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Man of the Month #13
Royal Cocktail
Sparks fly between a playboy prince and an idealistic lawyer, but when the demands of the throne call, can they get a fairy tale ending?
Prince Leopold of Avelle-am-see is destined to rule his small European country. But he doesn’t want to. His entire life, Leopold has rebelled against the inevitable, gaining a reputation in Europe as a bad boy royal with a chip on his shoulder.
Skye Porter jams on researching complex legal issues, but with her lifelong speech impairment, she’s happy to pass the briefs off to another lawyer to argue. Just the idea of being in the spotlight makes her cringe. Two years ago, she dodged a bullet when her intense college fling with charismatic Leo ended when the bastard ghosted her. At the time, she’d had no idea he was a prince, or she never would have fallen so hard.
Now Leo is back, and the chemistry between them sparks just as hot. With his promise of secrecy, Skye surrenders to one more wild night. But when the press finds them together, Skye is tossed into a nightmare of tabloid photos, graphic memes, and a life in the public eye.
Can a reluctant royal and the girl next door find their happily ever after?
Prince Leopold of Avelle-am-see is destined to rule his small European country. But he doesn’t want to. His entire life, Leopold has rebelled against the inevitable, gaining a reputation in Europe as a bad boy royal with a chip on his shoulder.
Skye Porter jams on researching complex legal issues, but with her lifelong speech impairment, she’s happy to pass the briefs off to another lawyer to argue. Just the idea of being in the spotlight makes her cringe. Two years ago, she dodged a bullet when her intense college fling with charismatic Leo ended when the bastard ghosted her. At the time, she’d had no idea he was a prince, or she never would have fallen so hard.
Now Leo is back, and the chemistry between them sparks just as hot. With his promise of secrecy, Skye surrenders to one more wild night. But when the press finds them together, Skye is tossed into a nightmare of tabloid photos, graphic memes, and a life in the public eye.
Can a reluctant royal and the girl next door find their happily ever after?
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 12, 2021
35 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
J. Kenner
188 books10.4k followersJ. Kenner (aka Julie Kenner) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Wall Street Journal and #1 International bestselling author of over one hundred novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres.
Though known primarily for her award-winning and international bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, and paranormal mommy lit.
JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swoon for them.” A six time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy) and in 2017 for Wicked Dirty in the same category. Her Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series (as Julie Kenner) is currently in development as a television show.
Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.
In her previous career as an attorney, JK worked as a clerk on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and practiced primarily civil, entertainment and First Amendment litigation in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, as well as in Austin, Texas. She currently lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two rather spastic cats.
Though known primarily for her award-winning and international bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, and paranormal mommy lit.
JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swoon for them.” A six time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy) and in 2017 for Wicked Dirty in the same category. Her Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series (as Julie Kenner) is currently in development as a television show.
Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.
In her previous career as an attorney, JK worked as a clerk on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and practiced primarily civil, entertainment and First Amendment litigation in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, as well as in Austin, Texas. She currently lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two rather spastic cats.
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August 17, 2021Her şeyin havada olduğu bir kitaptı. Gerek duygular, gerek olaylar yüzeysel geldi. Ne zaman aşık oldular? Nasıl böyle acı çektiler? Yazar bunlardan üstün körü bahsetmiş. Kendimi duruma adapte edemedim bu yüzden.Okunur mu? Sorunsuz okudum bunda sorun yok. Sadece bence iyi bir kitap diyeceğim tatmini vermedi.
Leo adı sanı duyulmamış bir ülkenin veliaht prensi... Ama gönlü bilimden yana... Kraliyet onu bunaltıyor. Hem tacı kendinden daha iyi taşıyacak ve hak eden bir ablası var. Nalet olsun böyle geleneğe 😭🤭
Skye hukuk alanında çalışıyor. Bazı sebeplerden toplum içinde, tanımadığı insanların yanında geriliyor ve bir nevi tutuk konuşuyor. Bu yüzden arka planda çalışmakla ilgili bir sorunu yok. Spot ışıkları ondan uzak olsun yeter.
Çiftimiz okul döneminde takılır. Birbirlerinden hoşlanırlar. Leo'nun ansızın sebepsiz ortadan kaybolması, Skye'ın kalbini kırar. Biraz araştırmayla kendine söylenen yalanları öğrenir. Aradan geçen zamanda yaralarını sarmışken yeniden karşısına çıkar. Doğal olarak okkalı bir tokadı da yer...🤭
Leo der ki bazı hukuksal konularda bana yardım et, Skye da madem öyle sende bana daha rahat konuşma konusunda taktik ver... He gülüm işler de öyle yürüyordu zaten 🤭
Seride başka karakterler de vardı. Daha çok arada görünen arkadaş çevresinde. Baktım bunlar başka bir seridelermiş. Aslında ilgi çekici.🤭Kitapta buluştukları bir bar vardı. Sanırım bir kapanma durumu söz konusu olmuş. O barın müdavimleri de bir kampanya mı yapmış ne🤔 Böyle dağ gibi daş gibi beyler takvim erkeği olmuşlar 🤭Aklıma eserse bakarım bir gün.
Leo adı sanı duyulmamış bir ülkenin veliaht prensi... Ama gönlü bilimden yana... Kraliyet onu bunaltıyor. Hem tacı kendinden daha iyi taşıyacak ve hak eden bir ablası var. Nalet olsun böyle geleneğe 😭🤭
Skye hukuk alanında çalışıyor. Bazı sebeplerden toplum içinde, tanımadığı insanların yanında geriliyor ve bir nevi tutuk konuşuyor. Bu yüzden arka planda çalışmakla ilgili bir sorunu yok. Spot ışıkları ondan uzak olsun yeter.
