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The Royals Upstairs
He’s the royal bodyguard. She’s the royal nanny. The annoyingly hot attraction that simmers between them—that’s a royal pain.
James Hunter has made a tactical error. His new role as protection officer to Prince Magnus of Norway was supposed to be an exciting change. Instead he’s marooned on a royal estate in the middle of nowhere charged with chasing after demon children and dodging the machinations of meddling staff. And the crowning jewel in this little drama—the children’s nanny is none other than Laila Bruset. The woman whose heart he broke. The woman who still holds his.
When Laila took the job as a nanny for the Norwegian royal children in order to be closer to her ailing grandmother in Oslo, the last thing she expected was to have her life turned upside down—again. But as much as James gets on her nerves, he's also getting under her skin, and the tension between them sizzles just as devastatingly as before.
As undeniable sparks turn James and Laila’s battle royal into a more serious game of hearts, nanny and bodyguard will have to decide just how much they’re willing to risk for a second chance at love.
James Hunter has made a tactical error. His new role as protection officer to Prince Magnus of Norway was supposed to be an exciting change. Instead he’s marooned on a royal estate in the middle of nowhere charged with chasing after demon children and dodging the machinations of meddling staff. And the crowning jewel in this little drama—the children’s nanny is none other than Laila Bruset. The woman whose heart he broke. The woman who still holds his.
When Laila took the job as a nanny for the Norwegian royal children in order to be closer to her ailing grandmother in Oslo, the last thing she expected was to have her life turned upside down—again. But as much as James gets on her nerves, he's also getting under her skin, and the tension between them sizzles just as devastatingly as before.
As undeniable sparks turn James and Laila’s battle royal into a more serious game of hearts, nanny and bodyguard will have to decide just how much they’re willing to risk for a second chance at love.
352 pages, Paperback
Published September 10, 2024
137 people are currently reading
14868 people want to read
About the author
Karina Halle
122 books19.6k followersKarina Halle is a screenwriter, former music & travel journalist, and the New York Times bestselling author of Grave Matter, Blood Orange, & The Royals Next Door, as well as 80 other romances across all sub-genres, ranging from spicy rom coms to gothic horror and dark fantasy. Needless to say, whatever you're into, she's probably written an HEA for it.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 307 reviews
March 20, 2024
Becoming a dedicated fan of Karina Halle was inevitable after immersing myself in her captivating "Experiment in Terror" paranormal romance series and thoroughly enjoying her standalone works. Her talent as an author is undeniable. If you found pleasure in "Wild Heir," brace yourself for another treat because Crown Prince Magnus of Norway and his beloved wife, Ella, grace the pages of this tale as supporting characters.
Enter Laila Burset, the compassionate nanny from Liechtenstein in her late twenties, and James Hunter, the charming Scottish bodyguard, hired to care for Magnus and Ella's family and their two young boys. The allure of this story lies not only in its superb characterizations but also in its execution of the enemies-to-lovers trope, along with elements like forced proximity and workplace romance.
From the moment I met Laila, an introverted, bookish soul with a heart of gold, I found myself rooting for her. However, my feelings toward James were more complicated, given his past actions that hurt Laila deeply. Yet, his Scottish charm, playful demeanor, and vulnerability gradually won me over, despite my belief that he could have done more to redeem himself.
The narrative centers around James, newly appointed to protect Princess Ella and her sons, with the added complication of Laila, his former lover from his time in England, now tasked with caring for the children. Their shared history and unresolved feelings create tension as they navigate their professional duties amidst sparks of undeniable chemistry, all while the Norwegian royals play matchmakers.
In summary, this romance is a blend of intense passion and heartwarming moments, with standout characters like Prince Magnus and Lady Jane stealing the spotlight. I recommend delving into "Nordic Royals" and "Royals Next Door" to gain a deeper understanding of the characters, although this book can be enjoyed as a standalone. Karina Halle expertly weaves enough backstory into the narrative to keep readers engaged.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for graciously providing me with a digital review copy of this delightful book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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Enter Laila Burset, the compassionate nanny from Liechtenstein in her late twenties, and James Hunter, the charming Scottish bodyguard, hired to care for Magnus and Ella's family and their two young boys. The allure of this story lies not only in its superb characterizations but also in its execution of the enemies-to-lovers trope, along with elements like forced proximity and workplace romance.
From the moment I met Laila, an introverted, bookish soul with a heart of gold, I found myself rooting for her. However, my feelings toward James were more complicated, given his past actions that hurt Laila deeply. Yet, his Scottish charm, playful demeanor, and vulnerability gradually won me over, despite my belief that he could have done more to redeem himself.
The narrative centers around James, newly appointed to protect Princess Ella and her sons, with the added complication of Laila, his former lover from his time in England, now tasked with caring for the children. Their shared history and unresolved feelings create tension as they navigate their professional duties amidst sparks of undeniable chemistry, all while the Norwegian royals play matchmakers.
In summary, this romance is a blend of intense passion and heartwarming moments, with standout characters like Prince Magnus and Lady Jane stealing the spotlight. I recommend delving into "Nordic Royals" and "Royals Next Door" to gain a deeper understanding of the characters, although this book can be enjoyed as a standalone. Karina Halle expertly weaves enough backstory into the narrative to keep readers engaged.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for graciously providing me with a digital review copy of this delightful book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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September 15, 2024
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but "The Royals Upstairs" left me feeling pretty underwhelmed.
James Hunter's transition to becoming Prince Magnus of Norway's protection officer was supposed to be a thrilling change of pace. Instead, he finds himself stuck in the middle of nowhere, dealing with unruly children and the meddling of palace staff. And to add insult to injury, his ex-flame Laila Bruset is now the nanny for the royal children, stirring up old emotions.
