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Regency Royals #5
The Queen’s Man
The final book in the Regency Royals series by USA TODAY Bestselling Author Jess Michaels.
Queen Giabella of Athawick should be happy. Her children are all married and in love, her land is at last at peace and she’s about to have more freedom than she’s experienced in her whole life. And yet she’s…restless. Only one man has been able to settle her during times of trouble: her longtime personal secretary, Dashiell Talbot. So when they’re asked to do a tour of Athawick to celebrate their upcoming democratic elections, she knows she’ll be well taken care of. And she agrees.
Dash has served his queen for a decade and it has been the joy of his life. And the challenge, considering all he ever wants to do is touch her. But that is not his place and he has always been able to control himself before, nothing will be different now.
Except that Gia is starting to have trouble controlling her own desires and everything that has been hidden, suppressed, denied is about to bubble to the surface with an explosion of powerful passion. Will they be able to find a path to a real future? Or will the past keep them apart once again?
Heat Level: A passion worth waiting for!
Queen Giabella of Athawick should be happy. Her children are all married and in love, her land is at last at peace and she’s about to have more freedom than she’s experienced in her whole life. And yet she’s…restless. Only one man has been able to settle her during times of trouble: her longtime personal secretary, Dashiell Talbot. So when they’re asked to do a tour of Athawick to celebrate their upcoming democratic elections, she knows she’ll be well taken care of. And she agrees.
Dash has served his queen for a decade and it has been the joy of his life. And the challenge, considering all he ever wants to do is touch her. But that is not his place and he has always been able to control himself before, nothing will be different now.
Except that Gia is starting to have trouble controlling her own desires and everything that has been hidden, suppressed, denied is about to bubble to the surface with an explosion of powerful passion. Will they be able to find a path to a real future? Or will the past keep them apart once again?
Heat Level: A passion worth waiting for!
135 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2022
About the author
Jess Michaels
124 books1,585 followersJess Michaels is a USA Today Bestselling Author who likes geeky stuff like Star Wars, playing video games (she ships herself with Dragon Age’s Iron Bull FOREVER), Bob’s Burgers and collecting POPs! She also drinks a LOT of Diet Coke. Probably an unhealthy amount, but it’s her only vice. She will eat (almost) anything coconut, truly anything cheesy and nothing spicy (yes, she is a walking stereotype when it comes to that). She likes cats, her dog Elton and people who care about the welfare of their fellow humans.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 26, 2022
Queen Giabella of Athawick is at a crossroads. Her children are all well married and, with her country's new government, she’s about to have more freedom than she’s ever experienced in her life. Dashiel Talbot has served his queen faithfully for a decade, secretly in love with her the whole time. During a diplomatic trip, Gia and Dash are finally able to express the feelings that have been suppressed for so long.
This is book five of the Regency Royals series. The story can stand alone, but I recommend reading the whole series if you like large family dynamics. It's a lovely second chance romance with a "seasoned" couple. Their chemistry was wonderful, and they’re both great characters who deserve - and find - their happiness. I liked seeing Gia and Dash gently tumble over the friendship line after keeping their feelings in for years. I especially liked seeing Gia's sons nudge her and Dash into reaching out and taking what's right in front of them. I only wish it had been a bit longer!
Tropes: Royalty, Widow, Forced Proximity, Employer/Employee, Friends to Lovers, Road Trip, Secret Crush, Older Couple
Steam: 4
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #TheQueensMan #NetGalley
This is book five of the Regency Royals series. The story can stand alone, but I recommend reading the whole series if you like large family dynamics. It's a lovely second chance romance with a "seasoned" couple. Their chemistry was wonderful, and they’re both great characters who deserve - and find - their happiness. I liked seeing Gia and Dash gently tumble over the friendship line after keeping their feelings in for years. I especially liked seeing Gia's sons nudge her and Dash into reaching out and taking what's right in front of them. I only wish it had been a bit longer!
Tropes: Royalty, Widow, Forced Proximity, Employer/Employee, Friends to Lovers, Road Trip, Secret Crush, Older Couple
Steam: 4
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #TheQueensMan #NetGalley
March 18, 2022
A romance between a dowager Queen and her pining personal secretary (who are both 50+ years old btw!!) who finally allow themselves to give in to their love PLUS this cover??? Come on, a must read.
I absolutely did not read the first four books in this series, and based on other reviews I've read you get hints of Queen Giabella of Athawick and Dashiell Talbot's romance in the previous books, but I will absolutely be checking them out now.
Fun to be in a world that is set in a fake monarchy on an island in a Regency era setting, plus seeing two adults find their HEA after so long, the best!
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy - Jess Michaels is about to celebrate her 100th !!! novel release, so if you need a new to you, spicy historical romance author to jump into, here's a perfect choice.
CW: death of spouse, grief, mention of infidelity (not of main characters)
I absolutely did not read the first four books in this series, and based on other reviews I've read you get hints of Queen Giabella of Athawick and Dashiell Talbot's romance in the previous books, but I will absolutely be checking them out now.
Fun to be in a world that is set in a fake monarchy on an island in a Regency era setting, plus seeing two adults find their HEA after so long, the best!
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy - Jess Michaels is about to celebrate her 100th !!! novel release, so if you need a new to you, spicy historical romance author to jump into, here's a perfect choice.
CW: death of spouse, grief, mention of infidelity (not of main characters)
February 24, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
As her country is in the dawn of a new era, Queen Giabella of Athawick starts to look at her future. As the queen mother, she has had to hold herself aloof from her country, and only the love of her people, her children, and her loyal advisor, Dashiell Talbot, is what keeps her going. Since he joined her service 15 years ago, Giabella has loved Dash, but being married to the despot king, and also thinking herself too old to deserve happiness, she's never acted on her feelings. But now that she has been asked to tour the south of the country, with Dash by her side, she can't hold back, and she wants to explore her feelings and desires, especially as she sees them reflected in Dash. Dash, for himself, has loved Gia from the moment he set eyes on her, and seeing her love for Sasha, the orphaned child he's come to love as his own, and that Gia adopted, and her other children, made him want her more. Being by her side, day by day, is tough, but he would do everything to be with her, and sees himself as too low to be with a queen. Can they both allow themselves the chance for happiness - either only for a few days, or for the long term - before their lives change completely?
