The breathtaking conclusion of the Smoke & Mirrors Duology. A beautiful, defiant princess. A renowned, sinfully gorgeous Hollywood actor. A love affair that is sure to rock the British Monarchy...and the world. Their love affair began intensely and passionately. Princess Adeline and Josh Jameson knew any future together was impossible-her status as a princess and his standing as a Hollywood heartthrob dictated that. But the heights of pleasure they could take each other to were wildly unanticipated by them both. Josh's absolute disregard for Adeline's status quickly drew her into his hedonistic world. And her perfectly worn mask and false façade captivated Josh to the point of obsession. The boundaries became blurred. The physical became emotional. Their hearts became entwined. But a cruel turn of events rips their worlds apart and Adeline is more bound than ever by the protocol and expectations her title commands. The army of royal advisors who guard the secrets and scandals of the Monarchy will go to unthinkable lengths to keep the smoke and mirrors in place...and Josh away from Adeline. She knows the power she possesses comes with agonizing sacrifices. Walking away from Josh devastates her...but it keeps him safe from the corrupt institution that has ruled her life. Yet Josh refuses to lose the woman who has consumed him so completely, distorted his boundaries, and stripped him of all sensibility. Will the power of the British Monarchy triumph? Or will their fierce love for each other change the course of history?
#1 New York Times & Sunday Times Bestselling Author Jodi Ellen Malpas was born and raised in England, where she lives with her husband, her boys, and Theo the Doberman.
Writing powerful love stories with fierce, memorable characters is her passion – a passion that has taken her on an amazing journey into the world of romantic fiction. Her work is now published in more than twenty-six languages across the world.
Heavy lies the head that wears the Crown And the embellished gems are all broken hearts and dreams that are on ugly display, for the world to ogle.
The book deserves 6 stars at the very least ( I'd give 10 if permissible) and Queen Jodi has proved yet again, why she's on top of the author heirchy. You can feel that this book is written from her heart. One can safely assume, the process has been exacting and toilsome for her. We applaud your bravery and courage Queen Jodi. Take a bow!
The richness & opulence of this story had me agog. What a long journey from Jesse to Joshua Jameson. And for her critics, from Ava to Adeline. She's Onwards & Upwards in her themes, narration and plotting. She's fast moving to complex storylines, skipping the normal cookie cutter framework, colouring outside the lines and she deserves a special accolade for giving us strong heroine with spine of steel who is not afraid of standing on her own without being propped by a strong alpha, even though the said alpha comes with talented hands, and tongue and a charming smirk. Totally swooning on Josh here !!😍😍**wolfwhistle** My heart has been kick-started, ready to do what I was destined to do. Fight. Rule. Reign.
Ever since this duet started, Princess Adeline Catherine Luisa Lockheart has simply stolen my heart. She's the Controversial Princess stuck in her Golden Cage. Her blue blood has been a shackle that has chained her to the throne. Contrary to every girl child's wish, I wouldn't wish such a restrained lifestyle on any free spirited girl growing up amidst all the lies and secrecy. All in the name of preservation of Monarchy! Smokes & Mirrors is their Royal Shield “My entire life is dreadful, Kim. So the dress matches, yes? Suffocating, compliant, covering all my sins. I would say it is perfect.”
Age old traditions and customs, which were put in place for bygone era hold little mettle in the new millennium. Something's gotta give !!! So it befalls on Adeline slender shoulders the mammoth task of modernising the Royal Kingdom. The cost is ginormous and unacceptable to her so she changes the rules of the Game Of Thrones! Her American Boy Josh Jameson had only to ask, “Are you ready to get into trouble with me?” And Adeline loses her glass slipper! We are fire and passion and assertive and violent. But we are also love, with its many facets and complexities. And right now, that love is bringing us peace. Rest from the storm. Quiet within the chaos. But By Golly, did they anticipate the troubles they've had to encounter just trying to be together. The entire Royal Kingdom, the servants, the staff is against it. Her hand is being forced to choose an appropriate husband who'd stand next to her as the king and a lowly American commoner is simply out of the question. She's divided between the two worlds and her sense of duty at full fledged war with her desires “You can be your country’s Queen, baby,” he whispers, his eyes glassy, “or you can be my queen.” He steps back. “You can’t be both.”
