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The Royal Trilogy #2
Princess in Love
Only her heart knows the truth…. From bestselling author Julianne MacLean comes a Regency romance that will sweep you away to a world of passion and intrigue during the Napoleonic era - from the glittering palaces of great monarchs to the breath-taking Battle of Waterloo… Princess Rose is the beautiful daughter of a great European king, and a political marriage for her has already been arranged. Dutiful and loyal to her family, Rose has accepted her fate, but she soon begins to question her duty when Leopold Hunt, the handsome Marquess of Cavanaugh, comes to her rescue on a rainswept English country road... Little does she know that the marquess is a secret royal with a distant hereditary claim to her father’s throne. He has been groomed to one day overthrow her father the king and rebuild his family's dynasty. Soon, Rose and Leopold’s passions burn too hotly to be denied, and the secret lovers must choose between love or honor, duty or desire. “You can always count on Julianne MacLean to deliver ravishing romance.” – Teresa Medeiros
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2012
81 people are currently reading
1175 people want to read
About the author
Julianne MacLean
80 books4,303 followersJulianne MacLean is a USA Today bestselling author of more than thirty novels, including the contemporary women’s fiction Color of Heaven Series. Readers have described her books as “breathtaking,” “soulful” and “uplifting.” MacLean is a four-time RITA finalist and has won numerous awards, including the Booksellers’ Best Award and a Reviewers’ Choice Award from Romantic Times. Her novels have sold millions of copies worldwide and have been published in over a dozen languages.
MacLean has a degree in English literature from the University of King’s College in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and a degree in business administration from Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. She loves to travel and has lived in New Zealand, Canada, and England. MacLean currently resides on the east coast of Canada in a lakeside home with her husband and daughter.
For more information about Julianne and her writing life, please visit her website at www.juliannemaclean.com. Be sure to follow her on Bookbub to be notified whenever her ebooks are offered for FREE or 99 cents. (www.bookbub.com/authors/julianne-maclean) and chat with her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JulianneMacLeanRoman...), Twitter (@JulianneMacLean), and Instagram (@JulianneMaclean).
MacLean has a degree in English literature from the University of King’s College in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and a degree in business administration from Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. She loves to travel and has lived in New Zealand, Canada, and England. MacLean currently resides on the east coast of Canada in a lakeside home with her husband and daughter.
For more information about Julianne and her writing life, please visit her website at www.juliannemaclean.com. Be sure to follow her on Bookbub to be notified whenever her ebooks are offered for FREE or 99 cents. (www.bookbub.com/authors/julianne-maclean) and chat with her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JulianneMacLeanRoman...), Twitter (@JulianneMacLean), and Instagram (@JulianneMaclean).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 2, 2021
Ik heb de Nederlands talige uitgave gelezen : De verliefde prinses - Candlelight Historische roman 1114
Een fictief land in Europa vermengd met echte historische gebeurtenissen .. mweh dat werkt voor mij niet .
Een fictief land in Europa vermengd met echte historische gebeurtenissen .. mweh dat werkt voor mij niet .
December 14, 2012
I read the first book in this trilogy it was okay, and this author is an autobuy author for me, I like her work. But when I read the back of my copy of Princess in Love I got a little worried about reading this book because of the premise. Reunited lovers? Great! One of my favourite themes. Political polar opposites, betrayal and treason? Not my favourite theme when it comes to romance.
I felt that the emotional build up between the two characters was pretty minimal, as was their interaction. You didn’t get a feel for this epic love that they were supposed to have, and because of the way the plot unfolded it honestly did not feel like I was reading the story of a couple’s romance.
As it turned out my main reason for not liking the book in the end, besides the poor development of emotional connection, was a shift in the plot that went against everything I know as being right in romances. It was such an odd occurrence in a historical romance that it really did not sit right with me at all.
So this is when I have to go into spoilers territory, so if you don’t want to know what happens, stop reading right about now.
The heroine, three quarters through the book left the hero behind and married another man – she wasn’t forced, it was her decision. This seemed like something that would be more likely to happen in a historical saga than a historical romance, and at this point of the book I would have expected an emotional connection to be made, and while there was the reveal of the hero’s lies and their misunderstanding etc, what they didn’t do was work through it to develop a deeper connection. The heroine just left the hero to rot in prison and married someone else. Not to say the hero hadn’t done wrong, but as he ended up getting out to lead the army etc etc surely the author could have made it work better than what she did. This wasn’t a romance to me, and just left me utterly bewildered as to what on earth the author had been trying to achieve.
I felt that the emotional build up between the two characters was pretty minimal, as was their interaction. You didn’t get a feel for this epic love that they were supposed to have, and because of the way the plot unfolded it honestly did not feel like I was reading the story of a couple’s romance.
As it turned out my main reason for not liking the book in the end, besides the poor development of emotional connection, was a shift in the plot that went against everything I know as being right in romances. It was such an odd occurrence in a historical romance that it really did not sit right with me at all.
So this is when I have to go into spoilers territory, so if you don’t want to know what happens, stop reading right about now.
The heroine, three quarters through the book left the hero behind and married another man – she wasn’t forced, it was her decision. This seemed like something that would be more likely to happen in a historical saga than a historical romance, and at this point of the book I would have expected an emotional connection to be made, and while there was the reveal of the hero’s lies and their misunderstanding etc, what they didn’t do was work through it to develop a deeper connection. The heroine just left the hero to rot in prison and married someone else. Not to say the hero hadn’t done wrong, but as he ended up getting out to lead the army etc etc surely the author could have made it work better than what she did. This wasn’t a romance to me, and just left me utterly bewildered as to what on earth the author had been trying to achieve.
March 20, 2013
I won this book as Goodreads giveaway and I was glad I had't paid for it
I mislaid this book and to be honest I was sorry I found it.
I liked others I had read by Julianne Maclean and I'm sorry not this one
Firtly it did a start I hate, partly in the book.
If there's a prologue I want it to be before the book starts not a bit I'm going to read anyway later in one form or another.
THE COUPLE ARE IN LOVE AND DOES SHE KEEP FAITH WITH HIM WHEN HE IS ACCUSED OF BETRAYAL NO
She marries somebody else NOOO that spoils it to start then to drag it five years before they get together I start losing interest.
I mean If I love somebody and I wouldn't have been so easily swayed he's the bad guy it's neither real nor believable.
I'd love to say otherwise but it was a disappointing book
April 15, 2024
This was really boring and the narrator didn't do it any favors.
December 14, 2012
I had a hard time with this story in that it reminded me strongly of the unfortunate flop of Mr. Cavendish, I Presume (Julia Quinn). As in Quinn's case, I felt I was re-reading sections of Be My Prince because the plot followed that closely to its prequel. Furthermore, there's a whole history lesson here on the events leading up to, and during the battle of, Waterloo. Which isn't so bad, really, but that along with the redundant plot distracted from Rose and Leopold's ill-fated romance.
This couple had a hard road to travel, much of it apart from each other because of political circumstance. And I understand the need for conflict that the couple can overcome so that they can have their HEA. But imprisonment and marrying another didn't leave much room for a satisfying romance until the very end where only a few pages were devoted to their reunion with them conveniently declaring it was all worth it in the end. I'm glad they finally got together as I really liked Rose and Leopold, but they deserved a better love story. I can only hope that the third sibling, Nicholas, gets a refreshing departure from the star-crossed lovers theme. Three stars.
This couple had a hard road to travel, much of it apart from each other because of political circumstance. And I understand the need for conflict that the couple can overcome so that they can have their HEA. But imprisonment and marrying another didn't leave much room for a satisfying romance until the very end where only a few pages were devoted to their reunion with them conveniently declaring it was all worth it in the end. I'm glad they finally got together as I really liked Rose and Leopold, but they deserved a better love story. I can only hope that the third sibling, Nicholas, gets a refreshing departure from the star-crossed lovers theme. Three stars.
January 3, 2013
I was disappointed with this selection. The plot wasn't very romantic, it was quite unbelievable. I didn't mind the war aspect, but it took away from the rest of the plot. I have to say I agree with Dayna's review below, and that the fact "spoiler below"
Rose married another man of her own free will turned me off completely. And if the author was going to kill Joseph off, he should've died in the war, not years later. The whole story was unsatisfying and unrealistic. There was no character development or growth, just two stagnant characters making conscious choices to stay apart, while pining away for one another. Their reunion wasn't even enough to redeem the story, for it lacked emotion and growth.
I would not recommend this book.
Rose married another man of her own free will turned me off completely. And if the author was going to kill Joseph off, he should've died in the war, not years later. The whole story was unsatisfying and unrealistic. There was no character development or growth, just two stagnant characters making conscious choices to stay apart, while pining away for one another. Their reunion wasn't even enough to redeem the story, for it lacked emotion and growth.
I would not recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2012
Absolutely loved this story! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:
Leopold Hunt, Marquess of Cavanaugh, is a secret Royalist and has been engaged since birth to the daughter of the true heir to the throne. With a distant claim to the throne himself, he has been raised to overthrow the current usurper king, and put his family back in power. But as he gets to know the current king’s daughter, Rose, and her family, he begins questioning the standards that have been drilled into him for most of his life.
Princess Rose has loved Leopold for most of her life, but just when she thought he might propose two years ago, he rejected her. Now she is engaged to a good man, but the marriage is political, ensured to keep her father in power. Her father had been a military general and had become king after overthrowing the royal family twenty years ago. So although they now hold power, there is not an ounce of royal blood in their veins. Still they are popular with the people.
On their way home from several charity events, Rose and the dowager duchess run into one problem after another, ending up in a ditch in the middle of a storm. As they await the arrival of help, Leopold stops to lend assistance. He is the last person Rose expects or wants to come to her rescue. Still upset with him over their breakup two years ago, she tries to ignore her desire for him…a desire which will not die. But after a few drinks, he lets her in on the fact that he is engaged and that was the reason he turned his back on her. Grudgingly forgiving him, she finds that her love for him has only grown stronger and despite the fact that she is now engaged to someone else, she cannot forget Leopold and even considers breaking her engagement. But this engagement would help her family so there was no backing out of it. Yet she cannot deny her passion for Leopold and how she feels in his arms.
Knowing Rose is engaged, but hoping she will end it to be with him, Leopold keeps a close eye on her. However, when danger enters the picture and a scandalous plot comes to fruition, putting their love to the test, will he choose Rose and love, or will he follow his family’s dictates? As one obstacle after another is put in their path, will they find their happy ever after?
An intriguing tale, PRINCESS IN LOVE, the second book in USA Today bestselling author Julianne MacLean’s THE ROYAL TRILOGY, is a clever, passionate historical romance that will keep readers glued to the pages right up to the wonderful ending. The passion between Leopold and Rose is sizzling hot and almost seems to have a life of its own. Both have been loyal to their families, but Leopold is beginning to see a different side after spending time with the ‘enemy.’ However, his father is not above manipulating things to meet his goal, no matter the cost. Brimming with subterfuge, clever banter, steamy hot situations, family dynamics, royalty, interesting characters, a captivating plot and the love of a lifetime, this heartwarming, adventure-packed story is a keeper. Although it is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. But I am sure that after reading this enthralling tale, readers will want to read the first book in this trilogy, BY MY PRINCE. Ms. MacLean is one of my favorite authors and I highly recommend her latest addition to a wonderful series. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of your own.
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
Leopold Hunt, Marquess of Cavanaugh, is a secret Royalist and has been engaged since birth to the daughter of the true heir to the throne. With a distant claim to the throne himself, he has been raised to overthrow the current usurper king, and put his family back in power. But as he gets to know the current king’s daughter, Rose, and her family, he begins questioning the standards that have been drilled into him for most of his life.
Princess Rose has loved Leopold for most of her life, but just when she thought he might propose two years ago, he rejected her. Now she is engaged to a good man, but the marriage is political, ensured to keep her father in power. Her father had been a military general and had become king after overthrowing the royal family twenty years ago. So although they now hold power, there is not an ounce of royal blood in their veins. Still they are popular with the people.
On their way home from several charity events, Rose and the dowager duchess run into one problem after another, ending up in a ditch in the middle of a storm. As they await the arrival of help, Leopold stops to lend assistance. He is the last person Rose expects or wants to come to her rescue. Still upset with him over their breakup two years ago, she tries to ignore her desire for him…a desire which will not die. But after a few drinks, he lets her in on the fact that he is engaged and that was the reason he turned his back on her. Grudgingly forgiving him, she finds that her love for him has only grown stronger and despite the fact that she is now engaged to someone else, she cannot forget Leopold and even considers breaking her engagement. But this engagement would help her family so there was no backing out of it. Yet she cannot deny her passion for Leopold and how she feels in his arms.