While the premise had potential, the execution fell flat for me. The characters lacked depth, and the storyline felt shallow. Sure, it was nice to read about the Norwegian royal family for a change, but that novelty wore off pretty quickly.
Speaking of characters, Laila was the only one I found remotely interesting. Unfortunately, James came across as pushy and aggressive, which was a major turn-off. In a modern romance, that kind of behavior just doesn't fly for me. And don't even get me started on the lackluster chemistry between them—it felt forced and uninspired.
I get that romance novels often have their fair share of steamy scenes, but in this case, it felt like there was more focus on bedroom activity than actual plot development. I prefer a little substance with my romance.
"The Royals Upstairs" failed to deliver the swoon-worthy romance I was hoping for. With shallow characters, lack of chemistry, and a questionable male protagonist, it's safe to say this one missed the mark for me.
James Hunter's transition to becoming Prince Magnus of Norway's protection officer was supposed to be a thrilling change of pace. Instead, he finds himself stuck in the middle of nowhere, dealing with unruly children and the meddling of palace staff. And to add insult to injury, his ex-flame Laila Bruset is now the nanny for the royal children, stirring up old emotions.
While the premise had potential, the execution fell flat for me. The characters lacked depth, and the storyline felt shallow. Sure, it was nice to read about the Norwegian royal family for a change, but that novelty wore off pretty quickly.
Speaking of characters, Laila was the only one I found remotely interesting. Unfortunately, James came across as pushy and aggressive, which was a major turn-off. In a modern romance, that kind of behavior just doesn't fly for me. And don't even get me started on the lackluster chemistry between them—it felt forced and uninspired.
I get that romance novels often have their fair share of steamy scenes, but in this case, it felt like there was more focus on bedroom activity than actual plot development. I prefer a little substance with my romance.
"The Royals Upstairs" failed to deliver the swoon-worthy romance I was hoping for. With shallow characters, lack of chemistry, and a questionable male protagonist, it's safe to say this one missed the mark for me.
September 15, 2024
A second chance romance between a royal bodyguard and a royal nanny. Laila and James had an affair years ago when working for monarchs Eddie and Monica, but it ended poorly when Laila admitted her feelings and James freaked out. Now years later, they find themselves working for Norweigian royals Magnus and Ella and their two children Bjorn and Tor. There's still an immediate spark between the two of them, but can Laila ever really trust James again?
Karina Halle is an author that never disappoints in her writing and her trademark compelling writing style still stands out in this book. My favorite parts of this book were Laila and her grandmother, it was really sweet and pulled at my heartstrings. The children were also really fun to read along with. I never really saw why Laila and James liked one another other than pure attraction: I would have liked more development of their relationship a level more than sexual chemistry. Overall really glad this book wa published and happy to read more by Karina in the future.
ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley
Karina Halle is an author that never disappoints in her writing and her trademark compelling writing style still stands out in this book. My favorite parts of this book were Laila and her grandmother, it was really sweet and pulled at my heartstrings. The children were also really fun to read along with. I never really saw why Laila and James liked one another other than pure attraction: I would have liked more development of their relationship a level more than sexual chemistry. Overall really glad this book wa published and happy to read more by Karina in the future.
ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley
July 7, 2024
3.5 STARS!
~~~
This book seems to be a spin-off from a book previously published, but I had no difficulty getting into the flow. The only thing is the two main characters knew each other prior, and I’m not sure how much they appeared in the other book.
The story has a great setting as we are treated to the Nordic freeze. We also meet those they serve with the Prince of Norway and staff. Not to mention his bratty-well, one of them-children.
Halle spent a lot of time on the development of the main characters separately but I was a little sad. She really didn’t have a lot of time with them one-on-one.
We get snippets of the past where they had a relationship in the prior book and we understand that they both cared for each other. But a lot of their conversation is through a wall and interactions during their day while working.
Both are stubborn and in some ways, very closed off from letting anybody in, including each other. That is a bit frustrating for the reader because this whole story is a build-up, yet they’re not building in a true connection between each other until the very end.
The Royals Upstairs is sweet, but it’s also sad in many ways. We do get quite a bit of steam, but there is a lot of crazy and super messy stuff to go through as well.
Overall, it’s an enjoyable story with some laughs, some spice, some working through to the second chance, and a lovely HEA that was a long time coming.
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-royals-u...
~~~
This book seems to be a spin-off from a book previously published, but I had no difficulty getting into the flow. The only thing is the two main characters knew each other prior, and I’m not sure how much they appeared in the other book.
The story has a great setting as we are treated to the Nordic freeze. We also meet those they serve with the Prince of Norway and staff. Not to mention his bratty-well, one of them-children.
Halle spent a lot of time on the development of the main characters separately but I was a little sad. She really didn’t have a lot of time with them one-on-one.
We get snippets of the past where they had a relationship in the prior book and we understand that they both cared for each other. But a lot of their conversation is through a wall and interactions during their day while working.
Both are stubborn and in some ways, very closed off from letting anybody in, including each other. That is a bit frustrating for the reader because this whole story is a build-up, yet they’re not building in a true connection between each other until the very end.
The Royals Upstairs is sweet, but it’s also sad in many ways. We do get quite a bit of steam, but there is a lot of crazy and super messy stuff to go through as well.
Overall, it’s an enjoyable story with some laughs, some spice, some working through to the second chance, and a lovely HEA that was a long time coming.
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-royals-u...
April 24, 2024
I'll start this by saying I was so excited to read another book by this author after her fun "The Royals Next Door" which had me laughing and swooning. Unfortunately, The Royals Upstairs was very underwhelming. I didn't connect to anyone. The romance fell flat and the MMC was pushy and aggressive and I hated that. I'm not sure if there just was enough plot?
