What do you think?
Rate this book
Hearts and Crowns #1
Emmie and the Tudor King
One moment, Emmie is writing her final high school history paper before graduation; the next, she's lost in sixteenth-century Tudor England, where she meets a dreamy but dangerous king who is destined for a dreadful fate.
Able to travel back to her own time but intensely drawn to King Nick and the mysterious death of his sister, Emmie finds herself solving the murder of a young princess and unraveling court secrets while trying to keep her head on her shoulders, literally.
With everything to lose, Emmie will come to face her biggest battle of all: How to cheat the path of history and keep her irresistible king, or lose him—and her heart—forever.
Able to travel back to her own time but intensely drawn to King Nick and the mysterious death of his sister, Emmie finds herself solving the murder of a young princess and unraveling court secrets while trying to keep her head on her shoulders, literally.
With everything to lose, Emmie will come to face her biggest battle of all: How to cheat the path of history and keep her irresistible king, or lose him—and her heart—forever.
330 pages, Paperback
First published June 11, 2019
32 people are currently reading
2230 people want to read
About the author
Natalie Murray
10 books179 followersNatalie Murray is a bestselling author of honest, heartfelt romance. Her breakout novel, Love, Just In, was published by Allen & Unwin in January 2024, followed by Lights, Camera, Love in August 2025. Her third novel, a sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance, will be published in January 2027. Natalie is also the author of a time-travel romance series that’s currently in development for television, and co-writes heartwarming rom-coms with American author Jenny Fyfe, including their small-town romances Hating the Best Man and Loving the Worst Man.
Before becoming an author, Natalie was an entertainment reporter for Sky News, where she interviewed many high-profile celebrities like Elton John, Angelina Jolie, Sylvester Stallone, Dustin Hoffman, Matt Damon, Cameron Diaz, and Jerry Seinfeld. Natalie grew up in Sydney, Australia, and is the daughter of cookbook author Eva Stovern and the late Australian football icon Les Murray.
When she's not writing books, you can find Natalie clinging to her family (literally; she's super affectionate), packing or unpacking a suitcase, making lists of things she'll never have time for because she's too busy making lists, or playing on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. You can visit Natalie at nataliemurrayauthor.com.
Before becoming an author, Natalie was an entertainment reporter for Sky News, where she interviewed many high-profile celebrities like Elton John, Angelina Jolie, Sylvester Stallone, Dustin Hoffman, Matt Damon, Cameron Diaz, and Jerry Seinfeld. Natalie grew up in Sydney, Australia, and is the daughter of cookbook author Eva Stovern and the late Australian football icon Les Murray.
When she's not writing books, you can find Natalie clinging to her family (literally; she's super affectionate), packing or unpacking a suitcase, making lists of things she'll never have time for because she's too busy making lists, or playing on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. You can visit Natalie at nataliemurrayauthor.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
April 16, 2019
I had the opportunity to read some early works by Natalie a few years ago and was always drawn to her style of writing "Fan fiction". So I was immediately interested when I heard she was writing a new novel. I had the opportunity to get a hold of a review copy of "Emmie and the Tudor King" and quickly dove right in.
I will admit that I was unsure if I would enjoy the Tudor's as their time was never an interest to me. My fears were quickly erased as I was thrust into the time of King Nick and a world I suddenly found fascinating due to the descriptive storytelling that Natalie presented. But while Nick is a smoldering and fascinating leading man, Emmie holds her own as an adorable but stubborn and independent girl who kept my interest tuned in and me turning page after page to find out what was going to happen with her and the Tudor King. For two days I was rushing home from work to read more pages and get drawn even further into their intriguing story.
If you want to get lost in a story full of romance, comedy, and heart, look no further than "Emmie and the Tudor King". You'll be begging for the next book to be ready before you even finish the last words on the page!
March 27, 2019
This was such a fun book. Emmie and Nick were adorable together, obviously, but it was the plot itself that really shined. There was a bit of Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court mixed with swoony romance and it was a delight to read. I was kept guessing and just couldn't put it down. I adored the way Emmie's life in the past paralleled her modern life and the way she forged relationships, and it was all really well done. I'm so happy I got to read it.
May 15, 2023
I devoured this book in one sitting, I simply couldn’t put it down! It’s fast paced, well written, and so exciting!! Not to mention the romance! (King Nick is so...😍❤️)
I definitely recommend it! And get ready to stay up all night, because this story is highly addictive!
I definitely recommend it! And get ready to stay up all night, because this story is highly addictive!
May 4, 2019
I received an ARC of Emmie and the Tudor King from Kaye Publicity in exchange for an honest review and I can say I was not disappointed! It is the first in a trilogy I believe And if your a fan of quick historical romance with a twist of time travel, you will love this book. Being a fan of people like The Boleyn girls and The tudors will make it even better. The beginning I would have liked to see a bit more happen to create the romance between the two characters, it kind of was a bit too much gorgeous model looks and not enough chivalry actions to see the strength of the relationship. But, I quickly got over that fact and was immersed in the story and characters. I wanted to be Emmie and able to experience such things...
I recommend this book for anyone who loves cute gushy romances with a timetravel mystery twist. I am absolutely heartbroken that is ended so soon 😭😭
.
.
.
I recommend this book for anyone who loves cute gushy romances with a timetravel mystery twist. I am absolutely heartbroken that is ended so soon 😭😭
.
.
.