Çiftimiz okul döneminde takılır. Birbirlerinden hoşlanırlar. Leo'nun ansızın sebepsiz ortadan kaybolması, Skye'ın kalbini kırar. Biraz araştırmayla kendine söylenen yalanları öğrenir. Aradan geçen zamanda yaralarını sarmışken yeniden karşısına çıkar. Doğal olarak okkalı bir tokadı da yer...🤭
Leo der ki bazı hukuksal konularda bana yardım et, Skye da madem öyle sende bana daha rahat konuşma konusunda taktik ver... He gülüm işler de öyle yürüyordu zaten 🤭
Seride başka karakterler de vardı. Daha çok arada görünen arkadaş çevresinde. Baktım bunlar başka bir seridelermiş. Aslında ilgi çekici.🤭Kitapta buluştukları bir bar vardı. Sanırım bir kapanma durumu söz konusu olmuş. O barın müdavimleri de bir kampanya mı yapmış ne🤔 Böyle dağ gibi daş gibi beyler takvim erkeği olmuşlar 🤭Aklıma eserse bakarım bir gün.
July 14, 2021
Leo and Skye's story was very entertaining, light, good-paced, and romantic, I really enjoyed it after heavy reading ones. This one takes us to a second-chance royal romance, with great chemistry between the characters, a good storyline, and a great heroine, she is strong, knows what she wants, and goes for it. Leo is the prince charming with flaws but who loves deeply. Definitely recommend this for a light entertaining downtime for all royal romance lovers.
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July 12, 2021
5 Wonderful Second Chance Stars!!
There really isn’t anything that Ms. Kenner writes that I won’t read. I love how she’ll surprise us with something that’s a quick read but packed with emotions books and Royal Cocktail is a perfect example of this! Skye and Leo really are perfect for each other in all the best ways. The problem is that after meeting and falling hard for each other, Leo has disappeared and the confidence that Skye had gained with Leo’s help seems to have disappeared.
My heart hurt so much for Skye, she’s a beautiful inside and out woman that has a speech impediment and unfortunately it effects some of the most important parts of her life until Leo entered her world and showed her love and patience. But when he disappears with no explanation and then reappears years later, their love is still alive and strong and Leo is determined to find a way that they can be together given his Country doesn’t allow for such coupling.
I loved every single page of this book and how Leo and Skye really were a team and would be willing to do whatever is necessary to get their HEA! Getting to see some of my favorite characters from The Man of the Month series was so much fun!
There really isn’t anything that Ms. Kenner writes that I won’t read. I love how she’ll surprise us with something that’s a quick read but packed with emotions books and Royal Cocktail is a perfect example of this! Skye and Leo really are perfect for each other in all the best ways. The problem is that after meeting and falling hard for each other, Leo has disappeared and the confidence that Skye had gained with Leo’s help seems to have disappeared.
My heart hurt so much for Skye, she’s a beautiful inside and out woman that has a speech impediment and unfortunately it effects some of the most important parts of her life until Leo entered her world and showed her love and patience. But when he disappears with no explanation and then reappears years later, their love is still alive and strong and Leo is determined to find a way that they can be together given his Country doesn’t allow for such coupling.
I loved every single page of this book and how Leo and Skye really were a team and would be willing to do whatever is necessary to get their HEA! Getting to see some of my favorite characters from The Man of the Month series was so much fun!
July 7, 2021
5 Star review of Royal Cocktail by J Kenner
Royal Cocktail is well written, fast paced and is a sizzling story that had me riveted from start to finish. This is Prince Leopold of Avelle-am-see and Skye Porter’s second chance at love story and although not a long book, Ms.Kenner certainly packed a lot into it..
Having been left behind without a word by Leo once before, Skye is shocked to learn on his return that he is in fact a member of the royal family and his destiny is to be king. Skye is a successful lawyer but her life has not been easy as she has struggled with a speech impairment all her life. There were times whilst reading that my heart broke for Skye. She has avoided the spotlight all her life but when Leo and Skye reconnect she is suddenly thrust in to it when the press finds them together.
The chemistry that sizzles between them is impossible to ignore and yet Skye is wary, she knows that being with Leo will mean she has to face her fears. I fell hard and fast for Leo, he is totally swoon worthy and I loved how supportive and caring he was of Skye. I admired Skye, she is a strong, driven and focused woman and with Leo by her side she really blossomed,
Royal Cocktail is well written, fast paced and is a sizzling story that had me riveted from start to finish. This is Prince Leopold of Avelle-am-see and Skye Porter’s second chance at love story and although not a long book, Ms.Kenner certainly packed a lot into it..
Having been left behind without a word by Leo once before, Skye is shocked to learn on his return that he is in fact a member of the royal family and his destiny is to be king. Skye is a successful lawyer but her life has not been easy as she has struggled with a speech impairment all her life. There were times whilst reading that my heart broke for Skye. She has avoided the spotlight all her life but when Leo and Skye reconnect she is suddenly thrust in to it when the press finds them together.
