Pregnant by the Prince

Pacific Passions #1

by Courtney Clark Michaels

A one-night baby...Type-A event planner Stella Warren has known from childhood she can’t count on anyone but herself. Arriving on the tropical island of Avali, she has only one thing on her mind - giving her best friend the wedding of a lifetime. But when she throws caution to the wind and winds up in bed with her ex, she finds herself planning for one thing she could never have predicted - motherhood!A marriage of inconvenience...Prince Aleki Esera doesn’t do relationships. His country depends on him to set an example and he can’t afford to risk his image with tabloid tales. When one steamy night with his former flame results in an unexpected pregnancy, he proposes a marriage of convenience. It’s the perfect solution - a future king will need a wife, and their baby will have the stable home life Stella has always craved.A second chance at love?With a woman who thrives on control in chaos, pressure to perform rising on the Pacific prince and a baby on the way, will it be second-time-lucky for the former sweethearts? Or will mixing duty with desire lead to a royal disaster?

Genres: Royalty, Contemporary, Surprise Pregnancy, Romance, Second Chance, Contemporary Romance, Marriage Of Convenience

216 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 2, 2021

About the author

Writer of modern, diverse fairytales with a South Pacific twist.

Reviews

[Nicola · Rating 4 out of 5]

Courtney Clark Michaels’ first outing in her Pacific Passions series brings exactly what the title suggests, and although the tropes used are tried and tested, the characters and everything that creates their story makes for an enjoyable, fresh and diverse romance with a modern fairytale feel.

Love is beautiful, inspiring, incredible. But it’s also unpredictable.”

Stella and Aleki were as endearing as they were frustrating—he with his stubborn nature and knack for acting first thinking later, she with her fiery nature and sharp tongue—and their chemistry was spot on for it. Add in the beautiful Samoan backdrop and its rich culture, and I’m already looking forward to seeing who steals Prince Manu’s heart.

Copy provided courtesy of Book Sirens for an honest and unbiased opinion.

[Kassyreadsalot · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Book-sirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book!

Review: I really enjoyed this romance! It was a bit frustrating at time especially with Aleki! But I’m glad that he realizes what he did wrong. It did take me a while to warm up to him but he does change for the better and becomes the king and proper husband for Stella! I loved Stella and how head strong she is and independent! She was great protagonist to read from and I’m glad Stella stood up for herself when she did at certain points in this book because some people need to be put in their place! This was such a great romance and I recommend it to anyone who is looking for a sweet romance!

[BP34 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aleki and Stella will grab your heart in this sweet romance. It's set in the beautiful Polynesian Island's where he's a prince. They had a little history ten years ago but he left without a word because ' he doesn't do relationships'. Fate brings them together again when she is the wedding planner for a wedding held at his home. The chemistry's still there but he still doesn't do relationships. A night of passion produces a little one and they're left with a choice. A marriage of convenience. This was a cute book with some twists and a happy ending. The characters were well developed and likable. The story line was engaging. I read a copy via Book Sirens and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Brandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounded up. Sweet story if a bit unbelievable that she would agree to marry him that quickly.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

I enjoyed this romance, but it frustrated me at times too. Stella is a very independent business owner, who doesn’t seem to let any detail slide. But she lets Aleki get away with his past poor behavior towards her with nary a conversation until well into the book. And even then, there is not near enough groveling. Considering the deep friendship they had in college, it seems odd that they would not have spoken at all in years.

Once they made a decision about their future, they seemed to really grow as a couple and I enjoyed their fun give-and-take relationship. Which is why it was so surprising to me that Aleki didn’t talk with Stella at all when the King gave him an ultimatum, because they had such good chemistry as a team.

The overall plot was enjoyable, and I thought the end was terrific once everyone got on the same page.

Thanks for Book Sirens for an advance reader copy of the book and these are my honest opinions.

[Maddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good

Loved the characters and the individual stories that made them who they are. Family dynamics are what makes us. Really glad of the ending.

[lynette desiree · Rating 2 out of 5]

*ARC received for honest review*

I really wanted to love this book. The first few chapters went by fairly quickly. I thought it was the build up to the main event. Unfortunately, I was wrong about most of the book. It felt rushed and the relationship didn’t grow as much as I hoped. Maybe it would have been better to have more of this couple’s backstory to understand their connection. Aleki and Stella had met and grown close during their time at a New Zealand university ten years before the setting of this book. You never really get the full sense of their relationship. Being that this book is in a third person point of view, trying to figure out their feelings and thoughts became a little exhausting. I was really hoping for more. I feel like Aleki and Stella did grow individually, but I just didn’t feel the chemistry or the growth of them together as a couple.

