A Midwestern Cinderella

A Royal Love Story #2

by Krista Lakes

“I don’t care if you’re not royalty. You’re my princess.”

Zoey is hardly what you’d consider princess material. Born in flyover country, she never learned how to curtsy, let alone walk in high heels. And when she literally trips into the arms of a handsome stranger at her friend’s wedding, she thinks she’s finally found love.

Freddie Prescott is a charming prankster. Despite his carefree attitude, he pursues Zoey with an intensity that shows he can be serious when he needs to be. And with those rock hard abs and rippling biceps, his pursuit of Zoey is a satisfying one. Without realizing it, Zoey finds herself falling in love.

There’s only one problem: Freddie is a prince.

Spending a week without Internet access or phone reception has left Zoey in a weird predicament. He certainly left enough hints that he was rich and famous, but he never outright said it. And when the time comes for him to leave their vacation getaway, he asks her to come with him to the kingdom of Paradisa.

But Zoey can’t use the right fork, put her pinkie up for tea, or any of the things expected of a princess. Plus, there are those in the kingdom who don’t want an American close to the throne. How can she hope to keep Freddie’s love if she’s a stranger to his royal world?

NYT Bestseller Krista Lakes brings you this brand new sweet-and-sexy royal romance. This standalone novel will have you cheering for an American princess’s happily ever after.

Genres: Romance, Royalty

347 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 28, 2020

About the author

Krista Lakes is a writer of romances that leave you feeling good and always have a happily ever after. She has two boys and a husband that keep her busy, not to mention two cats and a dog.

Reviews

[Dora Koutsoukou]

3 👩‍⚕️💘🤴⭐️s❣️

In this sweet romance read, nurse Zoey encountered with Prince Freddie, without having knowledge of his royal status.
They spent a few days together and towards the end of their vacation, Freddie informed Zoey for his title.
A few months forward, she went to his country as to meet his family but also get acquainted with the etiquette of properly behaving and dating a royalty.
What she had to go through was not only out of her norm, she had to change almost everything except her facial appearance. What to wear, how and when, how to address to the royal members, how to socialise, she even had to go on a diet!! A real nightmare!!!

There was a person from Freddie’s environment that was plotting against them and in the end he managed to manipulate Freddie so he would realise that Zoey was the absolute wrong girl for him. The result was no other than their sad and heartless separation.

Although I liked both characters in the beginning, later on, both of them slightly frustrated me. Zoey, for leaving home and trying to be someone else in order to be accepted for who she was supposed to be and Freddie, for allowing to be manipulated and for his change of heart towards Zoey.

The story might have been predictable but it was very well written, had a nice flow, funny scenes and also heartbreaking and it was told by Zoey’s pov.

An enjoyable modern fairytale with a sweet hea ending.

[Anne OK]

Modern day fairytale adaptation delivered on a silver platter. And who doesn’t love a good fairy tale? I loved it even though I didn’t really find much comparison to Cinderella’s story – there’s no evil step-mom or jealous and mean step-sisters – not even a pumpkin that turns into a carriage. And our lovely heroine didn’t lose a glass slipper to be found by a prince either – even being the hazard she is in high-heels (you’ll understand this more after reading this story).

Krista Lakes dazzles as she adds her own twist on the beloved fairytale, along with a trip to Paradisa where a royal scandal and betrayal threaten the crown jewels. The humor is tip-top and the romance enchanting. Even with a whole lotta fun, the relationship also comes with a load of baggage. The chemistry between Zoey and Freddie is instantly recognizable, but when the truth is all revealed, Zoey will have to decide if she can -- or wants to -- fill those high heeled–expectations of a princess after all.

Freddie is such a fun-loving guy – at least when he’s not challenged with the royal expectations set before him by the royal family. At times I was a little disheartened by the fact that he allowed himself to be influenced by others so easily. His behavior towards Zoey made me a little sad at those moments.

Far-fetched at times? Yes, it is. But what do you expect from an adaptation of a fairytale set in a kingdom of dreams. And there you have it. A love story fit for a prince and his princess.

A delightful romance full of heart, joy and charm – and fun-too-read!

[Krista Lakes]

This book took me a long time to write. It's my longest standalone novel at over 91k words. I started this while selling and moving from Colorado to Kansas. I love this world with Paradisa, but my real world was so stressful that it was hard to concentrate on the royal one.
But, I finished!

