she became the badass Queen that she meant to be. I loved seeing her become comfortable finally in her own skin under her terms. That was an awesome journey for her to do on with her.
Aside from the fact Mina was a scientist, the beginning of the story was a little rough for me in more ways then one. It took me quite a bit to get into and be behind it. I really thought that this one was just not gonna be for me because there were quite few things that just didn’t sit right with me.
Firstly, the way that Mina was kidnapped was very raw and very rough. It wasn’t pleasant experience as it was described with the SWAT team, the tackling of her until they were subduing her, then handcuffing her before hauling her off without a single explanation of what was happening. It was very traumatizing to read about because I didn’t know if this was the bad guys or if was meant to be the hero or what. Then when I found out it was the hero that left a sour taste in mouth. I have read kidnapping plots before with the hero being the one to do it, but I have never read it done this violent way that was practically brutality just didn’t sit well with me. It was too much. Too rough. That kind of shaped me feelings about the story and the hero as well.
Speaking of the hero and the second reason this was rough for me was the hero Zayn, I thought he was a big old d*ck as soon as he came on to the page. There was no compassion in him. He was cruel as anything despite the fact that he was the one that kidnapped Mina in the first place. He was just way beyond anything that I had ever read. Granted I have read a lot of alph*les in the past and usually I can get over their attitude and such because I know there’s light at the end of the tunnel with them, but Zayn was beyond alph*le it was incredible. I never thought I would see that day. I just didn’t care for him at all in the beginning because he was that bad for me.
Thirdly, I think it took way too long to get into the relationship between Zayn and Mina. It took them forever to even spend time together to build their relationship and create intimacy between them. Instead there was a lot of focus on politics and her makeover and other stuff that I just didn’t care for. I wanted to get into the meat of the romance. I needed that to happen sooner because all the other stuff that I didn’t care of was just glaring because it wasn’t getting toe the good stuff that I wanted. It just took awhile to get into the romance that I was craving even though I didn’t care for Zayn. I was hoping by having the romance that would have redeemed him a lot sooner than it did.
Fourthly, I didn’t care for the makeover scene either. I have read makeover storylines before they don’t bother me like they do other people, but this one bothered me. And not for the usual reason of that she needed a makeover in order for him to be attracted to her and him to fall in love with her. It was how the makeover was described and played out on the page. It felt very violating to Mina, and I felt violated while reading it as they stripped her down to nothing in order to give her the image of a Queen. It was very upsetting to read while she was going through this process from head to toe. I could feel her vulnerability while going through this. It just was really hard to swallow as she was surrounding by all these people as they dressed her for the part. It just really got to me in a way that I haven’t ever felt before during a makeover scene. It was just another thing that didn’t sit well with me.
The story finally did get better about half way through once the ball happened. This was Mina’s coming out ball as queen. It was a masquerade ball that added a little more opulence to the setting. It gave off a romantic feel as King and Queen were presented to Cyrano. It just gave a different vibe from the beginning. The vibe that I had been looking for all long. This was really where the romance between Mina and Zayn truly began. Also, Zayn’s attitude softened and changed as he felt more of the romantic pull towards Mina. He started acting in a romantic way with the dance and the kiss and whatnot. It finally showed he did have feelings and a softer side after all. Then my attitude changed towards him as well.
It took off from there as there were more intimacy building moments. They had plenty of time to get to know each other and bond as they hiked through the woods and stayed at this cabin alone isolated on his private island. That was really the first time that I could see the connection between them. They got closer and closer with both bodies and their minds. It was romantic, yet emotional too as they revealed the hurts within themself that they showed no one else. It was here that feelings between them began to arise and develop into something special.
There was a bit of conflict after they left the island, but that made it very interesting. There was tension there. There was that conflict that upped the stakes between them as a couple. It created a bit of angst that was missing throughout. Zayn was a bonehead for sure, but once he got his head out of his butt he did make this pretty epic grand gesture that put his heart on the line for so many others to see. Though it may not have been totally believable with his sudden love for her, it still was sweet when he did make that grand gesture. It almost made up for all the crap he did earlier to poor Mina. The end gesture really was the reason that this got pushed to a four stars instead of a three point five stars. It was that good of a moment.
Also I did like when Zayn found out how Mina and Zayn’s betrothal came about. It was very unexpected yet very interesting. It just showed why Mina and Zayn got connected, and how it was possible that they could have not wound up together if they followed that loop hole, but because they didn’t that made he feel that they truly were meant to be together.