[KANCHAN RAJEEV · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note - I received a digital arc of this book for free ; a courtesy of Book Sirens on the basis of which this review has been posted voluntarily. This is an honest opinion of mine.

Rating - 4 stars

When I finished reading this book, the first thing that came into my mind was ' A complete title misnomer.' Before I elaborate further, I would really like to thank Book Sirens for a chance to review this book and author Courtney Clark Michaels

for penning down such an amazing story as well as a chance to review the same.

Pregnant By The Prince is the first installment in the Pacific Passions series staring protagonists Stella Warren and Aleki Esera ; both different yet similar in ways unknown to even them. Stella is a type A event planner that runs around with a to - do - list in her head and a fire to do everything on her own due to her strong notion since childhood that she can’t count on anyone but herself. Prince Aleki on Esera on the other hand is the heir to the throne of Avali - a small island in the South Pacific ; a royal always trying to keep himself in positive light with the tabloids despite few instances in the past as he holds himself duty bound to a country that depends on him to set an example. Both once former sweethearts and the first love of each other now detour away from commitments and relationships due to a past misunderstanding. However one steamy night during her trip to Avali to give her best friend the wedding of a lifetime; she ends up getting pregnant. Commitment phobic Aleki proposes a marriage of contract and convenience. It’s the perfect solution - one needs a wife to rule along at his side while the other wants a stable home and family life for the baby. Now whether this plan of marriage between a list oriented woman with a baby on the way and a to be king, both from different cultures and with a past be a success or not is what the story is all about.

Although the story contains around 4-5 instances of strong sexual encounters, I absolutely loved how they were incorporated beautifully into a strong plotline and narrative. The characters felt real and I myself could relate to various attributes of Stella like her need to make to - do lists for everything. The story also addresses gay relationships in a super as -a - matter - of - fact manner. There was no attribute that made you suspect that a certain character was gay ; it was simply mentioned in a conversation. Editing was perfect.

However I have rated this title as 4 stars for three major reasons. First is the title of the story - the current title Pregnant by the Prince when read along with the book cover gives a very adult rated feel with just erotic scenes only and no story line. But the book blurb gives a completely opposite vibe. And this offers potential for a prejudgment for many to not pick the title up to read. A better alternate title would have made this book much better and approachable. Secondly towards the end it felt like some portions were skipped to suddenly conclude the story. Also the story includes multiple words from the fictional Avalian language which were quite difficult to decipher. A glossary at the end would have really helped a lot to solve this issue.

Nevertheless this is purely a standalone read and is simply a fabulous multi time read for all those die hard romance fans aged 18+. Since the title actually quotes the book as a part of a series , I would really love to read more in the series featuring Stella and Aleki.

Trigger warnings: sex and nudity (graphic), profanity, mild kink discussion, subtle gay references, strong language, mild references to past emotional abuse.

[Pam Graber · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started this yesterday afternoon and finished it in the wee hours of the morning. I couldn't put it down. This is a second chance romance between two best friends, a prince and an event planner, who haven't seen each other in 10 years. Both have spent those 10 years trying to forget their explosive chemistry, and failing miserably. When Stella falls pregnant despite using preventative measures, Prince Alekis' honor demands that he marry her and legitimize his child. Neither is looking to fall in love. In fact, Alekis believes love would make him a weak ruler, and Stella believes love is only something she sees in her wedding planning business, not something she is capable of. Unfortunately, the king, throws a wrench into their plans, and try as he might, Alekis can't keep his father, Stella, and his country happy.

Can Alekis and Stella keep their hearts under wraps, even when each finds more and more to admire about the other?

I really enjoyed this story! There's plenty of steam for readers who enjoy their sexy stories, and the couple is very well-matched. I definitely would recommend!

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Amount of spice:🔥🔥
Explicitness: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

❤️Surprise Pregnancy
❤️Pacific Island Setting
❤️Polynesian Royalty
❤️Second-Chance Romance
❤️Engagement of Convenience

I adore Courtney’s style of writing and her sense of humour, her books always give me a good laugh and I fly through them. I also wasn’t expecting to feel so emotional about this one, it reminded me of home and the characters' stories were moving and relatable (yes I just said I relate to a Polynesian prince). Stella was tough, kind and loveable and Aleki was surprisingly gentle and open with his emotions. There was one point in the book where Stella asks if he’s okay and he tells her that he’s nervous and for some reason that really pulled at my heartstrings.