I've been waiting for this book ever since I read To Protect a Princess. Every time we saw Gia and Dash, we could see the longing and love between them, but forces have pulled them apart for so long. Now that all of the children are happily married, and starting their own lives and futures, Gia should be able to find her peace - but Dash is always in her thoughts, and she can't reconcile herself with being the queen, and being with him. She has hang ups from her marriage to the late king, and Dash seems too perfect for her. But learning that he wants to leave her side, and join the newly formed government, she feels loss and pain, and will do anything she can to be with him, even only for a few nights. This relationship has got to be one of the slowest burners ever - lasting over 15 years, but it was executed perfectly. Because of how well they both know each other, it's easy, once they get over their demons, for them to love each other. One of my favourite scenes - apart from the epilogue - was when King Grantham spoke to Dash, and I adore how well Dash is thought of, and loved, as a family member. In my opinion, the perfect ending to the series, and I can't wait for Jess' 100th book!
As her country is in the dawn of a new era, Queen Giabella of Athawick starts to look at her future. As the queen mother, she has had to hold herself aloof from her country, and only the love of her people, her children, and her loyal advisor, Dashiell Talbot, is what keeps her going. Since he joined her service 15 years ago, Giabella has loved Dash, but being married to the despot king, and also thinking herself too old to deserve happiness, she's never acted on her feelings. But now that she has been asked to tour the south of the country, with Dash by her side, she can't hold back, and she wants to explore her feelings and desires, especially as she sees them reflected in Dash. Dash, for himself, has loved Gia from the moment he set eyes on her, and seeing her love for Sasha, the orphaned child he's come to love as his own, and that Gia adopted, and her other children, made him want her more. Being by her side, day by day, is tough, but he would do everything to be with her, and sees himself as too low to be with a queen. Can they both allow themselves the chance for happiness - either only for a few days, or for the long term - before their lives change completely?
I've been waiting for this book ever since I read To Protect a Princess. Every time we saw Gia and Dash, we could see the longing and love between them, but forces have pulled them apart for so long. Now that all of the children are happily married, and starting their own lives and futures, Gia should be able to find her peace - but Dash is always in her thoughts, and she can't reconcile herself with being the queen, and being with him. She has hang ups from her marriage to the late king, and Dash seems too perfect for her. But learning that he wants to leave her side, and join the newly formed government, she feels loss and pain, and will do anything she can to be with him, even only for a few nights. This relationship has got to be one of the slowest burners ever - lasting over 15 years, but it was executed perfectly. Because of how well they both know each other, it's easy, once they get over their demons, for them to love each other. One of my favourite scenes - apart from the epilogue - was when King Grantham spoke to Dash, and I adore how well Dash is thought of, and loved, as a family member. In my opinion, the perfect ending to the series, and I can't wait for Jess' 100th book!
March 10, 2022
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Queen Giabella has always done her duty even when that included marrying a cold and heartless man for political gain. During the last years of her marriage, she had Dashiell Talbot who was her trusted confidante, personal secretary, and friend. Dashiell made Gia feel things she had never felt before, but she was always afraid to act on them. Thanks to her matchmaking son, Gia and Dash have the chance to explore their relationship away from prying eyes.
I've been rooting for this couple since the first book. Gia had suffered through marriage with her terrible husband, and I really wanted to see her get her happily ever after. I love the friendship that these two had, and how they really knew each other so well. They were two parts of a whole. It was also nice to read about an older couple. We don't see that a lot in romance, and I was happy to see them get a second chance at love. I think the only thing I had an issue with was that they both gave up so easily when it came to their relationship like where was the fight and the fire? They were just making silly decisions that I didn't understand.
Overall, an easy, quick, and enjoyable read. I have loved this series, and I'm hoping maybe we will see a few characters from this book get their own story. Maybe, just maybe someone could be redeemed a little bit. Fingers crossed.
Queen Giabella has always done her duty even when that included marrying a cold and heartless man for political gain. During the last years of her marriage, she had Dashiell Talbot who was her trusted confidante, personal secretary, and friend. Dashiell made Gia feel things she had never felt before, but she was always afraid to act on them. Thanks to her matchmaking son, Gia and Dash have the chance to explore their relationship away from prying eyes.
I've been rooting for this couple since the first book. Gia had suffered through marriage with her terrible husband, and I really wanted to see her get her happily ever after. I love the friendship that these two had, and how they really knew each other so well. They were two parts of a whole. It was also nice to read about an older couple. We don't see that a lot in romance, and I was happy to see them get a second chance at love. I think the only thing I had an issue with was that they both gave up so easily when it came to their relationship like where was the fight and the fire? They were just making silly decisions that I didn't understand.
Overall, an easy, quick, and enjoyable read. I have loved this series, and I'm hoping maybe we will see a few characters from this book get their own story. Maybe, just maybe someone could be redeemed a little bit. Fingers crossed.
May 9, 2022
This wonderful story is about Dash and Queen Giabella. This story is so sweet - sweet as in two older people fall in love, even though they have loved each other for so many years. Everything just falls into place.
My favourite quotes: Dash says to Gia - "Don't protect me anymore, just tell me the truth of what could be in your heart". Gia answers, "I love you already. I have loved you for years and years and years. And I will love you until I draw my dying breath".
Dash: "If you love me as I love you, if we are talking about a future together, I could not be fully happy unless you were my wife".
I thought this was a lovely well constructed story, and I LOVED IT! 5☆
My favourite quotes: Dash says to Gia - "Don't protect me anymore, just tell me the truth of what could be in your heart". Gia answers, "I love you already. I have loved you for years and years and years. And I will love you until I draw my dying breath".
Dash: "If you love me as I love you, if we are talking about a future together, I could not be fully happy unless you were my wife".
I thought this was a lovely well constructed story, and I LOVED IT! 5☆
March 15, 2022
With all the changes happening in the country and with the monarchy, the soon-to-be-former King Grantham of Athawick asks his mother Queen Giabella to tour the southern part of their Island – to hopefully garner support for Grantham’s run for Prime Minister once he renounces his crown. He suggests that she take her long-time secretary and dearest friend Dashiell Talbot with her. She agrees without question and looks forward to time alone with Dash. She wonders if she will finally have the courage to be honest with him about her feelings, feelings she has had since she meet him and never acted upon, even after being widowed.