September 22, 2024
I freaking loved Karina Halle's Nordic Royals series so I was really excited when I realized she had written another series with royals. I received an ARC copy from Berkley and Netgalley.
It was so good to reconnect with Magnus and Ella from new point of views but unfortunately they're all I wanted to focus on. The FMC (the nanny) and the MMC (the bodyguard) felt like boring side characters instead of the ones who were in the spotlight. My mind kept straying back to the Wild Heir and thinking about Magnus and Ella.
Second chance romances are not normally my favorite so there has to be a ton of groveling for me and this one just fell flat. I did like that Laila (the FMC) didn't immediately take the MMC back every time he turned on the charm. The plot felt non-existent and I unfortunately just to push myself through this one. I felt like Laila's character was well fleshed out but James (the MMC) could have been replaced with any other leading book man. He had a very interesting back story but I feel like it wasn't highlighted enough to make him interesting.
I love Karina Halle so I'm thinking this series was not for me.
It was so good to reconnect with Magnus and Ella from new point of views but unfortunately they're all I wanted to focus on. The FMC (the nanny) and the MMC (the bodyguard) felt like boring side characters instead of the ones who were in the spotlight. My mind kept straying back to the Wild Heir and thinking about Magnus and Ella.
Second chance romances are not normally my favorite so there has to be a ton of groveling for me and this one just fell flat. I did like that Laila (the FMC) didn't immediately take the MMC back every time he turned on the charm. The plot felt non-existent and I unfortunately just to push myself through this one. I felt like Laila's character was well fleshed out but James (the MMC) could have been replaced with any other leading book man. He had a very interesting back story but I feel like it wasn't highlighted enough to make him interesting.
I love Karina Halle so I'm thinking this series was not for me.
September 9, 2024
A royals-adjacent second chance romance seems like something I would totally eat up. And I mean, technically I did, but I did not have the best time.
Second chance romances are near and dear to me. I love the opportunity for groveling and pining. But this was entirely too insta-lust/lovey for me. Also tbh the mmc kinda gave me the ick. The two of them have basically no relationship development outside of the smut. Also, plot… uh, where was it?
For taking it for what it is (read: a smutty romance), it was fine. I read it fairly quickly and def liked it more than the first book.
Thank you to NetGalley and berkley romance for an arc.
Second chance romances are near and dear to me. I love the opportunity for groveling and pining. But this was entirely too insta-lust/lovey for me. Also tbh the mmc kinda gave me the ick. The two of them have basically no relationship development outside of the smut. Also, plot… uh, where was it?
For taking it for what it is (read: a smutty romance), it was fine. I read it fairly quickly and def liked it more than the first book.
Thank you to NetGalley and berkley romance for an arc.
October 4, 2024
For a bodyguard who's super observant (we're told this about a million times), James doesn't really know how to read a room. Early on in this story, he's being flirty and pushy and sexual with Laila. When she's emotional about her grandmother. She is clearly sad and distraught. Like, bro, put your Dick away. Homegirl's about to lose it crying. She doesn't need you groping her. 😒
The whole book sort of feels this way, to be honest. Laila's story is kind of heavy on the grief. This almost doesn't feel like a romance, given how grave and serious the events in the book are. And even when she asks him for physical stuff, it doesn't feel right knowing that she, at least in the past, cares for him more than he does for her. This whole story just had a layer of slimy ick all over it between how one note James is with his big dick and his lusty eyes and the completely unsexy, dying grandmother arc from Laila... I don't know, man.This just didn't do it for me.
Also, Magnus and his wife felt different from their book. Well, Ella definitely did, and their son Bjorn? Straight-up demon possessed little Helion. I don't typically enjoy kids in my romance books, and even though these kids aren't either of the MC's, they're in this story enough to make me legitimately hate them. (Tor is fine; he's not really around enough to be an issue, but the other little boy... Jesus saved me.) Given Magnus's books story arc with him discovering he's got ADHD, one would think the parents would notice the exact same issues with their child. But no, let's just let him be a pain in the ass for 80% of the book. Great job 👍.
I really wanted to like this book. I enjoyed Halle's Nordic Kings series a lot and was excited to return to this world. Maybe my expectations were too high, but I really didn't connect with these characters or the storyline.
There are some really nice moments. Some really great discussions surrounding grief. But as far as the ROMANCE...it just fell flat for me.
The whole book sort of feels this way, to be honest. Laila's story is kind of heavy on the grief. This almost doesn't feel like a romance, given how grave and serious the events in the book are. And even when she asks him for physical stuff, it doesn't feel right knowing that she, at least in the past, cares for him more than he does for her. This whole story just had a layer of slimy ick all over it between how one note James is with his big dick and his lusty eyes and the completely unsexy, dying grandmother arc from Laila... I don't know, man.This just didn't do it for me.
Also, Magnus and his wife felt different from their book. Well, Ella definitely did, and their son Bjorn? Straight-up demon possessed little Helion. I don't typically enjoy kids in my romance books, and even though these kids aren't either of the MC's, they're in this story enough to make me legitimately hate them. (Tor is fine; he's not really around enough to be an issue, but the other little boy... Jesus saved me.) Given Magnus's books story arc with him discovering he's got ADHD, one would think the parents would notice the exact same issues with their child. But no, let's just let him be a pain in the ass for 80% of the book. Great job 👍.
I really wanted to like this book. I enjoyed Halle's Nordic Kings series a lot and was excited to return to this world. Maybe my expectations were too high, but I really didn't connect with these characters or the storyline.
There are some really nice moments. Some really great discussions surrounding grief. But as far as the ROMANCE...it just fell flat for me.
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September 28, 20240🌟
I hate it.
Seriously like ......that was the plot😫.I started it yesterday evening and finished by midnight. Simply I got bored and skimmed 40% 🥱😴to make sure am not left out any good part but it's the worst.
