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Close Quarters #2

Suddenly Royal

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LEX:

I’ve started my new life as a royal liar.

I’m a prince waiting tables, and I love my secret life because it doesn’t include royal bank accounts. But I’m not just doing this to escape from palace life; ever since Graham interviewed me, I’ve wanted to be by his side. Even though I’ve never been with a man, I know he’s the one I want.

But I knew my dream life couldn’t last forever—I just didn’t think my old life would catch up to me so soon. I fled the royal family to find happiness, and while Graham is everything I want, he’s everything I can’t have. Princes aren’t supposed to fall in love with their coworkers. If the royal family finds me, they’ll do everything in their power to keep us apart.

I might have to choose—my new life or my crown.

GRAHAM:

I wanted a waiter, not an international scandal.

Lex is royalty—the real kind. I didn’t know that when I hired him, and I definitely didn’t know it when I fell for him. He enchanted me the moment he walked in, and I never expected him to make the first move. Then again, that was just the first of Lex’s surprises.

But palace life isn’t all he’s turning his back on. Prince Charming is straight, or so I thought before we spent the night together. Unfortunately, the royal family thinks he’s straight too, and soon I’m facing much bigger problems than my restaurant. If his family drags him back, a commoner like me can’t chase after a royal.

It’ll be me or his birthright, and I don’t know what he’ll choose.

This is the second book in the Close Quarters series. It can be enjoyed as a standalone with no cliffhanger.

216 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 13, 2020

214 people are currently reading
137 people want to read

About the author

Jason Collins

107 books529 followers

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5 stars
116 (39%)
4 stars
98 (33%)
3 stars
61 (20%)
2 stars
12 (4%)
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9 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Len Evans Jr.
1,503 reviews223 followers
June 16, 2020
AWESOME ROYAL LOVE STORY

WOW! This Cinderella-esque love story packed a punch full of feels, plenty of heat and filled with people I seriously adore! I loved the first book of this series, but in this one the author takes things to a whole new level! I just love the author's writing style and his ability to not just tell his story but to do so in a beautifully lyric way! Graham and Lex are two characters that I will not soon forget! This book was a joy to read and caused many a happy tear! LOVED IT!!!!!
692 reviews85 followers
July 5, 2021
When I thought this series wasn't going to get any better, a fairy tale came up
Lex is a prince, of those for real, with a father as king of a small kingdom in Europe who flees to be able to live freely
Graham owns Portland's best restaurant and gives a job to the young prince without knowing his condition
The attraction between the 2 is instantaneous and when they both expect a happy ending, Vincent, head of security of the king, arrives to Portland
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
Profile Image for AngelFire.
765 reviews50 followers
July 15, 2022
DNF @ 2%

The writing was so painfully amateur that I knew I wouldn't be able to focus on the story. It reminds me of a teenager's first attempts at creative writing where you can tell they're trying really hard but their skills still have a long way to go.
1,548 reviews11 followers
October 1, 2020
I love this Cinderella story so much!
I loved the whole Prince in disguise theme, with Lex running away from his responsibility as next king and fleeing to America where he starts to work as a waiter in Graham's restaurant. When they say "fake it until you make it, the only notions Lex has of waiting tables in America come from watching rom-coms).
The two men get close and start a relationship but Lex's father is looking for him and wants his son back in his rightful place on the throne...
Catching, engaging and super sweet and sexy!
Profile Image for Sanna.
581 reviews21 followers
June 20, 2020
A classic type story of its kind

3.75~

This story is a second title in MM Contemporary Series with a HEA and can be read as a complete standalone. There are no trigger warnings I'd consider necessary. There's a classic hidden identity type of plot, Royals, a runaway prince finding his Cinderella MM style, even a Cinderella ball so as to say, the usual type of angst about their fate whether they'll get each other and their HEA in the end. A classic storyline of this type quite nicely done. The pair nice to each other, a nice, easy, fast read.

If I should pick something negative, maybe that I didn't like the cover as it didn't fit the book theme in any way. Secondly, despite how classic and typical (well executed!) but without any real surprises or unexpected plot twists or ... anything individual? to set it apart, dpice it up, give it a flair of its own in a way or two from all those previously existing ones it might be seen as. If there had been, I'd give it a bit more. There was otherwise nothing actually wrong, badly done, missing, too much etc. Allaround quite nice and pleasant describes it well.