Dash has loved Giabella since the moment he met her, but he is a servant and she is a queen, no matter his feelings, he will never be worthy of her. But with the changes coming to their country and the offer of a position in Grantham’s cabinet, he might not be completely worthy, but he will be closer. When Grantham suggests he accompany Gia on her trip, he knows the time has come to tell her the truth of Grantham’s offer, that he will be leaving her employ. But when a moonlit kiss changes everything between them, will they finally give in to the passion that has always simmered between them or will they let duty keep them apart?
This was a fantastic end to this series, and I will be 100% honest – I was shocked to learn that these two were not already lovers – the close connection they have shared since the first book led me to believe they were already secret lovers – so I had a serious NFW moment when I learned that they have never even kissed! The book is short, but it does not skimp on the love scenes, emotion or angst. I loved seeing the past characters living their HEA and was absolutely thrilled for Gia and Dash – theirs was truly a hard-won HEA and rarely I have read that kind of chemistry between characters! This is the fifth and final book in the series and can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading the books in order for the best experience.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Dash has loved Giabella since the moment he met her, but he is a servant and she is a queen, no matter his feelings, he will never be worthy of her. But with the changes coming to their country and the offer of a position in Grantham’s cabinet, he might not be completely worthy, but he will be closer. When Grantham suggests he accompany Gia on her trip, he knows the time has come to tell her the truth of Grantham’s offer, that he will be leaving her employ. But when a moonlit kiss changes everything between them, will they finally give in to the passion that has always simmered between them or will they let duty keep them apart?
This was a fantastic end to this series, and I will be 100% honest – I was shocked to learn that these two were not already lovers – the close connection they have shared since the first book led me to believe they were already secret lovers – so I had a serious NFW moment when I learned that they have never even kissed! The book is short, but it does not skimp on the love scenes, emotion or angst. I loved seeing the past characters living their HEA and was absolutely thrilled for Gia and Dash – theirs was truly a hard-won HEA and rarely I have read that kind of chemistry between characters! This is the fifth and final book in the series and can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading the books in order for the best experience.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
March 10, 2022
4.5 Stars
Queen Giabella of Athawick should be happy not restless. Her children are all married and in love, her land is at last at peace and she’s about to have more freedom than she’s experienced in her whole life. Only one man has been able to settle her during times of trouble: her longtime personal secretary, Dashiell Talbot. So when King Grantham asks her to tour the southern regions of Athawick to celebrate their upcoming democratic elections, she knows she’ll be well taken care of. And she agrees. Dash has served his queen for over a decade and it has been the joy of his life. And the challenge, considering all he ever wants to do is touch her. Gia is starting to have trouble controlling her own desires and everything that has been hidden, suppressed, denied is about to bubble to the surface with an explosion of powerful passion.
What a lovely finale to the series, it rounded off loose ends, it set the scene for the future of Athawick & it was a lovely romance that’s been brewing all the way through the series. I love a romance between an older couple & also a romance from different parts of society. I loved how Dash & Gia found their HEA & also the nudges they were given. A fitting ending to a very good series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Queen Giabella of Athawick should be happy not restless. Her children are all married and in love, her land is at last at peace and she’s about to have more freedom than she’s experienced in her whole life. Only one man has been able to settle her during times of trouble: her longtime personal secretary, Dashiell Talbot. So when King Grantham asks her to tour the southern regions of Athawick to celebrate their upcoming democratic elections, she knows she’ll be well taken care of. And she agrees. Dash has served his queen for over a decade and it has been the joy of his life. And the challenge, considering all he ever wants to do is touch her. Gia is starting to have trouble controlling her own desires and everything that has been hidden, suppressed, denied is about to bubble to the surface with an explosion of powerful passion.
What a lovely finale to the series, it rounded off loose ends, it set the scene for the future of Athawick & it was a lovely romance that’s been brewing all the way through the series. I love a romance between an older couple & also a romance from different parts of society. I loved how Dash & Gia found their HEA & also the nudges they were given. A fitting ending to a very good series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
February 24, 2022
This is the 5th in a Royal Regency series. After getting over the strangeness of some of the names in the made-up country, it’s easy to get into the cast of characters and you don’t need to read the other books.
I grabbed this one because it’s a romance between older characters. You don’t often see regency era love interests over 50.
Widowed (and not unhappily) Giabella is queen mother and the mother of four grown children. Her island country is voting to dissolve the monarchy and become a parliamentary government. She’s been in love with her secretary Dashiell Talbot for years, and he’s felt the same. He’s become almost like a family member but is struggling with wanting more despite their class difference. Dash is about to take a position in the new government and hasn’t had the heart to tell Gia he’s leaving.
In this time of uneasy transition, the two go on a tour to shore up support. The tension between them is unbearable, but Dash struggles with crossing the line.
“She was queen of a nation. He was the man who kept her schedule.”
The regency setting is nonexistent and other aspects of a supposed royal life amid transition is completely unbelievable. The conflict is pretty contrived. But if you want a fun station-clashing romance with older MCs, this is entertaining.
I received an arc from NetGalley
I grabbed this one because it’s a romance between older characters. You don’t often see regency era love interests over 50.
Widowed (and not unhappily) Giabella is queen mother and the mother of four grown children. Her island country is voting to dissolve the monarchy and become a parliamentary government. She’s been in love with her secretary Dashiell Talbot for years, and he’s felt the same. He’s become almost like a family member but is struggling with wanting more despite their class difference. Dash is about to take a position in the new government and hasn’t had the heart to tell Gia he’s leaving.
In this time of uneasy transition, the two go on a tour to shore up support. The tension between them is unbearable, but Dash struggles with crossing the line.
“She was queen of a nation. He was the man who kept her schedule.”
The regency setting is nonexistent and other aspects of a supposed royal life amid transition is completely unbelievable. The conflict is pretty contrived. But if you want a fun station-clashing romance with older MCs, this is entertaining.