Reading Pregnant by the Prince also felt like one big fantastic lesson in Pacific Island culture. Coming from New Zealand I am really familiar with it and even so, I learnt so much!

I would recommend it if you love the idea of a royal romance without the wrinkly old white people but rather with very attractive Polynesian men who love hard.

[Jade Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now romance is not my usual genre, opting for historical fiction but this really held my interest for the duration. I thoroughly enjoyed my nights escaping my toddler in the pages of Stella and Aleki's romance. I loved the setting, the description of the island, the incorporation of another language (*started calling my significant other little star haha) and the fact I couldn't work out what was going to happen next. I honestly thought most of the book would be built up in reminiscing on their past but I was pleasantly surprised that the book gave a run down and then got straight into the good stuff. In fact, I'd have to say this is the most well-written romance I've read - the words danced off the page. No cringe moments, or words that make me giggle in horror. Interested to see what more this author has to give and what will become of Avali and it's newest royal member. Also, side note: love the brother. More please.

[Sandy LM L.M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a terrific debut! I was charmed by Pregnant by the Prince. Stella and Aleki light up the page. Their chemistry is off the charts. Stella never dreamed she'd see her childhood friend again, but when she does the sparks fly! Falling pregnant was not part of her plans and she's a woman who plans everything and boy is her life upended. Aleki takes his responsibilities seriously to his family and his nation. He is not a relationship kind of man which made for a delicious push and pull. The backdrop of the pacific is gorgeous. I went on holiday and I didn't have to leave the house!

I can't wait for the next installment.

If you like (and who doesn't) passion, angst, gorgeous settings and a sigh-worthy ending, I highly recommend this book.

[Readers Are Leaders · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. MF, Dual POV, marriage of convenience Second chance interracial romance is a flaming smoke show. We have a working class heroine in the crosshairs of royalty. His family’s very traditional. To avoid upsetting them the prince strong arms his lady love into marriage. She’s been crushing on him. He was her first. It’s almost like they were on a collision course to make their little bundle of joy. I love the one night stand secret baby trope. It usually leads to the man growing up. This is the first in a series so more great loving is coming! Stay tuned. You’ll like this one so much you’ll read the next one too.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The writing was witty and entertaining, the two main characters engaging and real, and the setting made me wish I were sunning myself on a Pacific Island right this minute. I enjoyed the insights into Pasifika culture and, being from Wellington, I got a kick out of the mentions of places I was familiar with (my flatmates and I used to throw a ball around on that same field under the cablecar!). The author did a great job of bringing together two flawed human beings, without making them caricatures, and who were still likeable in spite of their sometimes dubious choices. Can't wait to read the next one!

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some of the most exciting things about these characters were, they are so good at being poised and sophisticated yet not snobbish, compassionate and when they had alone time, all bets are off, lol. Both being strong-willed, together they are a bold force to be reckoned with. I think they deserved a second chance to air out the past and build a new future that will challenge them to unlock their hearts and baste in that wonder. New to me author. I enjoyed reading Book 1 of this series and would definitely consider reading more. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Deanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovers to enemies to lovers again.

The story started off a bit on the weak side for me, to go from disliking and not trusting an ex to sleeping with them within a week seemed a little unrealistic for me. But as the story progressed the strength of the characters grew.

Stella gains a backbone not only in what she needs in a relationship but in that she won’t be walked all over by her deadbeat dad and the serve she gives him is worth an applause. Likewise with Aleki, he finally worked out what was really important in life.

I received an advance review copy from booksirens and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.

[Stephanie Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!
There aren't enough romance novels set in the Pacific Islands, and Pregnant by the Prince delivered atmosphere in spades. Loved the multicultural element, with both protagonists making cultural concessions and learning to understand where the other was coming from.
Escape to a tropical destination? Check. Steamy second chance romance? Check. Aleki and Stella's chemistry was hot, hot, hot!
I was lucky enough to receive this book as an advanced reader copy, and as a new fan of Courtney Clark Michaels, will be seeking out anything and everything this award winning debut author puts out.

[Rebekah Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was not a romantic novel fan but I am now. I read this in a matter of hours. I couldn't put it down. It has great pace and keeps you wanting to know more...I was so invested in their story. I was genuinely sad when it finished but it wasn't long lived...I had book two next to me 🤣

It is beautiful to see representation of Pasifika communities in these stories and the language and culture entwined naturally.