I hope that you enjoy Freddie and Zoey. I hope that Freddie makes you laugh. I hope that you fall in love.

And don't worry, I'm working on Liam's book next.
I'm thinking she's going to be from Texas...

[Kristi Kopydlowski]

This is the story of Freddie and Zoey. Two people from two very different worlds, who fall in love. But can love conquer all??? Freddie is trying to do right by is family and that is all his family wants. Zoey is trying to be there for Freddie learning everything she can about his world. As we know, that is not always easy. You will laugh, cry and want to bitch slap people; but through it all you will find that sometimes love does conquer all. Krista Lakes did a marvelous job on this story, I loved that it was based in Wisconsin and she brought out a lot of Midwest values. Great job Krista and everyone is sure to love your story.

[Amy Crull]

This book was phenomenal! It showed the good and bad of being royal. You have to be on your game all the time and there's a standard that you have to live by. Freddie knows all about that but it doesn't stop him from having some fun. He's the jokester of the group, the one who is always planning some kind of mischievous thing. Being at yet another wedding, he wasn't planning on meeting anyone but then entered Zoey. She's the best friend of the bride. She's who I connected with the most.. there were lots of similarities between her and me. I mean being from the Midwest and clumsy as hell were the main ones along with my love of Ketchup lol. Zoey was a simple girl in a simple world. She knew what she wanted in life and that changed when she met Freddie. I realize his need for being vague in the beginning but he really didn't help her with anything royal. She was a lost pup with no one other then Sophie to vent to. There was so much thrown at her and Freddie was stuck doing his royal duties. This is when the author shined. She really shown how lonely a person can be and how when you need someone the most, they aren't there for you. This is when my feelings got the best of me and the tears fell. Oh and then there's her clumsiness, she was doing so well and then it came crashing down. This story had so many good times especially at the beginning when her and Freddie was at the Lake house, I laughed so hard at the good times. This was a really good that enjoyed so much!! Zoey and Freddie are a great couple and I need more of them!!!

[Lisa]

Freddie is the third brother in the royal family of Paradisa. He's not required for much beyond staying out of trouble and working his charm in the occasional meeting. He has come to Wisconsin for his college buddies wedding. Enter Zoey the bridesmaid most likely to die by high heals. The pair have instant chemistry with cute and funny banter. I found myself chuckling along with their flirty antics. The story takes a very big turn when Freddie is called back to Paradisa for a more formal role with his brother the King. I grinned along with them the whole first half of the book, and struggled along with them in their dual identity crisis' the entire last half. Being a royal is no picnic. Things always feel the worst before they get better.

This Royal world is drawn very well and populated with vivid charming characters that I was happy to like and some that deserved strong dislike. It was nice to get a small bit of Henry and Aria from the first book. I look forward to the third book with King Liam falling in love.

[Tami Talbert]

A Midwestern Cinderella

OMG! I’m in love with Zoey and Freddie. Their story was absolutely amazing. I couldn’t put my iPad down. The love they felt for each other from the beginning made me believe in a deep and truly unbreakable love. But as their world began to collapse, I was filled with such deep emotion and the depth of Zoey’s heartbreak, I had a hard time reading through my own tears. But through the magic of Krista Lakes’ fantastic story telling genius, the happily ever after I’m always looking for was delivered is spectacular fashion. I’m ready to start Zoey and Freddie’s story over from the beginning. Bravo Ms. Lakes. I can’t wait to read Liam’s story.

[Jennie Fortna]

ARC for honest review with no compensation 4.5 stars

A Midwestern Cinderella is book 2 in the Royal Love Story series by Krista Lakes and another play in the fairytale.

She is a nurse from the Midwest, he’s a prince from Paradisia, who is in the United States to attend a wedding. When they meet the sparks ignite and after spending time together he convinces her to come to his country. But once back in his country someone starts meddling in their lives and their world begins to collapse.

Can these two who are from different worlds find a perfect middle and find their happy ever after? Only time will tell...

[Brenda Moser]

This is an entertaining story with strong characters in Zoey and Freddie. The author does a great job building this insta love story. She brings a bit of drama and tons of emotions and moves the story fluidly with her descriptive and detailed writing. I was hooked from start to finish reading their story and would recommend this book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Heather Cicio]

I loved this book! It's not short but not too long, just right! I loved Zoey and Freddie! I can't walk in high heels either so I definitely understood her. She is funny and Freddie is so sweet! Once she tried to fit into his world, things are not what they seem. Great storyline! Lots of laughs, love and a bit of suspense! Loved it!!!