September 22, 2019
Originally published on The Nerd Daily | Review by Annie Deo
The elevator pitch for Emmie and the Tudor King is Doctor Who meets Outlander as it revolves around a modern day girl who finds herself back in the 16th century where she is embroiled in court intrigue, royal flirtations and thwarting an impending murder. This is a fun fast-paced YA historical novel that’s perfect wish fulfilment material for any reader who’s dreamed of a whirlwind romance with someone rich, powerful and fabulously attractive!
Unfortunately there isn’t enough time spent on showing Emmie and her Tudor king, Nick, developing feelings for each other so it comes off as love at first sight which isn’t my favourite trope. She falls for him because he’s so dreamy and he falls for her because…she’s not like other girls? Since she knows that he becomes a bloodthirsty tyrant in future and it’s not hard to believe as she witnesses how he is prone to violence and executing people without hesitation, the buildup to their relationship really needed a stronger foundation to make sense. Given that the romance is so central to the plot, the book wasn’t really my cup of tea, but this is a case of ‘it’s not you, it’s me’ as it will appeal to others who enjoy this trope and are interested in fluffy romances or looking for a light read.
While the romance is rather flimsy, the plot is much stronger, well-developed and it’s clear that the author has done her research. Before the story starts, there is a brief timeline that shows important historical events and figures to set the stage for us in terms of the political minefield and current conflict between the Protestants and Catholics in the period that Emmie is visiting. The author has created a fictional character in Nicholas the Ironheart, but cleverly used the real historical setting to flesh out the storyline and add authenticity to her plot.
The comparisons to Doctor Who are on point as the most appealing and original aspect of this story is Emmie’s ability to move between the Tudor period and her present day timeline which is something I haven’t seen explored much in time travel romances. Normally the heroine is stuck in the past and has to make do with the circumstances they’ve landed in, but Emmie has the advantages of being able to return home to shower and research online! While convenient in some aspects, it also has the effect of complicating her life enormously since she has to juggle the two different timelines and allay any suspicions from her mother and friends which requires some creative thinking. It also sets up some twists and turns as she can catch up on how her actions in the past have influenced (or failed to influence) the present, which increases the stakes as the date moves closer to the murder she’s trying to prevent.
The ongoing mystery that Emmie works on solving was irresistibly engaging and keeps the reader guessing! There were any number of times that I thought it had been solved, only for Emmie to come back home and find that she hadn’t been successful in changing history to avert the murder after all. While the romantic aspects of this book are tooth-achingly sweet, the danger that Emmie encounters makes for a startling contrast as she regularly finds herself in jeopardy and is injured on occasion, adding to the tension and moral dilemma she faces in deciding whether or not to keep going back in time. Does she have the obligation to save someone’s life when the possibility is in her grasp? And the more she time travels, the more invested she becomes in her relationships with the people in that time period and the harder it is to extricate herself from their problems.
If you are fine with insta-love, there is much to enjoy here with the time-travelling murder mystery explored in creative ways and historical drama much like an addictive soap opera. The author smartly subverts expectations at key points, pulling the rug out from under the reader which enhances the story and keeps you eager to read more.
The elevator pitch for Emmie and the Tudor King is Doctor Who meets Outlander as it revolves around a modern day girl who finds herself back in the 16th century where she is embroiled in court intrigue, royal flirtations and thwarting an impending murder. This is a fun fast-paced YA historical novel that’s perfect wish fulfilment material for any reader who’s dreamed of a whirlwind romance with someone rich, powerful and fabulously attractive!
Unfortunately there isn’t enough time spent on showing Emmie and her Tudor king, Nick, developing feelings for each other so it comes off as love at first sight which isn’t my favourite trope. She falls for him because he’s so dreamy and he falls for her because…she’s not like other girls? Since she knows that he becomes a bloodthirsty tyrant in future and it’s not hard to believe as she witnesses how he is prone to violence and executing people without hesitation, the buildup to their relationship really needed a stronger foundation to make sense. Given that the romance is so central to the plot, the book wasn’t really my cup of tea, but this is a case of ‘it’s not you, it’s me’ as it will appeal to others who enjoy this trope and are interested in fluffy romances or looking for a light read.
While the romance is rather flimsy, the plot is much stronger, well-developed and it’s clear that the author has done her research. Before the story starts, there is a brief timeline that shows important historical events and figures to set the stage for us in terms of the political minefield and current conflict between the Protestants and Catholics in the period that Emmie is visiting. The author has created a fictional character in Nicholas the Ironheart, but cleverly used the real historical setting to flesh out the storyline and add authenticity to her plot.
The comparisons to Doctor Who are on point as the most appealing and original aspect of this story is Emmie’s ability to move between the Tudor period and her present day timeline which is something I haven’t seen explored much in time travel romances. Normally the heroine is stuck in the past and has to make do with the circumstances they’ve landed in, but Emmie has the advantages of being able to return home to shower and research online! While convenient in some aspects, it also has the effect of complicating her life enormously since she has to juggle the two different timelines and allay any suspicions from her mother and friends which requires some creative thinking. It also sets up some twists and turns as she can catch up on how her actions in the past have influenced (or failed to influence) the present, which increases the stakes as the date moves closer to the murder she’s trying to prevent.
The ongoing mystery that Emmie works on solving was irresistibly engaging and keeps the reader guessing! There were any number of times that I thought it had been solved, only for Emmie to come back home and find that she hadn’t been successful in changing history to avert the murder after all. While the romantic aspects of this book are tooth-achingly sweet, the danger that Emmie encounters makes for a startling contrast as she regularly finds herself in jeopardy and is injured on occasion, adding to the tension and moral dilemma she faces in deciding whether or not to keep going back in time. Does she have the obligation to save someone’s life when the possibility is in her grasp? And the more she time travels, the more invested she becomes in her relationships with the people in that time period and the harder it is to extricate herself from their problems.
