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Maple Creek Romantic Comedy #7
Her Prince's Secret Past
What happens when he falls for someone who doesn’t know his true identity?
Prince Edward of Mastonia, heir to the throne, is forced to go into hiding when his brother plots against his life. An avid painter, he tracks down a master artist he longs to study under in the small town of Maple Creek, Virginia. It’s the perfect hiding spot. What he doesn’t expect are the feelings he’s developed for the artist’s beautiful daughter. Only she doesn’t know he’s a prince. He’s afraid she’ll decide she only wants him for his title like his ex-girlfriend did.
Art museum director Carrington Dalton desperately needs to raise money before being forced to close the doors on her father’s beloved art museum. Only her father hates asking for money. He’s been so resistant to it, the museum has suffered. When a mysterious, handsome foreigner shows up on her family’s doorstep, insisting he wants to train under father to become a master painter, Carrington decides to swallow her pride and ask for help. As they work together, she begins to fall for him. But Carrington isn’t sure a man like Edward could actually want to be with her. She’s been burned in the past.
Can they overcome their fears and be together, or will they let their stubborn hearts rule the day?
If you enjoy sweet romance set in a small town with swoony moments, then you’ll love this book!
Prince Edward of Mastonia, heir to the throne, is forced to go into hiding when his brother plots against his life. An avid painter, he tracks down a master artist he longs to study under in the small town of Maple Creek, Virginia. It’s the perfect hiding spot. What he doesn’t expect are the feelings he’s developed for the artist’s beautiful daughter. Only she doesn’t know he’s a prince. He’s afraid she’ll decide she only wants him for his title like his ex-girlfriend did.
Art museum director Carrington Dalton desperately needs to raise money before being forced to close the doors on her father’s beloved art museum. Only her father hates asking for money. He’s been so resistant to it, the museum has suffered. When a mysterious, handsome foreigner shows up on her family’s doorstep, insisting he wants to train under father to become a master painter, Carrington decides to swallow her pride and ask for help. As they work together, she begins to fall for him. But Carrington isn’t sure a man like Edward could actually want to be with her. She’s been burned in the past.
Can they overcome their fears and be together, or will they let their stubborn hearts rule the day?
If you enjoy sweet romance set in a small town with swoony moments, then you’ll love this book!
- GenresContemporaryRomance
168 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 9, 2021
76 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Ray Hale
59 books561 followersCindy Ray Hale loves to write romcoms set in small towns and has been writing and publishing books since 2012, all the while, laughing at her own funny stories. She is married to the sweetest guy and has a blended family with him, consisting of seven kids.
She loves nerding out on video games, creating book covers, and drinking too much caffeine. When she can find a moment, she loves to sing and play the piano and often includes acting and singing somewhere in her stories.
She was born and raised in the hills of Tennessee in a large crazy family and as an adult, has moved all over the United States. She's finally settled down in a small town in the mountains of western Virginia where she loves to go hiking, boating, and dig in her garden.
She loves nerding out on video games, creating book covers, and drinking too much caffeine. When she can find a moment, she loves to sing and play the piano and often includes acting and singing somewhere in her stories.
She was born and raised in the hills of Tennessee in a large crazy family and as an adult, has moved all over the United States. She's finally settled down in a small town in the mountains of western Virginia where she loves to go hiking, boating, and dig in her garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 6, 2022
Reader’s Notes:
– this is book 6 of a series but you do not need to read the others to understand this one
– this is told from both Edward and Carrington’s points of view
Review:
I think this might be my favorite of this series! I loved Edward and Carrington together 🥰. They both cared for one another and worried for each other’s best interest/safety. And they had a love of art and wanted to keep the local art museum in business 🖼 . (The scene with Edward trying to cook 😍) I also enjoyed that someone finally put Mrs. Wheaton on the spot 😂.
Edward is the crown prince of Mastonia who had to leave for his own safety. He decides to take advantage of the time he has to find his favorite artist and ask if he can study under him. The fact that the artist lives in a small town is a bonus, as is the artist’s beautiful daughter that he’ll be able to see every day.
Carrington is the local art museum director and she knows that they need funds to keep their doors open, but he father (the owner) is very stubborn about accepting charity. But with the roof leaking yet again, she has to try and convince him. Luckily the new guy who is training under her father is on her side and is willing to help her set something up for fundraising. As their meetings turn into what look like dates, she wonders if he could actually be interested in her or if she is imagining it once again.