How long are we gonna stuck with the same old boring plotlines and characters.
Such a great start to my weekend😮💨
I hate it.
Seriously like ......that was the plot😫.I started it yesterday evening and finished by midnight. Simply I got bored and skimmed 40% 🥱😴to make sure am not left out any good part but it's the worst.
How long are we gonna stuck with the same old boring plotlines and characters.
Such a great start to my weekend😮💨
September 29, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
This was a cute read with quite a bit of angst actually. There’s also some grief involved. The author connected two of her previous books, The Norwegian Heir and The Royals Next Door and it worked. I really enjoyed seeing previous couples in this read as well as the newest couple, Laila and James. James is the bodyguard to the Norwegian crown prince and his family and Laila is the nanny to their children. It takes place in Norway for the most part. This was good but maybe not quite as good as the others mentioned. Not that it was bad, just not as good. I’m a fan of the author and I’ve been reading her books since she began writing her horror series that I, to this day, loved. It was a good and very adult read for contemporary romance readers.
This was a cute read with quite a bit of angst actually. There’s also some grief involved. The author connected two of her previous books, The Norwegian Heir and The Royals Next Door and it worked. I really enjoyed seeing previous couples in this read as well as the newest couple, Laila and James. James is the bodyguard to the Norwegian crown prince and his family and Laila is the nanny to their children. It takes place in Norway for the most part. This was good but maybe not quite as good as the others mentioned. Not that it was bad, just not as good. I’m a fan of the author and I’ve been reading her books since she began writing her horror series that I, to this day, loved. It was a good and very adult read for contemporary romance readers.
September 6, 2024
3.5 rounded up
This quasi royal romance between the Nanny and the bodyguard was SPICY!! But I was totally here for that. I also enjoyed that it was a second chance, dual POV story with emotional depth and an interesting Norwegian setting. Good on audio and set in the same universe as the author's The royals next door. Recommended for fans of Jenny Holiday's Royals series. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
This quasi royal romance between the Nanny and the bodyguard was SPICY!! But I was totally here for that. I also enjoyed that it was a second chance, dual POV story with emotional depth and an interesting Norwegian setting. Good on audio and set in the same universe as the author's The royals next door. Recommended for fans of Jenny Holiday's Royals series. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
September 1, 2024
I’m new to Karina Halle, so I wasn’t sure what I was getting into with this book, but it was a lot of fun!
Second chance romances are not always my jam. In fact, I really need to be sold on why they are going to work, and Karina did just that in this book. Everything was laid out and well explained to where things made sense. I adored Laila, she was such a great character. I mean what bookish introvert isn’t going to love her? Certainly not any I know! James was a little bit of a harder sell, he was a bit meh, but then he did come through and I found myself really liking him as well. The tension and angst between them was great and palatable. There ended up being so many heartwarming and tender moments throughout the book and their chemistry just shined through the pages.
This is a standalone book, however, I found myself wishing that I would have read the other two books, Nordic Royals and Royals Next Door just to have had some more time with the characters. I do think that Karina did a nice job laying out the characters and explaining them though, so I didn’t feel lost, which is always appreciated.
Thank you to @berkleypub @berkleyromance and @authorhalle as well as @netgalley for this e-arc. All thoughts are my own.
Second chance romances are not always my jam. In fact, I really need to be sold on why they are going to work, and Karina did just that in this book. Everything was laid out and well explained to where things made sense. I adored Laila, she was such a great character. I mean what bookish introvert isn’t going to love her? Certainly not any I know! James was a little bit of a harder sell, he was a bit meh, but then he did come through and I found myself really liking him as well. The tension and angst between them was great and palatable. There ended up being so many heartwarming and tender moments throughout the book and their chemistry just shined through the pages.
This is a standalone book, however, I found myself wishing that I would have read the other two books, Nordic Royals and Royals Next Door just to have had some more time with the characters. I do think that Karina did a nice job laying out the characters and explaining them though, so I didn’t feel lost, which is always appreciated.
Thank you to @berkleypub @berkleyromance and @authorhalle as well as @netgalley for this e-arc. All thoughts are my own.
September 10, 2024
Leila + James
A few years ago, when they both worked for the british royal family, they started a little affair. And it didn't end well.
And now they're working together again - this time for the norwegian royals.
Still hating each other - or rather Leila hating James for how things ended. Add two very diffucult children and the snowy remoteness of the estate ... it won't be easy to get to our happily ever after.
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN ....
══════════════════
That was adorable.
I loved the snowy locations and all the norwegian sights and sounds and tastes and all the things. We never get to go to Norway as romance readers. I loved it all.
And of course we remember Magnus!
And his mini-me Björn is just as fun and challenging.
And it's cute to see how Laila and James are fighting against and for that happy end.
Cute royal-adjacent romance.
Would love to see it on TV one day.
THE ROYALS UPSTAIRS was a sweet + funny + sparky + sexy love story in a beautiful snowy setting. Run to your nearest book dealer for your own James - this one is MINE!!
CLICK >HERE< TO PREORDER THE BOOK if you can’t click on the buy-links below!
💜
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August 26, 2024
I was pleasantly surprised by this! I think Karina does a wonderful job at addressing grief, emotional trauma, and opening yourself up to love. I also, as usual, loved how and when the spicy scenes occurred. Overall this was a really enjoyable read! I do think it could have been shorter, there were parts that dragged a bit for me.
I am definitely interested in trying the series this is a spin off of though! I had no idea it was until I finished haha.
*huge thanks to PRH Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest review*
I am definitely interested in trying the series this is a spin off of though! I had no idea it was until I finished haha.
*huge thanks to PRH Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest review*
September 15, 2024
A fun little Royal nanny x royal bodyguard romance for the fall & winter!!! And I love a good second chance romance.