Major ugly cry happened at this point. I could understand her dilemma and wanted to hug her, but you can't touch the queen! Oh, what a lonely and cold existence for the Queen!! Jodi surpasses herself in this part 2 of the Duology in terms of angst factor, heartache, steaming sex, boiling passions and compassion. Compassion for the women who reside in these palaces. Princesses, queens, queens in waiting. The pressures they have to face to smile when their hearts are weeping, to produce heirs, endure unfaithfulness and cheating by their spouses, ignore their hearts' callings and the ultimate- marry for strength rather than love. No one in this family has ever operated on other people’s happiness. No one has ever made moves with that at the forefront of their minds. It’s always protocol and tradition first. Happiness is at the bottom of the list of priorities.
All this has been so poignantly penned in detail by Jodi. Whenever I read Adeline speaking I did so in Jodi's voice. She's quite proper and posh herself and her graceful personality is what I envisioned Adeline to have ❤. The writing itself is very proper and stylish. The mood is prim and stiff, as is expected. You can feel the suffocating snootiness and stubborn snobbery of the characters. The characters evoke sympathy & pity at times and some just deserve to be quartered and drawn!! Eddie is one character I would love for to have his own book. His demons are clawing at him. His frustration and abandonment in the face of toxic truths are poisoning hi entire being. I can feel him clawing at his mind till he bleeds he needs me to hold him up, he clings on, a lost little boy trying to navigate the cruel blows that have been thrown his way. “I don’t want to feel this way anymore, Addy,” he croaks into my neck, burying himself deeply to hide. “The bitterness, the hurt, I can’t stand it anymore.” I so wanted to hold him tight and whisper -" everything will be alright, just let it go Edward😢 As much as I've enjoyed reading it, I'm hating the fact that it's over. I'll miss the Warped Lockharts. I'll miss the King of Cocky Joshua Jameson. I'll miss Adeline in her Spanish Tiara, but most of all I'll miss Major Davenport. He's the tragic figure. Man in the wings, bound by his servitude.His heart holds most secrets and sentiments, which I truely wish are unleashed in the next book, if Jodi ever decides to write. That man needs closure and peace with his truths. You all MUST MUST MUST pick up this Duet and read 6 "MQ" STARS #BookBistroBlogApproved Follow us on : FB - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB... Blog -https://bookbistroblogcom.wordpress.com Blog -https://bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/BookBistro Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
His True Queen (Smoke & Mirrors Duet #2) By Jodi Ellen Malpas 5 +++ Thumbs Up Stars
This duet literally sucked me dry! I picked up His True Queen after finishing The Controversial Princess (Smoke & Mirrors Duet #1) with out taking a break. The need to find out how this truly wonderful story would pan out had me unable to process anything going on in the real world!
Two people who were so in tuned with each other and totally in love with each other, surly deserved to live happily ever after, right???
One doesn’t clear smoke and mirrors, darling. One preserves them.
Staying true to herself for being loyal to her family, Adeline longs to have her cake and eat it to. Although her family history is full of lies, hidden by the smoke raising up from them, they are after all, her family.
If. Such a little word with such a big meaning.
I mean if we really look at life, what does the two middle letters spell? IF…. If only she wouldn’t have met Josh at her 30th Birthday Party. If her life wasn’t full of Lies. If the Monarchy would understand that times change and so should the rules that were set way back in time. If she Marries who the family says she should marry. If, If, If….
Slowly unraveling the story, one photo and one video at a time, its when actually looking at the photos that it becomes apparent that it is time to stand up and put the pieces of the puzzle together. Pieces that become easy to place now that the smoke and mirrors are hidden.
God save the Fuckin Queen.
I absolutely LOVED this duet! Jodi gave us a strong female character that was full of wit, love, and a back bone that would stand up for her country and do what was right! Not her fault that she fell in love with the American Boy!!
One of the most anticipated books this summer! The American Boy and His True Queen...
I truly enjoyed the book. Malpas' book characters usually ooze passion and abandonment and the characters of this duology are not an exception. Lies, mistakes, betrayals. The British Monarchy behind smoke and mirrors. It is not easy to be a Queen.
Adeline has to fight -for her decisions -for her broken family -against an arranged marriage -against people who don't take her seriously -against enemies and schemers -against traditions and unwritten laws
I am trapped in a never-ending tunnel of echoed well wishes. I am little more than a robot as I smile at every face before me, letting Haydon lead me around the room, showcasing his trophy. Every so often, he sweeps his arm out toward me, like . . . just look at her. In my mind’s eye, I see journalists across the world working through the night to get the news to the people. I see pictures of Haydon and me in this very moment, the happily engaged couple. I see me wandering aimlessly down the aisle of Westminster Abbey ready to sign my eternal love over to a man. The wrong man.
Josh is perfect for Adeline. The perfect possessive Alpha male who knows what he wants and what is best for Adeline. And he fights for her all the way.
“And there is nothing your people can do to keep me away.” He’s fighting to keep his temper in check.
I loved the twist in the end that showed how clever and resourceful Adeline is. And of course there is a happy ending. All wonderful fairy tales have happy endings :)
And of course the story of Adeline and Josh is a wonderful fairytale.
“Hello, beautiful.” I let out a ragged sob and throw my seated body forward, grabbing him and burying my face into his neck. The noise around me disappears. Right now, there is only Josh.
*****FOUR STARS***** {ARC Generously Provided by Author}
No one has ever looked at me the way Josh looks at me. Not with this much fire in their eyes. No one has taken so much time to really see me. Not like they want to devour me and box me up all at the same time. And no one has ever gone to such great lengths and taken such risks just to be with me.
In the conclusion of the ”Smoke & Mirrors” duet, tragedy and family secrets have thrust Adeline into a position she never wanted. She has become the Queen of England. Her duties as the new Ruler make a relationship with Josh impossible. She tries to sever ties to him, but Josh is determined to hang on to the woman he loves.
While Adeline struggles with her new title, it’s the matters of the heart that she’s having a harder time dealing with. She soon realizes that there is no way she can erase Josh from her life, but to be with him would be considered scandalous and so she tries to get Josh to agree to keep their relationship a secret. Josh is too stubborn and doesn’t want to hide his feelings for her and is not willing to be Adeline’s dirty little secret.
The two engage in one crazy rollercoaster of a romance. They burn hot one second and in the next, they’re engaging in knock down drag out fights. And seeing as they are high profile celebrities they don’t seem to know what the word discretion means. They took so many stupid risks to be with each other that it was amazing that they weren't caught early on.
The cards are stacked against them. Not only do they have to deal with the traditional customs of the Monarchy, but there are people with their own agendas who are out to tear the couple apart. Will Josh and Adeline be able to beat the insurmountable odds?
It took me a while to warm up to the story, but once I got nearly halfway through, I found that I couldn't put this book down. I had to find out how it all would turn out for Josh and Adeline.
Here are my overall ratings
Hero:4 Heroine:4 Plot:4 Angst:4 Steam:5 Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine:4
4.5 Stars! (ARC provided by EverAfter Romance & Social Butterfly PR)
-Appreciating anything in my world is dangerous. It means you're attached. It means you can hurt when they try to take it away from you.
In the midst of tragedy Princess Adeline Lockhart is torn between duty and love. She has fallen hopelessly in love with her American boy Josh Jameson, and now she feels she has to somehow disregard her own feelings, and put the well being of her country first. Her destiny has been written, and sacrifices must be made. As Queen all responsibilities have now fallen on her. She can no longer be rebellious and reckless. She must put her family and the British Monarchy first. This means her love story with Josh must come to an end. In order to be Queen she has to abandon her heart. The world is watching her every move, and as a Hollywood actor, they would rip Josh apart. She can’t live for her own selfish needs, and has to let him go before they ruin him.
Josh has found the woman of his dreams, and won’t so easily be cast aside. He’s determined to be with Adeline, and won’t give up. He refuses to walk away from the best thing that’s ever happened to him. He doesn’t care about Adeline’s title or stays. He just loves her and wants her any way he can have her.
This was an amazing conclusion to the Smoke & Mirrors duet. A beautiful, forbidden love story that rocks the British Monarchy. As Adeline tries to figure out who she can trust, advisers continue to try and keep them apart. Boundaries are blurred and their future together seems impossible. Will true love win the the end? I adored this royal romance full of emotion and passion! Just fantastic!
This was just an ok conclusion for me. Honestly, the book kind of dragged for me, but in all fairness I was distracted with my visit from my Grandson! I did find the book to be repetitive and not a lot happened until the end when there were some reveals that came to light.
All in all, it was a great duet but the second book wasn’t as exciting as the first instalment!
4'25 🌟 Me ha gustado muchísimo esta novela. Ha sido una delicia sumergirme en la historia de Josh y Adeline, es una pareja con mucha fuerza y que se complementa de maravilla. Ella es una protagonista muy sincera y su rebeldía ante la perfección de su familia, me ha tenido muy enganchada porque estaba deseando saber que haría a continuación. Este segundo libro esconde grandes secretos, los cuales me han dejado con la boca abierta y por eso, ha sido una lectura que me ha durado nada. Los capítulos finales me han encantado, de verdad que no me los esperaba así 😍 Y el final es para morirse de amor 💗 Jodi Ellen Malpas es una autora que logra a la perfección tener atrapado al lector, gracias a que crea historias llenas de amor, mucha pasión y una porción de acción.
"Mi Única Reina" es la segunda parte de la bilogía "La Princesa Rebelde". Es la historia de dos personas que tendrán que enfrentarse a sus mundos para lograr alcanzar el final feliz que los latidos de sus corazones les marcan cada vez que sus miradas se cruzan. Una novela apasionante, sensual, bonita, original y con giros inesperados. Una lectura ligera e intensa a la vez, ¡os encantará!
Intrigue, duty, fate, love, passion and destiny collide in this engaging royal romance. The concept of this duet was original and I loved the author’s fresh take on it as well as the whole story development and character dynamics. I enjoyed seeing Princess Adeline and American actor Josh Jameson falling for each other for who they truly are and not their fame. Josh was so sweet and never gave up on what he truly wanted. Adeline was also a strong female character, which was refreshing. I liked that she wasn’t weak, she was loyal to her friends and family and she wasn’t afraid to speak up when it was needed. They had great chemistry, hot banter but what I loved most about their relationship was that they made each other feel like normal human beings and that was very sweet to see. Things flowed really easily in this book and I was sad when it ended. I'm so glad I read it and loved it! A really pleasant, fun, hot read!
After the explosive ending in The Controversial Princess, I wasted no time in diving into His True Queen to see how things played out for Adeline and Josh.
This whole institution has been built on immorality.”
If you love a forbidden romance, a leading lady full of fight and fire, an alpha man who isn’t too overbearing and wears his heart on his sleeve, and what I perceived as some very lovely subtle pokes at The Firm, then this series will be right up your street. Yes it was little drawn-out in places and the first book had the edge for me but with plenty of secrecy, romance, humour courtesy of Adeline‘s head of security and drama—because when the proverbial hits the fan, it flies in the most gratifying of ways—it was still a great finale.
We’re in love. And when two people are in love, they do what it takes to be together.”
Queen Jodi is reigning supreme this year! The drama. The angst. The complexity of the plot. I was on the edge of my seat the entire read! This duet is sheer and utter perfection!
Here’s what you need to know: The beginning is so emotional. It sets up the action of the book superbly. Adeline and Josh’s struggle is so poignant. The middle of the book will keep you guessing, wondering what on earth can happen next. It’s so delicious!! And the end…GAH, the end! Totally unexpected.
What I loved: For starters, the sexy, hot, and possessive alpha. That’s sort of my kryptonite and one of the main reasons why JEM is an auto-buy author. Her male leads are the men you dream about. So hardcore alpha and completely obsessed with the women they love.
“You’re the beginning and end of everything.”
Josh Jameson is exactly that. He puts the A in alpha-male. Adeline is one of my all-time favorite characters. She’s fiercely independent, sassy, impulsive, but also caring and feels so much.
“Empathetic, zealous, and real.”
She’s such a paradox. A Queen who is submissive to no one, but her man. This dynamic was SO much fun to witness. I could not get enough.
The plot twists, secrets, and unconditional faith exhibited gave me so much pleasure. The writing is superb! The pace was spot on. Typically, longer romances feel overdone and repetitive which weighs down the plot and pace. That did not happen here. It’s an expertly crafted work of art. I had only 1 ticky little nit-picky issue. In the grand scheme of things, it didn’t affect how I felt about the book.
In case you’re wondering….I LOVED IT. Highly recommended!
Holy moly was this good! I hated how Adeline was treated in book one. She wasn't royal enough, meaning she wasn't an obedient robot. Because of this she was treated as if she was beneath everyones shoes. Sadly, most of her family were the culprits. To the people, she was the most real and the most loved.
As much as Adeline didn't want to become Queen, she excelled at it. I loved that she didn't bow down. She fought for what she believed even if she had to fight over and over. Her relationship with Josh was even more impossible and yet she still fought. I enjoyed how when she put a few of those judgmental people in their places.