With Edward hiding his connections and Carrington worried about her heart, will they be able to fall into a love that lasts or will something break them apart?
– this is book 6 of a series but you do not need to read the others to understand this one
– this is told from both Edward and Carrington’s points of view
Review:
I think this might be my favorite of this series! I loved Edward and Carrington together 🥰. They both cared for one another and worried for each other’s best interest/safety. And they had a love of art and wanted to keep the local art museum in business 🖼 . (The scene with Edward trying to cook 😍) I also enjoyed that someone finally put Mrs. Wheaton on the spot 😂.
Edward is the crown prince of Mastonia who had to leave for his own safety. He decides to take advantage of the time he has to find his favorite artist and ask if he can study under him. The fact that the artist lives in a small town is a bonus, as is the artist’s beautiful daughter that he’ll be able to see every day.
Carrington is the local art museum director and she knows that they need funds to keep their doors open, but he father (the owner) is very stubborn about accepting charity. But with the roof leaking yet again, she has to try and convince him. Luckily the new guy who is training under her father is on her side and is willing to help her set something up for fundraising. As their meetings turn into what look like dates, she wonders if he could actually be interested in her or if she is imagining it once again.
With Edward hiding his connections and Carrington worried about her heart, will they be able to fall into a love that lasts or will something break them apart?
March 9, 2025
This was a quick read that kept me entertained and laughing out loud! I really enjoyed this clean rom com novella.
November 8, 2021
Sooo swoony!
Once I started reading this story I didn’t want to let it go. I was hooked from the beginning. Who wouldn’t want to find out who the gorgeous man was who spilt coffee all over Carrington’s beautiful blouse? If the prince wanted to remain in anonymity, this town was the wrong town to pick. Mrs. Wheaton was determined to find out his history of where he came from and who he was exactly. Edward, the anonymous prince, was determined to find Mr. Dalton, his favorite artist, so he could work with him and study his technique. His daughter, Carrington, did most of the work at the museum and was desperate to find the funds to fix the leaking roof so their beautiful paintings would not get damaged. I was mesmerized with the romance developing between Edward and Carrington. Sooo swoony! Lots of tension developing in this story as someone was out to assassinate Edward and he was so protective of Carrington. But the epilogue clinched it for me. Sooo swoony!
Once I started reading this story I didn’t want to let it go. I was hooked from the beginning. Who wouldn’t want to find out who the gorgeous man was who spilt coffee all over Carrington’s beautiful blouse? If the prince wanted to remain in anonymity, this town was the wrong town to pick. Mrs. Wheaton was determined to find out his history of where he came from and who he was exactly. Edward, the anonymous prince, was determined to find Mr. Dalton, his favorite artist, so he could work with him and study his technique. His daughter, Carrington, did most of the work at the museum and was desperate to find the funds to fix the leaking roof so their beautiful paintings would not get damaged. I was mesmerized with the romance developing between Edward and Carrington. Sooo swoony! Lots of tension developing in this story as someone was out to assassinate Edward and he was so protective of Carrington. But the epilogue clinched it for me. Sooo swoony!
November 14, 2021
Her Princes Secret Past was an enjoyable read but I also felt like things moved a little fast. Edward is new in Maple Creek because he wants to work under the painter that lives in town. He also needs to go into hiding because he is in danger back in Mastonia.
The artist that he is working under is Carrington’s father. He runs into Carrington on the first day and spills coffee all over her. Then he finds out who she is and that the museum she is running is in need of a new roof; so he decides to help with fundraising. Throughout working with her father and her on fundraising; Edward is becoming more attached to Carrington. She is a bit hesitant though because of men in the past not reciprocating her feelings.
I enjoyed this story but felt that things were moving a bit fast at the end. This story contained more drama than I was expecting which was refreshing. I felt bad for Edward since he didn’t seem to care as much as his brother did but his brother was ruthless.
I definitely want to know how his parents felt about Carrington and how she liked Mastonia.
The artist that he is working under is Carrington’s father. He runs into Carrington on the first day and spills coffee all over her. Then he finds out who she is and that the museum she is running is in need of a new roof; so he decides to help with fundraising. Throughout working with her father and her on fundraising; Edward is becoming more attached to Carrington. She is a bit hesitant though because of men in the past not reciprocating her feelings.