I received an arc from NetGalley
March 13, 2022
2.5 stars
I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I hoped. I always liked Giabella and Dash’s relationship in the other books. You just knew they were in love with each other but kept their relationship strictly between queen and secretary. After reading this book I just couldn’t understand what the big deal was of why they couldn’t be together. I felt like they were just holding themselves back for so long they made it bigger than it had to be. I know there is a division between their two roles but I didn’t really get the conflict. This book was shorter than the others. Didn’t really care for the conflict or plot. Also, I felt Dash was a little too overprotective. Then at the end I’m happy to see them together but I didn’t believe in their love. It was like it was more romantic from afar.
I can’t say this is my favorite series Jess Michaels has written. I much prefer the Seasons series, The 1797 Club, The Duke’s By-Blows and The Three Mrs. I’m so excited to see what Jess Michaels will be writing next even if this series didn’t draw me and I didn’t love it as some of her other series. I liked the couples and but overall this series was just okay for me.
*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I hoped. I always liked Giabella and Dash’s relationship in the other books. You just knew they were in love with each other but kept their relationship strictly between queen and secretary. After reading this book I just couldn’t understand what the big deal was of why they couldn’t be together. I felt like they were just holding themselves back for so long they made it bigger than it had to be. I know there is a division between their two roles but I didn’t really get the conflict. This book was shorter than the others. Didn’t really care for the conflict or plot. Also, I felt Dash was a little too overprotective. Then at the end I’m happy to see them together but I didn’t believe in their love. It was like it was more romantic from afar.
I can’t say this is my favorite series Jess Michaels has written. I much prefer the Seasons series, The 1797 Club, The Duke’s By-Blows and The Three Mrs. I’m so excited to see what Jess Michaels will be writing next even if this series didn’t draw me and I didn’t love it as some of her other series. I liked the couples and but overall this series was just okay for me.
*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
March 7, 2022
Finally, the story about Queen Giabella and her secretary Dash! A long unrequited love is pushed to the test when they travel to the countryside on a tour of the country. Dash has to overcome his feeling that he is a mere servant to the queen. The queen has to allow herself to be free to be with Dash. I found the book to be a bit anticlimactic. I was waiting for some big threat to occur that would draw them even closer. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Passionate Pen for my honest review.
March 7, 2022
The Queen’s Man by Jess Michaels
Regency Royals #5
Great way to end the series ~ Loved Gia and Dash finally managing to get their happily ever after1
What I liked:
* That both Gia and Dash were older and yet still young at heart
* The way the wall between Queen and commoner finally came down
* That the two had so valiantly kept apart for so many years
* Who played a bit of secret matchmaker to facilitate the romance
* That I liked both main characters
* Seeing myself, a bit, in the role of Gia
* Catching up with the other couples of the younger generation and seeing how they were doing
* Thinking about how difficult it must have been to not step over the line of propriety with both Gia and Dash caring so much for one another
* The teaser at the end of the story that hints at what the 100th book this author will publish might be about – can’t wait!
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* That this is the end of this wonderful series…
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Regency Royals #5
Great way to end the series ~ Loved Gia and Dash finally managing to get their happily ever after1
What I liked:
* That both Gia and Dash were older and yet still young at heart
* The way the wall between Queen and commoner finally came down
* That the two had so valiantly kept apart for so many years
* Who played a bit of secret matchmaker to facilitate the romance
* That I liked both main characters
* Seeing myself, a bit, in the role of Gia
* Catching up with the other couples of the younger generation and seeing how they were doing
* Thinking about how difficult it must have been to not step over the line of propriety with both Gia and Dash caring so much for one another
* The teaser at the end of the story that hints at what the 100th book this author will publish might be about – can’t wait!
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* That this is the end of this wonderful series…
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
March 11, 2022
Queen Giabella Of Athawick is on her own after her children have grown up and all gotten married. She is at a crossroads in her life - feeling a bit loss about what her role should be and lacking purpose it used to have now that she is the Queen Mother and not the ruling monarch. She spent years of her life dedicated to her country and her children, but they are grown and no longer need her in the same way. Neither does her country..
The one person in her life who hasn't left her side in the past ten years is her personal secretary, Dashiell Talbot. Unbeknownst to Giabella, Dash has been in love with her since they first met, but doesn't feel worthy given he's her employee. Gia has also had feelings for him, but never acted on them.
This book is full of all GOOD things and my favorite tropes - PINING, close proximity, someone playing matchmaker.
What I love about Jess Michael's writing is how fluid it is and the story just seems to flow seamlessly which is the hallmark of an excellent writer. I also love how characters from previous books make cameos on her books. I have never been disappointed in a Jess Michaels book and "The Queen's Man" is no exception. What a delightful conclusion to this series!
The one person in her life who hasn't left her side in the past ten years is her personal secretary, Dashiell Talbot. Unbeknownst to Giabella, Dash has been in love with her since they first met, but doesn't feel worthy given he's her employee. Gia has also had feelings for him, but never acted on them.
This book is full of all GOOD things and my favorite tropes - PINING, close proximity, someone playing matchmaker.
What I love about Jess Michael's writing is how fluid it is and the story just seems to flow seamlessly which is the hallmark of an excellent writer. I also love how characters from previous books make cameos on her books. I have never been disappointed in a Jess Michaels book and "The Queen's Man" is no exception. What a delightful conclusion to this series!
July 30, 2024
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more from author Jess Michaels.
5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book from the author/publisher via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. 🦄
⭐️When possible reviews are cross-posted on the following:
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🦄
5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book from the author/publisher via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. 🦄
⭐️When possible reviews are cross-posted on the following:
✔️Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/jaime-loves...
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March 7, 2022
I adored Giabella and Dash's story!! Through out this whole series, you could see the heat between these two and they finally get their moment!!! So glad that Michaels gave them their HEA!!
March 16, 2022
3.5 stars
This is the final book in the Regency Royals series, and it features widowed Queen Giabella and her personal secretary/man of affairs Dashiell Talbot. Though it is not strictly necessary to read all of the previous books in the series, I would highly recommend it as the earlier 4 stories feature Queen Giabella's children, and this story picks up where the most recent book ended.