The chemistry that sizzles between them is impossible to ignore and yet Skye is wary, she knows that being with Leo will mean she has to face her fears. I fell hard and fast for Leo, he is totally swoon worthy and I loved how supportive and caring he was of Skye. I admired Skye, she is a strong, driven and focused woman and with Leo by her side she really blossomed,
July 24, 2021
This is a second chance romance between a reluctant prince who doesn't want to be king and a beautiful lawyer with a speech impediment. They started off as students and met at The Fix on Sixth in Austin and after weeks together finally spent the night together and then Leo ghosted her. She did not know at the time he was a prince and learned later who he was and then watched him date his way across Europe. A couple years later he turns up back in America and in her father's office. He wants to hire her and their firm to help change their constitution. Sparks ignite once again and this time they cannot be ignored. Love was at play the first time and it cannot be denied again. Will it survive when Leo's father takes ill and he is called home once again. This was a quick read but packed a lot in it. Definitely a great addition to this series and a perfect beach read!
**Received this ARC for review**
**Received this ARC for review**
July 20, 2021
It hurts me to give a J. Kenner book 4stars. I'm not sure what had me lose interest in it here and there. Maybe it was the flipping to past then present in the beginning. It could have been that it was lacking some suspense or great sex scenes like her usual. I kind of feel like it was a bit rushed. If this becomes a series will I keep reading absolutely. I wish we could learn more about Leo head of security. I definitely loved how Skye was a unique person due to her speech impediment.
I did read in this book in a exchange of a honest review.
I did read in this book in a exchange of a honest review.
July 24, 2021
I always love a story that ties back to another one that I read ages ago, and surprisingly, I do even remember a bit about those story lines even though it’s been a minute. We spent quite some time at The Fix in the Man of the Month series, so we’re back at the bar, but not for the same reasons. No more saving of the bar is needed, and instead, it’s just a back drop for where 2 people meet, and fall in love, and then realize that things are far more complicated than they seem.
We start this story two years in the past when Leo is in the US studying Physics which is something that he’s passionate about, and something that his father the King allows of him if he 1) keeps a low profile, 2) uses it as a means to further his home land and 3) realizes that this is a reprieve before he’s to take the throne in a few years. Leo is the rougish bad boy royal that we expect, but there’s more to him than meets the eye.
Skye has her own dark story. She’s a law student in the beginning of this story – and we know that her struggles in life are due to a car accident that she was in when she was little, the accident killed her mother and left her with a brain injury that impairs her speech. It’s something that she’s struggled with and learned to live with but also something that makes her uncomfortable.
When she meets Leo, it’s lust at first sight for sure, but he also doesn’t seem affected at all by her speech and it’s because he quickly informs her that he has an uncle who suffered from the same impairment and it was something that they lived with and moved on from.
We watch these two fall in love, even though Leo knows that he can never be with her. SKye isn’t a citizen of his country and that’s all that he’s allowed to marry. In fact, he hides his identity entirely and we know from experience in reading stories – when you aren’t the one to reveal who you are, it blows up in your face.
Which happens – the night after they first sleep together. Leo leaves with no note or explanation, and Skye is left brokenhearted. She only learns after the fact that he’s a prince and that he had to go home because his father suffered a heart attack, but when he also doesn’t reach out to her after the fact, things go from bad to worse.
We then fast forward two years later – when Skye is established in her family’s firm and she’s thriving, doing what she’s able and comfortable doing. She wrote an international legal paper for a law review to graduate and that same content comes back to haunt her when it brings a person from her past back to Austin for her help.
The story from here is one where we see forgiveness, yet we see tentativeness. They both don’t know where to go from the first words now since there’s so much anger and hatred, love is a hard thing to overcome. All Skye wanted was the truth and a genuine apology and it’s a shock to see that she gets it.
While Leo being back is one obstacle in Skye’s life – we also watch as her father forces her to present her international review at a symposium since it’s content that can grow the firm and it’s an opportunity to push Skye to be more than she think she can, and Skye’s terrified. She hates the idea of speaking in public and that means that she’s hit two times with painful challenges.
The balance of the story is watching how both story lines play out as well as watching how things at home need to evolve for Leo. He has an older sister who’s capable of leading their country, who wants to lead, but yet she’s a woman so she’ can’t. That’s part of what brought Leo back to the US to talk to Skye, but we also watch how things aren’t that easy.
The ending of this story is a bit of a surprise – we don’t expect revelations to come from various places, but what we get is an ending suited for the beginning of this story. I feel like there could be even more of a link and tie into the Man of the Month series, but I get why it’s a standalone.
We start this story two years in the past when Leo is in the US studying Physics which is something that he’s passionate about, and something that his father the King allows of him if he 1) keeps a low profile, 2) uses it as a means to further his home land and 3) realizes that this is a reprieve before he’s to take the throne in a few years. Leo is the rougish bad boy royal that we expect, but there’s more to him than meets the eye.
Skye has her own dark story. She’s a law student in the beginning of this story – and we know that her struggles in life are due to a car accident that she was in when she was little, the accident killed her mother and left her with a brain injury that impairs her speech. It’s something that she’s struggled with and learned to live with but also something that makes her uncomfortable.
When she meets Leo, it’s lust at first sight for sure, but he also doesn’t seem affected at all by her speech and it’s because he quickly informs her that he has an uncle who suffered from the same impairment and it was something that they lived with and moved on from.
We watch these two fall in love, even though Leo knows that he can never be with her. SKye isn’t a citizen of his country and that’s all that he’s allowed to marry. In fact, he hides his identity entirely and we know from experience in reading stories – when you aren’t the one to reveal who you are, it blows up in your face.