Overall, there were things that I liked and there were things I didn’t like. What was good was good, but what wasn’t just really were things that just put me off and turned me off. It was rough to get through at times because it bothered me so much, but once it got to the light at the end of the tunnel, then became a very solid read with me seeing much potential for Marcella Bell in the future in the Presents line. It just had to get there first. The romantic stuff was good with the ball, the hike and the cabin. I did like that they bonded and started to understand each other. Was the love between the believable? That was debatable but I did think they were getting there in the grand scheme of things. I enjoyed the grand gesture at the end, which put this a half star better than I thought I was going to give it. So, it wasn’t all bad. There were just things I didn’t care for, but I will be reading another Marcella Bell in the future especially if I think who think is going to get book next for her then I am really looking for to it.
Major Plot spoilers ahead. Read at your own risk
This was a promising debut by Marcella Bell for the Harlequin Presents, though there were a few bumps along the way, however I think that she has the potential to be something great for this line in the future.
This story felt very different and had a unique vibe to other Presents that I have read in the past. This was both a good thing, yet there were somethings that I just didn’t care for or vibe with especially in the beginning. I appreciated that this line was looking for new modern voices that give the line a different flavor, however it could be a times too different, which wouldn’t be a good thing in my opinion especially for lovers of the old school Presents. I did think it should toe the modern line without going too far on the other end of the spectrum and just have that balance. I did feel that this stories at times this did toe the line a little too much in my opinion, but again that was mostly at the beginning.
I did like the fact that Mina was an older heroine. I liked she was a scientist. I loved that she moved up in the academy world, which was mainly a male dominated field. I loved that she fought hard to get where she was. I adored her determination. Her spunk. And even though she classified herself as a shy academic type, she was so more than that, which she had to learn as she grew more into herself. I loved her growth and strength throughout as she became the badass Queen that she meant to be. I loved seeing her become comfortable finally in her own skin under her terms. That was an awesome journey for her to do on with her.
Aside from the fact Mina was a scientist, the beginning of the story was a little rough for me in more ways then one. It took me quite a bit to get into and be behind it. I really thought that this one was just not gonna be for me because there were quite few things that just didn’t sit right with me.
Firstly, the way that Mina was kidnapped was very raw and very rough. It wasn’t pleasant experience as it was described with the SWAT team, the tackling of her until they were subduing her, then handcuffing her before hauling her off without a single explanation of what was happening. It was very traumatizing to read about because I didn’t know if this was the bad guys or if was meant to be the hero or what. Then when I found out it was the hero that left a sour taste in mouth. I have read kidnapping plots before with the hero being the one to do it, but I have never read it done this violent way that was practically brutality just didn’t sit well with me. It was too much. Too rough. That kind of shaped me feelings about the story and the hero as well.
Speaking of the hero and the second reason this was rough for me was the hero Zayn, I thought he was a big old d*ck as soon as he came on to the page. There was no compassion in him. He was cruel as anything despite the fact that he was the one that kidnapped Mina in the first place. He was just way beyond anything that I had ever read. Granted I have read a lot of alph*les in the past and usually I can get over their attitude and such because I know there’s light at the end of the tunnel with them, but Zayn was beyond alph*le it was incredible. I never thought I would see that day. I just didn’t care for him at all in the beginning because he was that bad for me.
Thirdly, I think it took way too long to get into the relationship between Zayn and Mina. It took them forever to even spend time together to build their relationship and create intimacy between them. Instead there was a lot of focus on politics and her makeover and other stuff that I just didn’t care for. I wanted to get into the meat of the romance. I needed that to happen sooner because all the other stuff that I didn’t care of was just glaring because it wasn’t getting toe the good stuff that I wanted. It just took awhile to get into the romance that I was craving even though I didn’t care for Zayn. I was hoping by having the romance that would have redeemed him a lot sooner than it did.
Fourthly, I didn’t care for the makeover scene either. I have read makeover storylines before they don’t bother me like they do other people, but this one bothered me. And not for the usual reason of that she needed a makeover in order for him to be attracted to her and him to fall in love with her. It was how the makeover was described and played out on the page. It felt very violating to Mina, and I felt violated while reading it as they stripped her down to nothing in order to give her the image of a Queen. It was very upsetting to read while she was going through this process from head to toe. I could feel her vulnerability while going through this. It just was really hard to swallow as she was surrounding by all these people as they dressed her for the part. It just really got to me in a way that I haven’t ever felt before during a makeover scene. It was just another thing that didn’t sit well with me.
The story finally did get better about half way through once the ball happened. This was Mina’s coming out ball as queen. It was a masquerade ball that added a little more opulence to the setting. It gave off a romantic feel as King and Queen were presented to Cyrano. It just gave a different vibe from the beginning. The vibe that I had been looking for all long. This was really where the romance between Mina and Zayn truly began. Also, Zayn’s attitude softened and changed as he felt more of the romantic pull towards Mina. He started acting in a romantic way with the dance and the kiss and whatnot. It finally showed he did have feelings and a softer side after all. Then my attitude changed towards him as well.