If you are fine with insta-love, there is much to enjoy here with the time-travelling murder mystery explored in creative ways and historical drama much like an addictive soap opera. The author smartly subverts expectations at key points, pulling the rug out from under the reader which enhances the story and keeps you eager to read more.
May 30, 2019
I finished this book last night and couldn’t put it down. YA fantasy is one of my favourite genres and this ranks right up there. Love the historical world building.
Emmie and Nick are adorable together. They felt like real people. Nick is swoon worthy!! Will definitely read the rest of the three nook series when they’re out.
Emmie and Nick are adorable together. They felt like real people. Nick is swoon worthy!! Will definitely read the rest of the three nook series when they’re out.
June 4, 2019
I loved this book! I've always had a great interest in the Tudor family and I also hail from western Massachusetts where Emmie resides so it was a really exciting read for me.
It was so much fun bouncing back and forth in time! I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out how it ended! This is definitely one of my favorite reads this summer! 💖
It was so much fun bouncing back and forth in time! I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out how it ended! This is definitely one of my favorite reads this summer! 💖
March 28, 2021
"But, my lady, you mistake need for want. What I yearn for in all hours of night, what I crave, what I hope for-when my kingdom is shrouded in the dark threat of war- is you."
"What if Queen Elizabeth I married her beloved Robert Dudley and gave birth to a son in 1560? A son that would become the last, and most notorious, Tudor monarch of all... Nicholas the Ironheart." Eep! His name emits horror. Like Stalking Jack the Ripper. *Shudders*. Nicholas was crowned king of England at the age of 12. His eight-year-old sister, Catherine (Kit), was murdered under mysterious circumstances and the king's reprisal was HARSH, earning him his terror inducing nickname. Twenty-first century America...The same day Emmie Grace is assigned an essay on the infamous king Nicholas, she also is in possession of a bizarre ring. A time travel ring. If Emmie is going to try and find out who is responsible for Kit's murder, she better work fast!
Okay, I am the worst Sherlock Homeboy in history of all history. I did NOT see THAT coming. Like...
Ultimate shock! And Nick. *sighs dreamily*. Funny and a king. Merciful and kind. He is like the eye-candy boss. The last 30% of the book is nail biting! I was breathless with anticipation. And anxiety! Suspense!
HOW IS THIS GOING TO PLAY OUT? Stakes are high, hearts are pounding, eye balls are being willed to read FASTER! Don't worry, you'll be able to breathe again. What an adventure. Emmie and the Tudor King is an enchanting time travel romance, that YA bookworms need to read!
READ IF YOU LIKE:
-star crossed love stories
-dreamy kings
-solving mysteries like a sleuth
-YA sci-fi
-time travel
-#IsThisAKissingBook: "I ache to kiss you"
-16th century Tudor England
Thank you Natalie Murray for an advanced copy!
Song: King and Lionheart by Of Monsters and Men
"What if Queen Elizabeth I married her beloved Robert Dudley and gave birth to a son in 1560? A son that would become the last, and most notorious, Tudor monarch of all... Nicholas the Ironheart." Eep! His name emits horror. Like Stalking Jack the Ripper. *Shudders*. Nicholas was crowned king of England at the age of 12. His eight-year-old sister, Catherine (Kit), was murdered under mysterious circumstances and the king's reprisal was HARSH, earning him his terror inducing nickname. Twenty-first century America...The same day Emmie Grace is assigned an essay on the infamous king Nicholas, she also is in possession of a bizarre ring. A time travel ring. If Emmie is going to try and find out who is responsible for Kit's murder, she better work fast!
Okay, I am the worst Sherlock Homeboy in history of all history. I did NOT see THAT coming. Like...
Ultimate shock! And Nick. *sighs dreamily*. Funny and a king. Merciful and kind. He is like the eye-candy boss. The last 30% of the book is nail biting! I was breathless with anticipation. And anxiety! Suspense!
HOW IS THIS GOING TO PLAY OUT? Stakes are high, hearts are pounding, eye balls are being willed to read FASTER! Don't worry, you'll be able to breathe again. What an adventure. Emmie and the Tudor King is an enchanting time travel romance, that YA bookworms need to read!
READ IF YOU LIKE:
-star crossed love stories
-dreamy kings
-solving mysteries like a sleuth
-YA sci-fi
-time travel
-#IsThisAKissingBook: "I ache to kiss you"
-16th century Tudor England
Thank you Natalie Murray for an advanced copy!
Song: King and Lionheart by Of Monsters and Men
June 6, 2022
I remember that I added this book to my wishlist long before its release date. I'm not a history geek, but I love all the dramatic and bloody stories from the Tudor court. Combine that with time traveling, a romance and a touch of mystery and you get the kind of book I would like. For some reason I never got the book and never read it until I all of a sudden saw it on BookSirens, ready to request. I didn't know how fast to click that button to get it.
And this story was everything I had hoped it would be! I was quite surprised that the time traveling started so soon already. We barely had gotten the time to get to know our heroine and then we already landed in the Tudor court getting very familiar with the Tower of London. However, after that we get more than enough time to get to know our heroine. Especially because it's quite hard to put the book down once you've started reading it.
Although the story is of course not entirely historically correct, the characters after all are invented and based on a what if scenario, it does feel historically correct. Murray clearly did a great job studying the Tudors, their way of handling issues and dealing with the paranoia they're constantly carrying with them. That means that our hero is absolutely no angel and has no clean hands, even though most of the horrible things he does happen off page.