Which happens – the night after they first sleep together. Leo leaves with no note or explanation, and Skye is left brokenhearted. She only learns after the fact that he’s a prince and that he had to go home because his father suffered a heart attack, but when he also doesn’t reach out to her after the fact, things go from bad to worse.
We then fast forward two years later – when Skye is established in her family’s firm and she’s thriving, doing what she’s able and comfortable doing. She wrote an international legal paper for a law review to graduate and that same content comes back to haunt her when it brings a person from her past back to Austin for her help.
The story from here is one where we see forgiveness, yet we see tentativeness. They both don’t know where to go from the first words now since there’s so much anger and hatred, love is a hard thing to overcome. All Skye wanted was the truth and a genuine apology and it’s a shock to see that she gets it.
While Leo being back is one obstacle in Skye’s life – we also watch as her father forces her to present her international review at a symposium since it’s content that can grow the firm and it’s an opportunity to push Skye to be more than she think she can, and Skye’s terrified. She hates the idea of speaking in public and that means that she’s hit two times with painful challenges.
The balance of the story is watching how both story lines play out as well as watching how things at home need to evolve for Leo. He has an older sister who’s capable of leading their country, who wants to lead, but yet she’s a woman so she’ can’t. That’s part of what brought Leo back to the US to talk to Skye, but we also watch how things aren’t that easy.
The ending of this story is a bit of a surprise – we don’t expect revelations to come from various places, but what we get is an ending suited for the beginning of this story. I feel like there could be even more of a link and tie into the Man of the Month series, but I get why it’s a standalone.
July 14, 2021
3.75 stars—ROYAL COCKTAIL by J. Kenner is a stand alone, contemporary, adult, romance story line set in the author’s Man of the Month world. This is Prince Leopold of Avelle-am-see, and attorney Skye Porter’s story line. ROYAL COCKTAIL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from third person perspective, using present day and memories from the past ROYAL COCKTAIL follows the forbidden relationship between Prince Leopold ‘Leo’ of Avelle-am-see, and attorney Skye Porter. Three years earlier university students Skye and Leo met at the Austin bar ‘The Fix on Sixth’ and fell madly in love but weeks later, following their first night together, Leo ghosted our heroine, and in the aftermath Skye would watch from afar as the man that she loved and never knew was royalty, spent the next two years dating and manwhoring his way through Europe. Fast forward to present day wherein Leo would return to American, searching out the woman that had stolen his heart, hiring Skye’s law firm in an effort to ‘change’ up the royal laws in his small kingdom of Avelle-am-see. What ensues is the rekindling romance and relationship between Leo and Skye, and the potential fall-out as Leo is called home one final time.
ROYAL COCKTAIL is a story of secrets and lies; a forbidden romance between a commoner and royalty, a prince who must follows the dictates of the country he rules. In an effort to protect the woman he loves, a woman who struggles with an accident induced speech impairment, Leo walks alway but in doing so, destroys not only our heroine, but the man himself.
We are introduced to Skye’s friends Hannah and Bart; her father Tarlton Porter;as well Leo’s friend and security guard Jurgen. Several characters from the Man of the Month series make cameo appearances for cohesion and back story. The fast paced premise is engaging and entertaining; the romance struggles in the face of secrets and abandonment; the $ex scenes are limited but passionate; the characters are energetic, hurt, and determined.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from third person perspective, using present day and memories from the past ROYAL COCKTAIL follows the forbidden relationship between Prince Leopold ‘Leo’ of Avelle-am-see, and attorney Skye Porter. Three years earlier university students Skye and Leo met at the Austin bar ‘The Fix on Sixth’ and fell madly in love but weeks later, following their first night together, Leo ghosted our heroine, and in the aftermath Skye would watch from afar as the man that she loved and never knew was royalty, spent the next two years dating and manwhoring his way through Europe. Fast forward to present day wherein Leo would return to American, searching out the woman that had stolen his heart, hiring Skye’s law firm in an effort to ‘change’ up the royal laws in his small kingdom of Avelle-am-see. What ensues is the rekindling romance and relationship between Leo and Skye, and the potential fall-out as Leo is called home one final time.
ROYAL COCKTAIL is a story of secrets and lies; a forbidden romance between a commoner and royalty, a prince who must follows the dictates of the country he rules. In an effort to protect the woman he loves, a woman who struggles with an accident induced speech impairment, Leo walks alway but in doing so, destroys not only our heroine, but the man himself.
We are introduced to Skye’s friends Hannah and Bart; her father Tarlton Porter;as well Leo’s friend and security guard Jurgen. Several characters from the Man of the Month series make cameo appearances for cohesion and back story. The fast paced premise is engaging and entertaining; the romance struggles in the face of secrets and abandonment; the $ex scenes are limited but passionate; the characters are energetic, hurt, and determined.
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 13, 2021
Super dreamy and reluctant prince falls for beautiful American lawyer in this sweet second chance romance.
Skye is a successful attorney in her family’s law firm. She graduated first in her class and loves doing what she has studied for -- as a “behind the scenes” litigator. Skye acquired a terrible speech impediment from a fatal car accident in her youth. Often slurring her speech, it has made her shy away public oratory duties, such as speaking in front of a court. Now, her father schedules her to give a speech in front of 100 international dignitaries. What could go wrong?