[Cheryl]

I really enjoyed this book. The first half of Zoey and Freddie had me laughing, the second half had me crying. It was amusing watching Zoey try to become part of the royal family. I received this arc for an honest review.

[Kellyann]

A magical read. Freddie and Zoey are perfect for each other. If you like a great fairy tale this book is for you. Freddie meets Zoey at a wedding and she later finds out that he is royalty. They quickly fall in love. I truly enjoyed reading this book.

[Angie]

I absolutely loved this book. It gave me smiles and angst and all the feels. The beginning helped to establish Freddie's fun and lovable side but also his inner turmoil. This helped A LOT towards the end when things go wrong. Zoey was strong but vulnerable. My heart hurt for her how she felt so out of place and the demand for unreasonable perfectionism. I wasn't sure if Freddie groveled enough but it's all explained and in the end I felt satisfied. This is written from Zoey's perspective only and I think it worked for the added drama. There is a book before it about Freddie's middle brother but in no way did I feel I missed anything.

I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

[Andrea]

Zoey Miller shouldn't be allowed anywhere near high heels! She can barely stand in them, let alone walk down the aisle to stand at her cousin's side, as her bridesmaid. Her troubles with shoes are legendary in the family but, so far, no major injuries, other than her pride. As usual, Zoey is at the wedding without anyone special, but there's an impossibly handsome stranger who manages to find his way to her and takes the seat as her "date." Freddie Prescott is lying low in the United States, having been ordered by his brother, King Liam, to stay away from home until his latest prank has blown over. Zoey is entranced by his beautiful eyes and that full blown smile that makes him look almost deliriously happy. Freddie definitely is happy, and, particularly now that he's met Zoey. She has no idea that he's really Frederick Archibald Charles Aster, Prince of Paradisia, and he wants her to know him only as Freddie. What starts out as a trip to the lake cabin for the two of them, turns into a week and, even then, they can't bring themselves to be apart. He has a conference in Chicago, so they have at least another month before he has to go back to Paradisia. Soon, he's wanted back home to work on some negotiations between the countries of Navia and Paradisia, two nations who are traditional enemies. If he and his fellow negotiator can bring them together, it will be a powerful win-win. Freddie tells Zoey that he wants her to come back with him and meet his family. She never expected this but is more than happy to oblige, but the nerves set in and she's not sure just how his family will, or if they will, welcome her. For Zoey, things got off on the wrong foot when no one was there to meet them at the airport, but she chalked that up to a difference in social norms. She had no idea that those differences would become clear and how her life would have to change to fit into his society. Her first meeting with the Queen Mother went well, until she gave Zoey direct orders not to bring shame on the family in any way, whatever that meant! Freddie hadn't told her anything about what she could expect and she finds out the hard way how to break protocol, and she broke it many times over. I was so unhappy with Freddie and started to wonder if he was more concerned about his negotiations than he was with Zoey. The Duke, who considered himself Freddie's mentor, made Zoey's life miserable by giving her little hints and making insinuations that she didn't measure up to what kind of a Paradisian wife he needed. He was more than thrilled to offer his own daughter, Sophie, as a better match for Freddie. Sophie proved to be a good friend to both Zoey and Freddie and actually became their best ally when necessary. The Duke kept sniping at Zoey about everything she did wrong and he started to get into her head and made her feel woefully inadequate and unprepared for Freddie's family and royal life. At the same time, the Duke was in Freddie's head, questioning Zoey's aptitude and attitude as a wife while he groomed and prepared him for successful negotiations with Navia. Over the span of a few weeks, Zoey and Freddie seem to lose their spark. Freddie becomes detached and, when he lashes out at her for something she didn't do, she's had enough. She follows the advice of the Duke and goes home. What she didn't know was that Freddie was led astray by someone he trusted and the treasonous plan was falling into place. Now, Zoey's gone home and Freddie is devastated. Once he knows the whole truth, he does everything in his power to get her back, but it could be too late! What a twisted and beautiful ending with everyone getting exactly what they had coming. There were times when I thought Freddie had gone a bit too far but, in the end, he completely redeemed himself for me. This is a story with complex, resilient characters that seem so alive, as they pull you right into the  journey toward their HEA. Lovely!

[Terri Eaches]

Can This Midwestern Nurse Make A Prince Feel Like A King ❤❤❤❤❤

Heels will be the death of me!!! That's what goes through Zoey Miller's mind as she tumbles down the aisle at her cousins wedding. Zoey has worked hard to become a nurse leaving her no time for any kind of a social life including dating or basic news. Enter the handsome guy with an accent and fun personality sitting in the empty seat marked "Zoey's date" at the reception table. Freddy is a friend of the groom from their college days and playing rugby together...ahhh he's also a prince from Paradisa. A third son always pulling pranks, felling like he's not needed but never having a chance to just be himself. Zoey doesn't know he's a prince and unknowingly gives Freddy just what needs, a normal life with tacos, hot dogs and even lightening bugs during their week long stay at the cabin. Their bubble of happiness has to end eventually when Freddy confesses the truth. Their relationship continues the next two months while Freddy is in Chicago for a conference in secret and disguise. When Freddy is summoned back home he can't leave the woman he's fallen in love with and invites her to go with him and meet his family. No problem right? The royal family has rules on everything from dress codes, no touching (even a peck in the cheek), to how go hold a spoon, rules, rules and rules, at least until the famous Stair Walk accepting her into the royal family. With Freddy locked up with the Duke deep in negotiations with Navia Zoey is way out of her element with no family or friends except the perfect Sophie teaching her the royal ways and Mr. Irnson the butler. Someone hungry for power is planting seeds of doubt driving a wedge between Freddy and Zoey and like a rubber band pulled tight, something or someone is going to snap. When the breath holding day of the Stair Walk turned to scandal Zoey has had enough when Freddy pushes her away for the last time. What happens when Freddy learns the truth of the ruthlessness someone would go through for power regardless of his own happiness and well-being?? Does be go after Zoey??? Will she cave in and give Freddy another chance?? OMG!!! A MUST READ that will have you smiling in one sentence, laughing in the next, wanting to smack someone and definitely have your heart hurting by the end!! LOVE... LOVE... LOVE It!!! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and happily purchased a copy for my favorites collection. Looking forward to the next book. Maybe one to put a smile on King Liam's face or Sophie getting comfort after everything that happened.

[Sara]

A nurse who shouldn’t wear heels because she’s likely to break her neck meets a handsome prankster who went to school with her friend/cousin’s new husband. Zoey is attracted to Freddie and enjoys hanging out with him at her cousin’s wedding reception. The next day as she’s ready to leave for a two week vacation at her relatives cabin on the lake Freddie is there when her old clunker of a car dies. He offers to drive her the two hours to the cabin she will be staying, which starts the beginning of their romance. The drive turns into dinner, then the suggestion he stay so he doesn’t have to drive back in the dark...she keeps asking him to stay and he has no interest in leaving her and the opportunity to be free and himself....because Freddie is really a prince who is tried of having to follow the rules and getting into trouble with his royal family when he acts up or makes waves in the press.

Freddie is staying in the US for 3 months to lie low and stay somewhat out of the public eye and he uses this time to quietly and privately romance Zoey. When it’s time for him to return to Paradisa, he asks Zoey to come with him and meet his family because he doesn’t want to let her go.

This is when the Midwestern girl faces public situations that she’s not only not prepared for she’s not even given instructions or help from Freddie until she’s already been embarrassed by wearing the wrong style dress to a garden party. The experience she faces in Paradisa tests their relationships for her love for Freddie to the extreme.

I was equally intrigued and frustrated with what Zoey experienced while with Freddie’s family. She was thrown pretty much to the wolves with no prep or guidance and expected to innately be as polished as a princess or a noble who was raised in that environment. At the same time, she didn’t ask many questions or do much research in the couple days before she flew to Freddie’s country. I was happy with the ending, but wish Freddie would have had to do a little more groveling or put forth some effort to win Zoey back. He may be a prince, but he was truly an ass to Zoey for the last few weeks before the Trade Delegation’s Big event and the Stair Walk. The characters were well developed, and the author somewhat balanced the carefree time Freddie and Zoey experienced in the US before they travelled to the much stricter environment of being in the royal family in Paradisa.

I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lynn]

A Midwestern Cinderella by Krista Lakes is one you won’t want to miss.

It’s book #2 in her Cinderella series, set around the fictional land and royals of Paradisa. Ms. Lakes has written a well thought out story with relatable, realistic characters in settings that come to life. This book is further proof of her abilities to weave a story that will pull you in (I have bags under my eyes from staying up way too late reading) and keep you engaged far into the night.

I won’t repeat the storyline here ... Ms. Lake’s synopsis does a terrific job of that ... but I will tell you about the characters.

Zoey Miller is a L.L. Bean gal - a real nature lover who lives life large. She’s true to her self ... and her man (Freddie), even when things get rough. Zoey finds herself in a royal setting with more rules than she knew existed ... she’s learning the ropes thanks to Sophie (please say her book is coming soon....) and is battling a heel nemesis that threatens her relationship with Freddie.

Speaking of him, Freddie Prescott is looking to put his wild ways behind him and bring Zoey into his world .. but he’s underestimated just how different his royal world is for Zoey, all while he’s tackling a new trade deal that will bring benefits to his country and prove to his older brother, the King, that he’s worthy of a senior position.

If you’re looking for a terrific story with realistic characters, download A Midwestern Cinderella now. ... but be prepared to binge read an then snap up other books by the author (The Kisses series is a favorite of mine).

I received an ARC. This is my honest review.

[Narci]

This book is absolutely AMAZING! Zoey Miller is a nurse who goes to her cousins wedding and makes a fool out of herself. Zoey is a sweet, caring, beautiful, hardworking young woman, uncoordinated, horrible with directions and hates to be the center of attention; or stared at. When Zoey is forced to wear high heels at her cousins wedding, chaos erupts. A prince charming Freddie comes to her rescue. Zoey is asked to keep an eye on him when they meet again, and sparks fly. Freddie aka Prince Fredrick Prescott of Paradisa goes to America for a friend’s wedding where he meets a clumsy beautiful Zoey, who does not recognize him. Freddie longs for a real vacation so when Zoey needs help again, he eagerly volunteers to drive her. Both Zoey and Freddie's chemistry are undeniably romantic and perfect, sparks fly. However, when Freddie confesses his identity and convinces her to join him Zoey has a hard time believing she can fit in his Royal world. Zoey does not know proper etiquette or even how-to walk-in heels without injuring herself or others, if she wants to keep her prince she must learn. This story takes you through the struggles that both Zoey and Freddie face, between the heart ache, fears, prejudice, and unseen enemy they must overcome. It is also about absolute love, the kind that is forever and the struggles to reach their happily ever after. This is an amazingly wonderful story about true love, passion, determination, growth, trust, and instincts. I absolutely love this book and will read it again and again.

[Deeply Love Reading Blog]

A Midwestern Cinderella is my first book by Krista Lakes. The blurb of the book caught my interest and the book matches it very well. The book is a singular approach from the female perspective. Zoey and Freddie are a perfect match for each other. They bring out the calm in each other. I enjoyed their journey.

Blurb:
Zoey is hardly what you'd consider princess material. Born in flyover country, she never learned how to curtsy, let alone walk in high heels. And when she literally trips into the arms of a handsome stranger at her friend's wedding, she thinks she's finally found love.
Freddie Prescott is a charming prankster. Despite his carefree attitude, he pursues Zoey with an intensity that shows he can be serious when he needs to be. And with those rock hard abs and rippling biceps, his pursuit of Zoey is a satisfying one. Without realizing it, Zoey finds herself falling in love.
There's only one problem: Freddie is a prince.
Spending a week without Internet access or phone reception has left Zoey in a weird predicament. He certainly left enough hints that he was rich and famous, but he never outright said it. And when the time comes for him to leave their vacation getaway, he asks her to come with him to the kingdom of Paradisa.
But Zoey can't use the right fork, put her pinkie up for tea, or any of the things expected of a princess. Plus, there are those in the kingdom who don't want an American close to the throne. How can she hope to keep Freddie's love if she's a stranger to his royal world?

[Jean]

Zoey is at her cousins wedding when she meets Freddie, they laugh, joke and have instant chemistry and connection between them but Freddie also has a big secret and he doesn't want to loose Zoey so he keeps it to himself but what happens when she eventually finds out. Zoey is going to stay in a cabin and have a break before she goes to work as a nurse but her car decides to not start so Freddie offers to take her and then he stays a while and the more time they spend together the more closer they become but what happens next well you will have to read the book to find out. There are many twists and turns along with secrets, betrayal, danger, heartbreak, hope and emotional and you can feel it all as if you are going through it yourself and you you find yourself praying for them to get there happy ending but it is not all plain sailing. The characters and storyline pulled you in right from the first page and I couldn't put it down and it was so addictive. Krista Lakes is an amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention and I definitely recommend you read this book and others by her and you will definitely not be disappointed.
I Voluntarily Reviewed an Arc Copy of this book.