September 8, 2024
This book was a fast, fun read. I love a good second chance romance, especially when we get dual POV and dual timeline to learn where everything went wrong the first time, and to see how much the main characters are secretly pining for each other. This book had plenty of that! There was tension, angst, and chemistry, but it was also tender, sweet, and heartwarming. It was a cute read that made me smile, and I had a great time with it.
👑
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
👑
Read if you like:
▫️second chance
▫️enemies to lovers
▫️forced proximity
▫️work romance
▫️bodyguard x nanny
▫️dual POV
▫️dual timeline
👑
Thank you to Berkley, NetGalley, and Karina Halle for the ARC. I received an advanced copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
👑
Connect With Me
https://instagram.com/shanisshelves?i...
https://www.tiktok.com/@shanisshelves
👑
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
👑
Read if you like:
▫️second chance
▫️enemies to lovers
▫️forced proximity
▫️work romance
▫️bodyguard x nanny
▫️dual POV
▫️dual timeline
👑
Thank you to Berkley, NetGalley, and Karina Halle for the ARC. I received an advanced copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
👑
Connect With Me
https://instagram.com/shanisshelves?i...
https://www.tiktok.com/@shanisshelves
July 7, 2024
I was very excited to read The Royals Upstairs after loving the first book of the series. This installment was a sweet, second chance romance between exes James and Laila. I found James to be very sweet and caring towards Laila.
However, I found a few of the royal characters to be rather unrealistic and uncaring about their own son and staff. Bjron was a nightmare, and his troublemaking antics were getting on my nerves.
While not as enjoyable as the first novel, I still enjoyed reading the Royals Upstairs
I would like to thank the publishers via Netgalley for allowing me an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
However, I found a few of the royal characters to be rather unrealistic and uncaring about their own son and staff. Bjron was a nightmare, and his troublemaking antics were getting on my nerves.
While not as enjoyable as the first novel, I still enjoyed reading the Royals Upstairs
I would like to thank the publishers via Netgalley for allowing me an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
December 15, 2024
Protagonists were weird losers and also stupid
November 20, 2024
3.5 stars.
I'm not a huge second chance romance fan, but I AM a Karina Halle fan and she never steers me wrong. Plus, mix it all in with Royals? Yes, please.
The Royals Upstairs centers around two "everyday" people that work for the Royals. James is hired on for head bodyguard of Magnus the Crown Prince of Norway (and if his name looks familiar to Halle fans, he was a main character in her book The Wild Heir). But when he arrives, he notices the nanny for their children is someone that he was once close to. Can they work together or will their pasts interfere?
I loved that we got to visit some past characters of Halle's. It was almost like a little nod to their HEA. James was an iffy character from the start. I liked his tough and gruffy exterior, but I really wanted to dig more into his inner thoughts. What made him go down the path he did? We got little pieces, but I feel like I would've benefitted connecting to him more with understanding his past relationship or maybe even his childhood. And then there's Laila. That woman was everything. I truly adored her right from the start. She had a huge heart not only for the kids she cared for, but also her family which was rather small. She seemed like an "everyday woman" and that made me be endeared to her even more. Her character and actions shined for me.
I decided to try this book as an audio and really liked the narrators and their accents. The production and dual POV added to each character and their chapters. We get alternating past chapters sprinkled in with the present which was much needed since this is a second chance romance. I still don't fully comprehend their past, but did appreciate things what happened in the present and liked the fact that Halle gave a realness not only to the MC's but also the supporting characters, including the children.
I did enjoy this book, but didn't love it. The pacing and story itself was well done, I just needed a little bit more from James in order to believe he could truly win Laila back. She deserved it all. WIth that said, I appreciated their HEA and loved the connection they had to the Royals.
If you enjoy "commoners" that work for a Royal family (nanny and bodyguard, respectively) with angst, forced proximity and second chance romance, this will be a book you'll enjoy.
I'm not a huge second chance romance fan, but I AM a Karina Halle fan and she never steers me wrong. Plus, mix it all in with Royals? Yes, please.
The Royals Upstairs centers around two "everyday" people that work for the Royals. James is hired on for head bodyguard of Magnus the Crown Prince of Norway (and if his name looks familiar to Halle fans, he was a main character in her book The Wild Heir). But when he arrives, he notices the nanny for their children is someone that he was once close to. Can they work together or will their pasts interfere?
I loved that we got to visit some past characters of Halle's. It was almost like a little nod to their HEA. James was an iffy character from the start. I liked his tough and gruffy exterior, but I really wanted to dig more into his inner thoughts. What made him go down the path he did? We got little pieces, but I feel like I would've benefitted connecting to him more with understanding his past relationship or maybe even his childhood. And then there's Laila. That woman was everything. I truly adored her right from the start. She had a huge heart not only for the kids she cared for, but also her family which was rather small. She seemed like an "everyday woman" and that made me be endeared to her even more. Her character and actions shined for me.
I decided to try this book as an audio and really liked the narrators and their accents. The production and dual POV added to each character and their chapters. We get alternating past chapters sprinkled in with the present which was much needed since this is a second chance romance. I still don't fully comprehend their past, but did appreciate things what happened in the present and liked the fact that Halle gave a realness not only to the MC's but also the supporting characters, including the children.
I did enjoy this book, but didn't love it. The pacing and story itself was well done, I just needed a little bit more from James in order to believe he could truly win Laila back. She deserved it all. WIth that said, I appreciated their HEA and loved the connection they had to the Royals.
If you enjoy "commoners" that work for a Royal family (nanny and bodyguard, respectively) with angst, forced proximity and second chance romance, this will be a book you'll enjoy.