Leo is the playboy Prince Leopold from a remote European country. The book starts out going back and forth two years earlier when Leo and Skye meet at a bar in Austin. He was basically under the radar going after his dream career of a physicist, not his actual duty as future King. He gets caught up in Skye while continuing to maintain his cover identity. Especially touching in that he does not even flinch from her speech difficulties. Two years later, after an emergency had him ditching Skye without a goodbye, he is back in need of her help. She is pissed at him but ultimately agrees to assist him if he helps her back.
Royal Cocktail is a bonus book from J Kenner’s “Man of the Month” series but totally readable as a standalone. It is amazing how Ms. Kenner can develop the chemistry between these well-written characters in such a short read. There are mentions of the previous “Man of the Month” series characters, but they do not overwhelm or distract you from this couple’s love story at all. Royal Cocktail is the definition of a blissful beach read for this summer.
I was provided an ARC from the author for an honest review.
Skye is a successful attorney in her family’s law firm. She graduated first in her class and loves doing what she has studied for -- as a “behind the scenes” litigator. Skye acquired a terrible speech impediment from a fatal car accident in her youth. Often slurring her speech, it has made her shy away public oratory duties, such as speaking in front of a court. Now, her father schedules her to give a speech in front of 100 international dignitaries. What could go wrong?
Leo is the playboy Prince Leopold from a remote European country. The book starts out going back and forth two years earlier when Leo and Skye meet at a bar in Austin. He was basically under the radar going after his dream career of a physicist, not his actual duty as future King. He gets caught up in Skye while continuing to maintain his cover identity. Especially touching in that he does not even flinch from her speech difficulties. Two years later, after an emergency had him ditching Skye without a goodbye, he is back in need of her help. She is pissed at him but ultimately agrees to assist him if he helps her back.
Royal Cocktail is a bonus book from J Kenner’s “Man of the Month” series but totally readable as a standalone. It is amazing how Ms. Kenner can develop the chemistry between these well-written characters in such a short read. There are mentions of the previous “Man of the Month” series characters, but they do not overwhelm or distract you from this couple’s love story at all. Royal Cocktail is the definition of a blissful beach read for this summer.
I was provided an ARC from the author for an honest review.
July 13, 2021
Our Hero, Leo, is the crown heir of his small country. He convinces his father, the king, to let him pursue his love of physics with a renown professor in Austin. Our heroine, Skye, is pursuing her law degree at the same school, but that's not where they meet. For J Kenner readers, we recognize the bar, The Fix on Sixth, where they meet as the central location for her Man of the Month series. We also catch a fun glimpse of some of those characters, including, her best friend Hannah, whose story we read in "In Too Deep".
In the beginning, Leo and Skye seem to be living their own fairytale. Leo can be a normal college student meeting friends who like him for himself and not because he's a prince. Skye must live with a speech impediment as a result of a car accident that killed her mother. When she meets Leo, and he jumps to the right conclusion about her speech, she doesn't feel self-conscious being with him. Just as their friendship turns into a relationship, he suddenly disappears without a trace. The story flips back and forth from their past to the present when he returns to Austin and is met with a frosty greeting when he literally runs into Skye at The Fix. Their once impossible relationship comes full circle into a beautiful happily ever after!
In the beginning, Leo and Skye seem to be living their own fairytale. Leo can be a normal college student meeting friends who like him for himself and not because he's a prince. Skye must live with a speech impediment as a result of a car accident that killed her mother. When she meets Leo, and he jumps to the right conclusion about her speech, she doesn't feel self-conscious being with him. Just as their friendship turns into a relationship, he suddenly disappears without a trace. The story flips back and forth from their past to the present when he returns to Austin and is met with a frosty greeting when he literally runs into Skye at The Fix. Their once impossible relationship comes full circle into a beautiful happily ever after!
July 13, 2021
I'm a bit of a sucker for a J.Kenner book and I always know that when I pick up her books I am in for a quick read that will be filled with heat and emotion. Royal Cocktail is exactly that as I got sucked into the story of Skye and Leo and didn't put this book down until I hit the last page. It's a second chance romance, as Skye and Leo had a brief yet mutually impactful fling years before, and got separated as Leo suddenly disappears without even a backwards glance, and Skye discovers that Leo is really a Prince, set to soon ascend the throne. There were some pretty heavy The Prince and Me vibes with this one.
Skye is heartbroken, and while she has regained a bit of her confidence and self-esteem she lost when he left, she is still struggling. Re-enter Leo and as much as Skye is determined to stay away, she ends up giving him a chance and we begin to see how Skye and Leo are actually perfect for each other.
I loved this entire book, and I especially loved how we got to revisit The Fix and some of the characters from the Man of the Month series. I can't wait to see what J.Kenner delivers next!
Skye is heartbroken, and while she has regained a bit of her confidence and self-esteem she lost when he left, she is still struggling. Re-enter Leo and as much as Skye is determined to stay away, she ends up giving him a chance and we begin to see how Skye and Leo are actually perfect for each other.
I loved this entire book, and I especially loved how we got to revisit The Fix and some of the characters from the Man of the Month series. I can't wait to see what J.Kenner delivers next!
July 15, 2021
Royal Cocktail is a riveting, entertaining yet emotional read that will appeal to wide range of audiences. This is Prince Leopold of Avelle-am-see and Skye Porters second chance love story, it’s set in the Man of the Month World but it can certainly be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone.
Leo walked away from Skye without a goodbye so she is shocked to find out he is back and this time around she gets to the truth about him being a member of Royalty. Skye has her own career as a successful lawyer but her life hasn’t always been easy as she has struggled with a speech impediment from a young age. Because of this she has shied away from the spotlight but when your seen around town with Royalty that is no longer an option…..
This is fast paced, wonderful read that has some seriously hot chemistry, it’s a story that will tug at your heartstrings as you watch Leo and Skye’s romance grow and you see her strength come shinning through. This book ticked all my boxes and I’m sure it will tick yours too.
Leo walked away from Skye without a goodbye so she is shocked to find out he is back and this time around she gets to the truth about him being a member of Royalty. Skye has her own career as a successful lawyer but her life hasn’t always been easy as she has struggled with a speech impediment from a young age. Because of this she has shied away from the spotlight but when your seen around town with Royalty that is no longer an option…..
This is fast paced, wonderful read that has some seriously hot chemistry, it’s a story that will tug at your heartstrings as you watch Leo and Skye’s romance grow and you see her strength come shinning through. This book ticked all my boxes and I’m sure it will tick yours too.
July 17, 2021
Royal Cocktail
J. Kenner
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is an edited review!
As I’d started Royal Cocktail, I wasn’t in love with it, I didn’t much like Leo, but I did love Skye’s character. These two are definitely polar opposites, but share a common goal. I hadn’t given the book it’s respect and seriously was ready to throw in the towel on reading, did I hate leaving unfinished stories so I pushed on, it’s taken a few days but I got there, and my whole opinion changed.
Leo grew on me as he did with Skye, showing up as the jerk who left her behind, but returned a man willing up to anything to win his girl… Even so much as to give up his right to rule as king in his country! He as Skye share something special, that stems from her speech impediment that she has grown up with.
With a life he can’t hide from and an opportunity she can’t turn down, together they’ll change everything to be together! This was a beautiful love story built on trust as much as affection.
It was nice to see The Fix appear along with some of the characters from ms Kenner’s Man Of The Month series which was another positive.
J. Kenner
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is an edited review!
As I’d started Royal Cocktail, I wasn’t in love with it, I didn’t much like Leo, but I did love Skye’s character. These two are definitely polar opposites, but share a common goal. I hadn’t given the book it’s respect and seriously was ready to throw in the towel on reading, did I hate leaving unfinished stories so I pushed on, it’s taken a few days but I got there, and my whole opinion changed.
Leo grew on me as he did with Skye, showing up as the jerk who left her behind, but returned a man willing up to anything to win his girl… Even so much as to give up his right to rule as king in his country! He as Skye share something special, that stems from her speech impediment that she has grown up with.
With a life he can’t hide from and an opportunity she can’t turn down, together they’ll change everything to be together! This was a beautiful love story built on trust as much as affection.
It was nice to see The Fix appear along with some of the characters from ms Kenner’s Man Of The Month series which was another positive.
July 6, 2021
Royal Cocktail is the first that shows us about Avelle-am-see and it's royal family. We have Leo who just wants to be normal but has responsibilities he must go through. Then we have Skye who wants to be normal but feels because of her speech she is well useless. Leo is perfect for Skye showing her that she is a strong woman that can overcome anything even her own fears. J. Kenner shows us two people who are actually similiar in many ways but come from different lifestyles afraid to do the impossible and really love. I loved that J. Kenner put these two together but life has a way of pulling them apart and fate well sure has a lot to work with these two. All in all loved seeing them trying to find their way back together but one thing for sure their love is stronger than ever. Loved it.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
July 11, 2021
Leo and Skye met in college and for Skye, she is surprised by Leo’s attention. She has a speech impediment that usually deters men from wanting to spend time with her. They build a wonderful relationship until Leo disappears and Skye figures out that he is royalty. When he reappears a few years later and wants to hire her law firm and specifically her expertise, she is stunned. He broke her heart; can she find a way to help him? At the same time, her father wants her to give a big speech at a firm sponsored event, maybe she can use Leo’s experience to coach her. Leo doesn’t want to be king and knows Skye is the woman for him. To make that happen, he has to find a way to change his country’s constitution on the succession to the throne. But first, he has to grovel to convince Skye to forgive him. I enjoyed this couple as they got a second chance to find their happily ever after. I voluntarily read an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
July 12, 2021
The thing I love most about Ms. Kenner's writing is that her books and characters can intertwine but be standalone's at the same time. This book is set in Austin at the Fix on Sixth bar with the Men of the Month hunks. Following an accident which killed her mother, Skye was left with a debilitating speech impediment that left her very self conscious and afraid to speak in public. When she was in college she met Leo, or Prince Leopold of Avelle-am-see as she later discovered, he understood about her speech and the two fell in love. When Leo disappeared one night, Skye was devastated. And now he's back, wanting Skye's law firm to help him with a constitutional legal matter. As they spend more time together, they realize that the feelings are still very much there, but also know that nothing can come of them as Leo will one day be king. Quick fun read, with familiar characters popping up. Not my favorite of Ms. Kenner's books, but a solid story.
July 14, 2021
When Ms. Kenner comes out with a new book, you just know it is going to be good and this one is no exception. Leo is a prince from a country in Europe who comes to Texas to attend classes with a renowned professor when he meets Skye. Skye is somewhat shy due to an accident she had when she was younger. The two forge a relationship until the truth about Leo comes to light and they go their separate ways. Fast forward a few years and Leo is back with a request that will have him in close proximity to Skye again. Will she be willing to help Leo? There is so much to love about these two. The passion between them is smoking and their banter will keep you glued to the pages. There is the added bonus of returning to The Fix on Sixth from the Man of the Month series where friends are family. Overall, this is one well written, engrossing second chance at love that needs to be in your hands asap.
July 18, 2021
This second chance romance brings up back to the Fix and to our characters we met in the Man of the Month club. Skye is a lawyer and has a brilliant mind, but unfortunately due to a car accident and brain injury has developed a speaking disorder. Prince Leo doesn’t want to be a prince at all and rather be in a science lab. These two meet while Leo is studying at the same university as Skye and progress from becoming friends to more than friends. Unfortunately, Princely duties summon also away while breaking Skye’s heart in the process. Can she forgive him when he comes calling to ask for her assistance in royal duties?
Quick on the steam and great character build. I’m happy to see diversity in the characters in this story.
This book *could* be read as a stand-alone from MOTM series, but you would need a little more of Griffin’s story for a complete understanding of certain scenes with Skye.
4/5 stars
Quick on the steam and great character build. I’m happy to see diversity in the characters in this story.
This book *could* be read as a stand-alone from MOTM series, but you would need a little more of Griffin’s story for a complete understanding of certain scenes with Skye.
4/5 stars
July 12, 2021
I completely read this book in one setting. I adored Skye and I think she is one of my top three favorites from J Kenner. She had some struggles and to feel like you are never going to get through, you felt Skye's pain through the words. I completely related with Skye and my heart cried for her. But even though obstacles came her way, she took it all with grace. Then there is the hole in her heart that Leo left her with.
Leo is definitely a swoon worthy hero. His heart called out for Skye and he was her biggest fan to help her get through the tough times. As the years pass and fate intervenes, these two are pulled back together. That chemistry was off the charts and their love story is a story I will be revisiting soon!
July 14, 2021
Mistakes are made to be corrected.
Leo (Prince Leopold) & Skye met in school, but she had no idea who he really was. He knew he couldn’t have a lasting relationship with her because of his country’s laws (not to marry a commoner). Besides, he was to be King, although his sister was older than he was. He was called home for a family emergency, but never said goodbye to Skye. Now he’s back. He wants to make changes to his country’s constitution, and he wants her to help him write it. He in turn will help her with her speech impediment for speaking in front of people. You just know they love each other, but can it ever be? It’s a bumpy ride they go on together. Loved this book. It’s a little bit different than then the norm. J. Kenner is such a great writer, you won’t be disappointed.
Leo (Prince Leopold) & Skye met in school, but she had no idea who he really was. He knew he couldn’t have a lasting relationship with her because of his country’s laws (not to marry a commoner). Besides, he was to be King, although his sister was older than he was. He was called home for a family emergency, but never said goodbye to Skye. Now he’s back. He wants to make changes to his country’s constitution, and he wants her to help him write it. He in turn will help her with her speech impediment for speaking in front of people. You just know they love each other, but can it ever be? It’s a bumpy ride they go on together. Loved this book. It’s a little bit different than then the norm. J. Kenner is such a great writer, you won’t be disappointed.
August 22, 2021
This story is about a real Prince Stephan Leopold who comes to the United States to attend University. His real identity is concealed from the public so he avoids being in the public eye. He meets Skye Porter who is also attending the University studying Law. There is an instant attraction and feelings between them. Skye was in an accident when she was younger and she has a speech impediment. This doesn't stop Leopold from wanting to be close to her. She is attracted to him and there is a connection between them. Skye gives him her virginity. Leo knows he shouldn't because being of Royalty he can never have her. But, he succumbs to his desire for her. The day after he disappears for two years. When Skye sees him again she is... You have to read the book to see what happens next. Fairy tales do they come true💙💙💙
July 12, 2021
Sky is a law student. After a terrible accident she had a brain damage that effect her speaking therefore she has trouble speaking in public. One day she meets a handsome guy Leo and they fall in love. But he is from another country and has to leave again. But one day he is gone without a goodbye and soon after she discovers that he is a prince. Years later they meet again and she made a promise to herself that she wouldn’t fall for him again. They both know that a relationship between the two of them can’t happen but can they stay away from each other and what will happen when he has to leave again? A fantastic royal romance about love and hope and dreams. I enjoyed every single minute of it
July 12, 2021
What a fun read! I liked going back to The Fix (it's ok if you haven't read Man of the Month series, but I recommend it!) and the Austin area for this read. Skye has to live her life more carefully than most because of her accident. She doesn't like attention on herself or her speech impairment. She is a hard worker and a good employee. While she has a daunting task ahead of her, she realizes she can use a little help. I liked how this book dips into the past to show how things started between Skye and Leo. I liked the chemistry between them and how well they work together. I enjoyed the way he brought her a little more out of her shell. This was a delightful read and I didn't want to put this book down!
July 13, 2021
Received an ARC for an honest review.
It's been a while since I read a royalty storyline and this one helped remember why I loved them so much. Leo and Skye have an adorable meet-cute at Fix on Sixth (shout out to Man of the Month books if you haven't already read them!) and share a few weeks together before it all goes wrong. Mainly before the Prince returns to his homeland and Skye is left realizing the man who broke her heart was royalty.
I always appreciate a dual-perspective read since it lets me see what both sides are thinking and the use of flashbacks was equally great. Setting the tone for their current relationship, while understanding how close they were previously was perfect for this.