I therefore sometimes had issues buying the love story. I understand that our king is incredibly handsome and can be quite charming, but it's also clear he's stiffened by the politics and the people around him whispering in his ear what he should and shouldn't do. It's therefore hard to get a feel for who the king truly is deep down. I however have two more books waiting for me to read and I hope to get to see more of the person behind the crown in those!
And this story was everything I had hoped it would be! I was quite surprised that the time traveling started so soon already. We barely had gotten the time to get to know our heroine and then we already landed in the Tudor court getting very familiar with the Tower of London. However, after that we get more than enough time to get to know our heroine. Especially because it's quite hard to put the book down once you've started reading it.
Although the story is of course not entirely historically correct, the characters after all are invented and based on a what if scenario, it does feel historically correct. Murray clearly did a great job studying the Tudors, their way of handling issues and dealing with the paranoia they're constantly carrying with them. That means that our hero is absolutely no angel and has no clean hands, even though most of the horrible things he does happen off page.
I therefore sometimes had issues buying the love story. I understand that our king is incredibly handsome and can be quite charming, but it's also clear he's stiffened by the politics and the people around him whispering in his ear what he should and shouldn't do. It's therefore hard to get a feel for who the king truly is deep down. I however have two more books waiting for me to read and I hope to get to see more of the person behind the crown in those!
March 12, 2022
But what if being near you is what makes it harder for me to breathe?"
Emmie and the Tudor king is the perfect mix of history and make believe.
Emmie finds herself in quite the predicamen as she wakes up somewhere else... and 400 years in the past.
Can Emmie change the coarse of history to save the beautiful man who has stolen glances, time, and her heart?
Or will the sweet king end up the way the history books write him?
The Tudors may be a baaaad news in history, but Natalie writes Nicholas as the king of your dreams. I mean I like my men strong and in control but... wow... the death threats of the monarchy...
Who knew stares across a room, hand holding and stolen kisses could ignite something so fierce in my wanton heart.
What I loved:
-the time period SWOON
-the Tudor Dynasty
-the sweet romance
-a quick one day read that left me smiling
-a little bit of "how dun it"
What was missing:
-honestly, nothing... it wasn't difficult to read and I found myself doing chores with my nose in my book..... I think I just left wanting MORE, so I cannot wait for book 2!
Thank you Natalie Murray for my gifted copy I will cherish it always.
Rating:
story-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
trope- written in history
steam-if kissing does it for ya you're in for a REEEEEAAAAAL treat
Song- I Found by Amber Run
Emmie and the Tudor king is the perfect mix of history and make believe.
Emmie finds herself in quite the predicamen as she wakes up somewhere else... and 400 years in the past.
Can Emmie change the coarse of history to save the beautiful man who has stolen glances, time, and her heart?
Or will the sweet king end up the way the history books write him?
The Tudors may be a baaaad news in history, but Natalie writes Nicholas as the king of your dreams. I mean I like my men strong and in control but... wow... the death threats of the monarchy...
Who knew stares across a room, hand holding and stolen kisses could ignite something so fierce in my wanton heart.
What I loved:
-the time period SWOON
-the Tudor Dynasty
-the sweet romance
-a quick one day read that left me smiling
-a little bit of "how dun it"
What was missing:
-honestly, nothing... it wasn't difficult to read and I found myself doing chores with my nose in my book..... I think I just left wanting MORE, so I cannot wait for book 2!
Thank you Natalie Murray for my gifted copy I will cherish it always.
Rating:
story-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
trope- written in history
steam-if kissing does it for ya you're in for a REEEEEAAAAAL treat
Song- I Found by Amber Run
June 10, 2021
Where do I even begin with this review? I genuinely do not think anything could make me love this more than I do!
Historical fiction has not been my go-to genre in the past but Natalie Murray has me desperate for more of this time travel historical romance! I went into this believing the second book has already released, so imagine my surprise when I finish this at midnight, willing to risk it all in my eagerness to continue this series, only to realize I played myself and the next doesn’t release until July. I guess now I have to go to bed… or I’ll just reread my favorite swoony bits.
What I loved:
- sweet romance with a dash of danger
- a great “who dun it” plot line that had me (incorrectly) guessing and sleuthing
- have I mentioned the time travel? IT WAS AWESOME!
- Emmie’s ability to blend in to 16th century England
- the characters. I loved them all! And especially loved seeing Emmie grow throughout the book.
- the Tudor dynasty. I wasn’t super familiar with any of the Tudor history, so this was especially neat to learn about!
What I didn’t love:
- I apparently dreamed up the second book already being available. I AM SUFFERING.
- I now have a Nick sized hole in my heart.
Thank you Natalie Murray for sending me a copy of this one! I’m so looking forward to the moment the next is in my possession!
Historical fiction has not been my go-to genre in the past but Natalie Murray has me desperate for more of this time travel historical romance! I went into this believing the second book has already released, so imagine my surprise when I finish this at midnight, willing to risk it all in my eagerness to continue this series, only to realize I played myself and the next doesn’t release until July. I guess now I have to go to bed… or I’ll just reread my favorite swoony bits.
What I loved:
- sweet romance with a dash of danger
- a great “who dun it” plot line that had me (incorrectly) guessing and sleuthing
- have I mentioned the time travel? IT WAS AWESOME!
- Emmie’s ability to blend in to 16th century England
- the characters. I loved them all! And especially loved seeing Emmie grow throughout the book.