October 13, 2024
GREAT second chance romance for Laila & James!!! Both were vulnerable for their own reasons, their upbringing, and their past history! The story was filled with funny and emotional scenes!! LOVED getting the scenes with Magnus, Ella, Ottar, Lady Jane, and of course Bjorn & Tor!!
LOVE Karina’s writing!! You are always transported! I felt like I was in the snowy mountains, in a small village, and witnessing the Northern Lights! Coincidentally we just had a showing here of the lights so it was even more special!
FAV QUOTE:
“…You’re not broken. You’re just a little bruised. We all are.” James Hunter <—-LOVED THIS!!!
LOVE Karina’s writing!! You are always transported! I felt like I was in the snowy mountains, in a small village, and witnessing the Northern Lights! Coincidentally we just had a showing here of the lights so it was even more special!
FAV QUOTE:
“…You’re not broken. You’re just a little bruised. We all are.” James Hunter <—-LOVED THIS!!!
December 27, 2025
Woah, I now have another new author I need to go read more of. Really really enjoyed this! I teared up, I laughed, and just an overall thoroughly fun read. Not only was the writing really good. But what I was expecting was a novel from James's point of view, I got one from mostly Laila's which was fine (though a good romance novel written all from a flawed man like James's would have been cool). However, it worked and the spicy scenes were really well done and steamy but not over the top which can happen.
September 2, 2024
This was super fun. I listened to the majority of Royals on audio and really liked the narration and the story that way. Both Laila and James had a tough history and a lot of stuff in their personal life. But their tension and connection was more than either could ignore. They had been in a secret relationship before and things went wrong. So this time their connection came with fear and hesitation. I loved the growth we saw in all of the characters. This series has a full cast of people that we love to know and it gave depth and life to this story
September 10, 2024
4⭐️
3.5🔥
Quick Breakdown
Second Chance
Royal Adjacent
Forced Proximity
She Falls First
Bed First, Feelings Later
Dual POV
Open Door - Moderate to High
Thank you @berkleyromance for the eARC & finished copy & @prhaudio for the gifted ALC #berkleypartner
The Royals Upstairs was a delightfully messy, royal adjacent, second chance romance between James & Laila, the nanny & bodyguard for the Crown Prince of Norway & his family. James & Laila know each other from years ago when they were both working for the British royal family in their respective roles. From the start, James & Laila had an inevitable attraction that bloomed into a friends w/ benefits situationship. Given the necessary isolation working with the royal family, it made sense that Laila grew feelings for James. But when she shared those feelings, commitment phobic James pushed Laila away & cut off their arraignment abruptly.
Years later, when forced into each others proximity again, the pair attempt to work together peacefully given their history. While initially bumpy, James turns into a real friend for Laila when she desperately needs one. Surprising no one, lines become blurry again. But now, James has matured with time. Will he acknowledge a good thing when it’s standing right in front of him?
The Royals Upstairs is a companion novel to Karina’s 2021 romance, The Royals Next Door. I was delighted to find The Royals Upstairs, in comparison, was told in dual POV & 𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗹𝘆 spicier than its counterpart. While it took me a bit to warm up to James, I appreciated his growth & found both him & Laila’s struggles very relatable. The secondary cast of characters are equally charming. It's even better on audio. Given it’s dual POV, we get not only the Norwegian accents, but James’s Scottish accent as well!
3.5🔥
Quick Breakdown
Second Chance
Royal Adjacent
Forced Proximity
She Falls First
Bed First, Feelings Later
Dual POV
Open Door - Moderate to High
Thank you @berkleyromance for the eARC & finished copy & @prhaudio for the gifted ALC #berkleypartner
The Royals Upstairs was a delightfully messy, royal adjacent, second chance romance between James & Laila, the nanny & bodyguard for the Crown Prince of Norway & his family. James & Laila know each other from years ago when they were both working for the British royal family in their respective roles. From the start, James & Laila had an inevitable attraction that bloomed into a friends w/ benefits situationship. Given the necessary isolation working with the royal family, it made sense that Laila grew feelings for James. But when she shared those feelings, commitment phobic James pushed Laila away & cut off their arraignment abruptly.
Years later, when forced into each others proximity again, the pair attempt to work together peacefully given their history. While initially bumpy, James turns into a real friend for Laila when she desperately needs one. Surprising no one, lines become blurry again. But now, James has matured with time. Will he acknowledge a good thing when it’s standing right in front of him?
The Royals Upstairs is a companion novel to Karina’s 2021 romance, The Royals Next Door. I was delighted to find The Royals Upstairs, in comparison, was told in dual POV & 𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗹𝘆 spicier than its counterpart. While it took me a bit to warm up to James, I appreciated his growth & found both him & Laila’s struggles very relatable. The secondary cast of characters are equally charming. It's even better on audio. Given it’s dual POV, we get not only the Norwegian accents, but James’s Scottish accent as well!
August 28, 2024
This book was a lot of fun. A true second chance romance but with a lot of back-and-forth and wishy-washy feelings. In fact, the MCs decision making skills were kind of all over the place. But they could decide on s3x, and boy, did they have a loooot of it.
July 7, 2024
I've been looking forward to this book's release since I first read The Royals Next Door a few years ago, and I was thrilled to receive an ARC from Netgalley!
While I did enjoy this book, I didn't connect with it in the same way that I did with its predecessor. I reread The Royals Next Door before diving into The Royals Upstairs, and I found the characters in the first book to be more likeable and easier to root for. Their romance felt more real to me and they had interesting, compelling personal lives in addition to their romance.
Unfortunately, The Royals Upstairs lacked some of those components that made the first book so compelling. First, our protagonists, Laila and James, didn't have much personality or plot outside of their romance. James had somewhat of a backstory in his divorce, but we didn't delve into that as much as I would've liked, and it was hinted at that there was more going on there with his mental health, but we never explored it. With Laila, she had her grandmother's health, but that felt like a detail that easily could've been lifted out and not affected the story, which means it wasn't integrated enough.
The way Halle writes about grief makes it evident that it's something she has a deep connection with--something made even clearer if you read the acknowledgments of this book--but I know how difficult it can be to write about a topic that's too close to your heart, and this may have unfortunately been one of those cases where because you know the topic so well, there are some details that fall through the cracks.
I also thought the way James's character in particular evolved by the end of the book wasn't particularly believable. The entire reason he left Canada was because he couldn't stand small-town life and the loneliness of it all, but he adjusts to being in this similarly secluded area rather quickly and, once he falls for Laila, changes from being city-oriented to being happy to settle down in a small town. I'm not saying that is completely unrealistic, but it happened so quickly and conveniently that it didn't feel very believable.
Also, both Laila and James express explicitly how they don't want children--something I actually found refreshing--but by the end, James was talking about wanting to "be the father of Laila's children." It's okay for characters, and people, to not want kids, and for once, I wish characters would stick to their choices instead of changing their mind as soon as they fall in love.
I also don't think we got to spend enough time with the supporting cast of characters to become invested in them, with the exception of Lady Jane. Because I know what Halle is capable of, and because I just finished reading it in the previous book, I couldn't help but want more.
Overall, I felt pretty disconnected from the characters and the emotions they were supposed to be feeling, which wasn't what I expected at all from this book. Especially given some of the heavier topics discussed in it.
I do want to end this review by saying that I did enjoy this book overall. It was a fun, sweet story that was quick to read and shut my brain off for a few hours. Unfortunately, I just couldn't help myself from comparing it to the previous book, which was to this book's detriment.
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
While I did enjoy this book, I didn't connect with it in the same way that I did with its predecessor. I reread The Royals Next Door before diving into The Royals Upstairs, and I found the characters in the first book to be more likeable and easier to root for. Their romance felt more real to me and they had interesting, compelling personal lives in addition to their romance.
Unfortunately, The Royals Upstairs lacked some of those components that made the first book so compelling. First, our protagonists, Laila and James, didn't have much personality or plot outside of their romance. James had somewhat of a backstory in his divorce, but we didn't delve into that as much as I would've liked, and it was hinted at that there was more going on there with his mental health, but we never explored it. With Laila, she had her grandmother's health, but that felt like a detail that easily could've been lifted out and not affected the story, which means it wasn't integrated enough.
The way Halle writes about grief makes it evident that it's something she has a deep connection with--something made even clearer if you read the acknowledgments of this book--but I know how difficult it can be to write about a topic that's too close to your heart, and this may have unfortunately been one of those cases where because you know the topic so well, there are some details that fall through the cracks.
I also thought the way James's character in particular evolved by the end of the book wasn't particularly believable. The entire reason he left Canada was because he couldn't stand small-town life and the loneliness of it all, but he adjusts to being in this similarly secluded area rather quickly and, once he falls for Laila, changes from being city-oriented to being happy to settle down in a small town. I'm not saying that is completely unrealistic, but it happened so quickly and conveniently that it didn't feel very believable.
Also, both Laila and James express explicitly how they don't want children--something I actually found refreshing--but by the end, James was talking about wanting to "be the father of Laila's children." It's okay for characters, and people, to not want kids, and for once, I wish characters would stick to their choices instead of changing their mind as soon as they fall in love.
I also don't think we got to spend enough time with the supporting cast of characters to become invested in them, with the exception of Lady Jane. Because I know what Halle is capable of, and because I just finished reading it in the previous book, I couldn't help but want more.
Overall, I felt pretty disconnected from the characters and the emotions they were supposed to be feeling, which wasn't what I expected at all from this book. Especially given some of the heavier topics discussed in it.
I do want to end this review by saying that I did enjoy this book overall. It was a fun, sweet story that was quick to read and shut my brain off for a few hours. Unfortunately, I just couldn't help myself from comparing it to the previous book, which was to this book's detriment.
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2024
ughhh it's never that serious guys please just get together and stop your whining
August 20, 2024
Thank you Berkley for my copy! All thoughts are my own.
I LOVED The Royals Next Door back in 2021. I think it was one of my favorite books of the year! It was so fun and different and flowed so well. When I saw The Royals Upstairs, I was READY to get invested in another one of her world’s. Sadly, this book did not work for me. I don’t know if it was my mindset or the character’s chemistry, but I didn’t love it as much as The Royals Next Door. It was still an enjoyable, sexy read but not a new favorite.
Synopsis:
“James Hunter has made a tactical error. His new role as protection officer to Prince Magnus of Norway was supposed to be an exciting change. Instead he’s marooned on a royal estate in the middle of nowhere charged with chasing after demon children and dodging the machinations of meddling staff. And the crowning jewel in this little drama—the children’s nanny is none other than Laila Bruset. The woman whose heart he broke. The woman who still holds his.When Laila took the job as a nanny for the Norwegian royal children in order to be closer to her ailing grandmother in Oslo, the last thing she expected was to have her life turned upside down—again. But as much as James gets on her nerves, he's also getting under her skin, and the tension between them sizzles just as devastatingly as before.As undeniable sparks turn James and Laila’s battle royal into a more serious game of hearts, nanny and bodyguard will have to decide just how much they’re willing to risk for a second chance at love.” —NetGalley
What I Liked:
The Setting—I love a good book with royal characters but have never read one about the Norwegian monarchy! It was a nice change and a reminder to step outside my comfort zone.
The Characters—I really enjoyed all the characters and they kept me reading!
What Didn’t Work for Me:
The Chemistry—I didn’t connect with it at all, making it really hard for me to root for the characters to get and stay together.
The Structure—I loved the flashbacks and wish there had been more consistency with them!
The Tropes—I normally love a second chance romance, but I just didn’t feel it with these characters! I am so sad cause I LOVED The Royals Next Door!
Character Authenticity: 3/5 Spice Rating: 3/5 Overall Rating: 2.75/5
Content Warnings:
Death, dementia, grief
I LOVED The Royals Next Door back in 2021. I think it was one of my favorite books of the year! It was so fun and different and flowed so well. When I saw The Royals Upstairs, I was READY to get invested in another one of her world’s. Sadly, this book did not work for me. I don’t know if it was my mindset or the character’s chemistry, but I didn’t love it as much as The Royals Next Door. It was still an enjoyable, sexy read but not a new favorite.
Synopsis:
“James Hunter has made a tactical error. His new role as protection officer to Prince Magnus of Norway was supposed to be an exciting change. Instead he’s marooned on a royal estate in the middle of nowhere charged with chasing after demon children and dodging the machinations of meddling staff. And the crowning jewel in this little drama—the children’s nanny is none other than Laila Bruset. The woman whose heart he broke. The woman who still holds his.When Laila took the job as a nanny for the Norwegian royal children in order to be closer to her ailing grandmother in Oslo, the last thing she expected was to have her life turned upside down—again. But as much as James gets on her nerves, he's also getting under her skin, and the tension between them sizzles just as devastatingly as before.As undeniable sparks turn James and Laila’s battle royal into a more serious game of hearts, nanny and bodyguard will have to decide just how much they’re willing to risk for a second chance at love.” —NetGalley
What I Liked:
The Setting—I love a good book with royal characters but have never read one about the Norwegian monarchy! It was a nice change and a reminder to step outside my comfort zone.
The Characters—I really enjoyed all the characters and they kept me reading!
What Didn’t Work for Me:
The Chemistry—I didn’t connect with it at all, making it really hard for me to root for the characters to get and stay together.
The Structure—I loved the flashbacks and wish there had been more consistency with them!
The Tropes—I normally love a second chance romance, but I just didn’t feel it with these characters! I am so sad cause I LOVED The Royals Next Door!
Character Authenticity: 3/5 Spice Rating: 3/5 Overall Rating: 2.75/5
Content Warnings:
Death, dementia, grief
July 3, 2024
When James Hunter took a new role as protection officer to Prince Magnus of Norway, he was excited for the challenge and change that came along with it. However, when he arrives at the royal estate, nothing is as it should be. To make matters worse, he runs into the woman he never thought he'd see again; the woman whose heart he broke, Laila Bruset. With their jobs on the line, Laila and James must find a way to coexist with one another. However, the more time they spend with each other, the more sparks build between them. Will they risk it all for a second chance at love?
I thought this book was an okay read. I liked the plot and thought it started off strong and had really great potential. I enjoyed Laila and James' reunion. You could tell that despite the hard feelings, the chemistry was still there. I liked the push and pull between the two main characters, however, I will admit that I didn't really care for James. There was just something about him that rubbed me the wrong way. And I won't lie, I was hoping that this story would have a more royal flare to it. Don't get me wrong, there are definitely royals in this story, but since they weren't main characters, I was left wanting more.
Overall, I think this book will be a hit for some and a miss for others. For me, it was just okay.
*Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review this title.*
I thought this book was an okay read. I liked the plot and thought it started off strong and had really great potential. I enjoyed Laila and James' reunion. You could tell that despite the hard feelings, the chemistry was still there. I liked the push and pull between the two main characters, however, I will admit that I didn't really care for James. There was just something about him that rubbed me the wrong way. And I won't lie, I was hoping that this story would have a more royal flare to it. Don't get me wrong, there are definitely royals in this story, but since they weren't main characters, I was left wanting more.
Overall, I think this book will be a hit for some and a miss for others. For me, it was just okay.
*Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review this title.*
August 26, 2024
Well, I really enjoyed the Royals Nextdoor. This book has a sequel felt a little different. We met James and the first book as the second bodyguard to the prince of England. In this book, he’s starting a new job for the prince of Norway, where he runs into an old flame, Laila, who is the nanny. The two had a relationship and secret when they previously worked for the prince and princess of England and Laila is not excited to see James after the ways things ended between them.
Well, I really enjoyed getting to know James better and learning about Laila’s backstory, this one was more sexually driven than book one. It felt out of place to me that this introverted and shy Laila would flip a switch whenever it came to James and be craving him and filthy in a heartbeat. It felt out of character but maybe it was due to her feelings toward him? She’s been in love with him since they’re first hook up and despite trying to work with him and ignore her feelings, the two become involved again pretty quickly.
While I loved that James helped her through a hard time in her life, offering compassion and a friend, he was so abruptly cold when he realized he was feelings for Laila in the same way she felt for him. I get that they both have troubled pasts and trauma to overcome, it just seemed like a grown man could have expressed himself better rather than throw their relationship away not once, but twice.
Thank you for PHR audio for the ALC, and Netgalley for the eARC from Berkley!
Well, I really enjoyed getting to know James better and learning about Laila’s backstory, this one was more sexually driven than book one. It felt out of place to me that this introverted and shy Laila would flip a switch whenever it came to James and be craving him and filthy in a heartbeat. It felt out of character but maybe it was due to her feelings toward him? She’s been in love with him since they’re first hook up and despite trying to work with him and ignore her feelings, the two become involved again pretty quickly.
While I loved that James helped her through a hard time in her life, offering compassion and a friend, he was so abruptly cold when he realized he was feelings for Laila in the same way she felt for him. I get that they both have troubled pasts and trauma to overcome, it just seemed like a grown man could have expressed himself better rather than throw their relationship away not once, but twice.
Thank you for PHR audio for the ALC, and Netgalley for the eARC from Berkley!
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