It's been a while since I read a royalty storyline and this one helped remember why I loved them so much. Leo and Skye have an adorable meet-cute at Fix on Sixth (shout out to Man of the Month books if you haven't already read them!) and share a few weeks together before it all goes wrong. Mainly before the Prince returns to his homeland and Skye is left realizing the man who broke her heart was royalty.
I always appreciate a dual-perspective read since it lets me see what both sides are thinking and the use of flashbacks was equally great. Setting the tone for their current relationship, while understanding how close they were previously was perfect for this.
May 31, 2022
Cocktail Royal est une novella qui clôt de manière toute mignonne et sympathique la saga L'homme du mois de J Kenner. Dans ce court récit, nous partons à la découverte de deux personnages qui n'ont pas de réelles prises sur leur vie. C'est le petit bonus qui nous fait plaisir et qu'on dévore rapidement
ce fut agréable de retourner pour un court instant au bar The Fix même si l'essentiel de l'intrigue se déroule ailleurs, on sait que ce lieu aura une importance pour nos deux héros. J Kenner nous offre une histoire sympathique et sans prise de tête pour faire plaisir aux fans de la série.
Avis complet à lire : https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
ce fut agréable de retourner pour un court instant au bar The Fix même si l'essentiel de l'intrigue se déroule ailleurs, on sait que ce lieu aura une importance pour nos deux héros. J Kenner nous offre une histoire sympathique et sans prise de tête pour faire plaisir aux fans de la série.
Avis complet à lire : https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
July 13, 2021
Final Score - 4 Stars!
I enjoyed this latest edition to the Men of the Month series. Skye is my hero and Leo … oooo, I would had made him suffer more (but that’s just me LOL).
More in-depth review to come …
Yeah, if Leo ever did to me what he did to Skye - he'd still be jumping thru hoops to win me back. Poor Skye - she always had to be strong in the face of suck adversity and misunderstanding regarding her speech limitations. My heart broke fore her during the books - but don't worry, she's no meek or shy flower. When you get her riled up, this woman can more than hold her own in putting a person in their place. She proved that to Leo over and over again.
It was great to revisit The Fix on the Sixth, Tyree and the gang. I hope there are more books to come, but that's just me.
(edited to add in 7/12/2021)
I enjoyed this latest edition to the Men of the Month series. Skye is my hero and Leo … oooo, I would had made him suffer more (but that’s just me LOL).
More in-depth review to come …
Yeah, if Leo ever did to me what he did to Skye - he'd still be jumping thru hoops to win me back. Poor Skye - she always had to be strong in the face of suck adversity and misunderstanding regarding her speech limitations. My heart broke fore her during the books - but don't worry, she's no meek or shy flower. When you get her riled up, this woman can more than hold her own in putting a person in their place. She proved that to Leo over and over again.
It was great to revisit The Fix on the Sixth, Tyree and the gang. I hope there are more books to come, but that's just me.
(edited to add in 7/12/2021)
July 13, 2021
***ARC provided for honest review***
This was a hard one to finish for me. I found Leo… infuriating. I struggled with the connection between Skye and Leo, as if Skye forgave his shortcomings because he was a man who paid her attention.
Skye was a wonderful character and I just felt she deserved better. The story was well written if the premise not a little frustrating. Leo just felt so entitled and I feel like Skye deserved better.
It’s not often I can’t see past red flags in a romance book but I really struggled this time. I would still recommend giving it a go because it’s not the author or the writing, it’s just this story wasn’t quite for me.
This was a hard one to finish for me. I found Leo… infuriating. I struggled with the connection between Skye and Leo, as if Skye forgave his shortcomings because he was a man who paid her attention.
Skye was a wonderful character and I just felt she deserved better. The story was well written if the premise not a little frustrating. Leo just felt so entitled and I feel like Skye deserved better.
It’s not often I can’t see past red flags in a romance book but I really struggled this time. I would still recommend giving it a go because it’s not the author or the writing, it’s just this story wasn’t quite for me.
July 14, 2021
Surprisingly cute & romantic love story of Prince Leo, reluctant heir to the throne, who falls for a commoner. Law student Skye doesn’t know he’s a prince when they meet, and after a brief romance he returns home, leaving her heartbroken without any explanation. Fast forward several years and lawyer Skye finds herself assigned to work with the man she never forgot. If they can’t share a future maybe they can at least share a few weeks together.
Having Skye dealing with a speech impediment & Leo working with her to overcome it was a unique twist I haven’t read before. This was a satisfying second chance fairytale with enough spice to keep it from being overly sweet.
Having Skye dealing with a speech impediment & Leo working with her to overcome it was a unique twist I haven’t read before. This was a satisfying second chance fairytale with enough spice to keep it from being overly sweet.
July 12, 2021
If you read the Man of the Month series, than there are a lot of secondary and tertiary characters in this book you’ll recognize. The beginning of the book starts with jumping between two years ago and present time. While not super steamy, there is chemistry, and the banter between characters was great. The story itself is good, but there are some situations, things said that never came full circle. Hannah says something to Leo about his leaving, but nothing in the story ever even remotely supports those comments. If it hadn’t been for situations like this I would have rated the book higher.
July 12, 2021
Nothing worse than falling for someone you cannot have turns into so much more when the one man Skye falls in love with just happens to be an actual Prince. So when Leo returns and crosses paths with Skye once again, she knows upfront that this affair should not happen. But sometimes the heart wants wheat the heart wants. Can true love prevail for Skye and Leo? Or is Skye once again left with a broken heart? You will instantly fall in love with the characters and it was a great read to get reacquainted with the Men of the Month club.
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