- the Tudor dynasty. I wasn’t super familiar with any of the Tudor history, so this was especially neat to learn about!
What I didn’t love:
- I apparently dreamed up the second book already being available. I AM SUFFERING.
- I now have a Nick sized hole in my heart.
Thank you Natalie Murray for sending me a copy of this one! I’m so looking forward to the moment the next is in my possession!
October 5, 2019
Yes to this book! It's like a YA Outlander mash up and it make my historical fiction loving heart happy! The book has such a cool concept in relation to time travel (you put on a ring and fall asleep, you wake up back in time, do it again to return to your own time). There are a few bigger story plot twists that I can't wait to see how they a
Ll work out in the next books. Nick is broody and amazing. I love Emmie and it may be strange but I think the fact she wants to be a jewellery designer is so cool! Love it and can't wait for the T instalment!
Ll work out in the next books. Nick is broody and amazing. I love Emmie and it may be strange but I think the fact she wants to be a jewellery designer is so cool! Love it and can't wait for the T instalment!
June 24, 2019
A mix of history, time-travel, and romance, this story will take readers on an exciting adventure, sure to please lovers of both history and fantasy alike.
Read full review in the 2019 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2019 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
May 8, 2022
2.5 stars
May 9, 2019
I have known and been a fan of Natalie for years. I've followed her writing from her Glee fan fiction days, to helping with her "americanisms" in this book. I was so thankful to be able to read this book early. My opinion of Natalie DID NOT sway what I thought of this book. On to the review...
First of all, I love Tudor England, heck all things royal and England. So that paired with the time travel aspect made me want to read this book. The dynamic between Emmie and Nick was well thought out and written. It was a bit fast paced with their attraction, but sometimes that is how it happens. I really enjoyed Emmie going back and forth through time and having meaningful relationships with people in both settings. Secondary characters Kit and Alice were favorites of mine. They were strong in different ways and Kit had a bit of snark for such a young character. An aspect I was not expecting was the mystery and murder, but I loved it. It was woven into the story well and it had me guessing until the very end. I can't wait to see where Emmie and Nick end up next in this trilogy.
First of all, I love Tudor England, heck all things royal and England. So that paired with the time travel aspect made me want to read this book. The dynamic between Emmie and Nick was well thought out and written. It was a bit fast paced with their attraction, but sometimes that is how it happens. I really enjoyed Emmie going back and forth through time and having meaningful relationships with people in both settings. Secondary characters Kit and Alice were favorites of mine. They were strong in different ways and Kit had a bit of snark for such a young character. An aspect I was not expecting was the mystery and murder, but I loved it. It was woven into the story well and it had me guessing until the very end. I can't wait to see where Emmie and Nick end up next in this trilogy.
September 3, 2019
I am so excited about this book because the premise was super cool. The premise remind me of isekai manhwa that I am currently obsessed.
(FYI: Isekai is portal fantasy subgenre of light novels, manga, anime, and video games. Isekai works revolve around a normal person from Earth being transported to, reborn, or trapped in a parallel universe, usually a fantasy world)
I love the mystery, the plot and how it unravel. The pace is slow at the beginning but becoming better afterward.
The story remind me of isekai manga like Inuyasha, where the protagonist, Kagome, a young girl travel to feudal Japan.
But in Emmie and Tudor King, our protagonist, Emmie travel to Tudor era.
Beside the time travel aspect, Kagome and Emmie share same characteristic.
They are adventurous, brave to voice their opinion, and have courage to stand up for others.
If Emmie sorted to Hogwart houses, I believe she will end up in Gryffindor.
I recommended Emmie and Tudor King for one who loves time travel story, isekai story like Inuyasha and Gryffindor main character.
(FYI: Isekai is portal fantasy subgenre of light novels, manga, anime, and video games. Isekai works revolve around a normal person from Earth being transported to, reborn, or trapped in a parallel universe, usually a fantasy world)
I love the mystery, the plot and how it unravel. The pace is slow at the beginning but becoming better afterward.
The story remind me of isekai manga like Inuyasha, where the protagonist, Kagome, a young girl travel to feudal Japan.
But in Emmie and Tudor King, our protagonist, Emmie travel to Tudor era.
Beside the time travel aspect, Kagome and Emmie share same characteristic.
They are adventurous, brave to voice their opinion, and have courage to stand up for others.
If Emmie sorted to Hogwart houses, I believe she will end up in Gryffindor.
I recommended Emmie and Tudor King for one who loves time travel story, isekai story like Inuyasha and Gryffindor main character.
December 12, 2019
Fabulous Immersive Love Story
From chapter one, Murray immerses you into a world you’re loathe to leave. I felt like I was travelling in time along with Emmie. Highly recommend if you enjoy swoony romances, strong heroines, and men you wish weren’t just on paper (ha-ha). I loved this book and highly, highly recommend when you have an entire day to devote to reading because you won’t want to put it down.
From chapter one, Murray immerses you into a world you’re loathe to leave. I felt like I was travelling in time along with Emmie. Highly recommend if you enjoy swoony romances, strong heroines, and men you wish weren’t just on paper (ha-ha). I loved this book and highly, highly recommend when you have an entire day to devote to reading because you won’t want to put it down.
August 16, 2023
OK, so. Y'all know I'm SUPER into time travel romance. You might or might not know that I love Doctor Who (Eleven is the best, HEYOOO). You probably don't know that in high school I was SUPER into Tudor historical fiction - I DEVOURED that stuff. So, when I FINALLY picked up Emmie and the Tudor King, my first thought was OMG ITS LIKE THIS BOOK WAS WRITTEN JUST FOR ME. I'm still kind of flipping out about how perfect this book is - it's got all the aspects of time travel that I like, the characters are fun, the setting is FABULOUS. I'm just obsessed.