In the first four stories, the reader becomes well acquainted with the Queen as the mother of the children that are the H/h characters in the previous books and Dash, the man that has been at her side for fifteen years to ensure her needs are met. In addition, Dash is somewhat of a surrogate father to her children, and a father in practice to her adopted daughter (h of book 2 in the series). There has always been a strong connection between the two, but neither has nor feels they can act on the palpable passion. Not only was the Queen married when they first met, but the timeless class issue has also always been an obstacle as Gia is royalty and Dash is a servant.
Things are rapidly changing in the kingdom since Grantham, Gia's older son, took over when her husband died, and Athawick is making the move towards a more democratic style of government. Grantham is running for the prime minister role, and asks his mother to tour the southern region of the country to drum up support for his candidacy. He has also asked Dash, who has not only been a counsel to his mother but to him over the years as well, to take a role in the cabinet as he truly values his wisdom and input. While Dash quietly contemplates the offer, he is asked to accompany the Queen on her tour... a tour through a very romantic region of the country with only the two of them (with some security and Gia's maid) for the duration.
Gia has grown tired of having feelings she has never felt before and not acting on them, and she has long sensed that Dash has the same feelings for her, so she decides to test the waters during their tour. Dash has resisted the temptation of the most beautiful woman, inside and out, that he has ever known since he first met her 15 years ago. When Gia makes the first move, his resolve finally crumbles, and they give into the passion and begin an affair to last only until the end of the tour. But as they get closer to that "deadline," the thought of not being together becomes less and less tolerable. Is there any way for their union to be publicly accepted? And what will the Queen's children think of their mother finding love with a servant?
I tend to steer away from the "mature romance" field in general, but this book intrigued me because I had read all of the others in the series and wanted to see the Queen get her much-deserved HEA. Also, because she was married at such a young age, she was probably late 40's in age, though I don't recall it being specifically stated anywhere.
Please note that I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Plot --- 3.5/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Supporting Cast --- 4/5
Steam Level* --- 4/5
Violence --- description of h's father and stepmother verbally abusing her; h tells story of a time her father hit her
Language --- some, not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
This is the final book in the Regency Royals series, and it features widowed Queen Giabella and her personal secretary/man of affairs Dashiell Talbot. Though it is not strictly necessary to read all of the previous books in the series, I would highly recommend it as the earlier 4 stories feature Queen Giabella's children, and this story picks up where the most recent book ended.
In the first four stories, the reader becomes well acquainted with the Queen as the mother of the children that are the H/h characters in the previous books and Dash, the man that has been at her side for fifteen years to ensure her needs are met. In addition, Dash is somewhat of a surrogate father to her children, and a father in practice to her adopted daughter (h of book 2 in the series). There has always been a strong connection between the two, but neither has nor feels they can act on the palpable passion. Not only was the Queen married when they first met, but the timeless class issue has also always been an obstacle as Gia is royalty and Dash is a servant.
Things are rapidly changing in the kingdom since Grantham, Gia's older son, took over when her husband died, and Athawick is making the move towards a more democratic style of government. Grantham is running for the prime minister role, and asks his mother to tour the southern region of the country to drum up support for his candidacy. He has also asked Dash, who has not only been a counsel to his mother but to him over the years as well, to take a role in the cabinet as he truly values his wisdom and input. While Dash quietly contemplates the offer, he is asked to accompany the Queen on her tour... a tour through a very romantic region of the country with only the two of them (with some security and Gia's maid) for the duration.
Gia has grown tired of having feelings she has never felt before and not acting on them, and she has long sensed that Dash has the same feelings for her, so she decides to test the waters during their tour. Dash has resisted the temptation of the most beautiful woman, inside and out, that he has ever known since he first met her 15 years ago. When Gia makes the first move, his resolve finally crumbles, and they give into the passion and begin an affair to last only until the end of the tour. But as they get closer to that "deadline," the thought of not being together becomes less and less tolerable. Is there any way for their union to be publicly accepted? And what will the Queen's children think of their mother finding love with a servant?
I tend to steer away from the "mature romance" field in general, but this book intrigued me because I had read all of the others in the series and wanted to see the Queen get her much-deserved HEA. Also, because she was married at such a young age, she was probably late 40's in age, though I don't recall it being specifically stated anywhere.
Please note that I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Plot --- 3.5/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Supporting Cast --- 4/5
Steam Level* --- 4/5
Violence --- description of h's father and stepmother verbally abusing her; h tells story of a time her father hit her
Language --- some, not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
March 15, 2022
The Queen's Man is the fifth and final book in the Regency Royals series by Jess Michaels. Though this isn't my favorite series by Ms. Michaels, I greatly enjoyed all the books in it. It seems, though, that she has saved the best for last! If you didn't read the previous books, this one stands alone. I recommend reading the others first, however, so you can see Gia and Dash's longing build until it explodes here.
Queen Mother Giabella of Athawick has just seen the last of her beloved children fall in love and get married. There are other big changes coming to Athawick as well: the monarchy will be no more and democratic elections will be held so all citizens can vote. Current King Grantham will be running for the position of Prime Minister. He asks his mother to do a goodwill tour of Athawick to celebrate the elections. Gia, of course, will be accompanied by her longtime personal secretary and friend, Dashiell Talbot. Dash has secretly loved Gia since he first met her, but he as always proper towards his Queen. With all the changes occurring, Gia is having trouble dealing with her own emotions regarding her dear Dash. Will all of their suppressed feelings for each other break free, or will the new changes coming in their lives keep them apart forever?
I enjoyed reading about all the couples in this series, but every time Gia and Dash appeared together I kept wishing that their relationship would grow and they would both get the happily ever after each of them so richly deserved. When I found out they were getting their own novella, I think the people in the next county heard me squeeing with joy! What I especially loved about this book was that both our hero and heroine were mature people over 50. And yes, the mature people were actually treated as real sexual beings. We usually don't see that sort of relationship in Regency romances, so this was a welcome storyline. As in all books by this author, there were extremely passionate love scenes. They were graphic, but sensual and loving as well. There had always been longing between these two, and it was beautiful when they gave in to their desires. It didn't look like they would get the relationship they both craved, but this is a romance, so you just knew it HAD to work out in the end! I enjoyed catching up with the prior couples and how their roles were changing in this new era for Athawick. I hate to leave Athawick, but I'm really looking forward to seeing what Ms. Michaels comes up with next! Here's hoping that we get to enjoy more romances with mature heroes and heroines. Please?