I enjoyed this story but felt that things were moving a bit fast at the end. This story contained more drama than I was expecting which was refreshing. I felt bad for Edward since he didn’t seem to care as much as his brother did but his brother was ruthless.
I definitely want to know how his parents felt about Carrington and how she liked Mastonia.
November 18, 2021
Edward was born to be a prince, but really wanted to be a painter. He has a younger brother who wanted to be king, but would make an awful king. It sure seemed like Edward didn’t have a lot of options ahead of him. Carrington loved art, but had little time to be an artist and her dad kind of tied her hands when it came to running the museum as she had studied for. Both were kind of stuck and not seeing a good way forward. Both felt that the real them wasn’t being seen or appreciated. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Edward and Carrington, seeing how they helped each other see new possibilities and encouraging each other to follow there dreams. There were moments of laughter, and tears. Their story was well-written and quite enjoyable.
November 7, 2021
Carrington and Edwards story was enchanting. I love how the author, Cindy, creates such realistic characters with such deep and story. I like that Edward could tell just from looking at Bryant the type of person he was, cocky and full of himself. I love how Edward was able to help Carrington use the knowledge she already had to help her museum to fund-raise. The town of maple creek seems like a small, busting, friendly town where everyone helps each other. If this was a real town, I would love to live there! I highly recommend this book and any book that Cindy Ray Hale write because she is a great author of so many great books!!!!
November 10, 2021
I've read a lot of books written by Cindy Ray Hale; she is one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.
This is the sixth book in the Maple Creek Sweet Romance Series; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Carrington & Edward; she’s an art museum director trying to raise money to save the art museum that means so much to her father. Prince Edward is a painter that’s in hiding because he’s the heir to the throne and his brother has plotted to kill him.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the sixth book in the Maple Creek Sweet Romance Series; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Carrington & Edward; she’s an art museum director trying to raise money to save the art museum that means so much to her father. Prince Edward is a painter that’s in hiding because he’s the heir to the throne and his brother has plotted to kill him.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2021
The next book in Cindy Ray Hale's Maple Creek series and it's a good one. Carrington runs the museum in Maple Creek. Edward has come to study art under her father. Love this series, they are great books that you can't put down. Carrington and Edward are wonderful main characters. They have great chemistry and loved their bantering. Nice to catch up with past residents. Can't wait for the next book.
I was given this advanced copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was given this advanced copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2021
Like the other books in this series, this book contained sweet lead characters with lots of chemistry, and a small town chock full of fun people who care for them-and some who are destined to be in their business. This one had a little more suspense in it. I can be picky about stories with royals, but this one was done well. Edward was quite the leading man. I enjoyed how everything came together to save the art museum. The epilogue was super sweet! I would definitely recommend the read.
November 25, 2021
This book is super awesome. I loved Edward and Carington. As a couple they were super sweet. It is nice to see a hero who is royalty that is a complete art nerd. I loved the respect for art this book had. Also, there is tons of sweet moments. I also enjoyed the tender moments and the relationship between Carrington and her father. They have some of the best father daughter relationship moments. I highly recommend this book. It is sweet and has a lovely bit of suspense.
July 16, 2024
A cute and quick read
Who can turn down a romantic couple/woman falls in love with man/man is future king book? I had to do it. As far as comedy, I didn’t find too much that was funny, as in, I was never laughing out loud, but the story was a fast read and had some fun and quirky ups and downs. I didn’t realize this was the 7th in a series either. It was a good stand-alone book and predictable. Yet, sometimes that’s just what one needs for a rainy afternoon.
Who can turn down a romantic couple/woman falls in love with man/man is future king book? I had to do it. As far as comedy, I didn’t find too much that was funny, as in, I was never laughing out loud, but the story was a fast read and had some fun and quirky ups and downs. I didn’t realize this was the 7th in a series either. It was a good stand-alone book and predictable. Yet, sometimes that’s just what one needs for a rainy afternoon.
November 8, 2021
Carrington and Edwards story is a great addition to the Maple Creek series. So love these small town romances. Enjoy the tale of how Prince Edward only wants to do his art comes to a small town and finds Carrington, the daughter of the artist he wants to apprentice with. No matter if your a prince or a small town girl never give up on love or let your head overrule your heart.