When high school senior Emmie buys a beautiful antique ring at a yard sale, she doesn't think much of it - until she goes to sleep and wakes up in Tudor England. Thrown into a dungeon for trespassing on King Nicholas's land, she is eventually able to get past everyone's suspicions when the king meets her and brings her to court. Emmie is enjoying being in the past until she remembers that King Nick spirals into one of the bloodiest monarchs in history after his younger sister is murdered - an event set to occur soon. In an effort to thwart the event, she starts looking around for suspects, while also drawing the king's eye. Will Emmie be able to save the king from his awful future? And what does it mean that they seem to be falling for each other at the same time?
While most of the time travel books I've read have been intense and angsty, this book is definitely more on the fun and light side (despite some of the heavy subject material). No one dwells too much on the mechanics of time travel, and while differences between the two time periods are explored, the story isn't bogged down in details either. I don't normally read books with high school-aged characters anymore, but Emmie reads as mature for her age and didn't really get on my nerves. I loved that she could time travel back and forth at will - and I loved even more than Nick could time travel too (something I always appreciate in time travel romance).
I wanted to note that there is a YA and an NA version of this series! I started with the YA version, and the author directed me to towards the NA version (it's listed as the omnibus). The NA version is actually pretty spicy! I'm glad I made the switch, but I'm also glad there are more versions for more people to enjoy.
I'll add more once I've finished the entire series, hopefully I can get through the entire thing now!
When high school senior Emmie buys a beautiful antique ring at a yard sale, she doesn't think much of it - until she goes to sleep and wakes up in Tudor England. Thrown into a dungeon for trespassing on King Nicholas's land, she is eventually able to get past everyone's suspicions when the king meets her and brings her to court. Emmie is enjoying being in the past until she remembers that King Nick spirals into one of the bloodiest monarchs in history after his younger sister is murdered - an event set to occur soon. In an effort to thwart the event, she starts looking around for suspects, while also drawing the king's eye. Will Emmie be able to save the king from his awful future? And what does it mean that they seem to be falling for each other at the same time?
While most of the time travel books I've read have been intense and angsty, this book is definitely more on the fun and light side (despite some of the heavy subject material). No one dwells too much on the mechanics of time travel, and while differences between the two time periods are explored, the story isn't bogged down in details either. I don't normally read books with high school-aged characters anymore, but Emmie reads as mature for her age and didn't really get on my nerves. I loved that she could time travel back and forth at will - and I loved even more than Nick could time travel too (something I always appreciate in time travel romance).
I wanted to note that there is a YA and an NA version of this series! I started with the YA version, and the author directed me to towards the NA version (it's listed as the omnibus). The NA version is actually pretty spicy! I'm glad I made the switch, but I'm also glad there are more versions for more people to enjoy.
I'll add more once I've finished the entire series, hopefully I can get through the entire thing now!
May 26, 2020
I received this book from the author, Natalie Murray, in exchange for an honest review, and I am so glad to say that I absolutely loved this book! Since I discovered Six: The Musical I have been wanting to read some books on the Tudor era, and this fulfilled all of my wishes and more, with ties to King Henry VIII and his six wives, while creating a whole new story to swoon over.
"[Queen] Elizabeth dies unmarried with no heirs, despite a suspected romance with the Earl of Leicester, Robert Dudley.
Or not.
What if Queen Elizabeth I married her beloved Robert Dudley and gave birth to a son in 1560? A son that would become the last, and most notorious, Tudor monarch of all...
Nicholas the Ironheart."
Murray beautifully spins the fictitious tale of King Nicholas I of 16th century London, England, and Emmie Grace of 21st century Hatfield, Massachusetts. When Emmie comes into possession of a ring once belonging to the English Royal Family, she is thrust into 16th century London, living alongside King Nick, instead of writing her English paper on Nicholas the Ironheart with her best friend, Mia.
Emmie goes back and forth between Hatfield and London throughout the novel, and the contrasts between the 16th and 21st centuries are so beautifully written; it feels as if you are being transported between the centuries and living right alongside Emmie throughout her adventures. Watching Emmie adapt to the 16th-century clothing and way of living is not only entertaining, but it feels as if you are also adapting; once she is back in the present-day, you feel jolted back into the present as well.
The romance between Emmie and King Nick is a wonderfully fabricated, star-crossed lovers story, and it leaves so much more to be wanted! (Thankfully, there is a second book, otherwise I would be eternally begging for more content.) Through the ups and downs, the twisting of emotions, the fast-paced changing of history, you are always kept guessing and trying to determine whether or not Emmie will finally win over her King, and whether or not she can change the course of history to ensure that King Nicholas I never becomes Nicholas the Ironheart.
I recommend this book to all lovers of historical fiction, historical fantasy, historical romance, romance, the Tudor Era, King Henry VIII, and Six: The Musical.
"[Queen] Elizabeth dies unmarried with no heirs, despite a suspected romance with the Earl of Leicester, Robert Dudley.
Or not.
What if Queen Elizabeth I married her beloved Robert Dudley and gave birth to a son in 1560? A son that would become the last, and most notorious, Tudor monarch of all...
Nicholas the Ironheart."
Murray beautifully spins the fictitious tale of King Nicholas I of 16th century London, England, and Emmie Grace of 21st century Hatfield, Massachusetts. When Emmie comes into possession of a ring once belonging to the English Royal Family, she is thrust into 16th century London, living alongside King Nick, instead of writing her English paper on Nicholas the Ironheart with her best friend, Mia.