[Sandass]

Zoey is a small town nurse, leading a small town life in the Midwest. Shes a clutz in high heels like I am. I cringe and balk at the idea of heels. Only because she's in a wedding does she acquiesce to wearing heels.
The heels, the dance, and a prince in attendance put her on track to being targeted to become a princess. Having said that, its not a given that she can waltz her way into the kingdom. Especially since she can't dance any better than she can walk in heels.
Prince Frederick, known as Freddie, learns how to live in the country with Zoey as his guide. When he's called home he takes Zoey with him and the fun life they've had gets flushed down the proverbial ... well, you get the idea.
Whereas I loved Freddie while he was in America, I came to hate him in his home country of Paradisia. I'm not so sure Zoey should have trusted him again after his behavior became outlandish.
So many of Zoey's experiences in Paradisia reminded me of Meghan and Prince Harry's recent experiences in England. If you like them, you need to read this book.
I Voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book

[Luv 2 Read]

I really enjoyed this story by Krista Lakes.
It had really great characters and story line.
When Prince Fredrick
Prescott of Paradisa, comes to the states for a wedding, he meets Zoey Miller, a nurse, who is planning on going on a vacation after the wedding.
Freddie, is tired of always having to represent the royal family. He just wishes that he could take a real vacation that doesn't revolve around thinking about what everyone else expects from him.
When he offers to drive Zoey to her cabin, they find that it's so easy to talk to each other and when she invites him to stay he can't resist and then pretty soon neither of them wants him to leave.
But as does all things, it comes to end and he doesn't want to be without her and asks her to come home with him and meet his family. Something he has never done before.
It is obvious that they are in love, but as Zoey needs to learn the proper etiquette to be accepted by the people of Paradisa and the royal family, she seems to keep hitting road blocks and Freddie can't seem to see that she really is trying her best.
This is a happy-ever-after that will have you smiling at the end. ❤

[Kara Quade]

Prince Fredrick meets Zoey Miller at his good friend's wedding who happens to be marrying Zoey's cousin. Freddie is a prankster and complete flirt. Zoey is a nurse who has had no time for a boyfriend or social life. Freddie drives Zoey to the cabin she will be spending her vacation at and stays when Zoey asks him to stay. Freddie confesses that he is a Prince in Paradisa. Zoey and Freddie continue their relationship while he is in Chicago for a conference. When Freddie is called home, he invites Zoey to come Paradisa with him. Will someone who hungers for power drive a wedge between Freddie and Zoey? Will Zoey walk away when Freddie pushes her away? What will Freddie do when he finally learns the truth? Will Freddie be able to convince Zoey to give him a second chance? I love Krista Lakes, and A Midwestern Cinderella is a fantastic story. A Midwestern Cinderella has great characters, hot chemistry, laughs, intrigue, and a happily ever after. I would definitely recommend getting A Midwestern Cinderella by Krista Lakes. I received a ARC copy of this book, and I am leaving my honest review.

[Jennifer Pierson]

Krista Lakes is a new to me author and I'm not going to lie, I seriously LOVED A Midwestern Cinderella. It's the story of Zoey, a down to earth girl who cannot walk in heels which is how this story started. She's in her cousin's wedding & trips down the aisle because of those heels, and it's at this wedding that she meets prankster Freddie (she trips & he literally catches her). They have a connection, and when she's about to go on a vacation by herself, he ends up going with her & they have a grand ole time together. Now, he's cagey about revealing the work he does, as it just so happens that he's a prince from another country. They keep seeing each other until he's summoned home, and he gets her to go with him. Zoe tries so hard to be who he needs, but it feels like everything is against them & he changes into someone she doesn't recognize before her eyes. It gets to the point that she's at the end of her rope so will they be able to figure out how to make it work or is the fairytale over?! You know what to do to find out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL! 