March 20, 2025
The story was exciting without being overwhelming. There was danger with little angst. There were a few light moments, too, but it was mostly a sweet small-town romance.
The characters were relatable and realistic in their strengths and insecurities.
This is the first book I've read by this author, which surprises me since I've been buying her books for years.
The characters were relatable and realistic in their strengths and insecurities.
This is the first book I've read by this author, which surprises me since I've been buying her books for years.
November 4, 2021
I love both the incognito and Royal tropes and I love how those were blended together in a small town. I was instantly hooked with this book. And I loved the art angle.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 4, 2021
This is a sweet royal/small town romance.. I loved it! It is cute and romantic, with lovable characters and a fun storyline..
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2021
Edward is hiding away in Maple Creek because his brother is trying to kill him, to prevent him taking the throne when their father dies.
Carrington runs the art museum for her father, it's losing money but he won't let her run any fundraisers, and the roof leaks.
Edward is in town to learn from Richard, Carrington's father, he's an artist and wants to improve, he's wary of his feelings for Carrington and what she knows about him, after his last girlfriend.
Another great read from Cindy.
Carrington runs the art museum for her father, it's losing money but he won't let her run any fundraisers, and the roof leaks.
Edward is in town to learn from Richard, Carrington's father, he's an artist and wants to improve, he's wary of his feelings for Carrington and what she knows about him, after his last girlfriend.
Another great read from Cindy.
November 9, 2021
This story was adorable. I loved Carrington and Edwards story, their chemistry was palpable. Edward wanted to learn from an amazing artist and learned a lot about not only art but about love. Great, clean and cute read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
November 9, 2021
The book is a good, and enjoyable sweet small town romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2021
Her Prince’s Secret Past
This is a modern day fairytale type of story. I was so glad Carrington has finally gotten her story. Will the Prince be able to survive his brothers rage to be able to give her the happy ever after she deserves?
This is a modern day fairytale type of story. I was so glad Carrington has finally gotten her story. Will the Prince be able to survive his brothers rage to be able to give her the happy ever after she deserves?
August 9, 2022
Great story
A great story with some intrigue. She has no idea who he was really, but enjoyed his company.
He loved her art as well as learning all he could from her father.
A clean story
A great story with some intrigue. She has no idea who he was really, but enjoyed his company.
He loved her art as well as learning all he could from her father.
A clean story
August 1, 2024
lots of secrets
He is the crown prince who is in danger of being killed by his younger brother. So he left his country for small town America to be tutored in art by a Master. When he is found, life changes again
He is the crown prince who is in danger of being killed by his younger brother. So he left his country for small town America to be tutored in art by a Master. When he is found, life changes again
January 7, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. Edward and Carrington were so sweet and perfect together. I love the secret prince aspect. The mystery of who was after him and why kept me glued to the story from start to end. What a lovely story!
Zero swearing
Closed door
Zero swearing
Closed door
February 8, 2025
very sweet like a fairy tale
The author has written a contemporary fairy tale set in VA. It’s a wonderful escape read for anyone who wants to read a clean, wholesome yet romantic story.
The author has written a contemporary fairy tale set in VA. It’s a wonderful escape read for anyone who wants to read a clean, wholesome yet romantic story.
November 9, 2021
This was a delightful tale! I enjoyed learning about our MCs and what brought them together, the obstacles they had to overcome individually and together.
November 10, 2021
Loved this story! Sucked me in right away! Story line and character development were very good! Chemistry between Carrington and Edward, oh my! So good! very exciting end!! Really great book!
November 10, 2021
Enjoyed the story line. Good characters. Good clean romance.
I received an advance ebook and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received an advance ebook and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
November 13, 2021
This was my favorite book in the Maple Creek Sweet Romance series. Carrington and Edward are great lead characters. This is a fairy tale type story and a HEA.
November 15, 2021
A good clean romance: I enjoyed reading and would recommend.
December 3, 2021
Royally Romantic Love Story
This is a great idea as well as loveable love story with interesting and special characters that will definitely have you falling in love all over again.
This is a great idea as well as loveable love story with interesting and special characters that will definitely have you falling in love all over again.
May 23, 2025
meh. kinda lame
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews