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Royals Saga #11

Breathe Me

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"Makes you wish this love story will never end. I'm in for life!" - Audrey Carlan, #1 New York Times Bestseller

We’ve left our pasts behind us and moved forward. Together.

Settling into our new estate, we’ve left the chaos of London and moved to the country. It’s everything my husband believed he didn’t deserve: a home, a family, and me in his bed.

Now we’re about to meet the proof of our love, but as we wait for our first child, something sinister is closing in us.

Some sins can’t be forgotten—or forgiven—and when it’s time to pay for them, will we lose everything? Even each other?

231 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 14, 2020

161 people are currently reading
711 people want to read

About the author

Geneva Lee

87 books5,051 followers
Geneva Lee is the New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author of over thirty novels. Her bestselling Royals Saga has sold nearly four million copies worldwide. She's shamelessly addicted to recovering alpha males, headstrong heroines, and drop-your-jaw plot twists. People Magazine calls Geneva's books "convincing with fluid writing that's full of drama." When she isn't writing or reading, you might find her on another adventure with her real-life hero and their three kids.

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5 stars
260 (51%)
4 stars
151 (29%)
3 stars
72 (14%)
2 stars
17 (3%)
1 star
6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
Profile Image for Alex.
436 reviews14 followers
August 29, 2023
Die Popcornmaschine kann angeworfen werden..🍿
Glaubwürdigkeit und Logik stehen nicht an erster Stelle aber es ist echt spannend und verworren und undurchsichtig und was soll ich sagen... ich muss einfach dran bleiben 😏🤩
195 reviews1 follower
July 29, 2022
Meine Meinung:

Mit Band 7 „Royal Forever“ war die Geschichte von Smith und Belle eigentlich erzählt und umso mehr freute es mich, dass die Autorin die Reihe fortführt und ich nochmal in dieses royale Umfeld eintauchen kann. Und obwohl ich die Bücher wirklich vor einiger Zeit gelesen habe und dazwischen einige hundert Bücher lagen, habe ich mich ganz gut in der Geschichte zurecht gefunden. Tatsächlich hätte ich mir einen kleinen Rückblick am Anfang des Buches gewünscht, damit auch Leser, die damals zum Release die ersten Bände gelesen haben, auch wieder auf dem neusten Stand sind, aber das wäre noch das Tüpfelchen auf dem i gewesen und hat mein Leseerlebnis jetzt nicht negativ beeinflusst.

Wie man es auch schon von der Autorin gewöhnt ist, inzwischen sind wir schließlich bei Band 11, bekommen wir als Leser beide Sichtweisen auf dem Silbertablett serviert. Das war auch gut so, da sich Belle und Smith in diesem Band immer weiter voneinander entfernen und man somit wenigstens wusste, was in den beiden (Stur-)Köpfen so abging. Tatsächlich ist es für mich ein bisschen schwer gewesen, dass die Handlung doch recht traurig und kompliziert war und die glücklicheren Momente eher rar gesät waren, da ich doch eine friedfertige Person bin und die Beiden auch echt viel durch gemacht haben. Dafür hab ich die schönen Momente umso mehr genossen. Nichtsdestotrotz war es wirklich schön zu lesen, wie es bei den Beiden weiter geht und wie sich ihre Zukunft so entwickelt hat. Clara, Alexander und Edward hatten auch so ihre Gastauftritte und so konnte man von jedem wieder ein Stückchen mehr erfahren.

Das Cover passt sich der neuen Covergestaltung der Reihe perfekt an und ich bin tatsächlich beeindruckt, dass der Verlag auch bei Band 11 immer noch ein neues passendes Design findet, was es so noch nicht gegeben. Von der Seitenanzahl ist es mit 250 Seiten das bisher dünnste Buch der Reihe, was ich schon etwas schade finde, da ich gerne noch mehr von den Beiden gelesen hätte, aber glücklicherweise geht die Geschichte von Smith und Belle in „Royal Flames“ noch weiter. Da befindet sich auch hinten im Buch eine Leseprobe und es geht auf jeden Fall spannend weiter! Der Schreibstil von Geneva Lee ist unverändert flüssig und durch die Ich-Perspektive, fiel mir das Lesen wirklich sehr einfach.

Zu den Protagonisten selbst kann ich gar nicht mehr allzu viel sagen, denn die haben wir in den ersten drei Bänden ihrer Geschichte schon wirklich sehr gut kennenlernen können. Trotzdem zeigen sie uns auch hier noch einmal andere Seite von sich selbst. Belle habe ich als eine starke, unabhängige Frau kennengelernt, aber diesmal kommt auch ihre verletzliche und unsichere Seite ans Licht. Es war nicht immer einfach für sie und ich fand ihren Kampf gegen ihre inneren Dämonen doch sehr kräftezerrend für sie und gleichzeitig hat sie nicht aufgegeben, auch wenn es schwer wurde. An ihrer Seite war immer Smith, ihr verlässlicher Stein in der Brandung. Smith ist immer noch das dominante Alpha-Männchen, welches er immer war und wohl auch immer bleiben wird, aber seine fürsorgliche und liebevolle Art hat mein Herz so sehr zum Flattern gebracht, dass ich gerade mehr Team Smith als Team Alexander bin. Auch wenn sich die Beiden wirklich nicht viel Nehmen.

Abschließend kann ich euch auch „Royal Danger“ empfehlen, vor allem wenn ihr Fans der Reihe seid. Da die Bücher zumindest abhängig von Band 4, 5 und 6 sind, solltet ihr erst die Bücher lesen bevor ihr euch Band 11 widmet. Ansonsten kann ich euch jedes einzelne Buch nur wärmstens empfehlen und freue mich jetzt schon auf den vorerst letzten Band der Royals!

Ich danke dem Blanvalet Verlag und dem Bloggerportal für die Bereitstellung dieses Rezensionsexemplars.

4 Sternchen von 5 Sternchen
Profile Image for Brooke.
155 reviews1 follower
November 21, 2024
Meh, it was interesting more than the others.
Profile Image for Siobhan.
5,037 reviews597 followers
December 16, 2020
Breathe Me is the eleventh book in Geneva Lee’s Royal saga, and this book takes us back to our characters from books four through six, Belle and Smith. I’ve read books four through six and understood them without the first three books, but my lack of knowledge was clear. It was even more obvious in this book, especially with the spoilers it provided for books seven through ten. Therefore, although this is advertised as working fine without knowledge of the whole series, I would recommend reading the entire series in order.

Breathe Me was a story that shows what happens after the happily ever after is reached, and how a happily ever after isn’t always rainbows and butterflies. Although I enjoyed getting to see more of the characters, showing how they have moved forward with their lives, I didn’t quite love this one as much as I had hoped. It certainly hooked me, and I gladly finished it in a single sitting, but I feel like this book was mostly build-up for what is to come next. Lots of elements were introduced, I’ve created lots of theories about what is going on, but I feel the action and drama that hooked me in other books from the author wasn’t quite there in this one.

Although not my favourite from the author, Breathe Me certainly has me curious to see what comes next for the characters.
Profile Image for Larrysbookworld.
129 reviews6 followers
July 27, 2022
4,5 Sterne. Ich liebe Belle und Smith. Das Buch war spannend und emotional. Meine Rezension kommt demnächst auf Bookstagram @larrysbookworld
Profile Image for Renee.
5,211 reviews73 followers
January 1, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.

We've left our past behind us and moved forward. Together. Settling into our new estate, we've left the chaos of London and moved to the country. It's everything my husband believed he didn't deserved: a home, a family and me in his bed. Now we're about to meet the proof of our love, but as we wait for our first child, something sinister is closing in us. Some sins can be forgotten-or forgiven- and when it's time to pay of them, will we lose everything? Even each other?

In this book you get to revisit with Belle and Smith. If you don't remember everything about them don't worry you will not feel lost in this book. These two are tied to they royal family and have seen their fair shard of drama and danger. Now they are waiting on their first child and Smith wants to protect his family and take them out of the line of fire surrounding the crown. These two have moved out of London and now they are going to have to return there when a remodeling mishap leads in that direction. But this too just reminds Smith of why in the world he wanted to get them out of London. This book is so good and once you pick it up you will not be putting it down. I can't wait to see what we get in the next book.
Profile Image for Live, Laugh, Love .
428 reviews17 followers
December 17, 2020
It's been a long time since I read the first Smith and Belle book. I have to admit I don't remember a lot of their past. That being said this story jumps right back in. You dont have to know the past to enjoy this story. It is very emotional and will speak to a lot of woman out there.
Profile Image for Susana Soto.
220 reviews2 followers
January 1, 2021
I love that this was another book of Smith and Belle. It's great to see what they have been up to and I really enjoyed seeing some of the other characters in this book too. It's kind of sad to see what is going on with Smith and Belle, but I'm hopeful to see their luck turn hopeful in the next book. Anyway, I love reading any book by Geneva Lee and I will never get tired of them. She's a great writer and her books always keep me stuck in the royal world. This book was no different; I couldn't wait to read what happened next! I can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Books like Soulmate Silvana Hespeling.
428 reviews2 followers
September 2, 2022
„Royal Danger (Royal 11)“ von Geneva Lee
Preis TB: 13,00 €
Preis eBook: 9,99 € (Stand: 02.09.2022)
Seitenanzahl: 288 Seiten lt. Verlagsangabe
ISBN: 978-3-7341-1151-8
Leseprobe (externer Link)
====================

Klappentext:

Belle und Smith haben sich entschlossen, von London aufs Land zu ziehen. Smith hofft, die hochschwangere Belle auf diese Weise vor den Gefahren abzuschirmen, die die königliche Familie nach wie vor umgeben. Die beiden freuen sich auf ihre gemeinsame Zukunft, und als schließlich die erste gemeinsame Tochter Penny geboren wird, scheint das Familienglück perfekt. Doch der Schein trügt: Belle fällt nach der Geburt in eine tiefe Depression und Smith muss hilflos dabei zusehen. Die beiden entfernen sich immer weiter voneinander und plötzlich ist nichts mehr, wie es vorher war. Smith beginnt sich zu fragen, ob das neue Zuhause wirklich der sichere Hafen ist, für den er es gehalten hat …
====================

Mein Fazit:

Vorweg sei gesagt, dass es sich bei jeder Rezension um meine persönliche Meinung handelt. Ich wusste zu Beginn nicht so richtig wie ich diese Rezension verfassen soll. Direkt nachdem ich mit dem lesen des Buches begonnen habe, war ich völlig verwirrt und hatte unzählige Fragen im Kopf. Ich hatte das Gefühl, dass man einfach mitten ins Geschehen geworfen wird. Dann bin ich aber auf die Idee gekommen noch einmal in Royal Secrets reinzulesen. Und siehe da: Auf einmal hatten sich die meisten Fragen erübrigt. Da doch einige Zeit zwischen diesen Bänden lag hatte ich die vorherige Handlung nicht mehr ganz im Kopf. Um dieses Buch zu verstehen sollte man auf jeden Fall die anderen Teile lesen, auch wenn die meisten davon über Clara & Alexander handeln, enthalten sie doch wichtige Informationen um dieses Buch besser verstehen zu können. Zumindest meiner Meinung nach. Der Titel Royal Danger passte für mich nicht wirklich zum Inhalt. Vielleicht hänge ich mich hier aber auch einfach an dem Wort „Danger“ auf. Das hat in mir andere Erwartungen geweckt. Der Schreibstil war flüssig und die intimen Szenen standen hier im Hintergrund was mir zur Abwechslung wirklich gut gefallen hat. Sonst ist es in den Büchern der Autorin ja eher genau andersrum. Leider muss ich bei sagen dass mich diese Story teilweise sehr deprimiert hat. Es war für mich alles andere als einfach mitzuerleben wie sehr Belle unter ihrem Muttersein leidet. An Smith hat mir gut gefallen dass er wirklich alles versucht hat um Belle aus ihrer Depression zu holen. Es tat mir schon weh zu lesen wie sehr er darunter leidet. Dennoch hat mich leider auch das Ende eher bestürzt zurückgelassen. Ich hoffe dass Royal Flames mich wieder mehr für sich begeistern kann.

3 von 5 🍀 🍀 🍀
Profile Image for mymagicalbookwonderland .
1,144 reviews7 followers
August 22, 2022
Rezension

Buchname: Royal Danger: Roman (Die Royals-Saga 11)
Autor: Geneva Lee
Seiten: 250 (Print)
Fromat: als Print und Ebook erhältlich
Verlag: ‎ ‎ Blanvalet Taschenbuch Verlag (18. Juli 2022)
Sterne: 5

Cover:
Das Cover ist richtig schön gestaltet worden. Der Buchtitel steht in hellen bzw blaufarbenen Buchstaben im mittleren Bereich. Man kann eine blaue Blumenblüte erkennen. .. Auf dem ersten Blick ist das schon mal sehr ansprechend.

Klappentext: (aus Amazon übernommen)

Er liebt sie mehr als alles andere. Doch ist das genug?
Band 11 der grandiosen »Royals«-Saga …

Belle und Smith haben sich entschlossen, von London aufs Land zu ziehen. Smith hofft, die hochschwangere Belle auf diese Weise vor den Gefahren abzuschirmen, die die königliche Familie nach wie vor umgeben. Die beiden freuen sich auf ihre gemeinsame Zukunft, und als schließlich die erste gemeinsame Tochter Penny geboren wird, scheint das Familienglück perfekt. Doch der Schein trügt: Belle fällt nach der Geburt in eine tiefe Depression und Smith muss hilflos dabei zusehen. Die beiden entfernen sich immer weiter voneinander und plötzlich ist nichts mehr, wie es vorher war. Smith beginnt sich zu fragen, ob das neue Zuhause wirklich der sichere Hafen ist, für den er es gehalten hat ...
Die gesamte »Royals«-Saga von Geneva Lee
Clara und Alexander:
Band 1 – Royal Passion
Band 2 – Royal Desire
Band 3 – Royal Love
Belle und Smith:
Band 4 – Royal Dream
Band 5 – Royal Kiss
Band 6 – Royal Forever
Clara und Alexander – Die große Liebesgeschichte geht weiter:
Band 7 – Royal Destiny
Band 8 – Royal Games
Band 9 – Royal Lies
Band 10 – Royal Secrets
Belle und Smith – Ihre Liebe wird auf den Prüfstand gestellt:
Band 11 – Royal Danger
Band 12 – Royal Flames

Schreibstil:
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist total flüssig, liest sich super und ist sehr leicht verständlich.

Charaktere:
Die Hauptprotagonistin ist Belle
Der Hauptprotagonist ist Smith

Ich fande alle Charaktere von Anfang an total sympathisch und liebenswert. Des weiteren gibt es noch ein paar andere Charaktere. . Meiner Meinung nach sind alle Charakter sehr gelungen und haben einen sehr guten Platz im Buch bekommen.
Meinung:
!!!! Achtung !!! Könnte Spoiler erhalten!!!

Mir hat „Royal Danger“ von Geneva Lee total gut gefallen. Ich möchte den elften Teil der Royals Reihe total gerne. In diesem Teil geht es wieder um Belle und Smith. Ich persönlich fande es total schön zu lesen, wie es mit den beiden und ihrer kleinen Familie so weiter geht. Bei dem Buch würde ich es total empfehlen, die Reihe von Anfang an zu lesen, weil sonst hat man keinen Überblick über die Charaktere und vor allem nicht über die Story. Ohne viel zu verraten, fande ich das Buch echt gelungen. Ok es war sehr leicht und locker geschrieben und hat jetzt nicht soooo den anspruchsvollen Text oder Inhalt. Aber das hat mich nicht gestört, denn genau das brauche ich zur Zeit. Hier hat mich einfach wieder alles überzeugt. Das Cover, der Klappentext, die Hauptprotagonisten Belle und Smith, die Story, die Umsetzung, die Idee, das Setting und die Schreibweise. Ich hatte sehr schöne Lesestunden und mir hat das Buch gut gefallen. Deshalb bekommt es von mir auch sehr verdiente 5 Sterne und eine klare Leseempfehlung.


Fazit:

Tolle Fortsetzung einer tollen Reihe. Wer ein anspruchsvolles Buch sucht, ist hier auf jeden Fall auf der falschen Seite. Es war locker und leicht zu lesen. Perfekt zum Lesen ohne zu denken. Sich einfach berieseln lassen.
Profile Image for Buch Versum.
1,744 reviews12 followers
October 17, 2022
...wieder perfekt eingetauscht...emotionsgeladene & packend...

Hier handelt sich um den 11. Teil der Royal Reihe, ihr müsst für das Verständnis die vorherigen Werke gelesen haben.

Endlich ist der Fokus wieder auf Belle und Smith, ich hab sie so sehr ins Herz geschlossen. Ich war voller Vorfeude als ich Nachschub bekam.

Das Buch hat mich schnell wieder in das Geschehen gezogen, auch wenn die Gedanken und Emotionen der Protagonisten diesmal schweirger schienen. Die zwei starsinnigen Charakteren scheinen sich sehr voneinander zu entfernen.
Ob sie es schaffen ihre Stolpersteine zu überwinden?

Lest selbst, verliet euch in den packenden Verlauf und det Hoffnung das die Herausforderung endlich ein Ende haben.

Ich war wieder hin und weg und habe mich vollkommen in die Protagonisten, ihre Dynamik als auch der traurigen Aspekte mitreißen lassen.

Ich liebe diese geniale Kombination, des mitreißenden, spannungsgeladen und emotionsgeladenen Werke von Geneva, die einen immer wieder überraschen und erstaunen.
Ihr Schreibstil beeindruckt immer wieder, ist locker und leicht als auch fesselnd, erschreckend, packend aber auch gefühlvollen und düster zugleich.

Das Buch hat mich wieder sofort in die Welt der komplexen Charaktere, ihrer Leidenschaft, ihre dunklen Fassetten als auch ihrer Liebe zueinander eingenommen.

Ich konnte das Buch nicht aus der Hand legen, habe mich vollkommen von dem packend dem atemberaubenden Handlungen, meinen Spekulationen und den Wendungen eingenommen. Ich war ergriffen und nervenaufreibend involviert, bleibe begeistert und neugierig auf den nächsten. Teil zurück.

Die Royal Saga ist eine erstaunliche Reihe, die einen alles bietet wonach sich das Leserherz sehnt und ich kann sie euch nur empfehlen, glaubt mir ihr werdet genauso begeistert sein.
Profile Image for Jolanda Gelissen.
438 reviews12 followers
December 15, 2020
This book in the series focuses on Smith and Belle. Whether they like it or not, they are tied to the royal family and as such have been involved in a fair share of drama, danger, and intrigue. With Belle pregnant with their first child, Smith wants to protect his family and take them out of the line of fire surrounding the crown. He has bought an estate in Sussex, although Belle isn’t quite so excited yet about the move.

Belle misses her best friends, Clara and Edward, and also struggles to help Edward in his grief. A surprise discovery during the remodeling of their new home forces them back to London for a while. I won’t give away too much, but let’s just say that being in London again reminds Smith of why he wanted to leave in the first place. After the baby is born, the relocate to their new estate, but all is not bliss.

This book deals with some tough themes, such as miscarriage and post-partum depression, as well as some mysterious things to do with the estate. Did they just buy an old house with some expected skeletons in its closet, or is something more sinister going on?

As a childfree person, I don’t have any personal experience with miscarriage or post-partum depression, so I cannot testify as to the authenticity of the way these themes are handled in this book. Also, they don’t pose a trigger to me. In my opinion, Geneva presented these subjects in a respectful way that helps build the narrative. I did wonder, though, whether the mysteries of the estate’s past are a contributing factor. I guess we’ll have to wait to find out...
Profile Image for Jamie.
357 reviews
December 19, 2020
Smith and Belle have decided to move to the country to get away from the hectic life they lead in London and to also give themselves an extra layer of protection from the dangers surrounding the a Royal Family. Belle is somewhat hesitant to leave the safety of the friends and family she has in a London for the move since she is about to give birth to her first child. Smith is all about the move and the remodeling of their new home in the country. Still wild about each other they frantically try to prepare the new house to be ready before their daughter is born. While they are completing the remodel though they come across a devastating find, a pile of bones. Intrigued by the find Smith enlists Georgia to help get to the truth behind the bones. All the while, Belle seems to fall into a deep depression after the birth of her daughter.

Strange things seem to follow Smith and Belle now as they try to navigate being a family of three and as they try to find the right balance between parenting and being a couple.

Forced to make some tough decisions we see Smith and Belle fight with everything they have and are to be the happy family they each want.

Beautifully written next chapter in Smith and Belle’s story. Glimpses of Clara and Alexander’s life are also given as are some hints about other favorites from the Royals Saga.
Profile Image for Adanna.
926 reviews
December 13, 2020
Smith and Belle thought they were starting their happily ever after. They are expecting a new baby any day while finishing renovations on their country estate. Unfortunately, Smith and Belle once again find themselves weathering the storm and taking on challenges from outside forces as well as personal ones.

I enjoyed the continuation of Smith and Belle’s story. It was interesting to see them navigate being new parents and dealing with everyday problems.

Edward is one of my favorites in this series. I was glad to see him featured as a secondary character in this book. I really felt for him as he struggled through the aftermath of the prior book.

It’s hard to believe that I’ve been reading the Royals Saga books since 2016. I’m addicted to this series! Breathe Me doesn’t disappoint with just the right mix of suspense and love with the perfect dose of steamy sex thrown in (it is Smith and Belle, after all!). The cliffhanger ending left me eager to see what will happen next. Thankfully we don’t have to wait long for the conclusion in Break Me!

I received a copy of this book from the author. This voluntary review reflects my honest and unbiased thoughts and opinions.
1,096 reviews5 followers
December 14, 2020
“It was important to remember that the unconditional kind—the type of love everyone wanted—didn’t mean flawless. It just meant it was worth it.”

Danger. Mistrust. Joy. Loyalty. Fear. Uncertainty. Unconditional love. Passion. Loss. Secrets. Helplessness. Security.

“There’s always unknown places in another person, no matter how much you love them or they love you.”

This book will literally have you losing your breathe. There is many layers of emotions. So many topics you can relate to or know of someone that experienced and struggled with these same experiences. It’s such an important message to give awareness to...not shame...it’s real and there is help.

“Like he owned me. Because he did. Like I craved it. Because I did.”

Of course there is also passion and chemistry woven throughout as well. The connection, bond, steaminess, unspoken connection will have you fanning yourself and a little out of breathe.

“I would protect her from anything—even herself.”

Ahhhh ~ I could not believe when I went to turn the page and there was no more... I had blocked out the real world and was so immersed in this book and did not want it to end. Thankfully Break Me, the second book in this duet, releases soon!

“Find your way back to me, beautiful.”

Profile Image for arcticbooklover.
319 reviews15 followers
December 21, 2020
If you are anything like me, emotional and cries easily, I recommend having tissues at hand.
Breathe Me was at least for me a very difficult book to read.
Don't get me wrong. Smith is my man and I love Belle with all my heart.
But this book takes them on a very emotional journey that many of us can relate to.
I didn't know it when I started to read this book that I really needed to read it.
I have burried so many emotions,thoughts and fear. Reading Breathe Me made these old stuff resurface,and I got to prosess some of it again and I managed to find someone to open up to. And it was so good to find someone to share that burden with even only for a minute or two.

Breathe Me follows Belle and Smith on the new journey in their life. A different life with a new family in a new home. Or at least for them it is a new home.
From the start you get this iffy feeling that something isn't right about that place, and that feeling still haunts me by the end of the book aswell.
For those of you who has read many of Geneva Lee's books, you know how she loves cliffhangers.. and SURPRISE, this book has one to.
I'm not sure if I'm relieved by this ending or if I'm more upset and worried. I only know I need the next book as soon as possible!
Profile Image for Jamie.
2,081 reviews93 followers
December 15, 2020
I absolutely LOVE the Royals Saga! I was so excited to hear we were getting more Belle and Smith and couldn't wait to get my hands on this book! I just love these two together. They have such a great dynamic.

Belle had me going through a mix of emotions. It was really hard for me to see her struggle. She is usually such a strong person and seeing her questioning pretty much everything in her life was rough. Smith loves Belle so much he would give her the world if he could. I fell more in love with Smith in this book. He is such a wonderful husband and father and loves his family more than anything.

I was so happy to see Edward in this book. I wasn't sure what would happen to him after the last book. I really hope that the whole group can find their way back to each other: Clara, X, Belle, Smith, and Edward. Their friendships with each other are part of the reason I fell in love with this series so much!

Breathe Me is everything I thought it would be and more! The next book can't get here soon enough!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Samantha (Millennial Life Crisis Bookshelf).
1,429 reviews22 followers
December 27, 2020
Back to Belle and Smith and I can’t be more excited! I was so excited that Geneva brought us back to Belle and Smith and continued their storyline with a new book! The book focuses on what happens after their HEA in the previous books and that things aren’t always happy and uncomplicated once the couple ends up together and in love. In this book we find that Belle is pregnant and in order to start over, the couple has decided to purchase and renovate a house in the country. But cracks start to form in the new plan Smith puts in place for them when human remains are found buried in their new home, and more questions arise as things get complicated in Belle and Smith’s lives stemming from their past. Throughout all that, we then see Belle handle finally completing a pregnancy and struggle with PPD. I loved that Geneva brought PPD to light in this book, because especially in books once the heroine has a child it’s a true HEA moment, and in Belle’s case, it wasn’t, and she struggled. This book really left me with a cliffhanger where I am dying to get more – can’t wait for the next book to find out some answers!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for sarah.booksanddreams.
1,329 reviews38 followers
October 25, 2022
Die ROYAL-Saga und ich – das ist Hassliebe.
Einerseits will ich wissen, wie es für die inzwischen lieb gewonnenen Protagonisten weitergeht,
andererseits bin ich von den immer wiederkehrenden Problemen
und stets neuen Herausforderungen genervt.
Trotzdem war meine Freude auf das Wiedersehen mit Belle und Smith groß.
Im Nachhinein aber genauso ernüchternd.

Die Liebe des Paars wird auf die Probe gestellt …
und das obwohl sie gerade im Glück schwelgen sollte.
Aber gut, das dargestellte Problem ist nur zu menschlich.
Aber eigentlich wird es auf 300 Seiten nur in die Länge gezogen
und nur selten direkt beim Namen genannt.
Da steht nicht nur Smith auf verlorenem Posten,
sondern man als Leser direkt mit.

Es war nicht direkt eine Zeitverschwendung.
Belles Problem war sogar sehr bewegend und das Paar so leiden zu sehen, tat mir unglaublich weh.
Zumal ich die Zwei sehr gerne mag,
und sie aktuell nur ein Schatten ihrer Selbst sind.
Wobei das Ende mich dann doch wieder auf den 12. Teil und der Fortsetzung hier hoffen ließ ...

Mein Fazit:
Eine sehr schwermütige Fortsetzung.
Ergreifend, aber ebenso auch wieder eine müßige Verlängerung der Reihe …

3 Sterne
Profile Image for Amanda.
714 reviews22 followers
December 14, 2020
ARC Review:: I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book

This book gave me some major feels (sad) and if you don't feel the same way, then I don't know what to tell you about yourself! Ha. I really enjoy when characters don't have eyes for anyone else. Smith absolutely LOVES Belle. But, their relationship hit some rocks due to circumstances out of their control in their original books and in this book on a similar level- they still can't get a break. It is a very real and relatable situation that your heart just breaks for them but relates to them. Belle is lost within herself and Smith feels at a loss for what to do to help. UGH it just made me so sadddddd!

I have so many ideas as to what might be happening but knowing me, I'll be totally off base. I just can't wait until Smith and Belle finally have their happy ending. AND, Edward! Can't wait to get more of him. Wish he had his own story (maaaaybe!??!) because he also deserves EVERYTHING!

I absolutely love the Royals books and loved being back in that world again! Such a guilty pleasure.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
December 14, 2020
Breathe Me is a breathtaking story with realistic tones that ordinary people in real life go through, only with a tad more beauty the way Geneve Lee penned it. Smith & Belle were positive they were finally moving on with their happily ever after, as they were happy & expecting a baby. They've gone to the country estate to renovate & wait on their two becoming three, but there are new outside forces throwing their world into chaos, while the personal things happening were a challenge in themselves so that happily ever after is once again, a bumpy ride. Every new parent knows how challenging it can be with that first baby, and Smith & Belle were no exception which is something that I loved because Ms. Lee really wrote it so realistically I found myself feeling so much more emotion when it came to their struggles. Breathe Me was a story that had me on the edge of my seat, emotions running amok, and couldn't put it down for anything until every last page was finished, with a huge kicker of dying inside from that cliffy! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL! 
Profile Image for whatjtreads.
1,223 reviews2 followers
December 25, 2020
Breathe Me is the 4th book in the Royals saga by Geneva Lee, focusing on Smith and Belle. I really enjoyed seeing this domestic side of Smith and Belle, and reading about their transition to family life. After leaving London and moving to the countryside, it seems that Belle and Smith did not leave behind the drama or the intrigue. There are bones in the cellar of their new country home, sealed files about the estate, and the people of the town are suspicious that there are people living at Thornham again.

Geneva Lee's writing really shines here, and though this book sets up a lot of action for the 5th and final book, Break Me, I appreciate the glimpse into Smith and Belle's thoughts. Not all is domestic bliss, and Lee shows us how Smith and Belle has changed since they first met.The happy arrival of their baby is marred by a questionable baby shower gift, and the transition from wedded bliss to newborn showcases how difficult parenting can be. A lot of this book revolves around the inner thoughts of the characters, which reveal their insecurities and give more depth and context to their actions. The book touches upon problems and issues that people deal with in everyday reality: postpartum depression, the sadness and loss after a breakup (Edward), the need for your best friends to center you, and the evolving stages of your relationship as you go through life. Belle struggles with taking a step back from her business, being a new mom, and feelings of inadequacy. She also struggles with feeling connected to Smith again, especially with the changes to her body. Smith for his part knows there's a threat to his family, so he has to be diligent, understanding of his wife, and protective of her but careful not to push Belle away. This installment was great to show how even when there's a happy ending, there can be uneasiness in the transition to domesticity, which is perfectly acceptable. There are so many mysteries to reveal for the next book, especially with the estate and that cliffhanger!

4.5/5
Profile Image for Uhura.
2 reviews
December 17, 2020
Breathe Me is the latest installment of Geneva Lee’s “The Royals” series, which started with “Conquer Me”. This is a continuation of the Spinoff from “Command Me” With Belle and Smith. Their story is one with intrigue and not only facing past demons but their struggles of what love IS and should be for themselves. It also speaks to how even when a chapter ends and on the quest for “Happily Ever After”, there is STILL a struggle.

If you are Geneva Lee reader, you are aware of her characters being relatable and imperfect and as real as a reflection of yourself or someone you know. She is also the Queen of Cliffhangers...but it’s never disappointing though-it’s more of an anticipation...hence this being the 11th (YES the 11th!!!) book in this series. The Characters are enjoyable and agin, tacking REAL issues along with a twist of mystery and of course-toe curling sex.

But I digress-if you want to journey into the Royal World, I suggest not only reading this book, but checking out “The Royals” series in order to FULLY appreciate this latest installment of the series.
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,258 reviews3 followers
December 18, 2020
Smith and Belle have been my favorite characters in the Royals series and I am happy to have this chance to return to them. In this book we get Smith and Belle trying to find their footing in the country while awaiting and then becoming new parents. The pair start out as their typical selves but after a gruesome discovery in their new home and then postpartum depression after the birth of their daughter Penny, they find themselves struggling. They are also trying to reconcile themselves from the events that occurred in Consume Me.

This book moved along well and I was hooked on their story. I enjoyed catching up with the characters from the previous books in the Royal's series - especially Edward and how he was dealing with the aftermath of the death and deception by his husband David. There are still secrets that need to be revealed and other issues that need to be resolved between Belle and Smith and I look forward to seeing what will happen next with this pair and pray that they find their way back to each other.
15 reviews
December 23, 2020
Real. Breath taking while heart wrenching.

I've tried to articulate this review over and over, but still come up short. Geneva Lee is one in a million when it comes to writing real life moments. There is no sugar coating, no easy, happy go lucky roads to love. Breathe Me will leave you gasping for more of the raw emotion that drips from each page.

There are milestones that most women look forward too. Breathe Me explores the darkness that some go through after giving birth. Geneva articulates each moment with such clarity that you cannot help but get drawn into Belle's heartache and uncertainty. You feel each emotion so vividly.

Smith is a proud dad who is protective and loving. He goes through a new emotion that he has never experienced with his wife – uncertainty. His alpha nature must adapt to the new -disconnect- that he feels with Belle. It is just as capturing to read the male perspective, of the shadows that encroach on those that are in a relationship with someone who has ppd. Finding the balance, support and understanding can feel like you are walking on a tight rope, but Geneva expresses each nuance, beautifully.

An author that can pull their readers into a story with such clarity to each emotion and encounter, deserves the title New York Times, USA Today, and International Bestselling Author. Geneva has a special gift to reach her readers, because the characters could be you or me. Breathe Me is my 2020 Best Read!
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
569 reviews
December 19, 2020
Breathe Me is the 11th book in the Royals Saga Series, and it's also the first book of a duet, the second book (12th in the series) Break Me coming out next month (Jan 2021). In true Geneva Lee fashion, this book does have a cliffhanger of sorts. The summary of this book is a little deceiving. Breathe Me is more about the birth of Smith and Belle's first child and deals with some hard to discuss topics like post-partum. The seeds of sinister elements are planted here and there, and those tidbits will keep you on the edge of your seat, begging to know more. Once again in this author's true fashion, she is weaving her web of lies and secrets to lure the reader in. When the sexy times happened they were on point. The supporting characters, with the exception of the ones you already know and love, are an interesting group and I'm curious to see how they play into all of this. Is this sinister element something new that we haven't encountered before or is it related to tragedies that these characters and their social circle have previously faced?
Profile Image for Bookish Lauren.
Author 1 book179 followers
December 13, 2020
It was such a treat to get some new material on this couple. Belle and Smith are super sexy and will melt your socks off.

This duet picks up after lots of harrowing events with their royal friends. Our couple decides to move to an estate out in the country, away from the hustle and bustle of London. They weren't prepared for what they'd find while renovating their centuries-old purchase.

Around every corner is a mystery. But Lee also brings the heavy topic of postpartum depression to the forefront, something that is very real for many new mothers. Between both mystery, and mental illness, they start to question their move with a brand new baby girl.

Something different when reading about married couples is portraying very real struggles that come with that union and making a family. Roller-coaster of emotions on each end. It tugs at your heartstrings.

I can't wait for Break Me because.... CRAZY CLIFFHANGER!

Also, I loved seeing more of the Royals family and kids.
58 reviews
December 20, 2020
Ahhh.... Geneva delivers a book with intrigue, suspense, sadness, and her superb writing. We also have the hot AF sexy scenes with Smith and Belle. Man, Smith does love his Belle, and vice versa.

But not everything is roses and sunshine. Belle is missing Clara, and Edward is still grieving the David situation, and not speaking to X or Clara.

Smith and Belle are renovating the country estate they bought, and have become new parents. Belle is struggling with postpartum depression, and Smith is dealing with the secrets that have been discovered in the house, and what the discovery means for his family.

As always, Ms. Lee weaves her splendid writing skills into a web of mystery and leaves us on the edge of our seats, not knowing what is going to happen next. But knowing something will happen.

And that cliffhanger? Arrrggghhh! Cant wait for Break Me!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kaz.
107 reviews2 followers
December 22, 2020
Smith and Belle are back, better than ever

Breathe Me is the latest instalment in Geneva Lee’s The Royals Saga, and it brings us back to Belle and Smith. It is recommended you read the previous books in this series first if you are new to this author as it will enhance this story for you.

Moving to a country estate, Belle and Smith to try to put their past behind them but is that even possible? In true Geneva Lee style, this book takes these characters through more turmoil than any couple should endure, and it almost breaks them apart. Will they be able to find their way back to each other? You need to read it to find out.

It is always hard to write a review to say how much I loved one of Geneva Lee's books without spoilers . This book is packed with suspense, heartache, love, humour and all the emotions, and of course the cliffhanger ending we have come to expect, and love from these books.

I highly recommend this book.

114 reviews3 followers
December 23, 2020
Geneva Lee has returned us to the world of the Royals. And while some of our characters are finally getting their HEA, things are not quite perfect for Belle and Smith.
Breathe Me is a beautiful and heartbreaking journey into new parenthood and the complexities having a child places on a couple. All the twists and turns of navigating the new reality are unpacked, exposed, and laid out for the readers. Lee writes Belle and Smith's struggles with a layer of raw candor that her earlier books hint at, but is fully achieved here. While there are still some of the steaminess we count on with Lee, this book does not shirk away from the struggles the characters have.
The complex story lines, real reactions to parent hood, and favorite characters returning make this a quick and fun read. A snack until the next act with Break Me.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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