[Ella]

Zoey Miller was a new nurse graduate, excited to be in her best friends wedding then take a long over due vacation now since she has finished school. One thing about weddings is being single makes it a long reception, but the groom introduce Zoey to one of his college friends and asked her to keep an eye on him and make sure he stayed out of trouble. Little did she know that introduction would change her life, they seemed to click connect. After hanging out with him that evening and running into him again and the brunch the following day, when her car died she accepted a ride to the family cabin for her vacation. The ride turned into dinner which turned in to breakfast then into him staying with her for her vacation. Their relationship grew quickly even though they just met.
Before she knew it they had been dating for several month and was thinking there time was coming to an end since he lived over seas when she was presented with a choice for her future. What could the future hold and what will she do?

[Sarah | Retro Girl Reads]

Zoey Miller is completely average. She doesn’t come from money and she has a perfectly ordinary job. When she meets jokester Freddie Prescott, she feels as though she is more than that. Freddie is handsome and charming, and he makes her feel beautiful, special and adored. As she gets to know Freddie better, she finds herself falling in love. Only problem? Freddie is a real life, bona fide prince, second in line to the throne of the kingdom of Paradisa. And when he asks her to travel with him there to meet his family, she doesn’t quite know what to think. While Zoey loves Freddie, she doesn’t know the first thing about acting royal, whether that be knowing which fork to use or how to walk in high heels. Can Zoey make a good enough impression in Paradisa to impress Freddie’s family, stay a part of his Royal world, and keep his love? Find out in this mostly lighthearted royal romance by Krista Lakes!

* i received a free copy of this book via hidden gems books and am voluntarily leaving a review *

[Kitty]

Zoey Miller is a bridesmaid in her cousin's wedding. Zoey is terribly clumsy especially in heels and dreads the walk down the aisle with good reason. She doesn't have date and afterwards ends up sitting with Freddie who went to college with the groom. The two of them really hit it off. She has no idea that Freddie is from a famous family. They begin spending a lot of time together. Eventually Freddie must return to his home country of Paradisa and resume his princely duties. He wants Zoey to come home with him. She is not prepared for all the customs that she must learn. The queen mother is in her corner but the duke who is mentoring Freddie is definitely not. The book has you totally invested in the first chapter. I kind of enjoy clumsy people and pranksters. Krista is such a good author and I always look forward to what she writes. I am voluntarily reviewing an advanced copy of this book.

[Donna Smith]

I loved this clumsy Cinderella story! Zoey is my kind of girl. She trips over air or at least, high heels which is why she avoids them as much as possible. She meets Freddie at her cousin's wedding and is smitten with him and his fun ideas but is asked to see that he bahaves. She jokingly threatens him with a serving spoon. She definitely has the same kind of fun ideas. While vacationing after the wedding, Freddie joins her and they have a whirlwind romance. When she finds out he is a real life prince, she doesnt see how they can work long term. They agree to a short term relationship just while hes here. This story made me laugh, swoon, and get teary eyed. Zoey does everything within her power to become the princess that she would be expected to be if she stayed with Freddie. Circumstances come between them and words that can never go away are said. True love may not be enough to overcome these worst of times.

[Anita Byars]

A romance novel in the finest form that is full of charming characters, humorous situations, hidden identity, jealousy, intrigue, romance, scandal and of course, a good, old-fashioned love story that brings all the feels. I couldn’t put this down, it delivered from the first page to the last.

Zoey and Freddie were so great. I loved them meeting and connecting. Such fantastic chemistry, and banter that’s super entertaining between the two. I loved watching that heat and need grow between them. This is pretty fast paced and they do have an instant connection. But will their future be a real possibility? Our will scandal and power get in their way?

A Midwestern Cinderella is a delightful modern day royal romance with all the trimmings, that made me smile, mad, tingle, cry, laugh and swoon. That delivers a sublime happy-ever-after.

Received a early copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Nikki]

A Midwestern Cinderella by Krista Lakes is a 5 star read.
Tripping up while walking down the isle at her cousin’s wedding is nothing unusual for Zoey but meeting Freddie at the reception more than made up for the embarrassment. Zoey just recently qualified as a nurse and is planning on a little getaway before her jobs really gets going, a broken down car leads to getting a lift from Freddie who she spends a magical few days with.
Freddie Prescott is a guest at Zoey’s cousin’s wedding as a friend of the groom, he’s known as a practical joker and shows just how much with a practical joke for the newlyweds. Meeting Zoey is different for him, he quickly falls for her but is hiding a huge secret, he’s a prince, but when he takes Zoey home to meet the family there’s someone in the background working against them.
I feel like I waited for so long on this book and it was definitely worth the wait, I got through this book in one sitting, I loved it so much and really can’t wait for the next one.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.