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Queen Mother Giabella of Athawick has just seen the last of her beloved children fall in love and get married. There are other big changes coming to Athawick as well: the monarchy will be no more and democratic elections will be held so all citizens can vote. Current King Grantham will be running for the position of Prime Minister. He asks his mother to do a goodwill tour of Athawick to celebrate the elections. Gia, of course, will be accompanied by her longtime personal secretary and friend, Dashiell Talbot. Dash has secretly loved Gia since he first met her, but he as always proper towards his Queen. With all the changes occurring, Gia is having trouble dealing with her own emotions regarding her dear Dash. Will all of their suppressed feelings for each other break free, or will the new changes coming in their lives keep them apart forever?
I enjoyed reading about all the couples in this series, but every time Gia and Dash appeared together I kept wishing that their relationship would grow and they would both get the happily ever after each of them so richly deserved. When I found out they were getting their own novella, I think the people in the next county heard me squeeing with joy! What I especially loved about this book was that both our hero and heroine were mature people over 50. And yes, the mature people were actually treated as real sexual beings. We usually don't see that sort of relationship in Regency romances, so this was a welcome storyline. As in all books by this author, there were extremely passionate love scenes. They were graphic, but sensual and loving as well. There had always been longing between these two, and it was beautiful when they gave in to their desires. It didn't look like they would get the relationship they both craved, but this is a romance, so you just knew it HAD to work out in the end! I enjoyed catching up with the prior couples and how their roles were changing in this new era for Athawick. I hate to leave Athawick, but I'm really looking forward to seeing what Ms. Michaels comes up with next! Here's hoping that we get to enjoy more romances with mature heroes and heroines. Please?
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
March 7, 2022
The Greatest Duty
Jess Michaels finishes her Regency Royals series with a passionate, and steadfast love, strengthened by a decade of commitment. With all her children happily married, and the island she loves finally achieving a democratic vote, Queen Giabella (Gia) must now consider her own future happiness. Her past marriage was filled with loneliness, and resentment, but her secretary Dashiell Talbot (Dash) has always shared in the best parts of her life. Dash has loved the queen from the very moment he first saw her kindness, and dignity. Torn between commitment to the queen, and their passion, Dash only wants Gia to finally have a safe and happy home. After so long they can now reveal their desires, and explore an equal relationship.
Gia is wonderful as a supportive mother, and dedicated queen. Though her experience with her now deceased husband is left in the previous books, it is apparent that he was terrible to her. Despite all of the abuse, Gia is loving and impeccably kind to all the people she meets. Including making peace with the wrongs of the past. Dash has served Gia not out of duty, but for love. He has kept his feelings quiet to protect Gia and their family, doing his best to support them. His dedication, attention, and respect for Gia is lovely to read. Their romance is steamy and passionate, as they explore all the feelings and touch, they could never explore before.
Though this story is a bit sentimental, it is a very satisfying ending to the Regency Royals series. Both wrapping up some lose ends, and giving this sweet couple a happy ending they desperately deserve.
Jess Michaels finishes her Regency Royals series with a passionate, and steadfast love, strengthened by a decade of commitment. With all her children happily married, and the island she loves finally achieving a democratic vote, Queen Giabella (Gia) must now consider her own future happiness. Her past marriage was filled with loneliness, and resentment, but her secretary Dashiell Talbot (Dash) has always shared in the best parts of her life. Dash has loved the queen from the very moment he first saw her kindness, and dignity. Torn between commitment to the queen, and their passion, Dash only wants Gia to finally have a safe and happy home. After so long they can now reveal their desires, and explore an equal relationship.
Gia is wonderful as a supportive mother, and dedicated queen. Though her experience with her now deceased husband is left in the previous books, it is apparent that he was terrible to her. Despite all of the abuse, Gia is loving and impeccably kind to all the people she meets. Including making peace with the wrongs of the past. Dash has served Gia not out of duty, but for love. He has kept his feelings quiet to protect Gia and their family, doing his best to support them. His dedication, attention, and respect for Gia is lovely to read. Their romance is steamy and passionate, as they explore all the feelings and touch, they could never explore before.
Though this story is a bit sentimental, it is a very satisfying ending to the Regency Royals series. Both wrapping up some lose ends, and giving this sweet couple a happy ending they desperately deserve.
March 14, 2022
Each and every book in this series is amazing, but this one is absolutely perfect.
Queen Giabella of Athawick is restless. Only one man has been able to settle her during times of trouble: her longtime personal secretary, Dashiell Talbot. Dash has served his queen for a decade and it has been the joy of his life. And the challenge, considering all he ever wants to do is touch her. But that is not his place and he has always been able to control himself before, nothing will be different now. Except that Gia is starting to have trouble controlling her own desires and everything that has been hidden, suppressed, denied is about to bubble to the surface with an explosion of powerful passion. Will they be able to find a path to a real future? Or will the past keep them apart once again?
I loved every story in this series. The second and the third ones were my favorites so far. But this one overcome them.
The sexual tension, the aghast, the longing. So well written and engaging! I couldn´t stop reading and finished it in one sitting. One of my favorites books ever. I loved that both MC are over fifty but the sex scenes are spectacular. It’s adorable to see the way he fights so hard to control himself around her, but Gia breaks that control and send him on his knees.
I highly recommend to read this books in order. It will be a totally different experience and a really marvelous one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Queen Giabella of Athawick is restless. Only one man has been able to settle her during times of trouble: her longtime personal secretary, Dashiell Talbot. Dash has served his queen for a decade and it has been the joy of his life. And the challenge, considering all he ever wants to do is touch her. But that is not his place and he has always been able to control himself before, nothing will be different now. Except that Gia is starting to have trouble controlling her own desires and everything that has been hidden, suppressed, denied is about to bubble to the surface with an explosion of powerful passion. Will they be able to find a path to a real future? Or will the past keep them apart once again?
I loved every story in this series. The second and the third ones were my favorites so far. But this one overcome them.
The sexual tension, the aghast, the longing. So well written and engaging! I couldn´t stop reading and finished it in one sitting. One of my favorites books ever. I loved that both MC are over fifty but the sex scenes are spectacular. It’s adorable to see the way he fights so hard to control himself around her, but Gia breaks that control and send him on his knees.