Emmie goes back and forth between Hatfield and London throughout the novel, and the contrasts between the 16th and 21st centuries are so beautifully written; it feels as if you are being transported between the centuries and living right alongside Emmie throughout her adventures. Watching Emmie adapt to the 16th-century clothing and way of living is not only entertaining, but it feels as if you are also adapting; once she is back in the present-day, you feel jolted back into the present as well.
The romance between Emmie and King Nick is a wonderfully fabricated, star-crossed lovers story, and it leaves so much more to be wanted! (Thankfully, there is a second book, otherwise I would be eternally begging for more content.) Through the ups and downs, the twisting of emotions, the fast-paced changing of history, you are always kept guessing and trying to determine whether or not Emmie will finally win over her King, and whether or not she can change the course of history to ensure that King Nicholas I never becomes Nicholas the Ironheart.
I recommend this book to all lovers of historical fiction, historical fantasy, historical romance, romance, the Tudor Era, King Henry VIII, and Six: The Musical.
August 31, 2019
If I could choose two genres I hardly ever read, it would be historical fiction and romance. So, let me just say, Natalie Murray has taken a reader who doesn't usually read this genre and made me love this book!
Emmie is just a girl trying to put together a school history paper on a long dead, and particularly brutal, king. Until she comes across an intriguing old ring, falls asleep with it on and finds herself transported back 400 years in the past - directly into the realm of the notorious king. The thing is, he doesn't look so fearsome, he's actually "pants dropping gorgeous". As Emmie heads back and forth through time, she realises the young, seemingly kind king, became the bloodthirsty murderer, written in the history books, after his sister was murdered. Can Emmie solve the murder she knows is coming, and save his beloved sister? Should she? And how, among all the secrets and lies she has to feed the court, can she deal with the fact that she is falling in love with one of the most feared kings of all time?
I absolutely loved the time travel aspect of this book. Switching between the current world and the lives of those in the past was fascinating and kept me glued to the page. The characters were really well developed, even the side ones, and the mystery was intriguing, with plenty of twists. If you don't know much about the Tudor's or that era (like me), don't let that stop you reading this super fun book! There's a short historical rundown of the House of Tudor line at the front of the book, and that was all I needed to understand where the characters fit into the story.
As soon as I finished reading, I immediately checked whether this was a standalone or the first in a series, and was so excited to see that it is going to be a trilogy! I can't wait for the next book!
MY BLOG ~ INSTAGRAM
Emmie is just a girl trying to put together a school history paper on a long dead, and particularly brutal, king. Until she comes across an intriguing old ring, falls asleep with it on and finds herself transported back 400 years in the past - directly into the realm of the notorious king. The thing is, he doesn't look so fearsome, he's actually "pants dropping gorgeous". As Emmie heads back and forth through time, she realises the young, seemingly kind king, became the bloodthirsty murderer, written in the history books, after his sister was murdered. Can Emmie solve the murder she knows is coming, and save his beloved sister? Should she? And how, among all the secrets and lies she has to feed the court, can she deal with the fact that she is falling in love with one of the most feared kings of all time?
I absolutely loved the time travel aspect of this book. Switching between the current world and the lives of those in the past was fascinating and kept me glued to the page. The characters were really well developed, even the side ones, and the mystery was intriguing, with plenty of twists. If you don't know much about the Tudor's or that era (like me), don't let that stop you reading this super fun book! There's a short historical rundown of the House of Tudor line at the front of the book, and that was all I needed to understand where the characters fit into the story.
As soon as I finished reading, I immediately checked whether this was a standalone or the first in a series, and was so excited to see that it is going to be a trilogy! I can't wait for the next book!
MY BLOG ~ INSTAGRAM
June 8, 2021
Holly guacamole!!!!! I freaking loved this book with all my heart. This book was perfection in every sense. The storyline and characters were amazing. I started this book this morning and I finish it this afternoon cause I couldn’t stop reading it. This book is now one of my favourite books ever. I highly recommend it. It deserves all the stars😭❤️😍
August 20, 2023
Interesting historical fiction, time travel, tudor time period. I think it was The last two chapters I had to skim /skipmostly because it was teasing sexual tension that dragged on. No sex, which may be important for folks to know, just mature sexual foreplay but easily skipable. Really not applicable to the story and could have been avoided.
November 10, 2021
This story grabs you from the very beginning and doesn't let go. I loved this adventure. My Outlander loving heart couldn't get enough of this strange romance through time, and the royal political intrigue is perfectly reminiscent of the TV show Reign. Outlander and Reign fans rejoice! This book is for you!
I loved the twisty plot, complete with an almost murder mystery, and all the angst. This romance was a whirlwind from the very beginning and deliciously forbidden.
This was a super fun read and I highly recommend it.
I loved the twisty plot, complete with an almost murder mystery, and all the angst. This romance was a whirlwind from the very beginning and deliciously forbidden.
This was a super fun read and I highly recommend it.
July 20, 2021
I could NOT stop reading this book.
Time travel was never written so well. Honestly, I questioned if I would like it due to it involving time travel but my goodness I was wrong. Natalie Murray did wonderful describing where the main character travelled too which allowed me to have a mental image of her surroundings.
The romance was perfect with sweet gestures and sayings that made my heart flutter. Not only did it have romance but it also had some mystery which had me second guessing who the real Villian was until the very end.