Knowing Rose is engaged, but hoping she will end it to be with him, Leopold keeps a close eye on her. However, when danger enters the picture and a scandalous plot comes to fruition, putting their love to the test, will he choose Rose and love, or will he follow his family’s dictates? As one obstacle after another is put in their path, will they find their happy ever after?
An intriguing tale, PRINCESS IN LOVE, the second book in USA Today bestselling author Julianne MacLean’s THE ROYAL TRILOGY, is a clever, passionate historical romance that will keep readers glued to the pages right up to the wonderful ending. The passion between Leopold and Rose is sizzling hot and almost seems to have a life of its own. Both have been loyal to their families, but Leopold is beginning to see a different side after spending time with the ‘enemy.’ However, his father is not above manipulating things to meet his goal, no matter the cost. Brimming with subterfuge, clever banter, steamy hot situations, family dynamics, royalty, interesting characters, a captivating plot and the love of a lifetime, this heartwarming, adventure-packed story is a keeper. Although it is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. But I am sure that after reading this enthralling tale, readers will want to read the first book in this trilogy, BY MY PRINCE. Ms. MacLean is one of my favorite authors and I highly recommend her latest addition to a wonderful series. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of your own.
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
March 31, 2013
Princess Rose has been in love with Leopold Hunt all of her life. But then two years ago he rejected her and hurt her more than she thought possible. Now she is engaged to another man, whom she may not love, but she knows they will make a good match. When her carriage suffers a accident in England, she is shocked when the marquess himself comes to rescue her. Face to face with Leopold has stirred up all of her old feelings that she once thought were buried. Leopold, knows he made a mistake with Rose those years ago, but now is free from his father's manipulations to pursue his true desires....which lie in a future with Rose. Now all he has to do is convince her how sincere he is this time around, and prove to her of his love and his devotion. Princess In Love is the second in this trilogy. I found myself really enjoying this one, although I did like Rose, I think I enjoyed Leopold even more. We see such strength from him, and I just love seeing how hard he tries to prove himself to Rose. I found him very endearing at various times. Leopold is a very striking characters, that just makes you want to cheer him on. I think Rose could have been more self aware, she seemed to me to be a bit spineless at times. But I did grow to like her, especially at the end. This story is divided into four parts and I just loved how this story was put together. Even though there were parts that I questioned "Why???" I definitely found it to be a sensual and witty read that keeps the reader engaged. I loved the depth of emotion that is portrayed through to the reader. Again Julianne Maclean delivers a compelling love story that will knock your socks off!!
December 13, 2012
I wasn't quite as fond of this book as I was of the first book in the series. I don't know why, I just didn't connect with it as much. However I will say that it was very well written and true to the era. When Rose and Leo were together it was absolutely wonderful, but I get the parts where they weren't. Will I read the third book when it is released in April? Absolutely!
January 10, 2015
I liked the book though I felt betrayed by Julianne MacLean towards the end and the plot had some turns that made my heart ache and my stomach turn.
December 19, 2022
After the first book “Be My Prince”, I could not love this novel. The first book gave much of it away and it was over half over when the real story began. I could not get into the character of Leopold and I did not want him to have a happy ending. I cannot even say why that is… it’s not often that you wouldn’t route for the main characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2020
A lot better
I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book a lot more than I did the first book.. There were sparks between each characters the details were amazing.. The book overall was amazing
I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book a lot more than I did the first book.. There were sparks between each characters the details were amazing.. The book overall was amazing
March 31, 2021
Rose who is the king's sister is engaged to the Archduke of Austria but loves Leopold Hunt, a marquess. What to do about this? Leopold is accused of treason so she marries the archduke. But life changes and that is the great read of this story.
April 21, 2024
I can always count on a Julianne MacLean book, and this reminded me why I adore Regency romance! A delicious hero, a smart heroine, sizzling sexual tension, and a fabulous bit of intrigue had me reading this in a single day. :)
May 3, 2020
Well didn't like the female lead rushed attitudes that's all.. I'm still in love for the 1st book.
Don't need the 3 books, but once you read the 1st leaves something on the air for your curiosity.
I only read romances located these centuries (18th/19th).
Don't need the 3 books, but once you read the 1st leaves something on the air for your curiosity.
I only read romances located these centuries (18th/19th).
August 24, 2020
Great read , 2nd book
I have enjoyed the second book as well as the first. Characters are well fleshed out. The historical overview is well researched.
I have enjoyed the second book as well as the first. Characters are well fleshed out. The historical overview is well researched.
September 18, 2020
Book 2 of the Royal Romance series... A nice follow up to book 1 and a rather sweet romance. A quick light read. 😊
February 16, 2021
Great love story!
November 9, 2022
I liked this very much. I loved the way the story played out. The book is well written and flows well. The descriptions were very good. I especially loved the ending.
October 22, 2013
Warning: Review may contain spoilers
I read this book after I read the last book of the series, The Prince’s Bride because I was intrigued by the mention of Princess Rose in the book (where her HEA wasn’t even mentioned). I actually bought this book last year but didn’t get around to reading it until after I read the final book in the trilogy.
I’d like to start with Rose and Leopold as a couple. I was actually intrigued by their relationship when I read the prologue. In it, Leo was in jail for treason and for plotting to kill the king (Rose’s brother) with Rose feeling betrayed and heart broken. We also find out that Rose does not want to hear Leo’s explanations and tells him that it is over between them. The prologue ends here.
Now, we read the backstory on how Rose and Leopold really met. See, Leo was in fact with the opposition, headed by his father to overthrow Rose’s family. In fact, the plan was to seduce Alexandra (now the current Queen; see Be My Prince) and in so doing, take over the Kingdom of Pettersbourg. This did not come to pass however, and Leo breaks off with his father and tells him that he does not want to be involved in the plot to overthrow the King. it was revealed that Leo does not have any interest in taking over and ruling as king, especially now that he had fallen in love with Rose. Rose and Leo meet in secret and their relationship is not discovered until Leo was captured and charged with murdering Rose’s father and attempted murder to her brother. Word goes out about their relationship and Rose desides to marry another.
Thoughts on Rose marrying another
Let me back up a little bit. Rose was already engaged to marry the future Emperor of Austria, Joseph but she had broken off her when she feel in love with Leo. When Leo’s involvement with the whole plot to overthrow the kingdom was revealed, she felt betrayed (and rightly so) and decided to marry Joseph.
First off, I thought her reaction to the betrayal was appropriate. In fact, I would have felt the same thing if I found out that the love of my life was not one hundred percent honest to me, especially at this level. However, I just could not imagine marrying someone else right after all this happened, which was what she did. This just felt so shallow of her to do if she was professing that she loved Leo. Plus, this was Leo and Rose’s story so I was scratching my head a little when I read this part. I thought this ruined the story for me. After this, the story went bleh for me and it was not very exciting at all. I did appreciate that Ms. MacLean left out the marital relations that happened between Rose and Joseph.
Thoughts on their happily ever after
I liked how Leo redeemed himself by joining the war. I also liked that he rescued Joseph during the war despite his feelings. I just did not like that Joseph lived. See, the author was already planning to kill him off and by dying years later was just tacky because we all know Rose still pined for Leo (right?!). There was also a lot of martyring involved here which I thought was just too convenient to happen in real life. If the author wanted to kill Joseph, why not make him die a heroic death so I, as a reader, do not feel that Rose was just too shallow and Leo too forgiving.
I may have to read the first book in the series just to see how Randolph and Alexandra got their HEA.
I read this book after I read the last book of the series, The Prince’s Bride because I was intrigued by the mention of Princess Rose in the book (where her HEA wasn’t even mentioned). I actually bought this book last year but didn’t get around to reading it until after I read the final book in the trilogy.
I’d like to start with Rose and Leopold as a couple. I was actually intrigued by their relationship when I read the prologue. In it, Leo was in jail for treason and for plotting to kill the king (Rose’s brother) with Rose feeling betrayed and heart broken. We also find out that Rose does not want to hear Leo’s explanations and tells him that it is over between them. The prologue ends here.
Now, we read the backstory on how Rose and Leopold really met. See, Leo was in fact with the opposition, headed by his father to overthrow Rose’s family. In fact, the plan was to seduce Alexandra (now the current Queen; see Be My Prince) and in so doing, take over the Kingdom of Pettersbourg. This did not come to pass however, and Leo breaks off with his father and tells him that he does not want to be involved in the plot to overthrow the King. it was revealed that Leo does not have any interest in taking over and ruling as king, especially now that he had fallen in love with Rose. Rose and Leo meet in secret and their relationship is not discovered until Leo was captured and charged with murdering Rose’s father and attempted murder to her brother. Word goes out about their relationship and Rose desides to marry another.
Thoughts on Rose marrying another
Let me back up a little bit. Rose was already engaged to marry the future Emperor of Austria, Joseph but she had broken off her when she feel in love with Leo. When Leo’s involvement with the whole plot to overthrow the kingdom was revealed, she felt betrayed (and rightly so) and decided to marry Joseph.
First off, I thought her reaction to the betrayal was appropriate. In fact, I would have felt the same thing if I found out that the love of my life was not one hundred percent honest to me, especially at this level. However, I just could not imagine marrying someone else right after all this happened, which was what she did. This just felt so shallow of her to do if she was professing that she loved Leo. Plus, this was Leo and Rose’s story so I was scratching my head a little when I read this part. I thought this ruined the story for me. After this, the story went bleh for me and it was not very exciting at all. I did appreciate that Ms. MacLean left out the marital relations that happened between Rose and Joseph.
Thoughts on their happily ever after
I liked how Leo redeemed himself by joining the war. I also liked that he rescued Joseph during the war despite his feelings. I just did not like that Joseph lived. See, the author was already planning to kill him off and by dying years later was just tacky because we all know Rose still pined for Leo (right?!). There was also a lot of martyring involved here which I thought was just too convenient to happen in real life. If the author wanted to kill Joseph, why not make him die a heroic death so I, as a reader, do not feel that Rose was just too shallow and Leo too forgiving.
I may have to read the first book in the series just to see how Randolph and Alexandra got their HEA.
October 29, 2012
This is the second book in Julianne Maclean’s Royal Trilogy, which features the youngest royal, Princess Rose. In this story, Leopold Hunt, Marquess of Cavanaugh, shows us that an omission is as good as a lie and it can cost you everything you hold dear.
Rose’s father, a great soldier, was put on the throne after a revolution overthrew the prior King. He has ruled for over twenty years and has raised his son, Randolph, to succeed him. Leopold’s father is a firm royalist and has been waiting these 20 years to dethrone the King, and put his own son, Leopold, a distant but true royal descendent, on the throne.
When Rose met Leopold two years ago, she was certain their mutual admiration would lead to a proposal of marriage. She all but had her wedding dress picked out, when she was pushed aside by Leo and she learned a painful lesson about love. What Leopold had neglected to mention during their time together was that he has been secretly engaged to the last living child of the former king, Princess Alexandra Tremaine, and their marriage would further support Leo’s claim to the throne. The same Princess Alexandra who was now going to marry Rose’s own brother, Randolph.
Leopold has spent some time away from his father, and after returning from the Napoleonic wars as a hero, Leo has begun to realize that not only does he not share his father’s ambitions to rule the country, he truly admires the King and Prince Randolph. A chance meeting throws Rose and Leopold together again and with his betrothal broken, he wants to pursue a love with Rose. But Leopold has forgotten to mention his royalist father and his secret plot to dethrone Rose’s father.
But even the darkest secrets manage to find their way into the light and when a plot is discovered to kill the King and fingers point to the royalists, Leopold’s past and secret plots start to crumble the foundations of his new love affair with Rose. It is too late to confess his change to heart so now the truth sounds like a lie.
Can love survive when lies, ambition and power come into play? Can you sift out the truth from the lies when there is a crown to be won? Leopold believed he could just walk away cleanly from a lifetime of plotting but will the mark of betrayal be too much for new love to survive?
THOUGHTS:
I really liked this book, Julianne Maclean has a nice writing style, but I didn’t absolutely love this story plot. Pathetic that I am, some stories stress me out especially when you can see the lies that are going to bite the character in the butt. The bigger the lies, the bigger the bite, the more stressed I get. (So sad)
So the first thing I would recommend to you is to skip the Prologue. When the premise of the book includes two people both with an interest in a same crown, you know that you are going to face big issues. I thought the prologue gave too much of what was going to happen so I spent my time waiting for the book to catch up to the prologue and it cast a shadow over the whole story. Start with Chapter 1, the prologue is repeated in the story.
It was a wonderful story. The storyline was more creative than the usual regency fare. Just skip that prologue.
Received ARC from the author. Thank you.
see more at http://ebookobsessed.com
Rose’s father, a great soldier, was put on the throne after a revolution overthrew the prior King. He has ruled for over twenty years and has raised his son, Randolph, to succeed him. Leopold’s father is a firm royalist and has been waiting these 20 years to dethrone the King, and put his own son, Leopold, a distant but true royal descendent, on the throne.
When Rose met Leopold two years ago, she was certain their mutual admiration would lead to a proposal of marriage. She all but had her wedding dress picked out, when she was pushed aside by Leo and she learned a painful lesson about love. What Leopold had neglected to mention during their time together was that he has been secretly engaged to the last living child of the former king, Princess Alexandra Tremaine, and their marriage would further support Leo’s claim to the throne. The same Princess Alexandra who was now going to marry Rose’s own brother, Randolph.
Leopold has spent some time away from his father, and after returning from the Napoleonic wars as a hero, Leo has begun to realize that not only does he not share his father’s ambitions to rule the country, he truly admires the King and Prince Randolph. A chance meeting throws Rose and Leopold together again and with his betrothal broken, he wants to pursue a love with Rose. But Leopold has forgotten to mention his royalist father and his secret plot to dethrone Rose’s father.
But even the darkest secrets manage to find their way into the light and when a plot is discovered to kill the King and fingers point to the royalists, Leopold’s past and secret plots start to crumble the foundations of his new love affair with Rose. It is too late to confess his change to heart so now the truth sounds like a lie.
Can love survive when lies, ambition and power come into play? Can you sift out the truth from the lies when there is a crown to be won? Leopold believed he could just walk away cleanly from a lifetime of plotting but will the mark of betrayal be too much for new love to survive?
THOUGHTS:
I really liked this book, Julianne Maclean has a nice writing style, but I didn’t absolutely love this story plot. Pathetic that I am, some stories stress me out especially when you can see the lies that are going to bite the character in the butt. The bigger the lies, the bigger the bite, the more stressed I get. (So sad)
So the first thing I would recommend to you is to skip the Prologue. When the premise of the book includes two people both with an interest in a same crown, you know that you are going to face big issues. I thought the prologue gave too much of what was going to happen so I spent my time waiting for the book to catch up to the prologue and it cast a shadow over the whole story. Start with Chapter 1, the prologue is repeated in the story.
It was a wonderful story. The storyline was more creative than the usual regency fare. Just skip that prologue.
Received ARC from the author. Thank you.
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November 8, 2012
I've read a handful of historical romances but this must be my favorite out of all of them. I felt like I was reading a historical nicholas sparks novel, mixture of my favorites The Notebook and Dear John.
When I first read the prologue, i hesitated to read any further for it felt like a spoiler but I gave it a chance and I don't even know why I hesitated in the first place. It was a very romantic, tragic, and lingering love story that surely left me with a smiling and joyful heart. Indeed, true love, no matter the circumstances, the distance and the length of time, will find a way to be forever.
The characters are very well-liked; from the main to the supporting characters. Rose was strong-willed, passionate, and thoughtful. She faced a lot of heartaches but she never allowed herself to remain miserable. She always stood back stronger. She may have made decisions that I didn't like at first, but she stood firmly on it and I admired her more.
Leopold. I LOVE this guy. Very brave, passionate, and loyal. When he loves, he loves with all his being. I like his jealous sides and I felt for him when he lost his only love. And that letter he sent Rose before she left for Austria. Oh boy. The number of times he pleaded for her to stay. It broke my heart.
(This might contain a TINY bit of spoiler.)
Joseph. Good, gentle, loving, and understanding Joseph. He's a great husband, friend, soldier, must've been a great father, and could've been a great emperor but above all, he's a great man. I find him no faults and I'm glad he lived a happy life. He deserved it.
I enjoyed and loved this book and I might even check out the rest of the series. I sure would love to know whatever happened to Lady Elise and Prince Nicholas. I feel like they're quite a match. Anyway, this is a good historical romance and it made me love this genre even more.
True happiness is worth waiting for.
When I first read the prologue, i hesitated to read any further for it felt like a spoiler but I gave it a chance and I don't even know why I hesitated in the first place. It was a very romantic, tragic, and lingering love story that surely left me with a smiling and joyful heart. Indeed, true love, no matter the circumstances, the distance and the length of time, will find a way to be forever.
The characters are very well-liked; from the main to the supporting characters. Rose was strong-willed, passionate, and thoughtful. She faced a lot of heartaches but she never allowed herself to remain miserable. She always stood back stronger. She may have made decisions that I didn't like at first, but she stood firmly on it and I admired her more.
Leopold. I LOVE this guy. Very brave, passionate, and loyal. When he loves, he loves with all his being. I like his jealous sides and I felt for him when he lost his only love. And that letter he sent Rose before she left for Austria. Oh boy. The number of times he pleaded for her to stay. It broke my heart.
(This might contain a TINY bit of spoiler.)
Joseph. Good, gentle, loving, and understanding Joseph. He's a great husband, friend, soldier, must've been a great father, and could've been a great emperor but above all, he's a great man. I find him no faults and I'm glad he lived a happy life. He deserved it.
I enjoyed and loved this book and I might even check out the rest of the series. I sure would love to know whatever happened to Lady Elise and Prince Nicholas. I feel like they're quite a match. Anyway, this is a good historical romance and it made me love this genre even more.
True happiness is worth waiting for.
July 26, 2013
Out of the three books in the trilogy, I think that this was my favorite as a stand-alone. The part I didn't like was that the story overlapped the prior story just used different POVs. However, none of the emotional/character conflict made it into this one so that if you read it alone, you would know of the happily ever after of the first novel.
I felt that the hero/heroine conflict was much more developed and intriguing than either of the other two books in the series. Initially the attraction between the two was not well-developed because there is this past that the audience only knows by the characters thoughts, thoughts which weren't able to fully explore the depths of the emotions of the prior relationship. It is hard to initially believe how deep the feelings go. However, as the story developed, especially toward the end, part iv, where the growth of the characters really starts moving, the emotions were very strong and well-portrayed.
Both Leopold and Rose have responsibilities and duties to their families that impact their relationship. They both face challenges as a result and have to make tough choices. Some of the results are not typically romance story outcomes, but I enjoyed that things were not so easily resolved into a happy ever after, if they had resolved all issues right off, it would have been too contrived. I liked how everything resolved and then re-resolved.
I felt that the hero/heroine conflict was much more developed and intriguing than either of the other two books in the series. Initially the attraction between the two was not well-developed because there is this past that the audience only knows by the characters thoughts, thoughts which weren't able to fully explore the depths of the emotions of the prior relationship. It is hard to initially believe how deep the feelings go. However, as the story developed, especially toward the end, part iv, where the growth of the characters really starts moving, the emotions were very strong and well-portrayed.
Both Leopold and Rose have responsibilities and duties to their families that impact their relationship. They both face challenges as a result and have to make tough choices. Some of the results are not typically romance story outcomes, but I enjoyed that things were not so easily resolved into a happy ever after, if they had resolved all issues right off, it would have been too contrived. I liked how everything resolved and then re-resolved.
January 13, 2015
My guess is that many of us start fantasizing about how well we could write while we're reading a bad book. I feel this way often when reading romance. Why oh why do I keep trying? Well, I read a review where someone gushes and I think maybe it's better than the others and then it's EXACTLY THE SAME. Just switch around the names, change the location and ta da! another insipid romance novel is born.
January 24, 2016
I enjoyed this book because it was different than the usual historical romance. I
almost wanted to stop reading at one point because it seemed trite---two nobles fall in love and it appears all will be well.... Unbelievable what happens!
A man has to weather several types of adversity and comes out more mature because of it.
I read this book because I enjoyed MacLean's Highlander Series books. I do like them better
than this one.
almost wanted to stop reading at one point because it seemed trite---two nobles fall in love and it appears all will be well.... Unbelievable what happens!
A man has to weather several types of adversity and comes out more mature because of it.
I read this book because I enjoyed MacLean's Highlander Series books. I do like them better
than this one.
January 23, 2013
I really liked this book. I wasn't sure about the interaction with the previous story when it started out, but it soon had me turning the pages. I felt there was a lot of intensity between Rose and Leopold, and even though they faced quite a bit of adversity, both through war and betrayal, it all came out as it should in the end. Very poignant and moving.
January 24, 2013
So you want me to like a book where the hero tricks the heroine into falling in love with him, then actually falls in love with her, then she marries another and pops out a kid and then in the end, they somewhat end up back together after two fucking decades?
Want to read
August 11, 2012Leoooooo...
May 7, 2013
It took a while to get into this book, it started out slow. I kept with it and was glad, it was a good read in the end
April 14, 2013
I liked this book so much better than the first in this trilogy. So many twists and turns with our hero and heroine. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
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