I loved Josh. For how much he was restricted, he still came off as the alpha male he was. He fought just enough if not more for him and Adeline. I loved it.
Once again, the ending was not at all what I thought would happen but it was a beautiful ending all the same.
I love Hollywood. 🎬 I love London. ️👑 So together? It was a freaking HOT story! 🔥(with a British accent 😂)
This is a forbidden love story between an English princess and an American Hollywood actor. They both know their love is not possible, but they cannot stay apart.
“To the world you are the Queen of England. But to me, you are everything.”
If you read the first book, you know that Adeline was left in a bit of a pickle...or so it would seem. But I had no worries that Josh would still be on the same page as he was before. My only shock was he was shocked that things would be different!
Adeline takes her new role very seriously and I was very impressed by her but I think the whole murder mystery plot overrode the love story. I was also disappointed in some of Josh's behaviors. You would think by this time, he would have more of a grasp on her situation.
It was interesting to read about all the ghosts in the various closets...what a cluster for sure! And when it finally came out who the villain was behind this, I wasn't surprised. I was only surprised by their "assistant".
The last part of the book was the best for me. I loved how Josh handled things and that we finally got the love story we desperately needed. I'm just not sure what Adeline did was realistic.
Overall, I enjoyed the duet. Jodi Ellen Malpas knows how to write some really great Alphas and some very strong females. If you want a little spin on the British Monarchy, don't let this one pass you by!
Title: His True Queen (Smoke & Mirrors, #2) Author: Jodi Ellen Malpas Genre: Contemporary Romance, Erotic
Jodi's books always leaves me feeling shattered. From her very first book This Man to her latest, His true Queen, Jodi Ellen Malpas has cemented the fact that she is the Queen of Romance!
If you have read my review on The Controversial Princess, you will know that I was waiting for this book with baited breath... 2 long months of re-reading book 1 of the Smoke & Mirrors duet, torturing my soul. I can sigh with relief now... His True Queen is spectacular!
His True Queen was nothing like I thought it would be... Brace yourself for one heck of a ride! As I write this, my fingers are itching to spill everything! From the sheer frustration, the unbelievable angst..oh my lord, the angst! The chemistry and love between Adeline and Josh is something we all dream about having..
The weight of the crown and Adeline and Josh's love is a constant battle. The push and pull of lies and secrets of the family, the responsibility of being under the limelight..Adeline and Josh's story creates a love story we all crave to read about: Forbidden, turbulent, frustrating, infuriating, heartbreaking and filled with so much love that it leaves you stunned and breathless.
I've said it before and I'll say it again, Jodi has a knack for writing some amazing secondary characters. Damon, Her bodyguard/driver is ever faithful, loyal and a strong shoulder to cry on..I love Damon!
Adeline and Josh's relationship feels almost impossible with so much hurdles and shadows of never ending troubles.. but the quest between duty and love makes for an amazing read.
I am so happy with this duet! Jodi Ellen Malpas is truly an amazing writer and I can't wait to see what she plans on writing next. I hope you get to read this series because I highly recommend it. For more ... www.jemimajamir.com
His True Queen was one of my most highly anticipated sequels of this year and OOOOH MY GOD did it blow all of my expectations to smithereens. This follow up was everything I never could've possibly predicted, a sequel full of sweet romance, royally delicious drama, jaw dropping scandal, and heart wrenching impossibility. And it's all illustrated so vividly through what, I swear, is Jodi Ellen Malpas' most stunning writing to date.
This is not a book you can easily devour in one sitting. This is a loooooong sequel that I curled up with all weekend long. But don't mistake me. There's no lulls in this royal romance. Malpas guarantees that every single page of this book is jam packed with mouthwatering sensuality, stunning revelations and heart stopping romance. I was just as captivated by Adeline Lockhart's struggle with acclimating into her new role as I was by her romance with Josh Jameson. This is truly a forbidden romance of royal proportions. The scheming and plotting and the deception these characters must commit as they feed their need to be together in secret is just... I have no words. It's delicious. It's sinful. It's often sacrilegious which also makes it rife with humor. But this is more than just a love story. It's one of tradition and obligation, one of duty and servitude. It's a story of family secrets and deceit, a story filled with betrayal and pulse pounding twists. This intoxicating duet follows an impossibly forbidden romance between a lowly American actor and his true queen but it's filled with unrelenting drama and seemingly insurmountable obstacles at every turn and it all makes for an absolutely unputdownable, unforgettable read.
I never saw this book coming. As completely blown away as I was by The Controversial Princess, as hungry as I was for this sequel, my expectations didn't hold a candle to what Jodi Ellen Malpas had in store with His True Queen. This duet is extraordinary. It's completely unpredictable. It's angsty and funny, heartbreaking and infuriating. In the moments where I was forced to step away from it, my stomach was left in knots. I was completely consumed with Josh and Adeline's story and I couldn't wait to dive right back in just to see what would happen next.
Jodi Ellen Malpas' meticulous crafting of this story has left my chin on the floor. When I think back on all of it, on where Josh and Adeline began versus where they end up, when I consider the character development and the world building and the brilliance of this fierce attraction set against the backdrop of the British monarchy, I am left STUNNED. I'm still sitting here shaking my head over all that I went through in this series, all the secrets that were unearthed. Decades of smoke and mirrors come crashing down at the hands of a fiery princess who refuses to follow tradition in the face of love and what transpires, what Jodi Ellen Malpas creates with her brilliant storytelling and lush writing on these pages, is nothing short of BREATHTAKING.
Oh my word….this picked up right where book 1 ended and let's say that it was a rollercoaster that had me wanting to jump off!!!
I thought Josh Jameson was pretty hot and intense in The Controversial Princess, well this American Man made sure that everyone knew who he was and that there was no way in hell that anyone would keep him from "His True Queen."
I felt for Josh and Princess Adeline because it honestly seemed that there was no way for them to have their happily ever after.
Talk about lies, deceit, secrets and revenge.....now that is some family drama there. I was hooked from the beginning because I just had to know: who, what, where, why, how and would they.
Josh & Princess Adeline's story proved that no matter how much people are against you, love will always prevail in the end. Be ready for a ride that will have you wanting to kick some "arse" but just hang on because in the end when the secrets are revealed, love eventually wins! Kara~5 Stars
The first part of the Smoke and Mirrors duology, The Controversial Princess was phenomenal, so I was excited to see where His True Queen would take us..
His True Queen picks up where The Controversial Princess left off. Princess Adeline has been informed that she is next in line to succession and will become Queen, Josh has been warned to stay away by the people that help maintain the perfect facade of the Royal family and staff members have been warned and sworn to silence. A lie has been told about Edward to explain the change in succession and address why Princess Adeline will soon become Queen and no one is coping well with this turn of events!
The smoke and mirrors are in place to maintain the facade of the perfect Royal family.
Adeline watches life as she knew it crumble before her eyes and the only time that she feels remotely like herself is with Josh, who is unwilling to give up the woman he loves to the country she must reign.
His True Queen is still sexy, and intense but it is far more emotional as we see Adeline struggle with being faced with her choice, Crown and Country or Josh and true love.
Jodi writes in a way that always feels like it flows seamlessly. Her books are about passion and love and she captures those intimate moments and the love flawlessly with His True Queen. There is depth and tension delivered at a fast pace, with plenty happening and surprises and stresses coming from all directions.
This is not an easy, breezy romance. It is raw and emotional . There are surprises and shocks along the way and you can feel Adeline and Josh’s desperation.
There is so much happening in His True Queen and Jodi melds it together so well. Despite there being a lot of information, it doesn’t feel that way. It was a pleasure to read.
For me this was a 5 star read from the first to the last page. It was every bit as good as The Controversial Princess and then some.
Thanks to Jodi Ellen Malpas and Social Butterfly PR for granting me an ARC copy of His True Queen. Part two of the Smoke and Mirrors Duology. This is my honest review.
I was so looking forward to the conclusion of this Smoke and Mirrors Duet. The ending of The Controversial Princess was so emotional, I was super excited to see how the story would end. This book is not a standalone and one must read book 1 before jumping into this book.
I will say that I loved Adeline and Josh. Their love, frustration, heartache, need and want were palpable. In such a predicament, with anything involving anything Royal, Adeline and Josh are sometimes at odds with each other but their love and passion always overrode those odds. They were meant to be together, it was just their worlds that were causing them heartaches. How can The Queen of England and a hot sexy actor follow their dreams and not the ones dictated by family and tradition? The struggles are real and frustrating for Adeline but her sense of family is strong. The world is riding on her shoulders with all the secrets and lies while Josh is carrying her heart and happiness.
The cast of secondary characters were delightful and then their were those that were sinister. I adored Damon and his care for His Queen. Adeline’s staff also added some humor and concern. And poor Prince Edward.....he was a hot mess. And then there were those who’s interest in the crown and not the actual Queen created turmoil for Adeline. And the Queen Mother, she was not one of my favorites but eventually won me over.
But I will say that I thought the story was strung out slightly. I appreciated the struggles and hardships but the middle felt a little repetitive. So I found that I slightly skimmed in the middle. But in all, I loved Adeline and Josh’s story and I also loved the epilogue.
This is a sweet duet. It has hardships but it is full of love and passion between the American Boy and His True Queen.
*advanced copy provided by Social Butterfly in exchange for an honest review*
This was the best duet I have read in a long time!! Aaaaaand I only read few nookie moments (recently overdosed and am now only skimming nookie), however, those I read were HOT AF!!!
The story was fantastic, the twists unpredictable, the chemistry out of this world, the H was superbly smoldering, possessive and caring. Add into that a KICKASS heroine and I am done for!!!! I have serious book hangovers and I need to rest....
Side note: this is the first book(s) I have ever finished by this author, so color me surprised when I at 10% of the first book found myself dodging my husband and kid just to get some reading done. I am so glad I gave this author another shot.
¡Qué manera de cargarse una historia! Y eso que la resolución de la trama de suspense me ha sorprendido, pues no me esperaba ese culpable, pero si la primera entrega era totalmente inverosímil, esta ya no hay por donde cogerla. Páginas y páginas repletas de los cansinos pensamientos de la protagonista, más escenas hot repetitivas y un final de vergüenza ajena, muy al estilo americano. No sé si repetiré con esta autora.
#Popsugar20 Reto 30: Un libro, ficción o no, sobre un líder mundial
I just adore this duology! Josh and Adeline are sooo perfect for each other. But there's sooo much to overcome until we can ride off into our happily ever after sunset together.
Very sexy, super exciting! Adorable. Sweet. Sad. Heartbreaking. Frustrating.
I loved these books and I so wouldn't mind seeing them on Netflix one day!
“La culpa y la responsabilidad no deberían mandar sobre tu corazón.”
En “Mi única reina” continuamos la historia de la princesa Adeline justo después del final de “Mi amor prohibido”, y si creíamos que el primero tenía situaciones un tanto inverosímiles… y un final increíble, éste lo supera con creces… hasta tiene todos los tintes de peli de Hollywood. Sin embargo, es destacable que nos encontramos una evolución importante en los protagonistas. Adeline se muestra mucho más segura de sí misma, y no espera que te rescaten, poco a poco comienza a creer en sí misma, a demostrar que sí puede hacer lo que todos creen que no, y se convence de que la única que puede decidir en su vida es solo ella.
Esta segunda parte tiene más o menos la misma extensión de páginas que el primero, un poco más de quinientas páginas que, se leen igual de rápidas, ya que la autora mantiene su narrativa sencilla y ágil.
Me gustó el Epílogo, ya que nos ofrece un cambio de perspectiva, y está contado desde la voz de Josh. Creo que este detalle me hubiera gustado en más partes del libro, quizás con capítulos intercambiados entre ellos.
En líneas generales la bilogía atrapa por la originalidad de su trama y entretiene, pero no pasa de allí.
“No permita que las expectativas de los demás monopolicen su felicidad. El mundo es un lugar cambiante y voluble. Y las tradiciones solo siguen siendo tradiciones si nosotros las mantenemos.”
Disfrute total, Joshua Jameson #ElJosh #ElJoshDeLaMalpas, me ha hecho disfrutar lo más grande, qué hombre. Adeline también está estupenda y juntos hacen una pareja estupenda. No me olvido de Damon que es estupendísimo. Ha sido una LC de las que nos gustan y con un prota de los que nos vuelve locas a Mystinox, Sandra y a una servidora. La Malpas sabe lo que nos gusta y nos lo ha dado, y esto es así. Hemos disfrutado mucho, sí señor. Como dice Mysticnox, es un cuento de hadas y hay cosas que no son creíbles, pero hemos disfrutado tantísimo que AWWWW. Sentimos adoración máxima por el Josh porque AYYYY PARRR FAVAR es DIVINO, muy de los nuestros, muy YISUSCRAIST y muy NO SE PUEDE MÁS :)
There's something so satisfying about a sequel that lives up to the original. I'm SO happy this one did. The Controversial Princess is one of my favorite novels of 2018, so I had some pretty high expectations for His True Queen. And thankfully Jodi Ellen Malpas delivered.