The storyboarding how these stories all fit is very clever and a great way to check in on the characters you have come to love as you go through the series. So don't just stop at this book - keep going!

[Reading is Life · Rating 4 out of 5]

sweet and easy to read

The story is pretty straightforward as a second chance love between Stella and Aleki. Both are a little too perfect for me in the beginning. It takes a while to see any kind of flaws that make them human. I wasn’t a fan of the ending. It was as if both just said “oops I’m wrong let’s be in love,” but that’s the problem with misunderstanding as a conflict. I did like the passion both showed for their independence, and Stella showed in making her own way. Her strength really shined on the page. Similarly, Aleki’s dedication to his role as Prince was heartfelt.

[SplkdancerReviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Complicated multi-cultural Pacific Island romance with college friends who reconnect and now have to navigate both of their adult professional lives together with a baby on the way. Contemporary story with moderate spice between a wedding planner and Pacific Island prince in some messy version of a fairytale. Fairly straightforward story with a lot of personal insecurities and emotions to complicate things. I've read more romantic, but the story wasn't bad and it kept me interested enough through various twists and turns, but some elements definitely felt unrealistic.
Note: the story includes several very negative relationships with parents.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aleki and Stella had both suffered from less than healthy parental relationships - one too rigid and one non-existent. They both had demons to fight and feelings, misunderstandings and angry words to work through. It was an emotional story - love lost, over and over again until both Stella and Aleki were at the point of being ready to move forward. It was an emotional story, by turns happy and sad. Tissues required! Good read!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Vicki Stephens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pregnant by the Prince is a second Chance romance between Stella, an event and wedding planner, and Prince Alexis Eseia, a prince of a Polynesian island who was once the love of Stella until he broke off their relationship. Years later they meet again as Stella is handling the wedding of her best friend at the home of Prince. Their steamy attraction results in a one night fling with consequences to both characters. I found this book to be an enjoyable read with great characters.

I received a free advanced review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Daniela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful story of second chances and hard choices

Lovely story, well written, about the second chance Aleki had with Stella which ended with a surprise baby. Alexis and Stella both have reasons to be reserved in committing to love. But they chose to commit to a respectful partnership in marriage and family. Until feelings are hurt and love is lost. However, the resolution was a little rushed. Overall a beautifully written story. I loved reading about the culture, traditions and government of Samoan or Pacific Island Life. Very interesting.

[Lynn Stifle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book one in the Pacific Passions series and Stella and Aleki’s story. Stella is an event/wedding planner and wants to give her best friend the wedding of her dreams. While on the beautiful tropical island of Avali she runs into her ex Aleki. After one sizzling night together leads to an unexpected surprise, Aleki proposes a marriage of convenience. Such a great read! Highly recommend.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Barbara DeLeo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED Stella and Aleki's story! From the gorgeous Pacific island setting, a heroine who is sassy and strong, to the melt your heart (and your panties) hero—this steamy romance has everything. This is an amazing debut and with a huge cast of loveable characters, the next books in the series will be auto buys for me. I can't wait to read Manu's story!

[Cindie Wenger · Rating 4 out of 5]

wow

Wow, just wow! I truly enjoyed Aleki And Stella’s story. I love how strong and full of life and love Stella is. That she was willing to give up everything for Aleki and her child showed her true character. I love the way the story showed how much Aleki was willing to give up for his country and his family. Hope there will be more from these characters.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an easy read for me, I really loved the second chance romance for our main characters. Stella is a strong independent woman which I love but my favourite character by far was Prince Alekis assistant Lani. We all need a Lani in our lives. The plot was great, the story was well paced, and the setting was beautiful, makes me want to go on holiday to the Pacific Islands.

[Book Addict · Rating 1 out of 5]

For the two main characters to have a strong relationship in college, it never felt well established in their current relationship. To me, this read like a one night stand turned pregnancy between two people who are only together for the baby. There was no heat, and the story felt bland. There's some 3rd act drama, and even that was lackluster.

[LizJ. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very sweet romance, characters well done, heat off the charts and the backdrop of the Pacific is amazing, I felt like I was actually there!! Well done for a debut book!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Heather Steevens · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was privileged to be gifted this book by the author. Not my usual genre of reading but I really enjoyed it! Very easy to read and loved the story-line - am currently reading the second book in the series and enjoying it just as much!