I highly recommend to read this books in order. It will be a totally different experience and a really marvelous one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 16, 2022
Queen Giabella of Athawick should be happy. Her children are all married and in love, her land is at last at peace and she’s about to have more freedom than she’s experienced in her whole life. And yet she’s…restless. Only one man has been able to settle her during times of trouble: her longtime personal secretary, Dashiell Talbot. So when they’re asked to do a tour of Athawick to celebrate their upcoming democratic elections, she knows she’ll be well taken care of. And she agrees.
Dash has served his queen for a decade and it has been the joy of his life. And the challenge, considering all he ever wants to do is touch her. But that is not his place and he has always been able to control himself before, nothing will be different now.
Except that Gia is starting to have trouble controlling her own desires and everything that has been hidden, suppressed, denied is about to bubble to the surface with an explosion of powerful passion. Will they be able to find a path to a real future? Or will the past keep them apart once again?
It seems the past will keep them apart once again.
Will they get a second chance at the love that haunts them?
This book ends abruptly and love is not the key.
I wish they had found their way to a happily ever after.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley.
This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Dash has served his queen for a decade and it has been the joy of his life. And the challenge, considering all he ever wants to do is touch her. But that is not his place and he has always been able to control himself before, nothing will be different now.
Except that Gia is starting to have trouble controlling her own desires and everything that has been hidden, suppressed, denied is about to bubble to the surface with an explosion of powerful passion. Will they be able to find a path to a real future? Or will the past keep them apart once again?
It seems the past will keep them apart once again.
Will they get a second chance at the love that haunts them?
This book ends abruptly and love is not the key.
I wish they had found their way to a happily ever after.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley.
This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
March 6, 2022
Queen Giabella is quite happy that all her children are settled with good, loving partners and that her country is on the way to democracy and peace. Even if she doesn’t know what to do with her life once she won’t be queen anymore… The only thing she knows is that she cannot share it with the man she’s secretly loved for years and who has never left her side until now. And the knowledge is killing her..
Dashiell Talbot has been Giabella’s secretary for ten years and has loved and worshipped her from afar. But he’s on a different path in his life now and he’ll have to part with her. Will one last journey together set them apart forever or will it bring to life the passion they’ve always shared?
The Regency Royals series gloriously comes to an end with this heartwarming book. It’s been a greatly emotional series and this is definitely a worthy conclusion. I loved Giabella and Dash and the fact that they are older characters I can finally relate to. Jess Michaels’s writing is perfection as always and I always marvel at her capacity of conveying her character’s feelings in the most delightful way. A five star read, this book and the entire series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dashiell Talbot has been Giabella’s secretary for ten years and has loved and worshipped her from afar. But he’s on a different path in his life now and he’ll have to part with her. Will one last journey together set them apart forever or will it bring to life the passion they’ve always shared?
The Regency Royals series gloriously comes to an end with this heartwarming book. It’s been a greatly emotional series and this is definitely a worthy conclusion. I loved Giabella and Dash and the fact that they are older characters I can finally relate to. Jess Michaels’s writing is perfection as always and I always marvel at her capacity of conveying her character’s feelings in the most delightful way. A five star read, this book and the entire series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 12, 2022
Dashiel Talbot has been the secretary for the queen for over ten years. He rarely leaves her side. He
also has fallen in love with her. He is excepted as in the family by them all. He is tall, handsome, kind, and protects the queen. He is a smart dresser and always looks tidy. He was English but he stayed for her.
Queen Giabella Athawick was in an arranged marriage, and it turned out miserable for her. He cheated on her, just a total miserable man. When he finally died there was relief among them all. The queen was with her son when he was crowned, and she always supported her family. She had loved dash since the first day she saw him. She had to protect him, so they let it lay.
You could just imagine how much requited love was going on. I thought the way they handled this delicate and tender emotion was lovely. The writing was marvelous and easy to read despite some of the rough issues. All the children were married, (all four). Dash wanted a job in government
and she had no idea of what to do with herself after the momentous change. I so enjoy this author's work. If you pick up a book of hers, I hope you love it as I do.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
It has everything for an excellent tale.
also has fallen in love with her. He is excepted as in the family by them all. He is tall, handsome, kind, and protects the queen. He is a smart dresser and always looks tidy. He was English but he stayed for her.
Queen Giabella Athawick was in an arranged marriage, and it turned out miserable for her. He cheated on her, just a total miserable man. When he finally died there was relief among them all. The queen was with her son when he was crowned, and she always supported her family. She had loved dash since the first day she saw him. She had to protect him, so they let it lay.
You could just imagine how much requited love was going on. I thought the way they handled this delicate and tender emotion was lovely. The writing was marvelous and easy to read despite some of the rough issues. All the children were married, (all four). Dash wanted a job in government
and she had no idea of what to do with herself after the momentous change. I so enjoy this author's work. If you pick up a book of hers, I hope you love it as I do.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
It has everything for an excellent tale.
March 12, 2022
I received an ARC from the author/publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
The Queen’s Man is the final book in the Regency Royals series. It can be read as a stand-alone. And despite the fact that this is only a novella, this is my favorite in the series, due to the shift in focus and change in character dynamics.
I’m a sucker for the older woman marrying for love after having gone through a marriage for the sake of duty, so I knew I’d adore this one. Gia has been through a lot in her marriage to the king, and waited to see her children settled before thinking about herself. And the fact that Dash was always there and had long nursed feelings for her…super sweet!
I did feel like the conflict in this one was a bit so-so, given that they were both so prepared to give up on their love instead of fighting to be together at times. But of course, everything works out in the end.
This is a lovely story in its own right, and a standout installment in an uneven series. I would recommend this to fans of historical/Royal romance.
The Queen’s Man is the final book in the Regency Royals series. It can be read as a stand-alone. And despite the fact that this is only a novella, this is my favorite in the series, due to the shift in focus and change in character dynamics.
I’m a sucker for the older woman marrying for love after having gone through a marriage for the sake of duty, so I knew I’d adore this one. Gia has been through a lot in her marriage to the king, and waited to see her children settled before thinking about herself. And the fact that Dash was always there and had long nursed feelings for her…super sweet!