It took off from there as there were more intimacy building moments. They had plenty of time to get to know each other and bond as they hiked through the woods and stayed at this cabin alone isolated on his private island. That was really the first time that I could see the connection between them. They got closer and closer with both bodies and their minds. It was romantic, yet emotional too as they revealed the hurts within themself that they showed no one else. It was here that feelings between them began to arise and develop into something special.
There was a bit of conflict after they left the island, but that made it very interesting. There was tension there. There was that conflict that upped the stakes between them as a couple. It created a bit of angst that was missing throughout. Zayn was a bonehead for sure, but once he got his head out of his butt he did make this pretty epic grand gesture that put his heart on the line for so many others to see. Though it may not have been totally believable with his sudden love for her, it still was sweet when he did make that grand gesture. It almost made up for all the crap he did earlier to poor Mina. The end gesture really was the reason that this got pushed to a four stars instead of a three point five stars. It was that good of a moment.
Also I did like when Zayn found out how Mina and Zayn’s betrothal came about. It was very unexpected yet very interesting. It just showed why Mina and Zayn got connected, and how it was possible that they could have not wound up together if they followed that loop hole, but because they didn’t that made he feel that they truly were meant to be together.
Overall, there were things that I liked and there were things I didn’t like. What was good was good, but what wasn’t just really were things that just put me off and turned me off. It was rough to get through at times because it bothered me so much, but once it got to the light at the end of the tunnel, then became a very solid read with me seeing much potential for Marcella Bell in the future in the Presents line. It just had to get there first. The romantic stuff was good with the ball, the hike and the cabin. I did like that they bonded and started to understand each other. Was the love between the believable? That was debatable but I did think they were getting there in the grand scheme of things. I enjoyed the grand gesture at the end, which put this a half star better than I thought I was going to give it. So, it wasn’t all bad. There were just things I didn’t care for, but I will be reading another Marcella Bell in the future especially if I think who think is going to get book next for her then I am really looking for to it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2020
I am an unabashed HP reader. Grew up on them, loved them as a treat in undergrad and graduate school. This little gem was just what I needed. A biologist heroine in a forced relationship and you know what happens next. These characters felt real, modern. Loved the cultural nods including language. I bought it for the cover but will definitely re-read.
March 11, 2023
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I know we're supposed to suspend disbelief when reading category romances but personally, I do need the story to be grounded in a reality that I can accept and understand. Is it too much to expect that writers create believable worlds and do research to ensure their story is supported by factual underpinning? Mina's surname is found almost exclusively in the Americas, specifically Mexico. and yet her ancestors go back generations on Cyrano.
Cyrano is meant to be a forward-looking, modern monarchy, yet the 36 year old, experienced, statesmanlike King sends the equivalent of a SWAT team to drag Mina out of the chamber? what? they push her to her knees and bind her wrists? I mean- seriously?
Where on earth was Cyrano meant to be? we're told it's a Mediterranean kingdom. The suggestion that Mina's father has Moorish ancestors suggests a close link to the ottoman empire, so definitely a southern Mediterranean location - close to Morocco or Tunisia perhaps. King Zayn has an Arabic name, but he is not Muslim because the marriage is conducted by an Archbishop. These things kept preoccupying my mind and throwing me out of the story. Also, considering Mills and Boon has a strong European market, I was surprised at the xenophobia displayed in the writing. The British Ambassador is a pretentious letch and the son of the Felden representative a sexually predatory man who doesn't know how to behave in diplomatic circles? . (German-speaking,? Chancellor? - are we starting to see a pattern?)
Zayn was simply unbelievable. Truly, his behaviour in the first part of the book stretched my credulity to its absolute limits. He wasn't just a jerk, he was an abusive, bad-mannered bully of the worst kind.
Having been so critical, I must then add that the author has a nice touch and I really liked her writing. The dialogue was sparky and witty and intelligent. The developing relationship and character development were well done and very engaging. I enjoyed the latter two-thirds of the book much better than the first third and I thought the journey to their happy ending was beautifully done. The author also writes great sex scenes!
I think this is an author to keep an eye on and I look forward to her next book
I know we're supposed to suspend disbelief when reading category romances but personally, I do need the story to be grounded in a reality that I can accept and understand. Is it too much to expect that writers create believable worlds and do research to ensure their story is supported by factual underpinning? Mina's surname is found almost exclusively in the Americas, specifically Mexico. and yet her ancestors go back generations on Cyrano.
Cyrano is meant to be a forward-looking, modern monarchy, yet the 36 year old, experienced, statesmanlike King sends the equivalent of a SWAT team to drag Mina out of the chamber? what? they push her to her knees and bind her wrists? I mean- seriously?
Where on earth was Cyrano meant to be? we're told it's a Mediterranean kingdom. The suggestion that Mina's father has Moorish ancestors suggests a close link to the ottoman empire, so definitely a southern Mediterranean location - close to Morocco or Tunisia perhaps. King Zayn has an Arabic name, but he is not Muslim because the marriage is conducted by an Archbishop. These things kept preoccupying my mind and throwing me out of the story. Also, considering Mills and Boon has a strong European market, I was surprised at the xenophobia displayed in the writing. The British Ambassador is a pretentious letch and the son of the Felden representative a sexually predatory man who doesn't know how to behave in diplomatic circles? . (German-speaking,? Chancellor? - are we starting to see a pattern?)
Zayn was simply unbelievable. Truly, his behaviour in the first part of the book stretched my credulity to its absolute limits. He wasn't just a jerk, he was an abusive, bad-mannered bully of the worst kind.
Having been so critical, I must then add that the author has a nice touch and I really liked her writing. The dialogue was sparky and witty and intelligent. The developing relationship and character development were well done and very engaging. I enjoyed the latter two-thirds of the book much better than the first third and I thought the journey to their happy ending was beautifully done. The author also writes great sex scenes!
I think this is an author to keep an eye on and I look forward to her next book
January 1, 2021
I picked up Stolen to Wear His Crown because I'm here for debut authors of color, and the premise intrigued me. Is it possible to do a "hero steals his bride" storyline while still respecting the heroine's agency?
In short, yes. I was delighted to see how Bell adds depth to the premise - there's more going on than it seems. The twists and turns of these subversions brought on giggles and made me invested in the story. Inclusive language put me at ease, and I'm excited to see Mina's guards (both women) are slated to get their own HEAs in future books.
While the start was great it feels more like a debut as things go on. The sex scenes are boring, and there's no discussion of protection. While there's a decent reason why, I would have at least liked a mention. On top of that the crux of the conflict is completely out of left field and I don't believe the reasoning. It was a step too far for me.
That being said I'm looking forward to watching Bell grow as a writer, as well as the next book in this series.
Thanks to Harlequin for providing a review copy.
In short, yes. I was delighted to see how Bell adds depth to the premise - there's more going on than it seems. The twists and turns of these subversions brought on giggles and made me invested in the story. Inclusive language put me at ease, and I'm excited to see Mina's guards (both women) are slated to get their own HEAs in future books.
While the start was great it feels more like a debut as things go on. The sex scenes are boring, and there's no discussion of protection. While there's a decent reason why, I would have at least liked a mention. On top of that the crux of the conflict is completely out of left field and I don't believe the reasoning. It was a step too far for me.
That being said I'm looking forward to watching Bell grow as a writer, as well as the next book in this series.
Thanks to Harlequin for providing a review copy.
November 12, 2020
Zayn is your typical arrogant king while Mina is your typical serious scientist. I just loved how different these two characters are but the author did a good job on how these differences later on paved the way for them to fall in love. I finished this in three hours, I really loved it!😍
December 8, 2020
Stolen to Wear His Crown was a fun, quick read. It was a nice something a little different than the norm. I enjoyed it.
I voluntarily read an early copy.
I voluntarily read an early copy.
October 11, 2025
As the mother of a female scientist, I didn’t like how this panders to the stereotype and how someone’s academic ability is defined by their appearance.
January 25, 2021
Really, 2.5. Ok, I get that they're trying to show more of POC but I feel this one and The Prince's Stolen Virgin feels about 90% the same. Young gifted POC, doesn't know about the secret engagement that their father set up, the hero is a king, doesn't like her because he's being forced into marriage, and the hero has father issues. At one point I had to go back and double-check if I hadn't already read this book because they're so similar. This just feels like a missed chance for HP. I have read better books in their Romance and Desire series, there's growth in the characters. This feels like a money grab to show "we do POC stories." One good thing is that it wasn't another story that the heroine has pale skin, blond, and blue eyes. Let's mix the races as we do with the ethnicities.
December 28, 2020
“Stolen to Wear His Crown” is Marcella Bell’s debut with Harlequin Presents.
The opening scenes of this book are dark as we are introduced to Mina and Zayn.
Mina is an academic, naïve in human nature. Zayn is cold and overbearing.
The middle is lighter as both Mina and Zayn begin to change, getting to each other and themselves.
By the end, Mina remembers her strength and Zayn realizes love makes one stronger instead of weaker.
While there were a few points of the story I wasn’t fond of (the abrupt shifting of tone from the beginning to the middle – as if something was missing or removed for editing), Ms. Bell’s writing captures the essence of a Presents beautifully.
The opening scenes of this book are dark as we are introduced to Mina and Zayn.
Mina is an academic, naïve in human nature. Zayn is cold and overbearing.
The middle is lighter as both Mina and Zayn begin to change, getting to each other and themselves.
By the end, Mina remembers her strength and Zayn realizes love makes one stronger instead of weaker.
While there were a few points of the story I wasn’t fond of (the abrupt shifting of tone from the beginning to the middle – as if something was missing or removed for editing), Ms. Bell’s writing captures the essence of a Presents beautifully.
December 28, 2020
A fictional kingdom, an unusual heroine, and a determined king make this an interesting romance. The world created is pure fantasy but with some realistic elements. Mina is an intelligent but unworldly woman, fixated on her career and just about to achieve her objective. Zayn knows his duty and will never let his personal feelings get in the way of it.
There are elements in this story that defy belief, but if you accept them and Zayn's often autocratic behaviour, this is a good romance with strong characters full of conflict, glamour and the chance of love.
I received a copy of this book from Mills and Boon via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
There are elements in this story that defy belief, but if you accept them and Zayn's often autocratic behaviour, this is a good romance with strong characters full of conflict, glamour and the chance of love.
I received a copy of this book from Mills and Boon via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
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November 15, 2020Categories
Contemporary Romance, Romance Collections & Anthologies
Miniseries
The Queen's Guard (Book #1)
Contemporary Romance, Romance Collections & Anthologies
Miniseries
The Queen's Guard (Book #1)
Read
November 15, 2020Categories
Contemporary Romance, Romance Collections & Anthologies
Miniseries
The Queen's Guard (Book #1)
Contemporary Romance, Romance Collections & Anthologies
Miniseries
The Queen's Guard (Book #1)
November 26, 2020
Love it
December 11, 2020
The title pretty much says it all when it comes to the trope of this one, which can be a bit of a hit or miss for me. Stolen to Wear His Crown lands somewhere in the middle, which is probably more me than the story. While I certainly would've preferred a better way for Mina to be stolen (literally, she's snatched right up), it does work to get things moving and propel the story along. The romance is... well, it's romance, and the couple does have chemistry. But what I enjoyed more was the way these opposites figured things out and learned their roles as royalty. The book is well written and overall, a pretty good start for the series.
December 6, 2020
Meh
I was looking forward to this one but ultimately disappointed.
Now, I'm not usually a fan of HP royal stories. I find that they waste so much time on tedious royal things and I usually don't care. I wanted to give this book a chance and it became a chore to finish.
Besides the royal aspect boring me to death, there wasn't nearly as much conflict as I expected. The Black moment is kind of stranger to me. For people who never really wanted to marry each other, there's not nearly as much angst and resistance that naturally would arise.
Marcella Bell is actually a great writer despite the books shortcomings. I kept seeing potential in this one, but I was left with a rather mundane read.
I was looking forward to this one but ultimately disappointed.
Now, I'm not usually a fan of HP royal stories. I find that they waste so much time on tedious royal things and I usually don't care. I wanted to give this book a chance and it became a chore to finish.
Besides the royal aspect boring me to death, there wasn't nearly as much conflict as I expected. The Black moment is kind of stranger to me. For people who never really wanted to marry each other, there's not nearly as much angst and resistance that naturally would arise.
Marcella Bell is actually a great writer despite the books shortcomings. I kept seeing potential in this one, but I was left with a rather mundane read.
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February 15, 2022Heat Factor: 🍆🍆 ← that’s two sexy rumpuses
Character Chemistry: It gets better
Plot: She gets forcibly married to the king and then makes the best of it. It’s good to be queen!
Overall: The opening is extremely YIKES but the second half is excellent
Stolen to Wear His Crown is part of the Harlequin Presents line, which meant that I knew to expect certain things. A tight focus on the romantic relationship. A plot that requires a certain suspension of disbelief. And an extremely innocent, emotionally open heroine who brings a strong, powerful, rich, emotionally constipated man to his knees with the strength of her inner (and outer) beauty.
We have all of that. And honestly, the relationship between Mina and Zayn is pretty compelling, especially once they start spending some quality time together. They bring out the best in each other, as Zayn pushes Mina to be more confident and Mina provides space for Zayn to be just a man. Bell writes smooth dialogue and sex scenes with just a hint of spice to keep things interesting and is great at writing clothes, all of which help.
But the opening! Here’s the set up. Mina has worked her entire life to distinguish herself in her field so that she will earn a place as a science advisor on the royal council. She has put her work before everything else in her life. She hides her hot body, because she wants to be taken seriously as an academic. She has never gone on a date, because she spent every free moment working. And all her sacrifice has paid off! She is being interviewed by Parliament in the final step in the vetting process.
Right after the vote goes through approving her, however, a SWAT team appears, tackles her, handcuffs her, and drags her through the palace to a chapel where the King awaits. And then they get married in the weirdest non-consensual (Christian-ish?) ceremony I have ever read. The whole thing was really upsetting to read, and I was a bit annoyed that Mina was so...accepting of the whole thing. Yes, she protests - but she protests the marriage, not the fact that she was utterly humiliated by a bunch of thugs in front of Parliament on the orders of her future husband.
I almost stopped reading. I’m glad I didn’t, but I could also see this sequence being a major deal-breaker for many readers.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
This review is also available at The Smut Report.
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
Character Chemistry: It gets better
Plot: She gets forcibly married to the king and then makes the best of it. It’s good to be queen!
Overall: The opening is extremely YIKES but the second half is excellent
Stolen to Wear His Crown is part of the Harlequin Presents line, which meant that I knew to expect certain things. A tight focus on the romantic relationship. A plot that requires a certain suspension of disbelief. And an extremely innocent, emotionally open heroine who brings a strong, powerful, rich, emotionally constipated man to his knees with the strength of her inner (and outer) beauty.
We have all of that. And honestly, the relationship between Mina and Zayn is pretty compelling, especially once they start spending some quality time together. They bring out the best in each other, as Zayn pushes Mina to be more confident and Mina provides space for Zayn to be just a man. Bell writes smooth dialogue and sex scenes with just a hint of spice to keep things interesting and is great at writing clothes, all of which help.
But the opening! Here’s the set up. Mina has worked her entire life to distinguish herself in her field so that she will earn a place as a science advisor on the royal council. She has put her work before everything else in her life. She hides her hot body, because she wants to be taken seriously as an academic. She has never gone on a date, because she spent every free moment working. And all her sacrifice has paid off! She is being interviewed by Parliament in the final step in the vetting process.
Right after the vote goes through approving her, however, a SWAT team appears, tackles her, handcuffs her, and drags her through the palace to a chapel where the King awaits. And then they get married in the weirdest non-consensual (Christian-ish?) ceremony I have ever read. The whole thing was really upsetting to read, and I was a bit annoyed that Mina was so...accepting of the whole thing. Yes, she protests - but she protests the marriage, not the fact that she was utterly humiliated by a bunch of thugs in front of Parliament on the orders of her future husband.
I almost stopped reading. I’m glad I didn’t, but I could also see this sequence being a major deal-breaker for many readers.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
This review is also available at The Smut Report.
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
December 9, 2020
Stolen to Wear His Crown was a weird rollercoaster of a read. It went from zero to one hundred within the first ten percent of the book. From that ten percent, the rest was a bit more of a slow burn read.
Mina, a geeky academic scientist, has worked her life to focus on her PHD and be appointed as one of the King’s advisors. Once appointed, Mina is kidnapped in a very unsettling way, brought to the king who she is now forced to marry. A deal made by her father so many years ago, Mina is now faced with an arrogant king and an unpredictable future. The storyline was very predictable, which was okay, especially if you want a quick read. If the storyline didn’t feel so far-fetched, I would have be more engrossed and invested.
What I enjoyed was the difference of personalities between the two main characters. They were both very opposite of each other. Did it add on to that romantic tension the author wanted to portray, yes! Was it entertaining at times? Yeah, for the most part it was good to see the two learn to grown on each other given their circumstances. Speaking of circumstances, Mina really tried to work with her new situation, and I have to do credit where credit is due. It’s not everyday you become a wife and a queen all in one shot, especially to a very proud and arrogant king. I also saw strength and confidence in Mina at times that I appreciated throughout the book.
Overall, it was okay. I was taken aback by the kidnapping scene because it felt unnecessary forceful and was trying to picture a world where a 36-year old virgin could be experienced in both love and sex if she was so into the books an describe as a stereotypical school nerd. However, if you want a quick read and want to root on a heroine who surprises oyu when she stands her ground, this is a book for you.
Mina, a geeky academic scientist, has worked her life to focus on her PHD and be appointed as one of the King’s advisors. Once appointed, Mina is kidnapped in a very unsettling way, brought to the king who she is now forced to marry. A deal made by her father so many years ago, Mina is now faced with an arrogant king and an unpredictable future. The storyline was very predictable, which was okay, especially if you want a quick read. If the storyline didn’t feel so far-fetched, I would have be more engrossed and invested.
What I enjoyed was the difference of personalities between the two main characters. They were both very opposite of each other. Did it add on to that romantic tension the author wanted to portray, yes! Was it entertaining at times? Yeah, for the most part it was good to see the two learn to grown on each other given their circumstances. Speaking of circumstances, Mina really tried to work with her new situation, and I have to do credit where credit is due. It’s not everyday you become a wife and a queen all in one shot, especially to a very proud and arrogant king. I also saw strength and confidence in Mina at times that I appreciated throughout the book.
Overall, it was okay. I was taken aback by the kidnapping scene because it felt unnecessary forceful and was trying to picture a world where a 36-year old virgin could be experienced in both love and sex if she was so into the books an describe as a stereotypical school nerd. However, if you want a quick read and want to root on a heroine who surprises oyu when she stands her ground, this is a book for you.
December 7, 2020
I don't read a lot of Harlequin romances. Every once in a while, a plot is interesting enough to pull me in. This antiquated idea in a modern world caught my attention.
Mina is arrested on the day she has achieved her greatest dream: Chief Scientific advisor of Cyrano. She’s taken to as chapel in the royal palace where she is forced into a secret marriage with the king. King Zyan knows nothing but they are betrothed and with his father dead. He will have to unravel this mystery himself. Can the two find the answers, fall in love and take care of their beloved country>
This mystery I solved almost last minute at the very climax of the book. And unlike the activities the book describes, it ends abruptly with no time for cuddle. Time was mainly spent on the I hate you but want to have sex with you story line.
At several points I had to stop and check the author's name to see if they weren't a man. I couldn't find a picture but I went with the assumption the name matched the gender identity. The book is written in ways that it seemed weird when the sex and such was experience by the woman. It was also about male domination. This might just go with the idea of the character being a king. To be subjugated is not my fantasy but there are probably others that do enjoy it.
Stolen to Wear His Crown is an easy and short read. Good for those who love romance but are super busy. This is a great way to escape reality in a busy holiday season for anyone who loves this kind of romance novel.
Though I didn't enjoy this book much, I think Harlequin readers will love it!
Mina is arrested on the day she has achieved her greatest dream: Chief Scientific advisor of Cyrano. She’s taken to as chapel in the royal palace where she is forced into a secret marriage with the king. King Zyan knows nothing but they are betrothed and with his father dead. He will have to unravel this mystery himself. Can the two find the answers, fall in love and take care of their beloved country>
This mystery I solved almost last minute at the very climax of the book. And unlike the activities the book describes, it ends abruptly with no time for cuddle. Time was mainly spent on the I hate you but want to have sex with you story line.
At several points I had to stop and check the author's name to see if they weren't a man. I couldn't find a picture but I went with the assumption the name matched the gender identity. The book is written in ways that it seemed weird when the sex and such was experience by the woman. It was also about male domination. This might just go with the idea of the character being a king. To be subjugated is not my fantasy but there are probably others that do enjoy it.
Stolen to Wear His Crown is an easy and short read. Good for those who love romance but are super busy. This is a great way to escape reality in a busy holiday season for anyone who loves this kind of romance novel.
Though I didn't enjoy this book much, I think Harlequin readers will love it!
December 31, 2020
Stolen to wear his Crown by Marcella Bell is a December 2020 debut Harlequin release and I loved it!
If I didn’t know Stolen to Wear His Crown was a debut book, I would have thought it was written by a seasoned professional. The drama, humor, adventure, plot and entertainment value were top quality and I enjoyed every word!
The dramatic entry of Mina into King Zayn’s world was gripping and held my attention. The descriptiveness of turning Mina into a Queen at her ball was stunning. The adventures that were packed into a little book was brilliant. The smattering of humor was most enjoyable. The introduction of characters and the reflection of others was great and above all the Mina and Zayn’s road to love was a joy to read. The haircut scene, so relatable! I could literally feel every snip! I also really liked she was an intellectual with plans rather than a person who just dreams of being someone amazing. I also liked how she was 30+. As I’m getting older it’s harder to relate to the 20-year-old heroines.
I really enjoyed this book because it was so descriptive, had so much packed into it and I loved the approach of both Mina and Zayn. If there was anything, I would change I’m not sure I’d make the guards arresting Mina as rough as they were... she is the future Queen after all. I did miss an epilogue.
Highly recommended, this book has everything one could possibly wish for in it and I am very much looking forward to the next two installments of The Queen’s Guard.
If I didn’t know Stolen to Wear His Crown was a debut book, I would have thought it was written by a seasoned professional. The drama, humor, adventure, plot and entertainment value were top quality and I enjoyed every word!
The dramatic entry of Mina into King Zayn’s world was gripping and held my attention. The descriptiveness of turning Mina into a Queen at her ball was stunning. The adventures that were packed into a little book was brilliant. The smattering of humor was most enjoyable. The introduction of characters and the reflection of others was great and above all the Mina and Zayn’s road to love was a joy to read. The haircut scene, so relatable! I could literally feel every snip! I also really liked she was an intellectual with plans rather than a person who just dreams of being someone amazing. I also liked how she was 30+. As I’m getting older it’s harder to relate to the 20-year-old heroines.
I really enjoyed this book because it was so descriptive, had so much packed into it and I loved the approach of both Mina and Zayn. If there was anything, I would change I’m not sure I’d make the guards arresting Mina as rough as they were... she is the future Queen after all. I did miss an epilogue.
Highly recommended, this book has everything one could possibly wish for in it and I am very much looking forward to the next two installments of The Queen’s Guard.
January 9, 2021
Both Mina, a scientific advisor and King Zayn are thrust into an incomforable situation. They are about to be wed. Mina is about to become Zayn's king. Mina certainly had not choice in the matter, because one moment she achieved her dreams, and the next moment she is all but kidnapped, betrothed and now wed. Zayn knew he must marry for the sake of his kingdom, so he is prepared to accept Mina. However, one thing Zayn will not permit is love.
While Mina sought to be a part of what was going on with Zayn and his kingdom, never did she imagine to become his wife. Instead, her accomplishments and dreams are pushed aside and now she must get to know her new husband. What we see is a battle of wills of sorts, as both Mina and Zayn learn each other, and along the way, we see what kind of people they are.
Mina was not my favorite of protagonists in this type of romance. She was brilliant, not doubt, but unexperienced in a lot of ways so it was kind of odd to see her chosen as queen. Zayn wasn't all that great either, when it came to some of his actions. But, this is a fictional story of a fictional country so both Zayn and Mina did work well together as the story developed, and their connection was indeed palpable. I did enjoy watching the two of them find their way to a forever happiness,
Many thanks to Harlequin Presents and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
While Mina sought to be a part of what was going on with Zayn and his kingdom, never did she imagine to become his wife. Instead, her accomplishments and dreams are pushed aside and now she must get to know her new husband. What we see is a battle of wills of sorts, as both Mina and Zayn learn each other, and along the way, we see what kind of people they are.
Mina was not my favorite of protagonists in this type of romance. She was brilliant, not doubt, but unexperienced in a lot of ways so it was kind of odd to see her chosen as queen. Zayn wasn't all that great either, when it came to some of his actions. But, this is a fictional story of a fictional country so both Zayn and Mina did work well together as the story developed, and their connection was indeed palpable. I did enjoy watching the two of them find their way to a forever happiness,
Many thanks to Harlequin Presents and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
November 29, 2020
Mina has been studying and preparing her whole life to become a member of the Royal Council. Finally she is invited to attend a reviewed for her chance at the role. Moments after finding out that she was successful a SWAT team arrives and she is taken away
Kidnapped and taken to another part of the Palace. Meeting the king for the first time along with the archbishop ready for them to be married.
Zayn has had a turbulent few years, with his father being assassinatrd, him becoming king, discovering the plot behind hid fathers death involving his uncle and the finding out that his father has betrothed him to Mina before they were even born. Taking three months to track her down when he finds out that she's in the Palace and acts immediately.
Although the arranged marriage was something that they did not know about they attempt to navigate the demands of royal and married life. Mina adjusting from academic life to one filled with organising balls, fashion and events. As they soend time together they discover a spark between them. However, Zayn is reluctant to put love before his role as king. Putting his kingdom and his people before his own happiness and marriage.
Will this simply be a marriage of convenience? Or can they find a way to make it a partnership?
Kidnapped and taken to another part of the Palace. Meeting the king for the first time along with the archbishop ready for them to be married.
Zayn has had a turbulent few years, with his father being assassinatrd, him becoming king, discovering the plot behind hid fathers death involving his uncle and the finding out that his father has betrothed him to Mina before they were even born. Taking three months to track her down when he finds out that she's in the Palace and acts immediately.
Although the arranged marriage was something that they did not know about they attempt to navigate the demands of royal and married life. Mina adjusting from academic life to one filled with organising balls, fashion and events. As they soend time together they discover a spark between them. However, Zayn is reluctant to put love before his role as king. Putting his kingdom and his people before his own happiness and marriage.
Will this simply be a marriage of convenience? Or can they find a way to make it a partnership?
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