This book takes an interesting turn since Adeline is now Queen. That one change snowballs into many, many changes in her life. Her cherished freedom has diminished, while her responsibilities have multiplied But most interestingly is the change in her attitude. The weight of her new role has changed her perspective. While in the last book she was all frustrated rebellion, in this book she's more frustrated acceptance with a dash of determination. Despite the fact that she doesn't actually want to be queen, she DOES want to do a good job. She wants to protect her family, prove her doubters wrong, and make her people proud.
This change in her attitude also makes things a lot more complicated with Josh. Speaking of Josh, that's really the most important part of this story (obviously), and I'm happy to say we get lots of steamy Adeline and Josh time with a healthy dose of angst thrown in for good measure. Once again, I loved these two characters together. I especially enjoyed Josh's determination to be with Adaline no matter what the cost, always with his signature dominance simmering beneath the surface. Hot!
Overall this is another great book from this author, completing an amazing series. Loved it!
My oh my, the tangled web we weave. This book is exceptional and I dont think Jodi could have concluded this story any better than she did. When I finished the previous book I was stunned and speechless. I didnt think the 2nd book could be better but I was wrong. Adeline and Josh are perfect. The dynamic and the chemistry between the two is off the charts. They love each other but will that love survive under the demands and pressure of being queen? The odds are stacked against them and every time they turn a corner more lies and deceit are uncovered. Get ready. His True Queen is full of drama. It has moments where you will laugh, possibly even snort at the quick wit and the southern boys foul mouth. The book is full of fire and sass provided by the lovely Adeline. I definitely recommend that you add this to your library. Read it and dont forget to leave a fabulous review.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
God the drama!!
I was dying for this book after the way the last ended I was left shocked. The craziness that happened had me needing this book. Adeline has had to get her head around a lot and her life has changed so much since the last book. She thought life was hard then it's even worst now. There are so many secrets goin around her head it's hard for her to keep up at times. But she is starting to learn from her mother that there life is "Smoke and Mirrors".
Josh and Adeline's story gets even harder in this book but there love for each other just keeps getting stronger. Even when there apart there connection is strong it's trying to break the connection that's impossible. Josh is determined to get what he wants and if he has to do things that may put there relationship out to the public he will. He pushes Adeline so much but it's what she needs he is what she need. Josh knows her better than anyone and even when he make bold decision she can't help but luv it. My heart does go out to them they are so meant to be together but the world there in its just impossible.
I did enjoy this book I do think the first book was better but again like the first the last 25% had me in the edge of my seat. The twists and turns were brilliant and I have to say I didn't see what was coming. It was just so good I could believe what I was reading. Jodi really kept the twist locked tight. I did find that the story did get a lil boring in the middle there is only so much chasing 2 people can do. So that's where my attention got a lil lot but it did come back at full force thank god. There are a lot of characters that I luvd throughout this book Damon Eddie and Matilda were so great through your the whole duet. I would really luv Eddie to get a book after everything the guy has been through I want to know more about him. Damon is just the most loyal man ever the way he looked after Adeline was just so good. I really like him. I would really luv a book on Matilda as well. She is so funny and seems a lil quirky and the relationship she found I would luv more of that. So I m really hoping for them of them to. Overall I really enjoyed it and would recommend it. I m a big fan of this author and her books she is just brilliant her writing is great and she really knows how to keep you on edge and connect with her characters. I can't wait to see what she does next.
La segunda parte de esta bilogía continúa con una Adeline Lockhart convertida en Reina de la noche a la mañana y un Josh Jameson apartado de la vida de la mujer por la que ahora siente algo muy profundo. Si recordáis mi anterior reseña el primer libro me resultó mitad insoportable y mitad sorpresa agradable y al comenzar la lectura del segundo libro volví al principio. El primer cuarto de la novela es bastante flojo y me aburría, la vida en palacio de Adeline y sus responsabilidades no me inspiraban mucho interés y más cuando ella parece otra vez volver a su antigua yo y no evolucionar y ser más decidida...