I did feel like the conflict in this one was a bit so-so, given that they were both so prepared to give up on their love instead of fighting to be together at times. But of course, everything works out in the end.
This is a lovely story in its own right, and a standout installment in an uneven series. I would recommend this to fans of historical/Royal romance.
February 24, 2022
This book was an absolute delight! My first Jess Michaels romance and most definitely not my last! The Queen’s Man’s is the last book in a series but I read it as a standalone and enjoyed it immensely. I wasn’t sure what to expect but was intrigued by the book’s blurb and could not wait to read Giabella and Dashiell’s story.
Queen Gia is actually the Queen Mother. As with most royal marriages hers was one of duty not love and not at all a good one. Dash is her devoted secretary, friend and confidant. The man is madly in love with her and hides it well. The chemistry between Gia and Dash is unbelievable. I loved watching them interact and couldn’t wait for them to act on their feelings.
Watching two mature people like Gia and Dash fall for each other was amazing and fall for each they did. It was hot and sexy and I loved it!
I’m giving The Queen’s Man the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval and highly recommend you read this book, TBR and Enjoy!
Queen Gia is actually the Queen Mother. As with most royal marriages hers was one of duty not love and not at all a good one. Dash is her devoted secretary, friend and confidant. The man is madly in love with her and hides it well. The chemistry between Gia and Dash is unbelievable. I loved watching them interact and couldn’t wait for them to act on their feelings.
Watching two mature people like Gia and Dash fall for each other was amazing and fall for each they did. It was hot and sexy and I loved it!
I’m giving The Queen’s Man the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval and highly recommend you read this book, TBR and Enjoy!
March 14, 2022
I recieved a free copy from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I feel like I have been waiting for this book for forever.
Gia and Dash have had a strong connection in each of the previous books as Gia's children their own partners.
As the last book in the series, this book does a good job or trying up loose ends and providing everyone with tla HEA.
Now that Grantham has decided to end the monarchy, he asks Queen Gia along with her secretary Dash to tour to the country to gain support for the transition to democracy.
I have loved the chemistry between the two from the start and them finally coming together did not disappoint
I am not usually a fan of an older couple romance but this is the story I was looking forward to the most.
A more mature version of the romance of Queen Clarice in the Princess Diaries.
I feel like I have been waiting for this book for forever.
Gia and Dash have had a strong connection in each of the previous books as Gia's children their own partners.
As the last book in the series, this book does a good job or trying up loose ends and providing everyone with tla HEA.
Now that Grantham has decided to end the monarchy, he asks Queen Gia along with her secretary Dash to tour to the country to gain support for the transition to democracy.
I have loved the chemistry between the two from the start and them finally coming together did not disappoint
I am not usually a fan of an older couple romance but this is the story I was looking forward to the most.
A more mature version of the romance of Queen Clarice in the Princess Diaries.
February 26, 2022
A good ending to this series and a refreshing story since it involves older main characters. Dash has been in love with the queen and been her friend for years. Gia feels the same way, but holds back because she isn't sure of his feelings and with her elevated station, she thinks nothing could ever come of it anyway.
The two are sent on a goodwill tour and along the way give into their desires. Romance and chemistry are well written in this story and this can be read standalone, but also serves as a satisfying ending to this series.
Thanks to the publisher for a review copy via Netgalley.
The two are sent on a goodwill tour and along the way give into their desires. Romance and chemistry are well written in this story and this can be read standalone, but also serves as a satisfying ending to this series.
Thanks to the publisher for a review copy via Netgalley.
April 10, 2022
A nice end to a series on the make believe Kingdom of Athawick.
After all the widowed Queen's children found their match, it was time for Giabella to explore her feelings towards her long time secretary, Dashiell Talbot.
The previous books alluded to something simmering between the two, so much so, I thought something had already taken place. I was more surprised to find out if hadn't. There was little angst which fit the mature relationship better.
The fantasy Kingdom, was not my favorite plot for a series but the romance aspect was still good in each story and this was a nice change of pace to ending a series.
After all the widowed Queen's children found their match, it was time for Giabella to explore her feelings towards her long time secretary, Dashiell Talbot.
The previous books alluded to something simmering between the two, so much so, I thought something had already taken place. I was more surprised to find out if hadn't. There was little angst which fit the mature relationship better.
The fantasy Kingdom, was not my favorite plot for a series but the romance aspect was still good in each story and this was a nice change of pace to ending a series.
February 28, 2022
Do you like a seasoned romance? I do, and there are not nearly enough of them out there. I love how Jess showed us that age does not diminish passion. Gia and Dash are great characters with a great story. Denial was the name of the game and it comes to a head when they decide to throw it to the wind with a little help from someone close. These two are one of my favorite characters. It is a novella and I wish it could have gone on and on.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
March 16, 2022
This is the final book in the series but it can e read as a standalone. Queen Giabella should be happy, her children are happily married, the country is at peace and she now has more freedom. For some reason she is still restless and the only person in her life that can calm her is her personal secretary, Dashiell. When she is asked to take a tour of the country, she knows that Dash will be there with her. What will happen when the attraction between them sparks. Fast-paced read with sizzling chemistry and an entertaining story. I really liked it.
March 17, 2022
I’ve really enjoyed this series and I was particularly pleased to read this book. The story of Gia and Dash has been bubbling along like an undercurrent to all the other books in the series. I also like it because they are an older couple who are in love for the first time, albeit for the past 10 years! In this story they learn how they can be together as they finally succumb to their feelings for one another. Although not a lot happens in terms of plot, this happy couple get sorted out as does the future of Athawick. A great conclusion to a super series.
March 18, 2022
This book is the conclusion I have been waiting for. I LOVED it. I am SO happy that Queen Gia and Dash are finally together!
The story is excellent. The characters are, by this point in the series, well known and well loved. I could hardly put it down. Dash and Gia are such wonderful characters. They have both spent their whole lives sacrificing for the good of others. It is so lovely for them to finally have what they’ve always wanted. This is one of my favorite tropes. Long time friends, heavily reliant on each other, finally giving in to love. *swoon*.
I cannot recommend this book (nay, this series!) enough!
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