Profile Image for E.Muddle.
1,400 reviews22 followers
June 16, 2020
Although I struggled to feel the connection between Lex and Graham, I did enjoy their story. It has all the drama you would expect of a runaway prince trying to escape his father and his duties. All Lex has ever wanted is to be free to be his own person but because of some outdated laws and expectations, he has to literally disappear for that to happen. His life moving from one place to another is working fairly well until he meets Graham and suddenly has to decide if staying in one place is worth it. I did love how determined Lex becomes to protect Graham when he realises that he is his everything; and how Graham feels exactly the same. It's pretty insta-love though and I think if we got to see more of a build up of their feelings it might have come across as a little more organic. But despite that, I still got invested in their relationship and was rooting for them to find a way to stay together in the end to get their well-deserved HEA.
Profile Image for Claudia.
1,069 reviews7 followers
February 19, 2021
3.5

An improvement over the previous installment but I'm not totally sure why one of these has to be straight in these couplings when it doesn't really contribute much to the story. The royal aspect wasn't as prominent as I thought it would be but I enjoyed that.
Profile Image for Jenn.
1,177 reviews7 followers
June 19, 2020
4.5 Stars

I've been looking forward to Graham's story and once again, Jason Collins didn't disappoint. I loved Graham and Lex and the bonus royal element (I am a sucker for royals!) These two were a great match for each other and a beautiful example of how powerful true love can be!

Graham works hard trying to make his restaurant a success, he's devoted to this restaurant. One day he finds himself short a server, and as fate would have it in walks Lex looking for a job. Graham decides to give him a chance, he does need the help, but he notices that Lex does things a bit differently. He learns that Lex is from another country, waiting for his credentials to transfer. There's an immediate connection between these two, little moments they share. They begin to grow closer and Graham can tell there is something Lex isn't telling him. Lex, well he's trying to protect his secret and his choice to live life his way. Yes, he may be a prince but he has no intention of being the next in line for the throne, but how long can he hide from his father and his security.

I really loved how these fell for each other and what their relationship became, it was clear that it was deep and true for both of these guys. The struggles are there though, Graham is devoted to his restaurant and it's success, Lex knows it's really only a matter of time until he's torn away from Graham... Their story really got me in the feels, I was so rooting for them and wanted them to be happy. There was a lot of emotion as their story comes together and these two really understand what they will do in order to be together. I loved the way it all came together, definitely a fairy tale moment for them. A great read and great addition to this series!
Profile Image for Onyerbike.
210 reviews6 followers
November 24, 2020
I love a good Cinderfella story. A handsome prince on the run who falls for (in this case, actively pursues) a great "normal" guy? Sign me up. Toss in a relatively low-angst, not drawn-out separation in the final act, while still getting an amazing HEA? I'm buying.

Lex has run away from Archand, where he is expected to become the next king. He finds himself in Portland, with little money, and in need of a job. He gets himself hired as a waiter at Graham's restaurant, *slightly* overstating his qualifications. Okay, he outright lies, because the only waitering knowledge he has comes from television rom-coms.

The attraction between the two is instant, and Lex finds himself saying in a spare bedroom at Graham's house, though Graham's motivation (as Graham keeps telling himself) is a simple kindness, to save Lex from having to spend his hard-earned money on a cheap motel.

At Lex's instigation, they begin a relationship (well, hooking up, to begin with). But Lex's responsibilities aren't far behind, as his father (the King of Archand) has his security team searching for him, and wants him back to fulfill his duty by becoming king, and of course marrying and producing that all-important heir.

There is a fairy godmother of sorts, whoc despite his loyalty to crown and country, works to help Lex find his best way.

Lex is a sexy, up-front, and confident character whom I instantly fell in love with. Graham is a steady, responsible, and loveable guy you can't help but root for. The cast of secondary characters is great, too.

This was an engaging read, and I may have shed some tears toward the end (okay, a lot. Sue me), but they were willingly shed, and I'd read this again knowing they were coming.
Profile Image for Julianne Macneil.
3,697 reviews28 followers
June 17, 2020
i read this book as part of an arc program. This is the second book in the Close Quarters series and is Graham's story. Graham owns a restaurant and is a workaholic. His restaurant is the most important thing to him and he hasn't dated in over a year. When his waiter quits, he knows he has to hire someone soon and puts an ad out, as well as a sign in the window. Lex sees the sign and goes in hoping to find work. Lex explains he is from a foreign country and all of his references would be in another language. Graham decides to give him a chance and it is obvious Lex is not a great waiter, but Graham keeps him, hoping he will get better. When Graham learns Lex si living in a hotel, he tells him he can stay at his house with him and Noah. Lex is in hiding, he is a prince and was expected to take the throne soon, but he ran away. Now Lex is hiding from his father's security and doesn't know how long he will be able to stay with Graham. Lex was alway straight, but he is very attracted to Graham. When they flirt with each other and Lex kisses Graham, he knows he wants to be with him. They begin seeing each other, but Graham knows Lex is keeping secrets and Lex knows he will have to flee again soon. This was like a fairy tale. I love how Lex and Graham fell in love. They both loved the other so much and wanted to be together, but Lex knew he had to leave. I think it was so emotional at times. I loved Graham, he was so sweet. I think Graham wanted everyone to be happy and loved his friends. This was another great one from Jason.
4,872 reviews18 followers
September 22, 2020
Sometimes parents don't know best, and have to adjust. Lex felt smothered and was on the run from a life and family obligations he didn't want. He needed money and decided to apply for a waiter's job. He expected his charm to excuse the fact he had no experience. He decided to keep his closest guarded secret, closely guarded. Graham was the owner of The Edible Modern. It was his dream restaurant, his baby, his family. Juliet was his best friend, his hostess, his muse and his inspiration. She was as dedicated to Edible as he was. When Lex walked in, Graham thought he was the most beautiful humen he ever saw. Lex, was interested in Grahan even though he was straight. He still felt drawn to Graham. He was dragging massive emotional baggage since he was a runaway Prince a few steps ahead of his Dad, the King's security detail and Vincent the formidable head of securit. As Lex and Graham worked together, they got to know each other better and better. Can Lex continue to evade Vincent? How long will the King let Lex play? What will Graham say about Prince Lex? Does Lex have a green card? Nice story. The will they, will he can thay makes it an interesting read. Characters are well thought out interesting and fun. Nicely done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,199 reviews8 followers
June 27, 2020
The waiter you're falling for is a missing prince? What do you do!

I was totally enchanted by this book! The setting may not be exotic, but the characters are alive, vibrant, and sure to capture your heart. Rebellion, passion, revelation, good friends, and steamy sex... what's not to love! Oh, and a little girl who gets to be princess for a day.
Lex doesn't want the throne. He escapes to America right before his coronation day. To makes ends meet, he becomes a waiter. He isn't supposed to fall for his boss. Graham is married to his restaurant. He doesn't have time for a relationship, especially not with his new waiter. But the attraction between Lex & Graham is as intense as it is inevitable. Keep your fan handy... This book is hot!
Yes, there is a fairytale ending. I won't give away the story. I will just say that friends will come through, and family will surprise you. You will love this book!
This book contains adult themes and language, mm sex and is intended for mature readers only.
Profile Image for Cheryl_cajun .
1,213 reviews29 followers
June 15, 2020
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review.
On re-opening Graham is crunk with one server quitting when a hottie walks in to apply for the job Graham rushes to hire him after all who need references right..or experience.. but to invite him to move in after only knowing Lex for a few hours. Trusting much? Just saying...
Lex isn't totally honest with Graham but when he is hiding out from his real life, Lex can't let his guard down or start all over. Graham is the first man he has felt anything for but is the feelings mutual? Both have secrets can they trust in each other? Will the struggle to keep love at bay crash and burn when hidden identity is revealed?
33 reviews
October 31, 2022
did not finish

I was pulled in by the plot, but it just did not work for me. Stopped at 58%, which I feel is a pretty good try. The parting of Lex and Graham was just too melodramatic! I half expected Graham to faint! The dialogue was so cliche.

For someone who runs a reputable restaurant, it was unbelievable that Graham would hire someone without a resume or doing reference or background checks. The other waiter had just quit, so it was hardly an emergency situation.

Not filling up the customer water glasses and refusing customer tips - these lapses on Lex’s first shift just seemed oddly chosen to me. It was downhill from there, for me.
Profile Image for Shelley Chastagner.
2,727 reviews37 followers
June 15, 2020
Oh. My. God! I LOVED this book so hard!!! This has a feel of Cinderfella for those of us who love fairytales. Graham is a man completely wrapped up in his job to the detriment of his love life. When he hires Lex he gains balance and a man worth giving everything up for. Lex has been running from his life and found someone worth staying for. Graham and Lex reconnecting at Lex’s family home was swoon-worthy. Graham and Lex fight for their relationship in a way that made me cheer, standing up to anyone who stands in their way. The ending is worth rereading at least twice.
2,321 reviews8 followers
June 20, 2020
Great story with a prince who is running from his life and hiding out working in a restaurant. The prince, Lex, and the restaurant's owner, Graham, have a strong attraction to one another and great chemistry. I really like that they got to know each other as they worked together but can their relationship survive when Lex's true identity is discovered. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Audrey Pott.
680 reviews1 follower
June 30, 2021
Who doesn’t want their Prince Charming, Graham’s love is his restaurant, he hires Lex who’s keeping huge secrets, Juliet a delight who helps Graham at the The Edible Modern and Vincent the bodyguard and of course their friends. This was an emotional, engrossing and sexy ride, there was so much substance in the plot.

I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I absolutely recommend this book.
Profile Image for DENICE.
1,377 reviews5 followers
June 18, 2020
WHAT ONE WOULD GIVE UP FOR LOVE

I received this book for free and am giving my honest and voluntary review

Graham Holden is a restaurateur and meets Lex White (Runaway Prince Alexander Wittier – not known to Graham) and hires him as a waiter. They fall in love and things get out of control when Lex decides he’s in love with Graham. A whirlwind of emotions and events.
Profile Image for Danna Iuliana.
1,108 reviews2 followers
June 27, 2020
This was pretty boring, low on angst or drama, everything resolves swimmingly for the couple. Graham was a meah character for me, also, in the end the King did the right thing by his children so the MC's ditching security and their penthouse bc of Graham's pouting felt childish. The king's only stipulation that his son live in a safe neighborhood was more than reasonable.
Profile Image for Jennifer Veer-Boyes.
Author 1 book1 follower
July 26, 2020
Great Read

I truly enjoyed this book more than I did book one. There was no push and pullI, it’s your fault it’s my fault, blah blah blah. Just strictly I love you, you love me, my dad might be a problem lol.

I loved their connection and the passion between the two. The storyline was kind of up in the air, but still a good read. Can’t wait to start book three.
22 reviews
November 23, 2020
Fairytales DO come true!😍

What an absolutely wonderful fairytale romance! Just steamy enough to keep you going, and filled with romance at every turn. Mr. Collins has done an exceptional job of writing this tale, deftly keeping our attention focused on all the right things. Great story!
Profile Image for Joscelyn Smith.
2,300 reviews17 followers
June 15, 2020
Jason Collins has once again given me well-written characters whose story totally drew me in. Graham and Lex were great and who doesn't love a prince in hiding story, I know I do. A great addition to my library.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
1,957 reviews16 followers
June 16, 2020
Lex and Graham's story is such a sweet and fun read. They definitely come from different backgrounds but they just fit. I am just getting into a Prince in hiding storyline so this is a perfect read for me. Jason Collins has pull me right into this story and I just love it.
Profile Image for Linda.
675 reviews14 followers
June 21, 2020
A Cinderella story. Graham owns a restaurant, hires Lex who unbeknownst to Graham is a runaway royal as a waiter. Join Graham & Lex on their journey in a well written love story . I was offered an ARC for an honest review.
Profile Image for Lisa Pichner.
232 reviews8 followers
September 15, 2020
A must read

I absolutely loved this read?
Graham and Lex captured my interest from the first page.
Graham is funny and full of love.
Lex is all heart and the perfect gentleman.
This is definitely my new favorite book and I highly recommend this read.
Profile Image for Coral Mitchell.
3,188 reviews
July 4, 2021
Lex does not want the life being forced on him. Graham has on love, his restaurant. Meeting and taking in love with Lex changes his priorities. He knows Lex is hiding something but trusts he will tell him when he's ready.
Profile Image for Joseph.
788 reviews4 followers
February 28, 2022
I have been hit or miss with this author over the past years when I’ve read his books. This one however is a big hit. I really like the story I like both of the main characters and the idea of the prince was done in this particular case really well. I strongly recommend
1,758 reviews7 followers
June 17, 2020
I loved it!! I was so invested in these guys. And, they were beautiful together. Now, I'm so looking forward to Book 3.

*Works as a standalone*
62 reviews3 followers
June 19, 2020
Sweet

Who doesn’t love a fairytale? Enjoyable, light read about a couple of lovingly developed characters. Hit the beach or the pool with a frozen drink and relax!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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