"But what if being near you is what makes it hard for me to breath?" He held my cheek, softly stroking it with his thumb.
I already have the second book and excited to see what happens next for the King and Emmie.
Time travel was never written so well. Honestly, I questioned if I would like it due to it involving time travel but my goodness I was wrong. Natalie Murray did wonderful describing where the main character travelled too which allowed me to have a mental image of her surroundings.
The romance was perfect with sweet gestures and sayings that made my heart flutter. Not only did it have romance but it also had some mystery which had me second guessing who the real Villian was until the very end.
"But what if being near you is what makes it hard for me to breath?" He held my cheek, softly stroking it with his thumb.
I already have the second book and excited to see what happens next for the King and Emmie.
September 21, 2022
Hi, lovely readers! If you enjoyed this series but wanted more spice—or, if you want to read it but prefer open-door romance—a New Adult version of the Emmie and the Tudor King trilogy releases on Sept 28, 2022, which is the entire series in one omnibus set, adapted for a mature audience with added spice.
Here are the links!
ORDER LINKS (ebook, paperback, hardcover): https://books2read.com/u/3kYrkG
KINDLE UNLIMITED: https://amzn.to/3BwbOBS
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Also, if you have time to leave a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads, I would much appreciate it! Reviews really help indie authors find readers.
Thank you so much!
Natalie x
Here are the links!
ORDER LINKS (ebook, paperback, hardcover): https://books2read.com/u/3kYrkG
KINDLE UNLIMITED: https://amzn.to/3BwbOBS
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Also, if you have time to leave a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads, I would much appreciate it! Reviews really help indie authors find readers.
Thank you so much!
Natalie x
September 21, 2022
Hi, lovely readers! If you enjoyed this series but wanted more spice—or, if you want to read it but prefer open-door romance—a New Adult version of the Emmie and the Tudor King trilogy releases on Sept 28, 2022, which is the entire series in one omnibus set, adapted for a mature audience with added spice.
Here are the links!
ORDER LINKS (ebook, paperback, hardcover): https://books2read.com/u/3kYrkG
KINDLE UNLIMITED: https://amzn.to/3BwbOBS
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Also, if you have time to leave a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads, I would much appreciate it! Reviews really help indie authors find readers.
Thank you so much!
Natalie x
Here are the links!
ORDER LINKS (ebook, paperback, hardcover): https://books2read.com/u/3kYrkG
KINDLE UNLIMITED: https://amzn.to/3BwbOBS
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Also, if you have time to leave a review on Amazon and/or Goodreads, I would much appreciate it! Reviews really help indie authors find readers.
Thank you so much!
Natalie x
May 1, 2019
I loved King Nick. He’s the perfect king in this alternate history of the Tudor line.
March 27, 2022
Emmie, along with her high school best friend Mia, is working on a history paper. They are writing on Nicholas the Ironheart, the son of Queen Elizabeth I and the last Tudor King of England. As Emmie heads out the door to meet Mia, she stops at old Jane Stuart’s yard sale - hoping to find something she can use for her jewelry design. Instead, she finds a unique ring that looks incredibly valuable.
Later, when Emmie falls asleep while wearing the ring, she awakens 400 years back in time…
After being shot with an arrow by some guards, she is taken to the Tower of London to await His Majesty, King Nicholas.
This is a fun and sweet young romance with a bit of suspense. I enjoyed the time travel, and although the historical aspect is truly fictional, it was an interesting take on the Tudor House. I thought Emmie’s character seemed a little young and underdeveloped, to begin with, but as the story progressed, I could see her growth. As this is a series, I imagine each book will allow the characters to mature and evolve.
Later, when Emmie falls asleep while wearing the ring, she awakens 400 years back in time…
After being shot with an arrow by some guards, she is taken to the Tower of London to await His Majesty, King Nicholas.
This is a fun and sweet young romance with a bit of suspense. I enjoyed the time travel, and although the historical aspect is truly fictional, it was an interesting take on the Tudor House. I thought Emmie’s character seemed a little young and underdeveloped, to begin with, but as the story progressed, I could see her growth. As this is a series, I imagine each book will allow the characters to mature and evolve.
January 4, 2020
Oh my god. This book was utter PERFECTION. I have honestly not devoured a book like this in what feels like close to a year! I kid you not.
I just loved everything about it. I couldn’t put it down!
The story line (time travel back to a historical place, ughhh always my favourite), the characters were brilliant, the love story... wow I couldn’t have asked for more! I felt such chemistry and allure between our two love interests. I also loved that so much happened and there was so many “my heart” moments. I feel like this would make a great TV series in the hands of a genius director! Outlander vibes..
Honestly, this book was a dream and you need to read it NOW!
I just loved everything about it. I couldn’t put it down!
The story line (time travel back to a historical place, ughhh always my favourite), the characters were brilliant, the love story... wow I couldn’t have asked for more! I felt such chemistry and allure between our two love interests. I also loved that so much happened and there was so many “my heart” moments. I feel like this would make a great TV series in the hands of a genius director! Outlander vibes..
Honestly, this book was a dream and you need to read it NOW!
October 8, 2022
I adored this story!!! I love the time traveling aspect and the change to history to continue the Tudor line. And the twist with Emmie leaving possibly being the reason that Nick became cold hearted and heartless is freaking genius! Maybe she was meant to be there all along. I definitely want to see how in the world this relationship is going to work. There are so many changes for a woman to go through from the 21st century to the 16th century and not really any good ones. She must really love nick because I wouldn't give my freedom up. There is so much that has to be unraveled and how it all will be balanced.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews